Similar to the assessment process undertaken by Capita, the Ministry of Defence assigns a percentage level of disablement to each injury or disablement for which a War Pension is awarded. The overall War Pension award is apportioned according to the percentage disablement attributed to each injury or disablement, enabling a value to be assigned to the relevant disablement.
Under the Victims’ Payments Scheme, any War Pension payment that relates to the same permanent disablement for which a victims' payment is awarded, is taken into account when calculating entitlement, and deductions are applied. The deduction is based on the amount of injury-related benefit already being received in respect of the same disablement, thereby ensuring that duplicate compensation is not paid for the same injury.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053748%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502195"}},{"id":"502194","reference":"AQW 53747/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-05","answerBy":"2026-10-20","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the number of applications to the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme that have remained unresolved for (i) more than one year; (ii) more than two years; (iii) more than three years; and (iv) more than four years, including the principal reasons for applications remaining unresolved for these periods.","answerText":"Due to the varied and complex nature of applications under the Victims’ Payments Scheme, average timeframes do not provide a meaningful measure of overall Scheme performance. Consequently, this is not a key performance indicator that is monitored or recorded. Applications progress through the various stages of the Scheme at different rates.\n\nEach application is unique and the processing time can vary greatly. The progress of each application is dependent on the provision of supporting information from external organisations – something outside of the control of the Victims’ Payments Board. Given the historical nature of the subject matter, the passage of time makes certain records difficult or impossible to retrieve, the Victims’ Payments Board are often dealing with incidents that happened up to 50 years ago.\n\nIt is also important to highlight that approximately one in three applications have multiple incidents with varying levels of detail to set against the tests required by the legislation that underpins the Scheme. Each incident requires both verification of eligibility and evidence gathering and requires a separate determination, which can take a considerable amount of time to process.\n\nApplication processing includes but is not limited to, verification checks, evidence gathering, and a medical assessment. Delays also occur where an application form is incomplete, supporting evidence is missing or there are gaps in incident disclosure etc.\n\nAs of the 5 October 2026, 16,369 applications have been submitted to the Scheme, with 5,474 determinations made by the Board. Almost £164 million has paid to eligible applicants since the Scheme opened for applications on 31 August 2021.","answerHtml":"Due to the varied and complex nature of applications under the Victims’ Payments Scheme, average timeframes do not provide a meaningful measure of overall Scheme performance. Consequently, this is not a key performance indicator that is monitored or recorded. Applications progress through the various stages of the Scheme at different rates.
Each application is unique and the processing time can vary greatly. The progress of each application is dependent on the provision of supporting information from external organisations – something outside of the control of the Victims’ Payments Board. Given the historical nature of the subject matter, the passage of time makes certain records difficult or impossible to retrieve, the Victims’ Payments Board are often dealing with incidents that happened up to 50 years ago.
It is also important to highlight that approximately one in three applications have multiple incidents with varying levels of detail to set against the tests required by the legislation that underpins the Scheme. Each incident requires both verification of eligibility and evidence gathering and requires a separate determination, which can take a considerable amount of time to process.
Application processing includes but is not limited to, verification checks, evidence gathering, and a medical assessment. Delays also occur where an application form is incomplete, supporting evidence is missing or there are gaps in incident disclosure etc.
As of the 5 October 2026, 16,369 applications have been submitted to the Scheme, with 5,474 determinations made by the Board. Almost £164 million has paid to eligible applicants since the Scheme opened for applications on 31 August 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053747%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502194"}},{"id":"502193","reference":"AQW 53746/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-05","answerBy":"2026-10-20","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any safeguards that are in place to minimise the need for applicants with psychological injuries to repeatedly recount traumatic experiences during the assessment and determination of applications to the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme.","answerText":"The Victims’ Payments Board (VPB) and Capita have robust safeguarding measures in place and there is mandatory trauma-informed training that is delivered to all staff and Board members who have contact with applicants.\n\nThe Scheme recognises the difficulty applicants may face in recounting injuries and incidents. Where possible, Capita will conduct paper-based assessments, with the Clinical Assessor obtaining supporting evidence from relevant medical providers as necessary.\n\nWhere the evidence does not clearly establish a link and an independent psychological assessment is needed, the psychological Assessment Provider reviews all relevant information and safeguarding concerns to determine whether a paper-based diagnosis is sufficient or whether a face-to-face or virtual assessment is required.\n\nIf a further assessment is recommended, the VPB Administration team will seek the applicant’s consent and offer the option of a companion attending. If consent is not provided, the report will be completed using the available evidence.","answerHtml":"The Victims’ Payments Board (VPB) and Capita have robust safeguarding measures in place and there is mandatory trauma-informed training that is delivered to all staff and Board members who have contact with applicants.
The Scheme recognises the difficulty applicants may face in recounting injuries and incidents. Where possible, Capita will conduct paper-based assessments, with the Clinical Assessor obtaining supporting evidence from relevant medical providers as necessary.
Where the evidence does not clearly establish a link and an independent psychological assessment is needed, the psychological Assessment Provider reviews all relevant information and safeguarding concerns to determine whether a paper-based diagnosis is sufficient or whether a face-to-face or virtual assessment is required.
If a further assessment is recommended, the VPB Administration team will seek the applicant’s consent and offer the option of a companion attending. If consent is not provided, the report will be completed using the available evidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053746%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502193","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502193"}},{"id":"502192","reference":"AQW 53745/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-05","answerBy":"2026-10-20","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any weight given by Capita to psychiatric reports and diagnoses provided by applicants to the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme; and the circumstances in which its assessment may differ from the conclusions of an applicant's treating clinician.","answerText":"Each case referred from the Victims’ Payments Board to Capita is assigned to a Clinical Assessor (CA) who will conduct an Initial Review (IR) of an application to the Scheme and any medical evidence an applicant may have provided.\n\nThe CA will then decide whether: (i) further evidence is required; or (ii) the report can be completed using the evidence at hand; or (iii) a consultation is needed.\n\nAn independent psychological assessment is conducted when the CA has either not been able to confirm a diagnosis or working diagnosis for the psychological injuries attributed to the relevant incidents or when the psychiatric diagnosis documented in the available medical records is not clearly linked to the incidents that have been cited on the application.\n\nThe final psychological report is used to assist the CA by providing appropriate professional information in context. It forms an important component of the overall assessment of permanent disablement and is considered alongside all other relevant information.","answerHtml":"Each case referred from the Victims’ Payments Board to Capita is assigned to a Clinical Assessor (CA) who will conduct an Initial Review (IR) of an application to the Scheme and any medical evidence an applicant may have provided.
The CA will then decide whether: (i) further evidence is required; or (ii) the report can be completed using the evidence at hand; or (iii) a consultation is needed.
An independent psychological assessment is conducted when the CA has either not been able to confirm a diagnosis or working diagnosis for the psychological injuries attributed to the relevant incidents or when the psychiatric diagnosis documented in the available medical records is not clearly linked to the incidents that have been cited on the application.
The final psychological report is used to assist the CA by providing appropriate professional information in context. It forms an important component of the overall assessment of permanent disablement and is considered alongside all other relevant information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053745%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502192"}},{"id":"502191","reference":"AQW 53744/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-05","answerBy":"2026-10-20","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any way in which the Victims’ Payments Board verifies the presence of former members of the Armed Forces at Troubles-related incidents where no contemporaneous police record exists of their attendance.","answerText":"The Victims’ Payments Board (VPB) have information sharing arrangements in place with a number of organisations including the Ministry of Defence, PSNI and PRONI, to formally request supporting information as required. The VPB administration team exhausts all available avenues in their effort to gather as much supporting evidence as possible on behalf of applicants.\n\nUltimately, where this evidence gathering does not yield the desired return, the Panel are bound by the Victims’ Payments Regulations 2020 which underpin the Scheme. An independent panel of the VPB will also consider any evidence provided by the applicant or appellant in support of their applications.","answerHtml":"The Victims’ Payments Board (VPB) have information sharing arrangements in place with a number of organisations including the Ministry of Defence, PSNI and PRONI, to formally request supporting information as required. The VPB administration team exhausts all available avenues in their effort to gather as much supporting evidence as possible on behalf of applicants.
Ultimately, where this evidence gathering does not yield the desired return, the Panel are bound by the Victims’ Payments Regulations 2020 which underpin the Scheme. An independent panel of the VPB will also consider any evidence provided by the applicant or appellant in support of their applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053744%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=502191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=502191"}},{"id":"501962","reference":"AQW 53633/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-02","answerBy":"2026-10-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients attending Causeway Hospital Emergency Department who were referred by (i) a GP; (ii) GP Out of Hours; (iii) the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service; and (iv) another health and social care service, in each of the last 12 months.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053633%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501962"}},{"id":"501961","reference":"AQW 53632/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-02","answerBy":"2026-10-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any analysis undertaken of the reasons for the increase in attendances at Causeway Hospital Emergency Department, including the extent to which this is attributable to changes in access to other health and social care services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053632%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501961"}},{"id":"501960","reference":"AQW 53631/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-02","answerBy":"2026-10-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any urgent and same-day care services in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust that can be accessed directly by patients, without first attending an Emergency Department, including the referral pathway for each service.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053631%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501960"}},{"id":"501959","reference":"AQW 53630/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-02","answerBy":"2026-10-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the implementation of the commitment, under the Review of Urgent and Emergency Care Services, to develop a regional model of telephone triage for patients requiring urgent but non-life-threatening care.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053630%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501959","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501959"}},{"id":"501958","reference":"AQW 53629/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-02","answerBy":"2026-10-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the rationale as to why the Phone First service will be withdrawn in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) any evidence used to inform this decision; and (iii) how the decision aligns with his Department's strategic priorities for urgent and emergency care.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053629%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501958","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501958"}},{"id":"501727","reference":"AQW 53512/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail how their Department recognises and takes account of the contribution older people make to Northern Ireland, including through (i) caring responsibilities; (ii) volunteering; and (iii) participation in community life.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053512%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501727","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501727"}},{"id":"501726","reference":"AQW 53511/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any assessment that has been made of how Northern Ireland's changing age profile should inform long-term planning and investment in public services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053511%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501726"}},{"id":"501725","reference":"AQW 53510/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":"2026-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any action his Department is taking to support older people to remain independent, active and connected within their communities as they age.","answerText":"The Department for Communities undertakes a range of actions to help older people remain independent, active and connected within their communities as they age. These include:\n\nImplementing the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy, including the launch of the Warm Healthy Homes Fund, which will provide boiler repair support, fuel grants and loans to tackle fuel poverty, improve energy efficiency and support vulnerable households.\n\nPromoting safe, accessible and independent living for older people through the Disabled Facilities Grants for private homes and Disabled Adaptation Grants for Housing Association properties.\n\nSupport community participation and social connection through Libraries NI programmes and services, investment in accessible community facilities and volunteering opportunities that help older people remain active, engaged and connected within their communities.\n\nPromote participation in arts, culture, heritage and museum activities including dementia-friendly and age-inclusive programmes that support wellbeing, lifelong learning and social inclusion.\n\nThe above actions aim to support older people to live independently for longer, reduce social isolation, improve wellbeing and strengthen ageing communities. Work is also continuing on the new Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan, which I intend to share shortly with my Executive colleagues before proceeding to public consultation process.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities undertakes a range of actions to help older people remain independent, active and connected within their communities as they age. These include:
Implementing the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy, including the launch of the Warm Healthy Homes Fund, which will provide boiler repair support, fuel grants and loans to tackle fuel poverty, improve energy efficiency and support vulnerable households.
Promoting safe, accessible and independent living for older people through the Disabled Facilities Grants for private homes and Disabled Adaptation Grants for Housing Association properties.
Support community participation and social connection through Libraries NI programmes and services, investment in accessible community facilities and volunteering opportunities that help older people remain active, engaged and connected within their communities.
Promote participation in arts, culture, heritage and museum activities including dementia-friendly and age-inclusive programmes that support wellbeing, lifelong learning and social inclusion.
The above actions aim to support older people to live independently for longer, reduce social isolation, improve wellbeing and strengthen ageing communities. Work is also continuing on the new Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan, which I intend to share shortly with my Executive colleagues before proceeding to public consultation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053510%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501725"}},{"id":"501724","reference":"AQW 53509/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the additional demand that an ageing population will place on (i) domiciliary care; (ii) community health services; (iii) primary care; and (iv) hospital services, in the next ten years, including how this is informing workforce and service planning.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053509%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501724"}},{"id":"501723","reference":"AQW 53508/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail how outcomes for older people are being measured within the Programme for Government, including how their Department will assess whether older people's quality of life has improved during the current mandate.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053508%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501723"}},{"id":"504028","reference":"AQO 4110/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-10-01","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any action she is taking to address speeding and improve road safety, particularly on rural roads, in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Road safety is a high priority for my Department, and I am committed to working proactively to make our roads safer and address the needs of all road users, particularly on rural roads where a significant proportion of our road network is located.\n\nMy Department takes an evidence-led and risk-based approach to identifying locations where safety interventions may be required, informed by PSNI collision data, local knowledge, representations from elected representatives and communities, and the professional judgement of officials.\n\nCollision trends, including the frequency, severity and pattern of collisions, are analysed to identify locations where engineering measures are most likely to reduce risk and deliver meaningful safety benefits. Potential interventions may include collision remedial schemes, improvements to road alignment, vehicle restraint systems, and enhanced signage and road markings.\n\nThe recent Speed Limit Review consultation sought views on 20 mph limits, national speed limits on rural single and dual carriageways, and HGV speed limits, with the responses now informing the Department’s ongoing consideration of speed limit policy and measures to improve road safety.\n\nMore broadly, my Department continues to deliver the Road Safety Strategy Action Plan, which focuses on targeted interventions designed to address current and emerging road safety challenges.\n\nAlongside road safety investment, the recently published Road Maintenance Strategy will help ensure that available resources are targeted more effectively, enabling higher quality maintenance, more durable interventions and better prioritisation of work across the road network, including rural roads.","answerHtml":"Road safety is a high priority for my Department, and I am committed to working proactively to make our roads safer and address the needs of all road users, particularly on rural roads where a significant proportion of our road network is located.
My Department takes an evidence-led and risk-based approach to identifying locations where safety interventions may be required, informed by PSNI collision data, local knowledge, representations from elected representatives and communities, and the professional judgement of officials.
Collision trends, including the frequency, severity and pattern of collisions, are analysed to identify locations where engineering measures are most likely to reduce risk and deliver meaningful safety benefits. Potential interventions may include collision remedial schemes, improvements to road alignment, vehicle restraint systems, and enhanced signage and road markings.
The recent Speed Limit Review consultation sought views on 20 mph limits, national speed limits on rural single and dual carriageways, and HGV speed limits, with the responses now informing the Department’s ongoing consideration of speed limit policy and measures to improve road safety.
More broadly, my Department continues to deliver the Road Safety Strategy Action Plan, which focuses on targeted interventions designed to address current and emerging road safety challenges.
Alongside road safety investment, the recently published Road Maintenance Strategy will help ensure that available resources are targeted more effectively, enabling higher quality maintenance, more durable interventions and better prioritisation of work across the road network, including rural roads.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%204110%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=504028","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=504028"}},{"id":"501486","reference":"AQW 53400/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-30","answerBy":"2026-10-15","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of the prevalence of financial hardship among people of state pension age who are not entitled to means-tested benefits.","answerText":"I remain committed to ensuring that older people can access the support they need. My Department provides a range of measures to assist those experiencing financial hardship. My Department’s Active Ageing Strategy and associated Action Plan set out a vision for Northern Ireland to be an age-friendly society, where older people are valued and supported to live active, independent lives, with their rights respected and dignity protected. Work is continuing on the new Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan, which I intend to share imminently with Executive colleagues before proceeding to public consultation.","answerHtml":"I remain committed to ensuring that older people can access the support they need. My Department provides a range of measures to assist those experiencing financial hardship. My Department’s Active Ageing Strategy and associated Action Plan set out a vision for Northern Ireland to be an age-friendly society, where older people are valued and supported to live active, independent lives, with their rights respected and dignity protected. Work is continuing on the new Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan, which I intend to share imminently with Executive colleagues before proceeding to public consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053400%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501486","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501486"}},{"id":"501485","reference":"AQW 53399/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-30","answerBy":"2026-10-15","answered":"2026-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of fuel poverty among people of state pension age who are not entitled to means-tested benefits.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive published the Northern Ireland House Condition Survey 2023 Fuel Poverty Key Findings on 30 September 2026.\n\nThe Survey estimated that 46% of households containing one or more people of pensionable age were living in fuel poverty, rising to 56% for households headed by a person aged 75 years or over.\n\nThe Survey does not provide a separate estimate for people of State Pension age who are not entitled to means-tested benefits, and my Department has not undertaken a specific assessment of this group.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive published the Northern Ireland House Condition Survey 2023 Fuel Poverty Key Findings on 30 September 2026.
The Survey estimated that 46% of households containing one or more people of pensionable age were living in fuel poverty, rising to 56% for households headed by a person aged 75 years or over.
The Survey does not provide a separate estimate for people of State Pension age who are not entitled to means-tested benefits, and my Department has not undertaken a specific assessment of this group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053399%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501485"}},{"id":"501484","reference":"AQW 53398/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-30","answerBy":"2026-10-15","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of the risk of poverty among older women with limited occupational or private pension provision as a result of periods spent undertaking unpaid caring responsibilities.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring older people can access the support they need. My Department provides a range of measures to assist those experiencing financial hardship, including those not entitled to means-tested benefits, and continues to work to ensure people have access to their full State Pension.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring older people can access the support they need. My Department provides a range of measures to assist those experiencing financial hardship, including those not entitled to means-tested benefits, and continues to work to ensure people have access to their full State Pension.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053398%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501484","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501484"}},{"id":"501483","reference":"AQW 53397/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-30","answerBy":"2026-10-15","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measures his Department provides to support people of state pension age who are experiencing financial hardship but are not entitled to means-tested benefits","answerText":"The Department for Communities provides a range of measures to assist older people who may be experiencing financial hardship, including those who are not entitled to means-tested benefits.\n\nThese measures include the Winter Fuel Payment, free bus and rail travel through the Concessionary Fares Scheme, and support available through the Affordable Warmth Scheme and the Home Heating Oil Scheme, subject to eligibility criteria. Attendance Allowance is available for those older people who have a medical condition or disability.\n\nIn addition, Make the call will carry out a needs assessment based on your personal circumstances and look at what benefits, supports and services that may be available to older people. The Department also funds independent advice services which provide information and guidance on budgeting, debt management, benefit entitlement checks and other sources of assistance. Older people are encouraged to seek advice to ensure they are receiving all support to which they may be entitled.\n\nThe Department keeps the effectiveness of support measures under review and continues to work with stakeholders to identify opportunities to assist older people facing financial hardship.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities provides a range of measures to assist older people who may be experiencing financial hardship, including those who are not entitled to means-tested benefits.
These measures include the Winter Fuel Payment, free bus and rail travel through the Concessionary Fares Scheme, and support available through the Affordable Warmth Scheme and the Home Heating Oil Scheme, subject to eligibility criteria. Attendance Allowance is available for those older people who have a medical condition or disability.
In addition, Make the call will carry out a needs assessment based on your personal circumstances and look at what benefits, supports and services that may be available to older people. The Department also funds independent advice services which provide information and guidance on budgeting, debt management, benefit entitlement checks and other sources of assistance. Older people are encouraged to seek advice to ensure they are receiving all support to which they may be entitled.
The Department keeps the effectiveness of support measures under review and continues to work with stakeholders to identify opportunities to assist older people facing financial hardship.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053397%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501483"}},{"id":"501482","reference":"AQW 53396/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-30","answerBy":"2026-10-15","answered":"2026-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people of state pension age whose weekly income exceeds the qualifying level for Pension Credit by (i) less than £5; (ii) £5 to £10; and (iii) £10 to £20.","answerText":"My Department does not hold the information requested.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053396%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501482"}},{"id":"501243","reference":"AQW 53288/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-29","answerBy":"2026-10-14","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of dental practices in East Londonderry that are currently accepting new National Health Service patients, broken down by (i) adults; and (ii) children.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053288%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501243"}},{"id":"501242","reference":"AQW 53287/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-29","answerBy":"2026-10-14","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the publication of the General Dental Services in Northern Ireland Cost of Service Review, to detail any action he will take to ensure dentists are adequately remunerated for providing National Health Service treatment.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053287%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501242"}},{"id":"501241","reference":"AQW 53286/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-29","answerBy":"2026-10-14","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made of the impact of the current level of remuneration for National Health Service dentistry on (i) the number of dentists providing National Health Service treatment; and (ii) patient access to dental services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053286%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501241"}},{"id":"501240","reference":"AQW 53285/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-29","answerBy":"2026-10-14","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any action he is taking to improve access to National Health Service dentists for people who are unable to find a practice that is accepting new patients.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053285%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501240"}},{"id":"501239","reference":"AQW 53284/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-29","answerBy":"2026-10-14","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any action he is taking to prevent further dental practices from reducing or withdrawing National Health Service dental provision.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053284%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=501239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=501239"}},{"id":"500866","reference":"AQW 53178/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any engagement undertaken with farmers and representative organisations on the proposed Nutrients Action Programme 2027–2030, including (I) the principal concerns raised during this engagement; and (ii) any changes made or being considered in response.","answerText":"The NAP 2027–2030 consultation proposals were developed following extensive stakeholder engagement with the Nutrients Action Programme Stakeholder Task and Finish Group (NAPSTFG), which included representatives from farming, the agri-food industry, environmental organisations and officials from my Department. In addition, four public information events were held during the consultation period to discuss the proposed measures.\n\nOfficials are currently considering feedback received through the consultation and at these events. The issues raised, together with the Department's response, will be set out in the Summary of Consultation Findings and Departmental Response report, which will be published in due course.\n\nAny changes proposed to the measures in the consultation will be presented to me so that I can take my final decisions on the measures in the Nutrients Action Programme 2027 – 2030.","answerHtml":"The NAP 2027–2030 consultation proposals were developed following extensive stakeholder engagement with the Nutrients Action Programme Stakeholder Task and Finish Group (NAPSTFG), which included representatives from farming, the agri-food industry, environmental organisations and officials from my Department. In addition, four public information events were held during the consultation period to discuss the proposed measures.
Officials are currently considering feedback received through the consultation and at these events. The issues raised, together with the Department's response, will be set out in the Summary of Consultation Findings and Departmental Response report, which will be published in due course.
Any changes proposed to the measures in the consultation will be presented to me so that I can take my final decisions on the measures in the Nutrients Action Programme 2027 – 2030.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053178%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500866","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500866"}},{"id":"500865","reference":"AQW 53177/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) any financial and practical support that will be available to farmers to implement measures under the proposed Nutrients Action Programme 2027–2030; (ii) how this support will reflect implementation costs at farm level; and (iii) any additional support being considered following engagement with the agricultural sector.","answerText":"The new Sustainable Farming Investment Scheme (SFIS) within the Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP), will offer capital grant support to farmers for low emission slurry spreading equipment (LESSE).\n\nMy Department will also deliver a programme of practical support through guidance, training and knowledge transfer activities, alongside enhanced digital tools and nutrient calculators to support on-farm decision making.\n\nThe main capital costs associated with the proposed Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027–2030 are in relation to LESSE, for which capital grant support will be available through SFIS.\n\nThe proposed NAP 2027-2030 has been developed through the NAP Stakeholder Task and Finish Group which included representatives of the farming, agrifood and environmental sectors. Through that process the need for enhanced advisory and technical support for farmers was identified. My Department is committed to continuing its engagement with the agricultural sector. Work is already underway to strengthen knowledge transfer, training and advisory support for both farmers and agri-industry professionals.","answerHtml":"The new Sustainable Farming Investment Scheme (SFIS) within the Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP), will offer capital grant support to farmers for low emission slurry spreading equipment (LESSE).
My Department will also deliver a programme of practical support through guidance, training and knowledge transfer activities, alongside enhanced digital tools and nutrient calculators to support on-farm decision making.
The main capital costs associated with the proposed Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027–2030 are in relation to LESSE, for which capital grant support will be available through SFIS.
The proposed NAP 2027-2030 has been developed through the NAP Stakeholder Task and Finish Group which included representatives of the farming, agrifood and environmental sectors. Through that process the need for enhanced advisory and technical support for farmers was identified. My Department is committed to continuing its engagement with the agricultural sector. Work is already underway to strengthen knowledge transfer, training and advisory support for both farmers and agri-industry professionals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053177%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500865"}},{"id":"500864","reference":"AQW 53176/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) any measures being taken to address the impact of blue-green algae travelling from Lough Neagh through the Lower Bann to the North Coast, including any resources allocated to these measures; and (ii) any additional interventions planned for affected communities and businesses in East Londonderry.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053176%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500864"}},{"id":"500863","reference":"AQW 53175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, following any actions within the Lough Neagh Action Plan recorded as delivered, to detail (i) which have resulted in a measurable improvement in the condition of Lough Neagh, including how the improvement was recorded; and (ii) how the impact of delivered actions is being evaluated.","answerText":"The environmental challenges affecting Lough Neagh have developed over decades. Scientific research indicates that, even with significant reductions in nutrient inputs, recovery may take between 20 to 40 years. As many actions within the Lough Neagh Action Plan have only recently been implemented, measurable environmental improvements are not yet expected.\n\nThe impact of actions is being assessed through an enhanced monitoring programme across the Lough and its catchment, including additional monitoring sites, high-frequency data collection and regular water quality analysis. This is establishing the evidence base needed to track trends and evaluate outcomes over time.\n\nData generated through this programme is being made publicly available through Lough Neagh Water Quality Dashboards found at https://daerani.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/19194a16844f499681d741c41441e68c#\n\nGiven the influence of weather and other environmental factors on algal blooms, the effectiveness of interventions can only be assessed through analysis of longer-term monitoring data rather than changes observed in any single year.","answerHtml":"The environmental challenges affecting Lough Neagh have developed over decades. Scientific research indicates that, even with significant reductions in nutrient inputs, recovery may take between 20 to 40 years. As many actions within the Lough Neagh Action Plan have only recently been implemented, measurable environmental improvements are not yet expected.
The impact of actions is being assessed through an enhanced monitoring programme across the Lough and its catchment, including additional monitoring sites, high-frequency data collection and regular water quality analysis. This is establishing the evidence base needed to track trends and evaluate outcomes over time.
Data generated through this programme is being made publicly available through Lough Neagh Water Quality Dashboards found at https://daerani.maps.arcgis.com/apps/dashboards/19194a16844f499681d741c41441e68c#
Given the influence of weather and other environmental factors on algal blooms, the effectiveness of interventions can only be assessed through analysis of longer-term monitoring data rather than changes observed in any single year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500863"}},{"id":"500862","reference":"AQW 53174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-28","answerBy":"2026-10-13","answered":"2026-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) any further interventions that are being considered to reduce the frequency and severity of blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh; (ii) any evidence available on their potential effectiveness; and (iii) any anticipated timescale for determining whether they will be implemented.","answerText":"Measures to reduce nutrient inputs, particularly phosphorus, remain fundamental to addressing blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh.\n\nConsultation on the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027-2030 has recently concluded. The final programme is intended to improve water quality by reducing nutrient losses, from agricultural sources, to our waterways through a range of measures which strengthen nutrient management.\n\nI recently announced a new Shared Island-funded Lough Neagh Catchment Area Water Quality Programme, running from 2027 to 2031, with investment in a range of ecological and on farm measures.\n\nThe Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), which is examining innovative technologies to mitigate harmful algal blooms, is currently in Phase 2 of testing and evidence gathering and is expected to conclude in March 2027.\n\nThese measures complement wider actions to strengthen wastewater regulation and environmental protection, including new water environment legislation, wastewater regulatory reform and the establishment of an Independent Environmental Protection Agency.\n\nThe effectiveness of these interventions is being assessed through ongoing monitoring, including DAERA's publicly available Lough Neagh Dashboards. AFBI research indicates that, even with substantial reductions in nutrient inputs, recovery of the Lough's ecological condition could take between 20 to 40 years.","answerHtml":"Measures to reduce nutrient inputs, particularly phosphorus, remain fundamental to addressing blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh.
Consultation on the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2027-2030 has recently concluded. The final programme is intended to improve water quality by reducing nutrient losses, from agricultural sources, to our waterways through a range of measures which strengthen nutrient management.
I recently announced a new Shared Island-funded Lough Neagh Catchment Area Water Quality Programme, running from 2027 to 2031, with investment in a range of ecological and on farm measures.
The Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI), which is examining innovative technologies to mitigate harmful algal blooms, is currently in Phase 2 of testing and evidence gathering and is expected to conclude in March 2027.
These measures complement wider actions to strengthen wastewater regulation and environmental protection, including new water environment legislation, wastewater regulatory reform and the establishment of an Independent Environmental Protection Agency.
The effectiveness of these interventions is being assessed through ongoing monitoring, including DAERA's publicly available Lough Neagh Dashboards. AFBI research indicates that, even with substantial reductions in nutrient inputs, recovery of the Lough's ecological condition could take between 20 to 40 years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500862"}},{"id":"500614","reference":"AQW 53044/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-25","answerBy":"2026-10-12","answered":"2026-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) any provisions available to Northern Ireland Civil Service employees, who volunteer with HM Coastguard or other voluntary emergency services, to enable them to respond to emergency call-outs during working hours; and (ii) any assessment that has been made of the consistency with which these provisions are applied across Departments.","answerText":"The Civil Service Special Leave policy makes provision for staff who volunteer with emergency and voluntary rescue services.\n\nStaff who wish to join such an organisation must first obtain the consent of NICS HR.\n\nAlthough volunteering with emergency and voluntary rescue services should not normally require absence from official civil service duties, staff called to an emergency during working hours will be permitted to leave work to attend.\n\nThe Special Leave policy provides a common framework for all Departments, with decisions taken by line managers, on a case-by-case basis, having regard to business needs.","answerHtml":"The Civil Service Special Leave policy makes provision for staff who volunteer with emergency and voluntary rescue services.
Staff who wish to join such an organisation must first obtain the consent of NICS HR.
Although volunteering with emergency and voluntary rescue services should not normally require absence from official civil service duties, staff called to an emergency during working hours will be permitted to leave work to attend.
The Special Leave policy provides a common framework for all Departments, with decisions taken by line managers, on a case-by-case basis, having regard to business needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053044%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500614","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500614"}},{"id":"500613","reference":"AQW 53043/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-25","answerBy":"2026-10-12","answered":"2026-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the protocol for transferring patients from HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopters into hospital Emergency Departments; and (ii) any circumstances in which a Northern Ireland Ambulance Service vehicle is required to transfer a patient from a hospital landing site into the hospital.","answerText":"Where an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter rescues or retrieves a patient requiring onward hospital treatment, the aircraft will normally land at a suitable landing location identified by the flight crew. HM Coastguard liaises with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) Emergency Operations Centre where an ambulance response is required, and NIAS transfers the patient onwards to the hospital most appropriate to the patient's clinical condition and treatment needs.\n\nHM Coastguard SAR helicopters do not currently routinely operate to hospital helicopter landing sites in Northern Ireland. The suitability of individual sites is dependent on the requirements applicable to the aircraft and landing site, including physical constraints such as airframe size and the required downwash/clearance area. Work has taken place with HM Coastguard and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to explore the potential for SAR operations at individual hospital sites where this can be safely facilitated.\n\nA NIAS vehicle is required where the helicopter landing site does not provide direct access into the receiving hospital, or where onward ground transfer is otherwise necessary.\n\nFor Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) arrivals at the South West Acute Hospital, Altnagelvin Hospital, Causeway Hospital and Antrim Area Hospital, NIAS facilitates transfer from the hospital landing site into the hospital. At the Royal Victoria Hospital, patients arriving by HEMS can be transferred directly from the rooftop helipad into the hospital without routinely requiring a NIAS vehicle.\n\nWhere a paediatric patient conveyed by HEMS requires treatment at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, the aircraft lands at the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and NIAS provides the onward transfer between the sites.\n\nThe Southern HSC Trust does not currently have an operational hospital helicopter landing facility at Craigavon Area Hospital or Daisy Hill Hospital. Where helicopter transfer to a Southern HSC Trust hospital is required, the aircraft lands at a suitable off-site location and NIAS undertakes the onward ground transfer. The South Eastern HSC Trust has also advised that helicopters do not land at the Ulster Hospital site.\n\nNo formal assessment has been undertaken of the impact on patient transfer times arising specifically from HM Coastguard SAR helicopters being unable to land at the hospital most appropriate for a patient's treatment.\n\nWhere direct landing at a hospital is not possible, an additional transfer by road may be required between the helicopter landing location and the receiving hospital. The arrangements are coordinated according to the patient's clinical needs and the operational circumstances at the time.\n\nThere are physical constraints at a number of hospital landing sites which currently limit their suitability for HM Coastguard SAR operations, including aircraft dimensions and downwash requirements. HM Coastguard and relevant HSC Trusts have been engaging to consider whether SAR operations can be facilitated at individual sites. This has included consideration of the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and Causeway Hospital. Relevant information on hospital helicopter landing sites has been provided to the SAR operator to support direct engagement with individual sites.","answerHtml":"Where an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter rescues or retrieves a patient requiring onward hospital treatment, the aircraft will normally land at a suitable landing location identified by the flight crew. HM Coastguard liaises with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) Emergency Operations Centre where an ambulance response is required, and NIAS transfers the patient onwards to the hospital most appropriate to the patient's clinical condition and treatment needs.
HM Coastguard SAR helicopters do not currently routinely operate to hospital helicopter landing sites in Northern Ireland. The suitability of individual sites is dependent on the requirements applicable to the aircraft and landing site, including physical constraints such as airframe size and the required downwash/clearance area. Work has taken place with HM Coastguard and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to explore the potential for SAR operations at individual hospital sites where this can be safely facilitated.
A NIAS vehicle is required where the helicopter landing site does not provide direct access into the receiving hospital, or where onward ground transfer is otherwise necessary.
For Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) arrivals at the South West Acute Hospital, Altnagelvin Hospital, Causeway Hospital and Antrim Area Hospital, NIAS facilitates transfer from the hospital landing site into the hospital. At the Royal Victoria Hospital, patients arriving by HEMS can be transferred directly from the rooftop helipad into the hospital without routinely requiring a NIAS vehicle.
Where a paediatric patient conveyed by HEMS requires treatment at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, the aircraft lands at the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and NIAS provides the onward transfer between the sites.
The Southern HSC Trust does not currently have an operational hospital helicopter landing facility at Craigavon Area Hospital or Daisy Hill Hospital. Where helicopter transfer to a Southern HSC Trust hospital is required, the aircraft lands at a suitable off-site location and NIAS undertakes the onward ground transfer. The South Eastern HSC Trust has also advised that helicopters do not land at the Ulster Hospital site.
No formal assessment has been undertaken of the impact on patient transfer times arising specifically from HM Coastguard SAR helicopters being unable to land at the hospital most appropriate for a patient's treatment.
Where direct landing at a hospital is not possible, an additional transfer by road may be required between the helicopter landing location and the receiving hospital. The arrangements are coordinated according to the patient's clinical needs and the operational circumstances at the time.
There are physical constraints at a number of hospital landing sites which currently limit their suitability for HM Coastguard SAR operations, including aircraft dimensions and downwash requirements. HM Coastguard and relevant HSC Trusts have been engaging to consider whether SAR operations can be facilitated at individual sites. This has included consideration of the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and Causeway Hospital. Relevant information on hospital helicopter landing sites has been provided to the SAR operator to support direct engagement with individual sites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053043%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500613","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500613"}},{"id":"500612","reference":"AQW 53042/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-25","answerBy":"2026-10-12","answered":"2026-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact on patient transfer times where HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopters are unable to land at the hospital most appropriate for a patient's treatment.","answerText":"Where an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter rescues or retrieves a patient requiring onward hospital treatment, the aircraft will normally land at a suitable landing location identified by the flight crew. HM Coastguard liaises with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) Emergency Operations Centre where an ambulance response is required, and NIAS transfers the patient onwards to the hospital most appropriate to the patient's clinical condition and treatment needs.\n\nHM Coastguard SAR helicopters do not currently routinely operate to hospital helicopter landing sites in Northern Ireland. The suitability of individual sites is dependent on the requirements applicable to the aircraft and landing site, including physical constraints such as airframe size and the required downwash/clearance area. Work has taken place with HM Coastguard and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to explore the potential for SAR operations at individual hospital sites where this can be safely facilitated.\n\nA NIAS vehicle is required where the helicopter landing site does not provide direct access into the receiving hospital, or where onward ground transfer is otherwise necessary.\n\nFor Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) arrivals at the South West Acute Hospital, Altnagelvin Hospital, Causeway Hospital and Antrim Area Hospital, NIAS facilitates transfer from the hospital landing site into the hospital. At the Royal Victoria Hospital, patients arriving by HEMS can be transferred directly from the rooftop helipad into the hospital without routinely requiring a NIAS vehicle.\n\nWhere a paediatric patient conveyed by HEMS requires treatment at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, the aircraft lands at the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and NIAS provides the onward transfer between the sites.\n\nThe Southern HSC Trust does not currently have an operational hospital helicopter landing facility at Craigavon Area Hospital or Daisy Hill Hospital. Where helicopter transfer to a Southern HSC Trust hospital is required, the aircraft lands at a suitable off-site location and NIAS undertakes the onward ground transfer. The South Eastern HSC Trust has also advised that helicopters do not land at the Ulster Hospital site.\n\nNo formal assessment has been undertaken of the impact on patient transfer times arising specifically from HM Coastguard SAR helicopters being unable to land at the hospital most appropriate for a patient's treatment.\n\nWhere direct landing at a hospital is not possible, an additional transfer by road may be required between the helicopter landing location and the receiving hospital. The arrangements are coordinated according to the patient's clinical needs and the operational circumstances at the time.\n\nThere are physical constraints at a number of hospital landing sites which currently limit their suitability for HM Coastguard SAR operations, including aircraft dimensions and downwash requirements. HM Coastguard and relevant HSC Trusts have been engaging to consider whether SAR operations can be facilitated at individual sites. This has included consideration of the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and Causeway Hospital. Relevant information on hospital helicopter landing sites has been provided to the SAR operator to support direct engagement with individual sites.","answerHtml":"Where an HM Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) helicopter rescues or retrieves a patient requiring onward hospital treatment, the aircraft will normally land at a suitable landing location identified by the flight crew. HM Coastguard liaises with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) Emergency Operations Centre where an ambulance response is required, and NIAS transfers the patient onwards to the hospital most appropriate to the patient's clinical condition and treatment needs.
HM Coastguard SAR helicopters do not currently routinely operate to hospital helicopter landing sites in Northern Ireland. The suitability of individual sites is dependent on the requirements applicable to the aircraft and landing site, including physical constraints such as airframe size and the required downwash/clearance area. Work has taken place with HM Coastguard and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to explore the potential for SAR operations at individual hospital sites where this can be safely facilitated.
A NIAS vehicle is required where the helicopter landing site does not provide direct access into the receiving hospital, or where onward ground transfer is otherwise necessary.
For Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) arrivals at the South West Acute Hospital, Altnagelvin Hospital, Causeway Hospital and Antrim Area Hospital, NIAS facilitates transfer from the hospital landing site into the hospital. At the Royal Victoria Hospital, patients arriving by HEMS can be transferred directly from the rooftop helipad into the hospital without routinely requiring a NIAS vehicle.
Where a paediatric patient conveyed by HEMS requires treatment at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children, the aircraft lands at the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and NIAS provides the onward transfer between the sites.
The Southern HSC Trust does not currently have an operational hospital helicopter landing facility at Craigavon Area Hospital or Daisy Hill Hospital. Where helicopter transfer to a Southern HSC Trust hospital is required, the aircraft lands at a suitable off-site location and NIAS undertakes the onward ground transfer. The South Eastern HSC Trust has also advised that helicopters do not land at the Ulster Hospital site.
No formal assessment has been undertaken of the impact on patient transfer times arising specifically from HM Coastguard SAR helicopters being unable to land at the hospital most appropriate for a patient's treatment.
Where direct landing at a hospital is not possible, an additional transfer by road may be required between the helicopter landing location and the receiving hospital. The arrangements are coordinated according to the patient's clinical needs and the operational circumstances at the time.
There are physical constraints at a number of hospital landing sites which currently limit their suitability for HM Coastguard SAR operations, including aircraft dimensions and downwash requirements. HM Coastguard and relevant HSC Trusts have been engaging to consider whether SAR operations can be facilitated at individual sites. This has included consideration of the Royal Victoria Hospital helipad and Causeway Hospital. Relevant information on hospital helicopter landing sites has been provided to the SAR operator to support direct engagement with individual sites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053042%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500612","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500612"}},{"id":"500611","reference":"AQW 53041/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-25","answerBy":"2026-10-12","answered":"2026-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the hospital helicopter landing sites that are currently unavailable for use by HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopters, including (i) any reasons why it is unavailable; and (ii) any anticipated timeframe for enabling its use.","answerText":"Causeway Hospital – The helipad is currently not suitable for HM Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) operations due to physical constraints. The SAR helicopters utilised by the SAR operator require a clear 60m downwash zone that is secured during landings. The Causeway Hospital helipad does not have a clear 60m downwash zone. The NHSCT continue to engage with the SAR operator, in the anticipation that they can collectively find appropriate safety mitigations and approvals that would allow the aircraft to land at Causeway Hospital.\n\nA timeframe for enabling its use has been set and will depend on ongoing discussions with the SAR operator, agreed safety mitigations and available funding.\n\nAntrim Hospital – Antrim Hospital does not have a clear 60m downwash and outwash zone, however the NHSCT are in discussion with the SAR operator to review risk mitigations for the possible use of this landing site.\n\nThe RVH Helipad is currently operational and available only to the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance. The Search and Rescue (SAR) operator, Bristow, assessed the helipad and advised that it may be possible to utilise it for a limited number of aircraft within its current fleet.\n\nThe SAR operator was advised that any use of the helipad would require a formal request to the Belfast Trust Executive Team and the development of a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Belfast Trust and Air Ambulance Northern Ireland to establish how and when landings could be facilitated.\n\nThis process remains ongoing and there are currently no timescales in place for when the helipad may become operational for SAR use.\n\nHelicopter landing sites at South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, and Altnagelvin Hospital, Londonderry are CAP 1264 compliant in terms of the relevant design and physical infrastructure however, they are not operational for the SAR operator due to physical constraints.\n\nThe Western Trust also has a landing site at Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex. It is not operational to the SAR operator and operational manuals are currently in development for this site.","answerHtml":"Causeway Hospital – The helipad is currently not suitable for HM Coastguard Search and Rescue (SAR) operations due to physical constraints. The SAR helicopters utilised by the SAR operator require a clear 60m downwash zone that is secured during landings. The Causeway Hospital helipad does not have a clear 60m downwash zone. The NHSCT continue to engage with the SAR operator, in the anticipation that they can collectively find appropriate safety mitigations and approvals that would allow the aircraft to land at Causeway Hospital.
A timeframe for enabling its use has been set and will depend on ongoing discussions with the SAR operator, agreed safety mitigations and available funding.
Antrim Hospital – Antrim Hospital does not have a clear 60m downwash and outwash zone, however the NHSCT are in discussion with the SAR operator to review risk mitigations for the possible use of this landing site.
The RVH Helipad is currently operational and available only to the Northern Ireland Air Ambulance. The Search and Rescue (SAR) operator, Bristow, assessed the helipad and advised that it may be possible to utilise it for a limited number of aircraft within its current fleet.
The SAR operator was advised that any use of the helipad would require a formal request to the Belfast Trust Executive Team and the development of a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Belfast Trust and Air Ambulance Northern Ireland to establish how and when landings could be facilitated.
This process remains ongoing and there are currently no timescales in place for when the helipad may become operational for SAR use.
Helicopter landing sites at South West Acute Hospital, Enniskillen, and Altnagelvin Hospital, Londonderry are CAP 1264 compliant in terms of the relevant design and physical infrastructure however, they are not operational for the SAR operator due to physical constraints.
The Western Trust also has a landing site at Omagh Hospital and Primary Care Complex. It is not operational to the SAR operator and operational manuals are currently in development for this site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053041%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500611"}},{"id":"500610","reference":"AQW 53040/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-25","answerBy":"2026-10-12","answered":"2026-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any reasons why the helicopter landing site at Causeway Hospital is not currently available for routine use by HM Coastguard search and rescue helicopters; (i) any outstanding works or assessments required; and (ii) any anticipated timeframe for enabling its use.","answerText":"Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) has advised:\n\nThe Search and Rescue (SAR) Helicopters utilised by the SAR operator require a clear 60m downwash and outwash zone that has to be secured during landings. Causeway Hospital does not have a clear 60m zone from the helipad. The NHSCT continue to engage with the SAR operator, in the anticipation that they can collectively find appropriate safety mitigations and approvals that would allow the aircraft to land at Causeway Hospital.\n\nA Heliport Safety Report has been completed by an aviation operations specialist which includes consideration of SAR helicopter operations into the Causeway Hospital. The recommendations are being taken forward for costing and depending on funding and agreement from the SAR operator on risk mitigations a timeline will be set for implementation.","answerHtml":"Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) has advised:
The Search and Rescue (SAR) Helicopters utilised by the SAR operator require a clear 60m downwash and outwash zone that has to be secured during landings. Causeway Hospital does not have a clear 60m zone from the helipad. The NHSCT continue to engage with the SAR operator, in the anticipation that they can collectively find appropriate safety mitigations and approvals that would allow the aircraft to land at Causeway Hospital.
A Heliport Safety Report has been completed by an aviation operations specialist which includes consideration of SAR helicopter operations into the Causeway Hospital. The recommendations are being taken forward for costing and depending on funding and agreement from the SAR operator on risk mitigations a timeline will be set for implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053040%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500610","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500610"}},{"id":"500440","reference":"AQW 52925/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-09","answered":"2026-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any process that is in place to support rural properties that were excluded from publicly funded broadband programmes, as a result of a commercial provider indicating that it would provide a connection, but the connection was subsequently not delivered.","answerText":"I understand the importance of good connectivity, particularly in rural areas. Project Gigabit is targeted at premises where gigabit-capable broadband is not available and there are no credible commercial plans to provide it.\n\nMy Department continues to monitor providers’ commercial rollout plans and the delivery of those commitments. My Department will challenge plans which it considers are no longer credible or realistic.\n\nWhere commercial plans fall away or do not materialise, affected premises may be considered for future intervention, subject to the availability of public funding, and where it represents value for money. As you can appreciate, this could take some time so property owners may want to consider services such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite and wireless technologies for internet connectivity.","answerHtml":"I understand the importance of good connectivity, particularly in rural areas. Project Gigabit is targeted at premises where gigabit-capable broadband is not available and there are no credible commercial plans to provide it.
My Department continues to monitor providers’ commercial rollout plans and the delivery of those commitments. My Department will challenge plans which it considers are no longer credible or realistic.
Where commercial plans fall away or do not materialise, affected premises may be considered for future intervention, subject to the availability of public funding, and where it represents value for money. As you can appreciate, this could take some time so property owners may want to consider services such as Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellite and wireless technologies for internet connectivity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052925%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500440"}},{"id":"500439","reference":"AQW 52924/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-09","answered":"2026-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any assessment that has been made of the resilience of broadband infrastructure in rural East Londonderry during severe weather; and (ii) any consideration that has been given to funding the undergrounding of infrastructure in areas that experience repeated outages.","answerText":"I recognise that resilient telecoms networks are important to consumers and businesses here, given our increasing reliance on digital communications services. Under current communications legislation, communications providers remain responsible for operating and maintaining resilient networks, with Ofcom overseeing statutory security and resilience obligations.\n\nOfficials engage with telecommunications providers and Ofcom to review evidence from severe weather events through local and national forums. Some operators have introduced enhanced measures to prepare for future events, including proactive pole testing, improved battery and backhaul resilience, additional supply-chain capacity, and more detailed analysis of sections of overhead network that have been affected repeatedly. I understand that the British Government is scoping a network-hardening review to identify options for infrastructure to operate for longer during disruption across Britain. However, no funding has been earmarked to date for any outworkings of the review.","answerHtml":"I recognise that resilient telecoms networks are important to consumers and businesses here, given our increasing reliance on digital communications services. Under current communications legislation, communications providers remain responsible for operating and maintaining resilient networks, with Ofcom overseeing statutory security and resilience obligations.
Officials engage with telecommunications providers and Ofcom to review evidence from severe weather events through local and national forums. Some operators have introduced enhanced measures to prepare for future events, including proactive pole testing, improved battery and backhaul resilience, additional supply-chain capacity, and more detailed analysis of sections of overhead network that have been affected repeatedly. I understand that the British Government is scoping a network-hardening review to identify options for infrastructure to operate for longer during disruption across Britain. However, no funding has been earmarked to date for any outworkings of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052924%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500439"}},{"id":"500438","reference":"AQW 52923/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-09","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any support that is available to residents of isolated rural properties who face significant costs to connect to nearby full-fibre broadband infrastructure.","answerText":"Project Gigabit is the primary mechanism through which my Department is supporting the extension of gigabit-capable broadband to eligible rural premises that would not otherwise be served commercially. Eligibility is determined in accordance with the Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme and is subject to available funding and value for money considerations.\n\nFor premises currently outside the scope of Project Gigabit, I am working to explore sources of further funding from the British Government. In the meantime, residents may wish to explore providers' self-funded connection options or alternative technologies such as 5G or satellite.\n\nAdditionally, those unable to access a decent broadband service may also be eligible for support under the broadband Universal Service Obligation, which can provide support for a basic broadband service and which is provided by BT here.","answerHtml":"Project Gigabit is the primary mechanism through which my Department is supporting the extension of gigabit-capable broadband to eligible rural premises that would not otherwise be served commercially. Eligibility is determined in accordance with the Gigabit Infrastructure Subsidy Scheme and is subject to available funding and value for money considerations.
For premises currently outside the scope of Project Gigabit, I am working to explore sources of further funding from the British Government. In the meantime, residents may wish to explore providers' self-funded connection options or alternative technologies such as 5G or satellite.
Additionally, those unable to access a decent broadband service may also be eligible for support under the broadband Universal Service Obligation, which can provide support for a basic broadband service and which is provided by BT here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052923%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500438"}},{"id":"500437","reference":"AQW 52922/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-09","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any action she is taking to address difficulties faced by new build properties in rural areas of East Londonderry in securing a broadband connection; and (ii) whether she has considered requiring broadband infrastructure to be incorporated at the construction stage of new developments.","answerText":"My Department recognises the difficulties that some new-build properties, particularly in rural areas, can experience in securing good broadband connectivity.\n\nThe speed of internet in an area, and any ducting or cabling infrastructure in a public street or road, are functions of the utilities provision to the area. As regards new-build properties, telecoms companies will often work with developers to ensure appropriate infrastructure is put in place during the construction phase.\n\nPublicly funded broadband programmes are designed to address identified market failure in existing premises, while developers are encouraged to continue to engage with telecommunications providers at an early stage so that appropriate broadband infrastructure can be considered as part of new-build developments. Some telecommunications companies have schemes in place whereby individuals can request a quote for the provision of fibre broadband to individual premises.\n\nMy officials are engaging with other Departments including DoF to explore options.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the difficulties that some new-build properties, particularly in rural areas, can experience in securing good broadband connectivity.
The speed of internet in an area, and any ducting or cabling infrastructure in a public street or road, are functions of the utilities provision to the area. As regards new-build properties, telecoms companies will often work with developers to ensure appropriate infrastructure is put in place during the construction phase.
Publicly funded broadband programmes are designed to address identified market failure in existing premises, while developers are encouraged to continue to engage with telecommunications providers at an early stage so that appropriate broadband infrastructure can be considered as part of new-build developments. Some telecommunications companies have schemes in place whereby individuals can request a quote for the provision of fibre broadband to individual premises.
My officials are engaging with other Departments including DoF to explore options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052922%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500437"}},{"id":"500436","reference":"AQW 52921/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-09","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any action she is taking to improve access to reliable high-speed broadband in rural parts of East Londonderry that remain outside current commercial and publicly funded roll-out plans.","answerText":"In East Derry, www.thinkbroadband.com estimate that 96.01% of premises (56,378 premises) currently have access to gigabit-capable broadband which compares to 88% of premises in Britain. A further 1,474 premises are included in Project Gigabit, with delivery continuing through the current contract. For premises that may remain unserved, my officials are exploring alternative solutions, including technologies other than full fibre technologies that can support broadband such as satellite and mobile wireless.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with the British Government and telecommunications providers, and I will continue to press for additional funding to extend gigabit-capable broadband coverage to premises that might otherwise remain unserved.","answerHtml":"In East Derry, www.thinkbroadband.com estimate that 96.01% of premises (56,378 premises) currently have access to gigabit-capable broadband which compares to 88% of premises in Britain. A further 1,474 premises are included in Project Gigabit, with delivery continuing through the current contract. For premises that may remain unserved, my officials are exploring alternative solutions, including technologies other than full fibre technologies that can support broadband such as satellite and mobile wireless.
My officials continue to engage with the British Government and telecommunications providers, and I will continue to press for additional funding to extend gigabit-capable broadband coverage to premises that might otherwise remain unserved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052921%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500436","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500436"}},{"id":"500373","reference":"AQO 4038/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-24","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-10-05","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any steps she is taking to support Ulster University in avoiding compulsory redundancies.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%204038%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500373","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-10-05&docID=501404#AQO%204038/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500373"}},{"id":"500116","reference":"AQW 52796/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any assessment his Department has made of the accessibility of the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme for older people, who do not have access to, or are not confident using, digital services; (ii) whether the needs of digitally excluded older people were considered as part of the Scheme's equality screening; and (iii) whether he will review the application process, in light of difficulties experienced by older applicants.","answerText":"Those claimants who require assistance with making an application to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme, can receive support through a dedicated telephone helpline, Jobs & Benefits offices, the Make the Call service and the Veterans Support Line NI.\n\nMy Department designed the application process to include a telephone line for claims, providing an accessible alternative for those unable to apply online.\n\nAs applications can be made online or via telephone, and a wide range of support is available, I have no plans to review the application process.","answerHtml":"Those claimants who require assistance with making an application to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme, can receive support through a dedicated telephone helpline, Jobs & Benefits offices, the Make the Call service and the Veterans Support Line NI.
My Department designed the application process to include a telephone line for claims, providing an accessible alternative for those unable to apply online.
As applications can be made online or via telephone, and a wide range of support is available, I have no plans to review the application process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052796%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500116"}},{"id":"500115","reference":"AQW 52795/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any assessment his Department has made of the impact of fluctuations in home heating oil prices when determining the expiry period for Home Heating Oil Support Scheme vouchers; and (ii) whether he will consider extending the validity period, to provide recipients with greater flexibility over when they purchase oil.","answerText":"When a claimant receives a hyperlink to access their Home Heating Oil Support Scheme digital pre-paid card, they have up to three months to activate the link. Once activated claimants have until the last day of the following month to use their card to buy oil. This provides significant flexibility in when the card can be used.\n\nAs claimants can have up to five months to redeem and use their card, there are no plans to extend the validity period.\n\nTo help make cost effective decisions when purchasing home heating oil, I would encourage people to contact the NI Energy Advice Service (NIEAS), funded by my department and delivered by the Housing Executive. This offers free and impartial advice including grant referrals, heating tips and oil buying savings. Applications to the Affordable Warmth Scheme can also be made through NIEAS. Further information is available at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/energy\n\nPeople can also check the Consumer Council's Home Heating Oil Price Checker which provides up-to-date pricing information from suppliers across Northern Ireland and can help customers identify the most competitive prices\n\navailable in their area. The Oil Price Checker is available at: https://www.consumercouncil.org.uk/home-heating/price-checker","answerHtml":"When a claimant receives a hyperlink to access their Home Heating Oil Support Scheme digital pre-paid card, they have up to three months to activate the link. Once activated claimants have until the last day of the following month to use their card to buy oil. This provides significant flexibility in when the card can be used.
As claimants can have up to five months to redeem and use their card, there are no plans to extend the validity period.
To help make cost effective decisions when purchasing home heating oil, I would encourage people to contact the NI Energy Advice Service (NIEAS), funded by my department and delivered by the Housing Executive. This offers free and impartial advice including grant referrals, heating tips and oil buying savings. Applications to the Affordable Warmth Scheme can also be made through NIEAS. Further information is available at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/energy
People can also check the Consumer Council's Home Heating Oil Price Checker which provides up-to-date pricing information from suppliers across Northern Ireland and can help customers identify the most competitive prices
available in their area. The Oil Price Checker is available at: https://www.consumercouncil.org.uk/home-heating/price-checker
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052795%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500115"}},{"id":"500114","reference":"AQW 52794/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any arrangements for when a Home Heating Oil Support Scheme voucher expires before it is used, including (i) whether the £100 entitlement is retained; (ii) whether a replacement voucher can be issued; and (iii) any action the recipient is required to take to obtain a replacement.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052794%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500114"}},{"id":"500113","reference":"AQW 52793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":"2026-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any arrangements in place for applicants to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme who (i) are unable to apply online; and (ii) are unable to access assistance through the telephone helpline.","answerText":"My Department has put in place a comprehensive range of support to assist people applying to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme. This includes a dedicated telephone helpline and face-to-face assistance through our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices across Northern Ireland. Wider departmental support services, including Make the Call and the Veterans Support Line NI, are also available for those who require additional assistance.\n\nOfficials have engaged extensively with colleagues across the advice sector to ensure appropriate support is available for anyone who may need help with the application process.\n\nThe application process has also been designed to enable trusted family members, carers, support workers and other representatives to assist applicants where required. This helps ensure that individuals are not excluded from accessing the support available to them.","answerHtml":"My Department has put in place a comprehensive range of support to assist people applying to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme. This includes a dedicated telephone helpline and face-to-face assistance through our 35 Jobs and Benefits offices across Northern Ireland. Wider departmental support services, including Make the Call and the Veterans Support Line NI, are also available for those who require additional assistance.
Officials have engaged extensively with colleagues across the advice sector to ensure appropriate support is available for anyone who may need help with the application process.
The application process has also been designed to enable trusted family members, carers, support workers and other representatives to assist applicants where required. This helps ensure that individuals are not excluded from accessing the support available to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500113"}},{"id":"500112","reference":"AQW 52792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-23","answerBy":"2026-10-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any assessment that has made of (a) waiting times; and (b) unanswered calls, to the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme helpline; and (ii) any action he is taking to ensure the helpline has sufficient capacity to meet demand.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=500112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=500112"}},{"id":"499726","reference":"AQW 52649/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-22","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any urgent action he is taking to resolve the teacher workload dispute and prevent industrial action commencing on 28 September 2026.","answerText":"I am concerned that the forthcoming industrial action will cause significant disruption in schools and I have urged the teaching unions to reconsider, and to give the additional time needed to secure a durable outcome for the profession, rather than returning to a course of action that serves no one's interests - least of all those of the children and young people our schools exist to serve.\n\nThere remains scope to reach a negotiated agreement without the need for industrial action. My Department remains committed to the process and indeed further discussions are scheduled directly with Northern Ireland Teaching Council representatives this week and also at the Labour Relations Agency on 28 September.\n\nThe negotiations are taking place through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) and departmental officials are directly involved in these discussions. Management Side of TNC remains fully committed to ongoing engagement with the teaching unions to reach an agreement without the need for further escalation. Management Side has also renewed its request for any action to be suspended to enable a full resolution to be agreed.","answerHtml":"I am concerned that the forthcoming industrial action will cause significant disruption in schools and I have urged the teaching unions to reconsider, and to give the additional time needed to secure a durable outcome for the profession, rather than returning to a course of action that serves no one's interests - least of all those of the children and young people our schools exist to serve.
There remains scope to reach a negotiated agreement without the need for industrial action. My Department remains committed to the process and indeed further discussions are scheduled directly with Northern Ireland Teaching Council representatives this week and also at the Labour Relations Agency on 28 September.
The negotiations are taking place through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC) and departmental officials are directly involved in these discussions. Management Side of TNC remains fully committed to ongoing engagement with the teaching unions to reach an agreement without the need for further escalation. Management Side has also renewed its request for any action to be suspended to enable a full resolution to be agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052649%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499726"}},{"id":"499725","reference":"AQW 52648/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-22","answerBy":"2026-10-07","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current mileage reimbursement arrangements for district nurses and Health and Social Care Trust-employed domiciliary care workers who use their own vehicles for work-related travel; (ii) when these arrangements were last reviewed; and (iii) any steps being taken in response to recent increases in fuel prices.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052648%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499725"}},{"id":"499724","reference":"AQW 52647/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-22","answerBy":"2026-10-07","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the potential impact of rising fuel costs on the ability of district nursing and domiciliary care services to provide timely care in the community, including any resulting impact on (i) Emergency Department attendances; and (ii) hospital admissions.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052647%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499724"}},{"id":"499723","reference":"AQW 52646/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-22","answerBy":"2026-10-07","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact of rising fuel costs on the capacity of (i) district nursing; and (ii) domiciliary care services to meet demand for care in the community, including in rural areas.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052646%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499723"}},{"id":"499722","reference":"AQW 52645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-22","answerBy":"2026-10-07","answered":"2026-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact of rising fuel costs on the ability of (i) district nurses; and (ii) domiciliary care workers, to use their own vehicles to travel between patients.","answerText":"The amount of funding that DAERA has allocated in letters of offer (LoO) to farm capital investment support schemes, in each of the last five complete calendar years, is detailed in the following table.\n\nFarm Business Improvement Scheme - Capital - Tier 1\tFarm Business Improvement Scheme - Capital - Tier 2\tEuropean Innovation Partnership (EIP) Operational Groups - Capital\nYear\tGrant Awarded in LoO\tGrant Awarded in LoO\tGrant Awarded in LoO\tTotal\n2021\t£16,766,605\t£172,851\t£75,576\t£17,015,032\n2022\t£0\t£851,423\t£0\t£851,423\n2023\t£11,462,764\t£17,236,269\t£0\t£28,699,033\n2024\t£0\t£312,115\t£0\t£312,115\n2025\t£0\t£0\t£0\t£0\nTotal\t£28,229,369\t£18,572,658\t£75,576\t£46,877,603","answerHtml":"The amount of funding that DAERA has allocated in letters of offer (LoO) to farm capital investment support schemes, in each of the last five complete calendar years, is detailed in the following table.
| Farm Business Improvement Scheme - Capital - Tier 1 | Farm Business Improvement Scheme - Capital - Tier 2 | European Innovation Partnership (EIP) Operational Groups - Capital | ||
| Year | Grant Awarded in LoO | Grant Awarded in LoO | Grant Awarded in LoO | Total |
| 2021 | £16,766,605 | £172,851 | £75,576 | £17,015,032 |
| 2022 | £0 | £851,423 | £0 | £851,423 |
| 2023 | £11,462,764 | £17,236,269 | £0 | £28,699,033 |
| 2024 | £0 | £312,115 | £0 | £312,115 |
| 2025 | £0 | £0 | £0 | £0 |
| Total | £28,229,369 | £18,572,658 | £75,576 | £46,877,603 |
In 2025/26, I ensured that upon confirmation of the budget in June, the Housing Executive was able to issue letters of offer to funded organisations for the full financial year.
In addition to the £4.3m available for community prevention activity, I also introduced a ringfenced allocation of £2.5m for strategic homelessness prevention.
At present, no Executive Budget has been agreed for 2026/27. In the interim, Resource Departmental Expenditure Limit allocations based on 2025/26 opening baselines have been issued to delivery partners and Arm’s Length Bodies, including the Housing Executive, to cover the period April to December 2026 and support the continuation of key programmes, including homelessness prevention services.
Despite the absence of an agreed budget, ringfenced funding for Strategic Prevention has been maintained within NIHE’s interim allocation for 2026/27. While funding for Community Prevention and Support Initiatives is not ringfenced, I have ensured that it has been protected at the same level as in 2025/26.
I also circulated an Executive paper seeking additional funding to ensure homelessness services, including community and strategic prevention initiatives can be adequately and sustainably funded. However, the First Minister has not allowed this on the agenda.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052519%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499511","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499511"}},{"id":"499510","reference":"AQW 52518/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-21","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":"2026-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether funding for the (i) Strategic Prevention Programme; and (ii) Community Homelessness Prevention, will continue to be ringfenced in the 2026-27 financial year.","answerText":"Funding for Strategic Prevention is ringfenced within the Housing Executive’s interim budget allocation in 2026/27.\n\nWhile funding for Community Prevention and Support Initiatives is not ringfenced within the budget allocation, I have taken tough decisions to ensure it has been protected at the same level as in 2025/26.\n\nI also circulated an Executive paper seeking additional funding to ensure homelessness services, including community and strategic prevention initiatives can be adequately and sustainably funded. However, this has not been agreed.","answerHtml":"Funding for Strategic Prevention is ringfenced within the Housing Executive’s interim budget allocation in 2026/27.
While funding for Community Prevention and Support Initiatives is not ringfenced within the budget allocation, I have taken tough decisions to ensure it has been protected at the same level as in 2025/26.
I also circulated an Executive paper seeking additional funding to ensure homelessness services, including community and strategic prevention initiatives can be adequately and sustainably funded. However, this has not been agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052518%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499510","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499510"}},{"id":"499509","reference":"AQW 52517/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-21","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any funding arrangements currently in place for organisations funded through the (i) Strategic Prevention Programme; and (ii) Community Homelessness Prevention, including whether funding allocations are provided on an annual, quarterly or monthly basis.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive currently supports a range of projects and services through the Strategic Prevention Programme and Community Homelessness Prevention. At present, funding has been confirmed for these services up to the end of Q3 with any confirmation of funding beyond this reliant on confirmation of funding for 2026/27 or, in the absence of this, the Housing Executive committing to such funding at risk and this will be considered in due course with regard to the wider budgetary situation.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive currently supports a range of projects and services through the Strategic Prevention Programme and Community Homelessness Prevention. At present, funding has been confirmed for these services up to the end of Q3 with any confirmation of funding beyond this reliant on confirmation of funding for 2026/27 or, in the absence of this, the Housing Executive committing to such funding at risk and this will be considered in due course with regard to the wider budgetary situation.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052517%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499509","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499509"}},{"id":"499508","reference":"AQW 52516/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-21","answerBy":"2026-10-06","answered":"2026-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any action his Department is taking to reduce the use of non-standard temporary accommodation, including any targets and timescales in place for reducing its use.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The Accommodation Solutions Group is making significant progress in expanding our portfolio of temporary accommodation, with the aim of reducing our use and expenditure on non-standard accommodation. Efforts to reduce the use of non-standard are evidenced by the acquisition of 1,391 units of temporary accommodation across options such as HMOs, Single Lets and Voluntary Sector Hostels since November 2023. Additionally, the Housing Executive has exited 13 non-standard premises in order to improve value for money.\n\nAs part of our Business Plan for 2026/27 the Housing Executive has made a commitment that, within the life of this Corporate Strategy, to develop a credible plan with the Department for Communities, reflected in business plan targets, for reducing reliance on temporary accommodation, over time.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows:
“The Accommodation Solutions Group is making significant progress in expanding our portfolio of temporary accommodation, with the aim of reducing our use and expenditure on non-standard accommodation. Efforts to reduce the use of non-standard are evidenced by the acquisition of 1,391 units of temporary accommodation across options such as HMOs, Single Lets and Voluntary Sector Hostels since November 2023. Additionally, the Housing Executive has exited 13 non-standard premises in order to improve value for money.
As part of our Business Plan for 2026/27 the Housing Executive has made a commitment that, within the life of this Corporate Strategy, to develop a credible plan with the Department for Communities, reflected in business plan targets, for reducing reliance on temporary accommodation, over time.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052516%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499508","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499508"}},{"id":"499271","reference":"AQW 52399/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) all (a) maintenance; and (b) repair works, undertaken at Kilrea Bridge, in the ten years prior to its closure in September 2025; (ii) the cost of each scheme; and (iii) any structural concerns identified during inspections over that period.","answerText":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.\n\nKilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.\n\nPrior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.\n\nAs elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.\n\nNo formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.\n\nI understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.
Kilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.
Prior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.
As elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.
No formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.
I understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052399%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499271","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499271"}},{"id":"499270","reference":"AQW 52398/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the final cost of the repair works undertaken at Kilrea Bridge, following its closure in September 2025, including expenditure on (i) site (a) investigations; and (b) design; (ii) temporary stabilisation works; (iii) permanent structural repairs; (iv) traffic management; and (v) any other associated works.","answerText":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.\n\nKilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.\n\nPrior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.\n\nAs elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.\n\nNo formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.\n\nI understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.
Kilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.
Prior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.
As elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.
No formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.
I understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052398%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499270"}},{"id":"499269","reference":"AQW 52397/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on any work undertaken by her Department to assess the feasibility of replacing Kilrea Bridge, including any (i) consideration of potential options; (ii) estimated costs; and (iii) timescales.","answerText":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.\n\nKilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.\n\nPrior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.\n\nAs elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.\n\nNo formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.\n\nI understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.
Kilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.
Prior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.
As elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.
No formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.
I understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052397%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499269","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499269"}},{"id":"499268","reference":"AQW 52396/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any assessment that has been made of the remaining service life of the Kilrea Bridge, following completion of the recent repair works; (ii) any further works identified as necessary; (iii) the anticipated cost of these works; and (iv) the inspection and monitoring arrangements that will be in place.","answerText":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.\n\nKilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.\n\nPrior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.\n\nAs elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.\n\nNo formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.\n\nI understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.
Kilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.
Prior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.
As elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.
No formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.
I understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052396%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499268","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499268"}},{"id":"499267","reference":"AQW 52395/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-18","answerBy":"2026-10-05","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any (i) assessment her Department has undertaken of the impact of the closure of the Kilrea Bridge, between September 2025 and February 2026, on (a) traffic volumes on diversionary routes; (b) journey times; (c) public transport services; and (d) local businesses and communities; and (ii) any lessons that have been identified for managing any future closure of the bridge.","answerText":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.\n\nKilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.\n\nPrior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.\n\nAs elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.\n\nNo formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.\n\nI understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the significant impact that the closure of Kilrea Bridge had on local residents, businesses and the wider Kilrea community and am pleased that following completion of the repair works, Kilrea Bridge remains in satisfactory condition and has reopened without the weight restrictions necessary during the works.
Kilrea Bridge is a substantial historic masonry structure, and whilst no specific remaining service life has been assigned, the bridge will continue to be managed through the Department's routine inspection regime, with general inspections normally undertaken every two years and principal inspections every six years. Additional monitoring will be undertaken where necessary and with no further works identified, it is likely that the bridge will continue to provide a service to the local community for many years.
Prior to the bridge’s closure, the most significant maintenance intervention undertaken was a refurbishment scheme to address corrosion on the northern steel span which was completed in 2022 at an approximate cost of £275,000. The works included waterproofing, resurfacing, steelwork repairs and repainting, parapet replacement, associated masonry repairs and installation of bollards. Additional masonry repairs were undertaken in 2024 following a road traffic collision at an approximate cost of £4,000.
As elements of the most recent repair scheme remain subject to final account agreement, the final outturn cost of the works and a detailed breakdown of expenditure are not yet available. However, based on current estimates, the total cost of the works is expected to be in the region of £950,000. As part of a routine inspection, prior to the most recent closure of the bridge, officials noted deterioration of the south west retaining wall. This work was included as part of the repair works undertaken during the most recent September 2025 closure.
No formal assessment was undertaken of the impact of the closure on traffic volumes, journey times, public transport services, or local businesses and communities.
I understand there is increasing local interest in a replacement bridge, including a recent Council motion supporting its inclusion in the emerging Local Development Plan. This is the vehicle to take forward a new bridge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052395%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499267"}},{"id":"499064","reference":"AQW 52269/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current operating hours of mental health crisis response services, in each Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) any anticipated timeframe for the provision of 24-hour, seven-day-a-week mental health crisis response services across all Trusts.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052269%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499064"}},{"id":"499063","reference":"AQW 52268/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any assessment has been undertaken of the capacity of mental health services to respond to the phased implementation of Right Care, Right Person; and (ii) to detail any additional staffing, service provision or funding identified as required.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052268%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499063","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499063"}},{"id":"499062","reference":"AQW 52267/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any agreed pathways between health services and the PSNI for responding to people experiencing a mental health crisis under Right Care, Right Person, including how accountability for responding will be determined.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052267%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499062","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499062"}},{"id":"499061","reference":"AQW 52266/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the average time taken for the transfer of responsibility from PSNI officers to health and social care staff for people presenting at Emergency Departments in mental health crisis, broken down by Trust; and (ii) any steps being taken to reduce delays.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052266%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499061","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499061"}},{"id":"499060","reference":"AQW 52265/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-17","answerBy":"2026-10-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any anticipated timeframe for the resumption of routine publication of Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services waiting-time statistics; and (ii) whether routine waiting-time statistics for Adult Mental Health Services will be published.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052265%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=499060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=499060"}},{"id":"498792","reference":"AQW 52139/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, following publication of the Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026, to detail (i) any assessment she has made of progress against the Strategy's four principal targets and 33 key performance indicators; (ii) which targets are currently off track; (ii) any additional interventions that will be introduced in response; and (iii) whether the Action Plan to 2027 will be revised.","answerText":"I have noted progress against the four principal targets and 33 key performance indicators contained in the Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026.\n\nThe report (based on 2025 data) indicates that the target for reducing fatalities is on track. It also indicates that the targets for reducing serious injuries, child KSIs and young person KSIs are currently below target. However, the latest PSNI Road Traffic Collision Statistics for 2026 show that 48 people have been killed this year compared to 35 at the same date in 2025.\n\nHaving noted the position in the Annual Statistical reports, and the latest figures, I have committed £972,500 to enable the re-launch of key road safety advertising campaigns, ensuring that vital messages continue to reach road users while longer-term budget decisions are being considered.\n\nThe work of the Road Safety Action Plan to 2027 itself also continues at pace. I have prioritised those Strategic Interventions that will impact road safety across several areas, including amongst others, policy and legislation, enforcement, communication and awareness, and active travel.\n\nLatest recent Key Strategic Interventions in the plan aimed at reducing number road users killed or seriously injured in the include:\n\nThe introduction Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) in October.\n\nThe Safer Journeys to Schools (SJS) programme to deliver measures to reduce fatalities and serious injuries involving schoolchildren when they are boarding or getting off buses.\n\nOther planned key actions will be consultations on lowering the legal alcohol limit and modernising drug driving laws, preparing the way forward following the recent consultation on the illegal use of mobile phones when driving, examining options for increasing speeding fines, and the development of new scheme proposals on the Regional Strategic Transport Network, targeting those routes with highest collisions.\n\nThe Road Safety Action Plan to 2027 is currently due for review in March 2027. In the meantime, I will continue to monitor progress against agreed targets and react appropriately where possible.\n\nI continue to work closely with other Departments and agencies to explore further opportunities to work together on road safety issues. In addition, through the Road Safety Strategic Forum, my officials continue to collaborate with ‘Blue Light’ organisations and other departments to progress the actions of the Road Safety Strategy.","answerHtml":"I have noted progress against the four principal targets and 33 key performance indicators contained in the Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026.
The report (based on 2025 data) indicates that the target for reducing fatalities is on track. It also indicates that the targets for reducing serious injuries, child KSIs and young person KSIs are currently below target. However, the latest PSNI Road Traffic Collision Statistics for 2026 show that 48 people have been killed this year compared to 35 at the same date in 2025.
Having noted the position in the Annual Statistical reports, and the latest figures, I have committed £972,500 to enable the re-launch of key road safety advertising campaigns, ensuring that vital messages continue to reach road users while longer-term budget decisions are being considered.
The work of the Road Safety Action Plan to 2027 itself also continues at pace. I have prioritised those Strategic Interventions that will impact road safety across several areas, including amongst others, policy and legislation, enforcement, communication and awareness, and active travel.
Latest recent Key Strategic Interventions in the plan aimed at reducing number road users killed or seriously injured in the include:
The introduction Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) in October.
The Safer Journeys to Schools (SJS) programme to deliver measures to reduce fatalities and serious injuries involving schoolchildren when they are boarding or getting off buses.
Other planned key actions will be consultations on lowering the legal alcohol limit and modernising drug driving laws, preparing the way forward following the recent consultation on the illegal use of mobile phones when driving, examining options for increasing speeding fines, and the development of new scheme proposals on the Regional Strategic Transport Network, targeting those routes with highest collisions.
The Road Safety Action Plan to 2027 is currently due for review in March 2027. In the meantime, I will continue to monitor progress against agreed targets and react appropriately where possible.
I continue to work closely with other Departments and agencies to explore further opportunities to work together on road safety issues. In addition, through the Road Safety Strategic Forum, my officials continue to collaborate with ‘Blue Light’ organisations and other departments to progress the actions of the Road Safety Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052139%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498792","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498792"}},{"id":"498791","reference":"AQW 52138/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any process for identifying rural roads that require road safety intervention, including (i) any criteria for further assessment; (ii) how the severity, frequency and pattern of collisions are weighted; (iii) how issues raised by local communities, elected representatives and other stakeholders are considered; and (iv) how interventions are prioritised for delivery.","answerText":"Road Safety is a high priority for my Department, and we are committed to working proactively to make our roads safer and to address the needs of all road users. With approximately 90% of our road network being classed as “B”, “C” or “U” roads, rural roads are a keen focus for analysis and improvement initiatives.\n\nMy Department takes an evidence-led and risk-based approach to identifying where road safety interventions are required, including on the rural road network. This approach is informed by road traffic collision data provided by the PSNI, local knowledge from communities, elected representatives and stakeholders, and the professional judgement of my officials. Collision trends, including the frequency, severity and pattern of collisions, are analysed to help identify locations where engineering interventions are most likely to reduce risk and deliver the greatest road safety benefit.\n\nThis work is aligned with the Safe System approach set out in my Department’s Road Safety Strategy to 2030, which recognises that road safety is strengthened through safer roads and roadsides, safer speeds, safer vehicles and safer road users. Within this framework, interventions are prioritised where there is clear evidence of safety need and where measures can bring meaningful road safety benefits.\n\nIn January 2026 I launched the latest Action Plan that supports the Strategy, setting out 11 Strategic Interventions that aim to make the biggest impact to the current and emerging road safety issues.","answerHtml":"Road Safety is a high priority for my Department, and we are committed to working proactively to make our roads safer and to address the needs of all road users. With approximately 90% of our road network being classed as “B”, “C” or “U” roads, rural roads are a keen focus for analysis and improvement initiatives.
My Department takes an evidence-led and risk-based approach to identifying where road safety interventions are required, including on the rural road network. This approach is informed by road traffic collision data provided by the PSNI, local knowledge from communities, elected representatives and stakeholders, and the professional judgement of my officials. Collision trends, including the frequency, severity and pattern of collisions, are analysed to help identify locations where engineering interventions are most likely to reduce risk and deliver the greatest road safety benefit.
This work is aligned with the Safe System approach set out in my Department’s Road Safety Strategy to 2030, which recognises that road safety is strengthened through safer roads and roadsides, safer speeds, safer vehicles and safer road users. Within this framework, interventions are prioritised where there is clear evidence of safety need and where measures can bring meaningful road safety benefits.
In January 2026 I launched the latest Action Plan that supports the Strategy, setting out 11 Strategic Interventions that aim to make the biggest impact to the current and emerging road safety issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052138%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498791","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498791"}},{"id":"498790","reference":"AQW 52137/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, following publication of the 2026 Speed Limit Review Response Report, to detail (i) any policy changes she intends to progress; (ii) any timeframe for decisions on the (a) 20mph speed limits; and (b) national speed limits on single-carriageway rural roads; and (iii) whether any legislative changes arising from the review will be brought forward during the remainder of the 2022-27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"I was pleased to publish the 2026 Speed Limit Review Response Report, which set out the findings of the recently undertaken public consultation. The responses received provided valuable evidence and insight into the potential impacts of speed limit changes on road safety, active travel, accessibility and local communities.\n\nMy officials are continuing to review the consultation findings alongside relevant technical evidence including road safety, operational and equality considerations, while engaging with key stakeholders and delivery partners to assess the potential impact, feasibility, and effectiveness of any proposed measures. This work will help identify where targeted, evidence-led speed management interventions, supported by complementary education, engineering and enforcement measures, can deliver the greatest safety benefits. Any resulting policy change will be taken forward following careful consideration of the available data.\n\nWhile the timeframe for progressing primary or secondary legislation within the remainder of this mandate is limited, my Department will continue to take forward the detailed policy, technical and stakeholder work needed to inform future speed limit decisions. This will ensure that any proposals arising from the review are evidence-led, deliverable, and capable of being progressed as effectively as possible when legislative time allows.","answerHtml":"I was pleased to publish the 2026 Speed Limit Review Response Report, which set out the findings of the recently undertaken public consultation. The responses received provided valuable evidence and insight into the potential impacts of speed limit changes on road safety, active travel, accessibility and local communities.
My officials are continuing to review the consultation findings alongside relevant technical evidence including road safety, operational and equality considerations, while engaging with key stakeholders and delivery partners to assess the potential impact, feasibility, and effectiveness of any proposed measures. This work will help identify where targeted, evidence-led speed management interventions, supported by complementary education, engineering and enforcement measures, can deliver the greatest safety benefits. Any resulting policy change will be taken forward following careful consideration of the available data.
While the timeframe for progressing primary or secondary legislation within the remainder of this mandate is limited, my Department will continue to take forward the detailed policy, technical and stakeholder work needed to inform future speed limit decisions. This will ensure that any proposals arising from the review are evidence-led, deliverable, and capable of being progressed as effectively as possible when legislative time allows.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052137%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498790","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498790"}},{"id":"498789","reference":"AQW 52136/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any expenditure on road safety measures, in each of the last three years, broken down by (a) education and public information campaigns; (b) road engineering and infrastructure interventions; (c) research and data analysis; and (d) other measures; and (ii) how evidence of effectiveness informs the allocation of road safety funding.","answerText":"(i) The table below details the expenditure on road safety measures in each of the last three years broken down by (a) education and public information campaigns; (b) road engineering and infrastructure interventions; (c) research and data analysis; and (d) other measures.\n\n2023-24\n£’k\t2024-25\n£’k\t2025-26*\n£’k\nEducation and public information campaigns\t478\t895\t2,492**\nRoad Engineering and infrastructure interventions\t15,728\t15,760\t17,286\nResearch and data analysis***\t-\t-\t33\nOther measures\t-\t-\t-\n\n* 2025-26 outturn is provisional and subject to audit finalisation.\n\n** Includes £500k sponsorship funded by the Road Safety Partnership in 2025-26.\n\n***This represents advertising expenditure, which incorporates benchmarking and performance tracking costs.\n\n(ii) My Department’s road safety initiatives are designed to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on our roads. All campaigns are grounded in evidence-based research, focusing on road safety challenges, public attitudes, and strategies to influence unsafe behaviours. My Department has engaged a professional advertising agency, who use specialised tools to identify groups by age and gender who are watching or listening to which programmes on which platform. This enables us to ensure campaigns reach the people they are designed to influence.","answerHtml":"(i) The table below details the expenditure on road safety measures in each of the last three years broken down by (a) education and public information campaigns; (b) road engineering and infrastructure interventions; (c) research and data analysis; and (d) other measures.
| 2023-24 £’k | 2024-25 £’k | 2025-26* £’k | |
| Education and public information campaigns | 478 | 895 | 2,492** |
| Road Engineering and infrastructure interventions | 15,728 | 15,760 | 17,286 |
| Research and data analysis*** | - | - | 33 |
| Other measures | - | - | - |
* 2025-26 outturn is provisional and subject to audit finalisation.
** Includes £500k sponsorship funded by the Road Safety Partnership in 2025-26.
***This represents advertising expenditure, which incorporates benchmarking and performance tracking costs.
(ii) My Department’s road safety initiatives are designed to reduce fatalities and serious injuries on our roads. All campaigns are grounded in evidence-based research, focusing on road safety challenges, public attitudes, and strategies to influence unsafe behaviours. My Department has engaged a professional advertising agency, who use specialised tools to identify groups by age and gender who are watching or listening to which programmes on which platform. This enables us to ensure campaigns reach the people they are designed to influence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052136%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498789"}},{"id":"498788","reference":"AQW 52135/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-16","answerBy":"2026-10-01","answered":"2026-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any action she is taking to reduce the number of vulnerable road users killed or seriously injured; and (ii) any measures targeting pedestrians, cyclists and motorcyclists, including how they are prioritised and evaluated.","answerText":"The Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030 includes several targets aimed at reducing the number of vulnerable road users killed or seriously injured. The strategy was prepared following consultations with several key stake holders including the Motorcycle Action Group - UK (MAG), and Sustrans (now called the WalkWheel Cycle Trust).\n\nI have noted progress against the four principal targets and 33 key performance indicators contained in the Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026.\n\nThe report (based on 2025 data) indicates that the target for reducing fatalities is on track. It also indicates that the targets for reducing serious injuries, child KSIs and young person KSIs are currently below target. However, the latest PSNI Road Traffic Collision Statistics for 2026 show that 48 people have been killed this year compared to 35 at the same date in 2025.\n\nEvaluation of the latest Progress on agreed targets in the Road Safety Strategy can be found in the Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026 published in August 2026.\n\nThe work of the latest Road Safety Action Plan to 2027, which supports the Road Safety Strategy, continues at pace. I continue to prioritise those Strategic Interventions that will impact road safety across several areas, including amongst others, policy and legislation, enforcement, communication and awareness, and active travel.\n\nLatest recent Key Strategic Interventions in the plan aimed at reducing number road users killed or seriously injured in the include:\n\nThe introduction Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) in October.\n\nThe Safer Journeys to Schools (SJS) programme to deliver measures to reduce fatalities and serious injuries involving schoolchildren when they are boarding or getting off buses.\n\nOther planned key actions will be consultations on lowering the legal alcohol limit and modernising drug driving laws, preparing the way forward following the recent consultation on the illegal use of mobile phones when driving, examining options for increasing speeding fines, and the development of new scheme proposals on the Regional Strategic Transport Network, targeting those routes with highest collisions.\n\nRoad Safety advertising priorities are also determined by evidence and statistics relating to the main causation factors behind people being Killed or Seriously Injured (KSI). Campaigns are therefore commissioned or aired addressing causation factors where data indicates they will have the greatest impact in reducing KSI.\n\nI have not yet taken final budget decisions for 2026-27, however, given the recent increase in road deaths, I have already committed £972,500 to enable the re-launch of key road safety advertising campaigns, ensuring that vital messages continue to reach road users while longer-term budget decisions are being considered.\n\nAs an immediate measure to ensure that road safety messages continue to reach as many road users as possible, I committed to re-launch both Motorcyclist campaigns, Bike Speed and Bike Aware, which focus on and motorcyclist safety. These campaigns ran during April and May and have now concluded.\n\nDuring the summer period the Pedestrian campaigns were on air and have also now ended.\n\nThe campaign entitled ‘Be Bold Be Seen’, aimed at encouraging pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users to wear bold, bright or high-visibility clothing during the darker months is scheduled to be delivered via bus rear advertising and our social media channels in the coming months.\n\nThe Road Safety Action Plan to 2027 is currently due for review in March 2027. In the meantime, I will continue to monitor progress against agreed targets and react appropriately where possible.\n\nI also continue to work closely with other Departments and agencies to explore further opportunities to work together on road safety issues. In addition, through the Road Safety Strategic Forum, my officials continue to collaborate with ‘Blue Light’ organisations and other departments to progress the actions of the Road Safety Strategy.","answerHtml":"The Road Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland to 2030 includes several targets aimed at reducing the number of vulnerable road users killed or seriously injured. The strategy was prepared following consultations with several key stake holders including the Motorcycle Action Group - UK (MAG), and Sustrans (now called the WalkWheel Cycle Trust).
I have noted progress against the four principal targets and 33 key performance indicators contained in the Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026.
The report (based on 2025 data) indicates that the target for reducing fatalities is on track. It also indicates that the targets for reducing serious injuries, child KSIs and young person KSIs are currently below target. However, the latest PSNI Road Traffic Collision Statistics for 2026 show that 48 people have been killed this year compared to 35 at the same date in 2025.
Evaluation of the latest Progress on agreed targets in the Road Safety Strategy can be found in the Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy to 2030 Annual Statistical Report 2026 published in August 2026.
The work of the latest Road Safety Action Plan to 2027, which supports the Road Safety Strategy, continues at pace. I continue to prioritise those Strategic Interventions that will impact road safety across several areas, including amongst others, policy and legislation, enforcement, communication and awareness, and active travel.
Latest recent Key Strategic Interventions in the plan aimed at reducing number road users killed or seriously injured in the include:
The introduction Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) in October.
The Safer Journeys to Schools (SJS) programme to deliver measures to reduce fatalities and serious injuries involving schoolchildren when they are boarding or getting off buses.
Other planned key actions will be consultations on lowering the legal alcohol limit and modernising drug driving laws, preparing the way forward following the recent consultation on the illegal use of mobile phones when driving, examining options for increasing speeding fines, and the development of new scheme proposals on the Regional Strategic Transport Network, targeting those routes with highest collisions.
Road Safety advertising priorities are also determined by evidence and statistics relating to the main causation factors behind people being Killed or Seriously Injured (KSI). Campaigns are therefore commissioned or aired addressing causation factors where data indicates they will have the greatest impact in reducing KSI.
I have not yet taken final budget decisions for 2026-27, however, given the recent increase in road deaths, I have already committed £972,500 to enable the re-launch of key road safety advertising campaigns, ensuring that vital messages continue to reach road users while longer-term budget decisions are being considered.
As an immediate measure to ensure that road safety messages continue to reach as many road users as possible, I committed to re-launch both Motorcyclist campaigns, Bike Speed and Bike Aware, which focus on and motorcyclist safety. These campaigns ran during April and May and have now concluded.
During the summer period the Pedestrian campaigns were on air and have also now ended.
The campaign entitled ‘Be Bold Be Seen’, aimed at encouraging pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable road users to wear bold, bright or high-visibility clothing during the darker months is scheduled to be delivered via bus rear advertising and our social media channels in the coming months.
The Road Safety Action Plan to 2027 is currently due for review in March 2027. In the meantime, I will continue to monitor progress against agreed targets and react appropriately where possible.
I also continue to work closely with other Departments and agencies to explore further opportunities to work together on road safety issues. In addition, through the Road Safety Strategic Forum, my officials continue to collaborate with ‘Blue Light’ organisations and other departments to progress the actions of the Road Safety Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052135%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498788"}},{"id":"498431","reference":"AQW 51985/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery at Causeway Hospital, to detail (i) any assessment undertaken of the potential impact on emergency gynaecology services; and (ii) any assessment undertaken of the potential impact on access to emergency theatre facilities for gynaecological patients.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051985%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498431"}},{"id":"498430","reference":"AQW 51984/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to Causeway Hospital, to detail (i) the current trauma bypass arrangements; (ii) the categories of patients who are conveyed directly to another hospital rather than the Causeway Hospital Emergency Department under these arrangements; and (iii) any proposed changes to these arrangements in connection with the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051984%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498430"}},{"id":"498429","reference":"AQW 51983/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of children who required emergency surgical intervention at Causeway Hospital, in each of the last three years; and (ii) any assessment undertaken of the potential impact of the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery on the sustainability of inpatient paediatric services at the hospital.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051983%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498429"}},{"id":"498428","reference":"AQW 51982/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to emergency gynaecological presentations at Causeway Hospital, to detail (i) the current arrangements for patients requiring emergency intervention, including for ruptured ectopic pregnancy and significant post-operative haemorrhage; and (ii) the number of patients transferred to Antrim Area Hospital outside normal working hours, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051982%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498428","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498428"}},{"id":"498427","reference":"AQW 51981/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-15","answerBy":"2026-09-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery at Causeway Hospital, to detail (i) whether operating theatre capacity would continue to be available on a 24 hour basis; and (ii) any specialties that currently make use of emergency theatre capacity outside normal working hours.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051981%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498427"}},{"id":"498174","reference":"AQW 51851/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-18","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any engagement she has had with Ulster University regarding the potential for compulsory redundancies; (ii) any assurances sought regarding the protection of jobs; (ii) any assessment made of the potential impact on the University's multi-campus model; and (iii) any action her Department will take in response.","answerText":"Ulster University has announced the commencement of a process inviting applications under a voluntary redundancy scheme. Ulster University is an autonomous institution and decisions relating to staffing are a matter for the University.\n\nMy Department continues to engage with the University and I would encourage the University to continue its constructive engagement with Trade Unions. I hope that any compulsory redundancies will be avoided.\n\nIt is still too early in the process to fully assess or quantify the impact on any individual campus or the University’s multi-campus model. I recognise the additional challenges and costs associated with the University's multi-campus delivery model and my Department has commissioned independent analysis to examine those costs. I am seeking additional funding as part of the budget negotiations.\n\nI recognise that this will be an uncertain and worrying time for staff. I remain committed to securing a sustainable future for our higher education sector.","answerHtml":"Ulster University has announced the commencement of a process inviting applications under a voluntary redundancy scheme. Ulster University is an autonomous institution and decisions relating to staffing are a matter for the University.
My Department continues to engage with the University and I would encourage the University to continue its constructive engagement with Trade Unions. I hope that any compulsory redundancies will be avoided.
It is still too early in the process to fully assess or quantify the impact on any individual campus or the University’s multi-campus model. I recognise the additional challenges and costs associated with the University's multi-campus delivery model and my Department has commissioned independent analysis to examine those costs. I am seeking additional funding as part of the budget negotiations.
I recognise that this will be an uncertain and worrying time for staff. I remain committed to securing a sustainable future for our higher education sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051851%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498174","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498174"}},{"id":"498173","reference":"AQW 51850/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in response to recent increases in petrol and diesel prices, to detail any engagement she has had with the (i) Consumer Council; (ii) Competition and Markets Authority; and (iii) UK Government, including any actions arising from this engagement.","answerText":"Departmental officials have engaged with the CMA and the Consumer Council on matters relating to the home heating oil market, including the CMA's recent market study. However, this work did not concern petrol or diesel pricing.\n\nRecent increases in petrol and diesel prices have been driven by international market factors and responsibility for investigating competition concerns in the road fuel market rests with the CMA. The CMA has stated they will continue to monitor wholesale and retail price correlation.\n\nAccordingly, no actions have arisen from engagement on recent petrol and diesel price increases.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials have engaged with the CMA and the Consumer Council on matters relating to the home heating oil market, including the CMA's recent market study. However, this work did not concern petrol or diesel pricing.
Recent increases in petrol and diesel prices have been driven by international market factors and responsibility for investigating competition concerns in the road fuel market rests with the CMA. The CMA has stated they will continue to monitor wholesale and retail price correlation.
Accordingly, no actions have arisen from engagement on recent petrol and diesel price increases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051850%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498173"}},{"id":"498172","reference":"AQW 51849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any representations she has made to HM Treasury regarding the scheduled increase in fuel duty from January 2027; and (ii) whether she has sought a further extension of the existing five pence per litre reduction, in light of recent increases in petrol and diesel prices.","answerText":"Recent increases in petrol and diesel prices have added to the financial pressures facing many households and businesses across the North, particularly those with limited ability to absorb higher costs.\n\nGiven these concerns, I wrote to the British Government in April highlighting the significant impact that rising fuel prices are having on consumers and businesses here. In that correspondence, I noted that many households and businesses in the North are particularly exposed to increases in fuel costs due to a reliance on private transport and the limited availability of public transport in some areas.\n\nI also highlighted the impact on businesses, many of which have seen operating costs rise sharply as a result of increased fuel prices. Sectors such as transport, logistics, agriculture and construction are especially vulnerable to these pressures, which can affect competitiveness and add further inflationary pressures across the wider economy.\n\nIn light of these circumstances, I called on the British Government to take action by reducing fuel duty and to reconsider any planned increases in fuel duty while fuel prices remain elevated. I also drew attention to measures introduced by the Irish Government to reduce fuel taxes and the positive response these measures received from consumers and businesses.\n\nI will continue to engage with the British Government and make the case that the impact of fuel price increases on households and businesses across the North should be fully considered when decisions are being taken on fuel duty policy.","answerHtml":"Recent increases in petrol and diesel prices have added to the financial pressures facing many households and businesses across the North, particularly those with limited ability to absorb higher costs.
Given these concerns, I wrote to the British Government in April highlighting the significant impact that rising fuel prices are having on consumers and businesses here. In that correspondence, I noted that many households and businesses in the North are particularly exposed to increases in fuel costs due to a reliance on private transport and the limited availability of public transport in some areas.
I also highlighted the impact on businesses, many of which have seen operating costs rise sharply as a result of increased fuel prices. Sectors such as transport, logistics, agriculture and construction are especially vulnerable to these pressures, which can affect competitiveness and add further inflationary pressures across the wider economy.
In light of these circumstances, I called on the British Government to take action by reducing fuel duty and to reconsider any planned increases in fuel duty while fuel prices remain elevated. I also drew attention to measures introduced by the Irish Government to reduce fuel taxes and the positive response these measures received from consumers and businesses.
I will continue to engage with the British Government and make the case that the impact of fuel price increases on households and businesses across the North should be fully considered when decisions are being taken on fuel duty policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498172","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498172"}},{"id":"498171","reference":"AQW 51848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of the impact of recent increases in petrol and diesel prices on (i) households in rural areas; (ii) people who rely on private vehicles to access employment and essential services; and (iii) rural businesses.","answerText":"I am keenly aware of the impact that recent increases in petrol and diesel prices are having on households and businesses across the North, particularly in rural areas where 78% of people would find it difficult to switch to an alternative method of transport and are more reliant on private vehicles for work, education, healthcare and other essential services.\n\nRising fuel prices can also increase operating costs for rural businesses, particularly those in sectors such as transport, logistics, construction, agriculture and other activities where transport is a significant component of day-to-day operations.\n\nI will continue to ensure that the challenges arising for households and businesses across the North from increases in petrol and diesel prices are reflected in my engagement with the British Government and other stakeholders on the wider cost pressures they are facing.","answerHtml":"I am keenly aware of the impact that recent increases in petrol and diesel prices are having on households and businesses across the North, particularly in rural areas where 78% of people would find it difficult to switch to an alternative method of transport and are more reliant on private vehicles for work, education, healthcare and other essential services.
Rising fuel prices can also increase operating costs for rural businesses, particularly those in sectors such as transport, logistics, construction, agriculture and other activities where transport is a significant component of day-to-day operations.
I will continue to ensure that the challenges arising for households and businesses across the North from increases in petrol and diesel prices are reflected in my engagement with the British Government and other stakeholders on the wider cost pressures they are facing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498171","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498171"}},{"id":"498170","reference":"AQW 51847/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-14","answerBy":"2026-09-29","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of recent increases in petrol and diesel prices in Northern Ireland, including the extent to which they reflect changes in (i) wholesale fuel costs; (ii) retailer margins; and (iii) distribution costs.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the pressure that recent increases in petrol and diesel prices have placed on households, commuters and businesses across the North. Higher fuel costs can have a significant impact on household budgets, while also increasing operating costs for businesses, particularly those in transport, logistics, construction, agriculture and other sectors that rely heavily on fuel.\n\nWhile my Department does not undertake detailed assessments of the individual contributions of wholesale fuel costs, retailer margins or distribution costs to changes in pump prices, the Consumer Council does monitor retail fuel prices across the North through its Fuel Price Checker service. This helps provide insight into trends in fuel prices and regional variations, while also supporting greater transparency for consumers.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the pressure that recent increases in petrol and diesel prices have placed on households, commuters and businesses across the North. Higher fuel costs can have a significant impact on household budgets, while also increasing operating costs for businesses, particularly those in transport, logistics, construction, agriculture and other sectors that rely heavily on fuel.
While my Department does not undertake detailed assessments of the individual contributions of wholesale fuel costs, retailer margins or distribution costs to changes in pump prices, the Consumer Council does monitor retail fuel prices across the North through its Fuel Price Checker service. This helps provide insight into trends in fuel prices and regional variations, while also supporting greater transparency for consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051847%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498170","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498170"}},{"id":"497964","reference":"AQW 51722/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any assessment her Department has made of whether the current planning policy for wind energy development, adequately reflects (i) the increased height and scale of modern turbines; (ii) cumulative landscape and visual impacts; (iii) proximity to residential communities; and (iv) the concentration of developments within particular areas.","answerText":"My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement, Edition 2 (SPPS), which incorporates revised regional strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy, was published in December 2025, following a comprehensive policy review process, and Executive Committee agreement to the revised policy.\n\nThe revised policy provides an updated, contemporary policy framework for plan-making and decision-taking within the two-tier planning system. It has repositioned regional planning policy within the context of the Executive’s Energy Strategy and the Climate Change (NI) Act 2022. It has also taken into account technological changes and advancements in this field, as well as the views of stakeholders. The revised policy requires careful balancing of local impacts with the wider environmental, economic and social benefits and it guards against development proposals which would result in unacceptable adverse impacts (alone or in combination with other developments). Planning authorities are required to consider key planning considerations, such as the potential impacts of individual proposals on residential amenity, visual amenity and landscape character, including cumulative impact. Paragraph 6.233 of the SPPS specifically addresses the importance of siting and cumulative landscape and visual impacts of all renewable energy developments.\n\nFor wind farm development separation distances will be assessed on a case-by-case basis with a minimum separation distance to occupied property not less than 500m, generally applying. When bringing forward their Local Development Plans, Councils will prepare local planning policies and supplementary planning guidance, where appropriate, to reflect the particular circumstances of their local area. In doing so, councils must take account of the SPPS.\n\nI am satisfied that my Department’s revised regional strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy provides an up-to-date and appropriate framework for the consideration of wind energy development.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement, Edition 2 (SPPS), which incorporates revised regional strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy, was published in December 2025, following a comprehensive policy review process, and Executive Committee agreement to the revised policy.
The revised policy provides an updated, contemporary policy framework for plan-making and decision-taking within the two-tier planning system. It has repositioned regional planning policy within the context of the Executive’s Energy Strategy and the Climate Change (NI) Act 2022. It has also taken into account technological changes and advancements in this field, as well as the views of stakeholders. The revised policy requires careful balancing of local impacts with the wider environmental, economic and social benefits and it guards against development proposals which would result in unacceptable adverse impacts (alone or in combination with other developments). Planning authorities are required to consider key planning considerations, such as the potential impacts of individual proposals on residential amenity, visual amenity and landscape character, including cumulative impact. Paragraph 6.233 of the SPPS specifically addresses the importance of siting and cumulative landscape and visual impacts of all renewable energy developments.
For wind farm development separation distances will be assessed on a case-by-case basis with a minimum separation distance to occupied property not less than 500m, generally applying. When bringing forward their Local Development Plans, Councils will prepare local planning policies and supplementary planning guidance, where appropriate, to reflect the particular circumstances of their local area. In doing so, councils must take account of the SPPS.
I am satisfied that my Department’s revised regional strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy provides an up-to-date and appropriate framework for the consideration of wind energy development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051722%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497964"}},{"id":"497963","reference":"AQW 51721/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, when assessing the cumulative impact of a proposed wind energy development, to detail how consideration is given to (i) operational turbines; (ii) developments granted planning permission, but not yet constructed; (iii) applications awaiting determination; and (iv) developments subject to appeal.","answerText":"All planning applications for wind energy development are assessed against the provisions of the relevant council Local Development Plan (LDP), the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) Edition 2, relevant planning guidance, the views of statutory consultees and all other material planning considerations. Where an LDP contains specific policies or guidance relating to wind energy development, these will be a primary consideration in the assessment of proposals within that council area.","answerHtml":"All planning applications for wind energy development are assessed against the provisions of the relevant council Local Development Plan (LDP), the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) Edition 2, relevant planning guidance, the views of statutory consultees and all other material planning considerations. Where an LDP contains specific policies or guidance relating to wind energy development, these will be a primary consideration in the assessment of proposals within that council area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051721%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497963"}},{"id":"497962","reference":"AQW 51720/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, when a planning application is refused by a local council and subsequently appealed, to detail (i) how objections and representations, made during the original application, are carried forward into the appeals process; (ii) the opportunities available for residents to make further representations; and (iii) how residents are notified of, and can participate in, appeal proceedings.","answerText":"Where a planning application is refused by a council and subsequently appealed to the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC), the appeal is considered independently by the Commission. Information on the PAC’s policies, procedures and appeals processes are set out on their website – www.pacni.gov.uk","answerHtml":"Where a planning application is refused by a council and subsequently appealed to the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC), the appeal is considered independently by the Commission. Information on the PAC’s policies, procedures and appeals processes are set out on their website – www.pacni.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051720%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497962"}},{"id":"497961","reference":"AQW 51719/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to objections to planning applications, to detail (i) how material planning considerations, raised by objectors, are identified and assessed; (ii) how applicants are required to respond to issues raised through the consultation process; and (iii) how objectors are informed of how their concerns have been considered in reaching a decision.","answerText":"Planning officials will consider representations relating to a planning application which are received before a decision is made. Whilst there is no legal definition for material considerations, they are held to include all the fundamental factors involved in land-use planning.\n\nThe Department will consult with a range of statutory and non-statutory consultees to assist in the determination of a planning application and will take consultee comments into account before a decision is made. If a representation raises an issue that is relevant to the responsibilities of a consultee, the representation may be copied to the appropriate consultee for consideration and comment. Where further information is required to address issues raised in a consultee response, the Department will issue a written request to the applicant seeking the necessary information.\n\nAs you are aware, the progress of a planning application can be followed online using the Planning Portal. The Department does not generally respond to each comment made, but all comments are fully considered within the development management report.","answerHtml":"Planning officials will consider representations relating to a planning application which are received before a decision is made. Whilst there is no legal definition for material considerations, they are held to include all the fundamental factors involved in land-use planning.
The Department will consult with a range of statutory and non-statutory consultees to assist in the determination of a planning application and will take consultee comments into account before a decision is made. If a representation raises an issue that is relevant to the responsibilities of a consultee, the representation may be copied to the appropriate consultee for consideration and comment. Where further information is required to address issues raised in a consultee response, the Department will issue a written request to the applicant seeking the necessary information.
As you are aware, the progress of a planning application can be followed online using the Planning Portal. The Department does not generally respond to each comment made, but all comments are fully considered within the development management report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051719%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497961"}},{"id":"497960","reference":"AQW 51718/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-11","answerBy":"2026-09-28","answered":"2026-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to wind energy developments within the Benbradagh Mountain and wider Roe Valley area, to detail the number of (i) developments currently in operation; (ii) planning permissions granted for developments, which are not yet operational; (iii) planning permission applications that are currently awaiting determination; and (iv) applications subject to an ongoing planning appeal.","answerText":"The Department does not hold information at the specific detail you are asking.\n\nAdditional information relating to renewable energy applications between April 2002 and March 2026 is published on the Department’s website:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/renewable-energy-planning-applications-list-april-2002-march-2026.\n\nMy Department does not hold information on whether wind energy developments currently approved are operational, the Member may wish to contact the relevant Local Planning Authority.\n\nMore information on the numbers of appeals for wind energy developments within the Benbradagh Mountain and wider Roe Valley area can be obtained form the Planning Appeals Commission.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold information at the specific detail you are asking.
Additional information relating to renewable energy applications between April 2002 and March 2026 is published on the Department’s website:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/renewable-energy-planning-applications-list-april-2002-march-2026.
My Department does not hold information on whether wind energy developments currently approved are operational, the Member may wish to contact the relevant Local Planning Authority.
More information on the numbers of appeals for wind energy developments within the Benbradagh Mountain and wider Roe Valley area can be obtained form the Planning Appeals Commission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051718%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497960"}},{"id":"497778","reference":"AQW 51580/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the relationship between perimenopause and menopause and (i) suicidal ideation; (ii) self-harm; and (iii) suicide among women.","answerText":"Suicide is associated with poor mental health, and the impact of the menopause on mental health in general is well established. Suicide is also associated with distress, crisis and loss, all of which are common among women in the age group affected by menopause and perimenopause. The extent of poor mental health among women aged 45-64 in NI is best illustrated by the fact that almost 40% of women in this age group in Northern Ireland have an antidepressant prescription. Furthermore, misogyny, marginalisation and the disproportionate burden of caring responsibilities that women face invariably increases the stress and pressure among women.\n\nThe Assembly All-Party Group on Mental Health inquiry, The Impact of Menopause on Mental Health surveyed 486 women across Northern Ireland between November 2024 and March 2025. It found substantial mental-health effects: 62.6% reported a significant or high impact, with anxiety and insomnia each reported by 83% and brain fog by 88%. It also identified socioeconomic and geographical inequalities in impact and help-seeking.\n\nSpecific data on self-harm and suicide regarding perimenopause and menopause is not collected in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Suicide is associated with poor mental health, and the impact of the menopause on mental health in general is well established. Suicide is also associated with distress, crisis and loss, all of which are common among women in the age group affected by menopause and perimenopause. The extent of poor mental health among women aged 45-64 in NI is best illustrated by the fact that almost 40% of women in this age group in Northern Ireland have an antidepressant prescription. Furthermore, misogyny, marginalisation and the disproportionate burden of caring responsibilities that women face invariably increases the stress and pressure among women.
The Assembly All-Party Group on Mental Health inquiry, The Impact of Menopause on Mental Health surveyed 486 women across Northern Ireland between November 2024 and March 2025. It found substantial mental-health effects: 62.6% reported a significant or high impact, with anxiety and insomnia each reported by 83% and brain fog by 88%. It also identified socioeconomic and geographical inequalities in impact and help-seeking.
Specific data on self-harm and suicide regarding perimenopause and menopause is not collected in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051580%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497778","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497778"}},{"id":"497777","reference":"AQW 51579/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department collects, or plans to collect, data on the prevalence of perimenopause and menopause among women presenting with (i) suicidal ideation; and (ii) self-harm.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051579%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497777","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497777"}},{"id":"497776","reference":"AQW 51578/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to identify and support women at risk of suicide during the first year following pregnancy, including how suicide risk is assessed after discharge from maternity services.","answerText":"My Department recognises that pregnancy and the first year following birth can be a period of increased vulnerability for women experiencing mental ill health.\n\nAction 29A of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 committed to the development of specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services across Northern Ireland.\n\nRegional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services have now been established across all five Health and Social Care Trusts to provide assessment, treatment and support for women experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties during pregnancy and up to one year following birth.\n\nWomen may be identified through a range of routes including maternity services, General Practitioners, health visitors, community mental health services and Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services. Women accepted for assessment receive a comprehensive clinical assessment, including assessment of mental health needs and associated risks, such as self-harm and suicide risk where indicated.\n\nFollowing discharge from maternity services, suicide risk is assessed as part of ongoing clinical assessment undertaken by the relevant healthcare professionals involved in a woman's care. This may include Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services, General Practitioners, and Community Mental Health Services. Risk assessments are reviewed and updated as required and inform care planning, risk management and onward referrals where appropriate.\n\nSpecialist Perinatal Mental Health Services work closely with maternity services, primary care, health visiting services and mental health services to support continuity of care and information sharing. For women known to specialist services, care planning arrangements may include postnatal review, ongoing risk management and follow-up. Women may continue to receive support from Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services for up to one year following birth, with onward referral to other appropriate services where required.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises that pregnancy and the first year following birth can be a period of increased vulnerability for women experiencing mental ill health.
Action 29A of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 committed to the development of specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services across Northern Ireland.
Regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services have now been established across all five Health and Social Care Trusts to provide assessment, treatment and support for women experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties during pregnancy and up to one year following birth.
Women may be identified through a range of routes including maternity services, General Practitioners, health visitors, community mental health services and Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services. Women accepted for assessment receive a comprehensive clinical assessment, including assessment of mental health needs and associated risks, such as self-harm and suicide risk where indicated.
Following discharge from maternity services, suicide risk is assessed as part of ongoing clinical assessment undertaken by the relevant healthcare professionals involved in a woman's care. This may include Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services, General Practitioners, and Community Mental Health Services. Risk assessments are reviewed and updated as required and inform care planning, risk management and onward referrals where appropriate.
Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services work closely with maternity services, primary care, health visiting services and mental health services to support continuity of care and information sharing. For women known to specialist services, care planning arrangements may include postnatal review, ongoing risk management and follow-up. Women may continue to receive support from Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services for up to one year following birth, with onward referral to other appropriate services where required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051578%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497776","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497776"}},{"id":"497775","reference":"AQW 51577/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure that women experiencing poor mental health during pregnancy or following childbirth do not fall between (i) maternity services; (ii) primary care; and (iii) mental health services, particularly where there is a risk of self-harm or suicide.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of ensuring that women experiencing mental health difficulties during pregnancy and the first year following birth receive coordinated care and do not fall between (i) maternity services, (ii) primary care and (iii) mental health services.\n\nA range of measures are in place to support integrated working and continuity of care across these services, including specialist perinatal mental health services, regional care pathways and multidisciplinary care planning arrangements\n\nRegional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services have been established across all five Health and Social Care Trusts to provide specialist assessment, treatment and support for women experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties during the perinatal period. The updated Regional Perinatal Mental Health Care Pathway supports referral, assessment, information sharing, care planning and follow-up across services throughout pregnancy and the first postnatal year. Women may be referred by maternity services, GPs, health visitors, community mental health services and other healthcare professionals. For women with significant mental health needs, multidisciplinary care planning arrangements, including Pregnancy and Early Postnatal Plans where appropriate, support coordinated care, risk management and communication between the professionals involved in their treatment and support\n\nMy Department has also supported enhanced staff training, early identification of perinatal mental health difficulties, and the implementation of crisis intervention pathways and out-of-hours support arrangements for women experiencing acute mental distress.\n\nWhere there are concerns regarding self-harm or suicide risk, women are assessed and managed according to their individual clinical needs, with specialist mental health input provided where required. Through these arrangements, my Department seeks to promote effective partnership working and timely access to specialist support during pregnancy and the first year following birth.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of ensuring that women experiencing mental health difficulties during pregnancy and the first year following birth receive coordinated care and do not fall between (i) maternity services, (ii) primary care and (iii) mental health services.
A range of measures are in place to support integrated working and continuity of care across these services, including specialist perinatal mental health services, regional care pathways and multidisciplinary care planning arrangements
Regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Services have been established across all five Health and Social Care Trusts to provide specialist assessment, treatment and support for women experiencing moderate to severe mental health difficulties during the perinatal period. The updated Regional Perinatal Mental Health Care Pathway supports referral, assessment, information sharing, care planning and follow-up across services throughout pregnancy and the first postnatal year. Women may be referred by maternity services, GPs, health visitors, community mental health services and other healthcare professionals. For women with significant mental health needs, multidisciplinary care planning arrangements, including Pregnancy and Early Postnatal Plans where appropriate, support coordinated care, risk management and communication between the professionals involved in their treatment and support
My Department has also supported enhanced staff training, early identification of perinatal mental health difficulties, and the implementation of crisis intervention pathways and out-of-hours support arrangements for women experiencing acute mental distress.
Where there are concerns regarding self-harm or suicide risk, women are assessed and managed according to their individual clinical needs, with specialist mental health input provided where required. Through these arrangements, my Department seeks to promote effective partnership working and timely access to specialist support during pregnancy and the first year following birth.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051577%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497775","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497775"}},{"id":"497774","reference":"AQW 51576/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-25","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the relationship between domestic abuse and suicidal ideation, self-harm and suicide among women, including how this is reflected in suicide prevention services.","answerText":"During the review process of the Protect Life 2 Action Plan the principles for the strategy were re-evaluated and feedback from a wide variety of stakeholders, including those impacted by domestic violence was acknowledged and incorporated.\n\nThe new Action Plan includes a specific action 2.2, to implement place or setting-based strategies to effectively raise awareness of available support, both universally and through targeted outreach; tailored to the needs of families, communities and groups of interest. This action contains a deliverable around support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of the 2025/26 programme, 7 projects supporting those impacted by domestic abuse have been funded. There may be potential for further targeting future PHA small grants opportunities on activities focusing on domestic violence suicide prevention and support. However, I must stress that full delivery of all the actions within Protect Life 2 will only be possible subject to the necessary funding being secured.","answerHtml":"During the review process of the Protect Life 2 Action Plan the principles for the strategy were re-evaluated and feedback from a wide variety of stakeholders, including those impacted by domestic violence was acknowledged and incorporated.
The new Action Plan includes a specific action 2.2, to implement place or setting-based strategies to effectively raise awareness of available support, both universally and through targeted outreach; tailored to the needs of families, communities and groups of interest. This action contains a deliverable around support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of the 2025/26 programme, 7 projects supporting those impacted by domestic abuse have been funded. There may be potential for further targeting future PHA small grants opportunities on activities focusing on domestic violence suicide prevention and support. However, I must stress that full delivery of all the actions within Protect Life 2 will only be possible subject to the necessary funding being secured.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051576%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497774","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497774"}},{"id":"497690","reference":"AQO 3937/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-10","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline how the Executive is measuring progress in improving outcomes for older people through the Programme for Government 2024-2027.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms O'Neill","text":"With your permission, Mr Speaker, I will ask junior Minister Reilly to answer the question."},{"speaker":"Ms Reilly (Junior Minister, The Executive Office)","text":"Through the current Programme for Government (PFG), we are committed to improving outcomes for everyone in our society, and that includes older people. The progress is measured in two ways. First, we monitor the delivery of the Programme for Government commitments, including those that are particularly relevant to older people. The publication of the PFG annual reports has shown the tangible progress that we are making on a range of commitments, including reducing health waiting times, tackling fuel poverty and providing housing-related support to enable people to live independently in their communities. Secondly, the well-being framework, which was published alongside the PFG, provides a broader assessment of the outcomes across society over time."},{"speaker":"","text":"Many of the framework's indicators can be analysed by age, thus helping us understand the experiences of older people, identify areas where inequalities exist and assess whether outcomes are improving over time. We are committed to supporting people at every stage of their life, and we continue to engage with key stakeholders, including the Commissioner for Older People, to understand the key challenges that remain."},{"speaker":"","text":"We recognise the considerable work that the Member undertook to develop and introduce the Age Discrimination (Goods, Facilities and Services) Bill and the importance of the issues that the Bill seeks to address. We also recognise that the Member is continually a champion for older people. I congratulate her on that work and look forward to the Bill's Second Stage. For our part, we will continue not only to track the delivery of our Programme for Government commitments but to assess whether long-term well-being outcomes are improving for people across our society, including older people."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We now move on to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203937%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497690","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-09-21&docID=498919#AQO%203937/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497690"}},{"id":"497522","reference":"AQW 51410/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following publication of the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry's April 2026 report Routes to Diagnosis, to detail (i) how the findings relating to gynaecological cancers are informing cancer policy and service planning; and (ii) any steps being taken to increase the proportion of gynaecological cancers identified through timely referral and investigation.","answerText":"(i) The findings of the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry’s Routes to Diagnosis report are informing implementation of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy, particularly work to support earlier diagnosis, reduce emergency presentations and strengthen referral and diagnostic pathways. The report highlights that cancers diagnosed through suspected cancer referral pathways are more likely to be identified at an earlier stage and have better outcomes than those diagnosed following emergency presentation. These findings are being considered alongside regional service data to inform pathway reviews, service planning and capacity assessments across gynaecological cancer services.\n\n(ii) A range of actions are being progressed to support earlier diagnosis and increase the proportion of gynaecological cancers identified through timely referral and investigation. These include public-awareness activity through the Public Health Agency’s Be Cancer Aware programme and targeted gynaecological cancer awareness campaigns; a review of regional suspected cancer referral guidance for gynaecological cancers, including post-menopausal bleeding and ovarian cancer pathways; continued support for the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme, which plays an important role in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer; and an assessment of workforce and diagnostic capacity requirements to ensure services can support timely investigation and diagnosis.\n\nRegional work is also underway through the Northern Ireland Cancer Network Cancer Programme Team, and the Regional Health and Social Care (HSC) Gynaecology Forum to review pathways, assess future demand and identify opportunities to improve access, capacity and patient flow across both cancer and wider gynaecology services. Collectively, these actions aim to support earlier diagnosis, increase diagnosis through appropriate referral pathways and reduce diagnoses following emergency presentation.","answerHtml":"(i) The findings of the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry’s Routes to Diagnosis report are informing implementation of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy, particularly work to support earlier diagnosis, reduce emergency presentations and strengthen referral and diagnostic pathways. The report highlights that cancers diagnosed through suspected cancer referral pathways are more likely to be identified at an earlier stage and have better outcomes than those diagnosed following emergency presentation. These findings are being considered alongside regional service data to inform pathway reviews, service planning and capacity assessments across gynaecological cancer services.
(ii) A range of actions are being progressed to support earlier diagnosis and increase the proportion of gynaecological cancers identified through timely referral and investigation. These include public-awareness activity through the Public Health Agency’s Be Cancer Aware programme and targeted gynaecological cancer awareness campaigns; a review of regional suspected cancer referral guidance for gynaecological cancers, including post-menopausal bleeding and ovarian cancer pathways; continued support for the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme, which plays an important role in the early detection and prevention of cervical cancer; and an assessment of workforce and diagnostic capacity requirements to ensure services can support timely investigation and diagnosis.
Regional work is also underway through the Northern Ireland Cancer Network Cancer Programme Team, and the Regional Health and Social Care (HSC) Gynaecology Forum to review pathways, assess future demand and identify opportunities to improve access, capacity and patient flow across both cancer and wider gynaecology services. Collectively, these actions aim to support earlier diagnosis, increase diagnosis through appropriate referral pathways and reduce diagnoses following emergency presentation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051410%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497522"}},{"id":"497521","reference":"AQW 51409/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any steps he is taking to ensure that women living in rural areas have equitable access to diagnostic investigations and specialist services for suspected gynaecological cancers; and (ii) how rural accessibility is being considered in the planning and configuration of these services.","answerText":"My Department is committed to ensuring that women across Northern Ireland, including those living in rural communities, have equitable access to high-quality diagnostic and specialist cancer services.\n\nWomen with suspected gynaecological cancers are referred, assessed and prioritised based on clinical need, irrespective of where they live. Regional referral pathways are in place to support timely access to appropriate diagnostic investigations and specialist assessment across Northern Ireland. These pathways are designed to promote consistency of access and care for all patients.\n\nMy Department recognises that women living in rural areas may face additional challenges in accessing healthcare services, including longer travel distances and reduced proximity to specialist centres. To help address these challenges and support equitable access to diagnostic and specialist services, a number of initiatives are being progressed, including investment in diagnostic capacity, workforce expansion, the development of regional diagnostic services and the implementation of regional approaches to elective care. These measures aim to improve access to diagnostic investigations and reduce delays, including for patients living in rural areas.\n\nRural accessibility is an important consideration in the planning and configuration of services. In designing and developing healthcare provision, my Department and HSC organisations consider a range of factors, including population need, geographical accessibility, travel times, workforce availability, service sustainability and clinical outcomes.\n\nWhile some specialist gynaecological cancer services are delivered on a regional basis in order to concentrate expertise and support safe, high quality care, consideration is given to minimising the impact that travel requirements may have on patients and their families. My Department seeks, where possible, to maximise local access to diagnostic investigations and supporting services, while ensuring that specialist treatment is provided in settings that deliver the best outcomes for patients.\n\nMy Department also continues to explore service models that can improve accessibility for rural populations, including greater regional collaboration, networked services and the appropriate use of digital technologies to support the delivery of care closer to home where clinically appropriate.\n\nEnsuring equitable access for rural communities remains an important consideration in the ongoing development of cancer services, and my Department will continue to work with HSC Trusts to improve access to timely diagnosis, specialist assessment and treatment for women across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to ensuring that women across Northern Ireland, including those living in rural communities, have equitable access to high-quality diagnostic and specialist cancer services.
Women with suspected gynaecological cancers are referred, assessed and prioritised based on clinical need, irrespective of where they live. Regional referral pathways are in place to support timely access to appropriate diagnostic investigations and specialist assessment across Northern Ireland. These pathways are designed to promote consistency of access and care for all patients.
My Department recognises that women living in rural areas may face additional challenges in accessing healthcare services, including longer travel distances and reduced proximity to specialist centres. To help address these challenges and support equitable access to diagnostic and specialist services, a number of initiatives are being progressed, including investment in diagnostic capacity, workforce expansion, the development of regional diagnostic services and the implementation of regional approaches to elective care. These measures aim to improve access to diagnostic investigations and reduce delays, including for patients living in rural areas.
Rural accessibility is an important consideration in the planning and configuration of services. In designing and developing healthcare provision, my Department and HSC organisations consider a range of factors, including population need, geographical accessibility, travel times, workforce availability, service sustainability and clinical outcomes.
While some specialist gynaecological cancer services are delivered on a regional basis in order to concentrate expertise and support safe, high quality care, consideration is given to minimising the impact that travel requirements may have on patients and their families. My Department seeks, where possible, to maximise local access to diagnostic investigations and supporting services, while ensuring that specialist treatment is provided in settings that deliver the best outcomes for patients.
My Department also continues to explore service models that can improve accessibility for rural populations, including greater regional collaboration, networked services and the appropriate use of digital technologies to support the delivery of care closer to home where clinically appropriate.
Ensuring equitable access for rural communities remains an important consideration in the ongoing development of cancer services, and my Department will continue to work with HSC Trusts to improve access to timely diagnosis, specialist assessment and treatment for women across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051409%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497521","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497521"}},{"id":"497520","reference":"AQW 51408/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to gynaecological cancers for which there is no population screening programme, to detail any steps being taken to improve (i) public awareness of signs and symptoms; (ii) recognition of potential symptoms within primary care; and (iii) access to timely diagnostic investigation.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051408%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497520"}},{"id":"497519","reference":"AQW 51407/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he is taking to ensure that women who repeatedly present to primary care with persistent symptoms associated with gynaecological cancers receive timely investigation and referral to specialist services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051407%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497519"}},{"id":"497518","reference":"AQW 51406/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-09","answerBy":"2026-09-24","answered":"2026-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the April 2026 update to National Institute for Health and Care Excellence CG122 guidance on the recognition and referral of suspected ovarian cancer, to detail (i) any steps that have been taken to implement the revised guidance; (ii) how GPs have been informed of the changes; and (iii) how implementation is being monitored across Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the April 2026 update to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on the recognition and referral of suspected ovarian cancer.\n\n(i) The Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) Gynaecology Clinical Reference Group (CRG) is currently reviewing regional suspected cancer referral guidance for gynaecological cancers to ensure pathways remain aligned with current evidence and national guidance.\n\nThe initial focus of this work includes the ovarian cancer pathway. Review of the updated NICE recommendations is underway, including those relating to CA125 testing, assessment of persistent symptoms and access to diagnostic investigations. NICaN is also working with regional radiology colleagues to assess the potential impact of any proposed changes on demand for diagnostic imaging and available capacity. This will help ensure that any revised pathways are clinically appropriate and operationally deliverable.\n\nDraft regional guidance is being developed and will be subject to the appropriate clinical and governance approval processes before implementation.\n\n(ii) Primary care is represented on the NICaN Gynaecology CRG and is contributing to the review of the updated NICE guidance.\n\nAs the review remains ongoing, no changes to regional referral guidance have yet been agreed. Subject to approval of any revised guidance, changes will be communicated to General Practitioners (GPs) through established professional communication channels and supported by education and awareness activities.\n\n(iii) The review and any subsequent implementation are being overseen through established NICaN governance arrangements, which include representation from HSC Trusts. These arrangements provide regional oversight of guidance development, implementation and adoption across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the April 2026 update to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance on the recognition and referral of suspected ovarian cancer.
(i) The Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) Gynaecology Clinical Reference Group (CRG) is currently reviewing regional suspected cancer referral guidance for gynaecological cancers to ensure pathways remain aligned with current evidence and national guidance.
The initial focus of this work includes the ovarian cancer pathway. Review of the updated NICE recommendations is underway, including those relating to CA125 testing, assessment of persistent symptoms and access to diagnostic investigations. NICaN is also working with regional radiology colleagues to assess the potential impact of any proposed changes on demand for diagnostic imaging and available capacity. This will help ensure that any revised pathways are clinically appropriate and operationally deliverable.
Draft regional guidance is being developed and will be subject to the appropriate clinical and governance approval processes before implementation.
(ii) Primary care is represented on the NICaN Gynaecology CRG and is contributing to the review of the updated NICE guidance.
As the review remains ongoing, no changes to regional referral guidance have yet been agreed. Subject to approval of any revised guidance, changes will be communicated to General Practitioners (GPs) through established professional communication channels and supported by education and awareness activities.
(iii) The review and any subsequent implementation are being overseen through established NICaN governance arrangements, which include representation from HSC Trusts. These arrangements provide regional oversight of guidance development, implementation and adoption across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051406%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497518"}},{"id":"497247","reference":"AQW 51250/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, regarding anti-social behaviour involving vehicles, including off-road motorcycles and scramblers, to detail (i) any assessment her Department has made of the prevalence of such behaviour; and (ii) any work being undertaken to identify gaps in the enforcement powers available to the PSNI.","answerText":"(i) Whilst there has not been any specific assessment of the prevalence of this behaviour, I am acutely aware that in recent months there have been many media reports concerning the dangerous use of e-scooters and scramblers across Northern Ireland, including numerous stories linking e-scooters/scramblers to dangerous and anti-social behaviour.\n\n(ii) My department is in regular contact with PSNI colleagues to discuss enforcement issues.\n\nYou will be aware of an amendment to the Justice Bill, which was passed by the Assembly on 30 June. When implemented, the amendment will strengthen police powers to seize vehicles and retain or dispose of vehicles being used in a dangerous or antisocial manner, removing the necessity for the PSNI to provide a warning before removing the vehicle. I am grateful to Nuala McAllister MLA, Paul Frew MLA and Patsy McGlone MLA for their work on this amendment.\n\nAt a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) continue to play a key role in responding to community safety concerns, including those relating to antisocial behaviour and the use of e-scooters/ scramblers.\n\nHowever, solving this issue involves more than simply strengthening enforcement powers. It requires a coordinated cross-government approach supported by community-led intervention schemes and programmes targeted at reducing these behaviours. Therefore, I have written to Executive Colleagues and the Chief Constable to discuss the development of a cross-departmental approach to this issue.","answerHtml":"(i) Whilst there has not been any specific assessment of the prevalence of this behaviour, I am acutely aware that in recent months there have been many media reports concerning the dangerous use of e-scooters and scramblers across Northern Ireland, including numerous stories linking e-scooters/scramblers to dangerous and anti-social behaviour.
(ii) My department is in regular contact with PSNI colleagues to discuss enforcement issues.
You will be aware of an amendment to the Justice Bill, which was passed by the Assembly on 30 June. When implemented, the amendment will strengthen police powers to seize vehicles and retain or dispose of vehicles being used in a dangerous or antisocial manner, removing the necessity for the PSNI to provide a warning before removing the vehicle. I am grateful to Nuala McAllister MLA, Paul Frew MLA and Patsy McGlone MLA for their work on this amendment.
At a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) continue to play a key role in responding to community safety concerns, including those relating to antisocial behaviour and the use of e-scooters/ scramblers.
However, solving this issue involves more than simply strengthening enforcement powers. It requires a coordinated cross-government approach supported by community-led intervention schemes and programmes targeted at reducing these behaviours. Therefore, I have written to Executive Colleagues and the Chief Constable to discuss the development of a cross-departmental approach to this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051250%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497247"}},{"id":"497246","reference":"AQW 51249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any assessment her Department has made of barriers to reporting persistent anti-social behaviour, including fear of intimidation or retaliation; and (ii) any measures that are in place to support and protect people who report repeated incidents within their community.","answerText":"Barriers to reporting persistent anti-social behaviour (ASB) can include fear of intimidation or retaliation; concerns about being identified as the person who contacted the police; a belief that reporting will not result in meaningful change; the normalisation of persistent behaviour within an area; and uncertainty about which agency is responsible for addressing a particular issue. My officials have liaised with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) on this matter.\n\nThe PSNI recognise people may be reluctant to report repeated incidents but encourage people to report ASB so that its nature, frequency and associated risk can be properly assessed. Reports of ASB may be made by calling 101, through the Police Service’s online reporting service, or directly to local officers and Neighbourhood Policing Teams. Accurate reporting helps identify repeat locations, individuals and patterns of behaviour, enabling police and partner resources to be directed where they are most needed. Information may also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers.\n\nWhere repeated incidents are reported, the PSNI will consider the wider circumstances and any vulnerability of those affected, rather than viewing incidents in isolation. The online reporting process seeks information about the reporting person and the circumstances to support an assessment of risk. Where behaviour includes threats, harassment, intimidation, criminal damage, assault, hate crime or other criminal offences, it will be considered and investigated accordingly.\n\nPSNI responses may include targeted patrols; engagement by Local Policing and Neighbourhood officers; investigation and evidence gathering; enforcement action against identified offenders; crime-prevention advice; and joint problem-solving with relevant partner organisations. Responsibility for addressing ASB is shared across a range of bodies, including police, councils, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, housing associations and private landlords, depending on the nature and location of the behaviour.\n\nWhere a person raises concerns about retaliation or further harm as a result of reporting, this should inform the police assessment of risk and subsequent response. Where appropriate, police may also work with statutory, housing and community partners to reduce identified risks and provide reassurance and support.\n\nIn terms of addressing ASB, including suspected drug related activity and violence, the deployment of resources including the detection and investigation such crimes is a matter for the PSNI.\n\nMy Department is seeking to address the issue of ASB through our ongoing development of proposals for revised legislation. Following a public consultation and the work of an ASB Working Group, officials are now developing Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) on legislative proposals on ASB, with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.","answerHtml":"Barriers to reporting persistent anti-social behaviour (ASB) can include fear of intimidation or retaliation; concerns about being identified as the person who contacted the police; a belief that reporting will not result in meaningful change; the normalisation of persistent behaviour within an area; and uncertainty about which agency is responsible for addressing a particular issue. My officials have liaised with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) on this matter.
The PSNI recognise people may be reluctant to report repeated incidents but encourage people to report ASB so that its nature, frequency and associated risk can be properly assessed. Reports of ASB may be made by calling 101, through the Police Service’s online reporting service, or directly to local officers and Neighbourhood Policing Teams. Accurate reporting helps identify repeat locations, individuals and patterns of behaviour, enabling police and partner resources to be directed where they are most needed. Information may also be provided anonymously through Crimestoppers.
Where repeated incidents are reported, the PSNI will consider the wider circumstances and any vulnerability of those affected, rather than viewing incidents in isolation. The online reporting process seeks information about the reporting person and the circumstances to support an assessment of risk. Where behaviour includes threats, harassment, intimidation, criminal damage, assault, hate crime or other criminal offences, it will be considered and investigated accordingly.
PSNI responses may include targeted patrols; engagement by Local Policing and Neighbourhood officers; investigation and evidence gathering; enforcement action against identified offenders; crime-prevention advice; and joint problem-solving with relevant partner organisations. Responsibility for addressing ASB is shared across a range of bodies, including police, councils, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, housing associations and private landlords, depending on the nature and location of the behaviour.
Where a person raises concerns about retaliation or further harm as a result of reporting, this should inform the police assessment of risk and subsequent response. Where appropriate, police may also work with statutory, housing and community partners to reduce identified risks and provide reassurance and support.
In terms of addressing ASB, including suspected drug related activity and violence, the deployment of resources including the detection and investigation such crimes is a matter for the PSNI.
My Department is seeking to address the issue of ASB through our ongoing development of proposals for revised legislation. Following a public consultation and the work of an ASB Working Group, officials are now developing Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) on legislative proposals on ASB, with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497246","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497246"}},{"id":"497245","reference":"AQW 51248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any arrangements that are in place to ensure that people, repeatedly coming to the attention of criminal justice agencies as a result of anti-social behaviour associated with drug or alcohol misuse, are referred to appropriate treatment and support services.","answerText":"People who repeatedly come to the attention of criminal justice agencies are addressed by each agency as follows:\n\nWhere individuals repeatedly come to the attention of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), neighbourhood policing teams work with relevant partners to identify opportunities for early intervention and longer term problem solving. Depending on the circumstances, this can include local councils, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Health and Social Care services, the Youth Justice Agency, Probation Board for Northern Ireland and voluntary and community organisations. Multi agency Support Hubs provide one mechanism through which vulnerable individuals with complex or recurring needs can be considered. Where drug or alcohol misuse is identified as a contributing factor, individuals may also be signposted or referred, where appropriate, to specialist treatment and support services. The PSNI advise that they continue to take appropriate enforcement action where criminal offending occurs, while working with partners to address the underlying causes of repeated anti-social behaviour and reduce further harm to individuals and communities.\n\nThe Youth Justice Agency (YJA) provides a range of services, often delivered in partnership with others, to help address offending behaviour, to divert children from crime, to manage risk and improve life chances. A relatively small proportion of these children are involved in what might be considered persistent offending. In most cases, where substance use is identified as a contributory factor to offending, YJA provides targeted interventions in the community and in custody and/or refer the child or young person to other specialist and/or community /voluntary sector services for additional support. Although the majority of children are referred to YJA on a statutory basis by courts and the public Prosecution Service (PPS), the agency is also committed to developing and delivering Earlier Stage Diversion (ESD). This includes taking voluntary referrals for children involved in the early stages of minor offending and delivering one-off awareness sessions for children who have received Community Resolution Notices. A significant proportion of children referred for ESD have been involved in substance related offences or persistent anti-social behaviour (ASB). YJA also has a limited amount of funding which can be used to support voluntary and community sector organisations to work with groups of children who are on the cusp of the formal justice system and involved in minor offending or ASB, some of which is substance use related. In addition to this, YJA delivers a range of educational workshops in schools including alcohol and drug misuse. YJA is represented on all five of the Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams which work collectively to address drug and alcohol misuse for both children and adults.\n\nFrom a Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) perspective, the provision of health services to prisoners, the responsibility for this transferred to the Department of Health in April 2008. The Department commissioned the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (the Trust) to deliver primary care and mental health services from April 2008 and Addictions Services from October 2008. Secondary and tertiary services are provided by the Health and Social Care Trust in whose area the individual lived prior to committal to prison custody. The Trust’s Healthcare in Prison Team is based across all three prison establishments and includes a Clinical Addictions Team. Additionally, the Trust has commissioned Start 360 to deliver the Alcohol and Drugs: Empowering People Through Recovery (AD:EPT) programme and provide therapeutic interventions.\n\nThe Probation Board of Northern Ireland (PBNI) does not have a general role in identifying or managing individuals who repeatedly come to the attention of criminal justice agencies as a result of anti-social behaviour associated with drug or alcohol misuse.\n\nHowever, within this statutory remit, PBNI works with individuals under probation supervision to reduce the likelihood of reoffending and support rehabilitation, which includes assessing and addressing factors linked to offending behaviour, including drug and alcohol misuse where relevant. PBNI undertakes comprehensive assessments of an individual's offending behaviour, risks and needs. Where substance misuse is identified as a contributory factor to offending, probation staff work with the individual to develop an intervention plan which may include referral to appropriate treatment and support services. Depending on assessed need, this may involve statutory health services, community-based addiction services, or voluntary and community sector providers. Probation staff monitor engagement with relevant services and work in partnership with providers to coordinate support for individuals with complex and often multiple needs.","answerHtml":"People who repeatedly come to the attention of criminal justice agencies are addressed by each agency as follows:
Where individuals repeatedly come to the attention of the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), neighbourhood policing teams work with relevant partners to identify opportunities for early intervention and longer term problem solving. Depending on the circumstances, this can include local councils, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, Health and Social Care services, the Youth Justice Agency, Probation Board for Northern Ireland and voluntary and community organisations. Multi agency Support Hubs provide one mechanism through which vulnerable individuals with complex or recurring needs can be considered. Where drug or alcohol misuse is identified as a contributing factor, individuals may also be signposted or referred, where appropriate, to specialist treatment and support services. The PSNI advise that they continue to take appropriate enforcement action where criminal offending occurs, while working with partners to address the underlying causes of repeated anti-social behaviour and reduce further harm to individuals and communities.
The Youth Justice Agency (YJA) provides a range of services, often delivered in partnership with others, to help address offending behaviour, to divert children from crime, to manage risk and improve life chances. A relatively small proportion of these children are involved in what might be considered persistent offending. In most cases, where substance use is identified as a contributory factor to offending, YJA provides targeted interventions in the community and in custody and/or refer the child or young person to other specialist and/or community /voluntary sector services for additional support. Although the majority of children are referred to YJA on a statutory basis by courts and the public Prosecution Service (PPS), the agency is also committed to developing and delivering Earlier Stage Diversion (ESD). This includes taking voluntary referrals for children involved in the early stages of minor offending and delivering one-off awareness sessions for children who have received Community Resolution Notices. A significant proportion of children referred for ESD have been involved in substance related offences or persistent anti-social behaviour (ASB). YJA also has a limited amount of funding which can be used to support voluntary and community sector organisations to work with groups of children who are on the cusp of the formal justice system and involved in minor offending or ASB, some of which is substance use related. In addition to this, YJA delivers a range of educational workshops in schools including alcohol and drug misuse. YJA is represented on all five of the Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams which work collectively to address drug and alcohol misuse for both children and adults.
From a Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) perspective, the provision of health services to prisoners, the responsibility for this transferred to the Department of Health in April 2008. The Department commissioned the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (the Trust) to deliver primary care and mental health services from April 2008 and Addictions Services from October 2008. Secondary and tertiary services are provided by the Health and Social Care Trust in whose area the individual lived prior to committal to prison custody. The Trust’s Healthcare in Prison Team is based across all three prison establishments and includes a Clinical Addictions Team. Additionally, the Trust has commissioned Start 360 to deliver the Alcohol and Drugs: Empowering People Through Recovery (AD:EPT) programme and provide therapeutic interventions.
The Probation Board of Northern Ireland (PBNI) does not have a general role in identifying or managing individuals who repeatedly come to the attention of criminal justice agencies as a result of anti-social behaviour associated with drug or alcohol misuse.
However, within this statutory remit, PBNI works with individuals under probation supervision to reduce the likelihood of reoffending and support rehabilitation, which includes assessing and addressing factors linked to offending behaviour, including drug and alcohol misuse where relevant. PBNI undertakes comprehensive assessments of an individual's offending behaviour, risks and needs. Where substance misuse is identified as a contributory factor to offending, probation staff work with the individual to develop an intervention plan which may include referral to appropriate treatment and support services. Depending on assessed need, this may involve statutory health services, community-based addiction services, or voluntary and community sector providers. Probation staff monitor engagement with relevant services and work in partnership with providers to coordinate support for individuals with complex and often multiple needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051248%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497245"}},{"id":"497244","reference":"AQW 51247/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, regarding residential properties repeatedly associated with serious anti-social behaviour, including suspected drug-related activity or violence, to detail (i) any powers available to relevant agencies to address such behaviour; and (ii) any gaps her Department has identified in the current legislative framework.","answerText":"Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), including that linked to drug-related activity, can have a significant impact on communities.\n\nResponses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.\n\nDfC has taken forward matters in relation to ASB and social housing in their Housing (Amendment) Bill 2026.\n\nMy Department continues to work on potential amendments to Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) and other aspects of ASB. Following the consultation and the work of an ASB Working Group my officials are now working on Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) on ASB and the adjacent issue of drinking in public, with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.\n\nIn terms of addressing serious anti-social behaviour including suspected drug related activity and violence, the deployment of resources including the detection and investigation such crimes, is a matter for the Chief Constable.\n\nPolicing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.","answerHtml":"Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), including that linked to drug-related activity, can have a significant impact on communities.
Responses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.
DfC has taken forward matters in relation to ASB and social housing in their Housing (Amendment) Bill 2026.
My Department continues to work on potential amendments to Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) and other aspects of ASB. Following the consultation and the work of an ASB Working Group my officials are now working on Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) on ASB and the adjacent issue of drinking in public, with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.
In terms of addressing serious anti-social behaviour including suspected drug related activity and violence, the deployment of resources including the detection and investigation such crimes, is a matter for the Chief Constable.
Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497244"}},{"id":"497243","reference":"AQW 51246/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-08","answerBy":"2026-09-23","answered":"2026-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, regarding drug-related activity and persistent anti-social behaviour in residential communities, to detail (i) any assessment her Department has made of the relationship between drug-related activity and persistent anti-social behaviour; (ii) how any assessment can inform community safety policy; and (iii) any specific interventions being developed to address repeated drug-related anti-social behaviour in residential communities.","answerText":"Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) can have a significant impact on communities and as research such as the Public Health Authority (PHA) and Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) Drug Related Intimidation Report of October 2025 make clear – there are links between ASB and drug-related activity.\n\nResponses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.\n\nAs was detailed in the consultation report further work has been, and will be, required with respect to any potential amendments to ASB legislation. Initially this was taken forward by an ASB Working Group comprising of statutory partners together with representatives from the community and voluntary sectors. My officials continue to consider all the issues raised throughout this exercise and the recommendations of the working group to inform the final direction of the ASBO. The latest stage in this process is the development of Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) on ASB and drinking in public, with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.\n\nWhilst drug-related ASB should always be reported directly to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), at a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.\n\nPCSPs have agreed local priorities for 2026/27 that include, for example, reducing crime and its impact on communities, with a particular focus on drugs, alcohol and addictions, and youth engagement initiatives; Derry and Strabane PCSP, for example, funds drug education workshops as part of their consensual grant aid which is delivered via local communities. PCSPs also promote the RAPID (Remove All Prescription and Illegal Drugs) bins in partnership with PHA, PSNI and PCSP stakeholders.","answerHtml":"Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) can have a significant impact on communities and as research such as the Public Health Authority (PHA) and Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) Drug Related Intimidation Report of October 2025 make clear – there are links between ASB and drug-related activity.
Responses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.
As was detailed in the consultation report further work has been, and will be, required with respect to any potential amendments to ASB legislation. Initially this was taken forward by an ASB Working Group comprising of statutory partners together with representatives from the community and voluntary sectors. My officials continue to consider all the issues raised throughout this exercise and the recommendations of the working group to inform the final direction of the ASBO. The latest stage in this process is the development of Equality Impact Assessments (EQIAs) on ASB and drinking in public, with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.
Whilst drug-related ASB should always be reported directly to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), at a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.
PCSPs have agreed local priorities for 2026/27 that include, for example, reducing crime and its impact on communities, with a particular focus on drugs, alcohol and addictions, and youth engagement initiatives; Derry and Strabane PCSP, for example, funds drug education workshops as part of their consensual grant aid which is delivered via local communities. PCSPs also promote the RAPID (Remove All Prescription and Illegal Drugs) bins in partnership with PHA, PSNI and PCSP stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051246%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=497243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=497243"}},{"id":"496981","reference":"AQW 51093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail, for the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, (i) the number of households currently in temporary accommodation; (ii) the number currently placed in temporary accommodation outside the Borough Council area; (iii) the average length of stay in temporary accommodation; and (iv) any action his Department is taking to increase the availability of suitable temporary accommodation within the area.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin October 2025 – March 2026, published on 11 June 2026, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at:\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-october-2025-march-2026.\n\nThe accompanying tables at Section 3 contain details on temporary accommodation placements; however, I am unable to provide a breakdown in the format you have requested.\n\nThe Housing Executive regularly seeks to increase the number of properties used for temporary accommodation across all areas and its strategic approach to temporary accommodation is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation. The year five action plan is available at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/article/1382/Homelessness-strategy.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin October 2025 – March 2026, published on 11 June 2026, contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at:
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-october-2025-march-2026.
The accompanying tables at Section 3 contain details on temporary accommodation placements; however, I am unable to provide a breakdown in the format you have requested.
The Housing Executive regularly seeks to increase the number of properties used for temporary accommodation across all areas and its strategic approach to temporary accommodation is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation. The year five action plan is available at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/article/1382/Homelessness-strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496981"}},{"id":"496980","reference":"AQW 51092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any action his Department has taken to address the impact of second-home ownership on housing availability and affordability in areas with high concentrations of second homes, including the Causeway Coast and Glens.","answerText":"My Department is currently carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the potential impact they may have on local housing markets.\n\nWhilst this might help inform consideration of proposals to address any identified impacts on housing availability and affordability, my Department does not have the statutory powers to implement such proposals.\n\nAny action to address these issues would therefore ultimately require other Departments with the relevant legislative and policy responsibilities. For example, responsibility for the rating system and its treatment of second homes rests with the Department of Finance.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the potential impact they may have on local housing markets.
Whilst this might help inform consideration of proposals to address any identified impacts on housing availability and affordability, my Department does not have the statutory powers to implement such proposals.
Any action to address these issues would therefore ultimately require other Departments with the relevant legislative and policy responsibilities. For example, responsibility for the rating system and its treatment of second homes rests with the Department of Finance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496980"}},{"id":"496979","reference":"AQW 51091/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, regarding the Housing Supply Strategy 2024–2039, to detail (i) any actions within his Department's responsibility that have been completed to date; (ii) any actions that remain outstanding; (iii) an anticipated timeframe for completion of outstanding actions; and (iv) any measurable impact of completed actions on housing supply.","answerText":"The Housing Supply Strategy will be implemented through a series of short-term Action Plans, and I intend to publish the first Action Plan shortly.\n\nThe Action Plan will detail the cross-Executive actions to be delivered over the first 3 years of the Strategy and will provide details on the timeframe and scope for the first annual review which, when published, will provide detail progress on all actions at that stage.\n\nIt is my intention that a final review report will also be published at the end of the Plan period (2028), which will detail completion of actions and include an assessment of progress against the Strategy indicators.","answerHtml":"The Housing Supply Strategy will be implemented through a series of short-term Action Plans, and I intend to publish the first Action Plan shortly.
The Action Plan will detail the cross-Executive actions to be delivered over the first 3 years of the Strategy and will provide details on the timeframe and scope for the first annual review which, when published, will provide detail progress on all actions at that stage.
It is my intention that a final review report will also be published at the end of the Plan period (2028), which will detail completion of actions and include an assessment of progress against the Strategy indicators.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051091%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496979"}},{"id":"496978","reference":"AQW 51090/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, regarding areas with high concentrations of second homes and short-term holiday lets, whether his Department has made any assessment of the need for affordable housing, including (i) how this assessment is reflected in the planning and delivery of affordable housing; and (ii) any specific measures being considered for coastal communities experiencing housing affordability pressures.","answerText":"The NIHE in its role as the strategic Regional Housing Authority for Northern Ireland, is responsible for the identification of housing need, including through its Strategic Housing Market Analysis which sets out projections of future housing need and demand, including for affordable homes. Local councils are responsible for bringing forward necessary housing policies for their own areas in their Local Development Plans (LDPs) and work closely with the Housing Executive Place shaping teams to ensure adequate zoning of land and provision of appropriate affordable housing policies in the LDPs to meet local requirements.\n\nMy Department’s policy remit covers all types of affordable homes, including social, intermediate for rent and intermediate for sale (shared-ownership).\n\nThe Social Housing Development Programme is a three-year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes based on the identification and analysis of housing need by geographical area. The scale and nature of social new build provision takes account of a range of factors including the Net Stock Model, Housing Need Assessments and the NIHE Social Housing Development Guidelines.\n\nCo-Ownership is the Department’s main delivery partner for shared ownership housing. Their scheme operates a ‘Do It Yourself Shared Ownership’ model where the customer selects either a new build or existing property they wish to purchase. Overall need is determined by the NIHE through the Strategic Housing Market Analysis process.","answerHtml":"The NIHE in its role as the strategic Regional Housing Authority for Northern Ireland, is responsible for the identification of housing need, including through its Strategic Housing Market Analysis which sets out projections of future housing need and demand, including for affordable homes. Local councils are responsible for bringing forward necessary housing policies for their own areas in their Local Development Plans (LDPs) and work closely with the Housing Executive Place shaping teams to ensure adequate zoning of land and provision of appropriate affordable housing policies in the LDPs to meet local requirements.
My Department’s policy remit covers all types of affordable homes, including social, intermediate for rent and intermediate for sale (shared-ownership).
The Social Housing Development Programme is a three-year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes based on the identification and analysis of housing need by geographical area. The scale and nature of social new build provision takes account of a range of factors including the Net Stock Model, Housing Need Assessments and the NIHE Social Housing Development Guidelines.
Co-Ownership is the Department’s main delivery partner for shared ownership housing. Their scheme operates a ‘Do It Yourself Shared Ownership’ model where the customer selects either a new build or existing property they wish to purchase. Overall need is determined by the NIHE through the Strategic Housing Market Analysis process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051090%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496978"}},{"id":"496977","reference":"AQW 51089/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-07","answerBy":"2026-09-22","answered":"2026-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail, for East Londonderry, (i) the current projected social housing need; (ii) the number of new social homes completed in each year since 2022; (iii) the number currently under construction; (iv) the number programmed for delivery before the end of the current 2022-27 Assembly mandate; and (v) any anticipated shortfall against identified need.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 51089/22-27, the information attached at Annex A has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 51089/22-27, the information attached at Annex A has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051089%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496977"}},{"id":"496836","reference":"AQW 50972/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients residing in East Londonderry who (i) were referred with suspected endometriosis; (ii) received a diagnosis of endometriosis; and (iii) commenced treatment for endometriosis, in each of the last five financial years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050972%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496836"}},{"id":"496835","reference":"AQW 50971/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the diagnostic pathway followed by a patient referred by their GP with suspected endometriosis, including the stages at which they may receive (i) a specialist gynaecology assessment; (ii) diagnostic imaging; and (iii) diagnostic laparoscopy.","answerText":"Patients presenting to their General Practice (GP) with symptoms suggestive of endometriosis will undergo an initial clinical assessment in primary care. Where endometriosis is suspected, treatment and referral are guided by clinical history, symptoms and relevant professional guidance, including National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis.\n\n(i) A specialist gynaecology assessment;\n\nA patient may be referred by their GP to a secondary care gynaecology service, where symptoms suggest endometriosis and require further investigation. Following referral, patients with suspected endometriosis, but no confirmed diagnosis, will be triaged to a general gynaecology clinic where they will be assessed by a gynaecologist who will review their symptoms, medical history, examination findings and any investigations already undertaken.\n\n(ii) Diagnostic imaging\n\nSome patients may undergo diagnostic imaging such as a pelvic ultrasound, arranged by their GP prior to referral. Where imaging findings confirm endometriosis, the patient would be triaged to the endometriosis service.\n\nPatients referred to a general gynaecology clinic will undergo a comprehensive assessment, including a clinical examination. Where imaging has not been undertaken previously, an ultrasound may be arranged and depending on the clinical presentation, additional investigations such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be requested. Patients with imaging-confirmed endometriosis would be managed within the endometriosis service. Patients with normal imaging findings who continue to experience symptoms suggestive of endometriosis may be offered medical treatment or may elect to undergo a diagnostic laparoscopy to aid diagnosis and guide subsequent management.\n\n(iii) Diagnostic laparoscopy.\n\nFollowing assessment, some patients may undergo diagnostic laparoscopy to confirm a diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease. This procedure is generally considered where symptoms persist despite treatment, imaging is inconclusive or surgical management is being contemplated. However, a laparoscopy is not required in all cases as diagnosis can often be made based on symptoms, clinical examination and imaging findings.","answerHtml":"Patients presenting to their General Practice (GP) with symptoms suggestive of endometriosis will undergo an initial clinical assessment in primary care. Where endometriosis is suspected, treatment and referral are guided by clinical history, symptoms and relevant professional guidance, including National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis.
(i) A specialist gynaecology assessment;
A patient may be referred by their GP to a secondary care gynaecology service, where symptoms suggest endometriosis and require further investigation. Following referral, patients with suspected endometriosis, but no confirmed diagnosis, will be triaged to a general gynaecology clinic where they will be assessed by a gynaecologist who will review their symptoms, medical history, examination findings and any investigations already undertaken.
(ii) Diagnostic imaging
Some patients may undergo diagnostic imaging such as a pelvic ultrasound, arranged by their GP prior to referral. Where imaging findings confirm endometriosis, the patient would be triaged to the endometriosis service.
Patients referred to a general gynaecology clinic will undergo a comprehensive assessment, including a clinical examination. Where imaging has not been undertaken previously, an ultrasound may be arranged and depending on the clinical presentation, additional investigations such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may also be requested. Patients with imaging-confirmed endometriosis would be managed within the endometriosis service. Patients with normal imaging findings who continue to experience symptoms suggestive of endometriosis may be offered medical treatment or may elect to undergo a diagnostic laparoscopy to aid diagnosis and guide subsequent management.
(iii) Diagnostic laparoscopy.
Following assessment, some patients may undergo diagnostic laparoscopy to confirm a diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease. This procedure is generally considered where symptoms persist despite treatment, imaging is inconclusive or surgical management is being contemplated. However, a laparoscopy is not required in all cases as diagnosis can often be made based on symptoms, clinical examination and imaging findings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050971%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496835"}},{"id":"496834","reference":"AQW 50970/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the median time between (i) GP referral and first gynaecology appointment; (ii) first gynaecology appointment and diagnostic imaging; and (iii) diagnostic imaging and confirmation of an endometriosis diagnosis, within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. in each of the last five financial years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050970%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496834","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496834"}},{"id":"496833","reference":"AQW 50969/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any progress made by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in implementing the NICE guideline NG73 that patients with suspected endometriosis should (i) be offered a transvaginal ultrasound, including where pelvic or abdominal examination is normal; (ii) remain under consideration for further investigation following a normal ultrasound; and (iii) be referred to a specialist endometriosis service where deep endometriosis is suspected.","answerText":"The Northern HSC Trust advises that it aligns its clinical practice with the principles set out in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guideline NG73 on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis.\n\nTransvaginal ultrasound\n\nWomen referred with suspected endometriosis are assessed in line with current clinical guidance. Where appropriate, a transvaginal ultrasound scan is offered to support diagnosis, including in cases where clinical examination findings are normal.\n\nFurther investigation following a normal ultrasound\n\nThe Northern HSC Trust advises that a normal ultrasound result does not exclude the possibility of endometriosis. Patients who continue to experience symptoms suggestive of endometriosis despite normal imaging findings remain under clinical review and may undergo further assessment. Depending on the individual’s symptoms and clinical history, this may include additional imaging, medical management, ongoing monitoring or consideration of diagnostic laparoscopy where clinically appropriate.\n\nReferral to a specialist endometriosis service\n\nWhere imaging or clinical assessment suggests deep endometriosis, including disease affecting the pelvic organs including bowel, bladder or ureters, patients are referred to the specialist endometriosis centres in accordance with regional referral arrangements.","answerHtml":"The Northern HSC Trust advises that it aligns its clinical practice with the principles set out in the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) Guideline NG73 on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis.
Transvaginal ultrasound
Women referred with suspected endometriosis are assessed in line with current clinical guidance. Where appropriate, a transvaginal ultrasound scan is offered to support diagnosis, including in cases where clinical examination findings are normal.
Further investigation following a normal ultrasound
The Northern HSC Trust advises that a normal ultrasound result does not exclude the possibility of endometriosis. Patients who continue to experience symptoms suggestive of endometriosis despite normal imaging findings remain under clinical review and may undergo further assessment. Depending on the individual’s symptoms and clinical history, this may include additional imaging, medical management, ongoing monitoring or consideration of diagnostic laparoscopy where clinically appropriate.
Referral to a specialist endometriosis service
Where imaging or clinical assessment suggests deep endometriosis, including disease affecting the pelvic organs including bowel, bladder or ureters, patients are referred to the specialist endometriosis centres in accordance with regional referral arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050969%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496833","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496833"}},{"id":"496832","reference":"AQW 50968/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-04","answerBy":"2026-09-21","answered":"2026-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the endometriosis diagnostic and assessment services available at (i) Causeway Hospital; (ii) Antrim Area Hospital; and (iii) other Northern Health and Social Care Trust facilities.","answerText":"The Northern HSC Trust does not currently provide a dedicated specialist endometriosis service. Women with suspected endometriosis are referred and assessed through existing general gynaecology pathways.\n\nAssessment and diagnostic services are available at both Causeway Hospital and Antrim Area Hospital. As a definitive diagnosis of endometriosis can only be confirmed following a laparoscopic procedure, diagnostic laparoscopy is available at both sites. In addition, assessment and diagnostic laparoscopic procedures may be available at Whiteabbey Hospital and Mid Ulster Hospital, subject to individual clinical risk assessment and service availability.\n\nThe HSC Trust is currently working with commissioners to develop and resource a dedicated endometriosis pathway. The aim is to improve and expedite access to assessment, diagnosis and treatment for women experiencing symptoms of, or living with, endometriosis.","answerHtml":"The Northern HSC Trust does not currently provide a dedicated specialist endometriosis service. Women with suspected endometriosis are referred and assessed through existing general gynaecology pathways.
Assessment and diagnostic services are available at both Causeway Hospital and Antrim Area Hospital. As a definitive diagnosis of endometriosis can only be confirmed following a laparoscopic procedure, diagnostic laparoscopy is available at both sites. In addition, assessment and diagnostic laparoscopic procedures may be available at Whiteabbey Hospital and Mid Ulster Hospital, subject to individual clinical risk assessment and service availability.
The HSC Trust is currently working with commissioners to develop and resource a dedicated endometriosis pathway. The aim is to improve and expedite access to assessment, diagnosis and treatment for women experiencing symptoms of, or living with, endometriosis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050968%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496832"}},{"id":"496670","reference":"AQW 50827/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any support that is available to people following a diagnosis of dementia; (ii) any support that is available to their families and carers; and (iii) any waiting times to access these services, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust,","answerText":"In line with the Regional Dementia Care Pathway, people diagnosed with dementia should be supported not only to understand their diagnosis, but also to access the information, advice and practical assistance needed to adapt to changes in their circumstances and live well with dementia. The \"Finding Out It Is Dementia and Coping with Change\" pillar of the pathway highlights the importance of comprehensive post-diagnostic support for individuals and their carers’. To support this objective, the Health and Social Care system provides a range of services and supports for people living with dementia and their families and carers. Access to services is based on an individual's assessed needs and circumstances, with the aim of supporting people to maintain independence, wellbeing and quality of life for as long as possible.\n\nFollowing a diagnosis of dementia, individuals have access to a range of post-diagnostic supports and interventions, including:\n\nOngoing assessment, treatment, review and support through Memory Services and multidisciplinary community mental health and older people's services. These services provide information, education and treatment to support individuals to understand their diagnosis, manage their condition and plan for future care needs.\n\nDementia Navigator Services are available across all HSC Trusts and provide a key source of post-diagnostic support. Dementia Navigators offer information, education, practical assistance and signposting to statutory, community and voluntary sector services. They support individuals and their families from the point of diagnosis and throughout their dementia journey, and can also facilitate carer assessments where appropriate.\n\nBased on assessed need, individuals may also access a range of community-based health and social care services, including home care, day opportunities, respite services, advocacy support, Hospital at Home, reablement services and supported living arrangements.\n\nPeople living with dementia may also benefit from a wide range of services delivered by the community and voluntary sector, including dementia cafés, peer support groups, befriending services, wellbeing programmes and activities designed to reduce social isolation and promote independence and social inclusion.\n\nFamilies and carers play a central role in supporting people living with dementia and are offered a range of dedicated supports to assist them in that role.\n\nThese supports include information and advice, involvement in care planning, carer assessments, support planning and access to respite and short-break services where appropriate and available. Carers are also supported through Dementia Navigator Services, which provide ongoing guidance, practical assistance and signposting throughout the individual's care journey.\n\nIn addition, HSC Trusts commission and provide a range of support services specifically for carers, including the Alzheimer's Society Carer Information and Support Programme (CrISP) and local carers' support services.\n\nFamilies and carers may also be referred or signposted to community and voluntary sector organisations, including Alzheimer's Society, Dementia NI, Age NI and local carer support networks, which provide education, emotional support, peer support and opportunities to connect with others with shared experiences.\n\nWhere an individual's needs become more complex, Memory Services may provide or arrange access to specialist interventions, for support in behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), with the aim of maximising independence, supporting people to remain safely at home and reducing avoidable hospital admissions.\n\nInformation on waiting times is routinely collected for Memory Service assessments; however, waiting time information for wider post-diagnostic dementia support services is not available regionally.\n\nThe Department continues to work with HSC Trusts and partners across the community and voluntary sector to strengthen post-diagnostic support for people living with dementia and their carers’ in line with the objective of providing timely, person-centred care closer to home.","answerHtml":"In line with the Regional Dementia Care Pathway, people diagnosed with dementia should be supported not only to understand their diagnosis, but also to access the information, advice and practical assistance needed to adapt to changes in their circumstances and live well with dementia. The "Finding Out It Is Dementia and Coping with Change" pillar of the pathway highlights the importance of comprehensive post-diagnostic support for individuals and their carers’. To support this objective, the Health and Social Care system provides a range of services and supports for people living with dementia and their families and carers. Access to services is based on an individual's assessed needs and circumstances, with the aim of supporting people to maintain independence, wellbeing and quality of life for as long as possible.
Following a diagnosis of dementia, individuals have access to a range of post-diagnostic supports and interventions, including:
Ongoing assessment, treatment, review and support through Memory Services and multidisciplinary community mental health and older people's services. These services provide information, education and treatment to support individuals to understand their diagnosis, manage their condition and plan for future care needs.
Dementia Navigator Services are available across all HSC Trusts and provide a key source of post-diagnostic support. Dementia Navigators offer information, education, practical assistance and signposting to statutory, community and voluntary sector services. They support individuals and their families from the point of diagnosis and throughout their dementia journey, and can also facilitate carer assessments where appropriate.
Based on assessed need, individuals may also access a range of community-based health and social care services, including home care, day opportunities, respite services, advocacy support, Hospital at Home, reablement services and supported living arrangements.
People living with dementia may also benefit from a wide range of services delivered by the community and voluntary sector, including dementia cafés, peer support groups, befriending services, wellbeing programmes and activities designed to reduce social isolation and promote independence and social inclusion.
Families and carers play a central role in supporting people living with dementia and are offered a range of dedicated supports to assist them in that role.
These supports include information and advice, involvement in care planning, carer assessments, support planning and access to respite and short-break services where appropriate and available. Carers are also supported through Dementia Navigator Services, which provide ongoing guidance, practical assistance and signposting throughout the individual's care journey.
In addition, HSC Trusts commission and provide a range of support services specifically for carers, including the Alzheimer's Society Carer Information and Support Programme (CrISP) and local carers' support services.
Families and carers may also be referred or signposted to community and voluntary sector organisations, including Alzheimer's Society, Dementia NI, Age NI and local carer support networks, which provide education, emotional support, peer support and opportunities to connect with others with shared experiences.
Where an individual's needs become more complex, Memory Services may provide or arrange access to specialist interventions, for support in behavioural and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), with the aim of maximising independence, supporting people to remain safely at home and reducing avoidable hospital admissions.
Information on waiting times is routinely collected for Memory Service assessments; however, waiting time information for wider post-diagnostic dementia support services is not available regionally.
The Department continues to work with HSC Trusts and partners across the community and voluntary sector to strengthen post-diagnostic support for people living with dementia and their carers’ in line with the objective of providing timely, person-centred care closer to home.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050827%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496670"}},{"id":"496669","reference":"AQW 50826/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to people diagnosed with dementia, to detail (i) any domiciliary care and community-based support available to enable people to remain independently in their own homes; (ii) the number of people currently receiving this support; and (iii) the number currently waiting for access to this support, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050826%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496669"}},{"id":"496668","reference":"AQW 50825/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of residential and nursing care places available for people with complex dementia needs; (ii) the number of people currently awaiting an appropriate placement; (iii) the average waiting time for a placement; and (iv) any action that is being taken to address identified gaps in provision, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050825%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496668"}},{"id":"496667","reference":"AQW 50824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people currently waiting for an initial memory assessment; (ii) the average waiting time; (iii) the longest current waiting time; and (iv) the number of people waiting longer than the nine-week target, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust,","answerText":"Data is not currently collected regarding average waiting time.\n\nPatients Awaiting for an initial memory assessment with Dementia Services by HSC Trust: July 2026\nTrust\tTotal\t> 9 Weeks\tLongest Wait in Weeks\nBelfast\t749\t525\t55\nNorthern\t767\t431\t38\nSouth Eastern\t957\t627\t129\nSouthern\t413\t188\t18\nWestern\t162\t0\t6\n\nBelfast HSC Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust have very traditional consultant led models for memory assessment, unlike the other HSC Trusts who have a multidisciplinary memory assessment model, and this is a contributory factor to the numbers waiting and length of waits for memory assessment in these two Trusts, as there is a finite medical resource. Northern HSC Trust has the largest population of older people in Northern Ireland which is a contributory factor to their numbers waiting and the length of waits for memory assessment.\n\nThrough the Support and Intervention Framework, my Department is taking steps to reduce the significant waiting times currently experienced for memory assessment services, thereby supporting more timely access to assessment and intervention.\n\nMy Department has convened a regional Dementia Encompass Group to focus on enhancing the availability and analysis of data relating to dementia activity levels and waiting times to diagnosis. This will support a more comprehensive understanding of demand, capacity and performance across services and strengthen my Department’s ability to use data to drive service improvement, support earlier diagnosis and ensure that dementia services are responsive to the needs of patients and their families.","answerHtml":"Data is not currently collected regarding average waiting time.
| Patients Awaiting for an initial memory assessment with Dementia Services by HSC Trust: July 2026 | |||
| Trust | Total | > 9 Weeks | Longest Wait in Weeks |
| Belfast | 749 | 525 | 55 |
| Northern | 767 | 431 | 38 |
| South Eastern | 957 | 627 | 129 |
| Southern | 413 | 188 | 18 |
| Western | 162 | 0 | 6 |
Belfast HSC Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust have very traditional consultant led models for memory assessment, unlike the other HSC Trusts who have a multidisciplinary memory assessment model, and this is a contributory factor to the numbers waiting and length of waits for memory assessment in these two Trusts, as there is a finite medical resource. Northern HSC Trust has the largest population of older people in Northern Ireland which is a contributory factor to their numbers waiting and the length of waits for memory assessment.
Through the Support and Intervention Framework, my Department is taking steps to reduce the significant waiting times currently experienced for memory assessment services, thereby supporting more timely access to assessment and intervention.
My Department has convened a regional Dementia Encompass Group to focus on enhancing the availability and analysis of data relating to dementia activity levels and waiting times to diagnosis. This will support a more comprehensive understanding of demand, capacity and performance across services and strengthen my Department’s ability to use data to drive service improvement, support earlier diagnosis and ensure that dementia services are responsive to the needs of patients and their families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496667"}},{"id":"496666","reference":"AQW 50823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the projected increase in the number of people living with dementia over the next ten years, (i) whether any assessment has been made of the anticipated increase in demand for dementia services; (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the additional workforce capacity that will be required; and (iii) to detail any plans that are in place to ensure sufficient diagnostic, community and residential care provision.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496666","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496666"}},{"id":"498121","reference":"AQO 3907/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-03","answerBy":"2026-09-14","answered":"2026-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline any progress made towards delivering a new build for Causeway Academy to enable all pupils to be educated on a single site.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA), as proposer of the Development Proposal to establish the new Causeway Academy, is proceeding with its implementation.\n\nThe new Causeway Academy opened this month and will operate across the three existing sites. From September 2027 Causeway Academy will operate from two sites, Carthall Road Campus and Cloyfin Campus.\n\nThe Bushmills Campus will close for pupils at the end of June 2027. EA is currently reviewing options for the future use of the Dunluce School site in Bushmills.\n\nWhile it is preferable to operate on a single site basis, the newly amalgamated schools will, in the main, operate on a split site basis until it secures a place to advance in planning under the major capital works programme.\n\nThe Education Authority’s vision remains for a new build for Causeway Academy, however, Causeway Academy will operate from the existing sites until it is approved for major capital investment.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA), as proposer of the Development Proposal to establish the new Causeway Academy, is proceeding with its implementation.
The new Causeway Academy opened this month and will operate across the three existing sites. From September 2027 Causeway Academy will operate from two sites, Carthall Road Campus and Cloyfin Campus.
The Bushmills Campus will close for pupils at the end of June 2027. EA is currently reviewing options for the future use of the Dunluce School site in Bushmills.
While it is preferable to operate on a single site basis, the newly amalgamated schools will, in the main, operate on a split site basis until it secures a place to advance in planning under the major capital works programme.
The Education Authority’s vision remains for a new build for Causeway Academy, however, Causeway Academy will operate from the existing sites until it is approved for major capital investment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203907%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=498121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=498121"}},{"id":"496489","reference":"AQW 50701/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any action (i) her Department; and (ii) Tourism NI is taking to secure further major international sporting, cultural and tourism events for the Causeway Coast, following the success of the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush.","answerText":"As Economy Minister I fully support the hosting of major events here, given the significant economic, media, and social benefits they bring.\n\nMy Department has developed the Tourism Vision & Action Plan, and within this, Tourism NI has responsibility for the tourism events portfolio. At present Tourism NI is developing a new future approach to events that will include consideration of internationally mobile events as well as the development of our home–grown portfolio.\n\nMajor Event proposals are considered on the merits of the individual events, subject to value for money and affordability considerations.","answerHtml":"As Economy Minister I fully support the hosting of major events here, given the significant economic, media, and social benefits they bring.
My Department has developed the Tourism Vision & Action Plan, and within this, Tourism NI has responsibility for the tourism events portfolio. At present Tourism NI is developing a new future approach to events that will include consideration of internationally mobile events as well as the development of our home–grown portfolio.
Major Event proposals are considered on the merits of the individual events, subject to value for money and affordability considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050701%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496489"}},{"id":"496488","reference":"AQW 50700/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any action her Department is taking to support the sustainability and growth of tourism and hospitality businesses in areas with a high dependence on seasonal tourism, including support to address increasing operating costs.","answerText":"Tourism NI provides a suite of free advisory business supports and marketing opportunities which are open to all tourism and hospitality businesses here including hybrid workshops, webinars, masterclasses and e-learning courses.\n\nA range of educational and instructional toolkits support these initiatives and is tailored to tourism businesses at various stages of development.\n\nTourism and hospitality start-up businesses are also encouraged to avail of dedicated supports and programmes such as Go Succeed, which is funded across the eleven councils and assists businesses from start-up through growth and scalability.\n\nEmbedded in expertise and insightful research, these initiatives cover a range of areas including digital transformation, people practices, enhanced marketing, inclusion and accessibility, and innovation with a focus on reducing costs, improving productivity and enhancing sustainability. These can be accessed through the Business Hub on TourismNI.com.\n\nAs a direct response to rising operating costs, Tourism NI developed a specific range of bespoke supports and programmes to address cost management and reduction. Specific modules include Pricing for Profit, Managing Wage Costs and the Leaner and Greener series, containing practical steps to reduce costs through the management of waste, water and energy.\n\nFurthermore, tourism businesses have free access to MyTourismNI, a dedicated e-learning platform, which features modules on Operational Effectiveness, Streamlining Business Processes, Business Planning and Financial Fundamentals.\n\nIn addition, Tourism NI plays an important legislative role in the certification of accommodation, providing guidance on business owners' obligations when starting and running various types of accommodation. A range of support, advice and guidance is available online and through visits from a dedicated Tourism NI Officer.\n\nAdditional Business Support programmes focus on key strategic development needs such as Business Resilience, Workplace Excellence, Digital Excellence and Sustainable Tourism. These programmes provide a more in-depth approach through dedicated action planning. The programmes are advertised widely and are accessed by application subject to eligibility criteria.\n\nLaunched in June in response to challenging operating conditions, the Tourism Business Resilience Programme was designed specifically to support long-term financial resilience and sustainability in the sector. The programme offers fully funded one-to-one expert financial guidance to help businesses review cost centres and build long-term financial resilience. These programmes are advertised widely and places are awarded in line with key criteria. There are currently four participating businesses on this programme from the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nAs well as promoting business sustainability and long-term competitiveness, Tourism NI is actively supporting the development of new tourism experiences and attractions across the north, including within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, to drive long-term appeal and differentiation.\n\nTo do this, Tourism NI provides a range of online resources that support the design, development and enhancement of high-quality tourism experiences aligned to market and visitor expectations. Covering the visitor themes of culture and heritage, food and drink, and landscapes and outdoors, these resources help businesses strengthen the quality, appeal and market readiness of their tourism offering.\n\nThrough its Experience Development team, Tourism NI works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to identify opportunities that build on the area's unique appeal and contribute to local economic growth.\n\nThis includes identifying high-potential tourism experiences that may benefit from participation in Tourism NI's Experience Portfolio, which provides ongoing strategic support to enhance quality, market readiness and commercial appeal, while strengthening our overall destination offering.\n\nTourism NI currently has sixteen businesses in the portfolio representing 15% of the overall group.\n\nIn addition, the Sustainable Tourism Business Programme has six businesses from the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough which have participated across five completed cohorts.\n\nThe Council's Tourism Development team also participates in Tourism NI's Embrace a Giant Spirit Council Ambassador Network, a quarterly group bringing together tourism managers from all regional councils. The network promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing and a consistent approach to tourism experience development, ensuring best practice is shared and opportunities are maximised across the sector.\n\nIn addition, Tourism NI supports and participates in a range of in-person industry events and works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to engage directly with tourism businesses, share expertise, highlight available support and encourage the development of new and enhanced visitor experiences.\n\nTourism NI's investment in marketing campaigns and promotional activity helps drive demand for tourism and hospitality businesses at no cost to them. Tourism NI promotes a variety of marketing opportunities for businesses to get involved in to maximise their reach to targeted audiences and increase visibility for both individual businesses and the wider destination.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI provides a suite of free advisory business supports and marketing opportunities which are open to all tourism and hospitality businesses here including hybrid workshops, webinars, masterclasses and e-learning courses.
A range of educational and instructional toolkits support these initiatives and is tailored to tourism businesses at various stages of development.
Tourism and hospitality start-up businesses are also encouraged to avail of dedicated supports and programmes such as Go Succeed, which is funded across the eleven councils and assists businesses from start-up through growth and scalability.
Embedded in expertise and insightful research, these initiatives cover a range of areas including digital transformation, people practices, enhanced marketing, inclusion and accessibility, and innovation with a focus on reducing costs, improving productivity and enhancing sustainability. These can be accessed through the Business Hub on TourismNI.com.
As a direct response to rising operating costs, Tourism NI developed a specific range of bespoke supports and programmes to address cost management and reduction. Specific modules include Pricing for Profit, Managing Wage Costs and the Leaner and Greener series, containing practical steps to reduce costs through the management of waste, water and energy.
Furthermore, tourism businesses have free access to MyTourismNI, a dedicated e-learning platform, which features modules on Operational Effectiveness, Streamlining Business Processes, Business Planning and Financial Fundamentals.
In addition, Tourism NI plays an important legislative role in the certification of accommodation, providing guidance on business owners' obligations when starting and running various types of accommodation. A range of support, advice and guidance is available online and through visits from a dedicated Tourism NI Officer.
Additional Business Support programmes focus on key strategic development needs such as Business Resilience, Workplace Excellence, Digital Excellence and Sustainable Tourism. These programmes provide a more in-depth approach through dedicated action planning. The programmes are advertised widely and are accessed by application subject to eligibility criteria.
Launched in June in response to challenging operating conditions, the Tourism Business Resilience Programme was designed specifically to support long-term financial resilience and sustainability in the sector. The programme offers fully funded one-to-one expert financial guidance to help businesses review cost centres and build long-term financial resilience. These programmes are advertised widely and places are awarded in line with key criteria. There are currently four participating businesses on this programme from the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
As well as promoting business sustainability and long-term competitiveness, Tourism NI is actively supporting the development of new tourism experiences and attractions across the north, including within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, to drive long-term appeal and differentiation.
To do this, Tourism NI provides a range of online resources that support the design, development and enhancement of high-quality tourism experiences aligned to market and visitor expectations. Covering the visitor themes of culture and heritage, food and drink, and landscapes and outdoors, these resources help businesses strengthen the quality, appeal and market readiness of their tourism offering.
Through its Experience Development team, Tourism NI works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to identify opportunities that build on the area's unique appeal and contribute to local economic growth.
This includes identifying high-potential tourism experiences that may benefit from participation in Tourism NI's Experience Portfolio, which provides ongoing strategic support to enhance quality, market readiness and commercial appeal, while strengthening our overall destination offering.
Tourism NI currently has sixteen businesses in the portfolio representing 15% of the overall group.
In addition, the Sustainable Tourism Business Programme has six businesses from the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough which have participated across five completed cohorts.
The Council's Tourism Development team also participates in Tourism NI's Embrace a Giant Spirit Council Ambassador Network, a quarterly group bringing together tourism managers from all regional councils. The network promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing and a consistent approach to tourism experience development, ensuring best practice is shared and opportunities are maximised across the sector.
In addition, Tourism NI supports and participates in a range of in-person industry events and works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to engage directly with tourism businesses, share expertise, highlight available support and encourage the development of new and enhanced visitor experiences.
Tourism NI's investment in marketing campaigns and promotional activity helps drive demand for tourism and hospitality businesses at no cost to them. Tourism NI promotes a variety of marketing opportunities for businesses to get involved in to maximise their reach to targeted audiences and increase visibility for both individual businesses and the wider destination.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050700%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496488"}},{"id":"496487","reference":"AQW 50699/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any support available to people seeking to establish or grow a tourism or hospitality business in the Causeway Coast and Glens.","answerText":"Tourism NI provides a suite of free advisory business supports and marketing opportunities which are open to all tourism and hospitality businesses here including hybrid workshops, webinars, masterclasses and e-learning courses.\n\nA range of educational and instructional toolkits support these initiatives and is tailored to tourism businesses at various stages of development.\n\nTourism and hospitality start-up businesses are also encouraged to avail of dedicated supports and programmes such as Go Succeed, which is funded across the eleven councils and assists businesses from start-up through growth and scalability.\n\nEmbedded in expertise and insightful research, these initiatives cover a range of areas including digital transformation, people practices, enhanced marketing, inclusion and accessibility, and innovation with a focus on reducing costs, improving productivity and enhancing sustainability. These can be accessed through the Business Hub on TourismNI.com.\n\nAs a direct response to rising operating costs, Tourism NI developed a specific range of bespoke supports and programmes to address cost management and reduction. Specific modules include Pricing for Profit, Managing Wage Costs and the Leaner and Greener series, containing practical steps to reduce costs through the management of waste, water and energy.\n\nFurthermore, tourism businesses have free access to MyTourismNI, a dedicated e-learning platform, which features modules on Operational Effectiveness, Streamlining Business Processes, Business Planning and Financial Fundamentals.\n\nIn addition, Tourism NI plays an important legislative role in the certification of accommodation, providing guidance on business owners' obligations when starting and running various types of accommodation. A range of support, advice and guidance is available online and through visits from a dedicated Tourism NI Officer.\n\nAdditional Business Support programmes focus on key strategic development needs such as Business Resilience, Workplace Excellence, Digital Excellence and Sustainable Tourism. These programmes provide a more in-depth approach through dedicated action planning. The programmes are advertised widely and are accessed by application subject to eligibility criteria.\n\nLaunched in June in response to challenging operating conditions, the Tourism Business Resilience Programme was designed specifically to support long-term financial resilience and sustainability in the sector. The programme offers fully funded one-to-one expert financial guidance to help businesses review cost centres and build long-term financial resilience. These programmes are advertised widely and places are awarded in line with key criteria. There are currently four participating businesses on this programme from the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nAs well as promoting business sustainability and long-term competitiveness, Tourism NI is actively supporting the development of new tourism experiences and attractions across the north, including within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, to drive long-term appeal and differentiation.\n\nTo do this, Tourism NI provides a range of online resources that support the design, development and enhancement of high-quality tourism experiences aligned to market and visitor expectations. Covering the visitor themes of culture and heritage, food and drink, and landscapes and outdoors, these resources help businesses strengthen the quality, appeal and market readiness of their tourism offering.\n\nThrough its Experience Development team, Tourism NI works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to identify opportunities that build on the area's unique appeal and contribute to local economic growth.\n\nThis includes identifying high-potential tourism experiences that may benefit from participation in Tourism NI's Experience Portfolio, which provides ongoing strategic support to enhance quality, market readiness and commercial appeal, while strengthening our overall destination offering.\n\nTourism NI currently has sixteen businesses in the portfolio representing 15% of the overall group.\n\nIn addition, the Sustainable Tourism Business Programme has six businesses from the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough which have participated across five completed cohorts.\n\nThe Council's Tourism Development team also participates in Tourism NI's Embrace a Giant Spirit Council Ambassador Network, a quarterly group bringing together tourism managers from all regional councils. The network promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing and a consistent approach to tourism experience development, ensuring best practice is shared and opportunities are maximised across the sector.\n\nIn addition, Tourism NI supports and participates in a range of in-person industry events and works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to engage directly with tourism businesses, share expertise, highlight available support and encourage the development of new and enhanced visitor experiences.\n\nTourism NI's investment in marketing campaigns and promotional activity helps drive demand for tourism and hospitality businesses at no cost to them. Tourism NI promotes a variety of marketing opportunities for businesses to get involved in to maximise their reach to targeted audiences and increase visibility for both individual businesses and the wider destination.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI provides a suite of free advisory business supports and marketing opportunities which are open to all tourism and hospitality businesses here including hybrid workshops, webinars, masterclasses and e-learning courses.
A range of educational and instructional toolkits support these initiatives and is tailored to tourism businesses at various stages of development.
Tourism and hospitality start-up businesses are also encouraged to avail of dedicated supports and programmes such as Go Succeed, which is funded across the eleven councils and assists businesses from start-up through growth and scalability.
Embedded in expertise and insightful research, these initiatives cover a range of areas including digital transformation, people practices, enhanced marketing, inclusion and accessibility, and innovation with a focus on reducing costs, improving productivity and enhancing sustainability. These can be accessed through the Business Hub on TourismNI.com.
As a direct response to rising operating costs, Tourism NI developed a specific range of bespoke supports and programmes to address cost management and reduction. Specific modules include Pricing for Profit, Managing Wage Costs and the Leaner and Greener series, containing practical steps to reduce costs through the management of waste, water and energy.
Furthermore, tourism businesses have free access to MyTourismNI, a dedicated e-learning platform, which features modules on Operational Effectiveness, Streamlining Business Processes, Business Planning and Financial Fundamentals.
In addition, Tourism NI plays an important legislative role in the certification of accommodation, providing guidance on business owners' obligations when starting and running various types of accommodation. A range of support, advice and guidance is available online and through visits from a dedicated Tourism NI Officer.
Additional Business Support programmes focus on key strategic development needs such as Business Resilience, Workplace Excellence, Digital Excellence and Sustainable Tourism. These programmes provide a more in-depth approach through dedicated action planning. The programmes are advertised widely and are accessed by application subject to eligibility criteria.
Launched in June in response to challenging operating conditions, the Tourism Business Resilience Programme was designed specifically to support long-term financial resilience and sustainability in the sector. The programme offers fully funded one-to-one expert financial guidance to help businesses review cost centres and build long-term financial resilience. These programmes are advertised widely and places are awarded in line with key criteria. There are currently four participating businesses on this programme from the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
As well as promoting business sustainability and long-term competitiveness, Tourism NI is actively supporting the development of new tourism experiences and attractions across the north, including within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, to drive long-term appeal and differentiation.
To do this, Tourism NI provides a range of online resources that support the design, development and enhancement of high-quality tourism experiences aligned to market and visitor expectations. Covering the visitor themes of culture and heritage, food and drink, and landscapes and outdoors, these resources help businesses strengthen the quality, appeal and market readiness of their tourism offering.
Through its Experience Development team, Tourism NI works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to identify opportunities that build on the area's unique appeal and contribute to local economic growth.
This includes identifying high-potential tourism experiences that may benefit from participation in Tourism NI's Experience Portfolio, which provides ongoing strategic support to enhance quality, market readiness and commercial appeal, while strengthening our overall destination offering.
Tourism NI currently has sixteen businesses in the portfolio representing 15% of the overall group.
In addition, the Sustainable Tourism Business Programme has six businesses from the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough which have participated across five completed cohorts.
The Council's Tourism Development team also participates in Tourism NI's Embrace a Giant Spirit Council Ambassador Network, a quarterly group bringing together tourism managers from all regional councils. The network promotes collaboration, knowledge sharing and a consistent approach to tourism experience development, ensuring best practice is shared and opportunities are maximised across the sector.
In addition, Tourism NI supports and participates in a range of in-person industry events and works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to engage directly with tourism businesses, share expertise, highlight available support and encourage the development of new and enhanced visitor experiences.
Tourism NI's investment in marketing campaigns and promotional activity helps drive demand for tourism and hospitality businesses at no cost to them. Tourism NI promotes a variety of marketing opportunities for businesses to get involved in to maximise their reach to targeted audiences and increase visibility for both individual businesses and the wider destination.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050699%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496487"}},{"id":"496486","reference":"AQW 50698/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any action Tourism NI is taking to support the development of new tourism experiences and attractions in the Causeway Coast and Glens.","answerText":"Tourism NI is actively supporting the development of new tourism experiences and attractions acrossthe north, including within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area.\n\nTo do this, Tourism NI provides a range of online resources, including a dedicated e-learning platform and practical experience development toolkits. These resources offer businesses access to guidance, tools and learning modules that support the design, development and enhancement of high-quality tourism experiences. Covering the themes of culture and heritage, food and drink and landscapes and outdoors, they help businesses strengthen the quality, appeal and market readiness of their tourism businesses.\n\nThrough its Experience Development team, Tourism NI works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to identify opportunities that build on the area's unique appeal. This includes identifying high-potential tourism experiences that may benefit from participation in Tourism NI's Experience Portfolio which provides ongoing strategic support to enhance experience quality, market readiness and commercial appeal, while strengthening our overall destination offering.\n\nCollaboration with the council is further supported through Tourism NI's Embrace a Giant Spirit Council Ambassador Network. This quarterly forum brings together tourism managers from all 11 councils to share knowledge, promote best practice and encourage a consistent approach to tourism experience development, helping to maximise opportunities across the sector.\n\nAlongside this, Tourism NI supports and participates in a range of in-person industry events and works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to engage directly with tourism businesses, share expertise, highlight available support and encourage the development of new and enhanced visitor experiences.\n\nTourism NI is also working with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland through the £6.5 million Shared Island Tourism Brand Collaboration Project to strengthen the Causeway Coastal Route's position as a premier international touring route and to create stronger links with the Wild Atlantic Way. This collaboration is supporting the development of new visitor experiences, enhancing the quality of the tourism offer and increasing the visibility of the Causeway Coast and Glens in key domestic and international markets.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI is actively supporting the development of new tourism experiences and attractions acrossthe north, including within the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area.
To do this, Tourism NI provides a range of online resources, including a dedicated e-learning platform and practical experience development toolkits. These resources offer businesses access to guidance, tools and learning modules that support the design, development and enhancement of high-quality tourism experiences. Covering the themes of culture and heritage, food and drink and landscapes and outdoors, they help businesses strengthen the quality, appeal and market readiness of their tourism businesses.
Through its Experience Development team, Tourism NI works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to identify opportunities that build on the area's unique appeal. This includes identifying high-potential tourism experiences that may benefit from participation in Tourism NI's Experience Portfolio which provides ongoing strategic support to enhance experience quality, market readiness and commercial appeal, while strengthening our overall destination offering.
Collaboration with the council is further supported through Tourism NI's Embrace a Giant Spirit Council Ambassador Network. This quarterly forum brings together tourism managers from all 11 councils to share knowledge, promote best practice and encourage a consistent approach to tourism experience development, helping to maximise opportunities across the sector.
Alongside this, Tourism NI supports and participates in a range of in-person industry events and works closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to engage directly with tourism businesses, share expertise, highlight available support and encourage the development of new and enhanced visitor experiences.
Tourism NI is also working with Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland through the £6.5 million Shared Island Tourism Brand Collaboration Project to strengthen the Causeway Coastal Route's position as a premier international touring route and to create stronger links with the Wild Atlantic Way. This collaboration is supporting the development of new visitor experiences, enhancing the quality of the tourism offer and increasing the visibility of the Causeway Coast and Glens in key domestic and international markets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050698%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496486","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496486"}},{"id":"496485","reference":"AQW 50697/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-02","answerBy":"2026-09-17","answered":"2026-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the estimated annual economic contribution of tourism to the Causeway Coast and Glens; (ii) the number of businesses supported by the tourism economy; and (iii) the number of jobs supported by the sector, over the last three years.","answerText":"Data published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) relating to spend on overnight trips taken in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council indicate:\n\nIn 2023 £204 million was spent in the area (representing 17% of overnight trip expenditure here)\n\nIn 2024 £210 million was spent in the area (17% of overnight trip expenditure here)\n\nIn 2025 £184 million was spent in the area (15% of overnight trip expenditure here)\n\nNISRA advise that annual overnight trip expenditure estimates for local government districts should not be compared directly year-on-year.\n\nData published by NISRA on VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council indicate:\n\nIn 2023 there were 490 tourism businesses operating in the area (representing 8% of VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating here)\n\nIn 2024 there were 520 tourism businesses operating in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (8% of total VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating here)\n\nIn 2025 there were 540 tourism businesses (9% of total VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating here)\n\nThe latest available NISRA tourism employee jobs figures for the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council relate to 2022. Figures were not published for 2020.\n\nIn 2021 there were 5,094 tourism employee jobs in the area (representing 8% of total tourism employee jobs here)\n\nIn 2022 there were 5,602 tourism employee jobs (8% of total tourism employee jobs here)","answerHtml":"Data published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) relating to spend on overnight trips taken in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council indicate:
In 2023 £204 million was spent in the area (representing 17% of overnight trip expenditure here)
In 2024 £210 million was spent in the area (17% of overnight trip expenditure here)
In 2025 £184 million was spent in the area (15% of overnight trip expenditure here)
NISRA advise that annual overnight trip expenditure estimates for local government districts should not be compared directly year-on-year.
Data published by NISRA on VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council indicate:
In 2023 there were 490 tourism businesses operating in the area (representing 8% of VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating here)
In 2024 there were 520 tourism businesses operating in the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (8% of total VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating here)
In 2025 there were 540 tourism businesses (9% of total VAT and/or PAYE tourism businesses operating here)
The latest available NISRA tourism employee jobs figures for the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council relate to 2022. Figures were not published for 2020.
In 2021 there were 5,094 tourism employee jobs in the area (representing 8% of total tourism employee jobs here)
In 2022 there were 5,602 tourism employee jobs (8% of total tourism employee jobs here)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050697%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496485"}},{"id":"496295","reference":"AQW 50593/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery at Causeway Hospital, to detail (i) the projected annual number of patients who would require transfer from Causeway Hospital to Antrim Area Hospital; (ii) the projected number requiring emergency transfer; and (iii) any modelling undertaken of transfer times.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050593%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496295"}},{"id":"496294","reference":"AQW 50592/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery at Causeway Hospital, to detail (i) any services at Causeway Hospital that are clinically or operationally dependent on the provision of on-site emergency general surgery; (ii) any assessment that has been undertaken of the impact of the removal on each of these services; and (iii) whether any further service reconfiguration is anticipated.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050592%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496294"}},{"id":"496293","reference":"AQW 50591/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":"2026-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any anticipated timeframe for a decision on the proposed reconfiguration of emergency general surgery services at Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"The Northern HSC Trust submitted its consultation feedback report on the proposed reconfiguration of general surgery services to my Department in May 2025. This was an early step in the change and withdrawal of service process. My Department subsequently commissioned an independent GIRFT review which concluded that the proposed clinical model was appropriate and would improve the quality of patient care, reducing the risk of an unplanned service failure.\n\nFurther work continues to assess workforce and service sustainability, clinical outcomes, patient safety and the potential impact on other Trusts and my Department continues to work closely with the Northern Trust to assess how general surgery services can be delivered safely and sustainably at the Causeway Hospital.\n\nAny permanent change must follow the Department’s Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services and will be subject to the appropriate governance and assurance processes. Any decision on a permanent change will require my approval.\n\nSince taking up office, I have visited the Causeway Hospital and met with clinicians and members of the local Causeway Group. Patient safety and the continued provision of safe and sustainable services will remain central to my consideration of any final proposal.","answerHtml":"The Northern HSC Trust submitted its consultation feedback report on the proposed reconfiguration of general surgery services to my Department in May 2025. This was an early step in the change and withdrawal of service process. My Department subsequently commissioned an independent GIRFT review which concluded that the proposed clinical model was appropriate and would improve the quality of patient care, reducing the risk of an unplanned service failure.
Further work continues to assess workforce and service sustainability, clinical outcomes, patient safety and the potential impact on other Trusts and my Department continues to work closely with the Northern Trust to assess how general surgery services can be delivered safely and sustainably at the Causeway Hospital.
Any permanent change must follow the Department’s Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services and will be subject to the appropriate governance and assurance processes. Any decision on a permanent change will require my approval.
Since taking up office, I have visited the Causeway Hospital and met with clinicians and members of the local Causeway Group. Patient safety and the continued provision of safe and sustainable services will remain central to my consideration of any final proposal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050591%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496293"}},{"id":"496292","reference":"AQW 50590/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been undertaken of the capacity of Antrim Area Hospital to accommodate additional emergency general surgery activity currently provided at Causeway Hospital, including (i) Emergency Department capacity; (ii) inpatient bed capacity; and (iii) theatre capacity.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050590%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496292"}},{"id":"496291","reference":"AQW 50589/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-09-01","answerBy":"2026-09-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of (i) admissions to surgical specialties that were elective admissions; (ii) admissions to surgical specialties that were non-elective admissions; (ii) theatre sessions used for elective activity; and (v) theatre sessions used for non-elective activity, in each of the last three financial years, broken down by hospital within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050589%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=496291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=496291"}},{"id":"494060","reference":"AQW 50443/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-08-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of increasing GP workload on patient access to appointments; (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the sustainability of current workload levels within general practice; and (iii) to detail any engagement his Department has had with GP representative bodies in relation to increasing workload pressures in primary care.","answerText":"My priority has been, and continues to be, to ensure that patients can continue to access safe, high quality, sustainable GP services when they need to.\n\nInvestment of £61m over a 5-year period has been announced to support the wider rollout of the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.\n\nTo support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which supports Practices to optimise workflow, manage patient demand and make effective use of technology.\n\nIn addition, work continues to progress the development of a new model of Neighbourhood Care together with a Vision for General Practice. This work will strengthen primary and community care, promote closer multidisciplinary working and improve access to services closer to home.\n\nMy Department engages regularly with representatives of the General Practice profession to understand operational pressures affecting Practices.\n\nThis includes negotiations with Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee on the GMS Contract.\n\nWe want to ensure that a General Medical Services contract is in place that is fit for future purpose and can better meet the changing environment and context in primary care.\n\nAlongside wider primary care reform, we will continue to work with partners across Health and Social Care to support sustainable General Practice services and improve access for patients.","answerHtml":"My priority has been, and continues to be, to ensure that patients can continue to access safe, high quality, sustainable GP services when they need to.
Investment of £61m over a 5-year period has been announced to support the wider rollout of the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.
To support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which supports Practices to optimise workflow, manage patient demand and make effective use of technology.
In addition, work continues to progress the development of a new model of Neighbourhood Care together with a Vision for General Practice. This work will strengthen primary and community care, promote closer multidisciplinary working and improve access to services closer to home.
My Department engages regularly with representatives of the General Practice profession to understand operational pressures affecting Practices.
This includes negotiations with Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee on the GMS Contract.
We want to ensure that a General Medical Services contract is in place that is fit for future purpose and can better meet the changing environment and context in primary care.
Alongside wider primary care reform, we will continue to work with partners across Health and Social Care to support sustainable General Practice services and improve access for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050443%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494060"}},{"id":"494059","reference":"AQW 50442/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail any measures that are in place to ensure that GP practices are appropriately resourced when additional responsibilities are transferred from secondary care settings; and (ii) whether his Department has any plans to commission a review of the adequacy of the current General Medical Services Contract in reflecting the range of services now delivered by GP practices.","answerText":"I fully recognise the pivotal role that General Practice plays within our health and social care system. I am also very aware of the challenges facing General Practice and the impact of increasing demand and workload pressures.\n\nWhile my Department has not undertaken an assessment specifically comparing GP workload at the time the GMS Contract Regulations (NI) 2004 came into effect with current workload levels, it routinely monitors pressures, activity and demand across General Practice through engagement with the profession and wider Health and Social Care partners.\n\nI can assure you that my Department is continuing to take measures to secure improved sustainability of General Practice and support the delivery of these vitally important services. This includes a focus on increasing the capacity of Primary Care through reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in Primary Care, investment in General Practice, and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working.\n\nThe investment of £61m into the Primary Care MDT programme over a 5-year period will expand the range of services available in Primary Care and help address the high levels of demand being dealt with by our GP practices.\n\nMy Department has issued a best practice guide to GP practices to support General Practice in improving service delivery. ‘Making All Contacts Count’ promotes the use of activity data, demand and capacity planning, multidisciplinary working and quality improvement approaches to support Practices in managing workload and improving access for patients. Additionally, as part of the Managing Winter Pressures Northern Ireland Enhanced Service, participating Practices are required to review activity and workload data and identify opportunities to improve workload management. This aims to support planning for future primary care resources and services.\n\nMy Department continues to work with Health and Social Care organisations and General Practice representatives to support appropriate pathways of care and the delivery of services in the most appropriate clinical setting. A range of initiatives are in place to provide care closer to home and reduce avoidable demand on hospital services.\n\nMy Department will also continue to work with GPs as part of our ambition for General Practice to be at the heart of the neighbourhood model of care. A key part of the neighbourhood model will involve mobilising HSC funding to support the realignment of resources to deliver more care in the community. To support this, the system will work to move 2% each year from hospital based spend to community spend, delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. Policy guidance has been drafted to support HSC Trusts in planning for this realignment over the three year period commencing in 2026/27.\n\nIt is recognised that General Practice has evolved significantly since the introduction of the General Medical Services Contract. My Department is committed to working with GP representatives to develop a longer-term contract model that supports the sustainability of General Practice into the future.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the pivotal role that General Practice plays within our health and social care system. I am also very aware of the challenges facing General Practice and the impact of increasing demand and workload pressures.
While my Department has not undertaken an assessment specifically comparing GP workload at the time the GMS Contract Regulations (NI) 2004 came into effect with current workload levels, it routinely monitors pressures, activity and demand across General Practice through engagement with the profession and wider Health and Social Care partners.
I can assure you that my Department is continuing to take measures to secure improved sustainability of General Practice and support the delivery of these vitally important services. This includes a focus on increasing the capacity of Primary Care through reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in Primary Care, investment in General Practice, and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working.
The investment of £61m into the Primary Care MDT programme over a 5-year period will expand the range of services available in Primary Care and help address the high levels of demand being dealt with by our GP practices.
My Department has issued a best practice guide to GP practices to support General Practice in improving service delivery. ‘Making All Contacts Count’ promotes the use of activity data, demand and capacity planning, multidisciplinary working and quality improvement approaches to support Practices in managing workload and improving access for patients. Additionally, as part of the Managing Winter Pressures Northern Ireland Enhanced Service, participating Practices are required to review activity and workload data and identify opportunities to improve workload management. This aims to support planning for future primary care resources and services.
My Department continues to work with Health and Social Care organisations and General Practice representatives to support appropriate pathways of care and the delivery of services in the most appropriate clinical setting. A range of initiatives are in place to provide care closer to home and reduce avoidable demand on hospital services.
My Department will also continue to work with GPs as part of our ambition for General Practice to be at the heart of the neighbourhood model of care. A key part of the neighbourhood model will involve mobilising HSC funding to support the realignment of resources to deliver more care in the community. To support this, the system will work to move 2% each year from hospital based spend to community spend, delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. Policy guidance has been drafted to support HSC Trusts in planning for this realignment over the three year period commencing in 2026/27.
It is recognised that General Practice has evolved significantly since the introduction of the General Medical Services Contract. My Department is committed to working with GP representatives to develop a longer-term contract model that supports the sustainability of General Practice into the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050442%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494059","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494059"}},{"id":"494058","reference":"AQW 50441/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-08-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of administrative and non-clinical duties on the time available for GPs to provide direct patient care; (ii) any steps his Department is taking to reduce unnecessary administrative burdens on GP practices; and (iii) whether his Department maintains guidance for Health and Social Care Trusts on the appropriate division of responsibilities between secondary care services and GP practices.","answerText":"Whilst administrative and non-clinical responsibilities form an important part of General Practice, it is recognised that they can have an impact on the time available for direct patient care.\n\nThe ‘Making all Contacts Count’ best practice guidance issued to GP practices recognises that administrative requirements can detract from time spent on direct patient care and highlights the importance of effective workload management. The guidance supports good practice in demand management and provides a practical framework for identifying and implementing improvements within practice settings.\n\nMy Department has also engaged with relevant Northern Ireland Civil Service Departments and public bodies to explore ways to reduce the administrative burden on GP practices of completing non-statutory administrative tasks and the unnecessary directing of patients to GPs on the part of other Government Departments and public bodies. This work, which was informed by GP representatives, resulted in the review of a number of such tasks and processes to help reduce the impact of these on General Practice.\n\nTo help improve communication and collaborative working across the primary and secondary care interface, my Department engaged with primary and secondary care providers to develop ‘Working Better Together: Consensus & Guidance on the Primary and Secondary Care Interface in Northern Ireland’. The guidance sets out principles to support effective communication and collaboration between primary and secondary care services and the appropriate allocation of responsibilities across the interface, with the aim of reducing inappropriate transfer of workload between sectors.\n\nMy Department continues to work with Health and Social Care Trusts, General Practice representatives and other stakeholders to support implementation of the principles contained within the guidance and to ensure patients receive care in the most appropriate clinical setting.","answerHtml":"Whilst administrative and non-clinical responsibilities form an important part of General Practice, it is recognised that they can have an impact on the time available for direct patient care.
The ‘Making all Contacts Count’ best practice guidance issued to GP practices recognises that administrative requirements can detract from time spent on direct patient care and highlights the importance of effective workload management. The guidance supports good practice in demand management and provides a practical framework for identifying and implementing improvements within practice settings.
My Department has also engaged with relevant Northern Ireland Civil Service Departments and public bodies to explore ways to reduce the administrative burden on GP practices of completing non-statutory administrative tasks and the unnecessary directing of patients to GPs on the part of other Government Departments and public bodies. This work, which was informed by GP representatives, resulted in the review of a number of such tasks and processes to help reduce the impact of these on General Practice.
To help improve communication and collaborative working across the primary and secondary care interface, my Department engaged with primary and secondary care providers to develop ‘Working Better Together: Consensus & Guidance on the Primary and Secondary Care Interface in Northern Ireland’. The guidance sets out principles to support effective communication and collaboration between primary and secondary care services and the appropriate allocation of responsibilities across the interface, with the aim of reducing inappropriate transfer of workload between sectors.
My Department continues to work with Health and Social Care Trusts, General Practice representatives and other stakeholders to support implementation of the principles contained within the guidance and to ensure patients receive care in the most appropriate clinical setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050441%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494058"}},{"id":"494057","reference":"AQW 50440/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of (i) changes in the workload of GP practices since the introduction of the Health and Personal Social Services (General Medical Services Contracts) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004; and (ii) the extent to which responsibilities previously undertaken in secondary care are now being delivered within general practice.","answerText":"I fully recognise the pivotal role that General Practice plays within our health and social care system. I am also very aware of the challenges facing General Practice and the impact of increasing demand and workload pressures.\n\nWhile my Department has not undertaken an assessment specifically comparing GP workload at the time the GMS Contract Regulations (NI) 2004 came into effect with current workload levels, it routinely monitors pressures, activity and demand across General Practice through engagement with the profession and wider Health and Social Care partners.\n\nI can assure you that my Department is continuing to take measures to secure improved sustainability of General Practice and support the delivery of these vitally important services. This includes a focus on increasing the capacity of Primary Care through reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in Primary Care, investment in General Practice, and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working.\n\nThe investment of £61m into the Primary Care MDT programme over a 5-year period will expand the range of services available in Primary Care and help address the high levels of demand being dealt with by our GP practices.\n\nMy Department has issued a best practice guide to GP practices to support General Practice in improving service delivery. ‘Making All Contacts Count’ promotes the use of activity data, demand and capacity planning, multidisciplinary working and quality improvement approaches to support Practices in managing workload and improving access for patients. Additionally, as part of the Managing Winter Pressures Northern Ireland Enhanced Service, participating Practices are required to review activity and workload data and identify opportunities to improve workload management. This aims to support planning for future primary care resources and services.\n\nMy Department continues to work with Health and Social Care organisations and General Practice representatives to support appropriate pathways of care and the delivery of services in the most appropriate clinical setting. A range of initiatives are in place to provide care closer to home and reduce avoidable demand on hospital services.\n\nMy Department will also continue to work with GPs as part of our ambition for General Practice to be at the heart of the neighbourhood model of care. A key part of the neighbourhood model will involve mobilising HSC funding to support the realignment of resources to deliver more care in the community. To support this, the system will work to move 2% each year from hospital based spend to community spend, delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. Policy guidance has been drafted to support HSC Trusts in planning for this realignment over the three year period commencing in 2026/27.\n\nIt is recognised that General Practice has evolved significantly since the introduction of the General Medical Services Contract. My Department is committed to working with GP representatives to develop a longer-term contract model that supports the sustainability of General Practice into the future.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the pivotal role that General Practice plays within our health and social care system. I am also very aware of the challenges facing General Practice and the impact of increasing demand and workload pressures.
While my Department has not undertaken an assessment specifically comparing GP workload at the time the GMS Contract Regulations (NI) 2004 came into effect with current workload levels, it routinely monitors pressures, activity and demand across General Practice through engagement with the profession and wider Health and Social Care partners.
I can assure you that my Department is continuing to take measures to secure improved sustainability of General Practice and support the delivery of these vitally important services. This includes a focus on increasing the capacity of Primary Care through reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in Primary Care, investment in General Practice, and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working.
The investment of £61m into the Primary Care MDT programme over a 5-year period will expand the range of services available in Primary Care and help address the high levels of demand being dealt with by our GP practices.
My Department has issued a best practice guide to GP practices to support General Practice in improving service delivery. ‘Making All Contacts Count’ promotes the use of activity data, demand and capacity planning, multidisciplinary working and quality improvement approaches to support Practices in managing workload and improving access for patients. Additionally, as part of the Managing Winter Pressures Northern Ireland Enhanced Service, participating Practices are required to review activity and workload data and identify opportunities to improve workload management. This aims to support planning for future primary care resources and services.
My Department continues to work with Health and Social Care organisations and General Practice representatives to support appropriate pathways of care and the delivery of services in the most appropriate clinical setting. A range of initiatives are in place to provide care closer to home and reduce avoidable demand on hospital services.
My Department will also continue to work with GPs as part of our ambition for General Practice to be at the heart of the neighbourhood model of care. A key part of the neighbourhood model will involve mobilising HSC funding to support the realignment of resources to deliver more care in the community. To support this, the system will work to move 2% each year from hospital based spend to community spend, delivered through the new neighbourhood model and the new Integrated Neighbourhood Teams. Policy guidance has been drafted to support HSC Trusts in planning for this realignment over the three year period commencing in 2026/27.
It is recognised that General Practice has evolved significantly since the introduction of the General Medical Services Contract. My Department is committed to working with GP representatives to develop a longer-term contract model that supports the sustainability of General Practice into the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494057"}},{"id":"494056","reference":"AQW 50439/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-03","answerBy":"2026-07-22","answered":"2026-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any organisations currently receiving departmental funding to provide advice and assistance with the completion of welfare benefit application forms, including Personal Independence Payment applications; and (ii) whether he intends to increase funding for these services, given the high demand for assistance, and reports from constituency offices that many providers are operating at full capacity.","answerText":"The Department provides approximately £7.7 million annually to the independent advice and debt sector to deliver free and impartial advice on a range of issues, including welfare benefits.\n\nFunding is allocated and administered through local councils and delivered by a network of community-based organisations. Additional funding is also provided through Welfare Mitigation measures to support welfare advice services, including the Welfare Helpline delivered by Advice NI and specialist legal advice services provided by Law Centre NI.\n\nThe Department also delivers the Make the Call Wraparound Service, which aims to ensure that individuals and their families receive all the benefits, support, and services to which they are entitled.\n\nI recognise the high level of demand being experienced by advice providers. However, the Department continues to operate within a constrained financial environment, and, at this stage, I am not in a position to indicate whether additional funding for these services will be available in 2026/27.","answerHtml":"The Department provides approximately £7.7 million annually to the independent advice and debt sector to deliver free and impartial advice on a range of issues, including welfare benefits.
Funding is allocated and administered through local councils and delivered by a network of community-based organisations. Additional funding is also provided through Welfare Mitigation measures to support welfare advice services, including the Welfare Helpline delivered by Advice NI and specialist legal advice services provided by Law Centre NI.
The Department also delivers the Make the Call Wraparound Service, which aims to ensure that individuals and their families receive all the benefits, support, and services to which they are entitled.
I recognise the high level of demand being experienced by advice providers. However, the Department continues to operate within a constrained financial environment, and, at this stage, I am not in a position to indicate whether additional funding for these services will be available in 2026/27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050439%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=494056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=494056"}},{"id":"493696","reference":"AQW 50161/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his officials have engaged with the Scottish Government in relation to the operation of Scotland's Distress Brief Intervention programme.","answerText":"Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under Actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department’s Review of Deliverability of the Mental Health Strategy, published in October 2025, reaffirmed the need for the full Strategy but identified a narrower focus on key priorities due to ongoing financial constraints. For 2026/27, these priorities are a regionally consistent Mental Health Crisis Service and the Mental Health Workforce.\n\nWork is currently underway to develop a business case for a Community Crisis Service aimed at providing timely, short-term support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for secondary care mental health services. The proposed model has been informed by a regional scoping exercise and is being developed in line with national and international evidence-based best practice.\n\nThe Community Crisis service is intended to strengthen early intervention and prevention, reduce the risk of escalation to more acute services, and support individuals to remain safely within their communities while accessing appropriate care and support.\n\nThe Mental Health Champion’s report, The Economic Case for a Mental Health Regional Crisis Intervention Service in Northern Ireland (published 24th June 2026), will be given careful consideration as part of the ongoing development of the Community Crisis Service business case.\n\nAction 17 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to fully integrating the community and voluntary sector across mental health service provision. It envisions the sector as a true partner in planning, developing, and delivering services to improve outcomes.\n\nIn January 2026 the Department published an independent review of the sector’s scope, scale, and capacity, to identify how best the C&V sector can be fully integrated in the development and delivery of mental health services. The review report sets out how best to support this integration.\n\nA Task and Finish Group has now been established, bringing together statutory and community and voluntary partners to progress the better integration of the sector in mental health service delivery, and to seek out innovation and best practice.\n\nI can confirm My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency met in May 2025 with NHS Scotland colleagues in relation to Scotland's Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) programme. There has been subsequent communication regarding the programme, enabling officials to further consider the learning from its development and implementation and its potential relevance to the development of the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for Northern Ireland.\n\nIn order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service including the Community Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure a more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.\n\nIn line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and will take place within the context of future budget availability.","answerHtml":"Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under Actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.
The Department’s Review of Deliverability of the Mental Health Strategy, published in October 2025, reaffirmed the need for the full Strategy but identified a narrower focus on key priorities due to ongoing financial constraints. For 2026/27, these priorities are a regionally consistent Mental Health Crisis Service and the Mental Health Workforce.
Work is currently underway to develop a business case for a Community Crisis Service aimed at providing timely, short-term support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for secondary care mental health services. The proposed model has been informed by a regional scoping exercise and is being developed in line with national and international evidence-based best practice.
The Community Crisis service is intended to strengthen early intervention and prevention, reduce the risk of escalation to more acute services, and support individuals to remain safely within their communities while accessing appropriate care and support.
The Mental Health Champion’s report, The Economic Case for a Mental Health Regional Crisis Intervention Service in Northern Ireland (published 24th June 2026), will be given careful consideration as part of the ongoing development of the Community Crisis Service business case.
Action 17 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to fully integrating the community and voluntary sector across mental health service provision. It envisions the sector as a true partner in planning, developing, and delivering services to improve outcomes.
In January 2026 the Department published an independent review of the sector’s scope, scale, and capacity, to identify how best the C&V sector can be fully integrated in the development and delivery of mental health services. The review report sets out how best to support this integration.
A Task and Finish Group has now been established, bringing together statutory and community and voluntary partners to progress the better integration of the sector in mental health service delivery, and to seek out innovation and best practice.
I can confirm My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency met in May 2025 with NHS Scotland colleagues in relation to Scotland's Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) programme. There has been subsequent communication regarding the programme, enabling officials to further consider the learning from its development and implementation and its potential relevance to the development of the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for Northern Ireland.
In order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service including the Community Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure a more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.
In line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and will take place within the context of future budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050161%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493696"}},{"id":"493695","reference":"AQW 50160/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has undertaken any assessment of the cost of mental health crisis presentations to Emergency Departments.","answerText":"Information on Emergency Department (ED) attendances involving individuals presenting in mental health crisis is not routinely recorded in a manner that allows the associated costs to be separately identified.\n\nWhile overall ED activity and expenditure are collected, specific cost information for this patient cohort is not available. Consequently, my Department cannot provide a separate assessment of the costs associated with mental health presentations to ED. The Northern Ireland average unit cost of a main ED attendance, along with the total cost of main EDs (excluding standalone Minor Injury Units) for the last five years is set out in the table below:\n\n2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\nNI average unit cost of a Main ED attendance\t£247\t£254\t£299\t£389\t£411\nTotal cost of Main ED’s\t£189.9m\t£195.8m\t£216.2m\t£298.6m\t£316.9m\n\nThese figures represent fully absorbed average costs, including direct, indirect, overhead and capital costs, based on Trust cost submissions. Caution should be exercised in making year-on-year or cross-jurisdictional comparisons due to changes in costing methodologies, data completeness, and system implementation impacts over the period.","answerHtml":"Information on Emergency Department (ED) attendances involving individuals presenting in mental health crisis is not routinely recorded in a manner that allows the associated costs to be separately identified.
While overall ED activity and expenditure are collected, specific cost information for this patient cohort is not available. Consequently, my Department cannot provide a separate assessment of the costs associated with mental health presentations to ED. The Northern Ireland average unit cost of a main ED attendance, along with the total cost of main EDs (excluding standalone Minor Injury Units) for the last five years is set out in the table below:
| 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 | |
| NI average unit cost of a Main ED attendance | £247 | £254 | £299 | £389 | £411 |
| Total cost of Main ED’s | £189.9m | £195.8m | £216.2m | £298.6m | £316.9m |
These figures represent fully absorbed average costs, including direct, indirect, overhead and capital costs, based on Trust cost submissions. Caution should be exercised in making year-on-year or cross-jurisdictional comparisons due to changes in costing methodologies, data completeness, and system implementation impacts over the period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050160%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493695"}},{"id":"493694","reference":"AQW 50159/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any alternatives to Emergency Department attendance available for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis; and (ii) any steps being taken to improve access to those services.","answerText":"Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under Actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.\n\nThe components of the proposed regional mental health crisis service are: accessing mental health crisis services, primary care and interagency partnership, community crisis service, mental health liaison service and crisis resolution home treatment.\n\nFuture State work has commenced across lifespan services. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has been testing a ‘Hear and Treat’ mental health service as part of its 999 response. The service is currently operational during peak times, with mental health professionals available in ambulance control from 6pm to 2am on Friday to Sunday evenings. This crisis de-escalation service provides a more appropriate alternative to transporting adults aged 18 and over who are experiencing an acute mental health crisis to busy Emergency Departments, offering timely support in a more suitable environment.\n\nA pilot has also commenced with Home Treatment in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust to triage and take direct referrals from NIAS as an appropriate alternative to unnecessary Emergency Department attendance for those with mental health needs and not requiring clinical care. Southern Health and Social Care Trust aim to commence a similar pilot triage with NIAS in August 2026.\n\nIn the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust the Mater Hospital site has opened the (Patient Assessment and Treatment Hub) PATH for individuals in mental health crisis to be supported in an appropriate environment away from ED.\n\nA Mental Health Liaison and Crisis Response Home Treatment Care Network has also been established, bringing together all key stakeholders throughout the region. The aim of this Care Network is to ensure consistent evidence-based practice, equitable access to care and to improve service user outcomes.\n\nWork is currently underway to develop a Business Case for a Community Crisis Service aimed at providing timely, short-term support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for Secondary Care mental health services. The proposed model has been informed by a regional mapping exercise and is being developed in line with national and international evidence-based best practice.\n\nThe Community Crisis service is intended to strengthen early intervention and prevention, reduce the risk of escalation to more acute services, and support individuals to remain safely within their communities while accessing appropriate care and support.\n\nIn order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.\n\nIn line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and will take place within the context of future budget availability.","answerHtml":"Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under Actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.
The components of the proposed regional mental health crisis service are: accessing mental health crisis services, primary care and interagency partnership, community crisis service, mental health liaison service and crisis resolution home treatment.
Future State work has commenced across lifespan services. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has been testing a ‘Hear and Treat’ mental health service as part of its 999 response. The service is currently operational during peak times, with mental health professionals available in ambulance control from 6pm to 2am on Friday to Sunday evenings. This crisis de-escalation service provides a more appropriate alternative to transporting adults aged 18 and over who are experiencing an acute mental health crisis to busy Emergency Departments, offering timely support in a more suitable environment.
A pilot has also commenced with Home Treatment in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust to triage and take direct referrals from NIAS as an appropriate alternative to unnecessary Emergency Department attendance for those with mental health needs and not requiring clinical care. Southern Health and Social Care Trust aim to commence a similar pilot triage with NIAS in August 2026.
In the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust the Mater Hospital site has opened the (Patient Assessment and Treatment Hub) PATH for individuals in mental health crisis to be supported in an appropriate environment away from ED.
A Mental Health Liaison and Crisis Response Home Treatment Care Network has also been established, bringing together all key stakeholders throughout the region. The aim of this Care Network is to ensure consistent evidence-based practice, equitable access to care and to improve service user outcomes.
Work is currently underway to develop a Business Case for a Community Crisis Service aimed at providing timely, short-term support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for Secondary Care mental health services. The proposed model has been informed by a regional mapping exercise and is being developed in line with national and international evidence-based best practice.
The Community Crisis service is intended to strengthen early intervention and prevention, reduce the risk of escalation to more acute services, and support individuals to remain safely within their communities while accessing appropriate care and support.
In order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.
In line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and will take place within the context of future budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050159%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493694"}},{"id":"493693","reference":"AQW 50158/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-07-01","answerBy":"2026-07-20","answered":"2026-09-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the community-based mental health crisis intervention services that are currently commissioned by his Department in each Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of geographical gaps in provision.","answerText":"i) Mental health services in Northern Ireland are delivered in line with the Stepped Care Model outlined within the You in Mind Care Pathway.\n\nIt is important to note that the term ‘mental health crisis’ can encompass a broad range of circumstances, including acute deterioration in mental wellbeing, significant psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or other situations where an individual requires an urgent response. Not all crises are attributable to mental illness, and support may therefore be provided through a range of statutory, community and voluntary sector services depending on individual need.\n\nCommunity-based mental health crisis intervention and support services currently commissioned across Northern Ireland include:\n\nLifeline, Northern Ireland's regional crisis response helpline, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for individuals experiencing distress, despair or suicidal crisis. Where appropriate, Lifeline also provides short-term counselling support.\n\nMental Health Practitioners (MHPs) in General Practice, commissioned as part of the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Programme. These practitioners provide assessment, intervention and support for individuals presenting with a range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, low mood and psychological distress. MHPs are currently available in 12 of the 17 GP Federation areas. Rollout to South Belfast, East Belfast, Mid-Ulster, Antrim and Ballymena, and Lisburn Federations remains subject to available resources.\n\nPHA commissions a range of community-based Step 2 talking therapy and counselling services including:\n\nThe Self-Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP), which is available to people aged 11 years and older across all five Health and Social Care Trust areas. Referrals can be made following crisis presentations where a mental health practitioner considers an individual's needs and level of risk appropriate for the service. SHIP provides evidence-based psychological interventions aimed at reducing the likelihood of repeated self-harm and suicide.\n\nCounselling services for people experiencing distress in the Belfast and South Eastern HSCT areas as listed at Annex 1.\n\nIn addition to the above, Health and Social Care Trusts provide a range of community mental health services operating at Steps 1 and 2 of the care pathway, including primary care, psychological support and community mental health interventions. Further support is also delivered through community and voluntary sector organisations funded through a variety of commissioning and grant arrangements.\n\n(ii) Actions 12 and 27 within the Mental Health Strategy relate to the development of mental health crisis services. Prior to commencing future-state work on regional mental health crisis provision, Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency undertook a regional mapping exercise of statutory and community-based mental health crisis services. This work identified variation in the availability and distribution of community mental health and emotional wellbeing services across Northern Ireland, including differences in provision at Steps 1 and 2 of the care pathway. It also highlighted areas of underinvestment and inconsistency in service availability across the region.\n\nThe mapping exercise has informed ongoing work to develop a regional business case for a Community Crisis Service. The proposed model aims to provide timely, short-term support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for secondary care mental health services. The model is being developed in line with evidence-based best practice and seeks to address regional variation and improve equity of access.\n\nAny future commissioning decisions will be informed by assessed need, the findings of the regional mapping exercise and the availability of funding.\n\nAnnex 1:\n\nThe Public Health Agency fund a number of Step 2 talking therapies for individuals in crisis or distress in Belfast and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust areas as in the Table below. This pattern of provision reflects historical funding and commissioning arrangements.\n\nLighthouse\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for those experiencing distress or who have been bereaved by suicide.\nExtern\tExtern provide a listening ear and family support for individuals in crisis or bereaved through suicide.\nWindsor Women’s Centre\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress\nHoly Trinity Centre\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress\nLenadoon Community Forum\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for young people or adults experiencing distress\nFalls Women’s Centre\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress\nAshton Community Trust\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress\nAlbert Street Community Centre\tA tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress","answerHtml":"i) Mental health services in Northern Ireland are delivered in line with the Stepped Care Model outlined within the You in Mind Care Pathway.
It is important to note that the term ‘mental health crisis’ can encompass a broad range of circumstances, including acute deterioration in mental wellbeing, significant psychological distress, suicidal thoughts, self-harm, or other situations where an individual requires an urgent response. Not all crises are attributable to mental illness, and support may therefore be provided through a range of statutory, community and voluntary sector services depending on individual need.
Community-based mental health crisis intervention and support services currently commissioned across Northern Ireland include:
Lifeline, Northern Ireland's regional crisis response helpline, which is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for individuals experiencing distress, despair or suicidal crisis. Where appropriate, Lifeline also provides short-term counselling support.
Mental Health Practitioners (MHPs) in General Practice, commissioned as part of the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) Programme. These practitioners provide assessment, intervention and support for individuals presenting with a range of mental health difficulties, including anxiety, low mood and psychological distress. MHPs are currently available in 12 of the 17 GP Federation areas. Rollout to South Belfast, East Belfast, Mid-Ulster, Antrim and Ballymena, and Lisburn Federations remains subject to available resources.
PHA commissions a range of community-based Step 2 talking therapy and counselling services including:
The Self-Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP), which is available to people aged 11 years and older across all five Health and Social Care Trust areas. Referrals can be made following crisis presentations where a mental health practitioner considers an individual's needs and level of risk appropriate for the service. SHIP provides evidence-based psychological interventions aimed at reducing the likelihood of repeated self-harm and suicide.
Counselling services for people experiencing distress in the Belfast and South Eastern HSCT areas as listed at Annex 1.
In addition to the above, Health and Social Care Trusts provide a range of community mental health services operating at Steps 1 and 2 of the care pathway, including primary care, psychological support and community mental health interventions. Further support is also delivered through community and voluntary sector organisations funded through a variety of commissioning and grant arrangements.
(ii) Actions 12 and 27 within the Mental Health Strategy relate to the development of mental health crisis services. Prior to commencing future-state work on regional mental health crisis provision, Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency undertook a regional mapping exercise of statutory and community-based mental health crisis services. This work identified variation in the availability and distribution of community mental health and emotional wellbeing services across Northern Ireland, including differences in provision at Steps 1 and 2 of the care pathway. It also highlighted areas of underinvestment and inconsistency in service availability across the region.
The mapping exercise has informed ongoing work to develop a regional business case for a Community Crisis Service. The proposed model aims to provide timely, short-term support for individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for secondary care mental health services. The model is being developed in line with evidence-based best practice and seeks to address regional variation and improve equity of access.
Any future commissioning decisions will be informed by assessed need, the findings of the regional mapping exercise and the availability of funding.
Annex 1:
The Public Health Agency fund a number of Step 2 talking therapies for individuals in crisis or distress in Belfast and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust areas as in the Table below. This pattern of provision reflects historical funding and commissioning arrangements.
| Lighthouse | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for those experiencing distress or who have been bereaved by suicide. |
| Extern | Extern provide a listening ear and family support for individuals in crisis or bereaved through suicide. |
| Windsor Women’s Centre | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress |
| Holy Trinity Centre | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress |
| Lenadoon Community Forum | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for young people or adults experiencing distress |
| Falls Women’s Centre | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress |
| Ashton Community Trust | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress |
| Albert Street Community Centre | A tier 2 community-based counselling service for adults experiencing distress |
Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under Actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.
The Department’s Review of Deliverability of the Mental Health Strategy, published in October 2025, reaffirmed the need for the full Strategy but identified a narrower focus on key priorities due to ongoing financial constraints. For 2026/27, these priorities are a regionally consistent Mental Health Crisis Service and the Mental Health Workforce.
Work is currently underway to develop a business case for a Community Crisis Service aimed at providing timely, short-term support to individuals experiencing a mental health crisis who do not meet the threshold for secondary care mental health services. The proposed model has been informed by a regional scoping exercise and is being developed in line with national and international evidence-based best practice.
The Community Crisis service is intended to strengthen early intervention and prevention, reduce the risk of escalation to more acute services, and support individuals to remain safely within their communities while accessing appropriate care and support.
The Mental Health Champion’s report, The Economic Case for a Mental Health Regional Crisis Intervention Service in Northern Ireland (published 24th June 2026), will be given careful consideration as part of the ongoing development of the Community Crisis Service business case.
Action 17 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to fully integrating the community and voluntary sector across mental health service provision. It envisions the sector as a true partner in planning, developing, and delivering services to improve outcomes.
In January 2026 the Department published an independent review of the sector’s scope, scale, and capacity, to identify how best the C&V sector can be fully integrated in the development and delivery of mental health services. The review report sets out how best to support this integration.
A Task and Finish Group has now been established, bringing together statutory and community and voluntary partners to progress the better integration of the sector in mental health service delivery, and to seek out innovation and best practice.
I can confirm My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency met in May 2025 with NHS Scotland colleagues in relation to Scotland's Distress Brief Intervention (DBI) programme. There has been subsequent communication regarding the programme, enabling officials to further consider the learning from its development and implementation and its potential relevance to the development of the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for Northern Ireland.
In order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service including the Community Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure a more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.
In line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and will take place within the context of future budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050157%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493692","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493692"}},{"id":"493520","reference":"AQW 50002/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":"2026-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in light of the managed closure of Fertility Network UK and the uncertainty surrounding the future of the Fertility Network NI, to detail (i) any engagement his Department has had in relation to the continuation of fertility support services, including whether alternative funding or delivery arrangements have been identified; (ii) any assessment that has been made of the impact that the loss of these services would have on individuals and couples experiencing infertility; and (iii) any role his Department has in ensuring that appropriate emotional, practical and peer support services are available for fertility patients.","answerText":"I acknowledge concerns that uncertainty around fertility services may increase anxiety for patients. Ensuring people continue to receive safe, effective and compassionate care, including access to appropriate support services, remains a priority.\n\nThe Fertility Network UK informed the Belfast Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust of its decision to close on 18 May 2026 and ceased offering its services on 26 June 2026, due to governance concerns.\n\nThe Belfast HSC Trust’s Regional Fertility Centre (RFC) management, and the Contracts Team met the Fertility Network on 1 June 2026 and subsequently met with Department officials on 5 June 2026.\n\nThe Belfast HSC Trust are continuing to work with my officials to consider future service requirements. Prior to its closure, the Fertility Network UK signposted beneficiaries to alternative sources of support, including fertility counselling at Family Routes in Belfast, and two GB charities: Fertility Action and The Fertility Alliance.\n\nThe Belfast HSC Trust, as the regional fertility service provider, also provides a robust counselling service for fertility patients, which is a requirement of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). This is provided via Family Routes in Belfast.\n\nHFEA requires all licensed UK fertility clinics to offer independent, implications-focused counselling to every patient and donor. This mandatory condition ensures individuals fully understand the emotional, legal, and psychological implications of fertility treatment before beginning and this is provided via the Belfast HSC Trust’s regional service.\n\nBelfast HSC Trust have advised my officials that they will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to ensure individuals are signposted to appropriate sources of support, while they consider future service requirements and a potential delivery model.\n\nHowever, any future provision would be subject to funding availability and will require appropriate governance requirements, including consideration of safety, quality, financial probity and value for money.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge concerns that uncertainty around fertility services may increase anxiety for patients. Ensuring people continue to receive safe, effective and compassionate care, including access to appropriate support services, remains a priority.
The Fertility Network UK informed the Belfast Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust of its decision to close on 18 May 2026 and ceased offering its services on 26 June 2026, due to governance concerns.
The Belfast HSC Trust’s Regional Fertility Centre (RFC) management, and the Contracts Team met the Fertility Network on 1 June 2026 and subsequently met with Department officials on 5 June 2026.
The Belfast HSC Trust are continuing to work with my officials to consider future service requirements. Prior to its closure, the Fertility Network UK signposted beneficiaries to alternative sources of support, including fertility counselling at Family Routes in Belfast, and two GB charities: Fertility Action and The Fertility Alliance.
The Belfast HSC Trust, as the regional fertility service provider, also provides a robust counselling service for fertility patients, which is a requirement of the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA). This is provided via Family Routes in Belfast.
HFEA requires all licensed UK fertility clinics to offer independent, implications-focused counselling to every patient and donor. This mandatory condition ensures individuals fully understand the emotional, legal, and psychological implications of fertility treatment before beginning and this is provided via the Belfast HSC Trust’s regional service.
Belfast HSC Trust have advised my officials that they will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to ensure individuals are signposted to appropriate sources of support, while they consider future service requirements and a potential delivery model.
However, any future provision would be subject to funding availability and will require appropriate governance requirements, including consideration of safety, quality, financial probity and value for money.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050002%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493520"}},{"id":"493519","reference":"AQW 50001/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of differences in pay and terms and conditions between pharmacists employed by GP Federations and those employed directly by Health and Social Care while undertaking comparable clinical roles; and (ii) whether there is any policy that pharmacists carrying out equivalent roles should receive equivalent pay and terms and conditions.","answerText":"My Department has not undertaken any assessment of the impact of differences in pay and terms and conditions between pharmacists employed by GP Federations and those employed directly by Health and Social Care (HSC). The level of pay, and the terms and conditions of a pharmacist is determined by their employment status. General Practice Pharmacists (GPPs) are employed by GP Federations, and it is the responsibility of GP Federations to determine the pay and terms and conditions of GPPs.\n\nPay uplifts to GP Federations for GPPs, made by my Department, are made on the basis of the Doctors Dentists Pay Review Board (DDRB). My Department has, however, worked with Federations in order to identify whether acceleration of prescribing savings, through adherence to best practice and cost-effective prescribing guidance could be linked to additional investment into the GPP service, thereby enabling the possible alignment of pay and terms and conditions.","answerHtml":"My Department has not undertaken any assessment of the impact of differences in pay and terms and conditions between pharmacists employed by GP Federations and those employed directly by Health and Social Care (HSC). The level of pay, and the terms and conditions of a pharmacist is determined by their employment status. General Practice Pharmacists (GPPs) are employed by GP Federations, and it is the responsibility of GP Federations to determine the pay and terms and conditions of GPPs.
Pay uplifts to GP Federations for GPPs, made by my Department, are made on the basis of the Doctors Dentists Pay Review Board (DDRB). My Department has, however, worked with Federations in order to identify whether acceleration of prescribing savings, through adherence to best practice and cost-effective prescribing guidance could be linked to additional investment into the GPP service, thereby enabling the possible alignment of pay and terms and conditions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050001%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493519"}},{"id":"493518","reference":"AQW 50000/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-08-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of pharmacists employed by GP Federations who are not employed on terms and conditions equivalent to Agenda for Change; and (ii) any engagement his Department and the Strategic Planning and Performance Group has had with GP Federations and the Pharmacists' Defence Association in relation to the alignment of pay and terms and conditions.","answerText":"There are 303 WTE General Practice Pharmacists (GPP) funded by my Department. These GPPs are not employed on terms and conditions equivalent to Agenda for Change.\n\nMy Department has not engaged with GP Federations and the Pharmacists’ Defence Association in relation to the alignment of pay and terms and conditions.\n\nMy Department only has a negotiating mandate to agree terms and conditions, including pay, for all staff employed by an HSC Body, and as contained in Annex 1 of NHS Handbook. Therefore, it does not set the terms and conditions, nor the pay, of individuals employed outside of the defined bodies.\n\nAn individual employed by non-HSC bodies such as a GP Federation should approach their own employer for clarity on this matter.","answerHtml":"There are 303 WTE General Practice Pharmacists (GPP) funded by my Department. These GPPs are not employed on terms and conditions equivalent to Agenda for Change.
My Department has not engaged with GP Federations and the Pharmacists’ Defence Association in relation to the alignment of pay and terms and conditions.
My Department only has a negotiating mandate to agree terms and conditions, including pay, for all staff employed by an HSC Body, and as contained in Annex 1 of NHS Handbook. Therefore, it does not set the terms and conditions, nor the pay, of individuals employed outside of the defined bodies.
An individual employed by non-HSC bodies such as a GP Federation should approach their own employer for clarity on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050000%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493518"}},{"id":"493517","reference":"AQW 49999/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":"2026-07-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the Strategic Planning and Performance Group has received a request for funding to align the pay and terms and conditions of pharmacists employed by GP Federations with those employed directly by Health and Social Care.","answerText":"My Department has received correspondence from the GP Federations in relation to moving the General Practice Pharmacists (GPPs) onto Agenda for Change (AfC) pay and terms and conditions.\n\nTo secure the required funding, a business case needs to be developed and officials in my Department have worked with Federations in order to identify whether acceleration of prescribing savings through adherence to best practice and cost-effective prescribing guidance could be linked to additional investment into the GPP service. This requires the support of Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee (NIGPC) and GP Federations.","answerHtml":"My Department has received correspondence from the GP Federations in relation to moving the General Practice Pharmacists (GPPs) onto Agenda for Change (AfC) pay and terms and conditions.
To secure the required funding, a business case needs to be developed and officials in my Department have worked with Federations in order to identify whether acceleration of prescribing savings through adherence to best practice and cost-effective prescribing guidance could be linked to additional investment into the GPP service. This requires the support of Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee (NIGPC) and GP Federations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049999%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493517"}},{"id":"493516","reference":"AQW 49998/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-30","answerBy":"2026-07-17","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department or the Strategic Planning and Performance Group has identified any barriers to aligning the pay and terms and conditions of pharmacists employed by GP Federations with those employed directly by Health and Social Care.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049998%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493516"}},{"id":"493229","reference":"AQW 49848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) whether he intends to review the funding model for special school summer schemes to ensure sufficient staffing levels and places can be secured in future years; and (ii) any steps being taken to ensure that all children who meet the eligibility criteria for a special school summer scheme are able to access a place.","answerText":"My department and the Education Authority plan to work jointly to develop a sustainable model for summer provision from 2027 onwards.","answerHtml":"My department and the Education Authority plan to work jointly to develop a sustainable model for summer provision from 2027 onwards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493229","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493229"}},{"id":"493228","reference":"AQW 49847/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether any assessment has been made of (i) the impact on families where children with special educational needs are unable to access a special school summer scheme place; and (ii) the availability of alternative childcare, respite and holiday provision for children who are unable to access a summer scheme place.","answerText":"My department is not aware of any assessment of the impact on families of children with special educational needs unable to access a special school summer scheme place, nor is it aware of any assessment of the availability of alternative childcare, respite and holiday provision for children who are unable to access a summer scheme place.","answerHtml":"My department is not aware of any assessment of the impact on families of children with special educational needs unable to access a special school summer scheme place, nor is it aware of any assessment of the availability of alternative childcare, respite and holiday provision for children who are unable to access a summer scheme place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049847%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493228"}},{"id":"493227","reference":"AQW 49846/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) whether any assessment has been made of the ability of special schools to recruit sufficient staff to operate summer schemes; (ii) the number of special schools who have advised (a) his Department; or (ii) the Education Authority, that they were unable to offer their desired number of summer scheme places due to staffing constraints; and (iii) any support available to assist special schools in recruiting staff for summer schemes.","answerText":"(i) The EA has advised that it has provided support to special schools in recruiting staff for summer schemes through a number of measures. Staffing audits were undertaken with schools to identify any vacancies or shortfalls in provision. Where shortages were identified, details were shared with human resources, to enable deployment of available classroom assistants across those schools that required them. In addition, training was provided to staff participating in summer schemes to ensure they were appropriately prepared for their roles.\n\n(ii) Summer schemes in special schools are an operational matter for the EA and it has advised that all schools maintained their 2025 allocation of places. In one instance, a staffing shortfall was identified; this was resolved through the redeployment of 52week classroom assistants from neighbouring schools to ensure continuity of provision.\n\n(iii) The EA has advised that it has worked to ensure there are EA staff available across the summer to help address any unforeseen absences that might arise during any of the summer schemes. This will aid to minimise disruption to programme delivery.","answerHtml":"(i) The EA has advised that it has provided support to special schools in recruiting staff for summer schemes through a number of measures. Staffing audits were undertaken with schools to identify any vacancies or shortfalls in provision. Where shortages were identified, details were shared with human resources, to enable deployment of available classroom assistants across those schools that required them. In addition, training was provided to staff participating in summer schemes to ensure they were appropriately prepared for their roles.
(ii) Summer schemes in special schools are an operational matter for the EA and it has advised that all schools maintained their 2025 allocation of places. In one instance, a staffing shortfall was identified; this was resolved through the redeployment of 52week classroom assistants from neighbouring schools to ensure continuity of provision.
(iii) The EA has advised that it has worked to ensure there are EA staff available across the summer to help address any unforeseen absences that might arise during any of the summer schemes. This will aid to minimise disruption to programme delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049846%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493227"}},{"id":"493226","reference":"AQW 49845/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) places available through special school summer schemes, in each of the last five years; and (ii) special schools that reduced the number of places offered in 2026 compared with 2025.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has provided the following information;\n\ni)\n\nYear\t2021\t2022\t2023\t2024\t2025\nNumber of Pupils\t1597\t1082\t1147\t1453\t1849\n\nii) EA does not have information in relation to 2026, as all the schemes have not yet started or finished. This information can be provided at the end of the summer following school evaluation returns.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has provided the following information;
i)
| Year | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
| Number of Pupils | 1597 | 1082 | 1147 | 1453 | 1849 |
ii) EA does not have information in relation to 2026, as all the schemes have not yet started or finished. This information can be provided at the end of the summer following school evaluation returns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049845%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493226"}},{"id":"493225","reference":"AQW 49844/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-29","answerBy":"2026-07-16","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children who (i) applied for a place in a special school summer scheme in 2026; (ii) were offered a place; and (iii) were unsuccessful in securing a place, broken down by special school.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that it does not hold this information, as the requested information is held by each school where a scheme is running. All schools are expected to provide an evaluation to the EA by the end of August, and further information can be made available at that stage.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that it does not hold this information, as the requested information is held by each school where a scheme is running. All schools are expected to provide an evaluation to the EA by the end of August, and further information can be made available at that stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049844%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=493225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=493225"}},{"id":"492941","reference":"AQW 49728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of full-time undergraduate students enrolled at the Northern Regional College Coleraine campus, in each academic year, since 2005; and (ii) any assessment her Department has made of the impact of changes in student numbers on the local economy and wider North West region.","answerText":"The numbers of full-time undergraduate students enrolled at Northern Regional College’s (NRC’s) Coleraine Campus between 2013/14 and 2024/25 (the last academic year for which published data is available) are set out in the table below. There has been a 43% increase in these numbers since 2013/14.\n\nArchived data held by my Department indicates that there were no students enrolled on Higher Education (HE) courses at NRC Coleraine between 2004/05 and 2012/13. NRC advised that in the absence of evidence for the period in question, they are unable to confirm provision of HE full-time curriculum at this Campus.\n\nNumber of full-time undergraduate students enrolled at the NRC Coleraine campus (2013/14 to 2024/25)\n\nAcademic Year\tStudents\n2013/14\t35\n2014/15\t35\n2015/16\t50\n2016/17\t65\n2017/18\t30\n2018/19\t40\n2019/20\t20\n2020/21\t30\n2021/22\t25\n2022/23\t40\n2023/24\t30\n2024/25\t50\n\nFull-time HE provision in NRC is complemented by Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) provision, but this is categorised as part-time and is therefore excluded from the figures above.\n\nThere has been an expansion of HE provision at NRC’s Coleraine campus post-COVID, aligned to curriculum strategy, and this contributes to retention of talent in the area, widens access to and participation in HE and provides a pathway into local employment, supporting regional economic priorities.","answerHtml":"The numbers of full-time undergraduate students enrolled at Northern Regional College’s (NRC’s) Coleraine Campus between 2013/14 and 2024/25 (the last academic year for which published data is available) are set out in the table below. There has been a 43% increase in these numbers since 2013/14.
Archived data held by my Department indicates that there were no students enrolled on Higher Education (HE) courses at NRC Coleraine between 2004/05 and 2012/13. NRC advised that in the absence of evidence for the period in question, they are unable to confirm provision of HE full-time curriculum at this Campus.
Number of full-time undergraduate students enrolled at the NRC Coleraine campus (2013/14 to 2024/25)
| Academic Year | Students |
| 2013/14 | 35 |
| 2014/15 | 35 |
| 2015/16 | 50 |
| 2016/17 | 65 |
| 2017/18 | 30 |
| 2018/19 | 40 |
| 2019/20 | 20 |
| 2020/21 | 30 |
| 2021/22 | 25 |
| 2022/23 | 40 |
| 2023/24 | 30 |
| 2024/25 | 50 |
Full-time HE provision in NRC is complemented by Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) provision, but this is categorised as part-time and is therefore excluded from the figures above.
There has been an expansion of HE provision at NRC’s Coleraine campus post-COVID, aligned to curriculum strategy, and this contributes to retention of talent in the area, widens access to and participation in HE and provides a pathway into local employment, supporting regional economic priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492941"}},{"id":"492940","reference":"AQW 49727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has made any assessment of (i) the role for the Northern Regional College Coleraine campus within Northern Ireland’s higher education system, over the next ten years; and (ii) whether current student number allocations support that role.","answerText":"Along with the other Further Education (FE) colleges, Northern Regional College (NRC), including its Coleraine campus, plays an important and complementary role within the North’s Higher Education (HE) system. The sector will continue to focus on providing flexible, locally accessible HE pathways, particularly for learners who may not access traditional university routes; supporting widening participation, by enabling learners to access higher education closer to home, helping to reduce barriers associated with travel, cost and caring responsibilities; and responding to regional skills needs, including through collaboration with HE institutions and industry.\n\nThe new FE Fit for the Future programme aims to ensure colleges are properly equipped to deliver for learners and for employers over the next decade and beyond. It will review provision at all levels in FE colleges, including HE provision, to ensure alignment with regional and sub-regional skills needs, learner demand and economic priorities.\n\nThe Department keeps the allocation of Maximum Student Numbers (MaSN) for HE within FE colleges under continual review. Allocations are informed by a range of factors, including historic recruitment performance, forecast demand from colleges, available budget and value for money.","answerHtml":"Along with the other Further Education (FE) colleges, Northern Regional College (NRC), including its Coleraine campus, plays an important and complementary role within the North’s Higher Education (HE) system. The sector will continue to focus on providing flexible, locally accessible HE pathways, particularly for learners who may not access traditional university routes; supporting widening participation, by enabling learners to access higher education closer to home, helping to reduce barriers associated with travel, cost and caring responsibilities; and responding to regional skills needs, including through collaboration with HE institutions and industry.
The new FE Fit for the Future programme aims to ensure colleges are properly equipped to deliver for learners and for employers over the next decade and beyond. It will review provision at all levels in FE colleges, including HE provision, to ensure alignment with regional and sub-regional skills needs, learner demand and economic priorities.
The Department keeps the allocation of Maximum Student Numbers (MaSN) for HE within FE colleges under continual review. Allocations are informed by a range of factors, including historic recruitment performance, forecast demand from colleges, available budget and value for money.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492940"}},{"id":"492939","reference":"AQW 49726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has made any assessment as to whether the current Maximum Student Number cap is compatible with achieving the skills, productivity and economic growth objectives, contained within the Programme for Government 2024-2027.","answerText":"The Maximum Student Number (MaSN) cap is kept under ongoing review by my Department, including in the context of the Programme for Government 2024–2027 and the need to support skills development, productivity and economic growth.\n\nMaSN is considered as part of a wider package of interventions across the tertiary education system to ensure provision is aligned with economic need. Evidence, including the Skills Barometer, shows that skills demand exists across all qualification levels, including technical and professional pathways.\n\nIt is therefore essential that provision across further education, apprenticeships and higher education is balanced, flexible and responsive to the needs of employers and the wider economy.","answerHtml":"The Maximum Student Number (MaSN) cap is kept under ongoing review by my Department, including in the context of the Programme for Government 2024–2027 and the need to support skills development, productivity and economic growth.
MaSN is considered as part of a wider package of interventions across the tertiary education system to ensure provision is aligned with economic need. Evidence, including the Skills Barometer, shows that skills demand exists across all qualification levels, including technical and professional pathways.
It is therefore essential that provision across further education, apprenticeships and higher education is balanced, flexible and responsive to the needs of employers and the wider economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492939","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492939"}},{"id":"492938","reference":"AQW 49725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has considered establishing an independent body to provide strategic oversight of (i) higher education; (ii) further education; (iii) skills provision; and (iv) workforce planning, in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"There are no current plans to establish an independent body to provide strategic oversight for higher education and further education. My Department will continue to perform regulatory functions to ensure that institutions deliver high quality education and research, remain financially viable and protect the interests of students.\n\nStrategic oversight for skills provisions is also provided through my Department’s existing leadership and governance arrangements. This is supported by cross-government collaboration and a range of established advisory and delivery mechanisms, to ensure that the system remains aligned with my Economic Vision and the Programme for Government.\n\nMy officials are exploring options to strengthen employer-led skills development, including models such as Skillnet Ireland and a potential Workforce Development Agency. Engagement with NI Chamber is helping to assess how these approaches could support wider skills policy, with preparatory work underway to develop the evidence base, options, and stakeholder engagement needed to support informed decision-making in the next mandate.","answerHtml":"There are no current plans to establish an independent body to provide strategic oversight for higher education and further education. My Department will continue to perform regulatory functions to ensure that institutions deliver high quality education and research, remain financially viable and protect the interests of students.
Strategic oversight for skills provisions is also provided through my Department’s existing leadership and governance arrangements. This is supported by cross-government collaboration and a range of established advisory and delivery mechanisms, to ensure that the system remains aligned with my Economic Vision and the Programme for Government.
My officials are exploring options to strengthen employer-led skills development, including models such as Skillnet Ireland and a potential Workforce Development Agency. Engagement with NI Chamber is helping to assess how these approaches could support wider skills policy, with preparatory work underway to develop the evidence base, options, and stakeholder engagement needed to support informed decision-making in the next mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492938","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492938"}},{"id":"492937","reference":"AQW 49724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-26","answerBy":"2026-07-15","answered":"2026-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she will commission an independent review of higher education funding and governance in Northern Ireland, including consideration of the relationship between (i) universities; (ii) further education colleges; (iii) apprenticeships; and (iv) wider skills provision.","answerText":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with stakeholders regarding the wider review which is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.","answerHtml":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026.
My officials continue to engage with stakeholders regarding the wider review which is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492937","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492937"}},{"id":"492735","reference":"AQW 49611/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether the (i) Northern Ireland Policing Board; and (ii) PSNI, has requested additional resources to support the implementation of the McCloud pension remedy.","answerText":"To date, neither the Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board) nor the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) have requested additional resources from my Department to directly support the implementation of the McCloud pension remedy.","answerHtml":"To date, neither the Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board) nor the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) have requested additional resources from my Department to directly support the implementation of the McCloud pension remedy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049611%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492735","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492735"}},{"id":"492734","reference":"AQW 49610/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment that has been made of the impact that delays in implementing the McCloud pension remedy are having on confidence in police pensions, amongst serving and retired PSNI officers.","answerText":"While the Department of Justice has responsibility for overarching policy and legislative changes to police pensions regulations, the management and administration of the police pension scheme is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board), in its role as police pension scheme manager.\n\nThe Board advise they have engaged with the Northern Ireland Retired Police Officers Association (NIRPOA), the Police Federation, and the Superintendents Association Northern Ireland (SANI) regarding the delays, and all organisations are committed to providing advice to affected Members.\n\nAll three representative bodies sit on the Police Pension Scheme Advisory Board for Northern Ireland, providing a forum through which they can raise any concerns or issues on behalf of their members.","answerHtml":"While the Department of Justice has responsibility for overarching policy and legislative changes to police pensions regulations, the management and administration of the police pension scheme is the responsibility of the Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board), in its role as police pension scheme manager.
The Board advise they have engaged with the Northern Ireland Retired Police Officers Association (NIRPOA), the Police Federation, and the Superintendents Association Northern Ireland (SANI) regarding the delays, and all organisations are committed to providing advice to affected Members.
All three representative bodies sit on the Police Pension Scheme Advisory Board for Northern Ireland, providing a forum through which they can raise any concerns or issues on behalf of their members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049610%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492734"}},{"id":"492733","reference":"AQW 49609/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether any delays in implementing the McCloud pension remedy for retired PSNI officers have been identified as a risk by her Department.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board) advised my Department that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in their capacity as pension administrator would not meet the 31 March 2025 target for the release of Remediable Service Statements (RSS). There is, however, discretion within the legislation for the Board in its role as police pension Scheme Manager, to extend the timeline beyond 31st March. Following discussions between the Board and the PSNI a decision was taken to exercise the available legislative discretion.\n\nThe Board subsequently notified both the Pensions Regulator and my Department of this decision. My Department will continue to receive updates from the Board, around the implementation of the McCloud pension remedy.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board) advised my Department that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in their capacity as pension administrator would not meet the 31 March 2025 target for the release of Remediable Service Statements (RSS). There is, however, discretion within the legislation for the Board in its role as police pension Scheme Manager, to extend the timeline beyond 31st March. Following discussions between the Board and the PSNI a decision was taken to exercise the available legislative discretion.
The Board subsequently notified both the Pensions Regulator and my Department of this decision. My Department will continue to receive updates from the Board, around the implementation of the McCloud pension remedy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049609%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492733","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492733"}},{"id":"492732","reference":"AQW 49608/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assurances her Department has sought from the Northern Ireland Policing Board, regarding the completion of outstanding McCloud pension remedy cases affecting retired PSNI officers.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board), in its role as scheme manager, has assured my Department that work on the McCloud remedy is a priority for the Police Pensions Branch. In line with Government guidance, Remediable Service Statements (RSS) have been progressed for active officers since October 2023. I am aware that the March 2025 deadline was not met for retired officers. The Board has communicated with the Pension Regulator and my Department regarding the cause of the delay which includes both data accuracy and technical issues. I am assured that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Pensions Branch communicates with their members by publishing updates on their website.\n\nI appreciate the delay is disappointing; however, I am assured that both the Board and the PSNI are working to resolve the issues to ensure members, including retired officers, receive an accurate RSS as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board), in its role as scheme manager, has assured my Department that work on the McCloud remedy is a priority for the Police Pensions Branch. In line with Government guidance, Remediable Service Statements (RSS) have been progressed for active officers since October 2023. I am aware that the March 2025 deadline was not met for retired officers. The Board has communicated with the Pension Regulator and my Department regarding the cause of the delay which includes both data accuracy and technical issues. I am assured that the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) Pensions Branch communicates with their members by publishing updates on their website.
I appreciate the delay is disappointing; however, I am assured that both the Board and the PSNI are working to resolve the issues to ensure members, including retired officers, receive an accurate RSS as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049608%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492732","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492732"}},{"id":"492731","reference":"AQW 49607/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-25","answerBy":"2026-07-10","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any engagement her Department has had with the (i) Northern Ireland Policing Board; and (ii) PSNI, regarding delays in implementing the McCloud pension remedy for retired police officers.","answerText":"The police pension oversight structure in Northern Ireland is governed by a tripartite framework established under the Public Service Pensions Act (Northern Ireland) 2014. It comprises of three tiers:\n\nScheme Manager: The Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board) is designated as the scheme manager, with statutory responsibility to manage and administer police pensions and injury benefits.\n\nPolice Pension Board: This board assists the Scheme Manager in securing the effective and efficient administration of the schemes. It consists of an independent chair, equal numbers of employer (PSNI) and employee representatives, and an independent member.\n\nScheme Advisory Board: This body provides advice to my Department\n\nregarding the desirability of any major changes to the police pension scheme rules. Both the PSNI and the Board are represented on this Board.\n\nDay-to-day administration is delegated by the Board to the PSNI Pensions Branch.\n\nThe Board advised my Department that the PSNI would not meet the 31 March 2025 target for the release of Remediable Service Statements (RSS). There is discretion within the legislation for the Board as Scheme Manager, to extend the timeline beyond 31st March. Following discussions between the Board and the PSNI, a decision was taken to exercise the available legislative discretion. The Board subsequently notified both the Pensions Regulator and my Department of this decision.\n\nMy Department will continue to liaise with both the Board and PSNI in relation to the matter.","answerHtml":"The police pension oversight structure in Northern Ireland is governed by a tripartite framework established under the Public Service Pensions Act (Northern Ireland) 2014. It comprises of three tiers:
Scheme Manager: The Northern Ireland Policing Board (the Board) is designated as the scheme manager, with statutory responsibility to manage and administer police pensions and injury benefits.
Police Pension Board: This board assists the Scheme Manager in securing the effective and efficient administration of the schemes. It consists of an independent chair, equal numbers of employer (PSNI) and employee representatives, and an independent member.
Scheme Advisory Board: This body provides advice to my Department
regarding the desirability of any major changes to the police pension scheme rules. Both the PSNI and the Board are represented on this Board.
Day-to-day administration is delegated by the Board to the PSNI Pensions Branch.
The Board advised my Department that the PSNI would not meet the 31 March 2025 target for the release of Remediable Service Statements (RSS). There is discretion within the legislation for the Board as Scheme Manager, to extend the timeline beyond 31st March. Following discussions between the Board and the PSNI, a decision was taken to exercise the available legislative discretion. The Board subsequently notified both the Pensions Regulator and my Department of this decision.
My Department will continue to liaise with both the Board and PSNI in relation to the matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049607%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492731","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492731"}},{"id":"492485","reference":"AQW 49497/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail whether (i) any assessment has been made of whether current inspection, regulation and oversight arrangements provide sufficient assurance that individuals receiving care in hospital, learning disability, mental health and residential care settings are treated with dignity, respect and person-centred care; and (ii) any changes are planned in light of the findings of the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Public Inquiry.","answerText":"My Department keeps under continuous review the effectiveness of inspection, regulation and oversight arrangements across Health and Social Care services, including hospital, learning disability, mental health and residential care settings. Assurance is derived from a range of sources, including Health and Social Care Trust governance arrangements, safeguarding processes, Serious Adverse Incident (SAI) reporting, Early Alert notifications, complaints, service-user feedback, and the independent inspection and regulatory functions of the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA).\n\nThe current regulatory framework places a strong emphasis on person-centred, safe and compassionate care, with Department of Health standards requiring services to treat individuals with dignity, respect and compassion and to involve them as partners in decisions about their care.\n\nRQIA’s inspection processes explicitly test these principles by examining care practices, staff interactions and organisational culture, and by directly gathering feedback from patients, residents, families, staff and visiting professionals. Findings are reported publicly, with providers required to address any areas of concern.\n\nIn light of the findings of the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry (MAHI), there is a continued and enhanced focus across the regulatory system on strengthening assurance around the experiences of people receiving care, particularly in learning disability and mental health settings.\n\nThe RQIA Authority is giving careful consideration to the recommendations made within the MAHI Report that directly relate to the functions and processes of RQIA, and also those where RQIA can contribute towards progressing recommendations across the wider system. The Authority is considering the details at its forthcoming meeting in early July 2026 and intends setting out its planned actions a short time thereafter, ensuring that it makes progress promptly in response to the report's conclusions and recommendations.\n\nMy Department is also examining the MAHI report and its recommendations in detail. Work has begun on some of the recommendations which will continue at pace. As some of these have financial implications, they will need detailed consideration on how to move forward. We will also progress work to identify interfaces or alignment between the Inquiry’s recommendations and other work that is already being progressed by my Department.","answerHtml":"My Department keeps under continuous review the effectiveness of inspection, regulation and oversight arrangements across Health and Social Care services, including hospital, learning disability, mental health and residential care settings. Assurance is derived from a range of sources, including Health and Social Care Trust governance arrangements, safeguarding processes, Serious Adverse Incident (SAI) reporting, Early Alert notifications, complaints, service-user feedback, and the independent inspection and regulatory functions of the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA).
The current regulatory framework places a strong emphasis on person-centred, safe and compassionate care, with Department of Health standards requiring services to treat individuals with dignity, respect and compassion and to involve them as partners in decisions about their care.
RQIA’s inspection processes explicitly test these principles by examining care practices, staff interactions and organisational culture, and by directly gathering feedback from patients, residents, families, staff and visiting professionals. Findings are reported publicly, with providers required to address any areas of concern.
In light of the findings of the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Inquiry (MAHI), there is a continued and enhanced focus across the regulatory system on strengthening assurance around the experiences of people receiving care, particularly in learning disability and mental health settings.
The RQIA Authority is giving careful consideration to the recommendations made within the MAHI Report that directly relate to the functions and processes of RQIA, and also those where RQIA can contribute towards progressing recommendations across the wider system. The Authority is considering the details at its forthcoming meeting in early July 2026 and intends setting out its planned actions a short time thereafter, ensuring that it makes progress promptly in response to the report's conclusions and recommendations.
My Department is also examining the MAHI report and its recommendations in detail. Work has begun on some of the recommendations which will continue at pace. As some of these have financial implications, they will need detailed consideration on how to move forward. We will also progress work to identify interfaces or alignment between the Inquiry’s recommendations and other work that is already being progressed by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049497%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492485"}},{"id":"492484","reference":"AQW 49496/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-08-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any consideration has been given to increasing transparency in the residential care sector; (ii) whether information relating to staffing levels, inspection findings, safeguarding concerns and resident wellbeing outcomes are routinely available to families; and (iii) whether further reporting requirements are under consideration.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of transparency within the residential care home sector and supports a range of measures intended to provide assurance regarding the quality and safety of care services. All nursing and residential care homes operate within a regulatory framework overseen by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). RQIA inspection reports are publicly available and provide information on compliance with relevant legislation and standards, highlighting areas of good practice and areas where improvement is required. RQIA also maintains a public facing register of regulated services.\n\nIn addition, transparency is supported through user and family engagement in complaints procedures and safeguarding arrangements.\n\nInformation relating to inspection findings is routinely available to families and the wider public through the publication of RQIA inspection reports. This is accessible information.\n\nCare home providers are also expected to communicate appropriately with residents and families regarding matters affecting the care, wellbeing and safety of individual residents. Information relating to staffing levels, safeguarding concerns and resident outcomes is subject to a range of regulatory and governance arrangements and is considered by providers, Health and Social Care Trusts and RQIA as part of their respective oversight responsibilities.\n\nHowever, not all such information is routinely published or reported to families in a standardised format across the sector. This reflects the need to balance transparency with legal obligations regarding confidentiality, data protection and the privacy of residents and staff.\n\nMy Department keeps arrangements for oversight, accountability and transparency under review and works closely with RQIA, Health and Social Care Trusts and care home providers to support continuous improvement across the sector.\n\nMy Department recognises the value of ensuring that residents and families have access to meaningful information about the quality of care and residents' experiences. While there are currently no plans to introduce additional universal reporting requirements for care homes, opportunities to strengthen transparency and improve the information available to residents, families and the public will continue to be considered as part of ongoing policy development and service improvement work.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of transparency within the residential care home sector and supports a range of measures intended to provide assurance regarding the quality and safety of care services. All nursing and residential care homes operate within a regulatory framework overseen by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). RQIA inspection reports are publicly available and provide information on compliance with relevant legislation and standards, highlighting areas of good practice and areas where improvement is required. RQIA also maintains a public facing register of regulated services.
In addition, transparency is supported through user and family engagement in complaints procedures and safeguarding arrangements.
Information relating to inspection findings is routinely available to families and the wider public through the publication of RQIA inspection reports. This is accessible information.
Care home providers are also expected to communicate appropriately with residents and families regarding matters affecting the care, wellbeing and safety of individual residents. Information relating to staffing levels, safeguarding concerns and resident outcomes is subject to a range of regulatory and governance arrangements and is considered by providers, Health and Social Care Trusts and RQIA as part of their respective oversight responsibilities.
However, not all such information is routinely published or reported to families in a standardised format across the sector. This reflects the need to balance transparency with legal obligations regarding confidentiality, data protection and the privacy of residents and staff.
My Department keeps arrangements for oversight, accountability and transparency under review and works closely with RQIA, Health and Social Care Trusts and care home providers to support continuous improvement across the sector.
My Department recognises the value of ensuring that residents and families have access to meaningful information about the quality of care and residents' experiences. While there are currently no plans to introduce additional universal reporting requirements for care homes, opportunities to strengthen transparency and improve the information available to residents, families and the public will continue to be considered as part of ongoing policy development and service improvement work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049496%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492484","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492484"}},{"id":"492483","reference":"AQW 49495/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any measures that are used to assess the quality of life of individuals living in residential care settings; (ii) whether these measures include access to meaningful activities, social engagement and community participation; and (iii) whether any assessment has been made that existing arrangements adequately capture the lived experience of residents.","answerText":"Quality of life for care home residents is considered through a range of statutory, regulatory, care management and experience-based processes.\n\nAll nursing homes and residential homes are required to comply with the Minimum Standards for Residential Care Homes and Minimum Standards for Nursing Homes and associated regulations. These place a strong emphasis on person-centred care, dignity, privacy, independence, choice, rights, wellbeing and quality of life. Compliance with these standards is monitored by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) through registration, inspection and regulatory activity.\n\nIn addition, residents' needs, preferences and outcomes are assessed and reviewed through individual care planning arrangements and, where applicable, Health and Social Care Trust care management reviews. Information from residents, families, advocates, providers and care professionals contributes to understanding the quality of life and wellbeing of individuals living in residential care settings.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA), through its Patient Client Experience Programme, has also undertaken work to better understand the lived experience of care home residents through its \"My Home Life\" initiative, which uses the 10,000 More Voices methodology to gather residents' experiences and identify opportunities for improvement.\n\nExisting standards, care planning arrangements and inspection processes recognise that quality of life extends beyond meeting care needs. They include consideration of access to meaningful activities, opportunities for social engagement, maintaining relationships with family and friends, participation in community life where appropriate, support for cultural and spiritual needs, and the promotion of choice, independence and personal wellbeing.\n\nThe current governance framework for care homes includes a range of mechanisms designed to understand residents' experiences and outcomes, including engagement with residents and families during RQIA inspections, complaints and feedback processes, care management reviews, contract management processes, advocacy arrangements and provider quality assurance systems.\n\nMy Department recognises the importance of ensuring that the voices and experiences of residents inform service improvement and policy development. In addition to existing arrangements, the PHA's \"My Home Life\" initiative represents a specific piece of work aimed at capturing and analysing residents' lived experiences to support learning and improvement across the care home sector.","answerHtml":"Quality of life for care home residents is considered through a range of statutory, regulatory, care management and experience-based processes.
All nursing homes and residential homes are required to comply with the Minimum Standards for Residential Care Homes and Minimum Standards for Nursing Homes and associated regulations. These place a strong emphasis on person-centred care, dignity, privacy, independence, choice, rights, wellbeing and quality of life. Compliance with these standards is monitored by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) through registration, inspection and regulatory activity.
In addition, residents' needs, preferences and outcomes are assessed and reviewed through individual care planning arrangements and, where applicable, Health and Social Care Trust care management reviews. Information from residents, families, advocates, providers and care professionals contributes to understanding the quality of life and wellbeing of individuals living in residential care settings.
The Public Health Agency (PHA), through its Patient Client Experience Programme, has also undertaken work to better understand the lived experience of care home residents through its "My Home Life" initiative, which uses the 10,000 More Voices methodology to gather residents' experiences and identify opportunities for improvement.
Existing standards, care planning arrangements and inspection processes recognise that quality of life extends beyond meeting care needs. They include consideration of access to meaningful activities, opportunities for social engagement, maintaining relationships with family and friends, participation in community life where appropriate, support for cultural and spiritual needs, and the promotion of choice, independence and personal wellbeing.
The current governance framework for care homes includes a range of mechanisms designed to understand residents' experiences and outcomes, including engagement with residents and families during RQIA inspections, complaints and feedback processes, care management reviews, contract management processes, advocacy arrangements and provider quality assurance systems.
My Department recognises the importance of ensuring that the voices and experiences of residents inform service improvement and policy development. In addition to existing arrangements, the PHA's "My Home Life" initiative represents a specific piece of work aimed at capturing and analysing residents' lived experiences to support learning and improvement across the care home sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049495%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492483"}},{"id":"492482","reference":"AQW 49494/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any timetable for implementation of the recommendations contained within the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Public Inquiry report; (ii) any arrangements that will be put in place to monitor progress; and (iii) how implementation outcomes will be reported to the Assembly and the public.","answerText":"I have welcomed the publication of the Inquiry’s report, which I believe must be a watershed moment for the treatment and care of the most vulnerable in our society.\n\nWork on ensuring the lessons from the Inquiry are being applied has already begun. As an important first step I convened a Quality and Safety summit on 30 June 2026 which brought together Health and Social Care (HSC) system leaders, including Trust Chief Executives, Chairpersons and Chairs of the newly established Patient Safety and Quality Committees. This provided an opportunity to lay out my vision on the responsibilities and critical role that HSC organisations, particularly Trusts, hold in strengthening patient safety, culture, governance and accountability.\n\nI have noted Recommendation 2 within the Report which provides a six-month timescale for my Department’s response. My Department is committed to move swiftly to respond to the Recommendations within this timeframe, and I expect a response to be made before that time.\n\nWith regards to all the other recommendations, work has begun on some of these and this will continue at pace. As some recommendations have financial implications, they will need detailed consideration from my Department on how to move forward. My officials will also progress work to identify interfaces or alignment between the Inquiry’s recommendations and other work that is already being progressed by my Department. A small number of recommendations are also outside my remit, and I will engage with relevant Ministerial colleagues in respect of these.\n\nOnce this process has been completed and ownership of the recommendations has been agreed, the work required (or already underway) will be progressed to address the recommendations, including those relating to safeguarding, governance and oversight arrangements.\n\nProgress will be monitored through an assurance framework which will provide reports to the Inquiries Implementation Programme Management Board (IIPMB), chaired by my Permanent Secretary. The IIPMB provides strategic oversight and accountability across all responses to healthcare inquiries and reports and ensures alignment and accountability across the Department and the wider HSC for the delivery of Inquiry recommendations.\n\nUpdates on progress as the Department and the wider HSC work through the report will be provided to the Assembly and the wider public. However, the process for this is currently being considered.","answerHtml":"I have welcomed the publication of the Inquiry’s report, which I believe must be a watershed moment for the treatment and care of the most vulnerable in our society.
Work on ensuring the lessons from the Inquiry are being applied has already begun. As an important first step I convened a Quality and Safety summit on 30 June 2026 which brought together Health and Social Care (HSC) system leaders, including Trust Chief Executives, Chairpersons and Chairs of the newly established Patient Safety and Quality Committees. This provided an opportunity to lay out my vision on the responsibilities and critical role that HSC organisations, particularly Trusts, hold in strengthening patient safety, culture, governance and accountability.
I have noted Recommendation 2 within the Report which provides a six-month timescale for my Department’s response. My Department is committed to move swiftly to respond to the Recommendations within this timeframe, and I expect a response to be made before that time.
With regards to all the other recommendations, work has begun on some of these and this will continue at pace. As some recommendations have financial implications, they will need detailed consideration from my Department on how to move forward. My officials will also progress work to identify interfaces or alignment between the Inquiry’s recommendations and other work that is already being progressed by my Department. A small number of recommendations are also outside my remit, and I will engage with relevant Ministerial colleagues in respect of these.
Once this process has been completed and ownership of the recommendations has been agreed, the work required (or already underway) will be progressed to address the recommendations, including those relating to safeguarding, governance and oversight arrangements.
Progress will be monitored through an assurance framework which will provide reports to the Inquiries Implementation Programme Management Board (IIPMB), chaired by my Permanent Secretary. The IIPMB provides strategic oversight and accountability across all responses to healthcare inquiries and reports and ensures alignment and accountability across the Department and the wider HSC for the delivery of Inquiry recommendations.
Updates on progress as the Department and the wider HSC work through the report will be provided to the Assembly and the wider public. However, the process for this is currently being considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049494%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492482"}},{"id":"492481","reference":"AQW 49493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-24","answerBy":"2026-07-09","answered":"2026-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any steps he is taking to ensure that lessons arising from the Muckamore Abbey Hospital Public Inquiry are being applied across all health and social care settings providing care to vulnerable adults; and (ii) whether he has any plans to undertake any regional review of safeguarding, governance and oversight arrangements, following the Inquiry.","answerText":"I have welcomed the publication of the Inquiry’s report, which I believe must be a watershed moment for the treatment and care of the most vulnerable in our society.\n\nWork on ensuring the lessons from the Inquiry are being applied has already begun. As an important first step I convened a Quality and Safety summit on 30 June 2026 which brought together Health and Social Care (HSC) system leaders, including Trust Chief Executives, Chairpersons and Chairs of the newly established Patient Safety and Quality Committees. This provided an opportunity to lay out my vision on the responsibilities and critical role that HSC organisations, particularly Trusts, hold in strengthening patient safety, culture, governance and accountability.\n\nI have noted Recommendation 2 within the Report which provides a six-month timescale for my Department’s response. My Department is committed to move swiftly to respond to the Recommendations within this timeframe, and I expect a response to be made before that time.\n\nWith regards to all the other recommendations, work has begun on some of these and this will continue at pace. As some recommendations have financial implications, they will need detailed consideration from my Department on how to move forward. My officials will also progress work to identify interfaces or alignment between the Inquiry’s recommendations and other work that is already being progressed by my Department. A small number of recommendations are also outside my remit, and I will engage with relevant Ministerial colleagues in respect of these.\n\nOnce this process has been completed and ownership of the recommendations has been agreed, the work required (or already underway) will be progressed to address the recommendations, including those relating to safeguarding, governance and oversight arrangements.\n\nProgress will be monitored through an assurance framework which will provide reports to the Inquiries Implementation Programme Management Board (IIPMB), chaired by my Permanent Secretary. The IIPMB provides strategic oversight and accountability across all responses to healthcare inquiries and reports and ensures alignment and accountability across the Department and the wider HSC for the delivery of Inquiry recommendations.\n\nUpdates on progress as the Department and the wider HSC work through the report will be provided to the Assembly and the wider public. However, the process for this is currently being considered.","answerHtml":"I have welcomed the publication of the Inquiry’s report, which I believe must be a watershed moment for the treatment and care of the most vulnerable in our society.
Work on ensuring the lessons from the Inquiry are being applied has already begun. As an important first step I convened a Quality and Safety summit on 30 June 2026 which brought together Health and Social Care (HSC) system leaders, including Trust Chief Executives, Chairpersons and Chairs of the newly established Patient Safety and Quality Committees. This provided an opportunity to lay out my vision on the responsibilities and critical role that HSC organisations, particularly Trusts, hold in strengthening patient safety, culture, governance and accountability.
I have noted Recommendation 2 within the Report which provides a six-month timescale for my Department’s response. My Department is committed to move swiftly to respond to the Recommendations within this timeframe, and I expect a response to be made before that time.
With regards to all the other recommendations, work has begun on some of these and this will continue at pace. As some recommendations have financial implications, they will need detailed consideration from my Department on how to move forward. My officials will also progress work to identify interfaces or alignment between the Inquiry’s recommendations and other work that is already being progressed by my Department. A small number of recommendations are also outside my remit, and I will engage with relevant Ministerial colleagues in respect of these.
Once this process has been completed and ownership of the recommendations has been agreed, the work required (or already underway) will be progressed to address the recommendations, including those relating to safeguarding, governance and oversight arrangements.
Progress will be monitored through an assurance framework which will provide reports to the Inquiries Implementation Programme Management Board (IIPMB), chaired by my Permanent Secretary. The IIPMB provides strategic oversight and accountability across all responses to healthcare inquiries and reports and ensures alignment and accountability across the Department and the wider HSC for the delivery of Inquiry recommendations.
Updates on progress as the Department and the wider HSC work through the report will be provided to the Assembly and the wider public. However, the process for this is currently being considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492481"}},{"id":"492146","reference":"AQW 49384/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-23","answerBy":"2026-07-08","answered":"2026-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any guidance his Department provides to care homes and other residential settings on the provision of meaningful activities and cognitive stimulation for people living with dementia.","answerText":"Meaningful activities and cognitive stimulation are crucial for people living with dementia because they support not just memory, but also emotional wellbeing, identity, and quality of life.\n\nMy Department’s expectations regarding meaningful activities and cognitive stimulation in care homes are primarily set through the Department of Health (NI) Minimum Standards for Residential Care and Minimum Standards for Nursing Homes 2026 and enforced through inspection and regulation by the Regulated Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). The standards include provision of meaningful activities tailored to residents.\n\nThe RQIA inspection process will include the review of documentation, observation of practice and interaction with residents.\n\nAs HSC Trusts commission placements and monitor contract compliance, they are required to seek assurance that nursing homes are providing person-centred care plans, with opportunities for social interaction and meaningful engagement and activities tailored to residents' interests, abilities and life histories. Trust monitoring visits, reviews and contract management processes may look at activity programmes, resident feedback, care records and evidence that engagement is meaningful rather than simply task-based.","answerHtml":"Meaningful activities and cognitive stimulation are crucial for people living with dementia because they support not just memory, but also emotional wellbeing, identity, and quality of life.
My Department’s expectations regarding meaningful activities and cognitive stimulation in care homes are primarily set through the Department of Health (NI) Minimum Standards for Residential Care and Minimum Standards for Nursing Homes 2026 and enforced through inspection and regulation by the Regulated Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). The standards include provision of meaningful activities tailored to residents.
The RQIA inspection process will include the review of documentation, observation of practice and interaction with residents.
As HSC Trusts commission placements and monitor contract compliance, they are required to seek assurance that nursing homes are providing person-centred care plans, with opportunities for social interaction and meaningful engagement and activities tailored to residents' interests, abilities and life histories. Trust monitoring visits, reviews and contract management processes may look at activity programmes, resident feedback, care records and evidence that engagement is meaningful rather than simply task-based.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049384%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492146","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492146"}},{"id":"492145","reference":"AQW 49383/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-23","answerBy":"2026-07-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he is taking to ensure care providers have sufficient staffing levels, training and resources to deliver engaging and stimulating care for people living with dementia.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049383%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492145"}},{"id":"492144","reference":"AQW 49382/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-23","answerBy":"2026-07-08","answered":"2026-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether standards relating to meaningful engagement, social interaction and cognitive stimulation form part of the inspection and regulatory framework for dementia care services.","answerText":"The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) confirms that legislation and standards relating to meaningful engagement, social interaction and cognitive stimulation are integral components of the inspection and regulatory framework for all registered care services in Northern Ireland, including those for persons living with dementia.\n\nIndividuals living with dementia are being supported in a range of services regulated by RQIA including Care Homes and Domiciliary Care, either in their own homes or in a supported living facility. The Provider’s Statement of Purpose should specify the range of needs the service is designed to support.","answerHtml":"The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) confirms that legislation and standards relating to meaningful engagement, social interaction and cognitive stimulation are integral components of the inspection and regulatory framework for all registered care services in Northern Ireland, including those for persons living with dementia.
Individuals living with dementia are being supported in a range of services regulated by RQIA including Care Homes and Domiciliary Care, either in their own homes or in a supported living facility. The Provider’s Statement of Purpose should specify the range of needs the service is designed to support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049382%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492144"}},{"id":"492143","reference":"AQW 49381/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-23","answerBy":"2026-07-08","answered":"2026-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the availability and quality of activity-based interventions for people living with dementia in care homes and community settings.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of activity-based interventions in supporting the wellbeing, independence and quality of life of people living with dementia, both in care homes and in community settings.\n\nWhile there has not been a single, comprehensive regional assessment solely focused on activity-based interventions, their availability and quality are considered through a range of existing oversight and assurance mechanisms. In particular, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) assesses the quality of care provided in regulated settings, including care homes, against established standards.\n\nCare Home Minimum Standards require providers to adopt a person-centred approach to care, ensuring that residents have opportunities for meaningful activity, social interaction and engagement that reflect their individual needs, preferences and abilities. During inspections, RQIA considers how services support residents’ emotional, social and cognitive wellbeing, including the provision of appropriate activity programmes and therapeutic interventions for people living with dementia.\n\nIn community settings, activity-based interventions are delivered through a combination of Health and Social Care (HSC) services and programmes provided by community and voluntary sector organisations. These may include day opportunities, memory services, dementia support programmes, and initiatives such as music-based activities, reminiscence therapy and cognitive stimulation.\n\nThe Department continues to work with HSC Trusts and partners to promote good practice, share learning, and improve consistency in access to high-quality, evidence-based interventions across all settings. This includes ongoing efforts to strengthen person-centred approaches and ensure that people living with dementia can benefit from engaging and therapeutic activities as part of their overall care and support.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of activity-based interventions in supporting the wellbeing, independence and quality of life of people living with dementia, both in care homes and in community settings.
While there has not been a single, comprehensive regional assessment solely focused on activity-based interventions, their availability and quality are considered through a range of existing oversight and assurance mechanisms. In particular, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) assesses the quality of care provided in regulated settings, including care homes, against established standards.
Care Home Minimum Standards require providers to adopt a person-centred approach to care, ensuring that residents have opportunities for meaningful activity, social interaction and engagement that reflect their individual needs, preferences and abilities. During inspections, RQIA considers how services support residents’ emotional, social and cognitive wellbeing, including the provision of appropriate activity programmes and therapeutic interventions for people living with dementia.
In community settings, activity-based interventions are delivered through a combination of Health and Social Care (HSC) services and programmes provided by community and voluntary sector organisations. These may include day opportunities, memory services, dementia support programmes, and initiatives such as music-based activities, reminiscence therapy and cognitive stimulation.
The Department continues to work with HSC Trusts and partners to promote good practice, share learning, and improve consistency in access to high-quality, evidence-based interventions across all settings. This includes ongoing efforts to strengthen person-centred approaches and ensure that people living with dementia can benefit from engaging and therapeutic activities as part of their overall care and support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049381%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492143"}},{"id":"492142","reference":"AQW 49380/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-23","answerBy":"2026-07-08","answered":"2026-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any consideration has been given to expanding access to non-pharmacological interventions, including music-based activities, reminiscence therapy and other evidence-based approaches, for people living with dementia.","answerText":"A range of organisations across Northern Ireland provide non-pharmacological interventions for people living with dementia, including music therapy, reminiscence programmes and cognitive stimulation therapy. These supports are delivered through a combination of Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust services, as well as voluntary and community sector organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society, Age NI, and local community groups.\n\nHSC Trusts typically provide structured interventions, through memory services and day services. Voluntary organisations complement this provision by offering community-based supports such as music therapy sessions, reminiscence groups and peer support programmes, often delivered in partnership with local councils and community.\n\nDue to the current financial savings that are required there are no immediate plans to expand these non-pharmaceutical interventions. However, I remain committed to identifying additional funding across health and social care, including dementia services, wherever possible","answerHtml":"A range of organisations across Northern Ireland provide non-pharmacological interventions for people living with dementia, including music therapy, reminiscence programmes and cognitive stimulation therapy. These supports are delivered through a combination of Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust services, as well as voluntary and community sector organisations such as the Alzheimer’s Society, Age NI, and local community groups.
HSC Trusts typically provide structured interventions, through memory services and day services. Voluntary organisations complement this provision by offering community-based supports such as music therapy sessions, reminiscence groups and peer support programmes, often delivered in partnership with local councils and community.
Due to the current financial savings that are required there are no immediate plans to expand these non-pharmaceutical interventions. However, I remain committed to identifying additional funding across health and social care, including dementia services, wherever possible
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049380%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=492142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=492142"}},{"id":"491775","reference":"AQW 49253/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any discussions have taken place with the Irish Government, regarding the potential impact of defective concrete blocks on properties in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Officials have engaged with the Irish Ministry for Housing Local Government & Heritage and with the Housing Agency which administers the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme.","answerHtml":"My Officials have engaged with the Irish Ministry for Housing Local Government & Heritage and with the Housing Agency which administers the Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049253%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491775","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491775"}},{"id":"491774","reference":"AQW 49252/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment that has been made of the risk that defective concrete blocks, manufactured in the Republic of Ireland, may have been used in the construction of properties in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"As advised in AQW 49249/22-27 my Department is aware of 8 properties affected by Defective Block.\n\nThe Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government are responsible for construction products and their legislation, as a reserved matter. They have advised that they have not undertaken any assessment in relation to Defective Block in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"As advised in AQW 49249/22-27 my Department is aware of 8 properties affected by Defective Block.
The Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government are responsible for construction products and their legislation, as a reserved matter. They have advised that they have not undertaken any assessment in relation to Defective Block in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049252%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491774","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491774"}},{"id":"491773","reference":"AQW 49251/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will commission research into the prevalence of defective concrete blocks in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"There is no evidence to suggest that the problem of defective block is systemic in Northern Ireland. Should evidence of a systemic issue arise my Department will respond accordingly.","answerHtml":"There is no evidence to suggest that the problem of defective block is systemic in Northern Ireland. Should evidence of a systemic issue arise my Department will respond accordingly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049251%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491773"}},{"id":"491772","reference":"AQW 49250/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any consideration has been given to establishing a reporting mechanism for homeowners who believe their properties may be affected by defective concrete blocks.","answerText":"Derry and Strabane District Council have a reporting mechanism for homeowners within the district who believe their properties may be affected by defective concrete blocks.","answerHtml":"Derry and Strabane District Council have a reporting mechanism for homeowners within the district who believe their properties may be affected by defective concrete blocks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049250%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491772"}},{"id":"491771","reference":"AQW 49249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-22","answerBy":"2026-07-07","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment that has been undertaken to determine the prevalence of defective concrete blocks, containing excessive levels of mica or pyrite, in residential properties in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"There has been no evidence provided to the Department to suggest that there is a systemic issue within Northern Ireland pertaining to properties constructed using these defective materials.\n\nMy Department is aware of eight properties identified by the owner as containing defective concrete blocks - six social homes and two private dwellings, all within the Foyle constituency.","answerHtml":"There has been no evidence provided to the Department to suggest that there is a systemic issue within Northern Ireland pertaining to properties constructed using these defective materials.
My Department is aware of eight properties identified by the owner as containing defective concrete blocks - six social homes and two private dwellings, all within the Foyle constituency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491771"}},{"id":"491157","reference":"AQW 49002/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether, in considering calls for a statutory public inquiry into cervical screening failures in Northern Ireland, he received and considered information relating to cases arising in all Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) to detail the number of women whose cases were considered, including those involving (a) incorrect cervical cytology results; (b) Serious Adverse Incident investigations; and (c) full disclosure meetings, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049002%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491157"}},{"id":"491156","reference":"AQW 49001/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":"2026-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the methodology used to determine whether a statutory public inquiry into cervical screening failures should be established; and (ii) whether the evidence considered was drawn from all Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCT), or was limited to specific HSCT areas.","answerText":"Concerns had been raised with the cervical screening programme operated by the Southern Trust. In response, the Southern Trust and Public Health Agency (PHA) commissioned a number of reports in an attempt to assess the extent of any failures in delivery of the cervical screening programme.\n\nSome of these reports appeared to contradict each other and as a result I asked Professor Sir Frank Atherton, previously the Chief Medical Officer in Wales, and completely independent of the cervical screening programme in Northern Ireland, to undertake a review of all the work completed to date in relation to the Southern Trust’s cervical screening service and provide his expert advice directly to me.\n\nAs part of his Terms of Reference (ToR), I asked him to advise me on whether/if a statutory public inquiry may provide additional significant assessment to the questions included within the ToR. The methodology for completing his report was left to Sir Frank to determine.\n\nIn completing his report, Sir Frank met directly with the current clinical and managerial leaders in the organisations responsible for policy, oversight and delivery of the NI Cervical Screening Programme, as well as other interested parties who indicated they would wish to meet him.\n\nI received Sir Frank’s report at the end of April 2026 which I carefully considered. I wanted to understand what happened, why it happened, who was responsible and what can be done to prevent it happening again. I believe Sir Frank’s report provided that information and, on that basis, decided not to initiate a statutory public inquiry.","answerHtml":"Concerns had been raised with the cervical screening programme operated by the Southern Trust. In response, the Southern Trust and Public Health Agency (PHA) commissioned a number of reports in an attempt to assess the extent of any failures in delivery of the cervical screening programme.
Some of these reports appeared to contradict each other and as a result I asked Professor Sir Frank Atherton, previously the Chief Medical Officer in Wales, and completely independent of the cervical screening programme in Northern Ireland, to undertake a review of all the work completed to date in relation to the Southern Trust’s cervical screening service and provide his expert advice directly to me.
As part of his Terms of Reference (ToR), I asked him to advise me on whether/if a statutory public inquiry may provide additional significant assessment to the questions included within the ToR. The methodology for completing his report was left to Sir Frank to determine.
In completing his report, Sir Frank met directly with the current clinical and managerial leaders in the organisations responsible for policy, oversight and delivery of the NI Cervical Screening Programme, as well as other interested parties who indicated they would wish to meet him.
I received Sir Frank’s report at the end of April 2026 which I carefully considered. I wanted to understand what happened, why it happened, who was responsible and what can be done to prevent it happening again. I believe Sir Frank’s report provided that information and, on that basis, decided not to initiate a statutory public inquiry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049001%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491156","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491156"}},{"id":"491155","reference":"AQW 49000/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of women who (i) received an incorrect cervical cytology result; (ii) have been the subject of a Serious Adverse Incident investigation in relation to cervical screening; (iii) received a full disclosure meeting in relation to cervical screening failures; and (iv) subsequently received a diagnosis of cervical cancer, since 2008, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049000%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491155","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491155"}},{"id":"491154","reference":"AQW 48999/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any additional concerns in relation to cervical screening services that have been identified since publication of the Independent Expert Review and the six reports commissioned by his Department, including the number of (i) Serious Adverse Incidents; (ii) patient safety investigations; (iii) complaints; (iv) disclosures; and (v) whistleblower allegations received or initiated during that period.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048999%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491154","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491154"}},{"id":"491153","reference":"AQW 48998/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-07-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any women who were identified as having received an incorrect cervical screening result (i) became the subject of a Serious Adverse Incident investigation; or (ii) received a full disclosure meeting after the completion of the Department’s review process, were excluded from consideration when determining whether to establish a statutory public inquiry.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048998%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491153"}},{"id":"491262","reference":"AQO 3813/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-18","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline any safeguards and monitoring arrangements in place for children and young people during the initial weeks of antidepressant treatment, given the risk of increased suicidal thoughts and behaviours during that period.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203813%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=491262","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=491262"}},{"id":"490893","reference":"AQW 48876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any assessment her Department has made of the opportunity cost of funding students, ordinarily resident in the Republic of Ireland, to study in Northern Ireland, including any impact on (a) teaching grant allocations; (b) student places; (c) research funding; and (d) the financial sustainability of Northern Ireland’s universities; and (ii) whether those considerations formed part of the Review of Higher Education Funding.","answerText":"Currently students from the south are treated as home students for the purposes of tuition fees and teaching grant. As such, they are supported through the Department’s funding model, including the provision of a teaching grant to institutions, and their numbers count towards the Maximum Student Number (MaSN). The Department monitors the operation of these arrangements on an ongoing basis.\n\nBoth I and my officials continue to engage with counterparts in the south on a range of issues relating to cross-border student mobility, including funding. I remain committed to working collaboratively to ensure that arrangements are sustainable and fair.\n\nThe first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.","answerHtml":"Currently students from the south are treated as home students for the purposes of tuition fees and teaching grant. As such, they are supported through the Department’s funding model, including the provision of a teaching grant to institutions, and their numbers count towards the Maximum Student Number (MaSN). The Department monitors the operation of these arrangements on an ongoing basis.
Both I and my officials continue to engage with counterparts in the south on a range of issues relating to cross-border student mobility, including funding. I remain committed to working collaboratively to ensure that arrangements are sustainable and fair.
The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490893"}},{"id":"490892","reference":"AQW 48875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) whether her Department has reviewed the current funding arrangements for students, ordinarily resident in the Republic of Ireland, studying at Northern Ireland higher education institutions; (ii) any consideration that has been given to alternative models, including arrangements whereby funding follows the student from their home jurisdiction; and (iii) whether any discussions have taken place with the Irish Government, regarding the future sustainability and fairness of the current arrangements.","answerText":"Under the Common Travel Area, students from the south are treated as home students for the purposes of tuition fees and teaching grant. As such, they are supported through the Department’s funding model, including the provision of a teaching grant to institutions, and their numbers count towards the Maximum Student Number (MaSN). The Department monitors the operation of these arrangements on an ongoing basis.\n\nBoth I and my officials continue to engage with counterparts in the south on a range of issues relating to cross-border student mobility, including funding. I remain committed to working collaboratively to ensure that arrangements are sustainable and fair.","answerHtml":"Under the Common Travel Area, students from the south are treated as home students for the purposes of tuition fees and teaching grant. As such, they are supported through the Department’s funding model, including the provision of a teaching grant to institutions, and their numbers count towards the Maximum Student Number (MaSN). The Department monitors the operation of these arrangements on an ongoing basis.
Both I and my officials continue to engage with counterparts in the south on a range of issues relating to cross-border student mobility, including funding. I remain committed to working collaboratively to ensure that arrangements are sustainable and fair.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490892","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490892"}},{"id":"490891","reference":"AQW 48874/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) whether students, ordinarily resident in the Republic of Ireland, are counted within the maximum student number allocation for Northern Ireland universities; (ii) the number of places, within the current allocation, that are occupied by students from the Republic of Ireland; (iii) any assessment that has been made of the impact of that arrangement on the availability of university places for students from Northern Ireland; and (iv) whether her Department has considered excluding Republic of Ireland students from the maximum student number cap.","answerText":"The MaSN cap primarily applies to full-time undergraduate students from the island of Ireland. Students from the south are therefore included in the MaSN.\n\nIn 2024/25 there were 3,100 full-time undergraduates from the south enrolled at higher education institutions in the north. The Department monitors the operation of these arrangements on an ongoing basis.\n\nExcluding southern students from the MaSN would mean that alternative sources of funding would need to be found for these students, such as increasing their fees. I am committed to removing barriers to north-south student mobility and increasing fees for students from the south would not support this aim.","answerHtml":"The MaSN cap primarily applies to full-time undergraduate students from the island of Ireland. Students from the south are therefore included in the MaSN.
In 2024/25 there were 3,100 full-time undergraduates from the south enrolled at higher education institutions in the north. The Department monitors the operation of these arrangements on an ongoing basis.
Excluding southern students from the MaSN would mean that alternative sources of funding would need to be found for these students, such as increasing their fees. I am committed to removing barriers to north-south student mobility and increasing fees for students from the south would not support this aim.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048874%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490891","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490891"}},{"id":"490890","reference":"AQW 48873/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any funding allocated to support students, ordinarily resident in the Republic of Ireland, studying at Northern Ireland higher education institutions, in each of the last five years; (ii) the number of such students that were supported in each year; (iii) the proportion of that funding that was provided through the teaching grant, or other departmental funding streams; and (iv) whether the Department has undertaken any assessment of the economic return to Northern Ireland from that expenditure.","answerText":"My Department does not hold complete information on funding allocated to support students studying here who are ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland.\n\nNecessary data on student support finance provided by Student Finance NI (SFNI) is held by the Student Loans Company. My Department has requested this information and it will be placed in the Assembly Library when available.\n\nThe Department also funds postgraduate research students through the Postgraduate Researcher (PGR) Scheme, formerly known as the Postgraduate Award Scheme. The Scheme funds the equivalent of 729 PhD studentships each year. Over the last five complete academic years, total Scheme funding was approximately £91.3 million, of which approximately £3.9 million related to students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland.\n\nFor the purposes of part (iii), this funding is a research funding stream rather than teaching grant, and the approximate amount attributable to students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland is shown separately in the table below.\n\nYear\tTotal Scheme funding\tNumber of PhD students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland enrolled on the Scheme (QUB and UU)\tApproximate funding for students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland\n2021/22\t£16.1m\t23\t£0.5m\n2022/23\t£17.7m\t20\t£0.5m\n2023/24\t£18.4m\t25\t£0.6m\n2024/25\t£18.9m\t31\t£0.8m\n2025/26\t£20.2m\t54\t£1.5m\nTotal\t£91.3m\t\t£3.9m\n\nFurther in relation to part (iii), teaching grant is provided to higher education institutions in respect of fundable students generally, including eligible students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland where they are fundable. However, teaching grant is not allocated, recorded or disaggregated by student domicile. It is therefore not possible to identify a teaching grant amount, or calculate a proportion of teaching grant or other departmental institutional funding, specifically attributable to students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland.\n\nIn relation to part (iv), the Department has not undertaken a specific assessment of the economic return from this expenditure. More generally, students studying at local higher education institutions contribute to the economy through their spending, support the sustainability of those institutions, and may contribute to the skills base and economy.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold complete information on funding allocated to support students studying here who are ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland.
Necessary data on student support finance provided by Student Finance NI (SFNI) is held by the Student Loans Company. My Department has requested this information and it will be placed in the Assembly Library when available.
The Department also funds postgraduate research students through the Postgraduate Researcher (PGR) Scheme, formerly known as the Postgraduate Award Scheme. The Scheme funds the equivalent of 729 PhD studentships each year. Over the last five complete academic years, total Scheme funding was approximately £91.3 million, of which approximately £3.9 million related to students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland.
For the purposes of part (iii), this funding is a research funding stream rather than teaching grant, and the approximate amount attributable to students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland is shown separately in the table below.
| Year | Total Scheme funding | Number of PhD students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland enrolled on the Scheme (QUB and UU) | Approximate funding for students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland |
| 2021/22 | £16.1m | 23 | £0.5m |
| 2022/23 | £17.7m | 20 | £0.5m |
| 2023/24 | £18.4m | 25 | £0.6m |
| 2024/25 | £18.9m | 31 | £0.8m |
| 2025/26 | £20.2m | 54 | £1.5m |
| Total | £91.3m | £3.9m |
Further in relation to part (iii), teaching grant is provided to higher education institutions in respect of fundable students generally, including eligible students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland where they are fundable. However, teaching grant is not allocated, recorded or disaggregated by student domicile. It is therefore not possible to identify a teaching grant amount, or calculate a proportion of teaching grant or other departmental institutional funding, specifically attributable to students ordinarily resident in the south of Ireland.
In relation to part (iv), the Department has not undertaken a specific assessment of the economic return from this expenditure. More generally, students studying at local higher education institutions contribute to the economy through their spending, support the sustainability of those institutions, and may contribute to the skills base and economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048873%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490890","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490890"}},{"id":"490889","reference":"AQW 48872/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-17","answerBy":"2026-07-02","answered":"2026-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) whether any reductions in teaching grant or research funding, allocated to Northern Ireland’s universities, are intended to contribute, directly or indirectly, to the funding of the expansion of the Ulster University Magee campus; (ii) any additional funding that has been allocated for the Magee campus, within the current budget period; (iii) whether any existing higher education budgets have been reallocated to support the expansion of the Magee campus; and (iv) any assessment that has been made of the impact of such reallocations on other university campuses and student provision.","answerText":"In the absence of an agreed Executive Budget for 2026/27, Departments are working off contingency planning envelopes. Final allocations to Universities can only be made once an agreed budget is in place.","answerHtml":"In the absence of an agreed Executive Budget for 2026/27, Departments are working off contingency planning envelopes. Final allocations to Universities can only be made once an agreed budget is in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048872%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490889"}},{"id":"490546","reference":"AQW 48768/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-16","answerBy":"2026-07-01","answered":"2026-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any assessment she has made on whether an inflationary adjustment to tuition fees is distinct from a real-terms increase in tuition fees; (ii) why the Review of Higher Education Funding did not recommend annual inflationary uprating of the tuition fee cap; (iii) any assessment her Department has made of the financial impact on Northern Ireland’s universities of tuition fees, failing to keep pace with inflation; (iv) whether universities have raised any issues regarding the resulting funding gap; and (v) how those concerns were reflected in the Review’s recommendations.","answerText":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026.\n\nThe Financial Needs Assessment was commissioned as the first phase of the wider Review of Higher Education Funding.\n\nThe tuition fee cap has been subject annual uplifts since the introduction of higher tuition fees in academic year 2006/07.\n\nIn recognition of the financial pressures faced by the higher education sector both here and across these islands, my Department made a number of bids as part of the multi-year Spending Review budget exercise.\n\nDespite the challenging budgetary position in the last financial year, I sought to prioritise funding for skills and specifically for our Higher and Further Education institutions, including successfully advocating for in-year funding.\n\nI continue to seek additional resources for my Department, so that we can increase funding for Higher Education.","answerHtml":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026.
The Financial Needs Assessment was commissioned as the first phase of the wider Review of Higher Education Funding.
The tuition fee cap has been subject annual uplifts since the introduction of higher tuition fees in academic year 2006/07.
In recognition of the financial pressures faced by the higher education sector both here and across these islands, my Department made a number of bids as part of the multi-year Spending Review budget exercise.
Despite the challenging budgetary position in the last financial year, I sought to prioritise funding for skills and specifically for our Higher and Further Education institutions, including successfully advocating for in-year funding.
I continue to seek additional resources for my Department, so that we can increase funding for Higher Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048768%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490546"}},{"id":"490545","reference":"AQW 48767/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-16","answerBy":"2026-07-01","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any assessment her Department has made of the impact that recent public disorder, together with changes to UK immigration and student visa policy, may have on the recruitment and retention of international students; (ii) whether she has received representations from universities regarding those risks; (iii) any assessment that has been made of the financial implications for higher education institutions, should international student numbers decline; and (iv) any steps her Department is taking to mitigate potential risks, given the contribution that international student income makes to the financial sustainability of universities.","answerText":"International students make an important contribution to our local economic, academic, and social development, contributing over £950 million annually.\n\nWhile it is too early to know what the impact of the recent public disorder will have on the recruitment and retention of international students, I am acutely aware that changes to immigration and student visa policy imposed by the British Government are having a negative impact on international student enrolments at our universities.\n\nBoth Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University have indicated that these policy changes are adversely affecting international student recruitment with consequent implications for their financial position. I, along with my officials, continue to engage with all Higher Education Institutions on a range of financial and operational matters, as well as the Department’s challenging financial situation.\n\nI met with the British Immigration Minister last summer to directly raise my concerns with the Immigration White Paper and its impact on our economy. The Minister agreed to consider my concerns but unfortunately to date no changes have been made and my officials continue to highlight this, and wider immigration issues to the Home Office.","answerHtml":"International students make an important contribution to our local economic, academic, and social development, contributing over £950 million annually.
While it is too early to know what the impact of the recent public disorder will have on the recruitment and retention of international students, I am acutely aware that changes to immigration and student visa policy imposed by the British Government are having a negative impact on international student enrolments at our universities.
Both Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University have indicated that these policy changes are adversely affecting international student recruitment with consequent implications for their financial position. I, along with my officials, continue to engage with all Higher Education Institutions on a range of financial and operational matters, as well as the Department’s challenging financial situation.
I met with the British Immigration Minister last summer to directly raise my concerns with the Immigration White Paper and its impact on our economy. The Minister agreed to consider my concerns but unfortunately to date no changes have been made and my officials continue to highlight this, and wider immigration issues to the Home Office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490545"}},{"id":"490544","reference":"AQW 48766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-16","answerBy":"2026-07-01","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any assessment that was undertaken, as part of the Review of Higher Education Funding, of the impact of the maximum student number cap on Northern Ireland’s ability to meet future workforce and skills needs; (ii) whether consideration was given to increasing or reforming the cap, in areas experiencing skills shortages; and (iii) how maintaining the current cap supports delivery of the Executive’s Programme for Government objectives relating to economic growth, productivity and workforce development.","answerText":"Due to the significant level of public funding provided to the universities, my Department has to control spending to stay within annual budget allocations. The Maximum Student Number cap limits the Department’s financial exposure.\n\nI recognise the integral role of Higher Education for students, the economy and civic society, and remain committed to a thriving local sector that supports a strong, regionally balanced economy.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with key stakeholders in the sector including Unions and Higher Education Institutions regarding the wider Review of Higher Education Funding. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.","answerHtml":"Due to the significant level of public funding provided to the universities, my Department has to control spending to stay within annual budget allocations. The Maximum Student Number cap limits the Department’s financial exposure.
I recognise the integral role of Higher Education for students, the economy and civic society, and remain committed to a thriving local sector that supports a strong, regionally balanced economy.
My officials continue to engage with key stakeholders in the sector including Unions and Higher Education Institutions regarding the wider Review of Higher Education Funding. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490544"}},{"id":"490543","reference":"AQW 48765/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-16","answerBy":"2026-07-01","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) whether the Review of Higher Education Funding considered Northern Ireland’s (a) future workforce requirements; (b) demographic trends; (c) skills shortages; (d) research capacity; (e) regional economic needs; and (f) long-term economic growth objectives; (ii) how any considerations informed the review’s conclusions; and (iii) the reason why the review was not conducted as a broader strategic review of higher education, skills and economic development, similar to approaches undertaken in Scotland.","answerText":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026.\n\nThe Financial Needs Assessment was commissioned as the first phase of the wider Review of Higher Education Funding. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.","answerHtml":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of the local Higher Education Institutions, has been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March 2026.
The Financial Needs Assessment was commissioned as the first phase of the wider Review of Higher Education Funding. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048765%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490543"}},{"id":"490542","reference":"AQW 48764/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-16","answerBy":"2026-07-01","answered":"2026-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any formal engagement that took place with (a) universities; (b) further education colleges; (c) students; (d) employers; and (e) other stakeholders, as part of the Review of Higher Education Funding; (ii) any feedback that has been received, regarding the Review’s scope and methodology; and (ii) whether she is satisfied that those most directly affected by the Review, have had sufficient opportunity to influence its direction and recommendations.","answerText":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of our Higher Education Institutions, has recently been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with key stakeholders in the sector including Unions and Higher Education Institutions regarding the wider Review of Higher Education. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.\n\nI am committed to working in partnership with all local Higher Education Institutions and relevant stakeholders to find a sustainable way forward for our higher education sector.","answerHtml":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of our Higher Education Institutions, has recently been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March.
My officials continue to engage with key stakeholders in the sector including Unions and Higher Education Institutions regarding the wider Review of Higher Education. The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
I am committed to working in partnership with all local Higher Education Institutions and relevant stakeholders to find a sustainable way forward for our higher education sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048764%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=490542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=490542"}},{"id":"489942","reference":"AQW 48563/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-12","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":"2026-08-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail any mandatory referral pathways that are triggered when a patient is discharged from hospital with a palliative diagnosis; (ii) whether these pathways automatically notify community nursing, social work, occupational therapy and equipment services; and (iii) whether any assessment has been made that existing arrangements ensure seamless continuity of care for patients approaching end of life.","answerText":"Patients discharged from hospital with palliative care needs should continue to receive coordinated support across services. There are established discharge planning processes which require that a patient’s ongoing care needs are assessed prior to discharge, and that appropriate referrals are made to relevant community services based on clinical need. This includes referral to community nursing teams, social work, allied health professionals and community specialist palliative care, as appropriate.\n\nThe processes in place to notify community services rely on multidisciplinary discharge planning at ward level and clinical judgment to ensure that the appropriate referrals are made to community-based services.\n\nWhere patients are identified as having palliative care needs prior to discharge, a referral should be made to the district nurse for a holistic needs assessment. Where a patient is known to be in the dying phase of their illness, the regionally agreed Home for the Last Days of Life pathway should be followed when the discharge is being planned.\n\nWith the roll out of Encompass, work is ongoing across the Health and Social Care system to strengthen these processes through the use of a Palliative Care FYI flag.\n\nMy Department is aware of the current challenges in timely communication of palliative and end of life care information between care settings and there is ongoing engagement with Health and Social Care Trusts and partners in this regard.","answerHtml":"Patients discharged from hospital with palliative care needs should continue to receive coordinated support across services. There are established discharge planning processes which require that a patient’s ongoing care needs are assessed prior to discharge, and that appropriate referrals are made to relevant community services based on clinical need. This includes referral to community nursing teams, social work, allied health professionals and community specialist palliative care, as appropriate.
The processes in place to notify community services rely on multidisciplinary discharge planning at ward level and clinical judgment to ensure that the appropriate referrals are made to community-based services.
Where patients are identified as having palliative care needs prior to discharge, a referral should be made to the district nurse for a holistic needs assessment. Where a patient is known to be in the dying phase of their illness, the regionally agreed Home for the Last Days of Life pathway should be followed when the discharge is being planned.
With the roll out of Encompass, work is ongoing across the Health and Social Care system to strengthen these processes through the use of a Palliative Care FYI flag.
My Department is aware of the current challenges in timely communication of palliative and end of life care information between care settings and there is ongoing engagement with Health and Social Care Trusts and partners in this regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048563%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489942"}},{"id":"489941","reference":"AQW 48562/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-12","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":"2026-08-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he is aware of any cases where terminally ill patients have experienced delays in receiving essential palliative care equipment following discharge from hospital; (ii) to detail the average waiting time for the provision of such equipment, in each Health and Social Care Trust; and (iii) whether he intends to introduce maximum response times for palliative patients requiring urgent equipment to remain safely at home.","answerText":"Responses to this question were requested from each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nData relating to delays for patients with palliative care needs receiving equipment after discharge is not routinely recorded or identifiable within Trust data systems.\n\nHowever, all HSC Trusts reported that patients identified as having palliative and end-of-life needs are prioritised for equipment provision and are generally fast-tracked or referred as urgent based on clinical need.\n\nWith regards to waiting times for the provision of equipment, the average can vary between Trusts depending on local arrangements, availability and manufacturers delivery times.\n\nThe Western Trust advised they do not operate waiting lists for equipment, while the South Eastern Trust aims to provide urgent nursing equipment within one working day. The Southern Trust prioritises urgent requests with a target completion time of 1 to 3 days.\n\nThe Belfast Trust outlined a range of safeguards to ensure end-of-life patients are treated urgently, including provision of physiotherapy equipment before discharge where required and immediate provision of enteral feeding equipment.\n\nOverall, while quantitative data on delays for the provision of equipment for palliative care patients is not available, the Trusts consistently reported that palliative and end-of-life patients are prioritised for equipment provision, with processes in place to expedite urgent requests, minimise delays and provide equipment to people with identified palliative and end of life care needs at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"Responses to this question were requested from each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts.
Data relating to delays for patients with palliative care needs receiving equipment after discharge is not routinely recorded or identifiable within Trust data systems.
However, all HSC Trusts reported that patients identified as having palliative and end-of-life needs are prioritised for equipment provision and are generally fast-tracked or referred as urgent based on clinical need.
With regards to waiting times for the provision of equipment, the average can vary between Trusts depending on local arrangements, availability and manufacturers delivery times.
The Western Trust advised they do not operate waiting lists for equipment, while the South Eastern Trust aims to provide urgent nursing equipment within one working day. The Southern Trust prioritises urgent requests with a target completion time of 1 to 3 days.
The Belfast Trust outlined a range of safeguards to ensure end-of-life patients are treated urgently, including provision of physiotherapy equipment before discharge where required and immediate provision of enteral feeding equipment.
Overall, while quantitative data on delays for the provision of equipment for palliative care patients is not available, the Trusts consistently reported that palliative and end-of-life patients are prioritised for equipment provision, with processes in place to expedite urgent requests, minimise delays and provide equipment to people with identified palliative and end of life care needs at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048562%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489941"}},{"id":"489940","reference":"AQW 48561/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-12","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":"2026-08-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of palliative care patients who have been placed on routine waiting lists for community equipment, occupational therapy assessments or care package reviews, in each of the last five years; (ii) whether any such patients were subsequently reclassified as urgent; and (iii) any safeguards that are in place to prevent terminally ill patients being placed on standard waiting lists through administrative or automated processes.","answerText":"Responses to this question were requested from each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Trusts reported they do not hold data that would enable them to identify how many palliative care patients have been placed on routine waiting lists for community equipment, occupational therapy assessments, or care package reviews or how many patients were subsequently reclassified as urgent.\n\nDespite these data limitations, all Trusts reported that palliative and end-of-life patients are prioritised and fast-tracked based on clinical need. Referrals are clinically triaged by qualified professionals using regional prioritisation criteria, including the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS). Trusts also reported having processes in place to review referrals, monitor changes in patients' conditions, and escalate cases from routine to urgent status when required.\n\nHSC Trusts highlighted a range of safeguards to prevent terminally ill patients from remaining on routine waiting lists, including clinician-led triage, waiting list reviews and escalation procedures for urgent equipment, assessments, and care packages. Several Trusts specifically stated that end-of-life patients are always treated as urgent cases, with priority access to equipment and support services.\n\nOverall, whilst quantitative data is not currently available, there is consistent assurance across all Trusts that palliative and end-of-life patients are prioritised through established clinical assessment and escalation mechanisms designed to ensure timely access to care and support.","answerHtml":"Responses to this question were requested from each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts.
The Health and Social Care Trusts reported they do not hold data that would enable them to identify how many palliative care patients have been placed on routine waiting lists for community equipment, occupational therapy assessments, or care package reviews or how many patients were subsequently reclassified as urgent.
Despite these data limitations, all Trusts reported that palliative and end-of-life patients are prioritised and fast-tracked based on clinical need. Referrals are clinically triaged by qualified professionals using regional prioritisation criteria, including the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS). Trusts also reported having processes in place to review referrals, monitor changes in patients' conditions, and escalate cases from routine to urgent status when required.
HSC Trusts highlighted a range of safeguards to prevent terminally ill patients from remaining on routine waiting lists, including clinician-led triage, waiting list reviews and escalation procedures for urgent equipment, assessments, and care packages. Several Trusts specifically stated that end-of-life patients are always treated as urgent cases, with priority access to equipment and support services.
Overall, whilst quantitative data is not currently available, there is consistent assurance across all Trusts that palliative and end-of-life patients are prioritised through established clinical assessment and escalation mechanisms designed to ensure timely access to care and support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048561%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489940"}},{"id":"489939","reference":"AQW 48560/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-12","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":"2026-08-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether his Department has undertaken any review of communication and coordination between acute hospitals, community nursing teams, occupational therapists and social care services in relation to end-of-life care, including any shortcomings that have been identified; and (ii) to detail any actions that are being taken to ensure that patients discharged for palliative care receive all necessary support without avoidable delay.","answerText":"Effective communication and care coordination between health and social care teams is essential to the delivery of high‑quality palliative and end‑of‑life care.\n\nWhile Encompass has improved communication and information sharing between hospital and community services, my Department is aware of a number of challenges relating to the recording, visibility and communication of palliative and end-of-life care information across care settings. Some issues relating to the display of resuscitation status information as patients move between care settings have been identified and are being considered as part of ongoing optimisation of the system.\n\nThe Encompass system enables clinicians to ‘flag’ patients who have been identified as having palliative and end of life care needs so they can record key information about the patient condition, anticipatory care plans and personal preferences expressed through advance care planning conversations. The recording of these details in Encompass will then alert health and social care professionals in other services and care settings of the palliative phase of the patient’s illness and other key information to support decision making in line with the patient’s care plan and recorded preferences.\n\nMy Department is aware there are some utilisation challenges for clinicians which include ensuring appropriate users having the correct permissions to view and record the information and training required at a local level to ensure the relevant users know where to find the information on the system.\n\nThe encompass Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning Pathway Council continues to work to consider of how palliative care information including resuscitation status should be managed and communicated as patients move between hospital, community and other care settings.\n\nThrough the ongoing optimisation of encompass, the implementation of ReSPECT, and the development of neighbourhood care arrangements, my Department will continue to work with HSC organisations and partners to strengthen communication, coordination and continuity of care for patients approaching the end of life.","answerHtml":"Effective communication and care coordination between health and social care teams is essential to the delivery of high‑quality palliative and end‑of‑life care.
While Encompass has improved communication and information sharing between hospital and community services, my Department is aware of a number of challenges relating to the recording, visibility and communication of palliative and end-of-life care information across care settings. Some issues relating to the display of resuscitation status information as patients move between care settings have been identified and are being considered as part of ongoing optimisation of the system.
The Encompass system enables clinicians to ‘flag’ patients who have been identified as having palliative and end of life care needs so they can record key information about the patient condition, anticipatory care plans and personal preferences expressed through advance care planning conversations. The recording of these details in Encompass will then alert health and social care professionals in other services and care settings of the palliative phase of the patient’s illness and other key information to support decision making in line with the patient’s care plan and recorded preferences.
My Department is aware there are some utilisation challenges for clinicians which include ensuring appropriate users having the correct permissions to view and record the information and training required at a local level to ensure the relevant users know where to find the information on the system.
The encompass Palliative Care and Advance Care Planning Pathway Council continues to work to consider of how palliative care information including resuscitation status should be managed and communicated as patients move between hospital, community and other care settings.
Through the ongoing optimisation of encompass, the implementation of ReSPECT, and the development of neighbourhood care arrangements, my Department will continue to work with HSC organisations and partners to strengthen communication, coordination and continuity of care for patients approaching the end of life.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048560%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489939","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489939"}},{"id":"489938","reference":"AQW 48559/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-12","answerBy":"2026-06-29","answered":"2026-08-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any consideration will be given to establishing a regional fast-track protocol for patients receiving palliative or end-of-life care, including automatic prioritisation for equipment, home adaptations, care package assessments and community support services; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the potential benefits of such an approach for patient dignity and family wellbeing.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of ensuring that individuals receiving palliative and end‑of‑life care are supported with appropriate care in a timely manner. Following the relevant assessments, a range of mechanisms exist across Health and Social Care services to prioritise patients with urgent and complex needs, including those with palliative and end of life care needs.\n\nHealth & Social Care Trusts already have processes in place to prioritise patients who are identified as having palliative and end of life care needs for home care packages and equipment.\n\nIt is acknowledged, however, that patients may not always be identified as having palliative and end of life care needs and as a result referrals to services may not be channelled through the appropriate urgent or fast-tracked processes. I also acknowledge there can be variability in how these arrangements operate across different Trust areas and timeliness of delivery can be subject to wider local capacity and availability constraints.\n\nTimely access to appropriate support services including equipment and community care plays a critical role in maintaining patient dignity and reducing avoidable distress for both patients and their families.\n\nWhile there is currently no regionally formalised fast‑track protocol for palliative and end of life care patients, the mechanisms already in place at local level are reflected in current policy direction and service development work, including efforts to improve identification of palliative and end of life care patients and strengthen community-based provision for those with advanced illness through the Neighbourhood Health model.\n\nMy Department will continue to engage with HSC Trusts and partners including the independent hospice sector to explore opportunities to enhance existing pathways and ensure that services are equitable and aligned with best practice in palliative and end‑of‑life care","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of ensuring that individuals receiving palliative and end‑of‑life care are supported with appropriate care in a timely manner. Following the relevant assessments, a range of mechanisms exist across Health and Social Care services to prioritise patients with urgent and complex needs, including those with palliative and end of life care needs.
Health & Social Care Trusts already have processes in place to prioritise patients who are identified as having palliative and end of life care needs for home care packages and equipment.
It is acknowledged, however, that patients may not always be identified as having palliative and end of life care needs and as a result referrals to services may not be channelled through the appropriate urgent or fast-tracked processes. I also acknowledge there can be variability in how these arrangements operate across different Trust areas and timeliness of delivery can be subject to wider local capacity and availability constraints.
Timely access to appropriate support services including equipment and community care plays a critical role in maintaining patient dignity and reducing avoidable distress for both patients and their families.
While there is currently no regionally formalised fast‑track protocol for palliative and end of life care patients, the mechanisms already in place at local level are reflected in current policy direction and service development work, including efforts to improve identification of palliative and end of life care patients and strengthen community-based provision for those with advanced illness through the Neighbourhood Health model.
My Department will continue to engage with HSC Trusts and partners including the independent hospice sector to explore opportunities to enhance existing pathways and ensure that services are equitable and aligned with best practice in palliative and end‑of‑life care
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048559%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489938","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489938"}},{"id":"489726","reference":"AQW 48475/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-11","answerBy":"2026-06-26","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) whether any assessment has been made of the economic and social impact of rural crime on farm businesses, rural communities and farm succession planning, particularly in light of reports that some farmers have altered their farming practices or considered leaving the industry as a result of repeated criminal activity; and (ii) whether his Department has considered any additional support, prevention or resilience measures for affected farmers.","answerText":"The latest ‘Agriculture and Rural Crime’ Bulletin published by the PSNI indicates that in the 12 months from 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2026 there were 205 agricultural crimes recorded in Northern Ireland, an increase of 4 on the previous 12 months. This is one of the lowest twelve month figures for agricultural crimes since the data series began in 2010/11. The ‘Rural Crime Report 2026’ published by NFU Mutual estimates rural crime cost for Northern Ireland during 2025 at £2.2 million based on its claim statistics. This is an increase of 24% on 2024 figures. I appreciate that in both cases, these statistics on levels of crime are based on reported incidents and that there are likely unreported incidents not captured by these figures.\n\nIn terms of additional support, prevention or resilience measures for affected farmers, whilst responsibility for crime policy rests with the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the detection and investigation of rural crime is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board I fully recognise the impact that crime can have on rural communities and on those who live and work within them.\n\nDAERA takes the threat of rural crime very seriously and remains committed to contributing to a coordinated, cross departmental response.\n\nMy Department continues to work closely with DoJ, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and other partners to better understand the specific challenges faced by rural communities in relation to crime.\n\nMy officials participate in the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which provides an important forum for engagement with a wide range of organisations.\n\nThe Partnership supports networking, information sharing and problem solving, helping partners to better understand the experiences of those affected by rural crime and to deliver a focused programme of work to address it. Actions in relation to crime rates are discussed and partners collaborate on solutions.","answerHtml":"The latest ‘Agriculture and Rural Crime’ Bulletin published by the PSNI indicates that in the 12 months from 1st April 2025 to 31st March 2026 there were 205 agricultural crimes recorded in Northern Ireland, an increase of 4 on the previous 12 months. This is one of the lowest twelve month figures for agricultural crimes since the data series began in 2010/11. The ‘Rural Crime Report 2026’ published by NFU Mutual estimates rural crime cost for Northern Ireland during 2025 at £2.2 million based on its claim statistics. This is an increase of 24% on 2024 figures. I appreciate that in both cases, these statistics on levels of crime are based on reported incidents and that there are likely unreported incidents not captured by these figures.
In terms of additional support, prevention or resilience measures for affected farmers, whilst responsibility for crime policy rests with the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the detection and investigation of rural crime is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board I fully recognise the impact that crime can have on rural communities and on those who live and work within them.
DAERA takes the threat of rural crime very seriously and remains committed to contributing to a coordinated, cross departmental response.
My Department continues to work closely with DoJ, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and other partners to better understand the specific challenges faced by rural communities in relation to crime.
My officials participate in the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which provides an important forum for engagement with a wide range of organisations.
The Partnership supports networking, information sharing and problem solving, helping partners to better understand the experiences of those affected by rural crime and to deliver a focused programme of work to address it. Actions in relation to crime rates are discussed and partners collaborate on solutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048475%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489726"}},{"id":"489725","reference":"AQW 48474/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-11","answerBy":"2026-06-26","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number of reported incidents of (a) livestock theft; (b) agricultural vehicle theft; and (c) quad bike theft, that were recorded in each of the last five years; (ii) what proportion resulted in a (a) charge; and (b) summons; and (iii) whether she has made any assessment of whether current detection and prosecution rates act as an effective deterrent to rural crime.","answerText":"In relation to parts (i) and (ii) of the question, the recording of information on incidents or crimes reported to police, as well as on persons subsequently charged, is a matter for the Chief Constable. You may, therefore, wish to direct any further query relating to the numbers of livestock theft, agricultural vehicle theft and quad bike theft incidents, to the PSNI.\n\nIn relation to part (iii), my Department works closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to monitor trends in rural crime and the effectiveness of enforcement activity. While no specific formal assessment has been undertaken on detection and prosecution rates as a deterrent, it is widely recognised that visible policing activity, effective investigation, and successful prosecutions all contribute to deterrence.\n\nThe Joint Agency Task Force (JATF), which was established following ‘A Fresh Start’ - the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan’ in 2015 provides a strong strategic and operational framework for law enforcement agencies to work collaboratively to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime, including rural crime. The JATF is led by senior officers from the PSNI and An Garda Síochána with representation from other law enforcement agencies. The JATF enables partners to exchange information and intelligence and undertake ongoing joint operational activity, including dedicated Days of Action. It has conducted a number of successful operations, including in relation to rural crime. These have been highlighted in its most recent published biannual report: Cross Border JATF Operational Report April 2025 to September 2025, which is available online.\n\nIn addition, the Cross Border Policing Strategy 2025 – 2027, between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána, supports collaboration and co-operation between the two organisations in tackling cross-border criminality.","answerHtml":"In relation to parts (i) and (ii) of the question, the recording of information on incidents or crimes reported to police, as well as on persons subsequently charged, is a matter for the Chief Constable. You may, therefore, wish to direct any further query relating to the numbers of livestock theft, agricultural vehicle theft and quad bike theft incidents, to the PSNI.
In relation to part (iii), my Department works closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) to monitor trends in rural crime and the effectiveness of enforcement activity. While no specific formal assessment has been undertaken on detection and prosecution rates as a deterrent, it is widely recognised that visible policing activity, effective investigation, and successful prosecutions all contribute to deterrence.
The Joint Agency Task Force (JATF), which was established following ‘A Fresh Start’ - the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan’ in 2015 provides a strong strategic and operational framework for law enforcement agencies to work collaboratively to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime, including rural crime. The JATF is led by senior officers from the PSNI and An Garda Síochána with representation from other law enforcement agencies. The JATF enables partners to exchange information and intelligence and undertake ongoing joint operational activity, including dedicated Days of Action. It has conducted a number of successful operations, including in relation to rural crime. These have been highlighted in its most recent published biannual report: Cross Border JATF Operational Report April 2025 to September 2025, which is available online.
In addition, the Cross Border Policing Strategy 2025 – 2027, between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána, supports collaboration and co-operation between the two organisations in tackling cross-border criminality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048474%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489725"}},{"id":"489724","reference":"AQW 48473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-11","answerBy":"2026-06-26","answered":"2026-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) whether she has considered the establishment of a dedicated rural crime strategy, similar to approaches adopted elsewhere in the United Kingdom; and (ii) to detail any discussions that have taken place with the (a) PSNI; (b) the National Rural Crime Unit; (c) the Rural Crime Partnership; and (d) relevant stakeholders, regarding specialist rural crime resources, intelligence gathering and prevention initiatives.","answerText":"I recognise the distinct challenges posed by crime in rural communities. While there is currently no standalone rural crime strategy, my officials continue to engage with a range of partners on issues relating to rural crime, including via the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), the Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) and the Joint Agency Task Force (JATF).\n\nOutside organisations, including the National Rural Crime Unit, are regularly invited to present at RCP meetings to share information and best practices with stakeholders.\n\nWhilst I do not have any immediate plans to introduce a rural crime strategy I\n\nhave asked my officials to raise this issue at the next RCP meeting to consider the existing position and, if necessary, identify measures which would strengthen protections in this area.","answerHtml":"I recognise the distinct challenges posed by crime in rural communities. While there is currently no standalone rural crime strategy, my officials continue to engage with a range of partners on issues relating to rural crime, including via the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), the Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) and the Joint Agency Task Force (JATF).
Outside organisations, including the National Rural Crime Unit, are regularly invited to present at RCP meetings to share information and best practices with stakeholders.
Whilst I do not have any immediate plans to introduce a rural crime strategy I
have asked my officials to raise this issue at the next RCP meeting to consider the existing position and, if necessary, identify measures which would strengthen protections in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489724"}},{"id":"489723","reference":"AQW 48472/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-11","answerBy":"2026-06-26","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) whether her Department has assessed the extent to which organised criminal gangs and cross-border criminality are contributing to increases in (a) livestock theft; (b) agricultural machinery theft; and (c) quad bike theft; and (ii) to detail any dedicated (a) operations; (b) intelligence-sharing arrangements; and (c) joint working initiatives, currently in place with An Garda Síochána and other law enforcement partners, to address these offences.","answerText":"As the Department does not hold any data on the crime types listed, no specific assessment has been made. However, I can confirm that there are robust mechanisms in place to enable law enforcement agencies to tackle all criminality from organised crime groups, including on a cross-border basis.\n\nThe Joint Agency Task Force (JATF) was established following ‘A Fresh Start’ - the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan’ in 2015. It provides a strong strategic and operational framework for law enforcement agencies to work collaboratively to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime, including rural crime. The JATF is led by senior officers from the PSNI and An Garda Síochána with representation from other law enforcement agencies. The JATF enables partners to exchange information and intelligence and undertake ongoing joint operational activity, including dedicated Days of Action.\n\nI receive a report on the JATF operations at the Ministerial meetings under the auspices of the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) on Co-operation on Criminal Justice Matters. I then provide an oral or written statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly on JATF and the wider work relating to the IGA.\n\nIn addition, the Cross Border Policing Strategy 2025 - 2027 between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána supports collaboration and co-operation between the two organisations in tackling cross-border criminality.","answerHtml":"As the Department does not hold any data on the crime types listed, no specific assessment has been made. However, I can confirm that there are robust mechanisms in place to enable law enforcement agencies to tackle all criminality from organised crime groups, including on a cross-border basis.
The Joint Agency Task Force (JATF) was established following ‘A Fresh Start’ - the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan’ in 2015. It provides a strong strategic and operational framework for law enforcement agencies to work collaboratively to tackle cross-jurisdictional organised crime, including rural crime. The JATF is led by senior officers from the PSNI and An Garda Síochána with representation from other law enforcement agencies. The JATF enables partners to exchange information and intelligence and undertake ongoing joint operational activity, including dedicated Days of Action.
I receive a report on the JATF operations at the Ministerial meetings under the auspices of the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) on Co-operation on Criminal Justice Matters. I then provide an oral or written statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly on JATF and the wider work relating to the IGA.
In addition, the Cross Border Policing Strategy 2025 - 2027 between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána supports collaboration and co-operation between the two organisations in tackling cross-border criminality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048472%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489723"}},{"id":"489722","reference":"AQW 48471/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-11","answerBy":"2026-06-26","answered":"2026-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether (i) any assessment has been made of NFU Mutual's Rural Crime Report 2025, which found that the estimated cost of rural crime in Northern Ireland increased by 24 per cent to £2.2 million while the overall UK-wide cost decreased by 6 per cent; and (ii) her Department has identified any factors that may explain why Northern Ireland is moving in the opposite direction to the wider UK trend.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the findings of the most recent Rural Crime Report, published by NFU Mutual, which indicated that the estimated cost of rural crime in Northern Ireland increased by approximately 24 per cent in 2025, to around £2.2 million.\n\nFurther information received from NFU Mutual confirms that they have seen the total number of agri-theft claims in Northern Ireland decrease slightly in the past two years, and part of the increase in cost is down to inflation of machinery value along with an increase in livestock theft claims.\n\nWhile this report is based on insurance claims data rather than police-recorded crime, it nevertheless highlights the impact of rural crime on farming and rural communities. It also reinforces evidence of the links between rural theft and organised criminality.\n\nA collaborative, multi-agency approach underpins efforts to tackle crime across Northern Ireland, including rural and agricultural crime. My Department chairs the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which brings together a range of key stakeholders, including the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), and Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs).\n\nThe RCP facilitates the exchange of information on emerging and ongoing trends, supporting a coordinated and preventative approach to addressing rural crime. Partners also undertake public engagement activity, including through social media channels, to raise awareness and promote reporting. My Department has also supported initiatives such as Rural Crime Week NI, led by the PSNI, which seeks to highlight the issues facing rural communities and signpost available advice and support.\n\nMore broadly, joint working between law enforcement agencies is supported through established mechanisms such as the Joint Agency Task Force (JATF), where rural crime is identified as one of six strategic priorities. The JATF provides a structured framework for both strategic and operational collaboration, including between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána, particularly in tackling cross-border organised crime.\n\nAt a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) —jointly funded by the Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board—play an important role in building community confidence and addressing rural crime concerns. Through engagement with local communities, PCSPs help to identify priorities and deliver practical, targeted interventions. These include equipment and trailer marking initiatives, crime prevention events, school engagement, and outreach to farming groups, all of which contribute to enhancing rural safety. These measures have contributed to an overall downward trend in recorded rural and agricultural crime.\n\nWhile these partnership arrangements are key to prevention and coordination, responsibility for the deployment of policing resources, including the investigation of rural and agricultural crime, vandalism and organised crime rests with the Chief Constable of the PSNI, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. Accordingly, you may also wish to raise this matter directly with the PSNI.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the findings of the most recent Rural Crime Report, published by NFU Mutual, which indicated that the estimated cost of rural crime in Northern Ireland increased by approximately 24 per cent in 2025, to around £2.2 million.
Further information received from NFU Mutual confirms that they have seen the total number of agri-theft claims in Northern Ireland decrease slightly in the past two years, and part of the increase in cost is down to inflation of machinery value along with an increase in livestock theft claims.
While this report is based on insurance claims data rather than police-recorded crime, it nevertheless highlights the impact of rural crime on farming and rural communities. It also reinforces evidence of the links between rural theft and organised criminality.
A collaborative, multi-agency approach underpins efforts to tackle crime across Northern Ireland, including rural and agricultural crime. My Department chairs the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), which brings together a range of key stakeholders, including the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), and Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs).
The RCP facilitates the exchange of information on emerging and ongoing trends, supporting a coordinated and preventative approach to addressing rural crime. Partners also undertake public engagement activity, including through social media channels, to raise awareness and promote reporting. My Department has also supported initiatives such as Rural Crime Week NI, led by the PSNI, which seeks to highlight the issues facing rural communities and signpost available advice and support.
More broadly, joint working between law enforcement agencies is supported through established mechanisms such as the Joint Agency Task Force (JATF), where rural crime is identified as one of six strategic priorities. The JATF provides a structured framework for both strategic and operational collaboration, including between the PSNI and An Garda Síochána, particularly in tackling cross-border organised crime.
At a local level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) —jointly funded by the Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board—play an important role in building community confidence and addressing rural crime concerns. Through engagement with local communities, PCSPs help to identify priorities and deliver practical, targeted interventions. These include equipment and trailer marking initiatives, crime prevention events, school engagement, and outreach to farming groups, all of which contribute to enhancing rural safety. These measures have contributed to an overall downward trend in recorded rural and agricultural crime.
While these partnership arrangements are key to prevention and coordination, responsibility for the deployment of policing resources, including the investigation of rural and agricultural crime, vandalism and organised crime rests with the Chief Constable of the PSNI, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. Accordingly, you may also wish to raise this matter directly with the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489722"}},{"id":"489531","reference":"AQW 48361/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-10","answerBy":"2026-06-25","answered":"2026-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the average waiting times for (a) assessment; (b) approval; and (c) completion of, housing adaptations for people diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease; and (ii) whether his Department has carried out any assessment of whether the current process meets the needs of those living with rapidly progressing conditions.","answerText":"(i) (a,b,c) This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows: ‘We do not hold data on anyone’s medical condition, the information we get from the Health Trust is about the housing need to meet the persons need and it does not contain the medical diagnosis.’ Therefore, it is not possible to provide the information requested, as neither my Department nor the Northern Ireland Housing Executive holds data on applicants’ medical diagnoses.\n\n(ii) I recognise that there are exceptional cases, including those involving rapidly progressing conditions, where prioritisation may be appropriate, while ensuring fairness and equity across all applicants. The NIHE is currently piloting an accelerated process for delivering housing adaptations in such exceptional cases across all tenures. This pilot forms part of a wider review of NIHE-administered Private Sector Grants being led by my Department. The findings from this review will inform policy proposals, which I intend to bring forward for public consultation later this year.","answerHtml":"(i) (a,b,c) This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, they have advised me as follows: ‘We do not hold data on anyone’s medical condition, the information we get from the Health Trust is about the housing need to meet the persons need and it does not contain the medical diagnosis.’ Therefore, it is not possible to provide the information requested, as neither my Department nor the Northern Ireland Housing Executive holds data on applicants’ medical diagnoses.
(ii) I recognise that there are exceptional cases, including those involving rapidly progressing conditions, where prioritisation may be appropriate, while ensuring fairness and equity across all applicants. The NIHE is currently piloting an accelerated process for delivering housing adaptations in such exceptional cases across all tenures. This pilot forms part of a wider review of NIHE-administered Private Sector Grants being led by my Department. The findings from this review will inform policy proposals, which I intend to bring forward for public consultation later this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048361%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489531","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489531"}},{"id":"489280","reference":"AQW 48237/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-09","answerBy":"2026-06-24","answered":"2026-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration that has been given to the introduction of an expedited assessment and approval process for housing adaptations for people diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease, given the progressive nature of the condition and the associated limited life expectancy.","answerText":"I refer the member to AQW 37688/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to AQW 37688/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048237%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489280"}},{"id":"489279","reference":"AQW 48236/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-09","answerBy":"2026-06-24","answered":"2026-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he intends to review the rates treatment of Post Office services operating from within other commercial premises to ensure that businesses providing the same Post Office services are treated consistently for rates purposes.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my answer to AQW 48235/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my answer to AQW 48235/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048236%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489279"}},{"id":"489278","reference":"AQW 48235/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-09","answerBy":"2026-06-24","answered":"2026-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether any assessment has been made of the impact of current rates relief arrangements on the sustainability of Post Office services operating from within retail premises, particularly in rural communities.","answerText":"My Department undertook a review of Small Business Rate Relief during 2025/26 which looked at the relief provided through that mechanism, including the enhanced support already provided to Post Offices under the scheme.\n\nFollowing the review, and subsequent consultation which sought specific views on the nature of Post Offices support, including the position of retailers with a post office counter, I took the decision to set aside £10million in the draft budget for additional business support with a view to broadening and increasing the number of businesses supported under the scheme. These measures remain subject to completion of the Budget process and, if approved, will apply retrospectively.\n\nThat comes in addition to the current £22million of support provided to around 30,000 ratepayers under the SBRR scheme which I extended earlier this year. Within that scheme the most generous support is provided to Post Offices.","answerHtml":"My Department undertook a review of Small Business Rate Relief during 2025/26 which looked at the relief provided through that mechanism, including the enhanced support already provided to Post Offices under the scheme.
Following the review, and subsequent consultation which sought specific views on the nature of Post Offices support, including the position of retailers with a post office counter, I took the decision to set aside £10million in the draft budget for additional business support with a view to broadening and increasing the number of businesses supported under the scheme. These measures remain subject to completion of the Budget process and, if approved, will apply retrospectively.
That comes in addition to the current £22million of support provided to around 30,000 ratepayers under the SBRR scheme which I extended earlier this year. Within that scheme the most generous support is provided to Post Offices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048235%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489278"}},{"id":"489277","reference":"AQW 48234/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-09","answerBy":"2026-06-24","answered":"2026-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether Post Office services operating from within another commercial premises are eligible for the same rates reliefs as standalone Post Office branches.","answerText":"Standalone Post Office branches may qualify for enhanced Small Business Rate Relief under the current scheme where their NAV falls within the relevant thresholds. Post Office services provided within another commercial premises do not qualify for the enhanced relief available to standalone branches.\n\nHowever, Post Office properties operating within other commercial premises may still qualify for standard Small Business Rate Relief if their NAV does not exceed £15,000 and they are not excluded under the multiples rule, which applies where there are more than three properties.\n\nA link to details of the schemes is attached below:-\n\nSmall Business Rate Relief for small Post Offices\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/small-business-rate-relief-small-post-offices\n\nSmall Business Rate Relief\n\nwww.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/small-business-rate-relief","answerHtml":"Standalone Post Office branches may qualify for enhanced Small Business Rate Relief under the current scheme where their NAV falls within the relevant thresholds. Post Office services provided within another commercial premises do not qualify for the enhanced relief available to standalone branches.
However, Post Office properties operating within other commercial premises may still qualify for standard Small Business Rate Relief if their NAV does not exceed £15,000 and they are not excluded under the multiples rule, which applies where there are more than three properties.
A link to details of the schemes is attached below:-
Small Business Rate Relief for small Post Offices
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/small-business-rate-relief-small-post-offices
Small Business Rate Relief
www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/small-business-rate-relief
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048234%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=489277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=489277"}},{"id":"488957","reference":"AQW 48107/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether any assessment has been made of the potential impact of TransformED on the delivery of creative subjects, including art, music, drama and design.","answerText":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.\n\nThe curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.\n\nCreative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.\n\nPhased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.","answerHtml":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.
The new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.
The curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.
Creative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.
Phased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048107%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488957"}},{"id":"488956","reference":"AQW 48106/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration given within TransformED to the skills requirements of creative industries, including the development of creativity, communication, performance, production and design skills.","answerText":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.\n\nThe curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.\n\nCreative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.\n\nPhased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.","answerHtml":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.
The new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.
The curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.
Creative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.
Phased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048106%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488956"}},{"id":"488955","reference":"AQW 48105/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any measures that will be used to assess the impact of TransformED on pupils’ creativity, confidence, communication skills and wider personal development, in addition to academic attainment.","answerText":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.\n\nThe curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.\n\nCreative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.\n\nPhased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.","answerHtml":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.
The new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.
The curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.
Creative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.
Phased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048105%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488955"}},{"id":"488954","reference":"AQW 48104/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has assessed the potential impact of TransformED on the time available within the curriculum for creative and expressive subjects.","answerText":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.\n\nThe curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.\n\nCreative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.\n\nPhased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.","answerHtml":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.
The new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.
The curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.
Creative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.
Phased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048104%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488954","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488954"}},{"id":"488953","reference":"AQW 48103/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-08","answerBy":"2026-06-23","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any organisations representing the arts, creative industries, drama, music and cultural sectors which have been consulted during the development of TransformED; and (ii) any issues raised through this engagement.","answerText":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.\n\nThe curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.\n\nCreative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.\n\nPhased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.","answerHtml":"TransformED is a broad programme of education reform encompassing curriculum, qualifications, assessment, school improvement, tackling educational disadvantage and teacher professional learning. The programme has been informed by extensive engagement, including calls for evidence, stakeholder engagement, surveys and formal consultation. Given the breadth of the programme, it is not possible to provide a comprehensive account of issues raised by individual sectors across all areas of reform.
The new Northern Ireland Curriculum 2028 significantly strengthens pupils' entitlement to creative disciplines through detailed, structured and sequenced subject frameworks. While decisions on curriculum time remain a matter for schools, the new curriculum provides a clearer statutory entitlement to learning in subjects such as art and design, music and drama than is currently available.
The curriculum capabilities identify creativity and imagination, language and communication, physical health and wellbeing, and social and civic participation as key capabilities that emerge from engagement with a knowledge-rich curriculum. It explicitly recognises the contribution of music, art and design, drama and literature to the development of these capabilities. Creativity, confidence, communication, empathy and civic participation are therefore recognised as important outcomes of education, although the framework is clear that capabilities should not be directly assessed, tracked or audited.
Creative subjects are given enhanced prominence within the new curriculum. From Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, pupils benefit from clearly defined progression, specified knowledge and a stronger guarantee of access to high-quality creative learning.
Phased implementation, supported by high-quality curriculum resources and professional learning, will help schools deliver the new curriculum effectively while ensuring that creative subjects remain an integral part of every pupil's educational experience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048103%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488953"}},{"id":"488441","reference":"AQW 47878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any arrangements in place to support young people diagnosed with ADHD in childhood following their transition to adult services, including arrangements for clinical oversight and medication monitoring.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.\n\nThere is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.\n\nAll Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.\n\nThe Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.
There is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.
All Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.
The Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488441"}},{"id":"488440","reference":"AQW 47877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether each Health and Social Care Trust has a formal pathway for the transition of young people diagnosed with ADHD in childhood, who require ongoing medication and clinical support into adulthood.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.\n\nThere is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.\n\nAll Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.\n\nThe Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.
There is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.
All Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.
The Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488440"}},{"id":"488439","reference":"AQW 47876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the effectiveness of existing arrangements for the transition of young people with ADHD from children's to adult services.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.\n\nThere is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.\n\nAll Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.\n\nThe Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.
There is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.
All Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.
The Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488439"}},{"id":"488438","reference":"AQW 47875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any arrangements are in place where a young person diagnosed with ADHD in childhood requires ongoing medication following their transition to adult services, but their General Practitioner does not enter into a shared care arrangement.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488438"}},{"id":"488437","reference":"AQW 47874/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-04","answerBy":"2026-06-19","answered":"2026-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures that are in place to ensure continuity of ADHD medication for young people who require ongoing treatment during the transition from children's to adult services.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.\n\nThere is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.\n\nAll Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.\n\nThe Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the importance of safe and effective transition arrangements for young people with ADHD as they move from Children to Adult Services, particularly where ongoing medication and clinical support are required.
There is currently no commissioned Adult ADHD Service in Northern Ireland and, as such, no formally agreed regional transition pathway. In the absence of a standardised pathway, some limited provision has evolved over time in response to demand and in a manner, which has been dependent upon resources and clinical expertise within each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Existing provision is variable and subject to extensive waiting lists.
All Health and Social Care Trusts have local arrangements in place to support continuity of care for individuals diagnosed in childhood who require ongoing medication, typically through psychiatric review within Adult Services. Adults presenting with comorbid mental health needs may also be assessed within existing Adult Mental Health Services where clinical thresholds are met.
The Department of Health recently published the ADHD Needs Assessment Report on 12 February 2026 which included consideration of current service arrangements and identified a need to develop a standardised pathway based on best practice to promote the smooth transition of young people to Adult Services. Officials are now considering options for future implementation of the report recommendations. Any future commissioning will be subject to resource availability and wider budgetary considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047874%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=488437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=488437"}},{"id":"487905","reference":"AQW 47641/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any consideration is being given to providing additional funding to domiciliary care providers to cover staff travel time between calls.","answerText":"I recognise the vital role that homecare staff play in supporting people to live independently, and that travel time between calls is a key part of their working day. However, given the significant financial constraints my Department is currently facing, and in the absence of an agreed budget, I am not in a position to provide additional funding specifically for this purpose.\n\nThe homecare tariff is primarily based on direct labour costs, with allowance for overheads. I have approved interim 2026/27 uplifts to support independent sector social care providers with a range of cost pressures. My Department continues to engage with the sector, including through the Fair Work Forum, to consider wider improvements to terms and conditions and the long-term sustainability of social care.","answerHtml":"I recognise the vital role that homecare staff play in supporting people to live independently, and that travel time between calls is a key part of their working day. However, given the significant financial constraints my Department is currently facing, and in the absence of an agreed budget, I am not in a position to provide additional funding specifically for this purpose.
The homecare tariff is primarily based on direct labour costs, with allowance for overheads. I have approved interim 2026/27 uplifts to support independent sector social care providers with a range of cost pressures. My Department continues to engage with the sector, including through the Fair Work Forum, to consider wider improvements to terms and conditions and the long-term sustainability of social care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047641%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487905","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487905"}},{"id":"487904","reference":"AQW 47640/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people who are waiting for a domiciliary care package, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The number of people waiting on a homecare package are shown below as of 30th April 2026. My Department capture this information in relation to those waiting on a full package and those waiting on a part package of care:\n\nTRUST\tFULL PACKAGE OF CARE\tPART PACKAGE OF CARE\nBHSCT\t120\t298\nNHSCT\t427\t247\nSEHSCT\t52\t13\nSHSCT\t710\t41\nWHSCT\t424\t269\nTOTAL\t1,733\t868\n\nThere is variation across the sector due to a number of factors, such as; rurality, number of providers in an available area, availability on runs, increase in referrals, hand backs from providers who do not have enough staff to cover rotas, types or complexities of packages required for example, do individuals need assistance of 1 or 2 or more people/how many calls over how many days is required. Each of the HSC Trusts are doing pieces of work to review and improve delivery of homecare within their Trust. My Department is leading the work of the Social Care Collaborative Reform Board and part of that work includes the review and reform of homecare in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The number of people waiting on a homecare package are shown below as of 30th April 2026. My Department capture this information in relation to those waiting on a full package and those waiting on a part package of care:
| TRUST | FULL PACKAGE OF CARE | PART PACKAGE OF CARE |
| BHSCT | 120 | 298 |
| NHSCT | 427 | 247 |
| SEHSCT | 52 | 13 |
| SHSCT | 710 | 41 |
| WHSCT | 424 | 269 |
| TOTAL | 1,733 | 868 |
There is variation across the sector due to a number of factors, such as; rurality, number of providers in an available area, availability on runs, increase in referrals, hand backs from providers who do not have enough staff to cover rotas, types or complexities of packages required for example, do individuals need assistance of 1 or 2 or more people/how many calls over how many days is required. Each of the HSC Trusts are doing pieces of work to review and improve delivery of homecare within their Trust. My Department is leading the work of the Social Care Collaborative Reform Board and part of that work includes the review and reform of homecare in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047640%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487904","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487904"}},{"id":"487903","reference":"AQW 47639/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact of rurality on the delivery of domiciliary care services.","answerText":"My Department recognises that rurality can present particular challenges in the delivery of homecare services, including issues relating to travel time, workforce availability, and service accessibility.\n\nWhile a single, standalone assessment specifically focused on rurality has not been undertaken, my Department and HSC Trusts routinely consider the impact of geography and population distribution as part of broader service planning, commissioning, and workforce analysis. These considerations are reflected in regional strategies, including the provision of care closer to home and the transformation agenda for adult social care.\n\nHSC Trusts take account of the additional time and resource implications associated with delivering care in rural areas, including increased travel distances and reduced economies of scale. Measures such as flexible scheduling, enhanced mileage arrangements, and the use of local care teams are employed to mitigate these challenges wherever possible.\n\nOn the 23 June 2026 my Department wrote to the HSC Trusts to inform them of an additional uplift to the 26/27-hourly rate paid to independent sector providers. The total uplift is a 4.36% increase in the hourly rate paid in 25/26. My hope is that this will encourage more people to be attracted to work in the homecare sector.\n\nThe Department continues to engage with stakeholders, including providers and representative bodies, to better understand the pressures facing homecare services, particularly in rural communities. Work is ongoing to stabilise and reform the homecare sector, including efforts to improve workforce recruitment and retention, which are critical factors in ensuring equitable service provision across both urban and rural areas.\n\nI remain committed to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of where they live, have access to safe, effective, and high-quality homecare services.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises that rurality can present particular challenges in the delivery of homecare services, including issues relating to travel time, workforce availability, and service accessibility.
While a single, standalone assessment specifically focused on rurality has not been undertaken, my Department and HSC Trusts routinely consider the impact of geography and population distribution as part of broader service planning, commissioning, and workforce analysis. These considerations are reflected in regional strategies, including the provision of care closer to home and the transformation agenda for adult social care.
HSC Trusts take account of the additional time and resource implications associated with delivering care in rural areas, including increased travel distances and reduced economies of scale. Measures such as flexible scheduling, enhanced mileage arrangements, and the use of local care teams are employed to mitigate these challenges wherever possible.
On the 23 June 2026 my Department wrote to the HSC Trusts to inform them of an additional uplift to the 26/27-hourly rate paid to independent sector providers. The total uplift is a 4.36% increase in the hourly rate paid in 25/26. My hope is that this will encourage more people to be attracted to work in the homecare sector.
The Department continues to engage with stakeholders, including providers and representative bodies, to better understand the pressures facing homecare services, particularly in rural communities. Work is ongoing to stabilise and reform the homecare sector, including efforts to improve workforce recruitment and retention, which are critical factors in ensuring equitable service provision across both urban and rural areas.
I remain committed to ensuring that all individuals, regardless of where they live, have access to safe, effective, and high-quality homecare services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047639%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487903"}},{"id":"487902","reference":"AQW 47638/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the financial viability of domiciliary care contracts, in light of rising fuel, vehicle maintenance and staffing costs.","answerText":"I recognise the vital contribution that homecare providers make to the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of vulnerable people across Northern Ireland and acknowledge the challenges that rising fuel costs and wider cost pressures have created.\n\nThe Social Care Fair Work Forum was established in October 2021 and aims to embed Fair Work initiatives and enhance terms and conditions for all employees across the social care sector, supporting the development of a sustainable workforce.\n\nOfficials are engaged in ongoing discussions with the sector on a number of issues including pressures within the independent sector, the Real Living Wage, supply, recruitment and retention of the health and social care workforce, and the wider sustainability of the social care system.\n\nIn recognition of these pressures, approval was provided in advance of April 2026 for the application of interim 2026/27 uplifts by Trusts to independent sector social care providers. These uplifts include additional funding to reflect support for the increase in National Living Wage from April 2026, a 2% uplift for non-pay inflation and some additional support for the increase in Employers National Insurance to support independent sector providers with a range of cost pressures.\n\nIn addition, my Department published a 10-year Strategic Plan and associated 3-year initial Delivery Plan on 23 March 2026 to reform adult social care, which includes a commitment to undertake an economic appraisal of the fair cost of adult social care to inform rates of payment and the sustainability of services.\n\nHowever, given the financial constraints my Department is facing, and in the absence of an agreed budget, there are limited options to provide additional financial support at this time, although this position will be kept under review.","answerHtml":"I recognise the vital contribution that homecare providers make to the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of vulnerable people across Northern Ireland and acknowledge the challenges that rising fuel costs and wider cost pressures have created.
The Social Care Fair Work Forum was established in October 2021 and aims to embed Fair Work initiatives and enhance terms and conditions for all employees across the social care sector, supporting the development of a sustainable workforce.
Officials are engaged in ongoing discussions with the sector on a number of issues including pressures within the independent sector, the Real Living Wage, supply, recruitment and retention of the health and social care workforce, and the wider sustainability of the social care system.
In recognition of these pressures, approval was provided in advance of April 2026 for the application of interim 2026/27 uplifts by Trusts to independent sector social care providers. These uplifts include additional funding to reflect support for the increase in National Living Wage from April 2026, a 2% uplift for non-pay inflation and some additional support for the increase in Employers National Insurance to support independent sector providers with a range of cost pressures.
In addition, my Department published a 10-year Strategic Plan and associated 3-year initial Delivery Plan on 23 March 2026 to reform adult social care, which includes a commitment to undertake an economic appraisal of the fair cost of adult social care to inform rates of payment and the sustainability of services.
However, given the financial constraints my Department is facing, and in the absence of an agreed budget, there are limited options to provide additional financial support at this time, although this position will be kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047638%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487902"}},{"id":"487901","reference":"AQW 47637/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-02","answerBy":"2026-06-17","answered":"2026-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps that are being taken to improve recruitment and retention within the domiciliary care workforce.","answerText":"I recognise that recruitment and retention challenges within the domiciliary care workforce remain significant and are central to the wider pressures facing the social care system.\n\nWorkforce sustainability is therefore a key priority within my Department’s reform agenda. Through the Reforming Adult Social Care and Support 10 Year Strategic Plan and associated Delivery Plan, we are taking forward a programme of work focused on improving job quality, strengthening career pathways and moving away from rigid time and task models that place pressure on staff.\n\nI have also committed to the introduction of the Real Living Wage for social care workers, recognising that fair pay is an important factor in supporting recruitment and retention, alongside wider work through the Fair Work Forum to improve terms and conditions across the sector.\n\nIn addition, my officials continue to engage with Trusts and providers to support more flexible deployment of staff and to target recruitment efforts, particularly in hard to cover areas.","answerHtml":"I recognise that recruitment and retention challenges within the domiciliary care workforce remain significant and are central to the wider pressures facing the social care system.
Workforce sustainability is therefore a key priority within my Department’s reform agenda. Through the Reforming Adult Social Care and Support 10 Year Strategic Plan and associated Delivery Plan, we are taking forward a programme of work focused on improving job quality, strengthening career pathways and moving away from rigid time and task models that place pressure on staff.
I have also committed to the introduction of the Real Living Wage for social care workers, recognising that fair pay is an important factor in supporting recruitment and retention, alongside wider work through the Fair Work Forum to improve terms and conditions across the sector.
In addition, my officials continue to engage with Trusts and providers to support more flexible deployment of staff and to target recruitment efforts, particularly in hard to cover areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047637%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487901"}},{"id":"487592","reference":"AQW 47517/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-01","answerBy":"2026-06-16","answered":"2026-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any assessment has been made of the impact of private rented sector affordability on demand for social housing.","answerText":"Affordability pressures in the private rented sector, alongside constrained supply, can contribute to increased demand for social housing.\n\nTo help address affordability challenges, I introduced legislation to limit rent increases to once every 12 months, with a three-month notice period.\n\nI am taking forward a range of measures to increase the supply of affordable homes across all tenures in Northern Ireland, as this is key to improving long-term affordability. To achieve this, I have established a 15-year Executive Housing Supply Strategy, which includes building more social homes.","answerHtml":"Affordability pressures in the private rented sector, alongside constrained supply, can contribute to increased demand for social housing.
To help address affordability challenges, I introduced legislation to limit rent increases to once every 12 months, with a three-month notice period.
I am taking forward a range of measures to increase the supply of affordable homes across all tenures in Northern Ireland, as this is key to improving long-term affordability. To achieve this, I have established a 15-year Executive Housing Supply Strategy, which includes building more social homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047517%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487592"}},{"id":"487591","reference":"AQW 47516/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-01","answerBy":"2026-06-16","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any assessment has been made of the effectiveness of the Housing Supply Strategy in reducing housing stress and homelessness, since its publication.","answerText":"It is intended that a first assessment of progress against the Housing Supply Strategy indicators will be undertaken at the conclusion of the first Action Plan period. The timing of this will be confirmed subject to Executive agreement of the Action Plan.","answerHtml":"It is intended that a first assessment of progress against the Housing Supply Strategy indicators will be undertaken at the conclusion of the first Action Plan period. The timing of this will be confirmed subject to Executive agreement of the Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047516%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487591"}},{"id":"487590","reference":"AQW 47515/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-01","answerBy":"2026-06-16","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any progress made in implementing the recommendations arising from the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations.","answerText":"The Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations is now in its final phase. Ten of the twenty proposals have been implemented to date. The remaining scheme changes will take effect at the closure of the project, which is currently planned for April 2027.","answerHtml":"The Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations is now in its final phase. Ten of the twenty proposals have been implemented to date. The remaining scheme changes will take effect at the closure of the project, which is currently planned for April 2027.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047515%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487590","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487590"}},{"id":"487589","reference":"AQW 47514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-01","answerBy":"2026-06-16","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions taken to reduce the number of households with Full Duty Applicant status awaiting permanent accommodation, in the last 12 months.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“Allocations were made to 5,943 applicants in the 12-month period 01/04/2025 – 31/03/2026 of which 5,683 were to applicants with Full Duty Applicant status. This equates to 95.6% of all allocations.\n\nThe Housing Executive continues to work closely with the Department for Communities, housing associations and other stakeholders to maximise the delivery of new social housing in line with the available budget. A total of 1,765 new social housing starts, and 1,538 new social housing completions were confirmed in the 2025/26 year. There are over 6,100 new social homes currently under construction across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Homelessness Strategy 2022–27 sets out the Housing Executive’s commitment to prioritising homelessness prevention, focusing on providing the right support at the right time to avoid homelessness wherever possible. This approach is supported by the Homelessness Prevention Fund, which targets those at greatest risk of housing instability and supports early, practical interventions. Funding is directed toward initiatives that are most closely aligned with strategic prevention priorities and collaborative working.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“Allocations were made to 5,943 applicants in the 12-month period 01/04/2025 – 31/03/2026 of which 5,683 were to applicants with Full Duty Applicant status. This equates to 95.6% of all allocations.
The Housing Executive continues to work closely with the Department for Communities, housing associations and other stakeholders to maximise the delivery of new social housing in line with the available budget. A total of 1,765 new social housing starts, and 1,538 new social housing completions were confirmed in the 2025/26 year. There are over 6,100 new social homes currently under construction across Northern Ireland.
The Homelessness Strategy 2022–27 sets out the Housing Executive’s commitment to prioritising homelessness prevention, focusing on providing the right support at the right time to avoid homelessness wherever possible. This approach is supported by the Homelessness Prevention Fund, which targets those at greatest risk of housing instability and supports early, practical interventions. Funding is directed toward initiatives that are most closely aligned with strategic prevention priorities and collaborative working.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487589","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487589"}},{"id":"487588","reference":"AQW 47513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-06-01","answerBy":"2026-06-16","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any additional actions his Department plans to take in response to the social housing waiting list exceeding 50,000 households.","answerText":"I have been consistently clear that increased supply of homes of all tenures is the key to addressing our housing needs and reducing pressure on the waiting list. That is why this Executive committed to a long-term Housing Supply Strategy and agreed a PfG priority, to develop the actions needed to increase supply.\n\nWhile developing the first cross-Executive Supply Strategy Action Plan, I have continued work to deliver more social and affordable supply.\n\nIn the last financial year, I delivered the largest investment ever in the Social Housing Development Programme, and achieved 1,765 new social home starts, representing a 17% increase in delivery year-on-year. There are now over 6,000 new social homes under construction across Northern Ireland.\n\nHowever, delivery of new social homes in 26/27 to meet the target set in the Executive’s Programme for Government will be extremely challenging and highly dependent on sufficient budget being provided to my Department early in this financial year.\n\nIn terms of affordable housing, my Department has developed a new affordable (intermediate) rent product, which will initially deliver 300 such homes, as part of increasing the range of housing options available to people. I expect to award Financial Transaction Capital (FTC) loan funding to Maple & May shortly and will make an announcement soon with details on the funding package and the first delivery locations.\n\nI have also committed to £153 million of FTC funding to be provided to Co-Ownership helping 4,000 households buy their own home over the next four years, including 1,200 new build homes.\n\nI am fully focussed on the Supply Strategy’s ambition and remain committed to prioritising housing delivery and finding new solutions with the resources available to me. This Executive must also collectively demonstrate that it is serious about prioritising housing in its decision making and funding allocations.","answerHtml":"I have been consistently clear that increased supply of homes of all tenures is the key to addressing our housing needs and reducing pressure on the waiting list. That is why this Executive committed to a long-term Housing Supply Strategy and agreed a PfG priority, to develop the actions needed to increase supply.
While developing the first cross-Executive Supply Strategy Action Plan, I have continued work to deliver more social and affordable supply.
In the last financial year, I delivered the largest investment ever in the Social Housing Development Programme, and achieved 1,765 new social home starts, representing a 17% increase in delivery year-on-year. There are now over 6,000 new social homes under construction across Northern Ireland.
However, delivery of new social homes in 26/27 to meet the target set in the Executive’s Programme for Government will be extremely challenging and highly dependent on sufficient budget being provided to my Department early in this financial year.
In terms of affordable housing, my Department has developed a new affordable (intermediate) rent product, which will initially deliver 300 such homes, as part of increasing the range of housing options available to people. I expect to award Financial Transaction Capital (FTC) loan funding to Maple & May shortly and will make an announcement soon with details on the funding package and the first delivery locations.
I have also committed to £153 million of FTC funding to be provided to Co-Ownership helping 4,000 households buy their own home over the next four years, including 1,200 new build homes.
I am fully focussed on the Supply Strategy’s ambition and remain committed to prioritising housing delivery and finding new solutions with the resources available to me. This Executive must also collectively demonstrate that it is serious about prioritising housing in its decision making and funding allocations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047513%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487588","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487588"}},{"id":"487093","reference":"AQW 47284/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-28","answerBy":"2026-06-12","answered":"2026-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the proposals consulted on within Hospitals Creating a Network for Better Outcomes form part of a wider regional strategy in relation to the future configuration of emergency surgical services.","answerText":"The proposals for a Hospital Network in Northern Ireland are about how we can improve sustainability of hospital services and ultimately provide an assurance that none of our acute hospitals will close.\n\nSpecific changes to hospital services, for example general surgery, either have been, or will be, the subject of a separate consultation process led by the individual HSC Trust, or by my Department, through its programme of regional service reviews. In considering the future model for services, Trusts are required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change.\n\nProposals for Emergency General Surgery (EGS) at Trust level will be informed by patient safety standards set out in Review of General Surgery (2022). These standards represent best clinical practice, are based on available evidence, and must be in place in hospitals receiving EGS patients to ensure safe outcomes for patients through the delivery of high quality, sustainable and equitable care.\n\nThe findings of the Hospital Network consultation along with my Department’s response are to be published shortly.","answerHtml":"The proposals for a Hospital Network in Northern Ireland are about how we can improve sustainability of hospital services and ultimately provide an assurance that none of our acute hospitals will close.
Specific changes to hospital services, for example general surgery, either have been, or will be, the subject of a separate consultation process led by the individual HSC Trust, or by my Department, through its programme of regional service reviews. In considering the future model for services, Trusts are required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change.
Proposals for Emergency General Surgery (EGS) at Trust level will be informed by patient safety standards set out in Review of General Surgery (2022). These standards represent best clinical practice, are based on available evidence, and must be in place in hospitals receiving EGS patients to ensure safe outcomes for patients through the delivery of high quality, sustainable and equitable care.
The findings of the Hospital Network consultation along with my Department’s response are to be published shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047284%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487093"}},{"id":"487092","reference":"AQW 47283/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-28","answerBy":"2026-06-12","answered":"2026-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has undertaken any assessment of the cumulative impact on rural patients of the reduction or centralisation of emergency surgical services.","answerText":"Specific changes to hospital services, either have been, or will be, the subject of a separate consultation process led by the individual HSC Trust or by my Department through its programme of regional service reviews. In considering the future model for services, Trusts are required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change. No service change decision can be taken outside of this established governance and assurance processes.\n\nSome proposals to change or withdraw a service will be determined to be major and/or controversial. In such instances approval by my Department is required.","answerHtml":"Specific changes to hospital services, either have been, or will be, the subject of a separate consultation process led by the individual HSC Trust or by my Department through its programme of regional service reviews. In considering the future model for services, Trusts are required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change. No service change decision can be taken outside of this established governance and assurance processes.
Some proposals to change or withdraw a service will be determined to be major and/or controversial. In such instances approval by my Department is required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047283%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487092"}},{"id":"487091","reference":"AQW 47282/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-28","answerBy":"2026-06-12","answered":"2026-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any formal assessment has been undertaken regarding the impact that longer travel times to emergency surgery services may have on patient outcomes in rural areas.","answerText":"Patient safety and delivery of sustainable services is my Department’s priority and was at the forefront of the Review of General Surgery. The Review provided standards for Emergency General Surgery (EGS) which represent best clinical practice, are based on available evidence, and must be in place in hospitals receiving EGS patients to ensure safe outcomes for patients through the delivery of high quality, sustainable and equitable care.\n\nA rural impact assessment was conducted as part of the Review of General Surgery and can be found here https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-rna-review-general-surgery.pdf\n\nTrust specific proposals on the configuration of emergency general surgical services must be taken in line with the Change & Withdrawal of Services Guidance and include the necessary impact assessments including consideration of rural needs.","answerHtml":"Patient safety and delivery of sustainable services is my Department’s priority and was at the forefront of the Review of General Surgery. The Review provided standards for Emergency General Surgery (EGS) which represent best clinical practice, are based on available evidence, and must be in place in hospitals receiving EGS patients to ensure safe outcomes for patients through the delivery of high quality, sustainable and equitable care.
A rural impact assessment was conducted as part of the Review of General Surgery and can be found here https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-rna-review-general-surgery.pdf
Trust specific proposals on the configuration of emergency general surgical services must be taken in line with the Change & Withdrawal of Services Guidance and include the necessary impact assessments including consideration of rural needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047282%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487091"}},{"id":"487090","reference":"AQW 47281/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-28","answerBy":"2026-06-12","answered":"2026-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether his Department intends to publish a long term strategy in relation to the future configuration of regional acute hospital services, including Causeway Hospital and South West Acute Hospital; and (ii) to detail any consideration that has been given within that work to equitable access to emergency care for rural and geographically-isolated communities.","answerText":"My Department has consulted on proposals for a Hospital Network in Northern Ireland. At its heart, this work is about how we can improve sustainability of hospital services and ultimately provide an assurance that none of our acute hospitals will close. I have been clear that every hospital is needed and Causeway Hospital and the South-West Acute Hospital will continue to have a crucial role in providing appropriate care to our population. We must also recognise that the health needs of our population are constantly evolving. We therefore also need a dynamic approach to maintaining our health and social care services.\n\nSpecific changes to hospital services, either have been, or will be, the subject of a separate consultation process led by the individual HSC Trust or by my Department through its programme of regional service reviews. In considering the future model for services, Trusts are required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change. No service change decision can be taken outside of this established governance and assurance processes.\n\nSome proposals to change or withdraw a service will be determined to be major and/or controversial. In such instances approval by my Department is required.\n\nA Rural Needs Impact Assessment screening was consulted on in draft as part of the consultation on proposals for a Hospital Network and was further amended with mitigations to reflect the feedback received.\n\nThe findings of the Hospital Network consultation along with my Department’s response including the revised Equality and Rural Needs impact assessment screenings are to be published shortly.","answerHtml":"My Department has consulted on proposals for a Hospital Network in Northern Ireland. At its heart, this work is about how we can improve sustainability of hospital services and ultimately provide an assurance that none of our acute hospitals will close. I have been clear that every hospital is needed and Causeway Hospital and the South-West Acute Hospital will continue to have a crucial role in providing appropriate care to our population. We must also recognise that the health needs of our population are constantly evolving. We therefore also need a dynamic approach to maintaining our health and social care services.
Specific changes to hospital services, either have been, or will be, the subject of a separate consultation process led by the individual HSC Trust or by my Department through its programme of regional service reviews. In considering the future model for services, Trusts are required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change. No service change decision can be taken outside of this established governance and assurance processes.
Some proposals to change or withdraw a service will be determined to be major and/or controversial. In such instances approval by my Department is required.
A Rural Needs Impact Assessment screening was consulted on in draft as part of the consultation on proposals for a Hospital Network and was further amended with mitigations to reflect the feedback received.
The findings of the Hospital Network consultation along with my Department’s response including the revised Equality and Rural Needs impact assessment screenings are to be published shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487090","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487090"}},{"id":"487089","reference":"AQW 47280/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-28","answerBy":"2026-06-12","answered":"2026-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) when he intends to publish the outcome and decisions arising from the public consultation Hospitals Creating a Network for Better Outcomes, which closed in February 2025; and (ii) the rationale for the delay in publishing the outcome.","answerText":"I published the report of the findings of the public consultation on ‘Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes’ on 3 September 2026. The report is available on the Department’s website at www.health-ni.gov.uk/consultations/hospitals-creating-network-better-outcomes-public-consultation The consultation received approximately 30,000 responses. It took some time to analyse and consider these.\n\nIt is important to note that work to improve and reform our Health and Social Care System takes place continually and is not paused while consultation findings are being considered. Therefore, action has already been taken in a number of areas which are relevant to the findings of the consultation. These are set out in the final report.","answerHtml":"I published the report of the findings of the public consultation on ‘Hospitals – Creating a Network for Better Outcomes’ on 3 September 2026. The report is available on the Department’s website at www.health-ni.gov.uk/consultations/hospitals-creating-network-better-outcomes-public-consultation The consultation received approximately 30,000 responses. It took some time to analyse and consider these.
It is important to note that work to improve and reform our Health and Social Care System takes place continually and is not paused while consultation findings are being considered. Therefore, action has already been taken in a number of areas which are relevant to the findings of the consultation. These are set out in the final report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047280%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=487089","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=487089"}},{"id":"486790","reference":"AQW 47145/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-27","answerBy":"2026-06-11","answered":"2026-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any role public libraries will play in the National Year of Reading; (ii) any steps being taken to increase library engagement; and (iii) any support that will be provided for public libraries through the Heritage, Culture and Creativity Programme.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 47210/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 47210/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047145%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486790","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486790"}},{"id":"486789","reference":"AQW 47144/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-27","answerBy":"2026-06-11","answered":"2026-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) whether his Department is working with the Department of Education to strengthen links between public and school libraries; and (ii) any initiatives planned to encourage reading among children and young people.","answerText":"I refer the Member to AQW 47210/22-27","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to AQW 47210/22-27
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047144%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486789"}},{"id":"486788","reference":"AQW 47143/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-27","answerBy":"2026-06-11","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any plans his Department has to support the National Year of Reading; (ii) how the Literacy Framework will promote reading for pleasure; and (iii) any steps being taken to improve reading enjoyment among children and young people.","answerText":"Evidence shows that reading, writing and oracy are fundamental to children’s learning and long-term outcomes. Strong Foundations, my Department’s Literacy Framework, places these core skills at the centre of efforts to raise standards for all learners and promotes reading for pleasure as part of a strong whole-school literacy culture.\n\nThe Department is supporting the National Literacy Trust’s work during the National Year of Reading to strengthen reading culture and improve access to books across Northern Ireland. I spoke at the launch of the National Year of Reading and at the opening of a school library funded by the Trust. My officials have also engaged with the Department for Education in England on a pilot linked to the campaign. In addition, the Department regularly shares the Trust’s communications and resources with schools and has recorded a webinar for the DE website on reading for pleasure, delivered by the Trust’s Northern Ireland representative. Together, these actions are helping to champion the National Year of Reading by widening access to books, promoting reading for pleasure and supporting a stronger reading culture in schools.\n\nBy embedding this work within wider, long-term literacy improvement, the Department is helping to ensure that the impact of the National Year of Reading extends beyond 2026 and leaves a sustained legacy of stronger literacy and greater enjoyment of reading.","answerHtml":"Evidence shows that reading, writing and oracy are fundamental to children’s learning and long-term outcomes. Strong Foundations, my Department’s Literacy Framework, places these core skills at the centre of efforts to raise standards for all learners and promotes reading for pleasure as part of a strong whole-school literacy culture.
The Department is supporting the National Literacy Trust’s work during the National Year of Reading to strengthen reading culture and improve access to books across Northern Ireland. I spoke at the launch of the National Year of Reading and at the opening of a school library funded by the Trust. My officials have also engaged with the Department for Education in England on a pilot linked to the campaign. In addition, the Department regularly shares the Trust’s communications and resources with schools and has recorded a webinar for the DE website on reading for pleasure, delivered by the Trust’s Northern Ireland representative. Together, these actions are helping to champion the National Year of Reading by widening access to books, promoting reading for pleasure and supporting a stronger reading culture in schools.
By embedding this work within wider, long-term literacy improvement, the Department is helping to ensure that the impact of the National Year of Reading extends beyond 2026 and leaves a sustained legacy of stronger literacy and greater enjoyment of reading.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047143%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486788"}},{"id":"486787","reference":"AQW 47142/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-27","answerBy":"2026-06-11","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) whether any assessment has been made of research indicating that 41 per cent of primary schools do not have a library; (ii) any plans in place to improve access to library spaces in primary schools; and (iii) whether implementation of the Literacy Framework will include support for school libraries.","answerText":"The Department is aware of the 2022 research published by the National Literacy Trust which highlights variation in access to dedicated library spaces in primary schools. No specific departmental assessment of this independent research has been undertaken. Neither the Department nor the Education Authority holds a register of library provision in individual schools and therefore does not hold comprehensive data on this issue.\n\nThe Education Authority provides a statutory Education Library Service which supports schools through advice on library development, professional learning and access to resources, including book purchasing. Decisions on how best to provide access to books and support reading, including whether to maintain a dedicated library space, are matters for individual schools, having regard to their accommodation, resources and wider needs. The existing approach provides flexibility for schools to determine the most appropriate arrangements within their setting.","answerHtml":"The Department is aware of the 2022 research published by the National Literacy Trust which highlights variation in access to dedicated library spaces in primary schools. No specific departmental assessment of this independent research has been undertaken. Neither the Department nor the Education Authority holds a register of library provision in individual schools and therefore does not hold comprehensive data on this issue.
The Education Authority provides a statutory Education Library Service which supports schools through advice on library development, professional learning and access to resources, including book purchasing. Decisions on how best to provide access to books and support reading, including whether to maintain a dedicated library space, are matters for individual schools, having regard to their accommodation, resources and wider needs. The existing approach provides flexibility for schools to determine the most appropriate arrangements within their setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047142%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486787"}},{"id":"486786","reference":"AQW 47141/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-27","answerBy":"2026-06-11","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps being taken to ensure the National Year of Reading leaves a long term legacy beyond 2026.","answerText":"Evidence shows that reading, writing and oracy are fundamental to children’s learning and long-term outcomes. Strong Foundations, my Department’s Literacy Framework, places these core skills at the centre of efforts to raise standards for all learners and promotes reading for pleasure as part of a strong whole-school literacy culture.\n\nThe Department is supporting the National Literacy Trust’s work during the National Year of Reading to strengthen reading culture and improve access to books across Northern Ireland. I spoke at the launch of the National Year of Reading and at the opening of a school library funded by the Trust. My officials have also engaged with the Department for Education in England on a pilot linked to the campaign. In addition, the Department regularly shares the Trust’s communications and resources with schools and has recorded a webinar for the DE website on reading for pleasure, delivered by the Trust’s Northern Ireland representative. Together, these actions are helping to champion the National Year of Reading by widening access to books, promoting reading for pleasure and supporting a stronger reading culture in schools.\n\nBy embedding this work within wider, long-term literacy improvement, the Department is helping to ensure that the impact of the National Year of Reading extends beyond 2026 and leaves a sustained legacy of stronger literacy and greater enjoyment of reading.","answerHtml":"Evidence shows that reading, writing and oracy are fundamental to children’s learning and long-term outcomes. Strong Foundations, my Department’s Literacy Framework, places these core skills at the centre of efforts to raise standards for all learners and promotes reading for pleasure as part of a strong whole-school literacy culture.
The Department is supporting the National Literacy Trust’s work during the National Year of Reading to strengthen reading culture and improve access to books across Northern Ireland. I spoke at the launch of the National Year of Reading and at the opening of a school library funded by the Trust. My officials have also engaged with the Department for Education in England on a pilot linked to the campaign. In addition, the Department regularly shares the Trust’s communications and resources with schools and has recorded a webinar for the DE website on reading for pleasure, delivered by the Trust’s Northern Ireland representative. Together, these actions are helping to champion the National Year of Reading by widening access to books, promoting reading for pleasure and supporting a stronger reading culture in schools.
By embedding this work within wider, long-term literacy improvement, the Department is helping to ensure that the impact of the National Year of Reading extends beyond 2026 and leaves a sustained legacy of stronger literacy and greater enjoyment of reading.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047141%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486786"}},{"id":"486547","reference":"AQW 47034/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-26","answerBy":"2026-06-10","answered":"2026-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) any level of additional funding provided to support communities impacted by racist abuse and attacks in Ballymena; and (ii) any action their Department and relevant bodies have taken to publish and promote accessible, evidence based information to challenge false narratives around migration, housing, welfare, employment and access to public services.","answerText":"We have provided a range of funding to support communities impacted by last year’s unrest in Ballymena; this includes:\n\n£15,000 to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to develop and maintain a Community Hub programme.\n\n£226k under the District Council Good Relations Programme (2025/26) to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, including £50k of additional in year funding to help tackle issues around Racial and Social Cohesion.\n\nWe recognise the importance of accurate information to avoid misconceptions and ensure informed discussions around the provision of services. The Community Cohesion Group is developing communication proposals aimed at addressing false narratives and encouraging positive attitudes to shared community life for all.","answerHtml":"We have provided a range of funding to support communities impacted by last year’s unrest in Ballymena; this includes:
£15,000 to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council to develop and maintain a Community Hub programme.
£226k under the District Council Good Relations Programme (2025/26) to Mid and East Antrim Borough Council, including £50k of additional in year funding to help tackle issues around Racial and Social Cohesion.
We recognise the importance of accurate information to avoid misconceptions and ensure informed discussions around the provision of services. The Community Cohesion Group is developing communication proposals aimed at addressing false narratives and encouraging positive attitudes to shared community life for all.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047034%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486547","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486547"}},{"id":"486546","reference":"AQW 47033/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-26","answerBy":"2026-06-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) any actions agreed to develop more effective regional and local emergency response plans for any future racially-motivated disorder; and (ii) how this work will involve local communities, councils, statutory agencies and minority ethnic groups.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047033%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486546"}},{"id":"486545","reference":"AQW 47032/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-26","answerBy":"2026-06-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) any role played by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group in the response to racially-motivated disorder in Ballymena; and (ii) any actions agreed with the Executive Office to ensure a clear and unified response to any future racist attacks.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047032%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486545"}},{"id":"486544","reference":"AQW 47031/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-26","answerBy":"2026-06-10","answered":"2026-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any engagement they, or their officials, had with representatives of the black and ethnic minority community in Ballymena (i) in the immediate aftermath of the racially-motivated disorder; and (ii) between July 2025 and April 2026, including (a) groups involved; (ii) issues raised; and (c) any actions agreed.","answerText":"In the immediate aftermath of the disorder, we met with the Racial Equality Subgroup (RES) as the voice of minority ethnic communities to government. Its membership includes Inter Ethnic Forum (IEF), based in Ballymena, which played a key role in supporting those impacted. The meeting notes are available on our website.\n\nOur officials also met with IEF in their premises in Ballymena to see firsthand the impact and worked closely with their colleagues in the Department of Education and the Education Authority, alongside representatives from schools in Ballymena, to ensure support for young people affected.\n\nAdditionally, they have been leading the work of the multi-agency Community Cohesion Group to develop preventative and early interventions to address the root causes.\n\nThese are nearing completion and we expect to consider proposals imminently.","answerHtml":"In the immediate aftermath of the disorder, we met with the Racial Equality Subgroup (RES) as the voice of minority ethnic communities to government. Its membership includes Inter Ethnic Forum (IEF), based in Ballymena, which played a key role in supporting those impacted. The meeting notes are available on our website.
Our officials also met with IEF in their premises in Ballymena to see firsthand the impact and worked closely with their colleagues in the Department of Education and the Education Authority, alongside representatives from schools in Ballymena, to ensure support for young people affected.
Additionally, they have been leading the work of the multi-agency Community Cohesion Group to develop preventative and early interventions to address the root causes.
These are nearing completion and we expect to consider proposals imminently.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047031%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486544"}},{"id":"486543","reference":"AQW 47030/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-26","answerBy":"2026-06-10","answered":"2026-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, in relation to the cross-departmental emergency Community Cohesion Group established following the racially-motivated disorder in Ballymena, to detail (i) any terms of reference; (ii) each Department, agency; and body, that is represented; and (iii) any specific actions it has taken to support affected communities, including the black and minority ethnic community.","answerText":"Emergency response structures, led by PSNI, were activated in response to the June 2025 unrest with a focus on stopping the violence and supporting the immediate needs of those impacted.\n\nThe cross-organisational Community Cohesion Group was subsequently established and led by our Department to identify and develop targeted interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of tension and encourage shared community life. These are being finalised for consideration and are likely to include Community Hubs in outlets across all Councils, orientation, building relationships and school/ youth programmes.\n\nThe Terms of Reference for the Group are at Annex A and the membership is at Annex B.\n\nAnnex A\n\nCOMMUNITY COHESION GROUP\n\nStrategic Aim\n\nThe aim of the group is to maintain situational awareness and operational preparedness, while coordinating work to address the underlying root causes of race related community tensions, and build cohesive and inclusive societies where people feel safe, respected and valued.\n\nStrategic Objectives\n\nCommunity Confidence - support and reassure minority and majority communities and ensure that communities feel their voice is being heard, enhancing and building community confidence by coordinating appropriate support when and where it is needed.\n\nRoot Causes – identify underlying causes of community tension and develop a programme of actions to mitigate and build positive behaviours.\n\nEffective Communications - inform and reassure the public through timely and effective communication, with coordinated and consistent messaging to combat misinformation and disinformation and ‘myth bust’, as well as long term proactive ‘hearts and minds’ initiatives.\n\nDelivery\n\nThe Group will deliver the strategic aim and objectives by ensuring a coordinated approach which supports multiagency information sharing, working and collaboration, to build community cohesion.\n\nAnnex B\n\nCOMMUNITY COHESION GROUP MEMBERSHIP\n\nAntrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council\nMid and East Antrim Borough Council\nThe Executive Office (TEO)\nArds and North Down Borough Council\nFermanagh and Omagh District Council\nHome Office (HO)\nPolice Service Northern Ireland (PSNI)\nNorthern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE)\nDepartment of Education (DE)\nHealth and Social Care Northern Ireland (HSCNI)\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council\nDepartment of Justice (DoJ)\nNewry Mourne and Down District Council\nBelfast City Council\nDerry City and Strabane District Council\nNorthern Ireland Office (NIO)\nDepartment for Infrastructure (DfI)\nEducation Authority (EA)\nMid Ulster District Council","answerHtml":"Emergency response structures, led by PSNI, were activated in response to the June 2025 unrest with a focus on stopping the violence and supporting the immediate needs of those impacted.
The cross-organisational Community Cohesion Group was subsequently established and led by our Department to identify and develop targeted interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of tension and encourage shared community life. These are being finalised for consideration and are likely to include Community Hubs in outlets across all Councils, orientation, building relationships and school/ youth programmes.
The Terms of Reference for the Group are at Annex A and the membership is at Annex B.
Annex A
COMMUNITY COHESION GROUP
Strategic Aim
The aim of the group is to maintain situational awareness and operational preparedness, while coordinating work to address the underlying root causes of race related community tensions, and build cohesive and inclusive societies where people feel safe, respected and valued.
Strategic Objectives
Community Confidence - support and reassure minority and majority communities and ensure that communities feel their voice is being heard, enhancing and building community confidence by coordinating appropriate support when and where it is needed.
Root Causes – identify underlying causes of community tension and develop a programme of actions to mitigate and build positive behaviours.
Effective Communications - inform and reassure the public through timely and effective communication, with coordinated and consistent messaging to combat misinformation and disinformation and ‘myth bust’, as well as long term proactive ‘hearts and minds’ initiatives.
Delivery
The Group will deliver the strategic aim and objectives by ensuring a coordinated approach which supports multiagency information sharing, working and collaboration, to build community cohesion.
Annex B
COMMUNITY COHESION GROUP MEMBERSHIP
| Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council |
| Mid and East Antrim Borough Council |
| The Executive Office (TEO) |
| Ards and North Down Borough Council |
| Fermanagh and Omagh District Council |
| Home Office (HO) |
| Police Service Northern Ireland (PSNI) |
| Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) |
| Department of Education (DE) |
| Health and Social Care Northern Ireland (HSCNI) |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council |
| Department of Justice (DoJ) |
| Newry Mourne and Down District Council |
| Belfast City Council |
| Derry City and Strabane District Council |
| Northern Ireland Office (NIO) |
| Department for Infrastructure (DfI) |
| Education Authority (EA) |
| Mid Ulster District Council |
I, along with my officials, continue to engage with all Higher Education Institutions regarding the Department’s extremely challenging financial position. I will continue to seek additional resources to invest in Higher Education and I trust I will have the support of all Ministers in that regard.
A wider Review of Higher Education Funding is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046923%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486317","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486317"}},{"id":"486316","reference":"AQW 46922/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-22","answerBy":"2026-06-09","answered":"2026-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department has considered the provision of additional grant support to Ulster University, following its announcement of proposed staffing reductions.","answerText":"Like all Departments, the Department for the Economy’s finances are extremely challenging. I continue to seek additional resources for my Department, so that we can increase funding for Higher and Further Education.","answerHtml":"Like all Departments, the Department for the Economy’s finances are extremely challenging. I continue to seek additional resources for my Department, so that we can increase funding for Higher and Further Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046922%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486316"}},{"id":"486315","reference":"AQW 46921/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-22","answerBy":"2026-06-09","answered":"2026-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any engagement her Department has had with (a) Ulster University; and (b) Queen’s University Belfast, in the last 12 months, regarding their financial sustainability; (ii) any financial support or funding adjustments that have been requested by universities in that period, including any response that has been provided by her Department.","answerText":"I, along with my officials, continue to engage with all Higher Education Institutions regarding the Department’s extremely challenging financial position. Within the context of the findings emerging from the independent Financial Needs Assessment and the development of draft Terms of Reference for the wider Review of Higher Education Funding, officials have engaged with both universities on a range of issues, including matters relating to financial sustainability.\n\nI will continue to seek additional resources to invest in Higher Education and I trust I will have the support of all political parties in that regard.","answerHtml":"I, along with my officials, continue to engage with all Higher Education Institutions regarding the Department’s extremely challenging financial position. Within the context of the findings emerging from the independent Financial Needs Assessment and the development of draft Terms of Reference for the wider Review of Higher Education Funding, officials have engaged with both universities on a range of issues, including matters relating to financial sustainability.
I will continue to seek additional resources to invest in Higher Education and I trust I will have the support of all political parties in that regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046921%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486315"}},{"id":"486314","reference":"AQW 46920/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-22","answerBy":"2026-06-09","answered":"2026-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any assessment that has been made of the potential impact on reoffending rates and community safety, if pilot prisoner support projects for short-sentence prisoners with complex needs are not continued; and (ii) any alternative provision that has been identified for this cohort.","answerText":"As with all those in receipt of grant funding, the Northern Ireland Prison Service monitors the Prisoner Support Project pilot through quarterly report cards and regular review meetings. In addition, an independent evaluation by Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) has been commissioned by the provider of the project, which examines outcomes including changes in offending behaviour, offences committed during participation and returns to custody.\n\nWhile the high-level outcomes of this assessment are positive, further analysis is required to fully assess the impact the project has had, including its potential contribution to reducing returns to custody, alleviating prison population pressures and assessing overall value for money. Once this analysis has been completed, consideration will be given to further provision required for short-term prisoners.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Prison Service continually works to enhance resettlement provision to those in our care, including for individuals serving short sentences.\n\nA reduction in support may reduce the effectiveness of current rehabilitation activity and may contribute to higher levels of reoffending and recall. In turn, this could have adverse implications for community safety, as well as increasing pressures on prison capacity and wider justice services.","answerHtml":"As with all those in receipt of grant funding, the Northern Ireland Prison Service monitors the Prisoner Support Project pilot through quarterly report cards and regular review meetings. In addition, an independent evaluation by Queen’s University Belfast (QUB) has been commissioned by the provider of the project, which examines outcomes including changes in offending behaviour, offences committed during participation and returns to custody.
While the high-level outcomes of this assessment are positive, further analysis is required to fully assess the impact the project has had, including its potential contribution to reducing returns to custody, alleviating prison population pressures and assessing overall value for money. Once this analysis has been completed, consideration will be given to further provision required for short-term prisoners.
The Northern Ireland Prison Service continually works to enhance resettlement provision to those in our care, including for individuals serving short sentences.
A reduction in support may reduce the effectiveness of current rehabilitation activity and may contribute to higher levels of reoffending and recall. In turn, this could have adverse implications for community safety, as well as increasing pressures on prison capacity and wider justice services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046920%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486314"}},{"id":"486313","reference":"AQW 46919/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-22","answerBy":"2026-06-09","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) whether her Department plans to provide or facilitate funding opportunities for pilot prisoner support projects, beyond June 2026; and (ii) when organisations currently delivering these projects can expect clarity on funding for 2026–27, to allow for service planning.","answerText":"As a budget for 2026/27 has yet to be agreed, I am unable to confirm full allocations for rehabilitation and resettlement interventions. In the interim, to avoid disruption to services which support safe resettlement and reduce reoffending, NIPS has put arrangements in place to allow existing providers to continue delivery until the end of June 2026.\n\nI have asked officials to prioritise early decisions on funding allocations and to notify delivery partners as soon as possible once a budget is confirmed. I recognise the importance of providing certainty to organisations currently delivering these projects to support service planning and continuity.","answerHtml":"As a budget for 2026/27 has yet to be agreed, I am unable to confirm full allocations for rehabilitation and resettlement interventions. In the interim, to avoid disruption to services which support safe resettlement and reduce reoffending, NIPS has put arrangements in place to allow existing providers to continue delivery until the end of June 2026.
I have asked officials to prioritise early decisions on funding allocations and to notify delivery partners as soon as possible once a budget is confirmed. I recognise the importance of providing certainty to organisations currently delivering these projects to support service planning and continuity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046919%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486313"}},{"id":"486084","reference":"AQW 46810/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any assessment been made on how any forthcoming or proposed changes to sentencing legislation will impact the prison population; and (ii) any discussions she has had with her Executive colleagues regarding the funding and resourcing required to manage current and projected pressures within the prison estate.","answerText":"In terms of financial effects, it is my intention and expectation that the Criminal Justice (Sentencing Etc.) Bill as a whole will primarily be delivered within existing resources.\n\nCertain provisions in the bill have the potential to result in longer custodial sentences being imposed in relation to particular offences:\n\nIn Part 6, the new offence of assaulting a public worker will carry a maximum sentence on summary conviction of 12 months, whereas the current maximum for equivalent offences is 6 months. This increase may result in longer sentences being imposed where immediate custody is considered necessary, in cases prosecuted in the magistrates’ courts.\n\nPart 7, which provides for increases in the maximum penalties for offences of causing death by driving, is expected to result in longer custodial sentences being imposed. Given the small numbers of convictions for death by driving offences, it is not anticipated that these changes will have a discernible impact on the prison population.\n\nThe expansion of unduly lenient sentence arrangements to all sentences imposed in the Crown Court may result in a small number of increased sentences being imposed. Due to the very small anticipated increase in referrals this change is not expected to impact more than nominally on the prison population overall\n\nBy contrast, the following provisions may result in shorter custodial periods:\n\nPart 2, which provides a power for the court to include community requirements with suspended sentences, has the potential to slightly reduce the number of immediate custodial sentences imposed.\n\nPart 5, which introduces ‘Charlotte’s Law’, may lead to reductions in custodial periods where killers disclose information about how or where their victim’s remains were disposed of.\n\nI continue to highlight the Resource and Capital pressures faced by the DoJ in light of the Draft Budget allocations. These pressures include those of NI Prison Service, and I have continued to emphasise that extremely difficult decisions on prioritisation and service provision will be required. My officials and I continue to advocate for additional funding to ensure we have a Justice sector, including NIPS, that is funded appropriately both now and in the future.","answerHtml":"In terms of financial effects, it is my intention and expectation that the Criminal Justice (Sentencing Etc.) Bill as a whole will primarily be delivered within existing resources.
Certain provisions in the bill have the potential to result in longer custodial sentences being imposed in relation to particular offences:
In Part 6, the new offence of assaulting a public worker will carry a maximum sentence on summary conviction of 12 months, whereas the current maximum for equivalent offences is 6 months. This increase may result in longer sentences being imposed where immediate custody is considered necessary, in cases prosecuted in the magistrates’ courts.
Part 7, which provides for increases in the maximum penalties for offences of causing death by driving, is expected to result in longer custodial sentences being imposed. Given the small numbers of convictions for death by driving offences, it is not anticipated that these changes will have a discernible impact on the prison population.
The expansion of unduly lenient sentence arrangements to all sentences imposed in the Crown Court may result in a small number of increased sentences being imposed. Due to the very small anticipated increase in referrals this change is not expected to impact more than nominally on the prison population overall
By contrast, the following provisions may result in shorter custodial periods:
Part 2, which provides a power for the court to include community requirements with suspended sentences, has the potential to slightly reduce the number of immediate custodial sentences imposed.
Part 5, which introduces ‘Charlotte’s Law’, may lead to reductions in custodial periods where killers disclose information about how or where their victim’s remains were disposed of.
I continue to highlight the Resource and Capital pressures faced by the DoJ in light of the Draft Budget allocations. These pressures include those of NI Prison Service, and I have continued to emphasise that extremely difficult decisions on prioritisation and service provision will be required. My officials and I continue to advocate for additional funding to ensure we have a Justice sector, including NIPS, that is funded appropriately both now and in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046810%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486084"}},{"id":"486083","reference":"AQW 46809/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any engagement she has had with the judiciary, regarding current pressures on the prison population; and (ii) any assessment that has made of the extent to which awareness of prison capacity pressures is reflected in sentencing outcomes.","answerText":"I and officials in my Department engage regularly with the judiciary on a range of issues to ensure that they are fully apprised of high prison population and am confident that they are fully aware of the challenges that presents; however, in such engagement, I am bound to respect the independence and autonomy of the judiciary who make sentencing and remand decisions in accordance with the law, and the facts and evidence presented to the court.","answerHtml":"I and officials in my Department engage regularly with the judiciary on a range of issues to ensure that they are fully apprised of high prison population and am confident that they are fully aware of the challenges that presents; however, in such engagement, I am bound to respect the independence and autonomy of the judiciary who make sentencing and remand decisions in accordance with the law, and the facts and evidence presented to the court.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046809%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486083"}},{"id":"486082","reference":"AQW 46808/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any actions being taken to speed up the progression of cases through the courts; and (ii) whether any measurable improvement in case timelines has been identified to date, including the impact any measures will have on the prison population.","answerText":"The Speeding Up Justice Programme is a five-year programme of work, driven by Criminal Justice Board, aimed at reducing avoidable delay across the criminal justice system. The Programme is part of the Executive’s Programme for Government delivery, specifically with regard to the Safer Communities priority and underpinned by the Reform and Transformation of Public Services priority.\n\nThe Programme comprises five projects – Out of Court Disposals, Early Engagement, Committal Reform, Remit of the Magistrates’ Court and Digital. The Early Engagement and Out of Court Disposals projects are supported by £20.5m of transformation funding.\n\nOut of Court Disposals is advancing at pace and I hope to bring forward secondary legislation on this issue in the coming months that should see expanded powers for our police officers to deal with more low-level offences by way of Penalty Notices. This will help divert cases which involve lower-level offending away from prosecution through the courts, where they are currently attracting only monetary fines, and ensure that finite criminal justice resources are used effectively.\n\nBuilding on the first phase of Committal Reform, work is progressing on the next phase, direct committal, which I plan to implement later this year. This will allow the most serious cases to progress more quickly to the Crown Court.\n\nThis is supported by Early Engagement which is exploring opportunities for early engagement between police, prosecution and defence, so that cases move faster through the system. Work is progressing on a number of initiatives, including measures to improve file quality and taking the learning from the Better Case Management processes used in England and Wales.\n\nI am also progressing work on the Remit of the Magistrates’ Court project, which is exploring options to expand the jurisdiction of the magistrates’ courts, enabling cases to be handled in a more proportionate manner and helping to reduce backlogs within the court system.\n\nAll the projects will be supported by Digital initiatives which can also help make the projects more sustainable in the long term.\n\nTaken collectively the Programme should rebalance resources where lower-level offending will be dealt with outside formal court process, releasing much needed resources to deal with the most serious offences.\n\nPublished Northern Ireland case processing statistics show a slight improvement between 2023/24 and 2024/25, with the median time for criminal cases across all courts falling from 190 to 189 days. This is also down considerably from a height of 226 days in 2021/22. This change is driven mainly by quicker processing times in the magistrates’ courts. In the Crown Court, charge cases have improved slightly, but case processing times for cases proceeding by way of summons remain long. It will take time for the benefits of the Speeding Up Justice initiatives to embed and for they impact to be seen. Recent action by the Criminal Bar Association is likely to negatively impact on the Crown Court Caseload and this will be monitored closely.\n\nWhile decisions on remand are ultimately matters for the Judiciary, where cases take longer to progress through investigation, prosecution and court proceedings, there can be a corresponding impact on the remand population and on the length of time accused persons remain in custody before their case is concluded. Therefore, it is expected that as cases progress in a more timely manner, the remand population may fall. It is important to note that whilst remand population might fall, there may be a corresponding increase in sentenced population. On that basis, it is too early to determine what the impact on the prison population may be.","answerHtml":"The Speeding Up Justice Programme is a five-year programme of work, driven by Criminal Justice Board, aimed at reducing avoidable delay across the criminal justice system. The Programme is part of the Executive’s Programme for Government delivery, specifically with regard to the Safer Communities priority and underpinned by the Reform and Transformation of Public Services priority.
The Programme comprises five projects – Out of Court Disposals, Early Engagement, Committal Reform, Remit of the Magistrates’ Court and Digital. The Early Engagement and Out of Court Disposals projects are supported by £20.5m of transformation funding.
Out of Court Disposals is advancing at pace and I hope to bring forward secondary legislation on this issue in the coming months that should see expanded powers for our police officers to deal with more low-level offences by way of Penalty Notices. This will help divert cases which involve lower-level offending away from prosecution through the courts, where they are currently attracting only monetary fines, and ensure that finite criminal justice resources are used effectively.
Building on the first phase of Committal Reform, work is progressing on the next phase, direct committal, which I plan to implement later this year. This will allow the most serious cases to progress more quickly to the Crown Court.
This is supported by Early Engagement which is exploring opportunities for early engagement between police, prosecution and defence, so that cases move faster through the system. Work is progressing on a number of initiatives, including measures to improve file quality and taking the learning from the Better Case Management processes used in England and Wales.
I am also progressing work on the Remit of the Magistrates’ Court project, which is exploring options to expand the jurisdiction of the magistrates’ courts, enabling cases to be handled in a more proportionate manner and helping to reduce backlogs within the court system.
All the projects will be supported by Digital initiatives which can also help make the projects more sustainable in the long term.
Taken collectively the Programme should rebalance resources where lower-level offending will be dealt with outside formal court process, releasing much needed resources to deal with the most serious offences.
Published Northern Ireland case processing statistics show a slight improvement between 2023/24 and 2024/25, with the median time for criminal cases across all courts falling from 190 to 189 days. This is also down considerably from a height of 226 days in 2021/22. This change is driven mainly by quicker processing times in the magistrates’ courts. In the Crown Court, charge cases have improved slightly, but case processing times for cases proceeding by way of summons remain long. It will take time for the benefits of the Speeding Up Justice initiatives to embed and for they impact to be seen. Recent action by the Criminal Bar Association is likely to negatively impact on the Crown Court Caseload and this will be monitored closely.
While decisions on remand are ultimately matters for the Judiciary, where cases take longer to progress through investigation, prosecution and court proceedings, there can be a corresponding impact on the remand population and on the length of time accused persons remain in custody before their case is concluded. Therefore, it is expected that as cases progress in a more timely manner, the remand population may fall. It is important to note that whilst remand population might fall, there may be a corresponding increase in sentenced population. On that basis, it is too early to determine what the impact on the prison population may be.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046808%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486082"}},{"id":"486081","reference":"AQW 46807/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any assessment been made of the impact of recent disruption to barrister availability on the progression of criminal cases; (ii) whether this has contributed to delays at both pre-conviction and post-conviction stages of the justice process; and (iii) any impact these delays have had on the prison population, including (a) individuals held on remand; and (b) those awaiting sentencing or transfer following conviction.","answerText":"The Criminal Bar Association service withdrawal has had a significant impact and affected criminal cases at all stages. Management data indicates that, as of Friday 29 May 2026, 2121 cases, that is, 352 trials; 1316 arraignments; and 453 plea and sentencing hearings have been affected since the escalated withdrawal began on 5 January. Whilst it is not possible to determine the extent of the impact terms of the prisoner numbers, it is likely that there are individuals on remand and awaiting sentence who may otherwise have been released from prison. It is in their interest and the interests of the victims and witnesses affected that I have committed all possible resources, including commissioning an additional Accelerated Review of Criminal Legal Aid Fees, to end the unwarranted and unnecessary withdrawal. I hope it will result in a full return to service as there is no reason why the CBA, as with their solicitor colleagues, could not have continued to deliver services to their clients while efforts to address their concerns were ongoing.","answerHtml":"The Criminal Bar Association service withdrawal has had a significant impact and affected criminal cases at all stages. Management data indicates that, as of Friday 29 May 2026, 2121 cases, that is, 352 trials; 1316 arraignments; and 453 plea and sentencing hearings have been affected since the escalated withdrawal began on 5 January. Whilst it is not possible to determine the extent of the impact terms of the prisoner numbers, it is likely that there are individuals on remand and awaiting sentence who may otherwise have been released from prison. It is in their interest and the interests of the victims and witnesses affected that I have committed all possible resources, including commissioning an additional Accelerated Review of Criminal Legal Aid Fees, to end the unwarranted and unnecessary withdrawal. I hope it will result in a full return to service as there is no reason why the CBA, as with their solicitor colleagues, could not have continued to deliver services to their clients while efforts to address their concerns were ongoing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046807%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486081"}},{"id":"486080","reference":"AQW 46806/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-21","answerBy":"2026-06-08","answered":"2026-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the current number of prisoners being held on remand; (ii) the average length of time individuals are held on remand; and (iii) any assessment that has been made of the extent to which delays in the criminal justice system are contributing to these figures.","answerText":"On 1st May 2026, there were 916 prisoners being held on remand.\n\nThe latest available data indicates that the average time on remand for those discharged in 2025/26 was 104 days.\n\nWhile decisions on remand are ultimately matters for the Judiciary, where cases take longer to progress through investigation, prosecution and court proceedings, there can be a corresponding impact on the remand population and on the length of time accused persons remain in custody before their case is concluded. The Criminal Justice Board, the main strategic oversight group for the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland and whose members include the Minister, Permanent Secretary, Lady Chief Justice, the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Director of NICTS, has prioritised a new cross-justice programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay in the system. The Speeding Up Justice Programme aims to rebalance the justice system, ensuring that cases are dealt with in a proportionate way, and free up capacity to be directed towards more serious cases.\n\nNote:\n\nThe information provided parts (i) and (ii) is derived from PRISM, the Northern Ireland Prison Service management information system. An individual serving a custodial sentence, may also have had separate holding charges active in either a Magistrates and/or Crown Court. They are not classified on PRISM as 'remand' due to serving a custodial sentence. The average reported in part (ii) is based on time spent on remand for individuals discharged in 2025/26 who had spent at least one day on remand during their custodial period(s).","answerHtml":"On 1st May 2026, there were 916 prisoners being held on remand.
The latest available data indicates that the average time on remand for those discharged in 2025/26 was 104 days.
While decisions on remand are ultimately matters for the Judiciary, where cases take longer to progress through investigation, prosecution and court proceedings, there can be a corresponding impact on the remand population and on the length of time accused persons remain in custody before their case is concluded. The Criminal Justice Board, the main strategic oversight group for the criminal justice system in Northern Ireland and whose members include the Minister, Permanent Secretary, Lady Chief Justice, the Chief Constable of the Police Service of Northern Ireland, the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Director of NICTS, has prioritised a new cross-justice programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay in the system. The Speeding Up Justice Programme aims to rebalance the justice system, ensuring that cases are dealt with in a proportionate way, and free up capacity to be directed towards more serious cases.
Note:
The information provided parts (i) and (ii) is derived from PRISM, the Northern Ireland Prison Service management information system. An individual serving a custodial sentence, may also have had separate holding charges active in either a Magistrates and/or Crown Court. They are not classified on PRISM as 'remand' due to serving a custodial sentence. The average reported in part (ii) is based on time spent on remand for individuals discharged in 2025/26 who had spent at least one day on remand during their custodial period(s).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046806%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=486080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=486080"}},{"id":"485745","reference":"AQW 46690/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number of individuals leaving custody that were released without confirmed accommodation, in each of the last five years; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of this on reoffending and community safety.","answerText":"(i) The Prison Service Records Information System (PRISM) is used for the control and management of prisoners and records their latest address.\n\nThe information in the table below has been extracted from PRISM and details the number of prisoners released in each of the last five calendar years, along with the corresponding number and proportion recorded as having no fixed abode.\n\nYear\tPrisoners Released\tNumber of prisoners released recorded as no fixed abode\tPercentage of prisoners released recoded as no fixed abode\n2021\t2,569\t399\t16%\n2022\t2,877\t396\t14%\n2023\t3,191\t473\t15%\n2024\t3,170\t485\t15%\n2025\t3,387\t518\t15%\n\nSource: PRISM – Management Information\n\nNote: No fixed abode data is based on each prisoner’s latest recorded address on PRISM (data extracted on 27th January 2026)\n\n(ii) Information on the number of people leaving custody who reoffend specifically due to a lack of secure accommodation is difficult to capture.\n\nWhilst numbers of individuals who present to NIHE and apply for housing and homelessness assistance because they are leaving prison can be accessed, it is not possible to capture information for all those released from prison.\n\nThis is because the reason for homelessness is assessed by NIHE when an individual applies for homeless assistance: this assessment may have been completed prior to someone entering custody. Therefore, if an individual who has already been granted entitlement to homeless assistance by NIHE is released to no fixed abode, their reason for homelessness remains that of initial presentation.\n\nIn addition, individuals may not always disclose their full custodial history when requesting temporary accommodation and within the prison setting staff rely on individuals accurately self-reporting their housing situation, which makes it difficult to directly link accommodation outcomes with reoffending data.\n\nCross-government work is also progressing to develop a PfG-mandated strategy to reduce offending and reoffending. A Call for Views will shortly issue, which seeks views and evidence on factors that impact on reoffending, including stable housing. A Data Working Group has been established to develop a supporting Outcomes Measurement Framework that will assess the impact of a range of different actions on reoffending and community safety.","answerHtml":"(i) The Prison Service Records Information System (PRISM) is used for the control and management of prisoners and records their latest address.
The information in the table below has been extracted from PRISM and details the number of prisoners released in each of the last five calendar years, along with the corresponding number and proportion recorded as having no fixed abode.
| Year | Prisoners Released | Number of prisoners released recorded as no fixed abode | Percentage of prisoners released recoded as no fixed abode |
| 2021 | 2,569 | 399 | 16% |
| 2022 | 2,877 | 396 | 14% |
| 2023 | 3,191 | 473 | 15% |
| 2024 | 3,170 | 485 | 15% |
| 2025 | 3,387 | 518 | 15% |
Source: PRISM – Management Information
Note: No fixed abode data is based on each prisoner’s latest recorded address on PRISM (data extracted on 27th January 2026)
(ii) Information on the number of people leaving custody who reoffend specifically due to a lack of secure accommodation is difficult to capture.
Whilst numbers of individuals who present to NIHE and apply for housing and homelessness assistance because they are leaving prison can be accessed, it is not possible to capture information for all those released from prison.
This is because the reason for homelessness is assessed by NIHE when an individual applies for homeless assistance: this assessment may have been completed prior to someone entering custody. Therefore, if an individual who has already been granted entitlement to homeless assistance by NIHE is released to no fixed abode, their reason for homelessness remains that of initial presentation.
In addition, individuals may not always disclose their full custodial history when requesting temporary accommodation and within the prison setting staff rely on individuals accurately self-reporting their housing situation, which makes it difficult to directly link accommodation outcomes with reoffending data.
Cross-government work is also progressing to develop a PfG-mandated strategy to reduce offending and reoffending. A Call for Views will shortly issue, which seeks views and evidence on factors that impact on reoffending, including stable housing. A Data Working Group has been established to develop a supporting Outcomes Measurement Framework that will assess the impact of a range of different actions on reoffending and community safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046690%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485745","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485745"}},{"id":"485744","reference":"AQW 46689/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any engagement that takes place between her Department and the Department of Health, to ensure individuals leaving custody can access timely mental health and addiction services; and (ii) whether any gaps in provision have been identified.","answerText":"Officials from my Department engage with those in the Department of Health through membership of a number of groups at which discussions on mental health and addiction services are undertaken – these include the All Departments Officials Group, the Forensic Managed Care Network and the Substance Use Strategy Programme Board.\n\nSpecifically in relation to transitions from custody, a Task and Finish Group comprising representatives from the key justice and health organisations was set up in response to recommendation 16 of the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority report on the provision of services to vulnerable people detained in NI Prisons. A report detailing action required in order to improve outcomes for those leaving custody in terms of accessing health services was submitted to the Department of Health’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group for consideration, given its role in commissioning health services. Regrettably, due to prioritisation and funding issues within the Department of Health, action to progress the report has not been undertaken.\n\nIn the absence of progression by the Department of Health, and in order to meet a need identified in relation to short-sentenced prisoners, my Department undertook to fund a pilot programme through Extern. The Prisoner Support Project (PSP) pilot was established to support short-term prisoners to resettle safely in the community following release and to reduce the risk of immediate return to custody. Delivery begins within HMP Maghaberry through participation in the ‘Let’s Talk Programme’, where Extern staff operate “inside the gate” to identify risks and support resettlement planning pre-release. This is complemented by structure post-release support, with individuals receiving ongoing assistance, which includes supporting service users with engagement into specialist services for addiction and mental health, in order to manage and improve these identified areas of need.","answerHtml":"Officials from my Department engage with those in the Department of Health through membership of a number of groups at which discussions on mental health and addiction services are undertaken – these include the All Departments Officials Group, the Forensic Managed Care Network and the Substance Use Strategy Programme Board.
Specifically in relation to transitions from custody, a Task and Finish Group comprising representatives from the key justice and health organisations was set up in response to recommendation 16 of the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority report on the provision of services to vulnerable people detained in NI Prisons. A report detailing action required in order to improve outcomes for those leaving custody in terms of accessing health services was submitted to the Department of Health’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group for consideration, given its role in commissioning health services. Regrettably, due to prioritisation and funding issues within the Department of Health, action to progress the report has not been undertaken.
In the absence of progression by the Department of Health, and in order to meet a need identified in relation to short-sentenced prisoners, my Department undertook to fund a pilot programme through Extern. The Prisoner Support Project (PSP) pilot was established to support short-term prisoners to resettle safely in the community following release and to reduce the risk of immediate return to custody. Delivery begins within HMP Maghaberry through participation in the ‘Let’s Talk Programme’, where Extern staff operate “inside the gate” to identify risks and support resettlement planning pre-release. This is complemented by structure post-release support, with individuals receiving ongoing assistance, which includes supporting service users with engagement into specialist services for addiction and mental health, in order to manage and improve these identified areas of need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046689%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485744","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485744"}},{"id":"485743","reference":"AQW 46688/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any measures that are in place to ensure the safe management of prisoners with complex mental health needs; and (ii) whether any additional measures are under consideration, in light of increasing prison population pressures.","answerText":"(i)The responsibility for the provision of health services to people in prison in Northern Ireland transferred to the Department of Health in April 2008. The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (the Trust) is commissioned to provide primary, mental health and addictions services to people in prison custody in Northern Ireland.\n\nMany people come into prison with unmet or undiagnosed health and mental health needs, and for some their needs are complex. The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) works collaboratively with the Trust to manage and provide support for people with additional and complex needs across all three prison sites. Management of those with complex mental health needs is based upon the specific needs of the individual and is informed through multi-disciplinary caseloads and serious case reviews where required. Support for those with additional needs, including mental health issues, is provided through activities and access to therapeutic spaces.\n\n(ii)The Northern Ireland Prison Service continues to work with the Trust and voluntary and community sector organisations to provide prisoners with access to the appropriate support for them. Capacity within the Healthcare in Prison Team is a matter for the Department of Health.","answerHtml":"(i)The responsibility for the provision of health services to people in prison in Northern Ireland transferred to the Department of Health in April 2008. The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (the Trust) is commissioned to provide primary, mental health and addictions services to people in prison custody in Northern Ireland.
Many people come into prison with unmet or undiagnosed health and mental health needs, and for some their needs are complex. The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) works collaboratively with the Trust to manage and provide support for people with additional and complex needs across all three prison sites. Management of those with complex mental health needs is based upon the specific needs of the individual and is informed through multi-disciplinary caseloads and serious case reviews where required. Support for those with additional needs, including mental health issues, is provided through activities and access to therapeutic spaces.
(ii)The Northern Ireland Prison Service continues to work with the Trust and voluntary and community sector organisations to provide prisoners with access to the appropriate support for them. Capacity within the Healthcare in Prison Team is a matter for the Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046688%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485743"}},{"id":"485742","reference":"AQW 46687/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the proportion of the current prison population that is receiving mental health support or intervention services; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made on the sufficiency of the current provision to meet demand.","answerText":"On 26 May 2026, the Healthcare in Prison team within the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has confirmed that there were 169 individuals in prison on the caseload for the Mental Health Teams (8% of the prison population); 191 on the caseload for Psychiatry (9% of the prison population); and 53 on the caseload for Psychology (2.5% of the prison population). It should be noted that a patient can be on the caseload for multiple services. Additionally, there will be other patients who will see the GP for support with their mental health, based on a tiered approach. Data on this is not currently available.\n\nA Healthcare in Prison Mental Health Service Capacity and Capability Review, alongside a review of Psychological Services, was undertaken in 2023. In addition, a comprehensive Health Needs Assessment, focusing on mental health, addictions, and learning disability, is currently in the final stages of preparation. This assessment will provide commissioners with updated evidence, findings, and key considerations to help inform future services planning and the extent to which current provision meets demand.","answerHtml":"On 26 May 2026, the Healthcare in Prison team within the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has confirmed that there were 169 individuals in prison on the caseload for the Mental Health Teams (8% of the prison population); 191 on the caseload for Psychiatry (9% of the prison population); and 53 on the caseload for Psychology (2.5% of the prison population). It should be noted that a patient can be on the caseload for multiple services. Additionally, there will be other patients who will see the GP for support with their mental health, based on a tiered approach. Data on this is not currently available.
A Healthcare in Prison Mental Health Service Capacity and Capability Review, alongside a review of Psychological Services, was undertaken in 2023. In addition, a comprehensive Health Needs Assessment, focusing on mental health, addictions, and learning disability, is currently in the final stages of preparation. This assessment will provide commissioners with updated evidence, findings, and key considerations to help inform future services planning and the extent to which current provision meets demand.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046687%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485742","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485742"}},{"id":"485741","reference":"AQW 46686/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-20","answerBy":"2026-06-05","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any assessment she has made of the prevalence of adverse childhood experiences among the prison population; and (ii) whether trauma informed approaches are currently used within rehabilitation and support services in prisons.","answerText":"(i) It is widely acknowledged that those within the criminal justice system have a higher prevalence of adverse childhood experiences than those in the general population. Following the publication of a report on The Prevalence and Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Northern Ireland in 2025, the Northern Ireland Prison Service has recently commissioned a study by Dr Colm Walsh on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among the prison population. The study will cover all three prison establishments, with findings due to be available in the Autumn.\n\n(ii) Much of the provision offered within the prison service, both by staff and partner organisations, has been developed using trauma informed practice. The Northern Ireland Prison Service has committed to being recognised as a Trauma Informed Organisation by 2030 and are working in partnership with the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), to deliver this commitment.","answerHtml":"(i) It is widely acknowledged that those within the criminal justice system have a higher prevalence of adverse childhood experiences than those in the general population. Following the publication of a report on The Prevalence and Impact of Adverse Childhood Experiences in Northern Ireland in 2025, the Northern Ireland Prison Service has recently commissioned a study by Dr Colm Walsh on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) among the prison population. The study will cover all three prison establishments, with findings due to be available in the Autumn.
(ii) Much of the provision offered within the prison service, both by staff and partner organisations, has been developed using trauma informed practice. The Northern Ireland Prison Service has committed to being recognised as a Trauma Informed Organisation by 2030 and are working in partnership with the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI), to deliver this commitment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046686%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485741"}},{"id":"485176","reference":"AQW 46441/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-18","answerBy":"2026-06-03","answered":"2026-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any measures that are currently in place to manage increases in the prison population; and (ii) whether any additional measures are under consideration, including the use of alternative disposals or early release mechanisms.","answerText":"The Prison Service has responded to substantial and sustained population increases by using all suitable accommodation at both Magilligan and Maghaberry and maximising the use of cell sharing. The balance of the population between Maghaberry and Magilligan is also being closely monitored and managed. The objective is to deliver the best prison regimes and services possible within available resources.\n\nAs well as these operational responses the Prison Service is expediting the development of a business case for emergency permanent cellular accommodation, to address the unprecedented increase in prisoner numbers and reduce the impact of crowding issues across the adult male estate.\n\nI am not currently considering using alternative disposals or releasing prisoners early in response to population pressures. My ongoing focus is to secure the resources the Prison Service needs to deliver safe, decent, secure and rehabilitative custody.","answerHtml":"The Prison Service has responded to substantial and sustained population increases by using all suitable accommodation at both Magilligan and Maghaberry and maximising the use of cell sharing. The balance of the population between Maghaberry and Magilligan is also being closely monitored and managed. The objective is to deliver the best prison regimes and services possible within available resources.
As well as these operational responses the Prison Service is expediting the development of a business case for emergency permanent cellular accommodation, to address the unprecedented increase in prisoner numbers and reduce the impact of crowding issues across the adult male estate.
I am not currently considering using alternative disposals or releasing prisoners early in response to population pressures. My ongoing focus is to secure the resources the Prison Service needs to deliver safe, decent, secure and rehabilitative custody.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046441%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485176","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485176"}},{"id":"485175","reference":"AQW 46440/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-18","answerBy":"2026-06-03","answered":"2026-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the operational capacity of each prison; (ii) the current occupancy levels against that capacity; and (iii) any actions being taken to manage population pressures within the prison estate.","answerText":"On 1 May 1,396 prisoners were being held in Maghaberry Prison, 503 in Magilligan Prison and 163 at Hydebank Wood. The operational capacity of Maghaberry is 1,631, Magilligan is 512 and Hydebank Wood is 353.\n\nWhilst these figures represent the capacity at a point in time, the actual number of spaces available to accommodate individuals can vary dependent upon a range of factors including the size and configuration of cohorts within the population, appropriate use of cell sharing, maintenance work etc.\n\nThe Prison Service has responded to substantial and sustained population increases by using all suitable accommodation at both Magilligan and Maghaberry and maximising the use of cell sharing. The balance of the population between Maghaberry and Magilligan is also being closely monitored and managed. The objective is to deliver the best prison regimes and services possible within available resources.\n\nAs well as these operational responses the Prison Service is expediting the development of a business case for emergency permanent cellular accommodation, to address the unprecedented increase in prisoner numbers and reduce the impact of crowding issues across the adult male estate.\n\nMy ongoing focus is to secure the resources the Prison Service needs to deliver safe, decent, secure and rehabilitative custody.","answerHtml":"On 1 May 1,396 prisoners were being held in Maghaberry Prison, 503 in Magilligan Prison and 163 at Hydebank Wood. The operational capacity of Maghaberry is 1,631, Magilligan is 512 and Hydebank Wood is 353.
Whilst these figures represent the capacity at a point in time, the actual number of spaces available to accommodate individuals can vary dependent upon a range of factors including the size and configuration of cohorts within the population, appropriate use of cell sharing, maintenance work etc.
The Prison Service has responded to substantial and sustained population increases by using all suitable accommodation at both Magilligan and Maghaberry and maximising the use of cell sharing. The balance of the population between Maghaberry and Magilligan is also being closely monitored and managed. The objective is to deliver the best prison regimes and services possible within available resources.
As well as these operational responses the Prison Service is expediting the development of a business case for emergency permanent cellular accommodation, to address the unprecedented increase in prisoner numbers and reduce the impact of crowding issues across the adult male estate.
My ongoing focus is to secure the resources the Prison Service needs to deliver safe, decent, secure and rehabilitative custody.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485175"}},{"id":"485174","reference":"AQW 46439/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-18","answerBy":"2026-06-03","answered":"2026-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people, aged 65 and over, that are currently held within the prison estate; (ii) the number of these individuals receiving domiciliary or social care support; and (iii) whether any challenges have been identified in meeting their care needs.","answerText":"On the 19 May 2026 there were 74 individuals in prison aged 65 years and over. This figure comprises three individuals in Hydebank Wood, 30 in Magilligan and 41 in Maghaberry. Source: Northern Ireland Prison Service.\n\nTen patients in prison have been assessed as requiring a package of care; six are in receipt and four are outstanding.\n\nThe absence of formally commissioned personal care provision within the prison estate can result in challenges securing and delivering the required care from the community setting. This matter remains under consideration by officials within my Department.","answerHtml":"On the 19 May 2026 there were 74 individuals in prison aged 65 years and over. This figure comprises three individuals in Hydebank Wood, 30 in Magilligan and 41 in Maghaberry. Source: Northern Ireland Prison Service.
Ten patients in prison have been assessed as requiring a package of care; six are in receipt and four are outstanding.
The absence of formally commissioned personal care provision within the prison estate can result in challenges securing and delivering the required care from the community setting. This matter remains under consideration by officials within my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046439%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485174","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485174"}},{"id":"485173","reference":"AQW 46438/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-18","answerBy":"2026-06-03","answered":"2026-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the total number of women committed to custody, in each of the last five years; and (ii) any trends identified over that period.","answerText":"The following table details (i) the total number of individual females committed to Northern Ireland prison custody, in each of the last five years.\n\nYear\tFemales Committed\n2021\t222\n2022\t253\n2023\t290\n2024\t319\n2025\t321\n\nSource: PRISM – Management Information\n\nNotes: 1. Figures are snapshot data and are correct as at midnight on the dates shown.\n\n2. Individuals committed more than once within a year are counted once for that year. Individuals committed in multiple years are counted once in each year of committal.\n\n(ii) Trends indicate a year-on-year increase in the number of individual females committed to Northern Ireland prison custody over the last five years, with a marginal increase between 2024 and 2025. Overall, there was an increase of 45% between 2021 and 2025.","answerHtml":"The following table details (i) the total number of individual females committed to Northern Ireland prison custody, in each of the last five years.
| Year | Females Committed |
| 2021 | 222 |
| 2022 | 253 |
| 2023 | 290 |
| 2024 | 319 |
| 2025 | 321 |
Source: PRISM – Management Information
Notes: 1. Figures are snapshot data and are correct as at midnight on the dates shown.
2. Individuals committed more than once within a year are counted once for that year. Individuals committed in multiple years are counted once in each year of committal.
(ii) Trends indicate a year-on-year increase in the number of individual females committed to Northern Ireland prison custody over the last five years, with a marginal increase between 2024 and 2025. Overall, there was an increase of 45% between 2021 and 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046438%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485173"}},{"id":"485172","reference":"AQW 46437/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-18","answerBy":"2026-06-03","answered":"2026-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the current population in each prison; and (ii) how these figures compare to the population levels in each prison five years ago.","answerText":"The population in each prison establishment for 1 May 2021 and 1 May 2026 is shown in the table below:\n\n2021\t2026\nMaghaberry\t881\t1,396\nMagilligan\t413\t503\nHydebank\t105\t163\nTotal\t1,399\t2,062","answerHtml":"The population in each prison establishment for 1 May 2021 and 1 May 2026 is shown in the table below:
| 2021 | 2026 | |
| Maghaberry | 881 | 1,396 |
| Magilligan | 413 | 503 |
| Hydebank | 105 | 163 |
| Total | 1,399 | 2,062 |
Bladder cancer is managed within the urology specialty and delivered through a regionally configured model of care across Northern Ireland. Urology services are delivered across four Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts: Belfast, South Eastern, Southern and Western.
Initial diagnostics and first definitive treatments are generally delivered locally, with more complex surgery, including radical cystectomy, provided as a regional specialist service primarily within Belfast HSC Trust. Genito-urinary systemic anti-cancer treatments (e.g. chemotherapy) are delivered across all Trusts whilst radiotherapy for the region is delivered by the Northern Ireland Cancer Centre in the Belfast HSC Trust and the North West Cancer Centre in the Western HSC Trust.
Cancer waiting time performance is reported at urological cancer level rather than for bladder cancer specifically. Latest published data shows that urology performance against the 62‑day standard is challenged across all Trusts due to demand, workforce and capacity pressures. Performance against the 31‑day standard is most challenged in the Belfast HSC Trust, reflecting its role as the regional specialist provider for complex bladder cancer treatment, rather than indicating regional variation in access.
The Northern Ireland Cancer Registry (NICR) produces annual official statistics which includes cancer incidence, prevalence and mortality in Northern Ireland. The most recent validated data available from the NICR covers cancer diagnoses up to and including the year 2022. This is confirmed in the Bladder Cancer Official Statistics Report (2025), which specifies the bladder cancer data annually from 1993 to 2022. This report, factsheets and datasheets can be accessed at the following link:
https://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/nicr/cancer-information/cancer-data-by-tumour-type/bladder-cancer/
All aspects of the data are not reported by Trust however, where data is broken down by Trust of residence, it does not indicate statistically significant variation in either incidence or mortality.
Overall, given the regional and centrally delivered configuration of services and the available performance and cancer registry data, there is no current evidence of unwarranted regional disparities in the diagnosis, treatment or outcomes of bladder cancer. Ongoing investment through the Elective Care Framework will further support urology capacity and waiting time improvement across the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045955%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=484128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=484128"}},{"id":"484127","reference":"AQW 45954/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-11","answerBy":"2026-05-27","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail whether GPs have been provided with any updated guidance or training on identifying potential symptoms of bladder cancer.","answerText":"As independent contractors, GPs are expected to have the appropriate training and skills for the services they provide.\n\nAll doctors who become GPs undertake comprehensive training which encompasses a wide range of conditions including cancer.\n\nGP also need to maintain and update their skills knowledge through ongoing professional development including yearly appraisals and revalidation, in line with General Medical Council (GMC) requirements. Revalidation is how doctors demonstrate that they are still fit to practice and can therefore continue to work in the UK.\n\nMy Department supports the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on recognising and referring suspected bladder cancer, most recently updated in April 2026.\n\nAlongside this, the Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) provides GPs with up-to-date advice on suspected cancer referrals, including clinical guidelines and referral pathways. Together, these help GPs to identify potential cancers early and ensure patients are referred quickly and appropriately.\n\nThere are also a number of initiatives in place to make training easier to access for GPs and practice teams. For example, GPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to provide clear and consistent communication for those working within GP Primary Care. Since then it has grown into a widely used regional platform, offering a website and regular webinars to share information and resources.\n\nPractice Based Learning (PBL) is another important element. It provides structured learning sessions and helps ensure that GPs and their teams have protected time for education and development,\n\nAlthough it was originally developed by the former Health & Social Care Board (HSCB), since March 2020 it has been commissioned by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) and delivered through GP Federations. It continues to offer a practical and a cost-effective way to support learning for GPs, nurses and the wider Practice team.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors, GPs are expected to have the appropriate training and skills for the services they provide.
All doctors who become GPs undertake comprehensive training which encompasses a wide range of conditions including cancer.
GP also need to maintain and update their skills knowledge through ongoing professional development including yearly appraisals and revalidation, in line with General Medical Council (GMC) requirements. Revalidation is how doctors demonstrate that they are still fit to practice and can therefore continue to work in the UK.
My Department supports the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on recognising and referring suspected bladder cancer, most recently updated in April 2026.
Alongside this, the Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) provides GPs with up-to-date advice on suspected cancer referrals, including clinical guidelines and referral pathways. Together, these help GPs to identify potential cancers early and ensure patients are referred quickly and appropriately.
There are also a number of initiatives in place to make training easier to access for GPs and practice teams. For example, GPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to provide clear and consistent communication for those working within GP Primary Care. Since then it has grown into a widely used regional platform, offering a website and regular webinars to share information and resources.
Practice Based Learning (PBL) is another important element. It provides structured learning sessions and helps ensure that GPs and their teams have protected time for education and development,
Although it was originally developed by the former Health & Social Care Board (HSCB), since March 2020 it has been commissioned by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) and delivered through GP Federations. It continues to offer a practical and a cost-effective way to support learning for GPs, nurses and the wider Practice team.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045954%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=484127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=484127"}},{"id":"484126","reference":"AQW 45953/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-11","answerBy":"2026-05-27","answered":"2026-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to improve public awareness of the symptoms of bladder cancer.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) Be Cancer Aware campaign highlights a range of signs and symptoms that can be associated with cancer.\n\nThe Be Cancer Aware website provides detailed information on the specific signs and symptoms of bladder cancer, along with guidance on available support services. Further information can be accessed at:\n\nhttps://www.becancerawareni.info/signs-and-symptoms/bladder-cancer","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) Be Cancer Aware campaign highlights a range of signs and symptoms that can be associated with cancer.
The Be Cancer Aware website provides detailed information on the specific signs and symptoms of bladder cancer, along with guidance on available support services. Further information can be accessed at:
https://www.becancerawareni.info/signs-and-symptoms/bladder-cancer
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045953%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=484126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=484126"}},{"id":"483839","reference":"AQW 45826/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has made any assessment of regional inequalities in access to ovarian cancer diagnostics and treatment.","answerText":"My Department has not undertaken a specific, standalone assessment of regional inequalities in access to ovarian cancer diagnostics and treatment.\n\nHowever, access to diagnostic and treatment services is actively and routinely monitored across all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust areas through a comprehensive range of performance indicators, including cancer waiting times, diagnostic waiting times, and elective care data. This provides a clear and ongoing assessment of variation in access and performance across regions, including within ovarian cancer pathways.\n\nOvarian cancer diagnosis and treatment involve multiple stages, including primary care referral, diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and CT, laboratory testing, and specialist gynaecology oncology care. My Department recognises that variation in any part of this pathway, including waiting times for diagnostics or outpatient appointments, can impact timeliness of care across Trust areas.\n\nSystem-wide pressures, including workforce challenges and growing demand for diagnostics, are also recognised as key factors that may affect delivery across regions. These are being actively addressed through service planning and performance management.\n\nA number of measures are being progressed to reduce variation and strengthen equity of access. This includes the development of regional elective care approaches, including:\n\ncentres of excellence and regional diagnostic services;\n\nthe implementation of clinically prioritised waiting lists to ensure patients are treated based on clinical need rather than location;\n\ntargeted investment in diagnostic capacity and workforce; and,\n\nregional cancer service planning, including the delivery of specialist gynaecological oncology services on a regional basis.\n\nMy Department will continue to use available data to identify and address unwarranted variation and remains fully committed to improving equity, timeliness, and outcomes for all patients across Northern Ireland, including those with ovarian cancer.","answerHtml":"My Department has not undertaken a specific, standalone assessment of regional inequalities in access to ovarian cancer diagnostics and treatment.
However, access to diagnostic and treatment services is actively and routinely monitored across all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust areas through a comprehensive range of performance indicators, including cancer waiting times, diagnostic waiting times, and elective care data. This provides a clear and ongoing assessment of variation in access and performance across regions, including within ovarian cancer pathways.
Ovarian cancer diagnosis and treatment involve multiple stages, including primary care referral, diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and CT, laboratory testing, and specialist gynaecology oncology care. My Department recognises that variation in any part of this pathway, including waiting times for diagnostics or outpatient appointments, can impact timeliness of care across Trust areas.
System-wide pressures, including workforce challenges and growing demand for diagnostics, are also recognised as key factors that may affect delivery across regions. These are being actively addressed through service planning and performance management.
A number of measures are being progressed to reduce variation and strengthen equity of access. This includes the development of regional elective care approaches, including:
centres of excellence and regional diagnostic services;
the implementation of clinically prioritised waiting lists to ensure patients are treated based on clinical need rather than location;
targeted investment in diagnostic capacity and workforce; and,
regional cancer service planning, including the delivery of specialist gynaecological oncology services on a regional basis.
My Department will continue to use available data to identify and address unwarranted variation and remains fully committed to improving equity, timeliness, and outcomes for all patients across Northern Ireland, including those with ovarian cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045826%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483839"}},{"id":"483838","reference":"AQW 45825/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any public awareness campaigns his Department (i) has delivered, in the last three years; and (ii) plans to deliver, to improve awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer.","answerText":"Due to significant budgetary pressures mass media campaigns were paused in 2023. Communications activity is therefore being delivered mainly through low-cost and non-paid-for channels. While the pause remains in place, non-paid-for awareness raising continues, and includes targeted use of social media, engagement with local media, the provision of online information, and ongoing partnership work with local charities.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) Be Cancer Aware (BCA) campaign focuses on increasing public awareness of cancer. This includes raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancers and encouraging early GP contact, promoting uptake of screening programmes, and highlighting lifestyle factors that influence cancer risk.\n\nThe Be Cancer Aware website provides information on symptoms of various cancers, including ovarian cancer, and directs people to further information and support: www.BeCancerAwareNi.info/Ovarian-Cancer.\n\nDuring Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in March every year, the PHA also promotes cancer awareness through press and social media activity that is focused on early symptom recognition. More information is available at: www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/ovarian-cancer-awareness-helps-save-lives.\n\nIn addition, the PHA shares regular social media content throughout the year to promote awareness of cancer symptoms and encourage healthy lifestyle changes to help reduce cancer risk. These messages are delivered through a range of channels, including social media, print and online resources, local media, and the Living Well campaigns across over 500 community pharmacies in Northern Ireland, reaching around 120,000 people daily. The PHA also works with partners such as Cancer Research UK, Cancer Focus and Action Cancer to strengthen and amplify messaging.\n\nMy Departmental officials are also currently developing a Women's Health Action Plan that outlines a range of policy and service developments that will support women’s health. This will include ways to improve awareness and understanding among women and healthcare professionals on a range of women’s health issues including ovarian cancer.","answerHtml":"Due to significant budgetary pressures mass media campaigns were paused in 2023. Communications activity is therefore being delivered mainly through low-cost and non-paid-for channels. While the pause remains in place, non-paid-for awareness raising continues, and includes targeted use of social media, engagement with local media, the provision of online information, and ongoing partnership work with local charities.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) Be Cancer Aware (BCA) campaign focuses on increasing public awareness of cancer. This includes raising awareness of the signs and symptoms of cancers and encouraging early GP contact, promoting uptake of screening programmes, and highlighting lifestyle factors that influence cancer risk.
The Be Cancer Aware website provides information on symptoms of various cancers, including ovarian cancer, and directs people to further information and support: www.BeCancerAwareNi.info/Ovarian-Cancer.
During Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in March every year, the PHA also promotes cancer awareness through press and social media activity that is focused on early symptom recognition. More information is available at: www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/ovarian-cancer-awareness-helps-save-lives.
In addition, the PHA shares regular social media content throughout the year to promote awareness of cancer symptoms and encourage healthy lifestyle changes to help reduce cancer risk. These messages are delivered through a range of channels, including social media, print and online resources, local media, and the Living Well campaigns across over 500 community pharmacies in Northern Ireland, reaching around 120,000 people daily. The PHA also works with partners such as Cancer Research UK, Cancer Focus and Action Cancer to strengthen and amplify messaging.
My Departmental officials are also currently developing a Women's Health Action Plan that outlines a range of policy and service developments that will support women’s health. This will include ways to improve awareness and understanding among women and healthcare professionals on a range of women’s health issues including ovarian cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045825%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483838"}},{"id":"483837","reference":"AQW 45824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures there are to ensure women presenting repeatedly with persistent ovarian cancer symptoms are appropriately escalated for further investigation.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis in improving outcomes for women with ovarian cancer, particularly where women present repeatedly with persistent or worsening symptoms.\n\nMeasures are in place to ensure appropriate escalation, including Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) suspected cancer referral guidance which supports general practitioners (GPs) in recognising when further investigation is required. This includes CA125 testing (a blood test used to measure levels of CA125 protein, which can be raised in ovarian cancer patients) alongside clinical judgement, and urgent referral for ultrasound and gynaecology where symptoms persist or recur. The guidance emphasises that ongoing, unexplained symptoms should not be managed on a single test result alone.\n\nUpdated National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NG12 guidance (April 2026) reinforces this approach, including age-adjusted CA125 thresholds and a stronger focus on repeat clinical review and direct access to ultrasound where symptoms persist, supporting earlier escalation for women who re-present.\n\nThe NICaN Gynaecology Clinical Reference Group (CRG) is reviewing these updates to ensure local guidance reflects best practice. Once agreed, it will be issued to GPs and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and supported by targeted education.\n\nImplementation will include a structured regional rollout, publication within clinical pathways, and GP training, with a specific focus on recognising repeat presentations as a trigger for escalation. This will support consistent application so that women with persistent symptoms are promptly referred for appropriate diagnostic assessment.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis in improving outcomes for women with ovarian cancer, particularly where women present repeatedly with persistent or worsening symptoms.
Measures are in place to ensure appropriate escalation, including Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) suspected cancer referral guidance which supports general practitioners (GPs) in recognising when further investigation is required. This includes CA125 testing (a blood test used to measure levels of CA125 protein, which can be raised in ovarian cancer patients) alongside clinical judgement, and urgent referral for ultrasound and gynaecology where symptoms persist or recur. The guidance emphasises that ongoing, unexplained symptoms should not be managed on a single test result alone.
Updated National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) NG12 guidance (April 2026) reinforces this approach, including age-adjusted CA125 thresholds and a stronger focus on repeat clinical review and direct access to ultrasound where symptoms persist, supporting earlier escalation for women who re-present.
The NICaN Gynaecology Clinical Reference Group (CRG) is reviewing these updates to ensure local guidance reflects best practice. Once agreed, it will be issued to GPs and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and supported by targeted education.
Implementation will include a structured regional rollout, publication within clinical pathways, and GP training, with a specific focus on recognising repeat presentations as a trigger for escalation. This will support consistent application so that women with persistent symptoms are promptly referred for appropriate diagnostic assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483837"}},{"id":"483836","reference":"AQW 45823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact that pressures in diagnostic imaging and gynaecology services are having on ovarian cancer diagnosis times.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the pressures currently impacting diagnostic imaging and gynaecology services, and the potential implications these may have for timely cancer diagnosis, including ovarian cancer.\n\nWhile a specific, standalone assessment has not been undertaken on the direct impact of these pressures on ovarian cancer diagnosis times, the issue is actively captured and monitored through broader analysis of cancer waiting times, diagnostic performance, and elective care data. This provides a clear understanding of where delays may arise across cancer pathways.\n\nOvarian cancer diagnosis is inherently complex and typically requires a combination of diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound and CT scanning, laboratory testing, and specialist gynaecology assessment. Pressures in any part of this pathway, particularly in imaging capacity and workforce availability within gynaecology services, are recognised as key factors that may contribute to delays from referral through to diagnosis.\n\nMy Department routinely monitors performance against Northern Ireland cancer waiting time targets, including the 62-day target from urgent GP referral to first definitive treatment. Variances against these targets provide a clear indicator of system pressures, including diagnostic bottlenecks.\n\nWork is ongoing across Health and Social Care to address these challenges. This includes investment in diagnostic capacity through the Elective Care Framework, including:\n\nthe expansion of regional diagnostic services;\n\ntargeted efforts to stabilise and grow the radiology and gynaecology workforce;\n\nthe implementation of clinically prioritised waiting lists; and,\n\nongoing pathway reform to improve patient flow and reduce delays.\n\nIn addition, my Department continues to engage closely with clinicians and service planners to identify where delays occur across cancer pathways, including in gynaecological cancers, and to take forward targeted improvement actions.\n\nMy Department remains committed to ensuring that service pressures are addressed and that patients receive timely diagnosis and treatment, regardless of pathway complexity or point of access.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the pressures currently impacting diagnostic imaging and gynaecology services, and the potential implications these may have for timely cancer diagnosis, including ovarian cancer.
While a specific, standalone assessment has not been undertaken on the direct impact of these pressures on ovarian cancer diagnosis times, the issue is actively captured and monitored through broader analysis of cancer waiting times, diagnostic performance, and elective care data. This provides a clear understanding of where delays may arise across cancer pathways.
Ovarian cancer diagnosis is inherently complex and typically requires a combination of diagnostic imaging, including ultrasound and CT scanning, laboratory testing, and specialist gynaecology assessment. Pressures in any part of this pathway, particularly in imaging capacity and workforce availability within gynaecology services, are recognised as key factors that may contribute to delays from referral through to diagnosis.
My Department routinely monitors performance against Northern Ireland cancer waiting time targets, including the 62-day target from urgent GP referral to first definitive treatment. Variances against these targets provide a clear indicator of system pressures, including diagnostic bottlenecks.
Work is ongoing across Health and Social Care to address these challenges. This includes investment in diagnostic capacity through the Elective Care Framework, including:
the expansion of regional diagnostic services;
targeted efforts to stabilise and grow the radiology and gynaecology workforce;
the implementation of clinically prioritised waiting lists; and,
ongoing pathway reform to improve patient flow and reduce delays.
In addition, my Department continues to engage closely with clinicians and service planners to identify where delays occur across cancer pathways, including in gynaecological cancers, and to take forward targeted improvement actions.
My Department remains committed to ensuring that service pressures are addressed and that patients receive timely diagnosis and treatment, regardless of pathway complexity or point of access.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483836"}},{"id":"483835","reference":"AQW 45822/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-08","answerBy":"2026-05-26","answered":"2026-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to reduce the average time between first presentation of ovarian cancer symptoms and diagnosis.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis in improving outcomes for women with ovarian cancer. A range of targeted actions are being taken to reduce the average time between first presentation of symptoms and diagnosis. These actions focus on strengthening early investigation in primary care, updating referral guidance, increasing access to diagnostic imaging and gynaecology services, and streamlining diagnostic pathways across the health and social care system.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) suspected cancer referral guidance supports early investigation, including CA125 testing (a blood test used to measure levels of CA125 protein, which can be raised in ovarian cancer patients) and urgent referral for ultrasound and gynaecology where indicated. In April 2026, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) updated its NG12 guidance on suspected cancer recognition and referral. These changes include the introduction of ageadjusted CA125 thresholds for women aged 40 and over, and a recommendation that CA125 should not be used in isolation for women aged 39 and under, with greater emphasis on direct access to ultrasound where symptoms persist.\n\nThe NICaN Gynaecology Clinical Reference Group (CRG) is currently reviewing these changes to ensure that primary care guidance for suspected gynaecological cancers is updated and aligned with locally available resources, so that diagnostic pathways in Northern Ireland reflect best practice and support earlier diagnosis. Once regionally agreed, the updated guidance will be disseminated to all GPs and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, published on the NICaN website, and supported by GP education and awareness sessions with a specific focus on ovarian cancer.\n\nMy Department also recognises that capacity pressures in diagnostic imaging, including nonobstetric ultrasound (NOUS), and in secondarycare gynaecology services can impact diagnostic timeliness. These pressures are being addressed through the Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan, which includes £12 million to expand CT, MRI and NOUS capacity, alongside £3.5 million to increase capacity for redflag and timecritical gynaecology services, enabling additional assessments and treatments.\n\nIn addition, my Department has established a Regional Health and Social Care Gynaecology Services Forum to oversee implementation of recommendations from the GIRFT Gynaecology Report, published in January 2024. This work includes streamlining diagnostic pathways, improving triage, and better use of multidisciplinary skills to support earlier diagnosis and more efficient patient care.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of early detection and timely diagnosis in improving outcomes for women with ovarian cancer. A range of targeted actions are being taken to reduce the average time between first presentation of symptoms and diagnosis. These actions focus on strengthening early investigation in primary care, updating referral guidance, increasing access to diagnostic imaging and gynaecology services, and streamlining diagnostic pathways across the health and social care system.
The Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) suspected cancer referral guidance supports early investigation, including CA125 testing (a blood test used to measure levels of CA125 protein, which can be raised in ovarian cancer patients) and urgent referral for ultrasound and gynaecology where indicated. In April 2026, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) updated its NG12 guidance on suspected cancer recognition and referral. These changes include the introduction of ageadjusted CA125 thresholds for women aged 40 and over, and a recommendation that CA125 should not be used in isolation for women aged 39 and under, with greater emphasis on direct access to ultrasound where symptoms persist.
The NICaN Gynaecology Clinical Reference Group (CRG) is currently reviewing these changes to ensure that primary care guidance for suspected gynaecological cancers is updated and aligned with locally available resources, so that diagnostic pathways in Northern Ireland reflect best practice and support earlier diagnosis. Once regionally agreed, the updated guidance will be disseminated to all GPs and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, published on the NICaN website, and supported by GP education and awareness sessions with a specific focus on ovarian cancer.
My Department also recognises that capacity pressures in diagnostic imaging, including nonobstetric ultrasound (NOUS), and in secondarycare gynaecology services can impact diagnostic timeliness. These pressures are being addressed through the Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan, which includes £12 million to expand CT, MRI and NOUS capacity, alongside £3.5 million to increase capacity for redflag and timecritical gynaecology services, enabling additional assessments and treatments.
In addition, my Department has established a Regional Health and Social Care Gynaecology Services Forum to oversee implementation of recommendations from the GIRFT Gynaecology Report, published in January 2024. This work includes streamlining diagnostic pathways, improving triage, and better use of multidisciplinary skills to support earlier diagnosis and more efficient patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045822%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483835"}},{"id":"483554","reference":"AQW 45695/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-22","answered":"2026-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 42846/22-27, to detail (i) the timeline for his Department’s consideration of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust Board’s recommendations regarding emergency general surgery provision at Causeway Hospital; and (ii) when he expects a final decision to be made.","answerText":"My Department continues to work closely with both the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trusts to assess how general surgery services can be delivered safely and sustainably at the Causeway Hospital. This work is considering the impact on both elective and emergency general surgery services across each Trust. The ongoing engagement and information analysis will take some time, however it is important that any decisions are underpinned and supported by the relevant data.\n\nIn considering the future model for general surgery across the Northern Trust, the Trust is required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change. Any decision on a permanent change to the delivery of emergency general surgery in the Northern Trust would require approval from my Department.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to work closely with both the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trusts to assess how general surgery services can be delivered safely and sustainably at the Causeway Hospital. This work is considering the impact on both elective and emergency general surgery services across each Trust. The ongoing engagement and information analysis will take some time, however it is important that any decisions are underpinned and supported by the relevant data.
In considering the future model for general surgery across the Northern Trust, the Trust is required to follow the Guidance on the Change and Withdrawal of Services. This includes appropriate engagement and assessment of impact as part of any proposals for service change. Any decision on a permanent change to the delivery of emergency general surgery in the Northern Trust would require approval from my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045695%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483554"}},{"id":"483553","reference":"AQW 45694/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-22","answered":"2026-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail a timeline for the laying of the sale and supply of puppies and kittens legislation, announced by his Department.","answerText":"Work is ongoing within my Department to draft the legislation required to introduce new requirements for the sale and supply of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland.\n\nI also recognise the importance of allowing councils, as the statutory enforcement bodies, sufficient time to prepare for implementation. My officials therefore continue to engage with councils and remain open to their input in informing appropriate leadin periods and timelines.\n\nSubject to the necessary statutory approvals, I anticipate legislation will be made and laid before the end of 2026.","answerHtml":"Work is ongoing within my Department to draft the legislation required to introduce new requirements for the sale and supply of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland.
I also recognise the importance of allowing councils, as the statutory enforcement bodies, sufficient time to prepare for implementation. My officials therefore continue to engage with councils and remain open to their input in informing appropriate leadin periods and timelines.
Subject to the necessary statutory approvals, I anticipate legislation will be made and laid before the end of 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045694%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483553"}},{"id":"483552","reference":"AQW 45693/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-22","answered":"2026-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department ensures equal access to training and professional development opportunities for teachers working in rural schools.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that all teachers in Northern Ireland, including those in rural schools, have equitable access to professional learning opportunities. This commitment is outlined in Leading Together for Excellence: A TransformED NI Strategy for Teacher Professional Learning, currently out for public consultation.\n\nAll professional learning opportunities are offered to teachers, irrespective of their location. In addition, through the ongoing implementation of TransformED, access to high-quality online professional learning provision has increased significantly. This includes the science of learning programmes, for both primary and post-primary teachers. Online opportunities are being further strengthened through plans for a unified digital professional learning platform to enhance access, equity and collaboration across the system.\n\nMy Department also continues to support collaboration through online and regional professional learning communities, helping to reduce isolation and ensure that teachers in rural schools can share effective practice.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that all teachers in Northern Ireland, including those in rural schools, have equitable access to professional learning opportunities. This commitment is outlined in Leading Together for Excellence: A TransformED NI Strategy for Teacher Professional Learning, currently out for public consultation.
All professional learning opportunities are offered to teachers, irrespective of their location. In addition, through the ongoing implementation of TransformED, access to high-quality online professional learning provision has increased significantly. This includes the science of learning programmes, for both primary and post-primary teachers. Online opportunities are being further strengthened through plans for a unified digital professional learning platform to enhance access, equity and collaboration across the system.
My Department also continues to support collaboration through online and regional professional learning communities, helping to reduce isolation and ensure that teachers in rural schools can share effective practice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045693%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483552"}},{"id":"483551","reference":"AQW 45692/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-22","answered":"2026-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the average annual spend on teacher professional development, including associated support costs, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department does not hold a single, consolidated figure for the average annual spend on Teacher Professional Learning (TPL) for each of the last five years.\n\nThis reflects the way in which TPL is delivered across the education system. TPL comprises a wide range of activity delivered through multiple programmes and partners, with associated costs often embedded within wider budgets (including staffing, substitution cover, digital provision and school improvement activity).\n\nTPL activity is delivered across:\n\nDepartment-funded programmes;\n\nthe Education Authority, through its Education Directorate and Children and Young People’s Services Directorate;\n\narm’slength bodies and sectoral organisations (including CCEA, CCMS, NICIE, CnaG and ETI); and\n\nschool-level and teacher-led activity, including collaborative practice and professional inquiry.\n\nGiven the breadth of provision and the distributed nature of funding, much of which is embedded within wider programme expenditure, it is not currently possible to disaggregate and report a precise annual spend figure for TPL without undertaking a detailed, system-wide exercise and agreeing a common definition of what constitutes TPL.\n\nHowever, since publishing my TransformED strategy in March 2025, I have provided significant investment in TPL. For the 2025/26 financial year, the Department provided a total of £8.9m on a range of TPL programmes and actions.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold a single, consolidated figure for the average annual spend on Teacher Professional Learning (TPL) for each of the last five years.
This reflects the way in which TPL is delivered across the education system. TPL comprises a wide range of activity delivered through multiple programmes and partners, with associated costs often embedded within wider budgets (including staffing, substitution cover, digital provision and school improvement activity).
TPL activity is delivered across:
Department-funded programmes;
the Education Authority, through its Education Directorate and Children and Young People’s Services Directorate;
arm’slength bodies and sectoral organisations (including CCEA, CCMS, NICIE, CnaG and ETI); and
school-level and teacher-led activity, including collaborative practice and professional inquiry.
Given the breadth of provision and the distributed nature of funding, much of which is embedded within wider programme expenditure, it is not currently possible to disaggregate and report a precise annual spend figure for TPL without undertaking a detailed, system-wide exercise and agreeing a common definition of what constitutes TPL.
However, since publishing my TransformED strategy in March 2025, I have provided significant investment in TPL. For the 2025/26 financial year, the Department provided a total of £8.9m on a range of TPL programmes and actions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045692%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483551"}},{"id":"483550","reference":"AQW 45691/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-22","answered":"2026-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any current arrangements for reimbursing teachers’ travel costs associated with training, professional development or curriculum support events.","answerText":"Any teacher incurring additional travel costs associated with training, professional development or curriculum support events can submit an authorised claim online to the Education Authority (EA).\n\nOnce approved the claim is processed via an interface with the teachers’ payroll system.","answerHtml":"Any teacher incurring additional travel costs associated with training, professional development or curriculum support events can submit an authorised claim online to the Education Authority (EA).
Once approved the claim is processed via an interface with the teachers’ payroll system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045691%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=483550","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=483550"}},{"id":"485382","reference":"AQO 3590/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":"2026-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any engagement her Department has had with Ulster University in relation to maintaining higher education provision at the Coleraine campus following the announcement of proposed staffing reductions.","answerText":"First, I would like to recognise that this will be a particularly worrying time for staff and students at the University. I am working to secure a funding settlement that can deliver a sustainable Higher Education sector.\n\nSince the return of the Executive, student numbers at the Coleraine campus have increased by 12% and new courses have been introduced. My Department has provided £7 million of dedicated capital investment to the Coleraine Campus in the last ten years: £4.5 million supported the enhancement of the campus' sports facilities and £2.5 million supported the purchase of research equipment for the campus, as well as improvements to teaching, research and IT infrastructure.\n\nAs part of the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal, signed on 29th April, my Department is also working with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council and Ulster University on the development of a Centre for Food and Drug Discovery at Coleraine.\n\nMy Department’s budget is extremely challenging and I am seeking additional grant funding to support a sustainable higher education sector. I have also commissioned independent analysis of the costs of Ulster University’s multicampus model.","answerHtml":"First, I would like to recognise that this will be a particularly worrying time for staff and students at the University. I am working to secure a funding settlement that can deliver a sustainable Higher Education sector.
Since the return of the Executive, student numbers at the Coleraine campus have increased by 12% and new courses have been introduced. My Department has provided £7 million of dedicated capital investment to the Coleraine Campus in the last ten years: £4.5 million supported the enhancement of the campus' sports facilities and £2.5 million supported the purchase of research equipment for the campus, as well as improvements to teaching, research and IT infrastructure.
As part of the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal, signed on 29th April, my Department is also working with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council and Ulster University on the development of a Centre for Food and Drug Discovery at Coleraine.
My Department’s budget is extremely challenging and I am seeking additional grant funding to support a sustainable higher education sector. I have also commissioned independent analysis of the costs of Ulster University’s multicampus model.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203590%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485382","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485382"}},{"id":"485281","reference":"AQO 3578/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-07","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the roll-out of the recently announced home heating oil support scheme.","answerText":"I remain firmly committed to providing practical assistance to those most at risk of fuel poverty.\n\nThe £36.4 million I secured will support delivery of an application based Home Heating Oil Support scheme.\n\nAssistance of £100 for home heating oil will be offered to over 340,000 households across Northern Ireland. This covers a range of vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, older people and those on a low income. For households, lowincome is defined as annual income below £30,000 after deductions, such as National Insurance, income tax, and pension contributions.\n\nAny such scheme which seeks to direct assistance towards over 340,000 homes naturally brings complexities. As the scheme goes beyond benefits and recognises that many working families struggle with heating costs, it will take time to get the appropriate infrastructure in place.\n\nThis reflects the need to develop a new IT system to handle applications, alongside the time required to design the policy, draft legislation and put in place contractual arrangements, and establish key processes—such as fraud prevention measures, staff guidance, and training.\n\nMy officials are continuing to work at pace to deliver the necessary arrangements required for the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme, recognising the urgency of the legislation and the need to secure approval ahead of the summer recess.\n\nMy officials will shortly be briefing the Communities Committee on the scheme policy.","answerHtml":"I remain firmly committed to providing practical assistance to those most at risk of fuel poverty.
The £36.4 million I secured will support delivery of an application based Home Heating Oil Support scheme.
Assistance of £100 for home heating oil will be offered to over 340,000 households across Northern Ireland. This covers a range of vulnerable groups, including those with disabilities, older people and those on a low income. For households, lowincome is defined as annual income below £30,000 after deductions, such as National Insurance, income tax, and pension contributions.
Any such scheme which seeks to direct assistance towards over 340,000 homes naturally brings complexities. As the scheme goes beyond benefits and recognises that many working families struggle with heating costs, it will take time to get the appropriate infrastructure in place.
This reflects the need to develop a new IT system to handle applications, alongside the time required to design the policy, draft legislation and put in place contractual arrangements, and establish key processes—such as fraud prevention measures, staff guidance, and training.
My officials are continuing to work at pace to deliver the necessary arrangements required for the Home Heating Oil Support Scheme, recognising the urgency of the legislation and the need to secure approval ahead of the summer recess.
My officials will shortly be briefing the Communities Committee on the scheme policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203578%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=485281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=485281"}},{"id":"482994","reference":"AQW 45471/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-05","answerBy":"2026-05-20","answered":"2026-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any immediate financial or policy interventions she is considering, to support independent hospitality businesses facing increased insolvency risk.","answerText":"Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance. Tourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.\n\nMy Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets.\n\nMy Department will continue to monitor business sentiment as part of our wider assessment of economic conditions, and I remain committed to ongoing engagement with key stakeholders as we work to support a sustainable and thriving hospitality sector in line with my four economic priorities.\n\nI recently met with Hospitality Ulster and the NI Food to Go Association to discuss their proposals for a VAT reduction pilot scheme to address the VAT differential for hospitality between the North and the South. Following these discussions, I wrote jointly with the Minister of Finance to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury seeking an early meeting to address the issue of VAT disparity.\n\nI will continue to work closely with the Minister of Finance to advocate for a fairer tax framework that supports local businesses and enables them to compete effectively on an allisland basis.","answerHtml":"Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance. Tourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.
My Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets.
My Department will continue to monitor business sentiment as part of our wider assessment of economic conditions, and I remain committed to ongoing engagement with key stakeholders as we work to support a sustainable and thriving hospitality sector in line with my four economic priorities.
I recently met with Hospitality Ulster and the NI Food to Go Association to discuss their proposals for a VAT reduction pilot scheme to address the VAT differential for hospitality between the North and the South. Following these discussions, I wrote jointly with the Minister of Finance to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury seeking an early meeting to address the issue of VAT disparity.
I will continue to work closely with the Minister of Finance to advocate for a fairer tax framework that supports local businesses and enables them to compete effectively on an allisland basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482994"}},{"id":"482993","reference":"AQW 45470/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-05","answerBy":"2026-05-20","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any (i) clinical criteria used; and (ii) decision-making process followed, when an urgent referral for suspected cancer is downgraded to a routine non-urgent referral.","answerText":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.\n\nAll referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.\n\nReferring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.\n\nAs outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.\n\nWhile no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.\n\nMy Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.","answerHtml":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.
The Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.
All referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.
Referring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.
As outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.
While no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.
My Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045470%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482993"}},{"id":"482992","reference":"AQW 45469/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-05","answerBy":"2026-05-20","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any maximum timeframe is set for reviewing or progressing a referral that has been downgraded from urgent to routine non-urgent, including for suspected cancer.","answerText":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.\n\nAll referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.\n\nReferring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.\n\nAs outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.\n\nWhile no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.\n\nMy Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.","answerHtml":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.
The Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.
All referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.
Referring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.
As outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.
While no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.
My Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045469%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482992"}},{"id":"482991","reference":"AQW 45468/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-05","answerBy":"2026-05-20","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any arrangements in place to ensure that a patient is informed when an urgent referral, including for suspected cancer, is subsequently downgraded to a routine non-urgent referral; and (ii) whether this communication is issued directly to the patient.","answerText":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.\n\nAll referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.\n\nReferring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.\n\nAs outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.\n\nWhile no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.\n\nMy Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.","answerHtml":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.
The Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.
All referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.
Referring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.
As outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.
While no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.
My Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045468%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482991"}},{"id":"482990","reference":"AQW 45467/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-05","answerBy":"2026-05-20","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any processes in place to ensure that the downgrading of an urgent referral, including for suspected cancer, to a routine non-urgent referral does not lead to delays in diagnosis or treatment.","answerText":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.\n\nAll referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.\n\nReferring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.\n\nAs outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.\n\nWhile no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.\n\nMy Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.","answerHtml":"The triage of referrals, is a clinically led process undertaken in accordance with regional referral guidance, national clinical guidelines and professional standards.
The Northern Ireland Referral Guidance for Suspected Cancer (Red Flag Criteria) draws on national evidence, including NICE NG12, alongside local clinical expertise to provide clinicians with standardised, evidence-based criteria that support consistent decision making for red flag referrals.
All referrals are triaged by clinicians to determine whether the information provided by the referrer supports the level of urgency requested. Where, following clinical review, a referral is downgraded to urgent or routine, this is based on clinical judgement within established referral guidance.
Referring clinicians retain the ability to rerefer or seek urgent reassessment where there are concerns regarding deterioration or the development of new symptoms. Escalation processes are also in place to review a patient’s priority where additional clinical information becomes available or a patient’s condition changes.
As outlined in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), following the receipt and triage of a referral, the patient is sent an acknowledgement letter or text that confirms receipt of the referral, the name of the specialty the patient has been referred to, the clinical urgency assigned by the clinician at triage and contact details for the relevant service. Trusts continue to keep communication arrangements under review to ensure patients are appropriately informed about their care.
While no maximum timeframe is specifically set for the review of referrals that have been downgraded to urgent or routine, patients are managed in line with regional waiting time standards relevant to their urgency. Performance against waiting time standards is monitored at a Trust and regional level.
My Department works with Trusts to promote the consistent application of referral guidance and to support ongoing improvement in referral pathways, including those for suspected cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045467%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482990"}},{"id":"482720","reference":"AQW 45341/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":"2026-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department has made any formal representations to HM Treasury, in the last year, advocating for a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality sector.","answerText":"Our hospitality businesses are vital not only to our wider economy but also to our communities. I am committed to the development of a thriving hospitality sector and I continue to engage with its representatives. Along with the Finance Minister, I met with representatives from Hospitality Ulster and the Food to Go Association on 13 January, to discuss their proposals for a reduced VAT pilot scheme in the North.\n\nFollowing that meeting, we wrote jointly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 17 February, to seek a meeting with him, alongside local hospitality sector bodies, to discuss the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. It is disappointing that to date, no response has been received from Treasury to that letter.\n\nWhile our pubs are closing at a faster rate than in England, Wales, Scotland or the south of Ireland, the number of hospitality businesses overall has risen. Data for the years 2022-2024 indicate that there was a total of 1600 business births in the Accommodation & food services sector, with 1525 deaths. This equates to a net growth of 75 businesses, or roughly 25 extra businesses per annum over that time period.\n\nMy Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.\n\nTourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.","answerHtml":"Our hospitality businesses are vital not only to our wider economy but also to our communities. I am committed to the development of a thriving hospitality sector and I continue to engage with its representatives. Along with the Finance Minister, I met with representatives from Hospitality Ulster and the Food to Go Association on 13 January, to discuss their proposals for a reduced VAT pilot scheme in the North.
Following that meeting, we wrote jointly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 17 February, to seek a meeting with him, alongside local hospitality sector bodies, to discuss the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. It is disappointing that to date, no response has been received from Treasury to that letter.
While our pubs are closing at a faster rate than in England, Wales, Scotland or the south of Ireland, the number of hospitality businesses overall has risen. Data for the years 2022-2024 indicate that there was a total of 1600 business births in the Accommodation & food services sector, with 1525 deaths. This equates to a net growth of 75 businesses, or roughly 25 extra businesses per annum over that time period.
My Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.
Tourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045341%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482720"}},{"id":"482719","reference":"AQW 45340/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":"2026-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has engaged with HM Treasury on the case for a regionally differentiated or reduced VAT rate for hospitality in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have repeatedly called upon the British Government to consider a lower VAT rate for the hospitality sector in the North. This issue has been raised in meetings I have had with the Chancellor and Chief Secretary to the Treasury (CST). The issue has also been raised by the First and deputy First Ministers when they met with the Prime Minister in December 2025, therefore it has been raised at the highest political levels.\n\nOn 17 February, the Economy Minister and I wrote jointly to the CST to request a meeting, alongside local hospitality sector industry bodies, to highlight the need for the British Government to consider reforms to the VAT system and the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme locally.\n\nI find it deeply disappointing that the British Government continues to show no willingness to consider this issue and has failed to take the decisive action needed to provide meaningful support to the hospitality sector here. I will continue to make the case for a tax system that is fair, proportionate and progressive allowing hospitality businesses in the North to compete on a level playing field in the all-Ireland economy.","answerHtml":"I have repeatedly called upon the British Government to consider a lower VAT rate for the hospitality sector in the North. This issue has been raised in meetings I have had with the Chancellor and Chief Secretary to the Treasury (CST). The issue has also been raised by the First and deputy First Ministers when they met with the Prime Minister in December 2025, therefore it has been raised at the highest political levels.
On 17 February, the Economy Minister and I wrote jointly to the CST to request a meeting, alongside local hospitality sector industry bodies, to highlight the need for the British Government to consider reforms to the VAT system and the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme locally.
I find it deeply disappointing that the British Government continues to show no willingness to consider this issue and has failed to take the decisive action needed to provide meaningful support to the hospitality sector here. I will continue to make the case for a tax system that is fair, proportionate and progressive allowing hospitality businesses in the North to compete on a level playing field in the all-Ireland economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045340%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482719"}},{"id":"482718","reference":"AQW 45339/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":"2026-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department has made any assessment of the number of hospitality business closures since 2022.","answerText":"Our hospitality businesses are vital not only to our wider economy but also to our communities. I am committed to the development of a thriving hospitality sector and I continue to engage with its representatives. Along with the Finance Minister, I met with representatives from Hospitality Ulster and the Food to Go Association on 13 January, to discuss their proposals for a reduced VAT pilot scheme in the North.\n\nFollowing that meeting, we wrote jointly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 17 February, to seek a meeting with him, alongside local hospitality sector bodies, to discuss the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. It is disappointing that to date, no response has been received from Treasury to that letter.\n\nWhile our pubs are closing at a faster rate than in England, Wales, Scotland or the south of Ireland, the number of hospitality businesses overall has risen. Data for the years 2022-2024 indicate that there was a total of 1600 business births in the Accommodation & food services sector, with 1525 deaths. This equates to a net growth of 75 businesses, or roughly 25 extra businesses per annum over that time period.\n\nMy Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.\n\nTourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.","answerHtml":"Our hospitality businesses are vital not only to our wider economy but also to our communities. I am committed to the development of a thriving hospitality sector and I continue to engage with its representatives. Along with the Finance Minister, I met with representatives from Hospitality Ulster and the Food to Go Association on 13 January, to discuss their proposals for a reduced VAT pilot scheme in the North.
Following that meeting, we wrote jointly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 17 February, to seek a meeting with him, alongside local hospitality sector bodies, to discuss the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. It is disappointing that to date, no response has been received from Treasury to that letter.
While our pubs are closing at a faster rate than in England, Wales, Scotland or the south of Ireland, the number of hospitality businesses overall has risen. Data for the years 2022-2024 indicate that there was a total of 1600 business births in the Accommodation & food services sector, with 1525 deaths. This equates to a net growth of 75 businesses, or roughly 25 extra businesses per annum over that time period.
My Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.
Tourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045339%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482718"}},{"id":"482717","reference":"AQW 45338/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":"2026-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any specific actions her Department is taking to mitigate competitive disadvantage, faced by Northern Ireland hospitality businesses, arising from the lower VAT rate in the Republic of Ireland, from July 2026.","answerText":"Our hospitality businesses are vital not only to our wider economy but also to our communities. I am committed to the development of a thriving hospitality sector and I continue to engage with its representatives. Along with the Finance Minister, I met with representatives from Hospitality Ulster and the Food to Go Association on 13 January, to discuss their proposals for a reduced VAT pilot scheme in the North.\n\nFollowing that meeting, we wrote jointly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 17 February, to seek a meeting with him, alongside local hospitality sector bodies, to discuss the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. It is disappointing that to date, no response has been received from Treasury to that letter.\n\nWhile our pubs are closing at a faster rate than in England, Wales, Scotland or the south of Ireland, the number of hospitality businesses overall has risen. Data for the years 2022-2024 indicate that there was a total of 1600 business births in the Accommodation & food services sector, with 1525 deaths. This equates to a net growth of 75 businesses, or roughly 25 extra businesses per annum over that time period.\n\nMy Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.\n\nTourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.","answerHtml":"Our hospitality businesses are vital not only to our wider economy but also to our communities. I am committed to the development of a thriving hospitality sector and I continue to engage with its representatives. Along with the Finance Minister, I met with representatives from Hospitality Ulster and the Food to Go Association on 13 January, to discuss their proposals for a reduced VAT pilot scheme in the North.
Following that meeting, we wrote jointly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 17 February, to seek a meeting with him, alongside local hospitality sector bodies, to discuss the potential for a VAT reduction pilot scheme. It is disappointing that to date, no response has been received from Treasury to that letter.
While our pubs are closing at a faster rate than in England, Wales, Scotland or the south of Ireland, the number of hospitality businesses overall has risen. Data for the years 2022-2024 indicate that there was a total of 1600 business births in the Accommodation & food services sector, with 1525 deaths. This equates to a net growth of 75 businesses, or roughly 25 extra businesses per annum over that time period.
My Department and partner organisations continue to provide a broad range of supports to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI provides a broad range of support to small and medium sized businesses across the North primarily in the form of advice, guidance, innovation grants and access to finance.
Tourism NI is also developing a business resilience programme to deliver financial expertise for tourism businesses to provide a business healthcheck. Participating businesses will then receive a dedicated action plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045338%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482717"}},{"id":"482716","reference":"AQW 45337/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-05-01","answerBy":"2026-05-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether a formal protocol exists between his Department and the Department of Education to ensure continuity of support for young people with autism and learning disabilities at the point of transition.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045337%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482716"}},{"id":"482464","reference":"AQW 45220/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures that are in place to prevent a gap in support for autistic young people at the point of transition from children’s to adult services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045220%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482464","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482464"}},{"id":"482463","reference":"AQW 45219/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail at what age transition planning for autistic young people is typically initiated, in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Across Health and Social Care Trusts, transition planning for autistic young people is typically initiated between the ages of 16 and 18 with some variation depending on need and local service pathways. Trusts have advised the following:\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust: Children’s Psychological Services, including for autistic young people, are provided up to age 18. Transition to Adult Services is facilitated from age 16 where appropriate, including access to the Belfast Adult Autism Advice Service.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust: Paediatric Autism Services accept referrals up to age 17 years and 9 months, with onward referral to Adult Autism Services thereafter. Transition planning to Adult Services begins at age 16. A joint Paediatric–Adult Diagnostic Pathway is being piloted, and post-diagnostic support includes advisory services such as Northern Adult Autism Advisory Service from age 16.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism assessments are completed up to age 17 years and 9 months, with referrals to Adult Autism Services for those approaching age 18. Young people who have received a diagnosis, and their families, are provided with psychoeducation and autism strategies through workshops and groupwork, and are signposted to other services and supports. The Children and Young People’s Autism Service does not provide 1-1 intervention post-diagnosis. Transition planning is aligned to individual assessed need. Young people approaching age 18 may be referred to Adult Autism Services, with transitions managed through established pathways for any other services involved in their care.\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism Services may continue into adulthood (up to age 30 where required), meaning a defined transition point is not typically required within the Autism Service itself.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism Assessments are completed up to age 17 years and 9 months, with referrals to Adult Autism Services thereafter. Transition planning typically begins at age 17, or from age 16 where needs are more complex, and is aligned with education and other relevant service pathways. Children with Autism and co-occurring conditions e.g. including Intellectual Disability or ongoing mental health concerns follow the transition processes in place for these specific services.","answerHtml":"Across Health and Social Care Trusts, transition planning for autistic young people is typically initiated between the ages of 16 and 18 with some variation depending on need and local service pathways. Trusts have advised the following:
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust: Children’s Psychological Services, including for autistic young people, are provided up to age 18. Transition to Adult Services is facilitated from age 16 where appropriate, including access to the Belfast Adult Autism Advice Service.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust: Paediatric Autism Services accept referrals up to age 17 years and 9 months, with onward referral to Adult Autism Services thereafter. Transition planning to Adult Services begins at age 16. A joint Paediatric–Adult Diagnostic Pathway is being piloted, and post-diagnostic support includes advisory services such as Northern Adult Autism Advisory Service from age 16.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism assessments are completed up to age 17 years and 9 months, with referrals to Adult Autism Services for those approaching age 18. Young people who have received a diagnosis, and their families, are provided with psychoeducation and autism strategies through workshops and groupwork, and are signposted to other services and supports. The Children and Young People’s Autism Service does not provide 1-1 intervention post-diagnosis. Transition planning is aligned to individual assessed need. Young people approaching age 18 may be referred to Adult Autism Services, with transitions managed through established pathways for any other services involved in their care.
Southern Health and Social Care Trust: Autism Services may continue into adulthood (up to age 30 where required), meaning a defined transition point is not typically required within the Autism Service itself.
Western Health and Social Care Trust: Autism Assessments are completed up to age 17 years and 9 months, with referrals to Adult Autism Services thereafter. Transition planning typically begins at age 17, or from age 16 where needs are more complex, and is aligned with education and other relevant service pathways. Children with Autism and co-occurring conditions e.g. including Intellectual Disability or ongoing mental health concerns follow the transition processes in place for these specific services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045219%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482463","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482463"}},{"id":"482462","reference":"AQW 45218/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the proportion of young people previously supported under children’s services who are not deemed eligible for adult learning disability services following reassessment; and (ii) whether any alternative support is provided to those individuals.","answerText":"My Department recognises that the transition from Children to Adult Services for young people can be challenging, requiring coordinated health and social care support. My Department remains committed to ensuring that services are available to meet assessed needs during this transition.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for providing services in line with individual assessed needs, within available resources.\n\nHSCTs advise that data regarding the proportion of young people previously supported under Children’s Services who are not deemed eligible for Adult Learning Disability Services following reassessment is not routinely collated; however, HSCTs have indicated that numbers would be very small.\n\nHSCTs advise that the majority of young people previously supported in Childrens Services transition into Adult Learning Disability Services, following established pathways. HSCTs report that a small cohort of children may require reassessment in advance of transition. This reassessment occurs when there is a query, change in diagnosis or where it is considered that needs may be more appropriately met by another Adult Service or Programme of Care. In such cases, individuals should be signposted or referred to the most appropriate alternative statutory or communitybased support available, aligned to their assessed needs.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises that the transition from Children to Adult Services for young people can be challenging, requiring coordinated health and social care support. My Department remains committed to ensuring that services are available to meet assessed needs during this transition.
Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for providing services in line with individual assessed needs, within available resources.
HSCTs advise that data regarding the proportion of young people previously supported under Children’s Services who are not deemed eligible for Adult Learning Disability Services following reassessment is not routinely collated; however, HSCTs have indicated that numbers would be very small.
HSCTs advise that the majority of young people previously supported in Childrens Services transition into Adult Learning Disability Services, following established pathways. HSCTs report that a small cohort of children may require reassessment in advance of transition. This reassessment occurs when there is a query, change in diagnosis or where it is considered that needs may be more appropriately met by another Adult Service or Programme of Care. In such cases, individuals should be signposted or referred to the most appropriate alternative statutory or communitybased support available, aligned to their assessed needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045218%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482462"}},{"id":"482461","reference":"AQW 45217/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has made any assessment of the effectiveness of the transition arrangements for autistic young people moving from children’s to adult services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045217%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482461"}},{"id":"482460","reference":"AQW 45216/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-30","answerBy":"2026-05-18","answered":"2026-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment that has been made of the financial risks to the Police Service of Northern Ireland, if holiday pay liabilities are not resolved in a timely manner.","answerText":"Holiday pay is a cross-departmental issue requiring engagement with the Executive and the Department of Finance to explore potential funding options.\n\nMy officials are currently considering the PSNI Holiday Pay business case which must satisfy the requisite approvals process, including approval by the Department of Finance. The business case includes a risk appraisal of the potential financial risks to the PSNI, including on delay, if holiday pay liabilities are not resolved in a timely manner.\n\nWhile I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I want to reassure you that my officials are working closely and constructively with the PSNI to progress the Holiday Pay business case as quickly as possible.\n\nHowever, I would stress that Holiday Pay is an exceptional pressure that is wholly unaffordable under any circumstances within existing or future PSNI and Department of Justice baseline budgets.","answerHtml":"Holiday pay is a cross-departmental issue requiring engagement with the Executive and the Department of Finance to explore potential funding options.
My officials are currently considering the PSNI Holiday Pay business case which must satisfy the requisite approvals process, including approval by the Department of Finance. The business case includes a risk appraisal of the potential financial risks to the PSNI, including on delay, if holiday pay liabilities are not resolved in a timely manner.
While I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I want to reassure you that my officials are working closely and constructively with the PSNI to progress the Holiday Pay business case as quickly as possible.
However, I would stress that Holiday Pay is an exceptional pressure that is wholly unaffordable under any circumstances within existing or future PSNI and Department of Justice baseline budgets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045216%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482460"}},{"id":"482239","reference":"AQW 45099/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-29","answerBy":"2026-05-15","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration he has given to regulating individuals or organisations that provide paid assistance with Personal Independence Payment applications.","answerText":"I am aware of the increasing prevalence of online organisations offering paid assistance with Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applications and have sought legal advice about potential regulation. Where suspected fraud is identified, including where it arises from the actions or involvement of third parties, those individuals or organisations will be investigated fully.\n\nThe Department provides annual funding of approximately £7.7 million to the independent advice and debt sector in Northern Ireland to deliver free, and impartial advice. A reminder about these reputable and free advice services, and the services including outreach delivered by Make the Call, has been posted by the Department on social media channels.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the increasing prevalence of online organisations offering paid assistance with Personal Independence Payment (PIP) applications and have sought legal advice about potential regulation. Where suspected fraud is identified, including where it arises from the actions or involvement of third parties, those individuals or organisations will be investigated fully.
The Department provides annual funding of approximately £7.7 million to the independent advice and debt sector in Northern Ireland to deliver free, and impartial advice. A reminder about these reputable and free advice services, and the services including outreach delivered by Make the Call, has been posted by the Department on social media channels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045099%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482239"}},{"id":"482238","reference":"AQW 45098/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-29","answerBy":"2026-05-15","answered":"2026-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any engagement that has taken place with her Department and the Department of Finance, regarding funding options for the Police Service of Northern Ireland holiday pay liabilities; and (ii) any options that are currently under consideration.","answerText":"I appreciate fully the length of time this matter has been ongoing, and I recognise the frustration and uncertainty experienced by current and former PSNI officers and staff whose claims span more than a decade. The Supreme Court judgment in October 2023 has provided important legal clarity, and the Department is therefore treating the resolution of this issue as a priority.\n\nHoliday Pay is an exceptional pressure and whilst I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I want to reassure you that my department is working closely and constructively with the PSNI to progress the Holiday Pay business case as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"I appreciate fully the length of time this matter has been ongoing, and I recognise the frustration and uncertainty experienced by current and former PSNI officers and staff whose claims span more than a decade. The Supreme Court judgment in October 2023 has provided important legal clarity, and the Department is therefore treating the resolution of this issue as a priority.
Holiday Pay is an exceptional pressure and whilst I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I want to reassure you that my department is working closely and constructively with the PSNI to progress the Holiday Pay business case as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045098%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482238","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482238"}},{"id":"482237","reference":"AQW 45097/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-29","answerBy":"2026-05-15","answered":"2026-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department takes when it becomes aware that a third party has provided false or misleading information in a Personal Independence Payment application, without the claimant’s knowledge.","answerText":"All allegations of benefit fraud received by my Department are examined, including cases involving false or misleading information provided by a third party.\n\nWhere appropriate, a fraud investigation is undertaken to establish if the allegation can be substantiated. Consideration is also given to whether the claimant was complicit in the fraud, a witness to it, or a victim of it.","answerHtml":"All allegations of benefit fraud received by my Department are examined, including cases involving false or misleading information provided by a third party.
Where appropriate, a fraud investigation is undertaken to establish if the allegation can be substantiated. Consideration is also given to whether the claimant was complicit in the fraud, a witness to it, or a victim of it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045097%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482237"}},{"id":"482236","reference":"AQW 45096/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-29","answerBy":"2026-05-15","answered":"2026-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) whether any assessment has been made of the potential impact of rising commercial rents on access to grassroots sport, including for people with disabilities; and (ii) any steps he is taking to ensure that inclusive sporting opportunities are protected.","answerText":"Neither my Department nor Sport NI is aware of any assessment having been undertaken on the potential impact of rising commercial rents on access to grassroots sport, including for people with disabilities. Commercial rent levels are a matter for landlords and individual clubs or organisations and are not within the remit of my Department.\n\nHowever, I will continue to support grassroots participation and inclusive sporting opportunities through a range of funding programmes and partnership working. This will be delivered in line with the priorities and objectives of the Active Living Strategy, including targeted support for underrepresented groups and people with disabilities.\n\nPublic investment remains an important means of supporting disability and inclusive sport. Through Exchequer and National Lottery funding, my Department and Sport NI provide core and targeted support for inclusive participation.\n\nThe Chief Executive of Sport NI, the Department’s delivery partner with responsibility for advancing inclusive sporting opportunities under the Active Living Strategy, has advised:\n\n“Sport NI are not aware of rising commercial rents impact on access to grassroots sports.\n\nSport NI will continue to fund inclusive sporting opportunities via future funding programmes, and through annual funding to Disability Sport NI (DSNI) and Special Olympics Ulster.\n\nOver the three-year period from 2023/24 to 2025/26 DSNI received total funding of £2,453,198 through a combination of Exchequer (£1,463,400) and National Lottery investment (£989,978). National Lottery funding to DSNI supports Boccia and Wheelchair Basketball and includes athlete awards.\n\nDuring the same period, Special Olympics received £2,037,540 in Exchequer funding. This funding supports the delivery of year-round sporting and competition opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.\n\nIn addition, from 2024/25 to 2025/26 Sport NI have provided a total of £50,000 in funding specifically for disability/inclusive sport projects through the Creating Opportunities Programme.”","answerHtml":"Neither my Department nor Sport NI is aware of any assessment having been undertaken on the potential impact of rising commercial rents on access to grassroots sport, including for people with disabilities. Commercial rent levels are a matter for landlords and individual clubs or organisations and are not within the remit of my Department.
However, I will continue to support grassroots participation and inclusive sporting opportunities through a range of funding programmes and partnership working. This will be delivered in line with the priorities and objectives of the Active Living Strategy, including targeted support for underrepresented groups and people with disabilities.
Public investment remains an important means of supporting disability and inclusive sport. Through Exchequer and National Lottery funding, my Department and Sport NI provide core and targeted support for inclusive participation.
The Chief Executive of Sport NI, the Department’s delivery partner with responsibility for advancing inclusive sporting opportunities under the Active Living Strategy, has advised:
“Sport NI are not aware of rising commercial rents impact on access to grassroots sports.
Sport NI will continue to fund inclusive sporting opportunities via future funding programmes, and through annual funding to Disability Sport NI (DSNI) and Special Olympics Ulster.
Over the three-year period from 2023/24 to 2025/26 DSNI received total funding of £2,453,198 through a combination of Exchequer (£1,463,400) and National Lottery investment (£989,978). National Lottery funding to DSNI supports Boccia and Wheelchair Basketball and includes athlete awards.
During the same period, Special Olympics received £2,037,540 in Exchequer funding. This funding supports the delivery of year-round sporting and competition opportunities for athletes with intellectual disabilities.
In addition, from 2024/25 to 2025/26 Sport NI have provided a total of £50,000 in funding specifically for disability/inclusive sport projects through the Creating Opportunities Programme.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045096%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482236","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482236"}},{"id":"482235","reference":"AQW 45095/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-29","answerBy":"2026-05-15","answered":"2026-08-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether patients are routinely offered a choice in how they receive appointment notifications, including how this is facilitated across Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.\n\nMy Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.\n\nThe Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.\n\nIn addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.\n\nMost outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.\n\nTo further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.\n\nFurthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.","answerHtml":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.
My Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.
The Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.
In addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.
Most outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.
To further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.
Furthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045095%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482235"}},{"id":"482012","reference":"AQW 44976/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-28","answerBy":"2026-05-14","answered":"2026-08-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any arrangements in place to ensure that patients who rely solely on postal communication are not disadvantaged by delays in appointment notifications.","answerText":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.\n\nMy Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.\n\nThe Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.\n\nIn addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.\n\nMost outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.\n\nTo further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.\n\nFurthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.","answerHtml":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.
My Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.
The Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.
In addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.
Most outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.
To further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.
Furthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044976%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482012","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482012"}},{"id":"482011","reference":"AQW 44975/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-28","answerBy":"2026-05-14","answered":"2026-08-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any guidance is in place to prevent the use of delayed or economy postal services for time-sensitive appointment letters.","answerText":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.\n\nMy Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.\n\nThe Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.\n\nIn addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.\n\nMost outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.\n\nTo further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.\n\nFurthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.","answerHtml":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.
My Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.
The Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.
In addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.
Most outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.
To further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.
Furthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044975%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482011","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482011"}},{"id":"482010","reference":"AQW 44974/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-28","answerBy":"2026-05-14","answered":"2026-08-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps that are being taken to ensure that vulnerable patients, including older people, receive appointment information in a timely and accessible manner.","answerText":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.\n\nMy Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.\n\nThe Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.\n\nIn addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.\n\nMost outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.\n\nTo further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.\n\nFurthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.","answerHtml":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.
My Department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.
The Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.
In addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.
Most outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.
To further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.
Furthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044974%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482010","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482010"}},{"id":"482009","reference":"AQW 44973/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-28","answerBy":"2026-05-14","answered":"2026-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of patients who have missed appointments where postal delays were identified as a contributing factor, in each of the last 12 months; and (ii) any steps that are being taken to address this.","answerText":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.\n\nMy department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.\n\nThe Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.\n\nIn addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.\n\nMost outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.\n\nTo further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.\n\nFurthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.","answerHtml":"There is currently no regionally agreed method for recording whether missed appointments are a result of delayed or undelivered postal communications. Consequently, data is not available on the number of patients who may have missed an appointment for this reason.
My department has not undertaken an assessment of the postal service currently used by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and no assessment has been made on the use of Royal Mail’s economy postal services. HSC Trusts manage postal delivery performance through established contractual and supplier arrangements and can raise concerns regarding delays in patient correspondence directly with providers.
The Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP) sets out good practice for managing the elective care pathway and waiting lists. It includes specific provisions for time-critical referrals, such as Two-Week Wait (red flag/suspect cancer) cases, and for services involving children or adults at risk. In such circumstances, local agreements with clinicians are in place to ensure that where an appointment is missed, a second appointment is always offered.
In addition, patients who are unable to attend their appointment due to unforeseen or exceptional circumstances, including postal delivery delays, have a four-week period in which to contact their HSC Trust to be reinstated on the waiting list from the original appointment date. This helps ensure that patients are not disadvantaged due to missed notifications.
Most outpatient services operate a partial booking system, where patients agree their appointment date and time by telephone in advance and this is then confirmed in writing, typically with at least three weeks’ notice. This approach gives patients greater control over their appointments and reduces reliance on postal notifications alone.
To further mitigate the impact of any potential postal delays, and help improve alternative methods of patient communication, my Department has provided recurrent funding to HSC Trusts to support a dual notification system, with text message reminders issued alongside appointment letters across most services. This aims to provide a timely and convenient method of communication, especially when postal services may be delayed, helping to reduce the number of ‘Did Not Attend’ (DNAs) by prompting attendance and giving patients the opportunity to cancel or reschedule their appointments, ensuring valuable appointment slots can be offered to other patients.
Furthermore, the My Care app provides patients and service users with secure access to a subset of their Health and Social Care record, including appointment details, clinic letters, medication details and some test results. HSC Trusts are actively encouraging patients and service users to sign up for the My Care app.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044973%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482009"}},{"id":"482008","reference":"AQW 44972/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-28","answerBy":"2026-05-14","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any engagement her Department has had with other Executive Departments to develop a coordinated, long-term approach to addressing wastewater infrastructure constraints, impacting housing and economic development.","answerText":"I regularly engage with Executive colleagues to advocate for an increase in wastewater investment to modernise our ageing wastewater system to facilitate housing growth and economic development, and to address environmental issues.\n\nThis engagement has included a meeting with Minister Lyons on 30th June 2025 to discuss wastewater constraints and the housing supply strategy. Following that meeting my officials now participate in the Housing Supply Strategy Project Board. This engagement is in addition to my Department’s engagement with a cross-departmental working group alongside the Housing Executive, NI Water, NIEA and DAERA, to identify opportunities to unlock wastewater capacity for housing.\n\nI also met Minister Archibald on 13th January 2026 to discuss innovative wastewater solutions for businesses, and have met regularly with Minister Muir, most recently on 9th March 2026, to discuss the regulatory reform programme he detailed in his statement to the Assembly on Tuesday 3rd March 2026.","answerHtml":"I regularly engage with Executive colleagues to advocate for an increase in wastewater investment to modernise our ageing wastewater system to facilitate housing growth and economic development, and to address environmental issues.
This engagement has included a meeting with Minister Lyons on 30th June 2025 to discuss wastewater constraints and the housing supply strategy. Following that meeting my officials now participate in the Housing Supply Strategy Project Board. This engagement is in addition to my Department’s engagement with a cross-departmental working group alongside the Housing Executive, NI Water, NIEA and DAERA, to identify opportunities to unlock wastewater capacity for housing.
I also met Minister Archibald on 13th January 2026 to discuss innovative wastewater solutions for businesses, and have met regularly with Minister Muir, most recently on 9th March 2026, to discuss the regulatory reform programme he detailed in his statement to the Assembly on Tuesday 3rd March 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044972%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=482008","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=482008"}},{"id":"481743","reference":"AQW 44859/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any consideration her Department has given to changes to the current funding model for wastewater infrastructure, to ensure it can meet long-term demand.","answerText":"My department has undertaken a number of historic reviews into NI Water’s funding and governance model. The most recent review, in June 25, concluded that all alternative models require water charging and I have been clear that I will not introduce additional costs to hard pressed families.\n\nI am therefore continuing to work with Executive colleagues to secure adequate funding for water and wastewater services, progressing with developer contributions and bringing forward the Water, Sustainable Drainage and Flood Risk Management Bill to facilitate greater use of nature based solutions.\n\nIn addition, I continue to encourage NI Water to bring forward innovative thinking to help unlock wastewater capacity through quicker, lowercost solutions within current funding constraints.","answerHtml":"My department has undertaken a number of historic reviews into NI Water’s funding and governance model. The most recent review, in June 25, concluded that all alternative models require water charging and I have been clear that I will not introduce additional costs to hard pressed families.
I am therefore continuing to work with Executive colleagues to secure adequate funding for water and wastewater services, progressing with developer contributions and bringing forward the Water, Sustainable Drainage and Flood Risk Management Bill to facilitate greater use of nature based solutions.
In addition, I continue to encourage NI Water to bring forward innovative thinking to help unlock wastewater capacity through quicker, lowercost solutions within current funding constraints.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044859%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481743"}},{"id":"481742","reference":"AQW 44858/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of housing units in the Causeway Coast and Glens local council area that cannot currently proceed, due to wastewater infrastructure constraints.","answerText":"The management of the public water and wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. I have sought further information from NI Water to inform the response to your question.\n\nNI Water has advised that as a statutory consultee in the planning process it can only make recommendations to local planning authorities following a consultation request. The local planning authority is the decision maker on whether a planning application is approved.\n\nIn that context, NI Water has advised that based on the latest statistics available it has recommended the refusal of 901 housing units in the Causeway Coast and Glens local council area. Some of these applications have the potential to connect pending engagement with NI Water, and the agreement and delivery of a suitable solution. This is a developer led process and the developer needs to determine if any agreed solution is commercially viable. In addition to these applications NI Water has advised of one further housing unit in the council area that will not get a connection to the public foul network due to its location in a closed catchment area.","answerHtml":"The management of the public water and wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. I have sought further information from NI Water to inform the response to your question.
NI Water has advised that as a statutory consultee in the planning process it can only make recommendations to local planning authorities following a consultation request. The local planning authority is the decision maker on whether a planning application is approved.
In that context, NI Water has advised that based on the latest statistics available it has recommended the refusal of 901 housing units in the Causeway Coast and Glens local council area. Some of these applications have the potential to connect pending engagement with NI Water, and the agreement and delivery of a suitable solution. This is a developer led process and the developer needs to determine if any agreed solution is commercially viable. In addition to these applications NI Water has advised of one further housing unit in the council area that will not get a connection to the public foul network due to its location in a closed catchment area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044858%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481742","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481742"}},{"id":"481741","reference":"AQW 44857/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any assessment her Department has made of (i) the impact of Transformation funding on housing developments delayed due to wastewater capacity constraints; and (ii) how this is informing plans to increase wastewater infrastructure capacity in areas where housing demand is highest.","answerText":"I have secured £15 million from the Public Sector Transformation Fund during the four-year period from 2025/26 to 2028/29, to develop and deliver a pilot project that will use nature-based solutions to help transform our urban drainage systems, the implementation of which will help reduce the pressure on our constrained drainage and wastewater infrastructure.\n\n(i) While not directly designed to release additional capacity for properties to connect to the sewerage network, this project should demonstrate the effectiveness of sustainable drainage measures in managing surface water flows in the urban area, helping to reduce flood risk and improve water quality, and therefore have a contributory effect on alleviating the stress on the wastewater system.\n\n(ii) Since October 2024, my predecessor and I have provided an additional £30million of additional capital funding allocations to NI Water which have unlocked wastewater capacity for over 5,300 properties across the North. My Department is continuing to work collaboratively with DAERA, DFC, NI Water and the NI Housing Executive to identify and enable the unlocking of wastewater capacity in areas of housing need, thereby contributing to the aims and objectives of the of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy.","answerHtml":"I have secured £15 million from the Public Sector Transformation Fund during the four-year period from 2025/26 to 2028/29, to develop and deliver a pilot project that will use nature-based solutions to help transform our urban drainage systems, the implementation of which will help reduce the pressure on our constrained drainage and wastewater infrastructure.
(i) While not directly designed to release additional capacity for properties to connect to the sewerage network, this project should demonstrate the effectiveness of sustainable drainage measures in managing surface water flows in the urban area, helping to reduce flood risk and improve water quality, and therefore have a contributory effect on alleviating the stress on the wastewater system.
(ii) Since October 2024, my predecessor and I have provided an additional £30million of additional capital funding allocations to NI Water which have unlocked wastewater capacity for over 5,300 properties across the North. My Department is continuing to work collaboratively with DAERA, DFC, NI Water and the NI Housing Executive to identify and enable the unlocking of wastewater capacity in areas of housing need, thereby contributing to the aims and objectives of the of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044857%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481741"}},{"id":"481740","reference":"AQW 44856/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the amount of Transformation funding that has been allocated to wastewater infrastructure projects by her Department, to date.","answerText":"I have secured £15 million from the Public Sector Transformation Fund during the four-year period from 2025/26 to 2028/29, to develop and deliver a pilot project that will use nature-based solutions to help transform our urban drainage systems, the implementation of which will help reduce the pressure on our constrained drainage and wastewater infrastructure.\n\n(i) While not directly designed to release additional capacity for properties to connect to the sewerage network, this project should demonstrate the effectiveness of sustainable drainage measures in managing surface water flows in the urban area, helping to reduce flood risk and improve water quality, and therefore have a contributory effect on alleviating the stress on the wastewater system.\n\n(ii) Since October 2024, my predecessor and I have provided an additional £30million of additional capital funding allocations to NI Water which have unlocked wastewater capacity for over 5,300 properties across the North. My Department is continuing to work collaboratively with DAERA, DFC, NI Water and the NI Housing Executive to identify and enable the unlocking of wastewater capacity in areas of housing need, thereby contributing to the aims and objectives of the of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy.","answerHtml":"I have secured £15 million from the Public Sector Transformation Fund during the four-year period from 2025/26 to 2028/29, to develop and deliver a pilot project that will use nature-based solutions to help transform our urban drainage systems, the implementation of which will help reduce the pressure on our constrained drainage and wastewater infrastructure.
(i) While not directly designed to release additional capacity for properties to connect to the sewerage network, this project should demonstrate the effectiveness of sustainable drainage measures in managing surface water flows in the urban area, helping to reduce flood risk and improve water quality, and therefore have a contributory effect on alleviating the stress on the wastewater system.
(ii) Since October 2024, my predecessor and I have provided an additional £30million of additional capital funding allocations to NI Water which have unlocked wastewater capacity for over 5,300 properties across the North. My Department is continuing to work collaboratively with DAERA, DFC, NI Water and the NI Housing Executive to identify and enable the unlocking of wastewater capacity in areas of housing need, thereby contributing to the aims and objectives of the of the Executive’s Housing Supply Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044856%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481740","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481740"}},{"id":"481739","reference":"AQW 44855/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-27","answerBy":"2026-05-13","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail whether any (i) assessment has been made of the effectiveness of current measures to reduce Emergency Department waiting times; and (ii) further actions are planned.","answerText":"Emergency Departments (EDs) across Northern Ireland are currently operating under sustained and unprecedented pressure, with very high levels of demand combined with significant challenges in admitting patients to wards. This leads directly to extended waiting times within ED and can result in patients with urgent needs waiting far longer than is acceptable. While triage helps ensure the most critically ill are prioritised, I recognise that this does not lessen the anxiety or risk associated with long delays for those waiting to be seen.\n\nImproving the performance of EDs remains a key priority for both my department and Trusts, and work is ongoing to reduce overcrowding and improve patient flow. Following recent investment from my department, urgent care centres, minor injury units and Phone First services are fully established and operational across the region, helping to divert demand away from EDs where appropriate and ensuring patients could access the right care, in the right place, at the right time. Funding has also been provided to expand Hospital at Home and Same Day Emergency Care services, enabling more patients to be treated in the community or on the same day avoiding prolonged waits in ED. Additional support for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has strengthened Hear and Treat and See and Treat pathways in order to reduce avoidable conveyances to ED. Further emergency medicine consultants have been recruited to enhance senior clinical decisionmaking and departmental resilience.\n\nImproving social care flow is another key component of hospital throughput. Early Review Teams have now reviewed more than 4,100 individuals, with almost half requiring reduced or no homecare support, releasing over 12,000 weekly hours of capacity regionally. In 2025-26 alone, revised Early Review criteria have released an additional 4,961 hours per week.\n\nOn 27 April 2026, the Release to Rescue element of the Regional Ambulance Handover Guidance was initiated across the province, where clinical responsibility for patients will be handed over to the receiving Trust within two hours of arrival at an ED, allowing the ambulance crew to return immediately to operational duty. This new protocol will take some time to become fully effective, but its launch represents a significant step towards improving response capacity and improving patient experience.\n\nTaken together, these actions are focused on improving flow through hospitals, reducing congestion in EDs, and ensuring patients receive timely, safe and effective care. These changes are essential, but it will take time for the full impact to be consistently felt by patients.","answerHtml":"Emergency Departments (EDs) across Northern Ireland are currently operating under sustained and unprecedented pressure, with very high levels of demand combined with significant challenges in admitting patients to wards. This leads directly to extended waiting times within ED and can result in patients with urgent needs waiting far longer than is acceptable. While triage helps ensure the most critically ill are prioritised, I recognise that this does not lessen the anxiety or risk associated with long delays for those waiting to be seen.
Improving the performance of EDs remains a key priority for both my department and Trusts, and work is ongoing to reduce overcrowding and improve patient flow. Following recent investment from my department, urgent care centres, minor injury units and Phone First services are fully established and operational across the region, helping to divert demand away from EDs where appropriate and ensuring patients could access the right care, in the right place, at the right time. Funding has also been provided to expand Hospital at Home and Same Day Emergency Care services, enabling more patients to be treated in the community or on the same day avoiding prolonged waits in ED. Additional support for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has strengthened Hear and Treat and See and Treat pathways in order to reduce avoidable conveyances to ED. Further emergency medicine consultants have been recruited to enhance senior clinical decisionmaking and departmental resilience.
Improving social care flow is another key component of hospital throughput. Early Review Teams have now reviewed more than 4,100 individuals, with almost half requiring reduced or no homecare support, releasing over 12,000 weekly hours of capacity regionally. In 2025-26 alone, revised Early Review criteria have released an additional 4,961 hours per week.
On 27 April 2026, the Release to Rescue element of the Regional Ambulance Handover Guidance was initiated across the province, where clinical responsibility for patients will be handed over to the receiving Trust within two hours of arrival at an ED, allowing the ambulance crew to return immediately to operational duty. This new protocol will take some time to become fully effective, but its launch represents a significant step towards improving response capacity and improving patient experience.
Taken together, these actions are focused on improving flow through hospitals, reducing congestion in EDs, and ensuring patients receive timely, safe and effective care. These changes are essential, but it will take time for the full impact to be consistently felt by patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044855%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481739","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481739"}},{"id":"481538","reference":"AQW 44742/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps that are being taken to increase social care provision in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust to reduce delays in discharging patients from Causeway Area Hospital.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044742%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481538","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481538"}},{"id":"481537","reference":"AQW 44741/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of ambulance handover times at Causeway Area Hospital, including the impact on ambulance availability across the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"I recognise that ambulance handover delays have a direct impact on the capacity of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to respond to emergency calls. Preventing and reducing such delays is therefore a priority for my department and for Health and Social Care (HSC) services.\n\nAmbulance handover times at Causeway Hospital, as with other acute hospital sites, are routinely monitored at Trust, regional and departmental level. This monitoring includes ongoing assessment of any impact on ambulance availability across the Northern HSC Trust area. Where handover delays are identified, these are escalated through established operational and performance management arrangements to enable prompt intervention. In 2025/26, the average ambulance handover time at Causeway Hospital was 1 hour 24 minutes, representing an improvement from 1 hour 39 minutes in 2024/25. While these improvements reflect the sustained efforts of NIAS and Northern HSC Trust staff, further work remains necessary to consistently reduce handover delays.\n\nA regional approach has been taken to address ambulance handover delays and improve patient flow. These include the introduction of the ‘Release to Rescue’ initiative, which is specifically designed to reduce ambulance handover delays exceeding two hours. The two-hour maximum is an important step within a wider, phased approach to reducing handover delays overall, with the longer term aim of achieving the 15-minute standard. Under this approach, patients who are clinically appropriate are transferred from ambulances into a designated area within the Emergency Department (ED), allowing ambulance crews to be released back into service more quickly while ensuring patient safety and continued care.\n\nIn addition, the Northern HSC Trust has implemented a number of supporting measures, including strengthened escalation and surge arrangements during periods of high demand, enhanced senior clinical oversight in EDs, and initiatives to improve flow throughout the hospital, particularly at times of pressure. Work has also been ongoing to increase the use of same-day emergency care (SDEC), improve discharge processes, and ensure that community and intermediate care pathways are utilised effectively to reduce avoidable admissions and support timely discharges.\n\nMy department continues to work closely with the Northern HSC Trust and NIAS to ensure that ambulance handover delays at Causeway Hospital are kept under close review and that further improvement actions are taken where necessary. Reducing ambulance handover delays remains a key priority as part of wider efforts to stabilise emergency care services and protect the ability of NIAS to respond to those who need urgent and emergency care across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I recognise that ambulance handover delays have a direct impact on the capacity of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) to respond to emergency calls. Preventing and reducing such delays is therefore a priority for my department and for Health and Social Care (HSC) services.
Ambulance handover times at Causeway Hospital, as with other acute hospital sites, are routinely monitored at Trust, regional and departmental level. This monitoring includes ongoing assessment of any impact on ambulance availability across the Northern HSC Trust area. Where handover delays are identified, these are escalated through established operational and performance management arrangements to enable prompt intervention. In 2025/26, the average ambulance handover time at Causeway Hospital was 1 hour 24 minutes, representing an improvement from 1 hour 39 minutes in 2024/25. While these improvements reflect the sustained efforts of NIAS and Northern HSC Trust staff, further work remains necessary to consistently reduce handover delays.
A regional approach has been taken to address ambulance handover delays and improve patient flow. These include the introduction of the ‘Release to Rescue’ initiative, which is specifically designed to reduce ambulance handover delays exceeding two hours. The two-hour maximum is an important step within a wider, phased approach to reducing handover delays overall, with the longer term aim of achieving the 15-minute standard. Under this approach, patients who are clinically appropriate are transferred from ambulances into a designated area within the Emergency Department (ED), allowing ambulance crews to be released back into service more quickly while ensuring patient safety and continued care.
In addition, the Northern HSC Trust has implemented a number of supporting measures, including strengthened escalation and surge arrangements during periods of high demand, enhanced senior clinical oversight in EDs, and initiatives to improve flow throughout the hospital, particularly at times of pressure. Work has also been ongoing to increase the use of same-day emergency care (SDEC), improve discharge processes, and ensure that community and intermediate care pathways are utilised effectively to reduce avoidable admissions and support timely discharges.
My department continues to work closely with the Northern HSC Trust and NIAS to ensure that ambulance handover delays at Causeway Hospital are kept under close review and that further improvement actions are taken where necessary. Reducing ambulance handover delays remains a key priority as part of wider efforts to stabilise emergency care services and protect the ability of NIAS to respond to those who need urgent and emergency care across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044741%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481537","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481537"}},{"id":"481536","reference":"AQW 44740/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact of Emergency Department overcrowding on patient safety at Causeway Area Hospital.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044740%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481536","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481536"}},{"id":"481535","reference":"AQW 44739/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact of delayed discharges within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust on patient flow through the Emergency Department at Causeway Area Hospital.","answerText":"I recognise that delayed discharges can impact patient flow within hospitals, including through the Emergency Department (ED) at Causeway Area Hospital, and this remains an ongoing focus for my Department and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nThe Northern Trust monitors patient flow at Causeway Area Hospital through established indicators such as ED waiting times, patients waiting over 12 hours, bed occupancy, and data on delayed discharges, including reasons for and length of delay. This information is used to assess system pressures and the extent to which discharge delays impact flow from ED.\n\nWhile it is not possible to fully isolate the impact of delayed discharges from other pressures such as demand and workforce constraints, reduced discharge capacity is known to contribute to higher bed occupancy, limiting the Trust’s ability to admit patients promptly and contributing to ED overcrowding and extended waits.\n\nIn 2025/26, £12 million of repurposed funding was allocated regionally to support Unscheduled Care Improvement Plans. In the Northern Trust, this supported additional capacity, investment in Hospital at Home, enhanced frailty assessment, and strengthened discharge coordination and community support. Further targeted measures included enhanced senior nursing in EDs, frailty in-reach, early intervention teams, anticipatory care planning, and increased Same Day Emergency Care activity to reduce avoidable admissions and pressure on inpatient beds.\n\nPerformance and delivery continue to be monitored through established oversight arrangements. While these actions have supported active management of pressures, performance reflects the ongoing imbalance between demand and available capacity, reinforcing the need for sustained action to improve patient flow and discharge capacity within the Northern Trust.","answerHtml":"I recognise that delayed discharges can impact patient flow within hospitals, including through the Emergency Department (ED) at Causeway Area Hospital, and this remains an ongoing focus for my Department and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.
The Northern Trust monitors patient flow at Causeway Area Hospital through established indicators such as ED waiting times, patients waiting over 12 hours, bed occupancy, and data on delayed discharges, including reasons for and length of delay. This information is used to assess system pressures and the extent to which discharge delays impact flow from ED.
While it is not possible to fully isolate the impact of delayed discharges from other pressures such as demand and workforce constraints, reduced discharge capacity is known to contribute to higher bed occupancy, limiting the Trust’s ability to admit patients promptly and contributing to ED overcrowding and extended waits.
In 2025/26, £12 million of repurposed funding was allocated regionally to support Unscheduled Care Improvement Plans. In the Northern Trust, this supported additional capacity, investment in Hospital at Home, enhanced frailty assessment, and strengthened discharge coordination and community support. Further targeted measures included enhanced senior nursing in EDs, frailty in-reach, early intervention teams, anticipatory care planning, and increased Same Day Emergency Care activity to reduce avoidable admissions and pressure on inpatient beds.
Performance and delivery continue to be monitored through established oversight arrangements. While these actions have supported active management of pressures, performance reflects the ongoing imbalance between demand and available capacity, reinforcing the need for sustained action to improve patient flow and discharge capacity within the Northern Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044739%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481535","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481535"}},{"id":"481534","reference":"AQW 44738/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-24","answerBy":"2026-05-12","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how his Department ensures coordination with other public bodies when changes to a Universal Credit claim result in reassessments across multiple systems.","answerText":"The Universal Credit system automatically updates citizen information through a central Customer Information System, alerts may be issued to other benefit systems depending on the change reported. Processes are also in place to gather and exchange further information with other systems, if required, to support reassessments.","answerHtml":"The Universal Credit system automatically updates citizen information through a central Customer Information System, alerts may be issued to other benefit systems depending on the change reported. Processes are also in place to gather and exchange further information with other systems, if required, to support reassessments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044738%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481534","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481534"}},{"id":"481347","reference":"AQW 44625/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-23","answerBy":"2026-05-11","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration his Department has given to the administrative burden placed on claimants with disabilities when required to repeatedly re-engage with Universal Credit processes.","answerText":"The Universal Credit service is tailored to the individual needs of claimants, with ongoing engagement necessary to ensure claimants continue to receive their full entitlement.\n\nUniversal Credit provides claimants with 24/7 access to manage their online account. This provides the opportunity to report changes to their circumstances when they happen, seek additional support, and engage with their case manager and work coach, if applicable, via their journal.\n\nShould any claimant, including those with disabilities, require additional support to manage their claim, this will be considered based on the needs of the individual. Those claimants who cannot access services online, can make and maintain a non-digital application via telephone.","answerHtml":"The Universal Credit service is tailored to the individual needs of claimants, with ongoing engagement necessary to ensure claimants continue to receive their full entitlement.
Universal Credit provides claimants with 24/7 access to manage their online account. This provides the opportunity to report changes to their circumstances when they happen, seek additional support, and engage with their case manager and work coach, if applicable, via their journal.
Should any claimant, including those with disabilities, require additional support to manage their claim, this will be considered based on the needs of the individual. Those claimants who cannot access services online, can make and maintain a non-digital application via telephone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044625%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481347"}},{"id":"481346","reference":"AQW 44624/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-23","answerBy":"2026-05-11","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any assessment has been made of how Universal Credit supports claimants with disabilities who enter further or higher education as a pathway towards employment.","answerText":"Universal Credit provides personalised support based on a claimant’s individual circumstances, including any disabilities and education status where relevant. Where appropriate, further or higher education can be recognised as part of a claimant’s journey towards employment.","answerHtml":"Universal Credit provides personalised support based on a claimant’s individual circumstances, including any disabilities and education status where relevant. Where appropriate, further or higher education can be recognised as part of a claimant’s journey towards employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481346"}},{"id":"481345","reference":"AQW 44623/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-23","answerBy":"2026-05-11","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps being taken to ensure stability of support for claimants with disabilities, particularly where interruptions to payments may have wider impacts on health or housing.","answerText":"Once entitlement is established, claimants receive regular benefit payments which provide a range of support, including help with housing, health costs, and the extra living costs arising from long-term conditions or disabilities. Claimants migrating from legacy benefits to Universal Credit are supported with a non-repayable 'run-on' of their legacy benefits for a period of two weeks. Those in financial need may be able to get help from the Discretionary Support Service. This includes the Universal Credit New Claims Grants which may be considered to provide short-term financial assistance to bridge the gap in income for vulnerable households waiting on their first, or second, Universal Credit payment.\n\nThese grants are non-repayable and provide crucial support to vulnerable households to help meet their basic essential needs, including housing costs, heat, utilities, toiletries and hygiene products, especially in the current economic climate with rising costs of living.","answerHtml":"Once entitlement is established, claimants receive regular benefit payments which provide a range of support, including help with housing, health costs, and the extra living costs arising from long-term conditions or disabilities. Claimants migrating from legacy benefits to Universal Credit are supported with a non-repayable 'run-on' of their legacy benefits for a period of two weeks. Those in financial need may be able to get help from the Discretionary Support Service. This includes the Universal Credit New Claims Grants which may be considered to provide short-term financial assistance to bridge the gap in income for vulnerable households waiting on their first, or second, Universal Credit payment.
These grants are non-repayable and provide crucial support to vulnerable households to help meet their basic essential needs, including housing costs, heat, utilities, toiletries and hygiene products, especially in the current economic climate with rising costs of living.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044623%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481345"}},{"id":"481344","reference":"AQW 44622/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-23","answerBy":"2026-05-11","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any notice provided to claimants in advance of a Universal Credit claim being closed, following a six-month nil payment period.","answerText":"As entitlement to Universal Credit is calculated at the end of each monthly assessment period, advance notice of closure is not possible where this is the result of six consecutive periods with a nil award.\n\nThe www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you’re-employed website advises Universal Credit claimants if their payment stops and if it’s been more than six months, they will need to reapply for Universal Credit. The Universal Credit system is designed to automatically close the claim.","answerHtml":"As entitlement to Universal Credit is calculated at the end of each monthly assessment period, advance notice of closure is not possible where this is the result of six consecutive periods with a nil award.
The www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you’re-employed website advises Universal Credit claimants if their payment stops and if it’s been more than six months, they will need to reapply for Universal Credit. The Universal Credit system is designed to automatically close the claim.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044622%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481344"}},{"id":"481343","reference":"AQW 44621/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-23","answerBy":"2026-05-11","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether any consideration has been given by her Department to introducing any increase in firearms licensing fees on a phased basis.","answerText":"My Department carefully considered options available within the existing legislative framework to address the current estimated £1,995,000 (2025/26) shortfall between existing firearms licensing fees and the cost to the PSNI of providing the service.\n\nThe current proposals to increase fees can be made by Article 75(3) of The Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 2004 which sets out that the fees in Schedule 6 can be varied by Order. This can be done via secondary legislation. Any changes to the current structure of the fees, to include automatic uplifts, would require primary legislation.\n\nAs funding and delivery of public services in Northern Ireland is under pressure, my Department’s proposal recommends an increase in firearms fees to achieve full cost recovery and urgently address the financial shortfall which is currently subsidised from PSNI mainstream funding and therefore diverting much needed resources from other areas of policing. This is in line with the 2018 recommendation made by the Northern Ireland Audit Office which said “The PSNI should establish a plan to move towards full cost recovery for firearms licensing in the longer term” and, the Department of Finance’s document, Managing Public Money Northern Ireland which states that “charges for services provided by public sector organisations normally pass on the full cost of providing them”.\n\nWhilst I acknowledge the increased costs for applicants, you will be aware that firearms licensing fees have remained unchanged for almost ten years. A firearms certificate in Northern Ireland is normally granted for a period of five years, after which it must be applied for again. For some existing firearm certificate holders the impact is they will have up to five years before they are affected by any change in fees.","answerHtml":"My Department carefully considered options available within the existing legislative framework to address the current estimated £1,995,000 (2025/26) shortfall between existing firearms licensing fees and the cost to the PSNI of providing the service.
The current proposals to increase fees can be made by Article 75(3) of The Firearms (Northern Ireland) Order 2004 which sets out that the fees in Schedule 6 can be varied by Order. This can be done via secondary legislation. Any changes to the current structure of the fees, to include automatic uplifts, would require primary legislation.
As funding and delivery of public services in Northern Ireland is under pressure, my Department’s proposal recommends an increase in firearms fees to achieve full cost recovery and urgently address the financial shortfall which is currently subsidised from PSNI mainstream funding and therefore diverting much needed resources from other areas of policing. This is in line with the 2018 recommendation made by the Northern Ireland Audit Office which said “The PSNI should establish a plan to move towards full cost recovery for firearms licensing in the longer term” and, the Department of Finance’s document, Managing Public Money Northern Ireland which states that “charges for services provided by public sector organisations normally pass on the full cost of providing them”.
Whilst I acknowledge the increased costs for applicants, you will be aware that firearms licensing fees have remained unchanged for almost ten years. A firearms certificate in Northern Ireland is normally granted for a period of five years, after which it must be applied for again. For some existing firearm certificate holders the impact is they will have up to five years before they are affected by any change in fees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044621%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481343"}},{"id":"481124","reference":"AQW 44523/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration his Department has given to (i) recent policy developments in England in relation to allergy safety in schools; and (ii) introducing similar measures in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the answer to AQW 41034/22-27 published in the Weekly Answer Booklet for week ending 6th March 2026.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the answer to AQW 41034/22-27 published in the Weekly Answer Booklet for week ending 6th March 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044523%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481124","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481124"}},{"id":"481123","reference":"AQW 44522/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has undertaken of the impact of proposed firearms licensing fee increases on rural communities and farm businesses.","answerText":"A draft Rural Needs Impact Assessment has been developed as part of the Consultation on Proposed Amendments to Firearms Licensing Fees and the ‘Banded System’ and is available to view on the Department’s website.\n\nI am mindful of the impact on those who rely on firearms within rural communities and farm businesses. My Department welcomes views on any social, economic, environmental or rural impacts as part of the consultation process.\n\nThe licensing fee is the same for all applicants, including for those using a firearm for legitimate purposes within the farming industry. Each firearms certificate applicant must be assessed to be a “fit” person and have “good reason” for each firearm or ammunition holding applied for.\n\nThe Department’s consultation on proposals to amend firearms licensing fees and the “banded system” is open until 29 May 2026 and all responses will be considered in developing the Department’s final proposals.","answerHtml":"A draft Rural Needs Impact Assessment has been developed as part of the Consultation on Proposed Amendments to Firearms Licensing Fees and the ‘Banded System’ and is available to view on the Department’s website.
I am mindful of the impact on those who rely on firearms within rural communities and farm businesses. My Department welcomes views on any social, economic, environmental or rural impacts as part of the consultation process.
The licensing fee is the same for all applicants, including for those using a firearm for legitimate purposes within the farming industry. Each firearms certificate applicant must be assessed to be a “fit” person and have “good reason” for each firearm or ammunition holding applied for.
The Department’s consultation on proposals to amend firearms licensing fees and the “banded system” is open until 29 May 2026 and all responses will be considered in developing the Department’s final proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044522%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481123"}},{"id":"481122","reference":"AQW 44521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail how the proposed firearms licensing fees in Northern Ireland compare with those in other UK jurisdictions and Ireland.","answerText":"Firearms fees in Great Britain (GB) were increased in February 2025 to recover the full cost of providing a firearms licensing service. Although fee structures differ and there are a number of various licensing fees, a comparable example with GB would be a coterminous grant for both a firearm and shotgun certificate which is £202, with a renewal costing of £155, and is valid for five years.\n\nIn Ireland, a firearm certificate (FAC) costs €80 (approximately £70) for each firearm for a period of three years. This figure has not been revised since 2009.\n\nIn Northern Ireland (NI), FACs are valid for five years and there are no separate shotgun certificates and no renewals, only the grant of a FAC which currently costs £98. In NI handguns can also be granted for personal protection and sporting purposes.\n\nThe current fees for NI firearms licensing now fall significantly behind other jurisdictions. The proposals outlined in the recently launched public consultation seek to amend the firearms fees to address that shortfall and move to full cost recovery for the delivery of firearms licencing services in NI.","answerHtml":"Firearms fees in Great Britain (GB) were increased in February 2025 to recover the full cost of providing a firearms licensing service. Although fee structures differ and there are a number of various licensing fees, a comparable example with GB would be a coterminous grant for both a firearm and shotgun certificate which is £202, with a renewal costing of £155, and is valid for five years.
In Ireland, a firearm certificate (FAC) costs €80 (approximately £70) for each firearm for a period of three years. This figure has not been revised since 2009.
In Northern Ireland (NI), FACs are valid for five years and there are no separate shotgun certificates and no renewals, only the grant of a FAC which currently costs £98. In NI handguns can also be granted for personal protection and sporting purposes.
The current fees for NI firearms licensing now fall significantly behind other jurisdictions. The proposals outlined in the recently launched public consultation seek to amend the firearms fees to address that shortfall and move to full cost recovery for the delivery of firearms licencing services in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481122"}},{"id":"481121","reference":"AQW 44520/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any consideration her Department has given to the impact of proposed firearms licensing fee increases on individuals who hold a personal protection weapon; and (ii) whether any mitigations or exemptions are being considered.","answerText":"While mindful of the impact on those who rely on firearms for legitimate purposes, including personal protection, the licensing fee is the same for all applicants. There are no plans for mitigations or exemptions as each applicant must be assessed, not only for their “fitness”, but also for their “good reason” to possess firearms and/or ammunition, irrespective of the reason for the application.\n\nThe current fee does not reflect the cost of delivering the firearms licensing service by the PSNI. There is a clear challenge in ensuring that the service is adequately resourced to meet demand and most importantly, maintain public safety. My Department welcomes views on any social, economic, environmental or rural impacts as part of the consultation process.\n\nThe Department’s consultation on proposals to amend firearms licensing fees and the “banded system” is open until 29 May 2026 after which all responses will be considered in developing the Department’s final proposals.","answerHtml":"While mindful of the impact on those who rely on firearms for legitimate purposes, including personal protection, the licensing fee is the same for all applicants. There are no plans for mitigations or exemptions as each applicant must be assessed, not only for their “fitness”, but also for their “good reason” to possess firearms and/or ammunition, irrespective of the reason for the application.
The current fee does not reflect the cost of delivering the firearms licensing service by the PSNI. There is a clear challenge in ensuring that the service is adequately resourced to meet demand and most importantly, maintain public safety. My Department welcomes views on any social, economic, environmental or rural impacts as part of the consultation process.
The Department’s consultation on proposals to amend firearms licensing fees and the “banded system” is open until 29 May 2026 after which all responses will be considered in developing the Department’s final proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044520%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481121"}},{"id":"481120","reference":"AQW 44519/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-22","answerBy":"2026-05-08","answered":"2026-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any consideration her Department has given to the role of firearms as an essential tool within agriculture, including for vermin control and livestock protection, in developing proposals to increase firearms licensing fees.","answerText":"Whilst I am mindful of the impact on those who rely on firearms for pest control activities within the agricultural sector, the licensing fee is the same for all applicants, and each applicant is required to be assessed to be a “fit” person and have “good reason” for each firearm or ammunition holding applied for. The question arising is whether the Police Service can afford to continue to subsidise licensing at the expense of other policing functions, or whether it should revert to being a full cost recovery as originally intended.\n\nThe Department’s consultation on proposals to amend firearms licensing fees and the “banded system” is open until 29 May 2026. A Rural Needs Impact Assessment has been carried out and is available to view on the Department’s website.\n\nI encourage members of the public, and any representative organisation, to share their views on the social, economic, environmental or rural impacts as part of the consultation process, and all responses will be considered when developing the Department’s final proposals.","answerHtml":"Whilst I am mindful of the impact on those who rely on firearms for pest control activities within the agricultural sector, the licensing fee is the same for all applicants, and each applicant is required to be assessed to be a “fit” person and have “good reason” for each firearm or ammunition holding applied for. The question arising is whether the Police Service can afford to continue to subsidise licensing at the expense of other policing functions, or whether it should revert to being a full cost recovery as originally intended.
The Department’s consultation on proposals to amend firearms licensing fees and the “banded system” is open until 29 May 2026. A Rural Needs Impact Assessment has been carried out and is available to view on the Department’s website.
I encourage members of the public, and any representative organisation, to share their views on the social, economic, environmental or rural impacts as part of the consultation process, and all responses will be considered when developing the Department’s final proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044519%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=481120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=481120"}},{"id":"480908","reference":"AQW 44413/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-04-27","answered":"2026-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether any assessment has made of the implications of the proposed staff reduction scheme at Ulster University for regional campuses, including Coleraine.","answerText":"I am aware that Ulster University has announced its intention to commence a consultation process regarding a proposed staff redundancy scheme. I understand this is the start of a process, the details of which have yet to be determined. I, along with my officials, will continue to engage with the university.","answerHtml":"I am aware that Ulster University has announced its intention to commence a consultation process regarding a proposed staff redundancy scheme. I understand this is the start of a process, the details of which have yet to be determined. I, along with my officials, will continue to engage with the university.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044413%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480908","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480908"}},{"id":"480907","reference":"AQW 44412/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has made any assessment of whether current arrangements for managing severe allergies in schools adequately support equal access to education for affected pupils.","answerText":"My officials have received correspondence and met with parents and organisations representing pupils with allergies where the lived experience of pupils with severe allergies and their families has been heard. The information shared will be considered as part of the review of the current guidance. This review has been paused due to competing priorities.\n\nSchools have a responsibility to follow the extant guidance “Supporting Pupils with Medication Needs” and make reasonable adjustments to meet the individual pupil medical needs, including those with severe allergies/anaphylaxis. First Aid and Administration of Medication policies should be in place.","answerHtml":"My officials have received correspondence and met with parents and organisations representing pupils with allergies where the lived experience of pupils with severe allergies and their families has been heard. The information shared will be considered as part of the review of the current guidance. This review has been paused due to competing priorities.
Schools have a responsibility to follow the extant guidance “Supporting Pupils with Medication Needs” and make reasonable adjustments to meet the individual pupil medical needs, including those with severe allergies/anaphylaxis. First Aid and Administration of Medication policies should be in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044412%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480907"}},{"id":"480906","reference":"AQW 44411/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any mandatory training currently required for school staff in recognising and responding to anaphylaxis.","answerText":"Educational settings in Northern Ireland have a responsibility to follow the “Supporting pupils with Medication Needs” guidance and make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils medical needs, including severe allergies/anaphylaxis, are met.\n\nWhere a pupil has an individual healthcare plan, supported by healthcare professionals and agreed with parents and school, this will detail any specific training required to support their medical needs. The pupil and their family should be known to the Paediatric Anaphylaxis Nursing Specialists team who can provide specific support, where it is required.\n\nSince 2022 all EA catering staff receive general Food Safety training, alongside separate Allergen Management training. In addition to this, a Special Diets Management training module was introduced for all catering staff in August 2025. Each module is delivered to new staff upon appointment to their job, and the training is refreshed annually for all catering staff. Special diets and allergens have also been the subject of recent awareness-raising initiatives, including toolbox talks and quality assurance assessments.","answerHtml":"Educational settings in Northern Ireland have a responsibility to follow the “Supporting pupils with Medication Needs” guidance and make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils medical needs, including severe allergies/anaphylaxis, are met.
Where a pupil has an individual healthcare plan, supported by healthcare professionals and agreed with parents and school, this will detail any specific training required to support their medical needs. The pupil and their family should be known to the Paediatric Anaphylaxis Nursing Specialists team who can provide specific support, where it is required.
Since 2022 all EA catering staff receive general Food Safety training, alongside separate Allergen Management training. In addition to this, a Special Diets Management training module was introduced for all catering staff in August 2025. Each module is delivered to new staff upon appointment to their job, and the training is refreshed annually for all catering staff. Special diets and allergens have also been the subject of recent awareness-raising initiatives, including toolbox talks and quality assurance assessments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044411%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480906","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480906"}},{"id":"480905","reference":"AQW 44410/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any (i) current guidance provided to schools on the use of adrenaline auto-injectors; and (ii) plans to update this guidance.","answerText":"The Human Medicines Regulations 2012 were amended in October 2017 to allow schools to purchase adrenaline auto-injector (AAI) devices without a prescription, for emergency use in children who are at risk of anaphylaxis but whose own device is not available or not working.\n\nFollowing these amendments, ‘Guidance on the use of adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) in schools’, developed by the Department of Health in England, was adapted for Northern Ireland in 2018 by my Department, in partnership with the Department of Education. The guidance is an addendum to ‘Supporting Pupils with Medication Needs’ and is non-statutory but is intended to capture the good practice which schools should observe in using spare AAIs to inform development of local policies.\n\nThe NI guidance is available on the Department of Education’s website (https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/corrected-aai-guidance-october-2018) and remains extant at this time. My Department will keep this position under review, working in partnership with the Department of Education, and will update the guidance if required to reflect any changes in policy or legislation which make update necessary.","answerHtml":"The Human Medicines Regulations 2012 were amended in October 2017 to allow schools to purchase adrenaline auto-injector (AAI) devices without a prescription, for emergency use in children who are at risk of anaphylaxis but whose own device is not available or not working.
Following these amendments, ‘Guidance on the use of adrenaline auto-injectors (AAIs) in schools’, developed by the Department of Health in England, was adapted for Northern Ireland in 2018 by my Department, in partnership with the Department of Education. The guidance is an addendum to ‘Supporting Pupils with Medication Needs’ and is non-statutory but is intended to capture the good practice which schools should observe in using spare AAIs to inform development of local policies.
The NI guidance is available on the Department of Education’s website (https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/corrected-aai-guidance-october-2018) and remains extant at this time. My Department will keep this position under review, working in partnership with the Department of Education, and will update the guidance if required to reflect any changes in policy or legislation which make update necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044410%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480905","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480905"}},{"id":"480904","reference":"AQW 44409/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-21","answerBy":"2026-05-07","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has considered introducing statutory guidance for schools on the management of severe allergies and anaphylaxis.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the answer to AQW 41034/22-27 published in the Weekly Answer Booklet for week ending 6th March 2026.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the answer to AQW 41034/22-27 published in the Weekly Answer Booklet for week ending 6th March 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044409%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480904","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480904"}},{"id":"480680","reference":"AQW 44305/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-20","answerBy":"2026-04-24","answered":"2026-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any measures her Department is taking to ensure the long-term sustainability of regional higher education provision, including the Coleraine campus of Ulster University.","answerText":"Like all Departments, the Department for the Economy’s finances are extremely challenging. I am working to secure a funding settlement that can deliver a sustainable Higher Education sector.","answerHtml":"Like all Departments, the Department for the Economy’s finances are extremely challenging. I am working to secure a funding settlement that can deliver a sustainable Higher Education sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044305%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480680"}},{"id":"480679","reference":"AQW 44304/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-20","answerBy":"2026-05-06","answered":"2026-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) whether pupils who require a smartphone to operate medically necessary diabetes technology should be permitted to keep that device on their person during the school day; and (ii) any guidance issued to schools on related alarms, monitoring, and emergency intervention.","answerText":"Pupil health and safety must remain paramount and any restrictions on smartphone use should not prevent a child from accessing vital medical support.\n\n(i) Schools are expected to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils who require a smartphone in order to operate medically necessary diabetes management technology, such as continuous glucose monitoring systems or insulin pumps, including during lessons and examinations, where it is required for medical purposes. This includes recognising that certain medical devices rely on smartphone applications to provide realtime monitoring, alerts and alerts to potential medical emergencies.\n\nDE Guidance for Schools on Pupils’ Personal Use of Mobile Phones and other Similar Devices During the School Day Circular 2024-14 - Use of Personal Mobile Phones.pdf is clear that there will always need to be exceptions made for a number of reasons, including medical reasons.\n\nii) Education settings in Northern Ireland have a responsibility to follow the “Supporting pupils with Medication Needs” guidance and make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils’ medical needs, including in relation to diabetes, are met.\n\nWhere a pupil has an individual healthcare plan, supported by healthcare professionals and agreed with parents and school, this will detail the measures needed to support a pupil in school, identify any specific training required to support these medical needs including preparing for an emergency situation.","answerHtml":"Pupil health and safety must remain paramount and any restrictions on smartphone use should not prevent a child from accessing vital medical support.
(i) Schools are expected to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils who require a smartphone in order to operate medically necessary diabetes management technology, such as continuous glucose monitoring systems or insulin pumps, including during lessons and examinations, where it is required for medical purposes. This includes recognising that certain medical devices rely on smartphone applications to provide realtime monitoring, alerts and alerts to potential medical emergencies.
DE Guidance for Schools on Pupils’ Personal Use of Mobile Phones and other Similar Devices During the School Day Circular 2024-14 - Use of Personal Mobile Phones.pdf is clear that there will always need to be exceptions made for a number of reasons, including medical reasons.
ii) Education settings in Northern Ireland have a responsibility to follow the “Supporting pupils with Medication Needs” guidance and make reasonable adjustments to ensure that pupils’ medical needs, including in relation to diabetes, are met.
Where a pupil has an individual healthcare plan, supported by healthcare professionals and agreed with parents and school, this will detail the measures needed to support a pupil in school, identify any specific training required to support these medical needs including preparing for an emergency situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044304%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480679"}},{"id":"480678","reference":"AQW 44303/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-20","answerBy":"2026-05-06","answered":"2026-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any steps her Department is taking to progress changes to the licensing requirements for funeral limousines; and (ii) whether this work will be completed within the 2022-27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"A review of Class C taxi licensing, which includes the licensing requirements for funeral limousines has been completed. As part of the review process Officials and I met with representatives of the funeral and wedding car sectors to get a clear understanding of the issues they face.\n\nOfficials will shortly provide me with any recommendations arising from that review and any proposed changes will be subject to a public consultation.","answerHtml":"A review of Class C taxi licensing, which includes the licensing requirements for funeral limousines has been completed. As part of the review process Officials and I met with representatives of the funeral and wedding car sectors to get a clear understanding of the issues they face.
Officials will shortly provide me with any recommendations arising from that review and any proposed changes will be subject to a public consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044303%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480678"}},{"id":"480677","reference":"AQW 44302/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-20","answerBy":"2026-05-06","answered":"2026-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the requirement for drivers of funeral limousines to hold a Public Service Vehicle licence is being considered as part of the review of Class C taxi licensing.","answerText":"I can confirm that the requirement for drivers of funeral limousines to hold a Public Service Vehicle licence is being considered as part of the review of Class C taxi licensing.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the requirement for drivers of funeral limousines to hold a Public Service Vehicle licence is being considered as part of the review of Class C taxi licensing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044302%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480677"}},{"id":"480481","reference":"AQW 44188/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-17","answerBy":"2026-04-27","answered":"2026-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) whether any assessment has been made of the impact of reported shortages of Flixotide Evohalers on veterinary care; and (ii) any steps he is taking, including with the Department of Health and pharmaceutical suppliers, to ensure continuity of supply for animals requiring this medication.","answerText":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044188%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480481"}},{"id":"480480","reference":"AQW 44187/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-17","answerBy":"2026-05-05","answered":"2026-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of higher education funding models in other UK jurisdictions including how this is informing the development of a revised funding model in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of our Higher Education Institutions, has recently been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March.","answerHtml":"The first stage of a Higher Education Funding Review, an independent Financial Needs Assessment of our Higher Education Institutions, has recently been completed. A summary of the report was published on the Departmental website on 18 March.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044187%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480480"}},{"id":"480479","reference":"AQW 44186/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-17","answerBy":"2026-05-05","answered":"2026-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any plans her Department has following the Financial Needs Assessment of the higher education sector; and (ii) when she expects to bring forward proposals for a revised funding model.","answerText":"Following the completion of the independent Financial Needs Assessment, which is the first stage of the wider Higher Education Funding Review, my Department has also commissioned an independent analysis of the costs\n\nassociated with Ulster University’s multi-campus model. This work is currently\n\nunderway.\n\nThe wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.\n\nI continue to seek additional resources for Further and Higher Education.","answerHtml":"Following the completion of the independent Financial Needs Assessment, which is the first stage of the wider Higher Education Funding Review, my Department has also commissioned an independent analysis of the costs
associated with Ulster University’s multi-campus model. This work is currently
underway.
The wider Review is anticipated to take 18 months to complete. This timescale is subject to a number of factors.
I continue to seek additional resources for Further and Higher Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044186%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480479"}},{"id":"480031","reference":"AQW 43949/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps the Housing Executive takes to balances the need to support tenants with complex needs with the need to protect other residents from ongoing antisocial behaviour.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:\n\n“The Northern Ireland Housing Executive recognises that everyone has the right to live peacefully and safely within their community. In responding to anti-social behaviour, it seeks to balance the need to support tenants whose behaviour may be influenced by complex circumstances, such as mental health issues, addiction, trauma or other vulnerabilities, with its responsibility to protect other residents from ongoing nuisance, harassment or intimidation.\n\nThrough its tenancy sustainment approach, as set out in the Tenancies that Thrive Strategy 2025-2030, the Housing Executive aims to identify support needs at an early stage and connect tenants with appropriate services and interventions. This includes tenancy sustainment initiatives and targeted support designed to help individuals address underlying issues, sustain their tenancy and reduce negative impacts on neighbours and the wider community.\n\nThe Housing Executive adopts an incremental and proportionate approach to anti-social behaviour. Most cases are resolved through early intervention measures, including advice, support referrals, warning letters and engagement by local office staff. However, where behaviour persists and continues to adversely affect others, the Housing Executive will take appropriate enforcement action, including the use of legal remedies where necessary and proportionate. The Housing Executive also works with statutory, community and voluntary sector partners to support vulnerable tenants, promote community safety, provide access to mediation and restorative interventions, and develop local solutions to address anti-social behaviour in neighbourhoods.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive; they have advised me as follows:
“The Northern Ireland Housing Executive recognises that everyone has the right to live peacefully and safely within their community. In responding to anti-social behaviour, it seeks to balance the need to support tenants whose behaviour may be influenced by complex circumstances, such as mental health issues, addiction, trauma or other vulnerabilities, with its responsibility to protect other residents from ongoing nuisance, harassment or intimidation.
Through its tenancy sustainment approach, as set out in the Tenancies that Thrive Strategy 2025-2030, the Housing Executive aims to identify support needs at an early stage and connect tenants with appropriate services and interventions. This includes tenancy sustainment initiatives and targeted support designed to help individuals address underlying issues, sustain their tenancy and reduce negative impacts on neighbours and the wider community.
The Housing Executive adopts an incremental and proportionate approach to anti-social behaviour. Most cases are resolved through early intervention measures, including advice, support referrals, warning letters and engagement by local office staff. However, where behaviour persists and continues to adversely affect others, the Housing Executive will take appropriate enforcement action, including the use of legal remedies where necessary and proportionate. The Housing Executive also works with statutory, community and voluntary sector partners to support vulnerable tenants, promote community safety, provide access to mediation and restorative interventions, and develop local solutions to address anti-social behaviour in neighbourhoods.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043949%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480031","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480031"}},{"id":"480030","reference":"AQW 43948/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any preventative measures being developed, alongside enforcement powers, to reduce persistent anti-social behaviour.","answerText":"Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), including street drinking can have a significant impact on communities.\n\nResponses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation, including issues of street drinking, were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.\n\nThrough subsequent work on ASB, and the cross-cutting issue of street drinking, my officials have been working with DfC, DAERA PSNI, and engaged an ASB Working Group comprised of statutory partners and representatives from the community and voluntary sectors to produce recommendations for potential legislative change. My Department has committed to conducting an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) on all proposals with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.\n\nIn terms of preventative measures, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.","answerHtml":"Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB), including street drinking can have a significant impact on communities.
Responses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation, including issues of street drinking, were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.
Through subsequent work on ASB, and the cross-cutting issue of street drinking, my officials have been working with DfC, DAERA PSNI, and engaged an ASB Working Group comprised of statutory partners and representatives from the community and voluntary sectors to produce recommendations for potential legislative change. My Department has committed to conducting an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) on all proposals with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.
In terms of preventative measures, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043948%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480030"}},{"id":"480029","reference":"AQW 43947/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how his Department is working with (i) the PSNI; and (ii) local councils, to ensure a coordinated response to antisocial behaviour.","answerText":"Antisocial behaviour is primarily a matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), which leads on operational response and enforcement. The Department for Communities does not have an operational role but engages with the PSNI and local councils through community planning arrangements.\n\nIn addition, responses to a joint Department of Justice and Department for Communities public consultation on antisocial behaviour legislation were published on 4 April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform. The Department is currently working with the Department of Justice and councils to consider appropriate next step.","answerHtml":"Antisocial behaviour is primarily a matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), which leads on operational response and enforcement. The Department for Communities does not have an operational role but engages with the PSNI and local councils through community planning arrangements.
In addition, responses to a joint Department of Justice and Department for Communities public consultation on antisocial behaviour legislation were published on 4 April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform. The Department is currently working with the Department of Justice and councils to consider appropriate next step.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043947%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480029"}},{"id":"480028","reference":"AQW 43946/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any assessment has been made of the time taken by the Housing Executive to resolve persistent antisocial behaviour cases.","answerText":"This is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the information requested from the Interim Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“Each investigation into anti-social behaviour is fact and case specific and therefore the time taken for each case may be different. In this context, no assessment of the nature suggested has been undertaken, nor is the time for which cases are open specifically measured. The Housing Executive tackles anti-social behaviour by treating each case individually and judged on its own merits; responses and actions will necessarily depend on the number of, severity of and time between incident(s), alongside the available evidence.\n\nIn most cases there will be a requirement to demonstrate that an incremental and proportionate response has been used, and this may include the use of warning letters, support for underlying issues, mediation or a Community Restorative Justice resolution. Where individuals fail to respond to offers of assistance, or where the anti-social behaviour is of a sufficiently serious nature then the Housing Executive may take action using our statutory powers to protect victims. These powers include proceedings to take possession of a Housing Executive property or seeking an injunction or an Anti-Social Behaviour Order. Each of these measures is dependent on the case meeting the threshold for the court to grant the relevant order.”","answerHtml":"This is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the information requested from the Interim Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“Each investigation into anti-social behaviour is fact and case specific and therefore the time taken for each case may be different. In this context, no assessment of the nature suggested has been undertaken, nor is the time for which cases are open specifically measured. The Housing Executive tackles anti-social behaviour by treating each case individually and judged on its own merits; responses and actions will necessarily depend on the number of, severity of and time between incident(s), alongside the available evidence.
In most cases there will be a requirement to demonstrate that an incremental and proportionate response has been used, and this may include the use of warning letters, support for underlying issues, mediation or a Community Restorative Justice resolution. Where individuals fail to respond to offers of assistance, or where the anti-social behaviour is of a sufficiently serious nature then the Housing Executive may take action using our statutory powers to protect victims. These powers include proceedings to take possession of a Housing Executive property or seeking an injunction or an Anti-Social Behaviour Order. Each of these measures is dependent on the case meeting the threshold for the court to grant the relevant order.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043946%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480028","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480028"}},{"id":"480027","reference":"AQW 43945/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-15","answerBy":"2026-04-30","answered":"2026-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the development of the legislative proposals to reform anti-social behaviour law, following the joint Department of Justice and Department for Communities consultation.","answerText":"Responses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation, including issues of street drinking, were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.\n\nIn relation to the issues of drinking in public and the possibility of granting the police additional powers to tackle ASB, I have been in direct communication with the Chief Constable and the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, whilst my officials have engaged with other stakeholders seeking views on proposals developed with DfC exploring the potential of powers allowing for the seizure and disposal of open and closed containers of alcoholic drinks in designated areas and in certain public order situations. As drinking in public is a cross-cutting issue, my Department and DfC will continue to work in conjunction with the PSNI and other key partners to determine next steps towards identifying a proportionate and workable solution.\n\nAs was detailed in the consultation report further work has been, and will be, required with respect to any potential amendment to Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs). Initially this was taken forward by an ASB Working Group comprising of statutory partners together with representatives from the community and voluntary sectors. My officials are now considering all the issues raised throughout this exercise and the recommendations of the working group to inform the final direction of the ASBO. My Department has also committed to conducting an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) on this and all proposals brought forward by the ASB Working Group with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.","answerHtml":"Responses to a joint DoJ and Department for Communities (DfC) public consultation on ASB legislation, including issues of street drinking, were published in April 2025 and suggested a need for legislative reform.
In relation to the issues of drinking in public and the possibility of granting the police additional powers to tackle ASB, I have been in direct communication with the Chief Constable and the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, whilst my officials have engaged with other stakeholders seeking views on proposals developed with DfC exploring the potential of powers allowing for the seizure and disposal of open and closed containers of alcoholic drinks in designated areas and in certain public order situations. As drinking in public is a cross-cutting issue, my Department and DfC will continue to work in conjunction with the PSNI and other key partners to determine next steps towards identifying a proportionate and workable solution.
As was detailed in the consultation report further work has been, and will be, required with respect to any potential amendment to Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs). Initially this was taken forward by an ASB Working Group comprising of statutory partners together with representatives from the community and voluntary sectors. My officials are now considering all the issues raised throughout this exercise and the recommendations of the working group to inform the final direction of the ASBO. My Department has also committed to conducting an Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) on this and all proposals brought forward by the ASB Working Group with a view to bringing forward legislation in the next Assembly mandate, subject to Executive and Assembly approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043945%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=480027","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=480027"}},{"id":"479296","reference":"AQW 43676/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":"2026-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any contingency planning is in place to ensure access to healthcare services, including ambulance provision and hospital appointments, is maintained during planned fuel price protests.","answerText":"Healthcare Services in Northern Ireland have the ability to deal with a range of emergencies or potential emergencies through an ongoing process of assessment, planning, testing and review. This aligns with the Northern Ireland Civil Contingencies Framework structures for Prepare, Respond and Recover.\n\nThis preparation includes planning for unexpected, short-term emergencies and longer-term ‘rising tide’ events. Part of this preparation is to have robust Business Continuity Plans to maintain critical business as usual services.\n\nIn line with the procedures for alerting agencies in the Respond Phase (NI Civil Contingencies Framework) the Department of Health and HSC Trusts attended the Local Impact Assessment Call facilitated by the Regional Resilience Team on 10th April 2026. This provided an updated assessment of the intelligence surrounding the proposed fuel protests, their potential locations, duration and scale.\n\nAs an outcome of this assessment call, PSNI established a Strategic Co-ordinating Group and three local Tactical Co-ordinating Groups to share the latest assessments and information on the proposed fuel protests with partners. These provided a Strategic overview and local impact assessments.\n\nDepartmental staff and NIAS were represented on the Strategic Co-ordinating Group and NIAS and the appropriate Trust were represented on the geographical Tactical Co-ordinating Groups located in Belfast, Ballymena and Newry. These groups met at regular intervals from 12th April to 14th April 2026. This multi-agency partnership working is critical to HSC preparedness and response.\n\nReceiving the latest briefings on the proposed fuel protests allowed Trusts to assess the potential impacts on scheduled or unscheduled services and staffing/resourcing because of the proposed protests. Agreed messaging was shared on various platforms across agencies, internally and externally.\n\nWith these measures in place, Trusts were able to manage business as usual and to be prepared to activate business continuity measures or escalate any impacts as required. There were no reported impacts on services.","answerHtml":"Healthcare Services in Northern Ireland have the ability to deal with a range of emergencies or potential emergencies through an ongoing process of assessment, planning, testing and review. This aligns with the Northern Ireland Civil Contingencies Framework structures for Prepare, Respond and Recover.
This preparation includes planning for unexpected, short-term emergencies and longer-term ‘rising tide’ events. Part of this preparation is to have robust Business Continuity Plans to maintain critical business as usual services.
In line with the procedures for alerting agencies in the Respond Phase (NI Civil Contingencies Framework) the Department of Health and HSC Trusts attended the Local Impact Assessment Call facilitated by the Regional Resilience Team on 10th April 2026. This provided an updated assessment of the intelligence surrounding the proposed fuel protests, their potential locations, duration and scale.
As an outcome of this assessment call, PSNI established a Strategic Co-ordinating Group and three local Tactical Co-ordinating Groups to share the latest assessments and information on the proposed fuel protests with partners. These provided a Strategic overview and local impact assessments.
Departmental staff and NIAS were represented on the Strategic Co-ordinating Group and NIAS and the appropriate Trust were represented on the geographical Tactical Co-ordinating Groups located in Belfast, Ballymena and Newry. These groups met at regular intervals from 12th April to 14th April 2026. This multi-agency partnership working is critical to HSC preparedness and response.
Receiving the latest briefings on the proposed fuel protests allowed Trusts to assess the potential impacts on scheduled or unscheduled services and staffing/resourcing because of the proposed protests. Agreed messaging was shared on various platforms across agencies, internally and externally.
With these measures in place, Trusts were able to manage business as usual and to be prepared to activate business continuity measures or escalate any impacts as required. There were no reported impacts on services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043676%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479296","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479296"}},{"id":"479295","reference":"AQW 43675/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any additional financial support her Department will bring forward to assist (i) businesses; and (ii) the farming sector, affected by rising fuel costs.","answerText":"I recognise the very real pressures facing businesses here as a result of rising fuel prices, driven by ongoing volatility in global energy markets and continuing instability in the Middle East.\n\nFuel prices are largely determined by international markets and British‑wide taxation, which places clear limits on what the Executive can directly influence.\n\nI have been clear that urgent action is required to protect businesses and the agriculture sector and have called on the British Government to reduce fuel duty as a matter of urgency.\n\nI am also meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey to press for urgent additional support with energy costs.\n\nAs you will be aware, responsibility for supporting the farming sector lies with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).","answerHtml":"I recognise the very real pressures facing businesses here as a result of rising fuel prices, driven by ongoing volatility in global energy markets and continuing instability in the Middle East.
Fuel prices are largely determined by international markets and British‑wide taxation, which places clear limits on what the Executive can directly influence.
I have been clear that urgent action is required to protect businesses and the agriculture sector and have called on the British Government to reduce fuel duty as a matter of urgency.
I am also meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey to press for urgent additional support with energy costs.
As you will be aware, responsibility for supporting the farming sector lies with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043675%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479295"}},{"id":"479294","reference":"AQW 43674/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":"2026-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions she has had with the UK Government regarding temporary reductions in fuel-related taxation, including excise duties, to reduce costs for consumers.","answerText":"I recognise the very real pressures facing households and businesses here as a result of rising fuel prices, driven by ongoing volatility in global energy markets and continuing instability in the Middle East.\n\nFuel prices are largely determined by international markets and UK‑wide taxation, which places clear limits on what the Executive can directly influence.\n\nI have been clear that urgent action is required to protect households and businesses, including calling on the British Government to reduce fuel duty as a matter of urgency.","answerHtml":"I recognise the very real pressures facing households and businesses here as a result of rising fuel prices, driven by ongoing volatility in global energy markets and continuing instability in the Middle East.
Fuel prices are largely determined by international markets and UK‑wide taxation, which places clear limits on what the Executive can directly influence.
I have been clear that urgent action is required to protect households and businesses, including calling on the British Government to reduce fuel duty as a matter of urgency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043674%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479294"}},{"id":"479293","reference":"AQW 43673/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration she has given to introducing broader-based energy or fuel support for households who do not qualify for means-tested benefits, but are experiencing financial pressure due to rising fuel costs.","answerText":"I am firmly committed to providing practical assistance to vulnerable households struggling with the rise in home heating oil costs.\n\nOn 16 April, I secured Executive agreement to increase the £17.2 million allocated by the UK Government with an additional £19.2 million – more than doubling the support available to help households with home heating oil. This means assistance to the value of £100 for home heating oil will be offered to over 300k households across NI.\n\nOne of my priorities has been to ensure that low‑income households could access support under the scheme, rather than restricting eligibility solely to those in receipt of income‑related or disability benefits. As a result, my Department’s scheme will be open to households not receiving these benefits but with an annual household income below £30,000.","answerHtml":"I am firmly committed to providing practical assistance to vulnerable households struggling with the rise in home heating oil costs.
On 16 April, I secured Executive agreement to increase the £17.2 million allocated by the UK Government with an additional £19.2 million – more than doubling the support available to help households with home heating oil. This means assistance to the value of £100 for home heating oil will be offered to over 300k households across NI.
One of my priorities has been to ensure that low‑income households could access support under the scheme, rather than restricting eligibility solely to those in receipt of income‑related or disability benefits. As a result, my Department’s scheme will be open to households not receiving these benefits but with an annual household income below £30,000.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043673%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479293"}},{"id":"479292","reference":"AQW 43672/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-04-13","answerBy":"2026-04-28","answered":"2026-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any progress made in delivering the previously announced support package for households impacted by rising fuel and home heating oil costs; and (ii) when payments will be issued.","answerText":"(i) On 16 April, I brought a proposal to the Executive to introduce a support package for those most affected by rising home heating oil costs. The Executive approved the proposal, with my Department securing £36.4 million to provide £100 in oil support to over 300,000 households across Northern Ireland. The scheme will support a wide range of vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities, older people, and those on low incomes.\n\n(ii) With Executive agreement in place, my officials will continue to work at pace to deliver the required IT system development and to put in place the necessary legislative and administrative arrangements for the scheme.\n\nThis work is expected to take approximately three months to complete.","answerHtml":"(i) On 16 April, I brought a proposal to the Executive to introduce a support package for those most affected by rising home heating oil costs. The Executive approved the proposal, with my Department securing £36.4 million to provide £100 in oil support to over 300,000 households across Northern Ireland. The scheme will support a wide range of vulnerable groups, including people with disabilities, older people, and those on low incomes.
(ii) With Executive agreement in place, my officials will continue to work at pace to deliver the required IT system development and to put in place the necessary legislative and administrative arrangements for the scheme.
This work is expected to take approximately three months to complete.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043672%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=479292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=479292"}},{"id":"478136","reference":"AQW 43308/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-14","answered":"2026-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether any assessment has been carried out of the impact of the Education Maintenance Allowance on (i) educational attainment at Key Stage 5; and (ii) progression from Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5.","answerText":"The policy in respect of the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is a joint policy between my Department and the Department for the Economy and is administered on behalf of both Departments by the Student Loans Company (SLC).\n\nEMA is intended to support participation in postcompulsory education by young people from lowincome backgrounds. While many recipients will be studying at Key Stage 5, eligibility for EMA is determined by age, household income and fulltime enrolment on an eligible academic or vocational course up to and including Level 3, rather than by Key Stage.\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken to determine the impact of EMA on educational attainment at Key Stage 5, or on progression from Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5. However, work is progressing on plans to require young people to remain in education or training until age 18 and the role and impact of the EMA scheme will be revisited in the context of the crossdepartmental thematic work supporting the 14–19 strategy.","answerHtml":"The policy in respect of the Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) is a joint policy between my Department and the Department for the Economy and is administered on behalf of both Departments by the Student Loans Company (SLC).
EMA is intended to support participation in postcompulsory education by young people from lowincome backgrounds. While many recipients will be studying at Key Stage 5, eligibility for EMA is determined by age, household income and fulltime enrolment on an eligible academic or vocational course up to and including Level 3, rather than by Key Stage.
No assessment has been undertaken to determine the impact of EMA on educational attainment at Key Stage 5, or on progression from Key Stage 4 to Key Stage 5. However, work is progressing on plans to require young people to remain in education or training until age 18 and the role and impact of the EMA scheme will be revisited in the context of the crossdepartmental thematic work supporting the 14–19 strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043308%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478136","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478136"}},{"id":"478135","reference":"AQW 43307/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-14","answered":"2026-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any action his Department is taking to improve school attendance among pupils entitled to free school meals prior to Key Stage 5.","answerText":"Regular pupil attendance at school is an ongoing challenge which has been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and, more recently, by what is referred to as Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance. Subsequently, my Department is developing a new Pupil Attendance Strategy to support all children and young people to attend school every day. The public consultation on the draft strategy concluded on 6 March, and officials are currently considering all responses and preparing recommendations for my consideration. The final Attendance Matters strategy will be published as soon as possible thereafter.","answerHtml":"Regular pupil attendance at school is an ongoing challenge which has been significantly impacted by the Covid-19 pandemic and, more recently, by what is referred to as Emotionally Based School Non-Attendance. Subsequently, my Department is developing a new Pupil Attendance Strategy to support all children and young people to attend school every day. The public consultation on the draft strategy concluded on 6 March, and officials are currently considering all responses and preparing recommendations for my consideration. The final Attendance Matters strategy will be published as soon as possible thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043307%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478135"}},{"id":"478134","reference":"AQW 43306/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-14","answered":"2026-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any arrangements in place to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of measures implemented by individual schools to address underperformance among disadvantaged pupils.","answerText":"In recent years, the absence of consistent pupillevel data at Key Stages 1 to 3 has limited the Department’s ability to assess attainment at system level. To address this, the Department has introduced systemlevel sample assessments to provide reliable nationallevel evidence on attainment. Pupils sat these low workload, low stakes tests in March. The data currently being analysed will help identify trends, strengths and areas for improvement, informing future policy and targeted support.\n\nThe Independent Review of Assessment set out a longerterm approach to reform. On 15 April 2026, the Department published its formal response alongside a new Policy Framework for Statutory Assessment. The new Framework establishes a clear assessment pathway from Year 1 to Year 10, supported by short, curriculumaligned assessments, providing consistent information on pupils for schools and parents.\n\nThe new system will be less high-stakes, reflecting the Department’s commitment to publishing system-level data only, and will support greater equity, inclusion and fairness. A stronger emphasis on formative assessment will help teachers identify gaps in learning earlier - particularly in literacy and numeracy - and put targeted support in place. This is especially important for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. More reliable systemlevel information will also enable the Department to better target policy and interventions to reduce the attainment gap.","answerHtml":"In recent years, the absence of consistent pupillevel data at Key Stages 1 to 3 has limited the Department’s ability to assess attainment at system level. To address this, the Department has introduced systemlevel sample assessments to provide reliable nationallevel evidence on attainment. Pupils sat these low workload, low stakes tests in March. The data currently being analysed will help identify trends, strengths and areas for improvement, informing future policy and targeted support.
The Independent Review of Assessment set out a longerterm approach to reform. On 15 April 2026, the Department published its formal response alongside a new Policy Framework for Statutory Assessment. The new Framework establishes a clear assessment pathway from Year 1 to Year 10, supported by short, curriculumaligned assessments, providing consistent information on pupils for schools and parents.
The new system will be less high-stakes, reflecting the Department’s commitment to publishing system-level data only, and will support greater equity, inclusion and fairness. A stronger emphasis on formative assessment will help teachers identify gaps in learning earlier - particularly in literacy and numeracy - and put targeted support in place. This is especially important for children from disadvantaged backgrounds. More reliable systemlevel information will also enable the Department to better target policy and interventions to reduce the attainment gap.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043306%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478134","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478134"}},{"id":"478133","reference":"AQW 43305/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-14","answered":"2026-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any actions his Department is taking to address underperformance and low educational attainment at Key Stages 1 to 3.","answerText":"Addressing low educational attainment is central to the Department’s TransformED Strategy, which provides a coherent, systemwide approach to improvement based on the evidence that highquality teaching has the greatest impact, particularly for pupils experiencing educational disadvantage.\n\nTransformED focuses on early intervention, equity, and excellence in teaching. It prioritises literacy, numeracy and inclusion, supported by clearer curriculum expectations, improved assessment practice and strengthened professional learning in order to raise standards and reduce the attainment gap.\n\nFundamental reviews of the curriculum, statutory assessment and external qualifications have been completed and are now moving into implementation. I have very recently published my formal response to the Independent Review of Assessment alongside a new policy framework for statutory assessment in primary schools and at Key Stage 3 which will provide lowstakes, formative assessment to help teachers identify learning gaps earlier and tailor support more effectively.\n\nThe TransformED delivery plan also provides targeted support for schools where outcomes can be improved, including enhanced leadership capacity, evidenceinformed interventions and better use of systemlevel data. It includes action to strengthen legislation to ensure the independent inspection process operates as intended, safeguarding this key accountability mechanism that evaluates the quality of teaching and learning, supports effective selfevaluation, identifies schools that would benefit from additional support, and shares effective practice across the system.\n\nTaken together, TransformED aims to raise consistency and quality across the system, support schools serving disadvantaged communities, and ensure underachievement is identified and addressed early, enabling more children to make strong progress through the foundational stages of education.","answerHtml":"Addressing low educational attainment is central to the Department’s TransformED Strategy, which provides a coherent, systemwide approach to improvement based on the evidence that highquality teaching has the greatest impact, particularly for pupils experiencing educational disadvantage.
TransformED focuses on early intervention, equity, and excellence in teaching. It prioritises literacy, numeracy and inclusion, supported by clearer curriculum expectations, improved assessment practice and strengthened professional learning in order to raise standards and reduce the attainment gap.
Fundamental reviews of the curriculum, statutory assessment and external qualifications have been completed and are now moving into implementation. I have very recently published my formal response to the Independent Review of Assessment alongside a new policy framework for statutory assessment in primary schools and at Key Stage 3 which will provide lowstakes, formative assessment to help teachers identify learning gaps earlier and tailor support more effectively.
The TransformED delivery plan also provides targeted support for schools where outcomes can be improved, including enhanced leadership capacity, evidenceinformed interventions and better use of systemlevel data. It includes action to strengthen legislation to ensure the independent inspection process operates as intended, safeguarding this key accountability mechanism that evaluates the quality of teaching and learning, supports effective selfevaluation, identifies schools that would benefit from additional support, and shares effective practice across the system.
Taken together, TransformED aims to raise consistency and quality across the system, support schools serving disadvantaged communities, and ensure underachievement is identified and addressed early, enabling more children to make strong progress through the foundational stages of education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043305%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478133","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478133"}},{"id":"478132","reference":"AQW 43304/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-26","answerBy":"2026-04-14","answered":"2026-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps his Department is taking to address the underrepresentation of pupils entitled to free school meals in grammar schools.","answerText":"My Department's guidance on admissions criteria recommends that all post-primary schools, including grammar schools, utilise a criterion related to Free School Meals. However, Boards of Governors are the statutory admissions authority for individual schools, and my Department's role is limited to providing guidance only.\n\nIn order to improve outcomes for disadvantaged pupils, my Department supports a range of interventions aimed at addressing social need and raising attainment.\n\nTransformED places tackling educational disadvantage at the heart of education reform in Northern Ireland. It recognises that genuine excellence is impossible without equity, and that pupils from low income backgrounds require not only targeted support but a fundamentally stronger, fairer education system.\n\nTransformED is delivering a comprehensive programme of reform in the areas of curriculum, assessment, qualifications and school improvement, all underpinned by significant investment in Teacher Professional Learning (TPL). The new curriculum will be a powerful driver of equity. Pupils arrive at school with very different levels of background knowledge. A clear, explicit curriculum will ensure that all learners, regardless of starting point, have access to the same essential knowledge.\n\nThe most fundamental feature of an education system which promotes social mobility is one in which every child is able to attend a good school. There is a need to secure educational excellence everywhere - so that a pupil, in whatever circumstances, wherever they live, and in any school, receives the highest possible standard of education.","answerHtml":"My Department's guidance on admissions criteria recommends that all post-primary schools, including grammar schools, utilise a criterion related to Free School Meals. However, Boards of Governors are the statutory admissions authority for individual schools, and my Department's role is limited to providing guidance only.
In order to improve outcomes for disadvantaged pupils, my Department supports a range of interventions aimed at addressing social need and raising attainment.
TransformED places tackling educational disadvantage at the heart of education reform in Northern Ireland. It recognises that genuine excellence is impossible without equity, and that pupils from low income backgrounds require not only targeted support but a fundamentally stronger, fairer education system.
TransformED is delivering a comprehensive programme of reform in the areas of curriculum, assessment, qualifications and school improvement, all underpinned by significant investment in Teacher Professional Learning (TPL). The new curriculum will be a powerful driver of equity. Pupils arrive at school with very different levels of background knowledge. A clear, explicit curriculum will ensure that all learners, regardless of starting point, have access to the same essential knowledge.
The most fundamental feature of an education system which promotes social mobility is one in which every child is able to attend a good school. There is a need to secure educational excellence everywhere - so that a pupil, in whatever circumstances, wherever they live, and in any school, receives the highest possible standard of education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043304%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=478132","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=478132"}},{"id":"477888","reference":"AQW 43193/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any consideration her Department has given to the timing and placement of road safety advertisements across television and online platforms; and (ii) whether any assessment has been made of the impact the advertisements have on children and young viewers.","answerText":"All TV advertisements go through the Broadcast Clearance process with Clearcast.\n\nDuring this process Clearcast provides instructions as to the time of day an advertisement is permitted to be broadcast.\n\nSome TV advertisements receive instructions to be broadcast all day, some after 7.30pm, others are permitted all day except around children’s programme and the more graphic advertisements after 9pm, so as to take account of audience age.\n\nMy Department always complies with these instructions.\n\nAdvertisements online are targeted to adults only in the North of Ireland, unless the content is intended for a younger audience.\n\nCinema advertising receives age classifications, which again my department always complies with.","answerHtml":"All TV advertisements go through the Broadcast Clearance process with Clearcast.
During this process Clearcast provides instructions as to the time of day an advertisement is permitted to be broadcast.
Some TV advertisements receive instructions to be broadcast all day, some after 7.30pm, others are permitted all day except around children’s programme and the more graphic advertisements after 9pm, so as to take account of audience age.
My Department always complies with these instructions.
Advertisements online are targeted to adults only in the North of Ireland, unless the content is intended for a younger audience.
Cinema advertising receives age classifications, which again my department always complies with.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043193%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477888"}},{"id":"477887","reference":"AQW 43192/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any steps her Department is taking to ensure that road safety advertising campaigns are trauma-informed, particularly for those who may have been affected by road traffic collisions.","answerText":"All TV advertisements go through the Broadcast Clearance process with Clearcast. During this process, Clearcast provides instructions as to the time of day an advertisement is permitted to be broadcast. Some TV advertisements receive instructions to be broadcast all day, some after 7.30pm, and the more graphic advertisements after 9pm, to take account audience age.\n\nThe Department always complies with these instructions. Advertisements online are targeted to adults only in the north of Ireland, unless the content is intended for a younger audience.\n\nCinema advertising receives age classifications, which again the department always complies with.\n\nRoad safety messages are relevant to all, including those families affected by road traffic collisions. However, if anyone finds a particular campaign traumatic because of their own personal circumstances if they contact my officials within the Road Safety Promotion team, we can make them aware of the TV schedule so that they can avoid the campaign.","answerHtml":"All TV advertisements go through the Broadcast Clearance process with Clearcast. During this process, Clearcast provides instructions as to the time of day an advertisement is permitted to be broadcast. Some TV advertisements receive instructions to be broadcast all day, some after 7.30pm, and the more graphic advertisements after 9pm, to take account audience age.
The Department always complies with these instructions. Advertisements online are targeted to adults only in the north of Ireland, unless the content is intended for a younger audience.
Cinema advertising receives age classifications, which again the department always complies with.
Road safety messages are relevant to all, including those families affected by road traffic collisions. However, if anyone finds a particular campaign traumatic because of their own personal circumstances if they contact my officials within the Road Safety Promotion team, we can make them aware of the TV schedule so that they can avoid the campaign.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043192%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477887"}},{"id":"477886","reference":"AQW 43191/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of recent road safety advertising campaigns, including any evidence of changes in driver behaviour.","answerText":"It is globally recognised that three elements working together are required to improve road safety and help reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions. These elements which are commonly referred to as the three E’s are Engineering, Education, and Enforcement; my Department’s road safety campaigns contribute to the education element of this fundamental framework\n\nStatistics tell us that over 95% of collisions are caused by human error, this statement refers to the most recent five-year period (2020-2024). This being the case, my Department’s road safety campaigns play a significant role in influencing road user behaviour contributing to a reduction of death and serious injuries on roads here.\n\nIn the past 3 years, the Department has produced and launched 4 major advertising campaigns that have either been evaluated with independent tracking research or have been scheduled for this evaluation:\n\nCareless Driving – “Driver or Passenger” – 85% of those surveyed agreed the advertising made them reconsider the consequences of careless driving, while 89% said it made them think about their own behaviour. 71% of people who were aware of the campaign reported having taken action, e.g. driving more attentively.\n\nDrug Driving – 76% of people aware who were aware of the campaign reported the campaign challenged their thinking on driving under the influence of drugs. The campaign also significantly increased awareness of Drug driving as a problem in the north and of police testing drivers for drugs.\n\nTracking research is scheduled for the new “Control or Speed” and “Priorities List” campaigns.","answerHtml":"It is globally recognised that three elements working together are required to improve road safety and help reduce the number of people killed or seriously injured in road traffic collisions. These elements which are commonly referred to as the three E’s are Engineering, Education, and Enforcement; my Department’s road safety campaigns contribute to the education element of this fundamental framework
Statistics tell us that over 95% of collisions are caused by human error, this statement refers to the most recent five-year period (2020-2024). This being the case, my Department’s road safety campaigns play a significant role in influencing road user behaviour contributing to a reduction of death and serious injuries on roads here.
In the past 3 years, the Department has produced and launched 4 major advertising campaigns that have either been evaluated with independent tracking research or have been scheduled for this evaluation:
Careless Driving – “Driver or Passenger” – 85% of those surveyed agreed the advertising made them reconsider the consequences of careless driving, while 89% said it made them think about their own behaviour. 71% of people who were aware of the campaign reported having taken action, e.g. driving more attentively.
Drug Driving – 76% of people aware who were aware of the campaign reported the campaign challenged their thinking on driving under the influence of drugs. The campaign also significantly increased awareness of Drug driving as a problem in the north and of police testing drivers for drugs.
Tracking research is scheduled for the new “Control or Speed” and “Priorities List” campaigns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043191%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477886"}},{"id":"477885","reference":"AQW 43190/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-25","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the total cost of road safety advertising campaigns, in the last five years, broken down by media type.","answerText":"Various platforms have been utilised for road safety advertising campaigns, including, TV, Radio, Online/social media, Cinema and Outdoor. Please see table below.\n\nYear\tTV\tRadio\tCinema\tOnline/social media\tOutdoor\n2024/25\t189,405.00\t107,093.34\t9,215.20\t58,492.15\t188,227.59\n2023/24\t168,661.04\t42,449.54\t4,754.75\t17,999.70\t198,638.06\n2022/23\t-\t-\t-\t-\t-\n2021/22\t44,884.84\t29,817.02\t-\t-\t-\n2020/21\t635,229.96\t180,412.20\t-\t65,849.80\t199,699.50","answerHtml":"Various platforms have been utilised for road safety advertising campaigns, including, TV, Radio, Online/social media, Cinema and Outdoor. Please see table below.
| Year | TV | Radio | Cinema | Online/social media | Outdoor |
| 2024/25 | 189,405.00 | 107,093.34 | 9,215.20 | 58,492.15 | 188,227.59 |
| 2023/24 | 168,661.04 | 42,449.54 | 4,754.75 | 17,999.70 | 198,638.06 |
| 2022/23 | - | - | - | - | - |
| 2021/22 | 44,884.84 | 29,817.02 | - | - | - |
| 2020/21 | 635,229.96 | 180,412.20 | - | 65,849.80 | 199,699.50 |
There are a wide range of issues that may increase the risk of later suicidal behaviour. This can include bullying, body image, eating disorders, exam stress, abuse and adverse childhood experiences. A wide range of policies and programmes are in place to address these issues.
The National Confidential Inquiry into Suicide and Homicide recommends that agencies that work with children and young people (particularly those in the health, social care, youth justice and education sectors) can contribute to suicide prevention by recognising the pattern of cumulative risks and stress that lead to a suicide attempt. Improved recognition of these features by families and children themselves would also enhance suicide prevention.
A number of actions within the Protect Life 2 Strategy are targeted at younger age groups including: suicide prevention training for teachers, youth workers and sports coaches; emotional resilience building and responding to critical incidents in schools; the schools counselling service; and child focused bereavement services.
Under the Protect Life 2 Strategy the Public Health Agency currently fund the Self Harm Intervention Programme (SHIP) service which is available for anyone aged 11+ who has self-harmed and have needs at Step 2 of the You in Mind care pathway. Health and Social Care Trusts provide services for those requiring support at Step 3 and Step 4. Referrals are made to SHIP by HSC Trusts, and mental health services through a formal referral pathway.
In recognition of data in relation to higher rates of self-harm recorded in younger women, the Public Health Agency (PHA) has scheduled a programme of work to develop a pilot project for young women who have self-harmed or who are at risk of self-harm for the 2026/27 year, subject to funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477637","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477637"}},{"id":"477636","reference":"AQW 43061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he is taking to ensure a consistent approach to the delivery of mental health services across all Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"Action 31 within the Mental Health Strategy commits to the development of a Regional Mental Health Service, operating across the five HSC Trusts, with professional leadership across the region that is responsible for consistency in service delivery and development. The intention is to achieve these objectives by putting appropriate structures in place rather than altering existing organisational boundaries.\n\nA key priority for the RMHS is the development of a blueprint for a regionally consistent community mental health service model, addressing existing unwarranted variation in provision and further expanding area and local collaboratives to enable local providers to better collaborate to address mental needs within communities. A significant scoping exercise is currently underway to establish a baseline of existing community mental health provision across all Trusts. The findings from this exercise will inform the components of the developed blueprint. To inform this work, the RMHS team has undertaken a programme of engagement with Trusts.\n\nWhilst the initial focus has been on secondary care, the team is now also engaging with both primary and secondary care stakeholders to gather input and perspectives. It is anticipated that the blueprint will be developed by Autumn 2026. The RMHS also has an appointed a Regional Service User Consultant, to ensure that the views of service users and carers are proactively sought, consistently represented and incorporated into the decision-making processes.\n\nWorking Together: A Pathway for Children and Young People through CAMHS (2018) sets out the standards that are applied regardless of whatever level of service is required in response to children and young people presenting with emotional and mental health difficulties. The Pathway describes the services available within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, (CAMHS) for all children and young people up to the age of 18 and uses the stepped care model as an operational framework designed to ensure that young people gain access to services aligned to assessed need and delivered in a timely manner.","answerHtml":"Action 31 within the Mental Health Strategy commits to the development of a Regional Mental Health Service, operating across the five HSC Trusts, with professional leadership across the region that is responsible for consistency in service delivery and development. The intention is to achieve these objectives by putting appropriate structures in place rather than altering existing organisational boundaries.
A key priority for the RMHS is the development of a blueprint for a regionally consistent community mental health service model, addressing existing unwarranted variation in provision and further expanding area and local collaboratives to enable local providers to better collaborate to address mental needs within communities. A significant scoping exercise is currently underway to establish a baseline of existing community mental health provision across all Trusts. The findings from this exercise will inform the components of the developed blueprint. To inform this work, the RMHS team has undertaken a programme of engagement with Trusts.
Whilst the initial focus has been on secondary care, the team is now also engaging with both primary and secondary care stakeholders to gather input and perspectives. It is anticipated that the blueprint will be developed by Autumn 2026. The RMHS also has an appointed a Regional Service User Consultant, to ensure that the views of service users and carers are proactively sought, consistently represented and incorporated into the decision-making processes.
Working Together: A Pathway for Children and Young People through CAMHS (2018) sets out the standards that are applied regardless of whatever level of service is required in response to children and young people presenting with emotional and mental health difficulties. The Pathway describes the services available within Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, (CAMHS) for all children and young people up to the age of 18 and uses the stepped care model as an operational framework designed to ensure that young people gain access to services aligned to assessed need and delivered in a timely manner.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043061%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477636","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477636"}},{"id":"477635","reference":"AQW 43060/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any training or guidance that is provided to healthcare professionals to support decision-making on when it is appropriate to involve family members or carers in cases where a patient may be at risk of self-harm or suicide.","answerText":"Protect Life 2 is Northern Ireland’s strategy for the prevention of suicide and self-harm. With regards to suicide, a recurrent concern raised by families is their perception that staff exclude them from the mental healthcare of their relative by excessive adherence to patient confidentiality. Learning from serious adverse incident reviews also commonly reports a failure to share information as a recurrent theme in deaths by suicide.\n\nBest practice in mental health care is for families and carers to have as much involvement as possible in the assessment process, including the opportunity to express their views on potential risk. Care plans and safety plans should also be collaboratively developed where possible.\n\nTo help address family concerns, a Consensus Statement for information sharing and suicide prevention was developed and published in 2014 (updated and republished in 2021). Under Protect Life 2 we have developed and published the SHARE confidentiality and consent guidelines to support HSC staff in this regard: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-share-guide-ni_0.pdf.\n\nThe Consensus statement and guidance do not seek to change existing legal requirements or professional guidance in respect of confidentiality rather they are designed to increase confidence, safety and better partnerships to improve mental health assessment and safety planning.\n\nThe guidelines aim to support mental health and social care staff in putting the Consensus Statement into action and to advise more broadly on how to engage with patients when discussing issues of confidentiality and consent to share information. They also aim to enhance a partnership approach between professionals, the individual at risk, agencies and carers involved. To help support staff in the use of the SHARE guidelines an online training programme has been developed by Northern Ireland’s Clinical Education Council and training is delivered across HSC Trusts.\n\nIt is my view that it would be very beneficial for General Practice to have access to both SHARE guidelines and the associated training. The Chief Medical Officer has also requested the Towards Zero Suicide collaborative to consider feasibility of further rollout which could potentially include Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, and Allied Health Professions in the undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum. Promotion across services, including those that interface most widely with Mental Health and Addictions Services would also be particularly beneficial.\n\nThe collaborative have engaged with the Royal College of Psychiatry and with the West Belfast GP Federation on these matters. To date outcomes of this engagement include the sharing of SHARE guidelines and training via the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) psychiatry education lead for inclusion in teaching modules for psychiatry trainees, and also via college for undergraduate students teaching. SHARE guidelines and training have also been added to the GPNI website. Consideration is also being given to the optimum method for further roll out to GPs.\n\nMy officials remain engaged with the collaborative with a view to furthering the reach of the SHARE guidance in accordance with the views previously expressed by the Chief Medical Officer.\n\nGiven the substantial steps taken to improve consent and confidentiality guidelines, the Department is not intending to explore legislation in this area.","answerHtml":"Protect Life 2 is Northern Ireland’s strategy for the prevention of suicide and self-harm. With regards to suicide, a recurrent concern raised by families is their perception that staff exclude them from the mental healthcare of their relative by excessive adherence to patient confidentiality. Learning from serious adverse incident reviews also commonly reports a failure to share information as a recurrent theme in deaths by suicide.
Best practice in mental health care is for families and carers to have as much involvement as possible in the assessment process, including the opportunity to express their views on potential risk. Care plans and safety plans should also be collaboratively developed where possible.
To help address family concerns, a Consensus Statement for information sharing and suicide prevention was developed and published in 2014 (updated and republished in 2021). Under Protect Life 2 we have developed and published the SHARE confidentiality and consent guidelines to support HSC staff in this regard: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-share-guide-ni_0.pdf.
The Consensus statement and guidance do not seek to change existing legal requirements or professional guidance in respect of confidentiality rather they are designed to increase confidence, safety and better partnerships to improve mental health assessment and safety planning.
The guidelines aim to support mental health and social care staff in putting the Consensus Statement into action and to advise more broadly on how to engage with patients when discussing issues of confidentiality and consent to share information. They also aim to enhance a partnership approach between professionals, the individual at risk, agencies and carers involved. To help support staff in the use of the SHARE guidelines an online training programme has been developed by Northern Ireland’s Clinical Education Council and training is delivered across HSC Trusts.
It is my view that it would be very beneficial for General Practice to have access to both SHARE guidelines and the associated training. The Chief Medical Officer has also requested the Towards Zero Suicide collaborative to consider feasibility of further rollout which could potentially include Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, and Allied Health Professions in the undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum. Promotion across services, including those that interface most widely with Mental Health and Addictions Services would also be particularly beneficial.
The collaborative have engaged with the Royal College of Psychiatry and with the West Belfast GP Federation on these matters. To date outcomes of this engagement include the sharing of SHARE guidelines and training via the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) psychiatry education lead for inclusion in teaching modules for psychiatry trainees, and also via college for undergraduate students teaching. SHARE guidelines and training have also been added to the GPNI website. Consideration is also being given to the optimum method for further roll out to GPs.
My officials remain engaged with the collaborative with a view to furthering the reach of the SHARE guidance in accordance with the views previously expressed by the Chief Medical Officer.
Given the substantial steps taken to improve consent and confidentiality guidelines, the Department is not intending to explore legislation in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477635","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477635"}},{"id":"477634","reference":"AQW 43059/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any consideration has been given to introducing a system whereby patients engaging with mental health services can nominate a support person to be involved in their care.","answerText":"Under the current partial implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, there is no universal statutory system for a nominated support person. However, the Act does include provision for Nominated Persons, which will apply more broadly on full implementation, particularly in relation to serious interventions, enabling individuals to formally nominate someone to support and represent their views.\n\nHSC trust give consideration to the involvement of nominated support persons to be involved with patients engaging with mental health services including:\n\nMental health services adopt a person-centred approach. Through routine assessment and care planning, practitioners seek - where appropriate and with consent - to identify and involve informal supports such as family members, carers, or other trusted individuals.\n\nPatients participate within the ‘You in Mind Pathway’ which focuses on personalised, collaborative and recovery orientated support. Within this, a partnership approach is encouraged, and all patients are invited to involve support persons such as family/friends. Carers assessments are also offered/provided to these nominated individuals to ensure they too are adequately supported throughout this process to optimise outcomes for both the patient and the nominated individual.\n\nHSC Trusts support this via the Northern Ireland Protect Life 2 Strategy (PLIG2 Strategy) and adoption of the Share Guidelines:\n\nSHARE Guidelines Northern Ireland | Department of Health\n\nInpatient mental health treatment will be actively involved in their plan of care. Where possible, with consent of the patient, next of kin/carers/nominated others are involved in providing collateral history, updates during treatment and in preparing for discharge. staff work in partnership with advocacy services and encourage patients to seek support, especially if they do not have an identified nominated person.","answerHtml":"Under the current partial implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, there is no universal statutory system for a nominated support person. However, the Act does include provision for Nominated Persons, which will apply more broadly on full implementation, particularly in relation to serious interventions, enabling individuals to formally nominate someone to support and represent their views.
HSC trust give consideration to the involvement of nominated support persons to be involved with patients engaging with mental health services including:
Mental health services adopt a person-centred approach. Through routine assessment and care planning, practitioners seek - where appropriate and with consent - to identify and involve informal supports such as family members, carers, or other trusted individuals.
Patients participate within the ‘You in Mind Pathway’ which focuses on personalised, collaborative and recovery orientated support. Within this, a partnership approach is encouraged, and all patients are invited to involve support persons such as family/friends. Carers assessments are also offered/provided to these nominated individuals to ensure they too are adequately supported throughout this process to optimise outcomes for both the patient and the nominated individual.
HSC Trusts support this via the Northern Ireland Protect Life 2 Strategy (PLIG2 Strategy) and adoption of the Share Guidelines:
SHARE Guidelines Northern Ireland | Department of Health
Inpatient mental health treatment will be actively involved in their plan of care. Where possible, with consent of the patient, next of kin/carers/nominated others are involved in providing collateral history, updates during treatment and in preparing for discharge. staff work in partnership with advocacy services and encourage patients to seek support, especially if they do not have an identified nominated person.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043059%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477634","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477634"}},{"id":"477633","reference":"AQW 43058/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-24","answerBy":"2026-04-10","answered":"2026-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any guidance for healthcare professionals on involving family members or carers in the care of patients presenting with mental health concerns, particularly where there is a risk of self-harm or suicide.","answerText":"Protect Life 2 is Northern Ireland’s strategy for the prevention of suicide and self-harm. With regards to suicide, a recurrent concern raised by families is their perception that staff exclude them from the mental healthcare of their relative by excessive adherence to patient confidentiality. Learning from serious adverse incident reviews also commonly reports a failure to share information as a recurrent theme in deaths by suicide.\n\nBest practice in mental health care is for families and carers to have as much involvement as possible in the assessment process, including the opportunity to express their views on potential risk. Care plans and safety plans should also be collaboratively developed where possible.\n\nTo help address family concerns, a Consensus Statement for information sharing and suicide prevention was developed and published in 2014 (updated and republished in 2021). Under Protect Life 2 we have developed and published the SHARE confidentiality and consent guidelines to support HSC staff in this regard: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-share-guide-ni_0.pdf.\n\nThe Consensus statement and guidance do not seek to change existing legal requirements or professional guidance in respect of confidentiality rather they are designed to increase confidence, safety and better partnerships to improve mental health assessment and safety planning.\n\nThe guidelines aim to support mental health and social care staff in putting the Consensus Statement into action and to advise more broadly on how to engage with patients when discussing issues of confidentiality and consent to share information. They also aim to enhance a partnership approach between professionals, the individual at risk, agencies and carers involved. To help support staff in the use of the SHARE guidelines an online training programme has been developed by Northern Ireland’s Clinical Education Council and training is delivered across HSC Trusts.\n\nIt is my view that it would be very beneficial for General Practice to have access to both SHARE guidelines and the associated training. The Chief Medical Officer has also requested the Towards Zero Suicide collaborative to consider feasibility of further rollout which could potentially include Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, and Allied Health Professions in the undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum. Promotion across services, including those that interface most widely with Mental Health and Addictions Services would also be particularly beneficial.\n\nThe collaborative have engaged with the Royal College of Psychiatry and with the West Belfast GP Federation on these matters. To date outcomes of this engagement include the sharing of SHARE guidelines and training via the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) psychiatry education lead for inclusion in teaching modules for psychiatry trainees, and also via college for undergraduate students teaching. SHARE guidelines and training have also been added to the GPNI website. Consideration is also being given to the optimum method for further roll out to GPs.\n\nMy officials remain engaged with the collaborative with a view to furthering the reach of the SHARE guidance in accordance with the views previously expressed by the Chief Medical Officer.\n\nGiven the substantial steps taken to improve consent and confidentiality guidelines, the Department is not intending to explore legislation in this area.","answerHtml":"Protect Life 2 is Northern Ireland’s strategy for the prevention of suicide and self-harm. With regards to suicide, a recurrent concern raised by families is their perception that staff exclude them from the mental healthcare of their relative by excessive adherence to patient confidentiality. Learning from serious adverse incident reviews also commonly reports a failure to share information as a recurrent theme in deaths by suicide.
Best practice in mental health care is for families and carers to have as much involvement as possible in the assessment process, including the opportunity to express their views on potential risk. Care plans and safety plans should also be collaboratively developed where possible.
To help address family concerns, a Consensus Statement for information sharing and suicide prevention was developed and published in 2014 (updated and republished in 2021). Under Protect Life 2 we have developed and published the SHARE confidentiality and consent guidelines to support HSC staff in this regard: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-share-guide-ni_0.pdf.
The Consensus statement and guidance do not seek to change existing legal requirements or professional guidance in respect of confidentiality rather they are designed to increase confidence, safety and better partnerships to improve mental health assessment and safety planning.
The guidelines aim to support mental health and social care staff in putting the Consensus Statement into action and to advise more broadly on how to engage with patients when discussing issues of confidentiality and consent to share information. They also aim to enhance a partnership approach between professionals, the individual at risk, agencies and carers involved. To help support staff in the use of the SHARE guidelines an online training programme has been developed by Northern Ireland’s Clinical Education Council and training is delivered across HSC Trusts.
It is my view that it would be very beneficial for General Practice to have access to both SHARE guidelines and the associated training. The Chief Medical Officer has also requested the Towards Zero Suicide collaborative to consider feasibility of further rollout which could potentially include Nursing, Midwifery, Social Work, and Allied Health Professions in the undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum. Promotion across services, including those that interface most widely with Mental Health and Addictions Services would also be particularly beneficial.
The collaborative have engaged with the Royal College of Psychiatry and with the West Belfast GP Federation on these matters. To date outcomes of this engagement include the sharing of SHARE guidelines and training via the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) psychiatry education lead for inclusion in teaching modules for psychiatry trainees, and also via college for undergraduate students teaching. SHARE guidelines and training have also been added to the GPNI website. Consideration is also being given to the optimum method for further roll out to GPs.
My officials remain engaged with the collaborative with a view to furthering the reach of the SHARE guidance in accordance with the views previously expressed by the Chief Medical Officer.
Given the substantial steps taken to improve consent and confidentiality guidelines, the Department is not intending to explore legislation in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043058%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477633","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477633"}},{"id":"477398","reference":"AQW 42950/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-23","answerBy":"2026-04-09","answered":"2026-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has carried out any assessment of the impact on children and families of any potential reduction or withdrawal of funding for the TinyStart programme, delivered by TinyLife.","answerText":"The Budgets for 2026/27 have not yet been set by the Executive, I am therefore not presently in a position to provide any commitments or timescales to funding for the TinyStart programme. Any decision regarding future funding will be considered in the context of my Department’s 2026/27 budget allocation, the allocation of earmarked funding for the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and wider financial pressures.\n\nOn that basis, no formal assessments of the impacts on children and families of any potential reduction or withdrawal of funding has been undertaken at this stage.","answerHtml":"The Budgets for 2026/27 have not yet been set by the Executive, I am therefore not presently in a position to provide any commitments or timescales to funding for the TinyStart programme. Any decision regarding future funding will be considered in the context of my Department’s 2026/27 budget allocation, the allocation of earmarked funding for the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and wider financial pressures.
On that basis, no formal assessments of the impacts on children and families of any potential reduction or withdrawal of funding has been undertaken at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042950%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477398","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477398"}},{"id":"477397","reference":"AQW 42949/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-23","answerBy":"2026-04-09","answered":"2026-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) an update on his decision regarding funding for the TinyStart programme delivered by TinyLife; and (ii) when a final decision is expected.","answerText":"The Budgets for 2026/27 have not yet been set by the Executive, I am therefore not presently in a position to provide any commitments or timescales to funding for the TinyStart programme. Any decision regarding future funding will be considered in the context of my Department’s 2026/27 budget allocation, the allocation of earmarked funding for the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and wider financial pressures.\n\nOn that basis, no formal assessments of the impacts on children and families of any potential reduction or withdrawal of funding has been undertaken at this stage.","answerHtml":"The Budgets for 2026/27 have not yet been set by the Executive, I am therefore not presently in a position to provide any commitments or timescales to funding for the TinyStart programme. Any decision regarding future funding will be considered in the context of my Department’s 2026/27 budget allocation, the allocation of earmarked funding for the Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and wider financial pressures.
On that basis, no formal assessments of the impacts on children and families of any potential reduction or withdrawal of funding has been undertaken at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042949%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477397","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477397"}},{"id":"477396","reference":"AQW 42948/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-23","answerBy":"2026-04-09","answered":"2026-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail a timeline for the laying of legislation on the sale and supply of puppies and kittens.","answerText":"My officials are currently drafting the necessary legislation to provide for the new requirements for sale and supply of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland.\n\nIt is important that local councils, which will be legally responsible for enforcing the legislation, have sufficient opportunity to prepare for implementing the new requirements. Officials therefore continue to engage with councils and remain open to their input to ensure the legislation can be executed as intended. This work will help inform appropriate timelines.\n\nI remain committed to introducing legislation to protect puppies and kittens for sale in Northern Ireland, at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently drafting the necessary legislation to provide for the new requirements for sale and supply of puppies and kittens in Northern Ireland.
It is important that local councils, which will be legally responsible for enforcing the legislation, have sufficient opportunity to prepare for implementing the new requirements. Officials therefore continue to engage with councils and remain open to their input to ensure the legislation can be executed as intended. This work will help inform appropriate timelines.
I remain committed to introducing legislation to protect puppies and kittens for sale in Northern Ireland, at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042948%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477396"}},{"id":"477181","reference":"AQW 42849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-20","answerBy":"2026-04-08","answered":"2026-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any (i) assessment has been made of the condition and remaining operational lifespan of Holywell Hospital; and (ii) risk assessment has been undertaken in relation to a potential gap in inpatient mental health provision in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in event it becomes unfit for purpose prior to the opening of the Birch Hill mental health facility.","answerText":"The response to these questions has been informed by part input response from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust:\n\n(i) The Northern Health and Social Care Trust have now received results from a comprehensive six-facet estate appraisal completed by chartered surveyors from the consultancy firm Rider Levett Bucknall. This considered physical condition, functional suitability, space utilisation, quality, statutory compliance and environmental management.\n\nThe appraisal identified a significant backlog maintenance requirement across the Holywell Hospital estate. The physical condition backlog was approximately £42.7 million, with approximately £38.5 million directly attributable to building-related costs. This includes significant requirements associated with building fabric, engineering infrastructure, drainage, asbestos, fire safety, accessibility and lifecycle replacement of major building services.\n\nThe appraisal also identified functional suitability deficiencies, estimated at approximately £5.2 million, reflecting the limitations of the current accommodation and its ability to support modern healthcare standards and contemporary models of care.\n\nStatutory compliance-related backlog was identified at approximately £13.5 million gross.\n\nThe assessment confirmed that significant elements of the Holywell Hospital estate are now life-expired or approaching the end of their expected operational life, meaning that the existing estate is becoming increasingly difficult and costly to sustain as a long-term healthcare facility.\n\n(ii) The Trust have acknowledged the risk posed by the deterioration of the existing Holywell estate and continue to take action to mitigate against further deterioration via non-recurrent annual task and finish funding released by my Department to tackle the priority items. This mitigation will continue until such times that there is budget availability to construct a replacement facility.","answerHtml":"The response to these questions has been informed by part input response from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust:
(i) The Northern Health and Social Care Trust have now received results from a comprehensive six-facet estate appraisal completed by chartered surveyors from the consultancy firm Rider Levett Bucknall. This considered physical condition, functional suitability, space utilisation, quality, statutory compliance and environmental management.
The appraisal identified a significant backlog maintenance requirement across the Holywell Hospital estate. The physical condition backlog was approximately £42.7 million, with approximately £38.5 million directly attributable to building-related costs. This includes significant requirements associated with building fabric, engineering infrastructure, drainage, asbestos, fire safety, accessibility and lifecycle replacement of major building services.
The appraisal also identified functional suitability deficiencies, estimated at approximately £5.2 million, reflecting the limitations of the current accommodation and its ability to support modern healthcare standards and contemporary models of care.
Statutory compliance-related backlog was identified at approximately £13.5 million gross.
The assessment confirmed that significant elements of the Holywell Hospital estate are now life-expired or approaching the end of their expected operational life, meaning that the existing estate is becoming increasingly difficult and costly to sustain as a long-term healthcare facility.
(ii) The Trust have acknowledged the risk posed by the deterioration of the existing Holywell estate and continue to take action to mitigate against further deterioration via non-recurrent annual task and finish funding released by my Department to tackle the priority items. This mitigation will continue until such times that there is budget availability to construct a replacement facility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477181","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477181"}},{"id":"477180","reference":"AQW 42848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-20","answerBy":"2026-04-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any assessment has been made of the capacity of community mental health services in the Causeway area to meet increased demand following the proposed transfer of inpatient beds from the Ross Thomson Unit; and (ii) to detail any additional resources that will be provided to support this transition.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477180","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477180"}},{"id":"477179","reference":"AQW 42847/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-20","answerBy":"2026-04-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the impact on staff retention at Causeway Hospital following the proposed transfer of inpatient mental health beds from the Ross Thomson Unit, including any measures being taken to address this.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042847%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477179","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477179"}},{"id":"477178","reference":"AQW 42846/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-20","answerBy":"2026-04-08","answered":"2026-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on when a decision will be made regarding emergency general surgery provision at Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"The Northern Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024. The consultation outcomes report was submitted to the Department of Health in May 2025. My Department is currently considering the recommendation of Northern HSC Trust Board, including any potential impact on other Trusts. In line with the DoH Circular on Change or Withdrawal of Service, the final decision on a permanent change or withdrawal of service rests with the Minister.","answerHtml":"The Northern Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024. The consultation outcomes report was submitted to the Department of Health in May 2025. My Department is currently considering the recommendation of Northern HSC Trust Board, including any potential impact on other Trusts. In line with the DoH Circular on Change or Withdrawal of Service, the final decision on a permanent change or withdrawal of service rests with the Minister.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042846%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=477178","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=477178"}},{"id":"476911","reference":"AQW 42760/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any specific measures within the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which will address the needs of low to middle income working households, who are not in receipt of benefits, but are experiencing financial hardship.","answerText":"The Executive’s draft Anti-Poverty Strategy aims to address poverty and the impacts of socio-economic disadvantage by means of a joined up, cross-departmental, long-term approach.\n\nAddressing the needs of low to middle income working households, who are not in receipt of benefits is a key priority for me.\n\nThe draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains a number of interventions which will help a wide range of people experiencing financial hardship. These include supports to help people increase income, address debt or other issues which impact on their lives and increase their incomes. Some of the most relevant commitments, which are delivered by Departments across the Executive, include:\n\nWorking with delivery partners to scope an NI Debt Respite Scheme.\n\nWorking with the Money and Pension Service to implement a local delivery plan for the UK Financial Wellbeing Strategy.\n\nContinuing to deliver the Extended Schools Programme which provides a range of support in the form of breakfast clubs, after school activities, parental engagement, literacy and numeracy support, healthy eating etc.\n\nIntroducing legislation to ensure that school uniforms are affordable for all families.\n\nDeveloping and delivering a Warm Healthy Homes Strategy\n\nBringing forward a draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy for public consultation.\n\nContinuing to support the advice sector to ensure that good quality, free, independent, advice is available to those living in or at risk of poverty.\n\nThis list is not exhaustive, and final content of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be dependent on budgetary priorities across all departments, and subject to Executive Agreement.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s draft Anti-Poverty Strategy aims to address poverty and the impacts of socio-economic disadvantage by means of a joined up, cross-departmental, long-term approach.
Addressing the needs of low to middle income working households, who are not in receipt of benefits is a key priority for me.
The draft Anti-Poverty Strategy contains a number of interventions which will help a wide range of people experiencing financial hardship. These include supports to help people increase income, address debt or other issues which impact on their lives and increase their incomes. Some of the most relevant commitments, which are delivered by Departments across the Executive, include:
Working with delivery partners to scope an NI Debt Respite Scheme.
Working with the Money and Pension Service to implement a local delivery plan for the UK Financial Wellbeing Strategy.
Continuing to deliver the Extended Schools Programme which provides a range of support in the form of breakfast clubs, after school activities, parental engagement, literacy and numeracy support, healthy eating etc.
Introducing legislation to ensure that school uniforms are affordable for all families.
Developing and delivering a Warm Healthy Homes Strategy
Bringing forward a draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy for public consultation.
Continuing to support the advice sector to ensure that good quality, free, independent, advice is available to those living in or at risk of poverty.
This list is not exhaustive, and final content of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be dependent on budgetary priorities across all departments, and subject to Executive Agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042760%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476911","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476911"}},{"id":"476910","reference":"AQW 42759/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration he has given to introducing a more graduated, or tapered, approach to financial support, to address potential issues faced by households whose income places them just above eligibility thresholds.","answerText":"I recognise concerns about households whose incomes fall just above eligibility thresholds for income-related supports. Eligibility criteria are designed to target limited resources at those most in need, while ensuring fairness and consistency.\n\nWithin this approach, my Department has taken steps to widen access to the Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS), including raising income limits and excluding certain benefits from assessments. Most recently, War Pension and Armed Forces Compensation payments were excluded, and my officials are currently reviewing other disability-related payments to ensure the most vulnerable can continue to access the scheme. Looking ahead, the new Warm Healthy Homes Fund, due to launch in 2027, will replace AWS, with proposals to revise eligibility criteria, including increased income thresholds, to be consulted on shortly.\n\nRelated considerations apply across other supports. Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) already operate a graduated approach through a statutory means test. I am however aware that some households may still find it difficult to access such funding and my officials, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Department of Health colleagues, are currently reviewing all NIHE-administered private sector grants to identify improvements, with a consultation due to issue in the coming months.\n\nSimilarly, Housing Benefit is means tested, with entitlement reduced on a tapered basis where income exceeds thresholds. Additional support, such as the Lone Pensioner Allowance, is also available in specific circumstances but is not means tested.","answerHtml":"I recognise concerns about households whose incomes fall just above eligibility thresholds for income-related supports. Eligibility criteria are designed to target limited resources at those most in need, while ensuring fairness and consistency.
Within this approach, my Department has taken steps to widen access to the Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS), including raising income limits and excluding certain benefits from assessments. Most recently, War Pension and Armed Forces Compensation payments were excluded, and my officials are currently reviewing other disability-related payments to ensure the most vulnerable can continue to access the scheme. Looking ahead, the new Warm Healthy Homes Fund, due to launch in 2027, will replace AWS, with proposals to revise eligibility criteria, including increased income thresholds, to be consulted on shortly.
Related considerations apply across other supports. Disabled Facilities Grants (DFG) already operate a graduated approach through a statutory means test. I am however aware that some households may still find it difficult to access such funding and my officials, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and the Department of Health colleagues, are currently reviewing all NIHE-administered private sector grants to identify improvements, with a consultation due to issue in the coming months.
Similarly, Housing Benefit is means tested, with entitlement reduced on a tapered basis where income exceeds thresholds. Additional support, such as the Lone Pensioner Allowance, is also available in specific circumstances but is not means tested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042759%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476910"}},{"id":"476909","reference":"AQW 42758/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of the number of working households, who are not in receipt of benefits, but are experiencing financial hardship due to rising living costs.","answerText":"Whilst I remain committed to ensuring that the Anti-Poverty Strategy is taken forward in the most effective and expeditious way possible, my Department does not hold specific information on households not in receipt of benefits who are experiencing hardship due to rising living costs.\n\nMy Department publishes the Northern Ireland Poverty and Income Inequality Report, which presents annual estimates of the proportion of people, children, working-age adults and pensioners in Northern Ireland living in poverty, as well as other statistics on household income and income inequality.\n\nThis report uses data from the Northern Ireland Family Resources Survey and includes a range of low-income poverty indicators including relative poverty, absolute poverty, and combined low income and material deprivation.","answerHtml":"Whilst I remain committed to ensuring that the Anti-Poverty Strategy is taken forward in the most effective and expeditious way possible, my Department does not hold specific information on households not in receipt of benefits who are experiencing hardship due to rising living costs.
My Department publishes the Northern Ireland Poverty and Income Inequality Report, which presents annual estimates of the proportion of people, children, working-age adults and pensioners in Northern Ireland living in poverty, as well as other statistics on household income and income inequality.
This report uses data from the Northern Ireland Family Resources Survey and includes a range of low-income poverty indicators including relative poverty, absolute poverty, and combined low income and material deprivation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042758%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476909","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476909"}},{"id":"476908","reference":"AQW 42757/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of the impact of rising living costs on low-to-middle income working households, including whether current wage growth is keeping pace with inflation.","answerText":"My Department is closely monitoring the financial pressures facing households across the North. The Consumer Council NI Household Expenditure Tracker (Northern Ireland Household Expenditure Tracker | Consumer Council) highlights the scale of these pressures and how heavily everyday essentials weigh on family finances. For example, in Q3 2025, the lowest‑earning households spent 45.1% of their total basic spending on food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing, electricity, gas and other fuels, and transport.\n\nAgainst this backdrop, the latest NISRA labour market statistics shows strong wage growth, with median monthly pay increasing by £43 (1.8%) over the month to £2,493 in February 2026, an annual rise of £189 (8.2%). After accounting for CPI inflation of 3.0%, the real annual growth in median monthly pay was around 5.2%. However, inflationary pressures remain uncertain. The Bank of England has warned that ongoing global energy disruption linked to conflict in the Middle East will place upward pressure on households’ fuel and utility prices. As a result, CPI inflation is expected to rise in the near term.\n\nI recognise that, although real wage growth has been positive, continued inflationary pressures and the risk of further price shocks mean that real household incomes particularly for low-to-middle income working families are likely to remain under strain.\n\nI will continue to monitor developments closely and press the British Government to take further action to shield consumers and businesses from additional financial pressures as this situation evolves.","answerHtml":"My Department is closely monitoring the financial pressures facing households across the North. The Consumer Council NI Household Expenditure Tracker (Northern Ireland Household Expenditure Tracker | Consumer Council) highlights the scale of these pressures and how heavily everyday essentials weigh on family finances. For example, in Q3 2025, the lowest‑earning households spent 45.1% of their total basic spending on food and non-alcoholic beverages, housing, electricity, gas and other fuels, and transport.
Against this backdrop, the latest NISRA labour market statistics shows strong wage growth, with median monthly pay increasing by £43 (1.8%) over the month to £2,493 in February 2026, an annual rise of £189 (8.2%). After accounting for CPI inflation of 3.0%, the real annual growth in median monthly pay was around 5.2%. However, inflationary pressures remain uncertain. The Bank of England has warned that ongoing global energy disruption linked to conflict in the Middle East will place upward pressure on households’ fuel and utility prices. As a result, CPI inflation is expected to rise in the near term.
I recognise that, although real wage growth has been positive, continued inflationary pressures and the risk of further price shocks mean that real household incomes particularly for low-to-middle income working families are likely to remain under strain.
I will continue to monitor developments closely and press the British Government to take further action to shield consumers and businesses from additional financial pressures as this situation evolves.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042757%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476908","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476908"}},{"id":"476907","reference":"AQW 42756/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-03","answered":"2026-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any discussions he has had with Executive colleagues regarding financial support, or relief measures, for working households who are not eligible for benefits but are experiencing financial pressure.","answerText":"While any additional funding is welcome, the £17.2 million that the British Government have made available to the Executive in response to the significant rise in global oil prices falls well short of what is required, particularly given the widespread reliance on home heating oil here and the scale of increase in fuel costs to date. I raised the matter with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in person at the F:ISC meeting on the 19 March and I will continue to press the British Government for further support.\n\nGiven the limited funding provided, in my view this must be focussed on supporting those on the lowest income. Therefore, I have written to the Communities Minister to ask that he brings forward proposals as a matter of urgency to the Executive setting out how he could use this funding to support households impacted.","answerHtml":"While any additional funding is welcome, the £17.2 million that the British Government have made available to the Executive in response to the significant rise in global oil prices falls well short of what is required, particularly given the widespread reliance on home heating oil here and the scale of increase in fuel costs to date. I raised the matter with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in person at the F:ISC meeting on the 19 March and I will continue to press the British Government for further support.
Given the limited funding provided, in my view this must be focussed on supporting those on the lowest income. Therefore, I have written to the Communities Minister to ask that he brings forward proposals as a matter of urgency to the Executive setting out how he could use this funding to support households impacted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042756%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476907"}},{"id":"476859","reference":"AQO 3385/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-19","answerBy":"2026-04-13","answered":"2026-04-13","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any steps she is taking to address the impact of unadopted developments on homeowners who are unable to sell their properties.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"With your permission, a Cheann Comhairle,"},{"speaker":"","text":"I will answer questions 3 and 7 together. I recognise the very real difficulties that are faced by homeowners who live in unadopted developments, particularly in cases where the developer is no longer trading and the bond held by the Department is insufficient to complete the works that are required to bring the streets up to an adoptable standard. Responsibility for constructing roads and associated infrastructure to an adoptable standard rests with the developer. Where a developer fails to do that, my Department has discretionary enforcement powers under the private streets legislation, including the option to draw down on any bond of surety that is in place. However, in a number of older developments, the value of the bond does not fully reflect the cost of the outstanding works. In such circumstances, there is no legal obligation on my Department to fund the shortfall between the bond value and the cost of completion, and there is currently no dedicated budget to do so. That said, my Department continues to take a case-by-case approach. Officials will pursue developers where they remain in existence, seek to maximise the use of any available bond and engage with residents to explain the options available. Where enforcement action is considered appropriate and proportionate, it may be taken, subject to available resources and legal considerations. More importantly, I am determined to prevent those situations from arising in the future. Following the Assembly's consideration of the issue, my Department introduced strengthened private streets enforcement guidance in 2025. That has improved how and when enforcement action is initiated, tightened bond release arrangements and significantly reduced the risk of new developments entering long-term unadopted status. While those measures cannot retrospectively resolve all legacy cases, they represent an important step in better protecting homeowners. I will continue to keep the position under review and engage with Executive colleagues and the Assembly on that complex and longstanding issue."},{"speaker":"Mr McMurray","text":"Thank you, Minister. You acknowledged that the developers are ultimately responsible, but there have been policy failures that led to the current situation. You referenced the future, but will you develop more robust responses in order to help those who are already stuck in unadopted developments?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"As I said, I appreciate the strength of feeling around legacy issues where people have been caught in such situations, particularly where the developer is no longer trading. I regularly receive correspondence from the many people who are in such situations across the North where that issue has had an impact."},{"speaker":"","text":"At present, there are no plans to review or amend the private streets legislation. It is important to recognise that any legislative change would need careful consideration, particularly in relation to cost, fairness and legal liability. We had a discussion following the previous question on the ability to maintain our roads to a standard. We struggle to maintain the adopted roads that are already within our responsibility, so we have to be cautious about adding further costs to the mix. I am not shirking my responsibility. The Department has not caused the situation, but we are trying to tighten measures to protect people. As I said in response to the previous question, I will continue to keep that position under review and to engage with the Executive and the Assembly on the issue, because I recognise that it is stressful for anybody who is impacted on. It is important to take all that into consideration in moving forward."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Minister, unadopted developments and roads are a long-standing issue. It is long past time that we just review it: we need to take action on it. Do you agree that we need more government intervention and possibly new legislation? People are unable to sell their homes, and damage is being caused to cars. It is not enough to keep it under review any more. We need to take firm action, and you are the Minister who can do that."},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"As I said, I am not in any way underestimating its impact, but I have to ensure that I have the ability to deliver on it. That is why I have said that I will keep it under review. There are a number of factors that we have to carefully consider as part of that. As the Member said, it is a long-standing issue. It is impacting on many sites across the North. I can only imagine that the scale of that and the cost of rectifying it would be significant. We have to be careful about what we promise people because it is another thing to be able to deliver on it. That said, we have to continually look at that to see what else we can do. I have tried to ensure that we put in place policy that protects people going forward. That is a recognition of the significant impact. I am happy to continue to work on it. I take the Member's point that it is not good enough to keep it under review, but we have to remember where the issue arose from. There were measures in place to try to ensure that it did not happen. We will continue to engage on it and will see what else is available to us, but, at this point in time, I have brought forward policy changes to try to protect people as best I can within the remit that I have."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dillon","text":"I apologise for not being in my place for question 1 during Question Time to the Executive Office. I welcome the new MLA to the Chamber and offer our well wishes to Gary. We are thinking of him. Minister, with regard to actions to strengthen enforcement and reduce the risk of new housing developments becoming long-term unadopted sites, can you outline exactly what you are doing in working with planners? It is not all about money; some of it is about the inability to adopt sites because they do not have sight lines. Irresponsible actions are being carried out by developers, and those who end up picking up the costs are unknowing, unwitting people who buy homes in those developments and are left in a position where they cannot sell, cannot get mortgages, cannot develop their homes and cannot move house."},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"In September 2025, I announced the introduction of new private streets enforcement guidance that strengthens how and when enforcement action is taken. The guidance establishes a clear threshold for initiating enforcement action two years after a development reaches 80% occupancy. Alongside that, my Department has amended bond release thresholds, which enables a larger proportion of the bond to be retained. That provides greater assurance that sufficient funds are available to bring new developments up to an adoptable standard where enforcement becomes necessary. Taken together, those measures significantly reduce the risk of new developments remaining unadopted and provide stronger protection for homeowners while maintaining the principle that responsibility for private streets rests with the developer until adoption. I think that there are a number of factors. The Member is right in saying that there are other things that do not involve cost, but everybody needs to take responsibility to find a solution. It is totally unfair that those homeowners are left in that position, but the reality is that the cost to rectify that will be huge. We have to think about how we got to this position. As I said, I will continue to look at things on a case-by-case basis, because not all cases are the same. Whilst there are probably common themes, there are some cases that we can continue to work on. That is why I have said that we will keep things under review, and, where possible, I am willing to provide support through the Department."},{"speaker":"Mrs Erskine","text":"I am working on the issue through my private Member's Bill. Recently, the Minister announced developer-led contributions, but surely that already happens by way of the article 161 mechanism whereby developers can construct their own waste water treatment in developments. I have seen countless situations where NI Water and her Department failed to adopt developments after construction. Therefore, will the developer-led contributions not lead to more unadopted developments and add to the crisis that is affecting homeowners across Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"First, I am delighted to see the Member back, and I hope that Olivia is doing well. It is great to have you back, but I know that you have had a busy time over the past number of months. Developer-led contributions are slightly different, and it is important to provide that clarity. At present, NI Water cannot accept funding to deliver waste water connections for a developer. The contributions that I am bringing forward will allow developers to fund connection so that they can make a contribution to allow that to go ahead. That will help to unlock capacity in areas where NI Water cannot, at present, deliver the connections. It is slightly different in the sense that it will allow developers, through a contribution-based approach, to carry out works to the standard that NI Water would deliver. In some of the conversations that we have had, developers have been quite frustrated. There may be areas of constraint where, with the current price control, NI Water has not been able to get that work done. There may be potential for some developers to come together to unlock capacity in certain areas, and that would enable them to do so where they are willing to make that voluntary contribution. The existing legislation does not allow for that, and that is why I have chosen to bring that forward on a voluntary basis at the beginning. We will review that to see whether we can look at a compulsory contribution scheme going forward."},{"speaker":"Ms D Armstrong","text":"I am dealing with four cases of unadopted developments in Fermanagh. In one of those cases, the residents, at great personal cost, have put forward money to ensure that the bond is expanded and that more money is available there. That process is ongoing, and the lack of further movement is causing considerable anguish. Is it fair that residents who are contributing financially to a solution are having to wait an extremely long time for a resolution?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I encourage the Member, if she so wishes, to write to the Department about that specific case to give me a wee bit more detail. I am not familiar with that case off the top of my head. I will be happy to look at that and see whether there is any way of expediting that. I am not sure about the reason for the delay, but I am happy to look at it. If that is a potential way of finding a solution to allow those homeowners to move forward with their lives, we will, absolutely, be happy to do anything that we can to facilitate it."},{"speaker":"Mr Carroll","text":"Road maintenance is welcome when it happens. You will probably be aware of the situation in the Lagmore area of west Belfast, where it has taken a lifetime to get roadworks completed. A lot of disruption and frustration has been caused, and people do not know why it is taking so long. Have you or your Department engaged in any discussions with the developer about making some form of financial payment to assist with maintenance?"},{"speaker":"Ms Kimmins","text":"I am not familiar with whether there have been discussions about that. I am not even sure whether that would be appropriate. I encourage the Member to write to the Department so that I can provide a more detailed response. I am aware of recent schemes that have been delivered in Lagmore. Whilst I appreciate that delays and disruptions to people's daily lives can be very frustrating, I hope that the outcome has been widely welcomed, because I know that those works were badly needed. My colleague Danny Baker is not here, but I know that he has been lobbying for some time to ensure delivery in that area. I appreciate that frustration has been caused, but I hope that people will benefit from that work now."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203385%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476859","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-04-13&docID=477835#AQO%203385/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476859"}},{"id":"476640","reference":"AQW 42659/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-18","answerBy":"2026-04-02","answered":"2026-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his Department’s engagement with health and justice colleagues in Northern Ireland, and with counterparts in England, regarding the Children’s Wellbeing and Schools Bill; and (ii) whether any provisions may inform policy in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I am aware of the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill currently progressing through the Parliamentary stages at Westminster. The Bill applies to England only and brings forward a broad package of provisions relating to children’s social care and the school system. While elements of the Bill may provide useful context for future policy development, and officials are engaging with colleagues from across health and justice in terms of relevant areas of commonality, it is important to recognise the distinct legislative framework and differing social care and education structures in place in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Bill is relevant to safeguarding and wellbeing in education policy responsibilities, this includes work in respect of increasing online safety intervention, strengthening early identification, information sharing and multi-agency working. This aligns with our focus on preventative, whole-system approaches where schools play a key role in identifying risk and promoting wellbeing.\n\nAs part of our ongoing refresh of safeguarding guidance and the wellbeing framework, we will consider relevant elements of the Bill to support greater clarity, consistency and effective practice across schools, ensuring safe and supportive environments for all children and young people.\n\nOn Children Missing Education (CME), officials are currently reviewing potential legislative gaps and are working to develop comprehensive Departmental guidance on the issue. Engagement has taken place with counterparts in England on CME policy and relevant provisions within the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill. Addressing CME effectively requires a coordinated, multi-agency approach. To that end, my officials continue to engage closely with colleagues in the Department of Health and the Education Authority (EA) to explore opportunities for improved information sharing and collaborative action in this policy area. Work is underway to examine the processes and policies in place across other jurisdictions, with a view to identifying best practice and informing local approaches.\n\nMy officials have engaged with their counterparts in England about the school uniforms provisions in the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill. The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 came into operation on 20 February 2026. Engagement with England continues to ensure that there is two-way sharing of information as we implement our legislation and as their Bill works through the Parliamentary process.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill currently progressing through the Parliamentary stages at Westminster. The Bill applies to England only and brings forward a broad package of provisions relating to children’s social care and the school system. While elements of the Bill may provide useful context for future policy development, and officials are engaging with colleagues from across health and justice in terms of relevant areas of commonality, it is important to recognise the distinct legislative framework and differing social care and education structures in place in Northern Ireland.
The Bill is relevant to safeguarding and wellbeing in education policy responsibilities, this includes work in respect of increasing online safety intervention, strengthening early identification, information sharing and multi-agency working. This aligns with our focus on preventative, whole-system approaches where schools play a key role in identifying risk and promoting wellbeing.
As part of our ongoing refresh of safeguarding guidance and the wellbeing framework, we will consider relevant elements of the Bill to support greater clarity, consistency and effective practice across schools, ensuring safe and supportive environments for all children and young people.
On Children Missing Education (CME), officials are currently reviewing potential legislative gaps and are working to develop comprehensive Departmental guidance on the issue. Engagement has taken place with counterparts in England on CME policy and relevant provisions within the Children’s Wellbeing & Schools Bill. Addressing CME effectively requires a coordinated, multi-agency approach. To that end, my officials continue to engage closely with colleagues in the Department of Health and the Education Authority (EA) to explore opportunities for improved information sharing and collaborative action in this policy area. Work is underway to examine the processes and policies in place across other jurisdictions, with a view to identifying best practice and informing local approaches.
My officials have engaged with their counterparts in England about the school uniforms provisions in the Children's Wellbeing and Schools Bill. The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Act (Northern Ireland) 2026 came into operation on 20 February 2026. Engagement with England continues to ensure that there is two-way sharing of information as we implement our legislation and as their Bill works through the Parliamentary process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042659%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476640","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476640"}},{"id":"476639","reference":"AQW 42658/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-18","answerBy":"2026-04-02","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department would consider using the 16 to 18 Legislation to address safeguarding issues relating to elective home education, identified in the consultation document.","answerText":"The legislation being developed provides for all young people to continue their education or training for two years following compulsory school age. This can be achieved through education or training in school, FE College, CAFRE or home education; or education in parallel with working or volunteering.\n\nThe proposed legislation will strengthen the system’s ability to monitor participation and intervene early when a young person disengages.\n\nGiven the purpose and scope of the Bill, it would not be appropriate to add substantive provisions relating to elective home education at this time.","answerHtml":"The legislation being developed provides for all young people to continue their education or training for two years following compulsory school age. This can be achieved through education or training in school, FE College, CAFRE or home education; or education in parallel with working or volunteering.
The proposed legislation will strengthen the system’s ability to monitor participation and intervene early when a young person disengages.
Given the purpose and scope of the Bill, it would not be appropriate to add substantive provisions relating to elective home education at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042658%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476639","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476639"}},{"id":"476638","reference":"AQW 42657/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-18","answerBy":"2026-04-02","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his Department's plans to address safeguarding relating to elective home education, highlighted in the consultation on the 16 to 18 Legislation, including any plans to improve the current practice ahead of potential legislation.","answerText":"The legislation being developed provides for all young people to continue their education or training for two years following compulsory school age. This can be achieved through education or training in school, FE College, CAFRE or home education; or education in parallel with working or volunteering.\n\nThe proposed legislation will strengthen the system’s ability to monitor participation and intervene early when a young person disengages.\n\nGiven the purpose and scope of the Bill, it would not be appropriate to add substantive provisions relating to elective home education at this time.","answerHtml":"The legislation being developed provides for all young people to continue their education or training for two years following compulsory school age. This can be achieved through education or training in school, FE College, CAFRE or home education; or education in parallel with working or volunteering.
The proposed legislation will strengthen the system’s ability to monitor participation and intervene early when a young person disengages.
Given the purpose and scope of the Bill, it would not be appropriate to add substantive provisions relating to elective home education at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042657%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476638","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476638"}},{"id":"476637","reference":"AQW 42656/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-18","answerBy":"2026-04-02","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, in relation to the 16 to 18 Legislation, to detail (i) his Department's reasoning for proposing that 16 and 17 year olds should not be permitted to choose elective home education; and (ii) whether further consideration has been given to the policy position regarding elective home education for children under the age of 16, referenced in the consultation document.","answerText":"The legislation being developed provides for all young people to continue their education or training for two years following compulsory school age. This can be achieved through education or training in school, FE College, CAFRE or home education; or education in parallel with working or volunteering.\n\nThe proposed legislation will strengthen the system’s ability to monitor participation and intervene early when a young person disengages.\n\nGiven the purpose and scope of the Bill, it would not be appropriate to add substantive provisions relating to elective home education at this time.","answerHtml":"The legislation being developed provides for all young people to continue their education or training for two years following compulsory school age. This can be achieved through education or training in school, FE College, CAFRE or home education; or education in parallel with working or volunteering.
The proposed legislation will strengthen the system’s ability to monitor participation and intervene early when a young person disengages.
Given the purpose and scope of the Bill, it would not be appropriate to add substantive provisions relating to elective home education at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042656%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476637","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476637"}},{"id":"476414","reference":"AQW 42569/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-16","answerBy":"2026-04-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to improve awareness of cardiovascular disease risk among women.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042569%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476414","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476414"}},{"id":"476413","reference":"AQW 42568/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-16","answerBy":"2026-04-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department routinely collects and analyses sex-disaggregated data on cardiovascular diagnosis, treatment and outcomes.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042568%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476413","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476413"}},{"id":"476412","reference":"AQW 42567/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-16","answerBy":"2026-04-01","answered":"2026-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome are routinely advised of their increased risk of cardiovascular disease.","answerText":"The General Medical Services (GMS) Clinical Team advises that it is not possible to speak on behalf of all General Practitioners (GPs) regarding how individual clinical diagnoses are managed, nor how advice is provided on a casebycase basis for individual patients.\n\nPolycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) may be diagnosed by GPs, although it is equally likely to be diagnosed by gynaecology services. GPs may signpost patients to appropriate information resources, such as patient information leaflets, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms and Treatment. This leaflet outlines, among other matters, the potential increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with PCOS.\n\nWomen diagnosed with PCOS would routinely have discussions with their healthcare professional about the impact of the condition on their general health, including the increased risks of obesity and diabetes, which may in turn infer an elevated cardiovascular risk. For women who attend gynaecology clinics, a PCOSspecific patient information leaflet can also be provided as part of their care.","answerHtml":"The General Medical Services (GMS) Clinical Team advises that it is not possible to speak on behalf of all General Practitioners (GPs) regarding how individual clinical diagnoses are managed, nor how advice is provided on a casebycase basis for individual patients.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) may be diagnosed by GPs, although it is equally likely to be diagnosed by gynaecology services. GPs may signpost patients to appropriate information resources, such as patient information leaflets, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Symptoms and Treatment. This leaflet outlines, among other matters, the potential increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with PCOS.
Women diagnosed with PCOS would routinely have discussions with their healthcare professional about the impact of the condition on their general health, including the increased risks of obesity and diabetes, which may in turn infer an elevated cardiovascular risk. For women who attend gynaecology clinics, a PCOSspecific patient information leaflet can also be provided as part of their care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042567%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476412","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476412"}},{"id":"476411","reference":"AQW 42566/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-16","answerBy":"2026-04-01","answered":"2026-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of potential gender bias in the diagnosis, treatment or referral pathways for cardiovascular disease.","answerText":"There is growing evidence internationally of a systemic gender gap in relation to how cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have traditionally been diagnosed and treated within healthcare systems. Although this is not yet fully understood, it is now accepted that – while CVDs are more prevalent among men – women can present differently with early symptoms which can be misdiagnosed, resulting in fewer diagnostic investigations, fewer cardiac medications being prescribed and fewer interventions.\n\nStudies have shown that women are more likely to be interrupted, have their symptoms psychologised, or be advised to “wait and see”, and that traditional risk factors such as diabetes, cholesterol, age and smoking may have different weights and relevance in men and women. Coupled with the challenge of improving awareness and prevention of cardiovascular risk factors among women and girls, this represents an important issue which must be understood and reflected in clinical education, triage tools and risk assessments in order to mitigate any disparities in diagnosis and treatment.\n\nCurrently, however, the relevant NICE guidelines on cardiovascular health apply to all adults and do not include specific guidance on diagnostic and treatment disparities affecting women. They focus on population level risk tools, lifestyle risk modification, and treatment escalation. The Northern Ireland Cardiac Network also works to ensure that the entire population has equitable access to highquality cardiac care. My Department will continue to work closely with the Network to identify and implement any improvements that can strengthen existing diagnostic and treatment pathways for women.\n\nMy Department has published data on acute, episode-based activity at HSC Trusts in Northern Ireland during the year ending 31 March 2025 at: Hospital Statistics: Acute Episode-Based Activity Statistics 2024/2025. This publication presents information on diagnosis and procedures broken down by several variables including sex, however does not include information on outcomes.","answerHtml":"There is growing evidence internationally of a systemic gender gap in relation to how cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) have traditionally been diagnosed and treated within healthcare systems. Although this is not yet fully understood, it is now accepted that – while CVDs are more prevalent among men – women can present differently with early symptoms which can be misdiagnosed, resulting in fewer diagnostic investigations, fewer cardiac medications being prescribed and fewer interventions.
Studies have shown that women are more likely to be interrupted, have their symptoms psychologised, or be advised to “wait and see”, and that traditional risk factors such as diabetes, cholesterol, age and smoking may have different weights and relevance in men and women. Coupled with the challenge of improving awareness and prevention of cardiovascular risk factors among women and girls, this represents an important issue which must be understood and reflected in clinical education, triage tools and risk assessments in order to mitigate any disparities in diagnosis and treatment.
Currently, however, the relevant NICE guidelines on cardiovascular health apply to all adults and do not include specific guidance on diagnostic and treatment disparities affecting women. They focus on population level risk tools, lifestyle risk modification, and treatment escalation. The Northern Ireland Cardiac Network also works to ensure that the entire population has equitable access to highquality cardiac care. My Department will continue to work closely with the Network to identify and implement any improvements that can strengthen existing diagnostic and treatment pathways for women.
My Department has published data on acute, episode-based activity at HSC Trusts in Northern Ireland during the year ending 31 March 2025 at: Hospital Statistics: Acute Episode-Based Activity Statistics 2024/2025. This publication presents information on diagnosis and procedures broken down by several variables including sex, however does not include information on outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042566%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476411"}},{"id":"476410","reference":"AQW 42565/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-16","answerBy":"2026-04-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure women are adequately represented in cardiovascular clinical research.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042565%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476410"}},{"id":"476063","reference":"AQO 3339/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-12","answerBy":"2026-03-23","answered":"2026-03-23","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any steps her Department is taking to protect consumers in Northern Ireland from volatility in the home heating oil market.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I am very concerned about the impact of the rise in heating oil prices here following the Israeli-led attacks on Iran. It particularly affects our lower-income and vulnerable households. Approximately 60% of our homes — more than half a million — use home heating oil as their primary source of heating. In recent weeks, I have met representatives of the heating oil and natural gas sectors, National Energy Action (NEA) and the wider business community to understand first-hand what cost pressures are in the market and the impact that those are already having on our lower-income and vulnerable households and businesses. I have consistently pressed Minister Shanks and Minister McCluskey for urgent support for consumers, and I will continue to do so, as the £17 million confirmed on Monday 16 March is clearly inadequate to help those struggling with rising energy prices. My officials and I have engaged with the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA). I welcome its review of the conduct of oil suppliers, intermediaries and brokers to ensure that pricing reflects genuine cost pressures and that behaviour is consistent with consumer protection law. The Trading Standards Service plays a key role in protecting consumers from illegal trading practices, including unfair pricing, while supporting legitimate businesses. It also provides guidance to oil retailers on their obligations and advice to consumers on raising complaints. The Consumer Council provides invaluable information for consumers by monitoring heating oil prices and publishing weekly average prices. Consumers are encouraged to use its website to compare suppliers and find information on oil buying clubs and fuel stamp schemes."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Minister. Given how volatile oil prices can be and given Northern Ireland's particular reliance on the oil market, are you exploring the opportunities within your remit for regulating the market in Northern Ireland, and have you spoken to the UK Government about a potential price cap?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I thank the Member for the question. I am on record as saying that I have ruled nothing out on the issue. However, economic regulation of the home heating oil market has never operated here or, indeed, anywhere in Europe. Around two thirds of the cost of what consumers pay is the wholesale cost. That is out of our control, and regulation would have no direct impact on it. Our heating oil market is very competitive. We have over 200 suppliers. There is a risk that any benefits arising from regulation could be outweighed by the cost of regulation itself. However, when I spoke to Minister McCluskey on 14 March, we discussed those issues and the study that the Competition and Markets Authority was, at that point, likely to undertake and, as it has confirmed, is now undertaking."},{"speaker":"","text":"When I met its representatives last Thursday, we again discussed the issue. We have agreed that my officials will provide data to support its study. We will carefully examine any recommendations that come out of the study. Our oil suppliers make the case that they are price takers. I want to see transparency in that supply chain so that we can understand where costs are being applied. It may well be the case that regulation needs to happen at British Government level, but I am open to looking at the recommendations that come out of the CMA study."},{"speaker":"Madam Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"We now move to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203339%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=476063","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2026-03-23&docID=476718#AQO%203339/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=476063"}},{"id":"475724","reference":"AQW 42279/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-11","answerBy":"2026-03-27","answered":"2026-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether any assessment has been made of the ongoing threat level, faced by retired prison officers in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I hope the member will appreciate that it would be counterproductive to disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.","answerHtml":"I hope the member will appreciate that it would be counterproductive to disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042279%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475724"}},{"id":"475723","reference":"AQW 42278/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-11","answerBy":"2026-03-27","answered":"2026-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department has considered reviewing the policy on protective security arrangements for retired prison officers.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service does not disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service does not disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475723"}},{"id":"475722","reference":"AQW 42277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-11","answerBy":"2026-03-27","answered":"2026-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the reason why protective security arrangements, available to serving Northern Ireland Prison Service staff, are not formally extended to retired officers who may continue to face security risks arising from their former role.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service does not disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service does not disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475722"}},{"id":"475721","reference":"AQW 42276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-11","answerBy":"2026-03-27","answered":"2026-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the rationale for the policy, whereby the Northern Ireland Prison Service ceases maintenance or replacement of security equipment, issued to prison officers six months after retirement.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service does not disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service does not disclose any information about the security arrangements for serving or retired staff into the public domain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042276%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475721","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475721"}},{"id":"475458","reference":"AQW 42176/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-10","answerBy":"2026-03-26","answered":"2026-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether schools are permitted, under the School Uniform Guidelines published in February 2026, to incorporate reflective or high-visibility elements into uniforms where they believe it would improve pupil safety.","answerText":"Claire Sugden MLA\n\nParliament Buildings\n\nBallymiscaw\n\nStormont\n\n26 March 2026\n\nAQW 42174/22-27\n\nClaire Sugden MLA has asked:\n\nTo ask the Minister of Education whether any consideration was given to pupil visibility and road safety when developing the School Uniform Guidelines, published in February 2026.\n\nAQW 42176/22-27\n\nAnd\n\nTo ask the Minister of Education whether schools are permitted, under the School Uniform Guidelines published in February 2026, to incorporate reflective or high-visibility elements into uniforms where they believe it would improve pupil safety.\n\nANSWER\n\nThe answer to both questions is yes. We can all agree that the safety of our children and young people is of paramount importance. The School Uniforms Guidelines, which formally issued on 23 February 2026, set out that the Department considers it reasonable for such safety considerations to inform the design of a school uniform policy. The guidelines use the example of reflective strips on uniform items, but it is open to schools to determine how best to manage this aspect of their uniform design - including any high-visibility or safety element a school considers will be helpful for their pupils.\n\nPaul Givan MLA\n\nMinister of Education","answerHtml":"Claire Sugden MLA
Parliament Buildings
Ballymiscaw
Stormont
26 March 2026
AQW 42174/22-27
Claire Sugden MLA has asked:
To ask the Minister of Education whether any consideration was given to pupil visibility and road safety when developing the School Uniform Guidelines, published in February 2026.
AQW 42176/22-27
And
To ask the Minister of Education whether schools are permitted, under the School Uniform Guidelines published in February 2026, to incorporate reflective or high-visibility elements into uniforms where they believe it would improve pupil safety.
ANSWER
The answer to both questions is yes. We can all agree that the safety of our children and young people is of paramount importance. The School Uniforms Guidelines, which formally issued on 23 February 2026, set out that the Department considers it reasonable for such safety considerations to inform the design of a school uniform policy. The guidelines use the example of reflective strips on uniform items, but it is open to schools to determine how best to manage this aspect of their uniform design - including any high-visibility or safety element a school considers will be helpful for their pupils.
Paul Givan MLA
Minister of Education
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042176%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475458"}},{"id":"475457","reference":"AQW 42175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-10","answerBy":"2026-03-26","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has carried out any assessment of the safety of pupils who must walk along rural roads to access school bus stops, particularly during darker autumn and winter months.","answerText":"Keeping children safe on their journeys to and from school is a priority for my Department. This is reflected in the dedicated Safer Journeys to School Programme, which is taking a wholesystem approach to improving safety.\n\nAs part of this programme, officials will be examining the safety of rural bus stops and the environments in which children wait for, board and alight from buses, including where factors such as visibility, lighting and road layout may increase risk.\n\nA Bus Stop Design Guide was jointly issued by Roads Service and Translink in October 2005 -https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/drd/bus-stop-design-guide-october-2005-internal-017.pdf This document is currently under review for updating. The current guide covers formal bus stops and is primarily focused on the placement and physical layout of bus stops and guidance for Translink on signage.\n\nWhen assessing requests for rural footway provision / extensions, my Department does take into consideration an assessment of children walking along roads to reach any particular bus stops. In the past, my Department has provided footways to formal bus stops from a nearby road junction, sometimes as part of a visibility splay improvement.","answerHtml":"Keeping children safe on their journeys to and from school is a priority for my Department. This is reflected in the dedicated Safer Journeys to School Programme, which is taking a wholesystem approach to improving safety.
As part of this programme, officials will be examining the safety of rural bus stops and the environments in which children wait for, board and alight from buses, including where factors such as visibility, lighting and road layout may increase risk.
A Bus Stop Design Guide was jointly issued by Roads Service and Translink in October 2005 -https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/drd/bus-stop-design-guide-october-2005-internal-017.pdf This document is currently under review for updating. The current guide covers formal bus stops and is primarily focused on the placement and physical layout of bus stops and guidance for Translink on signage.
When assessing requests for rural footway provision / extensions, my Department does take into consideration an assessment of children walking along roads to reach any particular bus stops. In the past, my Department has provided footways to formal bus stops from a nearby road junction, sometimes as part of a visibility splay improvement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475457"}},{"id":"475456","reference":"AQW 42174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-10","answerBy":"2026-03-26","answered":"2026-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether any consideration was given to pupil visibility and road safety when developing the School Uniform Guidelines, published in February 2026.","answerText":"Claire Sugden MLA\n\nParliament Buildings\n\nBallymiscaw\n\nStormont\n\n26 March 2026\n\nAQW 42174/22-27\n\nClaire Sugden MLA has asked:\n\nTo ask the Minister of Education whether any consideration was given to pupil visibility and road safety when developing the School Uniform Guidelines, published in February 2026.\n\nAQW 42176/22-27\n\nAnd\n\nTo ask the Minister of Education whether schools are permitted, under the School Uniform Guidelines published in February 2026, to incorporate reflective or high-visibility elements into uniforms where they believe it would improve pupil safety.\n\nANSWER\n\nThe answer to both questions is yes. We can all agree that the safety of our children and young people is of paramount importance. The School Uniforms Guidelines, which formally issued on 23 February 2026, set out that the Department considers it reasonable for such safety considerations to inform the design of a school uniform policy. The guidelines use the example of reflective strips on uniform items, but it is open to schools to determine how best to manage this aspect of their uniform design - including any high-visibility or safety element a school considers will be helpful for their pupils.\n\nPaul Givan MLA\n\nMinister of Education","answerHtml":"Claire Sugden MLA
Parliament Buildings
Ballymiscaw
Stormont
26 March 2026
AQW 42174/22-27
Claire Sugden MLA has asked:
To ask the Minister of Education whether any consideration was given to pupil visibility and road safety when developing the School Uniform Guidelines, published in February 2026.
AQW 42176/22-27
And
To ask the Minister of Education whether schools are permitted, under the School Uniform Guidelines published in February 2026, to incorporate reflective or high-visibility elements into uniforms where they believe it would improve pupil safety.
ANSWER
The answer to both questions is yes. We can all agree that the safety of our children and young people is of paramount importance. The School Uniforms Guidelines, which formally issued on 23 February 2026, set out that the Department considers it reasonable for such safety considerations to inform the design of a school uniform policy. The guidelines use the example of reflective strips on uniform items, but it is open to schools to determine how best to manage this aspect of their uniform design - including any high-visibility or safety element a school considers will be helpful for their pupils.
Paul Givan MLA
Minister of Education
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475456"}},{"id":"475455","reference":"AQW 42173/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-10","answerBy":"2026-03-26","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any departmental guidance that exists regarding the placement and safety of school bus pick-up and drop-off points, on rural roads.","answerText":"Keeping children safe on their journeys to and from school is a priority for my Department. This is reflected in the dedicated Safer Journeys to School Programme, which is taking a wholesystem approach to improving safety.\n\nAs part of this programme, officials will be examining the safety of rural bus stops and the environments in which children wait for, board and alight from buses, including where factors such as visibility, lighting and road layout may increase risk.\n\nA Bus Stop Design Guide was jointly issued by Roads Service and Translink in October 2005 -https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/drd/bus-stop-design-guide-october-2005-internal-017.pdf This document is currently under review for updating. The current guide covers formal bus stops and is primarily focused on the placement and physical layout of bus stops and guidance for Translink on signage.\n\nWhen assessing requests for rural footway provision / extensions, my Department does take into consideration an assessment of children walking along roads to reach any particular bus stops. In the past, my Department has provided footways to formal bus stops from a nearby road junction, sometimes as part of a visibility splay improvement.","answerHtml":"Keeping children safe on their journeys to and from school is a priority for my Department. This is reflected in the dedicated Safer Journeys to School Programme, which is taking a wholesystem approach to improving safety.
As part of this programme, officials will be examining the safety of rural bus stops and the environments in which children wait for, board and alight from buses, including where factors such as visibility, lighting and road layout may increase risk.
A Bus Stop Design Guide was jointly issued by Roads Service and Translink in October 2005 -https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/drd/bus-stop-design-guide-october-2005-internal-017.pdf This document is currently under review for updating. The current guide covers formal bus stops and is primarily focused on the placement and physical layout of bus stops and guidance for Translink on signage.
When assessing requests for rural footway provision / extensions, my Department does take into consideration an assessment of children walking along roads to reach any particular bus stops. In the past, my Department has provided footways to formal bus stops from a nearby road junction, sometimes as part of a visibility splay improvement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475455","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475455"}},{"id":"475454","reference":"AQW 42172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-10","answerBy":"2026-03-26","answered":"2026-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment his Department has made of the safety risks faced by pupils who must walk along rural roads to access school transport, particularly during darker autumn and winter months.","answerText":"Matters relating to the safety of footpaths, road conditions and street lighting fall within the remit of the Minister for Infrastructure. Officials in my Department and the Education Authority are contributing to the work of the Safer Journeys to School Programme which was established by the Minister for Infrastructure to explore and develop measures aimed at reducing risks for children travelling to school.\n\nUnder the Home to School Transport Policy, parents can be expected to assist with, and accompany their child on, the journey to the bus stop which should be no more than two miles from home for primary school pupils and three miles for post primary school pupils. As responsibility for this part of the journey rests with parents, the Education Authority does not routinely assess these routes.","answerHtml":"Matters relating to the safety of footpaths, road conditions and street lighting fall within the remit of the Minister for Infrastructure. Officials in my Department and the Education Authority are contributing to the work of the Safer Journeys to School Programme which was established by the Minister for Infrastructure to explore and develop measures aimed at reducing risks for children travelling to school.
Under the Home to School Transport Policy, parents can be expected to assist with, and accompany their child on, the journey to the bus stop which should be no more than two miles from home for primary school pupils and three miles for post primary school pupils. As responsibility for this part of the journey rests with parents, the Education Authority does not routinely assess these routes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475454","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475454"}},{"id":"475038","reference":"AQW 42004/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-06","answerBy":"2026-03-24","answered":"2026-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment that has been made of the impact that difficulties accessing GP appointments can have on pressures within Emergency Departments.","answerText":"My Department recognises that difficulties in accessing GP appointments have the potential to influence how patients engage with urgent and emergency care services. However, at present we have no evidence which demonstrates a direct causal link between access to primary care and increased demand in emergency departments (EDs).\n\nOver the last number of years there have been a number of changes to urgent and emergency care services, in particular the development of urgent care centres (UCCs) and minor injuries units (MIUs) which provide alternative and more appropriate services for patients presenting to secondary care with less serious conditions. These changes make direct comparisons for EDs attendances over the last number of years less accurate as they are no longer like-for-like services. However, when the numbers presenting at EDs, UCCs and MIUs are added together, it is possible to make more accurate comparisons in terms of total numbers as shown in the table below.\n\nNew and unplanned attendances at EDs/ UCCs/ MIUs\nYear\tTotal attendances\n2022/23\t790,215\n2023/24\t800,899\n2024/25\t802,495\n\nIt should be noted that total ED attendances pre-pandemic for 2019/20 were over 815,000, and so the figures for 2024/25 have not yet reached pre-pandemic levels. The Phone First model which was introduced in the last number of years and is now in place across all Trusts, could be a factor in reducing overall attendances.\n\nIn addition to these new services in secondary care, measures such as the continued development of multi-disciplinary teams and non-medical support roles are intended to improve access and ensure patients receive appropriate care in the community. My Department will continue to monitor this issue as part of the broader urgent and emergency care reform programme.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises that difficulties in accessing GP appointments have the potential to influence how patients engage with urgent and emergency care services. However, at present we have no evidence which demonstrates a direct causal link between access to primary care and increased demand in emergency departments (EDs).
Over the last number of years there have been a number of changes to urgent and emergency care services, in particular the development of urgent care centres (UCCs) and minor injuries units (MIUs) which provide alternative and more appropriate services for patients presenting to secondary care with less serious conditions. These changes make direct comparisons for EDs attendances over the last number of years less accurate as they are no longer like-for-like services. However, when the numbers presenting at EDs, UCCs and MIUs are added together, it is possible to make more accurate comparisons in terms of total numbers as shown in the table below.
| New and unplanned attendances at EDs/ UCCs/ MIUs | |
| Year | Total attendances |
| 2022/23 | 790,215 |
| 2023/24 | 800,899 |
| 2024/25 | 802,495 |
It should be noted that total ED attendances pre-pandemic for 2019/20 were over 815,000, and so the figures for 2024/25 have not yet reached pre-pandemic levels. The Phone First model which was introduced in the last number of years and is now in place across all Trusts, could be a factor in reducing overall attendances.
In addition to these new services in secondary care, measures such as the continued development of multi-disciplinary teams and non-medical support roles are intended to improve access and ensure patients receive appropriate care in the community. My Department will continue to monitor this issue as part of the broader urgent and emergency care reform programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042004%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475038","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475038"}},{"id":"475037","reference":"AQW 42003/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-06","answerBy":"2026-03-24","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to improve access to GP services, particularly in areas where patients report difficulty obtaining timely appointments.","answerText":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. Decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce. At this point in time it is not mandatory for GP practices to make online appointments available to their patients. While all practices have the technology available to enable this, it remains their choice in how they manage and deliver their services within their individual practice.\n\nTo support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations on how practices could maximise their telephony and technology to help meet patient demand.\n\nI have been clear that improving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has made available significant funding to help General Practice meet the growing demands for primary care services and enable practices to improve their telephony systems, improve accessibility and increase staffing levels to ensure telephony demand is managed effectively. In addition, my Department has announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.\n\nMy Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. Decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce. At this point in time it is not mandatory for GP practices to make online appointments available to their patients. While all practices have the technology available to enable this, it remains their choice in how they manage and deliver their services within their individual practice.
To support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations on how practices could maximise their telephony and technology to help meet patient demand.
I have been clear that improving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has made available significant funding to help General Practice meet the growing demands for primary care services and enable practices to improve their telephony systems, improve accessibility and increase staffing levels to ensure telephony demand is managed effectively. In addition, my Department has announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.
My Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042003%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475037"}},{"id":"475036","reference":"AQW 42002/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-06","answerBy":"2026-03-24","answered":"2026-04-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department takes to ensure that older people are able to access GP services easily, particularly those who may have mobility issues, limited transport options or difficulty using digital systems.","answerText":"I recognise that some older people may face challenges when accessing GP services. This may be due to difficulties using digital options such as online appointment systems, text messaging or virtual consultation, mobility issues, or other needs.\n\nAll GP practices are required to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and make reasonable adjustments to accommodate affected patients, for example, those with mobility issues. GPs can address these requirements based on their in-depth knowledge of the patient’s situation and that of their family support or carers and adjust to recognise any known limitations. For example, GPs and district nurses will often make home visits to accommodate elderly patients who are unable to attend the practice, including where a patient is unable to manage public transport and no relative is available to assist.\n\nFor elderly patients who are unfamiliar with digital systems, prescriptions can continue to be ordered by phone or at the reception desk and patients can obtain advice on their complaint by phone or in person, as well as by home visit, where considered appropriate. A range of support is available for individuals with additional communication needs, for example, language translation services, Text Relay for patients who are hearingimpaired, and the use of induction loops.\n\nImproving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.\n\nIn addition, to support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations relating to the needs of vulnerable groups, including older people.","answerHtml":"I recognise that some older people may face challenges when accessing GP services. This may be due to difficulties using digital options such as online appointment systems, text messaging or virtual consultation, mobility issues, or other needs.
All GP practices are required to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and make reasonable adjustments to accommodate affected patients, for example, those with mobility issues. GPs can address these requirements based on their in-depth knowledge of the patient’s situation and that of their family support or carers and adjust to recognise any known limitations. For example, GPs and district nurses will often make home visits to accommodate elderly patients who are unable to attend the practice, including where a patient is unable to manage public transport and no relative is available to assist.
For elderly patients who are unfamiliar with digital systems, prescriptions can continue to be ordered by phone or at the reception desk and patients can obtain advice on their complaint by phone or in person, as well as by home visit, where considered appropriate. A range of support is available for individuals with additional communication needs, for example, language translation services, Text Relay for patients who are hearingimpaired, and the use of induction loops.
Improving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.
In addition, to support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations relating to the needs of vulnerable groups, including older people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042002%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475036","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475036"}},{"id":"475035","reference":"AQW 42001/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-06","answerBy":"2026-03-24","answered":"2026-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to support GP practices to adopt technology that improves appointment management and patient access, including telephone triage and online booking systems.","answerText":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. Decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce. At this point in time it is not mandatory for GP practices to make online appointments available to their patients. While all practices have the technology available to enable this, it remains their choice in how they manage and deliver their services within their individual practice.\n\nTo support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations on how practices could maximise their telephony and technology to help meet patient demand.\n\nI have been clear that improving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has made available significant funding to help General Practice meet the growing demands for primary care services and enable practices to improve their telephony systems, improve accessibility and increase staffing levels to ensure telephony demand is managed effectively. In addition, my Department has announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.\n\nMy Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. Decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce. At this point in time it is not mandatory for GP practices to make online appointments available to their patients. While all practices have the technology available to enable this, it remains their choice in how they manage and deliver their services within their individual practice.
To support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations on how practices could maximise their telephony and technology to help meet patient demand.
I have been clear that improving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has made available significant funding to help General Practice meet the growing demands for primary care services and enable practices to improve their telephony systems, improve accessibility and increase staffing levels to ensure telephony demand is managed effectively. In addition, my Department has announced investment of £61m over the next 4 years to support the wider rollout of the Primary Care MDT model which will provide access to a wider range of services in Primary Care and will help stabilise GP services.
My Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042001%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475035","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475035"}},{"id":"475034","reference":"AQW 42000/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-06","answerBy":"2026-03-24","answered":"2026-04-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration his Department has given to the barriers some older people may face when accessing GP appointments, including challenges with telephone triage and online booking systems.","answerText":"I recognise that some older people may face challenges when accessing GP services. This may be due to difficulties using digital options such as online appointment systems, text messaging or virtual consultation, mobility issues, or other needs.\n\nAll GP practices are required to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and make reasonable adjustments to accommodate affected patients, for example, those with mobility issues. GPs can address these requirements based on their in-depth knowledge of the patient’s situation and that of their family support or carers and adjust to recognise any known limitations. For example, GPs and district nurses will often make home visits to accommodate elderly patients who are unable to attend the practice, including where a patient is unable to manage public transport and no relative is available to assist.\n\nFor elderly patients who are unfamiliar with digital systems, prescriptions can continue to be ordered by phone or at the reception desk and patients can obtain advice on their complaint by phone or in person, as well as by home visit, where considered appropriate. A range of support is available for individuals with additional communication needs, for example, language translation services, Text Relay for patients who are hearingimpaired, and the use of induction loops.\n\nImproving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.\n\nIn addition, to support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations relating to the needs of vulnerable groups, including older people.","answerHtml":"I recognise that some older people may face challenges when accessing GP services. This may be due to difficulties using digital options such as online appointment systems, text messaging or virtual consultation, mobility issues, or other needs.
All GP practices are required to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act and make reasonable adjustments to accommodate affected patients, for example, those with mobility issues. GPs can address these requirements based on their in-depth knowledge of the patient’s situation and that of their family support or carers and adjust to recognise any known limitations. For example, GPs and district nurses will often make home visits to accommodate elderly patients who are unable to attend the practice, including where a patient is unable to manage public transport and no relative is available to assist.
For elderly patients who are unfamiliar with digital systems, prescriptions can continue to be ordered by phone or at the reception desk and patients can obtain advice on their complaint by phone or in person, as well as by home visit, where considered appropriate. A range of support is available for individuals with additional communication needs, for example, language translation services, Text Relay for patients who are hearingimpaired, and the use of induction loops.
Improving access to GP services for patients is a key priority for me. My Department has commenced negotiations with the NIGPC on the GMS contract for 2026/27. Developing robust measures to improve access to GP services for implementation in 2026/27 will be a core requirement in seeking agreement on the Contract.
In addition, to support GPs in improving service delivery, my Department has issued a best practice guide, ‘Making All Contacts Count’, which includes recommendations relating to the needs of vulnerable groups, including older people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042000%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=475034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=475034"}},{"id":"474224","reference":"AQW 41726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-03","answerBy":"2026-03-19","answered":"2026-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any monitoring arrangements her Department has in place to (i) track volatility in the home heating oil market; and (ii) assess its impact on consumers.","answerText":"The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has increased volatility in global energy markets.\n\nThe Consumer Council actively monitors heating oil prices across the North and publishes weekly average prices. This provides consumers with clear, comparable information on prevailing prices, helping them to make informed purchasing decisions and to shop around between suppliers.\n\nThe Trading Standards Service works to protect consumers from illegal trading practices, such as unfair pricing, while supporting legitimate businesses. It provides guidance to oil retailers on their obligations and if consumers have a complaint about oil deliveries, they should contact the Department for the Economy’s consumer advice helpline Consumerline on 0300 123 6262 or log on to Consumerline.\n\nI welcome the Competition and Markets Authority’s announcement of a market study into home heating oil. It will serve to strengthen competition, improve transparency and consumer protection, and ensure pricing reflects genuine costs.\n\nIn recent weeks I have met heating oil, natural gas, National Energy Action, and wider business organisations to understand first-hand what cost pressures are in the market and the impact these are already having on lower income and vulnerable households and businesses.\n\nI am meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey. I continue to press for urgent consumer support, as the £17million confirmed on Monday 16 March is clearly inadequate to help those who are struggling with rising energy prices.","answerHtml":"The escalation of conflict in the Middle East has increased volatility in global energy markets.
The Consumer Council actively monitors heating oil prices across the North and publishes weekly average prices. This provides consumers with clear, comparable information on prevailing prices, helping them to make informed purchasing decisions and to shop around between suppliers.
The Trading Standards Service works to protect consumers from illegal trading practices, such as unfair pricing, while supporting legitimate businesses. It provides guidance to oil retailers on their obligations and if consumers have a complaint about oil deliveries, they should contact the Department for the Economy’s consumer advice helpline Consumerline on 0300 123 6262 or log on to Consumerline.
I welcome the Competition and Markets Authority’s announcement of a market study into home heating oil. It will serve to strengthen competition, improve transparency and consumer protection, and ensure pricing reflects genuine costs.
In recent weeks I have met heating oil, natural gas, National Energy Action, and wider business organisations to understand first-hand what cost pressures are in the market and the impact these are already having on lower income and vulnerable households and businesses.
I am meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey. I continue to press for urgent consumer support, as the £17million confirmed on Monday 16 March is clearly inadequate to help those who are struggling with rising energy prices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474224"}},{"id":"474223","reference":"AQW 41725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-03","answerBy":"2026-03-19","answered":"2026-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any assessment her Department has carried out of energy support schemes used elsewhere in the UK; and (ii) whether any UK schemes could be applied in Northern Ireland, especially for households that rely on home heating oil.","answerText":"When the conflict in the Middle East, began, the reduction in electricity bills of around £30 per year had already been announced and delivery was being progressed by my Department.\n\nMany of our households and businesses are already under pressure from the cost‑of‑living crisis, and this new energy shock is compounding those pressures. I am particularly concerned about the impact on low‑income and vulnerable households.\n\nI have pressed the British government for support and I continue to do so. I spoke to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Energy Minister, Michael Shanks on 4th March to highlight the impact of the immediate rise in heating oil costs here.\n\nI subsequently spoke and wrote to Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Energy Consumers Minister, Martin McCluskey about the urgent need for support.\n\nThe £17 million announced by the British government is clearly inadequate, therefore, it is important that whatever support is available, or becomes available going forward, is targeted at those in most need.\n\nI am meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey, and I will continue to argue for additional support.","answerHtml":"When the conflict in the Middle East, began, the reduction in electricity bills of around £30 per year had already been announced and delivery was being progressed by my Department.
Many of our households and businesses are already under pressure from the cost‑of‑living crisis, and this new energy shock is compounding those pressures. I am particularly concerned about the impact on low‑income and vulnerable households.
I have pressed the British government for support and I continue to do so. I spoke to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Energy Minister, Michael Shanks on 4th March to highlight the impact of the immediate rise in heating oil costs here.
I subsequently spoke and wrote to Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s Energy Consumers Minister, Martin McCluskey about the urgent need for support.
The £17 million announced by the British government is clearly inadequate, therefore, it is important that whatever support is available, or becomes available going forward, is targeted at those in most need.
I am meeting regularly with the Ministers from the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Michael Shanks and Martin McCluskey, and I will continue to argue for additional support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474223"}},{"id":"474222","reference":"AQW 41724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-03","answerBy":"2026-03-19","answered":"2026-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department is considering introducing any additional consumer protection measures, in response to rising home heating oil prices.","answerText":"The home heating oil retail market operates under the rules of competition legislation. Trading Standards Service works with the heating oil industry to help ensure that everyone is operating within competition and consumer protection law.\n\nAlso, the Consumer Council actively monitors heating oil prices here and publishes weekly average prices to allow people to shop around between suppliers.\n\nThe Competition and Markets Authority has launched a market study into the retail supply of home heating oil including the market in the North. It will examine whether the market is working well for consumers. If it finds that it is not, it is expected to identify opportunities to help improve outcomes for consumers in this market.","answerHtml":"The home heating oil retail market operates under the rules of competition legislation. Trading Standards Service works with the heating oil industry to help ensure that everyone is operating within competition and consumer protection law.
Also, the Consumer Council actively monitors heating oil prices here and publishes weekly average prices to allow people to shop around between suppliers.
The Competition and Markets Authority has launched a market study into the retail supply of home heating oil including the market in the North. It will examine whether the market is working well for consumers. If it finds that it is not, it is expected to identify opportunities to help improve outcomes for consumers in this market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474222"}},{"id":"474221","reference":"AQW 41723/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-03","answerBy":"2026-03-19","answered":"2026-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether eligibility criteria for existing energy efficiency or fuel poverty schemes are kept under review, in light of rising home heating oil prices.","answerText":"I am aware that the price of home heating oil has risen considerably in recent weeks. I am very concerned about the potential impact of this on lower income or vulnerable households.\n\nMy Department leads on energy efficiency policies to help reduce household energy use and lower bills, with support available through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP).\n\nNISEP eligibility criteria are set out in a formal Framework Document approved and published by the Utility Regulator for each programme period, most recently for 2025-27 with schemes delivered annually in line with that framework.\n\nOfficials continue to work closely with the Department for Communities, which has lead responsibility for addressing fuel poverty. Their newly launched Warm Healthy Homes Strategy sets out pathways to support low‑income households and improve energy‑inefficient homes.","answerHtml":"I am aware that the price of home heating oil has risen considerably in recent weeks. I am very concerned about the potential impact of this on lower income or vulnerable households.
My Department leads on energy efficiency policies to help reduce household energy use and lower bills, with support available through the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP).
NISEP eligibility criteria are set out in a formal Framework Document approved and published by the Utility Regulator for each programme period, most recently for 2025-27 with schemes delivered annually in line with that framework.
Officials continue to work closely with the Department for Communities, which has lead responsibility for addressing fuel poverty. Their newly launched Warm Healthy Homes Strategy sets out pathways to support low‑income households and improve energy‑inefficient homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041723%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474221"}},{"id":"474220","reference":"AQW 41722/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-03","answerBy":"2026-03-19","answered":"2026-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any recent engagement her Department has had with the Utility Regulator regarding increases in home heating oil prices; and (ii) any actions arising from those discussions.","answerText":"I am very concerned about the impact of recent rises in oil prices on households and businesses here due to the conflict in the Middle East.\n\nI met with the Utility Regulator, the Consumer Council, heating oil and natural gas representatives on 5 March to discuss energy prices.\n\nWhile home heating oil is sold in a competitive but unregulated retail market and does not fall within the Utility Regulator’s statutory remit, my Department has ongoing engagement regarding potential impacts on gas and electricity prices.\n\nI spoke to the British Minister for Energy Consumers, Martin McCluskey on 14th March, he told me that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is conducting a formal study of the oil retail market. This was formally launched on Friday 20th March and is expected to take around 3 months.\n\nI met with the CMA on Thursday 19th and assured them my officials will provide data to support this study. I will carefully review any recommendations from the findings of this study.\n\nThe Consumer Council provides invaluable information for consumers by monitoring heating oil prices and publishing weekly average prices. Consumers are encouraged to use its website to compare suppliers pricing and find information on oil buying clubs and Fuel Stamp schemes.","answerHtml":"I am very concerned about the impact of recent rises in oil prices on households and businesses here due to the conflict in the Middle East.
I met with the Utility Regulator, the Consumer Council, heating oil and natural gas representatives on 5 March to discuss energy prices.
While home heating oil is sold in a competitive but unregulated retail market and does not fall within the Utility Regulator’s statutory remit, my Department has ongoing engagement regarding potential impacts on gas and electricity prices.
I spoke to the British Minister for Energy Consumers, Martin McCluskey on 14th March, he told me that the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is conducting a formal study of the oil retail market. This was formally launched on Friday 20th March and is expected to take around 3 months.
I met with the CMA on Thursday 19th and assured them my officials will provide data to support this study. I will carefully review any recommendations from the findings of this study.
The Consumer Council provides invaluable information for consumers by monitoring heating oil prices and publishing weekly average prices. Consumers are encouraged to use its website to compare suppliers pricing and find information on oil buying clubs and Fuel Stamp schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041722%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=474220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=474220"}},{"id":"473952","reference":"AQW 41631/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-02","answerBy":"2026-03-18","answered":"2026-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any engagement they have had with Executive colleagues regarding the consideration of PSNI holiday pay as a cross-departmental issue, requiring a block-level approach.","answerText":"In light of ongoing legal proceedings, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.","answerHtml":"In light of ongoing legal proceedings, it would not be appropriate to comment further at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041631%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473952"}},{"id":"473951","reference":"AQW 41630/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-02","answerBy":"2026-03-18","answered":"2026-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any progress made in relation to PSNI holiday pay, including whether the business case has now been advanced to the Department of Finance or the Executive for consideration.","answerText":"My officials are currently considering the PSNI Holiday Pay business case which must satisfy the requisite approvals process, including approval by the Department of Finance.\n\nWhile I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I want to reassure you that my officials are working closely and constructively with the PSNI to progress the Holiday Pay business case as quickly as possible.\n\nHoliday Pay is an exceptional pressure that is wholly unaffordable under any circumstances within existing or future PSNI and DoJ baseline budget\n\nFurthermore, Holiday Pay is an issue that has an impact across all departments and, therefore, a collective solution at Block level will be required.\n\nFurther engagement will be required with the Executive and the DoF to explore potential funding options when the liability crystallises.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently considering the PSNI Holiday Pay business case which must satisfy the requisite approvals process, including approval by the Department of Finance.
While I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I want to reassure you that my officials are working closely and constructively with the PSNI to progress the Holiday Pay business case as quickly as possible.
Holiday Pay is an exceptional pressure that is wholly unaffordable under any circumstances within existing or future PSNI and DoJ baseline budget
Furthermore, Holiday Pay is an issue that has an impact across all departments and, therefore, a collective solution at Block level will be required.
Further engagement will be required with the Executive and the DoF to explore potential funding options when the liability crystallises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041630%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473951"}},{"id":"473950","reference":"AQW 41629/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-03-02","answerBy":"2026-03-18","answered":"2026-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any engagement his Department has had with the Department of Justice in relation to funding the PSNI holiday pay liability, as an exceptional pressure.","answerText":"There has been an ongoing engagement between myself and the Justice Minister, as well as my predecessor, on this issue.\n\nMy officials have also been actively engaging with counterparts in Department of Justice (DoJ), to ensure that my department remains aware of the potential costs that may be incurred.\n\nIn terms of the funding for the financial settlement DoF will continue to engage with counterparts in DoJ to determine the quantum of funding that is required and the time period in which payments fall due.","answerHtml":"There has been an ongoing engagement between myself and the Justice Minister, as well as my predecessor, on this issue.
My officials have also been actively engaging with counterparts in Department of Justice (DoJ), to ensure that my department remains aware of the potential costs that may be incurred.
In terms of the funding for the financial settlement DoF will continue to engage with counterparts in DoJ to determine the quantum of funding that is required and the time period in which payments fall due.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041629%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473950"}},{"id":"473579","reference":"AQW 41452/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-26","answerBy":"2026-03-13","answered":"2026-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to support increased residential accommodation in town centres, including in the East Londonderry constituency, as a means of improving footfall and sustaining local services in towns such as Coleraine.","answerText":"A key objective of the Housing Supply Strategy is to create thriving, inclusive and sustainable communities by providing a range of housing options which are also located close to services such as employment, recreation, community services and access to public transport.\n\nDelivery of the Strategy is intended to supplement the work of Local Councils and the Housing Executive’s place-shaping teams on the development of Local Development Plans. Through the plan-making process, councils are responsible for establishing necessary zonings and policies to meet specific local spatial growth needs, including opportunities for increased town-centre living.","answerHtml":"A key objective of the Housing Supply Strategy is to create thriving, inclusive and sustainable communities by providing a range of housing options which are also located close to services such as employment, recreation, community services and access to public transport.
Delivery of the Strategy is intended to supplement the work of Local Councils and the Housing Executive’s place-shaping teams on the development of Local Development Plans. Through the plan-making process, councils are responsible for establishing necessary zonings and policies to meet specific local spatial growth needs, including opportunities for increased town-centre living.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041452%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473579"}},{"id":"473578","reference":"AQW 41451/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-26","answerBy":"2026-03-13","answered":"2026-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration his Department has given to the role of parking and accessibility in supporting footfall and town centre regeneration, in towns such as Coleraine and Limavady.","answerText":"My Department has fully considered the role of parking and accessibility in supporting footfall and town centre regeneration in towns such as Coleraine and Limavady. This is reflected in the Masterplan Reviews completed for both towns in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.\n\nThe 2020 Coleraine Masterplan Review identified parking and accessibility as essential to increasing footfall, and these factors are embedded within the Outline Business Case for the Coleraine Leisure and Wellbeing Centre, a key Causeway Growth Deal project led by my Department. Similarly, the 2024 Limavady Masterplan Review highlighted parking pressures and the importance of improving accessibility.\n\nMy Department continues to work closely with the Council to prioritise regeneration projects, ensuring that parking and accessibility considerations are integral to public consultations and the development of all business cases.","answerHtml":"My Department has fully considered the role of parking and accessibility in supporting footfall and town centre regeneration in towns such as Coleraine and Limavady. This is reflected in the Masterplan Reviews completed for both towns in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
The 2020 Coleraine Masterplan Review identified parking and accessibility as essential to increasing footfall, and these factors are embedded within the Outline Business Case for the Coleraine Leisure and Wellbeing Centre, a key Causeway Growth Deal project led by my Department. Similarly, the 2024 Limavady Masterplan Review highlighted parking pressures and the importance of improving accessibility.
My Department continues to work closely with the Council to prioritise regeneration projects, ensuring that parking and accessibility considerations are integral to public consultations and the development of all business cases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041451%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473578"}},{"id":"473577","reference":"AQW 41450/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-26","answerBy":"2026-03-13","answered":"2026-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has been made of the impact of anti-social behaviour on footfall, business confidence and the evening economy, in town centres, such as Coleraine.","answerText":"Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.\n\nTo create their 2026-27 Action Plan, Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP carried out a strategic assessment to confirm local priorities. The result of this assessment was Theme One being identified as ASB, with the top four behaviours identified as: Alcohol / Drugs Abuse; Youth causing annoyance; Litter; and Vehicle nuisance.\n\nSpecific projects overseen by Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP to tackle issues of ASB include: a graffiti removal scheme; talks at schools; the local Support Hub; events held by PCSP involving Crime Prevention Officers; Neighbourhood Watch Schemes (with specific support groups focusing on ASB); Safer Driving Projects aimed at reducing anti-social driving and; a Grant Scheme providing constituted groups up to £999 to develop localised solutions to ASB.\n\nWhilst my Department has not made a specific assessment on the impact of ASB on footfall, business confidence and the evening economy my officials are currently considering ASB legislation with a view to bringing forward amendments to the current framework in the next assembly mandate.\n\nYou may wish to contact the Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP directly to discuss any issues of particular concern in the context of your question: pcsp@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk","answerHtml":"Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, play a key role in the Department’s operational response to community safety and ASB across all communities in Northern Ireland. PCSPs liaise with local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.
To create their 2026-27 Action Plan, Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP carried out a strategic assessment to confirm local priorities. The result of this assessment was Theme One being identified as ASB, with the top four behaviours identified as: Alcohol / Drugs Abuse; Youth causing annoyance; Litter; and Vehicle nuisance.
Specific projects overseen by Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP to tackle issues of ASB include: a graffiti removal scheme; talks at schools; the local Support Hub; events held by PCSP involving Crime Prevention Officers; Neighbourhood Watch Schemes (with specific support groups focusing on ASB); Safer Driving Projects aimed at reducing anti-social driving and; a Grant Scheme providing constituted groups up to £999 to develop localised solutions to ASB.
Whilst my Department has not made a specific assessment on the impact of ASB on footfall, business confidence and the evening economy my officials are currently considering ASB legislation with a view to bringing forward amendments to the current framework in the next assembly mandate.
You may wish to contact the Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP directly to discuss any issues of particular concern in the context of your question: pcsp@causewaycoastandglens.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041450%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473577"}},{"id":"473576","reference":"AQW 41449/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-26","answerBy":"2026-03-13","answered":"2026-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of the role of the evening economy, including food and hospitality provision, in supporting footfall and business viability in town centres, in East Londonderry.","answerText":"My Department, alongside Tourism NI and the three Belfast Business Improvement Districts, has commissioned Ipsos to conduct research to better understand the issues affecting the night-time economy.\n\nWhile the final report is anticipated soon, the interim findings suggested that in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area the night-time economy made a significant contribution in terms of Gross Value Added and supporting jobs.\n\nThe interim findings also found that Tourism's potential within the night-time economy is significant but underutilised. Promoting unique night-time experiences and addressing access and safety issues could attract more visitors who stay longer and spend more.\n\nA safe, thriving and diverse night-time economy will contribute to footfall and business viability across our urban areas. I remain committed to engaging with stakeholders to achieve this ambition.","answerHtml":"My Department, alongside Tourism NI and the three Belfast Business Improvement Districts, has commissioned Ipsos to conduct research to better understand the issues affecting the night-time economy.
While the final report is anticipated soon, the interim findings suggested that in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area the night-time economy made a significant contribution in terms of Gross Value Added and supporting jobs.
The interim findings also found that Tourism's potential within the night-time economy is significant but underutilised. Promoting unique night-time experiences and addressing access and safety issues could attract more visitors who stay longer and spend more.
A safe, thriving and diverse night-time economy will contribute to footfall and business viability across our urban areas. I remain committed to engaging with stakeholders to achieve this ambition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041449%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473576"}},{"id":"473575","reference":"AQW 41448/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-26","answerBy":"2026-03-13","answered":"2026-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps her Department is taking to support high street businesses in the East Londonderry constituency, including measures to improve footfall and long-term sustainability in town centres, such as Coleraine and Limavady.","answerText":"While responsibility for town centre regeneration rests with the Department for Communities and development of local economic policies primarily falls to the relevant district council, my Department and its agencies will work with local partners to ensure that economic development meets local needs and priorities.\n\nIn March 2022 the Executive Office published its Report with recommendations on the High Street Task Force. My Department is responsible for recommendation 8 of the Report: ‘Fair Work on Our High Streets’. This recommendation aligns with my economic priority on Good Jobs.\n\nWork is progressing to implement this recommendation and includes the development of a new Employment Rights Bill, promoting wider adoption of the Real Living Wage, and collaborating with the Labour Relations Agency to develop a Good Employment Charter. These measures will underpin improved job quality and workplace standards across local economies, including town centres such as Coleraine and Limavady.\n\nMy officials are also working with all eleven Councils to develop Local Economic Partnerships to address economic need on a sub-regional scale. Causeway Coast & Glens Local Economic Partnership’s Action Plan was approved in December with funding of £4.51m to support its delivery through to March 2028.","answerHtml":"While responsibility for town centre regeneration rests with the Department for Communities and development of local economic policies primarily falls to the relevant district council, my Department and its agencies will work with local partners to ensure that economic development meets local needs and priorities.
In March 2022 the Executive Office published its Report with recommendations on the High Street Task Force. My Department is responsible for recommendation 8 of the Report: ‘Fair Work on Our High Streets’. This recommendation aligns with my economic priority on Good Jobs.
Work is progressing to implement this recommendation and includes the development of a new Employment Rights Bill, promoting wider adoption of the Real Living Wage, and collaborating with the Labour Relations Agency to develop a Good Employment Charter. These measures will underpin improved job quality and workplace standards across local economies, including town centres such as Coleraine and Limavady.
My officials are also working with all eleven Councils to develop Local Economic Partnerships to address economic need on a sub-regional scale. Causeway Coast & Glens Local Economic Partnership’s Action Plan was approved in December with funding of £4.51m to support its delivery through to March 2028.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041448%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473575"}},{"id":"473254","reference":"AQW 41356/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-25","answerBy":"2026-03-12","answered":"2026-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any guidance his Department provides to schools on trauma-informed approaches when responding to bullying behaviour.","answerText":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT) provides schools with advice, guidance and training to address concerns related to alleged bullying type behaviour in their setting within a trauma informed framework.\n\nTrauma Informed Practice (TIP) is central to ABSIT’s training programme and their advisory model, contributing to effective safeguarding through advocating preventative measures and early intervention. ABSIT support is developed on six foundational pillars which promote and inform effective prevention and response to bullying type behaviour. These are: Trauma Informed Practice, Safe Supportive Learning Environment, Nurture Principles, Steps to Wellbeing, Restorative Practice and Positive Approaches to Social Behavioural and Emotional Wellbeing.\n\nABSIT provides three key forms of training which embed traumainformed approaches across the school system:\n\nFoundational Online Training – equipping all staff with an understanding of safeguarding duties, legislative requirements and traumainformed best practice. Staff report feeling more confident and consistent in responding to concerns, supporting early intervention.\n\nEightModule Leadership Training – enabling principals, senior leaders and governors to build wholeschool cultures that prioritise safety, wellbeing and traumainformed approaches. Participants are encouraged to complete the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) traumainformed toolkit to strengthen wholeschool implementation.\n\nTargeted TraumaInformed Advice – ABSIT provides structured advice to schools in complex bullying cases, ensuring responses are aligned with safeguarding legislation and departmental guidance. This helps schools assess concerns, identify gaps and ensure that support plans reflect traumainformed practice.\n\nFurthermore, ABSIT officers are all SBNI TIP trainers and currently are participating in the SBNI Leading with a Trauma-Informed Lens leadership training programme.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority’s (EA) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT) provides schools with advice, guidance and training to address concerns related to alleged bullying type behaviour in their setting within a trauma informed framework.
Trauma Informed Practice (TIP) is central to ABSIT’s training programme and their advisory model, contributing to effective safeguarding through advocating preventative measures and early intervention. ABSIT support is developed on six foundational pillars which promote and inform effective prevention and response to bullying type behaviour. These are: Trauma Informed Practice, Safe Supportive Learning Environment, Nurture Principles, Steps to Wellbeing, Restorative Practice and Positive Approaches to Social Behavioural and Emotional Wellbeing.
ABSIT provides three key forms of training which embed traumainformed approaches across the school system:
Foundational Online Training – equipping all staff with an understanding of safeguarding duties, legislative requirements and traumainformed best practice. Staff report feeling more confident and consistent in responding to concerns, supporting early intervention.
EightModule Leadership Training – enabling principals, senior leaders and governors to build wholeschool cultures that prioritise safety, wellbeing and traumainformed approaches. Participants are encouraged to complete the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) traumainformed toolkit to strengthen wholeschool implementation.
Targeted TraumaInformed Advice – ABSIT provides structured advice to schools in complex bullying cases, ensuring responses are aligned with safeguarding legislation and departmental guidance. This helps schools assess concerns, identify gaps and ensure that support plans reflect traumainformed practice.
Furthermore, ABSIT officers are all SBNI TIP trainers and currently are participating in the SBNI Leading with a Trauma-Informed Lens leadership training programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041356%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473254","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473254"}},{"id":"473253","reference":"AQW 41355/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-25","answerBy":"2026-03-12","answered":"2026-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any guidance available to schools on early intervention, in cases of bullying.","answerText":"The Education Authority’s (EA’s) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT) provides clear guidance and support to schools on early intervention in cases of bullying.\n\nABSIT places a strong emphasis on early identification and early intervention. Its introductory training (Tier 1) for all staff includes recognising signs and symptoms of bullying type behaviour and the importance of having structures in place for early reporting. Leadership training (Tier 2) also reinforces early intervention across modules on ‘Effective Prevention and Response’. Schools are further supported through ABSIT’s intervention framework, which ranges from early responses at Level 1 through to Level 4 for more complex or sustained situations, complemented by resources including ‘Effective Responses to Bullying Behaviour’.\n\nA wide range of practical resources is provided to schools to support early intervention, including policy templates and checklists, targeted referral advice, Level 1–4 intervention tables, training materials, rightsbased information leaflets, parental support via the Safer Schools App, template tools such as the Bullying Concern Assessment Form (BCAF), Social, Behavioural, Emotional and Wellbeing (SBEW) plans and reallife case studies. These are designed to strengthen early action, consistency and best practice.\n\nABSIT supports schools through complex referrals, offering advisory input that may involve multiagency engagement. ABSIT also provides rightsbased guidance for parents, carers and pupils, and works with external partner agencies to ensure that families are signposted to appropriate support in line with statutory and multiagency frameworks. In all of this work, ABSIT reinforces the importance of early intervention when dealing with cases of bullying-type behaviour.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority’s (EA’s) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT) provides clear guidance and support to schools on early intervention in cases of bullying.
ABSIT places a strong emphasis on early identification and early intervention. Its introductory training (Tier 1) for all staff includes recognising signs and symptoms of bullying type behaviour and the importance of having structures in place for early reporting. Leadership training (Tier 2) also reinforces early intervention across modules on ‘Effective Prevention and Response’. Schools are further supported through ABSIT’s intervention framework, which ranges from early responses at Level 1 through to Level 4 for more complex or sustained situations, complemented by resources including ‘Effective Responses to Bullying Behaviour’.
A wide range of practical resources is provided to schools to support early intervention, including policy templates and checklists, targeted referral advice, Level 1–4 intervention tables, training materials, rightsbased information leaflets, parental support via the Safer Schools App, template tools such as the Bullying Concern Assessment Form (BCAF), Social, Behavioural, Emotional and Wellbeing (SBEW) plans and reallife case studies. These are designed to strengthen early action, consistency and best practice.
ABSIT supports schools through complex referrals, offering advisory input that may involve multiagency engagement. ABSIT also provides rightsbased guidance for parents, carers and pupils, and works with external partner agencies to ensure that families are signposted to appropriate support in line with statutory and multiagency frameworks. In all of this work, ABSIT reinforces the importance of early intervention when dealing with cases of bullying-type behaviour.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041355%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473253","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473253"}},{"id":"473252","reference":"AQW 41354/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-25","answerBy":"2026-03-12","answered":"2026-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how safeguarding considerations are reflected in guidance to schools on responding to bullying, particularly where bullying behaviour may be linked to wider emotional distress, or vulnerability.","answerText":"Safeguarding considerations are embedded throughout the guidance provided to schools on responding to bullying through the Education Authority’s Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT).\n\nABSIT’s leadership training and resources place strong emphasis on the integration of safeguarding policy and practice, highlighting the direct link between addressing bullying type behaviour and safeguarding legislation. The training handbook makes clear that safeguarding begins with preventative education, early intervention and support to families, and that the addressingbullying policy is a key part of the wider safeguarding framework required in schools.\n\nSchools are guided to use a wide range of safeguardingrelated evidence, including survey results, incident logs, wellbeing data, safeguarding records, attendance patterns, pupil voice activities and parent and staff feedback when reviewing or developing policies. These records are identified as essential for understanding the nature and extent of bullying type behaviour and ensuring appropriate safeguarding responses.\n\nABSIT’s targeted advice reinforces the use of Bullying Concern Assessment Forms so that interventions are codeveloped with pupils and parents, prioritising safeguarding needs and enabling multiagency engagement where required. At Levels 3 and 4, where bullying behaviour may be more sustained or complex, staff are expected to consider the risk to all involved, with cases escalated to senior pastoral, safeguarding and SEN staff for coordinated support.\n\nSafeguarding is also built into ABSIT’s policy template and checklist, which emphasise the school’s duty to create a safe, inclusive, and relational environment consistent with statutory measures. Governors are required to maintain a standing safeguarding agenda item for reporting on bullying type behaviour, ensuring governance oversight of both policy and practice.","answerHtml":"Safeguarding considerations are embedded throughout the guidance provided to schools on responding to bullying through the Education Authority’s Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT).
ABSIT’s leadership training and resources place strong emphasis on the integration of safeguarding policy and practice, highlighting the direct link between addressing bullying type behaviour and safeguarding legislation. The training handbook makes clear that safeguarding begins with preventative education, early intervention and support to families, and that the addressingbullying policy is a key part of the wider safeguarding framework required in schools.
Schools are guided to use a wide range of safeguardingrelated evidence, including survey results, incident logs, wellbeing data, safeguarding records, attendance patterns, pupil voice activities and parent and staff feedback when reviewing or developing policies. These records are identified as essential for understanding the nature and extent of bullying type behaviour and ensuring appropriate safeguarding responses.
ABSIT’s targeted advice reinforces the use of Bullying Concern Assessment Forms so that interventions are codeveloped with pupils and parents, prioritising safeguarding needs and enabling multiagency engagement where required. At Levels 3 and 4, where bullying behaviour may be more sustained or complex, staff are expected to consider the risk to all involved, with cases escalated to senior pastoral, safeguarding and SEN staff for coordinated support.
Safeguarding is also built into ABSIT’s policy template and checklist, which emphasise the school’s duty to create a safe, inclusive, and relational environment consistent with statutory measures. Governors are required to maintain a standing safeguarding agenda item for reporting on bullying type behaviour, ensuring governance oversight of both policy and practice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041354%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473252","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473252"}},{"id":"473251","reference":"AQW 41353/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-25","answerBy":"2026-03-12","answered":"2026-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department monitors the application of statutory guidance issued under the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.","answerText":"My Department has a number of mechanisms in place which inform assessment of how the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (The Act) is being implemented in practice and to monitor the statutory guidance issued under the Act.\n\nSince the Act came into operation in 2021, schools are required to record all incidents of bullying, including their motivations and outcomes. It is the responsibility of the Board of Governors (BoGs) for the development, implementation, monitoring and periodic review of their schools addressing bullying policy. These duties form a key mechanism through which the Department can assess implementation across schools in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department issued statutory guidance in March 2021 to principals and BoGs, which supports the implementation of the Act and sets out how schools should fulfil their legal obligations. Schools are required to keep their addressing bullying polices and preventative measures under regular review, and to maintain transparent and detailed records of all alleged and confirmed bullying incidents, including how these were addressed. These record-keeping duties allow the Department to monitor compliance with the statutory guidance and provides an oversight of how consistently schools apply the correct procedure and requirements.\n\nRecognising that access to comprehensive data is key to informing postlegislative scrutiny of the Act and effective, evidence-based policy-making, over the last two years months the Department has taken forward a number of measures to improve the bullying-related data to which the Department has access.\n\nThese measures include the introduction of bullying-related questions in the Northern Ireland School Omnibus Survey, engaging with the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) to review how schools are implementing the Act, and receiving regular Outcome Based Accountability reports from the Education Authority’s (EA) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT). The ETI is also undertaking further visits to primary schools to review how strategies for addressing bullying are being implemented, and the Department is working with the EA with the aim of digitising the Bullying Concern Assessment Form through the Education Information Solutions (EdIS) Programme with a view to facilitating access to comprehensive anonymised regional data on schools’ bullying related data.\n\nThe emerging evidence from the available data sources demonstrates high levels of compliance with the Act and strong evidence of resulting positive impacts. The Act has clearly helped to provide greater consistency in how all schools respond to bullying incidents and allegations, helping to build on schools’ duty of care for their pupils, and strengthening the protection pupils can expect if they experience bullying type behaviour in school by ensuring all pupils are protected to the same, best practice standards.\n\nTogether, the mechanisms implemented by the Department enable the monitoring of both the implementation of the Act itself and schools’ adherence to the statutory guidance issued under it.","answerHtml":"My Department has a number of mechanisms in place which inform assessment of how the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (The Act) is being implemented in practice and to monitor the statutory guidance issued under the Act.
Since the Act came into operation in 2021, schools are required to record all incidents of bullying, including their motivations and outcomes. It is the responsibility of the Board of Governors (BoGs) for the development, implementation, monitoring and periodic review of their schools addressing bullying policy. These duties form a key mechanism through which the Department can assess implementation across schools in Northern Ireland.
The Department issued statutory guidance in March 2021 to principals and BoGs, which supports the implementation of the Act and sets out how schools should fulfil their legal obligations. Schools are required to keep their addressing bullying polices and preventative measures under regular review, and to maintain transparent and detailed records of all alleged and confirmed bullying incidents, including how these were addressed. These record-keeping duties allow the Department to monitor compliance with the statutory guidance and provides an oversight of how consistently schools apply the correct procedure and requirements.
Recognising that access to comprehensive data is key to informing postlegislative scrutiny of the Act and effective, evidence-based policy-making, over the last two years months the Department has taken forward a number of measures to improve the bullying-related data to which the Department has access.
These measures include the introduction of bullying-related questions in the Northern Ireland School Omnibus Survey, engaging with the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) to review how schools are implementing the Act, and receiving regular Outcome Based Accountability reports from the Education Authority’s (EA) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT). The ETI is also undertaking further visits to primary schools to review how strategies for addressing bullying are being implemented, and the Department is working with the EA with the aim of digitising the Bullying Concern Assessment Form through the Education Information Solutions (EdIS) Programme with a view to facilitating access to comprehensive anonymised regional data on schools’ bullying related data.
The emerging evidence from the available data sources demonstrates high levels of compliance with the Act and strong evidence of resulting positive impacts. The Act has clearly helped to provide greater consistency in how all schools respond to bullying incidents and allegations, helping to build on schools’ duty of care for their pupils, and strengthening the protection pupils can expect if they experience bullying type behaviour in school by ensuring all pupils are protected to the same, best practice standards.
Together, the mechanisms implemented by the Department enable the monitoring of both the implementation of the Act itself and schools’ adherence to the statutory guidance issued under it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041353%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473251","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473251"}},{"id":"473250","reference":"AQW 41352/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-25","answerBy":"2026-03-12","answered":"2026-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any mechanisms in place to review how the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 is being implemented in practice across schools.","answerText":"My Department has a number of mechanisms in place which inform assessment of how the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (The Act) is being implemented in practice and to monitor the statutory guidance issued under the Act.\n\nSince the Act came into operation in 2021, schools are required to record all incidents of bullying, including their motivations and outcomes. It is the responsibility of the Board of Governors (BoGs) for the development, implementation, monitoring and periodic review of their schools addressing bullying policy. These duties form a key mechanism through which the Department can assess implementation across schools in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department issued statutory guidance in March 2021 to principals and BoGs, which supports the implementation of the Act and sets out how schools should fulfil their legal obligations. Schools are required to keep their addressing bullying polices and preventative measures under regular review, and to maintain transparent and detailed records of all alleged and confirmed bullying incidents, including how these were addressed. These record-keeping duties allow the Department to monitor compliance with the statutory guidance and provides an oversight of how consistently schools apply the correct procedure and requirements.\n\nRecognising that access to comprehensive data is key to informing postlegislative scrutiny of the Act and effective, evidence-based policy-making, over the last two years months the Department has taken forward a number of measures to improve the bullying-related data to which the Department has access.\n\nThese measures include the introduction of bullying-related questions in the Northern Ireland School Omnibus Survey, engaging with the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) to review how schools are implementing the Act, and receiving regular Outcome Based Accountability reports from the Education Authority’s (EA) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT). The ETI is also undertaking further visits to primary schools to review how strategies for addressing bullying are being implemented, and the Department is working with the EA with the aim of digitising the Bullying Concern Assessment Form through the Education Information Solutions (EdIS) Programme with a view to facilitating access to comprehensive anonymised regional data on schools’ bullying related data.\n\nThe emerging evidence from the available data sources demonstrates high levels of compliance with the Act and strong evidence of resulting positive impacts. The Act has clearly helped to provide greater consistency in how all schools respond to bullying incidents and allegations, helping to build on schools’ duty of care for their pupils, and strengthening the protection pupils can expect if they experience bullying type behaviour in school by ensuring all pupils are protected to the same, best practice standards.\n\nTogether, the mechanisms implemented by the Department enable the monitoring of both the implementation of the Act itself and schools’ adherence to the statutory guidance issued under it.","answerHtml":"My Department has a number of mechanisms in place which inform assessment of how the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (The Act) is being implemented in practice and to monitor the statutory guidance issued under the Act.
Since the Act came into operation in 2021, schools are required to record all incidents of bullying, including their motivations and outcomes. It is the responsibility of the Board of Governors (BoGs) for the development, implementation, monitoring and periodic review of their schools addressing bullying policy. These duties form a key mechanism through which the Department can assess implementation across schools in Northern Ireland.
The Department issued statutory guidance in March 2021 to principals and BoGs, which supports the implementation of the Act and sets out how schools should fulfil their legal obligations. Schools are required to keep their addressing bullying polices and preventative measures under regular review, and to maintain transparent and detailed records of all alleged and confirmed bullying incidents, including how these were addressed. These record-keeping duties allow the Department to monitor compliance with the statutory guidance and provides an oversight of how consistently schools apply the correct procedure and requirements.
Recognising that access to comprehensive data is key to informing postlegislative scrutiny of the Act and effective, evidence-based policy-making, over the last two years months the Department has taken forward a number of measures to improve the bullying-related data to which the Department has access.
These measures include the introduction of bullying-related questions in the Northern Ireland School Omnibus Survey, engaging with the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) to review how schools are implementing the Act, and receiving regular Outcome Based Accountability reports from the Education Authority’s (EA) Addressing Bullying in Schools Implementation Team (ABSIT). The ETI is also undertaking further visits to primary schools to review how strategies for addressing bullying are being implemented, and the Department is working with the EA with the aim of digitising the Bullying Concern Assessment Form through the Education Information Solutions (EdIS) Programme with a view to facilitating access to comprehensive anonymised regional data on schools’ bullying related data.
The emerging evidence from the available data sources demonstrates high levels of compliance with the Act and strong evidence of resulting positive impacts. The Act has clearly helped to provide greater consistency in how all schools respond to bullying incidents and allegations, helping to build on schools’ duty of care for their pupils, and strengthening the protection pupils can expect if they experience bullying type behaviour in school by ensuring all pupils are protected to the same, best practice standards.
Together, the mechanisms implemented by the Department enable the monitoring of both the implementation of the Act itself and schools’ adherence to the statutory guidance issued under it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041352%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=473250","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=473250"}},{"id":"472978","reference":"AQW 41263/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-24","answerBy":"2026-03-11","answered":"2026-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department takes to support community optometrists, given they are relied upon to manage patients with cataracts for extended periods before referral.","answerText":"My Department is committed to making it easier for patients to access the care they need. Community optometry shows how services delivered closer to home can detect problems early, help to manage waiting lists, and ease pressure on hospitals, all while improving outcomes for patients.\n\nIt would not be an expectation that community optometrists are relied upon to manage patients with cataracts for extended periods before referral. When referral is clinically-indicated, and in the patient’s best interest, referral for specialist advice and treatment would be anticipated.\n\nThrough Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) communications and protocols, “Guidance Notes for Community Optometrists” have been developed, shared, and hosted. These guidance and support protocols lay out best practice around level of vision, quality of life impacts and indications for referral, including any comorbidities. Driving status, caring and independent living needs and a discussion on the nature of surgery also helps to make an informed decision on referral.\n\nCommunity optometrists are further supported by development of a cataract-specific electronic referral template into the encompass electronic patient system, and associated clinical decision-making aids hosted within that system.\n\nAs I take forward the Reset agenda, our priority is to build services that are sustainable, patient-centred and responsive to need. That means moving more care into the community where it can be delivered quickly and effectively. The main focus will be rebalancing the health and social care system so that care is delivered closer to home, hospitals are used for those who need them most, and services are planned for long-term sustainability. In Northern Ireland we have over 700 optometrists who are highly skilled, local, and ready to help with 95% of the population living less than 5 miles from a practice.\n\nThe Reset agenda also emphasises the importance of prevention and early intervention. With Northern Ireland’s ageing and rural population increasing demand for eyecare, community optometry has a crucial role to play. By putting in place strategies to improve access and uptake of HSC-funded eye examinations, though Universal Credit legislative reform, awareness-raising campaigns and initiatives such as #EyeCareWeCare, earlier case-finding and informed decision-making can help to manage both patient expectations and system demand.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to making it easier for patients to access the care they need. Community optometry shows how services delivered closer to home can detect problems early, help to manage waiting lists, and ease pressure on hospitals, all while improving outcomes for patients.
It would not be an expectation that community optometrists are relied upon to manage patients with cataracts for extended periods before referral. When referral is clinically-indicated, and in the patient’s best interest, referral for specialist advice and treatment would be anticipated.
Through Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) communications and protocols, “Guidance Notes for Community Optometrists” have been developed, shared, and hosted. These guidance and support protocols lay out best practice around level of vision, quality of life impacts and indications for referral, including any comorbidities. Driving status, caring and independent living needs and a discussion on the nature of surgery also helps to make an informed decision on referral.
Community optometrists are further supported by development of a cataract-specific electronic referral template into the encompass electronic patient system, and associated clinical decision-making aids hosted within that system.
As I take forward the Reset agenda, our priority is to build services that are sustainable, patient-centred and responsive to need. That means moving more care into the community where it can be delivered quickly and effectively. The main focus will be rebalancing the health and social care system so that care is delivered closer to home, hospitals are used for those who need them most, and services are planned for long-term sustainability. In Northern Ireland we have over 700 optometrists who are highly skilled, local, and ready to help with 95% of the population living less than 5 miles from a practice.
The Reset agenda also emphasises the importance of prevention and early intervention. With Northern Ireland’s ageing and rural population increasing demand for eyecare, community optometry has a crucial role to play. By putting in place strategies to improve access and uptake of HSC-funded eye examinations, though Universal Credit legislative reform, awareness-raising campaigns and initiatives such as #EyeCareWeCare, earlier case-finding and informed decision-making can help to manage both patient expectations and system demand.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041263%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472978"}},{"id":"472977","reference":"AQW 41262/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-24","answerBy":"2026-03-11","answered":"2026-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made of the impact that delayed cataract assessment can have on patient confidence, mobility and quality of life, particularly for older people.","answerText":"My Department recognises that delays in cataract assessment and treatment can have a significant impact on all patients, but particularly older people.\n\nCataract surgery is one of the highest volume surgeries carried out across the UK, including in Northern Ireland. It is almost always daycase, not usually requiring general anaesthesia, and the intervention enjoys excellent Quality of Life outcomes. Although sight-limiting, it is reversible, and not generally a time-critical procedure.\n\nI acknowledge that delays longer than clinically-indicated to accessing care, including for cataract assessment, are unacceptable and can have negative implications for patient confidence, mobility and quality of life. This can be particularly true for older people and those living in rural communities.\n\nIn the event that vision deteriorates whilst on a waiting list, support for patients suffering with impaired vision is available from voluntary sector organisations such as the RNIB, where a range of resources to help patients and service users can be accessed.\n\n“Waiting Well” is an important element of a patient’s care journey, and strategies are in place to support patients on outpatient waiting lists.\n\nDelays to accessing appropriate care are due to demand, much of it demographically-driven, outstripping capacity to deliver against need. In recognition of the sustained demand-capacity gap which impacts on treatments, including those for cataract, my officials are currently working with providers around business cases to build capacity within clinical teams with additional recruitment. I acknowledge that capacity-building is a key strategic pillar to address waiting lists sustainably, and prioritisation of ECF new and re-purposed funding, including investments to support in-reach Independent Sector activity, is ongoing. This additional capacity will have a positive impact on waiting times reducing any potential negative impact on patients confidence, mobility and quality of life.\n\nMy Department will continue to monitor waiting times for cataract assessment and treatment and work with providers to improve timely access. Due to the impact these delays have on patients, addressing these care pathways remains an important step in efforts to reduce avoidable sight loss and support healthy aging.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises that delays in cataract assessment and treatment can have a significant impact on all patients, but particularly older people.
Cataract surgery is one of the highest volume surgeries carried out across the UK, including in Northern Ireland. It is almost always daycase, not usually requiring general anaesthesia, and the intervention enjoys excellent Quality of Life outcomes. Although sight-limiting, it is reversible, and not generally a time-critical procedure.
I acknowledge that delays longer than clinically-indicated to accessing care, including for cataract assessment, are unacceptable and can have negative implications for patient confidence, mobility and quality of life. This can be particularly true for older people and those living in rural communities.
In the event that vision deteriorates whilst on a waiting list, support for patients suffering with impaired vision is available from voluntary sector organisations such as the RNIB, where a range of resources to help patients and service users can be accessed.
“Waiting Well” is an important element of a patient’s care journey, and strategies are in place to support patients on outpatient waiting lists.
Delays to accessing appropriate care are due to demand, much of it demographically-driven, outstripping capacity to deliver against need. In recognition of the sustained demand-capacity gap which impacts on treatments, including those for cataract, my officials are currently working with providers around business cases to build capacity within clinical teams with additional recruitment. I acknowledge that capacity-building is a key strategic pillar to address waiting lists sustainably, and prioritisation of ECF new and re-purposed funding, including investments to support in-reach Independent Sector activity, is ongoing. This additional capacity will have a positive impact on waiting times reducing any potential negative impact on patients confidence, mobility and quality of life.
My Department will continue to monitor waiting times for cataract assessment and treatment and work with providers to improve timely access. Due to the impact these delays have on patients, addressing these care pathways remains an important step in efforts to reduce avoidable sight loss and support healthy aging.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041262%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472977"}},{"id":"472976","reference":"AQW 41261/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-24","answerBy":"2026-03-11","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration his Department gives to the impact of delayed cataract care on people living in rural areas, where loss of vision may result in loss of the ability to drive and access essential services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041261%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472976"}},{"id":"472975","reference":"AQW 41260/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-24","answerBy":"2026-03-11","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department takes to ensure that people with cataracts are able to access NHS assessment before deterioration in sight begins to affect day-to-day safety and independence, including the ability to drive, work or care for others.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041260%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472975"}},{"id":"472668","reference":"AQW 41181/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-23","answerBy":"2026-03-10","answered":"2026-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any steps her Department will take to strengthen protection for victims, assessed as being at high risk of harm, while Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders are not yet in force.","answerText":"I am acutely conscious of the heightened vulnerability of victims assessed as being at high risk of harm. Ensuring that strong and effective safeguards are in place for those individuals remains a central priority for me as Minister of Justice.\n\nWhile Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPNs and DAPOs) are not yet operational, victims assessed as high risk continue to be protected through a well-established framework of civil and criminal measures. Existing provisions, including Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders, Restraining Orders and the use of bail conditions, provide significant legal safeguards. Breach of these orders constitutes a criminal offence.\n\nThe domestic abuse offence introduced under the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 has further strengthened the justice response to coercive and controlling behaviour. The Act also provides for specific statutory aggravators, including where children are involved, ensuring that the courts can reflect the full seriousness and impact of offending behaviour.\n\nWhere a victim is assessed as being at high risk of serious harm, their case will be referred into a structured multi-agency risk management process. Information is shared in a controlled and lawful manner to build a comprehensive picture of risk, and a coordinated safety plan is developed. This can include enhanced police monitoring, safety planning, emergency accommodation, safeguarding arrangements for children, and proactive engagement with the perpetrator where appropriate. Actions are tracked and reviewed to ensure that risk is being actively managed and reduced wherever possible. Additionally, my Department has been leading multi-agency work, both to strengthen and replace existing multi agency risk assessment conference arrangements. It is planned to implement a number of practical changes in the coming months and incrementally throughout 2026/27.\n\nAnyone who is a victim of domestic abuse, or who has concerns about the safety of someone else, should report the matter to the PSNI, who can take immediate action to help protect those at risk.\n\nOnce introduced, DAPNs and DAPOs will provide an additional layer of protection, including enabling applications to be brought by the police, as currently proposed under plans for the two-year pilot, thereby helping to reduce the burden on victims. Until that time, victims assessed as being at high risk of harm continue to benefit from the range of protections already available, supported by coordinated multi-agency action and a strengthened legislative framework.","answerHtml":"I am acutely conscious of the heightened vulnerability of victims assessed as being at high risk of harm. Ensuring that strong and effective safeguards are in place for those individuals remains a central priority for me as Minister of Justice.
While Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPNs and DAPOs) are not yet operational, victims assessed as high risk continue to be protected through a well-established framework of civil and criminal measures. Existing provisions, including Non-Molestation Orders, Occupation Orders, Restraining Orders and the use of bail conditions, provide significant legal safeguards. Breach of these orders constitutes a criminal offence.
The domestic abuse offence introduced under the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 has further strengthened the justice response to coercive and controlling behaviour. The Act also provides for specific statutory aggravators, including where children are involved, ensuring that the courts can reflect the full seriousness and impact of offending behaviour.
Where a victim is assessed as being at high risk of serious harm, their case will be referred into a structured multi-agency risk management process. Information is shared in a controlled and lawful manner to build a comprehensive picture of risk, and a coordinated safety plan is developed. This can include enhanced police monitoring, safety planning, emergency accommodation, safeguarding arrangements for children, and proactive engagement with the perpetrator where appropriate. Actions are tracked and reviewed to ensure that risk is being actively managed and reduced wherever possible. Additionally, my Department has been leading multi-agency work, both to strengthen and replace existing multi agency risk assessment conference arrangements. It is planned to implement a number of practical changes in the coming months and incrementally throughout 2026/27.
Anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse, or who has concerns about the safety of someone else, should report the matter to the PSNI, who can take immediate action to help protect those at risk.
Once introduced, DAPNs and DAPOs will provide an additional layer of protection, including enabling applications to be brought by the police, as currently proposed under plans for the two-year pilot, thereby helping to reduce the burden on victims. Until that time, victims assessed as being at high risk of harm continue to benefit from the range of protections already available, supported by coordinated multi-agency action and a strengthened legislative framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041181%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472668"}},{"id":"472667","reference":"AQW 41180/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-23","answerBy":"2026-03-10","answered":"2026-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has made of whether delays or barriers in accessing non-molestation orders, discourage victims from seeking legal protection.","answerText":"No formal assessment has been made of whether victims have been discouraged from seeking legal protection if unable to access a non-molestation order in a timely way.\n\nHowever, ensuring all victims of domestic abuse are supported to access effective protection through the courts is essential. To that end, my Department works closely with support organisations through the relevant frameworks and partnerships to ensure that victims can access advice and information about court procedures and the protections available.\n\nLegal aid is also available to anyone, regardless of means, who needs to apply for the protection of a non-molestation order. While individuals may need to make a modest contribution towards the cost of their legal representation, this will generally be considerably less than they might pay privately, and is payable over time, on terms designed to be affordable in light of their financial circumstances.\n\nFurthermore, while the Department of Finance has policy responsibility for the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (NI) Order 1998, the legislation governing non molestation orders, I brought forward provision, in the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, to enhance the protections available to victims of domestic abuse giving evidence in family cases, including non-molestation order proceedings. This included provision for the use of special measures, enabling evidence to be given from behind a screen, or from outside the courtroom.","answerHtml":"No formal assessment has been made of whether victims have been discouraged from seeking legal protection if unable to access a non-molestation order in a timely way.
However, ensuring all victims of domestic abuse are supported to access effective protection through the courts is essential. To that end, my Department works closely with support organisations through the relevant frameworks and partnerships to ensure that victims can access advice and information about court procedures and the protections available.
Legal aid is also available to anyone, regardless of means, who needs to apply for the protection of a non-molestation order. While individuals may need to make a modest contribution towards the cost of their legal representation, this will generally be considerably less than they might pay privately, and is payable over time, on terms designed to be affordable in light of their financial circumstances.
Furthermore, while the Department of Finance has policy responsibility for the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (NI) Order 1998, the legislation governing non molestation orders, I brought forward provision, in the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, to enhance the protections available to victims of domestic abuse giving evidence in family cases, including non-molestation order proceedings. This included provision for the use of special measures, enabling evidence to be given from behind a screen, or from outside the courtroom.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041180%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472667"}},{"id":"472666","reference":"AQW 41179/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-23","answerBy":"2026-03-10","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for his assessment of whether the current legal aid framework for non-molestation orders is sufficiently resilient to protect victims during periods of widespread withdrawal of legal services.","answerText":"Legal aid is available to anyone seeking the protection of a non-molestation order, though some applicants will need to make a modest contribution towards the costs of their representation. This is intended to ensure that no-one is denied access to the protection that they need as a result of financial considerations.\n\nThe representation provided through the legal aid system is, of course, delivered by independent legal professionals, and the system is critically dependent on the availability of such professionals willing to provide these services. Until now, non-molestation order proceedings have not been affected by any withdrawal of services. Given the acute and serious nature of the danger that non-molestation orders protect against, I would not expect them to be affected by any future withdrawal.\n\nI am conscious of the serious impact of the current action of the Criminal Bar Association, in particular of its impact on vulnerable victims and witnesses involved in criminal proceedings. In addition to the work currently under way to resolve this issue, I have tasked Departmental officials with developing a range of options to protect users of the justice system from similar issues should they arise in future.","answerHtml":"Legal aid is available to anyone seeking the protection of a non-molestation order, though some applicants will need to make a modest contribution towards the costs of their representation. This is intended to ensure that no-one is denied access to the protection that they need as a result of financial considerations.
The representation provided through the legal aid system is, of course, delivered by independent legal professionals, and the system is critically dependent on the availability of such professionals willing to provide these services. Until now, non-molestation order proceedings have not been affected by any withdrawal of services. Given the acute and serious nature of the danger that non-molestation orders protect against, I would not expect them to be affected by any future withdrawal.
I am conscious of the serious impact of the current action of the Criminal Bar Association, in particular of its impact on vulnerable victims and witnesses involved in criminal proceedings. In addition to the work currently under way to resolve this issue, I have tasked Departmental officials with developing a range of options to protect users of the justice system from similar issues should they arise in future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041179%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472666","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472666"}},{"id":"472665","reference":"AQW 41178/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-23","answerBy":"2026-03-10","answered":"2026-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the timescale she expects for the introduction of (i) Domestic Abuse Protection Notices; and (ii) Domestic Abuse Protection Orders, in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) potentially represent an important next step in strengthening protections for victims of domestic abuse and enhancing the justice system’s ability to intervene at an earlier stage.\n\nOfficials are continuing to develop the detailed policy and operational model in close partnership with the PSNI. This work has been informed by learning from pilot activity in England and Wales, while ensuring that any approach adopted reflects the particular legal and operational context in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department is working with criminal justice partners to develop a pilot to test the use of DAPNs and police-led DAPOs in one police district in Northern Ireland. This approach will help to inform the development and roll-out of DAPNs and DAPOs across Northern Ireland. Through roundtable engagement with voluntary and community sector organisations, it was clearly articulated that a key advantage of DAPNs and DAPOs is that they remove the onus from victims to make protective applications themselves and that is why the pilot will focus on police-led DAPOs. This approach is intended to reduce pressure on victims at a point of crisis and ensure that protective action can be taken swiftly where necessary.\n\nSubject to funding being made available, my Department is working towards the commencement of a two-year pilot during the 2026–27 financial year. The two-year pilot period will allow for structured monitoring and evaluation.","answerHtml":"Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPOs) potentially represent an important next step in strengthening protections for victims of domestic abuse and enhancing the justice system’s ability to intervene at an earlier stage.
Officials are continuing to develop the detailed policy and operational model in close partnership with the PSNI. This work has been informed by learning from pilot activity in England and Wales, while ensuring that any approach adopted reflects the particular legal and operational context in Northern Ireland.
My Department is working with criminal justice partners to develop a pilot to test the use of DAPNs and police-led DAPOs in one police district in Northern Ireland. This approach will help to inform the development and roll-out of DAPNs and DAPOs across Northern Ireland. Through roundtable engagement with voluntary and community sector organisations, it was clearly articulated that a key advantage of DAPNs and DAPOs is that they remove the onus from victims to make protective applications themselves and that is why the pilot will focus on police-led DAPOs. This approach is intended to reduce pressure on victims at a point of crisis and ensure that protective action can be taken swiftly where necessary.
Subject to funding being made available, my Department is working towards the commencement of a two-year pilot during the 2026–27 financial year. The two-year pilot period will allow for structured monitoring and evaluation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041178%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472665","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472665"}},{"id":"472437","reference":"AQW 41084/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-20","answerBy":"2026-03-09","answered":"2026-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any guidance his Department provides to housing bodies regarding changes in housing suitability as tenants age.","answerText":"The Department’s Housing Association Guide contains various guidance applicable to the design of housing for older people. The basis of any design of housing for older people should normally be a universal solution that can be easily adapted to suit a wide range of users now and over the life of the property.\n\nAll new build social homes are currently built to ‘Lifetime Homes Standards’, ensuring that homes can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of tenants. Guidance is also available for specific wheelchair housing design standards to improve the range, quality and flexibility of accommodation for wheelchair users, many of whom are older; and on CAT 1/CAT 2 design. Housing Associations are also delivering schemes to enhance older peoples living under ‘Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation’ (HAPPI) pilot schemes.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Housing Association Guide contains various guidance applicable to the design of housing for older people. The basis of any design of housing for older people should normally be a universal solution that can be easily adapted to suit a wide range of users now and over the life of the property.
All new build social homes are currently built to ‘Lifetime Homes Standards’, ensuring that homes can be easily adapted to meet the changing needs of tenants. Guidance is also available for specific wheelchair housing design standards to improve the range, quality and flexibility of accommodation for wheelchair users, many of whom are older; and on CAT 1/CAT 2 design. Housing Associations are also delivering schemes to enhance older peoples living under ‘Housing our Ageing Population Panel for Innovation’ (HAPPI) pilot schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041084%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472437"}},{"id":"472436","reference":"AQW 41083/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-20","answerBy":"2026-03-09","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any ways his Department’s housing policy is adapting to demographic change, including an ageing population.","answerText":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy which I published in 2024 recognises the changing age profile of our population and includes a long-term policy commitment to support the delivery of a more diverse range of housing options across all tenures, which meet housing needs and considers demographic change and an ageing population. Delivery will be through a series of action plans.\n\nThe Department is currently providing , £8 million in Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) funding to Co-Ownership, to operate its Co-Own for Over 55s pilot which was designed in response to our ageing population, providing an innovative housing solution for older people, supporting them to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible. With Co-Own for Over 55s, Co-Ownership can help homeowners aged 55 or over to purchase a home that is right for them as they age.\n\nIn addition, work on bringing forward a new Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan is continuing at pace. This work is considering a range of issues, including housing, that have been identified by stakeholders as impacting on the ageing population.","answerHtml":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy which I published in 2024 recognises the changing age profile of our population and includes a long-term policy commitment to support the delivery of a more diverse range of housing options across all tenures, which meet housing needs and considers demographic change and an ageing population. Delivery will be through a series of action plans.
The Department is currently providing , £8 million in Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) funding to Co-Ownership, to operate its Co-Own for Over 55s pilot which was designed in response to our ageing population, providing an innovative housing solution for older people, supporting them to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible. With Co-Own for Over 55s, Co-Ownership can help homeowners aged 55 or over to purchase a home that is right for them as they age.
In addition, work on bringing forward a new Active Ageing Strategy Action Plan is continuing at pace. This work is considering a range of issues, including housing, that have been identified by stakeholders as impacting on the ageing population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041083%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472436","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472436"}},{"id":"472435","reference":"AQW 41082/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-20","answerBy":"2026-03-09","answered":"2026-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any ways his Department’s housing policy balances supporting older people who wish to move to more suitable accommodation, with ensuring such moves are voluntary, and not driven by pressure or insecurity.","answerText":"The Supporting People programme funds a range of housing related support services for older people including sheltered/continued independent living in later life accommodation, supported accommodation and floating support. These services provide person-centred support, designed around individual needs and preferences, and are focused on empowering older people to make informed decisions about their housing. As set out in the Supporting People Policy Framework NI, provisions are made to support older people to remain in their own home or to transition to a form of supported housing accommodation which endeavours to maintain independent living.\n\nThis issue is also an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive operates a housing solutions and support model when customers approach us for housing assistance. Housing Advisors engage with customers to understand their individual needs and to help them explore their housing and support options. Typically, the main options for any customer will be to stay in their current accommodation, or to move accommodation, with support as required for both of these options.\n\nIn the case of older applicants, the ‘stay’ option might be facilitated through the provision of floating support or through delivery of an adaptation to their current dwelling. The ‘move’ option could be a move to ‘Independent Living Plus’ accommodation (Sheltered) or from a multi-story dwelling to a level access property. Housing solutions and support advice should be offered in a balanced manner. Housing Executive policy is clear that the decision is for the customer to make, having been provided with comprehensive advice on the practical and realistic options available. Our Housing Advisors will guide and support the customer to make an informed decision about their preferred option. They will not lead or unduly influence the customer to favour one viable option over another.\n\nHousing Advisors will not allow third parties to make decisions on behalf of customers unless a lack of capacity is confirmed and, in these instances, the third party must be empowered by the Office of Care and Protection to make the decision in question. Where a Housing Advisor suspects there may be undue pressure being placed on an older or vulnerable customer, they will follow our internal Safeguarding Policy.”\n\nMy Department has provided £8 million in Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) funding to Co-Ownership, our primary delivery partner for intermediate housing, to operate its Co-Own for Over 55s pilot. This novel affordable housing option was designed in response to our ageing population, providing an innovative housing solution for older people, supporting them to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible. With Co-Own for Over 55s, Co-Ownership can help homeowners aged 55 or over to purchase a home that is right for them as they age.\n\nGordon Lyons MLA\n\n16 March 2026","answerHtml":"The Supporting People programme funds a range of housing related support services for older people including sheltered/continued independent living in later life accommodation, supported accommodation and floating support. These services provide person-centred support, designed around individual needs and preferences, and are focused on empowering older people to make informed decisions about their housing. As set out in the Supporting People Policy Framework NI, provisions are made to support older people to remain in their own home or to transition to a form of supported housing accommodation which endeavours to maintain independent living.
This issue is also an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive operates a housing solutions and support model when customers approach us for housing assistance. Housing Advisors engage with customers to understand their individual needs and to help them explore their housing and support options. Typically, the main options for any customer will be to stay in their current accommodation, or to move accommodation, with support as required for both of these options.
In the case of older applicants, the ‘stay’ option might be facilitated through the provision of floating support or through delivery of an adaptation to their current dwelling. The ‘move’ option could be a move to ‘Independent Living Plus’ accommodation (Sheltered) or from a multi-story dwelling to a level access property. Housing solutions and support advice should be offered in a balanced manner. Housing Executive policy is clear that the decision is for the customer to make, having been provided with comprehensive advice on the practical and realistic options available. Our Housing Advisors will guide and support the customer to make an informed decision about their preferred option. They will not lead or unduly influence the customer to favour one viable option over another.
Housing Advisors will not allow third parties to make decisions on behalf of customers unless a lack of capacity is confirmed and, in these instances, the third party must be empowered by the Office of Care and Protection to make the decision in question. Where a Housing Advisor suspects there may be undue pressure being placed on an older or vulnerable customer, they will follow our internal Safeguarding Policy.”
My Department has provided £8 million in Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) funding to Co-Ownership, our primary delivery partner for intermediate housing, to operate its Co-Own for Over 55s pilot. This novel affordable housing option was designed in response to our ageing population, providing an innovative housing solution for older people, supporting them to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible. With Co-Own for Over 55s, Co-Ownership can help homeowners aged 55 or over to purchase a home that is right for them as they age.
Gordon Lyons MLA
16 March 2026
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041082%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472435","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472435"}},{"id":"472434","reference":"AQW 41081/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-20","answerBy":"2026-03-09","answered":"2026-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration his Department has given to ensuring that housing policy for older people applies coherently across all tenures, including the private rented sector.","answerText":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy which I published in 2024 recognises the changing age profile of our population and includes a long-term policy commitment to support the delivery of a more diverse range of housing options across all tenures, which meet housing needs and takes into account demographic change.\n\nImplementation of the Strategy, through a series of short-term action plans, will therefore consider actions to increase housing supply and provide a range of housing solutions to meet all needs, including those of older people.","answerHtml":"The Executive Housing Supply Strategy which I published in 2024 recognises the changing age profile of our population and includes a long-term policy commitment to support the delivery of a more diverse range of housing options across all tenures, which meet housing needs and takes into account demographic change.
Implementation of the Strategy, through a series of short-term action plans, will therefore consider actions to increase housing supply and provide a range of housing solutions to meet all needs, including those of older people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041081%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472434"}},{"id":"472433","reference":"AQW 41080/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-20","answerBy":"2026-03-09","answered":"2026-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any ways his Department works with the Department of Health to reflect the impact of housing conditions and suitability, on the health and wellbeing of older people.","answerText":"My Department, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE), work with the Department of Health (DoH) in relation to housing for older people in a number of ways, which reflects the impact housing conditions and suitability will have on health and wellbeing:\n\nMy Department and DoH co-chair the Interdepartmental Accessible Homes Strategic Forum, which sets strategy and policy and strengthens collaboration and decision-making on home adaptations.\n\nWe are working together on a review of NIHE-administered Private Sector Grants focusing on streamlining processes and ensuring people can access the adaptations they need as quickly as possible.\n\nMy Department provides funding for the Supporting People Programme, which is commissioned by the NIHE. The Programme delivers housing support and works closely with the Department of Health on improving access to supported living accommodation for vulnerable adults, including older people.\n\nMy Department chairs the Supporting People Joint Policy Forum —comprising DoH, the Department of Justice, and NIHE — which strengthens strategic cooperation and engagement across the statutory stakeholders involved in Supporting People services.\n\nMy Department collaborates with DoH’s Social Care Collaborative Forum to identify and undertake actions to address the needs and challenges related to supported living for individuals with diverse abilities and support requirements.\n\nMy Department is overseeing work with the NIHE, with engagement with stakeholders and other departments including DoH, on Proposal 20 of the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations, which is considering the allocation process of specialised properties including for later in life.\n\nThe assessment of needs for older people is led by Health and Social Care. Any accommodation needs, or needs for housing related support, are agreed through cross-departmental partnership working forums including the NIHE’s Supporting People Strategic Advisory Board.","answerHtml":"My Department, and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE), work with the Department of Health (DoH) in relation to housing for older people in a number of ways, which reflects the impact housing conditions and suitability will have on health and wellbeing:
My Department and DoH co-chair the Interdepartmental Accessible Homes Strategic Forum, which sets strategy and policy and strengthens collaboration and decision-making on home adaptations.
We are working together on a review of NIHE-administered Private Sector Grants focusing on streamlining processes and ensuring people can access the adaptations they need as quickly as possible.
My Department provides funding for the Supporting People Programme, which is commissioned by the NIHE. The Programme delivers housing support and works closely with the Department of Health on improving access to supported living accommodation for vulnerable adults, including older people.
My Department chairs the Supporting People Joint Policy Forum —comprising DoH, the Department of Justice, and NIHE — which strengthens strategic cooperation and engagement across the statutory stakeholders involved in Supporting People services.
My Department collaborates with DoH’s Social Care Collaborative Forum to identify and undertake actions to address the needs and challenges related to supported living for individuals with diverse abilities and support requirements.
My Department is overseeing work with the NIHE, with engagement with stakeholders and other departments including DoH, on Proposal 20 of the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations, which is considering the allocation process of specialised properties including for later in life.
The assessment of needs for older people is led by Health and Social Care. Any accommodation needs, or needs for housing related support, are agreed through cross-departmental partnership working forums including the NIHE’s Supporting People Strategic Advisory Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041080%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472433"}},{"id":"472037","reference":"AQW 40882/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-18","answerBy":"2026-03-05","answered":"2026-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made of whether current community pharmacy payment and reimbursement arrangements remain fit for purpose.","answerText":"My Department has a statutory duty to ensure fair, accurate and prompt payment for HSC commissioned pharmaceutical services, and the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff sets out the remuneration and reimbursement arrangements for medicines supplied by community pharmacies.\n\nSince April 2018, funding has increased by almost £60m (57%). This is the highest level of funding to date and is comparable with the rest of the UK.\n\nFunding for community pharmacy includes payment for dispensing services and provision of other pharmacy services to the public.\n\nThe prices of medicines fluctuate daily, and with over 45m items dispensed in 2024/25, its simply not practical to reimburse pharmacies with the exact amount they paid to purchase each item. That means, at an individual prescription level, pharmacies may sometimes receive less than they paid for the product, and at other times more than they paid.\n\nAn annual margin survey is completed to ensure that, on average, the reimbursement arrangements for community pharmacy cover the cost of purchasing medicines plus a guaranteed level of margin, or ‘retained purchase profit’, meaning that HSC dispensing should be a profitable activity overall. For 2025/26, the retained minimum margin threshold has been increased from £31.5m to £34m.\n\nThe actual annual margin achieved by community pharmacies in Northern Ireland has significantly exceeded the minimum threshold. And importantly, unlike other UK regions, any excess in margin is not recouped, meaning additional income for pharmacy contractors above the agreed financial envelope.","answerHtml":"My Department has a statutory duty to ensure fair, accurate and prompt payment for HSC commissioned pharmaceutical services, and the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff sets out the remuneration and reimbursement arrangements for medicines supplied by community pharmacies.
Since April 2018, funding has increased by almost £60m (57%). This is the highest level of funding to date and is comparable with the rest of the UK.
Funding for community pharmacy includes payment for dispensing services and provision of other pharmacy services to the public.
The prices of medicines fluctuate daily, and with over 45m items dispensed in 2024/25, its simply not practical to reimburse pharmacies with the exact amount they paid to purchase each item. That means, at an individual prescription level, pharmacies may sometimes receive less than they paid for the product, and at other times more than they paid.
An annual margin survey is completed to ensure that, on average, the reimbursement arrangements for community pharmacy cover the cost of purchasing medicines plus a guaranteed level of margin, or ‘retained purchase profit’, meaning that HSC dispensing should be a profitable activity overall. For 2025/26, the retained minimum margin threshold has been increased from £31.5m to £34m.
The actual annual margin achieved by community pharmacies in Northern Ireland has significantly exceeded the minimum threshold. And importantly, unlike other UK regions, any excess in margin is not recouped, meaning additional income for pharmacy contractors above the agreed financial envelope.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040882%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472037"}},{"id":"472036","reference":"AQW 40881/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-18","answerBy":"2026-03-05","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how the sustainability of community pharmacy dispensing services is being considered, given ongoing public messaging encouraging patients to access care through their local community pharmacy.","answerText":"My Department has a statutory duty to ensure fair, accurate and prompt payment for HSC commissioned pharmaceutical services, and the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff sets out the remuneration and reimbursement arrangements for medicines supplied by community pharmacies.\n\nMy Department publishes an annual review of access and delivery of commissioned community pharmacy services in Northern Ireland. The 2024/25 review found that Northern Ireland continues to be well provided in respect of access to community pharmacy services and that services are delivered in line with a commissioning plan which is agreed between the Department and Community Pharmacy NI, the representative and negotiating body for community pharmacy contractors.\n\nMy officials have engaged with CPNI to develop a new commissioning plan for 2025-2028. These new commissioning arrangements will progress the ambitions set out in the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2030, which outlines a vision for delivery of more clinical services that utilise the skills of pharmacy teams and offer safe, convenient and timely access to care.\n\nTo provide stability to the community pharmacy sector and ensure the continued supply of medicines to patients, my Department has invested significantly in recent years. Since April 2018, funding has increased by almost £60m (57%). This is the highest level of funding to date and is comparable with the rest of the UK.\n\nFunding for community pharmacy includes payments for dispensing services and also the provision of other pharmacy services to the public for a range of services including Pharmacy First Services such as Sore Throat, Management of Urinary Tract Infections, Emergency Hormonal Contraception and Shingles.\n\nMy Department actively and regularly collaborates with CPNI through established stakeholder fora. This engagement helps to inform the annual funding level for community pharmacy services in NI.","answerHtml":"My Department has a statutory duty to ensure fair, accurate and prompt payment for HSC commissioned pharmaceutical services, and the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff sets out the remuneration and reimbursement arrangements for medicines supplied by community pharmacies.
My Department publishes an annual review of access and delivery of commissioned community pharmacy services in Northern Ireland. The 2024/25 review found that Northern Ireland continues to be well provided in respect of access to community pharmacy services and that services are delivered in line with a commissioning plan which is agreed between the Department and Community Pharmacy NI, the representative and negotiating body for community pharmacy contractors.
My officials have engaged with CPNI to develop a new commissioning plan for 2025-2028. These new commissioning arrangements will progress the ambitions set out in the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2030, which outlines a vision for delivery of more clinical services that utilise the skills of pharmacy teams and offer safe, convenient and timely access to care.
To provide stability to the community pharmacy sector and ensure the continued supply of medicines to patients, my Department has invested significantly in recent years. Since April 2018, funding has increased by almost £60m (57%). This is the highest level of funding to date and is comparable with the rest of the UK.
Funding for community pharmacy includes payments for dispensing services and also the provision of other pharmacy services to the public for a range of services including Pharmacy First Services such as Sore Throat, Management of Urinary Tract Infections, Emergency Hormonal Contraception and Shingles.
My Department actively and regularly collaborates with CPNI through established stakeholder fora. This engagement helps to inform the annual funding level for community pharmacy services in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040881%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472036","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472036"}},{"id":"472035","reference":"AQW 40880/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-18","answerBy":"2026-03-05","answered":"2026-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration his Department has given to the financial impact on community pharmacies of dispensing medicines at a loss where reimbursement does not reflect market prices.","answerText":"My Department has a statutory duty to ensure fair, accurate and prompt payment for HSC commissioned pharmaceutical services, and the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff sets out the remuneration and reimbursement arrangements for medicines supplied by community pharmacies.\n\nThe prices of medicines fluctuate daily, and with over 45m items dispensed in 2024/25, its simply not practical to reimburse pharmacies with the exact amount they paid to purchase each item. That means, at an individual prescription level, pharmacies may sometimes receive less than they paid for the product, and at other times more than they paid.\n\nAn annual margin survey is completed to ensure that, on average, the reimbursement arrangements for community pharmacy cover the cost of purchasing medicines plus a guaranteed level of margin, or ‘retained purchase profit’, meaning that HSC dispensing should be a profitable activity overall. In recent years, actual margin achieved has exceeded the agreed minimum threshold. For 2025/26, the retained minimum margin threshold has been increased from £31.5m to £34m.\n\nIf there is significant price instability or price fluctuations in-month for medicines, then a “concessionary price” is activated to help reset the price. Furthermore, since 1 April 2024, all drugs awarded concessionary prices have been subject to Zero Discount, i.e. discount is not deducted from these products.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, unlike other parts of the UK, there is also a special advance in the system for drugs on concession. The advance is currently set at £3,000 per contractor. I have listened to the recent concerns from contractors in relation to the financial pressures arising from current price fluctuations for a number of medicines, and in order to support the network, the Department is taking steps to review the special advance payable to contractors.\n\nThe Department remains committed to working constructively with the sector to ensure that community pharmacies are supported within a fair and sustainable framework.","answerHtml":"My Department has a statutory duty to ensure fair, accurate and prompt payment for HSC commissioned pharmaceutical services, and the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff sets out the remuneration and reimbursement arrangements for medicines supplied by community pharmacies.
The prices of medicines fluctuate daily, and with over 45m items dispensed in 2024/25, its simply not practical to reimburse pharmacies with the exact amount they paid to purchase each item. That means, at an individual prescription level, pharmacies may sometimes receive less than they paid for the product, and at other times more than they paid.
An annual margin survey is completed to ensure that, on average, the reimbursement arrangements for community pharmacy cover the cost of purchasing medicines plus a guaranteed level of margin, or ‘retained purchase profit’, meaning that HSC dispensing should be a profitable activity overall. In recent years, actual margin achieved has exceeded the agreed minimum threshold. For 2025/26, the retained minimum margin threshold has been increased from £31.5m to £34m.
If there is significant price instability or price fluctuations in-month for medicines, then a “concessionary price” is activated to help reset the price. Furthermore, since 1 April 2024, all drugs awarded concessionary prices have been subject to Zero Discount, i.e. discount is not deducted from these products.
In Northern Ireland, unlike other parts of the UK, there is also a special advance in the system for drugs on concession. The advance is currently set at £3,000 per contractor. I have listened to the recent concerns from contractors in relation to the financial pressures arising from current price fluctuations for a number of medicines, and in order to support the network, the Department is taking steps to review the special advance payable to contractors.
The Department remains committed to working constructively with the sector to ensure that community pharmacies are supported within a fair and sustainable framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040880%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472035","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472035"}},{"id":"472034","reference":"AQW 40879/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-18","answerBy":"2026-03-05","answered":"2026-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has given any consideration to pension provision for community pharmacists delivering health service-commissioned services.","answerText":"Access to the HSC Pension Scheme is legislated for under The Health and Social Care Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 and is limited to health service workers who are: employed by HSC employers; are an HSC contractor/provider or those employed by them – this includes GPs and dentists.\n\nFor private employers that are too small to have their own pension scheme, they can meet this obligation through the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) Pension Scheme. NEST is a government-backed workplace pension scheme accountable to Parliament through the Department for Work and Pensions and is run on a not-for-profit basis. It is used by employers across the UK, including Northern Ireland (NI), to meet their automatic enrolment obligations. The purpose of the scheme is to ensure that all eligible workers have access to a workplace pension. Information on the scheme can be accessed at https://www.nestpensions.org.uk/schemeweb/nest.html","answerHtml":"Access to the HSC Pension Scheme is legislated for under The Health and Social Care Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 and is limited to health service workers who are: employed by HSC employers; are an HSC contractor/provider or those employed by them – this includes GPs and dentists.
For private employers that are too small to have their own pension scheme, they can meet this obligation through the National Employment Savings Trust (NEST) Pension Scheme. NEST is a government-backed workplace pension scheme accountable to Parliament through the Department for Work and Pensions and is run on a not-for-profit basis. It is used by employers across the UK, including Northern Ireland (NI), to meet their automatic enrolment obligations. The purpose of the scheme is to ensure that all eligible workers have access to a workplace pension. Information on the scheme can be accessed at https://www.nestpensions.org.uk/schemeweb/nest.html
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040879%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472034"}},{"id":"472033","reference":"AQW 40878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-18","answerBy":"2026-03-05","answered":"2026-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made of difficulties faced by community pharmacies in sourcing commonly prescribed medicines, including medicines for pain relief, cardiovascular conditions and blood pressure.","answerText":"The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK and works closely with the devolved administrations, including my Department, the UK medicines regulator and others in the supply chain to ensure patients have fair and equitable access to treatments across the UK.\n\nI recognise the impact medicine supply shortages can have on patients and community pharmacy teams in Northern Ireland (NI), however, there are over 14,000 licensed medicines in the UK, and the majority are in good supply and are available in sufficient quantities to meet patient needs. Community pharmacies in NI have access to these medicines through numerous pharmaceutical wholesalers and medicine licence holders as part of the UK-wide medicine supply chain. My Department has seen no evidence that patients or community pharmacies accessing medicines in NI are more negatively impacted when compared to other regions of the UK.\n\nHowever, medicines are manufactured as part of a highly regulated, complex and global industry; therefore, medicine supply disruptions are not uncommon and can occur for a variety of reasons such as manufacturing issues or increases in demand globally.\n\nWhen a medicine is not available to meet overall patient demand, such as the current supply disruption affecting the pain relief medication, co-codamol 30mg/500mg tablets, there are well-established tools and processes that can be applied to ensure patients have access to appropriate treatments, including but not limited to providing healthcare professionals with advice and guidance on the actions they can take.\n\nAdditionally, if NI community pharmacies have concerns about accessing medicines in relation to pricing and reimbursement arrangements but the products remain available to meet overall patient need, these can be raised through the Drug Tariff Liaison Group.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) leads on the maintenance of medicine supply chains to the UK and works closely with the devolved administrations, including my Department, the UK medicines regulator and others in the supply chain to ensure patients have fair and equitable access to treatments across the UK.
I recognise the impact medicine supply shortages can have on patients and community pharmacy teams in Northern Ireland (NI), however, there are over 14,000 licensed medicines in the UK, and the majority are in good supply and are available in sufficient quantities to meet patient needs. Community pharmacies in NI have access to these medicines through numerous pharmaceutical wholesalers and medicine licence holders as part of the UK-wide medicine supply chain. My Department has seen no evidence that patients or community pharmacies accessing medicines in NI are more negatively impacted when compared to other regions of the UK.
However, medicines are manufactured as part of a highly regulated, complex and global industry; therefore, medicine supply disruptions are not uncommon and can occur for a variety of reasons such as manufacturing issues or increases in demand globally.
When a medicine is not available to meet overall patient demand, such as the current supply disruption affecting the pain relief medication, co-codamol 30mg/500mg tablets, there are well-established tools and processes that can be applied to ensure patients have access to appropriate treatments, including but not limited to providing healthcare professionals with advice and guidance on the actions they can take.
Additionally, if NI community pharmacies have concerns about accessing medicines in relation to pricing and reimbursement arrangements but the products remain available to meet overall patient need, these can be raised through the Drug Tariff Liaison Group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=472033","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=472033"}},{"id":"471803","reference":"AQW 40769/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-17","answerBy":"2026-03-04","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any assessment her Department has made of the condition of the road surface between Bellarena and Benone; and (ii) whether any resurfacing or tarmac works are planned for this route.","answerText":"Any resurfacing scheme would be co-ordinated with the proposed Signature Active Travel Scheme.\n\nDetails of all resurfacing schemes planned for the 2025/26 financial year are provided in my Department’s annual report to Council.\n\nIn the meantime, my Department will continue to undertake routine inspections and actionable defects will be prioritised for repair in accordance with the Limited Service Policy in so far as resources permit.","answerHtml":"Any resurfacing scheme would be co-ordinated with the proposed Signature Active Travel Scheme.
Details of all resurfacing schemes planned for the 2025/26 financial year are provided in my Department’s annual report to Council.
In the meantime, my Department will continue to undertake routine inspections and actionable defects will be prioritised for repair in accordance with the Limited Service Policy in so far as resources permit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040769%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471803"}},{"id":"471802","reference":"AQW 40768/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-17","answerBy":"2026-03-04","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the £3.8 million estimated cost of the proposed park and ride facility at Bellarena railway halt, including a breakdown of costs for (i) design; (ii) land acquisition; (iii) construction; and (iv) associated works.","answerText":"The table below provides a breakdown of estimated costs to deliver the new Park and Ride facility at Bellarena Rail Halt.\n\nItem\tCost\nConstruction\t£2,794,701\nProject management, design and statutory fees\t£259,419\nOptimum Basis and sunk costs\t£547,836\nInflation\t£221,924\nTotal\t£3,823,880","answerHtml":"The table below provides a breakdown of estimated costs to deliver the new Park and Ride facility at Bellarena Rail Halt.
| Item | Cost |
| Construction | £2,794,701 |
| Project management, design and statutory fees | £259,419 |
| Optimum Basis and sunk costs | £547,836 |
| Inflation | £221,924 |
| Total | £3,823,880 |
This issue is an operational matter for Translink. I have sought the requested information and have been advised as follows:
Coleraine Integrated Bus and Rail Station operate an hourly rail service with trains timed to connect with bus services to Portrush and the very popular tourist locations situated within the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area, functioning as a key transport hub for the northwest and providing substantial onward connections across the wider North West region. The 402 Causeway Rambler bus service operates on a year round basis providing transport connectivity to key tourism attractions between Coleraine and Ballycastle and coupled with this the 140 bus service provides connectivity between the towns of Coleraine, Portrush and Portstewart.
The North West Transport Hub facilitates integrated bus and rail services. All trains are met by a connecting dedicated bus link to Foyle Street bus centre thereby providing opportunities for interchange to the bus network and a range of journey options, including the 212 Goldline service between Derry and Belfast serving intermediate towns along that route, the X3/X4 service between Derry and Dublin, Foyle Metro services to the University of Ulster campus at Magee, and rural bus services operating between Derry and Limavady and connecting the communities along that route.
Translink continuously review all bus and rail services to ensure they remain safe, sustainable, reliable and meet its customers' needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471801","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471801"}},{"id":"471800","reference":"AQW 40766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-17","answerBy":"2026-03-04","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department will consider the provision of a dedicated car park at Castlerock Train Station, given the absence of on-site parking and the distance many users are required to walk to access the station.","answerText":"Castlerock Train Station is a historic facility, constructed in the mid1800s, and is located within the centre of the village. Given its setting, there is no current opportunity to provide dedicated onsite parking for commuters without the loss of important public amenity space, which is already in limited supply in Castlerock.\n\nI would continue to encourage all public transport users to consider using multimodal travel, including the use of bus, rail, and active travel options, to help reduce congestion and support sustainable transport objectives.","answerHtml":"Castlerock Train Station is a historic facility, constructed in the mid1800s, and is located within the centre of the village. Given its setting, there is no current opportunity to provide dedicated onsite parking for commuters without the loss of important public amenity space, which is already in limited supply in Castlerock.
I would continue to encourage all public transport users to consider using multimodal travel, including the use of bus, rail, and active travel options, to help reduce congestion and support sustainable transport objectives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471800"}},{"id":"471799","reference":"AQW 40765/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-17","answerBy":"2026-03-04","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in light of increased use of rail services for commuting and leisure travel, whether her Department will consider expanding the parking facilities at Coleraine Train Station.","answerText":"I welcome the increased use of rail services for both commuting and leisure purposes at Coleraine Train Station. However, given the towncentre location of the station, there is no suitable land available that would allow for an expansion of the existing parking facilities.\n\nAlongside the 74 free Park & Ride spaces provided by Translink, my Department also provides a further 477 lowcost parking spaces adjacent to the station, which support commuter access within the constraints of the area. Local bus services also operate from the station, and I would continue to encourage all public transport users to consider using multimodal travel, including the use of bus, rail, and active travel options, to help reduce congestion and support sustainable transport objectives.","answerHtml":"I welcome the increased use of rail services for both commuting and leisure purposes at Coleraine Train Station. However, given the towncentre location of the station, there is no suitable land available that would allow for an expansion of the existing parking facilities.
Alongside the 74 free Park & Ride spaces provided by Translink, my Department also provides a further 477 lowcost parking spaces adjacent to the station, which support commuter access within the constraints of the area. Local bus services also operate from the station, and I would continue to encourage all public transport users to consider using multimodal travel, including the use of bus, rail, and active travel options, to help reduce congestion and support sustainable transport objectives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040765%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471799"}},{"id":"471538","reference":"AQW 40655/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment that has been made of the impact of reduced access to routine and preventative dental care on demand for emergency dental, GP, and hospital services.","answerText":"At present, all registered patients can access emergency dental treatment at their registered practice, where their General Dental Practitioner has an obligation to provide the required treatment to in a timely manner.\n\nThe Dental Access Scheme (DAS) has been in operation since 1 August 2024. The DAS provides appointments to unregistered patients who require treatment to deal with urgent or pressing dental problems during the working week. My Department provided funding for up to 500 patients to be seen under the DAS per week. The performance data shows that there has been a high demand for this service with approximately 800 patients now accessing the service per week.\n\nFor any patient experiencing an urgent or emergency dental condition at weekends or public holidays, dental care can be obtained at one of the three Emergency Dental Clinics (EDCs) based in Belfast, Armagh and Ballymena. Patients are triaged remotely and appropriate advice given or treatment arranged. Again, there is a high demand for this service. The treatment appointments are currently limited to 55 patients per day but my Department has made funding available to the Southern HSC Trust to expand their EDC service which will increase the number of emergency appointments to 66 per day. My Officials are also working on a proposal to commission an Emergency Dental Clinic for the Western area to meet the demand for patients requiring out-of-hours emergency dental care, subject to the necessary funding being identified.\n\nIn addition, undergraduate dental students, based in the urgent student clinic (USC) in the Belfast Dental School provide emergency dental appointments for unregistered patients under the supervision of dental teaching staff. Patients can self-refer to this service, which is available during the university term time, i.e. 39 weeks per year. This service is heavily over-subscribed with 48 patients applying for the 16 appointments available per day. My Department has recently provided additional funding to the Belfast Trust to increase the number of appointments available to 20 per day and extend the opening of the USC by 10 weeks beyond term time.\n\nMy Department does not hold data for demand relating to emergency dental care provided by GPs or within hospital settings.","answerHtml":"At present, all registered patients can access emergency dental treatment at their registered practice, where their General Dental Practitioner has an obligation to provide the required treatment to in a timely manner.
The Dental Access Scheme (DAS) has been in operation since 1 August 2024. The DAS provides appointments to unregistered patients who require treatment to deal with urgent or pressing dental problems during the working week. My Department provided funding for up to 500 patients to be seen under the DAS per week. The performance data shows that there has been a high demand for this service with approximately 800 patients now accessing the service per week.
For any patient experiencing an urgent or emergency dental condition at weekends or public holidays, dental care can be obtained at one of the three Emergency Dental Clinics (EDCs) based in Belfast, Armagh and Ballymena. Patients are triaged remotely and appropriate advice given or treatment arranged. Again, there is a high demand for this service. The treatment appointments are currently limited to 55 patients per day but my Department has made funding available to the Southern HSC Trust to expand their EDC service which will increase the number of emergency appointments to 66 per day. My Officials are also working on a proposal to commission an Emergency Dental Clinic for the Western area to meet the demand for patients requiring out-of-hours emergency dental care, subject to the necessary funding being identified.
In addition, undergraduate dental students, based in the urgent student clinic (USC) in the Belfast Dental School provide emergency dental appointments for unregistered patients under the supervision of dental teaching staff. Patients can self-refer to this service, which is available during the university term time, i.e. 39 weeks per year. This service is heavily over-subscribed with 48 patients applying for the 16 appointments available per day. My Department has recently provided additional funding to the Belfast Trust to increase the number of appointments available to 20 per day and extend the opening of the USC by 10 weeks beyond term time.
My Department does not hold data for demand relating to emergency dental care provided by GPs or within hospital settings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040655%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471538","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471538"}},{"id":"471537","reference":"AQW 40654/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any preparatory work that has been undertaken to enable timely policy and funding decisions following publication of the General Dental Services Cost of Service Review.","answerText":"A General Dental Service Advisory Group is being established to provide independent expert advice, to ensure that reform aligns with Departmental priorities and addresses the needs of the patient.\n\nThe outworkings of this group and the cost of service review will allow for the development of an Action Plan in line with the timeline set out in the Three-Year Plan.","answerHtml":"A General Dental Service Advisory Group is being established to provide independent expert advice, to ensure that reform aligns with Departmental priorities and addresses the needs of the patient.
The outworkings of this group and the cost of service review will allow for the development of an Action Plan in line with the timeline set out in the Three-Year Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040654%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471537","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471537"}},{"id":"471536","reference":"AQW 40653/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail expenditure on health service dentistry per head of population, in the last five years.","answerText":"Health service dentistry is carried out both by Health and Social Care Trusts and Dental Practices. The total cost of health service dentistry per head of population in Northern Ireland over the last five years is shown in the table below:\n\nYear\tCost of HSCNI Dental Services per head of population\n2024/25\t£60.50\n2023/24\t£55.09\n2022/23\t£59.92\n2021/22\t£68.73\n2020/21\t£65.91","answerHtml":"Health service dentistry is carried out both by Health and Social Care Trusts and Dental Practices. The total cost of health service dentistry per head of population in Northern Ireland over the last five years is shown in the table below:
| Year | Cost of HSCNI Dental Services per head of population |
| 2024/25 | £60.50 |
| 2023/24 | £55.09 |
| 2022/23 | £59.92 |
| 2021/22 | £68.73 |
| 2020/21 | £65.91 |
To improve access to dental care for both registered and unregistered patients, and to support primary care capacity as part of the broader ‘shift-left’ agenda, I have invested £7 million in General Dental Services in 2025/26.
The £7million investment is funding the continuation of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme; a 30% enhancement on fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions, and root canal treatments; and a further £1.6million allocation to support dental practitioners who continue to provide Health Service dental care to patients.
An additional £2.5million has also been made available for General Dental Practitioners to help offset the increased cost of employers’ National Insurance contributions for Family Health Service providers.
I am clear that General Dental Services will require a sustained effort to ensure stability over the long term. The Department’s ‘Health and Social Care NI -Three-year plan’ includes a commitment to develop an action plan and programme of work for the reform of General Dental Services by April 2027.
A General Dental Services Advisory group is being established to provide independent, expert advice to the Department to inform the development of an Action Plan, and ensure that reform aligns with Departmental priorities and addresses patient needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040652%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471535","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471535"}},{"id":"471534","reference":"AQW 40651/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-16","answerBy":"2026-03-03","answered":"2026-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made of the financial sustainability of dental practices delivering predominantly health service care.","answerText":"In December 2024, I commissioned a General Dental Service Cost of Service review to provide a robust evidence base on the costs associated with delivering Health Service dentistry. This review is expected to be completed at the end of this financial year and will help to inform future decisions on the reform of General Dental Services.\n\nWhile this work is underway, I have made available additional funding to help offset the rising costs associated with National Insurance Contributions, and to support practitioners who continue to deliver Health Service dentistry.","answerHtml":"In December 2024, I commissioned a General Dental Service Cost of Service review to provide a robust evidence base on the costs associated with delivering Health Service dentistry. This review is expected to be completed at the end of this financial year and will help to inform future decisions on the reform of General Dental Services.
While this work is underway, I have made available additional funding to help offset the rising costs associated with National Insurance Contributions, and to support practitioners who continue to deliver Health Service dentistry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040651%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471534","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471534"}},{"id":"471286","reference":"AQW 40552/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-13","answerBy":"2026-03-02","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any steps her Department is taking to reduce the need for repeat interventions on the same sections of road.","answerText":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.\n\nI can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.\n\nI also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.\n\nThis new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.","answerHtml":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.
I can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.
I also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.
This new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040552%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471286","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471286"}},{"id":"471285","reference":"AQW 40551/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-13","answerBy":"2026-03-02","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether her Department uses whole-life costing to assess the long-term cost and effectiveness of road repairs; and (ii) whether investing in more durable resurfacing is being considered as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.","answerText":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.\n\nI can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.\n\nI also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.\n\nThis new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.","answerHtml":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.
I can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.
I also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.
This new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040551%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471285","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471285"}},{"id":"471284","reference":"AQW 40550/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-13","answerBy":"2026-03-02","answered":"2026-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the amount of funding allocated to road (i) maintenance; and (ii) resurfacing, in East Londonderry, in each of the last five financial years.","answerText":"My Department’s capital and resource structural maintenance expenditure, by council area covering the East Derry constituency, for each of the last five financial years, is set out in the table below:\n\nDistrict Council Area\tStructural Maintenance\tYear 20-21\tYear 21-22\tYear 22-23\tYear 23-24\tYear 24-25\n\n£m\nCauseway Coast & Glens\tResource\t1.2\t1.3\t1\t1.7\t1.7\nCapital\t10.3\t10.1\t10.3\t9.1\t10.9\nDerry City & Strabane\tResource\t1\t1.2\t1.6\t1.7\t2.1\nCapital\t6.7\t6.5\t9.8\t7.4\t8.2\n\nExpenditure is determined by budget allocation and capacity in any given year.\n\nResource Structural Maintenance includes patching of the carriageway and footways.\n\nCapital Structural Maintenance includes resurfacing and reconstruction, asphalt patching, surface dressing, capital investment in both drainage infrastructure and in the structural stability of embankments.","answerHtml":"My Department’s capital and resource structural maintenance expenditure, by council area covering the East Derry constituency, for each of the last five financial years, is set out in the table below:
| District Council Area | Structural Maintenance | Year 20-21 | Year 21-22 | Year 22-23 | Year 23-24 | Year 24-25 |
| £m | ||||||
| Causeway Coast & Glens | Resource | 1.2 | 1.3 | 1 | 1.7 | 1.7 |
| Capital | 10.3 | 10.1 | 10.3 | 9.1 | 10.9 | |
| Derry City & Strabane | Resource | 1 | 1.2 | 1.6 | 1.7 | 2.1 |
| Capital | 6.7 | 6.5 | 9.8 | 7.4 | 8.2 |
Expenditure is determined by budget allocation and capacity in any given year.
Resource Structural Maintenance includes patching of the carriageway and footways.
Capital Structural Maintenance includes resurfacing and reconstruction, asphalt patching, surface dressing, capital investment in both drainage infrastructure and in the structural stability of embankments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040550%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471284","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471284"}},{"id":"471283","reference":"AQW 40549/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-13","answerBy":"2026-03-02","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has a preventative road maintenance strategy in place.","answerText":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.\n\nI can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.\n\nI also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.\n\nThis new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.","answerHtml":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.
I can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.
I also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.
This new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040549%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471283","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471283"}},{"id":"471282","reference":"AQW 40548/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-13","answerBy":"2026-03-02","answered":"2026-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any work her Department is currently undertaking to ensure the road network is adapted to the impacts of climate change, including heavier rainfall, freeze-thaw cycles and flooding.","answerText":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.\n\nI can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.\n\nI also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.\n\nThis new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.","answerHtml":"The current impacts from winter weather, especially the very high levels of rainfall over the past few months, have exposed the weakness in our road network, resulting from many years of underinvestment.
I can confirm that I have established a £7.85m Winter Recovery Road Fund to allow an urgent and direct focus on repairing the surface defects which are causing the most concern.
I also recently launched ‘Better Roads’ - the draft Roads Maintenance Strategy, which outlines my Department’s intention to repair defects like potholes and protect the structural integrity of our roads by doing things in a new and different way.
This new Roads Maintenance Strategy will use cutting edge AI technology to gather a full and evidence-based survey of our road network, thereby identifying the stretches of road in the worst condition. This information will allow the improved targeting of resources to increase the effectiveness of road repairs, allowing localised areas of road to be resurfaced as a more cost-effective alternative to repeated patching.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040548%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471282"}},{"id":"471076","reference":"AQW 40440/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-12","answerBy":"2026-02-27","answered":"2026-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of access to the private rented sector in areas with limited housing supply, including East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has the statutory responsibility to regularly examine housing conditions and need.\n\nInformation produced as part of this work can be found at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/working-with-us/research. This includes a recent Housing Market Review Report on the Private Rented Sector, which can be found at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/working-with-us/research/northern-ireland-housing-market-data-hub/housing-market-review.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has the statutory responsibility to regularly examine housing conditions and need.
Information produced as part of this work can be found at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/working-with-us/research. This includes a recent Housing Market Review Report on the Private Rented Sector, which can be found at https://www.nihe.gov.uk/working-with-us/research/northern-ireland-housing-market-data-hub/housing-market-review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471076"}},{"id":"471075","reference":"AQW 40439/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-12","answerBy":"2026-02-27","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how frequently his Department reviews housing and homelessness strategies, to assess whether they remain effective in light of changing housing market conditions.","answerText":"A strategic review of the Housing Supply Strategy will be carried out every five years. Progress reports on the delivery of agreed Strategy Action Plans will also be undertaken annually.\n\nThe Housing (NI) Order 1988 requires the Housing Executive to publish a new homelessness strategy every five years.","answerHtml":"A strategic review of the Housing Supply Strategy will be carried out every five years. Progress reports on the delivery of agreed Strategy Action Plans will also be undertaken annually.
The Housing (NI) Order 1988 requires the Housing Executive to publish a new homelessness strategy every five years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040439%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471075"}},{"id":"471074","reference":"AQW 40438/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-12","answerBy":"2026-02-27","answered":"2026-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of whether existing homelessness prevention measures are sufficient to prevent homelessness arising from landlord sales in the private rented sector.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive is unable to prevent landlords from selling their properties, and there is no specific prevention measure open to the Housing Executive in this regard.\n\nIn the event an applicant presents to the Housing Executive having received a Notice to Quit due to property sale, the Housing Executive will provide advice and assistance as part of our Housing Solutions and Support approach.\n\nThis may include exploring alternative housing options to prevent homelessness such as the private rented sector and co-ownership models, making referrals to support services as appropriate, and carrying out a homeless assessment under the Housing (NI) Order 1988, where an applicant is threatened with homelessness within 28 days.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive is unable to prevent landlords from selling their properties, and there is no specific prevention measure open to the Housing Executive in this regard.
In the event an applicant presents to the Housing Executive having received a Notice to Quit due to property sale, the Housing Executive will provide advice and assistance as part of our Housing Solutions and Support approach.
This may include exploring alternative housing options to prevent homelessness such as the private rented sector and co-ownership models, making referrals to support services as appropriate, and carrying out a homeless assessment under the Housing (NI) Order 1988, where an applicant is threatened with homelessness within 28 days.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040438%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471074"}},{"id":"471073","reference":"AQW 40437/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-12","answerBy":"2026-02-27","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any interim policy measures in place within his Department to reduce prolonged stays in unsuitable temporary accommodation, while longer-term housing supply initiatives are delivered.","answerText":"I am looking at innovative ways to increase housing supply across all tenures. Following the additional funding I secured in December Monitoring, the Social Housing Development Programme is expected to start 1,750 and complete 1,500 new social homes this year.\n\nI also introduced the Loan to Acquire Move-on Accommodation (LAMA) scheme in December 2024 to enable charities to purchase properties and provide secure, affordable tenancies for those with low support needs. This scheme allows those who are tenancy ready, but who can not access social housing, or the private rented sector, to move out of temporary accommodation.\n\nAlready, £4m of the £10m of financial transaction capital available has been allocated and officials continue to engage with sectoral partners to progress further business cases.","answerHtml":"I am looking at innovative ways to increase housing supply across all tenures. Following the additional funding I secured in December Monitoring, the Social Housing Development Programme is expected to start 1,750 and complete 1,500 new social homes this year.
I also introduced the Loan to Acquire Move-on Accommodation (LAMA) scheme in December 2024 to enable charities to purchase properties and provide secure, affordable tenancies for those with low support needs. This scheme allows those who are tenancy ready, but who can not access social housing, or the private rented sector, to move out of temporary accommodation.
Already, £4m of the £10m of financial transaction capital available has been allocated and officials continue to engage with sectoral partners to progress further business cases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040437%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471073"}},{"id":"471072","reference":"AQW 40436/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-12","answerBy":"2026-02-27","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions available to his Department where monitoring shows that housing or homelessness strategies are not delivering improved outcomes for families.","answerText":"The Housing Supply Strategy is being implemented through a series of short-term Action Plans. Each Plan will be subject to regular review with reports published which track progress against defined measures. Progress against Strategy indicators will also be reviewed at the end of each Action Plan period which will help inform the development of actions in subsequent Plans.\n\nThe Homelessness Strategy is delivered via Annual Action Plans. Progress is reviewed each year enabling the Housing Executive to adjust their Action Plans as needed.","answerHtml":"The Housing Supply Strategy is being implemented through a series of short-term Action Plans. Each Plan will be subject to regular review with reports published which track progress against defined measures. Progress against Strategy indicators will also be reviewed at the end of each Action Plan period which will help inform the development of actions in subsequent Plans.
The Homelessness Strategy is delivered via Annual Action Plans. Progress is reviewed each year enabling the Housing Executive to adjust their Action Plans as needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040436%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=471072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=471072"}},{"id":"470522","reference":"AQW 40208/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-10","answerBy":"2026-02-25","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any steps he will take to ensure the Warm Healthy Homes Fund will prioritise older people with cold-related health risks; and (ii) whether grants will support a whole-house approach incorporating (a) insulation; (b) heating upgrades; and (c) ventilation improvements.","answerText":"As part of the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy consultation, views were sought on the policy for the Warm Healthy Homes Fund. There was widespread agreement that the fund prioritises low-income and vulnerable households living in the poorest-performing properties and that a whole house approach should be taken. The Warm Healthy Homes Fund will offer a package of measures such as insulation, draught proofing and ventilation, alongside heating systems incorporating low-carbon heat solutions and renewable technologies. The final scheme design will be shaped by further public consultation which will be published shortly.","answerHtml":"As part of the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy consultation, views were sought on the policy for the Warm Healthy Homes Fund. There was widespread agreement that the fund prioritises low-income and vulnerable households living in the poorest-performing properties and that a whole house approach should be taken. The Warm Healthy Homes Fund will offer a package of measures such as insulation, draught proofing and ventilation, alongside heating systems incorporating low-carbon heat solutions and renewable technologies. The final scheme design will be shaped by further public consultation which will be published shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040208%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470522"}},{"id":"470521","reference":"AQW 40207/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-10","answerBy":"2026-02-25","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the Warm Healthy Homes Strategy will ensure support reaches low-income working households. who may not qualify for means-tested benefits. but who still face fuel poverty, including those affected by high childcare and transport costs.","answerText":"The Warm Healthy Homes Strategy adopts a needs-based approach to prioritise support to households in or experiencing the greatest risk of fuel poverty, rather than relying solely on benefit entitlement.\n\nA cornerstone of the Strategy is the ‘Warm Healthy Homes Fund’, launching in 2027. The Fund will deliver energy-efficiency upgrades with support aimed at low income and vulnerable households, not just benefit recipients.\n\nThis will sit alongside the Strategy’s commitment to coordinating all future energy efficiency interventions across government to ensure that they are consistent, flexible, and targeted at those most in need.\n\nThe Strategy commits to strengthening access to trusted, community-based energy advice and information. This will broaden the ways in which all households can access trusted advice, ensuring support is easier to reach as the Strategy develops.\n\nImproving housing standards and enforcement across all tenures is another integral element of the Strategy. By raising housing standards, the Strategy aims to create warmer, healthier and more efficient homes, initially in the social housing sector and then for the private rented sector, which will reduce the conditions that contribute to damp, mould and poorer health, whilst helping to lower energy bills for those households.","answerHtml":"The Warm Healthy Homes Strategy adopts a needs-based approach to prioritise support to households in or experiencing the greatest risk of fuel poverty, rather than relying solely on benefit entitlement.
A cornerstone of the Strategy is the ‘Warm Healthy Homes Fund’, launching in 2027. The Fund will deliver energy-efficiency upgrades with support aimed at low income and vulnerable households, not just benefit recipients.
This will sit alongside the Strategy’s commitment to coordinating all future energy efficiency interventions across government to ensure that they are consistent, flexible, and targeted at those most in need.
The Strategy commits to strengthening access to trusted, community-based energy advice and information. This will broaden the ways in which all households can access trusted advice, ensuring support is easier to reach as the Strategy develops.
Improving housing standards and enforcement across all tenures is another integral element of the Strategy. By raising housing standards, the Strategy aims to create warmer, healthier and more efficient homes, initially in the social housing sector and then for the private rented sector, which will reduce the conditions that contribute to damp, mould and poorer health, whilst helping to lower energy bills for those households.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040207%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470521","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470521"}},{"id":"470520","reference":"AQW 40206/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-10","answerBy":"2026-02-25","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any steps he will take to ensure guidance and application materials for the Warm Healthy Homes Fund will be designed to allow accessibility for older people, including those with limited digital experience, and (ii) whether materials will be available in (a) clear language; (b) large print; and (c) alternative formats.","answerText":"My officials are currently developing the scheme design and delivery requirements for the new Warm Healthy Homes Fund: an energy efficiency scheme to improve warmth, health and energy affordability for low-income households. The scheme will be shaped by further public consultation in the next few months.\n\nA key aspect of implementation will involve close collaboration with the appointed delivery partner to ensure all scheme materials adhere to accessibility standards and are straightforward for applicants to use. This will include providing information in large print and other alternative formats. While the scheme is expected to adopt a ‘digitalfirst’ approach, it is recognised that applications must also be available through nondigital channels, including by telephone or in writing, and with additional support such as translation services, video relay or signlanguage assistance where required.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently developing the scheme design and delivery requirements for the new Warm Healthy Homes Fund: an energy efficiency scheme to improve warmth, health and energy affordability for low-income households. The scheme will be shaped by further public consultation in the next few months.
A key aspect of implementation will involve close collaboration with the appointed delivery partner to ensure all scheme materials adhere to accessibility standards and are straightforward for applicants to use. This will include providing information in large print and other alternative formats. While the scheme is expected to adopt a ‘digitalfirst’ approach, it is recognised that applications must also be available through nondigital channels, including by telephone or in writing, and with additional support such as translation services, video relay or signlanguage assistance where required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470520"}},{"id":"470519","reference":"AQW 40205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-10","answerBy":"2026-02-25","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any proposals he intends to bring forward to raise energy-efficiency standards, in the private rented sector.","answerText":"Work has commenced to develop and introduce Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards Regulations for the private rented sector. It is, however, too early in the policy development process to provide specific detail on proposals. Progress will be reported on as part of the implementation of the Housing Supply and Warm Healthy Homes Strategies.","answerHtml":"Work has commenced to develop and introduce Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards Regulations for the private rented sector. It is, however, too early in the policy development process to provide specific detail on proposals. Progress will be reported on as part of the implementation of the Housing Supply and Warm Healthy Homes Strategies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470519"}},{"id":"470267","reference":"AQW 40106/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-09","answerBy":"2026-02-24","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of women currently waiting more than 52 weeks for a first outpatient gynaecology appointment, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Accredited Official Statistics for the number of patients waiting for a first consultant-led outpatient appointment under the Gynaecology specialty is published on a quarterly basis in the ‘Northern Ireland Outpatient Waiting Time Statistics’. Figures broken down by HSC Trust, specialty, and time band are published in the accompanying data files. The most recent issue of this bulletin has a reporting date of 30 September 2025 and is available here:https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/outpatient-waiting-times","answerHtml":"Accredited Official Statistics for the number of patients waiting for a first consultant-led outpatient appointment under the Gynaecology specialty is published on a quarterly basis in the ‘Northern Ireland Outpatient Waiting Time Statistics’. Figures broken down by HSC Trust, specialty, and time band are published in the accompanying data files. The most recent issue of this bulletin has a reporting date of 30 September 2025 and is available here:https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/outpatient-waiting-times
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040106%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470267"}},{"id":"470266","reference":"AQW 40105/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-09","answerBy":"2026-02-24","answered":"2026-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any additional capacity for gynaecology assessment and treatment that has been commissioned in the last 12 months, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Within the last 12 months, each of the Trusts have accessed non-recurrent funding to reduce the >3-year outpatient backlog. This has been achieved with additional capacity being made available via Waiting List Reduction (WLR) funding to send patients to the Independent Sector (IS), as detailed below.\n\nAssessments\tTreatments\tDiagnostics\nActivity\tSpend\tActivity\tSpend\tActivity\tSpend\nBelfast Trust\t1,518\t£484, 388\t160\t£51,616\nNorthern Trust\t557\t£849,550\nSouth Eastern Trust\t538\t£106,744\t25\t£66,039\t35\t£11,975\nSouthern Trust\t1,141\t£857,335\nWestern Trust\t357\t£94,828\t6\t£15,343\nTotal\t4,111\t£2,392,843\t192\t£132,998\t\t£11,975\n\nTo support earlier validation and prioritisation of patients on the waiting list, some Trusts commissioned additional administrative sessions dedicated to telephone validation. This enabled administrative teams to work through substantial numbers of cases, ensuring that patient information, clinical need, and waiting list status were reviewed efficiently and accurately.\n\nThese initiatives have collectively enhanced service capacity and contributed to targeted reductions in gynaecology waiting lists. This has been progressed as part of the regionally coordinated Gynae Collaborative with funding support from my Department.\n\nNurse Led colposcopy/ hysteroscopy services have been extended by recurrent funding being made available for a model of two Lead Nurses for colposcopy and hysteroscopy in each Trust.\n\nFurther investment is currently being planned for Clinical E-Triage, additional sonography and Advanced Nurse Practitioners in each Trust.","answerHtml":"Within the last 12 months, each of the Trusts have accessed non-recurrent funding to reduce the >3-year outpatient backlog. This has been achieved with additional capacity being made available via Waiting List Reduction (WLR) funding to send patients to the Independent Sector (IS), as detailed below.
| Assessments | Treatments | Diagnostics | ||||
| Activity | Spend | Activity | Spend | Activity | Spend | |
| Belfast Trust | 1,518 | £484, 388 | 160 | £51,616 | ||
| Northern Trust | 557 | £849,550 | ||||
| South Eastern Trust | 538 | £106,744 | 25 | £66,039 | 35 | £11,975 |
| Southern Trust | 1,141 | £857,335 | ||||
| Western Trust | 357 | £94,828 | 6 | £15,343 | ||
| Total | 4,111 | £2,392,843 | 192 | £132,998 | £11,975 |
To support earlier validation and prioritisation of patients on the waiting list, some Trusts commissioned additional administrative sessions dedicated to telephone validation. This enabled administrative teams to work through substantial numbers of cases, ensuring that patient information, clinical need, and waiting list status were reviewed efficiently and accurately.
These initiatives have collectively enhanced service capacity and contributed to targeted reductions in gynaecology waiting lists. This has been progressed as part of the regionally coordinated Gynae Collaborative with funding support from my Department.
Nurse Led colposcopy/ hysteroscopy services have been extended by recurrent funding being made available for a model of two Lead Nurses for colposcopy and hysteroscopy in each Trust.
Further investment is currently being planned for Clinical E-Triage, additional sonography and Advanced Nurse Practitioners in each Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040105%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470266"}},{"id":"470265","reference":"AQW 40104/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-09","answerBy":"2026-02-24","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment that has been made of the impact of prolonged waiting times for gynaecology services on unplanned care, including repeat GP attendances and emergency presentations.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040104%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470265","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470265"}},{"id":"470264","reference":"AQW 40103/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-09","answerBy":"2026-02-24","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any routine clinical review arrangements that are in place for women who have been waiting more than 52 weeks, for a first outpatient gynaecology appointment.","answerText":"Trust are currently undertaking a waiting list reduction process for first outpatient gynaecology appointments. To achieve this, a number of steps are currently underway.\n\nFirstly, an administrative validation process is undertaken to cleanse the new outpatient list.\n\nSecondly, each patient is clinically validated by a consultant gynaecologist to ensure that the most appropriate appointment is organised for the patient based on the initial referral to gynaecology.\n\nFollowing consultant clinical validation, there are various options of appointments for these patients, which include:\n\nA face-to-face outpatient appointment with a consultant; A telephone consultation with a consultant; Onward referral to a nurse / pessary service; Or referral to physiotherapy for further management.\n\nAs part of a regional Gynae Collaborative programme aimed at addressing gynaecology waits exceeding three years, many Trusts have initiated telephone consultation clinics for all patients waiting more than three years. Once this cohort is completed and dependent on resources available, the programme will be extended to those waiting over two years and thereafter to patients waiting over one year.","answerHtml":"Trust are currently undertaking a waiting list reduction process for first outpatient gynaecology appointments. To achieve this, a number of steps are currently underway.
Firstly, an administrative validation process is undertaken to cleanse the new outpatient list.
Secondly, each patient is clinically validated by a consultant gynaecologist to ensure that the most appropriate appointment is organised for the patient based on the initial referral to gynaecology.
Following consultant clinical validation, there are various options of appointments for these patients, which include:
A face-to-face outpatient appointment with a consultant; A telephone consultation with a consultant; Onward referral to a nurse / pessary service; Or referral to physiotherapy for further management.
As part of a regional Gynae Collaborative programme aimed at addressing gynaecology waits exceeding three years, many Trusts have initiated telephone consultation clinics for all patients waiting more than three years. Once this cohort is completed and dependent on resources available, the programme will be extended to those waiting over two years and thereafter to patients waiting over one year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040103%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=470264","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=470264"}},{"id":"469842","reference":"AQW 39873/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-20","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment made of the capacity of early learning and childcare providers to support children with special educational needs, particularly where settings do not have the financial resources to fund specialist training or additional staffing.","answerText":"The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy | Department of Education, launched on 17 December 2025, has been informed by a comprehensive engagement process, the department’s End-to-End Review of early intervention specific to the early years and the RSM (2023) DE Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn response to these, a range of measures to support early learning and childcare providers to support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEN/D) have already commenced with the initial Executive £80m investment on early earning and childcare provision in the last two financial years, these include the Pre-school Inclusion Fund assisting pre-school settings to support children with SEN and the extension of the Department of Health’s (DoH) Fair Play grant scheme. Continuation and expansion of these schemes, as well as support for specialist training for providers, are set out in the draft strategy. However, the scale and pace of implementation of the proposals are subject to Executive agreement and the availability of the funding required.","answerHtml":"The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy | Department of Education, launched on 17 December 2025, has been informed by a comprehensive engagement process, the department’s End-to-End Review of early intervention specific to the early years and the RSM (2023) DE Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland.
In response to these, a range of measures to support early learning and childcare providers to support children with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEN/D) have already commenced with the initial Executive £80m investment on early earning and childcare provision in the last two financial years, these include the Pre-school Inclusion Fund assisting pre-school settings to support children with SEN and the extension of the Department of Health’s (DoH) Fair Play grant scheme. Continuation and expansion of these schemes, as well as support for specialist training for providers, are set out in the draft strategy. However, the scale and pace of implementation of the proposals are subject to Executive agreement and the availability of the funding required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039873%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469842"}},{"id":"469841","reference":"AQW 39872/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-20","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration that has been given to allocating one-to-one special educational needs support on the basis of the child’s needs, rather than the setting attended, to support continuity of care across early years, childcare and school provision.","answerText":"The draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, currently issued for public consultation Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy | Department of Education, includes specific proposed initiatives to support early learning and childcare providers to respond and meet the needs of all children including those with additional needs/disability.\n\nProposed actions include:\n\na plan to develop of a specific SEN CPD framework for education settings and childcare providers;\n\nagreed protocol for sharing of information on children’s developmental journeys;\n\ndevelopment of a holistic approach to child development bringing together Allied Health Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists and others to develop a targeted programme for children with emerging additional needs;\n\nthe establishment of a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund inclusive of provision for children with additional needs;\n\nextension of the Department of Health (DoH) Fair Play grant scheme,\n\nprovide high-quality support services and professional advice to both non-statutory and statutory PSEP providers to develop good practice and support them to meet the needs of all children; and\n\ncontinuation of the Pre-school Inclusion Fund which I established in November 2024 and expanded in November 2025.\n\nThe full range of initiatives set out in the draft strategy, if agreed and resourced, will support comprehensive, needs based early learning and childcare provision for all children.","answerHtml":"The draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, currently issued for public consultation Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy | Department of Education, includes specific proposed initiatives to support early learning and childcare providers to respond and meet the needs of all children including those with additional needs/disability.
Proposed actions include:
a plan to develop of a specific SEN CPD framework for education settings and childcare providers;
agreed protocol for sharing of information on children’s developmental journeys;
development of a holistic approach to child development bringing together Allied Health Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists and others to develop a targeted programme for children with emerging additional needs;
the establishment of a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund inclusive of provision for children with additional needs;
extension of the Department of Health (DoH) Fair Play grant scheme,
provide high-quality support services and professional advice to both non-statutory and statutory PSEP providers to develop good practice and support them to meet the needs of all children; and
continuation of the Pre-school Inclusion Fund which I established in November 2024 and expanded in November 2025.
The full range of initiatives set out in the draft strategy, if agreed and resourced, will support comprehensive, needs based early learning and childcare provision for all children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039872%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469841"}},{"id":"469840","reference":"AQW 39871/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-20","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the Draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy will address situations where children who receive one-to-one support in school settings, do not receive equivalent support in early learning or childcare provisions.","answerText":"The draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, currently issued for public consultation Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy | Department of Education, includes specific proposed initiatives to support early learning and childcare providers to respond and meet the needs of all children including those with additional needs/disability.\n\nProposed actions include:\n\na plan to develop of a specific SEN CPD framework for education settings and childcare providers;\n\nagreed protocol for sharing of information on children’s developmental journeys;\n\ndevelopment of a holistic approach to child development bringing together Allied Health Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists and others to develop a targeted programme for children with emerging additional needs;\n\nthe establishment of a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund inclusive of provision for children with additional needs;\n\nextension of the Department of Health (DoH) Fair Play grant scheme,\n\nprovide high-quality support services and professional advice to both non-statutory and statutory PSEP providers to develop good practice and support them to meet the needs of all children; and\n\ncontinuation of the Pre-school Inclusion Fund which I established in November 2024 and expanded in November 2025.\n\nThe full range of initiatives set out in the draft strategy, if agreed and resourced, will support comprehensive, needs based early learning and childcare provision for all children.","answerHtml":"The draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, currently issued for public consultation Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy | Department of Education, includes specific proposed initiatives to support early learning and childcare providers to respond and meet the needs of all children including those with additional needs/disability.
Proposed actions include:
a plan to develop of a specific SEN CPD framework for education settings and childcare providers;
agreed protocol for sharing of information on children’s developmental journeys;
development of a holistic approach to child development bringing together Allied Health Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists and others to develop a targeted programme for children with emerging additional needs;
the establishment of a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund inclusive of provision for children with additional needs;
extension of the Department of Health (DoH) Fair Play grant scheme,
provide high-quality support services and professional advice to both non-statutory and statutory PSEP providers to develop good practice and support them to meet the needs of all children; and
continuation of the Pre-school Inclusion Fund which I established in November 2024 and expanded in November 2025.
The full range of initiatives set out in the draft strategy, if agreed and resourced, will support comprehensive, needs based early learning and childcare provision for all children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039871%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469840"}},{"id":"469839","reference":"AQW 39870/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-05","answerBy":"2026-02-20","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration given to enabling early learning and childcare providers to make referrals for special educational needs assessments, where concerns are identified.","answerText":"All registered early years and childcare providers must adhere to the Department of Health (DoH) Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12. Standard 9 of these stipulates the requirements placed on the registered person, person in charge or childminder regarding identification of a child in their care as possibly having additional needs.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/early-years-standards-full-version.pdf .\n\nThe draft ELC Strategy launched on 17 December 2025 for public consultation, seeks to further enhance identification of and response to the needs of all children. It sets out a range of proposed actions to this effect. These include a holistic approach to child development through integrated family-centered services which brings together Allied Health Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists, early years practitioners, family support teams, and others to develop a targeted programme for children with emerging additional needs, and extended access to developmental support for children aged 2–3, initially prioritising children facing disadvantage and those with additional needs.\n\nAs with all initiatives proposed within the draft ELC Strategy, the extent to which they can be delivered will be dependent on the resources made available by the Executive.","answerHtml":"All registered early years and childcare providers must adhere to the Department of Health (DoH) Minimum Standards for Childminding and Day Care for Children Under Age 12. Standard 9 of these stipulates the requirements placed on the registered person, person in charge or childminder regarding identification of a child in their care as possibly having additional needs.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/early-years-standards-full-version.pdf .
The draft ELC Strategy launched on 17 December 2025 for public consultation, seeks to further enhance identification of and response to the needs of all children. It sets out a range of proposed actions to this effect. These include a holistic approach to child development through integrated family-centered services which brings together Allied Health Professionals, Speech and Language Therapists, early years practitioners, family support teams, and others to develop a targeted programme for children with emerging additional needs, and extended access to developmental support for children aged 2–3, initially prioritising children facing disadvantage and those with additional needs.
As with all initiatives proposed within the draft ELC Strategy, the extent to which they can be delivered will be dependent on the resources made available by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039870%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469839"}},{"id":"469580","reference":"AQW 39773/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-04","answerBy":"2026-02-19","answered":"2026-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps his Department plans to take to ensure that the expansion of wraparound childcare does not inadvertently undermine the sustainability of established after-school services.","answerText":"The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, published on 17 December 2025, sets out a long-term vision that supports quality, accessibility and sustainability across all early learning and childcare provision\n\nto meet the needs of children and families.","answerHtml":"The draft Executive Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, published on 17 December 2025, sets out a long-term vision that supports quality, accessibility and sustainability across all early learning and childcare provision
to meet the needs of children and families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039773%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469580"}},{"id":"469579","reference":"AQW 39772/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-04","answerBy":"2026-02-19","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the Draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy seeks to balance improving affordability for families, with ensuring providers are able to operate on a financially sustainable basis.","answerText":"The independent Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland (RSM, 2023) identified clear financial pressures across the sector, including workforce recruitment and retention challenges linked to relatively low pay, increased operating costs and declining profitability. A copy of the report can be found here:\n\nRSM (2023) DE Review of Childcare Services in NI - Final Report.PDF\n\nSubsequently, the Department of the Economy's Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research further examined business sustainability challenges. This report identified sustained pressures from energy, insurance and, in particular, staffing costs, including the April 2025 increases in the National Minimum Wage and Employers’ National Insurance contributions. However, the research also recognised that there is no single childcare business model in operation across the sector, with each provider operating under different cost and income structures. A copy of the report can be found here:\n\nChildcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research\n\nThe draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy aims to reduce childcare costs for parents by expanding the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme, while also enhancing the long‑term sustainability of providers. Proposals include the creation of a Childcare Business Advisory Service, offering tailored guidance to strengthen viability and to gain a better understanding of the financial needs of the sector, so that future supports can be tailored over time.\n\nThe Strategy also proposes a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund to improve access to early years services where demand outstrips supply, including disadvantaged communities, rural areas, and services for children with additional needs. In addition, a PSEP Strategic Support Fund will help address short‑term pressures in strategically important non‑statutory pre‑school settings.\n\nAdditional measures focus on workforce sustainability, including improved pay structures, commitments toward the Real Living Wage, clearer career pathways, and expanded professional development and training to address recruitment and retention challenges","answerHtml":"The independent Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland (RSM, 2023) identified clear financial pressures across the sector, including workforce recruitment and retention challenges linked to relatively low pay, increased operating costs and declining profitability. A copy of the report can be found here:
RSM (2023) DE Review of Childcare Services in NI - Final Report.PDF
Subsequently, the Department of the Economy's Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research further examined business sustainability challenges. This report identified sustained pressures from energy, insurance and, in particular, staffing costs, including the April 2025 increases in the National Minimum Wage and Employers’ National Insurance contributions. However, the research also recognised that there is no single childcare business model in operation across the sector, with each provider operating under different cost and income structures. A copy of the report can be found here:
Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research
The draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy aims to reduce childcare costs for parents by expanding the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme, while also enhancing the long‑term sustainability of providers. Proposals include the creation of a Childcare Business Advisory Service, offering tailored guidance to strengthen viability and to gain a better understanding of the financial needs of the sector, so that future supports can be tailored over time.
The Strategy also proposes a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund to improve access to early years services where demand outstrips supply, including disadvantaged communities, rural areas, and services for children with additional needs. In addition, a PSEP Strategic Support Fund will help address short‑term pressures in strategically important non‑statutory pre‑school settings.
Additional measures focus on workforce sustainability, including improved pay structures, commitments toward the Real Living Wage, clearer career pathways, and expanded professional development and training to address recruitment and retention challenges
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039772%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469579"}},{"id":"469578","reference":"AQW 39771/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-04","answerBy":"2026-02-19","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any specific measures, proposed within the Draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, to address recruitment and retention challenges within the early years workforce.","answerText":"The draft Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, currently issued for public consultation, sets out proposals that will support the recruitment and retention challenges facing the sector under Theme 3: Supporting the Early Years Sector and Workforce\n\nKey proposals include:-\n\nThe Development of a comprehensive early learning and childcare Workforce Plan to support the development of the current workforce and incentivise early learning and childcare as a valued career choice.\n\nEstablishing a clear qualification and career framework with enhanced CPD and leadership pathways.\n\nPromoting professionalisation of the sector, including a representative body.\n\nIn conjunction with the ‘Good Jobs’ priority in DfE’s Economic Vision, promote the Real Living Wage with early learning and childcare employing organisations.\n\nThe full Strategy can be accessed here:\n\ndraft Northen Ireland Early Learning and Childcare Strategy","answerHtml":"The draft Early Learning and Childcare (ELC) Strategy, currently issued for public consultation, sets out proposals that will support the recruitment and retention challenges facing the sector under Theme 3: Supporting the Early Years Sector and Workforce
Key proposals include:-
The Development of a comprehensive early learning and childcare Workforce Plan to support the development of the current workforce and incentivise early learning and childcare as a valued career choice.
Establishing a clear qualification and career framework with enhanced CPD and leadership pathways.
Promoting professionalisation of the sector, including a representative body.
In conjunction with the ‘Good Jobs’ priority in DfE’s Economic Vision, promote the Real Living Wage with early learning and childcare employing organisations.
The full Strategy can be accessed here:
draft Northen Ireland Early Learning and Childcare Strategy
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039771%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469578"}},{"id":"469577","reference":"AQW 39770/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-04","answerBy":"2026-02-19","answered":"2026-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment his Department has made of whether recent childcare subsidy uplifts have improved the financial viability of providers, as opposed to being absorbed by rising operating costs.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) is designed to reduce the net cost of childcare for families. It is not intended to improve the financial viability of providers. The 15% subsidy is applied directly to parents’ bills and has remained unchanged since the scheme began in September 2024; no uplifts have been made to this rate.\n\nIn April 2025, the maximum subsidy cap was uplifted by 10%, from £167 to £184 per child per month. This was to ensure that families whose childcare costs were close to the cap continued to receive the full 15% subsidy in the context of expected price increases. This adjustment benefitted parents only and did not alter the subsidy rate.\n\nAt the same time, a separate uplift was applied to the administrative fee paid to providers. This payment is intended solely to offset the costs of administering NICSS, such as onboarding children, invoicing claims and verification. It is not designed to address wider operational cost pressures or to improve the financial viability of providers.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme (NICSS) is designed to reduce the net cost of childcare for families. It is not intended to improve the financial viability of providers. The 15% subsidy is applied directly to parents’ bills and has remained unchanged since the scheme began in September 2024; no uplifts have been made to this rate.
In April 2025, the maximum subsidy cap was uplifted by 10%, from £167 to £184 per child per month. This was to ensure that families whose childcare costs were close to the cap continued to receive the full 15% subsidy in the context of expected price increases. This adjustment benefitted parents only and did not alter the subsidy rate.
At the same time, a separate uplift was applied to the administrative fee paid to providers. This payment is intended solely to offset the costs of administering NICSS, such as onboarding children, invoicing claims and verification. It is not designed to address wider operational cost pressures or to improve the financial viability of providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039770%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469577"}},{"id":"469576","reference":"AQW 39769/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-04","answerBy":"2026-02-19","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment his Department has made of the impact of rising operational costs, including rates, energy and staffing, on the sustainability of early learning and childcare providers.","answerText":"The independent Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland (RSM, 2023) identified clear financial pressures across the sector, including workforce recruitment and retention challenges linked to relatively low pay, increased operating costs and declining profitability. A copy of the report can be found here:\n\nRSM (2023) DE Review of Childcare Services in NI - Final Report.PDF\n\nSubsequently, the Department of the Economy's Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research further examined business sustainability challenges. This report identified sustained pressures from energy, insurance and, in particular, staffing costs, including the April 2025 increases in the National Minimum Wage and Employers’ National Insurance contributions. However, the research also recognised that there is no single childcare business model in operation across the sector, with each provider operating under different cost and income structures. A copy of the report can be found here:\n\nChildcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research\n\nThe draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy aims to reduce childcare costs for parents by expanding the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme, while also enhancing the long‑term sustainability of providers. Proposals include the creation of a Childcare Business Advisory Service, offering tailored guidance to strengthen viability and to gain a better understanding of the financial needs of the sector, so that future supports can be tailored over time.\n\nThe Strategy also proposes a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund to improve access to early years services where demand outstrips supply, including disadvantaged communities, rural areas, and services for children with additional needs. In addition, a PSEP Strategic Support Fund will help address short‑term pressures in strategically important non‑statutory pre‑school settings.\n\nAdditional measures focus on workforce sustainability, including improved pay structures, commitments toward the Real Living Wage, clearer career pathways, and expanded professional development and training to address recruitment and retention challenges","answerHtml":"The independent Review of Childcare Services in Northern Ireland (RSM, 2023) identified clear financial pressures across the sector, including workforce recruitment and retention challenges linked to relatively low pay, increased operating costs and declining profitability. A copy of the report can be found here:
RSM (2023) DE Review of Childcare Services in NI - Final Report.PDF
Subsequently, the Department of the Economy's Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research further examined business sustainability challenges. This report identified sustained pressures from energy, insurance and, in particular, staffing costs, including the April 2025 increases in the National Minimum Wage and Employers’ National Insurance contributions. However, the research also recognised that there is no single childcare business model in operation across the sector, with each provider operating under different cost and income structures. A copy of the report can be found here:
Childcare Providers Targeted Business Support Market Research
The draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy aims to reduce childcare costs for parents by expanding the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme, while also enhancing the long‑term sustainability of providers. Proposals include the creation of a Childcare Business Advisory Service, offering tailored guidance to strengthen viability and to gain a better understanding of the financial needs of the sector, so that future supports can be tailored over time.
The Strategy also proposes a Strategic Childcare Accessibility Fund to improve access to early years services where demand outstrips supply, including disadvantaged communities, rural areas, and services for children with additional needs. In addition, a PSEP Strategic Support Fund will help address short‑term pressures in strategically important non‑statutory pre‑school settings.
Additional measures focus on workforce sustainability, including improved pay structures, commitments toward the Real Living Wage, clearer career pathways, and expanded professional development and training to address recruitment and retention challenges
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039769%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469576"}},{"id":"469320","reference":"AQW 39672/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-03","answerBy":"2026-02-18","answered":"2026-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any assessment his Department has made of the availability of veterinary prescription medicines, since the new regulatory arrangements governing supply from Great Britain came into effect on 1 January 2026.","answerText":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines, including any assessment of their availability in Northern Ireland, falls under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines, including any assessment of their availability in Northern Ireland, falls under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039672%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469320","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469320"}},{"id":"469319","reference":"AQW 39671/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-03","answerBy":"2026-02-18","answered":"2026-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether his Department has identified any impacts on animal welfare arising from changes to the supply arrangements for veterinary prescription medicines since 1 January 2026.","answerText":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the Direction and Control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.\n\nI am currently not aware of any impacts on animal welfare arising from changes to the supply arrangements for veterinary prescription medicines since 1 January 2026.","answerHtml":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the Direction and Control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
I am currently not aware of any impacts on animal welfare arising from changes to the supply arrangements for veterinary prescription medicines since 1 January 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039671%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469319","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469319"}},{"id":"469318","reference":"AQW 39670/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-03","answerBy":"2026-02-18","answered":"2026-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any engagement his Department has had with veterinary professionals in Northern Ireland in relation to the operation of the new regulatory arrangements for veterinary medicines since 1 January 2026.","answerText":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland, including the operation of the new regulatory arrangements, falls under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland, including the operation of the new regulatory arrangements, falls under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039670%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469318"}},{"id":"469317","reference":"AQW 39669/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-03","answerBy":"2026-02-18","answered":"2026-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether his Department has made any assessment to changes in the price of veterinary prescription medicines, following the end of the transitional arrangements governing their supply from Great Britain on 31 December 2025.","answerText":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the Direction and Control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the Direction and Control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039669%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469317","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469317"}},{"id":"469316","reference":"AQW 39668/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-03","answerBy":"2026-02-18","answered":"2026-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether his Department has identified any veterinary prescription medicines that are no longer supplied to Northern Ireland, following the end of the transitional arrangements on 31 December 2025.","answerText":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the Direction and Control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In line with the Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024, the supply of veterinary medicines to Northern Ireland falls under the Direction and Control of the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra). Furthermore, the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (an Executive Agency of Defra) is the Competent Authority for veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039668%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469316"}},{"id":"469052","reference":"AQW 39556/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-02","answerBy":"2026-02-17","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she intends to introduce legislative reform to the Private Streets (Northern Ireland) Order 1980, to strengthen (i) enforcement timelines; (ii) bond adequacy requirements; and (iii) protections for residents.","answerText":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.\n\nMy Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.\n\nThe new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.\n\nIt has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.\n\nMy Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.\n\nIn instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.\n\nIf the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.\n\nIf a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.\n\nThere are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.\n\nHouseholders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.\n\nThe contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.\n\nAlthough there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.\n\nMy Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.","answerHtml":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.
My Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.
The new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.
It has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.
My Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.
In instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.
If the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.
If a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.
There are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.
Householders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.
The contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.
Although there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.
My Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039556%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469052"}},{"id":"469051","reference":"AQW 39555/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-02","answerBy":"2026-02-17","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any information the Department makes available to residents living on unadopted private streets, regarding (i) bond status; (ii) enforcement action; and (iii) anticipated timescales for adoption.","answerText":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.\n\nMy Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.\n\nThe new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.\n\nIt has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.\n\nMy Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.\n\nIn instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.\n\nIf the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.\n\nIf a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.\n\nThere are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.\n\nHouseholders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.\n\nThe contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.\n\nAlthough there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.\n\nMy Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.","answerHtml":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.
My Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.
The new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.
It has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.
My Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.
In instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.
If the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.
If a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.
There are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.
Householders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.
The contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.
Although there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.
My Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039555%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469051"}},{"id":"469050","reference":"AQW 39554/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-02","answerBy":"2026-02-17","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether there is a maximum timeframe within which private streets must be brought to adoption standard, under the current legislative framework.","answerText":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.\n\nMy Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.\n\nThe new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.\n\nIt has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.\n\nMy Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.\n\nIn instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.\n\nIf the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.\n\nIf a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.\n\nThere are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.\n\nHouseholders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.\n\nThe contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.\n\nAlthough there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.\n\nMy Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.","answerHtml":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.
My Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.
The new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.
It has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.
My Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.
In instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.
If the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.
If a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.
There are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.
Householders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.
The contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.
Although there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.
My Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039554%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469050"}},{"id":"469049","reference":"AQW 39553/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-02","answerBy":"2026-02-17","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any procedures followed by her Department where, a developer bond for private streets, is no longer sufficient to meet the cost of completing the streets to an adoptable standard.","answerText":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.\n\nMy Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.\n\nThe new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.\n\nIt has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.\n\nMy Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.\n\nIn instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.\n\nIf the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.\n\nIf a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.\n\nThere are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.\n\nHouseholders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.\n\nThe contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.\n\nAlthough there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.\n\nMy Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.","answerHtml":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.
My Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.
The new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.
It has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.
My Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.
In instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.
If the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.
If a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.
There are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.
Householders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.
The contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.
Although there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.
My Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039553%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469049"}},{"id":"469048","reference":"AQW 39552/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-02-02","answerBy":"2026-02-17","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether developer bond values are (i) reviewed; (ii) recalculated; or (iii) index-linked over time, to reflect inflation and rising construction costs.","answerText":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.\n\nMy Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.\n\nThe new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.\n\nIt has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.\n\nMy Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.\n\nIn instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.\n\nIf the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.\n\nIf a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.\n\nThere are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.\n\nHouseholders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.\n\nThe contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.\n\nAlthough there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.\n\nMy Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.","answerHtml":"On the 25th September 2025 I announced the introduction of the new Private Streets Enforcement Guidance. The guidance establishes a threshold for the initiation of enforcement action of 2 years following 80% occupation of houses in a development.
My Department has also published new developer information which amends the bond release thresholds. This change will enable my department to retain a larger proportion of the bond which provide the funds required to bring new developments roads infrastructure to an adoptable standard should enforcement action be necessary.
The new guidance, implemented alongside the changes to the bond release thresholds, will protect homeowners by greatly reducing the risk of new developments remaining unadopted.
It has to be remembered that all private streets sites are the responsibility of the developer until they are formally adopted into the public road network. However, my officials continue to engage with developers and encourage them to complete the sites to the required specification and proceed to adoption.
My Department may consider enforcement when a developer has defaulted through the issuing of a Notice under Article 11 of the Private Streets (NI) Order 1980, outlining the outstanding work, and allowing the developer to take action towards completion of the site within 28 days The developer has a right to appeal under Article 12.
In instances where there is non-compliance with the Article 11 Notice, my Department may take forward the necessary works and recover the costs under the provisions of Article 15 and adopt the road on completion of the work.
If the Developer does not pay costs as detailed in Department's request or the developer is no longer trading, the Article 15 demand is served to the appropriate Bank or Insurance Company acting as surety for payment of costs incurred in bringing the development to an adoptable standard.
If a site is not brought to an adoptable standard by the developer, and the funds in the bond are insufficient to complete the infrastructure to an adoptable standard, my Department is not funded to carry out such works. If the developer is no longer trading, the householders become the responsible person. If householders are willing to, they can pay for the works to compete to an adoptable standard.
There are no time limits under current legislation for a developer to complete a site.
Householders will be aware of the status of a housing development when going through the conveyancing process to purchase a property, through the details on a property certificate. All responsibility for a site, including the time frame to complete construction lies with the developer.
The contents of recent revised enforcement guidance are for the department to issue notices to a developer, 2 years after 80% occupation of a site.
Although there are no immediate plans to amend the legislation, the revised enforcement guidelines and uplift of bond calculation rates greatly enhance the department’s standing on the processing of unadopted private streets.
My Department will continue to communicate with and encourage developers to have sites brought to an adoptable standard at the earliest date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039552%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=469048","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=469048"}},{"id":"468846","reference":"AQW 39466/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-30","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail how the Graduated Driver Licensing proposals will apply to new motorcyclists.","answerText":"Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) will apply to new learner motorcyclists from 1st October 2026. Learning to ride a motorcycle can be enhanced by measures such as the Programme of Training and Logbook, motorway lessons when accompanied by an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) and the removal of the 45mph limit.\n\nMotorcyclists will not be subject to the Mandatory Minimum Learning Period as they must complete Compulsory Basic Training before undertaking the training introduced by GDL.\n\nNewly qualified riders will be required to display the new 2-part ‘R’ plate for two years. Passenger carrying restrictions will not apply to newly qualified riders.\n\nGiven the complexities of age-related progressive access routes to the different categories of motorcycle, I have asked my officials to provide additional information through the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on GDL, published on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) will apply to new learner motorcyclists from 1st October 2026. Learning to ride a motorcycle can be enhanced by measures such as the Programme of Training and Logbook, motorway lessons when accompanied by an Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) and the removal of the 45mph limit.
Motorcyclists will not be subject to the Mandatory Minimum Learning Period as they must complete Compulsory Basic Training before undertaking the training introduced by GDL.
Newly qualified riders will be required to display the new 2-part ‘R’ plate for two years. Passenger carrying restrictions will not apply to newly qualified riders.
Given the complexities of age-related progressive access routes to the different categories of motorcycle, I have asked my officials to provide additional information through the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on GDL, published on the Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039466%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468846","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468846"}},{"id":"468845","reference":"AQW 39465/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-30","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any assessment that has been made of the potential financial impact of the Graduated Driver Licensing scheme on learners and their families, including increased lesson costs and affordability in rural communities.","answerText":"The main cost in learning to drive is the cost of instruction. The introduction of the Mandatory Minimum Learning Period and the Programme of Training will encourage learners to take a steady and progressive path to learning to drive and learner drivers may, as now, still choose to learn to drive with a supervising driver, an approved driving/motorcycle instructor or a combination of both. While the training may require more lessons, depending on the individual, there is no requirement to take paid lessons.\n\nThere will be an additional cost of £17 for the use of the app for the Programme of Training and Logbook.","answerHtml":"The main cost in learning to drive is the cost of instruction. The introduction of the Mandatory Minimum Learning Period and the Programme of Training will encourage learners to take a steady and progressive path to learning to drive and learner drivers may, as now, still choose to learn to drive with a supervising driver, an approved driving/motorcycle instructor or a combination of both. While the training may require more lessons, depending on the individual, there is no requirement to take paid lessons.
There will be an additional cost of £17 for the use of the app for the Programme of Training and Logbook.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039465%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468845","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468845"}},{"id":"468844","reference":"AQW 39464/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-30","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any evidence that underpins the introduction of a minimum mandatory six-month minimum learning period of Graduated Driver Licensing, before a driving test can be taken.","answerText":"The Mandatory Minimum Learning Period (MMLP) of six months is established by the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act (NI) 2016.\n\nIts purpose is to provide learner drivers with sufficient time to progressively and safely develop their knowledge and skills by completing a structured Programme of Training, evidenced through a logbook. When combined with supervised practice, this increases the likelihood that novice learners will encounter night-time driving, poor weather, busy traffic, and other more complex situations, helping them become safer drivers.\n\nResearch supports that an MMLP provides a strong foundation for road safety. Evidence drawn from data, international practice, and policy evaluations indicates that the aim of the learning period is not only to develop technical driving competence but also to support safer behavioural development. This includes building an understanding of attitudes, emotions, and risk. A longer supervised period reinforces good habits, reduces risky behaviours, and importantly, helps ensure a learner’s confidence is more closely aligned with their actual ability.","answerHtml":"The Mandatory Minimum Learning Period (MMLP) of six months is established by the Road Traffic (Amendment) Act (NI) 2016.
Its purpose is to provide learner drivers with sufficient time to progressively and safely develop their knowledge and skills by completing a structured Programme of Training, evidenced through a logbook. When combined with supervised practice, this increases the likelihood that novice learners will encounter night-time driving, poor weather, busy traffic, and other more complex situations, helping them become safer drivers.
Research supports that an MMLP provides a strong foundation for road safety. Evidence drawn from data, international practice, and policy evaluations indicates that the aim of the learning period is not only to develop technical driving competence but also to support safer behavioural development. This includes building an understanding of attitudes, emotions, and risk. A longer supervised period reinforces good habits, reduces risky behaviours, and importantly, helps ensure a learner’s confidence is more closely aligned with their actual ability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039464%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468844","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468844"}},{"id":"468843","reference":"AQW 39463/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-30","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any exemptions that will apply under the Graduated Driver Licensing scheme for new drivers who are required to drive during night-time hours for employment, education or caring responsibilities.","answerText":"New drivers are permitted to drive at night, including for employment, education or caring responsibilities. While doing so, however, night-time passenger restrictions will apply to new drivers for the first six-months after passing their test (drivers only, it does not apply to motorcyclists). New drivers aged 17 to 23 will be restricted from carrying more than one passenger aged 14 to 20, between the hours of 11pm and 6am. There is an exemption for immediate family members or where the driver is entitled to claim carer’s allowance in respect of a passenger.\n\nAdditionally, the passenger restrictions will not apply if there is an accompanying person in the front seat who is aged 21 years or older, and who has held a full driving licence for three years. No other exemptions are provided.","answerHtml":"New drivers are permitted to drive at night, including for employment, education or caring responsibilities. While doing so, however, night-time passenger restrictions will apply to new drivers for the first six-months after passing their test (drivers only, it does not apply to motorcyclists). New drivers aged 17 to 23 will be restricted from carrying more than one passenger aged 14 to 20, between the hours of 11pm and 6am. There is an exemption for immediate family members or where the driver is entitled to claim carer’s allowance in respect of a passenger.
Additionally, the passenger restrictions will not apply if there is an accompanying person in the front seat who is aged 21 years or older, and who has held a full driving licence for three years. No other exemptions are provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039463%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468843"}},{"id":"468842","reference":"AQW 39462/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-30","answerBy":"2026-02-16","answered":"2026-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether the proposed Graduated Driver Licensing restrictions will apply to individuals who already hold a provisional driving licence, prior to the commencement date of the new scheme.","answerText":"There will be a 6-month transitional period after GDL is introduced. Learners with a provisional licence entitlement to drive a category B vehicle that commenced before 1st October 2026 and who pass the practical driving test by 1st April 2027, will be subject to existing restrictions, ie a 45mph speed limit and display of an amber R plate for 12 months.\n\nHowever, if such a learner does not pass a practical driving test by 1st April 2027, they will then be subject to GDL scheme rules.","answerHtml":"There will be a 6-month transitional period after GDL is introduced. Learners with a provisional licence entitlement to drive a category B vehicle that commenced before 1st October 2026 and who pass the practical driving test by 1st April 2027, will be subject to existing restrictions, ie a 45mph speed limit and display of an amber R plate for 12 months.
However, if such a learner does not pass a practical driving test by 1st April 2027, they will then be subject to GDL scheme rules.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039462%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468842"}},{"id":"468677","reference":"AQW 39366/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-29","answerBy":"2026-02-13","answered":"2026-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps her Department has taken to facilitate discussions between (i) Northern Ireland universities; (ii) the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs; and (iii) the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, regarding the establishment of a veterinary medicine degree in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"As autonomous institutions, the universities have discretion to offer any course, including veterinary medicine, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.\n\nHowever, should a proposal be put forward, I am open to working in partnership with all relevant stakeholders to explore the matter.","answerHtml":"As autonomous institutions, the universities have discretion to offer any course, including veterinary medicine, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.
However, should a proposal be put forward, I am open to working in partnership with all relevant stakeholders to explore the matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039366%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468677"}},{"id":"468676","reference":"AQW 39365/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-29","answerBy":"2026-02-13","answered":"2026-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any actions his Department has taken since publication of the January 2022 Strategic Investment Board situational analysis on a veterinary school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Following the publication of the Strategic Investment Board’s (SIB) situational analysis and baseline report in 2022, it was recognised that further work to advance a business case was required and this now rested with the third level educational institutes. To date, whilst both Queen’s University, Belfast and University of Ulster (UU) have voiced an interest in offering a veterinary course, either separately or together, no viable proposals for a veterinary school in NI supported by a funded business case have emerged.\n\nI met with the Vice Chair of the UU to discuss their ambitions including any plans for introducing veterinary related courses in May 2024, and any considerations they had around a veterinary school within NI.\n\nNo further discussions have been sought or undertaken by the third-level institutions with my Department on this matter however, DAERA remain committed, where requested, to discuss with and support educational institutes on relevant aspects related to DAERA’s responsibilities should they seek to progress a business case for a veterinary school in NI.\n\nIn addition, at a meeting with the Working Group for Reform in Veterinary Education in August 2024, the key causes of the challenges facing the veterinary profession were discussed, including the limited numbers of vets studying and qualifying in Ireland.\n\nAfter the announcement in 2024 of two new veterinary schools in Ireland by Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and Charlie McConalogue, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, I raised the issue of student mobility at the North South Ministerial Council so as to allow access to veterinary places offered in Ireland to students coming from NI.\n\nMy Department contacted the Department for the Economy (DfE) in February 2025, who advised that if required they are happy to work closely with DAERA to provide support to the Universities to advance a business case for the establishment of a veterinary school in NI, however they also confirmed that it would not be for the DfE to take a decision on, or to fund, a veterinary school.\n\nTo date, no further actions, other to those outlined above, have been taken by my Department regarding a veterinary school in NI, and no viable proposals supported by a funded business case have emerged from the tertiary education sector.\n\nHowever, Queen’s University, Belfast have recently announced the launch of a BSc (Hons) Veterinary Biosciences degree programme which will be available from September 2026 and will respond to the growing demand for skilled professionals in veterinary science and animal health.\n\nWhilst DAERA is a key employer within the veterinary sector and as such has a vested interest in securing such a talent pipeline, issues around workforce planning for the veterinary sector sits within the remit of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).","answerHtml":"Following the publication of the Strategic Investment Board’s (SIB) situational analysis and baseline report in 2022, it was recognised that further work to advance a business case was required and this now rested with the third level educational institutes. To date, whilst both Queen’s University, Belfast and University of Ulster (UU) have voiced an interest in offering a veterinary course, either separately or together, no viable proposals for a veterinary school in NI supported by a funded business case have emerged.
I met with the Vice Chair of the UU to discuss their ambitions including any plans for introducing veterinary related courses in May 2024, and any considerations they had around a veterinary school within NI.
No further discussions have been sought or undertaken by the third-level institutions with my Department on this matter however, DAERA remain committed, where requested, to discuss with and support educational institutes on relevant aspects related to DAERA’s responsibilities should they seek to progress a business case for a veterinary school in NI.
In addition, at a meeting with the Working Group for Reform in Veterinary Education in August 2024, the key causes of the challenges facing the veterinary profession were discussed, including the limited numbers of vets studying and qualifying in Ireland.
After the announcement in 2024 of two new veterinary schools in Ireland by Patrick O’Donovan, Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, and Charlie McConalogue, Minister for Agriculture, Food and Marine, I raised the issue of student mobility at the North South Ministerial Council so as to allow access to veterinary places offered in Ireland to students coming from NI.
My Department contacted the Department for the Economy (DfE) in February 2025, who advised that if required they are happy to work closely with DAERA to provide support to the Universities to advance a business case for the establishment of a veterinary school in NI, however they also confirmed that it would not be for the DfE to take a decision on, or to fund, a veterinary school.
To date, no further actions, other to those outlined above, have been taken by my Department regarding a veterinary school in NI, and no viable proposals supported by a funded business case have emerged from the tertiary education sector.
However, Queen’s University, Belfast have recently announced the launch of a BSc (Hons) Veterinary Biosciences degree programme which will be available from September 2026 and will respond to the growing demand for skilled professionals in veterinary science and animal health.
Whilst DAERA is a key employer within the veterinary sector and as such has a vested interest in securing such a talent pipeline, issues around workforce planning for the veterinary sector sits within the remit of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039365%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468676"}},{"id":"468172","reference":"AQW 39154/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any oversight arrangements in place to review decisions to establish new Specialist Provision in Mainstream classrooms by the Education Authority,","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that:\n\nThe EA has comprehensive oversight arrangements to review decisions regarding the establishment of new Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools\n\nThe EA maintains internal oversight through its Senior Leadership Team, ensuring that all proposals are subject to thorough scrutiny before progression. This provides an essential first layer of assurance that decisions are evidence-based and aligned with strategic priorities.\n\nAll specialist provision proposals undergo a consultation process over an eight week period, engaging with relevant stakeholders and published on the EA’s consultation page. This ensures that decisions reflect the needs of pupils, families, schools and local communities. EA continues to work with all stakeholders when considering proposals in accordance with the established Framework and Strategic and Operational Plans.\n\nFollowing the consultation process, a consultation report is presented to the EA’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee for approval of Specialist Provisions. This committee-level governance ensures informed and transparent decision-making.\n\nThe EA provides a Statement of Assurance to DE confirming that appropriate consultation has taken place.\n\nThese arrangements collectively ensure that decisions address geographical, sectoral and linguistic inconsistencies whilst responding to growing demand for specialist provision places across the region.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that:
The EA has comprehensive oversight arrangements to review decisions regarding the establishment of new Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools
The EA maintains internal oversight through its Senior Leadership Team, ensuring that all proposals are subject to thorough scrutiny before progression. This provides an essential first layer of assurance that decisions are evidence-based and aligned with strategic priorities.
All specialist provision proposals undergo a consultation process over an eight week period, engaging with relevant stakeholders and published on the EA’s consultation page. This ensures that decisions reflect the needs of pupils, families, schools and local communities. EA continues to work with all stakeholders when considering proposals in accordance with the established Framework and Strategic and Operational Plans.
Following the consultation process, a consultation report is presented to the EA’s Strategic Planning and Policy Committee for approval of Specialist Provisions. This committee-level governance ensures informed and transparent decision-making.
The EA provides a Statement of Assurance to DE confirming that appropriate consultation has taken place.
These arrangements collectively ensure that decisions address geographical, sectoral and linguistic inconsistencies whilst responding to growing demand for specialist provision places across the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039154%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468172","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468172"}},{"id":"468171","reference":"AQW 39153/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the (i) planning; and (ii) allocation, of Specialist Provisions in Mainstream Schools aligns with his Department’s Special Educational Needs Reform Agenda.","answerText":"The Department is committed to ensuring every child with Special Educational Needs (SEN) receives the right support and is placed in the right setting to help them reach their full potential.\n\nThere is clear strategic direction to tackle both the immediate need for SEN placements and the long-term transformation of provision across the education system.\n\nThe planning and allocation of specialist provision classes is guided by EA’s Strategic Area Plan 2022–2027, with Special Schools Plans of Action providing the roadmap for delivering the additional places needed over the coming decade. The Special Schools’ Plans of Action identify the need for over 5,000 additional specialist school places in addition to 6000 specialist provision places over the next decade, and projections show requirements could more than double by 2031/32.\n\nEA’s planning also accounts for a projected decrease in overall pupil numbers against an increase in the number of pupils with SEN and the complexity of their individual needs.\n\nThe need for capital investment, however, continues to grow. Placements in the last two years have required investment of over £109 million, and the Department simply cannot meet this pressure and children’s needs within its existing level of capital funding whilst keeping all schools open and safe.\n\nSecuring adequate investment remains vital to maintain the pace of this transformation and ensure Northern Ireland's education system can effectively support all children to reach their full potential.","answerHtml":"The Department is committed to ensuring every child with Special Educational Needs (SEN) receives the right support and is placed in the right setting to help them reach their full potential.
There is clear strategic direction to tackle both the immediate need for SEN placements and the long-term transformation of provision across the education system.
The planning and allocation of specialist provision classes is guided by EA’s Strategic Area Plan 2022–2027, with Special Schools Plans of Action providing the roadmap for delivering the additional places needed over the coming decade. The Special Schools’ Plans of Action identify the need for over 5,000 additional specialist school places in addition to 6000 specialist provision places over the next decade, and projections show requirements could more than double by 2031/32.
EA’s planning also accounts for a projected decrease in overall pupil numbers against an increase in the number of pupils with SEN and the complexity of their individual needs.
The need for capital investment, however, continues to grow. Placements in the last two years have required investment of over £109 million, and the Department simply cannot meet this pressure and children’s needs within its existing level of capital funding whilst keeping all schools open and safe.
Securing adequate investment remains vital to maintain the pace of this transformation and ensure Northern Ireland's education system can effectively support all children to reach their full potential.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039153%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468171","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468171"}},{"id":"468170","reference":"AQW 39152/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of Specialist Provisions in Mainstream Schools that currently have (i) no pupils; or (ii) significantly fewer pupils than anticipated, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Education Authority has advised that:\n\nThe most recent (2024/5) verified census information including enrolments in specialist provision is available at School enrolment - school level data 2024/25 | Department of Education\n\nWhere pupil numbers are below typical capacity, this may reflect a change in pupil profile or a strategic decision to maintain smaller class sizes to support wellbeing and effective learning. Any remaining available capacity is used by schools for reverse integration to support pupils within mainstream settings and to ensure in-year capacity remains available for those requiring a change of placement or to provide additional capacity for the incoming academic year.\n\nSEN provision is not a \"one size fits all\" model. As pupil needs evolve, demand for certain types of provision may decrease in some areas while increasing in others. The Education Authority continues to respond to these changes to ensure equitable access to education across all council areas.","answerHtml":"Education Authority has advised that:
The most recent (2024/5) verified census information including enrolments in specialist provision is available at School enrolment - school level data 2024/25 | Department of Education
Where pupil numbers are below typical capacity, this may reflect a change in pupil profile or a strategic decision to maintain smaller class sizes to support wellbeing and effective learning. Any remaining available capacity is used by schools for reverse integration to support pupils within mainstream settings and to ensure in-year capacity remains available for those requiring a change of placement or to provide additional capacity for the incoming academic year.
SEN provision is not a "one size fits all" model. As pupil needs evolve, demand for certain types of provision may decrease in some areas while increasing in others. The Education Authority continues to respond to these changes to ensure equitable access to education across all council areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039152%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468170","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468170"}},{"id":"468169","reference":"AQW 39151/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-27","answerBy":"2026-02-11","answered":"2026-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any (i) demand modelling; or (ii) forecasting, undertaken by the Education Authority before approving the establishment of new Specialist Provisions in Mainstream Schools.","answerText":"The Education Authority undertakes both demand modelling and forecasting to inform decisions on establishing new Specialist Provisions in Mainstream Schools.\n\nIn planning for September 2026, forecast figures were derived using assumptions based on historical data, expert insights, and anticipated trends. Current data relating to children with special educational needs, referrals for assessment, and pupils at various stages of the Code of Practice have been considered. This data continues to be reviewed as milestones are reached and pupil mapping is completed.\n\nPlanning assumptions project need in advance of all relevant information becoming available, allowing pressures to be identified early. The modelling accounts for children in transitional year groups, children recommended for placement changes, and new children going through statutory assessment. A key unknown factor remains the type of placement required, identified only through Annual Review or statutory assessment completion.\n\nWhile the overall school-age population is decreasing, the percentage of children with SEN is increasing. The EA is working to create approximately 900 places required for September. New places already in planning, combined with allowances for forecasting variability and demand being met through other means, reduces this by around 500. A shortfall of circa 400 placements remains, particularly across Belfast, Derry City and Strabane, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Lisburn and Castlereagh, Mid Ulster, and North Down and Ards.\n\nWork continues at pace to progress additional projects and assess accommodation solutions.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority undertakes both demand modelling and forecasting to inform decisions on establishing new Specialist Provisions in Mainstream Schools.
In planning for September 2026, forecast figures were derived using assumptions based on historical data, expert insights, and anticipated trends. Current data relating to children with special educational needs, referrals for assessment, and pupils at various stages of the Code of Practice have been considered. This data continues to be reviewed as milestones are reached and pupil mapping is completed.
Planning assumptions project need in advance of all relevant information becoming available, allowing pressures to be identified early. The modelling accounts for children in transitional year groups, children recommended for placement changes, and new children going through statutory assessment. A key unknown factor remains the type of placement required, identified only through Annual Review or statutory assessment completion.
While the overall school-age population is decreasing, the percentage of children with SEN is increasing. The EA is working to create approximately 900 places required for September. New places already in planning, combined with allowances for forecasting variability and demand being met through other means, reduces this by around 500. A shortfall of circa 400 placements remains, particularly across Belfast, Derry City and Strabane, Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon, Lisburn and Castlereagh, Mid Ulster, and North Down and Ards.
Work continues at pace to progress additional projects and assess accommodation solutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039151%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=468169","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=468169"}},{"id":"467951","reference":"AQW 39037/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-26","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department is monitoring the impact of increased Net Annual Values, under Reval2026, on eligibility for Small Business Rates Relief, for pubs and hospitality businesses.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to my oral statement, and the subsequent debate in the Assembly on 2 February, regarding Reval 2026.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to my oral statement, and the subsequent debate in the Assembly on 2 February, regarding Reval 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039037%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467951"}},{"id":"467950","reference":"AQW 39036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-26","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any (i) mitigation; or (ii) transitional arrangements, currently in place to support businesses facing significant increases in rates liability, as a result of Reval2026.","answerText":"I refer the member to my Oral Statement of 2 February 2026 at the link below:-\n\nhttps://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/finance-minister-oral-statement-reval-2026","answerHtml":"I refer the member to my Oral Statement of 2 February 2026 at the link below:-
https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/finance-minister-oral-statement-reval-2026
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467950"}},{"id":"467949","reference":"AQW 39035/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-26","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail how changes in draft Net Annual Values, under Reval2026, for pubs and hospitality premises compare with changes for retail premises.","answerText":"Reval2026 to take stock and allow sectors the space to provide the evidence needed for a full examination of the issues.\n\nMy full statement is available at:\n\nFinance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance\n\nHowever, based on the draft valuation work completed prior to that decision, it is possible to indicate how movements in Net Annual Values (NAVs) for pubs and hospitality premises compared with those for retail properties.\n\nDraft figures show that NAVs for retail properties increased by around 8% overall compared with the 2023 valuation List. In contrast, the hospitality sector showed significantly larger uplifts, with draft NAVs for pubs rising by approximately 47% and hotels by around 84%. These broad percentages are not representative of the changes at individual property level, as the table below demonstrates.\n\nAddress\tClass\t2023 NAV\tDraft 2026 NAV\tPercentage change\nThe Diamond Coleraine\tShop\t£25,100\t£23,500\t-6.37%\nBridge Street Coleraine\tPub\t£8,000\t£10,000\t+25%\n\nThe overall draft outcomes reflected property which had experienced both postpandemic trading recovery and, in some cases, physical extensions or improvements that increased the rateable value of individual properties.","answerHtml":"Reval2026 to take stock and allow sectors the space to provide the evidence needed for a full examination of the issues.
My full statement is available at:
Finance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance
However, based on the draft valuation work completed prior to that decision, it is possible to indicate how movements in Net Annual Values (NAVs) for pubs and hospitality premises compared with those for retail properties.
Draft figures show that NAVs for retail properties increased by around 8% overall compared with the 2023 valuation List. In contrast, the hospitality sector showed significantly larger uplifts, with draft NAVs for pubs rising by approximately 47% and hotels by around 84%. These broad percentages are not representative of the changes at individual property level, as the table below demonstrates.
| Address | Class | 2023 NAV | Draft 2026 NAV | Percentage change |
| The Diamond Coleraine | Shop | £25,100 | £23,500 | -6.37% |
| Bridge Street Coleraine | Pub | £8,000 | £10,000 | +25% |
The overall draft outcomes reflected property which had experienced both postpandemic trading recovery and, in some cases, physical extensions or improvements that increased the rateable value of individual properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467949"}},{"id":"467948","reference":"AQW 39034/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-26","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether operating costs, including energy and staffing costs, are taken into account in the valuation of pubs and hospitality premises, for rates purposes.","answerText":"I can confirm that operating costs, including energy and staffing costs, are taken into account when valuing pubs and other hospitality premises for rates purposes. These properties are assessed using the Receipts and Expenditure (R&E) method, which is the same standard approach across England, Scotland and Wales for sectors where rental values are driven by trading performance rather than physical characteristics.\n\nUnder this method, valuers estimate the Fair Maintainable Trade (FMT) at the statutory valuation date and deduct typical costs of sales and working expenses, including staffing and energy costs, to determine the divisible balance. A proportion of that balance represents the Net Annual Value (NAV), in accordance with Schedule 12 of the Rates (Northern Ireland) Order 1977.\n\nI would direct the Member to my oral statement to the Assembly and subsequent debate in the House on 2 February:\n\nFinance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance\n\nOfficial Reports\n\nI also placed a paper on the Receipts and Expenditure Methodology in the Assembly Library.\n\nDeposited Papers – reference 2034","answerHtml":"I can confirm that operating costs, including energy and staffing costs, are taken into account when valuing pubs and other hospitality premises for rates purposes. These properties are assessed using the Receipts and Expenditure (R&E) method, which is the same standard approach across England, Scotland and Wales for sectors where rental values are driven by trading performance rather than physical characteristics.
Under this method, valuers estimate the Fair Maintainable Trade (FMT) at the statutory valuation date and deduct typical costs of sales and working expenses, including staffing and energy costs, to determine the divisible balance. A proportion of that balance represents the Net Annual Value (NAV), in accordance with Schedule 12 of the Rates (Northern Ireland) Order 1977.
I would direct the Member to my oral statement to the Assembly and subsequent debate in the House on 2 February:
Finance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance
Official Reports
I also placed a paper on the Receipts and Expenditure Methodology in the Assembly Library.
Deposited Papers – reference 2034
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039034%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467948"}},{"id":"467947","reference":"AQW 39033/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-26","answerBy":"2026-02-10","answered":"2026-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any valuation methodologies used by Land and Property Services when assessing pubs, and licensed premises, for the purposes of Reval2026.","answerText":"Land & Property Services uses the industrystandard Receipts and Expenditure (R&E) valuation method to determine the rental value of pubs and licensed premises, reflecting how these properties are let in the real market.\n\nAs set out in my statement to the Assembly of 2 February 2026, I have stopped Reval 2026 in response to the concerns raised by businesses, including those in the hospitality sector, about the implications of proceeding with the draft valuations at this time.\n\nMy full statement is available at:\n\nFinance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance\n\nA paper detailing the Receipts and Expenditure valuation method for valuing licenced premises was deposited in the Assembly Library on 9 February.","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services uses the industrystandard Receipts and Expenditure (R&E) valuation method to determine the rental value of pubs and licensed premises, reflecting how these properties are let in the real market.
As set out in my statement to the Assembly of 2 February 2026, I have stopped Reval 2026 in response to the concerns raised by businesses, including those in the hospitality sector, about the implications of proceeding with the draft valuations at this time.
My full statement is available at:
Finance Minister Oral Statement - Reval 2026 | Department of Finance
A paper detailing the Receipts and Expenditure valuation method for valuing licenced premises was deposited in the Assembly Library on 9 February.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039033%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467947"}},{"id":"467478","reference":"AQW 38816/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-22","answerBy":"2026-02-06","answered":"2026-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will reintroduce a two-year longitudinal dental foundation programme, including a single lead employer model.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency has been exploring options for the potential reintroduction of longitudinal dental training programmes. Any such opportunities will need to be developed in consultation with key stakeholders, including trainees. Consideration will also take into account the longitudinal training pathways currently being piloted in England.\n\nMy officials have recently approved a business case to expand NIMDTA’s educator capacity and to support the modernisation of the dental training programmes for early career dentists.\n\nFoundation Dentists are not included within the existing Single Lead Employer arrangements in Northern Ireland; however, this may be considered should these arrangements be expanded to other areas in the future.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency has been exploring options for the potential reintroduction of longitudinal dental training programmes. Any such opportunities will need to be developed in consultation with key stakeholders, including trainees. Consideration will also take into account the longitudinal training pathways currently being piloted in England.
My officials have recently approved a business case to expand NIMDTA’s educator capacity and to support the modernisation of the dental training programmes for early career dentists.
Foundation Dentists are not included within the existing Single Lead Employer arrangements in Northern Ireland; however, this may be considered should these arrangements be expanded to other areas in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038816%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467478","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467478"}},{"id":"467477","reference":"AQW 38815/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-22","answerBy":"2026-02-06","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps that are being taken to address the limited exposure to Community Dental Services among newly qualified dentists.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038815%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467477","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467477"}},{"id":"467476","reference":"AQW 38814/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-22","answerBy":"2026-02-06","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any action he is taking to ensure people at the end of life are not required to wait three months to access the limited capability for work-related activity element of Universal Credit.","answerText":"I can confirm that benefit claimants who advise of an end of life condition where they have 12 months or less to live, and provide supporting medical evidence, are not required to serve the relevant waiting period for payments of Limited Capability for Work and Work Related Activity on Universal Credit. Further information is available at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you-have-health-condition-or-disability","answerHtml":"I can confirm that benefit claimants who advise of an end of life condition where they have 12 months or less to live, and provide supporting medical evidence, are not required to serve the relevant waiting period for payments of Limited Capability for Work and Work Related Activity on Universal Credit. Further information is available at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-if-you-have-health-condition-or-disability
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038814%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467476","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467476"}},{"id":"467475","reference":"AQW 38813/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-22","answerBy":"2026-02-06","answered":"2026-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans in place to secure the long-term future of Sandelford School, Coleraine.","answerText":"The school enhancement project at Sandelford continues to progress. The original business case was approved by my Department in January 2024. However, following my removal of the funding threshold for school enhancement projects in April 2024, the scope of this project has now been expanded.\n\nThe initial scheme would have delivered two general classrooms, four specialist classrooms, and the removal of outdated mobile accommodation. The expanded project will now provide an additional four classrooms, ancillary accommodation, and enhanced school meal facilities. The project is currently expected to complete by September 2028, at which point the site will be at capacity.\n\nThe long-term plan for the school is therefore the expansion of the school on a new site to provide places for up to 150 pupils. Work is underway to identify available and suitable sites. However, I must emphasise that both the current project and the longterm development plan are entirely dependent on the availability of capital funding.\n\nOn 9 September 2025, I circulated a draft Executive Paper to other Ministers outlining that my department’s existing capital budget cannot absorb the £1.7 billion required over the next decade to deliver more than 6,000 new special school places and over 500 specialist provisions in mainstream settings. That paper set out proposals for a flagship, Executive-led and Executive-funded Special Educational Needs (SEN) capital investment programme.\n\nI am deeply disappointed that we have not yet had the opportunity for a meaningful Executive discussion on these proposals and I am even more concerned that the draft budget fails to ring-fence any funding for SEN capital investment, despite the scale and urgency of the need.\n\nI will continue to emphasise the need for cross-party support for my proposals to ensure that the long-term plans for Sandelford, and all special schools can be delivered.","answerHtml":"The school enhancement project at Sandelford continues to progress. The original business case was approved by my Department in January 2024. However, following my removal of the funding threshold for school enhancement projects in April 2024, the scope of this project has now been expanded.
The initial scheme would have delivered two general classrooms, four specialist classrooms, and the removal of outdated mobile accommodation. The expanded project will now provide an additional four classrooms, ancillary accommodation, and enhanced school meal facilities. The project is currently expected to complete by September 2028, at which point the site will be at capacity.
The long-term plan for the school is therefore the expansion of the school on a new site to provide places for up to 150 pupils. Work is underway to identify available and suitable sites. However, I must emphasise that both the current project and the longterm development plan are entirely dependent on the availability of capital funding.
On 9 September 2025, I circulated a draft Executive Paper to other Ministers outlining that my department’s existing capital budget cannot absorb the £1.7 billion required over the next decade to deliver more than 6,000 new special school places and over 500 specialist provisions in mainstream settings. That paper set out proposals for a flagship, Executive-led and Executive-funded Special Educational Needs (SEN) capital investment programme.
I am deeply disappointed that we have not yet had the opportunity for a meaningful Executive discussion on these proposals and I am even more concerned that the draft budget fails to ring-fence any funding for SEN capital investment, despite the scale and urgency of the need.
I will continue to emphasise the need for cross-party support for my proposals to ensure that the long-term plans for Sandelford, and all special schools can be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038813%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467475","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467475"}},{"id":"467249","reference":"AQW 38711/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-21","answerBy":"2026-02-05","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment undertaken to determine whether Relationship and Sexuality Education is contributing to a reduction in harmful attitudes or behaviours towards women and girls, among pupils.","answerText":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38707/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.\n\nKey areas include:\n\nConsent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.\n\nDomestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.\n\nHealthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.\n\nInternet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.\n\nThe CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.\n\nCoercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.\n\nWith support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38709/22-27)\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)","answerHtml":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38707/22-27)
CCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.
Key areas include:
Consent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.
Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.
Healthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.
Internet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.
The CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.
Coercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)
CCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.
With support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38709/22-27)
No assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038711%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467249","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467249"}},{"id":"467248","reference":"AQW 38710/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-21","answerBy":"2026-02-05","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how Relationship and Sexuality Education addresses (i) online sexual harassment; (ii) image-based abuse; and (iii) misogynistic content, encountered by young people on social media.","answerText":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38707/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.\n\nKey areas include:\n\nConsent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.\n\nDomestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.\n\nHealthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.\n\nInternet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.\n\nThe CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.\n\nCoercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.\n\nWith support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38709/22-27)\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)","answerHtml":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38707/22-27)
CCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.
Key areas include:
Consent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.
Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.
Healthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.
Internet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.
The CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.
Coercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)
CCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.
With support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38709/22-27)
No assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038710%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467248","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467248"}},{"id":"467247","reference":"AQW 38709/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-21","answerBy":"2026-02-05","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any training provided to teachers specifically to deliver Relationships and Sexuality Education on issues including consent, sexual harassment and gender-based violence.","answerText":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38707/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.\n\nKey areas include:\n\nConsent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.\n\nDomestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.\n\nHealthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.\n\nInternet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.\n\nThe CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.\n\nCoercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.\n\nWith support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38709/22-27)\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)","answerHtml":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38707/22-27)
CCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.
Key areas include:
Consent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.
Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.
Healthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.
Internet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.
The CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.
Coercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)
CCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.
With support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38709/22-27)
No assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038709%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467247"}},{"id":"467246","reference":"AQW 38708/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-21","answerBy":"2026-02-05","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps his Department will take to strengthen Relationships and Sexuality Education, in order to better address (i) misogyny; (ii) sexual harassment; and (iii) coercive control.","answerText":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38707/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.\n\nKey areas include:\n\nConsent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.\n\nDomestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.\n\nHealthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.\n\nInternet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.\n\nThe CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.\n\nCoercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.\n\nWith support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38709/22-27)\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)","answerHtml":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38707/22-27)
CCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.
Key areas include:
Consent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.
Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.
Healthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.
Internet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.
The CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.
Coercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)
CCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.
With support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38709/22-27)
No assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038708%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467246","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467246"}},{"id":"467245","reference":"AQW 38707/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-21","answerBy":"2026-02-05","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any mechanisms in place to ensure consistent delivery of Relationships and Sexuality Education across all schools, particularly in relation to content on violence against women and girls.","answerText":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38707/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.\n\nKey areas include:\n\nConsent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.\n\nDomestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.\n\nHealthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.\n\nInternet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.\n\nThe CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.\n\nCoercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)\n\nCCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.\n\nWith support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.\n\n(AQW 38709/22-27)\n\nNo assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)","answerHtml":"The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) evaluates the quality of Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) in schools. Council for the Curriculum Examinations and Assessment (CCEA)’s RSE Hub provides free, highquality resources, including materials on violence against women and girls. The nonstatutory CCEA RSE Progression Framework offers a pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining appropriate topics for each Key Stage and directing schools to further guidance. It also includes information on domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38707/22-27)
CCEA provides a wide range of ageappropriate RSE resources which includes lesson plans, activities and short films to support a preventative curriculum. These cover topics such as violence against women and girls (VAWG), domestic and sexual abuse, coercive control, online harassment and misogyny, and are available on the CCEA RSE Hub.
Key areas include:
Consent:Six postprimary units explore communication, decisionmaking, risk, myths, misogyny, gender stereotypes, and the consequences of nonconsensual behaviour.
Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse:Eight units cover types of abuse, its impact, online abuse, the law, VAWG (including SEN), and the Active Bystander approach. A new unit on upskirting, downblousing, cyberflashing and sextortion will be added, with further units on male victims and masculinity in development.
Healthy Relationships:Resources help pupils recognise positive, unhealthy and romantic relationships, set boundaries, understand responsibilities, and gender issues in relationships.
Internet Safety:Materials support teaching about online risks and how to protect yourself online, challenging harmful behaviour, and relevant laws. Topics include cyberbullying, sexting and the impact of pornography, with cyberflashing and sextortion addressed in the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse section.
The CCEA RSE Progression Framework provides a nonstatutory pathway from Foundation Stage to post16, outlining suitable topics, including Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and VAWG. It also links to the Department of Health’s Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and The Executive Office’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.
Coercive control is addressed at Key Stage 4 and revisited post16.(AQW 38708/22-27 & AQW 38710/22-27)
CCEA provides webinars to support teachers, featuring expertise from organisations working in domestic violence, consent and online abuse.
With support through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy Programme fund 2025/26, CCEA is currently working with my Department to plan an event for school leaders in March 2026. The event is aimed at highlighting the role of leadership in embedding a whole school approach to tackling this issue at a school level through the promotion of healthy relationships, alongside showcasing best practice to shape and inform interventions that can be of use to schools when addressing these key issues of relationships, consent, sexual violence and abuse.
(AQW 38709/22-27)
No assessment has been undertaken by my Department; however, as part of Northern Ireland Executive strategy on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, The Executive Office may undertake monitoring to fully understand the impact on attitudes over time and to determine whether there has been a reduction in harmful behaviour as part of the overall strategy. (AQW 38711/22-27)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038707%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467245"}},{"id":"467024","reference":"AQW 38587/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 31507/22-27, to detail any interim measures in place to reduce the number of families with children in unsuitable, or hotel-style, temporary accommodation, while the planned 600 units are being acquired over a four-year period.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to addressing the supply and demand for temporary accommodation, including seeking to reduce the number of families with children in non-standard temporary accommodation, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found here: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/0d1aee01-f02c-40d6-b95b-a58c7213c2c0/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf\n\nAs a result of this work, approximately 324 self-contained properties have been added to the Housing Executive’s portfolio this financial year.\n\nThe Housing Executive seeks to avoid placing families with children in non-standard temporary accommodation for more than two weeks and will identify alternative options at the earliest possible opportunity. The majority of families with children are placed in ‘own front door accommodation’ such as Single Lets, with approximately 97% of children in temporary accommodation living in such placements.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to addressing the supply and demand for temporary accommodation, including seeking to reduce the number of families with children in non-standard temporary accommodation, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found here: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/0d1aee01-f02c-40d6-b95b-a58c7213c2c0/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf
As a result of this work, approximately 324 self-contained properties have been added to the Housing Executive’s portfolio this financial year.
The Housing Executive seeks to avoid placing families with children in non-standard temporary accommodation for more than two weeks and will identify alternative options at the earliest possible opportunity. The majority of families with children are placed in ‘own front door accommodation’ such as Single Lets, with approximately 97% of children in temporary accommodation living in such placements.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038587%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467024"}},{"id":"467023","reference":"AQW 38586/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any current (i) targets; (ii) timescales; and (iii) funding commitments, to increase the supply of social and genuinely affordable homes throughout East Londonderry.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive is committed to addressing housing need in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency through support for the provision of affordable housing including social rented housing delivered by housing associations via the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).\n\nThe Housing Executive carries out Housing Need Assessments (HNAs) on an annual basis. The total social housing need projection for the period 2024-29, based on HNA areas in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency, is 1,432 units.\n\nMuch of the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency falls within Causeway Coast and Glens Council. Currently, the Housing Executive is seeking a quota of social housing (a minimum of 20%) on residential sites in areas of social need across the Borough, as facilitated by Policy HOU2 of the Northern Area Plan 2016.\n\nA smaller area of the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency falls with Derry City and Strabane District Council (DC&SDC), the Housing Executive is seeking a quota of affordable housing (a minimum of 20%) on residential sites in areas of social need across the Borough, as facilitated by Policy HOU5 of the DC&SDC Local Development Plan ‘Plan Strategy’.\n\nThis will help to increase housing supply and support sustainable communities.\n\nIn the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency:\n\nThere have been 35 new social housing completions to-date in 2025/26.\n\nThere are currently 253 social housing units under construction.\n\nThere are 458 social housing units programmed to start as part of the SHDP 2025/26 – 2027/28:\n\n102 units programmed to start in 2025/26.\n\n314 units programmed to start in 2026/27.\n\n42 units programmed to start in 2027/28.\n\nFunding is available to support the delivery of 1,750 new social housing starts across Northern Ireland via the SHDP in the 2025/26 programme year, including the 102 units programmed to start in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency.”\n\nMore widely the Executive Housing Supply Strategy has an ambition to deliver 100,000 homes in NI over 15 years, of which a third should be social. Local Councils are responsible for considering their own affordable housing needs for their areas, in conjunction with NIHE place shaping teams, through the development and delivery of Local Development Plans.\n\nI continue to help people into home ownership and last year, I announced a further £153M in funding for Co-Ownership to support 4,000 people in buying a home over the next 4 years through its Co-Own product.\n\nAll Co-Ownership products operate on a “DIYSO” (Do It Yourself Shared Ownership) basis where customers can select a home of their choice anywhere in Northern Ireland up to the property value limit of £210,000.\n\nIn East Londonderry there were 30 Co-Ownership completions in 2024/25 and 23 completions between April 2025 and September 2025.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive is committed to addressing housing need in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency through support for the provision of affordable housing including social rented housing delivered by housing associations via the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).
The Housing Executive carries out Housing Need Assessments (HNAs) on an annual basis. The total social housing need projection for the period 2024-29, based on HNA areas in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency, is 1,432 units.
Much of the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency falls within Causeway Coast and Glens Council. Currently, the Housing Executive is seeking a quota of social housing (a minimum of 20%) on residential sites in areas of social need across the Borough, as facilitated by Policy HOU2 of the Northern Area Plan 2016.
A smaller area of the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency falls with Derry City and Strabane District Council (DC&SDC), the Housing Executive is seeking a quota of affordable housing (a minimum of 20%) on residential sites in areas of social need across the Borough, as facilitated by Policy HOU5 of the DC&SDC Local Development Plan ‘Plan Strategy’.
This will help to increase housing supply and support sustainable communities.
In the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency:
There have been 35 new social housing completions to-date in 2025/26.
There are currently 253 social housing units under construction.
There are 458 social housing units programmed to start as part of the SHDP 2025/26 – 2027/28:
102 units programmed to start in 2025/26.
314 units programmed to start in 2026/27.
42 units programmed to start in 2027/28.
Funding is available to support the delivery of 1,750 new social housing starts across Northern Ireland via the SHDP in the 2025/26 programme year, including the 102 units programmed to start in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency.”
More widely the Executive Housing Supply Strategy has an ambition to deliver 100,000 homes in NI over 15 years, of which a third should be social. Local Councils are responsible for considering their own affordable housing needs for their areas, in conjunction with NIHE place shaping teams, through the development and delivery of Local Development Plans.
I continue to help people into home ownership and last year, I announced a further £153M in funding for Co-Ownership to support 4,000 people in buying a home over the next 4 years through its Co-Own product.
All Co-Ownership products operate on a “DIYSO” (Do It Yourself Shared Ownership) basis where customers can select a home of their choice anywhere in Northern Ireland up to the property value limit of £210,000.
In East Londonderry there were 30 Co-Ownership completions in 2024/25 and 23 completions between April 2025 and September 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038586%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467023"}},{"id":"467022","reference":"AQW 38585/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any guidance issued to the Housing Executive on ensuring that temporary accommodation placements for households with children are, as far as practicable, close to schools, childcare, employment and family support networks.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The decision regarding the suitability of temporary accommodation offered in the discharge of the homelessness duty is made in accordance with the Housing (NI) Order 1988.\n\nIn determining suitability, Designated Officers within the Housing Executive will consider individual circumstances, the needs of the applicant, and will take on board any representation made on behalf of the applicant. The consideration of individual circumstances will include proximity to schools, childcare, employment and family support networks. The Housing Executive will then seek to provide a placement in a location that best fits the circumstances of that applicant.”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The decision regarding the suitability of temporary accommodation offered in the discharge of the homelessness duty is made in accordance with the Housing (NI) Order 1988.
In determining suitability, Designated Officers within the Housing Executive will consider individual circumstances, the needs of the applicant, and will take on board any representation made on behalf of the applicant. The consideration of individual circumstances will include proximity to schools, childcare, employment and family support networks. The Housing Executive will then seek to provide a placement in a location that best fits the circumstances of that applicant.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038585%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467022"}},{"id":"467021","reference":"AQW 38584/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average length of time households spend in temporary accommodation in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) the Causeway Coast and Glens area.","answerText":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April - September 2025 contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2025.\n\nSection 3 provides data on households in temporary accommodation including current placements by banded length of stay and accommodation type (Table 3.5).\n\nI am unable to provide this information by Council area although Table 3.2A details the number of placements by Council area.","answerHtml":"The biannual Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin April - September 2025 contains information on a range of areas relating to homelessness and is available at: https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-homelessness-bulletin-april-september-2025.
Section 3 provides data on households in temporary accommodation including current placements by banded length of stay and accommodation type (Table 3.5).
I am unable to provide this information by Council area although Table 3.2A details the number of placements by Council area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038584%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467021","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467021"}},{"id":"467020","reference":"AQW 38583/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-20","answerBy":"2026-02-04","answered":"2026-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment his Department has made of the extent to which landlord sales of private rented properties are contributing to homelessness presentations.","answerText":"My Department has not undertaken an assessment of the extent to which landlord sales of private rented properties are contributing to homelessness presentations.\n\nAccording to the Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin, of the 8,217 households who presented as homeless between April to September 2025, the ‘loss of rented accommodation’ accounted for 1,197 (14.6%) cases.\n\nThe most common reason for presentation was ‘accommodation not reasonable’ with 1,866 (22.7%), followed by ‘sharing breakdown/family dispute’ with 1,777 (21.6%).","answerHtml":"My Department has not undertaken an assessment of the extent to which landlord sales of private rented properties are contributing to homelessness presentations.
According to the Northern Ireland Homelessness Bulletin, of the 8,217 households who presented as homeless between April to September 2025, the ‘loss of rented accommodation’ accounted for 1,197 (14.6%) cases.
The most common reason for presentation was ‘accommodation not reasonable’ with 1,866 (22.7%), followed by ‘sharing breakdown/family dispute’ with 1,777 (21.6%).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038583%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=467020","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=467020"}},{"id":"466652","reference":"AQW 38380/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-16","answerBy":"2026-02-02","answered":"2026-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of private ambulance providers that are contracted by the health and social care system; and (ii) the amount that private ambulance provision has cost, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Independent Ambulance Services (IAS) are procured by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) through a regionally agreed Framework Agreement administered by the Business Services Organisation’s Procurement and Logistics Service (PaLs).\n\nThe Framework Agreement was implemented in November 2023 following a regional tendering process involving NIAS and all five Health and Social Care Trusts. IAS providers support scheduled care services and loweracuity unscheduled care through a nonemergency framework.\n\nThere are currently 15 IAS providers contracted under this framework.\n\nThe cost to NIAS of IAS provision (after recharges to other Trusts) in each of the last three years is shown below.\n\nTable 1\n\nYear\tCost\n2022-23\t£ 8,883,674\n2023-24\t£ 7,098,477\n2024-25\t£ 9,917,540\n\nIndependent providers are primarily used for nonemergency patient transport, which helps protect NIAS urgent and emergency care resources. Work is ongoing with my Department to reduce dependence on this provision through the development of updated eligibility criteria for nonemergency transport.","answerHtml":"Independent Ambulance Services (IAS) are procured by the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) through a regionally agreed Framework Agreement administered by the Business Services Organisation’s Procurement and Logistics Service (PaLs).
The Framework Agreement was implemented in November 2023 following a regional tendering process involving NIAS and all five Health and Social Care Trusts. IAS providers support scheduled care services and loweracuity unscheduled care through a nonemergency framework.
There are currently 15 IAS providers contracted under this framework.
The cost to NIAS of IAS provision (after recharges to other Trusts) in each of the last three years is shown below.
Table 1
| Year | Cost |
| 2022-23 | £ 8,883,674 |
| 2023-24 | £ 7,098,477 |
| 2024-25 | £ 9,917,540 |
Independent providers are primarily used for nonemergency patient transport, which helps protect NIAS urgent and emergency care resources. Work is ongoing with my Department to reduce dependence on this provision through the development of updated eligibility criteria for nonemergency transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038380%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466652"}},{"id":"466651","reference":"AQW 38379/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-16","answerBy":"2026-02-02","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will introduce a 24/7 urgent care triage service, similar to NHS 111, across all Health and Social Care Trusts to reduce pressure on ambulances and Emergency Departments.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038379%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466651"}},{"id":"466650","reference":"AQW 38378/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-16","answerBy":"2026-02-02","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) whether measures such as (a) Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officers; (b) rapid handover protocols; and (c) cohorting areas, are being used consistently in Emergency Departments; and (ii) any plans in place to ensure their effective implementation.","answerText":"Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officers (HALOs) have a key interface role between the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) and Trusts ensuring good communication and helping to expedite patient handover. In the largest emergency departments (EDs) - the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH), Ulster, Antrim, Craigavon and Altnagelvin Hospitals - NIAS provide HALO cover on Monday to Friday from 7.00am to 11.00pm (16 hours), and either 7.00am to 7.00pm or 9.00am to 9.00pm (12 hours) Saturdays and Sundays. HALOs located at these sites also provide oversight of smaller sites in each of the respective Trusts. There will be periods where, from an operational perspective, NIAS are not always able to provide a HALO presence on the hospital sites. When this happens, NIAS will work to provide other cover through station managers and the NIAS control room. NIAS and the Trusts also join daily calls seven days a week, and the Regional Control Centre (RCC) manages any interface issues, dealing with them in a timely manner.\n\nRegional Ambulance Handover Protocols aim to ensure a standardised, safe and efficient transfer of patient care from ambulance crews to ED clinical staff, minimising delays and associated risks to patient outcomes and ambulance service capacity.\n\nThe national standard for ambulance handover states that patients arriving by ambulance should be handed over to ED staff within 15 minutes, with the ambulance cleared and ready to respond within a further 15 minutes. Any handover that exceeds 15 minutes is considered a delay.\n\nReducing handover delays is a critical priority, given the direct impact on the NIAS’ ability to respond to emergency calls in the community.\n\nIn August 2025, my Department held a regional workshop with senior management and clinicians from Trusts and NIAS, focusing on improving ambulance handover times. Input was provided from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital in London, where they have been successful in reducing ambulance handover delays.\n\nMy Department is working with NIAS and the Trusts to finalise the ambulance handover guidance/protocol for Northern Ireland, based on the experience of other ambulance services including the London Ambulance Service.\n\nIn order to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:\n\nThe expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;\n\nAdditional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;\n\nFrailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;\n\nExpansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and,\n\nEnhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.\n\nUltimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing ambulance handover times and congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times. These efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.\n\nThe cohorting of patients in ED should not be seen as normal business in response to ambulance delays outside EDs and should only be considered as an exceptional escalation measure, in line with Trusts’ escalation plans when discharge opportunities have been exhausted. Ambulance handover zones are in place in each of the major EDs (RVH, Antrim, Ulster, Craigavon, Altnagelvin) and are operational 24/7.\n\nIn addition to the operational calls every day between the RCC, NIAS and the provider Trusts, there are discussions every two weeks providing oversight of the measures which have been put in place to ensure their effective implementation.\n\nPerformance against the ambulance handover standards is also overseen by my Department as part of the HSC Support and Intervention Framework. Whilst the improvement trajectories for ambulance handover have not yet been met across all hospital sites, in December 2025, several hospitals demonstrated strong performance against the 2hour threshold, with less than 20% of ambulance arrivals delayed over two hours. This included the Mater (8%), South West Acute Hospital (10%), Altnagelvin (13%), Daisy Hill (15%), and the Royal Victoria Hospital (16%), reflecting focused efforts to improve patient flow and reduce prolonged waits. Work will continue with Trusts and NIAS to deliver improved handover times.","answerHtml":"Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officers (HALOs) have a key interface role between the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) and Trusts ensuring good communication and helping to expedite patient handover. In the largest emergency departments (EDs) - the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH), Ulster, Antrim, Craigavon and Altnagelvin Hospitals - NIAS provide HALO cover on Monday to Friday from 7.00am to 11.00pm (16 hours), and either 7.00am to 7.00pm or 9.00am to 9.00pm (12 hours) Saturdays and Sundays. HALOs located at these sites also provide oversight of smaller sites in each of the respective Trusts. There will be periods where, from an operational perspective, NIAS are not always able to provide a HALO presence on the hospital sites. When this happens, NIAS will work to provide other cover through station managers and the NIAS control room. NIAS and the Trusts also join daily calls seven days a week, and the Regional Control Centre (RCC) manages any interface issues, dealing with them in a timely manner.
Regional Ambulance Handover Protocols aim to ensure a standardised, safe and efficient transfer of patient care from ambulance crews to ED clinical staff, minimising delays and associated risks to patient outcomes and ambulance service capacity.
The national standard for ambulance handover states that patients arriving by ambulance should be handed over to ED staff within 15 minutes, with the ambulance cleared and ready to respond within a further 15 minutes. Any handover that exceeds 15 minutes is considered a delay.
Reducing handover delays is a critical priority, given the direct impact on the NIAS’ ability to respond to emergency calls in the community.
In August 2025, my Department held a regional workshop with senior management and clinicians from Trusts and NIAS, focusing on improving ambulance handover times. Input was provided from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital in London, where they have been successful in reducing ambulance handover delays.
My Department is working with NIAS and the Trusts to finalise the ambulance handover guidance/protocol for Northern Ireland, based on the experience of other ambulance services including the London Ambulance Service.
In order to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:
The expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;
Additional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;
Frailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;
Expansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and,
Enhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.
Ultimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout the hospital, reducing ambulance handover times and congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times. These efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.
The cohorting of patients in ED should not be seen as normal business in response to ambulance delays outside EDs and should only be considered as an exceptional escalation measure, in line with Trusts’ escalation plans when discharge opportunities have been exhausted. Ambulance handover zones are in place in each of the major EDs (RVH, Antrim, Ulster, Craigavon, Altnagelvin) and are operational 24/7.
In addition to the operational calls every day between the RCC, NIAS and the provider Trusts, there are discussions every two weeks providing oversight of the measures which have been put in place to ensure their effective implementation.
Performance against the ambulance handover standards is also overseen by my Department as part of the HSC Support and Intervention Framework. Whilst the improvement trajectories for ambulance handover have not yet been met across all hospital sites, in December 2025, several hospitals demonstrated strong performance against the 2hour threshold, with less than 20% of ambulance arrivals delayed over two hours. This included the Mater (8%), South West Acute Hospital (10%), Altnagelvin (13%), Daisy Hill (15%), and the Royal Victoria Hospital (16%), reflecting focused efforts to improve patient flow and reduce prolonged waits. Work will continue with Trusts and NIAS to deliver improved handover times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038378%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466650"}},{"id":"466649","reference":"AQW 38377/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-16","answerBy":"2026-02-02","answered":"2026-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of ambulance staff vacancies; and (ii) the number of ambulance operational hours that were lost due to hospital handover delays, in the last 12 months;, and (iii) any plans in place to reduce this figure.","answerText":"I acknowledge the outstanding dedication of staff in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS). These professionals deliver a high-quality service under extremely challenging circumstances, often supporting people at the most critical moments of their lives.\n\nMy Department is working with NIAS to ensure sufficient ambulance and staffing capacity to meet Category 1 and Category 2 response time standards. An independent review of the NIAS Clinical Capacity and Demand has just been completed, and this will inform the service model in the future. NIAS are finalising an implementation plan, and some of the key strands - including the development of the advanced paramedic role - have already commenced, with the first 15 staff having started their training in Autumn 2025. As part of this commitment, my Department has increased the number of paramedics on the Degree Programme from 50 to 65.\n\nThe number of current NIAS staff vacancies, as at 23 January 2025, is shown below.\n\nTable 1\n\nGrade\nDivision\tParamedic\tEMT\tTotal Emergency Vacancies\tACA\tTotal\nBelfast\t10.48\t8.76\t19.24\t15.20\t53.68\nNorthern\t-1.29\t14.52\t13.23\t5.00\t31.46\nSouthern\t2.67\t10\t12.67\t14.72\t40.06\nWestern\t2.02\t5.49\t7.51\t3.40\t18.42\nSouth Eastern\t19.56\t22.25\t41.81\t3.47\t87.09\nNIAS\t33.44\t61.02\t94.46\t41.79\t136.25\n\nThe number of lost operational hours, due to handover delays, for the period 1 January 2025 – 31 December 2025 (12 months) is shown in the table below.\n\nTable 2\n\nAmbulance Handover Delays\nDate\tLost Hours\nJan-25\t13290\nFeb-25\t10075\nMar-25\t9499\nApr-25\t9555\nMay-25\t10366\nJun-25\t9852\nJul-25\t9995\nAug-25\t9497\nSep-25\t10131\nOct-25\t11303\nNov-25\t10463\nDec-25\t11847\n2025 Total\t125872\n\nReducing ambulance handover delays at emergency departments (EDs) is a key priority due to the impact on NIAS’ ability to respond to calls in the community. The importance of timely ambulance responses was highlighted in the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Review of Emergency Medicine.\n\nAverage and longest ambulance handover waits were lower in 2025/26. It should be acknowledged that there was an early and significant flu season with cases starting to increase in November 2025 and peaking in the first week of December. Flu cases remained high throughout December with episodes higher than 2024/25. Seasonal peaks in respiratory illness will inevitably place additional pressure on hospitals.\n\nVaccination rates, especially for those over the age of 65 (72.4%) and in care homes (79.3%) were good. Additional support has also been provided to care homes by Trusts in the administration of antivirals to residents where flu outbreaks occurred. This intervention is aimed at reducing admissions from care homes.\n\nAmbulance handover delays are influenced by system-wide pressures, particularly during periods of high demand. The recent flu surge contributed to increased hospital admissions and reduced bed availability, which in turn affected the ability to offload patients promptly at EDs.\n\nReducing ambulance handover delays is a key priority for my Department, as prolonged delays impact NIAS’ capacity to respond to calls in the community. To address this, my Department and the Trusts have implemented a range of measures, including:\n\nNew ambulance handover guidance is being developed with Trusts and NIAS, aiming to eliminate delays exceeding two hours and progressively reduce shorter thresholds;\n\nTargeted investment to improve patient flow, including additional short-stay and intermediate care beds, expansion of Same Day Emergency Care pathways, and enhanced discharge coordination;\n\nHospital at Home services and community-based care initiatives to reduce admissions and free up capacity in acute hospitals; and,\n\nAn integrated clinical hub within NIAS to provide clinical triage and alternative care pathways, reducing unnecessary conveyances to EDs.\n\nThese actions are part of a wider Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan designed to improve system flow and ensure timely access to emergency care.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the outstanding dedication of staff in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS). These professionals deliver a high-quality service under extremely challenging circumstances, often supporting people at the most critical moments of their lives.
My Department is working with NIAS to ensure sufficient ambulance and staffing capacity to meet Category 1 and Category 2 response time standards. An independent review of the NIAS Clinical Capacity and Demand has just been completed, and this will inform the service model in the future. NIAS are finalising an implementation plan, and some of the key strands - including the development of the advanced paramedic role - have already commenced, with the first 15 staff having started their training in Autumn 2025. As part of this commitment, my Department has increased the number of paramedics on the Degree Programme from 50 to 65.
The number of current NIAS staff vacancies, as at 23 January 2025, is shown below.
Table 1
| Grade | |||||
| Division | Paramedic | EMT | Total Emergency Vacancies | ACA | Total |
| Belfast | 10.48 | 8.76 | 19.24 | 15.20 | 53.68 |
| Northern | -1.29 | 14.52 | 13.23 | 5.00 | 31.46 |
| Southern | 2.67 | 10 | 12.67 | 14.72 | 40.06 |
| Western | 2.02 | 5.49 | 7.51 | 3.40 | 18.42 |
| South Eastern | 19.56 | 22.25 | 41.81 | 3.47 | 87.09 |
| NIAS | 33.44 | 61.02 | 94.46 | 41.79 | 136.25 |
The number of lost operational hours, due to handover delays, for the period 1 January 2025 – 31 December 2025 (12 months) is shown in the table below.
Table 2
| Ambulance Handover Delays | |
| Date | Lost Hours |
| Jan-25 | 13290 |
| Feb-25 | 10075 |
| Mar-25 | 9499 |
| Apr-25 | 9555 |
| May-25 | 10366 |
| Jun-25 | 9852 |
| Jul-25 | 9995 |
| Aug-25 | 9497 |
| Sep-25 | 10131 |
| Oct-25 | 11303 |
| Nov-25 | 10463 |
| Dec-25 | 11847 |
| 2025 Total | 125872 |
Reducing ambulance handover delays at emergency departments (EDs) is a key priority due to the impact on NIAS’ ability to respond to calls in the community. The importance of timely ambulance responses was highlighted in the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Review of Emergency Medicine.
Average and longest ambulance handover waits were lower in 2025/26. It should be acknowledged that there was an early and significant flu season with cases starting to increase in November 2025 and peaking in the first week of December. Flu cases remained high throughout December with episodes higher than 2024/25. Seasonal peaks in respiratory illness will inevitably place additional pressure on hospitals.
Vaccination rates, especially for those over the age of 65 (72.4%) and in care homes (79.3%) were good. Additional support has also been provided to care homes by Trusts in the administration of antivirals to residents where flu outbreaks occurred. This intervention is aimed at reducing admissions from care homes.
Ambulance handover delays are influenced by system-wide pressures, particularly during periods of high demand. The recent flu surge contributed to increased hospital admissions and reduced bed availability, which in turn affected the ability to offload patients promptly at EDs.
Reducing ambulance handover delays is a key priority for my Department, as prolonged delays impact NIAS’ capacity to respond to calls in the community. To address this, my Department and the Trusts have implemented a range of measures, including:
New ambulance handover guidance is being developed with Trusts and NIAS, aiming to eliminate delays exceeding two hours and progressively reduce shorter thresholds;
Targeted investment to improve patient flow, including additional short-stay and intermediate care beds, expansion of Same Day Emergency Care pathways, and enhanced discharge coordination;
Hospital at Home services and community-based care initiatives to reduce admissions and free up capacity in acute hospitals; and,
An integrated clinical hub within NIAS to provide clinical triage and alternative care pathways, reducing unnecessary conveyances to EDs.
These actions are part of a wider Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan designed to improve system flow and ensure timely access to emergency care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038377%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466649"}},{"id":"466648","reference":"AQW 38376/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-16","answerBy":"2026-02-02","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any actions he is taking to reduce ambulance handover delays at Emergency Departments, to ensure ambulances return to service promptly.","answerText":"My Department recognises the challenges faced by emergency departments (EDs) and has worked closely with Health and Social Care Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.\n\nTo help alleviate pressures in EDs, my Department has implemented a range of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of urgent care centres, Phone First Services and minor injury units, offering patients timely alternatives to ED attendance.\n\nAhead of the present winter period, my Department worked with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine and Trusts to appoint an additional 18 emergency medicine consultants to work in EDs across Northern Ireland. A further ten consultants completed their training in December 2025 and it is anticipated that they will also be recruited locally to provide further resilience and senior decision-making capacity to our EDs.\n\nI am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. I attended the first of these events on 4 March 2025 and was encouraged by the engagement and enthusiasm from HSC leaders across the system. The workshop saw attendance from a diverse group of stakeholders within our system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.\n\nIn August 2025, my Department held a regional workshop with senior management and clinicians from Trusts and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS), which focused on improving ambulance handover times. Input was provided from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital in London where they have been successful in reducing ambulance handover delays. My Department is working with NIAS and the Trusts to finalise ambulance handover guidance, based on the experience of the London model in order to improve ambulance handover times and release ambulances more quickly to respond to calls in the community.\n\nTrusts in Northern Ireland have been asked to implement changes to move towards this protocol. Incremental improvement targets for Phase 1 were agreed with Trusts that by 1 December 2025 there would be no ambulance handover delays in excess of two hours outside an ED, whilst also ensuring there was no deterioration in delays in excess of 15, 30 and 60 minutes. Once the 2-hour milestone is achieved, we will move towards meeting the 15-minute standard.\n\nSince the introduction of the phased approach, there have been around 800 fewer handover delays exceeding two hours compared to the same period in 2024. In December, several hospitals demonstrated strong performance against the 2hour threshold, with less than 20% of ambulance arrivals delayed over two hours. This included the Mater Hospital (8%), South West Acute Hospital (10%), Altnagelvin Hospital (13%), Daisy Hill Hospital (15%), and the Royal Victoria Hospital (16%), which reflects focused efforts to improve patient flow and reduce prolonged waits.\n\nWith regard to NIAS capacity and system flow, to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:\n\nThe expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;\n\nAdditional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;\n\nFrailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;\n\nExpansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and,\n\nEnhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.\n\nThese measures are embedded within each Trust’s Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan, developed in collaboration with the Regional Co-ordination Centre and informed by the ‘Big Discussion’ workshops.\n\nUltimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout hospitals, reducing ambulance handover times and congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.\n\nThese efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the challenges faced by emergency departments (EDs) and has worked closely with Health and Social Care Trusts and community services to implement a range of actions aimed at improving patient flow and reducing delays.
To help alleviate pressures in EDs, my Department has implemented a range of targeted initiatives. These include the expansion of urgent care centres, Phone First Services and minor injury units, offering patients timely alternatives to ED attendance.
Ahead of the present winter period, my Department worked with the Royal College of Emergency Medicine and Trusts to appoint an additional 18 emergency medicine consultants to work in EDs across Northern Ireland. A further ten consultants completed their training in December 2025 and it is anticipated that they will also be recruited locally to provide further resilience and senior decision-making capacity to our EDs.
I am determined to find better ways to work as a system to tackle waiting times in EDs. That is why I initiated a series of winter planning workshops to identify solutions to the system flow issues that we collectively face. I attended the first of these events on 4 March 2025 and was encouraged by the engagement and enthusiasm from HSC leaders across the system. The workshop saw attendance from a diverse group of stakeholders within our system, including Royal Colleges, clinicians, and other frontline services.
In August 2025, my Department held a regional workshop with senior management and clinicians from Trusts and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS), which focused on improving ambulance handover times. Input was provided from the London Ambulance Service and King George Hospital in London where they have been successful in reducing ambulance handover delays. My Department is working with NIAS and the Trusts to finalise ambulance handover guidance, based on the experience of the London model in order to improve ambulance handover times and release ambulances more quickly to respond to calls in the community.
Trusts in Northern Ireland have been asked to implement changes to move towards this protocol. Incremental improvement targets for Phase 1 were agreed with Trusts that by 1 December 2025 there would be no ambulance handover delays in excess of two hours outside an ED, whilst also ensuring there was no deterioration in delays in excess of 15, 30 and 60 minutes. Once the 2-hour milestone is achieved, we will move towards meeting the 15-minute standard.
Since the introduction of the phased approach, there have been around 800 fewer handover delays exceeding two hours compared to the same period in 2024. In December, several hospitals demonstrated strong performance against the 2hour threshold, with less than 20% of ambulance arrivals delayed over two hours. This included the Mater Hospital (8%), South West Acute Hospital (10%), Altnagelvin Hospital (13%), Daisy Hill Hospital (15%), and the Royal Victoria Hospital (16%), which reflects focused efforts to improve patient flow and reduce prolonged waits.
With regard to NIAS capacity and system flow, to support improved ambulance offload and response times, my Department has repurposed £10 million to fund targeted initiatives across Trusts. These measures include:
The expansion of Hospital at Home services in Belfast, South Eastern, and Northern Trusts, increasing community-based capacity;
Additional short stay inpatient beds (for example, eight in Altnagelvin) and intermediate care beds (for example, 12 in the Western Trust) to facilitate timely discharge;
Frailty assessment and multidisciplinary team reviews at the front door of acute hospitals;
Expansion of Same Day Emergency Care and ambulatory pathways across acute medicine, respiratory, cardiology, and surgical specialties; and,
Enhanced capacity for Early Review Teams and Discharge Coordination.
These measures are embedded within each Trust’s Unscheduled Care Improvement Plan, developed in collaboration with the Regional Co-ordination Centre and informed by the ‘Big Discussion’ workshops.
Ultimately, all of these measures are aimed at improving flow throughout hospitals, reducing ambulance handover times and congestion in our EDs and improving waiting times.
These efforts are part of a broader system-wide approach to ensure patients receive timely, safe, and effective care, both within EDs and across the wider health and social care system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038376%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466648","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466648"}},{"id":"466239","reference":"AQW 38178/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any training Universal Credit advisers receive to support vulnerable adults with a learning disability.","answerText":"All Universal Credit front line staff receive comprehensive training to ensure they can support claimants with complex needs, including vulnerable adults with a learning disability. This training includes detailed material on identifying and responding to complex needs, guidance on the range of support available and skills-based learning designed to enhance their ability to provide tailored assistance to ensure that claimants receive appropriate and effective support throughout their Universal Credit journey.\n\nTo further strengthen this learning and enhance capability, my Department’s Work Psychology Service, in partnership with Mencap, developed and delivered staff capacity building events on supporting customers with learning disabilities.","answerHtml":"All Universal Credit front line staff receive comprehensive training to ensure they can support claimants with complex needs, including vulnerable adults with a learning disability. This training includes detailed material on identifying and responding to complex needs, guidance on the range of support available and skills-based learning designed to enhance their ability to provide tailored assistance to ensure that claimants receive appropriate and effective support throughout their Universal Credit journey.
To further strengthen this learning and enhance capability, my Department’s Work Psychology Service, in partnership with Mencap, developed and delivered staff capacity building events on supporting customers with learning disabilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038178%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466239"}},{"id":"466238","reference":"AQW 38177/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) how claimants with a learning disability are identified, when moving from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit; and (ii) any safeguards in place for those without family, or informal support.","answerText":"When a claimant makes a new claim to Universal Credit they will be asked to declare their circumstances which will include any health conditions they may have.\n\nAll claimants moving from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit will receive a migration letter which includes details of a range of support available including the Universal Credit helpline, and signposting to independent advice. As part of the migration journey, enhanced support arrangements are also in place, with additional touch points both prior to and after making a claim, to ensure claimants are able to make and maintain their Universal Credit account. This can include additional support telephone calls, appointments in a local Jobs & Benefits office and a home visit if required.","answerHtml":"When a claimant makes a new claim to Universal Credit they will be asked to declare their circumstances which will include any health conditions they may have.
All claimants moving from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit will receive a migration letter which includes details of a range of support available including the Universal Credit helpline, and signposting to independent advice. As part of the migration journey, enhanced support arrangements are also in place, with additional touch points both prior to and after making a claim, to ensure claimants are able to make and maintain their Universal Credit account. This can include additional support telephone calls, appointments in a local Jobs & Benefits office and a home visit if required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038177%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466238","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466238"}},{"id":"466237","reference":"AQW 38176/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department has taken to ensure that Universal Credit communications issued during the move from Employment and Support Allowance are accessible for adults with a learning disability, including the use of clear language, and formats designed to reduce distress, and confusion.","answerText":"The Move to Universal Credit of legacy benefit claimants is supported through a range of communications, primarily migration notification letters, an awareness campaign and information online at nidirect.gov.uk. The migration notification letters were developed following extensive user testing and Advice Sector consultation to ensure the language and messaging used was as clear and easily understood as possible.\n\nAlternative formats of communication materials are available on request and all web content is considered in line with the appropriate Accessibility Regulations and the language used is suitable for a reading age of 9 years.","answerHtml":"The Move to Universal Credit of legacy benefit claimants is supported through a range of communications, primarily migration notification letters, an awareness campaign and information online at nidirect.gov.uk. The migration notification letters were developed following extensive user testing and Advice Sector consultation to ensure the language and messaging used was as clear and easily understood as possible.
Alternative formats of communication materials are available on request and all web content is considered in line with the appropriate Accessibility Regulations and the language used is suitable for a reading age of 9 years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038176%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466237"}},{"id":"466236","reference":"AQW 38175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has considered automatically enrolling adults with a learning disability onto Universal Credit, when they are required to move from Employment and Support Allowance.","answerText":"Anyone moving to Universal Credit since migration commenced in October 2023 has been required to make a fresh claim. This is necessary to ensure all aspects of entitlement are captured as Universal Credit replaces a range of legacy benefits and Tax Credits.\n\nPeople who are unable to make or manage their own Universal Credit claim due to a learning disability may have another individual or corporate body appointed to act on their behalf.","answerHtml":"Anyone moving to Universal Credit since migration commenced in October 2023 has been required to make a fresh claim. This is necessary to ensure all aspects of entitlement are captured as Universal Credit replaces a range of legacy benefits and Tax Credits.
People who are unable to make or manage their own Universal Credit claim due to a learning disability may have another individual or corporate body appointed to act on their behalf.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466236","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466236"}},{"id":"466235","reference":"AQW 38174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-14","answerBy":"2026-01-29","answered":"2026-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any specific support currently in place to assist adults with a learning disability, who are required to move from an Employment and Support Allowance award to Universal Credit, particularly at the point of initial application.","answerText":"All claimants moving from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit will receive a migration letter which includes details of a range of support available to make their application including the Universal Credit helpline and signposting to independent advice. As part of the migration journey, enhanced support arrangements are also in place, with additional touch points both prior to and after making a claim, to ensure all claimants are able to make and maintain their Universal Credit account. This can include additional support telephone calls, appointments in a local Jobs & Benefits office and a home visit if required.\n\nTailored support can be accessed by adults with a learning disability or their appointee by contacting their local Jobs & Benefits office. This support is available at the point of initial application and at any stage thereafter. The full list of Jobs & Benefits office locations is available on nidirect and the Department for Communities websites.","answerHtml":"All claimants moving from Employment and Support Allowance to Universal Credit will receive a migration letter which includes details of a range of support available to make their application including the Universal Credit helpline and signposting to independent advice. As part of the migration journey, enhanced support arrangements are also in place, with additional touch points both prior to and after making a claim, to ensure all claimants are able to make and maintain their Universal Credit account. This can include additional support telephone calls, appointments in a local Jobs & Benefits office and a home visit if required.
Tailored support can be accessed by adults with a learning disability or their appointee by contacting their local Jobs & Benefits office. This support is available at the point of initial application and at any stage thereafter. The full list of Jobs & Benefits office locations is available on nidirect and the Department for Communities websites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466235"}},{"id":"466046","reference":"AQW 38064/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to ensure that (i) individuals do not lose their domiciliary care package following hospital admission; and (ii) care can be reinstated promptly on discharge.","answerText":"Earmarked funding is provided for previous Executive commitments, such as Flagship Projects and City and Growth Deals.\n\nIn addition, my draft Budget proposes some earmarked allocations for Programme for Government (PfG) priorities. It is anticipated that departments will also use a proportion of their non-earmarked, or general, budget towards PfG priorities.\n\nThe York Street Interchange does not fall into the category of a previous Executive commitment.","answerHtml":"Earmarked funding is provided for previous Executive commitments, such as Flagship Projects and City and Growth Deals.
In addition, my draft Budget proposes some earmarked allocations for Programme for Government (PfG) priorities. It is anticipated that departments will also use a proportion of their non-earmarked, or general, budget towards PfG priorities.
The York Street Interchange does not fall into the category of a previous Executive commitment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038064%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466046","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466046"}},{"id":"466045","reference":"AQW 38063/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department takes to ensure that interim placements, including for respite care made due to a lack of domiciliary care, are located as close as possible to a person’s home.","answerText":"The responsibility for provision of interim and respite placements rests with the host Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nThe Belfast Trust has a range of contracts in place with care home providers which are within the Belfast geographical area. Where it is possible to do so, the Trust strives to facilitate placements as close to people’s homes as possible.\n\nThe Northern Trust has embarked on an ambitious Strategic Reform of Home Care Services, with a focus upon increasing and maximising home care capacity. If a contingency placement is required when a package of care is not available, the Trust will endeavour to ensure a care home is secured in the service user’s home of choice. However, due to challenges with care home capacity and suitability, this is not always possible. In such instances, the Trust will work with service users and families to source a placement as close as possible to their preferred location.\n\nIn the South Eastern Trust, when it is not possible to secure a homecare package for the delivery of care in a person’s own home, it is at times necessary to arrange an interim placement to await the care package. Whilst every effort is made to secure an interim placement close to the person’s home, this is not always possible as options are dependent upon care home availability. Any interim option will be discussed with the person and/or next of kin, and the Trust will continue to prioritise these requests to facilitate a return home as soon as possible.\n\nIn the Southern Trust, access to respite or an interim care bed due to a lack of access to a home care package is dependent on a number of variables including;\n\nPatient Choice,\n\nCarer preference e.g. for ease of visiting\n\nActual bed availability and\n\nAvailability of appropriate category of care.\n\nThe placement selected is agreed in partnership and with consent from the individual service user and family, as appropriate.\n\nThe Western Trust makes every effort to ensure that if a domiciliary care package is not immediately available, clients are placed in a care home that is as close to their home address as possible and will involve the client and their family/carer in these discussions.","answerHtml":"The responsibility for provision of interim and respite placements rests with the host Health and Social Care Trust.
The Belfast Trust has a range of contracts in place with care home providers which are within the Belfast geographical area. Where it is possible to do so, the Trust strives to facilitate placements as close to people’s homes as possible.
The Northern Trust has embarked on an ambitious Strategic Reform of Home Care Services, with a focus upon increasing and maximising home care capacity. If a contingency placement is required when a package of care is not available, the Trust will endeavour to ensure a care home is secured in the service user’s home of choice. However, due to challenges with care home capacity and suitability, this is not always possible. In such instances, the Trust will work with service users and families to source a placement as close as possible to their preferred location.
In the South Eastern Trust, when it is not possible to secure a homecare package for the delivery of care in a person’s own home, it is at times necessary to arrange an interim placement to await the care package. Whilst every effort is made to secure an interim placement close to the person’s home, this is not always possible as options are dependent upon care home availability. Any interim option will be discussed with the person and/or next of kin, and the Trust will continue to prioritise these requests to facilitate a return home as soon as possible.
In the Southern Trust, access to respite or an interim care bed due to a lack of access to a home care package is dependent on a number of variables including;
Patient Choice,
Carer preference e.g. for ease of visiting
Actual bed availability and
Availability of appropriate category of care.
The placement selected is agreed in partnership and with consent from the individual service user and family, as appropriate.
The Western Trust makes every effort to ensure that if a domiciliary care package is not immediately available, clients are placed in a care home that is as close to their home address as possible and will involve the client and their family/carer in these discussions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038063%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466045","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466045"}},{"id":"466044","reference":"AQW 38062/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures being taken to improve recruitment and retention of domiciliary care workers, including in rural areas, given that travel time and coverage can present additional challenges.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Trusts have an ongoing recruitment process in place for home care staff. In addition, the Trusts and the Independent Sector Providers run targeted recruitment in areas of high demand as and when required, this includes rural areas where it can be difficult to secure adequate staffing levels.\n\nThere are a number of factors that present particular challenges to the recruitment and retention of home care staff. These challenges include the unsocial element of the role (a service that is deployed 365 days per year), the challenges of lone working, the requirement to be a car driver with access to a car and of accruing very high mileage and the increasing complexity of service user’s needs and the associated responsibilities involved for home care care staff.\n\nOver the past five years, my Department has focused on providing additional financial support to the independent home care sector across Northern Ireland with a view to attracting more staff into this area of work.\n\nIn 2023/2024 my predecessor, Minister Swann had approved a 7.93% uplift for the Independent Sector Home Care Providers, which uplifted the hourly rate for home care to £18.54 per hour.\n\nSubsequent to this, in 2024/2025 a £70 million support package for social care providers and hospices was agreed. This led to a further uplift in the hourly rate for home care to £20.01. This decision had been made in recognition of the important role played by Independent Sector providers and their requirement as an employer to pay the National Living Wage.\n\nIn March 2025, I approved a 6.7% uplift for the Independent Sector Home Care minimum hourly rate which brought the minimum hourly rate for homecare to £21.35.\n\nThere is a continuing focus on the need to further uplift this rate in line with the Real Living Wage. This is based upon a recognition of the valued work that homecare workers carry out for many of our most vulnerable people and also in recognition of the need to both stabilise the current homecare workforce and to attract more people to work in this sector.\n\nThe initiatives put in place by the work of the Social Care Collaborative Reform Board (led by my Department), have adopted a particular focus on maximizing and growing home care. Some of these initiatives include:\n\nRight-sizing packages of care for individuals and re-cycling care hours back into the system to create more capacity.\n\nFocus on prevention and early intervention\n\nProvision of support through multi-disciplinary teams attached to an individual’s GP and local neighbourhood networks.\n\nPromotion of all elements of Self-Directed Support to empower individuals to manage their own care needs.\n\nIntroduction of the Social Care Workforce Strategy 2025-2035\n\nNotwithstanding the work being carried forward in this area, the challenges continue to be considerable.\n\nI would ask that you and other MLAs continue to offer assurance to your constituents that improving services for our families and communities remains a priority for my Department.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Trusts have an ongoing recruitment process in place for home care staff. In addition, the Trusts and the Independent Sector Providers run targeted recruitment in areas of high demand as and when required, this includes rural areas where it can be difficult to secure adequate staffing levels.
There are a number of factors that present particular challenges to the recruitment and retention of home care staff. These challenges include the unsocial element of the role (a service that is deployed 365 days per year), the challenges of lone working, the requirement to be a car driver with access to a car and of accruing very high mileage and the increasing complexity of service user’s needs and the associated responsibilities involved for home care care staff.
Over the past five years, my Department has focused on providing additional financial support to the independent home care sector across Northern Ireland with a view to attracting more staff into this area of work.
In 2023/2024 my predecessor, Minister Swann had approved a 7.93% uplift for the Independent Sector Home Care Providers, which uplifted the hourly rate for home care to £18.54 per hour.
Subsequent to this, in 2024/2025 a £70 million support package for social care providers and hospices was agreed. This led to a further uplift in the hourly rate for home care to £20.01. This decision had been made in recognition of the important role played by Independent Sector providers and their requirement as an employer to pay the National Living Wage.
In March 2025, I approved a 6.7% uplift for the Independent Sector Home Care minimum hourly rate which brought the minimum hourly rate for homecare to £21.35.
There is a continuing focus on the need to further uplift this rate in line with the Real Living Wage. This is based upon a recognition of the valued work that homecare workers carry out for many of our most vulnerable people and also in recognition of the need to both stabilise the current homecare workforce and to attract more people to work in this sector.
The initiatives put in place by the work of the Social Care Collaborative Reform Board (led by my Department), have adopted a particular focus on maximizing and growing home care. Some of these initiatives include:
Right-sizing packages of care for individuals and re-cycling care hours back into the system to create more capacity.
Focus on prevention and early intervention
Provision of support through multi-disciplinary teams attached to an individual’s GP and local neighbourhood networks.
Promotion of all elements of Self-Directed Support to empower individuals to manage their own care needs.
Introduction of the Social Care Workforce Strategy 2025-2035
Notwithstanding the work being carried forward in this area, the challenges continue to be considerable.
I would ask that you and other MLAs continue to offer assurance to your constituents that improving services for our families and communities remains a priority for my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466044","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466044"}},{"id":"466043","reference":"AQW 38061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the average distance from the home of individuals placed in respite or interim care due to a lack of domiciliary care; and (ii) the number of such placements, (a) over 20 miles; and (b) over 40 miles, from home, in the last year, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Trusts have indicated that to provide this information, a manual trawl of case notes would be required. This trawl would require a significant investment of resource and time, therefore this information is not readily available.\n\nThe Trusts do seek to ensure that when an interim care home placement is considered due to a lack of domiciliary care that the following factors are always considered:\n\nPatient choice\n\nCarer preference e.g. for ease of visiting\n\nActual bed availability and/or\n\nAvailability of appropriate category of care bed\n\nWhilst I am unable to provide specific data in respect of individuals being placed at lengthy distances from their homes and communities, I trust the response has provided a measure of reassurance as to the factors taken under consideration by the Health and Social Care Trusts in approaching such decisions.","answerHtml":"Trusts have indicated that to provide this information, a manual trawl of case notes would be required. This trawl would require a significant investment of resource and time, therefore this information is not readily available.
The Trusts do seek to ensure that when an interim care home placement is considered due to a lack of domiciliary care that the following factors are always considered:
Patient choice
Carer preference e.g. for ease of visiting
Actual bed availability and/or
Availability of appropriate category of care bed
Whilst I am unable to provide specific data in respect of individuals being placed at lengthy distances from their homes and communities, I trust the response has provided a measure of reassurance as to the factors taken under consideration by the Health and Social Care Trusts in approaching such decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038061%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466043","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466043"}},{"id":"466042","reference":"AQW 38060/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-13","answerBy":"2026-01-28","answered":"2026-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of patients who had a delayed discharge due to the unavailability of domiciliary care; and (ii) the average length of such delays, in each of the last 12 months, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Officials contacted each of the HSC Trusts for the response set out below;\n\nBHSCT\n\nNumber of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care\tAverage length of delay (over 48 hours in days)\nJan-25\t59\t7.1\nFeb-25\t65\t8.5\nMar-25\t88\t8.5\nApr-25\t81\t8.5\nMay-25\t73\t9\nJun-25\t72\t9\nJul-25\t82\t7.8\nAug-25\t85\t11.1\nSep-25\t94\t9\nOct-25\t90\t10.3\nNov-25\t93\t8.3\nDec-25\t87\t9.6\n\n*Belfast Trust note that they discharge approximately 200 patients who require homecare per month in under 48 hours.\n\nNHSCT\n\nNumber of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care\tAverage Length of delay (in days, to include the 48-hour target timeframe)\nJan-25\t40\t4.7\nFeb-25\t36\t5.5\nMar-25\t46\t5.1\nApr-25\t58\t4.3\nMay-25\t71\t5.6\nJun-25\t66\t71\nJul-25\t86\t3\nAug-25\t72\t4.4\nSep-25\t73\t3.9\nOct-25\t88\t4.2\nNov-25\t66\t4.3\nDec-25\t74\t5.8\n\nSEHSCT\n\nNumber of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care\tAverage length of delay (over 48 hours in days)\nJan-25\t116\t2.83\nFeb-25\t114\t3.75\nMar-25\t107\t2.54\nApr-25\t109\t3.63\nMay-25\t117\t3.21\nJun-25\t102\t2.04\nJul-25\t99\t3.96\nAug-25\t95\t3.46\nSep-25\t110\t2.13\nOct-25\t126\t2.17\nNov-25\t119\t2.17\nDec-25\t138\t2.67\n\n*SET note, there are many variables and caveats to be factored in which raw data cannot account for, i.e. the length of time delayed may not have solely been due to unavailability of a homecare package. Transport issues and orders for equipment and medication are all reasons which could have contributed to delayed discharge without being coded as the primary reason.\n\nSHSCT\n\nNumber of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care\tAverage length of delay (over 48 hours in days)\nJan-25\t44\t35.69\nFeb-25\t39\t45.72\nMar-25\t57\t8.88\nApr-25\t62\t14.48\nMay-25\t53\t14.49\nJun-25\t59\t12.29\nJul-25\t63\t13.32\nAug-25\t56\t11.16\nSep-25\t53\t16.88\nOct-25\t112\t13.72\nNov-25\t68\t15.07\nDec-25\t74\t15.46\n\nWHSCT\n\n*WHSCT have indicated they are unable to provide the information as requested as the Trust is still working on a data validation process following implementation of Encompass.","answerHtml":"Officials contacted each of the HSC Trusts for the response set out below;
BHSCT
| Number of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care | Average length of delay (over 48 hours in days) | |
| Jan-25 | 59 | 7.1 |
| Feb-25 | 65 | 8.5 |
| Mar-25 | 88 | 8.5 |
| Apr-25 | 81 | 8.5 |
| May-25 | 73 | 9 |
| Jun-25 | 72 | 9 |
| Jul-25 | 82 | 7.8 |
| Aug-25 | 85 | 11.1 |
| Sep-25 | 94 | 9 |
| Oct-25 | 90 | 10.3 |
| Nov-25 | 93 | 8.3 |
| Dec-25 | 87 | 9.6 |
*Belfast Trust note that they discharge approximately 200 patients who require homecare per month in under 48 hours.
NHSCT
| Number of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care | Average Length of delay (in days, to include the 48-hour target timeframe) | |
| Jan-25 | 40 | 4.7 |
| Feb-25 | 36 | 5.5 |
| Mar-25 | 46 | 5.1 |
| Apr-25 | 58 | 4.3 |
| May-25 | 71 | 5.6 |
| Jun-25 | 66 | 71 |
| Jul-25 | 86 | 3 |
| Aug-25 | 72 | 4.4 |
| Sep-25 | 73 | 3.9 |
| Oct-25 | 88 | 4.2 |
| Nov-25 | 66 | 4.3 |
| Dec-25 | 74 | 5.8 |
SEHSCT
| Number of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care | Average length of delay (over 48 hours in days) | |
| Jan-25 | 116 | 2.83 |
| Feb-25 | 114 | 3.75 |
| Mar-25 | 107 | 2.54 |
| Apr-25 | 109 | 3.63 |
| May-25 | 117 | 3.21 |
| Jun-25 | 102 | 2.04 |
| Jul-25 | 99 | 3.96 |
| Aug-25 | 95 | 3.46 |
| Sep-25 | 110 | 2.13 |
| Oct-25 | 126 | 2.17 |
| Nov-25 | 119 | 2.17 |
| Dec-25 | 138 | 2.67 |
*SET note, there are many variables and caveats to be factored in which raw data cannot account for, i.e. the length of time delayed may not have solely been due to unavailability of a homecare package. Transport issues and orders for equipment and medication are all reasons which could have contributed to delayed discharge without being coded as the primary reason.
SHSCT
| Number of Patients delayed due to unavailability of domiciliary care | Average length of delay (over 48 hours in days) | |
| Jan-25 | 44 | 35.69 |
| Feb-25 | 39 | 45.72 |
| Mar-25 | 57 | 8.88 |
| Apr-25 | 62 | 14.48 |
| May-25 | 53 | 14.49 |
| Jun-25 | 59 | 12.29 |
| Jul-25 | 63 | 13.32 |
| Aug-25 | 56 | 11.16 |
| Sep-25 | 53 | 16.88 |
| Oct-25 | 112 | 13.72 |
| Nov-25 | 68 | 15.07 |
| Dec-25 | 74 | 15.46 |
WHSCT
*WHSCT have indicated they are unable to provide the information as requested as the Trust is still working on a data validation process following implementation of Encompass.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=466042","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=466042"}},{"id":"465741","reference":"AQW 37956/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-12","answerBy":"2026-01-27","answered":"2026-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has made of the impact of increased reporting of domestic and sexual violence, on the criminal justice system capacity.","answerText":"Between 20 December 2025 and 2 January 2026, the PSNI received 1,407 domestic abuse calls, an increase on the 1,290 calls recorded during the same period in 2024–25. This represents an increase of approximately 9.1%.\n\nThe figures show that demand for police support was consistently high across the two-week period, with call volumes exceeding those recorded across most days in the equivalent periods in 2023–24 and 2024–25. New Year’s Day recorded the highest number of calls, at 116, followed closely by Christmas Day with 115 calls, and 27 December with 114 calls.\n\nThese figures underline that the heightened risk associated with domestic abuse does not end on Christmas Day but continues throughout the holiday period and into the New Year.\n\nIn relation to the impact of increased reporting on criminal justice system capacity, my Department keeps demand and pressures across the system under ongoing review, working closely with the PSNI, the PPS, NICTs and NIPS. Increased reporting is, on the one hand, a sign that more victims are coming forward to seek help and protection, which is vitally important. However, it also inevitably places additional pressure on police, prosecutors, courts, prisons and support services.\n\nThrough the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which my Department is delivering jointly with the Department of Health, we are taking a whole-system approach focused on prevention, early intervention, supporting victims and holding perpetrators to account. This includes work to improve pathways through the justice system, strengthen victim support, and ensure that services are better equipped to respond to both rising demand and complexity.\n\nIt is also important to note that reported crime figures do not necessarily provide a direct measure of prevalence, as changes may reflect greater confidence in reporting as well as changes in underlying offending. My Department will continue to work with justice partners to monitor trends, assess pressures on capacity, and ensure that the limited resources available are targeted where they are most needed.\n\nAny level of domestic and sexual abuse is unacceptable, and these figures reinforce the importance of sustained, year-round action across government and the justice system to protect victims and prevent abuse.","answerHtml":"Between 20 December 2025 and 2 January 2026, the PSNI received 1,407 domestic abuse calls, an increase on the 1,290 calls recorded during the same period in 2024–25. This represents an increase of approximately 9.1%.
The figures show that demand for police support was consistently high across the two-week period, with call volumes exceeding those recorded across most days in the equivalent periods in 2023–24 and 2024–25. New Year’s Day recorded the highest number of calls, at 116, followed closely by Christmas Day with 115 calls, and 27 December with 114 calls.
These figures underline that the heightened risk associated with domestic abuse does not end on Christmas Day but continues throughout the holiday period and into the New Year.
In relation to the impact of increased reporting on criminal justice system capacity, my Department keeps demand and pressures across the system under ongoing review, working closely with the PSNI, the PPS, NICTs and NIPS. Increased reporting is, on the one hand, a sign that more victims are coming forward to seek help and protection, which is vitally important. However, it also inevitably places additional pressure on police, prosecutors, courts, prisons and support services.
Through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which my Department is delivering jointly with the Department of Health, we are taking a whole-system approach focused on prevention, early intervention, supporting victims and holding perpetrators to account. This includes work to improve pathways through the justice system, strengthen victim support, and ensure that services are better equipped to respond to both rising demand and complexity.
It is also important to note that reported crime figures do not necessarily provide a direct measure of prevalence, as changes may reflect greater confidence in reporting as well as changes in underlying offending. My Department will continue to work with justice partners to monitor trends, assess pressures on capacity, and ensure that the limited resources available are targeted where they are most needed.
Any level of domestic and sexual abuse is unacceptable, and these figures reinforce the importance of sustained, year-round action across government and the justice system to protect victims and prevent abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037956%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465741"}},{"id":"465740","reference":"AQW 37955/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-12","answerBy":"2026-01-27","answered":"2026-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of specialist sexual violence support provision in East Londonderry; and (ii) whether any gaps have been identified.","answerText":"My Department has a current contract with Nexus NI who provide a regional service which offers counselling for adult victims and survivors of sexual abuse.\n\nThis service which is available in the East Londonderry area provides a period of counselling for victims and survivors of sexual abuse. Following an initial assessment each individual will be offered up to 12 counselling sessions, based on presenting need. Counselling services in the region are delivered from two locations in Coleraine and one location in Derry/Londonderry.\n\nReferrals to the service will be from a range of agents, including GPs, Health and Social Care Trusts, and individuals who self-refer.\n\nThis provision is currently specifically focused on supporting individuals who have been victims of sexual abuse and are at a stage of their journey where therapeutic interventions are most likely to have the best outcome.\n\nIn addition to face-to-face counselling, Nexus NI also offer telephone counselling and virtual counselling via Microsoft Teams. At the point of referral, clients can select their preferred method of delivery and service location. This choice is not always linked to home address; for example, individuals may choose to attend a service location closer to their workplace.\n\nFrom 1 April 2025 to date, a total of 425 individuals (adults and children combined) have been supported through counselling services in the East Londonderry area. Outcomes continue to be positive, with most clients who engage in counselling reporting improvements in wellbeing and overall functioning.\n\nAt present, the waiting list in the East Londonderry area comprises:\n\n31 adults awaiting counselling\n\nNo children or young people currently on the waiting list\n\nRegionally the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services work therapeutically with children and young people who have experienced mental health issues secondary to having experienced child sexual abuse. My Department currently procures specific therapeutic support for children and young people who are potentially vulnerable to Child Sexual Exploitation through Barnardo’s who operate regionally. My Department also supports the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) through the Department of Health’s Core Grant. Although this Grant does not specifically procure a Therapeutic Service, it does support the NSPCC to deliver their services which includes Therapeutic Support.\n\nThe Moving On and Recovery Service is based in the Western Health and Social Care Trust area which covers the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nAdult counselling services are primarily funded by my Department through the Nexus contract (up to June 2027). A procurement exercise is underway to commission this service thereafter.\n\nThere is currently no confirmed funding beyond March 2026 to sustain the adult crisis de-escalation service delivered by Nexus NI, which is currently being funded by the Department of Justice.\n\nCounselling provision for children and young people is reliant on external funding and the Nexus NI service is currently at the end of its funding year through the National Lottery. Interim funding has been secured through the DSA Strategy, until the end of March 2026. An application has been made to a grant making Trust for continuation funding.\n\nThe Cross Departmental Barnahus Working Group, jointly led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, have undertaken benchmarking work which has highlighted therapeutic services for children and young people who experienced sexual abuse as one of the most significant gaps in current practice compared to the Barnahus standards across the region. An options paper is being produced for the Ministers for Health and Justice to consider how a Barnahus model could be implemented.","answerHtml":"My Department has a current contract with Nexus NI who provide a regional service which offers counselling for adult victims and survivors of sexual abuse.
This service which is available in the East Londonderry area provides a period of counselling for victims and survivors of sexual abuse. Following an initial assessment each individual will be offered up to 12 counselling sessions, based on presenting need. Counselling services in the region are delivered from two locations in Coleraine and one location in Derry/Londonderry.
Referrals to the service will be from a range of agents, including GPs, Health and Social Care Trusts, and individuals who self-refer.
This provision is currently specifically focused on supporting individuals who have been victims of sexual abuse and are at a stage of their journey where therapeutic interventions are most likely to have the best outcome.
In addition to face-to-face counselling, Nexus NI also offer telephone counselling and virtual counselling via Microsoft Teams. At the point of referral, clients can select their preferred method of delivery and service location. This choice is not always linked to home address; for example, individuals may choose to attend a service location closer to their workplace.
From 1 April 2025 to date, a total of 425 individuals (adults and children combined) have been supported through counselling services in the East Londonderry area. Outcomes continue to be positive, with most clients who engage in counselling reporting improvements in wellbeing and overall functioning.
At present, the waiting list in the East Londonderry area comprises:
31 adults awaiting counselling
No children or young people currently on the waiting list
Regionally the Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services work therapeutically with children and young people who have experienced mental health issues secondary to having experienced child sexual abuse. My Department currently procures specific therapeutic support for children and young people who are potentially vulnerable to Child Sexual Exploitation through Barnardo’s who operate regionally. My Department also supports the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (NSPCC) through the Department of Health’s Core Grant. Although this Grant does not specifically procure a Therapeutic Service, it does support the NSPCC to deliver their services which includes Therapeutic Support.
The Moving On and Recovery Service is based in the Western Health and Social Care Trust area which covers the East Londonderry constituency.
Adult counselling services are primarily funded by my Department through the Nexus contract (up to June 2027). A procurement exercise is underway to commission this service thereafter.
There is currently no confirmed funding beyond March 2026 to sustain the adult crisis de-escalation service delivered by Nexus NI, which is currently being funded by the Department of Justice.
Counselling provision for children and young people is reliant on external funding and the Nexus NI service is currently at the end of its funding year through the National Lottery. Interim funding has been secured through the DSA Strategy, until the end of March 2026. An application has been made to a grant making Trust for continuation funding.
The Cross Departmental Barnahus Working Group, jointly led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, have undertaken benchmarking work which has highlighted therapeutic services for children and young people who experienced sexual abuse as one of the most significant gaps in current practice compared to the Barnahus standards across the region. An options paper is being produced for the Ministers for Health and Justice to consider how a Barnahus model could be implemented.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037955%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465740","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465740"}},{"id":"465739","reference":"AQW 37954/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-12","answerBy":"2026-01-27","answered":"2026-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any specific delivery milestones, set for 2025 under the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, (i) that have been achieved; (ii) where shortfalls remain.","answerText":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024–2031 launched in September 2024 and is being delivered through a multi-year action plan covering Years 1 to 3. Many of the actions are deliberately phased and sequenced, reflecting the fact that a number of the actions require preparatory work, engagement with delivery partners and, in some cases, legislative decisions or funding before they can be fully implemented. The Strategy is jointly led by my Department and the Department of Health, with the Department for Communities, the Department of Education and The Executive Office acting as key delivery partners.\n\nIn terms of strategic governance, substantial progress was made during 2025 across a wide range of key commitments:\n\nGovernance and oversight arrangements for the Strategy have been fully embedded, with the Strategy Oversight Board and Expert Reference Group meeting regularly and reporting aligned with the Executive’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) structures;\n\nFunding for 2025/26 has been allocated;\n\na further Small Grants Scheme has been launched, enabling voluntary and community sector partners to deliver projects that support victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse or help prevent abuse in the first place.\n\nIn relation to criminal justice delivery my Department and its partners continue to make strong progress:\n\nThe Children’s Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (CSOLA) service was launched in February 2025 and is already providing specialist support to children and families.\n\nThe adult SOLA scheme has been extended until 2027 and continues to support thousands of victims. New advocacy support service contracts commenced in 2025 for both adults and children and young people.\n\nMy Department is continuing to oversee the Domestic Homicide Review process under which a new multi-agency group has been established to drive system-wide improvements in line with recommendations.\n\nThe Department has also published its statutory training statement under the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act to show that professional involved in policing, prosecution, courts and victims support are trained to understand domestic abuse.\n\nThe Department secured additional PPS resources for Domestic Abuse Contest Courts, which are achieving improved conviction rates.\n\nWithin the prison system, specialist Women’s Support and Trauma Support Worker services are now in place to support women who have experienced domestic and sexual abuse.\n\nMy Department also provided funding for and working in partnership to develop the Power to Change campaign which seeks to tackle the underlying behaviours and attitudes that can facilitate gender based violence. The campaign was launched jointly by the Chief Constable, Junior Minister Cameron and me in January 2025.\n\nSignificant work has also been progressed towards the establishment of new arrangements to replace the existing Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC). This has included significant engagement on a cross-sectoral and multi-agency basis. Recommendations for a new model have been agreed and work is underway to implement these. A number of practical changes are already in place and it is anticipated that new arrangements will be introduced in the first half of FY26/27.\n\nAlongside this, I am aware that partner Departments have also delivered significant progress under the strategy during 2025.\n\nThe Department of Health has advanced work on routine enquiry, including additional information on domestic abuse in the Birth-Five and Pregnancy books and setting up a working group to take forward the next phase of this work which will focus on extending routine enquiry to other health professionals.\n\nPromoting knowledge, awareness and resources in relation to harmful sexual behaviour amongst front-line professionals is progressing. The Harmful Sexual Behaviour report has been submitted and DoH and DoJ are considering next steps, subject to funding.\n\nThe Department of Health is exploring options in regard to the appointment of a Non-Executive Director on each Health and Social Care Trust Board for tackling and preventing domestic and sexual abuse and violence against women and girls.\n\nThe Department of Health intends to publish a Reflections Booklet on Domestic and Sexual Abuse specifically for social workers. This booklet aims to provide social workers with insights and guidance on best practices when dealing with cases of domestic and sexual abuse.\n\nWork on the Online Safety Strategy is progressing under the updated action plan. Core messaging continues to be delivered through the Online Safety Hub, which hosts 300+ resources from over 30 trusted partners. It offers tailored content for adults and young people, plus guidance, signposting, and research. To support promotion, new demonstration video tours for adults and young people and the Autumn Hub Highlights newsletter were recently shared. The Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland is partnering with the UK Safer Internet Centre and the Education Authority to promote Safer Internet Day on 10 February 2026. The preventative education campaign explores AI’s benefits, risks, and ethical issues, including deepfakes. Two webinars for education and youth settings will run in January. Since January 2025, over 850 multiagency professionals trained on technology-assisted child sexual abuse (TACSA), with recorded resources in development to expand access, under the Online Safety Strategy Action Plan.\n\nThe Department for Communities and the Housing Executive have delivered Year 1 of the Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan, including expansion of the Sanctuary Scheme, major staff training programmes and additional homelessness prevention funding.\n\nThe Department of Education, through DSA strategy funding continues to work closely with the Education Authority and PSNI, providing support and advice for schools in receipt of Operation Encompass notifications. A programme of training and support for c300 non-statutory pre-schools in respect of the impacts of abuse is also underway in partnership with Women’s Aid Federation NI. In conjunction with The Executive Office under the EVAWG framework, DE is progressing the Healthy Relationships Forum and associated action plan that will coordinate interventions targeted at children and young people and focused on healthy relationships.\n\nThere are a number of areas where work is still in progress. It would be misleading to describe these as shortfalls as for the most part, these are projects that span multiple years and were not intended to be completed within a single year. A number of them depend on preparatory work, sequencing, cross-departmental agreement, workforce capacity and, in some cases, the availability of funding.\n\nFrom a Department of Justice perspective, the most significant area still in development is the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPN/Os). These new civil protection orders and notices involve complex reform requiring new policy, legislation, court processes and operational models across multiple agencies. I am on record about the challenges that have been encountered in developing these measures. However progress is being made and officials have undertaken detailed learning from pilots in England and engagement with Scottish colleagues and are working closely with PSNI, the Courts and the voluntary and community sector to develop a Northern Ireland-specific, victim-centred model. The intention is to agree a preferred model by the end of FYR 2025/26, with a pilot planned for implementation in the second half of 2026/27.\n\nI am also aware that there are also a small number of actions which are necessarily taking longer to deliver in full due to their complexity and cross-agency nature, but where progress is continuing. This includes work to improve the quality and timeliness of information sharing and referrals between the PSNI and Social Services. Progress is being made, but delivery is dependent on system readiness, workforce capacity and funding, and will continue over the remainder of the Action Plan period.","answerHtml":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024–2031 launched in September 2024 and is being delivered through a multi-year action plan covering Years 1 to 3. Many of the actions are deliberately phased and sequenced, reflecting the fact that a number of the actions require preparatory work, engagement with delivery partners and, in some cases, legislative decisions or funding before they can be fully implemented. The Strategy is jointly led by my Department and the Department of Health, with the Department for Communities, the Department of Education and The Executive Office acting as key delivery partners.
In terms of strategic governance, substantial progress was made during 2025 across a wide range of key commitments:
Governance and oversight arrangements for the Strategy have been fully embedded, with the Strategy Oversight Board and Expert Reference Group meeting regularly and reporting aligned with the Executive’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) structures;
Funding for 2025/26 has been allocated;
a further Small Grants Scheme has been launched, enabling voluntary and community sector partners to deliver projects that support victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse or help prevent abuse in the first place.
In relation to criminal justice delivery my Department and its partners continue to make strong progress:
The Children’s Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (CSOLA) service was launched in February 2025 and is already providing specialist support to children and families.
The adult SOLA scheme has been extended until 2027 and continues to support thousands of victims. New advocacy support service contracts commenced in 2025 for both adults and children and young people.
My Department is continuing to oversee the Domestic Homicide Review process under which a new multi-agency group has been established to drive system-wide improvements in line with recommendations.
The Department has also published its statutory training statement under the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act to show that professional involved in policing, prosecution, courts and victims support are trained to understand domestic abuse.
The Department secured additional PPS resources for Domestic Abuse Contest Courts, which are achieving improved conviction rates.
Within the prison system, specialist Women’s Support and Trauma Support Worker services are now in place to support women who have experienced domestic and sexual abuse.
My Department also provided funding for and working in partnership to develop the Power to Change campaign which seeks to tackle the underlying behaviours and attitudes that can facilitate gender based violence. The campaign was launched jointly by the Chief Constable, Junior Minister Cameron and me in January 2025.
Significant work has also been progressed towards the establishment of new arrangements to replace the existing Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conferences (MARAC). This has included significant engagement on a cross-sectoral and multi-agency basis. Recommendations for a new model have been agreed and work is underway to implement these. A number of practical changes are already in place and it is anticipated that new arrangements will be introduced in the first half of FY26/27.
Alongside this, I am aware that partner Departments have also delivered significant progress under the strategy during 2025.
The Department of Health has advanced work on routine enquiry, including additional information on domestic abuse in the Birth-Five and Pregnancy books and setting up a working group to take forward the next phase of this work which will focus on extending routine enquiry to other health professionals.
Promoting knowledge, awareness and resources in relation to harmful sexual behaviour amongst front-line professionals is progressing. The Harmful Sexual Behaviour report has been submitted and DoH and DoJ are considering next steps, subject to funding.
The Department of Health is exploring options in regard to the appointment of a Non-Executive Director on each Health and Social Care Trust Board for tackling and preventing domestic and sexual abuse and violence against women and girls.
The Department of Health intends to publish a Reflections Booklet on Domestic and Sexual Abuse specifically for social workers. This booklet aims to provide social workers with insights and guidance on best practices when dealing with cases of domestic and sexual abuse.
Work on the Online Safety Strategy is progressing under the updated action plan. Core messaging continues to be delivered through the Online Safety Hub, which hosts 300+ resources from over 30 trusted partners. It offers tailored content for adults and young people, plus guidance, signposting, and research. To support promotion, new demonstration video tours for adults and young people and the Autumn Hub Highlights newsletter were recently shared. The Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland is partnering with the UK Safer Internet Centre and the Education Authority to promote Safer Internet Day on 10 February 2026. The preventative education campaign explores AI’s benefits, risks, and ethical issues, including deepfakes. Two webinars for education and youth settings will run in January. Since January 2025, over 850 multiagency professionals trained on technology-assisted child sexual abuse (TACSA), with recorded resources in development to expand access, under the Online Safety Strategy Action Plan.
The Department for Communities and the Housing Executive have delivered Year 1 of the Housing Executive’s Domestic Abuse Action Plan, including expansion of the Sanctuary Scheme, major staff training programmes and additional homelessness prevention funding.
The Department of Education, through DSA strategy funding continues to work closely with the Education Authority and PSNI, providing support and advice for schools in receipt of Operation Encompass notifications. A programme of training and support for c300 non-statutory pre-schools in respect of the impacts of abuse is also underway in partnership with Women’s Aid Federation NI. In conjunction with The Executive Office under the EVAWG framework, DE is progressing the Healthy Relationships Forum and associated action plan that will coordinate interventions targeted at children and young people and focused on healthy relationships.
There are a number of areas where work is still in progress. It would be misleading to describe these as shortfalls as for the most part, these are projects that span multiple years and were not intended to be completed within a single year. A number of them depend on preparatory work, sequencing, cross-departmental agreement, workforce capacity and, in some cases, the availability of funding.
From a Department of Justice perspective, the most significant area still in development is the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPN/Os). These new civil protection orders and notices involve complex reform requiring new policy, legislation, court processes and operational models across multiple agencies. I am on record about the challenges that have been encountered in developing these measures. However progress is being made and officials have undertaken detailed learning from pilots in England and engagement with Scottish colleagues and are working closely with PSNI, the Courts and the voluntary and community sector to develop a Northern Ireland-specific, victim-centred model. The intention is to agree a preferred model by the end of FYR 2025/26, with a pilot planned for implementation in the second half of 2026/27.
I am also aware that there are also a small number of actions which are necessarily taking longer to deliver in full due to their complexity and cross-agency nature, but where progress is continuing. This includes work to improve the quality and timeliness of information sharing and referrals between the PSNI and Social Services. Progress is being made, but delivery is dependent on system readiness, workforce capacity and funding, and will continue over the remainder of the Action Plan period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037954%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465739","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465739"}},{"id":"465738","reference":"AQW 37953/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-12","answerBy":"2026-01-27","answered":"2026-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any immediate measures her Department has put in place to improve the safety of women and girls in East Londonderry, following recent reports of alleged serious sexual offences in Coleraine.","answerText":"I am very aware of the understandable concern in the local community following recent reports of alleged serious sexual offences in the Coleraine area.\n\nHowever, I want to be clear that ensuring the safety of women and girls is a priority for both my Department and for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.\n\nI am aware that, operationally, the PSNI keeps local threat, risk and harm under constant review and, where necessary, deploys additional visible policing, targeted patrols and other protective measures in response to emerging concerns. Decisions about such deployments are, quite properly, a matter for the Chief Constable based on the professional assessment of risk and intelligence.\n\nFrom a Departmental perspective, my officials continue to work closely with the PSNI and with partners across government and the voluntary and community sector to ensure that victims have access to support and protection. This includes ongoing investment in domestic and sexual abuse support services and funding for specialist support organisations.\n\nMore broadly, my department along with the Department of Health is delivering the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024–2031, alongside the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework led by The Executive Office. These frameworks are focused on prevention, protection, justice and support, and on improving both the immediate and long-term response to violence and abuse.\n\nI would strongly encourage anyone who has information about these or any other offences, or who feels unsafe, to contact the PSNI, and I would also encourage victims to seek support from the specialist services that are available to them.","answerHtml":"I am very aware of the understandable concern in the local community following recent reports of alleged serious sexual offences in the Coleraine area.
However, I want to be clear that ensuring the safety of women and girls is a priority for both my Department and for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
I am aware that, operationally, the PSNI keeps local threat, risk and harm under constant review and, where necessary, deploys additional visible policing, targeted patrols and other protective measures in response to emerging concerns. Decisions about such deployments are, quite properly, a matter for the Chief Constable based on the professional assessment of risk and intelligence.
From a Departmental perspective, my officials continue to work closely with the PSNI and with partners across government and the voluntary and community sector to ensure that victims have access to support and protection. This includes ongoing investment in domestic and sexual abuse support services and funding for specialist support organisations.
More broadly, my department along with the Department of Health is delivering the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024–2031, alongside the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework led by The Executive Office. These frameworks are focused on prevention, protection, justice and support, and on improving both the immediate and long-term response to violence and abuse.
I would strongly encourage anyone who has information about these or any other offences, or who feels unsafe, to contact the PSNI, and I would also encourage victims to seek support from the specialist services that are available to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037953%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465738","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465738"}},{"id":"465737","reference":"AQW 37952/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-12","answerBy":"2026-01-27","answered":"2026-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any short-term actions that have been delivered under the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls framework, since its launch.","answerText":"Since the launch of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Strategic Framework we have delivered a wide range of actions. The Local and Regional Change Fund are driving meaningful change across communities and organisations, with visible impact in schools, sports clubs and the community and voluntary sectors.\n\nThe Power to Change Campaign, jointly launched by TEO, DoJ and the PSNI in January 2025, targets harmful attitudes and behaviours of men and boys and uses the active bystander approach.\n\nThe pilot stage of the coercive control campaign has now been completed, and it is planned for regional rollout in 2026. We have also established key-sectoral working groups to identify actions to improve outcomes for women and girls in educational, workplace, social and nighttime settings.\n\nWe will continue to prioritise actions that deliver the long term, transformational change needed across society to end violence against women and girls.","answerHtml":"Since the launch of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Strategic Framework we have delivered a wide range of actions. The Local and Regional Change Fund are driving meaningful change across communities and organisations, with visible impact in schools, sports clubs and the community and voluntary sectors.
The Power to Change Campaign, jointly launched by TEO, DoJ and the PSNI in January 2025, targets harmful attitudes and behaviours of men and boys and uses the active bystander approach.
The pilot stage of the coercive control campaign has now been completed, and it is planned for regional rollout in 2026. We have also established key-sectoral working groups to identify actions to improve outcomes for women and girls in educational, workplace, social and nighttime settings.
We will continue to prioritise actions that deliver the long term, transformational change needed across society to end violence against women and girls.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037952%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=465737","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=465737"}},{"id":"464618","reference":"AQO 2920/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2026-01-05","answerBy":"2026-01-13","answered":"2026-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his decision in relation to the removal of emergency general surgery from Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"On 18 December 2025, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group chaired an Emergency General Surgery Causeway Summit. This meeting brought together senior leaders from the Northern Trust, Western Trust, and NIAS at Chief Executive and Director level.\n\nThe purpose of the summit was to consider the potential impact on these organisations should emergency surgery at Causeway Hospital close and to enable system-wide planning and collaboration ahead of any Ministerial decisions regarding changes to Causeway Hospital’s emergency surgical services. At the meeting it was agreed that further work was required to review patient flows, and an independent analysis will be commissioned to model the way forward. This includes consideration of the opportunities afforded within Causeway Hospital, taking account of available theatre capacity.\n\nIt should be noted that it is planned that there will continue to be surgical services on the Causeway Hospital site including a consultant surgical presence.\n\nPlans also include Causeway continuing to have a Surgical Assessment Unit and the Trust aims to extend its opening hours to enable as many surgical patients to be assessed and treated in Causeway Hospital as possible. National bodies, such as GIRFT suggest that emergency surgical assessment at the front door of hospitals result in 30% fewer general surgery emergency admissions each year, as patients are managed in an ambulatory way.\n\nCauseway will also maintain its elective ward and theatre sessions and discussions are well underway with the SPPG to expand the elective surgical capacity. These discussions are around commissioning a third inpatient theatre at Causeway Hospital. This will allow the Causeway Hospital to be become a Regional Elective Overnight Stay Unit.\n\nA further update from this work will be due in early March.","answerHtml":"On 18 December 2025, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group chaired an Emergency General Surgery Causeway Summit. This meeting brought together senior leaders from the Northern Trust, Western Trust, and NIAS at Chief Executive and Director level.
The purpose of the summit was to consider the potential impact on these organisations should emergency surgery at Causeway Hospital close and to enable system-wide planning and collaboration ahead of any Ministerial decisions regarding changes to Causeway Hospital’s emergency surgical services. At the meeting it was agreed that further work was required to review patient flows, and an independent analysis will be commissioned to model the way forward. This includes consideration of the opportunities afforded within Causeway Hospital, taking account of available theatre capacity.
It should be noted that it is planned that there will continue to be surgical services on the Causeway Hospital site including a consultant surgical presence.
Plans also include Causeway continuing to have a Surgical Assessment Unit and the Trust aims to extend its opening hours to enable as many surgical patients to be assessed and treated in Causeway Hospital as possible. National bodies, such as GIRFT suggest that emergency surgical assessment at the front door of hospitals result in 30% fewer general surgery emergency admissions each year, as patients are managed in an ambulatory way.
Causeway will also maintain its elective ward and theatre sessions and discussions are well underway with the SPPG to expand the elective surgical capacity. These discussions are around commissioning a third inpatient theatre at Causeway Hospital. This will allow the Causeway Hospital to be become a Regional Elective Overnight Stay Unit.
A further update from this work will be due in early March.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202920%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=464618","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=464618"}},{"id":"457859","reference":"AQW 34851/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-06","answerBy":"2025-11-21","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the data her Department holds on the use of (a) blackmail; (b) coercion; and (c) intimidation, to silence victims of sexual abuse; and (ii) whether this relationship is being considered as part of the Executive’s work to address sexual violence.","answerText":"I recognise that these types of behaviour may be present in some cases of sexual violence.\n\nEach case is unique and is considered on its own merits by the courts, where such behaviours are taken into account when determining the circumstances and the impact of the offence.\n\nHowever, the way in which data is currently collected is limited to offence descriptions. As such, identifying and capturing these behaviours in cases of sexual violence would require a manual review of each individual case, which would be at a disproportionate cost.\n\nMy Department holds data on offence descriptions such as blackmail. However, there is currently no mechanism in place within our data systems to identify whether an offence of this nature is linked to a sexual abuse context.\n\nIn other words, while offences are recorded according to their legal classification, it is not possible to disaggregate or cross-reference those cases to determine if the behaviour of blackmail, coercion, or intimidation was used specifically to silence or control a victim of sexual abuse.\n\nWhile this type of information is not currently available, I recognise that perpetrators of sexual abuse may employ a range of behaviours to threaten, manipulate, or deter victims from coming forward. These may include acts of intimidation or blackmail, which are criminal offences in their own right. Such tactics are part of the wider pattern of control and fear that can prevent victims from seeking help or engaging with the justice process.\n\nWorking with partners, my Department has already put in place, or is working towards, a range of measures under the Gillen Review, the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and under the draft Victims and Witnesses Strategy that are intended to support victims of crime, including victims of sexual violence, through the criminal justice process in order to encourage them to continue to engage with the criminal justice system.\n\nAnyone who believes that they have been a victim of any form of crime, including those linked to sexual abuse, is strongly encouraged to report this to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I recognise that these types of behaviour may be present in some cases of sexual violence.
Each case is unique and is considered on its own merits by the courts, where such behaviours are taken into account when determining the circumstances and the impact of the offence.
However, the way in which data is currently collected is limited to offence descriptions. As such, identifying and capturing these behaviours in cases of sexual violence would require a manual review of each individual case, which would be at a disproportionate cost.
My Department holds data on offence descriptions such as blackmail. However, there is currently no mechanism in place within our data systems to identify whether an offence of this nature is linked to a sexual abuse context.
In other words, while offences are recorded according to their legal classification, it is not possible to disaggregate or cross-reference those cases to determine if the behaviour of blackmail, coercion, or intimidation was used specifically to silence or control a victim of sexual abuse.
While this type of information is not currently available, I recognise that perpetrators of sexual abuse may employ a range of behaviours to threaten, manipulate, or deter victims from coming forward. These may include acts of intimidation or blackmail, which are criminal offences in their own right. Such tactics are part of the wider pattern of control and fear that can prevent victims from seeking help or engaging with the justice process.
Working with partners, my Department has already put in place, or is working towards, a range of measures under the Gillen Review, the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and under the draft Victims and Witnesses Strategy that are intended to support victims of crime, including victims of sexual violence, through the criminal justice process in order to encourage them to continue to engage with the criminal justice system.
Anyone who believes that they have been a victim of any form of crime, including those linked to sexual abuse, is strongly encouraged to report this to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034851%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457859"}},{"id":"457858","reference":"AQW 34850/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-06","answerBy":"2025-11-21","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any plans her Department has to improve public and survivor confidence in the criminal justice system.","answerText":"It is a key priority for me as Justice Minister to increase public confidence in the justice system and my Department is working with criminal justice partners to deliver a significant body of transformational work to achieve this.\n\nI recognise the importance of tackling delay, as one of the biggest challenges facing the criminal justice system, and as an issue which directly impacts confidence in the system. The Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay, which will include full delivery of committal reform, work in the digital arena and early engagement, court remits, and out of court disposals.\n\nI also intend to publish a new Victims and Witnesses of Crime Strategy in the New Year. This is focused on delivering tailored support to victims and witnesses at the right time, and building a balanced, trauma-informed and rights-compliant justice system. One of the strategy’s five pillars is focused on victim rights and raising confidence. The strategy’s Action Plan sets out a detailed programme of work to address the priority areas that were identified through engagement and consultation with victims, witnesses, representative organisations and stakeholders.\n\nIn addition, the Victim and Witness Charters set out the entitlements and services that victims and witnesses of crime in Northern Ireland can expect to receive from the criminal justice system. There have been significant efforts to increase awareness of the Charters by my Department, the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime, and partner organisations. Work is also well advanced on developing a framework for collating and publishing statistical victim data. This will drive performance improvement, but will also help to demonstrate how criminal justice organisations deliver Charter rights, with the aim of increasing transparency and improving confidence.\n\nI also intend to introduce a Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill to the Assembly next April, which will focus on a small number of very significant measures which will have a positive impact on victims and witnesses of crime. The Bill will establish a statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime to represent all victims and witnesses of crime, with robust legislative powers and duties, and with a focus on identifying systemic issues across the criminal justice system and making recommendations for change. It will also include new provisions and protections for victims and witnesses in cases involving serious sexual offences and others in hate crime cases.\n\nMuch work is also being done to protect, support and improve the experiences of particularly vulnerable victims of crime:\n\nmeasures under the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy are intended to protect those at risk, but also to support increased reporting and reduced attrition, by ensuring that victims know they will be listened to and supported, and that robust measures are in place to hold perpetrators to account;\n\ntransformative measures under the Gillen Review are also increasing the confidence of victims of serious sexual crimes. These include:\n\nthe introduction of Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) to provide a safe, comfortable space away from the court building for vulnerable witnesses to give evidence directly to the court from a video link room within the REC. Attending the REC also ensures that the witness will not encounter the defendant or the defendant’s family / supporters in or around the court building on the day of the trial. RECs are intended to reduce the stress of giving evidence and increase their confidence. This is supported by conviction rates for REC cases that consistently sit around 90%, and for the whole of last year was 92%.\n\nmeasures under the Justice (Sexual Offences And Trafficking Victims) NI Act 2022 that make provision for the exclusion of the public from court in serious sexual offence trials and appeal hearings; for the extension of existing lifelong anonymity for victims until 25 years after death; and for increased penalties for breach on anonymity; and\n\nthe establishment of the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) scheme to provide publicly funded legal advice to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases. Since its launch, the scheme has supported over 2,600 adult complainants and has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. An equivalent scheme for children (CSOLA) was launched in February 2025 and has already assisted almost 200 child complainants and their families. Feedback from service users reports that the SOLA scheme has increased their confidence and was a significant influence in their decision to remain engaged with the criminal justice process.\n\nI also recognise that sentencing has an impact on public confidence and I plan to introduce a Sentencing Bill early in the New Year, which will make clear the purposes and principles of sentencing and will rationalise and simplify arrangements for unduly lenient referrals. The Bill will also make provision for a range of other matters, including tariff-setting for murder; create a new offence of assaulting a person who is providing services to the public, performing a public duty or providing a public service; and will increase the maximum penalties for offences of causing death by driving.\n\nI recognise that there are also wider factors that influence public confidence in justice, and so, at a cross-Executive level my officials are working with the Department for Communities, Economy, Education, Health, and the Executive Office to develop a short-term Strategic Framework to deliver tangible outcomes in reducing offending and reoffending before the end of this mandate.\n\nWork is also ongoing with these Departments and with Innovation and Consultancy Services (Department of Finance) to develop a longer-term cross-Executive Strategy, as committed to under the Programme for Government. This is likely to go out to public consultation by the end of the mandate. Given the complex and interrelated socio-economic factors that influence offending— such as homelessness, poverty, mental health, substance misuse, and lack of education and employment opportunities—a collaborative cross-governmental approach is essential. Active and timely participation from each Department will be critical to supporting desistance, achieving long-term change and improving public and survivor confidence.","answerHtml":"It is a key priority for me as Justice Minister to increase public confidence in the justice system and my Department is working with criminal justice partners to deliver a significant body of transformational work to achieve this.
I recognise the importance of tackling delay, as one of the biggest challenges facing the criminal justice system, and as an issue which directly impacts confidence in the system. The Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay, which will include full delivery of committal reform, work in the digital arena and early engagement, court remits, and out of court disposals.
I also intend to publish a new Victims and Witnesses of Crime Strategy in the New Year. This is focused on delivering tailored support to victims and witnesses at the right time, and building a balanced, trauma-informed and rights-compliant justice system. One of the strategy’s five pillars is focused on victim rights and raising confidence. The strategy’s Action Plan sets out a detailed programme of work to address the priority areas that were identified through engagement and consultation with victims, witnesses, representative organisations and stakeholders.
In addition, the Victim and Witness Charters set out the entitlements and services that victims and witnesses of crime in Northern Ireland can expect to receive from the criminal justice system. There have been significant efforts to increase awareness of the Charters by my Department, the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime, and partner organisations. Work is also well advanced on developing a framework for collating and publishing statistical victim data. This will drive performance improvement, but will also help to demonstrate how criminal justice organisations deliver Charter rights, with the aim of increasing transparency and improving confidence.
I also intend to introduce a Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill to the Assembly next April, which will focus on a small number of very significant measures which will have a positive impact on victims and witnesses of crime. The Bill will establish a statutory Commissioner for Victims and Witnesses of Crime to represent all victims and witnesses of crime, with robust legislative powers and duties, and with a focus on identifying systemic issues across the criminal justice system and making recommendations for change. It will also include new provisions and protections for victims and witnesses in cases involving serious sexual offences and others in hate crime cases.
Much work is also being done to protect, support and improve the experiences of particularly vulnerable victims of crime:
measures under the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy are intended to protect those at risk, but also to support increased reporting and reduced attrition, by ensuring that victims know they will be listened to and supported, and that robust measures are in place to hold perpetrators to account;
transformative measures under the Gillen Review are also increasing the confidence of victims of serious sexual crimes. These include:
the introduction of Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) to provide a safe, comfortable space away from the court building for vulnerable witnesses to give evidence directly to the court from a video link room within the REC. Attending the REC also ensures that the witness will not encounter the defendant or the defendant’s family / supporters in or around the court building on the day of the trial. RECs are intended to reduce the stress of giving evidence and increase their confidence. This is supported by conviction rates for REC cases that consistently sit around 90%, and for the whole of last year was 92%.
measures under the Justice (Sexual Offences And Trafficking Victims) NI Act 2022 that make provision for the exclusion of the public from court in serious sexual offence trials and appeal hearings; for the extension of existing lifelong anonymity for victims until 25 years after death; and for increased penalties for breach on anonymity; and
the establishment of the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) scheme to provide publicly funded legal advice to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases. Since its launch, the scheme has supported over 2,600 adult complainants and has received overwhelmingly positive feedback. An equivalent scheme for children (CSOLA) was launched in February 2025 and has already assisted almost 200 child complainants and their families. Feedback from service users reports that the SOLA scheme has increased their confidence and was a significant influence in their decision to remain engaged with the criminal justice process.
I also recognise that sentencing has an impact on public confidence and I plan to introduce a Sentencing Bill early in the New Year, which will make clear the purposes and principles of sentencing and will rationalise and simplify arrangements for unduly lenient referrals. The Bill will also make provision for a range of other matters, including tariff-setting for murder; create a new offence of assaulting a person who is providing services to the public, performing a public duty or providing a public service; and will increase the maximum penalties for offences of causing death by driving.
I recognise that there are also wider factors that influence public confidence in justice, and so, at a cross-Executive level my officials are working with the Department for Communities, Economy, Education, Health, and the Executive Office to develop a short-term Strategic Framework to deliver tangible outcomes in reducing offending and reoffending before the end of this mandate.
Work is also ongoing with these Departments and with Innovation and Consultancy Services (Department of Finance) to develop a longer-term cross-Executive Strategy, as committed to under the Programme for Government. This is likely to go out to public consultation by the end of the mandate. Given the complex and interrelated socio-economic factors that influence offending— such as homelessness, poverty, mental health, substance misuse, and lack of education and employment opportunities—a collaborative cross-governmental approach is essential. Active and timely participation from each Department will be critical to supporting desistance, achieving long-term change and improving public and survivor confidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034850%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457858"}},{"id":"457857","reference":"AQW 34849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-06","answerBy":"2025-11-21","answered":"2025-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail whether the Executive Office plans to prioritise data collection on coercion, intimidation, and blackmail, in cases of sexual abuse in departmental monitoring, and strategy implementation.","answerText":"The Executive Office does not have a role in collecting data on cases of sexual abuse.\n\nThis sits with the Department of Justice and its agencies.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office does not have a role in collecting data on cases of sexual abuse.
This sits with the Department of Justice and its agencies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457857"}},{"id":"457856","reference":"AQW 34848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-06","answerBy":"2025-11-21","answered":"2025-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any provision of Relationships and Sexuality Education that will be delivered under the Executive’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls strategy.","answerText":"Developing healthy, respectful relationships is essential to ensuring that children and young people gain the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to make informed life choices and act responsibly in their relationships and behaviour.\n\nThe Curriculum already places a strong emphasis on healthy relationships and through Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE), schools can play a key role in addressing emerging issues from the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls, such as violence, misogyny, coercive control, and sexual harassment.","answerHtml":"Developing healthy, respectful relationships is essential to ensuring that children and young people gain the knowledge, understanding, and skills needed to make informed life choices and act responsibly in their relationships and behaviour.
The Curriculum already places a strong emphasis on healthy relationships and through Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE), schools can play a key role in addressing emerging issues from the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls, such as violence, misogyny, coercive control, and sexual harassment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457856","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457856"}},{"id":"457855","reference":"AQW 34847/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-06","answerBy":"2025-11-21","answered":"2025-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any measures their Department will take to ensure that the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls strategy is fully implemented and adhered to across all relevant Departments.","answerText":"The Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework sets out a cross-government approach to tackling gender-based violence, with success reliant on coordinated action and clear accountability. As a key priority within the Programme for Government (2024–2027), it underscores the Executive’s firm commitment to driving meaningful change.\n\nWe remain fully committed to delivering the Framework, with oversight provided through the EVAWG Oversight Board, chaired by Junior Minister Reilly and Junior Minister Bunting. Membership includes Permanent Secretaries of all NICS Departments which ensures informed decision making and accountability.Departments are embedding EVAWG principles in all relevant policies, strategies, and service delivery. Progress is subject to regular reporting to Ministers, the Executive, and Assembly Committees. An update on progress of the Strategy is made to the Executive twice a year.\n\nWe will continue to work collaboratively with all Departments to ensure that the Strategy is not only implemented but embedded as a core part of government policy and practice.","answerHtml":"The Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework sets out a cross-government approach to tackling gender-based violence, with success reliant on coordinated action and clear accountability. As a key priority within the Programme for Government (2024–2027), it underscores the Executive’s firm commitment to driving meaningful change.
We remain fully committed to delivering the Framework, with oversight provided through the EVAWG Oversight Board, chaired by Junior Minister Reilly and Junior Minister Bunting. Membership includes Permanent Secretaries of all NICS Departments which ensures informed decision making and accountability.Departments are embedding EVAWG principles in all relevant policies, strategies, and service delivery. Progress is subject to regular reporting to Ministers, the Executive, and Assembly Committees. An update on progress of the Strategy is made to the Executive twice a year.
We will continue to work collaboratively with all Departments to ensure that the Strategy is not only implemented but embedded as a core part of government policy and practice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034847%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457855","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457855"}},{"id":"457430","reference":"AQW 34576/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount of funding allocated to addiction support services in the (i) Northern Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trust, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034576%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457430"}},{"id":"457429","reference":"AQW 34575/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":"2025-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of drug-related deaths recorded in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"NISRA collates data on death registrations as collected by the General Register Office. Drug-related deaths are defined using the UK National Statistics definition where the underlying cause of death recorded on the death certificate is drug poisoning, drug abuse or drug dependence. Drug-related deaths are coded and reported according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) International Classification of Diseases (ICD tenth revision) using codes F11–F16, F18–F19, X40–X44, X60–X64, X85 and Y10–Y14.\n\nThe most recent annual statistics on drug-related deaths cover the registration year 2023. Figures for 2024 are currently being compiled and are expected to be published in early 2026.\n\nTable 1: Number of drug-related1 deaths registered in the East Londonderry Constituency by registration year, 2019 – 2023\n\nYear of Registration\tNumber of Drug-Related Deaths\n2019\t14\n2020\t7\n2021\t12\n2022\t12\n2023\t6\n\nDrug-related deaths are defined using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD tenth revision) codes F11–F16, F18–F19, X40–X44, X60–X64, X85 and Y10–Y14.","answerHtml":"NISRA collates data on death registrations as collected by the General Register Office. Drug-related deaths are defined using the UK National Statistics definition where the underlying cause of death recorded on the death certificate is drug poisoning, drug abuse or drug dependence. Drug-related deaths are coded and reported according to the World Health Organisation (WHO) International Classification of Diseases (ICD tenth revision) using codes F11–F16, F18–F19, X40–X44, X60–X64, X85 and Y10–Y14.
The most recent annual statistics on drug-related deaths cover the registration year 2023. Figures for 2024 are currently being compiled and are expected to be published in early 2026.
Table 1: Number of drug-related1 deaths registered in the East Londonderry Constituency by registration year, 2019 – 2023
| Year of Registration | Number of Drug-Related Deaths |
| 2019 | 14 |
| 2020 | 7 |
| 2021 | 12 |
| 2022 | 12 |
| 2023 | 6 |
Drug-related deaths are defined using the International Classification of Diseases (ICD tenth revision) codes F11–F16, F18–F19, X40–X44, X60–X64, X85 and Y10–Y14.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034575%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457429"}},{"id":"457428","reference":"AQW 34574/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":"2025-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment she has made of the effectiveness of the interdepartmental work with the Department of Health in reducing drug-related deaths, since the launch of the Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery Substance Use Strategy.","answerText":"The Department of Health (DoH) leads on the Substance Use Strategy “Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery” which was co-produced across government departments, including my Department, agencies, health professionals, the community and voluntary sector and service users. This strategy has a specific outcome focussed on harm reduction, including drug deaths.\n\nTo this end, my Department works closely with the PSNI, the Organised Crime Taskforce (OCTF) Drug Sub-Group and DoH on a range of key actions.\n\nThrough the work of the OCTF, my Department supports the ongoing efforts of law enforcement partners to tackle drug-related harm in our communities. The OCTF operates under a strategic structure comprising a Strategy Group—made up of senior representatives from statutory and law enforcement bodies—which provides oversight across several thematic subgroups. One of these, the OCTF Drugs subgroup, is chaired by the PSNI and includes representation from my Department and DoH.\n\nMeeting quarterly, the Drugs subgroup brings together key agencies to coordinate a strategic response to emerging threats related to drug misuse. It also facilitates joint enforcement activity and ensures that those involved in the illicit supply and distribution of drugs are effectively targeted. Notably, drug-related deaths are a standing agenda item at each meeting, reflecting the group's commitment to addressing the most serious consequences of substance misuse.\n\nAnother specific action within the Substance Use Strategy addresses the reduction of violence and intimidation towards drug users by paramilitary and vigilante groups. In support of this, the Public Health Agency was commissioned by the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, alongside DoH, to undertake a scoping exercise on drug-related intimidation across Northern Ireland. This involved extensive engagement with affected individuals, families, and professionals across justice, health, housing, and youth sectors. The resulting Drugs Related Intimidation report NI Drug Related Intimidation in Northern Ireland: Nature, support needs and how to respond | A Summary Report was launched last month at a joint event attended by myself and the Health Minister.\n\nThe DoH-led Drug and Alcohol Monitoring and Information System (DAMIS) is also supported by the Public Health Agency, the PSNI, Forensic Science Northern Ireland, and my Department. DAMIS serves as an early warning mechanism to detect emerging trends in substance use, enabling timely and informed responses. It monitors a range of indicators, including sudden increases in the use of specific drugs, changes in consumption methods, the appearance of new substances, and the emergence of drugs with unexpected or harmful effects. This collaborative approach ensures that relevant information and advice can be rapidly disseminated to those at risk\n\nMy Department is also a member of the Substance Use Strategy Programme Board, chaired by DoH, with this engagement helping to shape policy direction and ensuring that justice-related perspectives are embedded in the development and implementation of the Strategy’s actions, including current and emerging drug-related issues.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health (DoH) leads on the Substance Use Strategy “Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery” which was co-produced across government departments, including my Department, agencies, health professionals, the community and voluntary sector and service users. This strategy has a specific outcome focussed on harm reduction, including drug deaths.
To this end, my Department works closely with the PSNI, the Organised Crime Taskforce (OCTF) Drug Sub-Group and DoH on a range of key actions.
Through the work of the OCTF, my Department supports the ongoing efforts of law enforcement partners to tackle drug-related harm in our communities. The OCTF operates under a strategic structure comprising a Strategy Group—made up of senior representatives from statutory and law enforcement bodies—which provides oversight across several thematic subgroups. One of these, the OCTF Drugs subgroup, is chaired by the PSNI and includes representation from my Department and DoH.
Meeting quarterly, the Drugs subgroup brings together key agencies to coordinate a strategic response to emerging threats related to drug misuse. It also facilitates joint enforcement activity and ensures that those involved in the illicit supply and distribution of drugs are effectively targeted. Notably, drug-related deaths are a standing agenda item at each meeting, reflecting the group's commitment to addressing the most serious consequences of substance misuse.
Another specific action within the Substance Use Strategy addresses the reduction of violence and intimidation towards drug users by paramilitary and vigilante groups. In support of this, the Public Health Agency was commissioned by the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime, alongside DoH, to undertake a scoping exercise on drug-related intimidation across Northern Ireland. This involved extensive engagement with affected individuals, families, and professionals across justice, health, housing, and youth sectors. The resulting Drugs Related Intimidation report NI Drug Related Intimidation in Northern Ireland: Nature, support needs and how to respond | A Summary Report was launched last month at a joint event attended by myself and the Health Minister.
The DoH-led Drug and Alcohol Monitoring and Information System (DAMIS) is also supported by the Public Health Agency, the PSNI, Forensic Science Northern Ireland, and my Department. DAMIS serves as an early warning mechanism to detect emerging trends in substance use, enabling timely and informed responses. It monitors a range of indicators, including sudden increases in the use of specific drugs, changes in consumption methods, the appearance of new substances, and the emergence of drugs with unexpected or harmful effects. This collaborative approach ensures that relevant information and advice can be rapidly disseminated to those at risk
My Department is also a member of the Substance Use Strategy Programme Board, chaired by DoH, with this engagement helping to shape policy direction and ensuring that justice-related perspectives are embedded in the development and implementation of the Strategy’s actions, including current and emerging drug-related issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034574%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457428","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457428"}},{"id":"457427","reference":"AQW 34573/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of addiction treatment beds available in the (i) Northern Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034573%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457427"}},{"id":"457426","reference":"AQW 34572/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-04","answerBy":"2025-11-19","answered":"2025-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what measurable progress has been made against the ten-year Substance Use Strategy in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, since its publication.","answerText":"In line with the regional direction set by the Department’s Substance Use Strategy, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust has partnered with the Public Health Agency (PHA), the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG), and other regional stakeholders to advance a broad range of actions identified as priorities within both the Strategy and the Substance Use Strategic Commissioning and Implementation Plan. Key areas of progress include:\n\nPiloting the Treatment Outcomes Profile (TOP) tool—the regionally agreed outcome measurement tool to be used within the HSC Encompass system. This NHSCT pilot aims to support more outcome-focused data collection and promote effective information sharing and governance across substance use services.\n\nImproving access to treatment and support services for vulnerable women and individuals in the pre- and post-natal period. NHSCT substance use and maternity services are working collaboratively across service boundaries to strengthen links between maternity (including neonatal) and substance use services, ensuring that treatment services actively reduce barriers for women and those with childcare responsibilities.\n\nCollaborating with SPPG and regional partners to implement key recommendations from the Independent Review of Regional Tier 4 Services. This includes working with SPPG and other stakeholders to develop a new service specification in line with a 3-year procurement plan, that will address inconsistencies in referral pathways, improve access to Tier 4 rehabilitation beds, and support the development of a Regional Specialist Assessment, Treatment, and Recovery Service for Substance Use.\n\nReducing substance-related harm through an innovative pharmacy-based pilot, which will provide brief interventions and referrals for individuals at risk from over-the-counter (OTC) analgesic medication in the NHSCT area.\n\nContributing to the Regional Co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Task and Finish Group to develop a comprehensive work plan. This plan will build capacity in both mental health and substance use services, ensuring they are equipped to meet the full needs of individuals with co-occurring issues in the NHSCT area and regionally.\n\nIn support of the strategy, the Department also publishes a regular update on the indicators, available online at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/substance-use-strategy-indicators-summary-report.","answerHtml":"In line with the regional direction set by the Department’s Substance Use Strategy, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust has partnered with the Public Health Agency (PHA), the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG), and other regional stakeholders to advance a broad range of actions identified as priorities within both the Strategy and the Substance Use Strategic Commissioning and Implementation Plan. Key areas of progress include:
Piloting the Treatment Outcomes Profile (TOP) tool—the regionally agreed outcome measurement tool to be used within the HSC Encompass system. This NHSCT pilot aims to support more outcome-focused data collection and promote effective information sharing and governance across substance use services.
Improving access to treatment and support services for vulnerable women and individuals in the pre- and post-natal period. NHSCT substance use and maternity services are working collaboratively across service boundaries to strengthen links between maternity (including neonatal) and substance use services, ensuring that treatment services actively reduce barriers for women and those with childcare responsibilities.
Collaborating with SPPG and regional partners to implement key recommendations from the Independent Review of Regional Tier 4 Services. This includes working with SPPG and other stakeholders to develop a new service specification in line with a 3-year procurement plan, that will address inconsistencies in referral pathways, improve access to Tier 4 rehabilitation beds, and support the development of a Regional Specialist Assessment, Treatment, and Recovery Service for Substance Use.
Reducing substance-related harm through an innovative pharmacy-based pilot, which will provide brief interventions and referrals for individuals at risk from over-the-counter (OTC) analgesic medication in the NHSCT area.
Contributing to the Regional Co-occurring Mental Health and Substance Use Task and Finish Group to develop a comprehensive work plan. This plan will build capacity in both mental health and substance use services, ensuring they are equipped to meet the full needs of individuals with co-occurring issues in the NHSCT area and regionally.
In support of the strategy, the Department also publishes a regular update on the indicators, available online at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/substance-use-strategy-indicators-summary-report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034572%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457426","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457426"}},{"id":"457114","reference":"AQW 34460/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-03","answerBy":"2025-11-18","answered":"2025-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any immediate measures he will introduce to prevent further decline in access to NHS dental care.","answerText":"To improve access to dental care for both registered and unregistered patients I have invested £7million in General Dental Services in 2025/26. The £7million investment is funding the continuation of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme, a 30% enhancement on fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions, and root canal treatments, and an additional £1.6million to support dental practitioners who continue to provide Health Service dental care.\n\nOfficials are also continuing to scope further actions and initiatives aimed at improving access to Health Service dental care for both registered and unregistered patients.","answerHtml":"To improve access to dental care for both registered and unregistered patients I have invested £7million in General Dental Services in 2025/26. The £7million investment is funding the continuation of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme, a 30% enhancement on fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions, and root canal treatments, and an additional £1.6million to support dental practitioners who continue to provide Health Service dental care.
Officials are also continuing to scope further actions and initiatives aimed at improving access to Health Service dental care for both registered and unregistered patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034460%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457114"}},{"id":"457113","reference":"AQW 34459/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-03","answerBy":"2025-11-18","answered":"2025-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he is taking to improve (i) morale among; and (ii) retention of, health service dentists.","answerText":"I acknowledge the challenging environment that dentists are operating under and appreciate the commitment of practitioners who have continued to provide an essential service under difficult circumstances.\n\nWhile I am pleased to have been able to make additional investment in General Dental Services in the last two years, it is clear that significant reform is required to improve the service for both patients and practitioners.\n\nThe opportunities to progress reform in recent years have been limited by a number of factors including available resources and the need to address immediate pressures. I have been clear in my commitment to make progress in this area.\n\nThe reform of General Dental Services has been included in my Department’s Health and Social Care three-year plan. The first step in this process is a cost-of-service review, which is currently underway and will provide a robust evidence base to inform and shape future policy and investment decisions.\n\nCreating an environment that allows dentists to thrive and remain motivated to treat Health Service patients will be key to securing the long-term future of General Dental Service and meeting the Oral Health needs of the people of Norther Ireland.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the challenging environment that dentists are operating under and appreciate the commitment of practitioners who have continued to provide an essential service under difficult circumstances.
While I am pleased to have been able to make additional investment in General Dental Services in the last two years, it is clear that significant reform is required to improve the service for both patients and practitioners.
The opportunities to progress reform in recent years have been limited by a number of factors including available resources and the need to address immediate pressures. I have been clear in my commitment to make progress in this area.
The reform of General Dental Services has been included in my Department’s Health and Social Care three-year plan. The first step in this process is a cost-of-service review, which is currently underway and will provide a robust evidence base to inform and shape future policy and investment decisions.
Creating an environment that allows dentists to thrive and remain motivated to treat Health Service patients will be key to securing the long-term future of General Dental Service and meeting the Oral Health needs of the people of Norther Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034459%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457113"}},{"id":"457112","reference":"AQW 34458/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-03","answerBy":"2025-11-18","answered":"2025-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will review and update General Dental Services fees to reflect the appropriate cost of providing dental care.","answerText":"A cost-of-service review of General Dental Services is currently underway. The review is intended to provide an independent assessment of the actual costs incurred by dental practices in delivering Health Service dental treatments and will inform future decisions on fee structures as part of evidence-based reform.","answerHtml":"A cost-of-service review of General Dental Services is currently underway. The review is intended to provide an independent assessment of the actual costs incurred by dental practices in delivering Health Service dental treatments and will inform future decisions on fee structures as part of evidence-based reform.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034458%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457112"}},{"id":"457111","reference":"AQW 34457/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-03","answerBy":"2025-11-18","answered":"2025-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the timeline and objectives of the General Dental Services Cost of Service Review; and (ii) whether its recommendations will be implemented to ensure the sustainability of NHS dentistry.","answerText":"The cost-of-service review is underway and is expected to be completed by the end of March 2026. It is being carried out by Professor Ciaran O’Neill, Professor of Health Economics at QUB.\n\nThe objective of the review is to identify the cost per hour of running a dentist’s chair to deliver Health Service treatment within a dental surgery in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe outcome will be a report detailing the cost per hour of running a dentist’s chair to deliver Health Service dentistry in a majority Health Service practice in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe review is intended to provide a robust evidence base to inform and shape future policy and investment decisions.","answerHtml":"The cost-of-service review is underway and is expected to be completed by the end of March 2026. It is being carried out by Professor Ciaran O’Neill, Professor of Health Economics at QUB.
The objective of the review is to identify the cost per hour of running a dentist’s chair to deliver Health Service treatment within a dental surgery in Northern Ireland.
The outcome will be a report detailing the cost per hour of running a dentist’s chair to deliver Health Service dentistry in a majority Health Service practice in Northern Ireland.
The review is intended to provide a robust evidence base to inform and shape future policy and investment decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034457%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457111"}},{"id":"457110","reference":"AQW 34456/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-11-03","answerBy":"2025-11-18","answered":"2025-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the British Dental Association’s evidence that current Health Service fees do not cover the cost of providing treatment; and (ii) to detail any action he will take to address this.","answerText":"I acknowledge the British Dental Association’s (BDA) longstanding concerns regarding the adequacy of Health Service dental fees in covering the cost of providing treatment and ensuring the financial viability of Health Service dentistry. That is why I commissioned a cost-of-service review which will help inform the future direction of General Dental Services. The review is intended to provide an independent assessment of the actual costs incurred by dental practices in delivering Health Service dental treatments and represents a critical step towards evidence-based reform.\n\nI am clear that in common with other services, General Dental Services will require sustained effort to ensure sustainability over the longer term. The ability to implement transformative change however is significantly constrained by the Department’s £600 million budget deficit, which limits the scope for transformative change.\n\nDespite this, in June this year I announced £7m investment for 2025/26 aimed at supporting dental practices while longer-term reform is developed. In addition, a further £2.5million has been made available for General Dental Services to offset the impact of increased National Insurance contributions on General Dental Services. These measures reflect my Department’s ongoing commitment to sustaining dental provision, despite significant financial pressures.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the British Dental Association’s (BDA) longstanding concerns regarding the adequacy of Health Service dental fees in covering the cost of providing treatment and ensuring the financial viability of Health Service dentistry. That is why I commissioned a cost-of-service review which will help inform the future direction of General Dental Services. The review is intended to provide an independent assessment of the actual costs incurred by dental practices in delivering Health Service dental treatments and represents a critical step towards evidence-based reform.
I am clear that in common with other services, General Dental Services will require sustained effort to ensure sustainability over the longer term. The ability to implement transformative change however is significantly constrained by the Department’s £600 million budget deficit, which limits the scope for transformative change.
Despite this, in June this year I announced £7m investment for 2025/26 aimed at supporting dental practices while longer-term reform is developed. In addition, a further £2.5million has been made available for General Dental Services to offset the impact of increased National Insurance contributions on General Dental Services. These measures reflect my Department’s ongoing commitment to sustaining dental provision, despite significant financial pressures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034456%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457110"}},{"id":"456643","reference":"AQW 34355/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-24","answerBy":"2025-11-10","answered":"2025-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any engagement his Department has had with farmers regarding the practical challenges of meeting slurry spreading deadlines, during recent wet conditions.","answerText":"My Department has had no representations from, or engagement with, farming representatives or farmers about practical challenges related to slurry spreading regulations during recent wet conditions.\n\nIn September, the average recorded rainfall in Northern Ireland was 144mm, which is higher than average, while the first half of October was generally dry. The summer months prior to this were generally favourable for slurry spreading, allowing most applications to be completed before the autumn and the subsequent closed period.\n\nWhile the closed period is approximately 16 weeks duration, farms are required to have a minimum slurry storage capacity of 22 weeks. This is to ensure farms have sufficient storage capacity to allow for when weather and soil conditions are unsuitable for slurry spreading either side of the closed period.","answerHtml":"My Department has had no representations from, or engagement with, farming representatives or farmers about practical challenges related to slurry spreading regulations during recent wet conditions.
In September, the average recorded rainfall in Northern Ireland was 144mm, which is higher than average, while the first half of October was generally dry. The summer months prior to this were generally favourable for slurry spreading, allowing most applications to be completed before the autumn and the subsequent closed period.
While the closed period is approximately 16 weeks duration, farms are required to have a minimum slurry storage capacity of 22 weeks. This is to ensure farms have sufficient storage capacity to allow for when weather and soil conditions are unsuitable for slurry spreading either side of the closed period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034355%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456643","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456643"}},{"id":"456642","reference":"AQW 34354/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-24","answerBy":"2025-11-10","answered":"2025-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any discussions his Department has had with (i) the Department for Infrastructure; and (ii) NI Water, on taking a coordinated approach to reducing agricultural and wastewater pollution, in the last two years.","answerText":"In June 2025, I discussed my department’s proposal to withdraw from the Statement of Regulatory Principles and Intent (SORPI) with the Minister for the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). My department had notified the DfI and Northern Ireland Water (NIW) in April 2025, inviting comments; both responded. I will continue discussions with the DfI Minister on this matter in the coming weeks.\n\nI engaged with the DfI Minister during preparations for the Third Cycle River Basin Management Plan, published in June 2025. My officials are collaborating with DfI and NIW to address wastewater-related water quality impacts. This work will be strengthened by the outputs from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s wastewater regulatory reform programme. I have met with the DfI Minister on these matters and will continue discussions.","answerHtml":"In June 2025, I discussed my department’s proposal to withdraw from the Statement of Regulatory Principles and Intent (SORPI) with the Minister for the Department for Infrastructure (DfI). My department had notified the DfI and Northern Ireland Water (NIW) in April 2025, inviting comments; both responded. I will continue discussions with the DfI Minister on this matter in the coming weeks.
I engaged with the DfI Minister during preparations for the Third Cycle River Basin Management Plan, published in June 2025. My officials are collaborating with DfI and NIW to address wastewater-related water quality impacts. This work will be strengthened by the outputs from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s wastewater regulatory reform programme. I have met with the DfI Minister on these matters and will continue discussions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034354%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456642","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456642"}},{"id":"456641","reference":"AQW 34353/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-24","answerBy":"2025-11-10","answered":"2025-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail how his Department ensures consistency and fairness in enforcement between agricultural and non-agricultural pollution incidents.","answerText":"My Department’s approach to enforcement is underpinned by the DAERA Enforcement Policy, which includes the principles of proportionality and consistency in relation to the significance of the offence. All reports of water pollution are investigated as potentially criminal offences with appropriate enforcement applied regardless of the business sector involved.","answerHtml":"My Department’s approach to enforcement is underpinned by the DAERA Enforcement Policy, which includes the principles of proportionality and consistency in relation to the significance of the offence. All reports of water pollution are investigated as potentially criminal offences with appropriate enforcement applied regardless of the business sector involved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034353%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456641","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456641"}},{"id":"456640","reference":"AQW 34352/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-24","answerBy":"2025-11-10","answered":"2025-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any assessment that has been made of the effectiveness of the slurry spreading closed period, in improving water quality.","answerText":"The closed period for slurry spreading is implemented by the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) Regulations which are reviewed and amended where necessary on a four yearly basis to ensure they remain effective.\n\nA comprehensive scientific review of the current closed period for slurry spreading was carried out by Agri Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in 2020 which concluded that the current evidence base supports the closed period as the most effective strategy for minimising the risks associated with slurry spreading from 15th October to 31st January.\n\nThe fourth ongoing NAP review is based on this scientific evidence and proposes that the current closed spreading period dates remain effective for the region.","answerHtml":"The closed period for slurry spreading is implemented by the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) Regulations which are reviewed and amended where necessary on a four yearly basis to ensure they remain effective.
A comprehensive scientific review of the current closed period for slurry spreading was carried out by Agri Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) in 2020 which concluded that the current evidence base supports the closed period as the most effective strategy for minimising the risks associated with slurry spreading from 15th October to 31st January.
The fourth ongoing NAP review is based on this scientific evidence and proposes that the current closed spreading period dates remain effective for the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034352%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456640","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456640"}},{"id":"456639","reference":"AQW 34351/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-24","answerBy":"2025-11-10","answered":"2025-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail how his Department plans to ensure that slurry spreading regulations remain appropriate, in light of changing weather and climate patterns.","answerText":"The slurry spreading regulations are contained within the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) Regulations which contain a range of measures on the storage, spreading and management of livestock manures and chemical fertilisers. The NAP Regulations are reviewed on a four yearly basis to ensure they remain effective and are amended where necessary.\n\nThe fourth NAP review is currently underway and has assessed the slurry spreading components of the regulations to ensure they remain appropriate. Several revisions have been proposed including a reduced maximum application rate in October and February and increased use of Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment (LESSE).\n\nA slurry spreading information system is also being considered. This would help support implementation of the requirement in the current regulations which prohibits slurry spreading when heavy rain is forecast within 48 hours.","answerHtml":"The slurry spreading regulations are contained within the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) Regulations which contain a range of measures on the storage, spreading and management of livestock manures and chemical fertilisers. The NAP Regulations are reviewed on a four yearly basis to ensure they remain effective and are amended where necessary.
The fourth NAP review is currently underway and has assessed the slurry spreading components of the regulations to ensure they remain appropriate. Several revisions have been proposed including a reduced maximum application rate in October and February and increased use of Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment (LESSE).
A slurry spreading information system is also being considered. This would help support implementation of the requirement in the current regulations which prohibits slurry spreading when heavy rain is forecast within 48 hours.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034351%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456639","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456639"}},{"id":"456399","reference":"AQW 34219/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-23","answerBy":"2025-11-07","answered":"2025-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment his Department has made, of the impact of delays in autism diagnoses, on children’s access to special educational needs support in schools.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that with the implementation of the Local IMPACT Teams, a delay in autism diagnosis should not prevent a child or young person from receiving appropriate support in school.\n\nLocal IMPACT Teams offer a wide range of support to schools at both the whole-school level and Stage 1 and 2 of the SEN Code of Practice. This includes access to autism advice lines for educational settings and parents, autism-specific training for staff, drop-in clinics, and solution-focused hubs. These resources are designed to help schools respond effectively to the needs of autistic children and young people, regardless of where they are in their diagnostic journey. This process is needs-led, meaning that a diagnosis of autism is not required for a child to receive support. Instead, provision is based on the presenting needs of the child or young person.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that with the implementation of the Local IMPACT Teams, a delay in autism diagnosis should not prevent a child or young person from receiving appropriate support in school.
Local IMPACT Teams offer a wide range of support to schools at both the whole-school level and Stage 1 and 2 of the SEN Code of Practice. This includes access to autism advice lines for educational settings and parents, autism-specific training for staff, drop-in clinics, and solution-focused hubs. These resources are designed to help schools respond effectively to the needs of autistic children and young people, regardless of where they are in their diagnostic journey. This process is needs-led, meaning that a diagnosis of autism is not required for a child to receive support. Instead, provision is based on the presenting needs of the child or young person.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034219%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456399","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456399"}},{"id":"456398","reference":"AQW 34218/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-23","answerBy":"2025-11-07","answered":"2025-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department ensures that individuals who receive a private autism diagnosis have access to the same supports and services as those diagnosed through Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"Health and Social care Trusts follow the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), to manage autism referrals. IEAP is a regional guidance document issued by the DHSSPS, updated in June 2020.\n\nThe purpose of the Protocol is to define the roles and responsibilities of all those involved in the elective pathway, to set out how data should be recorded and reported, and to outline good practice to assist staff in the effective management of outpatient appointments, diagnostic, elective admissions and Allied Health Professional (AHP) bookings, including waiting list management. Referrals are managed in line with clinical and chronological need.\n\nIEAP allows for clinical discretion to be made as to whether to discharge or reappoint patients following non-attendance or repeated cancellations. Flexibility can be exercised by administration staff for unforeseen circumstances which result in non-attendance e.g. family bereavement.\n\nIEAP guidelines encourage the timeliness, equity and appropriateness of treatment for all patients/clients. Referrals for autism assessment are defined as routine, and therefore under IEAP are managed in chronological order by referral date.\n\nAccess to HSC ASD services and supports is through the waiting list in each Trust. Service users on an ASD waiting list who seek a private diagnosis or are accepted onto an ASD waiting list with a private diagnosis are managed in chronological order of their referral, in line with IEAP guidelines. Trusts will evaluate the private assessment process against compliance with National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. If the diagnostic assessment complies with NICE guidelines, the diagnosis will be accepted and ongoing support will be provided. If the assessment does not meet with NICE guidelines, HSC clinicians will complete the diagnosis.\n\nHaving a private diagnosis will not affect an individual’s position on the waiting list for assessment.","answerHtml":"Health and Social care Trusts follow the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP), to manage autism referrals. IEAP is a regional guidance document issued by the DHSSPS, updated in June 2020.
The purpose of the Protocol is to define the roles and responsibilities of all those involved in the elective pathway, to set out how data should be recorded and reported, and to outline good practice to assist staff in the effective management of outpatient appointments, diagnostic, elective admissions and Allied Health Professional (AHP) bookings, including waiting list management. Referrals are managed in line with clinical and chronological need.
IEAP allows for clinical discretion to be made as to whether to discharge or reappoint patients following non-attendance or repeated cancellations. Flexibility can be exercised by administration staff for unforeseen circumstances which result in non-attendance e.g. family bereavement.
IEAP guidelines encourage the timeliness, equity and appropriateness of treatment for all patients/clients. Referrals for autism assessment are defined as routine, and therefore under IEAP are managed in chronological order by referral date.
Access to HSC ASD services and supports is through the waiting list in each Trust. Service users on an ASD waiting list who seek a private diagnosis or are accepted onto an ASD waiting list with a private diagnosis are managed in chronological order of their referral, in line with IEAP guidelines. Trusts will evaluate the private assessment process against compliance with National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines. If the diagnostic assessment complies with NICE guidelines, the diagnosis will be accepted and ongoing support will be provided. If the assessment does not meet with NICE guidelines, HSC clinicians will complete the diagnosis.
Having a private diagnosis will not affect an individual’s position on the waiting list for assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034218%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456398","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456398"}},{"id":"456397","reference":"AQW 34217/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-23","answerBy":"2025-11-07","answered":"2025-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he is taking to increase assessment provision and reduce waiting times for autism diagnosis across all Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"On the 22 May my Department published the Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework for public consultation. The Framework promotes a person centred and needs based care pathway that will allow for a holistic early offer of support to help with presenting needs.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts are reviewing and refining assessment pathways to reduce clinical time per case while maintaining quality. Assessments are aligned with NICE guidelines to ensure consistency and clinical robustness. Plans are ongoing with PHA and Child Health colleagues to develop regionally defined neurodevelopmental pathways. This will allow earlier intervention needs to be assessed and help define service capacity requirements.\n\nTo promote a specific focus on Adult pathways, a dedicated project lead for Adult Autism was appointed in March 2025. Since recruitment, they have been working with Trusts to map current diagnostic and support pathways, and hosted a regional workshop on 2nd July to explore steps that can be taken to manage waiting lists and reduce variation within existing resources.\n\nDepartment officials meet monthly with HSC Trusts Heads of ASD Services. These meetings are structured separately for adult and children’s services and provide a forum where professionals can participate in regional discussion to explore demand-capacity challenges and consider opportunities for standardised pathways. Services are observed to be adapting to increasing complexity in referrals characterised by more children presenting with comorbid ASD and ADHD and requiring more intensive assessment accordingly.","answerHtml":"On the 22 May my Department published the Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework for public consultation. The Framework promotes a person centred and needs based care pathway that will allow for a holistic early offer of support to help with presenting needs.
Health and Social Care Trusts are reviewing and refining assessment pathways to reduce clinical time per case while maintaining quality. Assessments are aligned with NICE guidelines to ensure consistency and clinical robustness. Plans are ongoing with PHA and Child Health colleagues to develop regionally defined neurodevelopmental pathways. This will allow earlier intervention needs to be assessed and help define service capacity requirements.
To promote a specific focus on Adult pathways, a dedicated project lead for Adult Autism was appointed in March 2025. Since recruitment, they have been working with Trusts to map current diagnostic and support pathways, and hosted a regional workshop on 2nd July to explore steps that can be taken to manage waiting lists and reduce variation within existing resources.
Department officials meet monthly with HSC Trusts Heads of ASD Services. These meetings are structured separately for adult and children’s services and provide a forum where professionals can participate in regional discussion to explore demand-capacity challenges and consider opportunities for standardised pathways. Services are observed to be adapting to increasing complexity in referrals characterised by more children presenting with comorbid ASD and ADHD and requiring more intensive assessment accordingly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034217%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456397","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456397"}},{"id":"456396","reference":"AQW 34216/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-23","answerBy":"2025-11-07","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment he has made of the impact that reliance on private autism diagnoses is having on equality of access to services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034216%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456396"}},{"id":"456395","reference":"AQW 34215/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-23","answerBy":"2025-11-07","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure consistency in clinical standards between private and health service autism assessment services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034215%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456395","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456395"}},{"id":"456190","reference":"AQW 34123/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-22","answerBy":"2025-11-06","answered":"2025-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) what assessment has been made of the impact of fireworks on farm animals and wildlife; and (ii) whether further measures are being considered to mitigate that impact.","answerText":"I am aware of the potential impact from using fireworks on all animals, especially during the Halloween season. My Department conducts a social media campaign prior to Halloween to inform the public about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and to offer advice on reducing stress and anxiety for animals.\n\nThe Department of Justice is the licensing authority for fireworks in Northern Ireland. It has advised that it is conscious of the impact that fireworks can have on animals and that where circumstances require, a fireworks licence may be issued with a condition that landowners/farmers are informed in advance of the firework display.\n\nThrough annual Halloween messages, and information available all year round on the government services webpage NI Direct, the Department of Justice also reminds the public to be considerate to neighbours and animals when using fireworks, as well as raising awareness that some fireworks manufacturers have a range of low noise fireworks available to purchase.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the potential impact from using fireworks on all animals, especially during the Halloween season. My Department conducts a social media campaign prior to Halloween to inform the public about the impact of fireworks on animal welfare and to offer advice on reducing stress and anxiety for animals.
The Department of Justice is the licensing authority for fireworks in Northern Ireland. It has advised that it is conscious of the impact that fireworks can have on animals and that where circumstances require, a fireworks licence may be issued with a condition that landowners/farmers are informed in advance of the firework display.
Through annual Halloween messages, and information available all year round on the government services webpage NI Direct, the Department of Justice also reminds the public to be considerate to neighbours and animals when using fireworks, as well as raising awareness that some fireworks manufacturers have a range of low noise fireworks available to purchase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034123%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456190"}},{"id":"456189","reference":"AQW 34122/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-22","answerBy":"2025-11-06","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any steps her Department is taking to ensure the public clearly understand the laws governing fireworks use and the potential impact on animals and vulnerable people.","answerText":"Information on fireworks, including the licensing requirements and fireworks safety, is available all year round on the government services webpage nidirect.\n\nHalloween is the busiest time of year for firework displays and in September I issued my annual reminder to be considerate to others, especially vulnerable people and animals, when using fireworks. As Halloween approaches, regular reminders are being issued by the Department and other agencies, such as PSNI, NIFRS and local councils, promoting the firework safety messages via social media platforms.\n\nThe Department’s messages encourage the public to follow the law, keep fireworks safe and be considerate to others and also advises that low-noise fireworks are available and, by making a simple change it could help make Halloween more enjoyable for neighbours and reduce the distress to animals.","answerHtml":"Information on fireworks, including the licensing requirements and fireworks safety, is available all year round on the government services webpage nidirect.
Halloween is the busiest time of year for firework displays and in September I issued my annual reminder to be considerate to others, especially vulnerable people and animals, when using fireworks. As Halloween approaches, regular reminders are being issued by the Department and other agencies, such as PSNI, NIFRS and local councils, promoting the firework safety messages via social media platforms.
The Department’s messages encourage the public to follow the law, keep fireworks safe and be considerate to others and also advises that low-noise fireworks are available and, by making a simple change it could help make Halloween more enjoyable for neighbours and reduce the distress to animals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034122%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456189"}},{"id":"456188","reference":"AQW 34121/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-22","answerBy":"2025-11-06","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has made of the effectiveness of current fireworks licensing arrangements, in preventing misuse and protecting animal welfare.","answerText":"I have no plans for an assessment of the existing fireworks licensing arrangements. The current regulations provide a robust framework that seeks to ensure fireworks are sold and bought responsibly for use by the public.\n\nA condition can be added to any licence, where appropriate, to notify neighbours and/or animal owners e.g. farmers in advance of the display. Information is available year-round on the nidirect fireworks information webpage reminding the public to be considerate to others when using fireworks, especially vulnerable people and animals.\n\nThe licensing system aids partners, including PSNI, to identify unlicensed and illegal fireworks use. Offences committed under the firework regulations may result in a fine of up to £5,000, or a prison sentence, or both.\n\nAny concerns about the misuse of fireworks should be reported to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"I have no plans for an assessment of the existing fireworks licensing arrangements. The current regulations provide a robust framework that seeks to ensure fireworks are sold and bought responsibly for use by the public.
A condition can be added to any licence, where appropriate, to notify neighbours and/or animal owners e.g. farmers in advance of the display. Information is available year-round on the nidirect fireworks information webpage reminding the public to be considerate to others when using fireworks, especially vulnerable people and animals.
The licensing system aids partners, including PSNI, to identify unlicensed and illegal fireworks use. Offences committed under the firework regulations may result in a fine of up to £5,000, or a prison sentence, or both.
Any concerns about the misuse of fireworks should be reported to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034121%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456188"}},{"id":"456187","reference":"AQW 34120/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-22","answerBy":"2025-11-06","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she will engage with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to develop a coordinated approach to reducing the impact of fireworks on animals.","answerText":"The Department is conscious of the impact that fireworks can have on animals. Where circumstances require, a fireworks licence may be issued with a condition that landowners/farmers are informed in advance of the firework display.\n\nThrough my annual Halloween messages, and our government services webpage nidirect, my Department reminds the public to be considerate to neighbours and animals when using fireworks, as well as raising awareness that some fireworks manufacturers have a range of low noise fireworks available to purchase.\n\nMy Department welcomes the views or input from colleagues in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs; however, I am not currently considering a change to the law on fireworks in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Department is conscious of the impact that fireworks can have on animals. Where circumstances require, a fireworks licence may be issued with a condition that landowners/farmers are informed in advance of the firework display.
Through my annual Halloween messages, and our government services webpage nidirect, my Department reminds the public to be considerate to neighbours and animals when using fireworks, as well as raising awareness that some fireworks manufacturers have a range of low noise fireworks available to purchase.
My Department welcomes the views or input from colleagues in the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs; however, I am not currently considering a change to the law on fireworks in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034120%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456187"}},{"id":"456186","reference":"AQW 34119/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-22","answerBy":"2025-11-06","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she will consider further restricting the use of fireworks to specific times of year or licensed community events, to ensure they are used safely and to reduce distress to animals and vulnerable people.","answerText":"My Department is not currently considering a review of the legal framework, which seeks to ensure fireworks are sold and bought responsibly for use by the public. The Department grants licences for fireworks displays throughout the year for various celebrations.\n\nApplications are made for private functions, community events and also from those who wish to have a display at their private address. Halloween is the busiest time of year for fireworks applications from the general public. Appropriate checks are carried out, and a licence will only be issued when it has been deemed safe to do so. A fireworks licence includes conditions on use, including date and time restrictions on when the fireworks can be used.\n\nThere is a balance to be struck between those who enjoy fireworks and those who do not.\n\nInformation on firework safety and the availability of low noise fireworks is available all year round on the government services webpage nidirect. In a recent press release I urged people to be mindful of the whole community particularly vulnerable people and animals when using fireworks.\n\nAny concerns about the misuse of fireworks or the purchase of fireworks without a valid licence should be reported directly to the PSNI who enforce any breaches of regulations.","answerHtml":"My Department is not currently considering a review of the legal framework, which seeks to ensure fireworks are sold and bought responsibly for use by the public. The Department grants licences for fireworks displays throughout the year for various celebrations.
Applications are made for private functions, community events and also from those who wish to have a display at their private address. Halloween is the busiest time of year for fireworks applications from the general public. Appropriate checks are carried out, and a licence will only be issued when it has been deemed safe to do so. A fireworks licence includes conditions on use, including date and time restrictions on when the fireworks can be used.
There is a balance to be struck between those who enjoy fireworks and those who do not.
Information on firework safety and the availability of low noise fireworks is available all year round on the government services webpage nidirect. In a recent press release I urged people to be mindful of the whole community particularly vulnerable people and animals when using fireworks.
Any concerns about the misuse of fireworks or the purchase of fireworks without a valid licence should be reported directly to the PSNI who enforce any breaches of regulations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034119%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=456186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=456186"}},{"id":"455945","reference":"AQW 34009/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-21","answerBy":"2025-11-05","answered":"2025-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the steps her Department is taking to align apprenticeship availability with regional workforce demand, as identified in the Skills Barometer 2023–2033.","answerText":"My Department’s funded apprenticeship programmes are demand-led, with employers establishing apprenticeship opportunities in line with business need.\n\nApprenticeships are delivered by a regional network of training providers who are in tune with local labour market requirements and are able to respond to current and anticipated demand from employers. The number of training providers delivering the ApprenticeshipsNI programme was recently expanded by a further 10 organisations, helping to further increase regional provision.\n\nThe Department collaborates with 18 established Sectoral Partnerships to design apprenticeships, from Level 2 to Level 7, that address current industry needs and future labour requirements highlighted by the Skills Barometer.","answerHtml":"My Department’s funded apprenticeship programmes are demand-led, with employers establishing apprenticeship opportunities in line with business need.
Apprenticeships are delivered by a regional network of training providers who are in tune with local labour market requirements and are able to respond to current and anticipated demand from employers. The number of training providers delivering the ApprenticeshipsNI programme was recently expanded by a further 10 organisations, helping to further increase regional provision.
The Department collaborates with 18 established Sectoral Partnerships to design apprenticeships, from Level 2 to Level 7, that address current industry needs and future labour requirements highlighted by the Skills Barometer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034009%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455945"}},{"id":"455944","reference":"AQW 34008/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-21","answerBy":"2025-11-05","answered":"2025-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the action her Department is taking to ensure that young people with special educational needs are not excluded from apprenticeship opportunities, due to difficulties in securing employer placements.","answerText":"In my Statement to the Assembly in June, I outlined my proposed reforms which, subject to the necessary investment, will improve and expand my Department’s pathways and supports for school leavers with special educational needs (SEN). I am committed to making progress on this important issue, which is also reflected as a priority in the Programme for Government.\n\nSecuring funding for new and enhanced provision is crucial. My officials have led on the development of a collaborative bid to the Transformation Fund, in partnership with the Departments of Health, Communities, Education and Infrastructure. That Bid includes provision for the development of enhanced Transitions support and a SEN Apprenticeships Model. I have also ensured it is reflected in my Department’s Spending Review bids.\n\nApprenticeships are built on the principle of employment first, meaning individuals are hired into substantive roles from the outset and gain skills through a combination of work-based learning and formal training.\n\nHowever, we know employment rates for SEN leavers are too low. To address this, our Apprenticeship Action Plan, published in August 2025, includes the Supported Apprenticeship pilot, which will be designed to maximise apprentices’ potential within employment, considering the range of factors that impact participation, employment and achievement.\n\nAdditionally, the Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund, supports collaborative projects to design innovative practices for under-represented groups, including those with disabilities, to improve participation and address placement barriers. The fund has very intentionally brought together employers, educational institutions, voluntary and community organisations, and government to bring collective expertise to the table to create pathways to success and supportive environments that enable individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.\n\nMy Department has also worked closely with the Department for Communities on the development of the draft Disability and Work Strategy which is currently out for consultation. The Strategy includes several actions and commitments for which my Department has ownership under the theme of “Inclusive Skills, Careers, and Educational transitions”, aligning with efforts to enhance opportunities for all, including those with special educational needs.","answerHtml":"In my Statement to the Assembly in June, I outlined my proposed reforms which, subject to the necessary investment, will improve and expand my Department’s pathways and supports for school leavers with special educational needs (SEN). I am committed to making progress on this important issue, which is also reflected as a priority in the Programme for Government.
Securing funding for new and enhanced provision is crucial. My officials have led on the development of a collaborative bid to the Transformation Fund, in partnership with the Departments of Health, Communities, Education and Infrastructure. That Bid includes provision for the development of enhanced Transitions support and a SEN Apprenticeships Model. I have also ensured it is reflected in my Department’s Spending Review bids.
Apprenticeships are built on the principle of employment first, meaning individuals are hired into substantive roles from the outset and gain skills through a combination of work-based learning and formal training.
However, we know employment rates for SEN leavers are too low. To address this, our Apprenticeship Action Plan, published in August 2025, includes the Supported Apprenticeship pilot, which will be designed to maximise apprentices’ potential within employment, considering the range of factors that impact participation, employment and achievement.
Additionally, the Apprenticeship Inclusion Challenge Fund, supports collaborative projects to design innovative practices for under-represented groups, including those with disabilities, to improve participation and address placement barriers. The fund has very intentionally brought together employers, educational institutions, voluntary and community organisations, and government to bring collective expertise to the table to create pathways to success and supportive environments that enable individuals to thrive and reach their full potential.
My Department has also worked closely with the Department for Communities on the development of the draft Disability and Work Strategy which is currently out for consultation. The Strategy includes several actions and commitments for which my Department has ownership under the theme of “Inclusive Skills, Careers, and Educational transitions”, aligning with efforts to enhance opportunities for all, including those with special educational needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034008%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455944"}},{"id":"455943","reference":"AQW 34007/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-21","answerBy":"2025-11-05","answered":"2025-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department provides dedicated support or incentives for employers who take on apprentices with special educational needs.","answerText":"In my Statement to the Assembly in June, I outlined proposed reforms which, subject to the necessary investment, will improve and expand my Department’s pathways and supports for school leavers with special educational needs (SEN). I am committed to making progress on this important issue, which is also reflected as a priority in the Programme for Government.\n\nSecuring funding for new and enhanced provision is crucial. My officials have led on the development of a collaborative bid to the Transformation Fund, in partnership with the Departments of Health, Communities, Education and Infrastructure. That Bid includes provision for the development of enhanced Transitions support and a SEN Apprenticeships Model. I have also ensured it is reflected in my Department’s Spending Review bids.\n\nOn the current apprenticeship model, an incentive payment is available for employers upon the successful achievement of a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework. This payment ranges from £670 to £2,008 depending on the occupational area.\n\nWhilst there are currently no additional dedicated payments specifically for employers taking on SEN apprentices, apprentices with a disability are supported.\n\nDisability Support Suppliers are contracted by the Department to work in conjunction with training suppliers delivering the ApprenticeshipsNI Programme and, a disability supplement may be payable to the Training Contractor to provide additional resources in terms of training time, equipment, or support for the apprentice to benefit fully from training.\n\nSimilarly, disability support is made available to eligible participants to help them overcome the barriers that they may face when accessing the off the job training element of the Higher-Level Apprenticeship programme. Training Providers may submit a request on behalf of participants for support such as non-medical help, specialist equipment, other general support, or a combination of the above.\n\nAdditionally, apprentices with disabilities, including SEN, as employees are eligible for work-based support from the Department for Communities (DfC) where required, such as Access to Work funding for workplace adjustments. DfE also provides training support to address disability-related needs, ensuring employers receive the necessary resources to support these apprentices effectively.\n\nLooking forward, my Apprenticeship Action Plan, published in August 2025, includes the Supported Apprenticeship pilot, which will be designed to maximise apprentices’ potential within employment, considering the range of factors that impact participation, employment and achievement.","answerHtml":"In my Statement to the Assembly in June, I outlined proposed reforms which, subject to the necessary investment, will improve and expand my Department’s pathways and supports for school leavers with special educational needs (SEN). I am committed to making progress on this important issue, which is also reflected as a priority in the Programme for Government.
Securing funding for new and enhanced provision is crucial. My officials have led on the development of a collaborative bid to the Transformation Fund, in partnership with the Departments of Health, Communities, Education and Infrastructure. That Bid includes provision for the development of enhanced Transitions support and a SEN Apprenticeships Model. I have also ensured it is reflected in my Department’s Spending Review bids.
On the current apprenticeship model, an incentive payment is available for employers upon the successful achievement of a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework. This payment ranges from £670 to £2,008 depending on the occupational area.
Whilst there are currently no additional dedicated payments specifically for employers taking on SEN apprentices, apprentices with a disability are supported.
Disability Support Suppliers are contracted by the Department to work in conjunction with training suppliers delivering the ApprenticeshipsNI Programme and, a disability supplement may be payable to the Training Contractor to provide additional resources in terms of training time, equipment, or support for the apprentice to benefit fully from training.
Similarly, disability support is made available to eligible participants to help them overcome the barriers that they may face when accessing the off the job training element of the Higher-Level Apprenticeship programme. Training Providers may submit a request on behalf of participants for support such as non-medical help, specialist equipment, other general support, or a combination of the above.
Additionally, apprentices with disabilities, including SEN, as employees are eligible for work-based support from the Department for Communities (DfC) where required, such as Access to Work funding for workplace adjustments. DfE also provides training support to address disability-related needs, ensuring employers receive the necessary resources to support these apprentices effectively.
Looking forward, my Apprenticeship Action Plan, published in August 2025, includes the Supported Apprenticeship pilot, which will be designed to maximise apprentices’ potential within employment, considering the range of factors that impact participation, employment and achievement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034007%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455943"}},{"id":"455942","reference":"AQW 34006/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-21","answerBy":"2025-11-05","answered":"2025-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department has assessed the financial or administrative barriers preventing small and medium-sized employers from engaging in apprenticeship schemes.","answerText":"My Department works closely with employers to develop the apprenticeship system through a wide range of sectoral partnerships and regional groups to support the design and promotion of apprenticeships.\n\nParticipation in the ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher-Level Apprenticeship programmes is at an all-time high, with ApprenticeshipsNI starts rising by 70% from 2019/20 to 2023/24. Higher Level Apprenticeship starts at FE colleges have increased by almost 200% from 2017/18 to 2023/24, while HLA starts at our universities have risen by over 130% from 2018/19 to 2022/23.\n\nThis suggests that many employers are turning to apprenticeships. However, a key benefit of apprenticeships is that employers are developing talent in line with their needs. Whilst the delivery model of centrally contracted providers seeks to minimise adminstative burdens, the development of talent through on- the-job learning brings a degree of financial and development focus within employers – which is more challanging for smaller employers.\n\nThe Apprenticeships Action Plan seeks to build on the success of the apprenticeship system to enable more employers to access and benefit from apprenticeships. It includes actions to help more employers recognise that investing in an apprentice is of longer term beneft to the business; a commitment to undertake a strategic review and research into the effectiveness and experience of apprenticeships, including any barriers experienced by employers; and the need to provide the specific support employers need with a commitment to pilot Apprenticeship Navigators to support SMEs employing their first apprentices.","answerHtml":"My Department works closely with employers to develop the apprenticeship system through a wide range of sectoral partnerships and regional groups to support the design and promotion of apprenticeships.
Participation in the ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher-Level Apprenticeship programmes is at an all-time high, with ApprenticeshipsNI starts rising by 70% from 2019/20 to 2023/24. Higher Level Apprenticeship starts at FE colleges have increased by almost 200% from 2017/18 to 2023/24, while HLA starts at our universities have risen by over 130% from 2018/19 to 2022/23.
This suggests that many employers are turning to apprenticeships. However, a key benefit of apprenticeships is that employers are developing talent in line with their needs. Whilst the delivery model of centrally contracted providers seeks to minimise adminstative burdens, the development of talent through on- the-job learning brings a degree of financial and development focus within employers – which is more challanging for smaller employers.
The Apprenticeships Action Plan seeks to build on the success of the apprenticeship system to enable more employers to access and benefit from apprenticeships. It includes actions to help more employers recognise that investing in an apprentice is of longer term beneft to the business; a commitment to undertake a strategic review and research into the effectiveness and experience of apprenticeships, including any barriers experienced by employers; and the need to provide the specific support employers need with a commitment to pilot Apprenticeship Navigators to support SMEs employing their first apprentices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034006%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455942"}},{"id":"455941","reference":"AQW 34005/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-21","answerBy":"2025-11-05","answered":"2025-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she plans to introduce new incentives, such as wage subsidies or tax relief, to encourage employers to take on apprentices, particularly in trades and technical sectors experiencing shortages.","answerText":"My Department funds the directed, off-the-job training component of apprenticeships, with annual funding in the region of £48 million across the ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes. This funding is focused on ensuring that employers are not financially liable for the delivery of apprenticeship training.\n\nBusinesses are also eligible for an employer incentive payment upon the apprentice’s successful achievement of a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework, ranging from £670 to £2,008 depending on the occupational area. This is a 20% increase under ApprenticeshipsNI 2025 compared to the previous ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 programme. This incentive is designed to encourage employers to support their apprentices through to full apprenticeship completion.\n\nIn addition, employers in the North do not need to pay Class 1 National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, provided certain conditions are satisfied.\n\nTax relief sits outside the remit of my Department. However, in the recently published Apprenticeship Action Plan there are a range of measures to support the continued growth of the apprenticeships system including piloting new Apprenticeship Navigators help support business employ their first apprentice.","answerHtml":"My Department funds the directed, off-the-job training component of apprenticeships, with annual funding in the region of £48 million across the ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes. This funding is focused on ensuring that employers are not financially liable for the delivery of apprenticeship training.
Businesses are also eligible for an employer incentive payment upon the apprentice’s successful achievement of a Level 2 or Level 3 apprenticeship framework, ranging from £670 to £2,008 depending on the occupational area. This is a 20% increase under ApprenticeshipsNI 2025 compared to the previous ApprenticeshipsNI 2021 programme. This incentive is designed to encourage employers to support their apprentices through to full apprenticeship completion.
In addition, employers in the North do not need to pay Class 1 National Insurance contributions for apprentices under 25, provided certain conditions are satisfied.
Tax relief sits outside the remit of my Department. However, in the recently published Apprenticeship Action Plan there are a range of measures to support the continued growth of the apprenticeships system including piloting new Apprenticeship Navigators help support business employ their first apprentice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2034005%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455941"}},{"id":"455666","reference":"AQW 33885/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-20","answerBy":"2025-11-04","answered":"2025-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the work her Department has undertaken, to date, in the cross-departmental group considering short-term holiday lets, including any recommendations or proposed actions for her Department, to help protect housing availability in coastal towns, such as Portstewart.","answerText":"While the lead role on housing policy rests with the Department for Communities (DfC), my officials continue to engage on the cross-departmental working group comprising DfC, DfI and DfE. The group is currently working to finalise Terms of Reference to enable DfC to commission research. The purpose of the research is to provide a more informed understanding of the relative impact, if any, of short-term/holiday lets in the North on housing supply. It is the current intention that a final research report will be available later next year.","answerHtml":"While the lead role on housing policy rests with the Department for Communities (DfC), my officials continue to engage on the cross-departmental working group comprising DfC, DfI and DfE. The group is currently working to finalise Terms of Reference to enable DfC to commission research. The purpose of the research is to provide a more informed understanding of the relative impact, if any, of short-term/holiday lets in the North on housing supply. It is the current intention that a final research report will be available later next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033885%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455666","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455666"}},{"id":"455665","reference":"AQW 33884/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-20","answerBy":"2025-11-04","answered":"2025-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the Primary one intake numbers ,for each of the last five academic years for schools in (a) Portstewart; and (b) Portrush.","answerText":"Please see table below for year one enrolment figures for primary schools located in the Portstewart and Portrush areas 2020/21 – 2024/25.\n\nSchool Name\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\t2024/25\nCarnalridge Primary School, Portrush\t11\t25\t14\t17\t14\nMill Strand Integrated Primary School, Portrush\t53\t56\t55\t48\t36\nPortrush Primary School\t16\t24\t28\t21\t15\nPortstewart Primary School\t28\t30\t34\t25\t36\nSt Colum's Primary School, Portstewart\t25\t21\t26\t19\t26\nSt Patrick's Primary School, Portrush\t3\t2\t9\t16\t11\n\nSource: NI school census","answerHtml":"Please see table below for year one enrolment figures for primary schools located in the Portstewart and Portrush areas 2020/21 – 2024/25.
| School Name | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | 2024/25 |
| Carnalridge Primary School, Portrush | 11 | 25 | 14 | 17 | 14 |
| Mill Strand Integrated Primary School, Portrush | 53 | 56 | 55 | 48 | 36 |
| Portrush Primary School | 16 | 24 | 28 | 21 | 15 |
| Portstewart Primary School | 28 | 30 | 34 | 25 | 36 |
| St Colum's Primary School, Portstewart | 25 | 21 | 26 | 19 | 26 |
| St Patrick's Primary School, Portrush | 3 | 2 | 9 | 16 | 11 |
Source: NI school census
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033884%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455665","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455665"}},{"id":"455664","reference":"AQW 33883/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-20","answerBy":"2025-11-04","answered":"2025-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any actions his Department will take to support the long-term sustainability of coastal communities experiencing housing pressures from second home ownership, and short-term holiday lets.","answerText":"My Department is currently carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues. In addition to this, officials from my Department are working with colleagues in DfE and DfI to scope and commission research on the nature, scale and potential impacts of short-term holiday lets on local housing markets.\n\nAction to address locally specific issues and ensure long term sustainability of local communities is primarily taken forward through the Local Development Plan process. Local Councils are responsible for bringing forward appropriate policies for their own areas in their Local Development Plans to support the creation of balanced communities and ensure the spatial growth requirements of the local area can be met.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues. In addition to this, officials from my Department are working with colleagues in DfE and DfI to scope and commission research on the nature, scale and potential impacts of short-term holiday lets on local housing markets.
Action to address locally specific issues and ensure long term sustainability of local communities is primarily taken forward through the Local Development Plan process. Local Councils are responsible for bringing forward appropriate policies for their own areas in their Local Development Plans to support the creation of balanced communities and ensure the spatial growth requirements of the local area can be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033883%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455664","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455664"}},{"id":"455663","reference":"AQW 33882/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-20","answerBy":"2025-11-04","answered":"2025-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any data his Department currently collects on second home ownership and short-term holiday lets; and (ii) whether his Department intends to improve the quality, and availability, of this data to better inform housing policy.","answerText":"Officials from my Department are currently carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues.\n\nRegarding short-term holiday lets, my officials have been working closely with colleagues in the Department for the Economy and the Department for Infrastructure to scope out research on the nature, scale and potential impacts of short-term holiday lets on local housing markets, which in turn will help to identify further policy options. It is hoped to commission this research shortly.","answerHtml":"Officials from my Department are currently carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues.
Regarding short-term holiday lets, my officials have been working closely with colleagues in the Department for the Economy and the Department for Infrastructure to scope out research on the nature, scale and potential impacts of short-term holiday lets on local housing markets, which in turn will help to identify further policy options. It is hoped to commission this research shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033882%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455663","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455663"}},{"id":"455662","reference":"AQW 33881/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-20","answerBy":"2025-11-04","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department has assessed the economic and social impact of short-term holiday lets on year-round communities, particularly in coastal areas.","answerText":"The self-catering accommodation sector has seen a significant evolution in recent years, including short-term, self-catering holiday lets.\n\nShort-term holiday lets have contributed to the growth in tourism across the North, attracting visitors who may not have otherwise considered certain destinations. They provide flexibility for visitors and income for property owners.\n\nNISRA statistics from 2024 indicated that 10% of overnight trips taken by external visitors used ‘Rented Accommodation’.\n\nThe positive economic impact filters through local communities, with accommodation owners utilising local services and supply chains, and guests spending in local businesses which boosts local economies.\n\nI recognise that the significant increase in the number of self-catering properties, and broader challenges impacting on housing supply, has led to an increased interest in how short-term lets for visitors interact with local housing markets and communities.\n\nI am committed to supporting the Executive's Housing Supply Strategy. My officials are working with officials in the Departments for Communities and Infrastructure as DfC prepares to commission research on how short-term lets may affect local housing markets. The completion of this research will help inform the development of any potential policy interventions by Executive Departments in this area.","answerHtml":"The self-catering accommodation sector has seen a significant evolution in recent years, including short-term, self-catering holiday lets.
Short-term holiday lets have contributed to the growth in tourism across the North, attracting visitors who may not have otherwise considered certain destinations. They provide flexibility for visitors and income for property owners.
NISRA statistics from 2024 indicated that 10% of overnight trips taken by external visitors used ‘Rented Accommodation’.
The positive economic impact filters through local communities, with accommodation owners utilising local services and supply chains, and guests spending in local businesses which boosts local economies.
I recognise that the significant increase in the number of self-catering properties, and broader challenges impacting on housing supply, has led to an increased interest in how short-term lets for visitors interact with local housing markets and communities.
I am committed to supporting the Executive's Housing Supply Strategy. My officials are working with officials in the Departments for Communities and Infrastructure as DfC prepares to commission research on how short-term lets may affect local housing markets. The completion of this research will help inform the development of any potential policy interventions by Executive Departments in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033881%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455662"}},{"id":"455424","reference":"AQW 33802/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-17","answerBy":"2025-11-03","answered":"2025-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any action being taken to confirm (i) that water in the Ballykelly River is safe for public use; and (ii) that local wildlife is protected, following the recent chemical pollution incident.","answerText":"(i) My department currently has no concerns with drinking water quality of either public supplies through Northern Ireland Water Ltd or private supplies, following this recent incident.\n\n(ii) The Ballykelly River is not in itself a protected area; however, does flow into the Lough Foyle Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI)/Special Protection Area. Following the pollution incident, my officials, at low tide, visited the Lough Foyle ASSI mudflats, where the Ballykelly River discharges into the sea. No concerns for wildlife, birds or ASSI protected features were noted.","answerHtml":"(i) My department currently has no concerns with drinking water quality of either public supplies through Northern Ireland Water Ltd or private supplies, following this recent incident.
(ii) The Ballykelly River is not in itself a protected area; however, does flow into the Lough Foyle Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI)/Special Protection Area. Following the pollution incident, my officials, at low tide, visited the Lough Foyle ASSI mudflats, where the Ballykelly River discharges into the sea. No concerns for wildlife, birds or ASSI protected features were noted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033802%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455424"}},{"id":"455423","reference":"AQW 33801/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-17","answerBy":"2025-11-03","answered":"2025-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any steps her Department is taking to review and strengthen the management of storm drainage infrastructure located near rivers, to reduce the risk of harmful discharges.","answerText":"My Department is currently bringing forward the Water, Sustainable Drainage and Flood Management Bill which includes additional powers for NI Water in relation to drainage miscommunications and private drainage infrastructure which will help improve protection of the environment from pollution.\n\nI have also secured £15 million from the Public Sector Transformation Fund to develop and deliver a pilot project that will use nature-based solutions to help transform our urban drainage systems. The aim is to provide a range of nature-based drainage and flood management solutions to demonstrate their effectiveness in managing the flow of water through urban areas, helping to reduce flood risk and reduce pollution.\n\nNI Water also works closely with the NIEA in the investigation and rectification of the misuse of surface water drains which leads to pollution of surface water outfalls (PSWO).","answerHtml":"My Department is currently bringing forward the Water, Sustainable Drainage and Flood Management Bill which includes additional powers for NI Water in relation to drainage miscommunications and private drainage infrastructure which will help improve protection of the environment from pollution.
I have also secured £15 million from the Public Sector Transformation Fund to develop and deliver a pilot project that will use nature-based solutions to help transform our urban drainage systems. The aim is to provide a range of nature-based drainage and flood management solutions to demonstrate their effectiveness in managing the flow of water through urban areas, helping to reduce flood risk and reduce pollution.
NI Water also works closely with the NIEA in the investigation and rectification of the misuse of surface water drains which leads to pollution of surface water outfalls (PSWO).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033801%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455423"}},{"id":"455422","reference":"AQW 33800/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-17","answerBy":"2025-11-03","answered":"2025-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether any storm drains or discharge pipes, managed by her Department or its agencies, have been assessed as part of the investigation into the recent chemical pollution incident in the Ballykelly River.","answerText":"I have been advised by Minister Muir that DAERA was aware of the recent water pollution incident in the Ballykelly River, with the Loughs Agency leading on the investigations. DAERA staff have supported the Loughs Agency on checks of the local stormwater system, testing of foul sewers, and door-to-door checks, which have found no evidence of pollution.\n\nInvestigations indicate the incident being caused by a short duration discharge of a domestic chemical agent that quickly passed through the system.\n\nNI Water was aware of the investigations conducted by NIEA and the Loughs Agency. Further investigations were carried out by NI Water in the surrounding area, with the storm sewers working as designed and no evidence of any chemical agents or other inappropriate material.","answerHtml":"I have been advised by Minister Muir that DAERA was aware of the recent water pollution incident in the Ballykelly River, with the Loughs Agency leading on the investigations. DAERA staff have supported the Loughs Agency on checks of the local stormwater system, testing of foul sewers, and door-to-door checks, which have found no evidence of pollution.
Investigations indicate the incident being caused by a short duration discharge of a domestic chemical agent that quickly passed through the system.
NI Water was aware of the investigations conducted by NIEA and the Loughs Agency. Further investigations were carried out by NI Water in the surrounding area, with the storm sewers working as designed and no evidence of any chemical agents or other inappropriate material.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033800%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455422","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455422"}},{"id":"455421","reference":"AQW 33799/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-17","answerBy":"2025-11-03","answered":"2025-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any investigations under way to determine how a cleaning substance entered the Ballykelly River.","answerText":"The Loughs Agency led the investigation, supported by my staff. Checks of the local stormwater system, testing of foul sewers, and door-to-door checks found no evidence of pollution. The incident appears to have been caused by a short duration discharge of a domestic chemical agent that quickly passed through the system.","answerHtml":"The Loughs Agency led the investigation, supported by my staff. Checks of the local stormwater system, testing of foul sewers, and door-to-door checks found no evidence of pollution. The incident appears to have been caused by a short duration discharge of a domestic chemical agent that quickly passed through the system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033799%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455421","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455421"}},{"id":"455420","reference":"AQW 33798/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-17","answerBy":"2025-11-03","answered":"2025-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether additional water quality testing will be carried out in the Ballykelly River following the recent chemical pollution incident.","answerText":"My department has no plans for additional water quality testing. The Loughs Agency led the investigation, supported by my staff. Investigations pointed towards the incident being caused by a short duration discharge of a domestic chemical agent that quickly passed through the system.","answerHtml":"My department has no plans for additional water quality testing. The Loughs Agency led the investigation, supported by my staff. Investigations pointed towards the incident being caused by a short duration discharge of a domestic chemical agent that quickly passed through the system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033798%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455420","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455420"}},{"id":"455231","reference":"AQW 33692/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-16","answerBy":"2025-10-31","answered":"2025-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what steps he is taking to ensure GPs and primary care staff receive mandatory, up-to-date training in menopause diagnosis and treatment, including safe prescribing of HRT.","answerText":"As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards.\n\nAll doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including menopause.\n\nGPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in Revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.\n\nMy Department have endorsed the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the identification and management of menopause, updated in November 2024.\n\nI have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.\n\nGPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.\n\nPractice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of PBL is to encourage dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GPs and their Practice Staff.\n\nProvision of PBL was previously developed by the then Health & Social Care Board (HSCB) for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 the Strategic Planning & Performance Group (SPPG) commissions the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards.
All doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including menopause.
GPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in Revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.
My Department have endorsed the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the identification and management of menopause, updated in November 2024.
I have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.
GPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.
Practice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of PBL is to encourage dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GPs and their Practice Staff.
Provision of PBL was previously developed by the then Health & Social Care Board (HSCB) for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 the Strategic Planning & Performance Group (SPPG) commissions the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033692%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455231"}},{"id":"455230","reference":"AQW 33691/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-16","answerBy":"2025-10-31","answered":"2025-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will recognise the menopause as a public health issue and allocate specific resources to improve education, awareness and early intervention.","answerText":"I recognise the impact that menopause can have on a woman and, for some, it is more than just a biological milestone and can impact on every aspect of their lives.\n\nWork is already ongoing to improve gynaecology services across the region, including menopause care. A Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum, with Trust and Public Health Agency representation, has been established to oversee ongoing service improvement and implementation at a local and regional level. Although work is at an early stage of development and will require additional funding, this will include mapping clinical pathways from presentation at GP services into secondary and tertiary care, which will benefit both patients and clinicians. This work includes a specific task and finish group to consider menopause care.","answerHtml":"I recognise the impact that menopause can have on a woman and, for some, it is more than just a biological milestone and can impact on every aspect of their lives.
Work is already ongoing to improve gynaecology services across the region, including menopause care. A Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum, with Trust and Public Health Agency representation, has been established to oversee ongoing service improvement and implementation at a local and regional level. Although work is at an early stage of development and will require additional funding, this will include mapping clinical pathways from presentation at GP services into secondary and tertiary care, which will benefit both patients and clinicians. This work includes a specific task and finish group to consider menopause care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033691%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455230","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455230"}},{"id":"455229","reference":"AQW 33690/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-16","answerBy":"2025-10-31","answered":"2025-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how the forthcoming Women’s Health Action Plan will address the development of regional menopause services.","answerText":"I recognise that menopause can be a time of profound transition for women and for some it is more than just a biological milestone and can impact on every aspect of a woman’s life, from physical health to emotional wellbeing and workplace performance. I welcome that as a society we are beginning to open up these important conversations. Through the Department's stakeholder engagement for the Woman's Health Action Plan, menopause has, as expected, emerged as a priority area for women.\n\nWhilst the Action Plan is still in development, work is ongoing to improve menopause services. A Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum, with Trust and PHA representation, has been established to oversee ongoing service improvement and implementation at a local and regional level. Although work is at an early stage of development and will require additional funding, this will include mapping clinical pathways from presentation at GP services into secondary and tertiary care, which will benefit both patients and clinicians. This work includes a specific task and finish group to consider menopause care.","answerHtml":"I recognise that menopause can be a time of profound transition for women and for some it is more than just a biological milestone and can impact on every aspect of a woman’s life, from physical health to emotional wellbeing and workplace performance. I welcome that as a society we are beginning to open up these important conversations. Through the Department's stakeholder engagement for the Woman's Health Action Plan, menopause has, as expected, emerged as a priority area for women.
Whilst the Action Plan is still in development, work is ongoing to improve menopause services. A Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum, with Trust and PHA representation, has been established to oversee ongoing service improvement and implementation at a local and regional level. Although work is at an early stage of development and will require additional funding, this will include mapping clinical pathways from presentation at GP services into secondary and tertiary care, which will benefit both patients and clinicians. This work includes a specific task and finish group to consider menopause care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033690%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455229","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455229"}},{"id":"455228","reference":"AQW 33689/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-16","answerBy":"2025-10-31","answered":"2025-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 31823/22-27, to detail what measures are in place to ensure consistent and equitable access to BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing.","answerText":"I can confirm that my Department is committed to ensuring consistent and equitable access to BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing across Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Regional Genetics Service receives referrals from both primary and secondary care providers from across the region, operating outreach clinics and virtual clinics to provide equitable access across Northern Ireland. Patients and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer are assessed using UK-wide clinical guidelines. Eligibility for BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing is determined in accordance with the National Genomics Test Directory, which provides clear and consistent criteria for genomic testing. The National Genomics Test Directory, developed by the Test Evaluation Working Group, includes representation from all UK devolved nations, including Northern Ireland, to ensure that regional needs are considered in the development of national testing policies.\n\nIn addition, the Regional Genetics Service has established Molecular Tumour Boards and has dedicated clinic capacity to assess genetic variants identified through tumour sequencing that may also be present in the germline. The service is planning a systematic rollout of this approach, starting with ovarian cancers and eventually breast cancers, with the aim of improving the detection of familial cancer cases.\n\nThese measures collectively aim to ensure that individuals in Northern Ireland have equitable access to BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing, particularly those with a relevant family history or clinical indication.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that my Department is committed to ensuring consistent and equitable access to BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing across Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Regional Genetics Service receives referrals from both primary and secondary care providers from across the region, operating outreach clinics and virtual clinics to provide equitable access across Northern Ireland. Patients and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer are assessed using UK-wide clinical guidelines. Eligibility for BRCA1 and BRCA2 testing is determined in accordance with the National Genomics Test Directory, which provides clear and consistent criteria for genomic testing. The National Genomics Test Directory, developed by the Test Evaluation Working Group, includes representation from all UK devolved nations, including Northern Ireland, to ensure that regional needs are considered in the development of national testing policies.
In addition, the Regional Genetics Service has established Molecular Tumour Boards and has dedicated clinic capacity to assess genetic variants identified through tumour sequencing that may also be present in the germline. The service is planning a systematic rollout of this approach, starting with ovarian cancers and eventually breast cancers, with the aim of improving the detection of familial cancer cases.
These measures collectively aim to ensure that individuals in Northern Ireland have equitable access to BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing, particularly those with a relevant family history or clinical indication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033689%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455228"}},{"id":"455227","reference":"AQW 33688/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-16","answerBy":"2025-10-31","answered":"2025-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 31824/22-27, to detail what specific measures his Department is taking to ensure that women are clearly informed that cervical screening does not detect ovarian, womb, or other gynaecological cancers, given the common misconception that smear tests check for all women’s cancers.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency’s (PHA) public facing information and resources for all screening programmes are kept under regular review and are updated as necessary.\n\nThe PHA has confirmed they will update the information provided on the NIDirect website to advise that cervical screening does not detect ovarian cancer. PHA will also be making similar changes to their patient leaflets for the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme at their next review.\n\nIn addition, the PHA will continue to increase public awareness of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer, through regular social media channels to promote cancer awareness messaging. This includes information on signs and symptoms, and healthy changes people can make to help reduce the risk of developing cancer in the future. In addition, the PHA website provides information about signs and symptoms of a range of cancers, including ovarian cancer, which explains what people can do if concerned, and signposts to recommended sources of support or further information.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency’s (PHA) public facing information and resources for all screening programmes are kept under regular review and are updated as necessary.
The PHA has confirmed they will update the information provided on the NIDirect website to advise that cervical screening does not detect ovarian cancer. PHA will also be making similar changes to their patient leaflets for the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme at their next review.
In addition, the PHA will continue to increase public awareness of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer, through regular social media channels to promote cancer awareness messaging. This includes information on signs and symptoms, and healthy changes people can make to help reduce the risk of developing cancer in the future. In addition, the PHA website provides information about signs and symptoms of a range of cancers, including ovarian cancer, which explains what people can do if concerned, and signposts to recommended sources of support or further information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033688%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=455227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=455227"}},{"id":"457050","reference":"AQO 2615/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-16","answerBy":"2025-11-03","answered":"2025-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the proposed Women’s Health Action Plan.","answerText":"Work on a Women’s Health Action Plan is continuing with a current focus on engagement with harder-to-reach groups of women. I recognise that many women have felt overlooked within our health and social care system for a long time, and that some services have not met their needs. Work is ongoing to address these issues, and the Action Plan aims to further raise the profile of women’s health and accelerate positive change.\n\nIt is important that women’s voices and experiences are reflected in the plan. To support its development, my Department has contributed £20k to the large-scale public listening exercise being undertaken by Derry Well Women and Queen’s University Belfast. Over 2,300 women responded to the Phase 1 health survey, and I am grateful to them. Phase 2 is currently underway in the form of focus groups with harder-to-reach women.\n\nThis work is expected to conclude early next year and will form a key part of the evidence base for the Women’s Health Action Plan.\n\nWhilst development of the Action Plan continues, I want to assure Members that work on many of its key initiatives and actions are continuing – we are not waiting for the publication of the plan to begin to address important challenges in the here and now.\n\nThis is, of course, very challenging in view of resource constraints across the Health and Social Care system, however I am pleased that GP elective gynaecology services have been re-established at 100% capacity from April this year, and a further £3.5m of elective care funding has been earmarked for capacity building for red flag and time critical gynaecology.\n\nI aim to publish the Action Plan early next year after the findings from the listening exercise are known.","answerHtml":"Work on a Women’s Health Action Plan is continuing with a current focus on engagement with harder-to-reach groups of women. I recognise that many women have felt overlooked within our health and social care system for a long time, and that some services have not met their needs. Work is ongoing to address these issues, and the Action Plan aims to further raise the profile of women’s health and accelerate positive change.
It is important that women’s voices and experiences are reflected in the plan. To support its development, my Department has contributed £20k to the large-scale public listening exercise being undertaken by Derry Well Women and Queen’s University Belfast. Over 2,300 women responded to the Phase 1 health survey, and I am grateful to them. Phase 2 is currently underway in the form of focus groups with harder-to-reach women.
This work is expected to conclude early next year and will form a key part of the evidence base for the Women’s Health Action Plan.
Whilst development of the Action Plan continues, I want to assure Members that work on many of its key initiatives and actions are continuing – we are not waiting for the publication of the plan to begin to address important challenges in the here and now.
This is, of course, very challenging in view of resource constraints across the Health and Social Care system, however I am pleased that GP elective gynaecology services have been re-established at 100% capacity from April this year, and a further £3.5m of elective care funding has been earmarked for capacity building for red flag and time critical gynaecology.
I aim to publish the Action Plan early next year after the findings from the listening exercise are known.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202615%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=457050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=457050"}},{"id":"454825","reference":"AQW 33499/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-14","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail when she will approve the submitted PSNI business case to settle outstanding holiday pay claims for officers.","answerText":"While I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I am committed to progressing this matter as quickly as possible. My officials are currently considering the PSNI Holiday Pay business case which must satisfy the requisite approvals process, including approval by the Department of Finance (DoF).\n\nHoliday Pay is an exceptional pressure that is wholly unaffordable within existing or future PSNI and DoJ baseline budget. Further discussions will be needed with the Executive and the Department of Finance (DoF) to consider options for funding this exceptional pressure.\n\nFurthermore, Holiday Pay is an issue that has an impact across all departments and, therefore, a solution at Block level will be required.","answerHtml":"While I cannot give a definitive timeframe at this stage, I am committed to progressing this matter as quickly as possible. My officials are currently considering the PSNI Holiday Pay business case which must satisfy the requisite approvals process, including approval by the Department of Finance (DoF).
Holiday Pay is an exceptional pressure that is wholly unaffordable within existing or future PSNI and DoJ baseline budget. Further discussions will be needed with the Executive and the Department of Finance (DoF) to consider options for funding this exceptional pressure.
Furthermore, Holiday Pay is an issue that has an impact across all departments and, therefore, a solution at Block level will be required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033499%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454825"}},{"id":"454824","reference":"AQW 33498/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-14","answerBy":"2025-10-29","answered":"2025-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration been given to aligning miscarriage and pregnancy loss care pathways with the recommendations of the UK Pregnancy Loss Review.","answerText":"The UK Pregnancy Loss Review, published in July 2023, made several key recommendations aimed at improving care and recognition for individuals experiencing pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.\n\nThese include:\n\nIntroduction of a Baby Loss Certificate to formally acknowledge early pregnancy loss.\n\nImplementation of the National Bereavement Care Pathway (NBCP) to ensure consistent, compassionate bereavement care.\n\nImproved access to psychological support, including counselling and specialist services.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, you will be aware that the Department of Finance has introduced primary legislation in the Assembly, which will enable the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for NI - The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill. ‘This initiative would enable a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, to be recognised.\n\nThe Department of Health Northern Ireland and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have actively engaged with bereavement charities, particularly SANDS UK, to enhance support services for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss.\n\nSANDS UK, with funding from the PHA, are currently developing the NBCP in Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to improve the quality and consistency of bereavement care for parents and families. The NBCP includes nine standards designed to ensure sensitive communication, opportunities for memory-making, and dignified support for grieving families.\n\nAs part of the project healthcare professionals will be equipped with training, resources, and materials to deliver compassionate and informed care. Engagement with families who have a lived experience will be integral to the development of the pathways for NI, ensuring that bereavement support services are both clinically sound and emotionally responsive.\n\nA range of compassionate and dedicated support options have been developed and are available in each Health and Social Care Trust, including, bereavement support midwife posts, counselling services, early pregnancy units and importantly information and signposting to bereavement support groups, which offer specialised resources and peer support so that grieving families can receive one to one care they need during this difficult time.\n\nIn addition, a regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service has been established in each Trust to provide assessment, care planning, and treatment for women experiencing severe perinatal mental health illness, including postpartum psychosis. Where appropriate, care is coordinated with maternity units and health visitors to ensure continuity and holistic support.\n\nThe Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. My Department has been overseeing a major programme of work on maternity and neonatal services, with an immediate focus on improving governance and safety. Collectively, this work will result in a consolidated regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.\n\nAs you are aware, my Department is faced with a very challenging financial position at this time, but where possible I will prioritise the development of this service to ensure the appropriate advice and support is available to individuals and their families.\n\nPlease also be assured that I remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.","answerHtml":"The UK Pregnancy Loss Review, published in July 2023, made several key recommendations aimed at improving care and recognition for individuals experiencing pregnancy loss before 24 weeks.
These include:
Introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate to formally acknowledge early pregnancy loss.
Implementation of the National Bereavement Care Pathway (NBCP) to ensure consistent, compassionate bereavement care.
Improved access to psychological support, including counselling and specialist services.
In Northern Ireland, you will be aware that the Department of Finance has introduced primary legislation in the Assembly, which will enable the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for NI - The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill. ‘This initiative would enable a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, to be recognised.
The Department of Health Northern Ireland and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have actively engaged with bereavement charities, particularly SANDS UK, to enhance support services for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss.
SANDS UK, with funding from the PHA, are currently developing the NBCP in Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to improve the quality and consistency of bereavement care for parents and families. The NBCP includes nine standards designed to ensure sensitive communication, opportunities for memory-making, and dignified support for grieving families.
As part of the project healthcare professionals will be equipped with training, resources, and materials to deliver compassionate and informed care. Engagement with families who have a lived experience will be integral to the development of the pathways for NI, ensuring that bereavement support services are both clinically sound and emotionally responsive.
A range of compassionate and dedicated support options have been developed and are available in each Health and Social Care Trust, including, bereavement support midwife posts, counselling services, early pregnancy units and importantly information and signposting to bereavement support groups, which offer specialised resources and peer support so that grieving families can receive one to one care they need during this difficult time.
In addition, a regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service has been established in each Trust to provide assessment, care planning, and treatment for women experiencing severe perinatal mental health illness, including postpartum psychosis. Where appropriate, care is coordinated with maternity units and health visitors to ensure continuity and holistic support.
The Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. My Department has been overseeing a major programme of work on maternity and neonatal services, with an immediate focus on improving governance and safety. Collectively, this work will result in a consolidated regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.
As you are aware, my Department is faced with a very challenging financial position at this time, but where possible I will prioritise the development of this service to ensure the appropriate advice and support is available to individuals and their families.
Please also be assured that I remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033498%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454824","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454824"}},{"id":"454823","reference":"AQW 33497/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-14","answerBy":"2025-10-29","answered":"2025-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) whether his Department has assessed regional variation in access to miscarriage and pregnancy loss services, and (ii) how it is working to ensure equitable provision across all Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"My Department are aware that there is variation across Trusts in relation to access to miscarriage and pregnancy loss services.\n\nThe Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. My Department has been overseeing a major programme of work on maternity and neonatal services, with an immediate focus on improving governance and safety. Collectively, this work will result in a consolidated regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.\n\nA range of compassionate and dedicated support options have been developed and are available in each Health and Social Care Trust, including, Bereavement support midwife posts, counselling services, early pregnancy units and importantly information and signposting to bereavement support groups, which offer specialised resources and peer support so that grieving families can receive one to one care they need during this difficult time.\n\nIn addition, a regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service has been established in each Trust to provide assessment, care planning, and treatment for women experiencing severe perinatal mental illness, including postpartum psychosis. Where appropriate, care is coordinated with maternity units and health visitors to ensure continuity and holistic support.\n\nYou may also be aware that the Department of Finance has introduced primary legislation in the Assembly, which will enable the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for NI - The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill. ‘This initiative would enable a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, to be recognised.\n\nThe Department of Health Northern Ireland and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have actively engaged with bereavement charities, particularly SANDS UK, to enhance support services for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss.\n\nSANDS UK, with funding from the PHA, are currently developing the National Bereavement Care Pathway (NBCP) in Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to improve the quality and consistency of bereavement care for parents and families. The NBCP includes nine standards designed to ensure sensitive communication, opportunities for memory-making, and dignified support for grieving families.\n\nAs part of the project healthcare professionals will be equipped with training, resources, and materials to deliver compassionate and informed care. Engagement with families who have a lived experience will be integral to the development of the pathways for NI, ensuring that bereavement support services are both clinically sound and emotionally responsive.\n\nMy Department do however acknowledge the gaps that exist for Specialist Psychological Support for Bereaved Parents and remain committed to improving services. As you are aware, my Department is faced with a very challenging financial position at this time, but where possible I will prioritise the development of this service to ensure the appropriate advice and support is available to individuals and their families.\n\nPlease also be assured that I remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.","answerHtml":"My Department are aware that there is variation across Trusts in relation to access to miscarriage and pregnancy loss services.
The Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. My Department has been overseeing a major programme of work on maternity and neonatal services, with an immediate focus on improving governance and safety. Collectively, this work will result in a consolidated regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.
A range of compassionate and dedicated support options have been developed and are available in each Health and Social Care Trust, including, Bereavement support midwife posts, counselling services, early pregnancy units and importantly information and signposting to bereavement support groups, which offer specialised resources and peer support so that grieving families can receive one to one care they need during this difficult time.
In addition, a regional Specialist Perinatal Mental Health Service has been established in each Trust to provide assessment, care planning, and treatment for women experiencing severe perinatal mental illness, including postpartum psychosis. Where appropriate, care is coordinated with maternity units and health visitors to ensure continuity and holistic support.
You may also be aware that the Department of Finance has introduced primary legislation in the Assembly, which will enable the introduction of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for NI - The Deaths, Still-Births and Baby Loss Bill. ‘This initiative would enable a pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, to be recognised.
The Department of Health Northern Ireland and the Public Health Agency (PHA) have actively engaged with bereavement charities, particularly SANDS UK, to enhance support services for those affected by pregnancy and baby loss.
SANDS UK, with funding from the PHA, are currently developing the National Bereavement Care Pathway (NBCP) in Northern Ireland. This initiative aims to improve the quality and consistency of bereavement care for parents and families. The NBCP includes nine standards designed to ensure sensitive communication, opportunities for memory-making, and dignified support for grieving families.
As part of the project healthcare professionals will be equipped with training, resources, and materials to deliver compassionate and informed care. Engagement with families who have a lived experience will be integral to the development of the pathways for NI, ensuring that bereavement support services are both clinically sound and emotionally responsive.
My Department do however acknowledge the gaps that exist for Specialist Psychological Support for Bereaved Parents and remain committed to improving services. As you are aware, my Department is faced with a very challenging financial position at this time, but where possible I will prioritise the development of this service to ensure the appropriate advice and support is available to individuals and their families.
Please also be assured that I remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033497%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454823","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454823"}},{"id":"454822","reference":"AQW 33496/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-14","answerBy":"2025-10-29","answered":"2025-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department will use data from the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme to inform maternal health policy and service planning.","answerText":"The Baby Loss Certificate Scheme is being developed by the Department of Finance (DoF). It is not yet known whether the scheme will be suitable for gathering comprehensive data on pregnancy loss.\n\nAs participation in the scheme is voluntary, it is unlikely to capture the full extent of pregnancy loss across Northern Ireland. However, my Department will continue to work closely with DoF to support the development of the scheme and to consider its potential role in improving data collection.","answerHtml":"The Baby Loss Certificate Scheme is being developed by the Department of Finance (DoF). It is not yet known whether the scheme will be suitable for gathering comprehensive data on pregnancy loss.
As participation in the scheme is voluntary, it is unlikely to capture the full extent of pregnancy loss across Northern Ireland. However, my Department will continue to work closely with DoF to support the development of the scheme and to consider its potential role in improving data collection.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033496%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454822"}},{"id":"454821","reference":"AQW 33495/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-14","answerBy":"2025-10-29","answered":"2025-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail whether the forthcoming Baby Loss Certificate Scheme will include provision for data collection, to support public health policy.","answerText":"As part of the development of the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme my officials in the General Register Office (GRO) are considering the possibility of other potential uses for the data collected as part of the application process. To better understand how those who have experienced baby loss would feel about the question of the retention and wider use of their data it was included in the recently completed public consultation exercise.\n\nMy officials are currently analysing the responses to the consultation, the findings of which I will publish as soon as possible. Once this is complete, I will reconsider the question of other possible data uses in more detail.","answerHtml":"As part of the development of the Baby Loss Certificate Scheme my officials in the General Register Office (GRO) are considering the possibility of other potential uses for the data collected as part of the application process. To better understand how those who have experienced baby loss would feel about the question of the retention and wider use of their data it was included in the recently completed public consultation exercise.
My officials are currently analysing the responses to the consultation, the findings of which I will publish as soon as possible. Once this is complete, I will reconsider the question of other possible data uses in more detail.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033495%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454821"}},{"id":"454579","reference":"AQW 33401/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-13","answerBy":"2025-10-28","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken (i) to reduce reliance on locum staff within the Emergency Department at Causeway Hospital; and (i) to recruit permanent medical and nursing staff.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033401%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454579"}},{"id":"454578","reference":"AQW 33400/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-13","answerBy":"2025-10-28","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans his Department has to invest in the Emergency Department at Causeway Hospital to support its long-term sustainability as a 24-hour service.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033400%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454578"}},{"id":"454577","reference":"AQW 33399/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-13","answerBy":"2025-10-28","answered":"2025-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) what diagnostic and elective services will be delivered as part of the development of Causeway Hospital as a diagnostic and elective hub; and (ii) how this model will improve access to care and reduce waiting times for patients in East Londonderry.","answerText":"As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards.\n\nAll doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including menopause.\n\nGPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in Revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.\n\nMy Department have endorsed the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the identification and management of menopause, updated in November 2024.\n\nI have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.\n\nGPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.\n\nPractice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of PBL is to encourage dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GPs and their Practice Staff.\n\nProvision of PBL was previously developed by the then Health & Social Care Board (HSCB) for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 the Strategic Planning & Performance Group (SPPG) commissions the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards.
All doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including menopause.
GPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in Revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.
My Department have endorsed the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the identification and management of menopause, updated in November 2024.
I have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.
GPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.
Practice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of PBL is to encourage dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GPs and their Practice Staff.
Provision of PBL was previously developed by the then Health & Social Care Board (HSCB) for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 the Strategic Planning & Performance Group (SPPG) commissions the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033399%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454577"}},{"id":"454576","reference":"AQW 33398/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-13","answerBy":"2025-10-28","answered":"2025-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what engagement his Department has had with the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and local representatives, including SOS Causeway, to provide clarity about the hospital’s long-term future.","answerText":"Departmental officials have regular and ongoing engagement with the Trust about a range of issues, including the Trust’s strategy for Causeway Hospital. The Trust restated its commitment to the long-term future of Causeway as an acute hospital site in its Strategic Vision for Causeway, and the Department’s Hospitals: Creating a Network for Better Outcomes indicates that consideration should be given to designating Causeway as an elective care centre.\n\nThe Trust has engaged with SOS Causeway representatives regarding the future of the hospital on a number of occasions, with a meeting planned in the short term to specifically discuss mental health services. The Trust has established a Causeway Hospital Partnership Forum with internal and external stakeholders, and SOS Causeway have a standing invitation to this Forum.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials have regular and ongoing engagement with the Trust about a range of issues, including the Trust’s strategy for Causeway Hospital. The Trust restated its commitment to the long-term future of Causeway as an acute hospital site in its Strategic Vision for Causeway, and the Department’s Hospitals: Creating a Network for Better Outcomes indicates that consideration should be given to designating Causeway as an elective care centre.
The Trust has engaged with SOS Causeway representatives regarding the future of the hospital on a number of occasions, with a meeting planned in the short term to specifically discuss mental health services. The Trust has established a Causeway Hospital Partnership Forum with internal and external stakeholders, and SOS Causeway have a standing invitation to this Forum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033398%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454576"}},{"id":"454575","reference":"AQW 33397/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-13","answerBy":"2025-10-28","answered":"2026-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail when he expects to make a final decision on the Northern Health and Social Care Trust’s proposal to remove emergency general surgery from Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"On 18 December, Tracey McCaig, Chief Operating Officer of SPPG, chaired an Emergency General Surgery Causeway Summit. The meeting brought together senior leaders from the Northern Trust, Western Trust, and NIAS at Chief Executive and Director level to consider the potential impact on these organisations should emergency surgery at Causeway Hospital close.\n\nThe purpose of the summit was to enable system-wide planning ahead of any Ministerial announcements. It was agreed that further work is required to review expected patient flows, which will inform the Minister’s decision. An independent analysis has been commissioned from Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) to support this modelling exercise, test the underlying assumptions and assess the potential impact.\n\nA further update is expected by March 2026.","answerHtml":"On 18 December, Tracey McCaig, Chief Operating Officer of SPPG, chaired an Emergency General Surgery Causeway Summit. The meeting brought together senior leaders from the Northern Trust, Western Trust, and NIAS at Chief Executive and Director level to consider the potential impact on these organisations should emergency surgery at Causeway Hospital close.
The purpose of the summit was to enable system-wide planning ahead of any Ministerial announcements. It was agreed that further work is required to review expected patient flows, which will inform the Minister’s decision. An independent analysis has been commissioned from Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) to support this modelling exercise, test the underlying assumptions and assess the potential impact.
A further update is expected by March 2026.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033397%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454575"}},{"id":"454299","reference":"AQW 33288/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-10","answerBy":"2025-10-27","answered":"2025-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what specific measures are being put in place to ensure that rural constituencies, including East Londonderry, are not disproportionately affected by delays in implementing the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, as highlighted in The Northern Ireland Mental Health Strategy: A Review of the deliverability of the Strategy’s Actions 2026-2029.","answerText":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 is underpinned by a commitment to ensuring equitable access and consistent delivery across all areas in Northern Ireland.\n\nWhile funding constraints have necessitated the completion of the Northern Ireland Mental Health Strategy: Review of the deliverability of the Strategy’s Actions 2026-2029, the process has sharpened our focus and ambition. The review recommends a phased approach to delivery, ensuring that efforts remain targeted and achievable within available resources.\n\nThe Review of Deliverability highlights the principle of Eradicating Inequity within Mental Health Services as a central focus. It reinforces that any actions prioritised for additional funding must be progressed in line with the Strategy’s original commitment to equality of access and consistent provision, ensuring that improvements benefit all communities fairly.\n\nThe approach to implementation therefore remains centred on regional consistency and equitable access across Northern Ireland, with a clear commitment to ensuring that no area - including rural constituencies such as East Londonderry - is disproportionately impacted or disadvantaged.\n\nThis is a central tenet of the work underpinning the ongoing development of a regionally consistent mental health service (Action 31), alongside the implementation of a Regional Mental Health Outcomes Framework (Action 34). Both were identified and progressed as priority enabling actions at the time of the Strategy’s publication.\n\nThe former seeks to establish systems that ensure equitable access to high-quality, consistent mental health services across all areas of Northern Ireland, through collaborative efforts that shape services to meet local needs while maintaining regional standards. The latter supports evidence-based decision-making and enables monitoring of service effectiveness and consistency across the region.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 is underpinned by a commitment to ensuring equitable access and consistent delivery across all areas in Northern Ireland.
While funding constraints have necessitated the completion of the Northern Ireland Mental Health Strategy: Review of the deliverability of the Strategy’s Actions 2026-2029, the process has sharpened our focus and ambition. The review recommends a phased approach to delivery, ensuring that efforts remain targeted and achievable within available resources.
The Review of Deliverability highlights the principle of Eradicating Inequity within Mental Health Services as a central focus. It reinforces that any actions prioritised for additional funding must be progressed in line with the Strategy’s original commitment to equality of access and consistent provision, ensuring that improvements benefit all communities fairly.
The approach to implementation therefore remains centred on regional consistency and equitable access across Northern Ireland, with a clear commitment to ensuring that no area - including rural constituencies such as East Londonderry - is disproportionately impacted or disadvantaged.
This is a central tenet of the work underpinning the ongoing development of a regionally consistent mental health service (Action 31), alongside the implementation of a Regional Mental Health Outcomes Framework (Action 34). Both were identified and progressed as priority enabling actions at the time of the Strategy’s publication.
The former seeks to establish systems that ensure equitable access to high-quality, consistent mental health services across all areas of Northern Ireland, through collaborative efforts that shape services to meet local needs while maintaining regional standards. The latter supports evidence-based decision-making and enables monitoring of service effectiveness and consistency across the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033288%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454299","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454299"}},{"id":"454298","reference":"AQW 33287/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-10","answerBy":"2025-10-27","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline how the findings in The Northern Ireland Mental Health Strategy: A Review of the deliverability of the Strategy’s Actions 2026-2029 on disparities across Health and Social Care Trusts will inform his Department’s future decisions about inpatient mental health provision at the Ross Thompson Unit in Coleraine.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033287%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454298"}},{"id":"454297","reference":"AQW 33286/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-10","answerBy":"2025-10-27","answered":"2025-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline how his Department is addressing the higher prevalence of mental health conditions in Northern Ireland compared to the rest of the UK, particularly among older people and those affected by the legacy of conflict.","answerText":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 identifies the region’s higher prevalence of mental health conditions as being driven by a combination of factors including the legacy of the Troubles, social inequality, and adverse childhood experiences. The Strategy was developed to address these challenges through a whole-system, whole-life approach.\n\nHowever, in light of the funding constraints faced, it has been necessary for my Department to undertake a review of the deliverability of the Mental Health Strategy’s actions from 2026 - 2029 to focus and prioritise our ambition, whilst recognising that the Strategy in its entirety is still needed.\n\nThe Review report, published on 9 October 2025, recognises that the mental health system must focus on fewer priorities and proposes a phased approach for the Strategy's deliverability dependant on the availability of additional resources. While the immediate focus for 2026/27 will be on workforce development and crisis services, the review acknowledges the importance of addressing older people's mental health and proposes it for action in 2027/28. This reflects a recognition of the growing need in this demographic.\n\nAny additional resources we secure for mental health will be directed into priority areas identified through the review. In the absence of additional funding, we will focus on making the most of the resources we already have.\n\nMental health outcomes are shaped by broader social factors like poverty, housing, education, and employment. My Department is committed to enhancing cross-Government collaboration, working closely with the Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience, and Suicide Prevention to strengthen partnerships and deepen cooperation.\n\nThe Regional Trauma Network, overseen jointly by my Department and The Executive Office, was established to support the mental health and wellbeing of individuals affected by the Troubles. It adopts an innovative approach working collaboratively with statutory, community and voluntary sector organisations to provide specialist trauma care to individuals. Phase 1, focused on victims and survivors of the Troubles, formally began on 1 April 2023 and will run for at least three years. It will be evaluated from April 2026 to identify any unmet or ongoing needs, with lessons learned informing the design and rollout of Phase 2.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 identifies the region’s higher prevalence of mental health conditions as being driven by a combination of factors including the legacy of the Troubles, social inequality, and adverse childhood experiences. The Strategy was developed to address these challenges through a whole-system, whole-life approach.
However, in light of the funding constraints faced, it has been necessary for my Department to undertake a review of the deliverability of the Mental Health Strategy’s actions from 2026 - 2029 to focus and prioritise our ambition, whilst recognising that the Strategy in its entirety is still needed.
The Review report, published on 9 October 2025, recognises that the mental health system must focus on fewer priorities and proposes a phased approach for the Strategy's deliverability dependant on the availability of additional resources. While the immediate focus for 2026/27 will be on workforce development and crisis services, the review acknowledges the importance of addressing older people's mental health and proposes it for action in 2027/28. This reflects a recognition of the growing need in this demographic.
Any additional resources we secure for mental health will be directed into priority areas identified through the review. In the absence of additional funding, we will focus on making the most of the resources we already have.
Mental health outcomes are shaped by broader social factors like poverty, housing, education, and employment. My Department is committed to enhancing cross-Government collaboration, working closely with the Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience, and Suicide Prevention to strengthen partnerships and deepen cooperation.
The Regional Trauma Network, overseen jointly by my Department and The Executive Office, was established to support the mental health and wellbeing of individuals affected by the Troubles. It adopts an innovative approach working collaboratively with statutory, community and voluntary sector organisations to provide specialist trauma care to individuals. Phase 1, focused on victims and survivors of the Troubles, formally began on 1 April 2023 and will run for at least three years. It will be evaluated from April 2026 to identify any unmet or ongoing needs, with lessons learned informing the design and rollout of Phase 2.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033286%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454297","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454297"}},{"id":"454296","reference":"AQW 33285/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-10","answerBy":"2025-10-27","answered":"2025-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what plans his Department has to improve access to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services in East Londonderry, in light of the pressures on capacity identified in The Northern Ireland Mental Health Strategy: A Review of the deliverability of the Strategy’s Actions 2026-2029.","answerText":"The WHSCT CAMHS continues to be challenged, like other CAMHS regionally, in meeting IEAP access targets with respect to 9-week routine Choice (new patient) appointments. The reasons for this are multi-faceted. It is no coincidence that the unique social economic, political landscape of NI coupled with high levels of social deprivation in the Western Trust area accounts for increasing trends in referral rates to the Service.\n\nCAMHS has witnessed increasing clinical acuity levels and risk laden co-morbid presentations following the Covid pandemic and to date referral rates have continued to increase both in numbers and complexity of presentations and co-morbid mental health difficulties.\n\nThe Referral Co-ordinating team has established links with all areas in our community and voluntary sector. The Co-ordinator’s role involves liaising within local community voluntary groups and signposting young people and their families to the most appropriate service that will meet their needs and offer support.\n\nWithin the service the Referral Co-ordinators liaise with our Step 2 services in CAMHS. The service also links with local Hubs in the community in continually providing up to date information in respect of other community and voluntary sector services that can provide psychological support to young people and their families.\n\nTo improve access targets CAMHS continues to work in close partnership with Senior Trust Managers and Trust Quality Improvement and Performance colleagues with regular monitoring meetings taking place with SPPG/DOH regarding waiting times associated with access to service and ensuring positive outcomes for young people in receipt of the service.\n\nCAMHS received recurrent additional funding of £466,000 in 2020-21 and 2022-23. This additional funding supported recruitment to strengthen Step 2 and Step 3 core CAMHS. The provision at this level provides specialist assessment and targeted therapeutic intervention to children and young people experiencing moderate to severe mental health conditions.\n\nRecurrent funding of £169,000 through the Delivering Care Framework supporting the provision of high-quality care which is safe and effective for the Nursing and Midwifery workforce saw the appointment of a CAMHS Consultant Nurse and a CAMHS Lead Nurse in 2022-23. These posts have been filled and this has enhanced nursing structures within the service.\n\nThe CAMHS/Youth life Partnership has also been established, delivering therapeutic support at Step 2 level through counselling. This model has been successfully rolled out in the Omagh/Enniskillen sectors of the Trust for 5 – 18year olds. The Partnership is currently ongoing with recurrent funding which includes monthly audit meetings with Youth life.\n\nA recurrent funding allocation in 2022/2023 of £285,000 also saw the establishment of the CAMHS Emotional Health & Wellbeing Team in School project, 9EWTS). This investment has supported an innovative CAMHS-led Regional response at a universal Step 1 level designed to promote greater capacity for preventative initiatives in the school setting. The EWTS initiative seeks to support allied stakeholders working in educational settings to help promote emotional wellbeing, positive mental health and strengthen self-esteem and resilience in our children in NI. Post primary schools in East Derry/L’Derry, alongside all post primary schools in NI, were invited to avail of this support.\n\nWHSCT CAMHS and the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) have also been working in partnership, from April 2022, to assess and offer intervention in respect to the mental health needs of children and adolescents (under 18) who are potentially at risk of becoming involved with YJA and CAMHS. As part of the initial pilot a dedicated Step 3 CAMHS Senior Mental Health role has been established.\n\nOn World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2025, the CAMHS website was also launched. The website is designed to be user friendly and provides immediate access to a comprehensive range of useful resources and up to date information for young people and their families. These resources have been developed with the aim of reaching a large section of the community and are intended to function as part of a wider strategy of promoting good mental health and wellbeing. The website has also been designed as a source of information to reach out to communities and deliver immediate information aimed at reducing stigma and barriers to young people and their families who find it difficult to seek help.\n\nThere are continuing efforts to develop resources for young people and parents who are waiting for an ADHD assessment. The intention is to offer support and information for children and young people waiting for assessment through a range of on-line resources designed to engage young people to explore and provide emotional health and wellbeing support and guidance for families and young people. The programmes covered within the online resource are specific to ADHD with an aim to be informative and also to reduce barriers to accessing information to improve emotional and mental health.\n\nThe WHSCT CAMHS continues to be challenged, like other CAMHS regionally, in meeting IEAP access targets with respect to 9-week routine Choice (new patient) appointments. The reasons for this are multi-faceted. It is no coincidence that the unique social economic, political landscape of NI coupled with high levels of social deprivation in the Western Trust area accounts for increasing trends in referral rates to the Service.\n\nCAMHS has witnessed increasing clinical acuity levels and risk laden co-morbid presentations following the Covid pandemic and to date referral rates have continued to increase both in numbers and complexity of presentations and co-morbid mental health difficulties.\n\nThe Referral Co-ordinating team has established links with all areas in our community and voluntary sector. The Co-ordinator’s role involves liaising within local community voluntary groups and signposting young people and their families to the most appropriate service that will meet their needs and offer support.\n\nWithin the service the Referral Co-ordinators liaise with our Step 2 services in CAMHS. The service also links with local Hubs in the community in continually providing up to date information in respect of other community and voluntary sector services that can provide psychological support to young people and their families.\n\nTo improve access targets CAMHS continues to work in close partnership with Senior Trust Managers and Trust Quality Improvement and Performance colleagues with regular monitoring meetings taking place with SPPG/DOH regarding waiting times associated with access to service and ensuring positive outcomes for young people in receipt of the service.\n\nCAMHS received recurrent additional funding of £466,000 in 2020-21 and 2022-23. This additional funding supported recruitment to strengthen Step 2 and Step 3 core CAMHS. The provision at this level provides specialist assessment and targeted therapeutic intervention to children and young people experiencing moderate to severe mental health conditions.\n\nRecurrent funding of £169,000 through the Delivering Care Framework supporting the provision of high-quality care which is safe and effective for the Nursing and Midwifery workforce saw the appointment of a CAMHS Consultant Nurse and a CAMHS Lead Nurse in 2022-23. These posts have been filled and this has enhanced nursing structures within the service.\n\nThe CAMHS/Youth life Partnership has also been established, delivering therapeutic support at Step 2 level through counselling. This model has been successfully rolled out in the Omagh/Enniskillen sectors of the Trust for 5 – 18year olds. The Partnership is currently ongoing with recurrent funding which includes monthly audit meetings with Youth life.\n\nA recurrent funding allocation in 2022/2023 of £285,000 also saw the establishment of the CAMHS Emotional Health & Wellbeing Team in School project, 9EWTS). This investment has supported an innovative CAMHS-led Regional response at a universal Step 1 level designed to promote greater capacity for preventative initiatives in the school setting. The EWTS initiative seeks to support allied stakeholders working in educational settings to help promote emotional wellbeing, positive mental health and strengthen self-esteem and resilience in our children in NI. Post primary schools in East Derry/L’Derry, alongside all post primary schools in NI, were invited to avail of this support.\n\nWHSCT CAMHS and the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) have also been working in partnership, from April 2022, to assess and offer intervention in respect to the mental health needs of children and adolescents (under 18) who are potentially at risk of becoming involved with YJA and CAMHS. As part of the initial pilot a dedicated Step 3 CAMHS Senior Mental Health role has been established.\n\nOn World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2025, the CAMHS website was also launched. The website is designed to be user friendly and provides immediate access to a comprehensive range of useful resources and up to date information for young people and their families. These resources have been developed with the aim of reaching a large section of the community and are intended to function as part of a wider strategy of promoting good mental health and wellbeing. The website has also been designed as a source of information to reach out to communities and deliver immediate information aimed at reducing stigma and barriers to young people and their families who find it difficult to seek help.\n\nThere are continuing efforts to develop resources for young people and parents who are waiting for an ADHD assessment. The intention is to offer support and information for children and young people waiting for assessment through a range of on-line resources designed to engage young people to explore and provide emotional health and wellbeing support and guidance for families and young people. The programmes covered within the online resource are specific to ADHD with an aim to be informative and also to reduce barriers to accessing information to improve emotional and mental health.","answerHtml":"The WHSCT CAMHS continues to be challenged, like other CAMHS regionally, in meeting IEAP access targets with respect to 9-week routine Choice (new patient) appointments. The reasons for this are multi-faceted. It is no coincidence that the unique social economic, political landscape of NI coupled with high levels of social deprivation in the Western Trust area accounts for increasing trends in referral rates to the Service.
CAMHS has witnessed increasing clinical acuity levels and risk laden co-morbid presentations following the Covid pandemic and to date referral rates have continued to increase both in numbers and complexity of presentations and co-morbid mental health difficulties.
The Referral Co-ordinating team has established links with all areas in our community and voluntary sector. The Co-ordinator’s role involves liaising within local community voluntary groups and signposting young people and their families to the most appropriate service that will meet their needs and offer support.
Within the service the Referral Co-ordinators liaise with our Step 2 services in CAMHS. The service also links with local Hubs in the community in continually providing up to date information in respect of other community and voluntary sector services that can provide psychological support to young people and their families.
To improve access targets CAMHS continues to work in close partnership with Senior Trust Managers and Trust Quality Improvement and Performance colleagues with regular monitoring meetings taking place with SPPG/DOH regarding waiting times associated with access to service and ensuring positive outcomes for young people in receipt of the service.
CAMHS received recurrent additional funding of £466,000 in 2020-21 and 2022-23. This additional funding supported recruitment to strengthen Step 2 and Step 3 core CAMHS. The provision at this level provides specialist assessment and targeted therapeutic intervention to children and young people experiencing moderate to severe mental health conditions.
Recurrent funding of £169,000 through the Delivering Care Framework supporting the provision of high-quality care which is safe and effective for the Nursing and Midwifery workforce saw the appointment of a CAMHS Consultant Nurse and a CAMHS Lead Nurse in 2022-23. These posts have been filled and this has enhanced nursing structures within the service.
The CAMHS/Youth life Partnership has also been established, delivering therapeutic support at Step 2 level through counselling. This model has been successfully rolled out in the Omagh/Enniskillen sectors of the Trust for 5 – 18year olds. The Partnership is currently ongoing with recurrent funding which includes monthly audit meetings with Youth life.
A recurrent funding allocation in 2022/2023 of £285,000 also saw the establishment of the CAMHS Emotional Health & Wellbeing Team in School project, 9EWTS). This investment has supported an innovative CAMHS-led Regional response at a universal Step 1 level designed to promote greater capacity for preventative initiatives in the school setting. The EWTS initiative seeks to support allied stakeholders working in educational settings to help promote emotional wellbeing, positive mental health and strengthen self-esteem and resilience in our children in NI. Post primary schools in East Derry/L’Derry, alongside all post primary schools in NI, were invited to avail of this support.
WHSCT CAMHS and the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) have also been working in partnership, from April 2022, to assess and offer intervention in respect to the mental health needs of children and adolescents (under 18) who are potentially at risk of becoming involved with YJA and CAMHS. As part of the initial pilot a dedicated Step 3 CAMHS Senior Mental Health role has been established.
On World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2025, the CAMHS website was also launched. The website is designed to be user friendly and provides immediate access to a comprehensive range of useful resources and up to date information for young people and their families. These resources have been developed with the aim of reaching a large section of the community and are intended to function as part of a wider strategy of promoting good mental health and wellbeing. The website has also been designed as a source of information to reach out to communities and deliver immediate information aimed at reducing stigma and barriers to young people and their families who find it difficult to seek help.
There are continuing efforts to develop resources for young people and parents who are waiting for an ADHD assessment. The intention is to offer support and information for children and young people waiting for assessment through a range of on-line resources designed to engage young people to explore and provide emotional health and wellbeing support and guidance for families and young people. The programmes covered within the online resource are specific to ADHD with an aim to be informative and also to reduce barriers to accessing information to improve emotional and mental health.
The WHSCT CAMHS continues to be challenged, like other CAMHS regionally, in meeting IEAP access targets with respect to 9-week routine Choice (new patient) appointments. The reasons for this are multi-faceted. It is no coincidence that the unique social economic, political landscape of NI coupled with high levels of social deprivation in the Western Trust area accounts for increasing trends in referral rates to the Service.
CAMHS has witnessed increasing clinical acuity levels and risk laden co-morbid presentations following the Covid pandemic and to date referral rates have continued to increase both in numbers and complexity of presentations and co-morbid mental health difficulties.
The Referral Co-ordinating team has established links with all areas in our community and voluntary sector. The Co-ordinator’s role involves liaising within local community voluntary groups and signposting young people and their families to the most appropriate service that will meet their needs and offer support.
Within the service the Referral Co-ordinators liaise with our Step 2 services in CAMHS. The service also links with local Hubs in the community in continually providing up to date information in respect of other community and voluntary sector services that can provide psychological support to young people and their families.
To improve access targets CAMHS continues to work in close partnership with Senior Trust Managers and Trust Quality Improvement and Performance colleagues with regular monitoring meetings taking place with SPPG/DOH regarding waiting times associated with access to service and ensuring positive outcomes for young people in receipt of the service.
CAMHS received recurrent additional funding of £466,000 in 2020-21 and 2022-23. This additional funding supported recruitment to strengthen Step 2 and Step 3 core CAMHS. The provision at this level provides specialist assessment and targeted therapeutic intervention to children and young people experiencing moderate to severe mental health conditions.
Recurrent funding of £169,000 through the Delivering Care Framework supporting the provision of high-quality care which is safe and effective for the Nursing and Midwifery workforce saw the appointment of a CAMHS Consultant Nurse and a CAMHS Lead Nurse in 2022-23. These posts have been filled and this has enhanced nursing structures within the service.
The CAMHS/Youth life Partnership has also been established, delivering therapeutic support at Step 2 level through counselling. This model has been successfully rolled out in the Omagh/Enniskillen sectors of the Trust for 5 – 18year olds. The Partnership is currently ongoing with recurrent funding which includes monthly audit meetings with Youth life.
A recurrent funding allocation in 2022/2023 of £285,000 also saw the establishment of the CAMHS Emotional Health & Wellbeing Team in School project, 9EWTS). This investment has supported an innovative CAMHS-led Regional response at a universal Step 1 level designed to promote greater capacity for preventative initiatives in the school setting. The EWTS initiative seeks to support allied stakeholders working in educational settings to help promote emotional wellbeing, positive mental health and strengthen self-esteem and resilience in our children in NI. Post primary schools in East Derry/L’Derry, alongside all post primary schools in NI, were invited to avail of this support.
WHSCT CAMHS and the Youth Justice Agency (YJA) have also been working in partnership, from April 2022, to assess and offer intervention in respect to the mental health needs of children and adolescents (under 18) who are potentially at risk of becoming involved with YJA and CAMHS. As part of the initial pilot a dedicated Step 3 CAMHS Senior Mental Health role has been established.
On World Mental Health Day, 10 October 2025, the CAMHS website was also launched. The website is designed to be user friendly and provides immediate access to a comprehensive range of useful resources and up to date information for young people and their families. These resources have been developed with the aim of reaching a large section of the community and are intended to function as part of a wider strategy of promoting good mental health and wellbeing. The website has also been designed as a source of information to reach out to communities and deliver immediate information aimed at reducing stigma and barriers to young people and their families who find it difficult to seek help.
There are continuing efforts to develop resources for young people and parents who are waiting for an ADHD assessment. The intention is to offer support and information for children and young people waiting for assessment through a range of on-line resources designed to engage young people to explore and provide emotional health and wellbeing support and guidance for families and young people. The programmes covered within the online resource are specific to ADHD with an aim to be informative and also to reduce barriers to accessing information to improve emotional and mental health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033285%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454296","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454296"}},{"id":"454295","reference":"AQW 33284/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-10","answerBy":"2025-10-27","answered":"2025-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the funding allocated to the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, in each year since 2021.","answerText":"No additional funding has been provided to my Department to support implementation of the Strategy. As a result, existing Departmental resources have been used to support progress on the Strategy’s actions.\n\nThe table below shows the funding allocated by my Department from 2021/22 to 2025/26 to support delivery of the Mental Health Strategy:\n\nYear\tFunding Allocation\n(£m)\tRequirement within Funding Plan (£m)\n2021/22\t0.65\t0.65\n2022/23\t4.1\t9.59\n2023/24\t5.5\t24.38\n2024/25\t5.9\t42\n2025/26\t5.9\t61.72\n\nThere has also been capital spend of £4.7m from 2020/21 to 2023/24\n\nfor the Northern Trust Mental Health Inpatient Unit.","answerHtml":"No additional funding has been provided to my Department to support implementation of the Strategy. As a result, existing Departmental resources have been used to support progress on the Strategy’s actions.
The table below shows the funding allocated by my Department from 2021/22 to 2025/26 to support delivery of the Mental Health Strategy:
| Year | Funding Allocation (£m) | Requirement within Funding Plan (£m) |
| 2021/22 | 0.65 | 0.65 |
| 2022/23 | 4.1 | 9.59 |
| 2023/24 | 5.5 | 24.38 |
| 2024/25 | 5.9 | 42 |
| 2025/26 | 5.9 | 61.72 |
There has also been capital spend of £4.7m from 2020/21 to 2023/24
for the Northern Trust Mental Health Inpatient Unit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033284%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454295"}},{"id":"454066","reference":"AQW 33174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-09","answerBy":"2025-10-24","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the timeline for the implementation of the provisions for (i) Domestic Abuse Protection Orders; and (ii) Domestic Abuse Protection Notices, legislated for under the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021.","answerText":"Protecting victims of domestic abuse and holding perpetrators to account remain key priorities for me as Minister of Justice. The introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPNs and DAPOs) will represent a new safeguard for victims, allowing for immediate protection in cases where there is a risk of abusive behaviour.\n\nDepartment of Justice officials, in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, continue to progress detailed work to develop a DAPN/O model that is both effective and sustainable within the Northern Ireland context. This work is taking account of operational capacity across the justice system, estimated costs, and, crucially, the needs and safety of victims.\n\nTo inform the design of the Northern Ireland model, officials have undertaken fact-finding visits to pilot areas in England, including Croydon and shortly, Greater Manchester, to gather learning from their experiences. Roundtable discussions have also been held with voluntary and community sector partners, whose expertise and on-the-ground insight have helped to inform the development of a model that will work in practice and deliver meaningful improved protection for victims of domestic abuse. Continued engagement is also taking place with officials in Scotland, who are facing similar challenges in the development and implementation of the approach in that jurisdiction.\n\nGiven the issues that have been encountered in developing the DAPN / DAPO model, including uncertainties around the scale of qualifying cases, I have concluded that it is essential to undertake a Northern Ireland pilot before wider roll-out. This will allow for a robust assessment of operational processes, the scale of demand, and the associated cost and resource implications across agencies.\n\nThe aim is to agree a preferred pilot model with delivery partners by the end of this financial year. Subject to that agreement, it is anticipated that a pilot could commence during the second half of 2026/27. The learning from that pilot will inform decisions on future roll-out and ensure that when DAPN/Os are introduced, they will deliver real, practical and sustainable protection for victims of domestic abuse across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Protecting victims of domestic abuse and holding perpetrators to account remain key priorities for me as Minister of Justice. The introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPNs and DAPOs) will represent a new safeguard for victims, allowing for immediate protection in cases where there is a risk of abusive behaviour.
Department of Justice officials, in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, continue to progress detailed work to develop a DAPN/O model that is both effective and sustainable within the Northern Ireland context. This work is taking account of operational capacity across the justice system, estimated costs, and, crucially, the needs and safety of victims.
To inform the design of the Northern Ireland model, officials have undertaken fact-finding visits to pilot areas in England, including Croydon and shortly, Greater Manchester, to gather learning from their experiences. Roundtable discussions have also been held with voluntary and community sector partners, whose expertise and on-the-ground insight have helped to inform the development of a model that will work in practice and deliver meaningful improved protection for victims of domestic abuse. Continued engagement is also taking place with officials in Scotland, who are facing similar challenges in the development and implementation of the approach in that jurisdiction.
Given the issues that have been encountered in developing the DAPN / DAPO model, including uncertainties around the scale of qualifying cases, I have concluded that it is essential to undertake a Northern Ireland pilot before wider roll-out. This will allow for a robust assessment of operational processes, the scale of demand, and the associated cost and resource implications across agencies.
The aim is to agree a preferred pilot model with delivery partners by the end of this financial year. Subject to that agreement, it is anticipated that a pilot could commence during the second half of 2026/27. The learning from that pilot will inform decisions on future roll-out and ensure that when DAPN/Os are introduced, they will deliver real, practical and sustainable protection for victims of domestic abuse across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454066","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454066"}},{"id":"454065","reference":"AQW 33173/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-09","answerBy":"2025-10-24","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the consultation her Department has had with organisations, such as Women’s Aid, regarding the commencement and operation of (i) Domestic Abuse Protection Orders; and (ii) Domestic Abuse Protection Notices.","answerText":"I fully recognise the vital role that voluntary and community sector partners, including Women’s Aid, play in supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Their knowledge, experience, and the work they do on the frontline are invaluable in helping shape effective policy and practice.\n\nDepartmental officials have been engaging with these partners as part of the development of the model for the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders in Northern Ireland. A roundtable meeting was held in June this year with representatives from the PSNI and a number of voluntary and community organisations, at which officials provided an update on learning from the pilot area in Croydon. Colleagues from Scotland also attended to share insights from their own experience of implementing Domestic Abuse Protection Orders and Notices, including the learning and challenges being encountered within that jurisdiction. A visit to a second pilot area has been arranged and the delegation includes a representative from the voluntary and community sector.\n\nAs work to develop and implement the Northern Ireland model continues, officials will maintain regular engagement with voluntary and community sector partners to ensure their views and expertise continue to inform the approach.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the vital role that voluntary and community sector partners, including Women’s Aid, play in supporting victims and survivors of domestic abuse. Their knowledge, experience, and the work they do on the frontline are invaluable in helping shape effective policy and practice.
Departmental officials have been engaging with these partners as part of the development of the model for the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders in Northern Ireland. A roundtable meeting was held in June this year with representatives from the PSNI and a number of voluntary and community organisations, at which officials provided an update on learning from the pilot area in Croydon. Colleagues from Scotland also attended to share insights from their own experience of implementing Domestic Abuse Protection Orders and Notices, including the learning and challenges being encountered within that jurisdiction. A visit to a second pilot area has been arranged and the delegation includes a representative from the voluntary and community sector.
As work to develop and implement the Northern Ireland model continues, officials will maintain regular engagement with voluntary and community sector partners to ensure their views and expertise continue to inform the approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454065","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454065"}},{"id":"454064","reference":"AQW 33172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-09","answerBy":"2025-10-24","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the impact on victims of domestic abuse as a result of the delay in commencing (i) Domestic Abuse Protection Orders; and (ii) Domestic Abuse Protection Notices.","answerText":"I am deeply aware of the serious impact that domestic abuse has on victims, their families and communities. Protecting victims and preventing further harm is, and will remain, a key priority for me as Minister of Justice. In bringing forward regulations to give effect to Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPNs / DAPOs) my focus has been on ensuring that there are effective and sustainable protections in place for those experiencing abuse, supported by a justice system that responds swiftly and safely to their needs.\n\nMy Department has previously undertaken significant preparatory work to bring forward DAPNs and DAPOs. However, in progressing this work with operational partners, a number of significant operational challenges were identified. It has therefore been important that we take the necessary time to design and deliver a model that is workable and sustainable within a Northern Ireland context and that will provide real and effective protection for victims. It would not be in anyone’s interest to introduce a system that is unworkable or ineffective in practice.\n\nIn the meantime, there are already a range of protections available to victims of domestic abuse, including non-molestation orders, restraining orders and bail conditions. Anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse, or who has concerns about someone else, should report this to the PSNI, who can take immediate action to help keep victims safe.\n\nIt is intended that, once introduced, DAPNs and DAPOs will add an additional layer of protection for victims and to help break the cycle of abuse. Work continues to develop a model that meets the needs of victims, is operationally deliverable, and commands the confidence of both victims and justice partners.","answerHtml":"I am deeply aware of the serious impact that domestic abuse has on victims, their families and communities. Protecting victims and preventing further harm is, and will remain, a key priority for me as Minister of Justice. In bringing forward regulations to give effect to Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPNs / DAPOs) my focus has been on ensuring that there are effective and sustainable protections in place for those experiencing abuse, supported by a justice system that responds swiftly and safely to their needs.
My Department has previously undertaken significant preparatory work to bring forward DAPNs and DAPOs. However, in progressing this work with operational partners, a number of significant operational challenges were identified. It has therefore been important that we take the necessary time to design and deliver a model that is workable and sustainable within a Northern Ireland context and that will provide real and effective protection for victims. It would not be in anyone’s interest to introduce a system that is unworkable or ineffective in practice.
In the meantime, there are already a range of protections available to victims of domestic abuse, including non-molestation orders, restraining orders and bail conditions. Anyone who is a victim of domestic abuse, or who has concerns about someone else, should report this to the PSNI, who can take immediate action to help keep victims safe.
It is intended that, once introduced, DAPNs and DAPOs will add an additional layer of protection for victims and to help break the cycle of abuse. Work continues to develop a model that meets the needs of victims, is operationally deliverable, and commands the confidence of both victims and justice partners.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454064"}},{"id":"454063","reference":"AQW 33171/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-09","answerBy":"2025-10-24","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline any consideration her Department has given to the interaction between (i) Domestic Abuse Protection Orders and Domestic Abuse Protection Notices; and (ii) existing protective measures, such as Non-Molestation Orders.","answerText":"Ensuring that there are effective and proportionate protections in place for victims of domestic abuse remains a key priority for me and my Department. We recognise that victims may require different forms of protection depending on their individual circumstances, and it is therefore important that a range of protective measures are available.\n\nIn developing proposals for the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPN/Os), my officials have given careful consideration to how these new measures will interact with existing protective mechanisms such as Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs), Occupation Orders and Restraining Orders.\n\nThe DAPN/Os are being designed to provide immediate protection to victims of domestic abuse. The intention is that they can be applied for, not only by the victim themselves, but also by police or by another relevant third party, thereby helping to remove the onus from victims to initiate proceedings. I believe this is an important distinction that will help to enhance the available protections for victims of domestic abuse.\n\nIt is intended that the regulations giving effect to DAPNs and DAPOs will empower PSNI and the courts, respectively, to place certain restrictions and / or positive requirements on the individual subject to the DAPN or the DAPO, where these are considered necessary to prevent further abuse. For example, in the case of a DAPN, this might include an immediate requirement for them to leave the family home, or, in the case of a DAPO, a requirement for them to complete a specific programme designed to address the underlying drivers for abuse, such as a substance misuse programme. They are intended to offer protection to victims aged 16 and over.\n\nBy contrast, NMOs can provide protection to both the victim and to any relevant child(ren), preventing the perpetrator from harassing, intimidating, or threatening them. Victims may also qualify for an Occupation Order, which sets out terms restricting the offender from entering or residing in the home. NMOs and Occupation Orders are civil orders, however a breach of either constitutes a criminal offence; the intention is that that DAPOs will also be a civil protection order, however breach of a DAPO would be a criminal offence.\n\nIn addition, other protective measures such as Restraining Orders are also available within the existing framework, which provide further avenues of support and safety for victims of domestic abuse.\n\nThe development of the DAPN/O model is being carefully designed to complement, rather than duplicate, these existing provisions, ensuring a coherent and victim-centred system of protection in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that there are effective and proportionate protections in place for victims of domestic abuse remains a key priority for me and my Department. We recognise that victims may require different forms of protection depending on their individual circumstances, and it is therefore important that a range of protective measures are available.
In developing proposals for the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders (DAPN/Os), my officials have given careful consideration to how these new measures will interact with existing protective mechanisms such as Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs), Occupation Orders and Restraining Orders.
The DAPN/Os are being designed to provide immediate protection to victims of domestic abuse. The intention is that they can be applied for, not only by the victim themselves, but also by police or by another relevant third party, thereby helping to remove the onus from victims to initiate proceedings. I believe this is an important distinction that will help to enhance the available protections for victims of domestic abuse.
It is intended that the regulations giving effect to DAPNs and DAPOs will empower PSNI and the courts, respectively, to place certain restrictions and / or positive requirements on the individual subject to the DAPN or the DAPO, where these are considered necessary to prevent further abuse. For example, in the case of a DAPN, this might include an immediate requirement for them to leave the family home, or, in the case of a DAPO, a requirement for them to complete a specific programme designed to address the underlying drivers for abuse, such as a substance misuse programme. They are intended to offer protection to victims aged 16 and over.
By contrast, NMOs can provide protection to both the victim and to any relevant child(ren), preventing the perpetrator from harassing, intimidating, or threatening them. Victims may also qualify for an Occupation Order, which sets out terms restricting the offender from entering or residing in the home. NMOs and Occupation Orders are civil orders, however a breach of either constitutes a criminal offence; the intention is that that DAPOs will also be a civil protection order, however breach of a DAPO would be a criminal offence.
In addition, other protective measures such as Restraining Orders are also available within the existing framework, which provide further avenues of support and safety for victims of domestic abuse.
The development of the DAPN/O model is being carefully designed to complement, rather than duplicate, these existing provisions, ensuring a coherent and victim-centred system of protection in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033171%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454063","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454063"}},{"id":"453844","reference":"AQW 33068/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) how current regeneration policy is supporting small businesses in East Londonderry; and (ii) whether recent programmes have addressed the needs of local town centres.","answerText":"My Department continues to develop a range of regeneration schemes with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council throughout East Londonderry such as the current Revitalisation Scheme providing £150,000 to small businesses in Limavady. Furthermore, small businesses in rural areas such as: Garvagh, Greysteel, Kilrea, Magilligan and Drumsurn are benefitting from approximately £300,000 part-funding from my Department under the COVID Recovery Small Settlements Programme. My Department has also funded approximately £2,800,000 on Public Realm Schemes in Portrush since 2020 and sixty small businesses have benefited from a £300,000 Revitalisation Scheme in Coleraine Town Centre in 2023.\n\nMy Department is also leading on the Shaping Sustainable Places Programme, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure. This programme will require NI Executive approval, and if approved, will focus on regeneration interventions prioritised by Local Councils.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to develop a range of regeneration schemes with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council throughout East Londonderry such as the current Revitalisation Scheme providing £150,000 to small businesses in Limavady. Furthermore, small businesses in rural areas such as: Garvagh, Greysteel, Kilrea, Magilligan and Drumsurn are benefitting from approximately £300,000 part-funding from my Department under the COVID Recovery Small Settlements Programme. My Department has also funded approximately £2,800,000 on Public Realm Schemes in Portrush since 2020 and sixty small businesses have benefited from a £300,000 Revitalisation Scheme in Coleraine Town Centre in 2023.
My Department is also leading on the Shaping Sustainable Places Programme, in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure. This programme will require NI Executive approval, and if approved, will focus on regeneration interventions prioritised by Local Councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033068%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453844","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453844"}},{"id":"453843","reference":"AQW 33067/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how the current transport policy is addressing public transport provision in East Londonderry, particularly in rural areas where services remain limited.","answerText":"The draft Transport Strategy sets out a new vision and strategic priorities for our transport system through to 2035 aiming to support economic growth, regional balance, and improved connectivity across both urban and rural areas. The public consultation closed at the end of September 2025, and officials are now analysing responses to help shape a system that meets the needs of all communities.\n\nIn addition, East Derry is covered by two Local Transport Plans: The Northwest Transport Plan and the Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan. These transport plans are being developed in an integrated manner with each of the council’s Local Development Plans. For this reason, these plans are at very different stages in their development.\n\nMy department is currently progressing Stage 1 of the Northwest Transport Plan (NWTP), which will guide future transport investment across the Northwest region. The Plan will identify proposals to address local transport issues, including local bus services, active travel, local road network and parking. It will provide most local detail in Derry and Strabane and this will be for the plan period up to 2035. A Baseline Report has been initially prepared to support the development of the NWTP. However, the Plans work is not sufficiently advanced at this stage to provide commentary on proposed transport measures. The Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan is currently at the earlier mobilisation phase and is not yet sufficiently advanced at this time.\n\nMy Department provides funding to Translink to provide public transport services and facilities. This means creating a consistent customer experience for everyone, ensuring accessible public transport for people of all ages and abilities. Both the Translink website and App can provide transport options from any location, address or stop, urban and rural, where transport links exist. The website and app allow for address-to-address planning, park & ride planner and a bike it option. All major hospitals have public transport stop listings.\n\nMy department also provides grant support for Dial-a-Lift, a member only rural door to destination transport service which improves access to local goods and services, helping people travel independently and connected to their local communities. Grant support is also provided to support the Disability Action Transport Scheme which is a member only urban door to destination transport service operating in Limavady and Coleraine.\n\nI have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes across all areas in the north. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services.","answerHtml":"The draft Transport Strategy sets out a new vision and strategic priorities for our transport system through to 2035 aiming to support economic growth, regional balance, and improved connectivity across both urban and rural areas. The public consultation closed at the end of September 2025, and officials are now analysing responses to help shape a system that meets the needs of all communities.
In addition, East Derry is covered by two Local Transport Plans: The Northwest Transport Plan and the Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan. These transport plans are being developed in an integrated manner with each of the council’s Local Development Plans. For this reason, these plans are at very different stages in their development.
My department is currently progressing Stage 1 of the Northwest Transport Plan (NWTP), which will guide future transport investment across the Northwest region. The Plan will identify proposals to address local transport issues, including local bus services, active travel, local road network and parking. It will provide most local detail in Derry and Strabane and this will be for the plan period up to 2035. A Baseline Report has been initially prepared to support the development of the NWTP. However, the Plans work is not sufficiently advanced at this stage to provide commentary on proposed transport measures. The Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan is currently at the earlier mobilisation phase and is not yet sufficiently advanced at this time.
My Department provides funding to Translink to provide public transport services and facilities. This means creating a consistent customer experience for everyone, ensuring accessible public transport for people of all ages and abilities. Both the Translink website and App can provide transport options from any location, address or stop, urban and rural, where transport links exist. The website and app allow for address-to-address planning, park & ride planner and a bike it option. All major hospitals have public transport stop listings.
My department also provides grant support for Dial-a-Lift, a member only rural door to destination transport service which improves access to local goods and services, helping people travel independently and connected to their local communities. Grant support is also provided to support the Disability Action Transport Scheme which is a member only urban door to destination transport service operating in Limavady and Coleraine.
I have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes across all areas in the north. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453843"}},{"id":"453842","reference":"AQW 33066/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on the delivery of Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal projects; and (ii) how her Department is ensuring these commitments deliver tangible benefits for local businesses.","answerText":"My Department is currently supporting the Causeway Coast & Glens Growth Deal with four projects. These are The Centre for Food & Drug Discovery (CfFDD), Business Innovation and Incubation Hub (BIIH), Foodovation & Skills Centre and Connected Causeway. The Centre for Food & Drug Discovery is at the final stages of approval while the other projects are progressing in business case development.\n\nThis collaborative approach between the Department, the Councils and its partners is central to ensuring the Growth Deal delivers maximum impact for the region, including supporting job creation, fostering innovation, and enhancing regional competitiveness. Through Invest NI and partners we will focus on creating new opportunities for local firms to engage in supply chains, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to access innovation facilities, and helping to develop the skills needed by local employers.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently supporting the Causeway Coast & Glens Growth Deal with four projects. These are The Centre for Food & Drug Discovery (CfFDD), Business Innovation and Incubation Hub (BIIH), Foodovation & Skills Centre and Connected Causeway. The Centre for Food & Drug Discovery is at the final stages of approval while the other projects are progressing in business case development.
This collaborative approach between the Department, the Councils and its partners is central to ensuring the Growth Deal delivers maximum impact for the region, including supporting job creation, fostering innovation, and enhancing regional competitiveness. Through Invest NI and partners we will focus on creating new opportunities for local firms to engage in supply chains, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises to access innovation facilities, and helping to develop the skills needed by local employers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033066%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453842"}},{"id":"453841","reference":"AQW 33065/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how the current higher education policy is ensuring the long-term viability of Ulster University’s Coleraine campus, given recent investment at other university sites.","answerText":"My Department works in partnership with Ulster University to deliver investment across all of its campuses, including Coleraine, ensuring the appropriate skills needs for the region continue to be met. A procurement exercise is currently underway to appoint external consultants to carry out an independent assessment of the costs associated with the university’s multi-campus model. My Department is also working with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council and Ulster University to develop proposals for a Centre for Food and Drug Discovery at Coleraine, as part of the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal.","answerHtml":"My Department works in partnership with Ulster University to deliver investment across all of its campuses, including Coleraine, ensuring the appropriate skills needs for the region continue to be met. A procurement exercise is currently underway to appoint external consultants to carry out an independent assessment of the costs associated with the university’s multi-campus model. My Department is also working with Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council and Ulster University to develop proposals for a Centre for Food and Drug Discovery at Coleraine, as part of the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033065%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453841"}},{"id":"453840","reference":"AQW 33064/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-08","answerBy":"2025-10-23","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail her Department's assessment of Invest NI’s support in Causeway Coast and Glens over the last five years; and (ii) whether this reflects her Department’s commitment to balanced regional economic growth.","answerText":"There are currently 6,340 registered businesses in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area, accounting for 8% of all businesses in the North. The area accounts for 3% of the region’s exports and is home to 6% of the region’s exporters. Over the last five-year period Invest NI has assisted 619 investments, including job creation projects, providing £14m of financial assistance to businesses in the council area. The assistance provide by Invest NI is expected to unlock £95m of investment in the council area and lead to the creation of 550 new jobs. Invest NI published its new strategy last year entitled ‘Our Future in Focus’ (Invest NI Business Strategy 2024-2027 (PDF)). This strategy is directly aligned with my department’s commitment to balanced regional growth. To deliver against this strategy, Invest NI is implementing a new regional approach that is seeing it increasing the capacity and capability across its regional office network, assisting it to seek out, identify and engage with more companies than ever before. This involves attracting businesses that are new to Invest NI, enhancing the support, advice and guidance it provides to companies, as well as implementing a new purposeful partnership approach with its stakeholders and partners to align and maximise the impact of all of our work. To measure its success, Invest NI have set ambitious targets, including a new target to increase the number of investments outside the Belfast Metropolitan Area to 65% by the final year of their Business Strategy, 2026/27. Over the previous 5 years the average was c.56%. This is one of the first steps in a long-term commitment to better shape economic performance right across the North to provide better outcomes for all our people. Many of our regional challenges are deep seated, requiring multi-agency responses and investments, and will therefore not be addressed within Invest NI’s current business strategy period. Nevertheless, Invest NI and my department are fully committed to working with all partners to play our part in effecting real, meaningful change.","answerHtml":"There are currently 6,340 registered businesses in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area, accounting for 8% of all businesses in the North. The area accounts for 3% of the region’s exports and is home to 6% of the region’s exporters. Over the last five-year period Invest NI has assisted 619 investments, including job creation projects, providing £14m of financial assistance to businesses in the council area. The assistance provide by Invest NI is expected to unlock £95m of investment in the council area and lead to the creation of 550 new jobs. Invest NI published its new strategy last year entitled ‘Our Future in Focus’ (Invest NI Business Strategy 2024-2027 (PDF)). This strategy is directly aligned with my department’s commitment to balanced regional growth. To deliver against this strategy, Invest NI is implementing a new regional approach that is seeing it increasing the capacity and capability across its regional office network, assisting it to seek out, identify and engage with more companies than ever before. This involves attracting businesses that are new to Invest NI, enhancing the support, advice and guidance it provides to companies, as well as implementing a new purposeful partnership approach with its stakeholders and partners to align and maximise the impact of all of our work. To measure its success, Invest NI have set ambitious targets, including a new target to increase the number of investments outside the Belfast Metropolitan Area to 65% by the final year of their Business Strategy, 2026/27. Over the previous 5 years the average was c.56%. This is one of the first steps in a long-term commitment to better shape economic performance right across the North to provide better outcomes for all our people. Many of our regional challenges are deep seated, requiring multi-agency responses and investments, and will therefore not be addressed within Invest NI’s current business strategy period. Nevertheless, Invest NI and my department are fully committed to working with all partners to play our part in effecting real, meaningful change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2033064%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453840"}},{"id":"453573","reference":"AQW 32934/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline how improvements from wastewater infrastructure upgrades in East Londonderry are measured, in terms of reduced sewage discharges and improved bathing water quality.","answerText":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:\n\nThe Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s Summary Guidance Document in relation to intermittent discharges (storm overflows), identifies that assets within 2km of identified bathing waters have the potential to impact bathing water quality and sets standards for assets accordingly.\n\nIn the North, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is responsible for monitoring bathing water quality, to ensure that coastal waters meet safety standards for public bathing. DAERA’s efforts are in line with the Quality of Bathing Water Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008, which require regular testing and reporting of water quality results to the public. The NI Direct website lists the results for the 2024 bathing season (bathing water quality) and all bathing waters within East Derry are classified as having excellent status. The results for the 2025 bathing season are due to be published in the near future.\n\nIn addition, to date, NI Water has not upgraded any assets within 2km of a designated bathing water in East Derry in the current Price Control 21 period.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency’s Summary Guidance Document in relation to intermittent discharges (storm overflows), identifies that assets within 2km of identified bathing waters have the potential to impact bathing water quality and sets standards for assets accordingly.
In the North, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is responsible for monitoring bathing water quality, to ensure that coastal waters meet safety standards for public bathing. DAERA’s efforts are in line with the Quality of Bathing Water Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2008, which require regular testing and reporting of water quality results to the public. The NI Direct website lists the results for the 2024 bathing season (bathing water quality) and all bathing waters within East Derry are classified as having excellent status. The results for the 2025 bathing season are due to be published in the near future.
In addition, to date, NI Water has not upgraded any assets within 2km of a designated bathing water in East Derry in the current Price Control 21 period.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032934%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453573","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453573"}},{"id":"453572","reference":"AQW 32933/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department will consider introducing legislation to require NI Water to provide continuous or real-time monitoring of sewage discharges, in line with the approach taken in Great Britain under the Environment Act 2021.","answerText":"The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is responsible for monitoring water quality, including carrying out sampling, monitoring and investigations, and would therefore be best placed to consider if new legislation is required.\n\nHowever, NI Water has advised that it is currently working with DAERA to develop a pilot project for near real time Event Duration Monitoring (EDM) reporting to support DAERA in making assessments of public health risks for water users, particularly bathers. In addition, as of September 2025, NI Water has approximately 655 EDMs installed and sufficiently verified to support effective use for operational maintenance and monitoring. Of these, 222 EDMs have been fully quality assured for both operational maintenance and release of spill count data to the public, via NI Water’s storm overflow webpage (NI Water's Storm Overflows).\n\nBy the end of Price Control 21 (31 March 2028), NI Water aims to have approximately 40% of its 2,430 storm overflows fitted with EDMs. This ongoing programme of installation of EDMs will continue into Price Control 28 (2028-2034), subject to funding.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) is responsible for monitoring water quality, including carrying out sampling, monitoring and investigations, and would therefore be best placed to consider if new legislation is required.
However, NI Water has advised that it is currently working with DAERA to develop a pilot project for near real time Event Duration Monitoring (EDM) reporting to support DAERA in making assessments of public health risks for water users, particularly bathers. In addition, as of September 2025, NI Water has approximately 655 EDMs installed and sufficiently verified to support effective use for operational maintenance and monitoring. Of these, 222 EDMs have been fully quality assured for both operational maintenance and release of spill count data to the public, via NI Water’s storm overflow webpage (NI Water's Storm Overflows).
By the end of Price Control 21 (31 March 2028), NI Water aims to have approximately 40% of its 2,430 storm overflows fitted with EDMs. This ongoing programme of installation of EDMs will continue into Price Control 28 (2028-2034), subject to funding.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032933%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453572","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453572"}},{"id":"453571","reference":"AQW 32932/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of Pollution Risk Forecasts issued for designated bathing waters, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The bathing water quality prediction app, ‘Swim NI’, provides daily pollution forecasts of bathing water quality at six beaches, enabling bathers to make an informed choice about potential exposure to bacteria that can cause illness. This project has provided predictions for four bathing seasons (2022-2025) and is a collaboration between my Department, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.\n\nThe number of predictions over the last 4 bathing seasons per constituency are as follows:\n\nConstituency\n(Bathing water(s) in italics)\tYear\n2022\t2023\t2024\t2025\nEast Londonderry\nCastlerock, Portrush Curran\t214\t214\t214\t214\nEast Antrim\nWaterfoot\t107\t107\t107\t107\nNorth Down\nBallyholme\t107\t107\t107\t107\nStrangford\nBallywalter\t107\t107\t107\t107\nSouth Down\nNewcastle\t107\t107\t107\t107","answerHtml":"The bathing water quality prediction app, ‘Swim NI’, provides daily pollution forecasts of bathing water quality at six beaches, enabling bathers to make an informed choice about potential exposure to bacteria that can cause illness. This project has provided predictions for four bathing seasons (2022-2025) and is a collaboration between my Department, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute and Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful.
The number of predictions over the last 4 bathing seasons per constituency are as follows:
| Constituency (Bathing water(s) in italics) | Year | |||
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 | |
| East Londonderry Castlerock, Portrush Curran | 214 | 214 | 214 | 214 |
| East Antrim Waterfoot | 107 | 107 | 107 | 107 |
| North Down Ballyholme | 107 | 107 | 107 | 107 |
| Strangford Ballywalter | 107 | 107 | 107 | 107 |
| South Down Newcastle | 107 | 107 | 107 | 107 |
Currently the bathing season runs from the 1 June to the 15 September each year. Responses to the last Bathing Water Review in 2022/23 indicated public support for an extension to the season. Given the potential for significant change to the policy, my department has been sampling outside of the bathing season to inform future policy direction. This data is published on the department’s website and is available via the NI Bathing Water Dashboard.
I have also recently committed to a new Bathing Waters Policy Review for Northern Ireland which will commence shortly. The length to the bathing season will be considered as part of this review.
In addition, due to the public health implication of blue green algae, monitoring continued this year outside of the bathing season at sites likely to be at risk on the North Coast.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032931%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453570","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453570"}},{"id":"453569","reference":"AQW 32930/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-07","answerBy":"2025-10-22","answered":"2025-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether his Department intends to review the level of fines and sanctions available for illegal discharges into waterways.","answerText":"My Department is currently undertaking a public consultation on policy proposals aimed at strengthening the protection of the water environment. This consultation, which closes on 6 November 2025, will inform the development of the forthcoming Fisheries and Water Environment Bill.\n\nThe proposed policies seek to enhance the enforcement regime by introducing more robust measures to deter non-compliance, improve regulatory control, and strengthen enforcement capabilities.\n\nThrough the Bill, I intend to increase existing fines and penalties to bring them into alignment with those in other jurisdictions for a range of offences, such as illegal discharges into waterways. Additionally, the Bill will provide the power to introduce Fixed Penalty Notices and both Fixed and Variable Monetary Penalties for a spectrum of offences impacting the water environment. These measures are designed to provide a more immediate and proportionate deterrent for minor and moderate breaches of environmental legislation.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently undertaking a public consultation on policy proposals aimed at strengthening the protection of the water environment. This consultation, which closes on 6 November 2025, will inform the development of the forthcoming Fisheries and Water Environment Bill.
The proposed policies seek to enhance the enforcement regime by introducing more robust measures to deter non-compliance, improve regulatory control, and strengthen enforcement capabilities.
Through the Bill, I intend to increase existing fines and penalties to bring them into alignment with those in other jurisdictions for a range of offences, such as illegal discharges into waterways. Additionally, the Bill will provide the power to introduce Fixed Penalty Notices and both Fixed and Variable Monetary Penalties for a spectrum of offences impacting the water environment. These measures are designed to provide a more immediate and proportionate deterrent for minor and moderate breaches of environmental legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032930%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453569","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453569"}},{"id":"453123","reference":"AQW 32825/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-06","answerBy":"2025-10-21","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will establish a regional diagnostic and treatment pathway for adults with ADHD, similar to those available elsewhere in the UK and Ireland.","answerText":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.\n\nThe Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.\n\nThe needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including proposed referral pathways and potential implementation and staffing costs. The needs assessment includes consideration of the impact of untreated ADHD on wider services.\n\nA wide selection of stakeholders have contributed to the development of the needs assessment, including representatives from the Department of Health, HSC Trusts, clinicians, the Community and Voluntary sector and people with lived experience, including service users and carers, amongst others.\n\nWhile the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.","answerHtml":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.
The Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.
The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including proposed referral pathways and potential implementation and staffing costs. The needs assessment includes consideration of the impact of untreated ADHD on wider services.
A wide selection of stakeholders have contributed to the development of the needs assessment, including representatives from the Department of Health, HSC Trusts, clinicians, the Community and Voluntary sector and people with lived experience, including service users and carers, amongst others.
While the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032825%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453123"}},{"id":"453122","reference":"AQW 32824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-06","answerBy":"2025-10-21","answered":"2025-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of adults estimated to have ADHD; and (ii) how his Department is planning to meet their needs in the absence of specialist services.","answerText":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.\n\nAlthough there is no commissioned Adult ADHD service, Belfast; Northern and Southern Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts provide a level of provision.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust reconfigured a small resource (0.5 Consultant Psychiatry) from within adult teams to process these referrals. Current waiting is in excess of 3500, waiting times for an ADHD assessment based on current provision is 8 years from the point of referral.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) in response to demand for Adult ADHD services; decided to progress with a small, unfunded pilot for service users who had been referred to the Trust. This pilot captured need by placing people on a waiting list and then offering an appointment with the Trust. Part of the process detailed pre-screening to ensure assessments are offered; where there is a high likelihood of Adult ADHD. All patients on any waiting lists remain under the care of their GP. This pilot approach has taken time to establish given the preparatory work required. Communication with individuals on the register commenced in December 2023, in chronological order of date of original referral.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) in response to demand, has progressed a small unfunded service for those patients who have transferred with an existing diagnosis and who are prescribed medication and require monitoring as per NICE Guidelines. For patients awaiting a diagnostic assessment, the demand for ADHD assessment far outweighs capacity, which is resulting in long waiting times of several years.\n\nSEHSCT receives referrals for Adult Mental Health Services via Mental Health Assessment Centres located in Newtownards, Lisburn and Downpatrick. Individuals, including those with a potential/confirmed co-morbid ADHD diagnosis are offered a mental health assessment and are managed via the adult mental health core care pathway, where appropriate.\n\nThere is no adult ADHD diagnostic service in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, therefore there is no waiting list for ADHD diagnostic assessment. If a person is diagnosed with ADHD in children’s services and required ongoing medication management by a Consultant Psychiatrist, they will continue to receive regular reviews by a Consultant Psychiatrist in adult mental health services.\n\nThe Western Health and Social Care Trust is not commissioned to deliver ADHD assessment. The pathway for ADHD into WHSCT adult services is through transition from CAMHS to Adult Recovery Services where Trust diagnosis has been delivered within CAMHS and concordance with medication is evident.\n\nThe National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates that 3-4% of the adults in the UK have ADHD.\n\nThe Department commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.\n\nThe needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including potential implementation and staffing costs.\n\nWhile the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the extensive stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.\n\nIn line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission adult ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.","answerHtml":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.
Although there is no commissioned Adult ADHD service, Belfast; Northern and Southern Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts provide a level of provision.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust reconfigured a small resource (0.5 Consultant Psychiatry) from within adult teams to process these referrals. Current waiting is in excess of 3500, waiting times for an ADHD assessment based on current provision is 8 years from the point of referral.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) in response to demand for Adult ADHD services; decided to progress with a small, unfunded pilot for service users who had been referred to the Trust. This pilot captured need by placing people on a waiting list and then offering an appointment with the Trust. Part of the process detailed pre-screening to ensure assessments are offered; where there is a high likelihood of Adult ADHD. All patients on any waiting lists remain under the care of their GP. This pilot approach has taken time to establish given the preparatory work required. Communication with individuals on the register commenced in December 2023, in chronological order of date of original referral.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) in response to demand, has progressed a small unfunded service for those patients who have transferred with an existing diagnosis and who are prescribed medication and require monitoring as per NICE Guidelines. For patients awaiting a diagnostic assessment, the demand for ADHD assessment far outweighs capacity, which is resulting in long waiting times of several years.
SEHSCT receives referrals for Adult Mental Health Services via Mental Health Assessment Centres located in Newtownards, Lisburn and Downpatrick. Individuals, including those with a potential/confirmed co-morbid ADHD diagnosis are offered a mental health assessment and are managed via the adult mental health core care pathway, where appropriate.
There is no adult ADHD diagnostic service in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, therefore there is no waiting list for ADHD diagnostic assessment. If a person is diagnosed with ADHD in children’s services and required ongoing medication management by a Consultant Psychiatrist, they will continue to receive regular reviews by a Consultant Psychiatrist in adult mental health services.
The Western Health and Social Care Trust is not commissioned to deliver ADHD assessment. The pathway for ADHD into WHSCT adult services is through transition from CAMHS to Adult Recovery Services where Trust diagnosis has been delivered within CAMHS and concordance with medication is evident.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates that 3-4% of the adults in the UK have ADHD.
The Department commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.
The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including potential implementation and staffing costs.
While the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the extensive stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.
In line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission adult ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453122"}},{"id":"453121","reference":"AQW 32823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-06","answerBy":"2025-10-21","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what assessment his Department has made of the impact of untreated ADHD in adults on wider services, including employment, education, mental health, and criminal justice.","answerText":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.\n\nThe Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.\n\nThe needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including proposed referral pathways and potential implementation and staffing costs. The needs assessment includes consideration of the impact of untreated ADHD on wider services.\n\nA wide selection of stakeholders have contributed to the development of the needs assessment, including representatives from the Department of Health, HSC Trusts, clinicians, the Community and Voluntary sector and people with lived experience, including service users and carers, amongst others.\n\nWhile the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.","answerHtml":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.
The Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.
The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including proposed referral pathways and potential implementation and staffing costs. The needs assessment includes consideration of the impact of untreated ADHD on wider services.
A wide selection of stakeholders have contributed to the development of the needs assessment, including representatives from the Department of Health, HSC Trusts, clinicians, the Community and Voluntary sector and people with lived experience, including service users and carers, amongst others.
While the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453121"}},{"id":"453120","reference":"AQW 32822/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-06","answerBy":"2025-10-21","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has engaged with (i) service users; (ii) clinicians; and (iii) charities, to develop proposals for adult ADHD services.","answerText":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.\n\nThe Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.\n\nThe needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including proposed referral pathways and potential implementation and staffing costs. The needs assessment includes consideration of the impact of untreated ADHD on wider services.\n\nA wide selection of stakeholders have contributed to the development of the needs assessment, including representatives from the Department of Health, HSC Trusts, clinicians, the Community and Voluntary sector and people with lived experience, including service users and carers, amongst others.\n\nWhile the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.","answerHtml":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.
The Department of Health commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.
The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including proposed referral pathways and potential implementation and staffing costs. The needs assessment includes consideration of the impact of untreated ADHD on wider services.
A wide selection of stakeholders have contributed to the development of the needs assessment, including representatives from the Department of Health, HSC Trusts, clinicians, the Community and Voluntary sector and people with lived experience, including service users and carers, amongst others.
While the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the desire and demand for further stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032822%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453120"}},{"id":"453119","reference":"AQW 32821/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-06","answerBy":"2025-10-21","answered":"2025-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what dedicated services are available for adults with ADHD.","answerText":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.\n\nAlthough there is no commissioned Adult ADHD service, Belfast; Northern and Southern Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts provide a level of provision.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust reconfigured a small resource (0.5 Consultant Psychiatry) from within adult teams to process these referrals. Current waiting is in excess of 3500, waiting times for an ADHD assessment based on current provision is 8 years from the point of referral.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) in response to demand for Adult ADHD services; decided to progress with a small, unfunded pilot for service users who had been referred to the Trust. This pilot captured need by placing people on a waiting list and then offering an appointment with the Trust. Part of the process detailed pre-screening to ensure assessments are offered; where there is a high likelihood of Adult ADHD. All patients on any waiting lists remain under the care of their GP. This pilot approach has taken time to establish given the preparatory work required. Communication with individuals on the register commenced in December 2023, in chronological order of date of original referral.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) in response to demand, has progressed a small unfunded service for those patients who have transferred with an existing diagnosis and who are prescribed medication and require monitoring as per NICE Guidelines. For patients awaiting a diagnostic assessment, the demand for ADHD assessment far outweighs capacity, which is resulting in long waiting times of several years.\n\nSEHSCT receives referrals for Adult Mental Health Services via Mental Health Assessment Centres located in Newtownards, Lisburn and Downpatrick. Individuals, including those with a potential/confirmed co-morbid ADHD diagnosis are offered a mental health assessment and are managed via the adult mental health core care pathway, where appropriate.\n\nThere is no adult ADHD diagnostic service in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, therefore there is no waiting list for ADHD diagnostic assessment. If a person is diagnosed with ADHD in children’s services and required ongoing medication management by a Consultant Psychiatrist, they will continue to receive regular reviews by a Consultant Psychiatrist in adult mental health services.\n\nThe Western Health and Social Care Trust is not commissioned to deliver ADHD assessment. The pathway for ADHD into WHSCT adult services is through transition from CAMHS to Adult Recovery Services where Trust diagnosis has been delivered within CAMHS and concordance with medication is evident.\n\nThe National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates that 3-4% of the adults in the UK have ADHD.\n\nThe Department commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.\n\nThe needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including potential implementation and staffing costs.\n\nWhile the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the extensive stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.\n\nIn line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission adult ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.","answerHtml":"There is currently no commissioned service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in Northern Ireland. ADHD provision has evolved across Trusts in response to population demand and expertise within HSC teams. There is some provision available across the Health and Social Care system, but there are inconsistencies and lengthy waiting lists across Trusts.
Although there is no commissioned Adult ADHD service, Belfast; Northern and Southern Eastern Health and Social Care Trusts provide a level of provision.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust reconfigured a small resource (0.5 Consultant Psychiatry) from within adult teams to process these referrals. Current waiting is in excess of 3500, waiting times for an ADHD assessment based on current provision is 8 years from the point of referral.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) in response to demand for Adult ADHD services; decided to progress with a small, unfunded pilot for service users who had been referred to the Trust. This pilot captured need by placing people on a waiting list and then offering an appointment with the Trust. Part of the process detailed pre-screening to ensure assessments are offered; where there is a high likelihood of Adult ADHD. All patients on any waiting lists remain under the care of their GP. This pilot approach has taken time to establish given the preparatory work required. Communication with individuals on the register commenced in December 2023, in chronological order of date of original referral.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) in response to demand, has progressed a small unfunded service for those patients who have transferred with an existing diagnosis and who are prescribed medication and require monitoring as per NICE Guidelines. For patients awaiting a diagnostic assessment, the demand for ADHD assessment far outweighs capacity, which is resulting in long waiting times of several years.
SEHSCT receives referrals for Adult Mental Health Services via Mental Health Assessment Centres located in Newtownards, Lisburn and Downpatrick. Individuals, including those with a potential/confirmed co-morbid ADHD diagnosis are offered a mental health assessment and are managed via the adult mental health core care pathway, where appropriate.
There is no adult ADHD diagnostic service in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, therefore there is no waiting list for ADHD diagnostic assessment. If a person is diagnosed with ADHD in children’s services and required ongoing medication management by a Consultant Psychiatrist, they will continue to receive regular reviews by a Consultant Psychiatrist in adult mental health services.
The Western Health and Social Care Trust is not commissioned to deliver ADHD assessment. The pathway for ADHD into WHSCT adult services is through transition from CAMHS to Adult Recovery Services where Trust diagnosis has been delivered within CAMHS and concordance with medication is evident.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) estimates that 3-4% of the adults in the UK have ADHD.
The Department commissioned a needs assessment on ADHD in early February 2025, the findings of which will help inform options for a commissioned ADHD service across Trusts, subject to future budget availability.
The needs assessment, which covers both adults and children, will aim to determine the level of demand for a commissioned service, as well as recommendations for what such a service might look like, including potential implementation and staffing costs.
While the initial estimated completion date was end June 2025, due to the extensive stakeholder engagement, information gathering and analysis required, it is likely that the work will now be completed by November 2025. Given the importance of this work in informing future ADHD service provision, it is important that sufficient time is given to ensure a robust evidence base and proposals.
In line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission adult ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=453119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=453119"}},{"id":"452800","reference":"AQW 32724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-03","answerBy":"2025-10-20","answered":"2025-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether unpaid carers will be explicitly recognised in the final Anti-Poverty Strategy, given their absence from the current draft.","answerText":"In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which is both sustainable and deliverable and which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of unpaid carers.\n\nFollowing the close of the Public Consultation on the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy on 19 September, my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received and I will report the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues.\n\nDecisions on the final content of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to agreement by the Executive.","answerHtml":"In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which is both sustainable and deliverable and which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of unpaid carers.
Following the close of the Public Consultation on the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy on 19 September, my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received and I will report the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues.
Decisions on the final content of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to agreement by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452800"}},{"id":"452799","reference":"AQW 32723/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-03","answerBy":"2025-10-20","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the Anti-Poverty Strategy will respond to the poverty experienced by unpaid carers, many of whom are unable to remain in paid work due to their caring responsibilities.","answerText":"I agree that unpaid carers fulfil an essential role. Where possible, I want to ensure that my Department and the cross-Executive work that my Department leads reflects and supports this role. Carer’s Allowance, for example, is the main benefit support targeted towards certain unpaid carers, aiming to provide a measure of financial support for people who give up the opportunity of full-time employment in order to provide regular and substantial care.\n\nIn June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which is both sustainable and deliverable and which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of unpaid carers.\n\nThe Anti-Poverty Strategy Public Consultation closed on 19 September and my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy.","answerHtml":"I agree that unpaid carers fulfil an essential role. Where possible, I want to ensure that my Department and the cross-Executive work that my Department leads reflects and supports this role. Carer’s Allowance, for example, is the main benefit support targeted towards certain unpaid carers, aiming to provide a measure of financial support for people who give up the opportunity of full-time employment in order to provide regular and substantial care.
In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which is both sustainable and deliverable and which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of unpaid carers.
The Anti-Poverty Strategy Public Consultation closed on 19 September and my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032723%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452799"}},{"id":"452798","reference":"AQW 32722/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-03","answerBy":"2025-10-20","answered":"2025-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps he will take to ensure that the lived experiences of unpaid carers, including financial hardship, stress and isolation, are reflected in the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerText":"In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy.\n\nThis consultation involved input from, a wide range of stakeholders from across the community and voluntary sector including organisations which have members who are carers and those who represent carers directly.\n\nThe Anti-Poverty Strategy Public Consultation closed on 19 September and my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy for Executive consideration and approval.","answerHtml":"In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy.
This consultation involved input from, a wide range of stakeholders from across the community and voluntary sector including organisations which have members who are carers and those who represent carers directly.
The Anti-Poverty Strategy Public Consultation closed on 19 September and my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy for Executive consideration and approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032722%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452798","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452798"}},{"id":"452797","reference":"AQW 32721/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-03","answerBy":"2025-10-20","answered":"2025-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any engagement his Department has had with unpaid carers, and their representative organisations, in developing the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerText":"I am aware of the challenges faced by carers having met with representatives of Carers NI earlier this year.\n\nIn addition to this, the public consultation on the draft Anti-poverty Strategy which ran from June to September involved input from a wide range of stakeholders from across the community and voluntary sector. This included organisations which have members who are carers and those who represent carers directly.\n\nThe Anti-Poverty Strategy Public Consultation closed on 19 September, and my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy for Executive consideration and approval.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the challenges faced by carers having met with representatives of Carers NI earlier this year.
In addition to this, the public consultation on the draft Anti-poverty Strategy which ran from June to September involved input from a wide range of stakeholders from across the community and voluntary sector. This included organisations which have members who are carers and those who represent carers directly.
The Anti-Poverty Strategy Public Consultation closed on 19 September, and my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy for Executive consideration and approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032721%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452797","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452797"}},{"id":"452796","reference":"AQW 32720/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-03","answerBy":"2025-10-20","answered":"2025-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will consider incorporating measures such as (i) a carer’s essential payment; (ii) reforms to Carer’s Allowance; and (iii) improved workplace rights, when finalising the Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerText":"In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which is both sustainable and deliverable and which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of unpaid carers.\n\nFollowing the close of the Public Consultation on the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy on 19 September, my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received. I will report the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy.\n\nAt this time there are no plans for additional payments for unpaid carers. Decisions around the provision of any additional payments, including the funding arrangements, is a matter for the Executive.","answerHtml":"In June this year, the Executive agreed to consult on a draft Anti-Poverty Strategy which is both sustainable and deliverable and which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of unpaid carers.
Following the close of the Public Consultation on the draft Anti-Poverty Strategy on 19 September, my officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received. I will report the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues, and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy.
At this time there are no plans for additional payments for unpaid carers. Decisions around the provision of any additional payments, including the funding arrangements, is a matter for the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032720%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452796","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452796"}},{"id":"452607","reference":"AQW 32603/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the role her Department will have in the (i) registration; and (ii) oversight of Lasting Powers of Attorney, when implemented under the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.","answerText":"The 2016 Act provides for a Public Guardian, to be appointed and resourced by my Department. The Public Guardian’s functions will include establishing and maintaining a register of lasting powers of attorney, receiving reports from attorneys and dealing with complaints about the way in which powers are being exercised by attorneys. Under the legislation, oversight of lasting powers of attorney is ultimately a matter for the High Court.","answerHtml":"The 2016 Act provides for a Public Guardian, to be appointed and resourced by my Department. The Public Guardian’s functions will include establishing and maintaining a register of lasting powers of attorney, receiving reports from attorneys and dealing with complaints about the way in which powers are being exercised by attorneys. Under the legislation, oversight of lasting powers of attorney is ultimately a matter for the High Court.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032603%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452607"}},{"id":"452606","reference":"AQW 32602/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline how she is ensuring that the legal framework for Lasting Powers of Attorney in Northern Ireland, will provide the same protections and safeguards as in other UK jurisdictions.","answerText":"The legal framework for lasting powers of attorney in Northern Ireland is provided for in the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, although the relevant provisions have not yet been commenced. The protections and safeguards provided for in the 2016 Act are the same as those in the Mental Capacity Act 2005 for lasting powers of attorney in England and Wales, and are broadly similar to those under the corresponding legislation in Scotland. The commencement powers for the Act rest with the Department of Health and my officials will be working with colleagues in that Department on an implementation plan for the 2016 Act.","answerHtml":"The legal framework for lasting powers of attorney in Northern Ireland is provided for in the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, although the relevant provisions have not yet been commenced. The protections and safeguards provided for in the 2016 Act are the same as those in the Mental Capacity Act 2005 for lasting powers of attorney in England and Wales, and are broadly similar to those under the corresponding legislation in Scotland. The commencement powers for the Act rest with the Department of Health and my officials will be working with colleagues in that Department on an implementation plan for the 2016 Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032602%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452606","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452606"}},{"id":"452605","reference":"AQW 32601/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what engagement his Department has had with people living with dementia and their representative organisations regarding the implementation of lasting powers of attorney.","answerText":"My officials continue to engage on a regular basis with stakeholders to understand the impact that phased implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 has. The MCA contains provisions which fall under the remit of both my Department and the Department of Justice and as a result, officials have been working collaboratively to scope the implications of full implementation. This is with a view of developing a full implementation plan, to guide future decision making and inform me on the impact, implications and likely costings of commencing these provisions. Although work on this area had slowed due to significant resourcing challenges, the work will recommence early next year.\n\nWhilst no specific assessment has taken place by my Department, as part of this work my officials, alongside DoJ officials, met with Dementia NI colleagues in June 2025, where the discussion focused on provisions related to lasting powers of attorney.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to engage on a regular basis with stakeholders to understand the impact that phased implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 has. The MCA contains provisions which fall under the remit of both my Department and the Department of Justice and as a result, officials have been working collaboratively to scope the implications of full implementation. This is with a view of developing a full implementation plan, to guide future decision making and inform me on the impact, implications and likely costings of commencing these provisions. Although work on this area had slowed due to significant resourcing challenges, the work will recommence early next year.
Whilst no specific assessment has taken place by my Department, as part of this work my officials, alongside DoJ officials, met with Dementia NI colleagues in June 2025, where the discussion focused on provisions related to lasting powers of attorney.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032601%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452605","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452605"}},{"id":"452604","reference":"AQW 32600/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the implementation of lasting powers of attorney under the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, including the expected timetable for introducing health and welfare provisions.","answerText":"The Mental Capacity Act (NI) 2016 (MCA), a piece of legislation brought forward by the Department of Health and the Department of Justice (DoJ), provides a framework for people who lack capacity to make a decision for themselves and for those who now have capacity but wish to make preparations for a time in the future when they may lack capacity.\n\nThe MCA has been implemented in a phased approach, with provisions relating to deprivation of liberty, research and money and valuables commenced to date.\n\nFurther work is needed to understand the resourcing implications for full commencement and so there are currently no indicative timings for full commencement of the MCA. Any decision regarding provisions related to lasting powers of attorney would need to be considered in collaboration with DoJ.","answerHtml":"The Mental Capacity Act (NI) 2016 (MCA), a piece of legislation brought forward by the Department of Health and the Department of Justice (DoJ), provides a framework for people who lack capacity to make a decision for themselves and for those who now have capacity but wish to make preparations for a time in the future when they may lack capacity.
The MCA has been implemented in a phased approach, with provisions relating to deprivation of liberty, research and money and valuables commenced to date.
Further work is needed to understand the resourcing implications for full commencement and so there are currently no indicative timings for full commencement of the MCA. Any decision regarding provisions related to lasting powers of attorney would need to be considered in collaboration with DoJ.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032600%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452604","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452604"}},{"id":"452603","reference":"AQW 32599/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-17","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has assessed the impact on patients’ rights of the continued absence of health and welfare lasting powers of attorney, particularly for people living with dementia.","answerText":"My officials continue to engage on a regular basis with stakeholders to understand the impact that phased implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 has. The MCA contains provisions which fall under the remit of both my Department and the Department of Justice and as a result, officials have been working collaboratively to scope the implications of full implementation. This is with a view of developing a full implementation plan, to guide future decision making and inform me on the impact, implications and likely costings of commencing these provisions. Although work on this area had slowed due to significant resourcing challenges, the work will recommence early next year.\n\nWhilst no specific assessment has taken place by my Department, as part of this work my officials, alongside DoJ officials, met with Dementia NI colleagues in June 2025, where the discussion focused on provisions related to lasting powers of attorney.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to engage on a regular basis with stakeholders to understand the impact that phased implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 has. The MCA contains provisions which fall under the remit of both my Department and the Department of Justice and as a result, officials have been working collaboratively to scope the implications of full implementation. This is with a view of developing a full implementation plan, to guide future decision making and inform me on the impact, implications and likely costings of commencing these provisions. Although work on this area had slowed due to significant resourcing challenges, the work will recommence early next year.
Whilst no specific assessment has taken place by my Department, as part of this work my officials, alongside DoJ officials, met with Dementia NI colleagues in June 2025, where the discussion focused on provisions related to lasting powers of attorney.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032599%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452603","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452603"}},{"id":"452525","reference":"AQO 2506/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-02","answerBy":"2025-10-13","answered":"2025-10-13","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the internal policy and legislation that facilitates emotional support animals in Northern Ireland prisons.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long (The Minister of Justice)","text":"The provision of emotional support animals within Northern Ireland Prison Service establishments is an operational matter for the Prison Service. It is more than 20 years since the service introduced support dogs into the prison setting, and it is not aware of a single occasion when a dog has been placed at risk. Support dogs are highly valued and well-cared-for team members and have helped countless prisoners who have been in crisis. That is the same for all support animals within prisons. Every day, prison officers perform their roles with judgement, diligence and care. I have been disappointed and surprised that others think that those same officers are not up to the job of introducing an emotional support dog at Magilligan prison. If a policy is required to satisfy the ongoing interests of all animals within prisons, I am certain that Prison Service and its staff have the measure of that task. However, that work will be appropriately prioritised among the many other challenges that face the service at this time, not least the rising prison population and the increasingly complex needs of that population. Legislative matters relating to animals are not the responsibility of my Department."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister. We made a mistake in respect of the dog that has been in the news recently: that dog should not have been in the prison. Its placement did not fall within the policy and legislation, which, I believe, needs to be reviewed and updated. The Minister received correspondence, as recently as this morning, in which concerns relating to how we dealt with that particular animal continue to be raised. Will the Minister give a commitment that that will not happen again and that she will review what is happening operationally within the Northern Ireland Prison Service? I appreciate that it is not directly her responsibility, but it falls within her remit."},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"I disagree entirely with the picture that has been painted by the Member when she says that the way in which the situation was dealt with by the Prison Service, originally, was wrong. What is scandalous is the whipping up of false information, misinformation and disinformation in the public domain — in social media and the wider media. The truth is that, when the dog was inspected in place, it was found to be in excellent condition, happy, well adjusted and enjoying the work that it was doing. Sadly, because of the hysteria that was whipped up outside, a threat was received regarding Bailey, and he was removed from the prison for his own safety, because, let us be clear, the welfare and safety of the animals in our care are our primary concern in all these matters."},{"speaker":"Mr Burrows","text":"Does the Minister not have any concern that, after 20 years of putting dogs in prisons, there is no legislation; no definition of what an emotional support dog is; no pre-suitability assessment was done of that particular dog; and there is a made-up policy of putting a pet dog in prison without any safeguards? That was confirmed to me by the director general of prisons in Northern Ireland and the prison governor at Magilligan."},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"My greater concern is the amount of time that has been consumed by Prison Service staff in responding to an issue that was based on nothing but lies and smears. In fact, the Member himself had to admit in public that he had not even read the independent welfare report, despite tweeting consistently and persistently about the matter for, I think, over three weeks. If we want to be serious about our concern for animals, the first thing to do is to look at what the animal welfare experts said about Bailey. They said that he was a dog in excellent condition, well adjusted and well cared for. These are not working dogs in the traditional sense. The training that goes with them is for those prison officers who deploy them in certain circumstances. They are treated, for all intents and purposes, as a family pet would be treated. That is why we are able to do this. To say that there was no pre-assessment of suitability is, again, factually incorrect. There was one issue around whether the dog was well socialised with men, and that was dealt with before the dog was selected and brought to the prison. Those are further facts relating to further misinformation, and they show the further inability of some to accept a detailed and evidence-based response and to take it into account."},{"speaker":"Ms Hunter","text":"I am in solidarity with you, Minister, following the mob at your house, last week. We are all thinking of you. Following up on the previous questions, will the Minister confirm whether emotional support animals, particularly dogs, receive specific training before being placed in a prison? Do prison officers receive any kind of specific training regarding being assigned responsibility for caring for an animal?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"As I have just said, prison officers are trained in the deployment of emotional support dogs, which is pretty much like looking after any other dog in that environment. The dogs are not there for protection, for guarding or to work as sniffer dogs, where there is a particular skill engaged in training the dogs and a particular level of vigilance required of the dogs. The dogs are simply there to show companionship to prisoners. The dogs do not need specific training, but they need to have a particular temperament. They have to be good around people, and they have to be calm and assured. Bailey fitted all those categories. Sadly, now, his life has been disrupted due to a threat received from outside the prison. If anybody actually cared about dogs and their welfare, they would not want to see a happy, well-adjusted and well-cared-for dog taken out of its routine environment."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202506%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452525","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-10-13&docID=453674#AQO%202506/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452525"}},{"id":"452428","reference":"AQW 32494/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether her Department has considered enabling family courts to include pets in non-molestation and occupation orders, in cases involving domestic abuse.","answerText":"Under the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, a court must have regard to all the circumstances when deciding whether to exercise its discretionary power and make a Non-Molestation Order or Occupation Order.\n\nIn reaching that decision, the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 requires a court to take into account the impact of its decision on the health, safety and well-being of the parties and any children involved. That consideration can include issues raised by the applicant regarding their companion animals. Courts can therefore presently consider circumstances regarding pets in situations of domestic abuse and coercive control.","answerHtml":"Under the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, a court must have regard to all the circumstances when deciding whether to exercise its discretionary power and make a Non-Molestation Order or Occupation Order.
In reaching that decision, the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998 requires a court to take into account the impact of its decision on the health, safety and well-being of the parties and any children involved. That consideration can include issues raised by the applicant regarding their companion animals. Courts can therefore presently consider circumstances regarding pets in situations of domestic abuse and coercive control.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032494%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452428","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452428"}},{"id":"452427","reference":"AQW 32493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether any guidance issued to family courts in Northern Ireland, recognises the use of harm or threats to pets as a form of coercive control.","answerText":"The principle of judicial independence means that the issue of guidance to family courts is a matter for the Lady Chief Justice.\n\nI am not aware of any judicial guidance that expressly references the use of harm or threats to pets as a form of coercive control; however, the Lady Chief Justice issued guidance in June 2025 to set out the approach of the court in an application for a residence or contact order (under the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995) where it is alleged that a party, or the child, has experienced domestic abuse perpetrated by another party. The definition of “domestic abuse” for the purpose of the guidance includes behaviour falling within the meaning of section 2 of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 when read with section 4 of that Act, and section 4(3) of the 2021 Act refers to behaviour that is directed at a “person” through “conduct concerning or towards property” which includes pets or other animals, whether belonging to the victim or others.","answerHtml":"The principle of judicial independence means that the issue of guidance to family courts is a matter for the Lady Chief Justice.
I am not aware of any judicial guidance that expressly references the use of harm or threats to pets as a form of coercive control; however, the Lady Chief Justice issued guidance in June 2025 to set out the approach of the court in an application for a residence or contact order (under the Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995) where it is alleged that a party, or the child, has experienced domestic abuse perpetrated by another party. The definition of “domestic abuse” for the purpose of the guidance includes behaviour falling within the meaning of section 2 of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 when read with section 4 of that Act, and section 4(3) of the 2021 Act refers to behaviour that is directed at a “person” through “conduct concerning or towards property” which includes pets or other animals, whether belonging to the victim or others.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452427"}},{"id":"452426","reference":"AQW 32492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department has engaged with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on how the treatment of animals in domestic abuse cases could be better reflected in family court proceedings.","answerText":"While I recognise that domestic abuse can involve mistreatment of animals, policy responsibility for the substantive law applied by courts in private family law cases sits with the Department of Finance. This includes the legislation (the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998) under which courts can make non-molestation and occupation orders. It would, therefore, be for that Department to engage with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs regarding how the legislative framework could be enhanced in relation to family cases which raise concerns about animal welfare.","answerHtml":"While I recognise that domestic abuse can involve mistreatment of animals, policy responsibility for the substantive law applied by courts in private family law cases sits with the Department of Finance. This includes the legislation (the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998) under which courts can make non-molestation and occupation orders. It would, therefore, be for that Department to engage with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs regarding how the legislative framework could be enhanced in relation to family cases which raise concerns about animal welfare.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452426","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452426"}},{"id":"452425","reference":"AQW 32491/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department will consider consulting on the role of pets in domestic abuse and the barriers this presents for victims accessing family court protections.","answerText":"While I recognise that pets can be used to perpetrate domestic abuse, policy responsibility for the substantive law applied by courts in private family law cases sits with the Department of Finance. This includes the legislation (the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998) under which courts can make non-molestation orders and occupation orders. It would, therefore, be for the Department of Finance to consult on whether the legislative framework could be enhanced for victims where the behaviour in respect of which protection is needed involves pets.","answerHtml":"While I recognise that pets can be used to perpetrate domestic abuse, policy responsibility for the substantive law applied by courts in private family law cases sits with the Department of Finance. This includes the legislation (the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (Northern Ireland) Order 1998) under which courts can make non-molestation orders and occupation orders. It would, therefore, be for the Department of Finance to consult on whether the legislative framework could be enhanced for victims where the behaviour in respect of which protection is needed involves pets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032491%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452425","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452425"}},{"id":"452424","reference":"AQW 32490/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-10-01","answerBy":"2025-10-16","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline any consideration her Department has given to recognising harm or threats to pets as a form of coercive control in domestic abuse cases.","answerText":"I acknowledge the very real and distressing impact that harm, or the threat of harm, to pets can have on victims of domestic abuse. For many people, pets or other animals, are a deeply loved part of the family, and perpetrators who use them as a means of intimidation, coercion, or control can cause significant emotional trauma.\n\nSection 1 the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 provides for the offence of domestic abuse against an individual, their child or any other person which is intended to cause a person “to suffer physical or psychological harm,” with “psychological harm” including fear, alarm and distress”. Section 4(3) expressly refers to behaviour that is directed at a “person” through “conduct concerning or towards property” which includes pets or other animals (for example agricultural livestock) whether belonging to the victim or others.\n\nMy Department continues to engage with stakeholders such as animal welfare charities, and victim support services to strengthen recognition of this issue and to ensure victims know that such abuse is taken seriously. I recently met with the Links Group and remain in contact with them to explore options for further collaborative working.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the very real and distressing impact that harm, or the threat of harm, to pets can have on victims of domestic abuse. For many people, pets or other animals, are a deeply loved part of the family, and perpetrators who use them as a means of intimidation, coercion, or control can cause significant emotional trauma.
Section 1 the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 provides for the offence of domestic abuse against an individual, their child or any other person which is intended to cause a person “to suffer physical or psychological harm,” with “psychological harm” including fear, alarm and distress”. Section 4(3) expressly refers to behaviour that is directed at a “person” through “conduct concerning or towards property” which includes pets or other animals (for example agricultural livestock) whether belonging to the victim or others.
My Department continues to engage with stakeholders such as animal welfare charities, and victim support services to strengthen recognition of this issue and to ensure victims know that such abuse is taken seriously. I recently met with the Links Group and remain in contact with them to explore options for further collaborative working.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032490%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452424"}},{"id":"452212","reference":"AQW 32371/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-30","answerBy":"2025-10-03","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current waiting times for red flag breast referrals; and (ii) what action he is taking to increase capacity within breast clinics to reduce waiting lists.","answerText":"(i) The most recent official statistics for red flag breast cancer referrals were published on 2 October 2025 referring to the quarter end of June 2025. Figures for median waiting times for red flag breast cancer referrals are given in Table 1 which follows.\n\nTable 1. Median waiting times for red flag breast cancer referrals\n\nat quarter end June 2025.\n\nRegional breast cancer service 1, 2\tNumber of patients 3\tMedian wait time (days) 3, 4, 5\tMedian wait time (weeks) 3, 4, 5\nBelfast, Northern and South Eastern Trusts\t1,947\t38\t5.4\n\nSource: Department of Health Hospital Waits Information Branch, Cancer Waiting Times Dataset.\n\nNotes:\n\n1 A new regional breast cancer service was launched on 8 May 2025 and breakdowns by Trust are no longer applicable. Data for quarter ending June 2025 include the transition period from a Trust to a regional service.\n\n2 Given the relatively recent transition of Southern and Western Trusts to encompass on 8 May 2025, validated breast cancer referrals data for these Trusts were not available for inclusion at the time of publication.\n\n3 Data sourced from the encompass system.\n\n4 The figures above refer to waiting times for red flag breast cancer referrals during the reporting period. They do not indicate expected future waiting times.\n\n5 To avoid distortion due to long waits, the Department reports on the median (the ‘middle’ waiting time) instead of mean waiting time.\n\nDue to essential data validation processes, there is a reporting delay. Therefore, data beyond June 2025 is unavailable. The next Cancer Waiting Time Statistics bulletin, covering the period from 1 July to 30 September 2025, is scheduled for publication on 15 January 2026.\n\n(ii) My Department recognises that the current regional waiting time for red flag breast assessment across the region is unacceptable. My Department is working closely with Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to increase capacity through the delivery of additional clinics. In response to the immediate pressures, my Department is working closely with Trusts to implement regional waiting list clinics over the next few months; evenings and Saturday sessions have been confirmed for all Trusts for October. Trusts have also been instructed to prioritise red flag referrals within existing core capacity to ensure timely access for the most clinically urgent cases. The Independent Sector will also be used to supplement short-term capacity.\n\nAs part of the Elective Care Framework (ECF), targeted investment has been identified to enhance breast service provision across the region. In collaboration with HSC Trusts, we are actively progressing a range of solutions including drawing on best practice from other jurisdictions, exploring innovative workforce skill mix models, and redesigning care pathways, all aimed at improving service efficiency and delivering better outcomes for patients.\n\nMy Department continues to monitor the situation closely and remains committed to improving access to timely and appropriate care.","answerHtml":"(i) The most recent official statistics for red flag breast cancer referrals were published on 2 October 2025 referring to the quarter end of June 2025. Figures for median waiting times for red flag breast cancer referrals are given in Table 1 which follows.
Table 1. Median waiting times for red flag breast cancer referrals
at quarter end June 2025.
| Regional breast cancer service 1, 2 | Number of patients 3 | Median wait time (days) 3, 4, 5 | Median wait time (weeks) 3, 4, 5 |
| Belfast, Northern and South Eastern Trusts | 1,947 | 38 | 5.4 |
Source: Department of Health Hospital Waits Information Branch, Cancer Waiting Times Dataset.
Notes:
1 A new regional breast cancer service was launched on 8 May 2025 and breakdowns by Trust are no longer applicable. Data for quarter ending June 2025 include the transition period from a Trust to a regional service.
2 Given the relatively recent transition of Southern and Western Trusts to encompass on 8 May 2025, validated breast cancer referrals data for these Trusts were not available for inclusion at the time of publication.
3 Data sourced from the encompass system.
4 The figures above refer to waiting times for red flag breast cancer referrals during the reporting period. They do not indicate expected future waiting times.
5 To avoid distortion due to long waits, the Department reports on the median (the ‘middle’ waiting time) instead of mean waiting time.
Due to essential data validation processes, there is a reporting delay. Therefore, data beyond June 2025 is unavailable. The next Cancer Waiting Time Statistics bulletin, covering the period from 1 July to 30 September 2025, is scheduled for publication on 15 January 2026.
(ii) My Department recognises that the current regional waiting time for red flag breast assessment across the region is unacceptable. My Department is working closely with Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts to increase capacity through the delivery of additional clinics. In response to the immediate pressures, my Department is working closely with Trusts to implement regional waiting list clinics over the next few months; evenings and Saturday sessions have been confirmed for all Trusts for October. Trusts have also been instructed to prioritise red flag referrals within existing core capacity to ensure timely access for the most clinically urgent cases. The Independent Sector will also be used to supplement short-term capacity.
As part of the Elective Care Framework (ECF), targeted investment has been identified to enhance breast service provision across the region. In collaboration with HSC Trusts, we are actively progressing a range of solutions including drawing on best practice from other jurisdictions, exploring innovative workforce skill mix models, and redesigning care pathways, all aimed at improving service efficiency and delivering better outcomes for patients.
My Department continues to monitor the situation closely and remains committed to improving access to timely and appropriate care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032371%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452212","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452212"}},{"id":"452211","reference":"AQW 32370/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-30","answerBy":"2025-10-15","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline any long-term strategy he is developing to ensure sustainable special educational needs transport provision.","answerText":"I recognise that there is a need for improvement in transport provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN). In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of children with statements of SEN who need specialist school placements. Consequently, the number of pupils requiring bespoke transport arrangements has increased which has placed additional pressure on the school transport network and led to higher associated costs. Currently, the EA provides transport assistance to over 13,000 pupils with additional SEN transport requirements.\n\nHome to school transport can only be arranged once a school placement has been confirmed. Ongoing work within my Department to improve the statementing and annual review processes is anticipated to support earlier confirmation of school placements. This will enable the EA to plan and coordinate its SEN transport services with greater efficiency, contributing significantly to overall sustainability.\n\nThe distance that children travel to school is also a key factor in the sustainability of school transport provision. I am committed to enabling children with SEN to attend school as close to home as possible, however, this is dependent on placements being available locally. My Department and the EA have a shared vision that, in time, every school in Northern Ireland will be able to offer specialist provisions, allowing all children to attend school close to home.\n\nIn addition, I have allocated funding to the EA to support the expansion of a pilot project introducing smaller, 7-seater vehicles to its fleet to enhance flexibility in the provision of SEN transport. The findings from this pilot will inform future considerations on the delivery of SEN transport services. Furthermore, I have instructed my officials to collaborate closely with the EA in developing proposals aimed at ensuring a sustainable approach to SEN transport delivery, thereby ensuring that home to school transport can continue to be provided for pupils who need it to enable them to attend school.","answerHtml":"I recognise that there is a need for improvement in transport provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN). In recent years, there has been a significant rise in the number of children with statements of SEN who need specialist school placements. Consequently, the number of pupils requiring bespoke transport arrangements has increased which has placed additional pressure on the school transport network and led to higher associated costs. Currently, the EA provides transport assistance to over 13,000 pupils with additional SEN transport requirements.
Home to school transport can only be arranged once a school placement has been confirmed. Ongoing work within my Department to improve the statementing and annual review processes is anticipated to support earlier confirmation of school placements. This will enable the EA to plan and coordinate its SEN transport services with greater efficiency, contributing significantly to overall sustainability.
The distance that children travel to school is also a key factor in the sustainability of school transport provision. I am committed to enabling children with SEN to attend school as close to home as possible, however, this is dependent on placements being available locally. My Department and the EA have a shared vision that, in time, every school in Northern Ireland will be able to offer specialist provisions, allowing all children to attend school close to home.
In addition, I have allocated funding to the EA to support the expansion of a pilot project introducing smaller, 7-seater vehicles to its fleet to enhance flexibility in the provision of SEN transport. The findings from this pilot will inform future considerations on the delivery of SEN transport services. Furthermore, I have instructed my officials to collaborate closely with the EA in developing proposals aimed at ensuring a sustainable approach to SEN transport delivery, thereby ensuring that home to school transport can continue to be provided for pupils who need it to enable them to attend school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032370%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452211"}},{"id":"452210","reference":"AQW 32369/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-30","answerBy":"2025-10-15","answered":"2025-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of applications for special educational needs transport drivers and escorts processed, in each of the past three years; and (ii) the average time taken to complete compliance and Access NI checks for these positions.","answerText":"(i) The Education Authority (EA) has advised that all drivers and escorts providing home to school transport services for the EA are required to undertake an enhanced Access NI check. The EA is unable to differentiate those working solely with children who have special educational needs; however, it has provided information below on the total number of Access NI applications processed:\n\nNumber of Access NI applications processed in respect of drivers and escorts providing home to school transport on behalf of the EA\n2022\t2023\t2024\t2025\n(Jan to Sept)\nEmployer\tDriver\tEscort\tDriver\tEscort\tDriver\tEscort\tDriver\tEscort\nEA\t69\t36\t79\t41\t100\t54\t111\t68\nPrivate Operators\t1,612\t487\t1,733\t571\t2,064\t856\t1,695\t743\nTotal\t1,681\t523\t1,812\t612\t2,164\t910\t1,806\t811\n2,204\t2,424\t3,074\t2,617\n\n(ii) The EA has provided information below on the average time taken to process Access NI Enhanced Disclosure Checks:\n\nAverage time taken to process Access NI Enhanced Disclosure Checks\nEA\tPrivate Operators\nDrivers\t6.5 days\t4.5 days\nEscorts\t6 days\t5.5 days","answerHtml":"(i) The Education Authority (EA) has advised that all drivers and escorts providing home to school transport services for the EA are required to undertake an enhanced Access NI check. The EA is unable to differentiate those working solely with children who have special educational needs; however, it has provided information below on the total number of Access NI applications processed:
| Number of Access NI applications processed in respect of drivers and escorts providing home to school transport on behalf of the EA | ||||||||
| 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 (Jan to Sept) | |||||
| Employer | Driver | Escort | Driver | Escort | Driver | Escort | Driver | Escort |
| EA | 69 | 36 | 79 | 41 | 100 | 54 | 111 | 68 |
| Private Operators | 1,612 | 487 | 1,733 | 571 | 2,064 | 856 | 1,695 | 743 |
| Total | 1,681 | 523 | 1,812 | 612 | 2,164 | 910 | 1,806 | 811 |
| 2,204 | 2,424 | 3,074 | 2,617 |
(ii) The EA has provided information below on the average time taken to process Access NI Enhanced Disclosure Checks:
| Average time taken to process Access NI Enhanced Disclosure Checks | ||
| EA | Private Operators | |
| Drivers | 6.5 days | 4.5 days |
| Escorts | 6 days | 5.5 days |
The Education Authority does not hold information detailing the number of school days missed by children with Special Educational Needs due to lack of transport provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032368%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452209"}},{"id":"452208","reference":"AQW 32367/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-30","answerBy":"2025-10-15","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of contracts for special educational needs transport not secured, in each of the past three years; and (ii) the reasons identified for this.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the operation and delivery of home to school transport and it has advised me that it does not hold the requested information for the 2023/24 academic year.\n\nIn the 2024/25 academic year, the EA was unable to secure contracts for 21 routes to provide private hire transport for children with Special Educational Needs. These routes were tendered on two occasions, but the EA received no bids and alternative transport assistance was put in place. To date in the 2025/26 academic year, the EA has successfully secured contracts for all routes and transport arrangements have been put in place.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the operation and delivery of home to school transport and it has advised me that it does not hold the requested information for the 2023/24 academic year.
In the 2024/25 academic year, the EA was unable to secure contracts for 21 routes to provide private hire transport for children with Special Educational Needs. These routes were tendered on two occasions, but the EA received no bids and alternative transport assistance was put in place. To date in the 2025/26 academic year, the EA has successfully secured contracts for all routes and transport arrangements have been put in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032367%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=452208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=452208"}},{"id":"451844","reference":"AQW 32250/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-29","answerBy":"2025-10-14","answered":"2025-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the engagement her Department has had with the (i) Department for the Economy; and (ii) Department for Communities, in the last three years, regarding how the unreliability of rural transport affects disabled people in accessing and sustaining employment.","answerText":"My Department supports the provision of transport services across the region via public transport services provided by Translink as well as through the Dial-a-Lift and the Disability Action Transport schemes.\n\nThe grant funded Dial-a-Lift scheme can assist people, including those with a disability access employment, but it is a member only service which operates in defined geographical areas and due to the nature of the service (demand led with limited resources available) it may not always be possible to meet everyone's needs.\n\nThere has been no specific engagement with either the Department for the Economy or the Department for Communities, regarding how the unreliability of rural transport affects disabled people in accessing and sustaining employment.","answerHtml":"My Department supports the provision of transport services across the region via public transport services provided by Translink as well as through the Dial-a-Lift and the Disability Action Transport schemes.
The grant funded Dial-a-Lift scheme can assist people, including those with a disability access employment, but it is a member only service which operates in defined geographical areas and due to the nature of the service (demand led with limited resources available) it may not always be possible to meet everyone's needs.
There has been no specific engagement with either the Department for the Economy or the Department for Communities, regarding how the unreliability of rural transport affects disabled people in accessing and sustaining employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032250%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451844","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451844"}},{"id":"451843","reference":"AQW 32249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-29","answerBy":"2025-10-14","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure the outline (i) the data her Department holds on unmet transport need in East Londonderry; and (ii) how this informs investment decisions.","answerText":"My department, through the application process for the Dial-a-Lift service, receive information from the Rural Community Transport Partnerships, which provides data on the level of demand they expect to fulfil in terms of this transport service. This includes information from the North Coast Community Transport partnership that primarily covers East Londonderry.\n\nIn addition, East Londonderry is covered by two Local Transport Plans: The Northwest Transport Plan and the Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan. These transport plans are being developed in an integrated manner with each of the council’s Local Development Plans. For this reason, these plans are at very different stages in their development.\n\nMy department is currently progressing Stage 1 of the Northwest Transport Plan (NWTP), which will guide future transport investment across the Northwest region. The Plan will identify proposals to address local transport issues, including local bus services, active travel, local road network and parking. It will provide most local detail in Derry and Strabane and this will be for the plan period up to 2035. A Baseline Report has been initially prepared to support the development of the NWTP. However, the Plans work is not sufficiently advanced at this stage to provide commentary on proposed transport measures. The Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan is currently at the mobilisation phase and is not yet sufficiently advanced at this time.","answerHtml":"My department, through the application process for the Dial-a-Lift service, receive information from the Rural Community Transport Partnerships, which provides data on the level of demand they expect to fulfil in terms of this transport service. This includes information from the North Coast Community Transport partnership that primarily covers East Londonderry.
In addition, East Londonderry is covered by two Local Transport Plans: The Northwest Transport Plan and the Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan. These transport plans are being developed in an integrated manner with each of the council’s Local Development Plans. For this reason, these plans are at very different stages in their development.
My department is currently progressing Stage 1 of the Northwest Transport Plan (NWTP), which will guide future transport investment across the Northwest region. The Plan will identify proposals to address local transport issues, including local bus services, active travel, local road network and parking. It will provide most local detail in Derry and Strabane and this will be for the plan period up to 2035. A Baseline Report has been initially prepared to support the development of the NWTP. However, the Plans work is not sufficiently advanced at this stage to provide commentary on proposed transport measures. The Causeway Coast and Glens Transport Plan is currently at the mobilisation phase and is not yet sufficiently advanced at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451843"}},{"id":"451842","reference":"AQW 32248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-29","answerBy":"2025-10-14","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any steps she is taking to ensure the long-term sustainability of community transport services in East Londonderry.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of community transport in improving the lives of individuals within our communities who experience social isolation because they are unable to access suitable transport. Community transport provides access to local goods and services, maintains connections to friends and families and offers independence to those with few travel options.\n\nMy Department has funded community transport services in excess of 20 years and I have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes in all areas including East Derry. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services.\n\nI hope to move to multiyear budgets which would provide certainty around future budgets to community transport providers, assisting them in planning future investment in services and activities\n\nTranslink has an ongoing partnership with the local community transport provider, North Coast Community Transport. This partnership provides users of community transport services with access to Coleraine bus and rail station for onward journey options, thereby providing opportunities for connections between community transport and the mainstream public transport network. This model of interchange between modes maximises the efficiency of the combined resources, enabling community transport to provide demand responsive solutions from rural locations and connections to the main public transport network for onward journeys.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of community transport in improving the lives of individuals within our communities who experience social isolation because they are unable to access suitable transport. Community transport provides access to local goods and services, maintains connections to friends and families and offers independence to those with few travel options.
My Department has funded community transport services in excess of 20 years and I have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes in all areas including East Derry. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services.
I hope to move to multiyear budgets which would provide certainty around future budgets to community transport providers, assisting them in planning future investment in services and activities
Translink has an ongoing partnership with the local community transport provider, North Coast Community Transport. This partnership provides users of community transport services with access to Coleraine bus and rail station for onward journey options, thereby providing opportunities for connections between community transport and the mainstream public transport network. This model of interchange between modes maximises the efficiency of the combined resources, enabling community transport to provide demand responsive solutions from rural locations and connections to the main public transport network for onward journeys.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032248%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451842"}},{"id":"451841","reference":"AQW 32247/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-29","answerBy":"2025-10-14","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department will review funding arrangements for community transport to ensure providers can meet growing demand in rural areas.","answerText":"I have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes across all areas in the north. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services.","answerHtml":"I have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes across all areas in the north. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451841"}},{"id":"451840","reference":"AQW 32246/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-29","answerBy":"2025-10-14","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the steps her Department is taking to improve rural transport connectivity in East Londonderry.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of both community and public transport in improving the lives of vulnerable groups within our communities. It provides access to local goods and services, maintains connections to friends and families and offers independence to those with few travel options.\n\nI have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes in all areas including East Derry. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services. It should provide additional connectivity in the form of more local journeys within that area.\n\nWhile Translink are responsible for the operational delivery of public transport services they provide under the Public Service Agreement, they have advised the network is designed to enhance connectivity throughout the area. The Translink website and Journey planner app would be the best resource for viewing the extensive available services in the area.\n\nThe draft Transport Strategy 2035 is currently out for its public consultation. I recognise that the transport needs in rural areas are very different to those in urban areas and in remote areas it can be challenging to provide the same frequency of services along direct routes to make public transport a realistic alternative to private vehicles. These areas of the draft strategy are very important, and I look forward to receiving people’s views on this issue as part of the public consultation.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of both community and public transport in improving the lives of vulnerable groups within our communities. It provides access to local goods and services, maintains connections to friends and families and offers independence to those with few travel options.
I have allocated an additional 26% in 2025/26 to support the rural Dial-a-Lift and urban Disability Action Transport schemes in all areas including East Derry. The level of funding was commensurate with the level of funding requested by those providing these services. It should provide additional connectivity in the form of more local journeys within that area.
While Translink are responsible for the operational delivery of public transport services they provide under the Public Service Agreement, they have advised the network is designed to enhance connectivity throughout the area. The Translink website and Journey planner app would be the best resource for viewing the extensive available services in the area.
The draft Transport Strategy 2035 is currently out for its public consultation. I recognise that the transport needs in rural areas are very different to those in urban areas and in remote areas it can be challenging to provide the same frequency of services along direct routes to make public transport a realistic alternative to private vehicles. These areas of the draft strategy are very important, and I look forward to receiving people’s views on this issue as part of the public consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032246%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451840"}},{"id":"451580","reference":"AQW 32164/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-26","answerBy":"2025-10-13","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail whether the Education Authority has secured a permanent site for Causeway Academy, and what the projected timeline is for completion.","answerText":"Causeway Academy will open in September 2026 across three existing sites. The Education Authority is currently working with the Principal Designate on the configuration of the three sites.\n\nWhilst a new school formed and operating on a split site following an amalgamation would be well placed to receive funding for a new build in a future major capital call, there can be no guarantees that this would be the case. Given the constrained capital budget position, I cannot confirm when I will be in a position to make a new call for major works projects.\n\nI will continue to make the case for increased and sustained investment in education.","answerHtml":"Causeway Academy will open in September 2026 across three existing sites. The Education Authority is currently working with the Principal Designate on the configuration of the three sites.
Whilst a new school formed and operating on a split site following an amalgamation would be well placed to receive funding for a new build in a future major capital call, there can be no guarantees that this would be the case. Given the constrained capital budget position, I cannot confirm when I will be in a position to make a new call for major works projects.
I will continue to make the case for increased and sustained investment in education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032164%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451580"}},{"id":"451579","reference":"AQW 32163/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-26","answerBy":"2025-10-13","answered":"2025-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the Education Authority has decided how pupils will be allocated across the three sites of Causeway Academy from September 2026, and whether this will be determined by year group.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA), Project Board, the Interim Board of Governors and the Principal Designate are currently finalising the plans for Causeway Academy to open across the three existing school sites from September 2026. As soon as the operating arrangements are finalised, they will be immediately communicated to all stakeholders.\n\nThe Principal Designate has been working with the Interim Board of Governors, the Principals of the three schools and the EA to ensure that everything is in place for pupils and staff in relation to curriculum, transition planning and branding of the new school.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA), Project Board, the Interim Board of Governors and the Principal Designate are currently finalising the plans for Causeway Academy to open across the three existing school sites from September 2026. As soon as the operating arrangements are finalised, they will be immediately communicated to all stakeholders.
The Principal Designate has been working with the Interim Board of Governors, the Principals of the three schools and the EA to ensure that everything is in place for pupils and staff in relation to curriculum, transition planning and branding of the new school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032163%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451579"}},{"id":"451578","reference":"AQW 32162/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-26","answerBy":"2025-10-13","answered":"2025-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any discussions he, or his Department has had with the Department for Work and Pensions regarding the Third State Pension age review; and (ii) how he intends to ensure that the implications for people due to retire between April 2026 and April 2028 are taken into account.","answerText":"I have been assured by the Minister for Pensions in the Department for Work and Pensions, Torsten Bell MP, that the differences between the countries and regions of the UK, including Northern Ireland, will be considered during the State Pension age review. I have asked my officials to collaborate with their counterparts at the Department for Work and Pensions throughout this process to provide any relevant Northern Ireland data requested.\n\nOn 15 September, I, along with officials from my Department, met with Dr Suzy Morrissey, who was appointed by the UK Government to prepare an Independent Report to examine factors the Government should consider in determining the State Pension age. Other key stakeholders in attendance on the day were representatives from Advice NI and Age NI, as well as the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.\n\nThe scope of the third State Pension age review, and the resulting Independent Report, is to consider the key factors the UK Government should take into account in determining State Pension age for future decades, balancing consideration of fairness and sustainability.\n\nThe current timetable for Northern Ireland and Great Britain, as per the Pensions Act 2014, is that State Pension age will be raised to age 67 for everyone from 6 April 2028. This is to be increased gradually between 6 April 2026 and 5 April 2028, with people who reach State Pension age during this transition phase having been previously notified by letter.\n\nIndividuals who reach State Pension age during this transition phase will be unaffected by this latest review. The final report is not due until March 2029, and State Pension age during the period in question has already been legislated for.\n\nFurther details on the scope and terms of the Independent Report, part of the third review of State Pension age, can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/third-review-of-state-pension-age-independent-report-terms-of-reference","answerHtml":"I have been assured by the Minister for Pensions in the Department for Work and Pensions, Torsten Bell MP, that the differences between the countries and regions of the UK, including Northern Ireland, will be considered during the State Pension age review. I have asked my officials to collaborate with their counterparts at the Department for Work and Pensions throughout this process to provide any relevant Northern Ireland data requested.
On 15 September, I, along with officials from my Department, met with Dr Suzy Morrissey, who was appointed by the UK Government to prepare an Independent Report to examine factors the Government should consider in determining the State Pension age. Other key stakeholders in attendance on the day were representatives from Advice NI and Age NI, as well as the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.
The scope of the third State Pension age review, and the resulting Independent Report, is to consider the key factors the UK Government should take into account in determining State Pension age for future decades, balancing consideration of fairness and sustainability.
The current timetable for Northern Ireland and Great Britain, as per the Pensions Act 2014, is that State Pension age will be raised to age 67 for everyone from 6 April 2028. This is to be increased gradually between 6 April 2026 and 5 April 2028, with people who reach State Pension age during this transition phase having been previously notified by letter.
Individuals who reach State Pension age during this transition phase will be unaffected by this latest review. The final report is not due until March 2029, and State Pension age during the period in question has already been legislated for.
Further details on the scope and terms of the Independent Report, part of the third review of State Pension age, can be found at:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/third-review-of-state-pension-age-independent-report-terms-of-reference
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032162%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451578"}},{"id":"451577","reference":"AQW 32161/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-26","answerBy":"2025-10-13","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how parents will be kept informed of site allocations for their children ahead of the opening of Causeway Academy in September 2026.","answerText":"The Education Authority has advised that it is working with the Principal Designate of Causeway Academy on the configuration of sites for opening the new school on 1 September 2026. When this has been confirmed, the Principal Designate will issue relevant communications, by newsletter and social media, to relevant stakeholders.\n\nA Communications Plan is also in place to provide updates to current and prospective pupils, parents, staff, governors and the wider school community at key times.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has advised that it is working with the Principal Designate of Causeway Academy on the configuration of sites for opening the new school on 1 September 2026. When this has been confirmed, the Principal Designate will issue relevant communications, by newsletter and social media, to relevant stakeholders.
A Communications Plan is also in place to provide updates to current and prospective pupils, parents, staff, governors and the wider school community at key times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032161%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451577"}},{"id":"451576","reference":"AQW 32160/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-26","answerBy":"2025-10-13","answered":"2025-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will consider permitting Health and Social Care Trusts to pay the Northern Ireland-equivalent cost of treatment directly under the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme, so that patients only need to cover any additional charges.","answerText":"The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme based on the previous RoI Reimbursement Scheme and EU Cross Border Healthcare Directive.\n\nIn choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system entirely. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health, under this scheme, will not be formally commissioning services from private providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided. The HSC Trusts are not involved with this process and on that basis this is not something my Department will be considering.","answerHtml":"The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme based on the previous RoI Reimbursement Scheme and EU Cross Border Healthcare Directive.
In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system entirely. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health, under this scheme, will not be formally commissioning services from private providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided. The HSC Trusts are not involved with this process and on that basis this is not something my Department will be considering.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032160%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451576"}},{"id":"451358","reference":"AQW 32074/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-10","answered":"2025-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of red flag gynaecological oncology appointments that have been cancelled in the last 12 months; and (ii) the reasons for the cancellations.","answerText":"There is currently no centralised system for the regional collation of data on gynaecological oncology appointment cancellations. The information held by individual Trusts is variable and recorded across different systems this is in part due to the phased implementation of the Encompass electronic patient record system over the past two years. As a result, the data cannot be easily collated or used to produce a consistent, accurate regional figure.\n\nLooking ahead, the Encompass system will be further explored to assess how cancellation data can be more effectively coded, collated, and analysed to support future regional reporting and service improvement.\n\nWhile all Trusts diagnose gynaecological cancers, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) provides the specialist regional Gynae- oncology service. All Trusts transfer patients requiring specialist gynecologically surgery to this service.\n\nTable 1 below shows the number of red-flag cancellations over the last 12 months for the Belfast Service (local and regional) and the reasons for these cancellations.\n\n828 cancellations were made of which 527 were cancelled by the service and 297 were cancelled by patients.\n\nTable 1 – No. of Gynae oncology cancellations and reasons for these cancellations in the last 12 months: BHSCT local and regional gynae-oncology service.\n\nNo of Cancellations\tReason for cancellation\tCancellation Initiator\n52\tClinician not available\tservice\n14\tClinician medical reason\tservice\n2\tClinician Patient Unit\tservice\n1\tAdded to Inpatient / Day Case W. List\tservice\n39\tAdmin Error\tservice\n2\tAmbulance unavailable / Not booked\tservice\n1\tAwaiting further investigations\tservice\n91\tClinic Cancelled / Reduced\tservice\n38\tClinic Reorganisation\tservice\n3\tCurrently admitted\tservice\n15\tIndustrial Action\tservice\n1\tInsufficient notice\tservice\n40\tNo longer required\tservice\n143\tOther\tservice\n5\tPatient Discharged from Trust\tservice\n1\tPatient seen separately for same condition\tservice\n28\tAppoint rescheduled (Put back)\tservice\n55\tAppoint Rescheduled (Brought Forward)\tservice\n6\tRefusal of Reasonable Offer\tPatient\n162\tDate unsuitable\tPatient\n1\tLack of Transportation\tPatient\n17\tNot now required\tPatient\n84\tOther\tPatient\n27\tUnwell\tPatient\nTotal – 828\n\nIt should be noted that cancelled appointments cannot be directly correlated to reduced activity. BHSCT appointment teams will maximise all capacity and ensure even last-minute cancellations are filled.\n\nThe BHSCT is proactively managing the reduction of outpatient cancellations and the percentage of patients who ‘do not attend’ to focus on maximising productivity within outpatients.","answerHtml":"There is currently no centralised system for the regional collation of data on gynaecological oncology appointment cancellations. The information held by individual Trusts is variable and recorded across different systems this is in part due to the phased implementation of the Encompass electronic patient record system over the past two years. As a result, the data cannot be easily collated or used to produce a consistent, accurate regional figure.
Looking ahead, the Encompass system will be further explored to assess how cancellation data can be more effectively coded, collated, and analysed to support future regional reporting and service improvement.
While all Trusts diagnose gynaecological cancers, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) provides the specialist regional Gynae- oncology service. All Trusts transfer patients requiring specialist gynecologically surgery to this service.
Table 1 below shows the number of red-flag cancellations over the last 12 months for the Belfast Service (local and regional) and the reasons for these cancellations.
828 cancellations were made of which 527 were cancelled by the service and 297 were cancelled by patients.
Table 1 – No. of Gynae oncology cancellations and reasons for these cancellations in the last 12 months: BHSCT local and regional gynae-oncology service.
| No of Cancellations | Reason for cancellation | Cancellation Initiator |
| 52 | Clinician not available | service |
| 14 | Clinician medical reason | service |
| 2 | Clinician Patient Unit | service |
| 1 | Added to Inpatient / Day Case W. List | service |
| 39 | Admin Error | service |
| 2 | Ambulance unavailable / Not booked | service |
| 1 | Awaiting further investigations | service |
| 91 | Clinic Cancelled / Reduced | service |
| 38 | Clinic Reorganisation | service |
| 3 | Currently admitted | service |
| 15 | Industrial Action | service |
| 1 | Insufficient notice | service |
| 40 | No longer required | service |
| 143 | Other | service |
| 5 | Patient Discharged from Trust | service |
| 1 | Patient seen separately for same condition | service |
| 28 | Appoint rescheduled (Put back) | service |
| 55 | Appoint Rescheduled (Brought Forward) | service |
| 6 | Refusal of Reasonable Offer | Patient |
| 162 | Date unsuitable | Patient |
| 1 | Lack of Transportation | Patient |
| 17 | Not now required | Patient |
| 84 | Other | Patient |
| 27 | Unwell | Patient |
| Total – 828 |
It should be noted that cancelled appointments cannot be directly correlated to reduced activity. BHSCT appointment teams will maximise all capacity and ensure even last-minute cancellations are filled.
The BHSCT is proactively managing the reduction of outpatient cancellations and the percentage of patients who ‘do not attend’ to focus on maximising productivity within outpatients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032074%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451358"}},{"id":"451357","reference":"AQW 32073/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-10","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether menopause education programmes for women include information on differentiating potential cancer symptoms from normal menopausal changes.","answerText":"Public health information about the menopause, including both the Public Health Agency’s Sexual Health NI website and NI Direct, include common signs and symptoms to look for as well as advice about when to seek medical help. Public health information is also widely available regarding the signs and symptoms of various types of cancer, and when to seek medical opinion. Healthcare professionals are trained to identify and diagnose these conditions.","answerHtml":"Public health information about the menopause, including both the Public Health Agency’s Sexual Health NI website and NI Direct, include common signs and symptoms to look for as well as advice about when to seek medical help. Public health information is also widely available regarding the signs and symptoms of various types of cancer, and when to seek medical opinion. Healthcare professionals are trained to identify and diagnose these conditions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032073%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451357"}},{"id":"451356","reference":"AQW 32072/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-10","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will consider additional screening measures to improve early detection of non-HPV related gynaecological cancers.","answerText":"All screening programmes in Northern Ireland are based on the advice and recommendations of the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee, that advises the four UK Health Departments on all screening matters; and on the advice from the Northern Ireland Screening Committee (NISC).\n\nAlmost all cervical cancers are linked with persistent infection with a high-risk HPV and since December 2023, in line with the current UK NSC advice, which was endorsed by the NISC, the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme has implemented primary HPV testing. This is considered to be a more accurate and effective test at detecting those at higher risk of developing cervical cancer. The same process is in place in the rest of the UK and Ireland.\n\nI will consider any future recommendations from the UKNSC in relation to additional screening measures to improve early detection of non-HPV related gynaecological cancers.","answerHtml":"All screening programmes in Northern Ireland are based on the advice and recommendations of the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee, that advises the four UK Health Departments on all screening matters; and on the advice from the Northern Ireland Screening Committee (NISC).
Almost all cervical cancers are linked with persistent infection with a high-risk HPV and since December 2023, in line with the current UK NSC advice, which was endorsed by the NISC, the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme has implemented primary HPV testing. This is considered to be a more accurate and effective test at detecting those at higher risk of developing cervical cancer. The same process is in place in the rest of the UK and Ireland.
I will consider any future recommendations from the UKNSC in relation to additional screening measures to improve early detection of non-HPV related gynaecological cancers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032072%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451356"}},{"id":"451355","reference":"AQW 32071/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-10","answered":"2025-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he will publish data on regional variation in waiting times for gynaecological cancer referrals and diagnostics.","answerText":"Data on waiting times for gynaecological cancer referrals and diagnostics for each Trust is available on the My Waiting Times NI website. https://online.hscni.net/my-waiting-times-ni/\n\nMy Waiting Times NI website provides the average outpatient waiting time information for outpatient referrals, by Trust and by speciality across Northern Ireland. Under the speciality of ‘gynaecology’ patients can find the average outpatient wait time by referral priority. Red flag priority show appointments allocated to patients with suspected cancer diagnosis and are the highest priority.\n\nThis section will also show the average await in weeks for gynaecology colposcopy in each Trust.\n\nThe data presented in the website reflects the average waiting time for those patients who are actively waiting for their appointment or procedure. Some patients will wait less time than the average and some patients will wait longer than the average waiting time indicated.","answerHtml":"Data on waiting times for gynaecological cancer referrals and diagnostics for each Trust is available on the My Waiting Times NI website. https://online.hscni.net/my-waiting-times-ni/
My Waiting Times NI website provides the average outpatient waiting time information for outpatient referrals, by Trust and by speciality across Northern Ireland. Under the speciality of ‘gynaecology’ patients can find the average outpatient wait time by referral priority. Red flag priority show appointments allocated to patients with suspected cancer diagnosis and are the highest priority.
This section will also show the average await in weeks for gynaecology colposcopy in each Trust.
The data presented in the website reflects the average waiting time for those patients who are actively waiting for their appointment or procedure. Some patients will wait less time than the average and some patients will wait longer than the average waiting time indicated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032071%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451355"}},{"id":"451354","reference":"AQW 32070/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-10","answered":"2025-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will review current eligibility criteria for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing to ensure that all individuals with a strong family history of breast or ovarian cancer can access testing consistently.","answerText":"The NI Regional Genetics Service is based at Belfast City Hospital and receives referrals from both primary and secondary care across the whole of Northern Ireland. Patients and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer in Northern Ireland are assessed against UK-wide clinical guidelines. Eligibility criteria for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing are set out in the National Genomics Test Directory to provide guidance on which patients may benefit from genomic testing. The criteria are developed by the Test Evaluation Working Group which includes representatives from devolved nations, including Northern Ireland. This ensures that the needs of all UK nations are considered in the development of testing guidelines","answerHtml":"The NI Regional Genetics Service is based at Belfast City Hospital and receives referrals from both primary and secondary care across the whole of Northern Ireland. Patients and families affected by breast and ovarian cancer in Northern Ireland are assessed against UK-wide clinical guidelines. Eligibility criteria for BRCA1 and BRCA2 genetic testing are set out in the National Genomics Test Directory to provide guidance on which patients may benefit from genomic testing. The criteria are developed by the Test Evaluation Working Group which includes representatives from devolved nations, including Northern Ireland. This ensures that the needs of all UK nations are considered in the development of testing guidelines
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2032070%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451354"}},{"id":"454670","reference":"AQO 2471/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-25","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they are planning strategically for the long-term implications of an ageing population.","answerText":"Older people make such a valuable contribution to our local communities and it is vital we do everything we can to support them. We understand the importance of meeting the challenges we face with an ageing population, but we must also embrace the opportunities.\n\nOur Programme for Government includes commitments to wellbeing and inclusion that apply directly to older people.\n\nAnd a new Active Ageing Action Plan, based on the framework of the previous Strategy, is being led by the Department for Communities.\n\nThis plan will help address the needs and priorities for older people and alongside our PfG commitments, will ensure we can make an immediate and lasting impact on the quality of the lives of our older people.\n\nWe are also developing strategies on data and the use of analytics to improve policy making and future proofing. This will prove critical in the planning and investing in the right areas.","answerHtml":"Older people make such a valuable contribution to our local communities and it is vital we do everything we can to support them. We understand the importance of meeting the challenges we face with an ageing population, but we must also embrace the opportunities.
Our Programme for Government includes commitments to wellbeing and inclusion that apply directly to older people.
And a new Active Ageing Action Plan, based on the framework of the previous Strategy, is being led by the Department for Communities.
This plan will help address the needs and priorities for older people and alongside our PfG commitments, will ensure we can make an immediate and lasting impact on the quality of the lives of our older people.
We are also developing strategies on data and the use of analytics to improve policy making and future proofing. This will prove critical in the planning and investing in the right areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=454670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=454670"}},{"id":"451095","reference":"AQW 31960/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children referred through Operation Encompass in (i) 2023-24; and (ii) 2024-25, broken down by constituency","answerText":"The department does not hold this information. These questions would be a matter for the Minister of Justice to answer as the Operation Encompass response is undertaken by the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The department does not hold this information. These questions would be a matter for the Minister of Justice to answer as the Operation Encompass response is undertaken by the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031960%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451095"}},{"id":"451094","reference":"AQW 31959/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of Operation Encompass referrals which have resulted in onward referrals to social services or other safeguarding interventions.","answerText":"The department does not hold this information. These questions would be a matter for the Minister of Justice to answer as the Operation Encompass response is undertaken by the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The department does not hold this information. These questions would be a matter for the Minister of Justice to answer as the Operation Encompass response is undertaken by the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031959%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451094"}},{"id":"451093","reference":"AQW 31958/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the training provided to designated teachers in schools, to respond to Operation Encompass referrals.","answerText":"Designated Teachers in Northern Ireland are provided with the following specialised training/support, alongside some additional training to support Operation Encompass referrals:\n\nInitial two-day training for Designated Teachers/Deputy Designated Teachers provided by the Education Authority's Child Protection Support Service (CPSS). This will be followed by a half-day refresher training course every three years.\n\nThe specific Operation Encompass ‘Key Adult' online training module, with completion certification being verified by Police Service of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Designated Teachers in Northern Ireland are provided with the following specialised training/support, alongside some additional training to support Operation Encompass referrals:
Initial two-day training for Designated Teachers/Deputy Designated Teachers provided by the Education Authority's Child Protection Support Service (CPSS). This will be followed by a half-day refresher training course every three years.
The specific Operation Encompass ‘Key Adult' online training module, with completion certification being verified by Police Service of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031958%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451093"}},{"id":"451092","reference":"AQW 31957/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) how Operation Encompass is being evaluated; and (ii) the measures in place to assess its effectiveness.","answerText":"The Operation Encompass response is undertaken by the PSNI. My department has no role in assessing its overall effectiveness\n\nOfficials will, however, be commissioning an independent evaluation of the Education Authority role in supporting schools who receive an Operation Encompass referral during this academic year.","answerHtml":"The Operation Encompass response is undertaken by the PSNI. My department has no role in assessing its overall effectiveness
Officials will, however, be commissioning an independent evaluation of the Education Authority role in supporting schools who receive an Operation Encompass referral during this academic year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031957%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451092"}},{"id":"451091","reference":"AQW 31956/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-24","answerBy":"2025-10-09","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the support available for children, following an Operation Encompass referral, to ensure their wellbeing is monitored beyond the immediate response.","answerText":"Support for children following an Operation Encompass notification is the responsibility of the school's Designated Teacher. They will assess the child and co-ordinate support based on the child’s identified needs.","answerHtml":"Support for children following an Operation Encompass notification is the responsibility of the school's Designated Teacher. They will assess the child and co-ordinate support based on the child’s identified needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031956%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=451091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=451091"}},{"id":"450807","reference":"AQW 31824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will mandate that information given at cervical screening appointments clearly states that the screening does not detect ovarian, or any other gynaecological, cancer.","answerText":"The current public information on cervical screening does not reference other forms of cancer. The Public Health Agency’s (PHA) public facing information and resources for all screening programmes are kept under regular review and are updated as necessary.\n\nThe PHA will consider the recent changes made to the information in England and if it is appropriate will incorporate similar messaging locally at the next review of their patient leaflets for the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme.","answerHtml":"The current public information on cervical screening does not reference other forms of cancer. The Public Health Agency’s (PHA) public facing information and resources for all screening programmes are kept under regular review and are updated as necessary.
The PHA will consider the recent changes made to the information in England and if it is appropriate will incorporate similar messaging locally at the next review of their patient leaflets for the Northern Ireland Cervical Screening Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450807"}},{"id":"450806","reference":"AQW 31823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there are plans to roll out government-funded awareness campaigns to increase recognition of lesser-known symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as urinary symptoms.","answerText":"Given the current financial position, there are no plans to roll out government-funded awareness campaigns to increase the recognition of lesser-known symptoms of ovarian cancer at this time.\n\nHowever, the Public Health Agency (PHA) works closely with the Department of Health, local Health and Social Care Trusts, and other partners to support a range of activities to raise awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms and services, including:\n\n• Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month - each March the PHA issue a press release and social media messaging to increase awareness of ovarian cancer (https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/ovarian-cancer-awareness-month-be-aware-signs-and-symptoms-0).\n\n• Social media - the PHA posts regularly through social media channels to promote cancer awareness messaging, providing information on the signs and symptoms of cancer, including ovarian cancer, and healthy changes people can make to help reduce their risk of developing cancer in the future.\n\n• ‘Be Cancer Aware’ Website - all PHA cancer awareness messaging signposts to its ‘Be Cancer Aware’ website. The website provides information about the signs and symptoms of a range of cancers, including ovarian cancer, and signposts to recommended sources of support or further information (https://www.becancerawareni.info/signs-and-symptoms/ovarian-cancer).","answerHtml":"Given the current financial position, there are no plans to roll out government-funded awareness campaigns to increase the recognition of lesser-known symptoms of ovarian cancer at this time.
However, the Public Health Agency (PHA) works closely with the Department of Health, local Health and Social Care Trusts, and other partners to support a range of activities to raise awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms and services, including:
• Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month - each March the PHA issue a press release and social media messaging to increase awareness of ovarian cancer (https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/news/ovarian-cancer-awareness-month-be-aware-signs-and-symptoms-0).
• Social media - the PHA posts regularly through social media channels to promote cancer awareness messaging, providing information on the signs and symptoms of cancer, including ovarian cancer, and healthy changes people can make to help reduce their risk of developing cancer in the future.
• ‘Be Cancer Aware’ Website - all PHA cancer awareness messaging signposts to its ‘Be Cancer Aware’ website. The website provides information about the signs and symptoms of a range of cancers, including ovarian cancer, and signposts to recommended sources of support or further information (https://www.becancerawareni.info/signs-and-symptoms/ovarian-cancer).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450806"}},{"id":"450805","reference":"AQW 31822/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department intends to reduce diagnostic delays for ovarian cancer, particularly the delays in obtaining and processing tests such as CA125 blood tests and ultrasounds.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the critical importance of early detection and timely diagnosis in improving outcomes for women affected by ovarian cancer.\n\nNorthern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) referral guidance recommends measuring CA125 in primary care in women with symptoms that suggest ovarian cancer and, if levels are raised, to arrange an ultrasound scan of the abdomen and pelvis and/or refer to gynaecology as a red flag.\n\nDepartment officials have been advised that there is no systemic problem with delays in processing CA125 results.\n\nThere are however recognised challenges in the available capacity for diagnostic imaging including non-obstetric ultrasound (NOUS) and gynaecology services in secondary care which are impacting on the timely delivery of diagnostics.\n\nThe recently published Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards and how we will transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future. Examples within the plan that may support the diagnosis of ovarian cancer include:\n\nGynaecology (£3.5m) - Demand for outpatients, daycase and inpatient red flag and time critical gynaecology services is significantly above capacity available. There is a need to expand gynaecology capacity to manage red flag and time critical patients and expand capacity in medical, nursing and allied health profession patient pathways. This investment will allow for 4,100 assessments and 900 treatments.\n\nDiagnostic Imaging - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT) and Non-Obstetric Ultrasound (NOUS) (£12m) – based on the current spend, use of existing capital equipment, and available staffing infrastructure, there is the potential to reduce the current demand/capacity gap in regional imaging. This will potentially include an additional 5,880 funded CT/MRI sessions and 2,000 funded NOUS sessions per annum.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s has established a Regional Health and Social Care (HSC) Gynaecology Services Forum to oversee the implementation of service improvement recommendations from the “Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Gynaecology Report for Northern Ireland,\" published in January 2024. GIRFT recommendations include streamlining patient pathways to improve diagnostic pathway and efficiency in patient care. This includes development of pathways that use a range of skills mix of nursing and allied health professionals to assist with triage and diagnostic procedures including colposcopy and hysteroscopy.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the critical importance of early detection and timely diagnosis in improving outcomes for women affected by ovarian cancer.
Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) referral guidance recommends measuring CA125 in primary care in women with symptoms that suggest ovarian cancer and, if levels are raised, to arrange an ultrasound scan of the abdomen and pelvis and/or refer to gynaecology as a red flag.
Department officials have been advised that there is no systemic problem with delays in processing CA125 results.
There are however recognised challenges in the available capacity for diagnostic imaging including non-obstetric ultrasound (NOUS) and gynaecology services in secondary care which are impacting on the timely delivery of diagnostics.
The recently published Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards and how we will transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future. Examples within the plan that may support the diagnosis of ovarian cancer include:
Gynaecology (£3.5m) - Demand for outpatients, daycase and inpatient red flag and time critical gynaecology services is significantly above capacity available. There is a need to expand gynaecology capacity to manage red flag and time critical patients and expand capacity in medical, nursing and allied health profession patient pathways. This investment will allow for 4,100 assessments and 900 treatments.
Diagnostic Imaging - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Computed Tomography (CT) and Non-Obstetric Ultrasound (NOUS) (£12m) – based on the current spend, use of existing capital equipment, and available staffing infrastructure, there is the potential to reduce the current demand/capacity gap in regional imaging. This will potentially include an additional 5,880 funded CT/MRI sessions and 2,000 funded NOUS sessions per annum.
In addition, my Department’s has established a Regional Health and Social Care (HSC) Gynaecology Services Forum to oversee the implementation of service improvement recommendations from the “Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Gynaecology Report for Northern Ireland," published in January 2024. GIRFT recommendations include streamlining patient pathways to improve diagnostic pathway and efficiency in patient care. This includes development of pathways that use a range of skills mix of nursing and allied health professionals to assist with triage and diagnostic procedures including colposcopy and hysteroscopy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031822%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450805"}},{"id":"450804","reference":"AQW 31821/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to increase access to and uptake of genomic and germline testing for ovarian cancer patients.","answerText":"Patients in Northern Ireland who meet the criteria outlined in the National Genomic Test Directory criteria for germline testing related to ovarian cancer are eligible for testing via the Northern Ireland Regional Molecular Diagnostics Service (RMDS), based within the Belfast HSC Trust. This approach ensures equity across the UK.\n\nIn addition, Action 27 of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy provides a commitment to integrate genomic testing into cancer pathways, in line with NICE recommendations. This action is designed to improve access to genomic testing and enhance diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for cancer patients, including those with ovarian cancer.\n\nUnder the action, the RMDS sequences 3500 solid tumour samples per year. Where a potential germline disposition is identified, patients are fast tracked for confirmatory testing, allowing for personalised treatment and the identification of at-risk family members. Northern Ireland was the first region in the UK to undertake this revolutionary pathway at a population scale, enabled by investment from the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy. However, additional funding will be necessary to further extend this pathway to increase the number of solid tumour samples genomically sequenced per year.","answerHtml":"Patients in Northern Ireland who meet the criteria outlined in the National Genomic Test Directory criteria for germline testing related to ovarian cancer are eligible for testing via the Northern Ireland Regional Molecular Diagnostics Service (RMDS), based within the Belfast HSC Trust. This approach ensures equity across the UK.
In addition, Action 27 of the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy provides a commitment to integrate genomic testing into cancer pathways, in line with NICE recommendations. This action is designed to improve access to genomic testing and enhance diagnosis, treatment and outcomes for cancer patients, including those with ovarian cancer.
Under the action, the RMDS sequences 3500 solid tumour samples per year. Where a potential germline disposition is identified, patients are fast tracked for confirmatory testing, allowing for personalised treatment and the identification of at-risk family members. Northern Ireland was the first region in the UK to undertake this revolutionary pathway at a population scale, enabled by investment from the Northern Ireland Cancer Strategy. However, additional funding will be necessary to further extend this pathway to increase the number of solid tumour samples genomically sequenced per year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450804"}},{"id":"450803","reference":"AQW 31820/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-23","answerBy":"2025-10-08","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether any assessment has been made of the potential benefits of implementing Jess’s Rule for earlier cancer diagnosis.","answerText":"My Department expects medical professionals to act in line with the General Medical Council’s “Good Medical Practice” guidance, which requires medical professionals to adequately assess a patient’s condition(s), taking account of their history, carry out a physical examination where necessary, and promptly provide (or arrange) suitable advice, investigation or treatment where necessary\n\nThis should be the case whether a patient consultation takes place in person, online or via telephone.\n\nAs part of the Cancer Strategy, within Rapid Diagnosis Centres (RDC) my Department has established a Vague Symptom Pathway which offer GPs a way to refer patients with non-specific but worrying symptoms that might indicate cancer but don't fit existing \"red flag\" pathways. Patients receive a coordinated, one-stop assessment to investigate their symptoms, and results are reported quickly, enabling earlier diagnosis and onward referral\n\nTwo Rapid Diagnosis Centres are currently in operation, located at South Tyrone Hospital in the Southern HSC Trust and Whiteabbey Hospital in the Northern HSC Trust.\n\nThe Vague Symptom Pathway became a fully regional service in July 2024 with patients across all five Trusts in Northern Ireland now able to be referred into either of the two RDC sites directly by their GP, regardless of their location.","answerHtml":"My Department expects medical professionals to act in line with the General Medical Council’s “Good Medical Practice” guidance, which requires medical professionals to adequately assess a patient’s condition(s), taking account of their history, carry out a physical examination where necessary, and promptly provide (or arrange) suitable advice, investigation or treatment where necessary
This should be the case whether a patient consultation takes place in person, online or via telephone.
As part of the Cancer Strategy, within Rapid Diagnosis Centres (RDC) my Department has established a Vague Symptom Pathway which offer GPs a way to refer patients with non-specific but worrying symptoms that might indicate cancer but don't fit existing "red flag" pathways. Patients receive a coordinated, one-stop assessment to investigate their symptoms, and results are reported quickly, enabling earlier diagnosis and onward referral
Two Rapid Diagnosis Centres are currently in operation, located at South Tyrone Hospital in the Southern HSC Trust and Whiteabbey Hospital in the Northern HSC Trust.
The Vague Symptom Pathway became a fully regional service in July 2024 with patients across all five Trusts in Northern Ireland now able to be referred into either of the two RDC sites directly by their GP, regardless of their location.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031820%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450803"}},{"id":"450165","reference":"AQW 31604/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the consideration they will give to incorporating responsible media reporting of domestic abuse into future iterations of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Delivery Plan.","answerText":"Responsible media reporting is an important issue for all violence against women and girls’ incidents, including those of domestic abuse.\n\nThere is already a focus on improving standards of reporting in the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework. The intention is to progress this work in future iterations of the delivery plan.\n\nWe are supportive of the work Women’s Aid Federation NI has done with local journalists to develop ‘Responsible Reporting Matters’ guidelines for media outlets here, and these have recently been updated.\n\nThis has been enabled through support from the Department of Justice (DoJ) and Department of Health (DoH) who have funded the update of these resources, as well as funding workshops and training sessions for journalists.\n\nWe will continue to collaborate with our Community and Voluntary Sector partners and stakeholders across departments to improve responsible media reporting.","answerHtml":"Responsible media reporting is an important issue for all violence against women and girls’ incidents, including those of domestic abuse.
There is already a focus on improving standards of reporting in the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework. The intention is to progress this work in future iterations of the delivery plan.
We are supportive of the work Women’s Aid Federation NI has done with local journalists to develop ‘Responsible Reporting Matters’ guidelines for media outlets here, and these have recently been updated.
This has been enabled through support from the Department of Justice (DoJ) and Department of Health (DoH) who have funded the update of these resources, as well as funding workshops and training sessions for journalists.
We will continue to collaborate with our Community and Voluntary Sector partners and stakeholders across departments to improve responsible media reporting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031604%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450165","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450165"}},{"id":"450164","reference":"AQW 31603/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline how her Department will (i) support the relaunch of Women’s Aid Federation NI’s Responsible Reporting Matters guidelines; and (ii) reflect their principles in its domestic abuse policies and communications.","answerText":"I was pleased, along with the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health, to open the relaunch of Women’s Aid Federation NI’s Responsible Reporting Matters guidelines on 3 March 2025.\n\nMy Department, working jointly with the Department of Health, provided funding through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Small Grant Scheme 24/25 to support the revision and re-launch of the guidance, and to enable Women’s Aid to deliver a series of workshops to journalists.\n\nI believe that these guidelines will encourage more responsible reporting within the media, help to dispel myths and narratives that can perpetuate victim-blaming, and make victims and survivors more comfortable in coming forward to seek support.\n\nI believe the updated guidelines are crucial in creating a wider understanding of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls within the media. My Department will continue to refer to these principles in the development of new policies and communications, ensuring that our approach remains trauma-informed and supports all victims and survivors in the most appropriate way.","answerHtml":"I was pleased, along with the Permanent Secretary of the Department of Health, to open the relaunch of Women’s Aid Federation NI’s Responsible Reporting Matters guidelines on 3 March 2025.
My Department, working jointly with the Department of Health, provided funding through the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Small Grant Scheme 24/25 to support the revision and re-launch of the guidance, and to enable Women’s Aid to deliver a series of workshops to journalists.
I believe that these guidelines will encourage more responsible reporting within the media, help to dispel myths and narratives that can perpetuate victim-blaming, and make victims and survivors more comfortable in coming forward to seek support.
I believe the updated guidelines are crucial in creating a wider understanding of domestic abuse and violence against women and girls within the media. My Department will continue to refer to these principles in the development of new policies and communications, ensuring that our approach remains trauma-informed and supports all victims and survivors in the most appropriate way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031603%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450164","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450164"}},{"id":"450163","reference":"AQW 31602/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail when her Department expects to publish the findings of the 2024 public consultation on the implementation of the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022.","answerText":"Work to finalise the consultation analysis is at an advanced stage and I hope to publish the findings as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Work to finalise the consultation analysis is at an advanced stage and I hope to publish the findings as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031602%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450163","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450163"}},{"id":"450162","reference":"AQW 31601/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she plans to introduce the legislation required to implement the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, during the 2022-27 Assembly mandate.","answerText":"Yes, it is my intention to introduce the legislation during this mandate.","answerHtml":"Yes, it is my intention to introduce the legislation during this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031601%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450162","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450162"}},{"id":"450161","reference":"AQW 31600/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-19","answerBy":"2025-10-06","answered":"2025-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline how her Department is working with the Department of Justice and the Department of Health to ensure the implementation of the Domestic Abuse (Safe Leave) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, supports the Executive’s wider strategy to tackle domestic abuse.","answerText":"My officials engage with their Health and Justice counterparts to ensure that the actions relevant to my Department within the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031 Action Plan Year 1-3 are taken forward.","answerHtml":"My officials engage with their Health and Justice counterparts to ensure that the actions relevant to my Department within the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031 Action Plan Year 1-3 are taken forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031600%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450161"}},{"id":"450053","reference":"AQW 31511/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-18","answerBy":"2025-10-03","answered":"2025-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps he is taking to reduce the length of time households spend in temporary accommodation.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive’s approach to supporting applicants in temporary accommodation, including assisting with reducing the length of time households spend in temporary accommodation, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/0d1aee01-f02c-40d6-b95b-a58c7213c2c0/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf\n\nThe Year 4 Actions can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/93744f51-9819-46ba-85a3-723da092667e/Year-4-Actions-Strategic-Action-Plan-Temporary-Accommodation-2022-27.pdf”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive’s approach to supporting applicants in temporary accommodation, including assisting with reducing the length of time households spend in temporary accommodation, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/0d1aee01-f02c-40d6-b95b-a58c7213c2c0/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf
The Year 4 Actions can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/93744f51-9819-46ba-85a3-723da092667e/Year-4-Actions-Strategic-Action-Plan-Temporary-Accommodation-2022-27.pdf”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031511%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450053","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450053"}},{"id":"450052","reference":"AQW 31510/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-18","answerBy":"2025-10-03","answered":"2025-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline how his Department will improve pathways from temporary accommodation into permanent housing in East Londonderry.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to supporting applicants in temporary accommodation, including assisting with timeliness of move-on options, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/0d1aee01-f02c-40d6-b95b-a58c7213c2c0/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf\n\nThe Year 4 Actions can be found here:\n\nhttps://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/93744f51-9819-46ba-85a3-723da092667e/Year-4-Actions-Strategic-Action-Plan-Temporary-Accommodation-2022-27.pdf”","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to supporting applicants in temporary accommodation, including assisting with timeliness of move-on options, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found at:
https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/0d1aee01-f02c-40d6-b95b-a58c7213c2c0/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf
The Year 4 Actions can be found here:
https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/93744f51-9819-46ba-85a3-723da092667e/Year-4-Actions-Strategic-Action-Plan-Temporary-Accommodation-2022-27.pdf”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031510%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450052"}},{"id":"450051","reference":"AQW 31509/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-18","answerBy":"2025-10-03","answered":"2025-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline how he will ensure that the 600 temporary accommodation units announced in March 2025 are allocated fairly across council areas, according to local need.","answerText":"NIHE has advised me that the principal considerations in the geographical distribution of these units will include:\n\nGeographical areas where exposure to high-cost temporary accommodation is most prevalent.\n\nThe nature of the temporary accommodation client groups (single persons, couples, families).\n\nThe availability of suitable property available to purchase that align with the above criteria.\n\nValue for money considerations.","answerHtml":"NIHE has advised me that the principal considerations in the geographical distribution of these units will include:
Geographical areas where exposure to high-cost temporary accommodation is most prevalent.
The nature of the temporary accommodation client groups (single persons, couples, families).
The availability of suitable property available to purchase that align with the above criteria.
Value for money considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031509%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450051"}},{"id":"450050","reference":"AQW 31508/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-18","answerBy":"2025-10-03","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the Housing Supply Strategy 2024-2039 will support pathways from temporary accommodation into permanent housing.","answerText":"The Housing Supply Strategy sets out the need to prevent homelessness. It recognises the inextricable link between housing, health and social care and support system and the necessity of a continuum of support from temporary to permanent accommodation. Actions aligned to the objectives of the Strategy will be developed throughout its lifetime, taking into account actions also being delivered through the Homelessness Strategy for NI.\n\nOne action already being taken forward by my Department to support those moving from temporary accommodation into permanent housing, is the development of the Loan to Acquire Move-on Accommodation (LAMA).\n\nThe Fund, which was launched in December 2024, is a £10m fund running for five years and is available to Homelessness charities in Northern Ireland looking to provide well managed, long term, private rented sector accommodation at an affordable rate.\n\nThe aim over the five years of the Project is to provide 80-100 units of accommodation as a route into housing for those who cannot access permanent social housing or private rented accommodation, supporting the Homelessness Strategy for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Housing Supply Strategy sets out the need to prevent homelessness. It recognises the inextricable link between housing, health and social care and support system and the necessity of a continuum of support from temporary to permanent accommodation. Actions aligned to the objectives of the Strategy will be developed throughout its lifetime, taking into account actions also being delivered through the Homelessness Strategy for NI.
One action already being taken forward by my Department to support those moving from temporary accommodation into permanent housing, is the development of the Loan to Acquire Move-on Accommodation (LAMA).
The Fund, which was launched in December 2024, is a £10m fund running for five years and is available to Homelessness charities in Northern Ireland looking to provide well managed, long term, private rented sector accommodation at an affordable rate.
The aim over the five years of the Project is to provide 80-100 units of accommodation as a route into housing for those who cannot access permanent social housing or private rented accommodation, supporting the Homelessness Strategy for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031508%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450050"}},{"id":"450049","reference":"AQW 31507/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-18","answerBy":"2025-10-03","answered":"2025-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the timeline for purchasing the 600 temporary accommodation units for the Housing Executive which he announced in March 2025.","answerText":"No properties have yet been purchased under this scheme however NIHE estimate a purchasing profile of:\n\n25 Yr1 2025/26,\n\n125 Yr2 2026/27,\n\n225 Yr3 2027/28\n\n225 Yr4 2028/29","answerHtml":"No properties have yet been purchased under this scheme however NIHE estimate a purchasing profile of:
25 Yr1 2025/26,
125 Yr2 2026/27,
225 Yr3 2027/28
225 Yr4 2028/29
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031507%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450049"}},{"id":"449868","reference":"AQW 31403/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has assessed the wider impact that delays in dementia diagnosis and inadequate support for people with dementia has on the health and social care system.","answerText":"Unpaid Carers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland have access to a wide range of physical and emotional support services. Each HSC Trust will offer a carers assessment and each Trust has a carer co-ordinator to support carers with a wide range of physical and emotional supports. Praxis care offers a floating support service in the Coleraine, Foyle Londonderry and lisnaskea Fermanagh area. They visit, carers and people living with dementia in their homes to assist with daily tasks and emotional well-being. Respite services can be offered to carers to provide a short break from their caring role. The C&V sector also provide a range of physical and emotional supports to unpaid carers.\n\nDementia NI runs empower and support group across Northern Ireland allowing carers and people with dementia to share experiences and receive peer support.\n\nAlzheimer’s Society dementia advisors offers awareness sessions to carers\n\nCarers NI provide advice and guidance to unpaid carers with expert information, guidance and support.\n\nA Regional Dementia Project Board was established in May 2024. Its priorities include working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to improve services for people with dementia and their carers. It focuses on service delivery within the context of the Regional Dementia care pathway. It has developed a Service User and Carer workstream which will incorporate the voices of service users and carers.\n\nThe Reginal Dementia Care Pathway is the current strategic tool that has a number of core values that underpin Dementia care these are Enabling experience, Early intervention, Personalisation and Integration. The pathway adopts a person-centred holistic approach ensuing emotional and social needs are met. There are 5 pillars of the Pathway and the 3rd pillar ‘Living Well with dementia’ promotes emotional well-being through meaningful activities, community engagement and psychological support. It encourages social inclusion and independence to reduce social isolation, maintain dignity and promotes stimulation. The 4th Pillar ‘Coping with Change’ offers emotional and psychological support for both individuals with dementia and their carers. This would include access to support groups, counselling and peer networks to help manage the emotional impact of dementia.\n\nThe Department of Health has acknowledged the issue of delays in dementia diagnosis and their impact on the health and social care system. My Department has taken some key actions in recognition of the delays in dementia diagnosis.\n\nMy Department has set a 9 -week target for first assessment from referral to memory services and Trusts’ performance continues to be monitored against this target with improvement plans in place to address areas of underperformance.\n\nMy Department leads on a number of working groups with Trust Dementia Services personnel to continually seek to make improvements to dementia services within the statutory sector. This includes a focus on service delivery from a new referral through to treatment. Care and support services across the wider multidisciplinary team.\n\nMy officials are currently conducting a Dementia Landscape Review for my consideration.","answerHtml":"Unpaid Carers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland have access to a wide range of physical and emotional support services. Each HSC Trust will offer a carers assessment and each Trust has a carer co-ordinator to support carers with a wide range of physical and emotional supports. Praxis care offers a floating support service in the Coleraine, Foyle Londonderry and lisnaskea Fermanagh area. They visit, carers and people living with dementia in their homes to assist with daily tasks and emotional well-being. Respite services can be offered to carers to provide a short break from their caring role. The C&V sector also provide a range of physical and emotional supports to unpaid carers.
Dementia NI runs empower and support group across Northern Ireland allowing carers and people with dementia to share experiences and receive peer support.
Alzheimer’s Society dementia advisors offers awareness sessions to carers
Carers NI provide advice and guidance to unpaid carers with expert information, guidance and support.
A Regional Dementia Project Board was established in May 2024. Its priorities include working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to improve services for people with dementia and their carers. It focuses on service delivery within the context of the Regional Dementia care pathway. It has developed a Service User and Carer workstream which will incorporate the voices of service users and carers.
The Reginal Dementia Care Pathway is the current strategic tool that has a number of core values that underpin Dementia care these are Enabling experience, Early intervention, Personalisation and Integration. The pathway adopts a person-centred holistic approach ensuing emotional and social needs are met. There are 5 pillars of the Pathway and the 3rd pillar ‘Living Well with dementia’ promotes emotional well-being through meaningful activities, community engagement and psychological support. It encourages social inclusion and independence to reduce social isolation, maintain dignity and promotes stimulation. The 4th Pillar ‘Coping with Change’ offers emotional and psychological support for both individuals with dementia and their carers. This would include access to support groups, counselling and peer networks to help manage the emotional impact of dementia.
The Department of Health has acknowledged the issue of delays in dementia diagnosis and their impact on the health and social care system. My Department has taken some key actions in recognition of the delays in dementia diagnosis.
My Department has set a 9 -week target for first assessment from referral to memory services and Trusts’ performance continues to be monitored against this target with improvement plans in place to address areas of underperformance.
My Department leads on a number of working groups with Trust Dementia Services personnel to continually seek to make improvements to dementia services within the statutory sector. This includes a focus on service delivery from a new referral through to treatment. Care and support services across the wider multidisciplinary team.
My officials are currently conducting a Dementia Landscape Review for my consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031403%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449868","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449868"}},{"id":"449867","reference":"AQW 31402/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current average waiting time for a memory clinic appointment, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) what steps are being taken to reduce delays in dementia diagnosis.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Trusts do not routinely report on the average waiting time for a memory clinic appointment. As part of the Encompass roll-out, the Health and Social Care Trusts have now gone live with a new electronic patient record system. As the Trusts continue to transition to completely digitised records, the data generated within the context of service delivery is subject to a process of extensive validation. Until this process is complete, there may be gaps in the data that Trusts are able to submit for reporting purposes.\n\nMy health officials work closely with the HSC Trusts and I can advise that the steps taken to reduce delays for a memory clinic appointments include;\n\nExploring waiting list initiatives.\n\nRaising awareness of Dementia and early symptoms and the importance of seeking earlier diagnosis;\n\nExploring the education and recruitment of Advanced Nurse Practitioners into Memory Services to aid with diagnosis. The WHSCT and the NHSCT currently have employed an Advanced Nurse Practitioner within their memory services.\n\nActive recruitment being undertaken by Trusts that are facing challenges with recruitment of Psychiatrists.\n\nExploring the use of bank staff to increase capacity for diagnostic assessments in the Memory Service.\n\nOngoing administration and clinical validation exercises to cleanse current waiting list.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Trusts do not routinely report on the average waiting time for a memory clinic appointment. As part of the Encompass roll-out, the Health and Social Care Trusts have now gone live with a new electronic patient record system. As the Trusts continue to transition to completely digitised records, the data generated within the context of service delivery is subject to a process of extensive validation. Until this process is complete, there may be gaps in the data that Trusts are able to submit for reporting purposes.
My health officials work closely with the HSC Trusts and I can advise that the steps taken to reduce delays for a memory clinic appointments include;
Exploring waiting list initiatives.
Raising awareness of Dementia and early symptoms and the importance of seeking earlier diagnosis;
Exploring the education and recruitment of Advanced Nurse Practitioners into Memory Services to aid with diagnosis. The WHSCT and the NHSCT currently have employed an Advanced Nurse Practitioner within their memory services.
Active recruitment being undertaken by Trusts that are facing challenges with recruitment of Psychiatrists.
Exploring the use of bank staff to increase capacity for diagnostic assessments in the Memory Service.
Ongoing administration and clinical validation exercises to cleanse current waiting list.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031402%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449867","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449867"}},{"id":"449866","reference":"AQW 31401/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether emotional wellbeing and meaningful stimulation are included as core standards in dementia care.","answerText":"Unpaid Carers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland have access to a wide range of physical and emotional support services. Each HSC Trust will offer a carers assessment and each Trust has a carer co-ordinator to support carers with a wide range of physical and emotional supports. Praxis care offers a floating support service in the Coleraine, Foyle Londonderry and lisnaskea Fermanagh area. They visit, carers and people living with dementia in their homes to assist with daily tasks and emotional well-being. Respite services can be offered to carers to provide a short break from their caring role. The C&V sector also provide a range of physical and emotional supports to unpaid carers.\n\nDementia NI runs empower and support group across Northern Ireland allowing carers and people with dementia to share experiences and receive peer support.\n\nAlzheimer’s Society dementia advisors offers awareness sessions to carers\n\nCarers NI provide advice and guidance to unpaid carers with expert information, guidance and support.\n\nA Regional Dementia Project Board was established in May 2024. Its priorities include working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to improve services for people with dementia and their carers. It focuses on service delivery within the context of the Regional Dementia care pathway. It has developed a Service User and Carer workstream which will incorporate the voices of service users and carers.\n\nThe Reginal Dementia Care Pathway is the current strategic tool that has a number of core values that underpin Dementia care these are Enabling experience, Early intervention, Personalisation and Integration. The pathway adopts a person-centred holistic approach ensuing emotional and social needs are met. There are 5 pillars of the Pathway and the 3rd pillar ‘Living Well with dementia’ promotes emotional well-being through meaningful activities, community engagement and psychological support. It encourages social inclusion and independence to reduce social isolation, maintain dignity and promotes stimulation. The 4th Pillar ‘Coping with Change’ offers emotional and psychological support for both individuals with dementia and their carers. This would include access to support groups, counselling and peer networks to help manage the emotional impact of dementia.\n\nThe Department of Health has acknowledged the issue of delays in dementia diagnosis and their impact on the health and social care system. My Department has taken some key actions in recognition of the delays in dementia diagnosis.\n\nMy Department has set a 9 -week target for first assessment from referral to memory services and Trusts’ performance continues to be monitored against this target with improvement plans in place to address areas of underperformance.\n\nMy Department leads on a number of working groups with Trust Dementia Services personnel to continually seek to make improvements to dementia services within the statutory sector. This includes a focus on service delivery from a new referral through to treatment. Care and support services across the wider multidisciplinary team.\n\nMy officials are currently conducting a Dementia Landscape Review for my consideration.","answerHtml":"Unpaid Carers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland have access to a wide range of physical and emotional support services. Each HSC Trust will offer a carers assessment and each Trust has a carer co-ordinator to support carers with a wide range of physical and emotional supports. Praxis care offers a floating support service in the Coleraine, Foyle Londonderry and lisnaskea Fermanagh area. They visit, carers and people living with dementia in their homes to assist with daily tasks and emotional well-being. Respite services can be offered to carers to provide a short break from their caring role. The C&V sector also provide a range of physical and emotional supports to unpaid carers.
Dementia NI runs empower and support group across Northern Ireland allowing carers and people with dementia to share experiences and receive peer support.
Alzheimer’s Society dementia advisors offers awareness sessions to carers
Carers NI provide advice and guidance to unpaid carers with expert information, guidance and support.
A Regional Dementia Project Board was established in May 2024. Its priorities include working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to improve services for people with dementia and their carers. It focuses on service delivery within the context of the Regional Dementia care pathway. It has developed a Service User and Carer workstream which will incorporate the voices of service users and carers.
The Reginal Dementia Care Pathway is the current strategic tool that has a number of core values that underpin Dementia care these are Enabling experience, Early intervention, Personalisation and Integration. The pathway adopts a person-centred holistic approach ensuing emotional and social needs are met. There are 5 pillars of the Pathway and the 3rd pillar ‘Living Well with dementia’ promotes emotional well-being through meaningful activities, community engagement and psychological support. It encourages social inclusion and independence to reduce social isolation, maintain dignity and promotes stimulation. The 4th Pillar ‘Coping with Change’ offers emotional and psychological support for both individuals with dementia and their carers. This would include access to support groups, counselling and peer networks to help manage the emotional impact of dementia.
The Department of Health has acknowledged the issue of delays in dementia diagnosis and their impact on the health and social care system. My Department has taken some key actions in recognition of the delays in dementia diagnosis.
My Department has set a 9 -week target for first assessment from referral to memory services and Trusts’ performance continues to be monitored against this target with improvement plans in place to address areas of underperformance.
My Department leads on a number of working groups with Trust Dementia Services personnel to continually seek to make improvements to dementia services within the statutory sector. This includes a focus on service delivery from a new referral through to treatment. Care and support services across the wider multidisciplinary team.
My officials are currently conducting a Dementia Landscape Review for my consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031401%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449866","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449866"}},{"id":"449865","reference":"AQW 31400/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what specific support is available to unpaid carers of people with dementia to assist them to provide both physical and emotional care.","answerText":"Unpaid Carers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland have access to a wide range of physical and emotional support services. Each HSC Trust will offer a carers assessment and each Trust has a carer co-ordinator to support carers with a wide range of physical and emotional supports. Praxis care offers a floating support service in the Coleraine, Foyle Londonderry and lisnaskea Fermanagh area. They visit, carers and people living with dementia in their homes to assist with daily tasks and emotional well-being. Respite services can be offered to carers to provide a short break from their caring role. The C&V sector also provide a range of physical and emotional supports to unpaid carers.\n\nDementia NI runs empower and support group across Northern Ireland allowing carers and people with dementia to share experiences and receive peer support.\n\nAlzheimer’s Society dementia advisors offers awareness sessions to carers\n\nCarers NI provide advice and guidance to unpaid carers with expert information, guidance and support.\n\nA Regional Dementia Project Board was established in May 2024. Its priorities include working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to improve services for people with dementia and their carers. It focuses on service delivery within the context of the Regional Dementia care pathway. It has developed a Service User and Carer workstream which will incorporate the voices of service users and carers.\n\nThe Reginal Dementia Care Pathway is the current strategic tool that has a number of core values that underpin Dementia care these are Enabling experience, Early intervention, Personalisation and Integration. The pathway adopts a person-centred holistic approach ensuing emotional and social needs are met. There are 5 pillars of the Pathway and the 3rd pillar ‘Living Well with dementia’ promotes emotional well-being through meaningful activities, community engagement and psychological support. It encourages social inclusion and independence to reduce social isolation, maintain dignity and promotes stimulation. The 4th Pillar ‘Coping with Change’ offers emotional and psychological support for both individuals with dementia and their carers. This would include access to support groups, counselling and peer networks to help manage the emotional impact of dementia.\n\nThe Department of Health has acknowledged the issue of delays in dementia diagnosis and their impact on the health and social care system. My Department has taken some key actions in recognition of the delays in dementia diagnosis.\n\nMy Department has set a 9 -week target for first assessment from referral to memory services and Trusts’ performance continues to be monitored against this target with improvement plans in place to address areas of underperformance.\n\nMy Department leads on a number of working groups with Trust Dementia Services personnel to continually seek to make improvements to dementia services within the statutory sector. This includes a focus on service delivery from a new referral through to treatment. Care and support services across the wider multidisciplinary team.\n\nMy officials are currently conducting a Dementia Landscape Review for my consideration.","answerHtml":"Unpaid Carers of people with dementia in Northern Ireland have access to a wide range of physical and emotional support services. Each HSC Trust will offer a carers assessment and each Trust has a carer co-ordinator to support carers with a wide range of physical and emotional supports. Praxis care offers a floating support service in the Coleraine, Foyle Londonderry and lisnaskea Fermanagh area. They visit, carers and people living with dementia in their homes to assist with daily tasks and emotional well-being. Respite services can be offered to carers to provide a short break from their caring role. The C&V sector also provide a range of physical and emotional supports to unpaid carers.
Dementia NI runs empower and support group across Northern Ireland allowing carers and people with dementia to share experiences and receive peer support.
Alzheimer’s Society dementia advisors offers awareness sessions to carers
Carers NI provide advice and guidance to unpaid carers with expert information, guidance and support.
A Regional Dementia Project Board was established in May 2024. Its priorities include working collaboratively with all relevant stakeholders to improve services for people with dementia and their carers. It focuses on service delivery within the context of the Regional Dementia care pathway. It has developed a Service User and Carer workstream which will incorporate the voices of service users and carers.
The Reginal Dementia Care Pathway is the current strategic tool that has a number of core values that underpin Dementia care these are Enabling experience, Early intervention, Personalisation and Integration. The pathway adopts a person-centred holistic approach ensuing emotional and social needs are met. There are 5 pillars of the Pathway and the 3rd pillar ‘Living Well with dementia’ promotes emotional well-being through meaningful activities, community engagement and psychological support. It encourages social inclusion and independence to reduce social isolation, maintain dignity and promotes stimulation. The 4th Pillar ‘Coping with Change’ offers emotional and psychological support for both individuals with dementia and their carers. This would include access to support groups, counselling and peer networks to help manage the emotional impact of dementia.
The Department of Health has acknowledged the issue of delays in dementia diagnosis and their impact on the health and social care system. My Department has taken some key actions in recognition of the delays in dementia diagnosis.
My Department has set a 9 -week target for first assessment from referral to memory services and Trusts’ performance continues to be monitored against this target with improvement plans in place to address areas of underperformance.
My Department leads on a number of working groups with Trust Dementia Services personnel to continually seek to make improvements to dementia services within the statutory sector. This includes a focus on service delivery from a new referral through to treatment. Care and support services across the wider multidisciplinary team.
My officials are currently conducting a Dementia Landscape Review for my consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031400%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449865"}},{"id":"449864","reference":"AQW 31399/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-17","answerBy":"2025-10-02","answered":"2025-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) when his Department plans to publish an updated dementia strategy; and (ii) whether that strategy will include measures to improve emotional wellbeing and prevent isolation.","answerText":"The strategic tool for Dementia is the Regional Dementia Care Pathway. The Pathway adopts a person-centred, holistic approach to Dementia care, ensuring that emotional and social needs are addressed alongside clinical support. The Pathway was developed with input from people living with Dementia and their carers, ensuring that emotional needs and social inclusion were not overlooked but embedded throughout the care journey.\n\nImplementation of the Pathway has, regrettably, been delayed due to funding pressures, significant service capacity challenges to deliver existing care pathways with gaps in available workforce and increased demand. To address this, a Regional Dementia Services Project Board has been established to refocus attention on Dementia care as a priority across Northern Ireland.\n\nOur Health and Social Care Trusts, working with community partners, remain committed to raising awareness and providing support for those living with Dementia and their Carers.","answerHtml":"The strategic tool for Dementia is the Regional Dementia Care Pathway. The Pathway adopts a person-centred, holistic approach to Dementia care, ensuring that emotional and social needs are addressed alongside clinical support. The Pathway was developed with input from people living with Dementia and their carers, ensuring that emotional needs and social inclusion were not overlooked but embedded throughout the care journey.
Implementation of the Pathway has, regrettably, been delayed due to funding pressures, significant service capacity challenges to deliver existing care pathways with gaps in available workforce and increased demand. To address this, a Regional Dementia Services Project Board has been established to refocus attention on Dementia care as a priority across Northern Ireland.
Our Health and Social Care Trusts, working with community partners, remain committed to raising awareness and providing support for those living with Dementia and their Carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031399%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449864"}},{"id":"449682","reference":"AQW 31259/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any targeted measures being developed to support older people in rural areas facing higher heating costs.","answerText":"My Department is in the process of finalising the new Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland. With a vision of “a warm, healthy home for everyone,” the strategy has three objectives: make homes more energy efficient, collaborate and build capacity and protect consumers. The aim is to support low income households with better access to trusted energy and energy efficiency advice and with energy saving measures for their homes.\n\nMy Department also delivers the Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS) for owner occupiers and those in the private rented sector most at risk of fuel poverty. The scheme is directed at low-income households, though not\n\nspecifically targeted to older people. It provides a range of energy-efficiency improvement measures including cavity and loft insulation, new and replacement heating systems and windows, where appropriate. The Department is also currently developing a new more ambitious Warm Healthy Homes Scheme that will replace the Affordable Warmth Scheme when it ends. It will provide support to low-income households experiencing fuel poverty, offering a range of measures including insulation, low carbon heating solutions and renewable technologies. The Scheme will be open to applications from all households that meet the eligibility criteria including those with older occupants in rural areas.\n\nWork is also ongoing on a number of activities to promote the uptake of Pension Credit, which can help older people access extra support with their heating costs, through the Cold Weather Payment.\n\nThis includes:\n\nregular social media and broadcast campaigns, with a further advertising campaign scheduled for October across radio and press channels;\n\ndistribution of information leaflets to libraries and GP surgeries;\n\ncollaboration with other statutory bodies such as the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Trusts;\n\nidentifying Pension Credit entitlement at the point where a person makes their State Pension claim.\n\nMy Department continues to work closely with community and voluntary sector partners to reach out to those who are eligible but not currently claiming. This approach helps ensure older people, particularly in rural communities are informed about, and able to access the financial support available to help them with their heating costs.","answerHtml":"My Department is in the process of finalising the new Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland. With a vision of “a warm, healthy home for everyone,” the strategy has three objectives: make homes more energy efficient, collaborate and build capacity and protect consumers. The aim is to support low income households with better access to trusted energy and energy efficiency advice and with energy saving measures for their homes.
My Department also delivers the Affordable Warmth Scheme (AWS) for owner occupiers and those in the private rented sector most at risk of fuel poverty. The scheme is directed at low-income households, though not
specifically targeted to older people. It provides a range of energy-efficiency improvement measures including cavity and loft insulation, new and replacement heating systems and windows, where appropriate. The Department is also currently developing a new more ambitious Warm Healthy Homes Scheme that will replace the Affordable Warmth Scheme when it ends. It will provide support to low-income households experiencing fuel poverty, offering a range of measures including insulation, low carbon heating solutions and renewable technologies. The Scheme will be open to applications from all households that meet the eligibility criteria including those with older occupants in rural areas.
Work is also ongoing on a number of activities to promote the uptake of Pension Credit, which can help older people access extra support with their heating costs, through the Cold Weather Payment.
This includes:
regular social media and broadcast campaigns, with a further advertising campaign scheduled for October across radio and press channels;
distribution of information leaflets to libraries and GP surgeries;
collaboration with other statutory bodies such as the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Trusts;
identifying Pension Credit entitlement at the point where a person makes their State Pension claim.
My Department continues to work closely with community and voluntary sector partners to reach out to those who are eligible but not currently claiming. This approach helps ensure older people, particularly in rural communities are informed about, and able to access the financial support available to help them with their heating costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031259%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449682","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449682"}},{"id":"449681","reference":"AQW 31258/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the expected timeline for the delivery of Winter Fuel Payments for winter 2025-26.","answerText":"Winter Fuel Payment in Northern Ireland is administered and paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Payments are made automatically to those eligible and it is expected that the majority of payments will be made during November and December 2025.","answerHtml":"Winter Fuel Payment in Northern Ireland is administered and paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). Payments are made automatically to those eligible and it is expected that the majority of payments will be made during November and December 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031258%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449681","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449681"}},{"id":"449680","reference":"AQW 31257/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the Anti-Poverty Strategy will address the needs of older people, including (i) fuel poverty; and (ii) the rising cost of living.","answerText":"I remain committed to developing a sustainable, deliverable Anti-Poverty Strategy, prioritising the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of older people.\n\nThe draft Strategy contains a number of strategic commitments which will help address the needs of older people including -\n\nLobbying Westminster to maintain the triple lock guarantee in relation to pension payments.\n\nDeveloping and delivering a Fuel Poverty Strategy.\n\nProviding advice, increasing awareness and providing focused support to ensure that older people can access their full benefit entitlement. (This will include a programme of work to promote Pension Credit uptake and delivery of the Make the Call wraparound service.)\n\nIn addition to this the Strategy also contains work which, while not targeted solely towards the needs of older people, will help improve their lives alongside many others across our communities. These include, the development and delivery of a new Safer Communities Strategic Approach, a new People and Place Strategic Framework, and the implementation of the Executive Housing Supply and Disability Strategies.\n\nWhile the Department for Communities is leading on the Anti-Poverty Strategy, it remains an Executive Strategy. My officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy.","answerHtml":"I remain committed to developing a sustainable, deliverable Anti-Poverty Strategy, prioritising the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives throughout NI, including the needs of older people.
The draft Strategy contains a number of strategic commitments which will help address the needs of older people including -
Lobbying Westminster to maintain the triple lock guarantee in relation to pension payments.
Developing and delivering a Fuel Poverty Strategy.
Providing advice, increasing awareness and providing focused support to ensure that older people can access their full benefit entitlement. (This will include a programme of work to promote Pension Credit uptake and delivery of the Make the Call wraparound service.)
In addition to this the Strategy also contains work which, while not targeted solely towards the needs of older people, will help improve their lives alongside many others across our communities. These include, the development and delivery of a new Safer Communities Strategic Approach, a new People and Place Strategic Framework, and the implementation of the Executive Housing Supply and Disability Strategies.
While the Department for Communities is leading on the Anti-Poverty Strategy, it remains an Executive Strategy. My officials are currently analysing and considering all responses received throughout the public consultation process. I will share the outcome of this analysis with my Executive colleagues and we will take forward any further development as appropriate before finalising the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031257%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449680"}},{"id":"449679","reference":"AQW 31256/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any action his Department is taking to prevent lengthy delays in approvals for applications made to the Affordable Warmth Scheme, particularly for pensioners and other vulnerable applicants.","answerText":"I committed £7.5m to the Affordable Warmth Scheme this year covering £5m of committed approvals from last year and £2.5m for new approvals this year meaning approximately 570 new approvals can be issued by NIHE. I requested additional funding for the Affordable Warmth Scheme in the June Monitoring Round; however, that bid was not met. The Housing Executive prioritise eligible applications in line with criteria, as agreed with my Department, prioritising those households without an operational heating system. I will continue to press for additional funding for this important scheme through the monitoring round process.","answerHtml":"I committed £7.5m to the Affordable Warmth Scheme this year covering £5m of committed approvals from last year and £2.5m for new approvals this year meaning approximately 570 new approvals can be issued by NIHE. I requested additional funding for the Affordable Warmth Scheme in the June Monitoring Round; however, that bid was not met. The Housing Executive prioritise eligible applications in line with criteria, as agreed with my Department, prioritising those households without an operational heating system. I will continue to press for additional funding for this important scheme through the monitoring round process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031256%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449679"}},{"id":"449678","reference":"AQW 31255/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-16","answerBy":"2025-10-01","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether funding allocated to the Affordable Warmth Scheme for 2025-26 has been released to the Housing Executive.","answerText":"I can confirm that the funding allocated to the Affordable Warmth Scheme for 2025-26 has been released to the Housing Executive.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the funding allocated to the Affordable Warmth Scheme for 2025-26 has been released to the Housing Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031255%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449678"}},{"id":"449405","reference":"AQW 31131/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-15","answerBy":"2025-09-30","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration being given to the provision of childcare support during non-standard working hours, to enable parents in shift work to remain in employment.","answerText":"The provision of high-quality inclusive childcare for children with additional needs and to support parents working non-standard hours has been identified by stakeholders as a priority. Proposals will be included within the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy I plan to bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.\n\nWhile the Department of Education does not have a role in setting pay or terms and conditions for childcare staff for a sector which is largely made up of private providers, the draft Strategy will include proposals to support the childcare workforce, including training needs, recruitment and retention challenges.","answerHtml":"The provision of high-quality inclusive childcare for children with additional needs and to support parents working non-standard hours has been identified by stakeholders as a priority. Proposals will be included within the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy I plan to bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.
While the Department of Education does not have a role in setting pay or terms and conditions for childcare staff for a sector which is largely made up of private providers, the draft Strategy will include proposals to support the childcare workforce, including training needs, recruitment and retention challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031131%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449405","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449405"}},{"id":"449404","reference":"AQW 31130/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-15","answerBy":"2025-09-30","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he will expand the Women’s Centre Childcare Fund to better meet the needs of low-income families.","answerText":"The Women’s Centre Childcare Fund (WCCF) is aimed at assisting low income families by providing two hour childcare sessions to parents who are in receipt of Income Support, or Unemployed and registered for JSA (income based), Employment Support Allowance or Universal Credit and engaged in part-time (less than 16 hours per week) paid voluntary / community development work or engaged in vocational / educational development or training or engaged in personal development training. Should none of these apply, have within the previous 12 months, progressed into employment following a period of unemployment.\n\nThere are no plans to expand the current eligibility.","answerHtml":"The Women’s Centre Childcare Fund (WCCF) is aimed at assisting low income families by providing two hour childcare sessions to parents who are in receipt of Income Support, or Unemployed and registered for JSA (income based), Employment Support Allowance or Universal Credit and engaged in part-time (less than 16 hours per week) paid voluntary / community development work or engaged in vocational / educational development or training or engaged in personal development training. Should none of these apply, have within the previous 12 months, progressed into employment following a period of unemployment.
There are no plans to expand the current eligibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031130%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449404","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449404"}},{"id":"449403","reference":"AQW 31129/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-15","answerBy":"2025-09-30","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans he has to improve (i) pay, (ii) career progression,; and (iii) working conditions for childcare staff, as part of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy.","answerText":"The provision of high-quality inclusive childcare for children with additional needs and to support parents working non-standard hours has been identified by stakeholders as a priority. Proposals will be included within the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy I plan to bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.\n\nWhile the Department of Education does not have a role in setting pay or terms and conditions for childcare staff for a sector which is largely made up of private providers, the draft Strategy will include proposals to support the childcare workforce, including training needs, recruitment and retention challenges.","answerHtml":"The provision of high-quality inclusive childcare for children with additional needs and to support parents working non-standard hours has been identified by stakeholders as a priority. Proposals will be included within the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy I plan to bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.
While the Department of Education does not have a role in setting pay or terms and conditions for childcare staff for a sector which is largely made up of private providers, the draft Strategy will include proposals to support the childcare workforce, including training needs, recruitment and retention challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031129%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449403","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449403"}},{"id":"449402","reference":"AQW 31128/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-15","answerBy":"2025-09-30","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how he will ensure that all children have access to high quality and inclusive childcare, including those with special educational needs or language barriers.","answerText":"The provision of high-quality inclusive childcare for children with additional needs and to support parents working non-standard hours has been identified by stakeholders as a priority. Proposals will be included within the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy I plan to bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.\n\nWhile the Department of Education does not have a role in setting pay or terms and conditions for childcare staff for a sector which is largely made up of private providers, the draft Strategy will include proposals to support the childcare workforce, including training needs, recruitment and retention challenges.","answerHtml":"The provision of high-quality inclusive childcare for children with additional needs and to support parents working non-standard hours has been identified by stakeholders as a priority. Proposals will be included within the draft Early Learning and Childcare Strategy I plan to bring forward to the Executive in the coming weeks.
While the Department of Education does not have a role in setting pay or terms and conditions for childcare staff for a sector which is largely made up of private providers, the draft Strategy will include proposals to support the childcare workforce, including training needs, recruitment and retention challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031128%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449402","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449402"}},{"id":"449401","reference":"AQW 31127/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-15","answerBy":"2025-09-30","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the investment being made in training and skills development for the childcare workforce.","answerText":"High-quality, affordable childcare remains a strategic priority for the Executive. Supporting skills and education pathways for those working within the childcare and childminding sectors is essential to achieving this aim. My Department currently facilitates a range of training and qualification pathways through Further and Higher Education institutions, as well as vocational routes including apprenticeships, traineeships and academies. This year, I have secured over £350,000 to support Further Education Colleges to develop a series of online accredited childcare specific micro courses, at Levels 2 and 3, building on the £740,000 invested last year. A second collaborative Assured Skills Academy in Early Learning and Childcare has also recently launched to support participants with the training needed to gain entry level roles in the childcare sector.","answerHtml":"High-quality, affordable childcare remains a strategic priority for the Executive. Supporting skills and education pathways for those working within the childcare and childminding sectors is essential to achieving this aim. My Department currently facilitates a range of training and qualification pathways through Further and Higher Education institutions, as well as vocational routes including apprenticeships, traineeships and academies. This year, I have secured over £350,000 to support Further Education Colleges to develop a series of online accredited childcare specific micro courses, at Levels 2 and 3, building on the £740,000 invested last year. A second collaborative Assured Skills Academy in Early Learning and Childcare has also recently launched to support participants with the training needed to gain entry level roles in the childcare sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031127%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449401","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449401"}},{"id":"449149","reference":"AQW 31039/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-12","answerBy":"2025-09-29","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any steps being taken to address under-reporting of domestic abuse and coercive control in rural areas; and (ii) how access to refuges and specialist services is being improved in rural communities.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031039%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449149"}},{"id":"449148","reference":"AQW 31038/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-12","answerBy":"2025-09-29","answered":"2025-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any steps being taken to improve firearm security in rural areas, and (ii) how breaches are monitored and enforced.","answerText":"Firearms security in rural and urban areas are all treated with the same high level of individual attention by PSNI. The PSNI’s Firearms & Explosives Branch (FEB) are the firearms licensing authority in Northern Ireland.\n\nSecurity inspections are completed by trained PSNI staff, in person, at the home of the applicant/FAC holder and agreed standards, in accordance with the Firearms Security Handbook, must be met in order that an application may be progressed towards approval.\n\nPSNI FEB can review (and potentially revoke) a person’s FAC, subject to PSNI being made aware of any breaches of a FAC, including safe storage, or any concerns about the fitness of a FAC holder to continue to possess firearms and/or ammunition. PSNI FEB can also issue warnings, when appropriate, to FAC holders.\n\nUpon notification of any concerns, PSNI FEB will act promptly and, whilst a FAC holders’ fitness is under review e.g. following the breach of any FAC conditions, any firearms and/or ammunition will be seized and remain in police safekeeping until a final decision is made.","answerHtml":"Firearms security in rural and urban areas are all treated with the same high level of individual attention by PSNI. The PSNI’s Firearms & Explosives Branch (FEB) are the firearms licensing authority in Northern Ireland.
Security inspections are completed by trained PSNI staff, in person, at the home of the applicant/FAC holder and agreed standards, in accordance with the Firearms Security Handbook, must be met in order that an application may be progressed towards approval.
PSNI FEB can review (and potentially revoke) a person’s FAC, subject to PSNI being made aware of any breaches of a FAC, including safe storage, or any concerns about the fitness of a FAC holder to continue to possess firearms and/or ammunition. PSNI FEB can also issue warnings, when appropriate, to FAC holders.
Upon notification of any concerns, PSNI FEB will act promptly and, whilst a FAC holders’ fitness is under review e.g. following the breach of any FAC conditions, any firearms and/or ammunition will be seized and remain in police safekeeping until a final decision is made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031038%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449148"}},{"id":"449147","reference":"AQW 31037/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-12","answerBy":"2025-09-29","answered":"2025-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the July 2025 Northern Ireland Audit Office report Waste Crime in Northern Ireland finding that waste crime costs approximately £34 million annually; and (ii) what steps are being taken to strengthen enforcement and deterrence.","answerText":"I welcome the publication of this report and I can provide assurance that its recommendations will be considered very carefully by officials in the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and the Department.\n\nI am conscious also that, when it comes to reports from the NI Audit Office, the general principle is that departments should restrict comments until the Assembly process is complete.\n\nIt is now for the Public Accounts Committee to consider the report’s findings and to consider whether it wishes the Departmental and NIEA Accounting Officers to give evidence and it is important that I abide by the Department of Finance’s guidance that no comment should be made that might pre-empt or pre-judge PAC consideration.\n\nWaste crime poses a serious threat to our environment, to public health and to the integrity of our waste management systems. It also undermines law-abiding operators and damages public confidence.\n\nStrengthening our environmental governance structures is a top priority for me and I recently took receipt of and published the interim report from the independent panel that I set up to bring forward proposals for a more robust model of environmental governance.\n\nWhether within existing structures or new structures, tackling waste crime is also a priority for me and for the NIEA and we will continue to work hard on both prevention and enforcement, with a clear focus on delivering results.","answerHtml":"I welcome the publication of this report and I can provide assurance that its recommendations will be considered very carefully by officials in the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and the Department.
I am conscious also that, when it comes to reports from the NI Audit Office, the general principle is that departments should restrict comments until the Assembly process is complete.
It is now for the Public Accounts Committee to consider the report’s findings and to consider whether it wishes the Departmental and NIEA Accounting Officers to give evidence and it is important that I abide by the Department of Finance’s guidance that no comment should be made that might pre-empt or pre-judge PAC consideration.
Waste crime poses a serious threat to our environment, to public health and to the integrity of our waste management systems. It also undermines law-abiding operators and damages public confidence.
Strengthening our environmental governance structures is a top priority for me and I recently took receipt of and published the interim report from the independent panel that I set up to bring forward proposals for a more robust model of environmental governance.
Whether within existing structures or new structures, tackling waste crime is also a priority for me and for the NIEA and we will continue to work hard on both prevention and enforcement, with a clear focus on delivering results.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031037%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449147"}},{"id":"449146","reference":"AQW 31036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-12","answerBy":"2025-09-29","answered":"2025-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the number of livestock worrying incidents recorded, in each of the last three years; and (ii) what measures are in place to support farmers affected.","answerText":"Councils are responsible under The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 (the Order) for investigating incidents of livestock worrying. The Department collates this data from all 11 councils and publishes on our website. Table A sets out the number of recorded livestock worrying incidents for each of the last three years up to March 2025.\n\nI take the matter of livestock worrying very seriously and my Department continues to remind dog owners of the need to keep their dogs under control around livestock. Farmers are also encouraged to report all incidences of livestock worrying to their local council dog wardens for investigation. Additionally, my Department has produced specific guidance on the issue which is available on the DAERA website.\n\nTable A: Number of incidents of livestock worrying recorded in last three years\n\nYear\tNumber of incidents of livestock worrying recorded by councils\nApril 24 – March 25\t115\nApril 23 – March 24\t147\nApril 22 – March 23\t122","answerHtml":"Councils are responsible under The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 (the Order) for investigating incidents of livestock worrying. The Department collates this data from all 11 councils and publishes on our website. Table A sets out the number of recorded livestock worrying incidents for each of the last three years up to March 2025.
I take the matter of livestock worrying very seriously and my Department continues to remind dog owners of the need to keep their dogs under control around livestock. Farmers are also encouraged to report all incidences of livestock worrying to their local council dog wardens for investigation. Additionally, my Department has produced specific guidance on the issue which is available on the DAERA website.
Table A: Number of incidents of livestock worrying recorded in last three years
| Year | Number of incidents of livestock worrying recorded by councils |
| April 24 – March 25 | 115 |
| April 23 – March 24 | 147 |
| April 22 – March 23 | 122 |
Rural crime, particularly the theft of farmed animals, is a direct threat to the livelihood of our farmers and to the integrity of the traceability system which is vital in providing assurance on the safety, integrity and quality of our food. My Department takes this threat very seriously. Officials from my Department’s Veterinary Service Animal Health Group sit on the Rural Crime Partnership forum. Rural Crime Partnership is a valuable networking, information sharing and problem-solving forum established to help address rural agri-crime. The Department of Justice, Police Service of Northern Ireland, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships, Ulster Farmers’ Union, National Farmers’ Union Mutual, Federation of Small Businesses and the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster are also represented on the Rural Crime Partnership.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449145"}},{"id":"449018","reference":"AQW 30941/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-26","answered":"2025-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) whether she will review current law to ensure that perpetrators of domestic abuse can be held criminally responsible, where their actions result in a victim’s suicide; and (ii) to outline what consideration she has given to creating a specific offence of causing or encouraging suicide through coercive control or abuse.","answerText":"This is an extremely serious and sensitive issue. The devastating impact that domestic abuse can have on victims including the potential for it to contribute to suicide, cannot and should not be underestimated.\n\nThe introduction of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 was a milestone in protecting people from violent and abusive behaviours. The 2021 Act has changed the way in which the criminal justice system views and responds to domestic abuse. Protection is no longer limited to physical abuse, and the legislation criminalises a course of abusive behaviour including controlling or coercive behaviour, which may be psychological, emotional or financial in nature.\n\nSection 15 of the 2021 Act provides that any offence (apart from the domestic abuse offence) may be aggravated because it involves domestic abuse. Where the offence as well as the aggravation is proved, the court must take the aggravation into account when determining sentence. In principle, this could apply to manslaughter where it was established that someone had died by suicide as a result of domestic abuse.\n\nI believe that the current legislation provides the courts with sufficient powers to hold perpetrators of domestic abuse to account. However ending domestic abuse in all its forms remains a key priority for my Department and I will continue to keep this under review, informed by learning and other relevant developments in neighbouring jurisdictions.\n\nThere is currently no specific offence of causing or encouraging suicide specifically through domestic abuse including coercive control in any part of the UK; however, under sections 13 and 13A of the Criminal Justice Act (NI) 1966 (the 1966 Act), it is an offence to encourage or assist with the suicide or attempted suicide of another person, or to intend to do so; and s.13A further provides that this includes where a person has encouraged or assisted by threatening or otherwise putting pressure on another person to commit or attempt suicide.","answerHtml":"This is an extremely serious and sensitive issue. The devastating impact that domestic abuse can have on victims including the potential for it to contribute to suicide, cannot and should not be underestimated.
The introduction of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 was a milestone in protecting people from violent and abusive behaviours. The 2021 Act has changed the way in which the criminal justice system views and responds to domestic abuse. Protection is no longer limited to physical abuse, and the legislation criminalises a course of abusive behaviour including controlling or coercive behaviour, which may be psychological, emotional or financial in nature.
Section 15 of the 2021 Act provides that any offence (apart from the domestic abuse offence) may be aggravated because it involves domestic abuse. Where the offence as well as the aggravation is proved, the court must take the aggravation into account when determining sentence. In principle, this could apply to manslaughter where it was established that someone had died by suicide as a result of domestic abuse.
I believe that the current legislation provides the courts with sufficient powers to hold perpetrators of domestic abuse to account. However ending domestic abuse in all its forms remains a key priority for my Department and I will continue to keep this under review, informed by learning and other relevant developments in neighbouring jurisdictions.
There is currently no specific offence of causing or encouraging suicide specifically through domestic abuse including coercive control in any part of the UK; however, under sections 13 and 13A of the Criminal Justice Act (NI) 1966 (the 1966 Act), it is an offence to encourage or assist with the suicide or attempted suicide of another person, or to intend to do so; and s.13A further provides that this includes where a person has encouraged or assisted by threatening or otherwise putting pressure on another person to commit or attempt suicide.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030941%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449018"}},{"id":"449017","reference":"AQW 30940/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-26","answered":"2025-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline (i) how the recommendations from Domestic Homicide Reviews are being implemented across relevant agencies; and (ii) what monitoring is in place to ensure they lead to change.","answerText":"I recognise that the learning arising from each Domestic Homicide Review (DHR) is invaluable, and I acknowledge the need for DHR recommendations to be effectively implemented.\n\nEach DHR report includes agency recommendations, where the individual agencies involved have identified specific areas where their practices and responses could be improved. Each individual agency is responsible for implementing the recommendations directed to them and for ensuring that the necessary changes to their policies and practices are taken forward.\n\nIn addition to agency-specific recommendations, each DHR report also includes overarching recommendations made by the Independent Chair and multi-agency Panel. Given the complexities involved in such cases, these overarching recommendations are often made on a multi-agency basis and often fall to a number of agencies, working in partnership, to implement across many sectors including Health, Justice, Education and Housing.\n\nMy Department is not responsible for overseeing how recommendations outside of the justice sphere are implemented; that falls to each of the agencies respectively. However, it receives regular updates from agencies on progress against each action, in order to ensure that the multi-agency DHR Senior Oversight Forum is able to track and monitor progress against implementation.\n\nWhere recommendations have been made for my Department, these have been completed or are in progress and expected to be completed in the near future.\n\nHowever, there has been some delay to the implementation of overarching, multi-agency recommendations. In order to address this, a multi-agency working group, chaired by PSNI, has been established to drive implementation of those recommendations which cut across organisational boundaries. This group brings together representatives from the key statutory partners to ensure that shared challenges are addressed collectively and that cross-cutting recommendations are implemented in a consistent and coordinated way. The group also provides a mechanism for monitoring progress and ensuring that the learning from Reviews is embedded across the system as a whole.","answerHtml":"I recognise that the learning arising from each Domestic Homicide Review (DHR) is invaluable, and I acknowledge the need for DHR recommendations to be effectively implemented.
Each DHR report includes agency recommendations, where the individual agencies involved have identified specific areas where their practices and responses could be improved. Each individual agency is responsible for implementing the recommendations directed to them and for ensuring that the necessary changes to their policies and practices are taken forward.
In addition to agency-specific recommendations, each DHR report also includes overarching recommendations made by the Independent Chair and multi-agency Panel. Given the complexities involved in such cases, these overarching recommendations are often made on a multi-agency basis and often fall to a number of agencies, working in partnership, to implement across many sectors including Health, Justice, Education and Housing.
My Department is not responsible for overseeing how recommendations outside of the justice sphere are implemented; that falls to each of the agencies respectively. However, it receives regular updates from agencies on progress against each action, in order to ensure that the multi-agency DHR Senior Oversight Forum is able to track and monitor progress against implementation.
Where recommendations have been made for my Department, these have been completed or are in progress and expected to be completed in the near future.
However, there has been some delay to the implementation of overarching, multi-agency recommendations. In order to address this, a multi-agency working group, chaired by PSNI, has been established to drive implementation of those recommendations which cut across organisational boundaries. This group brings together representatives from the key statutory partners to ensure that shared challenges are addressed collectively and that cross-cutting recommendations are implemented in a consistent and coordinated way. The group also provides a mechanism for monitoring progress and ensuring that the learning from Reviews is embedded across the system as a whole.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030940%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449017"}},{"id":"449016","reference":"AQW 30939/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-26","answered":"2025-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) how the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy is being implemented in respect of cases where victims of domestic abuse die by suicide; and (ii) what steps the Executive Office is taking to ensure cross-departmental learning and prevention in such cases.","answerText":"The Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Strategic Framework focuses on working better together, through a coordinated approach. This aligns with the Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Strategy led by the Departments of Justice and Health which recognises the significant impact that domestic abuse has on victims.\n\nThe introduction of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 has changed the way the criminal justice system views and responds to domestic abuse. Protection is no longer limited to physical abuse, and the legislation criminalises a course of abusive behaviour including controlling or coercive behaviour, which may be psychological, emotional or financial in nature.\n\nDomestic homicide reviews (DHRs) are in place to ensure that there is system-wide learning to improve the overall response to domestic abuse. DHRs in Northern Ireland do not currently extend to cases where a victim of domestic abuse dies by suicide as a consequence of that abuse.\n\nThe Department of Justice has indicated the intention to expand the remit of DHRs, in due course, to ensure that Departments and Agencies are able to learn from such tragic circumstances in order to safeguard other victims. However these cases are, by their nature, highly complex and it will be important that any policy around domestic suicides is properly informed and fully scoped.","answerHtml":"The Ending Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) Strategic Framework focuses on working better together, through a coordinated approach. This aligns with the Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Strategy led by the Departments of Justice and Health which recognises the significant impact that domestic abuse has on victims.
The introduction of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 has changed the way the criminal justice system views and responds to domestic abuse. Protection is no longer limited to physical abuse, and the legislation criminalises a course of abusive behaviour including controlling or coercive behaviour, which may be psychological, emotional or financial in nature.
Domestic homicide reviews (DHRs) are in place to ensure that there is system-wide learning to improve the overall response to domestic abuse. DHRs in Northern Ireland do not currently extend to cases where a victim of domestic abuse dies by suicide as a consequence of that abuse.
The Department of Justice has indicated the intention to expand the remit of DHRs, in due course, to ensure that Departments and Agencies are able to learn from such tragic circumstances in order to safeguard other victims. However these cases are, by their nature, highly complex and it will be important that any policy around domestic suicides is properly informed and fully scoped.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030939%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449016","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449016"}},{"id":"449015","reference":"AQW 30938/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-26","answered":"2025-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how his Department records suspected suicides linked to domestic abuse; and (ii) whether he intends to improve data collection in this area.","answerText":"The Department of Health does not have responsibility for the recording of deaths in Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA)which falls under the remit of the Department of Finance are responsible for the collation of death statistics. The outcome of the coronial investigation, including the formulation of the cause of death, the recorded study category and the NISRA coding process reflects the statutory focus on how the deceased died, rather than why they died. Any decisions around enhancing data collection, for example through academic research, would require consideration by the Coroners Service.\n\nThe Coroner, an independent judicial office holder, investigates unexpected, sudden, violent, or unnatural deaths to establish the cause of death and investigates based on the individual circumstances of each death. Each case reported to the Coroner is considered on a case-by-case basis. The Coroner has a statutory obligation to determine, as far as is possible, on the balance of probabilities, the medical cause of death and the four statutory questions, namely who the deceased was, when and where they died and how the deceased came by their death, taking into account all relevant, available material. Coronial findings are evidence-based at the civil standard, not on the basis of suspicions.\n\nAn inquest will be held where the Coroner considers it is necessary. The Coroner is legally required to focus on answering the four statutory questions, including ‘how’ rather than ‘why’ the deceased person died (albeit all relevant prevailing circumstances including mental health, situational stressors and any other relevant factors may be determined by the Coroner to fall within the scope of the inquest).","answerHtml":"The Department of Health does not have responsibility for the recording of deaths in Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA)which falls under the remit of the Department of Finance are responsible for the collation of death statistics. The outcome of the coronial investigation, including the formulation of the cause of death, the recorded study category and the NISRA coding process reflects the statutory focus on how the deceased died, rather than why they died. Any decisions around enhancing data collection, for example through academic research, would require consideration by the Coroners Service.
The Coroner, an independent judicial office holder, investigates unexpected, sudden, violent, or unnatural deaths to establish the cause of death and investigates based on the individual circumstances of each death. Each case reported to the Coroner is considered on a case-by-case basis. The Coroner has a statutory obligation to determine, as far as is possible, on the balance of probabilities, the medical cause of death and the four statutory questions, namely who the deceased was, when and where they died and how the deceased came by their death, taking into account all relevant, available material. Coronial findings are evidence-based at the civil standard, not on the basis of suspicions.
An inquest will be held where the Coroner considers it is necessary. The Coroner is legally required to focus on answering the four statutory questions, including ‘how’ rather than ‘why’ the deceased person died (albeit all relevant prevailing circumstances including mental health, situational stressors and any other relevant factors may be determined by the Coroner to fall within the scope of the inquest).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030938%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449015","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449015"}},{"id":"449014","reference":"AQW 30937/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-11","answerBy":"2025-09-26","answered":"2025-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he will take to ensure that suicides related to domestic abuse are incorporated into suicide prevention policy and strategy.","answerText":"During the recently completed review process of the Protect Life 2 Action Plan the principles for the strategy were re-evaluated and feedback from a wide variety of stakeholders, including those impacted by domestic violence was acknowledged and incorporated.\n\nThe new Action Plan includes a specific action 2.2, to implement place or setting based strategies to effectively raise awareness of available support, both universally and through targeted outreach; tailored to the needs of families, communities and groups of interest. This action contains a deliverable around support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.\n\nThe Public Health Agency also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of the 2025/26 programme 7 projects supporting those impacted by domestic abuse have been funded. There may be potential for further targeting future PHA small grants opportunities on activities focusing on domestic violence suicide prevention and support. However, I must stress that full delivery of all the actions within Protect Life 2 will only be possible subject to the necessary funding being secured.","answerHtml":"During the recently completed review process of the Protect Life 2 Action Plan the principles for the strategy were re-evaluated and feedback from a wide variety of stakeholders, including those impacted by domestic violence was acknowledged and incorporated.
The new Action Plan includes a specific action 2.2, to implement place or setting based strategies to effectively raise awareness of available support, both universally and through targeted outreach; tailored to the needs of families, communities and groups of interest. This action contains a deliverable around support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
The Public Health Agency also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of the 2025/26 programme 7 projects supporting those impacted by domestic abuse have been funded. There may be potential for further targeting future PHA small grants opportunities on activities focusing on domestic violence suicide prevention and support. However, I must stress that full delivery of all the actions within Protect Life 2 will only be possible subject to the necessary funding being secured.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030937%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=449014","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=449014"}},{"id":"448820","reference":"AQW 30803/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any financial support his Department provides to community-based and voluntary organisations that deliver bereavement services for children affected by suicide.","answerText":"The recently published Protect Life 2 Implementation Plan contains a specific action, 7.2, in relation to the provision of a consistent, compassionate approach to supporting those bereaved/ affected by suicide. The development of recommendations for a regionally consistent postvention service for adults and the development, implementation and evaluation of a regional postvention service for under 18 year olds, are included as deliverables under this action. Scoping for this service is at an advanced stage. I must stress that full delivery of all of the actions and deliverables in the Protect Life 2 Action and Implementation Plans will be subject to the necessary funding being secured.\n\nFunding for bereavement services is currently provided under Protect Life 2 as follows:\n\nOrganisation\tDescription\tFinance\nBarnardo’s NI\tChildren & Young People Bereavement by Suicide Support\t£347,616 for 12 months (which has been pro-rated to £260,712 for 9 months due to ongoing tendering process.)\nPIPS Hope & Support\tPIPS - Bereavement Support Services\nRange of services which includes the provision of counselling / art therapy sessions for children and young people. It is not possible to quantify the exact investment in children’s services.\t£45,882\nExtern\tFamily Support and Suicide Prevention Response Services & Crisis Response\nProvide a range of activities for individuals bereaved through suicide and includes 1:1 support for young people up to 25 years old.\t£223,501\nLighthouse\tLighthouse Family Support Services\nProvides 114 hours of Art and Personal Development for children and young people bereaved through suicide.\t£3,990\nAction Mental Health\tCommunity Counselling\nProvides counselling to individuals bereaved by suicide which may include children and young people. It is not possible to quantify the exact investment in children’s services.\t£288,302\n\nThe Public Health Agency also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of that programme four projects supporting children and families bereaved by suicide have been funded.\n\nOrganisation\tDescription\tFinance\nYouthlife Inspires\tProviding young people who have been bereaved with confidence building and inspiring projects\t£5,000\nCircle of Friends - Carers Support Group\tProvision of creative programmes for individuals who have lost family members through suicide, substance use, road traffic accidents and family breakdown.\t£4,365\nRecharge CIC\tThe provision of creative programmes for individuals bereaved through suicide or living with mental ill health.\t£5,000\nCruse Bereavement Support\tVolunteer Bereavement Training to increase bereavement support within the SEHSCT Area\t£4,473","answerHtml":"The recently published Protect Life 2 Implementation Plan contains a specific action, 7.2, in relation to the provision of a consistent, compassionate approach to supporting those bereaved/ affected by suicide. The development of recommendations for a regionally consistent postvention service for adults and the development, implementation and evaluation of a regional postvention service for under 18 year olds, are included as deliverables under this action. Scoping for this service is at an advanced stage. I must stress that full delivery of all of the actions and deliverables in the Protect Life 2 Action and Implementation Plans will be subject to the necessary funding being secured.
Funding for bereavement services is currently provided under Protect Life 2 as follows:
| Organisation | Description | Finance |
| Barnardo’s NI | Children & Young People Bereavement by Suicide Support | £347,616 for 12 months (which has been pro-rated to £260,712 for 9 months due to ongoing tendering process.) |
| PIPS Hope & Support | PIPS - Bereavement Support Services Range of services which includes the provision of counselling / art therapy sessions for children and young people. It is not possible to quantify the exact investment in children’s services. | £45,882 |
| Extern | Family Support and Suicide Prevention Response Services & Crisis Response Provide a range of activities for individuals bereaved through suicide and includes 1:1 support for young people up to 25 years old. | £223,501 |
| Lighthouse | Lighthouse Family Support Services Provides 114 hours of Art and Personal Development for children and young people bereaved through suicide. | £3,990 |
| Action Mental Health | Community Counselling Provides counselling to individuals bereaved by suicide which may include children and young people. It is not possible to quantify the exact investment in children’s services. | £288,302 |
The Public Health Agency also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of that programme four projects supporting children and families bereaved by suicide have been funded.
| Organisation | Description | Finance |
| Youthlife Inspires | Providing young people who have been bereaved with confidence building and inspiring projects | £5,000 |
| Circle of Friends - Carers Support Group | Provision of creative programmes for individuals who have lost family members through suicide, substance use, road traffic accidents and family breakdown. | £4,365 |
| Recharge CIC | The provision of creative programmes for individuals bereaved through suicide or living with mental ill health. | £5,000 |
| Cruse Bereavement Support | Volunteer Bereavement Training to increase bereavement support within the SEHSCT Area | £4,473 |
Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.
The components of the proposed regional mental health crisis service are: accessing mental health crisis services, primary care and interagency partnership, community crisis service, mental health liaison service and crisis resolution home treatment.
Future state work has commenced across lifespan services including scoping what a good service would look like. A draft Regional Mental Health Crisis Service Lifespan Pathway has been presented to relevant stakeholders. Stakeholders have provided feedback on the draft pathway and how best to take forward the next phase of work of the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service model.
A Mental Health Liaison and Crisis Response Home Treatment Care Network has recently been formed which includes all key stakeholders. This Care Network’s aim is to ensure consistent evidence-based practice, equitable access to care and improve service user outcomes.
As an alternative to ED attendance two initiatives were piloted for individuals with mental health needs but not requiring acute physical care. Firstly, The Multi Agency Triage Teams (MATT); which is currently only operational in two Trust areas with PSNI being one of the stakeholders within MATT. Secondly, The NI Ambulance Service pilot initiative Hear and Treat (SEHSCT area); which includes mental health professionals in their control rooms. These two services offer a suitable alternative to transporting patients with mental health issues to busy Emergency Departments. The Department needs to await the receipt of the evaluations to consider how best to proceed with these regionally.
In order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service, additional funding will be required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030802%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448819"}},{"id":"448818","reference":"AQW 30801/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures in place to ensure families and children bereaved by suicide can access support, particularly in rural constituencies such as East Londonderry.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030801%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448818"}},{"id":"448817","reference":"AQW 30800/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department is addressing the link between domestic abuse and suicide within service provision.","answerText":"The new Protect Life 2 Strategy Action Plan includes a specific action 2.2, to implement place or setting based strategies to effectively raise awareness of available support, both universally and through targeted outreach; tailored to the needs of families, communities and groups of interest. This action contains a deliverable around support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.\n\nThe Public Health Agency also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of the 2025/26 programme 7 projects supporting those impacted by domestic abuse have been funded. There may be potential for further targeting future PHA small grants opportunities on activities focusing on domestic violence suicide prevention and support. However, I must stress that full delivery of all the actions within Protect Life 2 will only be possible subject to the necessary funding being secured.\n\nSupporting victims to disclose domestic abuse in the first place will help identify the appropriate supports required for the individual and may prevent further harm / suicide.\n\nRoutine Enquiry involves asking all women who are accessing services, regardless of whether there are any indicators or suspicions, about abuse, so that they can be offered supportive interventions including information, safety planning and referral. In Northern Ireland this approach has been established across Maternity, Health Visiting and Family Nurse Partnership Services.\n\nThe PHA fund Lifeline, Northern Ireland’s crisis response helpline for people experiencing distress or despair or who are suicidal. Victims of domestic abuse can avail of the service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year and provides compassionate, trauma-informed support.","answerHtml":"The new Protect Life 2 Strategy Action Plan includes a specific action 2.2, to implement place or setting based strategies to effectively raise awareness of available support, both universally and through targeted outreach; tailored to the needs of families, communities and groups of interest. This action contains a deliverable around support for victims of domestic and sexual violence.
The Public Health Agency also fund a small grant programme throughout Northern Ireland. As part of the 2025/26 programme 7 projects supporting those impacted by domestic abuse have been funded. There may be potential for further targeting future PHA small grants opportunities on activities focusing on domestic violence suicide prevention and support. However, I must stress that full delivery of all the actions within Protect Life 2 will only be possible subject to the necessary funding being secured.
Supporting victims to disclose domestic abuse in the first place will help identify the appropriate supports required for the individual and may prevent further harm / suicide.
Routine Enquiry involves asking all women who are accessing services, regardless of whether there are any indicators or suspicions, about abuse, so that they can be offered supportive interventions including information, safety planning and referral. In Northern Ireland this approach has been established across Maternity, Health Visiting and Family Nurse Partnership Services.
The PHA fund Lifeline, Northern Ireland’s crisis response helpline for people experiencing distress or despair or who are suicidal. Victims of domestic abuse can avail of the service 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, every day of the year and provides compassionate, trauma-informed support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030800%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448817"}},{"id":"448816","reference":"AQW 30799/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-10","answerBy":"2025-09-25","answered":"2025-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his Department’s plans to establish a dedicated crisis service under the Mental Health Strategy 2021–2031.","answerText":"Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.\n\nThe components of the proposed regional mental health crisis service are: accessing mental health crisis services, primary care and interagency partnership, community crisis service, mental health liaison service and crisis resolution home treatment.\n\nFuture state work has commenced across lifespan services including scoping what a good service would look like. A draft Regional Mental Health Crisis Service Lifespan Pathway has been presented to relevant stakeholders. Stakeholders have provided feedback on the draft pathway and how best to take forward the next phase of work of the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service model.\n\nA Mental Health Liaison and Crisis Response Home Treatment Care Network has recently been established which includes all key stakeholders. This Care Network’s aim is to ensure consistent evidence-based practice, equitable access to care and improve service user outcomes.\n\nIn order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure a more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.\n\nIn line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.","answerHtml":"Implementing the new Regional Mental Health Crisis Service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, under actions 12 and 27. My Departmental officials and the Public Health Agency are working in partnership to deliver on both of these actions to develop a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service for all citizens of Northern Ireland.
The components of the proposed regional mental health crisis service are: accessing mental health crisis services, primary care and interagency partnership, community crisis service, mental health liaison service and crisis resolution home treatment.
Future state work has commenced across lifespan services including scoping what a good service would look like. A draft Regional Mental Health Crisis Service Lifespan Pathway has been presented to relevant stakeholders. Stakeholders have provided feedback on the draft pathway and how best to take forward the next phase of work of the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service model.
A Mental Health Liaison and Crisis Response Home Treatment Care Network has recently been established which includes all key stakeholders. This Care Network’s aim is to ensure consistent evidence-based practice, equitable access to care and improve service user outcomes.
In order to develop and roll out the Regional Mental Health Crisis Service, additional funding will be required. My officials within the Department are working in partnership to prioritise areas for next steps. This will include standardisation of services and levelling up and roll out of service areas across the region, to ensure a more equitable provision to those in need across the lifespan.
In line with the usual process for commissioning of services, any decision to commission mental health crisis services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030799%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448816"}},{"id":"448656","reference":"AQW 30674/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-09","answerBy":"2025-09-24","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made of the impact of the EU Treatment Scheme on reducing elective surgery waiting lists.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030674%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448656"}},{"id":"448655","reference":"AQW 30673/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-09","answerBy":"2025-09-24","answered":"2025-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the mechanisms his Department has explored to improve the affordability of the EU Treatment Scheme for patients who cannot meet the upfront costs, such as alternative reimbursement arrangements.","answerText":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.\n\nThe Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.","answerHtml":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.
The Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030673%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448655"}},{"id":"448654","reference":"AQW 30672/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-09","answerBy":"2025-09-24","answered":"2025-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will issue guidance to patients applying to the EU Treatment Scheme on how to identify and select appropriate and accredited healthcare providers in the European Union.","answerText":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.\n\nThe Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.","answerHtml":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.
The Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030672%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448654"}},{"id":"448653","reference":"AQW 30671/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-09","answerBy":"2025-09-24","answered":"2025-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline how his Department is communicating the application process for the EU Treatment Scheme to patients and to healthcare providers who may be supporting them.","answerText":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.\n\nThe Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.","answerHtml":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.
The Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030671%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448653"}},{"id":"448652","reference":"AQW 30670/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-09","answerBy":"2025-09-24","answered":"2025-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps his Department has taken to ensure that the application process for the EU Treatment Scheme is accessible to patients who may not have reliable digital access or confidence in using online systems.","answerText":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.\n\nThe Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.\n\nThe Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.","answerHtml":"The Department ensured to establish a central information hub as part of the Waiting List Scheme launch. The online information hub provides all necessary procedural guidance, parameters of the scheme and key performance indicators for application submission and approval processes. Timelines have been clearly articulated to help support applicants across the application journey with a reinforcement that this readily accessible information hub provides all necessary information. This hub managed by a dedicated Scheme team who are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 4pm. A dedicated helpline has been set up to provide guidance on the process from start to finish, assisting with any and all ad hoc questions prospective applicants may have. Applicants can seek assistance through telephone, email and were appropriate face to face scheduled assistance.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme was launched on 2 June 2025 with Phase one covering the Republic of Ireland. Phase two, launched 15 September 2025, extends access to the wider European Union. Through a well-established communications and engagement plan, details of the Scheme, both Phase one and Phase two launches, were communicated to both internal and external stakeholders inclusive of HSC Trusts, General Practitioners and other professional bodies.
The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is a patient led Scheme. In choosing to arrange healthcare themselves, the patient is effectively stepping outside of the HSC system. At this point, the patient is taking individual responsibility for ensuring that the service they obtain is appropriate and safe within the laws of ROI or EU (not under UK legislation). The Department of Health under this scheme will not be formally commissioning services from providers abroad and therefore will not be liable for the outcome of the treatment provided.
The Waiting list Scheme is a reimbursement only scheme and one of many initiatives I have in place to tackle the overall waits within Northern Ireland. Discussions regarding alternative mechanisms to pay for treatment had been tabled, however, in the context of deliverability for patients and under requirement and readiness to go live by June 2025, a reimbursement scheme similar to that of previous Republic of Ireland reimbursement Scheme and the EU Cross Border Directive was agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030670%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448652"}},{"id":"448441","reference":"AQW 30553/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department is addressing barriers to police officers accessing statutory mental health services, including stigma and delays in referral pathways.","answerText":"The Department of Health acknowledges the significant pressures faced by police officers and the potential impact on their mental health and well-being due to the nature of the work they undertake. The Department is committed therefore to ensuring timely and appropriate access to statutory mental health services when required.\n\nWhen any citizen requires mental health support there are a range of services which can provide assessment, formulation and intervention as appropriate to the presentation. These include Community Mental Health Teams, Psychological Therapy Services and the Regional Trauma Network Team in each Trust. These services are applicable to people with a potential diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),\n\nPsychological services within Adult Mental Health HSCT services provide psychological therapies for all adults who require this service. Referrals to psychological therapy services are prioritised based on clinical risk and need. These services are skilled in delivering trauma informed interventions and specific psychological therapies appropriate to adults across a range of backgrounds and experience.\n\nThe Regional Trauma Network, overseen jointly by my Department and The Executive Office, adopts an innovative approach working collaboratively with statutory, community and voluntary sector organisations to provide specialist trauma care to individuals.\n\nPhase 1 focuses on victims and survivors of the Troubles and formally commenced on 1 April 2023 for a period of at least 3 years. Phase 1 is subject to evaluation to consider any unmet needs or ongoing needs, with lessons learned from the evaluation informing the roll out of Phase 2. The Phase 1 evaluation is scheduled to commence in April 2026. Community and Voluntary agencies also provide a wide range of interventions and support for individuals who experience trauma.\n\nThere is currently limited data on the prevalence of PTSD in Northern Ireland. However, I am mindful that there may be unmet need in this area with people not presenting to services or being within services but not yet having received a diagnosis of PTSD.\n\nI remain committed to the continued integration of a trauma informed approach throughout my Department’s work and to ensure that people who require our services receive timely access and appropriate intervention.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health acknowledges the significant pressures faced by police officers and the potential impact on their mental health and well-being due to the nature of the work they undertake. The Department is committed therefore to ensuring timely and appropriate access to statutory mental health services when required.
When any citizen requires mental health support there are a range of services which can provide assessment, formulation and intervention as appropriate to the presentation. These include Community Mental Health Teams, Psychological Therapy Services and the Regional Trauma Network Team in each Trust. These services are applicable to people with a potential diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD),
Psychological services within Adult Mental Health HSCT services provide psychological therapies for all adults who require this service. Referrals to psychological therapy services are prioritised based on clinical risk and need. These services are skilled in delivering trauma informed interventions and specific psychological therapies appropriate to adults across a range of backgrounds and experience.
The Regional Trauma Network, overseen jointly by my Department and The Executive Office, adopts an innovative approach working collaboratively with statutory, community and voluntary sector organisations to provide specialist trauma care to individuals.
Phase 1 focuses on victims and survivors of the Troubles and formally commenced on 1 April 2023 for a period of at least 3 years. Phase 1 is subject to evaluation to consider any unmet needs or ongoing needs, with lessons learned from the evaluation informing the roll out of Phase 2. The Phase 1 evaluation is scheduled to commence in April 2026. Community and Voluntary agencies also provide a wide range of interventions and support for individuals who experience trauma.
There is currently limited data on the prevalence of PTSD in Northern Ireland. However, I am mindful that there may be unmet need in this area with people not presenting to services or being within services but not yet having received a diagnosis of PTSD.
I remain committed to the continued integration of a trauma informed approach throughout my Department’s work and to ensure that people who require our services receive timely access and appropriate intervention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030553%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448441"}},{"id":"448440","reference":"AQW 30552/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what assessment her Department has made of the link between police officer (i) sickness absence rates; (ii) recruitment and retention challenges; and (ii) public confidence in policing.","answerText":"The management of resources, including staffing, within the PSNI remains a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I respect the Chief Constable’s operational independence and the role of the Policing Board; therefore, it would not be appropriate for me to make an assessment of matters relating to police sick absence rates.\n\nI am encouraged by the results of the recent Northern Ireland Safe Community Telephone Survey, published in July, that confidence in the police and police accountability arrangements remains high.\n\nI am committed to working to ensure that public confidence in policing is not eroded by issues relating to officer numbers and the additional pressure and responsibility that this places on fewer officers. I also believe that there is a role for us all to play in ensuring that confidence in policing is not damaged by unsubstantiated and negative rhetoric about the PSNI and wider justice system’s performance.\n\nMy department has regular engagement with the PSNI on these, and other issues and I will continue to work with the Chief Constable to ensure we have a police service that is properly resourced in all aspects for the challenges it faces.","answerHtml":"The management of resources, including staffing, within the PSNI remains a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I respect the Chief Constable’s operational independence and the role of the Policing Board; therefore, it would not be appropriate for me to make an assessment of matters relating to police sick absence rates.
I am encouraged by the results of the recent Northern Ireland Safe Community Telephone Survey, published in July, that confidence in the police and police accountability arrangements remains high.
I am committed to working to ensure that public confidence in policing is not eroded by issues relating to officer numbers and the additional pressure and responsibility that this places on fewer officers. I also believe that there is a role for us all to play in ensuring that confidence in policing is not damaged by unsubstantiated and negative rhetoric about the PSNI and wider justice system’s performance.
My department has regular engagement with the PSNI on these, and other issues and I will continue to work with the Chief Constable to ensure we have a police service that is properly resourced in all aspects for the challenges it faces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030552%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448440"}},{"id":"448439","reference":"AQW 30551/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail how her Department is supporting the PSNI to address high sickness absence rates, alongside challenges in recruitment and retention.","answerText":"I have regular discussions with the Chief Constable regarding the pressures facing the PSNI, including the challenges in managing sick absence, and the pressure this creates in delivering effective policing for our communities. However, the management of staff and sickness absence is primarily the responsibility of the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Policing Board for such operational matters.\n\nI have confidence that it is a priority for the Chief Constable, and I support the efforts he is making to address the issues around absence management, including the development of an in-house mental health service for officers and staff and the introduction of a new absence management policy.\n\nI am also fully committed to supporting the PSNI in order to secure adequate funding for policing in Northern Ireland to support recruitment and retention and avoid discouragement among officers who continue to perform a difficult role in challenging circumstances. The PSNI Recovery Business Case has been approved on value for money grounds and I continue to engage regularly with the Department of Finance and wider Executive on the funding needed to deliver it in full. All parties around the Executive table have said that policing is a priority and it is vital that that commitment is matched by the funding the PSNI needs.","answerHtml":"I have regular discussions with the Chief Constable regarding the pressures facing the PSNI, including the challenges in managing sick absence, and the pressure this creates in delivering effective policing for our communities. However, the management of staff and sickness absence is primarily the responsibility of the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Policing Board for such operational matters.
I have confidence that it is a priority for the Chief Constable, and I support the efforts he is making to address the issues around absence management, including the development of an in-house mental health service for officers and staff and the introduction of a new absence management policy.
I am also fully committed to supporting the PSNI in order to secure adequate funding for policing in Northern Ireland to support recruitment and retention and avoid discouragement among officers who continue to perform a difficult role in challenging circumstances. The PSNI Recovery Business Case has been approved on value for money grounds and I continue to engage regularly with the Department of Finance and wider Executive on the funding needed to deliver it in full. All parties around the Executive table have said that policing is a priority and it is vital that that commitment is matched by the funding the PSNI needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030551%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448439"}},{"id":"448438","reference":"AQW 30550/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail how her Department monitors the effectiveness of the PSNI’s occupational health and wellbeing provision, given the level of public funding provided.","answerText":"The provision of the PSNI’s Occupational Health and Wellbeing service is a matter for the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. It would not, therefore, be appropriate for me to monitor the effectiveness of this service.\n\nThe Department does, however, fund the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust (PRRT) to provide police officers and former police officers and their families with clinical and support services. This is funded from the grant in aid awarded to PRRT and the effectiveness of the work of the PRRT is monitored by the Department.","answerHtml":"The provision of the PSNI’s Occupational Health and Wellbeing service is a matter for the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. It would not, therefore, be appropriate for me to monitor the effectiveness of this service.
The Department does, however, fund the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust (PRRT) to provide police officers and former police officers and their families with clinical and support services. This is funded from the grant in aid awarded to PRRT and the effectiveness of the work of the PRRT is monitored by the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030550%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448438"}},{"id":"448437","reference":"AQW 30549/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-08","answerBy":"2025-09-23","answered":"2025-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail how her Department (i) ensures that the PSNI is adequately resourced to deliver statutory post-incident debriefs, following a death or serious injury after police contact; and (ii) works with the (a) Policing Board; and (b) the Police Ombudsman, to monitor delivery.","answerText":"The prioritisation of policing resources, including the delivery of statutory post-incident debriefs following a death or serious incident, is an operational matter for the PSNI which is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. As I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the PSNI and the oversight role of Policing Board, it would not be appropriate for me to comment.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to raise this matter directly with the Chief Constable.","answerHtml":"The prioritisation of policing resources, including the delivery of statutory post-incident debriefs following a death or serious incident, is an operational matter for the PSNI which is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. As I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the PSNI and the oversight role of Policing Board, it would not be appropriate for me to comment.
You may, therefore, wish to raise this matter directly with the Chief Constable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030549%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448437"}},{"id":"448290","reference":"AQW 30443/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline what role local councils play in monitoring the welfare of therapy or emotional-support animals.","answerText":"Local councils are responsible for enforcing animal welfare legislation in relation to companion animals. They have full autonomy in determining how best to deliver the animal welfare service; any related queries should be directed to them. Animal welfare concerns should be reported promptly to the relevant agency for investigation and enforcement action as necessary.","answerHtml":"Local councils are responsible for enforcing animal welfare legislation in relation to companion animals. They have full autonomy in determining how best to deliver the animal welfare service; any related queries should be directed to them. Animal welfare concerns should be reported promptly to the relevant agency for investigation and enforcement action as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030443%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448290"}},{"id":"448289","reference":"AQW 30442/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline what formal guidance exists for the Northern Ireland Prison Service on the introduction and care of therapy or emotional-support animals in custodial environments.","answerText":"The Prison Service takes its duty of care for animal safety and wellbeing very seriously. This was reinforced when the Governor of Magilligan invited Animal Welfare Officers from Mid & East Antrim Borough Council to carry out a full review of the care and welfare of an emotional support dog recently introduced at that establishment. These Officers were satisfied with every aspect of Bailey’s care and welfare.\n\nGiven the variation of the prisons estate and those held in custody in each, I am not of the view that formal guidance should override the contextual, careful and professional consideration required and applied when animals are introduced and used in prisons.","answerHtml":"The Prison Service takes its duty of care for animal safety and wellbeing very seriously. This was reinforced when the Governor of Magilligan invited Animal Welfare Officers from Mid & East Antrim Borough Council to carry out a full review of the care and welfare of an emotional support dog recently introduced at that establishment. These Officers were satisfied with every aspect of Bailey’s care and welfare.
Given the variation of the prisons estate and those held in custody in each, I am not of the view that formal guidance should override the contextual, careful and professional consideration required and applied when animals are introduced and used in prisons.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030442%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448289"}},{"id":"448288","reference":"AQW 30441/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she will engage with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to address the legislative gap in the recognition and regulation of therapy or emotional-support animals.","answerText":"The lead department for issues around animal regulation is the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). I would encourage the Member to write to DAERA if she wishes to raise this matter. My department follows all the appropriate guidance in relation to the welfare and well-being of animals in our care and will continue to prioritise that.","answerHtml":"The lead department for issues around animal regulation is the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). I would encourage the Member to write to DAERA if she wishes to raise this matter. My department follows all the appropriate guidance in relation to the welfare and well-being of animals in our care and will continue to prioritise that.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030441%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448288","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448288"}},{"id":"448287","reference":"AQW 30440/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what assessment her Department has made of the risks associated with introducing animals into custodial environments, including potential links between animal abuse and wider patterns of violence.","answerText":"The use of animals by the Northern Ireland Prison Service is an operational matter for the relevant Governor in each prison establishment. I am content that Governors have a thorough understanding of the risks that can present in custodial environments, and how they should be managed in respect of the use of animals.\n\nIt is worth noting that emotional support animals have been deployed in prison settings in Northern Ireland for the last 25 years, providing a wide range of proven benefits in relation to the wellbeing and rehabilitation of offenders. The Prison Service takes its duty of care for animals’ safety and wellbeing very seriously and has also an established record of working with a range of animal charities to offer a caring home and a purposeful life to many animals.","answerHtml":"The use of animals by the Northern Ireland Prison Service is an operational matter for the relevant Governor in each prison establishment. I am content that Governors have a thorough understanding of the risks that can present in custodial environments, and how they should be managed in respect of the use of animals.
It is worth noting that emotional support animals have been deployed in prison settings in Northern Ireland for the last 25 years, providing a wide range of proven benefits in relation to the wellbeing and rehabilitation of offenders. The Prison Service takes its duty of care for animals’ safety and wellbeing very seriously and has also an established record of working with a range of animal charities to offer a caring home and a purposeful life to many animals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030440%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448287","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448287"}},{"id":"448286","reference":"AQW 30439/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-05","answerBy":"2025-09-22","answered":"2025-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he intends to consult with veterinary and animal-welfare organisations to develop standards for therapy or emotional-support animals.","answerText":"At present, I have no plans to introduce standards specifically for therapy or emotional support animals. The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that establishes minimum welfare requirements for all animals in every context. To date, I have not received any evidence indicating a necessity for distinct standards relating to therapy or emotional support dogs.","answerHtml":"At present, I have no plans to introduce standards specifically for therapy or emotional support animals. The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 is a comprehensive piece of legislation that establishes minimum welfare requirements for all animals in every context. To date, I have not received any evidence indicating a necessity for distinct standards relating to therapy or emotional support dogs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030439%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448286","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448286"}},{"id":"448121","reference":"AQW 30327/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any engagement she intends to have with residents and businesses in Ballykelly, as part of the development of the (i) Transport Strategy 2035; and (ii) Transport Plan.","answerText":"The draft Transport Strategy was launched for public consultation on 24 June 2025 and is currently open for public consultation. The public consultation is an important first step and officials welcome feedback during this consultation period to help shape a transport system that works for all and safeguards the environment for future generations.\n\nPublic engagement on the vision and objectives of the North West Transport Plan was carried out from 27 August 2024 to 5 November 2024. Further engagement will be carried out during the development of the Plan.","answerHtml":"The draft Transport Strategy was launched for public consultation on 24 June 2025 and is currently open for public consultation. The public consultation is an important first step and officials welcome feedback during this consultation period to help shape a transport system that works for all and safeguards the environment for future generations.
Public engagement on the vision and objectives of the North West Transport Plan was carried out from 27 August 2024 to 5 November 2024. Further engagement will be carried out during the development of the Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030327%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448121"}},{"id":"448120","reference":"AQW 30326/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the timetable for the publication of the new Transport Strategy 2035.","answerText":"The draft Transport Strategy has been launched for public consultation.\n\nThis Strategy is the beginning of a bold and necessary journey to ensure that our transportation system meets the demands of tomorrow, while reflecting the values and priorities of our community today.\n\nThe public consultation is an important first step and feedback is welcomed during this consultation period to help shape a transport system that works for all and safeguards the environment for future generations. All responses will be reviewed alongside all other consultations before the Transport Strategy is finalised.\n\nPublication will therefore be dictated by the level and scale of engagement responses.","answerHtml":"The draft Transport Strategy has been launched for public consultation.
This Strategy is the beginning of a bold and necessary journey to ensure that our transportation system meets the demands of tomorrow, while reflecting the values and priorities of our community today.
The public consultation is an important first step and feedback is welcomed during this consultation period to help shape a transport system that works for all and safeguards the environment for future generations. All responses will be reviewed alongside all other consultations before the Transport Strategy is finalised.
Publication will therefore be dictated by the level and scale of engagement responses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030326%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448120"}},{"id":"448119","reference":"AQW 30325/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has undertaken, or plans to undertake, an assessment of the impact of traffic congestion in Ballykelly on local economic development.","answerText":"My Department does not routinely assess the impact of traffic congestion on economic development.\n\nMy Department is in the process of developing a new Transport Strategy that will help to shape the vision and strategic priorities for transport through to 2035. Once this is published, it will help to inform the Transport Plan for the Regional Strategic Transport Network, which will include the strategic network at Ballykelly.","answerHtml":"My Department does not routinely assess the impact of traffic congestion on economic development.
My Department is in the process of developing a new Transport Strategy that will help to shape the vision and strategic priorities for transport through to 2035. Once this is published, it will help to inform the Transport Plan for the Regional Strategic Transport Network, which will include the strategic network at Ballykelly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030325%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448119"}},{"id":"448118","reference":"AQW 30324/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the total length of time that traffic management measures have been in place in Ballykelly, as a result of roadworks, in the last three years.","answerText":"Over the past three years there have been approximately 230 days of restricted hours lane closures on the A2 Clooney Road in Ballykelly and Walworth.\n\nIn addition, there have been 10 days of full night-time carriageway closure with a diversion route for carriageway resurfacing.\n\nThe majority of the works are attributable to my department and involve investment of over £3m in the area.","answerHtml":"Over the past three years there have been approximately 230 days of restricted hours lane closures on the A2 Clooney Road in Ballykelly and Walworth.
In addition, there have been 10 days of full night-time carriageway closure with a diversion route for carriageway resurfacing.
The majority of the works are attributable to my department and involve investment of over £3m in the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030324%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448118"}},{"id":"448117","reference":"AQW 30323/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-19","answered":"2025-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has carried out an updated traffic flow assessment for Ballykelly, since the preferred A2 bypass route was first announced in 2010.","answerText":"Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety.\n\nMy Department is in the process of developing a new Transport Strategy that will help to shape the vision and strategic priorities for transport through to 2035. Once this is published, it will help to inform the Transport Plan for the Regional Strategic Transport Network, which includes the A2 at Ballykelly.\n\nA preferred route for Ballykelly Bypass was announced in 2010 and since then no further development work has been undertaken on the project. If the A2 Ballykelly scheme is prioritised within the Transport Plan, this route would then be reassessed as part of the plan for scheme delivery.","answerHtml":"Major Road schemes are an important part of the work that is delivered by my Department as we seek to reduce journey times, increase reliability and improve road safety.
My Department is in the process of developing a new Transport Strategy that will help to shape the vision and strategic priorities for transport through to 2035. Once this is published, it will help to inform the Transport Plan for the Regional Strategic Transport Network, which includes the A2 at Ballykelly.
A preferred route for Ballykelly Bypass was announced in 2010 and since then no further development work has been undertaken on the project. If the A2 Ballykelly scheme is prioritised within the Transport Plan, this route would then be reassessed as part of the plan for scheme delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030323%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=448117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=448117"}},{"id":"450328","reference":"AQO 2366/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-04","answerBy":"2025-09-16","answered":"2025-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline any legislative proposals currently proceeding following the Sentencing Policy Review in Northern Ireland announced in 2016.","answerText":"ORAL QUESTION No 11 - AQO 2366/22-27\n\nANSWER\n\nWith your permission Mr Speaker I will answer Questions 11 and 14 together.\n\nThe Sentencing Bill will deliver on a number of the recommendations arising from my Department’s review of sentencing policy which commenced in 2016, the findings of which were subject to public consultation in 2019. This will include:\n\na statement of the principles and purposes of sentencing;\n\nprovision to allow further use of community community-based sanctions in sentencing;\n\nstatutory starting points for life sentence tariff calculation;\n\nexpansion and simplification of the current unduly lenient sentence referral provisions;\n\ncreation of a new offence of assaulting those providing a service to the public or performing a public duty;\n\ncreation of a statutory aggravator for vulnerable victims; and\n\nincreasing maximum penalties for offences causing death by driving.\n\nThe Bill will also include measures to encourage the disclosure of the location of victims’ remains, to be known as “Charlotte’s Law”, and provision for a statutory aggravator for hate crimes.\n\nI received Executive approval to the proposed content of my Sentencing Bill on the 19 December 2024. It is intended that the Bill will be introduced to the Assembly before the end of 2025.\n\nIn relation to cases of death by dangerous driving, the Bill will ensure that disqualification from driving is served after release from custody.\n\nThe grant or refusal of bail when a person is awaiting trial should always be based on the facts of the case.\n\nAny decision to refuse bail should only be taken where this can be justified under domestic legislation and in compliance with the European Convention on Human Rights.\n\nAny decisions on bail or remand into custody in individual cases are, therefore, matters for the independent courts and judiciary and are not matters that involve me or my Department.\n\nThere are no current plans to include new guidance on the granting of bail in the forthcoming Sentencing Bill; however, it is a matter which I intend to keep under review.","answerHtml":"ORAL QUESTION No 11 - AQO 2366/22-27
ANSWER
With your permission Mr Speaker I will answer Questions 11 and 14 together.
The Sentencing Bill will deliver on a number of the recommendations arising from my Department’s review of sentencing policy which commenced in 2016, the findings of which were subject to public consultation in 2019. This will include:
a statement of the principles and purposes of sentencing;
provision to allow further use of community community-based sanctions in sentencing;
statutory starting points for life sentence tariff calculation;
expansion and simplification of the current unduly lenient sentence referral provisions;
creation of a new offence of assaulting those providing a service to the public or performing a public duty;
creation of a statutory aggravator for vulnerable victims; and
increasing maximum penalties for offences causing death by driving.
The Bill will also include measures to encourage the disclosure of the location of victims’ remains, to be known as “Charlotte’s Law”, and provision for a statutory aggravator for hate crimes.
I received Executive approval to the proposed content of my Sentencing Bill on the 19 December 2024. It is intended that the Bill will be introduced to the Assembly before the end of 2025.
In relation to cases of death by dangerous driving, the Bill will ensure that disqualification from driving is served after release from custody.
The grant or refusal of bail when a person is awaiting trial should always be based on the facts of the case.
Any decision to refuse bail should only be taken where this can be justified under domestic legislation and in compliance with the European Convention on Human Rights.
Any decisions on bail or remand into custody in individual cases are, therefore, matters for the independent courts and judiciary and are not matters that involve me or my Department.
There are no current plans to include new guidance on the granting of bail in the forthcoming Sentencing Bill; however, it is a matter which I intend to keep under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202366%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=450328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=450328"}},{"id":"447951","reference":"AQW 30207/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the action her Department is taking to address the median 630 days for processing sexual offence cases in Northern Ireland courts.","answerText":"The timely progression of criminal cases is central to the effective delivery of justice and delays can have significant consequences for victims, defendants, and for public confidence in the system. While efforts are ongoing to reduce avoidable delay, some types of cases can take significantly longer to conclude.\n\nSexual offence cases due to their serious nature often tend to be prosecuted in the Crown Court which generally involves a longer process. Whilst the most recent available data demonstrates these cases are currently take longer to complete than any other offence category, there has been a gradual improvement in case processing times. Median durations have reduced from 757 days in 2022–23, to 675 in 2023–24, and now 630 in 2024–25, which is a reduction of nearly 17% over three years. While this progress is encouraging, I recognise there is much more to do.\n\nIt is important to understand the underlying reasons why these cases can take longer to conclude. They are among the most complex cases with several factors contributing to the longer case durations observed:\n\nThey include significant volumes of evidence, including growing use of digital evidence.\n\nWhere they are historical offences, the time between the alleged incident and its reporting can create additional challenges in building the case, securing corroborating evidence, and supporting victims and witnesses through the process.\n\nSerious sexual offences are rightly subject to rigorous process and therefore are predominantly heard in the Crown Court - 57.1% of cases were disposed there in 2023–24. This reflects both the seriousness and complexity of these cases and includes additional procedural stages such as committal from the magistrates’ courts. These steps contribute to the overall case duration. In contrast, other offence types are more likely to be prosecuted in the magistrates’ courts. Therefore, while sexual offence cases may appear to take longer to complete, comparisons between across offence types can be misleading without accounting for the level of court in which they are heard. It is more appropriate to assess trends over time within an offence category.\n\nMy Department and justice colleagues are currently engaged in a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay across the system. This work is driven by the Criminal Justice Board and takes forward existing work on Committal Reform, existing and emerging work in the digital arena and explores other areas for efficiencies such as Early Engagement between key stakeholders to help drive case progression, increased sentencing powers for magistrates’ courts and expanding the use of Out of Court Disposals. My Department has also recently been successful in a bid to secure Transformation funding which will help to drive forward work in relation to Early Engagement and Out of Court Disposals.\n\nTaken together, these reforms aim to rebalance the justice system, ensuring a more proportionate approach to offending, and freeing up capacity to focus on the most serious cases. I recognise there is more we need to do, both in sexual offences and more broadly, to improve case processing times, and remain committed, alongside my justice partners, to driving forward the changes needed.","answerHtml":"The timely progression of criminal cases is central to the effective delivery of justice and delays can have significant consequences for victims, defendants, and for public confidence in the system. While efforts are ongoing to reduce avoidable delay, some types of cases can take significantly longer to conclude.
Sexual offence cases due to their serious nature often tend to be prosecuted in the Crown Court which generally involves a longer process. Whilst the most recent available data demonstrates these cases are currently take longer to complete than any other offence category, there has been a gradual improvement in case processing times. Median durations have reduced from 757 days in 2022–23, to 675 in 2023–24, and now 630 in 2024–25, which is a reduction of nearly 17% over three years. While this progress is encouraging, I recognise there is much more to do.
It is important to understand the underlying reasons why these cases can take longer to conclude. They are among the most complex cases with several factors contributing to the longer case durations observed:
They include significant volumes of evidence, including growing use of digital evidence.
Where they are historical offences, the time between the alleged incident and its reporting can create additional challenges in building the case, securing corroborating evidence, and supporting victims and witnesses through the process.
Serious sexual offences are rightly subject to rigorous process and therefore are predominantly heard in the Crown Court - 57.1% of cases were disposed there in 2023–24. This reflects both the seriousness and complexity of these cases and includes additional procedural stages such as committal from the magistrates’ courts. These steps contribute to the overall case duration. In contrast, other offence types are more likely to be prosecuted in the magistrates’ courts. Therefore, while sexual offence cases may appear to take longer to complete, comparisons between across offence types can be misleading without accounting for the level of court in which they are heard. It is more appropriate to assess trends over time within an offence category.
My Department and justice colleagues are currently engaged in a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay across the system. This work is driven by the Criminal Justice Board and takes forward existing work on Committal Reform, existing and emerging work in the digital arena and explores other areas for efficiencies such as Early Engagement between key stakeholders to help drive case progression, increased sentencing powers for magistrates’ courts and expanding the use of Out of Court Disposals. My Department has also recently been successful in a bid to secure Transformation funding which will help to drive forward work in relation to Early Engagement and Out of Court Disposals.
Taken together, these reforms aim to rebalance the justice system, ensuring a more proportionate approach to offending, and freeing up capacity to focus on the most serious cases. I recognise there is more we need to do, both in sexual offences and more broadly, to improve case processing times, and remain committed, alongside my justice partners, to driving forward the changes needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030207%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447951"}},{"id":"447950","reference":"AQW 30206/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number of sexual offence cases, currently in the court system, which have been delayed for more than two years; and (ii) the longest current delay.","answerText":"At 1 September 2025, there were 361 live cases at court stage in the justice process, where the main offence was a sexual offence. Of these, in 216 cases, it had been over 2 years since the offence was initially reported, and, in the case with the longest period since the offence was reported, it had been 21 years 8 months.\n\nIn 48 cases, it had been over 2 years since the first court date after PPS decision to prosecute, and, in the case with the longest period since the first court date after PPS decision to prosecute, it had been 12 years 9 days.\n\nNote:\n\n1. Figures relate to cases brought on behalf of the PSNI, NCA, Harbour, Airport police and other Governmental bodies in Northern Ireland.\n\n2. Figures include cases at Crown Court and at magistrates’ courts.\n\n3. Figures relate to cases where the main offence is a sexual offence.\n\n4. Cases in the court system has been interpreted as cases which have had a first court date after PPS decision to prosecute but which have not yet been completed.\n\n5. Figures are derived from management information systems.\n\nIt is important these figures are seen in context. For example, for these cases, the median time from date offence was reported was 2 years 4 months. Similarly, the median time since the first court date after PPS decision to prosecute was 7 months 10 days. There may be a number of reasons that a case may have been unable to be completed, such as where the defendant has health related issues or where a defendant is already in custody in another jurisdiction. The Department of Justice is working with criminal justice partners to deliver a Speeding Up Justice programme, which seeks to reform the handling of cases, getting the most serious cases to court more quickly, and dealing with cases effectively and proportionately.","answerHtml":"At 1 September 2025, there were 361 live cases at court stage in the justice process, where the main offence was a sexual offence. Of these, in 216 cases, it had been over 2 years since the offence was initially reported, and, in the case with the longest period since the offence was reported, it had been 21 years 8 months.
In 48 cases, it had been over 2 years since the first court date after PPS decision to prosecute, and, in the case with the longest period since the first court date after PPS decision to prosecute, it had been 12 years 9 days.
Note:
1. Figures relate to cases brought on behalf of the PSNI, NCA, Harbour, Airport police and other Governmental bodies in Northern Ireland.
2. Figures include cases at Crown Court and at magistrates’ courts.
3. Figures relate to cases where the main offence is a sexual offence.
4. Cases in the court system has been interpreted as cases which have had a first court date after PPS decision to prosecute but which have not yet been completed.
5. Figures are derived from management information systems.
It is important these figures are seen in context. For example, for these cases, the median time from date offence was reported was 2 years 4 months. Similarly, the median time since the first court date after PPS decision to prosecute was 7 months 10 days. There may be a number of reasons that a case may have been unable to be completed, such as where the defendant has health related issues or where a defendant is already in custody in another jurisdiction. The Department of Justice is working with criminal justice partners to deliver a Speeding Up Justice programme, which seeks to reform the handling of cases, getting the most serious cases to court more quickly, and dealing with cases effectively and proportionately.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447950"}},{"id":"447949","reference":"AQW 30205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department will consider (i) piloting specialist or fast-track sexual violence courts in Northern Ireland; and (ii) assessing their potential to reduce the current median of 630 days of processing time, including the effectiveness of similar courts in England.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the ongoing Specialist Sexual Violence Court pilot in England and will consider what, if any lessons there are for Northern Ireland when the evaluation is published.\n\nThe listing and scheduling of court business is a matter for the independent judiciary; however, my Department is currently working with the judiciary and criminal justice stakeholders to support and further develop the voluntary protocol to expedite sexual offence cases involving young complainants and will continue to support such positive initiatives.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the ongoing Specialist Sexual Violence Court pilot in England and will consider what, if any lessons there are for Northern Ireland when the evaluation is published.
The listing and scheduling of court business is a matter for the independent judiciary; however, my Department is currently working with the judiciary and criminal justice stakeholders to support and further develop the voluntary protocol to expedite sexual offence cases involving young complainants and will continue to support such positive initiatives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447949"}},{"id":"447948","reference":"AQW 30204/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the implementation of the recommendations in the Gillen Review Report into the law and procedures in serious sexual offences in Northern Ireland, regarding improving the handling of serious sexual offences.","answerText":"While there remains work to be done, good progress has been made towards the implementation of the Gillen Review recommendations. Implementation of the is complex and cannot be achieved by DOJ alone as it requires a collaborative and partnership approach to achieve the transformational change required.\n\nI am pleased to report that 174 (69%) of the original 253 Gillen Review recommendations are assessed as complete and a further 25 (10%) are partially completed, meaning that while provision is in place, further work will be required to mainstream the service.\n\nHowever, I do not believe that simply reporting on the number of completed/in progress recommendations conveys the true scale of the impact of this progress in terms of outcomes for victims.\n\nMy approach has been to prioritise recommendations that deliver real and meaningful benefits for victims of sexual crime, including:\n\nAccess to free legal advice for all victims of serious sexual offences, through the SOLA and Children’s SOLA schemes. The adult service has been in place since 1 April 2021 and has provided advice and support to over 2,000 victims of sexual crime. The Children’s SOLA (CSOLA) service launched on 5 February 2025, and has assisted over 150 young victims and their families. Feedback on both schemes continues to be overwhelmingly positive with many service users reporting that it has increased their confidence and understanding of the justice system, and importantly, ha encouraged them to remain engaged within the justice system when they might otherwise have withdrawn.\n\nRemote Evidence Centres (RECs) allow vulnerable witnesses to give evidence directly to the court from a secure and comfortable facility, away from the courthouse. Importantly, attending the REC ensures that the witness will not encounter the defendant or the defendant’s family or supporters in or around the court building on the day of the trial. Two new RECs have been established in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry ~ Londonderry. The outcomes are encouraging:\n\nthere was an increase of over 600% in REC trial bookings in 2024 compared to 2023;\n\nthis increase in demand has continued in 2025 with a further 90% increase in bookings so far this calendar year compared to 2024;\n\nand, in 2024, 344 witnesses (199 adults and 145 children) attended a REC to give evidence with that number set to reach around 500 in 2025.\n\nThe Gillen Review anticipated that RECs would enable victims to give their best evidence and increase their confidence in the justice system. This is supported by conviction rates for REC cases that, so far this year, stand at 90%, and for the whole of 2024 was 92%. Over half of these convictions have been by guilty plea, meaning that the victim has not had to go through the daunting experience of having to provide any oral evidence at the trial. An evaluation of the RECs is to be taken forward and will help to inform recommendations to roll out wider access to REC facilities across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe judge-led voluntary Protocol to expedite serious sexual offence cases involving child witnesses under 13 years of age continues to operate in Belfast and Antrim Crown Courts and is delivering positive results. In 2024, participating organisations agreed to expedite serious sexual offence cases involving those under 16 years in all jurisdictions, where possible. However, these cases are not subject to the same timeframes as have been formally adopted in the U13 protocol. My Department is considering how to support the further rollout of the Protocol, but there are some complex issues to be overcome and any additional expansion will require resources and funding.\n\nThe Barnahus model is a concept that offers a child-friendly approach to sexual crime where law enforcement, criminal justice, child protective services, and medical and mental health workers cooperate in a ‘joined up’ approach to ensure the best support for child victims. A cross-departmental Barnahus Working Group, jointly led by the Department of Health (DoH) and my Department is taking forward work to identify potential options for a Barnahus model. I anticipate that recommendations arising from this work will be shared with myself and the Health Minister for consideration shortly.\n\nMy Department has also worked with the PSNI and Executive Office to fund and deliver the PSNI-led Power to Change public awareness campaign that launched on 28 January 2025. The campaign tackles the underpinning behaviours and attitudes that can fuel sexual offending and gender-based violence, including violence against women and girls. Since its launch, the ‘campaign has received over 1.4 million impressions on Tik Tok and over 2.4 million impressions on YouTube. Work has commenced on Phase Two of the campaign which will focus on challenging the misogynistic messages conveyed through some social media channels.\n\nThe Gillen Review said ‘social media must not be permitted to pollute the stream of justice and defeat the interests of both complainants and accused persons’. My department, in conjunction with the Lady Chief Justice’s Office and the NI Courts and Tribunals Service (NICTS) has published a booklet that sets out clear guidance for jurors on their legal responsibilities, contempt of court, and on the laws around their use of social media during and after trials. All sworn jurors are required to read the booklet prior to the commencement of the trial and posters highlighting this information are in place in all courthouses. The booklet is also available on the Department’s website. In addition, these messages have also now been included in a set of four new videos that jurors will watch prior to the trial. The videos can be viewed here - NICTS jury information videos | Department of Justice\n\nReducing delay is crucial to improving victims’ experience of the justice system and reducing attrition. While there is more work to be done, progress is being made, including:\n\nthe first stage of the NI Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Act was implemented on 17 October 2022. The new committal process means the use of oral evidence during committal proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court for new cases was abolished. This change simplifies the committal process, reduces costs and delay, which benefits both victims and witnesses and the accused.\n\nThe Department is also working with criminal justice partners to take forward the second phase of committal reform (‘direct committal’), to remove the traditional committal process entirely for the most serious offences, with the majority of those cases being directly transferred to the Crown Court at the first court appearance in the Magistrates’ Court. I have tasked my officials to implement direct committal in November 2026.\n\nWork has progressed with the Indictable Cases Process (ICP) for serious sexual offence cases, Following the Gillen Review, the PPS and PSNI made several significant changes to their case processing arrangements in line with the ICP principles. These changes are currently being documented and combined into one process. This work is ongoing with the Serious Sexual Offences Process (SSOP) part of the wider Speeding Up Justice Programme of Work looking at early engagement.\n\nCase Progression Officers are in place in all Crown Court venues and are working to ensure that all procedural or administrative matters in relation to Crown court cases are being progressed by the relevant agencies and that, as far as possible, any blockages or impediments to effective case progression are addressed.\n\nA number of research projects recommended in the Gillen Review are nearing completion. The findings of this research will help inform policy development and the introduction of new measures and services to assist victims. This work includes:\n\nA report to establish baseline figures for attrition in serious sexual offence cases and identify underlying reasons for attrition has been drafted and is being quality assured. This information will inform the introduction of further measures to reduce attrition.\n\nResearch into the use of previous sexual history evidence in serious sexual offence trials by a PhD student under the Queens University Belfast / DoJ Collaborative Studentship Programme. This research will examine how applications are made and dealt with by the courts and will consider if in light of the empirical data, further reforms are needed in this area. The research report is expected later this year.\n\nResearch into the use of Restorative Justice in sexual offences. While the Review advises caution around this highly sensitive subject, it also recommends research should be conducted to establish if a victim-led restorative justice process for sexual offences is possible. Again, under the Queens University Belfast / DoJ Collaborative Studentship Programme, a PhD student is in her final year of a three-year research project on this topic and her report is expected later this year.\n\nAchieving Best Evidence (ABE) interviews are not only crucial for the investigation process, but also have an important part in a victim’s overall experience of the criminal justice system. The implementation of Gillen Review recommendations has included:\n\nABE interview training has been reviewed and improved with input received from Registered Intermediaries, child psychologists and members of the legal profession.\n\nA pilot involving a cadre of police officers and social care staff specifically trained to conduct ABE interviews is delivering important improvements. However, the extension and further roll-out of the ABE Cadre to other Health Trust areas is subject to additional funding becoming available.\n\nABE interview suites have been refurbished to a simplistic but improved standard to remove sources of noise, distractions or a cluttered screen image and Children’s toys or props are now available should they be required;\n\nA PSNI-led ABE Working Group has been established to oversee further improvements to the ABE process, including delivery of the remaining Gillen recommendations in this area.\n\nPSNI and PPS colleagues have continued to lead work to improve the operation of the disclosure process. Under the Disclosure Improvement Plan, improved training has been delivered to prosecutors and police officers and new file standards have been agreed which have led to a drop in the volume of prosecution files being returned to PSNI as a result of failing requirements from an average of almost 78% in 2020 to 11% in 2024. This speeds up the criminal justice process, which ultimately improves the victim’s experience.\n\nThe Gillen Training Group has overseen work to improve the standard of training for the criminal justice organisations including the Police and PPS, as well as solicitors, barristers and court staff. This training will help to deliver cultural and organisational change, to benefit victims through a more trauma informed and sensitive approach. Progress has included:\n\nOver 5,000 police officers trained in a diverse range of topics such as rape myths, conducting ABE interviews, dealing with those affected by trauma and developing specialist skills to deal with child victims;\n\nMembers of the Bar and Law Society taking part in specifically designed courses aimed at raising awareness and supporting the needs of Vulnerable Witnesses; and,\n\nStaff within the PPS received training on the new Non-Fatal Strangulation law and Child Sexual Exploitation. In addition, all legal staff have undergone training in the prevalence, issues and support available to male victims of domestic abuse; strong, robust case building and prosecution in domestic and sexual abuse cases.\n\nSeveral important reforms recommended in the Gillen Review, were introduced under the Justice (Sexual Offences And Trafficking Victims) NI Act 2022 including:\n\nthe exclusion of the public from court in serious sexual offence trials and appeal hearings;\n\nthe extension of existing lifelong anonymity for victims until 25 years after death; and\n\nincreased penalties for breach on anonymity.\n\nI remain committed to the full implementation of the Gillen Review and ongoing priorities that I intend to progress within this mandate include:\n\nMy Department is progressing work on new legislation to clarify the right of complainants in serious sexual offence cases to third party representation during pre-trial applications. These provisions are planned to be introduced to the Assembly under the Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill in Spring 2026 along with provisions to enhance the protection of complainants’ personal information in the third party material disclosure process (this includes information such as counselling notes and some social service or medical records).\n\nMy officials are also leading work to develop a social media campaign to raise awareness and challenge rape myths which will launch before the end of the business year; and,\n\nWork is also underway to develop media guidance in relation to sensitive reporting of sexual offences.","answerHtml":"While there remains work to be done, good progress has been made towards the implementation of the Gillen Review recommendations. Implementation of the is complex and cannot be achieved by DOJ alone as it requires a collaborative and partnership approach to achieve the transformational change required.
I am pleased to report that 174 (69%) of the original 253 Gillen Review recommendations are assessed as complete and a further 25 (10%) are partially completed, meaning that while provision is in place, further work will be required to mainstream the service.
However, I do not believe that simply reporting on the number of completed/in progress recommendations conveys the true scale of the impact of this progress in terms of outcomes for victims.
My approach has been to prioritise recommendations that deliver real and meaningful benefits for victims of sexual crime, including:
Access to free legal advice for all victims of serious sexual offences, through the SOLA and Children’s SOLA schemes. The adult service has been in place since 1 April 2021 and has provided advice and support to over 2,000 victims of sexual crime. The Children’s SOLA (CSOLA) service launched on 5 February 2025, and has assisted over 150 young victims and their families. Feedback on both schemes continues to be overwhelmingly positive with many service users reporting that it has increased their confidence and understanding of the justice system, and importantly, ha encouraged them to remain engaged within the justice system when they might otherwise have withdrawn.
Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) allow vulnerable witnesses to give evidence directly to the court from a secure and comfortable facility, away from the courthouse. Importantly, attending the REC ensures that the witness will not encounter the defendant or the defendant’s family or supporters in or around the court building on the day of the trial. Two new RECs have been established in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry ~ Londonderry. The outcomes are encouraging:
there was an increase of over 600% in REC trial bookings in 2024 compared to 2023;
this increase in demand has continued in 2025 with a further 90% increase in bookings so far this calendar year compared to 2024;
and, in 2024, 344 witnesses (199 adults and 145 children) attended a REC to give evidence with that number set to reach around 500 in 2025.
The Gillen Review anticipated that RECs would enable victims to give their best evidence and increase their confidence in the justice system. This is supported by conviction rates for REC cases that, so far this year, stand at 90%, and for the whole of 2024 was 92%. Over half of these convictions have been by guilty plea, meaning that the victim has not had to go through the daunting experience of having to provide any oral evidence at the trial. An evaluation of the RECs is to be taken forward and will help to inform recommendations to roll out wider access to REC facilities across Northern Ireland.
The judge-led voluntary Protocol to expedite serious sexual offence cases involving child witnesses under 13 years of age continues to operate in Belfast and Antrim Crown Courts and is delivering positive results. In 2024, participating organisations agreed to expedite serious sexual offence cases involving those under 16 years in all jurisdictions, where possible. However, these cases are not subject to the same timeframes as have been formally adopted in the U13 protocol. My Department is considering how to support the further rollout of the Protocol, but there are some complex issues to be overcome and any additional expansion will require resources and funding.
The Barnahus model is a concept that offers a child-friendly approach to sexual crime where law enforcement, criminal justice, child protective services, and medical and mental health workers cooperate in a ‘joined up’ approach to ensure the best support for child victims. A cross-departmental Barnahus Working Group, jointly led by the Department of Health (DoH) and my Department is taking forward work to identify potential options for a Barnahus model. I anticipate that recommendations arising from this work will be shared with myself and the Health Minister for consideration shortly.
My Department has also worked with the PSNI and Executive Office to fund and deliver the PSNI-led Power to Change public awareness campaign that launched on 28 January 2025. The campaign tackles the underpinning behaviours and attitudes that can fuel sexual offending and gender-based violence, including violence against women and girls. Since its launch, the ‘campaign has received over 1.4 million impressions on Tik Tok and over 2.4 million impressions on YouTube. Work has commenced on Phase Two of the campaign which will focus on challenging the misogynistic messages conveyed through some social media channels.
The Gillen Review said ‘social media must not be permitted to pollute the stream of justice and defeat the interests of both complainants and accused persons’. My department, in conjunction with the Lady Chief Justice’s Office and the NI Courts and Tribunals Service (NICTS) has published a booklet that sets out clear guidance for jurors on their legal responsibilities, contempt of court, and on the laws around their use of social media during and after trials. All sworn jurors are required to read the booklet prior to the commencement of the trial and posters highlighting this information are in place in all courthouses. The booklet is also available on the Department’s website. In addition, these messages have also now been included in a set of four new videos that jurors will watch prior to the trial. The videos can be viewed here - NICTS jury information videos | Department of Justice
Reducing delay is crucial to improving victims’ experience of the justice system and reducing attrition. While there is more work to be done, progress is being made, including:
the first stage of the NI Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Act was implemented on 17 October 2022. The new committal process means the use of oral evidence during committal proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court for new cases was abolished. This change simplifies the committal process, reduces costs and delay, which benefits both victims and witnesses and the accused.
The Department is also working with criminal justice partners to take forward the second phase of committal reform (‘direct committal’), to remove the traditional committal process entirely for the most serious offences, with the majority of those cases being directly transferred to the Crown Court at the first court appearance in the Magistrates’ Court. I have tasked my officials to implement direct committal in November 2026.
Work has progressed with the Indictable Cases Process (ICP) for serious sexual offence cases, Following the Gillen Review, the PPS and PSNI made several significant changes to their case processing arrangements in line with the ICP principles. These changes are currently being documented and combined into one process. This work is ongoing with the Serious Sexual Offences Process (SSOP) part of the wider Speeding Up Justice Programme of Work looking at early engagement.
Case Progression Officers are in place in all Crown Court venues and are working to ensure that all procedural or administrative matters in relation to Crown court cases are being progressed by the relevant agencies and that, as far as possible, any blockages or impediments to effective case progression are addressed.
A number of research projects recommended in the Gillen Review are nearing completion. The findings of this research will help inform policy development and the introduction of new measures and services to assist victims. This work includes:
A report to establish baseline figures for attrition in serious sexual offence cases and identify underlying reasons for attrition has been drafted and is being quality assured. This information will inform the introduction of further measures to reduce attrition.
Research into the use of previous sexual history evidence in serious sexual offence trials by a PhD student under the Queens University Belfast / DoJ Collaborative Studentship Programme. This research will examine how applications are made and dealt with by the courts and will consider if in light of the empirical data, further reforms are needed in this area. The research report is expected later this year.
Research into the use of Restorative Justice in sexual offences. While the Review advises caution around this highly sensitive subject, it also recommends research should be conducted to establish if a victim-led restorative justice process for sexual offences is possible. Again, under the Queens University Belfast / DoJ Collaborative Studentship Programme, a PhD student is in her final year of a three-year research project on this topic and her report is expected later this year.
Achieving Best Evidence (ABE) interviews are not only crucial for the investigation process, but also have an important part in a victim’s overall experience of the criminal justice system. The implementation of Gillen Review recommendations has included:
ABE interview training has been reviewed and improved with input received from Registered Intermediaries, child psychologists and members of the legal profession.
A pilot involving a cadre of police officers and social care staff specifically trained to conduct ABE interviews is delivering important improvements. However, the extension and further roll-out of the ABE Cadre to other Health Trust areas is subject to additional funding becoming available.
ABE interview suites have been refurbished to a simplistic but improved standard to remove sources of noise, distractions or a cluttered screen image and Children’s toys or props are now available should they be required;
A PSNI-led ABE Working Group has been established to oversee further improvements to the ABE process, including delivery of the remaining Gillen recommendations in this area.
PSNI and PPS colleagues have continued to lead work to improve the operation of the disclosure process. Under the Disclosure Improvement Plan, improved training has been delivered to prosecutors and police officers and new file standards have been agreed which have led to a drop in the volume of prosecution files being returned to PSNI as a result of failing requirements from an average of almost 78% in 2020 to 11% in 2024. This speeds up the criminal justice process, which ultimately improves the victim’s experience.
The Gillen Training Group has overseen work to improve the standard of training for the criminal justice organisations including the Police and PPS, as well as solicitors, barristers and court staff. This training will help to deliver cultural and organisational change, to benefit victims through a more trauma informed and sensitive approach. Progress has included:
Over 5,000 police officers trained in a diverse range of topics such as rape myths, conducting ABE interviews, dealing with those affected by trauma and developing specialist skills to deal with child victims;
Members of the Bar and Law Society taking part in specifically designed courses aimed at raising awareness and supporting the needs of Vulnerable Witnesses; and,
Staff within the PPS received training on the new Non-Fatal Strangulation law and Child Sexual Exploitation. In addition, all legal staff have undergone training in the prevalence, issues and support available to male victims of domestic abuse; strong, robust case building and prosecution in domestic and sexual abuse cases.
Several important reforms recommended in the Gillen Review, were introduced under the Justice (Sexual Offences And Trafficking Victims) NI Act 2022 including:
the exclusion of the public from court in serious sexual offence trials and appeal hearings;
the extension of existing lifelong anonymity for victims until 25 years after death; and
increased penalties for breach on anonymity.
I remain committed to the full implementation of the Gillen Review and ongoing priorities that I intend to progress within this mandate include:
My Department is progressing work on new legislation to clarify the right of complainants in serious sexual offence cases to third party representation during pre-trial applications. These provisions are planned to be introduced to the Assembly under the Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill in Spring 2026 along with provisions to enhance the protection of complainants’ personal information in the third party material disclosure process (this includes information such as counselling notes and some social service or medical records).
My officials are also leading work to develop a social media campaign to raise awareness and challenge rape myths which will launch before the end of the business year; and,
Work is also underway to develop media guidance in relation to sensitive reporting of sexual offences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030204%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447948"}},{"id":"447947","reference":"AQW 30203/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-03","answerBy":"2025-09-18","answered":"2025-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the steps her Department is taking to improve communication and support for victims of sexual offences during lengthy court delays.","answerText":"I recognise the unique challenges facing all victims of crime, but particularly victims of sexual offences, as a result of lengthy and complex court processes. I recognise that it is important that victims are provided with appropriate and timely information, advice and support to help minimise these impacts.\n\nThe Victim Charter sets out the entitlements and services that victims of crime in Northern Ireland can expect to receive from criminal justice organisations. This includes their right to receive updates on their case. The Charter also provides information about support services available, and what to do should anyone feel their Charter rights are not being upheld. The planned Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill includes a provision requiring criminal justice organisations to demonstrate compliance with Victim Charter entitlements, which I am confident will help to drive transparency and best practice across the criminal justice system.\n\nIn addition, my Department funds specialist advocacy services for high-risk victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse, which are delivered by ASSIST NI. This service helps victims to engage with statutory and voluntary services and in doing so, helps to ensure victims receive regular updates on the status of their case, which is so important during lengthy investigations or court delays. The advocates will help explain processes, anticipated timeframes, and any changes to trial schedules in clear, trauma-informed language. Victims are assigned a dedicated support worker who acts as a single, trusted point of contact. This continuity builds trust, reduces re-traumatisation, and prevents victims from having to repeatedly share their story.\n\nMy Department also funds Victim Support Northern Ireland (VSNI) to provide a range of support services to all victims, including those who have experienced sexual crime. This includes the provision of emotional support, information, advice, assistance with claiming Criminal Injuries Compensation, court support services and signposting to other specialist services. VSNI’s Witness Service helps witnesses to prepare for court, and by accompanying witnesses as they give evidence can provide reassurance in advance of and during the trial process. The service ensures that victims feel supported, listened to, and confident in navigating the criminal justice system, even when proceedings are prolonged.\n\nMy Department also funds the NSPCC’s Young Witness Service, which provides support and reassurance to young people, children and their families, including those who have experienced sexual offences.\n\nThe Victim and Witness Care Unit (VWCU) within PPS also provides victims of crime with a caseworker from the point that an investigation or charge file is submitted to the PPS, through to and including the outcome of any court proceedings. VWCU Case Officers keep victims updated on their case as well as referring victims for specific supports provided by other organisations.\n\nCollectively these services and measures are contributing to providing victims of crime with appropriate communication, support and advice in a timely manner.\n\nHowever, I acknowledge that there are opportunities to improve how victims are informed and supported through the criminal justice system. My Department chairs the cross-sectoral Victim & Witness Steering Group, which includes representation from victim organisations such as VSNI and NSPCC as well as Victim Champions from across the justice system. This steering group provides a platform for partnership working to ensure a systematic approach is taken to driving forward improvements.\n\nMy Department is currently finalising a new Victims and Witnesses of Crime Strategy for Northern Ireland. Its Vision is to increase confidence in the justice system by empowering and supporting all victims and witnesses with a trauma informed approach. In support of this, the draft strategy’s Mission Statement says that we will achieve this by providing victims and witnesses, including children, young people and vulnerable users, with tailored support and effective communication, in a transparent, rights compliant way.\n\nWhilst effective communication is critical, tackling delay is also a key priority for my Department and criminal justice partners. The Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work to Speed up the Justice system. This is part of my Department’s Programme for Government commitments to reform the way in which criminal cases are handled. This includes getting the most serious cases to court more quickly, looking at the jurisdiction of the courts, and enhanced digital capabilities to deliver efficiencies, and how we can remove demand from the court system, such as less serious motoring offences, to help free up capacity for courts.","answerHtml":"I recognise the unique challenges facing all victims of crime, but particularly victims of sexual offences, as a result of lengthy and complex court processes. I recognise that it is important that victims are provided with appropriate and timely information, advice and support to help minimise these impacts.
The Victim Charter sets out the entitlements and services that victims of crime in Northern Ireland can expect to receive from criminal justice organisations. This includes their right to receive updates on their case. The Charter also provides information about support services available, and what to do should anyone feel their Charter rights are not being upheld. The planned Victims and Witnesses of Crime Bill includes a provision requiring criminal justice organisations to demonstrate compliance with Victim Charter entitlements, which I am confident will help to drive transparency and best practice across the criminal justice system.
In addition, my Department funds specialist advocacy services for high-risk victims and survivors of domestic and sexual abuse, which are delivered by ASSIST NI. This service helps victims to engage with statutory and voluntary services and in doing so, helps to ensure victims receive regular updates on the status of their case, which is so important during lengthy investigations or court delays. The advocates will help explain processes, anticipated timeframes, and any changes to trial schedules in clear, trauma-informed language. Victims are assigned a dedicated support worker who acts as a single, trusted point of contact. This continuity builds trust, reduces re-traumatisation, and prevents victims from having to repeatedly share their story.
My Department also funds Victim Support Northern Ireland (VSNI) to provide a range of support services to all victims, including those who have experienced sexual crime. This includes the provision of emotional support, information, advice, assistance with claiming Criminal Injuries Compensation, court support services and signposting to other specialist services. VSNI’s Witness Service helps witnesses to prepare for court, and by accompanying witnesses as they give evidence can provide reassurance in advance of and during the trial process. The service ensures that victims feel supported, listened to, and confident in navigating the criminal justice system, even when proceedings are prolonged.
My Department also funds the NSPCC’s Young Witness Service, which provides support and reassurance to young people, children and their families, including those who have experienced sexual offences.
The Victim and Witness Care Unit (VWCU) within PPS also provides victims of crime with a caseworker from the point that an investigation or charge file is submitted to the PPS, through to and including the outcome of any court proceedings. VWCU Case Officers keep victims updated on their case as well as referring victims for specific supports provided by other organisations.
Collectively these services and measures are contributing to providing victims of crime with appropriate communication, support and advice in a timely manner.
However, I acknowledge that there are opportunities to improve how victims are informed and supported through the criminal justice system. My Department chairs the cross-sectoral Victim & Witness Steering Group, which includes representation from victim organisations such as VSNI and NSPCC as well as Victim Champions from across the justice system. This steering group provides a platform for partnership working to ensure a systematic approach is taken to driving forward improvements.
My Department is currently finalising a new Victims and Witnesses of Crime Strategy for Northern Ireland. Its Vision is to increase confidence in the justice system by empowering and supporting all victims and witnesses with a trauma informed approach. In support of this, the draft strategy’s Mission Statement says that we will achieve this by providing victims and witnesses, including children, young people and vulnerable users, with tailored support and effective communication, in a transparent, rights compliant way.
Whilst effective communication is critical, tackling delay is also a key priority for my Department and criminal justice partners. The Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work to Speed up the Justice system. This is part of my Department’s Programme for Government commitments to reform the way in which criminal cases are handled. This includes getting the most serious cases to court more quickly, looking at the jurisdiction of the courts, and enhanced digital capabilities to deliver efficiencies, and how we can remove demand from the court system, such as less serious motoring offences, to help free up capacity for courts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030203%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447947"}},{"id":"447804","reference":"AQW 30099/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-02","answerBy":"2025-09-17","answered":"2025-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients red flagged for breast cancer assessment who have waited longer than the 14-day target in each of the last 12 months, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The numbers of patients waiting more than 14 days following urgent breast cancer referrals, by Health and Social Care Trust, are published on a quarterly basis in the ‘Northern Ireland Cancer Waiting Times’ statistics bulletin. The most recent figures are included on the ‘14 Day Wait - Breast Cancer’ worksheet of the associated ‘Cancer Waiting Times Statistics by HSC Trust and Tumour Site January – March 2025’ Excel file on the Department’s website at:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/cancer-waiting-times\n\nPlease note Red Flag breast assessments are equivalent to urgent breast cancer referrals.\n\nI acknowledge that the current waiting times for red flag breast cancer are lengthy and growing for adults across Northern Ireland. This situation has arisen due to several factors, including funding that falls short of objectively assessed need and previous missed opportunities to reform health and social care delivery. I am committed to addressing this, subject to available funding.","answerHtml":"The numbers of patients waiting more than 14 days following urgent breast cancer referrals, by Health and Social Care Trust, are published on a quarterly basis in the ‘Northern Ireland Cancer Waiting Times’ statistics bulletin. The most recent figures are included on the ‘14 Day Wait - Breast Cancer’ worksheet of the associated ‘Cancer Waiting Times Statistics by HSC Trust and Tumour Site January – March 2025’ Excel file on the Department’s website at:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/cancer-waiting-times
Please note Red Flag breast assessments are equivalent to urgent breast cancer referrals.
I acknowledge that the current waiting times for red flag breast cancer are lengthy and growing for adults across Northern Ireland. This situation has arisen due to several factors, including funding that falls short of objectively assessed need and previous missed opportunities to reform health and social care delivery. I am committed to addressing this, subject to available funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030099%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447804"}},{"id":"447803","reference":"AQW 30098/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-02","answerBy":"2025-09-17","answered":"2025-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he will introduce transparent performance reporting for red flag referrals across all specialities; and (ii) how his Department plans to rebuild public confidence in urgent referral pathways.","answerText":"Cancer waiting time targets in Northern Ireland aim for at least 98% of patients to start treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat, and at least 95% to start within 62 days of an urgent GP referral. Additionally, all urgent breast cancer referrals should be seen within 14 days.\n\nCurrent reporting on performance falls in line with these targets and is provided on a quarterly basis, available at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/cancer-waiting-times.\n\nWhilst actions 13 and 14 of the Cancer Strategy 2022-2032 refer to the introduction of a 28-day standard for suspected cancer and a review of current cancer targets respectively, there are no immediate plans to review cancer targets or performance reporting at this time.\n\nReducing waiting lists remains a key priority for me and my Department. The plan to tackle our elective care waiting lists is detailed in the Elective Care Framework that was updated and published again in May last year, available at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2025-05/doh-elective-care-framework-funding-plan-may-2025.PDF.\n\nMy Department continues to undertake work to rebuild public confidence in referral pathways and to tackle the unacceptable backlog of patients waiting. This has included the development of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres and mega clinics, which have collectively delivered tangible improvements to the waiting list position.","answerHtml":"Cancer waiting time targets in Northern Ireland aim for at least 98% of patients to start treatment within 31 days of a decision to treat, and at least 95% to start within 62 days of an urgent GP referral. Additionally, all urgent breast cancer referrals should be seen within 14 days.
Current reporting on performance falls in line with these targets and is provided on a quarterly basis, available at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/cancer-waiting-times.
Whilst actions 13 and 14 of the Cancer Strategy 2022-2032 refer to the introduction of a 28-day standard for suspected cancer and a review of current cancer targets respectively, there are no immediate plans to review cancer targets or performance reporting at this time.
Reducing waiting lists remains a key priority for me and my Department. The plan to tackle our elective care waiting lists is detailed in the Elective Care Framework that was updated and published again in May last year, available at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2025-05/doh-elective-care-framework-funding-plan-may-2025.PDF.
My Department continues to undertake work to rebuild public confidence in referral pathways and to tackle the unacceptable backlog of patients waiting. This has included the development of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres and mega clinics, which have collectively delivered tangible improvements to the waiting list position.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030098%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447803"}},{"id":"447802","reference":"AQW 30097/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-02","answerBy":"2025-09-17","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the average waiting times for red flag gynaecology referrals across all Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) what action is being taken to bring these within clinically-safe timescales.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030097%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447802"}},{"id":"447801","reference":"AQW 30096/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-02","answerBy":"2025-09-17","answered":"2025-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) what actions are being taken to address workforce shortages in diagnostic specialities, including radiology; and (ii) how this is being factored into long-term workforce planning.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts are responsible for ensuring sufficient staffing to provide those services commissioned from them by my Department. As employers they carry out day to day, operational workforce planning, including vacancy management, recruitment and retention.\n\nLong term, strategic workforce planning is led by my Department, in partnership with relevant stakeholders in health and social care. Diagnostic professions are included in both operational and strategic workforce planning.\n\nRegarding pathology, the Northern Ireland Regional Strategic Workforce Review in Pathology Services was published February 2025. Its aim is to provide a high-level picture of the current workforce and consider future requirements. Implementation of the Review’s 12 recommendations will depend on a number of factors, including availability of resources. A Regional Implementation Board has been established and tasked with prioritising these recommendations going forward.\n\nIn terms of clinical radiology, my Department has responded to increasing demand by expanding commissioned medical specialty training places from 37 (2015/16) to 55 places (2025/26) – a 49% increase.\n\nDiagnostic radiographers are also a key part of the imaging workforce. There has been progress in the last few years in securing additional funding to expand the number of diagnostic radiography training places within Ulster University, from 48 (2017/18) to 94 places – a 96% increase. This was secured following a workforce gap analysis, which included current and future predicted requirements for diagnostic radiography within the region.\n\nNevertheless, the imaging workforce in Northern Ireland continues to be constrained by insufficient numbers. A costed workforce plan for imaging services has been developed, which outlines requirements to bring training within imaging teams up to date over three to five years. However, currently this remains unfunded within the context of the known deficiencies in my budgetary allocation.\n\nPlans are underway for a multi-professional regional Imaging Academy. This will significantly increase HSC imaging capacity, by providing a continuous supply of locally trained consultant radiologists and advanced radiographer practitioners to address increasing demand for imaging investigations and reduce reliance on costly outsourcing. While this is a priority area for the Department, progress remains subject to business case approval and the identification of additional recurrent funding.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts are responsible for ensuring sufficient staffing to provide those services commissioned from them by my Department. As employers they carry out day to day, operational workforce planning, including vacancy management, recruitment and retention.
Long term, strategic workforce planning is led by my Department, in partnership with relevant stakeholders in health and social care. Diagnostic professions are included in both operational and strategic workforce planning.
Regarding pathology, the Northern Ireland Regional Strategic Workforce Review in Pathology Services was published February 2025. Its aim is to provide a high-level picture of the current workforce and consider future requirements. Implementation of the Review’s 12 recommendations will depend on a number of factors, including availability of resources. A Regional Implementation Board has been established and tasked with prioritising these recommendations going forward.
In terms of clinical radiology, my Department has responded to increasing demand by expanding commissioned medical specialty training places from 37 (2015/16) to 55 places (2025/26) – a 49% increase.
Diagnostic radiographers are also a key part of the imaging workforce. There has been progress in the last few years in securing additional funding to expand the number of diagnostic radiography training places within Ulster University, from 48 (2017/18) to 94 places – a 96% increase. This was secured following a workforce gap analysis, which included current and future predicted requirements for diagnostic radiography within the region.
Nevertheless, the imaging workforce in Northern Ireland continues to be constrained by insufficient numbers. A costed workforce plan for imaging services has been developed, which outlines requirements to bring training within imaging teams up to date over three to five years. However, currently this remains unfunded within the context of the known deficiencies in my budgetary allocation.
Plans are underway for a multi-professional regional Imaging Academy. This will significantly increase HSC imaging capacity, by providing a continuous supply of locally trained consultant radiologists and advanced radiographer practitioners to address increasing demand for imaging investigations and reduce reliance on costly outsourcing. While this is a priority area for the Department, progress remains subject to business case approval and the identification of additional recurrent funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030096%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447801","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447801"}},{"id":"447800","reference":"AQW 30095/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-02","answerBy":"2025-09-17","answered":"2025-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what measures are in place to ensure patients with urgent diagnostic needs, including MRI and CT scans, are seen consistently across all Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) whether his Department has identified reasons for disparity in waiting times between the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"The recently published Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards, and how we will transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future.\n\nAs part of the Implementation and Funding Plan, £12m has been secured to expand diagnostic imaging capacity across the region. This includes increasing capacity for CT, MRI and ultrasound. The current demand and capacity gaps in each Trust have been taken into consideration during this exercise. Newly commissioned CT and MRI scanners have also been funded at both the Southern Trust and Northern Trust’s Rapid Diagnosis Centres (RDCs) and are being utilised to image patients from across the region. Since becoming operational in 2025/26, the RDC’s CT capacity has already demonstrated a significant reduction in Trust variation. Weekly monitoring is in place to ensure all RDC capacity is currently utilised for the longest regional waits. The RDC MRI scanners are anticipated to be operational in the next few months.\n\nThe reasons contributing to disparity in imaging waiting times are multifactorial and vary across each Trust. The reasons include:\n\nHistorical funding gaps;\n\nDiagnostic radiographer workforce shortages;\n\nConsultant radiologist workforce shortages;\n\nCapital equipment;\n\nDemand variation;\n\nComplexity of workload.\n\nMy Department continues to work to increase imaging capacity, and a bid has been submitted for significant investment in regional imaging capital equipment. If successful, this will facilitate expansion of the imaging equipment base across all Trusts. However expansion will be subject to funding approval.","answerHtml":"The recently published Elective Care Framework Implementation and Funding Plan sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards, and how we will transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future.
As part of the Implementation and Funding Plan, £12m has been secured to expand diagnostic imaging capacity across the region. This includes increasing capacity for CT, MRI and ultrasound. The current demand and capacity gaps in each Trust have been taken into consideration during this exercise. Newly commissioned CT and MRI scanners have also been funded at both the Southern Trust and Northern Trust’s Rapid Diagnosis Centres (RDCs) and are being utilised to image patients from across the region. Since becoming operational in 2025/26, the RDC’s CT capacity has already demonstrated a significant reduction in Trust variation. Weekly monitoring is in place to ensure all RDC capacity is currently utilised for the longest regional waits. The RDC MRI scanners are anticipated to be operational in the next few months.
The reasons contributing to disparity in imaging waiting times are multifactorial and vary across each Trust. The reasons include:
Historical funding gaps;
Diagnostic radiographer workforce shortages;
Consultant radiologist workforce shortages;
Capital equipment;
Demand variation;
Complexity of workload.
My Department continues to work to increase imaging capacity, and a bid has been submitted for significant investment in regional imaging capital equipment. If successful, this will facilitate expansion of the imaging equipment base across all Trusts. However expansion will be subject to funding approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030095%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447800"}},{"id":"447705","reference":"AQW 30023/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-01","answerBy":"2025-09-16","answered":"2025-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) what cross-departmental arrangements are in place to ensure a joined-up response to algal blooms impacting East Londonderry; and (ii) what actions have been taken, or plan to be taken, to limit future algal blooms.","answerText":"The Interagency Blue Green Algae Monitoring Protocol has been developed and is being implemented operationally for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. My Department’s Interagency Protocol groups are currently established and are responding to reports of blue-green algae. Guidance is available in the Interagency Protocol which can be accessed at: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/inter-agency-blue-green-algae-monitoring-protocol\n\nThe Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan, agreed by the Executive in July 2024, contains science led actions to tackle the blue-green algae blooms in Lough Neagh and secure longer-term improvements in water quality across Northern Ireland. Of the 37 actions included in the plan, 14 have been completed, 22 are currently underway, and one is pending due to its reliance on another action being implemented.\n\nI remain fully committed to driving forward implementation of the Action Plan, working closely with other Departments, particularly the Department of Infrastructure and the Department of Justice, where their input is required.","answerHtml":"The Interagency Blue Green Algae Monitoring Protocol has been developed and is being implemented operationally for the 2024 and 2025 seasons. My Department’s Interagency Protocol groups are currently established and are responding to reports of blue-green algae. Guidance is available in the Interagency Protocol which can be accessed at: www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/inter-agency-blue-green-algae-monitoring-protocol
The Lough Neagh Report and Action Plan, agreed by the Executive in July 2024, contains science led actions to tackle the blue-green algae blooms in Lough Neagh and secure longer-term improvements in water quality across Northern Ireland. Of the 37 actions included in the plan, 14 have been completed, 22 are currently underway, and one is pending due to its reliance on another action being implemented.
I remain fully committed to driving forward implementation of the Action Plan, working closely with other Departments, particularly the Department of Infrastructure and the Department of Justice, where their input is required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030023%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447705"}},{"id":"447704","reference":"AQW 30022/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-01","answerBy":"2025-09-16","answered":"2025-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail what consideration his Department has given to introducing new incentive schemes for farmers in high-risk catchment areas to support locally-appropriate nature-based solutions, such as constructed wetlands or riparian planting, to improve water quality while sustaining family farms.","answerText":"Protecting and restoring our natural environment is one of my key priorities and my Department’s Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP) is incentivising enabling actions to support the scaling up of nature friendly farming, delivering environmental public goods including improvements in water quality, alongside sustainable food production.\n\nExamples of the schemes within SAP that will provide support for nature-based farming include: the Farming with Nature Package, the Farm Sustainability Payment, Farming for Sustainability - Knowledge Transfer, the Sustainable Farming Investment Scheme, and the Protein Crop Scheme.\n\nThe first phase of the Farming with Nature Package, the Farming with Nature Transition Scheme, launched in June 2025 to increase the extent of habitats on agricultural land by creating new habitats, protecting watercourses, providing green infrastructure for nature corridors and increasing\n\ncarbon sequestration.\n\nFive environmental actions were offered: planting new hedgerows, creating riparian buffer strips, farmland tree planting, retention of winter stubble and establishing multi-species winter cover crop. Supporting items available included protective fencing, gates and drinking water troughs.\n\nOther elements of the Farming with Nature Package, focusing on support for Designated Areas, Priority Habitats and Landscapes Projects are currently being progressed.\n\nThe Sustainable Catchment Programme (SCP) currently operates in five river catchments and aims to reduce agricultural pressures on water quality in these areas. The SCP is delivered by my Department in partnership with the Rivers Trust. It invites farmers to work with Rivers Trust advisors, to ensure the right measures are implemented in the right places on each individual farm to maximise both water quality and farm benefits. Interventions funded include nature based solutions such as creating riparian buffer zones and strategic tree and hedge planting which helps combat nutrient runoff, aid carbon sequestration, and enhance biodiversity. The expansion of the SCP into other catchments is currently being scoped as an action under the Lough Neagh Action Plan.","answerHtml":"Protecting and restoring our natural environment is one of my key priorities and my Department’s Sustainable Agriculture Programme (SAP) is incentivising enabling actions to support the scaling up of nature friendly farming, delivering environmental public goods including improvements in water quality, alongside sustainable food production.
Examples of the schemes within SAP that will provide support for nature-based farming include: the Farming with Nature Package, the Farm Sustainability Payment, Farming for Sustainability - Knowledge Transfer, the Sustainable Farming Investment Scheme, and the Protein Crop Scheme.
The first phase of the Farming with Nature Package, the Farming with Nature Transition Scheme, launched in June 2025 to increase the extent of habitats on agricultural land by creating new habitats, protecting watercourses, providing green infrastructure for nature corridors and increasing
carbon sequestration.
Five environmental actions were offered: planting new hedgerows, creating riparian buffer strips, farmland tree planting, retention of winter stubble and establishing multi-species winter cover crop. Supporting items available included protective fencing, gates and drinking water troughs.
Other elements of the Farming with Nature Package, focusing on support for Designated Areas, Priority Habitats and Landscapes Projects are currently being progressed.
The Sustainable Catchment Programme (SCP) currently operates in five river catchments and aims to reduce agricultural pressures on water quality in these areas. The SCP is delivered by my Department in partnership with the Rivers Trust. It invites farmers to work with Rivers Trust advisors, to ensure the right measures are implemented in the right places on each individual farm to maximise both water quality and farm benefits. Interventions funded include nature based solutions such as creating riparian buffer zones and strategic tree and hedge planting which helps combat nutrient runoff, aid carbon sequestration, and enhance biodiversity. The expansion of the SCP into other catchments is currently being scoped as an action under the Lough Neagh Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030022%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447704"}},{"id":"447703","reference":"AQW 30021/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-01","answerBy":"2025-09-16","answered":"2025-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail how her Department is working with other agencies to ensure wastewater and drainage systems do not contribute to nutrient build-up, leading to algal blooms affecting the River Bann and north coast beaches.","answerText":"In July 2024, the DAERA Lough Neagh Report and associated Action Plan was published and endorsed by the Executive, in response to the widespread levels of blue green algae in Lough Neagh. The River Bann flows through Lough Neagh and any consequential impact from blue green algae in Lough Neagh can manifest on the North Coast beaches.\n\nTo oversee the delivery of the actions in the Report, DAERA established the Lough Neagh Stakeholder forum in December 2024 and my Department continues to participate in this forum, alongside NI Water.\n\nAn action in the Report relates to the upgrade of wastewater treatment works around Lough Neagh and the investment needed to deliver this work has already been identified, as part of the Price Control process and is subject to budget availability.\n\nNutrient levels are reduced through the wastewater treatment processes. NI Water operates wastewater treatment works in accordance with consent discharge standards, set by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), undertaking an accredited programme of sampling, testing and reporting of wastewater quality to NIEA.\n\nDuring the bathing water season, NI Water also operates a protocol with DAERA for the immediate investigation of high bacterial levels detected in bathing water, to assist with the management of bathing water quality.\n\nFurthermore, for each Price Control, NI Water works closely with the environmental regulator, NIEA, to agree the priorities for wastewater investment to deliver water quality improvements, which includes consideration of any capital works upgrades to meet nutrient standards.","answerHtml":"In July 2024, the DAERA Lough Neagh Report and associated Action Plan was published and endorsed by the Executive, in response to the widespread levels of blue green algae in Lough Neagh. The River Bann flows through Lough Neagh and any consequential impact from blue green algae in Lough Neagh can manifest on the North Coast beaches.
To oversee the delivery of the actions in the Report, DAERA established the Lough Neagh Stakeholder forum in December 2024 and my Department continues to participate in this forum, alongside NI Water.
An action in the Report relates to the upgrade of wastewater treatment works around Lough Neagh and the investment needed to deliver this work has already been identified, as part of the Price Control process and is subject to budget availability.
Nutrient levels are reduced through the wastewater treatment processes. NI Water operates wastewater treatment works in accordance with consent discharge standards, set by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), undertaking an accredited programme of sampling, testing and reporting of wastewater quality to NIEA.
During the bathing water season, NI Water also operates a protocol with DAERA for the immediate investigation of high bacterial levels detected in bathing water, to assist with the management of bathing water quality.
Furthermore, for each Price Control, NI Water works closely with the environmental regulator, NIEA, to agree the priorities for wastewater investment to deliver water quality improvements, which includes consideration of any capital works upgrades to meet nutrient standards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030021%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447703","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447703"}},{"id":"447702","reference":"AQW 30020/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-01","answerBy":"2025-09-16","answered":"2025-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail what assessment her Department has made of the investment required to upgrade wastewater treatment infrastructure, to reduce nutrient discharges into rivers and coastal waters in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:\n\nDuring each Price Control, NI Water works closely with the environmental regulator, the NIEA, to agree the priorities for wastewater investment, to deliver water quality improvements, which includes consideration of any capital works upgrades to meet nutrient standards, such as ammonia and phosphorus limits.\n\nNI Water does not record its information by constituency. However, it has identified and set out below, the relevant wastewater schemes in the East Derry area which were identified for investment in the Price Control 21 Final Determination, subject to the availability of funding.\n\nRelevant Wastewater Schemes in the East Derry area\n\nAghanloo Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW)\n\nBallykelly WwTW\n\nDunloy WwTW\n\nDonnybrewer Drainage Area (DA) Eglinton Cottage Way Wastewater Pumping Station (WwPS)\n\nKilrea WwTW\n\nLimavady Catchment Upgrades\n\nLimavady DA - Bovally WwPS\n\nLimavady DA UID-Ballyclose Street CSO\n\nNorth Coast DA Ballycairn CSO CAI Playing Fields\n\nNorth Coast DA Strand Road WwPS\n\nRossbay & Caw Park, Storm Sewer Extension\n\nWest Area Essential Base Maintenance and Optimisation Year 5 and 6\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:
During each Price Control, NI Water works closely with the environmental regulator, the NIEA, to agree the priorities for wastewater investment, to deliver water quality improvements, which includes consideration of any capital works upgrades to meet nutrient standards, such as ammonia and phosphorus limits.
NI Water does not record its information by constituency. However, it has identified and set out below, the relevant wastewater schemes in the East Derry area which were identified for investment in the Price Control 21 Final Determination, subject to the availability of funding.
Relevant Wastewater Schemes in the East Derry area
Aghanloo Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTW)
Ballykelly WwTW
Dunloy WwTW
Donnybrewer Drainage Area (DA) Eglinton Cottage Way Wastewater Pumping Station (WwPS)
Kilrea WwTW
Limavady Catchment Upgrades
Limavady DA - Bovally WwPS
Limavady DA UID-Ballyclose Street CSO
North Coast DA Ballycairn CSO CAI Playing Fields
North Coast DA Strand Road WwPS
Rossbay & Caw Park, Storm Sewer Extension
West Area Essential Base Maintenance and Optimisation Year 5 and 6
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030020%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447702","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447702"}},{"id":"447701","reference":"AQW 30019/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-09-01","answerBy":"2025-09-16","answered":"2025-09-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what assessment her Department has made of the impact on (i) tourism; and (ii) hospitality businesses in East Londonderry, following recent beach closures such as at Benone Strand, due to toxic algal blooms.","answerText":"Through continued engagement with both businesses and with DAERA officials, Tourism NI is aware of the challenges presented by the recent algal blooms to tourism and hospitality businesses in the affected areas. It will remain a challenge and Tourism NI officials will continue to engage with DAERA colleagues on clear communications and information for visitors and potential mitigating actions.","answerHtml":"Through continued engagement with both businesses and with DAERA officials, Tourism NI is aware of the challenges presented by the recent algal blooms to tourism and hospitality businesses in the affected areas. It will remain a challenge and Tourism NI officials will continue to engage with DAERA colleagues on clear communications and information for visitors and potential mitigating actions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030019%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447701","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447701"}},{"id":"444727","reference":"AQW 29247/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what measures are in place to support pupils who experience food insecurity, but do not meet the current eligibility threshold, for free school meals.","answerText":"The Department continues to provide nutritious free school meals to children entitled to these meals during the school term to ensure families most in need get the support they require.\n\nFamilies who do not meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact the “Make the Call Service” to check if they are receiving all the benefits, services and supports that they are entitled to. Details of this service can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/make-call-service.","answerHtml":"The Department continues to provide nutritious free school meals to children entitled to these meals during the school term to ensure families most in need get the support they require.
Families who do not meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to contact the “Make the Call Service” to check if they are receiving all the benefits, services and supports that they are entitled to. Details of this service can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/contacts/make-call-service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444727","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444727"}},{"id":"444726","reference":"AQW 29246/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department intends to raise the upper age limit for eligibility for Disability Living Allowance for children from 16 to 18.","answerText":"This was a welfare reform proposal that was included in the UK Government’s recent Green Paper consultation exercise which closed on 30 June 2025. No decisions have yet been taken in relation to potential changes to the upper age limit in Disability Living Allowance for children.","answerHtml":"This was a welfare reform proposal that was included in the UK Government’s recent Green Paper consultation exercise which closed on 30 June 2025. No decisions have yet been taken in relation to potential changes to the upper age limit in Disability Living Allowance for children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029246%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444726"}},{"id":"444725","reference":"AQW 29245/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measures he is considering to protect Personal Independence Payment claimants affected by the proposed changes to daily living criteria.","answerText":"During the second reading of the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill in Parliament, the UK Government indicated that any future changes to the eligibility conditions for Personal Independence Payment will now be subject to the outcome of a review in relation to the assessment criteria.","answerHtml":"During the second reading of the Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill in Parliament, the UK Government indicated that any future changes to the eligibility conditions for Personal Independence Payment will now be subject to the outcome of a review in relation to the assessment criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029245%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444725"}},{"id":"444724","reference":"AQW 29244/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-25","answerBy":"2025-07-10","answered":"2025-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many school-age children live in households receiving Universal Credit, but do not currently qualify for free school meals.","answerText":"The department does not hold information on households receiving or not receiving Universal Credit. The Department collects pupil-level data on free school meal entitlement (FSME) through the annual School Census. These pupils have been confirmed as ‘entitled’ following completion of the Education Authority’s FSM application process.","answerHtml":"The department does not hold information on households receiving or not receiving Universal Credit. The Department collects pupil-level data on free school meal entitlement (FSME) through the annual School Census. These pupils have been confirmed as ‘entitled’ following completion of the Education Authority’s FSM application process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029244%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444724"}},{"id":"444504","reference":"AQW 29176/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-24","answerBy":"2025-07-09","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what fertility treatments are currently publicly-funded in each Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) how access and provision compare with those available in other UK regions.","answerText":"My Department commissions fertility services from the Regional Fertility Centre in Belfast Trust for the population of Northern Ireland. Fertility services within local Health and Social Care Trusts are provided as part of the gynaecology service for women rather than commissioned separately and are dependent on skilled staff availability and capacity, in particular, consultants with a specialist interest in fertility services.\n\nPatients accessing local fertility services are assessed on a case by case basis, the next stage in the treatment pathway is dependent on multiple factors such as whether or not there is a need for surgical intervention/investigations, onward referral to the Regional Fertility Centre in Belfast HSC Trust, or if the patient is deemed suitable to commence ovulation induction treatment (if offered in the local Trust).\n\nI outline below fertility treatments which are available in each Trust:\n\nBHSCT\tFertility services to local population\nBaseline investigations are carried out\nSemen analysis\nRegional Fertility Centre (tertiary referrals) providing treatments including 1 full IVF cycle; ICSI; Donor IUI; Fertility preservation (oncology and gender reassignment)\nNHSCT\tNo dedicated fertility service / do not offer fertility treatments\nBaseline investigations are carried out\nSET\tConsultant clinic\nBaseline investigations are carried out\nTreatments include ovulation induction\nSHSCT\tConsultant triage / Nurse led fertility clinic\nBaseline investigations are carried out\nTreatments include ovulation induction\nWHSCT\tFertility/ reproductive outpatient clinic provision (part time Consultant / nurse)\nBaseline investigations are carried out\nTreatments include Ovulation induction\n\n(ii) How access and provision compare with those available in other UK regions\n\nAs can be seen in the detail above, there is variation in the provision of fertility treatment in HSC Trusts.\n\nMy Department is actively overseeing gynaecology service improvement and pathway development at both a local and regional level as outlined in the recommendations arising from the recent Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology. As part of this remit my Department are actively working with Trusts and General Practice to consider the current fertility services pathways from general practice through to secondary and tertiary care. My Department will seek to ensure that pathways to the Regional Fertility Centre are timely and appropriate, given the time-sensitive nature of this service and that there is equity of access for women from across the region.\n\nI understand that there are varying levels of provision across other regions the UK which have endorsed the NICE CG156 or equivalent guidelines which are primarily due to issues of capacity and affordability.\n\nMy Department is working closely with Belfast Trust to explore the necessary additional capacity and funding within the Regional Fertility Centre to deliver on the commitment to providing up to three IVF cycles (in line with NICE CG156) in the New Decade, New Approach (NDNA) agreement in 2020. This additional capacity is subject to business case approval and the prioritisation of funding within the overall health and social care budget.\n\nIn Wales up to two full cycles of publicly funded treatment for women who meet the eligibility criteria is offered.\n\nScotland offers up to three full cycles for eligible women.\n\nService provision within England varies greatly, in some areas up to three cycles for eligible couples is offered whilst most other areas offer only 1 publicly funded cycle. In some areas there are no publicly funded cycles offered.","answerHtml":"My Department commissions fertility services from the Regional Fertility Centre in Belfast Trust for the population of Northern Ireland. Fertility services within local Health and Social Care Trusts are provided as part of the gynaecology service for women rather than commissioned separately and are dependent on skilled staff availability and capacity, in particular, consultants with a specialist interest in fertility services.
Patients accessing local fertility services are assessed on a case by case basis, the next stage in the treatment pathway is dependent on multiple factors such as whether or not there is a need for surgical intervention/investigations, onward referral to the Regional Fertility Centre in Belfast HSC Trust, or if the patient is deemed suitable to commence ovulation induction treatment (if offered in the local Trust).
I outline below fertility treatments which are available in each Trust:
| BHSCT | Fertility services to local population Baseline investigations are carried out Semen analysis Regional Fertility Centre (tertiary referrals) providing treatments including 1 full IVF cycle; ICSI; Donor IUI; Fertility preservation (oncology and gender reassignment) |
| NHSCT | No dedicated fertility service / do not offer fertility treatments Baseline investigations are carried out |
| SET | Consultant clinic Baseline investigations are carried out Treatments include ovulation induction |
| SHSCT | Consultant triage / Nurse led fertility clinic Baseline investigations are carried out Treatments include ovulation induction |
| WHSCT | Fertility/ reproductive outpatient clinic provision (part time Consultant / nurse) Baseline investigations are carried out Treatments include Ovulation induction |
(ii) How access and provision compare with those available in other UK regions
As can be seen in the detail above, there is variation in the provision of fertility treatment in HSC Trusts.
My Department is actively overseeing gynaecology service improvement and pathway development at both a local and regional level as outlined in the recommendations arising from the recent Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology. As part of this remit my Department are actively working with Trusts and General Practice to consider the current fertility services pathways from general practice through to secondary and tertiary care. My Department will seek to ensure that pathways to the Regional Fertility Centre are timely and appropriate, given the time-sensitive nature of this service and that there is equity of access for women from across the region.
I understand that there are varying levels of provision across other regions the UK which have endorsed the NICE CG156 or equivalent guidelines which are primarily due to issues of capacity and affordability.
My Department is working closely with Belfast Trust to explore the necessary additional capacity and funding within the Regional Fertility Centre to deliver on the commitment to providing up to three IVF cycles (in line with NICE CG156) in the New Decade, New Approach (NDNA) agreement in 2020. This additional capacity is subject to business case approval and the prioritisation of funding within the overall health and social care budget.
In Wales up to two full cycles of publicly funded treatment for women who meet the eligibility criteria is offered.
Scotland offers up to three full cycles for eligible women.
Service provision within England varies greatly, in some areas up to three cycles for eligible couples is offered whilst most other areas offer only 1 publicly funded cycle. In some areas there are no publicly funded cycles offered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029176%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444504"}},{"id":"444503","reference":"AQW 29175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-24","answerBy":"2025-07-09","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what assessment has been made of progress in reducing stillbirth and neonatal mortality rates since 2010; and (ii) how these outcomes compare with other UK regions.","answerText":"Along with the other UK administrations, the Department funds the Health Care Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP) to commission the Clinical Outcome Review Programmes (CORP), which includes the Maternal, Newborn and Infant Programme provided by MBRRACE-UK (Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK). The aim of the programme is to provide robust information to support the delivery of safe, equitable, high quality, patient-centred maternal, newborn and infant health services. MBRRACE-UK achieves this by:\n\nSurveillance of all maternal deaths\n\nConfidential enquiries into maternal deaths during and up to one year after the end of the pregnancy\n\nConfidential enquiries into cases of serious maternal morbidity on a rolling basis\n\nSurveillance of perinatal deaths including late fetal losses (22-23 weeks gestation), stillbirths and neonatal deaths\n\nConfidential enquiries into stillbirths, infant deaths and cases of serious infant morbidity on a rolling basis\n\nThe most recent MBRRACE-UK report is published at this link https://timms.le.ac.uk/mbrrace-uk-perinatal-mortality/surveillance/#perinatal-mortality-in-the-uk\n\nFigure 1 in the report shows the Stillbirth, neonatal and extended perinatal mortality rates for the UK and by country of residence, 2013 to 2023.\n\nExtended perinatal mortality rates decreased across the UK in 2023 (UK extended perinatal mortality rate: 4.84 per 1,000 total births). The long-term reduction in perinatal mortality is driven largely by a reduction in stillbirths.\n\nCompared with rates in 2022, stillbirth rates per 1,000 total births in 2023 were lower across the UK: 3.22 (UK); 3.27 (England); 2.95 (Scotland); 3.32 (Wales); and 2.51 (Northern Ireland).\n\nThere were decreases in the neonatal mortality rate per 1,000 live births in England, Wales and Northern Ireland compared with 2022: 1.63 (UK); 1.62 (England); 1.61 (Scotland); 1.79 (Wales); and 1.66 (Northern Ireland).\n\nAs would be expected, the highest numbers of deaths are associated with babies born in the regional maternity unit in Belfast Trust. Like elsewhere in the UK, in Northern Ireland the mothers of the smallest and sickest babies are normally transferred to the regional neonatal intensive care unit at the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital (RJMH) Belfast. On most occasions the transfer will take place antenatally with the result that baby is both born and dies in RJMH. The largest burden of neonatal mortality is therefore associated with tertiary units.\n\nImplementation of guidance on assessment of signs of life before 24 weeks is continuing to ensure that there is consistency in reporting of neonatal deaths.\n\nTraining and funding (£25K recurrent funding per HSC Trust in Northern Ireland) has been provided to support Trusts to develop skills and embed processes for timely multidisciplinary review of all perinatal deaths using a standardised tool (PMRT). A process being established to facilitate PMRT reporting at regional level via the Public Health Agency (PHA).\n\nAn audit (using confidential enquiry approach and external review) has been coordinated by the PHA to support quality assurance of perinatal mortality review.\n\nIn 2021, each Trust received funding allocation for a Band 7 Risk Midwife through the Delivering Care process to support perinatal mortality surveillance and review processes.\n\nParents’ decisions around post-mortem continue to be supported. A formal evaluation of paediatric and perinatal pathology service with Alder Hey is underway including externally commissioned work to seek views from families.\n\nA Saving Babies’ Lives group has been established. Two sub-groups have been formed specifically to look at fetal growth and reducing pre-term birth. Surveillance of pre-term birth is included in the work plan.\n\nA review of recommendations contained in a series of MBRRACE reports published from 2017 has been undertaken. A workshop took place in December 2023 that considered the outcome of stakeholder engagement and the key themes of non-compliant recommendations. A composite database and action plan has been developed to include NICE, MBRRACE-UK, RQIA and other CMO and CNO endorsed recommendations.\n\nThe RQIA report was published on 31 May 2023 and accepted in principle by CMO. Following an audit of compliance levels across a range of recommendations a letter was issued to Trusts to clarify that they should implement the RQIA's recommendations without delay. Implementation of these recommendations is being monitored by the new Women’s and Children’s Planning Team.\n\nSerios Adverse Incidents have been reviewed by a weekly incident review group for any urgent action and no major safety issues have been highlighted. This area of work is also being considered as part of Safety and Governance Processes.\n\nThe need for a regional maternity and newborn partnership has been identified.\n\nAbortion services are now available in all five hospital Trusts which enable most of the demand to be met locally. Medical abortion is available in all circumstances as set out in the 2020 Regulations. Demand shows that a high percentage of all abortions undertaken in NI are managed in the early medical abortion and vacuum aspiration service (below 12 weeks) available in all 5 Trusts. Surgical abortion is available for up to 20 weeks gestation and work is ongoing to expand this service to pregnancies up to 23+6 days in late September. Women requiring access to this service can continue to access free abortion care in Great Britain via a service level agreement managed by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerHtml":"Along with the other UK administrations, the Department funds the Health Care Quality Improvement Partnership (HQIP) to commission the Clinical Outcome Review Programmes (CORP), which includes the Maternal, Newborn and Infant Programme provided by MBRRACE-UK (Mothers and Babies: Reducing Risk through Audits and Confidential Enquiries across the UK). The aim of the programme is to provide robust information to support the delivery of safe, equitable, high quality, patient-centred maternal, newborn and infant health services. MBRRACE-UK achieves this by:
Surveillance of all maternal deaths
Confidential enquiries into maternal deaths during and up to one year after the end of the pregnancy
Confidential enquiries into cases of serious maternal morbidity on a rolling basis
Surveillance of perinatal deaths including late fetal losses (22-23 weeks gestation), stillbirths and neonatal deaths
Confidential enquiries into stillbirths, infant deaths and cases of serious infant morbidity on a rolling basis
The most recent MBRRACE-UK report is published at this link https://timms.le.ac.uk/mbrrace-uk-perinatal-mortality/surveillance/#perinatal-mortality-in-the-uk
Figure 1 in the report shows the Stillbirth, neonatal and extended perinatal mortality rates for the UK and by country of residence, 2013 to 2023.
Extended perinatal mortality rates decreased across the UK in 2023 (UK extended perinatal mortality rate: 4.84 per 1,000 total births). The long-term reduction in perinatal mortality is driven largely by a reduction in stillbirths.
Compared with rates in 2022, stillbirth rates per 1,000 total births in 2023 were lower across the UK: 3.22 (UK); 3.27 (England); 2.95 (Scotland); 3.32 (Wales); and 2.51 (Northern Ireland).
There were decreases in the neonatal mortality rate per 1,000 live births in England, Wales and Northern Ireland compared with 2022: 1.63 (UK); 1.62 (England); 1.61 (Scotland); 1.79 (Wales); and 1.66 (Northern Ireland).
As would be expected, the highest numbers of deaths are associated with babies born in the regional maternity unit in Belfast Trust. Like elsewhere in the UK, in Northern Ireland the mothers of the smallest and sickest babies are normally transferred to the regional neonatal intensive care unit at the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital (RJMH) Belfast. On most occasions the transfer will take place antenatally with the result that baby is both born and dies in RJMH. The largest burden of neonatal mortality is therefore associated with tertiary units.
Implementation of guidance on assessment of signs of life before 24 weeks is continuing to ensure that there is consistency in reporting of neonatal deaths.
Training and funding (£25K recurrent funding per HSC Trust in Northern Ireland) has been provided to support Trusts to develop skills and embed processes for timely multidisciplinary review of all perinatal deaths using a standardised tool (PMRT). A process being established to facilitate PMRT reporting at regional level via the Public Health Agency (PHA).
An audit (using confidential enquiry approach and external review) has been coordinated by the PHA to support quality assurance of perinatal mortality review.
In 2021, each Trust received funding allocation for a Band 7 Risk Midwife through the Delivering Care process to support perinatal mortality surveillance and review processes.
Parents’ decisions around post-mortem continue to be supported. A formal evaluation of paediatric and perinatal pathology service with Alder Hey is underway including externally commissioned work to seek views from families.
A Saving Babies’ Lives group has been established. Two sub-groups have been formed specifically to look at fetal growth and reducing pre-term birth. Surveillance of pre-term birth is included in the work plan.
A review of recommendations contained in a series of MBRRACE reports published from 2017 has been undertaken. A workshop took place in December 2023 that considered the outcome of stakeholder engagement and the key themes of non-compliant recommendations. A composite database and action plan has been developed to include NICE, MBRRACE-UK, RQIA and other CMO and CNO endorsed recommendations.
The RQIA report was published on 31 May 2023 and accepted in principle by CMO. Following an audit of compliance levels across a range of recommendations a letter was issued to Trusts to clarify that they should implement the RQIA's recommendations without delay. Implementation of these recommendations is being monitored by the new Women’s and Children’s Planning Team.
Serios Adverse Incidents have been reviewed by a weekly incident review group for any urgent action and no major safety issues have been highlighted. This area of work is also being considered as part of Safety and Governance Processes.
The need for a regional maternity and newborn partnership has been identified.
Abortion services are now available in all five hospital Trusts which enable most of the demand to be met locally. Medical abortion is available in all circumstances as set out in the 2020 Regulations. Demand shows that a high percentage of all abortions undertaken in NI are managed in the early medical abortion and vacuum aspiration service (below 12 weeks) available in all 5 Trusts. Surgical abortion is available for up to 20 weeks gestation and work is ongoing to expand this service to pregnancies up to 23+6 days in late September. Women requiring access to this service can continue to access free abortion care in Great Britain via a service level agreement managed by the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444503"}},{"id":"444502","reference":"AQW 29174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-24","answerBy":"2025-07-09","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department plans to introduce formal targets to reduce stillbirth, neonatal death, and extended perinatal mortality in line with other UK regions.","answerText":"There are currently no plans to introduce formal targets to reduce stillbirth, neonatal death, and extended perinatal mortality in NI.\n\nAs you will be aware, there is a focus via the adaption of the Savings Babies Lives care bundles version 3 developed by NHS England, to reduce stillbirths and neonatal deaths by improving the health of pregnant women and identifying areas of care where there is evidence or best practice aimed at reducing perinatal mortality.\n\nThe care bundle consists of 5 elements:\n\nElement 1: smoking cessation\n\nElement 2: fetal growth restriction\n\nElement 3: reduced fetal movements\n\nElement 4: fetal monitoring\n\nElement 5: prevention of preterm birth.\n\nAll stillbirth, neonatal death, and extended perinatal mortality rates in NI continue to be reported via the MBRRACE- UK perinatal programme. The programme conducts national surveillance of all eligible late fetal losses, stillbirths and neonatal deaths in the UK. It also conducts confidential enquiries on selected topics related to perinatal mortality and serious infant morbidity.","answerHtml":"There are currently no plans to introduce formal targets to reduce stillbirth, neonatal death, and extended perinatal mortality in NI.
As you will be aware, there is a focus via the adaption of the Savings Babies Lives care bundles version 3 developed by NHS England, to reduce stillbirths and neonatal deaths by improving the health of pregnant women and identifying areas of care where there is evidence or best practice aimed at reducing perinatal mortality.
The care bundle consists of 5 elements:
Element 1: smoking cessation
Element 2: fetal growth restriction
Element 3: reduced fetal movements
Element 4: fetal monitoring
Element 5: prevention of preterm birth.
All stillbirth, neonatal death, and extended perinatal mortality rates in NI continue to be reported via the MBRRACE- UK perinatal programme. The programme conducts national surveillance of all eligible late fetal losses, stillbirths and neonatal deaths in the UK. It also conducts confidential enquiries on selected topics related to perinatal mortality and serious infant morbidity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444502"}},{"id":"444501","reference":"AQW 29173/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-24","answerBy":"2025-07-09","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will introduce miscarriage registration to improve data collection and inform future policies.","answerText":"There is currently no legal provision for the registration of miscarriage, which is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before 24 completed weeks of gestation. Legislation underpinning the requirements around registration falls under the remit of the Department of Finance (DoF).","answerHtml":"There is currently no legal provision for the registration of miscarriage, which is defined as the loss of a pregnancy before 24 completed weeks of gestation. Legislation underpinning the requirements around registration falls under the remit of the Department of Finance (DoF).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444501","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444501"}},{"id":"444500","reference":"AQW 29172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-24","answerBy":"2025-07-09","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what emotional and psychological support services are available across Health and Social Care Trusts for individuals and couples who experience miscarriage.","answerText":"The Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. Each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts provides a range of support services, which may include:\n\n- Bereavement Midwives: Specially trained midwives are available in many Trusts to provide compassionate, one-to-one support following miscarriage or baby loss.\n\n- Counselling Services: Trusts offer access to psychological therapies, either directly or through referral, to support individuals experiencing grief, trauma, or mental health challenges following pregnancy loss.\n\n- Referral Pathways: Health professionals can refer patients to external organisations such as the Miscarriage Association, SANDS, and Cruse Bereavement Support, which offer specialised resources and peer support.\n\n- Early Pregnancy Units (EPUs): These units often serve as the first point of contact for women experiencing miscarriage and can provide immediate emotional support and follow-up care.\n\n- Information and Signposting: Trusts provide written and digital resources to help individuals understand their options and access further support.\n\nIn addition, my Department is actively supporting the development of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for Northern Ireland. This initiative, currently under public consultation, aims to offer formal recognition of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, acknowledging the emotional significance of such losses.\n\nFurthermore, my Department is considering options to progress with the establishment of a Maternity and Neonatal Partnership, which will oversee the implementation of a regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.\n\nWe remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health recognises the profound emotional impact that pregnancy loss can have on individuals and families. Each of the five Health and Social Care Trusts provides a range of support services, which may include:
- Bereavement Midwives: Specially trained midwives are available in many Trusts to provide compassionate, one-to-one support following miscarriage or baby loss.
- Counselling Services: Trusts offer access to psychological therapies, either directly or through referral, to support individuals experiencing grief, trauma, or mental health challenges following pregnancy loss.
- Referral Pathways: Health professionals can refer patients to external organisations such as the Miscarriage Association, SANDS, and Cruse Bereavement Support, which offer specialised resources and peer support.
- Early Pregnancy Units (EPUs): These units often serve as the first point of contact for women experiencing miscarriage and can provide immediate emotional support and follow-up care.
- Information and Signposting: Trusts provide written and digital resources to help individuals understand their options and access further support.
In addition, my Department is actively supporting the development of a Baby Loss Certificate Scheme for Northern Ireland. This initiative, currently under public consultation, aims to offer formal recognition of pregnancy loss before 24 weeks’ gestation, acknowledging the emotional significance of such losses.
Furthermore, my Department is considering options to progress with the establishment of a Maternity and Neonatal Partnership, which will oversee the implementation of a regional action plan to improve maternity care, including bereavement support. This work is informed by the recent independent review of midwifery services and reflects our commitment to ensuring that all women and families receive safe, respectful, and compassionate care.
We remain committed to listening to those with lived experience and to ensuring that support services are accessible, equitable, and responsive to the needs of all who experience pregnancy loss.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444500"}},{"id":"444261","reference":"AQW 29109/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-23","answerBy":"2025-07-08","answered":"2025-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) what mechanisms are in place to ensure that Business Improvement Districts are accountable to all businesses within their area, particularly small and independent traders; and (ii) what recourse is available to businesses that feel their interests are not being represented.","answerText":"Individual Business Improvement District Management Boards have their own avenues for complaints and feedback and Levy payers have opportunities to scrutinise the performance of the Board. Council officials can also be asked to mediate for more serious complaints. A business owner can also vote for the renewal of a Business Improvement District’s term of office.","answerHtml":"Individual Business Improvement District Management Boards have their own avenues for complaints and feedback and Levy payers have opportunities to scrutinise the performance of the Board. Council officials can also be asked to mediate for more serious complaints. A business owner can also vote for the renewal of a Business Improvement District’s term of office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029109%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444261","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444261"}},{"id":"444260","reference":"AQW 29108/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-23","answerBy":"2025-07-08","answered":"2025-09-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what guidance his Department provides to local councils to ensure that Business Improvement District proposals and operations are inclusive of the full business community.","answerText":"The Department does not provide specific guidance to BIDs but they are governed by the Business Improvement Districts Act (Northern Ireland) 2013, the Business Improvement Districts (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014 and The Business Improvement Districts (Miscellaneous) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014.\n\nBIDs should be controlled and managed by local businesses that are paying the levy. Most BIDs are delivered through Companies Limited by Guarantee with Directors elected from the BID levy payers. This organisation will be responsible for the delivery of the BID projects and directly responsible to all its business membership through an elected board.","answerHtml":"The Department does not provide specific guidance to BIDs but they are governed by the Business Improvement Districts Act (Northern Ireland) 2013, the Business Improvement Districts (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014 and The Business Improvement Districts (Miscellaneous) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014.
BIDs should be controlled and managed by local businesses that are paying the levy. Most BIDs are delivered through Companies Limited by Guarantee with Directors elected from the BID levy payers. This organisation will be responsible for the delivery of the BID projects and directly responsible to all its business membership through an elected board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029108%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444260"}},{"id":"444259","reference":"AQW 29107/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-23","answerBy":"2025-07-08","answered":"2025-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether businesses in financial hardship can apply for relief from Business Improvement District levies.","answerText":"Businesses experiencing financial hardship cannot apply for relief from Business Improvement District levies.","answerHtml":"Businesses experiencing financial hardship cannot apply for relief from Business Improvement District levies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029107%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444259","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444259"}},{"id":"444258","reference":"AQW 29106/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-23","answerBy":"2025-07-08","answered":"2025-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what role his Department plays in the administration or oversight of Business Improvement District levies.","answerText":"The administration and oversight of Business Improvement District levies is undertaken by the relevant Business Improvement District board.","answerHtml":"The administration and oversight of Business Improvement District levies is undertaken by the relevant Business Improvement District board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029106%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444258"}},{"id":"444257","reference":"AQW 29105/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-23","answerBy":"2025-07-08","answered":"2025-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline what policies and procedures are in place to hold boards of governors to account when a member is found to have acted unlawfully or engaged in misconduct in a way that could undermine equality or inclusion within the school community.","answerText":"All governors, once appointed, are a member of the body corporate; decisions are made collectively either by the board or by a committee thereof in accordance with the school’s scheme of management. As a corporate body, the Board of Governors is legally liable for all decisions and actions taken in its name by a governor (and the Principal) or committees to which it has delegated functions.\n\nGovernors are expected to work together to fulfil the Board of Governors statutory functions in relation to the school. The Board of Governors is accountable for ensuring that its decisions support the best interests of the school and its pupils. It must also ensure that its decisions are consistent with the principles of corporate and collective responsibility as per Chapter 2 para 2.36 and 2.37 of the Governors Guide, and the ‘Policies, Schemes and Procedures required by schools’ which are listed within Appendix 3 of the guide.\n\nResponsibility for taking decisions on school-based matters (including complaints) normally rests with the Board of Governors, unless there has been a failure on the part of the Board of Governors to comply with some requirement in education legislation. Investigating and responding to complaints about schools is the responsibility of each school’s governing body.\n\nIf the complaints procedure has been exhausted, there is a right to refer the matter to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will, however, only consider a case once the school’s internal complaints process has been fully exhausted.","answerHtml":"All governors, once appointed, are a member of the body corporate; decisions are made collectively either by the board or by a committee thereof in accordance with the school’s scheme of management. As a corporate body, the Board of Governors is legally liable for all decisions and actions taken in its name by a governor (and the Principal) or committees to which it has delegated functions.
Governors are expected to work together to fulfil the Board of Governors statutory functions in relation to the school. The Board of Governors is accountable for ensuring that its decisions support the best interests of the school and its pupils. It must also ensure that its decisions are consistent with the principles of corporate and collective responsibility as per Chapter 2 para 2.36 and 2.37 of the Governors Guide, and the ‘Policies, Schemes and Procedures required by schools’ which are listed within Appendix 3 of the guide.
Responsibility for taking decisions on school-based matters (including complaints) normally rests with the Board of Governors, unless there has been a failure on the part of the Board of Governors to comply with some requirement in education legislation. Investigating and responding to complaints about schools is the responsibility of each school’s governing body.
If the complaints procedure has been exhausted, there is a right to refer the matter to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman. The Ombudsman will, however, only consider a case once the school’s internal complaints process has been fully exhausted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029105%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444257"}},{"id":"445186","reference":"AQO 2246/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-19","answerBy":"2025-06-30","answered":"2025-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he will consider a pilot programme of farmer-led nutrient management approaches ahead of finalising the Nutrients Action Programme 2026–2029.","answerText":"I am keen to hear all views on how best to finalise the proposals for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2026–2029.\n\nIt is essential that we work together to move forward with improving water quality. I welcome constructive input from stakeholders, so that I can consider how we can collaboratively reverse the decline in water quality.\n\nI would encourage anyone with an interest in the NAP to provide their feedback through the consultation process. If they have any alternative suggestions to the proposed measures, these can be submitted along with supporting evidence.\n\nOne of the proposals included within the consultation is for a pilot focused approach, in specific high-risk areas with focused measures. The consultation responses on this proposal will help inform how this focused approach is taken forward.\n\nAs I stated in the Assembly on 10 June the NAP proposals are just that, no final decisions have been made. The consultation process and further stakeholder engagement will feed into any final decisions on the NAP for 2026-2029.\n\nI am listening to the genuine concerns and my officials and I will continue to engage with stakeholders during the consultation period.","answerHtml":"I am keen to hear all views on how best to finalise the proposals for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2026–2029.
It is essential that we work together to move forward with improving water quality. I welcome constructive input from stakeholders, so that I can consider how we can collaboratively reverse the decline in water quality.
I would encourage anyone with an interest in the NAP to provide their feedback through the consultation process. If they have any alternative suggestions to the proposed measures, these can be submitted along with supporting evidence.
One of the proposals included within the consultation is for a pilot focused approach, in specific high-risk areas with focused measures. The consultation responses on this proposal will help inform how this focused approach is taken forward.
As I stated in the Assembly on 10 June the NAP proposals are just that, no final decisions have been made. The consultation process and further stakeholder engagement will feed into any final decisions on the NAP for 2026-2029.
I am listening to the genuine concerns and my officials and I will continue to engage with stakeholders during the consultation period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202246%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=445186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=445186"}},{"id":"443462","reference":"AQW 28758/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department plans to review the aspects of the Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 which address the obligations of landlords and tenants.","answerText":"I have no plans to review the Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 during the mandate.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to review the Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 during the mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028758%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443462"}},{"id":"443461","reference":"AQW 28757/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department has assessed how leaseholder protections compare with those in England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"The detailed scoping report to which I referred in the answer to AQW 28755 contains an assessment of leaseholder protections in these jurisdictions. Those differences will form part of the consideration of any future policy development on this issue.","answerHtml":"The detailed scoping report to which I referred in the answer to AQW 28755 contains an assessment of leaseholder protections in these jurisdictions. Those differences will form part of the consideration of any future policy development on this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028757%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443461"}},{"id":"443460","reference":"AQW 28756/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any (i) support; and (ii) hardship measures, which are available for leaseholders who are unable to pay high service charges issued by the Housing Executive for major works.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 28756/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 28756/22-27, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028756%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443460"}},{"id":"443459","reference":"AQW 28755/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will consider establishing an independent tribunal or disputes resolution service for leaseholders to challenge service charges without needing to go through the courts.","answerText":"The detailed scoping report to which I referred in the answer to AQW 28755 contains an assessment of leaseholder protections in these jurisdictions. Those differences will form part of the consideration of any future policy development on this issue.","answerHtml":"The detailed scoping report to which I referred in the answer to AQW 28755 contains an assessment of leaseholder protections in these jurisdictions. Those differences will form part of the consideration of any future policy development on this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028755%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443459"}},{"id":"443458","reference":"AQW 28754/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-16","answerBy":"2025-07-01","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail: (i) any performance standards or timeframes which are in place to regulate how long major works should take in leasehold buildings; and (ii) how leaseholders can raise concerns about delays.","answerText":"There are no specific statutory performance standards or timeframes applicable. However, landlords still have legal duties under lease terms, common law principles and, potentially, general contract law. Adherence to health and safety standards, building control regulations and planning approvals may also be relevant.\n\nLeaseholders may raise concerns based on such lease terms or common law duties, and should check their lease carefully, asking for information relating to such work from their landlord or managing agent. If necessary, legal advice should be sought, or alternatively, Housing Rights NI can provide assistance in relation to concerns raised.","answerHtml":"There are no specific statutory performance standards or timeframes applicable. However, landlords still have legal duties under lease terms, common law principles and, potentially, general contract law. Adherence to health and safety standards, building control regulations and planning approvals may also be relevant.
Leaseholders may raise concerns based on such lease terms or common law duties, and should check their lease carefully, asking for information relating to such work from their landlord or managing agent. If necessary, legal advice should be sought, or alternatively, Housing Rights NI can provide assistance in relation to concerns raised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028754%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443458"}},{"id":"444553","reference":"AQO 2224/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-12","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline any action her Department is taking to address online abuse as a form of coercive control.","answerText":"ORAL QUESTION No 12 - AQO 2224/22-27\n\nANSWER\n\nAt the outset I should explain that telecommunications legislation, including the regulation of social media platforms, is a reserved matter and, therefore, responsibility rests with the UK Government. However, my Department has always sought to take a proactive approach towards supporting online safety, and I too remain committed to playing my part in addressing this issue.\n\nThe domestic abuse offence, which I brought forward through the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, covers online and technological abuse where abusers exploit the use of technology, social media or other online means to control or coerce someone that they are personally connected to. This legislation ensures that repeated acts of abuse can be prosecuted effectively and I would encourage anyone experiencing this type of abuse to report it to the police.\n\nThe Online Safety Act 2023 introduced new UK-wide laws that protect both children and adults from online harm by creating a new regulatory framework for online platforms and search services. It puts the onus on service providers to take measures to protect all users from illegal content and to also protect children from harmful content and activity. Illegal content includes harassment, stalking, controlling or coercive behaviour and intimate image abuse.\n\nThe Act also created two new communication offences, a false communications offence and a threatening communications offence.\n\nIn addition, the action plan for the new seven year Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which I jointly published with the Health Minister last September, contains an action, which is led by the Department of Health, to continue to implement actions arising from the Online Safety Strategy to empower children and young people, parents/carers and those working with children and young people to recognise, prevent and respond to abusive behaviours online.\n\nI understand that one initiative under this Online Safety Strategy has led to the development of an Online Safety Hub, which offers clear guidance on healthy relationships and helps users, including young people, identify signs of abuse, including coercive control.","answerHtml":"ORAL QUESTION No 12 - AQO 2224/22-27
ANSWER
At the outset I should explain that telecommunications legislation, including the regulation of social media platforms, is a reserved matter and, therefore, responsibility rests with the UK Government. However, my Department has always sought to take a proactive approach towards supporting online safety, and I too remain committed to playing my part in addressing this issue.
The domestic abuse offence, which I brought forward through the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, covers online and technological abuse where abusers exploit the use of technology, social media or other online means to control or coerce someone that they are personally connected to. This legislation ensures that repeated acts of abuse can be prosecuted effectively and I would encourage anyone experiencing this type of abuse to report it to the police.
The Online Safety Act 2023 introduced new UK-wide laws that protect both children and adults from online harm by creating a new regulatory framework for online platforms and search services. It puts the onus on service providers to take measures to protect all users from illegal content and to also protect children from harmful content and activity. Illegal content includes harassment, stalking, controlling or coercive behaviour and intimate image abuse.
The Act also created two new communication offences, a false communications offence and a threatening communications offence.
In addition, the action plan for the new seven year Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which I jointly published with the Health Minister last September, contains an action, which is led by the Department of Health, to continue to implement actions arising from the Online Safety Strategy to empower children and young people, parents/carers and those working with children and young people to recognise, prevent and respond to abusive behaviours online.
I understand that one initiative under this Online Safety Strategy has led to the development of an Online Safety Hub, which offers clear guidance on healthy relationships and helps users, including young people, identify signs of abuse, including coercive control.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202224%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444553"}},{"id":"442787","reference":"AQW 28504/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-10","answerBy":"2025-06-25","answered":"2025-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what engagement her Department has had with children’s rights stakeholders, including the NSPCC and the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, regarding the defence of reasonable chastisement.","answerText":"Both I and my Department have engaged and continue to engage with the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, the Children’s Law Centre and the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission regarding equal protection for children. These organisations have made representations that the current law is contrary to the European Convention on Human Rights and Equal Protection rights for children. They continue to make the call for the defence of reasonable chastisement to be abolished, which I fully support.\n\nI am happy to engage with other children’s rights stakeholders on this and other issues; however, to date, and despite best efforts, it has not been possible to secure Executive support for legislative change.","answerHtml":"Both I and my Department have engaged and continue to engage with the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, the Children’s Law Centre and the Northern Ireland Human Rights Commission regarding equal protection for children. These organisations have made representations that the current law is contrary to the European Convention on Human Rights and Equal Protection rights for children. They continue to make the call for the defence of reasonable chastisement to be abolished, which I fully support.
I am happy to engage with other children’s rights stakeholders on this and other issues; however, to date, and despite best efforts, it has not been possible to secure Executive support for legislative change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028504%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442787"}},{"id":"442786","reference":"AQW 28503/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-10","answerBy":"2025-06-25","answered":"2025-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what legal protections are currently in place for children who are physically punished under the defence of reasonable chastisement.","answerText":"Children who are physically punished under the defence of reasonable chastisement have legal protections in that an adult’s defence in such a case can only be successful if the harm to the child is minor: anything which causes more than transitory or minor discomfort is unlawful and can result in prosecution. This is an independent decision for the court to make depending on the evidence provided by the prosecution.\n\nThe current position is, in my view, unacceptable in that children do not have the same legal protections as adults, where the defence of reasonable chastisement is obviously not available. I am in agreement with the views of experts such as the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, who have warned of the adverse impacts on children who are, under the law as it stands, “reasonably chastised” and of the risk of the availability of that defence making safeguarding more subjective and complex for professionals. That is why I support equal protection and will continue to strongly encourage all of my Executive colleagues to agree to a change in the law.","answerHtml":"Children who are physically punished under the defence of reasonable chastisement have legal protections in that an adult’s defence in such a case can only be successful if the harm to the child is minor: anything which causes more than transitory or minor discomfort is unlawful and can result in prosecution. This is an independent decision for the court to make depending on the evidence provided by the prosecution.
The current position is, in my view, unacceptable in that children do not have the same legal protections as adults, where the defence of reasonable chastisement is obviously not available. I am in agreement with the views of experts such as the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, who have warned of the adverse impacts on children who are, under the law as it stands, “reasonably chastised” and of the risk of the availability of that defence making safeguarding more subjective and complex for professionals. That is why I support equal protection and will continue to strongly encourage all of my Executive colleagues to agree to a change in the law.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028503%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442786"}},{"id":"442785","reference":"AQW 28502/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-10","answerBy":"2025-06-25","answered":"2025-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what guidance is currently issued to the (i) PSNI; (ii) Public Prosecution Service; and (iii) safeguarding professionals, on the application and limits of the reasonable chastisement defence.","answerText":"As Minister of Justice, my role is independent of the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) and the Police Service of NI (PSNI). Further, the Minister of Health has responsibility for safeguarding professionals.\n\nNo guidance is issued by my Department in this regard; however, it is important to note that Article 2 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions (NI) Order 2006 has the effect of limiting the grounds on which the defence of reasonable chastisement can be used.\n\nThis means if a parent or adult smacks a child and is prosecuted, they can defend themselves in terms of “reasonable chastisement” but only provided the harm is minor. Anything which causes more than transitory or minor discomfort is unlawful and can result in prosecution. This will be an independent decision for the court to make depending on the evidence provided by the prosecution.","answerHtml":"As Minister of Justice, my role is independent of the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) and the Police Service of NI (PSNI). Further, the Minister of Health has responsibility for safeguarding professionals.
No guidance is issued by my Department in this regard; however, it is important to note that Article 2 of the Law Reform (Miscellaneous Provisions (NI) Order 2006 has the effect of limiting the grounds on which the defence of reasonable chastisement can be used.
This means if a parent or adult smacks a child and is prosecuted, they can defend themselves in terms of “reasonable chastisement” but only provided the harm is minor. Anything which causes more than transitory or minor discomfort is unlawful and can result in prosecution. This will be an independent decision for the court to make depending on the evidence provided by the prosecution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028502%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442785"}},{"id":"442784","reference":"AQW 28501/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-10","answerBy":"2025-06-25","answered":"2025-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what assessment her Department has made of the impact of physical punishment on children’s (i) mental health; (ii) development; and (iii) long-term outcomes.","answerText":"I met with the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health following publication of their report in 2024 on the impact of physical punishment on children and young people. I continue to endorse the findings of the report, which found that the use of physical punishment has a negative impact on children’s physical and mental health, as well as their social, emotional and behavioural outcomes. The report also outlined evidence to suggest that children who are physically punished are more likely to believe that violence is accepted and encouraged by society, which may lead to them behaving in a more violent manner in adolescence and adulthood.\n\nDespite my efforts to do so, I have not been able to secure Executive agreement to deliver a change in the law in the current Justice Bill, but I will continue to work with my ministerial colleagues to seek their support to repeal the defence of reasonable chastisement here and move towards a position of equal protection for children in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I met with the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health following publication of their report in 2024 on the impact of physical punishment on children and young people. I continue to endorse the findings of the report, which found that the use of physical punishment has a negative impact on children’s physical and mental health, as well as their social, emotional and behavioural outcomes. The report also outlined evidence to suggest that children who are physically punished are more likely to believe that violence is accepted and encouraged by society, which may lead to them behaving in a more violent manner in adolescence and adulthood.
Despite my efforts to do so, I have not been able to secure Executive agreement to deliver a change in the law in the current Justice Bill, but I will continue to work with my ministerial colleagues to seek their support to repeal the defence of reasonable chastisement here and move towards a position of equal protection for children in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028501%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442784","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442784"}},{"id":"442783","reference":"AQW 28500/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-10","answerBy":"2025-06-25","answered":"2025-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she intends to introduce provisions in the Justice Bill to remove the defence of reasonable chastisement in law.","answerText":"I am fully supportive of removing the defence of reasonable chastisement from the law here, however any such amendment requires Executive agreement.\n\nDespite my best efforts to do so, I have not been able to secure Executive agreement to deliver a change in the law in the current Justice Bill, but I will continue to work with my ministerial colleagues to seek their support to repeal the defence of reasonable chastisement here and move towards a position of equal protection for children in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I am fully supportive of removing the defence of reasonable chastisement from the law here, however any such amendment requires Executive agreement.
Despite my best efforts to do so, I have not been able to secure Executive agreement to deliver a change in the law in the current Justice Bill, but I will continue to work with my ministerial colleagues to seek their support to repeal the defence of reasonable chastisement here and move towards a position of equal protection for children in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028500%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442783"}},{"id":"442546","reference":"AQW 28411/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-09","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail whether his Department has undertaken an equality or poverty impact assessment on the current eligibility thresholds for free school meals, in light of recent statistics showing a rise in both relative and absolute child poverty.","answerText":"As part of my Department’s review of the free school meals and uniform grant eligibility criteria, an equality screening, rural needs impact assessment and a child’s rights impact assessment were completed. These documents are available on my Department’s website at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-free-school-meals-and-uniform-grant-eligibility-criteria.","answerHtml":"As part of my Department’s review of the free school meals and uniform grant eligibility criteria, an equality screening, rural needs impact assessment and a child’s rights impact assessment were completed. These documents are available on my Department’s website at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/consultations/review-free-school-meals-and-uniform-grant-eligibility-criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028411%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442546"}},{"id":"442545","reference":"AQW 28410/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-09","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether he intends to match the expanded eligibility criteria for Winter Fuel Payments announced by the Chancellor for pensioners in England and Wales.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the Statement I made in the Assembly on 10 June 2025, Update on Winter Fuel Payments.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the Statement I made in the Assembly on 10 June 2025, Update on Winter Fuel Payments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028410%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442545"}},{"id":"442544","reference":"AQW 28409/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-09","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail whether his Department has received Barnett consequentials following the UK Government’s expansion of Winter Fuel Payments in England and Wales.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the Statement I made in the Assembly on 10 June 2025, Update on Winter Fuel Payments.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the Statement I made in the Assembly on 10 June 2025, Update on Winter Fuel Payments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028409%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442544"}},{"id":"442543","reference":"AQW 28408/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-09","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline what estimate his Department has made of the potential cost of extending Winter Fuel Payments to all pensioners with an income under £35,000.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the Statement I made in the Assembly on 10 June 2025, Update on Winter Fuel Payments.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the Statement I made in the Assembly on 10 June 2025, Update on Winter Fuel Payments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028408%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442543"}},{"id":"442542","reference":"AQW 28407/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-09","answerBy":"2025-06-24","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration his Department has given to extending free school meal eligibility to include all children in households in receipt of Universal Credit, in line with England.","answerText":"The announcement by the Department for Education in England that it will be expanding access to free school meals to all children in families in receipt of Universal Credit from September 2026 is a major policy change in England as at present families in receipt of Universal Credit would only be eligible for free school meals if they had a net household income of less than £7,400 per year. This is significantly lower than the £15,000 income threshold that currently applies in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department recently concluded a twelve-week public consultation exercise on the eligibility criteria for free school meals and uniform grants. The consultation modelled options including widening access to more low-income families by raising the current income threshold but did not examine the option to remove the income threshold entirely.\n\nI intend to make my decision on the way forward in the near future. This decision will be informed by the consultation feedback, the potential impact on children and their families, schools and school caterers as well as the Department’s current significant budgetary pressures.","answerHtml":"The announcement by the Department for Education in England that it will be expanding access to free school meals to all children in families in receipt of Universal Credit from September 2026 is a major policy change in England as at present families in receipt of Universal Credit would only be eligible for free school meals if they had a net household income of less than £7,400 per year. This is significantly lower than the £15,000 income threshold that currently applies in Northern Ireland.
My Department recently concluded a twelve-week public consultation exercise on the eligibility criteria for free school meals and uniform grants. The consultation modelled options including widening access to more low-income families by raising the current income threshold but did not examine the option to remove the income threshold entirely.
I intend to make my decision on the way forward in the near future. This decision will be informed by the consultation feedback, the potential impact on children and their families, schools and school caterers as well as the Department’s current significant budgetary pressures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028407%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442542"}},{"id":"443581","reference":"AQO 2163/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-05","answerBy":"2025-06-16","answered":"2025-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has considered the introduction of increased rates for properties used as holiday lets.","answerText":"The level of rates paid by “holiday lets” will vary depending on the frequency of letting.\n\nThose that are commercially let are valued as non-domestic properties and are charged business rates.\n\nNon-commercial holiday lets are valued differently and charged domestic rates. These may include second homes or holiday homes which are let out on a more occasional basis.\n\nApplying a levy to domestic properties in that cohort was previously considered at Executive level as part of a previous formal review of domestic rating.\n\nSuch a levy was ruled out on the basis that it would be easy to evade, impossible to vet at reasonable cost and would be unlikely to make any difference to the decisions taken by those seeking second homes.\n\nI am aware of similar policy interventions being attempted in Britain in recent years which my officials have been monitoring closely.\n\nThose policy interventions elsewhere have not been without significant problems but nonetheless will be assessed by my Department as part of the systemic assessment of rate supports within the Strategic Review of Rating.","answerHtml":"The level of rates paid by “holiday lets” will vary depending on the frequency of letting.
Those that are commercially let are valued as non-domestic properties and are charged business rates.
Non-commercial holiday lets are valued differently and charged domestic rates. These may include second homes or holiday homes which are let out on a more occasional basis.
Applying a levy to domestic properties in that cohort was previously considered at Executive level as part of a previous formal review of domestic rating.
Such a levy was ruled out on the basis that it would be easy to evade, impossible to vet at reasonable cost and would be unlikely to make any difference to the decisions taken by those seeking second homes.
I am aware of similar policy interventions being attempted in Britain in recent years which my officials have been monitoring closely.
Those policy interventions elsewhere have not been without significant problems but nonetheless will be assessed by my Department as part of the systemic assessment of rate supports within the Strategic Review of Rating.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202163%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=443581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=443581"}},{"id":"441809","reference":"AQW 28063/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-03","answerBy":"2025-06-18","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how his Department ensures that environmental responsibilities are applied fairly across all sectors, including public infrastructure and agriculture.","answerText":"Ensuring that environmental responsibilities are applied fairly across all sectors involves policy, regulation and monitoring.\n\nEnvironmental policy and regulation set clear, enforceable standards and baseline environmental responsibilities that apply across all sectors, ensuring a consistent and transparent approach.\n\nEnvironmental regulation and monitoring is carried out across all impacting sectors in a fair, firm and reasonable manner in accordance with the relevant legislation, any regulatory position statements in force and the relevant Northern Ireland or UK guidance if available.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that environmental responsibilities are applied fairly across all sectors involves policy, regulation and monitoring.
Environmental policy and regulation set clear, enforceable standards and baseline environmental responsibilities that apply across all sectors, ensuring a consistent and transparent approach.
Environmental regulation and monitoring is carried out across all impacting sectors in a fair, firm and reasonable manner in accordance with the relevant legislation, any regulatory position statements in force and the relevant Northern Ireland or UK guidance if available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028063%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441809"}},{"id":"441808","reference":"AQW 28062/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-03","answerBy":"2025-06-18","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline (i) what monitoring requirements the Northern Ireland Environment Agency places on consented sewage discharges; and (ii) whether there are plans to strengthen these.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates wastewater discharges by assessing the quality of the wastewater discharged against set conditions and standards within the Water (NI) Order Discharge Consent. Compliance and monitoring requirements are dependent on the nature of the consented wastewater treatment operation, but in general they include; targeted site inspections, operator self-monitoring and reporting. Sites are also routinely sampled as part of NIEA’s sampling rota in respect of compliance monitoring. Small discharges are not routinely monitored but remain subject to compliance with consent conditions. NIEA uses all available data to assess compliance against the conditions of the Discharge Consent. In situations where non-compliances are identified, enforcement action may be taken in line with DAERA’s enforcement policy.\n\nNIEA, through its Wastewater Regulatory Reform programme, will continue to review and update its consenting methods to ensure appropriate measures are in place, through Water Order discharge consents, to protect the environment.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates wastewater discharges by assessing the quality of the wastewater discharged against set conditions and standards within the Water (NI) Order Discharge Consent. Compliance and monitoring requirements are dependent on the nature of the consented wastewater treatment operation, but in general they include; targeted site inspections, operator self-monitoring and reporting. Sites are also routinely sampled as part of NIEA’s sampling rota in respect of compliance monitoring. Small discharges are not routinely monitored but remain subject to compliance with consent conditions. NIEA uses all available data to assess compliance against the conditions of the Discharge Consent. In situations where non-compliances are identified, enforcement action may be taken in line with DAERA’s enforcement policy.
NIEA, through its Wastewater Regulatory Reform programme, will continue to review and update its consenting methods to ensure appropriate measures are in place, through Water Order discharge consents, to protect the environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441808"}},{"id":"441807","reference":"AQW 28061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-03","answerBy":"2025-06-18","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) how many sewage discharge consents are currently active; and (ii) whether his Department assesses their cumulative impact on water quality.","answerText":"Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates discharges to the water environment under the Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999. In total, the Department has issued 147,859 discharge consents for sewage related discharges. NIEA is unable to confirm if all of these consents are active.\n\nThe consideration of Consent to discharge applications is carried out on a risk-based approach.\n\nDischarges from a single domestic property and low volume (less than 3m3/day) discharges are treated as low risk. NIEA does not currently assess cumulative impacts of these low volume discharges.\n\nFor discharges more than 3m3/ day, discharge consent standards are calculated based on existing water quality and the classification of the water body under the Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017. The technical assessment therefore accounts for the cumulative impact of all inputs into that waterbody.\n\nFor those discharges proposed which may have an impact on a designated site, applications are subject to a Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRAs) under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995. These HRAs include an assessment of the cumulative, and in combination impact of other environmental authorisations.\n\nNIEA is currently reviewing all of the consenting methods applied to ensure the most up to date data and information is used to inform the consideration of applications and to ensure sufficient controls are in place to drive improvement in water quality.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates discharges to the water environment under the Water (Northern Ireland) Order 1999. In total, the Department has issued 147,859 discharge consents for sewage related discharges. NIEA is unable to confirm if all of these consents are active.
The consideration of Consent to discharge applications is carried out on a risk-based approach.
Discharges from a single domestic property and low volume (less than 3m3/day) discharges are treated as low risk. NIEA does not currently assess cumulative impacts of these low volume discharges.
For discharges more than 3m3/ day, discharge consent standards are calculated based on existing water quality and the classification of the water body under the Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017. The technical assessment therefore accounts for the cumulative impact of all inputs into that waterbody.
For those discharges proposed which may have an impact on a designated site, applications are subject to a Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRAs) under the Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1995. These HRAs include an assessment of the cumulative, and in combination impact of other environmental authorisations.
NIEA is currently reviewing all of the consenting methods applied to ensure the most up to date data and information is used to inform the consideration of applications and to ensure sufficient controls are in place to drive improvement in water quality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028061%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441807"}},{"id":"441806","reference":"AQW 28060/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-03","answerBy":"2025-06-18","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) how NI Water’s sewage discharge data is currently collected; and (ii) whether any independent verification of that data takes place.","answerText":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:\n\nSewage discharges are generally considered under 2 categories: (a) discharges that occur on a continuous basis from a wastewater treatment works (WwTW), when wastewater has been treated to a standard that is considered safe to return to the environment, and (b) discharges that occur on an intermittent basis from storm overflows when dilute wastewater is discharged direct to the environment.\n\n(a) With regard to treated effluent discharges from WwTWs, that are required to meet the standards set out in discharge consents issued by the NIEA, NI Water employs an Operator Self-Monitoring scheme as agreed with NIEA and in line with other water companies in Britain. This includes NI Water collecting data on the daily volume of treated discharges at some larger WwTWs via externally verified flow measurement systems.\n\n(b) To monitor and record intermittent spills from storm overflows, Event Duration Monitors are being installed across NI Water’s wastewater network over a multi-year investment programme. These measure the start and stop times when a spill is occurring allowing the number and duration of spills to be determined for a calendar year.\n\nNone of the data collected is independently verified.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:
Sewage discharges are generally considered under 2 categories: (a) discharges that occur on a continuous basis from a wastewater treatment works (WwTW), when wastewater has been treated to a standard that is considered safe to return to the environment, and (b) discharges that occur on an intermittent basis from storm overflows when dilute wastewater is discharged direct to the environment.
(a) With regard to treated effluent discharges from WwTWs, that are required to meet the standards set out in discharge consents issued by the NIEA, NI Water employs an Operator Self-Monitoring scheme as agreed with NIEA and in line with other water companies in Britain. This includes NI Water collecting data on the daily volume of treated discharges at some larger WwTWs via externally verified flow measurement systems.
(b) To monitor and record intermittent spills from storm overflows, Event Duration Monitors are being installed across NI Water’s wastewater network over a multi-year investment programme. These measure the start and stop times when a spill is occurring allowing the number and duration of spills to be determined for a calendar year.
None of the data collected is independently verified.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441806"}},{"id":"441805","reference":"AQW 28059/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-06-03","answerBy":"2025-06-18","answered":"2025-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether NI Water intends to introduce continuous or real-time monitoring at sewage discharge points, as is now required of water companies in other parts of the UK.","answerText":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:\n\nThe Environment Act 2021 imposes a duty on water companies in Great Britain to publish wastewater overflow data from storm overflows within an hour of the discharge beginning however, this legislative requirement does not apply here.\n\nNI Water continues to work with the Utility Regulator and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency regarding reporting requirements for storm overflows.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:
The Environment Act 2021 imposes a duty on water companies in Great Britain to publish wastewater overflow data from storm overflows within an hour of the discharge beginning however, this legislative requirement does not apply here.
NI Water continues to work with the Utility Regulator and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency regarding reporting requirements for storm overflows.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028059%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441805"}},{"id":"441458","reference":"AQW 27934/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-30","answerBy":"2025-06-16","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what steps have been taken to ensure the scientific basis for the proposed Nutrients Action Programme for 2026-2029 is robust and reflects on-farm conditions.","answerText":"The development of the proposed Nutrients Action Programme 2026-2029 has been guided by science and evidence. The draft proposals are underpinned by a broad range of analysis and research studies. There are processes in place to ensure decisions on any of the draft proposals are informed by robust scientific evidence.","answerHtml":"The development of the proposed Nutrients Action Programme 2026-2029 has been guided by science and evidence. The draft proposals are underpinned by a broad range of analysis and research studies. There are processes in place to ensure decisions on any of the draft proposals are informed by robust scientific evidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027934%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441458"}},{"id":"441457","reference":"AQW 27933/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-30","answerBy":"2025-06-16","answered":"2025-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how the proposed Nutrients Action Programme for 2026-2029 aligns with voluntary measures under the Farming with Nature Transition Scheme.","answerText":"The development of the draft proposals has been guided by science and evidence and the information in the Implementation Report for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2020 – 2023. This was produced in accordance with regulation 34 of the NAP (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2019 and it was published in June 2024.\n\nThe final Proposals will take account of the wider policy landscape including the Farming with nature scheme.","answerHtml":"The development of the draft proposals has been guided by science and evidence and the information in the Implementation Report for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2020 – 2023. This was produced in accordance with regulation 34 of the NAP (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2019 and it was published in June 2024.
The final Proposals will take account of the wider policy landscape including the Farming with nature scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027933%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441457"}},{"id":"441456","reference":"AQW 27932/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-30","answerBy":"2025-06-16","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what economic assessment has been made of the impact on small and medium farms from the proposed Nutrients Action Programme for 2026 - 2029.","answerText":"In line with statutory process, an initial Regulatory Impact Assessment has been published with the Nutrients Action Programme consultation and a final Regulatory Impact Assessment will be completed, informed by the consultation.\n\nThe final Regulatory Impact Assessment will be complemented by a full economic impact assessment to ensure any decisions on the draft proposals are informed by a full understanding of the potential impact.","answerHtml":"In line with statutory process, an initial Regulatory Impact Assessment has been published with the Nutrients Action Programme consultation and a final Regulatory Impact Assessment will be completed, informed by the consultation.
The final Regulatory Impact Assessment will be complemented by a full economic impact assessment to ensure any decisions on the draft proposals are informed by a full understanding of the potential impact.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027932%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441456"}},{"id":"441455","reference":"AQW 27931/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-30","answerBy":"2025-06-16","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what steps he is taking to ensure the final Nutrients Action Programme for 2026 - 2029 reflects the views of farmers and the realities of food production.","answerText":"The development of the proposed Nutrients Action Programme 2026-2029 has been guided by science and evidence. The draft proposals are underpinned by a broad range of analysis and research studies. There are processes in place to ensure decisions on any of the draft proposals are informed by robust scientific evidence.","answerHtml":"The development of the proposed Nutrients Action Programme 2026-2029 has been guided by science and evidence. The draft proposals are underpinned by a broad range of analysis and research studies. There are processes in place to ensure decisions on any of the draft proposals are informed by robust scientific evidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027931%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441455","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441455"}},{"id":"441454","reference":"AQW 27930/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-30","answerBy":"2025-06-16","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how his Department engaged with agri-food stakeholders in developing the proposed Nutrients Action Programme for 2026 - 2029.","answerText":"Stakeholders were updated on the findings in the Implementation Report for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2020 – 2023 and the current science and research, which supports the NAP proposals, in June and November 2024.\n\nPresentations from these meetings were made available to representatives on the Stakeholder Group and are published on the DAERA website.\n\nIn parallel with the consultation, my officials have delivered a series of information events including two public meetings, two online public information events and three themed meetings with key stakeholder representatives.\n\nMy officials will continue to meet and engage with stakeholders and I will also continue to meet with key stakeholder representatives.","answerHtml":"Stakeholders were updated on the findings in the Implementation Report for the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2020 – 2023 and the current science and research, which supports the NAP proposals, in June and November 2024.
Presentations from these meetings were made available to representatives on the Stakeholder Group and are published on the DAERA website.
In parallel with the consultation, my officials have delivered a series of information events including two public meetings, two online public information events and three themed meetings with key stakeholder representatives.
My officials will continue to meet and engage with stakeholders and I will also continue to meet with key stakeholder representatives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027930%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441454","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441454"}},{"id":"441325","reference":"AQW 27875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-13","answered":"2025-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she will consider introducing legislation, similar to the Republic of Ireland’s Planning and Development Act 2024, which would require booking platforms to verify that listed properties are properly registered as short-term tourist accommodation.","answerText":"Tourism NI’s powers to regulate the visitor accommodation sector are set out in the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”). These include enforcement powers for accommodation establishments which have not been certified.\n\nTourism NI engages regularly with representatives of the main online booking platforms, including Airbnb and Booking.com, to encourage them to align the properties listed on their sites with properties certified by Tourism NI in the relevant statutory categories of visitor accommodation. As a result of this engagement, local law disclosure information for the North has been added by Airbnb whilst booking.com highlight the certification requirement to local operators on their platform.\n\nTourism NI also routinely undertakes enforcement action against uncertified operators in accordance with the 1992 Order. There are 324 certified operators who were previously trading without a certificate as a result of Tourism NI engagement.\n\nMy Department and Tourism NI are reviewing the visitor accommodation certification scheme operated by Tourism NI. This will include consideration of whether any future legislative change is required, including with regard to enforcement powers.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI’s powers to regulate the visitor accommodation sector are set out in the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”). These include enforcement powers for accommodation establishments which have not been certified.
Tourism NI engages regularly with representatives of the main online booking platforms, including Airbnb and Booking.com, to encourage them to align the properties listed on their sites with properties certified by Tourism NI in the relevant statutory categories of visitor accommodation. As a result of this engagement, local law disclosure information for the North has been added by Airbnb whilst booking.com highlight the certification requirement to local operators on their platform.
Tourism NI also routinely undertakes enforcement action against uncertified operators in accordance with the 1992 Order. There are 324 certified operators who were previously trading without a certificate as a result of Tourism NI engagement.
My Department and Tourism NI are reviewing the visitor accommodation certification scheme operated by Tourism NI. This will include consideration of whether any future legislative change is required, including with regard to enforcement powers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441325","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441325"}},{"id":"441324","reference":"AQW 27874/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-13","answered":"2025-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what plans she has to strengthen Tourism NI’s enforcement powers to ensure booking platforms only list certified holiday accommodation.","answerText":"Tourism NI’s powers to regulate the visitor accommodation sector are set out in the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”). These include enforcement powers for accommodation establishments which have not been certified.\n\nTourism NI engages regularly with representatives of the main online booking platforms, including Airbnb and Booking.com, to encourage them to align the properties listed on their sites with properties certified by Tourism NI in the relevant statutory categories of visitor accommodation. As a result of this engagement, local law disclosure information for the North has been added by Airbnb whilst booking.com highlight the certification requirement to local operators on their platform.\n\nTourism NI also routinely undertakes enforcement action against uncertified operators in accordance with the 1992 Order. There are 324 certified operators who were previously trading without a certificate as a result of Tourism NI engagement.\n\nMy Department and Tourism NI are reviewing the visitor accommodation certification scheme operated by Tourism NI. This will include consideration of whether any future legislative change is required, including with regard to enforcement powers.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI’s powers to regulate the visitor accommodation sector are set out in the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992 (“the 1992 Order”). These include enforcement powers for accommodation establishments which have not been certified.
Tourism NI engages regularly with representatives of the main online booking platforms, including Airbnb and Booking.com, to encourage them to align the properties listed on their sites with properties certified by Tourism NI in the relevant statutory categories of visitor accommodation. As a result of this engagement, local law disclosure information for the North has been added by Airbnb whilst booking.com highlight the certification requirement to local operators on their platform.
Tourism NI also routinely undertakes enforcement action against uncertified operators in accordance with the 1992 Order. There are 324 certified operators who were previously trading without a certificate as a result of Tourism NI engagement.
My Department and Tourism NI are reviewing the visitor accommodation certification scheme operated by Tourism NI. This will include consideration of whether any future legislative change is required, including with regard to enforcement powers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027874%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441324","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441324"}},{"id":"441323","reference":"AQW 27873/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-13","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she has considered a cross-departmental review with the Department for the Economy to assess the regulatory gaps in managing short-term holiday accommodation.","answerText":"A cross departmental group of DfC, DfI & DfE has very recently been established to consider this issue.","answerHtml":"A cross departmental group of DfC, DfI & DfE has very recently been established to consider this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027873%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441323","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441323"}},{"id":"441322","reference":"AQW 27872/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-13","answered":"2025-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will review the Planning (Use Classes) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 to introduce a distinct category for short-term holiday accommodation, separate from residential dwellings.","answerText":"A cross departmental group of DfC, DfI & DfE has very recently been established to consider this issue. However, I will keep under consideration are view the Planning (Uses Classes) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015.","answerHtml":"A cross departmental group of DfC, DfI & DfE has very recently been established to consider this issue. However, I will keep under consideration are view the Planning (Uses Classes) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027872%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441322","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441322"}},{"id":"441321","reference":"AQW 27871/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-13","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will consider issuing strategic planning guidance to councils on how to manage the growing number of short-term holiday lets in high-pressure housing areas.","answerText":"The Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) support the creation of balanced communities and, in relation to all types of housing, the policy approach is to facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. Council local development plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for delivering this by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth in their areas, including in high pressure housing areas, to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development.\n\nThis process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, including in areas that may be affected by increasing numbers of short-term holiday lets. Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. Councils can prepare local policies and guidance to address certain planning matters in their areas, such as short-term holiday lets, if considered necessary. Councils are also responsible for operating effective development management in respect of planning applications for all types of housing development and in doing so, the provisions of regional strategic planning policy must be taken into account. I have, therefore, no plans to revise the Department’s regional strategic planning policy approach on housing or provide specific guidance on short-term holiday lets at this time.\n\nNotwithstanding this, I can advise that discussions, comprising a cross departmental group of officials (DfC, DfI & DfE) have recently commenced to consider the matter of short-term lets.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) support the creation of balanced communities and, in relation to all types of housing, the policy approach is to facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. Council local development plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for delivering this by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth in their areas, including in high pressure housing areas, to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development.
This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, including in areas that may be affected by increasing numbers of short-term holiday lets. Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. Councils can prepare local policies and guidance to address certain planning matters in their areas, such as short-term holiday lets, if considered necessary. Councils are also responsible for operating effective development management in respect of planning applications for all types of housing development and in doing so, the provisions of regional strategic planning policy must be taken into account. I have, therefore, no plans to revise the Department’s regional strategic planning policy approach on housing or provide specific guidance on short-term holiday lets at this time.
Notwithstanding this, I can advise that discussions, comprising a cross departmental group of officials (DfC, DfI & DfE) have recently commenced to consider the matter of short-term lets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027871%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=441321","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=441321"}},{"id":"442715","reference":"AQO 2135/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-10","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline how Project Stratum is addressing any remaining broadband not-spots in rural communities.","answerText":"The build phase for Project Stratum is scheduled to finish at the end of this month. Project Statum has made gigabit services available to 80,000 premises, and a further 1,100 will be connected by the end of June. This means that 93% of premises here can access a gigabit-capable service compared to 83% in the rest of Britain.\n\nProject Gigabit is the next phase of broadband infrastructure investment and will further improve access a gigabit-capable services. This project is in procurement. I unable to confirm which premises will be connected until the procurement phase is complete.\n\nI am conscious that not all premises are expected to be included in Project Gigabit. This is for a variety of reasons, including high costs for individual premises, and limitations in identifying which premises require public subsidy and which will be served commercially.\n\nMy Department is taking steps to ensure we maximise the reach of Project Gigabit. My officials are working to identify any premises that need to be added to the project. There is a process to include such premises in Project Gigabit where it is represents value for money, and subject to funding being made available.\n\nI am also aware that Building Digital UK is developing schemes for high cost, or very hard to reach, premises. However, these schemes are in early stages. I will continue to make the case for premises in the north to have access to these schemes when they become available.","answerHtml":"The build phase for Project Stratum is scheduled to finish at the end of this month. Project Statum has made gigabit services available to 80,000 premises, and a further 1,100 will be connected by the end of June. This means that 93% of premises here can access a gigabit-capable service compared to 83% in the rest of Britain.
Project Gigabit is the next phase of broadband infrastructure investment and will further improve access a gigabit-capable services. This project is in procurement. I unable to confirm which premises will be connected until the procurement phase is complete.
I am conscious that not all premises are expected to be included in Project Gigabit. This is for a variety of reasons, including high costs for individual premises, and limitations in identifying which premises require public subsidy and which will be served commercially.
My Department is taking steps to ensure we maximise the reach of Project Gigabit. My officials are working to identify any premises that need to be added to the project. There is a process to include such premises in Project Gigabit where it is represents value for money, and subject to funding being made available.
I am also aware that Building Digital UK is developing schemes for high cost, or very hard to reach, premises. However, these schemes are in early stages. I will continue to make the case for premises in the north to have access to these schemes when they become available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202135%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442715"}},{"id":"442612","reference":"AQO 2118/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-29","answerBy":"2025-06-09","answered":"2025-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the support available through his Department to help grassroots sports clubs secure access to appropriate playing grounds.","answerText":"Responsibility for provision of playing fields and other recreation facilities lies with local councils under Article 10 of the Recreation and Youth Service Order (Northern Ireland) 1986.\n\nSport NI has drafted a Sports Facility Audit and is working with councils and governing bodies to identify gaps.\n\nProposals are also currently being developed as part of The Northern Ireland Football Fund for my consideration.\n\nI also would draw the Member’s attention to the Your School Your Club initiative, which seeks to open up school sports facilities for community use, including grassroots sports clubs. I will shortly be making a formal announcement about investment for Your School Your Club for the 2025/2026 financial year.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for provision of playing fields and other recreation facilities lies with local councils under Article 10 of the Recreation and Youth Service Order (Northern Ireland) 1986.
Sport NI has drafted a Sports Facility Audit and is working with councils and governing bodies to identify gaps.
Proposals are also currently being developed as part of The Northern Ireland Football Fund for my consideration.
I also would draw the Member’s attention to the Your School Your Club initiative, which seeks to open up school sports facilities for community use, including grassroots sports clubs. I will shortly be making a formal announcement about investment for Your School Your Club for the 2025/2026 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202118%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=442612","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=442612"}},{"id":"440705","reference":"AQW 27666/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-23","answerBy":"2025-06-10","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what consideration he has given to allowing reimbursement for patients who access treatment in private hospitals or clinics within Northern Ireland under the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme.","answerText":"The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is based on the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive which allowed patients to get reimbursed for healthcare treatment outside Northern Ireland and GB. As I outlined in my previous statement there is other work ongoing with Independent Sector Providers in Northern Ireland as part of a package of initiatives to tackle hospital care backlogs.","answerHtml":"The Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme is based on the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive which allowed patients to get reimbursed for healthcare treatment outside Northern Ireland and GB. As I outlined in my previous statement there is other work ongoing with Independent Sector Providers in Northern Ireland as part of a package of initiatives to tackle hospital care backlogs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027666%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440705"}},{"id":"440704","reference":"AQW 27665/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-23","answerBy":"2025-06-10","answered":"2025-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the criteria that will be used to assess eligibility for treatment under the Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme.","answerText":"The Scheme has now launched 2 June 2025 and applies the following strict eligibility criteria:\n\nPatients who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland; And\n\nPatients who are on a treatment or surgical waiting list within HSC services in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Scheme will be initiated on a phased approach. The first phase will allow reimbursements for treatment in the Republic of Ireland. The second phase will be introduced at a later date subject to remaining available funding and will see the geographical scope of the Scheme expanded to all countries in the European Union\n\nPatients require prior approval from my Department before accessing the Scheme. As the Scheme is only available to pre-authorised treatments, my Department cannot accept retrospective applications.\n\nDetails of the application process and accessing funding are now available on the Strategic Planning and Performance Group of the Department of Health’s website.","answerHtml":"The Scheme has now launched 2 June 2025 and applies the following strict eligibility criteria:
Patients who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland; And
Patients who are on a treatment or surgical waiting list within HSC services in Northern Ireland.
The Scheme will be initiated on a phased approach. The first phase will allow reimbursements for treatment in the Republic of Ireland. The second phase will be introduced at a later date subject to remaining available funding and will see the geographical scope of the Scheme expanded to all countries in the European Union
Patients require prior approval from my Department before accessing the Scheme. As the Scheme is only available to pre-authorised treatments, my Department cannot accept retrospective applications.
Details of the application process and accessing funding are now available on the Strategic Planning and Performance Group of the Department of Health’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027665%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440704"}},{"id":"440703","reference":"AQW 27664/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-23","answerBy":"2025-06-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the new Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme will include provision for patients with comorbidities or higher dependency needs.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027664%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440703","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440703"}},{"id":"440702","reference":"AQW 27663/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-23","answerBy":"2025-06-10","answered":"2025-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he expects to publish full details of the new Waiting List Reimbursement Scheme.","answerText":"The Scheme has now launched 2 June 2025, and gives patients, who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland and have been on an HSC hospital treatment waiting list for two years, the option to seek and pay for treatment in the private sector and have the cost reimbursed, up to the cost of the treatment to Health and Social Care (HSC) in Northern Ireland.\n\nDetails of the application process and accessing funding are now available on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"The Scheme has now launched 2 June 2025, and gives patients, who are ordinarily resident in Northern Ireland and have been on an HSC hospital treatment waiting list for two years, the option to seek and pay for treatment in the private sector and have the cost reimbursed, up to the cost of the treatment to Health and Social Care (HSC) in Northern Ireland.
Details of the application process and accessing funding are now available on the Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027663%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440702","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440702"}},{"id":"440225","reference":"AQW 27425/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-20","answerBy":"2025-06-05","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has considered implementing new legislative provisions to enable data to be used to (i) inform and deliver service improvements; and (ii) facilitate benchmarking with other UK regions.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027425%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440225"}},{"id":"440224","reference":"AQW 27424/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-20","answerBy":"2025-06-05","answered":"2025-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) what specific initiatives have been considered to improve breast screening uptake; and (ii) whether there are any funding commitments to improve breast screening uptake.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) is responsible for ensuring that all eligible women in NI can make an informed choice about attending for breast screening and that the service is as accessible as possible. The uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.\n\nPHA works in partnership with other stakeholders to raise awareness of the breast cancer screening programme and to promote informed choice. Specific initiatives include the following:\n\nthe PHA chairs a regional group with representation from all Breast Screening Units in the region and Trust health promotion staff. The remit of the group is to identify opportunities to promote informed choice in the Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme (with a particular focus on women from disadvantaged communities; women who have learning/physical/ sensory disabilities; women from minority ethnic groups; older women and other women considered to have special needs); to identify and share good practice; and to advise on the provision of information to the public and health care professionals;\n\nthe PHA breast screening team includes standalone meetings related to promoting informed choice in breast screening in the Quality Assurance (QA) visits to breast screening units;\n\nthe PHA collaborates with Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure that comprehensive, up to date, information on screening is available on their website.\n\nthe PHA currently commissions the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), a local not-for-profit community organisation, to raise awareness of the Breast, Cervical and Bowel Cancer Screening Programmes and to promote informed choice among individuals from communities and populations with historically lower cancer screening uptake rates compared with the general population. The aim of the WRDA’s programme of work is to provide individuals with sufficient information to enable them to make an informed decision about participating in cancer screening programmes. The WRDA recruit, train and support Peer Facilitators to deliver Educational Awareness Sessions to targeted service user groups, including; people from deprived areas, those from ethnic minorities, those from the LGBT+ community, homeless individuals and those with physical disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health issues. WRDA also carry out Bespoke Workshops for those latter groups with additional support needs.\n\nIn relation to working with charities to improve breast screening uptake, I can advise that during February and March 2025, Cancer Research UK (CRUK) ran a multimedia campaign to promote the three NI cancer screening programmes. The PHA worked closely with CRUK to develop this campaign. In addition, the PHA is working with Breast Cancer Now and the Rainbow Project to promote informed choice.\n\nThere are no specific funding commitments to improve breast screening uptake.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) is responsible for ensuring that all eligible women in NI can make an informed choice about attending for breast screening and that the service is as accessible as possible. The uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.
PHA works in partnership with other stakeholders to raise awareness of the breast cancer screening programme and to promote informed choice. Specific initiatives include the following:
the PHA chairs a regional group with representation from all Breast Screening Units in the region and Trust health promotion staff. The remit of the group is to identify opportunities to promote informed choice in the Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme (with a particular focus on women from disadvantaged communities; women who have learning/physical/ sensory disabilities; women from minority ethnic groups; older women and other women considered to have special needs); to identify and share good practice; and to advise on the provision of information to the public and health care professionals;
the PHA breast screening team includes standalone meetings related to promoting informed choice in breast screening in the Quality Assurance (QA) visits to breast screening units;
the PHA collaborates with Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure that comprehensive, up to date, information on screening is available on their website.
the PHA currently commissions the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), a local not-for-profit community organisation, to raise awareness of the Breast, Cervical and Bowel Cancer Screening Programmes and to promote informed choice among individuals from communities and populations with historically lower cancer screening uptake rates compared with the general population. The aim of the WRDA’s programme of work is to provide individuals with sufficient information to enable them to make an informed decision about participating in cancer screening programmes. The WRDA recruit, train and support Peer Facilitators to deliver Educational Awareness Sessions to targeted service user groups, including; people from deprived areas, those from ethnic minorities, those from the LGBT+ community, homeless individuals and those with physical disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health issues. WRDA also carry out Bespoke Workshops for those latter groups with additional support needs.
In relation to working with charities to improve breast screening uptake, I can advise that during February and March 2025, Cancer Research UK (CRUK) ran a multimedia campaign to promote the three NI cancer screening programmes. The PHA worked closely with CRUK to develop this campaign. In addition, the PHA is working with Breast Cancer Now and the Rainbow Project to promote informed choice.
There are no specific funding commitments to improve breast screening uptake.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027424%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440224"}},{"id":"440223","reference":"AQW 27423/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-20","answerBy":"2025-06-05","answered":"2025-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what evaluation methods are in place to measure the effectiveness of breast screening uptake improvement plans or initiatives.","answerText":"Effectiveness of uptake improvement plans and initiatives are measured through a review of the Breast Screening Programme uptake data. Uptake is monitored regularly by the Public Health Agency, on a quarterly and annual level. Where there are specific initiatives or interventions, uptake can be reviewed over specific timescales, or geographical locations.\n\nThe four Breast Screening Units in Northern Ireland each work to develop Promoting Informed Choice action plans with specific actions at local level. Local uptake improvement initiatives can be monitored internally by the Breast Screening Unit using data e.g. at GP practice level.\n\nThe uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.\n\nUptake rates for Northern Ireland since 2020, are as follows:\n\nYear\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nUptake Standard*\t72.2%\t74.8%\t74.3%\t73.9%\n\n*Acceptable level: greater than or equal to 70.0%; Achievable level: greater than or equal to 80.0%.","answerHtml":"Effectiveness of uptake improvement plans and initiatives are measured through a review of the Breast Screening Programme uptake data. Uptake is monitored regularly by the Public Health Agency, on a quarterly and annual level. Where there are specific initiatives or interventions, uptake can be reviewed over specific timescales, or geographical locations.
The four Breast Screening Units in Northern Ireland each work to develop Promoting Informed Choice action plans with specific actions at local level. Local uptake improvement initiatives can be monitored internally by the Breast Screening Unit using data e.g. at GP practice level.
The uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.
Uptake rates for Northern Ireland since 2020, are as follows:
| Year | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Uptake Standard* | 72.2% | 74.8% | 74.3% | 73.9% |
*Acceptable level: greater than or equal to 70.0%; Achievable level: greater than or equal to 80.0%.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027423%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440223"}},{"id":"440222","reference":"AQW 27422/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-20","answerBy":"2025-06-05","answered":"2025-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department is working with (i) the Public Health Agency; (ii) charities; and (iii) community organisations, to improve breast screening uptake.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) is responsible for ensuring that all eligible women in NI can make an informed choice about attending for breast screening and that the service is as accessible as possible. The uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.\n\nPHA works in partnership with other stakeholders to raise awareness of the breast cancer screening programme and to promote informed choice. Specific initiatives include the following:\n\nthe PHA chairs a regional group with representation from all Breast Screening Units in the region and Trust health promotion staff. The remit of the group is to identify opportunities to promote informed choice in the Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme (with a particular focus on women from disadvantaged communities; women who have learning/physical/ sensory disabilities; women from minority ethnic groups; older women and other women considered to have special needs); to identify and share good practice; and to advise on the provision of information to the public and health care professionals;\n\nthe PHA breast screening team includes standalone meetings related to promoting informed choice in breast screening in the Quality Assurance (QA) visits to breast screening units;\n\nthe PHA collaborates with Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure that comprehensive, up to date, information on screening is available on their website.\n\nthe PHA currently commissions the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), a local not-for-profit community organisation, to raise awareness of the Breast, Cervical and Bowel Cancer Screening Programmes and to promote informed choice among individuals from communities and populations with historically lower cancer screening uptake rates compared with the general population. The aim of the WRDA’s programme of work is to provide individuals with sufficient information to enable them to make an informed decision about participating in cancer screening programmes. The WRDA recruit, train and support Peer Facilitators to deliver Educational Awareness Sessions to targeted service user groups, including; people from deprived areas, those from ethnic minorities, those from the LGBT+ community, homeless individuals and those with physical disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health issues. WRDA also carry out Bespoke Workshops for those latter groups with additional support needs.\n\nIn relation to working with charities to improve breast screening uptake, I can advise that during February and March 2025, Cancer Research UK (CRUK) ran a multimedia campaign to promote the three NI cancer screening programmes. The PHA worked closely with CRUK to develop this campaign. In addition, the PHA is working with Breast Cancer Now and the Rainbow Project to promote informed choice.\n\nThere are no specific funding commitments to improve breast screening uptake.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) is responsible for ensuring that all eligible women in NI can make an informed choice about attending for breast screening and that the service is as accessible as possible. The uptake rate for routine breast screening in Northern Ireland, for those invited, meets the national acceptable standard of greater than, or equal to 70.0%, as set out in the NHS Breast Screening Programme screening standards.
PHA works in partnership with other stakeholders to raise awareness of the breast cancer screening programme and to promote informed choice. Specific initiatives include the following:
the PHA chairs a regional group with representation from all Breast Screening Units in the region and Trust health promotion staff. The remit of the group is to identify opportunities to promote informed choice in the Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme (with a particular focus on women from disadvantaged communities; women who have learning/physical/ sensory disabilities; women from minority ethnic groups; older women and other women considered to have special needs); to identify and share good practice; and to advise on the provision of information to the public and health care professionals;
the PHA breast screening team includes standalone meetings related to promoting informed choice in breast screening in the Quality Assurance (QA) visits to breast screening units;
the PHA collaborates with Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure that comprehensive, up to date, information on screening is available on their website.
the PHA currently commissions the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA), a local not-for-profit community organisation, to raise awareness of the Breast, Cervical and Bowel Cancer Screening Programmes and to promote informed choice among individuals from communities and populations with historically lower cancer screening uptake rates compared with the general population. The aim of the WRDA’s programme of work is to provide individuals with sufficient information to enable them to make an informed decision about participating in cancer screening programmes. The WRDA recruit, train and support Peer Facilitators to deliver Educational Awareness Sessions to targeted service user groups, including; people from deprived areas, those from ethnic minorities, those from the LGBT+ community, homeless individuals and those with physical disabilities, learning disabilities or mental health issues. WRDA also carry out Bespoke Workshops for those latter groups with additional support needs.
In relation to working with charities to improve breast screening uptake, I can advise that during February and March 2025, Cancer Research UK (CRUK) ran a multimedia campaign to promote the three NI cancer screening programmes. The PHA worked closely with CRUK to develop this campaign. In addition, the PHA is working with Breast Cancer Now and the Rainbow Project to promote informed choice.
There are no specific funding commitments to improve breast screening uptake.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027422%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=440222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=440222"}},{"id":"439680","reference":"AQW 27190/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-15","answerBy":"2025-06-02","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any support provided to children and young people who are victims of upskirting; and (ii) whether these measures are age-appropriate and trauma-informed.","answerText":"I am aware of the particular harm and distress caused by the abhorrent and intrusive behaviour of up-skirting and other forms of voyeurism, not least to our children and young people, in an evolving society where access to, and advances in, technology provides more opportunities for its perpetrators.\n\nI recognise the need for access to age appropriate and trauma-informed support and I am pleased that a range of such services is available for victims, either partly or fully funded by my Department. These include: a 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Helpline; Victim Support NI (VSNI) services; and the NSPCC Young Witness Service (YWS).\n\nDSA Helpline staff receive specialised training to ensure they can respond sensitively to the needs of all victims, including children, young people, and those with additional vulnerabilities. Age-appropriate responses are central to the service, ensuring that support is tailored to the developmental stage, understanding, and needs of each individual. The approach is trauma-informed and prioritises safety, empowerment and trust-building and minimises re-traumatisation.\n\nVSNI has a number of services that can provide relevant support to children and young people who have been victim to this offence, including its Community Service and its Young Victim Service. Its staff and volunteers provide emotional support, advocacy, information and advice to victims after the crime has occurred. This support is based on the World Health Organisation’s ‘psychological first aid’ model, which is used worldwide to support people in the aftermath of a stressful event and is very much age-appropriate and trauma-informed. When appropriate, VSNI also signposts/refers victims to other specialist services.\n\nThe YWS, whose staff have social work training, provides individually-tailored support to all young prosecution witnesses under the age of 18 years old who are called to give evidence, to enable them to give their best evidence at the court hearing.\n\nSupport for victims of crime, including victims of sexual abuse, continues to be a key priority for me as Justice Minister.\n\nThe Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which I jointly published in September 2024 with the Health Minister, recognises the damage that all forms of sexual abuse can have on children and young people, including non-contact sexual abuse such as upskirting and downblousing. The Strategy’s Children and Young People Pillar sets a clear direction to help prevent all forms of domestic and/or sexual abuse from happening and to ensure that children and young people, who are victims, are seen and heard; and can access services and receive support to help them to recover.\n\nMy Department has also recently published a consultation on proposals for a new Victims and Witnesses of Crime Strategy 2025-2030. One of the Strategy’s five delivery pillars focuses specifically on children and young people. It aims to deliver a child-centred approach by providing tailored, responsive and specialised support in an age-appropriate manner, to reduce trauma and understand needs.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the particular harm and distress caused by the abhorrent and intrusive behaviour of up-skirting and other forms of voyeurism, not least to our children and young people, in an evolving society where access to, and advances in, technology provides more opportunities for its perpetrators.
I recognise the need for access to age appropriate and trauma-informed support and I am pleased that a range of such services is available for victims, either partly or fully funded by my Department. These include: a 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) Helpline; Victim Support NI (VSNI) services; and the NSPCC Young Witness Service (YWS).
DSA Helpline staff receive specialised training to ensure they can respond sensitively to the needs of all victims, including children, young people, and those with additional vulnerabilities. Age-appropriate responses are central to the service, ensuring that support is tailored to the developmental stage, understanding, and needs of each individual. The approach is trauma-informed and prioritises safety, empowerment and trust-building and minimises re-traumatisation.
VSNI has a number of services that can provide relevant support to children and young people who have been victim to this offence, including its Community Service and its Young Victim Service. Its staff and volunteers provide emotional support, advocacy, information and advice to victims after the crime has occurred. This support is based on the World Health Organisation’s ‘psychological first aid’ model, which is used worldwide to support people in the aftermath of a stressful event and is very much age-appropriate and trauma-informed. When appropriate, VSNI also signposts/refers victims to other specialist services.
The YWS, whose staff have social work training, provides individually-tailored support to all young prosecution witnesses under the age of 18 years old who are called to give evidence, to enable them to give their best evidence at the court hearing.
Support for victims of crime, including victims of sexual abuse, continues to be a key priority for me as Justice Minister.
The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, which I jointly published in September 2024 with the Health Minister, recognises the damage that all forms of sexual abuse can have on children and young people, including non-contact sexual abuse such as upskirting and downblousing. The Strategy’s Children and Young People Pillar sets a clear direction to help prevent all forms of domestic and/or sexual abuse from happening and to ensure that children and young people, who are victims, are seen and heard; and can access services and receive support to help them to recover.
My Department has also recently published a consultation on proposals for a new Victims and Witnesses of Crime Strategy 2025-2030. One of the Strategy’s five delivery pillars focuses specifically on children and young people. It aims to deliver a child-centred approach by providing tailored, responsive and specialised support in an age-appropriate manner, to reduce trauma and understand needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027190%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439680"}},{"id":"439679","reference":"AQW 27189/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-15","answerBy":"2025-06-02","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what plans she has to raise public awareness around upskirting and other forms of image-based sexual abuse.","answerText":"A dedicated public awareness campaign to promote the introduction of the up-skirting offence, as well as the other new intimate-image based offences of down-blousing and cyber-flashing, was carried out by the Department from November 2023 to the end of March 2024.\n\nThis formed part of the wider communication and promotional strategy which was used to deliver implementation of the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, in which the three offences are contained. Promotion was extended across a range of social media platforms, as well outdoor placement advertising, to coincide with commencement of the new offences.\n\nI continue to keep potential further public awareness raising exercises in this area under review.","answerHtml":"A dedicated public awareness campaign to promote the introduction of the up-skirting offence, as well as the other new intimate-image based offences of down-blousing and cyber-flashing, was carried out by the Department from November 2023 to the end of March 2024.
This formed part of the wider communication and promotional strategy which was used to deliver implementation of the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, in which the three offences are contained. Promotion was extended across a range of social media platforms, as well outdoor placement advertising, to coincide with commencement of the new offences.
I continue to keep potential further public awareness raising exercises in this area under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027189%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439679"}},{"id":"439678","reference":"AQW 27188/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-15","answerBy":"2025-06-02","answered":"2025-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what guidance is provided to schools on identifying, preventing, and responding to incidents of upskirting among pupils.","answerText":"My department provides guidance for educational settings on all child protection and safeguarding matters.\n\nIn 2022, the Department of Justice introduced new legislation which established new offences, including up-skirting. My department’s guidance was reviewed to include information on these new offences and also how schools can identify harmful sexual behaviour, alongside providing advice on dealing with these issues as they emerge.","answerHtml":"My department provides guidance for educational settings on all child protection and safeguarding matters.
In 2022, the Department of Justice introduced new legislation which established new offences, including up-skirting. My department’s guidance was reviewed to include information on these new offences and also how schools can identify harmful sexual behaviour, alongside providing advice on dealing with these issues as they emerge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027188%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439678"}},{"id":"439677","reference":"AQW 27187/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-15","answerBy":"2025-06-02","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of reported incidents of upskirting in Northern Ireland in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The Department does not hold information on offences reported to the police in its datasets. The recording of information on the number of incidents reported to the police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to offences reported to police, as detailed in your question, to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold information on offences reported to the police in its datasets. The recording of information on the number of incidents reported to the police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to offences reported to police, as detailed in your question, to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027187%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439677"}},{"id":"444556","reference":"AQO 2041/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-15","answerBy":"2025-05-27","answered":"2025-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether there are any plans to review how data is collected in order to achieve an outcome-based accountability policy approach.","answerText":"An outcomes-based approach is valuable in developing and monitoring the implementation of policy, but other ways of measuring progress are also needed.\n\nWe have learnt a great deal about outcome-based approaches over recent years, and an important development in this regard was the Executive’s Programme for Government Wellbeing Framework. The Framework builds on previous work on improving outcomes and wellbeing for all, and covers a combination of social, environmental, economic, and democratic factors, which are considered essential for society to flourish.\n\nWhen first launched, the framework had 47 indicators, and we’ve since added another four to address gaps that were identified following our engagement with key stakeholders. Work is continuing to add new data, notably to help us identify inequalities across different groups and to add more indicators.\n\nWe collaborate with NISRA colleagues to ensure that we have robust, timely and reliable data to inform the work of the whole Executive, as we look to improve wellbeing for everyone living here.","answerHtml":"An outcomes-based approach is valuable in developing and monitoring the implementation of policy, but other ways of measuring progress are also needed.
We have learnt a great deal about outcome-based approaches over recent years, and an important development in this regard was the Executive’s Programme for Government Wellbeing Framework. The Framework builds on previous work on improving outcomes and wellbeing for all, and covers a combination of social, environmental, economic, and democratic factors, which are considered essential for society to flourish.
When first launched, the framework had 47 indicators, and we’ve since added another four to address gaps that were identified following our engagement with key stakeholders. Work is continuing to add new data, notably to help us identify inequalities across different groups and to add more indicators.
We collaborate with NISRA colleagues to ensure that we have robust, timely and reliable data to inform the work of the whole Executive, as we look to improve wellbeing for everyone living here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202041%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=444556","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=444556"}},{"id":"439317","reference":"AQW 27009/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit compared to the last 5 years.","answerText":"The table below details how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit, Causeway Hospital, compared to the last five years.\n\n2025\t2024\t2023\t2022\t2021\n39\t41\t41\t37\t36\n\nThe table below outlines the number of patients supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, following admission in the last five years, from 1st April – 31st March for each financial year.\n\n2020/2021\t2021/2022\t2022/2023\t2023/2024\t2024/2025\n167\t151\t138\t138\t140\n\nA stepped care approach is taken to supporting service users with their mental health, matching a person’s need with the right level of support. The You in Mind, Regional Care Pathway, explains how a person who may require mental health support, can access mental health care, and the steps involved. This pathway includes specialist mental health services. There are a range of specialist mental health services accessible to service users, including for example the Forensic Mental Health Service, Psychological Therapy Services, Peri Natal Mental Health Service and Eating Disorders Service.\n\nWhere following assessment, clinical and risk factors indicate that admission is necessary, Trusts endeavour to arrange admission to an acute mental health unit within their own Trust, closest to the address of the patient. Where there is no immediately available bed, the Trust will consider alternative options within their Trust facilities. In exceptional circumstances, where no suitable bed can be found, and where deemed critically necessary for the safety and wellbeing of the patient, a bed may have to be sourced from another Trust. Patients will be involved in all decisions involving their care and treatment.","answerHtml":"The table below details how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit, Causeway Hospital, compared to the last five years.
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
| 39 | 41 | 41 | 37 | 36 |
The table below outlines the number of patients supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, following admission in the last five years, from 1st April – 31st March for each financial year.
| 2020/2021 | 2021/2022 | 2022/2023 | 2023/2024 | 2024/2025 |
| 167 | 151 | 138 | 138 | 140 |
A stepped care approach is taken to supporting service users with their mental health, matching a person’s need with the right level of support. The You in Mind, Regional Care Pathway, explains how a person who may require mental health support, can access mental health care, and the steps involved. This pathway includes specialist mental health services. There are a range of specialist mental health services accessible to service users, including for example the Forensic Mental Health Service, Psychological Therapy Services, Peri Natal Mental Health Service and Eating Disorders Service.
Where following assessment, clinical and risk factors indicate that admission is necessary, Trusts endeavour to arrange admission to an acute mental health unit within their own Trust, closest to the address of the patient. Where there is no immediately available bed, the Trust will consider alternative options within their Trust facilities. In exceptional circumstances, where no suitable bed can be found, and where deemed critically necessary for the safety and wellbeing of the patient, a bed may have to be sourced from another Trust. Patients will be involved in all decisions involving their care and treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027009%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439317","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439317"}},{"id":"439316","reference":"AQW 27008/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the future plans for the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, including whether there are proposals to expand or reconfigure its services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027008%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439316"}},{"id":"439315","reference":"AQW 27007/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how many people have been supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The table below details how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit, Causeway Hospital, compared to the last five years.\n\n2025\t2024\t2023\t2022\t2021\n39\t41\t41\t37\t36\n\nThe table below outlines the number of patients supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, following admission in the last five years, from 1st April – 31st March for each financial year.\n\n2020/2021\t2021/2022\t2022/2023\t2023/2024\t2024/2025\n167\t151\t138\t138\t140\n\nA stepped care approach is taken to supporting service users with their mental health, matching a person’s need with the right level of support. The You in Mind, Regional Care Pathway, explains how a person who may require mental health support, can access mental health care, and the steps involved. This pathway includes specialist mental health services. There are a range of specialist mental health services accessible to service users, including for example the Forensic Mental Health Service, Psychological Therapy Services, Peri Natal Mental Health Service and Eating Disorders Service.\n\nWhere following assessment, clinical and risk factors indicate that admission is necessary, Trusts endeavour to arrange admission to an acute mental health unit within their own Trust, closest to the address of the patient. Where there is no immediately available bed, the Trust will consider alternative options within their Trust facilities. In exceptional circumstances, where no suitable bed can be found, and where deemed critically necessary for the safety and wellbeing of the patient, a bed may have to be sourced from another Trust. Patients will be involved in all decisions involving their care and treatment.","answerHtml":"The table below details how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit, Causeway Hospital, compared to the last five years.
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
| 39 | 41 | 41 | 37 | 36 |
The table below outlines the number of patients supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, following admission in the last five years, from 1st April – 31st March for each financial year.
| 2020/2021 | 2021/2022 | 2022/2023 | 2023/2024 | 2024/2025 |
| 167 | 151 | 138 | 138 | 140 |
A stepped care approach is taken to supporting service users with their mental health, matching a person’s need with the right level of support. The You in Mind, Regional Care Pathway, explains how a person who may require mental health support, can access mental health care, and the steps involved. This pathway includes specialist mental health services. There are a range of specialist mental health services accessible to service users, including for example the Forensic Mental Health Service, Psychological Therapy Services, Peri Natal Mental Health Service and Eating Disorders Service.
Where following assessment, clinical and risk factors indicate that admission is necessary, Trusts endeavour to arrange admission to an acute mental health unit within their own Trust, closest to the address of the patient. Where there is no immediately available bed, the Trust will consider alternative options within their Trust facilities. In exceptional circumstances, where no suitable bed can be found, and where deemed critically necessary for the safety and wellbeing of the patient, a bed may have to be sourced from another Trust. Patients will be involved in all decisions involving their care and treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027007%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439315"}},{"id":"439314","reference":"AQW 27006/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-13","answerBy":"2025-05-29","answered":"2025-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department is ensuring that people living in rural East Londonderry continue to have access to specialist mental health support close to home.","answerText":"The table below details how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit, Causeway Hospital, compared to the last five years.\n\n2025\t2024\t2023\t2022\t2021\n39\t41\t41\t37\t36\n\nThe table below outlines the number of patients supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, following admission in the last five years, from 1st April – 31st March for each financial year.\n\n2020/2021\t2021/2022\t2022/2023\t2023/2024\t2024/2025\n167\t151\t138\t138\t140\n\nA stepped care approach is taken to supporting service users with their mental health, matching a person’s need with the right level of support. The You in Mind, Regional Care Pathway, explains how a person who may require mental health support, can access mental health care, and the steps involved. This pathway includes specialist mental health services. There are a range of specialist mental health services accessible to service users, including for example the Forensic Mental Health Service, Psychological Therapy Services, Peri Natal Mental Health Service and Eating Disorders Service.\n\nWhere following assessment, clinical and risk factors indicate that admission is necessary, Trusts endeavour to arrange admission to an acute mental health unit within their own Trust, closest to the address of the patient. Where there is no immediately available bed, the Trust will consider alternative options within their Trust facilities. In exceptional circumstances, where no suitable bed can be found, and where deemed critically necessary for the safety and wellbeing of the patient, a bed may have to be sourced from another Trust. Patients will be involved in all decisions involving their care and treatment.","answerHtml":"The table below details how many staff are currently employed within the Ross Thompson Unit, Causeway Hospital, compared to the last five years.
| 2025 | 2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 |
| 39 | 41 | 41 | 37 | 36 |
The table below outlines the number of patients supported by the Ross Thompson Unit in the Causeway Hospital, following admission in the last five years, from 1st April – 31st March for each financial year.
| 2020/2021 | 2021/2022 | 2022/2023 | 2023/2024 | 2024/2025 |
| 167 | 151 | 138 | 138 | 140 |
A stepped care approach is taken to supporting service users with their mental health, matching a person’s need with the right level of support. The You in Mind, Regional Care Pathway, explains how a person who may require mental health support, can access mental health care, and the steps involved. This pathway includes specialist mental health services. There are a range of specialist mental health services accessible to service users, including for example the Forensic Mental Health Service, Psychological Therapy Services, Peri Natal Mental Health Service and Eating Disorders Service.
Where following assessment, clinical and risk factors indicate that admission is necessary, Trusts endeavour to arrange admission to an acute mental health unit within their own Trust, closest to the address of the patient. Where there is no immediately available bed, the Trust will consider alternative options within their Trust facilities. In exceptional circumstances, where no suitable bed can be found, and where deemed critically necessary for the safety and wellbeing of the patient, a bed may have to be sourced from another Trust. Patients will be involved in all decisions involving their care and treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027006%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=439314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=439314"}},{"id":"438731","reference":"AQW 26768/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what consideration she has given to the long-term impact on (i) recruitment; and (ii) retention, in further education if the pay disparity with school teachers remains unresolved.","answerText":"I am pleased to update that I was able to facilitate a multi-year pay offer as a further step towards pay parity with teachers and I remain fully supportive of equitable remuneration for Further Education lecturers. I understand Further Education colleges, as the employers, are proposing a range of agreed workstreams as part of the pay offer, including on school teachers’ pay scale parity. I hope that the pay offer is accepted as it will have a positive impact on recruitment and retention.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to update that I was able to facilitate a multi-year pay offer as a further step towards pay parity with teachers and I remain fully supportive of equitable remuneration for Further Education lecturers. I understand Further Education colleges, as the employers, are proposing a range of agreed workstreams as part of the pay offer, including on school teachers’ pay scale parity. I hope that the pay offer is accepted as it will have a positive impact on recruitment and retention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026768%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438731","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438731"}},{"id":"438730","reference":"AQW 26767/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of the role of further education lecturers in delivering her Department’s skills agenda; and (ii) to detail how this is reflected in current pay and workforce policy.","answerText":"I strongly believe that the Further Education lecturers play a vital role in helping to provide individuals with the necessary skills and education to deliver on my skills agenda, and my wider vision for the economy. In recognition of this role, I am pleased that I was able to facilitate a multi-year pay offer for Further Education lecturers. In relation to workforce policy, the Further Education colleges, as the employers, are progressing a range of agreed workstreams, including workload, in conjunction with Trade Unions in the 2025/26 academic year.","answerHtml":"I strongly believe that the Further Education lecturers play a vital role in helping to provide individuals with the necessary skills and education to deliver on my skills agenda, and my wider vision for the economy. In recognition of this role, I am pleased that I was able to facilitate a multi-year pay offer for Further Education lecturers. In relation to workforce policy, the Further Education colleges, as the employers, are progressing a range of agreed workstreams, including workload, in conjunction with Trade Unions in the 2025/26 academic year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438730","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438730"}},{"id":"438729","reference":"AQW 26766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-08","answerBy":"2025-05-23","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail how she ensures that her Department treats teaching roles across further education equitably with teaching roles in schools, particularly in terms of (i) remuneration; and (ii) recognition.","answerText":"Remuneration and recognition for those with teaching roles in schools falls under the responsibility of the Department of Education, whilst my Department holds responsibility for the Further Education colleges as employers of those with teaching roles across further education. My predecessor provided a budget envelope last year which allowed for an 11.2% pay increase for Further Education lecturers for 2023/24, which aligned with that provided for schoolteachers. I am pleased that I was able to facilitate a multi-year pay offer which again took cognisance of the pay increase agreed for schoolteachers for 2024/25 as a further step towards parity for Further Education lecturers. I remain fully supportive of equitable remuneration and recognition for Further Education lecturers.","answerHtml":"Remuneration and recognition for those with teaching roles in schools falls under the responsibility of the Department of Education, whilst my Department holds responsibility for the Further Education colleges as employers of those with teaching roles across further education. My predecessor provided a budget envelope last year which allowed for an 11.2% pay increase for Further Education lecturers for 2023/24, which aligned with that provided for schoolteachers. I am pleased that I was able to facilitate a multi-year pay offer which again took cognisance of the pay increase agreed for schoolteachers for 2024/25 as a further step towards parity for Further Education lecturers. I remain fully supportive of equitable remuneration and recognition for Further Education lecturers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438729","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438729"}},{"id":"438514","reference":"AQW 26686/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-07","answerBy":"2025-05-22","answered":"2025-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) how many breaches of Non-Molestation Orders have been recorded in each of the last five years; and (ii) how many of these breaches resulted in a prosecution.","answerText":"The recording of information on the number of breaches of Non-Molestation Orders recorded by them is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board. You may, therefore, wish to direct part (i) of your question to the PSNI.\n\nIn relation to the information requested in part (ii) of the question, information for prosecutions and convictions at courts for breaches of Non-Molestation Order offences that were dealt with in the period 2020 to 2024, the most recent five years for which information is available, has been provided in the following table.\n\nProsecutions and Convictions at courts for ‘Breach of Non-Molestation Order’ offences, 2020 to 2024\n\nYear\tProsecutions\tConvictions\n2020\t255\t181\n2021\t441\t283\n2022\t380\t252\n2023\t339\t233\n2024\t324\t185\n\nNote:\n\n1. Figures relate to initial disposal at court only. Results of appeals are not included.\n\n2. Figures relate to defendants who were prosecuted or convicted at court for at least one count of the offence ‘Breach of a Non-Molestation Order’.\n\n3. Figures for 2024 are provisional.\n\n4. Figures provided relate to the time period in which cases were dealt with. The offences themselves may have occurred outside of the five years reported.","answerHtml":"The recording of information on the number of breaches of Non-Molestation Orders recorded by them is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board. You may, therefore, wish to direct part (i) of your question to the PSNI.
In relation to the information requested in part (ii) of the question, information for prosecutions and convictions at courts for breaches of Non-Molestation Order offences that were dealt with in the period 2020 to 2024, the most recent five years for which information is available, has been provided in the following table.
Prosecutions and Convictions at courts for ‘Breach of Non-Molestation Order’ offences, 2020 to 2024
| Year | Prosecutions | Convictions |
| 2020 | 255 | 181 |
| 2021 | 441 | 283 |
| 2022 | 380 | 252 |
| 2023 | 339 | 233 |
| 2024 | 324 | 185 |
Note:
1. Figures relate to initial disposal at court only. Results of appeals are not included.
2. Figures relate to defendants who were prosecuted or convicted at court for at least one count of the offence ‘Breach of a Non-Molestation Order’.
3. Figures for 2024 are provisional.
4. Figures provided relate to the time period in which cases were dealt with. The offences themselves may have occurred outside of the five years reported.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026686%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438514"}},{"id":"438513","reference":"AQW 26685/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-07","answerBy":"2025-05-22","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether the Department has assessed public confidence in Non-Molestation Orders as a protective measure, particularly among victims of domestic abuse.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nNon-Molestation Orders (NMOs) are significant in the context of tackling domestic abuse and safe-guarding victims.\n\nThe cross-Departmental Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy is led by the Departments of Justice and Health, and my Department retains an interest in relation to civil measures of this nature. The Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime has commissioned a researcher to carry out some quantitative analysis on data relating to the application, granting and outcomes in cases of breach of NMOs. My officials will liaise with colleagues in other Departments and will carefully consider the findings of that work.\n\nThe Department of Justice is also progressing work to develop an effective model for Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders, and my officials will continue to monitor developments relating to this issue.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs) are significant in the context of tackling domestic abuse and safe-guarding victims.
The cross-Departmental Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy is led by the Departments of Justice and Health, and my Department retains an interest in relation to civil measures of this nature. The Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime has commissioned a researcher to carry out some quantitative analysis on data relating to the application, granting and outcomes in cases of breach of NMOs. My officials will liaise with colleagues in other Departments and will carefully consider the findings of that work.
The Department of Justice is also progressing work to develop an effective model for Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Domestic Abuse Protection Orders, and my officials will continue to monitor developments relating to this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026685%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438513","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438513"}},{"id":"438512","reference":"AQW 26684/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-07","answerBy":"2025-05-22","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether data on Non-Molestation Order breaches is used to inform improvements in domestic abuse policy and enforcement.","answerText":"Responsibility for policy and legislation relating to Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs) rests with the Minister of Finance: however, I recognise their role in tackling domestic abuse and safeguarding victims and I acknowledge the importance of using data and evidence on a range of interventions, including NMOs, to inform improvements to domestic abuse policy and enforcement.\n\nI am aware that the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime has heard concerns from victims and victim support organisations regarding inconsistencies in the application and granting of Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs) and Occupation Orders (OOs), as well as the criminal justice response when such orders are breached. I understand that the Commissioner Designate has subsequently commissioned research to gain a deeper understanding of how these orders are being used and their perceived effectiveness in safeguarding victims of domestic abuse.\n\nI understand that the first part of this research is in its final stages. This is a quantitative analysis of available data on NMO and OO applications which looks at grant rates, breaches, and criminal justice outcomes following breaches. I have been advised that, following completion of the data analysis, the Commissioner intends to take forward a qualitative exercise to engage with victims, support organisations, police and legal professionals. This will explore the statistical findings in more depth and seek practical solutions to strengthen the protective order regime and improve outcomes for victims.\n\nIt is anticipated that the research will be completed and published during the summer months. My Department will carefully consider the findings and use the learning to inform and develop future domestic abuse policy responses, including identifying opportunities for improving the protective measures available to victims.\n\nMy officials are also working closely with the PSNI and key stakeholders on the development of a viable model to support the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders, ensuring that it will meet the needs of victims in Northern Ireland. The findings of the Commissioner Designate’s research will help to inform this work and support the design of a victim-centred and meaningful protective order and notice framework.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for policy and legislation relating to Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs) rests with the Minister of Finance: however, I recognise their role in tackling domestic abuse and safeguarding victims and I acknowledge the importance of using data and evidence on a range of interventions, including NMOs, to inform improvements to domestic abuse policy and enforcement.
I am aware that the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime has heard concerns from victims and victim support organisations regarding inconsistencies in the application and granting of Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs) and Occupation Orders (OOs), as well as the criminal justice response when such orders are breached. I understand that the Commissioner Designate has subsequently commissioned research to gain a deeper understanding of how these orders are being used and their perceived effectiveness in safeguarding victims of domestic abuse.
I understand that the first part of this research is in its final stages. This is a quantitative analysis of available data on NMO and OO applications which looks at grant rates, breaches, and criminal justice outcomes following breaches. I have been advised that, following completion of the data analysis, the Commissioner intends to take forward a qualitative exercise to engage with victims, support organisations, police and legal professionals. This will explore the statistical findings in more depth and seek practical solutions to strengthen the protective order regime and improve outcomes for victims.
It is anticipated that the research will be completed and published during the summer months. My Department will carefully consider the findings and use the learning to inform and develop future domestic abuse policy responses, including identifying opportunities for improving the protective measures available to victims.
My officials are also working closely with the PSNI and key stakeholders on the development of a viable model to support the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders, ensuring that it will meet the needs of victims in Northern Ireland. The findings of the Commissioner Designate’s research will help to inform this work and support the design of a victim-centred and meaningful protective order and notice framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026684%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438512","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438512"}},{"id":"438511","reference":"AQW 26683/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-07","answerBy":"2025-05-22","answered":"2025-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what steps are being taken to (i) prevent repeated breaches of Non-Molestation Orders; and (ii) ensure that victims feel adequately safeguarded.","answerText":"I recognise the concerns that have been raised around of the operation and effectiveness of Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs), including in relation to breach of these Orders.\n\nResponsibility for policy and legislation relating to NMOs rests with the Minister of Finance, but I recognise their critical role in tackling domestic abuse and safeguarding victims.\n\nI understand that the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime is carrying out quantitative analysis on data relating to the application, granting and outcomes in cases of breach of NMOs in order to assess their effectiveness and identify any potential weaknesses. I await the outcome of that work and will consider its findings carefully, in conjunction with the Minister for Finance, to identify any necessary improvements.\n\nIn addition, my Department is continuing to progress work to develop a viable model to support the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPNs/DAPOs) to Northern Ireland. My officials are working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to ensure any new system is effective and appropriate for our legal and operational context. This work has included learning visits to pilot areas in England and engagement with frontline officers and stakeholders, with plans for further visits and for a roundtable policy workshop with interested voluntary and community sector Organisations.\n\nThis evidence-led, stakeholder-informed approach underlines my commitment to strengthening protection for victims and ensuring any new measures are both operationally effective and responsive to victims’ needs.","answerHtml":"I recognise the concerns that have been raised around of the operation and effectiveness of Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs), including in relation to breach of these Orders.
Responsibility for policy and legislation relating to NMOs rests with the Minister of Finance, but I recognise their critical role in tackling domestic abuse and safeguarding victims.
I understand that the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime is carrying out quantitative analysis on data relating to the application, granting and outcomes in cases of breach of NMOs in order to assess their effectiveness and identify any potential weaknesses. I await the outcome of that work and will consider its findings carefully, in conjunction with the Minister for Finance, to identify any necessary improvements.
In addition, my Department is continuing to progress work to develop a viable model to support the introduction of Domestic Abuse Protection Notices and Orders (DAPNs/DAPOs) to Northern Ireland. My officials are working closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to ensure any new system is effective and appropriate for our legal and operational context. This work has included learning visits to pilot areas in England and engagement with frontline officers and stakeholders, with plans for further visits and for a roundtable policy workshop with interested voluntary and community sector Organisations.
This evidence-led, stakeholder-informed approach underlines my commitment to strengthening protection for victims and ensuring any new measures are both operationally effective and responsive to victims’ needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026683%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438511","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438511"}},{"id":"438510","reference":"AQW 26682/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-07","answerBy":"2025-05-22","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether there are plans to review or strengthen the legislative framework underpinning Non-Molestation Orders to ensure they provide meaningful protection.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nMy Department was responsible for the primary legislation governing Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs), the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (NI) Order 1998.\n\nAlthough there are no current plans to review the Order, following a previous review by my Department, the sentencing relating to breaches of non-molestation orders was increased from 3 to 6 months.\n\nPursuant to AQW 24847/22-27, the Minister of Justice advised that her Department is actively working to identify where gaps in protection exist and is currently exploring how Domestic Abuse Protection Orders could be introduced with the aim of providing enhanced protection for victims.\n\nMy officials continue to liaise with colleagues in other Departments who have responsibility for domestic abuse policy and will take account of other examinations of the effectiveness of NMOs, with a view to exploring this issue further with relevant colleagues.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
My Department was responsible for the primary legislation governing Non-Molestation Orders (NMOs), the Family Homes and Domestic Violence (NI) Order 1998.
Although there are no current plans to review the Order, following a previous review by my Department, the sentencing relating to breaches of non-molestation orders was increased from 3 to 6 months.
Pursuant to AQW 24847/22-27, the Minister of Justice advised that her Department is actively working to identify where gaps in protection exist and is currently exploring how Domestic Abuse Protection Orders could be introduced with the aim of providing enhanced protection for victims.
My officials continue to liaise with colleagues in other Departments who have responsibility for domestic abuse policy and will take account of other examinations of the effectiveness of NMOs, with a view to exploring this issue further with relevant colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026682%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438510","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438510"}},{"id":"438400","reference":"AQW 26615/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether data is being collected on the mental health outcomes of mothers up to one year postpartum; and (ii) how this data is informing the design and delivery of services.","answerText":"I can confirm that (i) data is being collected on the mental health outcomes of mothers up to one year postpartum. This data collection is part of a broader effort to monitor and improve perinatal mental health services.\n\nThe Perinatal Mental Health Service has been gathering pre and post-intervention questionnaires for various support groups such as the Postnatal Support Group, Emotional Regulation Group, and Incredible Babies Group. These questionnaires are collected when a patient enters the service, during treatment, and on discharge, which includes up to one year postpartum.\n\nWe are also exploring how Perinatal Mental Health Outcomes can be reported at both regional and trust levels, to support more comprehensive monitoring and service improvement.\n\nIn summary, the collection and analysis of data on the mental health outcomes of mothers up to one year postpartum are integral to our efforts to enhance and tailor perinatal mental health services across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe data collected is crucial for informing the design and delivery of services. It helps in understanding the effectiveness of current interventions and identifying areas for improvement. For example, the Southern Trust Perinatal Mental Health Team has completed surveys with women on their caseload, which includes assessments on admission and discharge, and at various points during treatment. This ongoing assessment helps tailor the services to the needs of the women and informs continuous service improvement\n\nFurthermore, the data informs broader strategic initiatives such as the development of community perinatal mental health teams across all Trusts, which aim to provide specialist services for mothers experiencing mental health issues during the perinatal period. This is part of a phased approach to enhance perinatal mental health services regionally.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that (i) data is being collected on the mental health outcomes of mothers up to one year postpartum. This data collection is part of a broader effort to monitor and improve perinatal mental health services.
The Perinatal Mental Health Service has been gathering pre and post-intervention questionnaires for various support groups such as the Postnatal Support Group, Emotional Regulation Group, and Incredible Babies Group. These questionnaires are collected when a patient enters the service, during treatment, and on discharge, which includes up to one year postpartum.
We are also exploring how Perinatal Mental Health Outcomes can be reported at both regional and trust levels, to support more comprehensive monitoring and service improvement.
In summary, the collection and analysis of data on the mental health outcomes of mothers up to one year postpartum are integral to our efforts to enhance and tailor perinatal mental health services across Northern Ireland.
The data collected is crucial for informing the design and delivery of services. It helps in understanding the effectiveness of current interventions and identifying areas for improvement. For example, the Southern Trust Perinatal Mental Health Team has completed surveys with women on their caseload, which includes assessments on admission and discharge, and at various points during treatment. This ongoing assessment helps tailor the services to the needs of the women and informs continuous service improvement
Furthermore, the data informs broader strategic initiatives such as the development of community perinatal mental health teams across all Trusts, which aim to provide specialist services for mothers experiencing mental health issues during the perinatal period. This is part of a phased approach to enhance perinatal mental health services regionally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026615%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438400","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438400"}},{"id":"438399","reference":"AQW 26614/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the Regional Perinatal Mental Health Pathway; and (ii) for his assessment of whether it adequately addresses the long-term psychological impact of childbirth on women.","answerText":"(i) Since becoming Health Minister, I have repeatedly stated that improving mental health services, including perinatal mental health, is one of my top priorities. I am delighted that all five Trusts now have a fully operational community perinatal mental health team in place, each accepting referrals and providing a range of interventions to women experiencing mental health problems during the perinatal period. Action 29a of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-31, made a commitment to continue to roll-out perinatal mental health services, including inpatient services. The first phase of this was the establishment of these perinatal mental health teams within each Trust.\n\nI was delighted to launch the updated Perinatal Mental Health Care Pathway in March 2025 which has integrated the community perinatal mental health teams into the pathway of care. It provides guidance to all health and social care professionals who come into contact with women in the antenatal and postnatal period across all settings, inclusive of primary care.\n\n(ii) The specialist perinatal mental health teams that are now operational in each Health and Social Care Trust provide a comprehensive service dedicated to treating illness in the mother alongside supporting and enhancing the relationship between the mother and her infant. The teams have a range of professionals with skills and expertise in this area, including parent infant psychotherapists, health visitors, midwives and psychologists. The new specialist teams support women up to one-year post childbirth (with some flexibility). At the point of discharge, referral on to other services, both statutory and voluntary, can be made if required.\n\nEach team is already starting to see very positive outcomes from these interventions.\n\nThe teams are also involved in training initiatives with a wide range of professionals for those women who do not meet threshold for specialist services.\n\nThe second phase of this programme of work includes the delivery of a Mother and Baby Unit (MBU). Work is now at an advanced stage in developing a business case to progress the investment required to take this forward.","answerHtml":"(i) Since becoming Health Minister, I have repeatedly stated that improving mental health services, including perinatal mental health, is one of my top priorities. I am delighted that all five Trusts now have a fully operational community perinatal mental health team in place, each accepting referrals and providing a range of interventions to women experiencing mental health problems during the perinatal period. Action 29a of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-31, made a commitment to continue to roll-out perinatal mental health services, including inpatient services. The first phase of this was the establishment of these perinatal mental health teams within each Trust.
I was delighted to launch the updated Perinatal Mental Health Care Pathway in March 2025 which has integrated the community perinatal mental health teams into the pathway of care. It provides guidance to all health and social care professionals who come into contact with women in the antenatal and postnatal period across all settings, inclusive of primary care.
(ii) The specialist perinatal mental health teams that are now operational in each Health and Social Care Trust provide a comprehensive service dedicated to treating illness in the mother alongside supporting and enhancing the relationship between the mother and her infant. The teams have a range of professionals with skills and expertise in this area, including parent infant psychotherapists, health visitors, midwives and psychologists. The new specialist teams support women up to one-year post childbirth (with some flexibility). At the point of discharge, referral on to other services, both statutory and voluntary, can be made if required.
Each team is already starting to see very positive outcomes from these interventions.
The teams are also involved in training initiatives with a wide range of professionals for those women who do not meet threshold for specialist services.
The second phase of this programme of work includes the delivery of a Mother and Baby Unit (MBU). Work is now at an advanced stage in developing a business case to progress the investment required to take this forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026614%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438399","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438399"}},{"id":"438398","reference":"AQW 26613/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any support available for mothers who do not meet the threshold for clinical intervention but continue to experience mental health challenges after childbirth.","answerText":"There are a wide range of services in existence in maternity services, primary care and the community and voluntary sector that adopt a trauma focused approach and are dedicated to supporting women to parent their children and support women across the spectrum of mental health issues that occur that do not meet the threshold for clinical intervention. These include specialist midwifery and health visiting initiatives.\n\nOne such initiative is the Continuity of Midwifery Carer which was launched in May 2023. This new model of maternity care provides integrated, appropriate and seamless care for all women through their journey from pregnancy and birth to early parenthood. Research has concluded that midwife continuity of carer models save babies’ lives, reduce interventions and improve clinical outcomes and women’s experiences.\n\nSpecialist Perinatal Mental Health teams are now operational in each Health and Social Care Trust and provide a comprehensive service dedicated to treating illness in the mother alongside supporting and enhancing the relationship between the mother and her infant. These teams are also involved in training initiatives with a wide range of professionals for those women who do not meet threshold for specialist services.","answerHtml":"There are a wide range of services in existence in maternity services, primary care and the community and voluntary sector that adopt a trauma focused approach and are dedicated to supporting women to parent their children and support women across the spectrum of mental health issues that occur that do not meet the threshold for clinical intervention. These include specialist midwifery and health visiting initiatives.
One such initiative is the Continuity of Midwifery Carer which was launched in May 2023. This new model of maternity care provides integrated, appropriate and seamless care for all women through their journey from pregnancy and birth to early parenthood. Research has concluded that midwife continuity of carer models save babies’ lives, reduce interventions and improve clinical outcomes and women’s experiences.
Specialist Perinatal Mental Health teams are now operational in each Health and Social Care Trust and provide a comprehensive service dedicated to treating illness in the mother alongside supporting and enhancing the relationship between the mother and her infant. These teams are also involved in training initiatives with a wide range of professionals for those women who do not meet threshold for specialist services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026613%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438398","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438398"}},{"id":"438397","reference":"AQW 26612/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-06","answerBy":"2025-05-21","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of women that have accessed support from community perinatal mental health teams in each of the last three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The table below details the number of women that have accessed support from community perinatal mental health teams in each of the last three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nTrust\t2022\t2023\t2024\nBelfast Trust\tData not available, team was not fully operational\t131\t143\nNorthern Trust\tData not available, team was not fully operational\t101\t175\nSouth Eastern Trust\tData not available, team was not fully operational\t95\t120\nSouthern Trust\tData not available, team was not fully operational\t92\t104\nWestern Trust\tData not available, team was not fully operational\t(Accepting referrals from October 2023)\n10\t75\nTotal\t-\t429\t617","answerHtml":"The table below details the number of women that have accessed support from community perinatal mental health teams in each of the last three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.
| Trust | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 |
| Belfast Trust | Data not available, team was not fully operational | 131 | 143 |
| Northern Trust | Data not available, team was not fully operational | 101 | 175 |
| South Eastern Trust | Data not available, team was not fully operational | 95 | 120 |
| Southern Trust | Data not available, team was not fully operational | 92 | 104 |
| Western Trust | Data not available, team was not fully operational | (Accepting referrals from October 2023) 10 | 75 |
| Total | - | 429 | 617 |
The business case for the Mother and Baby Unit is well-progressed with further work currently being carried out to strengthen the proposal and to future proof the Unit. It is almost nearing completion and will be submitted to the Department’s commissioning team in SPPG for scrutiny. However, progression of the project will remain subject to the necessary funding being identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026611%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438396"}},{"id":"438133","reference":"AQW 26483/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department will review legal aid eligibility rules where a nil Universal Credit award prevents automatic entitlement for victims of domestic abuse.","answerText":"The system of “passporting” people on certain means tested benefits, including those in receipt of Universal Credit, is an administrative procedure based on the premise that people entitled to these benefits have already had their means assessed by the Department for Communities (DfC) who established that their income levels are such that they would more than likely meet the financial means test for legal aid – thereby avoiding duplication of effort and resources on assessment.\n\nA nil award is made where a person’s income from employment, other income, or their capital or savings exceed relevant limits. For this reason, there is no automatic award of legal aid in these circumstances.\n\nIf they are not eligible for passporting in this way, an applicant may be eligible for legal aid through either the waiver for non-molestation order applications, or the waiver for victims of domestic abuse who are respondents to contact or residence orders relating to children.\n\nThe issue of financial eligibility for legal aid, including the rules relating to victims of domestic abuse is being considered as part of my Department’s ongoing Enabling Access to Justice Reform Programme.","answerHtml":"The system of “passporting” people on certain means tested benefits, including those in receipt of Universal Credit, is an administrative procedure based on the premise that people entitled to these benefits have already had their means assessed by the Department for Communities (DfC) who established that their income levels are such that they would more than likely meet the financial means test for legal aid – thereby avoiding duplication of effort and resources on assessment.
A nil award is made where a person’s income from employment, other income, or their capital or savings exceed relevant limits. For this reason, there is no automatic award of legal aid in these circumstances.
If they are not eligible for passporting in this way, an applicant may be eligible for legal aid through either the waiver for non-molestation order applications, or the waiver for victims of domestic abuse who are respondents to contact or residence orders relating to children.
The issue of financial eligibility for legal aid, including the rules relating to victims of domestic abuse is being considered as part of my Department’s ongoing Enabling Access to Justice Reform Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026483%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438133","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438133"}},{"id":"438132","reference":"AQW 26482/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any assessment her Department has made of the impact of requiring financial contributions on women seeking non-molestation orders under Regulation 10 of the Civil Legal Services (Financial) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015.","answerText":"Victims of domestic abuse may face financial barriers when seeking legal assistance, particularly where they have limited or no independent income due to the nature of the abusive relationship. Although the normal full test of financial eligibility is automatically disregarded in relation to non-molestation orders, there can be situations whereby a small contribution is required. We have no evidence of these contributions presenting a meaningful barrier to justice for this group.\n\nThe current rules say that, where people are not in receipt of a passporting benefit, they must undergo a test of their means, however, the contributions are typically small and they are also payable over time, rather than up front.\n\nBased on the evidence gathered through the foundational review of civil legal services, and two independent research projects looking specifically at the experience of victims of domestic abuse, the main barriers to uptake of the non-molestation waiver are lack of awareness and solicitors being unwilling to take on legal aid work, however the issue of financial eligibility, including for the rules applying to vulnerable groups including victims of domestic abuse, and the remuneration rates for representatives, are being considered as part of my departments ongoing reform process.","answerHtml":"Victims of domestic abuse may face financial barriers when seeking legal assistance, particularly where they have limited or no independent income due to the nature of the abusive relationship. Although the normal full test of financial eligibility is automatically disregarded in relation to non-molestation orders, there can be situations whereby a small contribution is required. We have no evidence of these contributions presenting a meaningful barrier to justice for this group.
The current rules say that, where people are not in receipt of a passporting benefit, they must undergo a test of their means, however, the contributions are typically small and they are also payable over time, rather than up front.
Based on the evidence gathered through the foundational review of civil legal services, and two independent research projects looking specifically at the experience of victims of domestic abuse, the main barriers to uptake of the non-molestation waiver are lack of awareness and solicitors being unwilling to take on legal aid work, however the issue of financial eligibility, including for the rules applying to vulnerable groups including victims of domestic abuse, and the remuneration rates for representatives, are being considered as part of my departments ongoing reform process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026482%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438132","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438132"}},{"id":"438131","reference":"AQW 26481/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how her Department ensures women experiencing financial control or coercive control are not disadvantaged in legal aid assessments due to a lack of independent income.","answerText":"I am aware that victims of domestic abuse often face financial barriers when seeking legal assistance, particularly where they have limited or no independent income due to the abusive relationship. Section 28 of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings (Northern Ireland) Act 2021 provides the Director of Legal Aid the discretion to disregard the financial eligibility thresholds for victims of domestic abuse where an evidentiary letter is provided in response to Article 8 Children Order (Northern Ireland) 1995 proceedings brought by the perpetrator of their abuse exactly for this reason.\n\nIn addition, the legal aid financial eligibility threshold tests are automatically disregarded in relation to non-molestation orders for victims of domestic abuse.\n\nI am committed, through the Enabling Access to Justice Delivery Plan, to improving support for this group, by building new, simpler routes by which people can access comprehensive legal help to navigate the Justice issues that domestic abuse victims face, including in both the criminal and the family courts. My officials will be engaging directly with stakeholders on this vital issue over the coming months.","answerHtml":"I am aware that victims of domestic abuse often face financial barriers when seeking legal assistance, particularly where they have limited or no independent income due to the abusive relationship. Section 28 of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings (Northern Ireland) Act 2021 provides the Director of Legal Aid the discretion to disregard the financial eligibility thresholds for victims of domestic abuse where an evidentiary letter is provided in response to Article 8 Children Order (Northern Ireland) 1995 proceedings brought by the perpetrator of their abuse exactly for this reason.
In addition, the legal aid financial eligibility threshold tests are automatically disregarded in relation to non-molestation orders for victims of domestic abuse.
I am committed, through the Enabling Access to Justice Delivery Plan, to improving support for this group, by building new, simpler routes by which people can access comprehensive legal help to navigate the Justice issues that domestic abuse victims face, including in both the criminal and the family courts. My officials will be engaging directly with stakeholders on this vital issue over the coming months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026481%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438131","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438131"}},{"id":"438130","reference":"AQW 26480/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-19","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any engagement her Department has had with women’s support organisations in the last five years to assess the practical impact of legal aid eligibility rules on access to justice for domestic abuse victims.","answerText":"During the development and passage through the Assembly of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 (DACPA), Department of Justice officials consulted with and met a range of women’s support organisations, and other organisations involved in supporting people who have experienced domestic abuse. This engagement helped to shape the provisions of that Act, and specifically with reference to legal aid, resulted in the adoption of provision for a waiver of financial eligibility limits for legal aid in certain circumstances for victims of domestic abuse.\n\nSince then, my Department has commissioned two pieces of research aimed specifically at understanding the experiences of victims of domestic abuse with the justice system in general and with legal aid in particular. These are the research commissioned to inform the Department’s statutory report on legal aid and domestic abuse, as required by s. 29 of DACPA, and a further review and rapid priority setting exercise conducted by researchers at Ulster University, to inform the Department’s own foundational review of civil legal services, which itself involved direct engagement with organisations supporting victims of domestic abuse.\n\nAs a result of this engagement, the Department has a strong evidence base that clearly indicates a need for additional support for domestic abuse victims. These additional support measures will be advanced as part of the implementation of the Enabling Access to Justice Delivery Plan, and will be developed in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.","answerHtml":"During the development and passage through the Assembly of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 (DACPA), Department of Justice officials consulted with and met a range of women’s support organisations, and other organisations involved in supporting people who have experienced domestic abuse. This engagement helped to shape the provisions of that Act, and specifically with reference to legal aid, resulted in the adoption of provision for a waiver of financial eligibility limits for legal aid in certain circumstances for victims of domestic abuse.
Since then, my Department has commissioned two pieces of research aimed specifically at understanding the experiences of victims of domestic abuse with the justice system in general and with legal aid in particular. These are the research commissioned to inform the Department’s statutory report on legal aid and domestic abuse, as required by s. 29 of DACPA, and a further review and rapid priority setting exercise conducted by researchers at Ulster University, to inform the Department’s own foundational review of civil legal services, which itself involved direct engagement with organisations supporting victims of domestic abuse.
As a result of this engagement, the Department has a strong evidence base that clearly indicates a need for additional support for domestic abuse victims. These additional support measures will be advanced as part of the implementation of the Enabling Access to Justice Delivery Plan, and will be developed in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026480%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438130","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438130"}},{"id":"438191","reference":"AQO 1959/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-05-01","answerBy":"2025-05-12","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide an update on when a decision will be made regarding the initial site for Causeway Academy.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Givan (The Minister of Education)","text":"The Education Authority (EA) submitted a business case to my Department on 4 April 2025 to facilitate the establishment of Causeway Academy. My Department has never had such a significant capital requirement presented to it arising from an approved development proposal (DP), and it has never committed to such significant works to facilitate a DP as those proposed for Causeway Academy without the full rigours of a major works call for projects. I met EA officials on 8 April to discuss the options in the business case, and I asked for the options to be reviewed and the business case resubmitted to my Department. That work is currently under way."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I appreciate that: that is new information. The Minister will be conscious that the delay in announcing the new school site will have an impact on people applying for the new Causeway Academy and we need that reassurance as soon as possible. Does he have a timeline for when we can expect that answer?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"I appreciate the comments and share the views that the Member has raised with me. I have met the principals behind the school, and, recently, I have engaged with the newly appointed principal who will take forward the school, and those concerns have been expressed to me. As I said in my original response, I have met my senior officials and the EA, and they are reviewing the issues for me. Options are being considered. They include the operation of the school on a split-site basis. It would be premature, though, to speculate on the preferred site option until all options under consideration had been progressed through the business case process. That is what will identify the preferred way forward. I appreciate the question about the timeline, and I have asked EA and my officials to bring forward information on that as soon as possible so that we can give clarity to the school."},{"speaker":"Mr Mathison","text":"Can the Minister provide an update on the identification of an agreed site for mid Down integrated college and on the ongoing progress to deliver that project?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"The question is exclusively about the Causeway proposal. Members can ask what they wish, but I do not have a response prepared for that question."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Blair)","text":"Members have been reminded already today that questions should relate directly to the original question."},{"speaker":"Mr Bradley","text":"Having had meetings for several years with the educational establishments that will form the new school, I am extremely disappointed that it is now back to the drawing board and that no clarity has been given. Can the Minister provide clarity, at least to the new board of governors, on where the project is going to go and the way forward?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"Mr Bradley has been a consistent and passionate campaigner for progress to be made on the site. He has made representation to me on a number of occasions. The challenge that has presented is with the significant, major capital expenditure in order to facilitate location on the site that had been identified and with which the Member will be familiar. I have met officials and suggested that they need to look at an approach that makes it much more manageable financially. My preference is that we commence the work at the preferred site. That is what I want the day-1 solution to be, and that is what I am still asking my officials to work towards. They are reviewing the process that was brought forward. I have asked them to give me a solution that would meet what, I know, the Member and other Members who have made representations to me on this want. It is frustrating for me that I am not in that position today. I understand that it is much more frustrating for those involved that we still do not have the clarity that is needed to make the progress that, I know, the Member wants, and I will continue to persevere on his behalf."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201959%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=438191","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-05-12&docID=438445#AQO%201959/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=438191"}},{"id":"437987","reference":"AQW 26378/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any immediate action being taken to investigate and address recent media reports of illegal puppy farmers euthanising dogs due to reduced demand.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the media report and has been in contact with local councils to ascertain whether the claim in relation to euthanising dogs is substantiated. However, no council has received reports to support the claim, nor is the Department aware of any evidence indicating such activities are occurring.\n\nLocal councils are responsible for enforcing legislation pertaining to animal welfare and dog breeding and any concerns should be addressed to them for further investigation.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the media report and has been in contact with local councils to ascertain whether the claim in relation to euthanising dogs is substantiated. However, no council has received reports to support the claim, nor is the Department aware of any evidence indicating such activities are occurring.
Local councils are responsible for enforcing legislation pertaining to animal welfare and dog breeding and any concerns should be addressed to them for further investigation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026378%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437987","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437987"}},{"id":"437986","reference":"AQW 26377/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether the proposed expert review of dog breeding regulations will include an assessment of the adequacy of enforcement mechanisms to prevent illegal breeding practices.","answerText":"The Expert Advisory Group, when established, will be assigned to conduct a comprehensive review of current dog breeding regulations and their implementation in Northern Ireland. As part of this, the Group will be engaging with key stakeholders, including local councils through their statutory enforcement role, to collect pertinent evidence to inform its report and recommendations.","answerHtml":"The Expert Advisory Group, when established, will be assigned to conduct a comprehensive review of current dog breeding regulations and their implementation in Northern Ireland. As part of this, the Group will be engaging with key stakeholders, including local councils through their statutory enforcement role, to collect pertinent evidence to inform its report and recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026377%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437986","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437986"}},{"id":"437985","reference":"AQW 26376/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any measures being considered to regulate canine fertility services.","answerText":"My Department has recently launched a recruitment competition to appoint an Expert Advisory Group to review the current dog breeding regulations in Northern Ireland. This will include examining whether canine fertility clinics need regulation. Once the review is complete, I will then consider the Group's recommendations and decide on any necessary next steps.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently launched a recruitment competition to appoint an Expert Advisory Group to review the current dog breeding regulations in Northern Ireland. This will include examining whether canine fertility clinics need regulation. Once the review is complete, I will then consider the Group's recommendations and decide on any necessary next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026376%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437985","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437985"}},{"id":"437984","reference":"AQW 26375/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any steps being taken to enhance collaboration with local councils and animal welfare organisations to identify and shut down illegal puppy farms.","answerText":"My Department maintains regular engagement with councils, by liaising with members of the Northern Ireland Dog Advisory Council and through councils participation in the Paws for Thought initiative, which aims to tackle the breeding and trafficking of low welfare pups. Officials also maintain contact with the Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG) and I would encourage all animal welfare organisations are to report any evidence of illegal breeding to the relevant local council for investigation.","answerHtml":"My Department maintains regular engagement with councils, by liaising with members of the Northern Ireland Dog Advisory Council and through councils participation in the Paws for Thought initiative, which aims to tackle the breeding and trafficking of low welfare pups. Officials also maintain contact with the Northern Ireland Companion Animal Welfare Group (NICAWG) and I would encourage all animal welfare organisations are to report any evidence of illegal breeding to the relevant local council for investigation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026375%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437984","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437984"}},{"id":"437983","reference":"AQW 26374/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-30","answerBy":"2025-05-16","answered":"2025-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether his Department has engaged with the Department of Justice to strengthen penalties for those involved in illegal dog breeding or animal cruelty.","answerText":"I, along with officials from my Department and the Department of Justice, recently met with the USPCA, to discuss their recent report on animal welfare sentencing in Northern Ireland. My officials have also engaged with the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) to examine how animal welfare prosecutions are processed, particularly in relation to understanding the factors which determine the mode of trial.\n\nThe penalties available for animal welfare offences, under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, do already afford a high degree of protection to animals. The maximum penalty available is five years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine. This is in line with other jurisdictions, and when introduced, were the most stringent across the UK.","answerHtml":"I, along with officials from my Department and the Department of Justice, recently met with the USPCA, to discuss their recent report on animal welfare sentencing in Northern Ireland. My officials have also engaged with the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) to examine how animal welfare prosecutions are processed, particularly in relation to understanding the factors which determine the mode of trial.
The penalties available for animal welfare offences, under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, do already afford a high degree of protection to animals. The maximum penalty available is five years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine. This is in line with other jurisdictions, and when introduced, were the most stringent across the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026374%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=437983","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=437983"}},{"id":"436519","reference":"AQW 25974/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-10","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department is considering expanding the cross-border elective healthcare scheme to include diagnostic assessments for ASD and ADHD.","answerText":"As outlined in my statement to the Assembly, I plan to establish a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme, as part of a package of initiatives to tackle hospital care backlogs.\n\nThe Scheme will allow patients, who have been placed on a Health and Social Care waiting list for elective surgery or treatment, the option to seek and pay for treatment in the private sector and have the cost reimbursed. Diagnostic assessments for ASD and ADHD will be outside the parameters of the Scheme.","answerHtml":"As outlined in my statement to the Assembly, I plan to establish a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme, as part of a package of initiatives to tackle hospital care backlogs.
The Scheme will allow patients, who have been placed on a Health and Social Care waiting list for elective surgery or treatment, the option to seek and pay for treatment in the private sector and have the cost reimbursed. Diagnostic assessments for ASD and ADHD will be outside the parameters of the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025974%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436519"}},{"id":"436518","reference":"AQW 25973/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-10","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the amount of money recouped by his Department through the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive; and (i) the amount written off due to non-recovery while the scheme was active.","answerText":"I refer the member to the answer to AQW 25972/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to the answer to AQW 25972/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025973%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436518"}},{"id":"436517","reference":"AQW 25972/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-10","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any barriers his Department has identified in recouping costs associated with the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive; and (ii) how these barriers will be addressed in future schemes.","answerText":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (RoIRS) was a limited administrative version of the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive (CBHD) which ceased to apply to Northern Ireland (NI) following the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union.\n\nThe CBHD set out a framework of rules which allowed patients to seek and pay for treatment in either the state or private sectors in an EEA country and apply to for reimbursement of the cost (up to the cost of treatment in Health and Social Care in NI).\n\nUnder the RoIRS, patients were able to seek, and pay for, routinely commissioned treatment in the private sector in the Republic of Ireland and have the cost reimbursed (up to the cost of treatment in Health and Social Care in NI). To use the scheme patients had to receive prior authorisation before travelling for treatment.\n\nAs these were both reimbursement schemes, the Department did not recoup any money through either the CBHD or RoIRS.","answerHtml":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (RoIRS) was a limited administrative version of the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive (CBHD) which ceased to apply to Northern Ireland (NI) following the United Kingdom’s exit from the European Union.
The CBHD set out a framework of rules which allowed patients to seek and pay for treatment in either the state or private sectors in an EEA country and apply to for reimbursement of the cost (up to the cost of treatment in Health and Social Care in NI).
Under the RoIRS, patients were able to seek, and pay for, routinely commissioned treatment in the private sector in the Republic of Ireland and have the cost reimbursed (up to the cost of treatment in Health and Social Care in NI). To use the scheme patients had to receive prior authorisation before travelling for treatment.
As these were both reimbursement schemes, the Department did not recoup any money through either the CBHD or RoIRS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025972%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436517"}},{"id":"436516","reference":"AQW 25971/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-10","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the monitoring mechanisms in place to ensure private providers comply with financial arrangements when delivering publicly-funded treatment.","answerText":"HSC Trusts engage directly with the Independent Sector using the standard financial contracting arrangements. All contracts are assessed for value for money before being agreed and payments are only made once invoices are received and the work is verified. Monitoring of this process will include the checking of invoice tariffs against contracted rates and the identification of duplicate invoicing. This will be based on the individual contractual arrangements agreed in advance and may vary in nature.","answerHtml":"HSC Trusts engage directly with the Independent Sector using the standard financial contracting arrangements. All contracts are assessed for value for money before being agreed and payments are only made once invoices are received and the work is verified. Monitoring of this process will include the checking of invoice tariffs against contracted rates and the identification of duplicate invoicing. This will be based on the individual contractual arrangements agreed in advance and may vary in nature.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025971%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436516"}},{"id":"436515","reference":"AQW 25970/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-10","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the total amount of money recovered by his Department for healthcare provided to patients not Ordinarily Resident in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The total amount of money recovered for healthcare provided to patients not Ordinarily Resident in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years, as reported by HSC Trusts, is summarised in the following table.\n\nYear\t£m*\n2020/21\t2.1\n2021/22\t1.8\n2022/23\t2.4\n2023/24\t2.0\n2024/25**\t2.7\n\n*Note: figures above have been rounded to the nearest £0.1m.\n\n** Note: 2024/25 not finalised, early estimate of final value included in table.\n\nThis income includes items such as overseas patients, UK cross border emergency treatments and income relating to European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Contract activity with HSC for Republic of Ireland patients is not included.","answerHtml":"The total amount of money recovered for healthcare provided to patients not Ordinarily Resident in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years, as reported by HSC Trusts, is summarised in the following table.
| Year | £m* |
| 2020/21 | 2.1 |
| 2021/22 | 1.8 |
| 2022/23 | 2.4 |
| 2023/24 | 2.0 |
| 2024/25** | 2.7 |
*Note: figures above have been rounded to the nearest £0.1m.
** Note: 2024/25 not finalised, early estimate of final value included in table.
This income includes items such as overseas patients, UK cross border emergency treatments and income relating to European Health Insurance Card (EHIC). Contract activity with HSC for Republic of Ireland patients is not included.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025970%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436515"}},{"id":"436361","reference":"AQW 25888/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-09","answerBy":"2025-04-28","answered":"2025-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether his Department has undertaken a review of current training capacity within Northern Ireland’s universities for nursing and allied health professions; and (ii) whether this aligns with projected local workforce demands.","answerText":"Commissioning of both pre-registration and post-registration training for nursing, midwifery and allied health professions is a collaborative process between my Department, higher education providers and HSC Trusts. Commissioning plans are informed by HSC Trusts’ training and workforce planning needs analysis that is undertaken on an annual basis.\n\nMy Department has not undertaken a review of current training capacity within the universities for nursing and allied health professions.\n\nUnder the current contract for the commissioning of pre-registration nursing and allied health professions training programmes, assessment of training capacity is a matter for the universities.\n\nFor post-registration arrangements, the Department works with universities via the established DoH Nursing and Midwifery and Allied Health Professions post-registration education commissioning process to ensure education commissioning plans are drawn up which reflect service needs in line with strategic priorities.\n\nThe Department maintains a close working relationship with the universities and provides as much foresight as possible on future commissioning intentions, subject to affordability considerations.","answerHtml":"Commissioning of both pre-registration and post-registration training for nursing, midwifery and allied health professions is a collaborative process between my Department, higher education providers and HSC Trusts. Commissioning plans are informed by HSC Trusts’ training and workforce planning needs analysis that is undertaken on an annual basis.
My Department has not undertaken a review of current training capacity within the universities for nursing and allied health professions.
Under the current contract for the commissioning of pre-registration nursing and allied health professions training programmes, assessment of training capacity is a matter for the universities.
For post-registration arrangements, the Department works with universities via the established DoH Nursing and Midwifery and Allied Health Professions post-registration education commissioning process to ensure education commissioning plans are drawn up which reflect service needs in line with strategic priorities.
The Department maintains a close working relationship with the universities and provides as much foresight as possible on future commissioning intentions, subject to affordability considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025888%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436361"}},{"id":"436360","reference":"AQW 25887/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-09","answerBy":"2025-04-28","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any support mechanisms in place to assist internationally-recruited health and social care staff in adapting to the communication, cultural and clinical expectations of the health service in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"International recruitment is a key avenue in addressing our workforce resource issues and ensuring that the health & social care service can deliver the safe and effective service for patients. The international recruits who arrive to work here across our HSC system provide an immensely valuable contribution to the delivery of health and social care services, let alone to our communities.\n\nThe provision of robust pastoral support and professional induction for international recruits across our HSC workforce is vitally important to ensure they are able to adapt to their arrival in a new country, workplace and community.\n\nA regional HSC Working Group meet regularly to consider all aspects of the recruitment and retention of our international recruits, and this includes how best to assist them to settle within the workplace. Each HSC Trust has a dedicated resource who will support with social induction, pastoral care and professional training, including working with recruits on their communication skills, practicing using the telephone, role plays, and understanding local colloquialisms.\n\nThe HSC Clinical Education Centre runs Objective Structured Clinical Examination preparation programmes designed to support international recruits with clinical expectations whilst HSC Trusts maintain strong links with Professional Bodies and their international ‘Welcome’ programmes.\n\nAs well as helping our international recruits to understand our local cultures, the HSC Trusts support our locally trained workforce with cultural competency training, promoting open communication and celebrating the diversity of our international staff and creating an inclusive environment for all of our HSC workforce.","answerHtml":"International recruitment is a key avenue in addressing our workforce resource issues and ensuring that the health & social care service can deliver the safe and effective service for patients. The international recruits who arrive to work here across our HSC system provide an immensely valuable contribution to the delivery of health and social care services, let alone to our communities.
The provision of robust pastoral support and professional induction for international recruits across our HSC workforce is vitally important to ensure they are able to adapt to their arrival in a new country, workplace and community.
A regional HSC Working Group meet regularly to consider all aspects of the recruitment and retention of our international recruits, and this includes how best to assist them to settle within the workplace. Each HSC Trust has a dedicated resource who will support with social induction, pastoral care and professional training, including working with recruits on their communication skills, practicing using the telephone, role plays, and understanding local colloquialisms.
The HSC Clinical Education Centre runs Objective Structured Clinical Examination preparation programmes designed to support international recruits with clinical expectations whilst HSC Trusts maintain strong links with Professional Bodies and their international ‘Welcome’ programmes.
As well as helping our international recruits to understand our local cultures, the HSC Trusts support our locally trained workforce with cultural competency training, promoting open communication and celebrating the diversity of our international staff and creating an inclusive environment for all of our HSC workforce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025887%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436360"}},{"id":"436359","reference":"AQW 25886/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-09","answerBy":"2025-04-28","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment that has been made of the barriers facing people from Northern Ireland in pursuing careers in the health and social care sector.","answerText":"Currently the main route into a career in registered healthcare professions is through pre-registration undergraduate training. While the number of pre-registration training places commissioned by my Department has increased in recent years, these still fall below the numbers my Department have identified through strategic workforce planning as necessary to grow the health and social care workforce to the level required to deliver the most effective treatment and care to the people of Northern Ireland.\n\nThere remains a high interest in these professions, which means that the volume of applications for places on these undergraduate programmes regularly exceeds the numbers of available places. Many people from Northern Ireland who wish to pursue a career in health and social care are therefore unable to do so. Additional recurrent funding would enable my Department to increase the numbers commissioned to the levels required, providing greater training opportunities for local people who wish to pursue a career in health and social care.\n\nI am also mindful that the financial commitment required to undertake undergraduate training may be a barrier to pursuing a career in health and social care for some sections of the population here. I am currently exploring with my officials possible future changes to the financial support provided to students on the pre-registration healthcare programmes commissioned by my Department. I anticipate that the associated process of policy development will provide an opportunity to assess any financial barriers to individuals commencing careers in health and social care.\n\nIn addition, my Department is also exploring opportunities to expand training and recruitment pathways into registered healthcare professions beyond existing pre-registration training routes. Ongoing work in this area includes the commissioning of pre-registration nursing and social work education at the Open University and the proposed development of a pilot public sector apprenticeship in diagnostic radiography. It is hoped this pilot will enable an assessment to be made of the suitability of apprenticeships to the HSC more generally.","answerHtml":"Currently the main route into a career in registered healthcare professions is through pre-registration undergraduate training. While the number of pre-registration training places commissioned by my Department has increased in recent years, these still fall below the numbers my Department have identified through strategic workforce planning as necessary to grow the health and social care workforce to the level required to deliver the most effective treatment and care to the people of Northern Ireland.
There remains a high interest in these professions, which means that the volume of applications for places on these undergraduate programmes regularly exceeds the numbers of available places. Many people from Northern Ireland who wish to pursue a career in health and social care are therefore unable to do so. Additional recurrent funding would enable my Department to increase the numbers commissioned to the levels required, providing greater training opportunities for local people who wish to pursue a career in health and social care.
I am also mindful that the financial commitment required to undertake undergraduate training may be a barrier to pursuing a career in health and social care for some sections of the population here. I am currently exploring with my officials possible future changes to the financial support provided to students on the pre-registration healthcare programmes commissioned by my Department. I anticipate that the associated process of policy development will provide an opportunity to assess any financial barriers to individuals commencing careers in health and social care.
In addition, my Department is also exploring opportunities to expand training and recruitment pathways into registered healthcare professions beyond existing pre-registration training routes. Ongoing work in this area includes the commissioning of pre-registration nursing and social work education at the Open University and the proposed development of a pilot public sector apprenticeship in diagnostic radiography. It is hoped this pilot will enable an assessment to be made of the suitability of apprenticeships to the HSC more generally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025886%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436359"}},{"id":"436358","reference":"AQW 25885/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-09","answerBy":"2025-04-28","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his Department’s assessment of the factors that have contributed to the increased reliance on an international workforce by Health and Social Care Trusts in recent years; and (ii) to detail any measures being taken to address domestic workforce shortages that have led to such reliance.","answerText":"International recruitment is a key avenue in addressing our workforce resource issues and ensuring that the health & social care service can deliver the safe and effective service for patients. The international recruits who arrive to work here across our HSC system provide an immensely valuable contribution to the delivery of health and social care services, let alone to our communities.\n\nMy Department’s vision for the health and social care workforce is outlined in the Health and Social Care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for our People. The Strategy was published in May 2018 following detailed engagement with stakeholders from across the health and social care system with the aim of ‘meeting our workforce needs and the needs of our workforce’.\n\nThe multi-faceted approach to workforce development outlined in the Strategy includes effective workforce planning, commissioning appropriate levels of pre- and post-registration training, better attraction and recruitment of staff, developing alternative training pathways into a career in health and social care such as apprenticeships, reducing agency dependency, developing initiatives to improve staff retention and provision of effective staff health and wellbeing services.\n\nThis strategic approach to workforce development has supported a 17.2% increase in whole time equivalent staff directly employed across the HSC since the Strategy was published. This amounts to 9,786 additional whole time equivalent staff across the HSC, including 989 (+23.6%) more medical and dental staff, 2,891 (+19.1%) more registered nurses and midwives and 1,928 (+23.7%) more professional and technical staff.","answerHtml":"International recruitment is a key avenue in addressing our workforce resource issues and ensuring that the health & social care service can deliver the safe and effective service for patients. The international recruits who arrive to work here across our HSC system provide an immensely valuable contribution to the delivery of health and social care services, let alone to our communities.
My Department’s vision for the health and social care workforce is outlined in the Health and Social Care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for our People. The Strategy was published in May 2018 following detailed engagement with stakeholders from across the health and social care system with the aim of ‘meeting our workforce needs and the needs of our workforce’.
The multi-faceted approach to workforce development outlined in the Strategy includes effective workforce planning, commissioning appropriate levels of pre- and post-registration training, better attraction and recruitment of staff, developing alternative training pathways into a career in health and social care such as apprenticeships, reducing agency dependency, developing initiatives to improve staff retention and provision of effective staff health and wellbeing services.
This strategic approach to workforce development has supported a 17.2% increase in whole time equivalent staff directly employed across the HSC since the Strategy was published. This amounts to 9,786 additional whole time equivalent staff across the HSC, including 989 (+23.6%) more medical and dental staff, 2,891 (+19.1%) more registered nurses and midwives and 1,928 (+23.7%) more professional and technical staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025885%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436358"}},{"id":"436357","reference":"AQW 25884/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-09","answerBy":"2025-04-28","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how Health and Social Care Trusts ensure that all staff, including those recruited from different countries, are trained to engage appropriately with non-verbal patients to prevent communication shutdown and support ongoing mental stimulation.","answerText":"Health and Social Services are provided in accordance with a person’s care plan, aligned to their assessed need. Care plans contain all necessary information to enable staff to meet the needs of the person. If there are tasks that require specific professional input, this will be clearly stated. All staff must familiarise themselves with a person’s care plan, prior to working with that person.\n\nIf specialist communication methods are required, these will be clearly outlined within the care plan, with instructions to support staff to communicate with that person. Staff who regularly work in environments with individuals with complex communication needs, undertake additional training in communication methods, such as Makaton. Speech and language professionals also provide support to staff in all service areas, to optimise communication with people who have complex needs. Additional training is available to support staff if required.\n\nHospital passports have been implemented in Northern Ireland to support people who have communication needs relay their wishes. The Hospital passport ensures that within the busy and complex environment of the hospital, communication can continue to be optimised.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts do not differentiate between staff based on their country of origin.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Services are provided in accordance with a person’s care plan, aligned to their assessed need. Care plans contain all necessary information to enable staff to meet the needs of the person. If there are tasks that require specific professional input, this will be clearly stated. All staff must familiarise themselves with a person’s care plan, prior to working with that person.
If specialist communication methods are required, these will be clearly outlined within the care plan, with instructions to support staff to communicate with that person. Staff who regularly work in environments with individuals with complex communication needs, undertake additional training in communication methods, such as Makaton. Speech and language professionals also provide support to staff in all service areas, to optimise communication with people who have complex needs. Additional training is available to support staff if required.
Hospital passports have been implemented in Northern Ireland to support people who have communication needs relay their wishes. The Hospital passport ensures that within the busy and complex environment of the hospital, communication can continue to be optimised.
Health and Social Care Trusts do not differentiate between staff based on their country of origin.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025884%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436357"}},{"id":"436161","reference":"AQW 25807/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-08","answerBy":"2025-04-25","answered":"2025-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he is ensuring transparency and accountability in the Education Authority’s decision-making process in relation to Published Admission Number allocations.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA), in cooperation with the EA Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG), is responsible for setting Pupil Allocation Numbers for non-statutory pre-school settings; my Department plays no role in this process.\n\nThe EA wrote to providers on 7 February to set out the process for the allocation of initial PANs, as well as the process for reviewing those allocations. A copy of this letter was previously placed in the Assembly Library in response to AQW 24601/22-27. This process does include specific consideration of rural pre-school settings and those that are the sole provider in a locality.\n\nNonetheless, I have requested that the EA review the PAN allocation process so that opportunities for improvement can be identified and explored.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA), in cooperation with the EA Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG), is responsible for setting Pupil Allocation Numbers for non-statutory pre-school settings; my Department plays no role in this process.
The EA wrote to providers on 7 February to set out the process for the allocation of initial PANs, as well as the process for reviewing those allocations. A copy of this letter was previously placed in the Assembly Library in response to AQW 24601/22-27. This process does include specific consideration of rural pre-school settings and those that are the sole provider in a locality.
Nonetheless, I have requested that the EA review the PAN allocation process so that opportunities for improvement can be identified and explored.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025807%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436161"}},{"id":"436160","reference":"AQW 25806/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-08","answerBy":"2025-04-25","answered":"2025-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department holds the Education Authority to account for ensuring that Published Admission Number decisions are fair and equitable, particularly for rural or voluntary pre-school providers that are the sole local provision.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA), in cooperation with the EA Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG), is responsible for setting Pupil Allocation Numbers for non-statutory pre-school settings; my Department plays no role in this process.\n\nThe EA wrote to providers on 7 February to set out the process for the allocation of initial PANs, as well as the process for reviewing those allocations. A copy of this letter was previously placed in the Assembly Library in response to AQW 24601/22-27. This process does include specific consideration of rural pre-school settings and those that are the sole provider in a locality.\n\nNonetheless, I have requested that the EA review the PAN allocation process so that opportunities for improvement can be identified and explored.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA), in cooperation with the EA Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG), is responsible for setting Pupil Allocation Numbers for non-statutory pre-school settings; my Department plays no role in this process.
The EA wrote to providers on 7 February to set out the process for the allocation of initial PANs, as well as the process for reviewing those allocations. A copy of this letter was previously placed in the Assembly Library in response to AQW 24601/22-27. This process does include specific consideration of rural pre-school settings and those that are the sole provider in a locality.
Nonetheless, I have requested that the EA review the PAN allocation process so that opportunities for improvement can be identified and explored.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025806%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436160","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436160"}},{"id":"436159","reference":"AQW 25805/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-08","answerBy":"2025-04-25","answered":"2025-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any assessment his Department has made of the impact of basing Published Admissions Numbers for pre-schools on birth rate data, rather than live application demand from families.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA), in cooperation with the EA Pre-School Education Group, is responsible for setting Pupil Allocation Numbers for non-statutory pre-school settings.\n\nThe EA wrote to providers on 7 February to set out the process for the allocation of initial PANs, as well as the process followed in reviewing those allocations. This process includes consideration of a range of factors, including live application demand.\n\nEach year, at least 99.8% children receive the offer of a funded place in a pre-school setting of their parents’ preference by the end of stage two of the pre-school admissions process. We are currently at the beginning of the second stage of the admissions process for the 2025-26 academic year. To date, 97% of children have already received the offer of a funded place in a setting of their parents’ preference. Should additional funded places be required to meet demand in local areas, the EA will adjust allocations to settings where necessary.\n\nNonetheless, I have requested that the EA review the PAN allocation process so that opportunities for improvement can be identified and explored.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA), in cooperation with the EA Pre-School Education Group, is responsible for setting Pupil Allocation Numbers for non-statutory pre-school settings.
The EA wrote to providers on 7 February to set out the process for the allocation of initial PANs, as well as the process followed in reviewing those allocations. This process includes consideration of a range of factors, including live application demand.
Each year, at least 99.8% children receive the offer of a funded place in a pre-school setting of their parents’ preference by the end of stage two of the pre-school admissions process. We are currently at the beginning of the second stage of the admissions process for the 2025-26 academic year. To date, 97% of children have already received the offer of a funded place in a setting of their parents’ preference. Should additional funded places be required to meet demand in local areas, the EA will adjust allocations to settings where necessary.
Nonetheless, I have requested that the EA review the PAN allocation process so that opportunities for improvement can be identified and explored.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025805%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436159","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436159"}},{"id":"436158","reference":"AQW 25804/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-08","answerBy":"2025-04-25","answered":"2025-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children that were unable to secure a funded pre-school place in each of the last five academic years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for administering the pre-school admissions process, as well as securing sufficient pre-school provision in local areas.\n\nThe EA has advised that at the end of stage two of the pre-school admissions process for each year, the number of children that had not been offered a funded pre-school place in a setting of their parents’ preference is as set out below.\n\nHowever, sufficient provision was available in local areas to accommodate each child and children who did not receive the offer of a funded place at the end of stage two could still access one; the EA provides details of pre-school settings with places still available to parents at the end of stage two for this purpose.\n\nParliamentary Constituency\t2024-25\t2023-24\t2022-23\t2021-22\t2020-21\nBelfast East\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nBelfast North\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nBelfast South\t*\t*\t*\t*\t8\nBelfast West\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nEast Antrim\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nEast Londonderry\t0\t0\t*\t*\t*\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t*\t0\t0\t0\t*\nFoyle\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nLagan Valley\t*\t0\t*\t*\t0\nMid Ulster\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\nNewry & Armagh\t*\t*\t0\t*\t*\nNorth Antrim\t0\t*\t*\t0\t*\nNorth Down\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nSouth Antrim\t*\t0\t0\t0\t*\nSouth Down\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nStrangford\t0\t0\t0\t0\t0\nUpper Bann\t0\t0\t*\t*\t13\nWest Tyrone\t0\t0\t*\t*\t8\nTOTAL\t7\t5\t11\t9\t40\n\n* denotes fewer than 5 pupils suppressed due to sensitive nature and potential identification of individual pupils","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for administering the pre-school admissions process, as well as securing sufficient pre-school provision in local areas.
The EA has advised that at the end of stage two of the pre-school admissions process for each year, the number of children that had not been offered a funded pre-school place in a setting of their parents’ preference is as set out below.
However, sufficient provision was available in local areas to accommodate each child and children who did not receive the offer of a funded place at the end of stage two could still access one; the EA provides details of pre-school settings with places still available to parents at the end of stage two for this purpose.
| Parliamentary Constituency | 2024-25 | 2023-24 | 2022-23 | 2021-22 | 2020-21 |
| Belfast East | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Belfast North | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Belfast South | * | * | * | * | 8 |
| Belfast West | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| East Antrim | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| East Londonderry | 0 | 0 | * | * | * |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | * | 0 | 0 | 0 | * |
| Foyle | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Lagan Valley | * | 0 | * | * | 0 |
| Mid Ulster | * | * | * | * | * |
| Newry & Armagh | * | * | 0 | * | * |
| North Antrim | 0 | * | * | 0 | * |
| North Down | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| South Antrim | * | 0 | 0 | 0 | * |
| South Down | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Strangford | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Upper Bann | 0 | 0 | * | * | 13 |
| West Tyrone | 0 | 0 | * | * | 8 |
| TOTAL | 7 | 5 | 11 | 9 | 40 |
* denotes fewer than 5 pupils suppressed due to sensitive nature and potential identification of individual pupils
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025804%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436158"}},{"id":"436157","reference":"AQW 25803/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-08","answerBy":"2025-04-25","answered":"2025-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any steps being taken to ensure the financial and operational sustainability of voluntary pre-school providers; and (ii) how their viability compares to statutory providers.","answerText":"Since my appointment as Education Minister, I have significantly increased funding for non-statutory pre-school providers..\n\nIn August 2024 I approved the payment of a one off non-consolidated stabilisation payment of £100 per pupil as part of a package of additional measures to support the early years and childcare sectors.\n\nI also approved two increases to the Pre-school Education Programme (PSEP) funding rate for non-statutory settings effective from September 2024. The most recent uplift increased the rate to £2,550 per pupil per year and represents the largest single increase in the non-statutory PSEP funding rate that my Department has ever made. It recognises the vital role which non-statutory providers play within the programme. As a result of these increases an average setting with 16 funded places will have received approximately £8,000 additional funding in the 2024/25 academic year.\n\nShould any non-statutory setting consider its funded PSEP places to be at risk due to financial or other pressures they can contact the EA PEG to discuss their concerns and, if appropriate, will be supported to apply for additional funding from the Strategic Support Fund (SSF).\n\nThe Common Funding Formula is the Department’s mechanism for allocating budgets to statutory pre-school settings funded through Local Management of Schools arrangements. The current pupil Age Weighted Pupil Unit (AWPU) for statutory pre-school settings is set out in the table below, alongside the current rate for non-statutory providers. Statutory settings are funded based on the enrolment data on the school census immediately preceding the financial year to which funding relates (i.e. 2024/25 CFF is based upon the October 2023 census).\n\nPer-Pupil Funding – 2024-25 Financial Year\n\nPart-time (£)\tFull-time (£)\nStatutory nursery school\t2,692\t4,093\nStatutory nursery unit\t2,523\t3,806\nNon-statutory\t2,550\tN/A","answerHtml":"Since my appointment as Education Minister, I have significantly increased funding for non-statutory pre-school providers..
In August 2024 I approved the payment of a one off non-consolidated stabilisation payment of £100 per pupil as part of a package of additional measures to support the early years and childcare sectors.
I also approved two increases to the Pre-school Education Programme (PSEP) funding rate for non-statutory settings effective from September 2024. The most recent uplift increased the rate to £2,550 per pupil per year and represents the largest single increase in the non-statutory PSEP funding rate that my Department has ever made. It recognises the vital role which non-statutory providers play within the programme. As a result of these increases an average setting with 16 funded places will have received approximately £8,000 additional funding in the 2024/25 academic year.
Should any non-statutory setting consider its funded PSEP places to be at risk due to financial or other pressures they can contact the EA PEG to discuss their concerns and, if appropriate, will be supported to apply for additional funding from the Strategic Support Fund (SSF).
The Common Funding Formula is the Department’s mechanism for allocating budgets to statutory pre-school settings funded through Local Management of Schools arrangements. The current pupil Age Weighted Pupil Unit (AWPU) for statutory pre-school settings is set out in the table below, alongside the current rate for non-statutory providers. Statutory settings are funded based on the enrolment data on the school census immediately preceding the financial year to which funding relates (i.e. 2024/25 CFF is based upon the October 2023 census).
Per-Pupil Funding – 2024-25 Financial Year
| Part-time (£) | Full-time (£) | |
| Statutory nursery school | 2,692 | 4,093 |
| Statutory nursery unit | 2,523 | 3,806 |
| Non-statutory | 2,550 | N/A |
Achieving convictions in sexual offence cases can be particularly challenging and can involve complex evidential and legal issues, including more recently, a significant increase in digital material. The bar is high to obtain a conviction and there is often an absence of physical evidence and corroborative witnesses, meaning the evidence frequently comes down to the accounts of the parties involved.
However, there is ongoing engagement between my Department and criminal justice partners that is intended to support victims and increase their confidence in the criminal justice system. I anticipate that this work should impact positively on conviction rates. These measures include:
research into attrition to understand the scale and the reasons for victims of sexual offences disengaging from the criminal justice process. This research is being conducted in partnership with the PSNI and PPS with an initial report expected soon. The report will be used to inform future policies aimed at reducing attrition and therefore potentially increasing convictions; and,
new interventions, including those under the Gillen Review implementation programme, that are helping to support victims and to raise their confidence in the justice system. Examples of these include:
the establishment of Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry/Londonderry. RECs allow vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence from a secure and comfortable location and importantly, they help reduce the risk of re-traumatisation by removing the possibility that victims might encounter the defendant or their supporters in or around the courthouse on the day of the trial. In 2024, 344 witnesses (199 adults and 145 children) attended a REC to give evidence. The conviction rate for cases where the witness was in a REC was 91%, with 62% by guilty plea without the need for the victim to give oral evidence;
new legislation to protect the anonymity of complainants and victims of serious sexual offences by excluding the public from Crown Court hearings;
provision of advocacy support services for high risk victims of domestic and sexual abuse; and,
the introduction of the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) service, which my Department launched in April 2021 and the corresponding Children’s SOLA (CSOLA) service which launched in February of this year. These schemes provide free, independent legal advice to complainants in serious sexual offence cases. The adult service has so far provided advice to over 2,000 complainants and since its recent launch, around 200 referrals have already been made to the CSOLA service. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many service users telling us that without SOLA support they would have not continued with their case.
I am also aware that that delay is a major source of stress that contributes to high attrition rates. Significant work is therefore underway to reduce unnecessary delay in the criminal justice system. This work incudes reform of the committal process which means complainants no longer need to give oral evidence during committal proceedings. This has not only improved the efficiency of the process but, crucially, is also improving the experience of complainants who are now only required to give oral evidence once at the crown court trial.
In addition, my Department is working with judiciary and criminal justice partners to support the operation of the judge led Under 13 and Under 16 protocols to expediate serious sexual offence cases involving children. For cases within the protocol, there has significant reduction in the average time taken between reporting the crime and court disposal. The benefits of this include removing the additional impact on young children of lengthy delays, therefore reducing anxiety and aiding their recovery.
My Department has also engaged with other criminal justice partners to inform the development and introduction of new specific offences to strengthen the law and provide additional tools for law enforcement in response to sexual offending.
This includes the introduction of new laws to deal with behaviours commonly referred to as upskirting, downblousing and cyber-flashing, as well as new laws around stalking and non-fatal strangulation. These new laws provide greater protections to individuals at risk, but they also strengthen the ability of police to respond to these crimes and to seek convictions which can lead to two years in prison for perpetrators and where committed to obtain sexual gratification, can result in the most serious offenders being placed on the sex offenders’ register for up to 10 years.
The Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime has reported that victims frequently report that fear of disclosure of their personal medical or counselling records under court disclosure processes can contribute to both their withdrawal from the criminal justice system and on occasion, to them delaying seeking help and support from professionals.
Therefore, before the end of the current mandate, I plan to introduce legislative provisions to improve the third party material disclosure process to ensure that the complainant is put on notice of any application for material, such as their counselling and medical records, and has the right to have independent legal representation at pre-trial third party material disclosure application hearings.
At a strategic level, the joint Justice / Health Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and its associated Action Plan sets out a range of measures aimed at creating a society where domestic and sexual abuse is not tolerated, where victims receive the support they need and where those responsible are held to account.
I am also aware that the PSNI and PPS are working together to develop and implement a new joint strategy and action plan on the investigation and prosecution of serious sexual offences. This will set out and inform best practice in the investigation and prosecution of sexual offences, with a focus on further reducing delay and improving victims’ experiences.
All of this work is intended to ensure victims of sexual offences are fully supported, remain within the justice system and achieve a positive outcome.
My officials will continue to engage regularly with our partners to work towards an improvement in conviction rates in sexual offences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025570%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435568"}},{"id":"435567","reference":"AQW 25569/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-03","answerBy":"2025-04-18","answered":"2025-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any measures in place to ensure that survivors of sexual violence, who do not wish to report to police, still have access to advocacy, legal and therapeutic support.","answerText":"Much of the work that my Department is progressing is focused on supporting and improving the experiences of victims of sexual crime within the criminal justice system so that they will have the confidence to come forward and report sexual crime to police.\n\nHowever, I recognise the challenges that many victims of sexual crime face and so my Department does fund a number of services for survivors of sexual violence which are not dependent on the survivor having made a report to police.\n\nCore funding of around £1.9M is provided to Victim Support NI who provide emotional support and practical advice to help victims recover from the impact of crime and trauma experienced, even if they do not want to make a report to the police. Victim Support NI works in partnership with a range of organisations and will refer or signpost victims to other specialised services who can provide the necessary support and information victims require, dependant on their individual needs.\n\nThe Sexual Offences Legal Advisers, (or SOLAs), and Children’s SOLAs are solicitors employed by Victim Support NI who can provide qualified legal advice to all victims of serious sexual offences, and in the case of children and young people, their families, either prior to or without making a report to police. The SOLAs can provide support and information on victims’ legal rights and options and, should they wish to go on to make a report to police, what they might expect on their journey through the criminal justice process.\n\nMy Department, with PSNI, jointly funds the provision of advocacy support services delivered by ASSIST NI. It is a domestic and sexual abuse advocacy support service available to victims of sexual abuse crime who primarily are engaging with the criminal justice system. ASSIST NI will provide advocacy support to victims who have self-referred to The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre and are yet to engage with the Criminal Justice System. ASSIST NI provides trauma-informed guidance, support and information and works with other service providers, advocating on the victim’s behalf, tailoring the service to the victim’s needs.\n\nIn addition to the services that my Department funds, there are other supports and services, including counselling and therapeutic services, that are provided by other Departments, including the Department of Health, that victims of sexual crime may be able to avail of.\n\nThe Department of Health jointly funds the 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline with the Department of Justice and the Department for Communities (NEXUS NI is the current provider). The Helpline is a confidential, Freephone service available 24/7. The Department of Health provides a range of therapeutic supports and investigative services for children and adults.\n\nWhile these support services do not fall within the responsibilities of the Department of Justice, nonetheless, the services that my department funds, such as Victim Support NI and ASSIST NI, can help to signpost victims to these wider specialist services to ensure that they can avail support and have their needs met.","answerHtml":"Much of the work that my Department is progressing is focused on supporting and improving the experiences of victims of sexual crime within the criminal justice system so that they will have the confidence to come forward and report sexual crime to police.
However, I recognise the challenges that many victims of sexual crime face and so my Department does fund a number of services for survivors of sexual violence which are not dependent on the survivor having made a report to police.
Core funding of around £1.9M is provided to Victim Support NI who provide emotional support and practical advice to help victims recover from the impact of crime and trauma experienced, even if they do not want to make a report to the police. Victim Support NI works in partnership with a range of organisations and will refer or signpost victims to other specialised services who can provide the necessary support and information victims require, dependant on their individual needs.
The Sexual Offences Legal Advisers, (or SOLAs), and Children’s SOLAs are solicitors employed by Victim Support NI who can provide qualified legal advice to all victims of serious sexual offences, and in the case of children and young people, their families, either prior to or without making a report to police. The SOLAs can provide support and information on victims’ legal rights and options and, should they wish to go on to make a report to police, what they might expect on their journey through the criminal justice process.
My Department, with PSNI, jointly funds the provision of advocacy support services delivered by ASSIST NI. It is a domestic and sexual abuse advocacy support service available to victims of sexual abuse crime who primarily are engaging with the criminal justice system. ASSIST NI will provide advocacy support to victims who have self-referred to The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre and are yet to engage with the Criminal Justice System. ASSIST NI provides trauma-informed guidance, support and information and works with other service providers, advocating on the victim’s behalf, tailoring the service to the victim’s needs.
In addition to the services that my Department funds, there are other supports and services, including counselling and therapeutic services, that are provided by other Departments, including the Department of Health, that victims of sexual crime may be able to avail of.
The Department of Health jointly funds the 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline with the Department of Justice and the Department for Communities (NEXUS NI is the current provider). The Helpline is a confidential, Freephone service available 24/7. The Department of Health provides a range of therapeutic supports and investigative services for children and adults.
While these support services do not fall within the responsibilities of the Department of Justice, nonetheless, the services that my department funds, such as Victim Support NI and ASSIST NI, can help to signpost victims to these wider specialist services to ensure that they can avail support and have their needs met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025569%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435567"}},{"id":"435566","reference":"AQW 25568/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-03","answerBy":"2025-04-18","answered":"2025-04-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the availability of; and (ii) funding for psychological and trauma-informed services for survivors of sexual violence, including access times in each of the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"i) NEXUS NI provides a regional counselling services to adult victims and survivors of sexual abuse and violence, commissioned by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG). Following an initial assessment each individual will be offered up to 12 counselling sessions, based on presenting need. This provision is currently specifically focussed on supporting individuals who have been victims of sexual abuse and are at the stage of their journey where therapeutic interventions are most likely to have the best outcome. This service accepts referrals from a number of agents, including, self-referrals, GPs and Health and Social Care Trusts. NEXUS apply a 13-week target but mostly engage within the first number of weeks. A longer wait can occur based on the client’s preference for counsellor and geography.\n\nThe regional Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for Northern Ireland is based at the Rowan Clinic in Antrim Area Hospital site. The centre is jointly funded by Department of Health and Department of Justice. The team delivers a range of support and services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to children, young people, women and men who have been sexually abused, assaulted or raped, whether this happened in the past or more recently. The Rowan receives victims following allegation of sexual assault for forensic medical and therapeutic examinations including sexual health examination. For further specialist psychological support victims are referred, if they consent, to Nexus for counselling services. All those aged under 18 years attending The Rowan are referred to social services. The Rowan will also discuss with the child and their family other referral agencies such as NSPCC, Letting the Future In and referral, if consented, to Child Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Victim Support Northern Ireland.\n\nii) There is variation across Trusts; with some providing support to survivors of sexual violence either directly, or via contacts with third sector providers, or a combination of direct service provision and contracts; or via more general psychological services. For example, Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) have services to support service users who have experienced sexual violence. For psychological assessment and intervention, referrals can be made to the most appropriate Psychological Services department within Adult Mental Health. Clinicians are trained and skilled in delivering trauma informed and trauma specific psychological interventions. Western Health and Social Care Trust’s (WHSCT) Moving On and Recovery team provide trauma informed support and therapy to children and their parents who have experienced sexual abuse, with varying wait times between 0-8 weeks. Psychological services within Adult Mental Health receive referrals and provide psychological therapies for adults who have experienced trauma, to include sexual violence. They are skilled in delivering trauma informed interventions and specific psychological therapies for traumas. Referrals are prioritised based on clinical risk and need.","answerHtml":"i) NEXUS NI provides a regional counselling services to adult victims and survivors of sexual abuse and violence, commissioned by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG). Following an initial assessment each individual will be offered up to 12 counselling sessions, based on presenting need. This provision is currently specifically focussed on supporting individuals who have been victims of sexual abuse and are at the stage of their journey where therapeutic interventions are most likely to have the best outcome. This service accepts referrals from a number of agents, including, self-referrals, GPs and Health and Social Care Trusts. NEXUS apply a 13-week target but mostly engage within the first number of weeks. A longer wait can occur based on the client’s preference for counsellor and geography.
The regional Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for Northern Ireland is based at the Rowan Clinic in Antrim Area Hospital site. The centre is jointly funded by Department of Health and Department of Justice. The team delivers a range of support and services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to children, young people, women and men who have been sexually abused, assaulted or raped, whether this happened in the past or more recently. The Rowan receives victims following allegation of sexual assault for forensic medical and therapeutic examinations including sexual health examination. For further specialist psychological support victims are referred, if they consent, to Nexus for counselling services. All those aged under 18 years attending The Rowan are referred to social services. The Rowan will also discuss with the child and their family other referral agencies such as NSPCC, Letting the Future In and referral, if consented, to Child Independent Sexual Violence Advocate, Victim Support Northern Ireland.
ii) There is variation across Trusts; with some providing support to survivors of sexual violence either directly, or via contacts with third sector providers, or a combination of direct service provision and contracts; or via more general psychological services. For example, Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) have services to support service users who have experienced sexual violence. For psychological assessment and intervention, referrals can be made to the most appropriate Psychological Services department within Adult Mental Health. Clinicians are trained and skilled in delivering trauma informed and trauma specific psychological interventions. Western Health and Social Care Trust’s (WHSCT) Moving On and Recovery team provide trauma informed support and therapy to children and their parents who have experienced sexual abuse, with varying wait times between 0-8 weeks. Psychological services within Adult Mental Health receive referrals and provide psychological therapies for adults who have experienced trauma, to include sexual violence. They are skilled in delivering trauma informed interventions and specific psychological therapies for traumas. Referrals are prioritised based on clinical risk and need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025568%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435566"}},{"id":"435565","reference":"AQW 25567/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-03","answerBy":"2025-04-18","answered":"2025-04-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure all frontline health professionals receive training to recognise and respond appropriately to disclosures of sexual violence or abuse.","answerText":"My Department has implemented several initiatives to ensure that frontline health professionals are adequately trained to recognise and respond appropriately to disclosures of sexual violence or abuse.\n\nIn September 2024, my Department, in collaboration with the Department of Justice, launched the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031. One of the key priority areas under Pillar 2 (Prevention) of this comprehensive strategy is to build capacity among people working in frontline and public-facing roles to identify and respond effectively to domestic and/or sexual abuse.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts have training pathways which aim to ensure anyone who has contact with people who use Trust services will have an understanding of domestic and sexual abuse to support their engagement and intervention with victims, perpetrators and their children. Those staff working with people and families affected by this issue can avail of more specialist training to equip them to undertake their role.\n\nThe Permanent Secretary has recently written to the Chief Executives of our ALBs to encourage uptake of the Domestic Abuse Context and Change e-Learning training across Health and Social Care.\n\nMy Department is currently piloting the Identification and Referral to Improve Safety (IRIS) programme in Belfast and Newry and District GP Federation areas. IRIS is a specialist domestic and sexual abuse training, support and referral programme for primary care. The core elements include training and supporting general practice to identify and refer victims of domestic and sexual abuse to appropriate services. The IRIS pilot has been subject to an evaluation and the findings are being considered. Any future roll-out of IRIS will be subject to funding.\n\nThrough these initiatives, my Department aims to ensure that frontline health professionals are adequately trained to recognise and respond to disclosures of sexual violence or abuse, thereby providing victims with the necessary support and care.","answerHtml":"My Department has implemented several initiatives to ensure that frontline health professionals are adequately trained to recognise and respond appropriately to disclosures of sexual violence or abuse.
In September 2024, my Department, in collaboration with the Department of Justice, launched the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031. One of the key priority areas under Pillar 2 (Prevention) of this comprehensive strategy is to build capacity among people working in frontline and public-facing roles to identify and respond effectively to domestic and/or sexual abuse.
Health and Social Care Trusts have training pathways which aim to ensure anyone who has contact with people who use Trust services will have an understanding of domestic and sexual abuse to support their engagement and intervention with victims, perpetrators and their children. Those staff working with people and families affected by this issue can avail of more specialist training to equip them to undertake their role.
The Permanent Secretary has recently written to the Chief Executives of our ALBs to encourage uptake of the Domestic Abuse Context and Change e-Learning training across Health and Social Care.
My Department is currently piloting the Identification and Referral to Improve Safety (IRIS) programme in Belfast and Newry and District GP Federation areas. IRIS is a specialist domestic and sexual abuse training, support and referral programme for primary care. The core elements include training and supporting general practice to identify and refer victims of domestic and sexual abuse to appropriate services. The IRIS pilot has been subject to an evaluation and the findings are being considered. Any future roll-out of IRIS will be subject to funding.
Through these initiatives, my Department aims to ensure that frontline health professionals are adequately trained to recognise and respond to disclosures of sexual violence or abuse, thereby providing victims with the necessary support and care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025567%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435565"}},{"id":"435564","reference":"AQW 25566/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-03","answerBy":"2025-04-18","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether guidance has been issued to schools on how to deal with incidents of peer-on-peer sexual abuse, including online abuse.","answerText":"My department’s Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools – A Guide for Schools and its associated Circular 2022/02 - Children Who Display Harmful Sexual Behaviour have been issued to educational settings to provide advice as to how these matters should be addressed.","answerHtml":"My department’s Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools – A Guide for Schools and its associated Circular 2022/02 - Children Who Display Harmful Sexual Behaviour have been issued to educational settings to provide advice as to how these matters should be addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025566%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435564"}},{"id":"435646","reference":"AQO 1915/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-03","answerBy":"2025-04-29","answered":"2025-04-29","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, in light of the reported comments of the Deputy Chief Constable that the PSNI can only deliver the service it is funded to deliver, for her assessment of whether communities are safe with the current numbers of police officers.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201915%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435646","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-04-29&docID=436284#AQO%201915/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435646"}},{"id":"435185","reference":"AQW 25433/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the (i) target waiting times; and (ii) current average waiting times for breast screening services, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) advise that data on the waiting times for breast screening services is not collected.\n\nFor screening mammography, PHA measures the round length, which is the proportion of eligible women, whose date of first offered appointment is less than, or equal to 36 months, from their previous episode. The acceptable standard is greater than, or equal, to 90.0%.\n\nThe most recently available NI data for the round length, is from Quarter 3 of 2024/25:\n\nBreast screening unit\tQuarter 3 (2024/25) round length figures (%)\tAnnual figures (2023/24) for round length figures (%)\nBelfast (covers women resident in both Belfast and South Eastern Trusts)\t100\t99.1\nNorthern\t100\t93.5\nSouthern\t81*\t99.8\nWestern\t83*\t98.3\n\n*While PHA has provided quarterly figures as the latest figures available, official reporting is on an annual basis. The most recent annual report is for 2023/24.\n\nFor screening assessment following abnormal findings on a screening mammogram, the standard measured is the proportion of women referred for assessment whose date of first offered appointment at an assessment centre is less than or equal to 3 weeks (less than or equal to 21 calendar days) from attendance for the screening mammogram. The acceptable standard is greater than or equal to 95%.\n\nThe most recently available NI data for screening assessment is from Quarter 3 of 2024/25:\n\nBreast screening unit\t%\nBelfast (covers women resident in both Belfast and South Eastern Trusts)\t97\nNorthern\t100\nSouthern\t100\nWestern\t100","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) advise that data on the waiting times for breast screening services is not collected.
For screening mammography, PHA measures the round length, which is the proportion of eligible women, whose date of first offered appointment is less than, or equal to 36 months, from their previous episode. The acceptable standard is greater than, or equal, to 90.0%.
The most recently available NI data for the round length, is from Quarter 3 of 2024/25:
| Breast screening unit | Quarter 3 (2024/25) round length figures (%) | Annual figures (2023/24) for round length figures (%) |
| Belfast (covers women resident in both Belfast and South Eastern Trusts) | 100 | 99.1 |
| Northern | 100 | 93.5 |
| Southern | 81* | 99.8 |
| Western | 83* | 98.3 |
*While PHA has provided quarterly figures as the latest figures available, official reporting is on an annual basis. The most recent annual report is for 2023/24.
For screening assessment following abnormal findings on a screening mammogram, the standard measured is the proportion of women referred for assessment whose date of first offered appointment at an assessment centre is less than or equal to 3 weeks (less than or equal to 21 calendar days) from attendance for the screening mammogram. The acceptable standard is greater than or equal to 95%.
The most recently available NI data for screening assessment is from Quarter 3 of 2024/25:
| Breast screening unit | % |
| Belfast (covers women resident in both Belfast and South Eastern Trusts) | 97 |
| Northern | 100 |
| Southern | 100 |
| Western | 100 |
The implementation of single regional waiting lists is a key component of our strategy to streamline patient care and reduce waiting times across Northern Ireland. The implementation of the Encompass programme has provided the opportunity to develop single, regional waiting lists which will ensure patients are assessed in chronological order on a regional basis, rather than within their local Trust area. This will allow patients to be assessed in the next available clinic slot, which may be in any Trust, mitigating Trust specific service pressures that can impact waiting times.
The specific timeline for the full implementation of these single, regional waiting lists will be dependent on the rollout and embedding of Encompass across all Trusts. The concept of a single regional waiting list is a part of broader initiatives to improve the efficiency of our health service delivery.
There are examples of regional waiting lists already in place. For example, on 8 May 2025, a new single regional waiting list for breast assessment launched. This initiative aims to allow patients across Northern Ireland to access the earliest available appointment, regardless of their Trust area. The new regional booking system equalises waiting times across the region. Lessons learned from introducing the regional breast single waiting list will help inform the planning of any future initiatives.
Further, there are single waiting lists for specialist services including spinal surgery, vascular surgery, neurosurgery and paediatrics. Work has also progressed to establish single waiting lists in subspecialty areas including bladder outflow procedures, complex stone surgery and penile cancer in the urology specialty.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025432%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435184","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435184"}},{"id":"435183","reference":"AQW 25431/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to rebuild public confidence in health and social care services following long delays in treatment and diagnosis.","answerText":"It is understandable that public confidence in Health and Social Care services has been eroded due to the unacceptable waiting lists here, however, I am determined to rebuild that confidence.\n\nMy Department is striving to deliver improvements in elective care services here and the roadmap to do so is detailed in the Elective Care Framework, which focuses on a wide range of measures and initiatives needed to improve and reform elective care services and address those long delays in treatment and diagnosis.\n\nPositive achievements have already been made, through a number of initiatives, including; the development of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres and mega clinics.\n\nAs I outlined in my statement to the Assembly on 6 May 2025, following the Executive’s ringfencing of £215m in this year’s Health budget for waiting list activities, I plan to introduce a package of measures to reduce waiting list backlogs including; targeting long waiting patients, expansion of elective services in Primary Care, investment in Mega Clinics and a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme.\n\nReducing waiting lists will not be a quick fix and it will not be resolved in a year or two. Investment at this level will need to be sustained for up to five years to bring hospital waiting times down to acceptable levels.","answerHtml":"It is understandable that public confidence in Health and Social Care services has been eroded due to the unacceptable waiting lists here, however, I am determined to rebuild that confidence.
My Department is striving to deliver improvements in elective care services here and the roadmap to do so is detailed in the Elective Care Framework, which focuses on a wide range of measures and initiatives needed to improve and reform elective care services and address those long delays in treatment and diagnosis.
Positive achievements have already been made, through a number of initiatives, including; the development of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres and mega clinics.
As I outlined in my statement to the Assembly on 6 May 2025, following the Executive’s ringfencing of £215m in this year’s Health budget for waiting list activities, I plan to introduce a package of measures to reduce waiting list backlogs including; targeting long waiting patients, expansion of elective services in Primary Care, investment in Mega Clinics and a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme.
Reducing waiting lists will not be a quick fix and it will not be resolved in a year or two. Investment at this level will need to be sustained for up to five years to bring hospital waiting times down to acceptable levels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025431%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435183","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435183"}},{"id":"435182","reference":"AQW 25430/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department is supporting Health and Social Care Trusts to increase treatment capacity in high-demand specialities such as orthopaedics, dermatology and gynaecology.","answerText":"I am committed to addressing the challenges faced by Health and Social Care Trusts in managing high-demand specialties such as orthopaedics, dermatology, and gynaecology. My Department has implemented several strategies to increase treatment capacity and reduce waiting times in these critical areas.\n\nNon-Recurrent Funding for Waiting List Initiatives (WLI):\n\nAs outlined in my statement to the Assembly on 6 May 2025, £215m has been ringfenced for Health in this year’s budget to be invested across three areas for waiting list activities: to expand core capacity to reduce the red flag/time critical gap (£85m); increase core routine capacity (£80m); and, non-recurrent funding (£50m) to start tackling the backlog of patients waiting.\n\nThe package of measures which will be taken forward to tackle waiting lists include targeting long waiting patients, expansion of elective services in primary care, investment in mega clinics and a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme.\n\nThe package of measures which will be taken forward to tackle waiting lists include targeting long waiting patients, expansion of elective services in primary care, investment in mega clinics and a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme.\n\nInter-Trust Patient Transfers:\n\nTo facilitate the equalisation and reduction of waiting times, my department continues to support the inter-Trust transfer of patients. This approach allows patients to receive treatment more swiftly by utilising capacities available across Trusts, where possible, rather than patients being delayed waiting for procedures in hospitals of high demand.\n\nDepartment of Health Oversight:\n\nThe Department meets quarterly with Trust colleagues to review performance against specific targets and pathways, including those for high-demand specialties. This group plays a crucial role in maximising efficiencies within current service provision and ensuring that Trusts are adhering to performance optimisation plans.\n\nImplementation of GIRFT Recommendations:\n\nFollowing the \"Getting It Right First Time\" (GIRFT) reports, such as the one for gynaecology, my Department has established forums with representation from Trusts, the Public Health Agency (PHA), and General Practitioners (GPs). These forums oversee the implementation of recommendations aimed at improving service delivery and patient pathways in specialties like gynaecology and orthopaedic.\n\nSupport for Patient Self-Management:\n\nRecognising the importance of patient well-being while on waiting lists, the updated Elective Care Framework (ECF) outlines the need for policies that support patients in managing their conditions and overall health. This framework is particularly relevant as we develop strategies to manage waiting times in high-demand specialties.\n\nConsideration of where is the most appropriate place to manage patients\n\nMy Department is working with between primary and secondary care to consider what patients are best managed in which arena. This can be seen in dermatology where photo triage services in primary care, mean that patients are triaged and treated locally and are only transferred to secondary care when this is appropriate.\n\nThrough these measures, we are striving to enhance the capacity and efficiency of treatment in high-demand specialties, ensuring that patients receive the care they need in a timely manner. My department remains dedicated to continuous improvement and collaboration with all stakeholders to address these critical healthcare challenges.","answerHtml":"I am committed to addressing the challenges faced by Health and Social Care Trusts in managing high-demand specialties such as orthopaedics, dermatology, and gynaecology. My Department has implemented several strategies to increase treatment capacity and reduce waiting times in these critical areas.
Non-Recurrent Funding for Waiting List Initiatives (WLI):
As outlined in my statement to the Assembly on 6 May 2025, £215m has been ringfenced for Health in this year’s budget to be invested across three areas for waiting list activities: to expand core capacity to reduce the red flag/time critical gap (£85m); increase core routine capacity (£80m); and, non-recurrent funding (£50m) to start tackling the backlog of patients waiting.
The package of measures which will be taken forward to tackle waiting lists include targeting long waiting patients, expansion of elective services in primary care, investment in mega clinics and a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme.
The package of measures which will be taken forward to tackle waiting lists include targeting long waiting patients, expansion of elective services in primary care, investment in mega clinics and a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme.
Inter-Trust Patient Transfers:
To facilitate the equalisation and reduction of waiting times, my department continues to support the inter-Trust transfer of patients. This approach allows patients to receive treatment more swiftly by utilising capacities available across Trusts, where possible, rather than patients being delayed waiting for procedures in hospitals of high demand.
Department of Health Oversight:
The Department meets quarterly with Trust colleagues to review performance against specific targets and pathways, including those for high-demand specialties. This group plays a crucial role in maximising efficiencies within current service provision and ensuring that Trusts are adhering to performance optimisation plans.
Implementation of GIRFT Recommendations:
Following the "Getting It Right First Time" (GIRFT) reports, such as the one for gynaecology, my Department has established forums with representation from Trusts, the Public Health Agency (PHA), and General Practitioners (GPs). These forums oversee the implementation of recommendations aimed at improving service delivery and patient pathways in specialties like gynaecology and orthopaedic.
Support for Patient Self-Management:
Recognising the importance of patient well-being while on waiting lists, the updated Elective Care Framework (ECF) outlines the need for policies that support patients in managing their conditions and overall health. This framework is particularly relevant as we develop strategies to manage waiting times in high-demand specialties.
Consideration of where is the most appropriate place to manage patients
My Department is working with between primary and secondary care to consider what patients are best managed in which arena. This can be seen in dermatology where photo triage services in primary care, mean that patients are triaged and treated locally and are only transferred to secondary care when this is appropriate.
Through these measures, we are striving to enhance the capacity and efficiency of treatment in high-demand specialties, ensuring that patients receive the care they need in a timely manner. My department remains dedicated to continuous improvement and collaboration with all stakeholders to address these critical healthcare challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025430%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435182","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435182"}},{"id":"435181","reference":"AQW 25429/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-04-01","answerBy":"2025-04-16","answered":"2025-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 24166/22-27, to detail (i) the impact that the regional day procedure centres and single waiting lists have had on reducing waiting times across Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) how his Department is monitoring the experience of patients who may need to travel further for treatment.","answerText":"The regional day procedure centres deliver capacity across a number of high-volume specialties, with this capacity accessed by patients from all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. Whilst the ongoing implementation of the Epic system makes it difficult to directly compare to pre-Epic data for those Trusts now live on the system, comparisons can be made for the Southern and Western Trusts. Official statistics show general daycase waiting list reductions within those Trusts as at 31 December 2024, compared with 31 December 2021. This includes a 35% reduction in General Surgery, and a 6% reduction in Urology. Both of these specialties have access to regional day procedure centre capacity.\n\nMonitoring of patient experience is common practice within HSC Trusts. As an example of how this is conducted at the regional day procedure centres, Lagan Valley Hospital use the Care Opinion platform to collate feedback from patients. The majority of patients who are treated at Lagan Valley come from other Trust areas, and have travelled to access treatment. This feedback is analysed and shared with staff. The feedback received is generally positive, with patients indicating they are happy to travel, particularly when it results in receiving treatment faster than may otherwise be the case.","answerHtml":"The regional day procedure centres deliver capacity across a number of high-volume specialties, with this capacity accessed by patients from all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. Whilst the ongoing implementation of the Epic system makes it difficult to directly compare to pre-Epic data for those Trusts now live on the system, comparisons can be made for the Southern and Western Trusts. Official statistics show general daycase waiting list reductions within those Trusts as at 31 December 2024, compared with 31 December 2021. This includes a 35% reduction in General Surgery, and a 6% reduction in Urology. Both of these specialties have access to regional day procedure centre capacity.
Monitoring of patient experience is common practice within HSC Trusts. As an example of how this is conducted at the regional day procedure centres, Lagan Valley Hospital use the Care Opinion platform to collate feedback from patients. The majority of patients who are treated at Lagan Valley come from other Trust areas, and have travelled to access treatment. This feedback is analysed and shared with staff. The feedback received is generally positive, with patients indicating they are happy to travel, particularly when it results in receiving treatment faster than may otherwise be the case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025429%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435181","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435181"}},{"id":"434506","reference":"AQW 25182/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-27","answerBy":"2025-04-11","answered":"2025-04-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any engagement she has had with the Minister for Communities, since taking office, in relation to the lack of financial support for postgraduate students in Northern Ireland, particularly those who are ineligible for Universal Credit due to full-time study and are also unable to access maintenance loans.","answerText":"My officials engage with their counterparts across other departments on a regular basis. This includes discussions on a number of topics, including how the benefits and skills systems interact. Plans are currently being developed for a proposed review of higher education funding, including financial support to students. Officials are due to brief me in coming weeks regarding the review. I am always happy to engage with other executive Ministers.","answerHtml":"My officials engage with their counterparts across other departments on a regular basis. This includes discussions on a number of topics, including how the benefits and skills systems interact. Plans are currently being developed for a proposed review of higher education funding, including financial support to students. Officials are due to brief me in coming weeks regarding the review. I am always happy to engage with other executive Ministers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025182%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434506"}},{"id":"434505","reference":"AQW 25181/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-27","answerBy":"2025-04-11","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any engagement his Department has had with (i) universities; (ii) further education colleges; and (iii) student unions to understand the impact of Universal Credit on mature students.","answerText":"My officials engage with the universities through the Universal Credit front line adviser’s forum which meet on a quarterly basis to provide the advice sector and the Universities with an opportunity to raise any student related concerns or issues they are experiencing.\n\nUniversal Credit also has an escalation route in place providing contact details that is regularly updated and shared with the Advice Sector, Law Centre and other organisations who form part of the Department’s Trusted Partner Forum.\n\nRegional Managers engage on a monthly basis with colleges as part of the local council labour market partnerships and will readily provide information and answer any queries relating to concerns from all students, this includes mature students.","answerHtml":"My officials engage with the universities through the Universal Credit front line adviser’s forum which meet on a quarterly basis to provide the advice sector and the Universities with an opportunity to raise any student related concerns or issues they are experiencing.
Universal Credit also has an escalation route in place providing contact details that is regularly updated and shared with the Advice Sector, Law Centre and other organisations who form part of the Department’s Trusted Partner Forum.
Regional Managers engage on a monthly basis with colleges as part of the local council labour market partnerships and will readily provide information and answer any queries relating to concerns from all students, this includes mature students.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025181%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434505"}},{"id":"434504","reference":"AQW 25180/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-27","answerBy":"2025-04-11","answered":"2025-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any financial support available for mature students with children who do not qualify for a student loan; and (ii) whether she will consider expanding access to targeted hardship funds.","answerText":"Mature students who are undertaking an eligible full-time undergraduate course but find themselves ineligible for student loan support may still be able to apply for targeted support such as the childcare grant, parents’ learning allowance or adult dependants’ grant. Disabled Students’ Allowance may also be available to mature students regardless of whether they are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate full-time or part-time course.In relation to the funding the Department provides to institutions to support students facing financial hardship, maximum support of up to £3,500 is currently available for eligible full-time or part-time undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Department sets out the terms and conditions for this funding and from academic year 2022/23 removed priority groups from the terms and conditions, the intention being to allow the institutions greater flexibility when awarding this support.","answerHtml":"Mature students who are undertaking an eligible full-time undergraduate course but find themselves ineligible for student loan support may still be able to apply for targeted support such as the childcare grant, parents’ learning allowance or adult dependants’ grant. Disabled Students’ Allowance may also be available to mature students regardless of whether they are studying an undergraduate or postgraduate full-time or part-time course.In relation to the funding the Department provides to institutions to support students facing financial hardship, maximum support of up to £3,500 is currently available for eligible full-time or part-time undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Department sets out the terms and conditions for this funding and from academic year 2022/23 removed priority groups from the terms and conditions, the intention being to allow the institutions greater flexibility when awarding this support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025180%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434504"}},{"id":"434503","reference":"AQW 25179/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-27","answerBy":"2025-04-11","answered":"2025-04-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any support in place through Universal Credit to encourage mature students with caring responsibilities to pursue higher education and, ultimately, move into employment.","answerText":"Universal Credit staff are trained to provide tailored support to all claimants including mature students with caring responsibilities. They will answer their queries, give them information about additional training and/or education to support them into the workplace, and will signpost them to seek advice from Advice NI. Alongside this they will tell them about the additional financial support available for the Department’s Adviser Discretion Fund. This is a non-repaybale grant to help claimant’s complete additional training to support them into employment/self-employment for such things as clothing, work equipment, childcare costs and training costs if they are eligible for support.","answerHtml":"Universal Credit staff are trained to provide tailored support to all claimants including mature students with caring responsibilities. They will answer their queries, give them information about additional training and/or education to support them into the workplace, and will signpost them to seek advice from Advice NI. Alongside this they will tell them about the additional financial support available for the Department’s Adviser Discretion Fund. This is a non-repaybale grant to help claimant’s complete additional training to support them into employment/self-employment for such things as clothing, work equipment, childcare costs and training costs if they are eligible for support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025179%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434503"}},{"id":"434502","reference":"AQW 25178/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-27","answerBy":"2025-04-11","answered":"2025-04-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any assessment that has been made of the impact of ongoing work coach requirements on full-time university students with caring responsibilities; and (ii) whether his Department has considered introducing greater flexibility within Universal Credit to support these individuals.","answerText":"Universal Credit work coaches are trained to provide a supportive, tailored service to all claimants. Full time students who are eligible to claim Universal Credit should discuss their caring responsibilities with their work coach who will develop and agree a claimant commitment with them that is both flexible and reflective of the demands of their caring responsibilities.","answerHtml":"Universal Credit work coaches are trained to provide a supportive, tailored service to all claimants. Full time students who are eligible to claim Universal Credit should discuss their caring responsibilities with their work coach who will develop and agree a claimant commitment with them that is both flexible and reflective of the demands of their caring responsibilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025178%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434502"}},{"id":"436034","reference":"AQO 1877/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-27","answerBy":"2025-04-08","answered":"2025-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the delayed review of general surgery at Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"Over the past months, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust has continued to develop plans for the reconfiguration of general surgical services across its hospital sites and has been developing and appraising options for a more compliant, sustainable surgical configuration in the context of the Department’s Review of General Surgery.\n\nThe public consultation on the Trust Review of General Surgery Service has now concluded, and it was the intention of the Northern Trust to bring the outcome and a proposed way forward to their Trust Board later this month.\n\nThe Trust has been liaising closely with colleagues in the Department of Health throughout and following the consultation process to look at the impact of any proposed service change on staff, patients and the wider community.\n\nIt is important that all views and responses have been considered and implications across the service included before the final recommendation of this review is completed.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust is finalising the work on the wider implications of any proposed service change and anticipated impacts to ensure all feedback and implications have been considered.\n\nNorthern Trust anticipates that the consultation outcome and associated proposals will be brought to the Trust Board in May for agreement. Following this, the Trust will bring forward its proposals to the Department for consideration and a recommendation on any proposed service change will be brought forward for decision.\n\nThe final decision on any permanent change to general surgery services rests with me as Minister of Health.","answerHtml":"Over the past months, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust has continued to develop plans for the reconfiguration of general surgical services across its hospital sites and has been developing and appraising options for a more compliant, sustainable surgical configuration in the context of the Department’s Review of General Surgery.
The public consultation on the Trust Review of General Surgery Service has now concluded, and it was the intention of the Northern Trust to bring the outcome and a proposed way forward to their Trust Board later this month.
The Trust has been liaising closely with colleagues in the Department of Health throughout and following the consultation process to look at the impact of any proposed service change on staff, patients and the wider community.
It is important that all views and responses have been considered and implications across the service included before the final recommendation of this review is completed.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust is finalising the work on the wider implications of any proposed service change and anticipated impacts to ensure all feedback and implications have been considered.
Northern Trust anticipates that the consultation outcome and associated proposals will be brought to the Trust Board in May for agreement. Following this, the Trust will bring forward its proposals to the Department for consideration and a recommendation on any proposed service change will be brought forward for decision.
The final decision on any permanent change to general surgery services rests with me as Minister of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=436034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=436034"}},{"id":"434315","reference":"AQW 25092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-26","answerBy":"2025-04-10","answered":"2025-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans to expand access to practical cooking and nutrition education in post-primary schools.","answerText":"I have commissioned a strategic review of the curriculum, currently being carried out by Lucy Crehan, which will focus on the purpose, design, specification and implementation of the Curriculum and how we can learn from high performing education systems to bring about necessary reform. Ms Crehan is due to provide her report to my Department in May 2025, at which point I will consider the recommendations.","answerHtml":"I have commissioned a strategic review of the curriculum, currently being carried out by Lucy Crehan, which will focus on the purpose, design, specification and implementation of the Curriculum and how we can learn from high performing education systems to bring about necessary reform. Ms Crehan is due to provide her report to my Department in May 2025, at which point I will consider the recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434315"}},{"id":"434314","reference":"AQW 25091/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-26","answerBy":"2025-04-10","answered":"2026-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any actions being taken to (i) reduce obesity; and (ii) improve dietary health among young people, particularly in relation to regular consumption of fast food.","answerText":"The new Healthy Futures strategic framework has been developed to enhance obesity prevention efforts, informed by research and stakeholder consultations. This framework emphasises a whole system approach, targeting specific groups and addressing health inequalities. It aims to prevent and manage obesity through education, treatment services, and a person-centred approach.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) works across departments and agencies to improve young people's understanding of nutrition and healthy cooking through nutrition training and education programmes such as ‘Nutrition matters for the early years.’ A range of community-based nutrition education programmes, such as ‘Cook It!’, ‘Food Values’ and ‘Food and Health Essentials’ are commissioned to increase knowledge and understanding of healthy eating and develop cooking skills, building both confidence and competence.\n\nThe PHA also commissions an Early Years Obesity Prevention Programme which provides obesity prevention training to Health and Social Care Trusts and SureStart staff across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department of Education chairs a cross-departmental ‘Food in Schools’ forum which provides strategic leadership and guidance on the joint Northern Ireland Food in Schools policy, nutritional standards for school meals and supports the inclusion of nutrition in the school curriculum. Officials from my Department, PHA, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the FSA, alongside other stakeholders, work together as members of this Forum. My Department, through the PHA, and the Department of Education jointly fund a Food In Schools coordinator to carry out a programme of work to support schools to create a healthy food environment. The PHA works closely with DE through the Food in Schools Forum to implement the ‘Health Food for Healthy Outcomes’ policy.\n\nThe Active School Travel Programme is jointly funded by PHA and DfI and has delivered an increase on the number of children completing physical activity for at least 60 minutes each day from 25% at baseline (Autumn/Winter 2023) to 35% after one academic year of engagement (2024/2025).","answerHtml":"The new Healthy Futures strategic framework has been developed to enhance obesity prevention efforts, informed by research and stakeholder consultations. This framework emphasises a whole system approach, targeting specific groups and addressing health inequalities. It aims to prevent and manage obesity through education, treatment services, and a person-centred approach.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) works across departments and agencies to improve young people's understanding of nutrition and healthy cooking through nutrition training and education programmes such as ‘Nutrition matters for the early years.’ A range of community-based nutrition education programmes, such as ‘Cook It!’, ‘Food Values’ and ‘Food and Health Essentials’ are commissioned to increase knowledge and understanding of healthy eating and develop cooking skills, building both confidence and competence.
The PHA also commissions an Early Years Obesity Prevention Programme which provides obesity prevention training to Health and Social Care Trusts and SureStart staff across Northern Ireland.
The Department of Education chairs a cross-departmental ‘Food in Schools’ forum which provides strategic leadership and guidance on the joint Northern Ireland Food in Schools policy, nutritional standards for school meals and supports the inclusion of nutrition in the school curriculum. Officials from my Department, PHA, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the FSA, alongside other stakeholders, work together as members of this Forum. My Department, through the PHA, and the Department of Education jointly fund a Food In Schools coordinator to carry out a programme of work to support schools to create a healthy food environment. The PHA works closely with DE through the Food in Schools Forum to implement the ‘Health Food for Healthy Outcomes’ policy.
The Active School Travel Programme is jointly funded by PHA and DfI and has delivered an increase on the number of children completing physical activity for at least 60 minutes each day from 25% at baseline (Autumn/Winter 2023) to 35% after one academic year of engagement (2024/2025).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025091%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434314"}},{"id":"434313","reference":"AQW 25090/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-26","answerBy":"2025-04-10","answered":"2025-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department will consider funding community-led healthy eating initiatives, including free basic cookery classes, as part of preventative health strategies.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency currently commissions and funds a number of community-led healthy eating initiatives which include ‘Nutrition matters for the early years,’ ‘Cook It!,’ ‘Food Values,’ and ‘Food and Health Essentials.’ These programmes are contracted to increase knowledge and understanding of healthy eating and develop cooking skills, building both confidence and competence.\n\nSafefood funds the Community Food Initiative across the island of Ireland. Since 2010, over 50,000 people have taken part in Community Food Initiative activities gaining practical tips in food and healthy eating, healthier shopping, and cooking skills for healthy eating. They support local initiatives with a range of online, video and print resources to encourage people to develop healthy eating skills and knowledge. The 2025-2028 programme is funding 28 community initiatives.\n\nThe Food Standards Agency (FSA) has a Making Food Better programme which supports food businesses to make the food environment healthier by reducing calories, saturated fat, sugar, and salt in the food they produce sell or serve, reduce portion size, provide nutritional information, and deliver responsible promotions.\n\nThe FSA also collaborates with partners to implement nutritional standards in Health and Social Care, public sector, and local council settings to ensure healthier options are available for staff and visitors.\n\nThe FSA provides guidance for a range of food businesses, including fast food outlets, on providing and promoting healthier food and drink. The FSA recently commissioned research to investigate the availability of fast-food outlets and grocery retailers in Northern Ireland, and their proximity to secondary schools which will help to inform the FSA’s work on the food environment.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency currently commissions and funds a number of community-led healthy eating initiatives which include ‘Nutrition matters for the early years,’ ‘Cook It!,’ ‘Food Values,’ and ‘Food and Health Essentials.’ These programmes are contracted to increase knowledge and understanding of healthy eating and develop cooking skills, building both confidence and competence.
Safefood funds the Community Food Initiative across the island of Ireland. Since 2010, over 50,000 people have taken part in Community Food Initiative activities gaining practical tips in food and healthy eating, healthier shopping, and cooking skills for healthy eating. They support local initiatives with a range of online, video and print resources to encourage people to develop healthy eating skills and knowledge. The 2025-2028 programme is funding 28 community initiatives.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has a Making Food Better programme which supports food businesses to make the food environment healthier by reducing calories, saturated fat, sugar, and salt in the food they produce sell or serve, reduce portion size, provide nutritional information, and deliver responsible promotions.
The FSA also collaborates with partners to implement nutritional standards in Health and Social Care, public sector, and local council settings to ensure healthier options are available for staff and visitors.
The FSA provides guidance for a range of food businesses, including fast food outlets, on providing and promoting healthier food and drink. The FSA recently commissioned research to investigate the availability of fast-food outlets and grocery retailers in Northern Ireland, and their proximity to secondary schools which will help to inform the FSA’s work on the food environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025090%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434313"}},{"id":"434312","reference":"AQW 25089/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-26","answerBy":"2025-04-10","answered":"2025-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the long-term public health costs associated with poor nutrition in young people due to over-consumption of fast food.","answerText":"A 2024 report from the World Health Organization, based on data from 44 European countries, revealed a concerning picture of dietary habits, with a particular focus on the decline in healthy eating behaviours and the rise of unhealthy choices. Fewer than 2 in 5 young people (38%) eat fruit or vegetables daily, and these figures decline with age (from 45% of 11-year-olds to 33% of 15-year-olds for fruit, and from 40% to 36% for vegetables). More than half of young people reported eating neither fruit nor vegetables every day (56% of boys and 51% of girls aged 15).\n\nThe report also reveals a concerning link between socioeconomic status and unhealthy dietary habits, with adolescents from lower-income families more likely to consume sugary drinks (18% versus 15%) and less likely to eat fruits (32% versus 46%) and vegetables (32% versus 54%) daily.\n\nFor Northern Ireland, the NISRA Young Persons’ Behaviours and Attitude Survey 2022-23 found that over three fifths of young people (63%) thought they should be eating 5 or more portions of fruit and vegetables each day to be healthy. However, only 16% recorded that they usually eat 5 or more portions of fruit or vegetables each day.\n\nThe Public Health Agency is currently working on a whole systems approach to obesity prevention in Northern Ireland as obesity is a complex chronic condition which is cause by multiple factors such as, the environments we live and work in along with psychosocial and genetic variants. There is an acknowledgement that inequalities and poor nutrition in young people contribute to overall inequalities in health and vice versa.\n\nThe annual cost of obesity to society in Northern Ireland is estimated at £500m annually.","answerHtml":"A 2024 report from the World Health Organization, based on data from 44 European countries, revealed a concerning picture of dietary habits, with a particular focus on the decline in healthy eating behaviours and the rise of unhealthy choices. Fewer than 2 in 5 young people (38%) eat fruit or vegetables daily, and these figures decline with age (from 45% of 11-year-olds to 33% of 15-year-olds for fruit, and from 40% to 36% for vegetables). More than half of young people reported eating neither fruit nor vegetables every day (56% of boys and 51% of girls aged 15).
The report also reveals a concerning link between socioeconomic status and unhealthy dietary habits, with adolescents from lower-income families more likely to consume sugary drinks (18% versus 15%) and less likely to eat fruits (32% versus 46%) and vegetables (32% versus 54%) daily.
For Northern Ireland, the NISRA Young Persons’ Behaviours and Attitude Survey 2022-23 found that over three fifths of young people (63%) thought they should be eating 5 or more portions of fruit and vegetables each day to be healthy. However, only 16% recorded that they usually eat 5 or more portions of fruit or vegetables each day.
The Public Health Agency is currently working on a whole systems approach to obesity prevention in Northern Ireland as obesity is a complex chronic condition which is cause by multiple factors such as, the environments we live and work in along with psychosocial and genetic variants. There is an acknowledgement that inequalities and poor nutrition in young people contribute to overall inequalities in health and vice versa.
The annual cost of obesity to society in Northern Ireland is estimated at £500m annually.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025089%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434312"}},{"id":"434311","reference":"AQW 25088/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-26","answerBy":"2025-04-10","answered":"2025-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any cross-departmental work being carried out to improve young people's understanding of nutrition and healthy cooking.","answerText":"My Department and the Public Health Agency (PHA) work across departments and agencies to improve young people's understanding of nutrition and healthy cooking through nutrition training and education programmes such as ‘Nutrition matters for the early years.’ A range of community-based nutrition education programmes, such as ‘Cook It!’, ‘Food Values’ and ‘Food and Health Essentials’ are commissioned to increase knowledge and understanding of healthy eating and develop cooking skills, building both confidence and competence.\n\nMy department also works closely with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) which has responsibility for the development, implementation and evaluation of dietary health policy in Northern Ireland. As part of this, the FSA works with other government departments across the UK to promote dietary guidelines through the Eatwell Guide. The Eatwell Guide is included in the school curriculum in Northern Ireland and helps children learn how to achieve a healthy balanced diet. The FSA supports this learning through the provision of free resources for schools and community groups.\n\nThe Department of Education chairs a cross-departmental ‘Food in Schools’ forum which provides strategic leadership and guidance on the joint Northern Ireland Food in Schools policy, nutritional standards for school meals and supports the inclusion of nutrition in the school curriculum. Officials from my Department, PHA, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the FSA, alongside other stakeholders, work together as members of this Forum. My Department, through the PHA, and the Department of Education jointly fund a Food In Schools coordinator to carry out a programme of work to support schools to create a healthy food environment. The PHA works closely with DE through the Food in Schools Forum to implement the ‘Health Food for Healthy Outcomes’ policy.","answerHtml":"My Department and the Public Health Agency (PHA) work across departments and agencies to improve young people's understanding of nutrition and healthy cooking through nutrition training and education programmes such as ‘Nutrition matters for the early years.’ A range of community-based nutrition education programmes, such as ‘Cook It!’, ‘Food Values’ and ‘Food and Health Essentials’ are commissioned to increase knowledge and understanding of healthy eating and develop cooking skills, building both confidence and competence.
My department also works closely with the Food Standards Agency (FSA) which has responsibility for the development, implementation and evaluation of dietary health policy in Northern Ireland. As part of this, the FSA works with other government departments across the UK to promote dietary guidelines through the Eatwell Guide. The Eatwell Guide is included in the school curriculum in Northern Ireland and helps children learn how to achieve a healthy balanced diet. The FSA supports this learning through the provision of free resources for schools and community groups.
The Department of Education chairs a cross-departmental ‘Food in Schools’ forum which provides strategic leadership and guidance on the joint Northern Ireland Food in Schools policy, nutritional standards for school meals and supports the inclusion of nutrition in the school curriculum. Officials from my Department, PHA, the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, and the FSA, alongside other stakeholders, work together as members of this Forum. My Department, through the PHA, and the Department of Education jointly fund a Food In Schools coordinator to carry out a programme of work to support schools to create a healthy food environment. The PHA works closely with DE through the Food in Schools Forum to implement the ‘Health Food for Healthy Outcomes’ policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025088%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434311"}},{"id":"434082","reference":"AQW 24982/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-25","answerBy":"2025-04-09","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for a breakdown of the cost savings to the health service from the NIPEARS Plus pilot, which utilised independent prescribing optometrists to manage acute eye conditions in the community.","answerText":"A novel NI PEARS (Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service) Plus service, which aimed to build on the successful regional core NI PEARS service, was piloted within the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust (BHSCT) catchment area, from April-December 2023, with a brief extension into 2024 to support Trust with roll-out of encompass.\n\nThe service aims included making optimum use of clinically-skilled primary care optometrists, facilitation of appropriate access to eye care for patients with specific conditions rapidly and close to home, and to reduce the number of patients requiring specialist secondary care ophthalmology services.\n\nA total of 841 patients accessed the service during the pilot, generating 1,331 optometry primary care appointments, including follow-up. BHSCT triaged out 628 of the patients, representing 10.6% of 5,914 referrals into BHSCT Eye Casualty during the pilot period (the remainder being primary care intra-professional referrals).\n\nThose patients managed to completion in primary care released 650 appointments in in Eye Casualty, excluding follow up appointments, in the 32-week period of the pilot. This would equate to the release of approx. 1000 appointments annually in Belfast HSC Trust (RVH) Eye Casualty and approx. 330 appointments in the Western HSC Trust (Altnagelvin) Eye Casualty annually.\n\nThe pilot cost a total of £85,600 in clinical fees (£90 for first appointment, £20 per follow-up) to community optometry providers. This sum does not, however, reflect administration, validation, and evaluation costs for the pilot, which were absorbed at Trust and SPPG level prior to, throughout, and after the pilot.\n\nThe current absence of tariff makes cost-saving analysis challenging, although ongoing work around Patient Level Information and Costing System (PLICs) should help to make future comparative benchmarks realistic.\n\nPreliminary PLICs data demonstrates a total of 13,638 attendances at Eye Casualty in the period 2022/23 with a maximum 94 patients per day and an average of 40.","answerHtml":"A novel NI PEARS (Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service) Plus service, which aimed to build on the successful regional core NI PEARS service, was piloted within the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust (BHSCT) catchment area, from April-December 2023, with a brief extension into 2024 to support Trust with roll-out of encompass.
The service aims included making optimum use of clinically-skilled primary care optometrists, facilitation of appropriate access to eye care for patients with specific conditions rapidly and close to home, and to reduce the number of patients requiring specialist secondary care ophthalmology services.
A total of 841 patients accessed the service during the pilot, generating 1,331 optometry primary care appointments, including follow-up. BHSCT triaged out 628 of the patients, representing 10.6% of 5,914 referrals into BHSCT Eye Casualty during the pilot period (the remainder being primary care intra-professional referrals).
Those patients managed to completion in primary care released 650 appointments in in Eye Casualty, excluding follow up appointments, in the 32-week period of the pilot. This would equate to the release of approx. 1000 appointments annually in Belfast HSC Trust (RVH) Eye Casualty and approx. 330 appointments in the Western HSC Trust (Altnagelvin) Eye Casualty annually.
The pilot cost a total of £85,600 in clinical fees (£90 for first appointment, £20 per follow-up) to community optometry providers. This sum does not, however, reflect administration, validation, and evaluation costs for the pilot, which were absorbed at Trust and SPPG level prior to, throughout, and after the pilot.
The current absence of tariff makes cost-saving analysis challenging, although ongoing work around Patient Level Information and Costing System (PLICs) should help to make future comparative benchmarks realistic.
Preliminary PLICs data demonstrates a total of 13,638 attendances at Eye Casualty in the period 2022/23 with a maximum 94 patients per day and an average of 40.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024982%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434082"}},{"id":"434081","reference":"AQW 24981/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-25","answerBy":"2025-04-09","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on efforts to align Northern Ireland with the rest of the UK in ensuring that people on Universal Credit can access their entitlement to NHS eyecare.","answerText":"Work on the proposed changes to the legislation is a key priority for my Department and I am committed to ensuring that this work is completed without undue delay.\n\nThis is a complex area, as it is not the case that in GB all Universal Credit (UC) recipients are automatically eligible for help with health costs.\n\nThe public consultation on the proposed eligibility criteria for passporting UC recipients closed on 10 March 2025. I welcome the openness, feedback and engagement from all who have participated in the consultation.\n\nOfficials are currently analysing the responses and compiling a Consultation Summary Report which will be published on the Departmental website in the coming weeks. It is intended that the legislative process will be completed by summer.\n\nMy aim is to ensure that those most in need automatically receive help to access these very important health services.\n\nWhilst the legislative process is ongoing, an interim measure remains in place for UC recipients who need financial assistance with their health costs. This is via the Health Service Low Income Scheme (LIS). This scheme was already established before UC, and is to help those who had a low income but were not a recipient of eligible benefit for Help with Health Costs. It is a paper-based scheme, processed by DfC, where UC claimants are required to apply annually to gain a potential exemption or remission from their health costs.","answerHtml":"Work on the proposed changes to the legislation is a key priority for my Department and I am committed to ensuring that this work is completed without undue delay.
This is a complex area, as it is not the case that in GB all Universal Credit (UC) recipients are automatically eligible for help with health costs.
The public consultation on the proposed eligibility criteria for passporting UC recipients closed on 10 March 2025. I welcome the openness, feedback and engagement from all who have participated in the consultation.
Officials are currently analysing the responses and compiling a Consultation Summary Report which will be published on the Departmental website in the coming weeks. It is intended that the legislative process will be completed by summer.
My aim is to ensure that those most in need automatically receive help to access these very important health services.
Whilst the legislative process is ongoing, an interim measure remains in place for UC recipients who need financial assistance with their health costs. This is via the Health Service Low Income Scheme (LIS). This scheme was already established before UC, and is to help those who had a low income but were not a recipient of eligible benefit for Help with Health Costs. It is a paper-based scheme, processed by DfC, where UC claimants are required to apply annually to gain a potential exemption or remission from their health costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024981%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434081"}},{"id":"434080","reference":"AQW 24980/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-25","answerBy":"2025-04-09","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to increase the number of optometrists with independent prescribing qualifications, given the success of the NIPEARS Plus pilot in treating 90 per cent of patients without the need for referral back to Eye Casualty.","answerText":"The small but growing number of primary, and indeed secondary, care optometrists with independent prescribing (IP) qualifications has undoubtedly helped to build capacity across the wider ophthalmic workforce.\n\nOptometrists with an independent prescribing (IP) qualification are able to clinically assess a patient, establish a diagnosis, determine the clinical management required and prescribe where necessary, freeing capacity in both general practice and ED/Eye Casualty.\n\nIn recognition of this, my Department has made recurrent funding available to facilitate the necessary clinical placements (22 sessions per trainee) for up to twelve IPs in-training annually, with these placements currently taking place under supervision of consultant ophthalmologists across Belfast and Western Health and Social Care Trust ophthalmology services.\n\nThis funded arrangement has been in place since 2016 and there are currently 52 community optometry IPs listed with SPPG across the region.\n\nThe limiting factors in increasing the number of optometrists with independent prescribing qualifications centre on the number of trainees that universities with approved qualifications can enrol, and the physical and clinical capacity which Trust ophthalmology departments have to facilitate trainee placements.\n\nWith respect to availability of suitably-qualified supervisors for clinical placements, it is anticipated that this might be improved by recent changes to Rules for this requirement by the General Optical Council. Trainees upon or shortly after admission to an approved qualification must have identified a suitably experienced and qualified designated prescribing practitioner (DPP) who has agreed to supervise their 90 hours of learning and experience in practice. This is a shift from the current requirement of a designated medical practitioner (DMP), in line with other regulators.","answerHtml":"The small but growing number of primary, and indeed secondary, care optometrists with independent prescribing (IP) qualifications has undoubtedly helped to build capacity across the wider ophthalmic workforce.
Optometrists with an independent prescribing (IP) qualification are able to clinically assess a patient, establish a diagnosis, determine the clinical management required and prescribe where necessary, freeing capacity in both general practice and ED/Eye Casualty.
In recognition of this, my Department has made recurrent funding available to facilitate the necessary clinical placements (22 sessions per trainee) for up to twelve IPs in-training annually, with these placements currently taking place under supervision of consultant ophthalmologists across Belfast and Western Health and Social Care Trust ophthalmology services.
This funded arrangement has been in place since 2016 and there are currently 52 community optometry IPs listed with SPPG across the region.
The limiting factors in increasing the number of optometrists with independent prescribing qualifications centre on the number of trainees that universities with approved qualifications can enrol, and the physical and clinical capacity which Trust ophthalmology departments have to facilitate trainee placements.
With respect to availability of suitably-qualified supervisors for clinical placements, it is anticipated that this might be improved by recent changes to Rules for this requirement by the General Optical Council. Trainees upon or shortly after admission to an approved qualification must have identified a suitably experienced and qualified designated prescribing practitioner (DPP) who has agreed to supervise their 90 hours of learning and experience in practice. This is a shift from the current requirement of a designated medical practitioner (DMP), in line with other regulators.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024980%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434080"}},{"id":"434079","reference":"AQW 24979/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-25","answerBy":"2025-04-09","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has considered rolling out the NIPEARS Plus pilot regionally, following its successful implementation in the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"A novel NI PEARS (Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service) Plus service, which aimed to build on the successful regional core NI PEARS service, was piloted within the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust (BHSCT) catchment area, from April-December 2023, with a brief extension into 2024 to support Trust with roll-out of encompass.\n\nThe service aims included making optimum use of clinically-skilled primary care optometrists, facilitation of appropriate access to eye care for patients with specific conditions rapidly and close to home, and to reduce the number of patients requiring specialist secondary care ophthalmology services.\n\nA total of 841 patients accessed the service during the pilot, generating 1,331 optometry primary care appointments, including follow-up. BHSCT triaged out 628 of the patients, representing 10.6% of 5,914 referrals into BHSCT Eye Casualty during the pilot period (the remainder being primary care intra-professional referrals).\n\nPilot evaluation shows access, patient experience and clinical outcomes to be strong, with the capacity-releasing aim achieved and clinical safety non-inferior.\n\nAny regional roll-out will need to address recommendations outlined in the pilot evaluation, including requirements for improved booking and administration systems and protocols, establishment of a primary care optometry needlestick injury policy, contractual agreement over fees and value for money, and training and support for the primary care optometry providers.","answerHtml":"A novel NI PEARS (Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service) Plus service, which aimed to build on the successful regional core NI PEARS service, was piloted within the Belfast Health & Social Care Trust (BHSCT) catchment area, from April-December 2023, with a brief extension into 2024 to support Trust with roll-out of encompass.
The service aims included making optimum use of clinically-skilled primary care optometrists, facilitation of appropriate access to eye care for patients with specific conditions rapidly and close to home, and to reduce the number of patients requiring specialist secondary care ophthalmology services.
A total of 841 patients accessed the service during the pilot, generating 1,331 optometry primary care appointments, including follow-up. BHSCT triaged out 628 of the patients, representing 10.6% of 5,914 referrals into BHSCT Eye Casualty during the pilot period (the remainder being primary care intra-professional referrals).
Pilot evaluation shows access, patient experience and clinical outcomes to be strong, with the capacity-releasing aim achieved and clinical safety non-inferior.
Any regional roll-out will need to address recommendations outlined in the pilot evaluation, including requirements for improved booking and administration systems and protocols, establishment of a primary care optometry needlestick injury policy, contractual agreement over fees and value for money, and training and support for the primary care optometry providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024979%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434079","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434079"}},{"id":"434078","reference":"AQW 24978/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-25","answerBy":"2025-04-09","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any action being taken to address the occupational health risks for community optometrists identified during the NIPEARS Plus pilot, including the absence of cover for needlestick injuries.","answerText":"The occupational health risk to optometrists identified during the NIPEARS Plus pilot were in relation to the potential for needle stick injuries during a removal of foreign bodies, which in many cases require the use of a small needle.\n\nTo date there have been a number of barriers for Trust Occupational Health services including optometrists in their needle stick injury service. These include; capacity, the absence of a Service Level Agreement and the absence of the necessary governance arrangements.\n\nA Regional Review of Occupational Health recommended a review of the Service Level Agreement to Primary Care. This review is underway and will include consideration of future provision of the service to optometrists.","answerHtml":"The occupational health risk to optometrists identified during the NIPEARS Plus pilot were in relation to the potential for needle stick injuries during a removal of foreign bodies, which in many cases require the use of a small needle.
To date there have been a number of barriers for Trust Occupational Health services including optometrists in their needle stick injury service. These include; capacity, the absence of a Service Level Agreement and the absence of the necessary governance arrangements.
A Regional Review of Occupational Health recommended a review of the Service Level Agreement to Primary Care. This review is underway and will include consideration of future provision of the service to optometrists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024978%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=434078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=434078"}},{"id":"433838","reference":"AQW 24877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-24","answerBy":"2025-04-08","answered":"2025-04-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the data collected on cancer diagnosis outcomes in individuals who fall outside the age eligibility for screening programmes.","answerText":"Data collected on cancer diagnosis outcomes in individuals who fall outside the age eligibility for screening programmes is outlined in the NI Cancer Registry (NICR) “Routes to Diagnosis” report published on https://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/nicr/CancerInformation/RoutestoDiagnosisReport/\n\nThis report, published in 2024 as part of the work being progressed through the Cancer Strategy NI 2022-32 aims to provide an indication of the key event in each cancer patient’s pathway that most directly led to their cancer diagnosis.\n\nThe “Routes to Diagnosis” report provides data on patient classification at diagnosis, including gender, age, stage and a statistical analysis of trends over time. Additionally, the report provides data on survival statistics, with comparative data provided for survival based on diagnosis route, along with detailed analysis for each tumour site.","answerHtml":"Data collected on cancer diagnosis outcomes in individuals who fall outside the age eligibility for screening programmes is outlined in the NI Cancer Registry (NICR) “Routes to Diagnosis” report published on https://www.qub.ac.uk/research-centres/nicr/CancerInformation/RoutestoDiagnosisReport/
This report, published in 2024 as part of the work being progressed through the Cancer Strategy NI 2022-32 aims to provide an indication of the key event in each cancer patient’s pathway that most directly led to their cancer diagnosis.
The “Routes to Diagnosis” report provides data on patient classification at diagnosis, including gender, age, stage and a statistical analysis of trends over time. Additionally, the report provides data on survival statistics, with comparative data provided for survival based on diagnosis route, along with detailed analysis for each tumour site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433838"}},{"id":"433837","reference":"AQW 24876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-24","answerBy":"2025-04-08","answered":"2025-04-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of whether current age thresholds for cancer screening services reflect the healthcare needs of older people.","answerText":"The age thresholds for population screening programmes are based on recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee which advises the four nations, on all aspects of screening.\n\nThe UK NSC regularly reviews its recommendations on screening as new research and evidence becomes available. When considering who to screen, the benefits of offering a screening programme are weighed up against the possible harms. The UK NSC only recommends screening when it has concluded that the evidence shows that the benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms, for each age cohort.\n\nThere is ongoing research to examine the benefits and harms of extending breast cancer screening to women aged 71-73 and 47-49 years of age (the age X trial). The first report from this trial is expected in 2026.\n\nRegardless of age, anyone experiencing any symptoms of concern should contact their GP immediately.","answerHtml":"The age thresholds for population screening programmes are based on recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee which advises the four nations, on all aspects of screening.
The UK NSC regularly reviews its recommendations on screening as new research and evidence becomes available. When considering who to screen, the benefits of offering a screening programme are weighed up against the possible harms. The UK NSC only recommends screening when it has concluded that the evidence shows that the benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms, for each age cohort.
There is ongoing research to examine the benefits and harms of extending breast cancer screening to women aged 71-73 and 47-49 years of age (the age X trial). The first report from this trial is expected in 2026.
Regardless of age, anyone experiencing any symptoms of concern should contact their GP immediately.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433837"}},{"id":"433836","reference":"AQW 24875/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-24","answerBy":"2025-04-08","answered":"2025-04-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department ensures that individuals beyond the eligible screening age are made aware of self-referral options where available.","answerText":"There are currently three cancer screening programmes in Northern Ireland for asymptomatic individuals: Bowel, Breast and Cervical. Age cut-offs in cancer screening programmes aim to maximize the benefits of screening while minimizing potential harms. If a person has any concerns or symptoms, they are advised to consult their GP immediately.\n\nThere is no self-referral option available outside of the current eligible screening age for bowel cancer screening in Northern Ireland between 60-74 years old.\n\nIn respect of the cervical screening programme, eligible women aged between 25-64 years old are invited routinely to participate in cervical screening. Women with previous abnormal results who require ongoing surveillance past the age of 64, will remain within the screening programme until they can be safely discharged. While there is no self-referral process, any cervical screening samples taken by GPs from women outside the screening age group will still be processed and reported by the laboratory.\n\nWomen over the age of 70 years old are not routinely invited to breast screening but at their last screening appointment within the eligible age cohort of 50-70 years old, women are advised that they can self-refer for screening by contacting their local breast screening unit: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/breast-screening-overview#toc-1.\n\nWomen are given an over 70s leaflet and a reminder card, with additional leaflets and posters being made available to the Breast Screening units to display and in other locations e.g. GP surgeries.\n\nThe UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific committee, makes recommendations to the four nations in relation to screening matters, to include age thresholds. The UK NSC routinely reviews the evidence available for the population screening programmes.","answerHtml":"There are currently three cancer screening programmes in Northern Ireland for asymptomatic individuals: Bowel, Breast and Cervical. Age cut-offs in cancer screening programmes aim to maximize the benefits of screening while minimizing potential harms. If a person has any concerns or symptoms, they are advised to consult their GP immediately.
There is no self-referral option available outside of the current eligible screening age for bowel cancer screening in Northern Ireland between 60-74 years old.
In respect of the cervical screening programme, eligible women aged between 25-64 years old are invited routinely to participate in cervical screening. Women with previous abnormal results who require ongoing surveillance past the age of 64, will remain within the screening programme until they can be safely discharged. While there is no self-referral process, any cervical screening samples taken by GPs from women outside the screening age group will still be processed and reported by the laboratory.
Women over the age of 70 years old are not routinely invited to breast screening but at their last screening appointment within the eligible age cohort of 50-70 years old, women are advised that they can self-refer for screening by contacting their local breast screening unit: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/breast-screening-overview#toc-1.
Women are given an over 70s leaflet and a reminder card, with additional leaflets and posters being made available to the Breast Screening units to display and in other locations e.g. GP surgeries.
The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific committee, makes recommendations to the four nations in relation to screening matters, to include age thresholds. The UK NSC routinely reviews the evidence available for the population screening programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024875%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433836"}},{"id":"433835","reference":"AQW 24874/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-24","answerBy":"2025-04-08","answered":"2025-04-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there are any plans to review the upper age limits for cancer screening services, in line with changes in population health and life expectancy.","answerText":"The age thresholds for population screening programmes are based on recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee which advises the four nations, on all aspects of screening.\n\nThe UK NSC regularly reviews its recommendations on screening as new research and evidence becomes available. When considering who to screen, the benefits of offering a screening programme are weighed up against the possible harms. The UK NSC only recommends screening when it has concluded that the evidence shows that the benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms, for each age cohort.\n\nThere is ongoing research to examine the benefits and harms of extending breast cancer screening to women aged 71-73 and 47-49 years of age (the age X trial). The first report from this trial is expected in 2026.\n\nRegardless of age, anyone experiencing any symptoms of concern should contact their GP immediately.","answerHtml":"The age thresholds for population screening programmes are based on recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee which advises the four nations, on all aspects of screening.
The UK NSC regularly reviews its recommendations on screening as new research and evidence becomes available. When considering who to screen, the benefits of offering a screening programme are weighed up against the possible harms. The UK NSC only recommends screening when it has concluded that the evidence shows that the benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms, for each age cohort.
There is ongoing research to examine the benefits and harms of extending breast cancer screening to women aged 71-73 and 47-49 years of age (the age X trial). The first report from this trial is expected in 2026.
Regardless of age, anyone experiencing any symptoms of concern should contact their GP immediately.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024874%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433835"}},{"id":"433834","reference":"AQW 24873/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-24","answerBy":"2025-04-08","answered":"2025-04-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the rationale for age cut-offs in cancer screening programmes, including breast, cervical and bowel screening.","answerText":"The age thresholds for population screening programmes are based on recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee which advises the four nations, on all aspects of screening.\n\nThe UK NSC regularly reviews its recommendations on screening as new research and evidence becomes available. When considering who to screen, the benefits of offering a screening programme are weighed up against the possible harms. The UK NSC only recommends screening when it has concluded that the evidence shows that the benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms, for each age cohort.\n\nThere is ongoing research to examine the benefits and harms of extending breast cancer screening to women aged 71-73 and 47-49 years of age (the age X trial). The first report from this trial is expected in 2026.\n\nRegardless of age, anyone experiencing any symptoms of concern should contact their GP immediately.","answerHtml":"The age thresholds for population screening programmes are based on recommendations from the UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific advisory committee which advises the four nations, on all aspects of screening.
The UK NSC regularly reviews its recommendations on screening as new research and evidence becomes available. When considering who to screen, the benefits of offering a screening programme are weighed up against the possible harms. The UK NSC only recommends screening when it has concluded that the evidence shows that the benefits of screening outweigh the potential harms, for each age cohort.
There is ongoing research to examine the benefits and harms of extending breast cancer screening to women aged 71-73 and 47-49 years of age (the age X trial). The first report from this trial is expected in 2026.
Regardless of age, anyone experiencing any symptoms of concern should contact their GP immediately.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024873%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433834","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433834"}},{"id":"433553","reference":"AQW 24793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-21","answerBy":"2025-04-07","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the sustainability of community transport services in Northern Ireland; and (ii) whether she will consider establishing a multi-year funding model for Rural Community Transport Partnerships.","answerText":"Services provided by community transport provide a lifeline for individuals and communities, connecting people to essential services that underpin their health, well-being, and independence across both our rural and urban communities. I recognise the important role they play for those who have limited transport opportunities and the value that users, their families and their wider support networks attach to these services.\n\nI recently launched my Department’s Draft 2025-26 Budget Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) consultation. I have not taken any final decisions on how the draft budget will be spent. I am not yet in a position to establish a multi-year funding model in respect of community transport schemes.","answerHtml":"Services provided by community transport provide a lifeline for individuals and communities, connecting people to essential services that underpin their health, well-being, and independence across both our rural and urban communities. I recognise the important role they play for those who have limited transport opportunities and the value that users, their families and their wider support networks attach to these services.
I recently launched my Department’s Draft 2025-26 Budget Equality Impact Assessment (EQIA) consultation. I have not taken any final decisions on how the draft budget will be spent. I am not yet in a position to establish a multi-year funding model in respect of community transport schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433553"}},{"id":"433552","reference":"AQW 24792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-21","answerBy":"2025-04-07","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department will undertake an urgent update of Dial-a-Lift and Disability Action Transport Scheme service maps, to ensure they reflect current demographic needs, particularly in rural parts of East Londonderry.","answerText":"A phased review of Community Transport is currently underway. As part of phase 2 of the review, the existing scheme criteria will be considered including factors such as operational areas.","answerHtml":"A phased review of Community Transport is currently underway. As part of phase 2 of the review, the existing scheme criteria will be considered including factors such as operational areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433552"}},{"id":"433551","reference":"AQW 24791/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-21","answerBy":"2025-04-07","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any plans to review the current driver licensing requirements for community transport operators, particularly in relation to Category D1 licensing; and (ii) whether consideration will be given to aligning with the approach in Great Britain to support recruitment and retention.","answerText":"My officials have previously engaged with the sector on this issue. The current licensing arrangements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers are a legal requirement in support of road safety and at this point in time, I have no plans to change them","answerHtml":"My officials have previously engaged with the sector on this issue. The current licensing arrangements for drivers of not-for-profit community transport providers are a legal requirement in support of road safety and at this point in time, I have no plans to change them
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024791%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433551"}},{"id":"433550","reference":"AQW 24790/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-21","answerBy":"2025-04-07","answered":"2025-04-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any engagement his Department has had with the Department for Infrastructure to develop a regional strategy for non-emergency patient transport; and (ii) whether community transport operators will be included in future hospital discharge planning.","answerText":"I met with the Minister for Infrastructure and the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on 9 September 2024 to discuss the Cross-Departmental Working Group on Community Transport. As part of this work, I have asked officials from my Department to undertake a review of the existing non-emergency transport policy for Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland, with the aim of completing this work in the 2025/26 financial year.\n\nIt is important to note that the provision of transport services for the discharge of patients is a matter for individual Health and Social Care Trusts, where there is a defined medical or financial need. Under the existing non-emergency transport policy, Trusts have access to a wide range of transport options, including the use of community transport services, as appropriate.","answerHtml":"I met with the Minister for Infrastructure and the Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on 9 September 2024 to discuss the Cross-Departmental Working Group on Community Transport. As part of this work, I have asked officials from my Department to undertake a review of the existing non-emergency transport policy for Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland, with the aim of completing this work in the 2025/26 financial year.
It is important to note that the provision of transport services for the discharge of patients is a matter for individual Health and Social Care Trusts, where there is a defined medical or financial need. Under the existing non-emergency transport policy, Trusts have access to a wide range of transport options, including the use of community transport services, as appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024790%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433550","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433550"}},{"id":"433549","reference":"AQW 24789/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-21","answerBy":"2025-04-07","answered":"2025-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they will commit to facilitating cross-departmental collaboration on Community Transport provision as part of the Executive’s work on older people, following the inclusion of ageing in the Programme for Government 2024-2027 priorities.","answerText":"The PfG commits to collaborative working across all Executive Departments.\n\nOur Executive colleague, John O’Dowd MLA, when Infrastructure Minister, along with other executive colleagues Minister Nesbitt MLA and Minister Muir MLA met on 9 September 2024 to establish a Community Transport Cross Departmental Working Group. Through this Group, officials are exploring what options are there for community transport to support the work/objectives of other departments and how it can meet the needs of users, including older people.","answerHtml":"The PfG commits to collaborative working across all Executive Departments.
Our Executive colleague, John O’Dowd MLA, when Infrastructure Minister, along with other executive colleagues Minister Nesbitt MLA and Minister Muir MLA met on 9 September 2024 to establish a Community Transport Cross Departmental Working Group. Through this Group, officials are exploring what options are there for community transport to support the work/objectives of other departments and how it can meet the needs of users, including older people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024789%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433549","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433549"}},{"id":"433326","reference":"AQW 24709/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the specific statutory duties of her Department in ensuring local councils enforce the 20 per cent social housing requirement in planning approvals, including whether her Department has a legal obligation to intervene if a council fails to enforce compliance; and (ii) any instances where her Department has taken action under the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 in the last five years.","answerText":"The enforcement of conditions attached to the approval of planning permission and any local development plan policies that guided that decision is a matter for the local planning authority.\n\nSections 139 and 151of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, provides my Department with the power to issue enforcement and stop notices, however only after consulting the appropriate council. My Department’s reserve powers are not an alternative to the councils much broader enforcement powers and it is only envisaged that these powers should be used in exceptional circumstances.\n\nIn respect to enforcement action taken in the context of delivering social housing provision, my Department has not exercised its reserve powers to date.","answerHtml":"The enforcement of conditions attached to the approval of planning permission and any local development plan policies that guided that decision is a matter for the local planning authority.
Sections 139 and 151of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, provides my Department with the power to issue enforcement and stop notices, however only after consulting the appropriate council. My Department’s reserve powers are not an alternative to the councils much broader enforcement powers and it is only envisaged that these powers should be used in exceptional circumstances.
In respect to enforcement action taken in the context of delivering social housing provision, my Department has not exercised its reserve powers to date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024709%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433326"}},{"id":"433325","reference":"AQW 24708/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she has considered introducing planning restrictions on the conversion of residential properties into short-term holiday lets in high-demand areas, such as coastal towns, in order to protect the availability of long-term housing.","answerText":"A cross departmental group DfC, DfI & DfE has very recently been established to consider this issue.","answerHtml":"A cross departmental group DfC, DfI & DfE has very recently been established to consider this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024708%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433325","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433325"}},{"id":"433324","reference":"AQW 24707/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-04-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of instances recorded in the last five years where developers have failed to deliver social housing units agreed under Section 76 planning agreements of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.","answerText":"Councils here are also responsible for determining the majority of planning applications in their areas. The enforcement of planning control and section 76 planning agreements is therefore primarily a matter for each individual council.","answerHtml":"Councils here are also responsible for determining the majority of planning applications in their areas. The enforcement of planning control and section 76 planning agreements is therefore primarily a matter for each individual council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024707%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433324","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433324"}},{"id":"433323","reference":"AQW 24706/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps she is taking to ensure that surplus public land is prioritised for social and affordable housing development.","answerText":"My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) identifies Local Development Plans (LDPs) as the primary planning vehicle to meet social and affordable housing needs identified through a Housing Needs Assessment and Housing Market Analysis. It indicates that LDPs should do this by zoning land for social/affordable housing, or by indicating, through key site requirements, where a proportion of a site may be required for social and affordable housing. This will not preclude other sites coming forward through the development management process.\n\nMy officials continue to work closely with housing officials in the Department for Communities, Council officers, and the NIHE to ensure that collectively, we can facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality homes to meet the needs of everyone.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) identifies Local Development Plans (LDPs) as the primary planning vehicle to meet social and affordable housing needs identified through a Housing Needs Assessment and Housing Market Analysis. It indicates that LDPs should do this by zoning land for social/affordable housing, or by indicating, through key site requirements, where a proportion of a site may be required for social and affordable housing. This will not preclude other sites coming forward through the development management process.
My officials continue to work closely with housing officials in the Department for Communities, Council officers, and the NIHE to ensure that collectively, we can facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality homes to meet the needs of everyone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024706%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433323","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433323"}},{"id":"433322","reference":"AQW 24705/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-04","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) whether her Department has assessed the impact of delays in the planning process on social housing delivery; and (ii) any actions her Department is taking to address such delays.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the challenges facing the supply of social housing in the North and acknowledge the important role of the planning system in helping to meet current and future housing needs.\n\nTo this end my Department has been working closely with local government, who are responsible for over 99% of all local and major planning applications as well as bringing forward local development plans, and other stakeholders to improve the planning system through the Planning Improvement Programme.\n\nThe programme has already delivered positive changes including legislation to enable council planning authorities to introduce statutory validation checklists to improve the quality of planning applications entering the system, and in turn reduce the potential for delay through the application process. My Department is also conducting a review of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 to enable the planning application process to be further streamlined. Ongoing work with statutory consultees has already resulted in performance improvements and this engagement will continue.\n\nMy officials are also currently engaging with individual council planning authorities and other key stakeholders in the planning system with a specific focus on identifying challenges in current development management (planning application process) practice and procedures and the local development plan process, as well as individual performance related matters, to inform further opportunities for efficiencies and improvements to the system.\n\nI am committed to ensuring that the planning system in the North operates in an efficient and effective way and delivers for all stakeholders including those needing social housing.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the challenges facing the supply of social housing in the North and acknowledge the important role of the planning system in helping to meet current and future housing needs.
To this end my Department has been working closely with local government, who are responsible for over 99% of all local and major planning applications as well as bringing forward local development plans, and other stakeholders to improve the planning system through the Planning Improvement Programme.
The programme has already delivered positive changes including legislation to enable council planning authorities to introduce statutory validation checklists to improve the quality of planning applications entering the system, and in turn reduce the potential for delay through the application process. My Department is also conducting a review of the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (NI) 2015 to enable the planning application process to be further streamlined. Ongoing work with statutory consultees has already resulted in performance improvements and this engagement will continue.
My officials are also currently engaging with individual council planning authorities and other key stakeholders in the planning system with a specific focus on identifying challenges in current development management (planning application process) practice and procedures and the local development plan process, as well as individual performance related matters, to inform further opportunities for efficiencies and improvements to the system.
I am committed to ensuring that the planning system in the North operates in an efficient and effective way and delivers for all stakeholders including those needing social housing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024705%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433322","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433322"}},{"id":"435064","reference":"AQO 1814/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-20","answerBy":"2025-04-01","answered":"2025-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline the process for establishing a veterinary school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Question 5 AQO 1814/22-27\n\nAs autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.\n\nThere is currently no opportunity at the local Higher Education Institutions to study for a Veterinary Medicine degree.\n\nShould a specific proposal for a veterinary school be put forward I am open to working in partnership with all relevant stakeholders to consider the implications of such a proposal.\n\nAny proposal would, of course, need to be considered by all those who have stake in the delivery of veterinary medicine here including the relevant professional bodies.","answerHtml":"Question 5 AQO 1814/22-27
As autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.
There is currently no opportunity at the local Higher Education Institutions to study for a Veterinary Medicine degree.
Should a specific proposal for a veterinary school be put forward I am open to working in partnership with all relevant stakeholders to consider the implications of such a proposal.
Any proposal would, of course, need to be considered by all those who have stake in the delivery of veterinary medicine here including the relevant professional bodies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201814%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=435064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=435064"}},{"id":"433142","reference":"AQW 24621/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-19","answerBy":"2025-04-03","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any impact the increased frequency of reassessments for disability benefits will have on processing times and appeals in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department is currently engaging with the Department for Work and Pensions to assess the impact for Northern Ireland of the proposed changes to disability benefits outlined in the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper. I am committed to ensuring that Northern Ireland has a welfare system that is fair for claimants and taxpayers and protects the most vulnerable. I will continue to engage with the UK Government to ensure that this happens, and also with Executive colleagues.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently engaging with the Department for Work and Pensions to assess the impact for Northern Ireland of the proposed changes to disability benefits outlined in the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper. I am committed to ensuring that Northern Ireland has a welfare system that is fair for claimants and taxpayers and protects the most vulnerable. I will continue to engage with the UK Government to ensure that this happens, and also with Executive colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024621%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433142"}},{"id":"433141","reference":"AQW 24620/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-19","answerBy":"2025-04-03","answered":"2025-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether any discussions have taken place with the Minister for the Economy on expanding job and skills programmes to accommodate those no longer entitled to benefits due to proposed welfare reforms.","answerText":"My Department continues to analyse the potential impact of the Welfare changes announced by the Work and Pensions Secretary. Aligned with the Department for Economy, my Department will be bidding for necessary funding to support those people impacted and no longer entitled to benefits under the proposed changes.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to analyse the potential impact of the Welfare changes announced by the Work and Pensions Secretary. Aligned with the Department for Economy, my Department will be bidding for necessary funding to support those people impacted and no longer entitled to benefits under the proposed changes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024620%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433141","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433141"}},{"id":"433140","reference":"AQW 24619/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-19","answerBy":"2025-04-03","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how his Department plans to support young people under the age of 22 in Northern Ireland who will be affected by the proposed removal of the health element of Universal Credit.","answerText":"I am extremely concerned about the proposed welfare changes announced on 18 March, which I raised during a meeting I had with Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on 20 March.\n\nI, along with Executive colleagues, have also written to the Prime Minister to record our concerns and disappointment at the changes announced.\n\nI understand the shock and uncertainty caused by the proposed changes, but my department does not yet know the full impact.\n\nMy officials are continuing to work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to understand each of the changes and their implications for Northern Ireland","answerHtml":"I am extremely concerned about the proposed welfare changes announced on 18 March, which I raised during a meeting I had with Hilary Benn, Secretary of State for Northern Ireland on 20 March.
I, along with Executive colleagues, have also written to the Prime Minister to record our concerns and disappointment at the changes announced.
I understand the shock and uncertainty caused by the proposed changes, but my department does not yet know the full impact.
My officials are continuing to work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to understand each of the changes and their implications for Northern Ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024619%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433140","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433140"}},{"id":"433139","reference":"AQW 24618/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-19","answerBy":"2025-04-03","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any discussions that have taken place with counterparts in Westminster to ensure the unique needs of Northern Ireland are considered in the implementation of the proposed welfare reforms.","answerText":"My officials are continuing to work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to understand the full implications for Northern Ireland of the changes announced on 18 March. Calculations on the UK wide impact of the Green Paper are expected to be published along with the Chancellor’s Spring Statement on 26th March.\n\nIt will take time to understand the implications of the announced welfare changes.\n\nI want to ensure that Northern Ireland has a welfare system that is fair for claimants and taxpayers and protects the most vulnerable. I will continue to engage with the UK Government to ensure that this happens, and also with Executive colleagues as Northern Ireland does not have the resources to mitigate against these changes.","answerHtml":"My officials are continuing to work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to understand the full implications for Northern Ireland of the changes announced on 18 March. Calculations on the UK wide impact of the Green Paper are expected to be published along with the Chancellor’s Spring Statement on 26th March.
It will take time to understand the implications of the announced welfare changes.
I want to ensure that Northern Ireland has a welfare system that is fair for claimants and taxpayers and protects the most vulnerable. I will continue to engage with the UK Government to ensure that this happens, and also with Executive colleagues as Northern Ireland does not have the resources to mitigate against these changes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024618%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433139","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433139"}},{"id":"433138","reference":"AQW 24617/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-19","answerBy":"2025-04-03","answered":"2025-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how his Department plans to communicate changes resulting from the proposed Westminster welfare reforms to affected claimants in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My officials are continuing to work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to understand the full implications for Northern Ireland of the changes announced on 18 March.\n\nHowever, it will take time to understand the impacts of these changes.\n\nOnce further detail is known, my department will communicate the changes to all relevant stakeholders and claimants.","answerHtml":"My officials are continuing to work closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to understand the full implications for Northern Ireland of the changes announced on 18 March.
However, it will take time to understand the impacts of these changes.
Once further detail is known, my department will communicate the changes to all relevant stakeholders and claimants.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024617%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=433138","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=433138"}},{"id":"432952","reference":"AQW 24521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-18","answerBy":"2025-04-02","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs when the Strategic Investment Board’s report on the extent and nature of the needs for veterinary manpower and veterinary education will be made available to the public.","answerText":"The Strategic Investment Board’s situational analysis and baseline report on the extent and nature of the needs of veterinary manpower and veterinary education within Northern Ireland was published on DAERA’s internet site on 18 May 2023. The document can be accessed by the public using the following link: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/daera/DAERA%2022-343%20DLR.PDF","answerHtml":"The Strategic Investment Board’s situational analysis and baseline report on the extent and nature of the needs of veterinary manpower and veterinary education within Northern Ireland was published on DAERA’s internet site on 18 May 2023. The document can be accessed by the public using the following link: https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/daera/DAERA%2022-343%20DLR.PDF
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432952"}},{"id":"432951","reference":"AQW 24520/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-18","answerBy":"2025-04-02","answered":"2025-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any actions his Department is taking to address the shortage of veterinarians beyond facilitating access to external study opportunities.","answerText":"The responsibility for workforce planning for the veterinary sector as a whole rests with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).\n\nThe NICS through my Department is, of course, a significant employer of veterinary professionals and therefore works closely with the Department of Finance in addressing the challenges associated with the recruitment and retention of veterinarians into DAERA.\n\nRecent measures deployed have included the launch of recruitment competitions as well as securing additional veterinarian resource from Government Agency Frameworks and specialised agency contract providers.\n\nWork is also continuing, again in partnership with the Department of Finance, to improve structures, resourcing, working practices and systems to ensure that the NICS, and DAERA in particular, remains a responsive and attractive employer of professional veterinary staff.","answerHtml":"The responsibility for workforce planning for the veterinary sector as a whole rests with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
The NICS through my Department is, of course, a significant employer of veterinary professionals and therefore works closely with the Department of Finance in addressing the challenges associated with the recruitment and retention of veterinarians into DAERA.
Recent measures deployed have included the launch of recruitment competitions as well as securing additional veterinarian resource from Government Agency Frameworks and specialised agency contract providers.
Work is also continuing, again in partnership with the Department of Finance, to improve structures, resourcing, working practices and systems to ensure that the NICS, and DAERA in particular, remains a responsive and attractive employer of professional veterinary staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024520%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432951"}},{"id":"432950","reference":"AQW 24519/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-18","answerBy":"2025-04-02","answered":"2025-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any steps he will take to proactively encourage universities in Northern Ireland to develop a business case for a veterinary school.","answerText":"I am conscious that responsibility for higher education provision rests with the Department for the Economy and that responsibility for workforce planning for the veterinary sector sits within the remit of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).\n\nHowever, as the NICS through my Department is a significant employer of veterinary professionals, we take a close interest in any steps that can help secure an ongoing supply to meet the needs of Northern Ireland, including any proposals for a veterinary school.\n\nMy Department engaged some time ago with the Strategic Investment Board on this issue and in 2022 it completed a situational analysis and baseline report to inform any future strategic business case for a veterinary school for Northern Ireland, which was subsequently published and is available on my Department’s website. That report recognised that further work to advance a business case was required and this work rests with the third level educational institutes.\n\nI have also recently been able to hear directly from the Vice Chair of the Ulster University (UU) about that university’s ambitions and intentions in relation to a veterinary school.\n\nIf any of our third level educational institutes wish to take plans forward to progress a business case, my Department remains happy to engage on relevant aspects that are related to DAERA’s responsibilities.","answerHtml":"I am conscious that responsibility for higher education provision rests with the Department for the Economy and that responsibility for workforce planning for the veterinary sector sits within the remit of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
However, as the NICS through my Department is a significant employer of veterinary professionals, we take a close interest in any steps that can help secure an ongoing supply to meet the needs of Northern Ireland, including any proposals for a veterinary school.
My Department engaged some time ago with the Strategic Investment Board on this issue and in 2022 it completed a situational analysis and baseline report to inform any future strategic business case for a veterinary school for Northern Ireland, which was subsequently published and is available on my Department’s website. That report recognised that further work to advance a business case was required and this work rests with the third level educational institutes.
I have also recently been able to hear directly from the Vice Chair of the Ulster University (UU) about that university’s ambitions and intentions in relation to a veterinary school.
If any of our third level educational institutes wish to take plans forward to progress a business case, my Department remains happy to engage on relevant aspects that are related to DAERA’s responsibilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024519%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432950"}},{"id":"432949","reference":"AQW 24518/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-18","answerBy":"2025-04-02","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she will introduce specific funding mechanisms and incentives to support the establishment of a veterinary school in Northern Ireland, given the high costs associated with veterinary education.","answerText":"Policy concerning the supply of locally trained graduates to support the veterinary profession has not been led by my Department. However, as autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations. My Department is open to working in partnership with the universities to consider the funding implications of such an initiative should a relevant proposal be forthcoming.","answerHtml":"Policy concerning the supply of locally trained graduates to support the veterinary profession has not been led by my Department. However, as autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations. My Department is open to working in partnership with the universities to consider the funding implications of such an initiative should a relevant proposal be forthcoming.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024518%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432949"}},{"id":"432948","reference":"AQW 24517/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-18","answerBy":"2025-04-02","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of the long-term economic benefits that a veterinary school in Northern Ireland could provide.","answerText":"Policy concerning the supply of locally trained graduates to support the veterinary profession has not been led by my Department. Therefore, my Department has not carried out an assessment of the long-term benefits that a veterinary school could provide. My Department is open to working in partnership with the universities to consider the implications of such an initiative should a relevant proposal be forthcoming.","answerHtml":"Policy concerning the supply of locally trained graduates to support the veterinary profession has not been led by my Department. Therefore, my Department has not carried out an assessment of the long-term benefits that a veterinary school could provide. My Department is open to working in partnership with the universities to consider the implications of such an initiative should a relevant proposal be forthcoming.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024517%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432948"}},{"id":"432544","reference":"AQW 24371/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department will prioritise respite care funding in the next budget, given its critical role in supporting families and reducing long-term healthcare costs.","answerText":"As the Department of Health has responsibility for providing respite care, this is a matter for the Health Minister to consider in line with his other priorities, once the final 2025-26 Budget has been agreed by the Executive.","answerHtml":"As the Department of Health has responsibility for providing respite care, this is a matter for the Health Minister to consider in line with his other priorities, once the final 2025-26 Budget has been agreed by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024371%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432544"}},{"id":"432543","reference":"AQW 24370/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps taken to ensure that carers can access (i) financial support; and (ii) practical support while respite provision remains limited.","answerText":"My Department provides Carer’s Allowance, a benefit for unpaid carers aged 16 and over who provide 35 hours or more of care per week. Carers Allowance can be claimed online quickly via any device with internet access. The Department’s Make the Call service also provides entitlement checks to ensure a carer is accessing all the support available to them. In addition, a range of financial assistance may be available from the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts including: a one-off carers payment to meet an identified need; use of Direct Payments to support a carer in their caring role; and within Children and Disability Services, the cost equivalent of residential short breaks may be offered if the family can identify an appropriate carer.\n\nThe Department of Health has confirmed that all HSC Trusts have well-established carers’ services offering a range of practical and emotional support. Trusts are responsible for the planning and delivery of short break services, aligned to assessed needs and within the financial resources available. For adult services alternatives to bed based care such as day care, a sitting service in the person’s own home or a Direct Payment can be offered. Adults with a learning disability can also access respite/a short break in a Shared Lives Carer’s home. Trusts also signpost to community and voluntary supports. Within Children’s Services, Trusts can offer alternatives such as befriending, Share the Care/Foster Care, Direct Payments and short day breaks through community and voluntary groups. Emergency short breaks are available for children and adults in critical or unforeseen situations when primary caregivers are unexpectedly unavailable, through illness or emergencies, or there may be a safeguarding concern which may mean that care needs provided outside of the family home.","answerHtml":"My Department provides Carer’s Allowance, a benefit for unpaid carers aged 16 and over who provide 35 hours or more of care per week. Carers Allowance can be claimed online quickly via any device with internet access. The Department’s Make the Call service also provides entitlement checks to ensure a carer is accessing all the support available to them. In addition, a range of financial assistance may be available from the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts including: a one-off carers payment to meet an identified need; use of Direct Payments to support a carer in their caring role; and within Children and Disability Services, the cost equivalent of residential short breaks may be offered if the family can identify an appropriate carer.
The Department of Health has confirmed that all HSC Trusts have well-established carers’ services offering a range of practical and emotional support. Trusts are responsible for the planning and delivery of short break services, aligned to assessed needs and within the financial resources available. For adult services alternatives to bed based care such as day care, a sitting service in the person’s own home or a Direct Payment can be offered. Adults with a learning disability can also access respite/a short break in a Shared Lives Carer’s home. Trusts also signpost to community and voluntary supports. Within Children’s Services, Trusts can offer alternatives such as befriending, Share the Care/Foster Care, Direct Payments and short day breaks through community and voluntary groups. Emergency short breaks are available for children and adults in critical or unforeseen situations when primary caregivers are unexpectedly unavailable, through illness or emergencies, or there may be a safeguarding concern which may mean that care needs provided outside of the family home.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024370%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432543"}},{"id":"432542","reference":"AQW 24369/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether additional funding has been allocated to support the reintroduction and expansion of respite services.","answerText":"In answering this question, this has been interpreted as relating to Children with Disabilities (CwD) services, and the response is being provided specifically in respect of the additional funding announced by my Department in October 2024 to improve services for Children with Disabilities.\n\nTo date, a total of circa £1.38m additional funding has been allocated to HSC Trusts for the 2024/25 financial year, for a range of services and supports for CWD, which will include respite / short breaks services.\n\nOfficials are currently working to finalise the allocations to individual HSC Trusts for 2025/26 from the circa £13.1m additional funding available on a recurrent basis.\n\nThe additional funding being provided has been specifically ringfenced in order to directly improve short breaks capacity, increase residential capacity and rapidly expand a range of family, therapeutic and behavioural supports, and the services to be commissioned from the funding will be within these priority areas.","answerHtml":"In answering this question, this has been interpreted as relating to Children with Disabilities (CwD) services, and the response is being provided specifically in respect of the additional funding announced by my Department in October 2024 to improve services for Children with Disabilities.
To date, a total of circa £1.38m additional funding has been allocated to HSC Trusts for the 2024/25 financial year, for a range of services and supports for CWD, which will include respite / short breaks services.
Officials are currently working to finalise the allocations to individual HSC Trusts for 2025/26 from the circa £13.1m additional funding available on a recurrent basis.
The additional funding being provided has been specifically ringfenced in order to directly improve short breaks capacity, increase residential capacity and rapidly expand a range of family, therapeutic and behavioural supports, and the services to be commissioned from the funding will be within these priority areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024369%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432542"}},{"id":"432541","reference":"AQW 24368/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department is ensuring that respite services are equitably distributed across Northern Ireland, including in rural areas.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need. HSCTs endeavour to ensure that respite/short breaks services are equally distributed across Northern Ireland, including across rural and urban areas.\n\nHSCTs advise that a person-centred approach is undertaken in the provision and commissioning of respite/short break care. At an individual level, an assessment of need is completed with service users and their carers. Respite/short break options are then reviewed, agreed in partnership with service users, carers and Trust keyworker/s. An assessment of need will include consideration of factors such as geographical location and appropriate environment.\n\nHSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide respite/short breaks. However, to ensure that respite/ short break services are not limited to the location of available beds within buildings-based facilities, respite/short breaks can also be provided through domiciliary care support within people’s own homes and also through fostering services for children.\n\nDirect Payments are also available to facilitate respite/short breaks for adults within their own local community, this helps support service provision across both urban and rural areas.\n\nShared Lives is also an option for older people and for people with a learning disability. Shared Lives provides community-based care in a Shared Lives Carers home.\n\nMy Department remains committed to working with HSCTs and other agencies to facilitate appropriate respite/short breaks for individuals, delivering support for individuals, families and carers in accordance with assessed need across all areas of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need. HSCTs endeavour to ensure that respite/short breaks services are equally distributed across Northern Ireland, including across rural and urban areas.
HSCTs advise that a person-centred approach is undertaken in the provision and commissioning of respite/short break care. At an individual level, an assessment of need is completed with service users and their carers. Respite/short break options are then reviewed, agreed in partnership with service users, carers and Trust keyworker/s. An assessment of need will include consideration of factors such as geographical location and appropriate environment.
HSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide respite/short breaks. However, to ensure that respite/ short break services are not limited to the location of available beds within buildings-based facilities, respite/short breaks can also be provided through domiciliary care support within people’s own homes and also through fostering services for children.
Direct Payments are also available to facilitate respite/short breaks for adults within their own local community, this helps support service provision across both urban and rural areas.
Shared Lives is also an option for older people and for people with a learning disability. Shared Lives provides community-based care in a Shared Lives Carers home.
My Department remains committed to working with HSCTs and other agencies to facilitate appropriate respite/short breaks for individuals, delivering support for individuals, families and carers in accordance with assessed need across all areas of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024368%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432541","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432541"}},{"id":"432540","reference":"AQW 24367/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-13","answerBy":"2025-03-31","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans in place to restore and expand respite services for individuals with learning disabilities and dementia, given the significant strain on families and carers.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need.\n\nHSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide respite/short breaks for adults with a learning disability and dementia, in accordance with assessed need. HSCTs have procedures in place to optimise capacity within available resources.\n\nThe allocation of respite/short breaks is determined through completion of a Carer’s Assessment. All requests for respite/short breaks are assessed and managed by HSCTs based on individual need, with statutory and independent sector care homes facilitating both planned and emergency respite/short breaks. In addition, there are alternative options to respite/short breaks in a care home setting which include for example, day care, a sitting service in the individual’s own home or a Direct Payment.\n\nShared Lives Services are also available within Older People and Learning Disability Services, offering day support for older people including those with dementia. Shared Lives day support and respite/short breaks services are also available for adults with a learning disability in the Shared Lives Carer’s home. Carer Assessments continue to be offered by HSCTs to assess the carer’s individual situation and provide appropriate support.\n\nIt is recognised that there is complexity of need and demand for respite/short breaks for adults with a learning disability and dementia. My Department is leading on the reform of adult social care under the auspices of the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The Commissioning and Contracting workstream is taking forward the review of the regional care homes contract and specification which will include provision for respite/short break placements within the care home setting for adults in all Programmes of Care, including individuals with learning disabilities and dementia. The Maximising Capacity Workstream is working to make most effective use of the available regional care home resource, which is expected to assist with the provision of respite/short breaks to support individuals and their carers.\n\nWork is also ongoing within my Department to finalise the Learning Disability Service Model. Throughout 2023/24, a body of work has been undertaken, including thematic review of published research and clinical excellence guidelines, consideration of data to better understand population need and service capacity, alongside feedback from people supported, families/carers, professionals and providers. This work and feedback informed a Draft Learning Disability Model which sets out the Department of Health’s vision regarding home, transitions, health & wellbeing, meaningful lives & citizenship, families & carers (including respite/ short breaks), and mental health & behavioural support. Public Consultation is anticipated in coming months, pending finalisation of the model.\n\nMy Department remains committed to working with HSCTs and other agencies to restore and expand respite/short break provision for adults with a learning disability and dementia as appropriate, to offer support to their families/carers in accordance with assessed need.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need.
HSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide respite/short breaks for adults with a learning disability and dementia, in accordance with assessed need. HSCTs have procedures in place to optimise capacity within available resources.
The allocation of respite/short breaks is determined through completion of a Carer’s Assessment. All requests for respite/short breaks are assessed and managed by HSCTs based on individual need, with statutory and independent sector care homes facilitating both planned and emergency respite/short breaks. In addition, there are alternative options to respite/short breaks in a care home setting which include for example, day care, a sitting service in the individual’s own home or a Direct Payment.
Shared Lives Services are also available within Older People and Learning Disability Services, offering day support for older people including those with dementia. Shared Lives day support and respite/short breaks services are also available for adults with a learning disability in the Shared Lives Carer’s home. Carer Assessments continue to be offered by HSCTs to assess the carer’s individual situation and provide appropriate support.
It is recognised that there is complexity of need and demand for respite/short breaks for adults with a learning disability and dementia. My Department is leading on the reform of adult social care under the auspices of the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The Commissioning and Contracting workstream is taking forward the review of the regional care homes contract and specification which will include provision for respite/short break placements within the care home setting for adults in all Programmes of Care, including individuals with learning disabilities and dementia. The Maximising Capacity Workstream is working to make most effective use of the available regional care home resource, which is expected to assist with the provision of respite/short breaks to support individuals and their carers.
Work is also ongoing within my Department to finalise the Learning Disability Service Model. Throughout 2023/24, a body of work has been undertaken, including thematic review of published research and clinical excellence guidelines, consideration of data to better understand population need and service capacity, alongside feedback from people supported, families/carers, professionals and providers. This work and feedback informed a Draft Learning Disability Model which sets out the Department of Health’s vision regarding home, transitions, health & wellbeing, meaningful lives & citizenship, families & carers (including respite/ short breaks), and mental health & behavioural support. Public Consultation is anticipated in coming months, pending finalisation of the model.
My Department remains committed to working with HSCTs and other agencies to restore and expand respite/short break provision for adults with a learning disability and dementia as appropriate, to offer support to their families/carers in accordance with assessed need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024367%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432540","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432540"}},{"id":"432352","reference":"AQW 24279/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether curriculum reform will include updated Relationships and Sexuality Education to ensure young people receive education on consent and healthy relationships.","answerText":"The Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum, currently being carried out by Lucy Crehan, will consider all areas of learning across the curriculum.\n\nGiven the nature of the Review, it is for Ms Crehan to determine the level of detail regarding any recommendations on specific subject content.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Review of the Northern Ireland Curriculum, currently being carried out by Lucy Crehan, will consider all areas of learning across the curriculum.
Given the nature of the Review, it is for Ms Crehan to determine the level of detail regarding any recommendations on specific subject content.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024279%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432352"}},{"id":"432351","reference":"AQW 24278/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the key benchmarks that will be used to measure the success of the TransformED NI strategy, including whether these will be aligned with international standards for educational excellence.","answerText":"A detailed implementation plan to support the TransformED NI strategy will be published in Spring 2025 identifying lead organisations and delivery mechanisms, as well as funding requirements.\n\nEmbedding a culture of monitoring, evaluation and quality assurance will be woven through all aspects of implementation. Following publication of the implementation plan, the Department will report at key milestones notably through an Annual Progress Report.\n\nIntegral to success will be consistent improvement in pupil attainment and we will consider appropriate system measures and targets, including international standards for educational excellence, as we take forward work on curriculum and qualifications review, Key Stage assessment and literacy and numeracy.","answerHtml":"A detailed implementation plan to support the TransformED NI strategy will be published in Spring 2025 identifying lead organisations and delivery mechanisms, as well as funding requirements.
Embedding a culture of monitoring, evaluation and quality assurance will be woven through all aspects of implementation. Following publication of the implementation plan, the Department will report at key milestones notably through an Annual Progress Report.
Integral to success will be consistent improvement in pupil attainment and we will consider appropriate system measures and targets, including international standards for educational excellence, as we take forward work on curriculum and qualifications review, Key Stage assessment and literacy and numeracy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432351"}},{"id":"432350","reference":"AQW 24277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department will take a cross-departmental approach to addressing educational disadvantage.","answerText":"The ‘A Fair Start’ Report and Action Plan, which seeks to address educational disadvantage, was endorsed by the Northern Ireland Executive in May 2021. A number of actions contained in it are cross-departmental and the delivery of the Action Plan is overseen by a cross-departmental board.\n\nThe extent of the implementation of the recommendations will of course be dependent on funding, which is currently significantly lower than recommended by the Expert Panel on Educational Underachievement.\n\nEnsuring a cross-departmental approach is also aligned to key legislation and policy/strategy relevant to all Departments:\n\nThe Children’s Service Cooperation Act 2015 places obligations on all ‘children’s authorities’ to cooperate with each other in order to contribute to the improvement of outcomes for children and young people. All government departments in Northern Ireland are children’s authorities.\n\nThe Executive Children and Young People’s Strategy provides a strategic framework to encourage and support cooperation across departments to improve outcomes for children and young people.\n\nMy department has established the cross-departmental Monitoring and Reporting Board to support implementation of the Children and Young People’s Strategy. The Board draws together senior officials from across departments.\n\nThe role of the Board is to provide strategic direction, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and co-ordination, on policy matters affecting children and young people, particularly where there are significant challenges.","answerHtml":"The ‘A Fair Start’ Report and Action Plan, which seeks to address educational disadvantage, was endorsed by the Northern Ireland Executive in May 2021. A number of actions contained in it are cross-departmental and the delivery of the Action Plan is overseen by a cross-departmental board.
The extent of the implementation of the recommendations will of course be dependent on funding, which is currently significantly lower than recommended by the Expert Panel on Educational Underachievement.
Ensuring a cross-departmental approach is also aligned to key legislation and policy/strategy relevant to all Departments:
The Children’s Service Cooperation Act 2015 places obligations on all ‘children’s authorities’ to cooperate with each other in order to contribute to the improvement of outcomes for children and young people. All government departments in Northern Ireland are children’s authorities.
The Executive Children and Young People’s Strategy provides a strategic framework to encourage and support cooperation across departments to improve outcomes for children and young people.
My department has established the cross-departmental Monitoring and Reporting Board to support implementation of the Children and Young People’s Strategy. The Board draws together senior officials from across departments.
The role of the Board is to provide strategic direction, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and co-ordination, on policy matters affecting children and young people, particularly where there are significant challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432350"}},{"id":"432349","reference":"AQW 24276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps that will be taken to enhance the status and perception of vocational education and apprenticeships, ensuring they are recognised as equal in value to academic routes.","answerText":"My priority is to ensure that learners in schools have access to high quality qualifications that meet the needs and interests of the pupils and that will facilitate progression along their chosen pathway.\n\nWhile policy responsibility for vocational education and apprenticeships rests with Department for the Economy, the Entitlement Framework policy ensures that all learners have access to a broad range of qualifications, both general (academic) and applied (professional/ technical or vocational). Legislation requires that schools offer access to 21 courses at both Key Stage 4 and Post 16, with at least one third of the offer being general and one third applied.\n\nCareers education, information and guidance provided by teachers and careers advisors ensures that learners have access to advice to help them make informed decisions about the most appropriate qualifications and courses to facilitate progress along their chosen routes.\n\nIn support of this, every post-primary school in Northern Ireland is a member of an Area Learning Community (ALC) This provides a mechanism for schools to work collaboratively with other schools and FE colleges to deliver the requirements of the EF. Each ALC also has a careers sub-group comprising careers teachers and coordinators from the participating schools and representatives from the Careers Service. They aim to share best practice, develop joint events for their pupils, and work together on issues such as engaging with local employers and identifying opportunities for apprenticeships in their local area.\n\nA number of local Labour Market Partnerships and ALCs are currently working in partnership to enhance career connections and potential pathways between schools and local industry. My officials are working with the Department for Communities to replicate this across all ALCs.","answerHtml":"My priority is to ensure that learners in schools have access to high quality qualifications that meet the needs and interests of the pupils and that will facilitate progression along their chosen pathway.
While policy responsibility for vocational education and apprenticeships rests with Department for the Economy, the Entitlement Framework policy ensures that all learners have access to a broad range of qualifications, both general (academic) and applied (professional/ technical or vocational). Legislation requires that schools offer access to 21 courses at both Key Stage 4 and Post 16, with at least one third of the offer being general and one third applied.
Careers education, information and guidance provided by teachers and careers advisors ensures that learners have access to advice to help them make informed decisions about the most appropriate qualifications and courses to facilitate progress along their chosen routes.
In support of this, every post-primary school in Northern Ireland is a member of an Area Learning Community (ALC) This provides a mechanism for schools to work collaboratively with other schools and FE colleges to deliver the requirements of the EF. Each ALC also has a careers sub-group comprising careers teachers and coordinators from the participating schools and representatives from the Careers Service. They aim to share best practice, develop joint events for their pupils, and work together on issues such as engaging with local employers and identifying opportunities for apprenticeships in their local area.
A number of local Labour Market Partnerships and ALCs are currently working in partnership to enhance career connections and potential pathways between schools and local industry. My officials are working with the Department for Communities to replicate this across all ALCs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024276%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432349"}},{"id":"432348","reference":"AQW 24275/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-12","answerBy":"2025-03-28","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department will review teacher retention and recruitment, including workload and pay, as part of the TransformED NI strategy.","answerText":"High-quality teachers are the most important feature of a successful education system and I am determined to make teaching in Northern Ireland an attractive, high-status profession.\n\nAs outlined in my Department’s Education Strategy, TransformED, attracting, developing and retaining the best teachers is the greatest challenge that education systems face.\n\nNorthern Ireland is extremely fortunate that historically we have recruited high performing school leavers and graduates to teaching. Teaching has been popular amongst our young people and the profession held in high esteem. Yet in recent years there have been increasing challenges with teacher recruitment and retention.\n\nA number of key commitments are, therefore, included in TransformED to address these challenges which will be progressed as a matter of urgency. These include medium and long-term strategic monitoring of teacher supply to anticipate and remediate issues and reviewing how best to attract high-quality graduates to subject shortage areas.","answerHtml":"High-quality teachers are the most important feature of a successful education system and I am determined to make teaching in Northern Ireland an attractive, high-status profession.
As outlined in my Department’s Education Strategy, TransformED, attracting, developing and retaining the best teachers is the greatest challenge that education systems face.
Northern Ireland is extremely fortunate that historically we have recruited high performing school leavers and graduates to teaching. Teaching has been popular amongst our young people and the profession held in high esteem. Yet in recent years there have been increasing challenges with teacher recruitment and retention.
A number of key commitments are, therefore, included in TransformED to address these challenges which will be progressed as a matter of urgency. These include medium and long-term strategic monitoring of teacher supply to anticipate and remediate issues and reviewing how best to attract high-quality graduates to subject shortage areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024275%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432348"}},{"id":"432098","reference":"AQW 24168/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any mechanisms currently in place to allow patients to receive treatment in a different Health and Social Care Trust area if waiting times are significantly shortened.","answerText":"A collaborative approach to waiting list management is well developed across all Health and Social Care Trusts. The Elective Care Management Team meets regularly and provides a forum for Trusts to highlight pressures that may require assistance, alongside discussion of opportunities to equalise waiting times across Trusts. All Trusts are represented at a senior level.\n\nThis regional approach has been further embedded by the development of the regional day procedure centres (DPCs), which provide capacity to treat patients who require low acuity procedures across a range of specialties. Patients travel from all Trusts to access this capacity. This supports the efficient use of core Trust capacity, which often focuses on more complex procedures. The DPCs have supported reductions in the number of patients waiting and the associated waiting times for procedures such as endoscopy. In addition, a number of specialist centres have been created for Urological conditions which can be accessed by patients from all Trusts, with the complex stone service in Craigavon Area Hospital and the bladder outflow service at the Ulster Hospital examples of this.\n\nThis collaborative approach continues to be strengthened through service and technical developments. The implementation of the encompass programme has provided the opportunity to develop single regional waiting lists that will ensure patients are assessed in chronological order on a regional basis, rather than within their local Trust area. This will allow patients to be assessed in the next available clinic slot, which may be in any Trust, mitigating Trust specific service pressures that can impact waiting times. Work is ongoing to implement this process for women referred for urgent suspected breast cancer assessment, with plans in place to develop this in other specialties such as dermatology.","answerHtml":"A collaborative approach to waiting list management is well developed across all Health and Social Care Trusts. The Elective Care Management Team meets regularly and provides a forum for Trusts to highlight pressures that may require assistance, alongside discussion of opportunities to equalise waiting times across Trusts. All Trusts are represented at a senior level.
This regional approach has been further embedded by the development of the regional day procedure centres (DPCs), which provide capacity to treat patients who require low acuity procedures across a range of specialties. Patients travel from all Trusts to access this capacity. This supports the efficient use of core Trust capacity, which often focuses on more complex procedures. The DPCs have supported reductions in the number of patients waiting and the associated waiting times for procedures such as endoscopy. In addition, a number of specialist centres have been created for Urological conditions which can be accessed by patients from all Trusts, with the complex stone service in Craigavon Area Hospital and the bladder outflow service at the Ulster Hospital examples of this.
This collaborative approach continues to be strengthened through service and technical developments. The implementation of the encompass programme has provided the opportunity to develop single regional waiting lists that will ensure patients are assessed in chronological order on a regional basis, rather than within their local Trust area. This will allow patients to be assessed in the next available clinic slot, which may be in any Trust, mitigating Trust specific service pressures that can impact waiting times. Work is ongoing to implement this process for women referred for urgent suspected breast cancer assessment, with plans in place to develop this in other specialties such as dermatology.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024168%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432098"}},{"id":"432097","reference":"AQW 24167/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the impact increased cross-trust collaboration would have on reducing long-term waiting lists for key procedures; and (ii) whether a cost-benefit analysis has been conducted.","answerText":"Reducing waiting lists requires a multifaceted approach. Regional cross Trust collaboration has been fundamental in supporting efforts to address waiting lists here and deliver much-needed reform of services to improve outcomes for our patients.\n\nThe Elective Care Framework (ECF), May 2024, sets out the path for the development and reform of elective care services and details measures needed to address the unacceptable waiting lists here. A key component to successful delivery is the continued regional collaboration to ensure effective and efficient use of our resources and build on the good progress and improvements made to date to reduce waits here. Much good work is already underway through, for example; regional elective care centres, mega clinics and rapid diagnosis centres.\n\nThe investment needed to reduce waiting lists is clearly set out in the Framework and if fully funded and implemented, would address the waiting list backlog, close the demand capacity gap and deliver reform for the benefit of our patients.\n\nWhilst the Programme for Government includes a commitment to invest up to £215m a year on the waiting list backlog, in line with the required investment levels detailed in the ECF, the draft 2025/26 NI budget does not contain any additional funding for waiting lists. Without this investment, there is no realistic possibility of reducing waiting times in Northern Ireland to acceptable levels.","answerHtml":"Reducing waiting lists requires a multifaceted approach. Regional cross Trust collaboration has been fundamental in supporting efforts to address waiting lists here and deliver much-needed reform of services to improve outcomes for our patients.
The Elective Care Framework (ECF), May 2024, sets out the path for the development and reform of elective care services and details measures needed to address the unacceptable waiting lists here. A key component to successful delivery is the continued regional collaboration to ensure effective and efficient use of our resources and build on the good progress and improvements made to date to reduce waits here. Much good work is already underway through, for example; regional elective care centres, mega clinics and rapid diagnosis centres.
The investment needed to reduce waiting lists is clearly set out in the Framework and if fully funded and implemented, would address the waiting list backlog, close the demand capacity gap and deliver reform for the benefit of our patients.
Whilst the Programme for Government includes a commitment to invest up to £215m a year on the waiting list backlog, in line with the required investment levels detailed in the ECF, the draft 2025/26 NI budget does not contain any additional funding for waiting lists. Without this investment, there is no realistic possibility of reducing waiting times in Northern Ireland to acceptable levels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024167%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432097"}},{"id":"432096","reference":"AQW 24166/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration given to a more collaborative approach to waiting list management across Health and Social Care Trusts to ensure more efficient use of capacity.","answerText":"A collaborative approach to waiting list management is well developed across all Health and Social Care Trusts. The Elective Care Management Team meets regularly and provides a forum for Trusts to highlight pressures that may require assistance, alongside discussion of opportunities to equalise waiting times across Trusts. All Trusts are represented at a senior level.\n\nThis regional approach has been further embedded by the development of the regional day procedure centres (DPCs), which provide capacity to treat patients who require low acuity procedures across a range of specialties. Patients travel from all Trusts to access this capacity. This supports the efficient use of core Trust capacity, which often focuses on more complex procedures. The DPCs have supported reductions in the number of patients waiting and the associated waiting times for procedures such as endoscopy. In addition, a number of specialist centres have been created for Urological conditions which can be accessed by patients from all Trusts, with the complex stone service in Craigavon Area Hospital and the bladder outflow service at the Ulster Hospital examples of this.\n\nThis collaborative approach continues to be strengthened through service and technical developments. The implementation of the encompass programme has provided the opportunity to develop single regional waiting lists that will ensure patients are assessed in chronological order on a regional basis, rather than within their local Trust area. This will allow patients to be assessed in the next available clinic slot, which may be in any Trust, mitigating Trust specific service pressures that can impact waiting times. Work is ongoing to implement this process for women referred for urgent suspected breast cancer assessment, with plans in place to develop this in other specialties such as dermatology.","answerHtml":"A collaborative approach to waiting list management is well developed across all Health and Social Care Trusts. The Elective Care Management Team meets regularly and provides a forum for Trusts to highlight pressures that may require assistance, alongside discussion of opportunities to equalise waiting times across Trusts. All Trusts are represented at a senior level.
This regional approach has been further embedded by the development of the regional day procedure centres (DPCs), which provide capacity to treat patients who require low acuity procedures across a range of specialties. Patients travel from all Trusts to access this capacity. This supports the efficient use of core Trust capacity, which often focuses on more complex procedures. The DPCs have supported reductions in the number of patients waiting and the associated waiting times for procedures such as endoscopy. In addition, a number of specialist centres have been created for Urological conditions which can be accessed by patients from all Trusts, with the complex stone service in Craigavon Area Hospital and the bladder outflow service at the Ulster Hospital examples of this.
This collaborative approach continues to be strengthened through service and technical developments. The implementation of the encompass programme has provided the opportunity to develop single regional waiting lists that will ensure patients are assessed in chronological order on a regional basis, rather than within their local Trust area. This will allow patients to be assessed in the next available clinic slot, which may be in any Trust, mitigating Trust specific service pressures that can impact waiting times. Work is ongoing to implement this process for women referred for urgent suspected breast cancer assessment, with plans in place to develop this in other specialties such as dermatology.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024166%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432096"}},{"id":"432095","reference":"AQW 24165/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any engagement he has had with healthcare professionals and patient representatives on the feasibility of a cross-trust waiting list model, including any feedback received.","answerText":"Addressing waiting times continues to be a key priority for me, and the Elective Care Framework (ECF), published May 2024, sets out my Department’s plan to tackling those waiting times.\n\nA key objective of the ECF is for the development of regional waiting lists. At present, there is not one single cross Trust waiting list model however, there is much work being taken forward in this area by the various clinical networks that have been established to support regional working, with examples across specialities such as breast, urology and general surgery.\n\nFor example, in September 2024 I announced the development of a regional breast assessment waiting list. This announcement was based on proposals that had been co-produced with key stakeholders including service user representatives, health care professionals and the charity sector. There was broad consensus among these groups that a regional waiting list was the correct approach to address inequities of access to Breast Cancer Services.\n\nI recognise that there are a number of benefits in having single waiting lists, which include the ability to maximise patient equity for the care they need, irrespective of where they live. Work will continue in this area to ensure patients are assessed as quickly as possible, on a regional basis.\n\nOpportunities to develop single waiting lists will be considered through engagement with all relevant stakeholders, where clinically appropriate and where resources are available.","answerHtml":"Addressing waiting times continues to be a key priority for me, and the Elective Care Framework (ECF), published May 2024, sets out my Department’s plan to tackling those waiting times.
A key objective of the ECF is for the development of regional waiting lists. At present, there is not one single cross Trust waiting list model however, there is much work being taken forward in this area by the various clinical networks that have been established to support regional working, with examples across specialities such as breast, urology and general surgery.
For example, in September 2024 I announced the development of a regional breast assessment waiting list. This announcement was based on proposals that had been co-produced with key stakeholders including service user representatives, health care professionals and the charity sector. There was broad consensus among these groups that a regional waiting list was the correct approach to address inequities of access to Breast Cancer Services.
I recognise that there are a number of benefits in having single waiting lists, which include the ability to maximise patient equity for the care they need, irrespective of where they live. Work will continue in this area to ensure patients are assessed as quickly as possible, on a regional basis.
Opportunities to develop single waiting lists will be considered through engagement with all relevant stakeholders, where clinically appropriate and where resources are available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024165%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432095"}},{"id":"432094","reference":"AQW 24164/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-11","answerBy":"2025-03-27","answered":"2025-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any safeguards in place to ensure that patients transferred between Health and Social Care Trusts do not experience delays in follow-up care or aftercare in their home Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The onus is on the discharging Health and Social Care Trust to make a timely referral as appropriate to the home Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nThe ability to provide care in the home Trust will be dependent on service capacity within the home Trust at the time of the referral.\n\nThe individual is central in this process and it is important that this is done in a timely way to ensure the least possible inconvenience to the person and or their family","answerHtml":"The onus is on the discharging Health and Social Care Trust to make a timely referral as appropriate to the home Health and Social Care Trust.
The ability to provide care in the home Trust will be dependent on service capacity within the home Trust at the time of the referral.
The individual is central in this process and it is important that this is done in a timely way to ensure the least possible inconvenience to the person and or their family
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024164%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=432094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=432094"}},{"id":"431812","reference":"AQW 24096/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-10","answerBy":"2025-03-26","answered":"2025-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she will review existing planning policy to assess the impact on the balance between apartment developments and the preservation of family housing in coastal towns.","answerText":"The Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) support the creation of balanced communities and, in relation to all types of housing, the policy approach is to facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. Council local development plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for delivering this by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth in their areas to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, such as the balance between family housing; apartments; holiday homes; and short-stay rental properties. Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. Councils are also responsible for operating effective development management in respect of planning applications for housing and in doing so, the provisions of regional strategic planning policy must be taken into account. I have no plans to revise the Department’s planning policy approach on housing at this time.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) support the creation of balanced communities and, in relation to all types of housing, the policy approach is to facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. Council local development plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for delivering this by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth in their areas to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, such as the balance between family housing; apartments; holiday homes; and short-stay rental properties. Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. Councils are also responsible for operating effective development management in respect of planning applications for housing and in doing so, the provisions of regional strategic planning policy must be taken into account. I have no plans to revise the Department’s planning policy approach on housing at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024096%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431812","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431812"}},{"id":"431811","reference":"AQW 24095/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-10","answerBy":"2025-03-26","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has considered introducing planning restrictions on the construction of apartment developments in coastal towns, such as Portrush and Portstewart, to protect the character of these areas.","answerText":"Councils across the North are responsible for bringing forward housing policies for their own areas in their Local Development Plans (LDPs). In doing so, they must take account of the Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) which supports the creation of balanced communities and the provision of adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, such as the balance between family housing, apartments and holiday homes.\n\nWhere appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. My Department performs an important oversight role in seeking to ensure that LDPs take account of regional policy and guidance and has been encouraging of LDP approaches that support the creation of balanced communities and an appropriate mix of tenures. In addition to plan making, councils are responsible for determining planning applications for housing in their local areas and in doing so, the provisions of regional strategic planning policy must also be taken into consideration. I have no plans to revise the Department’s planning policy approach on housing to restrict the construction of apartment developments in coastal towns at this time.","answerHtml":"Councils across the North are responsible for bringing forward housing policies for their own areas in their Local Development Plans (LDPs). In doing so, they must take account of the Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) which supports the creation of balanced communities and the provision of adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, such as the balance between family housing, apartments and holiday homes.
Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. My Department performs an important oversight role in seeking to ensure that LDPs take account of regional policy and guidance and has been encouraging of LDP approaches that support the creation of balanced communities and an appropriate mix of tenures. In addition to plan making, councils are responsible for determining planning applications for housing in their local areas and in doing so, the provisions of regional strategic planning policy must also be taken into consideration. I have no plans to revise the Department’s planning policy approach on housing to restrict the construction of apartment developments in coastal towns at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024095%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431811","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431811"}},{"id":"431810","reference":"AQW 24094/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-10","answerBy":"2025-03-26","answered":"2025-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any enforcement measures in place to ensure that developers comply with the 20 per cent social housing requirement in Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.","answerText":"The interpretation and application of the policies contained in the Northern Area Plan 2016 is a matter for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council as the local planning authority. Following the approval of a planning application, any conditions attached to that permission, and any local development plan policies that guided the decision, can then be enforced if a developer fails to comply with their permission.\n\nThere are a wide range of powers and penalties in the Planning Act (Northen Ireland) 2011 available to councils enabling them to take enforcement action, where they consider it expedient to do so, having regard to the provisions of the local development plan and to any other material considerations. Whether to take enforcement action is matter for the council, as the local planning authority, to decide.","answerHtml":"The interpretation and application of the policies contained in the Northern Area Plan 2016 is a matter for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council as the local planning authority. Following the approval of a planning application, any conditions attached to that permission, and any local development plan policies that guided the decision, can then be enforced if a developer fails to comply with their permission.
There are a wide range of powers and penalties in the Planning Act (Northen Ireland) 2011 available to councils enabling them to take enforcement action, where they consider it expedient to do so, having regard to the provisions of the local development plan and to any other material considerations. Whether to take enforcement action is matter for the council, as the local planning authority, to decide.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431810","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431810"}},{"id":"431809","reference":"AQW 24093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-10","answerBy":"2025-03-26","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has undertaken a review of Section 76 Planning Agreements to assess their effectiveness in securing social housing contributions.","answerText":"Planning agreements are voluntary but legally binding and some councils will use them more than others. My Department does not review councils’ use of planning agreements.\n\nA planning agreement can potentially be used to ensure a development is occupied by a defined use or user. For example, it may be used to secure a proportion of affordable housing or social housing in a new development or a mix of tenure in a housing development. This could be where a need has been established, possibly through a policy requirement or as a key site requirement of a Local Development Plan and where a planning condition may not give the appropriate level of detail or security of outcome to be delivered.","answerHtml":"Planning agreements are voluntary but legally binding and some councils will use them more than others. My Department does not review councils’ use of planning agreements.
A planning agreement can potentially be used to ensure a development is occupied by a defined use or user. For example, it may be used to secure a proportion of affordable housing or social housing in a new development or a mix of tenure in a housing development. This could be where a need has been established, possibly through a policy requirement or as a key site requirement of a Local Development Plan and where a planning condition may not give the appropriate level of detail or security of outcome to be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431809"}},{"id":"431808","reference":"AQW 24092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-10","answerBy":"2025-03-26","answered":"2025-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of social housing units added to the Housing Executive stock as a result of Section 76 planning agreements in each of the last five years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. With regard to the Housing Executive, I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.\n\n“Section 76 (S76) planning agreement is a legally binding agreement, usually between the applicant or landowner and a council, to secure specific planning obligations necessary to make proposed development acceptable. One of the uses of such an agreement is to secure affordable housing (social or intermediate housing). The planning agreement must be signed and completed before planning permission will be issued by Council.\n\nThe Housing Executive does not currently build social housing stock, therefore there have been no units added to Housing Executive stock as a result of S76 planning agreements.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly with regard to matters that are their responsibility. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. With regard to the Housing Executive, I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.
“Section 76 (S76) planning agreement is a legally binding agreement, usually between the applicant or landowner and a council, to secure specific planning obligations necessary to make proposed development acceptable. One of the uses of such an agreement is to secure affordable housing (social or intermediate housing). The planning agreement must be signed and completed before planning permission will be issued by Council.
The Housing Executive does not currently build social housing stock, therefore there have been no units added to Housing Executive stock as a result of S76 planning agreements.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly with regard to matters that are their responsibility. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431808"}},{"id":"431383","reference":"AQW 23942/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-06","answerBy":"2025-03-24","answered":"2025-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the specific measures his Department is implementing to enhance teacher training programmes, as part of the Special Educational Needs Reform Agenda, to ensure educators are equipped to support children with special educational needs.","answerText":"One of the four pillars of the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda is ‘Right People’, which focuses on ensuring we have a highly skilled workforce, equipped and empowered to build supportive learning environments for pupils with SEN.\n\nThe SEN Reform five-year Delivery Plan includes a range of specific measures in this regard. Actions relating to teacher training include defining and implementing:\n\nSEN/Inclusion subject content requirements for Initial Teacher Education courses (both PGCE and B.Ed);\n\nEarly Professional Development training for Newly Qualified Teachers offer to facilitate regular training in relation to SEN, disabilities and broader inclusive practice;\n\na Professional Learning Programme for teaching staff;\n\na Leadership Programme for SEN Learning Support Co-ordinators/ SENCos;\n\na Resource Portal for Teachers;\n\na universal SEN Training Programme targeted at all front-line staff\n\nThe Education Authority (EA) will also offer a professional development programme and supporting resources for teachers through the implementation of the child-centred Graduated Response Framework.\n\nAs set out in the SEN Reform Delivery Plan, the EA, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) (who determine content of Initial Teacher Education programmes) and the Middletown Centre for Autism will be key delivery partners in taking this work forward.\n\nThe design and trial of a teacher and classroom assistant professional learning programme is one of the projects funded under NICS Transformation Board funding which the Finance Minister confirmed on 4 March 2025.","answerHtml":"One of the four pillars of the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda is ‘Right People’, which focuses on ensuring we have a highly skilled workforce, equipped and empowered to build supportive learning environments for pupils with SEN.
The SEN Reform five-year Delivery Plan includes a range of specific measures in this regard. Actions relating to teacher training include defining and implementing:
SEN/Inclusion subject content requirements for Initial Teacher Education courses (both PGCE and B.Ed);
Early Professional Development training for Newly Qualified Teachers offer to facilitate regular training in relation to SEN, disabilities and broader inclusive practice;
a Professional Learning Programme for teaching staff;
a Leadership Programme for SEN Learning Support Co-ordinators/ SENCos;
a Resource Portal for Teachers;
a universal SEN Training Programme targeted at all front-line staff
The Education Authority (EA) will also offer a professional development programme and supporting resources for teachers through the implementation of the child-centred Graduated Response Framework.
As set out in the SEN Reform Delivery Plan, the EA, Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) (who determine content of Initial Teacher Education programmes) and the Middletown Centre for Autism will be key delivery partners in taking this work forward.
The design and trial of a teacher and classroom assistant professional learning programme is one of the projects funded under NICS Transformation Board funding which the Finance Minister confirmed on 4 March 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023942%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431383","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431383"}},{"id":"431382","reference":"AQW 23941/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-06","answerBy":"2025-03-24","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans his Department has to introduce mandatory continuous professional development programmes for all teachers focused on special educational needs.","answerText":"Investing in and supporting the teacher workforce is a key priority in my Department’s TransformED NI: Transforming Teaching and Learning strategy. This strategy aims to ensure high-quality professional development is provided throughout teachers’ careers.\n\nIt is closely aligned with my recently published Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and five-year Delivery Plan, which set out an ambitious programme for the transformation of services to support children and young people with SEN.\n\nTo support SEN-related professional learning, the Education Authority (EA) provides a range of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities. While participation is not mandatory, my Department has facilitated attendance by providing financial support for substitute cover in schools.\n\nThe EA also offers a wide range of SEN-focused resources, including CPD packs for school-wide use and online professional development programmes, accessible via its website. Additionally, the Higher Education Institutions in Northern Ireland provide ongoing SEN-related professional learning opportunities for teachers.\n\nI will consider further the approach to SEN-related professional development over coming months.","answerHtml":"Investing in and supporting the teacher workforce is a key priority in my Department’s TransformED NI: Transforming Teaching and Learning strategy. This strategy aims to ensure high-quality professional development is provided throughout teachers’ careers.
It is closely aligned with my recently published Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and five-year Delivery Plan, which set out an ambitious programme for the transformation of services to support children and young people with SEN.
To support SEN-related professional learning, the Education Authority (EA) provides a range of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) opportunities. While participation is not mandatory, my Department has facilitated attendance by providing financial support for substitute cover in schools.
The EA also offers a wide range of SEN-focused resources, including CPD packs for school-wide use and online professional development programmes, accessible via its website. Additionally, the Higher Education Institutions in Northern Ireland provide ongoing SEN-related professional learning opportunities for teachers.
I will consider further the approach to SEN-related professional development over coming months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023941%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431382","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431382"}},{"id":"431381","reference":"AQW 23940/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-06","answerBy":"2025-03-24","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any measures currently in place to ensure that mainstream teachers and classroom assistants receive adequate support in assisting children with special educational needs who may display challenging behaviours.","answerText":"All schools have a statutory responsibility within their scheme of management (The Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998: Articles 3-6) for developing their own policies to promote good behaviour and discipline.\n\nArticle 6 of the 1998 Education (Northern Ireland) Order, tasks the Education Authority (EA) with preparing a statement setting out the arrangements it has made or proposes to make for the education of children with behaviour difficulties including the arrangements for the provision of advice and support to schools.\n\nThe updated Behaviour Plan for 2024-2025 highlights the EA’s arrangements in respect of supporting positive behaviours in schools, including Telephone Advice Helpline, teacher professional learning opportunities, risk management processes, relevant reporting arrangements and recording arrangements and can be found at: https://send.eani.org.uk/support-services/behaviour-support-post-primary/information-schools/support-available-schools.\n\nA range of whole school capacity building training is available from the EA Primary and Post Primary Behaviour Support and Provisions services, which encourages schools to establish early intervention, preventative, trauma informed and nurturing approaches to support behaviours that challenge and promote a culture of positive emotional health and wellbeing.\n\nSchools can also refer directly to the EA Primary and Post Primary Behaviour Support to request staff professional development, pupil intervention and request placement within EOTAS through the respective EOTAS Panel for the phase.","answerHtml":"All schools have a statutory responsibility within their scheme of management (The Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998: Articles 3-6) for developing their own policies to promote good behaviour and discipline.
Article 6 of the 1998 Education (Northern Ireland) Order, tasks the Education Authority (EA) with preparing a statement setting out the arrangements it has made or proposes to make for the education of children with behaviour difficulties including the arrangements for the provision of advice and support to schools.
The updated Behaviour Plan for 2024-2025 highlights the EA’s arrangements in respect of supporting positive behaviours in schools, including Telephone Advice Helpline, teacher professional learning opportunities, risk management processes, relevant reporting arrangements and recording arrangements and can be found at: https://send.eani.org.uk/support-services/behaviour-support-post-primary/information-schools/support-available-schools.
A range of whole school capacity building training is available from the EA Primary and Post Primary Behaviour Support and Provisions services, which encourages schools to establish early intervention, preventative, trauma informed and nurturing approaches to support behaviours that challenge and promote a culture of positive emotional health and wellbeing.
Schools can also refer directly to the EA Primary and Post Primary Behaviour Support to request staff professional development, pupil intervention and request placement within EOTAS through the respective EOTAS Panel for the phase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023940%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431381","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431381"}},{"id":"431380","reference":"AQW 23939/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-06","answerBy":"2025-03-24","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department ensures that all newly-qualified teachers receive adequate teacher training in special educational needs support before entering the classroom.","answerText":"The Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Northern Ireland deliver Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes that are aligned with, and prepare future teachers for the delivery of, the Northern Ireland Curriculum.\n\nAll ITE courses include a range of mandatory and optional modules for student teachers focused on Special Educational Needs (SEN). These programmes are designed to ensure, amongst other things, that new teachers achieve a set of professional competences identified by the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI). All aspects of ITE programmes can be mapped against one or more of these competences and SEN is specifically referenced in competences 9, 15 and 21.\n\nA key action in TransformED NI is to develop a core content framework for initial teacher education. This will ensure a consistent and unified approach that clearly identifies the essential skills and knowledge that all teachers should acquire before entering the classroom.","answerHtml":"The Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in Northern Ireland deliver Initial Teacher Education (ITE) programmes that are aligned with, and prepare future teachers for the delivery of, the Northern Ireland Curriculum.
All ITE courses include a range of mandatory and optional modules for student teachers focused on Special Educational Needs (SEN). These programmes are designed to ensure, amongst other things, that new teachers achieve a set of professional competences identified by the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI). All aspects of ITE programmes can be mapped against one or more of these competences and SEN is specifically referenced in competences 9, 15 and 21.
A key action in TransformED NI is to develop a core content framework for initial teacher education. This will ensure a consistent and unified approach that clearly identifies the essential skills and knowledge that all teachers should acquire before entering the classroom.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023939%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431380","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431380"}},{"id":"431379","reference":"AQW 23938/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-06","answerBy":"2025-03-24","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether schools are subject to a limit on the number of children they can refer for educational psychology assessments each year.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) Educational Psychology Service (EPS) plays a vital role in supporting schools at all stages of the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice. However, the service operates with finite resources, which limits the amount of time that can be allocated to schools, pupils, and parents. To ensure fair and equitable distribution, schools receive an allocated portion of EPS time based on a formula that considers 50% school enrolment and 50% Free School Meal Entitlement (FSME), ensuring that all schools have access to support.\n\nWhile this system provides a structured approach, flexibility is built in to allow children with complex and significant needs to receive support beyond the standard school allocation. However, increasing demand on the service means that it is not possible to meet all requests. Therefore, it is essential to prioritise children with the highest level of need to ensure resources are directed where they are most urgently required.\n\nTo maximise impact within these constraints, the service has been working to develop creative and agile solutions to support schools and pupils more efficiently. This includes the introduction of Solution-Focused Hubs and Early Years Clinics as pilot initiatives. The outcomes of these pilots will help inform future service delivery and ensure the service remains responsive to the evolving needs of schools and pupils.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) Educational Psychology Service (EPS) plays a vital role in supporting schools at all stages of the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Code of Practice. However, the service operates with finite resources, which limits the amount of time that can be allocated to schools, pupils, and parents. To ensure fair and equitable distribution, schools receive an allocated portion of EPS time based on a formula that considers 50% school enrolment and 50% Free School Meal Entitlement (FSME), ensuring that all schools have access to support.
While this system provides a structured approach, flexibility is built in to allow children with complex and significant needs to receive support beyond the standard school allocation. However, increasing demand on the service means that it is not possible to meet all requests. Therefore, it is essential to prioritise children with the highest level of need to ensure resources are directed where they are most urgently required.
To maximise impact within these constraints, the service has been working to develop creative and agile solutions to support schools and pupils more efficiently. This includes the introduction of Solution-Focused Hubs and Early Years Clinics as pilot initiatives. The outcomes of these pilots will help inform future service delivery and ensure the service remains responsive to the evolving needs of schools and pupils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023938%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431379","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431379"}},{"id":"431223","reference":"AQW 23866/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-05","answerBy":"2025-03-21","answered":"2025-09-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any steps being taken to ensure a coordinated approach across all Departments in addressing elder abuse, in line with the priorities in the Programme for Government 2024-2027.","answerText":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031, which is jointly led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, adopts an inclusive approach, recognising the diversity of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse and their needs.\n\nThe Strategy acknowledges that there will be specific challenges faced by older victims of domestic and sexual abuse and the Strategy’s Expert Reference Group (ERG) includes representation from the organisation ‘Hourglass’ to ensure that the voices and perspectives of older victims help to inform policy decisions and the development of services.\n\nDepartment of Justice along with NI Policing Board, via a Joint Committee, provides funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which are statutory stand-alone bodies that engage with their local communities to identify and help address local community safety concerns.\n\nSome PCSP initiatives that can help support older people, rather than specifically address elder abuse, include:\n\nthe provision of call blocking schemes via Truecall telephone devices installed to stop nuisance calls and scammers;\n\ncommissioning of services through Ageing Well which provides support to older people to reduce their fear of crime and vulnerability to crime, particularly those older people who may be alone and/or infirm;\n\nprojects which raise awareness among older people of the risks of bogus callers, internet and telephone fraud, and other relevant issues which older people and/or their carers might identify.\n\nThe Executive are committed to working together to support all Ministers to deliver the priorities as laid out in the Programme for Government priorities and to support Departments in their own initiatives going forward.","answerHtml":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031, which is jointly led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, adopts an inclusive approach, recognising the diversity of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse and their needs.
The Strategy acknowledges that there will be specific challenges faced by older victims of domestic and sexual abuse and the Strategy’s Expert Reference Group (ERG) includes representation from the organisation ‘Hourglass’ to ensure that the voices and perspectives of older victims help to inform policy decisions and the development of services.
Department of Justice along with NI Policing Board, via a Joint Committee, provides funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which are statutory stand-alone bodies that engage with their local communities to identify and help address local community safety concerns.
Some PCSP initiatives that can help support older people, rather than specifically address elder abuse, include:
the provision of call blocking schemes via Truecall telephone devices installed to stop nuisance calls and scammers;
commissioning of services through Ageing Well which provides support to older people to reduce their fear of crime and vulnerability to crime, particularly those older people who may be alone and/or infirm;
projects which raise awareness among older people of the risks of bogus callers, internet and telephone fraud, and other relevant issues which older people and/or their carers might identify.
The Executive are committed to working together to support all Ministers to deliver the priorities as laid out in the Programme for Government priorities and to support Departments in their own initiatives going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023866%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431223"}},{"id":"431222","reference":"AQW 23865/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-05","answerBy":"2025-03-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of individuals aged 55 and over who have been referred for safeguarding interventions in each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023865%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431222"}},{"id":"431221","reference":"AQW 23864/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-05","answerBy":"2025-03-21","answered":"2025-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has undertaken any reviews or consultations on whether the current consent-based safeguarding system adequately protects individuals who may be experiencing abuse.","answerText":"Following the widely publicised safeguarding failings at Muckamore Abbey Hospital and Dunmurry Manor Care Home, it was recognised that there was a need to review and improve the Department’s Adult Safeguarding policy. In September 2020, following the independent review into the situation at Muckamore Abbey Hospital, Minister Swann announced his intention to legislate, to provide a statutory footing to the policy around Adult Safeguarding. The Adult Protection Bill would introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin in the adult protection process and would bring Northern Ireland in line with other parts of the UK where such legislation already exists.\n\nA consultation on the proposed Adult Protection Bill ran for a period of 16 weeks from 17 December 2020 to 8 April 2021 where during this time there was 19 stakeholder sessions and 89 responses received. Officials from the Department of Health received, on 21 October 2021, Executive approval to start drafting.\n\nMy Department is developing an Adult Protection Bill which will introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin the adult protection process. The Adult Protection Bill will see the introduction of a number of duties and powers to assist in inquiries and the protection of all adults at risk from harm, including those experiencing financial abuse. The Adult Protection Bill will also see the introduction of new offences regarding ill-treatment and neglect.\n\nIt is intended that the Adult Protection Bill will be introduced to the Assembly during this mandate.","answerHtml":"Following the widely publicised safeguarding failings at Muckamore Abbey Hospital and Dunmurry Manor Care Home, it was recognised that there was a need to review and improve the Department’s Adult Safeguarding policy. In September 2020, following the independent review into the situation at Muckamore Abbey Hospital, Minister Swann announced his intention to legislate, to provide a statutory footing to the policy around Adult Safeguarding. The Adult Protection Bill would introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin in the adult protection process and would bring Northern Ireland in line with other parts of the UK where such legislation already exists.
A consultation on the proposed Adult Protection Bill ran for a period of 16 weeks from 17 December 2020 to 8 April 2021 where during this time there was 19 stakeholder sessions and 89 responses received. Officials from the Department of Health received, on 21 October 2021, Executive approval to start drafting.
My Department is developing an Adult Protection Bill which will introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin the adult protection process. The Adult Protection Bill will see the introduction of a number of duties and powers to assist in inquiries and the protection of all adults at risk from harm, including those experiencing financial abuse. The Adult Protection Bill will also see the introduction of new offences regarding ill-treatment and neglect.
It is intended that the Adult Protection Bill will be introduced to the Assembly during this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023864%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431221"}},{"id":"431220","reference":"AQW 23863/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-05","answerBy":"2025-03-21","answered":"2025-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to raise public awareness of the different forms of abuse that older people can experience, such as financial, physical, emotional and neglect.","answerText":"My Department is developing an Adult Protection Bill which will introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin the adult protection process. The Adult Protection Bill will see the introduction of a number of duties and powers to assist in inquiries and the protection of all adults at risk from harm, including those experiencing financial abuse. The Adult Protection Bill will also see the introduction of new offences regarding ill-treatment and neglect.\n\nFurthermore, questions on the issue of safeguarding are being developed for the Health Survey and have already appeared in the Northern Ireland Life and Times survey, which will help raise awareness and gauge public opinion.\n\nThe new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031 was formally launched on 25th September. The Strategy recognises that anyone can be a victim of domestic and/or sexual abuse regardless of their age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or background.\n\nThe Strategy also recognises that while anyone can experience domestic and/or sexual abuse, some people may be more at risk or may face additional barriers in accessing services and will therefore require specialist support and intervention. For example, older people face a number of additional barriers to seeking support including generational views about faith, loyalty, shame and guilt. In some cases, they may find it difficult to report if the person is abusing them is also their carer or they are financially dependent on them.\n\nThe Strategy acknowledges the importance of identifying and responding to the intersectional needs of victims, to both prevent abuse from happening and to provide appropriate support in the event that it does occur.\n\nHealth and Social Care staff are provided with training to identify and respond effectively to domestic abuse. Staff are supported to consider and discuss the contexts in which domestic abuse can manifest, dispel myths about where domestic abuse can occur and who can experience domestic abuse. This will include acknowledgement of the safety strategies and resilience that older victims develop over time, increasing physical and social dependencies of both the victim and the alleged perpetrator, family and social perception/support or lack of and isolation. Training supports staff to be aware and recognise those potentially more vulnerable groups of people that could be at higher risk of abuse, such as those with reduced mental or physical capacity.\n\nThe Department of Health fund the 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline jointly with the Department for Communities and the Department of Justice. The Helpline designed and executed a comprehensive digital and offline campaign targeting individuals aged 55+ who may be experiencing abusive relationships. The campaign, which ran from 17th June to 18th August 2024, involved a combination of bus and radio advertisements, social media ads, and a press release, all implemented with joint branding between the DSA Helpline and Hourglass. Results from the campaign have been promising and continue to be monitored. In addition, the Helpline have included a new page on their website entitled ‘What is Elder Abuse?’ which in Quarter 2 of 2024/25 was the most accessed page of the website.\n\nThe five Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) have Local Adult Safeguarding Partnerships (LASPs) that have held events to promote adult safeguarding awareness campaigns. They also support LASP partners who are on their respective groups who promote events or specific campaigns that target, financial, sexual or physical abuse. The HSCTs also ensure that any campaigns lead by DoJ colleagues are shared with key stakeholders and partners who are involved in Adult Safeguarding. The Adult Safeguarding Team, within SPPG, will be asking the x5 LASPs in the HSCTs this year to hold specific events promoting ASG awareness raising in each Trust area.\n\nThe Adult Protection Gateway Team in South Eastern Trust (SE Trust) are working in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society and their Local Engagement Partners to target people living with Dementia and they can make their Adult Protection processes more relevant to them if they are the victim of abuse. The SE Trust is also working on a directory of services to help tackle loneliness amongst all service users, including older people. A video relating to adult safeguarding awareness generally and how to report concerns has been shared with each staff member in the SE Trust as well as the SE Trust commissioned services/providers, councils, etc. to share with their staff. The SE Trust have also developed a training module on Challenging Poor Practice which will be rolled out this year to all social care staff in SET and to Nursing and Midwifery staff.","answerHtml":"My Department is developing an Adult Protection Bill which will introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin the adult protection process. The Adult Protection Bill will see the introduction of a number of duties and powers to assist in inquiries and the protection of all adults at risk from harm, including those experiencing financial abuse. The Adult Protection Bill will also see the introduction of new offences regarding ill-treatment and neglect.
Furthermore, questions on the issue of safeguarding are being developed for the Health Survey and have already appeared in the Northern Ireland Life and Times survey, which will help raise awareness and gauge public opinion.
The new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031 was formally launched on 25th September. The Strategy recognises that anyone can be a victim of domestic and/or sexual abuse regardless of their age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or background.
The Strategy also recognises that while anyone can experience domestic and/or sexual abuse, some people may be more at risk or may face additional barriers in accessing services and will therefore require specialist support and intervention. For example, older people face a number of additional barriers to seeking support including generational views about faith, loyalty, shame and guilt. In some cases, they may find it difficult to report if the person is abusing them is also their carer or they are financially dependent on them.
The Strategy acknowledges the importance of identifying and responding to the intersectional needs of victims, to both prevent abuse from happening and to provide appropriate support in the event that it does occur.
Health and Social Care staff are provided with training to identify and respond effectively to domestic abuse. Staff are supported to consider and discuss the contexts in which domestic abuse can manifest, dispel myths about where domestic abuse can occur and who can experience domestic abuse. This will include acknowledgement of the safety strategies and resilience that older victims develop over time, increasing physical and social dependencies of both the victim and the alleged perpetrator, family and social perception/support or lack of and isolation. Training supports staff to be aware and recognise those potentially more vulnerable groups of people that could be at higher risk of abuse, such as those with reduced mental or physical capacity.
The Department of Health fund the 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline jointly with the Department for Communities and the Department of Justice. The Helpline designed and executed a comprehensive digital and offline campaign targeting individuals aged 55+ who may be experiencing abusive relationships. The campaign, which ran from 17th June to 18th August 2024, involved a combination of bus and radio advertisements, social media ads, and a press release, all implemented with joint branding between the DSA Helpline and Hourglass. Results from the campaign have been promising and continue to be monitored. In addition, the Helpline have included a new page on their website entitled ‘What is Elder Abuse?’ which in Quarter 2 of 2024/25 was the most accessed page of the website.
The five Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) have Local Adult Safeguarding Partnerships (LASPs) that have held events to promote adult safeguarding awareness campaigns. They also support LASP partners who are on their respective groups who promote events or specific campaigns that target, financial, sexual or physical abuse. The HSCTs also ensure that any campaigns lead by DoJ colleagues are shared with key stakeholders and partners who are involved in Adult Safeguarding. The Adult Safeguarding Team, within SPPG, will be asking the x5 LASPs in the HSCTs this year to hold specific events promoting ASG awareness raising in each Trust area.
The Adult Protection Gateway Team in South Eastern Trust (SE Trust) are working in partnership with the Alzheimer’s Society and their Local Engagement Partners to target people living with Dementia and they can make their Adult Protection processes more relevant to them if they are the victim of abuse. The SE Trust is also working on a directory of services to help tackle loneliness amongst all service users, including older people. A video relating to adult safeguarding awareness generally and how to report concerns has been shared with each staff member in the SE Trust as well as the SE Trust commissioned services/providers, councils, etc. to share with their staff. The SE Trust have also developed a training module on Challenging Poor Practice which will be rolled out this year to all social care staff in SET and to Nursing and Midwifery staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023863%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431220"}},{"id":"431219","reference":"AQW 23862/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-05","answerBy":"2025-03-21","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department has considered strengthening legislation to ensure enhanced protection for older victims of various forms of abuse, including financial exploitation.","answerText":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031, which is jointly led by my Department and the Department of Health, adopts an inclusive approach, recognising the diversity of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse and their needs.\n\nThe Strategy acknowledges that there will be specific challenges faced by older victims of domestic and sexual abuse and the Strategy’s Expert Reference Group (ERG) includes representation from the organisation ‘Hourglass’ to ensure that the voices and perspectives of older victims help to inform policy decisions and the development of services.\n\nOne of the actions included in the Strategy’s Action Plan is to consider intersectionality and the barriers faced by specific groups (including older people) and then to identify and implement measures to address these, subject to funding. My officials have spoken to Hourglass who have agreed to be involved in this work, in respect of older people.\n\nYou may also be aware that my Department also funds the delivery of a Northern Ireland wide advocacy service, by ASSIST NI, to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse who are engaged with the criminal justice system. ASSIST NI offers a service tailored to the individual needs of each victim, they provide guidance, information, work with other service providers and advocate on victim’s behalf to secure the help and resources they require. Advocates are trained to understand and recognise the barriers faced by specific groups, including older people, and will work with them to provide support that meets their needs.\n\nThe Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 introduced a new domestic abuse offence which criminalises behaviour that is controlling or coercive or amounts to psychological, emotional, technological or financial abuse. It captures patterns of physical and/or psychological abuse by a partner, ex-partner or close family member and covers behaviour that is physically violent, threatening or intimidating.\n\nWhen the new offence was introduced, my Department launched a public awareness campaign including a series of online videos detailing the various types of domestic abuse; financial abuse is depicted in these powerful videos and they sign post victims on how to report the abuse. Additional advice on the domestic abuse offence and the videos remains available on the NI Direct website under the title ‘Still Abuse’.\n\nMy Department also helps to address harm and vulnerability caused by fraud and supports partnership working to tackle the threat of scams and financial exploitation through its membership of the ScamwiseNI Partnership, which is chaired by the PSNI. The Partnership was established eight years ago and now has over 45 partners who work collaboratively to provide valuable information and crucial advice to keep the public informed, aware and vigilant. ScamwiseNI's most recent, six-month campaign, featured radio and newspaper advertisements, along with posters in public transport spaces, including bus shelters and inside buses. Its aim was to help empower older people and those who are not regularly online to stay safe against scammers.\n\nI am also aware that the draft Adult Protection Bill, which is being developed by the Department of Health, is also likely to make provision that may help with addressing financial abuse.","answerHtml":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031, which is jointly led by my Department and the Department of Health, adopts an inclusive approach, recognising the diversity of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse and their needs.
The Strategy acknowledges that there will be specific challenges faced by older victims of domestic and sexual abuse and the Strategy’s Expert Reference Group (ERG) includes representation from the organisation ‘Hourglass’ to ensure that the voices and perspectives of older victims help to inform policy decisions and the development of services.
One of the actions included in the Strategy’s Action Plan is to consider intersectionality and the barriers faced by specific groups (including older people) and then to identify and implement measures to address these, subject to funding. My officials have spoken to Hourglass who have agreed to be involved in this work, in respect of older people.
You may also be aware that my Department also funds the delivery of a Northern Ireland wide advocacy service, by ASSIST NI, to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse who are engaged with the criminal justice system. ASSIST NI offers a service tailored to the individual needs of each victim, they provide guidance, information, work with other service providers and advocate on victim’s behalf to secure the help and resources they require. Advocates are trained to understand and recognise the barriers faced by specific groups, including older people, and will work with them to provide support that meets their needs.
The Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 introduced a new domestic abuse offence which criminalises behaviour that is controlling or coercive or amounts to psychological, emotional, technological or financial abuse. It captures patterns of physical and/or psychological abuse by a partner, ex-partner or close family member and covers behaviour that is physically violent, threatening or intimidating.
When the new offence was introduced, my Department launched a public awareness campaign including a series of online videos detailing the various types of domestic abuse; financial abuse is depicted in these powerful videos and they sign post victims on how to report the abuse. Additional advice on the domestic abuse offence and the videos remains available on the NI Direct website under the title ‘Still Abuse’.
My Department also helps to address harm and vulnerability caused by fraud and supports partnership working to tackle the threat of scams and financial exploitation through its membership of the ScamwiseNI Partnership, which is chaired by the PSNI. The Partnership was established eight years ago and now has over 45 partners who work collaboratively to provide valuable information and crucial advice to keep the public informed, aware and vigilant. ScamwiseNI's most recent, six-month campaign, featured radio and newspaper advertisements, along with posters in public transport spaces, including bus shelters and inside buses. Its aim was to help empower older people and those who are not regularly online to stay safe against scammers.
I am also aware that the draft Adult Protection Bill, which is being developed by the Department of Health, is also likely to make provision that may help with addressing financial abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023862%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431219","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431219"}},{"id":"430992","reference":"AQW 23761/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-04","answerBy":"2025-03-20","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure the General Dental Contract is reformed and fully implemented by the end of the 2022-2027 mandate to prevent the movement of practitioners towards private care.","answerText":"My Department’s Health and Social Care NI three-year plan included a commitment to develop an action plan and programme of work for the reform of General Dental Services by April 2027.\n\nThe first step on this path is to determine the real cost of providing dental services so that realistic options for reform of the service can be developed.\n\nTo achieve that I have approved the commissioning of a cost-of-service review to be completed in 2025/26. The outworking of the review will inform the next steps, and it would be counterproductive to pre-empt the conclusion of the review by predetermining those next steps.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Health and Social Care NI three-year plan included a commitment to develop an action plan and programme of work for the reform of General Dental Services by April 2027.
The first step on this path is to determine the real cost of providing dental services so that realistic options for reform of the service can be developed.
To achieve that I have approved the commissioning of a cost-of-service review to be completed in 2025/26. The outworking of the review will inform the next steps, and it would be counterproductive to pre-empt the conclusion of the review by predetermining those next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023761%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430992"}},{"id":"430991","reference":"AQW 23760/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-04","answerBy":"2025-03-20","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures being taken to implement the recommendations of the Oral Health Improvement Plans for (i) children; and (ii) the elderly.","answerText":"The recommendations in the Children’s and Older Persons Improvement Plans are ambitious and funding these will be a significant challenge in the current financial climate.\n\n(i) Recent initiatives such as the re-introduction of the Enhanced Child Examination in general dental practice have been underpinned by the recommendations made in the Child Oral Health Improvement Plan. I am committed to improving the oral health of our population and will continue to seek opportunities for this which will be guided by these recommendations.\n\nI am very pleased that oral health has been included in the path finder of my Live Better Initiative in the North West and I look forward to the lessons learned from this initiative to inform our longer term priorities. Empowering children and their families to improve oral health is key to reducing oral health inequalities.\n\n(ii) I am aware that our Community Dental Service teams across Northern Ireland are currently reviewing how best they can assess the oral health of older people in care homes and work with care home staff to improve the oral health of this vulnerable population. This reflects recommendations in the Older Persons Oral Health Improvement Plan.\n\nAny future work related to the General Dental Services (GDS) contract will take into consideration how best practices can be supported to provide care for older persons retaining natural teeth into later life.","answerHtml":"The recommendations in the Children’s and Older Persons Improvement Plans are ambitious and funding these will be a significant challenge in the current financial climate.
(i) Recent initiatives such as the re-introduction of the Enhanced Child Examination in general dental practice have been underpinned by the recommendations made in the Child Oral Health Improvement Plan. I am committed to improving the oral health of our population and will continue to seek opportunities for this which will be guided by these recommendations.
I am very pleased that oral health has been included in the path finder of my Live Better Initiative in the North West and I look forward to the lessons learned from this initiative to inform our longer term priorities. Empowering children and their families to improve oral health is key to reducing oral health inequalities.
(ii) I am aware that our Community Dental Service teams across Northern Ireland are currently reviewing how best they can assess the oral health of older people in care homes and work with care home staff to improve the oral health of this vulnerable population. This reflects recommendations in the Older Persons Oral Health Improvement Plan.
Any future work related to the General Dental Services (GDS) contract will take into consideration how best practices can be supported to provide care for older persons retaining natural teeth into later life.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023760%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430991"}},{"id":"430990","reference":"AQW 23759/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-04","answerBy":"2025-03-20","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any actions his Department has considered to improve access to dental care for vulnerable populations, including children requiring general anaesthetic extractions and elderly patients in care homes.","answerText":"Children, young people and adults receive dental care across a range of settings in Northern Ireland: General Dental Services (GDS), Community Dental Services (CDS), and the Hospital Dental Services (HDS).\n\nAll five Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland provide CDS, which deals with patients who require standard dental treatments, but are not suitable to receive their care in General Dental practice. In addition to referrals from the GDS, the CDS also undertake regular screening sessions of day care facilities for patients with physical, sensory and learning disabilities and care homes for older persons. Through this process CDS identify those individuals who require follow-up treatment.\n\nMany child patients referred into the CDS only require the service for one-off specialist or complex interceptive procedures, such as General Anaesthetic (GA). Regionally, in 2023-24, the number of children receiving dental treatment under GA was approximately 90% of the 2019-20 figure. In 2023-24, the CDS saw over 3,400 children for extractions under GA.\n\nAll dental services were markedly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with many services stood or scaled down, and services are still in recovery. GA waiting lists in all Trusts were severely impacted and access for CDS staff to theatre lists has still not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Reductions in the number of patients waiting for a GA assessment and GA treatment have been made through prioritisation of staff for GA aspects of the CDS service as well as proactive utilisation of any available HSC Trust lists. Attempts are also being made to maximise the use of alternatives to GA.\n\nDental access enhancement initiatives which my Department has funded in 2024/25 include £1m for an Enhanced Child Examination Scheme, £4.3m for a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for priority treatments, and £3.9m for a Dental Access Scheme for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients. Approximately 500 patients per week are currently seen under the Dental Access Scheme.\n\nA Dental Survey of care home residents, commissioned by my Department, is currently underway. The results of the survey will help inform the design of future dental services.","answerHtml":"Children, young people and adults receive dental care across a range of settings in Northern Ireland: General Dental Services (GDS), Community Dental Services (CDS), and the Hospital Dental Services (HDS).
All five Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland provide CDS, which deals with patients who require standard dental treatments, but are not suitable to receive their care in General Dental practice. In addition to referrals from the GDS, the CDS also undertake regular screening sessions of day care facilities for patients with physical, sensory and learning disabilities and care homes for older persons. Through this process CDS identify those individuals who require follow-up treatment.
Many child patients referred into the CDS only require the service for one-off specialist or complex interceptive procedures, such as General Anaesthetic (GA). Regionally, in 2023-24, the number of children receiving dental treatment under GA was approximately 90% of the 2019-20 figure. In 2023-24, the CDS saw over 3,400 children for extractions under GA.
All dental services were markedly affected by the Covid-19 pandemic, with many services stood or scaled down, and services are still in recovery. GA waiting lists in all Trusts were severely impacted and access for CDS staff to theatre lists has still not returned to pre-pandemic levels. Reductions in the number of patients waiting for a GA assessment and GA treatment have been made through prioritisation of staff for GA aspects of the CDS service as well as proactive utilisation of any available HSC Trust lists. Attempts are also being made to maximise the use of alternatives to GA.
Dental access enhancement initiatives which my Department has funded in 2024/25 include £1m for an Enhanced Child Examination Scheme, £4.3m for a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for priority treatments, and £3.9m for a Dental Access Scheme for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients. Approximately 500 patients per week are currently seen under the Dental Access Scheme.
A Dental Survey of care home residents, commissioned by my Department, is currently underway. The results of the survey will help inform the design of future dental services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023759%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430990"}},{"id":"430989","reference":"AQW 23758/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-04","answerBy":"2025-03-20","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the measures his Department is taking to ensure that any financial interventions provide sustainable long-term support rather than short-term relief.","answerText":"In Health our primary goal is to direct all available funding to the areas of greatest need. The current financial position can sometimes of necessity mean that a less attractive option needs to be implemented due to affordability constraints.\n\nHowever, the Department has process in place requiring that all funding decisions are appraised to ensure they provide value for money over the status quo whether they are providing long-term support or short-term relief.","answerHtml":"In Health our primary goal is to direct all available funding to the areas of greatest need. The current financial position can sometimes of necessity mean that a less attractive option needs to be implemented due to affordability constraints.
However, the Department has process in place requiring that all funding decisions are appraised to ensure they provide value for money over the status quo whether they are providing long-term support or short-term relief.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023758%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430989"}},{"id":"430988","reference":"AQW 23757/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-04","answerBy":"2025-03-20","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any proposals under consideration to top-up fees for NHS dental services in the 2025-26 financial year, particularly in relation to incentivising care for children.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023757%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430988"}},{"id":"430615","reference":"AQW 23678/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current waiting times for endometriosis diagnosis and treatment, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) any steps his Department is taking to reduce diagnostic delays for endometriosis.","answerText":"Assessment, diagnosis and treatment for Endometriosis is part of General Gynaecology waiting times, so Trusts are unable to currently provide a specific waiting time for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis specifically. Trust have provided the following response to this question.\n\nThe Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is unable to distinguish which patients are requiring an endometriosis diagnosis as this information is not recorded on the hospital systems. The Trust has an Endometriosis Clinic and could provide average waiting times for new appointments at this clinic although not all patients diagnosed with Endometriosis attend this clinic as many also attend general gynaecology clinics.\n\nWithin the Southern Health and Social Care Trust the waiting time for endometriosis is unknown as this is not coded at triage.\n\nIn the South Eastern Trust, they are unable to extrapolate individual waiting times for women with endometriosis, however referrals are triaged as urgent and time dependent.\n\nThe Northern Trust are not able to provide a response to this, as the information requested is not available from their systems. Women referred for suspected endometriosis or related symptoms are triaged and reviewed within general clinics.\n\nIn Western Trust not all referrals from GPs are for suspected endometriosis in the first instance and in these cases they are triaged for any Gynaecology consultant to see, according to clinical priority.\n\nThe Elective Overnight Stay Centre has been established at the Mater Hospital and this has enabled a reduction in diagnostic delays for endometriosis.\n\nFunding has been made available via DoH/SPPG for Waiting List Initiatives and this has led to extra validation of outpatient and inpatient waiting lists, increase in Multi-Disciplinary Meetings for complex gynaecology/endometriosis which has cleared the backlog of patients awaiting discussion and extra outpatient clinics (especially backlog and telephone review clinics) and inpatient/day case theatre lists.\n\nAfter consultation, women are then referred for diagnostic procedures for definitive diagnosis, and the waiting times for a diagnostic laparoscopy or MRI can also contribute to the wait","answerHtml":"Assessment, diagnosis and treatment for Endometriosis is part of General Gynaecology waiting times, so Trusts are unable to currently provide a specific waiting time for the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis specifically. Trust have provided the following response to this question.
The Belfast Health and Social Care Trust is unable to distinguish which patients are requiring an endometriosis diagnosis as this information is not recorded on the hospital systems. The Trust has an Endometriosis Clinic and could provide average waiting times for new appointments at this clinic although not all patients diagnosed with Endometriosis attend this clinic as many also attend general gynaecology clinics.
Within the Southern Health and Social Care Trust the waiting time for endometriosis is unknown as this is not coded at triage.
In the South Eastern Trust, they are unable to extrapolate individual waiting times for women with endometriosis, however referrals are triaged as urgent and time dependent.
The Northern Trust are not able to provide a response to this, as the information requested is not available from their systems. Women referred for suspected endometriosis or related symptoms are triaged and reviewed within general clinics.
In Western Trust not all referrals from GPs are for suspected endometriosis in the first instance and in these cases they are triaged for any Gynaecology consultant to see, according to clinical priority.
The Elective Overnight Stay Centre has been established at the Mater Hospital and this has enabled a reduction in diagnostic delays for endometriosis.
Funding has been made available via DoH/SPPG for Waiting List Initiatives and this has led to extra validation of outpatient and inpatient waiting lists, increase in Multi-Disciplinary Meetings for complex gynaecology/endometriosis which has cleared the backlog of patients awaiting discussion and extra outpatient clinics (especially backlog and telephone review clinics) and inpatient/day case theatre lists.
After consultation, women are then referred for diagnostic procedures for definitive diagnosis, and the waiting times for a diagnostic laparoscopy or MRI can also contribute to the wait
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023678%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430615","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430615"}},{"id":"430614","reference":"AQW 23677/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department ensures that endometriosis patients receive clear and timely communication in relation to their condition, treatment options and waiting times.","answerText":"In each of the Trusts, waiting times fluctuate depending on the specific needs of each patient and the next step in their pathway. The next steps for the patient’s treatment pathway may be conservative management, further investigations or to be added to the inpatient or day case waiting list for surgical treatment.\n\nIn Belfast Trust patients are provided with patient information leaflets in relation to their condition. Options for onward treatment is discussed as part of the consent process at outpatient appointment. Waiting times fluctuate depending on the specific needs of each patient and the next step in their pathway, e.g., conservative management, investigations or to inpatient/day case waiting list.\n\nPatients who are new referrals for an outpatient appointment are advised if their case has been added as urgent/routine and approximate waiting times can be obtained from Waiting list offices in Belfast Trust. Patients for review are informed when they should expect their clinically indicated review appointment and those added to Inpatient Waiting Lists are advised of the approximate length of wait.\n\nCurrently in Southern Trust, endometriosis patients are given information at the time of their diagnosis by consultant overseeing their care.\n\nIn South Eastern Trust information leaflets are provided on third sector support.\n\nIn Northern Trust information available from Endometriosis UK is used in gynaecology clinics as a point of reference for patient information. Treatment options are patient specific and individual to each woman’s condition and management plan.\n\nIn Western Trust patients can contact the Endometriosis Nurse Specialist in relation any queries to their condition, treatment options and waiting times","answerHtml":"In each of the Trusts, waiting times fluctuate depending on the specific needs of each patient and the next step in their pathway. The next steps for the patient’s treatment pathway may be conservative management, further investigations or to be added to the inpatient or day case waiting list for surgical treatment.
In Belfast Trust patients are provided with patient information leaflets in relation to their condition. Options for onward treatment is discussed as part of the consent process at outpatient appointment. Waiting times fluctuate depending on the specific needs of each patient and the next step in their pathway, e.g., conservative management, investigations or to inpatient/day case waiting list.
Patients who are new referrals for an outpatient appointment are advised if their case has been added as urgent/routine and approximate waiting times can be obtained from Waiting list offices in Belfast Trust. Patients for review are informed when they should expect their clinically indicated review appointment and those added to Inpatient Waiting Lists are advised of the approximate length of wait.
Currently in Southern Trust, endometriosis patients are given information at the time of their diagnosis by consultant overseeing their care.
In South Eastern Trust information leaflets are provided on third sector support.
In Northern Trust information available from Endometriosis UK is used in gynaecology clinics as a point of reference for patient information. Treatment options are patient specific and individual to each woman’s condition and management plan.
In Western Trust patients can contact the Endometriosis Nurse Specialist in relation any queries to their condition, treatment options and waiting times
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023677%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430614","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430614"}},{"id":"430613","reference":"AQW 23676/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any work being undertaken to improve GP awareness and training on recognising the symptoms of endometriosis.","answerText":"My Department does not hold lists or information regarding GPs and their training. As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards.\n\nAll doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including endometriosis.\n\nGPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.\n\nMy Department have endorsed the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis. Last year the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) published A Long and Painful Road, a review of the quality of care provided to adult patients diagnosed with endometriosis and this was shared with all GP practices.\n\nI have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.\n\nGPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit and allocation for this service for 2024/25 is £50.5k. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.\n\nPractice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of these PBL is to allow dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GP’s and their Practice Staff.\n\nProvision of PBL was previously developed by the then HSCB for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 SPPG commission the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. PBL is facilitated by local GP Federation Support Units and £178k has been allocated for PBL for the 24/25 year. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold lists or information regarding GPs and their training. As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards.
All doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including endometriosis.
GPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.
My Department have endorsed the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines on the diagnosis and management of endometriosis. Last year the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) published A Long and Painful Road, a review of the quality of care provided to adult patients diagnosed with endometriosis and this was shared with all GP practices.
I have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.
GPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit and allocation for this service for 2024/25 is £50.5k. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.
Practice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of these PBL is to allow dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GP’s and their Practice Staff.
Provision of PBL was previously developed by the then HSCB for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 SPPG commission the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. PBL is facilitated by local GP Federation Support Units and £178k has been allocated for PBL for the 24/25 year. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023676%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430613","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430613"}},{"id":"430612","reference":"AQW 23675/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any psychological and emotional support services available for those with a diagnosis of endometriosis.","answerText":"As you may be aware, my Department has published the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology – this signals our commitment to working towards improving services for women which includes those suffering from endometriosis.\n\nThe GIRFT report has identified 20 general recommendations to improve services through coordinated regional action, as well as a list of specific recommendations for each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust to take forward. These recommendations have been accepted in principle with a view to implementing the required improvements as soon as it is feasible; however, it is acknowledged that some recommendations will require additional funding and lead-in time to deliver fully.\n\nA Task and Finish Group to develop and implement an approved pathway for endometriosis has been established, and work is underway with key stakeholders to provide a holistic improved pathway for women. Trusts have advised that their current services have the following psychological and emotional support services available for those with a diagnosis of endometriosis.\n\nBelfast Trust have an Endometriosis Clinical Nurse Specialist who can provide emotional support for women diagnosed with endometriosis. Patients can be referred to general psychological and pain services for further support although it is recognised that these services also have significant waiting time.\n\nIn Southern Trust there is currently no dedicated psychological and emotional support services available for those with a diagnosis of endometriosis.\n\nIn South Eastern Trust there is no dedicated psychology service for women suffering from endometriosis. There is however access to the chronic pain team but again this is not a dedicated service.\n\nNorthern Trust does not have any specific or ring-fenced psychological or emotional support services for women with a diagnosis of endometriosis. If indicated, a referral to general psychological services can be made by the attending clinical team.\n\nThe Western Trust would advise that they are not currently commissioned to provide specific psychological support to patient diagnosed with endometriosis. Patients can however contact the Endometriosis Nurse Specialist, who can provide emotional support. The Nurse Specialist can also sign-posted patients to services within the community or back to their GP for community-based support.","answerHtml":"As you may be aware, my Department has published the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology – this signals our commitment to working towards improving services for women which includes those suffering from endometriosis.
The GIRFT report has identified 20 general recommendations to improve services through coordinated regional action, as well as a list of specific recommendations for each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust to take forward. These recommendations have been accepted in principle with a view to implementing the required improvements as soon as it is feasible; however, it is acknowledged that some recommendations will require additional funding and lead-in time to deliver fully.
A Task and Finish Group to develop and implement an approved pathway for endometriosis has been established, and work is underway with key stakeholders to provide a holistic improved pathway for women. Trusts have advised that their current services have the following psychological and emotional support services available for those with a diagnosis of endometriosis.
Belfast Trust have an Endometriosis Clinical Nurse Specialist who can provide emotional support for women diagnosed with endometriosis. Patients can be referred to general psychological and pain services for further support although it is recognised that these services also have significant waiting time.
In Southern Trust there is currently no dedicated psychological and emotional support services available for those with a diagnosis of endometriosis.
In South Eastern Trust there is no dedicated psychology service for women suffering from endometriosis. There is however access to the chronic pain team but again this is not a dedicated service.
Northern Trust does not have any specific or ring-fenced psychological or emotional support services for women with a diagnosis of endometriosis. If indicated, a referral to general psychological services can be made by the attending clinical team.
The Western Trust would advise that they are not currently commissioned to provide specific psychological support to patient diagnosed with endometriosis. Patients can however contact the Endometriosis Nurse Specialist, who can provide emotional support. The Nurse Specialist can also sign-posted patients to services within the community or back to their GP for community-based support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023675%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430612","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430612"}},{"id":"430611","reference":"AQW 23674/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-03-03","answerBy":"2025-03-19","answered":"2025-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of consultant gynaecologists that have specialist training in advanced endometriosis treatment.","answerText":"All HSC Trusts provide care for endometriosis, as women referred will be under the care of a consultant gynaecologist. The service model for endometriosis further recognises the impact of this condition on the health and well-being of women. The basis of the model is holistic management for the needs of women undergoing diagnosis and treatment by delivering care through a specialist multidisciplinary team best able to provide responsive, appropriate care throughout the patient journey. Each member of the team is functioning as a specialist from within their discipline whether as a consultant, nurse, or other professional lead in delivering care.\n\nBelfast Trust have two consultants who have a special interest in endometriosis.\n\nIn the Southern Health and Social Care Trust there are no consultants with specialist training in advanced endometriosis treatment.\n\nSouth Eastern Trust has 4 gynaecologists with specialist training in endometriosis treatment and access to a consultant surgeon with a special interest who often performs joint cases with gynaecologists.\n\nNorthern Trust do not have any consultant gynaecologists who have specialist training in advanced endometriosis treatment.\n\nThe Western Trust currently has two Consultants with specialist training in endometriosis.","answerHtml":"All HSC Trusts provide care for endometriosis, as women referred will be under the care of a consultant gynaecologist. The service model for endometriosis further recognises the impact of this condition on the health and well-being of women. The basis of the model is holistic management for the needs of women undergoing diagnosis and treatment by delivering care through a specialist multidisciplinary team best able to provide responsive, appropriate care throughout the patient journey. Each member of the team is functioning as a specialist from within their discipline whether as a consultant, nurse, or other professional lead in delivering care.
Belfast Trust have two consultants who have a special interest in endometriosis.
In the Southern Health and Social Care Trust there are no consultants with specialist training in advanced endometriosis treatment.
South Eastern Trust has 4 gynaecologists with specialist training in endometriosis treatment and access to a consultant surgeon with a special interest who often performs joint cases with gynaecologists.
Northern Trust do not have any consultant gynaecologists who have specialist training in advanced endometriosis treatment.
The Western Trust currently has two Consultants with specialist training in endometriosis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023674%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430611"}},{"id":"430397","reference":"AQW 23601/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-28","answerBy":"2025-03-18","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department has assessed the impact of limited public transport options on older people’s ability to access healthcare in (i) rural areas; and (ii) coastal areas.","answerText":"My Department funds Translink which works to provide public transport services and facilities. This means creating a consistent customer experience for everyone, ensuring accessible public transport for people of all ages and abilities.\n\nRecognising Translink cannot reach all, I also provide funding for community transport which serves both rural and coastal areas, delivering access to transport for those, including older people, who find it difficult to access mainstream public transport. The rural Dial-a-Lift service assists many people in rural and coastal areas to remain connected to their communities and get to the places they need to go including local health care.\n\nMy predecessor, Minister O’Dowd MLA met with Executive colleagues to explore if community transport could support other transport activities across government. This work is being taken forward by officials, including those from Health, with the next meeting of the group scheduled to take place in April 2025.","answerHtml":"My Department funds Translink which works to provide public transport services and facilities. This means creating a consistent customer experience for everyone, ensuring accessible public transport for people of all ages and abilities.
Recognising Translink cannot reach all, I also provide funding for community transport which serves both rural and coastal areas, delivering access to transport for those, including older people, who find it difficult to access mainstream public transport. The rural Dial-a-Lift service assists many people in rural and coastal areas to remain connected to their communities and get to the places they need to go including local health care.
My predecessor, Minister O’Dowd MLA met with Executive colleagues to explore if community transport could support other transport activities across government. This work is being taken forward by officials, including those from Health, with the next meeting of the group scheduled to take place in April 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023601%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430397","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430397"}},{"id":"430396","reference":"AQW 23600/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-28","answerBy":"2025-03-18","answered":"2025-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans her Department has to improve (i) rural; and (ii) coastal transport options for older people.","answerText":"My Department funds Translink which works to provide public transport services and facilities. This means creating a consistent customer experience for everyone, ensuring accessible public transport for people of all ages and abilities.\n\nRecognising that Translink cannot reach every person, I also provide funding to community transport which also serves both rural and coastal areas, delivering access to transport for those, including older people, who find it difficult to access mainstream public transport. The rural Dial-a-Lift service assists many people in rural and coastal areas to remain connected to their communities and get to the places they need to go locally.","answerHtml":"My Department funds Translink which works to provide public transport services and facilities. This means creating a consistent customer experience for everyone, ensuring accessible public transport for people of all ages and abilities.
Recognising that Translink cannot reach every person, I also provide funding to community transport which also serves both rural and coastal areas, delivering access to transport for those, including older people, who find it difficult to access mainstream public transport. The rural Dial-a-Lift service assists many people in rural and coastal areas to remain connected to their communities and get to the places they need to go locally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023600%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430396"}},{"id":"430395","reference":"AQW 23599/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-28","answerBy":"2025-03-18","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures his Department is taking to address the shortage of domiciliary care workers in (i) rural areas; and (ii) coastal areas.","answerText":"The issue of shortage of homecare (domiciliary care) workers in rural areas is largely because of two things: Either there are none or few people who live in this area that are interested in applying for work in this field or because provider organisations are not willing to travel to rural areas. The latter can be for a number of reasons, such as: some providers do not pay a travel allowance; some providers can find delivery of packages of care economically unviable and may choose packages of care in urban areas where the travel distance between calls is less and therefore more profitable; some care workers do not have a car or indicate a preference to work only in a specific area(s).\n\nOne of the HSC Trusts are trialling paying an enhanced rate for rural areas to encourage providers to pick up these calls. This is at an early stage, but results are positive so far. Another Trust is hoping to enhance their team profile in a very rural part of Fermanagh where there is a high level of unmet need to include a reablement focus to ensure people have an opportunity to reach their full potential and therefore may not need a long-term homecare package.\n\nIt is hoped that the introduction of the real living wage for homecare workers will attract more staff into this area of work.\n\nThe issues referenced above would be similar for coastal areas.","answerHtml":"The issue of shortage of homecare (domiciliary care) workers in rural areas is largely because of two things: Either there are none or few people who live in this area that are interested in applying for work in this field or because provider organisations are not willing to travel to rural areas. The latter can be for a number of reasons, such as: some providers do not pay a travel allowance; some providers can find delivery of packages of care economically unviable and may choose packages of care in urban areas where the travel distance between calls is less and therefore more profitable; some care workers do not have a car or indicate a preference to work only in a specific area(s).
One of the HSC Trusts are trialling paying an enhanced rate for rural areas to encourage providers to pick up these calls. This is at an early stage, but results are positive so far. Another Trust is hoping to enhance their team profile in a very rural part of Fermanagh where there is a high level of unmet need to include a reablement focus to ensure people have an opportunity to reach their full potential and therefore may not need a long-term homecare package.
It is hoped that the introduction of the real living wage for homecare workers will attract more staff into this area of work.
The issues referenced above would be similar for coastal areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023599%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430395","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430395"}},{"id":"430394","reference":"AQW 23598/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-28","answerBy":"2025-03-18","answered":"2025-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to improve access to social housing for older people in (i) rural areas; and (ii) coastal areas.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“There are four categories of accommodation for older people - Categories 1,2,3 & 4.\n\nThe main category in the delivery of new build social housing is Category 1 ‘Cat 1’. This is self-contained accommodation for more active older people, which may include an element of scheme supervisor support and/or additional communal facilities (active elderly).\n\nA summary of the current Social Housing Development Programme delivery on ‘Cat 1’ accommodation is detailed below.\n\n(i) Rural Areas\n\nThere are 14 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ Social Housing Units Completed in 2022/23 - 2024/25.\n\nThere are currently 10 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units under construction.\n\nThere are 36 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 – 2027/28.\n\n(ii) Coastal Areas\n\nThere are 417 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ Social Housing Units Completed in 2022/23 - 2024/25. 57 of these units completed in 2024/25.\n\nThere are currently 486 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units under construction.\n\nThere are 246 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 – 2027/28.\n\nProgrammed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.\n\nPlease note that ‘Older People’ applicants are also eligible to occupy general needs units”.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“There are four categories of accommodation for older people - Categories 1,2,3 & 4.
The main category in the delivery of new build social housing is Category 1 ‘Cat 1’. This is self-contained accommodation for more active older people, which may include an element of scheme supervisor support and/or additional communal facilities (active elderly).
A summary of the current Social Housing Development Programme delivery on ‘Cat 1’ accommodation is detailed below.
(i) Rural Areas
There are 14 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ Social Housing Units Completed in 2022/23 - 2024/25.
There are currently 10 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units under construction.
There are 36 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 – 2027/28.
(ii) Coastal Areas
There are 417 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ Social Housing Units Completed in 2022/23 - 2024/25. 57 of these units completed in 2024/25.
There are currently 486 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units under construction.
There are 246 ‘active elderly – cat 1’ social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 – 2027/28.
Programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.
Please note that ‘Older People’ applicants are also eligible to occupy general needs units”.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023598%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430394","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430394"}},{"id":"430393","reference":"AQW 23597/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-28","answerBy":"2025-03-18","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps his Department is taking to improve mental health services for older people in (i) rural areas; and (ii) coastal areas.","answerText":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 launched in June 2021 sets the vision and future strategic direction for mental health services in Northern Ireland over the next decade.\n\nThis strategy is for all people of Northern Ireland regardless of their geographical location. Everyone in Northern Ireland is expected to benefit from this strategy as it is a holistic societal approach to mental health and wellbeing with a whole life approach to ownership.\n\nAction 1 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to increase public awareness of the distinction between mental wellbeing, mental ill health and mental illness, encouraging public understanding and acceptance of how life can impact upon mental wellbeing, and recognition of the signs of mental ill health and mental illness.\n\nAction 2 of the Mental health Strategy commits to create an action plan for promoting mental health through early intervention and prevention, with year on year actions covering a whole life approach, reaching from infancy to older age. The action plan must consider groups disproportionally affected by mental ill health who often struggle to access early intervention services and seek to reduce stigma associated with mental ill health.\n\nAction 31 of the strategy is to, “Develop a regional mental health service, operating across the five HSC Trusts, with regional professional leadership that is responsible for consistency in service delivery and development”. This is to be achieved not by changing organisational boundaries but by ensuring there are structures in place to deliver regional consistency, quality and access across Northern Ireland.\n\nImplementing the new regional crisis service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, as set out in Action 27: Create a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service that is fully integrated in mental health services and which will help and support for persons in mental health or suicidal crisis.\n\nWork in this area is progressing as a lifespan approach ensuring an equitable crisis response service in all geographical areas of Northern Ireland.\n\nIt is co-produced with significant engagement across a broad range of stakeholders including people with lived experience as service users and as carers. It sets out the structures and arrangements necessary for a Regional Mental Health Service encompassing Trusts’ adult mental health services, primary care and services delivered by community and voluntary sector partners. CAMHS and Mental Health Services for Older People managed care networks will link in as part of the arrangements for a regional mental health service supporting an overall life span approach.\n\nThe Strategy is person centred, takes a whole life approach and a whole system focus and the key aim is to ensure long term improved outcomes for people’s mental health.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 launched in June 2021 sets the vision and future strategic direction for mental health services in Northern Ireland over the next decade.
This strategy is for all people of Northern Ireland regardless of their geographical location. Everyone in Northern Ireland is expected to benefit from this strategy as it is a holistic societal approach to mental health and wellbeing with a whole life approach to ownership.
Action 1 of the Mental Health Strategy commits to increase public awareness of the distinction between mental wellbeing, mental ill health and mental illness, encouraging public understanding and acceptance of how life can impact upon mental wellbeing, and recognition of the signs of mental ill health and mental illness.
Action 2 of the Mental health Strategy commits to create an action plan for promoting mental health through early intervention and prevention, with year on year actions covering a whole life approach, reaching from infancy to older age. The action plan must consider groups disproportionally affected by mental ill health who often struggle to access early intervention services and seek to reduce stigma associated with mental ill health.
Action 31 of the strategy is to, “Develop a regional mental health service, operating across the five HSC Trusts, with regional professional leadership that is responsible for consistency in service delivery and development”. This is to be achieved not by changing organisational boundaries but by ensuring there are structures in place to deliver regional consistency, quality and access across Northern Ireland.
Implementing the new regional crisis service is a commitment in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, as set out in Action 27: Create a Regional Mental Health Crisis Service that is fully integrated in mental health services and which will help and support for persons in mental health or suicidal crisis.
Work in this area is progressing as a lifespan approach ensuring an equitable crisis response service in all geographical areas of Northern Ireland.
It is co-produced with significant engagement across a broad range of stakeholders including people with lived experience as service users and as carers. It sets out the structures and arrangements necessary for a Regional Mental Health Service encompassing Trusts’ adult mental health services, primary care and services delivered by community and voluntary sector partners. CAMHS and Mental Health Services for Older People managed care networks will link in as part of the arrangements for a regional mental health service supporting an overall life span approach.
The Strategy is person centred, takes a whole life approach and a whole system focus and the key aim is to ensure long term improved outcomes for people’s mental health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023597%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430393"}},{"id":"430201","reference":"AQW 23515/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-27","answerBy":"2025-03-14","answered":"2025-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether his Department has considered releasing additional funding to each Department to mitigate the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers' National Insurance contributions.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nI appreciate that departments are facing additional pressures as a result of the British Government’s decision to increase employers National Insurance Contributions from April 2025.\n\nThe Treasury has advised that the Executive will receive Barnett consequentials on the additional funding provided to Whitehall departments for the increased costs.\n\nThese will not be confirmed until Westminster Main Estimates, which usually conclude around June. Therefore, this funding will be allocated to departments as part of the June Monitoring round.\n\nHowever, our current planning assumption, informed by engagement with the Treasury is that the Barnett Consequentials will fall far short of the pressures identified by departments. I have raised this with the chief Secretary to the Treasury.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
I appreciate that departments are facing additional pressures as a result of the British Government’s decision to increase employers National Insurance Contributions from April 2025.
The Treasury has advised that the Executive will receive Barnett consequentials on the additional funding provided to Whitehall departments for the increased costs.
These will not be confirmed until Westminster Main Estimates, which usually conclude around June. Therefore, this funding will be allocated to departments as part of the June Monitoring round.
However, our current planning assumption, informed by engagement with the Treasury is that the Barnett Consequentials will fall far short of the pressures identified by departments. I have raised this with the chief Secretary to the Treasury.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023515%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430201"}},{"id":"430200","reference":"AQW 23514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-27","answerBy":"2025-03-14","answered":"2025-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any measures her Department is putting in place to mitigate the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers' National Insurance contributions on her Department’s budget and operations.","answerText":"It is anticipated that the upcoming increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions (ERNI) will create additional pressures of approximately £15m for my Department and its Non-Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs). It is not currently anticipated that the increase in the Minimum Wage will lead to significant additional costs.\n\nIt is reasonable to assume that some additional funding will be received in due course from the Executive for ERNI costs. However, this amount has not yet been confirmed by the Department of Finance and is unlikely to cover the full costs.\n\nDecisions on prioritisation and service provision will therefore be required across the Department and its NDPBs to manage the remaining pressures in order to live within the budget allocation. All business areas will be required to implement cost reductions and efficiencies.","answerHtml":"It is anticipated that the upcoming increase in employers’ National Insurance contributions (ERNI) will create additional pressures of approximately £15m for my Department and its Non-Departmental Public Bodies (NDPBs). It is not currently anticipated that the increase in the Minimum Wage will lead to significant additional costs.
It is reasonable to assume that some additional funding will be received in due course from the Executive for ERNI costs. However, this amount has not yet been confirmed by the Department of Finance and is unlikely to cover the full costs.
Decisions on prioritisation and service provision will therefore be required across the Department and its NDPBs to manage the remaining pressures in order to live within the budget allocation. All business areas will be required to implement cost reductions and efficiencies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430200","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430200"}},{"id":"430199","reference":"AQW 23513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-27","answerBy":"2025-03-14","answered":"2025-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measures his Department is putting in place to mitigate the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers' National Insurance contributions on his Department’s budget and operations.","answerText":"To mitigate the impact on my Department's Budget and operations, officials are engaging with DoF on pay pressures and Barnett Consequential due to the Executive for employers’ National Insurance contribution increases.","answerHtml":"To mitigate the impact on my Department's Budget and operations, officials are engaging with DoF on pay pressures and Barnett Consequential due to the Executive for employers’ National Insurance contribution increases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023513%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430199"}},{"id":"430198","reference":"AQW 23512/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-27","answerBy":"2025-03-14","answered":"2025-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any measures his Department is putting in place to mitigate the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers' National Insurance contributions on his Department’s budget and operations.","answerText":"I will consider the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers’ National Insurance contributions alongside all other pay pressures facing the Education sector, when agreeing my Department's 2025-26 resource budget strategy.\n\nIn relation to employers’ National Insurance contributions, the Chancellor to the Exchequer has stated that support will be provided for public sector employers. The actual quantum of funding provided through the Barnett formula will not be confirmed for the Executive, and thereby Northern Ireland departments, until the Westminster Main Estimates process concludes (i.e. usually around June). However, it is anticipated that this additional funding will fall short of the Executive’s pressures and work remains ongoing to seek funding from HM Treasury that meets Northern Ireland’s public sector pressures in full.","answerHtml":"I will consider the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers’ National Insurance contributions alongside all other pay pressures facing the Education sector, when agreeing my Department's 2025-26 resource budget strategy.
In relation to employers’ National Insurance contributions, the Chancellor to the Exchequer has stated that support will be provided for public sector employers. The actual quantum of funding provided through the Barnett formula will not be confirmed for the Executive, and thereby Northern Ireland departments, until the Westminster Main Estimates process concludes (i.e. usually around June). However, it is anticipated that this additional funding will fall short of the Executive’s pressures and work remains ongoing to seek funding from HM Treasury that meets Northern Ireland’s public sector pressures in full.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023512%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430198","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430198"}},{"id":"430197","reference":"AQW 23511/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-27","answerBy":"2025-03-14","answered":"2025-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures his Department is putting in place to mitigate the impact of the upcoming increase in the Minimum Wage and employers' National Insurance contributions on his Department’s budget and operations.","answerText":"My Department anticipates in year funding will be received for the National Insurance increase to cover those staff who are directly employed.\n\nHowever, I recognise that the increase in employer’s National Insurance contributions announced in the Autumn Budget as well as the increase in National Minimum wage will significantly increase the cost-base for Family Health Service and Social Care providers.\n\nCurrently I am not anticipating additional funding will be provided to cover these additional costs, however I have written to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the issue of National Insurance, to urge him to work to ensure the treatment of these providers faced with these cost pressures is equal to our other providers of health and social care.\n\nI’ve also written to the former Finance Minister asking that she also bring her influence to bear on HM Treasury in this regard and I am aware that she has written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in similar terms.\n\nFollowing the announcement of the 2025-26 Draft Budget allocation my department has assessed that we will be facing a significant funding gap in 2025-26 as a result of both inflationary pressures and increased demand.\n\nHowever in recognition of the valuable role played by those providers affected, I will be considering these funding pressures alongside other priorities before I make any final funding decisions.","answerHtml":"My Department anticipates in year funding will be received for the National Insurance increase to cover those staff who are directly employed.
However, I recognise that the increase in employer’s National Insurance contributions announced in the Autumn Budget as well as the increase in National Minimum wage will significantly increase the cost-base for Family Health Service and Social Care providers.
Currently I am not anticipating additional funding will be provided to cover these additional costs, however I have written to the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care on the issue of National Insurance, to urge him to work to ensure the treatment of these providers faced with these cost pressures is equal to our other providers of health and social care.
I’ve also written to the former Finance Minister asking that she also bring her influence to bear on HM Treasury in this regard and I am aware that she has written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury in similar terms.
Following the announcement of the 2025-26 Draft Budget allocation my department has assessed that we will be facing a significant funding gap in 2025-26 as a result of both inflationary pressures and increased demand.
However in recognition of the valuable role played by those providers affected, I will be considering these funding pressures alongside other priorities before I make any final funding decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023511%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430197"}},{"id":"431734","reference":"AQO 1675/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-27","answerBy":"2025-03-10","answered":"2025-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he is committed to making provisions for a cap on school uniforms as part of the School Uniforms (Guidance and Allowances) Bill (NIA Bill 12/22-27).","answerText":"The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Bill which passed second stage on 3 March 2025 contains provisions for a cap on school uniforms.\n\nClause 3 enables a limit – a cap- to be put in place on numbers of branded items. Clause 4 enables a cap to be put in place on the cost of individual items or an entire uniform. The flexibility is built into the Bill for a cap to be on any of these elements or a combination of them.\n\nIn response to the consultation on the policy proposals underpinning the Bill there was a high level of support for a cost control measure and an even higher level of support was expressed for ensuring a competitive market for school uniforms. Open competition is the means by which expert bodies such as the Competition and Markets Authority suggest driving and keeping costs down.\n\nSo, it may be the case that a cap is brought in for a timebound period, or if needed once we see the impact of the statutory guidelines. The important point in relation to the Bill is that the necessary powers are in place via clauses 3 and 4.\n\nThese clauses are drafted to come into operation via commencement orders – this means that further work on the detail of how a cap might operate can be taken forward in parallel with – but without delaying – the implementation of statutory guidelines.","answerHtml":"The School Uniforms (Guidelines and Allowances) Bill which passed second stage on 3 March 2025 contains provisions for a cap on school uniforms.
Clause 3 enables a limit – a cap- to be put in place on numbers of branded items. Clause 4 enables a cap to be put in place on the cost of individual items or an entire uniform. The flexibility is built into the Bill for a cap to be on any of these elements or a combination of them.
In response to the consultation on the policy proposals underpinning the Bill there was a high level of support for a cost control measure and an even higher level of support was expressed for ensuring a competitive market for school uniforms. Open competition is the means by which expert bodies such as the Competition and Markets Authority suggest driving and keeping costs down.
So, it may be the case that a cap is brought in for a timebound period, or if needed once we see the impact of the statutory guidelines. The important point in relation to the Bill is that the necessary powers are in place via clauses 3 and 4.
These clauses are drafted to come into operation via commencement orders – this means that further work on the detail of how a cap might operate can be taken forward in parallel with – but without delaying – the implementation of statutory guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201675%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=431734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=431734"}},{"id":"430073","reference":"AQW 23429/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-26","answerBy":"2025-03-13","answered":"2025-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any measures his Department has put in place to ensure that teachers and school staff are equipped to identify and support pupils who may be struggling with an eating disorder.","answerText":"Eating disorders are primarily a mental health issue which are the responsibility of the Department of Health (DoH). It is important to note that our educational staff are not mental health professionals, however it is essential that settings provide caring, supportive environments for children and young people ensuring that where issues arise these are identified and acted upon at the earliest opportunity.\n\nThe joint Department of Education and DoH ‘Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework’ provides overarching guidance to empower those working in educational settings in the promotion of positive emotional wellbeing and to strengthen self-esteem and resilience in our children and young people. This is underpinned by an investment of over £5m which supports several emotional health and wellbeing projects and services directly to schools and youth services. Details of the Framework and the projects it supports can be found at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/emotional-health-and-wellbeing.","answerHtml":"Eating disorders are primarily a mental health issue which are the responsibility of the Department of Health (DoH). It is important to note that our educational staff are not mental health professionals, however it is essential that settings provide caring, supportive environments for children and young people ensuring that where issues arise these are identified and acted upon at the earliest opportunity.
The joint Department of Education and DoH ‘Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework’ provides overarching guidance to empower those working in educational settings in the promotion of positive emotional wellbeing and to strengthen self-esteem and resilience in our children and young people. This is underpinned by an investment of over £5m which supports several emotional health and wellbeing projects and services directly to schools and youth services. Details of the Framework and the projects it supports can be found at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/emotional-health-and-wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023429%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430073"}},{"id":"430072","reference":"AQW 23428/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-26","answerBy":"2025-03-13","answered":"2025-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any action his Department is taking to improve awareness and training for GPs and frontline healthcare professionals on the early signs of eating disorders.","answerText":"As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards. All doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including recognising eating disorders.\n\nGPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in Revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.\n\nNICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) produce recommendations to help practitioners and commissioners get the best care to people fast, while ensuring value for money. NICE guidelines are shared with GPs once they have been approved for application within Northern Ireland. NICE have guidelines for the recognition and early management of eating disorders.\n\nMy Department have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.\n\nGPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit and allocation for this service for 2024/25 is £50.5k. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.\n\nPractice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of these PBL is to allow dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GP’s and their Practice Staff. Provision of PBL was previously developed by the then HSCB for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 SPPG commission the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. PBL is facilitated by local GP Federation Support Units and £178k has been allocated for PBL for the 24/25 year. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors, and in order to provide the services that they are contracting for, GPs will be required to meet the required training and competency standards. All doctors wishing to become GPs undertake training covering a wide range of conditions including recognising eating disorders.
GPs are ultimately responsible for ensuring that they maintain their own continuous professional development (CPD) in order to keep their knowledge, skills and training up to date. This includes participation in annual appraisal and in Revalidation, the requirements of which are set by the General Medical Council (GMC). Every licensed doctor must revalidate to show that they are fit to practise and to maintain their licence to work in the UK.
NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) produce recommendations to help practitioners and commissioners get the best care to people fast, while ensuring value for money. NICE guidelines are shared with GPs once they have been approved for application within Northern Ireland. NICE have guidelines for the recognition and early management of eating disorders.
My Department have a number of initiatives which are designed to ensure that GPs and Practices can access training readily and at a time that is convenient.
GPNI was established during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure effective communication was maintained, with all those working within GP Primary Care. This service is commissioned from the Eastern GP Federation Support Unit and allocation for this service for 2024/25 is £50.5k. The GPNI website and webinars are now widely accepted as a key regional communications platform designed to improve dissemination of, and access to, information for Primary Care practitioners.
Practice Based Learning (PBL) is a programme of learning sessions for GP’s and the wider General Practice staff. The aim of these PBL is to allow dedicated time to be set aside for educational sessions to contribute to the continued professional development of GP’s and their Practice Staff. Provision of PBL was previously developed by the then HSCB for all GP Practices, however from March 2020 SPPG commission the provision of PBL from the Federations for their member Practices. PBL is facilitated by local GP Federation Support Units and £178k has been allocated for PBL for the 24/25 year. They have provided a cost-effective programme of ongoing learning for their GPs, nurses and wider Practice staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023428%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430072"}},{"id":"430071","reference":"AQW 23427/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-26","answerBy":"2025-03-13","answered":"2025-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps his Department is taking to improve access to specialist eating disorder services in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"(i)\n\nTrust\tAdults\tChildren\nSouthern\t5\t10\nWestern\t14\t<5\n\nNote the following:\n\n• Reporting for the 2024/25 year has been impacted by Encompass implementation for Belfast/SET & Northern Trusts. No data is available from Belfast/SET or Northern Trust for January 2025.\n\n• Small numbers <5 have been suppressed for non-disclosure purposes\n\n• This is Management Information sourced from Trusts’ manual returns – not official statistics.\n\n(ii)\n\nFunding to Eating Disorder Services\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nEating Disorders Association NI\t23,300\t18,000\t18,000\t25,200\t13,500\nHSC Trusts\t-\t-\t1,158,000\t1,000,000\t-\nTotal funding allocated\t23,300\t18,000\t1,176,000\t1,025,200\t13,500\n\n(iii)\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.\n\nA precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.","answerHtml":"(i)
| Trust | Adults | Children |
| Southern | 5 | 10 |
| Western | 14 | <5 |
Note the following:
• Reporting for the 2024/25 year has been impacted by Encompass implementation for Belfast/SET & Northern Trusts. No data is available from Belfast/SET or Northern Trust for January 2025.
• Small numbers <5 have been suppressed for non-disclosure purposes
• This is Management Information sourced from Trusts’ manual returns – not official statistics.
(ii)
| Funding to Eating Disorder Services | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Eating Disorders Association NI | 23,300 | 18,000 | 18,000 | 25,200 | 13,500 |
| HSC Trusts | - | - | 1,158,000 | 1,000,000 | - |
| Total funding allocated | 23,300 | 18,000 | 1,176,000 | 1,025,200 | 13,500 |
(iii)
The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.
A precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023427%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430071"}},{"id":"430070","reference":"AQW 23426/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-26","answerBy":"2025-03-13","answered":"2025-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the funding allocated to eating disorder services in each of the last five years.","answerText":"(i)\n\nTrust\tAdults\tChildren\nSouthern\t5\t10\nWestern\t14\t<5\n\nNote the following:\n\n• Reporting for the 2024/25 year has been impacted by Encompass implementation for Belfast/SET & Northern Trusts. No data is available from Belfast/SET or Northern Trust for January 2025.\n\n• Small numbers <5 have been suppressed for non-disclosure purposes\n\n• This is Management Information sourced from Trusts’ manual returns – not official statistics.\n\n(ii)\n\nFunding to Eating Disorder Services\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nEating Disorders Association NI\t23,300\t18,000\t18,000\t25,200\t13,500\nHSC Trusts\t-\t-\t1,158,000\t1,000,000\t-\nTotal funding allocated\t23,300\t18,000\t1,176,000\t1,025,200\t13,500\n\n(iii)\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.\n\nA precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.","answerHtml":"(i)
| Trust | Adults | Children |
| Southern | 5 | 10 |
| Western | 14 | <5 |
Note the following:
• Reporting for the 2024/25 year has been impacted by Encompass implementation for Belfast/SET & Northern Trusts. No data is available from Belfast/SET or Northern Trust for January 2025.
• Small numbers <5 have been suppressed for non-disclosure purposes
• This is Management Information sourced from Trusts’ manual returns – not official statistics.
(ii)
| Funding to Eating Disorder Services | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Eating Disorders Association NI | 23,300 | 18,000 | 18,000 | 25,200 | 13,500 |
| HSC Trusts | - | - | 1,158,000 | 1,000,000 | - |
| Total funding allocated | 23,300 | 18,000 | 1,176,000 | 1,025,200 | 13,500 |
(iii)
The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.
A precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023426%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430070"}},{"id":"430069","reference":"AQW 23425/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-26","answerBy":"2025-03-13","answered":"2025-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients currently awaiting treatment for eating disorders, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"(i)\n\nTrust\tAdults\tChildren\nSouthern\t5\t10\nWestern\t14\t<5\n\nNote the following:\n\n• Reporting for the 2024/25 year has been impacted by Encompass implementation for Belfast/SET & Northern Trusts. No data is available from Belfast/SET or Northern Trust for January 2025.\n\n• Small numbers <5 have been suppressed for non-disclosure purposes\n\n• This is Management Information sourced from Trusts’ manual returns – not official statistics.\n\n(ii)\n\nFunding to Eating Disorder Services\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nEating Disorders Association NI\t23,300\t18,000\t18,000\t25,200\t13,500\nHSC Trusts\t-\t-\t1,158,000\t1,000,000\t-\nTotal funding allocated\t23,300\t18,000\t1,176,000\t1,025,200\t13,500\n\n(iii)\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.\n\nA precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.","answerHtml":"(i)
| Trust | Adults | Children |
| Southern | 5 | 10 |
| Western | 14 | <5 |
Note the following:
• Reporting for the 2024/25 year has been impacted by Encompass implementation for Belfast/SET & Northern Trusts. No data is available from Belfast/SET or Northern Trust for January 2025.
• Small numbers <5 have been suppressed for non-disclosure purposes
• This is Management Information sourced from Trusts’ manual returns – not official statistics.
(ii)
| Funding to Eating Disorder Services | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Eating Disorders Association NI | 23,300 | 18,000 | 18,000 | 25,200 | 13,500 |
| HSC Trusts | - | - | 1,158,000 | 1,000,000 | - |
| Total funding allocated | 23,300 | 18,000 | 1,176,000 | 1,025,200 | 13,500 |
(iii)
The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 includes a commitment to enhance regional eating disorder services and in line with the Mental Health Strategy Action 29d, a Regional Clinical Lead and Manager for the Regional Eating Disorder Managed Care Network were appointed in late 2024. They are in the planning phase of establishing the Network and a business case to improve effective resource allocation is in its final stages.
A precise timescale for further implementation of Action 29d has not been determined as it will depend upon the availability of funding. The Business Case related to Action 29d proposes to enhance the current community-based, evidence-based treatment model in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance, thereby increasing regional availability and accessibility of intensive community and day treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023425%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=430069","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=430069"}},{"id":"429913","reference":"AQW 23317/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of the potential for business closures due to (i) rising operational costs; and (ii) the planned reduction in rates relief.","answerText":"I am aware the local business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. While the Statement brought welcome benefits for workers with increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage; rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget also increased employer National Insurance contributions.\n\nWhen Minister of Finance, I engaged with businesses on the budget and made continued representations to the Treasury on the subject. I also commissioned research to better understand the cost of doing business including disparities in VAT, and the changes to employer’s national insurance contributions and national minimum wage. The research is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here.\n\nMy colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.\n\nRecent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters.\n\nDelivering for the economy is a priority for the Executive. We want to help create more good jobs, boost productivity, support local innovation and deliver a more sustainable economy.\n\nMy Department and Invest NI provide a broad range of support to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI also has a portfolio of grants, loans and investment funds, many of which are specifically targeted at early stage and small businesses.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund.\n\nOver the last five years Invest NI has made financial offers of support totalling £474m to businesses in the North. 93% of these offers were to locally owned businesses.\n\nThe Energy Efficiency Capital Grant (EECG) helps businesses in the North reduce energy costs and build resilience through green efficiency. Grant support is offered to eligible businesses to buy and install energy efficiency equipment that reduces energy and carbon emissions. The grant is part of a suite of support, delivered through Invest NI, that helps businesses to make efficiencies in their use of energy and resources.\n\nIn addition to the Energy Efficiency Capital Grant, Invest NI also delivers a suite of Energy and Resource Efficiency support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable businesses in the North to become more efficient and resilient through green competencies, progressing them on their path to Net Zero. This support includes sustainability reports, a Resource Matching Service, the Resource Efficiency Capital Grant, and Technical Consultancy.\n\nTourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability.","answerHtml":"I am aware the local business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. While the Statement brought welcome benefits for workers with increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage; rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget also increased employer National Insurance contributions.
When Minister of Finance, I engaged with businesses on the budget and made continued representations to the Treasury on the subject. I also commissioned research to better understand the cost of doing business including disparities in VAT, and the changes to employer’s national insurance contributions and national minimum wage. The research is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here.
My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.
Recent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters.
Delivering for the economy is a priority for the Executive. We want to help create more good jobs, boost productivity, support local innovation and deliver a more sustainable economy.
My Department and Invest NI provide a broad range of support to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI also has a portfolio of grants, loans and investment funds, many of which are specifically targeted at early stage and small businesses.
In addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund.
Over the last five years Invest NI has made financial offers of support totalling £474m to businesses in the North. 93% of these offers were to locally owned businesses.
The Energy Efficiency Capital Grant (EECG) helps businesses in the North reduce energy costs and build resilience through green efficiency. Grant support is offered to eligible businesses to buy and install energy efficiency equipment that reduces energy and carbon emissions. The grant is part of a suite of support, delivered through Invest NI, that helps businesses to make efficiencies in their use of energy and resources.
In addition to the Energy Efficiency Capital Grant, Invest NI also delivers a suite of Energy and Resource Efficiency support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable businesses in the North to become more efficient and resilient through green competencies, progressing them on their path to Net Zero. This support includes sustainability reports, a Resource Matching Service, the Resource Efficiency Capital Grant, and Technical Consultancy.
Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023317%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429913","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429913"}},{"id":"429912","reference":"AQW 23316/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail how her Department intends to support businesses in managing wage pressures associated with the increase in the national living wage and employers' National Insurance contributions.","answerText":"I am aware the local business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. While the Statement brought welcome benefits for workers with increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage; rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget also increased employer National Insurance contributions.\n\nWhen Minister of Finance, I engaged with businesses on the budget and made continued representations to the Treasury on the subject. I also commissioned research to better understand the cost of doing business including disparities in VAT, and the changes to employer’s national insurance contributions and national minimum wage. The research is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here.\n\nMy colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.\n\nRecent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters.\n\nDelivering for the economy is a priority for the Executive. We want to help create more good jobs, boost productivity, support local innovation and deliver a more sustainable economy.\n\nMy Department and Invest NI provide a broad range of support to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI also has a portfolio of grants, loans and investment funds, many of which are specifically targeted at early stage and small businesses.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund.\n\nOver the last five years Invest NI has made financial offers of support totalling £474m to businesses in the North. 93% of these offers were to locally owned businesses.\n\nThe Energy Efficiency Capital Grant (EECG) helps businesses in the North reduce energy costs and build resilience through green efficiency. Grant support is offered to eligible businesses to buy and install energy efficiency equipment that reduces energy and carbon emissions. The grant is part of a suite of support, delivered through Invest NI, that helps businesses to make efficiencies in their use of energy and resources.\n\nIn addition to the Energy Efficiency Capital Grant, Invest NI also delivers a suite of Energy and Resource Efficiency support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable businesses in the North to become more efficient and resilient through green competencies, progressing them on their path to Net Zero. This support includes sustainability reports, a Resource Matching Service, the Resource Efficiency Capital Grant, and Technical Consultancy.\n\nTourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability.","answerHtml":"I am aware the local business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. While the Statement brought welcome benefits for workers with increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage; rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget also increased employer National Insurance contributions.
When Minister of Finance, I engaged with businesses on the budget and made continued representations to the Treasury on the subject. I also commissioned research to better understand the cost of doing business including disparities in VAT, and the changes to employer’s national insurance contributions and national minimum wage. The research is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here.
My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.
Recent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters.
Delivering for the economy is a priority for the Executive. We want to help create more good jobs, boost productivity, support local innovation and deliver a more sustainable economy.
My Department and Invest NI provide a broad range of support to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI also has a portfolio of grants, loans and investment funds, many of which are specifically targeted at early stage and small businesses.
In addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund.
Over the last five years Invest NI has made financial offers of support totalling £474m to businesses in the North. 93% of these offers were to locally owned businesses.
The Energy Efficiency Capital Grant (EECG) helps businesses in the North reduce energy costs and build resilience through green efficiency. Grant support is offered to eligible businesses to buy and install energy efficiency equipment that reduces energy and carbon emissions. The grant is part of a suite of support, delivered through Invest NI, that helps businesses to make efficiencies in their use of energy and resources.
In addition to the Energy Efficiency Capital Grant, Invest NI also delivers a suite of Energy and Resource Efficiency support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable businesses in the North to become more efficient and resilient through green competencies, progressing them on their path to Net Zero. This support includes sustainability reports, a Resource Matching Service, the Resource Efficiency Capital Grant, and Technical Consultancy.
Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023316%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429912","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429912"}},{"id":"429911","reference":"AQW 23315/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any engagement that has taken place between her Department and representatives of the (i) retail sector; and (ii) hospitality sector in relation to the impact of increased labour costs.","answerText":"On 13 January 2025, my predecessor met with representatives of 23 local business groups and chambers of commerce at Parliament Buildings to discuss issues relating to local high street businesses following the British Government’s Autumn Statement. Those in attendance represented Retail NI, Hospitality Ulster and Food NI along with several chambers of commerce. As Finance Minister, I, alongside a DfE official, met with Hospitality Ulster representatives on 22 January to discuss the implications of the Autumn Statement. My predecessor met with Colin Neill, CEO of Hospitality Ulster, and representatives from four of his member organisations on 29 January to discuss their concerns on the cost of doing business. My officials also regularly engage with Hospitality Ulster through a range of other fora. From this engagement I’m aware that the local retail and hospitality sectors have concerns about the impact of increased labour costs as a result of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. These concerns are being examined as part of Cost of Doing Business research which I commissioned as Finance Minister and which is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here. My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with businesses to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.","answerHtml":"On 13 January 2025, my predecessor met with representatives of 23 local business groups and chambers of commerce at Parliament Buildings to discuss issues relating to local high street businesses following the British Government’s Autumn Statement. Those in attendance represented Retail NI, Hospitality Ulster and Food NI along with several chambers of commerce. As Finance Minister, I, alongside a DfE official, met with Hospitality Ulster representatives on 22 January to discuss the implications of the Autumn Statement. My predecessor met with Colin Neill, CEO of Hospitality Ulster, and representatives from four of his member organisations on 29 January to discuss their concerns on the cost of doing business. My officials also regularly engage with Hospitality Ulster through a range of other fora. From this engagement I’m aware that the local retail and hospitality sectors have concerns about the impact of increased labour costs as a result of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. These concerns are being examined as part of Cost of Doing Business research which I commissioned as Finance Minister and which is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here. My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with businesses to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023315%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429911","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429911"}},{"id":"429910","reference":"AQW 23314/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans in place to prevent potential job losses in Northern Ireland resulting from increased operational costs for businesses.","answerText":"I am aware the local business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. While the Statement brought welcome benefits for workers with increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage; rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget also increased employer National Insurance contributions.\n\nWhen Minister of Finance, I engaged with businesses on the budget and made continued representations to the Treasury on the subject. I also commissioned research to better understand the cost of doing business including disparities in VAT, and the changes to employer’s national insurance contributions and national minimum wage. The research is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here.\n\nMy colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.\n\nRecent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters.\n\nDelivering for the economy is a priority for the Executive. We want to help create more good jobs, boost productivity, support local innovation and deliver a more sustainable economy.\n\nMy Department and Invest NI provide a broad range of support to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI also has a portfolio of grants, loans and investment funds, many of which are specifically targeted at early stage and small businesses.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund.\n\nOver the last five years Invest NI has made financial offers of support totalling £474m to businesses in the North. 93% of these offers were to locally owned businesses.\n\nThe Energy Efficiency Capital Grant (EECG) helps businesses in the North reduce energy costs and build resilience through green efficiency. Grant support is offered to eligible businesses to buy and install energy efficiency equipment that reduces energy and carbon emissions. The grant is part of a suite of support, delivered through Invest NI, that helps businesses to make efficiencies in their use of energy and resources.\n\nIn addition to the Energy Efficiency Capital Grant, Invest NI also delivers a suite of Energy and Resource Efficiency support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable businesses in the North to become more efficient and resilient through green competencies, progressing them on their path to Net Zero. This support includes sustainability reports, a Resource Matching Service, the Resource Efficiency Capital Grant, and Technical Consultancy.\n\nTourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability.","answerHtml":"I am aware the local business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. While the Statement brought welcome benefits for workers with increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage; rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget also increased employer National Insurance contributions.
When Minister of Finance, I engaged with businesses on the budget and made continued representations to the Treasury on the subject. I also commissioned research to better understand the cost of doing business including disparities in VAT, and the changes to employer’s national insurance contributions and national minimum wage. The research is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here.
My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury.
Recent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters.
Delivering for the economy is a priority for the Executive. We want to help create more good jobs, boost productivity, support local innovation and deliver a more sustainable economy.
My Department and Invest NI provide a broad range of support to businesses to help them be more competitive through energy efficiency, innovation, skills, and exploring new markets. Invest NI also has a portfolio of grants, loans and investment funds, many of which are specifically targeted at early stage and small businesses.
In addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund.
Over the last five years Invest NI has made financial offers of support totalling £474m to businesses in the North. 93% of these offers were to locally owned businesses.
The Energy Efficiency Capital Grant (EECG) helps businesses in the North reduce energy costs and build resilience through green efficiency. Grant support is offered to eligible businesses to buy and install energy efficiency equipment that reduces energy and carbon emissions. The grant is part of a suite of support, delivered through Invest NI, that helps businesses to make efficiencies in their use of energy and resources.
In addition to the Energy Efficiency Capital Grant, Invest NI also delivers a suite of Energy and Resource Efficiency support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable businesses in the North to become more efficient and resilient through green competencies, progressing them on their path to Net Zero. This support includes sustainability reports, a Resource Matching Service, the Resource Efficiency Capital Grant, and Technical Consultancy.
Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023314%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429910"}},{"id":"429909","reference":"AQW 23313/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-25","answerBy":"2025-03-12","answered":"2025-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any measures her Department will take to promote and sustain tourism-related businesses in Northern Ireland’s coastal towns in light of recent cost pressures.","answerText":"I’m aware that the local Tourism and Hospitality business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. These concerns are being examined as part of Cost of Doing Business research which I commissioned as Finance Minister and which is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here. My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury. Recent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters. My Department and its delivery partners provide a wide range of support to local companies to generate growth. These include dedicated financial offers of support from Invest NI, upskilling the workforce through FE and HE provision and Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland encouraging visitors to visit and spend here, whilst supporting industry development. Making businesses more sustainable also makes economic sense. My Department leads on the delivery of the Energy Strategy and last year saw the launch of an Energy & Resource Efficiency Programme through Invest NI which provides essential support for businesses to reduce operating costs whilst also creating economic opportunities in the green economy. In addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund. Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability. The recently launched Tourism Vision and Action Plan: 10 Year Plan provides a roadmap for the growth of tourism over the next ten years, to increase tourism expenditure from overnight visitors to £2 billion per annum.","answerHtml":"I’m aware that the local Tourism and Hospitality business community has expressed serious concerns about the impact of the British Government’s Autumn Statement. These concerns are being examined as part of Cost of Doing Business research which I commissioned as Finance Minister and which is due to be completed later this month. It will help build the evidence base for making the case for the Treasury to act on the cost of doing business here. My colleague, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the adverse impacts of the taxation system with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury at the Finance Interministerial Standing Committee on 27 February. I will work to support him and advocate alongside him where possible. We will continue to engage with the sector to help us in making persuasive representations to Treasury. Recent calls have been made for the Executive to use our rating system to compensate for some of the budget challenges. This is not practical, nor is it the right solution. The Executive does not have the financial capacity to compensate for decisions made on reserved taxation matters. My Department and its delivery partners provide a wide range of support to local companies to generate growth. These include dedicated financial offers of support from Invest NI, upskilling the workforce through FE and HE provision and Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland encouraging visitors to visit and spend here, whilst supporting industry development. Making businesses more sustainable also makes economic sense. My Department leads on the delivery of the Energy Strategy and last year saw the launch of an Energy & Resource Efficiency Programme through Invest NI which provides essential support for businesses to reduce operating costs whilst also creating economic opportunities in the green economy. In addition, my Department’s Regional Economic Plan is focussed on identifying key economic opportunities and priority actions for each part of the North, supported by a £45m Regional Development Fund. Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism & hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable. These include programmes such as Leaner and Greener focusing on reducing resource costs, Innovate Tourism, focusing on harnessing innovation in businesses, and the Destination Sustainability Programme, providing a more in-depth approach to embedding sustainability. The recently launched Tourism Vision and Action Plan: 10 Year Plan provides a roadmap for the growth of tourism over the next ten years, to increase tourism expenditure from overnight visitors to £2 billion per annum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023313%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429909","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429909"}},{"id":"429569","reference":"AQW 23205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration that was given to the long-term educational and social impacts on children of discontinuing the Healthy Happy Minds programme.","answerText":"As part of the Healthy Happy Minds Counselling and Therapeutic Services pilot which ended two years ago:\n\n702 schools availed of the Healthy Happy Minds pilot, the pilot was available to all primary setting including schools and EOTAS.\n\nThe number of pupils supported through the pilot is not available, as some participating schools failed to return their monitoring forms.\n\nI welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services.","answerHtml":"As part of the Healthy Happy Minds Counselling and Therapeutic Services pilot which ended two years ago:
702 schools availed of the Healthy Happy Minds pilot, the pilot was available to all primary setting including schools and EOTAS.
The number of pupils supported through the pilot is not available, as some participating schools failed to return their monitoring forms.
I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429569","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429569"}},{"id":"429568","reference":"AQW 23204/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) primary schools that previously benefitted from therapy service funding; and (ii) children supported through these services.","answerText":"As part of the Healthy Happy Minds Counselling and Therapeutic Services pilot which ended two years ago:\n\n702 schools availed of the Healthy Happy Minds pilot, the pilot was available to all primary setting including schools and EOTAS.\n\nThe number of pupils supported through the pilot is not available, as some participating schools failed to return their monitoring forms.\n\nI welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services.","answerHtml":"As part of the Healthy Happy Minds Counselling and Therapeutic Services pilot which ended two years ago:
702 schools availed of the Healthy Happy Minds pilot, the pilot was available to all primary setting including schools and EOTAS.
The number of pupils supported through the pilot is not available, as some participating schools failed to return their monitoring forms.
I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023204%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429568"}},{"id":"429567","reference":"AQW 23203/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department intends to monitor the potential impact of not providing funding for therapy services on educational outcomes and mental health for children.","answerText":"My officials continue to work alongside colleagues from the Department of Health with the continued investment of over £5m per annum to support programmes identified under the joint Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.\n\nIt is important to note that while our schools are encouraged to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, the provision of mental health and therapeutic services for children, including those or primary school age, is ultimately within the remit of the health service and should be delivered by appropriately qualified and registered health professionals (i.e. counsellors and therapists).\n\nGiven the challenging financial context across both the health and education systems, I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services, and the funding of the same, with Ministerial colleagues.\n\nAt the same time, schools continue to have flexibility to use their individual budgets to best meet the identified needs of their pupils and in some circumstances they may employ the services of a counsellor or therapist from existing funds. It is important to stress however, that where a school has any immediate concerns for a primary age child, referral continues to be available through health services, including CAMHS and associated pathways in conjunction with other support services.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to work alongside colleagues from the Department of Health with the continued investment of over £5m per annum to support programmes identified under the joint Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.
It is important to note that while our schools are encouraged to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, the provision of mental health and therapeutic services for children, including those or primary school age, is ultimately within the remit of the health service and should be delivered by appropriately qualified and registered health professionals (i.e. counsellors and therapists).
Given the challenging financial context across both the health and education systems, I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services, and the funding of the same, with Ministerial colleagues.
At the same time, schools continue to have flexibility to use their individual budgets to best meet the identified needs of their pupils and in some circumstances they may employ the services of a counsellor or therapist from existing funds. It is important to stress however, that where a school has any immediate concerns for a primary age child, referral continues to be available through health services, including CAMHS and associated pathways in conjunction with other support services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023203%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429567"}},{"id":"429566","reference":"AQW 23202/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has considered sourcing alternative funding streams to continue the provision of therapy to children in primary schools, given the growing concern in relation to children’s mental health.","answerText":"My officials continue to work alongside colleagues from the Department of Health with the continued investment of over £5m per annum to support programmes identified under the joint Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.\n\nIt is important to note that while our schools are encouraged to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, the provision of mental health and therapeutic services for children, including those or primary school age, is ultimately within the remit of the health service and should be delivered by appropriately qualified and registered health professionals (i.e. counsellors and therapists).\n\nGiven the challenging financial context across both the health and education systems, I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services, and the funding of the same, with Ministerial colleagues.\n\nAt the same time, schools continue to have flexibility to use their individual budgets to best meet the identified needs of their pupils and in some circumstances they may employ the services of a counsellor or therapist from existing funds. It is important to stress however, that where a school has any immediate concerns for a primary age child, referral continues to be available through health services, including CAMHS and associated pathways in conjunction with other support services.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to work alongside colleagues from the Department of Health with the continued investment of over £5m per annum to support programmes identified under the joint Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.
It is important to note that while our schools are encouraged to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, the provision of mental health and therapeutic services for children, including those or primary school age, is ultimately within the remit of the health service and should be delivered by appropriately qualified and registered health professionals (i.e. counsellors and therapists).
Given the challenging financial context across both the health and education systems, I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services, and the funding of the same, with Ministerial colleagues.
At the same time, schools continue to have flexibility to use their individual budgets to best meet the identified needs of their pupils and in some circumstances they may employ the services of a counsellor or therapist from existing funds. It is important to stress however, that where a school has any immediate concerns for a primary age child, referral continues to be available through health services, including CAMHS and associated pathways in conjunction with other support services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023202%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429566"}},{"id":"429565","reference":"AQW 23201/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-24","answerBy":"2025-03-11","answered":"2025-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department is working with other Executive Departments to ensure that primary school children continue to have access to vital mental health and therapy services.","answerText":"My officials continue to work alongside colleagues from the Department of Health with the continued investment of over £5m per annum to support programmes identified under the joint Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.\n\nIt is important to note that while our schools are encouraged to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, the provision of mental health and therapeutic services for children, including those or primary school age, is ultimately within the remit of the health service and should be delivered by appropriately qualified and registered health professionals (i.e. counsellors and therapists).\n\nGiven the challenging financial context across both the health and education systems, I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services, and the funding of the same, with Ministerial colleagues.\n\nAt the same time, schools continue to have flexibility to use their individual budgets to best meet the identified needs of their pupils and in some circumstances they may employ the services of a counsellor or therapist from existing funds. It is important to stress however, that where a school has any immediate concerns for a primary age child, referral continues to be available through health services, including CAMHS and associated pathways in conjunction with other support services.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to work alongside colleagues from the Department of Health with the continued investment of over £5m per annum to support programmes identified under the joint Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework.
It is important to note that while our schools are encouraged to provide a supportive and nurturing environment, the provision of mental health and therapeutic services for children, including those or primary school age, is ultimately within the remit of the health service and should be delivered by appropriately qualified and registered health professionals (i.e. counsellors and therapists).
Given the challenging financial context across both the health and education systems, I welcome the re-establishment of the ‘Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention’ as I believe that this will provide an opportunity to discuss the continuum of provision for mental health and therapeutic services, and the funding of the same, with Ministerial colleagues.
At the same time, schools continue to have flexibility to use their individual budgets to best meet the identified needs of their pupils and in some circumstances they may employ the services of a counsellor or therapist from existing funds. It is important to stress however, that where a school has any immediate concerns for a primary age child, referral continues to be available through health services, including CAMHS and associated pathways in conjunction with other support services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023201%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=429565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=429565"}},{"id":"428936","reference":"AQW 22916/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":"2025-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how his Department supports disabled individuals and their families in managing financial and personal affairs when controllership is not available.","answerText":"My Department has processes in place to ensure that those who require support are assisted with Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Attendance Allowance (AA) claims. These include the opportunity to have an appointee or representative to assist with the day-to-day management of claims, and for PIP, the opportunity to be accompanied when undergoing a functional assessment.\n\nWhere a customer requires additional support, a marker is set on the PIP computer system to ensure that applications are progressed to Capita for assessment where a customer fails to return a claim form to ensure that the customer is not disadvantaged.\n\nIn addition, all disability benefit customers, including Universal Credit claimants who require support, are referred to the Department’s Make the Call service for assistance, as appropriate. Make the Call deploys a team of community-based Outreach Officers who conduct home visits with vulnerable people and provide face to face assistance and support with benefit claim completion.\n\nAll benefit delivery staff also have access to the Department’s advanced customer support guidance which is designed to equip staff to both identify vulnerable customers and those with complex needs and to better support them to access services.\n\nCustomers are also signposted to independent advice which is available from the Advice NI Helpline. The helpline number is 0800 915 4604 or via email on advice@adviceni.net. This service is free, confidential, independent and impartial.","answerHtml":"My Department has processes in place to ensure that those who require support are assisted with Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance (DLA) and Attendance Allowance (AA) claims. These include the opportunity to have an appointee or representative to assist with the day-to-day management of claims, and for PIP, the opportunity to be accompanied when undergoing a functional assessment.
Where a customer requires additional support, a marker is set on the PIP computer system to ensure that applications are progressed to Capita for assessment where a customer fails to return a claim form to ensure that the customer is not disadvantaged.
In addition, all disability benefit customers, including Universal Credit claimants who require support, are referred to the Department’s Make the Call service for assistance, as appropriate. Make the Call deploys a team of community-based Outreach Officers who conduct home visits with vulnerable people and provide face to face assistance and support with benefit claim completion.
All benefit delivery staff also have access to the Department’s advanced customer support guidance which is designed to equip staff to both identify vulnerable customers and those with complex needs and to better support them to access services.
Customers are also signposted to independent advice which is available from the Advice NI Helpline. The helpline number is 0800 915 4604 or via email on advice@adviceni.net. This service is free, confidential, independent and impartial.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022916%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428936","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428936"}},{"id":"428935","reference":"AQW 22915/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the resources and training currently provided to healthcare professionals to advise families on the legal options available for decision-making support.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022915%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428935","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428935"}},{"id":"428934","reference":"AQW 22914/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":"2025-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the steps his Department is taking to ensure that vulnerable adults without family support are provided with appropriate decision-making assistance.","answerText":"There are processes in place for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance to ensure that those who require support are assisted. These include: the opportunity to have an appointee or representative to assist with the day-to-day management of claims, and for PIP, the opportunity to be accompanied when undergoing a functional assessment.\n\nWhere a customer requires additional support, a marker is set on the PIP computer system to ensure that applications are progressed to Capita for assessment where a customer fails to return a claim form to ensure that the customer is not disadvantaged.\n\nIn addition, all Universal Credit and disability benefit customers who require advice or support with form completion are signposted to the Department’s Make the Call service and to the independent support provided by Advice NI.\n\nAll benefit delivery staff have access to the Department’s advanced customer support guidance which is designed to equip staff to both identify vulnerable customers and those with complex needs and to better support them to access services.\n\nServices funded through the Supporting People Programme conduct needs and risk assessments, to ensure individuals receive the right level of decision-making assistance and support tailored to their needs.\n\nAdditionally, support extends to assistance in engaging with professionals and external organisations, ensuring individuals can navigate services effectively. Where needed, individuals can also be signposted to specialist advocacy services for assistance with complex decision-making.\n\nMy Department invests around £6.6m annually in independent, community-based advice services which are free at the point of contact. This includes regulated debt advice and support for people impacted by Welfare changes.","answerHtml":"There are processes in place for Personal Independence Payment (PIP), Disability Living Allowance and Attendance Allowance to ensure that those who require support are assisted. These include: the opportunity to have an appointee or representative to assist with the day-to-day management of claims, and for PIP, the opportunity to be accompanied when undergoing a functional assessment.
Where a customer requires additional support, a marker is set on the PIP computer system to ensure that applications are progressed to Capita for assessment where a customer fails to return a claim form to ensure that the customer is not disadvantaged.
In addition, all Universal Credit and disability benefit customers who require advice or support with form completion are signposted to the Department’s Make the Call service and to the independent support provided by Advice NI.
All benefit delivery staff have access to the Department’s advanced customer support guidance which is designed to equip staff to both identify vulnerable customers and those with complex needs and to better support them to access services.
Services funded through the Supporting People Programme conduct needs and risk assessments, to ensure individuals receive the right level of decision-making assistance and support tailored to their needs.
Additionally, support extends to assistance in engaging with professionals and external organisations, ensuring individuals can navigate services effectively. Where needed, individuals can also be signposted to specialist advocacy services for assistance with complex decision-making.
My Department invests around £6.6m annually in independent, community-based advice services which are free at the point of contact. This includes regulated debt advice and support for people impacted by Welfare changes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022914%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428934"}},{"id":"428933","reference":"AQW 22913/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":"2025-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail how his Department ensures that financial planning services for individuals with disabilities and their families are accessible and aligned with best practices in other jurisdictions.","answerText":"Financial services are reserved to Westminster, with Treasury being the responsible department. This is the same position for Scotland and Wales.","answerHtml":"Financial services are reserved to Westminster, with Treasury being the responsible department. This is the same position for Scotland and Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022913%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428933","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428933"}},{"id":"428932","reference":"AQW 22912/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-19","answerBy":"2025-03-06","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any financial support available for low-income families seeking controllership; and (ii) whether reforms are being considered to reduce the cost burden.","answerText":"(i) While there are normally fees for those seeking a controllership order, exemptions are available for those in receipt of certain benefits, and remissions on the grounds of hardship are available on application. An information leaflet, ‘Do I have to pay court fees?’, and the form for Exemption or Remission of a Court Fee can be found on my Department’s website.\n\n(ii) The legislative framework for controllership in Northern Ireland, provided for in the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986, is a matter for the Department of Health. Following the 2007 Bamford Review, the Department of Health brought forward the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. The provisions within the 2016 Act around controllership have yet to be commenced, but they will replace controllers with deputies, who will carry out the same functions but in relation to health and welfare matters, as well as finance and property. Deputies will also be supervised by a public official known as a Public Guardian rather than directly by the court, but the nature of the supervision will essentially be the same. The Department of Health has recently established a working group to identify the actions, resources and time required to enable commencement of the remainder of the 2016 Act.","answerHtml":"(i) While there are normally fees for those seeking a controllership order, exemptions are available for those in receipt of certain benefits, and remissions on the grounds of hardship are available on application. An information leaflet, ‘Do I have to pay court fees?’, and the form for Exemption or Remission of a Court Fee can be found on my Department’s website.
(ii) The legislative framework for controllership in Northern Ireland, provided for in the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986, is a matter for the Department of Health. Following the 2007 Bamford Review, the Department of Health brought forward the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016. The provisions within the 2016 Act around controllership have yet to be commenced, but they will replace controllers with deputies, who will carry out the same functions but in relation to health and welfare matters, as well as finance and property. Deputies will also be supervised by a public official known as a Public Guardian rather than directly by the court, but the nature of the supervision will essentially be the same. The Department of Health has recently established a working group to identify the actions, resources and time required to enable commencement of the remainder of the 2016 Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022912%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428932"}},{"id":"428755","reference":"AQW 22821/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-18","answerBy":"2025-02-21","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on when Housing Executive staff can expect to receive the National Joint Council for Local Government Services National Pay Award.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the answer to AQW 21575/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the answer to AQW 21575/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428755"}},{"id":"428754","reference":"AQW 22820/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-18","answerBy":"2025-03-05","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any collaborative work being undertaken with his Executive colleagues in order to prioritise and accelerate the development and implementation of a comprehensive childcare strategy.","answerText":"With the support of my Executive Colleagues, I secured £25m for early learning and childcare provision in 2024-25 and £50m within the draft budget for 2025/26. The draft Programme for Government also commits the Executive to prioritising the development of an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy by autumn 2025.\n\nAt an operational level, I have established a senior officials cross-departmental Task and Finish Group to support this work. In addition to my own department, the group has representation from The Department for the Economy, the Department of Health, the Department for Communities, the Department of the Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department of Finance, Invest Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency. Sub-groups on specific themes have also been formed.","answerHtml":"With the support of my Executive Colleagues, I secured £25m for early learning and childcare provision in 2024-25 and £50m within the draft budget for 2025/26. The draft Programme for Government also commits the Executive to prioritising the development of an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy by autumn 2025.
At an operational level, I have established a senior officials cross-departmental Task and Finish Group to support this work. In addition to my own department, the group has representation from The Department for the Economy, the Department of Health, the Department for Communities, the Department of the Environment and Rural Affairs, the Department of Finance, Invest Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency. Sub-groups on specific themes have also been formed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022820%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428754"}},{"id":"428753","reference":"AQW 22819/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-18","answerBy":"2025-03-05","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any assessment her Department has made of the impact of rising childcare costs on workforce participation, particularly amongst women.","answerText":"I recognise the relationship between the availability of childcare provision and the ability for parents to participate in education and employment, and thus support and grow the economy. I hear the issues being raised by parents in terms of costs and it’s important that we understand the extent of the issue.\n\nWith this in mind, my department commissioned research examining key determinants of the gender employment gap, the findings of which supports the evidence that women with children suffer labour market penalties. I also look forward to the first results of the NISRA childcare survey, expected in May.\n\nThe survey collected information on the cost of childcare and the impact of childcare on employment and training decisions.\n\nMy officials are also assisting the Department of Education with market research on the childcare sector. This research, currently being carried out by Innovation and Consultancy Services (ICS), will determine the key issues impacting the financial sustainability of providers within the childcare sector.","answerHtml":"I recognise the relationship between the availability of childcare provision and the ability for parents to participate in education and employment, and thus support and grow the economy. I hear the issues being raised by parents in terms of costs and it’s important that we understand the extent of the issue.
With this in mind, my department commissioned research examining key determinants of the gender employment gap, the findings of which supports the evidence that women with children suffer labour market penalties. I also look forward to the first results of the NISRA childcare survey, expected in May.
The survey collected information on the cost of childcare and the impact of childcare on employment and training decisions.
My officials are also assisting the Department of Education with market research on the childcare sector. This research, currently being carried out by Innovation and Consultancy Services (ICS), will determine the key issues impacting the financial sustainability of providers within the childcare sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022819%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428753"}},{"id":"428752","reference":"AQW 22818/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-18","answerBy":"2025-03-05","answered":"2025-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the development of a full Early Learning and Childcare Strategy, including (i) the current status; (ii) key milestones; and (iii) expected timelines for publication.","answerText":"I intend to bring forward an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy for Executive consideration and public consultation by autumn 2025.","answerHtml":"I intend to bring forward an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy for Executive consideration and public consultation by autumn 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022818%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428752"}},{"id":"428751","reference":"AQW 22817/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-18","answerBy":"2025-03-05","answered":"2025-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any considerations to increase the financial support provided through schemes such as the Northern Ireland Childcare Subsidy Scheme to better align with the rising costs of childcare.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nIn the Executive’s 2024-25 Budget, £25 million was provided for a range of support measures in respect of early learning and childcare.\n\nThis included the local Childcare Subsidy Scheme, enabling eligible parents to receive a 15% discount off their childcare bills (in addition to Tax-Free Childcare savings) where their provider is participating in the scheme. As of the end of January 2025, over 14,000 children had been registered for the scheme, reducing families’ bills on childcare by £5.3 million since its launch in September 2024.\n\nA further £50 million has been allocated to early learning and support measures in the draft budget for 2025-26, and it is for the Education Minister to seek Executive agreement on his proposals.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
In the Executive’s 2024-25 Budget, £25 million was provided for a range of support measures in respect of early learning and childcare.
This included the local Childcare Subsidy Scheme, enabling eligible parents to receive a 15% discount off their childcare bills (in addition to Tax-Free Childcare savings) where their provider is participating in the scheme. As of the end of January 2025, over 14,000 children had been registered for the scheme, reducing families’ bills on childcare by £5.3 million since its launch in September 2024.
A further £50 million has been allocated to early learning and support measures in the draft budget for 2025-26, and it is for the Education Minister to seek Executive agreement on his proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022817%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428751"}},{"id":"428415","reference":"AQW 22714/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-17","answerBy":"2025-03-04","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the funding streams available for suicide prevention charities; and (ii) how his Department intends to support organisations like Samaritans Northern Ireland in securing sustainable financial resources.","answerText":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.\n\n259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.\n\nThe purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.\n\nThe Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.\n\nFor example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.\n\nThe Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.\n\nI expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.\n\nI can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.","answerHtml":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.
259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.
The purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.
The Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.
For example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.
The Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.
I expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.
I can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022714%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428415","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428415"}},{"id":"428414","reference":"AQW 22713/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-17","answerBy":"2025-03-04","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any engagement his Department has had with Samaritans Northern Ireland in relation to their funding concerns; and (ii) any further discussions planned.","answerText":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.\n\n259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.\n\nThe purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.\n\nThe Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.\n\nFor example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.\n\nThe Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.\n\nI expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.\n\nI can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.","answerHtml":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.
259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.
The purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.
The Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.
For example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.
The Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.
I expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.
I can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022713%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428414","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428414"}},{"id":"428413","reference":"AQW 22712/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-17","answerBy":"2025-03-04","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given the Executive’s commitment to improving mental health, to detail any steps being taken to ensure that frontline organisations like Samaritans Northern Ireland remain financially viable.","answerText":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.\n\n259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.\n\nThe purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.\n\nThe Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.\n\nFor example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.\n\nThe Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.\n\nI expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.\n\nI can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.","answerHtml":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.
259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.
The purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.
The Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.
For example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.
The Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.
I expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.
I can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022712%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428413","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428413"}},{"id":"428412","reference":"AQW 22711/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-17","answerBy":"2025-03-04","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his Department’s assessment of the impact the loss of core funding will have on Samaritans Northern Ireland’s ability to provide life-saving services.","answerText":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.\n\n259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.\n\nThe purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.\n\nThe Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.\n\nFor example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.\n\nThe Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.\n\nI expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.\n\nI can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.","answerHtml":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.
259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.
The purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.
The Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.
For example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.
The Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.
I expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.
I can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022711%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428412","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428412"}},{"id":"428411","reference":"AQW 22710/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-17","answerBy":"2025-03-04","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given their role in suicide prevention and mental health support, to detail the rationale for the decision not to provide core funding to Samaritans Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.\n\n259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.\n\nThe purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.\n\nThe Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.\n\nFor example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.\n\nThe Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.\n\nI expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.\n\nI can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.","answerHtml":"The Core Grant Funding Scheme for 2025-26 was co-designed in 2024 with Community and Voluntary Sector representatives.
259 bids totalling over £13m were submitted to a Scheme with a budget of £1.8m. Demand was therefore always going to outstrip supply, leaving more losers than winners. The general standard of applications was incredibly high, and the selection of 25 high scoring applications to stage 2 of the assessment process was based solely on agreed scoring criteria, rather than a departmental determination of the value of the applicants.
The purpose of the Core Grant scheme is to help Community and Voluntary sector bodies cover their fixed costs and does not directly fund service delivery.
The Department’s Core Grant Scheme is a small part of the total health service expenditure which goes to the Community and Voluntary sector, as most money is for the direct provision of services.
For example, in 2023/24, 84% of Core Grant recipients were also in receipt of HSC service delivery contracts worth £53m.
The Samaritans have not been successful in their application for Core Grant in 2025/26, which I understand will be disappointing for the organisation. My officials will be in contact with all applicants to offer feedback over the coming weeks, which will assist them in applying again in future funding rounds.
I expect to issue another call for applications this Autumn for 2026/27 funding.
I can assure you that I value the work of the Samaritans and I want to place on record my thanks for their continuing work to support those in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022710%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428411"}},{"id":"428147","reference":"AQW 22616/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any specific measures within the Housing Supply Strategy that will address the impact of second home ownership on the availability of affordable housing in coastal communities in East Londonderry.","answerText":"I recognise that the issue of second home ownership is causing concern in some specific areas in relation to the potential impact on housing affordability. There is very limited data available on second homes which makes it difficult to establish their extent, location and what impacts they may have.\n\nFor example, the latest Census for Northern Ireland showed that six percent of all houses had no usual residents. There are a range of possibilities for this including that they are truly vacant, being renovated, self-catering/short-term lets or second homes.\n\nMy Department is carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues.\n\nMore broadly, the first objective of the Executive Housing Supply Strategy aims to ensure we deliver more affordable options across all tenures and work is underway to take forward the first action plan.\n\nThis work will supplement action to address locally specific issues that may impact on housing requirements in an area, which is primarily taken forward by Local Councils working closely with the Housing Executive Place shaping teams. This includes through the delivery of Local Development Plans, which are responsible for establishing policies to ensure the spatial growth requirements of the local area can be met.","answerHtml":"I recognise that the issue of second home ownership is causing concern in some specific areas in relation to the potential impact on housing affordability. There is very limited data available on second homes which makes it difficult to establish their extent, location and what impacts they may have.
For example, the latest Census for Northern Ireland showed that six percent of all houses had no usual residents. There are a range of possibilities for this including that they are truly vacant, being renovated, self-catering/short-term lets or second homes.
My Department is carrying out research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues.
More broadly, the first objective of the Executive Housing Supply Strategy aims to ensure we deliver more affordable options across all tenures and work is underway to take forward the first action plan.
This work will supplement action to address locally specific issues that may impact on housing requirements in an area, which is primarily taken forward by Local Councils working closely with the Housing Executive Place shaping teams. This includes through the delivery of Local Development Plans, which are responsible for establishing policies to ensure the spatial growth requirements of the local area can be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022616%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428147"}},{"id":"428146","reference":"AQW 22615/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any engagement his Department has had with housing associations to discuss barriers to delivering social housing in smaller towns and rural villages; and (ii) any financial or regulatory support being considered to overcome these challenges.","answerText":"I am keenly aware that the provision of social housing delivery in rural areas presents significant challenges and requires different solutions than those in urban areas. Engagement with Housing Associations suggests that in addition to difficulties identifying suitable land, there are barriers relating to community infrastructure and sustainability, specifically connections to wastewater systems, adequate roads, NI Water capacity and proximity to schools. Housing Associations have also indicated that it can be difficult to get support for viable schemes due to a lack of evidence of housing need in rural areas.\n\nMy Department has set up a Steering Group which includes representatives from Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, NI Housing Executive, and Land & Property Services to explore the barriers to rural housing development and develop a plan to address them. Research commissioned by the group has recently been received and is currently being evaluated.","answerHtml":"I am keenly aware that the provision of social housing delivery in rural areas presents significant challenges and requires different solutions than those in urban areas. Engagement with Housing Associations suggests that in addition to difficulties identifying suitable land, there are barriers relating to community infrastructure and sustainability, specifically connections to wastewater systems, adequate roads, NI Water capacity and proximity to schools. Housing Associations have also indicated that it can be difficult to get support for viable schemes due to a lack of evidence of housing need in rural areas.
My Department has set up a Steering Group which includes representatives from Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, NI Housing Executive, and Land & Property Services to explore the barriers to rural housing development and develop a plan to address them. Research commissioned by the group has recently been received and is currently being evaluated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022615%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428146","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428146"}},{"id":"428145","reference":"AQW 22614/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the actions planned under the Housing Supply Strategy within the next three years to address housing shortages in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Following the publication of the Executive Housing Supply Strategy on 9th December, work is underway to establish cross-Departmental structures to develop the first action plan which will be focussed on addressing the whole system issues that impact on overall supply across all of Northern Ireland.\n\nThis work will supplement action to address locally specific issues that may impact on housing requirements in an area which is primarily taken forward by Local Councils working closely with the Housing Executive Place shaping teams. This includes through the delivery of Local Development Plans, which are responsible for establishing the zonings and policies to ensure the spatial growth requirements of the local area can be met.","answerHtml":"Following the publication of the Executive Housing Supply Strategy on 9th December, work is underway to establish cross-Departmental structures to develop the first action plan which will be focussed on addressing the whole system issues that impact on overall supply across all of Northern Ireland.
This work will supplement action to address locally specific issues that may impact on housing requirements in an area which is primarily taken forward by Local Councils working closely with the Housing Executive Place shaping teams. This includes through the delivery of Local Development Plans, which are responsible for establishing the zonings and policies to ensure the spatial growth requirements of the local area can be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022614%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428145"}},{"id":"428144","reference":"AQW 22613/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to address the shortage of affordable and social housing in East Londonderry, particularly in areas where demand is highest.","answerText":"Housing need is generally addressed through the re-let of existing social housing accommodation (Stock turnover). Where the volume of re-lets is insufficient to meet housing need, then construction or acquisition of further (new) social housing is required.\n\nIn the East Londonderry constituency:\n\n•51 social housing units have been completed in 2024/25 to date.\n\n•There are currently 76 social housing units under construction.\n\n•There are 591 social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 – 2027/28.\n\nIt should be noted that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties\n\nCo-Ownership is the Department’s main delivery partner for intermediate housing. In 2023/2024, 43 Co-Ownership homes were delivered in East Londonderry.\n\nWider than this, the Executive Housing Supply Strategy published on 9th December identifies the need for a whole system approach to address housing supply issues. The Strategy recognises there is not one single overarching challenge impacting on supply. As we move to implementation of the Strategy, addressing these challenges will depend on Executive commitment to invest in the actions required to deliver the supply we need.","answerHtml":"Housing need is generally addressed through the re-let of existing social housing accommodation (Stock turnover). Where the volume of re-lets is insufficient to meet housing need, then construction or acquisition of further (new) social housing is required.
In the East Londonderry constituency:
•51 social housing units have been completed in 2024/25 to date.
•There are currently 76 social housing units under construction.
•There are 591 social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 – 2027/28.
It should be noted that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties
Co-Ownership is the Department’s main delivery partner for intermediate housing. In 2023/2024, 43 Co-Ownership homes were delivered in East Londonderry.
Wider than this, the Executive Housing Supply Strategy published on 9th December identifies the need for a whole system approach to address housing supply issues. The Strategy recognises there is not one single overarching challenge impacting on supply. As we move to implementation of the Strategy, addressing these challenges will depend on Executive commitment to invest in the actions required to deliver the supply we need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022613%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428144"}},{"id":"428143","reference":"AQW 22612/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-14","answerBy":"2025-03-03","answered":"2025-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any measures his Department has in place to ensure that planning policies support the delivery of affordable and social housing.","answerText":"My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) identifies Council Local Development Plans (LDPs) as the primary planning policy instrument to meet affordable housing need identified through Housing Needs Assessment/Housing Market Analysis. It indicates that LDPs should do this by zoning land for affordable housing, or by indicating, through key site requirements, where a proportion of a site may be required for social/affordable housing. This will not preclude other sites coming forward through the development management process.\n\nMy Department performs an important oversight role in seeking to ensure that LDPs take account of regional policy and guidance and also that they add value to and assist in the delivery of higher level Executive priorities, such as the recent Housing Supply Strategy. In this context the Department has been encouraging of LDP approaches that maximise affordable housing provision and support the creation of balanced communities and an appropriate mix of tenures. I can advise that those Councils who have published Plan Strategy documents have included requirements for housing/mixed use planning applications above a specified threshold of dwelling units to provide a proportion of those units as affordable properties.\n\nMy officials continue to work closely with housing officials in the Department for Communities and colleagues in councils and the NIHE to ensure that collectively, we can facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality homes to meet the needs of everyone.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) identifies Council Local Development Plans (LDPs) as the primary planning policy instrument to meet affordable housing need identified through Housing Needs Assessment/Housing Market Analysis. It indicates that LDPs should do this by zoning land for affordable housing, or by indicating, through key site requirements, where a proportion of a site may be required for social/affordable housing. This will not preclude other sites coming forward through the development management process.
My Department performs an important oversight role in seeking to ensure that LDPs take account of regional policy and guidance and also that they add value to and assist in the delivery of higher level Executive priorities, such as the recent Housing Supply Strategy. In this context the Department has been encouraging of LDP approaches that maximise affordable housing provision and support the creation of balanced communities and an appropriate mix of tenures. I can advise that those Councils who have published Plan Strategy documents have included requirements for housing/mixed use planning applications above a specified threshold of dwelling units to provide a proportion of those units as affordable properties.
My officials continue to work closely with housing officials in the Department for Communities and colleagues in councils and the NIHE to ensure that collectively, we can facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality homes to meet the needs of everyone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022612%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428143"}},{"id":"428004","reference":"AQW 22530/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the funding available to further education colleges to provide specialist support for students with special educational needs.","answerText":"My Department provides £4.5 million, per annum, ring-fenced funding through the Additional Support Fund (ASF) to Further Education colleges towards the necessary additional technical and/or personal support required to allow students with learning difficulties or disabilities to participate in mainstream Further Education courses, or in discrete programmes.The additional personal and technical support provided through the ASF enables students to gain the skills and qualifications needed to help them meet their goals in education, progress to employment, training, or towards independent living.","answerHtml":"My Department provides £4.5 million, per annum, ring-fenced funding through the Additional Support Fund (ASF) to Further Education colleges towards the necessary additional technical and/or personal support required to allow students with learning difficulties or disabilities to participate in mainstream Further Education courses, or in discrete programmes.The additional personal and technical support provided through the ASF enables students to gain the skills and qualifications needed to help them meet their goals in education, progress to employment, training, or towards independent living.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022530%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428004"}},{"id":"428003","reference":"AQW 22529/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for her Department’s assessment of the accessibility of further educational colleges for those with (i) special educational needs; and (ii) physical disabilities, to ensure these students have the same opportunities as their peers.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of equality and social inclusion within Further Education and there are currently a number of measures in place which aim to remove barriers for students with special educational needs gaining access to, participating in and achieving their goals with Further Education.\n\nRing-fenced funding of £4.5 million, per annum, is provided by my Department through the Additional Support Fund to Further Education colleges to help provide the necessary additional technical and/or personal support required to allow students with learning difficulties or disabilities to participate in mainstream Further Education courses, or in discrete programmes.\n\nThe fund allows colleges to provide students with technical and personal support to enable them to gain maximum benefit from their courses by removing barriers to study. Examples of technical support include specialised enabling equipment, such as braillers, specialist software and hearing loops. Personal support includes specialist tutors/advisers, such as hearing or visual impairment tutors, interpreters, classroom assistants and note-takers. The level of support provided depends on both the nature of the disability and the course of study.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of equality and social inclusion within Further Education and there are currently a number of measures in place which aim to remove barriers for students with special educational needs gaining access to, participating in and achieving their goals with Further Education.
Ring-fenced funding of £4.5 million, per annum, is provided by my Department through the Additional Support Fund to Further Education colleges to help provide the necessary additional technical and/or personal support required to allow students with learning difficulties or disabilities to participate in mainstream Further Education courses, or in discrete programmes.
The fund allows colleges to provide students with technical and personal support to enable them to gain maximum benefit from their courses by removing barriers to study. Examples of technical support include specialised enabling equipment, such as braillers, specialist software and hearing loops. Personal support includes specialist tutors/advisers, such as hearing or visual impairment tutors, interpreters, classroom assistants and note-takers. The level of support provided depends on both the nature of the disability and the course of study.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022529%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428003","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428003"}},{"id":"428002","reference":"AQW 22528/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any assessment his Department has made in relation to the impact of the transition from school on the mental health of young people with special educational needs.","answerText":"Transition is recognised to be a time of increased risk of stress and negative emotions for families and young people. The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 is cognisant of transition from education as part of a wider series of interfaces as children enter adult health and social care (HSC) services.\n\nAction 13 of the Mental Health Strategy sets out the Department's commitment to develop proposals for transitions between CAMHS and adult mental health services, engaging widely with all relevant stakeholders. Work is ongoing to take this forward.\n\nIn addition to this, a regional protocol to better manage HSC transitions has been developed with a pilot due to take place later this year","answerHtml":"Transition is recognised to be a time of increased risk of stress and negative emotions for families and young people. The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 is cognisant of transition from education as part of a wider series of interfaces as children enter adult health and social care (HSC) services.
Action 13 of the Mental Health Strategy sets out the Department's commitment to develop proposals for transitions between CAMHS and adult mental health services, engaging widely with all relevant stakeholders. Work is ongoing to take this forward.
In addition to this, a regional protocol to better manage HSC transitions has been developed with a pilot due to take place later this year
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022528%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428002","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428002"}},{"id":"428001","reference":"AQW 22527/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his Department’s assessment of the current provision of day centres, particularly in rural areas; and (ii) to detail the measures his Department is taking to ensure all young people with special educational needs are able to access this support.","answerText":"(i)\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need.\n\nAcross all HSCTs adults with a learning disability aged 18 years plus, may access Day Centres where this is in accordance with their assessed need. HSCTs advise that Day Care Services are predominantly located in towns/cities across Trust geographical areas, with some Day Centres located in a number of villages. Where possible and if in accordance with assessed need, adults with a learning disability avail of Day Centre provision most closely located to their home address, to reduce the need for lengthy journeys. Day Care Services are available in the following Trust locations.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT):\n\n17 Statutory Adult Day Care Centres offer support to adults with learning disabilities across the Trust geographical boundary in the following areas:\n\nMaybrook: Londonderry\n\nOaktree Centre: Londonderry\n\nValley Centre: Londonderry\n\nEvergreen: Londonderry\n\nBenbradagh: Limavady\n\nWillow Group: Limavady\n\nGlenside: Strabane\n\nOmagh Centre: Omagh\n\nStrathroy: Omagh\n\nDromore Centre: Dromore\n\nCastlederg Centre: Castlederg\n\nKesh Centre: Kesh\n\nTir Na Var: Enniskillen\n\nLackaghbouy 1: Enniskillen\n\nLackaghbouy 2: Enniskillen\n\nShare Centre: Enniskillen\n\nEPC, Lisnaskea: Lisnaskea\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT):\n\n10 Statutory Adult Day Care Centres offer support to adults with learning disabilities across all four Trust localities as noted below:\n\nMid Ulster\n\nMagherafelt Adult Centre\n\nCookstown Adult Centre\n\nCauseway\n\nMountfern, Coleraine\n\nRathmoyle, Ballycastle\n\nMillbrook, Ballymoney\n\nAntrim/Ballymena locality\n\nAntrim Adult Centre\n\nGeorge Sloan Adult Centre, Ballymena\n\nEast Antrim\n\nHawthorns, Carrickfergus\n\nDrumross, Newtownabbey\n\nLarne Adult Centre\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT):\n\n10 Statutory Day Centres offer support to adults with learning disability in the following Trust locations, 3 in Downpatrick area,\n\n3 in Lisburn and 4 in North Down and Ards.\n\nIn addition to this there are 6 independent providers who offer Day Centre facilities across the Trust area.\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust: (SHSCT)\n\n10 Statutory Day Centres offer Day Care Services to adults with a learning disability, with 2 independent providers also providing Day Care to adults with a learning disability in the following Trust locations.\n\nNewry & Mourne– Windsor, Laurels and Crossmaglen (Statutory). Cairnmount and Mourne Stimulus (Independent Sector).\n\nCraigavon & Banbridge– Manor, Bannvale and Linenbridge (Statutory).\n\nArmagh & Dungannon – Appleby, Oakridge, McCague, and Islandview (Statutory).\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT):\n\n8 Statutory Day Centres offer Day Care Services to adults with a learning disability across the Belfast Trust area. In addition, there are 4 offsite community Based Clubs managed and run by people with a learning disability for people with a learning disability supported by BHSCT staff; 2 Social Enterprises and 2 Community Day Services. The Trust advise all services are located in the Belfast City area, within the geographical location of the Belfast Health and Social Care area.\n\nAll HSCTs remain committed to providing support for young adults diagnosed with a learning disability 18 years plus, who may be considered to have special educational needs; in accordance with assessed need. All HSCTs recognise the importance of offering choice to young adults with a learning disability in the form of Day Centres or training, employment or Day Opportunity Services. Children’s and Adult Services work collaboratively to support transition planning, including working with other agencies such as Education to support service provision aligned to assessed need.\n\nAll HSCTs acknowledge current challenges in terms of Day provision, including difficulties in meeting the needs of adults with complex needs which can require variation in environments and staffing ratios in Day Centres. On occasion there can be challenges in meeting assessed need due to workforce pressures, Day Care capacity, environmental issues and working within a constrained funding envelope.\n\nAll HSCTs continue to engage with service users and their Carers to obtain solutions and identify appropriate service provision for young adults. HSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide Day Care provision for adults with a learning disability in accordance with assessed need and have procedures in place to optimise capacity within available resources.\n\n(ii)\n\nService Users, families, parents and carers continue to articulate the demand for Day Care and Day Opportunities provision. Work is ongoing within my Department to finalise the Learning Disability Service Model. Throughout 2023/24, a body of work has been undertaken, including thematic review of published research and clinical excellence guidelines, consideration of data to better understand population need and service capacity, alongside feedback from people supported, families/carers, professionals and providers. This work and feedback informed a Draft Learning Disability Model which sets out the Department of Health’s vision regarding transitions, health & wellbeing, meaningful lives & citizenship, families & carers, home and mental health & behavioural support. The draft includes a number of outcomes and actions to expand Day Services. Public Consultation is anticipated in coming months, pending finalisation of the model.\n\nMy Department is also leading work to standardise Shared Lives Service provision, with a view to enhancing Day Support Services as an option available to adults with a learning disability. In addition, my Department is finalising a draft Transition Protocol to enhance transition planning for children with a learning disability, including those children with co-occurring autism. It is envisaged when finalised, this draft protocol will be piloted.\n\nMy Department remains committed to working with HSCTS and other agencies to offer choice and meaningful day activities for adults with a learning disability in accordance with their assessed need.","answerHtml":"(i)
Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need.
Across all HSCTs adults with a learning disability aged 18 years plus, may access Day Centres where this is in accordance with their assessed need. HSCTs advise that Day Care Services are predominantly located in towns/cities across Trust geographical areas, with some Day Centres located in a number of villages. Where possible and if in accordance with assessed need, adults with a learning disability avail of Day Centre provision most closely located to their home address, to reduce the need for lengthy journeys. Day Care Services are available in the following Trust locations.
Western Health and Social Care Trust (WHSCT):
17 Statutory Adult Day Care Centres offer support to adults with learning disabilities across the Trust geographical boundary in the following areas:
Maybrook: Londonderry
Oaktree Centre: Londonderry
Valley Centre: Londonderry
Evergreen: Londonderry
Benbradagh: Limavady
Willow Group: Limavady
Glenside: Strabane
Omagh Centre: Omagh
Strathroy: Omagh
Dromore Centre: Dromore
Castlederg Centre: Castlederg
Kesh Centre: Kesh
Tir Na Var: Enniskillen
Lackaghbouy 1: Enniskillen
Lackaghbouy 2: Enniskillen
Share Centre: Enniskillen
EPC, Lisnaskea: Lisnaskea
Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT):
10 Statutory Adult Day Care Centres offer support to adults with learning disabilities across all four Trust localities as noted below:
Mid Ulster
Magherafelt Adult Centre
Cookstown Adult Centre
Causeway
Mountfern, Coleraine
Rathmoyle, Ballycastle
Millbrook, Ballymoney
Antrim/Ballymena locality
Antrim Adult Centre
George Sloan Adult Centre, Ballymena
East Antrim
Hawthorns, Carrickfergus
Drumross, Newtownabbey
Larne Adult Centre
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT):
10 Statutory Day Centres offer support to adults with learning disability in the following Trust locations, 3 in Downpatrick area,
3 in Lisburn and 4 in North Down and Ards.
In addition to this there are 6 independent providers who offer Day Centre facilities across the Trust area.
Southern Health and Social Care Trust: (SHSCT)
10 Statutory Day Centres offer Day Care Services to adults with a learning disability, with 2 independent providers also providing Day Care to adults with a learning disability in the following Trust locations.
Newry & Mourne– Windsor, Laurels and Crossmaglen (Statutory). Cairnmount and Mourne Stimulus (Independent Sector).
Craigavon & Banbridge– Manor, Bannvale and Linenbridge (Statutory).
Armagh & Dungannon – Appleby, Oakridge, McCague, and Islandview (Statutory).
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT):
8 Statutory Day Centres offer Day Care Services to adults with a learning disability across the Belfast Trust area. In addition, there are 4 offsite community Based Clubs managed and run by people with a learning disability for people with a learning disability supported by BHSCT staff; 2 Social Enterprises and 2 Community Day Services. The Trust advise all services are located in the Belfast City area, within the geographical location of the Belfast Health and Social Care area.
All HSCTs remain committed to providing support for young adults diagnosed with a learning disability 18 years plus, who may be considered to have special educational needs; in accordance with assessed need. All HSCTs recognise the importance of offering choice to young adults with a learning disability in the form of Day Centres or training, employment or Day Opportunity Services. Children’s and Adult Services work collaboratively to support transition planning, including working with other agencies such as Education to support service provision aligned to assessed need.
All HSCTs acknowledge current challenges in terms of Day provision, including difficulties in meeting the needs of adults with complex needs which can require variation in environments and staffing ratios in Day Centres. On occasion there can be challenges in meeting assessed need due to workforce pressures, Day Care capacity, environmental issues and working within a constrained funding envelope.
All HSCTs continue to engage with service users and their Carers to obtain solutions and identify appropriate service provision for young adults. HSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide Day Care provision for adults with a learning disability in accordance with assessed need and have procedures in place to optimise capacity within available resources.
(ii)
Service Users, families, parents and carers continue to articulate the demand for Day Care and Day Opportunities provision. Work is ongoing within my Department to finalise the Learning Disability Service Model. Throughout 2023/24, a body of work has been undertaken, including thematic review of published research and clinical excellence guidelines, consideration of data to better understand population need and service capacity, alongside feedback from people supported, families/carers, professionals and providers. This work and feedback informed a Draft Learning Disability Model which sets out the Department of Health’s vision regarding transitions, health & wellbeing, meaningful lives & citizenship, families & carers, home and mental health & behavioural support. The draft includes a number of outcomes and actions to expand Day Services. Public Consultation is anticipated in coming months, pending finalisation of the model.
My Department is also leading work to standardise Shared Lives Service provision, with a view to enhancing Day Support Services as an option available to adults with a learning disability. In addition, my Department is finalising a draft Transition Protocol to enhance transition planning for children with a learning disability, including those children with co-occurring autism. It is envisaged when finalised, this draft protocol will be piloted.
My Department remains committed to working with HSCTS and other agencies to offer choice and meaningful day activities for adults with a learning disability in accordance with their assessed need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022527%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428001","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428001"}},{"id":"428000","reference":"AQW 22526/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-28","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has engaged with the Department for the Economy and the Department of Education to ensure coordinated support for young people with special educational needs during their transition to adulthood.","answerText":"My Department has engaged with Economy and Education to improve support and services for young people with special educational needs (SEN) as their transition to adult services.\n\nA cross-departmental Transitions working group has undertaken work to review and improve the SEN Transitions process and to update the existing Code of Practice through the SEN End to End Review. The working group includes representatives from Health, Education, Communities, and Economy. To date, the group has conducted a survey, and the outputs will be used to improve the transitions process which will inform further work to provide children with much greater choice and control on their lives after school, while recognising that Health has a pivotal role to ensure care and health needs are supported. Ongoing cross-departmental work will continue as part of the SEN Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan.\n\nIn terms of legislative change, I have committed my support to working with the Department for the Economy as they explore options and review what support is currently available for children over the age of 19 years with SEN.\n\nHealth and Social Care will support a cohort of children with SEN throughout their life in school and transition to adult services. Supports provided are dependent on assessed need, although it is likely that HSC services will have a continued presence in the lives of children with disabilities and their families. This may include day activity, transport, short breaks, accommodation-based support, and self-directed support.\n\nMy officials have worked closely with Trusts to develop a regional protocol for Transitions to ensure that the supports we provide are regionally consistent. The next phase of this work is to commence a localised pilot ahead of regional scale up. The draft protocol has been shared with Economy and Education.","answerHtml":"My Department has engaged with Economy and Education to improve support and services for young people with special educational needs (SEN) as their transition to adult services.
A cross-departmental Transitions working group has undertaken work to review and improve the SEN Transitions process and to update the existing Code of Practice through the SEN End to End Review. The working group includes representatives from Health, Education, Communities, and Economy. To date, the group has conducted a survey, and the outputs will be used to improve the transitions process which will inform further work to provide children with much greater choice and control on their lives after school, while recognising that Health has a pivotal role to ensure care and health needs are supported. Ongoing cross-departmental work will continue as part of the SEN Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan.
In terms of legislative change, I have committed my support to working with the Department for the Economy as they explore options and review what support is currently available for children over the age of 19 years with SEN.
Health and Social Care will support a cohort of children with SEN throughout their life in school and transition to adult services. Supports provided are dependent on assessed need, although it is likely that HSC services will have a continued presence in the lives of children with disabilities and their families. This may include day activity, transport, short breaks, accommodation-based support, and self-directed support.
My officials have worked closely with Trusts to develop a regional protocol for Transitions to ensure that the supports we provide are regionally consistent. The next phase of this work is to commence a localised pilot ahead of regional scale up. The draft protocol has been shared with Economy and Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022526%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428000","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428000"}},{"id":"428080","reference":"AQO 1606/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-13","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-24","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to provide an update on the future of Limavady Courthouse.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"Limavady courthouse has been closed since March 2020, with its business currently transferred to Coleraine. Prior to the building's closure, it operated as a hearing centre and was open one day a week for the delivery of Magistrates’ Court business. The Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service's (NICTS) estate strategy, published in December 2023, provides a long-term framework for investment over the next decade and beyond. To implement the strategy, the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service is using data and evidence to baseline the existing estate against the agreed strategic outcomes; assess the adequacy of its buildings; and, in the context of the finite resources available, develop prioritised investment plans that will be subject to public consultation, as appropriate. The future use of Limavady courthouse forms part of that process."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for that answer. My biggest concern for courthouses across Northern Ireland is primarily access to justice, but also the impact on rural areas of removing courthouses. As part of the review, will the Minister look at an impact assessment to ensure that we take into account all the aspects of why not having a courthouse is a good thing?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"First, we have to make sure that those courthouses are accessible in the most basic sense, and many of them, unfortunately, are not fit for purpose. Many of the protections that we would wish to put in place — for example, for vulnerable victims and witnesses — are not possible, because everyone enters through the one door at the front of the courthouse, meaning that we cannot segregate in the way that is normally expected in some of our more recently opened, purpose-built facilities. Limavady courthouse is the smallest courthouse in our estate, and, since 2002, it has heard only adult Magistrates' Court business. In 2023-24, only 476 cases were received by Limavady Magistrates' Court, and, historically, it has had the lowest business volumes in the court estate, which is one of the reasons why it was previously open for only a single day each week. However, it is right to say that access to justice will be one of the crucial issues in the decision-making process, but it has to be looked at in the round, including whether access to the buildings can be compliant with the Disability Discrimination Act and whether people live adjacent to them."},{"speaker":"Ms Ferguson","text":"I previously asked about Derry courthouse, Minister, and you mentioned the potential for an additional extension and refurbishment. When can we expect a firm timeline or resourcing commitments, given the ongoing need to ensure adequate access to a modern justice system in the north-west?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"As the Member will know, our initial thoughts were that we would not be able to provide the service at the current Bishop Street location, simply due to the constrained nature of the site and the listed status of the building. The plan had been to provide a new facility for the north-west."},{"speaker":"","text":"However, fortuitously, we have been able to obtain enough land beside the courthouse to allow us to reconfigure business, so we should be able to provide that kind of modern facility. The process is still in its early stages, but I will be quick to let the Member know once we have a firmer set of propositions. Again, that is part of the overall estates strategy that we have to work our way through. A number of our court buildings are old but are grade 1 and grade 2 listed and therefore need to be refurbished. Parts of the court estate are distributed into accommodation that we have to pay for whilst we have accommodation that is deteriorating rapidly through lack of use. We need to look at the whole strategy to make sure that we make best use of the buildings that we have; ensure that those that are genuinely historic buildings are maintained properly; and, crucially, ensure that we are able to maintain a justice system that works in tandem with the estate to provide people with the best possible service."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We now move to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201606%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=428080","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-02-24&docID=428904#AQO%201606/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=428080"}},{"id":"427889","reference":"AQW 22433/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-12","answerBy":"2025-02-27","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any consideration his Department has given to raising the age that the Department of Education has legal responsibility for children with special educational needs to 25, similar to the current position taken by England.","answerText":"Work is on-going within my Department to scope legislation within this Assembly mandate to require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18.\n\nMy officials are currently engaging with stakeholders including officials from the Department for the Economy on the wide range of issues associated with the proposed legislation including those which may impact on children with special educational needs.","answerHtml":"Work is on-going within my Department to scope legislation within this Assembly mandate to require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18.
My officials are currently engaging with stakeholders including officials from the Department for the Economy on the wide range of issues associated with the proposed legislation including those which may impact on children with special educational needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022433%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427889"}},{"id":"427888","reference":"AQW 22432/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-12","answerBy":"2025-02-27","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has undertaken an equality assessment of how legislation to raise the compulsory school age to 18 will impact children with additional needs.","answerText":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.\n\nWork is on-going within the Department to scope legislation for enactment during this Assembly mandate which will require young people to continue education or training until they are age 18.\n\nAs part of this work, my officials are currently conducting an Equality Screening of the proposed legislation together with a Rural Impact Assessment and Child Rights Impact Assessment.","answerHtml":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.
Work is on-going within the Department to scope legislation for enactment during this Assembly mandate which will require young people to continue education or training until they are age 18.
As part of this work, my officials are currently conducting an Equality Screening of the proposed legislation together with a Rural Impact Assessment and Child Rights Impact Assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022432%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427888"}},{"id":"427887","reference":"AQW 22431/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-12","answerBy":"2025-02-27","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department has engaged with (i) parents of children with special educational needs; and (ii) special schools, in relation to legislation to increase the compulsory school age to 18.","answerText":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.\n\nWork is on-going within the Department to scope legislation to be enacted within this Assembly mandate which will require young people to continue in education or training until they are age 18.\n\nMy officials are engaging with stakeholders currently on the wide range of issues associated with this proposed legislation. Subject to approval by the Executive, engagement with parents of children with special educational needs and special schools will form an important part of the anticipated public consultation in 2025.","answerHtml":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.
Work is on-going within the Department to scope legislation to be enacted within this Assembly mandate which will require young people to continue in education or training until they are age 18.
My officials are engaging with stakeholders currently on the wide range of issues associated with this proposed legislation. Subject to approval by the Executive, engagement with parents of children with special educational needs and special schools will form an important part of the anticipated public consultation in 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022431%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427887"}},{"id":"427886","reference":"AQW 22430/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-12","answerBy":"2025-02-27","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, as part of legislation to increase the compulsory school age to 18, whether he has considered extending the compulsory school age for children with special education needs to 19.","answerText":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.\n\nWork is on-going within the Department to bring forward legislation within this Assembly mandate to require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18. My officials are engaging with stakeholders currently on the wide range of issues associated with this proposed legislation including the impact on young people with special educational needs.","answerHtml":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.
Work is on-going within the Department to bring forward legislation within this Assembly mandate to require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18. My officials are engaging with stakeholders currently on the wide range of issues associated with this proposed legislation including the impact on young people with special educational needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022430%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427886"}},{"id":"427885","reference":"AQW 22429/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-12","answerBy":"2025-02-27","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on his plans to introduce legislation to raise the compulsory school age in Northern Ireland to 18; and (ii) when the public consultation will be launched.","answerText":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.\n\nWork is on-going within my Department to scope proposals for legislation within this Assembly mandate which would require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18. This will require Executive and Assembly approval. As part of this process, my officials will engage with a wide range of stakeholders. A public consultation is likely to take place this year.","answerHtml":"I do not propose to increase compulsory school age to 18.
Work is on-going within my Department to scope proposals for legislation within this Assembly mandate which would require young people to continue their education or training until they are age 18. This will require Executive and Assembly approval. As part of this process, my officials will engage with a wide range of stakeholders. A public consultation is likely to take place this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022429%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427885","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427885"}},{"id":"427620","reference":"AQW 22336/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls will address technology-facilitated abuse, including (i) Artificial Intelligence-generated content; (ii) deepfake content; and (iii) online harassment and image-based sexual abuse.","answerText":"Online abuse and violence against women and girls is an area of focus of the Executive’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework 2024-31. The Strategic Framework will be agile in its delivery to ensure it can respond to evolving and changing culture and practices, such as the expanding forms of online harm and technological abuse, including deepfake imagery.\n\nThe Department of Health has sponsorship of the Executive’s ‘Keeping children and young people safe: an Online Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland’ and accompanying three-year Action Plan, which were published in February 2021. The Department is currently drafting Actions for years 4 and 5 of the Strategy.\n\nOfcom, which is now the regulator for online safety under the Online Safety Act 2023, was a key co-design partner in the development of the Strategic Framework.\n\nOfcom is developing draft guidance for protecting women and girls online which is a requirement of the Online Safety Act 2023, and that draft Guidance which is due to launch for consultation in February 2025, will focus on the content and activity covered by the Act which disproportionately affects women and girls, such as online harassment, online misogyny and intimate image abuse. Our officials have been liaising with Ofcom, through two UK wide workshops, as they develop this guidance for consultation.\n\nWork is also ongoing through the EVAWG Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) Challenge Fund on six proof of concept projects that will use data, tech, and design innovations to identify solutions that make spaces safer for women and girls, including online.","answerHtml":"Online abuse and violence against women and girls is an area of focus of the Executive’s Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework 2024-31. The Strategic Framework will be agile in its delivery to ensure it can respond to evolving and changing culture and practices, such as the expanding forms of online harm and technological abuse, including deepfake imagery.
The Department of Health has sponsorship of the Executive’s ‘Keeping children and young people safe: an Online Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland’ and accompanying three-year Action Plan, which were published in February 2021. The Department is currently drafting Actions for years 4 and 5 of the Strategy.
Ofcom, which is now the regulator for online safety under the Online Safety Act 2023, was a key co-design partner in the development of the Strategic Framework.
Ofcom is developing draft guidance for protecting women and girls online which is a requirement of the Online Safety Act 2023, and that draft Guidance which is due to launch for consultation in February 2025, will focus on the content and activity covered by the Act which disproportionately affects women and girls, such as online harassment, online misogyny and intimate image abuse. Our officials have been liaising with Ofcom, through two UK wide workshops, as they develop this guidance for consultation.
Work is also ongoing through the EVAWG Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) Challenge Fund on six proof of concept projects that will use data, tech, and design innovations to identify solutions that make spaces safer for women and girls, including online.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022336%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427620","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427620"}},{"id":"427619","reference":"AQW 22335/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any discussions she has had with the (i) UK Government; and (ii) other devolved administrations in relation to cross-jurisdictional efforts to address Artificial Intelligence-generated misinformation and deepfake technology.","answerText":"I recognise the significant harm and distress that can be caused by the use of deepfake technology, both in terms of disinformation and also in the creation of deepfake sexual imagery. It can destroy victims’ lives.\n\nTelecommunications and internet legislation are reserved matters. However, online safety is also a cross-cutting issue where a holistic approach needs to be taken to address the issue more widely. This is demonstrated in the Executive’s Online Safety Strategy which has been established to assist children and young people to participate in the online world in a positive, safe and responsible way.\n\nWhere responsibility falls to my Department, I am committed to strengthening our laws to further protect our community from abusive and fraudulent behaviours facilitated by deepfake technology. I continue to consider all opportunities available to me to do so, including both through the extension of UK Government legislation and through Assembly legislation.\n\nI have been in contact with the UK Government on a range of related proposals intended for its upcoming Crime and Policing Bill to explore where these may be extended to Northern Ireland, subject to the agreement of the Assembly. I understand my Scottish Government counterparts have a similar interest in extension of particular proposals.\n\nThis had included a proposal to introduce a new offence of creating a sexually explicit deepfake image without consent, which I was keen to extend to Northern Ireland. However, this proposal has since been brought forward for England and Wales by way of an amendment to the current Data (Access and Use) Bill, tabled by the UK Government on 22 January 2025.\n\nAs we were not made aware of this change of plan by the UK Government in advance, I am now considering the options available for Northern Ireland, and I remain committed to strengthening the protection for victims of deepfake imagery. I continue to work with counterparts on other aspects of the Bill of particular interest to Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I recognise the significant harm and distress that can be caused by the use of deepfake technology, both in terms of disinformation and also in the creation of deepfake sexual imagery. It can destroy victims’ lives.
Telecommunications and internet legislation are reserved matters. However, online safety is also a cross-cutting issue where a holistic approach needs to be taken to address the issue more widely. This is demonstrated in the Executive’s Online Safety Strategy which has been established to assist children and young people to participate in the online world in a positive, safe and responsible way.
Where responsibility falls to my Department, I am committed to strengthening our laws to further protect our community from abusive and fraudulent behaviours facilitated by deepfake technology. I continue to consider all opportunities available to me to do so, including both through the extension of UK Government legislation and through Assembly legislation.
I have been in contact with the UK Government on a range of related proposals intended for its upcoming Crime and Policing Bill to explore where these may be extended to Northern Ireland, subject to the agreement of the Assembly. I understand my Scottish Government counterparts have a similar interest in extension of particular proposals.
This had included a proposal to introduce a new offence of creating a sexually explicit deepfake image without consent, which I was keen to extend to Northern Ireland. However, this proposal has since been brought forward for England and Wales by way of an amendment to the current Data (Access and Use) Bill, tabled by the UK Government on 22 January 2025.
As we were not made aware of this change of plan by the UK Government in advance, I am now considering the options available for Northern Ireland, and I remain committed to strengthening the protection for victims of deepfake imagery. I continue to work with counterparts on other aspects of the Bill of particular interest to Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022335%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427619","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427619"}},{"id":"427618","reference":"AQW 22334/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure that schools address the risks posed by Artificial Intelligence, including misinformation and deepfakes, as part of digital literacy education.","answerText":"My Department provides guidance to schools in relation to online safety risks to children. The ‘Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools’ refers to resources such as those provided through the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland and also the Safer Schools Northern Ireland App. These provide advice, guidance and information on a range of safeguarding issues to schools, parents/carers and pupils.\n\nThe Safer Schools Northern Ireland App has issued a guide this month to all schools, aimed at preventing and addressing exploitation related to images generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). This guidance includes creating awareness-raising initiatives to inform students, staff and parents about the risks of online image manipulation, responsible image sharing and potential dangers of AI-generated images.\n\nThe Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) also offer a range of resources covering online safety and digital literacy including the Digital for Life and Work non-statutory guidance, Digital for Life and Work | CCEA.\n\nThe statutory curriculum already includes elements of digital literacy and online safety, particularly within the Using ICT and Personal Development and Mutual Understanding areas at primary level and Learning for Life and Work at post-primary level. My officials are working with CCEA to ensure that emerging AI-related risks, including misinformation and deep fakes, are appropriately reflected within digital literacy education.\n\nDepartmental officials will continue to engage closely with key stakeholders in relation to the emergent challenges and risks posed by AI, ensuring that they also take into account the benefits that AI can bring to education.","answerHtml":"My Department provides guidance to schools in relation to online safety risks to children. The ‘Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools’ refers to resources such as those provided through the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland and also the Safer Schools Northern Ireland App. These provide advice, guidance and information on a range of safeguarding issues to schools, parents/carers and pupils.
The Safer Schools Northern Ireland App has issued a guide this month to all schools, aimed at preventing and addressing exploitation related to images generated by Artificial Intelligence (AI). This guidance includes creating awareness-raising initiatives to inform students, staff and parents about the risks of online image manipulation, responsible image sharing and potential dangers of AI-generated images.
The Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) also offer a range of resources covering online safety and digital literacy including the Digital for Life and Work non-statutory guidance, Digital for Life and Work | CCEA.
The statutory curriculum already includes elements of digital literacy and online safety, particularly within the Using ICT and Personal Development and Mutual Understanding areas at primary level and Learning for Life and Work at post-primary level. My officials are working with CCEA to ensure that emerging AI-related risks, including misinformation and deep fakes, are appropriately reflected within digital literacy education.
Departmental officials will continue to engage closely with key stakeholders in relation to the emergent challenges and risks posed by AI, ensuring that they also take into account the benefits that AI can bring to education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022334%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427618","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427618"}},{"id":"427617","reference":"AQW 22333/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department plans to engage with the technology sector to promote ethical Artificial Intelligence development and safeguards against its misuse.","answerText":"Ensuring that artificial intelligence (AI) is safely and responsibly developed and deployed is vital to ensuring that we can maximise the benefits of this technology to society.\n\nThe work of the AI Collaboration Centre, funded by my Department and Invest NI, in promoting AI awareness and adoption among businesses in the north includes a strong emphasis on ethical and responsible innovation.\n\nThe regulatory frameworks to govern AI are the responsibility of the British government and potentially the EU. My Department will continue to work on a collaborative basis within the north and across these islands, including with the technology sector, to harness the positive potential of the safe and responsible use of this technology.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that artificial intelligence (AI) is safely and responsibly developed and deployed is vital to ensuring that we can maximise the benefits of this technology to society.
The work of the AI Collaboration Centre, funded by my Department and Invest NI, in promoting AI awareness and adoption among businesses in the north includes a strong emphasis on ethical and responsible innovation.
The regulatory frameworks to govern AI are the responsibility of the British government and potentially the EU. My Department will continue to work on a collaborative basis within the north and across these islands, including with the technology sector, to harness the positive potential of the safe and responsible use of this technology.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022333%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427617","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427617"}},{"id":"427616","reference":"AQW 22332/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-11","answerBy":"2025-02-26","answered":"2025-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps her Department is taking to ensure (i) businesses; and (ii) consumers are protected from Artificial Intelligence-driven scams and misinformation.","answerText":"Significant work is ongoing across responsible agencies, such as Ofcom, the Consumer Council and Trading Standards Service to protect businesses and consumers from online harms.\n\nThe recent UK Online Safety Act provides a range of protections against such scams and fraudulent activity, including many types of AI generated deepfake content, and provides powers of enforcement to Ofcom to deal with malicious actors.\n\nMy Department’s Trading Standards Service works to tackle online and mass marketing scams and disrupt the operations of perpetrators behind them and they continue to raise awareness of the latest frauds, including AI scams, through media appearances, press releases and social media alerts about. They deliver educational talks to local community groups and businesses while working with banks, charities and law enforcement agencies to identify victims of fraud.\n\nThe Consumer Council works closely with a range of partners and community sector organisations to provide support for consumers including tailored resources and regional outreach to promote scam awareness and prevention, and this will remain a priority in 2025.\n\nThe Consumer Council and Trading Standards Service are also members of the ScamwiseNI partnership, alongside other organisations such as the PSNI and Department of Justice, which promotes awareness and provides education to the public on the risks of scams.\n\nMy department will continue to work with these organisations and others to promote safe and ethical use of AI.","answerHtml":"Significant work is ongoing across responsible agencies, such as Ofcom, the Consumer Council and Trading Standards Service to protect businesses and consumers from online harms.
The recent UK Online Safety Act provides a range of protections against such scams and fraudulent activity, including many types of AI generated deepfake content, and provides powers of enforcement to Ofcom to deal with malicious actors.
My Department’s Trading Standards Service works to tackle online and mass marketing scams and disrupt the operations of perpetrators behind them and they continue to raise awareness of the latest frauds, including AI scams, through media appearances, press releases and social media alerts about. They deliver educational talks to local community groups and businesses while working with banks, charities and law enforcement agencies to identify victims of fraud.
The Consumer Council works closely with a range of partners and community sector organisations to provide support for consumers including tailored resources and regional outreach to promote scam awareness and prevention, and this will remain a priority in 2025.
The Consumer Council and Trading Standards Service are also members of the ScamwiseNI partnership, alongside other organisations such as the PSNI and Department of Justice, which promotes awareness and provides education to the public on the risks of scams.
My department will continue to work with these organisations and others to promote safe and ethical use of AI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022332%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427616","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427616"}},{"id":"427279","reference":"AQW 22250/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans his Department has to establish local facilities for infant post-mortem examinations to prevent the need for transportation to England.","answerText":"I am committed to finding a better resolution to the issue of local access for local perinatal and paediatric pathology. Whilst my first preference would be the restoration of a dedicated paediatric pathology service for Northern Ireland, such an outcome continues to remain incredibly challenging as the services are under considerable pressure not just here but across the world due to a global shortage of paediatric pathologists.\n\nI am keen to explore the feasibility of an all-island approach to these services and, as I confirmed to the Health Committee, I have had a number of conversations with Minister Donnelly about the possibility of future co-operation, which, whilst still at the very early stages of development and consideration, have been very positive.\n\nAs these services move to more centralised models nationally, my priority in the meantime is to ensure that we continue to have access to high-quality, reliable and timely pathology services at Alder Hey, to ensure that parents can get the medical answers they need following their loss. Access has been secured by a further extension of these arrangements.\n\nOfficials will continue to work with NHS England and colleagues across the UK and Ireland to explore possible solutions to capacity issues.","answerHtml":"I am committed to finding a better resolution to the issue of local access for local perinatal and paediatric pathology. Whilst my first preference would be the restoration of a dedicated paediatric pathology service for Northern Ireland, such an outcome continues to remain incredibly challenging as the services are under considerable pressure not just here but across the world due to a global shortage of paediatric pathologists.
I am keen to explore the feasibility of an all-island approach to these services and, as I confirmed to the Health Committee, I have had a number of conversations with Minister Donnelly about the possibility of future co-operation, which, whilst still at the very early stages of development and consideration, have been very positive.
As these services move to more centralised models nationally, my priority in the meantime is to ensure that we continue to have access to high-quality, reliable and timely pathology services at Alder Hey, to ensure that parents can get the medical answers they need following their loss. Access has been secured by a further extension of these arrangements.
Officials will continue to work with NHS England and colleagues across the UK and Ireland to explore possible solutions to capacity issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022250%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427279"}},{"id":"427278","reference":"AQW 22249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his Department’s assessment of the current interim arrangement with Alder Hey Children's Hospital paediatric pathology service, mindful of the impact the current process has on grieving parents.","answerText":"The Service Level Agreement (SLA) between Belfast HSC Trust and Alder Hey Hospital Trust for the provision of this service has been in place since January 2019, when the service in Belfast became unsustainable following the resignation of the sole paediatric pathologist in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe SLA for this agreement has recently been extended on a rolling three-year basis until 2027 with the caveat that we can exit this contract at any stage should we be in a position to re-establish the service in Northern Ireland.\n\nPost-mortem uptake levels are now almost consistent with those prior to the cessation of the service in Belfast. The numbers of placenta histologies being sent for examination have risen in recent years. Further research is required to understand the underlying reasons for this rise.\n\nThe Pubic Health Agency (PHA) and my Department gave an undertaking to stakeholders involved in planning of the interim move to Alder Hey to evaluate the service after 1 year. In addition to qualitative measures, it was agreed that an understanding of the experience of staff and most importantly, families, would be undertaken by an organisation external to the HSC.\n\nIn light of the specialist and sensitive nature of this evaluation, Queens University Belfast were approached to undertake this work. The evaluation was supported by my Department and PHA with advice being provided by a stakeholder representative steering group. Unfortunately, due to Covid pressures this evaluation was paused for a period of time.\n\nA full evaluation report has now been developed jointly by my Department and PHA which encompasses the qualitative report produced by Queens University Belfast along with a full-service evaluation and includes key performance indicator information. This report contains 21 recommendations in relation to how services and care could be improved for example in relation to timeliness of reporting, communication, and follow-up for parents. This report is currently going through the necessary approval process before it can be released.\n\nI am committed to finding a better resolution to the issue of local access for local perinatal and paediatric pathology. Whilst my first preference would be the restoration of a dedicated paediatric pathology service for Northern Ireland, such an outcome continues to remain incredibly challenging as the services are under considerable pressure not just here but across the world due to a global shortage of paediatric pathologists.\n\nI am keen to explore the feasibility of an all-island approach to these services and, as I confirmed to the Health Committee, I have had a number of conversations with Minister Donnelly about the possibility of future co-operation, which, whilst still at the very early stages of development and consideration, have been very positive.\n\nAs these services move to more centralised models nationally, my priority in the meantime is to ensure that we continue to have access to high-quality, reliable and timely pathology services at Alder Hey, to ensure that parents can get the medical answers they need following their loss. Access has been secured by a further extension of these arrangements.\n\nOfficials will continue to work with NHS England and colleagues across the UK and Ireland to explore possible solutions to capacity issues.","answerHtml":"The Service Level Agreement (SLA) between Belfast HSC Trust and Alder Hey Hospital Trust for the provision of this service has been in place since January 2019, when the service in Belfast became unsustainable following the resignation of the sole paediatric pathologist in Northern Ireland.
The SLA for this agreement has recently been extended on a rolling three-year basis until 2027 with the caveat that we can exit this contract at any stage should we be in a position to re-establish the service in Northern Ireland.
Post-mortem uptake levels are now almost consistent with those prior to the cessation of the service in Belfast. The numbers of placenta histologies being sent for examination have risen in recent years. Further research is required to understand the underlying reasons for this rise.
The Pubic Health Agency (PHA) and my Department gave an undertaking to stakeholders involved in planning of the interim move to Alder Hey to evaluate the service after 1 year. In addition to qualitative measures, it was agreed that an understanding of the experience of staff and most importantly, families, would be undertaken by an organisation external to the HSC.
In light of the specialist and sensitive nature of this evaluation, Queens University Belfast were approached to undertake this work. The evaluation was supported by my Department and PHA with advice being provided by a stakeholder representative steering group. Unfortunately, due to Covid pressures this evaluation was paused for a period of time.
A full evaluation report has now been developed jointly by my Department and PHA which encompasses the qualitative report produced by Queens University Belfast along with a full-service evaluation and includes key performance indicator information. This report contains 21 recommendations in relation to how services and care could be improved for example in relation to timeliness of reporting, communication, and follow-up for parents. This report is currently going through the necessary approval process before it can be released.
I am committed to finding a better resolution to the issue of local access for local perinatal and paediatric pathology. Whilst my first preference would be the restoration of a dedicated paediatric pathology service for Northern Ireland, such an outcome continues to remain incredibly challenging as the services are under considerable pressure not just here but across the world due to a global shortage of paediatric pathologists.
I am keen to explore the feasibility of an all-island approach to these services and, as I confirmed to the Health Committee, I have had a number of conversations with Minister Donnelly about the possibility of future co-operation, which, whilst still at the very early stages of development and consideration, have been very positive.
As these services move to more centralised models nationally, my priority in the meantime is to ensure that we continue to have access to high-quality, reliable and timely pathology services at Alder Hey, to ensure that parents can get the medical answers they need following their loss. Access has been secured by a further extension of these arrangements.
Officials will continue to work with NHS England and colleagues across the UK and Ireland to explore possible solutions to capacity issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427278"}},{"id":"427277","reference":"AQW 22248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of families have opted to send their child to Alder Hey Children's Hospital paediatric pathology service in the last five years.","answerText":"The number of babies/children that have been assessed by Alder Hey Children's Hospital paediatric pathology service in the last five years are detailed below:\n\nYEAR\tNumber of babies/children\n2020\t154\n2021\t217\n2022\t198\n2023\t200\n2024\t181","answerHtml":"The number of babies/children that have been assessed by Alder Hey Children's Hospital paediatric pathology service in the last five years are detailed below:
| YEAR | Number of babies/children |
| 2020 | 154 |
| 2021 | 217 |
| 2022 | 198 |
| 2023 | 200 |
| 2024 | 181 |
I refer the member to my response to AQW 21687/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427276"}},{"id":"427275","reference":"AQW 22246/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-10","answerBy":"2025-02-25","answered":"2025-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration his Department has given to improving the provision of bereavement suites to ensure each family has a quiet and comfortable space to grieve.","answerText":"HSC Trusts have confirmed their individual position on their provision of bereavement suites.\n\nWestern Trust\n\nThe Western Trust has a bereavement suite in both of the Maternity units at Altnagelvin and SWAH. These were designed in partnership with families who had experienced pregnancy loss and the essential works to create these suites were funded between the Trust and charitable funds from SANDS.\n\nSouth Eastern Trust\n\nThe South Eastern Trust has Sanctuary Rooms at the Ulster, Lagan Valley and Downe hospital sites; these rooms provide families a quiet and comfortable space to grieve; for noting the room at the Ulster Hospital site was renovated last year. In addition, there is a bereavement suite in their Maternity unit.\n\nSouth Eastern Trust also confirmed that within the Directorate of Surgery, Elective, Maternity & Acute Paediatrics, there are a number of bespoke 'Quiet' Rooms & 'Relatives' rooms for parents, families and relatives adjacent to the clinical areas that can be used at any time. These areas are available to families and relatives when patients are unwell or have been bereaved.\n\nSouthern Trust\n\nWithin acute Paediatric Services, the CAH neonatal unit has 2 transitional care rooms which can be made available to provide privacy and space to grieving families. The SCBU in DHH also has a transitional care room that can be made available for this purpose, in addition to the Willow room in DHH maternity if not in use.\n\nWhilst the Paediatric wards do not have bereavement suites, they do have individual rooms with blinds in the windows that provide bereaved families with privacy and space to grieve. The staff endeavour to ensure the room is in the most suitable area to meet their needs.\n\nBoth the emergency departments in the Southern Trust have bereavement rooms for families to grieve. These have been in place for a considerable period of time. At present the Trust is developing a business case to extend and improve the facility on the Craigavon site with recognition that for families of a sudden infant death, they may need to remain on site for a longer period of time\n\nWithin Surgery and Clinical Services, in response to patient feedback, work is ongoing with estates to develop bereavement suites in the gynae ward in CAH.\n\nUnfortunately they do not have bereavement suites in our non-acute hospitals.\n\nThe SHSCT have purpose built Bereavement Suites situated in the Delivery Suite where mothers are admitted for labour and birth. Both these suites are geographically located to avoid additional trauma for parents/visitors by meeting other birthing parents. The area has been sound proofed to avoid any noise disturbance. These rooms are suitable for any gestation usually used for 17-42 weeks gestation. Both suites have soft colours and furnishing to ensure the room appears less clinical and more conducive to the needs of bereaved families. Families remain in these room for labour and delivery and then discharged home.\n\nWithin Critical care (ICU) they do have two rooms which essentially operate as bereavement suites. These are two 'consultation rooms' where families are updated by the medical teams, difficult conversations are undertaken, etc. One of these rooms is used for overnight stays if appropriate, and also for families who have lost a loved one in Critical Care.\n\nBelfast Trust\n\nAcross the Belfast Trust, currently the only designated bereavement suite is within Maternity Services and this suite was co-designed with bereaved parents who are members of the Snowdrop Group, to create a private and less clinical environment.\n\nIn the Royal Victoria Hospital, within cardiology services new build, there are plans confirmed to house a dedicated area for bereaved families.\n\nThroughout the rest of the Belfast Trust currently, dedicated bereavement suites are not available. However, there are rooms for the use of relatives in all inpatient wards which would be used for sensitive conversations including breaking bad news. This space is reserved for family members to use when their loved ones are at the end of life and following their death. Relatives are provided with information and resources and they can avail of a referral to the Trust Bereavement Service.\n\nNorthern Trust\n\nThe Northern Trust is committed to delivering high quality compassionate care to women and their families following loss during pregnancy.\n\nWomen and families experiencing loss have the support of the entire multidisciplinary team, Trust Bereavement Coordinator, Bereavement Support Midwife, specialist midwives and specialist nurses working collaboratively.\n\nOur service provides support and guidance to all parents who experience pregnancy loss at any stage of pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, early neonatal death, termination for medical reasons, and pregnancy after loss.\n\nIn the clinical setting, bereaved parents are cared for in our recently opened bereavement room called the Willow Suite. This is a dedicated space for parents and families following the loss of a baby after 20 weeks, providing an appropriately quiet environment, which upholds privacy and dignity, and gives the opportunity to grieve and spend time with their precious baby whilst in hospital. On occasions there may be more than one woman bereaved, in this situation staff will use their judgement to place the woman appropriately until the Willow Suite becomes available.\n\nPrior to 20 weeks, those experiencing loss are cared for in a private room on the gynaecology ward.\n\nIn both clinical settings and supported by the multidisciplinary team parents receive:\n\n•Compassionate and empathetic care\n\n•Clear and sensitive communication\n\n•Guidance to make informed choices and decisions,\n\n•Emotional support\n\n•Opportunities for memory making with provision of memory boxes, additional resources & bereavement photography\n\n•Provision of a cuddle cot whilst in hospital or for use at home – a specialised cooling cot giving parents the opportunity to spend as much time as needed with their baby both in hospital or at home in the time before burial or cremation\n\n•Individualised care planning\n\n•Assessment of mental health and onward referral if necessary\n\n•Opportunities for remembrance and reflection\n\n•Support of specialist bereavement support midwife and signposting to other specialist services as required.","answerHtml":"HSC Trusts have confirmed their individual position on their provision of bereavement suites.
Western Trust
The Western Trust has a bereavement suite in both of the Maternity units at Altnagelvin and SWAH. These were designed in partnership with families who had experienced pregnancy loss and the essential works to create these suites were funded between the Trust and charitable funds from SANDS.
South Eastern Trust
The South Eastern Trust has Sanctuary Rooms at the Ulster, Lagan Valley and Downe hospital sites; these rooms provide families a quiet and comfortable space to grieve; for noting the room at the Ulster Hospital site was renovated last year. In addition, there is a bereavement suite in their Maternity unit.
South Eastern Trust also confirmed that within the Directorate of Surgery, Elective, Maternity & Acute Paediatrics, there are a number of bespoke 'Quiet' Rooms & 'Relatives' rooms for parents, families and relatives adjacent to the clinical areas that can be used at any time. These areas are available to families and relatives when patients are unwell or have been bereaved.
Southern Trust
Within acute Paediatric Services, the CAH neonatal unit has 2 transitional care rooms which can be made available to provide privacy and space to grieving families. The SCBU in DHH also has a transitional care room that can be made available for this purpose, in addition to the Willow room in DHH maternity if not in use.
Whilst the Paediatric wards do not have bereavement suites, they do have individual rooms with blinds in the windows that provide bereaved families with privacy and space to grieve. The staff endeavour to ensure the room is in the most suitable area to meet their needs.
Both the emergency departments in the Southern Trust have bereavement rooms for families to grieve. These have been in place for a considerable period of time. At present the Trust is developing a business case to extend and improve the facility on the Craigavon site with recognition that for families of a sudden infant death, they may need to remain on site for a longer period of time
Within Surgery and Clinical Services, in response to patient feedback, work is ongoing with estates to develop bereavement suites in the gynae ward in CAH.
Unfortunately they do not have bereavement suites in our non-acute hospitals.
The SHSCT have purpose built Bereavement Suites situated in the Delivery Suite where mothers are admitted for labour and birth. Both these suites are geographically located to avoid additional trauma for parents/visitors by meeting other birthing parents. The area has been sound proofed to avoid any noise disturbance. These rooms are suitable for any gestation usually used for 17-42 weeks gestation. Both suites have soft colours and furnishing to ensure the room appears less clinical and more conducive to the needs of bereaved families. Families remain in these room for labour and delivery and then discharged home.
Within Critical care (ICU) they do have two rooms which essentially operate as bereavement suites. These are two 'consultation rooms' where families are updated by the medical teams, difficult conversations are undertaken, etc. One of these rooms is used for overnight stays if appropriate, and also for families who have lost a loved one in Critical Care.
Belfast Trust
Across the Belfast Trust, currently the only designated bereavement suite is within Maternity Services and this suite was co-designed with bereaved parents who are members of the Snowdrop Group, to create a private and less clinical environment.
In the Royal Victoria Hospital, within cardiology services new build, there are plans confirmed to house a dedicated area for bereaved families.
Throughout the rest of the Belfast Trust currently, dedicated bereavement suites are not available. However, there are rooms for the use of relatives in all inpatient wards which would be used for sensitive conversations including breaking bad news. This space is reserved for family members to use when their loved ones are at the end of life and following their death. Relatives are provided with information and resources and they can avail of a referral to the Trust Bereavement Service.
Northern Trust
The Northern Trust is committed to delivering high quality compassionate care to women and their families following loss during pregnancy.
Women and families experiencing loss have the support of the entire multidisciplinary team, Trust Bereavement Coordinator, Bereavement Support Midwife, specialist midwives and specialist nurses working collaboratively.
Our service provides support and guidance to all parents who experience pregnancy loss at any stage of pregnancy, miscarriage, stillbirth, early neonatal death, termination for medical reasons, and pregnancy after loss.
In the clinical setting, bereaved parents are cared for in our recently opened bereavement room called the Willow Suite. This is a dedicated space for parents and families following the loss of a baby after 20 weeks, providing an appropriately quiet environment, which upholds privacy and dignity, and gives the opportunity to grieve and spend time with their precious baby whilst in hospital. On occasions there may be more than one woman bereaved, in this situation staff will use their judgement to place the woman appropriately until the Willow Suite becomes available.
Prior to 20 weeks, those experiencing loss are cared for in a private room on the gynaecology ward.
In both clinical settings and supported by the multidisciplinary team parents receive:
•Compassionate and empathetic care
•Clear and sensitive communication
•Guidance to make informed choices and decisions,
•Emotional support
•Opportunities for memory making with provision of memory boxes, additional resources & bereavement photography
•Provision of a cuddle cot whilst in hospital or for use at home – a specialised cooling cot giving parents the opportunity to spend as much time as needed with their baby both in hospital or at home in the time before burial or cremation
•Individualised care planning
•Assessment of mental health and onward referral if necessary
•Opportunities for remembrance and reflection
•Support of specialist bereavement support midwife and signposting to other specialist services as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022246%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427275"}},{"id":"427066","reference":"AQW 22149/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-07","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any alternative solutions that have been considered to sustain emergency and general surgery services at Causeway Hospital, including options for recruitment, investment and service reconfiguration.","answerText":"The Northern Trust’s Strategic Vision for Causeway Hospital (March 2024) includes a clear commitment to maintaining a 24/7 Emergency Department and acute inpatient services in Causeway Hospital and sets out an ambitious vision for the development and enhancement of services in Causeway.\n\nThe Trust’s review of general surgical services has recently been subject to public consultation, and the Trust has been clear that its preferred option does not impact on Causeway’s status as an acute hospital. This is consistent with the Minister’s position that Causeway Hospital will remain a key element of the hospital network in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024. The Trust is currently preparing a consultation outcomes report which will be presented to Northern HSC Trust Board on 27th March and then submitted to the Department of Health in due course. I will consider any recommendation made by the NHSCT at that time. In line with the DoH Circular on Change or Withdrawal of Service, the final decision on a permanent change or withdrawal of service rests with the Minister.\n\nDuring and prior to this consultation process, engagement with stakeholders and staff regarding the vision for Causeway hospital was central. The staff are enthusiastic about recent service improvements such as the extension of ambulatory care, frailty services and the vision of an elective and diagnostic hub in this area.\n\nThe options for recruitment and continued investment into Causeway will continue as Causeway is central to the plans with regard to the configuration of the acute hospital configuration.","answerHtml":"The Northern Trust’s Strategic Vision for Causeway Hospital (March 2024) includes a clear commitment to maintaining a 24/7 Emergency Department and acute inpatient services in Causeway Hospital and sets out an ambitious vision for the development and enhancement of services in Causeway.
The Trust’s review of general surgical services has recently been subject to public consultation, and the Trust has been clear that its preferred option does not impact on Causeway’s status as an acute hospital. This is consistent with the Minister’s position that Causeway Hospital will remain a key element of the hospital network in Northern Ireland.
The Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024. The Trust is currently preparing a consultation outcomes report which will be presented to Northern HSC Trust Board on 27th March and then submitted to the Department of Health in due course. I will consider any recommendation made by the NHSCT at that time. In line with the DoH Circular on Change or Withdrawal of Service, the final decision on a permanent change or withdrawal of service rests with the Minister.
During and prior to this consultation process, engagement with stakeholders and staff regarding the vision for Causeway hospital was central. The staff are enthusiastic about recent service improvements such as the extension of ambulatory care, frailty services and the vision of an elective and diagnostic hub in this area.
The options for recruitment and continued investment into Causeway will continue as Causeway is central to the plans with regard to the configuration of the acute hospital configuration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022149%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427066","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427066"}},{"id":"427065","reference":"AQW 22148/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-07","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of (i) emergency; and (ii) general surgery procedures that have taken place at Causeway Hospital in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department of Health produces statistics on the use of operating theatres in Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) hospitals in Northern Ireland, each year, broken down by Hospital and type of case. This data can be found at the link: Statistics on Theatre Utilisation by Hospital, HSC Trust and Classification 2023/24. This data goes back beyond the last five years.\n\nType of cases are broken down as per the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) classifications. The figures do not include obstetric delivery rooms containing a delivery bed, dental treatment rooms (or surgeries containing a dental chair), X-ray rooms, or rooms used only for endoscopies.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health produces statistics on the use of operating theatres in Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) hospitals in Northern Ireland, each year, broken down by Hospital and type of case. This data can be found at the link: Statistics on Theatre Utilisation by Hospital, HSC Trust and Classification 2023/24. This data goes back beyond the last five years.
Type of cases are broken down as per the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) classifications. The figures do not include obstetric delivery rooms containing a delivery bed, dental treatment rooms (or surgeries containing a dental chair), X-ray rooms, or rooms used only for endoscopies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022148%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427065","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427065"}},{"id":"427064","reference":"AQW 22147/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-07","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether there are plans to enhance or introduce alternative medical services at Causeway Hospital if emergency and general surgery services are removed, to ensure that the hospital remains a key healthcare provider in the region.","answerText":"Information provided by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts on the number (whole-time equivalent) of speech and language therapists employed at 31 December 2024, and how many are based in stroke units, is detailed in the table below.\n\nHSC Trust\tSpeech and language therapists employed (WTE) at 31 December 2024\tOf which: WTE based in stroke units\nBelfast\t157.1\t3.8\nNorthern\t111.2\t0.8*\nSouth Eastern\t113.8\t0.8\nSouthern\t116.9\t2.3\nWestern\t89.3\t0**\n\nSource: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH\n\n* 0.8 WTE in Antrim, no S< based on Causeway stroke unit with the service provided by Causeway S< core team\n\n**3.0 WTE based in the community and inreach to the stroke units.","answerHtml":"Information provided by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts on the number (whole-time equivalent) of speech and language therapists employed at 31 December 2024, and how many are based in stroke units, is detailed in the table below.
| HSC Trust | Speech and language therapists employed (WTE) at 31 December 2024 | Of which: WTE based in stroke units |
| Belfast | 157.1 | 3.8 |
| Northern | 111.2 | 0.8* |
| South Eastern | 113.8 | 0.8 |
| Southern | 116.9 | 2.3 |
| Western | 89.3 | 0** |
Source: Information & Analysis Directorate, DoH
* 0.8 WTE in Antrim, no S< based on Causeway stroke unit with the service provided by Causeway S< core team
**3.0 WTE based in the community and inreach to the stroke units.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022147%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427064"}},{"id":"427063","reference":"AQW 22146/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-07","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any contingency plans in place to ensure timely access to emergency and general surgery for residents of East Londonderry if those services are removed from the Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022146%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427063","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427063"}},{"id":"427062","reference":"AQW 22145/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-07","answerBy":"2025-02-24","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when his Department anticipates that a final decision will be announced in relation to the future of emergency and general surgery services at Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"The Northern HSC Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024.\n\nThe Trust is currently preparing a consultation outcomes report which will be submitted to the Department of Health in due course, and will consider all likely impacts of proposals.\n\nI will consider any recommendation made by the NHSCT at this time.","answerHtml":"The Northern HSC Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024.
The Trust is currently preparing a consultation outcomes report which will be submitted to the Department of Health in due course, and will consider all likely impacts of proposals.
I will consider any recommendation made by the NHSCT at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022145%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=427062","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=427062"}},{"id":"426876","reference":"AQW 22059/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-21","answered":"2025-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures his Department currently implements to ensure full time carers for those who have complex care requirements receive respite.","answerText":"Monitoring and analysis of short breaks (respite) for mental health, older people, physical and sensory disability services and learning disability services are integrated into standardised performance monitoring arrangements between HSC Trusts and Department of Health officials. Within children’s services there is ongoing regional monitoring of short break provision for children with disability.\n\nIt is acknowledged that there are challenges accessing short break services regionally across children services. In October 2024, the Minister approved additional regional funding for the children with disability service. It is intended that this funding will assist with increasing short breaks capacity, and expanding family, therapeutic and behavioural supports.\n\nEmergency short breaks are available for children and adults. It is provided in critical or unforeseen situations when primary caregivers are unexpectedly unavailable, through illness or emergencies, or there may be a safeguarding concern which may mean that care needs provided outside of the family home.","answerHtml":"Monitoring and analysis of short breaks (respite) for mental health, older people, physical and sensory disability services and learning disability services are integrated into standardised performance monitoring arrangements between HSC Trusts and Department of Health officials. Within children’s services there is ongoing regional monitoring of short break provision for children with disability.
It is acknowledged that there are challenges accessing short break services regionally across children services. In October 2024, the Minister approved additional regional funding for the children with disability service. It is intended that this funding will assist with increasing short breaks capacity, and expanding family, therapeutic and behavioural supports.
Emergency short breaks are available for children and adults. It is provided in critical or unforeseen situations when primary caregivers are unexpectedly unavailable, through illness or emergencies, or there may be a safeguarding concern which may mean that care needs provided outside of the family home.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022059%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426876","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426876"}},{"id":"426875","reference":"AQW 22058/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-21","answered":"2025-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures his Department currently implements to ensure those who require feeding or medication via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube can access Health and Social Care Trust-employed carers who are permitted to carry out such care.","answerText":"My department has sought answers from the five HSC Trusts in relation to their current processes, please see their responses below: -\n\nBelfast Trust\n\nChildren’s Community Nursing (CCN) currently have approximately 80 children on caseload requiring PEG feeding. The CCN team support families with provision of required equipment/feeding sets but do not provide carers to administer enteral feeds and medication. As a rule, parents assume this role and receive the requisite training before their child is discharged from hospital. Parents, if eligible, can also use Direct Payments to facilitate additional support. The CCN team can provide training and order equipment for these specific clients.\n\nNorthern Trust\n\nAcross the programmes of care there a number of pathways to ensure those who require feeding or medication via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube have their needs met.\n\nWith respect to children with a disability, the Trust has a ‘children with a disability’ resource panel. An Understanding the Needs of Children in Northern Ireland (UNOCINI) is completed in respect of any child being presented at panel (which will include recommendations in terms of level of care (hours) and which service will undertake that support including any delegated nursing tasks, such as PEG feeding.\n\nIf it is a child with complex physical healthcare needs the UNOCINI is also supported by a CMAC (Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Assessment of the Child) – coordinated by the paediatric discharge transitions coordinator.\n\nIn adult services, PEG feeds and PEG medications following an assessment of need are generally outsourced as per the Delegation of Nursing Tasks to Independent Service Providers & Protocol for Accessing Enhanced Packages of Care policy.\n\nWithin Adult Learning Disability Services, people who require feeding or medication via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube will have an assessment of their need completed; this informs a determination regarding which service will undertake that support including any delegated nursing tasks. For those individuals attending Trust supported living, short break or day centres PEG feeds (and medication) are available through Trust trained care staff; and for others this may be through commissioning with the independent sector.\n\nSouth Eastern Trust\n\nService users who require feeding or medication via a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy tube (PEG) will have an individual patient risk assessment completed by the relevant community nursing team.\n\nThis will determine best interest and if agreed; who is best placed to support the use of the Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy tube for medication and/or feeding. The individual could be the service user themselves, a family member, a carer; a Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) employed carer or a classroom staff member; identified by an individual school.\n\nA programme of education is delivered by the relevant community nursing team. This will include demonstration and observation of the skills required to safely administer the prescribed feed and medications.\n\nThe competency base training is underpinned by competency documentation alongside wrap around support; on any ongoing concerns or queries; by the relevant team engaged in the delivery of training.\n\nSouthern Trust\n\nThere are currently 76 children and young people with gastrostomy devices, (including percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes) on Community Children’s Nursing (CCN) caseloads, that require feeding and/or medication. The CCN service provides respite to a total of 35 children and young people with gastrostomy devices where an identified need has been assessed. CCN Healthcare Workers are trained to carry out this care through the CCN Competency Training Process and Guidelines for CCN Healthcare Workers and Carers and Northern Ireland Practice & Education Council for Nursing & Midwifery (NIPEC) Delegation Decision Framework (2019).\n\nWestern Trust\n\nThe Western Health and Social Care Trust do not delegate nursing tasks to health care workers that include the administration of medications via a PEG tube, as this remains a nursing health care task and not a social care task. The Trust however, does train some staff to assist with the stopping, starting, disconnecting and re-connecting of the tube for personal hygiene and hoisting needs.\n\nThe area of delegation of health care tasks to Personal Assistants and/or care workers is currently being reviewed by the Chief Nursing and Social Work offices and my hope is that the outworking’s of this will give a clearer regional position on delegated health care tasks.","answerHtml":"My department has sought answers from the five HSC Trusts in relation to their current processes, please see their responses below: -
Belfast Trust
Children’s Community Nursing (CCN) currently have approximately 80 children on caseload requiring PEG feeding. The CCN team support families with provision of required equipment/feeding sets but do not provide carers to administer enteral feeds and medication. As a rule, parents assume this role and receive the requisite training before their child is discharged from hospital. Parents, if eligible, can also use Direct Payments to facilitate additional support. The CCN team can provide training and order equipment for these specific clients.
Northern Trust
Across the programmes of care there a number of pathways to ensure those who require feeding or medication via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube have their needs met.
With respect to children with a disability, the Trust has a ‘children with a disability’ resource panel. An Understanding the Needs of Children in Northern Ireland (UNOCINI) is completed in respect of any child being presented at panel (which will include recommendations in terms of level of care (hours) and which service will undertake that support including any delegated nursing tasks, such as PEG feeding.
If it is a child with complex physical healthcare needs the UNOCINI is also supported by a CMAC (Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Assessment of the Child) – coordinated by the paediatric discharge transitions coordinator.
In adult services, PEG feeds and PEG medications following an assessment of need are generally outsourced as per the Delegation of Nursing Tasks to Independent Service Providers & Protocol for Accessing Enhanced Packages of Care policy.
Within Adult Learning Disability Services, people who require feeding or medication via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube will have an assessment of their need completed; this informs a determination regarding which service will undertake that support including any delegated nursing tasks. For those individuals attending Trust supported living, short break or day centres PEG feeds (and medication) are available through Trust trained care staff; and for others this may be through commissioning with the independent sector.
South Eastern Trust
Service users who require feeding or medication via a Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy tube (PEG) will have an individual patient risk assessment completed by the relevant community nursing team.
This will determine best interest and if agreed; who is best placed to support the use of the Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrostomy tube for medication and/or feeding. The individual could be the service user themselves, a family member, a carer; a Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) employed carer or a classroom staff member; identified by an individual school.
A programme of education is delivered by the relevant community nursing team. This will include demonstration and observation of the skills required to safely administer the prescribed feed and medications.
The competency base training is underpinned by competency documentation alongside wrap around support; on any ongoing concerns or queries; by the relevant team engaged in the delivery of training.
Southern Trust
There are currently 76 children and young people with gastrostomy devices, (including percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tubes) on Community Children’s Nursing (CCN) caseloads, that require feeding and/or medication. The CCN service provides respite to a total of 35 children and young people with gastrostomy devices where an identified need has been assessed. CCN Healthcare Workers are trained to carry out this care through the CCN Competency Training Process and Guidelines for CCN Healthcare Workers and Carers and Northern Ireland Practice & Education Council for Nursing & Midwifery (NIPEC) Delegation Decision Framework (2019).
Western Trust
The Western Health and Social Care Trust do not delegate nursing tasks to health care workers that include the administration of medications via a PEG tube, as this remains a nursing health care task and not a social care task. The Trust however, does train some staff to assist with the stopping, starting, disconnecting and re-connecting of the tube for personal hygiene and hoisting needs.
The area of delegation of health care tasks to Personal Assistants and/or care workers is currently being reviewed by the Chief Nursing and Social Work offices and my hope is that the outworking’s of this will give a clearer regional position on delegated health care tasks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022058%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426875"}},{"id":"426874","reference":"AQW 22057/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-21","answered":"2025-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his Department’s assessment of the impact of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust’s decision to not permit carers employed via Direct Payments to administer medication or feeding via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need. It is therefore not considered appropriate for my Department to comment on the impact of specific operational decisions made by any HSCT.\n\nIndividuals can choose to avail of Direct Payments, rather than availing of statutory service provision, aligned to assessed need. My Department is aware of the challenges regarding care provision related to the administration of medication or feeding via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube.\n\nMy Department is urgently undertaking a review of the delegation of health care tasks in relation to care provision and is engaging with stakeholders, including HSCTs, service users and families to address the issues that have arisen and make recommendations on the way forward.\n\nPending completion of this work regional consideration will be required in respect of recommendations, to determine implementation of changes as perceived appropriate, to address important care considerations.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need. It is therefore not considered appropriate for my Department to comment on the impact of specific operational decisions made by any HSCT.
Individuals can choose to avail of Direct Payments, rather than availing of statutory service provision, aligned to assessed need. My Department is aware of the challenges regarding care provision related to the administration of medication or feeding via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube.
My Department is urgently undertaking a review of the delegation of health care tasks in relation to care provision and is engaging with stakeholders, including HSCTs, service users and families to address the issues that have arisen and make recommendations on the way forward.
Pending completion of this work regional consideration will be required in respect of recommendations, to determine implementation of changes as perceived appropriate, to address important care considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022057%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426874"}},{"id":"426873","reference":"AQW 22056/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-21","answered":"2025-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his Department’s position on carers employed via Direct Payments administering medication and feeding via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube.","answerText":"The Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 and the Direct Payments Scheme guidance both stipulate that Direct Payments are intended to allow service users to commission carers to provide assessed personal social services. Currently, there is no provision for healthcare interventions to be delivered by carers employed through Direct Payments.\n\nSince the administration of medication and feeding via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube (PEG) is a healthcare intervention, this should not be undertaken by a carer employed via Direct Payments. I am aware, however, that across the Health and Social Care sector here there are variances in the approach taken to supporting the delegation of such interventions to carers employed through Direct Payments and recognise that this situation needs to be resolved.\n\nMy Department is actively reviewing the arrangements in place across the region for the delegation of healthcare interventions, with the aim of supporting individuals to live as independently as possible. As part of that process, the Chief Nursing Officer has commissioned the Northern Ireland Practice and Education Council for Nursing and Midwifery (NIPEC) to assess the practices currently in operation and identify viable pathways that will facilitate the safe and effective delegation of healthcare interventions, in line with the governing guidelines and legislation.\n\nThe review is anticipated to be completed by Autumn 2025.","answerHtml":"The Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 and the Direct Payments Scheme guidance both stipulate that Direct Payments are intended to allow service users to commission carers to provide assessed personal social services. Currently, there is no provision for healthcare interventions to be delivered by carers employed through Direct Payments.
Since the administration of medication and feeding via a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy tube (PEG) is a healthcare intervention, this should not be undertaken by a carer employed via Direct Payments. I am aware, however, that across the Health and Social Care sector here there are variances in the approach taken to supporting the delegation of such interventions to carers employed through Direct Payments and recognise that this situation needs to be resolved.
My Department is actively reviewing the arrangements in place across the region for the delegation of healthcare interventions, with the aim of supporting individuals to live as independently as possible. As part of that process, the Chief Nursing Officer has commissioned the Northern Ireland Practice and Education Council for Nursing and Midwifery (NIPEC) to assess the practices currently in operation and identify viable pathways that will facilitate the safe and effective delegation of healthcare interventions, in line with the governing guidelines and legislation.
The review is anticipated to be completed by Autumn 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022056%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426873"}},{"id":"426872","reference":"AQW 22055/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-06","answerBy":"2025-02-21","answered":"2025-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on his Department’s review of the delegation of healthcare tasks in relation to care provision; (ii) when he expects the review to be completed; and (iii) whether his Department has engaged with family members who will be directly affected by any proposed changes.","answerText":"My Department is actively reviewing the delegation of healthcare interventions. The initial focus is on the delegation of healthcare interventions under direct payments within Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, the delegation of healthcare to social care practitioners employed by HSC Trusts and third-party providers, and the delegation of healthcare for school children with complex medical needs.\n\nThe Chief Nursing Officer commissioned the Northern Ireland Practice and Education Council for Nursing and Midwifery (NIPEC) to lead this important work, with the aim of supporting individuals to live as independently as possible. NIPEC will establish the practices currently in operation and identify viable pathways that will facilitate the safe and effective delegation of healthcare in line with the governing guidelines and legislation. The review is anticipated to be completed by Autumn 2025.\n\nMy Department is committed to engaging fully with all stakeholders throughout this process, including service users, family members, carers, and health and social care professionals. To date, we have held meetings with key stakeholders, people with lived experience, and advocacy groups, including the Centre for Independent Living in NI. We are also engaging with the Patient Client Council to allow them to fulfil their statutory function of independently representing the interests of the Public in Health and Social Care.\n\nIn September 2024, Improving Adult Care Together (IMPACT) commenced collaborative work with the Centre for Independent Living in NI, following their identification of service user concerns regarding the safe and effective delegation of complex health and care interventions for children and adults during transitions. NIPEC is working in partnership with IMPACT, maintaining a strong focus on the lived experiences of people drawing on care and support, carers, and the practice knowledge of social care staff in the development of a new model.","answerHtml":"My Department is actively reviewing the delegation of healthcare interventions. The initial focus is on the delegation of healthcare interventions under direct payments within Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, the delegation of healthcare to social care practitioners employed by HSC Trusts and third-party providers, and the delegation of healthcare for school children with complex medical needs.
The Chief Nursing Officer commissioned the Northern Ireland Practice and Education Council for Nursing and Midwifery (NIPEC) to lead this important work, with the aim of supporting individuals to live as independently as possible. NIPEC will establish the practices currently in operation and identify viable pathways that will facilitate the safe and effective delegation of healthcare in line with the governing guidelines and legislation. The review is anticipated to be completed by Autumn 2025.
My Department is committed to engaging fully with all stakeholders throughout this process, including service users, family members, carers, and health and social care professionals. To date, we have held meetings with key stakeholders, people with lived experience, and advocacy groups, including the Centre for Independent Living in NI. We are also engaging with the Patient Client Council to allow them to fulfil their statutory function of independently representing the interests of the Public in Health and Social Care.
In September 2024, Improving Adult Care Together (IMPACT) commenced collaborative work with the Centre for Independent Living in NI, following their identification of service user concerns regarding the safe and effective delegation of complex health and care interventions for children and adults during transitions. NIPEC is working in partnership with IMPACT, maintaining a strong focus on the lived experiences of people drawing on care and support, carers, and the practice knowledge of social care staff in the development of a new model.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022055%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426872","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426872"}},{"id":"426756","reference":"AQW 21967/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-05","answerBy":"2025-02-20","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his assessment of the impact that delays in statutory assessments and school placements have had on children with special educational needs and their families; and (ii) any immediate measures being taken to reduce waiting times.","answerText":"My department, along with the Education Authority (EA), recognises the impact that delays in school placements have had on children with special educational needs (SEN) and their families. The lack of capacity across special schools and available local Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools (SPiMS) has impacted on the time taken to complete the statements for some children as a place must be secured to finalise the statement. I recognise that this may impact children and their families being able to prepare for a new school placement; transition arrangements for children in getting to know their new teacher and environment and access to other supports that may be provided for within the statement.\n\nIn order to mitigate such impacts, bespoke contingency arrangements are put in place to ensure that there is no or minimal impact for our children and young people. Each solution is based on the individual circumstances of the children within each school and may include one or more of the following: alternative classroom provision, home visits, stay and play sessions, dual days.\n\nThe Statutory Assessment and Review Service (SARS) has recruited additional SEN Link Officers to support reduction of caseloads and help in ensuring that communication with the families affected is prioritised. During the summer of 2024, Family Support Link Officers were recruited to support families waiting on placements to be secured.\n\nI recently published the SEN Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan. A key year one action, already underway, is the streamlining of the statutory assessment process and the EA is leading the way on this aspect of reform through its digitisation of the process.","answerHtml":"My department, along with the Education Authority (EA), recognises the impact that delays in school placements have had on children with special educational needs (SEN) and their families. The lack of capacity across special schools and available local Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools (SPiMS) has impacted on the time taken to complete the statements for some children as a place must be secured to finalise the statement. I recognise that this may impact children and their families being able to prepare for a new school placement; transition arrangements for children in getting to know their new teacher and environment and access to other supports that may be provided for within the statement.
In order to mitigate such impacts, bespoke contingency arrangements are put in place to ensure that there is no or minimal impact for our children and young people. Each solution is based on the individual circumstances of the children within each school and may include one or more of the following: alternative classroom provision, home visits, stay and play sessions, dual days.
The Statutory Assessment and Review Service (SARS) has recruited additional SEN Link Officers to support reduction of caseloads and help in ensuring that communication with the families affected is prioritised. During the summer of 2024, Family Support Link Officers were recruited to support families waiting on placements to be secured.
I recently published the SEN Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan. A key year one action, already underway, is the streamlining of the statutory assessment process and the EA is leading the way on this aspect of reform through its digitisation of the process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021967%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426756","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426756"}},{"id":"426755","reference":"AQW 21966/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-05","answerBy":"2025-02-20","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how the Special Educational Needs Reform Agenda will ensure that children with special educational needs in mainstream schools receive the necessary support; and (ii) the safeguards that are in place to prevent children with special educational needs in mainstream schools from being disadvantaged due to resource constraints.","answerText":"My Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and associated Delivery Plan, published on 4 February 2025, set out an ambitious programme for change to ensure the education system can meet the needs of all children with SEN, regardless of the educational setting they attend. The Delivery Plan contains a wide range of actions to be implemented across mainstream and special education provision.\n\nSuccessful delivery of the SEN Reform Agenda will require investment and, as indicated in the documents, my department awaits the outcomes of a bid to the NICS Transformation Fund which would provide some of the investment necessary to commence implementation of the Delivery Plan. I have also sought the support of Executive colleagues in securing this much needed investment which would ensure delivery of the draft Programme for Government (PfG) priority ‘Better Support for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs’.","answerHtml":"My Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and associated Delivery Plan, published on 4 February 2025, set out an ambitious programme for change to ensure the education system can meet the needs of all children with SEN, regardless of the educational setting they attend. The Delivery Plan contains a wide range of actions to be implemented across mainstream and special education provision.
Successful delivery of the SEN Reform Agenda will require investment and, as indicated in the documents, my department awaits the outcomes of a bid to the NICS Transformation Fund which would provide some of the investment necessary to commence implementation of the Delivery Plan. I have also sought the support of Executive colleagues in securing this much needed investment which would ensure delivery of the draft Programme for Government (PfG) priority ‘Better Support for Children and Young People with Special Educational Needs’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021966%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426755"}},{"id":"426754","reference":"AQW 21965/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-05","answerBy":"2025-02-20","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any steps being taken to ensure that children with special educational needs living in rural areas have equal access to high-quality support and education services.","answerText":"The Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan sets out a series of actions focused on providing our children and young people with SEN, from all areas, with the Right Support, from the Right People, at the Right Time and in the Right Place. By tailoring support to the needs of individual children, we will ensure that geographic location does not impact access to the quality of support and education services provided.\n\nAt present, to ensure that children with SEN in rural areas have access to high-quality support and education services, the Education Authority (EA) Educational Psychology Service (EPS) allocates its resources strategically based on need.\n\nAllocation is determined through an annually reviewed formula that considers 50% enrolment and 50% social deprivation (measured by Free School Meal Entitlement (FSME)). This ensures fair distribution of staff across urban and rural areas, aligning with identified needs.\n\nThe EA Specialist Setting Support Team (SSST) supports staff in specialist provision in mainstream schools (SPiMS) throughout Northern Ireland to improve outcomes for children and young people.\n\nAll the EA SEN and/or Disability (SEND) Pupil Support Services (PSS) provide training, advice and support within mainstream schools across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan sets out a series of actions focused on providing our children and young people with SEN, from all areas, with the Right Support, from the Right People, at the Right Time and in the Right Place. By tailoring support to the needs of individual children, we will ensure that geographic location does not impact access to the quality of support and education services provided.
At present, to ensure that children with SEN in rural areas have access to high-quality support and education services, the Education Authority (EA) Educational Psychology Service (EPS) allocates its resources strategically based on need.
Allocation is determined through an annually reviewed formula that considers 50% enrolment and 50% social deprivation (measured by Free School Meal Entitlement (FSME)). This ensures fair distribution of staff across urban and rural areas, aligning with identified needs.
The EA Specialist Setting Support Team (SSST) supports staff in specialist provision in mainstream schools (SPiMS) throughout Northern Ireland to improve outcomes for children and young people.
All the EA SEN and/or Disability (SEND) Pupil Support Services (PSS) provide training, advice and support within mainstream schools across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021965%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426754"}},{"id":"426753","reference":"AQW 21964/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-05","answerBy":"2025-02-20","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any strategies being implemented to address workforce shortages in key special educational needs services, including educational psychologists, speech and language therapists and specialist teaching staff.","answerText":"I published my Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan on 4 February 2025, which is designed to meet the needs of children with SEN by addressing, among others, the issues raised in your question.\n\nAs part of the Right People aspect of my Delivery Plan, I am committed to increasing the Educational Psychologist (EP) workforce and to working closely with Health and Social Care (HSC) services to ensure that the necessary resources are available to all children and young people with SEN.\n\nSince 2006, the department has funded student places on the Doctorate in Educational, Child and Adolescent Psychology (DECAP) course at Queens University Belfast (QUB). The DECAP is the only professional training course in educational psychology within Northern Ireland and it provides the relevant qualification to enable registration as a practitioner.\n\nThe funding of this course ensures a sufficient pool of suitably qualified EPs to enable the Education Authority (EA) to meet its statutory obligations in line with the SEN and Disability (SEND) (Northern Ireland) Order 2005 and the SEND Act 2016 and respond to the good practice guidelines within the department’s Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN.\n\nI will be trialling and implementing a Speech, Language and Communication Programme designed to deliver early intervention for emerging needs. This will be aided by the introduction of toolkits to assist speech and language therapists.\n\nThe training and development of specialist teaching staff will be informed by my child-centred Integrated Workforce Planning Framework. I will also explore a wide range of options designed to recruit and develop high-quality SEN practitioners who can offer the right support at the right time for the children and young people of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I published my Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda and Delivery Plan on 4 February 2025, which is designed to meet the needs of children with SEN by addressing, among others, the issues raised in your question.
As part of the Right People aspect of my Delivery Plan, I am committed to increasing the Educational Psychologist (EP) workforce and to working closely with Health and Social Care (HSC) services to ensure that the necessary resources are available to all children and young people with SEN.
Since 2006, the department has funded student places on the Doctorate in Educational, Child and Adolescent Psychology (DECAP) course at Queens University Belfast (QUB). The DECAP is the only professional training course in educational psychology within Northern Ireland and it provides the relevant qualification to enable registration as a practitioner.
The funding of this course ensures a sufficient pool of suitably qualified EPs to enable the Education Authority (EA) to meet its statutory obligations in line with the SEN and Disability (SEND) (Northern Ireland) Order 2005 and the SEND Act 2016 and respond to the good practice guidelines within the department’s Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN.
I will be trialling and implementing a Speech, Language and Communication Programme designed to deliver early intervention for emerging needs. This will be aided by the introduction of toolkits to assist speech and language therapists.
The training and development of specialist teaching staff will be informed by my child-centred Integrated Workforce Planning Framework. I will also explore a wide range of options designed to recruit and develop high-quality SEN practitioners who can offer the right support at the right time for the children and young people of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021964%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426753"}},{"id":"426752","reference":"AQW 21963/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-05","answerBy":"2025-02-20","answered":"2025-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the expected time frame for the implementation of the first steps of the Special Educational Needs Reform Agenda.","answerText":"A number of actions from within the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda are already underway or due to begin imminently. These include:\n\nPublication of the Education Authority’s (EA) Operational Plan 2 (OP2) on 16 January 2025 which prioritises strategic area planning for special education.\n\nPre-school education settings from November 2024 have received additional resource for children undergoing statutory assessment, estimated at a cost of £1.2m for this financial year.\n\nStreamlining of the assessment and SEN placements process to commence.\n\nThe EA, in 2025, will implement its Graduated Response Framework (GRF) and new Local IMPACT Teams (LITs) model for Pupil Support Services (PSS).\n\nThe Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) has now been commissioned to evaluate specialist education provision including the early years foundation stage provisions.\n\nDependent on the success of my department’s transformation bid, work will also commence this year on a range of actions focusing on early intervention, speech, language and communication, enhanced nurture programme, inclusive play environments and special schools as centres of expertise.","answerHtml":"A number of actions from within the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Reform Agenda are already underway or due to begin imminently. These include:
Publication of the Education Authority’s (EA) Operational Plan 2 (OP2) on 16 January 2025 which prioritises strategic area planning for special education.
Pre-school education settings from November 2024 have received additional resource for children undergoing statutory assessment, estimated at a cost of £1.2m for this financial year.
Streamlining of the assessment and SEN placements process to commence.
The EA, in 2025, will implement its Graduated Response Framework (GRF) and new Local IMPACT Teams (LITs) model for Pupil Support Services (PSS).
The Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) has now been commissioned to evaluate specialist education provision including the early years foundation stage provisions.
Dependent on the success of my department’s transformation bid, work will also commence this year on a range of actions focusing on early intervention, speech, language and communication, enhanced nurture programme, inclusive play environments and special schools as centres of expertise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021963%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426752"}},{"id":"426603","reference":"AQW 21869/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) how character references are currently used in the criminal justice system; and (ii) whether her Department has any plans to introduce guidance or legislative reform to limit or regulate the use of good character references in sexual violence and abuse cases, similar to those being considered in the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"It is a matter for the judiciary to determine what is relevant to the sentencing process. The purpose of character references under common law is to provide the court with insight into any factors that could mitigate the defendant's sentence.\n\nThis may be relevant when the defendant does not have a criminal history or a history of the same type of offence, but the courts have made it clear that personal circumstances should not normally rank highly in a serious case.\n\nI acknowledge the potential inequalities, highlighted by the Gillen Review, between complainants and defendants in serious sexual offence cases, including the fact that the complainant’s testimony is often treated with disbelief and the defendant, who can call good character evidence, may seek to undermine their character or actions whereas the complainant is not accorded the right to call character evidence or witnesses on their behalf.\n\nIt is my preference to end or limit the use of good character references in certain categories of offending, particularly domestic and sexual offending. My Department is, therefore, actively seeking to address the use of good character references, which will require legislation. In the meantime, I would urge everyone to exercise personal responsibility when it comes to providing character references for use by a court.","answerHtml":"It is a matter for the judiciary to determine what is relevant to the sentencing process. The purpose of character references under common law is to provide the court with insight into any factors that could mitigate the defendant's sentence.
This may be relevant when the defendant does not have a criminal history or a history of the same type of offence, but the courts have made it clear that personal circumstances should not normally rank highly in a serious case.
I acknowledge the potential inequalities, highlighted by the Gillen Review, between complainants and defendants in serious sexual offence cases, including the fact that the complainant’s testimony is often treated with disbelief and the defendant, who can call good character evidence, may seek to undermine their character or actions whereas the complainant is not accorded the right to call character evidence or witnesses on their behalf.
It is my preference to end or limit the use of good character references in certain categories of offending, particularly domestic and sexual offending. My Department is, therefore, actively seeking to address the use of good character references, which will require legislation. In the meantime, I would urge everyone to exercise personal responsibility when it comes to providing character references for use by a court.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021869%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426603","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426603"}},{"id":"426602","reference":"AQW 21868/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any training and guidance currently provided to (i) judges; and (ii) legal practitioners on the appropriate weight to be given to good character references in cases of sexual violence and abuse.","answerText":"My Department is not responsible for the training and guidance provided to judges or legal practitioners.\n\nThe Judicial Studies Board (JSB), chaired by a Lord Justice of Appeal, is responsible for judicial training in Northern Ireland. The aim of the JSB is to ensure as far as possible that judicial office holders are equipped with the skills and knowledge which they require to discharge their duties effectively.","answerHtml":"My Department is not responsible for the training and guidance provided to judges or legal practitioners.
The Judicial Studies Board (JSB), chaired by a Lord Justice of Appeal, is responsible for judicial training in Northern Ireland. The aim of the JSB is to ensure as far as possible that judicial office holders are equipped with the skills and knowledge which they require to discharge their duties effectively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021868%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426602"}},{"id":"426601","reference":"AQW 21867/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) any measures in place to ensure victims of sexual violence and abuse are supported throughout the court process; (ii) the number of victims that have availed of such services in the last five years; and (iii) any measures her Department has taken to promote such services.","answerText":"Sexual violence and abuse in any form is entirely unacceptable, and my Department is fully committed to collaborating with a range of other departments, agencies, local partnerships, and specialist organisations in the voluntary and community sector to support victims.\n\nLast September, the Health Minister and I jointly launched the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. One of the key components of this strategy is the Support and Provision Pillar, which focuses on assisting those impacted by domestic and/or sexual abuse, including addressing the broader effects on family and friends. This pillar emphasises understanding and accommodating the diverse needs of victims, ensuring services are victim-centred with an aim to provide tailored, responsive, and specialised support to help all victims recover and rebuild their lives.\n\nOther initiatives, services and measures to support victims of sexual crime include:\n\nSupporting victim support services\n\nMy Department annually provides over one million pounds to the Victim Support NI Witness Service and the NSPCC Young Witness Service to ensure that all prosecution witnesses and victims (including victims of sexual violence and abuse) attending court are offered emotional support and practical information. This includes a chance to visit the court before giving evidence, explaining the court process, accompanying the victim or witness into the courtroom or live link room, and offering the opportunity to talk when the case has ended.\n\nThe number of victims and witnesses supported over the past five years is set out below (please note, figures are for all crimes, not just offences of a sexual nature).\n\n2019-20\t2020-21\t2021-22\t2022-23\t2023-24\tTotal\nVictim Support NI Witness Service\t5,201\t1,751\t4,086\t4,332\t4,258\t19,628\nNSPCC Young Witness Service\t480\t206\t443\t412\t348\t1,889\nTotals\t5,681\t1,957\t4,529\t4,744\t4,606\t21,517\n\nFrom July 2023, my Department has provided funding of around £46K per annum to Victim Support NI for the continued delivery of the Children and Young People’s Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ChISVA) service.\n\n‘ChISVAs’ work closely with the PSNI, The Rowan (Sexual Assault Referral Centre), PPS, NSPCC Young Witness Service and other relevant organisations to provide advocacy and support to children and young people and their families who have been victims of sexual violence, including child sexual abuse and child sexual exploitation. From July 2023 to March 2024, 265 victims were supported by the ChISVA service.\n\nVictim Support NI and the NSPCC promote their services on their website, on social media and through posters and leaflets in suitable locations such as police stations and courthouses.\n\nThe Department raises awareness of these services through NI Direct, the Victims of Crime leaflet, the Victim and Witness Charters and other relevant departmental publications.\n\nAdvocacy Services\n\nMy Department contracted a new advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse in September 2021. The contract was awarded to ASSIST NI who work with criminal justice organisations and other victim support services to advocate on victims’ behalf, tailoring their service to each victim’s individual needs.\n\nSince September 2021, ASSIST NI has offered support and guidance to 5,030 victims.\n\nASSIST NI is a Northern Ireland-wide service with staff located in police stations across the region, as well as the Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre. They work closely with the PSNI to ensure victims are aware of their services and they promote their services on their website, on social media and through posters and leaflets in suitable locations.\n\nThe Department raises awareness of ASSIST NI through NI Direct, the Victims of Crime leaflet, the Victim and Witness Charters and other relevant departmental publications.\n\nSpecial Measures\n\nPursuant to Article 5 (5)(c) of The Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, victims of sexual offences are eligible to apply for Special Measures.\n\nSpecial Measures are a series of provisions that help vulnerable and intimidated witnesses give their best evidence in court and help to relieve some of the stresses associated with giving evidence. They include:\n\nScreens to shield the witness from the defendant.\n\nLive link facilities enable the witness to give evidence during the trial from outside the court through a televised link to the court room. The witness may be accommodated either within the court building or in a suitable location outside the court, such as a Remote Evidence Centre.\n\nThe removal of wigs and gowns by judges and barristers.\n\nVideo recorded evidence which allows the video recorded evidence of a witness to be played in court as the evidence in chief.\n\nA Registered Intermediary can be used to facilitate better communication between a witness and those asking questions of them. A Registered Intermediary can be involved during an ABE interview or during a court hearing. A Registered Intermediary can only be applied for where there is evidence to suggest that the victim has a communication difficulty.\n\nSince the scheme launched in May 2013, almost 10,000 people have benefitted from assistance from an RI, we know from statistics that on average, 40% of cases with RI support relate to sexual offences. Use of the service is growing annually and figures for the 5 previous years are set out below.\n\n2017/18\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nTotal\t705\t868\t1,155\t1,249\t1,264\n\nGillen Review Implementation Programme\n\nMeasures introduced through the Gillen Review implementation programme are helping to support victims of sexual offences and to raise their confidence in the justice system. These include:\n\nRemote Evidence Centres (RECs)\n\nRECs have been established in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry/Londonderry. RECs allow vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence from a secure and comfortable location and importantly, they help reduce the risk of re-traumatisation by removing the possibility that victims might encounter the defendant or their supporters in or around the courthouse on the day of the trial. All witnesses attending a REC are supported by VSNI Witness Support Service (for adults) or the NSPCC Young Witness Service (for children).\n\nFeedback from those who have used a REC has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying that without it, they would not have been able to give evidence or continue with their case.\n\nThe overall conviction rate for REC cases is also encouraging, with 91% of cases completed in 2024 resulting in a conviction, 62% by guilty plea without the need for the victim to give oral evidence.\n\nThe new Belfast REC was operationally ready from 9 May 2023 and was officially opened by the Lady Chief Justice on 28 September 2023. In 2023, there were a total of 33 trial bookings for the Belfast and Craigavon RECs, in 2024, there were 224. In 2023, 41 witnesses attended a REC to give evidence, in 2024, that figure was 344.\n\nThis increase is, in part, due to a concerted effort by my Department to raise awareness and promote the benefits of remote evidence facilities. This work has included over 60 promotional guided tours for those who support and have direct access to victims. The tours highlight the exceptional standard of the REC and potential benefits for victims. Other work includes the creation of social media videos to highlight REC facilities and additional information added to partner websites (PSNI, PPS, Victim Support groups) and to NI Direct.\n\nSexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) Scheme\n\nMy Department launched the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) service in April 2021. The scheme provides free, independent legal advice to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases. Feedback from service users has been overwhelmingly positive – noting that it has increased their confidence in the criminal justice system, improved their understanding of how the system works and proved instrumental for many in their decision to remain in the system until the conclusion of their case. An equivalent service to provide free legal advice to child victims and their families launched on 5 February 2025.\n\nTo date, 1,934 individuals have engaged with the scheme and have been assisted by a SOLA.\n\nPromotion of the service is part of the funding agreement between the Department and Victim Support NI. This is done via SOLA in-person outreach at universities, GP surgeries and community events such as the Balmoral Show, as well as advertisements on billboards, radio, social media, posters in and on buses and notices in local publications such as Parish bulletins and NI Young Farmers’ magazines.\n\nMy Department also includes information on SOLAs in relevant media briefings and shares posts on its social media channels. In addition, I officially launched the Children’s SOLA service on 5 February and the Department publicised the launch on social media and engaged with the local broadcast media to raise awareness of both the new children’s service, and the existing adult equivalent.\n\nThe NI Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act 2022\n\nThe introduction of several Gillen reforms in The NI Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act 2022 including the exclusion of the public from court in serious sexual offence trials and the extension of existing lifelong anonymity for victims until 25 years after death provides addition protection and support for victims.\n\nOther work under the Gillen programme aimed at supporting victims at other stages of the criminal justice process, includes improvements to Achieving Best Evidence (ABE) and Disclosure procedures, improved trauma-informed training for criminal justice staff and the legal profession who have direct contact with victims, the Under 13 Protocol which aims to expedite cases involving young victims and changes to committal legislation aimed reducing delay.\n\nThe Victim Charter\n\nThe Victim Charter sets out entitlements for all victims, including victims of sexual offences, to access to information, services and support. Key rights under the Charter include the right to be treated with dignity and respect; to be understood and to understand what is happening; to be told about available support; be provided with all the information they need and be given an opportunity for concerns to be addressed.\n\nMy Department operates an ongoing programme of awareness raising for the Charter. This has included in-person awareness sessions delivered to various groups and a multi-media advertising campaign in 2024.\n\nI will continue to ensure my Department takes steps to support all victims of sexual crime.","answerHtml":"Sexual violence and abuse in any form is entirely unacceptable, and my Department is fully committed to collaborating with a range of other departments, agencies, local partnerships, and specialist organisations in the voluntary and community sector to support victims.
Last September, the Health Minister and I jointly launched the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. One of the key components of this strategy is the Support and Provision Pillar, which focuses on assisting those impacted by domestic and/or sexual abuse, including addressing the broader effects on family and friends. This pillar emphasises understanding and accommodating the diverse needs of victims, ensuring services are victim-centred with an aim to provide tailored, responsive, and specialised support to help all victims recover and rebuild their lives.
Other initiatives, services and measures to support victims of sexual crime include:
Supporting victim support services
My Department annually provides over one million pounds to the Victim Support NI Witness Service and the NSPCC Young Witness Service to ensure that all prosecution witnesses and victims (including victims of sexual violence and abuse) attending court are offered emotional support and practical information. This includes a chance to visit the court before giving evidence, explaining the court process, accompanying the victim or witness into the courtroom or live link room, and offering the opportunity to talk when the case has ended.
The number of victims and witnesses supported over the past five years is set out below (please note, figures are for all crimes, not just offences of a sexual nature).
| 2019-20 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | 2022-23 | 2023-24 | Total | |
| Victim Support NI Witness Service | 5,201 | 1,751 | 4,086 | 4,332 | 4,258 | 19,628 |
| NSPCC Young Witness Service | 480 | 206 | 443 | 412 | 348 | 1,889 |
| Totals | 5,681 | 1,957 | 4,529 | 4,744 | 4,606 | 21,517 |
From July 2023, my Department has provided funding of around £46K per annum to Victim Support NI for the continued delivery of the Children and Young People’s Independent Sexual Violence Advocate (ChISVA) service.
‘ChISVAs’ work closely with the PSNI, The Rowan (Sexual Assault Referral Centre), PPS, NSPCC Young Witness Service and other relevant organisations to provide advocacy and support to children and young people and their families who have been victims of sexual violence, including child sexual abuse and child sexual exploitation. From July 2023 to March 2024, 265 victims were supported by the ChISVA service.
Victim Support NI and the NSPCC promote their services on their website, on social media and through posters and leaflets in suitable locations such as police stations and courthouses.
The Department raises awareness of these services through NI Direct, the Victims of Crime leaflet, the Victim and Witness Charters and other relevant departmental publications.
Advocacy Services
My Department contracted a new advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse in September 2021. The contract was awarded to ASSIST NI who work with criminal justice organisations and other victim support services to advocate on victims’ behalf, tailoring their service to each victim’s individual needs.
Since September 2021, ASSIST NI has offered support and guidance to 5,030 victims.
ASSIST NI is a Northern Ireland-wide service with staff located in police stations across the region, as well as the Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre. They work closely with the PSNI to ensure victims are aware of their services and they promote their services on their website, on social media and through posters and leaflets in suitable locations.
The Department raises awareness of ASSIST NI through NI Direct, the Victims of Crime leaflet, the Victim and Witness Charters and other relevant departmental publications.
Special Measures
Pursuant to Article 5 (5)(c) of The Criminal Evidence (Northern Ireland) Order 1999, victims of sexual offences are eligible to apply for Special Measures.
Special Measures are a series of provisions that help vulnerable and intimidated witnesses give their best evidence in court and help to relieve some of the stresses associated with giving evidence. They include:
Screens to shield the witness from the defendant.
Live link facilities enable the witness to give evidence during the trial from outside the court through a televised link to the court room. The witness may be accommodated either within the court building or in a suitable location outside the court, such as a Remote Evidence Centre.
The removal of wigs and gowns by judges and barristers.
Video recorded evidence which allows the video recorded evidence of a witness to be played in court as the evidence in chief.
A Registered Intermediary can be used to facilitate better communication between a witness and those asking questions of them. A Registered Intermediary can be involved during an ABE interview or during a court hearing. A Registered Intermediary can only be applied for where there is evidence to suggest that the victim has a communication difficulty.
Since the scheme launched in May 2013, almost 10,000 people have benefitted from assistance from an RI, we know from statistics that on average, 40% of cases with RI support relate to sexual offences. Use of the service is growing annually and figures for the 5 previous years are set out below.
| 2017/18 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| Total | 705 | 868 | 1,155 | 1,249 | 1,264 |
Gillen Review Implementation Programme
Measures introduced through the Gillen Review implementation programme are helping to support victims of sexual offences and to raise their confidence in the justice system. These include:
Remote Evidence Centres (RECs)
RECs have been established in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry/Londonderry. RECs allow vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence from a secure and comfortable location and importantly, they help reduce the risk of re-traumatisation by removing the possibility that victims might encounter the defendant or their supporters in or around the courthouse on the day of the trial. All witnesses attending a REC are supported by VSNI Witness Support Service (for adults) or the NSPCC Young Witness Service (for children).
Feedback from those who have used a REC has been overwhelmingly positive, with many saying that without it, they would not have been able to give evidence or continue with their case.
The overall conviction rate for REC cases is also encouraging, with 91% of cases completed in 2024 resulting in a conviction, 62% by guilty plea without the need for the victim to give oral evidence.
The new Belfast REC was operationally ready from 9 May 2023 and was officially opened by the Lady Chief Justice on 28 September 2023. In 2023, there were a total of 33 trial bookings for the Belfast and Craigavon RECs, in 2024, there were 224. In 2023, 41 witnesses attended a REC to give evidence, in 2024, that figure was 344.
This increase is, in part, due to a concerted effort by my Department to raise awareness and promote the benefits of remote evidence facilities. This work has included over 60 promotional guided tours for those who support and have direct access to victims. The tours highlight the exceptional standard of the REC and potential benefits for victims. Other work includes the creation of social media videos to highlight REC facilities and additional information added to partner websites (PSNI, PPS, Victim Support groups) and to NI Direct.
Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) Scheme
My Department launched the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) service in April 2021. The scheme provides free, independent legal advice to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases. Feedback from service users has been overwhelmingly positive – noting that it has increased their confidence in the criminal justice system, improved their understanding of how the system works and proved instrumental for many in their decision to remain in the system until the conclusion of their case. An equivalent service to provide free legal advice to child victims and their families launched on 5 February 2025.
To date, 1,934 individuals have engaged with the scheme and have been assisted by a SOLA.
Promotion of the service is part of the funding agreement between the Department and Victim Support NI. This is done via SOLA in-person outreach at universities, GP surgeries and community events such as the Balmoral Show, as well as advertisements on billboards, radio, social media, posters in and on buses and notices in local publications such as Parish bulletins and NI Young Farmers’ magazines.
My Department also includes information on SOLAs in relevant media briefings and shares posts on its social media channels. In addition, I officially launched the Children’s SOLA service on 5 February and the Department publicised the launch on social media and engaged with the local broadcast media to raise awareness of both the new children’s service, and the existing adult equivalent.
The NI Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act 2022
The introduction of several Gillen reforms in The NI Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act 2022 including the exclusion of the public from court in serious sexual offence trials and the extension of existing lifelong anonymity for victims until 25 years after death provides addition protection and support for victims.
Other work under the Gillen programme aimed at supporting victims at other stages of the criminal justice process, includes improvements to Achieving Best Evidence (ABE) and Disclosure procedures, improved trauma-informed training for criminal justice staff and the legal profession who have direct contact with victims, the Under 13 Protocol which aims to expedite cases involving young victims and changes to committal legislation aimed reducing delay.
The Victim Charter
The Victim Charter sets out entitlements for all victims, including victims of sexual offences, to access to information, services and support. Key rights under the Charter include the right to be treated with dignity and respect; to be understood and to understand what is happening; to be told about available support; be provided with all the information they need and be given an opportunity for concerns to be addressed.
My Department operates an ongoing programme of awareness raising for the Charter. This has included in-person awareness sessions delivered to various groups and a multi-media advertising campaign in 2024.
I will continue to ensure my Department takes steps to support all victims of sexual crime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021867%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426601","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426601"}},{"id":"426600","reference":"AQW 21866/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department has engaged with the PSNI in relation to low conviction rates for sexual offences.","answerText":"There is ongoing engagement between my Department, the PSNI and other criminal justice organisations to address a range of issues relating to sexual offences, including conviction rates.\n\nA number of measures have been or are being progressed in partnership with the PSNI. I anticipate that, collectively, these measures will increase victims’ confidence in the criminal justice system, improve their experience and contribute to reducing attrition. Consequently, they are therefore likely to impact positively on conviction rates. These measures include:\n\nresearch into attrition to understand the scale and the reasons for victims of sexual offences disengaging from the criminal justice process. This research is being conducted in partnership with the PSNI and PPS with an initial report expected before the end of March. The report will be used to inform future policies aimed at reducing attrition and therefore potentially increasing convictions; and,\n\nnew interventions, including those under the Gillen Review implementation programme, that are helping to support victims and to raise their confidence in the justice system. Examples of these include:\n\nthe establishment of Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry/Londonderry. RECs allow vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence from a secure and comfortable location and importantly, they help reduce the risk of re-traumatisation by removing the possibility that victims might encounter the defendant or their supporters in or around the courthouse on the day of the trial. The overall conviction rate for REC cases stands at 91%, with 62% by guilty plea without the need for the victim to give oral evidence;\n\nnew legislation to protect the anonymity of complainants and victims of serious sexual offences by excluding the public from Crown Court hearings, as well as any subsequent appeal; and,\n\nwork with PSNI to raise awareness of the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) service, which my Department launched in April 2021. The scheme provides free, independent legal advice to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases. It has so far provided advice to over 2,000 adult complainants and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many telling us that without SOLA support they would have not continued with their case. An equivalent service to provide free legal advice to child victims and their families launched on 5 February 2025.\n\nMy Department has also engaged with PSNI and other criminal justice partners to inform the development and introduction of new specific offences to strengthen the law and provide additional tools for law enforcement in response to sexual offending. This includes the introduction of new laws to deal with behaviours commonly referred to as upskirting, downblousing and cyber-flashing as well as new laws around stalking and non-fatal strangulation.\n\nThese new laws will provide greater protections to individuals at risk, but they also strengthen the ability of police to respond to these crimes and to seek convictions which could lead to up to two years in prison for perpetrators and, where committed to obtain sexual gratification, can result in the most serious offenders being placed on the sex offenders’ register for up to 10 years.\n\nThe PSNI is represented on the Strategic Oversight Board for the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, the Programme Board for the Gillen Review Implementation Programme and the Advocacy Service Board, which oversees the contract awarded to ASSIST NI to deliver advocacy support to victims of domestic and sexual abuse across Northern Ireland.\n\nAll of this work is intended to ensure victims of sexual offences are fully supported, remain within the justice system and achieve a positive outcome.\n\nI am also aware that the PSNI is currently working with the PPS to develop and implement a new joint strategy and action plan on the investigation and prosecution of serious sexual offences. This will set out and inform best practice in the investigation and prosecution of sexual crime, with a focus on further reducing delay and improving victims’ experiences.\n\nMy officials will continue to engage regularly with their PSNI counterparts.","answerHtml":"There is ongoing engagement between my Department, the PSNI and other criminal justice organisations to address a range of issues relating to sexual offences, including conviction rates.
A number of measures have been or are being progressed in partnership with the PSNI. I anticipate that, collectively, these measures will increase victims’ confidence in the criminal justice system, improve their experience and contribute to reducing attrition. Consequently, they are therefore likely to impact positively on conviction rates. These measures include:
research into attrition to understand the scale and the reasons for victims of sexual offences disengaging from the criminal justice process. This research is being conducted in partnership with the PSNI and PPS with an initial report expected before the end of March. The report will be used to inform future policies aimed at reducing attrition and therefore potentially increasing convictions; and,
new interventions, including those under the Gillen Review implementation programme, that are helping to support victims and to raise their confidence in the justice system. Examples of these include:
the establishment of Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) in Belfast and Craigavon, in addition to the existing NSPCC-led facility in Derry/Londonderry. RECs allow vulnerable witnesses to give their best evidence from a secure and comfortable location and importantly, they help reduce the risk of re-traumatisation by removing the possibility that victims might encounter the defendant or their supporters in or around the courthouse on the day of the trial. The overall conviction rate for REC cases stands at 91%, with 62% by guilty plea without the need for the victim to give oral evidence;
new legislation to protect the anonymity of complainants and victims of serious sexual offences by excluding the public from Crown Court hearings, as well as any subsequent appeal; and,
work with PSNI to raise awareness of the Sexual Offences Legal Adviser (SOLA) service, which my Department launched in April 2021. The scheme provides free, independent legal advice to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases. It has so far provided advice to over 2,000 adult complainants and feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many telling us that without SOLA support they would have not continued with their case. An equivalent service to provide free legal advice to child victims and their families launched on 5 February 2025.
My Department has also engaged with PSNI and other criminal justice partners to inform the development and introduction of new specific offences to strengthen the law and provide additional tools for law enforcement in response to sexual offending. This includes the introduction of new laws to deal with behaviours commonly referred to as upskirting, downblousing and cyber-flashing as well as new laws around stalking and non-fatal strangulation.
These new laws will provide greater protections to individuals at risk, but they also strengthen the ability of police to respond to these crimes and to seek convictions which could lead to up to two years in prison for perpetrators and, where committed to obtain sexual gratification, can result in the most serious offenders being placed on the sex offenders’ register for up to 10 years.
The PSNI is represented on the Strategic Oversight Board for the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, the Programme Board for the Gillen Review Implementation Programme and the Advocacy Service Board, which oversees the contract awarded to ASSIST NI to deliver advocacy support to victims of domestic and sexual abuse across Northern Ireland.
All of this work is intended to ensure victims of sexual offences are fully supported, remain within the justice system and achieve a positive outcome.
I am also aware that the PSNI is currently working with the PPS to develop and implement a new joint strategy and action plan on the investigation and prosecution of serious sexual offences. This will set out and inform best practice in the investigation and prosecution of sexual crime, with a focus on further reducing delay and improving victims’ experiences.
My officials will continue to engage regularly with their PSNI counterparts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021866%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426600"}},{"id":"426599","reference":"AQW 21865/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-04","answerBy":"2025-02-19","answered":"2025-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any measures her Department is taking to tackle the growing issue of sexual violence and abuse within digital spaces, including the spread of non-consensual intimate images and online misogynistic abuse.","answerText":"Sexual violence and abuse in any form is totally unacceptable. I am mindful of the growing prevalence of online violence and abuse as our modern technologies continue to advance at a concerning rate, and that the majority of such abuse is targeted against females. While online safety is a reserved matter, I look for opportunities that are available within the devolved space to strengthen the law to help provide further protections from sexual predators.\n\nThere is already a comprehensive and robust legal framework for sexual offences in place in Northern Ireland, which is contained, for the most part, within the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008. The offences address both online and offline behaviour.\n\nI strengthened the law in the last Assembly mandate by introducing a range of new offences via the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, to include upskirting, downblousing, cyber flashing as well as four new offences designed to tackle the particular behaviour of an adult pretending to be a child for the purposes of child sexual grooming, which are unique to Northern Ireland. I also reinforced the offence of disclosure of private sexual images, more commonly referred to as ‘revenge porn’, by bringing threatening to disclose within its definition.\n\nI have been in contact with the UK Government on a range of proposals intended for its upcoming Crime and Policing Bill. This included a proposal to introduce a new offence of creating a sexually explicit deepfake image without consent which I was keen to extend to Northern Ireland. However, this proposal has since been brought forward for England and Wales by way of amendment to the current Data (Access and Use) Bill tabled by the UK Government on 22 January 2025. As we were not made aware of this change of plan by the UK Government in advance, I am now considering the implications for Northern Ireland. I remain committed to strengthening the protection for victims of deepfake imagery.","answerHtml":"Sexual violence and abuse in any form is totally unacceptable. I am mindful of the growing prevalence of online violence and abuse as our modern technologies continue to advance at a concerning rate, and that the majority of such abuse is targeted against females. While online safety is a reserved matter, I look for opportunities that are available within the devolved space to strengthen the law to help provide further protections from sexual predators.
There is already a comprehensive and robust legal framework for sexual offences in place in Northern Ireland, which is contained, for the most part, within the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008. The offences address both online and offline behaviour.
I strengthened the law in the last Assembly mandate by introducing a range of new offences via the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, to include upskirting, downblousing, cyber flashing as well as four new offences designed to tackle the particular behaviour of an adult pretending to be a child for the purposes of child sexual grooming, which are unique to Northern Ireland. I also reinforced the offence of disclosure of private sexual images, more commonly referred to as ‘revenge porn’, by bringing threatening to disclose within its definition.
I have been in contact with the UK Government on a range of proposals intended for its upcoming Crime and Policing Bill. This included a proposal to introduce a new offence of creating a sexually explicit deepfake image without consent which I was keen to extend to Northern Ireland. However, this proposal has since been brought forward for England and Wales by way of amendment to the current Data (Access and Use) Bill tabled by the UK Government on 22 January 2025. As we were not made aware of this change of plan by the UK Government in advance, I am now considering the implications for Northern Ireland. I remain committed to strengthening the protection for victims of deepfake imagery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021865%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426599","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426599"}},{"id":"426309","reference":"AQW 21802/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-03","answerBy":"2025-02-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on how his Department intends to secure and allocate sufficient funding to fully implement the Cancer Strategy for Northern Ireland 2022-2032, ensuring that resources are effectively distributed between prevention and treatment initiatives.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021802%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426309"}},{"id":"426308","reference":"AQW 21801/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-03","answerBy":"2025-02-18","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures his Department is taking to ensure equal access to cancer diagnosis and treatment services for patients in rural areas.","answerText":"My department is committed to ensuring equitable and timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment services for all. The majority of cancer patients have access to diagnostics, cancer surgery and Systematic Anti-Cancer treatment (SACT: chemotherapy and immunotherapy) within their home trusts. Patients may need to travel outside their Health & Social Care Trust area of residence to access more specialised treatments such as radiotherapy at the NI Cancer Centre and the North West Cancer Centre, or for advanced surgical or tertiary treatments in specialist centres.\n\nSince the pandemic, many treatment services have increased efforts to assess and review patients via virtual appointments where feasible. Additionally, where clinically appropriate, prescriptions have changed to oral treatments and longer administration intervals to reduce the frequency of hospital visits. Plans are also being developed for patient self-administration of some SACT treatments. Some trusts also offer SACT medicines delivery service, or a medicine vending facility to reduce frequency of hospital visits, or waits at hospital.\n\nAs outlined in the ‘Health and Social Care NI: A three-year plan’. I state my commitment to addressing health inequalities. I am seeking to bring care closer to home where feasible. Having easier access to services by locating them in the community will be an important part of achieving greater population health and wellbeing. Out of hospital care is part of the overall long-term direction of health service reform. Where a patient requires on-going treatment and care following a cancer diagnosis, the development of ambulatory care services, or phlebotomy hubs as outlined in the NI Cancer Strategy will help to achieve this, however these developments will be dependent on cancer strategy funding.\n\nThere has been a significant increase in referrals for suspect cancers since 2019/20. Workforce capacity issues in several specialisms integral to cancer diagnosis including, endoscopy, radiology and pathology have inevitably impacted diagnostic demand and waits, potentially affecting patient outcomes. To ensure patients have faster access to diagnostics, some services will need to operate from a smaller number of sites. New regional initiatives to improve timely access to diagnostics, such as Elective Day Procedure Centres and Rapid Diagnosis Centres have been developed.\n\nSome patients are eligible for financial support with travel costs and this can often be means tested. Patients who are travelling long distances for appointments will be made aware of travel support available to them (e.g. travel costs if eligible, parking costs, and volunteer driver services).\n\nMy department has also funded the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry at Queens University to develop a Routes to Diagnosis project. This project aims to identify the key event in each cancer patient’s pathway that most directly led to their cancer diagnosis, whether through GP red flag referral, screening programmes, emergency departments, or other routes. This research will highlight any demographic inequalities that may need to be addressed. The Northern Ireland Cancer Registry are now working on a report for patients diagnosed 2018 -2021, which will provide analysis on cancer patients’ routes to diagnosis, analysed by rural and urban location.","answerHtml":"My department is committed to ensuring equitable and timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment services for all. The majority of cancer patients have access to diagnostics, cancer surgery and Systematic Anti-Cancer treatment (SACT: chemotherapy and immunotherapy) within their home trusts. Patients may need to travel outside their Health & Social Care Trust area of residence to access more specialised treatments such as radiotherapy at the NI Cancer Centre and the North West Cancer Centre, or for advanced surgical or tertiary treatments in specialist centres.
Since the pandemic, many treatment services have increased efforts to assess and review patients via virtual appointments where feasible. Additionally, where clinically appropriate, prescriptions have changed to oral treatments and longer administration intervals to reduce the frequency of hospital visits. Plans are also being developed for patient self-administration of some SACT treatments. Some trusts also offer SACT medicines delivery service, or a medicine vending facility to reduce frequency of hospital visits, or waits at hospital.
As outlined in the ‘Health and Social Care NI: A three-year plan’. I state my commitment to addressing health inequalities. I am seeking to bring care closer to home where feasible. Having easier access to services by locating them in the community will be an important part of achieving greater population health and wellbeing. Out of hospital care is part of the overall long-term direction of health service reform. Where a patient requires on-going treatment and care following a cancer diagnosis, the development of ambulatory care services, or phlebotomy hubs as outlined in the NI Cancer Strategy will help to achieve this, however these developments will be dependent on cancer strategy funding.
There has been a significant increase in referrals for suspect cancers since 2019/20. Workforce capacity issues in several specialisms integral to cancer diagnosis including, endoscopy, radiology and pathology have inevitably impacted diagnostic demand and waits, potentially affecting patient outcomes. To ensure patients have faster access to diagnostics, some services will need to operate from a smaller number of sites. New regional initiatives to improve timely access to diagnostics, such as Elective Day Procedure Centres and Rapid Diagnosis Centres have been developed.
Some patients are eligible for financial support with travel costs and this can often be means tested. Patients who are travelling long distances for appointments will be made aware of travel support available to them (e.g. travel costs if eligible, parking costs, and volunteer driver services).
My department has also funded the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry at Queens University to develop a Routes to Diagnosis project. This project aims to identify the key event in each cancer patient’s pathway that most directly led to their cancer diagnosis, whether through GP red flag referral, screening programmes, emergency departments, or other routes. This research will highlight any demographic inequalities that may need to be addressed. The Northern Ireland Cancer Registry are now working on a report for patients diagnosed 2018 -2021, which will provide analysis on cancer patients’ routes to diagnosis, analysed by rural and urban location.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021801%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426308","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426308"}},{"id":"426307","reference":"AQW 21800/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-03","answerBy":"2025-02-18","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any investment his Department is making in community-based cancer care services, to support early diagnosis and reduce the need for patients in rural areas to travel long distances for treatment.","answerText":"My department has provided investment of £10.7 million through the Cancer Charities Support Fund to support cancer charities in providing a wide range of support services. Projects cover all areas in the cancer pathway, from pre-diagnosis through to palliative and end of life care. These are key initiatives towards the implementation of the Cancer Strategy, and important in working towards my Department’s aim of building cancer service capacity in communities.\n\nTrust cancer treatment services are enhancing patient care by increasing virtual appointments, switching to oral treatments and extending medicines administration intervals, where clinically appropriate. This will reduce the frequency of hospital visits and need to travel. A number of Trusts also have a Systemic Anti-Cancer Medicines (SACT: chemotherapy and immunotherapy) home delivery service. A policy is also being developed in 2025 for patient self-administration of some SACT treatments.\n\nRegional initiatives like Elective Day Procedure Centres and Rapid Diagnosis Centres aim to speed up diagnostics. Some patients may need to travel further, but they will be informed about available travel support, such as help with travel and parking costs, and volunteer driver services.\n\nThe ‘Health and Social Care NI: A three-year plan: to stabilise reform and deliver’, aims to address health inequalities and aims to bring care ‘closer to home’ where feasible. For cancer patients, this includes development of ambulatory care services, or phlebotomy hubs as outlined in the NI Cancer Strategy. However, these developments will be dependent on cancer strategy funding\n\nThe new Integrated Care System is forming Area Integrated Partnerships bringing together Health and Social Care, the voluntary and community sector, local Government and service users and carers. These partnerships will focus on prevention, early intervention and community health and well-being. Rollout has commenced and is expected to complete in 2025.","answerHtml":"My department has provided investment of £10.7 million through the Cancer Charities Support Fund to support cancer charities in providing a wide range of support services. Projects cover all areas in the cancer pathway, from pre-diagnosis through to palliative and end of life care. These are key initiatives towards the implementation of the Cancer Strategy, and important in working towards my Department’s aim of building cancer service capacity in communities.
Trust cancer treatment services are enhancing patient care by increasing virtual appointments, switching to oral treatments and extending medicines administration intervals, where clinically appropriate. This will reduce the frequency of hospital visits and need to travel. A number of Trusts also have a Systemic Anti-Cancer Medicines (SACT: chemotherapy and immunotherapy) home delivery service. A policy is also being developed in 2025 for patient self-administration of some SACT treatments.
Regional initiatives like Elective Day Procedure Centres and Rapid Diagnosis Centres aim to speed up diagnostics. Some patients may need to travel further, but they will be informed about available travel support, such as help with travel and parking costs, and volunteer driver services.
The ‘Health and Social Care NI: A three-year plan: to stabilise reform and deliver’, aims to address health inequalities and aims to bring care ‘closer to home’ where feasible. For cancer patients, this includes development of ambulatory care services, or phlebotomy hubs as outlined in the NI Cancer Strategy. However, these developments will be dependent on cancer strategy funding
The new Integrated Care System is forming Area Integrated Partnerships bringing together Health and Social Care, the voluntary and community sector, local Government and service users and carers. These partnerships will focus on prevention, early intervention and community health and well-being. Rollout has commenced and is expected to complete in 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021800%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426307"}},{"id":"426306","reference":"AQW 21799/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-03","answerBy":"2025-02-18","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department plans to strengthen early intervention and screening programmes to identify at-risk individuals and prevent the progression of preventable cancers.","answerText":"Health inequalities is one of my key areas of focus and the ‘Live Better’ approach designed to tackle health inequalities by bringing targeted health support to communities which need it most. The approach is focusing initially on Health and Social Care services and will look at better alignment of, and access to, existing resources and services. Early intervention and prevention will be key components of the Live Better approach.\n\nThere are currently three cancer screening programmes in Northern Ireland: bowel, breast and cervical cancer. A fourth programme, a targeted lung screening programme for those at higher risk of disease, is at the early stages of development.\n\nThe Cancer Strategy for Northern Ireland (2022-32) contains three recommendations relating to screening programmes, in line with the UK National Screening Committee’s (UK NSC) recommendations:\n\nAction 7: Reduce sensitivity levels and extend the age range for the bowel screening programme;\n\nAction 8: Implement HPV testing in the cervical screening programme; and\n\nAction 10: implement all UK National Screening Committee recommendations.\n\nThe NI Cervical Screening Programme introduced HPV testing in December 2023 and I recently announced in my three-year strategic plan for health and social care, targets for the bowel screening and lung screening programmes doh-hsc-3-year-plan.pdf.\n\nMy Department will continue to be guided by the recommendations of the UK NSC. However, as with all screening programmes, screening is for people without symptoms. People who are concerned about, or are experiencing any unusual symptoms, should seek advice from their GP.\n\nFor people experiencing symptoms referred by their GP, in addition to the usual referral routes into specialist hospital services, two Rapid Diagnosis Centres (RDCs) are currently in operation, delivering a regional service for patients with vague but concerning symptoms that could indicate cancer.\n\nThe RDCs aim to see the patient within 14 days from the date of the GP referral which is significantly faster than the majority of tumour specific red flag referrals. Officials are currently seeking to identify and assess several proposals for red flag cancer pathways that could benefit from being delivered through an RDC. Using the RDC model to deliver elements of these pathways has the potential to diagnose patients faster, shorten treatment pathway times and reduce wating lists.","answerHtml":"Health inequalities is one of my key areas of focus and the ‘Live Better’ approach designed to tackle health inequalities by bringing targeted health support to communities which need it most. The approach is focusing initially on Health and Social Care services and will look at better alignment of, and access to, existing resources and services. Early intervention and prevention will be key components of the Live Better approach.
There are currently three cancer screening programmes in Northern Ireland: bowel, breast and cervical cancer. A fourth programme, a targeted lung screening programme for those at higher risk of disease, is at the early stages of development.
The Cancer Strategy for Northern Ireland (2022-32) contains three recommendations relating to screening programmes, in line with the UK National Screening Committee’s (UK NSC) recommendations:
Action 7: Reduce sensitivity levels and extend the age range for the bowel screening programme;
Action 8: Implement HPV testing in the cervical screening programme; and
Action 10: implement all UK National Screening Committee recommendations.
The NI Cervical Screening Programme introduced HPV testing in December 2023 and I recently announced in my three-year strategic plan for health and social care, targets for the bowel screening and lung screening programmes doh-hsc-3-year-plan.pdf.
My Department will continue to be guided by the recommendations of the UK NSC. However, as with all screening programmes, screening is for people without symptoms. People who are concerned about, or are experiencing any unusual symptoms, should seek advice from their GP.
For people experiencing symptoms referred by their GP, in addition to the usual referral routes into specialist hospital services, two Rapid Diagnosis Centres (RDCs) are currently in operation, delivering a regional service for patients with vague but concerning symptoms that could indicate cancer.
The RDCs aim to see the patient within 14 days from the date of the GP referral which is significantly faster than the majority of tumour specific red flag referrals. Officials are currently seeking to identify and assess several proposals for red flag cancer pathways that could benefit from being delivered through an RDC. Using the RDC model to deliver elements of these pathways has the potential to diagnose patients faster, shorten treatment pathway times and reduce wating lists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021799%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426306"}},{"id":"426305","reference":"AQW 21798/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-02-03","answerBy":"2025-02-18","answered":"2025-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on any steps being taken to raise public awareness of the risks associated with ultraviolet exposure, particularly amongst (i) outdoor workers; and (ii) young people.","answerText":"Skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland, but in the majority of cases it can be effectively treated if detected at an early stage. Over exposure to UV radiation is widely accepted as the underlying cause for skin cancer and experts believe that four out of five cases could be prevented by adopting simple precautions.\n\nA key aim of the Department’s Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy and Action Plan is to raise public awareness of the dangers of over exposure to UV. The Public Health Agency host a Care in the Sun Website which promotes sun safe behaviour and UV awareness, and the Department also works closely with Cancer Focus Northern Ireland (CFNI) who also engage the public to raise awareness of the harms of UV and promote good sun safety behaviours.\n\nIn 2024/25 CFNI promoted key messages to target groups including outdoor workers, sporting clubs and outdoor sports centres. Awareness sessions were delivered across 127 venues to 14,102 people participating in outdoor activities and sports. Furthermore, CFNI presented at an annual Build Health Conference in 2024 to promote the importance of sun safety for outdoor workers. A Be UV Aware campaign has also seen a variety of media activities targeted at raising public awareness of the dangers of UV exposure in particular adolescents aged 16+.\n\nWe will continue to liaise with the PHA and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland to co-ordinate future media activities to better raise public awareness of the dangers of UV exposure.","answerHtml":"Skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland, but in the majority of cases it can be effectively treated if detected at an early stage. Over exposure to UV radiation is widely accepted as the underlying cause for skin cancer and experts believe that four out of five cases could be prevented by adopting simple precautions.
A key aim of the Department’s Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy and Action Plan is to raise public awareness of the dangers of over exposure to UV. The Public Health Agency host a Care in the Sun Website which promotes sun safe behaviour and UV awareness, and the Department also works closely with Cancer Focus Northern Ireland (CFNI) who also engage the public to raise awareness of the harms of UV and promote good sun safety behaviours.
In 2024/25 CFNI promoted key messages to target groups including outdoor workers, sporting clubs and outdoor sports centres. Awareness sessions were delivered across 127 venues to 14,102 people participating in outdoor activities and sports. Furthermore, CFNI presented at an annual Build Health Conference in 2024 to promote the importance of sun safety for outdoor workers. A Be UV Aware campaign has also seen a variety of media activities targeted at raising public awareness of the dangers of UV exposure in particular adolescents aged 16+.
We will continue to liaise with the PHA and Cancer Focus Northern Ireland to co-ordinate future media activities to better raise public awareness of the dangers of UV exposure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021798%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426305"}},{"id":"426123","reference":"AQW 21729/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-31","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail when he anticipates the procurement process for Project Gigabit to be completed.","answerText":"The procurement for Project Gigabit commenced on 11 November 2024, with an invitation to interested suppliers to complete a selection questionnaire to demonstrate their capacity and capability to deliver such a contract. Those suppliers who meet the published criteria of the selection questionnaire will be invited to submit a response to the requirements of the Invitation to Tender for the project. The procurement will seek a supplier to address an initial scope of approximately 11,000 premises. My Department expects to award a contract for Project Gigabit in the coming months, subject to compliant bids being made, bids meeting the published criteria, and all necessary approvals being agreed.","answerHtml":"The procurement for Project Gigabit commenced on 11 November 2024, with an invitation to interested suppliers to complete a selection questionnaire to demonstrate their capacity and capability to deliver such a contract. Those suppliers who meet the published criteria of the selection questionnaire will be invited to submit a response to the requirements of the Invitation to Tender for the project. The procurement will seek a supplier to address an initial scope of approximately 11,000 premises. My Department expects to award a contract for Project Gigabit in the coming months, subject to compliant bids being made, bids meeting the published criteria, and all necessary approvals being agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021729%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426123"}},{"id":"426122","reference":"AQW 21728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-31","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether his Department plans to engage with local businesses to maximise the opportunities that will arise from The Open at Royal Portrush Golf Club 2025.","answerText":"Tourism NI, on behalf of my Department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019, which was over £100 million of combined economic and media benefit.\n\nThe Open in 2025 is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors and will showcase the North as a destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come.\n\nDelivery of an industry engagement programme has begun in the lead up to the event, in partnership with local authorities to assist and advise traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present.\n\nWorking in close collaboration with the R&A, the intention is to nurture workforce opportunities that will have a legacy beyond July 2025, through skills development and employment before, during and after the event, as well as volunteering across the event week. Discussions are progressing with Derry and Strabane Labour Market Partnership to ensure that opportunities are realised across the region.\n\nTourism NI is supporting the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign and e-learning platform. In addition, they are working with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the North to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.\n\nIn partnership with Tourism Ireland, Tourism NI will deliver a comprehensive PR and marketing campaign locally, nationally and globally, in the lead up to, during and after the event.\n\nAside from the world-class golf offering, other experiences across the North will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions and entertainment. In collaboration with Invest NI, a programme of activity will also be delivered to support the presentation of our unique and compelling inward investment proposition.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI, on behalf of my Department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019, which was over £100 million of combined economic and media benefit.
The Open in 2025 is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors and will showcase the North as a destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come.
Delivery of an industry engagement programme has begun in the lead up to the event, in partnership with local authorities to assist and advise traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present.
Working in close collaboration with the R&A, the intention is to nurture workforce opportunities that will have a legacy beyond July 2025, through skills development and employment before, during and after the event, as well as volunteering across the event week. Discussions are progressing with Derry and Strabane Labour Market Partnership to ensure that opportunities are realised across the region.
Tourism NI is supporting the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign and e-learning platform. In addition, they are working with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the North to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.
In partnership with Tourism Ireland, Tourism NI will deliver a comprehensive PR and marketing campaign locally, nationally and globally, in the lead up to, during and after the event.
Aside from the world-class golf offering, other experiences across the North will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions and entertainment. In collaboration with Invest NI, a programme of activity will also be delivered to support the presentation of our unique and compelling inward investment proposition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426122"}},{"id":"426121","reference":"AQW 21727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-31","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for his assessment of the efficacy of current sea defences located on Portstewart's promenade.","answerText":"My Department does not have any sea defences associated with Portstewart promenade. A retaining wall separates the upper and lower promenade; however, this structure is designed to support the carriageway and not as coastal flooding protection.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have any sea defences associated with Portstewart promenade. A retaining wall separates the upper and lower promenade; however, this structure is designed to support the carriageway and not as coastal flooding protection.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426121"}},{"id":"426120","reference":"AQW 21726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-31","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the redevelopment of HMP Magilligan.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) is continuing to progress business cases for a new kitchen and café plus a 60 cell wing at Magilligan. The Outline Business Case 1 for the kitchen and café is currently being considered as part of the approval process, with the business case for the 60 Cell wing at an early stage.\n\nIn addition to these projects, NIPS has developed a masterplan for the wider Magilligan site to determine the location of a new Welcome and Visits Centre, Independent living Units, a new Energy Centre and an Administration/Emergency Control Room building.\n\nThe progression of these projects will support continued efforts by NIPS to provide an efficient, effective, modern and affordable service which is focused on the development of staff and the rehabilitation of people in its custody.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) is continuing to progress business cases for a new kitchen and café plus a 60 cell wing at Magilligan. The Outline Business Case 1 for the kitchen and café is currently being considered as part of the approval process, with the business case for the 60 Cell wing at an early stage.
In addition to these projects, NIPS has developed a masterplan for the wider Magilligan site to determine the location of a new Welcome and Visits Centre, Independent living Units, a new Energy Centre and an Administration/Emergency Control Room building.
The progression of these projects will support continued efforts by NIPS to provide an efficient, effective, modern and affordable service which is focused on the development of staff and the rehabilitation of people in its custody.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426120"}},{"id":"426119","reference":"AQW 21725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-31","answerBy":"2025-02-17","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any consideration his Department has given to extending current railway provision to Limavady town centre.","answerText":"The All-Island Strategic Rail Review recommended that consideration be given to developing new stations in the Derry~Londonderry city region, including Limavady. This has been identified as medium-term intervention by the Review i.e. to be delivered between 2030 and 2040. However, more work will be needed to test the feasibility and affordability of the Review’s recommendations, determine an optimum sequencing for the delivery of projects, and secure the necessary funding to take projects forward.\n\nThe Department is continuing to work with colleagues in the Department of Transport, Translink, Irish Rail and NTA to consider the recommendations and develop a plan for implementation. I will then need to consider which projects to prioritise as funding opportunities become available.","answerHtml":"The All-Island Strategic Rail Review recommended that consideration be given to developing new stations in the Derry~Londonderry city region, including Limavady. This has been identified as medium-term intervention by the Review i.e. to be delivered between 2030 and 2040. However, more work will be needed to test the feasibility and affordability of the Review’s recommendations, determine an optimum sequencing for the delivery of projects, and secure the necessary funding to take projects forward.
The Department is continuing to work with colleagues in the Department of Transport, Translink, Irish Rail and NTA to consider the recommendations and develop a plan for implementation. I will then need to consider which projects to prioritise as funding opportunities become available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426119"}},{"id":"425961","reference":"AQW 21645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-30","answerBy":"2025-02-14","answered":"2025-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps his Department is taking to ensure children aged under 18 have adequate access to NHS dental services.","answerText":"I am aware of the challenges currently being experienced within General Dental Services (GDS) and I am committed to taking meaningful action to ensure the service performs for both patients and dental professionals.\n\nThis is why for many months now, the focus of my Department has been on improving access to GDS, particularly for high-need patients such as children, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices. In March 2024, a £9.2m investment in GDS was announced, to include:\n\n• £1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination (ECE) Scheme.\n\n•£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25. This will support public access to priority treatments.\n\n•£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme (DAS).\n\nThe DAS commenced on 1st August 2024. There are currently 30 practices participating in the scheme, details of which (including participating practices) can be viewed at: https://online.hscni.net/dental-access-scheme/. To date the scheme has enabled the treatment of more than 9100 patients with an urgent or pressing dental condition.\n\nFrom June to December 2024, over 22,400 newly registered children have benefitted from the Enhanced Child Examination scheme.\n\nEvaluation carried out to date indicates that these measures have had a positive impact and my Department will continue monitor closely.\n\nWhile interventions such as the DAS and ECE have been necessary to stabilise the service, long-term change will require sustained effort, rather than a single, one-off intervention. In December my officials presented a number of high-level options for the long-term future of dental services in Northern Ireland. To inform the most appropriate approach I have approved the commissioning of a General Dental Service cost of service review to be completed in 2025/26.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the challenges currently being experienced within General Dental Services (GDS) and I am committed to taking meaningful action to ensure the service performs for both patients and dental professionals.
This is why for many months now, the focus of my Department has been on improving access to GDS, particularly for high-need patients such as children, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices. In March 2024, a £9.2m investment in GDS was announced, to include:
• £1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination (ECE) Scheme.
•£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25. This will support public access to priority treatments.
•£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme (DAS).
The DAS commenced on 1st August 2024. There are currently 30 practices participating in the scheme, details of which (including participating practices) can be viewed at: https://online.hscni.net/dental-access-scheme/. To date the scheme has enabled the treatment of more than 9100 patients with an urgent or pressing dental condition.
From June to December 2024, over 22,400 newly registered children have benefitted from the Enhanced Child Examination scheme.
Evaluation carried out to date indicates that these measures have had a positive impact and my Department will continue monitor closely.
While interventions such as the DAS and ECE have been necessary to stabilise the service, long-term change will require sustained effort, rather than a single, one-off intervention. In December my officials presented a number of high-level options for the long-term future of dental services in Northern Ireland. To inform the most appropriate approach I have approved the commissioning of a General Dental Service cost of service review to be completed in 2025/26.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425961"}},{"id":"425960","reference":"AQW 21644/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-30","answerBy":"2025-02-14","answered":"2025-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of dental practices offering NHS services in East Londonderry in the last five years.","answerText":"The average dental practice in Northern Ireland has three dentists working in it. Individual dentists within a practice may provide only private dental care, only Health Service dental care or a mixture of the two. My Department defines a Health Service dental practice as one in which at least a single dental practitioner has made arrangements with the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) to provide Health Service dentistry.\n\nThe table below shows the number of practices in East Londonderry in which a dentist has provided some level of NHS treatment over the last five years.\n\nYear1\tPractices2\n2021\t17\n2022\t17\n2023\t17\n2024\t17\nDecember 2024\t17\n\nActive dental surgeries at 31st March of each year. Latest year count taken at 31st December, the latest published figures, sourced from the Accredited Official Statistics release ‘Dental Services for Northern Ireland, Quarterly Series to Q3 2024/25 - Provisional’.\n\nPractices may include a number of Orthodontic and Specialist Practitioners. Orthodontics is a specialist area of dentistry concerned with the growth and development of the teeth and jaws and the prevention and treatment of abnormalities of this development. Therefore, most patients are children. These practices do not typically have registered patient lists, with instead patients normally seen on referral from a GDS dental practice.\n\nSource: Business Service Organisation, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI. (Provided by Laura Baird– 5 February 2025)","answerHtml":"The average dental practice in Northern Ireland has three dentists working in it. Individual dentists within a practice may provide only private dental care, only Health Service dental care or a mixture of the two. My Department defines a Health Service dental practice as one in which at least a single dental practitioner has made arrangements with the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) to provide Health Service dentistry.
The table below shows the number of practices in East Londonderry in which a dentist has provided some level of NHS treatment over the last five years.
| Year1 | Practices2 |
| 2021 | 17 |
| 2022 | 17 |
| 2023 | 17 |
| 2024 | 17 |
| December 2024 | 17 |
Active dental surgeries at 31st March of each year. Latest year count taken at 31st December, the latest published figures, sourced from the Accredited Official Statistics release ‘Dental Services for Northern Ireland, Quarterly Series to Q3 2024/25 - Provisional’.
Practices may include a number of Orthodontic and Specialist Practitioners. Orthodontics is a specialist area of dentistry concerned with the growth and development of the teeth and jaws and the prevention and treatment of abnormalities of this development. Therefore, most patients are children. These practices do not typically have registered patient lists, with instead patients normally seen on referral from a GDS dental practice.
Source: Business Service Organisation, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI. (Provided by Laura Baird– 5 February 2025)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021644%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425960"}},{"id":"425959","reference":"AQW 21643/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-30","answerBy":"2025-02-14","answered":"2025-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration his Department has given to ensuring patients who receive private healthcare abroad are able to avail of NHS-funded services, such as blood tests, as part of their post-procedure monitoring.","answerText":"When an individual procures private healthcare, within or outside of Northern Ireland, the Health and Social Care (HSC) service, which includes GP practices, is not obliged to provide any associated care.\n\nPatients should ensure that pre and post-operative care, such as, for example, blood tests and stitch removal, are provided within the package of care sold by the independent sector provider. If this associated care is not provided as part of the private service, then individuals should be prepared to meet the associated costs.\n\nIn line with normal practice, patients will continue to be able to access emergency care where necessary.","answerHtml":"When an individual procures private healthcare, within or outside of Northern Ireland, the Health and Social Care (HSC) service, which includes GP practices, is not obliged to provide any associated care.
Patients should ensure that pre and post-operative care, such as, for example, blood tests and stitch removal, are provided within the package of care sold by the independent sector provider. If this associated care is not provided as part of the private service, then individuals should be prepared to meet the associated costs.
In line with normal practice, patients will continue to be able to access emergency care where necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021643%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425959","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425959"}},{"id":"425958","reference":"AQW 21642/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-30","answerBy":"2025-02-14","answered":"2025-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his Department’s bid for funding to reinstate the cross-border healthcare scheme.","answerText":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (RoIRS) was introduced on 30 June 2021 as part of the Elective Care Framework to help reduce waiting lists in Northern Ireland (NI). The scheme was a limited 12-month administrative version of the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive which ceased to apply to NI following the UK’s exit from the EU.\n\nA bid for funding for a replacement scheme was submitted during the 2024/25 budget setting process as part of a wider bid for £135million of additional funding to tackle waiting lists. It was intended that a new reimbursement scheme could have treated over 4,000 patients this financial year.\n\nUnfortunately, under the 2024/25 Budget, no additional funding was provided for tackling our waiting lists and the focus has had to be on supporting those on cancer and time critical waiting lists. In addition, the draft budget for 2025/26 does not provide any additional funding for waiting list reduction initiatives.\n\nAs such, there is no funding available at present to reinstate a cross-border reimbursement scheme.","answerHtml":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (RoIRS) was introduced on 30 June 2021 as part of the Elective Care Framework to help reduce waiting lists in Northern Ireland (NI). The scheme was a limited 12-month administrative version of the Cross-Border Healthcare Directive which ceased to apply to NI following the UK’s exit from the EU.
A bid for funding for a replacement scheme was submitted during the 2024/25 budget setting process as part of a wider bid for £135million of additional funding to tackle waiting lists. It was intended that a new reimbursement scheme could have treated over 4,000 patients this financial year.
Unfortunately, under the 2024/25 Budget, no additional funding was provided for tackling our waiting lists and the focus has had to be on supporting those on cancer and time critical waiting lists. In addition, the draft budget for 2025/26 does not provide any additional funding for waiting list reduction initiatives.
As such, there is no funding available at present to reinstate a cross-border reimbursement scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021642%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425958","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425958"}},{"id":"425957","reference":"AQW 21641/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-30","answerBy":"2025-02-14","answered":"2025-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any measures his Department is considering to reduce waiting times for (i) knee replacement surgery; and (ii) hip replacement surgery.","answerText":"The current waiting times for primary joint replacement are unacceptable. Since 2018/19 there has been a significant growth in demand for both trauma and orthopaedic services. Given this increased growth in urgent demand, there has been a need to prioritise both clinic and theatre capacity. This has meant that patients who have been prioritised as routine wait longer for their assessment and treatment.\n\nThe 2024 Elective Care Framework and the more recent May 2025 Implementation and Funding Plan, sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards. It also details how we will invest in and transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future.\n\nThis plan includes targeted funding to address some of the longest waiting treatments across a number of procedures including primary hip and knee replacement. In addition, I have also provided funding for a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme which will enable eligible patients the opportunity to reclaim costs for treatments received outside Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The current waiting times for primary joint replacement are unacceptable. Since 2018/19 there has been a significant growth in demand for both trauma and orthopaedic services. Given this increased growth in urgent demand, there has been a need to prioritise both clinic and theatre capacity. This has meant that patients who have been prioritised as routine wait longer for their assessment and treatment.
The 2024 Elective Care Framework and the more recent May 2025 Implementation and Funding Plan, sets out clear proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards. It also details how we will invest in and transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in the future.
This plan includes targeted funding to address some of the longest waiting treatments across a number of procedures including primary hip and knee replacement. In addition, I have also provided funding for a new Waiting List Reduction Reimbursement Scheme which will enable eligible patients the opportunity to reclaim costs for treatments received outside Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021641%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425957"}},{"id":"425820","reference":"AQW 21536/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of healthcare staff currently on sick leave due to an attack that took place in their workplace, broken down by (i) Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) staff role.","answerText":"The numbers of healthcare staff currently on sick leave due to an attack that took place in their workplace are shown on the tables below. Note that figures have been grouped to avoid personal disclosure.\n\nBy Health & Social Care Trust\n\nHSC Trust\tNumber of staff on sick leave due to an attack at work\nBelfast\t4\nNorthern\t5\nSouth Eastern\t9\nSouthern / Western / NI Ambulance Service\t4\n\nBy Staff Group\n\nStaff Group\tNumber of staff on sick leave due to an attack at work\nSocial Care / Social Work Support\t10\nNursing & Midwifery / Allied Health Professions / Other\t12\n\nSource: HSC Trusts.","answerHtml":"The numbers of healthcare staff currently on sick leave due to an attack that took place in their workplace are shown on the tables below. Note that figures have been grouped to avoid personal disclosure.
By Health & Social Care Trust
| HSC Trust | Number of staff on sick leave due to an attack at work |
| Belfast | 4 |
| Northern | 5 |
| South Eastern | 9 |
| Southern / Western / NI Ambulance Service | 4 |
By Staff Group
| Staff Group | Number of staff on sick leave due to an attack at work |
| Social Care / Social Work Support | 10 |
| Nursing & Midwifery / Allied Health Professions / Other | 12 |
Source: HSC Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021536%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425820"}},{"id":"425819","reference":"AQW 21535/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of attacks on healthcare staff in hospitals reported in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The number of attacks on healthcare staff in hospitals reported in each of the last five financial years is shown in the table below.\n\nYear\tBHSCT\tNHSCT\tNIAS\tSEHSCT\tSHSCT\tWHSCT\tTotal\n2019/20\t3321\t857\t234\t655\t1525\t675\t7267\n2020/21\t3395\t1100\t340\t643\t1323\t1115\t7916\n2021/22\t3284\t1151\t391\t1028\t1213\t1192\t8259\n2022/23\t2890\t918\t381\t1064\t1443\t1068\t7764\n2023/24\t2811\t1198\t457\t1228\t1829\t833\t8356\nTotal\t15701\t5224\t1803\t4618\t7333\t4883\t39562\n\nFive-year figures on attacks on staff were last published by the Department on 12 December 2023 as part of the announcement launching the Violence and Aggression in the Workplace Framework. They were figures which included physical attacks only and included all HSC locations, not just hospitals.","answerHtml":"The number of attacks on healthcare staff in hospitals reported in each of the last five financial years is shown in the table below.
| Year | BHSCT | NHSCT | NIAS | SEHSCT | SHSCT | WHSCT | Total |
| 2019/20 | 3321 | 857 | 234 | 655 | 1525 | 675 | 7267 |
| 2020/21 | 3395 | 1100 | 340 | 643 | 1323 | 1115 | 7916 |
| 2021/22 | 3284 | 1151 | 391 | 1028 | 1213 | 1192 | 8259 |
| 2022/23 | 2890 | 918 | 381 | 1064 | 1443 | 1068 | 7764 |
| 2023/24 | 2811 | 1198 | 457 | 1228 | 1829 | 833 | 8356 |
| Total | 15701 | 5224 | 1803 | 4618 | 7333 | 4883 | 39562 |
Five-year figures on attacks on staff were last published by the Department on 12 December 2023 as part of the announcement launching the Violence and Aggression in the Workplace Framework. They were figures which included physical attacks only and included all HSC locations, not just hospitals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021535%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425819"}},{"id":"425818","reference":"AQW 21534/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any measures being taken to improve the safety of healthcare staff in hospitals; and (ii) whether he has plans to introduce stronger protections for healthcare staff facing abuse or physical assault while on duty.","answerText":"I recognise and acknowledge the issues around Violence and Aggression that Healthcare staff have to deal with in the course of carrying out their duties. Any form of violence or aggression towards staff is unacceptable and the Department will continue to work with Employers and Trade Unions to ensure that appropriate protections are in place for staff.\n\nHSC trust employers aim to provide a safe environment for all staff and service users. Each trust has dedicated security staff who maintain static posts and perform routine patrols to try and deter incidents but also to urgently respond to all requests for assistance with violent and aggressive persons as best possible.\n\nTrusts also have CCTV and access control systems in place as an additional deterrent to deny unauthorised entry.\n\nSecurity staff all receive the same best practice safety intervention training to de-escalate situations in the first instance and also on how perform restraints as safely as possible for all involved as a last resort.\n\nEvery service is required to carry out their own internal risk assessments and seek practical advice for management of aggression teams to identify training needs and additional support. This can range from basic courses in disengagement techniques to skilled courses in how to deescalate situations and perform restraints in a safe manner.\n\nThis can also help identify if staff need any personal protective equipment (PPE) to help protect them. Some examples of this would be body armour, slash / spike & bite resistant gloves or sleeves, protective glasses and panic alarms.\n\nNIAS is committed to doing everything that it can to keep its staff safe. The high incidence of violence and aggression towards staff is recorded on the Trust’s Corporate Risk Register and in response, NIAS has introduced a range of measures to help protect staff physical safety and well-being.\n\nThis includes provision of body-worn cameras which are available to paramedics attending calls. These act as a potential deterrent and allow staff to capture video footage of instances of violence and aggression.\n\nNIAS has a dedicated Violence Reduction Officer in post whose role is to raise awareness about the risks and ensure that appropriate steps are taken following an incident, including that staff have access to psychological support.\n\nMy Department launched the HSC Violence and Aggression in the Workplace Framework on 12 December 2023 which was developed in collaboration with both Employers and Trade Unions and which all HSC organisations are required to adopt in respect to development of their individual organisation’s policies and procedures.\n\nThis framework enables Trusts to ensure appropriate protections are in place to mitigate the risk of incidents of violence and aggression to staff and that reduction and prevention strategies are reviewed and implemented on an ongoing basis.\n\nThere are no plans to introduce further measures as the current regional framework allows for each HSC employer to implement various arrangements to protect staff, taking into account the diverse range of working environments and supported by appropriate risk assessments according to the setting.","answerHtml":"I recognise and acknowledge the issues around Violence and Aggression that Healthcare staff have to deal with in the course of carrying out their duties. Any form of violence or aggression towards staff is unacceptable and the Department will continue to work with Employers and Trade Unions to ensure that appropriate protections are in place for staff.
HSC trust employers aim to provide a safe environment for all staff and service users. Each trust has dedicated security staff who maintain static posts and perform routine patrols to try and deter incidents but also to urgently respond to all requests for assistance with violent and aggressive persons as best possible.
Trusts also have CCTV and access control systems in place as an additional deterrent to deny unauthorised entry.
Security staff all receive the same best practice safety intervention training to de-escalate situations in the first instance and also on how perform restraints as safely as possible for all involved as a last resort.
Every service is required to carry out their own internal risk assessments and seek practical advice for management of aggression teams to identify training needs and additional support. This can range from basic courses in disengagement techniques to skilled courses in how to deescalate situations and perform restraints in a safe manner.
This can also help identify if staff need any personal protective equipment (PPE) to help protect them. Some examples of this would be body armour, slash / spike & bite resistant gloves or sleeves, protective glasses and panic alarms.
NIAS is committed to doing everything that it can to keep its staff safe. The high incidence of violence and aggression towards staff is recorded on the Trust’s Corporate Risk Register and in response, NIAS has introduced a range of measures to help protect staff physical safety and well-being.
This includes provision of body-worn cameras which are available to paramedics attending calls. These act as a potential deterrent and allow staff to capture video footage of instances of violence and aggression.
NIAS has a dedicated Violence Reduction Officer in post whose role is to raise awareness about the risks and ensure that appropriate steps are taken following an incident, including that staff have access to psychological support.
My Department launched the HSC Violence and Aggression in the Workplace Framework on 12 December 2023 which was developed in collaboration with both Employers and Trade Unions and which all HSC organisations are required to adopt in respect to development of their individual organisation’s policies and procedures.
This framework enables Trusts to ensure appropriate protections are in place to mitigate the risk of incidents of violence and aggression to staff and that reduction and prevention strategies are reviewed and implemented on an ongoing basis.
There are no plans to introduce further measures as the current regional framework allows for each HSC employer to implement various arrangements to protect staff, taking into account the diverse range of working environments and supported by appropriate risk assessments according to the setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021534%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425818"}},{"id":"425817","reference":"AQW 21533/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any support services, including counselling, that are available to healthcare staff who have been victims of violence in the workplace.","answerText":"A range of support services are available to healthcare staff who have been victims of violence in the workplace.\n\nInitial support includes:\n\nOffering the opportunity for affected staff to go off duty (where necessary because of physical injury or emotional trauma).\n\nContacting a relative, friend or Trade Union representative\n\nArranging assistance and accompaniment to hospital (where appropriate) or calling a taxi or making transport arrangements to take them to hospital or home.\n\nSignposting to support – Lena by Inspire Confidential Counselling Service and union representative.\n\nReferral to Occupational Health and Wellbeing Service (access to OH Nursing, Physiotherapy and Psychology interventions as required).\n\nStaff are offered the opportunity to complete a Personal Impact Assessment (PIA) as per the Regional Management of Violence and Aggression Framework.\n\nArrangements are made for ongoing support and contact between the manager and the staff involved, considering;\n\nwhat type of support the member/s of staff think that they might require in the coming days and weeks.\n\nwhen the next contact between the manager and the member/s of staff should take place and the method of contact\n\nStaff will also be supported in this initial phase to report an incident to PSNI, should that be appropriate in the circumstances and should the member of staff wish to pursue the matter through PSNI.\n\nOngoing support is also provided to staff involved in incidents of violence and aggression in the weeks and months following the incident. Examples of this support include;\n\n‘Checking in’ with the member of staff (including during subsequent supervision sessions)\n\nFollowing discussions with the staff member, the employer will make a decision on the level of support to be provided and the most appropriate support mechanisms\n\nA buddy/identified colleague will be nominated if appropriate\n\nIndividual(s) will be kept informed of any investigation process/follow up actions/any learning identified\n\nAppropriate time off will be granted to attend appointments (as per the Special Leave Policy) made as a result of the incident, for example with Occupational Health or Inspire\n\nThe incident will be escalated to the Head of Service for consideration as to the appropriateness of a visit to affected staff by the Head of Service/Assistant Director or Director\n\nThe potential long-term effects of a distressing incident will be considered, this will be by either keeping it under review in supervision or by offering to complete the Talking Toolkit (as per the Recognising and Responding to Stress in the Workplace Policy). This will be reviewed regularly to ensure that the action plan is appropriate and being implemented\n\nThe staff member will be encouraged to contact their Trade Union Side representative where they may require further support from their Trade Union\n\nIndividual or group support such as focus group/team session(s) via occupational health clinical psychology will be offered if appropriate.\n\nAdvice will be provided on where to access health and wellbeing initiatives\n\nUseful contact numbers will be made available\n\nThis ongoing support may also require input from both the Divisional MOVA Liaison Officer or the Trust MOVA Liaison Officer and will also include continuing support to staff in respect of PSNI investigation/court case, where appropriate.\n\nNIAS has an established Management of Aggression Partnership Group alongside trade union colleagues to oversee systems and processes related to workplace aggression and violence including support for staff who become victims.\n\nStaff who have been victims of physical, sexual, or verbal violence are responded to in the first instance by line managers and/or Station Officers. The incident is referred to the NIAS Critical Incident Stress Management Team who contact the victim 36-72 hours post incident. At all stages, a compassionate peer response is deployed.","answerHtml":"A range of support services are available to healthcare staff who have been victims of violence in the workplace.
Initial support includes:
Offering the opportunity for affected staff to go off duty (where necessary because of physical injury or emotional trauma).
Contacting a relative, friend or Trade Union representative
Arranging assistance and accompaniment to hospital (where appropriate) or calling a taxi or making transport arrangements to take them to hospital or home.
Signposting to support – Lena by Inspire Confidential Counselling Service and union representative.
Referral to Occupational Health and Wellbeing Service (access to OH Nursing, Physiotherapy and Psychology interventions as required).
Staff are offered the opportunity to complete a Personal Impact Assessment (PIA) as per the Regional Management of Violence and Aggression Framework.
Arrangements are made for ongoing support and contact between the manager and the staff involved, considering;
what type of support the member/s of staff think that they might require in the coming days and weeks.
when the next contact between the manager and the member/s of staff should take place and the method of contact
Staff will also be supported in this initial phase to report an incident to PSNI, should that be appropriate in the circumstances and should the member of staff wish to pursue the matter through PSNI.
Ongoing support is also provided to staff involved in incidents of violence and aggression in the weeks and months following the incident. Examples of this support include;
‘Checking in’ with the member of staff (including during subsequent supervision sessions)
Following discussions with the staff member, the employer will make a decision on the level of support to be provided and the most appropriate support mechanisms
A buddy/identified colleague will be nominated if appropriate
Individual(s) will be kept informed of any investigation process/follow up actions/any learning identified
Appropriate time off will be granted to attend appointments (as per the Special Leave Policy) made as a result of the incident, for example with Occupational Health or Inspire
The incident will be escalated to the Head of Service for consideration as to the appropriateness of a visit to affected staff by the Head of Service/Assistant Director or Director
The potential long-term effects of a distressing incident will be considered, this will be by either keeping it under review in supervision or by offering to complete the Talking Toolkit (as per the Recognising and Responding to Stress in the Workplace Policy). This will be reviewed regularly to ensure that the action plan is appropriate and being implemented
The staff member will be encouraged to contact their Trade Union Side representative where they may require further support from their Trade Union
Individual or group support such as focus group/team session(s) via occupational health clinical psychology will be offered if appropriate.
Advice will be provided on where to access health and wellbeing initiatives
Useful contact numbers will be made available
This ongoing support may also require input from both the Divisional MOVA Liaison Officer or the Trust MOVA Liaison Officer and will also include continuing support to staff in respect of PSNI investigation/court case, where appropriate.
NIAS has an established Management of Aggression Partnership Group alongside trade union colleagues to oversee systems and processes related to workplace aggression and violence including support for staff who become victims.
Staff who have been victims of physical, sexual, or verbal violence are responded to in the first instance by line managers and/or Station Officers. The incident is referred to the NIAS Critical Incident Stress Management Team who contact the victim 36-72 hours post incident. At all stages, a compassionate peer response is deployed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021533%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425817"}},{"id":"425816","reference":"AQW 21532/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-29","answerBy":"2025-02-13","answered":"2025-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any discussions that have taken place between her Department and the Department of Health in relation to improving protections for healthcare workers against violence and abuse in hospitals.","answerText":"I am aware of recent reports of attacks on healthcare workers and am disgusted by these and similar reports from those in other public-facing occupations. No one should have to go to work in fear of being assaulted.\n\nThere are a range of existing assault offences designed to protect any member of the public from harm. In addition, an offence of assault on persons providing ambulance services was introduced in the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.\n\nTo make it clear that assaults will not be tolerated on any person, while on duty, whose job includes dealing with the public, I intend to introduce an offence of assaulting a person engaged in providing a service to the public, performing a public duty or providing a public service within my Sentencing Bill. This offence will come with a higher maximum penalty in the magistrates’ courts than that currently available for the existing offences, and, for more serious assaults, the fact that the victim is such a person will become a statutory aggravating factor.\n\nExecutive agreement to commence drafting the Sentencing Bill was granted on 19th December and I aim to introduce it in the autumn of this year.","answerHtml":"I am aware of recent reports of attacks on healthcare workers and am disgusted by these and similar reports from those in other public-facing occupations. No one should have to go to work in fear of being assaulted.
There are a range of existing assault offences designed to protect any member of the public from harm. In addition, an offence of assault on persons providing ambulance services was introduced in the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.
To make it clear that assaults will not be tolerated on any person, while on duty, whose job includes dealing with the public, I intend to introduce an offence of assaulting a person engaged in providing a service to the public, performing a public duty or providing a public service within my Sentencing Bill. This offence will come with a higher maximum penalty in the magistrates’ courts than that currently available for the existing offences, and, for more serious assaults, the fact that the victim is such a person will become a statutory aggravating factor.
Executive agreement to commence drafting the Sentencing Bill was granted on 19th December and I aim to introduce it in the autumn of this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021532%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425816"}},{"id":"425604","reference":"AQW 21437/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-28","answerBy":"2025-02-12","answered":"2025-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measures his Department has taken to ensure that older people, particularly those living in rural areas with limited internet access, are not disadvantaged when seeking information about social security benefits.","answerText":"My Department’s Make the Call Wraparound Service aims to ensure that its community-based Outreach Officers conduct home visits, provide face to face assistance for customers requiring help to make a benefit claim and work with local community, charitable and voluntary groups, to raise awareness of potential benefit entitlements and provide practical help in accessing them.\n\nIn 2023-24 the Make the Call Wraparound Service helped over 12k people access £62.1 million in additional benefits. This includes £21.2m for 4,755 people of pension age. Callers to the Make the Call helpline receive a free and confidential needs assessment to identify potential entitlement to benefits, support and services.\n\nPeople who have difficulties attending their Jobs & Benefits office due to vulnerabilities or other barriers may benefit from a visit to their home by an officer from the Department.\n\nEach of the Jobs & Benefits offices has internet enabled devices located onsite in digital zones. Staff working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Civil Service Go ON NI are on hand to help claimants develop the digital skills needed to make and maintain their benefit claim.\n\nInformation and support is provided through community outreach events where Jobs & Benefits office staff visit local facilities to provide their service.\n\nMy Department funds free broadband and computers through its Adviser Discretion Fund to help address digital exclusion being a barrier to starting or staying in work.\n\nLibraries NI, an Arm’s Length Body sponsored by my Department, serves the rural population through its network of 96 libraries and 29 library facilities in designated rural areas providing access to free Wi-Fi, public computers, and digital support. Seven ‘Out of Hours’ facilities are in operation allowing digital services to be accessed at times convenient to the user. Working in partnership with my Department, Libraries NI offers digital access to government services including Make the Call.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Make the Call Wraparound Service aims to ensure that its community-based Outreach Officers conduct home visits, provide face to face assistance for customers requiring help to make a benefit claim and work with local community, charitable and voluntary groups, to raise awareness of potential benefit entitlements and provide practical help in accessing them.
In 2023-24 the Make the Call Wraparound Service helped over 12k people access £62.1 million in additional benefits. This includes £21.2m for 4,755 people of pension age. Callers to the Make the Call helpline receive a free and confidential needs assessment to identify potential entitlement to benefits, support and services.
People who have difficulties attending their Jobs & Benefits office due to vulnerabilities or other barriers may benefit from a visit to their home by an officer from the Department.
Each of the Jobs & Benefits offices has internet enabled devices located onsite in digital zones. Staff working in partnership with the Northern Ireland Civil Service Go ON NI are on hand to help claimants develop the digital skills needed to make and maintain their benefit claim.
Information and support is provided through community outreach events where Jobs & Benefits office staff visit local facilities to provide their service.
My Department funds free broadband and computers through its Adviser Discretion Fund to help address digital exclusion being a barrier to starting or staying in work.
Libraries NI, an Arm’s Length Body sponsored by my Department, serves the rural population through its network of 96 libraries and 29 library facilities in designated rural areas providing access to free Wi-Fi, public computers, and digital support. Seven ‘Out of Hours’ facilities are in operation allowing digital services to be accessed at times convenient to the user. Working in partnership with my Department, Libraries NI offers digital access to government services including Make the Call.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021437%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425604","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425604"}},{"id":"425603","reference":"AQW 21436/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-28","answerBy":"2025-02-12","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has considered reviewing the current Pension Credit paper application to make the application process succinct and more accessible for older people.","answerText":"My Department reviews the Pension Credit application form (PC1) annually and it is next due for review in February 2025. This is to ensure the application form provides the Department with the customer information needed to accurately establish eligibility.\n\nThe Department offers a range of channels for those wishing to make a Pension Credit application including online, by telephone or post. Anyone requiring assistance to complete a Pension Credit application can contact my Department’s Make the Call service for assistance.","answerHtml":"My Department reviews the Pension Credit application form (PC1) annually and it is next due for review in February 2025. This is to ensure the application form provides the Department with the customer information needed to accurately establish eligibility.
The Department offers a range of channels for those wishing to make a Pension Credit application including online, by telephone or post. Anyone requiring assistance to complete a Pension Credit application can contact my Department’s Make the Call service for assistance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021436%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425603","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425603"}},{"id":"425602","reference":"AQW 21435/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-28","answerBy":"2025-02-12","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any steps his Department is taking to support older people during the application process for (i) Pension Credit; and (ii) Attendance Allowance.","answerText":"My Department has a number of measures in place to support older people who require help to make an application for Pension Credit or Attendance Allowance. These include:\n\nA choice of channels for making an application - online, by phone, or by post for Pension Credit and online or by post for Attendance Allowance;\n\nThe availability of an online Pension Credit calculator which provides an opportunity to check potential eligibility;\n\nAssistance from Pension Credit telephony agents who will guide customers or a nominated representative through a telephone application, advise about eligibility and evidence requirements, and signpost to other benefits such as Attendance Allowance, Carers Allowance, State Pension, and Housing Benefit; and\n\nAssistance from the Disability & Carers Service by telephone or email for those seeking advice, including a customer’s nominated representative, about making an Attendance Allowance application\n\nIn addition, further assistance is available from the Department’s Make the Call service who can visit the customer to provide benefit advice and assistance with application form completion if required.","answerHtml":"My Department has a number of measures in place to support older people who require help to make an application for Pension Credit or Attendance Allowance. These include:
A choice of channels for making an application - online, by phone, or by post for Pension Credit and online or by post for Attendance Allowance;
The availability of an online Pension Credit calculator which provides an opportunity to check potential eligibility;
Assistance from Pension Credit telephony agents who will guide customers or a nominated representative through a telephone application, advise about eligibility and evidence requirements, and signpost to other benefits such as Attendance Allowance, Carers Allowance, State Pension, and Housing Benefit; and
Assistance from the Disability & Carers Service by telephone or email for those seeking advice, including a customer’s nominated representative, about making an Attendance Allowance application
In addition, further assistance is available from the Department’s Make the Call service who can visit the customer to provide benefit advice and assistance with application form completion if required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021435%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425602"}},{"id":"425601","reference":"AQW 21434/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-28","answerBy":"2025-02-12","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any measures his Department is taking to improve the uptake of Pension Credit.","answerText":"My Department undertakes a wide range of activities to promote Pension Credit uptake including: social media and broadcast campaigns; promotion work with age-based stakeholders; displaying information about Pension Credit in public spaces; provision of confidential benefit assessments and help to complete forms; and identifying potential Pension Credit entitlement when a person makes their State Retirement Pension claim.\n\nIn addition this year a letter issued to all pensioners advising them of the Winter Fuel Payment entitlement changes which signposted to Pension Credit. My Department also collaborated with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive in issuing a letter to all older Housing Benefit recipients not already in receipt of Pension Credit, to make them aware of the benefit.\n\nAs a result of the Make the Call service, 1,634 people were helped to access over £6.6 million in Pension Credit in 2023/24","answerHtml":"My Department undertakes a wide range of activities to promote Pension Credit uptake including: social media and broadcast campaigns; promotion work with age-based stakeholders; displaying information about Pension Credit in public spaces; provision of confidential benefit assessments and help to complete forms; and identifying potential Pension Credit entitlement when a person makes their State Retirement Pension claim.
In addition this year a letter issued to all pensioners advising them of the Winter Fuel Payment entitlement changes which signposted to Pension Credit. My Department also collaborated with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive in issuing a letter to all older Housing Benefit recipients not already in receipt of Pension Credit, to make them aware of the benefit.
As a result of the Make the Call service, 1,634 people were helped to access over £6.6 million in Pension Credit in 2023/24
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021434%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425601","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425601"}},{"id":"425600","reference":"AQW 21433/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-28","answerBy":"2025-02-12","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the steps his Department is taking to ensure those entitled to the £100 Winter Fuel Payment receive it as soon as possible.","answerText":"My officials are working at pace to put in place the IT and other logistical arrangements necessary for making the one-off £100 Pension Age Fuel Support payment.\n\nThe payment remains on schedule to be paid before the end of March 2025.","answerHtml":"My officials are working at pace to put in place the IT and other logistical arrangements necessary for making the one-off £100 Pension Age Fuel Support payment.
The payment remains on schedule to be paid before the end of March 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021433%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425600"}},{"id":"425293","reference":"AQW 21350/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his plans to support students and staff at North Coast Integrated College following the extensive damage to the building caused by Storm Éowyn, considering the upcoming amalgamation of the school in September this year.","answerText":"Departmental officials contacted the school on Monday 28 January and were advised that the school’s contractors were on site undertaking the necessary repairs to enable the school to reopen and operate safely from Tuesday 29 January.\n\nShould the school require further Departmental support, they should submit a Minor Works application to minorworks@education-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials contacted the school on Monday 28 January and were advised that the school’s contractors were on site undertaking the necessary repairs to enable the school to reopen and operate safely from Tuesday 29 January.
Should the school require further Departmental support, they should submit a Minor Works application to minorworks@education-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021350%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425293"}},{"id":"425292","reference":"AQW 21349/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-02-11","answered":"2025-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any actions his Department is taking to ensure older people with health conditions exacerbated by cold weather have access to emergency support and necessary medical care during extreme weather events.","answerText":"HSC trusts have in place emergency planning response plans and oversight structures as part of major incident planning and this includes contingencies for extreme weather events\n\nHSC trusts have a comprehensive list of service users who are deemed to have health vulnerabilities who will be supported and contingency arrangements put in place in the event of a power cut such as those dependent on ventilators, respirators, enteral feeding and pressure relieving mattresses.\n\nHSC trusts active response teams can be mobilised to support service users who are in receipt of home care, district nursing services and community-based equipment. Home care providers will advise the trusts of any service users who are found in need of additional supports. Trusts also engage with all care homes to offer support.\n\nIt is also acknowledged that any power outages and damage to the road network can necessitate a community response. HSC trusts work with NIE to identify vulnerable individuals and agree a co-ordinated response.","answerHtml":"HSC trusts have in place emergency planning response plans and oversight structures as part of major incident planning and this includes contingencies for extreme weather events
HSC trusts have a comprehensive list of service users who are deemed to have health vulnerabilities who will be supported and contingency arrangements put in place in the event of a power cut such as those dependent on ventilators, respirators, enteral feeding and pressure relieving mattresses.
HSC trusts active response teams can be mobilised to support service users who are in receipt of home care, district nursing services and community-based equipment. Home care providers will advise the trusts of any service users who are found in need of additional supports. Trusts also engage with all care homes to offer support.
It is also acknowledged that any power outages and damage to the road network can necessitate a community response. HSC trusts work with NIE to identify vulnerable individuals and agree a co-ordinated response.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021349%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425292"}},{"id":"425291","reference":"AQW 21348/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-02-11","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps his Department is taking to ensure that older people, particularly those living in rural areas, are not left without access to vital communication during power outages, given the move to digital phone lines which require power to operate.","answerText":"Telecommunications policy is a reserved matter, with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) holding responsibility. My officials maintain regular contact with DSIT on all telecommunications matters.\n\nThe Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional copper-based analogue landline, which is being upgraded to deliver voice services over an internet connection via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. This may also be referred to as ‘digital phone’ or ‘digital voice’.\n\nAlthough the migration to VoIP is an industry led initiative, DSIT, along with Ofcom, the communications regulator, is working with the industry to ensure all sectors of the economy are protected and prepared. This includes regularly engaging with communications providers and tracking preparedness across all affected sectors.\n\nOfcom has issued guidance on how to prepare for the migration, and has rules to protect customers during power cuts, and to require phone companies to provide access to emergency calls at all times.\n\nMore information is available at: www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/landline-phones/future-of-landline-calls/","answerHtml":"Telecommunications policy is a reserved matter, with the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) holding responsibility. My officials maintain regular contact with DSIT on all telecommunications matters.
The Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) is the traditional copper-based analogue landline, which is being upgraded to deliver voice services over an internet connection via Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. This may also be referred to as ‘digital phone’ or ‘digital voice’.
Although the migration to VoIP is an industry led initiative, DSIT, along with Ofcom, the communications regulator, is working with the industry to ensure all sectors of the economy are protected and prepared. This includes regularly engaging with communications providers and tracking preparedness across all affected sectors.
Ofcom has issued guidance on how to prepare for the migration, and has rules to protect customers during power cuts, and to require phone companies to provide access to emergency calls at all times.
More information is available at: www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/landline-phones/future-of-landline-calls/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021348%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425291"}},{"id":"425290","reference":"AQW 21347/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-02-11","answered":"2025-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any guidance his Department has issued to the public in relation to the safe operation of generators during power outages.","answerText":"HSENI in discussions with members of the Civil Contingencies Group agreed to place advice on their website on the use of generators. The text is as follows and can be found at https://www.hseni.gov.uk/news/safety-tips-using-portable-generator-emergency .","answerHtml":"HSENI in discussions with members of the Civil Contingencies Group agreed to place advice on their website on the use of generators. The text is as follows and can be found at https://www.hseni.gov.uk/news/safety-tips-using-portable-generator-emergency .
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021347%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425290"}},{"id":"425289","reference":"AQW 21346/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-27","answerBy":"2025-02-11","answered":"2025-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on their discussions with NIE in relation to potential compensation for those who have been without power for multiple days.","answerText":"We are mindful of the ongoing significant impact on the thousands of people without power as a result of Storm Éowyn.\n\nWe met with the Managing Director from Northern Ireland Electricity Networks (NIE) on Saturday 25 January, and at the Executive meeting on Monday 27 January urged him to consider how NIE could provide support to those families and businesses impacted by the effects of Storm Éowyn.\n\nSince the Executive meeting we have received an update from NIE that they have had exploratory conversations with the Department for Economy and the Utility Regulator.","answerHtml":"We are mindful of the ongoing significant impact on the thousands of people without power as a result of Storm Éowyn.
We met with the Managing Director from Northern Ireland Electricity Networks (NIE) on Saturday 25 January, and at the Executive meeting on Monday 27 January urged him to consider how NIE could provide support to those families and businesses impacted by the effects of Storm Éowyn.
Since the Executive meeting we have received an update from NIE that they have had exploratory conversations with the Department for Economy and the Utility Regulator.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021346%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=425289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=425289"}},{"id":"424876","reference":"AQO 1486/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-23","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline measures his Department is taking to ensure farmers take steps to mitigate the risk of contracting and spreading Foot and Mouth Disease.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"The emergence of foot-and-mouth disease in Germany is of significant concern not only for our livestock owners but for agriculture sectors across the UK, Ireland and the European Union. I assure Members that my Department has robust contingency plans in place to manage the risk of the disease in order to protect our livestock, farmers and the wider industry. Those were set out in my written ministerial statement to the Assembly on 17 January. On notification of the outbreak in Germany, in a herd of water buffalo in Brandenburg, north of Berlin, my officials immediately carried out a tracing exercise. That was to identify whether any susceptible species, germ plasm or products of animal origin had been imported to Northern Ireland from Germany within an established risk window. To protect Northern Ireland, there are also strict import controls in place restricting the movement of animals and animal products from foot-and-mouth disease-affected areas. That means that all susceptible species and their products from the disease control zones in Germany are restricted from moving to Northern Ireland. The foot-and-mouth disease web page on the DAERA website has also been updated in light of the situation in Germany. The web page contains important information on foot-and-mouth disease, including details on clinical signs and the steps that livestock keepers should take to protect their animals in order to prevent the introduction and spread of this devastating disease. My officials have met industry stakeholders to update them on the situation in Germany and to stress the need for vigilance. Communications reminding livestock keepers of the necessity of adhering to the highest levels of biosecurity are being disseminated regularly by my Department. In addition, veterinary practitioners and livestock keepers have been urged to remain alert to any unusual symptoms and to report them immediately to a veterinarian or directly to DAERA. I urge all Members to continue to play their part in disseminating those key messages."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. Minister, can we some more details of a response plan should foot-and-mouth disease come to Northern Ireland? We can all recall when it came back in 2001 and the devastation that it caused, particularly to the economy. Does he have any plans to deal with that, particularly for compensation, should we find ourselves in a similar position?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"This is a matter of concern for me, because it was devastating when it arrived. That is why I have spoken to my colleague across the border, Martin Heydon, and previously to Charlie McConalogue. I have also spoken to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland and Baroness Hayman from DEFRA. There has been significant engagement on the matter, because we need to work together to keep foot-and-mouth disease out of Northern Ireland. I have a long answer here on the contingency methods, and I will write to the Member about them. To reassure all Members, let me say that we consider this matter to be very serious. My concern is that we abide by the rules on animal movements, and the message has to come very clearly from us all that it is important that we take every step that is necessary to keep foot-and-mouth disease out of Northern Ireland."},{"speaker":"Mr Irwin","text":"My question is a bit wider and is about the DAERA application for nitrates. Farmers and form-fillers have brought to my attention today the fact that they cannot access the website for their nitrates application. The deadline is 1 March, and, as yet, they have not been able to access the website. It was supposed to open on 1 January. Will the Minister extend the time frame for getting those applications in?"},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"That is slightly unrelated to the question, but it is an important issue. I will ask my private office to contact your constituency office today to get a bit more understanding of the issues and see how we can resolve them."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We move on to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201486%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424876","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2025-02-04&docID=425760#AQO%201486/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424876"}},{"id":"426177","reference":"AQO 1453/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-23","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what steps are being taken to ensure that the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls and its Delivery Plan are effectively implemented in rural areas.","answerText":"The Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls sets out key actions supporting collaboration across government and wider society, with a focus on prevention and early intervention.\n\nUnder the Framework’s first Delivery Plan, which runs until March 2026, we committed to a number of community-led reviews to better understand the needs of groups facing additional barriers or vulnerabilities, including a review on the needs of rural women.\n\nThis will ensure we can reflect a diverse range of voices, including those living in rural communities.\n\nLast month, we announced the Local and Regional Change Fund as part of a wider £3.2 million investment. By working with local councils, we can ensure regional balance as grassroot groups in each locality will have the opportunity to play their part in preventing violence, harm and abuse against women and girls.\n\nLocal councils are engaging with the community and voluntary sector across their districts to ensure engagement within rural areas.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls sets out key actions supporting collaboration across government and wider society, with a focus on prevention and early intervention.
Under the Framework’s first Delivery Plan, which runs until March 2026, we committed to a number of community-led reviews to better understand the needs of groups facing additional barriers or vulnerabilities, including a review on the needs of rural women.
This will ensure we can reflect a diverse range of voices, including those living in rural communities.
Last month, we announced the Local and Regional Change Fund as part of a wider £3.2 million investment. By working with local councils, we can ensure regional balance as grassroot groups in each locality will have the opportunity to play their part in preventing violence, harm and abuse against women and girls.
Local councils are engaging with the community and voluntary sector across their districts to ensure engagement within rural areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201453%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=426177","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=426177"}},{"id":"424737","reference":"AQW 21102/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration his Department has given to introducing a pension scheme for community pharmacists, similar to the schemes already available for GPs, optometrists and dentists.","answerText":"Access to a pension is an employer responsibility. Access to the Health and Social Care Pension Scheme is legislated for under The Health and Social Care Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 and is limited to health service workers who are: employed by HSC employers; are an HSC contractor/provider or those employed by them – this includes GPs and dentists. Community pharmacy owners are the employers of community pharmacists in Northern Ireland and have a legal obligation to provide access to a workplace pension for their employees.","answerHtml":"Access to a pension is an employer responsibility. Access to the Health and Social Care Pension Scheme is legislated for under The Health and Social Care Pension Scheme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 and is limited to health service workers who are: employed by HSC employers; are an HSC contractor/provider or those employed by them – this includes GPs and dentists. Community pharmacy owners are the employers of community pharmacists in Northern Ireland and have a legal obligation to provide access to a workplace pension for their employees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021102%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424737","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424737"}},{"id":"424736","reference":"AQW 21101/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of community pharmacies that closed between January 2023 and December 2024; and (ii) how this compares to the total number of closures over the previous five years.","answerText":"The total number of community pharmacies that closed between January 2023 and December 2024 was 17.\n\nFor comparison purposes, the table below shows the total number of closures over the previous five years from January 2018 to December 2022.\n\nYear\tNumber of closures\n2018\t0\n2019\t1\n2020\t4\n2021\t2\n2022\t0\n\nAt a UK level, Northern Ireland continues to have the most pharmacies per 100,000 population. The latest available statistics, which relate to 2022/23, show that the UK average was 20.6 pharmacies per 100,000 people. Northern Ireland’s figure was 27.6, which was 34% higher than the UK average.\n\nWe do not always know the reason for closures as contractors do not have to give my Department a reason for closing, but we are aware that some of the closures were as a result of business consolidation.\n\nThere remains good access to community pharmacies across Northern Ireland, with over 99% of the population living within 5 miles of a community pharmacy.","answerHtml":"The total number of community pharmacies that closed between January 2023 and December 2024 was 17.
For comparison purposes, the table below shows the total number of closures over the previous five years from January 2018 to December 2022.
| Year | Number of closures |
| 2018 | 0 |
| 2019 | 1 |
| 2020 | 4 |
| 2021 | 2 |
| 2022 | 0 |
At a UK level, Northern Ireland continues to have the most pharmacies per 100,000 population. The latest available statistics, which relate to 2022/23, show that the UK average was 20.6 pharmacies per 100,000 people. Northern Ireland’s figure was 27.6, which was 34% higher than the UK average.
We do not always know the reason for closures as contractors do not have to give my Department a reason for closing, but we are aware that some of the closures were as a result of business consolidation.
There remains good access to community pharmacies across Northern Ireland, with over 99% of the population living within 5 miles of a community pharmacy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021101%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424736","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424736"}},{"id":"424735","reference":"AQW 21100/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether his Department has considered adopting the Scottish model for claw-back adjustments to provide financial stability for community pharmacies in Northern Ireland, given the reported £24 million reduction in pharmacy budgets due to the claw-back in 2023-24.","answerText":"The community funding models in each of the UK nations differs; in terms of government funding for community pharmacies per head of population (2023-2024), Northern Ireland is 22% higher than Scotland.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, the opening envelope for 24/25 was £147m; this represented an increase of £19m on 23/24 opening envelope, an increase of 14.8%, not a decrease in funding as detailed in the question.\n\nAs part of the community pharmacy reimbursement arrangements, discount clawback has been used for many years in NI, England, Wales, and Scotland to reduce reimbursement in recognition that pharmacies are receiving additional profit through their efficient procurement.\n\nFollowing a consultation completed in March 2022 on proposals to reform aspects of the NI Drug Tariff, including review of discount clawback scales, revised discounting arrangements were introduced on a phased basis from January 2024. These arrangements aim to ensure that clawback is more appropriately applied to pharmacy contractors, whilst maintaining cost neutrality, and are being introduced over an 18-month period to minimise any impact on contractors. In the first 11 months of these transitional arrangements, over £1.42m less has been clawed back from pharmacy contractors under the new arrangements than legacy arrangements, and my Department remains committed to monitoring the impact of these new arrangements on all contractors and to taking actions as needed.","answerHtml":"The community funding models in each of the UK nations differs; in terms of government funding for community pharmacies per head of population (2023-2024), Northern Ireland is 22% higher than Scotland.
In Northern Ireland, the opening envelope for 24/25 was £147m; this represented an increase of £19m on 23/24 opening envelope, an increase of 14.8%, not a decrease in funding as detailed in the question.
As part of the community pharmacy reimbursement arrangements, discount clawback has been used for many years in NI, England, Wales, and Scotland to reduce reimbursement in recognition that pharmacies are receiving additional profit through their efficient procurement.
Following a consultation completed in March 2022 on proposals to reform aspects of the NI Drug Tariff, including review of discount clawback scales, revised discounting arrangements were introduced on a phased basis from January 2024. These arrangements aim to ensure that clawback is more appropriately applied to pharmacy contractors, whilst maintaining cost neutrality, and are being introduced over an 18-month period to minimise any impact on contractors. In the first 11 months of these transitional arrangements, over £1.42m less has been clawed back from pharmacy contractors under the new arrangements than legacy arrangements, and my Department remains committed to monitoring the impact of these new arrangements on all contractors and to taking actions as needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021100%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424735","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424735"}},{"id":"424734","reference":"AQW 21099/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on plans to expand the role of community pharmacies in delivering public health campaigns, including the proposed Pharmacy First for Sore Throat Service and the continuation of vaccination services.","answerText":"Community pharmacies in Northern Ireland have an established role in the provision of public health campaigns. In addition to the Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service and Community Pharmacy Vaccination Service, the Living Well and Stop Smoking Services are delivered extensively across the community pharmacy network.\n\nThe roll out of the Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service this year built upon a successful evaluation of the Pharmacy First Pilot Service for Sore Throat last year (November 2023 – March 2024). Following collaborative discussion with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI) DoH has secured £1m non-recurrent funding for a network wide service that commenced on 1 December 2024 and will run until 31 March 2025.\n\nCommunity pharmacies are integral to the delivery of seasonal vaccination campaigns and this service has been established since 2021 following a successful pilot in 2019. The service currently provides seasonal flu and COVID vaccination for care homes and direct access walk-in patients. In 2023/24 during the Autumn and Spring campaigns, 96,186 vaccine administrations were delivered from 338 pharmacies. Over 68,500 vaccines have been administered in the Autumn 24/25 campaign to date. SPPG continues to work collaboratively with the Public Health Agency (PHA) to develop the service as appropriate, to meet the needs of the population and campaign targets.\n\nThe Living Well Service has been established since 2019 and is delivered in over 500 pharmacies. This service provides key public health messages and advice during an annual schedule of six campaigns, each of which runs for two months. During 2023/24 the campaigns had an estimated reach of 346,400 people and evaluations consistently demonstrate the unique reach and impact of this service. Campaign topics to date in 24/25 have included Cancer Screening, MMR vaccination, Physical Activity, Sexual Health and Staying Well over Winter.\n\nCommunity pharmacy is the largest provider of a Specialist Stop Smoking Service. 6488 people enrolled in the service in 2023/24 and the 4-week quit rate was 57%.\n\nThe Department funds community pharmacy to provide a range of commissioned HSC services through an agreed 3-year Commissioning Plan, developed with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy contractors in Northern Ireland.\n\nWork will be commencing in early 2025 to update the current commissioning plan and outline the service priorities for the next three years, aligned with the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan which was launched by my Department in May 2024. Public Health services and campaigns will be further considered during this process and in collaboration with PHA.","answerHtml":"Community pharmacies in Northern Ireland have an established role in the provision of public health campaigns. In addition to the Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service and Community Pharmacy Vaccination Service, the Living Well and Stop Smoking Services are delivered extensively across the community pharmacy network.
The roll out of the Pharmacy First Sore Throat Service this year built upon a successful evaluation of the Pharmacy First Pilot Service for Sore Throat last year (November 2023 – March 2024). Following collaborative discussion with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI) DoH has secured £1m non-recurrent funding for a network wide service that commenced on 1 December 2024 and will run until 31 March 2025.
Community pharmacies are integral to the delivery of seasonal vaccination campaigns and this service has been established since 2021 following a successful pilot in 2019. The service currently provides seasonal flu and COVID vaccination for care homes and direct access walk-in patients. In 2023/24 during the Autumn and Spring campaigns, 96,186 vaccine administrations were delivered from 338 pharmacies. Over 68,500 vaccines have been administered in the Autumn 24/25 campaign to date. SPPG continues to work collaboratively with the Public Health Agency (PHA) to develop the service as appropriate, to meet the needs of the population and campaign targets.
The Living Well Service has been established since 2019 and is delivered in over 500 pharmacies. This service provides key public health messages and advice during an annual schedule of six campaigns, each of which runs for two months. During 2023/24 the campaigns had an estimated reach of 346,400 people and evaluations consistently demonstrate the unique reach and impact of this service. Campaign topics to date in 24/25 have included Cancer Screening, MMR vaccination, Physical Activity, Sexual Health and Staying Well over Winter.
Community pharmacy is the largest provider of a Specialist Stop Smoking Service. 6488 people enrolled in the service in 2023/24 and the 4-week quit rate was 57%.
The Department funds community pharmacy to provide a range of commissioned HSC services through an agreed 3-year Commissioning Plan, developed with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy contractors in Northern Ireland.
Work will be commencing in early 2025 to update the current commissioning plan and outline the service priorities for the next three years, aligned with the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan which was launched by my Department in May 2024. Public Health services and campaigns will be further considered during this process and in collaboration with PHA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021099%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424734"}},{"id":"424733","reference":"AQW 21098/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-22","answerBy":"2025-02-06","answered":"2025-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the role community pharmacies play in alleviating pressures on frontline NHS services.","answerText":"Community pharmacy is one of the four pillars of primary care in Northern Ireland and provides vital services for local communities.\n\nCommunity pharmacies are often the first point of contact with the HSC, with an estimated 123,000 patients and members of the public visiting community pharmacies every day in Northern Ireland to access medicines and seek advice from skilled pharmacists and pharmacy staff who are highly trusted by the public.\n\nExamples of community pharmacy services that alleviate pressures on other frontline services include the Emergency Supply Service and Pharmacy First services.\n\nAll pharmacies offer an Emergency Supply Service for situations where people have run out of their medicines and they can’t access their general practice. Up to 16,000 items per month are supplied via this service, avoiding the need for patients to attend Out-of-Hours (OOH) medical services or Emergency Departments to access these medicines or go without essential treatment.\n\nPharmacy First is an umbrella term covering a range of therapy areas which are delivered in community pharmacies obviating the need for patients/clients to access other service providers such as GP practices, GP Out of Hours and Emergency Departments. The range of presentations that can be dealt with through Pharmacy First has expanded from every day conditions such as minor skin infections to management of Urinary Tract Infections and the provision of Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC).\n\nEvaluation of Pharmacy First has demonstrated displacement of activity. For example, since the introduction in 2022 of the Pharmacy First Emergency hormonal contraception service there has been an overall reduction of 46% in the number of prescriptions for EHC issued by GP practices and a similar reduction of 53% in prescribing by OOH medical services.\n\nThe Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2030 commits to further expanding the range of Pharmacy First services. A new Pharmacy First Sore Throat service commenced on 1 December and will run until 31 March 2025 in the majority of community pharmacies. In addition, a Pharmacy First Treatment of Shingles pilot service is currently running in 50 pharmacies for 3 months.\n\nMy Department will be engaging with CPNI over the coming weeks to develop a Commissioning Plan for 2025-2028. These new commissioning arrangements will progress the ambitions set out by my Department’s strategic plan for community pharmacy which outlines a vision for delivery of more clinical services that utilise the skills of pharmacy teams and offer safe, convenient and timely access to care.","answerHtml":"Community pharmacy is one of the four pillars of primary care in Northern Ireland and provides vital services for local communities.
Community pharmacies are often the first point of contact with the HSC, with an estimated 123,000 patients and members of the public visiting community pharmacies every day in Northern Ireland to access medicines and seek advice from skilled pharmacists and pharmacy staff who are highly trusted by the public.
Examples of community pharmacy services that alleviate pressures on other frontline services include the Emergency Supply Service and Pharmacy First services.
All pharmacies offer an Emergency Supply Service for situations where people have run out of their medicines and they can’t access their general practice. Up to 16,000 items per month are supplied via this service, avoiding the need for patients to attend Out-of-Hours (OOH) medical services or Emergency Departments to access these medicines or go without essential treatment.
Pharmacy First is an umbrella term covering a range of therapy areas which are delivered in community pharmacies obviating the need for patients/clients to access other service providers such as GP practices, GP Out of Hours and Emergency Departments. The range of presentations that can be dealt with through Pharmacy First has expanded from every day conditions such as minor skin infections to management of Urinary Tract Infections and the provision of Emergency Hormonal Contraception (EHC).
Evaluation of Pharmacy First has demonstrated displacement of activity. For example, since the introduction in 2022 of the Pharmacy First Emergency hormonal contraception service there has been an overall reduction of 46% in the number of prescriptions for EHC issued by GP practices and a similar reduction of 53% in prescribing by OOH medical services.
The Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan 2030 commits to further expanding the range of Pharmacy First services. A new Pharmacy First Sore Throat service commenced on 1 December and will run until 31 March 2025 in the majority of community pharmacies. In addition, a Pharmacy First Treatment of Shingles pilot service is currently running in 50 pharmacies for 3 months.
My Department will be engaging with CPNI over the coming weeks to develop a Commissioning Plan for 2025-2028. These new commissioning arrangements will progress the ambitions set out by my Department’s strategic plan for community pharmacy which outlines a vision for delivery of more clinical services that utilise the skills of pharmacy teams and offer safe, convenient and timely access to care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021098%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424733","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424733"}},{"id":"424575","reference":"AQW 20986/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-21","answerBy":"2025-02-05","answered":"2025-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any additional support he is considering to improve energy efficiency in homes to help mitigate the impact of Winter Fuel Payment cuts, particularly given the high proportion of older and less energy-efficient housing stock in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My department is currently preparing a consultation on evidence-based options for a domestic energy efficiency programme in line with Action 7 of the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2024. The outcome of this consultation will help to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support. In the interim, the department is working with partners such as the Utility Regulator to assess the options for further scaling of up existing energy efficiency programmes. In this context, my department has provided additional funding of £1m to NISEP in 2023-24 and £2.5m in 2024-25.","answerHtml":"My department is currently preparing a consultation on evidence-based options for a domestic energy efficiency programme in line with Action 7 of the Energy Strategy Action Plan for 2024. The outcome of this consultation will help to inform options regarding the design, rules, and guidance of future support. In the interim, the department is working with partners such as the Utility Regulator to assess the options for further scaling of up existing energy efficiency programmes. In this context, my department has provided additional funding of £1m to NISEP in 2023-24 and £2.5m in 2024-25.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020986%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424575"}},{"id":"424574","reference":"AQW 20985/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-21","answerBy":"2025-02-05","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of hospital admissions for hypothermia of people 65 years of age and over in the last three months; and (ii) how this compares to the same period last year.","answerText":"Admissions1 to Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) hospitals, aged 65 and over with a hypothermia diagnosis2\n\nPeriod\tAdmissions\nOct 23 - Dec 23\t33\nOct 24 - Dec 24P\t8\n\nSource: Hospital Inpatient System and encompass, Hospital Activity Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.\n\nNotes:\n\n1Admissions are approximated using deaths and discharges during the period. Admissions within the Mental Health and Learning Disability Programmes of Care have not been included.\n\nPData for Oct - Dec 2024 are provisional only. Episodic coding works against the NI Coding Target of 3 months so it is likely that there is activity in this period which has yet to be coded and may fit the criteria requested.\n\n2Hospital admissions with hypothermia were identified using the following ICD-10 codes in any of the diagnoses fields of the Hospital Inpatient System and encompass:\n\nT68.X - Hypothermia\n\nR68.0 - Hypothermia, not associated with low environmental temperature\n\n*Both periods include data extracted from encompass (a new electronic patient record system) for South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust from 9 November 2023 and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust from 6 June 2024.\n\nThis subset of the data is classed as \"Official Statistics in Development\" whilst undergoing evaluation.\n\nAs a result, users should exercise some caution with this data.","answerHtml":"Admissions1 to Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) hospitals, aged 65 and over with a hypothermia diagnosis2
| Period | Admissions |
| Oct 23 - Dec 23 | 33 |
| Oct 24 - Dec 24P | 8 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient System and encompass, Hospital Activity Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.
Notes:
1Admissions are approximated using deaths and discharges during the period. Admissions within the Mental Health and Learning Disability Programmes of Care have not been included.
PData for Oct - Dec 2024 are provisional only. Episodic coding works against the NI Coding Target of 3 months so it is likely that there is activity in this period which has yet to be coded and may fit the criteria requested.
2Hospital admissions with hypothermia were identified using the following ICD-10 codes in any of the diagnoses fields of the Hospital Inpatient System and encompass:
T68.X - Hypothermia
R68.0 - Hypothermia, not associated with low environmental temperature
*Both periods include data extracted from encompass (a new electronic patient record system) for South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust from 9 November 2023 and Belfast Health and Social Care Trust from 6 June 2024.
This subset of the data is classed as "Official Statistics in Development" whilst undergoing evaluation.
As a result, users should exercise some caution with this data.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020985%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424574"}},{"id":"424573","reference":"AQW 20984/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-21","answerBy":"2025-02-05","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any assessment that has been made of the economic and social impacts of cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment on vulnerable groups in Northern Ireland, particularly in rural areas where access to affordable heating options is limited.","answerText":"An Equality Impact Assessment public consultation on the cuts to the Winter Fuel Payments scheme by the Labour government in winter 2024/25 was launched by the department on 9 December 2024 and runs for 12 weeks until 2nd March 2025.\n\nThat consultation seeks the public views on the proposed preliminary recommendations with regards to measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the policy changes. The department will respond to the public consultation after an analysis of the responses received.","answerHtml":"An Equality Impact Assessment public consultation on the cuts to the Winter Fuel Payments scheme by the Labour government in winter 2024/25 was launched by the department on 9 December 2024 and runs for 12 weeks until 2nd March 2025.
That consultation seeks the public views on the proposed preliminary recommendations with regards to measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the policy changes. The department will respond to the public consultation after an analysis of the responses received.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020984%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424573","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424573"}},{"id":"424572","reference":"AQW 20983/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-21","answerBy":"2025-02-05","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any considerations his Department has made to mitigate the disproportionate effects of cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment on households in Northern Ireland, given the higher prevalence of fuel poverty in the region compared to the rest of the UK.","answerText":"I refer to my statement in the Assembly on 19 November 2024 regarding the one-off emergency fuel payment of £100 to pensioner households no longer eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment this winter.\n\nI am also currently consulting on a draft Fuel Poverty Strategy that will provide a long-term framework for reducing fuel poverty. It will contribute to improving energy efficiency in homes and provide support and protection for those living in or at risk of fuel poverty.","answerHtml":"I refer to my statement in the Assembly on 19 November 2024 regarding the one-off emergency fuel payment of £100 to pensioner households no longer eligible for the Winter Fuel Payment this winter.
I am also currently consulting on a draft Fuel Poverty Strategy that will provide a long-term framework for reducing fuel poverty. It will contribute to improving energy efficiency in homes and provide support and protection for those living in or at risk of fuel poverty.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020983%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424572","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424572"}},{"id":"424571","reference":"AQW 20982/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-21","answerBy":"2025-02-05","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) why the decision to implement cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment was made prior to the publication of the draft Equality Impact Assessment; and (ii) how this aligns with the Department’s statutory equality obligations under Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.","answerText":"The decision was made to implement the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment scheme before the draft EQIA to ensure that eligible pensioners in Northern Ireland would receive their payment before the end of 2024.\n\nThe department’s Equality Scheme provides that in exceptional circumstances, where a policy must be implemented immediately, consultation may be undertaken after the implementation of the policy. This is in line with guidance from the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The decision was made to implement the changes to the Winter Fuel Payment scheme before the draft EQIA to ensure that eligible pensioners in Northern Ireland would receive their payment before the end of 2024.
The department’s Equality Scheme provides that in exceptional circumstances, where a policy must be implemented immediately, consultation may be undertaken after the implementation of the policy. This is in line with guidance from the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020982%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424571"}},{"id":"424348","reference":"AQW 20882/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-20","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any actions his Department is taking to improve public confidence in cervical cancer screening services.","answerText":"Over 99% of cervical cancers are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). Primary HPV testing, with cervical cytology as a second line test for those women who test positive for HPV, was fully implemented into the NI Cervical Screening programme from 11 December 2023. Primary HPV testing is an automated test which identifies the presence of HPV and was recommended by the UK National Screening Committee because it is a more accurate test, and will save more lives, than cervical cytology alone.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) is monitoring awareness, confidence and barriers to participation in cervical screening and will continue to use this information to inform future promotional activities. Coverage data (used a measurement of participation in the Cervical Screening Programme) is now available for 2023/24 and shows an increase in age appropriate coverage across all Trusts in 2023/24, compared to 2022/23.\n\nMy Department’s Cervical Screening Oversight and Assurance Group, continues to receive and seek assurances on the overall performance of the cervical screening programme; to include maintaining and building on public confidence in the programme.","answerHtml":"Over 99% of cervical cancers are caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). Primary HPV testing, with cervical cytology as a second line test for those women who test positive for HPV, was fully implemented into the NI Cervical Screening programme from 11 December 2023. Primary HPV testing is an automated test which identifies the presence of HPV and was recommended by the UK National Screening Committee because it is a more accurate test, and will save more lives, than cervical cytology alone.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is monitoring awareness, confidence and barriers to participation in cervical screening and will continue to use this information to inform future promotional activities. Coverage data (used a measurement of participation in the Cervical Screening Programme) is now available for 2023/24 and shows an increase in age appropriate coverage across all Trusts in 2023/24, compared to 2022/23.
My Department’s Cervical Screening Oversight and Assurance Group, continues to receive and seek assurances on the overall performance of the cervical screening programme; to include maintaining and building on public confidence in the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020882%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424348"}},{"id":"424347","reference":"AQW 20881/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-20","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any collaborative steps being taken with other Departments to inform young people about the importance of regular cervical screening and cervical cancer prevention.","answerText":"The Cervical Screening Programme is available to women registered with a GP, aged between 25-64 years old and Public Health Agency screening promotional activities target this age group.\n\nIn addition to the established Cervical Screening Programme, there is also an HPV vaccination school-based programme across NI which has been in place for girls in school year 9 since 2008 and was extended to include all boys in school year 9 from September 2019. Promotional material provided to the schools highlights that while the HPV vaccine reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer, it does not eliminate it and therefore anyone eligible called to attend cervical screening should still attend. Anyone who remains unvaccinated can request the vaccine, via their GP, up until they are 25 years of age.\n\nThe PHA collaborates with a number of relevant agencies to inform young people about the importance of cervical cancer prevention. These include:\n\nDevelopment of webinars to promote vaccination and educate teaching staff, young people and their parents on the benefits of the HPV vaccine, in collaboration with Cancer Focus, sporting bodies and NHSCT;\n\nDevelopment of social media resources for schools to promote HPV vaccine;\n\nCommunication to all schools via the Education Authority promoting the HPV vaccine among school staff as well as sharing resources above;\n\nInternational Women's Day celebration event promoting HPV vaccine with Year 8-10 students;\n\nWorld Immunisation Week celebration, including digital creator competition to promote HPV vaccine;\n\nProvision of HPV vaccination catch-up clinics at universities, including promotion event during Fresher's week; and\n\nTargeted school visit programme to five NI schools with lowest HPV uptake - talks and presentations given by PHA staff to school assembly\n\nThe PHA continues to monitor awareness, confidence and barriers to participation in cervical screening and continues to use this information to inform future promotional activities.","answerHtml":"The Cervical Screening Programme is available to women registered with a GP, aged between 25-64 years old and Public Health Agency screening promotional activities target this age group.
In addition to the established Cervical Screening Programme, there is also an HPV vaccination school-based programme across NI which has been in place for girls in school year 9 since 2008 and was extended to include all boys in school year 9 from September 2019. Promotional material provided to the schools highlights that while the HPV vaccine reduces the risk of developing cervical cancer, it does not eliminate it and therefore anyone eligible called to attend cervical screening should still attend. Anyone who remains unvaccinated can request the vaccine, via their GP, up until they are 25 years of age.
The PHA collaborates with a number of relevant agencies to inform young people about the importance of cervical cancer prevention. These include:
Development of webinars to promote vaccination and educate teaching staff, young people and their parents on the benefits of the HPV vaccine, in collaboration with Cancer Focus, sporting bodies and NHSCT;
Development of social media resources for schools to promote HPV vaccine;
Communication to all schools via the Education Authority promoting the HPV vaccine among school staff as well as sharing resources above;
International Women's Day celebration event promoting HPV vaccine with Year 8-10 students;
World Immunisation Week celebration, including digital creator competition to promote HPV vaccine;
Provision of HPV vaccination catch-up clinics at universities, including promotion event during Fresher's week; and
Targeted school visit programme to five NI schools with lowest HPV uptake - talks and presentations given by PHA staff to school assembly
The PHA continues to monitor awareness, confidence and barriers to participation in cervical screening and continues to use this information to inform future promotional activities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020881%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424347"}},{"id":"424346","reference":"AQW 20880/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-20","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he has considered implementing a long-term strategy to protect vulnerable older people from escalating energy costs, particularly in light of the recent reduction in the Winter Fuel Payment.","answerText":"I have launched a 12-week consultation on a draft Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland which ends on 6 March 2025. This strategy proposes a vision of “A Warm, Healthy Home for Everyone” and by alleviating fuel poverty, will have positive impacts on both mental and physical health, especially for the most vulnerable in society.\n\nThe strategy focuses on making homes more energy efficient to address the root causes of fuel poverty and reduce the poor health outcomes associated with cold homes. It will also address how to support those living in or at risk of fuel poverty, improve consumer protection and include proposals for a new fuel poverty energy efficiency scheme.","answerHtml":"I have launched a 12-week consultation on a draft Fuel Poverty Strategy for Northern Ireland which ends on 6 March 2025. This strategy proposes a vision of “A Warm, Healthy Home for Everyone” and by alleviating fuel poverty, will have positive impacts on both mental and physical health, especially for the most vulnerable in society.
The strategy focuses on making homes more energy efficient to address the root causes of fuel poverty and reduce the poor health outcomes associated with cold homes. It will also address how to support those living in or at risk of fuel poverty, improve consumer protection and include proposals for a new fuel poverty energy efficiency scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020880%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424346"}},{"id":"424345","reference":"AQW 20879/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-20","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of the impact of the reduction of the Winter Fuel Payment for older people, particularly those already experiencing fuel poverty.","answerText":"An Equality Impact Assessment public consultation on the changes to the Winter Fuel Payments scheme in winter 2024/25 was launched by the department on 9 December 2024 and runs for 12 weeks until 2nd March 2025.\n\nThat consultation seeks the public views on the proposed preliminary recommendations with regards to measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the policy changes. The department will respond to the public consultation after an analysis of the responses received.\n\nIn addition, I have proposed within the current draft Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation, which is also currently open, to analyse the impact of the removal of Winter Fuel Payments on pensioners who are above the threshold for Pension Credit to gain a better understanding of who may be at risk of fuel poverty because of the change.","answerHtml":"An Equality Impact Assessment public consultation on the changes to the Winter Fuel Payments scheme in winter 2024/25 was launched by the department on 9 December 2024 and runs for 12 weeks until 2nd March 2025.
That consultation seeks the public views on the proposed preliminary recommendations with regards to measures to mitigate the adverse impacts of the policy changes. The department will respond to the public consultation after an analysis of the responses received.
In addition, I have proposed within the current draft Fuel Poverty Strategy consultation, which is also currently open, to analyse the impact of the removal of Winter Fuel Payments on pensioners who are above the threshold for Pension Credit to gain a better understanding of who may be at risk of fuel poverty because of the change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020879%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424345","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424345"}},{"id":"424344","reference":"AQW 20878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-20","answerBy":"2025-02-04","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the impact that cuts to the Winter Fuel Payment has had on hospital admissions among older people, particularly where inadequate heating worsens health conditions.","answerText":"The analysis of admissions of older people to hospital where these are a directly related to winter fuel payments would be challenging to determine given what are often multiple variables leading to a decision to admit. The recent exceptional volume of admissions associated with viral conditions would make an accurate determination further challenging to conclude on this matter.\n\nNotwithstanding this position, my Department fully recognises the well-established correlation between poverty and ill health as a key driver in health inequalities across all populations. My Department remains fully committed to addressing health inequalities through the strategic framework of Making Life Better which provides focused polices and actions across every spectrum of care, supported by multidisciplinary and multiagency arrangements and formally reported on through regular progress reports.","answerHtml":"The analysis of admissions of older people to hospital where these are a directly related to winter fuel payments would be challenging to determine given what are often multiple variables leading to a decision to admit. The recent exceptional volume of admissions associated with viral conditions would make an accurate determination further challenging to conclude on this matter.
Notwithstanding this position, my Department fully recognises the well-established correlation between poverty and ill health as a key driver in health inequalities across all populations. My Department remains fully committed to addressing health inequalities through the strategic framework of Making Life Better which provides focused polices and actions across every spectrum of care, supported by multidisciplinary and multiagency arrangements and formally reported on through regular progress reports.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424344"}},{"id":"424117","reference":"AQW 20793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) how the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls will address the distinct experiences of older female victims of domestic abuse; and (ii) any cross-departmental strategies under the framework to address ageism and its role in exacerbating elder abuse.","answerText":"The Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) is designed to address the whole range of gender-based violence, abuse and harm that is disproportionately experienced by women and girls.\n\nAge NI played a key role in the co-design process for developing the Strategic Framework. The voices of those with lived experience, including older women, were central to shaping its design. This approach will continue throughout implementation through various mechanisms including the Insights and Reference Network.\n\nDepartment for Communities officials were part of the co-design process of the EVAWG Strategic Framework. This will ensure that it complements and supports the ongoing work of the Department for Communities, including on how best to build on the previous Executive Active Ageing Strategy.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) is designed to address the whole range of gender-based violence, abuse and harm that is disproportionately experienced by women and girls.
Age NI played a key role in the co-design process for developing the Strategic Framework. The voices of those with lived experience, including older women, were central to shaping its design. This approach will continue throughout implementation through various mechanisms including the Insights and Reference Network.
Department for Communities officials were part of the co-design process of the EVAWG Strategic Framework. This will ensure that it complements and supports the ongoing work of the Department for Communities, including on how best to build on the previous Executive Active Ageing Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424117"}},{"id":"424116","reference":"AQW 20792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any work (i) specifically aimed at educating older people about domestic elder abuse; and (ii) to increase accessibility to housing and financial support for older victims of domestic abuse who wish to leave abusive environments.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive has recently published a Domestic Abuse Action Plan which can be found at www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/089a6b60-dfdf-4a54-ae43-dd04340fc082/Domestic-Abuse-Action-Plan.pdf.\n\nThe Housing Executive has been engaging with Hourglass in the delivery of actions specific to older people, particularly in raising awareness amongst our staff in relation to domestic elder abuse and the promotion of Hourglass as a means of support and assistance. The Housing Executive will continue to work with Hourglass to ensure the specific needs of older people/older victims of domestic abuse are represented in the delivery of the Domestic Abuse Action Plan.\n\nThe Housing Executive also provides support and assistance via our Financial Inclusion Managers who can support customers with money worries, debt advice and/or benefits with an overall aim of assisting them to maximise their income, reduce money worries and thereby sustain current accommodation (where appropriate in cases of domestic abuse) and/or prepare for a new permanent home.\n\nWomen at risk of domestic violence are supported through Supporting People funded, short-term emergency accommodation-based refuge services, providing support for those in housing need. Support is also provided through short-term Floating Support services for those who choose to remain at home or in a community setting. The aim of support is to help women with needs specific to their domestic abuse situation make informed choices about their accommodation and be able to maintain/sustain a home. Support can also include help to access other agencies and services.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive has recently published a Domestic Abuse Action Plan which can be found at www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/089a6b60-dfdf-4a54-ae43-dd04340fc082/Domestic-Abuse-Action-Plan.pdf.
The Housing Executive has been engaging with Hourglass in the delivery of actions specific to older people, particularly in raising awareness amongst our staff in relation to domestic elder abuse and the promotion of Hourglass as a means of support and assistance. The Housing Executive will continue to work with Hourglass to ensure the specific needs of older people/older victims of domestic abuse are represented in the delivery of the Domestic Abuse Action Plan.
The Housing Executive also provides support and assistance via our Financial Inclusion Managers who can support customers with money worries, debt advice and/or benefits with an overall aim of assisting them to maximise their income, reduce money worries and thereby sustain current accommodation (where appropriate in cases of domestic abuse) and/or prepare for a new permanent home.
Women at risk of domestic violence are supported through Supporting People funded, short-term emergency accommodation-based refuge services, providing support for those in housing need. Support is also provided through short-term Floating Support services for those who choose to remain at home or in a community setting. The aim of support is to help women with needs specific to their domestic abuse situation make informed choices about their accommodation and be able to maintain/sustain a home. Support can also include help to access other agencies and services.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424116"}},{"id":"424115","reference":"AQW 20791/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how his Department and statutory agencies are addressing the connection of elder care and domestic abuse, particularly for victims with reduced mental or physical capacity; and (ii) whether health and social care providers are able to recognise signs of domestic abuse among older patients.","answerText":"The Department of Health collaborates with the Department of Justice and other statutory agencies to address the intersection of elder care and domestic abuse. This collaborative effort is encapsulated in the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy (2024-31) which was formally launched on 25 September 2024 and is jointly led by the Departments of Health and Justice. The Strategy recognises that anyone can be a victim of domestic and/or sexual abuse regardless of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any form of disability. The Strategy also recognises that while anyone can experience domestic and /or sexual abuse, some people may be more at risk or may face additional barriers in accessing services and will therefore require specialist support and intervention. For example, older people face a number of additional barriers to seeking support including generational views about faith, loyalty, shame and guilt. In some cases, they may find it difficult to report if the person is abusing them is also their carer or they are financially dependent on them. The Strategy acknowledges the importance of identifying and responding to the intersectional needs of victims, to both prevent abuse from happening and to provide appropriate support in the event that it does occur.\n\nThe Department of Health is developing an Adult Protection Bill which will introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin the adult protection process. The Adult Protection Bill will see the introduction of a number of duties and powers to assist in enquiries and the protection of all adults at risk.\n\nHealth and Social Care staff are provided with training to identify and respond effectively to domestic abuse. Staff are supported to consider and discuss the contexts in which domestic abuse can manifest, dispel myths about where domestic abuse can occur and who can experience domestic abuse. This will include acknowledgement of the safety strategies and resilience that older victims develop over time, increasing physical and social dependencies of both the victim and the alleged perpetrator, family and social perception/support or lack of and isolation. Training supports staff to be aware and recognise those potentially more vulnerable groups of people that could be at higher risk of abuse, such as those with reduced mental or physical capacity.\n\nWhen staff have concerns that a service user or patient is experiencing domestic abuse, an adult safeguarding referral is progressed on their behalf and a DASH Risk Assessment is completed with the individual. Should a professional assessment indicate that a service user is at high risk from domestic violence, a referral is made to the MARAC Forum. Trusts engage in this Forum to ensure that information is shared with multi-agency partners in a timely manner, and that plans are implemented to support victim’s safety. Should an adult be deemed ‘an adult in need of protection from domestic abuse’, trained Adult Safeguarding Designated Adult Protection Officers and Investigating Officers work with victims to implement protection plans to mitigate against risks.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health collaborates with the Department of Justice and other statutory agencies to address the intersection of elder care and domestic abuse. This collaborative effort is encapsulated in the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy (2024-31) which was formally launched on 25 September 2024 and is jointly led by the Departments of Health and Justice. The Strategy recognises that anyone can be a victim of domestic and/or sexual abuse regardless of age, ethnicity, religion, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or any form of disability. The Strategy also recognises that while anyone can experience domestic and /or sexual abuse, some people may be more at risk or may face additional barriers in accessing services and will therefore require specialist support and intervention. For example, older people face a number of additional barriers to seeking support including generational views about faith, loyalty, shame and guilt. In some cases, they may find it difficult to report if the person is abusing them is also their carer or they are financially dependent on them. The Strategy acknowledges the importance of identifying and responding to the intersectional needs of victims, to both prevent abuse from happening and to provide appropriate support in the event that it does occur.
The Department of Health is developing an Adult Protection Bill which will introduce additional protections to strengthen and underpin the adult protection process. The Adult Protection Bill will see the introduction of a number of duties and powers to assist in enquiries and the protection of all adults at risk.
Health and Social Care staff are provided with training to identify and respond effectively to domestic abuse. Staff are supported to consider and discuss the contexts in which domestic abuse can manifest, dispel myths about where domestic abuse can occur and who can experience domestic abuse. This will include acknowledgement of the safety strategies and resilience that older victims develop over time, increasing physical and social dependencies of both the victim and the alleged perpetrator, family and social perception/support or lack of and isolation. Training supports staff to be aware and recognise those potentially more vulnerable groups of people that could be at higher risk of abuse, such as those with reduced mental or physical capacity.
When staff have concerns that a service user or patient is experiencing domestic abuse, an adult safeguarding referral is progressed on their behalf and a DASH Risk Assessment is completed with the individual. Should a professional assessment indicate that a service user is at high risk from domestic violence, a referral is made to the MARAC Forum. Trusts engage in this Forum to ensure that information is shared with multi-agency partners in a timely manner, and that plans are implemented to support victim’s safety. Should an adult be deemed ‘an adult in need of protection from domestic abuse’, trained Adult Safeguarding Designated Adult Protection Officers and Investigating Officers work with victims to implement protection plans to mitigate against risks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020791%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424115"}},{"id":"424114","reference":"AQW 20790/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how the criminal justice system is equipped to meet the specific needs of older victims of domestic abuse.","answerText":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031, which is jointly led by my Department and the Department of Health, adopts an inclusive approach, recognising the diversity of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse and their needs.\n\nThe Strategy acknowledges that there will be specific challenges faced by older victims of domestic and sexual abuse and the Strategy’s Expert Reference Group (ERG) includes representation from the organisation ‘Hourglass’ to ensure that the voices and perspectives of older victims help to inform policy decisions and the development of services.\n\nOne of the actions included in the Strategy’s Action Plan is to consider intersectionality and the barriers faced by specific groups (including older people) and then to identify and implement measures to address these, subject to funding. My officials have spoken to Hourglass who have agreed to be involved in this work, in respect of older people.\n\nYou may also be aware that my Department also funds the delivery of a Northern Ireland wide advocacy service, by ASSIST NI, to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse who are engaged with the criminal justice system. ASSIST NI offers a service tailored to the individual needs of each victim, they provide guidance, information, work with other service providers and advocate on victim’s behalf to secure the help and resources they require. Advocates are trained to understand and recognise the barriers faced by specific groups, including older people, and will work with them to provide support that meets their needs.","answerHtml":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy 2024-2031, which is jointly led by my Department and the Department of Health, adopts an inclusive approach, recognising the diversity of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse and their needs.
The Strategy acknowledges that there will be specific challenges faced by older victims of domestic and sexual abuse and the Strategy’s Expert Reference Group (ERG) includes representation from the organisation ‘Hourglass’ to ensure that the voices and perspectives of older victims help to inform policy decisions and the development of services.
One of the actions included in the Strategy’s Action Plan is to consider intersectionality and the barriers faced by specific groups (including older people) and then to identify and implement measures to address these, subject to funding. My officials have spoken to Hourglass who have agreed to be involved in this work, in respect of older people.
You may also be aware that my Department also funds the delivery of a Northern Ireland wide advocacy service, by ASSIST NI, to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse who are engaged with the criminal justice system. ASSIST NI offers a service tailored to the individual needs of each victim, they provide guidance, information, work with other service providers and advocate on victim’s behalf to secure the help and resources they require. Advocates are trained to understand and recognise the barriers faced by specific groups, including older people, and will work with them to provide support that meets their needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020790%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424114"}},{"id":"424113","reference":"AQW 20789/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-17","answerBy":"2025-02-03","answered":"2025-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how she is ensuring consistent collection and analysis of data on domestic abuse against older people, including age-specific patterns and barriers to reporting.","answerText":"The Department of Justice collates information in relation to prosecutions, convictions and out of courts disposals in relation to domestic abuse. However, these datasets do not contain information on victim age, in relation to older people.\n\nThe Department also commissions the Northern Ireland Safe Community Survey, which had included a self-completion module to capture respondents’ experiences of domestic abuse. The module had to be suspended due to a change in survey mode as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nA further change in mode from 2024/25 means the module has been reinstated and will be included biennially going forward, though the changes have impacted the comparability of findings from the survey. Breakdowns by age would also be subject to sufficient sample size.\n\nThe Police Service of Northern Ireland record information in relation to domestic abuse related offences reported to them. Issues around recording and analysis of data recorded by police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the recording and analysis of police data, as raised in the question, to the PSNI.\n\nLooking forward, my Department plans to take forward additional work in partnership with the community and voluntary sector, and with officials in the Executive Office, to explore how we can better utilise the data held across various sectors. This collaborative work will be taken forward under the multi-year action plan stemming from the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. By taking this joined up approach, we aim to enhance our understanding of the nature and scale of domestic abuse in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice collates information in relation to prosecutions, convictions and out of courts disposals in relation to domestic abuse. However, these datasets do not contain information on victim age, in relation to older people.
The Department also commissions the Northern Ireland Safe Community Survey, which had included a self-completion module to capture respondents’ experiences of domestic abuse. The module had to be suspended due to a change in survey mode as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
A further change in mode from 2024/25 means the module has been reinstated and will be included biennially going forward, though the changes have impacted the comparability of findings from the survey. Breakdowns by age would also be subject to sufficient sample size.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland record information in relation to domestic abuse related offences reported to them. Issues around recording and analysis of data recorded by police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the recording and analysis of police data, as raised in the question, to the PSNI.
Looking forward, my Department plans to take forward additional work in partnership with the community and voluntary sector, and with officials in the Executive Office, to explore how we can better utilise the data held across various sectors. This collaborative work will be taken forward under the multi-year action plan stemming from the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. By taking this joined up approach, we aim to enhance our understanding of the nature and scale of domestic abuse in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020789%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424113"}},{"id":"423774","reference":"AQW 20619/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to review health and social care pathways, in order to offer patients various options of healthcare that consider individual circumstances and quality of life rather than following a standard pathway for a particular ailment.","answerText":"My Department fully supports the responsive provision of choices and options for patients in where and how they receive their care where this can be done safely and cost effectively within available resources.\n\nClinical care pathways aim to standardise arrangements and reduce variation in care in line with best practice to optimise outcomes. Notwithstanding this approach, HSC providers will routinely endeavour, where clinically safe and operationally possible to do so, to accommodate patient choice in respect of where and how treatment is delivered. In most instances these arrangements will relate to providing care as close as possible to the patient’s home.\n\nSome types of care pathway will include options and choices consistent with the needs of specific cohorts. For example, in palliative care, pathways support the delivery of co-ordinated services to enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their place of care, greater access to services and improved outcomes at the end of their lives.\n\nHighly specialised services, such as liver or heart transplants, are not delivered locally as our small population cannot support the volume of activity to maintain the skills needed for these complex procedures. Highly specialised services are only provided in a very small number of NHS accredited providers in GB. Although this involves travel and limits choice, these arrangements ensure that patients from Northern Ireland can be assured of equitable access to the best care the NHS can offer.","answerHtml":"My Department fully supports the responsive provision of choices and options for patients in where and how they receive their care where this can be done safely and cost effectively within available resources.
Clinical care pathways aim to standardise arrangements and reduce variation in care in line with best practice to optimise outcomes. Notwithstanding this approach, HSC providers will routinely endeavour, where clinically safe and operationally possible to do so, to accommodate patient choice in respect of where and how treatment is delivered. In most instances these arrangements will relate to providing care as close as possible to the patient’s home.
Some types of care pathway will include options and choices consistent with the needs of specific cohorts. For example, in palliative care, pathways support the delivery of co-ordinated services to enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their place of care, greater access to services and improved outcomes at the end of their lives.
Highly specialised services, such as liver or heart transplants, are not delivered locally as our small population cannot support the volume of activity to maintain the skills needed for these complex procedures. Highly specialised services are only provided in a very small number of NHS accredited providers in GB. Although this involves travel and limits choice, these arrangements ensure that patients from Northern Ireland can be assured of equitable access to the best care the NHS can offer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020619%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423774","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423774"}},{"id":"423773","reference":"AQW 20618/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has considered any short-term programmes to clear lengthy waiting lists, including private health and social care and cross-border initiatives.","answerText":"Long waiting times are unacceptable and addressing this issue is a key priority for me. The Elective Care Framework (ECF) (May 2024) sets out a roadmap for tackling lengthy waiting times. This Framework sets the strategic direction for the development and transformation of elective care services in Northern Ireland over the next five years and details the measures needed to address the unacceptable waiting lists here.\n\nReducing waiting lists will not be a quick fix. Positive achievements have been made and there have been small but tangible improvements in the waiting list position here over the last few years, but much more still needs to be done.\n\nFull implementation of the ECF, including further development of elective care centres, enhancing Independent Sector engagement and any new reimbursement scheme requires sustainable funding. The £76m made available this year was used to treat cancer/red flag patients and falls far short of the funding required to tackle lengthy waits.\n\nA bid for £80m recurrent funding, as well as an additional £135m per year, for up to five years, to clear the backlog, was made but not met and the position in next year's draft budget is equally bleak.\n\nIf the waiting list bid of £135m put forward for 2024/25 had been approved by the Executive, (above the 75-80m required for red-flag and time critical patients), significant progress could be made to improve waiting times. However, this is regrettably not possible within the current budget allocation. Below is the planning summary of intended spend of the £135m.\n\nSpecialty/Procedure\tApproximate patient numbers\tApproximate Cost\nDermatology new outpatient assessment\t6,000 patients waiting over 4 years\t£2.8m\nCataract procedures\t2,800 patients waiting\t£5m\nPrimary hip/primary knee and other long waiting orthopaedic procedures\t3,500 patients waiting over 2 years\n+\n900 patients waiting over 4 years\t£42m (2 years waits)\n+\n£11m (4-year waits)\nLaparoscopic Cholecystectomy\t1,000 patients waiting over 4 years\t£4.5m\nTonsillectomies\t1,100 patients (many of whom are children) waiting over 4 years\t£3.5m\nRheumatology\noutpatient assessment\t2,100 patients waiting over 3 years\t£1.4m\nGynaecology\noutpatient assessment\t4,200 patients waiting over 3 years\t£2.5m\nHernia Treatment\t800 patients waiting over 4 years\t£4m\nColonoscopy\t1,905 patients waiting over 3 years\t£2.4m\nOGD\t1,025 patients waiting over 3 years\t£0.8m\nOther\t1,900 patients across a number of specialities\t£6m\nScheme\tApproximate patient numbers\tApproximate Cost\nReimbursement Scheme\t4,000 patients waiting over 1 year – largely orthopaedics\t£31m\nPrimary Care Elective Care\t17,000 patients across a number of specialities, including dermatology, gynaecology and MSK\t£3m\nMega Clinics\t20,000 patients across a number of specialities\t£10m\nOther including validation\t\t£5m\nTotal\t134.9m\n\nI will continue to do all I can, in this constrained financial environment, however, without the investment needed I cannot fund a new cross-border scheme, nor can I address the lack of community capacity significantly in the short term.","answerHtml":"Long waiting times are unacceptable and addressing this issue is a key priority for me. The Elective Care Framework (ECF) (May 2024) sets out a roadmap for tackling lengthy waiting times. This Framework sets the strategic direction for the development and transformation of elective care services in Northern Ireland over the next five years and details the measures needed to address the unacceptable waiting lists here.
Reducing waiting lists will not be a quick fix. Positive achievements have been made and there have been small but tangible improvements in the waiting list position here over the last few years, but much more still needs to be done.
Full implementation of the ECF, including further development of elective care centres, enhancing Independent Sector engagement and any new reimbursement scheme requires sustainable funding. The £76m made available this year was used to treat cancer/red flag patients and falls far short of the funding required to tackle lengthy waits.
A bid for £80m recurrent funding, as well as an additional £135m per year, for up to five years, to clear the backlog, was made but not met and the position in next year's draft budget is equally bleak.
If the waiting list bid of £135m put forward for 2024/25 had been approved by the Executive, (above the 75-80m required for red-flag and time critical patients), significant progress could be made to improve waiting times. However, this is regrettably not possible within the current budget allocation. Below is the planning summary of intended spend of the £135m.
| Specialty/Procedure | Approximate patient numbers | Approximate Cost |
| Dermatology new outpatient assessment | 6,000 patients waiting over 4 years | £2.8m |
| Cataract procedures | 2,800 patients waiting | £5m |
| Primary hip/primary knee and other long waiting orthopaedic procedures | 3,500 patients waiting over 2 years + 900 patients waiting over 4 years | £42m (2 years waits) + £11m (4-year waits) |
| Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy | 1,000 patients waiting over 4 years | £4.5m |
| Tonsillectomies | 1,100 patients (many of whom are children) waiting over 4 years | £3.5m |
| Rheumatology outpatient assessment | 2,100 patients waiting over 3 years | £1.4m |
| Gynaecology outpatient assessment | 4,200 patients waiting over 3 years | £2.5m |
| Hernia Treatment | 800 patients waiting over 4 years | £4m |
| Colonoscopy | 1,905 patients waiting over 3 years | £2.4m |
| OGD | 1,025 patients waiting over 3 years | £0.8m |
| Other | 1,900 patients across a number of specialities | £6m |
| Scheme | Approximate patient numbers | Approximate Cost |
| Reimbursement Scheme | 4,000 patients waiting over 1 year – largely orthopaedics | £31m |
| Primary Care Elective Care | 17,000 patients across a number of specialities, including dermatology, gynaecology and MSK | £3m |
| Mega Clinics | 20,000 patients across a number of specialities | £10m |
| Other including validation | £5m | |
| Total | 134.9m |
I will continue to do all I can, in this constrained financial environment, however, without the investment needed I cannot fund a new cross-border scheme, nor can I address the lack of community capacity significantly in the short term.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020618%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423773"}},{"id":"423772","reference":"AQW 20617/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to redirect and fund additional health and social care services to community practitioners, including pharmacists and opticians.","answerText":"The Department funds community pharmacy to provide a range of commissioned HSC services through an agreed 3-year Commissioning Plan, developed with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy contractors in Northern Ireland.\n\nWork will be commencing in early 2025 to update the current commissioning plan and outline the service priorities for the next three years, aligned with the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan. An additional £15m, is required to support the delivery of new community pharmacy services once the commissioning priorities are agreed through the refresh of the Commissioning Plan. However, this is dependent on my Department securing the appropriate funding for the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan.\n\nThe Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan, developed collaboratively between the Department and CPNI, outlines the vision and strategic priorities for community pharmacy up to 2030. The Strategic Plan builds on the foundations already established in the Commissioning Plan for 2022-25 for community pharmacy and aims to develop more community pharmacy services and incorporate independent prescribing and advanced practice to support the goals of the health and social care service.\n\nThe Strategic Plan will require funding, legislative reform and contractual arrangements to deliver the full vision outlined. This will not be achieved overnight but my Department is committed to its implementation and will work to develop business cases for funding.\n\nMy Department is also committed to supporting the role of pharmacists in general practice and to support them to contribute fully to optimising the health outcomes of our population as the clinical leads for medicines within the general practice team. “GPP NI 2030: A strategy for general practice pharmacy in Northern Ireland” sets out a vision for developing the general practice pharmacy workforce, including the introduction of new advanced practice pharmacist roles. Further development of the GP Pharmacy workforce through advanced practice roles will be included in the Multidisciplinary Teams model, once that is rolled out.\n\nMy Department has, for a number of years, been commissioning a range of enhanced health services from community optometrists. These services reduce pressure on hospital eye services, facilitate patients being treated closer to home, and enable primary care optometry practitioners to fully utilise their skill mix. With respect to potential future funded pathways, a 2023 “NI PEARS Plus” pilot project, which allowed IP optometrists to manage additional conditions in the community, has just been fully evaluated and the outcomes will be considered in line with funding priorities.","answerHtml":"The Department funds community pharmacy to provide a range of commissioned HSC services through an agreed 3-year Commissioning Plan, developed with Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy contractors in Northern Ireland.
Work will be commencing in early 2025 to update the current commissioning plan and outline the service priorities for the next three years, aligned with the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan. An additional £15m, is required to support the delivery of new community pharmacy services once the commissioning priorities are agreed through the refresh of the Commissioning Plan. However, this is dependent on my Department securing the appropriate funding for the Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan.
The Community Pharmacy Strategic Plan, developed collaboratively between the Department and CPNI, outlines the vision and strategic priorities for community pharmacy up to 2030. The Strategic Plan builds on the foundations already established in the Commissioning Plan for 2022-25 for community pharmacy and aims to develop more community pharmacy services and incorporate independent prescribing and advanced practice to support the goals of the health and social care service.
The Strategic Plan will require funding, legislative reform and contractual arrangements to deliver the full vision outlined. This will not be achieved overnight but my Department is committed to its implementation and will work to develop business cases for funding.
My Department is also committed to supporting the role of pharmacists in general practice and to support them to contribute fully to optimising the health outcomes of our population as the clinical leads for medicines within the general practice team. “GPP NI 2030: A strategy for general practice pharmacy in Northern Ireland” sets out a vision for developing the general practice pharmacy workforce, including the introduction of new advanced practice pharmacist roles. Further development of the GP Pharmacy workforce through advanced practice roles will be included in the Multidisciplinary Teams model, once that is rolled out.
My Department has, for a number of years, been commissioning a range of enhanced health services from community optometrists. These services reduce pressure on hospital eye services, facilitate patients being treated closer to home, and enable primary care optometry practitioners to fully utilise their skill mix. With respect to potential future funded pathways, a 2023 “NI PEARS Plus” pilot project, which allowed IP optometrists to manage additional conditions in the community, has just been fully evaluated and the outcomes will be considered in line with funding priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020617%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423772"}},{"id":"423771","reference":"AQW 20616/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has considered 24-hour minor injury facilities within communities to ease pressure on Emergency Departments.","answerText":"When establishing minor injury facilities and urgent care services across the province, operating hours were considered and agreed within the context of demand and resources available, and within the context of existing urgent and emergency care service provision in each Trust.\n\nAll Trusts have minor injury units associated with their acute hospital or attached to a community hospital(s).","answerHtml":"When establishing minor injury facilities and urgent care services across the province, operating hours were considered and agreed within the context of demand and resources available, and within the context of existing urgent and emergency care service provision in each Trust.
All Trusts have minor injury units associated with their acute hospital or attached to a community hospital(s).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020616%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423771"}},{"id":"423770","reference":"AQW 20615/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-15","answerBy":"2025-01-30","answered":"2025-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to increase residential nursing provision for younger adults.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need.\n\nHSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide residential or nursing home placements for younger adults as required in accordance with assessed need. HSCTs have procedures in place to optimise capacity within available resources. HSCTs advise there are no immediate plans to increase the provision of residential nursing provision for younger adults. My Department is working from a strategic perspective to support adults in line with assessed need to live in their own homes in local communities, rather than in institutional facilities.\n\nMy Department is also currently leading on the reform of Adult Social Care through the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The Commissioning and Contracting workstream and the Maximising Capacity workstream will support best use of current respite/ short break provision and expansion of service provision within care home settings from a residential and nursing care perspective. My Department remains committed to ensuring young adults receive appropriate service provision in line with assessed need.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) are responsible for the provision of health and social care services in accordance with population and individual assessed need.
HSCTs utilise both statutory and independent sector providers to provide residential or nursing home placements for younger adults as required in accordance with assessed need. HSCTs have procedures in place to optimise capacity within available resources. HSCTs advise there are no immediate plans to increase the provision of residential nursing provision for younger adults. My Department is working from a strategic perspective to support adults in line with assessed need to live in their own homes in local communities, rather than in institutional facilities.
My Department is also currently leading on the reform of Adult Social Care through the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The Commissioning and Contracting workstream and the Maximising Capacity workstream will support best use of current respite/ short break provision and expansion of service provision within care home settings from a residential and nursing care perspective. My Department remains committed to ensuring young adults receive appropriate service provision in line with assessed need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020615%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423770"}},{"id":"423613","reference":"AQW 20515/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-14","answerBy":"2025-01-29","answered":"2025-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the plans for The Open at Royal Portrush Golf Club in relation to transport and roads closures; and (ii) any events his Department is planning to inform key stakeholders, including local businesses, to enable them to prepare in advance.","answerText":"The 2025 Open Golf championship at Royal Portrush is organised by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A), and as such they are responsible for all aspects of the event, including ensuring an agreed Traffic and Transport Plan is in place. I can confirm that Departmental officials have been working as part of a large multi-disciplinary team preparing for the delivery the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush.\n\nI am advised that the Traffic & Transport Plan is currently in the final stages of preparation and details of travel arrangements for the event and associated traffic restrictions will be publicised in due course.\n\nI understand a presentation on the event was made to Portrush Town Forum on the 20th January, an official drop-in event is planned for Portrush Town Hall on the 19th February from 12.00 to 18.00 and a webinar on the 25th February from 14.00 to 15.30, and my officials will be in attendance.","answerHtml":"The 2025 Open Golf championship at Royal Portrush is organised by the Royal and Ancient Golf Club (R&A), and as such they are responsible for all aspects of the event, including ensuring an agreed Traffic and Transport Plan is in place. I can confirm that Departmental officials have been working as part of a large multi-disciplinary team preparing for the delivery the 153rd Open at Royal Portrush.
I am advised that the Traffic & Transport Plan is currently in the final stages of preparation and details of travel arrangements for the event and associated traffic restrictions will be publicised in due course.
I understand a presentation on the event was made to Portrush Town Forum on the 20th January, an official drop-in event is planned for Portrush Town Hall on the 19th February from 12.00 to 18.00 and a webinar on the 25th February from 14.00 to 15.30, and my officials will be in attendance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020515%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423613","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423613"}},{"id":"423612","reference":"AQW 20514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-14","answerBy":"2025-01-29","answered":"2025-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any discussions with the Minister for the Economy in relation to the need for a veterinary school in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) the Ulster University, Coleraine.","answerText":"I can advise that there have been no discussions with the Minister for the Economy in relation to the need for a veterinary school in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) the Ulster University, Coleraine.","answerHtml":"I can advise that there have been no discussions with the Minister for the Economy in relation to the need for a veterinary school in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) the Ulster University, Coleraine.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423612","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423612"}},{"id":"423611","reference":"AQW 20513/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-14","answerBy":"2025-01-29","answered":"2025-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) the safe access zone at Causeway Hospital; and (ii) whether the zone should be extended as per the legislation.","answerText":"My Department’s assessment of all Safe Access Zones operational in Northern Ireland is set out in the first annual report published in December 2024, as required under Section 8 of the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act Northern Ireland 2023.\n\nBased on the evidence presented from Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and the PSNI and feedback that the Department has received since the introduction of the Safe Access Zones on 29 September 2023, it is the Department’s opinion that, on balance, each of the eight current Safe Access Zones has been effective in protecting the safety and dignity of protected persons.\n\nThe Department is aware that there have been eight recorded breaches of the Safe Access Zone at Causeway Hospital since its introduction and acknowledges that the ongoing continued protest presence may cause distress to members of the public passing by or attending the hospital. However, the intention of the legislation was not to remove the right to protest but rather to protect women and staff specifically from harassment, alarm or distress when attending a clinic for abortion services within the immediate vicinity of these premises. My Department is content that the Safe Access Zone is effective in doing this.\n\nThe Department does not have a role in extending Safe Access Zones. If an operator (i.e. a HSC Trust) considers that a Safe Access Zone, as established, is not providing safe access to the premises for protected persons, the operator can give notice to my Department that it wishes to extend the Safe Access Zone by a specified distance up to a maximum of 250 metres. Operators must give due consideration to proportionality when determining whether to extend a Safe Access Zone and should engage with the PSNI as part of the determination process.\n\nMy Department is content that the Northern HSC Trust have fully considered and examined the options available to it including extending the Safe Access Zone to 250m and the Department is content that Northern Trust will continue to keep this under review.","answerHtml":"My Department’s assessment of all Safe Access Zones operational in Northern Ireland is set out in the first annual report published in December 2024, as required under Section 8 of the Abortion Services (Safe Access Zones) Act Northern Ireland 2023.
Based on the evidence presented from Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and the PSNI and feedback that the Department has received since the introduction of the Safe Access Zones on 29 September 2023, it is the Department’s opinion that, on balance, each of the eight current Safe Access Zones has been effective in protecting the safety and dignity of protected persons.
The Department is aware that there have been eight recorded breaches of the Safe Access Zone at Causeway Hospital since its introduction and acknowledges that the ongoing continued protest presence may cause distress to members of the public passing by or attending the hospital. However, the intention of the legislation was not to remove the right to protest but rather to protect women and staff specifically from harassment, alarm or distress when attending a clinic for abortion services within the immediate vicinity of these premises. My Department is content that the Safe Access Zone is effective in doing this.
The Department does not have a role in extending Safe Access Zones. If an operator (i.e. a HSC Trust) considers that a Safe Access Zone, as established, is not providing safe access to the premises for protected persons, the operator can give notice to my Department that it wishes to extend the Safe Access Zone by a specified distance up to a maximum of 250 metres. Operators must give due consideration to proportionality when determining whether to extend a Safe Access Zone and should engage with the PSNI as part of the determination process.
My Department is content that the Northern HSC Trust have fully considered and examined the options available to it including extending the Safe Access Zone to 250m and the Department is content that Northern Trust will continue to keep this under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020513%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423611"}},{"id":"423610","reference":"AQW 20512/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-14","answerBy":"2025-01-29","answered":"2025-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how he is supporting Ulster University to maintain the Riverside Theatre at the Coleraine campus.","answerText":"Ulster University has not engaged with my Department in relation to support for the Riverside Theatre at the Coleraine campus.\n\nHowever, my Department maintains an ongoing dialogue with the University and is open to discussion of any issue affecting the institution and its campuses.","answerHtml":"Ulster University has not engaged with my Department in relation to support for the Riverside Theatre at the Coleraine campus.
However, my Department maintains an ongoing dialogue with the University and is open to discussion of any issue affecting the institution and its campuses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020512%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423610","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423610"}},{"id":"423609","reference":"AQW 20511/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-14","answerBy":"2025-01-29","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of the impact on the arts sector in Coleraine and the wider North Coast area if the Riverside Theatre in Coleraine is closed by Ulster University.","answerText":"I have not been involved in any discussions about the Riverside Theatre but, much like the closure of any local venue, it is my assessment that, should it materialise, the impacts will be felt across the local area and beyond.\n\nThere is work to be done to better understand the way funding is distributed across Northern Ireland. This will include an informed assessment of the social and economic impact of the arts. My officials are currently examining this as part of the development of a new Arts Policy.","answerHtml":"I have not been involved in any discussions about the Riverside Theatre but, much like the closure of any local venue, it is my assessment that, should it materialise, the impacts will be felt across the local area and beyond.
There is work to be done to better understand the way funding is distributed across Northern Ireland. This will include an informed assessment of the social and economic impact of the arts. My officials are currently examining this as part of the development of a new Arts Policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020511%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423609","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423609"}},{"id":"423439","reference":"AQW 20422/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-13","answerBy":"2025-01-28","answered":"2025-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of (i) legislation that extends post-19 special educational needs provision to 25 years old; and (ii) moving responsibility and associated funding from his Department to the Department of Education.","answerText":"As indicated previously, improving support for people with special educational needs is a priority in my Department’s business plan and the Executive’s draft Programme for Government.\n\nMy officials are currently reviewing the relevant legislation, as well as the existing training and skills provision, to consider how best we can make improvements. This work is continuing, and I expect cross-Departmental collaboration, rather than transferring functions, will be essential to deliver improvements.\n\nI expect to receive advice from my officials in the Spring, at which point I will outline my intended next steps.","answerHtml":"As indicated previously, improving support for people with special educational needs is a priority in my Department’s business plan and the Executive’s draft Programme for Government.
My officials are currently reviewing the relevant legislation, as well as the existing training and skills provision, to consider how best we can make improvements. This work is continuing, and I expect cross-Departmental collaboration, rather than transferring functions, will be essential to deliver improvements.
I expect to receive advice from my officials in the Spring, at which point I will outline my intended next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020422%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423439"}},{"id":"423438","reference":"AQW 20421/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-13","answerBy":"2025-01-28","answered":"2025-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) legislation that extends post-19 special educational needs provision to 25 years old; and (ii) moving responsibility and associated funding from his Department to the Department of Education.","answerText":"Transitions is recognised as a long-standing challenge in NI and work is underway across Departments to improve support for children with disabilities and/or Special Education Needs. A regional protocol for HSC Trusts has been finalised to standardise the transitions process, which will be piloted in the coming months. My officials are fully engaged with colleagues across government to review and improve the SEN transitions process, including consideration for legislative change.\n\nThe Chronically Sick and Disabled Person (Northern Ireland) Act 1978 provides the legislative basis to provide health and social care services for disabled and sick children as they transition into an adult service. However, it is recognised that this is only applicable to the health and social care needs that are known to Trusts and have an assessed need. There is currently no legislation in Northern Ireland to provide special educational needs pupils with an Education and Health Care plan after the age of 19.\n\nThe Department of Health has responsibility for the health & social care needs of children and adults. A change to the transition age to 25 will still require these needs to be met by Health & Social Care Trusts. Therefore, it is unlikely that responsibility and associated funding will transfer to another NI Executive department.\n\nI do support the need for exploratory work to assess the benefits of legislative change in Northern Ireland and my officials will work closely with the Department for Economy on this matter.","answerHtml":"Transitions is recognised as a long-standing challenge in NI and work is underway across Departments to improve support for children with disabilities and/or Special Education Needs. A regional protocol for HSC Trusts has been finalised to standardise the transitions process, which will be piloted in the coming months. My officials are fully engaged with colleagues across government to review and improve the SEN transitions process, including consideration for legislative change.
The Chronically Sick and Disabled Person (Northern Ireland) Act 1978 provides the legislative basis to provide health and social care services for disabled and sick children as they transition into an adult service. However, it is recognised that this is only applicable to the health and social care needs that are known to Trusts and have an assessed need. There is currently no legislation in Northern Ireland to provide special educational needs pupils with an Education and Health Care plan after the age of 19.
The Department of Health has responsibility for the health & social care needs of children and adults. A change to the transition age to 25 will still require these needs to be met by Health & Social Care Trusts. Therefore, it is unlikely that responsibility and associated funding will transfer to another NI Executive department.
I do support the need for exploratory work to assess the benefits of legislative change in Northern Ireland and my officials will work closely with the Department for Economy on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020421%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423438"}},{"id":"423437","reference":"AQW 20420/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-13","answerBy":"2025-01-28","answered":"2025-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the proposal to transfer Emergency General Surgery (EGS) from Causeway Hospital to Antrim Area Hospital, given the challenges presenting in Emergency Departments; and (ii) how he is reassuring patients that require EGS in this context.","answerText":"The Northern HSC Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024.\n\nThe Trust is currently preparing a consultation outcomes report which will be submitted to the Department of Health in due course, and will consider all likely impacts of proposals.\n\nI will consider any recommendation made by the NHSCT at this time.","answerHtml":"The Northern HSC Trust held a public consultation on proposals to reconfigure general surgery services between 23 August and 29 November 2024.
The Trust is currently preparing a consultation outcomes report which will be submitted to the Department of Health in due course, and will consider all likely impacts of proposals.
I will consider any recommendation made by the NHSCT at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020420%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423437"}},{"id":"423436","reference":"AQW 20419/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-13","answerBy":"2025-01-28","answered":"2025-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of patients that have been diagnosed with conditions related to the Covid-19 vaccine; and (ii) how he is supporting those with conditions related to the Covid-19 vaccine.","answerText":"Specific information in relation to the number of patients that have been diagnosed with conditions related to the Covid-19 vaccine is not gathered.\n\nAll vaccines and medicines have some side effects although not everybody gets them, and the vast majority of side effects are normally mild and short lasting. Unfortunately, in some rare cases, an individual may be injured due to receiving a vaccine.\n\nFor anyone who has been diagnosed or believes they have a condition as a result of receiving a Covid-19 vaccine, I would encourage them to contact their GP, who will be best placed to consider their patients clinical needs and tailor the most appropriate pathway for their specific condition.\n\nIn addition, the UK wide Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS) allows people who have been severely disabled as a result of vaccination to apply for a one-off tax-free payment of £120,000. Applications for the payment can also be made on behalf of someone who has died after becoming severely disabled because of certain vaccinations.","answerHtml":"Specific information in relation to the number of patients that have been diagnosed with conditions related to the Covid-19 vaccine is not gathered.
All vaccines and medicines have some side effects although not everybody gets them, and the vast majority of side effects are normally mild and short lasting. Unfortunately, in some rare cases, an individual may be injured due to receiving a vaccine.
For anyone who has been diagnosed or believes they have a condition as a result of receiving a Covid-19 vaccine, I would encourage them to contact their GP, who will be best placed to consider their patients clinical needs and tailor the most appropriate pathway for their specific condition.
In addition, the UK wide Vaccine Damage Payment Scheme (VDPS) allows people who have been severely disabled as a result of vaccination to apply for a one-off tax-free payment of £120,000. Applications for the payment can also be made on behalf of someone who has died after becoming severely disabled because of certain vaccinations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020419%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423436","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423436"}},{"id":"423435","reference":"AQW 20418/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-13","answerBy":"2025-01-28","answered":"2025-01-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how he is supporting and funding Ulster University to develop a veterinary school at the Coleraine campus.","answerText":"Policy concerning the supply of locally trained graduates to support the veterinary profession is outside the remit of my Department.\n\nAs autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within the existing student number cap and funding allocations.\n\nUlster University has not recently asked for any support or funding from the Department regarding the development of a veterinary school at the Coleraine campus.\n\nMy Department is open to working in partnership with others to consider the implications of such an initiative should a relevant proposal be forthcoming.","answerHtml":"Policy concerning the supply of locally trained graduates to support the veterinary profession is outside the remit of my Department.
As autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within the existing student number cap and funding allocations.
Ulster University has not recently asked for any support or funding from the Department regarding the development of a veterinary school at the Coleraine campus.
My Department is open to working in partnership with others to consider the implications of such an initiative should a relevant proposal be forthcoming.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020418%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423435","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423435"}},{"id":"423064","reference":"AQW 20251/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any recent discussions with universities in relation to the progression of a business case for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The supply of veterinary surgeons is the policy responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and not within the remit of my Department.\n\nI have not had any recent discussions with the universities regarding a business case for a veterinary school here.\n\nAs autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.","answerHtml":"The supply of veterinary surgeons is the policy responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and not within the remit of my Department.
I have not had any recent discussions with the universities regarding a business case for a veterinary school here.
As autonomous bodies, the universities have the discretion to offer any course, including veterinary subjects, from within existing student numbers and funding allocations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020251%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423064"}},{"id":"423063","reference":"AQW 20250/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether any of the third-level institutions have sought (i) discussion with; and (ii) support from his Department to progress a business case for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I met the Vice-Chancellor of the Ulster University on 2 May 2024 to discuss the university’s ambitions and intentions, including its plans for introducing veterinary related courses, and its considerations relating to a veterinary school. No further discussions have been sought by the third-level institutions on this matter.\n\nIn terms of support, decisions on which courses to offer are for the universities themselves, in conjunction with the Department for the Economy, but my Department is happy to engage with the universities on relevant aspects related to DAERA’s responsibilities as needed.","answerHtml":"I met the Vice-Chancellor of the Ulster University on 2 May 2024 to discuss the university’s ambitions and intentions, including its plans for introducing veterinary related courses, and its considerations relating to a veterinary school. No further discussions have been sought by the third-level institutions on this matter.
In terms of support, decisions on which courses to offer are for the universities themselves, in conjunction with the Department for the Economy, but my Department is happy to engage with the universities on relevant aspects related to DAERA’s responsibilities as needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020250%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423063","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423063"}},{"id":"423062","reference":"AQW 20249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the public services involved when a child is home-schooled.","answerText":"The legislative position in Northern Ireland is that the responsibility for a child’s education rests with the child’s parents. Parents may choose to educate their children at home rather than register them at a school, however if they choose to home educate their child they take on full responsibility for ensuring their child receives an efficient full-time education suitable to the child’s needs. Parents who choose to educate their children outside of the publicly funded education system do not receive financial assistance towards the education they provide.\n\nParents who choose to home educate their children, or those considering deregistering their child for elective home education, may contact the Education Authority (EA) for advice or support. Parents who are educating a child at home who has special educational needs or a disability may ask the EA to carry out a statutory assessment or reassessment of their child’s special educational needs and this will be considered in the same way, and within the same statutory timescales as for a child attending a school. Home educating parents are also welcome to attend any training programmes delivered by the EA for parents to assist them in understanding and supporting their child’s special educational learning needs.\n\nShould a concern arise with a child’s education, the EA as a public sector organisation will engage with the family regarding the educational concern that has been raised. Any safeguarding concerns are dealt with by social services.\n\nThe EA published guidance on Elective Home Education in 2020 which outlines the current legislative position, the roles and responsibilities of parents, schools and the EA and details the process of engagement with parents/carers when concerns are raised. It also provides information and signposting for home educating parents on the support available to them. This guidance is available on the EA website:\n\nhttps://www.eani.org.uk/services/elective-home-education","answerHtml":"The legislative position in Northern Ireland is that the responsibility for a child’s education rests with the child’s parents. Parents may choose to educate their children at home rather than register them at a school, however if they choose to home educate their child they take on full responsibility for ensuring their child receives an efficient full-time education suitable to the child’s needs. Parents who choose to educate their children outside of the publicly funded education system do not receive financial assistance towards the education they provide.
Parents who choose to home educate their children, or those considering deregistering their child for elective home education, may contact the Education Authority (EA) for advice or support. Parents who are educating a child at home who has special educational needs or a disability may ask the EA to carry out a statutory assessment or reassessment of their child’s special educational needs and this will be considered in the same way, and within the same statutory timescales as for a child attending a school. Home educating parents are also welcome to attend any training programmes delivered by the EA for parents to assist them in understanding and supporting their child’s special educational learning needs.
Should a concern arise with a child’s education, the EA as a public sector organisation will engage with the family regarding the educational concern that has been raised. Any safeguarding concerns are dealt with by social services.
The EA published guidance on Elective Home Education in 2020 which outlines the current legislative position, the roles and responsibilities of parents, schools and the EA and details the process of engagement with parents/carers when concerns are raised. It also provides information and signposting for home educating parents on the support available to them. This guidance is available on the EA website:
https://www.eani.org.uk/services/elective-home-education
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423062","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423062"}},{"id":"423061","reference":"AQW 20248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the current legislation which imposes duties on drivers who injure certain animals, for example dogs, on roads or public places, but does not extend to private land; and (ii) whether causing unnecessary suffering to an animal, as an offence, covers injury through driving on private land.","answerText":"The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 places responsibilities on drivers on the occurrence of accidents causing injury to certain animals.\n\nThe Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 (the Act) sets out the offence of unnecessary suffering to animals, caused by any action or inaction which causes physical or mental suffering to an animal. The suffering is deemed to be unnecessary if it could have been reasonably avoided, terminated or reduced.\n\nThe Act does not define specific actions or places which would result in an offence being committed. It is up to the investigating body to determine whether an offence has occurred.\n\nMy Department is not responsible for either the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 or the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Any assessments of these policies would be a matter for the relevant Department.","answerHtml":"The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 places responsibilities on drivers on the occurrence of accidents causing injury to certain animals.
The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 (the Act) sets out the offence of unnecessary suffering to animals, caused by any action or inaction which causes physical or mental suffering to an animal. The suffering is deemed to be unnecessary if it could have been reasonably avoided, terminated or reduced.
The Act does not define specific actions or places which would result in an offence being committed. It is up to the investigating body to determine whether an offence has occurred.
My Department is not responsible for either the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 or the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Any assessments of these policies would be a matter for the relevant Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020248%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423061","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423061"}},{"id":"423060","reference":"AQW 20247/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-24","answered":"2025-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) to detail the limitations of securing a manslaughter conviction where the cause of death was dangerous driving which occurred on private land; and (ii) whether she has any plans to extend death by dangerous driving offence to include private property.","answerText":"Manslaughter falls into the two broad categories of involuntary and voluntary.\n\nInvoluntary manslaughter is unlawful killing without the intent to kill or cause serious harm. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when all the elements for murder are present, including an intention to kill or cause serious harm, but the crime is reduced to manslaughter by reason of loss of control or diminished responsibility.\n\nIf a death occurs which fulfils the criteria for either of these categories, then a manslaughter conviction may be possible. The outcome of any charge is a matter for the courts, taking into consideration all the facts and evidence presented in the case.\n\nThe offence of causing death by dangerous driving is contained within the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995, for which my Department is not responsible. Any plans to extend the offence would fall outside my remit.","answerHtml":"Manslaughter falls into the two broad categories of involuntary and voluntary.
Involuntary manslaughter is unlawful killing without the intent to kill or cause serious harm. Voluntary manslaughter occurs when all the elements for murder are present, including an intention to kill or cause serious harm, but the crime is reduced to manslaughter by reason of loss of control or diminished responsibility.
If a death occurs which fulfils the criteria for either of these categories, then a manslaughter conviction may be possible. The outcome of any charge is a matter for the courts, taking into consideration all the facts and evidence presented in the case.
The offence of causing death by dangerous driving is contained within the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995, for which my Department is not responsible. Any plans to extend the offence would fall outside my remit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=423060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=423060"}},{"id":"424480","reference":"AQO 1405/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-21","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline any guidance his Department has issued to schools in relation to the influence of misogynistic social media content on boys and young men.","answerText":"Research published by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) highlights the promotion of misogynistic ideas online as an area of concern. The Board recently launched the Online Safety hub, delivered as part of the Executive’s “Keeping Children and Young People Safe: An Online Safety Strategy” and I can confirm that my Department funds the Safer Schools Northern Ireland app which provides tailored support and information about safeguarding issues and online harms, including extremist content and social media influencers. My Department also issues guidance to schools in relation to online safety and safeguarding more generally; Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools.\n\nMy Department participates in a range of cross-departmental strategies such as the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. My officials continue to engage and work with the Executive Office, the Department of Justice and Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s Council (CCEA) to take forward work in relation to supporting these strategies.\n\nOur curriculum addresses issues such as violence against women and girls, understanding and respecting consent, dealing with misogyny and addressing coercive control. This provides opportunities for pupils to discuss issues including misogyny, consent and attitudes to women.\n\nCCEA’s RSE Hub ensures that teachers can access resources to help address sensitive issues with their pupils, such as violence against women and girls, effects of social media on relationships and self-esteem and male privilege and misogyny.","answerHtml":"Research published by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) highlights the promotion of misogynistic ideas online as an area of concern. The Board recently launched the Online Safety hub, delivered as part of the Executive’s “Keeping Children and Young People Safe: An Online Safety Strategy” and I can confirm that my Department funds the Safer Schools Northern Ireland app which provides tailored support and information about safeguarding issues and online harms, including extremist content and social media influencers. My Department also issues guidance to schools in relation to online safety and safeguarding more generally; Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools.
My Department participates in a range of cross-departmental strategies such as the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. My officials continue to engage and work with the Executive Office, the Department of Justice and Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s Council (CCEA) to take forward work in relation to supporting these strategies.
Our curriculum addresses issues such as violence against women and girls, understanding and respecting consent, dealing with misogyny and addressing coercive control. This provides opportunities for pupils to discuss issues including misogyny, consent and attitudes to women.
CCEA’s RSE Hub ensures that teachers can access resources to help address sensitive issues with their pupils, such as violence against women and girls, effects of social media on relationships and self-esteem and male privilege and misogyny.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201405%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424480"}},{"id":"424482","reference":"AQO 1405/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-09","answerBy":"2025-01-21","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline any guidance his Department has issued to schools in relation to the influence of misogynistic social media content on boys and young men.","answerText":"Research published by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) highlights the promotion of misogynistic ideas online as an area of concern. The Board recently launched the Online Safety hub, delivered as part of the Executive’s “Keeping Children and Young People Safe: An Online Safety Strategy” and I can confirm that my Department funds the Safer Schools Northern Ireland app which provides tailored support and information about safeguarding issues and online harms, including extremist content and social media influencers. My Department also issues guidance to schools in relation to online safety and safeguarding more generally; Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools.\n\nMy Department participates in a range of cross-departmental strategies such as the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. My officials continue to engage and work with the Executive Office, the Department of Justice and Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s Council (CCEA) to take forward work in relation to supporting these strategies.\n\nOur curriculum addresses issues such as violence against women and girls, understanding and respecting consent, dealing with misogyny and addressing coercive control. This provides opportunities for pupils to discuss issues including misogyny, consent and attitudes to women.\n\nCCEA’s RSE Hub ensures that teachers can access resources to help address sensitive issues with their pupils, such as violence against women and girls, effects of social media on relationships and self-esteem and male privilege and misogyny.","answerHtml":"Research published by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) highlights the promotion of misogynistic ideas online as an area of concern. The Board recently launched the Online Safety hub, delivered as part of the Executive’s “Keeping Children and Young People Safe: An Online Safety Strategy” and I can confirm that my Department funds the Safer Schools Northern Ireland app which provides tailored support and information about safeguarding issues and online harms, including extremist content and social media influencers. My Department also issues guidance to schools in relation to online safety and safeguarding more generally; Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools.
My Department participates in a range of cross-departmental strategies such as the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy. My officials continue to engage and work with the Executive Office, the Department of Justice and Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s Council (CCEA) to take forward work in relation to supporting these strategies.
Our curriculum addresses issues such as violence against women and girls, understanding and respecting consent, dealing with misogyny and addressing coercive control. This provides opportunities for pupils to discuss issues including misogyny, consent and attitudes to women.
CCEA’s RSE Hub ensures that teachers can access resources to help address sensitive issues with their pupils, such as violence against women and girls, effects of social media on relationships and self-esteem and male privilege and misogyny.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201405%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424482"}},{"id":"422790","reference":"AQW 20056/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-07","answerBy":"2025-01-15","answered":"2025-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the process for ensuring roads are gritted prior to dangerous driving conditions.","answerText":"The current winter service policy and procedures operated by the Department utilises the widely accepted practice of targeting limited resources for this service on the higher trafficked main through routes and can be viewed on the Departments website below.\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/winter-service-rsppg-e022\n\nThe application of this policy means that 28% of the total road network, which carries around 80% of traffic, is salted. It must, however, be emphasised that the service provided cannot eliminate the risks and even on roads that are gritted, ice free conditions cannot be guaranteed.\n\nAs road users we all need to be mindful of the road conditions and adjust the way we drive, ride or cycle and during particularly wintry conditions people should only travel if absolutely necessary.","answerHtml":"The current winter service policy and procedures operated by the Department utilises the widely accepted practice of targeting limited resources for this service on the higher trafficked main through routes and can be viewed on the Departments website below.
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/winter-service-rsppg-e022
The application of this policy means that 28% of the total road network, which carries around 80% of traffic, is salted. It must, however, be emphasised that the service provided cannot eliminate the risks and even on roads that are gritted, ice free conditions cannot be guaranteed.
As road users we all need to be mindful of the road conditions and adjust the way we drive, ride or cycle and during particularly wintry conditions people should only travel if absolutely necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020056%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422790","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422790"}},{"id":"422789","reference":"AQW 20055/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-07","answerBy":"2025-01-22","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of whether Northern Ireland is an ageing population; and (ii) whether this will underpin the design and delivery of health and social care services.","answerText":"(i) It is widely recognised, and reported, that Northern Ireland has a growing and ageing population, and with this comes the expectancy of people living longer with multiple conditions. This adds to the complexity of needs that our services must manage, and places additional demands and pressures on the system.\n\nConsequently, there is a fundamental need to change how we deliver services if we are to meet these demands and pressures.\n\n(ii) It is essential to the successful delivery of health and social care services that detailed consideration is given to the demographics of those who will require care. The design and delivery of future services must, and will, take into account the expected needs of the population now, and in the future.\n\nThe development of the Integrated Care System NI will support us in doing this, enabling collaborative working across the HSC sector and beyond, placing a focus on people keeping well in the first instance, providing timely, co-ordinated care when they are not, and supporting people to self-care when appropriate.\n\nThis approach will help support us to ensure that we are maximizing the resource we have available to deliver the best outcomes for our population.","answerHtml":"(i) It is widely recognised, and reported, that Northern Ireland has a growing and ageing population, and with this comes the expectancy of people living longer with multiple conditions. This adds to the complexity of needs that our services must manage, and places additional demands and pressures on the system.
Consequently, there is a fundamental need to change how we deliver services if we are to meet these demands and pressures.
(ii) It is essential to the successful delivery of health and social care services that detailed consideration is given to the demographics of those who will require care. The design and delivery of future services must, and will, take into account the expected needs of the population now, and in the future.
The development of the Integrated Care System NI will support us in doing this, enabling collaborative working across the HSC sector and beyond, placing a focus on people keeping well in the first instance, providing timely, co-ordinated care when they are not, and supporting people to self-care when appropriate.
This approach will help support us to ensure that we are maximizing the resource we have available to deliver the best outcomes for our population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020055%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422789"}},{"id":"422788","reference":"AQW 20054/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-07","answerBy":"2025-01-22","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the health and safety of patients waiting for long periods in Emergency Departments for admittance to hospital and treatment.","answerText":"My Department recognises that patients are experiencing significant delays for admission to hospital beds across all of our acute hospital sites leading to crowding in Emergency Departments and delayed ambulance off loads with a subsequent delay for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) in responding to emergency 999 calls. Although the issues are system-wide, pressures do culminate in Emergency Departments at the front door of the hospital. We are doing everything we can to reduce this pressure. We are continuously working to improve our range of community services, unscheduled care and same day emergency care services to avoid hospital admission and improve patient flow where possible.\n\nUnfortunately, the demand for hospital services has resulted in some of our patients being cared for in additional care spaces such as beds, chairs and trollies in non-clinical areas, including corridors within ward and department areas. Whilst this is not the standard we want in providing services, our priority remains to ensure the best possible care and treatment to patients. Our staff are working in difficult circumstances to protect the safety and dignity of patients\n\nAll additional care spaces being used have been risk assessed by Trust staff with the aim to use these areas for the shortest period of time as possible. Senior staff within the Trusts monitor the use and de-escalation of any additional beds and care spaces on a daily basis.\n\nAs patient safety remains my Department and Trusts’ priority, careful consideration is made in identification of patients who are deemed appropriate for allocation to an additional bed/care space, utilising an agreed set of exclusion criteria. A patient who is placed in an additional care space receives both medical and nursing care dictated by their clinical need to the same safety standard of all patients placed within a designated ward bed space. Trusts will increase the number of staffs on duty for these respective areas so that these patients have access to appropriate care, although mitigations against deficits in the privacy and dignity of patients are much more challenging and, regrettably, at times insufficient to address privacy and dignity concerns.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises that patients are experiencing significant delays for admission to hospital beds across all of our acute hospital sites leading to crowding in Emergency Departments and delayed ambulance off loads with a subsequent delay for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) in responding to emergency 999 calls. Although the issues are system-wide, pressures do culminate in Emergency Departments at the front door of the hospital. We are doing everything we can to reduce this pressure. We are continuously working to improve our range of community services, unscheduled care and same day emergency care services to avoid hospital admission and improve patient flow where possible.
Unfortunately, the demand for hospital services has resulted in some of our patients being cared for in additional care spaces such as beds, chairs and trollies in non-clinical areas, including corridors within ward and department areas. Whilst this is not the standard we want in providing services, our priority remains to ensure the best possible care and treatment to patients. Our staff are working in difficult circumstances to protect the safety and dignity of patients
All additional care spaces being used have been risk assessed by Trust staff with the aim to use these areas for the shortest period of time as possible. Senior staff within the Trusts monitor the use and de-escalation of any additional beds and care spaces on a daily basis.
As patient safety remains my Department and Trusts’ priority, careful consideration is made in identification of patients who are deemed appropriate for allocation to an additional bed/care space, utilising an agreed set of exclusion criteria. A patient who is placed in an additional care space receives both medical and nursing care dictated by their clinical need to the same safety standard of all patients placed within a designated ward bed space. Trusts will increase the number of staffs on duty for these respective areas so that these patients have access to appropriate care, although mitigations against deficits in the privacy and dignity of patients are much more challenging and, regrettably, at times insufficient to address privacy and dignity concerns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020054%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422788"}},{"id":"422787","reference":"AQW 20053/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-07","answerBy":"2025-01-22","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any discussions he has had with the Chief Constable in relation to the regular presence of officers in Emergency Departments assisting vulnerable patients; and (ii) any appropriate Health and Social Care resource that could be deployed to support these patients after check-in to free up PSNI resource.","answerText":"I am aware that currently police officers often accompany individuals in mental health crisis to emergency departments and can spend prolonged periods of time there. The Right Care Right Person (RCRP) model once implemented will aim to address this issue. I have had a number of discussions in recent months with both the Chief Constable and senior PSNI representatives about the introduction of RCRP in Northern Ireland, in order to ensure close and effective cooperation between health and policing as the implementation is progressed.\n\nAn RCRP Strategic Oversight Group, chaired jointly by DoH and DoJ senior officials, has been established to ensure that the approach to RCRP implementation is planned and developed through cross-agency partnerships. The Group met for the first time on 29 October 2024. The focus of the Oversight Group is to identify and address the required operational change, while recognising and respecting the operational independence of PSNI, and ensuring effective future partnership working between all relevant statutory partners in the delivery of health and social care, including mental health care. This will include how best to address the issue of police time spent supporting vulnerable patients at emergency departments.","answerHtml":"I am aware that currently police officers often accompany individuals in mental health crisis to emergency departments and can spend prolonged periods of time there. The Right Care Right Person (RCRP) model once implemented will aim to address this issue. I have had a number of discussions in recent months with both the Chief Constable and senior PSNI representatives about the introduction of RCRP in Northern Ireland, in order to ensure close and effective cooperation between health and policing as the implementation is progressed.
An RCRP Strategic Oversight Group, chaired jointly by DoH and DoJ senior officials, has been established to ensure that the approach to RCRP implementation is planned and developed through cross-agency partnerships. The Group met for the first time on 29 October 2024. The focus of the Oversight Group is to identify and address the required operational change, while recognising and respecting the operational independence of PSNI, and ensuring effective future partnership working between all relevant statutory partners in the delivery of health and social care, including mental health care. This will include how best to address the issue of police time spent supporting vulnerable patients at emergency departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020053%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422787"}},{"id":"422786","reference":"AQW 20052/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-07","answerBy":"2025-01-22","answered":"2025-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to improve accessibility for complete domiciliary care packages for those fit for discharge from hospital.","answerText":"The main reason that some people in hospital cannot be discharged home with a complete domiciliary care package is due to packages not being available in the area they live. There is some capacity in the whole system but we are finding that this capacity is not in the area where the need exists. The Health and Social Care trusts have given my department reassurance that where capacity exists in the required area that packages of care are being put in place. We also know that the trusts are working to review rotas and runs to try to maximize the available capacity.\n\nYou will remember when I wrote to you back in October I referenced that my department had funded a pilot which was then rolled out permanently for an Early Review Team in each of the five HSCT’s. These teams continue to generate domiciliary hours that are recycled back into the system. Some of the trusts have bolstered the team to cover a wider area. Some trusts have continued to increase their block purchased contracts through the Rapid Response route, this is where the trust pay an enhanced rate to the independent sector who ring-fence domiciliary hours specifically to assist with hospital discharges.\n\nThrough the Social Care Collaborative Forum, the Fair Work Forum and the work of the Project Steering Group for Home Care there is a recognition for the need to improve this service. Areas to be addressed include fair pay, staff training and opportunities for career progression for the homecare workforce to improve recruitment and retention.\n\nLooking to the near future (2025), the intention is to carry out a review of the regional homecare contract and begin the work to develop a new model for homecare that will better fit our requirements.","answerHtml":"The main reason that some people in hospital cannot be discharged home with a complete domiciliary care package is due to packages not being available in the area they live. There is some capacity in the whole system but we are finding that this capacity is not in the area where the need exists. The Health and Social Care trusts have given my department reassurance that where capacity exists in the required area that packages of care are being put in place. We also know that the trusts are working to review rotas and runs to try to maximize the available capacity.
You will remember when I wrote to you back in October I referenced that my department had funded a pilot which was then rolled out permanently for an Early Review Team in each of the five HSCT’s. These teams continue to generate domiciliary hours that are recycled back into the system. Some of the trusts have bolstered the team to cover a wider area. Some trusts have continued to increase their block purchased contracts through the Rapid Response route, this is where the trust pay an enhanced rate to the independent sector who ring-fence domiciliary hours specifically to assist with hospital discharges.
Through the Social Care Collaborative Forum, the Fair Work Forum and the work of the Project Steering Group for Home Care there is a recognition for the need to improve this service. Areas to be addressed include fair pay, staff training and opportunities for career progression for the homecare workforce to improve recruitment and retention.
Looking to the near future (2025), the intention is to carry out a review of the regional homecare contract and begin the work to develop a new model for homecare that will better fit our requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020052%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=422786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=422786"}},{"id":"424019","reference":"AQO 1354/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2025-01-06","answerBy":"2025-01-14","answered":"2025-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he has any plans to develop a new Active Ageing Strategy.","answerText":"I am currently considering the next steps in this important area, and I have asked officials to set out options for the way forward.\n\nI hope to make an announcement in the near future.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering the next steps in this important area, and I have asked officials to set out options for the way forward.
I hope to make an announcement in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201354%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=424019","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=424019"}},{"id":"420257","reference":"AQW 19209/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) whether she has any plans to publish the report by Judge Burgess on the fundamental review of criminal legal aid in Northern Ireland; (ii) the recommendations in the report; (iii) the recommendations she has accepted and agreed to take forward; and (iv) the recommendations she does not accept or will not fully implement.","answerText":"The Report of the Fundamental Review of Criminal Legal Aid was published on 2 December 2024 alongside a summary of the Department’s analysis and proposed approach to recommendations. Summaries of the other evidence which informed decisions on the Enabling Access to Justice Reform Programme was also published on 2 December.","answerHtml":"The Report of the Fundamental Review of Criminal Legal Aid was published on 2 December 2024 alongside a summary of the Department’s analysis and proposed approach to recommendations. Summaries of the other evidence which informed decisions on the Enabling Access to Justice Reform Programme was also published on 2 December.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019209%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420257"}},{"id":"420256","reference":"AQW 19208/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how she engaged with key stakeholders, including the Law Society and the Bar Council NI, before her Ministerial Statement Enabling Access to Justice: Reform of Legal Aid.","answerText":"The programme has been informed by widespread evidence gathering and detailed engagement with stakeholders who have had the opportunity to meet directly with officials and to respond to the call for evidence for the Foundational Review of Civil Legal Services and to meet and submit evidence to His Honour Judge Burgess who led the Fundamental Review of Criminal Legal Aid. That includes the Law Society and Bar Council with whom my Department enjoys regular contact, both on an ad hoc basis and through monthly stocktake meetings.\n\nI also had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Bar and the Law Society in advance of my statement to the Assembly. The Programme represents the totality of evidence gathered through that engagement process and other sources, but engagement will continue as I consult on the programme delivery plan and each of the proposals therein.","answerHtml":"The programme has been informed by widespread evidence gathering and detailed engagement with stakeholders who have had the opportunity to meet directly with officials and to respond to the call for evidence for the Foundational Review of Civil Legal Services and to meet and submit evidence to His Honour Judge Burgess who led the Fundamental Review of Criminal Legal Aid. That includes the Law Society and Bar Council with whom my Department enjoys regular contact, both on an ad hoc basis and through monthly stocktake meetings.
I also had the opportunity to meet with representatives of the Bar and the Law Society in advance of my statement to the Assembly. The Programme represents the totality of evidence gathered through that engagement process and other sources, but engagement will continue as I consult on the programme delivery plan and each of the proposals therein.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019208%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420256"}},{"id":"420255","reference":"AQW 19207/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment on access to justice if solicitors and barristers refuse to take forward criminal and civil legal aid cases, particularly in cases relating to domestic abuse.","answerText":"While I understand the concerns which have driven recent strike action by members of the professions, withdrawal of services causes delay and delay impacts most acutely on witnesses and the victims who are waiting to receive justice and protection. The strike action was also precipitous. The continuing ongoing investment in the system is considerable. The legal aid budget at the start of the financial year was the highest opening allocation in the history of the legal aid scheme. That follows a spend of £114m last year and I secured additional funding in the June and October monitoring rounds which means we are on track to meet that spend again this year. I have also announced a significant uplift in fees for advice and representation in criminal and civil and family cases. I would hope the professions would take cognisance of that investment and that there will be no further unnecessary adverse impact on the victims and witnesses waiting to receive justice.","answerHtml":"While I understand the concerns which have driven recent strike action by members of the professions, withdrawal of services causes delay and delay impacts most acutely on witnesses and the victims who are waiting to receive justice and protection. The strike action was also precipitous. The continuing ongoing investment in the system is considerable. The legal aid budget at the start of the financial year was the highest opening allocation in the history of the legal aid scheme. That follows a spend of £114m last year and I secured additional funding in the June and October monitoring rounds which means we are on track to meet that spend again this year. I have also announced a significant uplift in fees for advice and representation in criminal and civil and family cases. I would hope the professions would take cognisance of that investment and that there will be no further unnecessary adverse impact on the victims and witnesses waiting to receive justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019207%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420255"}},{"id":"420254","reference":"AQW 19206/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how the plans outlined in her Ministerial Statement Enabling Access to Justice: Reform of Legal Aid compare with other regions of the (i) UK; and (ii) Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"Proposals outlined in my Statement on Enabling Access to Justice Reform have been informed by extensive engagement and research including comparative analysis of systems and supports in place in other jurisdictions. Whilst the scope of proposed reform would not allow a detailed comparison of proposals to be provided in a written answer, reform proposals have sought to reflect learning from other UK jurisdictions and Republic of Ireland and, in particular, where operating models appear to provide greater choice, more effective delivery models for citizens, and greater transparency and assurance on value for money. Each proposal outlined in my Statement will be subject to detailed consultation which where appropriate will include comparative information on other jurisdictions.","answerHtml":"Proposals outlined in my Statement on Enabling Access to Justice Reform have been informed by extensive engagement and research including comparative analysis of systems and supports in place in other jurisdictions. Whilst the scope of proposed reform would not allow a detailed comparison of proposals to be provided in a written answer, reform proposals have sought to reflect learning from other UK jurisdictions and Republic of Ireland and, in particular, where operating models appear to provide greater choice, more effective delivery models for citizens, and greater transparency and assurance on value for money. Each proposal outlined in my Statement will be subject to detailed consultation which where appropriate will include comparative information on other jurisdictions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420254","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420254"}},{"id":"420253","reference":"AQW 19205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-03","answerBy":"2024-12-18","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how she is ensuring the independence of the legal system, further to the reforms announced on 2 December 2024 which propose reducing or removing independent functions.","answerText":"The reform programme I announced on 2 December 2024 seeks to ensure the continued provision of high-quality advice and representation and that arrangements are robust and provide sufficient assurance and transparency on quality and value for money. Proposals, therefore, seek to build on the strengths of the existing framework and will ensure the continued availability of independent challenge and appellate functions. All proposals will be subject to consultation to allow intended arrangements to be explored in detail.","answerHtml":"The reform programme I announced on 2 December 2024 seeks to ensure the continued provision of high-quality advice and representation and that arrangements are robust and provide sufficient assurance and transparency on quality and value for money. Proposals, therefore, seek to build on the strengths of the existing framework and will ensure the continued availability of independent challenge and appellate functions. All proposals will be subject to consultation to allow intended arrangements to be explored in detail.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420253","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420253"}},{"id":"420032","reference":"AQW 19118/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in relation to the planned legislation to ensure all children remain in education or training until they are 18 years old, for his assessment of whether this should include a requirement to extend post-19 special educational needs provision to 25 years old.","answerText":"Improving support for people with special educational needs is a priority in my Department’s business plan and the Executive’s draft Programme for Government. My officials are currently reviewing the relevant legislation, as well as the existing training and skills provision, to consider how best we can make improvements both in terms of services and legislation.","answerHtml":"Improving support for people with special educational needs is a priority in my Department’s business plan and the Executive’s draft Programme for Government. My officials are currently reviewing the relevant legislation, as well as the existing training and skills provision, to consider how best we can make improvements both in terms of services and legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019118%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420032"}},{"id":"420031","reference":"AQW 19117/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2025-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether he has any specific plans to additionally support women and their children in temporary accommodation due to domestic abuse.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Domestic Abuse Action Plan was launched on 10 December. It contains 16 actions including a commitment to review existing training for frontline staff and the development of new training courses ranging from basic awareness of domestic abuse to identification of, and response to, domestic abuse within the workplace, tenant’s homes, Housing Executive hostels and during interviews for customers. The plan aims to improve communication to ensure those experiencing domestic abuse are aware of the support available and how to access this.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Domestic Abuse Action Plan was launched on 10 December. It contains 16 actions including a commitment to review existing training for frontline staff and the development of new training courses ranging from basic awareness of domestic abuse to identification of, and response to, domestic abuse within the workplace, tenant’s homes, Housing Executive hostels and during interviews for customers. The plan aims to improve communication to ensure those experiencing domestic abuse are aware of the support available and how to access this.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the NIHE directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019117%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420031","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420031"}},{"id":"420030","reference":"AQW 19116/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail his plans to maximise the opportunities that will arise from The Open returning to Royal Portrush Golf Club in 2025.","answerText":"Tourism NI, on behalf of my Department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019, which was over £100 million of combined economic and media benefit.\n\nThe Open in 2025 is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors and will showcase the North as a destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come.\n\nAn industry engagement programme is being delivered in the lead up to the event, in partnership with local authorities. This will assist and advise traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present, including providing reasons for event visitors to extend their stay and explore the wider area, alongside the ongoing support for the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that deliver on the 'Embrace a Giant Spirit' brand.\n\nWorking in close collaboration with the R&A, the intention is to nurture workforce opportunities that will have a legacy beyond July 2025, through skills development and employment before, during and after the event, as well as volunteering across the event week. Discussions are progressing with Derry and Strabane Labour Market Partnership to ensure that opportunities are realised across the region.\n\nTourism NI will support the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign and e-learning platform. In addition, they will work with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the north to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.\n\nIn partnership with Tourism Ireland, Tourism NI will deliver a significant PR and marketing campaign locally, nationally and globally, in the lead up to, during and after the event. Aside from the world-class golf offering, other experiences across the north will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions and entertainment. In collaboration with Invest NI, a programme of activity will also be delivered to support the presentation of our unique and compelling inward investment proposition.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI, on behalf of my Department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019, which was over £100 million of combined economic and media benefit.
The Open in 2025 is expected to attract over 250,000 visitors and will showcase the North as a destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come.
An industry engagement programme is being delivered in the lead up to the event, in partnership with local authorities. This will assist and advise traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present, including providing reasons for event visitors to extend their stay and explore the wider area, alongside the ongoing support for the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that deliver on the 'Embrace a Giant Spirit' brand.
Working in close collaboration with the R&A, the intention is to nurture workforce opportunities that will have a legacy beyond July 2025, through skills development and employment before, during and after the event, as well as volunteering across the event week. Discussions are progressing with Derry and Strabane Labour Market Partnership to ensure that opportunities are realised across the region.
Tourism NI will support the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign and e-learning platform. In addition, they will work with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the north to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.
In partnership with Tourism Ireland, Tourism NI will deliver a significant PR and marketing campaign locally, nationally and globally, in the lead up to, during and after the event. Aside from the world-class golf offering, other experiences across the north will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions and entertainment. In collaboration with Invest NI, a programme of activity will also be delivered to support the presentation of our unique and compelling inward investment proposition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019116%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420030"}},{"id":"420029","reference":"AQW 19115/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any discussions he has had with the UK Government in relation to the General Product Safety Regulation being introduced by the European Commission, which has resulted in suppliers from Great Britain no longer supplying to Northern Ireland; and (ii) any support he is offering businesses in Northern Ireland relating to challenges of the Windsor Framework.","answerText":"Product safety is a reserved matter for the British Government with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) holding competence for the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR).\n\nMy officials have engaged with DBT to ensure that support is made available for businesses seeking to comply with GPSR requirements. DBT have published detailed guidance and offer direct support to queries addressed to OPSS.enquiries@businessandtrade.gov.uk.\n\nGuidance can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/general-product-safety-regulations-northern-ireland.\n\nMy Department’s partner agencies, InterTradeIreland and Invest NI, have been providing tailored support for businesses to navigate the new trading and regulatory environment. This support includes, a range of online resources and free tailored consultancy and support services. Further my Department and Invest NI are leading a Dual Market Forum with business representatives to help co-design materials and initiatives to promote the unique trading opportunities provided by the Windsor Framework.","answerHtml":"Product safety is a reserved matter for the British Government with the Department for Business and Trade (DBT) holding competence for the General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR).
My officials have engaged with DBT to ensure that support is made available for businesses seeking to comply with GPSR requirements. DBT have published detailed guidance and offer direct support to queries addressed to OPSS.enquiries@businessandtrade.gov.uk.
Guidance can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/general-product-safety-regulations-northern-ireland.
My Department’s partner agencies, InterTradeIreland and Invest NI, have been providing tailored support for businesses to navigate the new trading and regulatory environment. This support includes, a range of online resources and free tailored consultancy and support services. Further my Department and Invest NI are leading a Dual Market Forum with business representatives to help co-design materials and initiatives to promote the unique trading opportunities provided by the Windsor Framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019115%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420029"}},{"id":"420028","reference":"AQW 19114/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-12-02","answerBy":"2024-12-17","answered":"2024-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether he has any plans to introduce the Warm Home Discount Scheme in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Thank you for your correspondence dated 20 November 2024 asking have I any plans to introduce the Warm Homes Discount Scheme for the North of Ireland.\n\nYou will be aware of the British Warm Home Discount scheme, which is paid for by a charge levied on all domestic customers in Britain. The British and North of Ireland Energy markets differ in several ways, most notably size. The costs of implementing and administering a scheme in the North of Ireland equivalent to the British Scheme would be disproportionately high given our small market size and would lead to higher bills for many customers, including, potentially, those in, or close to, fuel poverty.\n\nThis would also introduce additional administrative costs for suppliers which could have unintended consequences for supplier tariffs and competition at retail level.\n\nWe do already have the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), which receives £8m of funding raised through electricity charges. In September 2024 I announced a further £2.5m funding package for NISEP which will allow energy efficiency measures to be installed in more low-income households.\n\nYou will be aware that the Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations which may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs. The Department for the Economy assists in tackling fuel poverty through setting energy efficiency policy that supports the reduction in household energy use and as a consequence household energy bills.\n\nMy officials are in regular dialogue with their colleagues in the Department for Communities to identify further interventions that may assist customers facing increases in energy costs. The Department for Communities will lead the Executive’s response, particularly in relation to vulnerable consumers.","answerHtml":"Thank you for your correspondence dated 20 November 2024 asking have I any plans to introduce the Warm Homes Discount Scheme for the North of Ireland.
You will be aware of the British Warm Home Discount scheme, which is paid for by a charge levied on all domestic customers in Britain. The British and North of Ireland Energy markets differ in several ways, most notably size. The costs of implementing and administering a scheme in the North of Ireland equivalent to the British Scheme would be disproportionately high given our small market size and would lead to higher bills for many customers, including, potentially, those in, or close to, fuel poverty.
This would also introduce additional administrative costs for suppliers which could have unintended consequences for supplier tariffs and competition at retail level.
We do already have the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP), which receives £8m of funding raised through electricity charges. In September 2024 I announced a further £2.5m funding package for NISEP which will allow energy efficiency measures to be installed in more low-income households.
You will be aware that the Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations which may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs. The Department for the Economy assists in tackling fuel poverty through setting energy efficiency policy that supports the reduction in household energy use and as a consequence household energy bills.
My officials are in regular dialogue with their colleagues in the Department for Communities to identify further interventions that may assist customers facing increases in energy costs. The Department for Communities will lead the Executive’s response, particularly in relation to vulnerable consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019114%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=420028","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=420028"}},{"id":"419786","reference":"AQW 19040/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":"2024-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the levels of antidepressants prescribed in Northern Ireland compared with other regions of the UK; and (ii) to detail how the use of talking therapies in Northern Ireland to treat depression and anxiety compares with other regions of the UK.","answerText":"As noted in the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, it is difficult to directly compare dispensing levels across the UK due to differences in prescribing practices. It also notes that it is not possible to infer the medical conditions for which patients are being treated on the basis of the medications dispensed to them. Many medications, including anti-depressants, are used to treat multiple conditions.\n\nMy Department and I remain committed to the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy (MHS) 2021-2031, which fully recognises the benefits of non-pharmaceutical supports, for example talking therapies, for individuals struggling with their mental health, including those impacted by depression and anxiety. However, full implementation of the action to expand therapy hubs will require additional recurrent funding.","answerHtml":"As noted in the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, it is difficult to directly compare dispensing levels across the UK due to differences in prescribing practices. It also notes that it is not possible to infer the medical conditions for which patients are being treated on the basis of the medications dispensed to them. Many medications, including anti-depressants, are used to treat multiple conditions.
My Department and I remain committed to the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy (MHS) 2021-2031, which fully recognises the benefits of non-pharmaceutical supports, for example talking therapies, for individuals struggling with their mental health, including those impacted by depression and anxiety. However, full implementation of the action to expand therapy hubs will require additional recurrent funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019040%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419786"}},{"id":"419785","reference":"AQW 19039/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to commission new research into mental health in Northern Ireland to aid the development of effective strategies.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019039%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419785"}},{"id":"419784","reference":"AQW 19038/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether his Department has assessed the impact of VAT burdens on small and medium-sized enterprises in Northern Ireland, particularly those reliant on cross-border trade.","answerText":"VAT remains an Excepted Matter for the British Government and responsibility for all issues on VAT is a matter for Treasury. However, I am aware of the particular challenges for hospitality businesses here given the lower rate of VAT for similar businesses in the South.","answerHtml":"VAT remains an Excepted Matter for the British Government and responsibility for all issues on VAT is a matter for Treasury. However, I am aware of the particular challenges for hospitality businesses here given the lower rate of VAT for similar businesses in the South.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019038%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419784","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419784"}},{"id":"419783","reference":"AQW 19037/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":"2024-12-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) any discussions he has had with the UK Government in relation to VAT for Northern Ireland businesses; and (ii) how he is advocating for better support.","answerText":"My Department has repeatedly raised issues relating to VAT with the British Treasury, in particular highlighting the negative impact of higher rates in the hospitality and tourism sectors here when compared with the South where a lower rate applies. This remains an Excepted matter and unfortunately the British Government has so far been unwilling make any changes to the VAT rate.\n\nI meet with British Government ministers on a regular basis and have pressed for a progressive tax system that both properly funds public services, and also supports economic development. I will continue to work with the Minister for the Economy as appropriate to make the case to the Treasury for a VAT regime which enables and supports our businesses to compete within the all-Ireland economy.\n\nTo better understand the costs faced by business, I have also asked my officials to scope out the potential to commission a sectoral study on the cost of doing business in the North.\n\nMy officials will continue to highlight the issues faced by local businesses in their regular meetings with Treasury counterparts.","answerHtml":"My Department has repeatedly raised issues relating to VAT with the British Treasury, in particular highlighting the negative impact of higher rates in the hospitality and tourism sectors here when compared with the South where a lower rate applies. This remains an Excepted matter and unfortunately the British Government has so far been unwilling make any changes to the VAT rate.
I meet with British Government ministers on a regular basis and have pressed for a progressive tax system that both properly funds public services, and also supports economic development. I will continue to work with the Minister for the Economy as appropriate to make the case to the Treasury for a VAT regime which enables and supports our businesses to compete within the all-Ireland economy.
To better understand the costs faced by business, I have also asked my officials to scope out the potential to commission a sectoral study on the cost of doing business in the North.
My officials will continue to highlight the issues faced by local businesses in their regular meetings with Treasury counterparts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019037%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419783"}},{"id":"419782","reference":"AQW 19036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-29","answerBy":"2024-12-16","answered":"2024-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any plans to review the assessment process of non-domestic rates.","answerText":"There are no plans to review the assessment process of non-domestic rates. Non-domestic rates are assessed on the basis of statutory provision, and critically valuation treatment and valuation caselaw which is broadly harmonised both here and England, Scotland and Wales.\n\nHowever, in April 2024, I announced a new non-domestic revaluation, Reval2026. This is an exercise to revalue all non-domestic properties for business rates, marking the fourth revaluation of this type in the last ten years.\n\nRegular revaluations are essential due to fluctuations in the property market caused by changes in economic conditions, market sentiment, and local developments.\n\nA revaluation serves to re-base property valuations, and the relativity between property types and locations to account for these changes, ensuring the distribution of the rate burden fairly reflects up to date, accurate market values. It is not a means of raising more revenue.\n\nReval2026 valuations are based on a valuation date of 1 April 2024.","answerHtml":"There are no plans to review the assessment process of non-domestic rates. Non-domestic rates are assessed on the basis of statutory provision, and critically valuation treatment and valuation caselaw which is broadly harmonised both here and England, Scotland and Wales.
However, in April 2024, I announced a new non-domestic revaluation, Reval2026. This is an exercise to revalue all non-domestic properties for business rates, marking the fourth revaluation of this type in the last ten years.
Regular revaluations are essential due to fluctuations in the property market caused by changes in economic conditions, market sentiment, and local developments.
A revaluation serves to re-base property valuations, and the relativity between property types and locations to account for these changes, ensuring the distribution of the rate burden fairly reflects up to date, accurate market values. It is not a means of raising more revenue.
Reval2026 valuations are based on a valuation date of 1 April 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419782","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419782"}},{"id":"419533","reference":"AQW 18968/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-13","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has any plans to fund the service expansion of the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust to meet the demands of poor mental health within the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Northern Ireland Prison Service.","answerText":"The Department fund the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust (PRRT) to provide clinical and support services to police officers, former police officers, and their families, prior to and after cessation of their service.\n\nIn addition, PRRT provide services to a range of other organisations from within the Justice family, including the NIPS, and recover their costs from those organisations.\n\nGiven the significant and ongoing financial pressures facing the Department,\n\nthere are currently no plans to fund PRRT for any expansion of services.","answerHtml":"The Department fund the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust (PRRT) to provide clinical and support services to police officers, former police officers, and their families, prior to and after cessation of their service.
In addition, PRRT provide services to a range of other organisations from within the Justice family, including the NIPS, and recover their costs from those organisations.
Given the significant and ongoing financial pressures facing the Department,
there are currently no plans to fund PRRT for any expansion of services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018968%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419533","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419533"}},{"id":"419532","reference":"AQW 18967/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-13","answered":"2025-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they are leading any review and learning opportunities from the Executive response related to the Covid-19 pandemic.","answerText":"We have learned lessons from the Pandemic and have started work to implement changes to ensure we are better prepared for a future pandemic. We continue to engage and respond to the requirements of the UK Covid Inquiry, including consideration and implementation of recommendations arising from the Module 1 report.\n\nIn response to a NI Audit Office Report (Overview of the Northern Ireland Executive’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic - Third Report), our department coordinated an exercise across all departments to identify individual departmental reviews on the response to the Covid-19 pandemic. A paper was shared with the NICS Board.\n\nOur department continues to share lessons learned through the work of the Civil Contingences Group (NI) and the Covid Inquiry Cross Departmental Covid-19 Modular Recommendations and Lessons Learned Steering Group. The Steering Group was established by our department in September 2024 to take forward consideration and implementation of Covid-19 Inquiry Modular recommendations, as well as embedding Lessons Learned from responding to the Inquiry across all departments.\n\nThe Executive discussed the Draft Response to Module 1 report on 19 December 2024, the response was agreed at the Executive meeting in early January 2025. The aim is to publish this in the next few weeks.","answerHtml":"We have learned lessons from the Pandemic and have started work to implement changes to ensure we are better prepared for a future pandemic. We continue to engage and respond to the requirements of the UK Covid Inquiry, including consideration and implementation of recommendations arising from the Module 1 report.
In response to a NI Audit Office Report (Overview of the Northern Ireland Executive’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic - Third Report), our department coordinated an exercise across all departments to identify individual departmental reviews on the response to the Covid-19 pandemic. A paper was shared with the NICS Board.
Our department continues to share lessons learned through the work of the Civil Contingences Group (NI) and the Covid Inquiry Cross Departmental Covid-19 Modular Recommendations and Lessons Learned Steering Group. The Steering Group was established by our department in September 2024 to take forward consideration and implementation of Covid-19 Inquiry Modular recommendations, as well as embedding Lessons Learned from responding to the Inquiry across all departments.
The Executive discussed the Draft Response to Module 1 report on 19 December 2024, the response was agreed at the Executive meeting in early January 2025. The aim is to publish this in the next few weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018967%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419532","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419532"}},{"id":"419531","reference":"AQW 18966/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-13","answered":"2024-12-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for their assessment of the trauma that exists due to the conflict in Northern Ireland; and (ii) whether they have any plans to review the impact of all forms of trauma and the public response across Executive Departments and public bodies.","answerText":"The legacy of the past continues to affect the everyday lives of many people here. The Victims and Survivors Service (VSS) and funded community partners continue to support around 16,000 individuals annually. The impact crosses generations, so it is vital that we work towards breaking the chain of trauma which has resulted from our difficult past.\n\nWe are committed to embedding trauma-informed approaches within the work of our department and the wider public sector. In the draft Programme for Government, we have committed to developing a trauma-informed public sector and understanding the impact of trauma in society.\n\nA Trauma Informed Practice team in the Safeguarding Board (SBNI) is funded by the cross-Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime. The SBNI’s Trauma Informed Practice Implementation managers will continue to support member and partner agencies to embed trauma informed approaches building on existing knowledge of adversity and trauma.\n\nAs part of this cross-Executive Programme, a prevalence study is currently underway to establish a comprehensive understanding of the levels of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), childhood trauma and exposure to violence in Northern Ireland. This will be both comparable with other international studies and will also evidence the relationship between these factors and health-related outcomes. The report is expected to launch in February 2025.\n\nWithin The Executive Office, the vision of our new Strategy for Victims and Survivors of the Troubles/Conflict 2024-2034 is of ‘a trauma informed society that addresses the needs of victims and survivors.’ We are committed to ensuring that the right trauma informed, and victim centred services are in place to empower and support victims and survivors.\n\nWe are pleased that the VSS recently became the first organisation here to be accredited with a Silver ‘Trauma-Informed: Working with Trauma Quality Mark’, offering formal recognition of the VSS trauma-informed approach.\n\nIn addition, the Regional Trauma Network (RTN) opened in April 2023 with a phased approach. Phase 1 focuses on victims and survivors with the statutory and community and voluntary sector working collaboratively to provide specialist trauma care. In addition to referrals between statutory and community sectors, significant collaborative work is ongoing within the RTN in wider areas relating to trauma care, including Children and Young People, Training and Development, Research, Trauma and Addictions, and Trauma and Chronic Pain.","answerHtml":"The legacy of the past continues to affect the everyday lives of many people here. The Victims and Survivors Service (VSS) and funded community partners continue to support around 16,000 individuals annually. The impact crosses generations, so it is vital that we work towards breaking the chain of trauma which has resulted from our difficult past.
We are committed to embedding trauma-informed approaches within the work of our department and the wider public sector. In the draft Programme for Government, we have committed to developing a trauma-informed public sector and understanding the impact of trauma in society.
A Trauma Informed Practice team in the Safeguarding Board (SBNI) is funded by the cross-Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime. The SBNI’s Trauma Informed Practice Implementation managers will continue to support member and partner agencies to embed trauma informed approaches building on existing knowledge of adversity and trauma.
As part of this cross-Executive Programme, a prevalence study is currently underway to establish a comprehensive understanding of the levels of Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), childhood trauma and exposure to violence in Northern Ireland. This will be both comparable with other international studies and will also evidence the relationship between these factors and health-related outcomes. The report is expected to launch in February 2025.
Within The Executive Office, the vision of our new Strategy for Victims and Survivors of the Troubles/Conflict 2024-2034 is of ‘a trauma informed society that addresses the needs of victims and survivors.’ We are committed to ensuring that the right trauma informed, and victim centred services are in place to empower and support victims and survivors.
We are pleased that the VSS recently became the first organisation here to be accredited with a Silver ‘Trauma-Informed: Working with Trauma Quality Mark’, offering formal recognition of the VSS trauma-informed approach.
In addition, the Regional Trauma Network (RTN) opened in April 2023 with a phased approach. Phase 1 focuses on victims and survivors with the statutory and community and voluntary sector working collaboratively to provide specialist trauma care. In addition to referrals between statutory and community sectors, significant collaborative work is ongoing within the RTN in wider areas relating to trauma care, including Children and Young People, Training and Development, Research, Trauma and Addictions, and Trauma and Chronic Pain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018966%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419531","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419531"}},{"id":"419530","reference":"AQW 18965/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-13","answered":"2025-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they have had any discussions with the British Government in relation to a post-conflict reconciliation process.","answerText":"We are committed to promoting reconciliation. While we have had no specific discussions with the UK Government in relation to a post-conflict reconciliation process, we have committed, in the draft Programme for Government, to building on the successes of the past twenty-five years to make sure that our peace is meaningful and prosperous for everyone here.","answerHtml":"We are committed to promoting reconciliation. While we have had no specific discussions with the UK Government in relation to a post-conflict reconciliation process, we have committed, in the draft Programme for Government, to building on the successes of the past twenty-five years to make sure that our peace is meaningful and prosperous for everyone here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018965%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419530","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419530"}},{"id":"419529","reference":"AQW 18964/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-13","answered":"2024-12-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has considered developing a public health strategy for trauma and intergenerational trauma, including post-conflict trauma and other forms of trauma, separate to the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031.","answerText":"There are a number of different initiatives exploring and addressing the impact of trauma on the population of Northern Ireland. It is important to have a joined up approach and I am pleased that the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland is leading work in this area, and has published a report based on research findings from Queen’s University, Belfast earlier this year ‘We are on a journey’: Implementing Trauma Informed Approaches in Northern Ireland.’\n\nThis research calls for the adoption of a trauma informed approach across all systems, organisations, policies and services in Northern Ireland, for the benefit of all in our society. To this end they have launched a Trauma Informed Toolkit to embed a trauma informed approach within organisations and systems.\n\nVarious organisations have now gained specific accreditation in being trauma informed.\n\nThe Regional Trauma Network (RTN) has also been developed specifically to address the impact of trauma caused by the Troubles/conflict. This network is envisaged to cover from cradle to grave, across all of Northern Ireland and operates in partnership with the Health and Social Care system, community and voluntary sector partners and the Victims and Survivors Service. In terms of intergenerational trauma, the RTN vision includes separate adult and infant/children/young people’s trauma services in each Trust.\n\nTroubles-related trauma can manifest differently in our population of under 18s who have not directly experienced the Troubles/conflict. To this end the consultants engage in a range of work with other professionals to promote understanding of the impact of trauma via psychoeduation, consultation and training as well as some one to one work with impacted children and young people.","answerHtml":"There are a number of different initiatives exploring and addressing the impact of trauma on the population of Northern Ireland. It is important to have a joined up approach and I am pleased that the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland is leading work in this area, and has published a report based on research findings from Queen’s University, Belfast earlier this year ‘We are on a journey’: Implementing Trauma Informed Approaches in Northern Ireland.’
This research calls for the adoption of a trauma informed approach across all systems, organisations, policies and services in Northern Ireland, for the benefit of all in our society. To this end they have launched a Trauma Informed Toolkit to embed a trauma informed approach within organisations and systems.
Various organisations have now gained specific accreditation in being trauma informed.
The Regional Trauma Network (RTN) has also been developed specifically to address the impact of trauma caused by the Troubles/conflict. This network is envisaged to cover from cradle to grave, across all of Northern Ireland and operates in partnership with the Health and Social Care system, community and voluntary sector partners and the Victims and Survivors Service. In terms of intergenerational trauma, the RTN vision includes separate adult and infant/children/young people’s trauma services in each Trust.
Troubles-related trauma can manifest differently in our population of under 18s who have not directly experienced the Troubles/conflict. To this end the consultants engage in a range of work with other professionals to promote understanding of the impact of trauma via psychoeduation, consultation and training as well as some one to one work with impacted children and young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018964%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419529","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419529"}},{"id":"419625","reference":"AQO 1306/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-28","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline any plans to coordinate the public, community and medical transport sectors to improve access and connectivity.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"I met Ministers Nesbitt and Muir on 9 September to discuss the cross-departmental working group on community transport, which I established in my previous time as Minister. We collectively agreed that the group will look to consider whether transport in the community can provide a more cost-effective, value-for-money service delivery model to meet the needs of users, and to investigate the potential for community transport providers to be part of a collaborative group of transport options and pathways that can be accessed by the population. My officials are preparing a new transport strategy and a new suite of transport plans that will set the framework for transport policy and investment decisions until 2035. The suite of transport plans will not consider changes to community transport operations, as those matters are being considered separately by the Department at a regional level and will be integrated into the plans as appropriate. While health and social care transport is the responsibility of the Department of Health, the transport plans will consider access, including by public transport, to the main health and social care facilities."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Minister, for your response. I am pleased to hear that you are working with other Departments to try to coordinate a transport approach. I encourage you to look in particular at the impact on rural areas. It can take up to an hour to get from Coleraine to Castlerock on a public transport bus, whereas it takes 10 minutes in a car. If community transport can take customers to the bus stop, there are ways that we can do that better. Are there any more conversations that we can have about medical transport? I know that a lot of people are paying privately for that service, and the cost is quite significant."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"I am happy for my Department to engage in any conversations as to how we assist the public, whether in accessing healthcare or other matters, particularly in rural communities. Many rural communities have been left behind for far too long when it comes to the provision of public transport. Even as part of the community transport review that I am carrying out, we will have to look at how we deliver that transport in a different way in order to ensure that there is equal access to services for rural communities."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201306%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419625","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-12-10&docID=420418#AQO%201306/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419625"}},{"id":"419411","reference":"AQW 18891/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-27","answerBy":"2024-12-12","answered":"2025-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether his Department has considered any homelessness projections for the next ten years if Northern Ireland continues to not meet demand for social and affordable housing.","answerText":"There are no future projections for Homelessness presentations or acceptances. The circumstances of each household are considered on a case by case basis by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to determine eligibility for housing assistance in line with the relevant legislation.\n\nHomelessness statistics are published regularly by my Department (See Housing statistics | Department for Communities). There has been minimal change in the numbers of Homelessness presentations and acceptances over recent years.","answerHtml":"There are no future projections for Homelessness presentations or acceptances. The circumstances of each household are considered on a case by case basis by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to determine eligibility for housing assistance in line with the relevant legislation.
Homelessness statistics are published regularly by my Department (See Housing statistics | Department for Communities). There has been minimal change in the numbers of Homelessness presentations and acceptances over recent years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018891%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419411"}},{"id":"419410","reference":"AQW 18890/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-27","answerBy":"2024-12-12","answered":"2025-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of the social housing waiting list in Northern Ireland compared with other regions of the UK and Ireland.","answerText":"The housing challenges that we face here are significant and the trend of increasing numbers on the waiting list and in housing stress is not sustainable. My assessment of the issues here has informed my Housing Supply Strategy, which sets out a fifteen-year framework, endorsed by the Executive, for the whole system change that is needed.\n\nIn terms of how the waiting list in NI compares to other jurisdictions I have sought this information from the Chief Executive of the Housing Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“It is difficult to compare social housing waiting lists in Northern Ireland with other regions of the UK and Ireland. This is due to the significant variation in how social housing waiting lists operate across the UK and Ireland. There can also be variation in how they operate between local authorities within a country.\n\nThere are differences in how eligibility for social housing is assessed. For example, in the Republic of Ireland, households must be below a particular income threshold to be considered for social housing. Households in receipt of Housing Assistance Payment in Ireland are not included on the waiting list for social housing (although they can be on a transfer list). In GB and the Republic of Ireland, some local authorities operate a local connections test to assess eligibility for social housing, whilst others do not. In Northern Ireland the Housing Selection Scheme does not refer to local connection.\n\nThere are also differences in how applicants are prioritised / ranked on a social housing waiting list. In Northern Ireland we operate one points-based system for the whole country. In England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland, each local authority has its own allocations policy. In the Republic of Ireland most local authorities operate a “time on list” approach, so those that have been waiting the longest are allocated a property first. In Great Britain (GB), there is variation both across nations and within nations in how priority is determined. This includes the use of a banded approach to allocations (with varying number and types of bands), a points-based approach, or a combination of points and bands. A Choice-based lettings approach to allocations is also used by some local authorities across GB and Ireland.”","answerHtml":"The housing challenges that we face here are significant and the trend of increasing numbers on the waiting list and in housing stress is not sustainable. My assessment of the issues here has informed my Housing Supply Strategy, which sets out a fifteen-year framework, endorsed by the Executive, for the whole system change that is needed.
In terms of how the waiting list in NI compares to other jurisdictions I have sought this information from the Chief Executive of the Housing Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“It is difficult to compare social housing waiting lists in Northern Ireland with other regions of the UK and Ireland. This is due to the significant variation in how social housing waiting lists operate across the UK and Ireland. There can also be variation in how they operate between local authorities within a country.
There are differences in how eligibility for social housing is assessed. For example, in the Republic of Ireland, households must be below a particular income threshold to be considered for social housing. Households in receipt of Housing Assistance Payment in Ireland are not included on the waiting list for social housing (although they can be on a transfer list). In GB and the Republic of Ireland, some local authorities operate a local connections test to assess eligibility for social housing, whilst others do not. In Northern Ireland the Housing Selection Scheme does not refer to local connection.
There are also differences in how applicants are prioritised / ranked on a social housing waiting list. In Northern Ireland we operate one points-based system for the whole country. In England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland, each local authority has its own allocations policy. In the Republic of Ireland most local authorities operate a “time on list” approach, so those that have been waiting the longest are allocated a property first. In Great Britain (GB), there is variation both across nations and within nations in how priority is determined. This includes the use of a banded approach to allocations (with varying number and types of bands), a points-based approach, or a combination of points and bands. A Choice-based lettings approach to allocations is also used by some local authorities across GB and Ireland.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018890%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419410"}},{"id":"419409","reference":"AQW 18889/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-27","answerBy":"2024-12-12","answered":"2024-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of why addressing financial abuse is difficult; (ii) to detail her Department’s work relating to financial abuse; and (iii) to detail any plans to raise public awareness in this area.","answerText":"Ensuring that there are effective protections in place for victims of domestic abuse, including where this takes the form of financial abuse, is a priority for me as Justice Minister. I have listened to many victims and their families who have shared their painful experiences, and I recognise the courage it takes to speak about them.\n\nAddressing financial abuse can be difficult because people may not recognise it as such. Financial matters are often seen as a private and, therefore, people may be reluctant to report it, or may be embarrassed to do so.\n\nThe Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 introduced a new domestic abuse offence which criminalises behaviour that is controlling or coercive or amounts to psychological, emotional, technological or financial abuse. It captures patterns of physical and/or psychological abuse by a partner, ex-partner or close family member and covers behaviour that is physically violent, threatening or intimidating.\n\nWhen the new offence was introduced, my Department launched a public awareness campaign including a series of online videos detailing the various types of domestic abuse; financial abuse is depicted in these powerful videos and they sign post victims on how to report the abuse. Additional advice on the domestic abuse offence and the videos remains available on the NI Direct website under the title ‘Still Abuse’.\n\nWhilst PSNI training is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, I have been advised that the PSNI has undertaken an extensive training programme in relation to the new domestic abuse offence, including understanding coercive controlling behaviour, the impact of domestic abuse and pathways to support. That training is on-going and PSNI has advised that work is underway to develop a series of case studies that can be used as training materials across the organisation which will help in addressing financial abuse.\n\nI am also aware that the draft Adult Protection Bill, which is being developed by the Department of Health, is also likely to make provision that may help with addressing financial abuse.","answerHtml":"Ensuring that there are effective protections in place for victims of domestic abuse, including where this takes the form of financial abuse, is a priority for me as Justice Minister. I have listened to many victims and their families who have shared their painful experiences, and I recognise the courage it takes to speak about them.
Addressing financial abuse can be difficult because people may not recognise it as such. Financial matters are often seen as a private and, therefore, people may be reluctant to report it, or may be embarrassed to do so.
The Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 introduced a new domestic abuse offence which criminalises behaviour that is controlling or coercive or amounts to psychological, emotional, technological or financial abuse. It captures patterns of physical and/or psychological abuse by a partner, ex-partner or close family member and covers behaviour that is physically violent, threatening or intimidating.
When the new offence was introduced, my Department launched a public awareness campaign including a series of online videos detailing the various types of domestic abuse; financial abuse is depicted in these powerful videos and they sign post victims on how to report the abuse. Additional advice on the domestic abuse offence and the videos remains available on the NI Direct website under the title ‘Still Abuse’.
Whilst PSNI training is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, I have been advised that the PSNI has undertaken an extensive training programme in relation to the new domestic abuse offence, including understanding coercive controlling behaviour, the impact of domestic abuse and pathways to support. That training is on-going and PSNI has advised that work is underway to develop a series of case studies that can be used as training materials across the organisation which will help in addressing financial abuse.
I am also aware that the draft Adult Protection Bill, which is being developed by the Department of Health, is also likely to make provision that may help with addressing financial abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018889%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419409"}},{"id":"419408","reference":"AQW 18888/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-27","answerBy":"2024-12-12","answered":"2024-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 17492/22-27, to provide a timeline of when he plans to begin work at a regional level to take forward a targeted screening programme.","answerText":"As outlined in AQW 17492/22-27, we are at the early stages of scoping out what the requirements of a targeted lung cancer screening programme, for those at high risk of the disease for Northern Ireland will be. It is anticipated that this work will begin in 2025, subject to financial considerations.","answerHtml":"As outlined in AQW 17492/22-27, we are at the early stages of scoping out what the requirements of a targeted lung cancer screening programme, for those at high risk of the disease for Northern Ireland will be. It is anticipated that this work will begin in 2025, subject to financial considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018888%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419408","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419408"}},{"id":"419407","reference":"AQW 18887/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-27","answerBy":"2024-12-12","answered":"2024-12-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans to (i) support dentists to continue providing a public service; and (ii) encourage dentists back who are no longer providing a public service.","answerText":"I am aware of the challenges currently being experienced within General Dental Services and I am committed to taking meaningful action to ensure the service works better for both patients and dental professionals.\n\nThis is why for many months now, the focus of my Department has been on improving access to General Dental Services, particularly for high-need patients, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices – such as the £9.2m investment announced earlier this year to reestablish the Enhanced Child Examination (ECE), establish the Dental Access Service (DAS), and fund the 30% enhancement to the fees paid for fillings.\n\nThe DAS commenced on 1st August 2024. There are currently 30 practices participating in the scheme, details of which (including participating practices) can be viewed at: https://online.hscni.net/dental-access-scheme/. In the first ten weeks the scheme has enabled the treatment of more than 4700 patients with an urgent or pressing dental condition.\n\nFrom June to November 2024, 18,100 newly registered children have benefitted from the Enhanced Child Examination scheme.\n\nEarly indications are that these measures have had a positive impact and my Department will be monitoring the results closely.\n\nWhile interventions such as the DAS and ECE have been necessary to stabilise the service, long-term change will require sustained effort, rather than a single, one-off intervention. My officials will be engaging with the British Dental Association on how best to achieve these strategic aims, and address the concerns of the profession, as a matter of priority.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the challenges currently being experienced within General Dental Services and I am committed to taking meaningful action to ensure the service works better for both patients and dental professionals.
This is why for many months now, the focus of my Department has been on improving access to General Dental Services, particularly for high-need patients, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices – such as the £9.2m investment announced earlier this year to reestablish the Enhanced Child Examination (ECE), establish the Dental Access Service (DAS), and fund the 30% enhancement to the fees paid for fillings.
The DAS commenced on 1st August 2024. There are currently 30 practices participating in the scheme, details of which (including participating practices) can be viewed at: https://online.hscni.net/dental-access-scheme/. In the first ten weeks the scheme has enabled the treatment of more than 4700 patients with an urgent or pressing dental condition.
From June to November 2024, 18,100 newly registered children have benefitted from the Enhanced Child Examination scheme.
Early indications are that these measures have had a positive impact and my Department will be monitoring the results closely.
While interventions such as the DAS and ECE have been necessary to stabilise the service, long-term change will require sustained effort, rather than a single, one-off intervention. My officials will be engaging with the British Dental Association on how best to achieve these strategic aims, and address the concerns of the profession, as a matter of priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018887%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419407","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419407"}},{"id":"419246","reference":"AQW 18807/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-26","answerBy":"2024-12-11","answered":"2024-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the levels of social workers (a) in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust; and (b) across Northern Ireland to support children, the vulnerable and their families; (ii) to detail the impact a shortage of social workers will have on service users; and (iii) to detail any plans he has to improve this.","answerText":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust has reported that their current level of social workers is insufficient to meet the support needs of service users.\n\nEnsuring a sufficient level of social workers continues to be a challenge across all Health and Social Care Trusts due to recruitment, retention and sickness absence issues.\n\nThis impacts on social work availability in some services, resulting in the use of waiting lists/unallocated cases to manage referrals, therefore impacting on waiting times for service users in some areas. While there are protocols in place to manage waiting lists, there is the risk that high priority need will not be identified and met.\n\nMy department continues to work collaboratively with all five Health and Social Care Trusts to address vacancy and absence levels in social work services. This has involved a number of Department-led regional initiatives in an effort to stabilise the HSC social work workforce, including:\n\nCeasing the use of recruitment agency social workers in June 2023.\n\nThe fast-track recruitment of newly qualifying social workers into vacant posts.\n\nParticipating in regional recruitment exercises for Band 6 social work staff.\n\nDeveloping an evidence base for safer staffing in social work in order to issue guidance to HSC Trusts in 2025.\n\nHowever, despite this activity there continues to be an inadequate supply of social workers to meet current service demands. I have secured funding for an additional 40 training places for social work this year and I will seek to make further places available as funding allows.","answerHtml":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust has reported that their current level of social workers is insufficient to meet the support needs of service users.
Ensuring a sufficient level of social workers continues to be a challenge across all Health and Social Care Trusts due to recruitment, retention and sickness absence issues.
This impacts on social work availability in some services, resulting in the use of waiting lists/unallocated cases to manage referrals, therefore impacting on waiting times for service users in some areas. While there are protocols in place to manage waiting lists, there is the risk that high priority need will not be identified and met.
My department continues to work collaboratively with all five Health and Social Care Trusts to address vacancy and absence levels in social work services. This has involved a number of Department-led regional initiatives in an effort to stabilise the HSC social work workforce, including:
Ceasing the use of recruitment agency social workers in June 2023.
The fast-track recruitment of newly qualifying social workers into vacant posts.
Participating in regional recruitment exercises for Band 6 social work staff.
Developing an evidence base for safer staffing in social work in order to issue guidance to HSC Trusts in 2025.
However, despite this activity there continues to be an inadequate supply of social workers to meet current service demands. I have secured funding for an additional 40 training places for social work this year and I will seek to make further places available as funding allows.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018807%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419246","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419246"}},{"id":"419245","reference":"AQW 18806/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-26","answerBy":"2024-12-11","answered":"2024-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on when the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 will be fully implemented.","answerText":"Currently there is no indicative timeframe for full implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.\n\nA joint Department of Health and Department of Justice project team has recently been established to commence a programme of work over the next 12 months to scope the remaining uncommenced provisions of the Act and develop a costed future implementation plan. This will help inform future decision making around full implementation.","answerHtml":"Currently there is no indicative timeframe for full implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016.
A joint Department of Health and Department of Justice project team has recently been established to commence a programme of work over the next 12 months to scope the remaining uncommenced provisions of the Act and develop a costed future implementation plan. This will help inform future decision making around full implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018806%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419245"}},{"id":"419244","reference":"AQW 18805/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-26","answerBy":"2024-12-11","answered":"2025-01-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the varying interpretations of mental capacity in medical settings compared with care settings, including domiciliary care; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to address this.","answerText":"(i) The Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) is legislation designed to promote rights and safeguard vulnerable people who are not able to make decisions for themselves. It also includes rules around the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).\n\nThe legislation is designed to support decision making for people who are vulnerable, whilst also promoting autonomy and inclusion.\n\nThere are five statutory Principles that are to be upheld at all times when working under this legislation.\n\nThese are:\n\nNo-one should be treated as lacking capacity unless proven they do\n\nNo assumptions can be made (based on any condition the person may have, or any characteristics of the person)\n\nHelp and support must be provided\n\nNo assumptions can be made because of unwise decisions\n\nAll acts and decisions must be made in the person’s best interests.\n\nThe Act provides staff, carers, senior clinicians and managers, direction on the applicability of this legislation, known as the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, and affords protection from liability as long as decision making includes:\n\nA reasonable belief that the person lacks capacity to make a particular decision;\n\nA reasonable belief that the decision is in the person’s best interests;\n\nA belief that failure to detain the person would create a risk of serious harm to that person or someone else; and\n\nThat the additional safeguards required for lawful deprivation of liberty, are in place.\n\nThe Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards are applicable across all settings, including medical, care homes and domiciliary care and decisions taken in relation to Deprivation of Liberty must be authorised by due process.\n\nThe professionals who work with patients across these settings are required to undertake person centred assessments to determine, if they meet the threshold for a deprivation of liberty authorisation.\n\nMental Capacity legislation can be applied in both medical and care settings to reflect both the needs of the individual and the setting in which the patient is currently in.\n\nIf it is believed that a person lacks capacity; is unable to leave, and under continuous control and supervision; their confinement is guided by whether an application is made for a Trust Panel Authorisation (TPA) or Short-Term Detention Authorisation (STDA) to provide the authority to detain a person.\n\nSTDA applications are made for patients who may require this authority whilst they are in an acute setting for a relatively short period. This authorisation, as the title reflects, enables the patient to be cared for, under continual supervision and control, (meaning they are not free to leave), for up to 28 days.\n\nPeople who reside in care homes or domiciliary settings normally require a Trust Panel Authorisation (TPA) which lasts longer than a STDA. The TPA is put in place for up to 6 months with the option to extend for a further 6 months and yearly thereafter.\n\nThe interpretation and application of mental capacity in Northern Ireland can vary between medical and care settings, including domiciliary care, due to the partial implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (MCA).\n\nAt present, the Act is only operational in the context of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Other decisions involving capacity - such as consent to treatment, financial decisions, or care arrangements - continue to rely on common law principles or Declaratory Orders issued by the courts.\n\nIn medical settings, capacity assessments are often focused on immediate, acute decisions, such as consent to treatment or refusal of interventions. These assessments are typically carried out by doctors or other healthcare professionals based on common law principles, which emphasise the individual's ability to understand, retain, process information, and communicate a decision. A Declaratory Order may be sought in complex or contentious cases to ensure clarity and legal protection. It can be applied for through the High Court, when it is deemed necessary to intervene to protect those who have been assessed as lacking the relevant capacity, to ensure often urgent, medical interventions are lawful and are in the patient’s best interests.\n\nIn care settings, including domiciliary care, the context differs. Capacity decisions often relate to broader, long-term matters, such as daily living arrangements, financial management, or routine care needs. These assessments may be conducted by multi-disciplinary professionals, often without the formalised framework that the Act provides.\n\nFor decisions involving deprivation of liberty, DoLS processes under the Act apply, but other capacity-related decisions are governed by common law or Declaratory Orders.\n\nThe lack of full implementation of the Act creates variability in how capacity is interpreted and applied across different settings, potentially impacting individuals' rights and protections.\n\nThe Department of Health recognises the challenges posed by the partial implementation of the Act and the resulting reliance on multiple legal frameworks. While the Department is currently considering the commencement of provisions relating to restraint, there are no indicative timings at this stage for full MCA implementation. Work is ongoing to develop an updated implementation plan for full commencement that will enable a better understanding of funding and resource need.\n\n(ii) Each Health and Social Care Trust has assurance arrangements in place to monitor the application of the legislation. This is also reviewed by the Attorney General’s Office and the Review Tribunal.","answerHtml":"(i) The Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) is legislation designed to promote rights and safeguard vulnerable people who are not able to make decisions for themselves. It also includes rules around the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS).
The legislation is designed to support decision making for people who are vulnerable, whilst also promoting autonomy and inclusion.
There are five statutory Principles that are to be upheld at all times when working under this legislation.
These are:
No-one should be treated as lacking capacity unless proven they do
No assumptions can be made (based on any condition the person may have, or any characteristics of the person)
Help and support must be provided
No assumptions can be made because of unwise decisions
All acts and decisions must be made in the person’s best interests.
The Act provides staff, carers, senior clinicians and managers, direction on the applicability of this legislation, known as the Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards, and affords protection from liability as long as decision making includes:
A reasonable belief that the person lacks capacity to make a particular decision;
A reasonable belief that the decision is in the person’s best interests;
A belief that failure to detain the person would create a risk of serious harm to that person or someone else; and
That the additional safeguards required for lawful deprivation of liberty, are in place.
The Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards are applicable across all settings, including medical, care homes and domiciliary care and decisions taken in relation to Deprivation of Liberty must be authorised by due process.
The professionals who work with patients across these settings are required to undertake person centred assessments to determine, if they meet the threshold for a deprivation of liberty authorisation.
Mental Capacity legislation can be applied in both medical and care settings to reflect both the needs of the individual and the setting in which the patient is currently in.
If it is believed that a person lacks capacity; is unable to leave, and under continuous control and supervision; their confinement is guided by whether an application is made for a Trust Panel Authorisation (TPA) or Short-Term Detention Authorisation (STDA) to provide the authority to detain a person.
STDA applications are made for patients who may require this authority whilst they are in an acute setting for a relatively short period. This authorisation, as the title reflects, enables the patient to be cared for, under continual supervision and control, (meaning they are not free to leave), for up to 28 days.
People who reside in care homes or domiciliary settings normally require a Trust Panel Authorisation (TPA) which lasts longer than a STDA. The TPA is put in place for up to 6 months with the option to extend for a further 6 months and yearly thereafter.
The interpretation and application of mental capacity in Northern Ireland can vary between medical and care settings, including domiciliary care, due to the partial implementation of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (MCA).
At present, the Act is only operational in the context of Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (DoLS). Other decisions involving capacity - such as consent to treatment, financial decisions, or care arrangements - continue to rely on common law principles or Declaratory Orders issued by the courts.
In medical settings, capacity assessments are often focused on immediate, acute decisions, such as consent to treatment or refusal of interventions. These assessments are typically carried out by doctors or other healthcare professionals based on common law principles, which emphasise the individual's ability to understand, retain, process information, and communicate a decision. A Declaratory Order may be sought in complex or contentious cases to ensure clarity and legal protection. It can be applied for through the High Court, when it is deemed necessary to intervene to protect those who have been assessed as lacking the relevant capacity, to ensure often urgent, medical interventions are lawful and are in the patient’s best interests.
In care settings, including domiciliary care, the context differs. Capacity decisions often relate to broader, long-term matters, such as daily living arrangements, financial management, or routine care needs. These assessments may be conducted by multi-disciplinary professionals, often without the formalised framework that the Act provides.
For decisions involving deprivation of liberty, DoLS processes under the Act apply, but other capacity-related decisions are governed by common law or Declaratory Orders.
The lack of full implementation of the Act creates variability in how capacity is interpreted and applied across different settings, potentially impacting individuals' rights and protections.
The Department of Health recognises the challenges posed by the partial implementation of the Act and the resulting reliance on multiple legal frameworks. While the Department is currently considering the commencement of provisions relating to restraint, there are no indicative timings at this stage for full MCA implementation. Work is ongoing to develop an updated implementation plan for full commencement that will enable a better understanding of funding and resource need.
(ii) Each Health and Social Care Trust has assurance arrangements in place to monitor the application of the legislation. This is also reviewed by the Attorney General’s Office and the Review Tribunal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018805%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419244"}},{"id":"419243","reference":"AQW 18804/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-26","answerBy":"2024-12-11","answered":"2024-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the safeguards in place to prevent domestic abusers from using the health and social care system to further abuse their victims.","answerText":"Within HSC Trusts, access to patient records is provided via a role-based ‘need to know’ security principle, meaning users only see what they need in order to conduct their job safely and effectively. No additional information is accessible without express consent. Access is guarded by professional responsibility, and all HSC staff are contractually obligated to ensure that personal data is treated with the highest levels of confidentiality, and they adhere to the HSC Code of Practice on Protecting the Confidentiality of Service User Information, GDPR legislation, and the common law Duty of Confidentiality.\n\nOne important benefit of digital records is that access within the system is fully auditable with system-generated reports available to monitor and identify inappropriate access. Procedures are also in place to deal with any suspected data security breach.\n\nContractual obligations with independent service providers include data protection and confidentiality.\n\nIn HSCTs where Encompass has been rolled out, Trust Public Protection Teams can use a ‘Public Protection’ flag on Encompass for convicted offenders and ‘Public Protection/Sharing to Safeguard’ flag for MARAC victims and alleged perpetrators heard at MARAC. These flags are only visible to health & social care staff and will therefore alert health and social car staff if a known perpetrator of domestic abuse is utilising any health and social care services.\n\nAccess to information on My Care is controlled through use of personal usernames, passwords, and identity authentication via nidirect. My Care cannot be accessed without supplying a personal nidirect username and password.\n\nMy Care allows proxy access to patients / service users’ records. All Adult Safeguarding staff have been reminded to be aware of the potential misuse of this by abusers. A Proxy Policy has been cascaded to Trust staff. Trust staff can revoke proxy access, when there are concerns of domestic abuse or coercive control. My Care currently does not display social care information, including adult safeguarding. In addition, flags for example to alert for domestic abuse, are not visible on My Care.\n\nFurthermore, training pathways are in place which aim to ensure anyone who has contact with people who use Trust services will have an understanding of domestic and sexual abuse. Those staff who are tasked with working with people and families affected by this issue can avail of more specialist training to equip them to undertake their role.\n\nThe family court in Northern Ireland has a range of powers to deal with cases involving family conflict and separation under The Children (NI) Order 1995. However, the legislation is clear that when considering any change to a child's living and contact arrangements, the welfare of the child is the court’s paramount concern. Contact decisions which come before the court are a matter for that court.\n\nCourt Children’s Services, located within HSCTs, are responsible for discharging the Trusts’ legal responsibility to assist the family courts in making decisions about the care and contact arrangements for children when separating parents are unable to come to an agreement. Each Court Children’s Officer’s role is to represent the voice of the child/children in private law court proceedings. They advise the court on matters that impact upon the children, including the presence of any alienating behaviours for example, and make recommendations as to what may be in the child’s best interests.","answerHtml":"Within HSC Trusts, access to patient records is provided via a role-based ‘need to know’ security principle, meaning users only see what they need in order to conduct their job safely and effectively. No additional information is accessible without express consent. Access is guarded by professional responsibility, and all HSC staff are contractually obligated to ensure that personal data is treated with the highest levels of confidentiality, and they adhere to the HSC Code of Practice on Protecting the Confidentiality of Service User Information, GDPR legislation, and the common law Duty of Confidentiality.
One important benefit of digital records is that access within the system is fully auditable with system-generated reports available to monitor and identify inappropriate access. Procedures are also in place to deal with any suspected data security breach.
Contractual obligations with independent service providers include data protection and confidentiality.
In HSCTs where Encompass has been rolled out, Trust Public Protection Teams can use a ‘Public Protection’ flag on Encompass for convicted offenders and ‘Public Protection/Sharing to Safeguard’ flag for MARAC victims and alleged perpetrators heard at MARAC. These flags are only visible to health & social care staff and will therefore alert health and social car staff if a known perpetrator of domestic abuse is utilising any health and social care services.
Access to information on My Care is controlled through use of personal usernames, passwords, and identity authentication via nidirect. My Care cannot be accessed without supplying a personal nidirect username and password.
My Care allows proxy access to patients / service users’ records. All Adult Safeguarding staff have been reminded to be aware of the potential misuse of this by abusers. A Proxy Policy has been cascaded to Trust staff. Trust staff can revoke proxy access, when there are concerns of domestic abuse or coercive control. My Care currently does not display social care information, including adult safeguarding. In addition, flags for example to alert for domestic abuse, are not visible on My Care.
Furthermore, training pathways are in place which aim to ensure anyone who has contact with people who use Trust services will have an understanding of domestic and sexual abuse. Those staff who are tasked with working with people and families affected by this issue can avail of more specialist training to equip them to undertake their role.
The family court in Northern Ireland has a range of powers to deal with cases involving family conflict and separation under The Children (NI) Order 1995. However, the legislation is clear that when considering any change to a child's living and contact arrangements, the welfare of the child is the court’s paramount concern. Contact decisions which come before the court are a matter for that court.
Court Children’s Services, located within HSCTs, are responsible for discharging the Trusts’ legal responsibility to assist the family courts in making decisions about the care and contact arrangements for children when separating parents are unable to come to an agreement. Each Court Children’s Officer’s role is to represent the voice of the child/children in private law court proceedings. They advise the court on matters that impact upon the children, including the presence of any alienating behaviours for example, and make recommendations as to what may be in the child’s best interests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018804%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419243"}},{"id":"419242","reference":"AQW 18803/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-26","answerBy":"2024-12-11","answered":"2024-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how mothers experiencing (i) trauma; and (ii) postnatal depression are supported to remain with their children.","answerText":"The specialist perinatal mental health teams that are now operational in each Health and Social Care Trust provide a comprehensive service dedicated to treating illness in the mother alongside supporting and enhancing the relationship between the mother and her infant. The teams have a range of professionals with skills and expertise in this area, including parent infant psychotherapists, health visitors, midwives and psychologists. Each team is already starting to see very positive outcomes from these interventions.\n\nThe teams are also involved in training initiatives with a wide range of professionals for those women who do not meet threshold for specialist services.\n\nIn addition there are also a wide range of services already in existence in maternity services, primary care and the community and voluntary sector that adopt a trauma focused approach and are dedicated to supporting women to parent their children,\n\nIn addition, my officials are also progressing the provision of a Mother and Baby Unit. In early 2023 my Department commissioned an independent review to make recommendations and provide advice on a suitable model and location for a Mother and Baby Unit, which would best meet the needs of the population. The Department received the final report from the review team in mid-September 2023. It provided recommendations on the preferred service model for the unit, and the location of the Mother and Baby Unit, with the Belfast City Hospital site identified as the most suitable location. At that point, the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust was invited to prepare a business case for the provision of the proposed regional unit.\n\nThe business case for Mother and Baby Unit is currently being progressed. It should be noted that progression of this project will remain subject to the necessary funding for the unit being identified.","answerHtml":"The specialist perinatal mental health teams that are now operational in each Health and Social Care Trust provide a comprehensive service dedicated to treating illness in the mother alongside supporting and enhancing the relationship between the mother and her infant. The teams have a range of professionals with skills and expertise in this area, including parent infant psychotherapists, health visitors, midwives and psychologists. Each team is already starting to see very positive outcomes from these interventions.
The teams are also involved in training initiatives with a wide range of professionals for those women who do not meet threshold for specialist services.
In addition there are also a wide range of services already in existence in maternity services, primary care and the community and voluntary sector that adopt a trauma focused approach and are dedicated to supporting women to parent their children,
In addition, my officials are also progressing the provision of a Mother and Baby Unit. In early 2023 my Department commissioned an independent review to make recommendations and provide advice on a suitable model and location for a Mother and Baby Unit, which would best meet the needs of the population. The Department received the final report from the review team in mid-September 2023. It provided recommendations on the preferred service model for the unit, and the location of the Mother and Baby Unit, with the Belfast City Hospital site identified as the most suitable location. At that point, the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust was invited to prepare a business case for the provision of the proposed regional unit.
The business case for Mother and Baby Unit is currently being progressed. It should be noted that progression of this project will remain subject to the necessary funding for the unit being identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018803%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419242"}},{"id":"419033","reference":"AQW 18728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any steps he is taking to ensure the framework for Enduring Powers of Attorney aligns effectively with the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, particularly in cases where both financial and health decisions are required; and (ii) any discussions he has had with the Minister of Justice in relation to the introduction of health and welfare powers like those in the Lasting Powers of Attorney system in England and Wales.","answerText":"While the Office of Care and Protection administers Enduring Powers of Attorney, the substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. Any review of the 1987 Order would be a matter for the Minister of Finance to consider in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.\n\nLasting Powers of Attorney are provided for in Part 5 of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (MCA), which has yet to be commenced. While the commencement power rests with my Department, commencement is dependent upon other provisions in the MCA, which are the responsibility of the Department of Justice, in particular Part 7, which provides for the appointment of a Public Guardian.\n\nOfficials in my Department are currently working collaboratively with officials in the Department of Justice, as part of a joint project team, to commence a programme of work to identify the actions, resources and time required to allow for commencement of these and the other remaining provisions of the MCA. The development of a costed implementation plan will help inform future decisions regarding future commencement of the MCA.","answerHtml":"While the Office of Care and Protection administers Enduring Powers of Attorney, the substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. Any review of the 1987 Order would be a matter for the Minister of Finance to consider in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.
Lasting Powers of Attorney are provided for in Part 5 of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (MCA), which has yet to be commenced. While the commencement power rests with my Department, commencement is dependent upon other provisions in the MCA, which are the responsibility of the Department of Justice, in particular Part 7, which provides for the appointment of a Public Guardian.
Officials in my Department are currently working collaboratively with officials in the Department of Justice, as part of a joint project team, to commence a programme of work to identify the actions, resources and time required to allow for commencement of these and the other remaining provisions of the MCA. The development of a costed implementation plan will help inform future decisions regarding future commencement of the MCA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419033","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419033"}},{"id":"419032","reference":"AQW 18727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) why the cost of registering an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) in Northern Ireland is higher than the cost of registering a Lasting Power of Attorney in England and Wales; (ii) whether she has any plans to review or reduce this fee; and (iii) how she is ensuring the costs associated with creating and registering an EPA are not prohibitive for low-income individuals.","answerText":"(i) There are a number of legislative and administrative differences between Northern Ireland and England and Wales, consequently the processes for the completion and registration of an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) and a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) are different.\n\nAlthough an EPA only needs to be registered when the Donor loses capacity to manage their financial affairs the position is different for a LPA which needs to be registered once it is made. The current fee for registering an EPA is £180. While the fee for an LPA is £82, separate applications must be made for a Finance LPA and a Health and Welfare LPA making the total cost £164.\n\nThe courts system in Northern Ireland operates on the principle that those who use the civil or family courts should pay towards the cost of the service they use, if they can afford to do so. The policy on fee charging in Northern Ireland is set out in guidance published by the Department of Finance (DoF) and requires that fees should cover the full costs associated with providing the service including judicial, administrative and overhead costs.\n\n(ii) The ability to generate income from fees to fund civil and family courts is a key tool available to the Northern Ireland Courts & Tribunals Service (NICTS) in managing its budgetary pressures. Court fees were increased by 9% in 2023 and 2024 to help manage the financial position following the significant rise in inflation during 2022 and 2023. In light of the ongoing financial pressure on public sector budgets, it is important that court fees continue to keep pace with increased costs and, to minimise the cost to the taxpayer.\n\n(iii) The NICTS Help with Court Fees policy is available to provide assistance to individuals who are in receipt of certain means-tested benefits or are experiencing financial hardship. Under this policy, court fees can be waived or reduced for such individuals so ensuring that court users with limited financial means are not denied access to justice. In the event that an application for an EPA is received from an individual on low income and they meet these conditions, they would be able to get help with the associated court fee. An information leaflet, ‘Do I have to pay court fees?’, and the form for Exemption or Remission of a Court Fee can be found on my Department’s website.","answerHtml":"(i) There are a number of legislative and administrative differences between Northern Ireland and England and Wales, consequently the processes for the completion and registration of an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) and a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) are different.
Although an EPA only needs to be registered when the Donor loses capacity to manage their financial affairs the position is different for a LPA which needs to be registered once it is made. The current fee for registering an EPA is £180. While the fee for an LPA is £82, separate applications must be made for a Finance LPA and a Health and Welfare LPA making the total cost £164.
The courts system in Northern Ireland operates on the principle that those who use the civil or family courts should pay towards the cost of the service they use, if they can afford to do so. The policy on fee charging in Northern Ireland is set out in guidance published by the Department of Finance (DoF) and requires that fees should cover the full costs associated with providing the service including judicial, administrative and overhead costs.
(ii) The ability to generate income from fees to fund civil and family courts is a key tool available to the Northern Ireland Courts & Tribunals Service (NICTS) in managing its budgetary pressures. Court fees were increased by 9% in 2023 and 2024 to help manage the financial position following the significant rise in inflation during 2022 and 2023. In light of the ongoing financial pressure on public sector budgets, it is important that court fees continue to keep pace with increased costs and, to minimise the cost to the taxpayer.
(iii) The NICTS Help with Court Fees policy is available to provide assistance to individuals who are in receipt of certain means-tested benefits or are experiencing financial hardship. Under this policy, court fees can be waived or reduced for such individuals so ensuring that court users with limited financial means are not denied access to justice. In the event that an application for an EPA is received from an individual on low income and they meet these conditions, they would be able to get help with the associated court fee. An information leaflet, ‘Do I have to pay court fees?’, and the form for Exemption or Remission of a Court Fee can be found on my Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419032"}},{"id":"419031","reference":"AQW 18726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the current workload of the Office of Care and Protection in relation to Enduring Powers of Attorney registrations; and (ii) to detail any plans she has to (a) streamline; or (b) digitise this process.","answerText":"(i) Statistics on the workload of the Office of Care and Protection (OCP) in relation to Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) applications for registration are provided in the table below.\n\n2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\t2022\t2023\nEPA applications Received\t1188\t1210\t1099\t1341\t1433\t1631\n\nThe statistics demonstrate that, between 2018 and 2023, there has been an increase in applications of over 37%. The OCP target is to register 95% of EPA applications received, where no objection has been lodged, within 40 days of receipt of the required information. Currently, OCP is achieving a rate of 97%.\n\n(ii) While the OCP administers the registration of EPAs, the substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. Any review of the 1987 Order or streamlining of the registration process would therefore be a matter for the Minister of Finance to consider in conjunction with relevant stakeholders. However, to improve the experience for applicants, the EPA user guidance in relation to registration is currently in the process of being updated. In addition, the paper application forms needed to register an EPA are being redrafted in a digital format. It is anticipated that this will make the process more straightforward for applicants and improve efficiency. These forms will be available via NI Direct for downloading, printing and completion.","answerHtml":"(i) Statistics on the workload of the Office of Care and Protection (OCP) in relation to Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) applications for registration are provided in the table below.
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | |
| EPA applications Received | 1188 | 1210 | 1099 | 1341 | 1433 | 1631 |
The statistics demonstrate that, between 2018 and 2023, there has been an increase in applications of over 37%. The OCP target is to register 95% of EPA applications received, where no objection has been lodged, within 40 days of receipt of the required information. Currently, OCP is achieving a rate of 97%.
(ii) While the OCP administers the registration of EPAs, the substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. Any review of the 1987 Order or streamlining of the registration process would therefore be a matter for the Minister of Finance to consider in conjunction with relevant stakeholders. However, to improve the experience for applicants, the EPA user guidance in relation to registration is currently in the process of being updated. In addition, the paper application forms needed to register an EPA are being redrafted in a digital format. It is anticipated that this will make the process more straightforward for applicants and improve efficiency. These forms will be available via NI Direct for downloading, printing and completion.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419031","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419031"}},{"id":"419030","reference":"AQW 18725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the measures in place to prevent the misuse or abuse of Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA); and (ii) the oversight process once an EPA is registered.","answerText":"(i) The substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables a person (the Donor), to designate trusted family members or others (the Attorney), for future substitute decision-making over property and finance matters, in the event of a loss of mental capacity. An EPA is a legal document and the Donor has the power to place restrictions or conditions on when and how the Attorney may act. The Donor may cancel or amend the Enduring Power of Attorney at any time while they are mentally capable.\n\n(ii) When a Donor is becoming or has become mentally incapable, the Attorney has a duty to register the EPA with the Court. Under the registration process, notice parties, such as other family members, have 35 calendar days to object to the registration of the EPA from the date notice is given. If a concern is raised about the actions of an Attorney, either during the registration process or at any time following registration, the matter will be referred to the Court for direction. The Court has the power to investigate the concerns and revoke the EPA if it is not satisfied that the Attorney is acting in the Donor’s best interests.","answerHtml":"(i) The substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. An Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables a person (the Donor), to designate trusted family members or others (the Attorney), for future substitute decision-making over property and finance matters, in the event of a loss of mental capacity. An EPA is a legal document and the Donor has the power to place restrictions or conditions on when and how the Attorney may act. The Donor may cancel or amend the Enduring Power of Attorney at any time while they are mentally capable.
(ii) When a Donor is becoming or has become mentally incapable, the Attorney has a duty to register the EPA with the Court. Under the registration process, notice parties, such as other family members, have 35 calendar days to object to the registration of the EPA from the date notice is given. If a concern is raised about the actions of an Attorney, either during the registration process or at any time following registration, the matter will be referred to the Court for direction. The Court has the power to investigate the concerns and revoke the EPA if it is not satisfied that the Attorney is acting in the Donor’s best interests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419030"}},{"id":"419029","reference":"AQW 18724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-25","answerBy":"2024-12-10","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) whether she has any plans to review the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 to align with the broader mental capacity frameworks, such as the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016; and (ii) whether she has considered introducing lasting powers of attorney, similar to those in England and Wales, which allow for decisions about health and welfare as well as financial matters.","answerText":"While the Office of Care and Protection administers enduring powers of attorney, the substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. Any review of the 1987 Order would be a matter for the Minister of Finance to consider in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.\n\nLasting powers of attorney are provided for in Part 5 of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, which has yet to be commenced. The commencement power rests with the Department of Health, but commencement is dependent upon other provisions in that Act that are the responsibility of my department, in particular Part 7, which provides for the appointment of a Public Guardian. Officials in both departments are currently working on plans to identify the actions, resources and time required to allow for commencement of these and other provisions of the 2016 Act.","answerHtml":"While the Office of Care and Protection administers enduring powers of attorney, the substantive law contained in the Enduring Powers of Attorney (Northern Ireland) Order 1987 is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. Any review of the 1987 Order would be a matter for the Minister of Finance to consider in conjunction with relevant stakeholders.
Lasting powers of attorney are provided for in Part 5 of the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, which has yet to be commenced. The commencement power rests with the Department of Health, but commencement is dependent upon other provisions in that Act that are the responsibility of my department, in particular Part 7, which provides for the appointment of a Public Guardian. Officials in both departments are currently working on plans to identify the actions, resources and time required to allow for commencement of these and other provisions of the 2016 Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=419029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=419029"}},{"id":"418859","reference":"AQW 18652/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-22","answerBy":"2024-11-27","answered":"2024-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the recruitment of the Commissioner for Older People, including when an appointment is expected to be made.","answerText":"A public appointment competition for the role of Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland was launched in July 2024 and is well underway.\n\nAn appointment decision will be announced in due course.","answerHtml":"A public appointment competition for the role of Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland was launched in July 2024 and is well underway.
An appointment decision will be announced in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018652%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418859"}},{"id":"418764","reference":"AQO 1245/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-21","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to provide an update on the new digital process for the land registry system, including the new service provider.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"The Department is currently finalising contract terms with Fujitsu for the provision of the new IT land registration solution, which will transform Land Registry's services. The new IT solution will implement a range of new services via digital channels, and customers will be able to submit applications online. Many manual processes will be automated, which will result in an improved quality of service, increased workforce productivity and value for money. It is anticipated that the contract will be signed in January 2025, with the implementation phase of the new solution commencing in April 2025."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Minister. Does the Minister have any concerns about the Education Authority's (EA) recent decision not to proceed with a contract with Fujitsu for over £5 million?"},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"I am not over the detail of why the contract was not taken forward between the EA and Fujitsu. As the Member will be aware, public procurement here is regulated through the UK's Public Contracts Regulations 2015. My Department conducted a robust and vigorous procurement process that resulted in Fujitsu being the preferred bidder to deliver our new land registration IT solution."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201245%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418764","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-12-03&docID=419471#AQO%201245/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418764"}},{"id":"418112","reference":"AQW 18344/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the target response times that are in place for his Department when (i) considering whether or not a planning application should be called in; and (ii) processing and deciding a planning application that has been called in.","answerText":"Where a council is required to notify my Department in relation to a particular planning application, a council must not grant planning permission for the application before the expiry of a period of 28 days, from the date of notification. My Department has the power to extend this 28-day timeframe and, in practice, this can occur where an application is complex and where more time is required to decide whether or not the application warrants referral to it for determination. My Department also considers third party ‘call in’ requests, and whilst there is no legislative timeframe for a response, my Department assesses these requests, as well as all notified applications, as quickly as possible to ensure there are no unnecessary delays to the planning process.\n\nThe target for regionally significant applications is 30 weeks from validation to recommendation to the Minister. In terms of local and major applications, the statutory target is 15 and 30 weeks respectively. For called in applications, the date the application is called in by my Department is used instead of the date the application is deemed valid. Upon receipt of a called in application, my Department process these applications to a conclusion as expediently as possible.\n\nI am committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way and my Department is continuing to work closely with local government and partners to improve current processes and the performance of our planning system.","answerHtml":"Where a council is required to notify my Department in relation to a particular planning application, a council must not grant planning permission for the application before the expiry of a period of 28 days, from the date of notification. My Department has the power to extend this 28-day timeframe and, in practice, this can occur where an application is complex and where more time is required to decide whether or not the application warrants referral to it for determination. My Department also considers third party ‘call in’ requests, and whilst there is no legislative timeframe for a response, my Department assesses these requests, as well as all notified applications, as quickly as possible to ensure there are no unnecessary delays to the planning process.
The target for regionally significant applications is 30 weeks from validation to recommendation to the Minister. In terms of local and major applications, the statutory target is 15 and 30 weeks respectively. For called in applications, the date the application is called in by my Department is used instead of the date the application is deemed valid. Upon receipt of a called in application, my Department process these applications to a conclusion as expediently as possible.
I am committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way and my Department is continuing to work closely with local government and partners to improve current processes and the performance of our planning system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018344%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418112"}},{"id":"418111","reference":"AQW 18343/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he plans to fulfil his Department’s commitment of a clinical audit to measure the effectiveness of diabetes care.","answerText":"National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943, Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes, has been endorsed as applicable in Northern Ireland. Subsequently, my Department has requested work to be undertaken to understand the implications of this decision. Overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support, are being considered. Given the scale of investment needed, financial requirements are also being considered, as funding is required for devices as well as resources to upskill and recruit the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region. Final decision-making and commissioning arrangements for NI will be made, supported by an implementation plan. This will support the integration continuous glucose monitoring technologies into diabetes care and will be communicated to all stakeholders.\n\nDiabetes affects nearly 112,000 people in NI, with the number growing. We do not have the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses. Services have been recovering post covid, with additional investment to reduce waiting lists. Delivery of care is provided by diabetes specialist multidisciplinary teams, with patients in higher risk groups prioritised for review first. However, waiting lists remain long, with limited specialist workforce.\n\nAn integrated response is required for an increasing population presenting with multi-morbidities, utilising all existing assets across workforce, infrastructure, technology, finance and Community Voluntary Sector.\n\nWorking with key stakeholders, a Regional Integrated Pathway for Diabetes has been defined over the last two years. This Regional Pathway has been developed in line with the Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016). It will standardise access and provide equity across Northern Ireland, through the integration of diabetes services, supporting treatment and care now and in the future.\n\nA Diabetes Programme of Care Workforce Review is near completion, led by the Department of Health Workforce Policy Directorate. This review included diabetes specialist nurses as well as other specialist health care professions directly involved in the delivery of diabetes treatment and care. This 10-year forward view will inform workforce planning needs to ensure equitable access to specialist diabetes professionals across Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe, effective and quality service for people living with diabetes.\n\nThe Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016) included an action to participate in National Diabetes Audit, similar to the Diabetes Audit used in England and Wales.\n\nThe Department of Health remains committed to working towards participation in the National Diabetes Audit. However, there have been significant challenges in progressing this recommendation, as the required infrastructure is not currently in place to participate fully in the audit.\n\nWith the full implementation of Encompass, currently being rolled out across all Health and Social Care Trusts, the provision of data that is both available and extractable for the region will be available. This will support participation in the National Diabetes Audit in the future.","answerHtml":"National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943, Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes, has been endorsed as applicable in Northern Ireland. Subsequently, my Department has requested work to be undertaken to understand the implications of this decision. Overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support, are being considered. Given the scale of investment needed, financial requirements are also being considered, as funding is required for devices as well as resources to upskill and recruit the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region. Final decision-making and commissioning arrangements for NI will be made, supported by an implementation plan. This will support the integration continuous glucose monitoring technologies into diabetes care and will be communicated to all stakeholders.
Diabetes affects nearly 112,000 people in NI, with the number growing. We do not have the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses. Services have been recovering post covid, with additional investment to reduce waiting lists. Delivery of care is provided by diabetes specialist multidisciplinary teams, with patients in higher risk groups prioritised for review first. However, waiting lists remain long, with limited specialist workforce.
An integrated response is required for an increasing population presenting with multi-morbidities, utilising all existing assets across workforce, infrastructure, technology, finance and Community Voluntary Sector.
Working with key stakeholders, a Regional Integrated Pathway for Diabetes has been defined over the last two years. This Regional Pathway has been developed in line with the Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016). It will standardise access and provide equity across Northern Ireland, through the integration of diabetes services, supporting treatment and care now and in the future.
A Diabetes Programme of Care Workforce Review is near completion, led by the Department of Health Workforce Policy Directorate. This review included diabetes specialist nurses as well as other specialist health care professions directly involved in the delivery of diabetes treatment and care. This 10-year forward view will inform workforce planning needs to ensure equitable access to specialist diabetes professionals across Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe, effective and quality service for people living with diabetes.
The Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016) included an action to participate in National Diabetes Audit, similar to the Diabetes Audit used in England and Wales.
The Department of Health remains committed to working towards participation in the National Diabetes Audit. However, there have been significant challenges in progressing this recommendation, as the required infrastructure is not currently in place to participate fully in the audit.
With the full implementation of Encompass, currently being rolled out across all Health and Social Care Trusts, the provision of data that is both available and extractable for the region will be available. This will support participation in the National Diabetes Audit in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018343%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418111"}},{"id":"418110","reference":"AQW 18342/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses such as heart failure, stroke, sight loss and loss of sensation in feet; and (ii) whether staffing levels in this area of care are sufficient.","answerText":"National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943, Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes, has been endorsed as applicable in Northern Ireland. Subsequently, my Department has requested work to be undertaken to understand the implications of this decision. Overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support, are being considered. Given the scale of investment needed, financial requirements are also being considered, as funding is required for devices as well as resources to upskill and recruit the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region. Final decision-making and commissioning arrangements for NI will be made, supported by an implementation plan. This will support the integration continuous glucose monitoring technologies into diabetes care and will be communicated to all stakeholders.\n\nDiabetes affects nearly 112,000 people in NI, with the number growing. We do not have the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses. Services have been recovering post covid, with additional investment to reduce waiting lists. Delivery of care is provided by diabetes specialist multidisciplinary teams, with patients in higher risk groups prioritised for review first. However, waiting lists remain long, with limited specialist workforce.\n\nAn integrated response is required for an increasing population presenting with multi-morbidities, utilising all existing assets across workforce, infrastructure, technology, finance and Community Voluntary Sector.\n\nWorking with key stakeholders, a Regional Integrated Pathway for Diabetes has been defined over the last two years. This Regional Pathway has been developed in line with the Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016). It will standardise access and provide equity across Northern Ireland, through the integration of diabetes services, supporting treatment and care now and in the future.\n\nA Diabetes Programme of Care Workforce Review is near completion, led by the Department of Health Workforce Policy Directorate. This review included diabetes specialist nurses as well as other specialist health care professions directly involved in the delivery of diabetes treatment and care. This 10-year forward view will inform workforce planning needs to ensure equitable access to specialist diabetes professionals across Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe, effective and quality service for people living with diabetes.\n\nThe Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016) included an action to participate in National Diabetes Audit, similar to the Diabetes Audit used in England and Wales.\n\nThe Department of Health remains committed to working towards participation in the National Diabetes Audit. However, there have been significant challenges in progressing this recommendation, as the required infrastructure is not currently in place to participate fully in the audit.\n\nWith the full implementation of Encompass, currently being rolled out across all Health and Social Care Trusts, the provision of data that is both available and extractable for the region will be available. This will support participation in the National Diabetes Audit in the future.","answerHtml":"National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943, Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes, has been endorsed as applicable in Northern Ireland. Subsequently, my Department has requested work to be undertaken to understand the implications of this decision. Overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support, are being considered. Given the scale of investment needed, financial requirements are also being considered, as funding is required for devices as well as resources to upskill and recruit the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region. Final decision-making and commissioning arrangements for NI will be made, supported by an implementation plan. This will support the integration continuous glucose monitoring technologies into diabetes care and will be communicated to all stakeholders.
Diabetes affects nearly 112,000 people in NI, with the number growing. We do not have the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses. Services have been recovering post covid, with additional investment to reduce waiting lists. Delivery of care is provided by diabetes specialist multidisciplinary teams, with patients in higher risk groups prioritised for review first. However, waiting lists remain long, with limited specialist workforce.
An integrated response is required for an increasing population presenting with multi-morbidities, utilising all existing assets across workforce, infrastructure, technology, finance and Community Voluntary Sector.
Working with key stakeholders, a Regional Integrated Pathway for Diabetes has been defined over the last two years. This Regional Pathway has been developed in line with the Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016). It will standardise access and provide equity across Northern Ireland, through the integration of diabetes services, supporting treatment and care now and in the future.
A Diabetes Programme of Care Workforce Review is near completion, led by the Department of Health Workforce Policy Directorate. This review included diabetes specialist nurses as well as other specialist health care professions directly involved in the delivery of diabetes treatment and care. This 10-year forward view will inform workforce planning needs to ensure equitable access to specialist diabetes professionals across Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe, effective and quality service for people living with diabetes.
The Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016) included an action to participate in National Diabetes Audit, similar to the Diabetes Audit used in England and Wales.
The Department of Health remains committed to working towards participation in the National Diabetes Audit. However, there have been significant challenges in progressing this recommendation, as the required infrastructure is not currently in place to participate fully in the audit.
With the full implementation of Encompass, currently being rolled out across all Health and Social Care Trusts, the provision of data that is both available and extractable for the region will be available. This will support participation in the National Diabetes Audit in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018342%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418110"}},{"id":"418109","reference":"AQW 18341/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to supply insulin pumps and hybrid closed loop systems as standard to people living with type 1 diabetes.","answerText":"National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943, Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes, has been endorsed as applicable in Northern Ireland. Subsequently, my Department has requested work to be undertaken to understand the implications of this decision. Overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support, are being considered. Given the scale of investment needed, financial requirements are also being considered, as funding is required for devices as well as resources to upskill and recruit the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region. Final decision-making and commissioning arrangements for NI will be made, supported by an implementation plan. This will support the integration continuous glucose monitoring technologies into diabetes care and will be communicated to all stakeholders.\n\nDiabetes affects nearly 112,000 people in NI, with the number growing. We do not have the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses. Services have been recovering post covid, with additional investment to reduce waiting lists. Delivery of care is provided by diabetes specialist multidisciplinary teams, with patients in higher risk groups prioritised for review first. However, waiting lists remain long, with limited specialist workforce.\n\nAn integrated response is required for an increasing population presenting with multi-morbidities, utilising all existing assets across workforce, infrastructure, technology, finance and Community Voluntary Sector.\n\nWorking with key stakeholders, a Regional Integrated Pathway for Diabetes has been defined over the last two years. This Regional Pathway has been developed in line with the Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016). It will standardise access and provide equity across Northern Ireland, through the integration of diabetes services, supporting treatment and care now and in the future.\n\nA Diabetes Programme of Care Workforce Review is near completion, led by the Department of Health Workforce Policy Directorate. This review included diabetes specialist nurses as well as other specialist health care professions directly involved in the delivery of diabetes treatment and care. This 10-year forward view will inform workforce planning needs to ensure equitable access to specialist diabetes professionals across Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe, effective and quality service for people living with diabetes.\n\nThe Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016) included an action to participate in National Diabetes Audit, similar to the Diabetes Audit used in England and Wales.\n\nThe Department of Health remains committed to working towards participation in the National Diabetes Audit. However, there have been significant challenges in progressing this recommendation, as the required infrastructure is not currently in place to participate fully in the audit.\n\nWith the full implementation of Encompass, currently being rolled out across all Health and Social Care Trusts, the provision of data that is both available and extractable for the region will be available. This will support participation in the National Diabetes Audit in the future.","answerHtml":"National Institute for Health and Care Excellence TA943, Hybrid closed loop systems for managing blood glucose levels in Type 1 diabetes, has been endorsed as applicable in Northern Ireland. Subsequently, my Department has requested work to be undertaken to understand the implications of this decision. Overall provision; priority groups; system costs; workforce and communication requirements to both enable and support, are being considered. Given the scale of investment needed, financial requirements are also being considered, as funding is required for devices as well as resources to upskill and recruit the workforce needed to offer Hybrid Closed Loop safely, effectively and equitably across the region. Final decision-making and commissioning arrangements for NI will be made, supported by an implementation plan. This will support the integration continuous glucose monitoring technologies into diabetes care and will be communicated to all stakeholders.
Diabetes affects nearly 112,000 people in NI, with the number growing. We do not have the proportion of those living with diabetes in Northern Ireland that are not receiving annual check-ups or tests relating to secondary illnesses. Services have been recovering post covid, with additional investment to reduce waiting lists. Delivery of care is provided by diabetes specialist multidisciplinary teams, with patients in higher risk groups prioritised for review first. However, waiting lists remain long, with limited specialist workforce.
An integrated response is required for an increasing population presenting with multi-morbidities, utilising all existing assets across workforce, infrastructure, technology, finance and Community Voluntary Sector.
Working with key stakeholders, a Regional Integrated Pathway for Diabetes has been defined over the last two years. This Regional Pathway has been developed in line with the Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016). It will standardise access and provide equity across Northern Ireland, through the integration of diabetes services, supporting treatment and care now and in the future.
A Diabetes Programme of Care Workforce Review is near completion, led by the Department of Health Workforce Policy Directorate. This review included diabetes specialist nurses as well as other specialist health care professions directly involved in the delivery of diabetes treatment and care. This 10-year forward view will inform workforce planning needs to ensure equitable access to specialist diabetes professionals across Northern Ireland, in order to provide a safe, effective and quality service for people living with diabetes.
The Diabetes Strategic Framework (2016) included an action to participate in National Diabetes Audit, similar to the Diabetes Audit used in England and Wales.
The Department of Health remains committed to working towards participation in the National Diabetes Audit. However, there have been significant challenges in progressing this recommendation, as the required infrastructure is not currently in place to participate fully in the audit.
With the full implementation of Encompass, currently being rolled out across all Health and Social Care Trusts, the provision of data that is both available and extractable for the region will be available. This will support participation in the National Diabetes Audit in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018341%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418109"}},{"id":"418108","reference":"AQW 18340/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-18","answerBy":"2024-12-03","answered":"2024-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on actions being undertaken by his Department to address the significant delays in the planning process, including within his own Department.","answerText":"It was worth noting, over 98% of all planning applications are dealt with by Councils which are sovereign democratic authorities .\n\nI am committed to ensuring that the planning system in the North operates in an efficient and effective way. My Department, working in collaboration with local councils through the Planning Improvement Programme, has delivered important changes (including fee uplifts, reviews and consultations on policy and procedures, development of legislation and ongoing work on the statutory consultation process) all of which will continue to improve the system’s efficiency and effectiveness.\n\nMy Department has also made a bid to the Interim Public Sector Transformation Board to support the role of statutory consultees within my Department and to appoint persons to undertake ‘hear and report’ work that the Planning Appeals Commission has been unable to progress. I am hopeful that this bid will ultimately be successful and will assist in increasing the efficiency of the system.\n\nI want to build on the positive work that has been taken forward to date and my officials have commenced a series of face-to-face meetings with all planning authorities (including my own Department) which will focus on identifying challenges in current practice and procedure; and inform opportunities for support, shared learning and best practice, with the ultimate aim of improving performance.\n\nPlanning is a collective issue and all stakeholders, including my Department, must play their part in delivering the necessary changes and improvements.","answerHtml":"It was worth noting, over 98% of all planning applications are dealt with by Councils which are sovereign democratic authorities .
I am committed to ensuring that the planning system in the North operates in an efficient and effective way. My Department, working in collaboration with local councils through the Planning Improvement Programme, has delivered important changes (including fee uplifts, reviews and consultations on policy and procedures, development of legislation and ongoing work on the statutory consultation process) all of which will continue to improve the system’s efficiency and effectiveness.
My Department has also made a bid to the Interim Public Sector Transformation Board to support the role of statutory consultees within my Department and to appoint persons to undertake ‘hear and report’ work that the Planning Appeals Commission has been unable to progress. I am hopeful that this bid will ultimately be successful and will assist in increasing the efficiency of the system.
I want to build on the positive work that has been taken forward to date and my officials have commenced a series of face-to-face meetings with all planning authorities (including my own Department) which will focus on identifying challenges in current practice and procedure; and inform opportunities for support, shared learning and best practice, with the ultimate aim of improving performance.
Planning is a collective issue and all stakeholders, including my Department, must play their part in delivering the necessary changes and improvements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018340%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418108"}},{"id":"418947","reference":"AQO 1173/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-14","answerBy":"2024-11-25","answered":"2024-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide an update on the consultation for the Draft Programme for Government 2024-2027.","answerText":"Consultation on the draft Programme for Government closed on Monday 4th November. In total 1,375 responses have been received. Work is now ongoing to analyse all responses received and produce a consultation report for consideration by the Executive. Once this has been considered, we will finalise the Programme for Government and bring it to the Assembly for cross-community approval.","answerHtml":"Consultation on the draft Programme for Government closed on Monday 4th November. In total 1,375 responses have been received. Work is now ongoing to analyse all responses received and produce a consultation report for consideration by the Executive. Once this has been considered, we will finalise the Programme for Government and bring it to the Assembly for cross-community approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418947"}},{"id":"418239","reference":"AQO 1153/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-07","answerBy":"2024-11-18","answered":"2024-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline reasons for delays in considering contentious planning applications.","answerText":"The member will be aware that local councils are responsible for processing over 99% of planning applications, this includes local and major planning applications.\n\nPlanning can be controversial and complex and each planning application is assessed on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with Section 45 of the 2011 Act, regard is to be had to the local development plan so far as material to the application, and to any other material planning considerations including objections and concerns from third parties and statutory consultees; it is right and important issues raised by them are carefully reviewed and considered.\n\nWithin my Department we encourage applicants to engage in Pre Application Discussions (PAD) and we use our legislation powers to expand the consultation and notification around Pre Application Community Consultation (PACC) procedures to ensure issues, which may be contentious, are identified in advance of applications, on appropriate sites, being submitted. Recommendations on applications are made as expeditiously as possible and through review of environmental information, applicants are advised of deficiencies at the earliest opportunity to avoid subsequent delays.\n\nThere are a number of reasons why the processing time of an application can vary, and sometimes, it is linked to the quality of the submission. The recent changes to the Planning (General Development Procedure) Order (NI) 2015, to introduce statutory validation checklists for councils, are designed to improve planning performance with better quality applications entering the system, resulting in shorter processing times, more efficient consultee responses and quicker planning decisions.\n\nI am committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way. The Planning Improvement Programme is progressing, working closely with local government and partners, to improve current processes and the performance and delivery of the system. This wide-ranging improvement programme has already delivered important changes, including fee uplifts; consultations on policy and procedures and the development of legislation, all of which will continue to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our planning system.\n\nI want to build on the positive work that has been taken forward to date and have asked my officials to arrange a series of meetings with Councils with a specific focus on improving performance; identifying challenges; recognising success and promoting key learning across the system.\n\nPlanning is a collective issue, and all stakeholders must play their part in delivering the necessary changes and improvements, including local councils who have responsibility for a significant number of planning functions.\n\nWithin my Department, steps have already been taken to increase staffing, mitigate and address performance of consultees. I am pleased during 2023/24 the proportion of statutory consultations responded to on-time (within 21 calendar days or longer agreed timeframe) was 74%, this rate improved from the 72% recorded on time in 2022/23.\n\nBut there is more to do. To help achieve this much needed improvement, the whole system and key parties to delivering the process must be properly funded and resourced in terms of capacity and capability. I am delighted the ‘Transforming Planning’ bid to the Interim Public Sector Transformation Board has made it to Stage 2 of the process. This bid includes proposals to support and enhance the role of my Department’s Statutory Consultees and to appoint persons to undertake hear and report work that the PAC has been unable to progress. I am hopeful that this bid will ultimately be successful.","answerHtml":"The member will be aware that local councils are responsible for processing over 99% of planning applications, this includes local and major planning applications.
Planning can be controversial and complex and each planning application is assessed on a case-by-case basis, in accordance with Section 45 of the 2011 Act, regard is to be had to the local development plan so far as material to the application, and to any other material planning considerations including objections and concerns from third parties and statutory consultees; it is right and important issues raised by them are carefully reviewed and considered.
Within my Department we encourage applicants to engage in Pre Application Discussions (PAD) and we use our legislation powers to expand the consultation and notification around Pre Application Community Consultation (PACC) procedures to ensure issues, which may be contentious, are identified in advance of applications, on appropriate sites, being submitted. Recommendations on applications are made as expeditiously as possible and through review of environmental information, applicants are advised of deficiencies at the earliest opportunity to avoid subsequent delays.
There are a number of reasons why the processing time of an application can vary, and sometimes, it is linked to the quality of the submission. The recent changes to the Planning (General Development Procedure) Order (NI) 2015, to introduce statutory validation checklists for councils, are designed to improve planning performance with better quality applications entering the system, resulting in shorter processing times, more efficient consultee responses and quicker planning decisions.
I am committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way. The Planning Improvement Programme is progressing, working closely with local government and partners, to improve current processes and the performance and delivery of the system. This wide-ranging improvement programme has already delivered important changes, including fee uplifts; consultations on policy and procedures and the development of legislation, all of which will continue to improve the overall efficiency and effectiveness of our planning system.
I want to build on the positive work that has been taken forward to date and have asked my officials to arrange a series of meetings with Councils with a specific focus on improving performance; identifying challenges; recognising success and promoting key learning across the system.
Planning is a collective issue, and all stakeholders must play their part in delivering the necessary changes and improvements, including local councils who have responsibility for a significant number of planning functions.
Within my Department, steps have already been taken to increase staffing, mitigate and address performance of consultees. I am pleased during 2023/24 the proportion of statutory consultations responded to on-time (within 21 calendar days or longer agreed timeframe) was 74%, this rate improved from the 72% recorded on time in 2022/23.
But there is more to do. To help achieve this much needed improvement, the whole system and key parties to delivering the process must be properly funded and resourced in terms of capacity and capability. I am delighted the ‘Transforming Planning’ bid to the Interim Public Sector Transformation Board has made it to Stage 2 of the process. This bid includes proposals to support and enhance the role of my Department’s Statutory Consultees and to appoint persons to undertake hear and report work that the PAC has been unable to progress. I am hopeful that this bid will ultimately be successful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201153%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=418239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=418239"}},{"id":"416471","reference":"AQW 17614/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what training exists for everyone involved within court processes, including lawyers and judges, to ensure that any attempts by abusers to manipulate legal systems are recognised and prevented.","answerText":"A range of training is available to staff across the criminal justice system to help them better understand the impact of domestic abuse and how best to meet the needs of victims. An annual training statement, setting out information about the level of training undertaken in relation to domestic abuse is published annually and available on my Department’s website at; https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/training-statement-domestic-abuse-offence\n\nAs you will be aware, the judiciary are independent, including with respect to training and I am bound to respect that independence. The Lady Chief Justice has statutory responsibility for the provision of training for the independent judiciary. However, my Department is committed to sharing training and awareness-raising resources that have been developed by and for our justice partners with the judiciary, where that is appropriate and helpful.\n\nAlthough my Department is not responsible for training of the legal profession, I understand that both the Law Society and the Bar have arranged training on domestic abuse and coercive control to assist their members in cases involving a victim of domestic abuse.","answerHtml":"A range of training is available to staff across the criminal justice system to help them better understand the impact of domestic abuse and how best to meet the needs of victims. An annual training statement, setting out information about the level of training undertaken in relation to domestic abuse is published annually and available on my Department’s website at; https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/training-statement-domestic-abuse-offence
As you will be aware, the judiciary are independent, including with respect to training and I am bound to respect that independence. The Lady Chief Justice has statutory responsibility for the provision of training for the independent judiciary. However, my Department is committed to sharing training and awareness-raising resources that have been developed by and for our justice partners with the judiciary, where that is appropriate and helpful.
Although my Department is not responsible for training of the legal profession, I understand that both the Law Society and the Bar have arranged training on domestic abuse and coercive control to assist their members in cases involving a victim of domestic abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017614%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416471"}},{"id":"416470","reference":"AQW 17613/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has considered (i) a dedicated emergency response hotline; (ii) safe zones where women can find immediate help; (iii) a public awareness campaign and community engagement; (iv) an increase to funding and logistical support for local women’s groups and shelters to provide immediate assistance; and (v) other immediate responses, regarding the recent sexually motivated attacks in the Derry City and Strabane District Council area.","answerText":"I strongly condemn the recent attacks in the Derry City and Strabane District, women and girls have a right to live without fear or intimidation. In cases of immediate danger the advice is to call 999. The 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) helpline is also available to connect victims with essential support services.\n\nDerry City & Strabane District Council’s Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) responded swiftly with a Special Council Meeting which has led to increased Community Safety Warden patrols, and attendance at the recent Women’s Safety rally, where personal alarms and other safety resources were distributed.\n\nOther relevant initiatives that the PCSP has supported include the provision of funding for Foyle Women’s Aid and support for the delivery healthy relationship education in local schools. The PCSP also supports vulnerable women through the provision of safety packs, security equipment referrals, and CCTV support for high-risk victims, in partnership with the PSNI. In addition, the PCSP also collaborates with Neighbourhood Watch to promote personal safety and provides items like wrist alarms.\n\nI am also aware that the PSNI, has increased visibility in the area through foot, bike, and drone patrols . PSNI is also taking forward implementation of its “Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls” action plan, which I understand includes community outreach and “Safe Zone” considerations.\n\nFunding is currently available from my Department, both through Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) and through the Asset Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) for a range of projects which aim to tackle domestic and sexual abuse. These projects provide a selection of crime prevention equipment, which includes personal alarms.\n\nMy department is also partnering with The Executive Office (TEO) and PSNI on the “Power to Change” campaign, which seeks to challenge societal acceptance of behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence, promoting zero tolerance toward actions that facilitate violence against women and girls.","answerHtml":"I strongly condemn the recent attacks in the Derry City and Strabane District, women and girls have a right to live without fear or intimidation. In cases of immediate danger the advice is to call 999. The 24-hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse (DSA) helpline is also available to connect victims with essential support services.
Derry City & Strabane District Council’s Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) responded swiftly with a Special Council Meeting which has led to increased Community Safety Warden patrols, and attendance at the recent Women’s Safety rally, where personal alarms and other safety resources were distributed.
Other relevant initiatives that the PCSP has supported include the provision of funding for Foyle Women’s Aid and support for the delivery healthy relationship education in local schools. The PCSP also supports vulnerable women through the provision of safety packs, security equipment referrals, and CCTV support for high-risk victims, in partnership with the PSNI. In addition, the PCSP also collaborates with Neighbourhood Watch to promote personal safety and provides items like wrist alarms.
I am also aware that the PSNI, has increased visibility in the area through foot, bike, and drone patrols . PSNI is also taking forward implementation of its “Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls” action plan, which I understand includes community outreach and “Safe Zone” considerations.
Funding is currently available from my Department, both through Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) and through the Asset Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) for a range of projects which aim to tackle domestic and sexual abuse. These projects provide a selection of crime prevention equipment, which includes personal alarms.
My department is also partnering with The Executive Office (TEO) and PSNI on the “Power to Change” campaign, which seeks to challenge societal acceptance of behaviours that contribute to gender-based violence, promoting zero tolerance toward actions that facilitate violence against women and girls.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017613%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416470","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416470"}},{"id":"416469","reference":"AQW 17612/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether she has any plans to include domestic abuse in financial remedies through divorce proceedings to recognise the profound impact on victims.","answerText":"Plans for legislation to amend the substantive law of divorce and dissolution are at an early stage. A review of divorce law in other jurisdictions was recently completed and officials now plan to meet with key local stakeholders who can make a useful contribution to developing policy proposals. It is intended that this initial work will provide the basis for a full public consultation in 2025 leading to the consideration of future divorce legislation that best meets the needs of those who wish to end their marriage or civil partnership, including those in abusive relationships.\n\nWhile this work will focus on the substantive law, the wider process of divorce and dissolution, including the financial settlement, will be considered where directly relevant. The courts here have recently considered the division of assets in ancillary relief proceedings where a party to the marriage had been a victim of domestic abuse and made an award to reflect the physical and emotional effect on the victim. Officials will keep any further judicial developments in view.\n\nI am determined that, in keeping with the Programme for Government commitment to ending violence against women and girls, any reforms to current divorce legislation will be effected in a manner that takes account of victims of domestic violence.","answerHtml":"Plans for legislation to amend the substantive law of divorce and dissolution are at an early stage. A review of divorce law in other jurisdictions was recently completed and officials now plan to meet with key local stakeholders who can make a useful contribution to developing policy proposals. It is intended that this initial work will provide the basis for a full public consultation in 2025 leading to the consideration of future divorce legislation that best meets the needs of those who wish to end their marriage or civil partnership, including those in abusive relationships.
While this work will focus on the substantive law, the wider process of divorce and dissolution, including the financial settlement, will be considered where directly relevant. The courts here have recently considered the division of assets in ancillary relief proceedings where a party to the marriage had been a victim of domestic abuse and made an award to reflect the physical and emotional effect on the victim. Officials will keep any further judicial developments in view.
I am determined that, in keeping with the Programme for Government commitment to ending violence against women and girls, any reforms to current divorce legislation will be effected in a manner that takes account of victims of domestic violence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017612%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416469","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416469"}},{"id":"416468","reference":"AQW 17611/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline how the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 has prevented misuse of legal processes since its commencement.","answerText":"The Domestic and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 (the Act) makes provision for a range of safeguards to mitigate against the risk of an abuser using the criminal justice process to further exert control and influence over their victim. These provisions are intended to minimise the trauma for the victim while ensuring that the proper administration of justice is achieved.\n\nExamples of these measures include:\n\na provision under section 1 of the Act to prevent the accused from electing for trial by jury at Crown Court, in summary proceedings, in relation to the domestic abuse offence;\n\nsection 24 of the Act prohibits an accused person from cross-examining a partner or connected person in person, where they are to give evidence. This provision applies in relation to the domestic abuse offence under section 1 of the Act, as well as to any other offence (for example, criminal damage, assault, grievous bodily harm, threats to damage property or threats to kill, etc.) where there is a specification that it is aggravated by reason of involving domestic abuse (under section 15 of the Act); and\n\nunder section 23 (c) of the Act, complainants in cases involving the domestic abuse offence, or an aggravated offence, are also automatically eligible for consideration of special measures when giving evidence, which could include the use of live links, remote evidence centres or screens.\n\nThe Act also makes provision to enhance the protection available to victims of domestic abuse who are giving evidence in family proceedings; examples include:\n\ncourt rules, which came into operation in November 2022 and which make specific provision in relation to special measures. Again, this could include giving evidence from behind a screen, via a remote evidence centre or by live link;\n\nsection 28 of the Act introduced a legal aid waiver allowing victims of domestic abuse access to justice when responding to children proceedings brought by their abusers, often employed as a means to further that abuse. Under this measure, if they can provide appropriate evidence of the abuse, and that the perpetrator is the one who is bringing the proceedings, this allows them to apply for legal aid without reference to their means. My Department has been working to ensure that the number of organisations who can provide this information is as wide as possible and is currently exploring options of how it supports victims of domestic abuse more effectively, including efforts to increase awareness and uptake of the waiver, as part of the foundational review of civil legal services\n\nMy Department intends to publish a report in early 2025 that will include information on the amount of cases that have proceeded though the court since the Act’s introduction. The report will also include the views of service providers who have assisted victims and witnesses during the proceedings.","answerHtml":"The Domestic and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 (the Act) makes provision for a range of safeguards to mitigate against the risk of an abuser using the criminal justice process to further exert control and influence over their victim. These provisions are intended to minimise the trauma for the victim while ensuring that the proper administration of justice is achieved.
Examples of these measures include:
a provision under section 1 of the Act to prevent the accused from electing for trial by jury at Crown Court, in summary proceedings, in relation to the domestic abuse offence;
section 24 of the Act prohibits an accused person from cross-examining a partner or connected person in person, where they are to give evidence. This provision applies in relation to the domestic abuse offence under section 1 of the Act, as well as to any other offence (for example, criminal damage, assault, grievous bodily harm, threats to damage property or threats to kill, etc.) where there is a specification that it is aggravated by reason of involving domestic abuse (under section 15 of the Act); and
under section 23 (c) of the Act, complainants in cases involving the domestic abuse offence, or an aggravated offence, are also automatically eligible for consideration of special measures when giving evidence, which could include the use of live links, remote evidence centres or screens.
The Act also makes provision to enhance the protection available to victims of domestic abuse who are giving evidence in family proceedings; examples include:
court rules, which came into operation in November 2022 and which make specific provision in relation to special measures. Again, this could include giving evidence from behind a screen, via a remote evidence centre or by live link;
section 28 of the Act introduced a legal aid waiver allowing victims of domestic abuse access to justice when responding to children proceedings brought by their abusers, often employed as a means to further that abuse. Under this measure, if they can provide appropriate evidence of the abuse, and that the perpetrator is the one who is bringing the proceedings, this allows them to apply for legal aid without reference to their means. My Department has been working to ensure that the number of organisations who can provide this information is as wide as possible and is currently exploring options of how it supports victims of domestic abuse more effectively, including efforts to increase awareness and uptake of the waiver, as part of the foundational review of civil legal services
My Department intends to publish a report in early 2025 that will include information on the amount of cases that have proceeded though the court since the Act’s introduction. The report will also include the views of service providers who have assisted victims and witnesses during the proceedings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017611%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416468","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416468"}},{"id":"416467","reference":"AQW 17610/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-05","answerBy":"2024-11-20","answered":"2024-11-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail which debts which are given priority over child maintenance payments; and (ii) whether he has any plans to enhance the priority of child maintenance payments to ensure the welfare of the child.","answerText":"The debts that are prioritised before child maintenance deductions are taken include: housing costs, rent and/or service charges, gas and electricity arrears, rates arrears, water charges and fines or compensation orders.\n\nThe Department for Work and Pensions has recently announced that child maintenance deductions will now be moved up the priority order before repayments of Universal Credit Advances. This change is at a very early stage.\n\nMy officials will continue to engage with the Department for Work and Pensions on the implementation timeline.","answerHtml":"The debts that are prioritised before child maintenance deductions are taken include: housing costs, rent and/or service charges, gas and electricity arrears, rates arrears, water charges and fines or compensation orders.
The Department for Work and Pensions has recently announced that child maintenance deductions will now be moved up the priority order before repayments of Universal Credit Advances. This change is at a very early stage.
My officials will continue to engage with the Department for Work and Pensions on the implementation timeline.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017610%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416467","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416467"}},{"id":"416195","reference":"AQW 17493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he has any plans to introduce a scheme to repair roads, used by the public, which have fallen into disrepair and pose a threat to safety, where an owner cannot be ascertained and where closing the road would create a negative impact on the surrounding infrastructure.","answerText":"My Department has no responsibility for roads that have not been adopted into the public road network and any proposal to introduce a scheme to repair unadopted roads would require funding to be diverted from the repair of the adopted road network, for which my Department has legal responsibility. Additionally, this would lead to a permanent liability for all defects on those roads my Department repaired but are not part of the adopted network.\n\nThere are processes whereby my Department can adopt a private road into the public road network, however they require the road to be brought to an adoptable standard prior to the adoption with costs borne by those wishing to have the road adopted.","answerHtml":"My Department has no responsibility for roads that have not been adopted into the public road network and any proposal to introduce a scheme to repair unadopted roads would require funding to be diverted from the repair of the adopted road network, for which my Department has legal responsibility. Additionally, this would lead to a permanent liability for all defects on those roads my Department repaired but are not part of the adopted network.
There are processes whereby my Department can adopt a private road into the public road network, however they require the road to be brought to an adoptable standard prior to the adoption with costs borne by those wishing to have the road adopted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416195"}},{"id":"416194","reference":"AQW 17492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how he is improving early detection of lung cancer; (ii) whether he plans to expand screening programs to facilitate earlier diagnosis and treatment; and (iii) how his Department is increasing public awareness of lung cancer symptoms, particularly among high-risk groups, to further support early diagnosis and improved outcomes.","answerText":"Improving early detection of lung cancer is about targeted screening of people at high risk who do not have symptoms, along with raising awareness of the symptoms of lung cancer and what to do if these occur.\n\nFormer Minister Swann approved the recommendation from the UK National Screening Committee to introduce a targeted lung cancer screening programme for those aged between 55-74 years old at high risk of disease.\n\nWork is now needed at a regional level to take forward the planning for a targeted lung screening programme (including additional diagnostic and treatment services; and the potential service model) and an assessment of the potential resource implications within the current and future budgetary constraints.\n\nAs well as work to improve early diagnosis my department, along with the Public Health Agency (PHA), has taken forward work to prevent lung cancer. As part of an ongoing programme of communications on smoking the PHA regularly raises awareness of health risks such as lung cancer on PHA social channels, media activity, support materials and website For your health | Stop Smoking.\n\nThe Tobacco and Vapes Bill was introduced to Parliament on 5th November and offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to address the extensive harms caused by smoking, which include lung cancer.","answerHtml":"Improving early detection of lung cancer is about targeted screening of people at high risk who do not have symptoms, along with raising awareness of the symptoms of lung cancer and what to do if these occur.
Former Minister Swann approved the recommendation from the UK National Screening Committee to introduce a targeted lung cancer screening programme for those aged between 55-74 years old at high risk of disease.
Work is now needed at a regional level to take forward the planning for a targeted lung screening programme (including additional diagnostic and treatment services; and the potential service model) and an assessment of the potential resource implications within the current and future budgetary constraints.
As well as work to improve early diagnosis my department, along with the Public Health Agency (PHA), has taken forward work to prevent lung cancer. As part of an ongoing programme of communications on smoking the PHA regularly raises awareness of health risks such as lung cancer on PHA social channels, media activity, support materials and website For your health | Stop Smoking.
The Tobacco and Vapes Bill was introduced to Parliament on 5th November and offers a once in a lifetime opportunity to address the extensive harms caused by smoking, which include lung cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416194"}},{"id":"416193","reference":"AQW 17491/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, further to the UK Government’s commitment to fund Growth Deals for Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Mid South West Region, to detail how she is supporting the projects to progress.","answerText":"The lifting of the pause on the two Growth Deals was very welcome news. I am delighted that all four Deals can now get on with developing and delivering the range of exciting and transformative projects across the North for the benefits of our citizens, businesses and visitors.\n\nCity and Growth Deals are an Executive priority, and I have had the pleasure of meeting with all Deal representatives and visiting some of the project sites, ensuring that partners are supported in the projects. I have attended a series of different events and continue to positively influence and champion for all four Deals and their projects.\n\nI receive regular briefings on the initiative, with which I, in turn, share with Executive colleagues and the Finance committee to ensure timely updates are provided on progress and developments, as well as any relevant arising issues.\n\nKey decisions required of the Executive in relation to City and Growth Deals are brought by me through Executive papers and recommendations. These include funding decisions and relevant approvals.\n\nIn addition, my Department has an oversight role for the City and Growth Deals initiative. The Department of Finance Permanent Secretary is the Senior Responsible Owner for NICS and there is a dedicated division with the Department to oversee the governance and funding. This team engages on a regular basis with Deals, Councils, Departments, the British Government and a range of other stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration and partnership, implementing consistent policies and approaches and help drive overall progress.\n\nMy Department is also involved in the business case approvals process to ensure value for money. Construction and Procurement Delivery within my Department assists Accountable Departments involved in the City and Growth Deal projects to ensure value for money in public procurement.\n\nSeveral other Departments are directly involved in the initiative, being accountable for the funding to projects within their policy remit. City and Growth Deals is an excellent example of partnership and collaboration to ensure the many projects across the four Deals are successful.","answerHtml":"The lifting of the pause on the two Growth Deals was very welcome news. I am delighted that all four Deals can now get on with developing and delivering the range of exciting and transformative projects across the North for the benefits of our citizens, businesses and visitors.
City and Growth Deals are an Executive priority, and I have had the pleasure of meeting with all Deal representatives and visiting some of the project sites, ensuring that partners are supported in the projects. I have attended a series of different events and continue to positively influence and champion for all four Deals and their projects.
I receive regular briefings on the initiative, with which I, in turn, share with Executive colleagues and the Finance committee to ensure timely updates are provided on progress and developments, as well as any relevant arising issues.
Key decisions required of the Executive in relation to City and Growth Deals are brought by me through Executive papers and recommendations. These include funding decisions and relevant approvals.
In addition, my Department has an oversight role for the City and Growth Deals initiative. The Department of Finance Permanent Secretary is the Senior Responsible Owner for NICS and there is a dedicated division with the Department to oversee the governance and funding. This team engages on a regular basis with Deals, Councils, Departments, the British Government and a range of other stakeholders to ensure effective collaboration and partnership, implementing consistent policies and approaches and help drive overall progress.
My Department is also involved in the business case approvals process to ensure value for money. Construction and Procurement Delivery within my Department assists Accountable Departments involved in the City and Growth Deal projects to ensure value for money in public procurement.
Several other Departments are directly involved in the initiative, being accountable for the funding to projects within their policy remit. City and Growth Deals is an excellent example of partnership and collaboration to ensure the many projects across the four Deals are successful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017491%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416193","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416193"}},{"id":"416192","reference":"AQW 17490/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether she plans to align business rates relief with the changes announced for GB business rates in the HM Treasury Autumn Budget 2024, to offset the National Insurance increase for employers.","answerText":"There is no policy linkage between those two measures. National Insurance contribution increases are a reserved matter and business rates are a devolved matter. One is not intended to offset fluctuations in the other.\n\nThe reduction in Retail, Hospitality and Leisure support in England from 75% to 40%, meaning the cost of support is lower in 2025-26. The Executive has received a reduction of £58.2 million in 2025-26 in relation business rates. The reduction announced by the Chancellor, confirms the affordability issues that I have consistently alluded to with that business rates scheme. Those affordability issues were exacerbated greatly when implanted into our local taxbase and economy, heavily comprised as it is of SMEs.\n\nMy department will be assessing the details and implications of the policy announcements in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget Statement and the Transforming business rates paper published by Treasury following that Statement.\n\nFurther work will then be progressed in this area once the Executive finishes considering my proposals in relation to the strategic short, medium and long-term steps for the rating system.","answerHtml":"There is no policy linkage between those two measures. National Insurance contribution increases are a reserved matter and business rates are a devolved matter. One is not intended to offset fluctuations in the other.
The reduction in Retail, Hospitality and Leisure support in England from 75% to 40%, meaning the cost of support is lower in 2025-26. The Executive has received a reduction of £58.2 million in 2025-26 in relation business rates. The reduction announced by the Chancellor, confirms the affordability issues that I have consistently alluded to with that business rates scheme. Those affordability issues were exacerbated greatly when implanted into our local taxbase and economy, heavily comprised as it is of SMEs.
My department will be assessing the details and implications of the policy announcements in the Chancellor’s Autumn Budget Statement and the Transforming business rates paper published by Treasury following that Statement.
Further work will then be progressed in this area once the Executive finishes considering my proposals in relation to the strategic short, medium and long-term steps for the rating system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017490%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416192"}},{"id":"416191","reference":"AQW 17489/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-11-04","answerBy":"2024-11-19","answered":"2024-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the HM Treasury Autumn Budget 2024 on businesses in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The impact of the Budget will affect local businesses in a variety of ways, though the nature of that will depend upon the characteristics of each individual business, including its size, which sector it operates in and how it chooses to manage new arrangements around.\n\nThere are welcome benefits for workers as a result of the increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage. However rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget increases employer National Insurance contributions. At a time of high costs on businesses this will put many businesses under more strain.\n\nMy officials and I will continue to engage with local business stakeholders and consider the full detail of the announcements, as well as the possible implications for the North’s economy, in the context of my economic plan.","answerHtml":"The impact of the Budget will affect local businesses in a variety of ways, though the nature of that will depend upon the characteristics of each individual business, including its size, which sector it operates in and how it chooses to manage new arrangements around.
There are welcome benefits for workers as a result of the increases in the National Living Wage and National Minimum Wage. However rather than offsetting this increase in pay with a decrease in taxes, the Budget increases employer National Insurance contributions. At a time of high costs on businesses this will put many businesses under more strain.
My officials and I will continue to engage with local business stakeholders and consider the full detail of the announcements, as well as the possible implications for the North’s economy, in the context of my economic plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017489%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=416191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=416191"}},{"id":"415648","reference":"AQO 1097/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-24","answerBy":"2024-11-11","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide an update on plans to support childcare for school-age children.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"When I took up post in February, I realised that urgent action was needed to make childcare more affordable. I secured an additional £25 million of Executive funding in May to implement a package of measures in this financial year that are already making a real difference to thousands of children and families across Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland childcare subsidy scheme, which came into operation in September of this year, is one element of that package. Parents now benefit every month from the scheme's 15% subsidy. The scheme is currently focused on working parents who are eligible for tax-free childcare and have children below primary school age. We prioritised that group because they typically face the highest costs due to their requirement for more childcare hours. This is also the period when mothers make decisions about returning to employment following maternity leave, and the high cost of childcare can be a significant barrier. Uptake of the scheme has exceeded our expectations, with nearly 13,300 children and 1,550 providers registered and £2 million in savings delivered for families in September and October. When combined with the tax-free childcare, those parents will have saved over £4 million in total. Having listened to both parents and providers, it is my intention to bid for the funding required to sustain the scheme beyond the end of March 2025 and, indeed, until a longer-term strategy is in place. I appreciate that there have also been calls to increase the level of the subsidy and to extend it to others, such as parents with school-age children. I will consider those options over the coming months. The scheme is set up in such a way that we can easily expand it, if there is a case to do so and the required funding is made available by the Executive. I will bring forward recommendations in due course."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister. The work that he has done in this area is very much appreciated, and many parents are grateful for the support. However, there are parents who have children of school age who are not necessarily getting that support. There is much that we can do with breakfast clubs and after-school clubs, which, with the Minister's support, could extend that type of childcare."},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"The Member is right to raise the issue of helping to support school-age children. I alluded to that in the original response. The reason we focused on preschool-age children is that that is typically the period when families face the highest childcare costs. It is in that period that mothers are transitioning back to work following maternity leave. The initial focus was on that category of children not only because of childcare costs but because the early years are critical to the educational value that an early learning childcare strategy needs to have. That has been the focus. We have developed many other aspects of the scheme. Prioritising children of preschool age is, I think, justified, but I very much agree with the Member. I want to do more, and I have every intention of making proposals to do more. I hope that Executive colleagues will support me to provide the necessary resources."},{"speaker":"Mrs Mason","text":"Minister, the community and voluntary sector provides first-class care for children of school age with breakfast clubs and after-school clubs. Unfortunately, we do not have enough of them. What plans do you have to further support and stabilise that sector, specifically in respect of staff and attracting new workers to the sector?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"Childcare providers are in a private marketplace. How would that be regulated? How would you do it? I am picking up something that another Member asked about how you would provide a scheme to support the pay and the terms and conditions of the people involved in after-school clubs and so on. One of the proposals in the early years childcare strategy is to identify whether there is a need to support businesses where there could be a critical failure in the marketplace. The Department for the Economy leads on that. I am supporting it in identifying whether there are measures that we need to take forward around supporting businesses and employment practices. I hope that that work can be completed before the end of the financial year to help inform the outworkings of the strategy."},{"speaker":"Mr Martin","text":"In light of the Budget the week before last and the changes to employers' National Insurance contributions and the minimum wage, is the Minister considering additional support for the childcare sector generally?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"Obviously, there has been an impact as a result of the change that has been made through the National Insurance contributions and the minimum wage. Many businesses are raising the issue of how they will meet the additional expenditure that is now required. As we review the outworkings of all of that, we will seek to provide as much support as we can. That is part of the work that the Department for the Economy is looking at in its assessment of employment and helping to meet the need, but that is something for the Department for the Economy to lead on and provide the evidence base. If the Executive want to provide support, that will be a wider Executive decision outwith what I would be able to do in the Department of Education."},{"speaker":"Mrs Guy","text":"I have met many stakeholders in the childcare and early years sectors, and the consensus seems to be that the Department has everything that it needs to produce a childcare strategy. What specifically is holding up the publication of an early learning and childcare strategy?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"The Executive and I, as Minister, wanted to make sure that action was taken, not just words. A strategy is a document that outlines what you want to do. I wanted to do something, and the Executive wanted to do something, hence the focus has been on standing up the childcare subsidy scheme as well as all of the other support that we have put in, for example, to stabilise Sure Start funding that we provided to early years organisations. If I had gone with a strategy first, Members would rightly have asked me when I was going to take action. I have taken action, and the benefit of the approach that I have taken is that 13,300 children and more than 1,500 providers are registered. That all provides us with information and gives us the data that we need around the costs and patterns here, which then informs the strategy. I can advise the Member that, in the past number of weeks, the Department has turned to developing the comprehensive strategy. I have said before that I want this to be brought to the Executive in 2025, and I remain committed to doing that. Initially, we wanted to take action, and now the work on the strategy has started."},{"speaker":"Ms McLaughlin","text":"The general allocation of £170 million for education in the monitoring round is very welcome. Will any of the money go to the provision of 22·5 funded preschool hours a week? If not, how can the Executive deliver on their key priority in the Programme for Government?"},{"speaker":"Mr Givan","text":"I assure the Member that we have already secured the funding to take forward the first tranche of the standardisation programme within the early learning and childcare funding pot. Twenty-five million pounds was allocated to that, and that is allowing us to identify at least 100 settings that, by 1 September next year, should be able to deliver over 2,000 more places moving from part-time provision to full-time provision, which is that 22·5 hours. I have already announced for consultation two tranches that identify the settings on the basis of the criteria that have been used. There is another tranche that needs to be announced to do that. The Executive have already agreed that we are moving towards delivering 22·5 hours of provision in our preschool settings, whether that is statutory or non-statutory. Work is taking place for the first phase of that to start. It will become more challenging, as we need capital funding to increase the physical capacity of some of the premises to fulfil that commitment, but we have started that work."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201097%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415648","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-11-11&docID=416633#AQO%201097/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415648"}},{"id":"415425","reference":"AQW 17266/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the impact on further and higher education in relation to the Independent Review of Education; and (ii) whether any regional colleges and universities have raised concerns in relation to the Minister for Education's statement and the impact to its course numbers.","answerText":"Whilst a full assessment will be required, I expect that several of the recommendations of the Independent Review of Education have the potential to have an impact on further education colleges and higher education institutions, not least the recommendation to raise the age of educational participation from 16 to 18 years.\n\nMy officials have advised in conducting initial discussions with further education college Principals in this regard, Principals have expressed a view of the opportunities this provides for the great utility of colleges and the provision of high quality technical and vocational educational pathways. Concerns have not been raised by universities in relation to the statement made by the Minister of Education.\n\nI look forward to the Minister of Education bringing forward a paper to the Executive and wider discussions be convened on the Independent Review of Education.","answerHtml":"Whilst a full assessment will be required, I expect that several of the recommendations of the Independent Review of Education have the potential to have an impact on further education colleges and higher education institutions, not least the recommendation to raise the age of educational participation from 16 to 18 years.
My officials have advised in conducting initial discussions with further education college Principals in this regard, Principals have expressed a view of the opportunities this provides for the great utility of colleges and the provision of high quality technical and vocational educational pathways. Concerns have not been raised by universities in relation to the statement made by the Minister of Education.
I look forward to the Minister of Education bringing forward a paper to the Executive and wider discussions be convened on the Independent Review of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017266%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415425","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415425"}},{"id":"415424","reference":"AQW 17265/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) whether he has had any discussions with the Minister of Health in relation to the transition of those with special educational needs, post-18 years old; and (ii) the setting in which they can continue to be supported in education and skills.","answerText":"(i) A ‘Transitions Working Group’, jointly chaired by officials from my department and the Department of Health (DoH), has been established and is supported by representatives from the Education Authority (EA), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and officials from the Departments for the Communities (DfC) and the Economy (DfE).\n\nThe aim of the working group is to evaluate current transitions processes and practices, with the aim of identifying improvements to create better ways of working and sharing of information to ensure that there are clear and appropriate pathways to provisions for young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or disabilities across further and higher education, training and employment.\n\nI will continue to work closely with the Minister of Health and other Executive colleagues as this work progresses.\n\n(ii) Currently young people with statements of SEN have access to a number of settings in which they can continue to be supported in education and skills, and this will be agreed as part of their transitions plan. Options will include the EA continuing to maintain a statement of SEN, where there has been one in place, naming a school; progression to a further or higher education setting; a place within a training programme that focuses on fostering independence, social inclusion or skill-building, or directly into employment.","answerHtml":"(i) A ‘Transitions Working Group’, jointly chaired by officials from my department and the Department of Health (DoH), has been established and is supported by representatives from the Education Authority (EA), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and officials from the Departments for the Communities (DfC) and the Economy (DfE).
The aim of the working group is to evaluate current transitions processes and practices, with the aim of identifying improvements to create better ways of working and sharing of information to ensure that there are clear and appropriate pathways to provisions for young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) or disabilities across further and higher education, training and employment.
I will continue to work closely with the Minister of Health and other Executive colleagues as this work progresses.
(ii) Currently young people with statements of SEN have access to a number of settings in which they can continue to be supported in education and skills, and this will be agreed as part of their transitions plan. Options will include the EA continuing to maintain a statement of SEN, where there has been one in place, naming a school; progression to a further or higher education setting; a place within a training programme that focuses on fostering independence, social inclusion or skill-building, or directly into employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017265%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415424"}},{"id":"415423","reference":"AQW 17264/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether he is aware of any issues in the recruitment of further education college lecturers, particularly in courses related to skills shortages.","answerText":"I am aware of issues in lecturer recruitment and following engagement by my officials with the Further Education Colleges, the Colleges have confirmed difficulties recruiting lecturers in Engineering, Electrical Installation and Computing.\n\nWhilst colleges continue to actively advertise, my Department is also working with the colleges on flexing lecturer qualification criteria, where appropriate to alleviate recruitment challenges.","answerHtml":"I am aware of issues in lecturer recruitment and following engagement by my officials with the Further Education Colleges, the Colleges have confirmed difficulties recruiting lecturers in Engineering, Electrical Installation and Computing.
Whilst colleges continue to actively advertise, my Department is also working with the colleges on flexing lecturer qualification criteria, where appropriate to alleviate recruitment challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017264%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415423"}},{"id":"415422","reference":"AQW 17263/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has consulted with further and higher education institutions in relation to his decision to make education compulsory to 18 years old.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy (DfE) is responsible for further and higher education. My officials engaged with DfE in advance of my announcement and there will be further discussion on this proposal between departments and key stakeholders as the detail is developed.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy (DfE) is responsible for further and higher education. My officials engaged with DfE in advance of my announcement and there will be further discussion on this proposal between departments and key stakeholders as the detail is developed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017263%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415422","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415422"}},{"id":"415421","reference":"AQW 17262/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-23","answerBy":"2024-11-07","answered":"2024-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions he had with the Minister of Education before the Minister’s Statement on 22 October 2024 on the Independent Review of Education.","answerText":"I have had one meeting with the Minister for Education in April this year, where we discussed the importance of both our departments working together to ensure that the learner is put at the centre, especially in relation to the Careers service.","answerHtml":"I have had one meeting with the Minister for Education in April this year, where we discussed the importance of both our departments working together to ensure that the learner is put at the centre, especially in relation to the Careers service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017262%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415421","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415421"}},{"id":"415207","reference":"AQW 17149/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-22","answerBy":"2024-11-06","answered":"2024-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) whether she is aware of any concerns in relation to legal representation of victims in court proceedings that involve coercive control; and (ii) how her Department is working with the Law Society to ensure expertise in this area.","answerText":"While concerns relating to legal representation of victims of domestic abuse have occasionally been raised with me, training and professional development is a matter for the profession. I understand that both the Law Society and the Bar have offered training on domestic abuse and coercive control to equip their members in cases involving a victim of domestic abuse.","answerHtml":"While concerns relating to legal representation of victims of domestic abuse have occasionally been raised with me, training and professional development is a matter for the profession. I understand that both the Law Society and the Bar have offered training on domestic abuse and coercive control to equip their members in cases involving a victim of domestic abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017149%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415207"}},{"id":"415206","reference":"AQW 17148/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-22","answerBy":"2024-11-06","answered":"2024-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for a further update on the agreed amalgamation of Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College; and (ii) to confirm the site for the new school.","answerText":"The Education Authority is continuing to work towards achieving a day one solution to enable the new Causeway Academy to operate on a single site from 1 September 2026. This is likely to involve refurbishment and additional accommodation on an existing site, either one of the three existing school sites or the former Coleraine High School site at Lodge Road.\n\nThe feasibility study for September 2026 is well underway and is considering a number of options to enable the school to open on a single site. The subsequent business case will identify the preferred option, and the investment required to implement it.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority is continuing to work towards achieving a day one solution to enable the new Causeway Academy to operate on a single site from 1 September 2026. This is likely to involve refurbishment and additional accommodation on an existing site, either one of the three existing school sites or the former Coleraine High School site at Lodge Road.
The feasibility study for September 2026 is well underway and is considering a number of options to enable the school to open on a single site. The subsequent business case will identify the preferred option, and the investment required to implement it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017148%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415206","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415206"}},{"id":"415205","reference":"AQW 17147/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-22","answerBy":"2024-11-06","answered":"2024-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, further to his oral statement on Maternity and Neonatal Services on 22 October 2024, to provide further detail relating to post-natal support, including post-natal mental health.","answerText":"Initiatives such as the Continuity of Midwifery Carer launched in May 2023 have shown that women who receive continuous care from a midwife have lower intervention rates and better birth experiences. To ensure the full-scale implementation of Continuity of Midwifery Carer, a four phased outcomes-based accountability approach has been created, after initial roll out it is clear that additional funding and resource will be required to ensure this model of care is widely available.\n\nAll Trusts in Northern Ireland offer a midwifery service to women who chose to birth at home. Teams based in the community will support a woman through her pregnancy, providing antenatal care and then going on call when a woman reaches 37 weeks gestation to care for her when she is in labour and birthing. These teams follow care through into the postnatal period.\n\nIn 2021, my predecessor, Minister Swann approved funding to establish a new perinatal mental health service for the region. The first phase in developing this new service was to implement community perinatal mental health teams in all Trusts throughout the region, which would provide specialist services for mothers experiencing mental health issues during the perinatal period. Phase one has now been implemented – each Trust now has a fully operational community perinatal mental health service.\n\nThe second phase was to consider a Mother and Baby Unit (MBU) for the region. In early 2023 my Department commissioned an independent review to make recommendations and provide advice on a suitable model and location for a Mother and Baby Unit, which would best meet the needs of the population. The Department received the final report from the review team in mid-September 2023. It provided recommendations on the preferred service model for the unit, and the location of the Mother and Baby Unit, with the Belfast City Hospital site identified as the most suitable location. At that point, the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust was invited to prepare a business case for the provision of the proposed regional unit.\n\nThe business case for Mother and Baby Unit is well-progressed and it is planned that it will be finalised and submitted to my Department for scrutiny by the end of the year. It should be noted that progression of this project will remain subject to the necessary funding for the unit being identified.","answerHtml":"Initiatives such as the Continuity of Midwifery Carer launched in May 2023 have shown that women who receive continuous care from a midwife have lower intervention rates and better birth experiences. To ensure the full-scale implementation of Continuity of Midwifery Carer, a four phased outcomes-based accountability approach has been created, after initial roll out it is clear that additional funding and resource will be required to ensure this model of care is widely available.
All Trusts in Northern Ireland offer a midwifery service to women who chose to birth at home. Teams based in the community will support a woman through her pregnancy, providing antenatal care and then going on call when a woman reaches 37 weeks gestation to care for her when she is in labour and birthing. These teams follow care through into the postnatal period.
In 2021, my predecessor, Minister Swann approved funding to establish a new perinatal mental health service for the region. The first phase in developing this new service was to implement community perinatal mental health teams in all Trusts throughout the region, which would provide specialist services for mothers experiencing mental health issues during the perinatal period. Phase one has now been implemented – each Trust now has a fully operational community perinatal mental health service.
The second phase was to consider a Mother and Baby Unit (MBU) for the region. In early 2023 my Department commissioned an independent review to make recommendations and provide advice on a suitable model and location for a Mother and Baby Unit, which would best meet the needs of the population. The Department received the final report from the review team in mid-September 2023. It provided recommendations on the preferred service model for the unit, and the location of the Mother and Baby Unit, with the Belfast City Hospital site identified as the most suitable location. At that point, the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust was invited to prepare a business case for the provision of the proposed regional unit.
The business case for Mother and Baby Unit is well-progressed and it is planned that it will be finalised and submitted to my Department for scrutiny by the end of the year. It should be noted that progression of this project will remain subject to the necessary funding for the unit being identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017147%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415205","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415205"}},{"id":"415204","reference":"AQW 17146/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-22","answerBy":"2024-11-06","answered":"2024-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they will engage with the Equality Commission when drafting Department Bills, as per their statutory responsibilities.","answerText":"Executive Office officials engage with a range of stakeholders, including the Equality Commission, when developing policy underpinning Departmental Bills, in line with best practice and statutory requirements.","answerHtml":"Executive Office officials engage with a range of stakeholders, including the Equality Commission, when developing policy underpinning Departmental Bills, in line with best practice and statutory requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017146%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415204"}},{"id":"415203","reference":"AQW 17145/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-22","answerBy":"2024-11-06","answered":"2024-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail their plans to develop a strategy for death, dying and bereavement.","answerText":"Issues of death, dying and bereavement extend far beyond the remit of the Department of Health and would require a cross-Departmental approach.\n\nI am aware of calls for death, dying and bereavement to be included in the Programme for Government, which has recently been subject to consultation. Any future strategy should be considered within the context of the outcome of the consultation and the new Programme for Government.\n\nHowever, I am very aware of the importance of palliative and end of life care in supporting people with palliative care needs to live well and achieve the best quality of life as their illness progresses. I also recognise the importance of information and support for those who are experiencing grief and bereavement.\n\nMy Department is committed to improved palliative care and bereavement support.\n\nThe regional Palliative Care in Partnership Programme, co-led by my Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the Public Health Agency, brings together a wide range of stakeholders across the statutory, independent and voluntary and community sectors, including hospices, as well as service users, to support the development and implementation of services for adults who are living with palliative and end of life care needs and those important to them.\n\nThe Partnership’s workplan priorities for 2023-26 focus on 4 priority areas:\n\nearly identification of and timely intervention for people with palliative care needs;\n\nco-ordination & quality improvement in palliative care services;\n\npalliative care education and training; and\n\na public health approach to palliative care.\n\nThese priorities and associated workstreams will inform and support the Palliative Care in Partnership Programme and its member organisations in taking forward a range of actions to further improve palliative and end of life care for adults.\n\nIn terms of palliative care for children, my Department’s Strategy for Children’s Palliative and End-of-Life Care, published in 2016, sets out 23 objectives across the spectrum of paediatric palliative care from diagnosis through to bereavement care.\n\nThe Regional Paediatric Palliative Care Network (RPPCN) identifies the key priorities for delivery in line with the Strategy and puts in place measures to deliver these. It also acts as a vehicle for the region to identify areas of best practice and share clinical opinion on specific cases.\n\nThe network also ensures there are close working relations across all Trusts and the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice and offers clinical leadership on the strategic delivery of the key objectives within the Strategy.\n\nKey areas taken forward to date include the development of ante-natal care pathways, rapid discharge plans, advanced care plans and agreed pathways regarding pain relief. The RPPCN will continue to review and deliver improvements to paediatric palliative care in NI.\n\nIn terms of bereavement, the Northern Ireland Bereavement Network, which brings together all relevant cross-departmental and community organisations and agencies, has developed the ‘Bereaved NI’ website. The website, which was launched in March 2024, provides easily accessible bereavement information and support to the public at each point of the bereavement journey. It includes information relating to palliative care; pregnancy and baby loss; resources for children and young people; information for people who have been bereaved by suicide and those who have suffered a sudden or traumatic loss; as well as practical support including financial and legal advice.\n\nThe NI Bereavement Network is also progressing work to develop a Bereavement Charter for Adults and a separate Charter for Children and Young People.","answerHtml":"Issues of death, dying and bereavement extend far beyond the remit of the Department of Health and would require a cross-Departmental approach.
I am aware of calls for death, dying and bereavement to be included in the Programme for Government, which has recently been subject to consultation. Any future strategy should be considered within the context of the outcome of the consultation and the new Programme for Government.
However, I am very aware of the importance of palliative and end of life care in supporting people with palliative care needs to live well and achieve the best quality of life as their illness progresses. I also recognise the importance of information and support for those who are experiencing grief and bereavement.
My Department is committed to improved palliative care and bereavement support.
The regional Palliative Care in Partnership Programme, co-led by my Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group and the Public Health Agency, brings together a wide range of stakeholders across the statutory, independent and voluntary and community sectors, including hospices, as well as service users, to support the development and implementation of services for adults who are living with palliative and end of life care needs and those important to them.
The Partnership’s workplan priorities for 2023-26 focus on 4 priority areas:
early identification of and timely intervention for people with palliative care needs;
co-ordination & quality improvement in palliative care services;
palliative care education and training; and
a public health approach to palliative care.
These priorities and associated workstreams will inform and support the Palliative Care in Partnership Programme and its member organisations in taking forward a range of actions to further improve palliative and end of life care for adults.
In terms of palliative care for children, my Department’s Strategy for Children’s Palliative and End-of-Life Care, published in 2016, sets out 23 objectives across the spectrum of paediatric palliative care from diagnosis through to bereavement care.
The Regional Paediatric Palliative Care Network (RPPCN) identifies the key priorities for delivery in line with the Strategy and puts in place measures to deliver these. It also acts as a vehicle for the region to identify areas of best practice and share clinical opinion on specific cases.
The network also ensures there are close working relations across all Trusts and the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice and offers clinical leadership on the strategic delivery of the key objectives within the Strategy.
Key areas taken forward to date include the development of ante-natal care pathways, rapid discharge plans, advanced care plans and agreed pathways regarding pain relief. The RPPCN will continue to review and deliver improvements to paediatric palliative care in NI.
In terms of bereavement, the Northern Ireland Bereavement Network, which brings together all relevant cross-departmental and community organisations and agencies, has developed the ‘Bereaved NI’ website. The website, which was launched in March 2024, provides easily accessible bereavement information and support to the public at each point of the bereavement journey. It includes information relating to palliative care; pregnancy and baby loss; resources for children and young people; information for people who have been bereaved by suicide and those who have suffered a sudden or traumatic loss; as well as practical support including financial and legal advice.
The NI Bereavement Network is also progressing work to develop a Bereavement Charter for Adults and a separate Charter for Children and Young People.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017145%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=415203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=415203"}},{"id":"414985","reference":"AQW 17061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 14277/22-27, to detail (i) the wildlife interventions he is considering in the Bovine TB Eradication Strategy; and (ii) whether he intends to legislate for a badger cull during the 2022-2027 mandate.","answerText":"In October 2023, a judicial review quashed the former Ministers decision on a wildlife intervention approach as part of the Northern Ireland bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) Eradication Strategy. My officials are currently working on possible options for the way forward for my consideration.\n\nThe current review of bTB being undertaken by the Chief Veterinary Officer will also consider the role played by badgers in the spread and endurance of this disease.\n\nAny wildlife policy proposals will be subject to a full public consultation while any decision to implement a wildlife intervention is also likely to require legislation to be made.","answerHtml":"In October 2023, a judicial review quashed the former Ministers decision on a wildlife intervention approach as part of the Northern Ireland bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) Eradication Strategy. My officials are currently working on possible options for the way forward for my consideration.
The current review of bTB being undertaken by the Chief Veterinary Officer will also consider the role played by badgers in the spread and endurance of this disease.
Any wildlife policy proposals will be subject to a full public consultation while any decision to implement a wildlife intervention is also likely to require legislation to be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017061%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414985","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414985"}},{"id":"414984","reference":"AQW 17060/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the increase in badger population in Northern Ireland in the last 20 years; (ii) how this compares with other regions of the UK and Ireland; (iii) how this increase has impacted on other wildlife populations, including hedgehog and bumble bee populations; and (iv) the proportion of the badger population infected with tuberculosis in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"(i) The last survey of badgers in Northern Ireland was in 2007/8, estimating a total population of 34,100 (7,600 social groups) with no significant change in the badger population from that recorded during the previous survey in 1990-1993. There has been no more recent survey.\n\n(ii) There is no directly comparable data available to address this part of the member’s question.\n\n(iii) Badgers are known to feed on both hedgehogs and bumblebees, but the impact on those populations is unclear. Factors such as increased use of pesticides, road mortality and loss of suitable habitat are more likely to impact bumblebee and hedgehog populations at a national level.\n\n(iv) The proportion of the badger population infected with TB is estimated from the proportion of infected badgers recovered as Road Traffic casualties and has varied from year to year. Over the past ten years, this has ranged from 14.1% in 2015 to 22.9% in 2022.","answerHtml":"(i) The last survey of badgers in Northern Ireland was in 2007/8, estimating a total population of 34,100 (7,600 social groups) with no significant change in the badger population from that recorded during the previous survey in 1990-1993. There has been no more recent survey.
(ii) There is no directly comparable data available to address this part of the member’s question.
(iii) Badgers are known to feed on both hedgehogs and bumblebees, but the impact on those populations is unclear. Factors such as increased use of pesticides, road mortality and loss of suitable habitat are more likely to impact bumblebee and hedgehog populations at a national level.
(iv) The proportion of the badger population infected with TB is estimated from the proportion of infected badgers recovered as Road Traffic casualties and has varied from year to year. Over the past ten years, this has ranged from 14.1% in 2015 to 22.9% in 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414984","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414984"}},{"id":"414983","reference":"AQW 17059/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the (i) current; and (ii) projected annual cost to (a) the public purse; and (b) farmers by not implementing a Bovine TB Eradication Strategy as soon as possible.","answerText":"Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is one of the most challenging issues faced by cattle farmers in Northern Ireland (NI).\n\nHerd incidence is currently at 10.15% and in the last financial year, the NI bTB programme cost to government was just under £55.7m, with £36.5m of this paid as compensation for the removal of bovines. Current estimates for this year indicate the cost of the programme could rise to around £60m.\n\nIn 2021, a business case supporting development of the NI bTB Eradication Strategy estimated farmer costs, resulting from a bTB breakdown in Northern Ireland, to be just over £14m in total per annum. However, it is acknowledged that rises in bTB incidence will have also resulted in increasing costs to farmers and farm businesses.\n\nThe costs of controlling this disease are therefore not sustainable for either the public purse or for hard working farm businesses.\n\nI have asked my Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) to undertake a review of TB policy and the TB programme, including the actions contained in the TB Eradication Strategy. The CVO has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders during this review, and I am looking forward to considering his recommendations shortly. The review will include a new delivery plan, will seek to address the current high levels of bovine TB incidence in Northern Ireland, the high costs to government and industry, and will clearly set out our priorities over the time ahead.","answerHtml":"Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is one of the most challenging issues faced by cattle farmers in Northern Ireland (NI).
Herd incidence is currently at 10.15% and in the last financial year, the NI bTB programme cost to government was just under £55.7m, with £36.5m of this paid as compensation for the removal of bovines. Current estimates for this year indicate the cost of the programme could rise to around £60m.
In 2021, a business case supporting development of the NI bTB Eradication Strategy estimated farmer costs, resulting from a bTB breakdown in Northern Ireland, to be just over £14m in total per annum. However, it is acknowledged that rises in bTB incidence will have also resulted in increasing costs to farmers and farm businesses.
The costs of controlling this disease are therefore not sustainable for either the public purse or for hard working farm businesses.
I have asked my Chief Veterinary Officer (CVO) to undertake a review of TB policy and the TB programme, including the actions contained in the TB Eradication Strategy. The CVO has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders during this review, and I am looking forward to considering his recommendations shortly. The review will include a new delivery plan, will seek to address the current high levels of bovine TB incidence in Northern Ireland, the high costs to government and industry, and will clearly set out our priorities over the time ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017059%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414983","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414983"}},{"id":"414982","reference":"AQW 17058/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail any concerns raised with him by parents and schools in relation to education provision for those over 18 years old with special educational needs; and (ii) for his assessment of enabling special schools as a setting for education and training for those up to 25 years old.","answerText":"The issue of both post-16 and post-19 transitions for young people with statement of special educational needs has been a focus of a specific workstream under the End-to-End Review of SEN.\n\nAs my officials have progressed this work, I have been made aware, by both young people, their families and school leaders, of the concerns and challenges in regard to ‘leaving school’ and the lack of appropriate supportive pathways,\n\nLegislative responsibility to provide for young people beyond the age of 19 falls outside the direct remit of the Department of Education (DE). This is set out within The Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996, Part II, Article 3, which states that for the purposes of the provision of special education a ‘child’ is defined as ‘a person who attains the age of 19 years at any time during a school year at any school shall be deemed not to have attained that age until the day after the end of that school year.’\n\nWithin the Special Educational Needs/Disability (SEND) Act 2016 there are provisions which specify that both the Education Authority (EA) and Health and Social Services Authority must ‘co-operate in the preparation of a transition plan’ for pupils with a statement of SEN and this will set out any arrangements appropriate to help facilitate a satisfactory transition from childhood to adulthood.\n\nThe scope of a transition plan also falls across the remit of the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Department for the Economy (DfE) and my officials are working with colleagues across these departments to inform and shape any required legislation and policy development in this area.","answerHtml":"The issue of both post-16 and post-19 transitions for young people with statement of special educational needs has been a focus of a specific workstream under the End-to-End Review of SEN.
As my officials have progressed this work, I have been made aware, by both young people, their families and school leaders, of the concerns and challenges in regard to ‘leaving school’ and the lack of appropriate supportive pathways,
Legislative responsibility to provide for young people beyond the age of 19 falls outside the direct remit of the Department of Education (DE). This is set out within The Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996, Part II, Article 3, which states that for the purposes of the provision of special education a ‘child’ is defined as ‘a person who attains the age of 19 years at any time during a school year at any school shall be deemed not to have attained that age until the day after the end of that school year.’
Within the Special Educational Needs/Disability (SEND) Act 2016 there are provisions which specify that both the Education Authority (EA) and Health and Social Services Authority must ‘co-operate in the preparation of a transition plan’ for pupils with a statement of SEN and this will set out any arrangements appropriate to help facilitate a satisfactory transition from childhood to adulthood.
The scope of a transition plan also falls across the remit of the Department for Communities (DfC) and the Department for the Economy (DfE) and my officials are working with colleagues across these departments to inform and shape any required legislation and policy development in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017058%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414982","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414982"}},{"id":"414981","reference":"AQW 17057/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-21","answerBy":"2024-11-05","answered":"2024-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how she intends to protect victims of domestic abuse against financial coercion during the no fault divorce process in her proposed legislation.","answerText":"Officials have been reviewing divorce legislation in other jurisdictions and plan to meet over the coming months with key stakeholders who can make a useful contribution to developing policy proposals. It is intended that this initial work will provide the basis for a full public consultation in 2025. This will inform divorce legislation that best meets the needs of those who, for whatever reason and in whatever circumstances, including those highlighted by the member, wish to end their marriage or civil partnership. In particular, officials have noted reforms elsewhere that enable those in coercive or abusive relationships a reasonably prompt exit without living through years of formal separation in which further financial coercion may occur, and those issues, along with others, will be carefully considered during the policy development process.\n\nI am determined that, in keeping with the Programme for Government commitment to ending violence against women and girls, any reforms to current divorce legislation will be effected in a manner that takes account of victims of domestic violence.","answerHtml":"Officials have been reviewing divorce legislation in other jurisdictions and plan to meet over the coming months with key stakeholders who can make a useful contribution to developing policy proposals. It is intended that this initial work will provide the basis for a full public consultation in 2025. This will inform divorce legislation that best meets the needs of those who, for whatever reason and in whatever circumstances, including those highlighted by the member, wish to end their marriage or civil partnership. In particular, officials have noted reforms elsewhere that enable those in coercive or abusive relationships a reasonably prompt exit without living through years of formal separation in which further financial coercion may occur, and those issues, along with others, will be carefully considered during the policy development process.
I am determined that, in keeping with the Programme for Government commitment to ending violence against women and girls, any reforms to current divorce legislation will be effected in a manner that takes account of victims of domestic violence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017057%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414981"}},{"id":"414619","reference":"AQW 16906/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-01","answered":"2025-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps being taken to ensure that older people have equal access to healthcare services and are not subject to ageism in treatment and delays in diagnosis.","answerText":"My Department has a number of measures in place to ensure older people have equal access to healthcare and are protected from ageism. Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 mandates the Department to consider the promotion of equality of opportunity across several categories, including age. This is enacted through the Department's Equality Scheme and Equality Action Plan. The Department conducts screenings and equality impact assessments to assess the potential impact of policies on equality promotion, in accordance with guidance from the Equality Commission, and publishes an annual progress report on its equality objectives.\n\nIn terms of GP services for older people, GPs, as independent contractors and clinical professionals, are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care, and management of individual patients based on their assessment of patient needs. This includes clinical assessment for the risk of serious illness and referral for diagnostic tests and specialist services as clinically appropriate.\n\nGP practices are required to address patient needs within the framework of equality, disability, and human rights legislation. This might include availing of sign language interpreting services, installing premises improvements and adjustments, and working flexibly to consider patients’ circumstances, such as their level of family support and capabilities regarding technology. Practices also have a responsibility to ensure that patients have clear information on how to access their services, making reasonable adjustments for specific groups when necessary.\n\nThe Department’s GP Access Working Group, which includes GP and service-user representation, is overseeing work to develop guidance for practices on managing patient demand and optimising workflow to maximise efficiency and improve experiences for patients. The Group is also considering how technology can help to improve the process for accessing services for both patients and practices.\n\nIn terms of nursing and residential care, the Enhancing Clinical Care Framework (ECCF), launched on 7 August 2023, aims to ensure that people who live in nursing and residential care homes are supported to lead the best life possible, underpinned by the right to equitable access to healthcare provision. The Framework describes the principles and practices of what people living in care homes need to access for optimal clinical care and support to stay healthy and well. To align with these principles, the existing Care Home Standards are being reviewed to reflect current best practice and ensure compliance with the ECCF.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) has also established an Ageing Well Public Health Planning Team aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of older individuals and reducing health disparities. Key initiatives include the Age-Friendly Initiative, coordinated by councils, which addresses various domains affecting older people's wellbeing and participation; Intergenerational Programmes aimed at combating loneliness, ageism, and social isolation; targeted Health Protection efforts for the screening and vaccination of older people; and the establishment of the Northern Ireland Frailty Network to promote the recognition and identification of frailty in individuals aged 65 and over to ensure age-appropriate care.\n\nAdditionally, the NHS Benchmarking Acute Frailty Audit Programme monitors acute inpatient journey data, providing the PHA and the wider Health and Social Care (HSC) sector with evidence and data to continually raise awareness and challenge operational service delivery, thereby improving outcomes for our older population. Workstreams focus on improving outcomes for older adults and reducing system pressures by minimising harms caused by delirium and deconditioning.","answerHtml":"My Department has a number of measures in place to ensure older people have equal access to healthcare and are protected from ageism. Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 mandates the Department to consider the promotion of equality of opportunity across several categories, including age. This is enacted through the Department's Equality Scheme and Equality Action Plan. The Department conducts screenings and equality impact assessments to assess the potential impact of policies on equality promotion, in accordance with guidance from the Equality Commission, and publishes an annual progress report on its equality objectives.
In terms of GP services for older people, GPs, as independent contractors and clinical professionals, are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care, and management of individual patients based on their assessment of patient needs. This includes clinical assessment for the risk of serious illness and referral for diagnostic tests and specialist services as clinically appropriate.
GP practices are required to address patient needs within the framework of equality, disability, and human rights legislation. This might include availing of sign language interpreting services, installing premises improvements and adjustments, and working flexibly to consider patients’ circumstances, such as their level of family support and capabilities regarding technology. Practices also have a responsibility to ensure that patients have clear information on how to access their services, making reasonable adjustments for specific groups when necessary.
The Department’s GP Access Working Group, which includes GP and service-user representation, is overseeing work to develop guidance for practices on managing patient demand and optimising workflow to maximise efficiency and improve experiences for patients. The Group is also considering how technology can help to improve the process for accessing services for both patients and practices.
In terms of nursing and residential care, the Enhancing Clinical Care Framework (ECCF), launched on 7 August 2023, aims to ensure that people who live in nursing and residential care homes are supported to lead the best life possible, underpinned by the right to equitable access to healthcare provision. The Framework describes the principles and practices of what people living in care homes need to access for optimal clinical care and support to stay healthy and well. To align with these principles, the existing Care Home Standards are being reviewed to reflect current best practice and ensure compliance with the ECCF.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has also established an Ageing Well Public Health Planning Team aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of older individuals and reducing health disparities. Key initiatives include the Age-Friendly Initiative, coordinated by councils, which addresses various domains affecting older people's wellbeing and participation; Intergenerational Programmes aimed at combating loneliness, ageism, and social isolation; targeted Health Protection efforts for the screening and vaccination of older people; and the establishment of the Northern Ireland Frailty Network to promote the recognition and identification of frailty in individuals aged 65 and over to ensure age-appropriate care.
Additionally, the NHS Benchmarking Acute Frailty Audit Programme monitors acute inpatient journey data, providing the PHA and the wider Health and Social Care (HSC) sector with evidence and data to continually raise awareness and challenge operational service delivery, thereby improving outcomes for our older population. Workstreams focus on improving outcomes for older adults and reducing system pressures by minimising harms caused by delirium and deconditioning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016906%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414619","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414619"}},{"id":"414618","reference":"AQW 16905/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-01","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on improved and timely access to social care services for older people, including domiciliary care packages that fully satisfy their assessed requirements.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016905%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414618","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414618"}},{"id":"414617","reference":"AQW 16904/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-01","answered":"2024-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on work to develop a loneliness strategy; and (ii) to detail any discussion he has had with Executive colleagues towards this aim.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my previous answer on this topic in AQW 6028/22-27","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my previous answer on this topic in AQW 6028/22-27
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016904%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414617","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414617"}},{"id":"414616","reference":"AQW 16903/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-01","answered":"2024-11-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the progress towards implementing and resourcing age-friendly initiatives to ensure that older people are supported in their communities.","answerText":"My Officials have engaged with older people and their representative organisations to consider the potential content of any future Active Ageing Strategy. I will be engaging with Executive colleagues to ensure that collectively we agree the best approach to prioritising and addressing the needs of older people in our society.\n\nThrough the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme, funding is awarded to organisations to deliver support for older people in Belfast and the North & West region, enabling them to remain in their own homes and communities, as well as supporting social inclusion, health and wellbeing.","answerHtml":"My Officials have engaged with older people and their representative organisations to consider the potential content of any future Active Ageing Strategy. I will be engaging with Executive colleagues to ensure that collectively we agree the best approach to prioritising and addressing the needs of older people in our society.
Through the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme, funding is awarded to organisations to deliver support for older people in Belfast and the North & West region, enabling them to remain in their own homes and communities, as well as supporting social inclusion, health and wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016903%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414616","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414616"}},{"id":"414615","reference":"AQW 16902/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-17","answerBy":"2024-11-01","answered":"2024-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) how he is addressing digital exclusion among older people, ensuring they are not left behind as services become more reliant on digital platforms; and (ii) for his assessment of the provision of non-digital alternatives.","answerText":"DIGITAL INCLUSION\n\nMy Department has a small Digital Inclusion Unit to promote online services and to give people the skills, confidence, safety, motivation and trust to engage with the online world. The aim is to promote a digitally inclusive society and to increase the use of online channels to access our public services through a range of projects by working in close partnership with several public and private organisations to help digitally excluded people get online.\n\nThe Digital Inclusion team’s current Go ON NI programme enables the public to use Government services online and it continues to grow by targeting events and promotional activities at the harder to reach digitally excluded sections of the population here.\n\nThese key groups include:\n\n•those aged over 50\n\n•rural communities\n\n•people with physical or mental impairment\n\n•socio-economic disadvantaged communities\n\n•long-term unemployed\n\nThe Go ON NI programme ensures older communities are not excluded from accessing information and services by working with various organisations to recruit digital champions, provide tuition, and detail the help that is available to assist these communities in accessing online services.\n\nOctober is Positive Ageing Month, a month-long festival of events and activities for older people, celebrating and promoting the well-being, contributions and experience of older people. During this month the Go ON NI Programme have been attending events promoting this programme and offering free digital skills sessions specifically for older people, in local libraries, community centres and hubs.\n\nThe Go ON NI programme runs all year round for people wanting to improve their digital skills. Between April and September this year, the Go ON NI programme has delivered 448 sessions to 1,810 people.","answerHtml":"DIGITAL INCLUSION
My Department has a small Digital Inclusion Unit to promote online services and to give people the skills, confidence, safety, motivation and trust to engage with the online world. The aim is to promote a digitally inclusive society and to increase the use of online channels to access our public services through a range of projects by working in close partnership with several public and private organisations to help digitally excluded people get online.
The Digital Inclusion team’s current Go ON NI programme enables the public to use Government services online and it continues to grow by targeting events and promotional activities at the harder to reach digitally excluded sections of the population here.
These key groups include:
•those aged over 50
•rural communities
•people with physical or mental impairment
•socio-economic disadvantaged communities
•long-term unemployed
The Go ON NI programme ensures older communities are not excluded from accessing information and services by working with various organisations to recruit digital champions, provide tuition, and detail the help that is available to assist these communities in accessing online services.
October is Positive Ageing Month, a month-long festival of events and activities for older people, celebrating and promoting the well-being, contributions and experience of older people. During this month the Go ON NI Programme have been attending events promoting this programme and offering free digital skills sessions specifically for older people, in local libraries, community centres and hubs.
The Go ON NI programme runs all year round for people wanting to improve their digital skills. Between April and September this year, the Go ON NI programme has delivered 448 sessions to 1,810 people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016902%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414615","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414615"}},{"id":"414442","reference":"AQW 16819/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-16","answerBy":"2024-10-31","answered":"2024-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, further to the Committee for Justice seeking an extension to the Committee Stage of the Justice Bill, when she expects to introduce the Sentencing Bill.","answerText":"The Sentencing Bill is intended to be the second DoJ Bill in this mandate.\n\nI have been planning on the basis that a Sentencing Bill would be introduced later in 2025, and this remains my intention, though how quickly this Bill is able to progress following its introduction will be a matter for the Assembly.","answerHtml":"The Sentencing Bill is intended to be the second DoJ Bill in this mandate.
I have been planning on the basis that a Sentencing Bill would be introduced later in 2025, and this remains my intention, though how quickly this Bill is able to progress following its introduction will be a matter for the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016819%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414442"}},{"id":"414441","reference":"AQW 16818/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-16","answerBy":"2024-10-31","answered":"2024-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the levels of suicide in young males; and (ii) to detail the action he is taking to address this.","answerText":"Every death by suicide is a tragedy. In every year since 2001, more than 70% of suicide deaths have been male. In 2022, suicide deaths were highest for men between the ages of 40 and 44. Rates have also been high in recent years for males aged between 25-29. Suicide remains the leading cause of death in males under 50.\n\nThere are a wide variety of suicide prevention services available to men and this would include Lifeline, Self Harm Intervention Programme, Flourish! Churches programme, training, Psychological First Aid and Stress Control classes, and The Rainbow Project which provides support for the mental and emotional well-being of lesbian, gay and bisexual people in Northern Ireland.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts also provide MANifest men’s mental health training across the region. A wide range of programmes are also funded on a short term basis in local areas that have a focus on men including resilience building, mental health promotion through sport, men's shed, allotment and horticulture programmes.","answerHtml":"Every death by suicide is a tragedy. In every year since 2001, more than 70% of suicide deaths have been male. In 2022, suicide deaths were highest for men between the ages of 40 and 44. Rates have also been high in recent years for males aged between 25-29. Suicide remains the leading cause of death in males under 50.
There are a wide variety of suicide prevention services available to men and this would include Lifeline, Self Harm Intervention Programme, Flourish! Churches programme, training, Psychological First Aid and Stress Control classes, and The Rainbow Project which provides support for the mental and emotional well-being of lesbian, gay and bisexual people in Northern Ireland.
Health and Social Care Trusts also provide MANifest men’s mental health training across the region. A wide range of programmes are also funded on a short term basis in local areas that have a focus on men including resilience building, mental health promotion through sport, men's shed, allotment and horticulture programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016818%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414441"}},{"id":"414440","reference":"AQW 16817/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-16","answerBy":"2024-10-31","answered":"2024-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any work from Early Years through to post-primary school age to ensure a culture of healthy relationships.","answerText":"Learning about developing relationships begins as early as the Sure Start Programmes and develops througout a young person’s education.\n\nPersonal, Social and Emotional Development is one of six pre-school Areas of Learning. It covers children’s emotional well-being, understanding of who they are, and respect for others and their environment. It is also about forming and sustaining relationships, beginning to understand emotions, learning how to self-regulate, and developing positive dispositions to learn. Good personal, social and emotional development gives children the best opportunity for success in other Areas of Learning. As they begin their pre-school education, children bring with them a variety of personal and social skills, values and attitudes. They acquire experiences and relationships within the home and their immediate surroundings, and it is important that these are recognised.\n\nOur curriculum is designed to provide opportunities to educate young people to develop healthy relationships. Pupils have the opportunity to explore their management of a range of feelings and emotions and those of others; initiating, developing and sustaining mutually satisfying relationships, explore the qualities of a loving, respectful relationship and develop coping strategies to deal with challenging relationship scenarios.","answerHtml":"Learning about developing relationships begins as early as the Sure Start Programmes and develops througout a young person’s education.
Personal, Social and Emotional Development is one of six pre-school Areas of Learning. It covers children’s emotional well-being, understanding of who they are, and respect for others and their environment. It is also about forming and sustaining relationships, beginning to understand emotions, learning how to self-regulate, and developing positive dispositions to learn. Good personal, social and emotional development gives children the best opportunity for success in other Areas of Learning. As they begin their pre-school education, children bring with them a variety of personal and social skills, values and attitudes. They acquire experiences and relationships within the home and their immediate surroundings, and it is important that these are recognised.
Our curriculum is designed to provide opportunities to educate young people to develop healthy relationships. Pupils have the opportunity to explore their management of a range of feelings and emotions and those of others; initiating, developing and sustaining mutually satisfying relationships, explore the qualities of a loving, respectful relationship and develop coping strategies to deal with challenging relationship scenarios.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016817%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414440"}},{"id":"414439","reference":"AQW 16816/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-16","answerBy":"2024-10-31","answered":"2024-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any conversations he has had to enable the Housing Executive to borrow against their rents to raise income for building new houses.","answerText":"I am actively pressing for a solution that will put NIHE on a sustainable footing to increase routine & planned investment, to deal with maintenance backlogs and a program of retrofit to improve energy efficiency in homes. To that end, I have had numerous conversations on this matter.\n\nMy Department is currently investigating how NIHE might be able access Government Loans, without reclassification or significant restructuring. Access to these loans would put NIHE on a more equal footing with the Registered Housing Associations, in terms of providing value for money in constructing new social housing units.","answerHtml":"I am actively pressing for a solution that will put NIHE on a sustainable footing to increase routine & planned investment, to deal with maintenance backlogs and a program of retrofit to improve energy efficiency in homes. To that end, I have had numerous conversations on this matter.
My Department is currently investigating how NIHE might be able access Government Loans, without reclassification or significant restructuring. Access to these loans would put NIHE on a more equal footing with the Registered Housing Associations, in terms of providing value for money in constructing new social housing units.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016816%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414439"}},{"id":"414438","reference":"AQW 16815/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-16","answerBy":"2024-10-31","answered":"2024-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has any plans to review the process for accessing Sure Start services.","answerText":"A recent independent review of Sure Start determined that the current arrangements for targeting support remain the most appropriate method to reach children facing disadvantage.\n\nI recently brought 22 new areas into Sure Start which means that around 48% of children aged 0-3 (and their families) now have access to Sure Start services. Further expansion will be considered within the Executive’s Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and will be dependent on additional funding being made available by the Executive and the capacity of the early years workforce.","answerHtml":"A recent independent review of Sure Start determined that the current arrangements for targeting support remain the most appropriate method to reach children facing disadvantage.
I recently brought 22 new areas into Sure Start which means that around 48% of children aged 0-3 (and their families) now have access to Sure Start services. Further expansion will be considered within the Executive’s Early Learning and Childcare Strategy and will be dependent on additional funding being made available by the Executive and the capacity of the early years workforce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016815%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414438"}},{"id":"414260","reference":"AQW 16747/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-15","answerBy":"2024-10-30","answered":"2024-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) why the annual rise, in line with the Consumer Price Inflation, for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Pension Scheme is not applied at the beginning of the fiscal year; (ii) whether this rise will be backdated to April each year; and (iii) whether there are problems accessing personal pension information via the online portal.","answerText":"Historically the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) have processed the pension increase in July or August of each year, which included any arrears owed since the April increase was confirmed. This was due to resourcing issues, as the pension increase was calculated and processed manually outside of a pension software system.\n\nNIFRS has been undergoing a period of significant change with the pension’s administration and undertook a project to outsource to HSC Pensions’ Service. The final stages of this project involved the transfer of the pension payroll to ensure that they would have a single, automated, end-to-end pension administration with improved resilience and support for their Firefighters and Pensioners. This will reduce the risk of human error from manual calculations of increases and arrears and provide a more efficient service for the member in the longer term. The pensioner payroll migrated across in February 2024.\n\nThere was a need to complete additional data cleansing and reconciliation as well as testing of the software application to ensure the pension increase was accurately implemented. Unfortunately there had been some technical issues with the software that delayed the project and NIFRS have worked with the software supplier to resolve these issues and administer the increase.\n\nThese issues have now been resolved, and the pension increase together with arrears, for the vast majority of the members, were paid on 1st October 2024. Due to the complexity of some members’ cases, it is envisaged that the remaining cases will be paid by the end of October.\n\nThe annual pension increase occurs in April of each year. As the new system has now been implemented it is NIFRS aim to process the pension increase, including arrears backdated to April, much earlier than they have been doing historically.\n\nAs part of the pension’s administration project NIFRS and the HSC Pensions Service have been preparing to launch a Member Self Service Portal. This has taken longer than initially anticipated due to technical issues with system development, allowing time for stringent testing of the portal, and the development of member videos on how to navigate registration.\n\nCommunications had been issued to scheme members advising them of the upcoming service and asking them to register their interest to facilitate the implementation of the new service prior to Go Live.\n\nHSC Pension Service have advised that to facilitate a soft launch of the self-service portal the service went live on 1st October. Any attempts by members to access the service prior to Go Live, will have failed. Further communications to members will be issued week commencing 21st October, officially notifying them that the service is now Live and they can access their pension information via the portal.","answerHtml":"Historically the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) have processed the pension increase in July or August of each year, which included any arrears owed since the April increase was confirmed. This was due to resourcing issues, as the pension increase was calculated and processed manually outside of a pension software system.
NIFRS has been undergoing a period of significant change with the pension’s administration and undertook a project to outsource to HSC Pensions’ Service. The final stages of this project involved the transfer of the pension payroll to ensure that they would have a single, automated, end-to-end pension administration with improved resilience and support for their Firefighters and Pensioners. This will reduce the risk of human error from manual calculations of increases and arrears and provide a more efficient service for the member in the longer term. The pensioner payroll migrated across in February 2024.
There was a need to complete additional data cleansing and reconciliation as well as testing of the software application to ensure the pension increase was accurately implemented. Unfortunately there had been some technical issues with the software that delayed the project and NIFRS have worked with the software supplier to resolve these issues and administer the increase.
These issues have now been resolved, and the pension increase together with arrears, for the vast majority of the members, were paid on 1st October 2024. Due to the complexity of some members’ cases, it is envisaged that the remaining cases will be paid by the end of October.
The annual pension increase occurs in April of each year. As the new system has now been implemented it is NIFRS aim to process the pension increase, including arrears backdated to April, much earlier than they have been doing historically.
As part of the pension’s administration project NIFRS and the HSC Pensions Service have been preparing to launch a Member Self Service Portal. This has taken longer than initially anticipated due to technical issues with system development, allowing time for stringent testing of the portal, and the development of member videos on how to navigate registration.
Communications had been issued to scheme members advising them of the upcoming service and asking them to register their interest to facilitate the implementation of the new service prior to Go Live.
HSC Pension Service have advised that to facilitate a soft launch of the self-service portal the service went live on 1st October. Any attempts by members to access the service prior to Go Live, will have failed. Further communications to members will be issued week commencing 21st October, officially notifying them that the service is now Live and they can access their pension information via the portal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016747%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414260"}},{"id":"414259","reference":"AQW 16746/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-15","answerBy":"2024-10-30","answered":"2024-11-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of children currently awaiting percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion surgery; (ii) how long is the current waiting list; (iii) the actions he has taken to reduce this waiting list; (iv) whether he has engaged private healthcare providers to reduce the waiting list; and (v) his assessment of the quality of life for children on the waiting list.","answerText":"On the 24th October 2024, 74 children were on the waiting list for this elective procedure. However, this number changes regularly with some children receiving their surgery and other children being added to the waiting list for the procedure. The longest waiting patient is waiting from early May 2022 this however is excluding a number of children who have been medically or socially deferred.\n\nAs stated previously my officials have been working with Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) to identify measures in order to try and address this ongoing issue.\n\nThe Belfast Trust has commenced additional clinics and theatre sessions to help reduce paediatric waiting times and additional paediatric gastrostomy procedures have been approved through waiting list initiative funding. The Trust has now scheduled additional weekend theatre sessions dates between October and December to help address the backlog.\n\nA paediatric surgeon has now completed a validation of Peg Tube waiting lists to identify which children would be clinically suitable to transfer to Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool for the procedure. The clinical criteria for transfer has been agreed by the specialist team to determine this. BHSCT is currently in negotiations with Alder Hey Hospital to identify what capacity they may have to offer. However, like the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC), they are currently also experiencing unscheduled seasonal pressures. The capacity required will include pre-assessment of these complex children, theatre capacity, inpatient bed capacity (children stay between 48-72 hours), parental training to manage the peg tube, equipment and food, and a follow up appointment.\n\nFurther discussions are also underway with another District General Hospital (DGH) to provide the Belfast Trust paediatric surgeon with a surgical theatre list. Belfast Trust Gastrostomy Specialist Nurses will provide training to staff in the DGH to help facilitate this. A number of children have been identified to be managed on these theatre lists.\n\nA further review of surgical work performed in RBHSC is underway and any work that can be redirected to DGHs will be transferred. This may free up capacity in RBHSC for Paediatric Surgeons to perform more gastrostomy surgery and other more complex surgery that can only be carried out in RBHSC.\n\nThe Trust are also examining partnership working with the Private Sector however there are a number of areas that the Trust would need to have assurance on for the delivery of safe and effective care of these complex children many of which have other co-morbidities.\n\nI would like to acknowledge the frustration and anxiety felt by many families and young people who are waiting for procedures, treatment or surgery. Our waiting times are longer than anyone would wish them to be for this surgery and I am truly sorry. My officials at the Department of Health, the paediatric team within RBHSC and I share the families’ frustrations but I would wish the families to know that we remain fully committed to making things better for their children and will continue to work to explore every option that is available to improve access and address waiting times for this surgery. However, this is not without challenge due to the ongoing pressures on beds and theatre capacity, as well as funding constraints.\n\nMy officials will continue to meet with BHSCT to discuss these potential solutions and examine their progress and success to ensure that all of the children and young people receive the care they require as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"On the 24th October 2024, 74 children were on the waiting list for this elective procedure. However, this number changes regularly with some children receiving their surgery and other children being added to the waiting list for the procedure. The longest waiting patient is waiting from early May 2022 this however is excluding a number of children who have been medically or socially deferred.
As stated previously my officials have been working with Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT) to identify measures in order to try and address this ongoing issue.
The Belfast Trust has commenced additional clinics and theatre sessions to help reduce paediatric waiting times and additional paediatric gastrostomy procedures have been approved through waiting list initiative funding. The Trust has now scheduled additional weekend theatre sessions dates between October and December to help address the backlog.
A paediatric surgeon has now completed a validation of Peg Tube waiting lists to identify which children would be clinically suitable to transfer to Alder Hey Hospital in Liverpool for the procedure. The clinical criteria for transfer has been agreed by the specialist team to determine this. BHSCT is currently in negotiations with Alder Hey Hospital to identify what capacity they may have to offer. However, like the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC), they are currently also experiencing unscheduled seasonal pressures. The capacity required will include pre-assessment of these complex children, theatre capacity, inpatient bed capacity (children stay between 48-72 hours), parental training to manage the peg tube, equipment and food, and a follow up appointment.
Further discussions are also underway with another District General Hospital (DGH) to provide the Belfast Trust paediatric surgeon with a surgical theatre list. Belfast Trust Gastrostomy Specialist Nurses will provide training to staff in the DGH to help facilitate this. A number of children have been identified to be managed on these theatre lists.
A further review of surgical work performed in RBHSC is underway and any work that can be redirected to DGHs will be transferred. This may free up capacity in RBHSC for Paediatric Surgeons to perform more gastrostomy surgery and other more complex surgery that can only be carried out in RBHSC.
The Trust are also examining partnership working with the Private Sector however there are a number of areas that the Trust would need to have assurance on for the delivery of safe and effective care of these complex children many of which have other co-morbidities.
I would like to acknowledge the frustration and anxiety felt by many families and young people who are waiting for procedures, treatment or surgery. Our waiting times are longer than anyone would wish them to be for this surgery and I am truly sorry. My officials at the Department of Health, the paediatric team within RBHSC and I share the families’ frustrations but I would wish the families to know that we remain fully committed to making things better for their children and will continue to work to explore every option that is available to improve access and address waiting times for this surgery. However, this is not without challenge due to the ongoing pressures on beds and theatre capacity, as well as funding constraints.
My officials will continue to meet with BHSCT to discuss these potential solutions and examine their progress and success to ensure that all of the children and young people receive the care they require as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016746%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414259","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414259"}},{"id":"414258","reference":"AQW 16745/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-15","answerBy":"2024-10-30","answered":"2024-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how statutory consultees under his Department consider the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 when considering planning applications.","answerText":"The Department provides advice about potential environmental impacts arising from planning consultations received, such as impacts on terrestrial and marine habitats and species and water quality.\n\nIn relation to the Climate Act this may include advice about nature-based solutions accompanying an application or advice about proposals that may impact on peatlands, in particular active peatland which is important for its carbon capture and storage properties.","answerHtml":"The Department provides advice about potential environmental impacts arising from planning consultations received, such as impacts on terrestrial and marine habitats and species and water quality.
In relation to the Climate Act this may include advice about nature-based solutions accompanying an application or advice about proposals that may impact on peatlands, in particular active peatland which is important for its carbon capture and storage properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016745%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414258"}},{"id":"414257","reference":"AQW 16744/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-15","answerBy":"2024-10-30","answered":"2024-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why those studying full time in further and higher education are unable to apply for carers allowance.","answerText":"The primary purpose of Carer’s Allowance is to provide a measure of financial support for people who give up the opportunity of full-time employment in order to provide regular and substantial care, of at least 35 hours per week, to a severely disabled person who is in receipt of certain disability benefits.\n\nIt is a general principle that people in full-time education should be supported by the educational maintenance system of loans and grants, rather than the social security system.","answerHtml":"The primary purpose of Carer’s Allowance is to provide a measure of financial support for people who give up the opportunity of full-time employment in order to provide regular and substantial care, of at least 35 hours per week, to a severely disabled person who is in receipt of certain disability benefits.
It is a general principle that people in full-time education should be supported by the educational maintenance system of loans and grants, rather than the social security system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016744%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414257"}},{"id":"414256","reference":"AQW 16743/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-10-15","answerBy":"2024-10-30","answered":"2024-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current waiting time for dental surgery which requires general anaesthetic; and (ii) the steps he is taking to reduce waiting lists for dental treatments which require general anaesthetic.","answerText":"(i) Children requiring dental extractions, particularly those below 10 years of age, will often not cooperate sufficiently to allow the teeth to be removed under local anaesthetic alone. General Dental Practitioners refer patients of this type to the Community Dental Services (CDS) of the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts.\n\nThe CDS specialises in providing routine dental care to patients who, for various reasons are not suitable for treatment in the primary care setting. In 2023-24, the CDS saw over 3,000 children for extractions under general anaesthetic. To ensure that the most urgent cases are treated as quickly as possible, CDS teams within HSC Trusts across Northern Ireland operate a strict triage and prioritisation process which is based on clinical need.\n\nEach HSC Trust CDS team has provided responses as detailed below for the current average wait from the time of initial referral, indicating the clinical need to be urgent, to the treatment appointment (referral to treat time).\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust: < 1 month.\n\nSouth Eastern Health and Social Care Trust: 1-2 months.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust: > 1 year.\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust: 6-12 months.\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust: 1-2 months.\n\nIt should be noted that the average waiting times for acute patients would be less than those stated for urgent as they are given a higher priority grading; those with a routine grading would have a longer waiting time.\n\n(ii) The CDS waiting lists for dental treatment under general anaesthetic were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and associated infection prevention and control restrictions. Across all HSC Trusts, CDS access to dental theatre lists have yet not returned to pre-pandemic levels.\n\nThroughout the later stages of the pandemic some waiting list initiatives were undertaken by some of the HSC CDS Trusts. These included additional lists (including weekends), as well as a successful cross border initiative in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust for children requiring timely extraction of permanent teeth.\n\nAttempts were also made to maximise the use of alternatives to general anaesthetic. These included the use of inhalation sedation (twilight sleep) and advanced sedation techniques (Penthrox). The advantage of these approaches is that they can be administered in a dental surgery thereby overcoming the issue of lack of theatre availability.\n\nAnother method that has been successfully utilised by some Trusts is to have a general anaesthetic team and patient list on standby to take advantage of any free theatre space that becomes available at short notice due to list cancellation by another specialty.\n\nThe Southern Health and Social Care Trust have also successfully changed their model of delivery of paediatric theatre services recently. They have invested/ trained a Paediatric Perioperative Nurse for the Paediatric theatres in Daisy Hill Hospital as well as undertaking international recruitment to increase the number of theatre nurses.\n\nLast year, my Department consulted upon the Oral Health Improvement Plans for Children and Older Persons. This document made a number of strategic recommendations to prevent dental decay among children. If these recommendations were implemented it would be expected that over the next three to five years there would be a reduction in the need for dental treatment under general anaesthetic.","answerHtml":"(i) Children requiring dental extractions, particularly those below 10 years of age, will often not cooperate sufficiently to allow the teeth to be removed under local anaesthetic alone. General Dental Practitioners refer patients of this type to the Community Dental Services (CDS) of the Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts.
The CDS specialises in providing routine dental care to patients who, for various reasons are not suitable for treatment in the primary care setting. In 2023-24, the CDS saw over 3,000 children for extractions under general anaesthetic. To ensure that the most urgent cases are treated as quickly as possible, CDS teams within HSC Trusts across Northern Ireland operate a strict triage and prioritisation process which is based on clinical need.
Each HSC Trust CDS team has provided responses as detailed below for the current average wait from the time of initial referral, indicating the clinical need to be urgent, to the treatment appointment (referral to treat time).
Southern Health and Social Care Trust: < 1 month.
South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust: 1-2 months.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust: > 1 year.
Northern Health and Social Care Trust: 6-12 months.
Western Health and Social Care Trust: 1-2 months.
It should be noted that the average waiting times for acute patients would be less than those stated for urgent as they are given a higher priority grading; those with a routine grading would have a longer waiting time.
(ii) The CDS waiting lists for dental treatment under general anaesthetic were severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and associated infection prevention and control restrictions. Across all HSC Trusts, CDS access to dental theatre lists have yet not returned to pre-pandemic levels.
Throughout the later stages of the pandemic some waiting list initiatives were undertaken by some of the HSC CDS Trusts. These included additional lists (including weekends), as well as a successful cross border initiative in the Southern Health and Social Care Trust for children requiring timely extraction of permanent teeth.
Attempts were also made to maximise the use of alternatives to general anaesthetic. These included the use of inhalation sedation (twilight sleep) and advanced sedation techniques (Penthrox). The advantage of these approaches is that they can be administered in a dental surgery thereby overcoming the issue of lack of theatre availability.
Another method that has been successfully utilised by some Trusts is to have a general anaesthetic team and patient list on standby to take advantage of any free theatre space that becomes available at short notice due to list cancellation by another specialty.
The Southern Health and Social Care Trust have also successfully changed their model of delivery of paediatric theatre services recently. They have invested/ trained a Paediatric Perioperative Nurse for the Paediatric theatres in Daisy Hill Hospital as well as undertaking international recruitment to increase the number of theatre nurses.
Last year, my Department consulted upon the Oral Health Improvement Plans for Children and Older Persons. This document made a number of strategic recommendations to prevent dental decay among children. If these recommendations were implemented it would be expected that over the next three to five years there would be a reduction in the need for dental treatment under general anaesthetic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016743%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=414256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=414256"}},{"id":"413863","reference":"AQO 909/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-26","answerBy":"2024-10-07","answered":"2024-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline their plans to include measures to address drink-spiking in the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.","answerText":"One of the key objectives of the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls is for women and girls to be safe and feel safe everywhere. The Delivery Plan 2024-2026 sets out a programme of work with individual sectors to consider what action is required to address VAWG within that sector.\n\nA Safer Socialising Steering Group, which contains representatives from a range of departments and organisations including Hospitality Ulster, Translink and the PSNI, has been established to develop an action plan to address VAWG issues in the context of socialising. Spiking has been identified as a future agenda item for discussion by this Group.\n\nThe PSNI Action Plan, Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, also contains actions in relation to spiking.","answerHtml":"One of the key objectives of the Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls is for women and girls to be safe and feel safe everywhere. The Delivery Plan 2024-2026 sets out a programme of work with individual sectors to consider what action is required to address VAWG within that sector.
A Safer Socialising Steering Group, which contains representatives from a range of departments and organisations including Hospitality Ulster, Translink and the PSNI, has been established to develop an action plan to address VAWG issues in the context of socialising. Spiking has been identified as a future agenda item for discussion by this Group.
The PSNI Action Plan, Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, also contains actions in relation to spiking.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20909%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=413863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=413863"}},{"id":"411128","reference":"AQW 15518/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he has any plans to provide financial assistance for transport for carers and family members visiting loved ones with life-limiting illnesses in inpatient care.","answerText":"Free or discounted travel is available through the Concessionary Fares Scheme on Translink services to those in possession of a SmartPass. Financial assistance is also available in the form of the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme. The scheme is available to those members of Rural Community Transport Partnership’s who use the rural Dial-a-Lift service. The Assisted Rural Travel Scheme allows any passenger with a current SmartPass to travel free or half fare on Dial-a-Lift. This may include trips undertaken to visit someone in hospital within the Partnership’s operational area.","answerHtml":"Free or discounted travel is available through the Concessionary Fares Scheme on Translink services to those in possession of a SmartPass. Financial assistance is also available in the form of the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme. The scheme is available to those members of Rural Community Transport Partnership’s who use the rural Dial-a-Lift service. The Assisted Rural Travel Scheme allows any passenger with a current SmartPass to travel free or half fare on Dial-a-Lift. This may include trips undertaken to visit someone in hospital within the Partnership’s operational area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015518%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411128"}},{"id":"411127","reference":"AQW 15517/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any actions he is taking to improve access to social security advice for people with life-limiting conditions and their carers; and (ii) whether he has considered providing additional funding to hospices and other voluntary sector providers to expand their capacity to offer financial and social support services.","answerText":"My department’s Make the Call Service provides free and confidential needs assessments for individuals to check for entitlement to social security benefits, as well as additional supports and services.\n\nMake the Call has a team of community outreach officers, who conduct home visits with vulnerable people through age, disability, illness, or adverse circumstances to provide face to face assistance and support.\n\nFor those nearing the end of life because of illness, there is provision for benefits to be paid without the need for an assessment and claims are fast-tracked for payment.\n\nTo ensure that customers with life limiting conditions can access the disability benefits to which they are entitled, the Department works closely with voluntary and community stakeholders. This includes engagement with the Disability Consultative Forum and MacMillan Cancer Support.\n\nMy department does not have any funding relationships in place with Hospices.\n\nIn terms of other community provision my department provides significant annual funding in the region of £6.6m to the independent advice and debt sector to provide local and regional advice on a range of issues, including advice on benefit entitlements and debt support.\n\nMy department also provides direct support through the Neighbourhood Renewal programme to community-based projects working in the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland and delivering a range of support services.","answerHtml":"My department’s Make the Call Service provides free and confidential needs assessments for individuals to check for entitlement to social security benefits, as well as additional supports and services.
Make the Call has a team of community outreach officers, who conduct home visits with vulnerable people through age, disability, illness, or adverse circumstances to provide face to face assistance and support.
For those nearing the end of life because of illness, there is provision for benefits to be paid without the need for an assessment and claims are fast-tracked for payment.
To ensure that customers with life limiting conditions can access the disability benefits to which they are entitled, the Department works closely with voluntary and community stakeholders. This includes engagement with the Disability Consultative Forum and MacMillan Cancer Support.
My department does not have any funding relationships in place with Hospices.
In terms of other community provision my department provides significant annual funding in the region of £6.6m to the independent advice and debt sector to provide local and regional advice on a range of issues, including advice on benefit entitlements and debt support.
My department also provides direct support through the Neighbourhood Renewal programme to community-based projects working in the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland and delivering a range of support services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015517%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411127"}},{"id":"411126","reference":"AQW 15516/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how his Department and the Health and Social Care Trusts are accounting for travel to and from charitable hospices in future patient transport planning, to ensure equitable access to palliative care services.","answerText":"The provision of non-emergency transport to facilitate individuals to access health and social care services is determined by a medical practitioner who carries out an assessment of an individual’s transport needs, as set out in Chapter Three of “The Transport Strategy for Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland”.\n\nThe published Strategy is accessible at:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/transport-strategy-health-and-social-care-services-northern-ireland\n\nPatients travelling to or from hospices are not treated any differently to those patients travelling from their own homes or from a hospital setting.\n\nThe current transport strategy dates back to 2007 and it is my intention to initiate a review of the policy this financial year, subject to available resources. As part of that review, the needs of all service users will be considered.","answerHtml":"The provision of non-emergency transport to facilitate individuals to access health and social care services is determined by a medical practitioner who carries out an assessment of an individual’s transport needs, as set out in Chapter Three of “The Transport Strategy for Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland”.
The published Strategy is accessible at:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/transport-strategy-health-and-social-care-services-northern-ireland
Patients travelling to or from hospices are not treated any differently to those patients travelling from their own homes or from a hospital setting.
The current transport strategy dates back to 2007 and it is my intention to initiate a review of the policy this financial year, subject to available resources. As part of that review, the needs of all service users will be considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015516%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411126"}},{"id":"411125","reference":"AQW 15515/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how he directs health and social care professionals to collaborate with local voluntary sector providers, such as hospices, to address the holistic needs of patients, including their financial and emotional well-being.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of holistic palliative and end of life care for people with life-limiting conditions and for those who are important to them.\n\nHolistic palliative care should be, and is, provided in response to individual needs taking account of clinical, psychological, emotional, spiritual and social circumstances.\n\nIn line with recommendations of the Living Matters, Dying Matters Strategy, when a person is identified as having palliative and end of life care needs they will be allocated a palliative care keyworker, typically the district nurse, who will undertake a holistic assessment using tools such as the Northern Ireland Single Assessment Tool (NISAT).\n\nNISAT is designed to capture information required for holistic person-centred assessment to enable the assessor to identify what support, care or treatment the person may require and where necessary to trigger referral to specialised services.\n\nWhen assessments identify individuals who have more complex or unresolved needs, or symptoms which cannot be resolved by their generalist services, they would be referred to a relevant specialist palliative care service, including those offered by hospices.\n\nWhen financial concerns or pressures are highlighted the individual may also be signposted to other services including voluntary partners such as local advice agencies, Macmillan Benefits Service or the Marie Curie Support Line who have advisers trained to offer tailored benefits and/or debt advice.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of holistic palliative and end of life care for people with life-limiting conditions and for those who are important to them.
Holistic palliative care should be, and is, provided in response to individual needs taking account of clinical, psychological, emotional, spiritual and social circumstances.
In line with recommendations of the Living Matters, Dying Matters Strategy, when a person is identified as having palliative and end of life care needs they will be allocated a palliative care keyworker, typically the district nurse, who will undertake a holistic assessment using tools such as the Northern Ireland Single Assessment Tool (NISAT).
NISAT is designed to capture information required for holistic person-centred assessment to enable the assessor to identify what support, care or treatment the person may require and where necessary to trigger referral to specialised services.
When assessments identify individuals who have more complex or unresolved needs, or symptoms which cannot be resolved by their generalist services, they would be referred to a relevant specialist palliative care service, including those offered by hospices.
When financial concerns or pressures are highlighted the individual may also be signposted to other services including voluntary partners such as local advice agencies, Macmillan Benefits Service or the Marie Curie Support Line who have advisers trained to offer tailored benefits and/or debt advice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015515%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411125"}},{"id":"411124","reference":"AQW 15514/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-23","answerBy":"2024-10-08","answered":"2024-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps being taken to ensure that health and social care professionals regularly ask patients with life-limiting conditions about their financial concerns, especially at key stages of their care.","answerText":"Across the region Trusts use a number of methods to ask patients with life-limiting conditions about their financial concerns.\n\nAs part of the Department of Health’s Case Management (2010) Guidance and using the Northern Ireland Single Assessment Tool (NISAT), an individuals’ finances are discussed on an annual basis (or more regularly as required) with all individuals. This includes those with life limiting conditions, in receipt of secondary care and known to a case manager. The NISAT incorporates a section on finances and this is covered within the initial assessment and at follow-up reviews as required. Finances are also discussed with individuals when required, specifically outside of assessment or planned reviews.\n\nTrusts also have established long-standing partnerships with Macmillan Cancer Support in relation to their Benefits Advice Service, which referrals can be made to. The Macmillan Benefits service can advise on benefits and grants including the Macmillan grant and others. This service is offered via phone but a request can be made for face to face appointment. Alternatively, patients can contact the Macmillan Regional Benefits line. The Macmillan information and support service can advise on other forms of grant and financial support and will refer back to the Benefits Team where required.\n\nSocial Care professionals regularly ask patients with life-limiting conditions about their financial concerns, especially at key stages of their care; professionals are directed to do this via their assessment and review tools. Professionals often signpost patients to community organisations for support with their benefit applications to ensure they are getting their full benefit entitlement. In addition, social care professional staff will undertake a financial assessment with patients should they require placement in a care home environment. Consideration is also given to individuals’ financial capacity to manage their finances and legal orders are implemented to safeguard finances, when necessary.\n\nA Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) is offered to cancer patients by their Cancer Nurse Specialist (CNS). Using the HNA, the individual can share their holistic concerns including practical, emotional, physical, spiritual or financial concerns so that the CNS can address these needs through a bespoke personalised care plan including onward referral and support. The HNA is offered at various stages along the journey as required. At diagnosis stage each patient receives a core pack of various key support services and often most cancer patients are referred to the Macmillan Benefits at this stage by their CNS to provide access to information and support at the beginning of their journey.\n\nClinical Health Psychology Services provide input to individuals with a number of potentially life limiting conditions, including those with diagnosis of cancer, renal, and respiratory conditions. A biopsychosocial initial assessment is conducted which encompasses all areas of the individual’s life, with clinicians being acutely aware that social issues relating to financial hardship can have a significant impact on the person’s psychological wellbeing. All sessional contacts would include a review of what other stressors may be present for the individual, outside of their condition-specific issues. When required, either direct contact with, or signposting to either hospital-based or community services to assist with financial concerns can be made.","answerHtml":"Across the region Trusts use a number of methods to ask patients with life-limiting conditions about their financial concerns.
As part of the Department of Health’s Case Management (2010) Guidance and using the Northern Ireland Single Assessment Tool (NISAT), an individuals’ finances are discussed on an annual basis (or more regularly as required) with all individuals. This includes those with life limiting conditions, in receipt of secondary care and known to a case manager. The NISAT incorporates a section on finances and this is covered within the initial assessment and at follow-up reviews as required. Finances are also discussed with individuals when required, specifically outside of assessment or planned reviews.
Trusts also have established long-standing partnerships with Macmillan Cancer Support in relation to their Benefits Advice Service, which referrals can be made to. The Macmillan Benefits service can advise on benefits and grants including the Macmillan grant and others. This service is offered via phone but a request can be made for face to face appointment. Alternatively, patients can contact the Macmillan Regional Benefits line. The Macmillan information and support service can advise on other forms of grant and financial support and will refer back to the Benefits Team where required.
Social Care professionals regularly ask patients with life-limiting conditions about their financial concerns, especially at key stages of their care; professionals are directed to do this via their assessment and review tools. Professionals often signpost patients to community organisations for support with their benefit applications to ensure they are getting their full benefit entitlement. In addition, social care professional staff will undertake a financial assessment with patients should they require placement in a care home environment. Consideration is also given to individuals’ financial capacity to manage their finances and legal orders are implemented to safeguard finances, when necessary.
A Holistic Needs Assessment (HNA) is offered to cancer patients by their Cancer Nurse Specialist (CNS). Using the HNA, the individual can share their holistic concerns including practical, emotional, physical, spiritual or financial concerns so that the CNS can address these needs through a bespoke personalised care plan including onward referral and support. The HNA is offered at various stages along the journey as required. At diagnosis stage each patient receives a core pack of various key support services and often most cancer patients are referred to the Macmillan Benefits at this stage by their CNS to provide access to information and support at the beginning of their journey.
Clinical Health Psychology Services provide input to individuals with a number of potentially life limiting conditions, including those with diagnosis of cancer, renal, and respiratory conditions. A biopsychosocial initial assessment is conducted which encompasses all areas of the individual’s life, with clinicians being acutely aware that social issues relating to financial hardship can have a significant impact on the person’s psychological wellbeing. All sessional contacts would include a review of what other stressors may be present for the individual, outside of their condition-specific issues. When required, either direct contact with, or signposting to either hospital-based or community services to assist with financial concerns can be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015514%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=411124","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=411124"}},{"id":"410356","reference":"AQW 15197/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the support he is providing to schools to better understand online safety; and (ii) how he is working with (a) the PSNI; and (b) industry professionals to provide specialist advice to schools in this area of work.","answerText":"My Department provides a range of supports to help schools better understand online safety, including learning resources for pupils and guidance on good practice for schools.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Curriculum outlines that pupils should be provided with opportunities to develop knowledge and understanding of e-safety and acceptable online behaviour and the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations Assessment (CCEA) has developed a number of Digital Well Being Resources which are available on the website. These cover all Key Stages and are monitored and updated as necessary.\n\nDepartment of Education (DE) Circular 2016/27 Online Safety provides a set of guiding principles for keeping pupils and the wider school community safe online and for prioritising online safety within the school’s preventative education curriculum and overall Safeguarding Policy. Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools also includes guidance on online safety and managing risks associated with the online world. This guidance is reviewed as necessary with input from a range of stakeholders, including the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) which provides specialist advice in relation to online safety. The guidance also includes references to the SBNI’s Online Safety Hub and resources developed by other industry professionals, such as the Southwest Grid for Learning’s online safety audit tool and PSNI’s resources on online safety.\n\nAdditionally, my Department has engaged with iNEQE Safeguarding Group to provide the Safer Schools Northern Ireland App to schools, parents/carers and pupils. The App provides advice, guidance and information on a range of safeguarding issues, with particular attention paid to risks in the online world, emerging social media platforms and online harms.","answerHtml":"My Department provides a range of supports to help schools better understand online safety, including learning resources for pupils and guidance on good practice for schools.
The Northern Ireland Curriculum outlines that pupils should be provided with opportunities to develop knowledge and understanding of e-safety and acceptable online behaviour and the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations Assessment (CCEA) has developed a number of Digital Well Being Resources which are available on the website. These cover all Key Stages and are monitored and updated as necessary.
Department of Education (DE) Circular 2016/27 Online Safety provides a set of guiding principles for keeping pupils and the wider school community safe online and for prioritising online safety within the school’s preventative education curriculum and overall Safeguarding Policy. Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools also includes guidance on online safety and managing risks associated with the online world. This guidance is reviewed as necessary with input from a range of stakeholders, including the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) which provides specialist advice in relation to online safety. The guidance also includes references to the SBNI’s Online Safety Hub and resources developed by other industry professionals, such as the Southwest Grid for Learning’s online safety audit tool and PSNI’s resources on online safety.
Additionally, my Department has engaged with iNEQE Safeguarding Group to provide the Safer Schools Northern Ireland App to schools, parents/carers and pupils. The App provides advice, guidance and information on a range of safeguarding issues, with particular attention paid to risks in the online world, emerging social media platforms and online harms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015197%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410356"}},{"id":"410355","reference":"AQW 15196/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he plans to create a care pathway for the early detection of liver disease; (ii) whether this pathway could be created via primary care.","answerText":"The current pathway for people identified in primary care with suspected liver disease is referral to secondary care services in their local Trust.\n\nSome initial discussions have taken place between colleagues in the Belfast Trust Hepatology Service and local primary care representatives around refinement to the local pathway for services provided in Belfast Trust, specifically around non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD).\n\nA pilot pathway has already been trialled with one GP practice. This involved:\n\nA GP identifying a patient with NAFLD and undertaking initial screening and then sending a referral to the Hepatology Service\n\nThe referral is triaged by a consultant and is either forwarded for a consultant clinical appointment or if appropriate to a nurse led clinic\n\nIf the appointment is triaged to a nurse led clinic a fibroscan is undertaken and the nurse can provide lifestyle advice regarding NAFLD\n\nIf there are any abnormal findings on the scan then the patient is referred on to a consultant clinic, if not then they are discharged back to their GP with appropriate advice.\n\nDue to the success of this pilot the Regional Liver Unit is now applying the criteria to NAFLD referrals from all Belfast Trust practices and is also exploring the implications for similar pathway arrangements in other Trust areas.","answerHtml":"The current pathway for people identified in primary care with suspected liver disease is referral to secondary care services in their local Trust.
Some initial discussions have taken place between colleagues in the Belfast Trust Hepatology Service and local primary care representatives around refinement to the local pathway for services provided in Belfast Trust, specifically around non-alcohol fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
A pilot pathway has already been trialled with one GP practice. This involved:
A GP identifying a patient with NAFLD and undertaking initial screening and then sending a referral to the Hepatology Service
The referral is triaged by a consultant and is either forwarded for a consultant clinical appointment or if appropriate to a nurse led clinic
If the appointment is triaged to a nurse led clinic a fibroscan is undertaken and the nurse can provide lifestyle advice regarding NAFLD
If there are any abnormal findings on the scan then the patient is referred on to a consultant clinic, if not then they are discharged back to their GP with appropriate advice.
Due to the success of this pilot the Regional Liver Unit is now applying the criteria to NAFLD referrals from all Belfast Trust practices and is also exploring the implications for similar pathway arrangements in other Trust areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015196%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410355"}},{"id":"410354","reference":"AQW 15195/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the steps being taken to ensure a joined-up, multi-agency response to paramilitary-related coercive control, especially in relation to intimate partner violence; (ii) the measures in place to support women attempting to exit coercive relationships that involve paramilitary groups; and (iii) how trauma-informed safety plans are being integrated into this process.","answerText":"There are a range of strategic initiatives in place that contribute to a joined up, multi-agency approach to supporting women and girls affected by paramilitary violence For example, the new Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) is designed to address the whole range of gender-based violence, abuse and harm which is disproportionately experienced by women and girls, including that inflicted by paramilitaries. In addition, the Departments of Health and Justice launched (on 25 September) the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. This aims to address all forms of domestic and sexual abuse.\n\nThe Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), for which I am lead Minister, also has in place a range of initiatives aimed at supporting women in areas most impacted by ongoing paramilitary activity. Programme officials are in close and regular contact with EVAWG officials to ensure that their efforts are aligned. They have also commissioned research to enable a better understanding of the impact of paramilitary harm on women, girls and young people; this has been shared widely and is available online.\n\nEPPOC also funds the Trauma Informed Approaches work undertaken by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI). While there is still work to be done to implement trauma informed approaches across Departments, agencies and systems, I welcome the ambition in the draft Programme for Government to understand the impact of trauma on our society, as well as the commitment in the new EVAWG Strategic Framework to taking a trauma informed approach.\n\nWhilst I am not aware specifically of trauma informed safety plans being implemented in Northern Ireland, there are various models of good practice in place within organisations that support women and children. Work will continue to ensure that trauma informed approaches are embedded so that we have a system that can listen and support people in a way that will have a lasting impact on society.","answerHtml":"There are a range of strategic initiatives in place that contribute to a joined up, multi-agency approach to supporting women and girls affected by paramilitary violence For example, the new Strategic Framework to End Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG) is designed to address the whole range of gender-based violence, abuse and harm which is disproportionately experienced by women and girls, including that inflicted by paramilitaries. In addition, the Departments of Health and Justice launched (on 25 September) the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy. This aims to address all forms of domestic and sexual abuse.
The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), for which I am lead Minister, also has in place a range of initiatives aimed at supporting women in areas most impacted by ongoing paramilitary activity. Programme officials are in close and regular contact with EVAWG officials to ensure that their efforts are aligned. They have also commissioned research to enable a better understanding of the impact of paramilitary harm on women, girls and young people; this has been shared widely and is available online.
EPPOC also funds the Trauma Informed Approaches work undertaken by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI). While there is still work to be done to implement trauma informed approaches across Departments, agencies and systems, I welcome the ambition in the draft Programme for Government to understand the impact of trauma on our society, as well as the commitment in the new EVAWG Strategic Framework to taking a trauma informed approach.
Whilst I am not aware specifically of trauma informed safety plans being implemented in Northern Ireland, there are various models of good practice in place within organisations that support women and children. Work will continue to ensure that trauma informed approaches are embedded so that we have a system that can listen and support people in a way that will have a lasting impact on society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015195%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410354"}},{"id":"410353","reference":"AQW 15194/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the actions being taken to counter the role of paramilitary groups in exerting coercive surveillance and control over women; and (ii) how statutory agencies are being trained to recognise and respond to such situations.","answerText":"One of the most challenging facets of paramilitary coercion of women is its hidden nature and the way it isolates people from the support they need. I was heartened to attend the launch of research by Dr Aisling Swayne and Foyle Women’s Aid recently because it details and records publicly women’s experiences of paramilitary sexual violence. Survivor testimony is critical if we are to understand and respond effectively to harms that have been hidden for far too long.\n\nThis work along with other research is helping to inform a number of initiatives that are in place which are contributing to addressing the issues you raise, including the Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), for which I am lead Minister. The Programme is active across Northern Ireland to support people and communities who are vulnerable to paramilitary influence and harm, with commitments being delivered collaboratively by Government Departments, statutory agencies and partners in the voluntary and community sector.\n\nInterventions delivered under the EPPOC Programme include those aimed specifically at supporting women in areas most impacted by ongoing paramilitary activity. In addition, EPPOC funds the Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF), a tripartite law enforcement agency which investigates the criminality of paramilitary groups. It is also the sole funder of the Safeguarding Board’s project on trauma-informed approaches. This ensures trauma informed approaches and toolkits are rolled out across the public, helping to ensure that all relevant agencies are aware of how trauma manifests and what can be done to address it. This is directly relevant to the issues you raise.\n\nOther strategic initiatives in this area include the Executive’s Strategic Framework to end Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG), which focuses on gender-based violence predominantly affecting women and girls; and the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, published by the Departments of Health and Justice (on 25 September) which aims to address all forms of domestic and sexual abuse. The draft Programme for Government also speaks to the importance of addressing these issues.","answerHtml":"One of the most challenging facets of paramilitary coercion of women is its hidden nature and the way it isolates people from the support they need. I was heartened to attend the launch of research by Dr Aisling Swayne and Foyle Women’s Aid recently because it details and records publicly women’s experiences of paramilitary sexual violence. Survivor testimony is critical if we are to understand and respond effectively to harms that have been hidden for far too long.
This work along with other research is helping to inform a number of initiatives that are in place which are contributing to addressing the issues you raise, including the Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), for which I am lead Minister. The Programme is active across Northern Ireland to support people and communities who are vulnerable to paramilitary influence and harm, with commitments being delivered collaboratively by Government Departments, statutory agencies and partners in the voluntary and community sector.
Interventions delivered under the EPPOC Programme include those aimed specifically at supporting women in areas most impacted by ongoing paramilitary activity. In addition, EPPOC funds the Paramilitary Crime Task Force (PCTF), a tripartite law enforcement agency which investigates the criminality of paramilitary groups. It is also the sole funder of the Safeguarding Board’s project on trauma-informed approaches. This ensures trauma informed approaches and toolkits are rolled out across the public, helping to ensure that all relevant agencies are aware of how trauma manifests and what can be done to address it. This is directly relevant to the issues you raise.
Other strategic initiatives in this area include the Executive’s Strategic Framework to end Violence Against Women and Girls (EVAWG), which focuses on gender-based violence predominantly affecting women and girls; and the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, published by the Departments of Health and Justice (on 25 September) which aims to address all forms of domestic and sexual abuse. The draft Programme for Government also speaks to the importance of addressing these issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015194%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410353"}},{"id":"410352","reference":"AQW 15193/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-17","answerBy":"2024-10-02","answered":"2024-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the specific interventions in place to protect children who are vulnerable to coercion or recruitment by paramilitary groups through their relationships with affected women.","answerText":"There are a number of initiatives that aim to support and protect children who are vulnerable to paramilitary influence, including in cases where women are victims/survivors of coercion and there are children who need to be protected from the harms in their environment. This has, for example, been a focus for the Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), for which I am lead Minister. The Programme includes a significant number of initiatives aimed specifically at supporting and increasing the resilience of, and protective factors around, young people who are most at risk of being coerced into becoming involved in paramilitary or criminal activity.\n\nRecognising that this is a clear case of child criminal exploitation (CCE), in 2022 EPPOC commissioned Queen’s University Belfast to detail children and young people’s experiences of CCE; this has informed my Department’s response to this issue. For example, the work plan of the Child Protection Senior Officials Group (CPSOG), led by DOJ and DOH, includes both Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE). CPSOG provides direction on existing or emerging child protection issues requiring cross-departmental consideration and co-ordination, including those relating to paramilitary coercion.\n\nWork is ongoing on the implementation of the recommendations of a CCE Task & Finish Group which reported to CPSOG in February 2023. The majority of this is being led by the Safeguarding Board for NI (SBNI), and SBNI has reconfigured its CSE subgroup to form a Child Exploitation Committee to further strengthen and co-ordinate the multi-agency system response to all forms of child exploitation.\n\nThis multi-agency SBNI subgroup is chaired by PSNI and includes Health Trusts, the Education Authority and the Youth Justice Agency among others.\n\nIn addition, my Department has developed a three-year Strategy (published in July) in relation to Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking & Child Exploitation. This includes a range of commitments and actions around improving operational responses and ensuring appropriate support is available to victims.","answerHtml":"There are a number of initiatives that aim to support and protect children who are vulnerable to paramilitary influence, including in cases where women are victims/survivors of coercion and there are children who need to be protected from the harms in their environment. This has, for example, been a focus for the Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC), for which I am lead Minister. The Programme includes a significant number of initiatives aimed specifically at supporting and increasing the resilience of, and protective factors around, young people who are most at risk of being coerced into becoming involved in paramilitary or criminal activity.
Recognising that this is a clear case of child criminal exploitation (CCE), in 2022 EPPOC commissioned Queen’s University Belfast to detail children and young people’s experiences of CCE; this has informed my Department’s response to this issue. For example, the work plan of the Child Protection Senior Officials Group (CPSOG), led by DOJ and DOH, includes both Child Criminal Exploitation (CCE) and Child Sexual Exploitation (CSE). CPSOG provides direction on existing or emerging child protection issues requiring cross-departmental consideration and co-ordination, including those relating to paramilitary coercion.
Work is ongoing on the implementation of the recommendations of a CCE Task & Finish Group which reported to CPSOG in February 2023. The majority of this is being led by the Safeguarding Board for NI (SBNI), and SBNI has reconfigured its CSE subgroup to form a Child Exploitation Committee to further strengthen and co-ordinate the multi-agency system response to all forms of child exploitation.
This multi-agency SBNI subgroup is chaired by PSNI and includes Health Trusts, the Education Authority and the Youth Justice Agency among others.
In addition, my Department has developed a three-year Strategy (published in July) in relation to Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking & Child Exploitation. This includes a range of commitments and actions around improving operational responses and ensuring appropriate support is available to victims.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015193%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410352"}},{"id":"410129","reference":"AQW 15087/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-09-19","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail her conversations with the UK government in relation to their decision to pause City and Growth Deals for Causeway Coast and Glens.","answerText":"I refer to the Written Ministerial Statement of 18 September.\n\nhttps://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/pausing-city-and-growth-deals-funding-commitment","answerHtml":"I refer to the Written Ministerial Statement of 18 September.
https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/pausing-city-and-growth-deals-funding-commitment
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015087%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410129","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410129"}},{"id":"410128","reference":"AQW 15086/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether her Department takes consideration of the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 when assessing the impact and effectiveness of legislation related to domestic abuse.","answerText":"My department is bound by the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, which requires us to take into account the needs of rural communities in all our activities and decisions. Therefore, when introducing legislation related to domestic abuse it will go through an assessment to evaluate the effectiveness and impact for those living in rural areas.\n\nThrough the recently published Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, I am committed to ensuring that support services are available and accessible to everyone affected by domestic abuse, regardless of their circumstances or location. The Strategy’s integrated performance framework will help us to measure success against this outcome.\n\nIn addition, my Department is responsible for preparing a report on the operation of Part 1 of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings (DACP) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, scheduled for publication in June 2025.\n\nThe report will provide a comprehensive overview of various data points, including the number of domestic abuse offences recorded by the PSNI, broken down by police district, the number prosecutions and convictions, and the average time taken to resolve cases. The report will include details on the level of training provided, how court proceedings are organised, the experience of witnesses in court, and any other relevant information deemed appropriate by the Department.\n\nAdditionally, the report will feature a section dedicated to examining the impact and effectiveness of the DACP Act on victims residing in rural areas. To gather meaningful insights for this section, we will collaborate with support organisations that work directly with rural victims.","answerHtml":"My department is bound by the Rural Needs Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, which requires us to take into account the needs of rural communities in all our activities and decisions. Therefore, when introducing legislation related to domestic abuse it will go through an assessment to evaluate the effectiveness and impact for those living in rural areas.
Through the recently published Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, I am committed to ensuring that support services are available and accessible to everyone affected by domestic abuse, regardless of their circumstances or location. The Strategy’s integrated performance framework will help us to measure success against this outcome.
In addition, my Department is responsible for preparing a report on the operation of Part 1 of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings (DACP) Act (Northern Ireland) 2021, scheduled for publication in June 2025.
The report will provide a comprehensive overview of various data points, including the number of domestic abuse offences recorded by the PSNI, broken down by police district, the number prosecutions and convictions, and the average time taken to resolve cases. The report will include details on the level of training provided, how court proceedings are organised, the experience of witnesses in court, and any other relevant information deemed appropriate by the Department.
Additionally, the report will feature a section dedicated to examining the impact and effectiveness of the DACP Act on victims residing in rural areas. To gather meaningful insights for this section, we will collaborate with support organisations that work directly with rural victims.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015086%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410128"}},{"id":"410127","reference":"AQW 15085/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the effectiveness of non-molestation orders when perpetrators with an active order are allowed to work on family farms where victims reside.","answerText":"A non-molestation order prohibits the party against whom it is made from “molesting” the party protected by the order. It is for a court to determine the terms of an order and whether any subsequent behaviour amounts to a breach of it.\n\nNon-molestation orders are effective in that they provide victims with protection against a wide range of behaviours, including serious pestering and harassment, and in some cases they may prohibit specific acts. An order can also exclude the respondent from a defined area in which a dwelling-house is included, any other defined area, and any premises specified in the order, and this may be a way of providing additional protection to a victim.\n\nA party who has obtained a non-molestation order and is concerned that they are not adequately protected by the terms of the order, may apply to the court to seek a variation.\n\nBreach of a non-molestation order is a criminal offence punishable by a fine, imprisonment or both.\n\nIt is important to note that unless specifically provided for under the terms of the non-molestation order, it generally does not prohibit all forms of contact with the victim, or being in the same general vicinity as them, unless these actions are of themselves molesting.","answerHtml":"A non-molestation order prohibits the party against whom it is made from “molesting” the party protected by the order. It is for a court to determine the terms of an order and whether any subsequent behaviour amounts to a breach of it.
Non-molestation orders are effective in that they provide victims with protection against a wide range of behaviours, including serious pestering and harassment, and in some cases they may prohibit specific acts. An order can also exclude the respondent from a defined area in which a dwelling-house is included, any other defined area, and any premises specified in the order, and this may be a way of providing additional protection to a victim.
A party who has obtained a non-molestation order and is concerned that they are not adequately protected by the terms of the order, may apply to the court to seek a variation.
Breach of a non-molestation order is a criminal offence punishable by a fine, imprisonment or both.
It is important to note that unless specifically provided for under the terms of the non-molestation order, it generally does not prohibit all forms of contact with the victim, or being in the same general vicinity as them, unless these actions are of themselves molesting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015085%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410127"}},{"id":"410126","reference":"AQW 15084/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what plans he has to increase funding for Community Transport to enable service users to make use of more than two journeys per week; and (ii) whether he has any plans to conduct a wider review of transport, including (a) public transport; (b) health and social care transport; and (c) community transport, to maximise travel options in rural areas.","answerText":"I recognise the value of community transport services to those who use them in our rural and urban areas. Following consideration of the Budget Equality Impact Assessment Consultation responses, and in conjunction with the June monitoring round, I have increased funding for these services by 4.2% based on the levels awarded in 2023/24. This increase is not as much as I would like to provide but it is a significant increase and will hopefully help alleviate some of the pressures faced by service providers.\n\nOfficials are currently preparing a new Transport Strategy and a new suite of Transport Plans that will set the framework for transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035. The suite of Transport Plans will not consider changes to Community Transport operations as these matters are being considered separately by the Department at a regional level and will be integrated into the Plans as appropriate. Health and Social Care Transport is the responsibility for the Department of Health. However, the Transport Plans will consider access, including by Public Transport, to the main Health and Social Care facilities.\n\nI am keen to progress a NI-wide phased review of the Public Transport Network. I am pleased that the first part of this has commenced with a review of the Ulsterbus network, including school transport provision. The review will balance efficiency with the need to facilitate modal shift from private cars to public transport whilst taking account of our economic and transport policies to deliver a financially sustainable and accessible network.\n\nI recently met with Executive colleagues to explore if community transport can support other transport activities across government. I am also considering the first phase of a Community Transport Review, which is examining how to support the delivery of community transport, including in rural areas, and ensure that we make the most effective use of the funding that is available.","answerHtml":"I recognise the value of community transport services to those who use them in our rural and urban areas. Following consideration of the Budget Equality Impact Assessment Consultation responses, and in conjunction with the June monitoring round, I have increased funding for these services by 4.2% based on the levels awarded in 2023/24. This increase is not as much as I would like to provide but it is a significant increase and will hopefully help alleviate some of the pressures faced by service providers.
Officials are currently preparing a new Transport Strategy and a new suite of Transport Plans that will set the framework for transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035. The suite of Transport Plans will not consider changes to Community Transport operations as these matters are being considered separately by the Department at a regional level and will be integrated into the Plans as appropriate. Health and Social Care Transport is the responsibility for the Department of Health. However, the Transport Plans will consider access, including by Public Transport, to the main Health and Social Care facilities.
I am keen to progress a NI-wide phased review of the Public Transport Network. I am pleased that the first part of this has commenced with a review of the Ulsterbus network, including school transport provision. The review will balance efficiency with the need to facilitate modal shift from private cars to public transport whilst taking account of our economic and transport policies to deliver a financially sustainable and accessible network.
I recently met with Executive colleagues to explore if community transport can support other transport activities across government. I am also considering the first phase of a Community Transport Review, which is examining how to support the delivery of community transport, including in rural areas, and ensure that we make the most effective use of the funding that is available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015084%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410126"}},{"id":"410125","reference":"AQW 15083/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-16","answerBy":"2024-10-01","answered":"2024-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what he is doing to support unpaid carers in rural areas (i) financially; and (ii) practically.","answerText":"Supporting unpaid carers remains a priority for my Department. I recognise that carers, particularly in rural areas, often face unique challenges, both financially and practically, due to geographic isolation and limited access to services.\n\nMy Department offers support to those unpaid carers in a number of ways. While the primary financial support for unpaid carers, such as Carer’s Allowance, is set by UK government, additional small grants are available to help carers via local Trusts. Following a Carers Assessment, based on the outcomes and assessed need, carers can receive one off payments of up to £100 to encourage them to prioritise their health and wellbeing, and to encourage them to take a break from their caring role.\n\nIn addition to financial assistance, the Department provides practical support measures to unpaid carers in rural areas. The South Eastern Trust Carer Support Service, is one such example, offering information sessions, activities, and events for carers throughout the year. Recognising the isolation faced by many rural carers, these sessions are delivered both in person and online, providing flexibility for those who cannot leave their loved ones. Local carer information hubs have been established in remote areas such as Portaferry, Drumaness, and Moira, bringing resources directly to carers. In the Peninsula area, partnerships have been established between GP practices and social work teams to create support groups, organise health and wellbeing events and deliver self-care sessions. Walking tours in rural areas also offer carers an opportunity to connect with others and they can help with their mental health.\n\nRespite care remains an important part of our support for unpaid carers in rural areas. Health and Social Care Trusts provide access to various respite services including residential and home-based care, day centres and emergency respite care. Carers are encouraged to undergo a Carers Assessment, which can determine the level of support they require. Following the assessment, carers can access short-term breaks, counselling services and other practical supports. Trusts like the Belfast Trust also provide a Carers Support Service, offering resources such as a Carer ID card, complementary therapies, and support groups tailored to different carer needs.\n\nUnpaid carers, including those in rural areas, are encouraged to reach out to their local Trust’s Carers Hubs to find out more information and avail of the services available locally to them.","answerHtml":"Supporting unpaid carers remains a priority for my Department. I recognise that carers, particularly in rural areas, often face unique challenges, both financially and practically, due to geographic isolation and limited access to services.
My Department offers support to those unpaid carers in a number of ways. While the primary financial support for unpaid carers, such as Carer’s Allowance, is set by UK government, additional small grants are available to help carers via local Trusts. Following a Carers Assessment, based on the outcomes and assessed need, carers can receive one off payments of up to £100 to encourage them to prioritise their health and wellbeing, and to encourage them to take a break from their caring role.
In addition to financial assistance, the Department provides practical support measures to unpaid carers in rural areas. The South Eastern Trust Carer Support Service, is one such example, offering information sessions, activities, and events for carers throughout the year. Recognising the isolation faced by many rural carers, these sessions are delivered both in person and online, providing flexibility for those who cannot leave their loved ones. Local carer information hubs have been established in remote areas such as Portaferry, Drumaness, and Moira, bringing resources directly to carers. In the Peninsula area, partnerships have been established between GP practices and social work teams to create support groups, organise health and wellbeing events and deliver self-care sessions. Walking tours in rural areas also offer carers an opportunity to connect with others and they can help with their mental health.
Respite care remains an important part of our support for unpaid carers in rural areas. Health and Social Care Trusts provide access to various respite services including residential and home-based care, day centres and emergency respite care. Carers are encouraged to undergo a Carers Assessment, which can determine the level of support they require. Following the assessment, carers can access short-term breaks, counselling services and other practical supports. Trusts like the Belfast Trust also provide a Carers Support Service, offering resources such as a Carer ID card, complementary therapies, and support groups tailored to different carer needs.
Unpaid carers, including those in rural areas, are encouraged to reach out to their local Trust’s Carers Hubs to find out more information and avail of the services available locally to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015083%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=410125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=410125"}},{"id":"409804","reference":"AQW 14909/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-27","answered":"2024-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the criteria for determining when prisons are considered overcrowded, including available staff and prison population; and (ii) any projections that have been carried out in relation to the likelihood of prisons becoming overcrowded in the next 12 months.","answerText":"Whether or not a prison is overcrowded takes into account a number of dynamic and interrelated factors. These include the total and the breakdown of the population, what accommodation is open, staff availability, the level of regime that can be delivered, and the extent of cell-sharing.\n\nWhilst the Northern Ireland prison population is not presenting the same immediate risks as in other jurisdictions, it is challenging, and NIPS are highly vigilant to the population trend in the remaining months of this year.","answerHtml":"Whether or not a prison is overcrowded takes into account a number of dynamic and interrelated factors. These include the total and the breakdown of the population, what accommodation is open, staff availability, the level of regime that can be delivered, and the extent of cell-sharing.
Whilst the Northern Ireland prison population is not presenting the same immediate risks as in other jurisdictions, it is challenging, and NIPS are highly vigilant to the population trend in the remaining months of this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014909%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409804"}},{"id":"409803","reference":"AQW 14908/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-27","answered":"2024-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they have considered a trauma informed and trauma resilient approach for Northern Ireland, similar to the National Trauma Transformation Programme led by the Scottish government.","answerText":"We are committed to embedding trauma-informed approaches within the work of our department and the wider public sector. In the draft Programme for Government, which is currently out for public consultation, we have committed to developing a trauma-informed public sector and understanding the impact of trauma in society.\n\nA Trauma Informed Practice team in the Safeguarding Board (SBNI) is funded by the cross-Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime. The SBNI’s Trauma Informed Practice Implementation managers will continue to support member and partner agencies to embed Trauma Informed Approaches building on existing knowledge of adversity and trauma.\n\nWithin The Executive Office, the vision of our new Strategy for Victims and Survivors of the Troubles/Conflict 2024-2034 is to be ‘a trauma informed society that addresses the needs of victims and survivors.’ We are also pleased that the Victims and Survivors Service recently became the first organisation here to be accredited with a Silver ‘Trauma-Informed: Working with Trauma Quality Mark’, offering formal recognition of the VSS trauma-informed approach.\n\nIn addition, a key principle of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework is that the work under the Framework should be trauma informed.","answerHtml":"We are committed to embedding trauma-informed approaches within the work of our department and the wider public sector. In the draft Programme for Government, which is currently out for public consultation, we have committed to developing a trauma-informed public sector and understanding the impact of trauma in society.
A Trauma Informed Practice team in the Safeguarding Board (SBNI) is funded by the cross-Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime. The SBNI’s Trauma Informed Practice Implementation managers will continue to support member and partner agencies to embed Trauma Informed Approaches building on existing knowledge of adversity and trauma.
Within The Executive Office, the vision of our new Strategy for Victims and Survivors of the Troubles/Conflict 2024-2034 is to be ‘a trauma informed society that addresses the needs of victims and survivors.’ We are also pleased that the Victims and Survivors Service recently became the first organisation here to be accredited with a Silver ‘Trauma-Informed: Working with Trauma Quality Mark’, offering formal recognition of the VSS trauma-informed approach.
In addition, a key principle of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework is that the work under the Framework should be trauma informed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014908%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409803"}},{"id":"409802","reference":"AQW 14907/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-27","answered":"2024-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any consideration she has given to a prisoner early release scheme, similar to that in England and Wales, including the criteria for release under such a scheme and undertaking engagement with victims and survivors.","answerText":"While I regularly review these matters, particularly in relation to prison population management, I am not giving consideration to a prisoner early release scheme similar to that in England and Wales.","answerHtml":"While I regularly review these matters, particularly in relation to prison population management, I am not giving consideration to a prisoner early release scheme similar to that in England and Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014907%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409802"}},{"id":"409801","reference":"AQW 14906/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-27","answered":"2024-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has undertaken an assessment of the impact a prisoner early release scheme will have on the aims and objectives of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.","answerText":"I am not currently considering a prisoner early release scheme in Northern Ireland and therefore, have not had cause to assess any impact such a scheme may have on the aims and objectives of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.","answerHtml":"I am not currently considering a prisoner early release scheme in Northern Ireland and therefore, have not had cause to assess any impact such a scheme may have on the aims and objectives of the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategic Framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014906%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409801","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409801"}},{"id":"409800","reference":"AQW 14905/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-12","answerBy":"2024-09-27","answered":"2024-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has considered (i) the impact of his schools guidance for mobile phone on neurodiverse children and those with a medical conditions who use their smartphone to manage and support their condition; (ii) a different approach for post-primary children and sixth form; (iii) programmes and apps on smartphones that were introduced during the pandemic and still in use.","answerText":"(i) The guidance focuses on restricting the use of personal mobile devices to ensure that all young people can fully engage in learning and participate in school life, free from unnecessary distractions. The guidance acknowledges that there may be exceptional circumstances and recognises that schools will wish to develop a bespoke and tailored approach dependent on the needs of their schools and individual pupils. The guidance does not provide an exhaustive list of exceptional circumstances and schools can assess each case on its own merits, however it could be expected that this would include pupils with medical conditions (including diabetes), Special Educational Needs or young carers.\n\n(ii) The guidance provides examples of different approaches on restricting the use of mobile phones and highlights positives and potential issues associated with each approach. The guidance specifically highlights the potential need for different approaches across primary and post primary. In addition, the specific needs of pupils in years 13 and 14 are referenced. Schools have been asked to revise existing policies accordingly to develop approaches that work for their own environment, consulting with the wider school community, including pupils and parents.\n\n(iii) The guidance is intended to focus on pupils’ personal use of mobile devices within the school environment rather than in any way prohibit or inhibit wider use of technology that have been introduced in schools to support learning. Schools are best placed to determine how such technology more broadly can effectively support learning and teaching for their pupils.","answerHtml":"(i) The guidance focuses on restricting the use of personal mobile devices to ensure that all young people can fully engage in learning and participate in school life, free from unnecessary distractions. The guidance acknowledges that there may be exceptional circumstances and recognises that schools will wish to develop a bespoke and tailored approach dependent on the needs of their schools and individual pupils. The guidance does not provide an exhaustive list of exceptional circumstances and schools can assess each case on its own merits, however it could be expected that this would include pupils with medical conditions (including diabetes), Special Educational Needs or young carers.
(ii) The guidance provides examples of different approaches on restricting the use of mobile phones and highlights positives and potential issues associated with each approach. The guidance specifically highlights the potential need for different approaches across primary and post primary. In addition, the specific needs of pupils in years 13 and 14 are referenced. Schools have been asked to revise existing policies accordingly to develop approaches that work for their own environment, consulting with the wider school community, including pupils and parents.
(iii) The guidance is intended to focus on pupils’ personal use of mobile devices within the school environment rather than in any way prohibit or inhibit wider use of technology that have been introduced in schools to support learning. Schools are best placed to determine how such technology more broadly can effectively support learning and teaching for their pupils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014905%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409800"}},{"id":"409670","reference":"AQW 14825/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-11","answerBy":"2024-09-19","answered":"2024-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on childcare support measures for school age children.","answerText":"With the limited budget provided by the Executive for early learning and childcare in 2024/25, I have sought to target support at those who need it most. As parents of pre-school aged children tend to be the highest users of childcare and incur the greatest costs, this is where my initial focus has been. This is also the period when decisions are often taken by mothers to leave the labour market or reduce their hours, establishing employment patterns which have a lasting impact on their careers and incomes.\n\nThe package of early learning and childcare measures currently being implemented will be evaluated alongside data collected from both parents and providers to inform any future interventions, including for school age childcare.\n\nI will be making a strong case to my Executive colleagues for the funding required to sustain and expand early learning and childcare provision in future years.","answerHtml":"With the limited budget provided by the Executive for early learning and childcare in 2024/25, I have sought to target support at those who need it most. As parents of pre-school aged children tend to be the highest users of childcare and incur the greatest costs, this is where my initial focus has been. This is also the period when decisions are often taken by mothers to leave the labour market or reduce their hours, establishing employment patterns which have a lasting impact on their careers and incomes.
The package of early learning and childcare measures currently being implemented will be evaluated alongside data collected from both parents and providers to inform any future interventions, including for school age childcare.
I will be making a strong case to my Executive colleagues for the funding required to sustain and expand early learning and childcare provision in future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014825%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409670"}},{"id":"409669","reference":"AQW 14824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-11","answerBy":"2024-09-26","answered":"2024-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for an update on public services transformation; (ii) whether the Public Service Transformation Board has approved the 2024-25 of £47 million to be released by the UK government; and (iii) to detail the Executive’s plans and timeline for this year’s funding.","answerText":"The Executive agreed to my proposal for an interim Transformation Programme on 9 May. I quickly established the interim Public Sector Transformation Board, who are giving consideration to proposals to utilise the transformation funding from the financial package.\n\nThe interim Board’s role is to provide advice to me, after it completes its assessment of proposals, indicating those it considers to be transformative. I will then bring recommendations to the Executive. It is important that the interim Board is given the space to carry out its work.\n\nThe interim Board has completed its first stage assessment. 47 proposals were received in total. 29 proposals are continuing to move forward, 11 of which have moved to a Stage 2 assessment, 18 others have been included within a Digital Landscape Review, which will conclude later this year.\n\nA final terms of reference is to be agreed for the Public Sector Transformation Board, recognising the appropriate parameters and responsibilities for transformation locally. My officials are continuing to press for progress with their British counterparts so that there is no undue delay in allocating this critical funding.\n\nClearly £235m of transformation funding, across 5 years, will in no way tackle the magnitude of the issues at hand. However, reform and transformation cannot just be about money and how it is allocated. The focus also needs to be on what we do, how we do it, and being held to account for the results we achieve. To ensure we lay the foundations for this scale of change, a new Reform and Transformation Unit will be established by the Executive Office.","answerHtml":"The Executive agreed to my proposal for an interim Transformation Programme on 9 May. I quickly established the interim Public Sector Transformation Board, who are giving consideration to proposals to utilise the transformation funding from the financial package.
The interim Board’s role is to provide advice to me, after it completes its assessment of proposals, indicating those it considers to be transformative. I will then bring recommendations to the Executive. It is important that the interim Board is given the space to carry out its work.
The interim Board has completed its first stage assessment. 47 proposals were received in total. 29 proposals are continuing to move forward, 11 of which have moved to a Stage 2 assessment, 18 others have been included within a Digital Landscape Review, which will conclude later this year.
A final terms of reference is to be agreed for the Public Sector Transformation Board, recognising the appropriate parameters and responsibilities for transformation locally. My officials are continuing to press for progress with their British counterparts so that there is no undue delay in allocating this critical funding.
Clearly £235m of transformation funding, across 5 years, will in no way tackle the magnitude of the issues at hand. However, reform and transformation cannot just be about money and how it is allocated. The focus also needs to be on what we do, how we do it, and being held to account for the results we achieve. To ensure we lay the foundations for this scale of change, a new Reform and Transformation Unit will be established by the Executive Office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409669"}},{"id":"409668","reference":"AQW 14823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-11","answerBy":"2024-09-26","answered":"2024-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the rationale for proposals of Health Measures in Relation to Persons in the new Public Health Bill for Northern Ireland; (ii) whether he has considered another approach that does not legally impose proposed restrictions or requirements; (iii) how these proposals impact on (a) human rights; and (b) data protection; and (iv) the risk of not moving on these proposals.","answerText":"The existing Public Health Act 1967 is no longer fit for purpose and requires modernisation to enable NI to respond appropriately to 21st century public health emergencies. The overarching principle of the proposed legislation is to protect the population against threats to public health.\n\nHealth measures in relation to persons are intended for use only in the rare event that voluntary cooperation to avert a health risk cannot be secured and where other methods of control have been exhausted or are deemed ineffective, unsuitable or disproportionate to the risk involved. A decision to action such powers by way of regulations would be subject to public health advice and would require Executive and Assembly approval.\n\nStriking an appropriate balance between protecting public health and respecting personal freedom is at the core of the policy proposals. Existing public health legislation largely predates contemporary human rights and data protection legislation. The proposals comply with these laws by incorporating a robust range of protections and safeguards, in addition to an underpinning requirement that any action taken must be proportionate to the risk presented.\n\nA failure to replace our outdated public health legislation leaves NI misaligned with other regions of the UK and poorly equipped to deal with a future public health emergency.","answerHtml":"The existing Public Health Act 1967 is no longer fit for purpose and requires modernisation to enable NI to respond appropriately to 21st century public health emergencies. The overarching principle of the proposed legislation is to protect the population against threats to public health.
Health measures in relation to persons are intended for use only in the rare event that voluntary cooperation to avert a health risk cannot be secured and where other methods of control have been exhausted or are deemed ineffective, unsuitable or disproportionate to the risk involved. A decision to action such powers by way of regulations would be subject to public health advice and would require Executive and Assembly approval.
Striking an appropriate balance between protecting public health and respecting personal freedom is at the core of the policy proposals. Existing public health legislation largely predates contemporary human rights and data protection legislation. The proposals comply with these laws by incorporating a robust range of protections and safeguards, in addition to an underpinning requirement that any action taken must be proportionate to the risk presented.
A failure to replace our outdated public health legislation leaves NI misaligned with other regions of the UK and poorly equipped to deal with a future public health emergency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409668"}},{"id":"409667","reference":"AQW 14822/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-11","answerBy":"2024-09-26","answered":"2024-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) how he ensures public sector organisations are following best workplace practices in relation to misconduct of employees; (ii) how other employees and organisational stakeholders are protected when misconduct impacts upon them; and (iii) whether he has considered developing a workplace handbook for public sector organisations to ensure consistency and best practice.","answerText":"The Labour Relations Agency (LRA) provides a range of free guidance documents and templates for all employers, including public sector employers, which set out the best practice approach when developing and establishing workplace policies, and addressing workplace issues.\n\nThese documents also set out the duties and responsibilities of employers to their employees when another employee is being investigated or disciplined for misconduct. Further advice and guidance for employers and employees can be found on the NI Direct and NI Business Info websites respectively.\n\nWhilst these guides are a useful resource for all employers, it is ultimately a matter for each employer to design policies and implement practices which best suit their organisational structure and needs, whilst adhering to legal requirements.\n\nEmployees who wish to report malpractice or wrongdoing in the workplace can make a disclosure to the employer or ‘whistleblow’ to a prescribed person or body, which can ensure an individual’s employment rights are protected.\n\nFinally, any employee who believes they have been unfairly treated may be able to complain to an Industrial Tribunal. Anyone who finds themselves in this position may wish to consider contacting the LRA’s Workplace Information Service on 03300 555 300 for confidential and impartial information.\n\nIn addition, the Law Centre NI also provides free, independent, specialist legal advice (subject to capacity) on employment rights. The Law Centre can be contacted on their advice line on 028 9024 4401 or by email: employmentadvice@lawcentreni.org.","answerHtml":"The Labour Relations Agency (LRA) provides a range of free guidance documents and templates for all employers, including public sector employers, which set out the best practice approach when developing and establishing workplace policies, and addressing workplace issues.
These documents also set out the duties and responsibilities of employers to their employees when another employee is being investigated or disciplined for misconduct. Further advice and guidance for employers and employees can be found on the NI Direct and NI Business Info websites respectively.
Whilst these guides are a useful resource for all employers, it is ultimately a matter for each employer to design policies and implement practices which best suit their organisational structure and needs, whilst adhering to legal requirements.
Employees who wish to report malpractice or wrongdoing in the workplace can make a disclosure to the employer or ‘whistleblow’ to a prescribed person or body, which can ensure an individual’s employment rights are protected.
Finally, any employee who believes they have been unfairly treated may be able to complain to an Industrial Tribunal. Anyone who finds themselves in this position may wish to consider contacting the LRA’s Workplace Information Service on 03300 555 300 for confidential and impartial information.
In addition, the Law Centre NI also provides free, independent, specialist legal advice (subject to capacity) on employment rights. The Law Centre can be contacted on their advice line on 028 9024 4401 or by email: employmentadvice@lawcentreni.org.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014822%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409667"}},{"id":"409666","reference":"AQW 14821/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-11","answerBy":"2024-09-26","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQO 744/22-27, (i) whether her Department had considered potential implementation costs upon commissioning Judge Burgess’ review; and (ii) for her assessment of whether appropriate funding will be secured for an implementation plan in this mandate.","answerText":"When commissioning the review of Criminal Legal Aid the Department did not ask His Honour Tom Burgess CBE to consider proposals within any funding envelope. To do so would have constrained the scope of recommendations he could make.\n\nHowever, once my officials have reviewed the report and I have clarity on the resource and consequential impact of each of the recommendations, I will know if additional funding is required and will make the appropriate bid at that time.\n\nI continue to seek a fair funding model for the Department within this mandate. Where the budget provided to my Department does not support the delivery of a justice system that citizens need, I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to secure the necessary additional funds.","answerHtml":"When commissioning the review of Criminal Legal Aid the Department did not ask His Honour Tom Burgess CBE to consider proposals within any funding envelope. To do so would have constrained the scope of recommendations he could make.
However, once my officials have reviewed the report and I have clarity on the resource and consequential impact of each of the recommendations, I will know if additional funding is required and will make the appropriate bid at that time.
I continue to seek a fair funding model for the Department within this mandate. Where the budget provided to my Department does not support the delivery of a justice system that citizens need, I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to secure the necessary additional funds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409666","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409666"}},{"id":"409493","reference":"AQW 14727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-10","answerBy":"2024-09-25","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they will work with the Minister of Health to (i) recognise the lifelong legacy for victims and survivors of Historical Institutional Childhood Abuse; and (ii) ensure adequate lifelong support from Health and Social Care services.","answerText":"One of the recommendations of the Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) Inquiry report was that services should be made available to HIA victims and survivors for a fixed period of ten years, with a review taking place after five years.\n\nA support service for HIA victims and survivors, facilitated by the Victims and Survivors Service, commenced in December 2020. A review will therefore be due in 2025.\n\nThe Commissioner is also currently undertaking a consultation to look at current and future services for HIA victims and survivors.\n\nThe feedback from the consultation and the review, along with advice from the Commissioner’s Advisory Panel, once established, will inform the design and shape of future support services.","answerHtml":"One of the recommendations of the Historical Institutional Abuse (HIA) Inquiry report was that services should be made available to HIA victims and survivors for a fixed period of ten years, with a review taking place after five years.
A support service for HIA victims and survivors, facilitated by the Victims and Survivors Service, commenced in December 2020. A review will therefore be due in 2025.
The Commissioner is also currently undertaking a consultation to look at current and future services for HIA victims and survivors.
The feedback from the consultation and the review, along with advice from the Commissioner’s Advisory Panel, once established, will inform the design and shape of future support services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409493"}},{"id":"409492","reference":"AQW 14726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-10","answerBy":"2024-09-25","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any plans they have to support victims and survivors of non-recent childhood abuse that fall outside the settings of Historical Institutional Abuse, including public facilitated foster care settings.","answerText":"We recognise the devastating impact that all forms of childhood abuse has on victims and survivors.\n\nWhile foster care more broadly is a matter for the Department for Health, as part of the implementation of the recommendations being taken forward by TEO’s Truth Recovery Programme, to date the Victims and Survivors Service has provided a range of practical, emotional and therapeutic services and support to those victims and survivors affected by the pathways and practices of Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses (1922-1995). This includes those children, now adults, who were both adopted and moved into foster care settings.\n\nWe have also commissioned research to examine the extent and systemic nature of Historical Clerical Child Abuse here. The purpose of the research is to enable the provision of informed, evidence-based recommendations to Ministers on any future action required regarding non-recent child abuse within the faith sector.\n\nInformation relating to health and social care services support to victims of abuse, including childhood abuse, should be sought from the Department of Health. Information relating to support available relating to criminal justice processes should be sought from the Department of Justice.","answerHtml":"We recognise the devastating impact that all forms of childhood abuse has on victims and survivors.
While foster care more broadly is a matter for the Department for Health, as part of the implementation of the recommendations being taken forward by TEO’s Truth Recovery Programme, to date the Victims and Survivors Service has provided a range of practical, emotional and therapeutic services and support to those victims and survivors affected by the pathways and practices of Mother and Baby Institutions, Magdalene Laundries and Workhouses (1922-1995). This includes those children, now adults, who were both adopted and moved into foster care settings.
We have also commissioned research to examine the extent and systemic nature of Historical Clerical Child Abuse here. The purpose of the research is to enable the provision of informed, evidence-based recommendations to Ministers on any future action required regarding non-recent child abuse within the faith sector.
Information relating to health and social care services support to victims of abuse, including childhood abuse, should be sought from the Department of Health. Information relating to support available relating to criminal justice processes should be sought from the Department of Justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409492"}},{"id":"409491","reference":"AQW 14725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-10","answerBy":"2024-09-25","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail their plans to review the office of the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse before the current commissioner’s role comes to an end.","answerText":"The HIA (NI) Act 2019 requires us to commission an independent person to review the operation of COSICA and produce a report which includes an assessment of whether there continues to be a need for the Commissioner.\n\nWe have appointed Professor Alexis Jay as the independent assessor to conduct the review, which is now underway. Professor Jay is working to Terms of Reference that were agreed following feedback from COSICA. Following some initial desk-based work, it is intended that Professor Jay will commence meetings with relevant stakeholders from October 2024, with a final report being submitted by the end of December 2024.","answerHtml":"The HIA (NI) Act 2019 requires us to commission an independent person to review the operation of COSICA and produce a report which includes an assessment of whether there continues to be a need for the Commissioner.
We have appointed Professor Alexis Jay as the independent assessor to conduct the review, which is now underway. Professor Jay is working to Terms of Reference that were agreed following feedback from COSICA. Following some initial desk-based work, it is intended that Professor Jay will commence meetings with relevant stakeholders from October 2024, with a final report being submitted by the end of December 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409491"}},{"id":"409490","reference":"AQW 14724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-10","answerBy":"2024-09-25","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they have any plans to conduct a further awareness campaign in Northern Ireland, Great Britain and internationally to encourage applications to the Historical Institutional Abuse Redress Scheme before it closes on 2 April 2025.","answerText":"We continue to build on previous awareness initiatives, which have included:\n\nadverts in local papers;\n\ndistribution of posters to relevant organisations, including courts and jobs and benefits offices;\n\na leaflet drop to every household here;\n\na digital media campaign;\n\nengagement with the Bureau in Washington to connect to organisations in America that support immigrants; and\n\nthe issue of promotional material to all local councils in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.\n\nA further digital media contract is to be awarded in September for more awareness raising activities over the coming months to again highlight the last date for applications to the redress scheme. We will also continue to distribute posters and leaflets to appropriate contacts, such as local chemists and libraries, and to engage with relevant stakeholders to raise awareness of the closure of the scheme to applications.","answerHtml":"We continue to build on previous awareness initiatives, which have included:
adverts in local papers;
distribution of posters to relevant organisations, including courts and jobs and benefits offices;
a leaflet drop to every household here;
a digital media campaign;
engagement with the Bureau in Washington to connect to organisations in America that support immigrants; and
the issue of promotional material to all local councils in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
A further digital media contract is to be awarded in September for more awareness raising activities over the coming months to again highlight the last date for applications to the redress scheme. We will also continue to distribute posters and leaflets to appropriate contacts, such as local chemists and libraries, and to engage with relevant stakeholders to raise awareness of the closure of the scheme to applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409490"}},{"id":"409489","reference":"AQW 14723/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-10","answerBy":"2024-09-25","answered":"2024-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they will consider conducting a population prevalence study of sexual abuse, including in childhood sexual abuse.","answerText":"We met the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse earlier this year. Among other topics, we discussed her proposal for research into the prevalence of non-recent child sexual abuse.\n\nThis will be taken into account as part of our consideration of the overall research needs of the Department.","answerHtml":"We met the Commissioner for Survivors of Institutional Childhood Abuse earlier this year. Among other topics, we discussed her proposal for research into the prevalence of non-recent child sexual abuse.
This will be taken into account as part of our consideration of the overall research needs of the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014723%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=409489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=409489"}},{"id":"408841","reference":"AQW 14352/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-03","answerBy":"2024-09-18","answered":"2024-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, further to his Department's decision to no longer fund housing adaptations for disabled tenants, (i) whether Housing Associations were informed of this change of policy; (ii) when this decision was taken; (iii) whether this decision was subject to an equality impact assessment; (iv) when this decision was subsequently reversed; and (v) the rationale for the reversal of this decision.","answerText":"The Disabled Facilities Grant has been prescribed as a mandatory grant in legislation since 2003 and at no stage has funding for this grant been removed.","answerHtml":"The Disabled Facilities Grant has been prescribed as a mandatory grant in legislation since 2003 and at no stage has funding for this grant been removed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014352%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408841"}},{"id":"408840","reference":"AQW 14351/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-03","answerBy":"2024-09-18","answered":"2024-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any initiatives in place to support women going through perimenopause and menopause; and (ii) whether he is considering the development of a menopause strategy that includes public education, healthcare training and workplace support.","answerText":"While not all women will need medical intervention for perimenopause and menopause, and most that do should be able to receive appropriate support and treatment from their GP, it is important that appropriate advice, information and specialist care are available where needed.\n\nThe Health and Social Care (HSC) Clinical Education Centre (CEC), in partnership with my Department, has this year commenced the successful delivery of a series of multi-professional educational webinars on menopause to raise awareness, share information and promote learning for health care professionals supporting women experiencing the menopause. The webinars have focused on specific aspects of menopause including the management of menopause in relation to primary care, cardiology, pelvic health, cancer and sexual health, and have been attended by a wide range of healthcare professions and organisations.\n\nThe Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) report on Gynaecology across NI, published in January this year, includes recommendations to improve and standardise advice and access to services in relation to menopause and other gynae-related issues. There are some good examples of menopause services and support within the Health and Social Care (HSC) system, however it is recognised that access and availability currently vary across the region. My Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) has established a Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum, with Trust and Public Health Agency representation, to oversee implementation of the report. This will include a Regional Engagement Forum to garner expert user feedback from stakeholders, including those suffering from menopause symptoms, and a Menopause Task and Finish Group to establish service needs and develop clinical pathways. It is recognised that some of the recommendations will require additional investment which is not currently available, and this will inevitably impact delivery.\n\nThe relevant NICE Clinical Guideline (NG23) on Menopause diagnosis and management, which my Department endorsed in 2016, aimed to improve the consistency of support and information provided to women. The Guideline is in the process of being updated, to include focus on managing urogenital atrophy, the long-term benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy for managing menopausal symptoms, and will be considered as part of the above work when published, however full implementation will also be subject to resources.\n\nVoluntary and community sector organisations can also play an important role in supporting women through perimenopause and menopause. For example, a new Northern Ireland charity, Menopause Together, was established in 2023 to help address the need for more education, support and awareness and to help empower women to make informed choices and feel supported on their menopause journey.\n\nDue to the severe financial constraints facing my Department and the absence of a multi-year budget, I am not considering any new long-term strategies which cannot be funded at this time. However, in relation to wider societal awareness and understanding about the impact of menopause on women’s health and wellbeing, it seems clear that much support can be provided to women in addition to health services, for example through education and employment policies. Many organisations including the Northern Ireland Civil Service, Health and Social Care and the Education Authority have workplace menopause policies in place to support staff in this regard.\n\nWhile there is currently no UK-wide government strategy in relation to menopause, the UK Menopause Taskforce was established in 2022 to strengthen coordination and raise awareness of the menopause and its impact across the UK, under the shared aim of improving care and support across all sectors. My predecessor, Departmental officials and NI clinicians have attended the Taskforce. It has encouraged the sharing of best practice across the UK to ensure that women are supported in every area as they navigate this stage of life.\n\nWith regard to public education, it is anticipated that the women’s health action plan which my Department is currently developing will include some commitments in relation to improving access to information on women’s health across the life-course, including on menopause and menstrual health. The extent to which a communications programme such as this can be delivered on a consistent and comprehensive basis will of course be proportionate to the availability of funding, however I agree that this is an area that can be improved upon.","answerHtml":"While not all women will need medical intervention for perimenopause and menopause, and most that do should be able to receive appropriate support and treatment from their GP, it is important that appropriate advice, information and specialist care are available where needed.
The Health and Social Care (HSC) Clinical Education Centre (CEC), in partnership with my Department, has this year commenced the successful delivery of a series of multi-professional educational webinars on menopause to raise awareness, share information and promote learning for health care professionals supporting women experiencing the menopause. The webinars have focused on specific aspects of menopause including the management of menopause in relation to primary care, cardiology, pelvic health, cancer and sexual health, and have been attended by a wide range of healthcare professions and organisations.
The Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) report on Gynaecology across NI, published in January this year, includes recommendations to improve and standardise advice and access to services in relation to menopause and other gynae-related issues. There are some good examples of menopause services and support within the Health and Social Care (HSC) system, however it is recognised that access and availability currently vary across the region. My Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) has established a Regional HSC Gynaecology Services Forum, with Trust and Public Health Agency representation, to oversee implementation of the report. This will include a Regional Engagement Forum to garner expert user feedback from stakeholders, including those suffering from menopause symptoms, and a Menopause Task and Finish Group to establish service needs and develop clinical pathways. It is recognised that some of the recommendations will require additional investment which is not currently available, and this will inevitably impact delivery.
The relevant NICE Clinical Guideline (NG23) on Menopause diagnosis and management, which my Department endorsed in 2016, aimed to improve the consistency of support and information provided to women. The Guideline is in the process of being updated, to include focus on managing urogenital atrophy, the long-term benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy for managing menopausal symptoms, and will be considered as part of the above work when published, however full implementation will also be subject to resources.
Voluntary and community sector organisations can also play an important role in supporting women through perimenopause and menopause. For example, a new Northern Ireland charity, Menopause Together, was established in 2023 to help address the need for more education, support and awareness and to help empower women to make informed choices and feel supported on their menopause journey.
Due to the severe financial constraints facing my Department and the absence of a multi-year budget, I am not considering any new long-term strategies which cannot be funded at this time. However, in relation to wider societal awareness and understanding about the impact of menopause on women’s health and wellbeing, it seems clear that much support can be provided to women in addition to health services, for example through education and employment policies. Many organisations including the Northern Ireland Civil Service, Health and Social Care and the Education Authority have workplace menopause policies in place to support staff in this regard.
While there is currently no UK-wide government strategy in relation to menopause, the UK Menopause Taskforce was established in 2022 to strengthen coordination and raise awareness of the menopause and its impact across the UK, under the shared aim of improving care and support across all sectors. My predecessor, Departmental officials and NI clinicians have attended the Taskforce. It has encouraged the sharing of best practice across the UK to ensure that women are supported in every area as they navigate this stage of life.
With regard to public education, it is anticipated that the women’s health action plan which my Department is currently developing will include some commitments in relation to improving access to information on women’s health across the life-course, including on menopause and menstrual health. The extent to which a communications programme such as this can be delivered on a consistent and comprehensive basis will of course be proportionate to the availability of funding, however I agree that this is an area that can be improved upon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014351%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408840"}},{"id":"408839","reference":"AQW 14350/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-03","answerBy":"2024-09-18","answered":"2024-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the steps being taken to increase awareness and support for menopause in the workplace; and (ii) how these efforts can be integrated into broader workplace health and well-being good practice.","answerText":"Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause which require the support, understanding and compassion of their employers. It is important therefore that employers are aware of their duty of care to their employees under health and safety law and the need to make reasonable adjustments to help employees managing their symptoms when performing their job.\n\nTo increase awareness and support for employers and their employees, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace health and well-being policies. Further guidance and support are available to employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.\n\nIn addition, good employers will have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause. Proposals to further strengthen the right to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill are subject to a live consultation.","answerHtml":"Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause which require the support, understanding and compassion of their employers. It is important therefore that employers are aware of their duty of care to their employees under health and safety law and the need to make reasonable adjustments to help employees managing their symptoms when performing their job.
To increase awareness and support for employers and their employees, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace health and well-being policies. Further guidance and support are available to employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.
In addition, good employers will have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause. Proposals to further strengthen the right to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill are subject to a live consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014350%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408839"}},{"id":"408838","reference":"AQW 14349/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-03","answerBy":"2024-09-18","answered":"2024-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any consideration being given to the development of a comprehensive women’s health strategy for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Due to the severe financial constraints facing my Department and the absence of a long term budget, I intend to focus during the remainder of this mandate on the actions that can be delivered within current resources to stabilise our Health and Social Care system and address the health inequalities that contribute to poor health outcomes.\n\nThere are a wide range of policy and service development initiatives in progress which aim to improve women's health services and outcomes. These will be highlighted in the women's health action plan which will outline my vision for what can be delivered during the current Assembly mandate.\n\nMy Department has provided funding of £10k to Derry Well Women, who in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, are undertaking a large-scale public listening exercise to ensure that women’s voices are heard and to help shape how services are delivered in the future. It is hoped that the first stage of this exercise – a women’s health survey – will be launched later in Autumn 2024. This, alongside the Women’s Health Action Plan will provide a focus and an evidence base for a long-term strategy, should the Executive decide to prioritise this in the future.","answerHtml":"Due to the severe financial constraints facing my Department and the absence of a long term budget, I intend to focus during the remainder of this mandate on the actions that can be delivered within current resources to stabilise our Health and Social Care system and address the health inequalities that contribute to poor health outcomes.
There are a wide range of policy and service development initiatives in progress which aim to improve women's health services and outcomes. These will be highlighted in the women's health action plan which will outline my vision for what can be delivered during the current Assembly mandate.
My Department has provided funding of £10k to Derry Well Women, who in partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, are undertaking a large-scale public listening exercise to ensure that women’s voices are heard and to help shape how services are delivered in the future. It is hoped that the first stage of this exercise – a women’s health survey – will be launched later in Autumn 2024. This, alongside the Women’s Health Action Plan will provide a focus and an evidence base for a long-term strategy, should the Executive decide to prioritise this in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014349%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408838"}},{"id":"408837","reference":"AQW 14348/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-03","answerBy":"2024-09-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 is being implemented to enhance healthcare support for victims of domestic abuse; and (ii) any further measures being considered to ensure that survivors receive the necessary medical and psychological care.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014348%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408837"}},{"id":"408698","reference":"AQW 14281/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-10","answered":"2024-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the cost of moving the winter fuel payments to a means-tested model; (ii) whether there is an application process for the new model; and (iii) how much less the new model will cost compared with the current model.","answerText":"Winter Fuel Payments are administered by the Department for Work and Pensions. Therefore, there is no cost to my Department from the move to a means-tested model in Northern Ireland. Means tested Winter Fuel Payments will be funded directly from HM Treasury and are outside the NI Block Grant.\n\nMost people get the Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they meet the eligibility criteria. An application is not needed if you get any of the following:\n\nPension Credit\n\nIncome Support\n\nIncome related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)\n\nIncome based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)\n\nPeople born before 23 September 1958 and who receive Universal Credit may need to claim and more information about how to do that can be found at - https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim\n\nMeans-testing Winter Fuel Payments under the new model will reduce Annually Managed Expenditure (AME) costs incurred by HM Treasury by approximately £44.3m for eligible Northern Ireland recipients. AME costs are funded directly from HM Treasury and are outside the NI Block Grant.","answerHtml":"Winter Fuel Payments are administered by the Department for Work and Pensions. Therefore, there is no cost to my Department from the move to a means-tested model in Northern Ireland. Means tested Winter Fuel Payments will be funded directly from HM Treasury and are outside the NI Block Grant.
Most people get the Winter Fuel Payment automatically if they meet the eligibility criteria. An application is not needed if you get any of the following:
Pension Credit
Income Support
Income related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA)
Income based Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA)
People born before 23 September 1958 and who receive Universal Credit may need to claim and more information about how to do that can be found at - https://www.gov.uk/winter-fuel-payment/how-to-claim
Means-testing Winter Fuel Payments under the new model will reduce Annually Managed Expenditure (AME) costs incurred by HM Treasury by approximately £44.3m for eligible Northern Ireland recipients. AME costs are funded directly from HM Treasury and are outside the NI Block Grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408698","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408698"}},{"id":"408697","reference":"AQW 14280/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current waiting time for children's autism assessments; (ii) whether the waiting time has increased in the last year; (iii) his plans to reduce assessment waiting times; and (iv) his assessment of delayed autism assessments on children’s development and consequent support available.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014280%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408697","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408697"}},{"id":"408696","reference":"AQW 14279/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":"2024-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the amount of funding allocated to local councils' animal welfare departments, in each of the last five years; and (ii) the specific animal welfare training local council staff are given to undertake inspections of and issue licences for dog breeding establishments.","answerText":"Local councils operate a collaborative, regional approach to deliver animal welfare enforcement services. Funding allocated for each of the five regions for the last five years is provided in the table below.\n\nLocal councils, as autonomous bodies, are responsible for the deployment, training and continuous professional development of their staff who undertake inspections and issue licences for dog breeding establishments; my Department has no role.\n\n2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nBelfast\nResource\nCapital\t£144,860.40\t£152,171.15\t£133,382.96\t£221,221.84\n£20,135.00\t£116,562.50\nEastern\nResource\nCapital\t£220,304.53\n£13,855.90\t£237,451.90\t£224,955.56\t£167,693.65\t£82,812.50\nNorthern\nResource\nCapital\t£345,122.28\n£17,561.98\t£294,332.51\t£357,056.41\t£387,261.26\n£44,000.00\t£170,000.00\nSouthern\nResource\nCapital\t£270,958.50\n£17,000.00\t£222,354.27\t£260,138.68\t£280,114.81\t£96,000.00\nWestern\nResource\nCapital\t£276,027.89\n£17,905.00\t£285,537.02\t£317,518.96\t£316,996.30\t£159,625.00\nTotal\nResource\nCapital\t£1,257,273.60\n£66,322.88\t£1,191,846.85\t£1,293,052.57\t£1,373,287.86\n£64,135.00\t£625,000.00","answerHtml":"Local councils operate a collaborative, regional approach to deliver animal welfare enforcement services. Funding allocated for each of the five regions for the last five years is provided in the table below.
Local councils, as autonomous bodies, are responsible for the deployment, training and continuous professional development of their staff who undertake inspections and issue licences for dog breeding establishments; my Department has no role.
| 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 | |
| Belfast Resource Capital | £144,860.40 | £152,171.15 | £133,382.96 | £221,221.84 £20,135.00 | £116,562.50 |
| Eastern Resource Capital | £220,304.53 £13,855.90 | £237,451.90 | £224,955.56 | £167,693.65 | £82,812.50 |
| Northern Resource Capital | £345,122.28 £17,561.98 | £294,332.51 | £357,056.41 | £387,261.26 £44,000.00 | £170,000.00 |
| Southern Resource Capital | £270,958.50 £17,000.00 | £222,354.27 | £260,138.68 | £280,114.81 | £96,000.00 |
| Western Resource Capital | £276,027.89 £17,905.00 | £285,537.02 | £317,518.96 | £316,996.30 | £159,625.00 |
| Total Resource Capital | £1,257,273.60 £66,322.88 | £1,191,846.85 | £1,293,052.57 | £1,373,287.86 £64,135.00 | £625,000.00 |
Council dog wardens are responsible for enforcing dog control legislation in Northern Ireland, including the new restrictions on owning XL Bully type dogs.
I have secured resource and will be providing support for training dog wardens, updating IT systems and other associated enforcement needs. My officials continue to meet regularly with Northern Ireland Dog Advisory Group, which represents council dog wardens, to discuss and monitor implementation of the legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408695"}},{"id":"408694","reference":"AQW 14277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-17","answered":"2024-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he plans to develop a TB eradication strategy similar to the UK Government’s plan for England where badgers will be vaccinated instead of culled.","answerText":"Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is one of the most challenging issues faced by the cattle farmers in Northern Ireland. Herd incidence currently stands at 10.09% and over £55million was spent on the control of bTB in cattle in the last financial year.\n\nA long-term Strategy to reduce and, ultimately eradicate bovine TB in Northern Ireland was launched in March 2022. However, a judicial review decision in October 2023 overturned the previous Minister’s decision to undertake a non-selective cull of badgers as part of the Strategy.\n\nThe Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, has commenced a review of matters relating to bTB programme and policy, including the actions contained in the Bovine TB Eradication Strategy. My Department is determined to tackle all factors in the maintenance and spread of this disease. Brian and his officials are working on options for my consideration including those relating to the role of wildlife in the spread of this disease.","answerHtml":"Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) is one of the most challenging issues faced by the cattle farmers in Northern Ireland. Herd incidence currently stands at 10.09% and over £55million was spent on the control of bTB in cattle in the last financial year.
A long-term Strategy to reduce and, ultimately eradicate bovine TB in Northern Ireland was launched in March 2022. However, a judicial review decision in October 2023 overturned the previous Minister’s decision to undertake a non-selective cull of badgers as part of the Strategy.
The Chief Veterinary Officer, Brian Dooher, has commenced a review of matters relating to bTB programme and policy, including the actions contained in the Bovine TB Eradication Strategy. My Department is determined to tackle all factors in the maintenance and spread of this disease. Brian and his officials are working on options for my consideration including those relating to the role of wildlife in the spread of this disease.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=408694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=408694"}},{"id":"447076","reference":"AQO 744/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-09-02","answerBy":"2024-09-09","answered":"2025-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the fundamental review of criminal legal aid in Northern Ireland, reported by Judge Burgess in August 2024.","answerText":"ORAL QUESTION No 8 – AQO 744/22-27\n\nANSWER\n\nThe report by His Honour Tom Burgess CBE on the fundamental review of Criminal Legal Aid in Northern Ireland was received on 23 August 2024. I want to take this opportunity to thank Judge Burgess for the report and his comprehensive engagement with a wide range of stakeholders to gather the evidence necessary to make his recommendations.\n\nMy officials are currently working through the report. Once this is complete and there is clarity on the resource and consequential impact of each of the recommendations, I will be engaging with Executive colleagues to bring forward an implementation plan and any necessary primary and secondary legislation.","answerHtml":"ORAL QUESTION No 8 – AQO 744/22-27
ANSWER
The report by His Honour Tom Burgess CBE on the fundamental review of Criminal Legal Aid in Northern Ireland was received on 23 August 2024. I want to take this opportunity to thank Judge Burgess for the report and his comprehensive engagement with a wide range of stakeholders to gather the evidence necessary to make his recommendations.
My officials are currently working through the report. Once this is complete and there is clarity on the resource and consequential impact of each of the recommendations, I will be engaging with Executive colleagues to bring forward an implementation plan and any necessary primary and secondary legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20744%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=447076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=447076"}},{"id":"407631","reference":"AQW 14213/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-05","answerBy":"2024-07-24","answered":"2024-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on any discussions he has had with (i) Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council; (ii) Sport NI; and (iii) Causeway Association of Urban Sports, in relation to the creation of a skate park in Portrush.","answerText":"I have not been involved in discussions with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council nor Causeway Association of Urban Sports (CAUS) regarding the creation of a skatepark in Portrush.\n\nHowever, my officials worked closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in recent years as part of the regeneration of the Portrush Recreation Grounds (PRG) at Ramore Avenue. The regeneration scheme, which completed in March 2023, includes an urban plaza that acts as a public space that can also accommodate skateboarding and other urban sports.\n\nWhile under the Recreation and Youth Service Order (NI) 1986 Article 10, local Councils have responsibility for the provision of recreational, social, physical and cultural facilities and activities, I sought the requested information from Sport NI, in relation to any discussions it may have had with either the Council or CAUS about the development of a skatepark in Portrush.\n\nAs this issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, I can confirm that its Chief Executive advised me as follows:\n\n“Sport NI Infrastructure Team has had no specific discussions with Causeway Coast & Glens Council regarding a skatepark in Portrush. During various conversations, the Council has mentioned a strong lobby (from urban sports groups) for a skatepark in Portrush, therefore Sport NI are aware of the potential demand. However, we have no information on project proposals or what stage those proposals are at.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact Sport NI directly. Making direct contact with Sport NI will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"I have not been involved in discussions with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council nor Causeway Association of Urban Sports (CAUS) regarding the creation of a skatepark in Portrush.
However, my officials worked closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in recent years as part of the regeneration of the Portrush Recreation Grounds (PRG) at Ramore Avenue. The regeneration scheme, which completed in March 2023, includes an urban plaza that acts as a public space that can also accommodate skateboarding and other urban sports.
While under the Recreation and Youth Service Order (NI) 1986 Article 10, local Councils have responsibility for the provision of recreational, social, physical and cultural facilities and activities, I sought the requested information from Sport NI, in relation to any discussions it may have had with either the Council or CAUS about the development of a skatepark in Portrush.
As this issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, I can confirm that its Chief Executive advised me as follows:
“Sport NI Infrastructure Team has had no specific discussions with Causeway Coast & Glens Council regarding a skatepark in Portrush. During various conversations, the Council has mentioned a strong lobby (from urban sports groups) for a skatepark in Portrush, therefore Sport NI are aware of the potential demand. However, we have no information on project proposals or what stage those proposals are at.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact Sport NI directly. Making direct contact with Sport NI will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014213%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407631","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407631"}},{"id":"407630","reference":"AQW 14212/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-05","answerBy":"2024-07-24","answered":"2024-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of cases of meningitis confirmed in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) the number of those cases that were aged under 18; (iii) the number of those cases that were fatal; and (iv) the current and developmental treatment options for each variety.","answerText":"Confirmed cases of meningitis in each Trust across the last five years\n\n2019\t2020\t2021\t2022\t2023\t2024\nBelfast Trust\t11\t0\t0\t4\t6\t5\nSouth Eastern Trust\t5\t1\t0\t3\t9\t2\nNorthern Trust\t3\t1\t1\t2\t5\t1\nSouthern Trust\t10\t1\t3\t1\t2\t0\nWestern Trust\t2\t0\t0\t0\t2\t3\n\nConfirmed cases of meningitis for those under the age of 18\n\n2019\t2020\t2021\t2022\t2023\t2024\nBelfast Trust\t5\t0\t0\t2\t4\t3\nSouth Eastern Trust\t2\t1\t0\t2\t1\t1\nNorthern Trust\t1\t1\t0\t2\t3\t0\nSouthern Trust\t6\t0\t3\t1\t1\t0\nWestern Trust\t0\t0\t0\t0\t2\t2\n\nDue to the risk of small cell disclosure this information is unable to be provided.\n\nThe following recent guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence may be of interest:\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng240\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng240/informationforpublic\n\nFurther information about meningococcal disease epidemiology is available in the PHA Vaccine-preventable Disease reports: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/annual-immunisation-and-vaccine-preventable-diseases-reports","answerHtml":"Confirmed cases of meningitis in each Trust across the last five years
| 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Belfast Trust | 11 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 6 | 5 |
| South Eastern Trust | 5 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 9 | 2 |
| Northern Trust | 3 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
| Southern Trust | 10 | 1 | 3 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Western Trust | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 |
Confirmed cases of meningitis for those under the age of 18
| 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 | 2024 | |
| Belfast Trust | 5 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 4 | 3 |
| South Eastern Trust | 2 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Northern Trust | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| Southern Trust | 6 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Western Trust | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 2 |
Due to the risk of small cell disclosure this information is unable to be provided.
The following recent guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence may be of interest:
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng240
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng240/informationforpublic
Further information about meningococcal disease epidemiology is available in the PHA Vaccine-preventable Disease reports: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/annual-immunisation-and-vaccine-preventable-diseases-reports
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014212%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407630","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407630"}},{"id":"407629","reference":"AQW 14211/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-05","answerBy":"2024-07-24","answered":"2024-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of children who have been hospitalised with conditions other than Covid-19 in each of the last five years; (ii) the illnesses that have seen rises in frequency throughout that time; and (iii) the steps that are being taken to reduce the appearance and transmission of these illnesses.","answerText":"The number of children and young people aged under 17 who were admitted to hospital for reasons other than COVID are listed below. Figures for 23/24 will be available in October 2024.\n\nYear\tTotal Admissions\n2018/19\t49,118\n2019/20\t45,581\n2020/21\t29,045\n2021/22\t38,664\n2022/23\t41,925\n\nNB: During 2020/21 and 2021/22 admissions numbers were down due to COVID infection control measures such as lockdown and school closures. This reduced the spread of COVID and also reduced the spread of other ‘normal’ winter viruses.\n\nThe main reasons for emergency admissions into hospitals for children is as a result of infections such as RSV, acute bronchiolitis, upper and lower respiratory infections including asthma exacerbation and wheezing, trauma, intestinal infections, fever, jaundice and laryngitis and for investigation for conditions such as nausea and vomiting, gastrointestinal and abdominal pain. Children with complex / or congenital conditions with multiple co-morbidities will also be admitted to manage their care at times. With the busiest periods of year over winter periods when the system sees higher numbers of admissions due to winter respiratory viruses, in particular admissions due to RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) with admission numbers varying on a year-by-year basis. There has also been a small increase in admissions for the communicable diseases of measles and pertussis which directly relates to a reduction in vaccine uptake.\n\nVaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases. However, over recent years there has been a reduction in the uptake of childhood vaccinations, and this is now resulting in increases in incidence in communicable diseases, such as measles and pertussis. The PHA continues to lead on campaigns to ascertain reasons behind the lower numbers of vaccination uptake and develop means to increase vaccination rates.\n\nEach year the service puts plans in place to manage the increase in admissions as a result of RSV and a regional RSV synagis vaccination campaign is carried out to protect the most vulnerable children. The PHA leads on a wide-ranging childhood vaccination programme that includes crucial partnership working with primary care and HSC Trusts. This programme covers a wide range of communicable diseases and is an extremely important measure in keeping children well. This programme is regionally agreed, based upon advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) – an independent expert advisory committee that advises United Kingdom health departments on immunisation, making recommendations concerning vaccination schedules and vaccine safety.\n\nThe programme includes immunisations to protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, haemophilus influenzae type b, (Hib) hepatitis B, rotavirus, meningococcal group B, meningococcal groups ACWY pneumococcal disease, measles, mumps, rubella, conditions caused by human papillomavirus (including cervical cancer and cancers of the mouth, throat, anus and genitals and genital warts), and the flu for a number of age bands.\n\nFurther vaccinations may also be offered based upon clinical discretion to some “at risk” children.\n\nI can assure you that my Department and colleagues in primary care, PHA and HSC Trusts will continue to work closely together in order to ensure that if possible, admissions to hospital for children are kept as low as possible and when admitted that the child receives optimal care in the shortest time possible in order to ensure they can be discharged as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"The number of children and young people aged under 17 who were admitted to hospital for reasons other than COVID are listed below. Figures for 23/24 will be available in October 2024.
| Year | Total Admissions |
| 2018/19 | 49,118 |
| 2019/20 | 45,581 |
| 2020/21 | 29,045 |
| 2021/22 | 38,664 |
| 2022/23 | 41,925 |
NB: During 2020/21 and 2021/22 admissions numbers were down due to COVID infection control measures such as lockdown and school closures. This reduced the spread of COVID and also reduced the spread of other ‘normal’ winter viruses.
The main reasons for emergency admissions into hospitals for children is as a result of infections such as RSV, acute bronchiolitis, upper and lower respiratory infections including asthma exacerbation and wheezing, trauma, intestinal infections, fever, jaundice and laryngitis and for investigation for conditions such as nausea and vomiting, gastrointestinal and abdominal pain. Children with complex / or congenital conditions with multiple co-morbidities will also be admitted to manage their care at times. With the busiest periods of year over winter periods when the system sees higher numbers of admissions due to winter respiratory viruses, in particular admissions due to RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) with admission numbers varying on a year-by-year basis. There has also been a small increase in admissions for the communicable diseases of measles and pertussis which directly relates to a reduction in vaccine uptake.
Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent many infectious diseases. However, over recent years there has been a reduction in the uptake of childhood vaccinations, and this is now resulting in increases in incidence in communicable diseases, such as measles and pertussis. The PHA continues to lead on campaigns to ascertain reasons behind the lower numbers of vaccination uptake and develop means to increase vaccination rates.
Each year the service puts plans in place to manage the increase in admissions as a result of RSV and a regional RSV synagis vaccination campaign is carried out to protect the most vulnerable children. The PHA leads on a wide-ranging childhood vaccination programme that includes crucial partnership working with primary care and HSC Trusts. This programme covers a wide range of communicable diseases and is an extremely important measure in keeping children well. This programme is regionally agreed, based upon advice from the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) – an independent expert advisory committee that advises United Kingdom health departments on immunisation, making recommendations concerning vaccination schedules and vaccine safety.
The programme includes immunisations to protects against diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, haemophilus influenzae type b, (Hib) hepatitis B, rotavirus, meningococcal group B, meningococcal groups ACWY pneumococcal disease, measles, mumps, rubella, conditions caused by human papillomavirus (including cervical cancer and cancers of the mouth, throat, anus and genitals and genital warts), and the flu for a number of age bands.
Further vaccinations may also be offered based upon clinical discretion to some “at risk” children.
I can assure you that my Department and colleagues in primary care, PHA and HSC Trusts will continue to work closely together in order to ensure that if possible, admissions to hospital for children are kept as low as possible and when admitted that the child receives optimal care in the shortest time possible in order to ensure they can be discharged as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014211%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407629"}},{"id":"407628","reference":"AQW 14210/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-05","answerBy":"2024-07-24","answered":"2024-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any work he is planning to assess the scale and impact on the (i) lough; and (ii) marine environment of untreated sewage releases into the River Foyle.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates wastewater discharges through discharge consents issued under the Water Order (as amended) 1999. NIEA does not consent the discharge of untreated sewage to the aquatic environment.\n\nI can advise that my Department has no plans presently to assess the scale and impact on Lough Foyle or the marine environment of untreated sewage releases into the River Foyle.\n\nMy Department monitors nutrient levels and impacts in the marine environment but it is not possible to apportion these to particular sources. My Department however, will continue to conduct targeted studies to identify pollution sources and develop the appropriate measures for implementation to improve water quality.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) regulates wastewater discharges through discharge consents issued under the Water Order (as amended) 1999. NIEA does not consent the discharge of untreated sewage to the aquatic environment.
I can advise that my Department has no plans presently to assess the scale and impact on Lough Foyle or the marine environment of untreated sewage releases into the River Foyle.
My Department monitors nutrient levels and impacts in the marine environment but it is not possible to apportion these to particular sources. My Department however, will continue to conduct targeted studies to identify pollution sources and develop the appropriate measures for implementation to improve water quality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014210%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407628","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407628"}},{"id":"407627","reference":"AQW 14209/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-05","answerBy":"2024-07-24","answered":"2024-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of crimes in which a knife or a bladed instrument was used in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Department of Justice does not hold information on reported crimes in which a knife or a bladed instrument was used. The recording of information in relation to offences reported to police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board. You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the issues raised in the question to the PSNI.\n\nHowever, the Department does hold information on the number of convictions at courts. While convictions datasets do not contain detail on where a knife or bladed instrument was used in the commission of an offence, or on the location in which an offence took place, there are two offences which relate to the possession of a knife or bladed instrument in a school or in a public place. Information, at Northern Ireland level, on the number of convictions for these two offences, in the five-year period up to the end of 2023, the most recent year for which statistics are available, has been provided.\n\nConvictions at courts for offences relating to the possession of a knife of a bladed instrument, 2019 – 2023\n\nYear\tConvictions\n2019\t222\n2020\t150\n2021\t176\n2022\t161\n2023\t192\n\nNotes:\n\n1. Figures relate to initial disposal at courts. Appeals are not included.\n\n2. Figures relate to cases dealt with at courts where there was a conviction for at least one of the offences specified.\n\n3. Figures relate to cases prosecuted by PPS on behalf of PSNI, Harbour Police, Airport Constabulary, NCA or PBNI.\n\n4. Figures relate to cases dealt with at Crown Court and magistrates' courts.\n\n5. Figures relate to the offences of ‘possessing an article with a blade or point on school premises’ and ‘possessing an article with a blade or point in a public place, prosecuted under the Criminal Justice Act 1988.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice does not hold information on reported crimes in which a knife or a bladed instrument was used. The recording of information in relation to offences reported to police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board. You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the issues raised in the question to the PSNI.
However, the Department does hold information on the number of convictions at courts. While convictions datasets do not contain detail on where a knife or bladed instrument was used in the commission of an offence, or on the location in which an offence took place, there are two offences which relate to the possession of a knife or bladed instrument in a school or in a public place. Information, at Northern Ireland level, on the number of convictions for these two offences, in the five-year period up to the end of 2023, the most recent year for which statistics are available, has been provided.
Convictions at courts for offences relating to the possession of a knife of a bladed instrument, 2019 – 2023
| Year | Convictions |
| 2019 | 222 |
| 2020 | 150 |
| 2021 | 176 |
| 2022 | 161 |
| 2023 | 192 |
Notes:
1. Figures relate to initial disposal at courts. Appeals are not included.
2. Figures relate to cases dealt with at courts where there was a conviction for at least one of the offences specified.
3. Figures relate to cases prosecuted by PPS on behalf of PSNI, Harbour Police, Airport Constabulary, NCA or PBNI.
4. Figures relate to cases dealt with at Crown Court and magistrates' courts.
5. Figures relate to the offences of ‘possessing an article with a blade or point on school premises’ and ‘possessing an article with a blade or point in a public place, prosecuted under the Criminal Justice Act 1988.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014209%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407627","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407627"}},{"id":"407555","reference":"AQW 14175/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-04","answerBy":"2024-07-23","answered":"2024-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail his plans to facilitate industry workshops to inform farmers, and others involved in the agriculture sector, of the latest scientific tools to help reduce emissions and farm more sustainably.","answerText":"As part of my Department’s Farm Support and Development Programme officials are currently developing new knowledge transfer and innovation programmes which will be delivered through a range of information, training, and group learning interventions.\n\nThese programmes will communicate the latest scientific research and advice to support farmers to improve their technical efficiency and environmentally sustainability.\n\nA scheme, Supporting Agri Professionals, is also being developed to raise the knowledge of professionals interacting with farm businesses to promote a wider understanding of the Farm Support and Development Programme.","answerHtml":"As part of my Department’s Farm Support and Development Programme officials are currently developing new knowledge transfer and innovation programmes which will be delivered through a range of information, training, and group learning interventions.
These programmes will communicate the latest scientific research and advice to support farmers to improve their technical efficiency and environmentally sustainability.
A scheme, Supporting Agri Professionals, is also being developed to raise the knowledge of professionals interacting with farm businesses to promote a wider understanding of the Farm Support and Development Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014175%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407555"}},{"id":"407554","reference":"AQW 14174/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-04","answerBy":"2024-07-23","answered":"2024-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on (i) his Department's course of action if a hospital patient is ready for discharge, but requires a home care package that is unable to be provided; (ii) his Department's course of action when a person living on their own home has their care package stopped or reduced to the point where their needs are not being met; and (iii) his efforts to ensure enough domiciliary care packages are available for everyone who needs one.","answerText":"(i): On the 29th September 2022 my department issued a letter to the 5 Health and Social Care Trusts outlining actions to be taken if a domiciliary care package has been offered as part of discharge planning from hospital but this is not available, the patient should be offered a place in an appropriate care home on a temporary basis if their needs cannot be met safely at home without some form of support. Throughout the duration that an appropriate domiciliary care package is not available it was agreed that the care home fees would be waived. This is extant.\n\n(ii): A prescribed domiciliary care package is based on an individual’s assessed need at that time. There is evidence that for some patients when discharged to the familiar surroundings of their own home and with family and other informal supports they can make improvements in their recovery journey. All packages of domiciliary care are subject to regular professional review. If an individual is assessed as no longer requiring a domiciliary care package or requires a reduction to their existing domiciliary care package, this will be actioned. This in turn frees up domiciliary care hours that can then be utilised for other service users who require a domiciliary care package.\n\n(iii): There is work ongoing through the Social Care Collaborative Forum to identify how we can grow the domiciliary care workforce and also how we can maximize the current resources to reduce unmet need and put in place appropriate support for those who wish to remain living at home for as long as possible.","answerHtml":"(i): On the 29th September 2022 my department issued a letter to the 5 Health and Social Care Trusts outlining actions to be taken if a domiciliary care package has been offered as part of discharge planning from hospital but this is not available, the patient should be offered a place in an appropriate care home on a temporary basis if their needs cannot be met safely at home without some form of support. Throughout the duration that an appropriate domiciliary care package is not available it was agreed that the care home fees would be waived. This is extant.
(ii): A prescribed domiciliary care package is based on an individual’s assessed need at that time. There is evidence that for some patients when discharged to the familiar surroundings of their own home and with family and other informal supports they can make improvements in their recovery journey. All packages of domiciliary care are subject to regular professional review. If an individual is assessed as no longer requiring a domiciliary care package or requires a reduction to their existing domiciliary care package, this will be actioned. This in turn frees up domiciliary care hours that can then be utilised for other service users who require a domiciliary care package.
(iii): There is work ongoing through the Social Care Collaborative Forum to identify how we can grow the domiciliary care workforce and also how we can maximize the current resources to reduce unmet need and put in place appropriate support for those who wish to remain living at home for as long as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014174%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407554"}},{"id":"407553","reference":"AQW 14173/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-04","answerBy":"2024-07-23","answered":"2024-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the support available for the diagnosis, treatment and management of post-traumatic stress disorder.","answerText":"A diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is typically reached by a consultant (or a trainee psychiatrist under the supervision of a consultant) after a full psychiatric assessment. Psychiatrists work in multi-disciplinary teams and on some occasions a person may be assessed by a member of staff from another profession who may not make a diagnosis as such but will assess the person’s presenting symptoms and problems and will agree a management and treatment plan.\n\nIndividuals with post-traumatic stress disorder will typically be offered:\n\na) an appropriate psychological therapy (most often trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy or EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy).\n\nand/or\n\n(b) appropriate pharmacological treatments (medications; most often an antidepressant).\n\nIf PTSD has resulted from a Troubles/conflict-related trauma care may be provided by the Regional Trauma Network (the RTN). The RTN brings together services provided by both the statutory (through the Health and Social Care Trusts) and community and voluntary sector organisations (funded through the Victims and Survivors Service).\n\nFurthermore, any adult who requires Mental Health Services will adhere to the standards set out in the Regional You in Mind Mental Health Care Pathway (2014). The term mental ill health covers a broad spectrum of mental health problems. This Care Pathway is for people who experience mental ill health and for their families and friends. The Pathway outlines how care decisions will be made and put the person, and/or family, partner or nominated friends at heart of all decision making. The Care Pathway sets out the standards expected by all mental health and psychological therapy services provided by Health and Social Care Trusts including those services commissioned from independent community and voluntary sectors organisations. The Pathway has been modelled on NICE 136 Guideline Improving Experience of People Using Adult Mental Health Services Quality Standards, and outlines how Mental Health Services will use recovery principles in providing care.","answerHtml":"A diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is typically reached by a consultant (or a trainee psychiatrist under the supervision of a consultant) after a full psychiatric assessment. Psychiatrists work in multi-disciplinary teams and on some occasions a person may be assessed by a member of staff from another profession who may not make a diagnosis as such but will assess the person’s presenting symptoms and problems and will agree a management and treatment plan.
Individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder will typically be offered:
a) an appropriate psychological therapy (most often trauma-focused cognitive behaviour therapy or EMDR (eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy).
and/or
(b) appropriate pharmacological treatments (medications; most often an antidepressant).
If PTSD has resulted from a Troubles/conflict-related trauma care may be provided by the Regional Trauma Network (the RTN). The RTN brings together services provided by both the statutory (through the Health and Social Care Trusts) and community and voluntary sector organisations (funded through the Victims and Survivors Service).
Furthermore, any adult who requires Mental Health Services will adhere to the standards set out in the Regional You in Mind Mental Health Care Pathway (2014). The term mental ill health covers a broad spectrum of mental health problems. This Care Pathway is for people who experience mental ill health and for their families and friends. The Pathway outlines how care decisions will be made and put the person, and/or family, partner or nominated friends at heart of all decision making. The Care Pathway sets out the standards expected by all mental health and psychological therapy services provided by Health and Social Care Trusts including those services commissioned from independent community and voluntary sectors organisations. The Pathway has been modelled on NICE 136 Guideline Improving Experience of People Using Adult Mental Health Services Quality Standards, and outlines how Mental Health Services will use recovery principles in providing care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407553"}},{"id":"407552","reference":"AQW 14172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-04","answerBy":"2024-07-23","answered":"2024-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to review private property rental sector regulations to make it easier for lower income households to find a home.","answerText":"The first phase of the reform of the Private Rented Sector is encapsulated in the Private Tenancies Act (NI) 2022. This legislation already includes measures to help low-income households to access the sector by limiting the amount of deposit that a landlord can request or retain to no more than one month’s rent.\n\nOf equal importance are those other measures derived from the Act which are focused on increasing the protections for tenants while living in a property, including my recent regulations to set the minimum standards for the installation of smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms, and those which my officials are currently developing to underpin electrical safety and to provide for much longer notice to quit periods.\n\nMy consideration of what needs to happen in Phase 2 of Private Rented Sector reform will be focused on what further measures I can take to help ensure that the Private Rented Sector offers a good housing option for those that need it.\n\nMy officials have already re-engaged with key stakeholders and reviewed what is happening in other jurisdictions as part of a policy refresh to inform the development of a draft plan for Phase 2 reform for my review. I will be meeting with officials in the near future to discuss this plan.","answerHtml":"The first phase of the reform of the Private Rented Sector is encapsulated in the Private Tenancies Act (NI) 2022. This legislation already includes measures to help low-income households to access the sector by limiting the amount of deposit that a landlord can request or retain to no more than one month’s rent.
Of equal importance are those other measures derived from the Act which are focused on increasing the protections for tenants while living in a property, including my recent regulations to set the minimum standards for the installation of smoke, heat and carbon monoxide alarms, and those which my officials are currently developing to underpin electrical safety and to provide for much longer notice to quit periods.
My consideration of what needs to happen in Phase 2 of Private Rented Sector reform will be focused on what further measures I can take to help ensure that the Private Rented Sector offers a good housing option for those that need it.
My officials have already re-engaged with key stakeholders and reviewed what is happening in other jurisdictions as part of a policy refresh to inform the development of a draft plan for Phase 2 reform for my review. I will be meeting with officials in the near future to discuss this plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407552"}},{"id":"407551","reference":"AQW 14171/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-04","answerBy":"2024-07-23","answered":"2024-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the steps he is taking to support the Housing Executive in speeding up the process of moving tenants out of temporary housing and into permanent housing.","answerText":"The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to supporting applicants in temporary accommodation, including assisting with timeliness of move-on options, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/fd320853-cf6e-4403-908f-d0a0b7dbbaea/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf.\n\nThe Housing Executive will ensure that any change of tenancy works will be prioritised in any properties where an offer has been made to a household in temporary accommodation.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to supporting applicants in temporary accommodation, including assisting with timeliness of move-on options, is outlined in the Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found at:
https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/fd320853-cf6e-4403-908f-d0a0b7dbbaea/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf.
The Housing Executive will ensure that any change of tenancy works will be prioritised in any properties where an offer has been made to a household in temporary accommodation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014171%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407551"}},{"id":"407432","reference":"AQW 14122/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-08-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, in relation to the upcoming Programme for Government, whether they will include a Housing Executive retro-fitting programme which, similarly to their pilot programme, would see existing properties fitted with energy-saving upgrades.","answerText":"The Programme for Government is currently under development.\n\nWe have previously spoken about a number of priorities including Childcare, Reducing Hospital Waiting Lists, Tackling Violence against Women and Girls, Special Educational Needs, Lough Neagh, Housing, and Developing a globally competitive economy.","answerHtml":"The Programme for Government is currently under development.
We have previously spoken about a number of priorities including Childcare, Reducing Hospital Waiting Lists, Tackling Violence against Women and Girls, Special Educational Needs, Lough Neagh, Housing, and Developing a globally competitive economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014122%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407432","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407432"}},{"id":"407431","reference":"AQW 14121/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to move to a system where Housing Associations are public bodies but without their debt counting towards public debt, similar to what exists in England.","answerText":"Following the passage of the Housing (Amendment) Act (NI) in 2020, Registered Housing Associations in Northern Ireland were reclassified from the public back to the private sector. I have no plans to change the current system.","answerHtml":"Following the passage of the Housing (Amendment) Act (NI) in 2020, Registered Housing Associations in Northern Ireland were reclassified from the public back to the private sector. I have no plans to change the current system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014121%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407431"}},{"id":"407430","reference":"AQW 14120/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to review the current system whereby Housing Executive rental income cannot be spent on investment in new social housing.","answerText":"NIHE’s rental income is used to pay for all the services that NIHE tenants require, including essential maintenance, improvements and investment in NIHE’s homes. At this time, I have no plans for such a review as you describe.","answerHtml":"NIHE’s rental income is used to pay for all the services that NIHE tenants require, including essential maintenance, improvements and investment in NIHE’s homes. At this time, I have no plans for such a review as you describe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014120%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407430"}},{"id":"407429","reference":"AQW 14119/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-08-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to give the Housing Executive an increased input into where social housing is built.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) is responsible for the assembly and day to day management of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP), which is a three year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes based on the identification and analysis of housing need by geographical area.\n\nThe formulation of the SHDP is shaped by the NIHE’s Strategic Guidelines which ensure that the Programme is distributed equitably across a range of programme policy areas and targets those areas of greatest social housing need.\n\nIn managing the SHDP, the NIHE directs housing associations to identify and bring forward development opportunities in those areas of greatest unmet social housing need and administers Housing Association Grant on behalf of DfC to Housing Associations to facilitate the delivery of social housing.\n\nGiven the above, I have no plans to, nor is there a need to, give the Housing Executive an increased input.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) is responsible for the assembly and day to day management of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP), which is a three year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes based on the identification and analysis of housing need by geographical area.
The formulation of the SHDP is shaped by the NIHE’s Strategic Guidelines which ensure that the Programme is distributed equitably across a range of programme policy areas and targets those areas of greatest social housing need.
In managing the SHDP, the NIHE directs housing associations to identify and bring forward development opportunities in those areas of greatest unmet social housing need and administers Housing Association Grant on behalf of DfC to Housing Associations to facilitate the delivery of social housing.
Given the above, I have no plans to, nor is there a need to, give the Housing Executive an increased input.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014119%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407429"}},{"id":"407428","reference":"AQW 14118/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-03","answerBy":"2024-07-22","answered":"2024-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the areas that have reached their wastewater capacity and are unable to be developed in terms of dwellings or businesses.","answerText":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:\n\nNI Water can often work with developers to try to identify a ‘no detriment’ solution, to achieve a connection. NI Water has advised that there are currently 68 such areas across the North. These areas are listed below:-\n\nMonteith, Moneyslane, Desertmartin, Carrowclare, Killymuck, Redford, Douglas Bridge, Robinsonstown, The Loup, Florencecourt, Glasdrumman (Annalong), Cabragh, Blackwatertown, Dunmore, Teemore, Maghera (Down), Mosside (Ballymoney), Clogh, Clarehill, Lurganare, Eglish (Dungannon), Darkley, Drumquin, Stranocum, Martinstown, Edenderry (Belfast), Lough Macrory South, Mullaghboy (Islandmagee), Garrison South, Killeen (Dungannon), Dervock, Gortin, Ravernet, Poyntzpass, Armoy Bush, Augher Blackwater, Killygonlan, Clady (Tyrone), Lawrencetown, Ederney, Castle Archdale Integrated Constructed Wetlands, Tamnamore, Mountnorris, Clough East, Meigh, Clogher, Newtownbutler, Cloughey, Beragh, Aughnacloy, Drumbeg, Bellaghy, Belleek (Fermanagh), Killinchy, Hilltown, Glenavy, Markethill, Fivemiletown, Drumaness, Moneymore, Moy, Irvinestown, Rathfriland Drumlough, Waringstown, Greenisland, Larne, Dungannon and Cranfield.\n\nIn addition, NI Water has also advised that there are 32 sub-catchments across 23 towns and villages where it is no longer able to provide a solution to developers to facilitate a new connection, given capacity issues in the sewerage network. These are listed below:\n\nTemplepatrick, Greenisland, Portadown, Belfast, Enniskillen, Carryduff, Ballymena, Dungannon, Cookstown, Downpatrick, Saintfield, Donaghadee, Dundonald, Newry, Newtownabbey, Maghera, Newtownards, Comber, Killyleagh, Kilkeel, Daraghcross, Seahill and Larne.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com\n\nMaking direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.","answerHtml":"The management of public wastewater infrastructure is an operational matter for NI Water. However, I have sought the requested information from NI Water and have been advised as follows:
NI Water can often work with developers to try to identify a ‘no detriment’ solution, to achieve a connection. NI Water has advised that there are currently 68 such areas across the North. These areas are listed below:-
Monteith, Moneyslane, Desertmartin, Carrowclare, Killymuck, Redford, Douglas Bridge, Robinsonstown, The Loup, Florencecourt, Glasdrumman (Annalong), Cabragh, Blackwatertown, Dunmore, Teemore, Maghera (Down), Mosside (Ballymoney), Clogh, Clarehill, Lurganare, Eglish (Dungannon), Darkley, Drumquin, Stranocum, Martinstown, Edenderry (Belfast), Lough Macrory South, Mullaghboy (Islandmagee), Garrison South, Killeen (Dungannon), Dervock, Gortin, Ravernet, Poyntzpass, Armoy Bush, Augher Blackwater, Killygonlan, Clady (Tyrone), Lawrencetown, Ederney, Castle Archdale Integrated Constructed Wetlands, Tamnamore, Mountnorris, Clough East, Meigh, Clogher, Newtownbutler, Cloughey, Beragh, Aughnacloy, Drumbeg, Bellaghy, Belleek (Fermanagh), Killinchy, Hilltown, Glenavy, Markethill, Fivemiletown, Drumaness, Moneymore, Moy, Irvinestown, Rathfriland Drumlough, Waringstown, Greenisland, Larne, Dungannon and Cranfield.
In addition, NI Water has also advised that there are 32 sub-catchments across 23 towns and villages where it is no longer able to provide a solution to developers to facilitate a new connection, given capacity issues in the sewerage network. These are listed below:
Templepatrick, Greenisland, Portadown, Belfast, Enniskillen, Carryduff, Ballymena, Dungannon, Cookstown, Downpatrick, Saintfield, Donaghadee, Dundonald, Newry, Newtownabbey, Maghera, Newtownards, Comber, Killyleagh, Kilkeel, Daraghcross, Seahill and Larne.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you should contact NI Water directly, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com
Making direct contact with NI Water will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of limited public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014118%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407428","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407428"}},{"id":"407373","reference":"AQW 14071/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-02","answerBy":"2024-07-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the five most common reasons for those over the age of 65 to be admitted to hospital through an accident and emergency department in each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014071%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407373","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407373"}},{"id":"407372","reference":"AQW 14070/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-02","answerBy":"2024-07-19","answered":"2024-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the work he has undertaken, and plans to undertake, with employers and industry leaders in relation to the employment of people with physical and learning disabilities, including those who had statements of special educational needs while at school; and (ii) for an update on (a) the proportion of those with physical and learning disabilities who have expressed a desire to work; and (b) the proportion of whom are currently employed.","answerText":"NISRA estimates that 41.7% of people with a disability are currently in employment. Of those who are economically inactive and classified as sick or disabled, an estimated 26,000 (20% of this classification group) express that they want to work under the right circumstances.\n\nMy Department delivers a range of provision, in collaboration with many partners, to support disabled people to move closer and into employment. This includes Workable (NI), Access to Work (NI), and the Condition Management Programme; JobStart and its specialist pathway for disabled young people; our frontline Work Coaches and range of employer facing services; and provision commissioned through our Labour Market Partnerships, based on local need.\n\nMy Department has also undertaken work to develop a new Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland, involving extensive co-design alongside a wide and diverse range of stakeholders, including disabled people, the voluntary and community sector, and employers and their representative bodies.","answerHtml":"NISRA estimates that 41.7% of people with a disability are currently in employment. Of those who are economically inactive and classified as sick or disabled, an estimated 26,000 (20% of this classification group) express that they want to work under the right circumstances.
My Department delivers a range of provision, in collaboration with many partners, to support disabled people to move closer and into employment. This includes Workable (NI), Access to Work (NI), and the Condition Management Programme; JobStart and its specialist pathway for disabled young people; our frontline Work Coaches and range of employer facing services; and provision commissioned through our Labour Market Partnerships, based on local need.
My Department has also undertaken work to develop a new Disability and Work Strategy for Northern Ireland, involving extensive co-design alongside a wide and diverse range of stakeholders, including disabled people, the voluntary and community sector, and employers and their representative bodies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014070%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407372","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407372"}},{"id":"407371","reference":"AQW 14069/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-02","answerBy":"2024-07-19","answered":"2024-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail his plans for improving career and employment opportunities for those with special educational needs after they reach the age of 19.","answerText":"Every individual should be able to access opportunities to fulfil their potential, and my Department provides support through the Careers Service to help people to make fully informed choices at important transition points.\n\nFor example, some young people may want to go from school into employment; the Department for Communities provides support for people with disabilities who are seeking or are in employment.\n\nOthers may want to gain further skills and qualifications, and my Department has a range of provision and supports for young people with special educational needs through Further Education Colleges, Universities and across our vocational training provision.\n\nHowever, I am aware that there are significant gaps in provision. I have therefore asked officials to review the current provision and to provide me with recommendations to improve support for young people with special educational needs. I have also asked my officials to examine legislative protections and bring back advice as soon as possible. It is my hope that practical supports and legislative protections can be strengthened in this mandate. This will require collaboration across a number of other Departments.","answerHtml":"Every individual should be able to access opportunities to fulfil their potential, and my Department provides support through the Careers Service to help people to make fully informed choices at important transition points.
For example, some young people may want to go from school into employment; the Department for Communities provides support for people with disabilities who are seeking or are in employment.
Others may want to gain further skills and qualifications, and my Department has a range of provision and supports for young people with special educational needs through Further Education Colleges, Universities and across our vocational training provision.
However, I am aware that there are significant gaps in provision. I have therefore asked officials to review the current provision and to provide me with recommendations to improve support for young people with special educational needs. I have also asked my officials to examine legislative protections and bring back advice as soon as possible. It is my hope that practical supports and legislative protections can be strengthened in this mandate. This will require collaboration across a number of other Departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014069%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407371","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407371"}},{"id":"407370","reference":"AQW 14068/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-02","answerBy":"2024-07-19","answered":"2024-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the development of an active ageing strategy; and (ii) whether he will commit to securing the future of Linking Generations NI by making up the current shortfall in the organisation’s funding.","answerText":"I will be engaging with my officials in due course to understand work completed to date on developing a successor to the Active Ageing Strategy 2016-22 and to consider the next steps.\n\nFinal decisions on the content and implementation of an Active Ageing Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.\n\nMy Department has no funding relationship with Linking Generations NI and currently has no funding programmes open that the organisation may be eligible to apply to. However, they may wish to contact Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) who provide advice on securing funding alongside providing details of available grant funding through its grant tracker. Contact details can be accessed at https://www.nicva.org/services/fundraising","answerHtml":"I will be engaging with my officials in due course to understand work completed to date on developing a successor to the Active Ageing Strategy 2016-22 and to consider the next steps.
Final decisions on the content and implementation of an Active Ageing Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.
My Department has no funding relationship with Linking Generations NI and currently has no funding programmes open that the organisation may be eligible to apply to. However, they may wish to contact Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) who provide advice on securing funding alongside providing details of available grant funding through its grant tracker. Contact details can be accessed at https://www.nicva.org/services/fundraising
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014068%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407370"}},{"id":"407369","reference":"AQW 14067/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-02","answerBy":"2024-07-19","answered":"2024-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on plans to allow drivers, who passed their driving test from 1 January 1997, to tow a trailer with a maximum weight of 3,500kg without undergoing a separate test, similar to the rest of the United Kingdom.","answerText":"Legislation introduced in Britain on 16 December 2021 removed testing requirements for towing a trailer (BE entitlement), meaning that all drivers who passed a category B (car) driving test from 1 January 1997 are now entitled to tow trailers up to 3,500kg Maximum Authorized Mass (MAM). This change was made in an effort to address the HGV driver shortage situation in England, Scotland and Wales by freeing up testing space.\n\nAt that time testing was not seen as a significant reason for HGV driver shortages here. This position has not changed.\n\nIn EU Member States BE testing is still a requirement, as it is here. Road safety continues to be of paramount importance and therefore I have no plans to introduce similar changes.","answerHtml":"Legislation introduced in Britain on 16 December 2021 removed testing requirements for towing a trailer (BE entitlement), meaning that all drivers who passed a category B (car) driving test from 1 January 1997 are now entitled to tow trailers up to 3,500kg Maximum Authorized Mass (MAM). This change was made in an effort to address the HGV driver shortage situation in England, Scotland and Wales by freeing up testing space.
At that time testing was not seen as a significant reason for HGV driver shortages here. This position has not changed.
In EU Member States BE testing is still a requirement, as it is here. Road safety continues to be of paramount importance and therefore I have no plans to introduce similar changes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407369"}},{"id":"407261","reference":"AQW 14019/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-01","answerBy":"2024-07-18","answered":"2024-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the work that (i) has gone into; and (ii) is going into (a) determining the features of land bordering rivers, lakes and streams that places them at greater risk of eutrophication, for instance, land use, size and any other factor; and (b) working with the owners of those more at risk in reducing the threat level.","answerText":"My Department continues to deliver a number of measures aimed at improving water quality in catchment areas. This includes a review of the current Nutrients Action Programme (NAP), which aims to improve the use of nutrients on farms and, as a result, improve water quality. My Department is also delivering the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme, which provides farmers with detailed analysis of soil nutrients, acidity (pH), and run off risk maps. These maps identify areas at high risk of nutrient loss during rainfall events and help farmers to identify field areas, which may benefit from interventions, such as buffer strips, to minimise nutrient run off into water courses.\n\nThe Environmental Framing Scheme (EFS) offers five options aimed at improving water quality, with the aim of having these at placed in the right location to improve water quality. As part of a complex monitoring programme a recent published study has shown that the measures under EFS can help to reduce the causes of Eutrophication of our rivers.\n\nNIEA also provides funding to not-for-profit organisations and councils through its annual Water Quality Improvement Strand of the Environment Fund. Grantees work with land owners, putting in place measures like fencing to prevent livestock access to water bodies, leaky dams to 'slow the flow' and riparian planting and buffers to prevent nutrient run-off into waterways.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to deliver a number of measures aimed at improving water quality in catchment areas. This includes a review of the current Nutrients Action Programme (NAP), which aims to improve the use of nutrients on farms and, as a result, improve water quality. My Department is also delivering the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme, which provides farmers with detailed analysis of soil nutrients, acidity (pH), and run off risk maps. These maps identify areas at high risk of nutrient loss during rainfall events and help farmers to identify field areas, which may benefit from interventions, such as buffer strips, to minimise nutrient run off into water courses.
The Environmental Framing Scheme (EFS) offers five options aimed at improving water quality, with the aim of having these at placed in the right location to improve water quality. As part of a complex monitoring programme a recent published study has shown that the measures under EFS can help to reduce the causes of Eutrophication of our rivers.
NIEA also provides funding to not-for-profit organisations and councils through its annual Water Quality Improvement Strand of the Environment Fund. Grantees work with land owners, putting in place measures like fencing to prevent livestock access to water bodies, leaky dams to 'slow the flow' and riparian planting and buffers to prevent nutrient run-off into waterways.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014019%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407261","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407261"}},{"id":"407260","reference":"AQW 14018/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-01","answerBy":"2024-07-18","answered":"2024-07-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of how the change from tax credits to Universal Credit, and the application process for free dental treatment, has impacted the number of people registered as eligible for free dental treatment in the last five years.","answerText":"The Help with Health Costs (HwHC) scheme provides individuals, primarily on low incomes, with financial help towards the cost of dental treatment, eyesight tests, glasses or contact lens, and travel costs for Health and Social Care (HSC) treatment on referral by a doctor or dentist.\n\nA person is either automatically passported to the HwHC scheme if they are in receipt of certain benefits or they have to apply through the Department’s Low Income Scheme. The legislation does not currently make provision for the automatic passporting to the HwHC scheme for eligible Universal Credit (UC) claimants and therefore, legislative changes are required.\n\nGenerally speaking, as the associated legislative changes have not yet been made, there should be no impact on the overall number of people eligible for help with health costs following the introduction of UC. However, there has been an impact on the method by which eligible UC claimants currently receive entitlement for help with health costs.\n\nAn interim measure is in place for individuals who have migrated from a legacy benefit on to UC, they have to apply through the Department’s Low Income Scheme to have their eligibility assessed and confirmed prior to treatment. The scheme is administered by the Department for Communities. The interim measure is not an automatic process. It is paper based, and individuals must complete an application form to apply for an annual certificate for help with health costs.\n\nCurrently, with the exception of having to apply manually, my Department do not expect there to be any significant change in eligibility for UC claimants receiving help with health costs.\n\nHowever, I recognise that the interim measure has obvious implications for some of our most vulnerable people and it has been criticised due to low public awareness and for placing an additional burden on individuals in society. It is clear that there is an urgent need to update our legislation to reinstate automatic passporting for help with health costs to those eligible.\n\nA short consultation is required which will outline the potential options that my Department is considering before proceeding to update the legislation. My Department will seek to maintain, as closely as possible, the caseload of recipients who are eligible for help with health costs, balancing the continued protection of the health of members of society who need additional support without adding pressures on HSC budgets.\n\nMy officials intend to have the consultation and other necessary work completed to enable the legislation to be updated in the autumn of this year.","answerHtml":"The Help with Health Costs (HwHC) scheme provides individuals, primarily on low incomes, with financial help towards the cost of dental treatment, eyesight tests, glasses or contact lens, and travel costs for Health and Social Care (HSC) treatment on referral by a doctor or dentist.
A person is either automatically passported to the HwHC scheme if they are in receipt of certain benefits or they have to apply through the Department’s Low Income Scheme. The legislation does not currently make provision for the automatic passporting to the HwHC scheme for eligible Universal Credit (UC) claimants and therefore, legislative changes are required.
Generally speaking, as the associated legislative changes have not yet been made, there should be no impact on the overall number of people eligible for help with health costs following the introduction of UC. However, there has been an impact on the method by which eligible UC claimants currently receive entitlement for help with health costs.
An interim measure is in place for individuals who have migrated from a legacy benefit on to UC, they have to apply through the Department’s Low Income Scheme to have their eligibility assessed and confirmed prior to treatment. The scheme is administered by the Department for Communities. The interim measure is not an automatic process. It is paper based, and individuals must complete an application form to apply for an annual certificate for help with health costs.
Currently, with the exception of having to apply manually, my Department do not expect there to be any significant change in eligibility for UC claimants receiving help with health costs.
However, I recognise that the interim measure has obvious implications for some of our most vulnerable people and it has been criticised due to low public awareness and for placing an additional burden on individuals in society. It is clear that there is an urgent need to update our legislation to reinstate automatic passporting for help with health costs to those eligible.
A short consultation is required which will outline the potential options that my Department is considering before proceeding to update the legislation. My Department will seek to maintain, as closely as possible, the caseload of recipients who are eligible for help with health costs, balancing the continued protection of the health of members of society who need additional support without adding pressures on HSC budgets.
My officials intend to have the consultation and other necessary work completed to enable the legislation to be updated in the autumn of this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014018%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407260"}},{"id":"407259","reference":"AQW 14017/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-01","answerBy":"2024-07-18","answered":"2024-07-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the Family Practitioner Services General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland 2023-24, how these statistics will be used to determine the level of unmet need in NHS dentistry.","answerText":"In addition to the annual publication of the General Dental Statistics, Family Practitioner Services in the Business Services Organisation also publishes quarterly updates. Officials monitor quarterly and annual publications in order to remain informed about trends. Officials also have access to real-time observation of trends via SPPG, which administers the operational aspects of General Dental Services, though this information will not have the accuracy of official statistics.\n\nMy Department is aware that some areas of the country have historically lower registration and treatment rates. This is largely due to geography; areas with a low population density have a lower density of practices, which means that patients may have to travel further to access treatment. Some patients will be unwilling or unable to travel and will therefore not use the services.\n\nHowever, the commissioning of General Dental Services is undertaken on a regional basis, rather than within HSC Trust boundaries.\n\nNeither does the Department commission Health Service places in practices, most of which offer a mixture of Health Service and private dentistry. General Dental Practitioners are independent contractors and as such are not required to register new patients. The Department does not have a role in deciding the location of new practices as this is a business decision made by practice owners.\n\nIn order to provide Health Service dental care, dental practitioners must complete a year of Foundation Training in a Health Service practice in Northern Ireland or NHS practice elsewhere in Great Britain. The Northern Ireland Medical & Dental Training Agency have worked to improve the geographical distribution of Dental Foundation Training places. As a result, there will be 7 fully funded Health Service training placements in the west of the province in 2024/25, compared with just 1 in 2023/24.\n\nDespite registration rates remaining relatively high across the region, with over two-thirds of the Northern Ireland population registered with a practising health service dentist, I am aware that some practices are reducing their level of Health Service commitment.\n\nFor these reasons, the focus of my Department recently has been on improving access to General Dental Service in general, and particularly for high-need patients, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices while reform is progressed. This has resulted in the £9.2 million additional investment for 2024/25, which was announced on 27 March 2024.","answerHtml":"In addition to the annual publication of the General Dental Statistics, Family Practitioner Services in the Business Services Organisation also publishes quarterly updates. Officials monitor quarterly and annual publications in order to remain informed about trends. Officials also have access to real-time observation of trends via SPPG, which administers the operational aspects of General Dental Services, though this information will not have the accuracy of official statistics.
My Department is aware that some areas of the country have historically lower registration and treatment rates. This is largely due to geography; areas with a low population density have a lower density of practices, which means that patients may have to travel further to access treatment. Some patients will be unwilling or unable to travel and will therefore not use the services.
However, the commissioning of General Dental Services is undertaken on a regional basis, rather than within HSC Trust boundaries.
Neither does the Department commission Health Service places in practices, most of which offer a mixture of Health Service and private dentistry. General Dental Practitioners are independent contractors and as such are not required to register new patients. The Department does not have a role in deciding the location of new practices as this is a business decision made by practice owners.
In order to provide Health Service dental care, dental practitioners must complete a year of Foundation Training in a Health Service practice in Northern Ireland or NHS practice elsewhere in Great Britain. The Northern Ireland Medical & Dental Training Agency have worked to improve the geographical distribution of Dental Foundation Training places. As a result, there will be 7 fully funded Health Service training placements in the west of the province in 2024/25, compared with just 1 in 2023/24.
Despite registration rates remaining relatively high across the region, with over two-thirds of the Northern Ireland population registered with a practising health service dentist, I am aware that some practices are reducing their level of Health Service commitment.
For these reasons, the focus of my Department recently has been on improving access to General Dental Service in general, and particularly for high-need patients, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices while reform is progressed. This has resulted in the £9.2 million additional investment for 2024/25, which was announced on 27 March 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014017%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407259","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407259"}},{"id":"407258","reference":"AQW 14016/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-01","answerBy":"2024-07-18","answered":"2024-07-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the Family Practitioner Services General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland 2023-24, how the data on the geographical variance of the number of NHS dental treatments being carried out will be used to inform policy to ensure the availability of NHS dentists across Northern Ireland.","answerText":"In addition to the annual publication of the General Dental Statistics, Family Practitioner Services in the Business Services Organisation also publishes quarterly updates. Officials monitor quarterly and annual publications in order to remain informed about trends. Officials also have access to real-time observation of trends via SPPG, which administers the operational aspects of General Dental Services, though this information will not have the accuracy of official statistics.\n\nMy Department is aware that some areas of the country have historically lower registration and treatment rates. This is largely due to geography; areas with a low population density have a lower density of practices, which means that patients may have to travel further to access treatment. Some patients will be unwilling or unable to travel and will therefore not use the services.\n\nHowever, the commissioning of General Dental Services is undertaken on a regional basis, rather than within HSC Trust boundaries.\n\nNeither does the Department commission Health Service places in practices, most of which offer a mixture of Health Service and private dentistry. General Dental Practitioners are independent contractors and as such are not required to register new patients. The Department does not have a role in deciding the location of new practices as this is a business decision made by practice owners.\n\nIn order to provide Health Service dental care, dental practitioners must complete a year of Foundation Training in a Health Service practice in Northern Ireland or NHS practice elsewhere in Great Britain. The Northern Ireland Medical & Dental Training Agency have worked to improve the geographical distribution of Dental Foundation Training places. As a result, there will be 7 fully funded Health Service training placements in the west of the province in 2024/25, compared with just 1 in 2023/24.\n\nDespite registration rates remaining relatively high across the region, with over two-thirds of the Northern Ireland population registered with a practising health service dentist, I am aware that some practices are reducing their level of Health Service commitment.\n\nFor these reasons, the focus of my Department recently has been on improving access to General Dental Service in general, and particularly for high-need patients, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices while reform is progressed. This has resulted in the £9.2 million additional investment for 2024/25, which was announced on 27 March 2024.","answerHtml":"In addition to the annual publication of the General Dental Statistics, Family Practitioner Services in the Business Services Organisation also publishes quarterly updates. Officials monitor quarterly and annual publications in order to remain informed about trends. Officials also have access to real-time observation of trends via SPPG, which administers the operational aspects of General Dental Services, though this information will not have the accuracy of official statistics.
My Department is aware that some areas of the country have historically lower registration and treatment rates. This is largely due to geography; areas with a low population density have a lower density of practices, which means that patients may have to travel further to access treatment. Some patients will be unwilling or unable to travel and will therefore not use the services.
However, the commissioning of General Dental Services is undertaken on a regional basis, rather than within HSC Trust boundaries.
Neither does the Department commission Health Service places in practices, most of which offer a mixture of Health Service and private dentistry. General Dental Practitioners are independent contractors and as such are not required to register new patients. The Department does not have a role in deciding the location of new practices as this is a business decision made by practice owners.
In order to provide Health Service dental care, dental practitioners must complete a year of Foundation Training in a Health Service practice in Northern Ireland or NHS practice elsewhere in Great Britain. The Northern Ireland Medical & Dental Training Agency have worked to improve the geographical distribution of Dental Foundation Training places. As a result, there will be 7 fully funded Health Service training placements in the west of the province in 2024/25, compared with just 1 in 2023/24.
Despite registration rates remaining relatively high across the region, with over two-thirds of the Northern Ireland population registered with a practising health service dentist, I am aware that some practices are reducing their level of Health Service commitment.
For these reasons, the focus of my Department recently has been on improving access to General Dental Service in general, and particularly for high-need patients, and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices while reform is progressed. This has resulted in the £9.2 million additional investment for 2024/25, which was announced on 27 March 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014016%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407258"}},{"id":"407257","reference":"AQW 14015/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-07-01","answerBy":"2024-07-18","answered":"2024-07-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to data from the Family Practitioner Services General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland 2023-24. to detail the reasons for the drop in NHS dental treatments being carried out on children and adults in the last ten years.","answerText":"The General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland 2023-2024 do not provide an explanation for the trends in provision of dental treatment under the general dental services (GDS) over the past ten years. As such it is not possible to provide an evidence-based response to the question asked. The GDS is a demand-led service and the Strategic Performance and Planning Group (SPPG) of my Department are unable to control the volume of health service work versus the volume of private work provided by dentists. There will be a range of factors affecting the volume of dental treatments deliver under the GDS over the past ten years including the impact of the Covid pandemic, the types of treatment provided and the shift to a largely female workforce which has led to more part-time working.","answerHtml":"The General Dental Statistics for Northern Ireland 2023-2024 do not provide an explanation for the trends in provision of dental treatment under the general dental services (GDS) over the past ten years. As such it is not possible to provide an evidence-based response to the question asked. The GDS is a demand-led service and the Strategic Performance and Planning Group (SPPG) of my Department are unable to control the volume of health service work versus the volume of private work provided by dentists. There will be a range of factors affecting the volume of dental treatments deliver under the GDS over the past ten years including the impact of the Covid pandemic, the types of treatment provided and the shift to a largely female workforce which has led to more part-time working.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014015%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=407257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=407257"}},{"id":"406981","reference":"AQW 13892/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-27","answerBy":"2024-07-16","answered":"2024-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, (i) to detail any work planned to better understand the reasons for the more than 10 per cent difference in the proportion of females being prescribed anti-depressants compared to males; and (ii) for his assessment of how a better understanding of this will improve a greater prevention of depression among women.","answerText":"I welcome the publication of the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, published on 27 June 2024, which provide a comprehensive overview of the use of prescriptions in Northern Ireland. The statistics indicate that the proportion of the overall population currently taking anti-depressants represent 25.5% of females and 15.3% of males. It is noted that the highest single cohort being prescribed anti-depressants (39.1%) are women aged 45 – 64.\n\nThere are no current plans for a formal analysis of the underlying causes of the disparity between anti-depressant prescriptions for males and females. However, it is recognised that there may be several underlying reasons for a higher proportion of females, such as caring responsibilities, menopause or more willingness to present for mental health support.\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy (MHS) 2021-2031 places a strong emphasis on early intervention for, and prevention of, mental ill health. The Early Intervention and Prevention Action Plan (EI&PAP) recognises that incidences of mental ill health are higher amongst females and commits to tackling this inequality. Although the EI&PAP and MHS seek to build upon and improve services for the whole Northern Ireland population, it is recognised that targeted interventions may sometimes be appropriate, including to those individuals and families most at risk.\n\nSome examples of the ongoing work in relation to female mental health include the establishment of perinatal mental health teams in each HSC Trust and my Department’s commitment, subject to budget affordability, to establish a Mother and Baby Unit.\n\nIn parallel, work is being progressed by the Department to develop a Women’s Health Action Plan, which is currently in a research and data-gathering phase. Although the action plan is not specific to mental health, mental health stakeholders (amongst others) will be engaged in its development.","answerHtml":"I welcome the publication of the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, published on 27 June 2024, which provide a comprehensive overview of the use of prescriptions in Northern Ireland. The statistics indicate that the proportion of the overall population currently taking anti-depressants represent 25.5% of females and 15.3% of males. It is noted that the highest single cohort being prescribed anti-depressants (39.1%) are women aged 45 – 64.
There are no current plans for a formal analysis of the underlying causes of the disparity between anti-depressant prescriptions for males and females. However, it is recognised that there may be several underlying reasons for a higher proportion of females, such as caring responsibilities, menopause or more willingness to present for mental health support.
The Mental Health Strategy (MHS) 2021-2031 places a strong emphasis on early intervention for, and prevention of, mental ill health. The Early Intervention and Prevention Action Plan (EI&PAP) recognises that incidences of mental ill health are higher amongst females and commits to tackling this inequality. Although the EI&PAP and MHS seek to build upon and improve services for the whole Northern Ireland population, it is recognised that targeted interventions may sometimes be appropriate, including to those individuals and families most at risk.
Some examples of the ongoing work in relation to female mental health include the establishment of perinatal mental health teams in each HSC Trust and my Department’s commitment, subject to budget affordability, to establish a Mother and Baby Unit.
In parallel, work is being progressed by the Department to develop a Women’s Health Action Plan, which is currently in a research and data-gathering phase. Although the action plan is not specific to mental health, mental health stakeholders (amongst others) will be engaged in its development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013892%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406981"}},{"id":"406980","reference":"AQW 13891/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-27","answerBy":"2024-07-16","answered":"2024-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the work that is planned to explore the benefits of non-pharmaceutical treatments of depression compared to pharmaceutical treatments, including potential side-effects.","answerText":"Although there are no current plans to directly compare the efficacy of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical mental health treatments, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 fully recognises the benefits of non-pharmaceutical supports, for example talking therapies and social prescribing, for individuals struggling with their mental health, including those impacted by depression.\n\nFor example, Actions 5 and 19 respectively commit to expanding hubs for talking therapies and to further embedding psychological therapies across all steps of care. Preparatory work has been undertaken to review existing models and develop draft proposals for a new talking therapies hub model. However, additional resource will be required to take forward these proposals.\n\nAction 4 of the Strategy commits to the provision of social wellbeing supports, such as social prescribing, as interventions for those struggling with their mental health. Additionally, Action 16 recognises the importance of Recovery Colleges, already well established in each Health and Social Care Trust, in ensuring a recovery focus, while Action 17 commits to fully integrating the community and voluntary sector in community-based mental health services delivery.\n\nSubject to availability of future funding, delivery of all these actions will ensure that a full range of non-pharmaceutical options is available to promote good mental health and aid recovery.","answerHtml":"Although there are no current plans to directly compare the efficacy of pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical mental health treatments, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 fully recognises the benefits of non-pharmaceutical supports, for example talking therapies and social prescribing, for individuals struggling with their mental health, including those impacted by depression.
For example, Actions 5 and 19 respectively commit to expanding hubs for talking therapies and to further embedding psychological therapies across all steps of care. Preparatory work has been undertaken to review existing models and develop draft proposals for a new talking therapies hub model. However, additional resource will be required to take forward these proposals.
Action 4 of the Strategy commits to the provision of social wellbeing supports, such as social prescribing, as interventions for those struggling with their mental health. Additionally, Action 16 recognises the importance of Recovery Colleges, already well established in each Health and Social Care Trust, in ensuring a recovery focus, while Action 17 commits to fully integrating the community and voluntary sector in community-based mental health services delivery.
Subject to availability of future funding, delivery of all these actions will ensure that a full range of non-pharmaceutical options is available to promote good mental health and aid recovery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013891%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406980"}},{"id":"406979","reference":"AQW 13890/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-27","answerBy":"2024-07-16","answered":"2024-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, to detail the reasons why the ingredient cost per prescription is nearly 30 per cent higher in Northern Ireland than in England and Wales.","answerText":"I welcome the publication of the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, published on 27 June 2024, which provide a comprehensive overview of the use of prescriptions in Northern Ireland. The statistics indicate that the average cost per prescription item in Northern Ireland was £11.05 in 2023/24, compared with £9.01 in England and £8.15 in Wales. Northern Ireland’s cost per item was 23% higher than in England and 36% higher than in Wales.\n\nIt should be noted that there are some differences in prescription dispensing and processing in Northern Ireland compared to other UK regions, e.g. in NI there is no outpatient dispensing. Varying prescribing practices may also affect the interpretation of UK comparisons and the figures may not be directly comparable across the UK due to these differences. An example of this relates to prescribing interval and how it appears to be shorter in Wales than other UK countries resulting in lower dose units prescribed per prescription item in Wales and correspondingly higher items per head statistics for Wales. This impacts the average cost per item data for Wales by lowering it to a greater extent than other UK regions. Other factors that may contribute to the higher number of prescription items in Northern Ireland include increased waiting list times, population trends, the number of people living with illnesses, deprivation levels and cultural and societal issues.\n\nMy Department is currently undertaking policy development on a new ‘Valuing Medicines’ strategy, which will aim to inform improvements in the use of medicines within Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland to ensure they add value to health, are cost effective and sustainable. The Department is working closely with stakeholders and health service staff including GPs and Community Pharmacists, with both a steering group and departmental working group established to consider a number of strategies to improve the cost-effective use of medicines in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I welcome the publication of the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, published on 27 June 2024, which provide a comprehensive overview of the use of prescriptions in Northern Ireland. The statistics indicate that the average cost per prescription item in Northern Ireland was £11.05 in 2023/24, compared with £9.01 in England and £8.15 in Wales. Northern Ireland’s cost per item was 23% higher than in England and 36% higher than in Wales.
It should be noted that there are some differences in prescription dispensing and processing in Northern Ireland compared to other UK regions, e.g. in NI there is no outpatient dispensing. Varying prescribing practices may also affect the interpretation of UK comparisons and the figures may not be directly comparable across the UK due to these differences. An example of this relates to prescribing interval and how it appears to be shorter in Wales than other UK countries resulting in lower dose units prescribed per prescription item in Wales and correspondingly higher items per head statistics for Wales. This impacts the average cost per item data for Wales by lowering it to a greater extent than other UK regions. Other factors that may contribute to the higher number of prescription items in Northern Ireland include increased waiting list times, population trends, the number of people living with illnesses, deprivation levels and cultural and societal issues.
My Department is currently undertaking policy development on a new ‘Valuing Medicines’ strategy, which will aim to inform improvements in the use of medicines within Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland to ensure they add value to health, are cost effective and sustainable. The Department is working closely with stakeholders and health service staff including GPs and Community Pharmacists, with both a steering group and departmental working group established to consider a number of strategies to improve the cost-effective use of medicines in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013890%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406979"}},{"id":"406978","reference":"AQW 13889/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-27","answerBy":"2024-07-16","answered":"2024-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the General Pharmaceutical Services for Northern Ireland Annual Statistics 2023/24, to detail the work that (i) is being done; and (ii) is planned to explore and address the link between ill health and deprivation levels.","answerText":"The link between ill health and deprivation is well established and reducing health inequalities remains a significant challenge.\n\nThese inequalities arise primarily because of inequalities in the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. Many of these are outside the control of the Department of Health. In fact research has shown that only 20% of health outcomes are driven by the clinical care we receive, with the rest related to the socio-economic and physical environment in which people live and a range of health and lifestyle behaviours.\n\nMaking Life Better (MLB) is the overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over their lives and be enabled and supported to lead healthy lives.\n\nMLB is supported by a range of public health strategies which focus on specific issues, such as substance use, suicide prevention, tobacco use and obesity prevention. The Public Health Agency (PHA) has a central role in delivery of actions identified in these strategies and targets action in specific areas where health inequalities are most prominent in our society. MLB is further complemented by the Integrated Care System for NI (ICSNI) which adopts both a population health and outcomes-based approach.\n\nThrough MLB, and across a range of key issues, my Department and the PHA continue to collaborate across departments and agencies, local government, the community and voluntary sector, and with communities themselves to address the factors which impact on health and wellbeing locally and regionally.\n\nYou will be aware that health inequalities are one of my main priority areas as Health Minister and consideration is currently being given to a targeted, place-based approach to help address this issue.","answerHtml":"The link between ill health and deprivation is well established and reducing health inequalities remains a significant challenge.
These inequalities arise primarily because of inequalities in the conditions in which people are born, grow, live, work and age. Many of these are outside the control of the Department of Health. In fact research has shown that only 20% of health outcomes are driven by the clinical care we receive, with the rest related to the socio-economic and physical environment in which people live and a range of health and lifestyle behaviours.
Making Life Better (MLB) is the overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over their lives and be enabled and supported to lead healthy lives.
MLB is supported by a range of public health strategies which focus on specific issues, such as substance use, suicide prevention, tobacco use and obesity prevention. The Public Health Agency (PHA) has a central role in delivery of actions identified in these strategies and targets action in specific areas where health inequalities are most prominent in our society. MLB is further complemented by the Integrated Care System for NI (ICSNI) which adopts both a population health and outcomes-based approach.
Through MLB, and across a range of key issues, my Department and the PHA continue to collaborate across departments and agencies, local government, the community and voluntary sector, and with communities themselves to address the factors which impact on health and wellbeing locally and regionally.
You will be aware that health inequalities are one of my main priority areas as Health Minister and consideration is currently being given to a targeted, place-based approach to help address this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013889%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406978"}},{"id":"406977","reference":"AQW 13888/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-27","answerBy":"2024-07-16","answered":"2024-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail his plans for enabling and supporting areas outside Belfast to engage in, and benefit from, the seven economic sectors he identified for growth at the Digital DNA Conference.","answerText":"I have made regional economic balance one of my core priorities and I recognise the essential role of industry in enhancing the vibrancy of local economies.\n\nThe sectors which have been identified as our most innovative, productive and internationally focused already represent a significant geographic spread across the north of Ireland. The sectoral action plans are designed to help these sectors grow at scale and ensure the benefits of that growth will be felt across the region.\n\nKey themes running through each of the plans include clustering and collaboration. Clustering is key in supporting regional economic development and actions are designed to foster and enhance the necessary levels of collaboration in order to maximise their impact.\n\nIn autumn 2024 my department will complement the sectoral action plans through the launch of a subregional economic action plan, which will set out our subregional priorities and objectives.","answerHtml":"I have made regional economic balance one of my core priorities and I recognise the essential role of industry in enhancing the vibrancy of local economies.
The sectors which have been identified as our most innovative, productive and internationally focused already represent a significant geographic spread across the north of Ireland. The sectoral action plans are designed to help these sectors grow at scale and ensure the benefits of that growth will be felt across the region.
Key themes running through each of the plans include clustering and collaboration. Clustering is key in supporting regional economic development and actions are designed to foster and enhance the necessary levels of collaboration in order to maximise their impact.
In autumn 2024 my department will complement the sectoral action plans through the launch of a subregional economic action plan, which will set out our subregional priorities and objectives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013888%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406977"}},{"id":"406889","reference":"AQW 13849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-26","answerBy":"2024-07-11","answered":"2024-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what plans he will put in place to reverse the decline of the number of adults registered with an NHS dentist; and (ii) , in relation to the General Dental Services Statistics 2023/24 that states 66 per cent of adults are registered with an NHS dentist, for his assessment of whether oral cancers are less likely to be discovered at an early and more treatable stage.","answerText":"Between 2014 and 2021 the percentage of the population registered with a dentist remained stable at around 64%. This increased to 70% by 2023, primarily because the decision was made to extend patient registrations automatically due to the impact of the pandemic. Whilst there has been a recent decrease in total registrations to 68%, this is still higher than at any time pre-pandemic.\n\nDespite registration rates remaining relatively high, with over two-thirds of the Northern Ireland population registered with a practising health service dentist, I am aware that some practices are reducing their level of Health Service commitment.\n\nTo further support practices and patients, my Department has introduced measures to ensure that patients in need can receive treatment, while options for longer term reform are developed.\n\nIn March 2024, in addition to the 6% pay uplift for General Dental Services for 2023/24, the Department also announced a £9.2m investment package. This includes:\n\n£1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay;\n\n£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25, to support public access to priority treatments; and\n\n£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme.\n\nCases of oral cancer are rising across the UK and unfortunately the majority of cases are diagnosed in stages III and IV. Opportunistic oral cancer screening during the oral clinical examination will help identify lesions of concern, but one of the most important factors for early diagnosis of mouth cancer is self-examination at home. Many people who are most at risk do not routinely engage with healthcare services and will only attend a dentist or doctor when they are experiencing pain or other symptoms.\n\nThe Department continues to work with HSC Trusts to ensure that red flag referrals are seen as quickly as possible. According to the most recently published waiting time statistics (cancer waiting times October – December 2023) 95.6% of head and neck cancers were treated within 31 days.","answerHtml":"Between 2014 and 2021 the percentage of the population registered with a dentist remained stable at around 64%. This increased to 70% by 2023, primarily because the decision was made to extend patient registrations automatically due to the impact of the pandemic. Whilst there has been a recent decrease in total registrations to 68%, this is still higher than at any time pre-pandemic.
Despite registration rates remaining relatively high, with over two-thirds of the Northern Ireland population registered with a practising health service dentist, I am aware that some practices are reducing their level of Health Service commitment.
To further support practices and patients, my Department has introduced measures to ensure that patients in need can receive treatment, while options for longer term reform are developed.
In March 2024, in addition to the 6% pay uplift for General Dental Services for 2023/24, the Department also announced a £9.2m investment package. This includes:
£1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay;
£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25, to support public access to priority treatments; and
£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme.
Cases of oral cancer are rising across the UK and unfortunately the majority of cases are diagnosed in stages III and IV. Opportunistic oral cancer screening during the oral clinical examination will help identify lesions of concern, but one of the most important factors for early diagnosis of mouth cancer is self-examination at home. Many people who are most at risk do not routinely engage with healthcare services and will only attend a dentist or doctor when they are experiencing pain or other symptoms.
The Department continues to work with HSC Trusts to ensure that red flag referrals are seen as quickly as possible. According to the most recently published waiting time statistics (cancer waiting times October – December 2023) 95.6% of head and neck cancers were treated within 31 days.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406889"}},{"id":"406888","reference":"AQW 13848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-26","answerBy":"2024-07-11","answered":"2024-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to facilitate the creation of more carers' hubs, similar to that starting at the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre, Limavady.","answerText":"Buildings-based day care for people with learning disabilities are typically delivered by HSC Trusts with staff under Agenda for Change Terms. Community-based Day Opportunities are typically provided by the independent sector; therefore, my Department does not set the rate of pay.\n\nThe current rate of pay in Adult Learning Disability Day Centres, depends on the band of the staff member. Most Health & Social Care HSC posts are ‘banded’ as part of Agenda of Change, depending on the tasks required and level of responsibility across a number of core and specific dimensions. Health and Social Care (HSC) members in Northern Ireland voted to accept a pay offer from the Department of Health for 2023/24. Payment of the 2023/24 pay award for all Agenda for Change HSC Staff was split with staff receiving the non-consolidated pay award of 5% in June. Payment of the non-consolidated award of £1505 for 2023/24 will follow in August.\n\nCommunity-based Day Opportunities are funded by Trusts as ‘community & voluntary sector’ contracts. In March 2024, my Department announced a 3.11% uplift to these contracts to account for changes in the National Living Wage. I recently approved a further uplift of 0.96% which effectively increased the 2024/25 interim uplift to be applied to 2023/24 contract rates, to a revised interim uplift of 4.07% in respect of these contracts from 1 April 2024. It should be noted that this interim uplift for 2024/25 may need to be revisited in line with the element of the uplift which tracks the HSC’s Agenda for Change pay awards.\n\n.\n\nMy Department and HSC Trusts remain committed to expanding community-based Day Opportunities to provide people with learning disabilities with more meaningful day activities and greater choice and control throughout their lives.","answerHtml":"Buildings-based day care for people with learning disabilities are typically delivered by HSC Trusts with staff under Agenda for Change Terms. Community-based Day Opportunities are typically provided by the independent sector; therefore, my Department does not set the rate of pay.
The current rate of pay in Adult Learning Disability Day Centres, depends on the band of the staff member. Most Health & Social Care HSC posts are ‘banded’ as part of Agenda of Change, depending on the tasks required and level of responsibility across a number of core and specific dimensions. Health and Social Care (HSC) members in Northern Ireland voted to accept a pay offer from the Department of Health for 2023/24. Payment of the 2023/24 pay award for all Agenda for Change HSC Staff was split with staff receiving the non-consolidated pay award of 5% in June. Payment of the non-consolidated award of £1505 for 2023/24 will follow in August.
Community-based Day Opportunities are funded by Trusts as ‘community & voluntary sector’ contracts. In March 2024, my Department announced a 3.11% uplift to these contracts to account for changes in the National Living Wage. I recently approved a further uplift of 0.96% which effectively increased the 2024/25 interim uplift to be applied to 2023/24 contract rates, to a revised interim uplift of 4.07% in respect of these contracts from 1 April 2024. It should be noted that this interim uplift for 2024/25 may need to be revisited in line with the element of the uplift which tracks the HSC’s Agenda for Change pay awards.
.
My Department and HSC Trusts remain committed to expanding community-based Day Opportunities to provide people with learning disabilities with more meaningful day activities and greater choice and control throughout their lives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406888"}},{"id":"406887","reference":"AQW 13847/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-26","answerBy":"2024-07-11","answered":"2024-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any plans he has to work with (i) banks; (ii) Post Offices; and (iii) other stakeholders to facilitate the creation of more banking hubs in East Londonderry.","answerText":"I held a meeting on 1 May 2024 with senior representatives of the local banks and building societies, LINK and Cash Access UK, where I urged them to maintain access to vital banking services in the North.\n\nI emphasised the importance of quickly rolling out further banking hubs here in the North as it is disappointing that only one banking hub, in Kilkeel, has opened to date. I understand from that meeting there are plans for four new banking hubs to open here. This includes a hub in your constituency in Portrush, where Cash Access UK indicated it is due to open in early 2025.\n\nI will continue to press on the sector to roll out banking hubs at pace. My officials are also engaging with the Consumer Council who collaborate with LINK in identifying further areas that should be considered for a banking hub here.\n\nI intend to hold a further round table discussion in the Autumn to follow up on this matter.","answerHtml":"I held a meeting on 1 May 2024 with senior representatives of the local banks and building societies, LINK and Cash Access UK, where I urged them to maintain access to vital banking services in the North.
I emphasised the importance of quickly rolling out further banking hubs here in the North as it is disappointing that only one banking hub, in Kilkeel, has opened to date. I understand from that meeting there are plans for four new banking hubs to open here. This includes a hub in your constituency in Portrush, where Cash Access UK indicated it is due to open in early 2025.
I will continue to press on the sector to roll out banking hubs at pace. My officials are also engaging with the Consumer Council who collaborate with LINK in identifying further areas that should be considered for a banking hub here.
I intend to hold a further round table discussion in the Autumn to follow up on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013847%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406887"}},{"id":"406886","reference":"AQW 13846/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-26","answerBy":"2024-07-11","answered":"2024-08-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of the impact of road safety advertising in reducing the number of deaths on our roads; and (ii) to detail the amount his Department has spent on such advertising in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Statistics demonstrate that over 95% of road traffic collisions where someone is killed or seriously injured is caused by human error/poor decision making. That means the majority of road deaths and serious injuries are avoidable. The errors are mainly, careless/inattention, drink or drug driving, excess speed for the conditions or the road and in the event of a crash not wearing a seatbelt. For this reason, my Department’s road safety campaigns focus on influencing road user behaviour leading to better choices by road users and they play a significant role in joint efforts by all road safety partners in reducing the number of people killed on roads here.\n\nOne of the best ways to ensure safety on our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury by 2050, is by changing road user behaviour. As road users we all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. The sad reality is that if we do not change our own attitudes when we are using the roads, our death toll will continue to increase. Last month, I launched the ‘RoadWise Up’ digital advertising campaign and road safety messaging is also promoted by my Department on social media platforms, primarily through ShareTheRoadToZero.com I would encourage everyone to endorse and share this messaging, and to take the road safety pledge.\n\nThe amount my Department has spent on road safety advertising in each of the last five years is detailed below. The amount for 2023/24 is inclusive of sponsorship funding provided by the Northern Ireland Road Safety Partnership.\n\nYEAR TOTAL SPEND\n\n2019/20 £987,767.97\n\n2020/21 £1,387,647.89\n\n2021/22 £1,472,397.09\n\n2022/23 -\n\n2023/24 £476,000.00\n\nIt has been well documented, that due to financial pressures my department was unable to allocate a budget for road safety advertising for financial years 2022/23 and a limited budget in 2023/24","answerHtml":"Statistics demonstrate that over 95% of road traffic collisions where someone is killed or seriously injured is caused by human error/poor decision making. That means the majority of road deaths and serious injuries are avoidable. The errors are mainly, careless/inattention, drink or drug driving, excess speed for the conditions or the road and in the event of a crash not wearing a seatbelt. For this reason, my Department’s road safety campaigns focus on influencing road user behaviour leading to better choices by road users and they play a significant role in joint efforts by all road safety partners in reducing the number of people killed on roads here.
One of the best ways to ensure safety on our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury by 2050, is by changing road user behaviour. As road users we all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. The sad reality is that if we do not change our own attitudes when we are using the roads, our death toll will continue to increase. Last month, I launched the ‘RoadWise Up’ digital advertising campaign and road safety messaging is also promoted by my Department on social media platforms, primarily through ShareTheRoadToZero.com I would encourage everyone to endorse and share this messaging, and to take the road safety pledge.
The amount my Department has spent on road safety advertising in each of the last five years is detailed below. The amount for 2023/24 is inclusive of sponsorship funding provided by the Northern Ireland Road Safety Partnership.
YEAR TOTAL SPEND
2019/20 £987,767.97
2020/21 £1,387,647.89
2021/22 £1,472,397.09
2022/23 -
2023/24 £476,000.00
It has been well documented, that due to financial pressures my department was unable to allocate a budget for road safety advertising for financial years 2022/23 and a limited budget in 2023/24
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013846%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406886"}},{"id":"406885","reference":"AQW 13845/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-26","answerBy":"2024-07-11","answered":"2024-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any plans she has to develop or improve legislation on tackling drug use in city centres and town centres.","answerText":"The legal framework relating to the use of drugs, including the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, is reserved to the UK Government. The PSNI lead on enforcement of this legislation with the support partners such as Border Force.\n\nThe Department of Health (DoH) lead on drug policy and the development of public health initiatives to address problematic substance use in Northern Ireland but, recognising the complexities of addressing this issue, input from key partners is critical to success.\n\nThe Department of Justice (DoJ) is a member of the DoH-led Substance Use Strategy Programme Board which helps to drive forward and oversee the implementation of the 10-year strategy aiming to tackle the harms caused by substance use. There are a number of actions within the strategy that my Department is either directly or indirectly involved in delivering.\n\nAnother important focus for my Department is the promotion and support of preventative approaches to substance use and the harm and vulnerabilities associated with addiction.\n\nMulti-Agency Support Hubs, part-funded by my Department, work at a local level to address vulnerabilities, including addiction, that can bring individuals into the criminal justice system. Support Hubs are in operation in all eleven council areas and each Hub helps vulnerable people get access to the right support, at the right time, from the right organisations within their local area.\n\nPolicing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by the DoJ and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, also deliver local interventions to address harm and vulnerability. This includes Belfast PCSP funding of the Street Injectors Support Service (SISS) which targets the impact of discarded injecting equipment and delivers proactive outreach, as well as providing visible reassurance to the public and City Centre business owners.\n\nThe Belfast PCSP contributes funding to the Complex Lives project which provides an integrated whole system response to support people caught in a cycle of homelessness, substance misuse, offending behaviour, and poor physical and mental health.\n\nOther PCSP projects include awareness raising around substance use, the funding of counselling services, and provision of Remove All Prescription and Illegal Drugs (RAPID) bins which provide for the disposal of all types of prescription and illegal drugs from the local community.","answerHtml":"The legal framework relating to the use of drugs, including the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and the Psychoactive Substances Act 2016, is reserved to the UK Government. The PSNI lead on enforcement of this legislation with the support partners such as Border Force.
The Department of Health (DoH) lead on drug policy and the development of public health initiatives to address problematic substance use in Northern Ireland but, recognising the complexities of addressing this issue, input from key partners is critical to success.
The Department of Justice (DoJ) is a member of the DoH-led Substance Use Strategy Programme Board which helps to drive forward and oversee the implementation of the 10-year strategy aiming to tackle the harms caused by substance use. There are a number of actions within the strategy that my Department is either directly or indirectly involved in delivering.
Another important focus for my Department is the promotion and support of preventative approaches to substance use and the harm and vulnerabilities associated with addiction.
Multi-Agency Support Hubs, part-funded by my Department, work at a local level to address vulnerabilities, including addiction, that can bring individuals into the criminal justice system. Support Hubs are in operation in all eleven council areas and each Hub helps vulnerable people get access to the right support, at the right time, from the right organisations within their local area.
Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by the DoJ and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, also deliver local interventions to address harm and vulnerability. This includes Belfast PCSP funding of the Street Injectors Support Service (SISS) which targets the impact of discarded injecting equipment and delivers proactive outreach, as well as providing visible reassurance to the public and City Centre business owners.
The Belfast PCSP contributes funding to the Complex Lives project which provides an integrated whole system response to support people caught in a cycle of homelessness, substance misuse, offending behaviour, and poor physical and mental health.
Other PCSP projects include awareness raising around substance use, the funding of counselling services, and provision of Remove All Prescription and Illegal Drugs (RAPID) bins which provide for the disposal of all types of prescription and illegal drugs from the local community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013845%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406885","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406885"}},{"id":"406783","reference":"AQW 13796/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-25","answerBy":"2024-06-28","answered":"2024-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the date when the term of the current Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland comes to an end; and (ii) for an update on the recruitment process and progress of finding his replacement.","answerText":"The recruitment of a Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland is a matter for the First Minister and deputy First Minister.","answerHtml":"The recruitment of a Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland is a matter for the First Minister and deputy First Minister.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013796%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406783"}},{"id":"406782","reference":"AQW 13795/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-25","answerBy":"2024-07-10","answered":"2024-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the work he is engaged in to develop and improve licensing systems, regulations and requirements for those operating animal services, including (i) rehoming; (ii) boarding; (iii) walking; (iv) day-care; (v) breeding; and (vi) grooming.","answerText":"I intend to bring forward legislation on a range of important animal welfare issues but I am also mindful of what can be delivered within the resources available to my Department and the time remaining in this mandate.\n\nNevertheless, I will continue to engage with stakeholder organisations in the time ahead which will assist me in setting the key animal welfare priorities for the remainder of the mandate, and I am happy for this to include exploring the merits of introducing new licensing and regulatory requirements for those facilitating such animal services.","answerHtml":"I intend to bring forward legislation on a range of important animal welfare issues but I am also mindful of what can be delivered within the resources available to my Department and the time remaining in this mandate.
Nevertheless, I will continue to engage with stakeholder organisations in the time ahead which will assist me in setting the key animal welfare priorities for the remainder of the mandate, and I am happy for this to include exploring the merits of introducing new licensing and regulatory requirements for those facilitating such animal services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013795%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406782","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406782"}},{"id":"406781","reference":"AQW 13794/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-25","answerBy":"2024-07-10","answered":"2024-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how he plans to improve animal welfare in animal pounds and kennelling facilities.","answerText":"The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 allows District Councils to establish and maintain dog pounds and to make arrangements with Department approved kennelling facilities for their use. Kennels or Boarding Establishments are licenced under the Welfare of Animals Act 1972, with both pounds and kennels subject to the welfare rules within the robust Welfare of Animals Act 2011.\n\nThe modernisation of some of the more dated pieces of animal welfare legislation is an area I wish to address going forward and I will continue to engage with key stakeholder organisations in the time ahead which will assist me in setting the animal welfare priorities for my Department. However, my capacity to enact legislation is constrained by both the resources available to me and the time remaining in this current mandate.","answerHtml":"The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 allows District Councils to establish and maintain dog pounds and to make arrangements with Department approved kennelling facilities for their use. Kennels or Boarding Establishments are licenced under the Welfare of Animals Act 1972, with both pounds and kennels subject to the welfare rules within the robust Welfare of Animals Act 2011.
The modernisation of some of the more dated pieces of animal welfare legislation is an area I wish to address going forward and I will continue to engage with key stakeholder organisations in the time ahead which will assist me in setting the animal welfare priorities for my Department. However, my capacity to enact legislation is constrained by both the resources available to me and the time remaining in this current mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013794%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406781","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406781"}},{"id":"406780","reference":"AQW 13793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-25","answerBy":"2024-07-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount spent on private ambulances in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406780","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406780"}},{"id":"406779","reference":"AQW 13792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-25","answerBy":"2024-07-10","answered":"2024-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) to detail any plans she has to review legislation on the purchase and use of BB guns; and (ii) for her assessment of how current legislation is implemented.","answerText":"(i)There are currently no plans to review the legislation on the purchase and use of BB guns in isolation, but this will be kept under review as part of a wider plan that my Department has to review the Northern Ireland legislative framework for firearms. Any proposed change to legislation will require full public consultation.\n\n(ii)A BB or pellet gun is often categorised as a low powered air gun and may also be regarded as an imitation firearm. They are not required to be held on a firearm certificate, if their kinetic energy is less than one joule. There is already significant regulation in place on the control of these items in Northern Ireland.\n\nIt is an offence for a person under the age of 18 to purchase an imitation firearm. It is also an offence for a person to sell an imitation firearm to someone under the age of 18. Police have the power to seize and detain an imitation firearm if they have reasonable grounds for suspecting there is danger to public safety or to the peace.\n\nA person under the age of 17 may not purchase an air gun (those with a kinetic energy in excess of one joule) and a person under 14 may not possess an air gun unless supervised by someone who is aged 21 or over.\n\nTherefore, I am satisfied that there is sufficient legislation, particularly with regard to the age at which a person may possess or purchase such items and the age of a person to whom they may be sold.","answerHtml":"(i)There are currently no plans to review the legislation on the purchase and use of BB guns in isolation, but this will be kept under review as part of a wider plan that my Department has to review the Northern Ireland legislative framework for firearms. Any proposed change to legislation will require full public consultation.
(ii)A BB or pellet gun is often categorised as a low powered air gun and may also be regarded as an imitation firearm. They are not required to be held on a firearm certificate, if their kinetic energy is less than one joule. There is already significant regulation in place on the control of these items in Northern Ireland.
It is an offence for a person under the age of 18 to purchase an imitation firearm. It is also an offence for a person to sell an imitation firearm to someone under the age of 18. Police have the power to seize and detain an imitation firearm if they have reasonable grounds for suspecting there is danger to public safety or to the peace.
A person under the age of 17 may not purchase an air gun (those with a kinetic energy in excess of one joule) and a person under 14 may not possess an air gun unless supervised by someone who is aged 21 or over.
Therefore, I am satisfied that there is sufficient legislation, particularly with regard to the age at which a person may possess or purchase such items and the age of a person to whom they may be sold.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406779","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406779"}},{"id":"406611","reference":"AQW 13737/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-24","answerBy":"2024-07-09","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the implementation of new relationships and sexuality education laws in Northern Ireland’s schools; and (ii) to detail the list of stakeholders his Department will engage with in relation to this.","answerText":"The Relationships and Sexuality Education (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2023, introduced by the Secretary of State were effective from 1 July 2023. Guidance to support the changes made to the curriculum was issued to all post-primary schools on 1 January 2024.\n\nThe Secretary of State’s regulations also placed a duty on my Department to publish a report by 1 September 2026 on the implementation of the changes. Officials will take this forward in due course and this will include engagement with stakeholders.","answerHtml":"The Relationships and Sexuality Education (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2023, introduced by the Secretary of State were effective from 1 July 2023. Guidance to support the changes made to the curriculum was issued to all post-primary schools on 1 January 2024.
The Secretary of State’s regulations also placed a duty on my Department to publish a report by 1 September 2026 on the implementation of the changes. Officials will take this forward in due course and this will include engagement with stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013737%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406611"}},{"id":"406610","reference":"AQW 13736/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-24","answerBy":"2024-07-09","answered":"2024-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on his facilitation to install more electric vehicle charge points; and (ii) to detail the stakeholders he has, and will, engage with in relation to this issue.","answerText":"The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charge points is a commercially led operation. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of those charge points rests solely with the charge point operators (CPOs). In this commercially led market, my officials continue to engage with EV owners and provide advice to CPOs on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.\n\nLocal Councils have been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles (OZEV) ‘On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme’ (ORCS), which my Department has match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council made an application under this scheme in 2021-22, on behalf of nine Local Councils and has recently published its ORCS tender in the eTendersNI portal for charge point operators to provide 127 charge points across those Council areas. Individual Councils are best placed to advise on the number of additional charge points this will provide in their area.\n\nMy Department established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force in December 2021 to consider the EV Infrastructure requirements in the north and to help set out a clear action plan to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. The Task-Force aims to meet quarterly, is chaired by the Department for Infrastructure, and includes representatives from the following bodies or organisations:\n\nConfederation of British Industry\n\nConsumer Council for Northern Ireland\n\nDepartment for the Economy\n\nDerry City and Strabane District Council (lead of local council consortium)\n\nElectric Vehicle Association Northern Ireland\n\nElectricity Supply Board\n\nNIE Networks\n\nUtility Regulator\n\nLatest statistics show there are 564 publicly available EV charge points in the North. This represents a growth of 45% in the total number of available EV charge points since April 2023. Individual charge point operators are best placed to advise you of their plans for future charge point installations.","answerHtml":"The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle (EV) charge points is a commercially led operation. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of those charge points rests solely with the charge point operators (CPOs). In this commercially led market, my officials continue to engage with EV owners and provide advice to CPOs on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.
Local Councils have been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles (OZEV) ‘On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme’ (ORCS), which my Department has match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council made an application under this scheme in 2021-22, on behalf of nine Local Councils and has recently published its ORCS tender in the eTendersNI portal for charge point operators to provide 127 charge points across those Council areas. Individual Councils are best placed to advise on the number of additional charge points this will provide in their area.
My Department established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force in December 2021 to consider the EV Infrastructure requirements in the north and to help set out a clear action plan to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. The Task-Force aims to meet quarterly, is chaired by the Department for Infrastructure, and includes representatives from the following bodies or organisations:
Confederation of British Industry
Consumer Council for Northern Ireland
Department for the Economy
Derry City and Strabane District Council (lead of local council consortium)
Electric Vehicle Association Northern Ireland
Electricity Supply Board
NIE Networks
Utility Regulator
Latest statistics show there are 564 publicly available EV charge points in the North. This represents a growth of 45% in the total number of available EV charge points since April 2023. Individual charge point operators are best placed to advise you of their plans for future charge point installations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013736%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406610","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406610"}},{"id":"406609","reference":"AQW 13735/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-24","answerBy":"2024-07-09","answered":"2024-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the work he plans to undertake with the Minister of Education in relation to addressing self-harm among young people.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) commissions the Self-harm Intervention Programme (SHIP) under the Protect Life 2 Strategy. The PHA is currently in the final stages of re-tendering this service for a further three-year period. SHIP provides psychological interventions for people who self-harm in line with NICE guidelines and is available to both adults and young people aged 11 years and older. Children under 11 years who are engaging in self-harm are not eligible for SHIP and should have their needs met by other services that they are involved with.\n\nCurrently school nurses and school counsellors cannot refer directly to SHIP but they do liaise with the GP or CAMH teams so that the child can be assessed and if SHIP is appropriate for their needs a referral to SHIP can be made by these professionals.\n\nThe PHA have developed a strong partnership approach with Education colleagues in helping to meet the emotional health and wellbeing needs of children and young people. This includes a number of pilot projects under the Department for Education's Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework which can also provide support for self harm. The extension of the RISE NI service into Key Stage 2 aims to specifically support the emotional health and wellbeing needs of children and young people. The Text-a-Nurse service provides a secure and confidential text messaging service for young people aged 11-19, which allows them to easily and anonymously get in touch with a school nurse for advice and support they may need. There is also enhanced school nursing and regional mental health awareness programmes within schools. Mental Health First Aid training is also delivered in schools to staff to support a person who is developing a mental health problem or who is currently in a mental health crisis.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) commissions the Self-harm Intervention Programme (SHIP) under the Protect Life 2 Strategy. The PHA is currently in the final stages of re-tendering this service for a further three-year period. SHIP provides psychological interventions for people who self-harm in line with NICE guidelines and is available to both adults and young people aged 11 years and older. Children under 11 years who are engaging in self-harm are not eligible for SHIP and should have their needs met by other services that they are involved with.
Currently school nurses and school counsellors cannot refer directly to SHIP but they do liaise with the GP or CAMH teams so that the child can be assessed and if SHIP is appropriate for their needs a referral to SHIP can be made by these professionals.
The PHA have developed a strong partnership approach with Education colleagues in helping to meet the emotional health and wellbeing needs of children and young people. This includes a number of pilot projects under the Department for Education's Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework which can also provide support for self harm. The extension of the RISE NI service into Key Stage 2 aims to specifically support the emotional health and wellbeing needs of children and young people. The Text-a-Nurse service provides a secure and confidential text messaging service for young people aged 11-19, which allows them to easily and anonymously get in touch with a school nurse for advice and support they may need. There is also enhanced school nursing and regional mental health awareness programmes within schools. Mental Health First Aid training is also delivered in schools to staff to support a person who is developing a mental health problem or who is currently in a mental health crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013735%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406609","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406609"}},{"id":"406608","reference":"AQW 13734/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-24","answerBy":"2024-07-09","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) any discussions he has had with the Earl of Shaftesbury in relation to the potential transfer of ownership of the bed of Lough Neagh; and (ii) his plans to find or develop a body to whom this ownership can be passed.","answerText":"I met the Earl of Shaftesbury on 21 February 2024 and discussed a range of issues in relation to Lough Neagh including ownership. Following his recent comments on the potential to transfer ownership of the Lough into a charity or Community Trust model, I have written to the Earl requesting a meeting to explore this further.\n\nI welcome the Lough Neagh Heritage Resilience Project currently underway, led by the Lough Neagh Partnership, which is considering the future management of Lough Neagh including ownership. I believe that it is appropriate for this work to be undertaken whilst also personally engaging with Earl of Shaftesbury","answerHtml":"I met the Earl of Shaftesbury on 21 February 2024 and discussed a range of issues in relation to Lough Neagh including ownership. Following his recent comments on the potential to transfer ownership of the Lough into a charity or Community Trust model, I have written to the Earl requesting a meeting to explore this further.
I welcome the Lough Neagh Heritage Resilience Project currently underway, led by the Lough Neagh Partnership, which is considering the future management of Lough Neagh including ownership. I believe that it is appropriate for this work to be undertaken whilst also personally engaging with Earl of Shaftesbury
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013734%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406608","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406608"}},{"id":"406607","reference":"AQW 13733/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-24","answerBy":"2024-07-09","answered":"2024-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in order to reduce the fees paid by his Department for private taxis taking patients to and from appointments, to detail the cross-departmental work he plans with the Department for Infrastructure to ensure better support for community transport services.","answerText":"The eligibility criteria for the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme are published on the NI Direct website:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/help-health-costs\n\nA person is either automatically entitled to a refund if they are in receipt of certain benefits or they have to apply through the Low Income Scheme. A patient may get back all or some of their travel costs depending on which certificate they have been given. Guidance for refunding travel expenses refers to ‘reasonable travel expenses’ and advises that travel costs should be calculated on the basis of the cheapest form of public transport available to the patient.\n\nHealth and Social Care (HSC) Trusts administer the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme on behalf of the Department of Health. HSC Trusts are responsible for informing patients of their entitlement, checking the appropriate travel costs and refunding patients travel costs to which they are entitled.\n\nIf public transport is unavailable or impractical (perhaps the patient can't get to their appointment on time or their mobility is restricted), the patient is advised to contact the hospital in advance of their appointment to check if their new travel arrangements are allowed under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme.\n\nIn 2023, the Department for Infrastructure established a cross-departmental working group on Community Transport, which included active participation from the Department of Health.\n\nThe working group aims:\n\nto maximise the benefits of the current services provided by community transport using existing resources and explore whether any more resources are available; and\n\nto maximise the future potential of community transport.\n\nMy officials have provided an overview of HSC Transport to better define the boundaries between HSC, public transport and Community Transport. Officials are cognisant that people use Community Transport to access HSC and other public services, with further exploration required to understand the drivers behind usage.\n\nThe group have collaboratively developed recommendations for how this work can be further progressed, subject to a Ministerial meeting across relevant departments.","answerHtml":"The eligibility criteria for the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme are published on the NI Direct website:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/help-health-costs
A person is either automatically entitled to a refund if they are in receipt of certain benefits or they have to apply through the Low Income Scheme. A patient may get back all or some of their travel costs depending on which certificate they have been given. Guidance for refunding travel expenses refers to ‘reasonable travel expenses’ and advises that travel costs should be calculated on the basis of the cheapest form of public transport available to the patient.
Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts administer the Hospital Travel Cost Scheme on behalf of the Department of Health. HSC Trusts are responsible for informing patients of their entitlement, checking the appropriate travel costs and refunding patients travel costs to which they are entitled.
If public transport is unavailable or impractical (perhaps the patient can't get to their appointment on time or their mobility is restricted), the patient is advised to contact the hospital in advance of their appointment to check if their new travel arrangements are allowed under the Hospital Travel Costs Scheme.
In 2023, the Department for Infrastructure established a cross-departmental working group on Community Transport, which included active participation from the Department of Health.
The working group aims:
to maximise the benefits of the current services provided by community transport using existing resources and explore whether any more resources are available; and
to maximise the future potential of community transport.
My officials have provided an overview of HSC Transport to better define the boundaries between HSC, public transport and Community Transport. Officials are cognisant that people use Community Transport to access HSC and other public services, with further exploration required to understand the drivers behind usage.
The group have collaboratively developed recommendations for how this work can be further progressed, subject to a Ministerial meeting across relevant departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013733%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406607"}},{"id":"406485","reference":"AQW 13686/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-21","answerBy":"2024-07-08","answered":"2024-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the maintenance loan provided to students who are unable to study their chosen course in Northern Ireland and therefore study in GB where (a) fees are higher; and (b) their peers in GB receive loans closer to the cost of studying; and (ii) what consideration he has given to increasing the student loan amount for students who are unable to study their chosen university course in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Prior to my taking office, the higher education student support package for this year and the coming academic year 2024/25 had already been determined.\n\nCurrently eligible students from here studying in Britain may be eligible for a tuition fee loan of up to £9,250, a maintenance grant of up to £3,475 and a maintenance loan of up to £6,776, or up to £9,492 if studying in London.\n\nSince I came into post, I have been clear about my wish to strengthen the support provided to students and I will be considering a number of options going forward.","answerHtml":"Prior to my taking office, the higher education student support package for this year and the coming academic year 2024/25 had already been determined.
Currently eligible students from here studying in Britain may be eligible for a tuition fee loan of up to £9,250, a maintenance grant of up to £3,475 and a maintenance loan of up to £6,776, or up to £9,492 if studying in London.
Since I came into post, I have been clear about my wish to strengthen the support provided to students and I will be considering a number of options going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013686%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406485"}},{"id":"406484","reference":"AQW 13685/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-21","answerBy":"2024-07-08","answered":"2024-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any consideration he has given to better financially support students who achieve places at highly ranked universities in Great Britain but for whom the fees are prohibitively expensive.","answerText":"For academic year 2024/25 students domiciled here can apply for a tuition fee loan of up to £9,250 to pay for the undergraduate tuition fees charged at publicly funded universities in England, Scotland and Wales. Undergraduate home fees will be capped at £9,250 in England, Scotland and Wales in academic year 2024/25.\n\nThe tuition fee loan available to postgraduate students was increased to £6,500 in academic year 2023/2024 following a review and consultation on the level of postgraduate tuition fee loans.\n\nSince I came into post I have been clear about my wish to strengthen the support provided to students and I will be considering a number of options going forward.","answerHtml":"For academic year 2024/25 students domiciled here can apply for a tuition fee loan of up to £9,250 to pay for the undergraduate tuition fees charged at publicly funded universities in England, Scotland and Wales. Undergraduate home fees will be capped at £9,250 in England, Scotland and Wales in academic year 2024/25.
The tuition fee loan available to postgraduate students was increased to £6,500 in academic year 2023/2024 following a review and consultation on the level of postgraduate tuition fee loans.
Since I came into post I have been clear about my wish to strengthen the support provided to students and I will be considering a number of options going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013685%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406484","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406484"}},{"id":"406483","reference":"AQW 13684/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-21","answerBy":"2024-07-08","answered":"2024-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has undertaken, or plans to undertake, an impact assessment of the impact on those older people who are moved into a nursing home or a care home due to a domiciliary care package being unavailable.","answerText":"My officials have established a Project Steering Group which has been set up to review Home Care Services specifically. One of the sub-groups within the Project Steering Group has been tasked to examine the impact waiting in a care home or at home on a new package of domiciliary care is having on the service user.\n\nI recognise that waiting in a care home for a domiciliary care package is not an ideal situation and I understand the distress and de-conditioning impact this may have on individuals.\n\nThrough the Social Care Collaborative Forum my officials are working with the Statutory and Independent Sector to identify ways to grow the domiciliary care workforce and to maximize the capacity we currently have.","answerHtml":"My officials have established a Project Steering Group which has been set up to review Home Care Services specifically. One of the sub-groups within the Project Steering Group has been tasked to examine the impact waiting in a care home or at home on a new package of domiciliary care is having on the service user.
I recognise that waiting in a care home for a domiciliary care package is not an ideal situation and I understand the distress and de-conditioning impact this may have on individuals.
Through the Social Care Collaborative Forum my officials are working with the Statutory and Independent Sector to identify ways to grow the domiciliary care workforce and to maximize the capacity we currently have.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013684%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406483"}},{"id":"406482","reference":"AQW 13683/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-21","answerBy":"2024-07-08","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail his plans to progress the adoption of Lucy’s Law.","answerText":"I intend to deliver Lucy’s Law within the lifetime of this Assembly mandate.\n\nMy officials are developing options for my consideration. I will carefully consider all these options and then decide on the best one for appropriately regulating third-party sales of pups and kittens in Northern Ireland. Any proposals will be publicly consulted on.","answerHtml":"I intend to deliver Lucy’s Law within the lifetime of this Assembly mandate.
My officials are developing options for my consideration. I will carefully consider all these options and then decide on the best one for appropriately regulating third-party sales of pups and kittens in Northern Ireland. Any proposals will be publicly consulted on.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013683%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406482"}},{"id":"406481","reference":"AQW 13682/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-21","answerBy":"2024-07-08","answered":"2024-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any plans she has to (i) strengthen legislation; and (ii) undertake a sentencing review, for perpetrators of animal cruelty.","answerText":"I do not have any plans to (i) strengthen legislation; nor (ii) undertake a sentencing review, for perpetrators of animal cruelty, as policy responsibility for the welfare of animals sits with DAERA.\n\nAny decision to strengthen legislation or undertake a sentencing review for animal cruelty offences under the Welfare of Animals (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 is, therefore, a matter for DAERA.\n\nHowever, I have confirmed that I am open to discussing with him how best my Department can support his, if a policy decision is made by his Department to strengthen legislation or undertake a sentencing review for animal welfare offences.","answerHtml":"I do not have any plans to (i) strengthen legislation; nor (ii) undertake a sentencing review, for perpetrators of animal cruelty, as policy responsibility for the welfare of animals sits with DAERA.
Any decision to strengthen legislation or undertake a sentencing review for animal cruelty offences under the Welfare of Animals (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 is, therefore, a matter for DAERA.
However, I have confirmed that I am open to discussing with him how best my Department can support his, if a policy decision is made by his Department to strengthen legislation or undertake a sentencing review for animal welfare offences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013682%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406481"}},{"id":"406321","reference":"AQW 13627/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-20","answerBy":"2024-07-05","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on work that (i) has been carried out; and (ii) is planned with (a) the PSNI; (b) government departments; and (c) other organisations to assist in the prevention of livestock theft.","answerText":"My department does not have a role in preventing livestock theft. While there is a specific legal obligation to notify my Department of the theft of cattle, and the circumstances of any theft, this is for the purpose of ensuring our identification and registration records are up to date, to allow for the maintenance of the Northern Ireland food traceability regime.\n\nThe Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is responsible for enforcing legislation in relation to the theft of livestock. My Department has a strong working relationship with the PSNI and will continue to cooperate with the PSNI in respect of any relevant investigations of livestock theft, as necessary.\n\nMy Department is also happy to cooperate, where appropriate, with any other organisation and government department with an intertest in the prevention of livestock theft.","answerHtml":"My department does not have a role in preventing livestock theft. While there is a specific legal obligation to notify my Department of the theft of cattle, and the circumstances of any theft, this is for the purpose of ensuring our identification and registration records are up to date, to allow for the maintenance of the Northern Ireland food traceability regime.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is responsible for enforcing legislation in relation to the theft of livestock. My Department has a strong working relationship with the PSNI and will continue to cooperate with the PSNI in respect of any relevant investigations of livestock theft, as necessary.
My Department is also happy to cooperate, where appropriate, with any other organisation and government department with an intertest in the prevention of livestock theft.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013627%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406321","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406321"}},{"id":"406320","reference":"AQW 13626/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-20","answerBy":"2024-07-05","answered":"2024-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on any further work planned to connect the Ulster Canal with Lough Neagh, and therefore the lower Bann, in order to open up this area to boating tourism.","answerText":"In July 2007, it was agreed by the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) to extend Waterways Ireland’s remit to include responsibility for the restoration of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones, and following restoration, its management, maintenance, and development, principally for recreational purposes.\n\nThe Ulster Canal Restoration project from Lough Erne to Clones is being constructed in three phases.\n\nPhase 1: Lough Erne to Castle Saunderson was completed in 2019\n\nPhase 2: Clones to Clonfad was completed June 2024\n\nPhase 3: Clonfad to Castlesaunderson:\n\nThis final section will connect the 10km between Castle Saunderson and Clonfad and link the town of Clones by navigable waterway to the Erne System and onward to the wider waterway network.\n\nPhase 3 will be the largest and most challenging and work is already underway to ensure an application for renewed planning permission will be made later this year.\n\nWaterways Ireland are working with the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) in Northern Ireland on the Fermanagh elements of Phase 3. Estimated completion of all elements, subject to funding, is 2028/29.\n\nWhile there are no plans currently to expand the Ulster Canal restoration project to include a connection with Lough Neagh, DfI has expressed a keenness to move this project forward in line with the expressed commitment in the Stormont House Agreement, A Fresh Start: The Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan.","answerHtml":"In July 2007, it was agreed by the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) to extend Waterways Ireland’s remit to include responsibility for the restoration of the Ulster Canal from Upper Lough Erne to Clones, and following restoration, its management, maintenance, and development, principally for recreational purposes.
The Ulster Canal Restoration project from Lough Erne to Clones is being constructed in three phases.
Phase 1: Lough Erne to Castle Saunderson was completed in 2019
Phase 2: Clones to Clonfad was completed June 2024
Phase 3: Clonfad to Castlesaunderson:
This final section will connect the 10km between Castle Saunderson and Clonfad and link the town of Clones by navigable waterway to the Erne System and onward to the wider waterway network.
Phase 3 will be the largest and most challenging and work is already underway to ensure an application for renewed planning permission will be made later this year.
Waterways Ireland are working with the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) in Northern Ireland on the Fermanagh elements of Phase 3. Estimated completion of all elements, subject to funding, is 2028/29.
While there are no plans currently to expand the Ulster Canal restoration project to include a connection with Lough Neagh, DfI has expressed a keenness to move this project forward in line with the expressed commitment in the Stormont House Agreement, A Fresh Start: The Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013626%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406320","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406320"}},{"id":"406319","reference":"AQW 13625/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-20","answerBy":"2024-07-05","answered":"2024-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he plans to develop a programme similar to England’s Education Health and Care plan to help the future education or training of young people with special educational needs.","answerText":"This matter is currently under consideration as part of the ongoing End to End (E2E) Review of Special Educational Needs (SEN).","answerHtml":"This matter is currently under consideration as part of the ongoing End to End (E2E) Review of Special Educational Needs (SEN).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013625%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406319","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406319"}},{"id":"406318","reference":"AQW 13624/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-20","answerBy":"2024-07-05","answered":"2024-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to increase the amount spent per-capita on mental health in Northern Ireland in order to bring it closer in line to that spent in other parts of the UK.","answerText":"Given the budget that my department has been allocated this year it is not possible to make firm plans to increase overall spending on HSC services. However, it is my intention to look at longer term planning for the HSC as a whole to consider how best services can be delivered to bring them onto a sustainable footing and enable unmet need to be addressed. Planning for mental health spending will be an integral part of this process.","answerHtml":"Given the budget that my department has been allocated this year it is not possible to make firm plans to increase overall spending on HSC services. However, it is my intention to look at longer term planning for the HSC as a whole to consider how best services can be delivered to bring them onto a sustainable footing and enable unmet need to be addressed. Planning for mental health spending will be an integral part of this process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406318"}},{"id":"405823","reference":"AQW 13449/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-17","answerBy":"2024-07-02","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether his Department holds information on the countries that have successfully eradicated bovine TB through the use of the same Single Intradermal Comparative Cervical Tuberculin skin test as is used in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Tuberculin skin test is the main diagnostic test for bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) internationally approved for use by the World Organisation for Animal Health.\n\nMy department does not hold specific information on the use of this test in countries that have successfully eradicated bovine TB however, my officials have advised that this would have been the main diagnostic method for identifying bTB in those countries.","answerHtml":"The Tuberculin skin test is the main diagnostic test for bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) internationally approved for use by the World Organisation for Animal Health.
My department does not hold specific information on the use of this test in countries that have successfully eradicated bovine TB however, my officials have advised that this would have been the main diagnostic method for identifying bTB in those countries.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013449%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405823","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405823"}},{"id":"405822","reference":"AQW 13448/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-17","answerBy":"2024-07-02","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) how the effectiveness of differing approaches to bovine TB eradication in neighbouring jurisdictions informs his Department's work; and (ii) whether he will pursue a similar strategy as Wales, which does not use badger culls, due to its statistically greater effectiveness since 2012.","answerText":"As part of the Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) Eradication Strategy developed by my department, the effectiveness of differing approaches to bTB eradication in neighbouring jurisdictions was considered in detail.\n\nMy officials meet regularly with colleagues in neighbouring jurisdictions to discuss current issues, research and policy developments relating to bTB. In March 2024, my department hosted the UK TB Liaison Group (TBLG) in Belfast, bringing together bTB officials from across the UK with officials from the Department of Fisheries, Agriculture and the Marine (DAFM) in the Republic of Ireland (RoI) also in attendance. My officials also meet separately with DAFM colleagues twice yearly to discuss bTB matters of mutual interest.\n\nThe objective of these meetings is to share information and best practice, and, where appropriate, inform officials’ recommendations to their respective Ministers.\n\nThe wildlife intervention element of the department’s bTB Eradiation Strategy was overturned in October 2023 following a judicial review taken by Wild Justice and the Northern Ireland Badger Group. My officials are currently reflecting on the issues and gaps identified by the judicial review ruling in order to provide detailed advice on wildlife options for my consideration.\n\nConsequently, the Department does not have a wildlife intervention policy in place and this area remains policy in development which will require further public consultation.\n\nIn relation to the approach in Wales, the Welsh Government is pursuing a badger vaccination policy alongside a range of measures to tackle the spread of the disease between cattle. My officials are currently working to provide me with advice on proposals for a way forward for wildlife intervention, this will include an assessment on the Welsh approach along with the approaches in place in other neighbouring jurisdictions.","answerHtml":"As part of the Bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) Eradication Strategy developed by my department, the effectiveness of differing approaches to bTB eradication in neighbouring jurisdictions was considered in detail.
My officials meet regularly with colleagues in neighbouring jurisdictions to discuss current issues, research and policy developments relating to bTB. In March 2024, my department hosted the UK TB Liaison Group (TBLG) in Belfast, bringing together bTB officials from across the UK with officials from the Department of Fisheries, Agriculture and the Marine (DAFM) in the Republic of Ireland (RoI) also in attendance. My officials also meet separately with DAFM colleagues twice yearly to discuss bTB matters of mutual interest.
The objective of these meetings is to share information and best practice, and, where appropriate, inform officials’ recommendations to their respective Ministers.
The wildlife intervention element of the department’s bTB Eradiation Strategy was overturned in October 2023 following a judicial review taken by Wild Justice and the Northern Ireland Badger Group. My officials are currently reflecting on the issues and gaps identified by the judicial review ruling in order to provide detailed advice on wildlife options for my consideration.
Consequently, the Department does not have a wildlife intervention policy in place and this area remains policy in development which will require further public consultation.
In relation to the approach in Wales, the Welsh Government is pursuing a badger vaccination policy alongside a range of measures to tackle the spread of the disease between cattle. My officials are currently working to provide me with advice on proposals for a way forward for wildlife intervention, this will include an assessment on the Welsh approach along with the approaches in place in other neighbouring jurisdictions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013448%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405822"}},{"id":"405821","reference":"AQW 13447/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-17","answerBy":"2024-07-02","answered":"2024-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, in relation to the recent bovine TB review, to detail (i) the terms of reference he has asked the Chief Veterinary Officer to complete in relation to developing a bovine TB strategy, including anticipated timelines; and (ii) with whom he will be engaging as part of this process.","answerText":"The review currently being undertaken by the Chief Veterinary Officer will examine all matters relating to bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) programme and policy, including the actions contained in the bTB Eradication Strategy.\n\nThis review will engage with a range of external stakeholders and departmental staff as well as considering best practice and issues in neighbouring jurisdictions.\n\nThe CVO keeps me regularly updated on progress. I anticipate that the review will result in a delivery plan to be in place from this autumn which will outline our approach to bTB eradication over the remainder of the mandate.","answerHtml":"The review currently being undertaken by the Chief Veterinary Officer will examine all matters relating to bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) programme and policy, including the actions contained in the bTB Eradication Strategy.
This review will engage with a range of external stakeholders and departmental staff as well as considering best practice and issues in neighbouring jurisdictions.
The CVO keeps me regularly updated on progress. I anticipate that the review will result in a delivery plan to be in place from this autumn which will outline our approach to bTB eradication over the remainder of the mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013447%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405821"}},{"id":"405820","reference":"AQW 13446/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-17","answerBy":"2024-07-02","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of (i) the rate at which bovine TB skin tests provide false negative results; (ii) the impact this has on the spread of bovine TB; and (iii) how this will influence a change in his Department’s bovine TB eradication programme.","answerText":"Tests for the identification of bovine TB (bTB) in cattle for use in Northern Ireland require the appropriate international approvals from the World Organisation for Animal Health and the European Union.\n\nThe Comparative Intradermal Tuberculin Test (skin test) and the interferon gamma blood test (IFNg) are currently the only two such tests approved in European legislation (Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689).\n\nBovine TB is a difficult disease to diagnose and no diagnostic test for it is perfect. The effectiveness of any diagnostic test is related to the sensitivity and specificity of the test.\n\nSensitivity is the ability of a test to correctly identify an infected animal as positive, i.e. the higher the sensitivity of the test, the lower the probability of incorrectly classifying an infected animal as uninfected (a false negative result). The test can be interpreted at standard or severe interpretation.\n\nStudies carried out in Great Britain have shown that skin test sensitivity lies between 52% and 100% with an average of about 80% sensitivity at standard interpretation and slightly higher at severe interpretation.\n\nIn practical terms this means that where infection is present in a herd, approximately 20% of TB-infected cattle can be missed by one round of skin testing using standard interpretation. Repeating the skin test and/or using severe interpretation increases the likelihood of detecting the infected animals in a herd.\n\nSpecificity is the ability of a test to correctly identify an animal that is free from infection as negative, i.e. the higher the specificity, the lower the probability of classifying an uninfected animal as infected (a false positive result). The skin test is regarded as having a test specificity of 99.98%. This means that it is very rare that a non-infected animal will be wrongly classified as infected. If severe interpretation is used to increase the sensitivity of the test, the specificity is lowered, i.e. more false positive animals will be taken. That is why severe interpretation is not usually used in routine surveillance testing.\n\nThe non-disclosure of infected animals is a recognised problem for eradication programmes across both the UK and Ireland. Non-disclosed infection poses a risk of spread within herds, and between herds, and recurrence of herd breakdowns. The risk of leaving residual infection in diseased herds can be mitigated to some extent by other methods including the use of severe interpretation, the removal of negative high risk animals, serial skin testing and the use of IFNg as an additional test.\n\nSevere interpretation is applied to all breakdown tests where bTB has been confirmed or where there is more than one reactor animal, and herds are subject to more frequent testing for up to a year post-derestriction. My Department’s vets are encouraged to consider if other animals in the herd pose an increased risk even if they have skin tested negative.\n\nSome breakdown herds will be offered the chance to use IFNg testing to try to disclose infection in the herd at an earlier stage than may be revealed by skin testing. IFNg testing will also disclose infected animals that the skin test may miss, but it is a supplement to the skin test rather than a replacement for the skin test.","answerHtml":"Tests for the identification of bovine TB (bTB) in cattle for use in Northern Ireland require the appropriate international approvals from the World Organisation for Animal Health and the European Union.
The Comparative Intradermal Tuberculin Test (skin test) and the interferon gamma blood test (IFNg) are currently the only two such tests approved in European legislation (Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/689).
Bovine TB is a difficult disease to diagnose and no diagnostic test for it is perfect. The effectiveness of any diagnostic test is related to the sensitivity and specificity of the test.
Sensitivity is the ability of a test to correctly identify an infected animal as positive, i.e. the higher the sensitivity of the test, the lower the probability of incorrectly classifying an infected animal as uninfected (a false negative result). The test can be interpreted at standard or severe interpretation.
Studies carried out in Great Britain have shown that skin test sensitivity lies between 52% and 100% with an average of about 80% sensitivity at standard interpretation and slightly higher at severe interpretation.
In practical terms this means that where infection is present in a herd, approximately 20% of TB-infected cattle can be missed by one round of skin testing using standard interpretation. Repeating the skin test and/or using severe interpretation increases the likelihood of detecting the infected animals in a herd.
Specificity is the ability of a test to correctly identify an animal that is free from infection as negative, i.e. the higher the specificity, the lower the probability of classifying an uninfected animal as infected (a false positive result). The skin test is regarded as having a test specificity of 99.98%. This means that it is very rare that a non-infected animal will be wrongly classified as infected. If severe interpretation is used to increase the sensitivity of the test, the specificity is lowered, i.e. more false positive animals will be taken. That is why severe interpretation is not usually used in routine surveillance testing.
The non-disclosure of infected animals is a recognised problem for eradication programmes across both the UK and Ireland. Non-disclosed infection poses a risk of spread within herds, and between herds, and recurrence of herd breakdowns. The risk of leaving residual infection in diseased herds can be mitigated to some extent by other methods including the use of severe interpretation, the removal of negative high risk animals, serial skin testing and the use of IFNg as an additional test.
Severe interpretation is applied to all breakdown tests where bTB has been confirmed or where there is more than one reactor animal, and herds are subject to more frequent testing for up to a year post-derestriction. My Department’s vets are encouraged to consider if other animals in the herd pose an increased risk even if they have skin tested negative.
Some breakdown herds will be offered the chance to use IFNg testing to try to disclose infection in the herd at an earlier stage than may be revealed by skin testing. IFNg testing will also disclose infected animals that the skin test may miss, but it is a supplement to the skin test rather than a replacement for the skin test.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013446%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405820"}},{"id":"405819","reference":"AQW 13445/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-17","answerBy":"2024-07-02","answered":"2024-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of schools currently supplying students with free period products.","answerText":"My Department has provided funding for free period products in schools since September 2021, under the Period Dignity Pilot Scheme. The scheme will conclude on 30 June 2024 to make way for extended, permanent provision under the Period Products (Free Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 (The Act).\n\nIn April 2023, 88.3% (1,053) of pupils, responding to a CCEA survey on the pilot scheme, confirmed that free period products were available in their school. Overall school engagement with the pilot scheme was excellent and is set out in the following table:\n\nSector\tNumber of schools\tNumber of schools ordering through scheme supplier\t%\nGrammar\t73\t62\t85%\nSecondary\t150\t135\t90%\nSpecial\t37\t37\t100%\nTotal\t260\t234\t90%\nAdjusted *\t248\t234\t94%\n\n*Adjusted for 12 non-ordering boys’ schools\n\n796 (100%) of Primary Schools were provided with an allocation of free period products at the start of each academic year and a small number of post-primary schools made their own purchasing arrangements. These schools are not included in the above table.","answerHtml":"My Department has provided funding for free period products in schools since September 2021, under the Period Dignity Pilot Scheme. The scheme will conclude on 30 June 2024 to make way for extended, permanent provision under the Period Products (Free Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 (The Act).
In April 2023, 88.3% (1,053) of pupils, responding to a CCEA survey on the pilot scheme, confirmed that free period products were available in their school. Overall school engagement with the pilot scheme was excellent and is set out in the following table:
| Sector | Number of schools | Number of schools ordering through scheme supplier | % |
| Grammar | 73 | 62 | 85% |
| Secondary | 150 | 135 | 90% |
| Special | 37 | 37 | 100% |
| Total | 260 | 234 | 90% |
| Adjusted * | 248 | 234 | 94% |
*Adjusted for 12 non-ordering boys’ schools
796 (100%) of Primary Schools were provided with an allocation of free period products at the start of each academic year and a small number of post-primary schools made their own purchasing arrangements. These schools are not included in the above table.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013445%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405819"}},{"id":"405481","reference":"AQW 13331/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-13","answerBy":"2024-06-28","answered":"2024-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what plans he has to ensure the cost of farming essentials, such as seed, fertiliser and other goods and equipment, do not become prohibitively expensive for farmers, particularly family farmers.","answerText":"Input costs and farmgate prices change frequently. These changes are mainly due to price pressures across world markets which are very much outside our control. Consequently, my Department focuses effort on helping farmers mitigate cost and price pressures by improving productivity and efficiency. The new agricultural support framework has been designed to help farm businesses improve their productivity, resilience, and environmental sustainability. CAFRE continues to offer relevant training and support also.","answerHtml":"Input costs and farmgate prices change frequently. These changes are mainly due to price pressures across world markets which are very much outside our control. Consequently, my Department focuses effort on helping farmers mitigate cost and price pressures by improving productivity and efficiency. The new agricultural support framework has been designed to help farm businesses improve their productivity, resilience, and environmental sustainability. CAFRE continues to offer relevant training and support also.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013331%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405481"}},{"id":"405480","reference":"AQW 13330/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-13","answerBy":"2024-06-28","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will improve the support available for people transitioning to becoming carers for friends or family.","answerText":"My Department is committed to supporting carers. In 2023, following the Reform of Adult Social Care Consultation, my Department established the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The forum provides a formal mechanism to implement reforms to adult social care and in doing so supports opportunities for greater co-operation, co-production and joined up working between the Department, the social care sector, and across Government.\n\nThe work of the Forum is being taken forward through a number of workstreams, which meet on a regular basis. A Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers NI and my Department, has been established with a workplan focused on improving support for unpaid carers. Whilst the workstream does not have a specific focus on individuals who are new or recently transitioning into unpaid care, its objectives include bringing forward recommendations which can help to improve support and recognition for all unpaid carers in contact with the health and social care. Work underway includes exploring options to improve information services for unpaid carers and improving identification and registration for carers. In addition, the workstream has recently established a Cross Departmental Senior Officials Group, chaired by the Department of Health. The group facilitates an integrated, cross government approach to supporting unpaid carers across society.\n\nWe continue to work within the context of an extremely challenging financial environment. The work of the Social Care Collaborative Forum Supporting Carers Workstream is subject to confirmation of funding, and future implementation into service delivery of the workstream’s objectives will require prioritisation and planning, and longer-term budget stability. My Department will continue to support our carers, and we are committed to providing those supports both practical and financial for them, resources permitting.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to supporting carers. In 2023, following the Reform of Adult Social Care Consultation, my Department established the Social Care Collaborative Forum. The forum provides a formal mechanism to implement reforms to adult social care and in doing so supports opportunities for greater co-operation, co-production and joined up working between the Department, the social care sector, and across Government.
The work of the Forum is being taken forward through a number of workstreams, which meet on a regular basis. A Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers NI and my Department, has been established with a workplan focused on improving support for unpaid carers. Whilst the workstream does not have a specific focus on individuals who are new or recently transitioning into unpaid care, its objectives include bringing forward recommendations which can help to improve support and recognition for all unpaid carers in contact with the health and social care. Work underway includes exploring options to improve information services for unpaid carers and improving identification and registration for carers. In addition, the workstream has recently established a Cross Departmental Senior Officials Group, chaired by the Department of Health. The group facilitates an integrated, cross government approach to supporting unpaid carers across society.
We continue to work within the context of an extremely challenging financial environment. The work of the Social Care Collaborative Forum Supporting Carers Workstream is subject to confirmation of funding, and future implementation into service delivery of the workstream’s objectives will require prioritisation and planning, and longer-term budget stability. My Department will continue to support our carers, and we are committed to providing those supports both practical and financial for them, resources permitting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013330%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405480"}},{"id":"406667","reference":"AQO 647/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-13","answerBy":"2024-06-24","answered":"2024-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline what measures he can take to address staff shortages in hospitality businesses along the North Coast.","answerText":"Question 8 - AQO 647/22-27\n\nI met with Hospitality Ulster earlier this month to help launch its guide to recruiting the over 50s, developed in partnership with Tourism NI. We discussed issues around staff recruitment and retention and how my Department can support the hospitality sector to have the right people with the right skills.\n\nTourism NI delivers numerous interventions to support businesses recruit and retain good people. The most visible, the ‘Make It Here’ campaign, highlights the many positives of this sector.\n\nI am delighted to see many businesses sign up to the Wellbeing Promise, a commitment for hospitality employers to create a positive working environment.\n\nFurthermore, I have directed Tourism NI to develop an Employers Excellence Programme, supporting tourism & hospitality businesses create excellent workplaces offering good jobs.\n\nMy Department is also progressing the creation of bespoke Tourism & Hospitality Academies.\n\nLast year, the Skill Up programme delivered “Get into Hospitality”, enabling participants to gain practical experience and an accreditation.","answerHtml":"Question 8 - AQO 647/22-27
I met with Hospitality Ulster earlier this month to help launch its guide to recruiting the over 50s, developed in partnership with Tourism NI. We discussed issues around staff recruitment and retention and how my Department can support the hospitality sector to have the right people with the right skills.
Tourism NI delivers numerous interventions to support businesses recruit and retain good people. The most visible, the ‘Make It Here’ campaign, highlights the many positives of this sector.
I am delighted to see many businesses sign up to the Wellbeing Promise, a commitment for hospitality employers to create a positive working environment.
Furthermore, I have directed Tourism NI to develop an Employers Excellence Programme, supporting tourism & hospitality businesses create excellent workplaces offering good jobs.
My Department is also progressing the creation of bespoke Tourism & Hospitality Academies.
Last year, the Skill Up programme delivered “Get into Hospitality”, enabling participants to gain practical experience and an accreditation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20647%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=406667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=406667"}},{"id":"405357","reference":"AQW 13277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2024-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how she is working with (i) the PSNI; (ii) the British and Irish government; and (iii) overseas counterparts, to prevent and prosecute international scammers targeting older people.","answerText":"Scams targeting older people are particularly cruel, often preying on someone’s loneliness, vulnerability, fear, or kindness to gain access to their personal information and ultimately their money.\n\nMy Department helps to address harm and vulnerability caused by fraud and supports partnership working to tackle the threat of scams through its membership of the ScamwiseNI Partnership, which is chaired by the PSNI. The Partnership was established eight years ago and now has over 45 partners who work collaboratively to provide valuable information and crucial advice to keep the public informed, aware and vigilant. It has an effective online presence which is managed by staff from the Office of the Commissioner for Older People (COPNI) and the Department of Justice uses its own social media channels (Twitter & Instagram) to highlight current scams and the steps people can take to protect themselves.\n\nAs part of its membership of ScamwiseNI, multi-national IT company Allstate has made its cyber safety sessions, including those focused on older adults, available to members of the public across Northern Ireland.\n\nScamwiseNI launched its most recent campaign on 13 October 2023. The six-month long campaign featured radio and newspaper advertisements, along with posters in public transport spaces, including bus shelters and inside buses. Its aim was to help empower older people and those who are not regularly online to stay safe against scammers.\n\nIn addition, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Policing Board, the Department provides annual funding of £4.5m to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), across each of the 11 council areas, who lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues at a local level. That funding is utilised by the PCSPs across Northern Ireland to fund a range of locally identified projects and initiatives which include projects to help address scams and frauds as well as internet safety awareness raising initiatives and campaigns.\n\nFor example, Lisburn & Castlereagh PCSP in partnership with PSNI delivered 20 sessions to community groups involving 705 pensioners during 2023-24. These sessions covered crime prevention including a wide range of scams including international scams. Similarly, Fermanagh and Omagh PCSP carried out 12 scam awareness presentations to elderly groups. In Derry and Strabane, Community Safety Wardens regularly cover scam awareness as part of their talks to older persons groups. Also during 2023/24, the wardens attended 134 community engagement meetings with 1,567 residents attending. All PCSPs provide similar projects which target scam awareness, often with a focus on the elderly.\n\nInformation and advice on preventing and reporting cyber crimes, and on the PSNI work to tackle fraud and scams is available in the Organised Crime Task Force Annual Report available at: OCTF Annual Report and Threat Assessment 22-23 | Department of Justice (justice-ni.gov.uk)\n\nTackling scams from international or UK based criminals is also a priority for the PSNI. The Economic Crime Unit leads on this work and reviews all reports of scams to the PSNI and monitors the UK wide trends. The PSNI is also engaged with aspects of work to implement the UK Fraud Strategy. It works with UK and international law enforcement partners to identify and tackle emerging scams and assists in investigations impacting victims in Northern Ireland. As an example, the PSNI regularly obtains lists of potential victims seized from scammers. The PSNI action this by visiting potential victims in person to provide safeguarding advice and guidance.","answerHtml":"Scams targeting older people are particularly cruel, often preying on someone’s loneliness, vulnerability, fear, or kindness to gain access to their personal information and ultimately their money.
My Department helps to address harm and vulnerability caused by fraud and supports partnership working to tackle the threat of scams through its membership of the ScamwiseNI Partnership, which is chaired by the PSNI. The Partnership was established eight years ago and now has over 45 partners who work collaboratively to provide valuable information and crucial advice to keep the public informed, aware and vigilant. It has an effective online presence which is managed by staff from the Office of the Commissioner for Older People (COPNI) and the Department of Justice uses its own social media channels (Twitter & Instagram) to highlight current scams and the steps people can take to protect themselves.
As part of its membership of ScamwiseNI, multi-national IT company Allstate has made its cyber safety sessions, including those focused on older adults, available to members of the public across Northern Ireland.
ScamwiseNI launched its most recent campaign on 13 October 2023. The six-month long campaign featured radio and newspaper advertisements, along with posters in public transport spaces, including bus shelters and inside buses. Its aim was to help empower older people and those who are not regularly online to stay safe against scammers.
In addition, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Policing Board, the Department provides annual funding of £4.5m to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), across each of the 11 council areas, who lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues at a local level. That funding is utilised by the PCSPs across Northern Ireland to fund a range of locally identified projects and initiatives which include projects to help address scams and frauds as well as internet safety awareness raising initiatives and campaigns.
For example, Lisburn & Castlereagh PCSP in partnership with PSNI delivered 20 sessions to community groups involving 705 pensioners during 2023-24. These sessions covered crime prevention including a wide range of scams including international scams. Similarly, Fermanagh and Omagh PCSP carried out 12 scam awareness presentations to elderly groups. In Derry and Strabane, Community Safety Wardens regularly cover scam awareness as part of their talks to older persons groups. Also during 2023/24, the wardens attended 134 community engagement meetings with 1,567 residents attending. All PCSPs provide similar projects which target scam awareness, often with a focus on the elderly.
Information and advice on preventing and reporting cyber crimes, and on the PSNI work to tackle fraud and scams is available in the Organised Crime Task Force Annual Report available at: OCTF Annual Report and Threat Assessment 22-23 | Department of Justice (justice-ni.gov.uk)
Tackling scams from international or UK based criminals is also a priority for the PSNI. The Economic Crime Unit leads on this work and reviews all reports of scams to the PSNI and monitors the UK wide trends. The PSNI is also engaged with aspects of work to implement the UK Fraud Strategy. It works with UK and international law enforcement partners to identify and tackle emerging scams and assists in investigations impacting victims in Northern Ireland. As an example, the PSNI regularly obtains lists of potential victims seized from scammers. The PSNI action this by visiting potential victims in person to provide safeguarding advice and guidance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405357"}},{"id":"405356","reference":"AQW 13276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any impact assessment carried out prior to the raising of the free-school meals threshold from £14,000 a year to £15,000 a year; and (ii) the number of families eligible for free school meals in each of the last five years.","answerText":"On 7 June I announced an interim rise in the income threshold for those applying for free school meals and uniform on the basis of being in receipt of Universal Credit. This interim rise has been implemented pending the completion of the review of the free school meals and uniform grant eligibility criteria and seeks to ensure that broadly the same number of children and young people are able to access these supports in the 24/25 academic year. All relevant impact assessments will be undertaken as part of the completion of the overall review.\n\nThe Department does not hold data on the number of families that are entitled to free school meals. Listed below are the number of pupils entitled to free school meals in the last five years taken from the school census:\n\nAcademic Year\tNumber of pupils entitled to free school meals\n19/20\t96,697\n20/21\t97,592\n21/22\t98,804\n22/23\t96,231\n23/24\t94,975","answerHtml":"On 7 June I announced an interim rise in the income threshold for those applying for free school meals and uniform on the basis of being in receipt of Universal Credit. This interim rise has been implemented pending the completion of the review of the free school meals and uniform grant eligibility criteria and seeks to ensure that broadly the same number of children and young people are able to access these supports in the 24/25 academic year. All relevant impact assessments will be undertaken as part of the completion of the overall review.
The Department does not hold data on the number of families that are entitled to free school meals. Listed below are the number of pupils entitled to free school meals in the last five years taken from the school census:
| Academic Year | Number of pupils entitled to free school meals |
| 19/20 | 96,697 |
| 20/21 | 97,592 |
| 21/22 | 98,804 |
| 22/23 | 96,231 |
| 23/24 | 94,975 |
(i) For many food commodities, production in Northern Ireland exceeds local consumption and hence the importance of export markets to the agri-food sector. However, there are food products not produced in large quantities in Northern Ireland mostly due to climate conditions.
Therefore, to meet the food needs of the Northern Ireland population, we also require imports of certain foods as well as imports of inputs such as feed, fertiliser and fuel to enable domestic production.
I am confident in Northern Ireland's food security due to a combination of a strong agri-food sector and robust supply chains with reliable trade partners.
(ii) I am focused on ensuring longer term solutions to prevent crises and preserve our food security. I am keen to explore how we better utilise science and technology to inform future policies and ensure our food supplies are resilient.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013275%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405355"}},{"id":"405354","reference":"AQW 13274/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2024-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how he is working with (i) developers; and (ii) wastewater management professionals to reduce the amount of wastewater entering sewerage systems to enable more buildings and properties to be built in areas where capacity is at or near its limit.","answerText":"My Department encourages developers and wastewater management professionals to use Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), to help remove surface water from the sewer network and free up capacity for wastewater. This can also reduce flooding and pollution risks.\n\nIn addition, I frequently ask developers and wastewater management professionals to engage early with NI Water, through the Pre- Development Enquiry process, to try and find a resolution to any issues at an early stage, to help facilitate development, where possible.\n\nNI Water has advised that within the current Price Control Period PC21 (2021/22 – 2026/27), it has a Storm Separation project to invest circa £32m to target the removal of approximately 22 hectares of impermeable area that discharges storm water into the foul/combined sewerage network.","answerHtml":"My Department encourages developers and wastewater management professionals to use Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS), to help remove surface water from the sewer network and free up capacity for wastewater. This can also reduce flooding and pollution risks.
In addition, I frequently ask developers and wastewater management professionals to engage early with NI Water, through the Pre- Development Enquiry process, to try and find a resolution to any issues at an early stage, to help facilitate development, where possible.
NI Water has advised that within the current Price Control Period PC21 (2021/22 – 2026/27), it has a Storm Separation project to invest circa £32m to target the removal of approximately 22 hectares of impermeable area that discharges storm water into the foul/combined sewerage network.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013274%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405354"}},{"id":"405353","reference":"AQW 13273/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-12","answerBy":"2024-06-27","answered":"2024-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans he has to update the 2019 traffic study of the road network surrounding the Riverside Retail Park, Coleraine, with a view to (i) assessing the impact of more recent changes to traffic flow in and out of the retail park; and (ii) being better placed to analysing the need for traffic lights at the Strand Road roundabout.","answerText":"The 2019 traffic study recorded the maximum delay experienced at the Strand Road Roundabout to be 5 minutes on the Castleroe Road with the majority of the other approaches experiencing delays of less than a minute. These finding are not considered to be excessive, nor unique, as most strategic traffic routes experience some congestion at peak times, particularly where the main road, which carries larger volumes of traffic, has priority over the lower trafficked minor roads. My officials consider that there has been no significant increase to these delays and have no immediate plans to undertake a new traffic study. However, the area will continue to be monitored.","answerHtml":"The 2019 traffic study recorded the maximum delay experienced at the Strand Road Roundabout to be 5 minutes on the Castleroe Road with the majority of the other approaches experiencing delays of less than a minute. These finding are not considered to be excessive, nor unique, as most strategic traffic routes experience some congestion at peak times, particularly where the main road, which carries larger volumes of traffic, has priority over the lower trafficked minor roads. My officials consider that there has been no significant increase to these delays and have no immediate plans to undertake a new traffic study. However, the area will continue to be monitored.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013273%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=405353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=405353"}},{"id":"404669","reference":"AQW 13037/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-06","answerBy":"2024-06-21","answered":"2024-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the work he will undertake with the Housing Executive to ensure children’s human rights are not being breached by current temporary housing policies, which can result in children (i) being denied access to education due to a lack of school transport; (ii) being placed in unsuitable, uninhabitable or communal housing; and (iii) experiencing a deterioration in their mental health due to these conditions.","answerText":"My officials are working with the Housing Executive to identify alternative and more sustainable options to respond to the growing and unprecedented demand for temporary accommodation.\n\nThe Chief Executive has established a Housing Solutions Task and Finish Group to address this issue and I have asked for regular updates on this work and the use of Temporary Accommodation.\n\nAs the discharge of the homelessness duty is an operational matter for the Housing Executive I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive is subject to Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act and the Human Rights Act in relation all its policies and functions. The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to addressing homelessness is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 which was subject to an equality screening process which can be found at: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/c674990a-3b42-450d-a7c3-337bdea94ccf/Homelessness-Strategy-Equality-Screening.pdf.\n\nThe decision regarding the suitability of temporary accommodation offered in the discharge of the homelessness duty is made in accordance with the Housing (NI) Order 1988. In determining suitability, Designated Officers within the Housing Executive will consider factors such as the individual circumstances and the needs of a given Applicant. The consideration of individual circumstances will include proximity to schools for families with children and the Housing Executive will seek to provide a placement as close as possible to facilities such as schools.\n\nIt should be noted that while the Housing Executive will endeavour to provide a placement that as far as possible, meets the needs of the respective household, any provision of temporary accommodation will be dictated by availability on a given day.”","answerHtml":"My officials are working with the Housing Executive to identify alternative and more sustainable options to respond to the growing and unprecedented demand for temporary accommodation.
The Chief Executive has established a Housing Solutions Task and Finish Group to address this issue and I have asked for regular updates on this work and the use of Temporary Accommodation.
As the discharge of the homelessness duty is an operational matter for the Housing Executive I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive is subject to Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act and the Human Rights Act in relation all its policies and functions. The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to addressing homelessness is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 which was subject to an equality screening process which can be found at: https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/c674990a-3b42-450d-a7c3-337bdea94ccf/Homelessness-Strategy-Equality-Screening.pdf.
The decision regarding the suitability of temporary accommodation offered in the discharge of the homelessness duty is made in accordance with the Housing (NI) Order 1988. In determining suitability, Designated Officers within the Housing Executive will consider factors such as the individual circumstances and the needs of a given Applicant. The consideration of individual circumstances will include proximity to schools for families with children and the Housing Executive will seek to provide a placement as close as possible to facilities such as schools.
It should be noted that while the Housing Executive will endeavour to provide a placement that as far as possible, meets the needs of the respective household, any provision of temporary accommodation will be dictated by availability on a given day.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013037%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404669"}},{"id":"404668","reference":"AQW 13036/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-06","answerBy":"2024-06-21","answered":"2024-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the collaborative work that (i) has been undertaken; and (ii) is planned with the (a) PSNI; (b) Public Prosecution Service; and (c) other elements of the justice system, to ensure a joined-up and consistent approach to the treatment of women and girls who have experienced domestic or sexual violence.","answerText":"Collaboration is a critical to the development of informed, effective and fit for purpose policies and practices. My Department collaborates closely with the PSNI, PPS and other Criminal Justice organisations (CJOs) on a range of matters at strategic, policy and service delivery levels to ensure that there is a joined-up and consistent approach to the treatment of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse, including women and girls.\n\nAt a strategic level this includes:\n\ncollaborative work with PSNI, PPS and other partners, to develop deliver the cross-Departmental 2016-23 Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy and associated annual action plans;\n\ncollaborative work with PSNI, PPS and other partners to develop a new seven-year Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and initial action plan, which I hope to publish soon, in partnership with the Minister of Health; and\n\nongoing collaborative work to implement the systemic reforms to the law and procedures in serious sexual offences that have been recommended by the Gillen Review.\n\nAt a policy level this includes:\n\nengagement and collaboration with a range of criminal justice and wider partners to inform the development of legislation to tackle domestic and sexual violence, including most recently the introduction of a new domestic abuse offence and new offences and measures to tackle voyeurism and stalking;\n\ncollaboration with PSNI to develop policy and guidance to support the delivery of the Domestic Violence and Abuse Disclosure Scheme (DVADS) which PSNI is responsible delivering. Following evaluation of the scheme, my Department and the PSNI collaborated to update guidance, to reflect learning and recommendations from the evaluation report. This included lowering the disclosure threshold from the risk of “serious harm” to “harm” and making changes to the process to make it more efficient, including reducing maximum timescales;\n\ncollaboration with PSNI to inform the development of regulations to support the delivery of Operation Encompass;\n\nongoing collaboration with a range of criminal justice and wider partners through the operation of Domestic Homicide Reviews, to examine cases where domestic abuse has resulted in death in order to help mitigate future risk by learning lessons and promoting best practice;\n\nongoing collaboration with criminal justice and wider partners to consider and scope options for Barnahus-informed services in Northern Ireland, to enhance and coordinate wrap-around services to child victims of serious sexual offences;\n\nongoing collaboration with PSNI and the Executive Office to inform the development of a PSNI-led campaign aimed at reducing unacceptable behaviour, sexual offending and gender-based violence;\n\nongoing collaboration with criminal justice and wider partners to develop arrangements to pilot the concept of Pre-Recorded Cross Examination in serious sexual offence cases involving children;\n\nongoing collaboration with criminal justice and wider partners on the operation of a voluntary, judge-led protocol to expedite serious sexual offence cases involving children under the age of 13;\n\nfurther collaborative work with criminal justice and wider partners to identify additional measures to address abusive behaviour is also underway; and\n\ncollaborative work with a range of criminal justice and wider partners is due to commence soon to develop new multi-agency arrangements to manage risk in relation to domestic abuse, informed by an independent review of the MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference) process.\n\nExamples of collaborative approaches to the development and delivery of services include:\n\ncollaboration with PSNI to establish an advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse which is currently delivered by ASSIST NI;\n\ncollaboration with criminal justice partners to develop and introduce Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) in Northern Ireland that help to support vulnerable victims to provide their best evidence to the court in a way that minimises trauma from the criminal justice process;\n\ncollaboration with PSNI and PPS to inform the establishment and ongoing monitoring of a pilot scheme to provide publicly funded Sexual Offences Legal Advisers (SOLAs) which is currently delivered by Victim Support NI;\n\nongoing collaboration with criminal justice partners, including the Judiciary to pilot a Domestic Abuse Contest Court (DACC) at the Belfast REC. There have now been three DACC days where victims and prosecution witnesses have been based at the Belfast REC, with nine cases completed resulting in convictions in all of them. Further DACCs are provisionally booked for September and November; and\n\nMy Department also provides funding to PBNI to support the delivery of behavioural change programmes designed to address abusive behaviour; prevent the escalation of abuse; and mitigate the risk posed to individuals.\n\nMy Department will continue to work collaboratively to develop and deliver effective responses to domestic and sexual violence and abuse.","answerHtml":"Collaboration is a critical to the development of informed, effective and fit for purpose policies and practices. My Department collaborates closely with the PSNI, PPS and other Criminal Justice organisations (CJOs) on a range of matters at strategic, policy and service delivery levels to ensure that there is a joined-up and consistent approach to the treatment of all victims of domestic and sexual abuse, including women and girls.
At a strategic level this includes:
collaborative work with PSNI, PPS and other partners, to develop deliver the cross-Departmental 2016-23 Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy and associated annual action plans;
collaborative work with PSNI, PPS and other partners to develop a new seven-year Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy and initial action plan, which I hope to publish soon, in partnership with the Minister of Health; and
ongoing collaborative work to implement the systemic reforms to the law and procedures in serious sexual offences that have been recommended by the Gillen Review.
At a policy level this includes:
engagement and collaboration with a range of criminal justice and wider partners to inform the development of legislation to tackle domestic and sexual violence, including most recently the introduction of a new domestic abuse offence and new offences and measures to tackle voyeurism and stalking;
collaboration with PSNI to develop policy and guidance to support the delivery of the Domestic Violence and Abuse Disclosure Scheme (DVADS) which PSNI is responsible delivering. Following evaluation of the scheme, my Department and the PSNI collaborated to update guidance, to reflect learning and recommendations from the evaluation report. This included lowering the disclosure threshold from the risk of “serious harm” to “harm” and making changes to the process to make it more efficient, including reducing maximum timescales;
collaboration with PSNI to inform the development of regulations to support the delivery of Operation Encompass;
ongoing collaboration with a range of criminal justice and wider partners through the operation of Domestic Homicide Reviews, to examine cases where domestic abuse has resulted in death in order to help mitigate future risk by learning lessons and promoting best practice;
ongoing collaboration with criminal justice and wider partners to consider and scope options for Barnahus-informed services in Northern Ireland, to enhance and coordinate wrap-around services to child victims of serious sexual offences;
ongoing collaboration with PSNI and the Executive Office to inform the development of a PSNI-led campaign aimed at reducing unacceptable behaviour, sexual offending and gender-based violence;
ongoing collaboration with criminal justice and wider partners to develop arrangements to pilot the concept of Pre-Recorded Cross Examination in serious sexual offence cases involving children;
ongoing collaboration with criminal justice and wider partners on the operation of a voluntary, judge-led protocol to expedite serious sexual offence cases involving children under the age of 13;
further collaborative work with criminal justice and wider partners to identify additional measures to address abusive behaviour is also underway; and
collaborative work with a range of criminal justice and wider partners is due to commence soon to develop new multi-agency arrangements to manage risk in relation to domestic abuse, informed by an independent review of the MARAC (Multi Agency Risk Assessment Conference) process.
Examples of collaborative approaches to the development and delivery of services include:
collaboration with PSNI to establish an advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse which is currently delivered by ASSIST NI;
collaboration with criminal justice partners to develop and introduce Remote Evidence Centres (RECs) in Northern Ireland that help to support vulnerable victims to provide their best evidence to the court in a way that minimises trauma from the criminal justice process;
collaboration with PSNI and PPS to inform the establishment and ongoing monitoring of a pilot scheme to provide publicly funded Sexual Offences Legal Advisers (SOLAs) which is currently delivered by Victim Support NI;
ongoing collaboration with criminal justice partners, including the Judiciary to pilot a Domestic Abuse Contest Court (DACC) at the Belfast REC. There have now been three DACC days where victims and prosecution witnesses have been based at the Belfast REC, with nine cases completed resulting in convictions in all of them. Further DACCs are provisionally booked for September and November; and
My Department also provides funding to PBNI to support the delivery of behavioural change programmes designed to address abusive behaviour; prevent the escalation of abuse; and mitigate the risk posed to individuals.
My Department will continue to work collaboratively to develop and deliver effective responses to domestic and sexual violence and abuse.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013036%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404668"}},{"id":"404504","reference":"AQW 12988/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-05","answerBy":"2024-06-20","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the discussions he has had with counterparts in the Republic of Ireland in relation to (i) the differing dog control laws between the two countries; and (ii) the action being taken to prevent dogs of breeds banned in Northern Ireland to enter this jurisdiction from the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"I have been in contact with the Minister for Rural and Community Development in the Republic of Ireland (ROI), Heather Humphries TD, in relation to the XL Bully legislation I am bringing forward. When in operation, the legislation will bring Northern Ireland (NI) into parity with the ROI in terms of the legal requirement for XL Bully type dogs to be on a lead and muzzled when in a public place.\n\nMinister Humphries has established a cross Governmental stakeholders working group to consider dog control, and in particular restricted breeds. My officials have ongoing engagement with counterparts in the Department of Rural and Community Development and expect to meet in the coming months as the group identifies its priority actions.\n\nAnyone travelling from the ROI into NI with their XL Bully type dog will be subject to the legal restrictions and safeguarding measures my Department is planning to introduce.","answerHtml":"I have been in contact with the Minister for Rural and Community Development in the Republic of Ireland (ROI), Heather Humphries TD, in relation to the XL Bully legislation I am bringing forward. When in operation, the legislation will bring Northern Ireland (NI) into parity with the ROI in terms of the legal requirement for XL Bully type dogs to be on a lead and muzzled when in a public place.
Minister Humphries has established a cross Governmental stakeholders working group to consider dog control, and in particular restricted breeds. My officials have ongoing engagement with counterparts in the Department of Rural and Community Development and expect to meet in the coming months as the group identifies its priority actions.
Anyone travelling from the ROI into NI with their XL Bully type dog will be subject to the legal restrictions and safeguarding measures my Department is planning to introduce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012988%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404504"}},{"id":"404503","reference":"AQW 12987/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-05","answerBy":"2024-06-20","answered":"2024-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the plans he has to work with the Department of Health to introduce improved information and support resources in schools to identify, inform and support those who may be suffering from, or may be vulnerable to developing, eating disorders.","answerText":"The Education Authority provides a range of services to support pupils needing help facing difficulties that are impacting on their ability to engage with education, including those with eating disorders. Supports are also available for pupils to access directly as part of the Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework, such as the Text-a-Nurse service.\n\nWhilst schools ensure the safety of pupils at school and raise concerns as necessary it is important that information and resources on eating disorders are informed by the Department of Health (DoH) and Public Health Agency.\n\nMy officials are working closely with DoH as it undertakes a review of the Healthy Child, Healthy Future Policy. A key element of the review is to take account of the social and emotional wellbeing of children including those vulnerable to eating disorders. The review document will provide guidance to School/Public Health Nurses in this respect as well as being a valuable resource available to schools. This provides the opportunity to enhance connections between education and health in supporting the needs of our children and young people through early intervention and prevention.\n\nFurther to this, the curriculum requires schools to provide learning opportunities for pupils in relation to physical and emotional health as part of personal development across the key stages of education and gives schools flexibility to cover different aspects of this learning area.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority provides a range of services to support pupils needing help facing difficulties that are impacting on their ability to engage with education, including those with eating disorders. Supports are also available for pupils to access directly as part of the Emotional Health and Wellbeing Framework, such as the Text-a-Nurse service.
Whilst schools ensure the safety of pupils at school and raise concerns as necessary it is important that information and resources on eating disorders are informed by the Department of Health (DoH) and Public Health Agency.
My officials are working closely with DoH as it undertakes a review of the Healthy Child, Healthy Future Policy. A key element of the review is to take account of the social and emotional wellbeing of children including those vulnerable to eating disorders. The review document will provide guidance to School/Public Health Nurses in this respect as well as being a valuable resource available to schools. This provides the opportunity to enhance connections between education and health in supporting the needs of our children and young people through early intervention and prevention.
Further to this, the curriculum requires schools to provide learning opportunities for pupils in relation to physical and emotional health as part of personal development across the key stages of education and gives schools flexibility to cover different aspects of this learning area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012987%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404503"}},{"id":"404502","reference":"AQW 12986/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-05","answerBy":"2024-06-20","answered":"2024-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any plans he has to improve adherence to the timely payment of child support; (ii) any cross-departmental work that will be required; and (iii) what plans he has to improve temporary financial support for those parents who are not paid child maintenance regularly or on time.","answerText":"As part of my department’s commitment to improve the Child Maintenance Service in helping to secure more child maintenance for qualifying children, and by extension improve adherence to the timely payment of child maintenance, my department recently secured Executive approval to add the Child Support Enforcement Bill to the Executive’s Legislative Programme.\n\nThis Bill makes provision for the introduction of administrative liability orders, which is intended to reduce the time it takes for the Child Maintenance Service to initiate its enforcement powers.\n\nOnce commenced by secondary legislation, the Bill’s provisions will allow the Child Maintenance Service to make an administrative liability order without requiring application to the Magistrates’ Court in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe existing court-based liability order process takes on average 22 weeks. It is estimated that the new administrative liability order process could be substantially shortened to 6 weeks.\n\nOfficials within my department are working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Justice, the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service and the Enforcement of Judgments Office on the Bill, all with a view to developing an appropriate secondary legislation package.\n\nMy department will continue to engage with officials in those other departments, taking a collaborative approach in developing the policy, legislation and operational delivery of new administrative processes aimed at ensuring parents adhere to their legal responsibility in supporting their children financially.\n\nMy department is unable to provide temporary financial assistance for unpaid child maintenance and there are no immediate plans to do so. However, parents who might find themselves under financial pressure, and depending on their personal circumstances, may be eligible for social security benefits.","answerHtml":"As part of my department’s commitment to improve the Child Maintenance Service in helping to secure more child maintenance for qualifying children, and by extension improve adherence to the timely payment of child maintenance, my department recently secured Executive approval to add the Child Support Enforcement Bill to the Executive’s Legislative Programme.
This Bill makes provision for the introduction of administrative liability orders, which is intended to reduce the time it takes for the Child Maintenance Service to initiate its enforcement powers.
Once commenced by secondary legislation, the Bill’s provisions will allow the Child Maintenance Service to make an administrative liability order without requiring application to the Magistrates’ Court in Northern Ireland.
The existing court-based liability order process takes on average 22 weeks. It is estimated that the new administrative liability order process could be substantially shortened to 6 weeks.
Officials within my department are working closely with the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Justice, the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service and the Enforcement of Judgments Office on the Bill, all with a view to developing an appropriate secondary legislation package.
My department will continue to engage with officials in those other departments, taking a collaborative approach in developing the policy, legislation and operational delivery of new administrative processes aimed at ensuring parents adhere to their legal responsibility in supporting their children financially.
My department is unable to provide temporary financial assistance for unpaid child maintenance and there are no immediate plans to do so. However, parents who might find themselves under financial pressure, and depending on their personal circumstances, may be eligible for social security benefits.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012986%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404502"}},{"id":"404501","reference":"AQW 12985/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-05","answerBy":"2024-06-20","answered":"2024-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how he will improve the process and time taken to assess and administer enteral nutrition tubes for children, particularly when they are requested by their parents.","answerText":"This is a specialist clinical procedure and each assessment must be personal to each child. Each assessment will therefore be patient specific.\n\nEach assessment is carried out by a multi-disciplinary team of clinical experts and they must ensure any decisions made are appropriate and safe for each child.\n\nWhere it is a deemed appropriate to then carry out this procedure the relevant child will be added to the waiting list for the procedure percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and this will be managed through normal processes.\n\nThere are just over 100 children currently on a waiting list for this procedure. This is a complex procedure for children requiring additional support and because of this is it is only done at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC) within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT).\n\nIt must be noted though that the views and inputs of parents and carers are crucial in any decision-making process and this will be considered along with the appropriateness and safety of each clinical decision.\n\nAs this is a specialist, clinical procedure we will be informed by clinical experts in this area on safe and appropriate improvements in this assessment.","answerHtml":"This is a specialist clinical procedure and each assessment must be personal to each child. Each assessment will therefore be patient specific.
Each assessment is carried out by a multi-disciplinary team of clinical experts and they must ensure any decisions made are appropriate and safe for each child.
Where it is a deemed appropriate to then carry out this procedure the relevant child will be added to the waiting list for the procedure percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) and this will be managed through normal processes.
There are just over 100 children currently on a waiting list for this procedure. This is a complex procedure for children requiring additional support and because of this is it is only done at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC) within the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust (BHSCT).
It must be noted though that the views and inputs of parents and carers are crucial in any decision-making process and this will be considered along with the appropriateness and safety of each clinical decision.
As this is a specialist, clinical procedure we will be informed by clinical experts in this area on safe and appropriate improvements in this assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012985%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404501","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404501"}},{"id":"404500","reference":"AQW 12984/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-05","answerBy":"2024-06-20","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current waiting lists; and (ii) the average waiting times for children awaiting speech and language therapy, broken down by constituency; and (iii) his proposals for reducing these.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012984%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404500"}},{"id":"404315","reference":"AQW 12920/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 11879/22-27, to detail the oversight his Department has, and invokes, in relation to local councils’ implementation of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.","answerText":"The implementation and enforcement of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, as it pertains to non-farmed animals, is the statutory responsibility of councils. Therefore, my Department does not oversee activity on the ground or direct how councils choose to meet these statutory obligations.\n\nAny concerns about the council delivered animal welfare service should be raised directly with the relevant organisation so that remedial action can be taken, if necessary.","answerHtml":"The implementation and enforcement of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, as it pertains to non-farmed animals, is the statutory responsibility of councils. Therefore, my Department does not oversee activity on the ground or direct how councils choose to meet these statutory obligations.
Any concerns about the council delivered animal welfare service should be raised directly with the relevant organisation so that remedial action can be taken, if necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012920%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404315"}},{"id":"404314","reference":"AQW 12919/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail his plans to review and implement changes to the remuneration policy for NHS dentists with a view to reducing them leaving health service dentistry provision; and (ii) for his assessment of the reduction in the number of dentists who provide such treatment.","answerText":"The need for dental reform has been acknowledged for a number of years, however, the pandemic, followed by the absence of an Executive has impacted progress in this area.\n\nMost recently, efforts have been focused on addressing the immediate access issues patients are experiencing and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices while reform is progressed. This has resulted in the £9.2 million additional investment for 2024/25, which was announced on 27 March 2024.\n\nThis investment includes £4.3m for a 30% enhancement to the fees associated with filings, extractions and root canal treatment which are some of the most frequently claimed fees and clinically beneficial treatments.\n\nI am conscious of the developments in the rest of the UK, with Scotland, England and Wales adopting diverging models of remuneration. Officials are liaising with their counterparts in each region to monitor the impact of these models and assess the suitability of adopting similar approaches in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn each of the last 5 years, the Department has followed the recommendations made by the Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration (DDRB) alongside an additional expenses element when calculating the annual uplift to the General Dental Services Statement of Remuneration. These uplifts mean that General Dental Practitioners are currently being paid 20.47% more per Item of Service than they were in 2019.\n\nIn addition to these uplifts, in 2022 a permanent 25% enhancement was put in place for fees related to dentures, to reflect significant increases in costs to dental practices.\n\nI am aware of the difficulties some patients are experiencing when trying to access General Dental Services, particularly for those who are not registered with a dentist.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, there were 363 dental practices with 1,163 dentists registered to carry out health service treatments at the end of March 2023. The number of dentists registered has increased by 13% over the last decade from 1,027 in 2013 to 1,163 in 2023. There was an increase of 1.5% in the number of dentists registered between 2022 and 2023 (17 dentists).\n\nBetween 2014 and 2023 there was an increase of 5.6% in the number of Health Service dentists per 100,000 population, with 60.4 dentists per 100,000 in Northern Ireland, compared to 42.3 in England.","answerHtml":"The need for dental reform has been acknowledged for a number of years, however, the pandemic, followed by the absence of an Executive has impacted progress in this area.
Most recently, efforts have been focused on addressing the immediate access issues patients are experiencing and establishing options to support the sustainability of dental practices while reform is progressed. This has resulted in the £9.2 million additional investment for 2024/25, which was announced on 27 March 2024.
This investment includes £4.3m for a 30% enhancement to the fees associated with filings, extractions and root canal treatment which are some of the most frequently claimed fees and clinically beneficial treatments.
I am conscious of the developments in the rest of the UK, with Scotland, England and Wales adopting diverging models of remuneration. Officials are liaising with their counterparts in each region to monitor the impact of these models and assess the suitability of adopting similar approaches in Northern Ireland.
In each of the last 5 years, the Department has followed the recommendations made by the Review Body on Doctors' and Dentists' Remuneration (DDRB) alongside an additional expenses element when calculating the annual uplift to the General Dental Services Statement of Remuneration. These uplifts mean that General Dental Practitioners are currently being paid 20.47% more per Item of Service than they were in 2019.
In addition to these uplifts, in 2022 a permanent 25% enhancement was put in place for fees related to dentures, to reflect significant increases in costs to dental practices.
I am aware of the difficulties some patients are experiencing when trying to access General Dental Services, particularly for those who are not registered with a dentist.
In Northern Ireland, there were 363 dental practices with 1,163 dentists registered to carry out health service treatments at the end of March 2023. The number of dentists registered has increased by 13% over the last decade from 1,027 in 2013 to 1,163 in 2023. There was an increase of 1.5% in the number of dentists registered between 2022 and 2023 (17 dentists).
Between 2014 and 2023 there was an increase of 5.6% in the number of Health Service dentists per 100,000 population, with 60.4 dentists per 100,000 in Northern Ireland, compared to 42.3 in England.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012919%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404314"}},{"id":"404313","reference":"AQW 12918/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail his plans to review and implement changes to the remuneration policy with community pharmacists with a view to ensuring their sustainability; and (ii) for his assessment of the concerns of community pharmacists about the future viability of the sector.","answerText":"At the outset, I can assure you that this Department acknowledges the very important work that community pharmacies and their teams deliver for our population.\n\nAgainst the backdrop of the current severe budgetary pressures and the multiple demands for additional funding across all parts of health and social care, additional investment continues to be provided to the community pharmacy sector.\n\nIn correspondence to all pharmacy contractors dated 25th April ’24, it was advised that my Department has committed to the following in 2024/25:\n\n£1m per quarter in respect of inflation pressures, which will be paid as a top-up to Global Sum fees\n\n£4m non-recurrent funding for the medicines adherence service pressures\n\nA commitment to increase the retained medicines margin of £26.5m to £31.5m, and a commitment to move towards new processes during 2024/2025.\n\nAs a result of the funding measures detailed above, the revised opening funding allocation for community pharmacy services for 24/25 in Northern Ireland is £147m. This is an increase of £19m and 14.8% over the opening position of April 2023.\n\n(ii)\n\nIn terms of the future viability of the community pharmacy sector, last month, the Department of Health published a new Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy which aims to fully realise the potential of community pharmacy services to support better health outcomes from medicines and prevent illness.\n\nThis important piece of work was developed collaboratively by the Department of Health and Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy owners, and describes the vision and strategic priorities for community pharmacy up to 2030.\n\nAdditional funding will be required to fully deliver this Strategic Plan up to 2030. I am very conscious that the Community Pharmacy sector – like all sectors across health and social care – is keen to see further investment.\n\nThe Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy is available on the Department of Health website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/community-pharmacy-strategic-plan-2030","answerHtml":"At the outset, I can assure you that this Department acknowledges the very important work that community pharmacies and their teams deliver for our population.
Against the backdrop of the current severe budgetary pressures and the multiple demands for additional funding across all parts of health and social care, additional investment continues to be provided to the community pharmacy sector.
In correspondence to all pharmacy contractors dated 25th April ’24, it was advised that my Department has committed to the following in 2024/25:
£1m per quarter in respect of inflation pressures, which will be paid as a top-up to Global Sum fees
£4m non-recurrent funding for the medicines adherence service pressures
A commitment to increase the retained medicines margin of £26.5m to £31.5m, and a commitment to move towards new processes during 2024/2025.
As a result of the funding measures detailed above, the revised opening funding allocation for community pharmacy services for 24/25 in Northern Ireland is £147m. This is an increase of £19m and 14.8% over the opening position of April 2023.
(ii)
In terms of the future viability of the community pharmacy sector, last month, the Department of Health published a new Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy which aims to fully realise the potential of community pharmacy services to support better health outcomes from medicines and prevent illness.
This important piece of work was developed collaboratively by the Department of Health and Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy owners, and describes the vision and strategic priorities for community pharmacy up to 2030.
Additional funding will be required to fully deliver this Strategic Plan up to 2030. I am very conscious that the Community Pharmacy sector – like all sectors across health and social care – is keen to see further investment.
The Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy is available on the Department of Health website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/community-pharmacy-strategic-plan-2030
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012918%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404313"}},{"id":"404312","reference":"AQW 12917/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on any available or planned schemes to encourage and support the use of renewable energy or energy efficiency when new houses are being built; and (ii) for his assessment of such schemes in the rest of the UK and Ireland and how Northern Ireland could benefit from this.","answerText":"The Department of Finance lead Building regulations in the North of Ireland which is the primary policy area overseeing energy performance in new buildings. The Executive’s Energy Strategy contains a phased plan to introduce uplifts to these regulations which will improve minimum standards with respect to carbon emissions and energy efficiency when building work is being carried out.\n\nAt present, the Department for the Economy has no intention of incentivising renewable energy in new buildings as it expects the adoption of renewable energies to be driven through the 2022 Building Regulation change, with future uplifts expected to be more stringent. Incentivising adoption of renewable technology or energy efficiency improvements is extremely challenging where regulation exists in this way due to government guidance on Additionality and the need to assess the additional impacts of financial interventions.","answerHtml":"The Department of Finance lead Building regulations in the North of Ireland which is the primary policy area overseeing energy performance in new buildings. The Executive’s Energy Strategy contains a phased plan to introduce uplifts to these regulations which will improve minimum standards with respect to carbon emissions and energy efficiency when building work is being carried out.
At present, the Department for the Economy has no intention of incentivising renewable energy in new buildings as it expects the adoption of renewable energies to be driven through the 2022 Building Regulation change, with future uplifts expected to be more stringent. Incentivising adoption of renewable technology or energy efficiency improvements is extremely challenging where regulation exists in this way due to government guidance on Additionality and the need to assess the additional impacts of financial interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012917%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404312"}},{"id":"404311","reference":"AQW 12916/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-04","answerBy":"2024-06-19","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the steps he is taking to ensure adequate numbers of school support staff, including recruitment and funding, especially those involved in working with children with special educational needs.","answerText":"Responsibility for the management of staffing matters, including recruitment, is delegated to the Board of Governors of individual schools. However, the Education Authority’s (EA) Resourcing Service provides support in this area through the provision of training, tools, guidance and administrative support.\n\nWe are aware that it has become increasingly challenging to recruit school support staff, particularly Classroom Assistants and those working with children with special educational needs. Therefore, through its HR Transformation Programme, the EA has been working to optimise and improve the recruitment service provided to schools.\n\nThe EA is also seeking to progress several strategically important projects targeted at resolving challenges with the pay, grading and the employment model for school support staff. This includes the proposed Pay and Grading Review for support staff and the joint working group with non-teaching trade unions to develop solutions to the challenges associated with the Classroom Assistant recruitment and employment model.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for the management of staffing matters, including recruitment, is delegated to the Board of Governors of individual schools. However, the Education Authority’s (EA) Resourcing Service provides support in this area through the provision of training, tools, guidance and administrative support.
We are aware that it has become increasingly challenging to recruit school support staff, particularly Classroom Assistants and those working with children with special educational needs. Therefore, through its HR Transformation Programme, the EA has been working to optimise and improve the recruitment service provided to schools.
The EA is also seeking to progress several strategically important projects targeted at resolving challenges with the pay, grading and the employment model for school support staff. This includes the proposed Pay and Grading Review for support staff and the joint working group with non-teaching trade unions to develop solutions to the challenges associated with the Classroom Assistant recruitment and employment model.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012916%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404311"}},{"id":"404053","reference":"AQW 12849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-03","answerBy":"2024-06-18","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to review his Department’s contract with GPs in order to facilitate an easier and simpler method for people to contact their doctor.","answerText":"I recognise that being able to access GP practices when we need to do so is important for all of us.\n\nGPs are independent contractors who contract with the Department to provide primary care services. As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. Decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.\n\nThe GP Access Working Group is overseeing work to develop guidance for practices in the management of patient demand and optimising workflow within practices to maximise efficiency and improve experience for patients. The Group is also considering how technology can help to deliver improvements to the process for accessing services for patients and practices alike.\n\nUnder the GMS contract a GP contractor is obliged to deliver services required for the management of patients in the manner determined by the practice in discussion with the patient. The Practice is required to deliver these services within core hours 8am to 6.30, Monday to Friday except Bank Holidays.\n\nAs part of the recent negotiations on the GMS contract for 2024/25, my department has developed an NI Contract Assurance Framework (NICAF). The NICAF consists of 6 domains, including one for Access, with a range of indicators in each domain. The intention is that, over time, these domains will develop to provide enhanced assurance over the quality of service being delivered across each domain.","answerHtml":"I recognise that being able to access GP practices when we need to do so is important for all of us.
GPs are independent contractors who contract with the Department to provide primary care services. As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. Decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.
The GP Access Working Group is overseeing work to develop guidance for practices in the management of patient demand and optimising workflow within practices to maximise efficiency and improve experience for patients. The Group is also considering how technology can help to deliver improvements to the process for accessing services for patients and practices alike.
Under the GMS contract a GP contractor is obliged to deliver services required for the management of patients in the manner determined by the practice in discussion with the patient. The Practice is required to deliver these services within core hours 8am to 6.30, Monday to Friday except Bank Holidays.
As part of the recent negotiations on the GMS contract for 2024/25, my department has developed an NI Contract Assurance Framework (NICAF). The NICAF consists of 6 domains, including one for Access, with a range of indicators in each domain. The intention is that, over time, these domains will develop to provide enhanced assurance over the quality of service being delivered across each domain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404053","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404053"}},{"id":"404052","reference":"AQW 12848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-03","answerBy":"2024-06-18","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the steps he is taking to ensure prices that farmers receive for their produce ensures their sustainability.","answerText":"Farm prices are determined by the market and therefore outside the control of Government. My Department does provide considerable advice to farm businesses on matters of economic and environmental sustainability. The Department makes around £300m annually in direct payments which form a very significant proportion of farm income and play an important role in business sustainability.","answerHtml":"Farm prices are determined by the market and therefore outside the control of Government. My Department does provide considerable advice to farm businesses on matters of economic and environmental sustainability. The Department makes around £300m annually in direct payments which form a very significant proportion of farm income and play an important role in business sustainability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404052"}},{"id":"404051","reference":"AQW 12847/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-03","answerBy":"2024-06-18","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of how farmers are currently being financially supported by government, in comparison to previous EU funding sources; (ii) to detail the issues this is creating for farmers; and (iii) to detail the steps he is taking to mitigate the impact on farmers of rising costs of feed, fertiliser, energy, and other costs associated with agriculture.","answerText":"EU funding for farmers and land managers in Northern Ireland has been maintained by the UK Government in cash terms since 2020 and will continue until the end of the 2024-25 financial year.\n\nMy officials are bringing forward a balanced and comprehensive Farm Support and Development Programme in codesign with stakeholder organisations. There are options for every farm business under this new Programme regardless of size or scale of activity, but it requires them to change their behaviour and deliver better outcomes.\n\nIn 2023 direct payments continued to be paid earlier than normal and with a 2.32% increase to the Basic Payment component. My Department continues to bring forward new policies and programmes designed to help farm businesses improve productivity, resilience and environmental sustainability. CAFRE also continues to offer relevant training and support.","answerHtml":"EU funding for farmers and land managers in Northern Ireland has been maintained by the UK Government in cash terms since 2020 and will continue until the end of the 2024-25 financial year.
My officials are bringing forward a balanced and comprehensive Farm Support and Development Programme in codesign with stakeholder organisations. There are options for every farm business under this new Programme regardless of size or scale of activity, but it requires them to change their behaviour and deliver better outcomes.
In 2023 direct payments continued to be paid earlier than normal and with a 2.32% increase to the Basic Payment component. My Department continues to bring forward new policies and programmes designed to help farm businesses improve productivity, resilience and environmental sustainability. CAFRE also continues to offer relevant training and support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012847%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404051"}},{"id":"404050","reference":"AQW 12846/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-03","answerBy":"2024-06-18","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any work he is carrying out, or planning to carry out, with the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to address suicide in rural communities.","answerText":"Certain factors have been identified as creating risk and stress to people living in rural areas over and above the risk factors for suicide affecting general populations. These include isolation, barriers to accessing services, a more conservative approach to help-seeking, heightened stigma associated with mental health issues, LGBT populations, availability of some means of suicide (firearm ownership, pesticides), and higher risk occupational groups such as farmers and veterinarians.\n\nRural Support provides support through a helpline which offers a listening and signposting service for farmers and rural families. Issues addressed include financial and debt problems; inheritance issues; physical and mental health concerns; farming paperwork and bureaucracy.\n\nPublic Health Agency (PHA) has funded Rural Support in delivering a range of services to help promote positive mental health among isolated rural dwellers, farmers and farm families across the region. These include:\n\nConducting information sessions to promote positive mental health, encourage farmers and rural dwellers to seek help and link with other support services\n\nTraining for Rural Support staff and volunteers\n\nMentors provide one-to-one support to individuals experiencing financial distress and, where appropriate, signpost to other services..\n\nPHA has worked in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to develop and co-fund the Farm Families Health Check Programme. This consists of a mobile unit which is available at local livestock markets and additional community events to offer on-the-spot health checks consisting of diabetic and heart attack risk assessments, BMI checks and offers support around mental health. In addition, individual lifestyle advice is given on a range of health issues, and onward referral completed to local support services as required.","answerHtml":"Certain factors have been identified as creating risk and stress to people living in rural areas over and above the risk factors for suicide affecting general populations. These include isolation, barriers to accessing services, a more conservative approach to help-seeking, heightened stigma associated with mental health issues, LGBT populations, availability of some means of suicide (firearm ownership, pesticides), and higher risk occupational groups such as farmers and veterinarians.
Rural Support provides support through a helpline which offers a listening and signposting service for farmers and rural families. Issues addressed include financial and debt problems; inheritance issues; physical and mental health concerns; farming paperwork and bureaucracy.
Public Health Agency (PHA) has funded Rural Support in delivering a range of services to help promote positive mental health among isolated rural dwellers, farmers and farm families across the region. These include:
Conducting information sessions to promote positive mental health, encourage farmers and rural dwellers to seek help and link with other support services
Training for Rural Support staff and volunteers
Mentors provide one-to-one support to individuals experiencing financial distress and, where appropriate, signpost to other services..
PHA has worked in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to develop and co-fund the Farm Families Health Check Programme. This consists of a mobile unit which is available at local livestock markets and additional community events to offer on-the-spot health checks consisting of diabetic and heart attack risk assessments, BMI checks and offers support around mental health. In addition, individual lifestyle advice is given on a range of health issues, and onward referral completed to local support services as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012846%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404050"}},{"id":"404049","reference":"AQW 12845/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-06-03","answerBy":"2024-06-18","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail how he will improve addiction services available to people in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Department of Health leads on the Northern Ireland Executive's 10-year Substance Use Strategy ‘Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery’ a key priority of this strategy is to prevent and reduce the harm related to alcohol and other drugs through a range of cross-departmental actions and support.\n\nIn order to deliver the vision and outcomes of this Strategy officials within the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG), Department of Health, have worked with the Public Health Agency and a range of stakeholders, to co-produce a new Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan 2024-2028. This Plan has been subject to public consultation and will replace the current Alcohol & Drug Services Commissioning Framework. The Plan identifies clear strategic priority areas for improving services across the Region, for those impacted by substance use issues including families and carers. The Plan is due to be published in June 2024 and implementation of agreed priority actions will follow subject to funding.\n\nAlongside the development of the Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan, a number of other related priority areas of work are being progressed, these include;\n\nPopulation Based Needs Assessment relating to Substance Use in the Western Health & Social Care Trust Area, and,\n\nIndependent Review of Tier 4 Substance Use Services which includes, In-patient Tier 4 Detoxification & Residential Rehabilitation Services across Northern Ireland.\n\nIt is the intention that the recommendations from these areas of work along with the Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan, will support service improvement across the Region and help to inform and prioritise, future funding decisions relating to substance use. This work will be in alignment with the new Regional Mental Health Service, and Integrated Care System.\n\nIn addition, SPPG officials have been involved in supporting a collaborative proposal to the PEACEPLUS Programme to secure funding to deliver a Community Detoxification Project for those living in our border communities. It is anticipated that if successful, this project will build on and add value to existing services in the Western and Southern Health Trust areas.\n\nThe breadth of the work already completed as outlined is a clear indication of the Department of Health’s commitment to implementing the vision of the Substance Use Strategy.\n\nThe full delivery of the Strategy will be dependent on additional funding being made available going forward.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health leads on the Northern Ireland Executive's 10-year Substance Use Strategy ‘Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery’ a key priority of this strategy is to prevent and reduce the harm related to alcohol and other drugs through a range of cross-departmental actions and support.
In order to deliver the vision and outcomes of this Strategy officials within the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG), Department of Health, have worked with the Public Health Agency and a range of stakeholders, to co-produce a new Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan 2024-2028. This Plan has been subject to public consultation and will replace the current Alcohol & Drug Services Commissioning Framework. The Plan identifies clear strategic priority areas for improving services across the Region, for those impacted by substance use issues including families and carers. The Plan is due to be published in June 2024 and implementation of agreed priority actions will follow subject to funding.
Alongside the development of the Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan, a number of other related priority areas of work are being progressed, these include;
Population Based Needs Assessment relating to Substance Use in the Western Health & Social Care Trust Area, and,
Independent Review of Tier 4 Substance Use Services which includes, In-patient Tier 4 Detoxification & Residential Rehabilitation Services across Northern Ireland.
It is the intention that the recommendations from these areas of work along with the Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan, will support service improvement across the Region and help to inform and prioritise, future funding decisions relating to substance use. This work will be in alignment with the new Regional Mental Health Service, and Integrated Care System.
In addition, SPPG officials have been involved in supporting a collaborative proposal to the PEACEPLUS Programme to secure funding to deliver a Community Detoxification Project for those living in our border communities. It is anticipated that if successful, this project will build on and add value to existing services in the Western and Southern Health Trust areas.
The breadth of the work already completed as outlined is a clear indication of the Department of Health’s commitment to implementing the vision of the Substance Use Strategy.
The full delivery of the Strategy will be dependent on additional funding being made available going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012845%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404049"}},{"id":"403851","reference":"AQW 12796/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-31","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the size of the waiting list; and (ii) the average wait, for government-funded IVF sessions.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012796%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403851"}},{"id":"403850","reference":"AQW 12795/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-31","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail his plans to ensure the sustainability of community transport services, especially in the north coast area.","answerText":"I recognise and value the contribution of all organisations that provide community transport services across the North, and the impact that they have on some of the most vulnerable groups in society.\n\nI have made the decision to provide funding to community transport for 2024/25 at the total levels awarded for 2023/24. This is subject to the planned Equality Impact Assessment consultation on the budget and so this allocation is indicative at this stage. I do, however, expect to be able to confirm opening budget allocations, once I have taken final decisions following consideration of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment after an initial four-week period.\n\nI am currently considering an evaluation report on the Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme and Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) and will ensure the sustainability of community transport services is integral to the action plan for the next phase of the community transport review.\n\nMy Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.","answerHtml":"I recognise and value the contribution of all organisations that provide community transport services across the North, and the impact that they have on some of the most vulnerable groups in society.
I have made the decision to provide funding to community transport for 2024/25 at the total levels awarded for 2023/24. This is subject to the planned Equality Impact Assessment consultation on the budget and so this allocation is indicative at this stage. I do, however, expect to be able to confirm opening budget allocations, once I have taken final decisions following consideration of responses to the Equality Impact Assessment after an initial four-week period.
I am currently considering an evaluation report on the Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme and Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) and will ensure the sustainability of community transport services is integral to the action plan for the next phase of the community transport review.
My Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012795%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403850"}},{"id":"403849","reference":"AQW 12794/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-31","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":"2024-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the actions he is taking to ensure the provision of the newest and most effective drugs to treat dementia.","answerText":"My Department has a formal link with NICE under which its technology appraisals for medicines are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here. Where found to be applicable they are endorsed by my Department for implementation within the Health and Social Care system. Actions to ensure the provision of new drugs will be taken forward at that time, however my Department’s initial assessment is that the deployment of novel therapeutic agents for dementia will require significant additional resources to redesign clinical pathways, increase regional imaging capacity and develop the service infrastructure needed to ensure the timely and equitable rollout of these agents, should they be endorsed for implementation in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn circumstances where NICE has not yet fully appraised, or does not recommend a particular drug, it is not routinely commissioned for use in Northern Ireland. However, the Individual Funding Request process provides a mechanism to consider requests from clinical consultants for treatments for individual patients that fall outside the range of services routinely commissioned.","answerHtml":"My Department has a formal link with NICE under which its technology appraisals for medicines are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here. Where found to be applicable they are endorsed by my Department for implementation within the Health and Social Care system. Actions to ensure the provision of new drugs will be taken forward at that time, however my Department’s initial assessment is that the deployment of novel therapeutic agents for dementia will require significant additional resources to redesign clinical pathways, increase regional imaging capacity and develop the service infrastructure needed to ensure the timely and equitable rollout of these agents, should they be endorsed for implementation in Northern Ireland.
In circumstances where NICE has not yet fully appraised, or does not recommend a particular drug, it is not routinely commissioned for use in Northern Ireland. However, the Individual Funding Request process provides a mechanism to consider requests from clinical consultants for treatments for individual patients that fall outside the range of services routinely commissioned.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012794%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403849"}},{"id":"403848","reference":"AQW 12793/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-31","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will increase cancer screening for women.","answerText":"Currently in Northern Ireland, we have three screening programmes aimed at reducing cancer mortality in asymptomatic individuals. These are the breast screening, bowel screening and cervical screening programmes.\n\nInvitations for screening are sent to anyone registered with a GP in Northern Ireland and who meets the eligible criteria for that particular programme.\n\nThe screening programmes provide accessible, accurate and evidence-based information to individuals to ensure they understand:\n\nthe condition being screened for;\n\nthe testing process;\n\nthe risks, limitations, benefits, and uncertainties connected to the screening process.\n\nIt is up to individuals whether to accept or decline the invitation, based on their personal informed choice.\n\nTo promote the importance of accepting an invitation to breast, bowel and cervical screening, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Department supported the “Community Pharmacy Living Well,” campaign which ran in over 500 community pharmacies in April and May, this year. Details of the programme can be found via: Living Well - Business Services Organisation (BSO) Website (hscni.net)\n\nIn addition, PHA continues to commission the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA) to promote informed choice in cervical cancer screening via its peer led community-based programme. The programme targets groups where rates of participation in screening are likely to be lower, including those impacted by health inequalities and living in deprived areas.\n\nAs with all screening programmes, anyone who is concerned about, or is experiencing, any unusual symptoms should seek advice from their GP rather than wait on their next screening test or screening test results.","answerHtml":"Currently in Northern Ireland, we have three screening programmes aimed at reducing cancer mortality in asymptomatic individuals. These are the breast screening, bowel screening and cervical screening programmes.
Invitations for screening are sent to anyone registered with a GP in Northern Ireland and who meets the eligible criteria for that particular programme.
The screening programmes provide accessible, accurate and evidence-based information to individuals to ensure they understand:
the condition being screened for;
the testing process;
the risks, limitations, benefits, and uncertainties connected to the screening process.
It is up to individuals whether to accept or decline the invitation, based on their personal informed choice.
To promote the importance of accepting an invitation to breast, bowel and cervical screening, the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Department supported the “Community Pharmacy Living Well,” campaign which ran in over 500 community pharmacies in April and May, this year. Details of the programme can be found via: Living Well - Business Services Organisation (BSO) Website (hscni.net)
In addition, PHA continues to commission the Women’s Resource and Development Agency (WRDA) to promote informed choice in cervical cancer screening via its peer led community-based programme. The programme targets groups where rates of participation in screening are likely to be lower, including those impacted by health inequalities and living in deprived areas.
As with all screening programmes, anyone who is concerned about, or is experiencing, any unusual symptoms should seek advice from their GP rather than wait on their next screening test or screening test results.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012793%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403848","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403848"}},{"id":"403847","reference":"AQW 12792/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-31","answerBy":"2024-06-17","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans he has to strengthen employment laws in relation to women going through the menopause.","answerText":"Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause. Whilst the menopause is not by itself a specific protected characteristic under equality legislation, if an employee or worker is disadvantaged or treated less favourably because of their menopause symptoms, this could be discrimination if related to a protected characteristic such as age, gender or disability.\n\nGood employers have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I intend to strengthen the rights to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill.\n\nIn June 2023, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace policies. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause.","answerHtml":"Women going through the menopause can experience challenges within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause. Whilst the menopause is not by itself a specific protected characteristic under equality legislation, if an employee or worker is disadvantaged or treated less favourably because of their menopause symptoms, this could be discrimination if related to a protected characteristic such as age, gender or disability.
Good employers have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I intend to strengthen the rights to request flexible working though a future Employment Rights Bill.
In June 2023, the Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions published a guide entitled Promoting Equality in Employment for Women Affected by Menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace policies. I would encourage all employers to offer enhanced flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff experiencing symptoms of menopause.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012792%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403847","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403847"}},{"id":"403639","reference":"AQW 12718/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-30","answerBy":"2024-06-14","answered":"2024-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the percentage of households currently registered as homeless who have cited domestic violence as an issue on their housing application, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The table below details homelessness acceptances during 2023/24 where the acceptance reason was domestic abuse. The table also details the overall number of acceptances and the percentage of acceptances due to domestic abuse as a percentage of overall acceptances.\n\nCouncil Area\tHomelessness Acceptances due to domestic abuse\tTotal Homelessness Acceptances\tDomestic abuse acceptances as a percentage of all acceptances\nAntrim & Newtownabbey\t130\t1013\t12.8%\nArds & North Down\t115\t1012\t11.4%\nArmagh, Banbridge & Craigavon\t85\t749\t11.3%\nBelfast\t219\t3226\t6.8%\nCauseway Coast & Glens\t109\t842\t12.9%\nDerry & Strabane\t134\t1352\t9.6%\nFermanagh & Omagh\t49\t501\t9.8%\nLisburn & Castlereagh\t46\t615\t7.5%\nMid & East Antrim\t141\t920\t15.3%\nMid Ulster\t64\t505\t12.7%\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t54\t802\t6.7%\nGrand Total\t1146\t11537\t9.9%”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The table below details homelessness acceptances during 2023/24 where the acceptance reason was domestic abuse. The table also details the overall number of acceptances and the percentage of acceptances due to domestic abuse as a percentage of overall acceptances.
| Council Area | Homelessness Acceptances due to domestic abuse | Total Homelessness Acceptances | Domestic abuse acceptances as a percentage of all acceptances |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey | 130 | 1013 | 12.8% |
| Ards & North Down | 115 | 1012 | 11.4% |
| Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon | 85 | 749 | 11.3% |
| Belfast | 219 | 3226 | 6.8% |
| Causeway Coast & Glens | 109 | 842 | 12.9% |
| Derry & Strabane | 134 | 1352 | 9.6% |
| Fermanagh & Omagh | 49 | 501 | 9.8% |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | 46 | 615 | 7.5% |
| Mid & East Antrim | 141 | 920 | 15.3% |
| Mid Ulster | 64 | 505 | 12.7% |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | 54 | 802 | 6.7% |
| Grand Total | 1146 | 11537 | 9.9%” |
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012718%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403639","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403639"}},{"id":"403638","reference":"AQW 12717/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-30","answerBy":"2024-06-14","answered":"2024-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to update guidelines in relation to how victims of domestic violence are treated in hospitals and other health and care settings.","answerText":"While no specific guidelines exist, there is considerable evidence of focused support based on operating protocols and training programmes.\n\nThese include:\n\nSouthern Trust\n\nSHSCT staff attend safeguarding training (adult and child safeguarding) at a level relevant to their job role. This includes recognising and responding to victims of domestic and sexual abuse within all settings, including acute, and to make appropriate onward referrals for support as applicable.\n\nSouthern Trust, in collaboration with Women’s Aid, established a DASS (Domestic Abuse Safety and Support Advisor) Worker role within the Acute setting, with a dedicated focus of engaging with victims of Domestic Abuse.\n\nTo provide immediate support and advice to victims of domestic abuse within hospital\n\nTo link individuals and families to longer-term community-based support\n\nTo provide hospital staff with expert training so that they have the confidence to ask about domestic abuse establishing clear referral routes\n\nTo create and develop immediate safety plans for the individual and an onward MARAC referral if required\n\nThis service has provided timely support and advice to victims of domestic abuse across both acute hospitals, Craigavon Area Hospital and Daisy Hill Hospital. This has facilitated an improved response time in providing victims with support.\n\nSouth Eastern Trust\n\nSET Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Partnership has developed training and awareness raising resources which have been shared both internally and externally to the Trust\n\nTrust midwives routine inquire pre and post pregnancy in recognition that domestic abuse can often start and escalate in pregnancy. Radiologists within the hospital departments have also been trained to implement targeted enquiry if they are concerned regarding a patient’s presentation\n\nThe Partnership is actively exploring with the patient navigators based in the Ulster Hospital ways to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse when they present at the Emergency Department.\n\nNorthern Trust\n\nTrust staff work within current Safeguarding Board NI Policies and Procedures designed to identify, treat and manage victims of Domestic Violence. Trust policies direct staff on how to respond to a disclosure and actions to take, including indirect/direct questions, onward referral, safety planning with victims, and contact numbers for support and consideration of UNOCINI (Understanding the Needs of Children in Northern Ireland) and/or MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) referral.Trust staff, in hospital and community settings, have access to level 1 safeguarding awareness raising training as part of their corporate induction. Further level 2 and level 3 Domestic Abuse training is available for staff depending on their requirements for job role. Staff responding to a disclosure of domestic abuse have also been trained in completion of UNOCINI, DASH/RIC (Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Harassment/Risk Identification Checklist) and MARAC, if required. There is also a Safeguarding Children’s Nurse Specialist (SCNS) team available to support staff when dealing with a victim of domestic abuse and ensuring that the victim receives the highest possible support and help. Routine and/or selective enquiry are commonly used as a way of identifying Domestic abuse victims. Staff are trained on the use of these tools and how to make an onward referral to MARAC if required. Regional work is ongoing to review and update this policy. Victims of domestic abuse are given a list of support contacts, e.g. Woman's Aid and Victim Support, and there is extensive multi-agency work ongoing across the Trust locality to support victims. Antrim Area Hospital and Causeway Hospital Emergency Departments currently piloting scheme to provide support and information on domestic abuse, including details of the Domestic Abuse Helpline. Plans are in place to roll this out to other areas in the hospital. Lip salves and tissues are given to all areas in the hospital with the Helpline number on them.\n\nBelfast Trust\n\nThe Belfast HSC Trust was unable to provide input in response to the AQW.\n\nWestern Trust\n\nThe Western HSC Trust was unable to provide input in response to the AQW.","answerHtml":"While no specific guidelines exist, there is considerable evidence of focused support based on operating protocols and training programmes.
These include:
Southern Trust
SHSCT staff attend safeguarding training (adult and child safeguarding) at a level relevant to their job role. This includes recognising and responding to victims of domestic and sexual abuse within all settings, including acute, and to make appropriate onward referrals for support as applicable.
Southern Trust, in collaboration with Women’s Aid, established a DASS (Domestic Abuse Safety and Support Advisor) Worker role within the Acute setting, with a dedicated focus of engaging with victims of Domestic Abuse.
To provide immediate support and advice to victims of domestic abuse within hospital
To link individuals and families to longer-term community-based support
To provide hospital staff with expert training so that they have the confidence to ask about domestic abuse establishing clear referral routes
To create and develop immediate safety plans for the individual and an onward MARAC referral if required
This service has provided timely support and advice to victims of domestic abuse across both acute hospitals, Craigavon Area Hospital and Daisy Hill Hospital. This has facilitated an improved response time in providing victims with support.
South Eastern Trust
SET Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Partnership has developed training and awareness raising resources which have been shared both internally and externally to the Trust
Trust midwives routine inquire pre and post pregnancy in recognition that domestic abuse can often start and escalate in pregnancy. Radiologists within the hospital departments have also been trained to implement targeted enquiry if they are concerned regarding a patient’s presentation
The Partnership is actively exploring with the patient navigators based in the Ulster Hospital ways to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse when they present at the Emergency Department.
Northern Trust
Trust staff work within current Safeguarding Board NI Policies and Procedures designed to identify, treat and manage victims of Domestic Violence. Trust policies direct staff on how to respond to a disclosure and actions to take, including indirect/direct questions, onward referral, safety planning with victims, and contact numbers for support and consideration of UNOCINI (Understanding the Needs of Children in Northern Ireland) and/or MARAC (Multi-Agency Risk Assessment Conference) referral.Trust staff, in hospital and community settings, have access to level 1 safeguarding awareness raising training as part of their corporate induction. Further level 2 and level 3 Domestic Abuse training is available for staff depending on their requirements for job role. Staff responding to a disclosure of domestic abuse have also been trained in completion of UNOCINI, DASH/RIC (Domestic Abuse, Stalking and Harassment/Risk Identification Checklist) and MARAC, if required. There is also a Safeguarding Children’s Nurse Specialist (SCNS) team available to support staff when dealing with a victim of domestic abuse and ensuring that the victim receives the highest possible support and help. Routine and/or selective enquiry are commonly used as a way of identifying Domestic abuse victims. Staff are trained on the use of these tools and how to make an onward referral to MARAC if required. Regional work is ongoing to review and update this policy. Victims of domestic abuse are given a list of support contacts, e.g. Woman's Aid and Victim Support, and there is extensive multi-agency work ongoing across the Trust locality to support victims. Antrim Area Hospital and Causeway Hospital Emergency Departments currently piloting scheme to provide support and information on domestic abuse, including details of the Domestic Abuse Helpline. Plans are in place to roll this out to other areas in the hospital. Lip salves and tissues are given to all areas in the hospital with the Helpline number on them.
Belfast Trust
The Belfast HSC Trust was unable to provide input in response to the AQW.
Western Trust
The Western HSC Trust was unable to provide input in response to the AQW.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012717%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403638","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403638"}},{"id":"403637","reference":"AQW 12716/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-30","answerBy":"2024-06-14","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the emotional support provided to children who are impacted by domestic violence and have been identified by police as part of Operation Encompass, including (i) who is providing this support; (ii) how support is provided; (iii) the success of the outcomes; and (iv) the sustainability of this programme.","answerText":"The support provided through Operation Encompass to children impacted by domestic violence is incredibly important. In the first full year of operation (May 2023 to May 2024) over 18,000 individual notifications have been made to schools and colleges.\n\nSupport is provided by a range of sources, with multi-agency working a key feature. Notifications to schools are handled by a school’s safeguarding team, co-ordinated by the Designated Teacher. Any incident of domestic abuse, which has resulted in a notification, is referred to Social Services by police. Ongoing support is provided for the family by Social Services if required. Further assistance is available for schools from the Education Authority Child Protection Support Service (EA CPSS).\n\nTo provide tailored care for the child/children, limited information can be shared by the Designated Teacher/Safeguarding Team with the class teacher. Wider oversight is maintained by the Designated Teacher and Safeguarding Team. In all cases, schools will work with the PSNI and Social Services, as appropriate, to address any potential risks.\n\nA survey of Designated Teachers on their experience of Operation Encompass has confirmed that the initiative has been positively received by schools.\n\nThe introduction of Operation Encompass has had resource implications for the EA CPSS. To date, funding has been available from the Department of Justice (DoJ) under the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, 2016-2023 Strategy. My officials are continuing to engage with the DoJ to secure funding under the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse 2023-2030 strategy. Options are also being explored regarding the use of technologies to streamline delivery.","answerHtml":"The support provided through Operation Encompass to children impacted by domestic violence is incredibly important. In the first full year of operation (May 2023 to May 2024) over 18,000 individual notifications have been made to schools and colleges.
Support is provided by a range of sources, with multi-agency working a key feature. Notifications to schools are handled by a school’s safeguarding team, co-ordinated by the Designated Teacher. Any incident of domestic abuse, which has resulted in a notification, is referred to Social Services by police. Ongoing support is provided for the family by Social Services if required. Further assistance is available for schools from the Education Authority Child Protection Support Service (EA CPSS).
To provide tailored care for the child/children, limited information can be shared by the Designated Teacher/Safeguarding Team with the class teacher. Wider oversight is maintained by the Designated Teacher and Safeguarding Team. In all cases, schools will work with the PSNI and Social Services, as appropriate, to address any potential risks.
A survey of Designated Teachers on their experience of Operation Encompass has confirmed that the initiative has been positively received by schools.
The introduction of Operation Encompass has had resource implications for the EA CPSS. To date, funding has been available from the Department of Justice (DoJ) under the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, 2016-2023 Strategy. My officials are continuing to engage with the DoJ to secure funding under the new Domestic and Sexual Abuse 2023-2030 strategy. Options are also being explored regarding the use of technologies to streamline delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012716%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403637","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403637"}},{"id":"403636","reference":"AQW 12715/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-30","answerBy":"2024-06-14","answered":"2024-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any plans he has to encourage more programmes for children to engage with older people; and (ii) his assessment of any benefits of programmes already held.","answerText":"The Department’s school improvement policy ‘Every School a Good School’ sets out the four key characteristics of a successful school, which include that a school is connected to its local community. Where this characteristic is well embedded, there will be good relationships that facilitate engagement and communication between a school, its parents and the wider community it serves. There are many examples of best practice throughout our school network that promote engagement between pupils and older people in the local community, such as visits to residential homes and older people volunteering within primary schools to assist pupils with their reading.\n\nIn recent years, my Department and the Education Authority have liaised with Linking Generations Northern Ireland, an organisation which has been connecting generations in communities across Northern Ireland since 2009. I am also aware that the Northern Ireland Forest School Association runs an intergenerational programme which involves partnerships between nursery and primary schools and residencies selected by Radius Housing.\n\nDue to the financial pressures facing my Department and the need to prioritise frontline services, I am not in a position to develop or fund any new programmes at the present time. However, I recognise that there are many educational, social and community benefits associated with programmes which bring together children and older people. They play an important role in bridging the generational divide and have the potential to enrich the lives of all who participate in them.","answerHtml":"The Department’s school improvement policy ‘Every School a Good School’ sets out the four key characteristics of a successful school, which include that a school is connected to its local community. Where this characteristic is well embedded, there will be good relationships that facilitate engagement and communication between a school, its parents and the wider community it serves. There are many examples of best practice throughout our school network that promote engagement between pupils and older people in the local community, such as visits to residential homes and older people volunteering within primary schools to assist pupils with their reading.
In recent years, my Department and the Education Authority have liaised with Linking Generations Northern Ireland, an organisation which has been connecting generations in communities across Northern Ireland since 2009. I am also aware that the Northern Ireland Forest School Association runs an intergenerational programme which involves partnerships between nursery and primary schools and residencies selected by Radius Housing.
Due to the financial pressures facing my Department and the need to prioritise frontline services, I am not in a position to develop or fund any new programmes at the present time. However, I recognise that there are many educational, social and community benefits associated with programmes which bring together children and older people. They play an important role in bridging the generational divide and have the potential to enrich the lives of all who participate in them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012715%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403636","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403636"}},{"id":"403635","reference":"AQW 12714/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-30","answerBy":"2024-06-14","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans for cutting waiting times in gynaecology.","answerText":"Gynaecology Services in Northern Ireland have been impacted by Covid, and other general overarching pressures, this has led to increased waiting times across the region.\n\nThe Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) has been asked to establish a forum to take forward the recommendations of the recent Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology. This forum has Trust, Public Health Agency (PHA) and General Practitioner (GP) representation and will oversee gynaecology service improvement and pathway development at both a local and regional level.\n\nThere may be additional finance required to meet demands in this service, and in the current financial position this may be challenging.","answerHtml":"Gynaecology Services in Northern Ireland have been impacted by Covid, and other general overarching pressures, this has led to increased waiting times across the region.
The Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) has been asked to establish a forum to take forward the recommendations of the recent Getting it Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology. This forum has Trust, Public Health Agency (PHA) and General Practitioner (GP) representation and will oversee gynaecology service improvement and pathway development at both a local and regional level.
There may be additional finance required to meet demands in this service, and in the current financial position this may be challenging.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012714%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403635","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403635"}},{"id":"404898","reference":"AQO 541/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-30","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what engagement they have had with victims on their experience of the court system, as part of their work to bring forward the Strategic Framework Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.","answerText":"The lived experience of women and girls has been central to the development and delivery of the draft Strategic Framework.\n\nThrough co-design and other engagement, our officials have met with Victims Support NI, Women’s Aid NI, Nexus NI, as well as those individuals with lived experience.\n\nThe Co-design process identified Justice as one of four main pillars of the Framework, and the key outcome as “A justice system which has the confidence of victims, survivors and the public in its ability to address violence against women and girls”.\n\nThe voices of women and girls who have lived experience will continue to inform the implementation of the Strategic Framework: this includes women and girls with experience of the court system.\n\nWe are committed to bringing forward the Strategic Framework and Action Plan for consideration by the Executive Committee as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"The lived experience of women and girls has been central to the development and delivery of the draft Strategic Framework.
Through co-design and other engagement, our officials have met with Victims Support NI, Women’s Aid NI, Nexus NI, as well as those individuals with lived experience.
The Co-design process identified Justice as one of four main pillars of the Framework, and the key outcome as “A justice system which has the confidence of victims, survivors and the public in its ability to address violence against women and girls”.
The voices of women and girls who have lived experience will continue to inform the implementation of the Strategic Framework: this includes women and girls with experience of the court system.
We are committed to bringing forward the Strategic Framework and Action Plan for consideration by the Executive Committee as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20541%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=404898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=404898"}},{"id":"403495","reference":"AQW 12663/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-29","answerBy":"2024-06-13","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the number of job vacancies in the agri-food industry; and (ii) what steps he is taking to address this.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of the agri-food sector to our economy, and how crucial it is to rural and regional development. I am aware of the labour shortages in our agri-food sector and that the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has written to the British Government on this issue.\n\nIn terms of the impact of the new immigration rules on labour supply for the sector, I have written to the Home Secretary to underline these difficulties and ask for consideration to be given to a change to the minimum salary threshold. I will continue to lobby British Government Ministers on this issue.\n\nMy officials will continue to engage with the Migration Advisory Committee and their substantive review of the Immigration Salary List, which will result in a renewed assessment of labour market conditions and the new salary thresholds.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of the agri-food sector to our economy, and how crucial it is to rural and regional development. I am aware of the labour shortages in our agri-food sector and that the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs has written to the British Government on this issue.
In terms of the impact of the new immigration rules on labour supply for the sector, I have written to the Home Secretary to underline these difficulties and ask for consideration to be given to a change to the minimum salary threshold. I will continue to lobby British Government Ministers on this issue.
My officials will continue to engage with the Migration Advisory Committee and their substantive review of the Immigration Salary List, which will result in a renewed assessment of labour market conditions and the new salary thresholds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012663%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403495"}},{"id":"403494","reference":"AQW 12662/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-29","answerBy":"2024-06-13","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans to increase respite services in East Londonderry for parents of children with additional needs.","answerText":"The Western Health and Social Care Trust have one facility in Londonderry that offers respite services to parents of children with disabilities. The Western Trust has informed my Department that Rosebud Short Break Unit has limited short breaks being provided, due to 2 children requiring full time care placements within the unit.\n\nThe Western Health and Social Care Trust has informed my department that they are aware of the stresses and anxieties for families that the limited short break provision will be creating.\n\nMy Departmental officials continue to engage with the Western Health and Social Care Trust around the issue of Short breaks provision to restore the facility to its previous offer of respite care.\n\nThe Children With Disability Framework is also currently being finalised by my Department in response to increasing challenges faced by families of Children With Disability and the corresponding difficulties experienced by Trusts in meeting rising demands and increased complexity of need. It is recognised that a review and reform of how services are structured, delivered and resourced, both from a regional perspective and locally in each of the Trusts is required. This includes the provision of Short Break.\n\nThe full implementation of the Children With Disability Framework will better enable Trusts and independent sector providers to respond to the pressures across Health and Social Care, specifically: (i) increasing demand for early and community-based support; (ii) increasing demand for respite care/short breaks; (iii) increasing demand for more bespoke residential placements; and (iv) better planning and management of complex transitions from children to adult services.\n\nA Children With Disability Workstream has also been established as part of the Children’s Social Care Services Strategic Reform Board. This workstream will be looking specifically at the regional position in respect of Children With Disability, and will include a focus on short breaks / respite. The Children With Disability Workstream will seek to deliver reform within Children’s Social Care services to address a range of known service challenges, particularly in relation to an ever-increasing volume and complexity of case work. The outcomes of this work will inform future commissioning.","answerHtml":"The Western Health and Social Care Trust have one facility in Londonderry that offers respite services to parents of children with disabilities. The Western Trust has informed my Department that Rosebud Short Break Unit has limited short breaks being provided, due to 2 children requiring full time care placements within the unit.
The Western Health and Social Care Trust has informed my department that they are aware of the stresses and anxieties for families that the limited short break provision will be creating.
My Departmental officials continue to engage with the Western Health and Social Care Trust around the issue of Short breaks provision to restore the facility to its previous offer of respite care.
The Children With Disability Framework is also currently being finalised by my Department in response to increasing challenges faced by families of Children With Disability and the corresponding difficulties experienced by Trusts in meeting rising demands and increased complexity of need. It is recognised that a review and reform of how services are structured, delivered and resourced, both from a regional perspective and locally in each of the Trusts is required. This includes the provision of Short Break.
The full implementation of the Children With Disability Framework will better enable Trusts and independent sector providers to respond to the pressures across Health and Social Care, specifically: (i) increasing demand for early and community-based support; (ii) increasing demand for respite care/short breaks; (iii) increasing demand for more bespoke residential placements; and (iv) better planning and management of complex transitions from children to adult services.
A Children With Disability Workstream has also been established as part of the Children’s Social Care Services Strategic Reform Board. This workstream will be looking specifically at the regional position in respect of Children With Disability, and will include a focus on short breaks / respite. The Children With Disability Workstream will seek to deliver reform within Children’s Social Care services to address a range of known service challenges, particularly in relation to an ever-increasing volume and complexity of case work. The outcomes of this work will inform future commissioning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012662%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403494"}},{"id":"403493","reference":"AQW 12661/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-29","answerBy":"2024-06-13","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to ensure the timely (i) diagnosis; and (ii) treatment of dementia.","answerText":"There is a commitment across Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland to improving timely access to accurate diagnosis and treatment for people living with Dementia.\n\nThe Department has issued a 9-week target which sets out that people should have a first assessment within that timescale. All Trusts have advised that they employ a rigorous triaging regime on receipt of dementia referrals to ensure that those individuals at greatest risk are seen first. My officials continue to engage with the Health and Social Care Trusts in order to scrutinize performance against this 9-week target and monitor the numbers of new and review clinic appointments which have been achieved.\n\nThe diagnostic rate for dementia in Northern Ireland has improved to 62% comparative rates in England are reported as 64.6%. The majority of those patients receive a diagnosis at their first appointment and will start an appropriate medication.\n\nIn relation to waiting times, as of 30th April 2024, there were 58.3% breaches of the 9-week target. Therefore, 2,663 people were awaiting first assessment, with 1,553 people waiting for more than 9 weeks.\n\nIn relation to treatment of Dementia, Northern Ireland was one of the first regions to make dementia medications available to citizens. There is free prescribing of the currently available drugs- Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors and Memantine.\n\nMy officials have held the inaugural meeting of a Regional Dementia Project Board on 24th May 2024. The project board aims to support the delivery of existing dementia services, as well as consider future service delivery models. Key priorities for the Regional Dementia Project Board will be to decrease waiting times for assessment and diagnosis, to consider steps to improve efficiency in systems and processes across the region, to consider regional approaches to training, to improve the experience of diagnosis for people with dementia and their relatives/carers and to formulate a clear regional vision of services into the future.","answerHtml":"There is a commitment across Health and Social Care in Northern Ireland to improving timely access to accurate diagnosis and treatment for people living with Dementia.
The Department has issued a 9-week target which sets out that people should have a first assessment within that timescale. All Trusts have advised that they employ a rigorous triaging regime on receipt of dementia referrals to ensure that those individuals at greatest risk are seen first. My officials continue to engage with the Health and Social Care Trusts in order to scrutinize performance against this 9-week target and monitor the numbers of new and review clinic appointments which have been achieved.
The diagnostic rate for dementia in Northern Ireland has improved to 62% comparative rates in England are reported as 64.6%. The majority of those patients receive a diagnosis at their first appointment and will start an appropriate medication.
In relation to waiting times, as of 30th April 2024, there were 58.3% breaches of the 9-week target. Therefore, 2,663 people were awaiting first assessment, with 1,553 people waiting for more than 9 weeks.
In relation to treatment of Dementia, Northern Ireland was one of the first regions to make dementia medications available to citizens. There is free prescribing of the currently available drugs- Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitors and Memantine.
My officials have held the inaugural meeting of a Regional Dementia Project Board on 24th May 2024. The project board aims to support the delivery of existing dementia services, as well as consider future service delivery models. Key priorities for the Regional Dementia Project Board will be to decrease waiting times for assessment and diagnosis, to consider steps to improve efficiency in systems and processes across the region, to consider regional approaches to training, to improve the experience of diagnosis for people with dementia and their relatives/carers and to formulate a clear regional vision of services into the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012661%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403493"}},{"id":"403492","reference":"AQW 12660/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-29","answerBy":"2024-06-13","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of children on the waiting list for education welfare support; and (ii) the steps he is taking to increase the number of education welfare officers.","answerText":"There are currently 2,229 children on the waiting list for Education Welfare Support.\n\nA review of the Education Welfare Service has been completed which proposes the need to transform the service to provide more effective and timelier support through prevention and early intervention. The associated business case is being finalised by the Education Authority and will be submitted shortly to the Department for consideration.","answerHtml":"There are currently 2,229 children on the waiting list for Education Welfare Support.
A review of the Education Welfare Service has been completed which proposes the need to transform the service to provide more effective and timelier support through prevention and early intervention. The associated business case is being finalised by the Education Authority and will be submitted shortly to the Department for consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012660%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403492"}},{"id":"403491","reference":"AQW 12659/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-29","answerBy":"2024-06-13","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to ensure everyone who needs it has access to an NHS dentist.","answerText":"A key part of the access issues facing patients in General Dental Services were the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers had meant that it had not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. In March 2024, a 6% pay uplift for General Dental Services for 2023/24, in line with recommendations contained in the 51st Doctors and Dentists Review Board report, was announced. This uplift comes with a 7.3% uplift to non-staff expenses for 2023/24, with a 3% recurrent award in future years.\n\nIn March 2024 the Department also announced a £9.2m investment package for General Dental Services to include:\n\n£1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay;\n\n£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25, to support public access to priority treatments; and\n\n£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme.\n\nUntil the Dental Access Scheme is implemented, a pilot scheme will continue to run to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group office for advice.","answerHtml":"A key part of the access issues facing patients in General Dental Services were the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers had meant that it had not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. In March 2024, a 6% pay uplift for General Dental Services for 2023/24, in line with recommendations contained in the 51st Doctors and Dentists Review Board report, was announced. This uplift comes with a 7.3% uplift to non-staff expenses for 2023/24, with a 3% recurrent award in future years.
In March 2024 the Department also announced a £9.2m investment package for General Dental Services to include:
£1m for newly registered child patients through the reestablishment of the Enhanced Child Examination Scheme. This scheme provides children aged 0-10 who have not been registered with a dentist with an examination, individualised oral health advice and age-specific fluoride application to teeth to assist with preventing dental decay;
£4.3m to fund a 30% enhancement to fees paid to dentists for health service fillings, extractions and root canal treatment for 2024/25, to support public access to priority treatments; and
£3.9m for the treatment of high priority unregistered patients through a Dental Access Scheme.
Until the Dental Access Scheme is implemented, a pilot scheme will continue to run to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group office for advice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012659%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403491"}},{"id":"403364","reference":"AQW 12591/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail plans he has to act on the Strategic Investment Board’s report into the need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland; (ii) for his assessment of the report; and (iii) for his assessment of the current provision of vets in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"At the request of former Minister Lyons, the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) was commissioned to undertake a situational analysis and baseline report to inform any future strategic business case for a veterinary school for Northern Ireland (NI). SIB produced reports on both, and these have been published on the DAERA website.\n\nThe steering group, established to provide governance, recognised that the situational analysis and baseline report was only a small element of the overall consideration of the need for a veterinary school and that further work to advance a business case now rests with the third level educational institutes.\n\nI have recently met with Ulster University to discuss their ambitions and intentions including their plans for introducing veterinary related courses. This included the considerations around a veterinary school within NI and the SIB situational analysis/baseline report.\n\nIt should also be noted that, whilst DAERA is a key employer within the veterinary sector and as such has a vested interest in securing such a talent pipeline, issues around workforce planning for the veterinary sector sits within the remit of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).\n\nHowever, DAERA will where requested continue to discuss with and support educational institutes should they seek to progress a business case for a veterinary school in NI.","answerHtml":"At the request of former Minister Lyons, the Strategic Investment Board (SIB) was commissioned to undertake a situational analysis and baseline report to inform any future strategic business case for a veterinary school for Northern Ireland (NI). SIB produced reports on both, and these have been published on the DAERA website.
The steering group, established to provide governance, recognised that the situational analysis and baseline report was only a small element of the overall consideration of the need for a veterinary school and that further work to advance a business case now rests with the third level educational institutes.
I have recently met with Ulster University to discuss their ambitions and intentions including their plans for introducing veterinary related courses. This included the considerations around a veterinary school within NI and the SIB situational analysis/baseline report.
It should also be noted that, whilst DAERA is a key employer within the veterinary sector and as such has a vested interest in securing such a talent pipeline, issues around workforce planning for the veterinary sector sits within the remit of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons (RCVS).
However, DAERA will where requested continue to discuss with and support educational institutes should they seek to progress a business case for a veterinary school in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012591%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403364","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403364"}},{"id":"403363","reference":"AQW 12590/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how he will work to maximise the economic benefits for local traders and businesses from The Open being held at Royal Portrush Golf Club in 2025.","answerText":"Tourism NI (TNI), on behalf of my department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019. The previous event generated more than £100 million of combined economic and media benefit for the North. The Causeway Coast area alone received a £26.21 million injection of new money.\n\nThe Open in 2025 will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors and will showcase the destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come. In 2019, TNI’s Golf Monitor demonstrated that 53% of people who visited the region to play golf that year were directly influenced by hosting of The Open.\n\nAn industry engagement programme will be delivered in the lead up to the event, in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. This will assist and advise local traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present. It will include working with businesses to provide reasons for event visitors to extend their stay and explore the wider area, alongside the ongoing support for the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that deliver on the 'Embrace a Giant Spirit' brand.\n\nSustainable workforce opportunities will be developed for beyond July 2025, through skills development, employment before, during and after the event, and volunteering. TNI will support the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign, and e-learning platform. In addition, TNI will work with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the North to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.\n\nAside from the world-class golf offering, other local experiences on the Causeway Coast will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions, and entertainment. In partnership with Tourism Ireland, a significant promotion and marketing campaign including a series of golf tour operator and media familiarisations trips in order to promote the destination to a global audience, will be delivered locally, nationally and globally, to encourage visitors to experience all our destination has to offer.\n\nMy vision is to cultivate a productive, regionally balanced and carbon-neutral economy that provides good jobs. The welcome return of The Open to our shores will support that ambition.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI (TNI), on behalf of my department, is committed to working with key partners to deliver benefits from The 153rd Open in 2025 in excess of those of The 148th Open in 2019. The previous event generated more than £100 million of combined economic and media benefit for the North. The Causeway Coast area alone received a £26.21 million injection of new money.
The Open in 2025 will bring hundreds of thousands of visitors and will showcase the destination through the huge global broadcast reach and PR coverage generated, that will deliver a legacy for years to come. In 2019, TNI’s Golf Monitor demonstrated that 53% of people who visited the region to play golf that year were directly influenced by hosting of The Open.
An industry engagement programme will be delivered in the lead up to the event, in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. This will assist and advise local traders and businesses on how best to avail of opportunities that The Open will present. It will include working with businesses to provide reasons for event visitors to extend their stay and explore the wider area, alongside the ongoing support for the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that deliver on the 'Embrace a Giant Spirit' brand.
Sustainable workforce opportunities will be developed for beyond July 2025, through skills development, employment before, during and after the event, and volunteering. TNI will support the industry to recruit and retain staff through its ongoing ‘Make it Here’ careers campaign, and e-learning platform. In addition, TNI will work with Fáilte Ireland to extend its Employer Excellence Programme into the North to foster a culture of excellence in the workplace, making tourism and hospitality sectors rewarding and attractive places to work.
Aside from the world-class golf offering, other local experiences on the Causeway Coast will be promoted including high quality accommodation, restaurants, visitor attractions, and entertainment. In partnership with Tourism Ireland, a significant promotion and marketing campaign including a series of golf tour operator and media familiarisations trips in order to promote the destination to a global audience, will be delivered locally, nationally and globally, to encourage visitors to experience all our destination has to offer.
My vision is to cultivate a productive, regionally balanced and carbon-neutral economy that provides good jobs. The welcome return of The Open to our shores will support that ambition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012590%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403363","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403363"}},{"id":"403362","reference":"AQW 12589/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail how he is working (a) within his Department; and (b) across Departments, to reach Northern Ireland’s agreed climate targets; and (ii) for his assessment of progress made since the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 was established.","answerText":"My Department is leading on development of Northern Ireland’s first Climate Action Plan (CAP), working together across all departments, to set out Northern Ireland’s approach to meeting the carbon budget for 2023 to 2027 and establishing a Net Zero pathway through a set of proposals and policies for emissions reductions.\n\nCollaboration is occurring at strategic and delivery levels, within DAERA and across departments through a Strategic Oversight Group (a cross-Departmental group comprising senior officials from all NI Departments), a sector/departmental leads group, an Evidence and Analysis group (a cross-departmental group which aims to support the provision of robust evidence, analyses and advice to inform CAP development) and supported by a core CAP team in DAERA.\n\nIn terms of the progress made to meet the targets set out in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, the most recent Northern Ireland Greenhouse Gas Inventory report shows emissions reduced by 23.2% from the base year to 2021. To meet the 2030 target, a 48% reduction is required so the rate of decarbonsation needs to substantially increase. This will require concerted effort by all.\n\nIn addition to progressing the development of a Climate Action Plan, other progress made includes-\n\nbringing into operation the Climate Change (Reporting Bodies) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024 on 3 May 2024;\n\ndeveloping policy to enable regulations to be made that will set Northern Ireland’s first three carbon budgets and appropriate emission reduction targets for 2030 and 2040. Draft regulations have been prepared and I hope to be soon in a position to seek Executive approval for the regulations before laying the regulations in the Assembly for approval;\n\ndeveloping policy around the establishment of an independent Just Transition Commission and I envisage that proposals will be published for public consultation in the coming months;\n\nimplementation of a net zero aligned cap for the UK Emissions Trading Scheme with effect from 1 January 2024, acting jointly with the UK, Scottish and Welsh Governments as the UK ETS Authority;\n\ncommissioning the Climate Change Committee to undertake an independent assessment of the second Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme (NICCAP2) which is being used to help inform the development of NICCAP3.","answerHtml":"My Department is leading on development of Northern Ireland’s first Climate Action Plan (CAP), working together across all departments, to set out Northern Ireland’s approach to meeting the carbon budget for 2023 to 2027 and establishing a Net Zero pathway through a set of proposals and policies for emissions reductions.
Collaboration is occurring at strategic and delivery levels, within DAERA and across departments through a Strategic Oversight Group (a cross-Departmental group comprising senior officials from all NI Departments), a sector/departmental leads group, an Evidence and Analysis group (a cross-departmental group which aims to support the provision of robust evidence, analyses and advice to inform CAP development) and supported by a core CAP team in DAERA.
In terms of the progress made to meet the targets set out in the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022, the most recent Northern Ireland Greenhouse Gas Inventory report shows emissions reduced by 23.2% from the base year to 2021. To meet the 2030 target, a 48% reduction is required so the rate of decarbonsation needs to substantially increase. This will require concerted effort by all.
In addition to progressing the development of a Climate Action Plan, other progress made includes-
bringing into operation the Climate Change (Reporting Bodies) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2024 on 3 May 2024;
developing policy to enable regulations to be made that will set Northern Ireland’s first three carbon budgets and appropriate emission reduction targets for 2030 and 2040. Draft regulations have been prepared and I hope to be soon in a position to seek Executive approval for the regulations before laying the regulations in the Assembly for approval;
developing policy around the establishment of an independent Just Transition Commission and I envisage that proposals will be published for public consultation in the coming months;
implementation of a net zero aligned cap for the UK Emissions Trading Scheme with effect from 1 January 2024, acting jointly with the UK, Scottish and Welsh Governments as the UK ETS Authority;
commissioning the Climate Change Committee to undertake an independent assessment of the second Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme (NICCAP2) which is being used to help inform the development of NICCAP3.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012589%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403362","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403362"}},{"id":"403361","reference":"AQW 12588/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the work he is carrying out to support the arts in rural areas.","answerText":"The Arts Council of Northern Ireland are the main distributor for funding for the arts on behalf of the Department and have delivered a specific funding programme targeting arts engagement in rural areas. The National Lottery Rural Engagement Arts Programme (REAP) has operated for two years: 2022/23 and 2023/24.\n\nIts purpose is to provide an integrated, cohesive approach to the needs of local rural communities while recognising some specific issues they face. The primary theme of REAP is combating isolation and loneliness and promoting social inclusion. To date 133 awards, totalling £890,080, have been made through this programme. It is anticipated that REAP will run in 2024/25 however dates are to be confirmed.\n\nIn addition to the dedicated programme above, the Arts Council run other funding programmes to which organisations in rural areas are eligible to apply. Further to this, a number of Annually Funded and National Lottery Project funded clients will undertake outreach work in rural areas.\n\nThe Department’s Community Festivals Fund, delivered in partnership with local councils, supports Culture-based festivals, many of which take place within rural areas across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Arts Council of Northern Ireland are the main distributor for funding for the arts on behalf of the Department and have delivered a specific funding programme targeting arts engagement in rural areas. The National Lottery Rural Engagement Arts Programme (REAP) has operated for two years: 2022/23 and 2023/24.
Its purpose is to provide an integrated, cohesive approach to the needs of local rural communities while recognising some specific issues they face. The primary theme of REAP is combating isolation and loneliness and promoting social inclusion. To date 133 awards, totalling £890,080, have been made through this programme. It is anticipated that REAP will run in 2024/25 however dates are to be confirmed.
In addition to the dedicated programme above, the Arts Council run other funding programmes to which organisations in rural areas are eligible to apply. Further to this, a number of Annually Funded and National Lottery Project funded clients will undertake outreach work in rural areas.
The Department’s Community Festivals Fund, delivered in partnership with local councils, supports Culture-based festivals, many of which take place within rural areas across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012588%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403361"}},{"id":"403360","reference":"AQW 12587/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-28","answerBy":"2024-06-12","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to update the Neighbourhood Renewal strategy, launched in 2003.","answerText":"A review of the Executive’s People and Place strategy is currently underway with co-design structures in place to facilitate engagement with a wide range of stakeholders including the Neighbourhood Renewal partnerships, representatives from Section 75 groups and the wider voluntary and community sector including those from rural communities.\n\nGiven the complex nature of deprivation providing the right support for communities will require a collaborative and integrated cross Departmental approach by the Executive.\n\nThe drafting of a strategic document will take place over the summer months after which I will present it to the Executive for further consideration.\n\nIt is then envisaged that a public consultation exercise will take place in the Autumn.","answerHtml":"A review of the Executive’s People and Place strategy is currently underway with co-design structures in place to facilitate engagement with a wide range of stakeholders including the Neighbourhood Renewal partnerships, representatives from Section 75 groups and the wider voluntary and community sector including those from rural communities.
Given the complex nature of deprivation providing the right support for communities will require a collaborative and integrated cross Departmental approach by the Executive.
The drafting of a strategic document will take place over the summer months after which I will present it to the Executive for further consideration.
It is then envisaged that a public consultation exercise will take place in the Autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012587%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403360"}},{"id":"403109","reference":"AQW 12529/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-24","answerBy":"2024-06-11","answered":"2024-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the work he has carried out with (i) farmers; and (ii) the Ulster Farmers’ Union to agree a system whereby no farmer is losing money on their produce, enabling them to continue to operate as a viable and sustainable business.","answerText":"In a market economy it is not possible to agree a system whereby no farmer fails to make a profit as the government does not control prices or decision making on farms. This is also the case for businesses in the wider economy. My Department does provide advice and support to farm businesses, including around £300m in direct payments annually.","answerHtml":"In a market economy it is not possible to agree a system whereby no farmer fails to make a profit as the government does not control prices or decision making on farms. This is also the case for businesses in the wider economy. My Department does provide advice and support to farm businesses, including around £300m in direct payments annually.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012529%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403109"}},{"id":"403108","reference":"AQW 12528/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-24","answerBy":"2024-06-11","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the active vacancy rate of domiciliary care staff, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012528%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403108"}},{"id":"403107","reference":"AQW 12527/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-24","answerBy":"2024-06-11","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of (i) primary pupils; (ii) post-primary pupils; and (iii) pupils with special educational needs that have been left without a school place for the 2024-25 academic year, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The position as at 31 May 2024 is as follows:\n\n6 primary school children are still to be placed for 2024/25:\n\nBelfast East - 1\n\nBelfast South - 1\n\nBelfast West - 1\n\nFoyle - 2\n\nMid Ulster - 1\n\nTOTAL – 6\n\n63 post-primary pupils are still to be placed for 2024/25:\n\nBelfast North - 2\n\nBelfast South - 4\n\nBelfast West - 1\n\nEast Antrim - 4\n\nEast Londonderry - 1\n\nFermanagh & South Tyrone - 4\n\nFoyle - 6\n\nLagan Valley - 1\n\nMid Ulster - 9\n\nNewry & Armagh - 7\n\nNorth Antrim - 4\n\nSouth Antrim - 1\n\nSouth Down - 3\n\nStrangford - 3\n\nUpper Bann - 2\n\nWest Tyrone - 6\n\nOutside NI - 5\n\nTOTAL - 63\n\n60% (n.41K) of children with special educational needs (SEN) do not have a statement of SEN and apply for a school placement through the general admissions process and may, therefore, be included in the primary and post-primary figures above.\n\n40% (n. 27K) of children with SEN have a statement of SEN. These children follow a different process for confirming their school placement whereby their school placement is named in their final statement of SEN. This process is highly individualised and the placement is based on the assessed needs of the child, in consultation with schools and parents. There are no opening and closing dates as with the schools admissions process, meaning that comparison with the general admission process is inaccurate.","answerHtml":"The position as at 31 May 2024 is as follows:
6 primary school children are still to be placed for 2024/25:
Belfast East - 1
Belfast South - 1
Belfast West - 1
Foyle - 2
Mid Ulster - 1
TOTAL – 6
63 post-primary pupils are still to be placed for 2024/25:
Belfast North - 2
Belfast South - 4
Belfast West - 1
East Antrim - 4
East Londonderry - 1
Fermanagh & South Tyrone - 4
Foyle - 6
Lagan Valley - 1
Mid Ulster - 9
Newry & Armagh - 7
North Antrim - 4
South Antrim - 1
South Down - 3
Strangford - 3
Upper Bann - 2
West Tyrone - 6
Outside NI - 5
TOTAL - 63
60% (n.41K) of children with special educational needs (SEN) do not have a statement of SEN and apply for a school placement through the general admissions process and may, therefore, be included in the primary and post-primary figures above.
40% (n. 27K) of children with SEN have a statement of SEN. These children follow a different process for confirming their school placement whereby their school placement is named in their final statement of SEN. This process is highly individualised and the placement is based on the assessed needs of the child, in consultation with schools and parents. There are no opening and closing dates as with the schools admissions process, meaning that comparison with the general admission process is inaccurate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012527%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403107","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403107"}},{"id":"403106","reference":"AQW 12526/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-24","answerBy":"2024-06-11","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the amount of sewage that is released into the sea; and (ii) what steps he is taking to prevent this.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) does not hold information on the amount of wastewater related discharges released to the sea.\n\nNIEA regulates sewage discharges to the water environment under the Water Order (as amended) 1999. A regulatory regime is in place, through the issue of Water Order Discharge Consents. These Consents require dischargers to treat sewage to a level that can be sustained by the receiving environment and to maintain their treatments to avoid pollution. Discharge consents are issued to single dwellings, private sewage infrastructure serving residential / commercial properties, and NI Water.\n\nNIEA uses a risk-based approach to monitor these consents and where non-compliances are detected, NIEA will take action in line with the Department’s enforcement policy.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) does not hold information on the amount of wastewater related discharges released to the sea.
NIEA regulates sewage discharges to the water environment under the Water Order (as amended) 1999. A regulatory regime is in place, through the issue of Water Order Discharge Consents. These Consents require dischargers to treat sewage to a level that can be sustained by the receiving environment and to maintain their treatments to avoid pollution. Discharge consents are issued to single dwellings, private sewage infrastructure serving residential / commercial properties, and NI Water.
NIEA uses a risk-based approach to monitor these consents and where non-compliances are detected, NIEA will take action in line with the Department’s enforcement policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012526%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403106","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403106"}},{"id":"403105","reference":"AQW 12525/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-24","answerBy":"2024-06-11","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of livestock culls in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Following clarification received, this response details animals culled in the years 2019-2023 per Divisional Veterinary Office (DVO) for:\n\nbovine Tuberculosis (bTB) eradication\n\nHighly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) eradication.\n\nResults illustrated in the 2 tables below:\n\nbTB\n\nYear\tNumber of animals per DVO\nArmagh\tB’mena\tColeraine\tD’Gannon\tE’killen\tL’Derry/\nStrabane\tMallusk\tNewry\tN’Ards\tOmagh\n2019\t1520\t672\t1066\t1556\t1538\t207\t698\t2623\t1747\t1392\n2020\t1098\t771\t1769\t1279\t1842\t209\t543\t2856\t1700\t1270\n2021\t1296\t646\t1769\t1480\t1949\t238\t517\t3134\t2060\t1270\n2022\t1293\t1035\t1990\t1508\t2831\t524\t547\t3376\t2613\t1653\n2023\t2070\t834\t1751\t1890\t3003\t639\t324\t3130\t2388\t2121\n\nii) HPAI\n\nYear\tDVO\tNumber of Flock Depopulations (no of birds in brackets)\n2019\tN/A\t0\n2020\tN/A\t0\n2021\tArmagh\nBallymena\nDungannon\nMallusk\t1 (13212)\n3 (16220, 30300 and 32)\n3 (21400, 24829 and 26754)\n1 (31000)\n2022\tEnniskillen\t1 (47)\n2023\tN/A\t0","answerHtml":"Following clarification received, this response details animals culled in the years 2019-2023 per Divisional Veterinary Office (DVO) for:
bovine Tuberculosis (bTB) eradication
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) eradication.
Results illustrated in the 2 tables below:
bTB
| Year | Number of animals per DVO | |||||||||
| Armagh | B’mena | Coleraine | D’Gannon | E’killen | L’Derry/ Strabane | Mallusk | Newry | N’Ards | Omagh | |
| 2019 | 1520 | 672 | 1066 | 1556 | 1538 | 207 | 698 | 2623 | 1747 | 1392 |
| 2020 | 1098 | 771 | 1769 | 1279 | 1842 | 209 | 543 | 2856 | 1700 | 1270 |
| 2021 | 1296 | 646 | 1769 | 1480 | 1949 | 238 | 517 | 3134 | 2060 | 1270 |
| 2022 | 1293 | 1035 | 1990 | 1508 | 2831 | 524 | 547 | 3376 | 2613 | 1653 |
| 2023 | 2070 | 834 | 1751 | 1890 | 3003 | 639 | 324 | 3130 | 2388 | 2121 |
ii) HPAI
| Year | DVO | Number of Flock Depopulations (no of birds in brackets) |
| 2019 | N/A | 0 |
| 2020 | N/A | 0 |
| 2021 | Armagh Ballymena Dungannon Mallusk | 1 (13212) 3 (16220, 30300 and 32) 3 (21400, 24829 and 26754) 1 (31000) |
| 2022 | Enniskillen | 1 (47) |
| 2023 | N/A | 0 |
(i) Following concerns raised by victims of domestic abuse, amongst others, my Department has already commenced policy scoping work to consider how the openness of family courts could be increased, whilst continuing to protect the privacy of the families and children involved. Subject to the outcome of that work, any legislative change to enable greater media access and reporting would be for the longer term.
(ii) The decisions reached by courts in individual cases are matters for the independent judiciary. Generally, however, I note that, in relation to proceedings concerning arrangements for children, the legislative framework already makes the welfare of the child the court’s paramount consideration. Further, where a party applying for a residence or contact order has a conviction for a domestic abuse related offence involving the child, or is subject to a non-molestation order, a court is required to have regard to this. Looking ahead, I will be giving careful consideration to responses from victims of domestic abuse to current and planned Departmental consultations touching on family proceedings. I will also consider, in due course, the findings of the research on children’s experiences of family proceedings to be carried out for the Commissioner Designate for Victims of Crime. I remain committed, so far as is within my remit, to supporting victims of domestic abuse involved in family proceedings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012462%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402952"}},{"id":"402951","reference":"AQW 12461/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for his assessment of the sustainable schools policy and how this impacts small, rural schools where numbers are typically low; and (ii) to detail his plans to review this in order to protect rural schools and safeguard rural communities.","answerText":"(i) The Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) sets the vision for every learner to achieve his or her full potential at each stage of development. At its core is the aim of ensuring that all pupils have access to a high quality, broad and balanced curriculum that meets their educational needs in schools that are educationally and financially viable. So, notwithstanding publication in 2009, the vision set out in the SSP remains appropriate.\n\nThe SSP is the framework, used by schools and school managing authorities, for assessing the viability and long-term sustainability of schools and as such is the cornerstone for the Area Planning process. The policy recognises the needs of rural communities and this is reflected in a lower enrolment threshold for rural primary schools, an accessibility criterion which provides guidance on home to school travel times and a ‘strong links with the community’ criterion which recognises the central place a school has for many communities.\n\n(ii) Departmental officials have completed an internal consultation on the recommendations from the Independent Review of Education. A paper is now being produced for my consideration outlining the findings. I expect that this will include comments on the SSP. I will consider the need to commission a full review of SSP after I have received this paper.","answerHtml":"(i) The Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) sets the vision for every learner to achieve his or her full potential at each stage of development. At its core is the aim of ensuring that all pupils have access to a high quality, broad and balanced curriculum that meets their educational needs in schools that are educationally and financially viable. So, notwithstanding publication in 2009, the vision set out in the SSP remains appropriate.
The SSP is the framework, used by schools and school managing authorities, for assessing the viability and long-term sustainability of schools and as such is the cornerstone for the Area Planning process. The policy recognises the needs of rural communities and this is reflected in a lower enrolment threshold for rural primary schools, an accessibility criterion which provides guidance on home to school travel times and a ‘strong links with the community’ criterion which recognises the central place a school has for many communities.
(ii) Departmental officials have completed an internal consultation on the recommendations from the Independent Review of Education. A paper is now being produced for my consideration outlining the findings. I expect that this will include comments on the SSP. I will consider the need to commission a full review of SSP after I have received this paper.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012461%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402951"}},{"id":"402950","reference":"AQW 12460/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the contact and feedback he has had with farmers regarding the creation of a biomethane industry; and (ii) whether any estimates have been made as to the potential for this industry to reduce carbon output from agriculture.","answerText":"I recently met the Ulster Farmers Union to discuss the benefits of a growing sustainable biomethane sector. In addition, my department has engaged directly with farmers through on farm CAFRE slurry management events in January 2024 and with the broader industry. Feedback from stakeholders recognises the benefits of biomethane production in reducing both our carbon footprint and excess nutrients.\n\nMy department also delivered a Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) in 2023 on the Sustainable Utilisation of Livestock Slurry (SULS). As part of this project, suppliers had direct engagement with farmers and issued surveys to garner feedback on the supply and management of slurry as a feedstock for anaerobic digestion to produce biomethane.\n\nOngoing Climate Action Plan mitigation modelling has included assessments of the positive impact on agriculture sector greenhouse gas (GHG) and ammonia emissions of increasing the proportion of managed livestock manures redirected to anaerobic digestion as envisaged in recent reports produced by Queen’s University Belfast, Action Renewables and KPMG on the potential for development of a biomethane industry in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I recently met the Ulster Farmers Union to discuss the benefits of a growing sustainable biomethane sector. In addition, my department has engaged directly with farmers through on farm CAFRE slurry management events in January 2024 and with the broader industry. Feedback from stakeholders recognises the benefits of biomethane production in reducing both our carbon footprint and excess nutrients.
My department also delivered a Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) in 2023 on the Sustainable Utilisation of Livestock Slurry (SULS). As part of this project, suppliers had direct engagement with farmers and issued surveys to garner feedback on the supply and management of slurry as a feedstock for anaerobic digestion to produce biomethane.
Ongoing Climate Action Plan mitigation modelling has included assessments of the positive impact on agriculture sector greenhouse gas (GHG) and ammonia emissions of increasing the proportion of managed livestock manures redirected to anaerobic digestion as envisaged in recent reports produced by Queen’s University Belfast, Action Renewables and KPMG on the potential for development of a biomethane industry in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012460%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402950"}},{"id":"402949","reference":"AQW 12459/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to extend safe access zones in areas with continued protesting.","answerText":"As operators of premises where abortions services are provided, Health and Social Care Trusts are empowered under Assembly legislation to determine the size of Safe Access Zones appropriate to each location, any may extend this up to a maximum of 250 metres from entry and exits points if they consider it appropriate for the purpose of allowing safe access to “protected persons”.\n\nAs outlined in my response to AQW 10680/22-27, Safe Access Zones continue to operate effectively across all premises in line with Assembly legislation to protect those accessing abortion services and staff working at those locations. In light of this, I am not aware of any Trust plans to extend Safe Access Zones at this time.","answerHtml":"As operators of premises where abortions services are provided, Health and Social Care Trusts are empowered under Assembly legislation to determine the size of Safe Access Zones appropriate to each location, any may extend this up to a maximum of 250 metres from entry and exits points if they consider it appropriate for the purpose of allowing safe access to “protected persons”.
As outlined in my response to AQW 10680/22-27, Safe Access Zones continue to operate effectively across all premises in line with Assembly legislation to protect those accessing abortion services and staff working at those locations. In light of this, I am not aware of any Trust plans to extend Safe Access Zones at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012459%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402949"}},{"id":"402948","reference":"AQW 12458/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-10","answered":"2024-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people placed in care homes due to a lack of an available home care package in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency; and (ii) the average cost of each stay.","answerText":"The Department does not hold this information centrally and this was requested from HSC Trusts. Their responses are detailed below.\n\n(i) the number of people placed in care homes due to a lack of an available home care package in each of the last five years\n\nHSC Trust\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nBelfast\t794\t892\t1196\t704\t443\nNorthern\t31\t68\t246\t442\t378\nSouth Eastern\t98\t25\t178\t273\t169\nWestern\t37\t24\t43\t51\t68\n\nSouthern HSC Trust provided the figure of 357 people, which is their total from 01/01/2021 to 29/03/2024.\n\n(ii) average cost of each stay\n\nHSC Trust\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t2023/24\nNorthern\t£3,986\t£5,370\t£6,503\t£6,790\t£6,251\nSouth Eastern\t£4,340\t£5,601\t£6,386\t£5,968\t£4,315\nWestern\t£11,964\t£21,226\t£12,515\t£18,911\t£14,135\n\nSouthern HSC Trust provided the figure of £13,089, which is the average over the timeframe from 01/01/2021 to 29/03/2024.\n\nBelfast HSC Trust are unable to provide this information.\n\nDomiciliary care services continue to experience significant pressures across the region, and there are a range of factors currently impacting upon delivery of this service; this includes significant retention issues in regard to domiciliary care staff.\n\nWhere delivery of care packages has been negatively impacted due to challenges regarding capacity, Trusts have in place mitigation measures to try to ensure services continue to be provided.\n\nMy Department remains committed to the provision of a high quality domiciliary care service, and will continue to work alongside Trusts and independent sector providers to maintain and support service provision.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold this information centrally and this was requested from HSC Trusts. Their responses are detailed below.
(i) the number of people placed in care homes due to a lack of an available home care package in each of the last five years
| HSC Trust | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Belfast | 794 | 892 | 1196 | 704 | 443 |
| Northern | 31 | 68 | 246 | 442 | 378 |
| South Eastern | 98 | 25 | 178 | 273 | 169 |
| Western | 37 | 24 | 43 | 51 | 68 |
Southern HSC Trust provided the figure of 357 people, which is their total from 01/01/2021 to 29/03/2024.
(ii) average cost of each stay
| HSC Trust | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Northern | £3,986 | £5,370 | £6,503 | £6,790 | £6,251 |
| South Eastern | £4,340 | £5,601 | £6,386 | £5,968 | £4,315 |
| Western | £11,964 | £21,226 | £12,515 | £18,911 | £14,135 |
Southern HSC Trust provided the figure of £13,089, which is the average over the timeframe from 01/01/2021 to 29/03/2024.
Belfast HSC Trust are unable to provide this information.
Domiciliary care services continue to experience significant pressures across the region, and there are a range of factors currently impacting upon delivery of this service; this includes significant retention issues in regard to domiciliary care staff.
Where delivery of care packages has been negatively impacted due to challenges regarding capacity, Trusts have in place mitigation measures to try to ensure services continue to be provided.
My Department remains committed to the provision of a high quality domiciliary care service, and will continue to work alongside Trusts and independent sector providers to maintain and support service provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012458%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402948"}},{"id":"403927","reference":"AQO 521/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-23","answerBy":"2024-06-03","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the cross-departmental Task and Finish Group on Childcare.","answerText":"As the member will be aware I made a written Ministerial Statement to this Assembly on 23rd May setting out a package of early learning and childcare measures I intend to introduce in the 2024/2025 financial year.\n\nThe cross-departmental Early Learning and Childcare Task and Finish Group has played an important role in supporting the development of these measures for which I am grateful. The Group includes representatives from the departments of Economy, Health, Finance, Communities and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Specialist advice is also provided by economists and statisticians.\n\nThe package of measures I have constructed is designed to stabilise and support expansion of the early learning and childcare sector, over time, offer all children 22.5 hours per week pre-school provision, reduce the costs of childcare for working parents and build the evidence base necessary to inform development of the longer-term strategy. It is an ambitious programme which will ease current pressures on parents and providers and lay a firm foundation for the future. The measures will be taken forward as a package to achieve maximum impact and ensure a balanced approach across the sector as a whole.\n\nThe focus now is on implementation. Some elements of the package can progress relatively quickly while others will require more detailed co-design with stakeholders, IT infrastructure development and testing. Business case approvals will also be required for the new initiatives. The Task and Finish group will play a vital role in this next phase of the work.","answerHtml":"As the member will be aware I made a written Ministerial Statement to this Assembly on 23rd May setting out a package of early learning and childcare measures I intend to introduce in the 2024/2025 financial year.
The cross-departmental Early Learning and Childcare Task and Finish Group has played an important role in supporting the development of these measures for which I am grateful. The Group includes representatives from the departments of Economy, Health, Finance, Communities and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Specialist advice is also provided by economists and statisticians.
The package of measures I have constructed is designed to stabilise and support expansion of the early learning and childcare sector, over time, offer all children 22.5 hours per week pre-school provision, reduce the costs of childcare for working parents and build the evidence base necessary to inform development of the longer-term strategy. It is an ambitious programme which will ease current pressures on parents and providers and lay a firm foundation for the future. The measures will be taken forward as a package to achieve maximum impact and ensure a balanced approach across the sector as a whole.
The focus now is on implementation. Some elements of the package can progress relatively quickly while others will require more detailed co-design with stakeholders, IT infrastructure development and testing. Business case approvals will also be required for the new initiatives. The Task and Finish group will play a vital role in this next phase of the work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=403927","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=403927"}},{"id":"402744","reference":"AQW 12381/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-22","answerBy":"2024-06-07","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) how Northern Ireland’s reputation as a prime golfing destination is being used to promote tourism here; and (ii) what resources are being provided to increase the quality of this asset further.","answerText":"The North is widely regarded as one of the best golfing destinations in the world, particularly following the successful hosting of The Open Championship in Portrush in 2019.\n\nIn 2023 the value of golf tourism to the North was an estimated £68 million with over 29,000 visitors travelling here specifically to play golf. This has been achieved through the promotion of golf tourism at trade shows across the globe and directly to the consumer through a wide range of marketing channels.\n\nOver the past 12 months Tourism NI (TNI), working in partnership with Tourism Ireland, has undertaken consumer marketing including digital, print and in-person promotion across all of its target markets.\n\nTNI also regularly deliver consumer campaigns in partnership with major online golf travel agencies such as YourGolfTravel, GolfNow and GolfBreaks to encourage golfers to take short breaks here.\n\nThe agencies’ golf teams are regularly present on promotional stands at USPGA and DP World Tour events with a focus on directly promoting golf across Ireland to golfing audiences in the US, Britain, Europe and UAE markets, as well as attending targeted trade shows in the same markets. The agencies are also joined by representatives from local golf clubs, tour operators and accommodation providers on the promotional stands.\n\nGolf influencers with large social media followings are also used to promote both golf and the wider destination directly to golfing audiences in the USA, Britain, and Europe.\n\nIn October 2023, TNI hosted the International Association of Golf Tour Operators “Golf in Ireland” Convention at The Ebrington Hotel in Derry, pairing forty international golf tour operators with forty local golf partners, as part of a 3-day familiarisation trip.\n\nFinally, my Department has provided TNI with the funding necessary to secure the return of the Irish Open to Royal County Down this year and the 153rd Open Championship at Portrush next year. Hosting these events will further promote the North as a world class golfing destination to a large global audience.","answerHtml":"The North is widely regarded as one of the best golfing destinations in the world, particularly following the successful hosting of The Open Championship in Portrush in 2019.
In 2023 the value of golf tourism to the North was an estimated £68 million with over 29,000 visitors travelling here specifically to play golf. This has been achieved through the promotion of golf tourism at trade shows across the globe and directly to the consumer through a wide range of marketing channels.
Over the past 12 months Tourism NI (TNI), working in partnership with Tourism Ireland, has undertaken consumer marketing including digital, print and in-person promotion across all of its target markets.
TNI also regularly deliver consumer campaigns in partnership with major online golf travel agencies such as YourGolfTravel, GolfNow and GolfBreaks to encourage golfers to take short breaks here.
The agencies’ golf teams are regularly present on promotional stands at USPGA and DP World Tour events with a focus on directly promoting golf across Ireland to golfing audiences in the US, Britain, Europe and UAE markets, as well as attending targeted trade shows in the same markets. The agencies are also joined by representatives from local golf clubs, tour operators and accommodation providers on the promotional stands.
Golf influencers with large social media followings are also used to promote both golf and the wider destination directly to golfing audiences in the USA, Britain, and Europe.
In October 2023, TNI hosted the International Association of Golf Tour Operators “Golf in Ireland” Convention at The Ebrington Hotel in Derry, pairing forty international golf tour operators with forty local golf partners, as part of a 3-day familiarisation trip.
Finally, my Department has provided TNI with the funding necessary to secure the return of the Irish Open to Royal County Down this year and the 153rd Open Championship at Portrush next year. Hosting these events will further promote the North as a world class golfing destination to a large global audience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012381%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402744","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402744"}},{"id":"402743","reference":"AQW 12380/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-22","answerBy":"2024-06-07","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of student accommodation availability in and around the Coleraine area; and (ii) to detail any plans she has to encourage the increase of this provision.","answerText":"I am aware of increasing challenges in relation to the availability of private student accommodation in Coleraine.\n\nUlster University has been working to implement mitigations where possible. Last year the University leased 184 bedspaces, located adjacent to the campus and in Portstewart, and intends extend this by a further 30 bedspaces for September 2024. The University continues to explore additional opportunities to increase provision of student accommodation in the Coleraine campus area.","answerHtml":"I am aware of increasing challenges in relation to the availability of private student accommodation in Coleraine.
Ulster University has been working to implement mitigations where possible. Last year the University leased 184 bedspaces, located adjacent to the campus and in Portstewart, and intends extend this by a further 30 bedspaces for September 2024. The University continues to explore additional opportunities to increase provision of student accommodation in the Coleraine campus area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012380%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402743"}},{"id":"402742","reference":"AQW 12379/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-22","answerBy":"2024-06-07","answered":"2024-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the work he is doing to protect the supply of vital veterinary medicines.","answerText":"The Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024 came into force on 12 April 2024, conferring powers upon the Secretary of State in relation to Annex 2 of the Windsor Framework, which includes Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on veterinary medicinal products. As the Secretary of State has not exercised discretion with respect to this regulation, it is now under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).\n\nAs Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, I am committed to do whatever is in my power as Minister to ensure that a satisfactory solution is found by the end of the grace period on 31 December 2025.\n\nOn becoming Minister I have discussed the veterinary medicines issue with various groups such as the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the NI Grain Trade Association, as well as representatives from the Dairy Council, Logistics NI and Ulster Farmers Union and developed an understanding of the issues for our future supply of veterinary medicines.\n\nI am a member of the Veterinary Medicines Working Group (VMWG), which aims to help find and advise the UK Government on practical solutions on the issue of future supply and access to veterinary medicines.\n\nI have written to Minister Baker, Minister of State for Northern Ireland to query the solution of a UK/EU veterinary agreement.\n\nI participated in the private members motion debate in the Assembly following the House of Lords Windsor Framework Sub-Committee’s inquiry into veterinary medicines and the Windsor Framework and I gave my commitment to speak with Minister Baker further on this subject and to write to the UK Government’s Windsor Framework Taskforce in an attempt to assist with bringing forward proposals to the UK Government and European Union authorities that would positively resolve the issues surrounding the supply of veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.\n\nI receive regular updates from my officials who work closely with Veterinary Medicines Directorate, the competent UK authority for veterinary medicines and an agency of Defra.","answerHtml":"The Windsor Framework (Implementation) Regulations 2024 came into force on 12 April 2024, conferring powers upon the Secretary of State in relation to Annex 2 of the Windsor Framework, which includes Regulation (EU) 2019/6 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 11 December 2018 on veterinary medicinal products. As the Secretary of State has not exercised discretion with respect to this regulation, it is now under the direction and control of the Secretary of State for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra).
As Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, I am committed to do whatever is in my power as Minister to ensure that a satisfactory solution is found by the end of the grace period on 31 December 2025.
On becoming Minister I have discussed the veterinary medicines issue with various groups such as the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the NI Grain Trade Association, as well as representatives from the Dairy Council, Logistics NI and Ulster Farmers Union and developed an understanding of the issues for our future supply of veterinary medicines.
I am a member of the Veterinary Medicines Working Group (VMWG), which aims to help find and advise the UK Government on practical solutions on the issue of future supply and access to veterinary medicines.
I have written to Minister Baker, Minister of State for Northern Ireland to query the solution of a UK/EU veterinary agreement.
I participated in the private members motion debate in the Assembly following the House of Lords Windsor Framework Sub-Committee’s inquiry into veterinary medicines and the Windsor Framework and I gave my commitment to speak with Minister Baker further on this subject and to write to the UK Government’s Windsor Framework Taskforce in an attempt to assist with bringing forward proposals to the UK Government and European Union authorities that would positively resolve the issues surrounding the supply of veterinary medicines in Northern Ireland.
I receive regular updates from my officials who work closely with Veterinary Medicines Directorate, the competent UK authority for veterinary medicines and an agency of Defra.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012379%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402742","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402742"}},{"id":"402741","reference":"AQW 12378/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-22","answerBy":"2024-06-07","answered":"2024-05-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of the pressures impacting hospitality businesses; and (ii) to detail the work she is undertaking to ease these.","answerText":"I understand the importance of the hospitality sector for both our tourism industry and the high street economy, with approximately 57,000 jobs in the accommodation and food service sector.\n\nAddressing the challenges of rising costs cuts across several areas of government, including the Department for Communities and local councils. My Department is taking steps to support businesses through delivery of the Executive’s ‘Path to Net Zero Energy’ Strategy, a key objective being to ensure that all consumers have access to essential and affordable energy. Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism and hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable, including Leaner and Greener, and Innovate Tourism.\n\nThe level of VAT is also a specific issue, and I know that the Department of Finance has repeatedly raised with the Treasury the negative impacts on hospitality of high levels of VAT.","answerHtml":"I understand the importance of the hospitality sector for both our tourism industry and the high street economy, with approximately 57,000 jobs in the accommodation and food service sector.
Addressing the challenges of rising costs cuts across several areas of government, including the Department for Communities and local councils. My Department is taking steps to support businesses through delivery of the Executive’s ‘Path to Net Zero Energy’ Strategy, a key objective being to ensure that all consumers have access to essential and affordable energy. Tourism NI provides a suite of advisory supports to help tourism and hospitality businesses reduce costs, improve productivity and be more sustainable, including Leaner and Greener, and Innovate Tourism.
The level of VAT is also a specific issue, and I know that the Department of Finance has repeatedly raised with the Treasury the negative impacts on hospitality of high levels of VAT.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012378%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402741"}},{"id":"402740","reference":"AQW 12377/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-22","answerBy":"2024-06-07","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to (i) improve pay and conditions for paid carers; and (ii) identify and support unpaid carers.","answerText":"I recognise the need for action to support the social care sector, and those working in it. It is clear that improving pay and conditions for those working in social care, and across the wider health and social care sector must be a key focus moving forward. My predecessor’s immediate priority on his return to post, was to see pay negotiations taken forward and concluded without undue delay, for health and social care workers in the statutory sector.\n\nIn recognition of the challenges facing the independent social care sector, on 22 March a £70m funding package, across a range of service provision, including domiciliary care, was announced. The purpose of this was to ensure independent sector providers had the necessary funding to meet the challenges of increases to national living wage from the beginning of April.\n\nThis funding also included an increase in the regional domiciliary care rate paid to independent sector providers increased from £18.54 to £20.01 per hour for 2024/25. Whilst any additional funding has allowed employers to offer enhanced rates of pay, and better terms and conditions, my Department has no remit to direct private companies as to the rate they pay their staff, or the terms and conditions that they offer. My officials have however written to all independent sector social care employers noting the previous Minister’s clear intent that the additional funding was to enable employers to stabilise the social care sector workforce through enhanced rates of pay, and better terms and conditions.\n\nStructures have also been established under the Social Care Fair Work Forum to consider how we could move the sector to a Real Living Wage employer base and significant work is ongoing to build the case for the additional funding that will be required to deliver this.\n\nIn addition, in recognition of the fundamental need to deliver reform and transformation in Health and Social Care, my Department has established the Adult Social Care Collaborative Forum and the Children’s Strategic Reform Board. Within these Fora, there are workstreams focused on supporting, developing, and improving the social care workforce.\n\nThe workstreams are implementing a range of measures that include:\n\nPublishing a Social Care Workforce Strategy which will set out a vision to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next 10 years. The strategy will include actions to develop career pathways, support the training and education of the workforce, and to raise the profile and recognition of the social care workforce as a skilled and competent workforce. It is anticipated that the Strategy will be published in late 2024.\n\nIn partnership with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, work is ongoing to develop the training, career, and qualification pathways for the social care workforce.\n\nIn partnership with all stakeholders’ social care campaigns are ongoing to raise the profile and recognise the significant contribution that the social care workforce provides.\n\nIn respect of support for unpaid carers, the Social Care Collaborative Forum includes a Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers NI and my Department. The workstream has been established with a workplan focused on Carers specific issues, including exploring potential opportunities to identify unpaid carers and encourage them to self-identify and seek support, and exploring how we can improve information and advice, and registration for unpaid carers.","answerHtml":"I recognise the need for action to support the social care sector, and those working in it. It is clear that improving pay and conditions for those working in social care, and across the wider health and social care sector must be a key focus moving forward. My predecessor’s immediate priority on his return to post, was to see pay negotiations taken forward and concluded without undue delay, for health and social care workers in the statutory sector.
In recognition of the challenges facing the independent social care sector, on 22 March a £70m funding package, across a range of service provision, including domiciliary care, was announced. The purpose of this was to ensure independent sector providers had the necessary funding to meet the challenges of increases to national living wage from the beginning of April.
This funding also included an increase in the regional domiciliary care rate paid to independent sector providers increased from £18.54 to £20.01 per hour for 2024/25. Whilst any additional funding has allowed employers to offer enhanced rates of pay, and better terms and conditions, my Department has no remit to direct private companies as to the rate they pay their staff, or the terms and conditions that they offer. My officials have however written to all independent sector social care employers noting the previous Minister’s clear intent that the additional funding was to enable employers to stabilise the social care sector workforce through enhanced rates of pay, and better terms and conditions.
Structures have also been established under the Social Care Fair Work Forum to consider how we could move the sector to a Real Living Wage employer base and significant work is ongoing to build the case for the additional funding that will be required to deliver this.
In addition, in recognition of the fundamental need to deliver reform and transformation in Health and Social Care, my Department has established the Adult Social Care Collaborative Forum and the Children’s Strategic Reform Board. Within these Fora, there are workstreams focused on supporting, developing, and improving the social care workforce.
The workstreams are implementing a range of measures that include:
Publishing a Social Care Workforce Strategy which will set out a vision to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next 10 years. The strategy will include actions to develop career pathways, support the training and education of the workforce, and to raise the profile and recognition of the social care workforce as a skilled and competent workforce. It is anticipated that the Strategy will be published in late 2024.
In partnership with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, work is ongoing to develop the training, career, and qualification pathways for the social care workforce.
In partnership with all stakeholders’ social care campaigns are ongoing to raise the profile and recognise the significant contribution that the social care workforce provides.
In respect of support for unpaid carers, the Social Care Collaborative Forum includes a Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers NI and my Department. The workstream has been established with a workplan focused on Carers specific issues, including exploring potential opportunities to identify unpaid carers and encourage them to self-identify and seek support, and exploring how we can improve information and advice, and registration for unpaid carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012377%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402740","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402740"}},{"id":"402549","reference":"AQW 12289/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-21","answerBy":"2024-06-06","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) what plans are in place in relation to the amalgamation of the Causeway Coastal Route and the Wild Atlantic Way; and (ii) what action she will take to ensure the Causeway Coastal Route receives an equal share of investment and resources when this amalgamation takes place.","answerText":"Tourism NI, Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland are working in partnership to deliver a €7.6m Shared Island Scheme programme to improve synergies and experiences for visitors to the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way, designed to increase connectivity and improved visitor experience encouraging international visitors to explore more widely, stay longer, and spend more. Discussions are underway in relation to extending the Wild Atlantic Way brand into the North.\n\nThe budget will be allocated on a 50/50 basis across the North and the South.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI, Failte Ireland and Tourism Ireland are working in partnership to deliver a €7.6m Shared Island Scheme programme to improve synergies and experiences for visitors to the Causeway Coastal Route and Wild Atlantic Way, designed to increase connectivity and improved visitor experience encouraging international visitors to explore more widely, stay longer, and spend more. Discussions are underway in relation to extending the Wild Atlantic Way brand into the North.
The budget will be allocated on a 50/50 basis across the North and the South.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012289%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402549","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402549"}},{"id":"402548","reference":"AQW 12288/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-21","answerBy":"2024-06-06","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 5899/22-27, (i) whether Part 5 of the Transport Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 enables his Department to financially support the purchase, conversion and running costs for wheelchair accessible taxis; and (ii) whether he will provide financial support to taxi firms and drivers to modify their cars, in order to create more wheelchair accessible taxis.","answerText":"I would advise that there is currently no policy or budget in place to provide financial support towards the purchase, conversion or running costs for wheelchair taxis under Part 5 of the Transport Act (NI) 2011.","answerHtml":"I would advise that there is currently no policy or budget in place to provide financial support towards the purchase, conversion or running costs for wheelchair taxis under Part 5 of the Transport Act (NI) 2011.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012288%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402548","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402548"}},{"id":"402547","reference":"AQW 12287/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-21","answerBy":"2024-06-06","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the actions being taken to increase the number of foster carers; and (ii) the number of foster carers in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012287%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402547","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402547"}},{"id":"402546","reference":"AQW 12286/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-21","answerBy":"2024-06-06","answered":"2024-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the work being carried out to (i) quantify; and (ii) reach those who are homeless but not in contact with any government agency or non-governmental organisation.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“(i) The Housing Executive is not in a position to provide any information to quantify the number of individuals who are homeless but not in contact with any government agency, as the Housing Executive only collects data for homeless presentations.\n\n(ii) Hidden homelessness is acknowledged in the Housing Executive ‘Homelessness Strategy 2022-27’, where it notes that it is necessary to ensure that these “hidden households” are provided with the means to access the housing and support services they may require. Through the ‘Homelessness Strategy 2022-27’ we seek to ensure that relevant actions are developed around increasing awareness alongside the development of protocols for partner public services which will be delivered in order to engage with those who are considered as hidden homeless.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive and I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“(i) The Housing Executive is not in a position to provide any information to quantify the number of individuals who are homeless but not in contact with any government agency, as the Housing Executive only collects data for homeless presentations.
(ii) Hidden homelessness is acknowledged in the Housing Executive ‘Homelessness Strategy 2022-27’, where it notes that it is necessary to ensure that these “hidden households” are provided with the means to access the housing and support services they may require. Through the ‘Homelessness Strategy 2022-27’ we seek to ensure that relevant actions are developed around increasing awareness alongside the development of protocols for partner public services which will be delivered in order to engage with those who are considered as hidden homeless.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012286%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402546"}},{"id":"402545","reference":"AQW 12285/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-21","answerBy":"2024-06-06","answered":"2024-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the work he has carried out with local councils to promote the enforcement of available processes in relation to derelict buildings.","answerText":"My Department has not carried out any such work with district councils. Much of the current legislation available to councils to deal with dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites dates back to the Victorian era and/or applies to specific geographical areas and is limited in its scope and effectiveness.\n\nIt is therefore my intention to introduce a Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly in the autumn, subject to the approval of my Executive colleagues.","answerHtml":"My Department has not carried out any such work with district councils. Much of the current legislation available to councils to deal with dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites dates back to the Victorian era and/or applies to specific geographical areas and is limited in its scope and effectiveness.
It is therefore my intention to introduce a Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly in the autumn, subject to the approval of my Executive colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012285%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402545"}},{"id":"402316","reference":"AQW 12210/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) why the Environmental Improvement Plan has not been published; and (ii) how the plan will address pollution incidents in our waterways and seas.","answerText":"(i) I am in the process of seeking Executive approval for the draft Environment Strategy and its adoption as Northern Ireland’s first Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP). I continue to work with my Executive colleagues to address any issues raised and it remains my wish that the EIP is published as soon as is practicable.\n\n(ii) The Environmental Improvement Plan contains a range of measures designed to reduce both point source and diffuse water pollution, including, for example: a review of River Basin Management plans to incorporate revised consideration of the Lough Neagh blue-green algae issues; the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme, which will provide soil analysis, risk maps and nutrient management training to farmers to reduce excess run-off of nutrients to watercourses; and, ecological modelling frameworks intended to integrate catchment management with coastal water quality.\n\nWhilst the EIP will take a strategic approach to the challenges facing our environment, collective action will be required across government, private and public sector and in the community to tackle these issues.","answerHtml":"(i) I am in the process of seeking Executive approval for the draft Environment Strategy and its adoption as Northern Ireland’s first Environmental Improvement Plan (EIP). I continue to work with my Executive colleagues to address any issues raised and it remains my wish that the EIP is published as soon as is practicable.
(ii) The Environmental Improvement Plan contains a range of measures designed to reduce both point source and diffuse water pollution, including, for example: a review of River Basin Management plans to incorporate revised consideration of the Lough Neagh blue-green algae issues; the Soil Nutrient Health Scheme, which will provide soil analysis, risk maps and nutrient management training to farmers to reduce excess run-off of nutrients to watercourses; and, ecological modelling frameworks intended to integrate catchment management with coastal water quality.
Whilst the EIP will take a strategic approach to the challenges facing our environment, collective action will be required across government, private and public sector and in the community to tackle these issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012210%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402316"}},{"id":"402315","reference":"AQW 12209/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the Royal College of General Practitioners’ 10-point plan, which aims to retain as many GPs as possible; (ii) for an update on the current number of GPs; and (iii) to detail the actions (a) taken; and (ii) planned to train, recruit and retain as many GPs as possible.","answerText":"I welcome the publication of the Royal College of General Practitioners ‘A Workforce Fit for the Future’ Retention Strategy and was pleased to speak at its recent launch. I recognise the ongoing challenges facing General Practice that are set out in the strategy and the impact of the increasing demand and workload pressures on GPs that it highlights.\n\nMy Department has taken, and will continue to focus on, actions that will help address a number of the workforce and workload challenges and recommendations set out in the Retention Strategy. This includes the recently agreed 2024/25 General Medical Services (GMS) contract which is also an important step forward to achieving greater stability in General Practice. The contract makes significant progress against key aims identified by GPs in their negotiations, including provision of £5million dedicated to GP indemnity, as an interim measure, pending identification of the long-term model for future provision.\n\nWe are focussing on building the GP workforce through the Attract, Recruit and Retain Scheme, the GP Retainer Scheme and the GP Induction and Refresher Scheme, and increasing the number of GP training places to its current level of 121. We are also taking steps to increase the range of healthcare professionals working in primary care through the roll out of Multi-disciplinary Teams (MDTs) and the introduction of new roles such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners, additional General Practice Nurses and General Practice Pharmacists.\n\nIn terms of the GP Fellowship Scheme, we are considering how the Scheme might be further developed, subject to available funding, to extend the range and scope of Fellowship placement opportunities and provide for Educational Bursaries to be available for all Fellows.\n\nWith regard to the current number of GPs, this information is published on the Business Services Organisation website: General Medical Services Statistics - Business Services Organisation (BSO) Website (hscni.net)\n\nMy Department is committed to working to identify solutions to the issues facing General Practice, including further roll out of MDTs, exploring digital solutions and working with GPs and HSC Trusts to promote stability in General Medical Services. However, progress on initiatives will be constrained by the availability of the necessary funding to support this.\n\nRegrettably, the 2024-25 Budget outcome for my Department was significantly less than what we required and has resulted in 2.3% less funding in 2024-25 than we spent in 2023-24. Health will be facing significant budgetary pressures in 2024-25 with some extremely difficult decisions required to manage within the budget allocated.","answerHtml":"I welcome the publication of the Royal College of General Practitioners ‘A Workforce Fit for the Future’ Retention Strategy and was pleased to speak at its recent launch. I recognise the ongoing challenges facing General Practice that are set out in the strategy and the impact of the increasing demand and workload pressures on GPs that it highlights.
My Department has taken, and will continue to focus on, actions that will help address a number of the workforce and workload challenges and recommendations set out in the Retention Strategy. This includes the recently agreed 2024/25 General Medical Services (GMS) contract which is also an important step forward to achieving greater stability in General Practice. The contract makes significant progress against key aims identified by GPs in their negotiations, including provision of £5million dedicated to GP indemnity, as an interim measure, pending identification of the long-term model for future provision.
We are focussing on building the GP workforce through the Attract, Recruit and Retain Scheme, the GP Retainer Scheme and the GP Induction and Refresher Scheme, and increasing the number of GP training places to its current level of 121. We are also taking steps to increase the range of healthcare professionals working in primary care through the roll out of Multi-disciplinary Teams (MDTs) and the introduction of new roles such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners, additional General Practice Nurses and General Practice Pharmacists.
In terms of the GP Fellowship Scheme, we are considering how the Scheme might be further developed, subject to available funding, to extend the range and scope of Fellowship placement opportunities and provide for Educational Bursaries to be available for all Fellows.
With regard to the current number of GPs, this information is published on the Business Services Organisation website: General Medical Services Statistics - Business Services Organisation (BSO) Website (hscni.net)
My Department is committed to working to identify solutions to the issues facing General Practice, including further roll out of MDTs, exploring digital solutions and working with GPs and HSC Trusts to promote stability in General Medical Services. However, progress on initiatives will be constrained by the availability of the necessary funding to support this.
Regrettably, the 2024-25 Budget outcome for my Department was significantly less than what we required and has resulted in 2.3% less funding in 2024-25 than we spent in 2023-24. Health will be facing significant budgetary pressures in 2024-25 with some extremely difficult decisions required to manage within the budget allocated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012209%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402315"}},{"id":"402314","reference":"AQW 12208/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 10181/22-27, to detail how this impacts (i) work planned at Dominican College, Portstewart; and (ii) the proposed amalgamation of Dunluce College, Coleraine College and North Coast Integrated College.","answerText":"Due to the constrained capital budget position and the significant pressure in relation to Special Educational Needs, funding is necessarily being targeted to meet contractual commitments, keep schools open, pupils safe and provide education access for the most vulnerable. Other projects are being progressed in line with available budget.\n\nThe design of the agreed option for the School Enhancement Programme (SEP) project at Dominican College is currently at RIBA Stage 2, with the business case in development.\n\nBudget is available to take the project through the remaining planning and design stages up to pre-tender stage. A decision to release to tender will be taken based on the budget position at that time.\n\nIn relation to the new Causeway Academy, I am advised that the Education Authority has initiated a project to locate the three schools onto a single site by September 2026, subject to available funding. Planning for a new build school will only commence should the project be included in a future Major Works Capital announcement.","answerHtml":"Due to the constrained capital budget position and the significant pressure in relation to Special Educational Needs, funding is necessarily being targeted to meet contractual commitments, keep schools open, pupils safe and provide education access for the most vulnerable. Other projects are being progressed in line with available budget.
The design of the agreed option for the School Enhancement Programme (SEP) project at Dominican College is currently at RIBA Stage 2, with the business case in development.
Budget is available to take the project through the remaining planning and design stages up to pre-tender stage. A decision to release to tender will be taken based on the budget position at that time.
In relation to the new Causeway Academy, I am advised that the Education Authority has initiated a project to locate the three schools onto a single site by September 2026, subject to available funding. Planning for a new build school will only commence should the project be included in a future Major Works Capital announcement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012208%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402314"}},{"id":"402313","reference":"AQW 12207/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the mental health support available for farmers and agricultural workers, including those who have suffered animal culls.","answerText":"Mental health support in Northern Ireland is available to anyone who needs it. It is recognised that the farming community is particularly susceptible to poor health and wellbeing, partly driven by the wide demands impacting on farmers across a range of social and economic factors. They often work long and anti-social hours which can lead to social isolation and often have difficulty accessing traditional health care services. I’m also acutely mindful of the pressures and disruptions a positive Bovine TB reading can bring, both to the individual as well as the wider family unit.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) has supported Rural Support in delivering a range of services to help promote positive mental health among isolated rural dwellers, farmers and farm families across the region. These include:\n\nConducting information sessions to promote positive mental health, encourage farmers and rural dwellers to seek help and link with other support services;\n\nTraining for rural support staff and volunteers – to support, strengthen and build skills in mentors working on the rural support programme through coaching and skills development; and\n\nMentors providing one-to-one support to individuals experiencing financial distress and where appropriate signposting to other services. The team of mentors work closely with the Health and Social Care Trusts, Healthy Living Centres, Farm Family Health Checks and Rural GPs.\n\nRural Support’s Life Beyond programme provides support to farming families who have lost someone. It recognises that as well as the grief and trauma of the loss, there is also an added stress on the farm business, its day-to-day management and long-term plans.\n\nThe PHA also works in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to develop and co-fund the Farm Families Heath Checks (FFHC) Programme. The overall aim of the FFHC Programme is to improve the health and social wellbeing of rural farmers and farm families in Northern Ireland by increasing local access to health screening services, by providing health-related advice and information and to signpost to existing services for further advice and support.","answerHtml":"Mental health support in Northern Ireland is available to anyone who needs it. It is recognised that the farming community is particularly susceptible to poor health and wellbeing, partly driven by the wide demands impacting on farmers across a range of social and economic factors. They often work long and anti-social hours which can lead to social isolation and often have difficulty accessing traditional health care services. I’m also acutely mindful of the pressures and disruptions a positive Bovine TB reading can bring, both to the individual as well as the wider family unit.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) has supported Rural Support in delivering a range of services to help promote positive mental health among isolated rural dwellers, farmers and farm families across the region. These include:
Conducting information sessions to promote positive mental health, encourage farmers and rural dwellers to seek help and link with other support services;
Training for rural support staff and volunteers – to support, strengthen and build skills in mentors working on the rural support programme through coaching and skills development; and
Mentors providing one-to-one support to individuals experiencing financial distress and where appropriate signposting to other services. The team of mentors work closely with the Health and Social Care Trusts, Healthy Living Centres, Farm Family Health Checks and Rural GPs.
Rural Support’s Life Beyond programme provides support to farming families who have lost someone. It recognises that as well as the grief and trauma of the loss, there is also an added stress on the farm business, its day-to-day management and long-term plans.
The PHA also works in partnership with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) to develop and co-fund the Farm Families Heath Checks (FFHC) Programme. The overall aim of the FFHC Programme is to improve the health and social wellbeing of rural farmers and farm families in Northern Ireland by increasing local access to health screening services, by providing health-related advice and information and to signpost to existing services for further advice and support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012207%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402313"}},{"id":"402312","reference":"AQW 12206/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-20","answerBy":"2024-06-05","answered":"2024-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail when a Programme for Government will be published.","answerText":"We are working at pace to agree and publish a draft Programme for Government.\n\nThe exact timing of consultation and launch is under consideration as a result of a General Election having been called for the 4th of July.","answerHtml":"We are working at pace to agree and publish a draft Programme for Government.
The exact timing of consultation and launch is under consideration as a result of a General Election having been called for the 4th of July.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402312"}},{"id":"401490","reference":"AQW 11880/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-14","answerBy":"2024-05-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the terms of the offer from private healthcare providers to alleviate waiting lists in relation to percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy insertion; and (ii) whether he is considering this offer to ensure the 94 children waiting on this procedure are treated as soon as possible.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011880%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401490"}},{"id":"401489","reference":"AQW 11879/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-14","answerBy":"2024-05-30","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 10274/22-27, (i) how he is liaising with local councils in relation to animal welfare updates; and (ii) how his Department assesses whether animal welfare delivery in local council areas adheres to the legislation set by his Department.","answerText":"My department has regular engagement with local councils, and this facilitates a continuous dialogue on animal welfare related matters.\n\nThe Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 enables local councils to appoint individuals to enforce this legislation, as it relates to non-farmed animals. My department has no remit to dictate how councils fulfil this requirement and to do so would undermine their legal and operational authority.","answerHtml":"My department has regular engagement with local councils, and this facilitates a continuous dialogue on animal welfare related matters.
The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 enables local councils to appoint individuals to enforce this legislation, as it relates to non-farmed animals. My department has no remit to dictate how councils fulfil this requirement and to do so would undermine their legal and operational authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011879%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401489"}},{"id":"401488","reference":"AQW 11878/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-14","answerBy":"2024-05-30","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the pathway and timeframes for referring children with delayed developmental milestones; (ii) the impact on children’s long-term development if assessment or treatment is delayed; and (iii) the redress for parents if their child has not received the standard pathway within the appropriate timeframe.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011878%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401488"}},{"id":"401487","reference":"AQW 11877/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-14","answerBy":"2024-05-30","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 5593/22-27, for an update on his way forward for Happy Health Minds and School Holiday Food Grant Payments.","answerText":"Healthy Happy Minds was a pilot which ended in March 2023. The overall outcome of the post project evaluation was positive, however, there is no central funded service for primary school counselling services.\n\nThe challenging financial context across the education system means that budgets and investments are severely constrained. As with all services that are not statutory, investment is unfortunately limited to budget availability.\n\nRingfenced funding for School Holiday Food Grant payments ceased in 2023 and the payments were therefore discontinued.\n\nFood poverty is an issue for many low-income families that that affects all age groups across every day of the year. While tackling “holiday hunger” is an important aspect of this, I believe it is for the Executive to seek to address food poverty across all our society through a wider and more holistic approach within the context of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.","answerHtml":"Healthy Happy Minds was a pilot which ended in March 2023. The overall outcome of the post project evaluation was positive, however, there is no central funded service for primary school counselling services.
The challenging financial context across the education system means that budgets and investments are severely constrained. As with all services that are not statutory, investment is unfortunately limited to budget availability.
Ringfenced funding for School Holiday Food Grant payments ceased in 2023 and the payments were therefore discontinued.
Food poverty is an issue for many low-income families that that affects all age groups across every day of the year. While tackling “holiday hunger” is an important aspect of this, I believe it is for the Executive to seek to address food poverty across all our society through a wider and more holistic approach within the context of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011877%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401487"}},{"id":"401486","reference":"AQW 11876/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-14","answerBy":"2024-05-30","answered":"2024-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail his plans to make funding applications simpler and more accessible for farmers and rural communities.","answerText":"Applications developed throughout my department are unique for each individual purpose and I am committed to making them as straightforward as possible for our customers. Officials balance this objective, when developing funding applications, against the requirement to gather the minimum amount of information to verify eligibility, identify need and to prevent or detect fraud.\n\nDigital platforms are used as our primary application method as this helps to streamline the application process and includes the function to pre-populate data for ease of customer reference. My Department also continues to provide helpdesk services and digital support to make online application access as simple and smooth as possible.\n\nAt my request simplification, accessibility and bureaucracy of the future Farm Support and Development Programme will be placed as a standing item on the Agricultural Policy Stakeholder Group Agenda with each scheme to be tested against a set of criteria, which is to be agreed following consultation with the Agricultural Policy Stakeholder Group, to ensure that the initiatives, packages and measures are simple and easy to access.","answerHtml":"Applications developed throughout my department are unique for each individual purpose and I am committed to making them as straightforward as possible for our customers. Officials balance this objective, when developing funding applications, against the requirement to gather the minimum amount of information to verify eligibility, identify need and to prevent or detect fraud.
Digital platforms are used as our primary application method as this helps to streamline the application process and includes the function to pre-populate data for ease of customer reference. My Department also continues to provide helpdesk services and digital support to make online application access as simple and smooth as possible.
At my request simplification, accessibility and bureaucracy of the future Farm Support and Development Programme will be placed as a standing item on the Agricultural Policy Stakeholder Group Agenda with each scheme to be tested against a set of criteria, which is to be agreed following consultation with the Agricultural Policy Stakeholder Group, to ensure that the initiatives, packages and measures are simple and easy to access.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011876%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401486","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401486"}},{"id":"401318","reference":"AQW 11804/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-13","answerBy":"2024-05-29","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the cross-Executive Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime programme; (ii) to detail any engagement she has had with Executive colleagues in relation to the importance of the outcomes of the programme; (iii) how the actions being taken in this programme are reducing paramilitarism; and (iv) whether any assessment has been made on community safety since the programme began.","answerText":"The Programme is now into its second phase (2021-2025) and has evolved into a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to violence and harm reduction. Utilising a multi-agency approach to violence reduction, the Programme has been able to document and evidence the extent and nature of the problem. This helps to ensure that responses are evidence-based and effective. The Programme has developed a unique, robust framework for measuring progress across its c100 interventions, measuring positive change across 18 measures. Significant and positive outcomes are being seen across multiple domains. This includes major disruptions to criminal groups, increases in protective factors for those vulnerable to criminal exploitation and measurable reductions in risk, intent to engage in violence, and complex trauma. There are also less obvious but equally important outcomes such as increase collaboration across the public sector and within the Executive. The Programme’s work is also driving systems change in relation to trauma informed approaches and child criminal exploitation. Many more findings are detailed by the Independent Reporting Commission in their 6th report (December 2023), the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee (February 2024) and in an Independent Peer Review (March 2024) of the Programme.\n\nThere is unfortunately a persistent misconception that the Programme is focussed only on Justice-related issues. The issues the Programme works to address may be most visible in the justice space, but they are relevant to all aspects of work undertaken by the Executive and support, particularly in the form of early intervention across the Executive, is needed to address the issue of paramilitarism and crime.\n\nThe Programme’s governance structures reflect that this is a truly whole of government approach, which allows engagement across the Executive. The Political Advisory Group represents views of all the parties in the Executive. A Sponsor Group, meeting regularly, comprising of senior leads from each department (and chaired by HOCS) provides the Programme with senior leadership and links back to individual Departments and their Ministers.\n\nThrough robust evaluation, projects are demonstrating how they are making a difference in dealing with the harm in the here and now as well as helping to break the cycle of harm by building individual and community resilience. Some examples of impact include:\n\nover 1200 victims of extreme paramilitary violence supported through bespoke projects. This includes young people supported in multiple ways: through youth work, including in two hospital emergency departments, and a multi-agency project, individuals supported through a bespoke project for victims of paramilitary violence and those signposted through multiple projects;\n\nHundreds of boys and young men at risk of paramilitary harm and/or involvement were supported through social work and bespoke mentoring. This project promotes life and social skills development, and also offers bespoke mental health and substance use support. Clients find improvements in their mental health, wellbeing, drugs, alcohol, use of time and offending behaviours. There has been an increase in the ability of these young men to live a crime free life, with 93% noting the support has helped them resist negative influences with the community.\n\nThere is a downward trend (seen in multiple data sources) in the number of intimidations and in the types of paramilitary activity that cause the highest harm, including murder and violent assaults and shootings;\n\n13,000 individuals have been involved in place-based initiatives; with young people taking part in a project there was a reduction from 43% to 3% in intent to engage in violence, with PTSD reducing by 23% in young people and 39% in women; and\n\nCommunities in Transition projects provide an opportunity for people in communities to get involved in community life, empowering people and groups to take part in local programmes that have a positive impact on themselves and their community. This has included tens of thousands of participants in social action projects, volunteering and community events.\n\niv)‘Community safety’ tends to embrace a much wider policy remit that examines crime type trends and interventions aimed at addressing a variety of issues, including: reducing ASB; improving awareness of cyber-crime; addressing hate crime; highlighting risk-taking behaviour; tacking domestic violence; youth diversionary work; and increasing confidence in the PSNI. No specific assessment of the impact the Programme has had on improving community safety has been undertaken, however, in working to implement a recent recommendation from Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland (CJINI) - that the Department should bring forward a new community safety vision, strategy and action plan for delivery - it is anticipated that clear links will be made to the overarching aims of the EPPOC; not least as improving community safety across NI requires the same whole of Government response as needed to tackle the scourge of paramilitarism and organised crime affecting our society.","answerHtml":"The Programme is now into its second phase (2021-2025) and has evolved into a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to violence and harm reduction. Utilising a multi-agency approach to violence reduction, the Programme has been able to document and evidence the extent and nature of the problem. This helps to ensure that responses are evidence-based and effective. The Programme has developed a unique, robust framework for measuring progress across its c100 interventions, measuring positive change across 18 measures. Significant and positive outcomes are being seen across multiple domains. This includes major disruptions to criminal groups, increases in protective factors for those vulnerable to criminal exploitation and measurable reductions in risk, intent to engage in violence, and complex trauma. There are also less obvious but equally important outcomes such as increase collaboration across the public sector and within the Executive. The Programme’s work is also driving systems change in relation to trauma informed approaches and child criminal exploitation. Many more findings are detailed by the Independent Reporting Commission in their 6th report (December 2023), the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee (February 2024) and in an Independent Peer Review (March 2024) of the Programme.
There is unfortunately a persistent misconception that the Programme is focussed only on Justice-related issues. The issues the Programme works to address may be most visible in the justice space, but they are relevant to all aspects of work undertaken by the Executive and support, particularly in the form of early intervention across the Executive, is needed to address the issue of paramilitarism and crime.
The Programme’s governance structures reflect that this is a truly whole of government approach, which allows engagement across the Executive. The Political Advisory Group represents views of all the parties in the Executive. A Sponsor Group, meeting regularly, comprising of senior leads from each department (and chaired by HOCS) provides the Programme with senior leadership and links back to individual Departments and their Ministers.
Through robust evaluation, projects are demonstrating how they are making a difference in dealing with the harm in the here and now as well as helping to break the cycle of harm by building individual and community resilience. Some examples of impact include:
over 1200 victims of extreme paramilitary violence supported through bespoke projects. This includes young people supported in multiple ways: through youth work, including in two hospital emergency departments, and a multi-agency project, individuals supported through a bespoke project for victims of paramilitary violence and those signposted through multiple projects;
Hundreds of boys and young men at risk of paramilitary harm and/or involvement were supported through social work and bespoke mentoring. This project promotes life and social skills development, and also offers bespoke mental health and substance use support. Clients find improvements in their mental health, wellbeing, drugs, alcohol, use of time and offending behaviours. There has been an increase in the ability of these young men to live a crime free life, with 93% noting the support has helped them resist negative influences with the community.
There is a downward trend (seen in multiple data sources) in the number of intimidations and in the types of paramilitary activity that cause the highest harm, including murder and violent assaults and shootings;
13,000 individuals have been involved in place-based initiatives; with young people taking part in a project there was a reduction from 43% to 3% in intent to engage in violence, with PTSD reducing by 23% in young people and 39% in women; and
Communities in Transition projects provide an opportunity for people in communities to get involved in community life, empowering people and groups to take part in local programmes that have a positive impact on themselves and their community. This has included tens of thousands of participants in social action projects, volunteering and community events.
iv)‘Community safety’ tends to embrace a much wider policy remit that examines crime type trends and interventions aimed at addressing a variety of issues, including: reducing ASB; improving awareness of cyber-crime; addressing hate crime; highlighting risk-taking behaviour; tacking domestic violence; youth diversionary work; and increasing confidence in the PSNI. No specific assessment of the impact the Programme has had on improving community safety has been undertaken, however, in working to implement a recent recommendation from Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland (CJINI) - that the Department should bring forward a new community safety vision, strategy and action plan for delivery - it is anticipated that clear links will be made to the overarching aims of the EPPOC; not least as improving community safety across NI requires the same whole of Government response as needed to tackle the scourge of paramilitarism and organised crime affecting our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011804%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401318"}},{"id":"401317","reference":"AQW 11803/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-13","answerBy":"2024-05-29","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for their assessment of whether the current structures of government are conducive to an outcome-based accountability policy approach; and (ii) to detail any plans they have to review government structures.","answerText":"An outcomes-based approach is a useful tool for developing and monitoring policy. Work done over recent years in this department with regards measuring progress in an outcomes-based way has been valuable and we intend to bring this forward.\n\nWithin the existing structures of government, there is room for Ministers and departments to adopt the tools which are most useful for their various business areas and functions.\n\nWe do want to ensure delivery of the Executive’s priorities and have asked for proposals for a delivery-style unit that would sit at the centre and work with all Ministers to provide strategic advice to the Executive as a whole.","answerHtml":"An outcomes-based approach is a useful tool for developing and monitoring policy. Work done over recent years in this department with regards measuring progress in an outcomes-based way has been valuable and we intend to bring this forward.
Within the existing structures of government, there is room for Ministers and departments to adopt the tools which are most useful for their various business areas and functions.
We do want to ensure delivery of the Executive’s priorities and have asked for proposals for a delivery-style unit that would sit at the centre and work with all Ministers to provide strategic advice to the Executive as a whole.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011803%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401317","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401317"}},{"id":"401316","reference":"AQW 11802/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-13","answerBy":"2024-05-29","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for their assessment of the need for an Executive-wide strategy on tackling drugs; and (ii) to detail any plans they have to develop such a strategy.","answerText":"(i) Following full public consultation and Executive approval, I launched Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery – A Strategic Framework to Tackle the Harm from Substance Use (2021-31) in September 2021 as Northern Ireland's new 10-year Substance Use Strategy. While health-led, this is an Executive-wide strategy which was co-produced as a specific commitment arising from the New Decade New Approach agreement and was prioritised in response to that commitment and also as a key element of the Executive’s overarching Programme for Government. It also has direct links with the Executive’s strategic framework for public health Making Life Better and with the Mental Health Strategy 2021-31.\n\n(ii) As part of the delivery of the strategy’s outcomes, I tasked the Public Health Agency and the Strategic Planning & Performance Group to co-produce a new outcomes-focused strategic service delivery plan to replace the current Alcohol & Drug Services Commissioning Framework, covering all tiers of service provision. This new Substance Use Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan will:\n\n•ensure that the population of NI have access to a continuum of service with clear pathways and step-up/step-down provision;\n\n•ensure equal access to community detoxification for alcohol and other drugs across NI;\n\n•ensure that all services are delivered in line with the UK-wide “Drug Misuse and Dependence: Guidelines on Clinical Management” and NICE Guidelines;\n\n•provide support to address the wider physical, mental health, and wellbeing needs of those in treatment, including housing, education, employment, personal finance, healthcare e.g. should be supported to stop smoking and address other physical health conditions; and\n\n•recognise the importance of co-production and strengthen joint working between the community/voluntary sector, service users and peers, and the Health & Social Care Sector.\n\nTwo other priority pieces of work are also due to report shortly – a Population Needs-Based Assessment of Substance Use and related services in the Western Health & Social Care Trust area, and an Independent Review of Inpatient Tier 4 Detoxification & Residential Rehabilitation Services across Northern Ireland. The recommendations from both reports have helped to inform the final Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan, and it is the intention that all future funding decisions around substance use related services will be based on this new commissioning framework. To date an additional £750,000 has been invested recurrently in the Strategy’s implementation. The full delivery of the strategy will be dependent on additional funding being made available going forward.","answerHtml":"(i) Following full public consultation and Executive approval, I launched Preventing Harm, Empowering Recovery – A Strategic Framework to Tackle the Harm from Substance Use (2021-31) in September 2021 as Northern Ireland's new 10-year Substance Use Strategy. While health-led, this is an Executive-wide strategy which was co-produced as a specific commitment arising from the New Decade New Approach agreement and was prioritised in response to that commitment and also as a key element of the Executive’s overarching Programme for Government. It also has direct links with the Executive’s strategic framework for public health Making Life Better and with the Mental Health Strategy 2021-31.
(ii) As part of the delivery of the strategy’s outcomes, I tasked the Public Health Agency and the Strategic Planning & Performance Group to co-produce a new outcomes-focused strategic service delivery plan to replace the current Alcohol & Drug Services Commissioning Framework, covering all tiers of service provision. This new Substance Use Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan will:
•ensure that the population of NI have access to a continuum of service with clear pathways and step-up/step-down provision;
•ensure equal access to community detoxification for alcohol and other drugs across NI;
•ensure that all services are delivered in line with the UK-wide “Drug Misuse and Dependence: Guidelines on Clinical Management” and NICE Guidelines;
•provide support to address the wider physical, mental health, and wellbeing needs of those in treatment, including housing, education, employment, personal finance, healthcare e.g. should be supported to stop smoking and address other physical health conditions; and
•recognise the importance of co-production and strengthen joint working between the community/voluntary sector, service users and peers, and the Health & Social Care Sector.
Two other priority pieces of work are also due to report shortly – a Population Needs-Based Assessment of Substance Use and related services in the Western Health & Social Care Trust area, and an Independent Review of Inpatient Tier 4 Detoxification & Residential Rehabilitation Services across Northern Ireland. The recommendations from both reports have helped to inform the final Strategic Commissioning & Implementation Plan, and it is the intention that all future funding decisions around substance use related services will be based on this new commissioning framework. To date an additional £750,000 has been invested recurrently in the Strategy’s implementation. The full delivery of the strategy will be dependent on additional funding being made available going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011802%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401316"}},{"id":"401315","reference":"AQW 11801/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-13","answerBy":"2024-05-29","answered":"2024-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the rationale for moving the responsibility of the Children's Services Co-Operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 to the Department for Education.","answerText":"The Execuitve Committee agreed in 2016 to a re-organisation of departments and the transfer of certain functions between them. The functions of The Executive Office relating to policy for Children and Young People and the Childcare Strategy, and the sponsorship of the Children’s Commissioner, were transferred to the Department of Education. The functions exercisable under the Children’s Services Co-Operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 were consequently transferred to the Department of Education as being aligned with these policy responsibilities.","answerHtml":"The Execuitve Committee agreed in 2016 to a re-organisation of departments and the transfer of certain functions between them. The functions of The Executive Office relating to policy for Children and Young People and the Childcare Strategy, and the sponsorship of the Children’s Commissioner, were transferred to the Department of Education. The functions exercisable under the Children’s Services Co-Operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 were consequently transferred to the Department of Education as being aligned with these policy responsibilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011801%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401315"}},{"id":"401314","reference":"AQW 11800/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-13","answerBy":"2024-05-29","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how she is addressing (i) community coercive control; and (ii) child criminal exploitation.","answerText":"Understanding and addressing community coercive control is a priority for the Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime (EPPOC).\n\nThe harms most commonly associated with paramilitary gangs relate to drugs, violence against the person, public order issues and shooting attacks. What is less obvious (and less obviously seen) is how paramilitary and organised crime groups negatively influence people's lives and behaviours, and how they maintain their position in communities through coercive control, intimidation and the threat of violence.\n\n‘Gatekeeping’ is one way in which paramilitary groups cause hidden harm by controlling who speaks for and to communities. Restricting access to services is an extension of gatekeeping, as is limiting the horizons of people as to how and where they go for help.\n\nAddressing this requires leadership to invoke change and enable communities to engage with the services, organisations and bodies that they want to in a way that is not dependent on gatekeepers. The aim is not to exclude anyone from having a say but to exclude those who would seek to exert coercive control from deciding who has a say.\n\nThe approach of the Executive’s Programme on paramilitarism combines robust, specialist law enforcement with projects and approaches that support individual and community resilience, and promote widespread participation and engagement. This includes: place-based community initiatives to equip particular cohorts – women, for example - with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become involved in transformational community development; capacity building through education and training for community workers to be more effective, confident, and better equipped to manage negative influences, and; initiatives led by communities on community safety, health and wellbeing, arts and culture, area regeneration, personal transition, raising aspirations of young people and a regional project to increase the use of restorative practice in non-justice settings.\n\nThe responsibility for addressing this extends beyond the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism & Organised Crime. It is incumbent upon all of us to play our part in addressing the societal shrug that often occurs around coercive control.\n\nIn relation to Child Criminal Exploitation details of this have been provided in a previous AQW 7938/22-27.","answerHtml":"Understanding and addressing community coercive control is a priority for the Executive’s Programme on Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime (EPPOC).
The harms most commonly associated with paramilitary gangs relate to drugs, violence against the person, public order issues and shooting attacks. What is less obvious (and less obviously seen) is how paramilitary and organised crime groups negatively influence people's lives and behaviours, and how they maintain their position in communities through coercive control, intimidation and the threat of violence.
‘Gatekeeping’ is one way in which paramilitary groups cause hidden harm by controlling who speaks for and to communities. Restricting access to services is an extension of gatekeeping, as is limiting the horizons of people as to how and where they go for help.
Addressing this requires leadership to invoke change and enable communities to engage with the services, organisations and bodies that they want to in a way that is not dependent on gatekeepers. The aim is not to exclude anyone from having a say but to exclude those who would seek to exert coercive control from deciding who has a say.
The approach of the Executive’s Programme on paramilitarism combines robust, specialist law enforcement with projects and approaches that support individual and community resilience, and promote widespread participation and engagement. This includes: place-based community initiatives to equip particular cohorts – women, for example - with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to become involved in transformational community development; capacity building through education and training for community workers to be more effective, confident, and better equipped to manage negative influences, and; initiatives led by communities on community safety, health and wellbeing, arts and culture, area regeneration, personal transition, raising aspirations of young people and a regional project to increase the use of restorative practice in non-justice settings.
The responsibility for addressing this extends beyond the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism & Organised Crime. It is incumbent upon all of us to play our part in addressing the societal shrug that often occurs around coercive control.
In relation to Child Criminal Exploitation details of this have been provided in a previous AQW 7938/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011800%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401314"}},{"id":"401075","reference":"AQW 11706/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-15","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the cross-departmental task and finish group which aims to bring forward recommendations to the Executive in relation to childcare provision; and (ii) when he expects these recommendations to be made to the Executive.","answerText":"The Task and Finish Group was established to bring a cross-departmental perspective to the development of an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. The Group includes representatives from the following departments: Economy, Health, Finance, Communities and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Specialist advice is also provided by economists and statisticians.\n\nThe Group’s initial focus has been on the identification and design of interim measures which could be introduced in 2024/25 to ease current pressures on parents and providers. I hope to bring recommendations to the Executive in the coming days.","answerHtml":"The Task and Finish Group was established to bring a cross-departmental perspective to the development of an Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. The Group includes representatives from the following departments: Economy, Health, Finance, Communities and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. Specialist advice is also provided by economists and statisticians.
The Group’s initial focus has been on the identification and design of interim measures which could be introduced in 2024/25 to ease current pressures on parents and providers. I hope to bring recommendations to the Executive in the coming days.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011706%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401075"}},{"id":"401074","reference":"AQW 11705/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what area of his budget the £8.5 million compensation paid out in 2022-23 to the public for damage caused by defects in the public road network is allocated from; and (ii) to detail his plans to fix the road network to prevent damage and save compensation costs.","answerText":"(i) Compensation paid to the public for damage caused by defects on the public road network is paid from my Department’s Resource budget.\n\n(ii) My Department has been operating in a difficult financial position for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. In response, my Department has had to reduce its routine road maintenance activities to a limited service, which prioritises delivery of essential services for maintaining public safety and protecting the transport network. Consequently, only the highest priority defects across the network are currently being repaired. The level of repairs that can be carried out in any financial year depends on the funding available to my Department. Until such times as sufficient funding is made available, it will not be possible to change the current level of service. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.","answerHtml":"(i) Compensation paid to the public for damage caused by defects on the public road network is paid from my Department’s Resource budget.
(ii) My Department has been operating in a difficult financial position for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. In response, my Department has had to reduce its routine road maintenance activities to a limited service, which prioritises delivery of essential services for maintaining public safety and protecting the transport network. Consequently, only the highest priority defects across the network are currently being repaired. The level of repairs that can be carried out in any financial year depends on the funding available to my Department. Until such times as sufficient funding is made available, it will not be possible to change the current level of service. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011705%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401074"}},{"id":"401073","reference":"AQW 11704/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department provides any materials or guidance to support those who choose to educate on consent and healthy relationships.","answerText":"My Department provides funding to the Council for the Curriculum, Examination and Assessment (CCEA) to provide teaching and learning resources and support materials relating to the Northern Ireland Curriculum for grant-aided schools.\n\nBetween 2018 and 2023, CCEA developed a Relationships and Sexuality Education Hub which has a range of resources for teachers to use or adapt to reflect the flexibility in our curriculum.\n\nThe Hub includes teaching materials on consent and healthy relationships. The Hub is currently undergoing a quality assurance review process and should be available to schools in the near future.","answerHtml":"My Department provides funding to the Council for the Curriculum, Examination and Assessment (CCEA) to provide teaching and learning resources and support materials relating to the Northern Ireland Curriculum for grant-aided schools.
Between 2018 and 2023, CCEA developed a Relationships and Sexuality Education Hub which has a range of resources for teachers to use or adapt to reflect the flexibility in our curriculum.
The Hub includes teaching materials on consent and healthy relationships. The Hub is currently undergoing a quality assurance review process and should be available to schools in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011704%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401073"}},{"id":"401072","reference":"AQW 11703/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of pharmacies that closed between January 2023 and April 2024; (ii) how this figure compares to the previous ten years; (iii) how many of these where independent pharmacies; (iv) how many were located in rural areas; and (v) whether community pharmacy underfunding was the main reason given for these closures.","answerText":"A total of 9 pharmacies closed between January 2023 and December 2023, which are the latest publicly available figures. This compares to a total of 10 closures in the previous ten years (January 2013 to December 2022). Of the 9 pharmacies that closed between January 2023 and December 2023, 3 were independent pharmacies and none were located in rural areas. Closure requests are submitted in writing by letter or email correspondence. There is no requirement to state the reason for closure. In one closure request, underfunding was specifically stated as the reason for closure in the written correspondence.","answerHtml":"A total of 9 pharmacies closed between January 2023 and December 2023, which are the latest publicly available figures. This compares to a total of 10 closures in the previous ten years (January 2013 to December 2022). Of the 9 pharmacies that closed between January 2023 and December 2023, 3 were independent pharmacies and none were located in rural areas. Closure requests are submitted in writing by letter or email correspondence. There is no requirement to state the reason for closure. In one closure request, underfunding was specifically stated as the reason for closure in the written correspondence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011703%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401072"}},{"id":"401071","reference":"AQW 11702/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-10","answerBy":"2024-05-28","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has any plans to amend The Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008 to provide for the recommendations relating to consent outlined in the Gillen Review.","answerText":"I fully support Sir John Gillen’s conclusion in his Review of the Law and Procedures in Serious Sexual Offences that legislative steps need to be taken to underpin the key principle of consent as defined in Article 3 of the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008: “A person consents if he agrees by choice, and has the freedom and capacity to make that choice”. The Review made a number of recommendations as to how this might be achieved.\n\nI remain committed to developing the relevant policy and legislative proposals in this current mandate.","answerHtml":"I fully support Sir John Gillen’s conclusion in his Review of the Law and Procedures in Serious Sexual Offences that legislative steps need to be taken to underpin the key principle of consent as defined in Article 3 of the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008: “A person consents if he agrees by choice, and has the freedom and capacity to make that choice”. The Review made a number of recommendations as to how this might be achieved.
I remain committed to developing the relevant policy and legislative proposals in this current mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011702%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=401071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=401071"}},{"id":"400820","reference":"AQW 11609/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-14","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether he is aware that some drivers from Northern Ireland are being told by their insurance companies that they cannot drive in the Republic of Ireland due to their MOT being out of date, despite having a Temporary Exemption Certificate; and (ii) how he has engaged with (a) insurance companies; and (b) the Irish government in relation to his plans.","answerText":"From 1 June 2024, private cars first registered between 1 June 2019 and 31 May 2020 or between 1 June 2017 and 31 May 2018, which have a valid MOT issued by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) will have a one-year Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC) automatically applied.\n\nThis automatic process will be implemented from late-May onwards and once TECs have been applied this will extend the MOT certificate by 12 months from the expiry of the current MOT. This will allow motorists to continue to drive the vehicle legally, if it is kept in a roadworthy condition, is taxed and insured. This will also include driving in other jurisdictions such as Britain and the South.\n\nThe DVA has consulted with the PSNI and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) who both understand the need to introduce measures to reduce waiting times. Both organisations have also confirmed they will continue to apply the current mitigations that are in place for customers who cannot secure an MOT appointment before their current certificate expires.\n\nThe view of the ABI is that a lack of a valid MOT certificate due to delays in the MOT testing regime here would not necessarily invalidate insurance but customers who find themselves in that situation are advised to check their policy documents or speak to their insurer.","answerHtml":"From 1 June 2024, private cars first registered between 1 June 2019 and 31 May 2020 or between 1 June 2017 and 31 May 2018, which have a valid MOT issued by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) will have a one-year Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC) automatically applied.
This automatic process will be implemented from late-May onwards and once TECs have been applied this will extend the MOT certificate by 12 months from the expiry of the current MOT. This will allow motorists to continue to drive the vehicle legally, if it is kept in a roadworthy condition, is taxed and insured. This will also include driving in other jurisdictions such as Britain and the South.
The DVA has consulted with the PSNI and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) who both understand the need to introduce measures to reduce waiting times. Both organisations have also confirmed they will continue to apply the current mitigations that are in place for customers who cannot secure an MOT appointment before their current certificate expires.
The view of the ABI is that a lack of a valid MOT certificate due to delays in the MOT testing regime here would not necessarily invalidate insurance but customers who find themselves in that situation are advised to check their policy documents or speak to their insurer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011609%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400820"}},{"id":"400819","reference":"AQW 11608/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for his assessment of the impact misogynistic social media influencers and online content has on children and young people; (ii) for his assessment of how this impacts their behaviour towards school peers, particularly girls and young women; and (iii) what plans he has to (a) prevent this content being accessed or shared in schools; and (b) provide targeted education to prevent this content influencing young people.","answerText":"The Department of Education (DE) fully recognises the challenges in keeping children and young people safe from the dangers of inappropriate communication and content. My officials are cognisant of recent research published by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland that highlights the promotion of misogynistic ideas online as an area of concern. I have also recently met with the Secondary Students’ Union of Northern Ireland (SSUNI), which has produced a report detailing pupil experiences of sexual harassment and sexism, the role of social media in encouraging sexist behaviour and the adverse impact of this on some of the pupils who responded to the survey.\n\nTo prevent children from accessing harmful online content in schools, access is restricted on any C2k computer which is connected to the C2k managed network. The C2k wireless provision does not allow anyone using a mobile device to access social networking sites. Pupils, therefore, cannot access social media websites using school ICT equipment without some classroom supervision at a minimum. If a school decides to provide an alternative internet access beyond the C2k network, the effective filtering of any inappropriate online content rests with the school’s Board of Governors. Where schools have adopted a Bring Your Own Device policy, pupils may have unfiltered internet access available through their personal 4G/5G networks.\n\nDE issues guidance in relation to online safety and safeguarding more generally. My officials are currently working to update Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools to reflect emerging best practice in relation to all aspects of safeguarding, including online safety. DE is also engaged in a range of cross-departmental strategies including the Online Safety Strategy, the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.\n\nYou may be aware the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland recently launched the Online Safety hub, delivered as part of the Executive’s “Keeping Children and Young People Safe: An Online Safety Strategy”. I wrote to all education, early years and youth settings on 26 April to encourage the use of the hub within settings and to promote its use to parents and our children and young people.\n\nIn terms of educating young people on these matters, the design of the curriculum allows for flexibility for such issues to be taught in our schools. I can also confirm that additional supports are available via the Safer Schools Northern Ireland app, which is funded by DE and provides tailored support and information to teachers, parents, carers and pupils about safeguarding issues and online harms, including extremist content and social media influencers.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education (DE) fully recognises the challenges in keeping children and young people safe from the dangers of inappropriate communication and content. My officials are cognisant of recent research published by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland that highlights the promotion of misogynistic ideas online as an area of concern. I have also recently met with the Secondary Students’ Union of Northern Ireland (SSUNI), which has produced a report detailing pupil experiences of sexual harassment and sexism, the role of social media in encouraging sexist behaviour and the adverse impact of this on some of the pupils who responded to the survey.
To prevent children from accessing harmful online content in schools, access is restricted on any C2k computer which is connected to the C2k managed network. The C2k wireless provision does not allow anyone using a mobile device to access social networking sites. Pupils, therefore, cannot access social media websites using school ICT equipment without some classroom supervision at a minimum. If a school decides to provide an alternative internet access beyond the C2k network, the effective filtering of any inappropriate online content rests with the school’s Board of Governors. Where schools have adopted a Bring Your Own Device policy, pupils may have unfiltered internet access available through their personal 4G/5G networks.
DE issues guidance in relation to online safety and safeguarding more generally. My officials are currently working to update Safeguarding and Child Protection in Schools - A Guide for Schools to reflect emerging best practice in relation to all aspects of safeguarding, including online safety. DE is also engaged in a range of cross-departmental strategies including the Online Safety Strategy, the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy and the Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy.
You may be aware the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland recently launched the Online Safety hub, delivered as part of the Executive’s “Keeping Children and Young People Safe: An Online Safety Strategy”. I wrote to all education, early years and youth settings on 26 April to encourage the use of the hub within settings and to promote its use to parents and our children and young people.
In terms of educating young people on these matters, the design of the curriculum allows for flexibility for such issues to be taught in our schools. I can also confirm that additional supports are available via the Safer Schools Northern Ireland app, which is funded by DE and provides tailored support and information to teachers, parents, carers and pupils about safeguarding issues and online harms, including extremist content and social media influencers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011608%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400819"}},{"id":"400818","reference":"AQW 11607/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-05-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the support available for women who have suffered a prolapse post-birth; and (ii) any issues which cause support or treatment to be delayed.","answerText":"(i) Treatment and support for women who have suffered a prolapse post-birth prolapse may vary from non-surgical to surgical treatment options.\n\nNon-Surgical Treatment options\n\nNon-surgical treatment options include pelvic floor exercises and vaginal pessaries (plastic rings or devices to support the prolapse), right through to complex pelvic floor reconstructive surgery.\n\nSurgical Treatment options\n\nThe following surgical inventions are available for prolapse:\n\nVaginal hysterectomy\n\nAnterior & posterior repair\n\nEnterocele repair\n\nPerineorrhaphy\n\nSacrospinous ligament fixation\n\nLaparoscopic sacrocolpopexy\n\nLaparoscopic sacrohysteropexy (womb-preserving key-hole surgery)\n\n(ii) My officials have advised that there is a recovery period after birth, therefore surgical management wouldn't usually be considered until further down the line (and usually not until women have completed their family), although conservative treatments can be initiated much earlier to improve symptoms including continence issues.","answerHtml":"(i) Treatment and support for women who have suffered a prolapse post-birth prolapse may vary from non-surgical to surgical treatment options.
Non-Surgical Treatment options
Non-surgical treatment options include pelvic floor exercises and vaginal pessaries (plastic rings or devices to support the prolapse), right through to complex pelvic floor reconstructive surgery.
Surgical Treatment options
The following surgical inventions are available for prolapse:
Vaginal hysterectomy
Anterior & posterior repair
Enterocele repair
Perineorrhaphy
Sacrospinous ligament fixation
Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy
Laparoscopic sacrohysteropexy (womb-preserving key-hole surgery)
(ii) My officials have advised that there is a recovery period after birth, therefore surgical management wouldn't usually be considered until further down the line (and usually not until women have completed their family), although conservative treatments can be initiated much earlier to improve symptoms including continence issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011607%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400818"}},{"id":"400817","reference":"AQW 11606/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of social houses with four or more bedrooms available in the Causeway Coast and Glens area; (ii) his assessment of whether this is adequate to meet the current need; and (iii) his plans to increase this number.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.\n\n“There are currently 317 Housing Executive properties with four or more bedrooms in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nAs of 31st December 2023, there were 147 applicants on the waiting list in the Causeway Coast and Glens area with a bedroom requirement of 4 or more. The projected 5 year 2023-28 social housing need for Causeway Coast and Glens is 1,638 units. The Housing Executive’s Commissioning Prospectus indicative housing mix for Causeway Coast and Glens for this period is 17% older persons, 38% families (with focus on small family households) and 45% singles accommodation. Where there is an identified need for 4+ bed accommodation this will be reviewed with the Housing Association to ascertain feasibility on a scheme-by-scheme basis.\n\nThere have been 190 new social housing Completions in Causeway Coast and Glens area the last 3 years 2021/22 – 2023/24. 11 of these units have 4+ bedrooms. There are currently 277 social housing units under construction. 13 of these units have 4+ bedrooms. There are 699 social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 - 2026/27 in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nIt is not possible to provide the definitive detail on the exact housing mix across all these proposed new schemes, however each programmed scheme will be reviewed with the NIHE Place-shaping Team against the housing need for the area.\n\nPlease note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.”\n\nThe construction of new social homes will be dependent on the available budget. The Executive has recently agreed the 2024/25 budget, I will now decide how this is allocated across my department. Funding for the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) for 2024/25 has yet to be finalised.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.
“There are currently 317 Housing Executive properties with four or more bedrooms in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
As of 31st December 2023, there were 147 applicants on the waiting list in the Causeway Coast and Glens area with a bedroom requirement of 4 or more. The projected 5 year 2023-28 social housing need for Causeway Coast and Glens is 1,638 units. The Housing Executive’s Commissioning Prospectus indicative housing mix for Causeway Coast and Glens for this period is 17% older persons, 38% families (with focus on small family households) and 45% singles accommodation. Where there is an identified need for 4+ bed accommodation this will be reviewed with the Housing Association to ascertain feasibility on a scheme-by-scheme basis.
There have been 190 new social housing Completions in Causeway Coast and Glens area the last 3 years 2021/22 – 2023/24. 11 of these units have 4+ bedrooms. There are currently 277 social housing units under construction. 13 of these units have 4+ bedrooms. There are 699 social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2024/25 - 2026/27 in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
It is not possible to provide the definitive detail on the exact housing mix across all these proposed new schemes, however each programmed scheme will be reviewed with the NIHE Place-shaping Team against the housing need for the area.
Please note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.”
The construction of new social homes will be dependent on the available budget. The Executive has recently agreed the 2024/25 budget, I will now decide how this is allocated across my department. Funding for the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) for 2024/25 has yet to be finalised.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011606%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400817"}},{"id":"400816","reference":"AQW 11605/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-09","answerBy":"2024-05-24","answered":"2024-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the provision of temporary housing in the Causeway Coast and Glens area; (ii) to detail the impact on those who are temporarily housed a great distance away from their current area; and (iii) how he is supporting the Housing Executive to provide more temporary housing to prevent disruption to families and older people.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to homelessness, including provision of homelessness accommodation. As such I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The table below details the number of temporary accommodation placements in the Causeway Coast and Glens over the past five years:\n\nYear\tNumber of Placement in Temporary Accommodation\n2018/19\t113\n2019/20\t146\n2020/21\t467\n2021/22\t426\n2022/23\t550\n\nThe figures for 2023/24 will be available upon release of the next DfC Housing/Homelessness Bulletin which is scheduled for 23rd May 2024.\n\nThe Housing Executive will always endeavour to provide temporary accommodation that is close to the current area of the applicant.\n\nThe Housing Executive will consider factors such as the individual circumstances and the needs of a given Applicant and will take on board any representation made on behalf of the Applicant. The consideration of individual circumstances will include proximity to their current area.\n\nPlacements can be offered in emergency temporary accommodation that do not meet all of the relevant suitability factors. While an individual may feel the emergency temporary accommodation which has been made available is unreasonable, it should be noted that the Housing Executive can meet its homelessness duty by keeping an Applicant in accommodation that would not be suitable to occupy on a long term basis but it would not be unreasonable for the Applicant to occupy for a short period. This is while the Housing Executive continues to looks for a permanent housing solution, which can be a Housing Executive or Housing Association property, within their area of choice.\n\nIt should be noted that while the Housing Executive will endeavour to provide a placement that as far as possible, meets the needs of the respective household, there has been a sustained increase in demand for temporary accommodation.\n\nIn such circumstances, any provision of temporary accommodation will be dictated by availability on a given day.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s strategic approach to assisting those in temporary accommodation is supported by a Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/fd320853-cf6e-4403-908f-d0a0b7dbbaea/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf\n\nThe Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation Year 2 Action Plan can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/e95603ed-bad9-47ca-90a2-1aef23659665/Year-2-Actions-Strategic-Action-Plan-for-Temporary-Accommodation-2022-27.pdf and contains actions that support the Housing Executive’s delivery of a sustainable supply of good quality, affordable temporary accommodation which is safe, warm and well managed.”","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to homelessness, including provision of homelessness accommodation. As such I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The table below details the number of temporary accommodation placements in the Causeway Coast and Glens over the past five years:
| Year | Number of Placement in Temporary Accommodation |
| 2018/19 | 113 |
| 2019/20 | 146 |
| 2020/21 | 467 |
| 2021/22 | 426 |
| 2022/23 | 550 |
The figures for 2023/24 will be available upon release of the next DfC Housing/Homelessness Bulletin which is scheduled for 23rd May 2024.
The Housing Executive will always endeavour to provide temporary accommodation that is close to the current area of the applicant.
The Housing Executive will consider factors such as the individual circumstances and the needs of a given Applicant and will take on board any representation made on behalf of the Applicant. The consideration of individual circumstances will include proximity to their current area.
Placements can be offered in emergency temporary accommodation that do not meet all of the relevant suitability factors. While an individual may feel the emergency temporary accommodation which has been made available is unreasonable, it should be noted that the Housing Executive can meet its homelessness duty by keeping an Applicant in accommodation that would not be suitable to occupy on a long term basis but it would not be unreasonable for the Applicant to occupy for a short period. This is while the Housing Executive continues to looks for a permanent housing solution, which can be a Housing Executive or Housing Association property, within their area of choice.
It should be noted that while the Housing Executive will endeavour to provide a placement that as far as possible, meets the needs of the respective household, there has been a sustained increase in demand for temporary accommodation.
In such circumstances, any provision of temporary accommodation will be dictated by availability on a given day.
The Housing Executive’s strategic approach to assisting those in temporary accommodation is supported by a Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation which can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/fd320853-cf6e-4403-908f-d0a0b7dbbaea/Temporary-Accommodation-Strategic-Action-Plan-2022-27.pdf
The Strategic Action Plan for Temporary Accommodation Year 2 Action Plan can be found here https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/e95603ed-bad9-47ca-90a2-1aef23659665/Year-2-Actions-Strategic-Action-Plan-for-Temporary-Accommodation-2022-27.pdf and contains actions that support the Housing Executive’s delivery of a sustainable supply of good quality, affordable temporary accommodation which is safe, warm and well managed.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011605%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400816"}},{"id":"400656","reference":"AQW 11531/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, further to the announcement on 27 March 2024 of £9.2 million investment in general dental services, to detail (i) when the business cases will be completed for this investment; and (ii) the rationale for this timescale.","answerText":"Following my announcement on 27 March 2024 regarding a £9.2 million investment in General Dental Services, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) has been working to develop three Business Cases in line with the process set out by Department of Finance.\n\nThis is a rigorous process which requires time to facilitate input from a range of staff including Dental Commissioning, Dental Public Health and Finance colleagues with regard to setting the scope of the services, identifying objectives and mitigating potential risks, as well as financial analysis and costings calculations. This process of due diligence is essential to ensure value for money for public funds, particularly given the value and scale of the investment.\n\nI am pleased to advise that the Business Case enabling a 30% enhancement to fees relating to fillings, extractions and root canal treatments has been approved and the enhanced rates will take effect from 1 April 2024. The other two Business Cases are in the final stages of development, and are likely to be approved in the coming days.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement on 27 March 2024 regarding a £9.2 million investment in General Dental Services, the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) has been working to develop three Business Cases in line with the process set out by Department of Finance.
This is a rigorous process which requires time to facilitate input from a range of staff including Dental Commissioning, Dental Public Health and Finance colleagues with regard to setting the scope of the services, identifying objectives and mitigating potential risks, as well as financial analysis and costings calculations. This process of due diligence is essential to ensure value for money for public funds, particularly given the value and scale of the investment.
I am pleased to advise that the Business Case enabling a 30% enhancement to fees relating to fillings, extractions and root canal treatments has been approved and the enhanced rates will take effect from 1 April 2024. The other two Business Cases are in the final stages of development, and are likely to be approved in the coming days.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011531%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400656"}},{"id":"400655","reference":"AQW 11530/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 9590/22-27, (i) what is being done to address the lack of resources to meet capacity; (ii) the reasons for the number of re-consultations; and (iii) what is being done to improve the quality of information submitted.","answerText":"Over the last few years, the Department has undertaken a range of measures to address the lack of resources to meet capacity. These include a review and update of guidance and internal procedures; temporary redeployment of additional caseworkers; and additional processes have been introduced such as the cessation of updates in order to allow staff to focus on the actual processing of consultations.\n\nAnalysis of consultations being receipted demonstrates that approximately 40% of these are re-consultations; the overriding reason for this is poor quality and incomplete documentation submitted with applications.\n\nOfficials have initiated engagement with a variety of stakeholders including specific sectoral engagements, including with agents, to improve the quality of information submitted with a consultation. In addtion, my Department is working in collaboration with the DfI cross-governmental Planning Statutory Consultee Forum which aims to drive forward continuous improvements in the planning system.","answerHtml":"Over the last few years, the Department has undertaken a range of measures to address the lack of resources to meet capacity. These include a review and update of guidance and internal procedures; temporary redeployment of additional caseworkers; and additional processes have been introduced such as the cessation of updates in order to allow staff to focus on the actual processing of consultations.
Analysis of consultations being receipted demonstrates that approximately 40% of these are re-consultations; the overriding reason for this is poor quality and incomplete documentation submitted with applications.
Officials have initiated engagement with a variety of stakeholders including specific sectoral engagements, including with agents, to improve the quality of information submitted with a consultation. In addtion, my Department is working in collaboration with the DfI cross-governmental Planning Statutory Consultee Forum which aims to drive forward continuous improvements in the planning system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011530%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400655"}},{"id":"400654","reference":"AQW 11529/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) when dental practitioners will be eligible to be paid the enhanced rates for the targeted areas identified in the Dental Access Scheme; and (ii) to identify any risk to practitioners who carry out the work if business cases are not approved.","answerText":"On 27 March 2024 I announced a £9.2m investment in General Dental Services for 2024/25. Included in this investment was 30% enhancement to the fees paid to General Dental Practitioners for filings, extractions and root canal treatment.\n\nThis enhancement will be applied to all eligible treatments completed in 2024/25, with arrears payments made, as required, until the fees in the Statement of Dental Remuneration are updated.\n\nThe business case for the enhancement has been approved and as such there is no risk to practitioners who provide these treatments.","answerHtml":"On 27 March 2024 I announced a £9.2m investment in General Dental Services for 2024/25. Included in this investment was 30% enhancement to the fees paid to General Dental Practitioners for filings, extractions and root canal treatment.
This enhancement will be applied to all eligible treatments completed in 2024/25, with arrears payments made, as required, until the fees in the Statement of Dental Remuneration are updated.
The business case for the enhancement has been approved and as such there is no risk to practitioners who provide these treatments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011529%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400654"}},{"id":"400653","reference":"AQW 11528/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the total spend on General Dental Services in (i) 2019-20; (ii) 2020-21; (iii) 2021-22; (iv) 2022-23; and (v) 2023-24, broken down by month.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011528%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400653"}},{"id":"400652","reference":"AQW 11527/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-08","answerBy":"2024-05-23","answered":"2024-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) to detail their plans for Good Relations; and (ii) how Good Relations will be considered in each outcome in the Programme for Government.","answerText":"Allocation of The Executive’s Office budget for 2024/25 is currently under consideration. Plans for Good Relations delivery will be finalised as part of this process.\n\nA Programme for Government is being developed at pace and will be brought to the Assembly once agreed by the Executive. It is important that the PfG reflects the agreed position of the entire Executive. We will support Good Relations and hope to see all departments play a role, but the commitments made within a PfG will be for the Executive.","answerHtml":"Allocation of The Executive’s Office budget for 2024/25 is currently under consideration. Plans for Good Relations delivery will be finalised as part of this process.
A Programme for Government is being developed at pace and will be brought to the Assembly once agreed by the Executive. It is important that the PfG reflects the agreed position of the entire Executive. We will support Good Relations and hope to see all departments play a role, but the commitments made within a PfG will be for the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011527%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400652"}},{"id":"400458","reference":"AQW 11446/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-07","answerBy":"2024-05-22","answered":"2024-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the negative impacts of second home ownership; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to address this.","answerText":"There is very limited data available on second homes which makes it difficult to establish their extent, location and what impacts they may have.\n\nFor example, the latest Census for Northern Ireland showed that six percent of all houses had no usual residents. There are a range of possibilities for this including that they are truly vacant, being renovated, self-catering/short-term lets or second homes.\n\nMy Department and the Housing Executive are beginning research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues.","answerHtml":"There is very limited data available on second homes which makes it difficult to establish their extent, location and what impacts they may have.
For example, the latest Census for Northern Ireland showed that six percent of all houses had no usual residents. There are a range of possibilities for this including that they are truly vacant, being renovated, self-catering/short-term lets or second homes.
My Department and the Housing Executive are beginning research on second home ownership to improve our understanding of the issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011446%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400458"}},{"id":"400457","reference":"AQW 11445/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-07","answerBy":"2024-05-22","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the agreed amalgamation of Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College; (ii) to confirm the site for the new school; and (iii) whether capital funding will be made available in advance of day one.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has initiated a project to locate Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College on a single site by the effective date of the amalgamation, 1 September 2026.\n\nAll three existing school sites are being considered, as well as the former site of Coleraine High School on the Lodge Road. The EA will also engage with the University of Ulster to clarify any options for a new school however, the long-term ambition of the school for a new school building will require major capital investment and at this time there is no open call for major capital works.\n\nAny identified works required to implement the amalgamation will likely fall in 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years. My Department does not have its capital budget beyond 2024/25 so I am unable to provide any assurances regarding the availability of capital budget at this time.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has initiated a project to locate Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College on a single site by the effective date of the amalgamation, 1 September 2026.
All three existing school sites are being considered, as well as the former site of Coleraine High School on the Lodge Road. The EA will also engage with the University of Ulster to clarify any options for a new school however, the long-term ambition of the school for a new school building will require major capital investment and at this time there is no open call for major capital works.
Any identified works required to implement the amalgamation will likely fall in 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years. My Department does not have its capital budget beyond 2024/25 so I am unable to provide any assurances regarding the availability of capital budget at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011445%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400457"}},{"id":"400456","reference":"AQW 11444/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-07","answerBy":"2024-05-22","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) her assessment of the impact of sickness absence in the PSNI and the ability to ensure communities are kept safe; (ii) any conversations she has had with the Chief Constable in relation to this; and (iii) what support he has asked from her Department to improve the situation.","answerText":"(i) Resourcing within the PSNI remains a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I respect the Chief Constable’s operational independence and the role of the Policing Board, therefore it would not be appropriate for me to make an assessment of what are operational matters.\n\n(ii) I met with the Chief Constable and Chair of the Poling Board on 1 May 2024 to discuss the pressures facing the PSNI, challenges in managing sick absence within the PSNI, and the pressures these create in delivering effective policing for our communities. I have confidence that it is a priority for the Chief Constable and as such is receiving the appropriate attention.\n\n(iii) My department has regular engagement with the PSNI on this and other issues and I will continue to work with the Chief Constable to ensure we have a police service that is properly resourced in all aspects for the challenges it faces.","answerHtml":"(i) Resourcing within the PSNI remains a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I respect the Chief Constable’s operational independence and the role of the Policing Board, therefore it would not be appropriate for me to make an assessment of what are operational matters.
(ii) I met with the Chief Constable and Chair of the Poling Board on 1 May 2024 to discuss the pressures facing the PSNI, challenges in managing sick absence within the PSNI, and the pressures these create in delivering effective policing for our communities. I have confidence that it is a priority for the Chief Constable and as such is receiving the appropriate attention.
(iii) My department has regular engagement with the PSNI on this and other issues and I will continue to work with the Chief Constable to ensure we have a police service that is properly resourced in all aspects for the challenges it faces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011444%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400456"}},{"id":"400455","reference":"AQW 11443/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-07","answerBy":"2024-05-22","answered":"2024-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) whether an active ageing strategy will be included in the Programme for Government to recognise the results of the recent census that we are an ageing population; and (ii) for their assessment of how an ageing population will impact public services.","answerText":"We know that the proportion of our population over the age of 65 is increasing and this will necessarily change how we deliver public services that support older people.\n\nDiscussions are ongoing regarding the development of the Programme. We are looking forward to sharing a draft with the Assembly in the near future.","answerHtml":"We know that the proportion of our population over the age of 65 is increasing and this will necessarily change how we deliver public services that support older people.
Discussions are ongoing regarding the development of the Programme. We are looking forward to sharing a draft with the Assembly in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011443%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400455","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400455"}},{"id":"400454","reference":"AQW 11442/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-07","answerBy":"2024-05-22","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he plans to take forward Lucy’s Law as part of his legislative programme.","answerText":"I am determined to bring forward new animal welfare legislation, however, I am mindful of what can be achieved within the resources available to my Department and the time remaining in this mandate.\n\nNevertheless, I can confirm my desire to deliver ‘Lucy’s Law’ within the lifetime of this Assembly.","answerHtml":"I am determined to bring forward new animal welfare legislation, however, I am mindful of what can be achieved within the resources available to my Department and the time remaining in this mandate.
Nevertheless, I can confirm my desire to deliver ‘Lucy’s Law’ within the lifetime of this Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011442%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400454","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400454"}},{"id":"400217","reference":"AQW 11344/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-03","answerBy":"2024-05-21","answered":"2024-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) how each stage of the criminal justice process is informed to (a) recognise and; (b) approach in a sensitive manner, cases involving violence against women and girls; and (ii) the training that is provided on these matters.","answerText":"I recognise how important it is to that at every stage of the criminal justice process cases involving violence against women and girls are handled with appropriate sensitivity. Comprehensive measures have been introduced across all criminal justice organisations.\n\nIt is important to emphasise that operational matters within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) remain the responsibility of the Chief Constable. Therefore, I cannot comment on specific police procedures or practices as I have a duty to respect that independence.\n\nSimilarly, the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) is a non-ministerial Department and is not accountable to the Department of Justice; their decisions and practices remain the responsibility of the Director of Public Prosecutions.\n\nThe judiciary, in their handling of cases are independent of the Department of Justice: practice directions are issues by the Lady Chief Justice to guide the judiciary in various areas of case handling.\n\nAs part of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (2021) and the Protection from Stalking Act (2022) the NI Assembly legislated for mandatory training for a number of criminal justice organisations and we monitor compliance with that legislation.\n\nMy Department also funds Victim Support NI to provide a range of support services to all victims of crime including women and girls. Victim Support NI are funded to undertake continuous training and all staff and volunteers must complete mandatory trauma informed training.\n\nThe Gillen Review set out over 30 recommendations to improve how criminal justice organisations and the legal profession can improve the training delivered to those who deal with victims of sexual crime, the majority of whom are female.\n\nWork in this area includes the development of a Trauma Informed Learning Framework which sets out a range of training solutions intended to result in increased and improved knowledge and greater awareness and sensitivity for those dealing with victims of serious sexual offences. A multi-agency Training Group is in place to monitor delivery and impact of this training.\n\nIn addition to these developments, my Department has established an advocacy service to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse who are progressing through the criminal justice process. The service provides guidance and support to victims, tailored to individual needs. Again, the majority of victims supported by ASSIST NI are female, reflecting the nature of these crimes which disproportionately affect women and girls. All staff undergo an induction and training plan when recruited by ASSIST NI which reflects the gendered nature of domestic and/or sexual abuse.\n\nIn addition, my Department has introduced and funds Sexual Offences Legal Advisers (SOLAs) which provides legal advice and information to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases as they navigate the criminal justice system. SOLAs, who receive continuous training including on trauma informed practice, are also located within Victim Support NI which helps facilitate rapid referral or direction to specialised services if required.\n\nI trust that this overview provides insight into the proactive measures taken by my Department to address cases of violence against women and girls within the criminal justice system. I remain committed to continuously improving outcomes in this area.","answerHtml":"I recognise how important it is to that at every stage of the criminal justice process cases involving violence against women and girls are handled with appropriate sensitivity. Comprehensive measures have been introduced across all criminal justice organisations.
It is important to emphasise that operational matters within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) remain the responsibility of the Chief Constable. Therefore, I cannot comment on specific police procedures or practices as I have a duty to respect that independence.
Similarly, the Public Prosecution Service (PPS) is a non-ministerial Department and is not accountable to the Department of Justice; their decisions and practices remain the responsibility of the Director of Public Prosecutions.
The judiciary, in their handling of cases are independent of the Department of Justice: practice directions are issues by the Lady Chief Justice to guide the judiciary in various areas of case handling.
As part of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (2021) and the Protection from Stalking Act (2022) the NI Assembly legislated for mandatory training for a number of criminal justice organisations and we monitor compliance with that legislation.
My Department also funds Victim Support NI to provide a range of support services to all victims of crime including women and girls. Victim Support NI are funded to undertake continuous training and all staff and volunteers must complete mandatory trauma informed training.
The Gillen Review set out over 30 recommendations to improve how criminal justice organisations and the legal profession can improve the training delivered to those who deal with victims of sexual crime, the majority of whom are female.
Work in this area includes the development of a Trauma Informed Learning Framework which sets out a range of training solutions intended to result in increased and improved knowledge and greater awareness and sensitivity for those dealing with victims of serious sexual offences. A multi-agency Training Group is in place to monitor delivery and impact of this training.
In addition to these developments, my Department has established an advocacy service to support victims of domestic and sexual abuse who are progressing through the criminal justice process. The service provides guidance and support to victims, tailored to individual needs. Again, the majority of victims supported by ASSIST NI are female, reflecting the nature of these crimes which disproportionately affect women and girls. All staff undergo an induction and training plan when recruited by ASSIST NI which reflects the gendered nature of domestic and/or sexual abuse.
In addition, my Department has introduced and funds Sexual Offences Legal Advisers (SOLAs) which provides legal advice and information to adult complainants in serious sexual offence cases as they navigate the criminal justice system. SOLAs, who receive continuous training including on trauma informed practice, are also located within Victim Support NI which helps facilitate rapid referral or direction to specialised services if required.
I trust that this overview provides insight into the proactive measures taken by my Department to address cases of violence against women and girls within the criminal justice system. I remain committed to continuously improving outcomes in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011344%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400217","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400217"}},{"id":"400216","reference":"AQW 11343/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-03","answerBy":"2024-05-21","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what steps her Department has taken to ensure unexplained wealth orders are used to their full extent.","answerText":"The Criminal Finances Act 2017 introduced the powers for specified agencies to apply to the High Court for an unexplained wealth order (UWO) to be made. The relevant Northern Ireland provisions of the 2017 Act were brought into operation on 28 June 2021.\n\nThe role of my Department is to ensure that the legislative tools and options are there for operational partners to use. The use of UWOs is, therefore, an operational matter, and the National Crime Agency is the lead agency for UWOs in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe National Crime Agency have advised that they consider the potential use of a UWO in every civil financial investigation where the statutory threshold is met, in particular where there is no clear link between the property in question and unlawful conduct and/or where the respondent has accrued assets that are not commensurate with their known income/employment.\n\nTheir use must be considered within the wider context of the UK’s asset recovery system. The National Crime Agency will seek to use the most appropriate investigative order according to the circumstances of the case. In the vast majority of cases other investigative tools, such as Disclosure Orders, are a much more effective means to progress an investigation. Other asset recovery tools are used successfully in Northern Ireland on an ongoing basis, including applications by police and the National Crime Agency for Account Freezing Orders and Listed Asset Orders, which were also introduced by the Criminal Finances Act 2017.\n\nIt is important to note that they are a useful investigatory, rather than a recovery tool. A UWO can be sought without any civil or criminal proceedings having begun. While they have the potential to enhance the ability of enforcement agencies to take steps to recover the proceeds of crime, using a wider range of asset recovery powers, they are not in themselves a means to recover the proceeds of crime.","answerHtml":"The Criminal Finances Act 2017 introduced the powers for specified agencies to apply to the High Court for an unexplained wealth order (UWO) to be made. The relevant Northern Ireland provisions of the 2017 Act were brought into operation on 28 June 2021.
The role of my Department is to ensure that the legislative tools and options are there for operational partners to use. The use of UWOs is, therefore, an operational matter, and the National Crime Agency is the lead agency for UWOs in Northern Ireland.
The National Crime Agency have advised that they consider the potential use of a UWO in every civil financial investigation where the statutory threshold is met, in particular where there is no clear link between the property in question and unlawful conduct and/or where the respondent has accrued assets that are not commensurate with their known income/employment.
Their use must be considered within the wider context of the UK’s asset recovery system. The National Crime Agency will seek to use the most appropriate investigative order according to the circumstances of the case. In the vast majority of cases other investigative tools, such as Disclosure Orders, are a much more effective means to progress an investigation. Other asset recovery tools are used successfully in Northern Ireland on an ongoing basis, including applications by police and the National Crime Agency for Account Freezing Orders and Listed Asset Orders, which were also introduced by the Criminal Finances Act 2017.
It is important to note that they are a useful investigatory, rather than a recovery tool. A UWO can be sought without any civil or criminal proceedings having begun. While they have the potential to enhance the ability of enforcement agencies to take steps to recover the proceeds of crime, using a wider range of asset recovery powers, they are not in themselves a means to recover the proceeds of crime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011343%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400216","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400216"}},{"id":"400215","reference":"AQW 11342/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-03","answerBy":"2024-05-21","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of delays of cases across all courts; (ii) to detail her plans to speed up the justice system in relation to this; and (iii) for a timeframe of when improvement from her actions can be expected.","answerText":"Tackling delay is one of the biggest challenges facing the criminal justice system and is a key priority for the Department and relevant justice agencies. However, reducing the time it takes to complete criminal cases is a challenging and complex issue.\n\nPrior to Covid, the Department’s efforts to tackle delay were having a positive effect, with the overall average time to complete a criminal case falling from 169 days in December 2018 to 149 days in March 2020, when lockdowns were first introduced. This reduction was largely driven by improvements in the magistrates’ courts. Based on internal management information, provisional statistics show that the average time taken for Quarter 4 2023-24 was 191 days. This is down from the post–Covid highpoint of 232 days, which was recorded in Quarter 1 2022-23.\n\nHowever, present demand is increasing, with a rise in the number of cases entering both the Crown Court and magistrates’ courts, and we are continuing to tackle backlogs created due to Covid. Courts are generally disposing of more cases than they are receiving, meaning progress is being made; however, it will still be some time before the system is fully recovered and this will be dependent on the availability of resources to continue to operate at an increased level of throughput.\n\nMy Department did not receive funding to address Covid backlogs and currently faces further significant budgetary pressures which will affect our ability to implement initiatives to address delays in the system. There is no doubt the future financial outlook will present challenges to the recovery of the justice system.\n\nIn relation to plans to speed up the justice system, the Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay within the system; however, the pace and scope of change will be greatly dependent on funding. Improved practices also take time to work through the system and so it is difficult to provide a definitive timeframe within which measurable improvements will be delivered. Nonetheless, I remain determined to reduce avoidable delay across all parts of the justice system.","answerHtml":"Tackling delay is one of the biggest challenges facing the criminal justice system and is a key priority for the Department and relevant justice agencies. However, reducing the time it takes to complete criminal cases is a challenging and complex issue.
Prior to Covid, the Department’s efforts to tackle delay were having a positive effect, with the overall average time to complete a criminal case falling from 169 days in December 2018 to 149 days in March 2020, when lockdowns were first introduced. This reduction was largely driven by improvements in the magistrates’ courts. Based on internal management information, provisional statistics show that the average time taken for Quarter 4 2023-24 was 191 days. This is down from the post–Covid highpoint of 232 days, which was recorded in Quarter 1 2022-23.
However, present demand is increasing, with a rise in the number of cases entering both the Crown Court and magistrates’ courts, and we are continuing to tackle backlogs created due to Covid. Courts are generally disposing of more cases than they are receiving, meaning progress is being made; however, it will still be some time before the system is fully recovered and this will be dependent on the availability of resources to continue to operate at an increased level of throughput.
My Department did not receive funding to address Covid backlogs and currently faces further significant budgetary pressures which will affect our ability to implement initiatives to address delays in the system. There is no doubt the future financial outlook will present challenges to the recovery of the justice system.
In relation to plans to speed up the justice system, the Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay within the system; however, the pace and scope of change will be greatly dependent on funding. Improved practices also take time to work through the system and so it is difficult to provide a definitive timeframe within which measurable improvements will be delivered. Nonetheless, I remain determined to reduce avoidable delay across all parts of the justice system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011342%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400215"}},{"id":"400214","reference":"AQW 11341/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-03","answerBy":"2024-05-21","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the rationale for choosing the specific ages of private vehicles to be eligible for Temporary Exemption Certificates.","answerText":"From 1 June 2024, private cars first registered between 1 June 2019 and 31 May 2020 or between 1 June 2017 and 31 May 2018, which have a valid MOT issued by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) will have a one-year Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC) automatically applied from the date their current MOT certificate expires.\n\nHistorically, the youngest vehicles presenting for test have had the highest pass rates. As legislation requires that private cars must have an initial roadworthiness test when they are 4 years old these cars are ineligible to receive a TEC. I have therefore limited the eligibility criteria to younger cars which have a valid MOT certificate in place. Vehicle licensing information shows that around 115,000 cars may be eligible for a TEC, which should make a notable improvement to waiting times.\n\nI appreciate that external factors can negatively impact the DVA’s plans for service delivery. A 12-month gap between the registration dates of the two eligible groups of cars will provide flexibility for the review of the use of TECs in the future.\n\nI am satisfied that the selected dates ranges for TECs strikes the right balance between managing waiting times and the impact on road safety.\n\nAs road users we all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. Vehicle owners also have a legal responsibility for maintaining their vehicles in a roadworthy condition, regardless of MOT status.","answerHtml":"From 1 June 2024, private cars first registered between 1 June 2019 and 31 May 2020 or between 1 June 2017 and 31 May 2018, which have a valid MOT issued by the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) will have a one-year Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC) automatically applied from the date their current MOT certificate expires.
Historically, the youngest vehicles presenting for test have had the highest pass rates. As legislation requires that private cars must have an initial roadworthiness test when they are 4 years old these cars are ineligible to receive a TEC. I have therefore limited the eligibility criteria to younger cars which have a valid MOT certificate in place. Vehicle licensing information shows that around 115,000 cars may be eligible for a TEC, which should make a notable improvement to waiting times.
I appreciate that external factors can negatively impact the DVA’s plans for service delivery. A 12-month gap between the registration dates of the two eligible groups of cars will provide flexibility for the review of the use of TECs in the future.
I am satisfied that the selected dates ranges for TECs strikes the right balance between managing waiting times and the impact on road safety.
As road users we all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. Vehicle owners also have a legal responsibility for maintaining their vehicles in a roadworthy condition, regardless of MOT status.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011341%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400214"}},{"id":"400213","reference":"AQW 11340/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-03","answerBy":"2024-05-21","answered":"2024-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps his Department plans to take to ensure community pharmacies can continue to support elderly and vulnerable patients.","answerText":"I am happy to inform the member that earlier this week the Department of Health published a new Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy which aims to fully realise the potential of community pharmacy services to support better health outcomes from medicines and prevent illness. Implementation of the strategy will not only support elderly and vulnerable patients but the whole population.\n\nThis important piece of work was developed collaboratively by the Department of Health and Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy owners, and describes the vision and strategic priorities for community pharmacy up to 2030.\n\nAgainst the backdrop of the current severe budgetary pressures and the multiple demands for additional funding across all parts of health and social care, additional investment continues to be provided to the community pharmacy sector. The level of government funding for community pharmacies in NI compares favourably to other parts of the UK. However, more will be required to fully deliver this Strategic Plan up to 2030. I am very conscious that the Community Pharmacy sector – like all sectors across health and social care – is keen to see further investment.\n\nThe Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy is available on the Department of Health website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/community-pharmacy-strategic-plan-2030","answerHtml":"I am happy to inform the member that earlier this week the Department of Health published a new Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy which aims to fully realise the potential of community pharmacy services to support better health outcomes from medicines and prevent illness. Implementation of the strategy will not only support elderly and vulnerable patients but the whole population.
This important piece of work was developed collaboratively by the Department of Health and Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacy owners, and describes the vision and strategic priorities for community pharmacy up to 2030.
Against the backdrop of the current severe budgetary pressures and the multiple demands for additional funding across all parts of health and social care, additional investment continues to be provided to the community pharmacy sector. The level of government funding for community pharmacies in NI compares favourably to other parts of the UK. However, more will be required to fully deliver this Strategic Plan up to 2030. I am very conscious that the Community Pharmacy sector – like all sectors across health and social care – is keen to see further investment.
The Strategic Plan for Community Pharmacy is available on the Department of Health website: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/community-pharmacy-strategic-plan-2030
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011340%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=400213","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=400213"}},{"id":"399783","reference":"AQW 11170/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for his assessment of how a comprehensive childcare strategy will reduce levels of child poverty.","answerText":"Addressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me. I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for all in our communities, including our young people, right across Northern Ireland.\n\nI believe that children experiencing poverty, or at risk of experiencing poverty deserve equal access to services and supports, including appropriate childcare and education. Ensuring the availability of appropriate and affordable childcare that meets the needs of parents and children will be a vital aspect of the Executive’s work to address both poverty and gender equality and will be a key aspect of the wider Anti-Poverty Strategy. I am, therefore, very supportive of the broader Childcare Strategy and believe that work on the development of the Anti-Poverty and Childcare Strategies should be closely linked and complementary.\n\nIn addition, the Department for Communities also promotes the value of work, and the positive impact it can have on poverty, health and wellbeing, social inclusion, and our economy. Difficulties accessing childcare can present significant barriers for parents, and particularly mothers, on lower incomes in accessing the labour market. For example, lone parents are the most likely family type to experience poverty.\n\nFinal decisions on the content and implementation of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement as it is an Executive Strategy.","answerHtml":"Addressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me. I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for all in our communities, including our young people, right across Northern Ireland.
I believe that children experiencing poverty, or at risk of experiencing poverty deserve equal access to services and supports, including appropriate childcare and education. Ensuring the availability of appropriate and affordable childcare that meets the needs of parents and children will be a vital aspect of the Executive’s work to address both poverty and gender equality and will be a key aspect of the wider Anti-Poverty Strategy. I am, therefore, very supportive of the broader Childcare Strategy and believe that work on the development of the Anti-Poverty and Childcare Strategies should be closely linked and complementary.
In addition, the Department for Communities also promotes the value of work, and the positive impact it can have on poverty, health and wellbeing, social inclusion, and our economy. Difficulties accessing childcare can present significant barriers for parents, and particularly mothers, on lower incomes in accessing the labour market. For example, lone parents are the most likely family type to experience poverty.
Final decisions on the content and implementation of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement as it is an Executive Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011170%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399783"}},{"id":"399782","reference":"AQW 11169/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his Department’s policy on freeing up hospital beds occupied by patients ready to be discharged but who decline to return home due to the absence of a care package; (ii) the average daily cost of a home care package; and (iii) the average daily cost of a day in a care home.","answerText":"(i) At any one time across Northern Ireland there are a number of delayed discharges from hospital sites. These delays affect patient flow through the hospital system and the ability of Trusts to admit sick patients into beds. It also has a direct impact on those requiring a bed for elective surgery and negatively impacts ambulance waits at Emergency Departments as there are no beds to admit into. Ambulances delayed at hospitals, in turn negatively impacts on the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s capacity to provide essential emergency care in the community.\n\nDue to the necessity to free up hospital beds all Trusts have brought into effect contingency measures, whereupon if a package of care essential to manage the person safely at home is not available, they are offered a contingency bed. Contingency beds offer the opportunity of safe continuing care in a care home setting. Contingency placements are provided free of charge to the service user and care home fees are waived temporarily. The use of contingency beds is appropriate at this time and fully supported by the Department of Health.\n\n(ii) The daily cost of a home care package varies as each package of care is based on the individual's assessment of need which varies from person to person. The Northern Ireland average cost for one hour of home care is £20.36. The average weekly package is 12.7 hours.\n\n(iii) The daily cost of a day in a care home is dependent on the individual’s assessment of need which varies from person to person. There are different categories of care within care home and some individuals may need enhanced care. The Northern Ireland average cost of a contingency bed is £220 per day.\n\nAlso, to note that in recognition of the regional shortage of domiciliary care, I have recently announced a £70m support package for social care providers and hospices. This funding will help independent sector organisations deal with rising costs from the start of the new financial year, particularly forthcoming minimum wage increases.","answerHtml":"(i) At any one time across Northern Ireland there are a number of delayed discharges from hospital sites. These delays affect patient flow through the hospital system and the ability of Trusts to admit sick patients into beds. It also has a direct impact on those requiring a bed for elective surgery and negatively impacts ambulance waits at Emergency Departments as there are no beds to admit into. Ambulances delayed at hospitals, in turn negatively impacts on the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service’s capacity to provide essential emergency care in the community.
Due to the necessity to free up hospital beds all Trusts have brought into effect contingency measures, whereupon if a package of care essential to manage the person safely at home is not available, they are offered a contingency bed. Contingency beds offer the opportunity of safe continuing care in a care home setting. Contingency placements are provided free of charge to the service user and care home fees are waived temporarily. The use of contingency beds is appropriate at this time and fully supported by the Department of Health.
(ii) The daily cost of a home care package varies as each package of care is based on the individual's assessment of need which varies from person to person. The Northern Ireland average cost for one hour of home care is £20.36. The average weekly package is 12.7 hours.
(iii) The daily cost of a day in a care home is dependent on the individual’s assessment of need which varies from person to person. There are different categories of care within care home and some individuals may need enhanced care. The Northern Ireland average cost of a contingency bed is £220 per day.
Also, to note that in recognition of the regional shortage of domiciliary care, I have recently announced a £70m support package for social care providers and hospices. This funding will help independent sector organisations deal with rising costs from the start of the new financial year, particularly forthcoming minimum wage increases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011169%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399782","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399782"}},{"id":"399781","reference":"AQW 11168/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the steps being taken to reduce waiting lists for children’s outpatient appointments, particularly in relation to the recommendations from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Children’s Health; (ii) the reasons behind the 172.6 per cent increase in these lists from June 2016 to June 2023; and (iii) his assessment of the long-term risks to a child’s future mental and physical health if conditions are not treated as a child, relative to those of an adult.","answerText":"The issue of children on prolonged outpatient waiting lists is something that is of high importance to me. Unfortunately, longer waiting lists are something which has been experienced by paediatric and adult services regularly in Northern Ireland. The RCPCH “Worried and Waiting” Report highlights the key issues facing the service but also means to address same. Many of these recommendations also reflect the key priorities of my department.\n\nthe steps being taken to reduce waiting lists for children’s outpatient appointments, particularly in relation to the recommendations from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Children’s Health\n\nMy department published the Paediatric Palliative and End of Life Care Strategy and the Strategy for Paediatric Healthcare Services in Hospitals and in the Community in 2016. Both strategies were completed after considerable consultation with all relevant stakeholders across the sector in NI and beyond to ensure they were as comprehensive as possible;\n\nIn each strategy there are 23 ambitious objectives that cover a wide range of issues: -\n\nWithin paediatric palliative care, from diagnosis of a palliative or life limited condition through to bereavement support for families of those children who have passed away;\n\nWithin Hospital Care and Community – from issues in community/primary care, urgent and emergency care, paediatric surgery to the need for networked approaches and accurate data to better manage the needs of children and young people in NI;\n\nThe strategies were introduced in part to introduce a new way of working in children’s health care services to meet the demands of a system in the 21st century with increasing demands upon the system and advancements in how conditions are now treated. These strategies offer the means to change how our healthcare services for children and young people are delivered and ultimately improve waiting list demands.\n\nthe reasons behind the 172.6 per cent increase in these lists from June 2016 to June 2023;\n\nWhilst both strategies were published in 2016 additional funding to help implement the objectives were not available until 2019, and of course the funding provided was only to start to implement the strategy, more funding is required to fully implement the strategy. From this point the system worked collectively to find means to implement systemic change on how services are delivered for children and young people which would have had also had positive implications on waiting lists.\n\nHowever, with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 this had a huge impact on children and young people across NI. Whilst the pandemic didn’t have serious clinical implications for the vast majority of children and young people they were impacted by many of the indirect implications of the pandemic. This included access to school and many of the societal things that children need to thrive.\n\nDuring the period many children’s health care services were suspended and only the most urgent/emergency clinics continued. Clinicians identified innovative ways to manage the lists, for example using virtual platforms, etc. but undoubtedly this period was a major factor in the huge increase on waiting lists both in terms of new presentations as well as those already on lists.\n\nSince 2021 the Trusts have worked to try and alleviate some of the pressures faced by the service. Regional workshops on community paediatrics and paediatric surgery were held to identify means to improve the services provided for children and young people and identify actions to address these needs.\n\nSome paediatric surgery lists are now being carried out in District General Hospitals across NI and discussions around regional waiting lists have been held for some conditions and the DOH “Getting it Right First Time” project will address areas such as paediatric orthopaedic surgery.\n\nConsultation was also held across the system throughout 2021 on lessons from the pandemic as well as the key issues facing the service and the issues facing children and young people and it was agreed that a system wide change in how services could be delivered was needed.\n\nThis has resulted in the agreement that a Child Health Partnership Programme Board be convened that includes strategic leadership across the HSC. This group, if given the necessary support and scope required could offer the means to make a systemic change to how children’s and young people’s health services are delivered in NI, thus ultimately improving outcomes for children and young people. However, funding constraints may limit what can be achieved here.\n\nhis assessment of the long-term risks to a child’s future mental and physical health if conditions are not treated as a child, relative to those of an adult.\n\nIt is known that a prolonged period on a waiting list can have lasting impacts on a child. This may include both physical issues, such as prolonged pain and discomfort through to the potential for lasting physical issues.\n\nProlonged periods on a waiting list can also impact psychologically, this is worrying for the child and family, and will also affect societal issues as a child may not be able to fully engage in their normal activities due to a health issue. It is therefore crucial we find a means to address this.\n\nThe RCPCH “Worried and Waiting” report highlights the issues facing children and young people and builds on a similar report “More than A Number” by the NI Children’s Commissioner Office in 2021.\n\nHowever, I hope that with the necessary support over the coming months we can introduce the necessary systemic changes required within the service to ensure that we can begin the process to improve health outcomes for children and young people across NI. The will be challenging with the current funding constraints.","answerHtml":"The issue of children on prolonged outpatient waiting lists is something that is of high importance to me. Unfortunately, longer waiting lists are something which has been experienced by paediatric and adult services regularly in Northern Ireland. The RCPCH “Worried and Waiting” Report highlights the key issues facing the service but also means to address same. Many of these recommendations also reflect the key priorities of my department.
the steps being taken to reduce waiting lists for children’s outpatient appointments, particularly in relation to the recommendations from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Children’s Health
My department published the Paediatric Palliative and End of Life Care Strategy and the Strategy for Paediatric Healthcare Services in Hospitals and in the Community in 2016. Both strategies were completed after considerable consultation with all relevant stakeholders across the sector in NI and beyond to ensure they were as comprehensive as possible;
In each strategy there are 23 ambitious objectives that cover a wide range of issues: -
Within paediatric palliative care, from diagnosis of a palliative or life limited condition through to bereavement support for families of those children who have passed away;
Within Hospital Care and Community – from issues in community/primary care, urgent and emergency care, paediatric surgery to the need for networked approaches and accurate data to better manage the needs of children and young people in NI;
The strategies were introduced in part to introduce a new way of working in children’s health care services to meet the demands of a system in the 21st century with increasing demands upon the system and advancements in how conditions are now treated. These strategies offer the means to change how our healthcare services for children and young people are delivered and ultimately improve waiting list demands.
the reasons behind the 172.6 per cent increase in these lists from June 2016 to June 2023;
Whilst both strategies were published in 2016 additional funding to help implement the objectives were not available until 2019, and of course the funding provided was only to start to implement the strategy, more funding is required to fully implement the strategy. From this point the system worked collectively to find means to implement systemic change on how services are delivered for children and young people which would have had also had positive implications on waiting lists.
However, with the arrival of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 this had a huge impact on children and young people across NI. Whilst the pandemic didn’t have serious clinical implications for the vast majority of children and young people they were impacted by many of the indirect implications of the pandemic. This included access to school and many of the societal things that children need to thrive.
During the period many children’s health care services were suspended and only the most urgent/emergency clinics continued. Clinicians identified innovative ways to manage the lists, for example using virtual platforms, etc. but undoubtedly this period was a major factor in the huge increase on waiting lists both in terms of new presentations as well as those already on lists.
Since 2021 the Trusts have worked to try and alleviate some of the pressures faced by the service. Regional workshops on community paediatrics and paediatric surgery were held to identify means to improve the services provided for children and young people and identify actions to address these needs.
Some paediatric surgery lists are now being carried out in District General Hospitals across NI and discussions around regional waiting lists have been held for some conditions and the DOH “Getting it Right First Time” project will address areas such as paediatric orthopaedic surgery.
Consultation was also held across the system throughout 2021 on lessons from the pandemic as well as the key issues facing the service and the issues facing children and young people and it was agreed that a system wide change in how services could be delivered was needed.
This has resulted in the agreement that a Child Health Partnership Programme Board be convened that includes strategic leadership across the HSC. This group, if given the necessary support and scope required could offer the means to make a systemic change to how children’s and young people’s health services are delivered in NI, thus ultimately improving outcomes for children and young people. However, funding constraints may limit what can be achieved here.
his assessment of the long-term risks to a child’s future mental and physical health if conditions are not treated as a child, relative to those of an adult.
It is known that a prolonged period on a waiting list can have lasting impacts on a child. This may include both physical issues, such as prolonged pain and discomfort through to the potential for lasting physical issues.
Prolonged periods on a waiting list can also impact psychologically, this is worrying for the child and family, and will also affect societal issues as a child may not be able to fully engage in their normal activities due to a health issue. It is therefore crucial we find a means to address this.
The RCPCH “Worried and Waiting” report highlights the issues facing children and young people and builds on a similar report “More than A Number” by the NI Children’s Commissioner Office in 2021.
However, I hope that with the necessary support over the coming months we can introduce the necessary systemic changes required within the service to ensure that we can begin the process to improve health outcomes for children and young people across NI. The will be challenging with the current funding constraints.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011168%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399781","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399781"}},{"id":"399780","reference":"AQW 11167/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any ongoing work with the Department for Infrastructure to remedy issues with wastewater limitations and planning procedures; and (ii) the areas where these issues are less problematic so that the development of private and social housing in alternative areas can be pursued in the short-term.","answerText":"Through my Department’s work to develop a draft housing supply strategy, wastewater constraints and the planning system were identified as key issues. Department for Infrastructure officials have been involved throughout the strategy development process, including through representation on the project board overseeing strategy work. I am working to finalise the strategy with the intention of bringing it to the Executive as soon as possible.\n\nPrior to this, I intend to write to the Infrastructure Minister, seeking support for the strategy and a commitment for the Departments to work closely together on these issues.\n\nIn terms of areas potentially impacted by wastewater constraints, NI Water provides online updates advising of catchments where negative planning responses may be provided by it, in consideration of applications. These updates can be accessed at: www.niwater.com/capacity-information/","answerHtml":"Through my Department’s work to develop a draft housing supply strategy, wastewater constraints and the planning system were identified as key issues. Department for Infrastructure officials have been involved throughout the strategy development process, including through representation on the project board overseeing strategy work. I am working to finalise the strategy with the intention of bringing it to the Executive as soon as possible.
Prior to this, I intend to write to the Infrastructure Minister, seeking support for the strategy and a commitment for the Departments to work closely together on these issues.
In terms of areas potentially impacted by wastewater constraints, NI Water provides online updates advising of catchments where negative planning responses may be provided by it, in consideration of applications. These updates can be accessed at: www.niwater.com/capacity-information/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011167%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399780","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399780"}},{"id":"399779","reference":"AQW 11166/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-05-01","answerBy":"2024-05-17","answered":"2024-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the amount spent on repairing potholes and similar road defects between April 2018 and the end of March 2023, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information in the format requested, however I can provide you with details of Structural Maintenance spend by council area which includes the cost for repairing potholes.\n\nTable 1 below sets out the amount of money the Department has spent on Resource and Capital Structural Maintenance, in the period 1 April 18 to 31 March 2023 by financial year.\n\nTable 1: Total Structural Maintenance (Resource & Capital) by District Council Area – Financial Years 2018-19 to 2022-23\n\nDistrict Council\tStructural Maintenance\tYear\n18-19\tYear\n19-20\tYear\n20-21\tYear\n21-22\tYear\n22-23\nFigures in £m\nBelfast City Council\tResource\t1.4\t1.2\t1.8\t1.7\t1.8\nCapital\t7.8\t7.1\t5.3\t6.1\t8.4\nTotal\t9.2\t8.3\t7.1\t7.8\t10.2\nLisburn & Castlereagh City Council\tResource\t0.8\t0.7\t0.8\t1.0\t1.0\nCapital\t5.5\t5.9\t5.1\t7.9\t6.5\nTotal\t6.3\t6.6\t5.9\t8.9\t7.5\nAntrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council\tResource\t1.3\t0.5\t1.1\t1.0\t0.6\nCapital\t5.2\t4.8\t2.8\t6.1\t7.3\nTotal\t6.5\t5.3\t3.9\t7.1\t7.9\nMid & East Antrim Borough Council\tResource\t1.3\t1.1\t1.8\t1.4\t1.8\nCapital\t7.2\t8.6\t7.2\t10.1\t8.6\nTotal\t8.5\t9.7\t9.0\t11.5\t10.4\nCauseway Coast & Glens Borough Council\tResource\t1.5\t1.1\t1.2\t1.3\t1.1\nCapital\t9.1\t9.9\t10.3\t10.1\t10.3\nTotal\t10.6\t11.0\t11.5\t11.4\t11.4\nDerry City & Strabane District Council\tResource\t1.3\t1.1\t1.0\t1.2\t1.6\nCapital\t7.8\t8.2\t6.7\t6.5\t9.8\nTotal\t9.1\t9.3\t7.7\t7.7\t11.4\nMid Ulster District Council\tResource\t1.9\t1.9\t2.3\t1.6\t1.7\nCapital\t9.7\t10.5\t9.8\t8.6\t19.8\nTotal\t11.6\t12.4\t12.1\t10.2\t21.5\nFermanagh and Omagh District Council\tResource\t2.1\t1.9\t3.1\t1.7\t1.6\nCapital\t12.2\t11.0\t11.0\t9.7\t11.1\nTotal\t14.3\t12.9\t14.1\t11.4\t12.7\nArds & North Down Borough Council\tResource\t0.4\t0.5\t0.5\t0.5\t0.7\nCapital\t4.9\t4.1\t4.5\t5.4\t2.3\nTotal\t5.3\t4.6\t5.0\t5.9\t3.0\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council\tResource\t2.6\t2.3\t2.7\t2.5\t2.4\nCapital\t12.0\t10.3\t9.7\t10.9\t9.5\nTotal\t14.6\t12.6\t12.4\t13.4\t11.9\nNewry, Mourne and Down District Council\tResource\t2.1\t1.8\t1.9\t2.2\t2.1\nCapital\t10.5\t11.9\t9.9\t7.2\t17.4\nTotal\t12.6\t13.6\t11.8\t9.4\t19.5\n\nCapital Structural Maintenance includes resurfacing and reconstruction, asphalt patching, surface dressing, capital investment in both drainage infrastructure and in the structural stability of embankments. Resource Structural Maintenance covers patching of carriageway and footways.\n\nExpenditure will have been determined by budget availability and capacity in a given year.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information in the format requested, however I can provide you with details of Structural Maintenance spend by council area which includes the cost for repairing potholes.
Table 1 below sets out the amount of money the Department has spent on Resource and Capital Structural Maintenance, in the period 1 April 18 to 31 March 2023 by financial year.
Table 1: Total Structural Maintenance (Resource & Capital) by District Council Area – Financial Years 2018-19 to 2022-23
| District Council | Structural Maintenance | Year 18-19 | Year 19-20 | Year 20-21 | Year 21-22 | Year 22-23 |
| Figures in £m | ||||||
| Belfast City Council | Resource | 1.4 | 1.2 | 1.8 | 1.7 | 1.8 |
| Capital | 7.8 | 7.1 | 5.3 | 6.1 | 8.4 | |
| Total | 9.2 | 8.3 | 7.1 | 7.8 | 10.2 | |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh City Council | Resource | 0.8 | 0.7 | 0.8 | 1.0 | 1.0 |
| Capital | 5.5 | 5.9 | 5.1 | 7.9 | 6.5 | |
| Total | 6.3 | 6.6 | 5.9 | 8.9 | 7.5 | |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey Borough Council | Resource | 1.3 | 0.5 | 1.1 | 1.0 | 0.6 |
| Capital | 5.2 | 4.8 | 2.8 | 6.1 | 7.3 | |
| Total | 6.5 | 5.3 | 3.9 | 7.1 | 7.9 | |
| Mid & East Antrim Borough Council | Resource | 1.3 | 1.1 | 1.8 | 1.4 | 1.8 |
| Capital | 7.2 | 8.6 | 7.2 | 10.1 | 8.6 | |
| Total | 8.5 | 9.7 | 9.0 | 11.5 | 10.4 | |
| Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council | Resource | 1.5 | 1.1 | 1.2 | 1.3 | 1.1 |
| Capital | 9.1 | 9.9 | 10.3 | 10.1 | 10.3 | |
| Total | 10.6 | 11.0 | 11.5 | 11.4 | 11.4 | |
| Derry City & Strabane District Council | Resource | 1.3 | 1.1 | 1.0 | 1.2 | 1.6 |
| Capital | 7.8 | 8.2 | 6.7 | 6.5 | 9.8 | |
| Total | 9.1 | 9.3 | 7.7 | 7.7 | 11.4 | |
| Mid Ulster District Council | Resource | 1.9 | 1.9 | 2.3 | 1.6 | 1.7 |
| Capital | 9.7 | 10.5 | 9.8 | 8.6 | 19.8 | |
| Total | 11.6 | 12.4 | 12.1 | 10.2 | 21.5 | |
| Fermanagh and Omagh District Council | Resource | 2.1 | 1.9 | 3.1 | 1.7 | 1.6 |
| Capital | 12.2 | 11.0 | 11.0 | 9.7 | 11.1 | |
| Total | 14.3 | 12.9 | 14.1 | 11.4 | 12.7 | |
| Ards & North Down Borough Council | Resource | 0.4 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.5 | 0.7 |
| Capital | 4.9 | 4.1 | 4.5 | 5.4 | 2.3 | |
| Total | 5.3 | 4.6 | 5.0 | 5.9 | 3.0 | |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council | Resource | 2.6 | 2.3 | 2.7 | 2.5 | 2.4 |
| Capital | 12.0 | 10.3 | 9.7 | 10.9 | 9.5 | |
| Total | 14.6 | 12.6 | 12.4 | 13.4 | 11.9 | |
| Newry, Mourne and Down District Council | Resource | 2.1 | 1.8 | 1.9 | 2.2 | 2.1 |
| Capital | 10.5 | 11.9 | 9.9 | 7.2 | 17.4 | |
| Total | 12.6 | 13.6 | 11.8 | 9.4 | 19.5 |
Capital Structural Maintenance includes resurfacing and reconstruction, asphalt patching, surface dressing, capital investment in both drainage infrastructure and in the structural stability of embankments. Resource Structural Maintenance covers patching of carriageway and footways.
Expenditure will have been determined by budget availability and capacity in a given year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011166%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399779","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399779"}},{"id":"399579","reference":"AQW 11068/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-30","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the repercussions, from this summer onwards, for (i) Lough Neagh; (ii) downstream waterways from Lough Neagh; and (iii) the north coast should plans to address pollution and blue-green algae levels not be initiated.","answerText":"My Department is already taking forward a range of work aimed at addressing the problems at the Lough. I advised you of some of this work in my response to AQW 5594/22-27.\n\nIt is widely accepted that the blue-green algae blooms which were seen in watercourses across Northern Ireland last year, particularly in Lough Neagh, are highly likely to recur both in 2024 and in subsequent years.\n\n& (iii) This will have serious implications for not only the Lough itself but for downstream waterways and north coast beaches.\n\nI have made it clear that my assessment is that there are no quick fixes to the occurrence and probable re-occurrence of blue-green algae blooms and that we need to work collectively to secure longer term improvements in water quality across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department is already taking forward a range of work aimed at addressing the problems at the Lough. I advised you of some of this work in my response to AQW 5594/22-27.
It is widely accepted that the blue-green algae blooms which were seen in watercourses across Northern Ireland last year, particularly in Lough Neagh, are highly likely to recur both in 2024 and in subsequent years.
& (iii) This will have serious implications for not only the Lough itself but for downstream waterways and north coast beaches.
I have made it clear that my assessment is that there are no quick fixes to the occurrence and probable re-occurrence of blue-green algae blooms and that we need to work collectively to secure longer term improvements in water quality across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011068%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399579"}},{"id":"399578","reference":"AQW 11067/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-30","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on steps to improve pay and conditions for care workers; and (ii) for his assessment of how these improvements will make the job more attractive to the most appropriate, trained and experienced carers.","answerText":"I refer the Member to the answers to AQW 8598/22-27 and AQW 10765/22-27.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to the answers to AQW 8598/22-27 and AQW 10765/22-27.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011067%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399578"}},{"id":"399577","reference":"AQW 11066/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-30","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any plans to adopt and oversee a joined-up approach to security at hospitals to best protect staff from aggressive or violent patients or visitors; and (ii) how a policy of more prevention rather than cure in terms of violence in hospitals may be established.","answerText":"(i) All HSC Trusts strive to provide a joined-up approach to security on hospital sites. This includes employing dedicated security staff who maintain static posts and perform routine patrols to help deter incidents but also to respond urgently to all requests for assistance with violent and aggressive persons as best possible.\n\nCCTV and access control systems are also in place on many sites as an additional deterrent to detect and deny unauthorised entry.\n\nSecurity staff, supervisors and management participate in meetings and sit on specific groups with internal stakeholders such as clinical staff, ward and department managers, clerical and reception staff, estates, pharmacists, social workers, H&S teams, trainers and Unions etc, where security policies are considered and reviewed.\n\nTrusts also engage with external stakeholders such as local community groups, drug and homelessness outreach organisations and PSNI Neighbourhood Policing teams along with crime prevention liaison officers. Challenging behaviours and incidents are examined to provide practical advice and support to staff.\n\n(ii) On 12 December 2023 my Department launched a new Management of Violence and Aggression in the Workplace HSC Framework. The purpose of this framework is to outline the HSC commitment in partnership with staff representatives, to ensure the prevention, reduction and management of violence and aggression towards staff in the workplace, and to ensure associated structures, policies and support are in place to enable staff to work safely.\n\nThis regional framework must form the basis of any policies and processes developed locally by the various HSC bodies in relation to dealing with such incidents in a diverse range of working environments. Each HSC employer will have differing arrangements in place, supported by appropriate risk assessments according to the setting.\n\nThe regional framework is accessible on the Department’s website.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hsc-afc-6-2023_0.pdf","answerHtml":"(i) All HSC Trusts strive to provide a joined-up approach to security on hospital sites. This includes employing dedicated security staff who maintain static posts and perform routine patrols to help deter incidents but also to respond urgently to all requests for assistance with violent and aggressive persons as best possible.
CCTV and access control systems are also in place on many sites as an additional deterrent to detect and deny unauthorised entry.
Security staff, supervisors and management participate in meetings and sit on specific groups with internal stakeholders such as clinical staff, ward and department managers, clerical and reception staff, estates, pharmacists, social workers, H&S teams, trainers and Unions etc, where security policies are considered and reviewed.
Trusts also engage with external stakeholders such as local community groups, drug and homelessness outreach organisations and PSNI Neighbourhood Policing teams along with crime prevention liaison officers. Challenging behaviours and incidents are examined to provide practical advice and support to staff.
(ii) On 12 December 2023 my Department launched a new Management of Violence and Aggression in the Workplace HSC Framework. The purpose of this framework is to outline the HSC commitment in partnership with staff representatives, to ensure the prevention, reduction and management of violence and aggression towards staff in the workplace, and to ensure associated structures, policies and support are in place to enable staff to work safely.
This regional framework must form the basis of any policies and processes developed locally by the various HSC bodies in relation to dealing with such incidents in a diverse range of working environments. Each HSC employer will have differing arrangements in place, supported by appropriate risk assessments according to the setting.
The regional framework is accessible on the Department’s website.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-hsc-afc-6-2023_0.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011066%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399577"}},{"id":"399576","reference":"AQW 11065/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-30","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what steps he is taking to ensure that increasing profits made by major supermarket retailers are reflected in the prices paid to Northern Ireland farmers; and (ii) for his assessment of the current economic situation of family-owned farms.","answerText":"The regulation of contractual relationships, and other related competition issues (e.g. pricing) is a reserved matter. The UK government has been undertaking a series of reviews to help improve transparency and fairness in agreements between UK buyers and farmers and Defra has recently introduced new legislation to mandate minimum contractual terms in the UK dairy sector. My department will continue to work closely with Defra, and with the Scottish and Welsh governments, as this supply chain work progresses.\n\nThe economic situation of family-owned farms will be shown within my Departments ‘NI Agricultural Incomes 2023’ release which is due to be published soon.","answerHtml":"The regulation of contractual relationships, and other related competition issues (e.g. pricing) is a reserved matter. The UK government has been undertaking a series of reviews to help improve transparency and fairness in agreements between UK buyers and farmers and Defra has recently introduced new legislation to mandate minimum contractual terms in the UK dairy sector. My department will continue to work closely with Defra, and with the Scottish and Welsh governments, as this supply chain work progresses.
The economic situation of family-owned farms will be shown within my Departments ‘NI Agricultural Incomes 2023’ release which is due to be published soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011065%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399576"}},{"id":"399575","reference":"AQW 11064/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-30","answerBy":"2024-05-16","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the steps they (i) have taken; and (ii) will take to ensure the relevant religious institutions contribute financially to the redress scheme in recognition of their role in the historical institutional abuse of children.","answerText":"On 28 July 2021 Mr Paul Sweeney was appointed as an Independent Facilitator to take forward negotiations with the six voluntary institutions. Following a meeting between Ministers, the institutions and the Independent Facilitator in October 2021, Mr Sweeney drafted a framework for reaching an agreement between the Executive and the six voluntary institutions.\n\nMr Sweeney facilitated meetings with officials and the six institutions in April and May 2023 to discuss contributions and his proposed framework. Since then, there has been regular official-led engagement with the six institutions.\n\nThis engagement has included the production and scrutiny of accurate individual datasets for each institution, consideration of complex determinations where a victim or survivor may have been resident in multiple institutions, and consideration, on the basis of the Hart Report, of each institutions’ ability to pay and any payments or other outlay that the institutions may wish to be taken into account.\n\nWe met the Independent Facilitator last month for a positive discussion regarding the next stages of the process.\n\nConstructive discussions on appropriate contributions from the institutions are ongoing. As recommended by the Hart Report, if an agreement as to the amount to be paid cannot be reached, we will submit all issues to mediation. If mediation fails, then all remaining issues will be dealt with by agreeing with the relevant institutions to submit to binding arbitration.","answerHtml":"On 28 July 2021 Mr Paul Sweeney was appointed as an Independent Facilitator to take forward negotiations with the six voluntary institutions. Following a meeting between Ministers, the institutions and the Independent Facilitator in October 2021, Mr Sweeney drafted a framework for reaching an agreement between the Executive and the six voluntary institutions.
Mr Sweeney facilitated meetings with officials and the six institutions in April and May 2023 to discuss contributions and his proposed framework. Since then, there has been regular official-led engagement with the six institutions.
This engagement has included the production and scrutiny of accurate individual datasets for each institution, consideration of complex determinations where a victim or survivor may have been resident in multiple institutions, and consideration, on the basis of the Hart Report, of each institutions’ ability to pay and any payments or other outlay that the institutions may wish to be taken into account.
We met the Independent Facilitator last month for a positive discussion regarding the next stages of the process.
Constructive discussions on appropriate contributions from the institutions are ongoing. As recommended by the Hart Report, if an agreement as to the amount to be paid cannot be reached, we will submit all issues to mediation. If mediation fails, then all remaining issues will be dealt with by agreeing with the relevant institutions to submit to binding arbitration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011064%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399575"}},{"id":"399366","reference":"AQW 10994/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-29","answerBy":"2024-05-02","answered":"2024-05-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 31197/17-22, (i) when the outline business case for HMP Magilligan was submitted; (ii) to provide details on the outcome of this, including actions that will result and the associated timeframe; and (iii) whether funding is available and in place for the planned work.","answerText":"Approval for the associated expenditure in the Outline Business Case 1 (OBC) for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Prison Project was granted by Department of Finance (DoF) in May 2022.\n\nHowever, due to significant cost inflation, NIPS has determined that this work should proceed on a phased approach, determined by urgent business need, commencing with the preparation of OBC1s for a New Kitchen and Café and an additional wing at Halward House. Funding requirements for these projects will be informed by the OBC1s which are being progressed.\n\nFunding allocations will be determined by budget availability. All contractual commitments will have to be prioritised before other projects can be funded.","answerHtml":"Approval for the associated expenditure in the Outline Business Case 1 (OBC) for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Prison Project was granted by Department of Finance (DoF) in May 2022.
However, due to significant cost inflation, NIPS has determined that this work should proceed on a phased approach, determined by urgent business need, commencing with the preparation of OBC1s for a New Kitchen and Café and an additional wing at Halward House. Funding requirements for these projects will be informed by the OBC1s which are being progressed.
Funding allocations will be determined by budget availability. All contractual commitments will have to be prioritised before other projects can be funded.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010994%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399366"}},{"id":"399365","reference":"AQW 10993/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-29","answerBy":"2024-05-15","answered":"2024-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of whether concerns about the spread of zebra mussels, and their relationship with trout-stocking, could be mitigated by restocking in colder months when the water temperature drops below the 12 degree Celsius breeding level required for zebra mussels; and (ii) to detail the difference in risk between the currently halted movement of trout from fish farms and that of the currently permitted relocation of elvers to Lough Neagh from areas such as the Severn and Loire, which are considered to have high numbers of zebra mussels.","answerText":"A stocking protocol is being developed and reviewed for periods when zebra mussels veligers are not present. However, there is also a gap in our knowledge as to the life cycle of zebra mussels in Northern Ireland with scientific evidence suggesting zebra mussels may be spawning at temperatures exceeding 9oC. DAERA is currently considering how to address the knowledge gap.\n\nThe major risk associated with stocking live trout is in the river water that they would be transported in, as it may contain zebra mussel veligers. Elvers used for stocking from France are caught in the marine environment. Bio-security measures are also in place to transfer elvers to Lough Neagh. After capture, elvers are held in potable water. They are then removed from the water and placed into polyboxes. This is done \"dry\" with ice in their own slime before being transferred. Only one stocking has taken place from France for glass eels since the suspension of stocking from Movanagher was put in place.","answerHtml":"A stocking protocol is being developed and reviewed for periods when zebra mussels veligers are not present. However, there is also a gap in our knowledge as to the life cycle of zebra mussels in Northern Ireland with scientific evidence suggesting zebra mussels may be spawning at temperatures exceeding 9oC. DAERA is currently considering how to address the knowledge gap.
The major risk associated with stocking live trout is in the river water that they would be transported in, as it may contain zebra mussel veligers. Elvers used for stocking from France are caught in the marine environment. Bio-security measures are also in place to transfer elvers to Lough Neagh. After capture, elvers are held in potable water. They are then removed from the water and placed into polyboxes. This is done "dry" with ice in their own slime before being transferred. Only one stocking has taken place from France for glass eels since the suspension of stocking from Movanagher was put in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010993%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399365","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399365"}},{"id":"399364","reference":"AQW 10992/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-29","answerBy":"2024-05-15","answered":"2024-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the reason behind the cessation of trout stocking from the Movanagher hatchery; (ii) the impact this has on trout numbers in the Lower Bann; (iii) the impact this has on private fisheries such as the Loughinsholin Fish Farm; and (iv) what consideration he has given to reducing the fee charged for angling permits.","answerText":"After the identification of zebra mussels at Movanagher fish farm in June 2023, the Department suspended the movement of live fish from Movanagher to comply with the Wildlife Order (NI) 1985.\n\nThe Department does not stock the Lower Bann; it is a wild fishery.\n\nThe Department is currently withholding permission to move any live fish or aquatic species from the Lower Bann in order to comply with the Wildlife Order (NI) 1985. This includes Loughinsholin Fish Farm. Private angling fisheries can still purchase live fish from other fish farms in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.\n\nThe permit fee has not increased since 2016. A review of permits and licences is underway, and I will be considering options towards the end of 2024. I would also highlight that the DAERA game permit gives permission for the permit holder to fish a Public Angling Estate water, but it does not guarantee the stocking of fish into a water or the level of fish stocks within a water. This information is available to anglers on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"After the identification of zebra mussels at Movanagher fish farm in June 2023, the Department suspended the movement of live fish from Movanagher to comply with the Wildlife Order (NI) 1985.
The Department does not stock the Lower Bann; it is a wild fishery.
The Department is currently withholding permission to move any live fish or aquatic species from the Lower Bann in order to comply with the Wildlife Order (NI) 1985. This includes Loughinsholin Fish Farm. Private angling fisheries can still purchase live fish from other fish farms in Northern Ireland or the Republic of Ireland.
The permit fee has not increased since 2016. A review of permits and licences is underway, and I will be considering options towards the end of 2024. I would also highlight that the DAERA game permit gives permission for the permit holder to fish a Public Angling Estate water, but it does not guarantee the stocking of fish into a water or the level of fish stocks within a water. This information is available to anglers on the Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010992%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399364","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399364"}},{"id":"399363","reference":"AQW 10991/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-29","answerBy":"2024-05-15","answered":"2024-05-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his plans for integrating education on understanding and addressing intergenerational loneliness in the schools curriculum.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Curriculum provides a range of opportunities to address the issue of loneliness, in all its forms. Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU) and Learning for Life and Work (LLW) are statutory Areas of Learning within the curriculum. From foundation stage pupils can explore a range of topics including responsibilities and respect for self and others, social responsibility, forming healthy relations and the importance of family as a caring unit.\n\nAs with all Areas of Learning within the curriculum, it is a matter for teachers to decide which specific topics, including the incorporation of contemporary issues, should be covered to best suit the needs of their pupils. This flexibility presents opportunities to equip students with skills such as empathy, understanding and relationship building that can help to combat loneliness within our society through fostering meaningful connections across different age groups.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Curriculum provides a range of opportunities to address the issue of loneliness, in all its forms. Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU) and Learning for Life and Work (LLW) are statutory Areas of Learning within the curriculum. From foundation stage pupils can explore a range of topics including responsibilities and respect for self and others, social responsibility, forming healthy relations and the importance of family as a caring unit.
As with all Areas of Learning within the curriculum, it is a matter for teachers to decide which specific topics, including the incorporation of contemporary issues, should be covered to best suit the needs of their pupils. This flexibility presents opportunities to equip students with skills such as empathy, understanding and relationship building that can help to combat loneliness within our society through fostering meaningful connections across different age groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010991%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399363","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399363"}},{"id":"399362","reference":"AQW 10990/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-29","answerBy":"2024-05-15","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the work that has been carried out on addressing intergenerational loneliness; (ii) the work that is planned; (iii) the policies from other parts of the United Kingdom, in particular Wales and Scotland, that could be adopted in developing a loneliness strategy; and (iv) how this work will be funded and included in the forthcoming Programme for Government.","answerText":"Work to develop a Programme for Government which meets the needs of everyone in our society is moving forward quickly.\n\nWe know that everyone is likely to experience feelings of loneliness at some point in their lifetime and the effects of feeling lonely can negatively impact a person’s health, wellbeing and overall quality of life.\n\nThis policy area is being led by the Department of Health.","answerHtml":"Work to develop a Programme for Government which meets the needs of everyone in our society is moving forward quickly.
We know that everyone is likely to experience feelings of loneliness at some point in their lifetime and the effects of feeling lonely can negatively impact a person’s health, wellbeing and overall quality of life.
This policy area is being led by the Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010990%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399362","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399362"}},{"id":"399157","reference":"AQW 10915/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-26","answerBy":"2024-05-14","answered":"2024-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they will (i) acknowledge the ageing population by including proposals to meet their needs in the Programme for Government, with specific regard to (a) healthcare; (b) loneliness; (c) poverty; (d) healthy ageing; and (e) public transport; and (ii) include older people and their representative groups in creating such policies.","answerText":"Work to develop a Programme for Government which meets the needs of everyone in our society, whatever their age, is moving forward quickly.\n\nWe know that the proportion of our population over the age of 65 is increasing rapidly, and this will change how we deliver public services that support older people.\n\nWe hope to make it available to the Assembly for scrutiny soon.","answerHtml":"Work to develop a Programme for Government which meets the needs of everyone in our society, whatever their age, is moving forward quickly.
We know that the proportion of our population over the age of 65 is increasing rapidly, and this will change how we deliver public services that support older people.
We hope to make it available to the Assembly for scrutiny soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010915%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399157"}},{"id":"399156","reference":"AQW 10914/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-26","answerBy":"2024-05-14","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the opportunities for older people living in rural areas, in particular in East Londonderry, to access help and support to improve online skills such as (a) cyber security; and (b) online banking; and (ii) how he is ensuring that older people are not disadvantaged in terms of accessing goods, services and facilities due to a lack of this knowledge.","answerText":"DIGITAL INCLUSION\n\nMy Department has a small Digital Inclusion Unit to promote online services and to give people here the skills, confidence, motivation and trust to navigate the online world. The aim is to promote a digitally inclusive society and increase the use of online channels to access our public services through a range of projects by working in close partnership with a number of public and private organisations to help digitally excluded people get online.\n\nThe Digital Inclusion team’s current Go ON NI programme enables the public to use Government services online. The programme has been very successful, and it continues to grow by targeting events and promotional activities at the harder to reach digitally excluded sections of the population here.\n\nThese key groups include:\n\n•rural communities\n\n•those aged over 50\n\n•people with physical or mental impairment\n\n•socio-economic disadvantaged communities\n\n•long-term unemployed\n\nThe Go ON NI programme ensures rural and older communities are not excluded from accessing information and services by working with various organisations to recruit digital champions, providing tuition, and detailing the help that is available to assist these communities in accessing online services. The programme provides free digital training sessions in libraries, community centres and hubs.\n\nThese digital skills sessions can help anyone go online for the first time or improve their skills. The Digital Inclusion Team are also pro-active members of the Digital Assist Steering Group, a cross-sectoral body chaired by Business in the Community which helps ensure that government services are not delivered in isolation through appropriate interaction with organisations from across the private, voluntary and community sectors. There is also a working partnership with the Age Friendly Networks in all council areas.\n\nA number of events have taken place recently, including sessions in Dungiven (Glor Hall) and in Limavady Library. The three events in Dungiven covered online shopping, online safety and a session with Danske Bank.\n\nDuring Positive ageing month and Get Online week in October 2023, as well as Spring Online week in May 2024, digital information events were held in several libraries. In addition, all 96 libraries run Go ON & GOT IT sessions which are free to attend, throughout the year.\n\nMy Department also has responsibility for the NI Cybersecurity Centre, which works with public, private, third sector organisations and citizens to improve their ability to defend against cyber attacks, increase their knowledge of cyber threats, and become more cyber resilient. The website contains useful advice and guidance to help improve cyber security awareness for the general public.\n\nWe recognise that public services are increasingly moving towards the provision of information and delivery of services through online, web-based and digital platforms, and the Digital Inclusion team aims to help and support people through this transition.\n\nFor more information on digital inclusion activities, please contact officials in the Digital Inclusion team at future@finance-ni.gov.uk","answerHtml":"DIGITAL INCLUSION
My Department has a small Digital Inclusion Unit to promote online services and to give people here the skills, confidence, motivation and trust to navigate the online world. The aim is to promote a digitally inclusive society and increase the use of online channels to access our public services through a range of projects by working in close partnership with a number of public and private organisations to help digitally excluded people get online.
The Digital Inclusion team’s current Go ON NI programme enables the public to use Government services online. The programme has been very successful, and it continues to grow by targeting events and promotional activities at the harder to reach digitally excluded sections of the population here.
These key groups include:
•rural communities
•those aged over 50
•people with physical or mental impairment
•socio-economic disadvantaged communities
•long-term unemployed
The Go ON NI programme ensures rural and older communities are not excluded from accessing information and services by working with various organisations to recruit digital champions, providing tuition, and detailing the help that is available to assist these communities in accessing online services. The programme provides free digital training sessions in libraries, community centres and hubs.
These digital skills sessions can help anyone go online for the first time or improve their skills. The Digital Inclusion Team are also pro-active members of the Digital Assist Steering Group, a cross-sectoral body chaired by Business in the Community which helps ensure that government services are not delivered in isolation through appropriate interaction with organisations from across the private, voluntary and community sectors. There is also a working partnership with the Age Friendly Networks in all council areas.
A number of events have taken place recently, including sessions in Dungiven (Glor Hall) and in Limavady Library. The three events in Dungiven covered online shopping, online safety and a session with Danske Bank.
During Positive ageing month and Get Online week in October 2023, as well as Spring Online week in May 2024, digital information events were held in several libraries. In addition, all 96 libraries run Go ON & GOT IT sessions which are free to attend, throughout the year.
My Department also has responsibility for the NI Cybersecurity Centre, which works with public, private, third sector organisations and citizens to improve their ability to defend against cyber attacks, increase their knowledge of cyber threats, and become more cyber resilient. The website contains useful advice and guidance to help improve cyber security awareness for the general public.
We recognise that public services are increasingly moving towards the provision of information and delivery of services through online, web-based and digital platforms, and the Digital Inclusion team aims to help and support people through this transition.
For more information on digital inclusion activities, please contact officials in the Digital Inclusion team at future@finance-ni.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010914%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399156","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399156"}},{"id":"399155","reference":"AQW 10913/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-26","answerBy":"2024-05-14","answered":"2024-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to (i) ensure older people can access GP services in a timely way; and (ii) allay fears that they may not be able to do so.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of access to GP services for all patients, including older people. GP services have been experiencing sustained, high levels of demand since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Practices have therefore continued to adapt how services are delivered in response to increasing pressures.\n\nIn the region of 55% of consultations remain face to face, accommodating those patients less familiar with or without access to alternative technology. However, in response to increasing patient demand GPs are utilising a mixed consultation model with telephone consultations, video and face to face consultations as a means of managing the rising demand on services within the existing workforce while retaining responsiveness to those patients who need the most urgent attention and care.\n\nAdditional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. These include focusing on increasing capacity to meet the demand from patients through, for example, reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in primary care, investment in general practice and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working, including making greater use of technology and telephony.\n\nAs part of supporting work in this area, my Department established a GP Access Working Group, which includes GP and service-user representation, to explore issues around accessing services and to oversee work to improve the experience for patients.\n\nIt is essential that we continue to use of all the tools at our disposal to ensure that we can help our services to work as effectively as possible to meet the need for access to primary care support and treatment.\n\nIt is also worth noting that GPs are independent contractors who provide primary medical services to their registered list of patients under the terms of the General Medical Services Contracts Regulations. As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. This also means that decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of access to GP services for all patients, including older people. GP services have been experiencing sustained, high levels of demand since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Practices have therefore continued to adapt how services are delivered in response to increasing pressures.
In the region of 55% of consultations remain face to face, accommodating those patients less familiar with or without access to alternative technology. However, in response to increasing patient demand GPs are utilising a mixed consultation model with telephone consultations, video and face to face consultations as a means of managing the rising demand on services within the existing workforce while retaining responsiveness to those patients who need the most urgent attention and care.
Additional measures have been put in place to support primary care to adapt flexibly to increasing demand. These include focusing on increasing capacity to meet the demand from patients through, for example, reinforcing the GP workforce and increasing the range of healthcare professionals working in primary care, investment in general practice and the implementation of new and innovative ways of working, including making greater use of technology and telephony.
As part of supporting work in this area, my Department established a GP Access Working Group, which includes GP and service-user representation, to explore issues around accessing services and to oversee work to improve the experience for patients.
It is essential that we continue to use of all the tools at our disposal to ensure that we can help our services to work as effectively as possible to meet the need for access to primary care support and treatment.
It is also worth noting that GPs are independent contractors who provide primary medical services to their registered list of patients under the terms of the General Medical Services Contracts Regulations. As independent contractors and clinical professionals, GPs are responsible for making appropriate decisions about the treatment, care and management of individual patients. This also means that decisions about the day to day running of the surgery, including the use of technology, telephony and the appointment system, are determined locally by the GP practice within the constraints of their available workforce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010913%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399155","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399155"}},{"id":"399154","reference":"AQW 10912/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-26","answerBy":"2024-05-14","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on steps being taken to assist older people to access (i) local banks in person; and (ii) online banking, following cross-departmentally facilitated and funded classes on internet banking.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy does not have direct responsibility for financial services, as the regulation of financial services is a reserved matter.\n\nThe Department of Finance has a limited role in directly influencing decisions by local banks for the same reason, however, does have a lead role in engaging with them on banking matters.\n\nMinister Caoimhe Archibald MLA held a roundtable meeting with senior representatives from local banks on 1 May 2024. The Minister of Finance used this meeting to urge local banks to protect the local branch network and ensure communities, including older people, impacted by branch closures, are able to access banking services. The Minister also emphasised the importance of quickly rolling out further banking hubs in those areas left without bank branches.\n\nThe Finance Minister will continue to engage with banking representatives as well as the Credit Unions, Post Office, trade unions, business bodies, consumer and community organisations and also the Treasury and the regulatory authorities to see how the sector can best support customers.\n\nIn addition, the Department of Finance has a small Digital Inclusion team to promote online services and to give people the skills to navigate the online world. In 2023/24 The Go ON NI programme helped almost 7,000 people with digital training including sessions called “Organise Your Life Online” which included the topic of online banking.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy does not have direct responsibility for financial services, as the regulation of financial services is a reserved matter.
The Department of Finance has a limited role in directly influencing decisions by local banks for the same reason, however, does have a lead role in engaging with them on banking matters.
Minister Caoimhe Archibald MLA held a roundtable meeting with senior representatives from local banks on 1 May 2024. The Minister of Finance used this meeting to urge local banks to protect the local branch network and ensure communities, including older people, impacted by branch closures, are able to access banking services. The Minister also emphasised the importance of quickly rolling out further banking hubs in those areas left without bank branches.
The Finance Minister will continue to engage with banking representatives as well as the Credit Unions, Post Office, trade unions, business bodies, consumer and community organisations and also the Treasury and the regulatory authorities to see how the sector can best support customers.
In addition, the Department of Finance has a small Digital Inclusion team to promote online services and to give people the skills to navigate the online world. In 2023/24 The Go ON NI programme helped almost 7,000 people with digital training including sessions called “Organise Your Life Online” which included the topic of online banking.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010912%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399154","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399154"}},{"id":"399153","reference":"AQW 10911/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-26","answerBy":"2024-05-14","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how he will ensure workplaces (i) adopt age-inclusive policies; (ii) identify the factors that support older people in the workplace; and (iii) work to comprehensively establish these.","answerText":"Workers who are supported and valued in the workplace are happier, more productive and more likely to remain with their employer. As people continue to live longer, the number of older people within the workforce will continue to grow.\n\nAge is a protected characteristic under our human rights and equality legislation, therefore employment rights, entitlements and protections apply equally, regardless of age.\n\nMy department funds the Labour Relations Agency which provides an advice, guidance and early conciliation service for employers and their employees. This includes an employment document toolkit resource to assist employers in the drafting of workplace policies. We also provide information and guidance to support employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.\n\nFundamental employment and equality rights are ultimately enforceable through the Industrial and Fair Employment Tribunals if no agreed resolution of disputes can be reached, including matters concerning age related discrimination.\n\nAs part of the consultation to support the development of a Good Jobs Bill, I will be seeking views on enhanced rights to make a statutory flexible working request from the first day of employment and the introduction of a right to carer’s leave. These important policies will be available to employees of all ages, however they will be an important means of supporting older people to remain within or re-enter the workplace. Communication and engagement with groups representing the rights of older people, employees, employers and their representative bodies will be important to ensure any legislative changes are adopted by all employers.","answerHtml":"Workers who are supported and valued in the workplace are happier, more productive and more likely to remain with their employer. As people continue to live longer, the number of older people within the workforce will continue to grow.
Age is a protected characteristic under our human rights and equality legislation, therefore employment rights, entitlements and protections apply equally, regardless of age.
My department funds the Labour Relations Agency which provides an advice, guidance and early conciliation service for employers and their employees. This includes an employment document toolkit resource to assist employers in the drafting of workplace policies. We also provide information and guidance to support employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.
Fundamental employment and equality rights are ultimately enforceable through the Industrial and Fair Employment Tribunals if no agreed resolution of disputes can be reached, including matters concerning age related discrimination.
As part of the consultation to support the development of a Good Jobs Bill, I will be seeking views on enhanced rights to make a statutory flexible working request from the first day of employment and the introduction of a right to carer’s leave. These important policies will be available to employees of all ages, however they will be an important means of supporting older people to remain within or re-enter the workplace. Communication and engagement with groups representing the rights of older people, employees, employers and their representative bodies will be important to ensure any legislative changes are adopted by all employers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010911%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=399153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=399153"}},{"id":"398994","reference":"AQW 10852/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-25","answerBy":"2024-05-13","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) how he is engaging with and facilitating older people who want to work, remain in work or re-enter employment; (ii) how workplaces have been advised to better facilitate the needs and requirements of older workers; and (iii) his assessment of how, and in what ways, older workers can uniquely contribute to modern workplaces.","answerText":"Our ability to achieve a more prosperous and inclusive society is dependent upon the success of our economy. As people are living longer, the proportion of older people who are represented in our workforce is continuing to grow. Improving the quality of work through my good jobs agenda will provide for a more inclusive workforce.\n\nMy department has delivered age-specific interventions, such as the Ignite Your Skills pilot initiative, which targeted those aged 40+, and continues to support several initiatives which enable people of all ages to upskill or reskill, and thus improve their employability.\n\nMy department-led Skills, Equality Diversity and Inclusion (SEDI) sub-group considers the access and participation in skills and education of under-represented groups. The older age cohort is a specific focus of this sub-group.\n\nDfE Careers Service provides impartial and personalised advice and guidance on an all-age basis, delivered by professionally qualified Careers Advisers. The aim is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of age or ability, have access to independent careers guidance and advice which helps them to maximise their potential and contribute to their community and the local economy.\n\nCareers Advisers can help adults to explore their personal strengths, skills and abilities and explore opportunities for re-skilling and up-skilling, informed by the anticipated needs of the labour market. This includes opportunities such as All Age Apprenticeships which were introduced in September 2023 with the aim of encouraging more adults to undertake an apprenticeship.\n\nOpening apprenticeships to all will help to create more careers options for people of all ages, attract more adults back in the workplace, supporting inclusion and a culture of lifelong learning. It can also help address skills gaps in key sectors such as Health & Social Care, where the life experiences of older workers can be of particular benefit.\n\nOlder workers bring a wealth of experience which helps to foster a more diverse working environment and will help us to achieve our economic ambitions of increased employment and productivity. It is right therefore that those older people who wish to remain within or re-enter the workforce are able to do so freely.\n\nAge is a protected characteristic under our human rights and equality legislation: therefore employment rights, entitlements and protections apply equally, regardless of age. These rights are enforceable through the Industrial and Fair Employment Tribunals.\n\nMy department funds the Labour Relations Agency which provides an advice, guidance and early conciliation service. We also provide information and guidance to employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.\n\nFollowing a co-design and consultation process, it is my intention to bring forward an employment rights Bill within the current Assembly mandate to ensure the employment law framework remains fit for purpose and operates effectively for both businesses and workers. Groups representing the interests of older workers will be engaged as part of the consultation process.\n\nAll policies under consideration will be actively screened for equality impacts, including those impacting older workers. This will be an ongoing process at key stages throughout the policy development and legislative processes. My department has also engaged with the Equality Commission in that regard.\n\nWe will also continue to engage with stakeholders around creating a culture of lifelong learning, including determining how we can address the barriers to individuals and employers in taking part in lifelong learning opportunities.","answerHtml":"Our ability to achieve a more prosperous and inclusive society is dependent upon the success of our economy. As people are living longer, the proportion of older people who are represented in our workforce is continuing to grow. Improving the quality of work through my good jobs agenda will provide for a more inclusive workforce.
My department has delivered age-specific interventions, such as the Ignite Your Skills pilot initiative, which targeted those aged 40+, and continues to support several initiatives which enable people of all ages to upskill or reskill, and thus improve their employability.
My department-led Skills, Equality Diversity and Inclusion (SEDI) sub-group considers the access and participation in skills and education of under-represented groups. The older age cohort is a specific focus of this sub-group.
DfE Careers Service provides impartial and personalised advice and guidance on an all-age basis, delivered by professionally qualified Careers Advisers. The aim is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of age or ability, have access to independent careers guidance and advice which helps them to maximise their potential and contribute to their community and the local economy.
Careers Advisers can help adults to explore their personal strengths, skills and abilities and explore opportunities for re-skilling and up-skilling, informed by the anticipated needs of the labour market. This includes opportunities such as All Age Apprenticeships which were introduced in September 2023 with the aim of encouraging more adults to undertake an apprenticeship.
Opening apprenticeships to all will help to create more careers options for people of all ages, attract more adults back in the workplace, supporting inclusion and a culture of lifelong learning. It can also help address skills gaps in key sectors such as Health & Social Care, where the life experiences of older workers can be of particular benefit.
Older workers bring a wealth of experience which helps to foster a more diverse working environment and will help us to achieve our economic ambitions of increased employment and productivity. It is right therefore that those older people who wish to remain within or re-enter the workforce are able to do so freely.
Age is a protected characteristic under our human rights and equality legislation: therefore employment rights, entitlements and protections apply equally, regardless of age. These rights are enforceable through the Industrial and Fair Employment Tribunals.
My department funds the Labour Relations Agency which provides an advice, guidance and early conciliation service. We also provide information and guidance to employers and employees through the NI Direct and NIBusiness Info websites.
Following a co-design and consultation process, it is my intention to bring forward an employment rights Bill within the current Assembly mandate to ensure the employment law framework remains fit for purpose and operates effectively for both businesses and workers. Groups representing the interests of older workers will be engaged as part of the consultation process.
All policies under consideration will be actively screened for equality impacts, including those impacting older workers. This will be an ongoing process at key stages throughout the policy development and legislative processes. My department has also engaged with the Equality Commission in that regard.
We will also continue to engage with stakeholders around creating a culture of lifelong learning, including determining how we can address the barriers to individuals and employers in taking part in lifelong learning opportunities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010852%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398994"}},{"id":"398993","reference":"AQW 10851/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-25","answerBy":"2024-05-13","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the complaints procedure and analysis of complaints within a care home; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to create an independent advocacy service to oversee a resident’s complaints to ensure the complaints procedure is not solely overseen, assessed and acted upon by the care provider.","answerText":"Care home residents currently have the right to make a complaint under the extant HSC Complaints Procedure. Where a complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome of the HSC Complaints Procedure, they will be advised of their right to refer their complaint to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO).\n\nNIPSO can carry out independent investigations into complaints about poor treatment or service or the administrative actions of HSC organisations. NIPSO also has powers to investigate complaints about social care decisions.\n\nThe Patient and Client Council can also assist if people are unhappy with the outcome of a process or review or the way in which it was conducted and can assist people to make a complaint to a Health and Social Care organisation or a submission to NIPSO.\n\nSeparately, NIPSO is also progressing a programme of reform to create common complaints handling standards for all bodies across the public sector. My Department is committed to working closely with NIPSO, where appropriate, to deliver on this important programme of work.\n\nThe Department has no current plans to create an independent advocacy service.","answerHtml":"Care home residents currently have the right to make a complaint under the extant HSC Complaints Procedure. Where a complainant is dissatisfied with the outcome of the HSC Complaints Procedure, they will be advised of their right to refer their complaint to the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO).
NIPSO can carry out independent investigations into complaints about poor treatment or service or the administrative actions of HSC organisations. NIPSO also has powers to investigate complaints about social care decisions.
The Patient and Client Council can also assist if people are unhappy with the outcome of a process or review or the way in which it was conducted and can assist people to make a complaint to a Health and Social Care organisation or a submission to NIPSO.
Separately, NIPSO is also progressing a programme of reform to create common complaints handling standards for all bodies across the public sector. My Department is committed to working closely with NIPSO, where appropriate, to deliver on this important programme of work.
The Department has no current plans to create an independent advocacy service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010851%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398993"}},{"id":"398992","reference":"AQW 10850/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-25","answerBy":"2024-05-13","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) how he will ensure residents of care homes do not have their residency terminated for registering a complaint regarding the care they are receiving; and (ii) the obligations on Health and Social Care Trusts to advocate for and challenge care homes where residencies are terminated for non-valid reasons.","answerText":"The current Regional Care Home Contract sets out the circumstances under which a Provider can terminate a residency. These include instances where Providers assess they are no longer able to meet the needs of a Resident or where the behaviour of the Resident or any other circumstances relating to the Resident are materially detrimental to the safety and welfare of other Residents or the conduct of the Provider.\n\nTermination of any residency is always a last resort and all possible efforts will be made between the Resident (their relatives or representatives), the respective Trust and the Provider to resolve any issues that have arisen. Where this is not achievable and termination is the only remaining option, the Trust and the Provider will work together to ensure the needs of the Resident are met during this process.\n\nMy Department has established a Social Care Collaborative Forum (SCCF), the purpose of which is to provide a formal mechanism for the Department and representatives of the Social Care Sector, across the statutory, voluntary/community and private sectors, to work together as partners to build shared values and deliver improvements in social care.\n\nA Commissioning and Contracting Workstream has been set up under this Forum to review the existing Regional Care Home Contract which has been in place for a number of years. While this work is looking at the contract in its entirety it will also consider how a culture of human rights can be embedded in a revised Contract.\n\nThe review of the contract will consider all relevant learning from COPNI’s recently published report entitled, ‘Respecting Residents’ Rights in Care Homes: A Review of the Regional Care Home Contract’, along with similar recommendations relating to tenure agreements as set out within the report issued by the Independent Review Team into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home.\n\nAlongside the work of the Forum, and resulting from the Independent Review Team’s suite of Reports into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home, the NI Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO), through their Complaints Standards Team, intends to develop a range of training packages and guides for public bodies to support all those involved in complaints handling from senior managers through to front line staff. This training will be rolled out to care home providers as well as a number of other organisations, as a way of supporting and encouraging best practice.\n\nThis work will also see compliance monitoring ensuring those public sector bodies subject to the new arrangements are fulfilling all their responsibilities and complying with the new standards. My officials are in regular contact with NIPSO in relation to the development and implementation of this work.\n\nIt remains fundamental that residents and their families are able to complain where they have genuine concerns about the care provided within a care home without fear of retribution by a care home or its staff.","answerHtml":"The current Regional Care Home Contract sets out the circumstances under which a Provider can terminate a residency. These include instances where Providers assess they are no longer able to meet the needs of a Resident or where the behaviour of the Resident or any other circumstances relating to the Resident are materially detrimental to the safety and welfare of other Residents or the conduct of the Provider.
Termination of any residency is always a last resort and all possible efforts will be made between the Resident (their relatives or representatives), the respective Trust and the Provider to resolve any issues that have arisen. Where this is not achievable and termination is the only remaining option, the Trust and the Provider will work together to ensure the needs of the Resident are met during this process.
My Department has established a Social Care Collaborative Forum (SCCF), the purpose of which is to provide a formal mechanism for the Department and representatives of the Social Care Sector, across the statutory, voluntary/community and private sectors, to work together as partners to build shared values and deliver improvements in social care.
A Commissioning and Contracting Workstream has been set up under this Forum to review the existing Regional Care Home Contract which has been in place for a number of years. While this work is looking at the contract in its entirety it will also consider how a culture of human rights can be embedded in a revised Contract.
The review of the contract will consider all relevant learning from COPNI’s recently published report entitled, ‘Respecting Residents’ Rights in Care Homes: A Review of the Regional Care Home Contract’, along with similar recommendations relating to tenure agreements as set out within the report issued by the Independent Review Team into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home.
Alongside the work of the Forum, and resulting from the Independent Review Team’s suite of Reports into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home, the NI Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO), through their Complaints Standards Team, intends to develop a range of training packages and guides for public bodies to support all those involved in complaints handling from senior managers through to front line staff. This training will be rolled out to care home providers as well as a number of other organisations, as a way of supporting and encouraging best practice.
This work will also see compliance monitoring ensuring those public sector bodies subject to the new arrangements are fulfilling all their responsibilities and complying with the new standards. My officials are in regular contact with NIPSO in relation to the development and implementation of this work.
It remains fundamental that residents and their families are able to complain where they have genuine concerns about the care provided within a care home without fear of retribution by a care home or its staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010850%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398992"}},{"id":"398991","reference":"AQW 10849/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-25","answerBy":"2024-05-13","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the steps he is taking to strengthen the security of tenure for residents of private sector care homes and their human rights protections, within the Regional Care Home Contract, particularly in relation to the termination of residency; and (ii) any changes planned for the Regional Care Home Contract with a view to better safeguard the rights and wellbeing of care home residents.","answerText":"The current Regional Care Home Contract sets out the circumstances under which a Provider can terminate a residency. These include instances where Providers assess they are no longer able to meet the needs of a Resident or where the behaviour of the Resident or any other circumstances relating to the Resident are materially detrimental to the safety and welfare of other Residents or the conduct of the Provider.\n\nTermination of any residency is always a last resort and all possible efforts will be made between the Resident (their relatives or representatives), the respective Trust and the Provider to resolve any issues that have arisen. Where this is not achievable and termination is the only remaining option, the Trust and the Provider will work together to ensure the needs of the Resident are met during this process.\n\nMy Department has established a Social Care Collaborative Forum (SCCF), the purpose of which is to provide a formal mechanism for the Department and representatives of the Social Care Sector, across the statutory, voluntary/community and private sectors, to work together as partners to build shared values and deliver improvements in social care.\n\nA Commissioning and Contracting Workstream has been set up under this Forum to review the existing Regional Care Home Contract which has been in place for a number of years. While this work is looking at the contract in its entirety it will also consider how a culture of human rights can be embedded in a revised Contract.\n\nThe review of the contract will consider all relevant learning from COPNI’s recently published report entitled, ‘Respecting Residents’ Rights in Care Homes: A Review of the Regional Care Home Contract’, along with similar recommendations relating to tenure agreements as set out within the report issued by the Independent Review Team into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home.\n\nAlongside the work of the Forum, and resulting from the Independent Review Team’s suite of Reports into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home, the NI Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO), through their Complaints Standards Team, intends to develop a range of training packages and guides for public bodies to support all those involved in complaints handling from senior managers through to front line staff. This training will be rolled out to care home providers as well as a number of other organisations, as a way of supporting and encouraging best practice.\n\nThis work will also see compliance monitoring ensuring those public sector bodies subject to the new arrangements are fulfilling all their responsibilities and complying with the new standards. My officials are in regular contact with NIPSO in relation to the development and implementation of this work.\n\nIt remains fundamental that residents and their families are able to complain where they have genuine concerns about the care provided within a care home without fear of retribution by a care home or its staff.","answerHtml":"The current Regional Care Home Contract sets out the circumstances under which a Provider can terminate a residency. These include instances where Providers assess they are no longer able to meet the needs of a Resident or where the behaviour of the Resident or any other circumstances relating to the Resident are materially detrimental to the safety and welfare of other Residents or the conduct of the Provider.
Termination of any residency is always a last resort and all possible efforts will be made between the Resident (their relatives or representatives), the respective Trust and the Provider to resolve any issues that have arisen. Where this is not achievable and termination is the only remaining option, the Trust and the Provider will work together to ensure the needs of the Resident are met during this process.
My Department has established a Social Care Collaborative Forum (SCCF), the purpose of which is to provide a formal mechanism for the Department and representatives of the Social Care Sector, across the statutory, voluntary/community and private sectors, to work together as partners to build shared values and deliver improvements in social care.
A Commissioning and Contracting Workstream has been set up under this Forum to review the existing Regional Care Home Contract which has been in place for a number of years. While this work is looking at the contract in its entirety it will also consider how a culture of human rights can be embedded in a revised Contract.
The review of the contract will consider all relevant learning from COPNI’s recently published report entitled, ‘Respecting Residents’ Rights in Care Homes: A Review of the Regional Care Home Contract’, along with similar recommendations relating to tenure agreements as set out within the report issued by the Independent Review Team into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home.
Alongside the work of the Forum, and resulting from the Independent Review Team’s suite of Reports into events at Dunmurry Manor Care Home, the NI Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO), through their Complaints Standards Team, intends to develop a range of training packages and guides for public bodies to support all those involved in complaints handling from senior managers through to front line staff. This training will be rolled out to care home providers as well as a number of other organisations, as a way of supporting and encouraging best practice.
This work will also see compliance monitoring ensuring those public sector bodies subject to the new arrangements are fulfilling all their responsibilities and complying with the new standards. My officials are in regular contact with NIPSO in relation to the development and implementation of this work.
It remains fundamental that residents and their families are able to complain where they have genuine concerns about the care provided within a care home without fear of retribution by a care home or its staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010849%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398991"}},{"id":"398990","reference":"AQW 10848/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-25","answerBy":"2024-05-13","answered":"2024-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any steps she is taking to prevent the use of good character references in relation to those accused of sexual offences.","answerText":"I am aware of concerns around the use of good character references in court proceedings and am giving this matter my consideration. It will be important to take views from key stakeholders and also to learn from experiences in other jurisdictions to help inform my thinking.","answerHtml":"I am aware of concerns around the use of good character references in court proceedings and am giving this matter my consideration. It will be important to take views from key stakeholders and also to learn from experiences in other jurisdictions to help inform my thinking.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010848%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398990"}},{"id":"398807","reference":"AQW 10767/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the volume of sewage spills into waterways in each of the past five years, broken down by location; (ii) the reasons behind these spills; (iii) the work ongoing and needed in future to avoid these spills; and (iv) the impact such spills are having on (a) wildlife; (b) the environment; and (c) water quality for bathing.","answerText":"My Department does not hold data on the volume of wastewater discharges into waterways from Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), Emergency Overflows (EOs) nor Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTWs). These storm overflows are designed to operate in heavy rainfall conditions, when the wastewater in sewer networks is significantly diluted with stormwater, thereby preventing out of sewer flooding in properties.\n\nClimate change and heavy rainfall events exacerbate problems from sewerage infrastructure and agricultural runoff, presenting real challenges for both farmers, sewage infrastructure and water quality managers. The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is working with NI Water on its programme of installing and commissioning storm-overflow monitors and to ensure the data received is accurate and reliable. It is NIEA and NI Water’s intention to publish annual performance reports once accurate and reliable monitoring data is available.\n\nIt is recognised that both wastewater and agricultural run-off affect bathing water quality. Impacts of discharges from WwTWs contribute to excess nutrient loading (e.g. phosphorus), in our water environment and the above work will greatly assist in better understanding the impact of discharges on water quality and actions to address the issue.\n\nMy Department will also continue to conduct targeted studies to identify the sources at failing sites and ensure appropriate measures are implemented to improve water quality.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold data on the volume of wastewater discharges into waterways from Combined Sewer Overflows (CSOs), Emergency Overflows (EOs) nor Wastewater Treatment Works (WwTWs). These storm overflows are designed to operate in heavy rainfall conditions, when the wastewater in sewer networks is significantly diluted with stormwater, thereby preventing out of sewer flooding in properties.
Climate change and heavy rainfall events exacerbate problems from sewerage infrastructure and agricultural runoff, presenting real challenges for both farmers, sewage infrastructure and water quality managers. The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is working with NI Water on its programme of installing and commissioning storm-overflow monitors and to ensure the data received is accurate and reliable. It is NIEA and NI Water’s intention to publish annual performance reports once accurate and reliable monitoring data is available.
It is recognised that both wastewater and agricultural run-off affect bathing water quality. Impacts of discharges from WwTWs contribute to excess nutrient loading (e.g. phosphorus), in our water environment and the above work will greatly assist in better understanding the impact of discharges on water quality and actions to address the issue.
My Department will also continue to conduct targeted studies to identify the sources at failing sites and ensure appropriate measures are implemented to improve water quality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010767%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398807"}},{"id":"398806","reference":"AQW 10766/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the options available to his Department for reducing speeding in Drumsurn, County Londonderry; and (ii) the cross-departmental work he is planning to address this issue.","answerText":"Departmental officials are currently considering what, if any further engineering enhancements would help address the traffic issues in the village. Any proposals will be agreed with the PSNI Roads Policing Unit prior to implementation.\n\nMeanwhile concerns about driver behaviour such as speeding or other inconsiderate behaviour should be directed to the PSNI on their non-emergency 101 telephone number.\n\nOne of the best ways to ensure safety on our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury by 2050, is by changing road user behaviour. As road users we all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. The sad reality is that if we do not change our own attitudes when we are using the roads, our death toll will continue to increase.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials are currently considering what, if any further engineering enhancements would help address the traffic issues in the village. Any proposals will be agreed with the PSNI Roads Policing Unit prior to implementation.
Meanwhile concerns about driver behaviour such as speeding or other inconsiderate behaviour should be directed to the PSNI on their non-emergency 101 telephone number.
One of the best ways to ensure safety on our roads and fulfil our long-term goal of eliminating death and serious injury by 2050, is by changing road user behaviour. As road users we all have a personal responsibility to behave in a way that keeps ourselves and others safe. The sad reality is that if we do not change our own attitudes when we are using the roads, our death toll will continue to increase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010766%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398806"}},{"id":"398805","reference":"AQW 10765/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps that have been taken to train, recruit and retain care staff during the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"Staffing levels continue to be a significant challenge across the health and social care sector. My officials continue to work to maximise current capacity in social care and to engage with service providers in regard to addressing those ongoing issues of recruitment and retention. This is only possible with a skilled and dedicated workforce.\n\nIn recognition of the challenges facing the independent social care sector, I recently announced a £70m funding package across a range of service provision, including domiciliary care. The purpose of this funding is to ensure independent sector providers have the necessary funding to meet the challenges of increases to national living wage from the beginning of April. I have also established structures to consider how we move the sector to a Real Living Wage employer base and significant work is ongoing to build the case for the additional funding that will be required to deliver this.\n\nIn recognition of the fundamental need to deliver reform and transformation in Health and Social Care, my Department has established the Adult Social Care Collaborative Forum and the Children’s Strategic Reform Board. Within these fora, workstreams have been established focusing on supporting, developing and improving the social care workforce. The Adult social care workforce workstream is also scoping how we can improve recruitment of international social care staff.\n\nThese workstreams are implementing a range of measures that include:\n\nPublishing a Social Care Workforce Strategy which will set out a vision to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next 10 years. The strategy will include actions to develop career pathways, support the training and education of the workforce, and to raise the profile and recognition of the social care workforce as a skilled and competent workforce. It is anticipated that the Strategy will be published in late 2024.\n\nIn partnership with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, work is ongoing to develop the training, career and qualification pathways for the social care workforce.\n\nIn partnership with all stakeholders’ social care campaigns are ongoing to raise the profile and recognise the significant contribution that the social care workforce provides.\n\nIn addition, the Social Care Fair Work Forum has also been established which will seek to embed Fair Work initiatives and improve the terms and conditions for everyone employed across all parts of the social care sector.","answerHtml":"Staffing levels continue to be a significant challenge across the health and social care sector. My officials continue to work to maximise current capacity in social care and to engage with service providers in regard to addressing those ongoing issues of recruitment and retention. This is only possible with a skilled and dedicated workforce.
In recognition of the challenges facing the independent social care sector, I recently announced a £70m funding package across a range of service provision, including domiciliary care. The purpose of this funding is to ensure independent sector providers have the necessary funding to meet the challenges of increases to national living wage from the beginning of April. I have also established structures to consider how we move the sector to a Real Living Wage employer base and significant work is ongoing to build the case for the additional funding that will be required to deliver this.
In recognition of the fundamental need to deliver reform and transformation in Health and Social Care, my Department has established the Adult Social Care Collaborative Forum and the Children’s Strategic Reform Board. Within these fora, workstreams have been established focusing on supporting, developing and improving the social care workforce. The Adult social care workforce workstream is also scoping how we can improve recruitment of international social care staff.
These workstreams are implementing a range of measures that include:
Publishing a Social Care Workforce Strategy which will set out a vision to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next 10 years. The strategy will include actions to develop career pathways, support the training and education of the workforce, and to raise the profile and recognition of the social care workforce as a skilled and competent workforce. It is anticipated that the Strategy will be published in late 2024.
In partnership with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, work is ongoing to develop the training, career and qualification pathways for the social care workforce.
In partnership with all stakeholders’ social care campaigns are ongoing to raise the profile and recognise the significant contribution that the social care workforce provides.
In addition, the Social Care Fair Work Forum has also been established which will seek to embed Fair Work initiatives and improve the terms and conditions for everyone employed across all parts of the social care sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010765%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398805"}},{"id":"398804","reference":"AQW 10764/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any work that has been undertaken on assessing (i) pollution; and (ii) congestion levels in Ballykelly, to discern the views of locals and commuters in relation to the need and benefits of the proposed Ballykelly bypass.","answerText":"The preferred route for Ballykelly Bypass was announced in 2010, however due to the lack of funding this scheme has not been progressed and no further development work has been undertaken. At that time an assessment on pollution and traffic was undertaken, however given the passage of time these will need to be reassessed.\n\nThe A2 Ballykelly Bypass Stage 2 Assessment Report, published in 2010, contains further information and can be viewed using the following link:\n\nwww.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/drd/A2-ballykelly-bypass-stage-2-assessement-report.pdf\n\nMy Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.","answerHtml":"The preferred route for Ballykelly Bypass was announced in 2010, however due to the lack of funding this scheme has not been progressed and no further development work has been undertaken. At that time an assessment on pollution and traffic was undertaken, however given the passage of time these will need to be reassessed.
The A2 Ballykelly Bypass Stage 2 Assessment Report, published in 2010, contains further information and can be viewed using the following link:
www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/drd/A2-ballykelly-bypass-stage-2-assessement-report.pdf
My Department has been operating in a difficult financial environment for a number of years due to underfunding and austerity by the British Government. The value of our infrastructure cannot be overstated, and I will continue to work with Executive colleagues to ensure appropriate investment is made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010764%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398804"}},{"id":"398803","reference":"AQW 10763/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-24","answerBy":"2024-05-10","answered":"2024-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of people (i) charged; and (ii) convicted in relation to drug crime in the Limavady area, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department of Justice does not hold information on the numbers of persons charged for drugs offences. Information on persons charged for drugs offences is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the issues raised in part (i) of the question to the PSNI.\n\nInformation in relation to part (ii) of the question has been provided in relation to the number of convictions at courts for drugs offences in 2018 – 2022, the most recent five years for which information is available, in relation to defendants who had an address in Limavady at the date their case was dealt with in court.\n\nConvictions at courts for drugs offences where defendant had address in Limavady, 2018 - 2022\n\nYear\tConvictions\n2018\t33\n2019\t34\n2020\t20\n2021\t34\n2022\t25\n\nNote:\n\n1. Figures relate to initial disposal at courts. Appeals are not included.\n\n2. Figures relate to cases where there was a conviction for at least one drugs offence.\n\n3. Figures relate to defendants who were recorded as having an address in Limavady settlement area at time court case was dealt with.\n\n4. Limavady settlement area is as defined in the NISRA report ‘Review of the Statistical Classification and Delineation of Settlements 2015’.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice does not hold information on the numbers of persons charged for drugs offences. Information on persons charged for drugs offences is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the issues raised in part (i) of the question to the PSNI.
Information in relation to part (ii) of the question has been provided in relation to the number of convictions at courts for drugs offences in 2018 – 2022, the most recent five years for which information is available, in relation to defendants who had an address in Limavady at the date their case was dealt with in court.
Convictions at courts for drugs offences where defendant had address in Limavady, 2018 - 2022
| Year | Convictions |
| 2018 | 33 |
| 2019 | 34 |
| 2020 | 20 |
| 2021 | 34 |
| 2022 | 25 |
Note:
1. Figures relate to initial disposal at courts. Appeals are not included.
2. Figures relate to cases where there was a conviction for at least one drugs offence.
3. Figures relate to defendants who were recorded as having an address in Limavady settlement area at time court case was dealt with.
4. Limavady settlement area is as defined in the NISRA report ‘Review of the Statistical Classification and Delineation of Settlements 2015’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010763%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398803"}},{"id":"398595","reference":"AQW 10682/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-23","answerBy":"2024-05-09","answered":"2024-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any support it provides to adults with suspected but undiagnosed special educational needs, particularly with issues such as reading and writing and when preparing for or seeking employment.","answerText":"My Department offers a wide range of support to customers based on personal assessments and tailored to individual needs, operating in conjunction with other supports delivered by Central and Local Government, and the Voluntary and Community Sector.\n\nThe Department offers Access to Work NI, Workable NI, and the Condition Management Programme which are flexible provisions that support management of their conditions, movement towards, and sustainment of employment. Additionally, the JobStart Scheme offers paid placements for young adults, alongside a training and upskilling bursary.\n\nIn respect to reading and writing provision for adults, while this is primarily the remit of the Department for the Economy, Work Coaches across my Department’s Jobs and Benefits office network refer and connect claimants to local provision. They also offer schemes such as the Advisor Discretionary Fund which can provide non-repayable grants to remove any financial barriers to participation within this provision.","answerHtml":"My Department offers a wide range of support to customers based on personal assessments and tailored to individual needs, operating in conjunction with other supports delivered by Central and Local Government, and the Voluntary and Community Sector.
The Department offers Access to Work NI, Workable NI, and the Condition Management Programme which are flexible provisions that support management of their conditions, movement towards, and sustainment of employment. Additionally, the JobStart Scheme offers paid placements for young adults, alongside a training and upskilling bursary.
In respect to reading and writing provision for adults, while this is primarily the remit of the Department for the Economy, Work Coaches across my Department’s Jobs and Benefits office network refer and connect claimants to local provision. They also offer schemes such as the Advisor Discretionary Fund which can provide non-repayable grants to remove any financial barriers to participation within this provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010682%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398595"}},{"id":"398594","reference":"AQW 10681/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-23","answerBy":"2024-05-09","answered":"2024-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the work his Department has undertaken with Causeway Neurodiversity in identifying, diagnosing and supporting adults with suspected special educational needs (SEN); and (ii) to detail how his Department can better work with charity groups such as this to facilitate a better understanding of, and better support for, adults with suspected SEN.","answerText":"The Department of Health and HSC partners work closely with the Department of Education and the Education Authority to support children with special educational needs throughout their time in school and transition into adult services. Those transitioning to adult services may present with health and social care needs, accessing a range of supports dependent on assessment.\n\nCauseway Neurodiversity is one of the partner members, of the cross sector Northern Area Autism Forum and the working groups established to deliver an Action Plan. The Forum is chaired by Northern Health and Social Care Trust and provides a multi-agency approach to all issues, including health, employment and housing, impacting on people with ASD and their families in line with the Autism Strategy. The Department engages with this Forum on a quarterly basis. The Trust has provided seed funding for Causeway Neurodiversity to help with set up costs and to help them offer support for neurodivergent children, young people, adults and their carers/ families.\n\nMy Department continues to engage with autistic people and the sector through the Department’s Autism Forum established in 2021, which is co-chaired by autistic advocates, to consider issues and challenges on a thematic basis. The Forum comprises of people with lived experience of autism and the community and voluntary sector organisations who represent them. My Department also continues to attend regional Autism Fora and Stakeholder Groups on a quarterly basis to enable continued engagement on the aims and improvements to be achieved in the Autism Strategy. More recently my Department worked with the voluntary and community sector in the development of the Learning Disability Strategic Plan. This work sets out to finalise a service model for learning disabilities and a framework for disabled children. This work is being progressed alongside a refreshed approach to transitions for children with learning disabilities or autism, which is linked to the ongoing End to End Review of SEN, progressed by the Department of Education.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health and HSC partners work closely with the Department of Education and the Education Authority to support children with special educational needs throughout their time in school and transition into adult services. Those transitioning to adult services may present with health and social care needs, accessing a range of supports dependent on assessment.
Causeway Neurodiversity is one of the partner members, of the cross sector Northern Area Autism Forum and the working groups established to deliver an Action Plan. The Forum is chaired by Northern Health and Social Care Trust and provides a multi-agency approach to all issues, including health, employment and housing, impacting on people with ASD and their families in line with the Autism Strategy. The Department engages with this Forum on a quarterly basis. The Trust has provided seed funding for Causeway Neurodiversity to help with set up costs and to help them offer support for neurodivergent children, young people, adults and their carers/ families.
My Department continues to engage with autistic people and the sector through the Department’s Autism Forum established in 2021, which is co-chaired by autistic advocates, to consider issues and challenges on a thematic basis. The Forum comprises of people with lived experience of autism and the community and voluntary sector organisations who represent them. My Department also continues to attend regional Autism Fora and Stakeholder Groups on a quarterly basis to enable continued engagement on the aims and improvements to be achieved in the Autism Strategy. More recently my Department worked with the voluntary and community sector in the development of the Learning Disability Strategic Plan. This work sets out to finalise a service model for learning disabilities and a framework for disabled children. This work is being progressed alongside a refreshed approach to transitions for children with learning disabilities or autism, which is linked to the ongoing End to End Review of SEN, progressed by the Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010681%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398594"}},{"id":"398593","reference":"AQW 10680/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-23","answerBy":"2024-05-09","answered":"2024-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of how Safe Access Zones around hospitals can be better enforced in order to avoid suffering of families who have lost babies and potential conflict with protestors.","answerText":"Safe Access Zones were introduced at all health service locations providing abortion services across Northern Ireland from 29 September 2023, and continue to operate effectively in line with Assembly legislation to protect women and girls accessing abortion treatment services, information, advice and counselling, and to protect staff working at these locations.\n\nEnforcement of a Safe Access Zone is a matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Safe Access Zones were introduced at all health service locations providing abortion services across Northern Ireland from 29 September 2023, and continue to operate effectively in line with Assembly legislation to protect women and girls accessing abortion treatment services, information, advice and counselling, and to protect staff working at these locations.
Enforcement of a Safe Access Zone is a matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010680%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398593"}},{"id":"398592","reference":"AQW 10679/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-23","answerBy":"2024-05-09","answered":"2024-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what steps he is considering to assist hospitality businesses that are struggling due to the significant number of such businesses, particularly on the north coast.","answerText":"I understand the importance of the hospitality sector for our tourism industry, particularly on the north coast, and recognise that rising costs represent a challenge at this time.\n\nAddressing these challenges cuts across several areas of government, including the Department for Communities and local councils. My Department is taking steps to support such businesses through delivery of the Executive’s Path to Net Zero Energy Strategy, a key objective being to ensure that all consumers, including small businesses, have access to essential and affordable energy.\n\nThe level of VAT is an additional issue for the sector. The Department of Finance has repeatedly raised with the Treasury the negative impact of high levels of VAT on the hospitality sector, and these representations will continue.\n\nWhile town centre regeneration is a matter for the Department for Communities, the recommendations of the High Street Taskforce are also relevant as successful hospitality businesses are important features of vibrant town centres. I therefore intend to work with Executive colleagues to consider the High Street Task Force recommendations to move this agenda forwards.","answerHtml":"I understand the importance of the hospitality sector for our tourism industry, particularly on the north coast, and recognise that rising costs represent a challenge at this time.
Addressing these challenges cuts across several areas of government, including the Department for Communities and local councils. My Department is taking steps to support such businesses through delivery of the Executive’s Path to Net Zero Energy Strategy, a key objective being to ensure that all consumers, including small businesses, have access to essential and affordable energy.
The level of VAT is an additional issue for the sector. The Department of Finance has repeatedly raised with the Treasury the negative impact of high levels of VAT on the hospitality sector, and these representations will continue.
While town centre regeneration is a matter for the Department for Communities, the recommendations of the High Street Taskforce are also relevant as successful hospitality businesses are important features of vibrant town centres. I therefore intend to work with Executive colleagues to consider the High Street Task Force recommendations to move this agenda forwards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010679%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398592"}},{"id":"398591","reference":"AQW 10678/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-23","answerBy":"2024-05-09","answered":"2024-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the plans to extend Sandelford School, Coleraine, including (i) the extra number of pupils it will be able to accommodate; and (ii) the funding available for (a) construction; and (b) the recruitment and retention of staff.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that it is advancing a three-classroom modular extension at Sandelford School, with the tender due to issue in May 2024. To meet demand for placements for September 2024, the EA is also currently investigating the procurement of five rental modular units.\n\nSandelford School is also advancing in design under the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). The proposed SEP project will add approximately 1,400m2 of accommodation to the school, together with some refurbishment of the existing school.\n\nFollowing my announcement (30 April 2024) for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Capital Investment Programme, the EA will undertake a review of all special schools, including Sandelford School. The EA will undertake an Optimum Pupil Number Exercise which, together with the Department of Education (DE) projections for the area, will inform the longer term need for all special school places. This will allow the EA to take forward workstreams to ensure a sufficient number of places are available as part of workstreams to be detailed in the Operational Plan 2: 2024-2026 (OP2). Until the Optimum Pupil Number Exercise and site master planning exercises are carried out, it is not possible to determine how many extra pupils Sandelford School can accommodate.\n\n(ii) (a) As announced on 30 April 2024, the scope and budget in respect of the existing SEP could be expanded to deliver accommodation at the scale required by the school. This is currently being explored further by the EA and the school.\n\n(ii) (b) A resource allocation meeting will be convened between the EA and the Chair of Governors and principal of Sandelford School in advance of additional pupils being placed. An allocation of teaching and non-teaching staff will be agreed with the school to resource additional classes and ensure that the special education needs of pupils are met.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that it is advancing a three-classroom modular extension at Sandelford School, with the tender due to issue in May 2024. To meet demand for placements for September 2024, the EA is also currently investigating the procurement of five rental modular units.
Sandelford School is also advancing in design under the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). The proposed SEP project will add approximately 1,400m2 of accommodation to the school, together with some refurbishment of the existing school.
Following my announcement (30 April 2024) for a Special Educational Needs (SEN) Capital Investment Programme, the EA will undertake a review of all special schools, including Sandelford School. The EA will undertake an Optimum Pupil Number Exercise which, together with the Department of Education (DE) projections for the area, will inform the longer term need for all special school places. This will allow the EA to take forward workstreams to ensure a sufficient number of places are available as part of workstreams to be detailed in the Operational Plan 2: 2024-2026 (OP2). Until the Optimum Pupil Number Exercise and site master planning exercises are carried out, it is not possible to determine how many extra pupils Sandelford School can accommodate.
(ii) (a) As announced on 30 April 2024, the scope and budget in respect of the existing SEP could be expanded to deliver accommodation at the scale required by the school. This is currently being explored further by the EA and the school.
(ii) (b) A resource allocation meeting will be convened between the EA and the Chair of Governors and principal of Sandelford School in advance of additional pupils being placed. An allocation of teaching and non-teaching staff will be agreed with the school to resource additional classes and ensure that the special education needs of pupils are met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010678%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398591"}},{"id":"398383","reference":"AQW 10581/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-22","answerBy":"2024-05-08","answered":"2024-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what consideration is being given to how the demography in Northern Ireland will change in the next 20 years, in particular the age of our population; and (ii) how an ageing population will impact services across all health and social care settings.","answerText":"It is widely recognised that Northern Ireland has a growing and ageing population, and with this comes the increased risk of people living with multiple conditions. This adds to the complexity of needs that our services must manage and places additional demands and pressures on the system.\n\nConsequently, there is a fundamental need to change the way we work if we are to address these demands and pressures.\n\nThe development of the Integrated Care System NI will support us in doing this, enabling collaborative working across the HSC sector and beyond, placing a focus on people keeping well in the first instance, providing timely, co-ordinated care when they are not, and supporting people to self-care when appropriate.\n\nThis approach will help support us to ensure that we are maximizing the resource we have available to deliver the best outcomes for our population.","answerHtml":"It is widely recognised that Northern Ireland has a growing and ageing population, and with this comes the increased risk of people living with multiple conditions. This adds to the complexity of needs that our services must manage and places additional demands and pressures on the system.
Consequently, there is a fundamental need to change the way we work if we are to address these demands and pressures.
The development of the Integrated Care System NI will support us in doing this, enabling collaborative working across the HSC sector and beyond, placing a focus on people keeping well in the first instance, providing timely, co-ordinated care when they are not, and supporting people to self-care when appropriate.
This approach will help support us to ensure that we are maximizing the resource we have available to deliver the best outcomes for our population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010581%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398383","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398383"}},{"id":"398382","reference":"AQW 10580/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-22","answerBy":"2024-05-08","answered":"2024-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the challenges of performing major elective surgeries when (a) an overnight stay is not possible; (b) there is no access to emergency theatre; and (c) there is no on-site surgical assessor; and (ii) how these challenges will impact where elective surgeries take place.","answerText":"The hospital infrastructure in Northern Ireland operates as an integrated network in the delivery of elective care to the region.\n\nThe nature and complexity of the elective surgery required, and the patient’s clinical circumstances, will determine where a surgery takes place.\n\nMore complex or specialist elective surgery will be carried out in a hospital which has the necessary supporting clinical infrastructure.\n\nOur two dedicated regional Day Procedure Centres at Lagan Valley and Omagh Hospitals perform planned day surgery and mainly focus on high volume, low complexity surgery across a range of specialities. Elective Overnight Stay Centres have also been established at Mater, Daisy Hill and South West Acute Hospitals for intermediate complexity elective surgery that sometimes, but not always, requires an overnight stay in hospital.\n\nThere is no doubt that we need to maximise the use of all the hospital infrastructure available to address the waiting lists. Work is ongoing to maximise the effectiveness and throughput of surgical theatres and diagnostic services by driving performance and efficiency.","answerHtml":"The hospital infrastructure in Northern Ireland operates as an integrated network in the delivery of elective care to the region.
The nature and complexity of the elective surgery required, and the patient’s clinical circumstances, will determine where a surgery takes place.
More complex or specialist elective surgery will be carried out in a hospital which has the necessary supporting clinical infrastructure.
Our two dedicated regional Day Procedure Centres at Lagan Valley and Omagh Hospitals perform planned day surgery and mainly focus on high volume, low complexity surgery across a range of specialities. Elective Overnight Stay Centres have also been established at Mater, Daisy Hill and South West Acute Hospitals for intermediate complexity elective surgery that sometimes, but not always, requires an overnight stay in hospital.
There is no doubt that we need to maximise the use of all the hospital infrastructure available to address the waiting lists. Work is ongoing to maximise the effectiveness and throughput of surgical theatres and diagnostic services by driving performance and efficiency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010580%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398382","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398382"}},{"id":"398381","reference":"AQW 10579/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-22","answerBy":"2024-05-08","answered":"2024-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what options he has considered to encourage surgeons and other personnel to work in hospitals outside Greater Belfast, including merit awards, targeted training, and other forms of recognition.","answerText":"I value the contribution provided by all HSC personnel in all clinical settings to the delivery of care to our population.\n\nMy Department is working with the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency and all HSC Trusts right across Northern Ireland to implement practical measures that will enhance the quality of medical training provided.\n\nRecruitment into HSC is a matter for each Trust individually as the employer. Where any part of the workforce is under pressure, each employer may seek the Department’s approval to apply a Recruitment and Retention Payment (RRP). The use of RRPs is, however, limited due to the potential for impacts in neighbouring Trusts.","answerHtml":"I value the contribution provided by all HSC personnel in all clinical settings to the delivery of care to our population.
My Department is working with the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency and all HSC Trusts right across Northern Ireland to implement practical measures that will enhance the quality of medical training provided.
Recruitment into HSC is a matter for each Trust individually as the employer. Where any part of the workforce is under pressure, each employer may seek the Department’s approval to apply a Recruitment and Retention Payment (RRP). The use of RRPs is, however, limited due to the potential for impacts in neighbouring Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010579%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398381","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398381"}},{"id":"398380","reference":"AQW 10578/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-22","answerBy":"2024-05-08","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) how many planning applications are awaiting assessment by NIEA as a statutory consultee; (ii) how many applications did NIEA respond to in (a) February 2023; and (b) February 2024; and (iii) how many officers are resource allocated for responding on behalf of NIEA as a statutory consultee.","answerText":"When consulted on a planning application the Department provides a single collated response covering all relevant Departmental divisions, as such the number of planning consultation responses are recorded at a Departmental level which covers 7 teams within NIEA & Marine & Fisheries Division (MFD).\n\n(i) Week commencing 22 April 2024, there were 280 statutory planning consultations and 97 non-statutory consultations awaiting assessment with the Department.\n\n(ii) NIEA & MFD responded to 448 planning consultations in February 2023; and 415 planning consultations in February 2024.\n\n(iii) There are 47.4 full time equivalent officers working on planning consultations within NIEA & MFD.","answerHtml":"When consulted on a planning application the Department provides a single collated response covering all relevant Departmental divisions, as such the number of planning consultation responses are recorded at a Departmental level which covers 7 teams within NIEA & Marine & Fisheries Division (MFD).
(i) Week commencing 22 April 2024, there were 280 statutory planning consultations and 97 non-statutory consultations awaiting assessment with the Department.
(ii) NIEA & MFD responded to 448 planning consultations in February 2023; and 415 planning consultations in February 2024.
(iii) There are 47.4 full time equivalent officers working on planning consultations within NIEA & MFD.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010578%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398380","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398380"}},{"id":"398379","reference":"AQW 10577/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-22","answerBy":"2024-05-08","answered":"2024-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the reasons NIEA suspended assessment of planning applications as a statutory consultee in March 2023; and (ii) his assessment of how this suspension impacted on applications related to the rural and agricultural economy.","answerText":"(i) The decision to suspend the provision of advice to planning authorities in spring 2023 was based on concerns around the efficacy of NIEA’s extant advice to support robust decision-making on sustainable development. This was informed by the Planning Appeal Commission revoking a planning decision that relied on NIEA’s advice, following a legal challenge by Fermanagh and Omagh DC; an increase in planning enforcement cases related to air pollution; recognition that planning authorities were increasingly reluctant to base their decisions on the Standing Advice; and DAERA’s ongoing review of the air pollution standing advice in light of ever increasing ammonia emissions and associated risks to biodiversity.\n\n(ii) I recognise that the decision to pause the issuing of advice delayed decisions in a number of planning cases, which my officials have been working hard to expedite. I can assure you that we have sought to increase capacity in this work area and are trying to respond to all planning consultations as quickly as possible. However, it must be noted that issues around the previous advice were causing significant difficulties for the planning system, planning authorities and applicants alike in being able secure sound planning decisions that safeguard our natural capital and comply with environmental law.","answerHtml":"(i) The decision to suspend the provision of advice to planning authorities in spring 2023 was based on concerns around the efficacy of NIEA’s extant advice to support robust decision-making on sustainable development. This was informed by the Planning Appeal Commission revoking a planning decision that relied on NIEA’s advice, following a legal challenge by Fermanagh and Omagh DC; an increase in planning enforcement cases related to air pollution; recognition that planning authorities were increasingly reluctant to base their decisions on the Standing Advice; and DAERA’s ongoing review of the air pollution standing advice in light of ever increasing ammonia emissions and associated risks to biodiversity.
(ii) I recognise that the decision to pause the issuing of advice delayed decisions in a number of planning cases, which my officials have been working hard to expedite. I can assure you that we have sought to increase capacity in this work area and are trying to respond to all planning consultations as quickly as possible. However, it must be noted that issues around the previous advice were causing significant difficulties for the planning system, planning authorities and applicants alike in being able secure sound planning decisions that safeguard our natural capital and comply with environmental law.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010577%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398379","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398379"}},{"id":"398151","reference":"AQW 10486/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-19","answerBy":"2024-05-07","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any cross-departmental work or discussions in relation to potential changes to taxi operators’ licensing regulations, specifically in relation to (i) the impact it will have on taxi numbers; and (ii) the knock-on effects on (a) older people who rely on taxis for medical appointments; and (b) families with children with special educational needs or disabilities who rely on taxis to take them to school.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry, in relation to taxi driver, taxi operator and vehicle licencing. Within this regulatory role the department has no remit to influence the specific types of work taxi drivers or taxi companies undertake. The same applies to driver recruitment and retention polices, this is a matter for taxi operators.\n\nWith regard to the proposal to amend the current Taxi Operator Licensing Regulations (NI) 2012 you may wish to note that I have not yet made a final decision on the need for subordinate legislation here. However, I should emphasise that any new regulations would not alter the current taxi regulatory framework. Rather, they would simply clarify the existing requirements of the taxis Act (NI) 2008. I can also confirm that in considering the proposal my officials did engage with Transport for London and the Department for Transport.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry, in relation to taxi driver, taxi operator and vehicle licencing. Within this regulatory role the department has no remit to influence the specific types of work taxi drivers or taxi companies undertake. The same applies to driver recruitment and retention polices, this is a matter for taxi operators.
With regard to the proposal to amend the current Taxi Operator Licensing Regulations (NI) 2012 you may wish to note that I have not yet made a final decision on the need for subordinate legislation here. However, I should emphasise that any new regulations would not alter the current taxi regulatory framework. Rather, they would simply clarify the existing requirements of the taxis Act (NI) 2008. I can also confirm that in considering the proposal my officials did engage with Transport for London and the Department for Transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010486%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398151"}},{"id":"398150","reference":"AQW 10485/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-19","answerBy":"2024-05-07","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any plans he has to introduce legislation to ban the hunting of wild animals with dogs.","answerText":"I understand that this is an important issue, and much work has been undertaken to date to take forward a ban, most notably, by John Blair, MLA, in the last Assembly mandate.\n\nI am supportive of the need to ban the hunting of wild animals with dogs.\n\nHowever, I need to consider the priority of any relevant legislation against other priorities within the Department.","answerHtml":"I understand that this is an important issue, and much work has been undertaken to date to take forward a ban, most notably, by John Blair, MLA, in the last Assembly mandate.
I am supportive of the need to ban the hunting of wild animals with dogs.
However, I need to consider the priority of any relevant legislation against other priorities within the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010485%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398150"}},{"id":"398149","reference":"AQW 10484/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-19","answerBy":"2024-05-07","answered":"2024-05-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the increased perinatal services available in Causeway Hospital since the maternity unit was moved to Antrim Area Hospital; and (ii) for his assessment of access to services for expectant mothers who must travel further since the move.","answerText":"(i) Following our acute maternity services transformation work which saw births and inpatients consolidate onto the Antrim Area Hospital site, the Trust have worked to increase antenatal and postnatal services in the Causeway Maternity Hub by improving local access to antenatal and postnatal services for women within the Causeway locality. Complex antenatal clinics have been established in Causeway so as to mitigate the distance women have historically been asked to travel to receive this care.\n\nThese clinics include;\n\nPerinatal Mental Health Clinic\n\nThere is a dedicated joint perinatal mental health and obstetric clinic. Since the reconfiguration of services, the community perinatal mental team now provide fortnightly clinics in the Causeway Maternity Hub. This has facilitated an improved pathway and increased co-ordination in care between the multidisciplinary teams and have reduced the need for women with perinatal mental health concerns to travel to Antrim as had been the case prior to the reform.\n\nSocial Complexities Antenatal/ Postnatal Clinic\n\nThere is a dedicated obstetric clinic with support from the Midwife specialist for Social Complexities.\n\nThird trimester Midwifery Led Scanning Clinic\n\nWeigh to Health Pregnancy Clinic for women with an increased BMI in pregnancy.\n\nSpecialist infant feeding clinic\n\nThe Trust also have a Maternity Care clinic, which is a dedicated provision for scheduled ambulatory care. Since the opening of this unit, until end of March 2024, 733 women have benefited from the utilisation of this service.\n\nScheduled Care provision\n\nExamples of scheduled care provision includes iron infusions, caesarean section pre-operative care, screening tests, including those for diabetes and fetal and maternity wellbeing checks.\n\nBeing developed;\n\nGestational Diabetic Clinic\n\nPathways are currently being developed to provide to a cohort of risk-assessed women who present with gestational diabetes to receive antenatal care, thereby further increasing perinatal services to the woman in the locality of Causeway without the need to travel to the Antrim site.\n\nNeurodiversity antenatal/ postnatal clinic\n\nA further pathway currently under development is an antenatal space/clinic to provide women with a diagnosis of neurodiversity, that may find it difficult to attend a traditional antenatal clinic an alternative setting.\n\n(ii) In relation to an assessment of access to services for expectant mothers who must travel further since the move, one of the concerns which had been expressed was that the change could result in additional babies born before arrival to hospital (BBAs). Since the consolidation of inpatient maternity services and births in Antrim Area Hospital, six women (accounting for seven babies as there was one set of twins) have experienced birth before arrival to hospital. Three women were within the Causeway locality and four resided closer to Antrim. There has been no significant increase in the average number of BBAs, which is approximately one per month.\n\nAnother concern was if mothers would present in labour at Causeway Hospital after the service change; however, since the maternity service reform, no women have presented in labour at Causeway Hospital.\n\nSeven pregnant women (not in labour) have attended Causeway Emergency Department and appropriate pathways have been followed to ensure safe and timely care.\n\nThe change in configuration of Northern Trust inpatient maternity services was intended to address some significant concerns around the sustainability of the previous two-site model. Inevitably, this has resulted in some women having to travel further to give birth or to access unscheduled antenatal care, however local access to antenatal and postnatal care has been improved and the Trust is assured that the maternity service is now in a more stable, sustainable position.","answerHtml":"(i) Following our acute maternity services transformation work which saw births and inpatients consolidate onto the Antrim Area Hospital site, the Trust have worked to increase antenatal and postnatal services in the Causeway Maternity Hub by improving local access to antenatal and postnatal services for women within the Causeway locality. Complex antenatal clinics have been established in Causeway so as to mitigate the distance women have historically been asked to travel to receive this care.
These clinics include;
Perinatal Mental Health Clinic
There is a dedicated joint perinatal mental health and obstetric clinic. Since the reconfiguration of services, the community perinatal mental team now provide fortnightly clinics in the Causeway Maternity Hub. This has facilitated an improved pathway and increased co-ordination in care between the multidisciplinary teams and have reduced the need for women with perinatal mental health concerns to travel to Antrim as had been the case prior to the reform.
Social Complexities Antenatal/ Postnatal Clinic
There is a dedicated obstetric clinic with support from the Midwife specialist for Social Complexities.
Third trimester Midwifery Led Scanning Clinic
Weigh to Health Pregnancy Clinic for women with an increased BMI in pregnancy.
Specialist infant feeding clinic
The Trust also have a Maternity Care clinic, which is a dedicated provision for scheduled ambulatory care. Since the opening of this unit, until end of March 2024, 733 women have benefited from the utilisation of this service.
Scheduled Care provision
Examples of scheduled care provision includes iron infusions, caesarean section pre-operative care, screening tests, including those for diabetes and fetal and maternity wellbeing checks.
Being developed;
Gestational Diabetic Clinic
Pathways are currently being developed to provide to a cohort of risk-assessed women who present with gestational diabetes to receive antenatal care, thereby further increasing perinatal services to the woman in the locality of Causeway without the need to travel to the Antrim site.
Neurodiversity antenatal/ postnatal clinic
A further pathway currently under development is an antenatal space/clinic to provide women with a diagnosis of neurodiversity, that may find it difficult to attend a traditional antenatal clinic an alternative setting.
(ii) In relation to an assessment of access to services for expectant mothers who must travel further since the move, one of the concerns which had been expressed was that the change could result in additional babies born before arrival to hospital (BBAs). Since the consolidation of inpatient maternity services and births in Antrim Area Hospital, six women (accounting for seven babies as there was one set of twins) have experienced birth before arrival to hospital. Three women were within the Causeway locality and four resided closer to Antrim. There has been no significant increase in the average number of BBAs, which is approximately one per month.
Another concern was if mothers would present in labour at Causeway Hospital after the service change; however, since the maternity service reform, no women have presented in labour at Causeway Hospital.
Seven pregnant women (not in labour) have attended Causeway Emergency Department and appropriate pathways have been followed to ensure safe and timely care.
The change in configuration of Northern Trust inpatient maternity services was intended to address some significant concerns around the sustainability of the previous two-site model. Inevitably, this has resulted in some women having to travel further to give birth or to access unscheduled antenatal care, however local access to antenatal and postnatal care has been improved and the Trust is assured that the maternity service is now in a more stable, sustainable position.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010484%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398149"}},{"id":"398148","reference":"AQW 10483/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-19","answerBy":"2024-05-07","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he plans to introduce compensation schemes for farmers whose crops fall victim to poor weather, including during recent heavy rainfall.","answerText":"I am aware that this year’s very wet and late Spring is presenting challenges for farmers operating in almost every sector within the industry.\n\nI am conscious of the wider impact if wet weather continues in the time ahead and I have made representations to the UK Government about the need for central government intervention if the situation lasts for much longer.\n\nMeanwhile, my officials in the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) continue to monitor the situation very closely, maintaining contact with stakeholders and farmers across the range of sectors within the industry.\n\nCAFRE has released a number of advisory articles on the management of farming operations following this period of prolonged inclement weather and tailored advice is also being offered at group meetings and through one-to-one discussions with individual farmers.","answerHtml":"I am aware that this year’s very wet and late Spring is presenting challenges for farmers operating in almost every sector within the industry.
I am conscious of the wider impact if wet weather continues in the time ahead and I have made representations to the UK Government about the need for central government intervention if the situation lasts for much longer.
Meanwhile, my officials in the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) continue to monitor the situation very closely, maintaining contact with stakeholders and farmers across the range of sectors within the industry.
CAFRE has released a number of advisory articles on the management of farming operations following this period of prolonged inclement weather and tailored advice is also being offered at group meetings and through one-to-one discussions with individual farmers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010483%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398148"}},{"id":"398147","reference":"AQW 10482/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-19","answerBy":"2024-05-07","answered":"2024-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what engagement he has had with Ulster University about the future of the Coleraine campus.","answerText":"I have met with Ulster University for wide-ranging discussions in which the University’s commitment to its multi-campus mission, including the future of its Coleraine campus, has been very clear. I am supportive of that commitment as a means to deliver regional balance in the provision of higher education in the North.\n\nI will continue to work with all of our higher education institutions to help ensure all their campuses are thriving, sustainable centres for higher education.","answerHtml":"I have met with Ulster University for wide-ranging discussions in which the University’s commitment to its multi-campus mission, including the future of its Coleraine campus, has been very clear. I am supportive of that commitment as a means to deliver regional balance in the provision of higher education in the North.
I will continue to work with all of our higher education institutions to help ensure all their campuses are thriving, sustainable centres for higher education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010482%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=398147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=398147"}},{"id":"397955","reference":"AQW 10389/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he is aware of any road traffic collisions or incidents involving cyclists or other road users caused by (i) potholes; and (ii) other damaged roads, in the last three years.","answerText":"My department does not collect data on road traffic collisions. In general, road traffic collision data and related incidents is collected by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) where personal injury has occurred. This data is subsequently made available to my department and is also available to the public on access portal ‘OpendataNI.’ This data can be accessed via the below link.\n\nhttps://admin.opendatani.gov.uk/dataset?organization=police-service-of-northern-ireland&tags=injury+collisions\n\nA review of the current information on OpendataNI, records would indicate that there were 12 collisions within the last three years of available data where a ‘defective road surface’ has been recorded as ‘special condition at site’. Of these, there were 3 instances where a pedal cycle had been recorded as a vehicle involved in the collision.","answerHtml":"My department does not collect data on road traffic collisions. In general, road traffic collision data and related incidents is collected by the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) where personal injury has occurred. This data is subsequently made available to my department and is also available to the public on access portal ‘OpendataNI.’ This data can be accessed via the below link.
https://admin.opendatani.gov.uk/dataset?organization=police-service-of-northern-ireland&tags=injury+collisions
A review of the current information on OpendataNI, records would indicate that there were 12 collisions within the last three years of available data where a ‘defective road surface’ has been recorded as ‘special condition at site’. Of these, there were 3 instances where a pedal cycle had been recorded as a vehicle involved in the collision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010389%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397955"}},{"id":"397954","reference":"AQW 10388/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for a breakdown of what percentage of the planning application for a major development is allocated to the (i) planning authority; and (ii) statutory consultees.","answerText":"Any fee payable under the Planning (Fees) Regulations (NI) 2015 (as amended), for an application for planning permission is allocated in full to the relevant planning authority.","answerHtml":"Any fee payable under the Planning (Fees) Regulations (NI) 2015 (as amended), for an application for planning permission is allocated in full to the relevant planning authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010388%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397954","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397954"}},{"id":"397953","reference":"AQW 10387/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-05-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he plans to appoint independent persons to undertake hearings and examinations to help address the current backlog faced by the Planning Appeals Commission.","answerText":"I recognise the resourcing challenges of the Planning Appeals Commission and it is my intention to discuss the appropriate resourcing of the Commission with the Minister of Justice.","answerHtml":"I recognise the resourcing challenges of the Planning Appeals Commission and it is my intention to discuss the appropriate resourcing of the Commission with the Minister of Justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010387%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397953"}},{"id":"397952","reference":"AQW 10386/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for her assessment of no-fault divorce; and (ii) to detail any plans to introduce no-fault divorce.","answerText":"The policy of no-fault divorce has the potential to improve how such important matters are dealt with. I appreciate there are competing views on the issue and am keen to engage with those who may be able to make contributions in relation to no-fault divorces.\n\nI have had exploratory discussions with my officials in the Department who are engaged on a range of civil law reform areas including marriage and civil partnership reform and other important policies. I will consider this issue within the available resources and overall legislative priorities, and officials will begin preparatory work with the aim to see progress on this policy area during this mandate.","answerHtml":"The policy of no-fault divorce has the potential to improve how such important matters are dealt with. I appreciate there are competing views on the issue and am keen to engage with those who may be able to make contributions in relation to no-fault divorces.
I have had exploratory discussions with my officials in the Department who are engaged on a range of civil law reform areas including marriage and civil partnership reform and other important policies. I will consider this issue within the available resources and overall legislative priorities, and officials will begin preparatory work with the aim to see progress on this policy area during this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010386%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397952"}},{"id":"397951","reference":"AQW 10385/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-05-03","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when he will report on the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015, as is his statutory responsibility.","answerText":"The first report on the operation of the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 has been prepared and will be presented to the Executive for consideration within the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"The first report on the operation of the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 has been prepared and will be presented to the Executive for consideration within the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010385%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397951"}},{"id":"402452","reference":"AQO 351/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-18","answerBy":"2024-04-29","answered":"2024-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they will include an outcome for older people in the Programme for Government, to reflect the ageing population and the impact that has on public services.","answerText":"We are working at pace to develop a Programme for Government which meets the needs of everyone in our society, whatever their age.\n\nWe know that the proportion of our population over the age of 65 is increasing rapidly, and this will change how we deliver public services that support older people.\n\nAny commitments made within a Programme for Government must be agreed by all members of the Executive. We are together working to develop a Programme and hope to make it available to the Assembly for scrutiny soon.","answerHtml":"We are working at pace to develop a Programme for Government which meets the needs of everyone in our society, whatever their age.
We know that the proportion of our population over the age of 65 is increasing rapidly, and this will change how we deliver public services that support older people.
Any commitments made within a Programme for Government must be agreed by all members of the Executive. We are together working to develop a Programme and hope to make it available to the Assembly for scrutiny soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20351%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=402452","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=402452"}},{"id":"397800","reference":"AQW 10278/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-17","answerBy":"2024-05-02","answered":"2024-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the creation of provisions for Relationship and Sexuality Education as referenced by the Relationships and Sexuality Education (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2023; and (ii) to detail the level of importance given to addressing misogyny, consent and the development of toxic attitudes towards women.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education in the Northern Ireland Curriculum is not new; there were requirements for schools to deliver RSE before the introduction of the Education (Curriculum Minimum Content) Order (Northern Ireland) 2007 and before the Relationships and Sexuality Education (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2023 which were made by the Secretary of State and came into force on 1 July 2023.\n\nFrom 1 July 2023, comprehensive, age-appropriate and scientifically accurate education about sexual and reproductive health and rights covering prevention of early pregnancy and access to abortion became a mandatory element of Learning for Life and Work at key stages 3 and 4. Schools have therefore been required to provide that education from the start of the current school year.\n\nMy Department issued guidance to schools on 1 January 2024 on this change and from that date made provision by Regulations for the circumstances in which a parent can request a pupil be excused from the new education or specified elements of it.\n\nThe design of our curriculum means that schools have flexibility around what they teach and the resources they can use. This means that teaching can be tailored to discuss issues such as misogyny, consent and attitudes to women at a time when they are important to pupils and are part of wider debate in society.\n\nMy officials have also established as task and finish group to consider the findings of the Education and Training Inspectorate’s Evaluation of the Preventative Curriculum in Schools and Education Other Than At School EOTAS) Centres. The report found that some sensitive topics were not covered sufficiently or at all in some schools. I will consider whether it is appropriate to issue further guidance to schools in response to that report.\n\nOfficials are also engaged with the Executive Office on its Strategy for Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. Schools are very well placed to lead the way in attitudinal and behavioural change, with a whole school environment which equips and supports the empowerment of future generations to develop healthy, respectful relationships and gender equality. Addressing the root causes of violence against women and girls will be a central part of achieving this outcome.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education in the Northern Ireland Curriculum is not new; there were requirements for schools to deliver RSE before the introduction of the Education (Curriculum Minimum Content) Order (Northern Ireland) 2007 and before the Relationships and Sexuality Education (Northern Ireland) (Amendment) Regulations 2023 which were made by the Secretary of State and came into force on 1 July 2023.
From 1 July 2023, comprehensive, age-appropriate and scientifically accurate education about sexual and reproductive health and rights covering prevention of early pregnancy and access to abortion became a mandatory element of Learning for Life and Work at key stages 3 and 4. Schools have therefore been required to provide that education from the start of the current school year.
My Department issued guidance to schools on 1 January 2024 on this change and from that date made provision by Regulations for the circumstances in which a parent can request a pupil be excused from the new education or specified elements of it.
The design of our curriculum means that schools have flexibility around what they teach and the resources they can use. This means that teaching can be tailored to discuss issues such as misogyny, consent and attitudes to women at a time when they are important to pupils and are part of wider debate in society.
My officials have also established as task and finish group to consider the findings of the Education and Training Inspectorate’s Evaluation of the Preventative Curriculum in Schools and Education Other Than At School EOTAS) Centres. The report found that some sensitive topics were not covered sufficiently or at all in some schools. I will consider whether it is appropriate to issue further guidance to schools in response to that report.
Officials are also engaged with the Executive Office on its Strategy for Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. Schools are very well placed to lead the way in attitudinal and behavioural change, with a whole school environment which equips and supports the empowerment of future generations to develop healthy, respectful relationships and gender equality. Addressing the root causes of violence against women and girls will be a central part of achieving this outcome.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010278%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397800"}},{"id":"397799","reference":"AQW 10277/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-17","answerBy":"2024-05-02","answered":"2024-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on efforts to provide classroom assistants with a fair pay deal.","answerText":"The Budget allocations provided for 2024-25 do not include a specific allocation for the Pay & Grading Review for classroom assistants and other support staff. However I, together with Executive colleagues, am committed to working collectively to find a resolution for these important workers.\n\nThe Executive has agreed to seek approval from the HM Treasury to reprofile some of the repurposed funds provided in the Executive restoration financial package for this purpose.","answerHtml":"The Budget allocations provided for 2024-25 do not include a specific allocation for the Pay & Grading Review for classroom assistants and other support staff. However I, together with Executive colleagues, am committed to working collectively to find a resolution for these important workers.
The Executive has agreed to seek approval from the HM Treasury to reprofile some of the repurposed funds provided in the Executive restoration financial package for this purpose.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010277%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397799"}},{"id":"397798","reference":"AQW 10276/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-17","answerBy":"2024-05-02","answered":"2024-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any (i) guidance provided by; and (ii) conversations between, his Department, Tourism NI and local councils in relation to making public car parking easier for tourists, specifically the variety of methods required to pay, often within the same town or council area.","answerText":"Public parking is the responsibility of local councils. Tourism NI has not provided any guidance to local Councils on the specific methods required to pay for public parking by tourists. Tourism NI regularly engages with all 11 Councils on a range of services for tourists. For instance, they are working closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Council on the Connected Causeway programme, which proposes to create four new park and ride/stride hubs across the area to alleviate congestion and promote sustainable transport.","answerHtml":"Public parking is the responsibility of local councils. Tourism NI has not provided any guidance to local Councils on the specific methods required to pay for public parking by tourists. Tourism NI regularly engages with all 11 Councils on a range of services for tourists. For instance, they are working closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Council on the Connected Causeway programme, which proposes to create four new park and ride/stride hubs across the area to alleviate congestion and promote sustainable transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010276%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397798","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397798"}},{"id":"397797","reference":"AQW 10275/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-17","answerBy":"2024-05-02","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) his plans to reinitiate the dilapidation bill; and (ii) the stage the bill is currently at in its creation.","answerText":"Subject to the Executive approving the 2024/25 legislative programme and also agreeing the Bill, it is my intention to introduce a Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly as soon as possible after summer recess.\n\nThe drafting of the Bill is now complete and officials are currently finalising the associated Regulatory Impact Assessment.","answerHtml":"Subject to the Executive approving the 2024/25 legislative programme and also agreeing the Bill, it is my intention to introduce a Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly as soon as possible after summer recess.
The drafting of the Bill is now complete and officials are currently finalising the associated Regulatory Impact Assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010275%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397797","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397797"}},{"id":"397796","reference":"AQW 10274/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-17","answerBy":"2024-05-02","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) how he is liaising with local councils to ensure the proper application of animal welfare rights and policy; (ii) how performance, and the application of legislation and policy by animal welfare officers is monitored and assessed; and (iii) whether there are plans to strengthen animal welfare laws to counter increasing instances of animal cruelty.","answerText":"My Department liaises regularly with local councils to discuss the direction of animal welfare policy and any potential legislative developments. However, the implementation and enforcement of non-farmed animal welfare remains the statutory responsibility of each council and they are best placed to determine how this function should be discharged to meet the specific requirements of their region.\n\nI am acutely aware of the calls for reform of animal welfare in Northern Ireland and I will be considering options in the time ahead, to determine what is needed, and what is deliverable, within the remainder of this mandate.","answerHtml":"My Department liaises regularly with local councils to discuss the direction of animal welfare policy and any potential legislative developments. However, the implementation and enforcement of non-farmed animal welfare remains the statutory responsibility of each council and they are best placed to determine how this function should be discharged to meet the specific requirements of their region.
I am acutely aware of the calls for reform of animal welfare in Northern Ireland and I will be considering options in the time ahead, to determine what is needed, and what is deliverable, within the remainder of this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010274%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397796","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397796"}},{"id":"397608","reference":"AQW 10183/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail the amount raised by schools through fundraising in each of the last five years; and (ii) for his assessment of any increased reliance by schools on fundraising and support from parents for simple operating costs.","answerText":"Under current legislation raising additional funds by schools through fundraising is a matter for Boards of Governors. For this reason, my Department does not collect data on school fundraising activities.\n\nHowever, in seeking to fully answer your question, the Education Authority has provided information on the levels of income that controlled and maintained schools have lodged into their delegated budgets, which these schools have classified as fundraising. The amounts for the last five years are outlined below.\n\nFinancial Year\tAmount £\n2019-20\t2,096,462\n2020-21\t1,453,556\n2021-22\t1,103,136\n2022-23\t1,718,585\n2023-24 (Provisional)\t2,118,161\nTotal\t8,489,900\n\nDuring my frequent visits to schools, I hear firsthand about the significant financial pressures facing schools and, in some instances, schools having to fundraise or seek voluntary contributions from parents in order to fund basic operating costs. Clearly, this is a serious concern to me.\n\nAdditional and much needed funding for our schools is an issue that I continue to highlight to my Executive colleagues. Going forward, I will continue to take every opportunity to make the case for additional investment in our children and young people’s education. However, you will appreciate that my Department does not determine what its final budget outcome will be. Rather, education pressures are considered alongside the competing pressures of all departments with my Department’s overall budget allocation being decided collectively by the Northern Ireland Executive.","answerHtml":"Under current legislation raising additional funds by schools through fundraising is a matter for Boards of Governors. For this reason, my Department does not collect data on school fundraising activities.
However, in seeking to fully answer your question, the Education Authority has provided information on the levels of income that controlled and maintained schools have lodged into their delegated budgets, which these schools have classified as fundraising. The amounts for the last five years are outlined below.
| Financial Year | Amount £ |
| 2019-20 | 2,096,462 |
| 2020-21 | 1,453,556 |
| 2021-22 | 1,103,136 |
| 2022-23 | 1,718,585 |
| 2023-24 (Provisional) | 2,118,161 |
| Total | 8,489,900 |
During my frequent visits to schools, I hear firsthand about the significant financial pressures facing schools and, in some instances, schools having to fundraise or seek voluntary contributions from parents in order to fund basic operating costs. Clearly, this is a serious concern to me.
Additional and much needed funding for our schools is an issue that I continue to highlight to my Executive colleagues. Going forward, I will continue to take every opportunity to make the case for additional investment in our children and young people’s education. However, you will appreciate that my Department does not determine what its final budget outcome will be. Rather, education pressures are considered alongside the competing pressures of all departments with my Department’s overall budget allocation being decided collectively by the Northern Ireland Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010183%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397608","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397608"}},{"id":"397607","reference":"AQW 10182/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether there are any plans to change the Housing Executive points system to include those who are survivors of historical institutional abuse.","answerText":"I acknowledge the trauma experienced by survivors of historical institutional abuse. The Housing Selection Scheme awards points based on housing need. Points are considered on the grounds of health and social well-being, including consideration of complex needs and any social, support and care needs that the applicant or any member of their household may have. Each case is considered on its own merit, based on the applicant’s housing needs under the provisions of the Scheme.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the trauma experienced by survivors of historical institutional abuse. The Housing Selection Scheme awards points based on housing need. Points are considered on the grounds of health and social well-being, including consideration of complex needs and any social, support and care needs that the applicant or any member of their household may have. Each case is considered on its own merit, based on the applicant’s housing needs under the provisions of the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010182%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397607"}},{"id":"397606","reference":"AQW 10181/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) what steps he (a) has taken; and (b) will take to enable schools to plan multi-year projects; and (ii) any engagement he has had with the Minister of Finance in relation to confirming the ability to do so in relation to his Department's budget.","answerText":"My Department already has several multi-year programmes (Majors, FSA, SEPs) and indeed some larger minor works currently in planning.\n\nUnfortunately with single year budgets, it is difficult to plan. As 2024-25 is the last year of the current Spending Review period, a multi-year budget has not been possible this time. I am advised that the Finance Minister has pressed both the Chief Secretary to the Treasury and the shadow Secretary of State on the need for a multi-year settlement. It goes without saying that I fully support her efforts in relation to this key issue.\n\nAs I have previously stated, it is my intention to continue to make the case for significant additional and sustained capital budget to invest right across the schools’ estate.\n\nI have made the case for additional and sustained capital investment in our education infrastructure and I had a constructive bilateral meeting with the Department of Finance Minister on 21 March and will continue to engage at both Executive and with the DoF Minister as necessary.","answerHtml":"My Department already has several multi-year programmes (Majors, FSA, SEPs) and indeed some larger minor works currently in planning.
Unfortunately with single year budgets, it is difficult to plan. As 2024-25 is the last year of the current Spending Review period, a multi-year budget has not been possible this time. I am advised that the Finance Minister has pressed both the Chief Secretary to the Treasury and the shadow Secretary of State on the need for a multi-year settlement. It goes without saying that I fully support her efforts in relation to this key issue.
As I have previously stated, it is my intention to continue to make the case for significant additional and sustained capital budget to invest right across the schools’ estate.
I have made the case for additional and sustained capital investment in our education infrastructure and I had a constructive bilateral meeting with the Department of Finance Minister on 21 March and will continue to engage at both Executive and with the DoF Minister as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010181%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397606","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397606"}},{"id":"397605","reference":"AQW 10180/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) when funding for the education of pupils with special educational needs or disabilities will be made available for the next academic year; and (ii) whether every child with special educational needs or disabilities will have a suitable place in a school that will comprehensively meet their needs from the start of the 2024-25 academic year.","answerText":"Departments’ opening budgets for 2024-25 have only recently been agreed by the Northern Ireland Executive and I will very shortly make final budget decisions with regard to the pressures the department currently faces. Key stakeholders (e.g. the Education Authority (EA) and schools) will be notified of their final opening allocations for 2024-25 shortly thereafter.\n\nChildren with a statement of special educational needs (SEN) follow a different process (to the open enrolment schools admissions process) to secure a school placement which considers the most appropriate school placement to meet their needs as set out in their statement, in consultation with parents and schools. This is on an individual basis for each child with a statement of SEN.\n\nThe situation for September 2024 remains very challenging with latest EA planning assumptions indicating that almost 5,800 children with a statement of SEN require a change of placement for September 2024, with an estimated 1,000 additional places needed across Northern Ireland to meet this demand. There has been significant progress made in agreeing solutions with schools to meet this demand through the creation of additional capacity in special schools and new specialist provision in mainstream schools (SPiMS). Focused work continues to secure solutions for September 2024 and the EA continues to work at pace on a significant programme of work to create additional specialist education places in both special schools and SPiMS for the 2024/25 academic year.\n\nMeeting this demand will require the widespread support of schools and my officials recently wrote to all nursery, primary and post-primary schools requesting that they consider their capacity to establish specialist provision and what support they require to do so. They are awaiting the results of a short survey which will help identify further options for exploration.","answerHtml":"Departments’ opening budgets for 2024-25 have only recently been agreed by the Northern Ireland Executive and I will very shortly make final budget decisions with regard to the pressures the department currently faces. Key stakeholders (e.g. the Education Authority (EA) and schools) will be notified of their final opening allocations for 2024-25 shortly thereafter.
Children with a statement of special educational needs (SEN) follow a different process (to the open enrolment schools admissions process) to secure a school placement which considers the most appropriate school placement to meet their needs as set out in their statement, in consultation with parents and schools. This is on an individual basis for each child with a statement of SEN.
The situation for September 2024 remains very challenging with latest EA planning assumptions indicating that almost 5,800 children with a statement of SEN require a change of placement for September 2024, with an estimated 1,000 additional places needed across Northern Ireland to meet this demand. There has been significant progress made in agreeing solutions with schools to meet this demand through the creation of additional capacity in special schools and new specialist provision in mainstream schools (SPiMS). Focused work continues to secure solutions for September 2024 and the EA continues to work at pace on a significant programme of work to create additional specialist education places in both special schools and SPiMS for the 2024/25 academic year.
Meeting this demand will require the widespread support of schools and my officials recently wrote to all nursery, primary and post-primary schools requesting that they consider their capacity to establish specialist provision and what support they require to do so. They are awaiting the results of a short survey which will help identify further options for exploration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010180%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397605","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397605"}},{"id":"397604","reference":"AQW 10179/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-16","answerBy":"2024-05-01","answered":"2024-05-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the budget to meet and maintain the recent pay deal for teachers has been, and will be, ring-fenced to guarantee this rise in future years.","answerText":"Following the agreement of the financial package from HM Treasury earlier in the year, my Department was allocated additional funding to contribute towards the settling of three years of outstanding non-contractual teaching pay awards in 2023-24. The recurring impact of settling these pay awards, is estimated at £166m in 2024-25.\n\nAll Department’s opening budgets for 2024-25 were agreed last week by the Northern Ireland Executive. I will very shortly make final budget decisions with regard to the pressures my Department currently faces. Key education stakeholders, such as the Education Authority and schools, will be notified of their final opening allocations for 2024-25 shortly thereafter.","answerHtml":"Following the agreement of the financial package from HM Treasury earlier in the year, my Department was allocated additional funding to contribute towards the settling of three years of outstanding non-contractual teaching pay awards in 2023-24. The recurring impact of settling these pay awards, is estimated at £166m in 2024-25.
All Department’s opening budgets for 2024-25 were agreed last week by the Northern Ireland Executive. I will very shortly make final budget decisions with regard to the pressures my Department currently faces. Key education stakeholders, such as the Education Authority and schools, will be notified of their final opening allocations for 2024-25 shortly thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010179%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397604","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397604"}},{"id":"397401","reference":"AQW 10094/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-15","answerBy":"2024-04-30","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why GP pharmacists are not paid the same as other members of GP multi-disciplinary teams; (ii) whether there are plans to include GP pharmacists in the Agenda of Change pay scaling; and (iii) for his assessment of how the current disparity in pay is impacting the recruitment and retaining of GP pharmacists.","answerText":"My Department is aware of the various issues regarding remuneration for GP practice pharmacists employed by GP Federations which you have raised. I can assure you that such issues are already subject to ongoing discussions between the Department of Health (DoH) and key stakeholders.\n\nThe GP Pharmacist Oversight Board was established by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within the DoH in December 2023. The group brings together representatives from all key stakeholder groups, including SPPG, DoH, GP Federations and GPC (General Practitioners Committee) to facilitate collaborative working to optimise the working arrangements of the GPP workforce, in line with strategic priorities of the DoH Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework. The group will oversee the delivery of the service and facilitate discussion and resolution to issues relating to the GPP workforce employed in General Practices. The group also aims to develop the General Practice Pharmacist workforce, in line with DoH strategic direction and the Pharmacy Workforce Review, which is being progressed through Service Delivery and Service Development subgroups.\n\nDoH will continue to work closely with stakeholders over the following months to address the issues to which this question refers","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of the various issues regarding remuneration for GP practice pharmacists employed by GP Federations which you have raised. I can assure you that such issues are already subject to ongoing discussions between the Department of Health (DoH) and key stakeholders.
The GP Pharmacist Oversight Board was established by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) within the DoH in December 2023. The group brings together representatives from all key stakeholder groups, including SPPG, DoH, GP Federations and GPC (General Practitioners Committee) to facilitate collaborative working to optimise the working arrangements of the GPP workforce, in line with strategic priorities of the DoH Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework. The group will oversee the delivery of the service and facilitate discussion and resolution to issues relating to the GPP workforce employed in General Practices. The group also aims to develop the General Practice Pharmacist workforce, in line with DoH strategic direction and the Pharmacy Workforce Review, which is being progressed through Service Delivery and Service Development subgroups.
DoH will continue to work closely with stakeholders over the following months to address the issues to which this question refers
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010094%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397401","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397401"}},{"id":"397400","reference":"AQW 10093/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-15","answerBy":"2024-04-30","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Housing Executive has a responsibility to adequately train its housing advisors to better understand and work with people experiencing issues such as addiction, poor mental health, domestic abuse, elder abuse, homelessness and other issues relevant to housing and homelessness.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.\n\n“Upon recruitment, all Housing Advisors are provided with 15 days of functional induction training, with this training covering a breadth of issues ranging from NIHE’s statutory duties in respect of housing and homelessness assistance, to the ability to provide support to vulnerable households presenting for assistance.\n\nThe functional induction training programme for Housing Advisors is designed to provide NIHE staff with a basis of the key skills and knowledge required to carry out their role to best meet the needs of customers at the time of presentation to the Housing Executive.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive. I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows.
“Upon recruitment, all Housing Advisors are provided with 15 days of functional induction training, with this training covering a breadth of issues ranging from NIHE’s statutory duties in respect of housing and homelessness assistance, to the ability to provide support to vulnerable households presenting for assistance.
The functional induction training programme for Housing Advisors is designed to provide NIHE staff with a basis of the key skills and knowledge required to carry out their role to best meet the needs of customers at the time of presentation to the Housing Executive.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010093%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397400","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397400"}},{"id":"397399","reference":"AQW 10092/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-15","answerBy":"2024-04-30","answered":"2024-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any initiatives his Department provides to identify and help people escape a long-term period of homelessness.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to homelessness, including provision of homelessness accommodation, as such I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Housing Executive’s approach to identify and help people escape a long-term period of homelessness is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 which can be found on https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/73313718-aa0e-4aae-b122-6573dcab88c7/Ending-Homelessness-Together-Homelessness-Strategy-2022-27.pdf “","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to homelessness, including provision of homelessness accommodation, as such I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Housing Executive’s approach to identify and help people escape a long-term period of homelessness is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2022-27 which can be found on https://www.nihe.gov.uk/getattachment/73313718-aa0e-4aae-b122-6573dcab88c7/Ending-Homelessness-Together-Homelessness-Strategy-2022-27.pdf “
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010092%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397399","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397399"}},{"id":"397398","reference":"AQW 10091/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-15","answerBy":"2024-04-30","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people who are (i) receiving; or (ii) applying for Personal Independence Payments because they are unable to work due to being on a waiting list for orthopaedic treatment.","answerText":"My Department does not hold the information requested. The latest published Personal Independence Payment (PIP) statistics for Northern Ireland were published in February 2024, covering up to November 2023 and can be accessed via the link below:\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/personal-independence-payment-statistics-november-2023","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold the information requested. The latest published Personal Independence Payment (PIP) statistics for Northern Ireland were published in February 2024, covering up to November 2023 and can be accessed via the link below:
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/personal-independence-payment-statistics-november-2023
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010091%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397398","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397398"}},{"id":"397397","reference":"AQW 10090/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-15","answerBy":"2024-04-30","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any correlation observed between those suffering from orthopaedic pain and alcohol or drug addiction issues.","answerText":"The misuse of prescription medication has been shown to be associated with a wide range of substance use related harms. As well as people illicitly seeking out prescription medicines, there can also be issues with involuntary addiction to prescription medications if they are not taken or prescribed in line with guidelines – this can particularly occur in relation to sedatives/tranquilisers and opioids in relation to managing chronic pain.\n\nA review was undertaken in England in 2017 to identify the scale, distribution and causes of prescription drug dependence, and what might be done to address it. It showed that in the year 2017-18, 1-in-4 adults in England were prescribed benzodiazepines, z-drugs, gabapentinoids, opioids for chronic non-cancer pain, or antidepressants.\n\nThere are also cases where individuals try to access medication online if prescriptions they feel they require are not increased or stopped too quickly. This increases their chances of getting lower quality medication and incorrect dosage quantities which can lead to an increased risk of harm.\n\nUnder the NI Executive’s substance use strategy Preventing Harm Empowering Recovery, DoH Strategic Planning & Performance Group will produce an updated Prescription Drug Misuse Action Plan which, building on current processes, will include additional support to monitor prescribing levels, as well as support for prescribers to better understand who may be at risk of harms.","answerHtml":"The misuse of prescription medication has been shown to be associated with a wide range of substance use related harms. As well as people illicitly seeking out prescription medicines, there can also be issues with involuntary addiction to prescription medications if they are not taken or prescribed in line with guidelines – this can particularly occur in relation to sedatives/tranquilisers and opioids in relation to managing chronic pain.
A review was undertaken in England in 2017 to identify the scale, distribution and causes of prescription drug dependence, and what might be done to address it. It showed that in the year 2017-18, 1-in-4 adults in England were prescribed benzodiazepines, z-drugs, gabapentinoids, opioids for chronic non-cancer pain, or antidepressants.
There are also cases where individuals try to access medication online if prescriptions they feel they require are not increased or stopped too quickly. This increases their chances of getting lower quality medication and incorrect dosage quantities which can lead to an increased risk of harm.
Under the NI Executive’s substance use strategy Preventing Harm Empowering Recovery, DoH Strategic Planning & Performance Group will produce an updated Prescription Drug Misuse Action Plan which, building on current processes, will include additional support to monitor prescribing levels, as well as support for prescribers to better understand who may be at risk of harms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010090%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397397","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397397"}},{"id":"397225","reference":"AQW 10004/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-12","answerBy":"2024-04-29","answered":"2024-05-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of how wastewater limits are preventing the opening of new businesses in town centres; (ii) whether the Department or local council’s understanding of the wastewater situation in the area is, or can be, shared with the applicant prior to them paying for a wastewater impact assessment; and (iii) to detail the difference in cost between private and NI Water wastewater impact assessments.","answerText":"The issues you raised are operational matters for NI Water. You should therefore direct your question to NI Water, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com.\n\nIn terms of my Department’s responsibilities, I can advise that NI Water has received substantial allocations of public money during the current and previous Price Control periods, to enable it to deliver on water and wastewater services for all areas across the North.\n\nLike all public services, NI Water is facing challenges, but as demonstrated by the figures below, it has received significant public investment in recent years, and indeed in 2023-24 it was provided with the highest levels of capital budget allocated to the company to date to enable it to keep delivering essential improvements.\n\nPrice Control Period\tResource DEL\tCapital DEL\nPC15 (2015-2021)\t£683.8m\t£947.3m\nPC21 (2021-2024)\t£491.6m\t£849.5m","answerHtml":"The issues you raised are operational matters for NI Water. You should therefore direct your question to NI Water, through the Elected Representatives Hotline on 0345 300 6461 or through waterline@niwater.com.
In terms of my Department’s responsibilities, I can advise that NI Water has received substantial allocations of public money during the current and previous Price Control periods, to enable it to deliver on water and wastewater services for all areas across the North.
Like all public services, NI Water is facing challenges, but as demonstrated by the figures below, it has received significant public investment in recent years, and indeed in 2023-24 it was provided with the highest levels of capital budget allocated to the company to date to enable it to keep delivering essential improvements.
| Price Control Period | Resource DEL | Capital DEL |
| PC15 (2015-2021) | £683.8m | £947.3m |
| PC21 (2021-2024) | £491.6m | £849.5m |
NIE Networks is a privately owned company operating under a conditional license issued and enforced by the Utility Regulator. Reliability of supply requirements and targets are a matter for the regulator to address.
NIE Networks website has information and advice for any customer affected by Planned Work in their area and seeks to minimise disruption to business and domestic customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010003%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397224"}},{"id":"397223","reference":"AQW 10002/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-12","answerBy":"2024-04-29","answered":"2024-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the changes to the level of security of the personal details of people in occupations such as those in the PSNI or Prison Service, that will accompany the change from tax credits to Universal Credit; (ii) whether an impact assessment on this issue has been carried out; and (iii) whether he has raised this issue with the Department of Work and Pensions.","answerText":"The Universal Credit system is owned and managed by the Department for Work and Pensions and used by my Department for the administration of Universal Credit in Northern Ireland. Both the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Communities are subject to professional and legal expectations surrounding the protection of personal data and take these responsibilities very seriously. Beyond the legal requirement for protecting personal data, it is also recognised that claimants will carry higher sensitivities for a variety of reasons, both personal and professional, and these will have been considered as part of the Universal Credit design.","answerHtml":"The Universal Credit system is owned and managed by the Department for Work and Pensions and used by my Department for the administration of Universal Credit in Northern Ireland. Both the Department for Work and Pensions and the Department for Communities are subject to professional and legal expectations surrounding the protection of personal data and take these responsibilities very seriously. Beyond the legal requirement for protecting personal data, it is also recognised that claimants will carry higher sensitivities for a variety of reasons, both personal and professional, and these will have been considered as part of the Universal Credit design.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010002%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397223"}},{"id":"397222","reference":"AQW 10001/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-12","answerBy":"2024-04-29","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail his Department’s responsibilities to protect an existing road network, where a planning application has been approved and built, but with recommendations from the local planning office that steps be taken to mitigate anticipated negative impacts on the road network that were subsequently brought to fruition.","answerText":"DfI Roads is a statutory consultee to the planning process and provides advice to Council planning to enable progression of applications. When consulted by the planning authority, my department assesses the proposed development to determine its transport impact and how best to mitigate any adverse impacts on the road network.\n\nWhere applicable, my department will recommend conditions to be included as part of an approval. The planning authority is responsible for ensuring a Developer complies with any conditions recommended by the department.","answerHtml":"DfI Roads is a statutory consultee to the planning process and provides advice to Council planning to enable progression of applications. When consulted by the planning authority, my department assesses the proposed development to determine its transport impact and how best to mitigate any adverse impacts on the road network.
Where applicable, my department will recommend conditions to be included as part of an approval. The planning authority is responsible for ensuring a Developer complies with any conditions recommended by the department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010001%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=397222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=397222"}},{"id":"396994","reference":"AQW 9888/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, when using private resources to carry out NHS treatment, whether a patient’s Health and Social Care Trust has a responsibility to maximise efficiency, convenience and cost for the patient.","answerText":"When a reasonable offer of treatment is made by a Trust to a waiting list patient, the availability of service capacity will normally take precedence over the convenience and travel time to the provider. Patients have the option to accept or decline the offer. Reference: Integrated Elective Access Protocol Reasonable Offers:\n\n4.5.3 A reasonable offer is defined as:\n\n• an offer of admission, irrespective of provider or location, that gives the patient a minimum of three weeks’ notice and a choice of two To Come In dates, and\n\n• at least one of the offers must be within Northern Ireland., except for any regional specialties where there are no alternative providers within Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"When a reasonable offer of treatment is made by a Trust to a waiting list patient, the availability of service capacity will normally take precedence over the convenience and travel time to the provider. Patients have the option to accept or decline the offer. Reference: Integrated Elective Access Protocol Reasonable Offers:
4.5.3 A reasonable offer is defined as:
• an offer of admission, irrespective of provider or location, that gives the patient a minimum of three weeks’ notice and a choice of two To Come In dates, and
• at least one of the offers must be within Northern Ireland., except for any regional specialties where there are no alternative providers within Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209888%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396994"}},{"id":"396993","reference":"AQW 9887/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 9468/22-27, to detail potential resolutions to the issues faced in securing providers for rural primary schools in the Healthy Happy Minds pilot.","answerText":"I will take the time to assess the findings of the evaluation and the recommendations contained therein, including rural proofing. It will also be important to consider other relevant research and feedback from stakeholders, and the availability of these health professionals across all services, when developing a longer-term approach to supporting children and young people’s emotional health and wellbeing in education. Of course, this must be delivered within the budgetary resources available.","answerHtml":"I will take the time to assess the findings of the evaluation and the recommendations contained therein, including rural proofing. It will also be important to consider other relevant research and feedback from stakeholders, and the availability of these health professionals across all services, when developing a longer-term approach to supporting children and young people’s emotional health and wellbeing in education. Of course, this must be delivered within the budgetary resources available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209887%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396993"}},{"id":"396992","reference":"AQW 9886/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-11","answerBy":"2024-04-26","answered":"2024-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for his assessment of whether allowing people, whose vehicle has recently passed an MoT test, to book an appointment for approximately one year’s time, would reduce waiting lists and backlog issues and enable people to get an appointment at a reasonable date.","answerText":"Annual vehicle roadworthiness inspections are conducted in accordance with The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003. The regulations do not permit an MOT to be booked more than three months before it is due.\n\nExtending the window for customers to book a test in advance of their MOT expiry date would increase demand on the service reducing the availability of appointments for those customers who require one more urgently.\n\nThe latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at A guide to booking your MOT/ vehicle test | nidirect and is also included as an advice note with every MOT reminder letter issued to customers.","answerHtml":"Annual vehicle roadworthiness inspections are conducted in accordance with The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003. The regulations do not permit an MOT to be booked more than three months before it is due.
Extending the window for customers to book a test in advance of their MOT expiry date would increase demand on the service reducing the availability of appointments for those customers who require one more urgently.
The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at A guide to booking your MOT/ vehicle test | nidirect and is also included as an advice note with every MOT reminder letter issued to customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209886%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396992"}},{"id":"396788","reference":"AQW 9787/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans to develop an ADHD strategy, similar to the Autism Strategy.","answerText":"Provision of service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment and diagnosis has grown organically across Trusts in response to population demand and available expertise within Health & Social Care teams. Whilst a level of provision is available for ADHD referrals there are currently no specifically commissioned services. The Department is aware that this has led to inconsistencies in provision between Trusts and inconsistent pathways and service gaps.\n\nThe Department is committed to working closely and collaboratively with Health and Social Care Trusts to develop innovative, cost effective, co-produced, quality, and evidenced based services that can meet NICE compliant pathways for ADHD diagnosis and support. In line with the usual process for commissioning services, any decision to commission ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.\n\nDepartment of Health officials are now considering how best to progress the issue, in discussion with relevant stakeholders. Subject to future budget availability, potential next steps include the commissioning of research/analysis of adult ADHD demand to inform options for future commissioning strategies, as well as a regional workshop to explore potential ways forward.","answerHtml":"Provision of service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment and diagnosis has grown organically across Trusts in response to population demand and available expertise within Health & Social Care teams. Whilst a level of provision is available for ADHD referrals there are currently no specifically commissioned services. The Department is aware that this has led to inconsistencies in provision between Trusts and inconsistent pathways and service gaps.
The Department is committed to working closely and collaboratively with Health and Social Care Trusts to develop innovative, cost effective, co-produced, quality, and evidenced based services that can meet NICE compliant pathways for ADHD diagnosis and support. In line with the usual process for commissioning services, any decision to commission ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of future budget availability.
Department of Health officials are now considering how best to progress the issue, in discussion with relevant stakeholders. Subject to future budget availability, potential next steps include the commissioning of research/analysis of adult ADHD demand to inform options for future commissioning strategies, as well as a regional workshop to explore potential ways forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209787%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396788"}},{"id":"396787","reference":"AQW 9786/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any (i) pilot schemes; and (ii) temporary trials that are (a) in place; and (b) planned involving adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment.","answerText":"pilot schemes; and (ii) temporary trials that are (a) in place.\n\nIn relation to pilot schemes and temporary trials Northern Trust are currently the only Trust with a pilot in place. A number of factors prompted the Northern Trust to progress with a small, unfunded pilot that saw those who have been referred to the Trust for Adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment, being placed on a waiting list and then being offered an appointment with the Trust. Part of the Pilot process is detailed pre-screening to ensure assessments are offered, where there is a high likelihood of Adult ADHD. All patients on any waiting list remain under the care of their GP.\n\nThis pilot approach has taken time to establish given the preparatory work required. Communication with individuals on the register commenced in December 2023, in chronological order of date of original referral.\n\nplanned involving adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment.\n\nProvision of service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment and diagnosis has grown organically across Trusts in response to population demand and available expertise within Health & Social Care teams. Whilst a level of provision is available for ADHD referrals, currently there are no specifically commissioned services. The Department is aware that this has led to inconsistencies in provision of services between Trusts and inconsistent pathways and service gaps. The limited capacity available in Trusts in terms of meeting demand and the prevalence of adult ADHD is leading to individuals having to wait longer for assessment and support than described in NICE guidelines.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Trusts are committed to work closely and collaboratively with commissioners to develop innovative, cost effective, co-produced, quality, and evidenced based services that can meet the needs of patients with ADHD within Trust areas. This work would include the development of clinical pathways.\n\nDepartment of Health officials are regularly reviewing the situation regarding the commissioning of Adult ADHD services, recognising that the demand for ADHD diagnosis has risen in recent years. Any decision to commission Adult ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of budget availability.\n\nDepartment of Health officials are now considering how best to progress the issue, in discussion with relevant stakeholders. Subject to future budget availability, potential next steps include the commissioning of research/analysis of adult ADHD demand to inform options for future commissioning strategies, as well as a regional workshop to explore potential ways forward.","answerHtml":"pilot schemes; and (ii) temporary trials that are (a) in place.
In relation to pilot schemes and temporary trials Northern Trust are currently the only Trust with a pilot in place. A number of factors prompted the Northern Trust to progress with a small, unfunded pilot that saw those who have been referred to the Trust for Adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment, being placed on a waiting list and then being offered an appointment with the Trust. Part of the Pilot process is detailed pre-screening to ensure assessments are offered, where there is a high likelihood of Adult ADHD. All patients on any waiting list remain under the care of their GP.
This pilot approach has taken time to establish given the preparatory work required. Communication with individuals on the register commenced in December 2023, in chronological order of date of original referral.
planned involving adult ADHD diagnosis and treatment.
Provision of service for Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) assessment and diagnosis has grown organically across Trusts in response to population demand and available expertise within Health & Social Care teams. Whilst a level of provision is available for ADHD referrals, currently there are no specifically commissioned services. The Department is aware that this has led to inconsistencies in provision of services between Trusts and inconsistent pathways and service gaps. The limited capacity available in Trusts in terms of meeting demand and the prevalence of adult ADHD is leading to individuals having to wait longer for assessment and support than described in NICE guidelines.
The Health and Social Care Trusts are committed to work closely and collaboratively with commissioners to develop innovative, cost effective, co-produced, quality, and evidenced based services that can meet the needs of patients with ADHD within Trust areas. This work would include the development of clinical pathways.
Department of Health officials are regularly reviewing the situation regarding the commissioning of Adult ADHD services, recognising that the demand for ADHD diagnosis has risen in recent years. Any decision to commission Adult ADHD services in the future will be based on an assessment of the level of demand for services, and in the context of budget availability.
Department of Health officials are now considering how best to progress the issue, in discussion with relevant stakeholders. Subject to future budget availability, potential next steps include the commissioning of research/analysis of adult ADHD demand to inform options for future commissioning strategies, as well as a regional workshop to explore potential ways forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209786%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396787"}},{"id":"396786","reference":"AQW 9785/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to ensure that (i) everyone with dementia receives an official diagnosis; and (ii) the type of dementia and the ethnicity of the patient is recorded by NISRA.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209785%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396786"}},{"id":"396785","reference":"AQW 9784/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the number of times Article 6 of the Pollution Control and Local Government (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 has been used by local councils to force owners to make improvements to a dilapidated property, broken down by council area, in each of the last ten years; and (ii) the efforts his Department has made, and will make, to encourage councils to use the powers they have in this regard, particularly in reference to the impact on the neighbouring properties and area of increased insurance premiums, reduced property value, the visual impact, and anti-social behaviour.","answerText":"This information is not available to my department;\n\nDistrict councils are encouraged to use all legislation at their disposal to deal with the blight of dilapidation. The 1978 Order is only one of a number of pieces of disparate legislation currently available to councils, much of which dates back to the 19th century and / or applies to specific geographical areas and is limited in its scope and effectiveness.\n\nSubject to Executive approval, I intend to introduce a Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly this year. The Bill will consolidate and enhance the existing legislation and improve councils’ cost recovery abilities.","answerHtml":"This information is not available to my department;
District councils are encouraged to use all legislation at their disposal to deal with the blight of dilapidation. The 1978 Order is only one of a number of pieces of disparate legislation currently available to councils, much of which dates back to the 19th century and / or applies to specific geographical areas and is limited in its scope and effectiveness.
Subject to Executive approval, I intend to introduce a Dilapidation Bill to the Assembly this year. The Bill will consolidate and enhance the existing legislation and improve councils’ cost recovery abilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209784%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396785"}},{"id":"396784","reference":"AQW 9783/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-10","answerBy":"2024-04-25","answered":"2024-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the Housing Executive has a responsibility to explore both social and private rental options when sourcing a property for a homeless tenant.","answerText":"The NIHE offers tailored advice and assistance to applicants, assessing their long-term housing needs as well as any immediate housing issues and providing a range of tenure-neutral housing options and choices.\n\nThese options may include Social Housing, Private Rented Accommodation or Home Ownership, with the primary aim to help applicants make informed choices.\n\nWhile it has been custom and practice for the NIHE to discharge the statutory homeless duty in the social housing sector, existing legislation also allows for the homelessness duty to be discharged in the private sector.\n\nProposal 4 (NIHE can meet their duty to homeless applicants on a tenure-neutral basis) of the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations aims to explore options to enable NIHE, where appropriate, to meet its homelessness duty by securing suitable accommodation in the private rented sector, subject to certain safeguards.\n\nFor instance, such accommodation will be reasonable for the household to occupy; of the appropriate standard; and available for a reasonable period of time.","answerHtml":"The NIHE offers tailored advice and assistance to applicants, assessing their long-term housing needs as well as any immediate housing issues and providing a range of tenure-neutral housing options and choices.
These options may include Social Housing, Private Rented Accommodation or Home Ownership, with the primary aim to help applicants make informed choices.
While it has been custom and practice for the NIHE to discharge the statutory homeless duty in the social housing sector, existing legislation also allows for the homelessness duty to be discharged in the private sector.
Proposal 4 (NIHE can meet their duty to homeless applicants on a tenure-neutral basis) of the Fundamental Review of Social Housing Allocations aims to explore options to enable NIHE, where appropriate, to meet its homelessness duty by securing suitable accommodation in the private rented sector, subject to certain safeguards.
For instance, such accommodation will be reasonable for the household to occupy; of the appropriate standard; and available for a reasonable period of time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209783%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396784","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396784"}},{"id":"396639","reference":"AQW 9709/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the reasons why further education lecturers receive lower pay than teachers at both primary and post-primary school level.","answerText":"Further Education lecturers’ pay, as well as the terms and conditions of employment, are matters for the Further Education colleges as employers. The pay, and the terms and conditions, for teachers are the responsibility of the Department of Education.\n\nAs I am committed to ensuring that the pay and conditions provided to Further Education lecturers fully recognises the range of teaching and learning that they deliver to our students, I have approved a budget envelope which has allowed the Further Education colleges to make a revised pay offer consisting of an increase of lecturers’ starting salary to £30,000 plus a pay increase of 8.4% and a consolidated £1,000 on all other pay points. This is a first step towards parity with teachers.","answerHtml":"Further Education lecturers’ pay, as well as the terms and conditions of employment, are matters for the Further Education colleges as employers. The pay, and the terms and conditions, for teachers are the responsibility of the Department of Education.
As I am committed to ensuring that the pay and conditions provided to Further Education lecturers fully recognises the range of teaching and learning that they deliver to our students, I have approved a budget envelope which has allowed the Further Education colleges to make a revised pay offer consisting of an increase of lecturers’ starting salary to £30,000 plus a pay increase of 8.4% and a consolidated £1,000 on all other pay points. This is a first step towards parity with teachers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209709%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396639","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396639"}},{"id":"396638","reference":"AQW 9708/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of figures from Carers NI that show 220,000 people, mostly older and female, care for a friend or family member unpaid, half of whom care more than 90 hours per week; (ii) how this situation has changed over the last five years; (iii) for his assessment of the impact on the physical and mental health of unpaid carers; (iv) what steps have been taken, or are planned, to improve the lives of unpaid carers and the ease of accessing the services available to them; and (v) to detail the ability, including funding-wise, of his Department to take steps to improve the support provided to unpaid carers.","answerText":"I acknowledge the vital role played by family carers in Northern Ireland, and I recognise the significant role and contribution that family carers make, not only to the people they care for, but within the whole system of adult social care. I understand that research carried out by Carers NI showed that around 60% of unpaid carers in Northern Ireland are women, with more than 1 in 6 women in employment providing unpaid care. This research also noted that women have a 70% chance of providing care in their adult life and are more likely to care earlier in their life. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of people providing some form of unpaid care will likely have increased, and this may increase further given our growing ageing population and people living longer. I am committed to raising awareness of the role that unpaid carers play in our society and ensuring they are supported and valued.\n\nGiven population demographics, it is clear that the number of family carers will continue to increase in years to come. It is therefore vital that the supports are in place to ensure that carers are supported, whether on a physical, financial, emotional or mental health basis. This is an issue that is wider than just Health, other Departments will need to consider how they can best support our family carers, now and in years to come. In 2019, a State of Caring report carried out by Carers NI showed that around 1 in 5 people in Northern Ireland were providing some form of unpaid care, and that women made up the majority of carers with 20% of women aged 45-54 providing the most unpaid care. In comparing these findings to the State of Caring report carried out in 2023, these figures have increased over the last five years, with 81% of respondents identifying as female, and 35% of those within the age range of 55-64 providing the most unpaid care. I also understand that a higher state pension age will mean people are working for longer and they therefore are more likely to be working whilst also carrying out their caring role.\n\nI am aware of previous research by Carers NI which outlined the detrimental impact felt by unpaid carers, on their physical and mental health, as a result of their caring role. We need to find better ways to support family carers, to allow them to continue to provide care to their loved ones, but also to ensure that their own quality of life is improved and that their needs are being met. in order to support carers with their physical and mental health. Our Health and Social Care Trusts continue to grow and adapt their services to enhance supports using online activities, increasing the information available to them and via face-to-face events. Trusts continue to proactively reach out to identify unpaid carers to ensure they have the support they need.\n\nMy Department is committed to supporting family carers. In 2023, my Department established the Social Care Collaborative Forum to provide a formal mechanism to support opportunities for greater co-operation, co-production and joined up working between the Department, the social care sector, and across Government, to implement the proposals arising out of the consultation.\n\nThe work of the Forum is being taken forward through a number of workstreams, which meet on a regular basis. A Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers NI and my Department, has been established with a workplan focused on carers specific issues, inclusive of both adult and young carers. These issues include improving information for carers, evaluating the implementation of the current Carers Strategy, and establishing a cross departmental senior official’s group to promote cross government approaches.\n\nWe continue to work within the context of an extremely challenging financial environment. Many of the proposed reforms to adult social care are subject to confirmation of funding and will therefore require prioritisation and planning, and longer-term budget stability to ensure their delivery. My Department will continue with its ongoing efforts to support our family carers, and we are committed to providing those supports both practical and financial for them, resources permitting.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the vital role played by family carers in Northern Ireland, and I recognise the significant role and contribution that family carers make, not only to the people they care for, but within the whole system of adult social care. I understand that research carried out by Carers NI showed that around 60% of unpaid carers in Northern Ireland are women, with more than 1 in 6 women in employment providing unpaid care. This research also noted that women have a 70% chance of providing care in their adult life and are more likely to care earlier in their life. Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of people providing some form of unpaid care will likely have increased, and this may increase further given our growing ageing population and people living longer. I am committed to raising awareness of the role that unpaid carers play in our society and ensuring they are supported and valued.
Given population demographics, it is clear that the number of family carers will continue to increase in years to come. It is therefore vital that the supports are in place to ensure that carers are supported, whether on a physical, financial, emotional or mental health basis. This is an issue that is wider than just Health, other Departments will need to consider how they can best support our family carers, now and in years to come. In 2019, a State of Caring report carried out by Carers NI showed that around 1 in 5 people in Northern Ireland were providing some form of unpaid care, and that women made up the majority of carers with 20% of women aged 45-54 providing the most unpaid care. In comparing these findings to the State of Caring report carried out in 2023, these figures have increased over the last five years, with 81% of respondents identifying as female, and 35% of those within the age range of 55-64 providing the most unpaid care. I also understand that a higher state pension age will mean people are working for longer and they therefore are more likely to be working whilst also carrying out their caring role.
I am aware of previous research by Carers NI which outlined the detrimental impact felt by unpaid carers, on their physical and mental health, as a result of their caring role. We need to find better ways to support family carers, to allow them to continue to provide care to their loved ones, but also to ensure that their own quality of life is improved and that their needs are being met. in order to support carers with their physical and mental health. Our Health and Social Care Trusts continue to grow and adapt their services to enhance supports using online activities, increasing the information available to them and via face-to-face events. Trusts continue to proactively reach out to identify unpaid carers to ensure they have the support they need.
My Department is committed to supporting family carers. In 2023, my Department established the Social Care Collaborative Forum to provide a formal mechanism to support opportunities for greater co-operation, co-production and joined up working between the Department, the social care sector, and across Government, to implement the proposals arising out of the consultation.
The work of the Forum is being taken forward through a number of workstreams, which meet on a regular basis. A Supporting Carers Workstream, co-chaired by Carers NI and my Department, has been established with a workplan focused on carers specific issues, inclusive of both adult and young carers. These issues include improving information for carers, evaluating the implementation of the current Carers Strategy, and establishing a cross departmental senior official’s group to promote cross government approaches.
We continue to work within the context of an extremely challenging financial environment. Many of the proposed reforms to adult social care are subject to confirmation of funding and will therefore require prioritisation and planning, and longer-term budget stability to ensure their delivery. My Department will continue with its ongoing efforts to support our family carers, and we are committed to providing those supports both practical and financial for them, resources permitting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209708%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396638","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396638"}},{"id":"396637","reference":"AQW 9707/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the process under the Shared Care programme whereby adults obtain a diagnosis for ADHD which requires regular prescriptions of medication; (ii) whether some or all NHS GPs are (a) currently writing; and (b) allowed to write, prescriptions for the necessary medication following such a diagnosis; and (iii) the conditions under which NHS GPs are able to provide such prescriptions.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland shared care arrangements may be put in place where a medicine initiated by a hospital doctor is regarded as a ‘specialist medicine’ due to the rare use of the medicine in the community and/or the requirement for complex prescribing not normally undertaken in general practice by a GP. Patients for whom such medicines are prescribed, may also have particular complex monitoring requirements, which require specialist knowledge for the appropriate interpretation of results. There are a number of medications which are prescribed for ADHD which are regarded as specialist medicines.\n\nShared-care arrangements for specialist medicines enable GPs to prescribe specialist medicines initiated by the hospital specialist. Such arrangements should be made with the agreement of all parties. The GP should have sufficient knowledge, experience and information to support them to undertake the prescribing and the hospital specialist should provide the GP and patient with sufficient information to permit the safe management of the condition. If the GP is not satisfied to take prescribing responsibility this should be explained to the specialist and patient and alternative arrangements provided by the hospital specialist.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland shared care arrangements may be put in place where a medicine initiated by a hospital doctor is regarded as a ‘specialist medicine’ due to the rare use of the medicine in the community and/or the requirement for complex prescribing not normally undertaken in general practice by a GP. Patients for whom such medicines are prescribed, may also have particular complex monitoring requirements, which require specialist knowledge for the appropriate interpretation of results. There are a number of medications which are prescribed for ADHD which are regarded as specialist medicines.
Shared-care arrangements for specialist medicines enable GPs to prescribe specialist medicines initiated by the hospital specialist. Such arrangements should be made with the agreement of all parties. The GP should have sufficient knowledge, experience and information to support them to undertake the prescribing and the hospital specialist should provide the GP and patient with sufficient information to permit the safe management of the condition. If the GP is not satisfied to take prescribing responsibility this should be explained to the specialist and patient and alternative arrangements provided by the hospital specialist.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209707%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396637","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396637"}},{"id":"396636","reference":"AQW 9706/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any correlation between those with ADHD and an increased risk of developing drug or alcohol dependency, or experiencing trauma; and (ii) the estimated percentage of the (a) Northern Ireland population; and (b) UK-wide population that currently have ADHD.","answerText":"any correlation between those with ADHD and an increased risk of developing drug or alcohol dependency, or experiencing trauma;\n\nThere is a body of evidence on the increased risk of substance misuse in people with ADHD. This is noted in the NICE guidance on ADHD diagnosis and management (last updated 2019) as follows:\n\n“Be aware that people in the following groups may have increased prevalence of ADHD compared with the general population:\n\npeople with a history of substance misuse\n\n… that untreated ADHD can have far-reaching, long-lasting negative impacts on a child or young person's life (for example, affecting academic performance, interpersonal relationships, work, personal issues, substance use and driving).\n\nSymptoms of ADHD can overlap with those of other related disorders. Therefore, care in differential diagnosis is needed. ADHD may also coexist with other disorders. Common coexisting conditions in children include disorders of mood, conduct, learning, motor control, language and communication, and anxiety disorders; in adults, they include personality disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance misuse”.\n\n(ii) the estimated percentage of the (a) Northern Ireland population; and (b) UK-wide population that currently have ADHD.\n\nThe Department does not hold specific data or information on this but from literature available, please see the following:\n\nThe global prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children is estimated to be around 5%, while studies based on US populations (where rates of diagnosis and treatment tend to be highest) estimate the rate at between 8% and 10%.\n\nADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls. Prevalence ratios are generally estimated at 2–5:1, while clinic populations show a ratio as high as 10:1. This sex difference may be due to the fact that boys present more often with disruptive behaviour that prompts referral, whereas girls more commonly have the inattentive subtype and have lower comorbidity with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder.\n\nIn the UK, the prevalence of ADHD in adults is estimated at 3% to 4%, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3:1\n\nYouth Wellbeing Survey in NI 2020 (carried out by UU and commissioned by HSCB) states the following but note it is not referring specifically to ADHD:\n\nOverall, the findings indicate that approximately 1 in 8 children and young people in Northern Ireland experience emotional difficulties, 1 in 10 experience conduct problems and 1 in 7, problems with hyperactivity. These prevalence estimates are broadly in keeping with findings from other UK surveys which have used the SDQ (Fink et al., 2015; University of Essex & Institute for Social & Economic Research, 2020), although it is notable that problems with peers and prosocial behaviour were substantially lower in NI than those identified in recent UK surveys\n\nThere is further information available in the NICE evidence review (2018) on risk factors for ADHD found in the links below.\n\nhttps://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87/evidence/a-risk-factors-pdf-4783686301\n\nhttps://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/background-information/prevalence/","answerHtml":"any correlation between those with ADHD and an increased risk of developing drug or alcohol dependency, or experiencing trauma;
There is a body of evidence on the increased risk of substance misuse in people with ADHD. This is noted in the NICE guidance on ADHD diagnosis and management (last updated 2019) as follows:
“Be aware that people in the following groups may have increased prevalence of ADHD compared with the general population:
people with a history of substance misuse
… that untreated ADHD can have far-reaching, long-lasting negative impacts on a child or young person's life (for example, affecting academic performance, interpersonal relationships, work, personal issues, substance use and driving).
Symptoms of ADHD can overlap with those of other related disorders. Therefore, care in differential diagnosis is needed. ADHD may also coexist with other disorders. Common coexisting conditions in children include disorders of mood, conduct, learning, motor control, language and communication, and anxiety disorders; in adults, they include personality disorders, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and substance misuse”.
(ii) the estimated percentage of the (a) Northern Ireland population; and (b) UK-wide population that currently have ADHD.
The Department does not hold specific data or information on this but from literature available, please see the following:
The global prevalence of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children is estimated to be around 5%, while studies based on US populations (where rates of diagnosis and treatment tend to be highest) estimate the rate at between 8% and 10%.
ADHD is more commonly diagnosed in boys than girls. Prevalence ratios are generally estimated at 2–5:1, while clinic populations show a ratio as high as 10:1. This sex difference may be due to the fact that boys present more often with disruptive behaviour that prompts referral, whereas girls more commonly have the inattentive subtype and have lower comorbidity with oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder.
In the UK, the prevalence of ADHD in adults is estimated at 3% to 4%, with a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3:1
Youth Wellbeing Survey in NI 2020 (carried out by UU and commissioned by HSCB) states the following but note it is not referring specifically to ADHD:
Overall, the findings indicate that approximately 1 in 8 children and young people in Northern Ireland experience emotional difficulties, 1 in 10 experience conduct problems and 1 in 7, problems with hyperactivity. These prevalence estimates are broadly in keeping with findings from other UK surveys which have used the SDQ (Fink et al., 2015; University of Essex & Institute for Social & Economic Research, 2020), although it is notable that problems with peers and prosocial behaviour were substantially lower in NI than those identified in recent UK surveys
There is further information available in the NICE evidence review (2018) on risk factors for ADHD found in the links below.
https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng87/evidence/a-risk-factors-pdf-4783686301
https://cks.nice.org.uk/topics/attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder/background-information/prevalence/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209706%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396636","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396636"}},{"id":"396635","reference":"AQW 9705/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-09","answerBy":"2024-04-24","answered":"2024-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the implementation of A Fair Start programme for improving educational underachievement.","answerText":"Progress in respect of the forty-six actions taken forward in the 2023/24 financial year has been good despite the significant budget constraints faced by the education sector as a whole.\n\nI am currently reviewing the fifth “A Fair Start” progress report and this will be published when Executive colleagues have had an opportunity to consider it.","answerHtml":"Progress in respect of the forty-six actions taken forward in the 2023/24 financial year has been good despite the significant budget constraints faced by the education sector as a whole.
I am currently reviewing the fifth “A Fair Start” progress report and this will be published when Executive colleagues have had an opportunity to consider it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209705%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396635","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396635"}},{"id":"396400","reference":"AQW 9594/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-08","answerBy":"2024-04-23","answered":"2024-04-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they are leading on a trauma-informed approach across all Departments and statutory agencies.","answerText":"While each agency has its own responsibilities, work to support trauma-informed practice (TIP) across the public sector has been funded since 2021 by the cross-Executive Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme. A report commissioned to review progress across the 21 Safeguarding Board member agencies and partners in developing a systemic and integrated approach to TIP was published in February 2024, and highlights successes, barriers and enablers to progress: it is available on the Safeguarding Board’s website: https://www.safeguardingni.org/resources/we-are-journey-implementing-trauma-informed-approaches-northern-ireland-evidence-report Further research is now underway to establish the prevalence of trauma and adversity in the adult population, and will report later this year.\n\nWithin the Civil Service, a resilient, engaged and productive workforce that is able to recognise, address and be resilient to trauma has never been more important. The Head of the Civil Service has committed to reviewing how to embed trauma informed approaches across the NICS and deliver trauma informed services. This will be underpinned by a trauma-informed training framework that is currently in development.\n\nAs regards TEO’s responsibilities, the new draft Strategy for Victims and Survivors of the Troubles/Conflict has a vision of a trauma-informed society that addresses the needs of victims and survivors. The T:BUC review process also included a review of international best practice in trauma-informed approaches to good relations and community building. TEO’s arm’s-length bodies established a task and finish group to consider how TIP might influence the work of TEO and its ALBs, and a training session for the Department and ALBs is now being set up.","answerHtml":"While each agency has its own responsibilities, work to support trauma-informed practice (TIP) across the public sector has been funded since 2021 by the cross-Executive Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme. A report commissioned to review progress across the 21 Safeguarding Board member agencies and partners in developing a systemic and integrated approach to TIP was published in February 2024, and highlights successes, barriers and enablers to progress: it is available on the Safeguarding Board’s website: https://www.safeguardingni.org/resources/we-are-journey-implementing-trauma-informed-approaches-northern-ireland-evidence-report Further research is now underway to establish the prevalence of trauma and adversity in the adult population, and will report later this year.
Within the Civil Service, a resilient, engaged and productive workforce that is able to recognise, address and be resilient to trauma has never been more important. The Head of the Civil Service has committed to reviewing how to embed trauma informed approaches across the NICS and deliver trauma informed services. This will be underpinned by a trauma-informed training framework that is currently in development.
As regards TEO’s responsibilities, the new draft Strategy for Victims and Survivors of the Troubles/Conflict has a vision of a trauma-informed society that addresses the needs of victims and survivors. The T:BUC review process also included a review of international best practice in trauma-informed approaches to good relations and community building. TEO’s arm’s-length bodies established a task and finish group to consider how TIP might influence the work of TEO and its ALBs, and a training session for the Department and ALBs is now being set up.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209594%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396400","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396400"}},{"id":"396399","reference":"AQW 9593/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-08","answerBy":"2024-04-23","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for a breakdown of compensation paid out by his Department due to vehicle damage caused by public roads in disrepair, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The management information my Department holds in relation to roads related public liability claims can be found online at:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/road-asset-maintenance-directorate-management-information-roads-related-claims-period-20182019\n\nTable 7.1 in the above link provides details of vehicle damage compensation paid during the last five full financial. I would, however, advise the member and other members using the above link to be cognisant of the caveats noted in respect to the information provided on roads related public liability claims.\n\nPlease also note that the figures for the 2023/2024 financial year are not currently available as the end of year financial adjustments have yet to be finalised, together with the end of year data management activities on my Department’s Claims Management System.\n\nThe link to this information is also available via the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"The management information my Department holds in relation to roads related public liability claims can be found online at:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/road-asset-maintenance-directorate-management-information-roads-related-claims-period-20182019
Table 7.1 in the above link provides details of vehicle damage compensation paid during the last five full financial. I would, however, advise the member and other members using the above link to be cognisant of the caveats noted in respect to the information provided on roads related public liability claims.
Please also note that the figures for the 2023/2024 financial year are not currently available as the end of year financial adjustments have yet to be finalised, together with the end of year data management activities on my Department’s Claims Management System.
The link to this information is also available via the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209593%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396399","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396399"}},{"id":"396398","reference":"AQW 9592/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-08","answerBy":"2024-04-23","answered":"2024-04-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, further to his approval of the teachers’ pay awards, (i) when he will announce a review of the pay and grading structure; and (ii) whether the review will include teaching assistants’ pay.","answerText":"Department officials have been in discussion with the Education Authority regarding a Pay & Grading Review business case for support staff. This was submitted to the Department of Finance and approval was granted on 4 April 2024.\n\nGiven the significant cost associated with the Pay & Grading Review, my Department will need additional funding from the Executive in order to implement its recommendations. I have therefore submitted a bid for this funding as part of the Executive’s Budget 2024-25 process.\n\nThe Pay & Grading Review covers school support staff, including classroom assistants.","answerHtml":"Department officials have been in discussion with the Education Authority regarding a Pay & Grading Review business case for support staff. This was submitted to the Department of Finance and approval was granted on 4 April 2024.
Given the significant cost associated with the Pay & Grading Review, my Department will need additional funding from the Executive in order to implement its recommendations. I have therefore submitted a bid for this funding as part of the Executive’s Budget 2024-25 process.
The Pay & Grading Review covers school support staff, including classroom assistants.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209592%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396398","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396398"}},{"id":"396397","reference":"AQW 9591/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-08","answerBy":"2024-04-23","answered":"2024-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he plans to bring forward legislation for compulsory microchipping in cats.","answerText":"My Department’s Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats already recommends that owners ensure their cats are identified, using either a collar or microchip. However, I am aware that from 10 June 2024, the microchipping of pet cats in England will become mandatory.\n\nI am considering the compulsory microchipping of pet cats in the context of all pressing needs for animal welfare reform in Northern Ireland. However, ultimately, my capacity to enact legislation will be constrained by the resources available to me and the time left in this shortened mandate.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Code of Practice for the Welfare of Cats already recommends that owners ensure their cats are identified, using either a collar or microchip. However, I am aware that from 10 June 2024, the microchipping of pet cats in England will become mandatory.
I am considering the compulsory microchipping of pet cats in the context of all pressing needs for animal welfare reform in Northern Ireland. However, ultimately, my capacity to enact legislation will be constrained by the resources available to me and the time left in this shortened mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209591%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396397","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396397"}},{"id":"396396","reference":"AQW 9590/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-04-08","answerBy":"2024-04-23","answered":"2024-04-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an explanation of the delay of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency in responding to planning applications as a statutory consultee.","answerText":"The primary reason for NIEA delay in responding to planning applications is that the number of complex planning consultations receipted exceeds the capacity that staff in post have to respond. Contributing factors include the number of re-consultations received / the quality of information submitted, and the level of non-statutory work associated with the delivery of our planning role and responsibilities.","answerHtml":"The primary reason for NIEA delay in responding to planning applications is that the number of complex planning consultations receipted exceeds the capacity that staff in post have to respond. Contributing factors include the number of re-consultations received / the quality of information submitted, and the level of non-statutory work associated with the delivery of our planning role and responsibilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209590%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=396396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=396396"}},{"id":"395369","reference":"AQW 9471/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of funding granted to sports clubs in each of the last five years, broken down by sport.","answerText":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.\n\nI can also advise that all funding information is available on the Government Funding Database. This website is publicly accessible and holds records of applications and funding to voluntary and community sector organisations including funding disbursed to the sports sector. I have included the link for future convenience - https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of information to be provided, I have arranged for the information requested to be placed in the Assembly Library.
I can also advise that all funding information is available on the Government Funding Database. This website is publicly accessible and holds records of applications and funding to voluntary and community sector organisations including funding disbursed to the sports sector. I have included the link for future convenience - https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395369"}},{"id":"395368","reference":"AQW 9470/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the future provision of general surgery at Causeway Hospital; and (ii) to detail the reasons behind the exploration into the potential of ending general surgery there.","answerText":"In March 2024, the Northern Trust published “Causeway Hospital A Strategic Vision.” The vision outlines the Trust’s ambition to develop and enhance the Causeway site, focussing on providing a 24/7 Emergency Department and acute inpatients services, same day emergency care, elective care and cancer services, and reshaping mental health provision to meet the needs of the local population. It also highlights how Causeway Hospital is perfectly positioned to become an elective and diagnostic hub for the entire North West area.\n\nOn Thursday 28 March 2024, I visited the newly established surgical ambulatory service. This service which is opened each week - Monday to Friday - 9am to 5pm, assesses, diagnoses and treats surgical patients referred from the ED Department and it is planned that the service will be open to GP referrals in the near future. This is a great new service and it means that emergency and urgent surgical patients are streamlined to treatment in a safe and effective way.\n\nI appreciate the work of our doctors, nurses and healthcare staff and acknowledge the positive impact that this model for the emergency surgery service will bring for patients presenting with surgical conditions such as; Diverticulitis were no abscess is present, mild cholecystitis, perianal abscess, pilonidal abscess, early discharge patients’ post-surgery who can be safely managed via the surgical “hot” clinic for further treatment and review.\n\nThe need to change in how we deliver surgical services in Northern Ireland is necessary as we develop service models that can meet/best mitigate the essential standards set within the Review of General Surgery in Northern Ireland.\n\nI appreciate the changes and recent developments in Northern Trust, to improve services for the local population, particularly the new ambulatory services and pathways which should improve outcomes and make services more accessible and am delighted to support the need for this new model for emergency ambulatory surgery in the Causeway area and the benefits it brings to the population of the area.","answerHtml":"In March 2024, the Northern Trust published “Causeway Hospital A Strategic Vision.” The vision outlines the Trust’s ambition to develop and enhance the Causeway site, focussing on providing a 24/7 Emergency Department and acute inpatients services, same day emergency care, elective care and cancer services, and reshaping mental health provision to meet the needs of the local population. It also highlights how Causeway Hospital is perfectly positioned to become an elective and diagnostic hub for the entire North West area.
On Thursday 28 March 2024, I visited the newly established surgical ambulatory service. This service which is opened each week - Monday to Friday - 9am to 5pm, assesses, diagnoses and treats surgical patients referred from the ED Department and it is planned that the service will be open to GP referrals in the near future. This is a great new service and it means that emergency and urgent surgical patients are streamlined to treatment in a safe and effective way.
I appreciate the work of our doctors, nurses and healthcare staff and acknowledge the positive impact that this model for the emergency surgery service will bring for patients presenting with surgical conditions such as; Diverticulitis were no abscess is present, mild cholecystitis, perianal abscess, pilonidal abscess, early discharge patients’ post-surgery who can be safely managed via the surgical “hot” clinic for further treatment and review.
The need to change in how we deliver surgical services in Northern Ireland is necessary as we develop service models that can meet/best mitigate the essential standards set within the Review of General Surgery in Northern Ireland.
I appreciate the changes and recent developments in Northern Trust, to improve services for the local population, particularly the new ambulatory services and pathways which should improve outcomes and make services more accessible and am delighted to support the need for this new model for emergency ambulatory surgery in the Causeway area and the benefits it brings to the population of the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209470%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395368"}},{"id":"395367","reference":"AQW 9469/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans he has to reverse the decision to halt work on proposals for a bypass at Ballykelly.","answerText":"My Department is in the process of developing a new Transport Strategy that will help to shape the vision and strategic priorities for transport through to 2035. Once this is published, it will help to inform the Transport Plan for the Regional Strategic Transport Network, which includes the A2 at Ballykelly.","answerHtml":"My Department is in the process of developing a new Transport Strategy that will help to shape the vision and strategic priorities for transport through to 2035. Once this is published, it will help to inform the Transport Plan for the Regional Strategic Transport Network, which includes the A2 at Ballykelly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209469%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395367"}},{"id":"395366","reference":"AQW 9468/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":"2024-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any plans he has to reinitiate counselling services for primary schools.","answerText":"The Healthy Happy Minds Pilot concluded on 31 March 2023. An evaluation of the pilot has been carried out and is now published on the Department’s website. I will take the time to assess the findings of the evaluation along with wider research / feedback from stakeholders in developing the Department’s longer-term approach.","answerHtml":"The Healthy Happy Minds Pilot concluded on 31 March 2023. An evaluation of the pilot has been carried out and is now published on the Department’s website. I will take the time to assess the findings of the evaluation along with wider research / feedback from stakeholders in developing the Department’s longer-term approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209468%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395366"}},{"id":"395365","reference":"AQW 9467/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-22","answerBy":"2024-04-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, since its inception, to detail (i) the number of calls made to the Phone First number; (ii) a breakdown of the various directions given following these calls, broken down by constituency; and (ii) his assessment of the impact this has had on emergency departments.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209467%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395365","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395365"}},{"id":"395125","reference":"AQW 9354/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his Department’s policy for households that are eligible for the Housing Executive's Disabled Facilities Grant, but do not receive the required funding to complete the work to enable the individual to receive the support or equipment to stay in their own home.","answerText":"Since the Housing Executive (NIHE) has responsibility for administering the Disabled Facilities Grant, my Department does not have a specific policy in this area.\n\nIn practice, the needs of each individual are assessed by the relevant HSC Trust’s Occupational Therapy Service, with recommendations on the nature of the adaptation work required then shared with the NIHE for processing. Works are normally subject to a statutory maximum level of grant aid (currently £70k), and only in very exceptional circumstances will NIHE funding exceed that level.\n\nCases in which the required works exceed the maximum funding are referred for consideration by a Regional Interagency Escalation panel, which will take account of the type and nature of the adaptation work, the level of funding required, and the individuals means to contribute. These panels are coordinated by my Department’s Housing and Health Lead, who is jointly employed by the Department of Health and Housing Executive.\n\nUltimately, the statutory responsibility and decision to provide any additional funding will rest with the HSC Trusts as the Department have no identified resources to support in these cases.\n\nThis approach has been endorsed by the Interdepartmental (Department of Health/Department for Communities) Housing and Health Adaptations Programme Board, and my Department does intend issuing guidance to HSC Trusts to reinforce the position to ensure a consistent and equitable approach.","answerHtml":"Since the Housing Executive (NIHE) has responsibility for administering the Disabled Facilities Grant, my Department does not have a specific policy in this area.
In practice, the needs of each individual are assessed by the relevant HSC Trust’s Occupational Therapy Service, with recommendations on the nature of the adaptation work required then shared with the NIHE for processing. Works are normally subject to a statutory maximum level of grant aid (currently £70k), and only in very exceptional circumstances will NIHE funding exceed that level.
Cases in which the required works exceed the maximum funding are referred for consideration by a Regional Interagency Escalation panel, which will take account of the type and nature of the adaptation work, the level of funding required, and the individuals means to contribute. These panels are coordinated by my Department’s Housing and Health Lead, who is jointly employed by the Department of Health and Housing Executive.
Ultimately, the statutory responsibility and decision to provide any additional funding will rest with the HSC Trusts as the Department have no identified resources to support in these cases.
This approach has been endorsed by the Interdepartmental (Department of Health/Department for Communities) Housing and Health Adaptations Programme Board, and my Department does intend issuing guidance to HSC Trusts to reinforce the position to ensure a consistent and equitable approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209354%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395125"}},{"id":"395124","reference":"AQW 9353/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether the testing of water in the lower Bann is carried out on a regular basis to ensure harmful chemicals and toxins are not present in the waterways.","answerText":"My Department undertakes monitoring across four sites of the Lower Bann under The Water Environment (Water Framework) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017. Monthly or quarterly monitoring is undertaken for 29 chemicals and trace metals. During each six-year River Basin Plan cycle, additional monitoring is undertaken each month for a twelve month period. This additional testing looks for a wide range of pollutants that are considered potential threats to water quality. During 2023 ad-hoc monitoring was also undertaken to verify the presence of Blue/Green algae.","answerHtml":"My Department undertakes monitoring across four sites of the Lower Bann under The Water Environment (Water Framework) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2017. Monthly or quarterly monitoring is undertaken for 29 chemicals and trace metals. During each six-year River Basin Plan cycle, additional monitoring is undertaken each month for a twelve month period. This additional testing looks for a wide range of pollutants that are considered potential threats to water quality. During 2023 ad-hoc monitoring was also undertaken to verify the presence of Blue/Green algae.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209353%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395124","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395124"}},{"id":"395123","reference":"AQW 9352/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-04-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) whether there is an upper limit for the Housing Executive's Disabled Facilities Grant; and (ii) the process when the cost of the work rises after the grant is allocated, but the family or individual cannot afford to make up the deficit.","answerText":"(i) Article 2 of The Housing Renovation etc. Grants (Grant Limit) Order (Northern Ireland) 2003 informs the Housing Executive of the maximum grant-aid amount which it can approve for eligible works. As of 1 February 2023, the maximum amount is £35,000.\n\nThere is provision under Article 64(3)(b) of the Housing (NI) Order 2003 for the Housing Executive, under certain circumstances, to provide additional grant aid for mandatory adaptation works. The additional amount has been agreed at £35,000 so the total payable for eligible works is up to a maximum of £70,000.\n\n(ii) The Housing Executive has advised that the grant award is calculated using a Schedule of Rates for construction works informed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Building Cost Information Service Cost Indices (RICS BCIS Indices). These rates are reviewed and, if necessary, individual rates adjusted should market forces dictate.\n\nDuring the normal life-time of a case the Housing Executive may complete multiple recalculations for a number of different reasons. This includes, and is not limited to, for example;\n\nan applicant’s OT recommendation may change and have additional eligible works added;\n\nthere has been an increase in the Schedule of Rates - where work has not started the applicant’s case may benefit from the uplift in rates; or\n\nunforeseen works emerge after the work has started on site.\n\nThe Housing Executive will review each case as need arises and at the end will complete a recalculation by way of a final re-cost to ensure amounts of all eligible works are accounted for.\n\nWhere appropriate the Housing Executive may sign-post an applicant to potential bursary and other grant schemes which may consider contributing towards the works being completed if they are not fully met by the grant award.","answerHtml":"(i) Article 2 of The Housing Renovation etc. Grants (Grant Limit) Order (Northern Ireland) 2003 informs the Housing Executive of the maximum grant-aid amount which it can approve for eligible works. As of 1 February 2023, the maximum amount is £35,000.
There is provision under Article 64(3)(b) of the Housing (NI) Order 2003 for the Housing Executive, under certain circumstances, to provide additional grant aid for mandatory adaptation works. The additional amount has been agreed at £35,000 so the total payable for eligible works is up to a maximum of £70,000.
(ii) The Housing Executive has advised that the grant award is calculated using a Schedule of Rates for construction works informed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors Building Cost Information Service Cost Indices (RICS BCIS Indices). These rates are reviewed and, if necessary, individual rates adjusted should market forces dictate.
During the normal life-time of a case the Housing Executive may complete multiple recalculations for a number of different reasons. This includes, and is not limited to, for example;
an applicant’s OT recommendation may change and have additional eligible works added;
there has been an increase in the Schedule of Rates - where work has not started the applicant’s case may benefit from the uplift in rates; or
unforeseen works emerge after the work has started on site.
The Housing Executive will review each case as need arises and at the end will complete a recalculation by way of a final re-cost to ensure amounts of all eligible works are accounted for.
Where appropriate the Housing Executive may sign-post an applicant to potential bursary and other grant schemes which may consider contributing towards the works being completed if they are not fully met by the grant award.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209352%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395123"}},{"id":"395122","reference":"AQW 9351/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average turnaround time from a Housing Executive tenant vacating a property to the new tenant moving in, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The table below shows the figures for the average number of days for relets, for the last five financial years, broken down by area office. It should be noted that the Housing Executive do not report these figures by Parliamentary Constituency.\n\nArea Office\t2022/23\t2021/22\t2020/21\t2019/20\t2018/19\nLisburn\t74\t52\t46\t19\t18\nNorth Belfast\t46\t55\t59\t18\t21\nSouth & East Belfast\t36\t22\t44\t18\t20\nWest Belfast\t50\t26\t26\t17\t20\nBelfast Region\t55\t40\t44\t18\t20\nMid Ulster\t14\t22\t15\t16\t20\nArds & North Down\t21\t22\t26\t15\t17\nSouth\t26\t36\t27\t18\t19\nSouth Down\t14\t15\t32\t12\t17\nSouth West\t8\t18\t15\t13\t11\nSouth Region\t20\t25\t26\t15\t17\nCauseway\t16\t15\t11\t11\t12\nMid & East Antrim\t44\t39\t49\t17\t23\nSouth Antrim\t47\t73\t61\t19\t20\nWest\t15\t20\t21\t13\t18\nNorth Region\t33\t41\t37\t15\t18\n**Northern Ireland\t35\t36\t36\t16\t18\n\n** The Northern Ireland total has been calculated by dividing the total number of days that relet properties were vacant, by the total number of relets.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The table below shows the figures for the average number of days for relets, for the last five financial years, broken down by area office. It should be noted that the Housing Executive do not report these figures by Parliamentary Constituency.
| Area Office | 2022/23 | 2021/22 | 2020/21 | 2019/20 | 2018/19 |
| Lisburn | 74 | 52 | 46 | 19 | 18 |
| North Belfast | 46 | 55 | 59 | 18 | 21 |
| South & East Belfast | 36 | 22 | 44 | 18 | 20 |
| West Belfast | 50 | 26 | 26 | 17 | 20 |
| Belfast Region | 55 | 40 | 44 | 18 | 20 |
| Mid Ulster | 14 | 22 | 15 | 16 | 20 |
| Ards & North Down | 21 | 22 | 26 | 15 | 17 |
| South | 26 | 36 | 27 | 18 | 19 |
| South Down | 14 | 15 | 32 | 12 | 17 |
| South West | 8 | 18 | 15 | 13 | 11 |
| South Region | 20 | 25 | 26 | 15 | 17 |
| Causeway | 16 | 15 | 11 | 11 | 12 |
| Mid & East Antrim | 44 | 39 | 49 | 17 | 23 |
| South Antrim | 47 | 73 | 61 | 19 | 20 |
| West | 15 | 20 | 21 | 13 | 18 |
| North Region | 33 | 41 | 37 | 15 | 18 |
| **Northern Ireland | 35 | 36 | 36 | 16 | 18 |
** The Northern Ireland total has been calculated by dividing the total number of days that relet properties were vacant, by the total number of relets.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209351%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395122"}},{"id":"395121","reference":"AQW 9350/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-21","answerBy":"2024-04-09","answered":"2024-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the schemes his Department has been involved in with charities in East Londonderry that help dementia sufferers continue to socialise and mix with others outside their home.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Supporting People programme grant funds Floating Support provision that can help dementia sufferers continue to socialise and mix with others outside their home.\n\n15 units of Floating Support in the Coleraine area are provided by a charity where the primary client group is ‘Older People with Mental Health Problems / Dementia’. This service is provided by Praxis Care – Coleraine Dementia SPFS 45.\n\nThe following Floating Support services provided by charities were the primary client group ‘Older People’, can also support people affected by dementia.\n\nRadius Housing Association provide 560 units of floating support via Floating Support Larne, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey in the Northern Health & Social Care Trust area.\n\nThe Cedar Foundation provide 40 units of floating support via Elderly Floating Support Scheme, Moyle in the Moyle and Coleraine area.\n\nFirst Housing Aid & Support Services provide 60 units of Floating support via Floating Support Scheme for Older People Limavady/Derry/Strabane, in the Limavady/Derry/Strabane area.\n\nPraxis Care provide 77 units of Floating support via Foyle SPFS 43 in the Londonderry and Strabane area.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Supporting People programme grant funds Floating Support provision that can help dementia sufferers continue to socialise and mix with others outside their home.
15 units of Floating Support in the Coleraine area are provided by a charity where the primary client group is ‘Older People with Mental Health Problems / Dementia’. This service is provided by Praxis Care – Coleraine Dementia SPFS 45.
The following Floating Support services provided by charities were the primary client group ‘Older People’, can also support people affected by dementia.
Radius Housing Association provide 560 units of floating support via Floating Support Larne, Carrickfergus and Newtownabbey in the Northern Health & Social Care Trust area.
The Cedar Foundation provide 40 units of floating support via Elderly Floating Support Scheme, Moyle in the Moyle and Coleraine area.
First Housing Aid & Support Services provide 60 units of Floating support via Floating Support Scheme for Older People Limavady/Derry/Strabane, in the Limavady/Derry/Strabane area.
Praxis Care provide 77 units of Floating support via Foyle SPFS 43 in the Londonderry and Strabane area.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Northern Ireland Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with the ALB will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209350%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=395121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=395121"}},{"id":"394880","reference":"AQW 9251/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to (i) make PSA tests routine as part of blood tests being taken by men over 50-years-old; and (ii) lower the age at which these tests are carried out, particularly for those with a family history of early-onset prostate cancer.","answerText":"There are no plans to make PSA test routine as part of blood tests taken by men over 50 years old. The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific committee which advises the UK Health Ministers, does not currently recommend screening for prostate cancer.\n\nThis is because the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is not accurate enough to detect prostate cancer that needs treatment. It can falsely identify men who do not have prostate cancer. It can also miss some cancers. This means that many men might have to undergo unnecessary and often unpleasant tests and/or unnecessary treatment.\n\nIt is currently unclear if other tests such as an MRI scan, with or without PSA, are accurate enough. Research is looking at whether a method for predicting prostate cancer risk using a combination of a blood test and other information about a man could be more accurate. But more studies are necessary to confirm the early results. My department will continue to be guided by the UK NSC’s recommendations on proposals for screening programmes.\n\nAnyone with symptoms which may be related to the prostate gland should contact their GP.","answerHtml":"There are no plans to make PSA test routine as part of blood tests taken by men over 50 years old. The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC), an independent scientific committee which advises the UK Health Ministers, does not currently recommend screening for prostate cancer.
This is because the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) test is not accurate enough to detect prostate cancer that needs treatment. It can falsely identify men who do not have prostate cancer. It can also miss some cancers. This means that many men might have to undergo unnecessary and often unpleasant tests and/or unnecessary treatment.
It is currently unclear if other tests such as an MRI scan, with or without PSA, are accurate enough. Research is looking at whether a method for predicting prostate cancer risk using a combination of a blood test and other information about a man could be more accurate. But more studies are necessary to confirm the early results. My department will continue to be guided by the UK NSC’s recommendations on proposals for screening programmes.
Anyone with symptoms which may be related to the prostate gland should contact their GP.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209251%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394880"}},{"id":"394879","reference":"AQW 9250/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-05-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the amount of funding provided to each amateur boxing club in East Londonderry in each of the last five years; (ii) how clubs apply for funding; and (iii) the amount of funding available for small community sports clubs.","answerText":"As this issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive. As the information received is extensive, I have arranged for this to be provided in the Assembly library.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact Sport NI directly. Making direct contact with Sport NI will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.\n\nI can also advise that all funding information is available on the Government Funding Database. This website is publicly accessible and holds records of applications and funding to voluntary and community sector organisations including funding disbursed to the sports sector. I have included the link for future convenience - https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk","answerHtml":"As this issue is an operational matter for Sport NI, I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive. As the information received is extensive, I have arranged for this to be provided in the Assembly library.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact Sport NI directly. Making direct contact with Sport NI will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
I can also advise that all funding information is available on the Government Funding Database. This website is publicly accessible and holds records of applications and funding to voluntary and community sector organisations including funding disbursed to the sports sector. I have included the link for future convenience - https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209250%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394879"}},{"id":"394878","reference":"AQW 9249/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the powers his Department has to legally compel (a) private; and (b) public owners of derelict buildings to bring them up to a habitable standard; and (ii) the number of times this has been done in the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"My Department does not have specific powers to compel property owners to bring derelict buildings up to habitable standards, however Councils have authority to deal with privately owned derelict buildings that are insecure and open to public access.\n\nThe powers which local Councils have to address dilapidated buildings fall under the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/dilapidation\n\nEnvironmental Health Officers have powers to enforce the statutory minimum fitness standard for housing, as set out in Article 46 of the Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1981.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have specific powers to compel property owners to bring derelict buildings up to habitable standards, however Councils have authority to deal with privately owned derelict buildings that are insecure and open to public access.
The powers which local Councils have to address dilapidated buildings fall under the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs. https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/dilapidation
Environmental Health Officers have powers to enforce the statutory minimum fitness standard for housing, as set out in Article 46 of the Housing (Northern Ireland) Order 1981.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209249%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394878","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394878"}},{"id":"394877","reference":"AQW 9248/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the steps he has taken since assuming office to roll-out the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"I recognise and share the deep frustration of many that this programme has not been delivered and I am committed to taking this forward as a matter of priority.\n\nSince taking office, I have:\n\nvisited a wide range of football clubs to hear about their needs directly;\n\nmet the Irish FA and Northern Ireland Football League to hear their feedback on the sector’s needs;\n\nreceived a Strategic Outline Case setting out high level proposals for my consideration and approval;\n\nheld discussions with the Irish FA regarding the development of a National Training Centre;\n\nasked for options to invest at grassroots level in parallel to undertaking the research and evidence gathering needed to underpin a comprehensive package of support; and\n\nhosted a visit by the UK Sports Minister to Belfast on 4 March, and I have also written to him with background and my Department’s assessment of need for investment to modernise local football facilities. Pointing out that the current NI Executive ringfenced budget of £36.2m falls far short of the required needs.\n\nIt is important to note that ambitious, large scale capital infrastructure investments such as this take time to deliver. My officials are working closely with stakeholders including clubs themselves to ensure robust proposals are developed. Investments must address clearly identified needs and create future proofed facilities.","answerHtml":"I recognise and share the deep frustration of many that this programme has not been delivered and I am committed to taking this forward as a matter of priority.
Since taking office, I have:
visited a wide range of football clubs to hear about their needs directly;
met the Irish FA and Northern Ireland Football League to hear their feedback on the sector’s needs;
received a Strategic Outline Case setting out high level proposals for my consideration and approval;
held discussions with the Irish FA regarding the development of a National Training Centre;
asked for options to invest at grassroots level in parallel to undertaking the research and evidence gathering needed to underpin a comprehensive package of support; and
hosted a visit by the UK Sports Minister to Belfast on 4 March, and I have also written to him with background and my Department’s assessment of need for investment to modernise local football facilities. Pointing out that the current NI Executive ringfenced budget of £36.2m falls far short of the required needs.
It is important to note that ambitious, large scale capital infrastructure investments such as this take time to deliver. My officials are working closely with stakeholders including clubs themselves to ensure robust proposals are developed. Investments must address clearly identified needs and create future proofed facilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209248%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394877","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394877"}},{"id":"394876","reference":"AQW 9247/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-20","answerBy":"2024-04-08","answered":"2024-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the amount paid out in claims to drivers whose vehicles have been damaged by potholes in each of the last five years, broken down by (i) motorways; (ii) A roads; and (iii) B roads.","answerText":"The management information my Department holds in relation to roads related public liability claims can be found online or via the at:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/road-asset-maintenance-directorate-management-information-roads-related-claims-period-20182019\n\nTable 7.1 in the above link provides details of vehicle damage compensation paid during the last five full financial. Please note, however, the NICS accounting system does not record the road class for incidents that lead to compensation payments. Therefore, it is not possible to disaggregate the amount of compensation paid out by road class as requested. I would also advise the member and other members using the above link to be cognisant of the caveats noted in respect to the information provided on roads related public liability claims.\n\nThe link to this information is also available via the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"The management information my Department holds in relation to roads related public liability claims can be found online or via the at:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/road-asset-maintenance-directorate-management-information-roads-related-claims-period-20182019
Table 7.1 in the above link provides details of vehicle damage compensation paid during the last five full financial. Please note, however, the NICS accounting system does not record the road class for incidents that lead to compensation payments. Therefore, it is not possible to disaggregate the amount of compensation paid out by road class as requested. I would also advise the member and other members using the above link to be cognisant of the caveats noted in respect to the information provided on roads related public liability claims.
The link to this information is also available via the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209247%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394876","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394876"}},{"id":"394696","reference":"AQW 9148/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many schools have (i) transformed to integrated status; and (ii) expressed an interest transforming to integrated status, in the last year.","answerText":"Last year there was one school which transformed to integrated status. Development Proposal (DP) 690 – which proposed that “Sion Mills Primary School will transform to Controlled Integrated Status, with effect from 1 September 2023, or as soon as possible thereafter” was approved on 11 September 2023 and officially transformed to integrated status on the 1 January 2024.\n\nThe table below details a number of development proposals currently with the Department for transformation to integrated status.\n\nDP number\tSchool name\tDENI Ref\tManagement type\tReason for DP\tPhase\n704\tMagherafelt NS\t3116177\tControlled\tTransformation\tNursery\n718\tLurgan Model PS\t5010992\tControlled\tTransformation\tPrimary\n716\tSt Eugene's PS, Victoria Bridge\t2032682\tCatholic Maintained\tTransformation\tPrimary\n717\tSt Eugene's PS, Tircur\t2032688\tCatholic Maintained\tTransformation\tPrimary\n719\tCairnshill PS\t4013024\tControlled\tTransformation\tPrimary\n727\tBangor Academy & Sixth Form College\t4210296\tControlled\tTransformation\tPost Primary\n728\tRathmore PS\t4016067\tControlled\tTransformation\tPrimary\n\nFigures from the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) show that a further 25 schools that have expressed an interest to transform to integrated status within the last year.","answerHtml":"Last year there was one school which transformed to integrated status. Development Proposal (DP) 690 – which proposed that “Sion Mills Primary School will transform to Controlled Integrated Status, with effect from 1 September 2023, or as soon as possible thereafter” was approved on 11 September 2023 and officially transformed to integrated status on the 1 January 2024.
The table below details a number of development proposals currently with the Department for transformation to integrated status.
| DP number | School name | DENI Ref | Management type | Reason for DP | Phase |
| 704 | Magherafelt NS | 3116177 | Controlled | Transformation | Nursery |
| 718 | Lurgan Model PS | 5010992 | Controlled | Transformation | Primary |
| 716 | St Eugene's PS, Victoria Bridge | 2032682 | Catholic Maintained | Transformation | Primary |
| 717 | St Eugene's PS, Tircur | 2032688 | Catholic Maintained | Transformation | Primary |
| 719 | Cairnshill PS | 4013024 | Controlled | Transformation | Primary |
| 727 | Bangor Academy & Sixth Form College | 4210296 | Controlled | Transformation | Post Primary |
| 728 | Rathmore PS | 4016067 | Controlled | Transformation | Primary |
Figures from the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) show that a further 25 schools that have expressed an interest to transform to integrated status within the last year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209148%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394696"}},{"id":"394695","reference":"AQW 9147/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-03-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the spread and impact of the invasive zebra mussel species; and (ii) the areas in East Londonderry that have been affected by this.","answerText":"(i) Zebra mussels were first reported in Northern Ireland in 1996 from Lower Lough Erne with records from Upper Lough Erne the following year. The first confirmed record in Lough Neagh was at Kinnego Marina in 2005 and it has now spread to the Lower Bann and tributaries. It thrives in eutrophic waters but does not survive in acidic water bodies.\n\nZebra mussels have been implicated in a range of impacts including changes in nutrient cycles, reduced plankton, increased water clarity, increased plant growth around lake margins, population declines of native mussels, and changes in fish populations. Not all of these interactions are fully understood. In addition, they can block water intake pipes and boat engines, and foul the hulls of boats.\n\n(ii) Within the East Londonderry constituency, there are reports of zebra mussels being present in the Lower Bann at The Cutts and Kilrea Bridge. There are further records from the Articlave River at Ardina Bridge and the Bannbrook at Quilley Road Bridge.","answerHtml":"(i) Zebra mussels were first reported in Northern Ireland in 1996 from Lower Lough Erne with records from Upper Lough Erne the following year. The first confirmed record in Lough Neagh was at Kinnego Marina in 2005 and it has now spread to the Lower Bann and tributaries. It thrives in eutrophic waters but does not survive in acidic water bodies.
Zebra mussels have been implicated in a range of impacts including changes in nutrient cycles, reduced plankton, increased water clarity, increased plant growth around lake margins, population declines of native mussels, and changes in fish populations. Not all of these interactions are fully understood. In addition, they can block water intake pipes and boat engines, and foul the hulls of boats.
(ii) Within the East Londonderry constituency, there are reports of zebra mussels being present in the Lower Bann at The Cutts and Kilrea Bridge. There are further records from the Articlave River at Ardina Bridge and the Bannbrook at Quilley Road Bridge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209147%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394695"}},{"id":"394694","reference":"AQW 9146/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to increase (i) the use of; and (ii) funding for, Acute Care at Home services.","answerText":"In March 2022, my Department published the Review of Urgent and\n\nEmergency Care. Under the recommendations of the review, a Task and Finish group was established, through an Intermediate care sub-group to examine the current challenges regarding hospital at home services, particularly how to ensure consistency of approach and outcomes of a high performing model. The outworkings of this group are at the later stages and a final report will be submitted to the Chief Nursing Office, as lead sponsor.","answerHtml":"In March 2022, my Department published the Review of Urgent and
Emergency Care. Under the recommendations of the review, a Task and Finish group was established, through an Intermediate care sub-group to examine the current challenges regarding hospital at home services, particularly how to ensure consistency of approach and outcomes of a high performing model. The outworkings of this group are at the later stages and a final report will be submitted to the Chief Nursing Office, as lead sponsor.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209146%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394694"}},{"id":"394693","reference":"AQW 9145/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the impact of a ban on amalgam fillings in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail how he can prevent this ban from being implemented here.","answerText":"I am very concerned about the practical implications of the revised law. I think they will be significant and persisting both in terms of cost and capacity.\n\nIn 2022/23 dentists placed 201k amalgam fillings. Approximately 31% of Health Service fillings are amalgam and this number rises to 64% for posterior teeth, where the larger fillings are needed.\n\nIn particular, I am concerned about the impact on capacity, which is already struggling as a result of the pandemic, as non-amalgam fillings can take two or three times longer to place, depending on a number of factors.\n\nWe have estimated the cost as being £3.6m to the Department per annum and £2.75m in total for patients. However, increases in the price of amalgam and non-amalgam are anticipated, so the overall costs could be more.\n\nThe law will come into effect in Northern Ireland in January 2025 without the successful deployment of the Stormont Brake. The Democratic Scrutiny Committee have an important role in assessing the significance of any impact of the changes in the law. My Department has briefed them of our concerns, will be providing further evidence to them in April 2024 and will continue to support them as much as possible.","answerHtml":"I am very concerned about the practical implications of the revised law. I think they will be significant and persisting both in terms of cost and capacity.
In 2022/23 dentists placed 201k amalgam fillings. Approximately 31% of Health Service fillings are amalgam and this number rises to 64% for posterior teeth, where the larger fillings are needed.
In particular, I am concerned about the impact on capacity, which is already struggling as a result of the pandemic, as non-amalgam fillings can take two or three times longer to place, depending on a number of factors.
We have estimated the cost as being £3.6m to the Department per annum and £2.75m in total for patients. However, increases in the price of amalgam and non-amalgam are anticipated, so the overall costs could be more.
The law will come into effect in Northern Ireland in January 2025 without the successful deployment of the Stormont Brake. The Democratic Scrutiny Committee have an important role in assessing the significance of any impact of the changes in the law. My Department has briefed them of our concerns, will be providing further evidence to them in April 2024 and will continue to support them as much as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209145%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394693","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394693"}},{"id":"394692","reference":"AQW 9144/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-19","answerBy":"2024-04-05","answered":"2024-04-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for his assessment of whether the growth of electric vehicle charge points is keeping pace with the growth in the number of electric vehicles.","answerText":"The North has currently around 1.27 million vehicles registered with circa 50,000 new registrations per year. Of these, there are currently in the region of 20,450 EVs registered. The proportion of new cars registered here using alternative fuels has risen to a high of 41% of all new cars sold in quarter one of 2023/24. Whilst most charging of electric vehicles is carried out at home charge points, there are now 549 publicly available charge points available to EV drivers. This represents a 63% increase in publicly available charge points since August 2021. There have been 80 new chargers installed in the past two months alone, which is a rise of 17%.\n\nThe provision and operation of those publicly accessible EV Charge Points is a commercially led operation in the North. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of any commercially operated charge point rests solely with the Charge Point Operator. Current providers operating here include BP Pulse, Easygo, ESB, Maxol and Weev. The market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure.\n\nIn this commercially led market, my officials continue to provide advice to Charge Point Operators on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.\n\nLocal Councils have been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles ‘On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme’, which my Department has match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council made an application under this scheme in 2021-22, on behalf of nine Local Councils and are currently preparing a tender for charge point operators to provide 127 charge points across those Council areas.","answerHtml":"The North has currently around 1.27 million vehicles registered with circa 50,000 new registrations per year. Of these, there are currently in the region of 20,450 EVs registered. The proportion of new cars registered here using alternative fuels has risen to a high of 41% of all new cars sold in quarter one of 2023/24. Whilst most charging of electric vehicles is carried out at home charge points, there are now 549 publicly available charge points available to EV drivers. This represents a 63% increase in publicly available charge points since August 2021. There have been 80 new chargers installed in the past two months alone, which is a rise of 17%.
The provision and operation of those publicly accessible EV Charge Points is a commercially led operation in the North. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of any commercially operated charge point rests solely with the Charge Point Operator. Current providers operating here include BP Pulse, Easygo, ESB, Maxol and Weev. The market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure.
In this commercially led market, my officials continue to provide advice to Charge Point Operators on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.
Local Councils have been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emissions Vehicles ‘On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme’, which my Department has match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council made an application under this scheme in 2021-22, on behalf of nine Local Councils and are currently preparing a tender for charge point operators to provide 127 charge points across those Council areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209144%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394692","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394692"}},{"id":"394436","reference":"AQW 9047/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) how she will protect owners of new buildings which are subsequently found to be unsafe or defective; and (ii) any buildings, other than Victoria Square, Belfast, that are being explored to determine whether they are unsafe.","answerText":"I have instructed my officials to develop legislation to offer residents in Northern Ireland the same protection as currently offered in other UK jurisdictions. My Department has been made aware of one other building that is currently undergoing continued investigations as recently highlighted in local media, namely Coopers Court. I am unaware of any other buildings currently under review for structural safety concerns.\n\nDfC’s Residential Building Safety Division are currently working to implement the recommendations of the Department of Finance Expert Panel’s report into the safety of high-rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I have instructed my officials to develop legislation to offer residents in Northern Ireland the same protection as currently offered in other UK jurisdictions. My Department has been made aware of one other building that is currently undergoing continued investigations as recently highlighted in local media, namely Coopers Court. I am unaware of any other buildings currently under review for structural safety concerns.
DfC’s Residential Building Safety Division are currently working to implement the recommendations of the Department of Finance Expert Panel’s report into the safety of high-rise residential buildings in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209047%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394436","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394436"}},{"id":"394435","reference":"AQW 9046/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the Consumer Council report that shows a quarter of households are left with less than £32 per week after all essentials are paid for; and (ii) to detail any policies he is aiming to develop to support those in financial need.","answerText":"The Consumer Council’s report underscores the need for long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for our communities right across Northern Ireland.\n\nAddressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me. I look forward to working with my Executive colleagues to develop a sustainable, deliverable and affordable Anti-Poverty Strategy which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives.\n\nMy officials have developed draft debt respite policy proposals in preparation for a public consultation, which I expect to consider in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"The Consumer Council’s report underscores the need for long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for our communities right across Northern Ireland.
Addressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me. I look forward to working with my Executive colleagues to develop a sustainable, deliverable and affordable Anti-Poverty Strategy which prioritises the issues that make a tangible difference to people’s lives.
My officials have developed draft debt respite policy proposals in preparation for a public consultation, which I expect to consider in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209046%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394435","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394435"}},{"id":"394434","reference":"AQW 9045/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail progress that has been made regarding the list of animal medicines at risk of being discontinued in Northern Ireland because of post-Brexit arrangements.","answerText":"There is currently a grace period for veterinary medicines until 31 December 2025. This grace period was granted on condition that the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), an agency of Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and United Kingdom (UK) competent authority, comply with measures in a joint European Union (EU)/UK Action plan.\n\nThis action plan is a matter for the UK Government and requires the UK to provide details of veterinary medicines at risk in Northern Ireland (NI) including those in danger of being discontinued as well as information on measures which could be undertaken to ensure the continued availability of veterinary medicines to NI. VMD submitted documents to the EU Commission to meet Milestone 3 of the EU/UK Action plan on 31 January 2024 and are currently working on Milestone 4.","answerHtml":"There is currently a grace period for veterinary medicines until 31 December 2025. This grace period was granted on condition that the Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD), an agency of Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and United Kingdom (UK) competent authority, comply with measures in a joint European Union (EU)/UK Action plan.
This action plan is a matter for the UK Government and requires the UK to provide details of veterinary medicines at risk in Northern Ireland (NI) including those in danger of being discontinued as well as information on measures which could be undertaken to ensure the continued availability of veterinary medicines to NI. VMD submitted documents to the EU Commission to meet Milestone 3 of the EU/UK Action plan on 31 January 2024 and are currently working on Milestone 4.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209045%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394434"}},{"id":"394433","reference":"AQW 9044/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-04-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the repercussions of the NHS England ban on puberty blockers for those in Northern Ireland already on these drugs; and (ii) how he will respond to this ban.","answerText":"(i) Currently the decision of NHS England to ban puberty blockers has had no repercussions for those in Northern Ireland. Puberty blockers are not banned in Northern Ireland. They are available on NHS prescription for those under 18s, who were accepted and remain in the Belfast Trust's Knowing Our Identity Service endocrine pathway prior to March 2020.\n\n(ii) My officials have been working with the Gender Identity Services Pathway Review Group and the Gender Identity Services Liaison Panel (which includes representatives from transgender organisations) to develop the Gender Identity Service. At the next quarterly meeting, they will have the opportunity to discuss the ban on puberty blockers by NHS England.","answerHtml":"(i) Currently the decision of NHS England to ban puberty blockers has had no repercussions for those in Northern Ireland. Puberty blockers are not banned in Northern Ireland. They are available on NHS prescription for those under 18s, who were accepted and remain in the Belfast Trust's Knowing Our Identity Service endocrine pathway prior to March 2020.
(ii) My officials have been working with the Gender Identity Services Pathway Review Group and the Gender Identity Services Liaison Panel (which includes representatives from transgender organisations) to develop the Gender Identity Service. At the next quarterly meeting, they will have the opportunity to discuss the ban on puberty blockers by NHS England.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209044%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394433"}},{"id":"394432","reference":"AQW 9043/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-15","answerBy":"2024-04-04","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the options that exist for creating an offshore windfarm; and (ii) the difference in cost between these and the options that exist for an onshore windfarm.","answerText":"My Department established the Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) Steering Group to develop an action plan to deliver offshore renewable energy in the north.\n\nWorking collaboratively across various government departments and with partner organisations, officials have developed a draft OREAP. The Draft OREAP aims to enable the deployment of 1GW of offshore energy in our marine area from 2030.\n\nAs you are aware Planning is within the remit of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), therefore my Department does not hold the cost information you have requested. DfI have provided me with the following information in relation to your question:\n\nPlanning fees are prescribed under the Planning (Fees) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015, and schedule 2 of this sets out the fee levels by category of development (Scales of Fees)\n\nCurrently, fees for onshore windfarms are considered under Category 6 ‘The erection, alteration or replacement of plant and machinery including telecommunications/data communications equipment, a single wind turbine and wind farms’.\n\nThe fee payable is calculated as such: (a) where the site area does not exceed 5 hectares, £409 for each 0.1 hectare of the site area; (b) where the site area exceeds 5 hectares, £20,450; and an additional £121 for each 0.1 hectare in excess of 5 hectares, subject to a maximum in total of £304,316","answerHtml":"My Department established the Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan (OREAP) Steering Group to develop an action plan to deliver offshore renewable energy in the north.
Working collaboratively across various government departments and with partner organisations, officials have developed a draft OREAP. The Draft OREAP aims to enable the deployment of 1GW of offshore energy in our marine area from 2030.
As you are aware Planning is within the remit of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), therefore my Department does not hold the cost information you have requested. DfI have provided me with the following information in relation to your question:
Planning fees are prescribed under the Planning (Fees) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015, and schedule 2 of this sets out the fee levels by category of development (Scales of Fees)
Currently, fees for onshore windfarms are considered under Category 6 ‘The erection, alteration or replacement of plant and machinery including telecommunications/data communications equipment, a single wind turbine and wind farms’.
The fee payable is calculated as such: (a) where the site area does not exceed 5 hectares, £409 for each 0.1 hectare of the site area; (b) where the site area exceeds 5 hectares, £20,450; and an additional £121 for each 0.1 hectare in excess of 5 hectares, subject to a maximum in total of £304,316
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209043%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394432","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394432"}},{"id":"394165","reference":"AQW 8932/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the percentage of recyclable materials generated in Northern Ireland that is recycled in (a) Northern Ireland; (b) the Republic of Ireland; (c) the UK; and (d) elsewhere; and (iii) what safeguards are in place to ensure the material sent outside of Northern Ireland is recycled as opposed to disposed of in another way.","answerText":"Robust data is collected from all 11 councils on municipal recycling. At present there is no mandatory requirement for any other sectors to report on the recycling of waste generated in Northern Ireland, therefore, the data available is limited largely to household waste.\n\nFrom the Local Authority Collected Municipal Waste (LACMW) data in 2022/23:\n\n75% of this material was recycled in Northern Ireland\n\n2.4% of this material was sent to Republic of Ireland for recycling.\n\n5.6% of this material was sent to Great Britain for recycling with the total UK figure being 80.6%.\n\n17% of this material was sent elsewhere for recycling.\n\nFor waste movements outside of NI but inside the UK i.e. to GB there is a Duty of Care and associated code of practice in NI. Waste destined for international recycling must comply with the requirements of the 1013/2006 Waste Shipment Regulations. There are assurances and checks in place as part of this process which is regulated by NIEA. Assurances include quality checks on NI waste prior to export, verification checks of destination recycling sites and liaison with the competent authorities in destination and transit countries.\n\nYours sincerely","answerHtml":"Robust data is collected from all 11 councils on municipal recycling. At present there is no mandatory requirement for any other sectors to report on the recycling of waste generated in Northern Ireland, therefore, the data available is limited largely to household waste.
From the Local Authority Collected Municipal Waste (LACMW) data in 2022/23:
75% of this material was recycled in Northern Ireland
2.4% of this material was sent to Republic of Ireland for recycling.
5.6% of this material was sent to Great Britain for recycling with the total UK figure being 80.6%.
17% of this material was sent elsewhere for recycling.
For waste movements outside of NI but inside the UK i.e. to GB there is a Duty of Care and associated code of practice in NI. Waste destined for international recycling must comply with the requirements of the 1013/2006 Waste Shipment Regulations. There are assurances and checks in place as part of this process which is regulated by NIEA. Assurances include quality checks on NI waste prior to export, verification checks of destination recycling sites and liaison with the competent authorities in destination and transit countries.
Yours sincerely
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208932%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394165","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394165"}},{"id":"394164","reference":"AQW 8931/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what steps he is taking to (i) increase the number of Education Welfare Officers; (ii) reduce the backlog of children waiting to be allocated one; and (iii) equate the pay of Education Welfare Officers with social workers.","answerText":"My officials are working with the Education Authority on a Business Case to resolve the on-going industrial action within the Education Welfare Service which is having a negative impact on waiting lists. The Business Case will need to be agreed by the Department of Finance and funding will be required to resolve the pay and grading issues.\n\nFollowing a Transformation programme conducted in 2021/22, it was agreed that the Education Welfare Service would take a proactive approach to the management of pupil attendance and all the associated issues. Once implemented, a transformed Education Welfare Service will provide a timelier, consistent, and more effective approach which will support schools and pupils in meeting their specific needs.","answerHtml":"My officials are working with the Education Authority on a Business Case to resolve the on-going industrial action within the Education Welfare Service which is having a negative impact on waiting lists. The Business Case will need to be agreed by the Department of Finance and funding will be required to resolve the pay and grading issues.
Following a Transformation programme conducted in 2021/22, it was agreed that the Education Welfare Service would take a proactive approach to the management of pupil attendance and all the associated issues. Once implemented, a transformed Education Welfare Service will provide a timelier, consistent, and more effective approach which will support schools and pupils in meeting their specific needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208931%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394164","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394164"}},{"id":"394163","reference":"AQW 8930/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the policy of offering places in care homes for those awaiting discharge from hospital, but for whom a required care package is not in place.","answerText":"This policy has been operating since September 2022.\n\nWhere a person that may otherwise have been offered a domiciliary care package as part of their discharge is unable to be provided with such a package on a timely basis, they will be offered a place in appropriate residential/nursing accommodation on a temporary basis if their needs cannot be met safely at home without some form of support.\n\nWhere this offer is accepted, and the individual moves into residential/nursing accommodation on a temporary basis, the relevant charging regulations will not be applied while their preferred option of a domiciliary care package is not available.\n\nHowever, should they later be offered, and choose to decline, a domiciliary care package, when it can be provided, then the charging position will change at this point in line with the relevant charging regulations.\n\nSince September 2022, 347 patients in the South Eastern Trust have availed of this offer at a cost of £2.3m. 68 patients in the Western Trust have also taken up this offer at a cost of £1.4m. The remaining Trusts were unable to provide the information sought within the set time frame.","answerHtml":"This policy has been operating since September 2022.
Where a person that may otherwise have been offered a domiciliary care package as part of their discharge is unable to be provided with such a package on a timely basis, they will be offered a place in appropriate residential/nursing accommodation on a temporary basis if their needs cannot be met safely at home without some form of support.
Where this offer is accepted, and the individual moves into residential/nursing accommodation on a temporary basis, the relevant charging regulations will not be applied while their preferred option of a domiciliary care package is not available.
However, should they later be offered, and choose to decline, a domiciliary care package, when it can be provided, then the charging position will change at this point in line with the relevant charging regulations.
Since September 2022, 347 patients in the South Eastern Trust have availed of this offer at a cost of £2.3m. 68 patients in the Western Trust have also taken up this offer at a cost of £1.4m. The remaining Trusts were unable to provide the information sought within the set time frame.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208930%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394163","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394163"}},{"id":"394162","reference":"AQW 8929/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans he has to increase the (i) number; and (ii) spread of electric vehicle charge points, particularly the ultra-rapid variety.","answerText":"The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle charge points is a commercial operation in the North of Ireland. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of any commercially operated charge point rests solely with the charge point operator. Current providers operating in the North include BP Pulse, Easygo, ESB, Maxol and Weev. The market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure. My Department has no plans to intervene in this commercial market but will continue to provide advice to Chargepoint Operators (CPOs) on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.\n\nMy Department does not hold information detailing electrical vehicle charging points or their locations. Relevant up to date electric vehicle charge point locations can be found on online platforms, such as https://www.zapmap.com. The relevant charge point operators are best placed to advise you of their plans for the installation of charge points in your constituency.\n\nLocal Councils have also been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emission’s, On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme which my Department match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council are leading a consortium on this work having been successful in securing funding to install 124 charge points across nine Council areas and may be in a position to outline their plans should you wish to contact them.\n\nMy Department has also set up an EV Infrastructure Task-Force, bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider the barriers to enhancing our EV charging infrastructure requirements. An Action Plan to deliver a commercially led, fit for purpose, modern EV charging network was agreed in autumn 2022. The Action Plan can be found here:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/electric-vehicle-ev-infrastructure-action-plan.","answerHtml":"The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle charge points is a commercial operation in the North of Ireland. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of any commercially operated charge point rests solely with the charge point operator. Current providers operating in the North include BP Pulse, Easygo, ESB, Maxol and Weev. The market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure. My Department has no plans to intervene in this commercial market but will continue to provide advice to Chargepoint Operators (CPOs) on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.
My Department does not hold information detailing electrical vehicle charging points or their locations. Relevant up to date electric vehicle charge point locations can be found on online platforms, such as https://www.zapmap.com. The relevant charge point operators are best placed to advise you of their plans for the installation of charge points in your constituency.
Local Councils have also been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emission’s, On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme which my Department match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council are leading a consortium on this work having been successful in securing funding to install 124 charge points across nine Council areas and may be in a position to outline their plans should you wish to contact them.
My Department has also set up an EV Infrastructure Task-Force, bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider the barriers to enhancing our EV charging infrastructure requirements. An Action Plan to deliver a commercially led, fit for purpose, modern EV charging network was agreed in autumn 2022. The Action Plan can be found here:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/electric-vehicle-ev-infrastructure-action-plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208929%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394162","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394162"}},{"id":"394161","reference":"AQW 8928/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-14","answerBy":"2024-04-03","answered":"2024-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the reasons behind obliging councillors to attend meetings in person; (ii) whether there are mitigating circumstances in which councillors may still attend remotely; and (iii) to detail the remote working policy in the Department for Communities.","answerText":"The flexibility for councillors to attend meetings remotely was introduced using enabling powers in section 78 of the Coronavirus Act 2020. This was intended as emergency legislation, and I do not believe there is justification in prolonging provisions made under the Coronavirus Act. The decision not to extend provisions of the Coronavirus Act means that remote attendance at council meetings has temporarily ceased, however, I am committed to bringing forward regulations under the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act 2021, within as short a timeframe as possible, to provide councils with the flexibility to hold meetings by remote or hybrid means.\n\nThere are no mitigating circumstances which would currently allow councillors to attend remotely. It will require new legislation to reintroduce arrangements for hybrid/remote meetings.\n\nThe Department for Communities follows the NICS Hybrid Working Policy, a copy of which can be found here https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dfp/NICS%20Hybrid%20Working%20Policy%20-%20MASTER%20clean%20v1.3%20Oct22%20with%20links.pdf","answerHtml":"The flexibility for councillors to attend meetings remotely was introduced using enabling powers in section 78 of the Coronavirus Act 2020. This was intended as emergency legislation, and I do not believe there is justification in prolonging provisions made under the Coronavirus Act. The decision not to extend provisions of the Coronavirus Act means that remote attendance at council meetings has temporarily ceased, however, I am committed to bringing forward regulations under the Local Government (Meetings and Performance) Act 2021, within as short a timeframe as possible, to provide councils with the flexibility to hold meetings by remote or hybrid means.
There are no mitigating circumstances which would currently allow councillors to attend remotely. It will require new legislation to reintroduce arrangements for hybrid/remote meetings.
The Department for Communities follows the NICS Hybrid Working Policy, a copy of which can be found here https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dfp/NICS%20Hybrid%20Working%20Policy%20-%20MASTER%20clean%20v1.3%20Oct22%20with%20links.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208928%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=394161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=394161"}},{"id":"393860","reference":"AQW 8825/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what plans she has to participate in discussions in relation to the prospective move away from criminality by the UDA.","answerText":"I am not aware of any such discussions taking place with the UDA and as Minister of Justice it would not be appropriate for me to participate in discussions with a proscribed organisation. Where people are engaged in criminality, they should either stop or expect to face the force of the law. PSNI and other law enforcement agencies have my full support in pursuing those who use the cloak of paramilitarism as cover to carry out harm in communities.\n\nAs well as criminal justice measures, I am focused on supporting cross-Government initiatives to address the vulnerabilities in communities that are often exploited by paramilitaries. This is being addressed through the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism and Organised Crime Programme and many other interventions.","answerHtml":"I am not aware of any such discussions taking place with the UDA and as Minister of Justice it would not be appropriate for me to participate in discussions with a proscribed organisation. Where people are engaged in criminality, they should either stop or expect to face the force of the law. PSNI and other law enforcement agencies have my full support in pursuing those who use the cloak of paramilitarism as cover to carry out harm in communities.
As well as criminal justice measures, I am focused on supporting cross-Government initiatives to address the vulnerabilities in communities that are often exploited by paramilitaries. This is being addressed through the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism and Organised Crime Programme and many other interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208825%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393860"}},{"id":"393859","reference":"AQW 8824/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has a role to encourage individuals from a Catholic community background to join the PSNI.","answerText":"It is incumbent upon me, as upon all elected representatives, to encourage people from all walks of life, including but not limited to religious background, to consider a career in policing in order to ensure that the Police Service of Northern Ireland is representative of the population which it serves.\n\nMy role as Minister is to provide a legislative framework with appropriate measures in place to ensure accountability in the recruitment process in addition to the normal oversight arrangements operated by the Policing Board. There is currently provision for targeting advertising to reach under-represented groups and the recruitment process is open to all those who meet the minimum criteria regardless of their religious background.","answerHtml":"It is incumbent upon me, as upon all elected representatives, to encourage people from all walks of life, including but not limited to religious background, to consider a career in policing in order to ensure that the Police Service of Northern Ireland is representative of the population which it serves.
My role as Minister is to provide a legislative framework with appropriate measures in place to ensure accountability in the recruitment process in addition to the normal oversight arrangements operated by the Policing Board. There is currently provision for targeting advertising to reach under-represented groups and the recruitment process is open to all those who meet the minimum criteria regardless of their religious background.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208824%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393859"}},{"id":"393858","reference":"AQW 8823/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to develop an anti-poverty strategy.","answerText":"Addressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me and I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for our communities right across Northern Ireland.\n\nI am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Executive Anti-Poverty Strategy. Final decisions on the content and implementation of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"Addressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me and I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for our communities right across Northern Ireland.
I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Executive Anti-Poverty Strategy. Final decisions on the content and implementation of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208823%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393858"}},{"id":"393857","reference":"AQW 8822/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what steps he will take to (i) reverse the decline in jobs growth; and (ii) reduce the number of redundancies.","answerText":"While the number of employee jobs here decreased in the quarter to December 2023 by 0.6%, it is more appropriate to consider the year-on-year change, which has increased by 0.8% in the year to December 2023, with the growth of over 6,400 new jobs. I aim to continue and accelerate this trend by working to raise productivity through a focus on skills, support to business and recognition of the specific productivity issues in some areas. I will refocus Invest NI to ensure it delivers locally designed interventions to support our small and medium-sized enterprises, work in collaboration with local partners to enhance existing areas of strength and seek to attract higher productivity Foreign Direct Investment.\n\nMy department has been notified of 2,430 confirmed redundancies in the twelve-month period to February 2024, which is a significant increase on the 940 confirmed redundancies in the previous twelve months, although both are similar to pre-pandemic data. I intend to bring forward a Good Jobs Bill, which will provide flexibility and protect workers’ rights, and strengthen the role of trade unions, particularly in low paying sectors.","answerHtml":"While the number of employee jobs here decreased in the quarter to December 2023 by 0.6%, it is more appropriate to consider the year-on-year change, which has increased by 0.8% in the year to December 2023, with the growth of over 6,400 new jobs. I aim to continue and accelerate this trend by working to raise productivity through a focus on skills, support to business and recognition of the specific productivity issues in some areas. I will refocus Invest NI to ensure it delivers locally designed interventions to support our small and medium-sized enterprises, work in collaboration with local partners to enhance existing areas of strength and seek to attract higher productivity Foreign Direct Investment.
My department has been notified of 2,430 confirmed redundancies in the twelve-month period to February 2024, which is a significant increase on the 940 confirmed redundancies in the previous twelve months, although both are similar to pre-pandemic data. I intend to bring forward a Good Jobs Bill, which will provide flexibility and protect workers’ rights, and strengthen the role of trade unions, particularly in low paying sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208822%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393857"}},{"id":"393856","reference":"AQW 8821/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-13","answerBy":"2024-03-29","answered":"2024-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the work that is being undertaken to increase the number of ultra-rapid electric vehicle charge points.","answerText":"The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle charge points is a commercial operation in the North of Ireland. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of any commercially operated charge point rests solely with the charge point operator. Current providers operating in the North include BP Pulse, Easygo, ESB, Maxol and Weev. The market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure. My Department has no plans to intervene in this commercial market but will continue to provide advice to Chargepoint Operators (CPOs) on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.\n\nMy Department does not hold information detailing electrical vehicle charging points or their locations. Relevant up to date electric vehicle charge point locations can be found on online platforms, such as https://www.zapmap.com. The relevant charge point operators are best placed to advise you of their plans for the installation of charge points in your constituency.\n\nLocal Councils have also been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emission’s, On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme which my Department match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council are leading a consortium on this work having been successful in securing funding to install 124 charge points across nine Council areas and may be in a position to outline their plans should you wish to contact them.\n\nMy Department has also set up an EV Infrastructure Task-Force, bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider the barriers to enhancing our EV charging infrastructure requirements. An Action Plan to deliver a commercially led, fit for purpose, modern EV charging network was agreed in autumn 2022. The Action Plan can be found here:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/electric-vehicle-ev-infrastructure-action-plan.","answerHtml":"The provision and operation of publicly accessible electric vehicle charge points is a commercial operation in the North of Ireland. Responsibility for the maintenance and installation of any commercially operated charge point rests solely with the charge point operator. Current providers operating in the North include BP Pulse, Easygo, ESB, Maxol and Weev. The market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure. My Department has no plans to intervene in this commercial market but will continue to provide advice to Chargepoint Operators (CPOs) on operational matters such as procedural arrangements for planning and installation requirements.
My Department does not hold information detailing electrical vehicle charging points or their locations. Relevant up to date electric vehicle charge point locations can be found on online platforms, such as https://www.zapmap.com. The relevant charge point operators are best placed to advise you of their plans for the installation of charge points in your constituency.
Local Councils have also been able to avail of funding for the installation of charge points under the Office for Zero Emission’s, On Street Residential Charge Point Scheme which my Department match funded. Derry City and Strabane District Council are leading a consortium on this work having been successful in securing funding to install 124 charge points across nine Council areas and may be in a position to outline their plans should you wish to contact them.
My Department has also set up an EV Infrastructure Task-Force, bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider the barriers to enhancing our EV charging infrastructure requirements. An Action Plan to deliver a commercially led, fit for purpose, modern EV charging network was agreed in autumn 2022. The Action Plan can be found here:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/electric-vehicle-ev-infrastructure-action-plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208821%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393856","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393856"}},{"id":"393635","reference":"AQW 8718/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the mechanism via which the £20 million regeneration funding for Coleraine will be distributed; (ii) whether groups or organisations may apply for funding; and (iii) the geographical limit where the money may be spent.","answerText":"This funding was announced by the UK Government. My department has not been involved in any discussions relating to this funding.","answerHtml":"This funding was announced by the UK Government. My department has not been involved in any discussions relating to this funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208718%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393635","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393635"}},{"id":"393634","reference":"AQW 8717/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-04-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, given the loss of Coleraine’s enterprise zone, whether the recently announced new prospective client is still in the process of locating to the Atlantic Link area.","answerText":"The prospective client has withdrawn its interest in the Atlantic Link site.\n\nWork is ongoing between officials in my Department and the British government to develop proposals for the Enhanced Investment Zone.","answerHtml":"The prospective client has withdrawn its interest in the Atlantic Link site.
Work is ongoing between officials in my Department and the British government to develop proposals for the Enhanced Investment Zone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208717%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393634","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393634"}},{"id":"393633","reference":"AQW 8716/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the work that has been undertaken to emphasise the north coast’s surfing conditions in attracting tourists to the area.","answerText":"Tourism NI (TNI) supports the development and promotion of surfing along the Causeway Coastal Route through Experience Development, Investment, Marketing Campaigns and International Media Visits.\n\nTNI provides assistance for tourism organisations to support them in creating experiences that embrace our giant spirit and stimulate demand for tourism in the North to the benefit of the wider economy.\n\nTNI is currently working with Alive Adventures Surf School in Portrush, to onboard the business to the destination brand and support its wider activities which include e-biking, to support year-round sustainability. Alive Adventures received a total investment of £132,341.79 from the Experience Development Programme 21/23 to fund activity equipment and the development of a safety briefing area.\n\nIn 2023, TNI produced a new online toolkit for all outdoor activity business titled “Developing Experiences in the Outdoors”, which supports growth into new markets and encourages businesses to work in partnership to grow their destination.\n\nTNI's consumer website - discovernorthernireland.com provides a surf specific landing page, currently hosts tailored information about each of the following key surf providers: Long Line Surf School (Limavady), Troggs Surf School SUB6 Surf & SUP School, Portrush Surf School and Alive Adventures (all Portrush). In addition, in promotes many of the key surfing beaches which often provide information relating to existing surfing providers, facilities and services, and link to nearby attractions and accommodation.\n\nThe website also promotes the wide range of water-based activity on the Causeway Coastal Route to compliment the surf offer for example Freedive NI, Revive North Coast, Active Adventures NI, Causeway Coasteering, Get up & Get on Paddleboarding and Eagle Divers NI.\n\nThis content is often curated in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.\n\nEach year, TNI work closely with Tourism Ireland to curate itineraries for International Media Visits. The itineraries are themed by interest area such as golf, culture arts and heritage etc The 2024 soft adventure programme includes a Causeway Coast surfing experience.\n\nTNI's Marketing Campaigns target consumers across Ireland, including TV, Broadcast Video On Demand, Radio, Press, Social & Digital, Email, PR and Influencer activity. Long Line Surf School is featured in the current 2024 Spring Campaign and are part of our Active Maximiser segment product offering, for which we commissioned photography last year. In addition to campaign activity, surf schools are featured seasonally i.e. inclusion in bank holiday bucket lists, activities for families etc.\n\nSimilarly, TNI digital campaign promotes Long Line Surf School which has featured continuously at both Belfast Airports since Summer 2022.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI (TNI) supports the development and promotion of surfing along the Causeway Coastal Route through Experience Development, Investment, Marketing Campaigns and International Media Visits.
TNI provides assistance for tourism organisations to support them in creating experiences that embrace our giant spirit and stimulate demand for tourism in the North to the benefit of the wider economy.
TNI is currently working with Alive Adventures Surf School in Portrush, to onboard the business to the destination brand and support its wider activities which include e-biking, to support year-round sustainability. Alive Adventures received a total investment of £132,341.79 from the Experience Development Programme 21/23 to fund activity equipment and the development of a safety briefing area.
In 2023, TNI produced a new online toolkit for all outdoor activity business titled “Developing Experiences in the Outdoors”, which supports growth into new markets and encourages businesses to work in partnership to grow their destination.
TNI's consumer website - discovernorthernireland.com provides a surf specific landing page, currently hosts tailored information about each of the following key surf providers: Long Line Surf School (Limavady), Troggs Surf School SUB6 Surf & SUP School, Portrush Surf School and Alive Adventures (all Portrush). In addition, in promotes many of the key surfing beaches which often provide information relating to existing surfing providers, facilities and services, and link to nearby attractions and accommodation.
The website also promotes the wide range of water-based activity on the Causeway Coastal Route to compliment the surf offer for example Freedive NI, Revive North Coast, Active Adventures NI, Causeway Coasteering, Get up & Get on Paddleboarding and Eagle Divers NI.
This content is often curated in partnership with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
Each year, TNI work closely with Tourism Ireland to curate itineraries for International Media Visits. The itineraries are themed by interest area such as golf, culture arts and heritage etc The 2024 soft adventure programme includes a Causeway Coast surfing experience.
TNI's Marketing Campaigns target consumers across Ireland, including TV, Broadcast Video On Demand, Radio, Press, Social & Digital, Email, PR and Influencer activity. Long Line Surf School is featured in the current 2024 Spring Campaign and are part of our Active Maximiser segment product offering, for which we commissioned photography last year. In addition to campaign activity, surf schools are featured seasonally i.e. inclusion in bank holiday bucket lists, activities for families etc.
Similarly, TNI digital campaign promotes Long Line Surf School which has featured continuously at both Belfast Airports since Summer 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208716%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393633","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393633"}},{"id":"393632","reference":"AQW 8715/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any expressions of interest that have been (i) sought; or (ii) received as part of the development of the previous Shackleton Barracks site.","answerText":"MJM Renewables was selected as the preferred purchaser of the Shackleton site following an assessment process in 2016.\n\nThe Executive Office no longer owns the Shackleton site.","answerHtml":"MJM Renewables was selected as the preferred purchaser of the Shackleton site following an assessment process in 2016.
The Executive Office no longer owns the Shackleton site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208715%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393632","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393632"}},{"id":"393631","reference":"AQW 8714/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-12","answerBy":"2024-03-28","answered":"2024-04-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for her assessment of (i) the changes in the recent budget regarding the scrapping of tax incentives for owners of holiday lets; and (ii) how this could impact the north coast area.","answerText":"My department has not undertaken an assessment of these changes. That would be a matter for the British Treasury, which is responsible for taxation and the removal of this relief, and the Department for the Economy, which has local policy responsibility for tourism.","answerHtml":"My department has not undertaken an assessment of these changes. That would be a matter for the British Treasury, which is responsible for taxation and the removal of this relief, and the Department for the Economy, which has local policy responsibility for tourism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208714%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393631","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393631"}},{"id":"393358","reference":"AQW 8600/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-11","answerBy":"2024-03-27","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the number of vehicles without a valid MOT certificate; (ii) the number of vehicles both without valid car tax and not declared as SORN; (iii) the number of vehicles that have an MOT certificate due to expire within one month and do not have an MOT appointment booked; (iv) the impact of the cracked vehicle lifts in MOT testing centres; and (v) the resultant reduction in test frequency during the period of repair or replacement of the lifts.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold this information requested at points (i) and (ii). Whilst the DVA holds the information requested at point (iii), it is not held in a readily accessible format and would take a significant amount of time and cost to produce.\n\nThere has been no impact on MOT testing as a result of small hairline cracks being identified in the welds of the main scissor bushing in a number of vehicle lifts. The lifts are independently assessed, with the assessor attributing their lowest category of fault to this issue. The lifts remain serviceable and safe to use.\n\nThe inspection frequency for the affected lifts has been increased from an eight-weekly inspection to a four-weekly inspection. Where possible, any repairs required to vehicle testing equipment are completed during DVA’s planned preventative maintenance programme to minimise any disruption to the delivery of MOT services.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold this information requested at points (i) and (ii). Whilst the DVA holds the information requested at point (iii), it is not held in a readily accessible format and would take a significant amount of time and cost to produce.
There has been no impact on MOT testing as a result of small hairline cracks being identified in the welds of the main scissor bushing in a number of vehicle lifts. The lifts are independently assessed, with the assessor attributing their lowest category of fault to this issue. The lifts remain serviceable and safe to use.
The inspection frequency for the affected lifts has been increased from an eight-weekly inspection to a four-weekly inspection. Where possible, any repairs required to vehicle testing equipment are completed during DVA’s planned preventative maintenance programme to minimise any disruption to the delivery of MOT services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208600%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393358"}},{"id":"393357","reference":"AQW 8599/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-11","answerBy":"2024-03-27","answered":"2024-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what steps he will take to ensure planning officials are kept up to date and fully trained in the latest renewable energy technology, so as to better make recommendations and decisions within councils.","answerText":"I recognise that training is an important component of improving the planning process.\n\nThe identification of training needs for planning officers across local government is primarily the responsibility of each council. However, my Department has been engaging with the renewables industry and other stakeholders, including Councils, with a view to working collaboratively on learning opportunities in relation to the latest renewable energy technology.","answerHtml":"I recognise that training is an important component of improving the planning process.
The identification of training needs for planning officers across local government is primarily the responsibility of each council. However, my Department has been engaging with the renewables industry and other stakeholders, including Councils, with a view to working collaboratively on learning opportunities in relation to the latest renewable energy technology.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208599%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393357"}},{"id":"393356","reference":"AQW 8598/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-11","answerBy":"2024-03-27","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the work being done to attract, train and retain carers.","answerText":"Staffing levels continue to be a significant challenge across the health and social care sector. My officials continue to work to maximise current capacity in social care and to engage with service providers in regard to addressing those ongoing issues of recruitment and retention. This is only possible with a skilled and dedicated workforce.\n\nI recognise the need for action to support the social care sector, and those working in it. My immediate priority on return to post, was to see pay negotiations taken forward and concluded without undue delay, for health and social care workers in the statutory sector.\n\nIn recognition of the challenges facing the independent social care sector, I recently announced a £70m funding package across a range of service provision, including domiciliary care. The purpose of this funding is to ensure independent sector providers have the necessary funding to meet the challenges of increases to national living wage from the beginning of April. I have also established structures to consider how we move the sector to a Real Living Wage employer base and significant work is ongoing to build the case for the additional funding that will be required to deliver this.\n\nIn recognition of the fundamental need to deliver reform and transformation in Health and Social Care, my Department has established the Adult Social Care Collaborative Forum and the Children’s Strategic Reform Board. Within both of these Forums, there are workstreams focused on supporting, developing and improving the social care workforce.\n\nThese workstreams are implementing a range of measures that include:\n\nPublishing a Social Care Workforce Strategy which will set out a vision to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next 10 years. The strategy will include actions to develop career pathways, support the training and education of the workforce, and to raise the profile and recognition of the social care workforce as a skilled and competent workforce. It is anticipated that the Strategy will be published in late 2024.\n\nIn partnership with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, work is ongoing to develop the training, career and qualification pathways for the social care workforce.\n\nIn partnership with all stakeholders’ social care campaigns are ongoing to raise the profile and recognise the significant contribution that the social care workforce provides.\n\nIn addition, the Social Care Fair Work Forum has also been established which will seek to embed Fair Work initiatives and improve the terms and conditions for everyone employed across all parts of the social care sector.","answerHtml":"Staffing levels continue to be a significant challenge across the health and social care sector. My officials continue to work to maximise current capacity in social care and to engage with service providers in regard to addressing those ongoing issues of recruitment and retention. This is only possible with a skilled and dedicated workforce.
I recognise the need for action to support the social care sector, and those working in it. My immediate priority on return to post, was to see pay negotiations taken forward and concluded without undue delay, for health and social care workers in the statutory sector.
In recognition of the challenges facing the independent social care sector, I recently announced a £70m funding package across a range of service provision, including domiciliary care. The purpose of this funding is to ensure independent sector providers have the necessary funding to meet the challenges of increases to national living wage from the beginning of April. I have also established structures to consider how we move the sector to a Real Living Wage employer base and significant work is ongoing to build the case for the additional funding that will be required to deliver this.
In recognition of the fundamental need to deliver reform and transformation in Health and Social Care, my Department has established the Adult Social Care Collaborative Forum and the Children’s Strategic Reform Board. Within both of these Forums, there are workstreams focused on supporting, developing and improving the social care workforce.
These workstreams are implementing a range of measures that include:
Publishing a Social Care Workforce Strategy which will set out a vision to develop a sustainable social care workforce over the next 10 years. The strategy will include actions to develop career pathways, support the training and education of the workforce, and to raise the profile and recognition of the social care workforce as a skilled and competent workforce. It is anticipated that the Strategy will be published in late 2024.
In partnership with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, work is ongoing to develop the training, career and qualification pathways for the social care workforce.
In partnership with all stakeholders’ social care campaigns are ongoing to raise the profile and recognise the significant contribution that the social care workforce provides.
In addition, the Social Care Fair Work Forum has also been established which will seek to embed Fair Work initiatives and improve the terms and conditions for everyone employed across all parts of the social care sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208598%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393356"}},{"id":"393355","reference":"AQW 8597/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-11","answerBy":"2024-03-27","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the scale of illegal moneylending; and (ii) what tools she is using to address this practice.","answerText":"Whilst illegal money lending is an under-reported crime in Northern Ireland, it is one that we know is causing significant harm within communities.\n\nMany reasons underpin underreporting: some victims are concerned about reporting their own involvement with those involved in illegal activity while others fear reprisals if they provide information to the police. The possibility of victims being drawn into criminality due to unpaid ‘debts’ ‘owed’ to paramilitary groups also prevents some victims from seeking help or reporting concerns.\n\nAddressing the harm from illegal money lending requires a system-wide response and PSNI work with a range of partners to assist those affected, including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, foodbanks and community fridges, Northern Ireland Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders (NIACRO) (Base2), Christians against Poverty (CAP) and other community groups including addiction support and women's groups.\n\nThe Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) has helped to raise awareness of the issue through its current ‘Ending the Harm’ public awareness campaign on this topic and also provides a wide range of supports to people who are at risk of many types of paramilitary exploitation.\n\nThe Department for Communities funds Advice NI and its affiliated front-line community-based centres to deliver a free, independent, and impartial debt advice service. Their Debt Advisers can support victims of illegal money lending by offering free, independent debt advice.\n\nPSNI have been upskilling their officers in identified hotspot locations to be more aware of illegal money lending and, also, how to maximise potential investigative opportunities. Illegal money lending has also recently been added as a specific crime type for the purposes of police recording, helping to ensure that there is a greater understanding of the prevalence of this activity in the future.","answerHtml":"Whilst illegal money lending is an under-reported crime in Northern Ireland, it is one that we know is causing significant harm within communities.
Many reasons underpin underreporting: some victims are concerned about reporting their own involvement with those involved in illegal activity while others fear reprisals if they provide information to the police. The possibility of victims being drawn into criminality due to unpaid ‘debts’ ‘owed’ to paramilitary groups also prevents some victims from seeking help or reporting concerns.
Addressing the harm from illegal money lending requires a system-wide response and PSNI work with a range of partners to assist those affected, including the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, foodbanks and community fridges, Northern Ireland Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders (NIACRO) (Base2), Christians against Poverty (CAP) and other community groups including addiction support and women's groups.
The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) has helped to raise awareness of the issue through its current ‘Ending the Harm’ public awareness campaign on this topic and also provides a wide range of supports to people who are at risk of many types of paramilitary exploitation.
The Department for Communities funds Advice NI and its affiliated front-line community-based centres to deliver a free, independent, and impartial debt advice service. Their Debt Advisers can support victims of illegal money lending by offering free, independent debt advice.
PSNI have been upskilling their officers in identified hotspot locations to be more aware of illegal money lending and, also, how to maximise potential investigative opportunities. Illegal money lending has also recently been added as a specific crime type for the purposes of police recording, helping to ensure that there is a greater understanding of the prevalence of this activity in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208597%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393355"}},{"id":"393354","reference":"AQW 8596/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-11","answerBy":"2024-03-27","answered":"2024-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) how he is helping to winter-proof social and low-income housing; and (ii) how he is informing those eligible of the services available.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive and the relevant Housing Associations. The Department does not hold information in relation to winter-proofing for Housing Associations.\n\nI have however sought the requested information from the Housing Executive Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n(i) Annually the Housing Executive deliver an External Cyclical Maintenance programme, a primary aim of which is to ensure the integrity of the external fabric to ensure properties are wind and watertight. It also delivers a heating upgrade programme and a window replacement programme.\n\nThe Housing Executive recently completed the ERDF funded Energy Efficiency in Social Housing programme, installing External Wall Insulation (EWI) in some 1,400 non-traditionally constructed homes.\n\nThe first schemes of NIHE’s innovative 300 Low Carbon Retrofit Programme will be completed in 2024/25; this involves the installation of energy efficiency measures in 300 homes. The Housing Executive has a number of further EWI schemes to be delivered, and has developed an initial Cavity Wall Insulation remediation/replacement programme of over 9,000 dwellings that will be rolled out across the next three to four years.\n\n(ii) The Housing Executive’s freephone NI Energy Advice Service actively promotes energy efficiency advice and grants across all tenures including social housing and low-income households. The advice service is promoted in partnership with a variety of stakeholders including community groups, political representatives and local Councils.\n\nThe Affordable Warmth Scheme provides grants for energy efficiency measures within the home and is currently open to applications. The scheme assists low-income owner-occupiers and households in the private rented sector, with an annual household income of less than £23,000.\n\nTo make an application to the Affordable Warmth Scheme, customers can contact the NI Energy Advice Service via: 0800 1114455 or email: NIenergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk. Details of the Scheme are available on the NIHE and DfC website and also via NI Direct. A press release was also issued by DfC in September 2023 advising of changes to the application process and how those eligible could apply.\n\nHousing Executive tenants are informed of energy related services via its Making Your Money Work Scheme, its Financial Inclusion team, and through liaison with the Energy Advice team to promote Oil Buying Networks to Housing Executive tenants via text messaging and the customer portal.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Housing Executive and the relevant Housing Associations. The Department does not hold information in relation to winter-proofing for Housing Associations.
I have however sought the requested information from the Housing Executive Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
(i) Annually the Housing Executive deliver an External Cyclical Maintenance programme, a primary aim of which is to ensure the integrity of the external fabric to ensure properties are wind and watertight. It also delivers a heating upgrade programme and a window replacement programme.
The Housing Executive recently completed the ERDF funded Energy Efficiency in Social Housing programme, installing External Wall Insulation (EWI) in some 1,400 non-traditionally constructed homes.
The first schemes of NIHE’s innovative 300 Low Carbon Retrofit Programme will be completed in 2024/25; this involves the installation of energy efficiency measures in 300 homes. The Housing Executive has a number of further EWI schemes to be delivered, and has developed an initial Cavity Wall Insulation remediation/replacement programme of over 9,000 dwellings that will be rolled out across the next three to four years.
(ii) The Housing Executive’s freephone NI Energy Advice Service actively promotes energy efficiency advice and grants across all tenures including social housing and low-income households. The advice service is promoted in partnership with a variety of stakeholders including community groups, political representatives and local Councils.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme provides grants for energy efficiency measures within the home and is currently open to applications. The scheme assists low-income owner-occupiers and households in the private rented sector, with an annual household income of less than £23,000.
To make an application to the Affordable Warmth Scheme, customers can contact the NI Energy Advice Service via: 0800 1114455 or email: NIenergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk. Details of the Scheme are available on the NIHE and DfC website and also via NI Direct. A press release was also issued by DfC in September 2023 advising of changes to the application process and how those eligible could apply.
Housing Executive tenants are informed of energy related services via its Making Your Money Work Scheme, its Financial Inclusion team, and through liaison with the Energy Advice team to promote Oil Buying Networks to Housing Executive tenants via text messaging and the customer portal.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208596%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393354"}},{"id":"393080","reference":"AQW 8502/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans he has to work with local councils in identifying properties that have fallen into (i) dereliction; and (ii) disrepair, so that owners may be encouraged to bring them back into use as part of either private or social housing stock.","answerText":"The powers which local Councils have to address dilapidated buildings fall under the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.\n\nHowever, my Department has worked with various local councils to regenerate towns and villages by addressing derelict buildings and bringing them back into use, including as homes. For example, the Department contributed £400,000 to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council “Empty to Occupied” scheme. One of the objectives of this Scheme is to create an opportunity for town centre living and will include bringing eight vacant properties in urban centres across the Borough back into residential use.\n\nThe Village Catalyst grant scheme is a partnership initiative between the Department for Communities, the Department for Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs, the Architectural Heritage Fund, and the Housing Executive. Applications are invited from charities, social enterprise and other not for profit groups in rural villages of less than 5,000 people, who want to tackle rural poverty and social isolation in their area by developing a sustainable use for a disused historic building in their village. 4 pilot projects have been completed to date and 13 villages are actively developing proposals. New projects are being sought for the scheme, which could include housing opportunities.\n\nHeritage in Housing is a match funding programme from the Housing Executive, developed to support the Heritage Lottery Fund Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), by reinstating empty upper floors of landmark buildings within conservation areas for private rent. Between 2015 and 2023, the Housing Executive has provided funding totalling £588,425 for the Heritage in Housing programme, which has contributed to the restoration of 25 empty properties and the provision of rental accommodation within five designated townscape conservation areas. It is anticipated that there is one year remaining of the THI in its current form. During this period, it is proposed that investment will be focused in Armagh and Lurgan.\n\nThe Housing Executive engages with statutory Community Planning partners including Councils, on an ongoing basis, to develop and deliver the actions and outcomes within each of the Community Plans. This engagement has included the development of co-designed ‘Place Shaping Plans’ which aim to identify opportunities to increase the supply of shared, accessible, and affordable housing in areas of housing need.","answerHtml":"The powers which local Councils have to address dilapidated buildings fall under the responsibility of the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.
However, my Department has worked with various local councils to regenerate towns and villages by addressing derelict buildings and bringing them back into use, including as homes. For example, the Department contributed £400,000 to Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council “Empty to Occupied” scheme. One of the objectives of this Scheme is to create an opportunity for town centre living and will include bringing eight vacant properties in urban centres across the Borough back into residential use.
The Village Catalyst grant scheme is a partnership initiative between the Department for Communities, the Department for Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs, the Architectural Heritage Fund, and the Housing Executive. Applications are invited from charities, social enterprise and other not for profit groups in rural villages of less than 5,000 people, who want to tackle rural poverty and social isolation in their area by developing a sustainable use for a disused historic building in their village. 4 pilot projects have been completed to date and 13 villages are actively developing proposals. New projects are being sought for the scheme, which could include housing opportunities.
Heritage in Housing is a match funding programme from the Housing Executive, developed to support the Heritage Lottery Fund Townscape Heritage Initiative (THI), by reinstating empty upper floors of landmark buildings within conservation areas for private rent. Between 2015 and 2023, the Housing Executive has provided funding totalling £588,425 for the Heritage in Housing programme, which has contributed to the restoration of 25 empty properties and the provision of rental accommodation within five designated townscape conservation areas. It is anticipated that there is one year remaining of the THI in its current form. During this period, it is proposed that investment will be focused in Armagh and Lurgan.
The Housing Executive engages with statutory Community Planning partners including Councils, on an ongoing basis, to develop and deliver the actions and outcomes within each of the Community Plans. This engagement has included the development of co-designed ‘Place Shaping Plans’ which aim to identify opportunities to increase the supply of shared, accessible, and affordable housing in areas of housing need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208502%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393080"}},{"id":"393079","reference":"AQW 8501/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the average yearly costs for taxi drivers before any outgoing payments are made, such as payments for (a) required courses; (b) average insurance costs; (c) medical costs; and (d) any other legally required expenses; and (ii) for his assessment of the impact of these fees on the reduction in taxi driver numbers in recent years.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry, in relation to taxi driver, taxi operator and vehicle licencing. Many costs associated with being a taxi driver such as, fuel, depot charges, car rental/hire purchase are outside the remit of my Department. For your reference I have provided detail below in relation to the various aspects of licencing.\n\n(i) (a) Taxi drivers are required to complete 35 hours training across the 5-year validity of their taxi licence. Courses are delivered by DVA approved training providers who set the cost of their training. Costs vary, with some costing as little as £35.\n\n(b) Insurance costs are a commercial matter and outside the remit of my Department.\n\n(c) Drivers must provide a Taxi Medical Report when applying for or renewing their Taxi Driver Licence, with drivers aged 45 and over required to provide one annually. Any charge for these reports, is at the discretion of the GP Practice. My officials have advised me that the BMA’s suggested rate for a Taxi Medical Report is currently £120.\n\n(d) The fee for a first-time application for a taxi driver licence is £140, and £105 for a renewal. A taxi driver licence is normally valid for 5 years.\n\nA taxi vehicle licence costs £147 and is valid for one year. Class A and B taxis can incur a taxi meter test charge of £42. This charge is not incurred again unless the taximeter needs to be retested.\n\nA Taxi Operator Licence costs £140 and once awarded each operator must pay an annual Grant Licence fee, which is dependent on the size of the fleet which they operate.\n\n(ii) The taxi industry operates within the wider context of the existing economic situation and there are many factors that contribute to the current shortage of taxi drivers. I have no evidence to suggest that the fees detailed above have any direct influence on the reducing the number of drivers.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry, in relation to taxi driver, taxi operator and vehicle licencing. Many costs associated with being a taxi driver such as, fuel, depot charges, car rental/hire purchase are outside the remit of my Department. For your reference I have provided detail below in relation to the various aspects of licencing.
(i) (a) Taxi drivers are required to complete 35 hours training across the 5-year validity of their taxi licence. Courses are delivered by DVA approved training providers who set the cost of their training. Costs vary, with some costing as little as £35.
(b) Insurance costs are a commercial matter and outside the remit of my Department.
(c) Drivers must provide a Taxi Medical Report when applying for or renewing their Taxi Driver Licence, with drivers aged 45 and over required to provide one annually. Any charge for these reports, is at the discretion of the GP Practice. My officials have advised me that the BMA’s suggested rate for a Taxi Medical Report is currently £120.
(d) The fee for a first-time application for a taxi driver licence is £140, and £105 for a renewal. A taxi driver licence is normally valid for 5 years.
A taxi vehicle licence costs £147 and is valid for one year. Class A and B taxis can incur a taxi meter test charge of £42. This charge is not incurred again unless the taximeter needs to be retested.
A Taxi Operator Licence costs £140 and once awarded each operator must pay an annual Grant Licence fee, which is dependent on the size of the fleet which they operate.
(ii) The taxi industry operates within the wider context of the existing economic situation and there are many factors that contribute to the current shortage of taxi drivers. I have no evidence to suggest that the fees detailed above have any direct influence on the reducing the number of drivers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208501%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393079","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393079"}},{"id":"393078","reference":"AQW 8500/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on establishing a childcare strategy to provide free, or more affordable childcare, to support those aiming to enter the workforce.","answerText":"My department continues to progress the development of an Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy as a matter of priority. Work is now focusing on the development of a bespoke Northern Ireland package of measures to meet the outcomes we want to achieve, both in the short and longer-term. These include consideration of affordability and enabling parental employment.\n\nTo assist with this, all departments have been invited to allocate staff to a Task and Finish Group which will ensure cross-departmental input across the range of issues the strategy needs to address.\n\nI have bid for funding to enable me to take forward short-term actions in the 2024/25 financial year. I will work with my Executive colleagues on this but progress will ultimately depend on the funds being made available to my department.","answerHtml":"My department continues to progress the development of an Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy as a matter of priority. Work is now focusing on the development of a bespoke Northern Ireland package of measures to meet the outcomes we want to achieve, both in the short and longer-term. These include consideration of affordability and enabling parental employment.
To assist with this, all departments have been invited to allocate staff to a Task and Finish Group which will ensure cross-departmental input across the range of issues the strategy needs to address.
I have bid for funding to enable me to take forward short-term actions in the 2024/25 financial year. I will work with my Executive colleagues on this but progress will ultimately depend on the funds being made available to my department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208500%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393078"}},{"id":"393077","reference":"AQW 8499/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the impact of the delay in implementing a childcare strategy on families and women who wish to be able to work; and (ii) to detail his next steps in working with other Executive departments resolve this issue.","answerText":"The Department of Education leads on the development of an Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. The overarching policy aims of the strategy are to support child development, improve the affordability of childcare for families and, thereby, enable more parents, particularly mothers, to work.\n\nImplementation of the Strategy will be taken forward with the support of a cross-departmental Task and Finish Group, which includes my officials, and will involve further targeted engagement with stakeholders, to inform and test operational planning.\n\nI am committed to supporting working parents to enable them to take up, return to and remain in work. My Department currently provides a range of financial and practical support, including:\n\nUniversal Credit - help with childcare costs\n\nAdviser Discretion Fund – help with upfront childcare costs\n\nEmployability programmes – including Local Labour Market Partnerships (LMP) and JobStart.\n\nAdditional information on help with childcare costs through Universal Credit and the Adviser Discretion Fund is available at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-payments-children-and-childcare\n\nAdditional information on LMP is available at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/employment-and-training-opportunities-your-area\n\nAdditional information on JobStart is available at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/jobstart-scheme\n\nIn support of the development of the Strategy, my officials have shared details of this support with colleagues in the Department of Education.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education leads on the development of an Executive Early Learning and Childcare Strategy. The overarching policy aims of the strategy are to support child development, improve the affordability of childcare for families and, thereby, enable more parents, particularly mothers, to work.
Implementation of the Strategy will be taken forward with the support of a cross-departmental Task and Finish Group, which includes my officials, and will involve further targeted engagement with stakeholders, to inform and test operational planning.
I am committed to supporting working parents to enable them to take up, return to and remain in work. My Department currently provides a range of financial and practical support, including:
Universal Credit - help with childcare costs
Adviser Discretion Fund – help with upfront childcare costs
Employability programmes – including Local Labour Market Partnerships (LMP) and JobStart.
Additional information on help with childcare costs through Universal Credit and the Adviser Discretion Fund is available at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/universal-credit-payments-children-and-childcare
Additional information on LMP is available at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/employment-and-training-opportunities-your-area
Additional information on JobStart is available at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/jobstart-scheme
In support of the development of the Strategy, my officials have shared details of this support with colleagues in the Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208499%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393077"}},{"id":"393076","reference":"AQW 8498/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-08","answerBy":"2024-03-26","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of how loneliness among older people may be exacerbated by living rurally; and (ii) to detail the steps he will take to ensure loneliness among older and more vulnerable rural dwellers is addressed.","answerText":"While the Health Survey (NI) 2022/2023 showed that people living in urban areas were more likely to show signs of loneliness than those living in rural areas, loneliness among older people in rural areas can be exacerbated due to factors such as geographical isolation, poor connectivity and transport links and reduced social opportunities. Other circumstances such as bereavement, ill health or caring responsibilities can also contribute to loneliness among older people.\n\nMy Department supports a number of initiatives under its Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework which help improve health and wellbeing among vulnerable groups in rural areas.\n\nThe Rural Support charity is proactive in seeking to improve the mental health and wellbeing of rural dwellers by providing programmes and services which help address loneliness and social isolation among farmers and farm families. This includes offering a confidential telephone helpline and signposting service for farmers, farm families and other rural dwellers seeking support and promoting connectivity through the ‘Across the Hedgerow’ and ‘Plough On’ projects.\n\nThe Farm Families Health Checks Programme provides farmers, farm families and other rural dwellers attending markets and community events with the opportunity to avail of a comprehensive physical and mental wellbeing assessment. It also provides a signposting service to ensure that those with particular needs receive the support they are entitled to.\n\nThe Rural Support Networks across Northern Ireland help to promote social inclusion and to tackle social isolation by helping to sustain community venues which provide space and opportunities for rural dwellers to meet.\n\nI recognise that loneliness in rural areas is not solely the responsibility of DAERA and that a collaborative approach to tackling loneliness is required. My Department therefore continues to work with other public authorities in seeking to tackle loneliness in rural areas including being represented on the Loneliness Forum which is facilitated by the Department of Health and includes representatives from from the Public Health Agency, the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, the 5 Health and Social Care Trusts and the Institute of Public Health.","answerHtml":"While the Health Survey (NI) 2022/2023 showed that people living in urban areas were more likely to show signs of loneliness than those living in rural areas, loneliness among older people in rural areas can be exacerbated due to factors such as geographical isolation, poor connectivity and transport links and reduced social opportunities. Other circumstances such as bereavement, ill health or caring responsibilities can also contribute to loneliness among older people.
My Department supports a number of initiatives under its Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework which help improve health and wellbeing among vulnerable groups in rural areas.
The Rural Support charity is proactive in seeking to improve the mental health and wellbeing of rural dwellers by providing programmes and services which help address loneliness and social isolation among farmers and farm families. This includes offering a confidential telephone helpline and signposting service for farmers, farm families and other rural dwellers seeking support and promoting connectivity through the ‘Across the Hedgerow’ and ‘Plough On’ projects.
The Farm Families Health Checks Programme provides farmers, farm families and other rural dwellers attending markets and community events with the opportunity to avail of a comprehensive physical and mental wellbeing assessment. It also provides a signposting service to ensure that those with particular needs receive the support they are entitled to.
The Rural Support Networks across Northern Ireland help to promote social inclusion and to tackle social isolation by helping to sustain community venues which provide space and opportunities for rural dwellers to meet.
I recognise that loneliness in rural areas is not solely the responsibility of DAERA and that a collaborative approach to tackling loneliness is required. My Department therefore continues to work with other public authorities in seeking to tackle loneliness in rural areas including being represented on the Loneliness Forum which is facilitated by the Department of Health and includes representatives from from the Public Health Agency, the Northern Ireland Social Care Council, the 5 Health and Social Care Trusts and the Institute of Public Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208498%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393076"}},{"id":"392809","reference":"AQW 8397/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether the Driver and Vehicle Agency still operates as a trading fund, specifically in relation to MOT services; and (ii) to what extent both driver and vehicle testing is tax-payer subsidised.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency still operates as a Trading Fund under the provisions of the Driver & Vehicle Agency Trading Fund (Northern Ireland) Order 2016. MOT services are accounted for within this Trading Fund.\n\nThe operational running costs for driver and vehicle testing services are funded from fees charged to customers for these services. Fees for driver and vehicle testing services were recently reviewed and increases were implemented from 1 October 2023. These increases were necessary to ensure these services can be provided without the need for a taxpayer subsidy.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency still operates as a Trading Fund under the provisions of the Driver & Vehicle Agency Trading Fund (Northern Ireland) Order 2016. MOT services are accounted for within this Trading Fund.
The operational running costs for driver and vehicle testing services are funded from fees charged to customers for these services. Fees for driver and vehicle testing services were recently reviewed and increases were implemented from 1 October 2023. These increases were necessary to ensure these services can be provided without the need for a taxpayer subsidy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208397%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392809"}},{"id":"392808","reference":"AQW 8396/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans (i) to develop a loneliness strategy; and (ii) to help embed loneliness and resultant policies cross-departmentally and in tandem with other relevant strategies.","answerText":"Northern Ireland does not currently have a specific strategy to address loneliness nor one organisation identified to lead on this work. However, it is widely acknowledged that it is an important cross cutting issue that no one organization can tackle independently. It requires a collective and collaborative approach across sectors including, central government, statutory, voluntary and community sectors.\n\nRecognising that as a society, the issue of loneliness needs to be given greater prominence, my department carried out a scoping study in 2020 to identify existing and emerging policies, strategies and initiatives that are in place across the HSC that make a positive contribution to tackling loneliness. Subsequently a Loneliness Forum was established that includes HSC Trusts, the Public Health Agency, the Northern Ireland Social Care Council and DoH staff. DAERA also participate in the forum. The DOH/HSC forum focuses on promoting and sharing best practice.\n\nMy Department is committed to continuing to lead the DOH/HSC Forum and we will liaise with all stakeholders, including other Departments, to further develop plans to tackle loneliness.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland does not currently have a specific strategy to address loneliness nor one organisation identified to lead on this work. However, it is widely acknowledged that it is an important cross cutting issue that no one organization can tackle independently. It requires a collective and collaborative approach across sectors including, central government, statutory, voluntary and community sectors.
Recognising that as a society, the issue of loneliness needs to be given greater prominence, my department carried out a scoping study in 2020 to identify existing and emerging policies, strategies and initiatives that are in place across the HSC that make a positive contribution to tackling loneliness. Subsequently a Loneliness Forum was established that includes HSC Trusts, the Public Health Agency, the Northern Ireland Social Care Council and DoH staff. DAERA also participate in the forum. The DOH/HSC forum focuses on promoting and sharing best practice.
My Department is committed to continuing to lead the DOH/HSC Forum and we will liaise with all stakeholders, including other Departments, to further develop plans to tackle loneliness.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208396%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392808"}},{"id":"392807","reference":"AQW 8395/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to identify people, particularly the older generation, who may be more vulnerable to loneliness and isolation, and to put them in touch with groups that promote greater social engagement and inclusion.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action research (2020) concluded that one in 20 people experience chronic loneliness in Northern Ireland. The rising prevalence of loneliness amongst both older and younger people continues to be identified in such research and in practice and my Department recognises the impact of loneliness on health and wellbeing.\n\nMy Department has taken the following actions.\n\nIn July 2020 an initial scoping study was completed across the HSC organisations. This aimed to capture policies, strategies and activities in place to help tackle loneliness from a health and wellbeing perspective. Subsequently the Department established a DOH/HSC Loneliness Forum involving representatives from the 5 Trusts, NISCC, PHA and DOH policy leads. DAERA has also worked with the forum, recognising many older people may experience loneliness living in rural areas.\n\nThrough the forum, my Department has proactively supported key initiatives that encourage older people and others to connect in their local communities, such as “chatty cafes” and “chatty benches” in local parks. We have also encouraged Trusts to establish, support and fund local loneliness networks, again in rural areas to provide a more sustainable infrastructure in local communities including rural areas.\n\nMore recently we have commissioned NISCC to produce a loneliness learning resource for the social work and social care workforce(s). This is being designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of social workers and social care workers in practice, so that they can intervene at the earliest stage possible and provide support for older people and others who may experience loneliness and social isolation.\n\nThe resource will complement other strategic and policy work that the Department is progressing including the Reform of Adult Social Care; social care and social work workforce policy , the Mental Health Strategy and the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, amongst others.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action research (2020) concluded that one in 20 people experience chronic loneliness in Northern Ireland. The rising prevalence of loneliness amongst both older and younger people continues to be identified in such research and in practice and my Department recognises the impact of loneliness on health and wellbeing.
My Department has taken the following actions.
In July 2020 an initial scoping study was completed across the HSC organisations. This aimed to capture policies, strategies and activities in place to help tackle loneliness from a health and wellbeing perspective. Subsequently the Department established a DOH/HSC Loneliness Forum involving representatives from the 5 Trusts, NISCC, PHA and DOH policy leads. DAERA has also worked with the forum, recognising many older people may experience loneliness living in rural areas.
Through the forum, my Department has proactively supported key initiatives that encourage older people and others to connect in their local communities, such as “chatty cafes” and “chatty benches” in local parks. We have also encouraged Trusts to establish, support and fund local loneliness networks, again in rural areas to provide a more sustainable infrastructure in local communities including rural areas.
More recently we have commissioned NISCC to produce a loneliness learning resource for the social work and social care workforce(s). This is being designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of social workers and social care workers in practice, so that they can intervene at the earliest stage possible and provide support for older people and others who may experience loneliness and social isolation.
The resource will complement other strategic and policy work that the Department is progressing including the Reform of Adult Social Care; social care and social work workforce policy , the Mental Health Strategy and the Domestic and Sexual Abuse Strategy, amongst others.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208395%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392807"}},{"id":"392806","reference":"AQW 8394/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":"2024-05-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in the absence of a loneliness strategy, how he will work with the community and voluntary sector to reach out to people, promote greater social engagement and inclusion, and support opportunities and activities that do so.","answerText":"The voluntary and community sector is diverse and complex and includes many organisations which deliver on key social outcomes with the support of a range of statutory bodies and non-statutory organisations.\n\nMy Department recognises the vital contribution of the sector in representing the interests of people and communities and in promoting societal wellbeing, resilience and inclusion. My Department supports the work of the sector to deliver wellbeing and inclusion outcomes through investment under a range of programmes including community empowerment, housing support, employability, sport, culture and heritage.\n\nMy Department also supports the Joint Forum between government and the voluntary and community sector, a mechanism where the contribution of the sector to tackling cross-cutting issues such as loneliness and social isolation can be highlighted and promoted across government.","answerHtml":"The voluntary and community sector is diverse and complex and includes many organisations which deliver on key social outcomes with the support of a range of statutory bodies and non-statutory organisations.
My Department recognises the vital contribution of the sector in representing the interests of people and communities and in promoting societal wellbeing, resilience and inclusion. My Department supports the work of the sector to deliver wellbeing and inclusion outcomes through investment under a range of programmes including community empowerment, housing support, employability, sport, culture and heritage.
My Department also supports the Joint Forum between government and the voluntary and community sector, a mechanism where the contribution of the sector to tackling cross-cutting issues such as loneliness and social isolation can be highlighted and promoted across government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208394%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392806"}},{"id":"392805","reference":"AQW 8393/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-07","answerBy":"2024-03-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 6163/22-27, and in light of rising expenses and fixed NHS fees that mean dental remuneration does not correlate with the cost to deliver care, how he will ensure fees are set at a level that meet the true cost to deliver modern health service dentistry.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208393%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392805"}},{"id":"392526","reference":"AQW 8287/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what advice his Department provides to local councils in order for them to maximise the amount of money they can raise from buildings such as town halls and civic buildings.","answerText":"My Department does not provide advice to Councils in order for them to maximise the amount of money they can raise from buildings such as town halls and civic buildings. The raising of money from council buildings is an operational matter for District Councils.","answerHtml":"My Department does not provide advice to Councils in order for them to maximise the amount of money they can raise from buildings such as town halls and civic buildings. The raising of money from council buildings is an operational matter for District Councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208287%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392526","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392526"}},{"id":"392525","reference":"AQW 8286/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the intensive physiotherapy options that exist in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) elsewhere for young patients suffering from conditions such as cerebral palsy, with the aim of enabling them to walk.","answerText":"Paediatric Physiotherapy services are available through our local Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) to all such children in Northern Ireland who require assistance to enable them to walk.\n\nRegardless of their presenting condition, these children will have a personalized treatment plan developed to address their specific needs. Plans are created in partnership with the child and their parents or carers, and to achieve the desired outcomes, may require input from other professionals such as Orthotists or Occupational Therapists. The intensity of the service provided will be determined firstly by the initial assessment and then by the progress that the child makes at follow up appointments.\n\nIf the desired outcomes are not achieved despite these interventions, where appropriate, the child can be referred on for further interventions which could include Orthopaedic or Neuro surgery.\n\nThe Neuro surgery, specifically any requirement for a Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy - an operation used to reduce spasticity (muscle stiffness) in cerebral palsy - would be performed in Alder Hey children’s hospital in Liverpool, with follow up care provided back in Northern Ireland as part of a revised treatment plan.","answerHtml":"Paediatric Physiotherapy services are available through our local Health and Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) to all such children in Northern Ireland who require assistance to enable them to walk.
Regardless of their presenting condition, these children will have a personalized treatment plan developed to address their specific needs. Plans are created in partnership with the child and their parents or carers, and to achieve the desired outcomes, may require input from other professionals such as Orthotists or Occupational Therapists. The intensity of the service provided will be determined firstly by the initial assessment and then by the progress that the child makes at follow up appointments.
If the desired outcomes are not achieved despite these interventions, where appropriate, the child can be referred on for further interventions which could include Orthopaedic or Neuro surgery.
The Neuro surgery, specifically any requirement for a Selective Dorsal Rhizotomy - an operation used to reduce spasticity (muscle stiffness) in cerebral palsy - would be performed in Alder Hey children’s hospital in Liverpool, with follow up care provided back in Northern Ireland as part of a revised treatment plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208286%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392525","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392525"}},{"id":"392524","reference":"AQW 8285/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what work his Department has been involved in to determine the cause of the large number of deceased frogs found recently on the beach in the East Strand and Whiterocks area of Portrush.","answerText":"My Department is aware of reports of dead frogs in Portrush area. We have not been involved in any work to determine the cause.\n\nCauseway Coast and Glens Borough Council has investigated this incident but has not sought any assistance from the Department","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of reports of dead frogs in Portrush area. We have not been involved in any work to determine the cause.
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has investigated this incident but has not sought any assistance from the Department
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208285%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392524","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392524"}},{"id":"392523","reference":"AQW 8284/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the process by which councils obtain the power to require a change of planning permission application, when a property changes from being occupied full-time to being occupied on a part-time basis, either as a holiday home or as a short-term let.","answerText":"There are no specific planning regulations or planning policy in place relating to holiday homes or short-term lets in an existing domestic property. Planning permission may be required to use a house, apartment, student accommodation or other premises for a short-term let or holiday home, however this will depend on the extent to which the short-term let or holiday home changes the use and character of the property and the degree to which it impacts on its surroundings.\n\nPlanning applications seeking the change of use of an existing building or for a new build to provide a short term let or self-contained holiday accommodation will normally be determined by the council. Each application will be assessed on its own merits, having regard to the local development plan, regional planning policy, and all other material considerations. The relevance and weight to be given to all material considerations is a matter for the council to decide.","answerHtml":"There are no specific planning regulations or planning policy in place relating to holiday homes or short-term lets in an existing domestic property. Planning permission may be required to use a house, apartment, student accommodation or other premises for a short-term let or holiday home, however this will depend on the extent to which the short-term let or holiday home changes the use and character of the property and the degree to which it impacts on its surroundings.
Planning applications seeking the change of use of an existing building or for a new build to provide a short term let or self-contained holiday accommodation will normally be determined by the council. Each application will be assessed on its own merits, having regard to the local development plan, regional planning policy, and all other material considerations. The relevance and weight to be given to all material considerations is a matter for the council to decide.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208284%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392523","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392523"}},{"id":"392522","reference":"AQW 8283/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-06","answerBy":"2024-03-22","answered":"2024-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 6976/22-27, for her assessment of the trend of prisoners who, while not addicted to drugs prior to being sentenced to HMP Magilligan, become so while serving their sentence.","answerText":"The vast majority of people coming into Magilligan Prison with addiction issues will have developed that within the community. While there is data that indicates some prisoners develop addictions in prison, the indications are this number is in decline.\n\nThe data used to establish these trends is extrapolated from the Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland (CJINI) prisoner survey, which forms part of the inspection process.\n\nIn their report of an unannounced inspection of Magilligan Prison, published in February 2022, in response to the question: ‘Have you developed a problem with illicit drugs since you have been committed to this prison,’ forty-six of the one hundred and forty three respondents indicated yes (32%).\n\nA further prisoner survey was conducted in October 2023. In response to the question: ‘Have you developed a problem with illicit drugs since you have been committed to prison,’ forty-five of the two hundred and nine respondents indicated yes (22%). Fourteen respondents indicated that the issue began while in Magilligan.\n\nThis indicates that any trend of developing an addiction whilst in Magilligan is declining. However Prison Staff are determined to prevent illicit substances from entering the Prison and will continue to work with partners, including the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to tackle abuse of prescription medication, and to support prisoners to address their addictive behaviour.\n\nYou are welcome to visit Magilligan Prison to discuss these issues with the Governor and his team.","answerHtml":"The vast majority of people coming into Magilligan Prison with addiction issues will have developed that within the community. While there is data that indicates some prisoners develop addictions in prison, the indications are this number is in decline.
The data used to establish these trends is extrapolated from the Criminal Justice Inspection Northern Ireland (CJINI) prisoner survey, which forms part of the inspection process.
In their report of an unannounced inspection of Magilligan Prison, published in February 2022, in response to the question: ‘Have you developed a problem with illicit drugs since you have been committed to this prison,’ forty-six of the one hundred and forty three respondents indicated yes (32%).
A further prisoner survey was conducted in October 2023. In response to the question: ‘Have you developed a problem with illicit drugs since you have been committed to prison,’ forty-five of the two hundred and nine respondents indicated yes (22%). Fourteen respondents indicated that the issue began while in Magilligan.
This indicates that any trend of developing an addiction whilst in Magilligan is declining. However Prison Staff are determined to prevent illicit substances from entering the Prison and will continue to work with partners, including the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust to tackle abuse of prescription medication, and to support prisoners to address their addictive behaviour.
You are welcome to visit Magilligan Prison to discuss these issues with the Governor and his team.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208283%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392522"}},{"id":"392282","reference":"AQW 8186/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-05","answerBy":"2024-03-21","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the 2024 Rivers Trust report State of Our Rivers; (ii) to detail the cross-departmental work he has identified as necessary to improve the quality of our waterways; and (iii) to detail the financial and ecological cost of failing to act on the evidence and warnings of the numerous reports and the water-based ecological incidents of recent years.","answerText":"The findings highlighted by the Rivers Trust report were published by NIEA in 2021 as part of the Water Framework Directive Statistics Report, which included the information that no river water bodies in Northern Ireland achieved overall good status. At that time, NIEA explained that this was due to a change in the status reporting to include so-called ‘forever’ chemicals in the assessment.\n\nThe work required is summarised in the draft third River Basin Management Plan for Northern Ireland. Following my consideration and review in light of the challenges posed by the occurrence of blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh, I will bring the Plan to the Executive for consideration in due course.\n\nThe department does not presently hold the data. It is difficult to track data citied but is a matter which my Department is exploring with Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).","answerHtml":"The findings highlighted by the Rivers Trust report were published by NIEA in 2021 as part of the Water Framework Directive Statistics Report, which included the information that no river water bodies in Northern Ireland achieved overall good status. At that time, NIEA explained that this was due to a change in the status reporting to include so-called ‘forever’ chemicals in the assessment.
The work required is summarised in the draft third River Basin Management Plan for Northern Ireland. Following my consideration and review in light of the challenges posed by the occurrence of blue-green algal blooms in Lough Neagh, I will bring the Plan to the Executive for consideration in due course.
The department does not presently hold the data. It is difficult to track data citied but is a matter which my Department is exploring with Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208186%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392282"}},{"id":"392281","reference":"AQW 8185/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-05","answerBy":"2024-03-21","answered":"2024-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 6976/22-27, to detail her assessment of how the presence of illegal drugs is maintained in HMP Magilligan.","answerText":"Regrettably, many people entering our prisons have long-standing issues regarding addictions, with associated engrained drug seeking behaviours.\n\nThese behaviours continue whilst in custody.\n\nThe Independent Review of Progress of Maghaberry and Magilligan Prisons undertaken by the Criminal Justice (NI) Inspectorate and His Majesty’s Chief Inspectorate of Prisons in late 2023 evidenced:\n\n“Medications were the most commonly found substances, indicating a level of success in preventing the ingress of illicit substances from the community.”\n\nAnalysis of Magilligan’s drug test figures for February 2024 further underpins these findings; of 119 prisoners tested, 12 failed - all for the presence of medications not prescribed to that individual.\n\nThis represents a fall of 7 % in failures, from the time of the Independent Review of Progress, and against a higher number of individuals tested. This coupled with the use of X-Ray body scanners and other search aids, which have thwarted efforts to traffic prohibited items, demonstrates the effectiveness of Magilligan’s Drug Strategy in stopping the entry of drugs into the prison.","answerHtml":"Regrettably, many people entering our prisons have long-standing issues regarding addictions, with associated engrained drug seeking behaviours.
These behaviours continue whilst in custody.
The Independent Review of Progress of Maghaberry and Magilligan Prisons undertaken by the Criminal Justice (NI) Inspectorate and His Majesty’s Chief Inspectorate of Prisons in late 2023 evidenced:
“Medications were the most commonly found substances, indicating a level of success in preventing the ingress of illicit substances from the community.”
Analysis of Magilligan’s drug test figures for February 2024 further underpins these findings; of 119 prisoners tested, 12 failed - all for the presence of medications not prescribed to that individual.
This represents a fall of 7 % in failures, from the time of the Independent Review of Progress, and against a higher number of individuals tested. This coupled with the use of X-Ray body scanners and other search aids, which have thwarted efforts to traffic prohibited items, demonstrates the effectiveness of Magilligan’s Drug Strategy in stopping the entry of drugs into the prison.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208185%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392281"}},{"id":"392280","reference":"AQW 8184/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-05","answerBy":"2024-03-21","answered":"2024-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether funding for the perinatal mental health services operational in all Health and Social Care Trusts is ring-fenced for future years.","answerText":"My Department allocated funding in 2021 for the development of Perinatal Mental Health Services in Northern Ireland, which included establishing Community Perinatal Mental Health Teams in each Trust.\n\nThe project has two phases. Phase One prioritised a core staffing model for a Community Team, with phase two providing the enhanced service provision. Funding came from the Department at various stages throughout the year. Phase one of the project is now complete and recurrent funding has been provided to all Trusts at a total cost of £4,186,280.\n\nA number of workshops have been held to look at lessons learned from the Phase 1 implementation and what staffing and additional funding is required for Phase 2.","answerHtml":"My Department allocated funding in 2021 for the development of Perinatal Mental Health Services in Northern Ireland, which included establishing Community Perinatal Mental Health Teams in each Trust.
The project has two phases. Phase One prioritised a core staffing model for a Community Team, with phase two providing the enhanced service provision. Funding came from the Department at various stages throughout the year. Phase one of the project is now complete and recurrent funding has been provided to all Trusts at a total cost of £4,186,280.
A number of workshops have been held to look at lessons learned from the Phase 1 implementation and what staffing and additional funding is required for Phase 2.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208184%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392280"}},{"id":"392279","reference":"AQW 8183/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-05","answerBy":"2024-03-21","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of whether the £267 million Single Application and Map Service and the Entitlements Transfer Service is adequate to cover the needs of the farming sector; and (ii) to detail a comparison between this year’s funding and that of each of the last five years.","answerText":"The UK Government in the 2020 autumn spending review committed to maintain the total funding available to farmers, land managers and rural society in cash terms (measured against previous CAP Pillar I and Pillar II provision from EU funds) in every year of this Parliament, (to 2024/25). This provided ring fenced Resource DEL funding of £315.6m in 2021/22, £312.8m in 2022/23, £327.2m in 2023/24 and £329.4m for 2024/25 in each of the four years. CAP Pillar 1, Direct Payments and Pillar 2 EU allocations to Northern Ireland in 2019 and 2020 EU financial years was £321.6 m and £322.5 m respectively.\n\nFuture provision of funding for agricultural, environmental and rural support will be a matter for the next UK Government but I will certainly be seeking a settlement that reflects our policy objectives and ambitions.","answerHtml":"The UK Government in the 2020 autumn spending review committed to maintain the total funding available to farmers, land managers and rural society in cash terms (measured against previous CAP Pillar I and Pillar II provision from EU funds) in every year of this Parliament, (to 2024/25). This provided ring fenced Resource DEL funding of £315.6m in 2021/22, £312.8m in 2022/23, £327.2m in 2023/24 and £329.4m for 2024/25 in each of the four years. CAP Pillar 1, Direct Payments and Pillar 2 EU allocations to Northern Ireland in 2019 and 2020 EU financial years was £321.6 m and £322.5 m respectively.
Future provision of funding for agricultural, environmental and rural support will be a matter for the next UK Government but I will certainly be seeking a settlement that reflects our policy objectives and ambitions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208183%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392279"}},{"id":"392278","reference":"AQW 8182/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-05","answerBy":"2024-03-21","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the support and funding which is provided by his Department to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.","answerText":"My Department does not provide any funding to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.","answerHtml":"My Department does not provide any funding to the Royal National Lifeboat Institution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208182%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392278"}},{"id":"392009","reference":"AQW 8050/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-04","answerBy":"2024-03-20","answered":"2024-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of whether the introduction of bovine electronic identification will help with the prevention and prosecution of livestock theft; (ii) whether this system can be used with other species of livestock in future; and (iii) what other ways of preventing and prosecuting for livestock thefts are being explored.","answerText":"Although not currently in use, the Department may consider the introduction of bovine electronic identification at some point in the future. While bovine electronic identification can deliver many benefits, including a reduction in paperwork and direct animal contact, it is not designed to specifically assist with the prevention and prosecution of livestock theft.\n\nSince 2010, electronic identification has been required for sheep and goats, however, there are currently no plans to roll this out to any further livestock species.\n\nThe Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is responsible for enforcing legislation in relation to the theft of livestock. My Department will continue to cooperate with the PSNI in respect of any relevant investigations of livestock theft, as necessary.","answerHtml":"Although not currently in use, the Department may consider the introduction of bovine electronic identification at some point in the future. While bovine electronic identification can deliver many benefits, including a reduction in paperwork and direct animal contact, it is not designed to specifically assist with the prevention and prosecution of livestock theft.
Since 2010, electronic identification has been required for sheep and goats, however, there are currently no plans to roll this out to any further livestock species.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is responsible for enforcing legislation in relation to the theft of livestock. My Department will continue to cooperate with the PSNI in respect of any relevant investigations of livestock theft, as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208050%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392009"}},{"id":"392008","reference":"AQW 8049/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-04","answerBy":"2024-03-20","answered":"2024-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how his Department will increase funding to the community and voluntary sector to enable it to return to pre-pandemic and pre-cost-of-living-crisis levels of service; and (ii) for his assessment of how investment in this sector by his Department saves Executive departments' money at rates beyond the funding provided, by supporting or filling gaps in public services.","answerText":"The voluntary and community sector is diverse and complex and organisations receive funding from across a range of statutory bodies and non-statutory organisations. My department has heard consistently from sector leaders in recent months that operating conditions are difficult and that the cost-of-living crisis is affecting the sustainability of services.\n\nFor those organisations that my department funds, no cuts to community and voluntary sector grants were made as part of last year’s budget exercise and my department has previously provided funding uplifts to support costs associated with increased inflation, with some potential to provide similar support before the end of this financial year.\n\nPublic consultation has recently ended on policy proposals from my department for future support for the Sector, setting out a commitment to continued investment in core sectoral infrastructure. Following consideration of responses, I will bring forward proposals for future investment in sectoral infrastructure, alongside commitments to fair and sustainable funding approaches and sustained investment in the voluntary and community sector.\n\nI cannot make an evidence-based assessment of how investment in the voluntary and community sector saves money across the Executive, however I appreciate that all government departments currently benefit from the work of the Sector, in terms of the design and delivery of public services and through advocacy across a very wide range of policy interests.","answerHtml":"The voluntary and community sector is diverse and complex and organisations receive funding from across a range of statutory bodies and non-statutory organisations. My department has heard consistently from sector leaders in recent months that operating conditions are difficult and that the cost-of-living crisis is affecting the sustainability of services.
For those organisations that my department funds, no cuts to community and voluntary sector grants were made as part of last year’s budget exercise and my department has previously provided funding uplifts to support costs associated with increased inflation, with some potential to provide similar support before the end of this financial year.
Public consultation has recently ended on policy proposals from my department for future support for the Sector, setting out a commitment to continued investment in core sectoral infrastructure. Following consideration of responses, I will bring forward proposals for future investment in sectoral infrastructure, alongside commitments to fair and sustainable funding approaches and sustained investment in the voluntary and community sector.
I cannot make an evidence-based assessment of how investment in the voluntary and community sector saves money across the Executive, however I appreciate that all government departments currently benefit from the work of the Sector, in terms of the design and delivery of public services and through advocacy across a very wide range of policy interests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208049%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392008","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392008"}},{"id":"392007","reference":"AQW 8048/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-04","answerBy":"2024-03-20","answered":"2024-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any conversations he has had with the new chair of Invest NI in relation to (i) opportunities; and (ii) proposals that exist in East Londonderry for investment and economic growth, supported by Invest NI.","answerText":"I have had several discussions with John Healy OBE, the new Chair of Invest NI, about how my priority of a regionally balanced economy will be delivered. Invest NI will have a particularly important role in achieving this, and I have tasked the Chair with ensuring that the organisation increases its focus and resources at a sub-regional level.","answerHtml":"I have had several discussions with John Healy OBE, the new Chair of Invest NI, about how my priority of a regionally balanced economy will be delivered. Invest NI will have a particularly important role in achieving this, and I have tasked the Chair with ensuring that the organisation increases its focus and resources at a sub-regional level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208048%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392007","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392007"}},{"id":"392006","reference":"AQW 8047/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-04","answerBy":"2024-03-20","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any research that has been commissioned into assessing the number of higher education students that could be eligible for the additional support for those facing financial hardship; and (ii) whether this funding will be sufficient to support all those eligible and in need.","answerText":"Additional student support funding of £1m was allocated following the receipt of updated forecast demand analysis undertaken by the higher education institutions. Demand will continue to be monitored.","answerHtml":"Additional student support funding of £1m was allocated following the receipt of updated forecast demand analysis undertaken by the higher education institutions. Demand will continue to be monitored.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208047%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392006"}},{"id":"392005","reference":"AQW 8046/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-04","answerBy":"2024-03-20","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail the rules regarding the movement of cattle from Great Britain to Northern Ireland; and (ii) for his assessment of these rules.","answerText":"Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/692 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (Animal Health Law) and Regulation 2017/625 (Official Controls Regulation), which apply in Northern Ireland (NI) by virtue of their listing in Annex 2 of the Windsor Framework, sets out the rules for the movement of cattle between Great Britain (GB) and NI.\n\nThe rules vary depending on the reason for movement (Breeding & Production (B&P) or Direct Slaughter (DS)) but in summary include:\n\nPre movement Requirements.\n\nDisease Freedom, e.g. Bovine TB.\n\nGB level residency - DS 3 months, B&P 6 months.\n\nGB Establishment level residency – 40 days.\n\nAge – Born after 14 Feb 2015.\n\nthe animals must be pre-notified to the NI port of entry at least 24 hours in advance via a CHED-A electronic notification on TRACES NT\n\nMovement Requirements.\n\nDuring movement the animals must be accompanied by the relevant Export Health Certificate and be presented to the SPS Inspection facility for documentary, identity, physical and welfare checks.\n\nPost Movement Requirements.\n\nRe-identification if applicable (not required for DS moves).\n\n30-day restriction at destination (not required for DS moves).\n\nIn October 2021, the EU Commission amended Regulation (EU) 2020/692 providing a derogation enabling NI cattle return directly from approved shows and sales in GB without needing to fulfil the six-month residency period.\n\nPlease note that due to the ongoing outbreak of Bluetongue in GB, movement of cattle and other ruminants from GB to NI is currently suspended.\n\nThe Windsor Framework is an international agreement between UK Government and the European Union. Any change to the agreement or to the applicability of Animal Health Law, Official Controls Regulation and supplementing legislation in NI is a matter for the UK Government and the European Union.","answerHtml":"Commission Delegated Regulation (EU) 2020/692 supplementing Regulation (EU) 2016/429 (Animal Health Law) and Regulation 2017/625 (Official Controls Regulation), which apply in Northern Ireland (NI) by virtue of their listing in Annex 2 of the Windsor Framework, sets out the rules for the movement of cattle between Great Britain (GB) and NI.
The rules vary depending on the reason for movement (Breeding & Production (B&P) or Direct Slaughter (DS)) but in summary include:
Pre movement Requirements.
Disease Freedom, e.g. Bovine TB.
GB level residency - DS 3 months, B&P 6 months.
GB Establishment level residency – 40 days.
Age – Born after 14 Feb 2015.
the animals must be pre-notified to the NI port of entry at least 24 hours in advance via a CHED-A electronic notification on TRACES NT
Movement Requirements.
During movement the animals must be accompanied by the relevant Export Health Certificate and be presented to the SPS Inspection facility for documentary, identity, physical and welfare checks.
Post Movement Requirements.
Re-identification if applicable (not required for DS moves).
30-day restriction at destination (not required for DS moves).
In October 2021, the EU Commission amended Regulation (EU) 2020/692 providing a derogation enabling NI cattle return directly from approved shows and sales in GB without needing to fulfil the six-month residency period.
Please note that due to the ongoing outbreak of Bluetongue in GB, movement of cattle and other ruminants from GB to NI is currently suspended.
The Windsor Framework is an international agreement between UK Government and the European Union. Any change to the agreement or to the applicability of Animal Health Law, Official Controls Regulation and supplementing legislation in NI is a matter for the UK Government and the European Union.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208046%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=392005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=392005"}},{"id":"391679","reference":"AQW 7939/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-01","answerBy":"2024-03-19","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to introduce sub-24-week pregnancy and baby-loss certificates to parents, similar to the system in the rest of the United Kingdom.","answerText":"I recognise the impact that pregnancy loss at any stage can have on parents and welcome the recent introduction of pre-24-week pregnancy loss certificates in England, as recommended by the Independent Pregnancy Loss Review commissioned by the Westminster Government.\n\nMy Department will continue to engage with their counterparts in the Department of Health and Social Care in England as the new system is embedded there, with a view to understanding whether it might be possible to implement such a scheme in Northern Ireland, including any associated costs.","answerHtml":"I recognise the impact that pregnancy loss at any stage can have on parents and welcome the recent introduction of pre-24-week pregnancy loss certificates in England, as recommended by the Independent Pregnancy Loss Review commissioned by the Westminster Government.
My Department will continue to engage with their counterparts in the Department of Health and Social Care in England as the new system is embedded there, with a view to understanding whether it might be possible to implement such a scheme in Northern Ireland, including any associated costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207939%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391679"}},{"id":"391678","reference":"AQW 7938/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-01","answerBy":"2024-03-19","answered":"2024-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) what work she is planning to carry out to protect children from being exploited by criminal and drug-dealing gangs, for instance, when they have drug debts; and (ii) what work she will do with other departments in order to protect children from being exploited by these gangs.","answerText":"Those who seek to exploit children in this way commit child abuse. The prevention of, and protection from, child criminal exploitation is a complex matter requiring input from a range of statutory and non-statutory partners. It requires a strong multi-agency approach if we are to successfully tackle this heinous crime and protect children.\n\nThe Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) has been at the forefront in Northern Ireland of developing evidence-based understanding and service provision for young people at risk of, and experiencing, child criminal exploitation. It has developed into a coherent proposition involving direct service provision to young people, multi-agency initiatives, and development of initiatives to enable the wider system to support young people at the risk of harm from paramilitary groups. Details of some of the key projects have been provided in AQW 6852/22-27.\n\nThe Child Protection Senior Officials Group (CPSOG) provides cross-Departmental strategic direction on existing and emerging child protection issues. CPSOG is chaired by the Department of Health and the Department of Justice is a core member of the Group. In 2023, CPSOG agreed a two-year action plan to address child criminal exploitation (CCE) in NI. This cross-Departmental work, jointly led by Departments of Justice and Health, builds on the work of EPPOC to create a system wide response to child exploitation, including exploitation from criminal and drug dealing gangs. The ultimate aim is to improve the wellbeing of children and young people experiencing or at risk of criminal exploitation and to improve their longer-term life chances.\n\nThe Department’s Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Branch has engaged on issues concerning child exploitation in the development of the draft three-year Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Strategy, including commitments and actions around developing operational responses to child exploitation and ensuring appropriate support is available to victims. The Strategy will be published shortly.","answerHtml":"Those who seek to exploit children in this way commit child abuse. The prevention of, and protection from, child criminal exploitation is a complex matter requiring input from a range of statutory and non-statutory partners. It requires a strong multi-agency approach if we are to successfully tackle this heinous crime and protect children.
The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) has been at the forefront in Northern Ireland of developing evidence-based understanding and service provision for young people at risk of, and experiencing, child criminal exploitation. It has developed into a coherent proposition involving direct service provision to young people, multi-agency initiatives, and development of initiatives to enable the wider system to support young people at the risk of harm from paramilitary groups. Details of some of the key projects have been provided in AQW 6852/22-27.
The Child Protection Senior Officials Group (CPSOG) provides cross-Departmental strategic direction on existing and emerging child protection issues. CPSOG is chaired by the Department of Health and the Department of Justice is a core member of the Group. In 2023, CPSOG agreed a two-year action plan to address child criminal exploitation (CCE) in NI. This cross-Departmental work, jointly led by Departments of Justice and Health, builds on the work of EPPOC to create a system wide response to child exploitation, including exploitation from criminal and drug dealing gangs. The ultimate aim is to improve the wellbeing of children and young people experiencing or at risk of criminal exploitation and to improve their longer-term life chances.
The Department’s Modern Slavery, Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Branch has engaged on issues concerning child exploitation in the development of the draft three-year Modern Slavery and Human Trafficking Strategy, including commitments and actions around developing operational responses to child exploitation and ensuring appropriate support is available to victims. The Strategy will be published shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207938%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391678"}},{"id":"391677","reference":"AQW 7937/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-01","answerBy":"2024-03-19","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a timeline of when childcare providers will be provided with financial support to fully address the needs of parents prior to the end of this financial year.","answerText":"I am aware of the significant financial strain on both families and childcare providers and the calls to urgently put in place support due to cost increases from 1 April. Options are currently being scoped, however, any scheme(s) we put in place must be based on a robust business case assessment, provide value for money, be targeted to achieve the outcomes required and have appropriate governance and accountability mechanisms built in. It is also necessary to consider the potential impact of a bespoke childcare intervention on other sectors. My officials are engaging with their counterparts in other departments on these issues.\n\nI have bid for funding to enable me to take forward short-term actions in the 2024/25 financial year. I will work with my Executive colleagues on this but progress will ultimately depend on the funds being made available to my department.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the significant financial strain on both families and childcare providers and the calls to urgently put in place support due to cost increases from 1 April. Options are currently being scoped, however, any scheme(s) we put in place must be based on a robust business case assessment, provide value for money, be targeted to achieve the outcomes required and have appropriate governance and accountability mechanisms built in. It is also necessary to consider the potential impact of a bespoke childcare intervention on other sectors. My officials are engaging with their counterparts in other departments on these issues.
I have bid for funding to enable me to take forward short-term actions in the 2024/25 financial year. I will work with my Executive colleagues on this but progress will ultimately depend on the funds being made available to my department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207937%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391677"}},{"id":"391676","reference":"AQW 7936/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-01","answerBy":"2024-03-19","answered":"2024-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he will ensure that children with special educational needs, and their family, are provided with the same educational opportunities as any other child and family.","answerText":"The challenges faced by children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) and their families as they try to navigate a complex system in order to access support are well rehearsed. The various reports since 2017 and the numerous recommendations for change, point to the failings within the SEN system in its current form.\n\nThere is a clear requirement for transformation of our education system that will ensure high quality, child centred and sustainable SEN support and the End-to-End (E2E) Review of SEN has been established to bring forward early actions as well as longer term actions for systemic reform that will lead to improved outcomes for children and young people with SEN.\n\nMy department’s vision is that EVERY CHILD is happy, learning and succeeding and this is no different for those children and young people with SEN. I am committed to securing support from my Executive colleagues for any additional investment that is required to ensure that children with SEN get the right support, delivered by the right people, at the right time and in the right place.","answerHtml":"The challenges faced by children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) and their families as they try to navigate a complex system in order to access support are well rehearsed. The various reports since 2017 and the numerous recommendations for change, point to the failings within the SEN system in its current form.
There is a clear requirement for transformation of our education system that will ensure high quality, child centred and sustainable SEN support and the End-to-End (E2E) Review of SEN has been established to bring forward early actions as well as longer term actions for systemic reform that will lead to improved outcomes for children and young people with SEN.
My department’s vision is that EVERY CHILD is happy, learning and succeeding and this is no different for those children and young people with SEN. I am committed to securing support from my Executive colleagues for any additional investment that is required to ensure that children with SEN get the right support, delivered by the right people, at the right time and in the right place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207936%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391676"}},{"id":"391675","reference":"AQW 7935/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-03-01","answerBy":"2024-03-19","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the cross-departmental work that he will facilitate between the Mental Health Champion and Executive departments to ensure staff and their service users are supported with their mental health.","answerText":"As outlined in the Terms of Reference for the Mental Health Champion (MHC), there is Executive wide support for the role. In particular, the MHC is a Government advocate to help and support all NI Departments and officials, acting as a positive conduit between Government and mental health service delivery. The MHC exercises her role in an independent manner, free from direction by the Department.\n\nThe MHC has recently written to the Health and Education Committees to request an opportunity to brief them on the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy and her priorities for Health and Education. She has also requested meetings with each newly appointed Minister to discuss her role and how she can support each Department. In addition, the MHC has written a letter to the NI Executive in which she sets out her priorities for addressing mental ill health throughout NI.\n\nI am highly supportive of the MHC’s mission to improve the mental health of the people in NI and have planned to meet her in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"As outlined in the Terms of Reference for the Mental Health Champion (MHC), there is Executive wide support for the role. In particular, the MHC is a Government advocate to help and support all NI Departments and officials, acting as a positive conduit between Government and mental health service delivery. The MHC exercises her role in an independent manner, free from direction by the Department.
The MHC has recently written to the Health and Education Committees to request an opportunity to brief them on the implementation of the Mental Health Strategy and her priorities for Health and Education. She has also requested meetings with each newly appointed Minister to discuss her role and how she can support each Department. In addition, the MHC has written a letter to the NI Executive in which she sets out her priorities for addressing mental ill health throughout NI.
I am highly supportive of the MHC’s mission to improve the mental health of the people in NI and have planned to meet her in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207935%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391675"}},{"id":"391371","reference":"AQW 7839/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-15","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will implement the GPP NI 2030 strategy without the review and revaluation of the remuneration that community pharmacies receive from his Department.","answerText":"Following positive evaluation of the benefits of the current general practice pharmacist (GPP) service, the publication of “GPP NI 2030 – A strategy for general practice pharmacy in Northern Ireland” sets out ambitious plans for future development of the sector.\n\nThe “GPP NI 2030” strategy outlines how general practice pharmacists can contribute fully to optimising the health outcomes of the population as clinical leads for medicines within the general practice team. It also sets out an ambition to develop and expand the workforce through the introduction of new advanced pharmacist practitioner roles, which will allow general practice pharmacists to enhance their clinical skills and expertise with greater benefit to patient care.\n\nRealising the vision set out in “GPP NI 2030” will require collaborative working and new innovative approaches to the planning and delivery of general practice services, and additional investment to stabilise and develop service capacity and capability is needed to realise the full potential of the general practice pharmacy workforce.\n\nMy Department is committed to working with the sector to progress the recommendations outlined in “GPP NI 2030” over the coming months and years, however it is not possible to fund full implementation from within the Department’s existing resources and so delivery is dependent on securing the additional resources required.","answerHtml":"Following positive evaluation of the benefits of the current general practice pharmacist (GPP) service, the publication of “GPP NI 2030 – A strategy for general practice pharmacy in Northern Ireland” sets out ambitious plans for future development of the sector.
The “GPP NI 2030” strategy outlines how general practice pharmacists can contribute fully to optimising the health outcomes of the population as clinical leads for medicines within the general practice team. It also sets out an ambition to develop and expand the workforce through the introduction of new advanced pharmacist practitioner roles, which will allow general practice pharmacists to enhance their clinical skills and expertise with greater benefit to patient care.
Realising the vision set out in “GPP NI 2030” will require collaborative working and new innovative approaches to the planning and delivery of general practice services, and additional investment to stabilise and develop service capacity and capability is needed to realise the full potential of the general practice pharmacy workforce.
My Department is committed to working with the sector to progress the recommendations outlined in “GPP NI 2030” over the coming months and years, however it is not possible to fund full implementation from within the Department’s existing resources and so delivery is dependent on securing the additional resources required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207839%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391371","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391371"}},{"id":"391370","reference":"AQW 7838/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-15","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the process by which his Department will implement the ban on live animal exports.","answerText":"The Department has followed the progression of the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill throughout all its stages; however, this bill is not applicable in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe welfare of animals during transport is a devolved matter and due to differences in our legal framework we will not be seeking to extend this bill to Northern Ireland.\n\nMy department will, however, remain focussed on ensuring that exports of live animals, when they take place, adhere to all regulatory requirements and animal welfare protections.","answerHtml":"The Department has followed the progression of the Animal Welfare (Livestock Exports) Bill throughout all its stages; however, this bill is not applicable in Northern Ireland.
The welfare of animals during transport is a devolved matter and due to differences in our legal framework we will not be seeking to extend this bill to Northern Ireland.
My department will, however, remain focussed on ensuring that exports of live animals, when they take place, adhere to all regulatory requirements and animal welfare protections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207838%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391370"}},{"id":"391369","reference":"AQW 7837/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-15","answered":"2024-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the legal process for north coast tourism businesses, with particular regard to water-based businesses, to claim compensation when toxic algal blooms prevent their businesses from operating.","answerText":"My Department has no legal process for businesses to claim compensation when impacted by blue green algae.","answerHtml":"My Department has no legal process for businesses to claim compensation when impacted by blue green algae.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207837%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391369"}},{"id":"391368","reference":"AQW 7836/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-15","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail treatment options for both adults and children who suffer from hydrocephalus.","answerText":"Hydrocephalus is treated through the surgical implantation of a shunt or by an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) procedure. The procedures are available for adults at Royal Victoria Hospital and for children at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.","answerHtml":"Hydrocephalus is treated through the surgical implantation of a shunt or by an endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) procedure. The procedures are available for adults at Royal Victoria Hospital and for children at Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207836%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391368"}},{"id":"391367","reference":"AQW 7835/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-15","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his Department's progress to create more specialist surgery hubs.","answerText":"Dedicated capacity for elective surgery has been enhanced through continued development of elective care centres across Northern Ireland.\n\nDay Procedure Centres are operational at Lagan Valley Hospital and Omagh Hospital supporting a range of surgical specialties. We have three Elective Overnight Stay Centres at the Mater Hospital, South West Acute Hospital and Daisy Hill Hospital for intermediate complexity surgery that may require an overnight stay in hospital. In addition, there are cataracts centres at Downe, South Tyrone and Mid Ulster Hospitals and an orthopaedic hub at Musgrave Park Hospital which includes the Duke of Connaught Unit, a dedicated orthopaedic Day Procedure Centre.\n\nConsiderable progress has been made through the development of dedicated elective care centres with positive impacts on waiting times. Ongoing work in these centres will be closely monitored to ensure continued progress on delivery of the intended objectives.\n\nContinued development of dedicated elective care centres will be considered in the wider context of ongoing transformation of elective care services across the HSC system and will be subject to availability of sustainable funding. In the meantime, we continue to ensure that the HSC is making best use of the resources currently available to provide maximum benefit for patients, whilst ensuring high quality, effective and efficient, value for money services.","answerHtml":"Dedicated capacity for elective surgery has been enhanced through continued development of elective care centres across Northern Ireland.
Day Procedure Centres are operational at Lagan Valley Hospital and Omagh Hospital supporting a range of surgical specialties. We have three Elective Overnight Stay Centres at the Mater Hospital, South West Acute Hospital and Daisy Hill Hospital for intermediate complexity surgery that may require an overnight stay in hospital. In addition, there are cataracts centres at Downe, South Tyrone and Mid Ulster Hospitals and an orthopaedic hub at Musgrave Park Hospital which includes the Duke of Connaught Unit, a dedicated orthopaedic Day Procedure Centre.
Considerable progress has been made through the development of dedicated elective care centres with positive impacts on waiting times. Ongoing work in these centres will be closely monitored to ensure continued progress on delivery of the intended objectives.
Continued development of dedicated elective care centres will be considered in the wider context of ongoing transformation of elective care services across the HSC system and will be subject to availability of sustainable funding. In the meantime, we continue to ensure that the HSC is making best use of the resources currently available to provide maximum benefit for patients, whilst ensuring high quality, effective and efficient, value for money services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207835%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391367"}},{"id":"391440","reference":"AQO 140/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-29","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline her plans to reintroduce a drug-free wing in Magilligan Prison.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"Many people come into our prisons with long-established addictions from years of drug use in the community. That results in the Prison Service, along with its partners in the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, investing heavily in supporting, and, indeed, in challenging, those people to address their addictions, which, all too often, are central to their offending behaviour. As part of that approach, Magilligan operates two units in the prison whose entry criteria require an individual to be drug-free or to be engaging in programmes that support recovery from addiction. Those supportive environments help reduce demand while promoting the individual's self-esteem, family contact, release planning and throughcare with key partners in the community. The individual units provide 88 beds, and, against a backdrop of a significantly increasing prison population, there are no plans to expand provision in Magilligan at this time."},{"speaker":"Madam Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"Claire, you have time for a quick supplementary question."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you for your answer, Minister. I appreciate that there are people who enter prison with a drug problem, but an awful lot come out with a drug problem. Is enough being done to address the use of illicit drugs in prison?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"It is clear, if you look at the interim review report, that, although a lot of progress has been made — indeed, a new drugs response strategy has been implemented and embedded in Magilligan — there is still much work to do."},{"speaker":"Madam Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. We now move on to 15 minutes of topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20140%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391440","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-03-11&docID=392360#AQO%20140/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391440"}},{"id":"391107","reference":"AQW 7718/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-28","answerBy":"2024-03-14","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether there is any proposal to review the process in cases where there is a lengthy ongoing planning application, with multiple periodic changes involving notifications to neighbours and objectors, who must then repeatedly respond.","answerText":"The two-tier planning system established in 2015 transferred responsibility for processing the majority of planning applications to local government. Although my department has an oversight role in respect of the planning system and reports on system activity and performance, it does not interfere with councils’ rights and responsibilities in terms of the processing of planning applications.\n\nApplicants often seek to amend development proposals prior to their determination, and it is for planning authorities to consider if such changes can be accommodated. Equally, the Planning Act requires that in determining any application for planning permission a council or the Department must take into account representations relating to that application which are received by it.\n\nI remain committed to ensuring that our planning system continues to work in an efficient and effective way and intend to take some time to review the progress that has been made to date. Progress is however dependent on the resources available to key areas of the system.","answerHtml":"The two-tier planning system established in 2015 transferred responsibility for processing the majority of planning applications to local government. Although my department has an oversight role in respect of the planning system and reports on system activity and performance, it does not interfere with councils’ rights and responsibilities in terms of the processing of planning applications.
Applicants often seek to amend development proposals prior to their determination, and it is for planning authorities to consider if such changes can be accommodated. Equally, the Planning Act requires that in determining any application for planning permission a council or the Department must take into account representations relating to that application which are received by it.
I remain committed to ensuring that our planning system continues to work in an efficient and effective way and intend to take some time to review the progress that has been made to date. Progress is however dependent on the resources available to key areas of the system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207718%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391107","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391107"}},{"id":"391106","reference":"AQW 7717/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-28","answerBy":"2024-03-14","answered":"2024-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) what consideration has been given to setting out a three year budget from 2024; and (ii) to detail any issues preventing this.","answerText":"It is not possible to set a three year budget because 2024-25 is the last year of the current Spending Review period. The Executive does not have a budget allocation beyond this period.\n\nIn these circumstances, setting a multi-year budget would not comply with Section 64 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 which states that:\n\n1A - At least 14 days before laying a draft budget for a financial year, the Minister of Finance and Personnel must lay before the Assembly a statement specifying the amount of UK funding for that year notified to the Minister by the Secretary of State.\n\n1B - At the same time as laying a draft budget for a financial year, the Minister of Finance and Personnel must lay before the Assembly a statement showing that the amount of UK funding required by the draft budget does not exceed the amount specified under subsection (1A) for that year.","answerHtml":"It is not possible to set a three year budget because 2024-25 is the last year of the current Spending Review period. The Executive does not have a budget allocation beyond this period.
In these circumstances, setting a multi-year budget would not comply with Section 64 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 which states that:
1A - At least 14 days before laying a draft budget for a financial year, the Minister of Finance and Personnel must lay before the Assembly a statement specifying the amount of UK funding for that year notified to the Minister by the Secretary of State.
1B - At the same time as laying a draft budget for a financial year, the Minister of Finance and Personnel must lay before the Assembly a statement showing that the amount of UK funding required by the draft budget does not exceed the amount specified under subsection (1A) for that year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207717%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391106","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391106"}},{"id":"391105","reference":"AQW 7716/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-28","answerBy":"2024-03-14","answered":"2024-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail the number of dog attacks on sheep in each of the last five years; and (ii) what steps he will take to prevent these.","answerText":"My Department does not hold the data you have asked for, this information is held by local councils. The request has therefore been passed to them to provide a response to you directly.\n\nThe Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 provides local councils with significant powers to investigate and prosecute all incidents of dog attacks, My Department has also published guidance for dog owners and landowners in relation to livestock worrying on the DAERA website and it continues to take every opportunity to stress the need for owners to exert proper control over their dogs.\n\nI take the matter of livestock worrying very seriously and my Department encourages farmers to report all incidences of livestock worrying to their local council dog wardens who are responsible for investigating them.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold the data you have asked for, this information is held by local councils. The request has therefore been passed to them to provide a response to you directly.
The Dogs (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 provides local councils with significant powers to investigate and prosecute all incidents of dog attacks, My Department has also published guidance for dog owners and landowners in relation to livestock worrying on the DAERA website and it continues to take every opportunity to stress the need for owners to exert proper control over their dogs.
I take the matter of livestock worrying very seriously and my Department encourages farmers to report all incidences of livestock worrying to their local council dog wardens who are responsible for investigating them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207716%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391105","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391105"}},{"id":"391104","reference":"AQW 7715/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-28","answerBy":"2024-03-14","answered":"2024-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) what steps he will take to encourage employers to hire people with disabilities; and (ii) how he will better support those with disabilities in securing work.","answerText":"I am keen to ensure all people in our society are given equal opportunity to use the skills they have and obtain good jobs.\n\nMy department provides several programmes to support people with disabilities to access employment or access training which will help them secure employment. For instance, the Disability Support Service helps those with disabilities participate in the vocational training programmes Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI. Skills for Life and Work also has an extended age eligibility for young people with a disability while a disability supplement is payable to allow training suppliers to provide additional support to apprentices participating on the ApprenticeshipsNI programme.\n\nSeparately, the Disability Access to Education and Employment programme (DARE) is a strand of the Department’s Step Up project which offers support to those with a disability to progress into work. It also encourages employers to review their policies to ensure that these are effective in recruiting people with disabilities.\n\nWithin Further Education Colleges the Additional Support Fund helps provide the necessary additional technical and/or personal support required to allow students with learning difficulties or disabilities to participate in mainstream Further Education courses or in discrete programmes.","answerHtml":"I am keen to ensure all people in our society are given equal opportunity to use the skills they have and obtain good jobs.
My department provides several programmes to support people with disabilities to access employment or access training which will help them secure employment. For instance, the Disability Support Service helps those with disabilities participate in the vocational training programmes Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI. Skills for Life and Work also has an extended age eligibility for young people with a disability while a disability supplement is payable to allow training suppliers to provide additional support to apprentices participating on the ApprenticeshipsNI programme.
Separately, the Disability Access to Education and Employment programme (DARE) is a strand of the Department’s Step Up project which offers support to those with a disability to progress into work. It also encourages employers to review their policies to ensure that these are effective in recruiting people with disabilities.
Within Further Education Colleges the Additional Support Fund helps provide the necessary additional technical and/or personal support required to allow students with learning difficulties or disabilities to participate in mainstream Further Education courses or in discrete programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207715%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391104","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391104"}},{"id":"391103","reference":"AQW 7714/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-28","answerBy":"2024-03-14","answered":"2024-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the difficulties being faced by farmers in relation to the Northern Ireland Food Animal Information System; and (ii) what steps he will take to improve this.","answerText":"The latest stage of NIFAIS went live on 4th September 2023, for bovine functionality. Alongside this software release DAERA introduced changes around how access to individual herds was managed. This caused frustration for some farmers and agents who could previously access a specific herd but now could not. This change was implemented to comply with GDPR requirements and was not linked to NIFAIS software. Communications have been issued to advise farmers, and agents, how access to herd information online can be granted.\n\nWhilst NIFAIS did initially have some performance issues the main cause of these issues was identified as an NICS infrastructure issue and was fixed.\n\nOn a weekly basis, approximately 8500 bovine animals move to markets and 9500 bovine animals move to abattoirs across Northern Ireland. All these moves are created or recorded on NIFAIS which operates continually on a 24/7 basis.\n\nMy NIFAIS team is in constant contact with all external stakeholder groups to make system improvements where required. Farmers having issues with NIFAIS know to contact their local DAERA Direct Office, where help will be provided, or the issue will be escalated to the NIFAIS team if necessary.","answerHtml":"The latest stage of NIFAIS went live on 4th September 2023, for bovine functionality. Alongside this software release DAERA introduced changes around how access to individual herds was managed. This caused frustration for some farmers and agents who could previously access a specific herd but now could not. This change was implemented to comply with GDPR requirements and was not linked to NIFAIS software. Communications have been issued to advise farmers, and agents, how access to herd information online can be granted.
Whilst NIFAIS did initially have some performance issues the main cause of these issues was identified as an NICS infrastructure issue and was fixed.
On a weekly basis, approximately 8500 bovine animals move to markets and 9500 bovine animals move to abattoirs across Northern Ireland. All these moves are created or recorded on NIFAIS which operates continually on a 24/7 basis.
My NIFAIS team is in constant contact with all external stakeholder groups to make system improvements where required. Farmers having issues with NIFAIS know to contact their local DAERA Direct Office, where help will be provided, or the issue will be escalated to the NIFAIS team if necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207714%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=391103","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=391103"}},{"id":"390906","reference":"AQW 7626/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-27","answerBy":"2024-03-13","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what financial support his Department can provide to establish multi-use games areas in the north coast area, including, Castlerock, Portrush, Limavady and Dungiven.","answerText":"My Department has previously provided approximately £144,000 part-funding to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council as part of the COVID Recovery Small Settlement Scheme. This funding was used to establish a number of multi-use games areas in the North Coast villages of Dernaflaw, Dervock and Magilligan and are expected to be completed within the coming months.\n\nThis initiative was developed in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure, along with local councils including Causeway Coast and Glens, to provide a Recovery Plan designed to support smaller settlement, with populations under 5000 to recover from the impact of the pandemic and address regeneration needs.\n\nAt this time there no current programmes within my Department to provide support to establish further multi-use games areas in the north coast area.\n\nAny support which may be available from Sport NI, my Department’s arm’s length body which provides support for the sports sector, would be an operational matter. As such, I would advise that you should seek this information directly from Sport NI and direct your question to Richard Archibald, Interim Chief Executive Officer at assemblybusiness@sport.net.","answerHtml":"My Department has previously provided approximately £144,000 part-funding to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council as part of the COVID Recovery Small Settlement Scheme. This funding was used to establish a number of multi-use games areas in the North Coast villages of Dernaflaw, Dervock and Magilligan and are expected to be completed within the coming months.
This initiative was developed in collaboration with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure, along with local councils including Causeway Coast and Glens, to provide a Recovery Plan designed to support smaller settlement, with populations under 5000 to recover from the impact of the pandemic and address regeneration needs.
At this time there no current programmes within my Department to provide support to establish further multi-use games areas in the north coast area.
Any support which may be available from Sport NI, my Department’s arm’s length body which provides support for the sports sector, would be an operational matter. As such, I would advise that you should seek this information directly from Sport NI and direct your question to Richard Archibald, Interim Chief Executive Officer at assemblybusiness@sport.net.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207626%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390906","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390906"}},{"id":"390905","reference":"AQW 7625/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-27","answerBy":"2024-03-13","answered":"2024-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the impact of the Electronic Travel Authorisation on tourism to Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail any steps he has taken to mitigate any issues regarding this.","answerText":"I have strong concerns around the British Government’s introduction of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme and its potential impact as a disincentive to tourists. I’m aware these concerns are shared by many within our local tourism industry, including businesses on the North Coast.Tourism is a key priority for me, and I will meet with the NI Tourism Alliance in the very near future to discuss this vital issue and to hear at first hand the industry’s concerns. Following these discussions, I will lobby hard with the British Home Office Minister for Legal Migration to raise my strong concerns and urge consideration of an ETA exemption package of short-term mitigations for tourists travelling to the North.","answerHtml":"I have strong concerns around the British Government’s introduction of its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) Scheme and its potential impact as a disincentive to tourists. I’m aware these concerns are shared by many within our local tourism industry, including businesses on the North Coast.Tourism is a key priority for me, and I will meet with the NI Tourism Alliance in the very near future to discuss this vital issue and to hear at first hand the industry’s concerns. Following these discussions, I will lobby hard with the British Home Office Minister for Legal Migration to raise my strong concerns and urge consideration of an ETA exemption package of short-term mitigations for tourists travelling to the North.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207625%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390905","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390905"}},{"id":"390904","reference":"AQW 7624/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-27","answerBy":"2024-03-13","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) what discussions he has had with Tourism NI and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding proposals for a new world-class golf course being developed at Magilligan and a museum of US presidents with local links; (ii) how his Department can be involved in the creation of these; and (iii) for his assessment of how this could positively impact the tourism in the north coast.","answerText":"To date there have been no formal discussions with Tourism NI (TNI) and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on these specific proposals. The proposals which have been presented at this stage are still in the exploratory stage and no detailed assessment has been carried out on either project.\n\nIt should be noted that whilst there was a golf course on Magilligan Point a little over 100 years ago, the land is a protected nature reserve today and the development of the site into a golf course will need to be include an investigation into the environmental protections currently in place to determine whether any development is possible.\n\nTNI will be happy to work with the Council and other stakeholders to establish the viability of these proposals as they develop.\n\nNo formal feasibility study has been conducted into the economic value of a new championship links course, however due to the continued demand for links golf in the North the economic value has the potential to be substantial.\n\nIt would be advisable that careful thought is given to any museum development as very few museums operate without substantial public sector subvention and the project sponsors would want to be assured that such a proposal is commercially viable in the longer term before any commitment is made to such a development.","answerHtml":"To date there have been no formal discussions with Tourism NI (TNI) and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on these specific proposals. The proposals which have been presented at this stage are still in the exploratory stage and no detailed assessment has been carried out on either project.
It should be noted that whilst there was a golf course on Magilligan Point a little over 100 years ago, the land is a protected nature reserve today and the development of the site into a golf course will need to be include an investigation into the environmental protections currently in place to determine whether any development is possible.
TNI will be happy to work with the Council and other stakeholders to establish the viability of these proposals as they develop.
No formal feasibility study has been conducted into the economic value of a new championship links course, however due to the continued demand for links golf in the North the economic value has the potential to be substantial.
It would be advisable that careful thought is given to any museum development as very few museums operate without substantial public sector subvention and the project sponsors would want to be assured that such a proposal is commercially viable in the longer term before any commitment is made to such a development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207624%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390904","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390904"}},{"id":"390903","reference":"AQW 7623/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-27","answerBy":"2024-03-13","answered":"2024-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the steps she is taking to ensure disabled access in all government buildings.","answerText":"My Department is committed to equality and ensuring our government offices are accessible.\n\nAll newly constructed offices and major refurbishments on the DoF Office Estate comply with access requirements in the Building Regulations. The design of the office will also consider the recommendations contained in the 2018 BS 8300 ‘Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment Part 2: Buildings’ Code of Practice, whenever feasible.\n\nAll existing buildings are as accessible as is practicable, given our Estate includes some listed and heritage buildings but, as a minimum, comply with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination (Providers of Services) (Adjustment of Premises) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, to ensure that our staff and visitors, including those with disabilities, can access and work safely in our buildings.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to equality and ensuring our government offices are accessible.
All newly constructed offices and major refurbishments on the DoF Office Estate comply with access requirements in the Building Regulations. The design of the office will also consider the recommendations contained in the 2018 BS 8300 ‘Design of an accessible and inclusive built environment Part 2: Buildings’ Code of Practice, whenever feasible.
All existing buildings are as accessible as is practicable, given our Estate includes some listed and heritage buildings but, as a minimum, comply with the requirements of the Disability Discrimination (Providers of Services) (Adjustment of Premises) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, to ensure that our staff and visitors, including those with disabilities, can access and work safely in our buildings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207623%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390903"}},{"id":"390902","reference":"AQW 7622/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-27","answerBy":"2024-03-13","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what assistance his Department provides to groups supporting those suffering from endometriosis.","answerText":"Covid, and general overarching pressures within the Gynaecology Service in Northern Ireland have delayed the development of Endometriosis Services.\n\nAs you may be aware, my Department recently launched the Women’s Health Strategy for Northern Ireland and we have also published the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology – this signals our commitment to working towards improving services for women which includes those suffering from endometriosis.\n\nThe GIRFT report has identified 20 general recommendations to improve services through coordinated regional action, as well as a list of specific recommendations for each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust to take forward. These recommendations have been accepted in principle with a view to implementing the required improvements as soon as it is feasible; however, it is acknowledged that some recommendations may require additional funding and lead-in time to deliver fully.","answerHtml":"Covid, and general overarching pressures within the Gynaecology Service in Northern Ireland have delayed the development of Endometriosis Services.
As you may be aware, my Department recently launched the Women’s Health Strategy for Northern Ireland and we have also published the Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Report for Gynaecology – this signals our commitment to working towards improving services for women which includes those suffering from endometriosis.
The GIRFT report has identified 20 general recommendations to improve services through coordinated regional action, as well as a list of specific recommendations for each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust to take forward. These recommendations have been accepted in principle with a view to implementing the required improvements as soon as it is feasible; however, it is acknowledged that some recommendations may require additional funding and lead-in time to deliver fully.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207622%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390902"}},{"id":"390578","reference":"AQW 7493/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) which roads in the East Londonderry constituency will benefit from the (a) £1 million funding for potholes; and (b) £8.1 million for road maintenance; and (ii) the funding that will be allocated to the East Londonderry constituency.","answerText":"My Department does not operate within a constituency basis, rather road maintenance section office boundaries mirror local council boundaries. Both the additional £1m of funding for potholes and the further £8.1m of funding for structural maintenance have been allocated to each of the four roads divisions. A proportion of the funding for potholes will now be used in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area, with plans already in place for work on the Frosses Road.\n\nThe additional £8.1m funding for my Department’s Structural Maintenance Programme is to deliver additional resurfacing schemes and continue to address the poor condition of our road network.\n\nWork has started on the planning and delivery of new schemes for delivery this financial year. However, the development of the programmes is on-going so a full breakdown of these is not yet available.","answerHtml":"My Department does not operate within a constituency basis, rather road maintenance section office boundaries mirror local council boundaries. Both the additional £1m of funding for potholes and the further £8.1m of funding for structural maintenance have been allocated to each of the four roads divisions. A proportion of the funding for potholes will now be used in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area, with plans already in place for work on the Frosses Road.
The additional £8.1m funding for my Department’s Structural Maintenance Programme is to deliver additional resurfacing schemes and continue to address the poor condition of our road network.
Work has started on the planning and delivery of new schemes for delivery this financial year. However, the development of the programmes is on-going so a full breakdown of these is not yet available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207493%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390578"}},{"id":"390577","reference":"AQW 7492/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the postnatal mental health resources available for new fathers.","answerText":"It is recognised that the postnatal period may be a time of considerable psychological and social stress for the baby’s father and this may contribute to depressive symptoms developing.\n\nMy Department along with the Public Health Agency established Community Perinatal Mental Health services across all HSC Trusts in June 2023. While this service is for mothers, our teams can offer support and psychoeducation to their partners and direct them to appropriate services to seek help.\n\nThere are a range of services available for men within general mental health services and within the community and voluntary sector.\n\nAs Community Perinatal Mental Health teams grow and evolve, it may be possible that they are able to offer more by the way of support and intervention to the partners of the mothers they are seeing.","answerHtml":"It is recognised that the postnatal period may be a time of considerable psychological and social stress for the baby’s father and this may contribute to depressive symptoms developing.
My Department along with the Public Health Agency established Community Perinatal Mental Health services across all HSC Trusts in June 2023. While this service is for mothers, our teams can offer support and psychoeducation to their partners and direct them to appropriate services to seek help.
There are a range of services available for men within general mental health services and within the community and voluntary sector.
As Community Perinatal Mental Health teams grow and evolve, it may be possible that they are able to offer more by the way of support and intervention to the partners of the mothers they are seeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207492%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390577"}},{"id":"390576","reference":"AQW 7491/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail what plans he has to progress a sheep scheme.","answerText":"In January 2023, the Sheep Industry Taskforce produced its report to identify the needs of the sheep sector in Northern Ireland and a proposed package to encourage its development. I look forward to receiving a briefing on this report to better understand the strategic needs of the sector and will consider deploying levers to meet those needs. Any decision to introduce new policies or programmes will be in the context of budget availability within the ring-fenced farm support funding envelope.","answerHtml":"In January 2023, the Sheep Industry Taskforce produced its report to identify the needs of the sheep sector in Northern Ireland and a proposed package to encourage its development. I look forward to receiving a briefing on this report to better understand the strategic needs of the sector and will consider deploying levers to meet those needs. Any decision to introduce new policies or programmes will be in the context of budget availability within the ring-fenced farm support funding envelope.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207491%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390576","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390576"}},{"id":"390575","reference":"AQW 7490/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on a redress scheme for victims and survivors of historical institutional abuse.","answerText":"As of 31 January 2024, the Redress Board has received 4,283 applications, of which 9 remain non-compliant or incomplete. Redress Board panels have considered 4,211 applications making award determinations totalling £83,656,250, with £81,042,472 having been paid directly into the applicant or applicant’s solicitor’s account. As of 31 January 2024, 63 compliant applications remained to be considered by a panel.\n\nElectronic versions of each of the three Board Annual Reports are available via the Assembly Library.\n\nThe Redress Scheme is due to close to applications in April 2025.","answerHtml":"As of 31 January 2024, the Redress Board has received 4,283 applications, of which 9 remain non-compliant or incomplete. Redress Board panels have considered 4,211 applications making award determinations totalling £83,656,250, with £81,042,472 having been paid directly into the applicant or applicant’s solicitor’s account. As of 31 January 2024, 63 compliant applications remained to be considered by a panel.
Electronic versions of each of the three Board Annual Reports are available via the Assembly Library.
The Redress Scheme is due to close to applications in April 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207490%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390575"}},{"id":"390574","reference":"AQW 7489/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-26","answerBy":"2024-03-12","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail how the number of people being forced from their houses due to paramilitary intimidation is determined.","answerText":"The Department for Communities does not determine the number of people who may have left their homes because of paramilitary intimidation.\n\nThe Housing Executive will hold information for homeless presenters to it and acceptances due to intimidation, with a sub-category of ‘Intimidation – Paramilitary’. This is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.\n\nYou should, therefore, direct your question to the Housing Executive at its dedicated MLA response team, which can be contacted at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities does not determine the number of people who may have left their homes because of paramilitary intimidation.
The Housing Executive will hold information for homeless presenters to it and acceptances due to intimidation, with a sub-category of ‘Intimidation – Paramilitary’. This is an operational matter for the Housing Executive.
You should, therefore, direct your question to the Housing Executive at its dedicated MLA response team, which can be contacted at public.affairsunit@nihe.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207489%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390574"}},{"id":"390369","reference":"AQW 7403/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of regulations covering the beauty treatment sector; and (ii) to detail any steps he is taking to improve regulations, in particular those involving invasive procedures such as injections.","answerText":"The risk to public safety posed by the unlawful distribution and misuse of unauthorised medicinal products within the non-surgical cosmetic sector in Northern Ireland is a serious issue. Such breaches relating to Northern Ireland can be referred to my Department for investigation.\n\nMy Department continues to take decisive action to combat illegal promotion, supply or misuse of medicines and to alerting the public about the dangers of using unauthorised medicines outside of the regulated supply chain.\n\nWe remain vigilant and continue to work with key partner agencies to monitor the illicit marketplace and will continue to take effective action where necessary to protect public safety in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department is aware of the wider, changing health and social care service delivery environment, including in relation to cosmetic treatments.\n\nPrior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department had developed a new draft regulatory policy framework however further development work is required, including consultation on the draft policy.\n\nThe Department is currently operating within a constrained budget and is required to make decisions in relation to the work that can be delivered within current resources. In that context, work on the review of the regulation is currently paused to allow for other priority projects to progress.","answerHtml":"The risk to public safety posed by the unlawful distribution and misuse of unauthorised medicinal products within the non-surgical cosmetic sector in Northern Ireland is a serious issue. Such breaches relating to Northern Ireland can be referred to my Department for investigation.
My Department continues to take decisive action to combat illegal promotion, supply or misuse of medicines and to alerting the public about the dangers of using unauthorised medicines outside of the regulated supply chain.
We remain vigilant and continue to work with key partner agencies to monitor the illicit marketplace and will continue to take effective action where necessary to protect public safety in Northern Ireland.
My Department is aware of the wider, changing health and social care service delivery environment, including in relation to cosmetic treatments.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department had developed a new draft regulatory policy framework however further development work is required, including consultation on the draft policy.
The Department is currently operating within a constrained budget and is required to make decisions in relation to the work that can be delivered within current resources. In that context, work on the review of the regulation is currently paused to allow for other priority projects to progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207403%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390369"}},{"id":"390368","reference":"AQW 7402/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of coastal flooding modelling, such as Climate Central’s Coastal Risk Screening Tool, and its identification of areas of the north coast that are likely to become vulnerable to flooding within the next decade; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to explore options for coastal flooding defences in the identified areas.","answerText":"My Department has published flood maps for all of the North. These maps identify areas which may be vulnerable to both present day and projected climate change impacts associated with river, surface and coastal flooding. The maps are available to view at: Flood Maps NI | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk).\n\nClimate Central is an American independent group that use their own sources and methods to apply climate change scenarios to nations worldwide. The Department does not contribute to these models and cannot comment on the accuracy of the outputs.\n\nHowever, a regional Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) for 2021 – 2027 has been developed by my Department. The development of this plan has, utilised industry accepted flood modelling techniques, and identified areas of existing and potential flood risk, including area subject to coastal flood risk. The FRMP is readily available on the Department’s website at: 2nd Cycle - Flood Risk Management Plan 2021-2027 | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk).\n\nThe FRMP includes a range of interventions to manage flood risk from a range of sources. As part of this work my Department is currently progressing various detailed flood studies and is also currently progressing the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme (BTFAS). The scheme aims to provide a long-term approach to tidal flood risk management for the City. The scheme takes into account the latest projections on climate change and also allows for future adaption to mitigate against potential sea level rises.","answerHtml":"My Department has published flood maps for all of the North. These maps identify areas which may be vulnerable to both present day and projected climate change impacts associated with river, surface and coastal flooding. The maps are available to view at: Flood Maps NI | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk).
Climate Central is an American independent group that use their own sources and methods to apply climate change scenarios to nations worldwide. The Department does not contribute to these models and cannot comment on the accuracy of the outputs.
However, a regional Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) for 2021 – 2027 has been developed by my Department. The development of this plan has, utilised industry accepted flood modelling techniques, and identified areas of existing and potential flood risk, including area subject to coastal flood risk. The FRMP is readily available on the Department’s website at: 2nd Cycle - Flood Risk Management Plan 2021-2027 | Department for Infrastructure (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk).
The FRMP includes a range of interventions to manage flood risk from a range of sources. As part of this work my Department is currently progressing various detailed flood studies and is also currently progressing the Belfast Tidal Flood Alleviation Scheme (BTFAS). The scheme aims to provide a long-term approach to tidal flood risk management for the City. The scheme takes into account the latest projections on climate change and also allows for future adaption to mitigate against potential sea level rises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207402%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390368"}},{"id":"390367","reference":"AQW 7401/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to recent commitments to building the economy in the north west, to detail his plans to grow the economy in areas beyond Londonderry city, particularly in towns and areas in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Regional economic balance is one of my key objectives and I recognise that building the economy is critical for all areas of the North-West. My recent announcement of just over £1m for Derry City airport and future investment through the Causeway Coast & Glens Growth Deal will all play an important part in delivering regional balance. Work is also underway with all Councils to identify their economic priorities and to co-design targets in the Sub-Regional Economic Action Plan.","answerHtml":"Regional economic balance is one of my key objectives and I recognise that building the economy is critical for all areas of the North-West. My recent announcement of just over £1m for Derry City airport and future investment through the Causeway Coast & Glens Growth Deal will all play an important part in delivering regional balance. Work is also underway with all Councils to identify their economic priorities and to co-design targets in the Sub-Regional Economic Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207401%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390367"}},{"id":"390366","reference":"AQW 7400/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for a timeline on the delivery of funds to departments to resolve ongoing pay disputes.","answerText":"At its meeting on 15 February 2024, the Executive agreed the final departmental funding envelopes for the 2023-24 financial year, utilising the additional £1046.5 million from the financial package.\n\nIt is now for individual Ministers to manage pay awards within the funding envelope provided to their department.","answerHtml":"At its meeting on 15 February 2024, the Executive agreed the final departmental funding envelopes for the 2023-24 financial year, utilising the additional £1046.5 million from the financial package.
It is now for individual Ministers to manage pay awards within the funding envelope provided to their department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207400%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390366"}},{"id":"390365","reference":"AQW 7399/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-23","answerBy":"2024-03-11","answered":"2024-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail his plans to resolve the funding deficit that exists for community pharmacies, including reviewing the current drug tariff and clawback model; and (ii) for his assessment of the current operating conditions for pharmacies, given that many are operating at a loss, are having to use their own personal savings and are unable to employ and train staff.","answerText":"I very much appreciate the extremely important work that community pharmacies deliver for our population.\n\nMy Department undertook a consultation seeking to improve the Drug Tariff arrangements in April 2022 and work is currently in train to take forward the first element of reform involving discount clawbacks.\n\nIn light of representations from the sector, I held a meeting with representatives of CPNI and I have asked that further work is undertaken to review financial arrangements which includes elements of the Drug Tariff. I encouraged CPNI to continue to work with Department officials to seek ways to ensure the pharmacy service can develop in line with our shared strategic objectives.","answerHtml":"I very much appreciate the extremely important work that community pharmacies deliver for our population.
My Department undertook a consultation seeking to improve the Drug Tariff arrangements in April 2022 and work is currently in train to take forward the first element of reform involving discount clawbacks.
In light of representations from the sector, I held a meeting with representatives of CPNI and I have asked that further work is undertaken to review financial arrangements which includes elements of the Drug Tariff. I encouraged CPNI to continue to work with Department officials to seek ways to ensure the pharmacy service can develop in line with our shared strategic objectives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207399%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390365","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390365"}},{"id":"390082","reference":"AQW 7264/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for her assessment of the number of private properties that are currently uninhabitable due to dereliction and neglect; and (ii) to detail any (a) cross-departmental work; and (b) work with the private sector, she has planned to bring these properties back into use.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nProperty that is uninhabitable because it is derelict does not have a rateable value, and Land & Property Services (LPS) does not hold information for such property. Property that is uninhabitable due to neglect may still attract a rateable value because the property is capable of repair, however LPS does not hold details in its systems to identify all such property.\n\nI have no plans at this time. Housing strategy is led by the Department for Communities and I look forward to working with that Department within the context of my Ministerial portfolio.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
Property that is uninhabitable because it is derelict does not have a rateable value, and Land & Property Services (LPS) does not hold information for such property. Property that is uninhabitable due to neglect may still attract a rateable value because the property is capable of repair, however LPS does not hold details in its systems to identify all such property.
I have no plans at this time. Housing strategy is led by the Department for Communities and I look forward to working with that Department within the context of my Ministerial portfolio.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207264%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390082"}},{"id":"390081","reference":"AQW 7263/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the number of private residential properties and units that were not inhabited in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency; and (ii) the proportion of these properties that were in an uninhabitable condition.","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nDetails on properties not inhabited is not recorded within the Land & Property Services rating system. However, the table below sets out the number of Housing Stock* properties recorded as vacant within the rating system, by District Council in each of the last five years.\n\nAs rates are payable on all domestic properties irrespective of whether the property is occupied or vacant, information provided may not reflect the actual number of vacant properties.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
Details on properties not inhabited is not recorded within the Land & Property Services rating system. However, the table below sets out the number of Housing Stock* properties recorded as vacant within the rating system, by District Council in each of the last five years.
As rates are payable on all domestic properties irrespective of whether the property is occupied or vacant, information provided may not reflect the actual number of vacant properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207263%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390081"}},{"id":"390080","reference":"AQW 7262/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","answered":"2024-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the number of times Article 6 of The Pollution Control and Local Government (NI) Order 1978 has been used by local councils, in each of the past 10 years, to force owners to make improvements to a dilapidated property; (ii) the council areas this has been done; and (iii) the efforts his Department has, and will, make to encourage councils to use the powers they have in this regard, particularly in reference to increased insurance premiums, reduced property value and anti-social behaviour.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information, and I understand that the relevant legislation falls under the auspices of DAERA.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information, and I understand that the relevant legislation falls under the auspices of DAERA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207262%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390080"}},{"id":"390079","reference":"AQW 7261/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","answered":"2024-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of the efficacy of laws which give powers to local councils to oblige owners to better maintain their properties when they fall into disrepair, dereliction or ruin; (ii) to detail the most recent changes to laws of this kind; and (iii) to detail any plans he has to update these laws.","answerText":"I am aware that dilapidated properties can have a detrimental impact on the lives of people who live in adjoining properties and also on the amenities of neighbourhoods. There is a range of existing legislation across a number of Departments that is available to district councils to deal with dilapidation and to evaluate its effectiveness.\n\nThe Planning Act (NI) 2011 contains a number of provisions that provide councils with the powers to issue a “completion notice” to require a development which has a time bound planning permission, and which has been commenced, to be completed within a time limit of at least 12 months; to issue an order requiring a particular land use to stop or require the alteration or removal of any building or works in the interests of proper planning or amenity; and to serve an ‘Urgent Works Notice’ (UWN), where it appears to a council that works are urgently necessary for the preservation of a listed building (or building in a Conservation Area).","answerHtml":"I am aware that dilapidated properties can have a detrimental impact on the lives of people who live in adjoining properties and also on the amenities of neighbourhoods. There is a range of existing legislation across a number of Departments that is available to district councils to deal with dilapidation and to evaluate its effectiveness.
The Planning Act (NI) 2011 contains a number of provisions that provide councils with the powers to issue a “completion notice” to require a development which has a time bound planning permission, and which has been commenced, to be completed within a time limit of at least 12 months; to issue an order requiring a particular land use to stop or require the alteration or removal of any building or works in the interests of proper planning or amenity; and to serve an ‘Urgent Works Notice’ (UWN), where it appears to a council that works are urgently necessary for the preservation of a listed building (or building in a Conservation Area).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207261%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390079","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390079"}},{"id":"390078","reference":"AQW 7260/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-22","answerBy":"2024-03-08","answered":"2024-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any work being planned (i) by his Department; and (ii) on a cross-departmental basis, to attract more people into town centres, particularly in the East Londonderry constituency.","answerText":"Sub-regional economic development, including addressing regional imbalances, is one of my core priorities.\n\nI will work with a range of local partners including local enterprise agencies, local businesses, the community and voluntary sector, Invest NI and councils, who have a lead role in progressing and promoting local economic development policies to improve town centres.\n\nI also intend to work with Executive colleagues on taking forward the High Street Task Force recommendations to benefit town centres. This will necessarily require agreement from other Ministers.","answerHtml":"Sub-regional economic development, including addressing regional imbalances, is one of my core priorities.
I will work with a range of local partners including local enterprise agencies, local businesses, the community and voluntary sector, Invest NI and councils, who have a lead role in progressing and promoting local economic development policies to improve town centres.
I also intend to work with Executive colleagues on taking forward the High Street Task Force recommendations to benefit town centres. This will necessarily require agreement from other Ministers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207260%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=390078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=390078"}},{"id":"389757","reference":"AQW 7133/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his plans to facilitate the wider roll-out of stereotactic radiotherapy for cancer patients; (ii) the number of patients who would benefit from this treatment; and (iii) the number of patients that can be offered this treatment option.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207133%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389757","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389757"}},{"id":"389756","reference":"AQW 7132/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the potential to grow Northern Ireland’s adventure tourism sector; and (ii) any plans he has to create a specific body that oversees and develops this sector.","answerText":"I am considering these matters as part of the tourism strategy.","answerHtml":"I am considering these matters as part of the tourism strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207132%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389756","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389756"}},{"id":"389755","reference":"AQW 7131/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on any work that is (i) underway; and (ii) planned, to explore Northern Ireland’s potential for geothermal energy production.","answerText":"Geothermal energy is widely used in Europe and globally, however, there are very few installations in the north. The Energy Strategy recognised the potential for geothermal energy to support the Energy Strategy’s vision of net zero and affordable energy and the 2022 action plan committed to commencing a geothermal demonstration project.In February 2023, the Department commenced delivery of the geothermal demonstration project “GeoEnergy NI”. The project is aimed at encouraging demand for and unlocking investment in geothermal technology. The project comprises two geothermal exploratory and feasibility studies which will help unearth the heat beneath our feet. It is anticipated that the project will be delivered incrementally in the coming years with current feasibility studies due to be completed in early 2025.The project is supported by a communications and marketing strategy aimed at engaging and educating the public and more information can be found at: GeoEnergy NI - Unearthing The Heat Beneath Our Feet.","answerHtml":"Geothermal energy is widely used in Europe and globally, however, there are very few installations in the north. The Energy Strategy recognised the potential for geothermal energy to support the Energy Strategy’s vision of net zero and affordable energy and the 2022 action plan committed to commencing a geothermal demonstration project.In February 2023, the Department commenced delivery of the geothermal demonstration project “GeoEnergy NI”. The project is aimed at encouraging demand for and unlocking investment in geothermal technology. The project comprises two geothermal exploratory and feasibility studies which will help unearth the heat beneath our feet. It is anticipated that the project will be delivered incrementally in the coming years with current feasibility studies due to be completed in early 2025.The project is supported by a communications and marketing strategy aimed at engaging and educating the public and more information can be found at: GeoEnergy NI - Unearthing The Heat Beneath Our Feet.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207131%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389755","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389755"}},{"id":"389754","reference":"AQW 7130/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for her assessment of the obligations, set out in the recent deal with the UK government, on the Executive to raise revenue to help pay for public services","answerText":"ANSWER\n\nThe financial package which accompanied the return of the Executive, while welcome, does not put the Executive’s finances on a sustainable footing. The Executive is committed to delivering sustainable public services. A pre-requisite of that must be that the right level of funding is provided.\n\nI have a number of significant concerns in relation to the financial package, not least the conditions attached to the write -off of the £559 million provided in the package for ‘debts’.\n\nMy view is that these ‘debts’ only arose due to the underfunding of our public services. To make this funding repayable unless the Executive raises a £113 million through locally generated revenue in 2024-25 is unacceptable.\n\nI am meeting the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 28 February to discuss my concerns.","answerHtml":"ANSWER
The financial package which accompanied the return of the Executive, while welcome, does not put the Executive’s finances on a sustainable footing. The Executive is committed to delivering sustainable public services. A pre-requisite of that must be that the right level of funding is provided.
I have a number of significant concerns in relation to the financial package, not least the conditions attached to the write -off of the £559 million provided in the package for ‘debts’.
My view is that these ‘debts’ only arose due to the underfunding of our public services. To make this funding repayable unless the Executive raises a £113 million through locally generated revenue in 2024-25 is unacceptable.
I am meeting the Chief Secretary to the Treasury on 28 February to discuss my concerns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207130%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389754"}},{"id":"389753","reference":"AQW 7129/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-21","answerBy":"2024-03-07","answered":"2024-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the anticipated timeline of the offer of a pay deal to transport workers, with a view to settling the ongoing dispute and preventing further industrial action.","answerText":"Following the Executive’s agreement to allocate the Department additional resource budget of £87.8m, an additional budget allocation was provided to Translink to enable it to negotiate a 2023-24 pay award with trade unions. The unions are currently balloting their members and I await an announcement of the result.","answerHtml":"Following the Executive’s agreement to allocate the Department additional resource budget of £87.8m, an additional budget allocation was provided to Translink to enable it to negotiate a 2023-24 pay award with trade unions. The unions are currently balloting their members and I await an announcement of the result.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207129%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389753"}},{"id":"389491","reference":"AQW 6980/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) what areas of healthcare could be treated in the community through pharmacies, opticians, dentists and other professional settings; and (ii) what plans he has to facilitate this.","answerText":"Western Urgent Care (WUC) is commissioned to provide the GP Out of Hours (OOHs) service across the Western area. The GP OOHs service is for people who need urgent medical treatment but cannot wait until their doctor's practice reopens. The local population is encouraged to utilise the service appropriately to meet any urgent health care needs which cannot wait to be seen by their registered practice when it reopens.\n\nThe GP OOHs service is available Mon-Fri from 6pm to 8am the next morning, as well as 24 hours at weekends and during public holidays. All Patients can contact WUC via a single telephone number, there are no telephone numbers available to contact bases directly. Patients who contact the service will be triaged by a telephone or video call by clinical staff who could be located in any one of the service’s bases in Derry/ Londonderry, Enniskillen, Limavady, Strabane or Omagh. Many patients can be safely and effectively clinically triaged by either a Nurse Advisor, Prescribing Pharmacist, an Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) or GP. The majority of patients who contact WUC OOHs service do not need to be seen face-to-face. From Apr-Dec 2023, 71% of WUC OOHs patient contacts were given advice by telephone or video call, 25% of patient contacts required a base visit and 4% of contacts required a home visit.\n\nThe GP OOH service provided by WUC faces considerable challenges in consistently populating the GP rota, despite best efforts. Reasons for this include the fact that GPs are not contractually obliged to work in GP OOH; shifting attitudes in relation to achieving work life balance and preparedness or willingness of doctors to cover out of hours’ sessions; and busier and more complex day time general practice reducing the inclination or ability of GPs to work additional out of hours sessions. When GPs book to work in out of hours clinics, the majority prefer to work within their local area - close to their own practices and homes.\n\nThe majority of clinical staff are retained by WUC on an ‘as and when required’ basis and for the reasons outlined above DoH does encourage the development of a multidisciplinary workforce. Provision of a multidisciplinary workforce allows WUC to meet patient needs and make effective use of the available clinical resource.","answerHtml":"Western Urgent Care (WUC) is commissioned to provide the GP Out of Hours (OOHs) service across the Western area. The GP OOHs service is for people who need urgent medical treatment but cannot wait until their doctor's practice reopens. The local population is encouraged to utilise the service appropriately to meet any urgent health care needs which cannot wait to be seen by their registered practice when it reopens.
The GP OOHs service is available Mon-Fri from 6pm to 8am the next morning, as well as 24 hours at weekends and during public holidays. All Patients can contact WUC via a single telephone number, there are no telephone numbers available to contact bases directly. Patients who contact the service will be triaged by a telephone or video call by clinical staff who could be located in any one of the service’s bases in Derry/ Londonderry, Enniskillen, Limavady, Strabane or Omagh. Many patients can be safely and effectively clinically triaged by either a Nurse Advisor, Prescribing Pharmacist, an Advanced Nurse Practitioners (ANPs) or GP. The majority of patients who contact WUC OOHs service do not need to be seen face-to-face. From Apr-Dec 2023, 71% of WUC OOHs patient contacts were given advice by telephone or video call, 25% of patient contacts required a base visit and 4% of contacts required a home visit.
The GP OOH service provided by WUC faces considerable challenges in consistently populating the GP rota, despite best efforts. Reasons for this include the fact that GPs are not contractually obliged to work in GP OOH; shifting attitudes in relation to achieving work life balance and preparedness or willingness of doctors to cover out of hours’ sessions; and busier and more complex day time general practice reducing the inclination or ability of GPs to work additional out of hours sessions. When GPs book to work in out of hours clinics, the majority prefer to work within their local area - close to their own practices and homes.
The majority of clinical staff are retained by WUC on an ‘as and when required’ basis and for the reasons outlined above DoH does encourage the development of a multidisciplinary workforce. Provision of a multidisciplinary workforce allows WUC to meet patient needs and make effective use of the available clinical resource.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206980%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389491"}},{"id":"389490","reference":"AQW 6979/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) what plans he has to reduce the time taken to process planning applications for renewable energy projects, for instance onshore windfarms; and (ii) how this may be achieved.","answerText":"I recognise the importance of facilitating the drive to meet the targets for renewable energy set out in the Energy Strategy and the Climate Change Act and believe that a continuing engagement is important with the renewables sector.\n\nI am also committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way. I intend to take some time to review the progress that has been made to date and will continue to work closely with key stakeholders to collectively improve processes and increase the efficiency of the system. Progress is however dependent on the resources available to key areas of the system.","answerHtml":"I recognise the importance of facilitating the drive to meet the targets for renewable energy set out in the Energy Strategy and the Climate Change Act and believe that a continuing engagement is important with the renewables sector.
I am also committed to ensuring that our planning system operates in an efficient and effective way. I intend to take some time to review the progress that has been made to date and will continue to work closely with key stakeholders to collectively improve processes and increase the efficiency of the system. Progress is however dependent on the resources available to key areas of the system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206979%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389490"}},{"id":"389489","reference":"AQW 6978/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of the prevalence of mother and baby car parking spaces in public car parks; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to encourage an increase in this number.","answerText":"The management of the majority of publicly provided off-street carparks transferred from the Department to local Councils on 1 April 2015. The provision of dedicated parking bays for specific purposes is therefore a matter for the local Council which operates the facility.\n\nThe off-street parking places operated by the Department are “park and ride” or “park and share”.\n\nPark &Ride sites are primarily a facility to encourage and promote modal shift by utilising public transport as an alternative to the private car. Park & Share sites are primarily directed at commuters and are generally located at key interchange junctions to provide an off-road facility for sharing of car borne journeys to a common destination.\n\nParent and Baby spaces are mostly found in 'attractor' car parks, particularly supermarkets. The wider bays are designed to give parents enough space to manoeuvre their young children in and out of their cars, especially when they have bulky carriers or pushchairs.","answerHtml":"The management of the majority of publicly provided off-street carparks transferred from the Department to local Councils on 1 April 2015. The provision of dedicated parking bays for specific purposes is therefore a matter for the local Council which operates the facility.
The off-street parking places operated by the Department are “park and ride” or “park and share”.
Park &Ride sites are primarily a facility to encourage and promote modal shift by utilising public transport as an alternative to the private car. Park & Share sites are primarily directed at commuters and are generally located at key interchange junctions to provide an off-road facility for sharing of car borne journeys to a common destination.
Parent and Baby spaces are mostly found in 'attractor' car parks, particularly supermarkets. The wider bays are designed to give parents enough space to manoeuvre their young children in and out of their cars, especially when they have bulky carriers or pushchairs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206978%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389489"}},{"id":"389488","reference":"AQW 6977/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of whether the time and effort required to obtain a convenient and timely MOT appointment, represents an acceptable value for money service; (ii) to outline the steps he will take to (a) improve; and (b) expedite the MOT booking and testing process; and (iii) what consideration he has given to (a) temporarily extending the MOT exemption period for new cars; (b) establishing a separate, expedited process for car dealerships; and (c) creating a specific position or think-tank for resolving this issue.","answerText":"In 2022-2023, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) conducted over 1.15 million vehicle tests which is the highest number ever recorded in a year. This increase in capacity has been achieved by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the most recent recruitment competition launched on 19 February 2024 to fill staff vacancies across the DVA’s network of test centres. The DVA also uses overtime to provide cover for leave and they offer vehicle test appointments on Sundays and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available. Disappointingly, the number of vehicles that failed to attend a booked appointment in 2022-2023 was also the highest on record at 50,772.\n\nWhilst demand for vehicle testing services remains high, the DVA has taken a number of steps to improve the customer experience. For example, in September 2021 the DVA implemented a new online booking system to replace the previous booking system, which was 20 years old. The new system has simplified the MOT and driving test application process through the introduction of easy-to-use screens for customers, with clear guidance on how to complete the booking process.\n\nThe DVA appreciates that, in some cases, customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires and has taken steps to ensure that motorists are still able to use their vehicles when they are unable to secure an MOT appointment before their current MOT expires. The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at A guide to booking your MOT/ vehicle test | nidirect and is also included as an advice note with every MOT reminder letter issued to customers.\n\nVehicle test appointments are released on a daily basis, when resources become available, so customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available. Information on how a customer can change, cancel or view their MOT appointment online is available on NI Direct at Change, cancel or view your MOT/ vehicle test appointment online | nidirect\n\nTo further increase vehicle testing capacity, the DVA is investing in new test centres. The construction of a new test centre at Hydebank, in Belfast, is nearing completion and will open later this year. The construction contract for a second new test centre at Mallusk has also been awarded and this new test centre is expected to open in 2025. Once fully operational, these two new centres will provide the capacity to test over 200,000 additional vehicles per annum, which will help the DVA meet the future demand for this service.\n\nThe circumstances that provided for the issue of Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) have significantly changed, along with the return of normal testing services following the pandemic. It is, therefore, important from a road safety perspective, that all vehicles are tested at the earliest opportunity. As such, there are no plans to issue further TECs at this time.\n\nLocal test centre management teams liaise closely with stakeholder dealerships to assist them with urgent appointments. If there is a particular dealership experiencing difficulty please forward their details to Pat Delaney, DVA’s Director of Operations, at pat.delaney@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk who will contact them directly. In addition, the DVA met with representatives from the National Franchised Dealers Association on 21 February, where a number of options were discussed to help ease the strain on dealerships obtaining appointments.","answerHtml":"In 2022-2023, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) conducted over 1.15 million vehicle tests which is the highest number ever recorded in a year. This increase in capacity has been achieved by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the most recent recruitment competition launched on 19 February 2024 to fill staff vacancies across the DVA’s network of test centres. The DVA also uses overtime to provide cover for leave and they offer vehicle test appointments on Sundays and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available. Disappointingly, the number of vehicles that failed to attend a booked appointment in 2022-2023 was also the highest on record at 50,772.
Whilst demand for vehicle testing services remains high, the DVA has taken a number of steps to improve the customer experience. For example, in September 2021 the DVA implemented a new online booking system to replace the previous booking system, which was 20 years old. The new system has simplified the MOT and driving test application process through the introduction of easy-to-use screens for customers, with clear guidance on how to complete the booking process.
The DVA appreciates that, in some cases, customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires and has taken steps to ensure that motorists are still able to use their vehicles when they are unable to secure an MOT appointment before their current MOT expires. The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at A guide to booking your MOT/ vehicle test | nidirect and is also included as an advice note with every MOT reminder letter issued to customers.
Vehicle test appointments are released on a daily basis, when resources become available, so customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available. Information on how a customer can change, cancel or view their MOT appointment online is available on NI Direct at Change, cancel or view your MOT/ vehicle test appointment online | nidirect
To further increase vehicle testing capacity, the DVA is investing in new test centres. The construction of a new test centre at Hydebank, in Belfast, is nearing completion and will open later this year. The construction contract for a second new test centre at Mallusk has also been awarded and this new test centre is expected to open in 2025. Once fully operational, these two new centres will provide the capacity to test over 200,000 additional vehicles per annum, which will help the DVA meet the future demand for this service.
The circumstances that provided for the issue of Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) have significantly changed, along with the return of normal testing services following the pandemic. It is, therefore, important from a road safety perspective, that all vehicles are tested at the earliest opportunity. As such, there are no plans to issue further TECs at this time.
Local test centre management teams liaise closely with stakeholder dealerships to assist them with urgent appointments. If there is a particular dealership experiencing difficulty please forward their details to Pat Delaney, DVA’s Director of Operations, at pat.delaney@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk who will contact them directly. In addition, the DVA met with representatives from the National Franchised Dealers Association on 21 February, where a number of options were discussed to help ease the strain on dealerships obtaining appointments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206977%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389488"}},{"id":"389487","reference":"AQW 6976/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-20","answerBy":"2024-03-06","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of how drug (a) availability; (b) misuse; and (c) addiction is being tackled in HMP Magilligan; and (ii) to detail what further steps she will take to reduce the number of inmates who are able to (a) maintain; or (b) develop a drug habit while in HMP Magilligan.","answerText":"Many people coming into prison have existing issues regarding addiction and display drug-seeking behaviours. Magilligan disrupts the availability of illegal drugs into and within the prison using X-Ray body scanners and other search aids to thwart efforts to traffic prohibited items. Healthcare in Prisons teams also work to support those prisoners with drug addictions.\n\nKey to this are partnerships with North West Regional College, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, AD:EPT (Alcohol and Drugs: Empowering People through Therapy) and other stakeholders. This integrated approach has been designed to boost purposeful activity, maintain family links and empower individuals’ self-esteem to break the cycle of substance misuse. Positive results have already been evidenced from these interventions.\n\nThe recent Independent Review of Progress at Magilligan Prison noted that a revised Drug and Alcohol Strategy had been introduced in September 2023. This Strategy is now embedded and a plan is in place to restrict supply, reduce demand and build recovery.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Prison Service also continues to work closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to tackle the flow of drugs into prisons.","answerHtml":"Many people coming into prison have existing issues regarding addiction and display drug-seeking behaviours. Magilligan disrupts the availability of illegal drugs into and within the prison using X-Ray body scanners and other search aids to thwart efforts to traffic prohibited items. Healthcare in Prisons teams also work to support those prisoners with drug addictions.
Key to this are partnerships with North West Regional College, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, AD:EPT (Alcohol and Drugs: Empowering People through Therapy) and other stakeholders. This integrated approach has been designed to boost purposeful activity, maintain family links and empower individuals’ self-esteem to break the cycle of substance misuse. Positive results have already been evidenced from these interventions.
The recent Independent Review of Progress at Magilligan Prison noted that a revised Drug and Alcohol Strategy had been introduced in September 2023. This Strategy is now embedded and a plan is in place to restrict supply, reduce demand and build recovery.
The Northern Ireland Prison Service also continues to work closely with the Police Service of Northern Ireland to tackle the flow of drugs into prisons.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206976%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389487"}},{"id":"389241","reference":"AQW 6855/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the mechanism by which recipients of housing assistance will be protected from the planned 7.7 per cent rise in social housing rent in 2024-25.","answerText":"Housing assistance is provided through Housing Benefit and Universal Credit. From April 2023, most social security benefits, including personal allowances and premia in Housing Benefit, were increased by 10.1%. From April 2024 they will be increased by a further 6.7%.\n\nAdditional support is available through Social Sector Size Criteria Welfare Supplementary Payments and the Discretionary Housing Payment Scheme. Collectively these measures will help protect recipients of housing assistance from the planned rise in social housing rent in 2024/25.","answerHtml":"Housing assistance is provided through Housing Benefit and Universal Credit. From April 2023, most social security benefits, including personal allowances and premia in Housing Benefit, were increased by 10.1%. From April 2024 they will be increased by a further 6.7%.
Additional support is available through Social Sector Size Criteria Welfare Supplementary Payments and the Discretionary Housing Payment Scheme. Collectively these measures will help protect recipients of housing assistance from the planned rise in social housing rent in 2024/25.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206855%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389241"}},{"id":"389240","reference":"AQW 6854/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of (i) the number of vacant commercial properties in town centres across East Londonderry; (ii) the trends seen in this number, over the last five years; and (iii) the issues dissuading traders from (a) maintaining; and (b) establishing commercial premises in these centres; and (iv) what steps his Department has (a) taken; and (b) planned, to encourage and incentivise more businesses, particularly independent traders, into commercial premises in the constituency’s town centres.","answerText":"(i) the number of vacant commercial properties in town centres across East Londonderry; (ii) the trends seen in this number, over the last five years; I have consulted with colleagues in the Department of Finance and the Department for Communities and the number of vacant commercial properties in town centres is not recorded by constituency.(iii) the issues dissuading traders from (a) maintaining; and (b) establishing commercial premises in these centres; (iv) what steps his Department has (a) taken; and (b) planned, to encourage and incentivise more businesses, particularly independent traders, into commercial premises in the constituency’s town centres.While development of policies to improve town centres and draw in more traders is primarily a matter for the relevant district council to take forward, the Department for Communities also has responsibility for regeneration of towns and I understand it has undertaken work in this constituency in recent years. I intend to work with Executive colleagues to consider the recommendations of the High Street Task Force report to address some of the issues facing high street businesses.","answerHtml":"(i) the number of vacant commercial properties in town centres across East Londonderry; (ii) the trends seen in this number, over the last five years; I have consulted with colleagues in the Department of Finance and the Department for Communities and the number of vacant commercial properties in town centres is not recorded by constituency.(iii) the issues dissuading traders from (a) maintaining; and (b) establishing commercial premises in these centres; (iv) what steps his Department has (a) taken; and (b) planned, to encourage and incentivise more businesses, particularly independent traders, into commercial premises in the constituency’s town centres.While development of policies to improve town centres and draw in more traders is primarily a matter for the relevant district council to take forward, the Department for Communities also has responsibility for regeneration of towns and I understand it has undertaken work in this constituency in recent years. I intend to work with Executive colleagues to consider the recommendations of the High Street Task Force report to address some of the issues facing high street businesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206854%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389240"}},{"id":"389239","reference":"AQW 6853/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) their plans to implement a loneliness strategy; (ii) their assessment of the scale and nature of loneliness in Northern Ireland; and (iii) the anticipated cross-departmental work and responsibility that will be required in the formation and roll-out of such a strategy.","answerText":"At this time we have no plans for the Executive Office to develop and implement a cross-departmental loneliness strategy. No assessment has therefore been made of the resources likely to be required to do so.\n\nIn relation to The Executive Office, we are particularly aware of how issues such as social isolation and loneliness impact victims and survivors. Befriending services for victims and survivors are supported through the Victims and Survivors Service’s Health and Wellbeing Casework Network, and we are committed to improving access to services for rural and socially isolated victims and survivors through the new Victims and Survivors Strategy.","answerHtml":"At this time we have no plans for the Executive Office to develop and implement a cross-departmental loneliness strategy. No assessment has therefore been made of the resources likely to be required to do so.
In relation to The Executive Office, we are particularly aware of how issues such as social isolation and loneliness impact victims and survivors. Befriending services for victims and survivors are supported through the Victims and Survivors Service’s Health and Wellbeing Casework Network, and we are committed to improving access to services for rural and socially isolated victims and survivors through the new Victims and Survivors Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206853%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389239"}},{"id":"389238","reference":"AQW 6852/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what (i) support mechanisms; and (ii) legal safeguards are (a) in place; (b) planned, to help those who find themselves in debt to criminal gangs and are forced to undertake criminal activity on their behalf.","answerText":"Addressing the harm that criminal gangs inflict on individuals, communities and our whole society is a key focus for my Department.\n\nMy earlier response to AQW 6162/22-27 referred to the work of the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) which supports those who are vulnerable to all types of such harm. EPPOC data has been instrumental in highlighting previously ‘hidden harms’ such as illegal money lending and coercive control. I also mentioned EPPOC’s ‘Ending the Harm’ campaign (www.endingtheharm.com) which, as well raising awareness, signposts support for those who have become victims.\n\nSome examples of EPPOC-funded projects that support those who may find themselves in debt to criminal gangs are:\n\nThe Mid and East Antrim youth support project which provides multi-agency support for young people (up to 25 years) who are at risk of being involved with, influenced by, or exploited by paramilitary gangs.\n\n‘Engage’ which is an Education Authority-led intensive, specialist outreach and mentoring project working with young people within communities at risk of being harmed by paramilitaries.\n\n'Aspire' which is Probation Board-led project targeting marginalised men who are most susceptible to paramilitary/criminal influence to help them develop alternate coping mechanisms and increase their resilience.\n\nA specific project that works with victims to provide trauma or counselling support, including with issues such as drug debt.\n\nIn addition, in 2024/25 financial year, EPPOC will commence new scoping projects to address areas of concern identified by the programme. This includes work with colleagues in the Department of Health to identify a service response to the issue of drug-related intimidation. Learning from other jurisdictions will be considered in the Northern Ireland context to recommend a comprehensive and appropriate way forward. A similar approach will be taken for a project that looks across the system at how threats to life are currently dealt with, working closely with the range of relevant partners.\n\nThe current phase of EPPOC is due to conclude in March 2025. In due course, consideration will be given across the Executive as to next steps, ensuring that the lessons learned through the programme are embedded and scaled up.\n\nIn Northern Ireland the Child Services Cooperation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 requires statutory agencies to share information in safeguarding cases with the aim of improving outcomes for individuals.","answerHtml":"Addressing the harm that criminal gangs inflict on individuals, communities and our whole society is a key focus for my Department.
My earlier response to AQW 6162/22-27 referred to the work of the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) which supports those who are vulnerable to all types of such harm. EPPOC data has been instrumental in highlighting previously ‘hidden harms’ such as illegal money lending and coercive control. I also mentioned EPPOC’s ‘Ending the Harm’ campaign (www.endingtheharm.com) which, as well raising awareness, signposts support for those who have become victims.
Some examples of EPPOC-funded projects that support those who may find themselves in debt to criminal gangs are:
The Mid and East Antrim youth support project which provides multi-agency support for young people (up to 25 years) who are at risk of being involved with, influenced by, or exploited by paramilitary gangs.
‘Engage’ which is an Education Authority-led intensive, specialist outreach and mentoring project working with young people within communities at risk of being harmed by paramilitaries.
'Aspire' which is Probation Board-led project targeting marginalised men who are most susceptible to paramilitary/criminal influence to help them develop alternate coping mechanisms and increase their resilience.
A specific project that works with victims to provide trauma or counselling support, including with issues such as drug debt.
In addition, in 2024/25 financial year, EPPOC will commence new scoping projects to address areas of concern identified by the programme. This includes work with colleagues in the Department of Health to identify a service response to the issue of drug-related intimidation. Learning from other jurisdictions will be considered in the Northern Ireland context to recommend a comprehensive and appropriate way forward. A similar approach will be taken for a project that looks across the system at how threats to life are currently dealt with, working closely with the range of relevant partners.
The current phase of EPPOC is due to conclude in March 2025. In due course, consideration will be given across the Executive as to next steps, ensuring that the lessons learned through the programme are embedded and scaled up.
In Northern Ireland the Child Services Cooperation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 requires statutory agencies to share information in safeguarding cases with the aim of improving outcomes for individuals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206852%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389238","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389238"}},{"id":"389237","reference":"AQW 6851/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-19","answerBy":"2024-03-05","answered":"2024-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail his plans to reimplement the Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service Plus scheme; and (ii) for his assessment of how this scheme is able to reduce waiting lists and times for treating eye conditions.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service Plus (NI PEARS Plus) pilot commenced in 2023/24 and ran for thirty-three weeks, with 834 patients accessing the community optometry-based service with acute eye conditions which would otherwise have presented at Belfast HSC Trust Eye Casualty.\n\nNI PEARS Plus seeks to build on the successful NI PEARS scheme which currently manages ca. 4,000 patients in community optometry settings, closer to home.\n\nAs per commissioning specification, the pilot is currently being evaluated for impact, assessing metrics around activity, performance, clinical safety, patient experience and cost-effectiveness.\n\ni) Following evaluation, and in consultation with stakeholders, Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) will make a commissioning decision on whether the service should be mainstreamed and introduced regionally, subject to available funding.\n\nii) From the initial data analysis approx. 25 patients per week were diverted from BHSCT Eye Casualty to the NIPEARS Plus service thus releasing capacity in Eye Casualty. Approximately 93% of these patients were managed to completion in primary care with approx. 7% subsequently requiring referral back into Eye Casualty as deemed too complex to be managed in primary care.\n\nThese figures are subject to validation, and the management and outcomes audited for quality and safety. Any subsequent regional roll-out would be expected to have scaled positive impact on waiting lists and times for acute eye care.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service Plus (NI PEARS Plus) pilot commenced in 2023/24 and ran for thirty-three weeks, with 834 patients accessing the community optometry-based service with acute eye conditions which would otherwise have presented at Belfast HSC Trust Eye Casualty.
NI PEARS Plus seeks to build on the successful NI PEARS scheme which currently manages ca. 4,000 patients in community optometry settings, closer to home.
As per commissioning specification, the pilot is currently being evaluated for impact, assessing metrics around activity, performance, clinical safety, patient experience and cost-effectiveness.
i) Following evaluation, and in consultation with stakeholders, Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) will make a commissioning decision on whether the service should be mainstreamed and introduced regionally, subject to available funding.
ii) From the initial data analysis approx. 25 patients per week were diverted from BHSCT Eye Casualty to the NIPEARS Plus service thus releasing capacity in Eye Casualty. Approximately 93% of these patients were managed to completion in primary care with approx. 7% subsequently requiring referral back into Eye Casualty as deemed too complex to be managed in primary care.
These figures are subject to validation, and the management and outcomes audited for quality and safety. Any subsequent regional roll-out would be expected to have scaled positive impact on waiting lists and times for acute eye care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206851%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389237"}},{"id":"389026","reference":"AQW 6715/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-16","answerBy":"2024-03-04","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what role his Department plays, or can play, in (i) preventing livestock thefts; and (ii) assisting with subsequent prosecutions, particularly in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is responsible for enforcing legislation in relation to the theft of livestock.\n\nWhile there is a specific legal obligation to notify my Department of the theft of cattle, and the circumstances around this theft, this is for the purpose of ensuring our identification and registration records are up to date.\n\nMy Department has a strong working relationship with the PSNI and will cooperate with the them in respect of any relevant investigations of livestock theft, as necessary.","answerHtml":"The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) is responsible for enforcing legislation in relation to the theft of livestock.
While there is a specific legal obligation to notify my Department of the theft of cattle, and the circumstances around this theft, this is for the purpose of ensuring our identification and registration records are up to date.
My Department has a strong working relationship with the PSNI and will cooperate with the them in respect of any relevant investigations of livestock theft, as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206715%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389026","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389026"}},{"id":"389025","reference":"AQW 6714/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-16","answerBy":"2024-03-04","answered":"2024-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in light of the increasing cost of household goods, to detail any correspondence he has had, or plans to have, with large supermarkets and retailers, with a view to ensuring consumers get the best possible prices to help ease pressures during the current cost of living crisis.","answerText":"My Department’s Trading Standards Service has been focusing its enforcement efforts on price transparency and ensuring consumers get what they pay for, especially on essential items.\n\nThe Consumer Council, a Partner Organisation of my Department, engages with key stakeholders and representative bodies and shares its research and insights relating to the impact of rising food prices for consumers.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Trading Standards Service has been focusing its enforcement efforts on price transparency and ensuring consumers get what they pay for, especially on essential items.
The Consumer Council, a Partner Organisation of my Department, engages with key stakeholders and representative bodies and shares its research and insights relating to the impact of rising food prices for consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206714%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389025"}},{"id":"389024","reference":"AQW 6713/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-16","answerBy":"2024-03-04","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in light of the increasing cost of household goods, what steps he will take to support those reliant on (i) benefits; (ii) state pensions; and (iii) government and community support schemes to help ease pressures during the current cost of living crisis.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has been at the forefront of delivering support to households impacted by the rising cost of living.\n\nIn response to the cost-of-living and energy crises, the UK Government announced a package of one-off payments for disabled claimants, pensioners and those on income-related benefits. Northern Ireland claimants are included in these payments which are intended to provide additional financial support in response to the rise in the cost of living.\n\nThe most recent Cost of Living Payments have been delivered throughout 2023/24 with a final payment of £299 to eligible people in receipt of an income-related benefit to be paid in February 2024.\n\nFurther information on all cost of living help and support available, including details of cost of living support payments issued, is available at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/cost-living\n\nFrom April 2023, benefits and state pension were increased by 10.1%, in line with the September 2022 rate of inflation. From April 2024 benefits will be increased by 6.7%, in line with the September 2023 rate of inflation, whilst the state pension will be increased by 8.5% in line with the increase in average earnings between May and July 2023.\n\nMy Department also provides help through the Affordable Warmth scheme, as well as the Winter Fuel Payments to those who are eligible. Funding has been allocated to our Social Supermarket Scheme to help those in or at risk of food poverty.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has been at the forefront of delivering support to households impacted by the rising cost of living.
In response to the cost-of-living and energy crises, the UK Government announced a package of one-off payments for disabled claimants, pensioners and those on income-related benefits. Northern Ireland claimants are included in these payments which are intended to provide additional financial support in response to the rise in the cost of living.
The most recent Cost of Living Payments have been delivered throughout 2023/24 with a final payment of £299 to eligible people in receipt of an income-related benefit to be paid in February 2024.
Further information on all cost of living help and support available, including details of cost of living support payments issued, is available at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/cost-living
From April 2023, benefits and state pension were increased by 10.1%, in line with the September 2022 rate of inflation. From April 2024 benefits will be increased by 6.7%, in line with the September 2023 rate of inflation, whilst the state pension will be increased by 8.5% in line with the increase in average earnings between May and July 2023.
My Department also provides help through the Affordable Warmth scheme, as well as the Winter Fuel Payments to those who are eligible. Funding has been allocated to our Social Supermarket Scheme to help those in or at risk of food poverty.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206713%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389024"}},{"id":"389023","reference":"AQW 6712/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-16","answerBy":"2024-03-04","answered":"2024-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any steps she plans to take in relation to (i) the prevention of livestock thefts; and (ii) subsequent prosecutions in (a) East Londonderry; and (b) Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Department of Justice is a member of the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), along with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Club of Ulster, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEARA) and Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs). The partnership shares information on emerging or reoccurring crimes, and will continue to do so, to develop a coordinated response and take preventive action to issues such as livestock theft.\n\nThere has been recent engagement between PSNI and relevant partners on this issue. The policing response however is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Policing Board. You may therefore wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice is a member of the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP), along with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), the Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Club of Ulster, the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEARA) and Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs). The partnership shares information on emerging or reoccurring crimes, and will continue to do so, to develop a coordinated response and take preventive action to issues such as livestock theft.
There has been recent engagement between PSNI and relevant partners on this issue. The policing response however is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Policing Board. You may therefore wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206712%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389023"}},{"id":"389022","reference":"AQW 6711/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-16","answerBy":"2024-03-04","answered":"2024-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of (i) the importance of north coast tourism in helping to achieve Tourism NI’s target of an NI-wide 75 per cent increase in tourism revenue by 2033; (ii) the factors which may negatively impact north coast tourism, including (a) a recurrence of toxic algae blooms; (b) the cost of living crisis; and (c) controls on tourists entering Northern Ireland from the Republic; and (iii) what his Department must do to (a) mitigate these and any other barriers to north coast tourism; and (b) to further develop and increase it.","answerText":"My Department’s draft Tourism Strategy aims to increase the value of tourism to our local economy by 50-75% over the next decade and to support the tourism industry to realise its potential for the future. As an important part of our regional tourism offering, not least due to its iconic experiences and heritage sites, north coast tourism will be an important contributor to that strategic aim.Tourism NI (TNI) acknowledges the vital role of tourism on the North Coast in fulfilling its objectives of achieving a 75% increase in tourism revenue across Northern Ireland by 2033. By fostering strong partnerships with all eleven local authorities across the North including Causeway Coast and Glens Council (CC&GC), TNI convene regular meetings to address priorities aimed at enriching the tourism sector throughout the North Coast region. The Causeway Coast and Glens (CC&G) has the second largest number of all overnight trips (after Belfast) and the highest proportion of overnight holiday trips in all Council areas. TNI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025, including engagement with the Council and the business community to optimise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. TNI are also working in partnership with Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland to deliver a Shared Island programme to develop linkages between the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW) and Causeway Coastal Route (CCR) This work will be carried out in 2024 and all key stakeholders will be engaged before recommendations are supplied. There are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. All of these initiatives will further develop the north coast tourism offering and help achieve the 75% target increase in tourism revenue. No doubt factors outside the control of my Department including the cost of living crisis and the recurrence of toxic algae blooms may well have some impact on tourism throughout the North including the north coast but I will be working alongside my Executive colleagues to ensure these impacts are mitigated in a proportionate way.I am concerned about the impact of the introduction of the British Government's Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme on our tourism sector. I have met with the NI Tourism Alliance to discuss this vital issue and to hear at first hand the industry’s concerns. I intend to raise this matter with the Home Office to try to find a solution that protects our tourism industry.","answerHtml":"My Department’s draft Tourism Strategy aims to increase the value of tourism to our local economy by 50-75% over the next decade and to support the tourism industry to realise its potential for the future. As an important part of our regional tourism offering, not least due to its iconic experiences and heritage sites, north coast tourism will be an important contributor to that strategic aim.Tourism NI (TNI) acknowledges the vital role of tourism on the North Coast in fulfilling its objectives of achieving a 75% increase in tourism revenue across Northern Ireland by 2033. By fostering strong partnerships with all eleven local authorities across the North including Causeway Coast and Glens Council (CC&GC), TNI convene regular meetings to address priorities aimed at enriching the tourism sector throughout the North Coast region. The Causeway Coast and Glens (CC&G) has the second largest number of all overnight trips (after Belfast) and the highest proportion of overnight holiday trips in all Council areas. TNI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025, including engagement with the Council and the business community to optimise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. TNI are also working in partnership with Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland to deliver a Shared Island programme to develop linkages between the Wild Atlantic Way (WAW) and Causeway Coastal Route (CCR) This work will be carried out in 2024 and all key stakeholders will be engaged before recommendations are supplied. There are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. All of these initiatives will further develop the north coast tourism offering and help achieve the 75% target increase in tourism revenue. No doubt factors outside the control of my Department including the cost of living crisis and the recurrence of toxic algae blooms may well have some impact on tourism throughout the North including the north coast but I will be working alongside my Executive colleagues to ensure these impacts are mitigated in a proportionate way.I am concerned about the impact of the introduction of the British Government's Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme on our tourism sector. I have met with the NI Tourism Alliance to discuss this vital issue and to hear at first hand the industry’s concerns. I intend to raise this matter with the Home Office to try to find a solution that protects our tourism industry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206711%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389022"}},{"id":"388656","reference":"AQW 6578/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any plans she has to introduce pre-recorded evidence gathering from victims, to prevent repeated questioning and re-traumatisation.","answerText":"My Department is leading multi-agency preparatory work to support a pilot project to test pre-recorded cross-examination in serious sexual offence cases involving very young complainants. There are interdependencies with other child focused workstreams and work is ongoing to resolve outstanding issues, however, significant progress has been made. Launch of the pathfinder project will be subject to the agreement of partner organisations and to securing funding.","answerHtml":"My Department is leading multi-agency preparatory work to support a pilot project to test pre-recorded cross-examination in serious sexual offence cases involving very young complainants. There are interdependencies with other child focused workstreams and work is ongoing to resolve outstanding issues, however, significant progress has been made. Launch of the pathfinder project will be subject to the agreement of partner organisations and to securing funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206578%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388656"}},{"id":"388655","reference":"AQW 6577/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps he is taking to minimise duplication of paper correspondence to members of the public, while ensuring an appropriate form of correspondence for those not comfortable using digital solutions.","answerText":"My Department works closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to continually develop and modernise our benefit systems to reduce clerical and paper based processes. Recent examples of enhanced digitalisation in benefit administration include the new Get Your State Pension service and Universal Credit, where claimants can apply for benefit, maintain their claim and interact with staff online.\n\nWork continues to develop increasingly digital solutions to modernise many of its complex range of older benefit systems, which will further improve digitalisation and the potential to reduce incidences of duplicate paper correspondence.\n\nClaimants who are uncomfortable with, or not able to use, digital channels can continue to access support through our benefit specific telephony teams or in person at one of our 35 local Jobs and Benefit offices.","answerHtml":"My Department works closely with the Department for Work and Pensions to continually develop and modernise our benefit systems to reduce clerical and paper based processes. Recent examples of enhanced digitalisation in benefit administration include the new Get Your State Pension service and Universal Credit, where claimants can apply for benefit, maintain their claim and interact with staff online.
Work continues to develop increasingly digital solutions to modernise many of its complex range of older benefit systems, which will further improve digitalisation and the potential to reduce incidences of duplicate paper correspondence.
Claimants who are uncomfortable with, or not able to use, digital channels can continue to access support through our benefit specific telephony teams or in person at one of our 35 local Jobs and Benefit offices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206577%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388655"}},{"id":"388654","reference":"AQW 6576/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the Northern Ireland Affairs Committee’s report The Effect of Paramilitary Activity and Organised Crime on Society in Northern Ireland; and (ii) how he will work with the Minister of Justice to protect people and communities from becoming vulnerable to, and victims of, criminal gangs.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report outlines the complexity of the challenges we face and how important a co-ordinated approach across government is to addressing the effects paramilitary activity and organised crime have on vulnerable individuals, communities and wider society.\n\nThe recommendations in the report highlight issues such as illegal lending, the targeting and exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including those in financial hardship, and notes the correlation between paramilitary activity, deprivation, and mental health issues.\n\nI agree that the approach to tackling paramilitarism and organised crime must be co-ordinated and has to involve all the relevant Government Departments, statutory bodies, local community organisations and wider society.\n\nWith regard to working with the Minister of Justice I can confirm that my officials will continue to work closely with their colleagues in the Department of Justice to deliver elements of the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC). This includes working with other Government Departments, the PSNI, voluntary and community sector organisations, sporting and cultural bodies and local groups to increase awareness, build confidence and develop skills that create greater community resilience and confidence.\n\nIn addition, my Department will continue to support vulnerable individuals and communities through a range of programmes and services including the Neighbourhood Renewal programme, advice on debt management, funding for emergency food provision, training and employment support.\n\nThese interventions, and the ongoing support for community infrastructure, all make a positive contribution to the Executives long term goal of addressing the complex issues and challenges associated with protecting vulnerable people and communities from paramilitarism, criminality and coercive control.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee report outlines the complexity of the challenges we face and how important a co-ordinated approach across government is to addressing the effects paramilitary activity and organised crime have on vulnerable individuals, communities and wider society.
The recommendations in the report highlight issues such as illegal lending, the targeting and exploitation of vulnerable individuals, including those in financial hardship, and notes the correlation between paramilitary activity, deprivation, and mental health issues.
I agree that the approach to tackling paramilitarism and organised crime must be co-ordinated and has to involve all the relevant Government Departments, statutory bodies, local community organisations and wider society.
With regard to working with the Minister of Justice I can confirm that my officials will continue to work closely with their colleagues in the Department of Justice to deliver elements of the Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC). This includes working with other Government Departments, the PSNI, voluntary and community sector organisations, sporting and cultural bodies and local groups to increase awareness, build confidence and develop skills that create greater community resilience and confidence.
In addition, my Department will continue to support vulnerable individuals and communities through a range of programmes and services including the Neighbourhood Renewal programme, advice on debt management, funding for emergency food provision, training and employment support.
These interventions, and the ongoing support for community infrastructure, all make a positive contribution to the Executives long term goal of addressing the complex issues and challenges associated with protecting vulnerable people and communities from paramilitarism, criminality and coercive control.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206576%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388654"}},{"id":"388653","reference":"AQW 6575/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the number of pupils with special educational needs increasing by 5,000 between 2019 and 2024.","answerText":"School census data indicates that the number of pupils with statements of special educational needs (SEN) has increased from 19,208 in 2019/20 to 24,283 in 2022/23, a rise of around 5,000.\n\nIt is important to understand causes and links to inform and shape future policy decisions. In the absence of epidemiological studies, increased trends in SEN are not unique to Northern Ireland. However, the challenge is more acute as evidenced by the Independent Review of Education (December 2023), which pointed to the proportion of pupils with a statement of SEN in Northern Ireland being 2.5% higher by comparison to England with an estimated additional cost that must be found from within the overall education budget of approximately £136m.\n\nResearch has considered possible causal factors behind the rising numbers of children with SEN and it is clear that education alone cannot address all of the issues. In addition to advances in medical science, evidence would suggest that there is a range of other relevant contributory factors unique to our circumstances. The ongoing legacy of the troubles can manifest itself through collective community trauma which sees those areas with high levels of poverty, disadvantage, poor health, low educational attainment and high unemployment moderately correlating with high levels of SEN and complex needs.\n\nImportantly, research points to weaknesses in the current system as being key contributory factors to rising needs, some of which are a consequence of the under-investment in education. The lack of an effective model of early intervention that meets presenting needs at the right time may lead to more complex levels of need that often require costlier interventions. The school estate also fails to provide suitable learning environments for children whose needs are such that they require appropriate breakout space to enable them to self-regulate or to learn in smaller class settings.\n\nThe End-to-End (E2E) Review of SEN and associated workstreams have been established to ensure that the systemic reform needed to provide quality outcomes for our children and young people with SEN is implemented.","answerHtml":"School census data indicates that the number of pupils with statements of special educational needs (SEN) has increased from 19,208 in 2019/20 to 24,283 in 2022/23, a rise of around 5,000.
It is important to understand causes and links to inform and shape future policy decisions. In the absence of epidemiological studies, increased trends in SEN are not unique to Northern Ireland. However, the challenge is more acute as evidenced by the Independent Review of Education (December 2023), which pointed to the proportion of pupils with a statement of SEN in Northern Ireland being 2.5% higher by comparison to England with an estimated additional cost that must be found from within the overall education budget of approximately £136m.
Research has considered possible causal factors behind the rising numbers of children with SEN and it is clear that education alone cannot address all of the issues. In addition to advances in medical science, evidence would suggest that there is a range of other relevant contributory factors unique to our circumstances. The ongoing legacy of the troubles can manifest itself through collective community trauma which sees those areas with high levels of poverty, disadvantage, poor health, low educational attainment and high unemployment moderately correlating with high levels of SEN and complex needs.
Importantly, research points to weaknesses in the current system as being key contributory factors to rising needs, some of which are a consequence of the under-investment in education. The lack of an effective model of early intervention that meets presenting needs at the right time may lead to more complex levels of need that often require costlier interventions. The school estate also fails to provide suitable learning environments for children whose needs are such that they require appropriate breakout space to enable them to self-regulate or to learn in smaller class settings.
The End-to-End (E2E) Review of SEN and associated workstreams have been established to ensure that the systemic reform needed to provide quality outcomes for our children and young people with SEN is implemented.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206575%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388653"}},{"id":"388652","reference":"AQW 6574/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-15","answerBy":"2024-03-01","answered":"2024-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the increasing number of people on NHS waiting lists who subsequently opt to pay privately for treatment.","answerText":"Waiting lists in Northern Ireland are wholly unacceptable. I am aware that as a consequence of this, some patients opt to pay privately for their assessments and treatment rather than waiting. My Department does not hold the detail on the number of patients that this applies to.\n\nTackling our lengthy waiting times is one of my priorities and is indeed an Executive priority. The Elective Care Framework published in 2021 sets out a detailed plan for addressing hospital waiting lists. Much good work is underway to tackle the backlog of patients waiting, for example through the development of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres and mega clinics. In addition, my Department is working with Trusts to increase productivity and efficiency through the use of a wide range of best practice service improvements.\n\nTackling waiting lists is however undoubtedly a long-term issue that requires sustainable and recurrent funding, workforce development and system wide transformation.","answerHtml":"Waiting lists in Northern Ireland are wholly unacceptable. I am aware that as a consequence of this, some patients opt to pay privately for their assessments and treatment rather than waiting. My Department does not hold the detail on the number of patients that this applies to.
Tackling our lengthy waiting times is one of my priorities and is indeed an Executive priority. The Elective Care Framework published in 2021 sets out a detailed plan for addressing hospital waiting lists. Much good work is underway to tackle the backlog of patients waiting, for example through the development of elective care centres, rapid diagnosis centres and mega clinics. In addition, my Department is working with Trusts to increase productivity and efficiency through the use of a wide range of best practice service improvements.
Tackling waiting lists is however undoubtedly a long-term issue that requires sustainable and recurrent funding, workforce development and system wide transformation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206574%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388652"}},{"id":"388433","reference":"AQW 6428/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what plans he has to make the £1 million in funds previously unspent by Sport NI available to sporting clubs and organisations; and (ii) whether this money can be used to safeguard the short-term future of the North West 200.","answerText":"As it is not possible to carry monies from one financial year into the next, the Sport NI easements were used to address other Departmental pressures in the relevant financial years.","answerHtml":"As it is not possible to carry monies from one financial year into the next, the Sport NI easements were used to address other Departmental pressures in the relevant financial years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206428%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388433"}},{"id":"388432","reference":"AQW 6427/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many people sought (a) treatment; and (b) support for eating disorders, in each of the past five years; (ii) for his assessment of how successfully eating disorders are being identified and treated by his Department; and (iii) to outline the (a) challenges involved; and (b) future steps that will need to be taken to reduce and eradicate eating disorders.","answerText":"how many people sought (a) treatment; and (b) support for eating disorders, in each of the past five years;\n\nCommunity Adult Mental Health Referrals Accepted by Eating Disorder Services by Fiscal Year and HSC Trust, from 2018/19 to 2023/24 year to date (January 2024)\n\nHCS Trust\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t23/24 to January 2024\nBelfast and South Eastern\t162\t156\t123\t139\t114\t91\nNorthern\t106\t104\t78*\t105*\t198*\t98\nSouthern\t133\t148\t140\t182\t124\t102\nWestern\t121\t126\t123\t118\t119\t125\nNI Region\t522\t534\t464*\t544*\t555*\t416\n\nSources: Monthly Non Inpatient Mental Health Returns from HSC Trusts\n\n*Proxy Figures have been included for the Northern Trust figures for Adult Eating Disorders as shown in red. This is due to limitations in data availability arising from Information System migration from EPEX to PARIS:\n\n2020/21 - Full Year effect based on data up to 24th February 2021 only.\n\n2021/22 - Proxy figures for full year based on average of 3 years data.\n\n2022/23 - Full year effect based on data for February and March 2023.\n\nProxy figures are include in the regional totals.\n\nChild and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMHS) Referrals Accepted by Eating Disorder Services by Fiscal Year and HSC Trust, from 2018/19 to 2023/24 year to date (January 2024)\n\nFiscal Year\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\t2022/23\t23/24 to January 2024\nBelfast and South Eastern\t45\t67\t99\t96\t73\t37\nNorthern\t40\t61\t67\t74\t56\t12\nSouthern\t36\t34\t53\t79\t43\t16\nWestern\t48\t45\t47\t65\t38\t8\nNI Region\t169\t207\t266\t314\t210\t73\n\nSources: Monthly CAMHS MDS Returns from HSC Trusts\n\nGeneral Caveats /Notes - Please read\n\n1.The figures provided above are the numbers of referrals accepted into Eating Disorder Services for Adults and Children, for the fiscal years 2018/19 to 2023/24 year to date (January 2024). Please bear in mind that figures in 2020/21 are likely to be impacted by COVID-19.\n\n2. The information provided is in relation to referrals, not 'people'. It is not possible to determine whether there are multiple referrals for individuals as the information submitted by HSC Trusts is in an aggregated format and cannot be disaggregated.\n\n3. Belfast Trust provides an Eating Disorder service for residents of the South Eastern Trust area.\n\nfor his assessment of how successfully eating disorders are being identified and treated by his Department;\n\nThere are currently four adult Eating Disorder Specialist Teams across the five Health and Social Care Trusts. The Belfast Trust and South Eastern Trust is represented by one team. These teams have developed community based psychological therapy services using evidence-based treatments as per National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance. They work to the Regional Care Pathway for the Treatment of Eating Disorders (2016). The care pathway outlines what people can expect if they are referred for treatment and provides summary of clinical advice derived from evidence-based practice. It also includes information to assist people with self-care and accessing other supports before, during and after treatment\n\nThe Regional Eating Disorder Network Group (REDNG) ensures local developments are coherent and standardised as far as possible. Representation on the REDNG is lifespan and includes individuals from Strategic Planning and Performance Group, Public Health Agency, Health and Social Care Trusts including, Eating Disorder Service Clinical Leads, Team Leads and Clinical Service Managers, Psychology nominee (nominated on behalf of psychology services in all Trusts) , experts of experience encompassing the voluntary sector, service users and carers, Trust service managers and Department of Health policy representatives. The role of the REDNG is to promote the uniformity of approaches to patients across Trusts and share best practice and learning from service developments. It provides a consistent and equitable approach across NI to the planning and commissioning of high quality, effective and accessible treatment for service users. Standards are based upon those laid out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence). REDNG does currently fulfil that function, aiming to:\n\nimprove outcomes for those who require Eating Disorder Services\n\npromote collaborative working between the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, Trusts, Department of Health Policy, Statutory Services and the Community & Voluntary Sector\n\ninvolve service users and carers in service developments\n\nensure workforce development and sustainability\n\naddress any teaching and training needs\n\nestablish/promote gold standard clinical practice\n\nCurrently a clinical lead and Network Manager are being recruited for the REDNG in order to support better eating disorder identification and treatment.\n\nto outline the (a) challenges involved; and (b) future steps that will need to be taken to reduce and eradicate eating disorders\n\nTrusts are experiencing challenges and significant pressures as a consequence of increased demands upon services, including increased numbers of new referrals, increased complexity and acuity of people presenting to the service and significant workforce pressures as the result of increased vacancy levels.\n\nAction 29 of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 commits to ensure there are specialist interventions available to those who need it. 29d commits to enhance the regional eating disorder service.\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 notes provision of services for people with an eating disorder, recognising the benefits of REDNG, whilst acknowledging outcomes for these patients could be improved. In particular, evidence suggests that early intervention is key. This means supporting services to offer specialist treatment to all those who are presenting with eating disorders, including mild to moderate cases, without delay.\n\nThe Strategy highlights the need for further investment so that eating disorder services can achieve optimum staffing levels and skill mix to deliver effective care across the pathways, to include additional medical, nursing, dietetic, psychology, occupational therapy and social work staff working in the community, and providing in-reach to medical and mental health wards. The Strategy also highlights the need for local in-patient units, medical and mental health, with in-reach and clinical consultation and the need to ensure sufficient staffing levels for the management of high-risk patients with eating disorders.\n\nA business case is in development in relation to Action 29 d and a number of workshops have been held with key stakeholders involved in Eating Disorder Services to shape direction and identify the case for change, based on the current service model, emerging need and setting future vision for the service.","answerHtml":"how many people sought (a) treatment; and (b) support for eating disorders, in each of the past five years;
Community Adult Mental Health Referrals Accepted by Eating Disorder Services by Fiscal Year and HSC Trust, from 2018/19 to 2023/24 year to date (January 2024)
| HCS Trust | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 23/24 to January 2024 |
| Belfast and South Eastern | 162 | 156 | 123 | 139 | 114 | 91 |
| Northern | 106 | 104 | 78* | 105* | 198* | 98 |
| Southern | 133 | 148 | 140 | 182 | 124 | 102 |
| Western | 121 | 126 | 123 | 118 | 119 | 125 |
| NI Region | 522 | 534 | 464* | 544* | 555* | 416 |
Sources: Monthly Non Inpatient Mental Health Returns from HSC Trusts
*Proxy Figures have been included for the Northern Trust figures for Adult Eating Disorders as shown in red. This is due to limitations in data availability arising from Information System migration from EPEX to PARIS:
2020/21 - Full Year effect based on data up to 24th February 2021 only.
2021/22 - Proxy figures for full year based on average of 3 years data.
2022/23 - Full year effect based on data for February and March 2023.
Proxy figures are include in the regional totals.
Child and Adolescent Mental Health (CAMHS) Referrals Accepted by Eating Disorder Services by Fiscal Year and HSC Trust, from 2018/19 to 2023/24 year to date (January 2024)
| Fiscal Year | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 | 23/24 to January 2024 |
| Belfast and South Eastern | 45 | 67 | 99 | 96 | 73 | 37 |
| Northern | 40 | 61 | 67 | 74 | 56 | 12 |
| Southern | 36 | 34 | 53 | 79 | 43 | 16 |
| Western | 48 | 45 | 47 | 65 | 38 | 8 |
| NI Region | 169 | 207 | 266 | 314 | 210 | 73 |
Sources: Monthly CAMHS MDS Returns from HSC Trusts
General Caveats /Notes - Please read
1.The figures provided above are the numbers of referrals accepted into Eating Disorder Services for Adults and Children, for the fiscal years 2018/19 to 2023/24 year to date (January 2024). Please bear in mind that figures in 2020/21 are likely to be impacted by COVID-19.
2. The information provided is in relation to referrals, not 'people'. It is not possible to determine whether there are multiple referrals for individuals as the information submitted by HSC Trusts is in an aggregated format and cannot be disaggregated.
3. Belfast Trust provides an Eating Disorder service for residents of the South Eastern Trust area.
for his assessment of how successfully eating disorders are being identified and treated by his Department;
There are currently four adult Eating Disorder Specialist Teams across the five Health and Social Care Trusts. The Belfast Trust and South Eastern Trust is represented by one team. These teams have developed community based psychological therapy services using evidence-based treatments as per National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidance. They work to the Regional Care Pathway for the Treatment of Eating Disorders (2016). The care pathway outlines what people can expect if they are referred for treatment and provides summary of clinical advice derived from evidence-based practice. It also includes information to assist people with self-care and accessing other supports before, during and after treatment
The Regional Eating Disorder Network Group (REDNG) ensures local developments are coherent and standardised as far as possible. Representation on the REDNG is lifespan and includes individuals from Strategic Planning and Performance Group, Public Health Agency, Health and Social Care Trusts including, Eating Disorder Service Clinical Leads, Team Leads and Clinical Service Managers, Psychology nominee (nominated on behalf of psychology services in all Trusts) , experts of experience encompassing the voluntary sector, service users and carers, Trust service managers and Department of Health policy representatives. The role of the REDNG is to promote the uniformity of approaches to patients across Trusts and share best practice and learning from service developments. It provides a consistent and equitable approach across NI to the planning and commissioning of high quality, effective and accessible treatment for service users. Standards are based upon those laid out by the Royal College of Psychiatrists and NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence). REDNG does currently fulfil that function, aiming to:
improve outcomes for those who require Eating Disorder Services
promote collaborative working between the Strategic Planning and Performance Group, Trusts, Department of Health Policy, Statutory Services and the Community & Voluntary Sector
involve service users and carers in service developments
ensure workforce development and sustainability
address any teaching and training needs
establish/promote gold standard clinical practice
Currently a clinical lead and Network Manager are being recruited for the REDNG in order to support better eating disorder identification and treatment.
to outline the (a) challenges involved; and (b) future steps that will need to be taken to reduce and eradicate eating disorders
Trusts are experiencing challenges and significant pressures as a consequence of increased demands upon services, including increased numbers of new referrals, increased complexity and acuity of people presenting to the service and significant workforce pressures as the result of increased vacancy levels.
Action 29 of the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 commits to ensure there are specialist interventions available to those who need it. 29d commits to enhance the regional eating disorder service.
The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 notes provision of services for people with an eating disorder, recognising the benefits of REDNG, whilst acknowledging outcomes for these patients could be improved. In particular, evidence suggests that early intervention is key. This means supporting services to offer specialist treatment to all those who are presenting with eating disorders, including mild to moderate cases, without delay.
The Strategy highlights the need for further investment so that eating disorder services can achieve optimum staffing levels and skill mix to deliver effective care across the pathways, to include additional medical, nursing, dietetic, psychology, occupational therapy and social work staff working in the community, and providing in-reach to medical and mental health wards. The Strategy also highlights the need for local in-patient units, medical and mental health, with in-reach and clinical consultation and the need to ensure sufficient staffing levels for the management of high-risk patients with eating disorders.
A business case is in development in relation to Action 29 d and a number of workshops have been held with key stakeholders involved in Eating Disorder Services to shape direction and identify the case for change, based on the current service model, emerging need and setting future vision for the service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206427%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388432","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388432"}},{"id":"388431","reference":"AQW 6426/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what public health programmes and policies he will initiate to help people protect themselves from developing cancer.","answerText":"My Department leads on a number of strategies that are designed to help improve population health and wellbeing through encouraging people to live healthier lives and reduce the prevalence of cancer risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, obesity, nutrition and lack of physical activity, and ultraviolet radiation exposure.\n\nThese strategies are implemented by the Public Health Agency through a number of supporting policies, public information campaigns, community pharmacies, as well as online resources and other specific services such as specialist stop smoking services.","answerHtml":"My Department leads on a number of strategies that are designed to help improve population health and wellbeing through encouraging people to live healthier lives and reduce the prevalence of cancer risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, obesity, nutrition and lack of physical activity, and ultraviolet radiation exposure.
These strategies are implemented by the Public Health Agency through a number of supporting policies, public information campaigns, community pharmacies, as well as online resources and other specific services such as specialist stop smoking services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206426%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388431"}},{"id":"388430","reference":"AQW 6425/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the potential benefits of the pilot scheme to film the delivery of judgments in the Court of Appeal, both in this setting and any future use of filming in the wider courts system.","answerText":"The pilot scheme by the Lady Chief Justice for filming in courts represents an important step forward in opening up our courts and engendering a better understanding of the legal system. Allowing broadcasting in courts would increase transparency and enable the public to view decisions being made by the judiciary.\n\nI look forward to seeing the evaluation of the pilot scheme and engaging with the Lady Chief Justice on any recommendations that might be brought forward.","answerHtml":"The pilot scheme by the Lady Chief Justice for filming in courts represents an important step forward in opening up our courts and engendering a better understanding of the legal system. Allowing broadcasting in courts would increase transparency and enable the public to view decisions being made by the judiciary.
I look forward to seeing the evaluation of the pilot scheme and engaging with the Lady Chief Justice on any recommendations that might be brought forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206425%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388430"}},{"id":"388429","reference":"AQW 6424/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-14","answerBy":"2024-02-29","answered":"2024-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans his Department has to (i) reinstate the Affordable Warmth, boiler replacement and other schemes; and (ii) create new schemes; (iii) change eligibility thresholds of existing schemes in order to reduce the impact of the cost of living crisis.","answerText":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme is currently open to applications and is set to run until March 2026. The Scheme continues to assist low-income owner-occupiers and households in the private rented sector, with an annual household income of less than £23,000. To make an application to the Affordable Warmth Scheme, customers can contact the NI Energy Advice Service via: 0800 1114455 or email: NIenergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk\n\nMy Department is currently in the early stages of developing a new fuel poverty intervention that will replace the current Affordable Warmth Scheme when it ends. This new scheme will align with the Energy and Green Growth Strategies, Climate Change Act and support the principles of the new Fuel Poverty Strategy. My officials are also exploring the option of low carbon heating solutions along with other energy efficiency measures and will consider the eligibility and income thresholds in the development of the new scheme. The consideration of new thresholds will form part of planned stakeholder engagement workshops.\n\nIn September 2023 my Department announced the closure of the Boiler Replacement Scheme due to budgetary constraints. Prior to the budget decision, the Scheme had seen a significant decrease in both the number of enquiries and application forms received in the previous two financial years, which was further evident again this year. Additionally, the current Scheme replaced fossil fuel heating systems without the option of more efficient, low carbon heating.","answerHtml":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme is currently open to applications and is set to run until March 2026. The Scheme continues to assist low-income owner-occupiers and households in the private rented sector, with an annual household income of less than £23,000. To make an application to the Affordable Warmth Scheme, customers can contact the NI Energy Advice Service via: 0800 1114455 or email: NIenergyadvice@nihe.gov.uk
My Department is currently in the early stages of developing a new fuel poverty intervention that will replace the current Affordable Warmth Scheme when it ends. This new scheme will align with the Energy and Green Growth Strategies, Climate Change Act and support the principles of the new Fuel Poverty Strategy. My officials are also exploring the option of low carbon heating solutions along with other energy efficiency measures and will consider the eligibility and income thresholds in the development of the new scheme. The consideration of new thresholds will form part of planned stakeholder engagement workshops.
In September 2023 my Department announced the closure of the Boiler Replacement Scheme due to budgetary constraints. Prior to the budget decision, the Scheme had seen a significant decrease in both the number of enquiries and application forms received in the previous two financial years, which was further evident again this year. Additionally, the current Scheme replaced fossil fuel heating systems without the option of more efficient, low carbon heating.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206424%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388429"}},{"id":"388266","reference":"AQW 6307/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-13","answerBy":"2024-02-28","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the steps his Department is taking to reduce farm-related accidents, injuries and deaths.","answerText":"I am committed to ongoing engagement with colleagues in the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) who have lead responsibility for workplace Health and Safety, including on farms.\n\nSignificant improvement in understanding of the factors associated with incidents on farms has developed in recent years and this has informed the work of the Farm Safety Partnership (FSP). The key aim of the partnership is for all stakeholders to work together to develop and deliver a ‘Farm Safety Action Plan’ that will drive improvement of safety standards on Northern Ireland farms. All partners have been working collaboratively to develop a new Action Plan that will span the years 2024 to 2026.\n\nMy department contributes directly to the Farm Safety Action Plan across a number of themes, including the FSP’s 'Stop and Think SAFE' farm safety multi-media campaign, which was developed by the Partnership to help tackle the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland's farms. This campaign draws attention to the four main causes of fatalities on our farms - Slurry, Animals, Falls (from height) and Equipment.\n\nDAERA also supports the HSENI Farm Safety calendar. The calendar features images from posters created by primary school children with the theme of ‘Avoid Harm on the Farm’. Over 43,000 calendars are produced annually and are distributed to all rural primary schools in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) ensures that farm safety is a key component of all agriculture education programmes that are delivered. For example, all new full-time, Further Education agriculture students participate in the ‘Yellow Wellies’ Farm Safety initiative which is delivered by the Farm Safety Foundation. Health and safety and the requirement for students to carry out risk assessments is also integrated into the practical activities undertaken by students studying at all levels at the College. CAFRE also provide tractor driving courses to young people aged between 13 and 15 years old. This course has a particular emphasis on health and safety.\n\nHealth and safety also features across CAFRE’s industry training provision. Farmers participating in Business Development Groups (BDG) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) programmes receive regular opportunities to discuss health and safety issues at BDG meetings and during bespoke FFKS training events.\n\nDAERA has also recently commissioned a three-year research project to determine how behavioural and cultural change can be influenced to effect safety improvements in the NI farming sector.\n\nIn conclusion, my department maintains a firm focus on reducing the incidence of injuries and fatalities on farms and we will continue to actively engage in the Farm Safety Partnership to improve health and safety outcomes for farmers, their families and their employees on all farms across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ongoing engagement with colleagues in the Health and Safety Executive for Northern Ireland (HSENI) who have lead responsibility for workplace Health and Safety, including on farms.
Significant improvement in understanding of the factors associated with incidents on farms has developed in recent years and this has informed the work of the Farm Safety Partnership (FSP). The key aim of the partnership is for all stakeholders to work together to develop and deliver a ‘Farm Safety Action Plan’ that will drive improvement of safety standards on Northern Ireland farms. All partners have been working collaboratively to develop a new Action Plan that will span the years 2024 to 2026.
My department contributes directly to the Farm Safety Action Plan across a number of themes, including the FSP’s 'Stop and Think SAFE' farm safety multi-media campaign, which was developed by the Partnership to help tackle the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland's farms. This campaign draws attention to the four main causes of fatalities on our farms - Slurry, Animals, Falls (from height) and Equipment.
DAERA also supports the HSENI Farm Safety calendar. The calendar features images from posters created by primary school children with the theme of ‘Avoid Harm on the Farm’. Over 43,000 calendars are produced annually and are distributed to all rural primary schools in Northern Ireland.
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) ensures that farm safety is a key component of all agriculture education programmes that are delivered. For example, all new full-time, Further Education agriculture students participate in the ‘Yellow Wellies’ Farm Safety initiative which is delivered by the Farm Safety Foundation. Health and safety and the requirement for students to carry out risk assessments is also integrated into the practical activities undertaken by students studying at all levels at the College. CAFRE also provide tractor driving courses to young people aged between 13 and 15 years old. This course has a particular emphasis on health and safety.
Health and safety also features across CAFRE’s industry training provision. Farmers participating in Business Development Groups (BDG) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) programmes receive regular opportunities to discuss health and safety issues at BDG meetings and during bespoke FFKS training events.
DAERA has also recently commissioned a three-year research project to determine how behavioural and cultural change can be influenced to effect safety improvements in the NI farming sector.
In conclusion, my department maintains a firm focus on reducing the incidence of injuries and fatalities on farms and we will continue to actively engage in the Farm Safety Partnership to improve health and safety outcomes for farmers, their families and their employees on all farms across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206307%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388266"}},{"id":"388265","reference":"AQW 6306/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-13","answerBy":"2024-02-28","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps he is taking to ensure people making a claim for Universal Credit receive their full entitlement ahead of the benefit uprating in April.","answerText":"The next annual uprating of benefit will occur on 8 April 2024 and new rates of the various Universal Credit entitlements will be automatically applied by the UC computer system to monthly assessment periods that commence on or after this date.\n\nMy Department is confident that all new eligible claims to Universal Credit with a monthly assessment period that ends in advance of 8 April 2024 will be paid in full and on time. Thereby ensuring they will automatically receive the financial benefit of uprating on or after 8 April 2024.","answerHtml":"The next annual uprating of benefit will occur on 8 April 2024 and new rates of the various Universal Credit entitlements will be automatically applied by the UC computer system to monthly assessment periods that commence on or after this date.
My Department is confident that all new eligible claims to Universal Credit with a monthly assessment period that ends in advance of 8 April 2024 will be paid in full and on time. Thereby ensuring they will automatically receive the financial benefit of uprating on or after 8 April 2024.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206306%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388265","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388265"}},{"id":"388264","reference":"AQW 6305/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-13","answerBy":"2024-02-28","answered":"2024-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what steps he will take to ensure farmers who rear 100 per cent grass-fed cattle will not be disadvantaged by the lowering of the age at which cattle go to slaughter in the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme; and (ii) for his assessment of the potential and inadvertent risks, of raising the carbon footprint per kilo of beef, should more cattle farmers switch to feeding their animals a meal-based diet.","answerText":"The age at slaughter of finished beef cattle is strongly influenced by management decisions and the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme does not confer a specific disadvantage on any one system of production. Evidence collated by my Department shows that 80% of animals are already slaughtered at or below the Year 1 target for the Scheme of 30 months. The targets set in the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme by no measure represent or require an intensive production system. Additional purchased feedstuffs can be avoided through better grassland management within a grass-based production system, as well as better attention to animal health and better genetics. This will be the focus of the knowledge transfer programmes that my Department’s College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, (CAFRE) will be providing, as well as other aspects of the Farm Support and Development Programme.","answerHtml":"The age at slaughter of finished beef cattle is strongly influenced by management decisions and the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme does not confer a specific disadvantage on any one system of production. Evidence collated by my Department shows that 80% of animals are already slaughtered at or below the Year 1 target for the Scheme of 30 months. The targets set in the Beef Carbon Reduction Scheme by no measure represent or require an intensive production system. Additional purchased feedstuffs can be avoided through better grassland management within a grass-based production system, as well as better attention to animal health and better genetics. This will be the focus of the knowledge transfer programmes that my Department’s College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, (CAFRE) will be providing, as well as other aspects of the Farm Support and Development Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206305%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388264","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388264"}},{"id":"388263","reference":"AQW 6304/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-13","answerBy":"2024-02-28","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of how health workers’ pay increases will be sustained in future years if money from the additional £3.3 billion deal recently agreed with the UK government is not replicated in future years.","answerText":"The Executive is united on the need to resolve public sector pay disputes and rebuild public services. To that end, we have jointly written to the Prime Minister to seek an improved financial settlement.\n\nI will continue to make the case for much-needed additional funding for health and social care.","answerHtml":"The Executive is united on the need to resolve public sector pay disputes and rebuild public services. To that end, we have jointly written to the Prime Minister to seek an improved financial settlement.
I will continue to make the case for much-needed additional funding for health and social care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206304%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388263","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388263"}},{"id":"388262","reference":"AQW 6303/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-13","answerBy":"2024-02-28","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans he has to reintroduce the Right to Buy scheme for residents of Housing Association properties.","answerText":"The Housing Amendment Act (NI) 2020 ended the House Sales Scheme for tenants of Registered Housing Associations. The Act made provision for Housing Associations to offer a voluntary House Sales Scheme to their tenants. This will be a decision for individual Housing Associations and their Boards.","answerHtml":"The Housing Amendment Act (NI) 2020 ended the House Sales Scheme for tenants of Registered Housing Associations. The Act made provision for Housing Associations to offer a voluntary House Sales Scheme to their tenants. This will be a decision for individual Housing Associations and their Boards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206303%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388262","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388262"}},{"id":"388004","reference":"AQW 6165/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-12","answerBy":"2024-02-27","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the impact on the economy due to parents being unable to work due to the absence of sufficient and affordable childcare; and (ii) the work of his Department in any expansion of free childcare.","answerText":"The Early Years and Childcare Strategy which is being developed by the Department of Education is an Executive priority. I recognise that there is a need for high quality affordable childcare to enable parents to work and my department will support the development of this strategy.","answerHtml":"The Early Years and Childcare Strategy which is being developed by the Department of Education is an Executive priority. I recognise that there is a need for high quality affordable childcare to enable parents to work and my department will support the development of this strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206165%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388004"}},{"id":"388003","reference":"AQW 6164/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-12","answerBy":"2024-02-27","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans for reducing waiting times for hip replacement operations.","answerText":"Reducing waiting times for elective care, including orthopaedics, is a key priority for me. Current waiting times are unacceptable, no one should have to wait longer than necessary for the surgery they need, such as hip replacements. While good progress has been made in tackling waiting times in some areas, there remains much more to be done. Within the constraints of existing budgets, I’m committed to taking whatever actions I can to tackle these waiting times and ensure that patients are treated as quickly as possible to ensure best possible outcomes.\n\nIn April 2022 my Department commissioned an independent external review of the regional elective orthopaedic service in Northern Ireland to identify proposals for the immediate recovery of the service. Since the completion of the review significant progress has been made across the region, with some Trusts now exceeding pre-Covid levels of activity. For example, in Musgrave Park Hospital, more than 1,700 additional patients, over and above activity planned prior to the review, have been treated to date, and the newly refurbished Duke of Connaught Unit at the Hospital is now delivering high volume, low complexity treatments for patients, with over 1,700 procedures and 750 outpatient appointments delivered in the unit thus far. However, I accept that there is more to do and providing further improvement in orthopaedic waiting lists is important to improve the health outcomes of our population.\n\nI recognise that the transformation of HSC services alone is not enough to remove our unacceptably long waiting times. While it will help bridge the existing capacity / demand gap and in some specialities/procedures, may also reduce waiting lists, more needs to be done. Going forward, we therefore need to invest in additionality to reduce waits. Any future funding allocation to help reduce waiting lists in orthopaedics will, however, need to be considered as part of a broader review of resource investment in Waiting List Initiatives.","answerHtml":"Reducing waiting times for elective care, including orthopaedics, is a key priority for me. Current waiting times are unacceptable, no one should have to wait longer than necessary for the surgery they need, such as hip replacements. While good progress has been made in tackling waiting times in some areas, there remains much more to be done. Within the constraints of existing budgets, I’m committed to taking whatever actions I can to tackle these waiting times and ensure that patients are treated as quickly as possible to ensure best possible outcomes.
In April 2022 my Department commissioned an independent external review of the regional elective orthopaedic service in Northern Ireland to identify proposals for the immediate recovery of the service. Since the completion of the review significant progress has been made across the region, with some Trusts now exceeding pre-Covid levels of activity. For example, in Musgrave Park Hospital, more than 1,700 additional patients, over and above activity planned prior to the review, have been treated to date, and the newly refurbished Duke of Connaught Unit at the Hospital is now delivering high volume, low complexity treatments for patients, with over 1,700 procedures and 750 outpatient appointments delivered in the unit thus far. However, I accept that there is more to do and providing further improvement in orthopaedic waiting lists is important to improve the health outcomes of our population.
I recognise that the transformation of HSC services alone is not enough to remove our unacceptably long waiting times. While it will help bridge the existing capacity / demand gap and in some specialities/procedures, may also reduce waiting lists, more needs to be done. Going forward, we therefore need to invest in additionality to reduce waits. Any future funding allocation to help reduce waiting lists in orthopaedics will, however, need to be considered as part of a broader review of resource investment in Waiting List Initiatives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206164%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388003","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388003"}},{"id":"388002","reference":"AQW 6163/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-12","answerBy":"2024-02-27","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his plans to ensure that everyone can join and access a local NHS dentist in a timely way; and (ii) whether he will put in place a revised contract with dentists to ensure it is financially viable for dentists to take on and treat new NHS patients.","answerText":"A key part of the access issues facing patients are the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers has meant that it has not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. This is now my immediate priority, and I am meeting with Trade Unions in early course to take this forward. Officials have already been making arrangements in anticipation of funding being made available to ensure that uplifts can be implemented as quickly as possible.\n\nI know that an additional £95m has been invested in General Dental Services via the Financial Support Scheme and Rebuilding Support Scheme since April 2020. This came to an end in July 2023 due to the severe financial pressures arising from the Department’s 2023/24 budget settlement.\n\nA pilot scheme is currently running to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) office for advice.\n\nMore immediately, officials have been developing investment proposals to further support General Dental Services and I will consider them in early course.\n\nIn relation to contract reform, I am conscious of the progress that has been made in the rest of the UK in recent months, with Scotland, England and Wales adopting diverging models of remuneration. I will be discussing these issues with officials as soon as possible, to ensure that the sector here in NI is supported in delivering important care to patients. I also know that officials are liaising with their colleagues in the devolved governments to monitor the results of these models and the views of practitioners and patients, in order to inform decision making in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"A key part of the access issues facing patients are the rates being paid to our dentists for treatment. The absence of Executive Ministers has meant that it has not been possible to progress the recommended pay uplifts for staffing groups for 2023/24. This is now my immediate priority, and I am meeting with Trade Unions in early course to take this forward. Officials have already been making arrangements in anticipation of funding being made available to ensure that uplifts can be implemented as quickly as possible.
I know that an additional £95m has been invested in General Dental Services via the Financial Support Scheme and Rebuilding Support Scheme since April 2020. This came to an end in July 2023 due to the severe financial pressures arising from the Department’s 2023/24 budget settlement.
A pilot scheme is currently running to provide appointments to unregistered patients who require emergency dental treatment during the working week. If a patient is not registered with a dentist, requires emergency dental treatment, and has been unable to access an appointment, they can contact their local Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) office for advice.
More immediately, officials have been developing investment proposals to further support General Dental Services and I will consider them in early course.
In relation to contract reform, I am conscious of the progress that has been made in the rest of the UK in recent months, with Scotland, England and Wales adopting diverging models of remuneration. I will be discussing these issues with officials as soon as possible, to ensure that the sector here in NI is supported in delivering important care to patients. I also know that officials are liaising with their colleagues in the devolved governments to monitor the results of these models and the views of practitioners and patients, in order to inform decision making in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206163%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388002","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388002"}},{"id":"388001","reference":"AQW 6162/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-12","answerBy":"2024-02-27","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the links between the cost of living crisis and the increase in organised criminal action, including (a) illegal money-lending; (b) drug dealing; and (c) violence; and (ii) to detail any plans she has to develop strategies to combat the exploitation by criminal gangs of (a) people in need; and (b) disadvantaged communities.","answerText":"Tackling organised crime continues to be a priority for my Department. Criminals will exploit any opportunity for their own means and the ongoing cost of living crisis is no exception. It can increase the risk of cash thefts as well as the likelihood of consumers to consider counterfeit goods from which criminal gangs can profit.\n\nDemand for illicit drugs remains high, with the current cost of living crisis manifesting in a growing use of alternative substances, including synthetic drugs, increasing abuse of prescription medicines and multi substance abuse.\n\nAddressing the harm caused by paramilitarism and organised crime now, and preventing it happening in the future, is a critical part of the overall response. The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) is active across Northern Ireland to support communities and individuals who are vulnerable to paramilitary influence and harm. Over one hundred projects are delivered collaboratively by government departments, statutory agencies, and partners in the voluntary and community sector. These help keep people safe, reduce the risk of exploitation and over time, help to build community resilience to criminality and paramilitarism. This is a long-term endeavour that requires action across the Executive.\n\nOn the specific issue of illegal money lending, EPPOC’s ‘Ending the Harm’, public awareness campaign (www.endingtheharm.com) has led the way in consciously highlighting the devastating impact that criminal gangs have on victims, families, communities, and wider society. The current campaign focuses on how gangs use illegal money lending to control and coerce vulnerable people. It has been instrumental in raising understanding through preventative messaging and provides signposting to support for those who have become victims.\n\nEPPOC, which is a cross Executive programme co-ordinated from within the Department of Justice, works in tandem with my Department’s Organised Crime Team and with a range of operational partners through the Organised Crime Taskforce. Work is underway to develop an addendum workplan to the current Organised Crime Strategy to further tackle organised criminality and more effectively respond to this.","answerHtml":"Tackling organised crime continues to be a priority for my Department. Criminals will exploit any opportunity for their own means and the ongoing cost of living crisis is no exception. It can increase the risk of cash thefts as well as the likelihood of consumers to consider counterfeit goods from which criminal gangs can profit.
Demand for illicit drugs remains high, with the current cost of living crisis manifesting in a growing use of alternative substances, including synthetic drugs, increasing abuse of prescription medicines and multi substance abuse.
Addressing the harm caused by paramilitarism and organised crime now, and preventing it happening in the future, is a critical part of the overall response. The Executive Programme on Paramilitarism and Organised Crime (EPPOC) is active across Northern Ireland to support communities and individuals who are vulnerable to paramilitary influence and harm. Over one hundred projects are delivered collaboratively by government departments, statutory agencies, and partners in the voluntary and community sector. These help keep people safe, reduce the risk of exploitation and over time, help to build community resilience to criminality and paramilitarism. This is a long-term endeavour that requires action across the Executive.
On the specific issue of illegal money lending, EPPOC’s ‘Ending the Harm’, public awareness campaign (www.endingtheharm.com) has led the way in consciously highlighting the devastating impact that criminal gangs have on victims, families, communities, and wider society. The current campaign focuses on how gangs use illegal money lending to control and coerce vulnerable people. It has been instrumental in raising understanding through preventative messaging and provides signposting to support for those who have become victims.
EPPOC, which is a cross Executive programme co-ordinated from within the Department of Justice, works in tandem with my Department’s Organised Crime Team and with a range of operational partners through the Organised Crime Taskforce. Work is underway to develop an addendum workplan to the current Organised Crime Strategy to further tackle organised criminality and more effectively respond to this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206162%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388001","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388001"}},{"id":"388000","reference":"AQW 6161/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-12","answerBy":"2024-02-27","answered":"2024-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the impact of the cost of living crisis on students’ financial wellbeing; and (ii) what steps he will take to improve this.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the impact that cost of living increases are having on students and I will be engaging with my officials to consider the support available in future years.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the impact that cost of living increases are having on students and I will be engaging with my officials to consider the support available in future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206161%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=388000","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=388000"}},{"id":"387754","reference":"AQW 6031/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of the risk posed by an extension of the landfill site at Maghery Road, County Armagh; and (ii) whether, given its regional significance, this application should be called in for decision by his Department under the 2011 Planning Act.","answerText":"I understand that the planning application (ref: LA08/2019/0129/F) referred to at Maghery Road, County Armagh is currently under consideration by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. As decision maker, it is for the council to assess any potential risks from the proposed development as part of the planning assessment, in the first instance. My Department has received recent requests for the application to be ‘called in’ to it for determination. My Officials are currently assessing the requests and I will make a decision as to whether or not the application should be referred to my Department for determination once this assessment has been finalised.","answerHtml":"I understand that the planning application (ref: LA08/2019/0129/F) referred to at Maghery Road, County Armagh is currently under consideration by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council. As decision maker, it is for the council to assess any potential risks from the proposed development as part of the planning assessment, in the first instance. My Department has received recent requests for the application to be ‘called in’ to it for determination. My Officials are currently assessing the requests and I will make a decision as to whether or not the application should be referred to my Department for determination once this assessment has been finalised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206031%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387754"}},{"id":"387753","reference":"AQW 6030/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) the estimated number of children vaccinated with the MMR vaccine; and (ii) the estimated proportion of parents who (a) have intentionally not had their child vaccinated; and (b) have not done so because they were not aware of appointments, had not been successfully contacted or were not registered with a doctor, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The latest quarterly coverage (July-Sept 2023) reports Northern Ireland uptake of one dose of MMR at 2 years of 88.8% and 93.6% at 5 years of age. Uptake of two doses of MMR vaccine at 5 years is 85%. This information is available at Vaccination coverage | HSC Public Health Agency (hscni.net).\n\nInformation on the estimated proportion of parents who have intentionally not had their child vaccinated, have not done so because of unawareness of appointments, or because of lack of registration with a GP within the last five years is not held.","answerHtml":"The latest quarterly coverage (July-Sept 2023) reports Northern Ireland uptake of one dose of MMR at 2 years of 88.8% and 93.6% at 5 years of age. Uptake of two doses of MMR vaccine at 5 years is 85%. This information is available at Vaccination coverage | HSC Public Health Agency (hscni.net).
Information on the estimated proportion of parents who have intentionally not had their child vaccinated, have not done so because of unawareness of appointments, or because of lack of registration with a GP within the last five years is not held.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206030%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387753"}},{"id":"387752","reference":"AQW 6029/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how parents are contacted in relation to their child’s vaccination schedule and appointments; (ii) for his assessment of the risks of these methods being unsuccessful in contacting parents; and (iii) for his assessment of ways of how to best ensure parents are kept informed about their child’s vaccination requirements and appointments.","answerText":"In relation to part (i), the Child Health System (CHS) centrally schedules vaccinations for children according to the routine schedule. For preschool vaccinations, an appointment card is sent to the parents either with a specific time and date for their child’s appointment, or it will ask them to contact their GP practice to make an appointment. It is up to each GP practice to choose the option used for their appointment cards.\n\nFor school-based vaccinations, the CHS will schedule vaccinations according to school year and will liaise with the school nursing team to offer vaccination in the school setting. Letters are sent out from the school nursing service about the scheduled vaccine together with information about the vaccine being offered and a consent form. Parents are given the telephone number of the school nursing service and invited to phone if they have any questions.\n\nIn relation to part (ii), as the CHS works on a central and regional basis, it has been shown to be successful in contacting children, where the contact details are kept up to date. Parents are encouraged to keep their contact details up to date with their GP and this information is shared with CHS to issue appointments. The Public Health Agency undertakes a number of actions to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining the CHS record. As with all systems, the CHS relies on the information it holds being updated, but parents can contact their GP, health visitor or school nurse if they want to review their child’s vaccination status.\n\nIt is recognised that some parents, for example who do not have English as a first language, may find it difficult to understand the various communications issued. In the case of the primary immunisation appointment cards, these are discussed with parents when the health visitor calls for scheduled visits. In situations where parents do not speak English, the translator accompanying the health visitor will be able to translate the information provided.\n\nIn relation to part (iii), parents are kept informed in a number of ways regarding the vaccinations available for their child, this starts with the pregnancy book and the “birth to five” books, which are available to all parents to inform them of what vaccines their child should receive and when. The Personal Child Health Record (PCHR), given to parents at the time of birth, also lists the vaccinations given in childhood and has a facility to record when their child has had their vaccinations.\n\nGPs and other healthcare professionals are encouraged to promote vaccination at every encounter a child/parent has with services. Health visitors will also promote the uptake of vaccinations with parents at the “healthy child, healthy future” contacts which are scheduled when a child is 10-14 days old, 8 weeks, 14-16 weeks, 6-9 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3+ review. In addition, vaccination is encouraged through School Nursing at the P1 ‘Health Appraisal’ and in advance of the vaccinations offered in school years 9 and 11.\n\nFor each vaccination appointment, parents will be issued an individual communication from the Child Health System. For preschool vaccinations, this will be via the GP. For school-based vaccinations, this will be from the local Trust school nursing team.\n\nGoing forward, as we develop digital health records, it is intended that children’s vaccination records will become available to parents through their child’s e-health record. These developments will have the potential to make it easier to make vaccination appointments as well as issue reminders.","answerHtml":"In relation to part (i), the Child Health System (CHS) centrally schedules vaccinations for children according to the routine schedule. For preschool vaccinations, an appointment card is sent to the parents either with a specific time and date for their child’s appointment, or it will ask them to contact their GP practice to make an appointment. It is up to each GP practice to choose the option used for their appointment cards.
For school-based vaccinations, the CHS will schedule vaccinations according to school year and will liaise with the school nursing team to offer vaccination in the school setting. Letters are sent out from the school nursing service about the scheduled vaccine together with information about the vaccine being offered and a consent form. Parents are given the telephone number of the school nursing service and invited to phone if they have any questions.
In relation to part (ii), as the CHS works on a central and regional basis, it has been shown to be successful in contacting children, where the contact details are kept up to date. Parents are encouraged to keep their contact details up to date with their GP and this information is shared with CHS to issue appointments. The Public Health Agency undertakes a number of actions to raise awareness of the importance of maintaining the CHS record. As with all systems, the CHS relies on the information it holds being updated, but parents can contact their GP, health visitor or school nurse if they want to review their child’s vaccination status.
It is recognised that some parents, for example who do not have English as a first language, may find it difficult to understand the various communications issued. In the case of the primary immunisation appointment cards, these are discussed with parents when the health visitor calls for scheduled visits. In situations where parents do not speak English, the translator accompanying the health visitor will be able to translate the information provided.
In relation to part (iii), parents are kept informed in a number of ways regarding the vaccinations available for their child, this starts with the pregnancy book and the “birth to five” books, which are available to all parents to inform them of what vaccines their child should receive and when. The Personal Child Health Record (PCHR), given to parents at the time of birth, also lists the vaccinations given in childhood and has a facility to record when their child has had their vaccinations.
GPs and other healthcare professionals are encouraged to promote vaccination at every encounter a child/parent has with services. Health visitors will also promote the uptake of vaccinations with parents at the “healthy child, healthy future” contacts which are scheduled when a child is 10-14 days old, 8 weeks, 14-16 weeks, 6-9 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3+ review. In addition, vaccination is encouraged through School Nursing at the P1 ‘Health Appraisal’ and in advance of the vaccinations offered in school years 9 and 11.
For each vaccination appointment, parents will be issued an individual communication from the Child Health System. For preschool vaccinations, this will be via the GP. For school-based vaccinations, this will be from the local Trust school nursing team.
Going forward, as we develop digital health records, it is intended that children’s vaccination records will become available to parents through their child’s e-health record. These developments will have the potential to make it easier to make vaccination appointments as well as issue reminders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206029%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387752"}},{"id":"387751","reference":"AQW 6028/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) his plans to implement a loneliness strategy; (ii) his assessment of the scale and nature of loneliness in Northern Ireland; and (iii) the anticipated cross-departmental work and responsibility that will be required in the formation and roll-out of such a strategy.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has no responsibility for loneliness policy and has no plans to implement a loneliness strategy.\n\nA decision to develop a strategy, and identify a lead Department, would be a matter for the Executive.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has no responsibility for loneliness policy and has no plans to implement a loneliness strategy.
A decision to develop a strategy, and identify a lead Department, would be a matter for the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206028%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387751"}},{"id":"387750","reference":"AQW 6027/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-09","answerBy":"2024-02-26","answered":"2024-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his plans to increase the provision of free and affordable childcare in line with the rest of the UK.","answerText":"Since my appointment as Education Minister, I have made the development and implementation of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy a priority and while I have stated that our ambition should not be limited, it is important that we take time to carefully consider our options and to secure the necessary funding.\n\nI want to deliver a bespoke affordability scheme for Northern Ireland that addresses the challenges we face and delivers the outcomes we want to achieve. This will include taking on board the learning from other jurisdictions.","answerHtml":"Since my appointment as Education Minister, I have made the development and implementation of the Early Learning and Childcare Strategy a priority and while I have stated that our ambition should not be limited, it is important that we take time to carefully consider our options and to secure the necessary funding.
I want to deliver a bespoke affordability scheme for Northern Ireland that addresses the challenges we face and delivers the outcomes we want to achieve. This will include taking on board the learning from other jurisdictions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206027%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387750"}},{"id":"387536","reference":"AQW 5900/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether it is possible for a patient to opt-out of the digitalisation of their medical records.","answerText":"Information has been held in digital medical records for many years, Clinicians require this information to provide all patients and service users with safe and appropriate care. In very rare circumstances restrictions on access to selected parts of a record have been implemented.\n\nInformation held on HSC computer systems is used for direct patient care only and any other use, such as research and development, requires additional patient consent.","answerHtml":"Information has been held in digital medical records for many years, Clinicians require this information to provide all patients and service users with safe and appropriate care. In very rare circumstances restrictions on access to selected parts of a record have been implemented.
Information held on HSC computer systems is used for direct patient care only and any other use, such as research and development, requires additional patient consent.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205900%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387536","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387536"}},{"id":"387535","reference":"AQW 5899/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the steps that (i) have been made; (ii) are planned (a) to increase the number of wheelchair accessible taxis across Northern Ireland; (b) to ensure wheelchair accessible taxis are not more expensive for passengers; (c) to ensure taxi companies do not contravene the Equality Act; and (d) to put in place an individual or organisation to oversee the application of disability rights, in particular those relating to taxi businesses.","answerText":"Under current taxi legislation there is no requirement for taxi operators to have a minimum number of wheelchair accessible vehicles, and the option to include these in their fleet is at the discretion of the operators and drivers. Neither does my Department under current taxi legislation have the powers to deliver financial support for the purchase or operation of a Wheelchair Accessible Taxi.\n\nTaxi fares are consistent for all passengers who can be charged up to the maximum fare tariff allowed.\n\nTaxi companies are responsible for complying with equality legislation. My officials previously met with the Consumer Council, IMTAC and the Equality Commission, which led to direct contact between the Commission and the three largest taxi operators in NI. As responsibility for disability rights relating to taxi businesses rests with the taxi companies my Department has no plans to oversee their application.\n\nIf a passenger feels there has been a contravention of the Equality Act they can make a complaint firstly to the taxi operator and then to DVA through the complaints process:-\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/making-complaint-about-taxi-service#toc-0","answerHtml":"Under current taxi legislation there is no requirement for taxi operators to have a minimum number of wheelchair accessible vehicles, and the option to include these in their fleet is at the discretion of the operators and drivers. Neither does my Department under current taxi legislation have the powers to deliver financial support for the purchase or operation of a Wheelchair Accessible Taxi.
Taxi fares are consistent for all passengers who can be charged up to the maximum fare tariff allowed.
Taxi companies are responsible for complying with equality legislation. My officials previously met with the Consumer Council, IMTAC and the Equality Commission, which led to direct contact between the Commission and the three largest taxi operators in NI. As responsibility for disability rights relating to taxi businesses rests with the taxi companies my Department has no plans to oversee their application.
If a passenger feels there has been a contravention of the Equality Act they can make a complaint firstly to the taxi operator and then to DVA through the complaints process:-
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/making-complaint-about-taxi-service#toc-0
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205899%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387535","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387535"}},{"id":"387534","reference":"AQW 5898/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of current women’s health services, particularly gynaecology; and (ii) to detail plans he has to deal with lengthy waiting lists and times for these services.","answerText":"As I outlined during a debate on the development of a Women’s Health Strategy on 13 February, current waiting lists are simply unacceptable.\n\nI also advised that my Department is in the process of developing a short-to-medium-term women’s health action plan that builds on ongoing work and identifies the priority actions across women’s health services that can be taken forward within our current budget, as well as those actions for which additional investment will be required.\n\nIn addition, I want to prioritise implementation of the recently published Gitting it Right First Time (GIRFT) Gynaecology report. My Department has already written to all Trusts about the report and will engage with relevant stakeholders to progress implementation as far as possible within the available resources.\n\nA copy of the Hansard report on the debate can be found at Official Reports (niassembly.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"As I outlined during a debate on the development of a Women’s Health Strategy on 13 February, current waiting lists are simply unacceptable.
I also advised that my Department is in the process of developing a short-to-medium-term women’s health action plan that builds on ongoing work and identifies the priority actions across women’s health services that can be taken forward within our current budget, as well as those actions for which additional investment will be required.
In addition, I want to prioritise implementation of the recently published Gitting it Right First Time (GIRFT) Gynaecology report. My Department has already written to all Trusts about the report and will engage with relevant stakeholders to progress implementation as far as possible within the available resources.
A copy of the Hansard report on the debate can be found at Official Reports (niassembly.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205898%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387534","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387534"}},{"id":"387533","reference":"AQW 5897/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he anticipates his previously released cancer strategy is to be fully funded with the restoration of the Assembly and Executive.","answerText":"Additional funding for the cancer strategy will be considered along with the many demands for extra funding across the health and social care system at this time. It is expected that the overall financial position for all NI departments will remain very challenging for 2024/25.","answerHtml":"Additional funding for the cancer strategy will be considered along with the many demands for extra funding across the health and social care system at this time. It is expected that the overall financial position for all NI departments will remain very challenging for 2024/25.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205897%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387533","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387533"}},{"id":"387532","reference":"AQW 5896/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-23","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the process by which a person may change their medical history records; (ii) plans he has to improve this process; and (iii) the conditions or evidence required for this process to go ahead.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations should make every effort to keep patient records accurate. However, occasionally information may need to be amended about the patient or their care.\n\nIf a patient feels that the health or care information in their record is factually inaccurate Article 5 of UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation provides a legal right to rectification. For example, a patient can ask for their home address to be changed because they moved house. They may also ask for something they feel has been inaccurately recorded, such as a diagnosis, to be corrected. However, it may not be possible to agree to all requests.\n\nA request can be made either by speaking to staff in the relevant HSC organisation (for example Health and Social Care Trust or GP Practice) or by making a request in writing. The patient may need to provide evidence of the correct details, for example proof of address or change of surname after marriage. The organisation will then consider the request. Where organisations agree to make a change, they should make it as soon as practically possible and within one calendar month. In certain circumstances, if the rectification is deemed complex, timescales could be extended to a maximum of three months for this rectification to happen.\n\nOn occasion, a patient may disagree with information written in their record, but the information could still be factually correct. For example, the patient may disagree with a diagnosis they were given in the past. Whilst they can still ask the organisation to amend the entry that they feel is inaccurate, an organisation will consider with the care professional whether they believe it is factually correct. There may also be times when information was correct at the time the entry was made but has since changed. For example, there may be an initial working diagnosis which was, at the time of entry, clinically possible, but is later ruled out with a different confirmed diagnosis. Retaining the original diagnosis does not make the record inaccurate, so it is important that this is not amended. There are exceptions to this, for example, where there is a court order requiring an amendment.\n\nIn cases where all parties agree that the information is inaccurate, it may still be necessary to retain the information. For example, health and care professionals may have taken the information into consideration when making decisions about treatment or care. This information would therefore be needed to justify and explain health and treatment decisions or to audit the quality of care received. The patient can, however, request for a comment or entry to be made in the record to show that they disagree with the content and what they think it should say.\n\nIf the patient is unhappy with the decision of a health or care organisation to retain information they wish to have deleted or rectified there are steps a patient can take. In the first instance, the patient can make a formal complaint through the organisation’s complaints process. If a patient is unhappy with the outcome of that process then they might consider making a complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) or they may consider legal action.\n\nThere are well established processes in place across the HSC to deal with requests for changes to medical records which are supported by legislation; there are no plans to amend those processes at present.\n\nHealth and Social Care Professionals have a legal duty and professional responsibility to keep health and care records accurate and up to date. Patients and service users have the right under UK GDPR to request for their records to be rectified if they feel inaccurate information is held about them. There is an expectation on organisations to confirm whether they will rectify the information, or if they are unable to do so explain this to the individual. Whilst it is difficult to challenge the accuracy on subjective opinions, this should be explained to the individual.\n\nWhere a factual inaccuracy exists the HSC organisation may request evidence to support a change to the medical record. This could, for example, be proof of a new address, a copy of a marriage certificate to support a change of surname, a copy of a birth certificate to correct Date of Birth.\n\nWhere the inaccuracy relates to subjective opinion it becomes more difficult to establish evidence to prove/disprove accuracy and therefore the need for rectification. In such circumstances the patient should engage with the relevant organisation.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations should make every effort to keep patient records accurate. However, occasionally information may need to be amended about the patient or their care.
If a patient feels that the health or care information in their record is factually inaccurate Article 5 of UK General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) legislation provides a legal right to rectification. For example, a patient can ask for their home address to be changed because they moved house. They may also ask for something they feel has been inaccurately recorded, such as a diagnosis, to be corrected. However, it may not be possible to agree to all requests.
A request can be made either by speaking to staff in the relevant HSC organisation (for example Health and Social Care Trust or GP Practice) or by making a request in writing. The patient may need to provide evidence of the correct details, for example proof of address or change of surname after marriage. The organisation will then consider the request. Where organisations agree to make a change, they should make it as soon as practically possible and within one calendar month. In certain circumstances, if the rectification is deemed complex, timescales could be extended to a maximum of three months for this rectification to happen.
On occasion, a patient may disagree with information written in their record, but the information could still be factually correct. For example, the patient may disagree with a diagnosis they were given in the past. Whilst they can still ask the organisation to amend the entry that they feel is inaccurate, an organisation will consider with the care professional whether they believe it is factually correct. There may also be times when information was correct at the time the entry was made but has since changed. For example, there may be an initial working diagnosis which was, at the time of entry, clinically possible, but is later ruled out with a different confirmed diagnosis. Retaining the original diagnosis does not make the record inaccurate, so it is important that this is not amended. There are exceptions to this, for example, where there is a court order requiring an amendment.
In cases where all parties agree that the information is inaccurate, it may still be necessary to retain the information. For example, health and care professionals may have taken the information into consideration when making decisions about treatment or care. This information would therefore be needed to justify and explain health and treatment decisions or to audit the quality of care received. The patient can, however, request for a comment or entry to be made in the record to show that they disagree with the content and what they think it should say.
If the patient is unhappy with the decision of a health or care organisation to retain information they wish to have deleted or rectified there are steps a patient can take. In the first instance, the patient can make a formal complaint through the organisation’s complaints process. If a patient is unhappy with the outcome of that process then they might consider making a complaint to the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) or they may consider legal action.
There are well established processes in place across the HSC to deal with requests for changes to medical records which are supported by legislation; there are no plans to amend those processes at present.
Health and Social Care Professionals have a legal duty and professional responsibility to keep health and care records accurate and up to date. Patients and service users have the right under UK GDPR to request for their records to be rectified if they feel inaccurate information is held about them. There is an expectation on organisations to confirm whether they will rectify the information, or if they are unable to do so explain this to the individual. Whilst it is difficult to challenge the accuracy on subjective opinions, this should be explained to the individual.
Where a factual inaccuracy exists the HSC organisation may request evidence to support a change to the medical record. This could, for example, be proof of a new address, a copy of a marriage certificate to support a change of surname, a copy of a birth certificate to correct Date of Birth.
Where the inaccuracy relates to subjective opinion it becomes more difficult to establish evidence to prove/disprove accuracy and therefore the need for rectification. In such circumstances the patient should engage with the relevant organisation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205896%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387532","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387532"}},{"id":"387647","reference":"AQO 34/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-20","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail his plans for implementing the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%2034%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387647","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2024-02-20&docID=388360#AQO%2034/22-27","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387647"}},{"id":"389393","reference":"AQO 23/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-19","answered":"2024-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail his plans to tackle the spread of Bovine Tuberculosis.","answerText":"Bovine Tuberculosis is one of the most challenging issues faced by the cattle farmers in Northern Ireland. I share Members’ concerns regarding the current high rate of TB incidence and the impact this is having on hard working farm families. With herd incidence currently at over 10%, one farm in ten has experienced the difficulties associated with a new TB breakdown in the past year and I have already heard directly from farmers the impact this is having.\n\nTackling this disease is also having a significant impact on my Department’s budget. 53 million pounds was spent on the control of TB in the last financial year and a similar amount is expected this year.\n\nThe high cost of controlling TB is not sustainable- not to farm businesses nor to my Departmental budget. I can assure the house that tackling this disease and all the factors which contribute to its spread and endurance will be a top priority for me in my new role. I will be working closely with my officials in the coming weeks and engaging with stakeholders to examine the best way to help lower the rate of TB in our herds.","answerHtml":"Bovine Tuberculosis is one of the most challenging issues faced by the cattle farmers in Northern Ireland. I share Members’ concerns regarding the current high rate of TB incidence and the impact this is having on hard working farm families. With herd incidence currently at over 10%, one farm in ten has experienced the difficulties associated with a new TB breakdown in the past year and I have already heard directly from farmers the impact this is having.
Tackling this disease is also having a significant impact on my Department’s budget. 53 million pounds was spent on the control of TB in the last financial year and a similar amount is expected this year.
The high cost of controlling TB is not sustainable- not to farm businesses nor to my Departmental budget. I can assure the house that tackling this disease and all the factors which contribute to its spread and endurance will be a top priority for me in my new role. I will be working closely with my officials in the coming weeks and engaging with stakeholders to examine the best way to help lower the rate of TB in our herds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%2023%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=389393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=389393"}},{"id":"393691","reference":"AQO 11/22-27","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-08","answerBy":"2024-02-19","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline their plans to introduce stand-alone age discrimination legislation for accessing of goods, services and facilities.","answerText":"Consideration of extending age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services was the subject of consultations in a previous mandate. A decision was not made in respect of the scope of that legislation. The issue requires further work to inform the potential scope of any legislation.","answerHtml":"Consideration of extending age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services was the subject of consultations in a previous mandate. A decision was not made in respect of the scope of that legislation. The issue requires further work to inform the potential scope of any legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%2011%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=393691","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=393691"}},{"id":"387302","reference":"AQW 5739/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for his assessment of the economic health of the community and voluntary sector; (ii) what plans he has to improve this; and (iii) for his assessment of how this sector could be used to support other public services.","answerText":"There is no single source of evidence on the economic health of the voluntary and community sector, which is diverse and complex. However, my department has heard consistently from sector leaders in recent months that the cost of living crisis and unstable or reduced public sector funding is affecting the sustainability of services and of some organisations within the Sector. The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) has reported widespread financial pressures in the Sector based on extensive engagement and surveys of its membership.\n\nMy department has recently consulted on policy proposals for future support for the Sector, setting out commitment to continued investment in core sectoral infrastructure and to improving the way that government works with and in support of the Sector. Following consideration of responses, I will bring forward proposals for future investment in sectoral infrastructure, alongside commitments to strengthening future relationships between government and the Sector, including fair and sustainable funding approaches.\n\nI appreciate the critical role played by the voluntary and community sector in supporting our communities and delivering important social, environmental and economic outcomes across Northern Ireland. All government departments currently benefit from the work of the Sector, in terms of the design and delivery of public services and through advocacy across a very wide range of policy interests.","answerHtml":"There is no single source of evidence on the economic health of the voluntary and community sector, which is diverse and complex. However, my department has heard consistently from sector leaders in recent months that the cost of living crisis and unstable or reduced public sector funding is affecting the sustainability of services and of some organisations within the Sector. The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) has reported widespread financial pressures in the Sector based on extensive engagement and surveys of its membership.
My department has recently consulted on policy proposals for future support for the Sector, setting out commitment to continued investment in core sectoral infrastructure and to improving the way that government works with and in support of the Sector. Following consideration of responses, I will bring forward proposals for future investment in sectoral infrastructure, alongside commitments to strengthening future relationships between government and the Sector, including fair and sustainable funding approaches.
I appreciate the critical role played by the voluntary and community sector in supporting our communities and delivering important social, environmental and economic outcomes across Northern Ireland. All government departments currently benefit from the work of the Sector, in terms of the design and delivery of public services and through advocacy across a very wide range of policy interests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205739%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387302","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387302"}},{"id":"387301","reference":"AQW 5738/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) whether she will continue with a previously proposed early-release scheme for prisoners in order to free-up space in prisons; and (ii) to provide details around eligibility criteria.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) operated a temporary release scheme during the Covid 19 pandemic. This provided for the temporary release of certain categories of prisoners during the last 3 months of their sentence. Its purpose was to provide each prisoner with single cell accommodation, an important aspect of the steps NIPS took to prevent the spread of coronavirus in its establishments. There are no plans to re-start this scheme to deal with the current increase in population.\n\nNIPS has also operated a Conditional Early Release Scheme since June 2015. This provides for the early release of some prisoners on a supervised licence. Applicants must meet a range of criteria, including a number of statutory and non-statutory exclusions. Successful candidates must also demonstrate that they pose a low likelihood of re-offending; that they have been of good behaviour whilst in custody; that they have approved, stable and supportive accommodation in the community; and that they have complied fully with all conditions imposed during any periods of temporary release. I currently have no plans to expand this scheme however, the increase in the prisoner population and the difficulties that is placing upon the operational effectiveness of the Prison Service is a matter I am keeping under close review.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) operated a temporary release scheme during the Covid 19 pandemic. This provided for the temporary release of certain categories of prisoners during the last 3 months of their sentence. Its purpose was to provide each prisoner with single cell accommodation, an important aspect of the steps NIPS took to prevent the spread of coronavirus in its establishments. There are no plans to re-start this scheme to deal with the current increase in population.
NIPS has also operated a Conditional Early Release Scheme since June 2015. This provides for the early release of some prisoners on a supervised licence. Applicants must meet a range of criteria, including a number of statutory and non-statutory exclusions. Successful candidates must also demonstrate that they pose a low likelihood of re-offending; that they have been of good behaviour whilst in custody; that they have approved, stable and supportive accommodation in the community; and that they have complied fully with all conditions imposed during any periods of temporary release. I currently have no plans to expand this scheme however, the increase in the prisoner population and the difficulties that is placing upon the operational effectiveness of the Prison Service is a matter I am keeping under close review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205738%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387301","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387301"}},{"id":"387300","reference":"AQW 5737/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, given the current availability of home carers, and with families being advised by Health and Social Care Trusts to use the direct payment system, whether he would appeal to available family members to become carers and receive direct payments via this route.","answerText":"HSC Trusts continue to promote and support the use and uptake of direct payment as a means of meeting individuals needs in a more flexible and innovative manner, ultimately with the aim of giving individuals greater choice over the care they receive.\n\nThis in turn can sustain wellbeing and improve quality of life for many individuals, but I acknowledge that they are not the preferred option for everyone. Direct payments are not intended to replace existing support networks with family members, rather they are intended to supplement this family care. If a service user or family member feels that their individual circumstances would benefit from a receiving a direct payment to employ a family member, I would urge them to discuss this with their local HSC Trust who will consider a request on a case-by-case basis and will take into consideration the assessed needs of the service user.","answerHtml":"HSC Trusts continue to promote and support the use and uptake of direct payment as a means of meeting individuals needs in a more flexible and innovative manner, ultimately with the aim of giving individuals greater choice over the care they receive.
This in turn can sustain wellbeing and improve quality of life for many individuals, but I acknowledge that they are not the preferred option for everyone. Direct payments are not intended to replace existing support networks with family members, rather they are intended to supplement this family care. If a service user or family member feels that their individual circumstances would benefit from a receiving a direct payment to employ a family member, I would urge them to discuss this with their local HSC Trust who will consider a request on a case-by-case basis and will take into consideration the assessed needs of the service user.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205737%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387300","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387300"}},{"id":"387299","reference":"AQW 5736/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what steps she will take to (i) meet the New Decade, New Approach target of 7,500 PSNI officers; (ii) improve conditions so as to limit the number of officers experiencing protracted periods of mental and physical ill-health; and (iii) increase the attractiveness of a career as a police officer for potential new recruits.","answerText":"Police officer numbers are a matter for the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Northen Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Policing Board.\n\nThese are primarily matters for the PSNI; however, my department will continue to engage with the PSNI where appropriate to ensure safe and effective policing.\n\nWhilst the policy and legislative framework which governs police officer terms and conditions falls under the remit of the Department of Justice, the PSNI has complete operational autonomy. It is, therefore, primarily for the Chief Constable to determine how best to attract potential new recruits to choose a career in the police service.\n\nFor my part I will endeavour to support him in achieving those objectives.","answerHtml":"Police officer numbers are a matter for the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Northen Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Policing Board.
These are primarily matters for the PSNI; however, my department will continue to engage with the PSNI where appropriate to ensure safe and effective policing.
Whilst the policy and legislative framework which governs police officer terms and conditions falls under the remit of the Department of Justice, the PSNI has complete operational autonomy. It is, therefore, primarily for the Chief Constable to determine how best to attract potential new recruits to choose a career in the police service.
For my part I will endeavour to support him in achieving those objectives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205736%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387299","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387299"}},{"id":"387298","reference":"AQW 5735/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-07","answerBy":"2024-02-22","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for a timeline on the implementation of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"I recognise and share the deep frustration of many that this programme has not been delivered. Work is progressing to develop proposals for the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Football and I have asked my officials to present me with proposals and options for consideration as a matter of priority.\n\nOnce final proposals are confirmed and approvals are secured, I will be able to provide a timeframe for the process to apply for funding.","answerHtml":"I recognise and share the deep frustration of many that this programme has not been delivered. Work is progressing to develop proposals for the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Football and I have asked my officials to present me with proposals and options for consideration as a matter of priority.
Once final proposals are confirmed and approvals are secured, I will be able to provide a timeframe for the process to apply for funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205735%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387298"}},{"id":"387097","reference":"AQW 5595/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-06","answerBy":"2024-02-21","answered":"2024-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether he will retain free bus and rail travel for those aged over 60 in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The 12-week public consultation on changes to the NI Concessionary Fares Scheme closed on 24th August 2023, with the Department receiving over 20,000 responses. These responses have been invaluable in understanding the benefits of the Scheme not only for individuals, but for our society and economy as a whole, and I thank everyone who took the time to respond or get involved.\n\nIn the coming weeks I will be considering the responses the Department has received to the consultation and while I will do all I can to protect the concessions which matter most to people, any decisions on whether to keep free travel for those aged 60-64 must be based on the funding made available to my Department.","answerHtml":"The 12-week public consultation on changes to the NI Concessionary Fares Scheme closed on 24th August 2023, with the Department receiving over 20,000 responses. These responses have been invaluable in understanding the benefits of the Scheme not only for individuals, but for our society and economy as a whole, and I thank everyone who took the time to respond or get involved.
In the coming weeks I will be considering the responses the Department has received to the consultation and while I will do all I can to protect the concessions which matter most to people, any decisions on whether to keep free travel for those aged 60-64 must be based on the funding made available to my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205595%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387097"}},{"id":"387096","reference":"AQW 5594/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-06","answerBy":"2024-02-21","answered":"2024-02-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what plans he has to limit the formation of toxic algae blooms in Lough Neagh and to prevent them from travelling down the River Bann to north coast beaches.","answerText":"It has become clear that there are no quick fixes to the occurrence and probable re-occurrence of blue green algal (BGA) blooms at Lough Neagh. This is a problem that has been decades in the making and it could take decades to resolve.\n\nNutrient surplus entering the aquatic environment has been identified as one of the key drivers of water quality issues that led to the prolific BGA blooms in Lough Neagh in 2023 and the subsequent downward transmission of these blooms. DAERA is taking action on several fronts to address this.\n\nMy officials are working with The Agri-Food and BioSciences Institute (AFBI) to agree a programme of scientific work for Lough Neagh, including the development and validation of models to apportion nutrient loading from agricultural and non-agricultural sources. A review of potential in-lake future management options is also being taken forward by an Independent Science Advisory Group (SAG), chaired by my Chief Scientific Advisor. This work will complement a Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) scheme that aims to identify viable technical solutions to deal with the immediate effects of BGA within the Lough.\n\nOne further action my Department is taking is through the College for Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), where a programme to deliver training for farmers / land managers at various levels targeted towards Lough Neagh catchment areas has already started.\n\nI hope my response provides you with an insight into the range of work being undertaken. I look forward to working with all stakeholders including my Executive and Assembly colleagues in finding solutions to address this complex issue facing Lough Neagh and our beaches.","answerHtml":"It has become clear that there are no quick fixes to the occurrence and probable re-occurrence of blue green algal (BGA) blooms at Lough Neagh. This is a problem that has been decades in the making and it could take decades to resolve.
Nutrient surplus entering the aquatic environment has been identified as one of the key drivers of water quality issues that led to the prolific BGA blooms in Lough Neagh in 2023 and the subsequent downward transmission of these blooms. DAERA is taking action on several fronts to address this.
My officials are working with The Agri-Food and BioSciences Institute (AFBI) to agree a programme of scientific work for Lough Neagh, including the development and validation of models to apportion nutrient loading from agricultural and non-agricultural sources. A review of potential in-lake future management options is also being taken forward by an Independent Science Advisory Group (SAG), chaired by my Chief Scientific Advisor. This work will complement a Small Business Research Initiative (SBRI) scheme that aims to identify viable technical solutions to deal with the immediate effects of BGA within the Lough.
One further action my Department is taking is through the College for Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), where a programme to deliver training for farmers / land managers at various levels targeted towards Lough Neagh catchment areas has already started.
I hope my response provides you with an insight into the range of work being undertaken. I look forward to working with all stakeholders including my Executive and Assembly colleagues in finding solutions to address this complex issue facing Lough Neagh and our beaches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205594%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387096"}},{"id":"387095","reference":"AQW 5593/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-06","answerBy":"2024-02-21","answered":"2024-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what plans he has to reintroduce withdrawn programmes for primary school pupils and their families, such as holiday hunger payments and in-school counselling services.","answerText":"Following a decision by the Executive, the Department of Education, made, on an interim basis, School Holiday Food Grant payments from July 2020 to March 2023. The ringfenced funding for this ceased in 2023 and the payments were therefore discontinued. I will be considering the way forward on this issue in the time ahead.\n\nThe Healthy Happy Minds Pilot concluded on 31 March 2023. An evaluation of the pilot has been carried out and I will assess its findings as I seek to better support the emotional health and wellbeing of learners. The Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS) remains available to post-primary age pupils.","answerHtml":"Following a decision by the Executive, the Department of Education, made, on an interim basis, School Holiday Food Grant payments from July 2020 to March 2023. The ringfenced funding for this ceased in 2023 and the payments were therefore discontinued. I will be considering the way forward on this issue in the time ahead.
The Healthy Happy Minds Pilot concluded on 31 March 2023. An evaluation of the pilot has been carried out and I will assess its findings as I seek to better support the emotional health and wellbeing of learners. The Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS) remains available to post-primary age pupils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205593%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387095"}},{"id":"387094","reference":"AQW 5592/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-06","answerBy":"2024-02-21","answered":"2024-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what progress has been made in identifying and securing a site for the planned new integrated post-primary school in Coleraine.","answerText":"The Education Authority has initiated a project to establish the new school on one or more of the existing school sites, subject to available funding.\n\nThe long-term accommodation needs to educate all pupils on one site will require major capital investment. There is currently no open call for major capital works.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has initiated a project to establish the new school on one or more of the existing school sites, subject to available funding.
The long-term accommodation needs to educate all pupils on one site will require major capital investment. There is currently no open call for major capital works.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205592%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387094"}},{"id":"387093","reference":"AQW 5591/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-06","answerBy":"2024-02-21","answered":"2024-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the current applications for the funding of new school buildings in East Londonderry.","answerText":"There are currently four School Enhancement Programme (SEP) projects, one Fresh Start project and one Major Capital project advancing in design and planning in the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nSandelford School was announced in May 2018 under SEP. The proposed project involves a new build extension to provide general and specialist classrooms, with associated ancillary spaces. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design).\n\nColeraine Grammar School was announced in May 2018 under SEP. The project will bring the school on to one site at Castlerock Road. It involves the construction of a new part single, part two-storey extension for specialist classrooms, reconfiguration and refurbishment of existing accommodation and car parking and bus drop off and collection. Construction of the project started in June 2023 and the estimated completion date is Summer 2024.\n\nDominican College, Portstewart was announced in January 2019 under SEP. The proposed project involves demolition of existing accommodation and a new build extension. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design).\n\nSt Patrick’s and St Brigid’s College, Claudy was announced in January 2019 under SEP. The proposed project involves the construction of a new standalone sports block to include: sports hall, PE Classroom, fitness suite and drama suite; extension and refurbishment of existing accommodation; and a 3G synthetic pitch. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 3 (Developed Design).\n\nMill Strand Integrated Primary School was announced as a major capital project under the Fresh Start Programme in March 2016. Works on site commenced February 2023 and the school is currently expected to handover Mid-May 2024.\n\nLoretto College, Coleraine was one of twenty-eight major capital projects announced in March 2022. Unfortunately, all projects announced in 2022 have been paused due to the current budget position. The decision to pause these projects was taken in April 2023 and all schools impacted by the decision were notified by letter dated 25 April 2023.\n\nThere are also a number of smaller scale minor works projects being taken forward in the area.","answerHtml":"There are currently four School Enhancement Programme (SEP) projects, one Fresh Start project and one Major Capital project advancing in design and planning in the East Londonderry constituency.
Sandelford School was announced in May 2018 under SEP. The proposed project involves a new build extension to provide general and specialist classrooms, with associated ancillary spaces. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design).
Coleraine Grammar School was announced in May 2018 under SEP. The project will bring the school on to one site at Castlerock Road. It involves the construction of a new part single, part two-storey extension for specialist classrooms, reconfiguration and refurbishment of existing accommodation and car parking and bus drop off and collection. Construction of the project started in June 2023 and the estimated completion date is Summer 2024.
Dominican College, Portstewart was announced in January 2019 under SEP. The proposed project involves demolition of existing accommodation and a new build extension. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 2 (Concept Design).
St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s College, Claudy was announced in January 2019 under SEP. The proposed project involves the construction of a new standalone sports block to include: sports hall, PE Classroom, fitness suite and drama suite; extension and refurbishment of existing accommodation; and a 3G synthetic pitch. The project is currently at RIBA Stage 3 (Developed Design).
Mill Strand Integrated Primary School was announced as a major capital project under the Fresh Start Programme in March 2016. Works on site commenced February 2023 and the school is currently expected to handover Mid-May 2024.
Loretto College, Coleraine was one of twenty-eight major capital projects announced in March 2022. Unfortunately, all projects announced in 2022 have been paused due to the current budget position. The decision to pause these projects was taken in April 2023 and all schools impacted by the decision were notified by letter dated 25 April 2023.
There are also a number of smaller scale minor works projects being taken forward in the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205591%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=387093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=387093"}},{"id":"386931","reference":"AQW 5468/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail his plans for better safeguarding the wellbeing of homeless people with or without addiction issues.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail within this answer a copy has been placed in the Assembly Library to which I refer the member.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail within this answer a copy has been placed in the Assembly Library to which I refer the member.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205468%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386931"}},{"id":"386930","reference":"AQW 5467/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail how he will ensure the fair distribution of funding across Northern Ireland, provided by Invest NI, particularly outside of Belfast.","answerText":"Promoting regional economic balance is a priority for me and I have instructed Invest NI to increase its focus and resources at a sub-regional level.","answerHtml":"Promoting regional economic balance is a priority for me and I have instructed Invest NI to increase its focus and resources at a sub-regional level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205467%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386930","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386930"}},{"id":"386929","reference":"AQW 5466/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail how she plans to resolve (i) the issues barristers have with the timely and adequate payment of Legal Aid; and (ii) the backlog of cases due to be processed by our criminal justice system.","answerText":"Officials in my department have worked tirelessly throughout the year and have secured additional funding for legal aid to reflect the level of demand for payment in respect of cases completed. The opening allocation for 2023/24 was £93.385m and with additional funding the budget now stands at £106.3m. The value of bills received continues to be high and this level of demand will be factored into discussions on the 2024/25 budget. This is an example of the impact of inadequate funding of the department. Additional resources will be required to address the demand for payment of bills submitted. Current operational performance can be found at https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/lsa-operational-performance-2023-2024\n\nIn terms of plans to resolve the backlog of cases due to be processed by the criminal justice system, at the outset of the pandemic, the criminal justice system responded rapidly and innovatively so that confidence in the system was maintained and to ensure the safety of staff, those who use the system and those in our care. Key justice organisations (including PSNI, PPS, NICTS and the Department) and the judiciary have worked collaboratively to a system wide shared priority of recovery, in addition to individual recovery plans.\n\nNew ways of working were introduced, for example making better use of technology and digital platforms, which have had long term benefits for the justice system.\n\nJustice organisations successfully bid for additional resources during the years post Covid-19 up to and including 2023/24. The additional resources enabled collaborative efforts to be continued to sustain an increased throughput in courts of up to 115% capacity. Bids for funding in 2024/25 have been included in the recent Future Year Budget planning exercise.\n\nThe Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay within the system. This incorporates the efforts to recover the system, reducing backlogs and progresses work for long-term change.\n\nThis work is built around five key workstreams and will take forward existing work on committal reform, existing and emerging work in the digital arena and explore other areas for efficiencies such as early engagement, court remits and out of court disposals.\n\nThe system is presently under considerable pressure, dealing with increased caseload and although progress is being made, it will take time and resources to resolve this issue. There is no doubt the future financial outlook presents challenges to the resolving the backlog.","answerHtml":"Officials in my department have worked tirelessly throughout the year and have secured additional funding for legal aid to reflect the level of demand for payment in respect of cases completed. The opening allocation for 2023/24 was £93.385m and with additional funding the budget now stands at £106.3m. The value of bills received continues to be high and this level of demand will be factored into discussions on the 2024/25 budget. This is an example of the impact of inadequate funding of the department. Additional resources will be required to address the demand for payment of bills submitted. Current operational performance can be found at https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/lsa-operational-performance-2023-2024
In terms of plans to resolve the backlog of cases due to be processed by the criminal justice system, at the outset of the pandemic, the criminal justice system responded rapidly and innovatively so that confidence in the system was maintained and to ensure the safety of staff, those who use the system and those in our care. Key justice organisations (including PSNI, PPS, NICTS and the Department) and the judiciary have worked collaboratively to a system wide shared priority of recovery, in addition to individual recovery plans.
New ways of working were introduced, for example making better use of technology and digital platforms, which have had long term benefits for the justice system.
Justice organisations successfully bid for additional resources during the years post Covid-19 up to and including 2023/24. The additional resources enabled collaborative efforts to be continued to sustain an increased throughput in courts of up to 115% capacity. Bids for funding in 2024/25 have been included in the recent Future Year Budget planning exercise.
The Criminal Justice Board has prioritised a programme of work targeted at reducing avoidable delay within the system. This incorporates the efforts to recover the system, reducing backlogs and progresses work for long-term change.
This work is built around five key workstreams and will take forward existing work on committal reform, existing and emerging work in the digital arena and explore other areas for efficiencies such as early engagement, court remits and out of court disposals.
The system is presently under considerable pressure, dealing with increased caseload and although progress is being made, it will take time and resources to resolve this issue. There is no doubt the future financial outlook presents challenges to the resolving the backlog.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205466%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386929","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386929"}},{"id":"386928","reference":"AQW 5465/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail his plans to increase the provision of social housing and facilitate the building of new, affordable private developments.","answerText":"The ability to increase the supply of social housing is constrained by budget. My Department continues to work with the NIHE to bring forward measures to maximise the Social Housing Development Programme. Officials are also working with the NIHE and a range of public bodies to look at ways in which we can make delivery timelier; bring more stability to the programme; and explore how issues and pressures associated with existing delivery might be addressed.\n\nIn relation to new affordable homes, my Department continues to work with the sector to look at how we can increase the range of affordable options and products. This includes how we can support the delivery of more affordable homes through the local development plan process.\n\nIntermediate Rent is one such new affordable housing product. The Intermediate Rent Policy was published in March 2023 and a supply of homes will come forward under a future funding package which is in development.\n\nMy Department also funds Co-Ownership, which provides an alternative route into home ownership for people on low incomes. Importantly, around 20% of Co-Ownership homes are new build; offering an alternative affordable tenure in new housing developments.","answerHtml":"The ability to increase the supply of social housing is constrained by budget. My Department continues to work with the NIHE to bring forward measures to maximise the Social Housing Development Programme. Officials are also working with the NIHE and a range of public bodies to look at ways in which we can make delivery timelier; bring more stability to the programme; and explore how issues and pressures associated with existing delivery might be addressed.
In relation to new affordable homes, my Department continues to work with the sector to look at how we can increase the range of affordable options and products. This includes how we can support the delivery of more affordable homes through the local development plan process.
Intermediate Rent is one such new affordable housing product. The Intermediate Rent Policy was published in March 2023 and a supply of homes will come forward under a future funding package which is in development.
My Department also funds Co-Ownership, which provides an alternative route into home ownership for people on low incomes. Importantly, around 20% of Co-Ownership homes are new build; offering an alternative affordable tenure in new housing developments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205465%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386928","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386928"}},{"id":"386927","reference":"AQW 5464/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2024-02-05","answerBy":"2024-02-20","answered":"2024-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans for acting on the recommendations of the Bengoa report in reforming our health service.","answerText":"Reforming our Health Service to become more efficient and deliver a better service to all our citizens, young and old, is a key priority for my Department. Health and Wellbeing 2026: Delivering Together sets out my Department’s response to the recommendations included in the Bengoa Report. Delivering Together sets out to stabilise, reconfigure and to transform Health and Social Care services.\n\nSince the launch of Delivering Together in October 2016, three reports on the progress of the ring-fenced transformation funded projects have been published in 2017, 2019 and 2021. These reports are available at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/progressreportintroduction. The next progress report is currently being drafted.\n\nThere are several major areas of transformation and reconfiguration already underway and in the implementation phase, however, implementing health service transformation will require additional, sustained recurrent funding and support for change.","answerHtml":"Reforming our Health Service to become more efficient and deliver a better service to all our citizens, young and old, is a key priority for my Department. Health and Wellbeing 2026: Delivering Together sets out my Department’s response to the recommendations included in the Bengoa Report. Delivering Together sets out to stabilise, reconfigure and to transform Health and Social Care services.
Since the launch of Delivering Together in October 2016, three reports on the progress of the ring-fenced transformation funded projects have been published in 2017, 2019 and 2021. These reports are available at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/progressreportintroduction. The next progress report is currently being drafted.
There are several major areas of transformation and reconfiguration already underway and in the implementation phase, however, implementing health service transformation will require additional, sustained recurrent funding and support for change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205464%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=386927","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=386927"}},{"id":"385980","reference":"AQW 5358/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-28","answerBy":"2022-11-14","answered":"2022-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail the amount spent on (i) heating; and (ii) electricity in Parliament Buildings, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The table below shows the annual cost spent on gas (for heating) and electricity for Parliament Buildings for the period 2017-18 to 2022-23. Costs for 2022-23 are available up to the end of October 2022.\n\nYear\tElectricity\tGas\tTOTAL\n2017-18\t£173,663\t£86,702\t£260,365\n2018-19\t£198,170\t£91,063\t£289,233\n2019-20\t£199,999\t£82,104\t£282,103\n2020-21\t£203,780\t£81,948\t£285,728\n2021-22\t£237,203\t£246,365\t£483,568\n2022-23*\t£297,924\t£98,306\t£396,230\n\n* Figures updated to the end of October 2022\n\nIt should be noted that the increase in costs seen in both 2021-22 and 2022-23 to date are mostly due to pricing increases in the wholesale markets. Usage levels for both gas and electricity are published on the Assembly website:\n\nhttp://www.niassembly.gov.uk/about-the-assembly/corporate-information/sustainability/table-versions/","answerHtml":"The table below shows the annual cost spent on gas (for heating) and electricity for Parliament Buildings for the period 2017-18 to 2022-23. Costs for 2022-23 are available up to the end of October 2022.
| Year | Electricity | Gas | TOTAL |
| 2017-18 | £173,663 | £86,702 | £260,365 |
| 2018-19 | £198,170 | £91,063 | £289,233 |
| 2019-20 | £199,999 | £82,104 | £282,103 |
| 2020-21 | £203,780 | £81,948 | £285,728 |
| 2021-22 | £237,203 | £246,365 | £483,568 |
| 2022-23* | £297,924 | £98,306 | £396,230 |
* Figures updated to the end of October 2022
It should be noted that the increase in costs seen in both 2021-22 and 2022-23 to date are mostly due to pricing increases in the wholesale markets. Usage levels for both gas and electricity are published on the Assembly website:
http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/about-the-assembly/corporate-information/sustainability/table-versions/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205358%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385980"}},{"id":"385979","reference":"AQW 5357/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-28","answerBy":"2022-11-14","answered":"2022-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail the energy efficiency measures that have been put in place in Parliament Buildings in the last five years.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to the response given to AQO 2774/17-22 which provides details on previous improvements works (some of which fall outside the five-year time frame).\n\nThe Assembly Commission strives to be an exemplar organisation in terms of sustainable development and has implemented a range of measures to enhance energy efficiency and to improve the environmental performance of Parliament Buildings.\n\nTo reduce our energy consumption the following works have been carried out:\n\nInstalling additional metering systems to allow for better management of usage;\n\nInstalling LED lighting on Basement, 2nd, 3rd and 4th floor corridors and in offices on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors;\n\nInstalling more energy efficient LED external lighting around the building;\n\nInstalling more energy efficient LED lighting in the Assembly Chamber;\n\nIn collaboration with the Department of Finance, replacing the lights in the Upper and Lower car parks with new LED lights; and\n\nReplacing the TVs in Parliament Buildings with more energy efficient models.\n\nStaff in the Assembly Commission’s Sustainable Development Unit work closely with partners to introduce energy-saving solutions and ensure continuous improvement in our energy efficiency.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to the response given to AQO 2774/17-22 which provides details on previous improvements works (some of which fall outside the five-year time frame).
The Assembly Commission strives to be an exemplar organisation in terms of sustainable development and has implemented a range of measures to enhance energy efficiency and to improve the environmental performance of Parliament Buildings.
To reduce our energy consumption the following works have been carried out:
Installing additional metering systems to allow for better management of usage;
Installing LED lighting on Basement, 2nd, 3rd and 4th floor corridors and in offices on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th floors;
Installing more energy efficient LED external lighting around the building;
Installing more energy efficient LED lighting in the Assembly Chamber;
In collaboration with the Department of Finance, replacing the lights in the Upper and Lower car parks with new LED lights; and
Replacing the TVs in Parliament Buildings with more energy efficient models.
Staff in the Assembly Commission’s Sustainable Development Unit work closely with partners to introduce energy-saving solutions and ensure continuous improvement in our energy efficiency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205357%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385979"}},{"id":"385978","reference":"AQW 5356/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-28","answerBy":"2022-11-14","answered":"2022-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission for an update on steps to provide childcare facilities for staff.","answerText":"At its meeting on 5 November 2019, the Assembly Commission was advised that the then Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance (the Department), had liaised with the Assembly’s Clerk/Chief Executive, to explore the feasibility of opening a pre-school childcare facility on the Stormont Estate. The intention was that such a facility could be used by Members, Members’ staff, Assembly Commission staff and Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) staff working on the Estate.\n\nWhile some exploratory options and designs had been developed, considerable work was still needed to prepare a fully-worked business case. This was being developed by the Department, and it was intended that once a detailed proposal was developed, it would be brought to the Assembly Commission for its consideration.\n\nGiven the many interruptions to normal work activities since March 2020, arising from the Department’s response to COVID-19, the project was paused at that time.\n\nThe Department has advised that, at the time, the feasibility of a childcare facility on the Stormont Estate could have been considered as a potential action for inclusion in a draft Childcare Strategy. The Department has also advised that work on developing a Childcare Strategy has restarted with an indicative date of March 2023 for completion of a draft Strategy. Consultation is planned for summer 2023 and Executive approval is anticipated in late 2023/early 2024.\n\nThe Department envisages that a new action plan would be developed when the Strategy receives Executive Approval, however, it is not known at this stage if the Department’s response will include the provision of a childcare facility within the Stormont Estate, as consideration would be given to the significant changes within the working arrangements of NICS staff on the Estate (i.e. the implementation of Hybrid Working and the use of Connect2 hubs) which may impact on the requirement for an on-site location.\n\nIt is worth noting that since 2017, Members and Assembly staff can avail of HMRC’s Tax-Free Childcare scheme. This scheme is administered centrally by HMRC, and allows the payment for approved childcare (for example, from a childminder or nursery), to be made via an online childcare account. Up to £2,000 per year for each child is available to help with the costs of childcare. As with all schemes set up by HMRC, it has specific rules and regulations that must be met before it can be used.\n\nIn addition, some Members who met the relevant conditions, were able to purchase childcare vouchers using a salary sacrifice scheme. This arrangement meant that childcare vouchers could be purchased in a tax efficient manner. While the salary sacrifice arrangement ended in 2017, the scheme has remained open to Members who were already included in the scheme.","answerHtml":"At its meeting on 5 November 2019, the Assembly Commission was advised that the then Permanent Secretary of the Department of Finance (the Department), had liaised with the Assembly’s Clerk/Chief Executive, to explore the feasibility of opening a pre-school childcare facility on the Stormont Estate. The intention was that such a facility could be used by Members, Members’ staff, Assembly Commission staff and Northern Ireland Civil Service (NICS) staff working on the Estate.
While some exploratory options and designs had been developed, considerable work was still needed to prepare a fully-worked business case. This was being developed by the Department, and it was intended that once a detailed proposal was developed, it would be brought to the Assembly Commission for its consideration.
Given the many interruptions to normal work activities since March 2020, arising from the Department’s response to COVID-19, the project was paused at that time.
The Department has advised that, at the time, the feasibility of a childcare facility on the Stormont Estate could have been considered as a potential action for inclusion in a draft Childcare Strategy. The Department has also advised that work on developing a Childcare Strategy has restarted with an indicative date of March 2023 for completion of a draft Strategy. Consultation is planned for summer 2023 and Executive approval is anticipated in late 2023/early 2024.
The Department envisages that a new action plan would be developed when the Strategy receives Executive Approval, however, it is not known at this stage if the Department’s response will include the provision of a childcare facility within the Stormont Estate, as consideration would be given to the significant changes within the working arrangements of NICS staff on the Estate (i.e. the implementation of Hybrid Working and the use of Connect2 hubs) which may impact on the requirement for an on-site location.
It is worth noting that since 2017, Members and Assembly staff can avail of HMRC’s Tax-Free Childcare scheme. This scheme is administered centrally by HMRC, and allows the payment for approved childcare (for example, from a childminder or nursery), to be made via an online childcare account. Up to £2,000 per year for each child is available to help with the costs of childcare. As with all schemes set up by HMRC, it has specific rules and regulations that must be met before it can be used.
In addition, some Members who met the relevant conditions, were able to purchase childcare vouchers using a salary sacrifice scheme. This arrangement meant that childcare vouchers could be purchased in a tax efficient manner. While the salary sacrifice arrangement ended in 2017, the scheme has remained open to Members who were already included in the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205356%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385978"}},{"id":"385977","reference":"AQW 5355/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-28","answerBy":"2022-11-14","answered":"2022-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to outline what planned work it has to improve disability accessibility in Parliament Buildings.","answerText":"As noted in the reply to AQW 773/22-27, the Assembly Commission has already undertaken a considerable number of accessibility initiatives in Parliament Buildings.\n\nWhile there are no current plans to carry out any additional work, the Assembly Commission’s commitment with regards to accessibility is reflected in its Disability Action Plan 2022-25 which was approved in February 2022.\n\nThe Assembly Commission will continue to give due consideration to opportunities to improve the facilities in Parliament Buildings to ensure it is accessible to everyone.","answerHtml":"As noted in the reply to AQW 773/22-27, the Assembly Commission has already undertaken a considerable number of accessibility initiatives in Parliament Buildings.
While there are no current plans to carry out any additional work, the Assembly Commission’s commitment with regards to accessibility is reflected in its Disability Action Plan 2022-25 which was approved in February 2022.
The Assembly Commission will continue to give due consideration to opportunities to improve the facilities in Parliament Buildings to ensure it is accessible to everyone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205355%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385977"}},{"id":"385976","reference":"AQW 5354/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-28","answerBy":"2022-11-14","answered":"2022-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail the amount paid in fuel allowance to MLAs in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Members may claim expenses related to their Constituency Offices, which includes amounts for heating fuel. While there is no specific “fuel allowance” available to Members, Constituency Office Operating Expenses (COOE) covers the ongoing, day to day expenses that may be claimed for running an office and this includes heating oil or gas.\n\nThe amounts paid to Members for oil and gas for the past five complete years, together with the amounts paid for this financial year from April 2022 to October 2022, are set out in the table below.\n\nYear\tGas\tOil\tTotal\n2017-18\t£10,990\t£15,576\t£26,566\n2018-19\t£14,693\t£16,079\t£30,772\n2019-20\t£14,030\t£15,018\t£29,048\n2020-21\t£9,026\t£8,114\t£17,140\n2021-22\t£14,715\t£14,398\t£29,113\n2022-23*\t£8,030\t£5,972\t£14,002\n* April 2022 to October 2022","answerHtml":"Members may claim expenses related to their Constituency Offices, which includes amounts for heating fuel. While there is no specific “fuel allowance” available to Members, Constituency Office Operating Expenses (COOE) covers the ongoing, day to day expenses that may be claimed for running an office and this includes heating oil or gas.
The amounts paid to Members for oil and gas for the past five complete years, together with the amounts paid for this financial year from April 2022 to October 2022, are set out in the table below.
| Year | Gas | Oil | Total |
| 2017-18 | £10,990 | £15,576 | £26,566 |
| 2018-19 | £14,693 | £16,079 | £30,772 |
| 2019-20 | £14,030 | £15,018 | £29,048 |
| 2020-21 | £9,026 | £8,114 | £17,140 |
| 2021-22 | £14,715 | £14,398 | £29,113 |
| 2022-23* | £8,030 | £5,972 | £14,002 |
| * April 2022 to October 2022 |
Universal Credit (UC) is now the main working age benefit in Northern Ireland and is available to both in-work and out of work claimants.
UC was designed to ensure that claimants are better off in work. In contrast to the more rigid rules of older legacy benefits, UC does not restrict the number of hours that a claimant can work, claimants can take on temporary work without having to make a new claim to UC, and UC will continue to provide support between periods of work.
It is a key principle of UC that working claimants on low pay should be supported to find more work, or better paying work. Claimants with earnings below a prescribed threshold receive additional support from Work Coaches to help achieve this. Furthermore, when UC claimants undertake training to enhance their employment prospects and receive a qualifying training allowance to meet specific costs for training or development, the amount of UC they receive may not be impacted by that training allowance.
As the amount of a UC claimant’s employed earnings increases, the amount of UC they receive decreases. This is called the ‘earnings taper.’ The taper has been reduced from 65% to 55%. This allows working claimants to keep more of their UC along with their earnings.
UC also makes provision for a ‘work allowance’ which is a prescribed amount of income that claimants, in specific circumstances, can earn before the earnings taper is applied. Where a qualifying claimant’s earnings are below this amount, there is no reduction to their UC, and the taper will only apply to earnings above the work allowance.
I am aware that the cost of childcare has increased significantly in recent years and can form a real barrier to work for people with responsibility for children. UC also makes provision for 85% of qualifying childcare costs to be reimbursed to working parents in an effort to remove this barrier.
Addressing poverty in all its forms is a key priority for me. I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty for all in our communities, including working people, right across Northern Ireland.
The Department for Communities promotes the value of work, and the positive impact it can have on poverty, health and wellbeing, social inclusion, and our economy.
In drafting the Anti-poverty strategy, I will be engaging with my Executive colleagues, to ensure that as far as possible we encourage people seeking employment and remove barriers that prevent working people from staying in work.
I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Strategy, and final decisions on the content and implementation of the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be subject to Executive agreement as it is an Executive Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205340%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385675"}},{"id":"385674","reference":"AQW 5339/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-27","answerBy":"2024-02-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of how the Northern Ireland Carbon Intensity Indicators 2022 report can be an indication that farmers are reducing their carbon emissions in specific processes.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205339%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385674","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385674"}},{"id":"385673","reference":"AQW 5338/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-27","answerBy":"2024-02-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the ways in which he will translate the success of the regional Foot and Ankle Waiting List Initiative into waiting lists in other areas of healthcare.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205338%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385673","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385673"}},{"id":"385672","reference":"AQW 5337/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-27","answerBy":"2024-02-19","answered":"2024-09-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the estimated number and percentage of properties where average internet speeds will remain below 30Mbps, following the completion of Project Stratum.","answerText":"This question was asked in the previous mandate and to the previous Minister for the Economy.","answerHtml":"This question was asked in the previous mandate and to the previous Minister for the Economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205337%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385672","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385672"}},{"id":"385454","reference":"AQW 5283/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-26","answerBy":"2024-02-16","answered":"2024-09-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide details on the funding provided to (i) art projects; and (ii) arts organisations in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“A summary of funding provided to (i) art projects; and (ii) arts organisations in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years is set out below.\n\nFinance Year\tExchequer\tLottery\nValue\tValue\n2023/24\t£162,354\t£179,189\n2022/23\t£149,833\t£205,493\n2021/22\t£202,821\t£105,380\n2020/21\t£960,186\t£37,665\n2019/20\t£116,779\t£88,224\nTOTALS\t\t£1,591,973\t\t£615,951\n\nThis also includes programmes funded by National Lottery funding and includes funding to arts organisations and individuals.”\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Arts Council directly. Making direct contact with the Arts Council will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for the Arts Council of Northern Ireland.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“A summary of funding provided to (i) art projects; and (ii) arts organisations in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years is set out below.
| Finance Year | Exchequer | Lottery | ||
| Value | Value | |||
| 2023/24 | £162,354 | £179,189 | ||
| 2022/23 | £149,833 | £205,493 | ||
| 2021/22 | £202,821 | £105,380 | ||
| 2020/21 | £960,186 | £37,665 | ||
| 2019/20 | £116,779 | £88,224 | ||
| TOTALS | £1,591,973 | £615,951 |
This also includes programmes funded by National Lottery funding and includes funding to arts organisations and individuals.”
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Arts Council directly. Making direct contact with the Arts Council will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205283%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385454","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385454"}},{"id":"385453","reference":"AQW 5282/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-26","answerBy":"2022-11-10","answered":"2022-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of parking fines issued in each month of the last five years.","answerText":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205282%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385453","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385453"}},{"id":"385452","reference":"AQW 5281/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-26","answerBy":"2022-11-10","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the information that recommends people continue to receive COVID vaccinations.","answerText":"Throughout the course of the COVID-19 vaccination programme, we have followed the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations (JCVI), an independent expert advisory committee. JCVI consider all the available scientific evidence, both published and unpublished, before offering their advice to the four UK Health Ministers. JCVI published their advice in relation to the autumn booster programme: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/jcvi-updated-statement-on-the-covid-19-vaccination-programme-for-autumn-2022/joint-committee-on-vaccination-and-immunisation-jcvi-updated-statement-on-the-covid-19-vaccination-programme-for-autumn-2022\n\nCOVID-19 is more serious in older people and in people with certain underlying health conditions. This winter it is expected that many respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and flu may be circulating at high levels, this may put increasing pressure on hospitals and other health care services. For these reasons, people aged 50 years and over, those in care homes, and those aged 5 years and over in clinical risk groups are being offered an autumn booster of COVID-19 vaccine, in line with JCVI advice.\n\nA booster is also be offered to front-line health and social care staff, those who care for vulnerable individuals and families of individuals with weakened immune systems.\n\nThe autumn booster is being offered to those at high risk of the complications of COVID-19 infection, who may have not been boosted for a few months. As the number of COVID-19 infections increases over the winter, this booster should help to reduce their risk of being admitted to hospital with COVID-19. I would therefore encourage all eligible individuals to continue to follow the expert advice of JCVI and take up the offer of vaccination","answerHtml":"Throughout the course of the COVID-19 vaccination programme, we have followed the advice of the Joint Committee on Vaccinations and Immunisations (JCVI), an independent expert advisory committee. JCVI consider all the available scientific evidence, both published and unpublished, before offering their advice to the four UK Health Ministers. JCVI published their advice in relation to the autumn booster programme: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/jcvi-updated-statement-on-the-covid-19-vaccination-programme-for-autumn-2022/joint-committee-on-vaccination-and-immunisation-jcvi-updated-statement-on-the-covid-19-vaccination-programme-for-autumn-2022
COVID-19 is more serious in older people and in people with certain underlying health conditions. This winter it is expected that many respiratory infections, including COVID-19 and flu may be circulating at high levels, this may put increasing pressure on hospitals and other health care services. For these reasons, people aged 50 years and over, those in care homes, and those aged 5 years and over in clinical risk groups are being offered an autumn booster of COVID-19 vaccine, in line with JCVI advice.
A booster is also be offered to front-line health and social care staff, those who care for vulnerable individuals and families of individuals with weakened immune systems.
The autumn booster is being offered to those at high risk of the complications of COVID-19 infection, who may have not been boosted for a few months. As the number of COVID-19 infections increases over the winter, this booster should help to reduce their risk of being admitted to hospital with COVID-19. I would therefore encourage all eligible individuals to continue to follow the expert advice of JCVI and take up the offer of vaccination
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385452","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385452"}},{"id":"385451","reference":"AQW 5280/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-26","answerBy":"2024-02-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the (i) number of women currently on a waiting list for gynaecology; and (ii) corresponding figures for each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205280%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385451","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385451"}},{"id":"385450","reference":"AQW 5279/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-26","answerBy":"2024-02-06","answered":"2024-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of how the functions of her Department, which require ministerial approval, will be impacted by a vacancy in the Ministerial office, post 28 October 2022; and (ii) to list the upcoming issues of importance that will be impacted by a vacancy in the Ministerial office.","answerText":"Following my appointment as Minister of Justice on 3 February 2024, I look forward to being able to advance a number of important issues relating to the work of the Department of Justice.\n\nIn the absence of a Minister since 28 October 2022, it was not possible to progress a number of issues within the Department including inter alia:\n\nAgreement of a way forward following public consultation on the future use of audio and video links within courts and completion of Assembly procedures relating to six-monthly extensions of current provisions.\n\nAgreement of a way forward following public consultation on the future use of audio and video links within courts and completion of Assembly procedures relating to six-monthly extensions of current provisions.\n\nAgreement of a way forward following a Call for Evidence on Abuse of Position of Trust.\n\nDecision on policy options in relation to coronial investigations into deaths abroad.\n\nA number of decisions were taken, however, by senior Departmental officials under the provisions of the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2022 when considered in the public interest. Details of decisions taken by senior officials that would normally have been taken by a Minister are available from here: www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/articles/reports-decisions-taken-by-northern-ireland-departments","answerHtml":"Following my appointment as Minister of Justice on 3 February 2024, I look forward to being able to advance a number of important issues relating to the work of the Department of Justice.
In the absence of a Minister since 28 October 2022, it was not possible to progress a number of issues within the Department including inter alia:
Agreement of a way forward following public consultation on the future use of audio and video links within courts and completion of Assembly procedures relating to six-monthly extensions of current provisions.
Agreement of a way forward following public consultation on the future use of audio and video links within courts and completion of Assembly procedures relating to six-monthly extensions of current provisions.
Agreement of a way forward following a Call for Evidence on Abuse of Position of Trust.
Decision on policy options in relation to coronial investigations into deaths abroad.
A number of decisions were taken, however, by senior Departmental officials under the provisions of the Northern Ireland (Executive Formation etc) Act 2022 when considered in the public interest. Details of decisions taken by senior officials that would normally have been taken by a Minister are available from here: www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/articles/reports-decisions-taken-by-northern-ireland-departments
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205279%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385450","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385450"}},{"id":"385328","reference":"AQW 5224/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-25","answerBy":"2022-11-09","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of people (i) arrested; (ii) charged; and (iii) successfully prosecuted, in relation to gun attacks in the Causeway Coast and Glens area, in the last three years.","answerText":"The recording of information on persons arrested and charged by police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nThe Police Service of Northern Ireland maintain their own statistics on persons arrested and charged by them. You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the issues raised in parts (i) and (ii) of the question to the PSNI.\n\nIn relation to the information requested in part (iii) of the question, prosecutions and convictions datasets held by the Department do not contain detail in relation to the location in which an offence occurred, so it is not possible from information held, to identify cases where there has been a successful prosecution in relation to gun attacks in the Causeway Coast and Glens area, in the last three years.","answerHtml":"The recording of information on persons arrested and charged by police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland maintain their own statistics on persons arrested and charged by them. You may, therefore, wish to direct any query relating to the issues raised in parts (i) and (ii) of the question to the PSNI.
In relation to the information requested in part (iii) of the question, prosecutions and convictions datasets held by the Department do not contain detail in relation to the location in which an offence occurred, so it is not possible from information held, to identify cases where there has been a successful prosecution in relation to gun attacks in the Causeway Coast and Glens area, in the last three years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205224%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385328"}},{"id":"385327","reference":"AQW 5223/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-25","answerBy":"2022-11-09","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the mechanism by which motorists from the Republic of Ireland, found to be speeding in Northern Ireland, are able to be fined or prosecuted, and vice versa.","answerText":"The current legislation, which allows me to remain as Minister, will expire on 28 October 2022 due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive. Unfortunately, my officials will be unable to provide the information sought by the Member before this date to enable me to respond to this AQW.","answerHtml":"The current legislation, which allows me to remain as Minister, will expire on 28 October 2022 due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive. Unfortunately, my officials will be unable to provide the information sought by the Member before this date to enable me to respond to this AQW.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205223%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385327","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385327"}},{"id":"385326","reference":"AQW 5222/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-25","answerBy":"2022-11-09","answered":"2022-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what consideration he has given to bringing forward legislation, similar to what exists in Scotland and Wales, that would require planning permission to be obtained when a property changes from a permanently occupied to a periodically occupied home; and (ii) for his assessment of how this would help local government regulate the numbers of second homes and dwelling houses in its jurisdiction.","answerText":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205222%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385326"}},{"id":"385325","reference":"AQW 5221/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-25","answerBy":"2022-11-09","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the health facilities that have yet to fully open, or re-open, since the Covid pandemic.","answerText":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205221%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385325","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385325"}},{"id":"385139","reference":"AQW 5163/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-24","answerBy":"2022-11-08","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the efforts she is making to ensure that adequate police numbers are (i) funded; (ii) retained; and (iii) enhanced.","answerText":"The current legislation, which allows me to remain as Minister, will expire on 28 October 2022 due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive. Unfortunately, my officials will be unable to provide the information sought by the Member before this date to enable me to respond to this AQW.","answerHtml":"The current legislation, which allows me to remain as Minister, will expire on 28 October 2022 due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive. Unfortunately, my officials will be unable to provide the information sought by the Member before this date to enable me to respond to this AQW.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205163%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385139","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385139"}},{"id":"385138","reference":"AQW 5162/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-24","answerBy":"2022-11-08","answered":"2022-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the reasons for the delay in the full opening of the A6 road improvement project; and (ii) the efforts he is making to expedite the project to completion.","answerText":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205162%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385138","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385138"}},{"id":"385137","reference":"AQW 5161/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-24","answerBy":"2022-11-08","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what efforts or recommendations she has made to increase the representation of women in high profile positions within the police and the wider criminal justice sector.","answerText":"The current legislation, which allows me to remain as Minister, will expire on 28 October 2022 due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive. Unfortunately, my officials will be unable to provide the information sought by the Member before this date to enable me to respond to this AQW.","answerHtml":"The current legislation, which allows me to remain as Minister, will expire on 28 October 2022 due to the continued absence of a functioning Executive. Unfortunately, my officials will be unable to provide the information sought by the Member before this date to enable me to respond to this AQW.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205161%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385137","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385137"}},{"id":"385136","reference":"AQW 5160/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-24","answerBy":"2022-11-08","answered":"2022-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the efforts made by his Department and NI Water to identify and quantify all discharges of raw sewage into the sea and other waterways.","answerText":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately my officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time I had remaining in office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205160%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385136","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385136"}},{"id":"385135","reference":"AQW 5159/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-24","answerBy":"2022-10-27","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether (i) he will enable the reintroduction of direct payments to family members, or people in the same household, acting as personal assistants to a care recipient; and (ii) the staffing and care provision shortfalls being experienced in the sector constitute exceptional circumstances.","answerText":"The temporary flexibilities, which included the possibility of employing a family member as a personal assistant, were introduced as a temporary response to the unprecedented circumstances being faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nThe Personal Social Services and Children’s Services (Direct Payments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 set out provisions relating to Direct Payments. These state that Direct Payments should not be used to pay spouses/partners or family members and their partners who may be living in the same house as the recipient unless it is necessary to meet assessed needs to an appropriate standard. This is broadly analogous to the position in other parts of the UK.\n\nAs noted above, usually a close family member who lives in the same household as a person requiring care is not permitted to be employed via Direct Payments. However, allowing temporary flexibility was seen to be reasonable given the very exceptional circumstances and risks of infection that existed at the time in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. A short-term, temporary arrangement could therefore be considered in discussion with the named worker and with prior, written permission from the local Trust.\n\nThe flexibilities contained in the guidance were initially due to come to an end in March 2022 but were subsequently extended to 30 September 2022. My Department wrote to the Trusts on 26 September 2022 to advise the phasing out of such arrangements, and to revert to previous practice.\n\nIn general terms, Direct Payments are not intended to replace existing support networks with family members, and for that reason only in exceptional circumstances can they be used to buy a service from a spouse or civil partner, relative or anyone who lives in the same house. If a service user feels that their situation falls into this category, they should discuss it with their relevant HSC Trust who will consider on a case by case basis.\n\nI recognise that staffing issues, along with increased demand for services have been, and continue to be a challenge across the care sector. Work has been ongoing to deliver additional funding, both in-year and on a recurrent basis, to try to alleviate the ongoing pressures on the system, particularly in regards to recruitment and retention of staff.\n\nI was therefore pleased to announce an uplift of £7.1m for 2022-23 for Direct Payments on 6 October. This should see personal assistants receive an uplift of around 12% in their hourly rate and allow individuals who employ personal assistants via Direct Payments to offer improved rates of pay and, in turn, support the continued provision of care in the context of an increasingly competitive employment market. My officials have written to Trusts advising them of the uplift and asking that the payments are progressed as quickly as practicable.\n\nIndividuals employed through Self-Directed Support play a vital role in enhancing the quality of live for the person they are employed by, and I am pleased to be able to recognise the value they bring to both the individuals and the wider HSC system by this £7.1m funding package.\n\nWhilst we continue to operate in a very challenging environment, I will continue to support the care sector in their efforts to meet the current demand for care in the community.","answerHtml":"The temporary flexibilities, which included the possibility of employing a family member as a personal assistant, were introduced as a temporary response to the unprecedented circumstances being faced during the Covid-19 pandemic.
The Personal Social Services and Children’s Services (Direct Payments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004 set out provisions relating to Direct Payments. These state that Direct Payments should not be used to pay spouses/partners or family members and their partners who may be living in the same house as the recipient unless it is necessary to meet assessed needs to an appropriate standard. This is broadly analogous to the position in other parts of the UK.
As noted above, usually a close family member who lives in the same household as a person requiring care is not permitted to be employed via Direct Payments. However, allowing temporary flexibility was seen to be reasonable given the very exceptional circumstances and risks of infection that existed at the time in relation to the Covid-19 pandemic. A short-term, temporary arrangement could therefore be considered in discussion with the named worker and with prior, written permission from the local Trust.
The flexibilities contained in the guidance were initially due to come to an end in March 2022 but were subsequently extended to 30 September 2022. My Department wrote to the Trusts on 26 September 2022 to advise the phasing out of such arrangements, and to revert to previous practice.
In general terms, Direct Payments are not intended to replace existing support networks with family members, and for that reason only in exceptional circumstances can they be used to buy a service from a spouse or civil partner, relative or anyone who lives in the same house. If a service user feels that their situation falls into this category, they should discuss it with their relevant HSC Trust who will consider on a case by case basis.
I recognise that staffing issues, along with increased demand for services have been, and continue to be a challenge across the care sector. Work has been ongoing to deliver additional funding, both in-year and on a recurrent basis, to try to alleviate the ongoing pressures on the system, particularly in regards to recruitment and retention of staff.
I was therefore pleased to announce an uplift of £7.1m for 2022-23 for Direct Payments on 6 October. This should see personal assistants receive an uplift of around 12% in their hourly rate and allow individuals who employ personal assistants via Direct Payments to offer improved rates of pay and, in turn, support the continued provision of care in the context of an increasingly competitive employment market. My officials have written to Trusts advising them of the uplift and asking that the payments are progressed as quickly as practicable.
Individuals employed through Self-Directed Support play a vital role in enhancing the quality of live for the person they are employed by, and I am pleased to be able to recognise the value they bring to both the individuals and the wider HSC system by this £7.1m funding package.
Whilst we continue to operate in a very challenging environment, I will continue to support the care sector in their efforts to meet the current demand for care in the community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205159%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385135"}},{"id":"385029","reference":"AQW 5112/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-21","answerBy":"2022-11-07","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for an update on (i) the amount of money issued in error under the furlough scheme; and (ii) the amount successfully recovered.","answerText":"The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was established and administered by the British Government. HMRC have published estimates in relation to error and fraud of the scheme which can be found here; whilst their information on repayments is available from their Annual Report and Accounts 2020-21 which can be found here.","answerHtml":"The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme was established and administered by the British Government. HMRC have published estimates in relation to error and fraud of the scheme which can be found here; whilst their information on repayments is available from their Annual Report and Accounts 2020-21 which can be found here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205112%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=385029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=385029"}},{"id":"384997","reference":"AQW 5080/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-21","answerBy":"2022-11-07","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the contingency plans in place for expecting mothers should midwives vote to take strike action.","answerText":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205080%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384997","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384997"}},{"id":"384996","reference":"AQW 5079/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-21","answerBy":"2022-11-07","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps that are being taken to improve the signage and visibility of publicly accessible defibrillators.","answerText":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205079%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384996"}},{"id":"384995","reference":"AQW 5078/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-21","answerBy":"2022-11-07","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the average waiting time, per constituency, for the (a) diagnosis of; and (b) treatment for hip replacement surgery; and (ii) the average time spent in hospital per hip replacement operation.","answerText":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205078%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384995","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384995"}},{"id":"384994","reference":"AQW 5077/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-21","answerBy":"2022-11-07","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the recent outbreak of avian influenza and the threat it poses to the Northern Ireland poultry industry; and (ii) to detail the financial safety nets in place to support any farmers who experience an outbreak.","answerText":"In recent weeks, a significant surge of avian influenza cases has been seen across Great Britain (GB) and the figures continue to rise on a daily basis. Since 1 October 2022 there have been over 60 cases of HPAI H5N1 in poultry and captive birds across GB.\n\nHPAI H5N1 has also been confirmed in captive birds at Castle Espie, Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT). A 3km disease control zone has been put in place and my officials are working closely with WWT representatives on the disease control measures required. There have also been over 50 wild birds detected with HPAI H5N1 from across Northern Ireland (NI) in recent months.\n\nAn outbreak of bird flu will have a devastating impact on farmers and their families, not to mention the wider impacts on the NI poultry flock and international trade. As a precautionary step to help protect the NI poultry flock, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been declared for all poultry and captive birds across NI from noon on 17 October 2022. 7.The AIPZ places a legal requirement on all bird keepers in NI to follow strict biosecurity measures. This applies if you keep pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard or hobby flock.\n\nIn relation to compensation The Disease of Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 (the Order) provides that DAERA will pay compensation at current market value for all birds culled, at the Department’s direction, to mitigate against the risk of avian influenza spread from an infected premises.","answerHtml":"In recent weeks, a significant surge of avian influenza cases has been seen across Great Britain (GB) and the figures continue to rise on a daily basis. Since 1 October 2022 there have been over 60 cases of HPAI H5N1 in poultry and captive birds across GB.
HPAI H5N1 has also been confirmed in captive birds at Castle Espie, Wildfowl and Wetland Trust (WWT). A 3km disease control zone has been put in place and my officials are working closely with WWT representatives on the disease control measures required. There have also been over 50 wild birds detected with HPAI H5N1 from across Northern Ireland (NI) in recent months.
An outbreak of bird flu will have a devastating impact on farmers and their families, not to mention the wider impacts on the NI poultry flock and international trade. As a precautionary step to help protect the NI poultry flock, an Avian Influenza Prevention Zone (AIPZ) has been declared for all poultry and captive birds across NI from noon on 17 October 2022. 7.The AIPZ places a legal requirement on all bird keepers in NI to follow strict biosecurity measures. This applies if you keep pet birds, commercial flocks or just a few birds in a backyard or hobby flock.
In relation to compensation The Disease of Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 (the Order) provides that DAERA will pay compensation at current market value for all birds culled, at the Department’s direction, to mitigate against the risk of avian influenza spread from an infected premises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205077%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384994"}},{"id":"384898","reference":"AQW 5035/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-20","answerBy":"2024-02-12","answered":"2024-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 3962/22-27, (i) to detail the earliest potential date when decisions to change the eligibility criteria for free school meals and the school uniform grant will come into effect; and (ii) whether she has plans to expedite this process in light of the cost of living crisis and its impact on families’ ability to pay for school meals and uniforms.","answerText":"My Department is continuing to progress a review of the eligibility criteria for free school meals and uniform grants. I will be considering the next steps for this review in the time ahead.","answerHtml":"My Department is continuing to progress a review of the eligibility criteria for free school meals and uniform grants. I will be considering the next steps for this review in the time ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384898"}},{"id":"384891","reference":"AQW 5028/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-20","answerBy":"2022-11-04","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the £5.3m support package for community pharmacies, to help meet the rising costs of medicines, will cover all the price increases.","answerText":"Community pharmacy representatives have highlighted inflationary pressures in relation to the cost of medicines. In the last number of months there has been a marked increase in the market prices of a small number of medicines versus the reference Drug Tariff price. Where this is identified, community pharmacies are reimbursed at the higher price and this is known as a concessionary price.\n\nWhile relatively small in number, the cost of concessionary prices has risen each month and at September was £1.7m.\n\nThis additional cost is fully reimbursed. However, as community pharmacies are having to manage the risk in advance of concessionary prices being awarded, my Department has increased the amount of concessionary price advance by £0.5m to £1.5m and will keep this under review.\n\nFurthermore, my Department had provided a special advance payment of £35m to community pharmacies at the beginning of the COVID-19 emergency. This has been reclaimed on a gradual basis be retracting £1.4m each month. Given the cashflow issues being reported, my Department has suspended this retraction for a period of three months.\n\nFinally, my Department is processing additional funding of £0.6m to community pharmacy from existing programme funds. It is anticipated these measure will alleviate the issues being faced and my Department will keep this issue under review.","answerHtml":"Community pharmacy representatives have highlighted inflationary pressures in relation to the cost of medicines. In the last number of months there has been a marked increase in the market prices of a small number of medicines versus the reference Drug Tariff price. Where this is identified, community pharmacies are reimbursed at the higher price and this is known as a concessionary price.
While relatively small in number, the cost of concessionary prices has risen each month and at September was £1.7m.
This additional cost is fully reimbursed. However, as community pharmacies are having to manage the risk in advance of concessionary prices being awarded, my Department has increased the amount of concessionary price advance by £0.5m to £1.5m and will keep this under review.
Furthermore, my Department had provided a special advance payment of £35m to community pharmacies at the beginning of the COVID-19 emergency. This has been reclaimed on a gradual basis be retracting £1.4m each month. Given the cashflow issues being reported, my Department has suspended this retraction for a period of three months.
Finally, my Department is processing additional funding of £0.6m to community pharmacy from existing programme funds. It is anticipated these measure will alleviate the issues being faced and my Department will keep this issue under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205028%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384891","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384891"}},{"id":"384890","reference":"AQW 5027/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-20","answerBy":"2022-11-04","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) whether community pharmacies regularly pay more for medicines than they are reimbursed for by his Department; and (ii) what plans he has to make changes to the drug tariff to enable community pharmacies to dispense medicines more affordably and without cost to themselves.","answerText":"Contractors are not reimbursed on an individual dispensed medicine basis. Under current funding arrangements for community pharmacies, there is an agreed level of retained purchased profit (also known as “margin”) within the system. This figure is currently a minimum of £26.5 million.\n\nIn order to determine that the remuneration to pharmacy contractors is both fair and reasonable, (and delivering the agreed level of retained purchase profit), the Ongoing Margin Survey is carried out each year. The aim of the margin survey is to estimate the level of “margin” community pharmacies are able to retain from purchasing medicines. The Ongoing Margin Survey is managed by a multidisciplinary group which has representations from Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the DoH and both the operational and analytical teams from the Business Services Organisation (BSO). An Independent Assessor verifies calculations and attends all meeting of the multi-disciplinary group.\n\nAs previously stated, the current agreed level of retained purchase profit (“margin”) is a minimum of £26.5 million per annum. Results from the last two years which have been completed (19/20 and 20/21) indicates levels of margin significantly in excess of this figure.\n\nThe Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in England consulted on a number of community pharmacy drug reimbursement reform proposals back in 2019. DHSC are now beginning to implement these changes to the English Drug Tariff, and as the NIDT is currently reflective of the English Drug Tariff, a consultation on potential changes to the Northern Ireland Tariff was issued in March 2022.\n\nMy Department will be working together with our colleagues in CPNI on the outworkings of this consultation over the coming months, including consideration of potential impacts and mitigations","answerHtml":"Contractors are not reimbursed on an individual dispensed medicine basis. Under current funding arrangements for community pharmacies, there is an agreed level of retained purchased profit (also known as “margin”) within the system. This figure is currently a minimum of £26.5 million.
In order to determine that the remuneration to pharmacy contractors is both fair and reasonable, (and delivering the agreed level of retained purchase profit), the Ongoing Margin Survey is carried out each year. The aim of the margin survey is to estimate the level of “margin” community pharmacies are able to retain from purchasing medicines. The Ongoing Margin Survey is managed by a multidisciplinary group which has representations from Community Pharmacy Northern Ireland (CPNI), the DoH and both the operational and analytical teams from the Business Services Organisation (BSO). An Independent Assessor verifies calculations and attends all meeting of the multi-disciplinary group.
As previously stated, the current agreed level of retained purchase profit (“margin”) is a minimum of £26.5 million per annum. Results from the last two years which have been completed (19/20 and 20/21) indicates levels of margin significantly in excess of this figure.
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) in England consulted on a number of community pharmacy drug reimbursement reform proposals back in 2019. DHSC are now beginning to implement these changes to the English Drug Tariff, and as the NIDT is currently reflective of the English Drug Tariff, a consultation on potential changes to the Northern Ireland Tariff was issued in March 2022.
My Department will be working together with our colleagues in CPNI on the outworkings of this consultation over the coming months, including consideration of potential impacts and mitigations
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%205027%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384890","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384890"}},{"id":"384738","reference":"AQW 4927/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2022-11-03","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what conversations she has had with the Chief Constable regarding potential cost-efficiency measures in the PSNI, including the scaling back of services, pay and staff.","answerText":"I have regular meetings with the Chief Constable and we discuss a range of policing issues, including the impact of in-year pressures. I last met with the Chief Constable as part of our regular stocktakes on 11 October and we discussed the PSNI’s financial position amongst other matters.\n\nIn the absence of an Executive and a budget, the financial position for the justice system as a whole is extremely challenging. PSNI has provided my Department with regular updates of the in-year pressures they are currently facing which, as with all parts of the justice system, are significant.\n\nHowever, the prioritisation of policing resources is ultimately an operational matter for the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting his operational independence and the role of the Policing Board.","answerHtml":"I have regular meetings with the Chief Constable and we discuss a range of policing issues, including the impact of in-year pressures. I last met with the Chief Constable as part of our regular stocktakes on 11 October and we discussed the PSNI’s financial position amongst other matters.
In the absence of an Executive and a budget, the financial position for the justice system as a whole is extremely challenging. PSNI has provided my Department with regular updates of the in-year pressures they are currently facing which, as with all parts of the justice system, are significant.
However, the prioritisation of policing resources is ultimately an operational matter for the Chief Constable who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting his operational independence and the role of the Policing Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204927%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384738","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384738"}},{"id":"384737","reference":"AQW 4926/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2024-02-09","answered":"2024-05-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the steps being taken to introduce a Universal Basic Income.","answerText":"I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty in all its forms for our communities right across Northern Ireland.\n\nI am aware that Universal Basic Income has been raised by stakeholders during the Anti-Poverty Strategy co-design process. I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Strategy and final content will be subject to Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"I am committed to delivering long-term, sustainable solutions to poverty in all its forms for our communities right across Northern Ireland.
I am aware that Universal Basic Income has been raised by stakeholders during the Anti-Poverty Strategy co-design process. I am currently considering the next steps to be taken in relation to the Strategy and final content will be subject to Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204926%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384737","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384737"}},{"id":"384736","reference":"AQW 4925/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2024-02-09","answered":"2024-09-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how is she ensuring that the needs and rights of children in families, who rely on benefits, are being met.","answerText":"The Department is committed to supporting people through the welfare benefits system.\n\nA range of measures have been introduced, including:\n\n47% increase in the maximum amount of childcare costs available under Universal Credit from 28 June 2023,\n\n10.1% increase in working age benefits from April 2023,\n\na further 6.7% increase from April 2024, and\n\nan increase in Local Housing Allowance rates to the 30th percentile of local market rents from April 2024.\n\nA package of Cost of Living support payments was paid over the course of the 2023/24 financial year to those in receipt of certain means-tested benefits, disability benefits and pensions.\n\nIn addition, in Northern Ireland, families with children are protected from the effects of the Benefit Cap and Social Sector Size Criteria (Bedroom Tax) through existing welfare mitigation schemes.\n\nFurther information on all support available can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/benefits-and-money","answerHtml":"The Department is committed to supporting people through the welfare benefits system.
A range of measures have been introduced, including:
47% increase in the maximum amount of childcare costs available under Universal Credit from 28 June 2023,
10.1% increase in working age benefits from April 2023,
a further 6.7% increase from April 2024, and
an increase in Local Housing Allowance rates to the 30th percentile of local market rents from April 2024.
A package of Cost of Living support payments was paid over the course of the 2023/24 financial year to those in receipt of certain means-tested benefits, disability benefits and pensions.
In addition, in Northern Ireland, families with children are protected from the effects of the Benefit Cap and Social Sector Size Criteria (Bedroom Tax) through existing welfare mitigation schemes.
Further information on all support available can be found at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/benefits-and-money
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204925%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384736","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384736"}},{"id":"384735","reference":"AQW 4924/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-19","answerBy":"2024-02-09","answered":"2024-07-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the challenges currently facing the restaurant, pub and bar industry; and (ii) to detail what support schemes in place for these businesses.","answerText":"This question was asked in the previous mandate and to the previous Minister for the Economy.","answerHtml":"This question was asked in the previous mandate and to the previous Minister for the Economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204924%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384735","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384735"}},{"id":"384585","reference":"AQW 4870/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-18","answerBy":"2022-11-02","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the processes involved to ensure patients, being discharged from hospital, are not returning to homes which are under-heated and have inadequate provision of food.","answerText":"Unfortunately due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately due to there being no Minister in post after midnight on the 27th of October, my Department will be unable to answer the question.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204870%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384585"}},{"id":"384581","reference":"AQW 4866/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-18","answerBy":"2024-02-08","answered":"2024-09-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) when an applicant is informed of their Personal Independence Payment entitlement amount, is it described as an offer or entitlement; and (ii) for her assessment of whether describing it as an offer could be misleading to applicants.","answerText":"(i)The notification issued to applicants refers to an award of Personal Independence Payment and does not make reference to an offer. The notification confirms whether the applicant will receive the benefit, specifies the components and rate payable, the duration of the award and the total number of points scored.\n\n(ii)The information provided, therefore, is not misleading.","answerHtml":"(i)The notification issued to applicants refers to an award of Personal Independence Payment and does not make reference to an offer. The notification confirms whether the applicant will receive the benefit, specifies the components and rate payable, the duration of the award and the total number of points scored.
(ii)The information provided, therefore, is not misleading.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204866%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384581"}},{"id":"384580","reference":"AQW 4865/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-18","answerBy":"2022-11-02","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of the interim report of the Independent Review of Education; and (ii) whether the interim report contains recommendations that are actionable now.","answerText":"I welcome the Independent Review of Education panel’s Interim Report and am pleased that the panel has made progress. I am aware they have carried out extensive engagement with stakeholders and I look forward to considering the Final Report in due course.\n\nThis Interim Report sets out the work undertaken by the Panel and the key themes identified for further exploration and analysis. It does not include recommendations for action at this stage.","answerHtml":"I welcome the Independent Review of Education panel’s Interim Report and am pleased that the panel has made progress. I am aware they have carried out extensive engagement with stakeholders and I look forward to considering the Final Report in due course.
This Interim Report sets out the work undertaken by the Panel and the key themes identified for further exploration and analysis. It does not include recommendations for action at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204865%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384580"}},{"id":"384579","reference":"AQW 4864/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-18","answerBy":"2024-02-08","answered":"2024-09-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 3628-22/27, to detail what steps are being taken to bring the 16 Actionable voids in East Londonderry back into use.","answerText":"This issue is an operational matter for The Northern Ireland Housing Executive.\n\nI have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The previous response relates to 16 Actionable voids as at October 2022. At the end of April 2024, Causeway Area’s East Londonderry Actionable voids totalled 24.\n\nActionable voids are defined as properties which are vacant while in the process of being allocated/awaiting change of tenancy repairs. These may also include properties deemed to be difficult to let.\n\n20 of these properties are awaiting routine change of tenancy repairs (17 of these are currently offer accepted and awaiting sign up with the remaining 3 under offer). 2 properties have been extensively damaged and are undergoing significant change of tenancy repairs. The remaining 2 properties are subject to a legal dispute regarding the liability for reinstatement / demolition costs”.\n\nFor any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.","answerHtml":"This issue is an operational matter for The Northern Ireland Housing Executive.
I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The previous response relates to 16 Actionable voids as at October 2022. At the end of April 2024, Causeway Area’s East Londonderry Actionable voids totalled 24.
Actionable voids are defined as properties which are vacant while in the process of being allocated/awaiting change of tenancy repairs. These may also include properties deemed to be difficult to let.
20 of these properties are awaiting routine change of tenancy repairs (17 of these are currently offer accepted and awaiting sign up with the remaining 3 under offer). 2 properties have been extensively damaged and are undergoing significant change of tenancy repairs. The remaining 2 properties are subject to a legal dispute regarding the liability for reinstatement / demolition costs”.
For any future queries relating to operational matters, you may wish to contact the Housing Executive directly. Making direct contact with them will ensure that you receive the information in the shortest possible timeframe and make best use of public resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204864%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384579"}},{"id":"384391","reference":"AQW 4781/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-17","answerBy":"2022-11-01","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why, in the Northern Trust area, an educational psychologist’s statement of educational need and recommendation of support for a child awaiting an official autism assessment is not sufficient to enable the child’s family to access the Autism Advisory Service; and (ii) to outline the steps he is taking to expedite the delivery of autism assessments and corresponding support in this area.","answerText":"Part (i) of this question is an issue for the Department of Education as the Autism Advisory Service is an Education Authority service.\n\nIn response to part (ii) it should be acknowledged, that there is an excess of demand for the Paediatric ASD service in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust that exceeds capacity for assessment and diagnosis & in turn for providing specialist intervention following any diagnosis of ASD & intervention to those with a historical diagnosis.\n\nReferrals to the Paediatric ASD service in total (assessment and intervention) has increased by 55.9% between 2020/21 and 2021/22 (2,272 to 3,542 referrals) . These figures do not include the telephone consultation service, which receives on average 170 enquiries per month.\n\nIn the Northern Health and Social Care Trust a recovery plan has been initiated to attempt to address the backlog in referrals for autism assessment.\n\nActions within this plan include:\n\nContinuing to offer the Telephone Consultation Service - This service was established during Covid to support all families known to the Paediatric ASD service (those awaiting ASD assessment and those with ASD) to provide advice to manage immediate needs impacting on daily life, to share resources and signpost to appropriate supports. Continuing offering overtime clinics for diagnostic assessment\n\nTo apply diagnostic referral criteria to allow appropriate triage into correct assessment care pathway\n\nTo design a streamlined person centred care pathway for Looked After Children who require ASD assessment and to provide intervention & support to those with ASD/ those awaiting assessment\n\nFurther extend a pilot joint CAMHS/ ASD assessment model to all trust areas which provides a streamlined person-centred process for accessing ASD assessment for young people with significant mental health difficulties that require on-going input / support from Specialist CAMHS\n\nWorking in partnership with multi-disciplinary teams (MDT) supporting GP surgeries to streamline GP referrals where MDT will assist in the recording of development histories as part of a child/young person’s referral to the ASD diagnostic service (increase capacity within ASD service)\n\nFurther developing online intervention supports and webinars to release staff for further diagnostic work","answerHtml":"Part (i) of this question is an issue for the Department of Education as the Autism Advisory Service is an Education Authority service.
In response to part (ii) it should be acknowledged, that there is an excess of demand for the Paediatric ASD service in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust that exceeds capacity for assessment and diagnosis & in turn for providing specialist intervention following any diagnosis of ASD & intervention to those with a historical diagnosis.
Referrals to the Paediatric ASD service in total (assessment and intervention) has increased by 55.9% between 2020/21 and 2021/22 (2,272 to 3,542 referrals) . These figures do not include the telephone consultation service, which receives on average 170 enquiries per month.
In the Northern Health and Social Care Trust a recovery plan has been initiated to attempt to address the backlog in referrals for autism assessment.
Actions within this plan include:
Continuing to offer the Telephone Consultation Service - This service was established during Covid to support all families known to the Paediatric ASD service (those awaiting ASD assessment and those with ASD) to provide advice to manage immediate needs impacting on daily life, to share resources and signpost to appropriate supports. Continuing offering overtime clinics for diagnostic assessment
To apply diagnostic referral criteria to allow appropriate triage into correct assessment care pathway
To design a streamlined person centred care pathway for Looked After Children who require ASD assessment and to provide intervention & support to those with ASD/ those awaiting assessment
Further extend a pilot joint CAMHS/ ASD assessment model to all trust areas which provides a streamlined person-centred process for accessing ASD assessment for young people with significant mental health difficulties that require on-going input / support from Specialist CAMHS
Working in partnership with multi-disciplinary teams (MDT) supporting GP surgeries to streamline GP referrals where MDT will assist in the recording of development histories as part of a child/young person’s referral to the ASD diagnostic service (increase capacity within ASD service)
Further developing online intervention supports and webinars to release staff for further diagnostic work
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204781%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384391"}},{"id":"384390","reference":"AQW 4780/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-17","answerBy":"2022-11-01","answered":"2022-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the future of the Cross-Border Healthcare scheme.","answerText":"The scheme you are referring to is the Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (RoIRS) which has now closed.\n\nIn my written assembly statement on 20 June 2022, regarding the reform of stroke services and the recovery of elective orthopaedic services in Northern Ireland, I announced my decision to extend the Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (ROIRS) by allocating a further £5m, to continue it beyond the planned 30 June 2022 deadline, until the £5m of new funding had been committed.\n\nNew applications were accepted from 1 July 2022 and the scheme closed to new applications at 5pm on Wednesday 21 September as the additional £5m funding had been committed.\n\nI am very conscious of pressing demands for extra funding across many areas of health and social care. As Minister, I have continued to do the best I can to deliver for the public with the resources I have available. Amid ongoing budget uncertainty, I am on record as warning that funding pressures in health may be significant by the second half of 2022/23. The financial situation will undoubtedly be constrained whatever the final budget settlement. However, because of these pressures, I regret that it has not been possible to assign funding to further extend the RoIRS.","answerHtml":"The scheme you are referring to is the Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (RoIRS) which has now closed.
In my written assembly statement on 20 June 2022, regarding the reform of stroke services and the recovery of elective orthopaedic services in Northern Ireland, I announced my decision to extend the Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme (ROIRS) by allocating a further £5m, to continue it beyond the planned 30 June 2022 deadline, until the £5m of new funding had been committed.
New applications were accepted from 1 July 2022 and the scheme closed to new applications at 5pm on Wednesday 21 September as the additional £5m funding had been committed.
I am very conscious of pressing demands for extra funding across many areas of health and social care. As Minister, I have continued to do the best I can to deliver for the public with the resources I have available. Amid ongoing budget uncertainty, I am on record as warning that funding pressures in health may be significant by the second half of 2022/23. The financial situation will undoubtedly be constrained whatever the final budget settlement. However, because of these pressures, I regret that it has not been possible to assign funding to further extend the RoIRS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204780%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384390"}},{"id":"384389","reference":"AQW 4779/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-17","answerBy":"2022-11-01","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of (i) the increase in the number of sexual offences committed in the past five years; and (ii) the length of time taken by the justice system to clear sexual offences.","answerText":"I am conscious that there has been an almost 69% increase in the number of convictions for sexual offences in the courts over the last five years which, although disturbing, is indicative of the success of the work of the PSNI, the Public Prosecution Service and the Courts in bringing perpetrators to justice.\n\nWhile PSNI advise that there are no clear trends, in respect of locations, offenders or patterns in reporting, which would indicate the reasons for an increase in recorded crimes, it is, of course, a matter of concern for me and not something about which I am complacent. PSNI statistics are attached at Annex A and are available on the PSNI website.\n\nI recently introduced a number of new sexual offences in the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. While there is already a robust legislative framework of sexual offences to deal with a wide range of sexual offending, where it is clear there is a gap in the law, I take steps to address that gap.\n\nI have also introduced a number of measures to increase victims’ confidence to report sexual offences, knowing that they will be supported and protected through the criminal justice system. Measures include a new advocacy support service, the establishment of remote evidence centres; work to provide trauma informed training to justice professionals and; the provision of free legal advice to adult complainants.\n\nTackling delay is one of the biggest challenges facing the criminal justice system. My Department is working with key justice partners to take forward a number of initiatives to help speed up the justice system.\n\nOn 17 October, I introduced the first phase of Committal Reform provided for in the Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Act (NI) 2022. These changes will help support victims and witnesses in Crown Court cases by ensuring that they cannot be called to provide oral evidence as part of committal proceedings in the magistrates’ court in advance of trial.\n\nReducing the time it takes to complete criminal cases is a complex issue and reforms take time to embed and for their impact to be seen. Like many other areas of public service, COVID has had a significant impact on efforts to speed up the justice system, resulting in significant backlogs, which will take time to clear.\n\nAnnex A\n\nStatistics\n\nInformation on the number of sexual offences reported to police are included in recorded crime statistics published by the Police Service of Northern Ireland. Figures for sexual offences recorded by police in the years 2017/18 – 2021/22 have been provided in the following table.\n\nPolice recorded crime - sexual offences, 2017/18 to 2021/22\n\nYear\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\nSexual offences\t3,430\t3,535\t3,551\t3,328\t4,059\n\nNote:\n\nStatistics on police recorded crime in Northern Ireland are collated and produced by statisticians seconded to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA). They are recorded in compliance with the Home Office Counting Rules and further details of recording practices are available in the User Guide to Police Recorded Crime Statistics.\n\nFigures relating to the numbers of prosecutions and convictions at courts for cases involving sexual offences have been provided in the following table.\n\nProsecutions and convictions at courts for sexual offences, 2017 - 2021\n\n2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\nProsecutions\t350\t356\t396\t260\t468\nConvictions\t172\t194\t234\t148\t290\n\nNote:\n\n1. Figures relate to initial disposal at courts. Appeals are not included.\n\n2. Figures relate to cases where there was a prosecution or conviction for at least one sexual offence.\n\n3. Figures relate to cases dealt with at Crown Court and at magistrates' courts.\n\nFigures relating to the average time taken for sexual offence cases completed at courts are published by the Department of Justice in an annual bulletin on case processing time for criminal cases dealt with at courts. Figures for the average time taken in each of the last five years are listed in the following table.\n\nTime taken for sexual offence cases from date incident reported to disposal at courts, 2017/18 - 2020/21\n\n2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\nMedian number of days taken\t622\t667\t698\t581\t742\n\nNote:\n\n1. Figures relate to the number of calendar days between the listed dates for each table. Court recess dates are not taken into account.\n\n2. Figures relate to cases disposed at court during the 12 months to the end of the time period specified.\n\n3. Figures relate to cases brought on behalf of the PSNI, Harbour and Airport police in Northern Ireland that resulted in a court disposal. Appeals are not included.\n\n4. Figures up to end 2017/18 do not include cases where the case was dismissed but a caution was administered. Figures for 2018/19 onwards do include such cases in respect of those concluded at Crown Court.\n\nFixed penalty registrations, penalty notices for disorder or cases resulting from a breach of a court order were also excluded.\n\n5. A review of offences within offence categories was conducted in early 2020. Figures for 2020/21 onwards are reported in line with the revised categorisation.\n\n6. Figures relate to cases dealt with at Crown Court and at magistrates' courts.\n\n7. The form of average presented in the median.\n\n8. Figures relate to cases where the main offence at disposal was a sexual offence.","answerHtml":"I am conscious that there has been an almost 69% increase in the number of convictions for sexual offences in the courts over the last five years which, although disturbing, is indicative of the success of the work of the PSNI, the Public Prosecution Service and the Courts in bringing perpetrators to justice.
While PSNI advise that there are no clear trends, in respect of locations, offenders or patterns in reporting, which would indicate the reasons for an increase in recorded crimes, it is, of course, a matter of concern for me and not something about which I am complacent. PSNI statistics are attached at Annex A and are available on the PSNI website.
I recently introduced a number of new sexual offences in the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. While there is already a robust legislative framework of sexual offences to deal with a wide range of sexual offending, where it is clear there is a gap in the law, I take steps to address that gap.
I have also introduced a number of measures to increase victims’ confidence to report sexual offences, knowing that they will be supported and protected through the criminal justice system. Measures include a new advocacy support service, the establishment of remote evidence centres; work to provide trauma informed training to justice professionals and; the provision of free legal advice to adult complainants.
Tackling delay is one of the biggest challenges facing the criminal justice system. My Department is working with key justice partners to take forward a number of initiatives to help speed up the justice system.
On 17 October, I introduced the first phase of Committal Reform provided for in the Criminal Justice (Committal Reform) Act (NI) 2022. These changes will help support victims and witnesses in Crown Court cases by ensuring that they cannot be called to provide oral evidence as part of committal proceedings in the magistrates’ court in advance of trial.
Reducing the time it takes to complete criminal cases is a complex issue and reforms take time to embed and for their impact to be seen. Like many other areas of public service, COVID has had a significant impact on efforts to speed up the justice system, resulting in significant backlogs, which will take time to clear.
Annex A
Statistics
Information on the number of sexual offences reported to police are included in recorded crime statistics published by the Police Service of Northern Ireland. Figures for sexual offences recorded by police in the years 2017/18 – 2021/22 have been provided in the following table.
Police recorded crime - sexual offences, 2017/18 to 2021/22
| Year | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Sexual offences | 3,430 | 3,535 | 3,551 | 3,328 | 4,059 |
Note:
Statistics on police recorded crime in Northern Ireland are collated and produced by statisticians seconded to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) from the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA). They are recorded in compliance with the Home Office Counting Rules and further details of recording practices are available in the User Guide to Police Recorded Crime Statistics.
Figures relating to the numbers of prosecutions and convictions at courts for cases involving sexual offences have been provided in the following table.
Prosecutions and convictions at courts for sexual offences, 2017 - 2021
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Prosecutions | 350 | 356 | 396 | 260 | 468 |
| Convictions | 172 | 194 | 234 | 148 | 290 |
Note:
1. Figures relate to initial disposal at courts. Appeals are not included.
2. Figures relate to cases where there was a prosecution or conviction for at least one sexual offence.
3. Figures relate to cases dealt with at Crown Court and at magistrates' courts.
Figures relating to the average time taken for sexual offence cases completed at courts are published by the Department of Justice in an annual bulletin on case processing time for criminal cases dealt with at courts. Figures for the average time taken in each of the last five years are listed in the following table.
Time taken for sexual offence cases from date incident reported to disposal at courts, 2017/18 - 2020/21
| 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | |
| Median number of days taken | 622 | 667 | 698 | 581 | 742 |
Note:
1. Figures relate to the number of calendar days between the listed dates for each table. Court recess dates are not taken into account.
2. Figures relate to cases disposed at court during the 12 months to the end of the time period specified.
3. Figures relate to cases brought on behalf of the PSNI, Harbour and Airport police in Northern Ireland that resulted in a court disposal. Appeals are not included.
4. Figures up to end 2017/18 do not include cases where the case was dismissed but a caution was administered. Figures for 2018/19 onwards do include such cases in respect of those concluded at Crown Court.
Fixed penalty registrations, penalty notices for disorder or cases resulting from a breach of a court order were also excluded.
5. A review of offences within offence categories was conducted in early 2020. Figures for 2020/21 onwards are reported in line with the revised categorisation.
6. Figures relate to cases dealt with at Crown Court and at magistrates' courts.
7. The form of average presented in the median.
8. Figures relate to cases where the main offence at disposal was a sexual offence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204779%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384389","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384389"}},{"id":"384388","reference":"AQW 4778/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-17","answerBy":"2022-11-01","answered":"2022-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail what work that is being undertaken to prepare for the potential scrapping of EU environmental laws, including the creation of similar legislation for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Following EU Exit my Department delivered a significant programme of legislation to ensure the preservation of environmental protections and standards in domestic legislation.\n\nThe UK Government has recently introduced the Retained EU Law (REUL) (Revocation and Reform) Bill which proposes that retained EU Law is repealed, amended or extended from 31 December 2023. My officials are considering the potential impact of the REUL Bill along with colleagues across the NICS and in other UK jurisdictions.\n\nIt is my intention going forward that Northern Ireland continues to have a clear statutory basis for protecting the environment as has been the case throughout the changes resulting from the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.","answerHtml":"Following EU Exit my Department delivered a significant programme of legislation to ensure the preservation of environmental protections and standards in domestic legislation.
The UK Government has recently introduced the Retained EU Law (REUL) (Revocation and Reform) Bill which proposes that retained EU Law is repealed, amended or extended from 31 December 2023. My officials are considering the potential impact of the REUL Bill along with colleagues across the NICS and in other UK jurisdictions.
It is my intention going forward that Northern Ireland continues to have a clear statutory basis for protecting the environment as has been the case throughout the changes resulting from the UK’s withdrawal from the EU.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204778%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384388"}},{"id":"384291","reference":"AQW 4726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-14","answerBy":"2022-10-31","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the increase in the number of students dropping out of university courses, in particular his assessment of whether the cost of living crisis may have contributed to this trend.","answerText":"Recent figures published by the Student Loans Company (SLC) show that student withdrawal notifications for academic year 2021/22 are higher than the previous 2 academic years. This recent increase in withdrawals applies across the UK and not just in Northern Ireland.\n\nHowever, the SLC report also indicates that while Northern Ireland student withdrawal notifications for 2021/22 are higher when compared with 2019/20 and 2020/21, they are broadly in line with the (pre-pandemic) figure for 2018/19.\n\nThe number of Northern Ireland and other UK domiciled students dropping out of higher education courses during the pandemic was unusually low. The Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) suggests there are likely to be multi-faceted reasons underpinning this decrease, rather than a single, direct explanation for the drop. However, during periods of economic uncertainty, there is often a trend for increased higher education enrolments. The most recent increase is therefore likely to be a ‘normalising’ of the withdrawal rates following the pandemic.","answerHtml":"Recent figures published by the Student Loans Company (SLC) show that student withdrawal notifications for academic year 2021/22 are higher than the previous 2 academic years. This recent increase in withdrawals applies across the UK and not just in Northern Ireland.
However, the SLC report also indicates that while Northern Ireland student withdrawal notifications for 2021/22 are higher when compared with 2019/20 and 2020/21, they are broadly in line with the (pre-pandemic) figure for 2018/19.
The number of Northern Ireland and other UK domiciled students dropping out of higher education courses during the pandemic was unusually low. The Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) suggests there are likely to be multi-faceted reasons underpinning this decrease, rather than a single, direct explanation for the drop. However, during periods of economic uncertainty, there is often a trend for increased higher education enrolments. The most recent increase is therefore likely to be a ‘normalising’ of the withdrawal rates following the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384291"}},{"id":"384290","reference":"AQW 4725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-14","answerBy":"2022-10-31","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on plans to introduce consistent and mandatory relationship and sex education in schools.","answerText":"Teaching about Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is mandatory for all pupils of compulsory school age and it is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to ensure that a comprehensive programme is delivered which meets the needs of its pupils and aligns with its RSE policy.\n\nThe curriculum gives schools flexibility to adapt what they teach and enables them to use a variety of approaches and curricular resources that reflect, and are responsive to, the learning needs of their pupils. This ensures that young people are both safe and well-informed about all of the issues they face in modern society.\n\nThere is no evidence to suggest that detailed lists of compulsory subject content within a curriculum guarantees that a subject will be well or appropriately taught. Furthermore, in a subject such as RSE, prescribed content may rapidly become out of date when new issues emerge.\n\nA wide range of resources have been developed and are available on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s RSE Hub, which will include the future publication of a RSE Progression Framework. This approach is designed to improve confidence and capacity in the teaching of RSE.","answerHtml":"Teaching about Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is mandatory for all pupils of compulsory school age and it is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to ensure that a comprehensive programme is delivered which meets the needs of its pupils and aligns with its RSE policy.
The curriculum gives schools flexibility to adapt what they teach and enables them to use a variety of approaches and curricular resources that reflect, and are responsive to, the learning needs of their pupils. This ensures that young people are both safe and well-informed about all of the issues they face in modern society.
There is no evidence to suggest that detailed lists of compulsory subject content within a curriculum guarantees that a subject will be well or appropriately taught. Furthermore, in a subject such as RSE, prescribed content may rapidly become out of date when new issues emerge.
A wide range of resources have been developed and are available on the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment’s RSE Hub, which will include the future publication of a RSE Progression Framework. This approach is designed to improve confidence and capacity in the teaching of RSE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384290"}},{"id":"384289","reference":"AQW 4724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-14","answerBy":"2024-02-06","answered":"2024-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) what support exists for schools that are unable to afford to keep their classrooms at a temperature suitable for teaching children; and (ii) what direction has been given to schools for which this is the case.","answerText":"(i) In the 2022-23 financial year, an additional £12.7m was allocated to schools to mitigate the impact of increased energy costs. In addition, from the 1 October 2022 to March 2023 schools benefitted from the Energy Bill Support Scheme, which protected them from excessively high energy bills over the winter period.\n\nFor the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 schools will again benefit from a revised Energy Bill Discount Scheme, which provides a discount on gas and electricity unit prices subject to a capped discount. Schools do not need to do anything to obtain this discount, as it will be applied automatically to energy bills.\n\nSince August 2020, the EA has proactively sought to mitigate the impact of increasing utility and energy costs by engaging an independent energy advisor to provide advice on purchasing energy, tariff changes and hedging purchase prices for electricity and gas on behalf of our schools.\n\nIn the most recent update from the EA, it has confirmed that following a review of 2023-24 energy costs by the energy advisor, energy costs are forecast to reduce significantly compared to the prior year.\n\n(ii) Any school which is facing financial difficulty is encouraged to contact the EA, as funding authority for grant aided schools, in the first instance.","answerHtml":"(i) In the 2022-23 financial year, an additional £12.7m was allocated to schools to mitigate the impact of increased energy costs. In addition, from the 1 October 2022 to March 2023 schools benefitted from the Energy Bill Support Scheme, which protected them from excessively high energy bills over the winter period.
For the period 1 April 2023 to 31 March 2024 schools will again benefit from a revised Energy Bill Discount Scheme, which provides a discount on gas and electricity unit prices subject to a capped discount. Schools do not need to do anything to obtain this discount, as it will be applied automatically to energy bills.
Since August 2020, the EA has proactively sought to mitigate the impact of increasing utility and energy costs by engaging an independent energy advisor to provide advice on purchasing energy, tariff changes and hedging purchase prices for electricity and gas on behalf of our schools.
In the most recent update from the EA, it has confirmed that following a review of 2023-24 energy costs by the energy advisor, energy costs are forecast to reduce significantly compared to the prior year.
(ii) Any school which is facing financial difficulty is encouraged to contact the EA, as funding authority for grant aided schools, in the first instance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384289"}},{"id":"384288","reference":"AQW 4723/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-14","answerBy":"2022-10-19","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the Strategic Investment Board’s report into the need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland, including its anticipated publication date.","answerText":"There is an increasing acceptance that Northern Ireland requires a more assured supply of veterinarians in the long term, than is available from historical sources. There are a number of options for achieving this which merit further exploration, and last year I commissioned, from the Strategic Investment Board (SIB), a Baseline Report and Situational Analysis of Veterinary Services in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe report completed this year by the SIB is part of the overall analysis as to whether a veterinary school is needed for Northern Ireland and focused on just one element, the need for veterinary personnel here.\n\nI am keen that the report is published alongside other relevant evidence, and work is ongoing between my Department and representatives from Queens University, Ulster University and the Department for the Economy in that regard. I will confirm the timescale for publication as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"There is an increasing acceptance that Northern Ireland requires a more assured supply of veterinarians in the long term, than is available from historical sources. There are a number of options for achieving this which merit further exploration, and last year I commissioned, from the Strategic Investment Board (SIB), a Baseline Report and Situational Analysis of Veterinary Services in Northern Ireland.
The report completed this year by the SIB is part of the overall analysis as to whether a veterinary school is needed for Northern Ireland and focused on just one element, the need for veterinary personnel here.
I am keen that the report is published alongside other relevant evidence, and work is ongoing between my Department and representatives from Queens University, Ulster University and the Department for the Economy in that regard. I will confirm the timescale for publication as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204723%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384288","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384288"}},{"id":"384267","reference":"AQW 4702/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-14","answerBy":"2024-02-06","answered":"2024-07-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what plans he has to bring a scheme similar to Project Girona in Coleraine to other areas.","answerText":"This question was asked in the previous mandate and to the previous Minister for the Economy.","answerHtml":"This question was asked in the previous mandate and to the previous Minister for the Economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204702%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384267"}},{"id":"384117","reference":"AQW 4604/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2024-02-05","answered":"2024-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the level of co-operation that exists between her Department and the Home Office in the sourcing and securing of temporary accommodation for both local homeless people and those arriving via refugee programmes.","answerText":"I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The Department for Communities (DfC) and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) are key partners in the delivery in Northern Ireland of the Syrian Vulnerable Person Relocation Scheme, the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy and the Afghan Citizens Relocation Scheme. Under these schemes temporary accommodation is directly sourced for refugees in advance of arrival in Northern Ireland.\n\nDfC and NIHE are actively involved in the delivery of support for Ukrainian nationals that have arrived in Northern Ireland under the various visa schemes provided by the UK government in response to the Russian invasion. The NIHE directly deliver a response to breakdowns in sponsorship arrangements under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme that could involve sourcing new sponsorship hosts or providing assistance under statutory homelessness including providing temporary accommodation.\n\nIn Northern Ireland the Executive Office has responsibility for refugee and asylum integration and has established structures at strategic and operational levels through which DfC and NIHE engage on a range of issues, including the provision of temporary accommodation. The Housing Executive also works with the Home Office and the Mears Group in relation to refugees moving on from the asylum process that require homelessness assistance and temporary accommodation.”","answerHtml":"I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The Department for Communities (DfC) and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) are key partners in the delivery in Northern Ireland of the Syrian Vulnerable Person Relocation Scheme, the Afghan Relocation and Assistance Policy and the Afghan Citizens Relocation Scheme. Under these schemes temporary accommodation is directly sourced for refugees in advance of arrival in Northern Ireland.
DfC and NIHE are actively involved in the delivery of support for Ukrainian nationals that have arrived in Northern Ireland under the various visa schemes provided by the UK government in response to the Russian invasion. The NIHE directly deliver a response to breakdowns in sponsorship arrangements under the Homes for Ukraine Scheme that could involve sourcing new sponsorship hosts or providing assistance under statutory homelessness including providing temporary accommodation.
In Northern Ireland the Executive Office has responsibility for refugee and asylum integration and has established structures at strategic and operational levels through which DfC and NIHE engage on a range of issues, including the provision of temporary accommodation. The Housing Executive also works with the Home Office and the Mears Group in relation to refugees moving on from the asylum process that require homelessness assistance and temporary accommodation.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204604%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384117"}},{"id":"384116","reference":"AQW 4603/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2022-10-28","answered":"2022-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what efforts are being made to connect houses added retrospectively to Project Stratum at the same time as nearby houses that were included in the initial plan.","answerText":"As you aware, Project Stratum was developed to improve connectivity for premises unable to access broadband services of 30Mbps or greater, primarily across rural areas of Northern Ireland. The project was allocated £165m of public funding, £150m of which was secured under the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the DUP and the Conservatives. Fibrus Networks was appointed as the contractor in November 2020 to deliver gigabit-capable broadband to 76,000 premises in rural areas across Northern Ireland.\n\nIn January 2022, my Department secured additional capital funding of £32 million to bring a further 8,500 premises into Project Stratum. Fibrus Networks is now delivering gigabit-capable broadband to 85,000 premises throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nWherever possible Fibrus Network aim to roll out the additionally contracted premises alongside the originally contracted premises. However, as would be expected, planning and deployment to the originally contracted 76,000 premises was well progressed when the additional 8,500 premises were added to the project and several areas had been delivered, with many more underway and on track for completion by 31 March 2024. As a result, it was necessary for Fibrus Networks to add a further four delivery quarters to the project to allow for additional planning, resources, network build and time to deliver. All 85,000 premises will have access to gigabit capable full fibre broadband by 31 March 2025. This approach has allowed Project Stratum to continue to proceed at pace, ensuring the best value for money is delivered and progress with the deployment is maintained.\n\nIf not already done so, citizens should register their interest at https://hyperfastni.com/contact, and Fibrus Networks will keep them informed of progress.","answerHtml":"As you aware, Project Stratum was developed to improve connectivity for premises unable to access broadband services of 30Mbps or greater, primarily across rural areas of Northern Ireland. The project was allocated £165m of public funding, £150m of which was secured under the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the DUP and the Conservatives. Fibrus Networks was appointed as the contractor in November 2020 to deliver gigabit-capable broadband to 76,000 premises in rural areas across Northern Ireland.
In January 2022, my Department secured additional capital funding of £32 million to bring a further 8,500 premises into Project Stratum. Fibrus Networks is now delivering gigabit-capable broadband to 85,000 premises throughout Northern Ireland.
Wherever possible Fibrus Network aim to roll out the additionally contracted premises alongside the originally contracted premises. However, as would be expected, planning and deployment to the originally contracted 76,000 premises was well progressed when the additional 8,500 premises were added to the project and several areas had been delivered, with many more underway and on track for completion by 31 March 2024. As a result, it was necessary for Fibrus Networks to add a further four delivery quarters to the project to allow for additional planning, resources, network build and time to deliver. All 85,000 premises will have access to gigabit capable full fibre broadband by 31 March 2025. This approach has allowed Project Stratum to continue to proceed at pace, ensuring the best value for money is delivered and progress with the deployment is maintained.
If not already done so, citizens should register their interest at https://hyperfastni.com/contact, and Fibrus Networks will keep them informed of progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204603%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384116"}},{"id":"384115","reference":"AQW 4602/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2022-10-28","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of social housing units that exist in the (a) Macosquin; and (b) Castlerock areas; and (ii) what planned social housing projects are being developed for these areas.","answerText":"The table below details the number of Housing Executive properties in the Macosquin and Castlerock Common Landlord Areas (CLAs) as of the 18th October 2022. Please note that the Housing Executive do not hold corresponding information for housing association stock\n\nCLA\tProperty Count\nMacosquin\t77\nCastlerock\t42\n\nThe Housing Executive is currently in the process of nominating a housing association to take forward a social housing development of five homes on Housing Executive-owned land at Ramsey Park, Macosquin. Subject to acceptance of the nomination by a housing association, this proposal is anticipated to start on-site as part of the 2023/24 Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).\n\nThe Housing Executive has recently responded to a planning application for 14 homes at Freehall Road, where housing need was confirmed along with the suitability of the proposed housing mix to meet the needs of households on the waiting list. It is anticipated this will be brought forward by a housing association and added to the SHDP in due course.","answerHtml":"The table below details the number of Housing Executive properties in the Macosquin and Castlerock Common Landlord Areas (CLAs) as of the 18th October 2022. Please note that the Housing Executive do not hold corresponding information for housing association stock
| CLA | Property Count |
| Macosquin | 77 |
| Castlerock | 42 |
The Housing Executive is currently in the process of nominating a housing association to take forward a social housing development of five homes on Housing Executive-owned land at Ramsey Park, Macosquin. Subject to acceptance of the nomination by a housing association, this proposal is anticipated to start on-site as part of the 2023/24 Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).
The Housing Executive has recently responded to a planning application for 14 homes at Freehall Road, where housing need was confirmed along with the suitability of the proposed housing mix to meet the needs of households on the waiting list. It is anticipated this will be brought forward by a housing association and added to the SHDP in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204602%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384115"}},{"id":"384114","reference":"AQW 4601/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-13","answerBy":"2022-10-28","answered":"2022-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 3060/22-27, whether he plans to bring forward legislation to protect the rights of working women experiencing symptoms of menopause or fertility treatment which may impact their ability to work.","answerText":"In order to meet its statutory obligations, the immediate focus and priority for my Department, on employment related entitlements, is the progression of miscarriage leave and pay and domestic abuse safe leave.\n\nI have previously said that I believe an Employment Bill is needed to ensure our employment law framework continues to meet the needs of workers and businesses.\n\nWhilst there are no plans at present to legislate beyond the existing legal and equality obligations currently in effect, I encourage all employers to treat their workers fairly and sympathetically.\n\nAny proposals for inclusion in a future Employment Bill will be subject to the views of the Executive, stakeholder engagement, public consultation and the relevant Assembly processes.","answerHtml":"In order to meet its statutory obligations, the immediate focus and priority for my Department, on employment related entitlements, is the progression of miscarriage leave and pay and domestic abuse safe leave.
I have previously said that I believe an Employment Bill is needed to ensure our employment law framework continues to meet the needs of workers and businesses.
Whilst there are no plans at present to legislate beyond the existing legal and equality obligations currently in effect, I encourage all employers to treat their workers fairly and sympathetically.
Any proposals for inclusion in a future Employment Bill will be subject to the views of the Executive, stakeholder engagement, public consultation and the relevant Assembly processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204601%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=384114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=384114"}},{"id":"383955","reference":"AQW 4510/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-12","answerBy":"2022-10-27","answered":"2024-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what advice has been given to schools’ catering departments regarding making school dinners affordable but nutritious in the face of rising food and energy costs.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the provision of school meals in grant-aided nursery, primary, post-primary and special schools with the exception of voluntary grammar or grant-maintained integrated schools where those schools are responsible for this provision. The price of a school meal in the schools for which the EA is responsible is determined by the EA. In determining this price, the EA is conscious of the potential impact that any rise in price would have on families paying for school meals. As a result, the EA has not raised the price of a school meal since 2017. The EA continues to keep this price under review.\n\nNutritional standards apply to school lunches as set by the Department which include the recommended portion sizes and nutritional requirements within each food category. This ensures that all pupils can access a healthy and nutritious school lunch that is suitable as their main meal of the day.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the provision of school meals in grant-aided nursery, primary, post-primary and special schools with the exception of voluntary grammar or grant-maintained integrated schools where those schools are responsible for this provision. The price of a school meal in the schools for which the EA is responsible is determined by the EA. In determining this price, the EA is conscious of the potential impact that any rise in price would have on families paying for school meals. As a result, the EA has not raised the price of a school meal since 2017. The EA continues to keep this price under review.
Nutritional standards apply to school lunches as set by the Department which include the recommended portion sizes and nutritional requirements within each food category. This ensures that all pupils can access a healthy and nutritious school lunch that is suitable as their main meal of the day.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204510%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383955"}},{"id":"383954","reference":"AQW 4509/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-12","answerBy":"2022-10-27","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail the number of school pupils in receipt of free school meals in each of the last five years; (ii) what this number represents as a percentage of all school pupils; and (iii) for her assessment of any change in these figures.","answerText":"The table below shows the (i) number and (ii) percentage of pupils entitled to free school meals attending all schools in Northern Ireland. The figures show a broadly consistent pattern over the five year period despite the disruption to education caused by the pandemic during this time.\n\nThe number and percentage of pupil entitled to free school meals 2017/18 to 2021/22\n\nAcademic Year\t(i) Number of pupils\t(ii) Percentage of pupils\n2021/22\t98,804\t28.5%\n2020/21\t97,592\t28.3%\n2019/20\t96,697\t28.4%\n2018/19\t99,165\t29.3%\n2017/18\t100,275\t29.9%\n\nSource: Annual School Census","answerHtml":"The table below shows the (i) number and (ii) percentage of pupils entitled to free school meals attending all schools in Northern Ireland. The figures show a broadly consistent pattern over the five year period despite the disruption to education caused by the pandemic during this time.
The number and percentage of pupil entitled to free school meals 2017/18 to 2021/22
| Academic Year | (i) Number of pupils | (ii) Percentage of pupils |
| 2021/22 | 98,804 | 28.5% |
| 2020/21 | 97,592 | 28.3% |
| 2019/20 | 96,697 | 28.4% |
| 2018/19 | 99,165 | 29.3% |
| 2017/18 | 100,275 | 29.9% |
Source: Annual School Census
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204509%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383954","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383954"}},{"id":"383953","reference":"AQW 4508/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-12","answerBy":"2022-10-27","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 3630/22-27, (i) whether these timeframes align with her expectations and targets; (ii) to outline any excess costs associated when cases go beyond a reasonable timeframe; and (iii) to detail what plans she has to review the process with a view to expediting these kind of cases.","answerText":"(i) The Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service publish a range of targets and performance information in their Annual Report and Accounts. In relation to the Kings Bench cases, the figures for 2021-22 show that the target of listing 98% of Clinical Negligence claims for review before the Master within 13 months of receipt of the writ was met, while 97% of claims for Personal Injury were listed for review within three months of setting down compared to the target of 98%. There are no separate targets for Personal Injury or Clinical Negligence cases in the County Court. The target of 95% Civil bills to be allocated a hearing date within 15 weeks of receipt of the certificate of readiness was not met during 2021/22 (85%).\n\n(ii) The cost of individual court cases is not recorded. In civil matters the onus is on the parties involved to prepare the case and provide the Court with the relevant information. The costs are largely dependent on the complexity of the case and factors such as the length of time involved in case preparation, the number of legal representatives and other experts involved, and on the number and length of court hearings. Delays in providing the relevant information or the failure to progress the case by the plaintiff or respondent may not necessarily lead to additional court hearings or impact on the costs.\n\n(iii) The Judiciary have published a series of Pre-Action Protocols and Practice Directions in relation to setting out best practice and procedures required to meet the courts expectations and ensure that litigation is dealt with expeditiously and fairly. The Civil & Family Justice Review made a number of recommendations to streamline processes and expedite cases, and a Shadow Civil Justice Council has been established to oversee the co-ordination of a draft plan for their implementation. The Council are currently working on a range of proposals including a Personal Injury and Damage Only Road Traffic Accident Pre-Action Protocol.\n\nIn relation to claims for criminal injuries compensation, as I indicated in the response to AQW 3630/22-27, each claim is unique and often complex and so setting targets for the assessment of claims is not straightforward. I am content, however, that officials are focused on processing compensation claims as expeditiously as possible, bearing in mind the dependence on information from external sources and more recently the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. While there are no specific excess costs related to the timeframe for completing the assessment of cases, the scope for making any changes to administrative arrangements for processing of claims is always kept under review.","answerHtml":"(i) The Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Service publish a range of targets and performance information in their Annual Report and Accounts. In relation to the Kings Bench cases, the figures for 2021-22 show that the target of listing 98% of Clinical Negligence claims for review before the Master within 13 months of receipt of the writ was met, while 97% of claims for Personal Injury were listed for review within three months of setting down compared to the target of 98%. There are no separate targets for Personal Injury or Clinical Negligence cases in the County Court. The target of 95% Civil bills to be allocated a hearing date within 15 weeks of receipt of the certificate of readiness was not met during 2021/22 (85%).
(ii) The cost of individual court cases is not recorded. In civil matters the onus is on the parties involved to prepare the case and provide the Court with the relevant information. The costs are largely dependent on the complexity of the case and factors such as the length of time involved in case preparation, the number of legal representatives and other experts involved, and on the number and length of court hearings. Delays in providing the relevant information or the failure to progress the case by the plaintiff or respondent may not necessarily lead to additional court hearings or impact on the costs.
(iii) The Judiciary have published a series of Pre-Action Protocols and Practice Directions in relation to setting out best practice and procedures required to meet the courts expectations and ensure that litigation is dealt with expeditiously and fairly. The Civil & Family Justice Review made a number of recommendations to streamline processes and expedite cases, and a Shadow Civil Justice Council has been established to oversee the co-ordination of a draft plan for their implementation. The Council are currently working on a range of proposals including a Personal Injury and Damage Only Road Traffic Accident Pre-Action Protocol.
In relation to claims for criminal injuries compensation, as I indicated in the response to AQW 3630/22-27, each claim is unique and often complex and so setting targets for the assessment of claims is not straightforward. I am content, however, that officials are focused on processing compensation claims as expeditiously as possible, bearing in mind the dependence on information from external sources and more recently the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. While there are no specific excess costs related to the timeframe for completing the assessment of cases, the scope for making any changes to administrative arrangements for processing of claims is always kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204508%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383953"}},{"id":"383952","reference":"AQW 4507/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-12","answerBy":"2022-10-27","answered":"2024-09-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the locations of the anticipated 1,400 new homes to be built by Clanmil Housing following recent investment; and (ii) the amount to be provided by her Department as part of this project.","answerText":"My Department already provides significant funding for social housing and this private financing will enable Clanmil, one of our leading providers of social housing, to build more social housing for those in most need across Northern Ireland.\n\nShould Clanmil bring forward any additional social housing schemes, they will be assessed by NIHE and/or my Department and appropriate level of Housing Association Grant (HAG) awarded.","answerHtml":"My Department already provides significant funding for social housing and this private financing will enable Clanmil, one of our leading providers of social housing, to build more social housing for those in most need across Northern Ireland.
Should Clanmil bring forward any additional social housing schemes, they will be assessed by NIHE and/or my Department and appropriate level of Housing Association Grant (HAG) awarded.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204507%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383952"}},{"id":"383951","reference":"AQW 4506/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-12","answerBy":"2022-10-27","answered":"2022-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether the School Holiday Food Grant will be available for children over the autumn mid-term and Christmas breaks; and (ii) to detail what steps have been taken to extend free school meals provision to all nursery and primary school pupils.","answerText":"I announced on 20 October that I have decided to extend the School Holiday Food Grant to cover the Halloween 2022, Christmas 2022 and February half term 2023 school holiday periods.\n\nThis will provide financial assistance to families whose children are entitled to free school meals with families receiving £13.50 per week for each entitled child.\n\nThe Department is continuing to progress a review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The review is considering a wide range of options that include the provision of a universal free school meal for some/all year groups as well as raising the current income thresholds that apply to the eligibility criteria for applicants in receipt of Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. It is planned that a public consultation will commence later this year.","answerHtml":"I announced on 20 October that I have decided to extend the School Holiday Food Grant to cover the Halloween 2022, Christmas 2022 and February half term 2023 school holiday periods.
This will provide financial assistance to families whose children are entitled to free school meals with families receiving £13.50 per week for each entitled child.
The Department is continuing to progress a review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The review is considering a wide range of options that include the provision of a universal free school meal for some/all year groups as well as raising the current income thresholds that apply to the eligibility criteria for applicants in receipt of Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. It is planned that a public consultation will commence later this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204506%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383951"}},{"id":"383719","reference":"AQW 4428/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-11","answerBy":"2022-10-26","answered":"2022-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has any plans to streamline the process for divorce in Northern Ireland, comparable with other regions of the UK.","answerText":"Responsibility for the legislation relating to divorce in Northern Ireland sits with the Minister of Finance.\n\nUnder the NI Courts and Tribunals Service (NICTS) modernisation plans, NICTS will undertake the development and delivery of a new core technology platform for courts and tribunals and a web portal for use by citizens and the legal profession. This will consist of the development of a range of new and enhanced online services, including divorce.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for the legislation relating to divorce in Northern Ireland sits with the Minister of Finance.
Under the NI Courts and Tribunals Service (NICTS) modernisation plans, NICTS will undertake the development and delivery of a new core technology platform for courts and tribunals and a web portal for use by citizens and the legal profession. This will consist of the development of a range of new and enhanced online services, including divorce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204428%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383719"}},{"id":"383718","reference":"AQW 4427/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-11","answerBy":"2022-10-26","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) whether he has considered the impact of family and relationships on mental health; and (ii) how public services provide support and take account of the family unit when providing therapy for mental health.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204427%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383718"}},{"id":"383717","reference":"AQW 4426/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-11","answerBy":"2022-10-26","answered":"2022-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has any plans to introduce no-fault divorce in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"As my term as a caretaker Minister ends on 28 October I do not plan to legislate to introduce no fault divorce here.","answerHtml":"As my term as a caretaker Minister ends on 28 October I do not plan to legislate to introduce no fault divorce here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204426%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383717"}},{"id":"383715","reference":"AQW 4424/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-11","answerBy":"2022-10-26","answered":"2022-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline how her Department considers (i) accommodation; (ii) relationships; and (iii) employment issues when supporting people to not reoffend.","answerText":"The point at which an individual leaves the care of the Prison Service can be a particularly difficult and testing time. My Department is focused on improving outcomes, reducing reoffending and making communities safer by ensuring people resettle successfully on leaving custody. I have met with the Ministers of Health and Communities to discuss how the housing, health and justice sectors can improve collaboration to tackle homelessness for those with complex lives.\n\nI am committed to working with others to ensure the accommodation needs of those being released from prison are appropriately addressed.\n\nAs part of current pre-release planning arrangements, support is provided by both prison staff and partner organisations to ensure that people in our care have accommodation in place on release. However I recognise that there is a need to improve the provision of sustainable accommodation and my officials are working with the Department for Communities, Department of Health and NI Housing Executive, to consider the potential expansion of the Housing First model.\n\nIn November 2019, the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) launched a new Strengthening Family Relations Strategy for 2019-2024. The aim of the strategy is to set out how NIPS, working in partnership through a multi-agency approach, will strengthen family relationships. Due to Covid progress was delayed however, work is now ongoing to deliver the actions emerging from the Strategy.\n\nI recognise that securing employment on release from prison can be one of the critical success factors in reducing a person’s likelihood of reoffending. My Department is taking forward a range of initiatives linked to enhance employability opportunities for people with convictions. Aside from the investment in learning and skills provision through Belfast Metropolitan and North West Regional Colleges, these include the introduction of Department for Communities work coaches into the prison setting; utilising social clauses and employment schemes to provide work experience and employment for those with convictions, and supporting the Business In The Community Ban the Box campaign, which aims to remove the criminal record checkbox from job applications at the initial stage of applying for a job.","answerHtml":"The point at which an individual leaves the care of the Prison Service can be a particularly difficult and testing time. My Department is focused on improving outcomes, reducing reoffending and making communities safer by ensuring people resettle successfully on leaving custody. I have met with the Ministers of Health and Communities to discuss how the housing, health and justice sectors can improve collaboration to tackle homelessness for those with complex lives.
I am committed to working with others to ensure the accommodation needs of those being released from prison are appropriately addressed.
As part of current pre-release planning arrangements, support is provided by both prison staff and partner organisations to ensure that people in our care have accommodation in place on release. However I recognise that there is a need to improve the provision of sustainable accommodation and my officials are working with the Department for Communities, Department of Health and NI Housing Executive, to consider the potential expansion of the Housing First model.
In November 2019, the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) launched a new Strengthening Family Relations Strategy for 2019-2024. The aim of the strategy is to set out how NIPS, working in partnership through a multi-agency approach, will strengthen family relationships. Due to Covid progress was delayed however, work is now ongoing to deliver the actions emerging from the Strategy.
I recognise that securing employment on release from prison can be one of the critical success factors in reducing a person’s likelihood of reoffending. My Department is taking forward a range of initiatives linked to enhance employability opportunities for people with convictions. Aside from the investment in learning and skills provision through Belfast Metropolitan and North West Regional Colleges, these include the introduction of Department for Communities work coaches into the prison setting; utilising social clauses and employment schemes to provide work experience and employment for those with convictions, and supporting the Business In The Community Ban the Box campaign, which aims to remove the criminal record checkbox from job applications at the initial stage of applying for a job.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204424%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383715"}},{"id":"383714","reference":"AQW 4423/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-11","answerBy":"2022-10-26","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to outline the process for ensuring Relationships and Sex Education is part of the curriculum and delivered in all schools from all sectors; and (ii) whether this requires additional funding to deliver effectively.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is already a compulsory part of the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding area of learning in primary schools and the Learning for Life and Work area of learning in post-primary schools. It is a matter for schools to decide what and how they teach a range of curricular issues across all areas of learning provided they meet the legal minimum requirements set out in legislation. A school’s teaching of RSE should reflect its ethos and RSE policy which should be agreed by its Board of Governors in consultation with parents and pupils.\n\nThe Education and Training Inspectorate, through its inspection of child protection and safeguarding policies and practices, routinely assesses whether or not schools have an appropriate policy for the delivery of RSE within the curriculum.\n\nFunding for the delivery of RSE in schools, as with any curricular subject, is provided through the Common Funding Formula. Schools are therefore responsible for meeting the cost of delivering the curriculum from within their delegated budgets.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is already a compulsory part of the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding area of learning in primary schools and the Learning for Life and Work area of learning in post-primary schools. It is a matter for schools to decide what and how they teach a range of curricular issues across all areas of learning provided they meet the legal minimum requirements set out in legislation. A school’s teaching of RSE should reflect its ethos and RSE policy which should be agreed by its Board of Governors in consultation with parents and pupils.
The Education and Training Inspectorate, through its inspection of child protection and safeguarding policies and practices, routinely assesses whether or not schools have an appropriate policy for the delivery of RSE within the curriculum.
Funding for the delivery of RSE in schools, as with any curricular subject, is provided through the Common Funding Formula. Schools are therefore responsible for meeting the cost of delivering the curriculum from within their delegated budgets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204423%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383714"}},{"id":"383569","reference":"AQW 4372/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-10","answerBy":"2022-10-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) what bereavement counselling services are currently available across Northern Ireland; (ii) where these are located; and (iii) what steps are being taken to offer and provide bereavement counselling services to anyone who has lost a loved one.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204372%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383569","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383569"}},{"id":"383568","reference":"AQW 4371/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-10","answerBy":"2022-10-25","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 3207/22-27, to detail the ways in which she will improve the Private Rented Sector, so that it provides a safe and secure housing option for those that need it.","answerText":"Phase 1 of Private Rented Sector reform is encapsulated in the Private Tenancies Act (NI) 2022. Those areas that are particularly focused on safety and security relate to the introduction of:\n\nMinimum standards for electrical safety and the installation of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms; and\n\nMuch longer notice to quit periods.\n\nSubject to the appropriate Committee and Assembly consideration, it is anticipated that regulations to operationalise all these improvements will be made by the end of the year.\n\nMy future consideration of what needs to happen in Phase 2 of the reform programme will be focused on what further measures I can take to improve the safety, security, and quality of this sector. My officials have already started to re-engage with key stakeholders to review what is happening in other jurisdictions to inform this work.","answerHtml":"Phase 1 of Private Rented Sector reform is encapsulated in the Private Tenancies Act (NI) 2022. Those areas that are particularly focused on safety and security relate to the introduction of:
Minimum standards for electrical safety and the installation of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide alarms; and
Much longer notice to quit periods.
Subject to the appropriate Committee and Assembly consideration, it is anticipated that regulations to operationalise all these improvements will be made by the end of the year.
My future consideration of what needs to happen in Phase 2 of the reform programme will be focused on what further measures I can take to improve the safety, security, and quality of this sector. My officials have already started to re-engage with key stakeholders to review what is happening in other jurisdictions to inform this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204371%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383568"}},{"id":"383567","reference":"AQW 4370/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-10","answerBy":"2022-10-25","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the reasons for the delay in progressing the planned amalgamation of Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College into a single, integrated school.","answerText":"On 9 March 2022, the Education Authority (EA) published a series of Development Proposals (DPs) in relation to the Causeway Area. DPs 676–680 propose the closure of Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College (IC) and the establishment of a new Controlled IC which will include Autism specific and Learning Support Classes. The statutory two-month objection period concluded on 23 May 2022.\n\nMy officials are currently collating all responses received by the Department, along with all other pertinent information and will provide me with a detailed submission to assist me in taking decisions that are in the best interest of all learners.\n\nUnfortunately, I am unable to offer a specific date for a decision. I appreciate the importance of a timely decision regarding the proposals and I am acutely aware of the need for certainty for the interested parties. I will not delay a decision any longer than necessary.","answerHtml":"On 9 March 2022, the Education Authority (EA) published a series of Development Proposals (DPs) in relation to the Causeway Area. DPs 676–680 propose the closure of Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College (IC) and the establishment of a new Controlled IC which will include Autism specific and Learning Support Classes. The statutory two-month objection period concluded on 23 May 2022.
My officials are currently collating all responses received by the Department, along with all other pertinent information and will provide me with a detailed submission to assist me in taking decisions that are in the best interest of all learners.
Unfortunately, I am unable to offer a specific date for a decision. I appreciate the importance of a timely decision regarding the proposals and I am acutely aware of the need for certainty for the interested parties. I will not delay a decision any longer than necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204370%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383567"}},{"id":"383566","reference":"AQW 4369/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-10","answerBy":"2022-10-25","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what plans he has to encourage and facilitate the expansion of renewable energy production.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to the answer given to AQW 3805/22-27 answered on 12th October 2022.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to the answer given to AQW 3805/22-27 answered on 12th October 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204369%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383566"}},{"id":"383565","reference":"AQW 4368/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-10","answerBy":"2022-10-25","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of recent excess death figures.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204368%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383565"}},{"id":"383441","reference":"AQW 4284/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-07","answerBy":"2022-10-24","answered":"2022-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for an update on what conversations she has had with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding the installation of CCTV in Portrush, with a view to increasing public safety and reducing crime in the town; and (ii) to outline what funding is available from her Department for such a project.","answerText":"I have had no conversations with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding the installation of CCTV in Portrush and I do not routinely have conversations about the provision of CCTV as my Department does not fund town centre or public-facing CCTV cameras in any council area and has no funding mechanisms available for CCTV related projects.\n\nMy Department in partnership with the Northern Ireland Policing Board provides annual funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) who lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues at a local level. PCSPs through local engagement and working in partnership with designated partners including PSNI; local statutory bodies/agencies; the voluntary sector and local communities identify and prioritise local community safety and policing concerns and develop and deliver initiatives that help alleviate those local concerns.","answerHtml":"I have had no conversations with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding the installation of CCTV in Portrush and I do not routinely have conversations about the provision of CCTV as my Department does not fund town centre or public-facing CCTV cameras in any council area and has no funding mechanisms available for CCTV related projects.
My Department in partnership with the Northern Ireland Policing Board provides annual funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) who lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues at a local level. PCSPs through local engagement and working in partnership with designated partners including PSNI; local statutory bodies/agencies; the voluntary sector and local communities identify and prioritise local community safety and policing concerns and develop and deliver initiatives that help alleviate those local concerns.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204284%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383441"}},{"id":"383440","reference":"AQW 4283/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-07","answerBy":"2022-10-24","answered":"2022-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the current criminal assets recovery powers, in particular that relating to drug crime; and (ii) to detail what plans she has to seek to strengthen these powers.","answerText":"Financial gain remains the principal driver of organised criminality and therefore asset recovery powers are vital tools in the fight against organised criminal activity in all its forms, including drug-related crime. The asset recovery powers available to law enforcement bodies to deprive criminals of their proceeds of crime and prevent the further funding of crime are substantial and used effectively by relevant partners in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) is the principal legislation for criminal and civil asset recovery powers and anti-money laundering provisions across the UK. The powers available facilitate the recovery of assets by the confiscation of the proceeds of crime following a criminal conviction and by civil powers such as cash seizure and forfeiture, listed assets seizure and forfeiture, freezing and forfeiture of money in accounts, civil recovery action and tax recovery.\n\nOperational organisations with asset recovery powers in Northern Ireland are represented on the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF). The OCTF Annual Report and Threat Assessment (https://www.octf.gov.uk/publications/type/octf-annual-report-threat-assessments) records the operational response to disrupting the importation, distribution and sale of drugs by organised crime groups and reports on the asset recovery performance of all relevant partners. The OCTF partners routinely prioritise asset recovery in both proactive and reactive operations.\n\nThe Home Office publishes an asset recovery statistical bulletin covering asset recovery performance in England and Wales and Northern Ireland. Data linked to crime type/activity is not available:\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/asset-recovery-statistical-bulletin-financial-years-ending-2017-to-2022/asset-recovery-statistical-bulletin-financial-years-ending-2017-to-2022.\n\nUtilising the full suite of asset recovery powers is essential in the fight against organised crime; NI must be as robust as other jurisdictions in its response. I prioritised the commencement of the outstanding provisions of the Criminal Finances Act 2017, which in June 2021 introduced the asset recovery powers to seize and forfeit listed assets and freeze and forfeit money in accounts. The use of these powers in Northern Ireland continues to grow and will be reported in the OCTF Annual Report and the Home Office statistical bulletin.\n\nMy Department continues to work with the Home Office on strategic and legislative approaches to enhance asset recovery.","answerHtml":"Financial gain remains the principal driver of organised criminality and therefore asset recovery powers are vital tools in the fight against organised criminal activity in all its forms, including drug-related crime. The asset recovery powers available to law enforcement bodies to deprive criminals of their proceeds of crime and prevent the further funding of crime are substantial and used effectively by relevant partners in Northern Ireland.
The Proceeds of Crime Act 2002 (POCA) is the principal legislation for criminal and civil asset recovery powers and anti-money laundering provisions across the UK. The powers available facilitate the recovery of assets by the confiscation of the proceeds of crime following a criminal conviction and by civil powers such as cash seizure and forfeiture, listed assets seizure and forfeiture, freezing and forfeiture of money in accounts, civil recovery action and tax recovery.
Operational organisations with asset recovery powers in Northern Ireland are represented on the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF). The OCTF Annual Report and Threat Assessment (https://www.octf.gov.uk/publications/type/octf-annual-report-threat-assessments) records the operational response to disrupting the importation, distribution and sale of drugs by organised crime groups and reports on the asset recovery performance of all relevant partners. The OCTF partners routinely prioritise asset recovery in both proactive and reactive operations.
The Home Office publishes an asset recovery statistical bulletin covering asset recovery performance in England and Wales and Northern Ireland. Data linked to crime type/activity is not available:
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/asset-recovery-statistical-bulletin-financial-years-ending-2017-to-2022/asset-recovery-statistical-bulletin-financial-years-ending-2017-to-2022.
Utilising the full suite of asset recovery powers is essential in the fight against organised crime; NI must be as robust as other jurisdictions in its response. I prioritised the commencement of the outstanding provisions of the Criminal Finances Act 2017, which in June 2021 introduced the asset recovery powers to seize and forfeit listed assets and freeze and forfeit money in accounts. The use of these powers in Northern Ireland continues to grow and will be reported in the OCTF Annual Report and the Home Office statistical bulletin.
My Department continues to work with the Home Office on strategic and legislative approaches to enhance asset recovery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204283%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383440"}},{"id":"383439","reference":"AQW 4282/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-07","answerBy":"2022-10-24","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the level of drug-related activity in Limavady; (ii) how this has changed in recent years; and (iii) to detail what resources her Department has provided to the area in order to reduce drug-related activity.","answerText":"Data on drug related and drug misuse deaths at local government district level is published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency on behalf of the Department of Health and can be found at: Drug-Related and Drug-Misuse Deaths 2010-2020 | Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (nisra.gov.uk). The PSNI also provide statistics on drugs seizures across district council areas on a quarterly basis: Drug Seizure Statistics | PSNI\n\nFrom a criminal justice perspective, it is not possible to accurately assess the full extent of drug related activity as not all those engaged in such activity will come into contact with the justice system. Moreover, the assessment of, and response to, any criminal activity is primarily an operational matter for the Chief Constable. The PSNI has advised that under Operation DEALBREAKER, it will continue to work with partners to prevent drugs coming into our communities, protect the most vulnerable from harm, and pursue those involved in drugs criminality.\n\nMy Department, through the work of the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF), supports the ongoing efforts of the OCTF drugs subgroup, which provides a forum for operational partners to monitor trends and respond to issues relating to illegal drugs.\n\nAt a community level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, take a lead on the operational response to these issues.\n\nActions currently being delivered by Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP include early intervention initiatives, increased engagement with local Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams (DACTs), information sharing between the PCSP and PSNI, the holding of public PCSP meetings to raise awareness of issues, public information campaigns, educational programmes delivered to post-primary schools (including on drink-spiking) and the installation of RAPID bins.","answerHtml":"Data on drug related and drug misuse deaths at local government district level is published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency on behalf of the Department of Health and can be found at: Drug-Related and Drug-Misuse Deaths 2010-2020 | Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (nisra.gov.uk). The PSNI also provide statistics on drugs seizures across district council areas on a quarterly basis: Drug Seizure Statistics | PSNI
From a criminal justice perspective, it is not possible to accurately assess the full extent of drug related activity as not all those engaged in such activity will come into contact with the justice system. Moreover, the assessment of, and response to, any criminal activity is primarily an operational matter for the Chief Constable. The PSNI has advised that under Operation DEALBREAKER, it will continue to work with partners to prevent drugs coming into our communities, protect the most vulnerable from harm, and pursue those involved in drugs criminality.
My Department, through the work of the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF), supports the ongoing efforts of the OCTF drugs subgroup, which provides a forum for operational partners to monitor trends and respond to issues relating to illegal drugs.
At a community level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), funded by my Department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, take a lead on the operational response to these issues.
Actions currently being delivered by Causeway Coast and Glens PCSP include early intervention initiatives, increased engagement with local Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams (DACTs), information sharing between the PCSP and PSNI, the holding of public PCSP meetings to raise awareness of issues, public information campaigns, educational programmes delivered to post-primary schools (including on drink-spiking) and the installation of RAPID bins.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204282%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383439"}},{"id":"383438","reference":"AQW 4281/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-07","answerBy":"2022-10-24","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) how the disability employment services currently funded by the European Social Fund will be paid for after March 2023; and (ii) what conversations he has had with the Westminster government regarding its involvement in future funding of these services.","answerText":"The UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) pledges to replace EU Structural Funds. The Department for Communities (DfC) has responsibility for employability policy, including for those people with disabilities. I understand that DfC is developing a new Disability Employment Strategy which will include a long-term commitment to reducing the disability employment gap.\n\nI have had no conversations with the Westminster government regarding future funding of disability employment services as this responsibility rests with my ministerial colleague, the Minister for Communities. More generally, the Minister of Finance leads on the negotiation of EU replacement funding with the UK Government. However, going back as far as 2018, DfE has been involved extensively with the series of Westminster officials involved in UK SPF. We have provided a substantial volume of evidence, information and data in an attempt to direct funding and have always been clear that replacement of ESF is a priority.","answerHtml":"The UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) pledges to replace EU Structural Funds. The Department for Communities (DfC) has responsibility for employability policy, including for those people with disabilities. I understand that DfC is developing a new Disability Employment Strategy which will include a long-term commitment to reducing the disability employment gap.
I have had no conversations with the Westminster government regarding future funding of disability employment services as this responsibility rests with my ministerial colleague, the Minister for Communities. More generally, the Minister of Finance leads on the negotiation of EU replacement funding with the UK Government. However, going back as far as 2018, DfE has been involved extensively with the series of Westminster officials involved in UK SPF. We have provided a substantial volume of evidence, information and data in an attempt to direct funding and have always been clear that replacement of ESF is a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204281%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383438"}},{"id":"383437","reference":"AQW 4280/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-07","answerBy":"2022-10-24","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what work she has undertaken to create a minimum income for artists programme, similar to that in the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"I am aware of the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) programme currently being piloted in the Republic of Ireland. I am interested to see further reports on impacts, both in relation to individual artists and to the sector as whole. Any future commitment as regards a similar scheme for Northern Ireland would depend on robust supporting evidence and funding availability.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the Basic Income for the Arts (BIA) programme currently being piloted in the Republic of Ireland. I am interested to see further reports on impacts, both in relation to individual artists and to the sector as whole. Any future commitment as regards a similar scheme for Northern Ireland would depend on robust supporting evidence and funding availability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204280%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383437"}},{"id":"383221","reference":"AQW 4186/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the average response time taken by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to review consent for effluent discharge for a property; and (ii) what actions are being taken to improve these times, particularly when the review is needed for a house sale completion.","answerText":"The average time taken to process applications for new consents, variations to existing consents or consent transfers in 2021/2022 was 13.5 weeks.\n\nThis is a high-volume business area (averaging over 280 applications each month) and NIEA is continually seeking to improve service delivery. In November 2020, NIEA introduced a portal for applying online for new consents and transfers. Further reviews of processes and systems are ongoing under the Department’s Digital Transformation Programme to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of data management and service delivery.\n\nApplications linked with house sales may involve a new application for consent; a variation, or a transfer of an existing consent and the NIEA will seek to process urgent requests as soon as possible, dependant on the type of application and information required.","answerHtml":"The average time taken to process applications for new consents, variations to existing consents or consent transfers in 2021/2022 was 13.5 weeks.
This is a high-volume business area (averaging over 280 applications each month) and NIEA is continually seeking to improve service delivery. In November 2020, NIEA introduced a portal for applying online for new consents and transfers. Further reviews of processes and systems are ongoing under the Department’s Digital Transformation Programme to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of data management and service delivery.
Applications linked with house sales may involve a new application for consent; a variation, or a transfer of an existing consent and the NIEA will seek to process urgent requests as soon as possible, dependant on the type of application and information required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204186%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383221"}},{"id":"383220","reference":"AQW 4185/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2024-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the number of older people currently presenting and being accepted as homeless; and (ii) to detail what specific support exists for older people who find themselves homeless.","answerText":"I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, who has advised me as follows:\n\n“The table below outlines the number of presentations and acceptances from households within the pensioner household category.\n\nPensioner Households Presenting/Accepted as Homeless 2022/23 & 2023/24\nYear\t2022/23\t2023/24\nPresenters\t2200\t2414\nAcceptances\t1729\t1926\n\nAny household who presents as homeless to the Housing Executive will be provided with support and assistance through Housing Solutions and Support Teams. This will include the identification of any support needs and subsequent engagement with other localised services to provide, as far as possible, wrap around support. This support can include floating support to prevent homelessness or temporary accommodation in cases where emergency accommodation is required.\n\nFloating Support is delivered on a short-term basis into the home and can prevent older people becoming homeless by resolving a housing crisis or ensuring one doesn’t develop. For those who are seeking to move or find accommodation, floating support can also assist with applications, taking on a new tenancy and support with move in and setting up a new home.\n\nPeripatetic Support, delivered on a long-term basis, provides help and assistance to older people to enable them to continue to live independently in their own home for as long as possible.\n\nIf an older person has a low-level support need, then they can also apply for Sheltered/Continued Independent Living Accommodation.\n\nSheltered/Continued Independent Living Accommodation usually includes a group of flats or bungalows, specially built and designed for older people, with support provided on site by a scheme coordinator during weekday office hours.”","answerHtml":"I have sought the requested information from the Chief Executive of the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, who has advised me as follows:
“The table below outlines the number of presentations and acceptances from households within the pensioner household category.
| Pensioner Households Presenting/Accepted as Homeless 2022/23 & 2023/24 | ||
| Year | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Presenters | 2200 | 2414 |
| Acceptances | 1729 | 1926 |
Any household who presents as homeless to the Housing Executive will be provided with support and assistance through Housing Solutions and Support Teams. This will include the identification of any support needs and subsequent engagement with other localised services to provide, as far as possible, wrap around support. This support can include floating support to prevent homelessness or temporary accommodation in cases where emergency accommodation is required.
Floating Support is delivered on a short-term basis into the home and can prevent older people becoming homeless by resolving a housing crisis or ensuring one doesn’t develop. For those who are seeking to move or find accommodation, floating support can also assist with applications, taking on a new tenancy and support with move in and setting up a new home.
Peripatetic Support, delivered on a long-term basis, provides help and assistance to older people to enable them to continue to live independently in their own home for as long as possible.
If an older person has a low-level support need, then they can also apply for Sheltered/Continued Independent Living Accommodation.
Sheltered/Continued Independent Living Accommodation usually includes a group of flats or bungalows, specially built and designed for older people, with support provided on site by a scheme coordinator during weekday office hours.”
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204185%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383220"}},{"id":"383219","reference":"AQW 4184/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2022-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the average length of time taken by his Department to determine the outcome of a major planning application, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"From 1 April 2017 - 30 June 2022, there have been 32 major applications processed by my Department with 29 decisions issued and 3 applications withdrawn. The average processing time for these applications was 187.4 weeks.\n\nThe data below from 2017/18 provides information for the last five full years and the first three months of the current year (April-June 2022), showing major planning applications processed to decision by my Department or withdrawn by the applicant.\n\nYear\t\tApproved\tRefused\tWithdrawn\tAverage processing time (weeks)2\n2017/18\t\t10\t2\t0\t169.0\n2018/19\t\t4\t1\t0\t383.2\n2019/20\t\t2\t0\t0\t30.3\n2020/21\t\t2\t0\t1\t350.4\n2021/22\t\t6\t0\t0\t160.8\n2022/23 (Apr-Jun 22)1\t\t1\t1\t2\t610.0\nTotal\t\t25\t4\t3\t187.4\n\nSource: NI Planning Portal\n\nNotes:\n\n1 Quarterly estimates for 2022/23 are provisional and will be subject to revision\n\n2 The time taken to process a decision/withdrawal is deemed valid to the date on which the decision is issued, or the application is withdrawn. The median is used for the average processing time as any extreme values have the potential to inflate the mean, leading to a result that may not be considered as \"typical\".","answerHtml":"From 1 April 2017 - 30 June 2022, there have been 32 major applications processed by my Department with 29 decisions issued and 3 applications withdrawn. The average processing time for these applications was 187.4 weeks.
The data below from 2017/18 provides information for the last five full years and the first three months of the current year (April-June 2022), showing major planning applications processed to decision by my Department or withdrawn by the applicant.
| Year | Approved | Refused | Withdrawn | Average processing time (weeks)2 | ||
| 2017/18 | 10 | 2 | 0 | 169.0 | ||
| 2018/19 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 383.2 | ||
| 2019/20 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 30.3 | ||
| 2020/21 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 350.4 | ||
| 2021/22 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 160.8 | ||
| 2022/23 (Apr-Jun 22)1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 610.0 | ||
| Total | 25 | 4 | 3 | 187.4 | ||
Source: NI Planning Portal
Notes:
1 Quarterly estimates for 2022/23 are provisional and will be subject to revision
2 The time taken to process a decision/withdrawal is deemed valid to the date on which the decision is issued, or the application is withdrawn. The median is used for the average processing time as any extreme values have the potential to inflate the mean, leading to a result that may not be considered as "typical".
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204184%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383219","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383219"}},{"id":"383218","reference":"AQW 4183/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-21","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether a person on the social housing waiting list, who subsequently secures a private rental property, is still able to use previously awarded Housing Executive points for homelessness in an application.","answerText":"The Housing Executive will have discharged its statutory duty to all Full Duty Applicant Households (those “accepted” as statutorily homeless) once a household secures a permanent tenancy with all associated points removed. Should the household subsequently find themselves homelessness or threatened with homelessness, they can present to the Housing Executive where a new assessment of their circumstances will be undertaken and if they meet the tests to be “accepted” as statutorily homeless will again be awarded full duty status and appropriate points.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive will have discharged its statutory duty to all Full Duty Applicant Households (those “accepted” as statutorily homeless) once a household secures a permanent tenancy with all associated points removed. Should the household subsequently find themselves homelessness or threatened with homelessness, they can present to the Housing Executive where a new assessment of their circumstances will be undertaken and if they meet the tests to be “accepted” as statutorily homeless will again be awarded full duty status and appropriate points.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204183%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383218","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383218"}},{"id":"383217","reference":"AQW 4182/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-06","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how, amid cuts to the Rebuilding Support Scheme fees being paid to NHS dentists, he will ensure that (i) no NHS dentist is operating at a loss; (ii) everyone who needs NHS dental treatment is able to register with a dentist and receive timely care; and (iii) health service dentistry is future-proofed and sustainable.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204182%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383217","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383217"}},{"id":"383099","reference":"AQW 4119/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) what other completed or planned visits by foreign travel agents have been facilitated by Tourism NI, further to that with representatives from the Indian travel agent sector; and (ii) how the success of such visits can be assessed.","answerText":"Tourism NI, working in partnership with Tourism Ireland, undertakes an extensive programme of fact-finding or familiarisation visits for tour operators and travel agents from around the world, so that they can experience the superb tourism product in Northern Ireland for themselves at first-hand. The objective is to increase awareness of Northern Ireland among influential travel professionals, to help Northern Ireland secure a greater share of their business, and to ensure that they can sell the destination to their customers with more enthusiasm and authority when they return home.\n\nDuring 2022 so far, Tourism NI has welcomed tour operators and travel agents from various global markets.\n\nIn addition to the Indian familiarisation visit to which you refer, Tourism NI hosted 65 tour operators in March 2022 on a programme of 5 familiarisation trips right across Northern Ireland as part of Tourism NI’s annual flagship travel trade event, Meet the Buyer.\n\nIn May, Tourism NI facilitated a week - long familiarisation trip for the Education Travel Consortium’s Executive Advisory Council. The Council members include senior travel planners from nonprofit educational travel providers, and US tour operators.\n\nIn September, Tourism NI supported 4 operators from the Gulf Cooperation Council market to promote luxury products and experiences in Northern Ireland to target their high-net-worth clients. In addition, earlier this month, Tourism NI welcomed a further 4 separate familiarisation trips for 48 travel agents from Australia/New Zealand, Austria, Belgium & Canada.\n\nNext month, planned familiarisation visits will include 23 travel agents from the Canadian and Spanish markets. November will also see Tourism NI once again host the ITOA (Incoming Tour Operators Association of Ireland) Workshop which will take place in County Fermanagh.\n\nThere will be 2 familiarisation visits associated with the event which will see approximately 50 operators taking in products and experiences across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe success of activity with the travel trade overseas can be measured by increased awareness and knowledge of Northern Ireland; increased programming of the destination in the tour operators’ programmes and brochures; and by increased bookings.\n\nTourism NI in partnership with Tourism Ireland, conducts an evaluation of all such activity. The feedback is invaluable for informing product and industry development activities by Tourism NI, but also in gauging the future impact of the programme. In 2022, a survey of buyers who had attended Meet the Buyer familiarisation trips indicated that:\n\n•97% said the visit would encourage them to promote NI to their clients\n\n•95% said it would allow them to better programme NI\n\n•97% said they will increase programming of NI in future as a result of the visit.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI, working in partnership with Tourism Ireland, undertakes an extensive programme of fact-finding or familiarisation visits for tour operators and travel agents from around the world, so that they can experience the superb tourism product in Northern Ireland for themselves at first-hand. The objective is to increase awareness of Northern Ireland among influential travel professionals, to help Northern Ireland secure a greater share of their business, and to ensure that they can sell the destination to their customers with more enthusiasm and authority when they return home.
During 2022 so far, Tourism NI has welcomed tour operators and travel agents from various global markets.
In addition to the Indian familiarisation visit to which you refer, Tourism NI hosted 65 tour operators in March 2022 on a programme of 5 familiarisation trips right across Northern Ireland as part of Tourism NI’s annual flagship travel trade event, Meet the Buyer.
In May, Tourism NI facilitated a week - long familiarisation trip for the Education Travel Consortium’s Executive Advisory Council. The Council members include senior travel planners from nonprofit educational travel providers, and US tour operators.
In September, Tourism NI supported 4 operators from the Gulf Cooperation Council market to promote luxury products and experiences in Northern Ireland to target their high-net-worth clients. In addition, earlier this month, Tourism NI welcomed a further 4 separate familiarisation trips for 48 travel agents from Australia/New Zealand, Austria, Belgium & Canada.
Next month, planned familiarisation visits will include 23 travel agents from the Canadian and Spanish markets. November will also see Tourism NI once again host the ITOA (Incoming Tour Operators Association of Ireland) Workshop which will take place in County Fermanagh.
There will be 2 familiarisation visits associated with the event which will see approximately 50 operators taking in products and experiences across Northern Ireland.
The success of activity with the travel trade overseas can be measured by increased awareness and knowledge of Northern Ireland; increased programming of the destination in the tour operators’ programmes and brochures; and by increased bookings.
Tourism NI in partnership with Tourism Ireland, conducts an evaluation of all such activity. The feedback is invaluable for informing product and industry development activities by Tourism NI, but also in gauging the future impact of the programme. In 2022, a survey of buyers who had attended Meet the Buyer familiarisation trips indicated that:
•97% said the visit would encourage them to promote NI to their clients
•95% said it would allow them to better programme NI
•97% said they will increase programming of NI in future as a result of the visit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204119%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383099"}},{"id":"383098","reference":"AQW 4118/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the volume of human milk donated in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Information on donations of human milk made in Northern Ireland is not held centrally within my Department. Western Health and Social Care Trust, which provides a milk bank service for neonatal and seriously ill babies to all five of the Health and Social Care Trusts, as well as some hospitals in the Republic of Ireland, was asked for input. The figures they provided are tabulated overleaf.\n\nHuman Donor Expressed Breast Milk (DEBM) received in litres from 2018 to date1\n\nYear\tDEBM received (in litres)\n2018\t378.472\n2019\t1136.0\n2020\t1315.2\n2021\t1919.7\n2022\t1284.8\n\nSource: Women and Children’s Directorate, Western Health and Social Care Trust\n\n12022 data is up until 2 October 2022 only.\n\n2During 2018, operations in the facility were suspended because of the discovery of pseudomonas.","answerHtml":"Information on donations of human milk made in Northern Ireland is not held centrally within my Department. Western Health and Social Care Trust, which provides a milk bank service for neonatal and seriously ill babies to all five of the Health and Social Care Trusts, as well as some hospitals in the Republic of Ireland, was asked for input. The figures they provided are tabulated overleaf.
Human Donor Expressed Breast Milk (DEBM) received in litres from 2018 to date1
| Year | DEBM received (in litres) |
| 2018 | 378.472 |
| 2019 | 1136.0 |
| 2020 | 1315.2 |
| 2021 | 1919.7 |
| 2022 | 1284.8 |
Source: Women and Children’s Directorate, Western Health and Social Care Trust
12022 data is up until 2 October 2022 only.
2During 2018, operations in the facility were suspended because of the discovery of pseudomonas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204118%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383098"}},{"id":"383097","reference":"AQW 4117/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the volume of blood donated in each of the last five years.","answerText":"As the data requested is not held centrally within my Department, the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) was asked for input and their data is provided in the table below.\n\nUnits of whole blood donated to the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service from 2017/18 to 2021/22\n\nDonation\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\nWhole Blood\t43,207\t43,319\t40,253\t36,764\t40,067\n\nSource: Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service.\n\nI hope that you will find this information useful.","answerHtml":"As the data requested is not held centrally within my Department, the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) was asked for input and their data is provided in the table below.
Units of whole blood donated to the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service from 2017/18 to 2021/22
| Donation | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Whole Blood | 43,207 | 43,319 | 40,253 | 36,764 | 40,067 |
Source: Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service.
I hope that you will find this information useful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204117%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383097"}},{"id":"383096","reference":"AQW 4116/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the total number of schools that have transitioned (i) to; and (ii) from, integrated status.","answerText":"Since 1991, 31 schools have transformed to Integrated status. The detail in respect of the schools that successfully transitioned to Integrated status is set out in the table below:\n\nNursery School\tPrimary School\tPost Primary\nSchool Name\tTransformed\tSchool Name\tTransformed\tSchool Name\tTransformed\nBrefne\t2021\tCarhill\t1992\tBrownlow\t1991\nBangor Central\t2022\tPortaferry\t1995\tFort Hill\t1998\nRathenraw\t1996\tPriory\t1998\nAnnsborough\t1997\tCrumlin\t2007\nBangor Central\t1998\tParkhall\t2009\nKilbroney\t1998\tGlengormley\t2021\nKircubbin\t1998\nCarnlough\t2001\nGlengormley\t2003\nRound Tower\t2003\nGlencraig\t2004\nGroarty\t2005\nBallycastle\t2007\nCliftonville\t2008\nBallymoney\t2009\nFort Hill\t2009\nCrumlin\t2010\nMallusk\t2015\nLoughries\t2016\nKillyleagh\t2016\nHarding Memorial\t2021\nCarrickfergus Central\t2021\nSeaview\t2021\nTOTAL\t2\tTOTAL\t23\tTOTAL\t6\n\nThere are no schools that have transitioned from Integrated status.","answerHtml":"Since 1991, 31 schools have transformed to Integrated status. The detail in respect of the schools that successfully transitioned to Integrated status is set out in the table below:
| Nursery School | Primary School | Post Primary | |||
| School Name | Transformed | School Name | Transformed | School Name | Transformed |
| Brefne | 2021 | Carhill | 1992 | Brownlow | 1991 |
| Bangor Central | 2022 | Portaferry | 1995 | Fort Hill | 1998 |
| Rathenraw | 1996 | Priory | 1998 | ||
| Annsborough | 1997 | Crumlin | 2007 | ||
| Bangor Central | 1998 | Parkhall | 2009 | ||
| Kilbroney | 1998 | Glengormley | 2021 | ||
| Kircubbin | 1998 | ||||
| Carnlough | 2001 | ||||
| Glengormley | 2003 | ||||
| Round Tower | 2003 | ||||
| Glencraig | 2004 | ||||
| Groarty | 2005 | ||||
| Ballycastle | 2007 | ||||
| Cliftonville | 2008 | ||||
| Ballymoney | 2009 | ||||
| Fort Hill | 2009 | ||||
| Crumlin | 2010 | ||||
| Mallusk | 2015 | ||||
| Loughries | 2016 | ||||
| Killyleagh | 2016 | ||||
| Harding Memorial | 2021 | ||||
| Carrickfergus Central | 2021 | ||||
| Seaview | 2021 | ||||
| TOTAL | 2 | TOTAL | 23 | TOTAL | 6 |
There are no schools that have transitioned from Integrated status.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204116%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383096"}},{"id":"383095","reference":"AQW 4115/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-05","answerBy":"2022-10-20","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) what plans his Department has to legislate on party walls and structures as recommended by the Northern Ireland Land Commission in its 2010 Report on Land Law; and (ii) to detail the existing laws that protect homeowners when an adjoining building is being demolished.","answerText":"There are currently no plans to legislate on party walls and structures.\n\nHomeowners and those carrying out works here continue to rely on rights they enjoy at common law, which include the right to repair any defective party structure, to pull down any party structure which is not strong enough to support any building which is to be built, and to replace it with a structure of sufficient strength. They may also cut away or take down any wall or building that overhangs a building owner’s ground in order to erect an upright wall.\n\nHomeowners are also given an opportunity to object to certain proposed building projects as part of the standard planning permission process","answerHtml":"There are currently no plans to legislate on party walls and structures.
Homeowners and those carrying out works here continue to rely on rights they enjoy at common law, which include the right to repair any defective party structure, to pull down any party structure which is not strong enough to support any building which is to be built, and to replace it with a structure of sufficient strength. They may also cut away or take down any wall or building that overhangs a building owner’s ground in order to erect an upright wall.
Homeowners are also given an opportunity to object to certain proposed building projects as part of the standard planning permission process
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204115%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=383095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=383095"}},{"id":"382830","reference":"AQW 3964/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) what plans he has to improve road and pedestrian safety along the A2 near Dunluce Castle, where people often stop cars and coaches in order to take photographs; and (ii) what conversations he has had with the PSNI regarding this.","answerText":"My Department was a key stakeholder in the development of the Causeway Coast Visitor Management Strategy led by Tourism NI which was looking at how visitors to a number of attractions around the Causeway Coast, including Dunluce Castle could be better managed. I understand proposals are now being developed as part of the Regional Growth Deal and my officials are fully engaged in this process. In the past my Department has highlighted the safety issues in consultation responses to licence applications from cross-border tour operators and has had some success in influencing their actions at this and other locations.\n\nDiscussions have taken place with PSNI Road Policing over several years regarding concerns about safety at this location and it was concluded that the introduction of restrictions at locations where tourists currently stop could potentially result in them stopping in more hazardous positions with associated implications for road safety. My Department is not aware of any change to the PSNI’s views on this issue.\n\nShould you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Northern Division at: dfiroads.northern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"My Department was a key stakeholder in the development of the Causeway Coast Visitor Management Strategy led by Tourism NI which was looking at how visitors to a number of attractions around the Causeway Coast, including Dunluce Castle could be better managed. I understand proposals are now being developed as part of the Regional Growth Deal and my officials are fully engaged in this process. In the past my Department has highlighted the safety issues in consultation responses to licence applications from cross-border tour operators and has had some success in influencing their actions at this and other locations.
Discussions have taken place with PSNI Road Policing over several years regarding concerns about safety at this location and it was concluded that the introduction of restrictions at locations where tourists currently stop could potentially result in them stopping in more hazardous positions with associated implications for road safety. My Department is not aware of any change to the PSNI’s views on this issue.
Should you have any further questions on this matter, please contact DfI Roads Northern Division at: dfiroads.northern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203964%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382830","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382830"}},{"id":"382829","reference":"AQW 3963/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the development of a loneliness strategy.","answerText":"Currently, Northern Ireland does not have a specific strategy to address loneliness, however it is acknowledged as an important but cross cutting issue that no one organization can tackle working alone. It requires a collective response and a collaborative approach involving all sectors, central government, agencies, voluntary and community sector and beyond. As a society we need to give the issue of loneliness greater priority, given its impact on society’s health and wellbeing.\n\nMy department has established a small loneliness working group who are responsible for collecting information and consulting with colleagues in the DoH, other NICS departments as well as the wider HSC family. We continue to engage with these departments and organizations through an established interdepartmental and regional HSC Trust loneliness forum.\n\nMy Department has completed a scoping exercise inclusive of a literature review across the Northern Ireland to identify how the issue is being addressed in existing policies and services across a variety of agencies. This work will now continue in the form of a loneliness framework, which will have a focus on health and well-being and will support HSCTs and those they work with to address loneliness.","answerHtml":"Currently, Northern Ireland does not have a specific strategy to address loneliness, however it is acknowledged as an important but cross cutting issue that no one organization can tackle working alone. It requires a collective response and a collaborative approach involving all sectors, central government, agencies, voluntary and community sector and beyond. As a society we need to give the issue of loneliness greater priority, given its impact on society’s health and wellbeing.
My department has established a small loneliness working group who are responsible for collecting information and consulting with colleagues in the DoH, other NICS departments as well as the wider HSC family. We continue to engage with these departments and organizations through an established interdepartmental and regional HSC Trust loneliness forum.
My Department has completed a scoping exercise inclusive of a literature review across the Northern Ireland to identify how the issue is being addressed in existing policies and services across a variety of agencies. This work will now continue in the form of a loneliness framework, which will have a focus on health and well-being and will support HSCTs and those they work with to address loneliness.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203963%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382829"}},{"id":"382828","reference":"AQW 3962/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the review into eligibility criteria for free school meals and the school uniform grant; and (ii) to detail what consideration she has given to adopting a ceiling price for school uniforms, similar to rules made in England.","answerText":"My Department is currently undertaking a review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The review has considered a wide range of options that include the provision of a universal free school meals to some/all year groups as well as raising the income thresholds that apply to the eligibility criteria for applicants in receipt of Universal Credit or Working/Child Tax Credit.\n\nMy Department continues to develop a costed options paper and it is intended that a public consultation exercise will take place later in the year.\n\nIn relation to the cost of school uniforms, I have instructed officials to identify an approach that will seek to ensure, on a statutory basis, that schools are required to make their uniforms more affordable for families. As part of this process, officials will be considering the introduction of a maximum price on the costs of uniforms, however the statutory guidance that now applies on the costs of school uniforms in England and Wales does not include any such price restrictions.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently undertaking a review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The review has considered a wide range of options that include the provision of a universal free school meals to some/all year groups as well as raising the income thresholds that apply to the eligibility criteria for applicants in receipt of Universal Credit or Working/Child Tax Credit.
My Department continues to develop a costed options paper and it is intended that a public consultation exercise will take place later in the year.
In relation to the cost of school uniforms, I have instructed officials to identify an approach that will seek to ensure, on a statutory basis, that schools are required to make their uniforms more affordable for families. As part of this process, officials will be considering the introduction of a maximum price on the costs of uniforms, however the statutory guidance that now applies on the costs of school uniforms in England and Wales does not include any such price restrictions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203962%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382828"}},{"id":"382827","reference":"AQW 3961/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of (i) the current asbestos removal regulations, in particular in relation to the cost to the property owner; and (ii) how these costs impact the level of illegal and potentially hazardous removals and disposals.","answerText":"(i)The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, associated with the removal of asbestos from privately owned properties, is the responsibility of the Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Department for the Economy. Consequently, it is not for my Department to give an assessment of these regulations.\n\nThe movement of hazardous wastes, including those containing asbestos, is regulated under Hazardous Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005 for which my Department is the enforcing authority. These regulations set out a system for identifying and then recording the movement of waste deemed to be hazardous. The aim of this is to ensure that waste is recovered or disposed of whilst safeguarding human health and without using processes or methods (including its transportation) which could harm the environment\n\nUnder these regulations my Department (NIEA) charges a fee of £24 for the supply of each serial consignment number to consignors of hazardous waste (such as asbestos containing wastes) for use on the consignment note that tracks the waste movement. This fee has not been increased since it was inaugurated in 1998.\n\nFurther, as noted in my previous related reply (AQW 2135/22-27) a private householder may bring properly packaged asbestos containing wastes to a licensed site themselves without the need for a consignment note (they will need to contact the site in advance of travelling to find out whether any specific conditions apply) in which case no fee would apply.\n\nAll other costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos, i.e. contractor labour costs incurred in dismantling/removal and packaging the asbestos, its carriage costs and waste transfer station/landfill site charges are set on a commercial basis by the waste industry.\n\n(ii) Asbestos is a product historically used in the Building Industry. As such illegal disposal of asbestos or asbestos containing wastes (ACW) reflects general trends in the building industry. The more building/renovation/demolition activity taking place the more ACW is generated to be disposed of, either legally or illegally.\n\nNIEA operates a Flytipping Partnership with 7 Councils. Under this ACW that has been fly-tipped may be reported to NIEA for collection and disposal. NIEA can see no discernible trend in the amount of fly-tipped ACW collected and disposed of year on year.","answerHtml":"(i)The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012, associated with the removal of asbestos from privately owned properties, is the responsibility of the Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), an Executive Non-Departmental Public Body sponsored by the Department for the Economy. Consequently, it is not for my Department to give an assessment of these regulations.
The movement of hazardous wastes, including those containing asbestos, is regulated under Hazardous Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005 for which my Department is the enforcing authority. These regulations set out a system for identifying and then recording the movement of waste deemed to be hazardous. The aim of this is to ensure that waste is recovered or disposed of whilst safeguarding human health and without using processes or methods (including its transportation) which could harm the environment
Under these regulations my Department (NIEA) charges a fee of £24 for the supply of each serial consignment number to consignors of hazardous waste (such as asbestos containing wastes) for use on the consignment note that tracks the waste movement. This fee has not been increased since it was inaugurated in 1998.
Further, as noted in my previous related reply (AQW 2135/22-27) a private householder may bring properly packaged asbestos containing wastes to a licensed site themselves without the need for a consignment note (they will need to contact the site in advance of travelling to find out whether any specific conditions apply) in which case no fee would apply.
All other costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos, i.e. contractor labour costs incurred in dismantling/removal and packaging the asbestos, its carriage costs and waste transfer station/landfill site charges are set on a commercial basis by the waste industry.
(ii) Asbestos is a product historically used in the Building Industry. As such illegal disposal of asbestos or asbestos containing wastes (ACW) reflects general trends in the building industry. The more building/renovation/demolition activity taking place the more ACW is generated to be disposed of, either legally or illegally.
NIEA operates a Flytipping Partnership with 7 Councils. Under this ACW that has been fly-tipped may be reported to NIEA for collection and disposal. NIEA can see no discernible trend in the amount of fly-tipped ACW collected and disposed of year on year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203961%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382827"}},{"id":"382826","reference":"AQW 3960/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-10-03","answerBy":"2022-10-18","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what safeguards are in place to ensure the fairness of health assessments carried out for Personal Independence Payment claims by private companies.","answerText":"Departmental officials monitor and manage the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment provider’s (Capita) assessment process.\n\nA monthly Independent Customer Satisfaction Survey is undertaken.\n\nThe Department’s Health Assessment Advisory Team also undertake a programme of clinical audits and assessment observations.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials monitor and manage the Personal Independence Payment (PIP) assessment provider’s (Capita) assessment process.
A monthly Independent Customer Satisfaction Survey is undertaken.
The Department’s Health Assessment Advisory Team also undertake a programme of clinical audits and assessment observations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203960%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=382826","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=382826"}},{"id":"381803","reference":"AQW 3862/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 1467/22-27, to detail what feedback he has had from the domiciliary care sector regarding the recent increase in secondary rate mileage.","answerText":"Whilst there has been no formal feedback received to date, I am aware that increased fuel costs remain a concern across the region.\n\nStaff may access the secondary rate once they have exceeded the 3,500 mile threshold, which will not be the case for all domiciliary care workers. I have been advised that this secondary rate has been welcomed and gone some way in stabilising services.\n\nWith the lack of a current Executive budget, any decision I make to commit further funding is at risk. I fully appreciate that staff employed within HSC may feel that all mileage allowances should be increased, however I took the decision to target an intervention at those who travel the most frequently and who are often the lowest paid.\n\nAs you are aware, these mileage rates do not apply to staff employed in the independent sector, where mileage rates are set at individual providers’ discretion. Trusts are in regular contact with representatives from Domiciliary Care Independent Sector Providers, where providers have the opportunity to highlight pressures on service delivery.\n\nIndependent sector providers continue to raise the impact that fuel costs are having on the ability to maintain existing staffing levels, as well on the recruitment of additional staff to the workforce.\n\nI recognise that the domiciliary care sector continues to face significant difficulties. My officials continue to engage with Trusts and the sector on ongoing challenges, including those arising from travel and the cost of living. However, given the financial pressures and budgetary uncertainty, there is limited room for manoeuvre in terms of additional funding","answerHtml":"Whilst there has been no formal feedback received to date, I am aware that increased fuel costs remain a concern across the region.
Staff may access the secondary rate once they have exceeded the 3,500 mile threshold, which will not be the case for all domiciliary care workers. I have been advised that this secondary rate has been welcomed and gone some way in stabilising services.
With the lack of a current Executive budget, any decision I make to commit further funding is at risk. I fully appreciate that staff employed within HSC may feel that all mileage allowances should be increased, however I took the decision to target an intervention at those who travel the most frequently and who are often the lowest paid.
As you are aware, these mileage rates do not apply to staff employed in the independent sector, where mileage rates are set at individual providers’ discretion. Trusts are in regular contact with representatives from Domiciliary Care Independent Sector Providers, where providers have the opportunity to highlight pressures on service delivery.
Independent sector providers continue to raise the impact that fuel costs are having on the ability to maintain existing staffing levels, as well on the recruitment of additional staff to the workforce.
I recognise that the domiciliary care sector continues to face significant difficulties. My officials continue to engage with Trusts and the sector on ongoing challenges, including those arising from travel and the cost of living. However, given the financial pressures and budgetary uncertainty, there is limited room for manoeuvre in terms of additional funding
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203862%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381803"}},{"id":"381802","reference":"AQW 3861/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2024-05-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what plans she has to liaise with the Minister for the Economy, prior to the Open golf tournament in Portrush in 2025, with a view to limiting the number of local people evicted from long-term rental properties by landlords wishing to take advantage of short-term lets during the tournament.","answerText":"I am aware that short term lets can impact on the availability and affordability of properties for longer term rent by individuals and families.\n\nI plan to meet the Minister for Infrastructure in the near future about my Housing Supply Strategy. One of the issues that I will raise with him during this discussion will be if and how Councils may be given the power to restrict the volume of short term lets via their planning responsibilities, particularly in areas of high housing need and demand.\n\nI am also undertaking work to improve security of tenure for households in the private rented sector by introducing much longer notice to quit periods. The requirement to provide these longer notice periods should also act as a disincentive for landlords to switch between long term and short term lets in the circumstances you describe.\n\nThe Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 specifies that regulations on exceptions must be in place before these longer notice periods can come into operation. I anticipate these regulations will be ready for consultation in late Summer and, subject to a positive response, will be in place by the end of the year.","answerHtml":"I am aware that short term lets can impact on the availability and affordability of properties for longer term rent by individuals and families.
I plan to meet the Minister for Infrastructure in the near future about my Housing Supply Strategy. One of the issues that I will raise with him during this discussion will be if and how Councils may be given the power to restrict the volume of short term lets via their planning responsibilities, particularly in areas of high housing need and demand.
I am also undertaking work to improve security of tenure for households in the private rented sector by introducing much longer notice to quit periods. The requirement to provide these longer notice periods should also act as a disincentive for landlords to switch between long term and short term lets in the circumstances you describe.
The Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 specifies that regulations on exceptions must be in place before these longer notice periods can come into operation. I anticipate these regulations will be ready for consultation in late Summer and, subject to a positive response, will be in place by the end of the year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203861%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381802"}},{"id":"381801","reference":"AQW 3860/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what plans he has to introduce cancer prehabilitation programmes into all Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"There is a growing evidence base to suggest that prehabilitation (i.e. multiprofessional interventions ahead of treatment) can lead to reduced length of stay, reduced complications of treatment, improved patient experience and outcomes over the long-term. The commissioning of prehabilitation services across the region is a priority and as such is identified as a key action within the Cancer Strategy (Action 17).\n\nWhile there have been no prehabilitation services commissioned to date, there are a number of pilots ongoing at trust level.\n\nAs part of strategy implementation, Macmillan Cancer Support is supporting the development of a new post within the Northern Ireland Cancer Network, the Regional Patient Pathway Integration Lead (currently recruiting – hope to have in post by the new year). Macmillan has also invested in prehabilitation leads in each trust (all to be in post by the new year). These posts will work with the regional lead to engage with stakeholders, including patients, to shape the development of prehabilitation services in Northern Ireland. The regional lead will:\n\nscope current trust pilots to understand what is currently available and to identify the regional learning;\n\nto work across the professional groups to agree the appropriate model for provision in Northern Ireland and to understand how this might be prioritised and phased; and\n\nto develop a clear understanding of the what is required to support the development of regional prehabilitation services in terms of pathway development, changes to current working practices, governance, workforce and funding.\n\nThis work will allow wider engagement on the issue and importantly will provide a roadmap and plan for the delivery of services within Northern Ireland. That plan will allow us to understand what opportunities there may be to provide services within existing resources and to inform how we might prioritise future funding that may be made available to support strategy implementation.","answerHtml":"There is a growing evidence base to suggest that prehabilitation (i.e. multiprofessional interventions ahead of treatment) can lead to reduced length of stay, reduced complications of treatment, improved patient experience and outcomes over the long-term. The commissioning of prehabilitation services across the region is a priority and as such is identified as a key action within the Cancer Strategy (Action 17).
While there have been no prehabilitation services commissioned to date, there are a number of pilots ongoing at trust level.
As part of strategy implementation, Macmillan Cancer Support is supporting the development of a new post within the Northern Ireland Cancer Network, the Regional Patient Pathway Integration Lead (currently recruiting – hope to have in post by the new year). Macmillan has also invested in prehabilitation leads in each trust (all to be in post by the new year). These posts will work with the regional lead to engage with stakeholders, including patients, to shape the development of prehabilitation services in Northern Ireland. The regional lead will:
scope current trust pilots to understand what is currently available and to identify the regional learning;
to work across the professional groups to agree the appropriate model for provision in Northern Ireland and to understand how this might be prioritised and phased; and
to develop a clear understanding of the what is required to support the development of regional prehabilitation services in terms of pathway development, changes to current working practices, governance, workforce and funding.
This work will allow wider engagement on the issue and importantly will provide a roadmap and plan for the delivery of services within Northern Ireland. That plan will allow us to understand what opportunities there may be to provide services within existing resources and to inform how we might prioritise future funding that may be made available to support strategy implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203860%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381801","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381801"}},{"id":"381800","reference":"AQW 3859/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 1151/22-27, for an update on the Public Health Agency’s urgent formal review of the pathway to remobilise adult day-care, short breaks and transport services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203859%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381800"}},{"id":"381799","reference":"AQW 3858/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-30","answerBy":"2022-10-17","answered":"2022-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) foster carer allowance rates in Northern Ireland, when compared to those in other parts of the UK and with reference to the current cost of living crisis; and (ii) how these rates are affecting the number of (a) new; and (b) continuing foster carers.","answerText":"(i) An uplift to foster care allowances in Northern Ireland was applied in August 2022, aimed at closing the gap between rates payable in Northern Ireland and comparable rates in other parts of the UK. This resulted in an increase of approximately 3 per cent on 2021/22 rates, backdated to 1 April 2022. This brings allowances in Northern Ireland in line with national minimum allowances rates payable in areas of England outside London and the South East.\n\nIn addition to basic allowances, foster carers also receive additional allowances, such as for birthdays, Christmas, holidays and outings. These other allowances have also been uplifted in line with the increases applied to the basic rates.\n\nI recognise that foster carers, like all families, will be experiencing increases in the cost of living. Regrettably, my Department is facing a significant financial shortfall and the uplifts applied to foster care allowances in 2022/23 represent what is affordable within these significant financial constraints.\n\n(ii) There are approximately 2,800 foster carers in Northern Ireland, providing much needed care and support to the vast majority of children in care. At a time when we have more children in care than ever before, it is vital that new carers are encouraged to come forward, and that those currently caring for a child are supported to continue in their role. In 2021/22, the regional Fostering and Adoption service received 652 enquiries from prospective foster carers, an increase of 2.5% on the previous year. In addition, more than 500 enquiries were prompted by a recent campaign seeking carers and hosts for refugee children and young people.\n\nDuring my time as Health Minister I have supported a number of recruitment campaigns to encourage new carers to come forward and have provided additional financial support to help foster carers meet the challenges of the pandemic and sustain foster placements. The foster carers I meet are clear that financial rewards are not their primary motivation, and it is important to recognise that a range of other factors—such as the support provided by social workers and being seen as a valued member of the team around the child—are also essential in promoting and sustaining foster care. Nevertheless, I understand that rises in the cost of living will cause additional challenges for many. My Department is continuing to engage with foster carers and their representatives—including through the ongoing Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services—about their experiences, but I regret that within the current budget constraints it is not possible to provide additional financial support at this time. I will, of course, keep this under review.","answerHtml":"(i) An uplift to foster care allowances in Northern Ireland was applied in August 2022, aimed at closing the gap between rates payable in Northern Ireland and comparable rates in other parts of the UK. This resulted in an increase of approximately 3 per cent on 2021/22 rates, backdated to 1 April 2022. This brings allowances in Northern Ireland in line with national minimum allowances rates payable in areas of England outside London and the South East.
In addition to basic allowances, foster carers also receive additional allowances, such as for birthdays, Christmas, holidays and outings. These other allowances have also been uplifted in line with the increases applied to the basic rates.
I recognise that foster carers, like all families, will be experiencing increases in the cost of living. Regrettably, my Department is facing a significant financial shortfall and the uplifts applied to foster care allowances in 2022/23 represent what is affordable within these significant financial constraints.
(ii) There are approximately 2,800 foster carers in Northern Ireland, providing much needed care and support to the vast majority of children in care. At a time when we have more children in care than ever before, it is vital that new carers are encouraged to come forward, and that those currently caring for a child are supported to continue in their role. In 2021/22, the regional Fostering and Adoption service received 652 enquiries from prospective foster carers, an increase of 2.5% on the previous year. In addition, more than 500 enquiries were prompted by a recent campaign seeking carers and hosts for refugee children and young people.
During my time as Health Minister I have supported a number of recruitment campaigns to encourage new carers to come forward and have provided additional financial support to help foster carers meet the challenges of the pandemic and sustain foster placements. The foster carers I meet are clear that financial rewards are not their primary motivation, and it is important to recognise that a range of other factors—such as the support provided by social workers and being seen as a valued member of the team around the child—are also essential in promoting and sustaining foster care. Nevertheless, I understand that rises in the cost of living will cause additional challenges for many. My Department is continuing to engage with foster carers and their representatives—including through the ongoing Independent Review of Children’s Social Care Services—about their experiences, but I regret that within the current budget constraints it is not possible to provide additional financial support at this time. I will, of course, keep this under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203858%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381799","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381799"}},{"id":"381709","reference":"AQW 3808/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-29","answerBy":"2022-10-14","answered":"2022-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the capacity level that respite and daycare services for learning disabled adults are operating at, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Information regarding service provision is currently being collected by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) to support the remobilisation of services. The current capacity levels regarding respite and day care services are not available broken down by constituency, however the Learning Disability data on the DoH website provides information regarding current service provision/capacity levels in terms of daycare and respite/short breaks per Trust.\n\nAs of May 2022, the Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) receive fortnightly updates from each Trust on progress towards the full remobilisation of adult day care, respite/short breaks and transport. Data across all relevant Programmes of Care is collated by SPPG to assist with the development of a regional consistent approach. Data is baselined against service provision in February 2020, which is defined as pre-pandemic capacity. Data across all Programmes of Care is analysed with the data for Learning Disability currently being published monthly on the Department of Health website as noted below:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services\n\nThere is a continued focus within Trusts to remobilise day care services, however there is a cohort of service users still not receiving adult day care or receiving a partial service. It is regretable that services have not yet been fully restored to pre pandemic levels and I sincerely apologise to those individuals, families and carers. Service remobilisation will continue to be an area of focus.\n\nA percentage of service users and carers have chosen not to return to day care for a variety of reasons. Trusts continue to engage with those service users who have chosen not to do this to ensure their needs continue to be met through alternative service pathways, such as day opportunities whilst advising that the option of day care remains available to them.\n\nAligned to this process, SPPG engage in performance meetings with Trusts to discuss any noted barriers to full day care, respite/short break service remobilisation and to agree mitigating actions to support continued progress towards full remobilisation. Furthermore, I have committed to issuing periodic communication to MLAs to outline the progress made by Trusts towards a return to full service remobilisation.","answerHtml":"Information regarding service provision is currently being collected by the Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) to support the remobilisation of services. The current capacity levels regarding respite and day care services are not available broken down by constituency, however the Learning Disability data on the DoH website provides information regarding current service provision/capacity levels in terms of daycare and respite/short breaks per Trust.
As of May 2022, the Department’s Strategic Planning and Performance Group (SPPG) receive fortnightly updates from each Trust on progress towards the full remobilisation of adult day care, respite/short breaks and transport. Data across all relevant Programmes of Care is collated by SPPG to assist with the development of a regional consistent approach. Data is baselined against service provision in February 2020, which is defined as pre-pandemic capacity. Data across all Programmes of Care is analysed with the data for Learning Disability currently being published monthly on the Department of Health website as noted below:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services
There is a continued focus within Trusts to remobilise day care services, however there is a cohort of service users still not receiving adult day care or receiving a partial service. It is regretable that services have not yet been fully restored to pre pandemic levels and I sincerely apologise to those individuals, families and carers. Service remobilisation will continue to be an area of focus.
A percentage of service users and carers have chosen not to return to day care for a variety of reasons. Trusts continue to engage with those service users who have chosen not to do this to ensure their needs continue to be met through alternative service pathways, such as day opportunities whilst advising that the option of day care remains available to them.
Aligned to this process, SPPG engage in performance meetings with Trusts to discuss any noted barriers to full day care, respite/short break service remobilisation and to agree mitigating actions to support continued progress towards full remobilisation. Furthermore, I have committed to issuing periodic communication to MLAs to outline the progress made by Trusts towards a return to full service remobilisation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203808%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381709"}},{"id":"381708","reference":"AQW 3807/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-29","answerBy":"2022-10-14","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the review of the Community Development element of the Community Support Programme; (ii) to outline the terms and conditions of the review; and (iii) to detail her plans and timeframe to progress this area of community and voluntary support.","answerText":"The review of the community development element of the Community Support Programme paused when Council and departmental officials were working with voluntary and community sector partners to deliver the community response to the pandemic.\n\nOfficials are now actively reviewing our evidence base, working with Councils to increase our understanding of Sectoral needs and consider new ways of working together, to inform the future delivery of support to the Sector through improved relationships and partnerships.","answerHtml":"The review of the community development element of the Community Support Programme paused when Council and departmental officials were working with voluntary and community sector partners to deliver the community response to the pandemic.
Officials are now actively reviewing our evidence base, working with Councils to increase our understanding of Sectoral needs and consider new ways of working together, to inform the future delivery of support to the Sector through improved relationships and partnerships.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203807%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381708"}},{"id":"381707","reference":"AQW 3806/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-29","answerBy":"2022-10-14","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for his assessment of how availing of the power to set corporation tax level could improve Northern Ireland's economic forecast.","answerText":"The Independent Fiscal Commission’s report published in May 2022 indicated that, in its view, there is value in completing the devolution of Corporation Tax, but that there are a range of issues that would first need to be agreed between a restored Executive and the British Government if this were to be pursued.\n\nThis would need to include an updating of previous estimates of both the potential costs and benefits of a devolved Corporation Tax policy for the North given that these are now extremely dated. And where the economic, political and global landscape has also changed greatly in recent years. Significant analysis would be required in this regard before any assessment of the economic impact could be made.\n\nIt will be for an incoming Finance Minister to bring recommendations on the Commission’s report to a restored Executive for its considerations on the full suite of devolved tax proposals, including Corporation Tax. These considerations will also be informed by the evidence gathered from the recent consultation I launched on the 4th October (www.finance-ni.gov.uk/consultations/devolution-fiscal-powers) on the devolution of fiscal powers.","answerHtml":"The Independent Fiscal Commission’s report published in May 2022 indicated that, in its view, there is value in completing the devolution of Corporation Tax, but that there are a range of issues that would first need to be agreed between a restored Executive and the British Government if this were to be pursued.
This would need to include an updating of previous estimates of both the potential costs and benefits of a devolved Corporation Tax policy for the North given that these are now extremely dated. And where the economic, political and global landscape has also changed greatly in recent years. Significant analysis would be required in this regard before any assessment of the economic impact could be made.
It will be for an incoming Finance Minister to bring recommendations on the Commission’s report to a restored Executive for its considerations on the full suite of devolved tax proposals, including Corporation Tax. These considerations will also be informed by the evidence gathered from the recent consultation I launched on the 4th October (www.finance-ni.gov.uk/consultations/devolution-fiscal-powers) on the devolution of fiscal powers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203806%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381707"}},{"id":"381706","reference":"AQW 3805/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-29","answerBy":"2022-10-14","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how the region plans to attract the level of large scale renewable energy projects that are needed to meet Northern Ireland’s Climate Act target of 80 per cent renewable electricity consumption by 2030.","answerText":"A crucial mechanism to meet the Climate Change (Northern Ireland) Act 2022 target of 80% renewable electricity consumption by 2030 will be establishing a support scheme to incentivise renewable electricity development in Northern Ireland.\n\nAs per the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022, my Department intends to consult on renewable electricity support mechanism options this year, with a view to delivery in 2023.","answerHtml":"A crucial mechanism to meet the Climate Change (Northern Ireland) Act 2022 target of 80% renewable electricity consumption by 2030 will be establishing a support scheme to incentivise renewable electricity development in Northern Ireland.
As per the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022, my Department intends to consult on renewable electricity support mechanism options this year, with a view to delivery in 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203805%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381706","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381706"}},{"id":"381705","reference":"AQW 3804/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-29","answerBy":"2022-10-14","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy considering the energy and cost of living crisis, how Northern Ireland will encourage the build-out of renewable energy required to increase indigenous energy generation and secure future energy independence and protection from volatile global markets.","answerText":"My Department is working towards a target of 80% renewable electricity consumption from a diverse range of renewable sources by 2030 to deliver clean, affordable, locally produced electricity for Northern Ireland.\n\nTo encourage sufficient investment to meet this target we will be establishing a support scheme to incentivise renewable electricity development in Northern Ireland.\n\nAs per the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022, my Department intends to consult on renewable electricity support mechanism options this year, with a view to delivery in 2023.","answerHtml":"My Department is working towards a target of 80% renewable electricity consumption from a diverse range of renewable sources by 2030 to deliver clean, affordable, locally produced electricity for Northern Ireland.
To encourage sufficient investment to meet this target we will be establishing a support scheme to incentivise renewable electricity development in Northern Ireland.
As per the Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022, my Department intends to consult on renewable electricity support mechanism options this year, with a view to delivery in 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203804%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381705"}},{"id":"381575","reference":"AQW 3713/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-28","answerBy":"2022-10-13","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the direct and knock-on effects of the cost of living crisis on rural communities; and (ii) to detail what plans he has to address the effects.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203713%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381575","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381575"}},{"id":"381574","reference":"AQW 3712/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-28","answerBy":"2022-10-13","answered":"2022-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the funding and support that has been provided by his Department to the Air Ambulance, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) service is provided by way of partnership between Air Ambulance NI (AANI) and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS). AANI is responsible for the non-medical running costs of the service, such as aircraft lease, pilots and airbase. NIAS provides the clinical support to the HEMS service.\n\nNIAS contribution to the HEMS service includes Medical and Paramedic staff and associated medical equipment and supplies. The service operates broadly 7 days a week, 365 days of the year during daylight hours and weather permitting. The costs are variable but the total is in the order of £1m per annum since 2017-18 to date.\n\nAANI is a charity that relies on fundraising to meet the running costs. Over the last 5 years Air Ambulance NI received direct funding of £1m from DOH as grant funding to support the service in 2020/21 during the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nIn addition, in 2016 AANI was successful in an application to HM Treasury for a start-up grant and received £4.49m (2016/17 £1.09m, 2017/18 £1.44m and 2018/19 £1.96m), this funding was received from HM Treasury and subsequently was issued to AANI from NIAS.","answerHtml":"The Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) service is provided by way of partnership between Air Ambulance NI (AANI) and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS). AANI is responsible for the non-medical running costs of the service, such as aircraft lease, pilots and airbase. NIAS provides the clinical support to the HEMS service.
NIAS contribution to the HEMS service includes Medical and Paramedic staff and associated medical equipment and supplies. The service operates broadly 7 days a week, 365 days of the year during daylight hours and weather permitting. The costs are variable but the total is in the order of £1m per annum since 2017-18 to date.
AANI is a charity that relies on fundraising to meet the running costs. Over the last 5 years Air Ambulance NI received direct funding of £1m from DOH as grant funding to support the service in 2020/21 during the Covid-19 pandemic.
In addition, in 2016 AANI was successful in an application to HM Treasury for a start-up grant and received £4.49m (2016/17 £1.09m, 2017/18 £1.44m and 2018/19 £1.96m), this funding was received from HM Treasury and subsequently was issued to AANI from NIAS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203712%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381574"}},{"id":"381573","reference":"AQW 3711/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-28","answerBy":"2022-10-13","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the size of the social housing waiting list in each constituency; and (ii) the estimated time the current waiting list in East Londonderry will take to clear, given the current level of investment, new builds and re-housing rates.","answerText":"The Housing Executive have provided the table below detailing the number of waiting list applicants by Parliamentary Constituency. Figures are as at the end of June 2022.\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tAll Applicants\nBelfast East\t2097\nBelfast East/South\t404\nBelfast North\t4383\nBelfast South\t2834\nBelfast South/Strangford\t124\nBelfast West\t3821\nBelfast West/North\t134\nBelfast West/South\t24\nEast Antrim\t1721\nEast Derry\t2534\nFermanagh South Tyrone\t1924\nFoyle\t4463\nLagan Valley\t1984\nMid Ulster\t1337\nNewry & Armagh\t2223\nNorth Antrim\t2288\nNorth Down\t1887\nSouth Antrim\t1589\nSouth Down\t2123\nStrangford\t1642\nUpper Bann\t2777\nWest Tyrone\t1916\nGrand Total\t44229\n\nPlease note that where there are less than 10 applicants or allocations, they have been listed as <10 in compliance with Data Protection.\n\nIt is not possible to put a timeframe on the eradication of the social housing waiting list. The rate of progress in reducing numbers of households in housing stress will be determined by long term policy and investment.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive have provided the table below detailing the number of waiting list applicants by Parliamentary Constituency. Figures are as at the end of June 2022.
| Parliamentary Constituency | All Applicants |
| Belfast East | 2097 |
| Belfast East/South | 404 |
| Belfast North | 4383 |
| Belfast South | 2834 |
| Belfast South/Strangford | 124 |
| Belfast West | 3821 |
| Belfast West/North | 134 |
| Belfast West/South | 24 |
| East Antrim | 1721 |
| East Derry | 2534 |
| Fermanagh South Tyrone | 1924 |
| Foyle | 4463 |
| Lagan Valley | 1984 |
| Mid Ulster | 1337 |
| Newry & Armagh | 2223 |
| North Antrim | 2288 |
| North Down | 1887 |
| South Antrim | 1589 |
| South Down | 2123 |
| Strangford | 1642 |
| Upper Bann | 2777 |
| West Tyrone | 1916 |
| Grand Total | 44229 |
Please note that where there are less than 10 applicants or allocations, they have been listed as <10 in compliance with Data Protection.
It is not possible to put a timeframe on the eradication of the social housing waiting list. The rate of progress in reducing numbers of households in housing stress will be determined by long term policy and investment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203711%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381573","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381573"}},{"id":"381572","reference":"AQW 3710/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-28","answerBy":"2022-10-13","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what plans he has to provide funding or assistance to charities and councils that relied on the former Dogs Trust neutering scheme for the neutering of surrendered or stray dogs; and (ii) for his assessment of the knock-on effects of the cessation of this scheme.","answerText":"I am aware of the changes to the neutering scheme operated by Dogs Trust in Northern Ireland which follows similar changes made in the rest of the United Kingdom. I understand that the neutering voucher scheme in Northern Ireland has been re-focused to direct help to dogs in the rescue system. This re-focused scheme is being piloted for one year and reviewed by Dogs Trust.\n\nThe decision to change the scheme is a matter solely for Dogs Trust. My Department has no plans to provide funding or assistance to charities or councils for neutering dogs.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the changes to the neutering scheme operated by Dogs Trust in Northern Ireland which follows similar changes made in the rest of the United Kingdom. I understand that the neutering voucher scheme in Northern Ireland has been re-focused to direct help to dogs in the rescue system. This re-focused scheme is being piloted for one year and reviewed by Dogs Trust.
The decision to change the scheme is a matter solely for Dogs Trust. My Department has no plans to provide funding or assistance to charities or councils for neutering dogs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203710%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381572","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381572"}},{"id":"381571","reference":"AQW 3709/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-28","answerBy":"2022-10-13","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what plans she has to introduce or re-introduce domestic energy saving grant schemes and initiatives to help people use less oil, gas and electricity while keeping their homes warm.","answerText":"My Department continues to deliver energy efficiency grant schemes in partnership with the Housing Executive and Local Councils.\n\nThe Affordable Warmth Scheme targets low-income households in the owner-occupied and private rented sectors most at risk of fuel poverty. It includes multiple energy efficiency measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation, installation of gas or oil, boiler replacement, replacement windows and solid wall insulation.\n\nThe Boiler Replacement Scheme, open to owner-occupiers with an annual household income of less than £40,000, provides a grant of up to £1,000 towards the cost of replacing old and inefficient boilers over 15 years old.\n\nThe cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.\n\nMy Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to deliver energy efficiency grant schemes in partnership with the Housing Executive and Local Councils.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme targets low-income households in the owner-occupied and private rented sectors most at risk of fuel poverty. It includes multiple energy efficiency measures such as loft and cavity wall insulation, installation of gas or oil, boiler replacement, replacement windows and solid wall insulation.
The Boiler Replacement Scheme, open to owner-occupiers with an annual household income of less than £40,000, provides a grant of up to £1,000 towards the cost of replacing old and inefficient boilers over 15 years old.
The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.
I am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.
My Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203709%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381571"}},{"id":"381459","reference":"AQW 3632/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the steps he is taking to ensure adequate numbers of doctors and nurses within the NHS following the recent British Medical Association survey highlighting dissatisfaction within the workforce, in particular regarding the issue of pensions.","answerText":"My Department published the comprehensive Health and Social Care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for Our People in May 2018. The aim of the Strategy is that ‘by 2026, we meet our workforce needs and the needs of our workforce’.\n\nThe Strategy’s second action plan was published on 15th June 2022 to cover the period 2022/23 to 2024/25. The second action plan was developed collaboratively with stakeholders during 2021/22 and provides the strategic direction for the next three years to meet our workforce needs and the needs of our workforce through 32 identified actions and 94 associated outputs that focus upon the attraction, recruitment, training and retention of our workforce.\n\nIn this regard, I am pleased to report that, despite the current financial constraints facing my Department, I was able to secure in 2022/23 expansion in a number of medical specialty programmes delivered by NIMDTA. This included the Oncology, Radiology, Paediatric Cardiology, Vascular Surgery, Transplant Surgery, Palliative Medicine and Dermatology programmes.\n\nI was also able to increase the GP training programme this year by 10 places; building on continuing work to invest in our GP workforce which has seen the number of GPs trainees increase by over 70% from 2015 levels.\n\nIn addition, my Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands. This year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,335) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places. This includes the final 300 places, who are due to commence their studies in September 2022, of the additional 900 New Decade New Approach training places; the first cohort (300) of the additional 900 nurses are due to have completed their training and be available for use across HSC in June 2023\"\n\nWhile retention of staff is an intended outcome of the actions identified across the Strategy, the second action plan contains a specific action to develop and deliver retention initiatives that are tailored to the requirements of individual healthcare professions including doctors and nurses.\n\nOne issue which can impact doctors later in their career is pension tax charges and work is underway to introduce guidance for flexibilities which may help those who are negatively impacted.\n\nThere are currently a number of policy issues being considered regarding the impact of inflation rates and possible flexible retirement measures.","answerHtml":"My Department published the comprehensive Health and Social Care Workforce Strategy 2026: Delivering for Our People in May 2018. The aim of the Strategy is that ‘by 2026, we meet our workforce needs and the needs of our workforce’.
The Strategy’s second action plan was published on 15th June 2022 to cover the period 2022/23 to 2024/25. The second action plan was developed collaboratively with stakeholders during 2021/22 and provides the strategic direction for the next three years to meet our workforce needs and the needs of our workforce through 32 identified actions and 94 associated outputs that focus upon the attraction, recruitment, training and retention of our workforce.
In this regard, I am pleased to report that, despite the current financial constraints facing my Department, I was able to secure in 2022/23 expansion in a number of medical specialty programmes delivered by NIMDTA. This included the Oncology, Radiology, Paediatric Cardiology, Vascular Surgery, Transplant Surgery, Palliative Medicine and Dermatology programmes.
I was also able to increase the GP training programme this year by 10 places; building on continuing work to invest in our GP workforce which has seen the number of GPs trainees increase by over 70% from 2015 levels.
In addition, my Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands. This year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,335) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places. This includes the final 300 places, who are due to commence their studies in September 2022, of the additional 900 New Decade New Approach training places; the first cohort (300) of the additional 900 nurses are due to have completed their training and be available for use across HSC in June 2023"
While retention of staff is an intended outcome of the actions identified across the Strategy, the second action plan contains a specific action to develop and deliver retention initiatives that are tailored to the requirements of individual healthcare professions including doctors and nurses.
One issue which can impact doctors later in their career is pension tax charges and work is underway to introduce guidance for flexibilities which may help those who are negatively impacted.
There are currently a number of policy issues being considered regarding the impact of inflation rates and possible flexible retirement measures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203632%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381459","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381459"}},{"id":"381458","reference":"AQW 3631/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail what plans he has, or work he has done, to explore linking the redeveloped Ulster Canal with Lough Neagh and the Lower Bann.","answerText":"Waterways Ireland has North South Ministerial Council approval to explore the restoration of the Ulster Canal from Lough Erne to Clones and work is currently underway on that stretch of canal.\n\nThe restoration of the Ulster Canal from Clones to Lough Neagh remains a long-term goal and is an expressed commitment in both the Stormont House Agreement, A Fresh Start: The Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan and in the New Decade New Approach agreement.\n\nIn the absence of an Executive and the North South Ministerial Council there are no plans, at present, to restore the stretch of canal from Clones to Lough Neagh, this matter will be kept under review.","answerHtml":"Waterways Ireland has North South Ministerial Council approval to explore the restoration of the Ulster Canal from Lough Erne to Clones and work is currently underway on that stretch of canal.
The restoration of the Ulster Canal from Clones to Lough Neagh remains a long-term goal and is an expressed commitment in both the Stormont House Agreement, A Fresh Start: The Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan and in the New Decade New Approach agreement.
In the absence of an Executive and the North South Ministerial Council there are no plans, at present, to restore the stretch of canal from Clones to Lough Neagh, this matter will be kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203631%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381458","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381458"}},{"id":"381457","reference":"AQW 3630/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the average time taken for personal injury settlements to be made to victims, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The average time from issue to disposal for personal injury cases in the Kings Bench and County Court in each of the last five years are detailed in the tables below.\n\nKings Bench\n\n2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\nPersonal Injuries Cases\t967\t711\t859\t604\t861\nIssue to Disposal (weeks)\t173\t157\t149\t157\t169\n\nCounty Court\n\n2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\nPersonal Injuries Cases\t5,267\t4,897\t4,738\t1,946\t3,801\nIssue to Disposal (weeks)\t58\t56\t52\t53\t67\n\nThe information is taken from the Integrated Courts Operating System. Personal Injury Cases include Road Traffic Accidents, Negligence, Breach of Statutory Duty and Clinical Negligence. The average time between issue and disposal excludes Default Judgements and Office Disposals\n\nThe Northern Ireland Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme provides for the payment of compensation to, or in respect of, persons who have sustained criminal injury.\n\nEach claim for criminal injuries compensation is unique and often complex. In some instances, for example, significant medical information and other external information can be required to assess the application. The ability to process those applications is limited by the ability of organisations to return information in a timely way.\n\nThe following table provides details of the percentage of initial decisions and review decisions that were made within 24 months of an application to the scheme or a request for a review decision in each of the last five years.\n\nPercentage of initial decisions and review decisions made in each financial year that were made within 24 months of an application to the scheme or a request for a review decision\n2017/18\t86%\n2018/19\t84%\n2019/20\t87%\n2020/21\t84%\n2021/22\t74%\n\nWhen a decision is made on an application for criminal injuries compensation an applicant has up to 90 days to ask for the decision to be reviewed. If unhappy with the review decision, the claimant has up to a further 90 days to appeal the decision to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeals Panel for Northern Ireland (CICAPNI) which is independent of the Department of Justice. It is therefore not possible to provide details of the average time taken for an award to a claimant as that will depend on when a review is requested by an applicant and on processes within CICAPNI.","answerHtml":"The average time from issue to disposal for personal injury cases in the Kings Bench and County Court in each of the last five years are detailed in the tables below.
Kings Bench
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Personal Injuries Cases | 967 | 711 | 859 | 604 | 861 |
| Issue to Disposal (weeks) | 173 | 157 | 149 | 157 | 169 |
County Court
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Personal Injuries Cases | 5,267 | 4,897 | 4,738 | 1,946 | 3,801 |
| Issue to Disposal (weeks) | 58 | 56 | 52 | 53 | 67 |
The information is taken from the Integrated Courts Operating System. Personal Injury Cases include Road Traffic Accidents, Negligence, Breach of Statutory Duty and Clinical Negligence. The average time between issue and disposal excludes Default Judgements and Office Disposals
The Northern Ireland Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme provides for the payment of compensation to, or in respect of, persons who have sustained criminal injury.
Each claim for criminal injuries compensation is unique and often complex. In some instances, for example, significant medical information and other external information can be required to assess the application. The ability to process those applications is limited by the ability of organisations to return information in a timely way.
The following table provides details of the percentage of initial decisions and review decisions that were made within 24 months of an application to the scheme or a request for a review decision in each of the last five years.
| Percentage of initial decisions and review decisions made in each financial year that were made within 24 months of an application to the scheme or a request for a review decision | |
| 2017/18 | 86% |
| 2018/19 | 84% |
| 2019/20 | 87% |
| 2020/21 | 84% |
| 2021/22 | 74% |
When a decision is made on an application for criminal injuries compensation an applicant has up to 90 days to ask for the decision to be reviewed. If unhappy with the review decision, the claimant has up to a further 90 days to appeal the decision to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Appeals Panel for Northern Ireland (CICAPNI) which is independent of the Department of Justice. It is therefore not possible to provide details of the average time taken for an award to a claimant as that will depend on when a review is requested by an applicant and on processes within CICAPNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203630%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381457"}},{"id":"381456","reference":"AQW 3629/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what assurances he has been given that the Shared Prosperity Fund will comprehensively meet the gap in Northern Ireland’s business funding left by the cessation of EU funding sources, such as the European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund.","answerText":"No such assurances have been given in recent times. The Department of Finance (DoF) leads a cross-departmental Future Policy & Finance Workstream that provides input to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) on funding streams associated with the Levelling Up agenda, including the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF). With our support, DoF continues to press for a substantive role for the NI Executive in design and delivery of these funds.\n\nWe have continually repeated the message that activity currently funded by the European Social and Regional Development Funds should be prioritised under the SPF. NI Executive Ministers have also articulated that the SPF would be best delivered through local Departments, ensuring continuation of the success of these programmes.","answerHtml":"No such assurances have been given in recent times. The Department of Finance (DoF) leads a cross-departmental Future Policy & Finance Workstream that provides input to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) on funding streams associated with the Levelling Up agenda, including the Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF). With our support, DoF continues to press for a substantive role for the NI Executive in design and delivery of these funds.
We have continually repeated the message that activity currently funded by the European Social and Regional Development Funds should be prioritised under the SPF. NI Executive Ministers have also articulated that the SPF would be best delivered through local Departments, ensuring continuation of the success of these programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203629%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381456"}},{"id":"381455","reference":"AQW 3628/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-27","answerBy":"2022-10-12","answered":"2022-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of unoccupied Housing Executive properties, per constituency.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has provided the table below and it shows the number of unoccupied Housing Exec properties, as of 1/9/22, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency:\n\nConstituency\tActionable Voids\tNon-Actionable Voids\tTotals\nBELFAST EAST\t88\t148\t236\nBELFAST NORTH\t83\t197\t280\nBELFAST SOUTH\t51\t54\t105\nBELFAST WEST\t36\t25\t61\nEAST ANTRIM\t15\t102\t117\nEAST DERRY\t16\t16\t32\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t9\t11\t20\nFOYLE\t13\t51\t64\nLAGAN VALLEY\t60\t101\t161\nMID ULSTER\t16\t10\t26\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t10\t42\t52\nNORTH ANTRIM\t37\t37\t74\nNORTH DOWN\t13\t14\t27\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t23\t9\t32\nSOUTH DOWN\t15\t13\t28\nSTRANGFORD\t16\t20\t36\nUPPER BANN\t9\t60\t69\nWEST TYRONE\t8\t35\t43\n\n518\t945\t1463\n\n* Actionable voids are properties which are vacant while in the process of being allocated/awaiting change of tenancy repairs. These may also include properties deemed to be difficult to let.\n\nNon-Actionable voids are properties that are not immediately available for allocation and are held vacant for operational reasons i.e. decanting purposes (where they are being used to house a tenant on a temporary basis pending works to their home), planned maintenance schemes, and properties which have been identified for sale/transfer or have approval for demolition.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has provided the table below and it shows the number of unoccupied Housing Exec properties, as of 1/9/22, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency:
| Constituency | Actionable Voids | Non-Actionable Voids | Totals |
| BELFAST EAST | 88 | 148 | 236 |
| BELFAST NORTH | 83 | 197 | 280 |
| BELFAST SOUTH | 51 | 54 | 105 |
| BELFAST WEST | 36 | 25 | 61 |
| EAST ANTRIM | 15 | 102 | 117 |
| EAST DERRY | 16 | 16 | 32 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 9 | 11 | 20 |
| FOYLE | 13 | 51 | 64 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 60 | 101 | 161 |
| MID ULSTER | 16 | 10 | 26 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 10 | 42 | 52 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 37 | 37 | 74 |
| NORTH DOWN | 13 | 14 | 27 |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 23 | 9 | 32 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 15 | 13 | 28 |
| STRANGFORD | 16 | 20 | 36 |
| UPPER BANN | 9 | 60 | 69 |
| WEST TYRONE | 8 | 35 | 43 |
| 518 | 945 | 1463 |
* Actionable voids are properties which are vacant while in the process of being allocated/awaiting change of tenancy repairs. These may also include properties deemed to be difficult to let.
Non-Actionable voids are properties that are not immediately available for allocation and are held vacant for operational reasons i.e. decanting purposes (where they are being used to house a tenant on a temporary basis pending works to their home), planned maintenance schemes, and properties which have been identified for sale/transfer or have approval for demolition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203628%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381455","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381455"}},{"id":"381347","reference":"AQW 3552/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether she has plans to (i) offer free school meals to all children during the cost of living crisis; and (ii) support schools to offer or extend breakfast and after-school clubs.","answerText":"The Department is continuing to progress a review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The review is considering a wide range of options that include the provision of a universal free school meal for some/all year groups as well as raising the current income thresholds that apply to the eligibility criteria for applicants in receipt of Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. It is planned that a public consultation will commence later this year.\n\nThe Extended Schools programme budget is £9.1m per annum, which allows the most disadvantaged schools to provide a range of interventions and additional learning opportunities outside of the traditional school day. Many schools choose to offer breakfast and after-school clubs to pupils.\n\nThe budget is fully committed at present and there are no plans to expand the programme. Any decisions regarding funding of the programme in future years must be taken in the context of available resources.","answerHtml":"The Department is continuing to progress a review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The review is considering a wide range of options that include the provision of a universal free school meal for some/all year groups as well as raising the current income thresholds that apply to the eligibility criteria for applicants in receipt of Universal Credit, Working Tax Credit or Child Tax Credit. It is planned that a public consultation will commence later this year.
The Extended Schools programme budget is £9.1m per annum, which allows the most disadvantaged schools to provide a range of interventions and additional learning opportunities outside of the traditional school day. Many schools choose to offer breakfast and after-school clubs to pupils.
The budget is fully committed at present and there are no plans to expand the programme. Any decisions regarding funding of the programme in future years must be taken in the context of available resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203552%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381347"}},{"id":"381346","reference":"AQW 3551/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has plans to cancel or defer domestic and non-domestic rates to reduce living and business costs during the cost of living crisis.","answerText":"Given the ongoing absence of an Executive it is not legally possible for me to act unilaterality to take forward new legislation to cancel or formally defer rates bills for domestic or non-domestic ratepayers.\n\nSuch legislation would, as a minimum, require Executive agreement because these proposals could reduce the revenue that is required within central government budgets, or stop vital funding to Councils that rely upon rates as their primary source of income.","answerHtml":"Given the ongoing absence of an Executive it is not legally possible for me to act unilaterality to take forward new legislation to cancel or formally defer rates bills for domestic or non-domestic ratepayers.
Such legislation would, as a minimum, require Executive agreement because these proposals could reduce the revenue that is required within central government budgets, or stop vital funding to Councils that rely upon rates as their primary source of income.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203551%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381346"}},{"id":"381337","reference":"AQW 3542/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she plans to provide support to community and voluntary groups to support their local communities during the cost of living crisis.","answerText":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.\n\nI am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.\n\nMy Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.","answerHtml":"The cost-of-living crisis is having major impact, particularly on those who are already struggling financially.
I am deeply frustrated that the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget prevents additional measures being introduced.
My Department will do all it can to support those experiencing hardship, and all options are being explored to provide both immediate and medium to longer term interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203542%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381337","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381337"}},{"id":"381336","reference":"AQW 3541/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2024-09-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in addition to the current schemes available, to outline her plans to ensure social and private homes are properly insulated to reduce energy costs.","answerText":"Improving the energy efficiency of our homes is a vital part of addressing fuel poverty and carbon reduction. Cavity wall insulation is recognised as a cost-effective way to reduce home energy bills, improve thermal comfort, and contribute to lower carbon emissions.\n\nMy Officials are currently in the early stages of developing a new fuel poverty energy efficiency scheme that will aim to assist low-income owner occupiers and households in the private rented sector. This new scheme will align with the Energy and Green Growth Strategies, Climate Change Act and support the principles of the new Fuel Poverty Strategy. Insulation will be considered as a priority along with other energy efficiency and decarbonisation measures within the design of the new scheme.\n\nIn relation to social homes, the Housing Executive has provided the following input.\n\n“The Housing Executive acknowledges that the thermal performance of its stock is poor and believes that the answer to this is a Fabric First approach to energy efficiency that focuses on better insulating its homes.\n\nAt present NIHE are addressing the insulation of stock in a number of ways:\n\nUpgrading loft insulation in tandem with replacement of heating systems\n\nNIHE have just completed an external wall insulation (EWI) programme for 1,400 of its non-traditionally constructed properties via the Energy Efficiency in Social Housing programme that was part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, and are following this with a small EWI programme as funding permits\n\nDeveloped an initial cavity wall insulation (CWI) remediation/replacement programme of some 9,000 dwellings that will be delivered over the next three years in a drive to address instances where the condition of the CWI is having a detrimental impact on the structure of a property.\n\nThe first schemes in NIHE’s innovative 300 Low Carbon Retrofit Programme have recently started on site and will involve the installation of new CWI along with other energy efficiency measures in some 300-400 homes in a number of locations across Northern Ireland by the end of 2024/25.","answerHtml":"Improving the energy efficiency of our homes is a vital part of addressing fuel poverty and carbon reduction. Cavity wall insulation is recognised as a cost-effective way to reduce home energy bills, improve thermal comfort, and contribute to lower carbon emissions.
My Officials are currently in the early stages of developing a new fuel poverty energy efficiency scheme that will aim to assist low-income owner occupiers and households in the private rented sector. This new scheme will align with the Energy and Green Growth Strategies, Climate Change Act and support the principles of the new Fuel Poverty Strategy. Insulation will be considered as a priority along with other energy efficiency and decarbonisation measures within the design of the new scheme.
In relation to social homes, the Housing Executive has provided the following input.
“The Housing Executive acknowledges that the thermal performance of its stock is poor and believes that the answer to this is a Fabric First approach to energy efficiency that focuses on better insulating its homes.
At present NIHE are addressing the insulation of stock in a number of ways:
Upgrading loft insulation in tandem with replacement of heating systems
NIHE have just completed an external wall insulation (EWI) programme for 1,400 of its non-traditionally constructed properties via the Energy Efficiency in Social Housing programme that was part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund, and are following this with a small EWI programme as funding permits
Developed an initial cavity wall insulation (CWI) remediation/replacement programme of some 9,000 dwellings that will be delivered over the next three years in a drive to address instances where the condition of the CWI is having a detrimental impact on the structure of a property.
The first schemes in NIHE’s innovative 300 Low Carbon Retrofit Programme have recently started on site and will involve the installation of new CWI along with other energy efficiency measures in some 300-400 homes in a number of locations across Northern Ireland by the end of 2024/25.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203541%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381336","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381336"}},{"id":"381335","reference":"AQW 3540/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-26","answerBy":"2022-10-11","answered":"2022-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline services which are offered at Treatment Rooms in Primary Care practices; (ii) whether each service has been additionally resourced; and (iii) what feedback he has received from primary care practitioners about Treatment Room services.","answerText":"(i) While some practices manage their own treatment room the majority of treatment rooms are managed and supported by local Trusts.\n\nTreatment rooms across Northern Ireland offer a range of service to the GP practices and patients locally. In general Treatment rooms may provide some phlebotomy, urine testing, ECGs, wound management/dressing. Some will carry out base line observations such as blood pressure readings. Some might assist with immunisation (children and adult) and near patient testing for INR monitoring. Some support GPs with minor surgery. All would be trained and supportive to manage a cardiac arrest scenario with basic life support.\n\nPractices may employ their own health care assistant (HCA), Practice Nurses (PN), Advanced Nurse Practitioners to compliment the treatment room service. Often practice employed HCAs and PNs will be involved in the monitoring and management of patients with known chronic disease (Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Asthma, COPD etc as well as ensure safe monitoring more complex medication such as Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDS) and Warfarin.\n\n(ii) Treatment Rooms are not resourced for individual services provided, but rather for the full range of services to patients. Treatment Rooms are resourced by local Trusts.\n\n(iii) GP Practices value their nursing and Health Care Assistant colleagues within Treatment rooms. However, in some localities across the region, practices have reported difficulty with access to Treatment Rooms for their patients. Some practices have also reported that complex dressings from secondary care can take up significant time in Trust treatment rooms impacting on primary care access.","answerHtml":"(i) While some practices manage their own treatment room the majority of treatment rooms are managed and supported by local Trusts.
Treatment rooms across Northern Ireland offer a range of service to the GP practices and patients locally. In general Treatment rooms may provide some phlebotomy, urine testing, ECGs, wound management/dressing. Some will carry out base line observations such as blood pressure readings. Some might assist with immunisation (children and adult) and near patient testing for INR monitoring. Some support GPs with minor surgery. All would be trained and supportive to manage a cardiac arrest scenario with basic life support.
Practices may employ their own health care assistant (HCA), Practice Nurses (PN), Advanced Nurse Practitioners to compliment the treatment room service. Often practice employed HCAs and PNs will be involved in the monitoring and management of patients with known chronic disease (Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease, Asthma, COPD etc as well as ensure safe monitoring more complex medication such as Disease Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDS) and Warfarin.
(ii) Treatment Rooms are not resourced for individual services provided, but rather for the full range of services to patients. Treatment Rooms are resourced by local Trusts.
(iii) GP Practices value their nursing and Health Care Assistant colleagues within Treatment rooms. However, in some localities across the region, practices have reported difficulty with access to Treatment Rooms for their patients. Some practices have also reported that complex dressings from secondary care can take up significant time in Trust treatment rooms impacting on primary care access.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203540%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381335"}},{"id":"381246","reference":"AQW 3473/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-23","answerBy":"2022-10-10","answered":"2022-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) how many GP surgeries are at risk of closing across Northern Ireland; (ii) the reasons why GP surgeries are at risk of closure; and (iii) the impact for patients if a GP surgery closes.","answerText":"As at 30 September 2022, 16 GPs surgeries are considered as being at risk of closure across Northern Ireland. Reasons as to why this may be the case vary but include staffing difficulties, workload pressures and issues with the fabric/size of premises. I recognise that any closure of a GP surgery is concerning for patients and potentially places additional pressures on neighbouring surgeries.\n\nI am committed to continuing to work to address the pressures facing GP practices. On 26th September, I announced a £5.5m package of support for GPs. This package provides targeted help to parts of the service that are most under pressure by investing £1m in a new Attract, Recruit, Retain scheme to help attract GPs in hard-to-recruit areas. It also boosts the support team for GP practices who are experiencing difficulty by an additional £680k. In addition, it also includes investment of £3m to support practices across Northern Ireland through the winter period, giving them the capacity to provide additional in-hours sessions to help meet heightened demand through the winter; up to £800k additional investment in Out of Hours services; and a commitment to progress work to address the issue of GP indemnity.\n\nI recognise that being able to access GP services is very important for people across Northern Ireland. My Department has therefore convened a working group to explore issues around access to services, including how technology can be better used to provide improved access for patients. An initial report from the group is anticipated in the autumn.","answerHtml":"As at 30 September 2022, 16 GPs surgeries are considered as being at risk of closure across Northern Ireland. Reasons as to why this may be the case vary but include staffing difficulties, workload pressures and issues with the fabric/size of premises. I recognise that any closure of a GP surgery is concerning for patients and potentially places additional pressures on neighbouring surgeries.
I am committed to continuing to work to address the pressures facing GP practices. On 26th September, I announced a £5.5m package of support for GPs. This package provides targeted help to parts of the service that are most under pressure by investing £1m in a new Attract, Recruit, Retain scheme to help attract GPs in hard-to-recruit areas. It also boosts the support team for GP practices who are experiencing difficulty by an additional £680k. In addition, it also includes investment of £3m to support practices across Northern Ireland through the winter period, giving them the capacity to provide additional in-hours sessions to help meet heightened demand through the winter; up to £800k additional investment in Out of Hours services; and a commitment to progress work to address the issue of GP indemnity.
I recognise that being able to access GP services is very important for people across Northern Ireland. My Department has therefore convened a working group to explore issues around access to services, including how technology can be better used to provide improved access for patients. An initial report from the group is anticipated in the autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203473%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381246","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381246"}},{"id":"381245","reference":"AQW 3472/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-23","answerBy":"2022-10-10","answered":"2022-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether all Multi-Disciplinary Teams across Northern Ireland include a social worker; and (ii) to outline reasons why some Multi-Disciplinary Teams do not have a social worker.","answerText":"To date, 68 practices have a Social worker (Band 7). This equates to 53.1% of practices within the current MDT footprint.\n\nFurther roll-out of the MDT model is subject to available funding to support the delivery of the service.","answerHtml":"To date, 68 practices have a Social worker (Band 7). This equates to 53.1% of practices within the current MDT footprint.
Further roll-out of the MDT model is subject to available funding to support the delivery of the service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203472%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381245"}},{"id":"381244","reference":"AQW 3471/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-23","answerBy":"2022-10-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline reasons why pathology result wait times have, on average, increased; (ii) for his assessment of the impact of longer wait times; and (iii) what action he is taking to reduce these times.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203471%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381244"}},{"id":"381243","reference":"AQW 3470/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-23","answerBy":"2022-10-10","answered":"2022-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has plans to introduce e-prescribing in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department continues to lead on a programme of work which is considering options for the replacement of the current written prescription system with an electronic prescribing system. Work is underway to identify and implement a suitable IT solution to progress this programme of work including ongoing engagement with the NHS in England over the potential use of their Electronic Prescribing Technology solution for the HSC in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department continues to operate under significant budgetary and financial constraints at the present time however I remain hopeful that implementation of this project will be able to proceed, once a suitable IT solution can be identified and funding secured.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to lead on a programme of work which is considering options for the replacement of the current written prescription system with an electronic prescribing system. Work is underway to identify and implement a suitable IT solution to progress this programme of work including ongoing engagement with the NHS in England over the potential use of their Electronic Prescribing Technology solution for the HSC in Northern Ireland.
My Department continues to operate under significant budgetary and financial constraints at the present time however I remain hopeful that implementation of this project will be able to proceed, once a suitable IT solution can be identified and funding secured.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203470%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381243"}},{"id":"381242","reference":"AQW 3469/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-23","answerBy":"2022-10-10","answered":"2022-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his review into General Practitioner pensions and the ability to opt out of such schemes.","answerText":"As with all HSC Pension Scheme members, General Practitioners have the ability to opt out of the scheme at any point.","answerHtml":"As with all HSC Pension Scheme members, General Practitioners have the ability to opt out of the scheme at any point.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203469%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=381242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=381242"}},{"id":"380990","reference":"AQW 3324/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what consideration he has given to making it mandatory for all new-build houses to include renewable energy sources, such as solar panels.","answerText":"An interim uplift of the Department’s Technical Booklet guidance to Part F (Conservation of fuel and power) of the Building Regulations was published in March 2022.\n\nThis uplift supports regulation 43B (Nearly zero-energy requirements for new buildings) and has been carefully set so that on-site renewables, such as solar panels, are expected to form a key component of new houses subject to a building regulations application made from 30th June 2022.","answerHtml":"An interim uplift of the Department’s Technical Booklet guidance to Part F (Conservation of fuel and power) of the Building Regulations was published in March 2022.
This uplift supports regulation 43B (Nearly zero-energy requirements for new buildings) and has been carefully set so that on-site renewables, such as solar panels, are expected to form a key component of new houses subject to a building regulations application made from 30th June 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203324%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380990"}},{"id":"380989","reference":"AQW 3323/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people newly registered as homeless, per constituency, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The most recent official statistics relating to homelessness were published on 15 September 2022;\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/communities/ni-homelessness-bulletin-jan-june-2022.pdf\n\nHomelessness figures presented in this report can be read in conjunction with those published in the quarterly Housing Bulletins which can be found at; https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/topics/housing-statistics","answerHtml":"The most recent official statistics relating to homelessness were published on 15 September 2022;
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/system/files/publications/communities/ni-homelessness-bulletin-jan-june-2022.pdf
Homelessness figures presented in this report can be read in conjunction with those published in the quarterly Housing Bulletins which can be found at; https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/topics/housing-statistics
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203323%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380989"}},{"id":"380988","reference":"AQW 3322/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail what conversations he has had with the Westminster government regarding the potential for future windfall taxes on companies that have recorded an increase in profits as a result of rising food and energy prices.","answerText":"I have been urging the Treasury to implement a windfall tax on energy companies to help fund interventions to support vulnerable households and small businesses for some time. I re-iterated this point directly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury when I met him just after the British Government’s fiscal event on 23rd September, and where I followed up in writing on this on 27th September. This also followed an unheeded joint letter that I, along with my Scottish and Welsh counterparts, sent to the Chancellor shortly after he was appointed calling for a windfall tax.\n\nMore action is clearly needed to support both businesses and households through this cost of living crisis and I believe that this this should be funded in part by capturing the excess profits from the energy sector rather than passing the cost on to hard-pressed workers and businesses through higher borrowing. I will continue to press the British Government on this.","answerHtml":"I have been urging the Treasury to implement a windfall tax on energy companies to help fund interventions to support vulnerable households and small businesses for some time. I re-iterated this point directly to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury when I met him just after the British Government’s fiscal event on 23rd September, and where I followed up in writing on this on 27th September. This also followed an unheeded joint letter that I, along with my Scottish and Welsh counterparts, sent to the Chancellor shortly after he was appointed calling for a windfall tax.
More action is clearly needed to support both businesses and households through this cost of living crisis and I believe that this this should be funded in part by capturing the excess profits from the energy sector rather than passing the cost on to hard-pressed workers and businesses through higher borrowing. I will continue to press the British Government on this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203322%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380988"}},{"id":"380987","reference":"AQW 3321/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-21","answerBy":"2022-10-06","answered":"2022-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people who called the Make the Call Service helpline, broken down by month, in the last five years.","answerText":"The earliest data available for calls made to the Make the Call Service helpline is from November 2017.\n\nFrom November 2017 to August 2022, Make the Call Service received 232,501 calls on the freephone advice line number. A breakdown by month is included in the tables below.\n\n2017/18\tCalls Received\t\t2018/19\tCalls Received\t\t2019/20\tCalls Received\nApr-17\t-\t\tApr-18\t3,765\t\tApr-19\t3,339\nMay-17\t-\t\tMay-18\t3,911\t\tMay-19\t3,194\nJun-17\t-\t\tJun-18\t4,703\t\tJun-19\t3,541\nJul-17\t-\t\tJul-18\t4,045\t\tJul-19\t3,451\nAug-17\t-\t\tAug-18\t3,953\t\tAug-19\t3,240\nSep-17\t-\t\tSep-18\t3,335\t\tSep-19\t3,662\nOct-17\t-\t\tOct-18\t4,367\t\tOct-19\t3,850\nNov-17\t1,166\t\tNov-18\t3,808\t\tNov-19\t3,942\nDec-17\t2,325\t\tDec-18\t2,083\t\tDec-19\t2,779\nJan-18\t4,668\t\tJan-19\t5,992\t\tJan-20\t4,124\nFeb-18\t4,424\t\tFeb-19\t4,482\t\tFeb-20\t4,328\nMar-18\t3,804\t\tMar-19\t3,464\t\tMar-20\t6,866\nTOTAL\t16,387\t\tTOTAL\t47,908\t\tTOTAL\t46,316\n\n2020/21\tCalls Received\t\t2021/22\tCalls Received\t\t2022/23\tCalls Received\nApr-20\t2,711\t\tApr-21\t3,463\t\tApr-22\t4,114\nMay-20\t2,508\t\tMay-21\t3,501\t\tMay-22\t5,155\nJun-20\t3,334\t\tJun-21\t4,979\t\tJun-22\t5,375\nJul-20\t3,128\t\tJul-21\t3,282\t\tJul-22\t4,927\nAug-20\t3,117\t\tAug-21\t3,498\t\tAug-22\t5,589\nSep-20\t3,775\t\tSep-21\t4,136\t\tSep-22\nOct-20\t4,915\t\tOct-21\t4,650\t\tOct-22\nNov-20\t4,110\t\tNov-21\t4,057\t\tNov-22\nDec-20\t3,094\t\tDec-21\t2,869\t\tDec-22\nJan-21\t4,522\t\tJan-22\t4,650\t\tJan-23\nFeb-21\t5,677\t\tFeb-22\t5,501\t\tFeb-23\nMar-21\t4,609\t\tMar-22\t6,644\t\tMar-23\nTOTAL\t45,500\t\tTOTAL\t51,230\t\tTOTAL\t25,160","answerHtml":"The earliest data available for calls made to the Make the Call Service helpline is from November 2017.
From November 2017 to August 2022, Make the Call Service received 232,501 calls on the freephone advice line number. A breakdown by month is included in the tables below.
| 2017/18 | Calls Received | 2018/19 | Calls Received | 2019/20 | Calls Received | ||
| Apr-17 | - | Apr-18 | 3,765 | Apr-19 | 3,339 | ||
| May-17 | - | May-18 | 3,911 | May-19 | 3,194 | ||
| Jun-17 | - | Jun-18 | 4,703 | Jun-19 | 3,541 | ||
| Jul-17 | - | Jul-18 | 4,045 | Jul-19 | 3,451 | ||
| Aug-17 | - | Aug-18 | 3,953 | Aug-19 | 3,240 | ||
| Sep-17 | - | Sep-18 | 3,335 | Sep-19 | 3,662 | ||
| Oct-17 | - | Oct-18 | 4,367 | Oct-19 | 3,850 | ||
| Nov-17 | 1,166 | Nov-18 | 3,808 | Nov-19 | 3,942 | ||
| Dec-17 | 2,325 | Dec-18 | 2,083 | Dec-19 | 2,779 | ||
| Jan-18 | 4,668 | Jan-19 | 5,992 | Jan-20 | 4,124 | ||
| Feb-18 | 4,424 | Feb-19 | 4,482 | Feb-20 | 4,328 | ||
| Mar-18 | 3,804 | Mar-19 | 3,464 | Mar-20 | 6,866 | ||
| TOTAL | 16,387 | TOTAL | 47,908 | TOTAL | 46,316 |
| 2020/21 | Calls Received | 2021/22 | Calls Received | 2022/23 | Calls Received | ||
| Apr-20 | 2,711 | Apr-21 | 3,463 | Apr-22 | 4,114 | ||
| May-20 | 2,508 | May-21 | 3,501 | May-22 | 5,155 | ||
| Jun-20 | 3,334 | Jun-21 | 4,979 | Jun-22 | 5,375 | ||
| Jul-20 | 3,128 | Jul-21 | 3,282 | Jul-22 | 4,927 | ||
| Aug-20 | 3,117 | Aug-21 | 3,498 | Aug-22 | 5,589 | ||
| Sep-20 | 3,775 | Sep-21 | 4,136 | Sep-22 | |||
| Oct-20 | 4,915 | Oct-21 | 4,650 | Oct-22 | |||
| Nov-20 | 4,110 | Nov-21 | 4,057 | Nov-22 | |||
| Dec-20 | 3,094 | Dec-21 | 2,869 | Dec-22 | |||
| Jan-21 | 4,522 | Jan-22 | 4,650 | Jan-23 | |||
| Feb-21 | 5,677 | Feb-22 | 5,501 | Feb-23 | |||
| Mar-21 | 4,609 | Mar-22 | 6,644 | Mar-23 | |||
| TOTAL | 45,500 | TOTAL | 51,230 | TOTAL | 25,160 |
I have previously urged Treasury and the local banks to ensure that the repayment of debt, such as Bounce Back Loans, is managed carefully to ensure that those who relied on this finance during the pandemic are supported and treated fairly. It is also important for businesses who find themselves in the situation of not being able to make their repayments, to engage with their lender and discuss their particular circumstances and options.
However, this is a Reserved Matter, with the rules and regulations for Bounce Back Loans falling under the responsibility of the British Government, and any decision to grant repayment flexibility for Bounce Back Loans will ultimately be for them to make.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203320%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380986","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380986"}},{"id":"380815","reference":"AQW 3208/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-20","answerBy":"2022-10-05","answered":"2022-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of (i) his Department’s final survey on the effectiveness of the Spend Local Scheme; and (ii) the overall success of the scheme.","answerText":"The NISRA COVID-19 Opinion Survey helped inform the Department on how well the various aspects of the Scheme were performing whilst it was operating and the findings clearly demonstrate the positive experiences applicants had applying for their Spend Local card as well as the overall benefit to local businesses of spend on the cards throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThe full set of survey results can be found at Northern Ireland High Street Scheme Survey October 2021 to March 2022 Report\n\nThe High Street Scheme was a huge success injecting more than £136.5 million into the local economy, providing a much needed economic boost to our retail, hospitality and service sectors to help them recover from the devastating impact of the pandemic. Of this spend, £84.9m was spent in businesses required by Covid Regulations to close during 2020, providing a much needed boost to these businesses.\n\nThe Department commissioned an independent research report by Retail Economics to assess the perceived value of the Scheme during its operation and found that it was comprehensively welcomed by retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in NI and was seen as an effective way to stimulate the economy, restore consumer confidence and safeguard jobs. The report concluded that 80% of retail and hospitality businesses agreed that the Scheme helped support small independent businesses with the majority reporting that the Scheme had a positive or very positive impact on sales against their expectations for the time of year; 80% of small retailers thought that the Scheme encouraged spending that was otherwise unlikely to have occurred and two-thirds (66%) of small businesses thought that it was a good use of public money.\n\nThe Scheme was also well received by our local business representatives, with the Ulster Bank stating that the Scheme had undoubtedly contributed to the pick-up in demand after retail sales in Northern Ireland rose in November for the first time in four months. In addition, figures published by the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC) in December 2021 showed a boost to the number of people going into shops or businesses in October being continued in November following the introduction of the High Street Scheme. The Report demonstrated that Northern Ireland’s footfall in November increased by 5.6 percentage points on the previous month. Northern Ireland’s shop visits were 10 percentage points higher than the UK average.\n\nMy Department has commissioned a Post-Project Evaluation (PPE) of the Scheme. The PPE has commenced and will assess the extent to which the Scheme was successfully implemented, achieved its original objectives and provided an economic stimulus for the local economy taking into account the challenges of delivering a scheme of this scale within a very tight timeframe.","answerHtml":"The NISRA COVID-19 Opinion Survey helped inform the Department on how well the various aspects of the Scheme were performing whilst it was operating and the findings clearly demonstrate the positive experiences applicants had applying for their Spend Local card as well as the overall benefit to local businesses of spend on the cards throughout Northern Ireland.
The full set of survey results can be found at Northern Ireland High Street Scheme Survey October 2021 to March 2022 Report
The High Street Scheme was a huge success injecting more than £136.5 million into the local economy, providing a much needed economic boost to our retail, hospitality and service sectors to help them recover from the devastating impact of the pandemic. Of this spend, £84.9m was spent in businesses required by Covid Regulations to close during 2020, providing a much needed boost to these businesses.
The Department commissioned an independent research report by Retail Economics to assess the perceived value of the Scheme during its operation and found that it was comprehensively welcomed by retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in NI and was seen as an effective way to stimulate the economy, restore consumer confidence and safeguard jobs. The report concluded that 80% of retail and hospitality businesses agreed that the Scheme helped support small independent businesses with the majority reporting that the Scheme had a positive or very positive impact on sales against their expectations for the time of year; 80% of small retailers thought that the Scheme encouraged spending that was otherwise unlikely to have occurred and two-thirds (66%) of small businesses thought that it was a good use of public money.
The Scheme was also well received by our local business representatives, with the Ulster Bank stating that the Scheme had undoubtedly contributed to the pick-up in demand after retail sales in Northern Ireland rose in November for the first time in four months. In addition, figures published by the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC) in December 2021 showed a boost to the number of people going into shops or businesses in October being continued in November following the introduction of the High Street Scheme. The Report demonstrated that Northern Ireland’s footfall in November increased by 5.6 percentage points on the previous month. Northern Ireland’s shop visits were 10 percentage points higher than the UK average.
My Department has commissioned a Post-Project Evaluation (PPE) of the Scheme. The PPE has commenced and will assess the extent to which the Scheme was successfully implemented, achieved its original objectives and provided an economic stimulus for the local economy taking into account the challenges of delivering a scheme of this scale within a very tight timeframe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203208%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380815"}},{"id":"380814","reference":"AQW 3207/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-20","answerBy":"2022-10-05","answered":"2022-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in addition to the construction of more properties, to detail what other initiatives she is planning in order to house the approximate 44,000 households currently on the social housing waiting list.","answerText":"I have set out an ambitious and long-term plan to deliver for those in most housing need. My plan includes:\n\nRevitalising the Housing Executive so that it can borrow, invest in its homes and, ultimately, start building again.\n\nIntroducing reform of the social housing allocations system with the aim of ensuring that it is effective, fair and based on objective need;\n\nImproving the Private Rented Sector so it provides a safe and secure housing option for those that need it;\n\nExpanding the range of affordable intermediate housing options available, including developing a new intermediate rent product to provide an additional supply of good quality, well managed and maintained homes, which are affordable for lower income families; and\n\nDeveloping a Housing Supply Strategy to provide a framework for addressing those whole system issues that impact on housing supply and the delivery of the right volume and types of homes to meet our changing housing need and demand. Most recently this work has included a joint workshop with DFI and other stakeholders to examine potential strategic and tactical solutions in relation to wastewater capacity issues.","answerHtml":"I have set out an ambitious and long-term plan to deliver for those in most housing need. My plan includes:
Revitalising the Housing Executive so that it can borrow, invest in its homes and, ultimately, start building again.
Introducing reform of the social housing allocations system with the aim of ensuring that it is effective, fair and based on objective need;
Improving the Private Rented Sector so it provides a safe and secure housing option for those that need it;
Expanding the range of affordable intermediate housing options available, including developing a new intermediate rent product to provide an additional supply of good quality, well managed and maintained homes, which are affordable for lower income families; and
Developing a Housing Supply Strategy to provide a framework for addressing those whole system issues that impact on housing supply and the delivery of the right volume and types of homes to meet our changing housing need and demand. Most recently this work has included a joint workshop with DFI and other stakeholders to examine potential strategic and tactical solutions in relation to wastewater capacity issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203207%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380814","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380814"}},{"id":"380813","reference":"AQW 3206/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-20","answerBy":"2022-10-05","answered":"2022-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the potential repercussions for teachers’ pay if they take (a) strike action; and (b) industrial action short of a strike; and (ii) the reasons for these repercussions.","answerText":"Teachers’ terms and conditions, including pay, are negotiated by the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC). Management Side of the TNC includes representatives from the employers, sectoral interests and the Department of Education. Teachers’ Side of the TNC includes representatives from the five main teaching unions (INTO, UTU, NAHT, NASUWT and NEU).\n\nI understand that Management Side of the TNC has carried out an assessment of NASUWT’s industrial action and it has formed a view that teachers participating in the action short of strike as directed by NASUWT are not fulfilling the full extent of their contractual obligations and are thereby in breach of contract.\n\nMy Department is not responsible for the management of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee although they are a key representative on it.\n\nDiscussions are ongoing and I very much hope that Management Side and Teachers’ Side will come to a resolution as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Teachers’ terms and conditions, including pay, are negotiated by the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC). Management Side of the TNC includes representatives from the employers, sectoral interests and the Department of Education. Teachers’ Side of the TNC includes representatives from the five main teaching unions (INTO, UTU, NAHT, NASUWT and NEU).
I understand that Management Side of the TNC has carried out an assessment of NASUWT’s industrial action and it has formed a view that teachers participating in the action short of strike as directed by NASUWT are not fulfilling the full extent of their contractual obligations and are thereby in breach of contract.
My Department is not responsible for the management of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee although they are a key representative on it.
Discussions are ongoing and I very much hope that Management Side and Teachers’ Side will come to a resolution as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203206%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380813","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380813"}},{"id":"380812","reference":"AQW 3205/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-20","answerBy":"2022-10-05","answered":"2022-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the options available to her to avoid budget deficits in her Department in the absence of an agreed Executive budget.","answerText":"My Department is very restricted in its ability to reprioritise or reduce spend due to the vast majority of its budget being required to address statutory and demand-led obligations. About 80% of the total Education budget is subsumed by staff costs.\n\nWhile work is ongoing to identify programmes of spend that could be scaled back or stopped, this will be extremely limited; and obviously any reduction in spend would invariably require cuts to essential frontline services that support the most vulnerable within our society, as well as risking breaching statutory obligations.\n\nMy Department started the year with inescapable or pre-committed pressures estimated at a minimum of c£409m against the indicative baseline. This figure has now risen to c£550m. Therefore, without confirmed in-year budget cover well in excess of the indicative baseline, the Department is heading towards a significant overspend up to this amount.\n\nEven if the Draft Budget proposals are agreed to (which would give DE an additional c£161m above the indicative baseline), this would still lead to a very significant Departmental overspend of up to c£390m.\n\nSome of the most significant pressures relate to pay (c£188m) and Special Educational Needs (c£122m).","answerHtml":"My Department is very restricted in its ability to reprioritise or reduce spend due to the vast majority of its budget being required to address statutory and demand-led obligations. About 80% of the total Education budget is subsumed by staff costs.
While work is ongoing to identify programmes of spend that could be scaled back or stopped, this will be extremely limited; and obviously any reduction in spend would invariably require cuts to essential frontline services that support the most vulnerable within our society, as well as risking breaching statutory obligations.
My Department started the year with inescapable or pre-committed pressures estimated at a minimum of c£409m against the indicative baseline. This figure has now risen to c£550m. Therefore, without confirmed in-year budget cover well in excess of the indicative baseline, the Department is heading towards a significant overspend up to this amount.
Even if the Draft Budget proposals are agreed to (which would give DE an additional c£161m above the indicative baseline), this would still lead to a very significant Departmental overspend of up to c£390m.
Some of the most significant pressures relate to pay (c£188m) and Special Educational Needs (c£122m).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203205%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380812","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380812"}},{"id":"380811","reference":"AQW 3204/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-20","answerBy":"2022-10-05","answered":"2022-10-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what initiatives he is progressing to build on Coleraine High Street’s joint success in Retail NI’s High Street Heroes awards.","answerText":"I was honoured to be involved once again in the High Street Heroes campaign this year. Our retailers are the lifeblood of our economy, and it is right that they are celebrated for their excellence. I was delighted to see Coleraine awarded ‘High Street of the Year’ alongside Newtownards.\n\nMy Department’s Vision for a 10x Economy was published in May last year. The vision places innovation at the centre of our economic action with the aim of enabling businesses of all sizes, stages and in all locations, to expand and grow.\n\nI also want to see more people and places participating and benefitting from this economic growth with better opportunities, quality jobs and higher wages available to all our people. The vision was only a first step in setting out our economic priorities. It will be supported by a series of publications to outline, in more detail, how we will transform our economy over the next decade. Officials are currently undertaking work to develop policies and interventions that will deliver the Economic Vision.\n\nThe success of our high streets requires the involvement of many agencies and stakeholders. The Executive Office established a High Street Task Force, while other departments have lead responsibility for town regeneration, planning and licensing. From the perspective of my Department, I am confident that the actions arising from the vision will enable Coleraine to flourish economically and build on its well-deserved success.","answerHtml":"I was honoured to be involved once again in the High Street Heroes campaign this year. Our retailers are the lifeblood of our economy, and it is right that they are celebrated for their excellence. I was delighted to see Coleraine awarded ‘High Street of the Year’ alongside Newtownards.
My Department’s Vision for a 10x Economy was published in May last year. The vision places innovation at the centre of our economic action with the aim of enabling businesses of all sizes, stages and in all locations, to expand and grow.
I also want to see more people and places participating and benefitting from this economic growth with better opportunities, quality jobs and higher wages available to all our people. The vision was only a first step in setting out our economic priorities. It will be supported by a series of publications to outline, in more detail, how we will transform our economy over the next decade. Officials are currently undertaking work to develop policies and interventions that will deliver the Economic Vision.
The success of our high streets requires the involvement of many agencies and stakeholders. The Executive Office established a High Street Task Force, while other departments have lead responsibility for town regeneration, planning and licensing. From the perspective of my Department, I am confident that the actions arising from the vision will enable Coleraine to flourish economically and build on its well-deserved success.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203204%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380811","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380811"}},{"id":"380468","reference":"AQW 3062/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline what steps he is taking to ease production costs for agri-food business owners.","answerText":"Northern Ireland producers are facing unprecedented rises in input costs. We continue to monitor the impacts and have a range of actions in place to mitigate these impacts on primary production businesses.\n\nThe ‘Rising Cost Taskforce’ (led by College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise with cross industry representation) continues to ensure the consistency of advisory messages and provides practical help and support. It is currently surveying farm businesses and the information gathered will inform targeted messaging over the winter months. Further practical on-farm information sessions to consider the continuing increasing input costs will be delivered by my officials over the winter months. The key concerns are energy costs, fertiliser cost and availability and expected increase in compound feed costs.\n\nI recognise that there continues to be volatility in the market and the overall situation remains difficult given the scale of the input cost rises. From 01\n\nSeptember 2022 I issued full Direct Payments of £286.9million to 97% of eligible applicants. This was 6 weeks earlier than previous years and should help assist our local agri-industry with cash flow. I have also delivered a pig sector support scheme to address some of the challenges affecting pig producers, with payments of over £1.2m issued to approximately 130 producers.\n\nMy Officials have significant ongoing engagement with industry stakeholders, Defra, other devolved administrations and the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine (ROI) on those cross-cutting issues relating to reducing the impacts of volatility in price and supply of key industry inputs. I continue to engage regularly with UK Government at a senior level and drive home the importance of national collaboration on dealing with the impacts of the Ukraine crisis on our agri-food industry and future food security. I have written and met with the former Secretary of State, Rt Hon George Eustice on a number of occasions to reiterate my concerns regarding the unprecedented increases in input costs and the need for a range of measures, including financial assistance for UK farmers to support them through the crisis. I will be restating those concerns to the new Secretary of State for DEFRA, Ranil Jayawardena MP.\n\nDAERA produces a weekly Food Observatory Report and a supporting Food Supply Impact Assessment to continuously assess the health of the food supply system for Northern Ireland. An escalation policy, to raise issues of concern through TEO, is in place so that we are prepared for both future crisis and long term sustainability issues associated with our food supplies. A cross departmental food forum supports this work.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland producers are facing unprecedented rises in input costs. We continue to monitor the impacts and have a range of actions in place to mitigate these impacts on primary production businesses.
The ‘Rising Cost Taskforce’ (led by College of Agriculture Food and Rural Enterprise with cross industry representation) continues to ensure the consistency of advisory messages and provides practical help and support. It is currently surveying farm businesses and the information gathered will inform targeted messaging over the winter months. Further practical on-farm information sessions to consider the continuing increasing input costs will be delivered by my officials over the winter months. The key concerns are energy costs, fertiliser cost and availability and expected increase in compound feed costs.
I recognise that there continues to be volatility in the market and the overall situation remains difficult given the scale of the input cost rises. From 01
September 2022 I issued full Direct Payments of £286.9million to 97% of eligible applicants. This was 6 weeks earlier than previous years and should help assist our local agri-industry with cash flow. I have also delivered a pig sector support scheme to address some of the challenges affecting pig producers, with payments of over £1.2m issued to approximately 130 producers.
My Officials have significant ongoing engagement with industry stakeholders, Defra, other devolved administrations and the Department of Agriculture, Food and Marine (ROI) on those cross-cutting issues relating to reducing the impacts of volatility in price and supply of key industry inputs. I continue to engage regularly with UK Government at a senior level and drive home the importance of national collaboration on dealing with the impacts of the Ukraine crisis on our agri-food industry and future food security. I have written and met with the former Secretary of State, Rt Hon George Eustice on a number of occasions to reiterate my concerns regarding the unprecedented increases in input costs and the need for a range of measures, including financial assistance for UK farmers to support them through the crisis. I will be restating those concerns to the new Secretary of State for DEFRA, Ranil Jayawardena MP.
DAERA produces a weekly Food Observatory Report and a supporting Food Supply Impact Assessment to continuously assess the health of the food supply system for Northern Ireland. An escalation policy, to raise issues of concern through TEO, is in place so that we are prepared for both future crisis and long term sustainability issues associated with our food supplies. A cross departmental food forum supports this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203062%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380468","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380468"}},{"id":"380467","reference":"AQW 3061/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail any positive outcomes resulting from conversations with the UK Government regarding the easing of immigration regulations for agri-food workers; and (ii) for an update on his assessment of labour supply in this sector.","answerText":"I met with the then, Defra Secretary of State George Eustice MP on 08 June 2022, to discuss a number of issues facing the NI agriculture sector, including labour challenges as I understand fully the impact that labour shortages are having on our agri-food sector. Disappointingly, the Home Office continue to be steadfast in their view that their immigration policy will not change and that all sectors requiring labour should focus their efforts on recruiting domestic workers and in investing where possible in automation.\n\nOver the past 18 months, I have had extensive and regular engagement with our agri-food stakeholders on the issue of labour shortages and they have indicated that despite offering competitive wages and other incentives, they have struggled to recruit all the workers they need. They have collectively expressed concerns that insufficient appetite exists among our domestic workforce for the types of jobs they\n\nare able to offer. This is why, I continue to press the UK Government for changes to existing immigration policy because I realise that aspirations for increased domestic workers and use of automation will only be possible with time and investment.\n\nDespite the UK Government’s insistence that they are not open to considering new visa routes or easing their immigration regulations, they did announce a week after this meeting that they would be expanding their Seasonal Agricultural Workers (SAW) scheme from 30,000 working visas to 40,000. They also agreed that a fifth of these additional visas would be allocated to the seasonal poultry sector. I greatly welcomed this development because I had made a recommendation for the inclusion of the seasonal poultry sector in this scheme based on my own engagements with NI stakeholders. Furthermore, I believe it does highlight that if there is enough evidence to justify a change that the UK Government have shown they are willing to make adjustments.\n\nOn the second point regarding my assessment of labour supply in the NI agricultural sector, I want to be clear that unfortunately there is still a shortage problem, albeit that recently there has been less requests from stakeholders to meet and discuss the matter. However, this is because for many of these businesses the immediate focus has now switched to soaring energy and fertiliser costs and potential issues with Carbon Dioxide supplies.\n\nThe labour shortages in the agri-food sector have been exacerbated by the fact that there are labour shortages being experienced in all sectors of our economy and this is coupled with a very low unemployment rate. The most recent published statistics show that UK unemployment rate for May to July 2022 was 3.6% which is the lowest rate since May to July 1974. In Northern Ireland, our unemployment rate is\n\neven lower at 2.7% as of June 2022. While it is great to see unemployment rates so low it is problematic for those businesses trying to fill shortages because there is a smaller pool of potential domestic employees available and significant competition for these potential workers.\n\nAs stated earlier I still believe that in the short term we will continue to have a need for access to non-domestic workers to help fill some of the labour shortages in our industry and I continue to engage with Government in Whitehall on this matter.","answerHtml":"I met with the then, Defra Secretary of State George Eustice MP on 08 June 2022, to discuss a number of issues facing the NI agriculture sector, including labour challenges as I understand fully the impact that labour shortages are having on our agri-food sector. Disappointingly, the Home Office continue to be steadfast in their view that their immigration policy will not change and that all sectors requiring labour should focus their efforts on recruiting domestic workers and in investing where possible in automation.
Over the past 18 months, I have had extensive and regular engagement with our agri-food stakeholders on the issue of labour shortages and they have indicated that despite offering competitive wages and other incentives, they have struggled to recruit all the workers they need. They have collectively expressed concerns that insufficient appetite exists among our domestic workforce for the types of jobs they
are able to offer. This is why, I continue to press the UK Government for changes to existing immigration policy because I realise that aspirations for increased domestic workers and use of automation will only be possible with time and investment.
Despite the UK Government’s insistence that they are not open to considering new visa routes or easing their immigration regulations, they did announce a week after this meeting that they would be expanding their Seasonal Agricultural Workers (SAW) scheme from 30,000 working visas to 40,000. They also agreed that a fifth of these additional visas would be allocated to the seasonal poultry sector. I greatly welcomed this development because I had made a recommendation for the inclusion of the seasonal poultry sector in this scheme based on my own engagements with NI stakeholders. Furthermore, I believe it does highlight that if there is enough evidence to justify a change that the UK Government have shown they are willing to make adjustments.
On the second point regarding my assessment of labour supply in the NI agricultural sector, I want to be clear that unfortunately there is still a shortage problem, albeit that recently there has been less requests from stakeholders to meet and discuss the matter. However, this is because for many of these businesses the immediate focus has now switched to soaring energy and fertiliser costs and potential issues with Carbon Dioxide supplies.
The labour shortages in the agri-food sector have been exacerbated by the fact that there are labour shortages being experienced in all sectors of our economy and this is coupled with a very low unemployment rate. The most recent published statistics show that UK unemployment rate for May to July 2022 was 3.6% which is the lowest rate since May to July 1974. In Northern Ireland, our unemployment rate is
even lower at 2.7% as of June 2022. While it is great to see unemployment rates so low it is problematic for those businesses trying to fill shortages because there is a smaller pool of potential domestic employees available and significant competition for these potential workers.
As stated earlier I still believe that in the short term we will continue to have a need for access to non-domestic workers to help fill some of the labour shortages in our industry and I continue to engage with Government in Whitehall on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203061%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380467","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380467"}},{"id":"380466","reference":"AQW 3060/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans he has to introduce work policies for women experiencing symptoms of menopause or fertility treatment which may impact their ability to work.","answerText":"Good employers recognise the challenges that many women can face within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause. They similarly recognise the potential impact undergoing fertility treatment can have on the ability of employees to work during this period. They have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I would encourage all employers to offer such flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff.\n\nThe Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions have published a guide to help promote equality in employment for women affected by menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace policies.\n\nThe Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and websites such as NIBusinessInfo and NIDirect all provide valuable advice and guidance for employers and workers on these and a range of other workplace issues. Employers are recommended to take these sources of information into account when developing their own workplace policies.","answerHtml":"Good employers recognise the challenges that many women can face within the workplace when experiencing symptoms of menopause. They similarly recognise the potential impact undergoing fertility treatment can have on the ability of employees to work during this period. They have flexible supportive working policies in place such as homeworking, flexible hours, or compassionate leave. I would encourage all employers to offer such flexible and supportive working arrangements for their staff.
The Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and the Irish Congress of Trade Unions have published a guide to help promote equality in employment for women affected by menopause. All employers are recommended to consider this guide when developing their own workplace policies.
The Labour Relations Agency, the Equality Commission and websites such as NIBusinessInfo and NIDirect all provide valuable advice and guidance for employers and workers on these and a range of other workplace issues. Employers are recommended to take these sources of information into account when developing their own workplace policies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203060%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380466","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380466"}},{"id":"380465","reference":"AQW 3059/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the steps he is taking to relay to the Westminster government and EU the views of Northern Irish business groups and owners regarding the best way to resolve the issues around the NI Protocol.","answerText":"My officials have regular contact with NI businesses and business representative groups to understand the issues they are facing around the NI Protocol. I have consistently escalated these concerns directly to UK Government Ministers to ensure NI’s trading relationships with the rest of the UK and with the EU are well considered.\n\nIt is the responsibility of the UK Government to negotiate with the EU.","answerHtml":"My officials have regular contact with NI businesses and business representative groups to understand the issues they are facing around the NI Protocol. I have consistently escalated these concerns directly to UK Government Ministers to ensure NI’s trading relationships with the rest of the UK and with the EU are well considered.
It is the responsibility of the UK Government to negotiate with the EU.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203059%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380465","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380465"}},{"id":"380464","reference":"AQW 3058/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-08","answerBy":"2022-09-26","answered":"2022-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline what steps he is taking to make conducting business more affordable for business owners amid the cost of living crisis, in order to limit the number of business closures.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the pressure businesses are facing across the board, primarily as a result of soaring wholesale energy costs associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In the last year, since September 2021, the wholesale cost of natural gas has trebled (+194%), while the cost of coal (+104%) and home heating oil (+107%) has doubled. Coupled with ongoing global supply chain disruptions, these unprecedented increases in energy costs are driving inflation across the economy, including food and other commodities.\n\nAs we are seeing across Europe and beyond, the magnitude of these global inflationary pressures means that it can only be tackled meaningfully by significant interventions at a national government level. That is why in recent weeks and months I have taken every opportunity to engage with UK Government to highlight the inflationary pressures being felt by households and businesses in Northern Ireland.\n\nFollowing these engagements, I welcome the UK Government’s commitment to deliver the much needed £400 Energy Support Payment Scheme in Northern Ireland. In addition, the announcement by the Prime Minister of an Energy Price Guarantee and her continued commitment that the same level of support will be made available in Northern Ireland. This relief will give households and businesses a degree of certainty with their bills over the coming months. My Department will continue to engage with the UK Government and others to ensure these support measures reach Northern Ireland households and businesses as soon as possible.\n\nThe outlook remains challenging but I am hopeful for the future. I am investing in those areas where we can gain the best long-term outcomes, which will help us build greater economic resilience for the future. For example, I have published an energy strategy which will deliver a step change in how we move away from our reliance on overseas, imported fossil fuels. Alongside our investment in skills this will support the delivery of our ambitious 10X Economic Vision for the benefit of all our people.\n\nIn practical terms, Invest Northern Ireland’s Energy and Resource Efficiency Support for businesses provides a suite of support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable local businesses to become more efficient and resilient through green efficiencies.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the pressure businesses are facing across the board, primarily as a result of soaring wholesale energy costs associated with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. In the last year, since September 2021, the wholesale cost of natural gas has trebled (+194%), while the cost of coal (+104%) and home heating oil (+107%) has doubled. Coupled with ongoing global supply chain disruptions, these unprecedented increases in energy costs are driving inflation across the economy, including food and other commodities.
As we are seeing across Europe and beyond, the magnitude of these global inflationary pressures means that it can only be tackled meaningfully by significant interventions at a national government level. That is why in recent weeks and months I have taken every opportunity to engage with UK Government to highlight the inflationary pressures being felt by households and businesses in Northern Ireland.
Following these engagements, I welcome the UK Government’s commitment to deliver the much needed £400 Energy Support Payment Scheme in Northern Ireland. In addition, the announcement by the Prime Minister of an Energy Price Guarantee and her continued commitment that the same level of support will be made available in Northern Ireland. This relief will give households and businesses a degree of certainty with their bills over the coming months. My Department will continue to engage with the UK Government and others to ensure these support measures reach Northern Ireland households and businesses as soon as possible.
The outlook remains challenging but I am hopeful for the future. I am investing in those areas where we can gain the best long-term outcomes, which will help us build greater economic resilience for the future. For example, I have published an energy strategy which will deliver a step change in how we move away from our reliance on overseas, imported fossil fuels. Alongside our investment in skills this will support the delivery of our ambitious 10X Economic Vision for the benefit of all our people.
In practical terms, Invest Northern Ireland’s Energy and Resource Efficiency Support for businesses provides a suite of support, including specialist advice and investment capital, to enable local businesses to become more efficient and resilient through green efficiencies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203058%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380464","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380464"}},{"id":"380370","reference":"AQW 2971/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether each child between the age of three and four years is entitled to a funded preschool place; (ii) why preschools have a limit on the number of funded places they can offer; (iii) why preschools may have to cut the number of funded places they offer; and (iv) how preschools who decline government funded children are then able to accept children if their parents pay for a place.","answerText":"Pre-school provision is an important phase of early education and learning therefore, it is my Department’s aim to provide one year of funded pre-school education for every target age child whose parents want it. In the last eight years, at least 99.8% of parents who stayed with the admissions process to the end received the offer of a funded pre-school education place in a setting of their preference.\n\nFunded pre-school places are provided through the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP), and accessed via a preference based admissions process. Operational decisions about the allocation and funding of non-statutory pre-school education places is the responsibility of the Education Authority Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG). This group comprises representatives from the statutory, voluntary and private sectors and is chaired by an officer or member of the EA Board. It operates within strict parameters, allocating only sufficient funded places to meet the level of demand in local areas. All non-statutory settings are allocated places for one year at a time, and no setting is guaranteed a minimum allocation, or one that will accommodate all first preference applications.\n\nThe EA PEG keeps the provision of funded places under constant review and may contact non-statutory pre-school settings directly to allocate additional funded places should they identify a need, e.g. where there is a shortfall of provision in a local area.\n\nAll non-statutory settings are registered as childcare providers under The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and as such, have the flexibility to offer fee paying childcare places to parents if they wish, under the stipulation that the relevant requirements of the Minimum Standards are adhered to.","answerHtml":"Pre-school provision is an important phase of early education and learning therefore, it is my Department’s aim to provide one year of funded pre-school education for every target age child whose parents want it. In the last eight years, at least 99.8% of parents who stayed with the admissions process to the end received the offer of a funded pre-school education place in a setting of their preference.
Funded pre-school places are provided through the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP), and accessed via a preference based admissions process. Operational decisions about the allocation and funding of non-statutory pre-school education places is the responsibility of the Education Authority Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG). This group comprises representatives from the statutory, voluntary and private sectors and is chaired by an officer or member of the EA Board. It operates within strict parameters, allocating only sufficient funded places to meet the level of demand in local areas. All non-statutory settings are allocated places for one year at a time, and no setting is guaranteed a minimum allocation, or one that will accommodate all first preference applications.
The EA PEG keeps the provision of funded places under constant review and may contact non-statutory pre-school settings directly to allocate additional funded places should they identify a need, e.g. where there is a shortfall of provision in a local area.
All non-statutory settings are registered as childcare providers under The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and as such, have the flexibility to offer fee paying childcare places to parents if they wish, under the stipulation that the relevant requirements of the Minimum Standards are adhered to.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202971%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380370"}},{"id":"380369","reference":"AQW 2970/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her assessment of preschool provision, particularly in rural areas.","answerText":"Pre-school provision is an important phase of early education and learning for all children.\n\nMy Department’s aim through the Pre-School Education Programme is to provide a year of funded pre-school education for every target age child whose parents want it. Pre-school education is non-compulsory, however, each year most parents - approximately 93% - apply for a funded pre-school place for their child.\n\nIn each of the last eight years my Department has achieved its aim with at least 99.8% of children whose parents remained with the admissions process to the end receiving an offer of a funded pre-school education place in a setting of their preference. A similar percentage of children living in rural areas (based on the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency definition of urban/rural) were placed in a setting of their choosing.\n\nIn the 2021/22 academic year, a total of 22,790 children attended funded pre-school education places across 699 pre-school settings. Based on the NISRA definition, approximately 32% of funded places were in rural areas, across 302 pre-school settings. This is broadly in line with the population distribution based on the same definition.\n\nInformation from the Education and Training Inspectorate also demonstrates the high quality of the pre-school provision we offer our young children. Moving forward my intention is to build on this through the standardisation of the length of pre-school sessions and the implementation of the early years actions in the Fair Start Report.","answerHtml":"Pre-school provision is an important phase of early education and learning for all children.
My Department’s aim through the Pre-School Education Programme is to provide a year of funded pre-school education for every target age child whose parents want it. Pre-school education is non-compulsory, however, each year most parents - approximately 93% - apply for a funded pre-school place for their child.
In each of the last eight years my Department has achieved its aim with at least 99.8% of children whose parents remained with the admissions process to the end receiving an offer of a funded pre-school education place in a setting of their preference. A similar percentage of children living in rural areas (based on the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency definition of urban/rural) were placed in a setting of their choosing.
In the 2021/22 academic year, a total of 22,790 children attended funded pre-school education places across 699 pre-school settings. Based on the NISRA definition, approximately 32% of funded places were in rural areas, across 302 pre-school settings. This is broadly in line with the population distribution based on the same definition.
Information from the Education and Training Inspectorate also demonstrates the high quality of the pre-school provision we offer our young children. Moving forward my intention is to build on this through the standardisation of the length of pre-school sessions and the implementation of the early years actions in the Fair Start Report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202970%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380369"}},{"id":"380368","reference":"AQW 2969/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) why the maximum maintenance loan available to Northern Irish students studying in Great Britain is lower than that for a student from a similar economic background studying at the same university but domiciled in Great Britain; (ii) whether raising the loan limit would come at any cost to his Department; and (iii) whether he plans to review this.","answerText":"I have confirmed a 40% increase in the maximum student maintenance loan available to full-time undergraduate students, providing in the region of £55million in additional support to approximately 40,500 NI-domiciled students studying in the UK and Republic of Ireland from academic year 2023/24.\n\nIn addition, my Department will undertake a full review of the higher education funding system, including the support provided to students such as maintenance loans, grants and other student support products, and the support provided to the sector, such as the level and mix of teaching grant and fees.","answerHtml":"I have confirmed a 40% increase in the maximum student maintenance loan available to full-time undergraduate students, providing in the region of £55million in additional support to approximately 40,500 NI-domiciled students studying in the UK and Republic of Ireland from academic year 2023/24.
In addition, my Department will undertake a full review of the higher education funding system, including the support provided to students such as maintenance loans, grants and other student support products, and the support provided to the sector, such as the level and mix of teaching grant and fees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202969%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380368"}},{"id":"380367","reference":"AQW 2968/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) why the total funding available via maintenance loans and means-tested non-repayable maintenance grants to Northern Irish students studying in Great Britain is much lower than that for a student from a similar economic background studying at the same university but domiciled in Great Britain; and (ii) what plans he has to review this.","answerText":"I have confirmed a 40% increase in the maximum student maintenance loan available to full-time undergraduate students, providing in the region of £55million in additional support to approximately 40,500 NI-domiciled students studying in the UK and Republic of Ireland from academic year 2023/24.\n\nIn addition, my Department will undertake a full review of the higher education funding system, including the support provided to students such as maintenance loans, grants and other student support products, and the support provided to the sector, such as the level and mix of teaching grant and fees.","answerHtml":"I have confirmed a 40% increase in the maximum student maintenance loan available to full-time undergraduate students, providing in the region of £55million in additional support to approximately 40,500 NI-domiciled students studying in the UK and Republic of Ireland from academic year 2023/24.
In addition, my Department will undertake a full review of the higher education funding system, including the support provided to students such as maintenance loans, grants and other student support products, and the support provided to the sector, such as the level and mix of teaching grant and fees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202968%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380367"}},{"id":"380366","reference":"AQW 2967/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-07","answerBy":"2022-09-23","answered":"2022-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what guidance has been given to haulage companies bringing privately bought goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland in relation to the obligation to request EORI numbers from the buyer.","answerText":"The Trader Support Service (TSS) provides functionality via the TSS portal that permits hauliers to act as the importer and use their EORI to move privately bought goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. There is no requirement for a buyer to provide an EORI number where the end user is a private citizen.\n\nTSS has shared guidance on this process directly with hauliers. Hauliers which have not received guidance should contact the TSS Helpline or raise a case via the TSS Portal.","answerHtml":"The Trader Support Service (TSS) provides functionality via the TSS portal that permits hauliers to act as the importer and use their EORI to move privately bought goods from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. There is no requirement for a buyer to provide an EORI number where the end user is a private citizen.
TSS has shared guidance on this process directly with hauliers. Hauliers which have not received guidance should contact the TSS Helpline or raise a case via the TSS Portal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202967%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380366"}},{"id":"380283","reference":"AQW 2893/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline what steps he is taking, and advice he is giving, to reduce sedentary behaviour in desk and office-based workplaces, in particular those in the public sector; and (ii) for his assessment of those industries most affected by sedentary behaviour.","answerText":"(i) My Department, in conjunction with the Public Health Agency, works cross-departmentally with the Department for Communities in relation to their Active Living: Sport and Physical Activity Strategy and with the Department of Infrastructure’s Active Travel strategy. Alongside my Department’s A Fitter Future For All strategic framework, these strategic partners work together to promote the Chief Medical Officer’s Physical Activity Guidelines, which aims to improve physical activity across all parts of the population and to increase the numbers of people choosing to travel to schools and workplaces through active travel means.\n\nProgrammes in place to address sedentary behaviours include the workplace health programme - ‘Work Well Live Well’ - which works with 250 businesses in Northern Ireland, with sedentary workers being a key target group. The workplace active travel programme ‘Leading the Way’ in Belfast and the North West supports people to use active travel modes of transport and to use this as a means to attain the CMO Physical Activity Guidelines. As part of this, the annual Active Travel Challenge invites workplaces across Northern Ireland to sign up to compete with other employers and to log active travel journeys during the period of the challenge.\n\nFinally, the Regional Health and Social Care Workforce Wellbeing group launched a Regional Staff Health and Wellbeing website to help promote the Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines and hosts resources and recommendations to support staff and their families to incorporate physical activity into their daily activities.\n\n(ii) There is evidence to show that office workers are at risk of excess sedentary behaviour. A recent study using data from 360,047 adults from UK showed participants who reported more than 6 hours/day compared with less than 2 hours/day sedentary time had higher risks of 12 of 46 non-communicable diseases. These included ischemic heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, thyroid disorder, depression, migraine, gout, rheumatoid arthritis & diverticular disease. Another study addressing health and sitting in 850,000 adults showed that, without changes to the levels of sedentary behaviour, 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per day would be required to compensate for the added mortality risk.","answerHtml":"(i) My Department, in conjunction with the Public Health Agency, works cross-departmentally with the Department for Communities in relation to their Active Living: Sport and Physical Activity Strategy and with the Department of Infrastructure’s Active Travel strategy. Alongside my Department’s A Fitter Future For All strategic framework, these strategic partners work together to promote the Chief Medical Officer’s Physical Activity Guidelines, which aims to improve physical activity across all parts of the population and to increase the numbers of people choosing to travel to schools and workplaces through active travel means.
Programmes in place to address sedentary behaviours include the workplace health programme - ‘Work Well Live Well’ - which works with 250 businesses in Northern Ireland, with sedentary workers being a key target group. The workplace active travel programme ‘Leading the Way’ in Belfast and the North West supports people to use active travel modes of transport and to use this as a means to attain the CMO Physical Activity Guidelines. As part of this, the annual Active Travel Challenge invites workplaces across Northern Ireland to sign up to compete with other employers and to log active travel journeys during the period of the challenge.
Finally, the Regional Health and Social Care Workforce Wellbeing group launched a Regional Staff Health and Wellbeing website to help promote the Chief Medical Officers’ Physical Activity Guidelines and hosts resources and recommendations to support staff and their families to incorporate physical activity into their daily activities.
(ii) There is evidence to show that office workers are at risk of excess sedentary behaviour. A recent study using data from 360,047 adults from UK showed participants who reported more than 6 hours/day compared with less than 2 hours/day sedentary time had higher risks of 12 of 46 non-communicable diseases. These included ischemic heart disease, diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, chronic kidney disease, chronic liver disease, thyroid disorder, depression, migraine, gout, rheumatoid arthritis & diverticular disease. Another study addressing health and sitting in 850,000 adults showed that, without changes to the levels of sedentary behaviour, 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous activity per day would be required to compensate for the added mortality risk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202893%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380283","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380283"}},{"id":"380282","reference":"AQW 2892/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what plans he has to make baby heel prick tests for spinal muscular atrophy available through the Health Service.","answerText":"The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) advises ministers across the UK on making decisions related to screening and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is included in the list of conditions that they regularly review. Based on evidence considered by the UK NSC in 2018, the Committee does not currently recommend screening for this condition.","answerHtml":"The UK National Screening Committee (UK NSC) advises ministers across the UK on making decisions related to screening and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is included in the list of conditions that they regularly review. Based on evidence considered by the UK NSC in 2018, the Committee does not currently recommend screening for this condition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202892%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380282"}},{"id":"380281","reference":"AQW 2891/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps he has taken to encourage more members of the Irish Traveller Community to pursue tertiary education.","answerText":"I believe tertiary education opportunities should be available to all, regardless of social or economic background. Further education, higher education, apprenticeship and careers policy and procedure support this ambition.\n\nThe Careers Service, in particular, has a focus on addressing the needs of young people and adults facing, or vulnerable to, social exclusion – including those from the travelling community. Through partnership working arrangements with all post-primary schools in Northern Ireland young people who are most at risk of leaving school early, or, at risk of not successfully progressing to education, training or employment are identified early in school and actively supported by the DfE Careers Service until they are settled into a positive and appropriate destination.\n\nThe Careers Service has also established effective working relationships and referral arrangements with a broad range of statutory, voluntary and community sector bodies who have a shared interest in supporting clients vulnerable to social exclusion, including those from the travelling community.\n\nWidening participation in higher education continues to be a priority for my Department. We want to ensure that those most able but least likely can access and benefit from the higher education that is right for them. To help facilitate this all higher education providers are required to spend a minimum of 10% of their additional tuition fee income on activities relating to widening participation. While the Department has identified specific target groups for widening participation, as referred to in the ‘Access to Success’ strategy, higher education providers can also identify further under-represented and disadvantaged groups to target if there is an identified need. Research commissioned by the Department looking at the widening participation landscape in Northern Ireland is currently being finalised and will inform future widening participation policy and actions.\n\nI also want to continue to ensure the widest possible take-up of our Further Education and Apprenticeship offers, helping to link individuals to work. I was therefore very pleased that in April 2021, a member of the Irish Traveller Community won the Department for the Economy’s Apprentice of the Year Award.","answerHtml":"I believe tertiary education opportunities should be available to all, regardless of social or economic background. Further education, higher education, apprenticeship and careers policy and procedure support this ambition.
The Careers Service, in particular, has a focus on addressing the needs of young people and adults facing, or vulnerable to, social exclusion – including those from the travelling community. Through partnership working arrangements with all post-primary schools in Northern Ireland young people who are most at risk of leaving school early, or, at risk of not successfully progressing to education, training or employment are identified early in school and actively supported by the DfE Careers Service until they are settled into a positive and appropriate destination.
The Careers Service has also established effective working relationships and referral arrangements with a broad range of statutory, voluntary and community sector bodies who have a shared interest in supporting clients vulnerable to social exclusion, including those from the travelling community.
Widening participation in higher education continues to be a priority for my Department. We want to ensure that those most able but least likely can access and benefit from the higher education that is right for them. To help facilitate this all higher education providers are required to spend a minimum of 10% of their additional tuition fee income on activities relating to widening participation. While the Department has identified specific target groups for widening participation, as referred to in the ‘Access to Success’ strategy, higher education providers can also identify further under-represented and disadvantaged groups to target if there is an identified need. Research commissioned by the Department looking at the widening participation landscape in Northern Ireland is currently being finalised and will inform future widening participation policy and actions.
I also want to continue to ensure the widest possible take-up of our Further Education and Apprenticeship offers, helping to link individuals to work. I was therefore very pleased that in April 2021, a member of the Irish Traveller Community won the Department for the Economy’s Apprentice of the Year Award.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202891%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380281"}},{"id":"380280","reference":"AQW 2890/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":"2022-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the guidance given to planners and councils regarding the potential over development of properties such as apartments, which are likely to be sold as tourist rentals or second homes.","answerText":"Relevant policy and guidance is contained in a range of Departmental publications, including the Regional Development Strategy 2035; the Strategic Planning Policy Statement; retained Planning Policy Statement 12: Housing in Settlements and Planning Policy Statement 7: Quality Residential Environments (and its associated addenda); Development Control Advice Note 8 “Housing in Existing Urban Areas; and, ‘Creating Places: Achieving Quality in Residential Developments’. These documents will be taken into account by councils in plan-making and decision-taking for all types of housing, including apartment development.\n\nAs you will be aware, here in the North, housing policy is the responsibility of the Department for Communities. DfC has advised that there is limited up-to-date information available as to the extent and in what way second homes or short term holiday rentals impact on housing stress and homelessness. The need for improved housing-related data collection and analysis forms part of the ongoing work of the Housing Supply Strategy which is being led by DfC and on which DfI officials are and will continue to be engaged.\n\nUltimately, councils have the important responsibility for setting a vision for the long term future development of their areas through the preparation of local development plans. In doing so councils have the flexibility to bring forward bespoke approaches to dealing with any local issues which affect their communities.","answerHtml":"Relevant policy and guidance is contained in a range of Departmental publications, including the Regional Development Strategy 2035; the Strategic Planning Policy Statement; retained Planning Policy Statement 12: Housing in Settlements and Planning Policy Statement 7: Quality Residential Environments (and its associated addenda); Development Control Advice Note 8 “Housing in Existing Urban Areas; and, ‘Creating Places: Achieving Quality in Residential Developments’. These documents will be taken into account by councils in plan-making and decision-taking for all types of housing, including apartment development.
As you will be aware, here in the North, housing policy is the responsibility of the Department for Communities. DfC has advised that there is limited up-to-date information available as to the extent and in what way second homes or short term holiday rentals impact on housing stress and homelessness. The need for improved housing-related data collection and analysis forms part of the ongoing work of the Housing Supply Strategy which is being led by DfC and on which DfI officials are and will continue to be engaged.
Ultimately, councils have the important responsibility for setting a vision for the long term future development of their areas through the preparation of local development plans. In doing so councils have the flexibility to bring forward bespoke approaches to dealing with any local issues which affect their communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202890%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380280"}},{"id":"380279","reference":"AQW 2889/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-06","answerBy":"2022-09-22","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of (i) full time; (ii) part-time; and (iii) agency staff nurses employed by the Health and Social Care Trusts in each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202889%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380279"}},{"id":"380201","reference":"AQW 2813/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of farm safety; and (ii) to detail what steps he is taking to improve safety on farms and throughout agriculture.","answerText":"Agriculture remains our most dangerous industry and has consistently held a poor safety record in relation to deaths and serious injury.\n\nWhilst Health and Safety is the remit of the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), my Department continues to show commitment to the safety of our farm families and employees through significant work in a number of different ways.\n\nThe Farm Safety Partnership (FSP), established in 2012, is currently undertaking the 2020-2023 Farm Safety Action Plan, concentrating on specific ‘Farm Safe Essentials’ aimed at reducing the number of serious and fatal incidents relating to frequently recurring causes. The FSP is comprised of representatives from my Department, HSENI, the Ulster Farmers’ Union, the National Farmers’ Union Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster and the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers Association.\n\nThe 'Stop and Think SAFE' farm safety multi media campaign was developed by the FSP to help tackle the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland's farms. It raises the issues of the four main causes of fatalities on our farms - Slurry, Animals, Falls (from height) and Equipment. My Department continues to provide funding for this ongoing high profile and often hard hitting campaign.\n\nThe FSP also developed FarmSafeNet, an online learning tool designed to raise awareness about farm safety. It provides a range of useful resources along with practical information, all to encourage farmers and those working on farms to think seriously about safety on their farm. In addition, the ‘Making it Safer’ tool, included in FarmSafeNet, allows farmers to carry out a simple risk assessment that can help them manage their farm in such a way that it is safer for themselves, families and employees.\n\nThese online farm safety tools are an integral part of the application process for the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme Farm Business Improvement - Capital Scheme. I strongly recommend that all farmers, farm family members and farm workers access these online tools which can be found at www.farmsafenet.org.\n\nFarm safety is a high priority across all programmes that are delivered through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and Health and Safety is a key component of these programmes.\n\nAll new full-time Further Education agriculture students participate in the Yellow Wellies Farm Safety initiative which is delivered by the Farm Safety Foundation. Health and safety is also a key feature of all practical activities undertaken by students during their course at CAFRE. In addition, the education and training provision on the safe operation of machinery at CAFRE has been further enhanced through the use of simulated driving technology.\n\nDuring July and August each year CAFRE provides a tractor driving training course for 13 to 16 year old young people. 132 young people participated on this course during July and August 2022. This course includes Health and Safety, Legal requirements, Safe use of tractors on the farm, and how to safely use trailers and other implements. CAFRE also delivers the Rural Development Programme Business Development Groups (BDGs) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) Schemes. Over 3000 farmers participate in the BDGs and Health and Safety training is an integral part of the scheme. In addition to dedicated Health and Safety sessions, livestock handling, mixing slurry and safe machinery operation are regular topics of on-farm meetings.\n\nWithin the FFKS Scheme, 817 people have undertaken Health & Safety Awareness training which aimed to create more awareness of the risks that exist on farms and encourage activities and work practices that create a safer working environment for all the farm family. Over 2700 farm family members have also been trained in First Aid Awareness.\n\nTo date, 470 farm family members have participated in a ‘Coping with the Pressures of Farming’ course. This is delivered by Rural Support and focuses on farmers’ mental wellbeing. It was developed in response to a growing body of evidence that stress and anxiety impact on farmers’ wellbeing and their ability to do their job and a suggested link between increasing stress levels in farming and increasing risks for farm accidents to occur. The training focuses on helping farm families recognise the signs of stress, the potential causes, the practical steps to address the causes and where to seek help when required.\n\nMy Department will continue to work collaboratively with its partners on the FSP and will ensure health and safety remains embedded within its training provision to help drive home the importance of farm safety and develop a safety-first culture on our local farms. It is, however, the farmers and those living and working on our farms that must put into practice those actions that are required to minimise or eliminate the risks of serious injury or death on our farms.","answerHtml":"Agriculture remains our most dangerous industry and has consistently held a poor safety record in relation to deaths and serious injury.
Whilst Health and Safety is the remit of the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), my Department continues to show commitment to the safety of our farm families and employees through significant work in a number of different ways.
The Farm Safety Partnership (FSP), established in 2012, is currently undertaking the 2020-2023 Farm Safety Action Plan, concentrating on specific ‘Farm Safe Essentials’ aimed at reducing the number of serious and fatal incidents relating to frequently recurring causes. The FSP is comprised of representatives from my Department, HSENI, the Ulster Farmers’ Union, the National Farmers’ Union Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster and the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers Association.
The 'Stop and Think SAFE' farm safety multi media campaign was developed by the FSP to help tackle the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland's farms. It raises the issues of the four main causes of fatalities on our farms - Slurry, Animals, Falls (from height) and Equipment. My Department continues to provide funding for this ongoing high profile and often hard hitting campaign.
The FSP also developed FarmSafeNet, an online learning tool designed to raise awareness about farm safety. It provides a range of useful resources along with practical information, all to encourage farmers and those working on farms to think seriously about safety on their farm. In addition, the ‘Making it Safer’ tool, included in FarmSafeNet, allows farmers to carry out a simple risk assessment that can help them manage their farm in such a way that it is safer for themselves, families and employees.
These online farm safety tools are an integral part of the application process for the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme Farm Business Improvement - Capital Scheme. I strongly recommend that all farmers, farm family members and farm workers access these online tools which can be found at www.farmsafenet.org.
Farm safety is a high priority across all programmes that are delivered through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and Health and Safety is a key component of these programmes.
All new full-time Further Education agriculture students participate in the Yellow Wellies Farm Safety initiative which is delivered by the Farm Safety Foundation. Health and safety is also a key feature of all practical activities undertaken by students during their course at CAFRE. In addition, the education and training provision on the safe operation of machinery at CAFRE has been further enhanced through the use of simulated driving technology.
During July and August each year CAFRE provides a tractor driving training course for 13 to 16 year old young people. 132 young people participated on this course during July and August 2022. This course includes Health and Safety, Legal requirements, Safe use of tractors on the farm, and how to safely use trailers and other implements. CAFRE also delivers the Rural Development Programme Business Development Groups (BDGs) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) Schemes. Over 3000 farmers participate in the BDGs and Health and Safety training is an integral part of the scheme. In addition to dedicated Health and Safety sessions, livestock handling, mixing slurry and safe machinery operation are regular topics of on-farm meetings.
Within the FFKS Scheme, 817 people have undertaken Health & Safety Awareness training which aimed to create more awareness of the risks that exist on farms and encourage activities and work practices that create a safer working environment for all the farm family. Over 2700 farm family members have also been trained in First Aid Awareness.
To date, 470 farm family members have participated in a ‘Coping with the Pressures of Farming’ course. This is delivered by Rural Support and focuses on farmers’ mental wellbeing. It was developed in response to a growing body of evidence that stress and anxiety impact on farmers’ wellbeing and their ability to do their job and a suggested link between increasing stress levels in farming and increasing risks for farm accidents to occur. The training focuses on helping farm families recognise the signs of stress, the potential causes, the practical steps to address the causes and where to seek help when required.
My Department will continue to work collaboratively with its partners on the FSP and will ensure health and safety remains embedded within its training provision to help drive home the importance of farm safety and develop a safety-first culture on our local farms. It is, however, the farmers and those living and working on our farms that must put into practice those actions that are required to minimise or eliminate the risks of serious injury or death on our farms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202813%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380201"}},{"id":"380200","reference":"AQW 2812/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the potential threat of rising avian influenza cases in wild birds to human and animal health.","answerText":"Avian influenza (AI) is primarily a disease of birds and the risk of transmission to humans is low. There is a very low food safety risk for UK consumers and properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.\n\nThe need for stringent and effective biosecurity measures are of paramount importance to help prevent the spread of the disease from wild birds or another source to poultry. Individual site biosecurity remains a crucial mitigation factor.\n\nDepartment of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) officials continue to work closely with the Public Health Agency, local councils and the environmental non-governmental organizations on the issue of collecting and safely disposing of birds and providing advice to the public.\n\nAll keepers of birds are urged to critically review their biosecurity measures using the checklist provided on the DAERA website.","answerHtml":"Avian influenza (AI) is primarily a disease of birds and the risk of transmission to humans is low. There is a very low food safety risk for UK consumers and properly cooked poultry and poultry products, including eggs, are safe to eat.
The need for stringent and effective biosecurity measures are of paramount importance to help prevent the spread of the disease from wild birds or another source to poultry. Individual site biosecurity remains a crucial mitigation factor.
Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) officials continue to work closely with the Public Health Agency, local councils and the environmental non-governmental organizations on the issue of collecting and safely disposing of birds and providing advice to the public.
All keepers of birds are urged to critically review their biosecurity measures using the checklist provided on the DAERA website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202812%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380200","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380200"}},{"id":"380199","reference":"AQW 2811/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail what steps he is taking to protect the Northern Ireland to Republic of Ireland milk trade in anticipation of any changes to the Northern Ireland Protocol.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202811%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380199"}},{"id":"380198","reference":"AQW 2810/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for his assessment of the knock-on effects of the availability of taxis; and (ii) to detail what steps he is taking to mitigate these effects.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry across the North. This role requires balancing the needs of taxi customers, including vulnerable passengers, as well as drivers and operators. My Department remains committed to working within this remit to play its part, alongside those in the taxi industry, to address the range of issues the industry faces.\n\nThe taxi industry operates within the wider context of the existing economic situation and there are many factors that contribute to the current shortage of taxi drivers. As we recover from the Covid pandemic potential drivers will compare the industry to other driving jobs, including those that do not require them to be responsible for managing running costs, or that involve unsociable hours. All of these factors influence the attractiveness of the industry, both to existing licenced taxi drivers that are choosing not to drive for the industry at present, as well as potential new recruits.\n\nYou may wish to note that as part of its regulatory role the Department is currently consulting with the public on a review of taxi fares, which will finish on the 7th of October 2022. This review has factored in a large increase for depot charges, 2022 fuel prices, and other increased costs such as insurance and labour. We are actively encouraging all of those with an interest to respond to the consultation. After this process has concluded the outcome of the review can be implemented, to help address the needs of drivers, operators and taxi customers, including vulnerable passengers.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for the regulation of the taxi industry across the North. This role requires balancing the needs of taxi customers, including vulnerable passengers, as well as drivers and operators. My Department remains committed to working within this remit to play its part, alongside those in the taxi industry, to address the range of issues the industry faces.
The taxi industry operates within the wider context of the existing economic situation and there are many factors that contribute to the current shortage of taxi drivers. As we recover from the Covid pandemic potential drivers will compare the industry to other driving jobs, including those that do not require them to be responsible for managing running costs, or that involve unsociable hours. All of these factors influence the attractiveness of the industry, both to existing licenced taxi drivers that are choosing not to drive for the industry at present, as well as potential new recruits.
You may wish to note that as part of its regulatory role the Department is currently consulting with the public on a review of taxi fares, which will finish on the 7th of October 2022. This review has factored in a large increase for depot charges, 2022 fuel prices, and other increased costs such as insurance and labour. We are actively encouraging all of those with an interest to respond to the consultation. After this process has concluded the outcome of the review can be implemented, to help address the needs of drivers, operators and taxi customers, including vulnerable passengers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202810%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=380198","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=380198"}},{"id":"380197","reference":"AQW 2809/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-09-05","answerBy":"2022-09-21","answered":"2022-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the average construction cost of a Housing Executive property in each of the last five years.","answerText":"In the table below I have provided details of the total cost to deliver a new social housing unit based on the Departments Total Cost Indicator (TCI) methodology.\n\nIt is based on the acquisition and works costs for a general needs 2 storey 3 person/2 bedroom house. I have broken the cost down by the 3 components that make up the TCI.\n\nLand Costs - This is the purchase price of land/property. It will include any developer contributions such as a levy to finance essential infrastructure works such as road improvements.\n\nWorks - Main works contract costs, these include, soil stabilisation and decontamination, piling, road and sewer construction, major demolition works, as well as statutory agreements and associated charges e.g. road bond, connection charges.\n\nOn Costs – These will include legal fees, disbursements and expenses, stamp duty, bank/building Society or other valuation and associated administration fees, fees for building control and planning permission. Furniture provision including loose fittings and furnishings would also be included in this.\n\nTCI are regularly reviewed by the Department and are subject to consultation with the Federation of Housing Associations. TCI rates for 2022/23 are currently under review.\n\nTime Period\tTotal TCI (Average Development Cost per unit)\tLand Total\t% of TCI\tWorks Total\t% of TCI\tOn Costs Total\t% of TCI\nAutumn 2021\t£160,946\t£24,376\t15%\t£119,486\t74%\t£17,084\t11%\nSpring 2021\t£151,090\t£20,329\t13%\t£114,498\t76%\t£16263\t11%\nSpring 2020\t£148,339\t£21,802\t15%\t£110,732\t74%\t£15805\t11%\nSpring 2019\t£140,881\t£22,054\t15%\t£103,936\t74%\t£14,891\t11%\nAutumn 2018\t£129,980\t£18,926\t14%\t£97,190\t75%\t£13,864\t11%\nAutumn 2017\t£121,379\t£15,032\t12%\t£93,368\t77%\t£12,979\t11%","answerHtml":"In the table below I have provided details of the total cost to deliver a new social housing unit based on the Departments Total Cost Indicator (TCI) methodology.
It is based on the acquisition and works costs for a general needs 2 storey 3 person/2 bedroom house. I have broken the cost down by the 3 components that make up the TCI.
Land Costs - This is the purchase price of land/property. It will include any developer contributions such as a levy to finance essential infrastructure works such as road improvements.
Works - Main works contract costs, these include, soil stabilisation and decontamination, piling, road and sewer construction, major demolition works, as well as statutory agreements and associated charges e.g. road bond, connection charges.
On Costs – These will include legal fees, disbursements and expenses, stamp duty, bank/building Society or other valuation and associated administration fees, fees for building control and planning permission. Furniture provision including loose fittings and furnishings would also be included in this.
TCI are regularly reviewed by the Department and are subject to consultation with the Federation of Housing Associations. TCI rates for 2022/23 are currently under review.
| Time Period | Total TCI (Average Development Cost per unit) | Land Total | % of TCI | Works Total | % of TCI | On Costs Total | % of TCI |
| Autumn 2021 | £160,946 | £24,376 | 15% | £119,486 | 74% | £17,084 | 11% |
| Spring 2021 | £151,090 | £20,329 | 13% | £114,498 | 76% | £16263 | 11% |
| Spring 2020 | £148,339 | £21,802 | 15% | £110,732 | 74% | £15805 | 11% |
| Spring 2019 | £140,881 | £22,054 | 15% | £103,936 | 74% | £14,891 | 11% |
| Autumn 2018 | £129,980 | £18,926 | 14% | £97,190 | 75% | £13,864 | 11% |
| Autumn 2017 | £121,379 | £15,032 | 12% | £93,368 | 77% | £12,979 | 11% |
Local councils are responsible for prosecutions in respect of the welfare of companion animals. They do not hold a database or register of all persons in Northern Ireland banned from owning animals. These details are recorded on the criminal records system which is overseen by the Department of Justice. Local councils do, however, use their own information system to record details of any companion animal welfare investigations they carry out, including any conviction secured and the penalties imposed.
The criminal records system holds the information that would be needed to establish a register of people prohibited from owning or working with animals. However, as any register would be animal welfare related, the Department of Justice indicated that my Department should lead on exploring whether or not establishing one is feasible. Detailed research by my Department and its liaison with the Department of Justice has recently regrettably confirmed that the creation of a register of animal welfare offenders is untenable.
In particular, data supplied by the Department of Justice from the criminal records system does not indicate that the number of persons breaching bans on the owning or keeping animals is in anyway significant; during the period from 2016 until 2020, the rate of re-offending in respect of animal welfare offences was very low at 3.35%, with only three breaches of court disqualifications on the actual owning or keeping animals during that period. I am satisfied that, where there is sufficient evidence of a breach, statutory enforcement agencies have powers to investigate and pursue a prosecution.
My officials have, however, been exploring the potential to enhance current ways of working and information sharing between the relevant enforcement agencies to ensure continued compliance with bans on the owning or keeping of animals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202672%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377973","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377973"}},{"id":"377972","reference":"AQW 2671/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why, in 2021-22, (a) the number of people who have seen a dentist; and (b) the range of treatment delivered, has not returned to pre-pandemic levels; and (ii) to detail any benefits that exist for dentists treating NHS patients over private patients.","answerText":"Throughout much of 2021, we were seeing record levels of infection, and measures were in place in all industries and in all regions of the UK to minimise the risk of transmission. Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in healthcare settings have had a significant adverse effect on activity levels, with additional Personal Protective Equipment, social distancing, pre-appointment patient screening, and fallow time after aerosol generating procedures all contributing to a lower patient throughput in General Dental Services (GDS).\n\nIPC restrictions were relaxed in January and May 2022, and this, along with the introduction of the Rebuilding Support Scheme, which rewards dentists based on activity levels, has seen an increase in activity levels from 58% to 76% of pre-pandemic levels over the last 2 months.\n\nDue to the increasing waiting times in areas for dental check-ups and treatment, there has also been an unprecedented demand for more lucrative private dental treatment, which dental practices have been keen to address. Undoubtedly too, there are ongoing concerns from practitioners regarding the existing contract, which some feel undercompensates them for the Health Service work they are undertaking. A GDS Contract Reform Group has been established to help address these concerns.\n\nDentists in Northern Ireland continue to undertake a significant amount of Health Service dentistry every month. In addition to the payment for Items of Service (that makes up around 60% overall GDS spending) there are also a range of allowances available to dentists and practices, as well as a very generous pension scheme and maternity, paternity and sick pay benefits. Since the beginning of April 2022, the GDS Rebuilding Support Scheme has also been paying dentists an additional 25% on all dental treatments undertaken on Health Service patients.","answerHtml":"Throughout much of 2021, we were seeing record levels of infection, and measures were in place in all industries and in all regions of the UK to minimise the risk of transmission. Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures in healthcare settings have had a significant adverse effect on activity levels, with additional Personal Protective Equipment, social distancing, pre-appointment patient screening, and fallow time after aerosol generating procedures all contributing to a lower patient throughput in General Dental Services (GDS).
IPC restrictions were relaxed in January and May 2022, and this, along with the introduction of the Rebuilding Support Scheme, which rewards dentists based on activity levels, has seen an increase in activity levels from 58% to 76% of pre-pandemic levels over the last 2 months.
Due to the increasing waiting times in areas for dental check-ups and treatment, there has also been an unprecedented demand for more lucrative private dental treatment, which dental practices have been keen to address. Undoubtedly too, there are ongoing concerns from practitioners regarding the existing contract, which some feel undercompensates them for the Health Service work they are undertaking. A GDS Contract Reform Group has been established to help address these concerns.
Dentists in Northern Ireland continue to undertake a significant amount of Health Service dentistry every month. In addition to the payment for Items of Service (that makes up around 60% overall GDS spending) there are also a range of allowances available to dentists and practices, as well as a very generous pension scheme and maternity, paternity and sick pay benefits. Since the beginning of April 2022, the GDS Rebuilding Support Scheme has also been paying dentists an additional 25% on all dental treatments undertaken on Health Service patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202671%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377972","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377972"}},{"id":"377940","reference":"AQW 2639/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) Northern Ireland’s current disability employment strategy; and (ii) her plans to update this strategy.","answerText":"i) Northern Ireland’s current disability employment strategy - The Employment Strategy for People With Disabilities - was developed by the former Department for Employment and Learning in 2015. Responsibility for disability employment strategy transferred to the Department for Communities upon its formation in May 2016.\n\nii) This strategy is being replaced by a new disability and work strategy which is currently in preparation.","answerHtml":"i) Northern Ireland’s current disability employment strategy - The Employment Strategy for People With Disabilities - was developed by the former Department for Employment and Learning in 2015. Responsibility for disability employment strategy transferred to the Department for Communities upon its formation in May 2016.
ii) This strategy is being replaced by a new disability and work strategy which is currently in preparation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202639%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377940"}},{"id":"377939","reference":"AQW 2638/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-08-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the disability employment gap in Northern Ireland, which currently stands at 42 per cent, compared to the UK average of 28 per cent.","answerText":"The disability employment gap in Northern Ireland is significant and needs to be addressed.\n\nMy Department already provides a wide range of support for people with disabilities across the further and higher education sectors, in our training, reskilling and upskilling programmes, as well as through the Careers Service. We recognise that more needs to be done and my officials are working closely with the Department for Communities as they develop a Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department’s 10X economic vision strives for growth through innovation and for this growth to be inclusive. It recognises the need to capture how our economic policy improves the standard of living and wellbeing throughout society. We are clear that we want to design our policies and programmes so that the rewards are distributed fairly across people and places, creating opportunities for all.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s recently published Skills Strategy provides us with a key platform for driving forward responses to this type of under representation. The Skills Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (SEDI) sub-committee of the Northern Ireland Skills Council has been established to look at access and participation for those in under-represented or disadvantaged groups. The aim is to identify barriers and advise on policy solutions and actions to help drive change. Disability and access to skills has been one of the first substantive issues considered by the SEDI sub-committee and this work is continuing.","answerHtml":"The disability employment gap in Northern Ireland is significant and needs to be addressed.
My Department already provides a wide range of support for people with disabilities across the further and higher education sectors, in our training, reskilling and upskilling programmes, as well as through the Careers Service. We recognise that more needs to be done and my officials are working closely with the Department for Communities as they develop a Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland.
My Department’s 10X economic vision strives for growth through innovation and for this growth to be inclusive. It recognises the need to capture how our economic policy improves the standard of living and wellbeing throughout society. We are clear that we want to design our policies and programmes so that the rewards are distributed fairly across people and places, creating opportunities for all.
In addition, my Department’s recently published Skills Strategy provides us with a key platform for driving forward responses to this type of under representation. The Skills Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (SEDI) sub-committee of the Northern Ireland Skills Council has been established to look at access and participation for those in under-represented or disadvantaged groups. The aim is to identify barriers and advise on policy solutions and actions to help drive change. Disability and access to skills has been one of the first substantive issues considered by the SEDI sub-committee and this work is continuing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202638%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377939","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377939"}},{"id":"377938","reference":"AQW 2637/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-07-01","answerBy":"2022-07-20","answered":"2022-08-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail any training or employment schemes currently available for people with disabilities; (ii) for his assessment of the success of previous schemes; and (iii) what other support his Department offers disabled people seeking employment.","answerText":"The Department for Communities (DfC) has lead responsibility for employment policy and employment programmes, including for those with disabilities, and is currently developing a Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland, which my Department is contributing to. Minister Hargey would be best placed to respond on issues relating to existing or previous employment schemes and support for those seeking employment.\n\nIn relation to training and skills, my Department provides a range of practical, financial, and other support for people with disabilities to support them as they obtain the qualifications and skills to compete in the employment market. Support is available within the further and higher education sectors, as well as for those participating on the vocational training programmes funded by the Department.\n\nExamples include the Disabled Students Allowance for Higher Education students, a focus on disability through the Higher Education Widening Access and Participation Plans, the Additional Support Fund in Further Education, extended eligibility and flexibilities on the Skills for Life and Work programme, and specialist support through the Disability Support Service contract.\n\nIn addition, the 2014-2020 Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme has a dedicated theme to support those with Disabilities with the projects designed to promote employment opportunities and enhance social inclusion among people with disabilities.\n\nMy Department’s Careers Service also offer careers guidance interviews, during which any barriers to training or employment are discussed. Careers Advisors also participate in Transition Meetings, including significant follow-up work for young people with a disability at key transition points throughout their education and training journey.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities (DfC) has lead responsibility for employment policy and employment programmes, including for those with disabilities, and is currently developing a Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland, which my Department is contributing to. Minister Hargey would be best placed to respond on issues relating to existing or previous employment schemes and support for those seeking employment.
In relation to training and skills, my Department provides a range of practical, financial, and other support for people with disabilities to support them as they obtain the qualifications and skills to compete in the employment market. Support is available within the further and higher education sectors, as well as for those participating on the vocational training programmes funded by the Department.
Examples include the Disabled Students Allowance for Higher Education students, a focus on disability through the Higher Education Widening Access and Participation Plans, the Additional Support Fund in Further Education, extended eligibility and flexibilities on the Skills for Life and Work programme, and specialist support through the Disability Support Service contract.
In addition, the 2014-2020 Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme has a dedicated theme to support those with Disabilities with the projects designed to promote employment opportunities and enhance social inclusion among people with disabilities.
My Department’s Careers Service also offer careers guidance interviews, during which any barriers to training or employment are discussed. Careers Advisors also participate in Transition Meetings, including significant follow-up work for young people with a disability at key transition points throughout their education and training journey.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202637%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377938","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377938"}},{"id":"377713","reference":"AQW 2524/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the process for anyone wishing to purchase their Housing Association property before the House Sales Scheme for Tenants of Registered Housing Associations ends in August 2022; (ii) how the valuation of the property is determined; (iii) who conducts the valuation; and (iv) whether an independent valuation obtained by the buyer will be taken into consideration when determining a property’s value.","answerText":"Full details of the process for anyone wishing to purchase their Housing Association property before the House Sales Scheme for Tenants of Registered Housing Associations ends in August 2022 can be accessed on the Department’s website at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/disposal-housing-association-property.","answerHtml":"Full details of the process for anyone wishing to purchase their Housing Association property before the House Sales Scheme for Tenants of Registered Housing Associations ends in August 2022 can be accessed on the Department’s website at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/disposal-housing-association-property.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202524%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377713","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377713"}},{"id":"377699","reference":"AQW 2510/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether dentists are, on average, dedicating a smaller proportion of their time to seeing and treating NHS patients than in previous years; and (ii) to detail any figures collected or held by his Department regarding the proportion of their time dentists spend treating NHS patients as opposed to private patients.","answerText":"In recent months general dental activity levels have increased from around 55-60% or pre-pandemic levels to 76% as a result of new payment approach and the reducing impact of the pandemic. Specific information however is not collected by Business Service Organisation or the Department on the length of time dentists spend providing HSC or private treatment and is therefore not available.\n\nNHS Digital however carry out a biennial Dental Working Patterns Survey of primary care NHS/Health Service dentists in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The survey is based on a sample of all dentists. Information on average weekly hours, weeks of annual leave, the division of time between NHS/Health Service and private dentistry, and clinical and non-clinical work, is presented as well as measures of motivation and morale. The latest Dentists' Working Patterns, Motivation and Morale report for 2018/19 and 2019/20 can be found at the following link:\n\nhttps://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/dental-working-hours/2018-19-and-2019-20-working-patterns-motivation-and-morale","answerHtml":"In recent months general dental activity levels have increased from around 55-60% or pre-pandemic levels to 76% as a result of new payment approach and the reducing impact of the pandemic. Specific information however is not collected by Business Service Organisation or the Department on the length of time dentists spend providing HSC or private treatment and is therefore not available.
NHS Digital however carry out a biennial Dental Working Patterns Survey of primary care NHS/Health Service dentists in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The survey is based on a sample of all dentists. Information on average weekly hours, weeks of annual leave, the division of time between NHS/Health Service and private dentistry, and clinical and non-clinical work, is presented as well as measures of motivation and morale. The latest Dentists' Working Patterns, Motivation and Morale report for 2018/19 and 2019/20 can be found at the following link:
https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/dental-working-hours/2018-19-and-2019-20-working-patterns-motivation-and-morale
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202510%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377699","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377699"}},{"id":"377669","reference":"AQW 2480/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the total number of hours that dentists spent providing NHS treatment in each of the last five years; and (ii) these figures as a percentage of the total time dentists spent treating all patients.","answerText":"Information is not collected by Business Services Organisation on the length of time dentists spend providing Health & Social Care treatment and is therefore not available. Business Services Organisation does not hold any information in relation to private treatments that are carried out by dental practices.\n\nNHS Digital however carry out a biennial Dental Working Patterns Survey of primary care NHS/Health Service dentists in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The survey is based on a sample of all dentists. Information on average weekly hours, weeks of annual leave, the division of time between NHS/Health Service and private dentistry, and clinical and non-clinical work, is presented as well as measures of motivation and morale. The latest Dentists' Working Patterns, Motivation and Morale report for 2018/19 and 2019/20 can be found at the following link:\n\nhttps://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/dental-working-hours/2018-19-and-2019-20-working-patterns-motivation-and-morale","answerHtml":"Information is not collected by Business Services Organisation on the length of time dentists spend providing Health & Social Care treatment and is therefore not available. Business Services Organisation does not hold any information in relation to private treatments that are carried out by dental practices.
NHS Digital however carry out a biennial Dental Working Patterns Survey of primary care NHS/Health Service dentists in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. The survey is based on a sample of all dentists. Information on average weekly hours, weeks of annual leave, the division of time between NHS/Health Service and private dentistry, and clinical and non-clinical work, is presented as well as measures of motivation and morale. The latest Dentists' Working Patterns, Motivation and Morale report for 2018/19 and 2019/20 can be found at the following link:
https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/dental-working-hours/2018-19-and-2019-20-working-patterns-motivation-and-morale
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202480%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377669"}},{"id":"377668","reference":"AQW 2479/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-08-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the impact that limited local seweage capacity has on house construction in areas in need of both private and social housing; and (ii) what conversations she has had with the Minister for Infrastructure to ensure that adequate sewerage capacity exists in areas in need of additional housing.","answerText":"The potential implications for the development of social housing due to infrastructural issues has been of concern, particularly given the increasing levels of housing stress and need and the risks to the achievement of target delivery in future years. Capacity restrictions of water/sewerage infrastructure are routinely highlighted to my Department, as an issue impacting on the delivery of social housing particularly in areas of high housing need.\n\nI have led work to develop a fundamental Housing Supply Strategy which is aimed at identifying and unlocking major levers for increasing supply across all housing tenures. I recognise that wastewater infrastructure is one of those key levers that can address our housing supply issues and my officials have been engaged with DfI officials throughout the Strategy development process.\n\nMy officials have and will continue to engage with DfI and NI Water as well as key stakeholders to explore what actions can be taken to find solutions to these issues. I have also recently met with the DfI Minister to discuss issues which impact on both our Departments. Following this it has been agreed that a further meeting will take place with officials from both Departments to examine this issue in more depth.","answerHtml":"The potential implications for the development of social housing due to infrastructural issues has been of concern, particularly given the increasing levels of housing stress and need and the risks to the achievement of target delivery in future years. Capacity restrictions of water/sewerage infrastructure are routinely highlighted to my Department, as an issue impacting on the delivery of social housing particularly in areas of high housing need.
I have led work to develop a fundamental Housing Supply Strategy which is aimed at identifying and unlocking major levers for increasing supply across all housing tenures. I recognise that wastewater infrastructure is one of those key levers that can address our housing supply issues and my officials have been engaged with DfI officials throughout the Strategy development process.
My officials have and will continue to engage with DfI and NI Water as well as key stakeholders to explore what actions can be taken to find solutions to these issues. I have also recently met with the DfI Minister to discuss issues which impact on both our Departments. Following this it has been agreed that a further meeting will take place with officials from both Departments to examine this issue in more depth.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202479%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377668"}},{"id":"377667","reference":"AQW 2478/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-30","answerBy":"2022-07-19","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the areas where the available sewerage capacity is currently at a level that prohibits the construction of new housing developments; and (ii) the work his department is doing to increase capacity to facilitate construction of more homes.","answerText":"Work undertaken to increase sewerage capacity to facilitate the construction of more homes is an operational matter for NI Water, who will also retain information in relation to areas where sewerage capacity is currently prohibiting new housing development. You should therefore, direct your question to NI Water at waterline@niwater.com.","answerHtml":"Work undertaken to increase sewerage capacity to facilitate the construction of more homes is an operational matter for NI Water, who will also retain information in relation to areas where sewerage capacity is currently prohibiting new housing development. You should therefore, direct your question to NI Water at waterline@niwater.com.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202478%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377667"}},{"id":"377495","reference":"AQW 2385/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what consideration has been given to raising the minimum age for purchasing tobacco each year by one year.","answerText":"The recent independent review into smokefree policies, led by Dr Javed Khan OBE, recommended that the UK Government raise the age of sale for purchasing tobacco each year by one year. The aim of the recommendation is to create a tobacco free generation where young people below a certain age are legally prevented from buying tobacco products throughout their entire lifetime. Whilst the Khan recommendations do not relate directly to NI the recommendations, along with the UK Government response, will be considered within a NI context particularly during the ongoing review of our tobacco control strategy and in the development of our subsequent strategic approach. I am keen to explore all avenues that reduce the unacceptable harm and health disparities caused by smoking.","answerHtml":"The recent independent review into smokefree policies, led by Dr Javed Khan OBE, recommended that the UK Government raise the age of sale for purchasing tobacco each year by one year. The aim of the recommendation is to create a tobacco free generation where young people below a certain age are legally prevented from buying tobacco products throughout their entire lifetime. Whilst the Khan recommendations do not relate directly to NI the recommendations, along with the UK Government response, will be considered within a NI context particularly during the ongoing review of our tobacco control strategy and in the development of our subsequent strategic approach. I am keen to explore all avenues that reduce the unacceptable harm and health disparities caused by smoking.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202385%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377495"}},{"id":"377494","reference":"AQW 2384/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail her long-term plan to support more lower-income households who are facing price increases for food, goods and services.","answerText":"The fact we still have no functioning Executive or an agreed Executive budget means Departments are facing serious challenges.\n\nDespite this, I am committed to doing all within my power to put money into peoples’ pockets. I have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all options to address both the immediate needs of, and medium to longer term solutions to, the cost of living crisis.\n\nI have also reconvened the Emergencies Leadership Group as part of a strategic response to the cost of living crisis. The group brings together leaders from the voluntary and community sector who are on the frontline, assisting workers, families and communities who are enduring real hardship as the crisis deepens. The group will advise, inform and shape the emerging policy and operational response to the cost of living crisis.","answerHtml":"The fact we still have no functioning Executive or an agreed Executive budget means Departments are facing serious challenges.
Despite this, I am committed to doing all within my power to put money into peoples’ pockets. I have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all options to address both the immediate needs of, and medium to longer term solutions to, the cost of living crisis.
I have also reconvened the Emergencies Leadership Group as part of a strategic response to the cost of living crisis. The group brings together leaders from the voluntary and community sector who are on the frontline, assisting workers, families and communities who are enduring real hardship as the crisis deepens. The group will advise, inform and shape the emerging policy and operational response to the cost of living crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202384%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377494"}},{"id":"377493","reference":"AQW 2383/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of dental practices that have (i) stopped; and (ii) started, treating NHS patients in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2022, 23 practices are no longer contracted to carry out health service dental work. Table 1 details this information, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nTable 1: Dental premises no longer contracted to carry out health service dental work1 between 1st April 2016 and 31st March 2022\n\nHealth and Social Care Trust\tFinancial Year\n2016-17\t2017-18\t2018-19\t2019-20\t2020-21\t2021-22\nBelfast\t-\t-\t2\t2\t-\t1\nNorthern\t-\t2\t1\t2\t-\t1\nSouth Eastern\t2\t-\t-\t2\t-\t1\nSouthern\t1\t-\t1\t-\t2\t-\nWestern\t-\t-\t-\t-\t2\t1\nTotal\t3\t2\t4\t6\t4\t4\n\n1 Although these practices have closed, they may have merged with other practices or transferred their patient lists to other dentists.\n\nBetween 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2022, there have been 9 practices which have commenced carrying out Health Service dental work. Table 2 details this information broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nTable 2: Dental premises that commenced carrying out health service dental work between 1st April 2016 and 31 March 2022\n\nHealth and Social Care Trust\tFinancial Year\n2016-17\t2017-18\t2018-19\t2019-20\t2020-21\t2021-22\nBelfast\t1\t-\t1\t-\t-\t-\nNorthern\t-\t-\t1\t1\t-\t1\nSouth Eastern\t-\t1\t-\t1\t-\t-\nSouthern\t-\t1\t-\t-\t-\t-\nWestern\t-\t-\t1\t-\t-\t-\nTotal\t1\t2\t3\t2\t-\t1","answerHtml":"Between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2022, 23 practices are no longer contracted to carry out health service dental work. Table 1 details this information, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.
Table 1: Dental premises no longer contracted to carry out health service dental work1 between 1st April 2016 and 31st March 2022
| Health and Social Care Trust | Financial Year | |||||
| 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | |
| Belfast | - | - | 2 | 2 | - | 1 |
| Northern | - | 2 | 1 | 2 | - | 1 |
| South Eastern | 2 | - | - | 2 | - | 1 |
| Southern | 1 | - | 1 | - | 2 | - |
| Western | - | - | - | - | 2 | 1 |
| Total | 3 | 2 | 4 | 6 | 4 | 4 |
1 Although these practices have closed, they may have merged with other practices or transferred their patient lists to other dentists.
Between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2022, there have been 9 practices which have commenced carrying out Health Service dental work. Table 2 details this information broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.
Table 2: Dental premises that commenced carrying out health service dental work between 1st April 2016 and 31 March 2022
| Health and Social Care Trust | Financial Year | |||||
| 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 | 2021-22 | |
| Belfast | 1 | - | 1 | - | - | - |
| Northern | - | - | 1 | 1 | - | 1 |
| South Eastern | - | 1 | - | 1 | - | - |
| Southern | - | 1 | - | - | - | - |
| Western | - | - | 1 | - | - | - |
| Total | 1 | 2 | 3 | 2 | - | 1 |
(i) In order to support the large number of people living with pain, while awaiting surgery, the Northern Ireland Pain Forum has been established. The aim of this forum is to develop and improve services across Northern Ireland (NI) for people living with a wide range of painful health conditions. The membership of this forum spans voluntary organisations such as Versus Arthritis, Healthy Living Centres, service users and clinicians from many disciplines and organisations including primary and secondary care.
All HSC Trusts offer pain and condition management programmes when access criteria are met for those individuals with a range of physical and mental health conditions, including chronic pain, and GPs continue to provide core services to their registered patients including access to allied health professional services, such as physiotherapy. Funding is also being provided to Versus Arthritis and the Healthy Living Centre Alliance to deliver self-management programmes in order to support adults living with all forms of persistent pain and long-term health conditions, including those on waiting lists.
(ii)When a patient is told that they require surgery, they are advised of the indicative timescale in which that surgery is likely to take place. In NI patients are managed chronologically, based on their clinical need, with urgent patients seen and treated first and management of waiting lists being one of the mechanisms that upholds the principle of equity of access to HSC services. Patients can ask for an updated indicative timescale at any time, and Trusts will normally make contact with the patient close to the time when a date for surgery can be offered.
(iii)One of the key actions of the Elective Care Framework which I published in June 2021 is the delivery of a recovery plan for orthopaedics by the Northern Ireland Orthopaedic Network, which will set out the priority actions, targets and timescales to bring orthopaedic activity back to commissioned levels and to increase activity as rapidly as possible.
In April my Department commissioned a rapid independent external review of the regional orthopaedic service in NI, to identify proposals for the immediate recovery of the service. The Review was undertaken by a team from the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital (RNOH), Getting It Right First Time (GIRFT) Projects Directorate.
The report detailed 21 recommendations, which were designed to increase activity in the short term with the overall aim of building a sustainable service for the future. All 21 recommendations have been fully accepted by the Department, and work is already well underway to implement these.
The recommendations describe the need to ring fence staff and beds for elective orthopaedics, and for the creation of an Orthopaedic Elective Surgery Recovery Board to provide oversight to Trusts throughout the rebuild process.
The Recovery Board is now established and operational, and through collaboration across all Trusts, I am confident that we will see a return to pre-COVID levels of activity in Musgrave Park Hospital by 1 November 2022, and as quickly as possible at the other sites.
I welcome the findings of the review, and am fully committed to ensuring that elective orthopaedic activity is scaled up and that that we can successfully rebuild the service to ensure that patients receive much needed orthopaedic treatment as quickly as possible.
Additional capacity has also been secured outside of the HSC through the Independent Sector (IS) to help patients on HSC waiting lists receive treatment more quickly. For example, an insourcing arrangement is currently underway in the South West Acute Hospital (SWAH) in Western Trust. Through this arrangement, an IS provider is using HSC facilities to treat patients on orthopaedic waiting lists for hip replacement surgery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202382%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377492"}},{"id":"377491","reference":"AQW 2381/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-29","answerBy":"2022-07-18","answered":"2022-08-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the current provision of psychiatrists; and (ii) what steps he is taking to (a) fill current vacancies; and (b) increase the number of training places for psychiatrists.","answerText":"The supply of Consultant Psychiatrists is a concern for all Trusts across NI, with more roles available than individuals to fill them. Issues in relation to medical workforce planning, limited commissioned training places, differences in pay and conditions and early retirements are resulting in a reduced available consultant psychiatry workforce, both on a permanent and locum basis.\n\nA review of the Mental Health workforce, one of the enabling actions in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, is currently underway, and a range of workforce issues, including recruitment and retention, is included as part of that review. The final report is anticipated by early autumn.\n\nThere are currently 94 training places across psychiatry training programmes in Northern Ireland, including core and higher level programmes.\n\nPsychiatry training programme places – 2022/2023\nPosition at 3 August 2022\nSpecialties\tPlaces\nCore Psychiatry Training (Core Trainee 1-Core Trainee 3)\t51\nChild & Adolescent Psychiatry (Specialty Trainee 4+)\t9\nForensic Psychiatry (Specialty Trainee 4+)\t4\nGeneral Adult Psychiatry (Specialty Trainee 4+)\t22\nPsychiatry of Intellectual Disability (Specialty Trainee 4+)\t4\nPsychiatry of Old Age (Specialty Trainee 4+)\t4\nTotal places\t94\n\nA strategic workforce review of the psychiatric specialties was recently carried out. The resulting Medical Workforce Plan for Psychiatry Specialties 2022 – 2031 is currently being considered by my Department. When this process has been completed, the report will be published on the Department’s website.\n\nI have stated my ongoing commitment to implement recommendations made as part of the strategic workforce planning process, including any that arise from this report. However, as I have noted on many occasions, planning is ultimately meaningless without the necessary financial resources in place to supply and develop our workforce.\n\nUnfortunately, the current funding being made available to my Department is not sufficient to meet existing or new workforce planning recommendations. In addition, single-year budgets constrain the assessment of affordability, frustrating long-term investment in the multi-year training programmes. It is therefore essential that a multi-year budget is confirmed at the earliest opportunity, so that the difficult, long-term decisions about the prioritisation of finances for issues such as psychiatric training, can be made.","answerHtml":"The supply of Consultant Psychiatrists is a concern for all Trusts across NI, with more roles available than individuals to fill them. Issues in relation to medical workforce planning, limited commissioned training places, differences in pay and conditions and early retirements are resulting in a reduced available consultant psychiatry workforce, both on a permanent and locum basis.
A review of the Mental Health workforce, one of the enabling actions in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, is currently underway, and a range of workforce issues, including recruitment and retention, is included as part of that review. The final report is anticipated by early autumn.
There are currently 94 training places across psychiatry training programmes in Northern Ireland, including core and higher level programmes.
| Psychiatry training programme places – 2022/2023 | |
| Position at 3 August 2022 | |
| Specialties | Places |
| Core Psychiatry Training (Core Trainee 1-Core Trainee 3) | 51 |
| Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (Specialty Trainee 4+) | 9 |
| Forensic Psychiatry (Specialty Trainee 4+) | 4 |
| General Adult Psychiatry (Specialty Trainee 4+) | 22 |
| Psychiatry of Intellectual Disability (Specialty Trainee 4+) | 4 |
| Psychiatry of Old Age (Specialty Trainee 4+) | 4 |
| Total places | 94 |
A strategic workforce review of the psychiatric specialties was recently carried out. The resulting Medical Workforce Plan for Psychiatry Specialties 2022 – 2031 is currently being considered by my Department. When this process has been completed, the report will be published on the Department’s website.
I have stated my ongoing commitment to implement recommendations made as part of the strategic workforce planning process, including any that arise from this report. However, as I have noted on many occasions, planning is ultimately meaningless without the necessary financial resources in place to supply and develop our workforce.
Unfortunately, the current funding being made available to my Department is not sufficient to meet existing or new workforce planning recommendations. In addition, single-year budgets constrain the assessment of affordability, frustrating long-term investment in the multi-year training programmes. It is therefore essential that a multi-year budget is confirmed at the earliest opportunity, so that the difficult, long-term decisions about the prioritisation of finances for issues such as psychiatric training, can be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202381%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377491"}},{"id":"377352","reference":"AQW 2298/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the Neighbourhood Renewal funding system; and (ii) to detail any plans she has to review this system.","answerText":"Neighbourhood Renewal Programme and investment remains the Executive’s main place based strategy to target those communities suffering the highest levels of deprivation.\n\nIn recognition of the value of the services supported through the programme, I have protected the NR revenue budget since taking office in 2020.\n\nThe review of the existing ‘People and Place - a strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal’ is currently underway with an inclusive co-design approach","answerHtml":"Neighbourhood Renewal Programme and investment remains the Executive’s main place based strategy to target those communities suffering the highest levels of deprivation.
In recognition of the value of the services supported through the programme, I have protected the NR revenue budget since taking office in 2020.
The review of the existing ‘People and Place - a strategy for Neighbourhood Renewal’ is currently underway with an inclusive co-design approach
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202298%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377352"}},{"id":"377351","reference":"AQW 2297/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the care and support made available to pregnant and pre-conception women who have suffered (a) one; (b) two; and (c) three or more miscarriages; and (ii) what steps he is taking to introduce a specialist care pathway for high risk women wishing to conceive.","answerText":"Women who have suffered miscarriage may be referred by their GP to the gynaecology service for investigation. The criteria for referral currently are:\n\nall women with 3 or more consecutive miscarriages;\n\nall women with 1 or more second trimester miscarriages;\n\nall women with a history of miscarriage and an associated condition such as antiphospholipid syndrome, PCOS, chronic medical disorder; and\n\nall women over 35 years old with 2 or more miscarriages.\n\nIn addition to trying to establish the cause of a miscarriage, all Trusts in Northern Ireland have a bereavement midwife, early pregnancy unit and services available for women who have experienced miscarriage.\n\nIn January 2021, I announced funding to establish a new specialist perinatal mental health community service model, to respond to the varying mental health needs of mothers, including those who have experienced a miscarriage. Specialist perinatal mental health services are being implemented on a phased approach, with phase one focussing on the roll out of community perinatal mental health teams across the region. Services in the Belfast Trust and the South Eastern Trust are operational and accepting referrals, with work being progressed in the other Trust areas to commence service delivery as soon as possible.\n\nIn parallel, preliminary scoping work has also commenced on the establishment of a Mother and Baby Unit for the region which includes engagement with Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nThe existing Antenatal Core Care Pathway helps to identify those women, including those women at high risk, who require some or all of their care by an obstetrician and ensures that this care is provided in line with individual needs.\n\nIn addition, a Pre-Conceptual Care Sub-Group of the Maternity Strategy Implementation Group has been established which will address the need for a care pathway for women with long-term conditions who are planning to conceive or who are pregnant.\n\nFurthermore, the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence Guideline NG 126, ‘Ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage: diagnosis and initial management’, which was endorsed by the Department in June 2019, was updated in November 2021 to reflect new recommendations on the use of progesterone in cases of threatened miscarriage. It is expected that the HSC will implement these new recommendations.","answerHtml":"Women who have suffered miscarriage may be referred by their GP to the gynaecology service for investigation. The criteria for referral currently are:
all women with 3 or more consecutive miscarriages;
all women with 1 or more second trimester miscarriages;
all women with a history of miscarriage and an associated condition such as antiphospholipid syndrome, PCOS, chronic medical disorder; and
all women over 35 years old with 2 or more miscarriages.
In addition to trying to establish the cause of a miscarriage, all Trusts in Northern Ireland have a bereavement midwife, early pregnancy unit and services available for women who have experienced miscarriage.
In January 2021, I announced funding to establish a new specialist perinatal mental health community service model, to respond to the varying mental health needs of mothers, including those who have experienced a miscarriage. Specialist perinatal mental health services are being implemented on a phased approach, with phase one focussing on the roll out of community perinatal mental health teams across the region. Services in the Belfast Trust and the South Eastern Trust are operational and accepting referrals, with work being progressed in the other Trust areas to commence service delivery as soon as possible.
In parallel, preliminary scoping work has also commenced on the establishment of a Mother and Baby Unit for the region which includes engagement with Health and Social Care Trusts.
The existing Antenatal Core Care Pathway helps to identify those women, including those women at high risk, who require some or all of their care by an obstetrician and ensures that this care is provided in line with individual needs.
In addition, a Pre-Conceptual Care Sub-Group of the Maternity Strategy Implementation Group has been established which will address the need for a care pathway for women with long-term conditions who are planning to conceive or who are pregnant.
Furthermore, the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence Guideline NG 126, ‘Ectopic pregnancy and miscarriage: diagnosis and initial management’, which was endorsed by the Department in June 2019, was updated in November 2021 to reflect new recommendations on the use of progesterone in cases of threatened miscarriage. It is expected that the HSC will implement these new recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202297%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377351"}},{"id":"377350","reference":"AQW 2296/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what consideration he has given to developing up to date infrastructure plans for areas that experience high numbers of tourists in the summer months.","answerText":"The planning system has a key role in managing tourism related development through planning policies and in integrating tourism provision with necessary infrastructure. Seasonal impacts of high numbers of tourists on areas are likely to be limited to specific towns and attractions and are likely to be limited to roads and parking issues rather than other impacts.\n\nDue to these localised impacts Local Development Plans (LDPs), prepared by councils, are best placed to set out planning policy in respect of new tourist development. The preparation of an LDP provides the opportunity to assess the transport needs, problems and opportunities within the plan area and to ensure that appropriate consideration is given to transportation issues in the allocation of land for future development. The preparation of local transport studies by councils will assist in this process.\n\nThe Department is in the process of developing a new suite of Transport Plans alongside the councils’ Local Development Plans (LDPs) that will set out the framework for transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035. The Transport Plans will take account of transport needs across the region and will reflect councils’ ambitions in their LDPs, including as it relates to tourism. Furthermore the Transport Plans will facilitate engagement with other stakeholders to ensure that a wide range of views are taken into account as they are developed. As the Transport Plans are being produced alongside the councils’ Local Development Plans their timescales will reflect that of the councils’ plans.","answerHtml":"The planning system has a key role in managing tourism related development through planning policies and in integrating tourism provision with necessary infrastructure. Seasonal impacts of high numbers of tourists on areas are likely to be limited to specific towns and attractions and are likely to be limited to roads and parking issues rather than other impacts.
Due to these localised impacts Local Development Plans (LDPs), prepared by councils, are best placed to set out planning policy in respect of new tourist development. The preparation of an LDP provides the opportunity to assess the transport needs, problems and opportunities within the plan area and to ensure that appropriate consideration is given to transportation issues in the allocation of land for future development. The preparation of local transport studies by councils will assist in this process.
The Department is in the process of developing a new suite of Transport Plans alongside the councils’ Local Development Plans (LDPs) that will set out the framework for transport policy and investment decisions up until 2035. The Transport Plans will take account of transport needs across the region and will reflect councils’ ambitions in their LDPs, including as it relates to tourism. Furthermore the Transport Plans will facilitate engagement with other stakeholders to ensure that a wide range of views are taken into account as they are developed. As the Transport Plans are being produced alongside the councils’ Local Development Plans their timescales will reflect that of the councils’ plans.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202296%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377350"}},{"id":"377349","reference":"AQW 2295/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the progress of the single post-primary transfer test, due to be in place for 2024; and (ii) what details she can provide to schools, parents and pupils regarding preparation for the test.","answerText":"The Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group (SEAG) was formally established earlier this year to oversee a single common entrance assessment. Following a competitive tender process, GL Assessment Ltd in England have been awarded a 3 year contract to provide the tests. Staff have been appointed locally to oversee the administration.\n\nThe new testing format will consist of two papers held on two Saturdays, two weeks apart (provisionally scheduled for Saturday 12 November 2023 and Saturday 26 November 2023). Entry will cost £20 per pupil but will be free for pupils entitled to Free School Meals. Both tests will contribute to candidates’ scores. I have been advised that the tests will focus on the literacy and numeracy content of the curriculum at Key Stage 2. There will be a mixture of multiple choice and open questions.\n\nIn terms of preparation for the tests, I am advised that, as the test is still being developed, practice papers will not be available to schools, parents and pupils.\n\nMy officials will be meeting with representatives from the Group in due course and the SEAG’s website will be updated as progress is made.","answerHtml":"The Schools’ Entrance Assessment Group (SEAG) was formally established earlier this year to oversee a single common entrance assessment. Following a competitive tender process, GL Assessment Ltd in England have been awarded a 3 year contract to provide the tests. Staff have been appointed locally to oversee the administration.
The new testing format will consist of two papers held on two Saturdays, two weeks apart (provisionally scheduled for Saturday 12 November 2023 and Saturday 26 November 2023). Entry will cost £20 per pupil but will be free for pupils entitled to Free School Meals. Both tests will contribute to candidates’ scores. I have been advised that the tests will focus on the literacy and numeracy content of the curriculum at Key Stage 2. There will be a mixture of multiple choice and open questions.
In terms of preparation for the tests, I am advised that, as the test is still being developed, practice papers will not be available to schools, parents and pupils.
My officials will be meeting with representatives from the Group in due course and the SEAG’s website will be updated as progress is made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202295%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377349"}},{"id":"377348","reference":"AQW 2294/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-28","answerBy":"2022-07-15","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what work he has done to investigate and optimise tourist opportunities arising from the north coast’s links with the Spanish Armada, including wrecks such as La Girona.","answerText":"Tourism NI are tasked with growing the tourism economy in Northern Ireland and as such must take into account which parts of the heritage portfolio have the strongest potential to appeal to domestic and international markets, generate revenue, increase visitors and provide employment in the process.\n\nWhilst the story of the Spanish Armada is compelling, it is a lesser-known part of the history of the North Coast and in terms of revenue generation would not be in a position to compete with the key sites of the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy Harbour or Dunluce Castle. As such, at this time Tourism NI do not hold specific market intelligence on the tourism potential of the Girona and the Spanish Armada.\n\nHowever, like many parts of our culture and heritage, provides a further opportunity for visitors to explore more and stay longer. A range of Girona and Spanish linked experiences are available across Northern Ireland, including the North Coast.The history of the Spanish Armada is covered in the La Trinidad Valencera permanent exhibition located within the Tower Museum in Londonderry. There are discussions underway to promote the gateway linkage of Londonderry and the Causeway Coastal Route and beyond. As part of this work the links with the Spanish Armada could be further explored. In addition, Tourism NI are also supporting Derry City & Strabane District Council on their Derry on the North Atlantic (DNA) museum project as part of their City Deal programme.\n\nIt is proposed that the new museum will comprise galleries dedicated to ‘Discoveries of the Deep’ and ‘Sunken Treasures’, relating in part to the La Trinidad Valencera, the Spanish Armada and the exciting stories, discoveries and artefacts uncovered by the City of Londonderry Sub Aqua Club in 1971.\n\nTourism NI has supported the development of a bespoke sea-tour, Giant Shipwrecks of the North Coast, operated by Aquaholics which covers a number of wreck sites around the North Coast and Rathlin Island. This tour specifically covers the story of the Spanish Armada and visits the Girona wreck location.\n\nTourism NI has provided videography and photography assets for this experience to allow for the marketing and promotion of the offer. Tourism NI has also provided training and mentoring to the operator and market and quality testing of the experience as part of the Embrace a Giant Spirit experience brand journey. Aquaholics also received £42 920 from the Experience Development Programme 2020/21 for investment into diving equipment.\n\nFurthermore, Tourism NI are supporting Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council as part of their £72m Growth Deal. One of the key tourism projects being considered is Dunluce Castle and an opportunity exists to feature stories and information relating to Girona and the Spanish Armada, however this project is still at a very early conceptual stage.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI are tasked with growing the tourism economy in Northern Ireland and as such must take into account which parts of the heritage portfolio have the strongest potential to appeal to domestic and international markets, generate revenue, increase visitors and provide employment in the process.
Whilst the story of the Spanish Armada is compelling, it is a lesser-known part of the history of the North Coast and in terms of revenue generation would not be in a position to compete with the key sites of the Giant’s Causeway, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, Ballintoy Harbour or Dunluce Castle. As such, at this time Tourism NI do not hold specific market intelligence on the tourism potential of the Girona and the Spanish Armada.
However, like many parts of our culture and heritage, provides a further opportunity for visitors to explore more and stay longer. A range of Girona and Spanish linked experiences are available across Northern Ireland, including the North Coast.The history of the Spanish Armada is covered in the La Trinidad Valencera permanent exhibition located within the Tower Museum in Londonderry. There are discussions underway to promote the gateway linkage of Londonderry and the Causeway Coastal Route and beyond. As part of this work the links with the Spanish Armada could be further explored. In addition, Tourism NI are also supporting Derry City & Strabane District Council on their Derry on the North Atlantic (DNA) museum project as part of their City Deal programme.
It is proposed that the new museum will comprise galleries dedicated to ‘Discoveries of the Deep’ and ‘Sunken Treasures’, relating in part to the La Trinidad Valencera, the Spanish Armada and the exciting stories, discoveries and artefacts uncovered by the City of Londonderry Sub Aqua Club in 1971.
Tourism NI has supported the development of a bespoke sea-tour, Giant Shipwrecks of the North Coast, operated by Aquaholics which covers a number of wreck sites around the North Coast and Rathlin Island. This tour specifically covers the story of the Spanish Armada and visits the Girona wreck location.
Tourism NI has provided videography and photography assets for this experience to allow for the marketing and promotion of the offer. Tourism NI has also provided training and mentoring to the operator and market and quality testing of the experience as part of the Embrace a Giant Spirit experience brand journey. Aquaholics also received £42 920 from the Experience Development Programme 2020/21 for investment into diving equipment.
Furthermore, Tourism NI are supporting Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council as part of their £72m Growth Deal. One of the key tourism projects being considered is Dunluce Castle and an opportunity exists to feature stories and information relating to Girona and the Spanish Armada, however this project is still at a very early conceptual stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202294%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377348"}},{"id":"377048","reference":"AQW 2135/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-24","answerBy":"2022-07-11","answered":"2022-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the required processes and costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos in privately owned buildings; and (ii) any plans he has for reducing these costs.","answerText":"The required processes associated with the removal of asbestos from privately owned properties are the responsibility of the Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), the independent body responsible for health and safety policy and the enforcement of health and safety law in Northern Ireland.\n\nHSENI strongly encourages the use of trained professionals for removing and disposal of asbestos containing materials (ACM). This is especially the case if the ACM is a higher risk material such as asbestos insulation board (AIB), ceiling tiles or thermal insulation, as these materials contain a higher percentage of asbestos and readily release carcinogenic fibres to the atmosphere if disturbed or damaged. Any handling or removal of ACMs requires the right personal protective equipment to be worn and safe working methods followed, to prevent fibres from becoming airborne and being inhaled.\n\nIn the event that asbestos is being removed by a contractor or other person for gain, then they must comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulation (NI) 2012.\n\nAsbestos containing materials are classified as ‘Hazardous Waste’ and must not be disposed with household waste. The material should be double wrapped in labelled polythene sacks or sheeting before they are transported for disposal at a licensed waste disposal site.\n\nWhere asbestos waste is produced by the householder, or by someone acting on behalf of the householder, and not for gain, the householder may either:\n\nEmploy a licensed waste carrier or a licensed asbestos contractor (as long as he is also a licensed waste carrier) to arrange disposal on their behalf to a suitably licensed site. A statutory hazardous waste tracking document called a consignment note with a unique serial number purchased from NIEA must be obtained by the carrier/contractor in accordance with the Hazardous Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005 and must accompany the movement of the asbestos material to the licenced disposal site. The carrier/contractor must leave a copy of the consignment note with the householder; or\n\nThe Householder may bring the ACM to the licensed site themselves. The householder will need to contact the site in advance of travelling to find out whether any specific conditions apply. A private householder does not require a waste carrier’s license nor a consignment note.\n\nWhere asbestos waste is produced by a contractor (plumber, joiner, builder or other party acting for gain) they are responsible for disposing of the waste. If they are\n\ntaking the waste themselves to a licenced site then they must hold a waste carrier’s license (issued by NIEA) and use a consignment note. The asbestos can only be taken to a site specifically licensed to accept it. Alternatively, the contractor can employ another contractor who is licensed to carry and dispose of such waste.\n\nRegarding costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos from privately owned buildings, the Department (NIEA) charges a fee of £24 for the supply of each serial consignment number to consignors of hazardous waste for use on the consignment note that tracks the waste movement. This fee has not been increased since it was inaugurated in 1998. All other costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos, i.e. contractor labour costs incurred in dismantling/removal and packaging the asbestos, carriage costs and waste transfer station/landfill site charges are set on a commercial basis by the waste industry. I can advise that I have no plans to reduce the fee for the supply of serial consignment numbers to the consignors of hazardous waste materials (e.g. ACM).","answerHtml":"The required processes associated with the removal of asbestos from privately owned properties are the responsibility of the Health & Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), the independent body responsible for health and safety policy and the enforcement of health and safety law in Northern Ireland.
HSENI strongly encourages the use of trained professionals for removing and disposal of asbestos containing materials (ACM). This is especially the case if the ACM is a higher risk material such as asbestos insulation board (AIB), ceiling tiles or thermal insulation, as these materials contain a higher percentage of asbestos and readily release carcinogenic fibres to the atmosphere if disturbed or damaged. Any handling or removal of ACMs requires the right personal protective equipment to be worn and safe working methods followed, to prevent fibres from becoming airborne and being inhaled.
In the event that asbestos is being removed by a contractor or other person for gain, then they must comply with the Control of Asbestos Regulation (NI) 2012.
Asbestos containing materials are classified as ‘Hazardous Waste’ and must not be disposed with household waste. The material should be double wrapped in labelled polythene sacks or sheeting before they are transported for disposal at a licensed waste disposal site.
Where asbestos waste is produced by the householder, or by someone acting on behalf of the householder, and not for gain, the householder may either:
Employ a licensed waste carrier or a licensed asbestos contractor (as long as he is also a licensed waste carrier) to arrange disposal on their behalf to a suitably licensed site. A statutory hazardous waste tracking document called a consignment note with a unique serial number purchased from NIEA must be obtained by the carrier/contractor in accordance with the Hazardous Waste Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005 and must accompany the movement of the asbestos material to the licenced disposal site. The carrier/contractor must leave a copy of the consignment note with the householder; or
The Householder may bring the ACM to the licensed site themselves. The householder will need to contact the site in advance of travelling to find out whether any specific conditions apply. A private householder does not require a waste carrier’s license nor a consignment note.
Where asbestos waste is produced by a contractor (plumber, joiner, builder or other party acting for gain) they are responsible for disposing of the waste. If they are
taking the waste themselves to a licenced site then they must hold a waste carrier’s license (issued by NIEA) and use a consignment note. The asbestos can only be taken to a site specifically licensed to accept it. Alternatively, the contractor can employ another contractor who is licensed to carry and dispose of such waste.
Regarding costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos from privately owned buildings, the Department (NIEA) charges a fee of £24 for the supply of each serial consignment number to consignors of hazardous waste for use on the consignment note that tracks the waste movement. This fee has not been increased since it was inaugurated in 1998. All other costs associated with the removal and disposal of asbestos, i.e. contractor labour costs incurred in dismantling/removal and packaging the asbestos, carriage costs and waste transfer station/landfill site charges are set on a commercial basis by the waste industry. I can advise that I have no plans to reduce the fee for the supply of serial consignment numbers to the consignors of hazardous waste materials (e.g. ACM).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202135%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377048","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377048"}},{"id":"377047","reference":"AQW 2134/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-24","answerBy":"2022-07-11","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients who have sought Health Service medical care as a result of privately administered Botox and lip-filler cosmetic treatments in each of the last five years.","answerText":"As such data is not collected centrally by my Department, each of the five Health & Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) were asked for input to this question. Responses have been collated below:\n\nBelfast HSCT Co-Director of Surgery stated that they were not aware of any cases of medical care required for Botox / lip-filler cosmetic treatments in the last 5 years.\n\nNorthern HSCT stated that there have been no known cases of medical care required for Botox / lip-filler cosmetic treatments in the last five years.\n\nSouth Eastern HSCT cannot provide a response, as the Trust does not collate such information and would therefore need to conduct a manual trawl through the records of all the emergency admissions in the last 5 years, at disproportionate cost.\n\nWestern HSCT stated that they are unable to advise if a patient has previously been treated privately for such procedures or has either been admitted to hospital or attended at A&E as a result of such procedures.\n\nSouthern HSCT did not provide a response and it is assumed that they could not provide a response within the time-frame provided.","answerHtml":"As such data is not collected centrally by my Department, each of the five Health & Social Care Trusts (HSCTs) were asked for input to this question. Responses have been collated below:
Belfast HSCT Co-Director of Surgery stated that they were not aware of any cases of medical care required for Botox / lip-filler cosmetic treatments in the last 5 years.
Northern HSCT stated that there have been no known cases of medical care required for Botox / lip-filler cosmetic treatments in the last five years.
South Eastern HSCT cannot provide a response, as the Trust does not collate such information and would therefore need to conduct a manual trawl through the records of all the emergency admissions in the last 5 years, at disproportionate cost.
Western HSCT stated that they are unable to advise if a patient has previously been treated privately for such procedures or has either been admitted to hospital or attended at A&E as a result of such procedures.
Southern HSCT did not provide a response and it is assumed that they could not provide a response within the time-frame provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202134%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377047","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377047"}},{"id":"377046","reference":"AQW 2133/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-24","answerBy":"2022-07-11","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of current regulations surrounding non-surgical cosmetic treatments, including the minimum age a person can avail of these treatments; and (ii) to detail the qualifications and training required to administer Botox and lip filler treatments.","answerText":"Under the Independent Health Care Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) regulate clinics providing certain laser or intense pulsed light cosmetic treatments and these providers are required to undergo the appropriate training etc. However, those carrying out treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers are not required to register with RQIA. There are no qualifications legally required to administer Botox or dermal fillers.\n\nMy Department’s Medicines Regulatory Group (MRG) carried out an enforcement and compliance programme into the provision of Botox over a 6 month period. Initial investigations and assessments have been conducted into over 200 individual providers of Botulinum Toxin Type A. Shortcomings in prescribing processes and breaches of advertising legislation have been identified. Those in breach of legislation have been issued formal advice and warning notices where appropriate and have moved into legal compliance in the vast majority of cases investigated. In addition, formal referrals have been made to professional bodies, e.g. GMC where appropriate. The MRG continues to monitor the situation.\n\nMy Department is aware of the changing health and social care environment, notably around cosmetic treatments, and has carried out a fundamental review of health and social care regulatory framework. My officials have developed a new draft regulatory policy that includes the principles of regulation, along with the broad scope of services to be regulated and the proposal that the regulator should have wider powers of enforcement etc. This work has been the first phase of the process before moving on to phase 2. As part of my Department’s response to the pandemic the launch of the consultation on phase 1 was delayed. Before a draft policy is consulted upon it will be subject to further review taking into account any additional lessons from the pandemic and any other regulatory and quality issues that have emerged over the past few years.\n\nIt is my intention that a Review of Regulation will be taken forward during the current mandate of the Assembly. This Review of Regulation will also include an assessment of current standards in order to consider whether any further assurances are required.","answerHtml":"Under the Independent Health Care Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) regulate clinics providing certain laser or intense pulsed light cosmetic treatments and these providers are required to undergo the appropriate training etc. However, those carrying out treatments such as Botox or dermal fillers are not required to register with RQIA. There are no qualifications legally required to administer Botox or dermal fillers.
My Department’s Medicines Regulatory Group (MRG) carried out an enforcement and compliance programme into the provision of Botox over a 6 month period. Initial investigations and assessments have been conducted into over 200 individual providers of Botulinum Toxin Type A. Shortcomings in prescribing processes and breaches of advertising legislation have been identified. Those in breach of legislation have been issued formal advice and warning notices where appropriate and have moved into legal compliance in the vast majority of cases investigated. In addition, formal referrals have been made to professional bodies, e.g. GMC where appropriate. The MRG continues to monitor the situation.
My Department is aware of the changing health and social care environment, notably around cosmetic treatments, and has carried out a fundamental review of health and social care regulatory framework. My officials have developed a new draft regulatory policy that includes the principles of regulation, along with the broad scope of services to be regulated and the proposal that the regulator should have wider powers of enforcement etc. This work has been the first phase of the process before moving on to phase 2. As part of my Department’s response to the pandemic the launch of the consultation on phase 1 was delayed. Before a draft policy is consulted upon it will be subject to further review taking into account any additional lessons from the pandemic and any other regulatory and quality issues that have emerged over the past few years.
It is my intention that a Review of Regulation will be taken forward during the current mandate of the Assembly. This Review of Regulation will also include an assessment of current standards in order to consider whether any further assurances are required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202133%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377046","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377046"}},{"id":"377045","reference":"AQW 2132/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-24","answerBy":"2022-07-11","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the work his Department has undertaken, and is planning to undertake, to reduce disruption and distress to locals caused by car cruise events in Portrush and Portstewart.","answerText":"Since August 2021, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has assisted the PSNI in carrying out four enforcement operations in the Portrush and Portstewart areas aimed at addressing road safety concerns associated with car cruise events.\n\nDuring these operations a total of 63 modified cars were inspected by examiners, resulting in 51 vehicles (81%) being subjected to prohibition action due to breaches of the Construction & Use Regulations. 14 modified cars (22%) were immediately banned from use on our roads due to dangerous mechanical defects.\n\nDVA will continue to provide technical support to the PSNI in such operations to help address the problem of unsafe modified cars being used on our roads.\n\nOfficials from Roads Northern Division have also had discussions with the PSNI regarding other measures to discourage anti-social driving and are proposing to provide raised table pedestrian crossings at Kerr Street, Portrush; additional speed cushions at Main Street, Portrush; a raised table at the pedestrian crossing on Portstewart Promenade; and explore the possible introduction of a part-time ban on right turns out of Harbour Place, Portstewart. Development work on these measures is currently ongoing with the intention of consulting formally on the legislation for these proposals later this year.\n\nShould you have any further questions regarding the traffic calming measures, please contact DfI Roads Northern Division at: dfiroads.northern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"Since August 2021, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has assisted the PSNI in carrying out four enforcement operations in the Portrush and Portstewart areas aimed at addressing road safety concerns associated with car cruise events.
During these operations a total of 63 modified cars were inspected by examiners, resulting in 51 vehicles (81%) being subjected to prohibition action due to breaches of the Construction & Use Regulations. 14 modified cars (22%) were immediately banned from use on our roads due to dangerous mechanical defects.
DVA will continue to provide technical support to the PSNI in such operations to help address the problem of unsafe modified cars being used on our roads.
Officials from Roads Northern Division have also had discussions with the PSNI regarding other measures to discourage anti-social driving and are proposing to provide raised table pedestrian crossings at Kerr Street, Portrush; additional speed cushions at Main Street, Portrush; a raised table at the pedestrian crossing on Portstewart Promenade; and explore the possible introduction of a part-time ban on right turns out of Harbour Place, Portstewart. Development work on these measures is currently ongoing with the intention of consulting formally on the legislation for these proposals later this year.
Should you have any further questions regarding the traffic calming measures, please contact DfI Roads Northern Division at: dfiroads.northern@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202132%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=377045","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=377045"}},{"id":"377044","reference":"AQW 2131/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-24","answerBy":"2022-07-11","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the current assessed need for social housing by number of bedrooms, in (a) Coleraine; (b) Limavady; (c) Portstewart; and (d) Portrush; and (ii) what funding is in place to take forward developments in these areas.","answerText":"In tables 1 and 2 below I have provided ‘Total Applicants by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement’, and ‘Applicants in Housing Stress by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement’, for the Coleraine Central, Limavady Town, Portrush and Portstewart Housing Need Assessment (HNA) areas. Table 3 provides the total annual allocations for each HNA area.\n\nAt table 4 below I have detailed the total numbers of new social housing units completed to-date in 2022/23, under construction and programmed to start in Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).\n\nPlease note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties\n\nTable 1: Total Applicants by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement at 31 March 2022\n\nTotal Applicants by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement\nHNA Area\t1\t2\t3\t4\t5\tTotal Applicants\nColeraine Central\t145\t19\t<10\t<10\t0\t174\nLimavady Town\t265\t100\t44\t17\t<10\t-\nPortrush\t199\t51\t21\t<10\t0\t-\nPortstewart\t163\t66\t37\t12\t0\t278\n\nTotal\t772\t236\t-\t38\t<10\t-\n\nTable 2: Total Applicants in Housing Stress by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement at 31/03/2022\n\nTotal Applicants in Housing Stress by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement\nHNA Area\t1\t2\t3\t4\t5\tTotal Applicants in Housing Stress (30 Points or More)\nColeraine Central\t86\t<10\t<10\t<10\t0\t101\nLimavady Town\t142\t50\t19\t<10\t<10\t223\nPortrush\t114\t26\t<10\t<10\t0\t152\nPortstewart\t95\t36\t23\t<10\t0\t-\n\nTotal\t437\t-\t56\t21\t<10\t-\n\nTable 3: Allocations to Applicants last 12 months\n\nHNA area\tAllocations to Applicants\nColeraine Central\t26\nLimavady Town\t35\nPortrush\t21\nPortstewart\t68\nTotal\t150\n\nTable 4: total numbers of new social housing units completed to-date in 2022/23, under construction and programmed to start in Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart as part of the SHDP.\n\nLocation\tCompleted to-date in 2022/23\tUnder Construction\tProgrammed to Start in 2022/23\tProgrammed to Start in 2023/24\tProgrammed to Start in 2024/25\nColeraine\t0\t58\t13\t124\t40\nLimavady Town\t35\t0\t1\t0\t0\nPortrush\t0\t0\t54\t0\t0\nPortstewart\t0\t9\t0\t0\t0\nTotals\t35\t67\t68\t124\t40","answerHtml":"In tables 1 and 2 below I have provided ‘Total Applicants by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement’, and ‘Applicants in Housing Stress by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement’, for the Coleraine Central, Limavady Town, Portrush and Portstewart Housing Need Assessment (HNA) areas. Table 3 provides the total annual allocations for each HNA area.
At table 4 below I have detailed the total numbers of new social housing units completed to-date in 2022/23, under construction and programmed to start in Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).
Please note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties
Table 1: Total Applicants by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement at 31 March 2022
| Total Applicants by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement | ||||||
| HNA Area | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | Total Applicants |
| Coleraine Central | 145 | 19 | <10 | <10 | 0 | 174 |
| Limavady Town | 265 | 100 | 44 | 17 | <10 | - |
| Portrush | 199 | 51 | 21 | <10 | 0 | - |
| Portstewart | 163 | 66 | 37 | 12 | 0 | 278 |
| Total | 772 | 236 | - | 38 | <10 | - |
Table 2: Total Applicants in Housing Stress by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement at 31/03/2022
| Total Applicants in Housing Stress by Calculated Bedroom Entitlement | ||||||
| HNA Area | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | Total Applicants in Housing Stress (30 Points or More) |
| Coleraine Central | 86 | <10 | <10 | <10 | 0 | 101 |
| Limavady Town | 142 | 50 | 19 | <10 | <10 | 223 |
| Portrush | 114 | 26 | <10 | <10 | 0 | 152 |
| Portstewart | 95 | 36 | 23 | <10 | 0 | - |
| Total | 437 | - | 56 | 21 | <10 | - |
Table 3: Allocations to Applicants last 12 months
| HNA area | Allocations to Applicants |
| Coleraine Central | 26 |
| Limavady Town | 35 |
| Portrush | 21 |
| Portstewart | 68 |
| Total | 150 |
Table 4: total numbers of new social housing units completed to-date in 2022/23, under construction and programmed to start in Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart as part of the SHDP.
| Location | Completed to-date in 2022/23 | Under Construction | Programmed to Start in 2022/23 | Programmed to Start in 2023/24 | Programmed to Start in 2024/25 |
| Coleraine | 0 | 58 | 13 | 124 | 40 |
| Limavady Town | 35 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Portrush | 0 | 0 | 54 | 0 | 0 |
| Portstewart | 0 | 9 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Totals | 35 | 67 | 68 | 124 | 40 |
The Department of Justice holds the information that would be needed to establish such a register. However, as any register would be animal welfare related, it indicated that my Department should lead on exploring whether or not establishing one is feasible. Following detailed consideration and clear advice from DoJ, my Department has regrettably concluded that the creation of a register is untenable because a clear evidential need has not been identified, the costs of establishing and maintaining a register would be significant and the data protection implications involved are prohibitive.
In term of the evidence used to come to this conclusion, my Department considered the relevant re-offending rates, data protection law, the position in other parts of the British Isles and research conducted there.
During the period from 2016 until 2020, the rate of re-offending in respect of animal welfare offences was 3.35%, with only three breaches of court disqualifications on the actual owning or keeping animals during that period. As such, my Department concluded that there was no overwhelming need for a register to be created based on current evidence, considering the number of instances when those convicted regained access to animals, and the value for public money.
Under data protection law, any information about criminal convictions is considered sensitive personal data. This means that it enjoys enhanced legal protection and can only be shared if certain conditions set out in law are met. My Department is not convinced that, without the consent of the person convicted, disclosing animal cruelty convictions to any non-statutory bodies and or the public would meet any of the relevant conditions.
No register of animal welfare offenders exists in any part of the United Kingdom or the Republic of Ireland and there are no plans to create one. The Task and Finish Group established by the Welsh Government, and led by the Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, to examine the establishment of an animal cruelty register there was unable to identify any evidence to prove that such registers are effective or identify a way to overcome the data protection and costs barriers also identified by my officials.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202054%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376900"}},{"id":"376894","reference":"AQW 2048/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what consideration she has given to changing the threshold limits for the school uniform grant, so that parents who are struggling to afford uniforms, but who are just outside the eligibility threshold, can get support; and (ii) to detail any alternative support outside of this grant that is available for parents in this position.","answerText":"The Department has commenced a Review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review is to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society. The review is considering a number of options for uniform grants, including the options for the removal/adjustment to current thresholds for Universal Credit/Working Tax Credit, the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms as well as the potential to legislate on uniform policy.\n\nMy Department continues to work to develop costed options and a consultation exercise will take place later in the year. In the interim period, I have agreed an increase of 20% to the existing uniform grant allowances for the forthcoming academic year.\n\nIn addition I am aware of various initiatives run by schools and community organisations that offer previously worn uniforms and that can provide an alternative source for parents.\n\nThe Department does not offer any additional support outside of the grant but does provide guidance to schools on uniforms which stresses the need for schools to be mindful of the costs:\n\nhttps://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018","answerHtml":"The Department has commenced a Review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of this review is to ensure that FSM and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society. The review is considering a number of options for uniform grants, including the options for the removal/adjustment to current thresholds for Universal Credit/Working Tax Credit, the current rates of uniform grant as a contribution to the cost of school uniforms as well as the potential to legislate on uniform policy.
My Department continues to work to develop costed options and a consultation exercise will take place later in the year. In the interim period, I have agreed an increase of 20% to the existing uniform grant allowances for the forthcoming academic year.
In addition I am aware of various initiatives run by schools and community organisations that offer previously worn uniforms and that can provide an alternative source for parents.
The Department does not offer any additional support outside of the grant but does provide guidance to schools on uniforms which stresses the need for schools to be mindful of the costs:
https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/circular-201104-guidance-schools-school-uniform-policy-revised-5-june-2018
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202048%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376894","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376894"}},{"id":"376893","reference":"AQW 2047/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 1072/22-27, whether he has prepared future changes to the rating of empty homes exclusions to include houses that have been vacated by an unwell or infirm person being cared for in the home of a relative or friend.","answerText":"There are no current plans to make future changes to the rating of empty homes exclusions.","answerHtml":"There are no current plans to make future changes to the rating of empty homes exclusions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202047%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376893"}},{"id":"376892","reference":"AQW 2046/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the amalgamation of Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College, including (i) the financial, developmental and operational role of Ulster University; (ii) progress on funding; (iii) what further liaison there has been with parents and the existing schools; and (iv) the anticipated timeline for (a) location; (b) planning; (c) development; (d) construction; and (e) operation.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) published five linked Development Proposals (DPs 676-680) relating to an area solution for post-primary provision in the Causeway area on 9 March 2022. The statutory two-month objection period concluded on 23 May 2022.\n\nA submission containing all pertinent information on the proposals will be presented to me for my decision in due course.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) published five linked Development Proposals (DPs 676-680) relating to an area solution for post-primary provision in the Causeway area on 9 March 2022. The statutory two-month objection period concluded on 23 May 2022.
A submission containing all pertinent information on the proposals will be presented to me for my decision in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202046%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376892","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376892"}},{"id":"376891","reference":"AQW 2045/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-23","answerBy":"2022-07-08","answered":"2022-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to outline the progress that has been made towards the formation of an integrated education strategy within six months of 26 April 2022, in line with the requirements of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022; (ii) for her assessment of the challenges of doing so; (iii) to detail any timeline she has for its creation and publication; and (iv) to detail the potential legal, political and educational repercussions of failing to meet the six-month deadline.","answerText":"I am aware of the requirement under section 9 of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 for the Department to prepare, publish and maintain the integrated education strategy. I should however clarify that this strategy is to be published within six months of 26 October 2022 – the date the Act comes into operation – not 26 April 2022 which is the date it received Royal Assent.\n\nA key challenge presented by the requirements of the Act is the impact on resources within the Department of Education, staff resources and the financial cost to deliver the requirements of the Act within a very constrained education budget. It is also worth noting the range of consultation requirements associated with various sections of the Act, including for the action plan to be included in the integrated education strategy. This places additional time constraints on the statutory timescale for publication of the integrated education strategy.\n\nMy Department is currently engaged with the Departmental Solicitor’s Office on a range of matters requiring legal clarity, and is working to redeploy sufficient staff to undertake the work required to implement the Act in its entirety.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the requirement under section 9 of the Integrated Education Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 for the Department to prepare, publish and maintain the integrated education strategy. I should however clarify that this strategy is to be published within six months of 26 October 2022 – the date the Act comes into operation – not 26 April 2022 which is the date it received Royal Assent.
A key challenge presented by the requirements of the Act is the impact on resources within the Department of Education, staff resources and the financial cost to deliver the requirements of the Act within a very constrained education budget. It is also worth noting the range of consultation requirements associated with various sections of the Act, including for the action plan to be included in the integrated education strategy. This places additional time constraints on the statutory timescale for publication of the integrated education strategy.
My Department is currently engaged with the Departmental Solicitor’s Office on a range of matters requiring legal clarity, and is working to redeploy sufficient staff to undertake the work required to implement the Act in its entirety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202045%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376891","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376891"}},{"id":"376678","reference":"AQW 1970/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-22","answerBy":"2022-07-07","answered":"2022-08-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in the absence of an Executive, what steps he is able to take to facilitate the full implementation of the Period Products (Free Provision) Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 and the provision of free period products.","answerText":"My Department is taking forward the necessary preparatory work to progress our duty under Section 2(1) of the Act, to specify via regulations which of the public service bodies within our functions must make period products obtainable free of charge in its premises. Under Section 6 of the Act, the body is required to make sufficient products available to meet the needs of persons while they are on the premises, but not products for use elsewhere.\n\nSection 1(1) of the Act places a duty on The Executive Office (TEO) to make period products obtainable free of charge within Northern Ireland by all persons who need to use them, in accordance with arrangements established and maintained by The Executive Office.","answerHtml":"My Department is taking forward the necessary preparatory work to progress our duty under Section 2(1) of the Act, to specify via regulations which of the public service bodies within our functions must make period products obtainable free of charge in its premises. Under Section 6 of the Act, the body is required to make sufficient products available to meet the needs of persons while they are on the premises, but not products for use elsewhere.
Section 1(1) of the Act places a duty on The Executive Office (TEO) to make period products obtainable free of charge within Northern Ireland by all persons who need to use them, in accordance with arrangements established and maintained by The Executive Office.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201970%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376678"}},{"id":"376677","reference":"AQW 1969/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-22","answerBy":"2022-07-07","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline what work she has undertaken, or plans to undertake, with other Executive departments, to assess what correlation there is between the number of second homes in an area and the demand for school places.","answerText":"The planning of education provision to ensure there are enough places of the right type and size and which are located in the right place at the right time is a matter for the Education Authority (EA), supported by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) and in collaboration with the various bodies established to represent the interests of the other sectors.\n\nIn undertaking this role they will assess all relevant evidence, including population data relevant to any area subject to planning considerations.","answerHtml":"The planning of education provision to ensure there are enough places of the right type and size and which are located in the right place at the right time is a matter for the Education Authority (EA), supported by the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) and in collaboration with the various bodies established to represent the interests of the other sectors.
In undertaking this role they will assess all relevant evidence, including population data relevant to any area subject to planning considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201969%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376677","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376677"}},{"id":"376676","reference":"AQW 1968/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-22","answerBy":"2022-07-07","answered":"2022-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) what work he has undertaken to assess the seasonal economic boost to towns on the north coast; (ii) the findings of any assessments; and (iii) what work he has undertaken, and plans to undertake, to improve the economic benefits.","answerText":"Parts (i) and (ii) - Accommodation statistics provided by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) for the Causeway Coast & Glens local government district area for 2019 indicate that:\n\nHotels and guesthouses, bed and breakfast and guest accommodation in the area experienced substantially higher room occupancy rates during April-September 2019 compared with the main autumn/winter period.\n\nAverage room occupancy for hotels was 77% for April-June 2019 and 82% for July-September 2019 compared with around 50% for the remainder of the year.\n\nGuesthouses, bed and breakfast and guest accommodation experienced higher average room occupancy during July-September 2019 (45%) than they did in April-June 2019 (31%), with average room occupancy for the rest of the year dropping to around 11%.\n\nNote: Small sample sizes. Full year data is unavailable for 2021 due to Covid-19 related closures.\n\nTourism Northern Ireland analysis of cardholder spend on key tourism-related categories (bars, eating places & restaurants and hotels) in the Causeway Coast and Glens area in 2019 indicates:\n\nTourism related spend in quarter one (January-March 2019) accounted for just 13% of tourism related cardholder spend for the year, compared with 40% for July-September 2019.\n\nQuarters two (April-June 2019) and four (October-December 2019) each accounted for just under one-quarter of tourism related cardholder spend in 2019.\n\nNote: Analysis is based on available cardholder spend in Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Bushmills, Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart.\n\n(iii) Tourism NI has a close working relationship with each of the eleven local authorities across Northern Ireland, including Causeway Coast & Glens (CC&G) council, and are meeting regularly with those councils to discuss areas such as marketing, business support and key local tourism projects. Understandably, the Covid 19 pandemic has had a hugely negative impact on tourism in the CC&G area, other neighbouring council areas, and indeed across all parts of Northern Ireland, but the CC&G area has established significant market growth and brand recognition over several years.\n\nThere has been ongoing business activity in the Causeway Coastal Route area in relation to business collaboration working that includes the tourism private sector, public sector and voluntary sector. A number of formal tourism cluster groups have been operating for a number of years now under the Invest NI’s Collaborative Growth Programme. Tourism NI and CC&G council are supportive of these independently facilitated cluster groups, namely the Causeway Coast, Limavady/Binevenagh and Taste Causeway in terms of industry and business support provision.\n\nThere are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CC&G council on their Regional Growth Deal, to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle, to ensure that investment in tourism is aligned to Tourism NI’s key strategic objectives.\n\nTourism NI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025, including engagement with councils and the business community to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. This will build on the successful model deployed in 2019, including industry workshops, toolkits, a dressing and animation programme and customer service excellence training initiatives.\n\nIn October 2021, Tourism NI awarded CC&G council with £293k financial assistance as part of a new Market Led Product Development funding programme to build the strength of the Northern Ireland experience brand, aligning with core segments, and have the potential to maximise demand in future years. CC&G’s successful application and programme developed a number of new events and initiatives including Slow Food Banquets and Unique Dining Experiences.\n\nTourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CC&G council, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects in the North Coast area, in this strategically important region of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Parts (i) and (ii) - Accommodation statistics provided by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) for the Causeway Coast & Glens local government district area for 2019 indicate that:
Hotels and guesthouses, bed and breakfast and guest accommodation in the area experienced substantially higher room occupancy rates during April-September 2019 compared with the main autumn/winter period.
Average room occupancy for hotels was 77% for April-June 2019 and 82% for July-September 2019 compared with around 50% for the remainder of the year.
Guesthouses, bed and breakfast and guest accommodation experienced higher average room occupancy during July-September 2019 (45%) than they did in April-June 2019 (31%), with average room occupancy for the rest of the year dropping to around 11%.
Note: Small sample sizes. Full year data is unavailable for 2021 due to Covid-19 related closures.
Tourism Northern Ireland analysis of cardholder spend on key tourism-related categories (bars, eating places & restaurants and hotels) in the Causeway Coast and Glens area in 2019 indicates:
Tourism related spend in quarter one (January-March 2019) accounted for just 13% of tourism related cardholder spend for the year, compared with 40% for July-September 2019.
Quarters two (April-June 2019) and four (October-December 2019) each accounted for just under one-quarter of tourism related cardholder spend in 2019.
Note: Analysis is based on available cardholder spend in Ballycastle, Ballymoney, Bushmills, Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart.
(iii) Tourism NI has a close working relationship with each of the eleven local authorities across Northern Ireland, including Causeway Coast & Glens (CC&G) council, and are meeting regularly with those councils to discuss areas such as marketing, business support and key local tourism projects. Understandably, the Covid 19 pandemic has had a hugely negative impact on tourism in the CC&G area, other neighbouring council areas, and indeed across all parts of Northern Ireland, but the CC&G area has established significant market growth and brand recognition over several years.
There has been ongoing business activity in the Causeway Coastal Route area in relation to business collaboration working that includes the tourism private sector, public sector and voluntary sector. A number of formal tourism cluster groups have been operating for a number of years now under the Invest NI’s Collaborative Growth Programme. Tourism NI and CC&G council are supportive of these independently facilitated cluster groups, namely the Causeway Coast, Limavady/Binevenagh and Taste Causeway in terms of industry and business support provision.
There are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CC&G council on their Regional Growth Deal, to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle, to ensure that investment in tourism is aligned to Tourism NI’s key strategic objectives.
Tourism NI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025, including engagement with councils and the business community to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. This will build on the successful model deployed in 2019, including industry workshops, toolkits, a dressing and animation programme and customer service excellence training initiatives.
In October 2021, Tourism NI awarded CC&G council with £293k financial assistance as part of a new Market Led Product Development funding programme to build the strength of the Northern Ireland experience brand, aligning with core segments, and have the potential to maximise demand in future years. CC&G’s successful application and programme developed a number of new events and initiatives including Slow Food Banquets and Unique Dining Experiences.
Tourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CC&G council, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects in the North Coast area, in this strategically important region of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201968%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376676"}},{"id":"376675","reference":"AQW 1967/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-22","answerBy":"2022-07-07","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline how increased visitor numbers to the north coast during summer months impacts on the demand for services at Causeway Hospital; and (ii) to detail any seasonal or yearly boost in funding or resources the hospital receives, in order to meet demand.","answerText":"During the months of July and August, Emergency Department attendances at Causeway Hospital are 10% higher than the average across the year. The assumption is that this is due to the increased visitor numbers to the area during this period.\n\nThe Northern Health and Social Care Trust does not receive any additional seasonal funding to meet this demand, however seasonal fluctuations in demand are taken into account in the commissioning and planning of health and social care services.","answerHtml":"During the months of July and August, Emergency Department attendances at Causeway Hospital are 10% higher than the average across the year. The assumption is that this is due to the increased visitor numbers to the area during this period.
The Northern Health and Social Care Trust does not receive any additional seasonal funding to meet this demand, however seasonal fluctuations in demand are taken into account in the commissioning and planning of health and social care services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201967%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376675"}},{"id":"376674","reference":"AQW 1966/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-22","answerBy":"2022-07-07","answered":"2022-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) action she has taken to investigate the potential for social or private housing on a 4.9-acre site on the Ballywillan Road in Portrush, that is adjacent to the future site of the new Mill Strand Integrated Primary School; and (ii) other potential sites she has identified in Portrush for this purpose.","answerText":"The site on the Ballywillan Road is contained within the development limits of Portrush, and the Housing Executive have advised they would support a suitable scheme at this location in principle to address housing need in Portrush.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s North Place Shaping team has received preliminary enquiries from several housing associations regarding support for the development of c. 60 new social homes on the Ballywillan Road, Portrush. Therefore, it is expected that, at this stage, housing associations are carrying out initial feasibility work to review the potential to bring forward new social homes at this location through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).\n\nA further two sites at Glenmanus Road (15 units) and Parker Avenue (1 unit) are programmed to start in 2022/23 as part of the current Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).\n\nPlease note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.","answerHtml":"The site on the Ballywillan Road is contained within the development limits of Portrush, and the Housing Executive have advised they would support a suitable scheme at this location in principle to address housing need in Portrush.
The Housing Executive’s North Place Shaping team has received preliminary enquiries from several housing associations regarding support for the development of c. 60 new social homes on the Ballywillan Road, Portrush. Therefore, it is expected that, at this stage, housing associations are carrying out initial feasibility work to review the potential to bring forward new social homes at this location through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).
A further two sites at Glenmanus Road (15 units) and Parker Avenue (1 unit) are programmed to start in 2022/23 as part of the current Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP).
Please note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Land, Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201966%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376674","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376674"}},{"id":"376506","reference":"AQW 1895/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his Department’s policy on providing puberty blocking medication for people under 18 years old who are transgender; (ii) the current availability of these drugs; and (iii) the process by which people under 18 years old, or their parents, can avail of them.","answerText":"(i) The Knowing Our Identity Service based within the Belfast Trust provides a range of treatment and support provided, which are designed to be clinically appropriate and reflect a staged approach in terms of psychological support and assessment. Subsequent physical assessment and intervention in the form of puberty blockers were provided in keeping with national and international guidelines.\n\n(ii) Knowing Our Identity has offered access to gender affirming endocrine interventions (e.g. puberty blockers) for young people following psychological assessment and consideration since 2014. However, due to limited Adult Gender provision with growing waiting lists to be seen in the Adult Gender Identity Service there was no readily available transition pathway for young people at age 18 to allow for safe continuation of endocrine treatment. There was also a lack of psychological support alongside medical interventions. This led to changes to the service specification for Knowing Our Identity in March 2020 whereby new referrals after this date would no longer have access to the endocrine path.\n\n(iii) Any young person who had been referred to Knowing Our Identity before March 2020 will have access to these drugs through the endocrine pathway. This pathway was closed after March 2020, due to the limited Adult Gender provision. There is therefore no access to these drugs for this cohort.","answerHtml":"(i) The Knowing Our Identity Service based within the Belfast Trust provides a range of treatment and support provided, which are designed to be clinically appropriate and reflect a staged approach in terms of psychological support and assessment. Subsequent physical assessment and intervention in the form of puberty blockers were provided in keeping with national and international guidelines.
(ii) Knowing Our Identity has offered access to gender affirming endocrine interventions (e.g. puberty blockers) for young people following psychological assessment and consideration since 2014. However, due to limited Adult Gender provision with growing waiting lists to be seen in the Adult Gender Identity Service there was no readily available transition pathway for young people at age 18 to allow for safe continuation of endocrine treatment. There was also a lack of psychological support alongside medical interventions. This led to changes to the service specification for Knowing Our Identity in March 2020 whereby new referrals after this date would no longer have access to the endocrine path.
(iii) Any young person who had been referred to Knowing Our Identity before March 2020 will have access to these drugs through the endocrine pathway. This pathway was closed after March 2020, due to the limited Adult Gender provision. There is therefore no access to these drugs for this cohort.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201895%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376506"}},{"id":"376505","reference":"AQW 1894/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the steps she is taking to increase spend on education, per pupil, to bring it closer in line with other parts of the UK.","answerText":"There are inherit difficulties in trying to compare per pupil funding across jurisdictions, examples of which include, regional differences in school starting ages, data sources, how different types of schools are funded and how funds, including support services to pupils, are accounted for.\n\nThat said, I welcome last year’s report from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), Comparisons of School Spending Per Pupil Across the UK, which highlighted that spend per pupil is expected to be the lowest in Northern Ireland, in the current financial year, compared to the other UK regions. This must be viewed in the context of the historic funding squeeze on the education budget where, between 2010-11 and 2019-20, the Northern Ireland education budget reduced by £229m in real terms.\n\nThis reduction in funding was against a backdrop of a 7% increase in pupil numbers; that is, 20,000 additional pupils. It is also important to note that Northern Ireland has the largest school-age population as a proportion of the total population of any of the UK nations. Our relatively large school-age population contributes to a lower spend per pupil.\n\nAll of this is a serious concern to me. In my time as Minister, I have continually emphasised the issues to the Finance Minister in my work with him and my fellow Ministers in seeking to secure the necessary funding for Education as we move forward.\n\nIt is also likely that the Independent Review of Education will consider the distribution of funding to education settings and the quantification of any potential funding gap, including a consideration of factors which may create funding disparities in Northern Ireland relative to the rest of the UK.","answerHtml":"There are inherit difficulties in trying to compare per pupil funding across jurisdictions, examples of which include, regional differences in school starting ages, data sources, how different types of schools are funded and how funds, including support services to pupils, are accounted for.
That said, I welcome last year’s report from the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS), Comparisons of School Spending Per Pupil Across the UK, which highlighted that spend per pupil is expected to be the lowest in Northern Ireland, in the current financial year, compared to the other UK regions. This must be viewed in the context of the historic funding squeeze on the education budget where, between 2010-11 and 2019-20, the Northern Ireland education budget reduced by £229m in real terms.
This reduction in funding was against a backdrop of a 7% increase in pupil numbers; that is, 20,000 additional pupils. It is also important to note that Northern Ireland has the largest school-age population as a proportion of the total population of any of the UK nations. Our relatively large school-age population contributes to a lower spend per pupil.
All of this is a serious concern to me. In my time as Minister, I have continually emphasised the issues to the Finance Minister in my work with him and my fellow Ministers in seeking to secure the necessary funding for Education as we move forward.
It is also likely that the Independent Review of Education will consider the distribution of funding to education settings and the quantification of any potential funding gap, including a consideration of factors which may create funding disparities in Northern Ireland relative to the rest of the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201894%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376505"}},{"id":"376504","reference":"AQW 1893/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the changes in the workforce of General Practitioners over the last ten years; (ii) to detail the impact that these changes have in meeting the demand within primary care; and (iii) to detail his Department’s workforce planning to take into account changes over the last 10 years.","answerText":"Primary care services are a cornerstone of our health and social care provision. Unfortunately, even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care services were already coming under increasing pressure. It remains my assessment that GP-led services cannot continue to meet the rising demand and expectations without urgent action to address the pressures facing the service. To do this, means that we have to focus on both the GP workforce and on developing new ways of working that were already being implemented but which have accelerated during the pandemic.\n\nFocussing on the workforce of General Practitioners specifically, recent figures from the Business Services Organisation show that at March 2022, there were 1,419 GPs working in Northern Ireland. It should be noted, however, that not all GPs work full-time hours so changes in headcount may not reflect the change in full time equivalent GPs. This is against a backdrop of rising demand for GP services, compounded by the ongoing pressures created by COVID-19. Further details on the specific demographics of the GP workforce including its evolving gender and age profile are also set out in the report from BSO which is available at: FPS - General Medical Statistics Annual Report (hscni.net)\n\nOur workforce planning approach has sought to take account of the need to ensure that we have a GP workforce that is supported, motivated and sustainable and that continues to provide quality care to patients.\n\nThe General Practitioner Medical Workforce Planning Group Final Report – June 2015 considered demand for GP services, comparison of GP medical workforces, GP training, workload and workforce trends. It recommended a phased increase in GP training places to 111. The Department achieved this expansion in 2019/20, an increase of 71% from 2015 levels. Work is underway on a review of GP trainee places with a working group established to explore issues relating to the GP workforce to ensure we have the workforce in Primary Care we need going forward. Whilst its work is still ongoing, I have accepted the working group’s recommendation of an immediate increase of 10 additional GP training places as an interim measure for the 2022/23 academic year bringing the total number in Northern Ireland to an all-time high of 121 training places this year. Any future increases will be informed by completion of the work of the working group and subject to the availability of funding.\n\nIn addition to the work outlined above, a number of support schemes are also in place. The GP Induction and Refresher Scheme provides an opportunity for GPs who meet the required criteria to safely return to general practice following a career break or time spent working abroad. It also supports the safe introduction of overseas GPs and provides support to GPs returning to or entering clinical practice in Northern Ireland. Similarly, the GP Retention Scheme is designed to assist in the retention of GPs who may be considering leaving or reducing their sessional commitment to general practice.\n\nHowever, our workforce planning approach has also recognised that the increase in demand for GP-led services cannot be met solely by increasing the number of GPs. This is only one element of a wider programme of work to help improve the provision of care for patients.\n\nBroadening skills mix has meant the development of new roles, such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners and General Practice Pharmacists and the roll out of our Primary Care Multi-disciplinary Teams (MDT) model. This model has introduced new social work, mental health, physiotherapy and social work roles into general practice, complemented by increased levels of district nursing and health visiting staff. This model, which is complete or in developed in 7 of the 17 GP Federations in Northern Ireland – Down, Derry, West Belfast, Causeway, Newry & District, North Down and Ards Federations, aims to move from a system of treating illness to holistically supporting positive physical and mental health, and social wellbeing.\n\nIn seeking to meet increasing demand, primary care is also building on new and innovative ways of working, including making greater use of technology. This includes the use of general practice telephone first consultations which allow practices to maintain the majority of GP-led services and enable GPs to appropriately manage, treat and support more patients on the same day.","answerHtml":"Primary care services are a cornerstone of our health and social care provision. Unfortunately, even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, primary care services were already coming under increasing pressure. It remains my assessment that GP-led services cannot continue to meet the rising demand and expectations without urgent action to address the pressures facing the service. To do this, means that we have to focus on both the GP workforce and on developing new ways of working that were already being implemented but which have accelerated during the pandemic.
Focussing on the workforce of General Practitioners specifically, recent figures from the Business Services Organisation show that at March 2022, there were 1,419 GPs working in Northern Ireland. It should be noted, however, that not all GPs work full-time hours so changes in headcount may not reflect the change in full time equivalent GPs. This is against a backdrop of rising demand for GP services, compounded by the ongoing pressures created by COVID-19. Further details on the specific demographics of the GP workforce including its evolving gender and age profile are also set out in the report from BSO which is available at: FPS - General Medical Statistics Annual Report (hscni.net)
Our workforce planning approach has sought to take account of the need to ensure that we have a GP workforce that is supported, motivated and sustainable and that continues to provide quality care to patients.
The General Practitioner Medical Workforce Planning Group Final Report – June 2015 considered demand for GP services, comparison of GP medical workforces, GP training, workload and workforce trends. It recommended a phased increase in GP training places to 111. The Department achieved this expansion in 2019/20, an increase of 71% from 2015 levels. Work is underway on a review of GP trainee places with a working group established to explore issues relating to the GP workforce to ensure we have the workforce in Primary Care we need going forward. Whilst its work is still ongoing, I have accepted the working group’s recommendation of an immediate increase of 10 additional GP training places as an interim measure for the 2022/23 academic year bringing the total number in Northern Ireland to an all-time high of 121 training places this year. Any future increases will be informed by completion of the work of the working group and subject to the availability of funding.
In addition to the work outlined above, a number of support schemes are also in place. The GP Induction and Refresher Scheme provides an opportunity for GPs who meet the required criteria to safely return to general practice following a career break or time spent working abroad. It also supports the safe introduction of overseas GPs and provides support to GPs returning to or entering clinical practice in Northern Ireland. Similarly, the GP Retention Scheme is designed to assist in the retention of GPs who may be considering leaving or reducing their sessional commitment to general practice.
However, our workforce planning approach has also recognised that the increase in demand for GP-led services cannot be met solely by increasing the number of GPs. This is only one element of a wider programme of work to help improve the provision of care for patients.
Broadening skills mix has meant the development of new roles, such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners and General Practice Pharmacists and the roll out of our Primary Care Multi-disciplinary Teams (MDT) model. This model has introduced new social work, mental health, physiotherapy and social work roles into general practice, complemented by increased levels of district nursing and health visiting staff. This model, which is complete or in developed in 7 of the 17 GP Federations in Northern Ireland – Down, Derry, West Belfast, Causeway, Newry & District, North Down and Ards Federations, aims to move from a system of treating illness to holistically supporting positive physical and mental health, and social wellbeing.
In seeking to meet increasing demand, primary care is also building on new and innovative ways of working, including making greater use of technology. This includes the use of general practice telephone first consultations which allow practices to maintain the majority of GP-led services and enable GPs to appropriately manage, treat and support more patients on the same day.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201893%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376504"}},{"id":"376503","reference":"AQW 1892/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail any conversations she has had with caravan and caravan park owners regarding the consumer protections of the Caravans Act (Northern Ireland) 2011; and (ii) for her assessment of the current regulations.","answerText":"My Department formally launched the 2021 Review of the Caravans Act 2011 on 14 December 2021. As the legislation is cross-cutting an inter-departmental Working Group was set up to include the Department for Infrastructure and the Department for the Economy. Working Group members are now analysing approximately 717 responses received from caravan owners (both holiday and residential), caravan park owners and caravan trade organisations.","answerHtml":"My Department formally launched the 2021 Review of the Caravans Act 2011 on 14 December 2021. As the legislation is cross-cutting an inter-departmental Working Group was set up to include the Department for Infrastructure and the Department for the Economy. Working Group members are now analysing approximately 717 responses received from caravan owners (both holiday and residential), caravan park owners and caravan trade organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201892%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376503"}},{"id":"376502","reference":"AQW 1891/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-21","answerBy":"2022-07-06","answered":"2022-08-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of facilities offering respite care for adults with learning disabilities in each constituency.","answerText":"Remobilisation of adult daycare and respite is coordinated at a regional level to ensure consistency across all 5 Trusts. Data on day care, short breaks and transport is provided on the Department’s website and is updated on a monthly basis.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services\n\nTo improve the level of provision my officials have worked with the Public Health Agency to develop a Pathway for remobilisation and issue updated public health guidance, which will enable Trusts to better balance Covid-19 considerations with wider risks to the mental health and wellbeing of service users, families and carers.","answerHtml":"Remobilisation of adult daycare and respite is coordinated at a regional level to ensure consistency across all 5 Trusts. Data on day care, short breaks and transport is provided on the Department’s website and is updated on a monthly basis.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/remobilisation-learning-disability-services
To improve the level of provision my officials have worked with the Public Health Agency to develop a Pathway for remobilisation and issue updated public health guidance, which will enable Trusts to better balance Covid-19 considerations with wider risks to the mental health and wellbeing of service users, families and carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201891%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376502"}},{"id":"376339","reference":"AQW 1808/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-20","answerBy":"2022-07-05","answered":"2022-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what continuity of care provision exists to enable a client user, who has moved to a neighbouring Health and Social Care Trust area, to maintain the services of their existing respite provider; and (ii) for his assessment of the importance to a child with severe learning difficulties of maintaining a relationship with a respite provider they have used for many years.","answerText":"Each transition across the region is considered on a case by case basis.\n\n(i) Trusts work collaboratively to ensure continuity of care for clients transitioning across regional boundaries. There is a standardised approach to contact the client and family, ensure assessments of need are shared and updated, and provide opportunities to meet new staff and independent sector providers. In addition, multi-disciplinary input is sought to consider options in maintaining existing respite and wider health and social care providers.\n\n(ii) For those with complex needs, adults or children, it is important to maintain relationships with staff and respite providers throughout transitions. This must be balanced against the assessment of need, growing complexity and value for money considerations.","answerHtml":"Each transition across the region is considered on a case by case basis.
(i) Trusts work collaboratively to ensure continuity of care for clients transitioning across regional boundaries. There is a standardised approach to contact the client and family, ensure assessments of need are shared and updated, and provide opportunities to meet new staff and independent sector providers. In addition, multi-disciplinary input is sought to consider options in maintaining existing respite and wider health and social care providers.
(ii) For those with complex needs, adults or children, it is important to maintain relationships with staff and respite providers throughout transitions. This must be balanced against the assessment of need, growing complexity and value for money considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201808%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376339","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376339"}},{"id":"376338","reference":"AQW 1807/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-20","answerBy":"2022-07-05","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the renewable energy technology options he is exploring to assess their potential to contribute to Northern Ireland’s electricity production.","answerText":"The Energy Strategy established a target of at least 70% of all electricity consumed in Northern Ireland to come from a diverse range renewable sources by 2030. This target was increased to 80% renewable electricity consumption by the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. My Department is considering diversifying the renewable electricity technology mix in the round to provide clean, secure and affordable energy for Northern Ireland. This will mean expanding our renewables portfolio into offshore wind and other technologies in a manner that avoids negative impacts on security of supply and consumer costs.\n\nThe Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022 states that the Department will bring forward an action plan to deliver 1GW of offshore wind from 2030.\n\nThere is a statutory process necessary to enable offshore renewable energy deployment in NI waters involving multiple stakeholders and legislative, regulatory, technical and economic issues that must first be resolved.\n\nMy Department has set up an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan Steering Group, bringing together all relevant key stakeholders, to address these issues and see offshore wind energy deployed in NI waters as soon as practicably possible.\n\nDepartmental officials are also working alongside BEIS and the other devolved administrations on the development of the UK-wide £240m Net Zero Hydrogen Fund and the Hydrogen Business Models, which BEIS hope to launch this year. It is hoped these funding mechanisms will provide financial stimulus to support the deployment of low carbon hydrogen production across the UK.\n\nMy Department also publishes a regular ‘Funding Innovation for Net Zero’ E-Zine, which highlights funding opportunities in clean energy and a low carbon economy relating to the £1billion UK Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, to support the ongoing development of renewable energy and stimulate innovation towards my Department’s vision of a “10X Economy” for Northern Ireland. More information on this E-Zine can be found here.","answerHtml":"The Energy Strategy established a target of at least 70% of all electricity consumed in Northern Ireland to come from a diverse range renewable sources by 2030. This target was increased to 80% renewable electricity consumption by the Climate Change Act (Northern Ireland) 2022. My Department is considering diversifying the renewable electricity technology mix in the round to provide clean, secure and affordable energy for Northern Ireland. This will mean expanding our renewables portfolio into offshore wind and other technologies in a manner that avoids negative impacts on security of supply and consumer costs.
The Energy Strategy Action Plan 2022 states that the Department will bring forward an action plan to deliver 1GW of offshore wind from 2030.
There is a statutory process necessary to enable offshore renewable energy deployment in NI waters involving multiple stakeholders and legislative, regulatory, technical and economic issues that must first be resolved.
My Department has set up an Offshore Renewable Energy Action Plan Steering Group, bringing together all relevant key stakeholders, to address these issues and see offshore wind energy deployed in NI waters as soon as practicably possible.
Departmental officials are also working alongside BEIS and the other devolved administrations on the development of the UK-wide £240m Net Zero Hydrogen Fund and the Hydrogen Business Models, which BEIS hope to launch this year. It is hoped these funding mechanisms will provide financial stimulus to support the deployment of low carbon hydrogen production across the UK.
My Department also publishes a regular ‘Funding Innovation for Net Zero’ E-Zine, which highlights funding opportunities in clean energy and a low carbon economy relating to the £1billion UK Net Zero Innovation Portfolio, to support the ongoing development of renewable energy and stimulate innovation towards my Department’s vision of a “10X Economy” for Northern Ireland. More information on this E-Zine can be found here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201807%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376338","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376338"}},{"id":"376336","reference":"AQW 1805/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-20","answerBy":"2022-07-05","answered":"2022-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the transport options that exist for people in rural areas to travel to hospital appointments, in particular when very short notice of an appointment is given.","answerText":"My Department has a statutory responsibility to provide non-urgent transport to hospital appointments in certain circumstances. Under our 2007 Transport Strategy for Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland, this service is provided to those who have a medical need, as determined by a medical practitioner. Medical need is defined in the strategy as being: “Where the patient’s condition could be significantly worsened if there were a failure to provide transport or, where the patient’s condition is of such severity that it renders them unfit to travel by any other means, except non-emergency ambulance transport, or some other form of non-emergency transport”.\n\nMedical practitioners assessing eligibility for transport have the flexibility to consider the needs of people with particular mobility problems, or individuals who are rurally isolated, where there is no other form of available and suitable transport.\n\nAdvice on community transport options that exist for people in rural areas to travel to hospital appointments is a matter for the Minister for Infrastructure, who has responsibility for funding community transport schemes.","answerHtml":"My Department has a statutory responsibility to provide non-urgent transport to hospital appointments in certain circumstances. Under our 2007 Transport Strategy for Health and Social Care Services in Northern Ireland, this service is provided to those who have a medical need, as determined by a medical practitioner. Medical need is defined in the strategy as being: “Where the patient’s condition could be significantly worsened if there were a failure to provide transport or, where the patient’s condition is of such severity that it renders them unfit to travel by any other means, except non-emergency ambulance transport, or some other form of non-emergency transport”.
Medical practitioners assessing eligibility for transport have the flexibility to consider the needs of people with particular mobility problems, or individuals who are rurally isolated, where there is no other form of available and suitable transport.
Advice on community transport options that exist for people in rural areas to travel to hospital appointments is a matter for the Minister for Infrastructure, who has responsibility for funding community transport schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201805%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376336","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376336"}},{"id":"376335","reference":"AQW 1804/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-20","answerBy":"2022-07-05","answered":"2022-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the steps people can take to reduce domestic fossil fuel consumption; and (ii) the government support and grant schemes that exist to encourage this transition.","answerText":"ANSWER (i) the steps people can take to reduce domestic fossil fuel consumption.\n\nSteps outlined within the NI Energy Strategy to reduce fossil fuel used by domestic energy consumers include the Department’s approach to the decarbaronisation of power, heat and transport. Policies being considered include:\n\na support scheme to bring forward investment in renewable electricity generation;\n\nphasing out fossil fuel based home heating oil;\n\nphasing out coal and certain solid fuels for home heating;\n\nsupport for low carbon heat technologies including heat pumps;\n\ntrials and demonstrations on emerging heat solutions; and\n\na roadmap to a cleaner, greener transport system.\n\nDecarbonising heat remains one of the biggest challenges in achieving the Energy Strategy vision as more than two thirds of homes still use oil fired central heating. My Department remains committed to supporting trials and pilots of lower carbon forms of heating to ensure they work for our homes and buildings. Further research and engagement with stakeholders and consumers will inform a Decarbonising Heat Consultation, which my Department will publish in the coming months.\n\nClear direction in transport has been established by the UK government’s proposed ban on the sale of all new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 and all plug in hybrids from 2035. This ban will also apply in Northern Ireland. A tailored approach in Northern Ireland to support vehicle users with these changes is being developed.\n\nEnergy demand reduction through retrofitting existing homes with energy efficiency measures provides both an immediate and long-term means of saving energy and thus provides householders with a means of reducing their domestic fossil fuel consumption.\n\nANSWER (ii) the government support and grant schemes that exist to encourage this transition.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) is an annual programme of energy efficiency schemes funded by all electricity consumers. The £8 million/year fund is administered by the Energy Saving Trust on behalf of the Utility Regulator.\n\nThe majority of funding (80%) is ring fenced for vulnerable (‘priority’) customers in Northern Ireland who are typically able to access a package of energy efficiency measures including insulation, heating system replacement, low energy lighting, hot water cylinder jackets and smart controls. Customers who do not fall into the ‘priority’ group can access grants towards the cost of insulation.\n\nThe Housing Executive delivers the Northern Ireland Energy Advice Service through funding from the Department for Communities. This service provides free and impartial energy advice to all NI households and information such as energy efficiency grant signposting, renewable energy advice, energy saving tips, how to switch energy provider, debt assistance, fuel poverty advice and oil-buying club signposting for householders.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s Affordable Warmth Scheme, which is delivered in partnership with local Councils, is targeted at low-income households in the owner occupied and private rented sectors most at risk of fuel poverty. It takes a whole house approach offering grant funding for energy efficiency measures including loft and cavity wall insulation, heating systems and window replacement.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s Boiler Replacement Scheme provides a grant of up to £1,000 towards the cost of replacing old and inefficient boilers over 15 years old. It offers a biomass boiler which uses sustainably sourced wood pellets. This Scheme is open to owner-occupiers with a household income of less than £40,000 per annum.","answerHtml":"ANSWER (i) the steps people can take to reduce domestic fossil fuel consumption.
Steps outlined within the NI Energy Strategy to reduce fossil fuel used by domestic energy consumers include the Department’s approach to the decarbaronisation of power, heat and transport. Policies being considered include:
a support scheme to bring forward investment in renewable electricity generation;
phasing out fossil fuel based home heating oil;
phasing out coal and certain solid fuels for home heating;
support for low carbon heat technologies including heat pumps;
trials and demonstrations on emerging heat solutions; and
a roadmap to a cleaner, greener transport system.
Decarbonising heat remains one of the biggest challenges in achieving the Energy Strategy vision as more than two thirds of homes still use oil fired central heating. My Department remains committed to supporting trials and pilots of lower carbon forms of heating to ensure they work for our homes and buildings. Further research and engagement with stakeholders and consumers will inform a Decarbonising Heat Consultation, which my Department will publish in the coming months.
Clear direction in transport has been established by the UK government’s proposed ban on the sale of all new petrol and diesel cars from 2030 and all plug in hybrids from 2035. This ban will also apply in Northern Ireland. A tailored approach in Northern Ireland to support vehicle users with these changes is being developed.
Energy demand reduction through retrofitting existing homes with energy efficiency measures provides both an immediate and long-term means of saving energy and thus provides householders with a means of reducing their domestic fossil fuel consumption.
ANSWER (ii) the government support and grant schemes that exist to encourage this transition.
The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) is an annual programme of energy efficiency schemes funded by all electricity consumers. The £8 million/year fund is administered by the Energy Saving Trust on behalf of the Utility Regulator.
The majority of funding (80%) is ring fenced for vulnerable (‘priority’) customers in Northern Ireland who are typically able to access a package of energy efficiency measures including insulation, heating system replacement, low energy lighting, hot water cylinder jackets and smart controls. Customers who do not fall into the ‘priority’ group can access grants towards the cost of insulation.
The Housing Executive delivers the Northern Ireland Energy Advice Service through funding from the Department for Communities. This service provides free and impartial energy advice to all NI households and information such as energy efficiency grant signposting, renewable energy advice, energy saving tips, how to switch energy provider, debt assistance, fuel poverty advice and oil-buying club signposting for householders.
The Housing Executive’s Affordable Warmth Scheme, which is delivered in partnership with local Councils, is targeted at low-income households in the owner occupied and private rented sectors most at risk of fuel poverty. It takes a whole house approach offering grant funding for energy efficiency measures including loft and cavity wall insulation, heating systems and window replacement.
The Housing Executive’s Boiler Replacement Scheme provides a grant of up to £1,000 towards the cost of replacing old and inefficient boilers over 15 years old. It offers a biomass boiler which uses sustainably sourced wood pellets. This Scheme is open to owner-occupiers with a household income of less than £40,000 per annum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201804%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376335"}},{"id":"376334","reference":"AQW 1803/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-20","answerBy":"2022-07-05","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 630/22-27, (i) to detail any schools in East Londonderry that she has assessed as being in need of capital funding; and (ii) whether she has plans to assess again the schools eligible for the Major Capital Works Programme and release more funding for it.","answerText":"There are currently two Major Capital Works Projects in the East Londonderry constituency. Loreto College, Coleraine, was announced in my recent Major Capital Works Call and Our Lady of Fatima Primary School, Tamnaherin, was announced in the 2013 Call.\n\nThe list associated with this call is now closed and there will be no further announcements made from this call. The need for Calls to each of the Department’s Capital Programmes, that is the Minor Works Programme, the School Enhancement Programme and the Major Capital Programme will be kept under review.","answerHtml":"There are currently two Major Capital Works Projects in the East Londonderry constituency. Loreto College, Coleraine, was announced in my recent Major Capital Works Call and Our Lady of Fatima Primary School, Tamnaherin, was announced in the 2013 Call.
The list associated with this call is now closed and there will be no further announcements made from this call. The need for Calls to each of the Department’s Capital Programmes, that is the Minor Works Programme, the School Enhancement Programme and the Major Capital Programme will be kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201803%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376334","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376334"}},{"id":"376193","reference":"AQW 1728/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-17","answerBy":"2022-07-04","answered":"2022-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps she is taking to encourage owners of properties that are derelict or unsuitable for habitation to bring them up to a habitable standard.","answerText":"My Department is progressing a Housing Supply Strategy that sets out a long term framework for the delivery of supply to meet our housing needs and demands. The Strategy includes a number of long term commitments and actions including looking at adaptive reuse of existing assets and developing policies for regeneration supported by residential development. I am currently considering options for progressing the Strategy in the continuing absence of an Executive and agreed budget.\n\nDerelict properties can be reported to local councils who have responsibility for investigating derelict, dangerous and insecure buildings in their area. They have the authority to seek a remedy with the property owner.\n\nThe Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) under their remit to “Protect the Environment” have overall responsibility for Dilapidation. DAERA officials are currently assessing the legislation used by councils to deal with dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites.","answerHtml":"My Department is progressing a Housing Supply Strategy that sets out a long term framework for the delivery of supply to meet our housing needs and demands. The Strategy includes a number of long term commitments and actions including looking at adaptive reuse of existing assets and developing policies for regeneration supported by residential development. I am currently considering options for progressing the Strategy in the continuing absence of an Executive and agreed budget.
Derelict properties can be reported to local councils who have responsibility for investigating derelict, dangerous and insecure buildings in their area. They have the authority to seek a remedy with the property owner.
The Department of Agriculture Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) under their remit to “Protect the Environment” have overall responsibility for Dilapidation. DAERA officials are currently assessing the legislation used by councils to deal with dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201728%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376193","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376193"}},{"id":"376192","reference":"AQW 1727/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-17","answerBy":"2022-07-04","answered":"2022-08-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what plans she has to introduce price caps for rental properties.","answerText":"I have stated my intentions to make renting in the private rented sector fair and affordable for tenants. The first stage in addressing the issue of affordability was the introduction of the Private Tenancies 2022 which introduced a restriction on the frequency of rent increases and limited the amount of a deposit which a landlord can charge. In addition the Act introduced powers to bring forward regulations to decrease rents by up to 10% and freeze those lowered rents for up to 4 years. The Act commits the Department to carrying out a consultation on whether it should exercise these powers and to lay the resulting report before the Assembly by 27 October 2022.\n\nThis consultation work was commissioned to the Chartered Institute of Housing in June 2022.","answerHtml":"I have stated my intentions to make renting in the private rented sector fair and affordable for tenants. The first stage in addressing the issue of affordability was the introduction of the Private Tenancies 2022 which introduced a restriction on the frequency of rent increases and limited the amount of a deposit which a landlord can charge. In addition the Act introduced powers to bring forward regulations to decrease rents by up to 10% and freeze those lowered rents for up to 4 years. The Act commits the Department to carrying out a consultation on whether it should exercise these powers and to lay the resulting report before the Assembly by 27 October 2022.
This consultation work was commissioned to the Chartered Institute of Housing in June 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201727%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376192"}},{"id":"376191","reference":"AQW 1726/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-17","answerBy":"2022-07-04","answered":"2022-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail any plans he has to revise planning regulations so that homes more suited to families are prioritised for development, ahead of apartments targeted towards second homes and short-stay rental properties; and (ii) for his assessment of current rates of planning permissions being granted for apartments in areas with high levels of tourism but low numbers of long-term housing options.","answerText":"The Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) support the creation of balanced communities and, in relation to housing, facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. Council Local Development Plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for delivering this by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, such as the demand for family housing; apartments; holiday homes; and short-stay rental properties. Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. Councils are also responsible for operating effective development management in respect of planning applications for housing and in doing so, the provisions of regional planning policy must be taken into account. I have no plans to revise the Department’s planning policy approach on housing at this time.\n\nIn relation to part (ii) whilst my Department publishes statistics on planning activity and performance on a quarterly and annual basis, the disaggregation being referred to in the Member’s question is not available through existing statistical databases.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Regional Development Strategy (RDS) 2035 and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) support the creation of balanced communities and, in relation to housing, facilitate an adequate and available supply of quality housing to meet the needs of everyone. Council Local Development Plans (LDPs) are the main vehicle for delivering this by assessing future housing land requirements and managing housing growth to achieve sustainable patterns of residential development. This process allows councils to address local housing issues within their communities, such as the demand for family housing; apartments; holiday homes; and short-stay rental properties. Where appropriate, LDPs can include specific policies to protect the distinctive nature and character of settlements. Councils are also responsible for operating effective development management in respect of planning applications for housing and in doing so, the provisions of regional planning policy must be taken into account. I have no plans to revise the Department’s planning policy approach on housing at this time.
In relation to part (ii) whilst my Department publishes statistics on planning activity and performance on a quarterly and annual basis, the disaggregation being referred to in the Member’s question is not available through existing statistical databases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201726%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376191"}},{"id":"376190","reference":"AQW 1725/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-17","answerBy":"2022-07-04","answered":"2022-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail what conversations she has had, or plans to have, with the Minister for the Economy regarding the potential for vacant spaces above shops and businesses to be used for social or private housing.","answerText":"I have developed a Housing Supply Strategy that sets out a long term framework for the delivery of supply to meet our housing needs and demands. As part of the consultation process for this strategy all departments were invited to comment.\n\nI am currently considering options for progressing the Strategy in the continuing absence of an Executive and agreed budget.","answerHtml":"I have developed a Housing Supply Strategy that sets out a long term framework for the delivery of supply to meet our housing needs and demands. As part of the consultation process for this strategy all departments were invited to comment.
I am currently considering options for progressing the Strategy in the continuing absence of an Executive and agreed budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201725%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376190"}},{"id":"376189","reference":"AQW 1724/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-17","answerBy":"2022-07-04","answered":"2022-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the current regulations on properties, or parts of properties, being used for AirBnB lets; (ii) if landlords are changing from operating long-term lets to holiday lets; and (iii) any plans he has to improve or initiate regulation relating to this.","answerText":"To answer each question in turn:\n\nThe Department of Finance does not have responsibility for regulating AirBnB lets.\n\nMy department does not hold this information.\n\nMy Department is not responsible for regulating AirBnB lets, therefore I have no plans in that regard.","answerHtml":"To answer each question in turn:
The Department of Finance does not have responsibility for regulating AirBnB lets.
My department does not hold this information.
My Department is not responsible for regulating AirBnB lets, therefore I have no plans in that regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201724%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376189"}},{"id":"376095","reference":"AQW 1649/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-16","answerBy":"2022-07-01","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the impact on Housing Executive tenants of the closure of the House Sales Scheme; and (ii) to detail any plans she has to create an alternative to this scheme, such as the Right to Buy Scheme which operates in other parts of the UK.","answerText":"I refer you to response to AQW 1648 / 22-27","answerHtml":"I refer you to response to AQW 1648 / 22-27
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201649%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376095"}},{"id":"376094","reference":"AQW 1648/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-16","answerBy":"2022-07-01","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the process for anyone wishing to purchase their Housing Executive property before the House Sales Scheme ends in August; (ii) how the valuation of the property is determined; (iii) who conducts the valuation; and (iv) whether an independent valuation obtained by the buyer will be taken into consideration.","answerText":"The Housing Executive’s House Sales Scheme is not ending and therefore there is no change to the existing process for a Housing Executive tenant to purchase their home.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive’s House Sales Scheme is not ending and therefore there is no change to the existing process for a Housing Executive tenant to purchase their home.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201648%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376094"}},{"id":"376092","reference":"AQW 1646/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-16","answerBy":"2022-07-01","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the trend in the number of dentists providing NHS treatment; and (ii) what steps he is taking to ensure there is adequate provision of NHS dental care.","answerText":"Information is not held on dental practices and dentists that are currently accepting new Health Service (HS) patients or if they have any self-imposed limits on HS patient registrations. Information is however available on the number of active dental contracts, where dentists have entered an arrangement with the Department to provide HS dental services.\n\nData provided by the Business Services Organisation shows that since 2016/17 there has been an increase in the number of dentists who accepted at least one new HS patient. There has however been a slight fall in this number since 2019/20 (see below table).\n\nFinancial Year\tGDS Dentists\nNumber active at 31st March\tNumber at 31st March that accepted at least one new HS patient1\n2016/17\t1,211\t1,142\n2017/18\t1,252\t1,189\n2018/19\t1,260\t1,200\n2019/20\t1,287\t1,216\n2020/21\t1,287\t1,192\n2021/22\t1,301\t1,190\n\nThe absence of any new HS patient registration in-year does not necessarily mean that the dentist is not currently accepting new HS patients.\n\nThe Department has made unprecedented investment into the industry in order to maintain the provision of HS dentistry, with over £76m being paid to independent General Dental Practitioners over the past two years in return for increasing levels of activity. However, given the pressures of the pandemic, it is to be expected that some practices have found their businesses unsustainable and have either had to close, or seek more profitable options.\n\nFurther support has been committed for the first half of 2022/23, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS), to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing. This investment has been supplemented by an additional £6.5m made available to practices via Revenue Grant Schemes in 2020/21 and 2021/22. This funding is designed to improve patient safety, practice efficiency and improve the resilience of practices in order to mitigate against future transmission of aerosol based respiratory diseases, and other infectious diseases.\n\nRecent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings, along with the introduction of the RSS in April 2022 has already resulted in an increase capacity within practices from 58% to 76% of pre-covid levels. This is expected to continue to improve over the coming months, as dentists work through their backlogs.\n\nThe Department is also developing options to increase the availability of appointments for non-registered patients who have urgent and emergency treatments needs. Patient registration timeframes have also been extended since the beginning of the pandemic to ensure that patients registration status is unaffected by any difficulties encountered in attending.\n\nIn addition, Urgent Dental Care Centres continue to provide cover for patients with dental emergencies who cannot be seen in practice, and these centres will be reverting to Relief of Dental Pain Clinics, with increased capacity, in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"Information is not held on dental practices and dentists that are currently accepting new Health Service (HS) patients or if they have any self-imposed limits on HS patient registrations. Information is however available on the number of active dental contracts, where dentists have entered an arrangement with the Department to provide HS dental services.
Data provided by the Business Services Organisation shows that since 2016/17 there has been an increase in the number of dentists who accepted at least one new HS patient. There has however been a slight fall in this number since 2019/20 (see below table).
| Financial Year | GDS Dentists | |
| Number active at 31st March | Number at 31st March that accepted at least one new HS patient1 | |
| 2016/17 | 1,211 | 1,142 |
| 2017/18 | 1,252 | 1,189 |
| 2018/19 | 1,260 | 1,200 |
| 2019/20 | 1,287 | 1,216 |
| 2020/21 | 1,287 | 1,192 |
| 2021/22 | 1,301 | 1,190 |
The absence of any new HS patient registration in-year does not necessarily mean that the dentist is not currently accepting new HS patients.
The Department has made unprecedented investment into the industry in order to maintain the provision of HS dentistry, with over £76m being paid to independent General Dental Practitioners over the past two years in return for increasing levels of activity. However, given the pressures of the pandemic, it is to be expected that some practices have found their businesses unsustainable and have either had to close, or seek more profitable options.
Further support has been committed for the first half of 2022/23, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS), to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing. This investment has been supplemented by an additional £6.5m made available to practices via Revenue Grant Schemes in 2020/21 and 2021/22. This funding is designed to improve patient safety, practice efficiency and improve the resilience of practices in order to mitigate against future transmission of aerosol based respiratory diseases, and other infectious diseases.
Recent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings, along with the introduction of the RSS in April 2022 has already resulted in an increase capacity within practices from 58% to 76% of pre-covid levels. This is expected to continue to improve over the coming months, as dentists work through their backlogs.
The Department is also developing options to increase the availability of appointments for non-registered patients who have urgent and emergency treatments needs. Patient registration timeframes have also been extended since the beginning of the pandemic to ensure that patients registration status is unaffected by any difficulties encountered in attending.
In addition, Urgent Dental Care Centres continue to provide cover for patients with dental emergencies who cannot be seen in practice, and these centres will be reverting to Relief of Dental Pain Clinics, with increased capacity, in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201646%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376092"}},{"id":"376091","reference":"AQW 1645/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-16","answerBy":"2022-06-21","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the mechanisms via which the various Cost of Living Payments announced by the UK Government will be distributed to people in Northern Ireland; (ii) when they will be delivered; and (iii) who will receive each payment.","answerText":"Information on the Cost of Living payments for people here can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cost-living-support.","answerHtml":"Information on the Cost of Living payments for people here can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/cost-living-support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201645%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=376091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=376091"}},{"id":"375934","reference":"AQW 1553/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 631/22-27, to detail the number and nature of any enquiries by businesses interested in becoming tenants at Coleraine’s Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus, since its creation.","answerText":"As I stated in my previous written response, Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus. My Department does not therefore hold this information.","answerHtml":"As I stated in my previous written response, Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus. My Department does not therefore hold this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201553%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375934"}},{"id":"375933","reference":"AQW 1552/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail for each constituency (i) the number of second homes; and (ii) the number of these that are (a) rented long-term: (b) rented short-term; and (c) not rented.","answerText":"The management information available to my Department, in relation to those properties rented out to private tenants, is taken from the Landlord Registration Scheme database and is produced by council area. We do not have information on the numbers of properties which are rented long term or short term or those which currently are without a tenant. In addition not all landlords own another home, for example if they are renting their current residence due to working abroad.\n\nTable below shows the number of rental properties on the database as of 6th June 2022 and the number of registered Landlords –\n\nCouncil\tLandlord Count\tProperty Count\nUnallocated postcodes (due to error in registration data)\t42\t129\n14\t40\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t3,001\t4,723\nArds and North Down\t4,380\t6,158\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon\t4,110\t8,109\nBelfast\t5,901\t20,673\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t3,088\t5,629\nDerry City and Strabane\t2,554\t5,706\nFermanagh and Omagh\t2,445\t4,050\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t3,774\t4,135\nMid and East Antrim\t3,344\t6,071\nMid Ulster\t2,938\t4,157\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t3,714\t5,040\nTotals\t39,305\t74,620","answerHtml":"The management information available to my Department, in relation to those properties rented out to private tenants, is taken from the Landlord Registration Scheme database and is produced by council area. We do not have information on the numbers of properties which are rented long term or short term or those which currently are without a tenant. In addition not all landlords own another home, for example if they are renting their current residence due to working abroad.
Table below shows the number of rental properties on the database as of 6th June 2022 and the number of registered Landlords –
| Council | Landlord Count | Property Count |
| Unallocated postcodes (due to error in registration data) | 42 | 129 |
| 14 | 40 | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 3,001 | 4,723 |
| Ards and North Down | 4,380 | 6,158 |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon | 4,110 | 8,109 |
| Belfast | 5,901 | 20,673 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 3,088 | 5,629 |
| Derry City and Strabane | 2,554 | 5,706 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 2,445 | 4,050 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 3,774 | 4,135 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 3,344 | 6,071 |
| Mid Ulster | 2,938 | 4,157 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 3,714 | 5,040 |
| Totals | 39,305 | 74,620 |
I have and will continue to take measures to improve housing provision.
I have secured investment of almost £380 million to deliver new social housing starts in the past two years. Indeed, the 2021/22 budget expenditure of £171.8m represented the highest level of Social Housing Development Programme related investment activity since the Housing Executive took on responsibility for managing its delivery in 2007.
I have provided £158m to Co-Ownership to help those who wish to own their own home and have progressed work to deliver new affordable housing options, such as, intermediate rent.
I have also taken action to increase the safety and security of the Private Rented sector, including by progressing legislation through the Assembly.
Despite the continued absence of a functioning Executive and agreed Executive budget, all options will continue to be explored.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201551%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375932"}},{"id":"375931","reference":"AQW 1550/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 671/22-27, to detail what conversations she has had with the Minister for the Economy and Tourism NI to (i) assess housing provision and need; and (ii) develop policies to address housing issues.","answerText":"I have developed a Housing Supply Strategy that sets out a long term framework for the delivery of housing supply to meet our needs and demands. One of the key issues identified in the Strategy is that of ensuring we have the right skills to deliver on our housing needs, in particular in addressing climate change commitments, retrofit and improved housing quality. My officials have engaged with DfE colleagues on this issue throughout the development of the Strategy.","answerHtml":"I have developed a Housing Supply Strategy that sets out a long term framework for the delivery of housing supply to meet our needs and demands. One of the key issues identified in the Strategy is that of ensuring we have the right skills to deliver on our housing needs, in particular in addressing climate change commitments, retrofit and improved housing quality. My officials have engaged with DfE colleagues on this issue throughout the development of the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201550%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375931"}},{"id":"375930","reference":"AQW 1549/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-15","answerBy":"2022-06-30","answered":"2022-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of active short-term holiday let licences, in each constituency, in each of the last five years; and (ii) what conversations he has had with Tourism NI regarding the number of short-term holiday let licences granted in holiday areas, which are experiencing a shortage of long-term rental properties for local residents.","answerText":"All tourist accommodation in Northern Ireland requires inspection and certification by Tourism NI, irrespective of the duration the business is being used as a tourist let. A certificate is renewable every four years and ensures a minimum standard is met by all accommodation providers.\n\nFor tourism businesses within the self catering sector, a tourist let may not be the primary use, with many properties also being utilised as student accommodation or personal holiday homes during the off-peak season.\n\nTourism NI is not legally required to hold a record of how many trading weeks tourism businesses operate but does record accommodation stock within each council area.\n\nThe latest figures for self catering stock by Council area including bedspace capacity are set out in the table below.\n\nCouncil\tBed Spaces\tRooms Units\tTotal Premises\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t328\t74\t54\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon\t487\t98\t72\nBelfast\t2679\t677\t452\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t12442\t2148\t1849\nDerry and Strabane\t787\t170\t117\nFermanagh and Omagh\t2564\t474\t265\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t504\t114\t84\nMid and East Antrim\t942\t205\t166\nMid Ulster\t805\t161\t117\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t2624\t521\t401\nNorth Down and Ards\t985\t221\t195\nTotal\t25147\t4863\t3772\n\nThere are other statutory requirements, such as planning permission or change of use requests for tourist accommodation, which fall outside the scope of Tourism NI’s legislative remit. Such responsibilities sit with individual councils. Tourism NI is not therefore responsible for controlling the number of tourist lets in any given area.","answerHtml":"All tourist accommodation in Northern Ireland requires inspection and certification by Tourism NI, irrespective of the duration the business is being used as a tourist let. A certificate is renewable every four years and ensures a minimum standard is met by all accommodation providers.
For tourism businesses within the self catering sector, a tourist let may not be the primary use, with many properties also being utilised as student accommodation or personal holiday homes during the off-peak season.
Tourism NI is not legally required to hold a record of how many trading weeks tourism businesses operate but does record accommodation stock within each council area.
The latest figures for self catering stock by Council area including bedspace capacity are set out in the table below.
| Council | Bed Spaces | Rooms Units | Total Premises |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 328 | 74 | 54 |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon | 487 | 98 | 72 |
| Belfast | 2679 | 677 | 452 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 12442 | 2148 | 1849 |
| Derry and Strabane | 787 | 170 | 117 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 2564 | 474 | 265 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 504 | 114 | 84 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 942 | 205 | 166 |
| Mid Ulster | 805 | 161 | 117 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 2624 | 521 | 401 |
| North Down and Ards | 985 | 221 | 195 |
| Total | 25147 | 4863 | 3772 |
There are other statutory requirements, such as planning permission or change of use requests for tourist accommodation, which fall outside the scope of Tourism NI’s legislative remit. Such responsibilities sit with individual councils. Tourism NI is not therefore responsible for controlling the number of tourist lets in any given area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201549%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375930","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375930"}},{"id":"375809","reference":"AQW 1467/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-14","answerBy":"2022-06-29","answered":"2022-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 632/22-27, how the absence of a rise in fuel allowance rates for domiciliary care workers is impacting the delivery of care packages in rural areas.","answerText":"Home care workers are raising concerns daily regarding the impact of increased fuel prices. For all trusts, it is becoming challenging to cover staff absence, with some staff choosing not to make themselves available to cover extra shifts as they advise the cost is impacting their own personal finances. The cost of fuel may also have an impact on future recruitment, which would have a negative impact on the ability of trusts to sustain services, particularly in rural areas. It is estimated, for example that a Domiciliary Care Worker will spend between 10 & 20% of their working day driving, depending on whether they are urban or rural based.\n\nTo mitigate any service disruption, each trust has a service continuity plan, which has been used during the Covid surge periods, whereby available resources will be targeted at those most critical cases based on a dynamic risk assessment approach.\n\nI recognise the difficulties faced by our healthcare staff due to rising fuel costs and I have approved a 50% increase to the secondary rate on annual mileage over 3,500 miles to bring it up to 30p per mile. This measure, which will be for an initial six month period, to be reviewed, will benefit those who are required to use their vehicles most frequently.\n\nPaying this increased rate through staff payroll systems will take some time to implement, in the interim, I have asked for further work to be undertaken to explore the feasibility of issuing fuel cards to eligible staff when they reach the 3,500 threshold.","answerHtml":"Home care workers are raising concerns daily regarding the impact of increased fuel prices. For all trusts, it is becoming challenging to cover staff absence, with some staff choosing not to make themselves available to cover extra shifts as they advise the cost is impacting their own personal finances. The cost of fuel may also have an impact on future recruitment, which would have a negative impact on the ability of trusts to sustain services, particularly in rural areas. It is estimated, for example that a Domiciliary Care Worker will spend between 10 & 20% of their working day driving, depending on whether they are urban or rural based.
To mitigate any service disruption, each trust has a service continuity plan, which has been used during the Covid surge periods, whereby available resources will be targeted at those most critical cases based on a dynamic risk assessment approach.
I recognise the difficulties faced by our healthcare staff due to rising fuel costs and I have approved a 50% increase to the secondary rate on annual mileage over 3,500 miles to bring it up to 30p per mile. This measure, which will be for an initial six month period, to be reviewed, will benefit those who are required to use their vehicles most frequently.
Paying this increased rate through staff payroll systems will take some time to implement, in the interim, I have asked for further work to be undertaken to explore the feasibility of issuing fuel cards to eligible staff when they reach the 3,500 threshold.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201467%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375809"}},{"id":"375804","reference":"AQW 1462/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-14","answerBy":"2022-06-29","answered":"2022-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the number of vacant properties in town centres; and (ii) what steps he is taking to support town centre businesses to prevent closures.","answerText":"This is not within the remit of my department. The Executive Office has established a High Street Task Force, whilst other departments have lead responsibility for town regeneration, planning and licensing.","answerHtml":"This is not within the remit of my department. The Executive Office has established a High Street Task Force, whilst other departments have lead responsibility for town regeneration, planning and licensing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201462%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375804"}},{"id":"375803","reference":"AQW 1461/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-14","answerBy":"2022-06-29","answered":"2022-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 683/22-27, to detail the Assembly and Executive mechanisms preventing her from progressing the Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"Legal advice has indicated that the updated proposals for the Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer require consideration and approval by the Executive.","answerHtml":"Legal advice has indicated that the updated proposals for the Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer require consideration and approval by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201461%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375803"}},{"id":"375802","reference":"AQW 1460/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-14","answerBy":"2022-06-29","answered":"2022-06-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 303/22-27, to detail any direct, on the ground assistance he is giving to businesses to help them fill staff vacancies.","answerText":"The Department for Communities’ Employer Engagement Service provides a service to businesses to help fill staff vacancies.\n\nMy Department’s Assured Skills academies provide demand led, pre-employment training programmes which offers new and expanding local companies the opportunity to work closely with the DfE, Invest NI (INI) and the Further and Higher Education sector to recruit high quality employees. All participants who successfully complete an Academy will be interviewed for a guaranteed job vacancy with the company. To date, in the 2021/22 financial year, 43 of the 48 academies scheduled have been completed, resulting in 552 of the 625 participants upskilled, accepting an offer of full-time employment.\n\nApprentices participating on the ApprenticeshipsNI Programme are in paid employment from day one and follow a national training framework which leads to the attainment of industry approved competence and knowledge based qualifications, at Level 2 or 3. My Department’s Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme provides funding for the delivery of off the job training at levels 4 to 7, which is equivalent to Foundation Degree through to Masters level study. HLAs are demand-led, work-based programmes designed around the needs of employers, offering recognised Higher Education qualifications to new employees and existing employees taking on new roles which require significant training and development.\n\nMy Department also provides assistance through the provision of Traineeships and Advanced Technical Awards at level 3 which prioritise those skills that are most economically relevant and contribute to increasing the proportion of working age population with qualifications at level 2 and level 3.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities’ Employer Engagement Service provides a service to businesses to help fill staff vacancies.
My Department’s Assured Skills academies provide demand led, pre-employment training programmes which offers new and expanding local companies the opportunity to work closely with the DfE, Invest NI (INI) and the Further and Higher Education sector to recruit high quality employees. All participants who successfully complete an Academy will be interviewed for a guaranteed job vacancy with the company. To date, in the 2021/22 financial year, 43 of the 48 academies scheduled have been completed, resulting in 552 of the 625 participants upskilled, accepting an offer of full-time employment.
Apprentices participating on the ApprenticeshipsNI Programme are in paid employment from day one and follow a national training framework which leads to the attainment of industry approved competence and knowledge based qualifications, at Level 2 or 3. My Department’s Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) programme provides funding for the delivery of off the job training at levels 4 to 7, which is equivalent to Foundation Degree through to Masters level study. HLAs are demand-led, work-based programmes designed around the needs of employers, offering recognised Higher Education qualifications to new employees and existing employees taking on new roles which require significant training and development.
My Department also provides assistance through the provision of Traineeships and Advanced Technical Awards at level 3 which prioritise those skills that are most economically relevant and contribute to increasing the proportion of working age population with qualifications at level 2 and level 3.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201460%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375802"}},{"id":"375801","reference":"AQW 1459/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-14","answerBy":"2022-06-29","answered":"2022-08-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people awaiting domiciliary care packages that have chosen to avail of free residential, care or nursing home accommodation offered by his Department, in each constituency in the last 12 months; (ii) the estimated total monthly cost of the care packages required; and (iii) the estimated total monthly cost of the residential, care or nursing home accommodation provided.","answerText":"(i) In the past twelve months there are a recorded 1,027 people awaiting domiciliary care packages that have chosen to avail of free residential care or nursing home accommodation. However this is believed to be an under estimation of the total number of people, as one Trust, The Western Health and Social Care Trust, were unable to provide the data in the required timeframe. The breakdown of the known people awaiting a domiciliary care package that have chosen to avail of free residential or nursing home care as per Trust locality is provided in the attached table (column 2).\n\n(ii) From the information available, the known estimated total monthly cost of the care packages required for the 1,027 people awaiting domiciliary care packages across the region equates to £180,234 (based on an hourly rate of £18). The breakdown of the known total monthly cost of the care packages required per Trust locality is provided in the attached table (column 3). However this is believed to be an under estimation of the total monthly cost of the care packages required, as two Trusts, The Western Health and Social Care Trust and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, were unable to provide this data in the required timeframe.\n\n(iii) From the information available, which is based on returns for four of the five Trusts, the estimated total monthly cost of the residential and nursing home care provided for the 1,027 people awaiting domiciliary care packages, equates in the region of £3 million (based on the 2022/23 tariff rates). As information was not available in the required timeframe, as to the exact length of stay for each person, this calculation is based on the assumption that each person resided in the care home for the full month. The breakdown of the assumed total monthly cost of the residential and nursing home care provided as per Trust locality is provided in the attached table (column 4 and column 5).\n\nTrust\tNumber of people awaiting domiciliary care availing of res/PNH care\tTotal monthly cost of the care packages required\tTotal monthly cost of residential care provided.\tTotal monthly cost of the nursing home care provided.\nSHSCT\t62\tTrust unable to provide the total number of care hours so total monthly cost not available\t£ 20,672\t£173,448\nSEHSCT\t133\t£40,410 (based on 2245 total care hours required)\t£126,616\t£269,808\nBHSCT\t627\t£125,064 (based on 6948 total care hours required )\t£191,216\t£1,776,236\nNHSCT\t205\t£14,760 (based on 820 total care hours required)\t£594,090\n*average cost across res/PNH as specific category of home not provided\nWHSCT\tTrust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost\tTrust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost\tTrust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost\tTrust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost","answerHtml":"(i) In the past twelve months there are a recorded 1,027 people awaiting domiciliary care packages that have chosen to avail of free residential care or nursing home accommodation. However this is believed to be an under estimation of the total number of people, as one Trust, The Western Health and Social Care Trust, were unable to provide the data in the required timeframe. The breakdown of the known people awaiting a domiciliary care package that have chosen to avail of free residential or nursing home care as per Trust locality is provided in the attached table (column 2).
(ii) From the information available, the known estimated total monthly cost of the care packages required for the 1,027 people awaiting domiciliary care packages across the region equates to £180,234 (based on an hourly rate of £18). The breakdown of the known total monthly cost of the care packages required per Trust locality is provided in the attached table (column 3). However this is believed to be an under estimation of the total monthly cost of the care packages required, as two Trusts, The Western Health and Social Care Trust and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, were unable to provide this data in the required timeframe.
(iii) From the information available, which is based on returns for four of the five Trusts, the estimated total monthly cost of the residential and nursing home care provided for the 1,027 people awaiting domiciliary care packages, equates in the region of £3 million (based on the 2022/23 tariff rates). As information was not available in the required timeframe, as to the exact length of stay for each person, this calculation is based on the assumption that each person resided in the care home for the full month. The breakdown of the assumed total monthly cost of the residential and nursing home care provided as per Trust locality is provided in the attached table (column 4 and column 5).
| Trust | Number of people awaiting domiciliary care availing of res/PNH care | Total monthly cost of the care packages required | Total monthly cost of residential care provided. | Total monthly cost of the nursing home care provided. |
| SHSCT | 62 | Trust unable to provide the total number of care hours so total monthly cost not available | £ 20,672 | £173,448 |
| SEHSCT | 133 | £40,410 (based on 2245 total care hours required) | £126,616 | £269,808 |
| BHSCT | 627 | £125,064 (based on 6948 total care hours required ) | £191,216 | £1,776,236 |
| NHSCT | 205 | £14,760 (based on 820 total care hours required) | £594,090 *average cost across res/PNH as specific category of home not provided | |
| WHSCT | Trust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost | Trust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost | Trust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost | Trust unable to provide this information as would require a manual count at disproportionate cost |
There are many factors that impact on the price of electricity including the availability of renewables on the system. In periods of high wind, prices tend to drop with the highest prices associated with a lower wind forecast.
When renewable energy is available on the system, it has a dampening effect on the wholesale price, pushing down the price set by traditional thermal generation.
However, renewable energy availability is intermittent and the system remains reliant on traditional fossil-fuelled generation to ensure security of supply. Therefore, the predominant influence on electricity prices remains the wholesale cost of fuel.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201375%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375604","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375604"}},{"id":"375603","reference":"AQW 1374/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-13","answerBy":"2022-06-28","answered":"2022-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) what new strategies and initiatives he is planning in order to aid suicide prevention efforts; and (ii) what support his Department gives to the community and voluntary sector organisations that are involved in this issue.","answerText":"The Protect Life 2 Strategy contains a wide range of actions to reduce suicide and self-harm in Northern Ireland. The implementation of the Strategy is taken forward through the Protect Life 2 Steering Group, and the Public Health Agency lead on the implementation of the Health Actions. A smaller number of actions are delivered through HSC Trusts.\n\nUpdates against all actions of the Protect Life 2 Strategy can be found at:\n\nProtect Life 2: Action Plan brief update (health-ni.gov.uk)\n\nAround £10m is invested each year by DoH on suicide prevention. Additional funding was sought on suicide prevention in the 2022-25 Draft Budget exercise to enable the commissioning of new suicide prevention services. However, the availability of funding will be determined by the budget allocation my Department receives once a budget is agreed. I am very conscious of pressing demands for extra funding across many areas of health and social care and as Minister, I will continue to do the best I can to deliver for the public with the resources I have available.\n\nSubject to future funding Protect Life 2 aims to expand existing services including Multi Agency Triage Team, Self Harm Improvement Programme, Towards Zero Suicide, Training and awareness raising. New services are also planned around support for those bereaved by suicide, safety planning and promotion of self-care.\n\n£3.49 million was given to Community and Voluntary Organisations under Protect Life 2 in 2021/22. £1.32 million was given to Community and Voluntary Organisations through small grants in 2021/22. Since March 2021 the Department has made available £16m through the Mental Health Support Fund which supports Community and Voluntary organisations that aim to improve the mental health and emotional wellbeing of the population. A full list of supported projects can be found at: Mental Health Support Fund Round 1 Successful Applicants\n\nMental Health Support Fund Additional Funding and Successful Applicants","answerHtml":"The Protect Life 2 Strategy contains a wide range of actions to reduce suicide and self-harm in Northern Ireland. The implementation of the Strategy is taken forward through the Protect Life 2 Steering Group, and the Public Health Agency lead on the implementation of the Health Actions. A smaller number of actions are delivered through HSC Trusts.
Updates against all actions of the Protect Life 2 Strategy can be found at:
Protect Life 2: Action Plan brief update (health-ni.gov.uk)
Around £10m is invested each year by DoH on suicide prevention. Additional funding was sought on suicide prevention in the 2022-25 Draft Budget exercise to enable the commissioning of new suicide prevention services. However, the availability of funding will be determined by the budget allocation my Department receives once a budget is agreed. I am very conscious of pressing demands for extra funding across many areas of health and social care and as Minister, I will continue to do the best I can to deliver for the public with the resources I have available.
Subject to future funding Protect Life 2 aims to expand existing services including Multi Agency Triage Team, Self Harm Improvement Programme, Towards Zero Suicide, Training and awareness raising. New services are also planned around support for those bereaved by suicide, safety planning and promotion of self-care.
£3.49 million was given to Community and Voluntary Organisations under Protect Life 2 in 2021/22. £1.32 million was given to Community and Voluntary Organisations through small grants in 2021/22. Since March 2021 the Department has made available £16m through the Mental Health Support Fund which supports Community and Voluntary organisations that aim to improve the mental health and emotional wellbeing of the population. A full list of supported projects can be found at: Mental Health Support Fund Round 1 Successful Applicants
Mental Health Support Fund Additional Funding and Successful Applicants
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201374%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375603","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375603"}},{"id":"375602","reference":"AQW 1373/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-13","answerBy":"2022-06-28","answered":"2022-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to highlight the importance of men’s health and to encourage men to seek medical diagnoses when symptoms are present.","answerText":"A number of initiatives aimed at promoting and improving men’s health are funded/co-ordinated by the Public Health Agency. These include male-specific health checks in Healthy Living Centres; a Farm family health check programme; investment in sexual health clinics for Men who have sex with Men (MSM); Men’s health checks online, as well as Low Threshold Services as part of drugs and alcohol services; a wide range of health promotion based activity programmes specifically for males such as horticulture, angling, walking, football, music, arts, and sports; training programmes in HSC Trusts focusing on engaging men on mental health and emotional wellbeing; and Men’s Health Week support by local Connections teams and PHA-funded Council staff.\n\nThe PHA also provides funding for the Men’s Shed movement which supports key priorities of tackling health inequalities, reducing isolation and loneliness, and promoting positive mental health.\n\nThe Diabetes Prevention Programme NI supports men at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to reduce their risk through lifestyle choices supported by health coaching, and an early diagnosis cancer campaign was delivered in 2021 through the Living Well service. This campaign engaged with men to provide information on cancers, including male-specific cancers, and their signs and symptoms.","answerHtml":"A number of initiatives aimed at promoting and improving men’s health are funded/co-ordinated by the Public Health Agency. These include male-specific health checks in Healthy Living Centres; a Farm family health check programme; investment in sexual health clinics for Men who have sex with Men (MSM); Men’s health checks online, as well as Low Threshold Services as part of drugs and alcohol services; a wide range of health promotion based activity programmes specifically for males such as horticulture, angling, walking, football, music, arts, and sports; training programmes in HSC Trusts focusing on engaging men on mental health and emotional wellbeing; and Men’s Health Week support by local Connections teams and PHA-funded Council staff.
The PHA also provides funding for the Men’s Shed movement which supports key priorities of tackling health inequalities, reducing isolation and loneliness, and promoting positive mental health.
The Diabetes Prevention Programme NI supports men at risk of developing type 2 diabetes to reduce their risk through lifestyle choices supported by health coaching, and an early diagnosis cancer campaign was delivered in 2021 through the Living Well service. This campaign engaged with men to provide information on cancers, including male-specific cancers, and their signs and symptoms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201373%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375602"}},{"id":"375601","reference":"AQW 1372/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-13","answerBy":"2022-06-28","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of deaths in which drugs were a factor, broken down by constituency, in each of the past five years.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) collates and publishes data on death registrations as collected by the General Register Office.\n\nThe information requested is provided in the table below. It should be noted that following the recently concluded review of suicide statistics, the number of drug-related deaths (along with other causes of death), for the period 2015-2020 are subject to slight revision. Revised data on deaths by cause will be published later this month.\n\nFurther information on the review of suicide statistics is available online at https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/review-suicide-statistics-northern-ireland\n\nTable 1: Drug-Related deaths by Parliamentary Constituency, 2016-2020\n\nName\t2016\t2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\nBELFAST EAST\t8\t13\t14\t11\t16\nBELFAST NORTH\t18\t14\t28\t40\t29\nBELFAST SOUTH\t9\t13\t14\t21\t15\nBELFAST WEST\t7\t12\t21\t23\t28\nEAST ANTRIM\t7\t8\t8\t5\t10\nEAST LONDONDERRY\t7\t7\t3\t14\t7\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t6\t6\t11\t6\t7\nFOYLE\t10\t8\t7\t7\t18\nLAGAN VALLEY\t5\t7\t6\t13\t7\nMID ULSTER\t3\t11\t2\t8\t6\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t5\t3\t6\t5\t10\nNORTH ANTRIM\t8\t8\t16\t6\t21\nNORTH DOWN\t6\t5\t8\t7\t18\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t7\t7\t8\t2\t5\nSOUTH DOWN\t6\t6\t10\t7\t6\nSTRANGFORD\t5\t1\t6\t5\t6\nUPPER BANN\t8\t6\t16\t6\t9\nWEST TYRONE\t2\t1\t5\t5\t0\nAll\t127\t136\t189\t191\t218","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) collates and publishes data on death registrations as collected by the General Register Office.
The information requested is provided in the table below. It should be noted that following the recently concluded review of suicide statistics, the number of drug-related deaths (along with other causes of death), for the period 2015-2020 are subject to slight revision. Revised data on deaths by cause will be published later this month.
Further information on the review of suicide statistics is available online at https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/review-suicide-statistics-northern-ireland
Table 1: Drug-Related deaths by Parliamentary Constituency, 2016-2020
| Name | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 |
| BELFAST EAST | 8 | 13 | 14 | 11 | 16 |
| BELFAST NORTH | 18 | 14 | 28 | 40 | 29 |
| BELFAST SOUTH | 9 | 13 | 14 | 21 | 15 |
| BELFAST WEST | 7 | 12 | 21 | 23 | 28 |
| EAST ANTRIM | 7 | 8 | 8 | 5 | 10 |
| EAST LONDONDERRY | 7 | 7 | 3 | 14 | 7 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 6 | 6 | 11 | 6 | 7 |
| FOYLE | 10 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 18 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 5 | 7 | 6 | 13 | 7 |
| MID ULSTER | 3 | 11 | 2 | 8 | 6 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 5 | 3 | 6 | 5 | 10 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 8 | 8 | 16 | 6 | 21 |
| NORTH DOWN | 6 | 5 | 8 | 7 | 18 |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 7 | 7 | 8 | 2 | 5 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 6 | 6 | 10 | 7 | 6 |
| STRANGFORD | 5 | 1 | 6 | 5 | 6 |
| UPPER BANN | 8 | 6 | 16 | 6 | 9 |
| WEST TYRONE | 2 | 1 | 5 | 5 | 0 |
| All | 127 | 136 | 189 | 191 | 218 |
On 20th June, I made a statement to the House confirming publication of the Reshaping Stroke Care consultation analysis report and subsequent Action Plan which sets out the way forward for the reform of stroke care in Northern Ireland. Both documents are available on my Department’s website at www.health-ni.gov.uk/reshaping-stroke-care
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201371%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375600"}},{"id":"375438","reference":"AQW 1295/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of surgeries delayed or cancelled in each Health and Social Care Trust, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201295%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375438"}},{"id":"375437","reference":"AQW 1294/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":"2022-07-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how adults with learning disabilities, who do not have a social worker, can receive a referral to day services.","answerText":"An adult with a learning disability can receive a referral to day centre following a referral to Social Services and subsequent assessment of need. If an adult with a learning disability does not have a social worker, a referral to Social Services could be made by any professional e.g. GP, Nurse or family member/carer for assessment in respect of day centre service provision. There may also be opportunity for adults with learning disabilities who do not have a social worker to access day activities through their local community or voluntary groups.","answerHtml":"An adult with a learning disability can receive a referral to day centre following a referral to Social Services and subsequent assessment of need. If an adult with a learning disability does not have a social worker, a referral to Social Services could be made by any professional e.g. GP, Nurse or family member/carer for assessment in respect of day centre service provision. There may also be opportunity for adults with learning disabilities who do not have a social worker to access day activities through their local community or voluntary groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201294%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375437"}},{"id":"375436","reference":"AQW 1293/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":"2022-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of staff shortages in the frontline health and social care sector; (ii) to detail the areas most affected; and (iii) to detail the steps being taken to address the shortages.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the impact of staff shortages across the whole health and social care system, including on front line service provision. Health and social care organisations are under unrelenting pressure to deliver safe and effective care. This has been exacerbated over the recent period by the pandemic and the associated increased levels of absence due to sickness and self-isolation of staff.\n\nThe following table shows the latest published figures on HSC vacancies (at 31 March 2022). There were 6,778 HSC vacancies actively being recruited to, equating to an overall vacancy rate of 8.1%. The largest number of vacancies (2,067 – 9.9%) related to registered nurses and midwives, while the highest vacancy rate was for social care workers (10.3% – 997).\n\nHSC Vacancies by Staff Group\nStaff Group\tVacancies actively being recruited to at 31 March 2022\t% Vacancy rate for each Staff Group and Total\nAdmin & Clerical\t943\t6.1%\nEstates Services Staff\t73\t8.2%\nSupport Services/User Experience\t369\t5.1%\nRegistered Nursing & Midwifery\t2,067\t9.9%\nNurse/midwifery support\t490\t8.4%\nSocial workers\t485\t9.6%\nSocial care workers\t997\t10.3%\nProfessional & Technical\t1,002\t8.3%\nMedical & Dental\t323\t5.8%\nAmbulance\t9\t0.6%\nTotal\t6,778\t8.1%\n\nSource: HSC organisations\n\nSimilar challenges exist in the independent social care sector with, for example, continuing staffing pressures in care homes having knock on effects in delayed hospital discharge.\n\nAction to address operational staff pressures is led by health and social care employers who have developed frameworks to address these issues. The starting point is seeking targeted additional voluntary resource, which can take the form of additional bank shifts, voluntary redeployment and, where necessary, employment of agency or locum staff.\n\nActive recruitment to permanent HSC Trust vacancies is proceeding at pace. This is targeted at existing trained staff, newly qualified professionals, and doctors and nurses who have joined the HSC through our successful international recruitment programmes. At 31 May 2022, 1,023 international nurses have been recruited and remain in post. I approved a further phase of international nurse recruitment in February 2022. This has the potential to deliver a further 3,000 international nurses over the next five years, subject to the provision of the necessary funding.\n\nIn November 2021 I announced a support package of up to £23m to enable social care employers to offer improved rates of pay and attract staff for the domiciliary care and care home workforces. To date, there has been positive feedback on how this additional funding has helped to stabilise the sector and supported recruitment and retention. Despite a very challenging financial position, I have prioritised funding this year to continue supporting this sector. Long-term, transformational change is needed in this essential area and is the subject of the current consultation on the Reform of Adult Social Care (26 January 2022 – 1 July 2022).\n\nGrowing our overall workforce supply to meet anticipated future demand is our long-term aim and we can point to significant progress in some areas. For example, since 2015/16 the annual number of pre-registration nursing and midwifery university places commissioned by my Department has increased by 88%; from 710 to an all-time high in 2022/23 of 1,335. This is a hugely significant investment in our future workforce.\n\nHowever, much more needs to be done. Accordingly, on 8 June 2022 I published the Second Health and Social Care Action Plan setting out a challenging range of measures to train, recruit and retain healthcare staff to ensure that we have a workforce of the optimum size and with the right range of skills. Growing the local supply of healthcare workers depends upon the availability of significant, sustained, recurrent investment in pre- and post-registration education and training. Current levels of funding are wholly inadequate and the one year funding cycle the Department has had to work under seriously constrains a proper assessment of affordability and frustrates long term investment in these areas.\n\nIt is therefore essential that my Department has a multi-year budget to produce a three year education and training budget plan.\n\nRestoration of the Executive is essential, so that the difficult, long-term decisions about the prioritisation and allocation of finance for investment in the healthcare workforce can be made.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the impact of staff shortages across the whole health and social care system, including on front line service provision. Health and social care organisations are under unrelenting pressure to deliver safe and effective care. This has been exacerbated over the recent period by the pandemic and the associated increased levels of absence due to sickness and self-isolation of staff.
The following table shows the latest published figures on HSC vacancies (at 31 March 2022). There were 6,778 HSC vacancies actively being recruited to, equating to an overall vacancy rate of 8.1%. The largest number of vacancies (2,067 – 9.9%) related to registered nurses and midwives, while the highest vacancy rate was for social care workers (10.3% – 997).
| HSC Vacancies by Staff Group | ||
| Staff Group | Vacancies actively being recruited to at 31 March 2022 | % Vacancy rate for each Staff Group and Total |
| Admin & Clerical | 943 | 6.1% |
| Estates Services Staff | 73 | 8.2% |
| Support Services/User Experience | 369 | 5.1% |
| Registered Nursing & Midwifery | 2,067 | 9.9% |
| Nurse/midwifery support | 490 | 8.4% |
| Social workers | 485 | 9.6% |
| Social care workers | 997 | 10.3% |
| Professional & Technical | 1,002 | 8.3% |
| Medical & Dental | 323 | 5.8% |
| Ambulance | 9 | 0.6% |
| Total | 6,778 | 8.1% |
Source: HSC organisations
Similar challenges exist in the independent social care sector with, for example, continuing staffing pressures in care homes having knock on effects in delayed hospital discharge.
Action to address operational staff pressures is led by health and social care employers who have developed frameworks to address these issues. The starting point is seeking targeted additional voluntary resource, which can take the form of additional bank shifts, voluntary redeployment and, where necessary, employment of agency or locum staff.
Active recruitment to permanent HSC Trust vacancies is proceeding at pace. This is targeted at existing trained staff, newly qualified professionals, and doctors and nurses who have joined the HSC through our successful international recruitment programmes. At 31 May 2022, 1,023 international nurses have been recruited and remain in post. I approved a further phase of international nurse recruitment in February 2022. This has the potential to deliver a further 3,000 international nurses over the next five years, subject to the provision of the necessary funding.
In November 2021 I announced a support package of up to £23m to enable social care employers to offer improved rates of pay and attract staff for the domiciliary care and care home workforces. To date, there has been positive feedback on how this additional funding has helped to stabilise the sector and supported recruitment and retention. Despite a very challenging financial position, I have prioritised funding this year to continue supporting this sector. Long-term, transformational change is needed in this essential area and is the subject of the current consultation on the Reform of Adult Social Care (26 January 2022 – 1 July 2022).
Growing our overall workforce supply to meet anticipated future demand is our long-term aim and we can point to significant progress in some areas. For example, since 2015/16 the annual number of pre-registration nursing and midwifery university places commissioned by my Department has increased by 88%; from 710 to an all-time high in 2022/23 of 1,335. This is a hugely significant investment in our future workforce.
However, much more needs to be done. Accordingly, on 8 June 2022 I published the Second Health and Social Care Action Plan setting out a challenging range of measures to train, recruit and retain healthcare staff to ensure that we have a workforce of the optimum size and with the right range of skills. Growing the local supply of healthcare workers depends upon the availability of significant, sustained, recurrent investment in pre- and post-registration education and training. Current levels of funding are wholly inadequate and the one year funding cycle the Department has had to work under seriously constrains a proper assessment of affordability and frustrates long term investment in these areas.
It is therefore essential that my Department has a multi-year budget to produce a three year education and training budget plan.
Restoration of the Executive is essential, so that the difficult, long-term decisions about the prioritisation and allocation of finance for investment in the healthcare workforce can be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201293%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375436","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375436"}},{"id":"375410","reference":"AQW 1267/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of children currently (i) being treated for; and (ii) on a waiting list to receive treatment or support for, mental health issues.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201267%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375410"}},{"id":"375409","reference":"AQW 1266/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-10","answerBy":"2022-06-27","answered":"2022-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline the challenges in providing domiciliary care within the community in the Western and Northern Health and Social Care Trusts; (ii) how many service users are currently without their (a) full assessed care package; or (b) part of their assessed care package; and (iii) for his assessment of the capacity of care providers in these areas to fully provide services.","answerText":"You will be aware that on 24 November 2021 I announced a support package of up to £23m for the independent domiciliary and wider social care sector. This additional funding has been provided with the expectation that providers will not only maintain current service levels, but increase capacity and be in a position to reach out particularly into rural areas.\n\nCovid-19 related and non Covid-19 related absences throughout the pandemic have been a challenge for all domiciliary care providers. The demand for domiciliary care has increased as well as the complexity of need of service users. Recently fuel cost increases have put additional pressures on the domiciliary care sector. Providers operate rolling recruitment exercises to fill workforce vacancies.\n\nThe table below summaries the current numbers of people who are waiting on a full or part packages of care in the Northern and Western Trust areas.\n\nTRUST\tDATE\tFULL PACKAGE WAITS\tPARTIAL PACKAGE WAITS\nNumber of Clients\tNumber of Clients\nNHSCT\t9.6.22\t498\t349\nWHSCT\t6.6.22\t261\t108\n\nI will continue to support the domiciliary car sector in their attempts to meet the current demand for packages of care in the community. The local HSC Trusts are promoting Direct Payments as an alternative to traditional packages of care and we would encourage as many people as possible in the community to avail of this option.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that on 24 November 2021 I announced a support package of up to £23m for the independent domiciliary and wider social care sector. This additional funding has been provided with the expectation that providers will not only maintain current service levels, but increase capacity and be in a position to reach out particularly into rural areas.
Covid-19 related and non Covid-19 related absences throughout the pandemic have been a challenge for all domiciliary care providers. The demand for domiciliary care has increased as well as the complexity of need of service users. Recently fuel cost increases have put additional pressures on the domiciliary care sector. Providers operate rolling recruitment exercises to fill workforce vacancies.
The table below summaries the current numbers of people who are waiting on a full or part packages of care in the Northern and Western Trust areas.
| TRUST | DATE | FULL PACKAGE WAITS | PARTIAL PACKAGE WAITS |
| Number of Clients | Number of Clients | ||
| NHSCT | 9.6.22 | 498 | 349 |
| WHSCT | 6.6.22 | 261 | 108 |
I will continue to support the domiciliary car sector in their attempts to meet the current demand for packages of care in the community. The local HSC Trusts are promoting Direct Payments as an alternative to traditional packages of care and we would encourage as many people as possible in the community to avail of this option.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201266%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375409"}},{"id":"375359","reference":"AQW 1234/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-09","answerBy":"2022-06-24","answered":"2022-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of instances of self-harm reported in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Information provided by the Public Health Agency (PHA) on the number of presentations at emergency departments due to self-harm is not available at a constituency level, but has been provided for each Health and Social Care Trust in the table overleaf.\n\nNumber of self-harm presentations to emergency departments by Health & Social Care Trust (2015/16 - 2019/20)\n\nBelfast\nHSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouthern\nHSCT\tWestern\nHSCT\tNorthern Ireland\n2015/16\t2,682\t1,185\t1,813\t1,667\t1,763\t9,110\n2016/17\t2,568\t1,201\t1,791\t1,521\t1,664\t8,745\n2017/18\t2,683\t1,262\t1,767\t1,614\t1,800\t9,126\n2018/19\t2,456\t1,177\t1,910\t1,599\t2,100\t9,242\n2019/20\t2,288\t1,330\t1,926\t1,519\t1,882\t8,945\n\nSource: Deliberate Self-Harm Register, Public Health Agency","answerHtml":"Information provided by the Public Health Agency (PHA) on the number of presentations at emergency departments due to self-harm is not available at a constituency level, but has been provided for each Health and Social Care Trust in the table overleaf.
Number of self-harm presentations to emergency departments by Health & Social Care Trust (2015/16 - 2019/20)
| Belfast HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Northern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Northern Ireland | |
| 2015/16 | 2,682 | 1,185 | 1,813 | 1,667 | 1,763 | 9,110 |
| 2016/17 | 2,568 | 1,201 | 1,791 | 1,521 | 1,664 | 8,745 |
| 2017/18 | 2,683 | 1,262 | 1,767 | 1,614 | 1,800 | 9,126 |
| 2018/19 | 2,456 | 1,177 | 1,910 | 1,599 | 2,100 | 9,242 |
| 2019/20 | 2,288 | 1,330 | 1,926 | 1,519 | 1,882 | 8,945 |
Source: Deliberate Self-Harm Register, Public Health Agency
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201234%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375359"}},{"id":"375358","reference":"AQW 1233/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-09","answerBy":"2022-06-24","answered":"2022-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on (i) the number of service users awaiting care packages in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) changes that have been made to the number of hours of care provision calls; (iii) his assessment of the current challenges for domiciliary care and the sustainability of services; and (iv) the steps he is taking in response to these challenges.","answerText":"As of 13 June, 1480 service users were reported as awaiting domiciliary care packages in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, of these 1077 were awaiting a full package of care and 403 were awaiting a partial package of care.\n\n(ii) The table below outlines the total number of hours of care delivered, over the past 5 years, within the Northern Trust area.\n\nTo year end\tHours of Care Delivered\nMarch 2017\t245,577\nMarch 2018\t245,085\nMarch 2019\t256,160\nMarch 2020\t259,191\nMarch 2021\t260,921\nMarch 2022\t254,071\n\nNote: This includes independent sector and internal Homecare service provision. Independent sector hours of care are reported in 13 periods throughout the year as opposed to months. The Independent sector hours have been adjusted to months based on manual calculation and the in house hours delivered have been adjusted based on the average hours delivered per month over the entire year to negate the impact of 5 week months.\n\n(iii)I recognise that there continue to be a range of difficulties facing the domiciliary care sector including for providers in retaining their staff, with rising costs being one element of this. There are also continued challenges presented by staff absence due to Covid-19, as well as a competitive wider recruitment environment.\n\nWhile domiciliary care services continue to experience significant pressures, my Department remains committed to the provision of a high quality domiciliary care service. Trusts endeavour to provide care packages where they are required, however, ultimately there are a range of factors which can impact upon this delivery, including staffing issues.\n\nWhere delivery of care packages has been negatively impacted, Trusts have in place mitigation measures to try to ensure delivery of services continues to be provided.\n\n(iv)In regards to action being taken, where a temporary care home placement is accepted for individuals awaiting implementation of a care package, my Department has advised Trusts to waive the usual care home placement fees until a suitable home care package has been developed. Trusts are continuing the messaging of encouraging a timely discharge process wherever possible through the use of care options such as care home placements, or informal support from family and friends.\n\nThe Department also reviewed and re-issued the regional Direct Payments guidance, to simplify the process, make it less restrictive (i.e. allowing for the employment of family members where no other workers can be identified) and make the option more attractive to prospective users.\n\nIn regards to support to the independent sector, you will be aware that in November last year I announced a support package of up to £23m, which supported independent domiciliary care providers to improve recruitment, employee retention, and Terms and Conditions for staff. This investment has allowed providers to deliver enhanced rates of pay and improve other terms and conditions, which may also include increased mileage rates, at individual employers’ discretion.\n\nDespite a very challenging financial climate I have ensured that sufficient funding was provided to Trusts to ensure this uplift was carried through to the current year and made recurrent. Although the overall demand for care packages continues to increase, I am confident that this funding has assisted in stabilising the sector, and has increased the capacity of providers to deliver care packages.\n\nIn recognition of the issues facing the sector in regards to increasing costs and the impact this may have on staffing and delivery of services, I was pleased to recently be able to announce a mileage rate increase for Agenda for Change (AfC) staff, including Trust employed domiciliary care workers and district nurses.\n\nI have tasked officials to continue engaging with the independent sector on ongoing challenges including the travel and other cost of living pressures facing staff. However, given the financial pressures and budgetary uncertainty, the room for manoeuvre in terms of additional funding is limited.\n\nThere remains a need to address issues in the long term. The work of the Reform of Adult Social Care will inform the long term strategic reform of the sector, including domiciliary care. As you may be aware, a public consultation recently closed, which sought views relating to long term proposals on the Reform of Adult Social Care. This public consultation set out proposals for reforming adult care and support and making significant system change. However, it should be noted that this reform package will require sustained additional investment and budgetary certainty.","answerHtml":"As of 13 June, 1480 service users were reported as awaiting domiciliary care packages in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, of these 1077 were awaiting a full package of care and 403 were awaiting a partial package of care.
(ii) The table below outlines the total number of hours of care delivered, over the past 5 years, within the Northern Trust area.
| To year end | Hours of Care Delivered |
| March 2017 | 245,577 |
| March 2018 | 245,085 |
| March 2019 | 256,160 |
| March 2020 | 259,191 |
| March 2021 | 260,921 |
| March 2022 | 254,071 |
Note: This includes independent sector and internal Homecare service provision. Independent sector hours of care are reported in 13 periods throughout the year as opposed to months. The Independent sector hours have been adjusted to months based on manual calculation and the in house hours delivered have been adjusted based on the average hours delivered per month over the entire year to negate the impact of 5 week months.
(iii)I recognise that there continue to be a range of difficulties facing the domiciliary care sector including for providers in retaining their staff, with rising costs being one element of this. There are also continued challenges presented by staff absence due to Covid-19, as well as a competitive wider recruitment environment.
While domiciliary care services continue to experience significant pressures, my Department remains committed to the provision of a high quality domiciliary care service. Trusts endeavour to provide care packages where they are required, however, ultimately there are a range of factors which can impact upon this delivery, including staffing issues.
Where delivery of care packages has been negatively impacted, Trusts have in place mitigation measures to try to ensure delivery of services continues to be provided.
(iv)In regards to action being taken, where a temporary care home placement is accepted for individuals awaiting implementation of a care package, my Department has advised Trusts to waive the usual care home placement fees until a suitable home care package has been developed. Trusts are continuing the messaging of encouraging a timely discharge process wherever possible through the use of care options such as care home placements, or informal support from family and friends.
The Department also reviewed and re-issued the regional Direct Payments guidance, to simplify the process, make it less restrictive (i.e. allowing for the employment of family members where no other workers can be identified) and make the option more attractive to prospective users.
In regards to support to the independent sector, you will be aware that in November last year I announced a support package of up to £23m, which supported independent domiciliary care providers to improve recruitment, employee retention, and Terms and Conditions for staff. This investment has allowed providers to deliver enhanced rates of pay and improve other terms and conditions, which may also include increased mileage rates, at individual employers’ discretion.
Despite a very challenging financial climate I have ensured that sufficient funding was provided to Trusts to ensure this uplift was carried through to the current year and made recurrent. Although the overall demand for care packages continues to increase, I am confident that this funding has assisted in stabilising the sector, and has increased the capacity of providers to deliver care packages.
In recognition of the issues facing the sector in regards to increasing costs and the impact this may have on staffing and delivery of services, I was pleased to recently be able to announce a mileage rate increase for Agenda for Change (AfC) staff, including Trust employed domiciliary care workers and district nurses.
I have tasked officials to continue engaging with the independent sector on ongoing challenges including the travel and other cost of living pressures facing staff. However, given the financial pressures and budgetary uncertainty, the room for manoeuvre in terms of additional funding is limited.
There remains a need to address issues in the long term. The work of the Reform of Adult Social Care will inform the long term strategic reform of the sector, including domiciliary care. As you may be aware, a public consultation recently closed, which sought views relating to long term proposals on the Reform of Adult Social Care. This public consultation set out proposals for reforming adult care and support and making significant system change. However, it should be noted that this reform package will require sustained additional investment and budgetary certainty.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201233%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375358"}},{"id":"375357","reference":"AQW 1232/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-09","answerBy":"2022-06-24","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the (i) current waiting time; and (ii) number of women waiting, for gynaecology appointments in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Outpatient waiting times are published by my Department on a quarterly basis. These publications refer to the position at the end of a given quarter, detailing how many patients are waiting for a first consultant led outpatient appointment broken down by HSC Trust, Specialty and length of time waiting.\n\nThe most recent Quarterly National Statistics publication of Outpatient Waiting Times for the position at 31st March 2022 are available at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-waiting-time-statistics-outpatient-waiting-times-march-2022.","answerHtml":"Outpatient waiting times are published by my Department on a quarterly basis. These publications refer to the position at the end of a given quarter, detailing how many patients are waiting for a first consultant led outpatient appointment broken down by HSC Trust, Specialty and length of time waiting.
The most recent Quarterly National Statistics publication of Outpatient Waiting Times for the position at 31st March 2022 are available at the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-waiting-time-statistics-outpatient-waiting-times-march-2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201232%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375357"}},{"id":"375356","reference":"AQW 1231/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-09","answerBy":"2022-06-24","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of jobseekers, trainees, apprentices and other individuals that have taken part in employment and skills programmes, funded in whole or part by her Department, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer this question, the information will be place in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer this question, the information will be place in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201231%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375356"}},{"id":"375355","reference":"AQW 1230/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-09","answerBy":"2022-06-24","answered":"2022-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what engagement he has had with the Minister of Education in relation to improving childcare provision for working parents.","answerText":"I have not had any engagement with the Minister of Education on this subject, as childcare provision is not within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"I have not had any engagement with the Minister of Education on this subject, as childcare provision is not within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201230%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375355"}},{"id":"375164","reference":"AQW 1155/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-08","answerBy":"2022-06-23","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what financial support he can provide community transport schemes which are transporting members of the public to and from health and social care settings.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201155%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375164","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375164"}},{"id":"375163","reference":"AQW 1154/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-08","answerBy":"2022-06-23","answered":"2022-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of staff shortages across all industry sectors; and (ii) what new steps he is taking to help (a) businesses find employees; and (b) people who are unemployed to find work.","answerText":"(i) Data published by the Office of National Statistics highlights that approximately two in five businesses (38.2%) in Northern Ireland were experiencing difficulties recruiting employees in April 2022 which is broadly in line with the UK average of 38.9%. Whilst no sectoral breakdown is provided and no official data exists, I am aware of worker shortages reported across a number of sectors including Agri-food, Hospitality, Construction, Manufacturing, ICT and Health and Social Care.\n\nAs evidenced through the monthly economic updates produced by my Department, unemployment has continued to decline over the last six months to the joint lowest on record (2.3%). This is coupled with higher than normal levels of advertised job vaccancies, highlightling an increasingly tight labour market in Northern Ireland.\n\n(ii) (a) In March 2022, my Department published the new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’. The Strategy focuses on three major policy objectives:\n\nAddressing skills imbalances, driving economic growth;\n\nCreating a culture of lifelong learning; and\n\nEnhancing digital skills, developing our digital spine.\n\nSuccessful implementation of ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’ over the next decade will ensure that Northern Ireland’s citizens and businesses increasingly have access to modern economically relevant skills that will empower them to reach their full potential and improve competitiveness on the global stage.\n\n(ii) (b) My Department continues to work collaboratively with the Department for Communities in the development and provision of skills-based interventions which support the unemployed to engage/re-engage with the labour market. This includes support and participation in a range of emerging initatives such as ‘Labour Market Partnerships’, the Disability Employment Strategy and refreshed approaches to addressing economic inactivity.","answerHtml":"(i) Data published by the Office of National Statistics highlights that approximately two in five businesses (38.2%) in Northern Ireland were experiencing difficulties recruiting employees in April 2022 which is broadly in line with the UK average of 38.9%. Whilst no sectoral breakdown is provided and no official data exists, I am aware of worker shortages reported across a number of sectors including Agri-food, Hospitality, Construction, Manufacturing, ICT and Health and Social Care.
As evidenced through the monthly economic updates produced by my Department, unemployment has continued to decline over the last six months to the joint lowest on record (2.3%). This is coupled with higher than normal levels of advertised job vaccancies, highlightling an increasingly tight labour market in Northern Ireland.
(ii) (a) In March 2022, my Department published the new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’. The Strategy focuses on three major policy objectives:
Addressing skills imbalances, driving economic growth;
Creating a culture of lifelong learning; and
Enhancing digital skills, developing our digital spine.
Successful implementation of ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’ over the next decade will ensure that Northern Ireland’s citizens and businesses increasingly have access to modern economically relevant skills that will empower them to reach their full potential and improve competitiveness on the global stage.
(ii) (b) My Department continues to work collaboratively with the Department for Communities in the development and provision of skills-based interventions which support the unemployed to engage/re-engage with the labour market. This includes support and participation in a range of emerging initatives such as ‘Labour Market Partnerships’, the Disability Employment Strategy and refreshed approaches to addressing economic inactivity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201154%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375163","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375163"}},{"id":"375161","reference":"AQW 1152/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-08","answerBy":"2022-06-23","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the first year enrolment numbers for (i) the University of Ulster; and (ii) Queen's University Belfast, in each of the past five years, broken down by campus.","answerText":"From the Office of the Minister\n\nGordon Lyons MLA\n\nThe table below sets out first year enrolments at (i) Ulster University and (ii) Queen's University Belfast by campus from 2016/17 to 2020/21.\n\nUlster University\tQueen's University Belfast\nYear\tBelfast\tColeraine\tBirmingham\tJordanstown\tLondon\tMagee\tTotal\n2016/17\t710\t1,620\t0\t5,735\t240\t1,715\t10,015\t10,835\n2017/18\t725\t1,530\t0\t5,365\t160\t1,730\t9,510\t11,625\n2018/19\t775\t1,605\t0\t5,940\t405\t1,695\t10,420\t11,165\n2019/20\t960\t1,620\t0\t6,115\t530\t4,565\t13,785\t11,715\n2020/21\t1,085\t1,735\t495\t6,480\t1,085\t6,955\t17,830\t11,490","answerHtml":"From the Office of the Minister
Gordon Lyons MLA
The table below sets out first year enrolments at (i) Ulster University and (ii) Queen's University Belfast by campus from 2016/17 to 2020/21.
| Ulster University | Queen's University Belfast | |||||||
| Year | Belfast | Coleraine | Birmingham | Jordanstown | London | Magee | Total | |
| 2016/17 | 710 | 1,620 | 0 | 5,735 | 240 | 1,715 | 10,015 | 10,835 |
| 2017/18 | 725 | 1,530 | 0 | 5,365 | 160 | 1,730 | 9,510 | 11,625 |
| 2018/19 | 775 | 1,605 | 0 | 5,940 | 405 | 1,695 | 10,420 | 11,165 |
| 2019/20 | 960 | 1,620 | 0 | 6,115 | 530 | 4,565 | 13,785 | 11,715 |
| 2020/21 | 1,085 | 1,735 | 495 | 6,480 | 1,085 | 6,955 | 17,830 | 11,490 |
In February 2022, I wrote to the HSC Trusts in regard to my decision to approve the Public Health Agency (PHA) Pathway to remobilise adult day-care, short breaks and transport services. I was clear that the Pathway should be implemented with immediate effect across all programmes of care including these services for older people, those with physical and sensory disabilities, and those with ill mental health.
Since May 2022, my department has been receiving updated rebuild plans on a fortnightly basis from each HSC Trust which outline the current position across each adult programme of care and which provides indicative timeframes for the full remobilisation of day centre provision to pre-pandemic capacity.
To date HSC trusts are continuing to build upon their day centre activity on a phased basis across all the programmes of care with progression to pre-Covid-19 activity. However, there remains a cohort of service users still not receiving adult day care and this will continue to be an area of focus.
It should be noted that for a percentage of service users, their assessed needs have changed from pre-pandemic levels which has resulted in the need for differing care requirements. Also, a percentage of service users and carers have chosen not to return to day care for a variety of reasons. Trusts continue to engage with those service users who have currently chosen not to uptake their day care entitlement to ensure their needs continue to be met through alternative service pathways whilst advising that the option of day care remains available to them.
Current barriers to full remobilisation of adult day centres include staffing availability, reduced estate, service user / carer choice to reduce /not return at present due to their CEV status, challenges with aspects of the guidance in regard to social distancing, isolation requirements, testing and vaccination. Some facilities have experienced Covid-19 outbreaks.
While it is clear that the Pathway has been an enabler to remobilise services, there remains further adjustments to public health guidance required before services can be fully restored to pre-pandemic levels. I have therefore asked PHA for an urgent formal review of the pathway which is due to be completed by the end June 2022.
Furthermore, I have committed to issuing a periodic communication to all MLAs to outline progress made by the Trusts.
It is regrettable that day centre provision has not yet been fully restored to pre-pandemic capacity. I sincerely apologise to those affected service users and their families and wish to offer the assurance that the full remobilisation of day care remains one of my key priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201151%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=375160","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=375160"}},{"id":"374994","reference":"AQW 1076/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-07","answerBy":"2022-06-22","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of patients at Causeway Hospital that have had travel to other locations to access MRI facilities in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The number of patients at Causeway Hospital that have had to travel to other locations to access MRI facilities in each of the last five years is detailed in the table below:\n\nYear\tReferrals\n2017/18\t343\n2018/19\t452\n2019/20\t532\n2020/21\t736\n2021/22\t849\n\nSource: Northern Health and Social Care Trust","answerHtml":"The number of patients at Causeway Hospital that have had to travel to other locations to access MRI facilities in each of the last five years is detailed in the table below:
| Year | Referrals |
| 2017/18 | 343 |
| 2018/19 | 452 |
| 2019/20 | 532 |
| 2020/21 | 736 |
| 2021/22 | 849 |
Source: Northern Health and Social Care Trust
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201076%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374994"}},{"id":"374993","reference":"AQW 1075/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-07","answerBy":"2022-06-22","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the impact on hospitality businesses as a result of the reintroduction of Pavement Café Licence fees by some councils; and (ii) to outline any support he is planning to provide hospitality businesses in these areas to continue trading and serving customers outside.","answerText":"From the Office of the Minister\n\nGordon Lyons MLA\n\nUse of outside spaces is not within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"From the Office of the Minister
Gordon Lyons MLA
Use of outside spaces is not within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201075%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374993"}},{"id":"374992","reference":"AQW 1074/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-07","answerBy":"2022-06-22","answered":"2022-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the impact, on artists and entertainment venues, of the reintroduction of entertainment licence fees by some councils; and (ii) to outline any support she is planning to provide artists and venues in these areas.","answerText":"In response to the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on the hospitality industry, last year I introduced a temporary nominal fee of £1 for renewal applications for all categories of entertainment licence for the duration of the 2021/2022 financial year.\n\nEarlier this year, following consultation with the councils, I decided to continue with this measure for the 2022/2023 financial year, again subject to review.","answerHtml":"In response to the impact of the COVID 19 pandemic on the hospitality industry, last year I introduced a temporary nominal fee of £1 for renewal applications for all categories of entertainment licence for the duration of the 2021/2022 financial year.
Earlier this year, following consultation with the councils, I decided to continue with this measure for the 2022/2023 financial year, again subject to review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201074%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374992"}},{"id":"374991","reference":"AQW 1073/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-07","answerBy":"2022-06-22","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions he has had with the MJM Group in relation to the development of the former Shackleton military base in Ballykelly.","answerText":"I met with MJM group on 12th January 2022. One of the topics discussed was their recent acquisition of the Shackleton site in Ballykelly and the plans for the site going forward. These plans were commercial in confidence.","answerHtml":"I met with MJM group on 12th January 2022. One of the topics discussed was their recent acquisition of the Shackleton site in Ballykelly and the plans for the site going forward. These plans were commercial in confidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201073%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374991"}},{"id":"374990","reference":"AQW 1072/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-07","answerBy":"2022-06-22","answered":"2022-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) what consideration he has given to including houses that have been vacated, by an unwell or infirm person being cared for in the home of a relative or friend, into the rating of empty homes exclusions; and (ii) how this can be brought into line with rating of empty homes exclusions for houses that have been vacated by a person who has gone into a registered care facility.","answerText":"As advised in AQW 30860/17-22, the rating of empty homes policy was introduced in October 2011 to assist with wider policy objectives related to housing affordability and supply, as well as to raise additional revenue. One of the exclusions to this policy is that the person who owns the empty property has their only or principal residence in a hospital, nursing home or residential care home. As previously advised this policy cannot be amended in the absence of an Executive.","answerHtml":"As advised in AQW 30860/17-22, the rating of empty homes policy was introduced in October 2011 to assist with wider policy objectives related to housing affordability and supply, as well as to raise additional revenue. One of the exclusions to this policy is that the person who owns the empty property has their only or principal residence in a hospital, nursing home or residential care home. As previously advised this policy cannot be amended in the absence of an Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201072%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374990"}},{"id":"374854","reference":"AQW 1011/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-06","answerBy":"2022-06-21","answered":"2022-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health which Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service stations have been assessed for their potential inclusion in the programme for firefighters to respond to cardiac arrests alongside the Ambulance Service.","answerText":"Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) intend to include all stations in the programme for firefighters to respond to cardiac arrests alongside the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, following appropriate engagement and agreement with Representative Bodies and delivery of training to NIFRS firefighters. Currently Carnlough Fire Station has been progressed.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) intend to include all stations in the programme for firefighters to respond to cardiac arrests alongside the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, following appropriate engagement and agreement with Representative Bodies and delivery of training to NIFRS firefighters. Currently Carnlough Fire Station has been progressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201011%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374854","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374854"}},{"id":"374853","reference":"AQW 1010/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-06","answerBy":"2022-06-21","answered":"2022-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 29259/17-22, to detail the efforts she is making to explore the installation of renewable energy generating technology on (i) school land; and (ii) school buildings, with a view to reducing energy costs long-term.","answerText":"The Department of Education is working with all Executive Departments to develop Climate Action Plans that will reduce energy consumption long-term. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is leading on the Northern Ireland Executive’s Green Growth Strategy, a multi-decade strategy that will balance climate, environment and economic issues in Northern Ireland.\n\nWhen the Climate Action Plans have been agreed, the Department, in partnership with the Education Authority, will put in place the necessary framework to allow these to be delivered in the schools estate.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education is working with all Executive Departments to develop Climate Action Plans that will reduce energy consumption long-term. The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs is leading on the Northern Ireland Executive’s Green Growth Strategy, a multi-decade strategy that will balance climate, environment and economic issues in Northern Ireland.
When the Climate Action Plans have been agreed, the Department, in partnership with the Education Authority, will put in place the necessary framework to allow these to be delivered in the schools estate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201010%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374853","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374853"}},{"id":"374852","reference":"AQW 1009/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-06","answerBy":"2022-06-21","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of (i) the current demand for independent support services such as foodbanks; and (ii) how this demand has changed over the previous three years.","answerText":"My current assessment of the demand of independent support services such as foodbanks is that whilst demand has fallen from the peak of the pandemic it is on the rise again as a result of the cost of living crisis\n\nThe Trussell Trust operates the largest network of foodbanks here and gathers and publishes statistics on usage. https://www.trusselltrust.org/news-and-blog/latest-stats/end-year-stats/\n\nThe figures show that in 2019/20 just over 45,000 food parcels were issued. This increased to almost 79,000 during 2020/21 and whilst usage in 2021/22 shows a decrease to just under 62,000 from they remain 36.5% higher than in 2019/20.","answerHtml":"My current assessment of the demand of independent support services such as foodbanks is that whilst demand has fallen from the peak of the pandemic it is on the rise again as a result of the cost of living crisis
The Trussell Trust operates the largest network of foodbanks here and gathers and publishes statistics on usage. https://www.trusselltrust.org/news-and-blog/latest-stats/end-year-stats/
The figures show that in 2019/20 just over 45,000 food parcels were issued. This increased to almost 79,000 during 2020/21 and whilst usage in 2021/22 shows a decrease to just under 62,000 from they remain 36.5% higher than in 2019/20.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201009%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374852","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374852"}},{"id":"374851","reference":"AQW 1008/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-06","answerBy":"2022-06-21","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the efforts she is making to explore the installation of renewable energy-generating technology on (i) social housing; and (ii) associated land, with a view to reducing energy costs long-term.","answerText":"The Housing Executive is currently investigating a range of renewable energy options to provide more affordable energy services to tenants. These include ground source and air source heat pump systems, and geothermal energy production and heat storage.\n\nIn its role as the Home Energy Conservation Authority the Housing Executive has engaged with power network providers, the Utility Regulator and the Department for the Economy about how to best develop technical options suitable for both Housing Executive and privately owned homes.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive is currently investigating a range of renewable energy options to provide more affordable energy services to tenants. These include ground source and air source heat pump systems, and geothermal energy production and heat storage.
In its role as the Home Energy Conservation Authority the Housing Executive has engaged with power network providers, the Utility Regulator and the Department for the Economy about how to best develop technical options suitable for both Housing Executive and privately owned homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201008%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374851"}},{"id":"374850","reference":"AQW 1007/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-06","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether Cross-Border Elective Healthcare will be extended beyond the current 30 June 2022 deadline; and (ii) what percentage of the cost of treatment will be reimbursed to the patient.","answerText":"You will be aware that in June 2021, I announced a new Cross-Border Healthcare Scheme (ROI Reimbursement Scheme) for a 12 month period from 30th June 2021 as the Cross Border Healthcare Directive no longer applies to the UK. This initiative, part of the Elective Care Framework, is aimed at reducing Northern Ireland waiting lists.\n\nMy officials are preparing a paper for me to consider options for the end of the current 12 month scheme.\n\nThe Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme allows patients to seek and pay for routinely commissioned treatment in the private sector. The reimbursement of costs is not based on a percentage of the actual payment made by the applicant to the private provider. The applicant can have the costs, up to the cost of the treatment to the HSC in Northern Ireland, reimbursed.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that in June 2021, I announced a new Cross-Border Healthcare Scheme (ROI Reimbursement Scheme) for a 12 month period from 30th June 2021 as the Cross Border Healthcare Directive no longer applies to the UK. This initiative, part of the Elective Care Framework, is aimed at reducing Northern Ireland waiting lists.
My officials are preparing a paper for me to consider options for the end of the current 12 month scheme.
The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme allows patients to seek and pay for routinely commissioned treatment in the private sector. The reimbursement of costs is not based on a percentage of the actual payment made by the applicant to the private provider. The applicant can have the costs, up to the cost of the treatment to the HSC in Northern Ireland, reimbursed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201007%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374850"}},{"id":"374722","reference":"AQW 924/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-01","answerBy":"2022-06-20","answered":"2022-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any work she is doing to collect data on people accessing foodbanks and other support services provided by the community and voluntary sector, to better inform the policies of her Department and other Executive departments.","answerText":"Officials monitor available Trussell Trust statistics on the numbers accessing their services here alongside statistics produced in the Family Resources Survey on food security.\n\nWhere there is a funding relationship between my Department and the Voluntary and Community Sector my officials gather data to monitor numbers supported, progress, success and value for money to inform future funding decisions and opportunities.","answerHtml":"Officials monitor available Trussell Trust statistics on the numbers accessing their services here alongside statistics produced in the Family Resources Survey on food security.
Where there is a funding relationship between my Department and the Voluntary and Community Sector my officials gather data to monitor numbers supported, progress, success and value for money to inform future funding decisions and opportunities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20924%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374722"}},{"id":"374711","reference":"AQW 913/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-01","answerBy":"2022-06-20","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the process by which the economic factors of (i) skills gaps; and (ii) staff shortages are actioned into policies by his Department.","answerText":"The new Skills Strategy, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’, was published in March 2022. It is built around three major policy objectives which aim to boost the supply of skills that will be required to support our economic ambitions over the next decade.\n\nCentral to the Strategy’s development is the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer, which details the imbalance between the supply and demand for skills under a high-economic growth scenario. It also highlights the oversupply of people entering the labour market with low or no skills, who consequently face an insecure future in a rapidly changing labour market. With this in mind, ‘Addressing skills imbalances, driving economic growth’ has been established as the Strategy’s overarching policy objective.\n\nThe Barometer is updated every two years by the Ulster University’s Economic Policy Centre and provides an evolving evidence base that identifies which sectors are growing and where demand for skills will arise. This evidence will continue be fed into the work of the nine projects which have been designated to deliver the Strategy’s 49 recommendations, and to help inform how they will address the skills challenges over the ten year life of the Strategy.\n\nThe Strategy was developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders from business, trade unions, education institutions, the community and voluntary sector and key government departments (Education and Communities). This collaboration will continue as the Strategy work progresses, including through the Northern Ireland Skills Council and engagement with stakeholder groups relevant to each project. Their involvement will be key to ensuring the Strategy is keeps pace with changes in the labour market.\n\nThe key strategic priorities to be addressed through the Strategy are:\n\naddressing the prevalence of low or no skilled individuals in our labour force, where a refreshed approach to lifelong learning will be essential;\n\nimproving the supply of advanced digital skills (related to cybersecurity, software engineering and computer science) into our economy. There is evidence that undersupply is already constraining business development in key sectors of our economy; and\n\nimproving the supply of mid-level professional and technical skills in our workforce, from those leaving education for the first time and through adult learning provision.\n\nThrough this continued collaborative approach, the Department aims to deliver on these priorities to help ensure the skills gaps and shortages are addressed and the Strategy’s objectives achieved.","answerHtml":"The new Skills Strategy, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’, was published in March 2022. It is built around three major policy objectives which aim to boost the supply of skills that will be required to support our economic ambitions over the next decade.
Central to the Strategy’s development is the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer, which details the imbalance between the supply and demand for skills under a high-economic growth scenario. It also highlights the oversupply of people entering the labour market with low or no skills, who consequently face an insecure future in a rapidly changing labour market. With this in mind, ‘Addressing skills imbalances, driving economic growth’ has been established as the Strategy’s overarching policy objective.
The Barometer is updated every two years by the Ulster University’s Economic Policy Centre and provides an evolving evidence base that identifies which sectors are growing and where demand for skills will arise. This evidence will continue be fed into the work of the nine projects which have been designated to deliver the Strategy’s 49 recommendations, and to help inform how they will address the skills challenges over the ten year life of the Strategy.
The Strategy was developed through extensive consultation with stakeholders from business, trade unions, education institutions, the community and voluntary sector and key government departments (Education and Communities). This collaboration will continue as the Strategy work progresses, including through the Northern Ireland Skills Council and engagement with stakeholder groups relevant to each project. Their involvement will be key to ensuring the Strategy is keeps pace with changes in the labour market.
The key strategic priorities to be addressed through the Strategy are:
addressing the prevalence of low or no skilled individuals in our labour force, where a refreshed approach to lifelong learning will be essential;
improving the supply of advanced digital skills (related to cybersecurity, software engineering and computer science) into our economy. There is evidence that undersupply is already constraining business development in key sectors of our economy; and
improving the supply of mid-level professional and technical skills in our workforce, from those leaving education for the first time and through adult learning provision.
Through this continued collaborative approach, the Department aims to deliver on these priorities to help ensure the skills gaps and shortages are addressed and the Strategy’s objectives achieved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20913%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374711"}},{"id":"374710","reference":"AQW 912/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-01","answerBy":"2022-06-20","answered":"2022-08-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the establishment of a cross-departmental steering group, chaired by her Department, to develop and deliver actions to reduce fuel poverty; and (ii) which organisations and bodies (a) have been engaged to date; and (b) will be engaged with, in this process.","answerText":"My Department continues to have engagement with the Utility Regulator, Consumer Council and other stakeholders in relation to increased energy costs and wider issues relating to fuel poverty. These include exploring further options and actions to mitigate the problems being faced","answerHtml":"My Department continues to have engagement with the Utility Regulator, Consumer Council and other stakeholders in relation to increased energy costs and wider issues relating to fuel poverty. These include exploring further options and actions to mitigate the problems being faced
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20912%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374710"}},{"id":"374709","reference":"AQW 911/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-01","answerBy":"2022-06-20","answered":"2022-06-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health i) for his assessment of the current level of eating disorder training among health professionals; and (ii) what steps he is taking to increase training.","answerText":"Training on eating disorders is delivered through a range of mechanisms. Staff within Adult Eating Disorder Service (AEDS) work as part of a regional network through which experience, learning and evidenced based management is shared for learning and training purposes. Staff working within the AEDS are encouraged and facilitated to attend training delivered by providers such as the HSC Clinical Education Centre and the Eating Disorder Youth Service – scenario based teaching and meal supervision training.\n\nCAMHS clinicians have developed core competencies and skills through specialist training in eating disorders such as the Eating Disorder practitioner course, Body Image work, CBT-E and family based interventions in keeping with NICE core interventions and Junior MARSIPAN guidelines. There is ongoing staff awareness training in house completed by Eating Disorder Practitioners and more recently, voluntary agencies such as BEAT have delivered training for both carers and professionals.\n\nEach Trust has developed its own training and awareness approach for staff working outside of the specialism. The range of options is too extensive to list but the most commonly used approaches are: the use of a course provided by the Clinical Education Centre; the provision of modules by Recovery Colleges; and training of medical students.\n\nA number of actions within the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 are focused on addressing issues around skills and training. Action 32 of the Strategy, one of 4 enabling actions which has received funding in 2021/22, commits to a comprehensive workforce review, considering existing workforce need, training and development of new workforce. This work is already underway.\n\nAction 29 also commits to provide further investment so that eating disorder services can achieve optimum staffing levels and skill mix to deliver effective care across the pathways. A business case for regional eating disorder services is currently being developed.","answerHtml":"Training on eating disorders is delivered through a range of mechanisms. Staff within Adult Eating Disorder Service (AEDS) work as part of a regional network through which experience, learning and evidenced based management is shared for learning and training purposes. Staff working within the AEDS are encouraged and facilitated to attend training delivered by providers such as the HSC Clinical Education Centre and the Eating Disorder Youth Service – scenario based teaching and meal supervision training.
CAMHS clinicians have developed core competencies and skills through specialist training in eating disorders such as the Eating Disorder practitioner course, Body Image work, CBT-E and family based interventions in keeping with NICE core interventions and Junior MARSIPAN guidelines. There is ongoing staff awareness training in house completed by Eating Disorder Practitioners and more recently, voluntary agencies such as BEAT have delivered training for both carers and professionals.
Each Trust has developed its own training and awareness approach for staff working outside of the specialism. The range of options is too extensive to list but the most commonly used approaches are: the use of a course provided by the Clinical Education Centre; the provision of modules by Recovery Colleges; and training of medical students.
A number of actions within the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 are focused on addressing issues around skills and training. Action 32 of the Strategy, one of 4 enabling actions which has received funding in 2021/22, commits to a comprehensive workforce review, considering existing workforce need, training and development of new workforce. This work is already underway.
Action 29 also commits to provide further investment so that eating disorder services can achieve optimum staffing levels and skill mix to deliver effective care across the pathways. A business case for regional eating disorder services is currently being developed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20911%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374709"}},{"id":"374708","reference":"AQW 910/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-06-01","answerBy":"2022-06-20","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people diagnosed with an eating disorder, broken down by constituency, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The number of referrals accepted to adults eating disorder services and to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) across Northern Ireland for the previous five years are presented in Table 1.\n\nThis information is not available by constituency and to do so would be at a disproportionate cost; therefore, the figures have been provided at Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust level.\n\nTable 1: Number of referrals accepted to adults eating disorder services and CAMHS by HSC Trust (2017/18 – 2021/22)\n\nHSC Trust\tYear ending 31 March\n2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\t2022\nBelfast*\t229\t207\t223\t222\t235\nNorthern**\t153\t146\t165\t144\t167\nSouthern\t192\t169\t182\t193\t261\nWestern\t188\t169\t171\t170\t183\nNorthern Ireland\t762\t691\t741\t729\t846\n\nSource: Monthly Non Inpatient Mental Health Returns and Monthly CAMHS MDS Returns from HSC Trusts, SPPG.\n\n*The Belfast HSC Trust provides an eating disorder service for residents of the South Eastern HSC Trust.\n\n**Proxy figures for 2021 and 2022 have been provided for the Northern HSC Trust due to limitations in data availability as a result of ongoing Information System migration.\n\nNote 1: The figures provided are in relation to referrals, not 'people'; therefore, it is possible one individual was referred multiple times.\n\nNote 2: It is not possible to disaggregate referrals received for eating disorder services in children as this is through a single point of entry for all CAMHS Services.","answerHtml":"The number of referrals accepted to adults eating disorder services and to Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) across Northern Ireland for the previous five years are presented in Table 1.
This information is not available by constituency and to do so would be at a disproportionate cost; therefore, the figures have been provided at Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust level.
Table 1: Number of referrals accepted to adults eating disorder services and CAMHS by HSC Trust (2017/18 – 2021/22)
| HSC Trust | Year ending 31 March | ||||
| 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | 2022 | |
| Belfast* | 229 | 207 | 223 | 222 | 235 |
| Northern** | 153 | 146 | 165 | 144 | 167 |
| Southern | 192 | 169 | 182 | 193 | 261 |
| Western | 188 | 169 | 171 | 170 | 183 |
| Northern Ireland | 762 | 691 | 741 | 729 | 846 |
Source: Monthly Non Inpatient Mental Health Returns and Monthly CAMHS MDS Returns from HSC Trusts, SPPG.
*The Belfast HSC Trust provides an eating disorder service for residents of the South Eastern HSC Trust.
**Proxy figures for 2021 and 2022 have been provided for the Northern HSC Trust due to limitations in data availability as a result of ongoing Information System migration.
Note 1: The figures provided are in relation to referrals, not 'people'; therefore, it is possible one individual was referred multiple times.
Note 2: It is not possible to disaggregate referrals received for eating disorder services in children as this is through a single point of entry for all CAMHS Services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20910%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374708"}},{"id":"374544","reference":"AQW 839/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-31","answerBy":"2022-06-17","answered":"2022-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the current system of NHS dentistry funding; and (ii) for an update on efforts being made to reform NHS dentistry funding to protect frontline services and provision of dentistry.","answerText":"I am pleased to have been able to commit record levels of investment into General Dental Services (GDS) in recent years.\n\nTo help sustain GDS during the Covid-19 pandemic, my Department has provided £76m in financial support to independent General Dental Practitioners over the last 2 years.\n\nFurther funding has been committed for the first half of 2022/23 to support dental practices, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the Rebuilding Support Scheme, to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing. This investment has been supplemented by an additional £6.5m made available to practices via Revenue Grant Schemes in 2020/21 and 2021/22.\n\nIn addition to this, for the last 5 years, the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration pay uplift recommendations have been implemented in full, including a 3% uplift in 2021/22, representing a total pay uplift of 11.24% since 2017.\n\nMy Department is committed to working with the British Dental Association and other organisations to develop a new GDS contract that will help build a sustainable, financially viable future for GDS.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to have been able to commit record levels of investment into General Dental Services (GDS) in recent years.
To help sustain GDS during the Covid-19 pandemic, my Department has provided £76m in financial support to independent General Dental Practitioners over the last 2 years.
Further funding has been committed for the first half of 2022/23 to support dental practices, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the Rebuilding Support Scheme, to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing. This investment has been supplemented by an additional £6.5m made available to practices via Revenue Grant Schemes in 2020/21 and 2021/22.
In addition to this, for the last 5 years, the Review Body on Doctors’ and Dentists’ Remuneration pay uplift recommendations have been implemented in full, including a 3% uplift in 2021/22, representing a total pay uplift of 11.24% since 2017.
My Department is committed to working with the British Dental Association and other organisations to develop a new GDS contract that will help build a sustainable, financially viable future for GDS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20839%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374544"}},{"id":"374543","reference":"AQW 838/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-31","answerBy":"2022-06-17","answered":"2022-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the benefits of animal assisted therapy; and (ii) to detail the current prevalence of this therapy in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Animal assisted therapy is considered as an innovative and effective intervention. It has shown that the interaction with animals can improve social behaviours and communication and can benefit service users for whom the more traditional forms of therapy are not appropriate or do not work.\n\nAnimal assisted services are offered in a number of facilities throughout Northern Ireland to assist children and adults in improving their mental health, those who suffer from a range of conditions including autistic spectrum disorder, attachment, trauma issues, sensory processing and communication difficulties. The facilities include social farms, animal rehoming centres and equine assisted services facilities.\n\nReferrals have been supported through the Department of Health, Health and Social Care Trusts as well as Department of Education (as part of their Happy Healthy Minds Project). In addition the Victims and Survivors Service have provided equine therapy services to victims and survivors from Northern Ireland. There are also instances where an individual or family member will make a personal referral for such services.\n\nThe Department of Health are working closely with central government departments including DAERA, Education and Justice along with other organisations to further explore the benefits of this type of intervention. This partnership is part of an overarching plan for developing a new Equine Strategy for Northern Ireland with Health (equine assisted services) being one of the 3 key strands of work.\n\nA number of equine assisted service pilots have taken place for Trust staff to help assess the benefits of this type of intervention for the workforce who have been on the front line delivering services during Covid-19.","answerHtml":"Animal assisted therapy is considered as an innovative and effective intervention. It has shown that the interaction with animals can improve social behaviours and communication and can benefit service users for whom the more traditional forms of therapy are not appropriate or do not work.
Animal assisted services are offered in a number of facilities throughout Northern Ireland to assist children and adults in improving their mental health, those who suffer from a range of conditions including autistic spectrum disorder, attachment, trauma issues, sensory processing and communication difficulties. The facilities include social farms, animal rehoming centres and equine assisted services facilities.
Referrals have been supported through the Department of Health, Health and Social Care Trusts as well as Department of Education (as part of their Happy Healthy Minds Project). In addition the Victims and Survivors Service have provided equine therapy services to victims and survivors from Northern Ireland. There are also instances where an individual or family member will make a personal referral for such services.
The Department of Health are working closely with central government departments including DAERA, Education and Justice along with other organisations to further explore the benefits of this type of intervention. This partnership is part of an overarching plan for developing a new Equine Strategy for Northern Ireland with Health (equine assisted services) being one of the 3 key strands of work.
A number of equine assisted service pilots have taken place for Trust staff to help assess the benefits of this type of intervention for the workforce who have been on the front line delivering services during Covid-19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20838%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374543"}},{"id":"374542","reference":"AQW 837/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-31","answerBy":"2022-06-17","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 29639/17-22, to detail (i) the implications of the current migrant labour laws on the success of the potential Attract In/Attract Back programme; and (ii) what conversations he has had with the UK Government in relation to any changes to these laws that may be necessary to launch this programme.","answerText":"The Attract In/Attract back programme, currently under development by Invest NI, will take full account of the current immigration rules as set by the UK Government.\n\nWhile my offcials and I continue to engage with the UK Government on the immigration system there are no specific changes that are required to lauch the Attract In/Attract Back programme.","answerHtml":"The Attract In/Attract back programme, currently under development by Invest NI, will take full account of the current immigration rules as set by the UK Government.
While my offcials and I continue to engage with the UK Government on the immigration system there are no specific changes that are required to lauch the Attract In/Attract Back programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20837%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374542"}},{"id":"374541","reference":"AQW 836/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-31","answerBy":"2022-06-17","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the efforts, facilitated by Invest NI, to encourage investment in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Partnership Working & Delivery\n\nMore so than ever the importance of strong partnership working to encourage investment in the region, indigenous or international, cannot be understated. This includes Invest NI, Causeway Chamber, Council, University, Regional Colleges, and all other relevant stakeholders in the area.\n\nInvest NI’s North West Regional Office has been actively working with the key economic development stakeholders in the area. An Economic Advisory Group has been set up as an action from the Community Plan to develop and deliver strategic projects through a collaborative approach. Operationally, a partnership plan has been agreed, with monthly partnership meetings to steer delivery.\n\nKey areas of focus include post COVID recovery/rebuild, Entrepreneurship, New Exporters, Innovation, & Skills.\n\nA specific partnership initiative to encourage local businesses to consider exporting for the first time was recently completed; locally branded “Causeway Exporters” and under the theme ‘The Export Journey’, six monthly webinars were delivered between September ’21 & February ’22 with support from Invest NI’s Export Division. Causeway Chamber of Commerce led on this initiative. Other partners included Causeway & Roe Valley Enterprise Agencies, Ulster University, both Regional Colleges, and the local Council. In addition to the monthly webinars, 1:1 follow on support was provided to 52 local businesses.\n\nSimilar partnership initiatives are in progress in the area to encourage higher levels of innovation amongst local businesses as well as the promotion of self-employment as a career option.\n\nGrowth Deal\n\nAnnounced in July 2019 by the government, £300m ‘Growth Deal’ funding will be shared across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The government outlined that the funding for Northern Ireland would support ‘Growth Deals’ in Mid-South West Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nCirca £36m has been made available from central government for the CC&GC area for projects focused on Innovation, with match funding of same expected from NI Executive for enabling infrastructure projects. Invest NI has put dedicated resource in place to support the Council who are overseeing the delivery of the ‘Causeway Deal’.\n\nFollowing extensive consultation, a short list of investment projects has recently been completed by the Council; of particular interest to Invest NI are; the proposed Centre for Drug Discovery at the Ulster University campus; Innovation Hub proposal at the designated Enterprise Zone; as well as the NW Regional Colleges proposed ‘Foodovation’ proposal at their Limavady campus.\n\nInvestment in the last five years\n\nInvest NI provided support to businesses, which will lead to the creation of 793 new jobs within East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency. Jobs arising from these projects being created over the next 3 to 5 years, and will result in an increase in annual salaries of £17.72m.\n\nInvest NI supported these businesses with £6.52m of employment-related assistance which will leverage a total investment of £45.32m. In addition, Invest NI provided 490 offers of other developmental assistance to businesses, totalling £7.31m, to accelerate their further growth including financial assistance for research and development, skills development and to support the promotion of products and services made in the East Londonderry constituency in overseas markets.","answerHtml":"Partnership Working & Delivery
More so than ever the importance of strong partnership working to encourage investment in the region, indigenous or international, cannot be understated. This includes Invest NI, Causeway Chamber, Council, University, Regional Colleges, and all other relevant stakeholders in the area.
Invest NI’s North West Regional Office has been actively working with the key economic development stakeholders in the area. An Economic Advisory Group has been set up as an action from the Community Plan to develop and deliver strategic projects through a collaborative approach. Operationally, a partnership plan has been agreed, with monthly partnership meetings to steer delivery.
Key areas of focus include post COVID recovery/rebuild, Entrepreneurship, New Exporters, Innovation, & Skills.
A specific partnership initiative to encourage local businesses to consider exporting for the first time was recently completed; locally branded “Causeway Exporters” and under the theme ‘The Export Journey’, six monthly webinars were delivered between September ’21 & February ’22 with support from Invest NI’s Export Division. Causeway Chamber of Commerce led on this initiative. Other partners included Causeway & Roe Valley Enterprise Agencies, Ulster University, both Regional Colleges, and the local Council. In addition to the monthly webinars, 1:1 follow on support was provided to 52 local businesses.
Similar partnership initiatives are in progress in the area to encourage higher levels of innovation amongst local businesses as well as the promotion of self-employment as a career option.
Growth Deal
Announced in July 2019 by the government, £300m ‘Growth Deal’ funding will be shared across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. The government outlined that the funding for Northern Ireland would support ‘Growth Deals’ in Mid-South West Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
Circa £36m has been made available from central government for the CC&GC area for projects focused on Innovation, with match funding of same expected from NI Executive for enabling infrastructure projects. Invest NI has put dedicated resource in place to support the Council who are overseeing the delivery of the ‘Causeway Deal’.
Following extensive consultation, a short list of investment projects has recently been completed by the Council; of particular interest to Invest NI are; the proposed Centre for Drug Discovery at the Ulster University campus; Innovation Hub proposal at the designated Enterprise Zone; as well as the NW Regional Colleges proposed ‘Foodovation’ proposal at their Limavady campus.
Investment in the last five years
Invest NI provided support to businesses, which will lead to the creation of 793 new jobs within East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency. Jobs arising from these projects being created over the next 3 to 5 years, and will result in an increase in annual salaries of £17.72m.
Invest NI supported these businesses with £6.52m of employment-related assistance which will leverage a total investment of £45.32m. In addition, Invest NI provided 490 offers of other developmental assistance to businesses, totalling £7.31m, to accelerate their further growth including financial assistance for research and development, skills development and to support the promotion of products and services made in the East Londonderry constituency in overseas markets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20836%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374541","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374541"}},{"id":"374540","reference":"AQW 835/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-31","answerBy":"2022-06-17","answered":"2022-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of Education Welfare Officers employed in each constituency, in each of the last five years","answerText":"The Education Welfare Service does not organise its regional service around parliamentary boundaries rather through main offices based in Armagh, Ballymena, Belfast, Dundonald and Omagh.\n\nThe staffing complement for years 18-22 for Education Welfare Officers are as follows:\n\nYear\tArmagh\noffice\tBallymena\noffice\tBelfast\noffice\tDundonald\noffice\tOmagh office\tTotal\nSept 18\t30\t28\t25\t22\t23\t128\nAug 19\t31\t30\t26\t23\t22\t132\nSept 20\t30\t25\t28\t23\t22\t128\nSept 21\t29\t31\t28\t26\t22\t136\nMarch 22\t31\t32\t26\t24\t22\t135","answerHtml":"The Education Welfare Service does not organise its regional service around parliamentary boundaries rather through main offices based in Armagh, Ballymena, Belfast, Dundonald and Omagh.
The staffing complement for years 18-22 for Education Welfare Officers are as follows:
| Year | Armagh office | Ballymena office | Belfast office | Dundonald office | Omagh office | Total |
| Sept 18 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 22 | 23 | 128 |
| Aug 19 | 31 | 30 | 26 | 23 | 22 | 132 |
| Sept 20 | 30 | 25 | 28 | 23 | 22 | 128 |
| Sept 21 | 29 | 31 | 28 | 26 | 22 | 136 |
| March 22 | 31 | 32 | 26 | 24 | 22 | 135 |
It is not possible for Northern Ireland to join the Warm Homes Discount Scheme as the underpinning legislation makes the scheme specific to GB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20763%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374416","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374416"}},{"id":"374415","reference":"AQW 762/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-30","answerBy":"2022-06-16","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline any funding that exists for community and voluntary groups to memorialise unmarked graves or former institutional settings where many people lived and died.","answerText":"My department does not provide any specific funding for this purpose.","answerHtml":"My department does not provide any specific funding for this purpose.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20762%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374415","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374415"}},{"id":"374414","reference":"AQW 761/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-30","answerBy":"2022-06-16","answered":"2022-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what provisions are available to support children and their families, assessed with special educational needs, when the Special Educational Needs Coordinator in the school is absent for a lengthy period of time.","answerText":"The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) is responsible for many day to day operational duties for special educational needs (SEN) within a school. All relevant staff will also be aware of the provision in place for those pupils with assessed SEN.\n\nIn the absence of a SENCo, their duties will need to be delegated, and as with all staff absences, it is up the school Principal to designate a staff member to carry out SENCO duties, or assume the role themselves to ensure provision for children with SEN continues.","answerHtml":"The Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCo) is responsible for many day to day operational duties for special educational needs (SEN) within a school. All relevant staff will also be aware of the provision in place for those pupils with assessed SEN.
In the absence of a SENCo, their duties will need to be delegated, and as with all staff absences, it is up the school Principal to designate a staff member to carry out SENCO duties, or assume the role themselves to ensure provision for children with SEN continues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20761%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374414","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374414"}},{"id":"374413","reference":"AQW 760/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-30","answerBy":"2022-06-16","answered":"2022-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 30249/17-22, to detail the simplification that has been made to regional Direct Payments guidance.","answerText":"Direct Payments are made to a service user or carer following an assessment of their needs, in order to achieve an agreed outcome. It should be noted that this principle remains unchanged.\n\nIn response to requests from carers, Northern Ireland Guidance for People Receiving Direct Payments was published on 3 August 2020. The guidance encourages Health and Social Care Trusts to apply flexibilities in the use of Direct Payments, in order to better meet the needs of service users and carers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance can be accessed at: www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/guidance-direct-payments\n\nHSC Trusts are expected to support those people in receipt of Direct Payments by applying a flexible approach to meeting their needs and agreed outcomes, with the underpinning guiding principle being to ensure individuals safely receive the care and support they require.\n\nThe flexibilities and simplification included in the guidance include paying a close family member where care has broken down, use of unspent funds and paying for PPE if required.\n\nUsually, a close family member who lives in the same household is not permitted by current guidance to receive payment, however given the exceptional circumstances arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, a short-term, temporary arrangement may be considered in discussion with the named worker and with prior, written permission from the local Trust.\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts will adopt this more flexible approach to the use of Direct Payments until 30 September 2022.","answerHtml":"Direct Payments are made to a service user or carer following an assessment of their needs, in order to achieve an agreed outcome. It should be noted that this principle remains unchanged.
In response to requests from carers, Northern Ireland Guidance for People Receiving Direct Payments was published on 3 August 2020. The guidance encourages Health and Social Care Trusts to apply flexibilities in the use of Direct Payments, in order to better meet the needs of service users and carers during the COVID-19 pandemic. The guidance can be accessed at: www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/guidance-direct-payments
HSC Trusts are expected to support those people in receipt of Direct Payments by applying a flexible approach to meeting their needs and agreed outcomes, with the underpinning guiding principle being to ensure individuals safely receive the care and support they require.
The flexibilities and simplification included in the guidance include paying a close family member where care has broken down, use of unspent funds and paying for PPE if required.
Usually, a close family member who lives in the same household is not permitted by current guidance to receive payment, however given the exceptional circumstances arising from the COVID-19 pandemic, a short-term, temporary arrangement may be considered in discussion with the named worker and with prior, written permission from the local Trust.
Health and Social Care Trusts will adopt this more flexible approach to the use of Direct Payments until 30 September 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20760%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374413","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374413"}},{"id":"374412","reference":"AQW 759/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-30","answerBy":"2022-06-16","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail what forms of redress are available for patients whose surgeries, or other medical appointments, for serious illness were cancelled or delayed due to the pandemic and led to worse health outcomes.","answerText":"There is no specific form of redress in relation to patients whose surgeries, or other medical appointments, for serious illness were cancelled or delayed due to the pandemic and led to worse health outcomes.\n\nGenerally, redress is available where:\n\nnegligence is admitted or proven and compensation is paid;\n\nthe Public Services Ombudsman finds that there has been maladministration or service failure in the case of a complainant; or\n\na public inquiry recommends that a redress scheme should be set up, and the relevant authority accepts that recommendation.\n\nWhilst I fully accept that the pandemic has had a devastating impact on health and social care capacity, access to surgery and medical appointments continued to be available and prioritised for the most seriously ill people. Unfortunately a number of theatre lists had to be postponed by Trusts at very short notice to allow staff to treat those seriously ill with COVID-19, and patients affected were rebooked for treatment at the earliest opportunity. Those circumstances, whilst highly regrettable, were unavoidable in the context of the pandemic. As Health Minister I am committed to increasing capacity to reduce waiting times within the budget available to my Department. As recently as last month I announced a further £46m for immediate capacity boosting in year and £16m in recurrent funding to reduce waits across elective care.","answerHtml":"There is no specific form of redress in relation to patients whose surgeries, or other medical appointments, for serious illness were cancelled or delayed due to the pandemic and led to worse health outcomes.
Generally, redress is available where:
negligence is admitted or proven and compensation is paid;
the Public Services Ombudsman finds that there has been maladministration or service failure in the case of a complainant; or
a public inquiry recommends that a redress scheme should be set up, and the relevant authority accepts that recommendation.
Whilst I fully accept that the pandemic has had a devastating impact on health and social care capacity, access to surgery and medical appointments continued to be available and prioritised for the most seriously ill people. Unfortunately a number of theatre lists had to be postponed by Trusts at very short notice to allow staff to treat those seriously ill with COVID-19, and patients affected were rebooked for treatment at the earliest opportunity. Those circumstances, whilst highly regrettable, were unavoidable in the context of the pandemic. As Health Minister I am committed to increasing capacity to reduce waiting times within the budget available to my Department. As recently as last month I announced a further £46m for immediate capacity boosting in year and £16m in recurrent funding to reduce waits across elective care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20759%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374412","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374412"}},{"id":"374301","reference":"AQW 684/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the steps she has taken to alleviate financial stress on the estimated 50,000 people of pensionable age living in relative poverty; and (ii) the efforts she has made to highlight the financial support available for older people in financial difficulties who are eligible but unaware of the support available.","answerText":"My Department provides the Make the Call Service which aims to ensure that all individuals and their families are receiving the benefits, supports and services they are entitled to claim. This Service offers free and confidential needs assessments for individuals to check for entitlement to social security benefits, additional supports and services.\n\nMake the Call also has an extensive range of partnerships with community-based organisations and other departments which extends its reach and accessibility. Sitting alongside this partnership offer, the Make the Call community-based Outreach Officers work with local community, charitable and voluntary groups, to raise awareness of potential benefit entitlements and provide practical help in accessing them.\n\nIn addition, my Department continues to work collaboratively with Age NI and other trusted key stakeholders in the community to raise awareness and seek to increase Pension Credit uptake.","answerHtml":"My Department provides the Make the Call Service which aims to ensure that all individuals and their families are receiving the benefits, supports and services they are entitled to claim. This Service offers free and confidential needs assessments for individuals to check for entitlement to social security benefits, additional supports and services.
Make the Call also has an extensive range of partnerships with community-based organisations and other departments which extends its reach and accessibility. Sitting alongside this partnership offer, the Make the Call community-based Outreach Officers work with local community, charitable and voluntary groups, to raise awareness of potential benefit entitlements and provide practical help in accessing them.
In addition, my Department continues to work collaboratively with Age NI and other trusted key stakeholders in the community to raise awareness and seek to increase Pension Credit uptake.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20684%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374301","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374301"}},{"id":"374300","reference":"AQW 683/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what conversations she has had with football clubs and bodies regarding Northern Ireland’s expected joint hosting of Euro 2028; and (ii) for her assessment of the impact that the delay in the funding for the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer will have on Northern Ireland's ability to host matches, training camps and training matches.","answerText":"My Department along with other Government partners are continuing to engage with the football associations, including the IFA, on the joint ‘Expression of Interest’ to host the UEFA European Championship Finals in 2028.\n\nIn terms of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, the challenges created by not having a functioning Executive or agreed Executive budget means I cannot bring new proposals for endorsement and agreement as is required.\n\nI met with representatives from IFA and NIFL, and have agreed to work with them to progress this project to application stage.\n\nI remain committed to moving this Programme forward and will continue to work to progress it.","answerHtml":"My Department along with other Government partners are continuing to engage with the football associations, including the IFA, on the joint ‘Expression of Interest’ to host the UEFA European Championship Finals in 2028.
In terms of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, the challenges created by not having a functioning Executive or agreed Executive budget means I cannot bring new proposals for endorsement and agreement as is required.
I met with representatives from IFA and NIFL, and have agreed to work with them to progress this project to application stage.
I remain committed to moving this Programme forward and will continue to work to progress it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20683%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374300","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374300"}},{"id":"374289","reference":"AQW 672/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-08-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of units of social housing created in each constituency, in each of the last five years; (ii) the total number of social housing units in each constituency; and (iii) the actions she is taking to increase the number of social housing units in East Londonderry.","answerText":"In Table 1 below I have provided the details of new social housing starts for each of the last 5 years by parliamentary constituency.\n\nIn Table 2 below I have provided details of the current total number of units in Housing Executive stock, broken down by parliamentary constituency. Please note this does not include information for Housing Association stock.\n\nWithin the East Derry constituency there are currently 90 social units under construction. A further 25 units have been completed to date in the current programme year.\n\nA further 255 social housing units are programmed to start through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2022/23 – 2024/25 in the constituency.\n\nPlease note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.\n\nTable 1 Social housing starts by parliamentary constituency\n\nParliamentary Constituency\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\t2021/22\tTotals\nEast Antrim\t68\t44\t41\t4\t289\t446\nNorth Antrim\t188\t165\t12\t131\t42\t538\nSouth Antrim\t32\t56\t16\t127\t64\t295\nUpper Bann\t1\t17\t44\t34\t38\t134\nEast Belfast\t59\t127\t34\t69\t201\t490\nNorth Belfast\t217\t90\t148\t104\t128\t687\nSouth Belfast\t17\t92\t4\t49\t139\t301\nWest Belfast\t242\t146\t146\t663\t72\t1269\nNorth Down\t4\t47\t18\t4\t29\t102\nSouth Down\t125\t26\t9\t92\t33\t285\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t58\t73\t0\t29\t111\t271\nFoyle\t445\t584\t80\t309\t329\t1747\nLagan Valley\t105\t119\t20\t134\t12\t390\nEast Derry\t19\t13\t113\t51\t74\t270\nMid Ulster\t29\t12\t16\t19\t0\t76\nNewry & Armagh\t131\t71\t8\t347\t1\t558\nStrangford\t5\t88\t33\t50\t42\t218\nWest Tyrone\t14\t16\t19\t187\t109\t345\nTotals\t1759\t1786\t761\t2403\t1713\t8422\n\nTable 2: Housing Executive stock totals, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tUnits\nEast Antrim\t3,826\nNorth Antrim\t4,695\nSouth Antrim\t3,632\nUpper Bann\t5,028\nBelfast East\t5,369\nBelfast East/South*\t636\nBelfast North\t8,713\nBelfast West/North*\t337\nBelfast West\t8,879\nBelfast South\t4,501\nBelfast South/Strangford*\t76\nBelfast West/South*\t46\nNorth Down\t3,047\nSouth Down\t2,642\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t3,151\nFoyle\t6,507\nLagan Valley\t4,306\nEast Derry\t4,498\nMid Ulster\t2,598\nNewry & Armagh\t3,852\nStrangford\t3,994\nWest Tyrone\t3,764\nTotal\t84,097\n\n*in some locations Common Landlord Areas traverse Parliamentary Constituency boundaries","answerHtml":"In Table 1 below I have provided the details of new social housing starts for each of the last 5 years by parliamentary constituency.
In Table 2 below I have provided details of the current total number of units in Housing Executive stock, broken down by parliamentary constituency. Please note this does not include information for Housing Association stock.
Within the East Derry constituency there are currently 90 social units under construction. A further 25 units have been completed to date in the current programme year.
A further 255 social housing units are programmed to start through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2022/23 – 2024/25 in the constituency.
Please note that programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-Shelf properties.
Table 1 Social housing starts by parliamentary constituency
| Parliamentary Constituency | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 | Totals |
| East Antrim | 68 | 44 | 41 | 4 | 289 | 446 |
| North Antrim | 188 | 165 | 12 | 131 | 42 | 538 |
| South Antrim | 32 | 56 | 16 | 127 | 64 | 295 |
| Upper Bann | 1 | 17 | 44 | 34 | 38 | 134 |
| East Belfast | 59 | 127 | 34 | 69 | 201 | 490 |
| North Belfast | 217 | 90 | 148 | 104 | 128 | 687 |
| South Belfast | 17 | 92 | 4 | 49 | 139 | 301 |
| West Belfast | 242 | 146 | 146 | 663 | 72 | 1269 |
| North Down | 4 | 47 | 18 | 4 | 29 | 102 |
| South Down | 125 | 26 | 9 | 92 | 33 | 285 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 58 | 73 | 0 | 29 | 111 | 271 |
| Foyle | 445 | 584 | 80 | 309 | 329 | 1747 |
| Lagan Valley | 105 | 119 | 20 | 134 | 12 | 390 |
| East Derry | 19 | 13 | 113 | 51 | 74 | 270 |
| Mid Ulster | 29 | 12 | 16 | 19 | 0 | 76 |
| Newry & Armagh | 131 | 71 | 8 | 347 | 1 | 558 |
| Strangford | 5 | 88 | 33 | 50 | 42 | 218 |
| West Tyrone | 14 | 16 | 19 | 187 | 109 | 345 |
| Totals | 1759 | 1786 | 761 | 2403 | 1713 | 8422 |
Table 2: Housing Executive stock totals, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency
| Parliamentary Constituency | Units |
| East Antrim | 3,826 |
| North Antrim | 4,695 |
| South Antrim | 3,632 |
| Upper Bann | 5,028 |
| Belfast East | 5,369 |
| Belfast East/South* | 636 |
| Belfast North | 8,713 |
| Belfast West/North* | 337 |
| Belfast West | 8,879 |
| Belfast South | 4,501 |
| Belfast South/Strangford* | 76 |
| Belfast West/South* | 46 |
| North Down | 3,047 |
| South Down | 2,642 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 3,151 |
| Foyle | 6,507 |
| Lagan Valley | 4,306 |
| East Derry | 4,498 |
| Mid Ulster | 2,598 |
| Newry & Armagh | 3,852 |
| Strangford | 3,994 |
| West Tyrone | 3,764 |
| Total | 84,097 |
*in some locations Common Landlord Areas traverse Parliamentary Constituency boundaries
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20672%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374289"}},{"id":"374288","reference":"AQW 671/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the steps she has taken to ensure greater security for private tenants in rental contracts; and (ii) for her assessment of the pressures on the private rental market in areas where there is a large tourism market, such as parts of East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Private Tenancies Act 2022 will make the private rented sector a safer and more secure housing option for people living in it. The Act increases the Notice to Quit (NTQ) periods Landlords must provide to tenants which will increase further in the longer term once regulations regarding exceptions have been considered.\n\nPolicy responsibility for short term tourist accommodation lies with the Department for Economy with holiday lets regulated by Tourism NI subject to licensing requirements. Housing need and demand models, across all tenures, take into account the demand for such accommodation.\n\nThe need for improved housing related data collection and analysis forms part of ongoing work on my Department’s Housing Supply Strategy. In this context, it is worth highlighting that the Housing Executive is already proposing to conduct research in the near future which will aim to assess effect of holiday homes and short term lets on the homes in the housing market.","answerHtml":"The Private Tenancies Act 2022 will make the private rented sector a safer and more secure housing option for people living in it. The Act increases the Notice to Quit (NTQ) periods Landlords must provide to tenants which will increase further in the longer term once regulations regarding exceptions have been considered.
Policy responsibility for short term tourist accommodation lies with the Department for Economy with holiday lets regulated by Tourism NI subject to licensing requirements. Housing need and demand models, across all tenures, take into account the demand for such accommodation.
The need for improved housing related data collection and analysis forms part of ongoing work on my Department’s Housing Supply Strategy. In this context, it is worth highlighting that the Housing Executive is already proposing to conduct research in the near future which will aim to assess effect of holiday homes and short term lets on the homes in the housing market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20671%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374288","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374288"}},{"id":"374287","reference":"AQW 670/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-27","answerBy":"2022-06-15","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to outline the current youth services available in East Londonderry; and (ii) to detail the amount spent by her Department on youth services, in each constituency, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Policy responsibility for Youth Services rests with the Department for Education. However, my Department currently funds a number of youth initiatives in East Derry. I have provided an update as below on youth services.\n\nThe Coleraine Education Community Project (CECP) is a schools based project that has been successfully operating across Coleraine for over ten years, which links nine schools that work within or have significant numbers of pupils from the two Neighbourhood Renewal Areas (NRAs) of Coleraine East (Ballysally and Millburn) and Coleraine West (The Heights and Killowen). This initiative was allocated £ 45,053.16 in the current financial year.\n\nThe second project is the Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project (BINP) which provides an effective nurturing service for families and individuals of all ages, with a cradle to grave approach of supportive developmental work. This project was allocated £159,613.28 in the current financial year.\n\nThe Dry Arch Children’s Centre – Enjoying, Learning and Achieving in Limavady provides a Youth Mentor/Family Support Worker for 25 hours per week to target children, families and young people at critical stages in their lives, so that support and interventions are available to those in danger of becoming involved in antisocial behaviour or are marginalised thus effecting their educational attainment.\n\nAdditionally in 2021/22 the Neighbourhood Renewal programme, awarded funding of £17,880 to Roe Valley Residents Association in Limavady to externally revamp the newly opened Youth Hub in the town centre.\n\nAs I explained earlier the provision of funding to youth services has a wider remit than my Department, but overall information pertaining to funding awarded can be accessed on the Government Funders Database which is accessible via the link below:\n\nhttps://govfunding.nics.gov.uk/","answerHtml":"Policy responsibility for Youth Services rests with the Department for Education. However, my Department currently funds a number of youth initiatives in East Derry. I have provided an update as below on youth services.
The Coleraine Education Community Project (CECP) is a schools based project that has been successfully operating across Coleraine for over ten years, which links nine schools that work within or have significant numbers of pupils from the two Neighbourhood Renewal Areas (NRAs) of Coleraine East (Ballysally and Millburn) and Coleraine West (The Heights and Killowen). This initiative was allocated £ 45,053.16 in the current financial year.
The second project is the Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project (BINP) which provides an effective nurturing service for families and individuals of all ages, with a cradle to grave approach of supportive developmental work. This project was allocated £159,613.28 in the current financial year.
The Dry Arch Children’s Centre – Enjoying, Learning and Achieving in Limavady provides a Youth Mentor/Family Support Worker for 25 hours per week to target children, families and young people at critical stages in their lives, so that support and interventions are available to those in danger of becoming involved in antisocial behaviour or are marginalised thus effecting their educational attainment.
Additionally in 2021/22 the Neighbourhood Renewal programme, awarded funding of £17,880 to Roe Valley Residents Association in Limavady to externally revamp the newly opened Youth Hub in the town centre.
As I explained earlier the provision of funding to youth services has a wider remit than my Department, but overall information pertaining to funding awarded can be accessed on the Government Funders Database which is accessible via the link below:
https://govfunding.nics.gov.uk/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20670%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374287","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374287"}},{"id":"374214","reference":"AQW 633/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of (a) paid; and (b) unpaid sports coaches; and (ii) the support that her Department provides to encourage new coaches, and to retain existing coaches, particularly those working with young people.","answerText":"My Department does not keep a record of the number of paid or unpaid sports coaches as the recruitment of sports coaches is a matter for Clubs, Sports Governing Bodies and Councils.\n\nSport NI provides support to the sector to encourage new coaches, and to retain existing coaches, including those who work with young people, through a number of programmes including the Club Environment Transition Programme, the Club Coach Developer Programme, the Performance Coach Developer programme, the annual SportMaker Awards and Sport NI Learning Provision. In addition, Tollymore National Outdoor Centre (TNOC) provides a range of courses for coaches in adventure sports and physical recreation.","answerHtml":"My Department does not keep a record of the number of paid or unpaid sports coaches as the recruitment of sports coaches is a matter for Clubs, Sports Governing Bodies and Councils.
Sport NI provides support to the sector to encourage new coaches, and to retain existing coaches, including those who work with young people, through a number of programmes including the Club Environment Transition Programme, the Club Coach Developer Programme, the Performance Coach Developer programme, the annual SportMaker Awards and Sport NI Learning Provision. In addition, Tollymore National Outdoor Centre (TNOC) provides a range of courses for coaches in adventure sports and physical recreation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20633%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374214"}},{"id":"374213","reference":"AQW 632/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps are being taken to increase fuel allowance rates for domiciliary care workers.","answerText":"In light of the recent significant increases in fuel costs, my Department, Employers and Trade Unions have been involved in national and local discussions regarding a potential review of the current Agenda for Change (AfC) Mileage Rates.\n\nThe national discussions have been led through the NHS Staff Council and have been exploring the options in relation to mileage reimbursement rates.\n\nUnfortunately it has not been possible to conclude a National agreement on an increase in fuel reimbursement rates.\n\nIn light of no nationally agreed position, temporary increases have been agreed in Scotland and Wales until the end of July and June respectively. At the time of those agreements, no decision could be made locally due to election period restrictions. My Department is, however, considering options for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In light of the recent significant increases in fuel costs, my Department, Employers and Trade Unions have been involved in national and local discussions regarding a potential review of the current Agenda for Change (AfC) Mileage Rates.
The national discussions have been led through the NHS Staff Council and have been exploring the options in relation to mileage reimbursement rates.
Unfortunately it has not been possible to conclude a National agreement on an increase in fuel reimbursement rates.
In light of no nationally agreed position, temporary increases have been agreed in Scotland and Wales until the end of July and June respectively. At the time of those agreements, no decision could be made locally due to election period restrictions. My Department is, however, considering options for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20632%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374213","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374213"}},{"id":"374212","reference":"AQW 631/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on action being taken to find tenants for Coleraine’s Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus.","answerText":"Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (CC&GBC) is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the designated area for the Pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine, called the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus (ALEC). My Department’s role is to ensure that the ALEC is developed by CC&GBC in a way which will attract capital intensive companies.\n\nAs of the end of May 2022 the following activity has been undertaken by CC&GBC to market the site:\n\nPromotion of the ALEC via a Development Brief to prospective businesses, investors, developers etc. A copy is available on the dedicated ALEC website: http://atlanticlinkcampus.com/wp-content/uploads/atlantic-link-developement-brief.pdf\n\nAnnual full-page advertisements in all regional and local newspapers (16 newspapers); and front cover page articles in both Agenda NI and Eolas.\n\nRegular monthly wide-spread mailshot of both new hard and soft copies of the ALEC Brochure and Development Brief to prospective investors regionally, nationally and internationally.\n\nExhibition stands at large scale digital focused conferences in Belfast and Dublin.\n\nALEC information events/roadshows in Belfast, Dublin and London.\n\nInvestigation of proposed Growth Deal opportunities.\n\nA new property agent has been appointed. They are currently preparing a strategy going forward.\n\nInvest NI has assisted with promotional events to potential investors at the British Embassy in Dublin and the Guildhall in London.\n\nInvest NI’s International Investment Division continue to facilitate introductions to relevant events, conferences, and contacts in GB, RoI, and the US.\n\nInvest NI also promote the Campus on the property section of its website.","answerHtml":"Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (CC&GBC) is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the designated area for the Pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine, called the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus (ALEC). My Department’s role is to ensure that the ALEC is developed by CC&GBC in a way which will attract capital intensive companies.
As of the end of May 2022 the following activity has been undertaken by CC&GBC to market the site:
Promotion of the ALEC via a Development Brief to prospective businesses, investors, developers etc. A copy is available on the dedicated ALEC website: http://atlanticlinkcampus.com/wp-content/uploads/atlantic-link-developement-brief.pdf
Annual full-page advertisements in all regional and local newspapers (16 newspapers); and front cover page articles in both Agenda NI and Eolas.
Regular monthly wide-spread mailshot of both new hard and soft copies of the ALEC Brochure and Development Brief to prospective investors regionally, nationally and internationally.
Exhibition stands at large scale digital focused conferences in Belfast and Dublin.
ALEC information events/roadshows in Belfast, Dublin and London.
Investigation of proposed Growth Deal opportunities.
A new property agent has been appointed. They are currently preparing a strategy going forward.
Invest NI has assisted with promotional events to potential investors at the British Embassy in Dublin and the Guildhall in London.
Invest NI’s International Investment Division continue to facilitate introductions to relevant events, conferences, and contacts in GB, RoI, and the US.
Invest NI also promote the Campus on the property section of its website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20631%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374212","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374212"}},{"id":"374211","reference":"AQW 630/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the process by which she determined the 28 schools that are to benefit from the Major Capital Works Programme.","answerText":"The eligibility and scoring criteria were set out in the Protocol which was published in advance of the call for Major Capital Works being launched.\n\nThe latest call closed on 14 January 2022 and by the closing date, thirty four school nominations were received. The nominated schools were assessed against the Gateway criteria in the Protocol and six schools which did not meet the eligibility criteria were subsequently ruled out during this assessment.\n\nOn 21 March, I was pleased to announce that all of the remaining 28 schools which had passed the eligibility assessment would be taken forward for major capital investment.","answerHtml":"The eligibility and scoring criteria were set out in the Protocol which was published in advance of the call for Major Capital Works being launched.
The latest call closed on 14 January 2022 and by the closing date, thirty four school nominations were received. The nominated schools were assessed against the Gateway criteria in the Protocol and six schools which did not meet the eligibility criteria were subsequently ruled out during this assessment.
On 21 March, I was pleased to announce that all of the remaining 28 schools which had passed the eligibility assessment would be taken forward for major capital investment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20630%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374211"}},{"id":"374210","reference":"AQW 629/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-26","answerBy":"2022-06-14","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps have been taken to increase the number and capacity of crematoriums in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"It is a matter for a councils to decide whether they wish to provide this service.","answerHtml":"It is a matter for a councils to decide whether they wish to provide this service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20629%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374210"}},{"id":"374111","reference":"AQW 556/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) his plans to make better use of the skills and experience of the community and voluntary sector to deliver health and social care; and (ii) how he will support this sector to do so.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20556%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374111"}},{"id":"374110","reference":"AQW 555/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of healthy eating habits in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail any current or proposed cross-departmental schemes to make healthy food cheaper and more easily accessible for households.","answerText":"(i) The 2020/21 Health Survey asked “in general, would you say that your eating habits are?”. Survey results showed that 61% of responders (aged 16+) assessed their healthy eating habits as ‘good’ or ‘very good’.\n\nResponse\t2020/21\t95% confidence intervals\nVery good\t19%\t16.6 to 20.7\nGood\t42%\t39.1 to 44.3\nFair\t29%\t26.5 to 31.2\nBad\t9%\t7.5 to 10.4\nVery bad\t2%\t1.2 to 2.6\n\nHowever, the latest data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) for Northern Ireland https://www.food.gov.uk/research/national-diet-and-nutrition-survey/national-diet-and-nutrition-survey-ndns-report-for-northern-ireland (2012/13 – 2016/17) showed that:\n\nthe consumption of 5 A Day fruit and vegetable portions was below the recommendation in all age/sex groups;\n\nthe average consumption of fruit and vegetables for children aged 11 to 18 years in Northern Ireland was 2.5 portions per day with 94% not meeting the 5 A Day recommendation; and\n\non average adults aged 19 to 64 years consumed 3.4 portions per day and adults aged 65 years and over consumed 3.3 portions per day with around 80% not meeting the 5 A Day recommendation.\n\nRecent take home food and drink purchasing data provided by Kantar FMCG Purchase Panel (https://www.food.gov.uk/research/wider-consumer-interests/northern-ireland-take-home-food-and-drink-purchases-2016-2019-2020) demonstrates there was an increase in energy (kcal), total sugars (g), total fat (g) and saturated fat (g) purchased per person per day during 2020, compared to a decrease from 2016 to 2019\n\n(ii) My Department is currently working with stakeholders to develop a new obesity strategy to follow on from the current ‘A Fitter Future For All 2012-2022’ obesity prevention strategic framework. We also continue to work with the Department of Communities on food poverty and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on the new Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework which has a principal to increase access and affordability to healthy nutritious food.","answerHtml":"(i) The 2020/21 Health Survey asked “in general, would you say that your eating habits are?”. Survey results showed that 61% of responders (aged 16+) assessed their healthy eating habits as ‘good’ or ‘very good’.
| Response | 2020/21 | 95% confidence intervals |
| Very good | 19% | 16.6 to 20.7 |
| Good | 42% | 39.1 to 44.3 |
| Fair | 29% | 26.5 to 31.2 |
| Bad | 9% | 7.5 to 10.4 |
| Very bad | 2% | 1.2 to 2.6 |
However, the latest data from the National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) for Northern Ireland https://www.food.gov.uk/research/national-diet-and-nutrition-survey/national-diet-and-nutrition-survey-ndns-report-for-northern-ireland (2012/13 – 2016/17) showed that:
the consumption of 5 A Day fruit and vegetable portions was below the recommendation in all age/sex groups;
the average consumption of fruit and vegetables for children aged 11 to 18 years in Northern Ireland was 2.5 portions per day with 94% not meeting the 5 A Day recommendation; and
on average adults aged 19 to 64 years consumed 3.4 portions per day and adults aged 65 years and over consumed 3.3 portions per day with around 80% not meeting the 5 A Day recommendation.
Recent take home food and drink purchasing data provided by Kantar FMCG Purchase Panel (https://www.food.gov.uk/research/wider-consumer-interests/northern-ireland-take-home-food-and-drink-purchases-2016-2019-2020) demonstrates there was an increase in energy (kcal), total sugars (g), total fat (g) and saturated fat (g) purchased per person per day during 2020, compared to a decrease from 2016 to 2019
(ii) My Department is currently working with stakeholders to develop a new obesity strategy to follow on from the current ‘A Fitter Future For All 2012-2022’ obesity prevention strategic framework. We also continue to work with the Department of Communities on food poverty and Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs on the new Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework which has a principal to increase access and affordability to healthy nutritious food.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20555%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374110"}},{"id":"374102","reference":"AQW 547/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the existing policies that require schools to (a) teach children the importance of healthy eating; and (b) provide healthy meals and snacks; and (ii) what efforts are being made to improve the policies.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of young people being educated to adopt a healthy lifestyle. The Personal Development and Mutual Understanding area of learning at primary level and the Learning for Life and Work (LLW) area of learning at post-primary level are statutory elements within the Northern Ireland curriculum. These areas of learning provide opportunities for pupils, from Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, to learn effectively how to keep themselves healthy and safe, aligned to the importance of healthy eating.\n\nThe Home Economics strand of LLW aims to further equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and values that will help them make appropriate lifestyle choices. This includes understanding food choices and nutritional health in a society where obesity is an increasing problem and diet-related illness is prevalent. Pupils also have the opportunity to pursue qualifications at Key Stage 4 and post-16 that explicitly cover issues relevant to healthy eating, for example, the GCSE in Food and Nutrition and the A Level in Nutrition and Food Science.\n\nTo support schools in the delivery of the curriculum, the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) develops and produces curricular guidance and teaching support materials for use in schools. This includes resources to address the broader issues of obesity, over-consumption of junk food and general health. The CCEA Wellbeing Hub also supports the teaching of young people to learn about the role of exercise, healthy eating and healthy habits as part of good health.\n\nThe Food in Schools policy sets out the Departments’ policy in relation to all food in schools, support available, roles, responsibilities and funding. https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/food-schools-policy\n\nNutritional Standards for food in schools are currently being updated.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of young people being educated to adopt a healthy lifestyle. The Personal Development and Mutual Understanding area of learning at primary level and the Learning for Life and Work (LLW) area of learning at post-primary level are statutory elements within the Northern Ireland curriculum. These areas of learning provide opportunities for pupils, from Foundation Stage to Key Stage 3, to learn effectively how to keep themselves healthy and safe, aligned to the importance of healthy eating.
The Home Economics strand of LLW aims to further equip pupils with the knowledge, skills and values that will help them make appropriate lifestyle choices. This includes understanding food choices and nutritional health in a society where obesity is an increasing problem and diet-related illness is prevalent. Pupils also have the opportunity to pursue qualifications at Key Stage 4 and post-16 that explicitly cover issues relevant to healthy eating, for example, the GCSE in Food and Nutrition and the A Level in Nutrition and Food Science.
To support schools in the delivery of the curriculum, the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) develops and produces curricular guidance and teaching support materials for use in schools. This includes resources to address the broader issues of obesity, over-consumption of junk food and general health. The CCEA Wellbeing Hub also supports the teaching of young people to learn about the role of exercise, healthy eating and healthy habits as part of good health.
The Food in Schools policy sets out the Departments’ policy in relation to all food in schools, support available, roles, responsibilities and funding. https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/food-schools-policy
Nutritional Standards for food in schools are currently being updated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20547%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374102","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374102"}},{"id":"374076","reference":"AQW 521/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the current levels of diabetes; (ii) to outline the current policy on prevention and treatment; and (iii) to detail what new treatment options are being considered.","answerText":"I recognise that diabetes is one of the most challenging chronic conditions facing people in Northern Ireland and impacts both at a population and individual level. Raw disease prevalence information for Northern Ireland 2021/22, recently published by my Department, indicates that, at 31st March 2022, there were 108,223 patients recorded on the General Practice Quality and Outcomes Framework diabetes register, which is a register of the number of patients aged 17 years and over with diabetes mellitus (specified as type 1 or type 2 diabetes).\n\nMy Department published a Strategic Framework for Diabetes in Northern Ireland in 2016. The Framework, which was developed in partnership with a range of stakeholders, including Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes, included a 3-year action plan which aimed to improve outcomes and services for people living with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.\n\nThe Diabetes Network supports the implementation of the Diabetes Strategic Framework and action plan and provides strategic direction for diabetes treatment and care in Northern Ireland. It brings together people living with diabetes, carers, and health and social care professionals working in partnership with Diabetes UK. The Network is based on an ethos of collective leadership and aims to enable people living with diabetes and frontline experts in diabetes care to work in partnership to co-design services for future diabetes care and improvements in the long term health for people living with the condition.\n\nKey achievements and initiatives by the Diabetes Network to support prevention and treatment of diabetes include:\n\nDevelopment of a regional integrated foot-care pathway. The pathway is based on a multi-disciplinary approach that operates across primary care, community and acute hospital services. It is focussed on the prevention of amputations and includes foot assessment and risk assignment, regular review for those with foot complications, delivery of foot health education as part of a structured education programme, acute phase management and specialist investigations for new episodes of diabetic foot disease, and management of acute diabetic foot disease and diabetic foot emergencies, including the care of patients pre- and post-amputation;\n\nIn January 2022, the launch of a new regional insulin pumps service, developed in partnership alongside Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes. The new model has been supported by £2million funding from my Department and aims to ensure equitable access to pumps and support across Northern Ireland for people with Type 1 diabetes. The pathway, ethos and approach for the service have been agreed and this will be developed over the next 3 years. When in place the service will help support people to get the best outcomes from their pump therapy and ensure that diabetes teams across the region can share good practice and optimise care;\n\nThe development of standardised protocols for the management of diabetes in inpatient settings to identify and support patients in hospital at higher risk and to improve insulin prescribing for patients in hospital. Further work continues to improve inpatient care and on the development of a new regional inpatient model;\n\nSupport for women in pregnancy - screening is available for all women for gestational diabetes and uniform protocols of care have been developed to support standardised care;\n\nPrevention of Type 2 diabetes was one of the key areas in the Diabetes Strategic Framework. The Diabetes Prevention Programme, implemented through the Public Health Agency in partnership with Health and Social Care Trusts, aims to support people to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes through weight reduction, healthy food choices and increased physical activity. My Department has a stated aim to align outcomes of the new obesity strategy with the diabetes prevention agenda.\n\nOn an ongoing basis, treatment and care for people living with diabetes is provided in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines.\n\nThe Diabetes Network work programme aims to ensure that opportunities for innovation in prevention, treatment and care are identified, including increasing the use of technology. For example, the Network has made access to insulin pumps a high priority and through the development of the new regional insulin pump model aims to ensure equitable access to pumps and support across Northern Ireland for people with Type 1 diabetes.\n\nIn terms of Type 2 diabetes, the South-Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has worked closely with NHS England, Diabetes UK and Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT) researchers to develop and pilot Northern Ireland’s first Diabetes Remission Programme for Type 2 diabetes patients. This is an intensive structured low calorie diet treatment for people who are overweight and living with Type 2 diabetes to support weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Learning from this pilot is being shared regionally to inform broader consideration for developing a service Northern-Ireland wide.\n\nWork has also commenced to develop a regional pathway for diabetes across Northern Ireland. This model will consider primary and secondary care alignment as a new model of care to best support people living with diabetes.","answerHtml":"I recognise that diabetes is one of the most challenging chronic conditions facing people in Northern Ireland and impacts both at a population and individual level. Raw disease prevalence information for Northern Ireland 2021/22, recently published by my Department, indicates that, at 31st March 2022, there were 108,223 patients recorded on the General Practice Quality and Outcomes Framework diabetes register, which is a register of the number of patients aged 17 years and over with diabetes mellitus (specified as type 1 or type 2 diabetes).
My Department published a Strategic Framework for Diabetes in Northern Ireland in 2016. The Framework, which was developed in partnership with a range of stakeholders, including Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes, included a 3-year action plan which aimed to improve outcomes and services for people living with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
The Diabetes Network supports the implementation of the Diabetes Strategic Framework and action plan and provides strategic direction for diabetes treatment and care in Northern Ireland. It brings together people living with diabetes, carers, and health and social care professionals working in partnership with Diabetes UK. The Network is based on an ethos of collective leadership and aims to enable people living with diabetes and frontline experts in diabetes care to work in partnership to co-design services for future diabetes care and improvements in the long term health for people living with the condition.
Key achievements and initiatives by the Diabetes Network to support prevention and treatment of diabetes include:
Development of a regional integrated foot-care pathway. The pathway is based on a multi-disciplinary approach that operates across primary care, community and acute hospital services. It is focussed on the prevention of amputations and includes foot assessment and risk assignment, regular review for those with foot complications, delivery of foot health education as part of a structured education programme, acute phase management and specialist investigations for new episodes of diabetic foot disease, and management of acute diabetic foot disease and diabetic foot emergencies, including the care of patients pre- and post-amputation;
In January 2022, the launch of a new regional insulin pumps service, developed in partnership alongside Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes. The new model has been supported by £2million funding from my Department and aims to ensure equitable access to pumps and support across Northern Ireland for people with Type 1 diabetes. The pathway, ethos and approach for the service have been agreed and this will be developed over the next 3 years. When in place the service will help support people to get the best outcomes from their pump therapy and ensure that diabetes teams across the region can share good practice and optimise care;
The development of standardised protocols for the management of diabetes in inpatient settings to identify and support patients in hospital at higher risk and to improve insulin prescribing for patients in hospital. Further work continues to improve inpatient care and on the development of a new regional inpatient model;
Support for women in pregnancy - screening is available for all women for gestational diabetes and uniform protocols of care have been developed to support standardised care;
Prevention of Type 2 diabetes was one of the key areas in the Diabetes Strategic Framework. The Diabetes Prevention Programme, implemented through the Public Health Agency in partnership with Health and Social Care Trusts, aims to support people to reduce their risk of developing Type 2 diabetes through weight reduction, healthy food choices and increased physical activity. My Department has a stated aim to align outcomes of the new obesity strategy with the diabetes prevention agenda.
On an ongoing basis, treatment and care for people living with diabetes is provided in line with National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines.
The Diabetes Network work programme aims to ensure that opportunities for innovation in prevention, treatment and care are identified, including increasing the use of technology. For example, the Network has made access to insulin pumps a high priority and through the development of the new regional insulin pump model aims to ensure equitable access to pumps and support across Northern Ireland for people with Type 1 diabetes.
In terms of Type 2 diabetes, the South-Eastern Health and Social Care Trust has worked closely with NHS England, Diabetes UK and Diabetes Remission Clinical Trial (DiRECT) researchers to develop and pilot Northern Ireland’s first Diabetes Remission Programme for Type 2 diabetes patients. This is an intensive structured low calorie diet treatment for people who are overweight and living with Type 2 diabetes to support weight loss and weight loss maintenance. Learning from this pilot is being shared regionally to inform broader consideration for developing a service Northern-Ireland wide.
Work has also commenced to develop a regional pathway for diabetes across Northern Ireland. This model will consider primary and secondary care alignment as a new model of care to best support people living with diabetes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20521%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374076"}},{"id":"374075","reference":"AQW 520/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-25","answerBy":"2022-06-13","answered":"2022-06-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to (i) outline what work has been undertaken to assess levels of loneliness in Northern Ireland; and (ii) detail any steps that are being taken to address the issue.","answerText":"The rising prevalence of loneliness, especially amongst older people and more recently younger people has been identified in practice and research. In 2020, Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NIVCA) research concluded that one in twenty people experience chronic loneliness in Northern Ireland. In 2021, the Wellbeing In Northern Ireland Report produced by Northern Ireland Statistics Research Agency (NISRA) produced data from the Continuous Household Survey which assesses the levels of loneliness, self-efficacy, personal wellbeing an locus of control in Northern Ireland. The Department of Health loneliness team has met with NISRA and has contributed to their final report.\n\nNorthern Ireland does not have a specific strategy to address loneliness, however it is acknowledged as an important but cross cutting issue that no one organization can tackle working alone. It requires a collaborative approach involving all sectors, central government, agencies, voluntary and community sector and beyond. My Department is represented on the All Party Group for loneliness. A number of meetings have been held following its formation in 2019.\n\nMany current policy areas and programmes in the Department lead by HSC organisations do contribute significantly to tackling loneliness and social isolation. These include the Reform of Social Adult Care, the Social Work Strategy, the Mental Health Strategy, the work undertaken by the Primary Care Multi-Disciplinary Teams.\n\nA Department Of Health loneliness co-ordination team has been established to work alongside the wider HSC organisations and an HSC Forum has been set up. These structures will help to raise awareness and destigmatise these important issues as they impact on the health and wellbeing for those who are vulnerable or at risk.\n\nMy Department continues to work in partnership with the ROI, UK and beyond, to learn from other jurisdictions and share information on innovative approaches to tackle loneliness in support of positive outcomes for health and wellbeing.","answerHtml":"The rising prevalence of loneliness, especially amongst older people and more recently younger people has been identified in practice and research. In 2020, Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NIVCA) research concluded that one in twenty people experience chronic loneliness in Northern Ireland. In 2021, the Wellbeing In Northern Ireland Report produced by Northern Ireland Statistics Research Agency (NISRA) produced data from the Continuous Household Survey which assesses the levels of loneliness, self-efficacy, personal wellbeing an locus of control in Northern Ireland. The Department of Health loneliness team has met with NISRA and has contributed to their final report.
Northern Ireland does not have a specific strategy to address loneliness, however it is acknowledged as an important but cross cutting issue that no one organization can tackle working alone. It requires a collaborative approach involving all sectors, central government, agencies, voluntary and community sector and beyond. My Department is represented on the All Party Group for loneliness. A number of meetings have been held following its formation in 2019.
Many current policy areas and programmes in the Department lead by HSC organisations do contribute significantly to tackling loneliness and social isolation. These include the Reform of Social Adult Care, the Social Work Strategy, the Mental Health Strategy, the work undertaken by the Primary Care Multi-Disciplinary Teams.
A Department Of Health loneliness co-ordination team has been established to work alongside the wider HSC organisations and an HSC Forum has been set up. These structures will help to raise awareness and destigmatise these important issues as they impact on the health and wellbeing for those who are vulnerable or at risk.
My Department continues to work in partnership with the ROI, UK and beyond, to learn from other jurisdictions and share information on innovative approaches to tackle loneliness in support of positive outcomes for health and wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20520%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=374075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=374075"}},{"id":"373968","reference":"AQW 477/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of current melanoma rates in Northern Ireland; and (ii) what steps he has taken to both reduce rates and treat melanoma.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, the current incidence of skin cancer has been rising in recent decades and it is now the most common form of cancer. Northern Ireland Cancer Registry’s most recent figures on malignant melanoma indicate that at the end of 2019, there were 4,787 people (Males: 1,914; Females: 2,873) with malignant melanoma who had been diagnosed in Northern Ireland during 1995 to 2019.\n\nMy Department’s Health Improvement Policy Branch launched a Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy for Northern Ireland in 2011, which aimed to reduce the incidences and deaths from skin cancer. While skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland, in the majority of cases it can be effectively treated if detected at an early stage.\n\nThe Strategy identifies children and young adults, as well as people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors, as key target groups. Over exposure to UV radiation is widely accepted as the underlying cause for skin cancer and experts believe that four out of five cases could be prevented by adopting simple precautions. Skin cancer prevention initiatives have included general “care in the sun” awareness raising; specific targeting of at-risk groups such as outdoor workers and sports clubs; educational resources for schools and for summer schemes.\n\nA mid-term review of the Strategy was completed in April 2017. Overall, the review found that significant progress had been made in terms of implementing the strategy and action plan during the period 2011/12 to 2016/17. However, given the nature of skin cancer and long lead in period, rates remain high and are predicted to increase. An extension to the Strategy (which was due to expire in July 2021) was agreed to allow for an end review to take place when pressures allow.\n\nIn addition, the Sunbeds Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 provided for tighter regulation of sunbeds and in particular, prohibits the use, sale or hire of a sunbed to anyone under the age of 18.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, the current incidence of skin cancer has been rising in recent decades and it is now the most common form of cancer. Northern Ireland Cancer Registry’s most recent figures on malignant melanoma indicate that at the end of 2019, there were 4,787 people (Males: 1,914; Females: 2,873) with malignant melanoma who had been diagnosed in Northern Ireland during 1995 to 2019.
My Department’s Health Improvement Policy Branch launched a Skin Cancer Prevention Strategy for Northern Ireland in 2011, which aimed to reduce the incidences and deaths from skin cancer. While skin cancer is now the most common form of cancer in Northern Ireland, in the majority of cases it can be effectively treated if detected at an early stage.
The Strategy identifies children and young adults, as well as people who spend a significant amount of time outdoors, as key target groups. Over exposure to UV radiation is widely accepted as the underlying cause for skin cancer and experts believe that four out of five cases could be prevented by adopting simple precautions. Skin cancer prevention initiatives have included general “care in the sun” awareness raising; specific targeting of at-risk groups such as outdoor workers and sports clubs; educational resources for schools and for summer schemes.
A mid-term review of the Strategy was completed in April 2017. Overall, the review found that significant progress had been made in terms of implementing the strategy and action plan during the period 2011/12 to 2016/17. However, given the nature of skin cancer and long lead in period, rates remain high and are predicted to increase. An extension to the Strategy (which was due to expire in July 2021) was agreed to allow for an end review to take place when pressures allow.
In addition, the Sunbeds Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 provided for tighter regulation of sunbeds and in particular, prohibits the use, sale or hire of a sunbed to anyone under the age of 18.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20477%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373968"}},{"id":"373967","reference":"AQW 476/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the estimated number of unregistered carers; and the amount of money that their work saves the public purse each year.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20476%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373967","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373967"}},{"id":"373957","reference":"AQW 466/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any steps he has taken to improve treatment for people with epilepsy.","answerText":"The Strategic Planning and Performance Group, formerly known as the Health and Social Care Board are working with my Department’s Regional Review of Neurology Services to improve services to patients with neurological conditions including epilepsy.\n\nThe Review, which resumed in June 2021, is tasked with identifying the optimum configuration of neurology services for the next 10-15 years, determining the associated investment required and outlining an implementation plan. As part of the Review, a specific work stream has been established to develop a neurology care pathway to support those with long-term neurological conditions.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Planning and Performance Group, formerly known as the Health and Social Care Board are working with my Department’s Regional Review of Neurology Services to improve services to patients with neurological conditions including epilepsy.
The Review, which resumed in June 2021, is tasked with identifying the optimum configuration of neurology services for the next 10-15 years, determining the associated investment required and outlining an implementation plan. As part of the Review, a specific work stream has been established to develop a neurology care pathway to support those with long-term neurological conditions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20466%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373957"}},{"id":"373956","reference":"AQW 465/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the specific support that exists for people who have experienced trauma.","answerText":"SPPG can only comment on Major Trauma i.e. serious multi-system injury which requires multi-specialty input and has an Injury Severity Score (ISS) between 9 and 15+. All other trauma (ISS <9-15+, minor injury, or psychological trauma) is outside our ability to answer.\n\nWhen a person sustains trauma and if they meet certain clinical criteria then NIAS will bring them to the Major Trauma Centre (MTC) at the RVH for multi-specialty care; this is true for patients if they are within 45 minutes' drive of the RVH. If a person sustains trauma but it does not meet the clinical criteria or if they are outside of a 45 minute drive time to the MTC, then they will be taken to their local Type 1 trauma-receiving unit. The clinical criteria is set out in the Northern Ireland Major Trauma Triage Tool (NIMTTT) and the governing SOP is called 'The Referral and Reverse Referral of Patients to the Major Trauma Centre...'. This type of major trauma system has been shown to improve survival rates by up to 20%.\n\nThere are seven sites that are classified as Type 1 hospitals in Northern Ireland: Altnagelvin (ALT), South West Acute Hospital (SWAH), Causeway (CAU), Antrim Area Hospital (AAH), Craigavon Area Hospital (CAH), The Ulster Hospital Dundonald (UHD), and Daisy Hill Hospital (DHH). However, the latter (DHH) has recently removed acute surgical provision and will be routinely bypassed by NIAS for cases of significantly injured patients.\n\nAt the Type 1 receiving unit the patient will avail of the full range of commissioned services associated with the management of physical trauma at that site. This will include emergency department input, imaging and diagnostics, acute surgical intervention and in-patient recovery. AAH and CAU will not provide orthopaedic surgical input as it is not available in the Northern Trust; in such cases they may directly refer orthopaedic patients to RVH if required. Additionally, if it is subsequently determined at a type 1 unit that a patient hits predetermined major trauma markers then they will be automatically sent to the MTC under the 'Call & Send' protocol.\n\nAt the Major Trauma Centre (MTC) in Belfast arriving patients will also avail of the full range of commissioned services for major trauma. These include emergency department input; imaging and diagnostics; interventional radiology; acute surgery (neuro, vascular, cardiothoracic, orthopaedic, general); plastics are located at UHD but a local agreement provides early access to services at the RVH site.\n\nThe MTC also provides a dedicated major trauma unit/ward which provides a consultant-led multidisciplinary team of trauma specialists. The major trauma unit provides direct input from non-medical consultants in rehabilitation medicine; a regional nerve block room; a major trauma review clinic; and a fracture clinic. Clinical psychology is currently not commissioned for major trauma at the MTC and any input from that specialty has been on a good will basis to date.\n\nThe Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC) serves as an unofficial paediatric major trauma centre. Similarly to the adult site if offers the full range of commissioned services which relate to trauma.\n\nThe Acquired Brain Injury Unit (RABUI), the spinal unit and the amputee unit are all based at Musgrave Park Hospital (MPH) and provide regional rehabilitation services for each category of recovering patient. The Whiteabbey Nightingale legacy model also provides a GP-led regional orthopaedic step-down in-patient unit for recovering patients with less complex needs.","answerHtml":"SPPG can only comment on Major Trauma i.e. serious multi-system injury which requires multi-specialty input and has an Injury Severity Score (ISS) between 9 and 15+. All other trauma (ISS <9-15+, minor injury, or psychological trauma) is outside our ability to answer.
When a person sustains trauma and if they meet certain clinical criteria then NIAS will bring them to the Major Trauma Centre (MTC) at the RVH for multi-specialty care; this is true for patients if they are within 45 minutes' drive of the RVH. If a person sustains trauma but it does not meet the clinical criteria or if they are outside of a 45 minute drive time to the MTC, then they will be taken to their local Type 1 trauma-receiving unit. The clinical criteria is set out in the Northern Ireland Major Trauma Triage Tool (NIMTTT) and the governing SOP is called 'The Referral and Reverse Referral of Patients to the Major Trauma Centre...'. This type of major trauma system has been shown to improve survival rates by up to 20%.
There are seven sites that are classified as Type 1 hospitals in Northern Ireland: Altnagelvin (ALT), South West Acute Hospital (SWAH), Causeway (CAU), Antrim Area Hospital (AAH), Craigavon Area Hospital (CAH), The Ulster Hospital Dundonald (UHD), and Daisy Hill Hospital (DHH). However, the latter (DHH) has recently removed acute surgical provision and will be routinely bypassed by NIAS for cases of significantly injured patients.
At the Type 1 receiving unit the patient will avail of the full range of commissioned services associated with the management of physical trauma at that site. This will include emergency department input, imaging and diagnostics, acute surgical intervention and in-patient recovery. AAH and CAU will not provide orthopaedic surgical input as it is not available in the Northern Trust; in such cases they may directly refer orthopaedic patients to RVH if required. Additionally, if it is subsequently determined at a type 1 unit that a patient hits predetermined major trauma markers then they will be automatically sent to the MTC under the 'Call & Send' protocol.
At the Major Trauma Centre (MTC) in Belfast arriving patients will also avail of the full range of commissioned services for major trauma. These include emergency department input; imaging and diagnostics; interventional radiology; acute surgery (neuro, vascular, cardiothoracic, orthopaedic, general); plastics are located at UHD but a local agreement provides early access to services at the RVH site.
The MTC also provides a dedicated major trauma unit/ward which provides a consultant-led multidisciplinary team of trauma specialists. The major trauma unit provides direct input from non-medical consultants in rehabilitation medicine; a regional nerve block room; a major trauma review clinic; and a fracture clinic. Clinical psychology is currently not commissioned for major trauma at the MTC and any input from that specialty has been on a good will basis to date.
The Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children (RBHSC) serves as an unofficial paediatric major trauma centre. Similarly to the adult site if offers the full range of commissioned services which relate to trauma.
The Acquired Brain Injury Unit (RABUI), the spinal unit and the amputee unit are all based at Musgrave Park Hospital (MPH) and provide regional rehabilitation services for each category of recovering patient. The Whiteabbey Nightingale legacy model also provides a GP-led regional orthopaedic step-down in-patient unit for recovering patients with less complex needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20465%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373956"}},{"id":"373955","reference":"AQW 464/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-24","answerBy":"2022-06-10","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on his plans to implement the recommendations of the Bengoa report; and (ii) for his assessment of how implementing these recommendations would impact on the efficiency and delivery of the health service.","answerText":"Health and Wellbeing 2026: Delivering Together sets out my Department’s response to the recommendations included in the Bengoa Report. Delivering Together sets out to stabilise, reconfigure and to transform Health and Social Care services.\n\n(i) Since the launch of Delivering Together in October 2016, three reports on the progress of the ring-fenced transformation funding projects have been published in 2017, 2019 and 2021. These reports are available at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/progressreportintroduction\n\n(ii) The evidence contained within these three progress reports, particularly the most recent report, confirms that this programme of activity continues to be successful in stabilising, reconfiguring and improving our health and social care services.\n\nI have also published strategies for mental health, elective care and cancer services and have launched a consultation on urgent and emergency care. Together, with Health and Wellbeing 2026, these strategies articulate a clear trajectory to stabilise, reconfigure and improve our Health and Social Care Services. I have however made it clear that delivering this agenda will require sustained recurrent funding and support for change.","answerHtml":"Health and Wellbeing 2026: Delivering Together sets out my Department’s response to the recommendations included in the Bengoa Report. Delivering Together sets out to stabilise, reconfigure and to transform Health and Social Care services.
(i) Since the launch of Delivering Together in October 2016, three reports on the progress of the ring-fenced transformation funding projects have been published in 2017, 2019 and 2021. These reports are available at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/progressreportintroduction
(ii) The evidence contained within these three progress reports, particularly the most recent report, confirms that this programme of activity continues to be successful in stabilising, reconfiguring and improving our health and social care services.
I have also published strategies for mental health, elective care and cancer services and have launched a consultation on urgent and emergency care. Together, with Health and Wellbeing 2026, these strategies articulate a clear trajectory to stabilise, reconfigure and improve our Health and Social Care Services. I have however made it clear that delivering this agenda will require sustained recurrent funding and support for change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20464%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373955"}},{"id":"373856","reference":"AQW 387/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the (a) financial; and (b) respite support that his Department is providing to all carers; and (ii) what steps he is taking to contact unregistered carers to provide access to the support they need.","answerText":"(i) (a) Financial support for carers is the responsibility of the Department for Communities. While my Department does not make direct financial payments to carers, the HSC Trusts do have the facility to make a cash grant payment to carers following the completion of an assessment of their need. Such payments can be made to replace a broken domestic appliance or to pay for a short break for the carer.\n\nIn recognition of the need to support all carers, I was pleased to launch the Support for Carers Fund last year, with £4.4m allocated to the fund. The aim was to provide grant funding to organisations with charitable status that can deliver outcomes to improve the lives and experiences of carers. The second round of awards, totalling more than £1m, was announced in March 2022. This announcement followed the allocation of almost £600,000 in the first round of funding, announced last September, and I am pleased to advise that a third call for applications for funding is currently open, with a closing date of 20 June 2022.\n\nA wide range of projects have received funding to date, including the provision of practical support, wellbeing events, respite, advocacy support, and mental health support. Projects also cover both adult and young carers. I look forward to seeing how they make a difference in the lives and experiences of individual carers in the coming months and years.\n\n(b) Significant efforts have been made by Trusts to implement the Public Health Agency Pathway to remobilise respite services to manage risk, while increasing service provision on a phased basis, throughout a period of high community prevalence of Covid-19.\n\nShort Breaks provision across statutory health & social care settings has significantly increased. However, overall capacity has reduced as a number of respite beds available in care homes have been withdrawn by independent sector providers.\n\nThere remains further adjustments to public health guidance required before services can be fully restore to pre-pandemic levels. Therefore, officials have written to the PHA asking them to commence an urgent formal review of the Pathway and associated health protection guidelines.\n\nAligned to this process, the Department has requested performance and capacity data across all Trusts, which will be published on the Department’s website in June 2022.\n\n(ii) In 2021, in recognition of the need to reach out to unpaid carers in particular, my Department organised a leaflet drop through the door of every home in Northern Ireland, in an attempt to encourage those in a caring role to seek the help and support they need and may be entitled to.\n\nTrusts continue to proactively reach out to identify informal, unpaid carers to ensure they have the support they require in their caring role, and are able to access appropriate advice and support. This is done by working closely with GPs, pharmacists, and the community and voluntary sector, especially condition specific agencies and other public agencies such as Councils and Colleges of Further Education. A range of information and communication methods are used to encourage people to come forward and identify themselves as carers and also to inform them of services available.\n\nTrusts ensure services actively seek to identify carers, including young carers. This includes ensuring hospital teams understand what carers need in order to provide them with information and support. This is supported by an ongoing programme of staff training to raise awareness of carers and create capacity with staff to identify and support carers. As standard practice, when staff identify carers, they are offered carer assessments or reassessments and if accepted, arrangements are made for the assessments to be carried out. This is also supported by a programme of carer assessment training for staff.\n\nFurther to this, carers’ registers are in place regionally across Northern Ireland. The Health and Social Care Trusts maintain the registers, which carers can voluntarily choose to join. These registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities.\n\nIn terms of future actions, as part of the Reform of Adult Social Care, proposals are now out for consultation regarding how to bring about changes to how we provide social care, including better support for Family Carers. The consultation started on 26 January 2022 with the closing date extended to 1 July 2022.\n\nFollowing the completion of the consultation, responses and feedback will be analysed and collated for review by the Department and a consultation feedback report published.\n\nThe consultation will inform the development of a new strategy for adult social care.","answerHtml":"(i) (a) Financial support for carers is the responsibility of the Department for Communities. While my Department does not make direct financial payments to carers, the HSC Trusts do have the facility to make a cash grant payment to carers following the completion of an assessment of their need. Such payments can be made to replace a broken domestic appliance or to pay for a short break for the carer.
In recognition of the need to support all carers, I was pleased to launch the Support for Carers Fund last year, with £4.4m allocated to the fund. The aim was to provide grant funding to organisations with charitable status that can deliver outcomes to improve the lives and experiences of carers. The second round of awards, totalling more than £1m, was announced in March 2022. This announcement followed the allocation of almost £600,000 in the first round of funding, announced last September, and I am pleased to advise that a third call for applications for funding is currently open, with a closing date of 20 June 2022.
A wide range of projects have received funding to date, including the provision of practical support, wellbeing events, respite, advocacy support, and mental health support. Projects also cover both adult and young carers. I look forward to seeing how they make a difference in the lives and experiences of individual carers in the coming months and years.
(b) Significant efforts have been made by Trusts to implement the Public Health Agency Pathway to remobilise respite services to manage risk, while increasing service provision on a phased basis, throughout a period of high community prevalence of Covid-19.
Short Breaks provision across statutory health & social care settings has significantly increased. However, overall capacity has reduced as a number of respite beds available in care homes have been withdrawn by independent sector providers.
There remains further adjustments to public health guidance required before services can be fully restore to pre-pandemic levels. Therefore, officials have written to the PHA asking them to commence an urgent formal review of the Pathway and associated health protection guidelines.
Aligned to this process, the Department has requested performance and capacity data across all Trusts, which will be published on the Department’s website in June 2022.
(ii) In 2021, in recognition of the need to reach out to unpaid carers in particular, my Department organised a leaflet drop through the door of every home in Northern Ireland, in an attempt to encourage those in a caring role to seek the help and support they need and may be entitled to.
Trusts continue to proactively reach out to identify informal, unpaid carers to ensure they have the support they require in their caring role, and are able to access appropriate advice and support. This is done by working closely with GPs, pharmacists, and the community and voluntary sector, especially condition specific agencies and other public agencies such as Councils and Colleges of Further Education. A range of information and communication methods are used to encourage people to come forward and identify themselves as carers and also to inform them of services available.
Trusts ensure services actively seek to identify carers, including young carers. This includes ensuring hospital teams understand what carers need in order to provide them with information and support. This is supported by an ongoing programme of staff training to raise awareness of carers and create capacity with staff to identify and support carers. As standard practice, when staff identify carers, they are offered carer assessments or reassessments and if accepted, arrangements are made for the assessments to be carried out. This is also supported by a programme of carer assessment training for staff.
Further to this, carers’ registers are in place regionally across Northern Ireland. The Health and Social Care Trusts maintain the registers, which carers can voluntarily choose to join. These registers are primarily a means of sharing information and advice with carers and for supporting carers through networks and activities.
In terms of future actions, as part of the Reform of Adult Social Care, proposals are now out for consultation regarding how to bring about changes to how we provide social care, including better support for Family Carers. The consultation started on 26 January 2022 with the closing date extended to 1 July 2022.
Following the completion of the consultation, responses and feedback will be analysed and collated for review by the Department and a consultation feedback report published.
The consultation will inform the development of a new strategy for adult social care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20387%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373856","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373856"}},{"id":"373842","reference":"AQW 373/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the publication of the Strategic Investment Board report into the need of and potential for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Strategic Investment Board for Northern Ireland (SIB) was commissioned to undertake a formal assessment of the need and an independent analysis of the various options for better assuring the supply of veterinarians, and an associated centre of excellence for innovation and research, in Northern Ireland. The Department has received the SIB’s assessment of need and officials are considering next steps.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Investment Board for Northern Ireland (SIB) was commissioned to undertake a formal assessment of the need and an independent analysis of the various options for better assuring the supply of veterinarians, and an associated centre of excellence for innovation and research, in Northern Ireland. The Department has received the SIB’s assessment of need and officials are considering next steps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20373%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373842"}},{"id":"373840","reference":"AQW 371/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the (i) number of people living with a neuro-disability, broken down by constituency; (ii) support that exists for sufferers; and (iii) recent scientific, medical and therapeutic advances that have been made in treatment and diagnosis.","answerText":"My Department does not hold figures on the number of people living with a neuro-disability in Northern Ireland, however, the average number of annual admissions and individuals admitted to neurology and neurosurgery specialties in Northern Ireland by Assembly constituency (2018-19 to 2020-21) is provided below. Figures relate to the average number of admissions or number of individuals for the last 3 years of complete data (2018-19 to 2020-21). Data has been rounded to the nearest whole person/ admission:\n\nAverage annual number of admissions and individuals admitted to Neurology and Neurosurgery Specialties in Northern Ireland by Assembly Area of residence (2018-19 to 2020-21)\nAdmissions\tIndividuals\nNeurosurgery Specialty\tNeurology Specialty\tTotal\tTotal\nBelfast East\t64\t154\t218\t125\nBelfast North\t116\t241\t357\t201\nBelfast South\t85\t223\t308\t166\nBelfast West\t149\t173\t322\t211\nEast Antrim\t77\t176\t253\t135\nEast Londonderry\t88\t196\t284\t130\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\t73\t202\t275\t127\nFoyle\t81\t207\t288\t107\nLagan Valley\t93\t313\t406\t202\nMid Ulster\t77\t182\t259\t135\nNewry And Armagh\t31\t57\t88\t40\nNorth Antrim\t100\t252\t352\t171\nNorth Down\t111\t206\t317\t146\nSouth Antrim\t84\t264\t348\t137\nSouth Down\t92\t212\t304\t144\nStrangford\t86\t269\t355\t156\nUpper Bann\t78\t217\t295\t137\nWest Tyrone\t77\t320\t397\t174\nUnknown\t33\t21\t54\t37\nNorthern Ireland\t1,595\t3,885\t5,480\t2,681\n\nNeuro-disabilities are a very wide ranging group of congenital or acquired long term conditions, including brain injury and autism. The Regional Specialist Acquired Brain Injury In-patient Unit (RABIU) at Musgrave Park Hospital serves the whole of NI. Staff within RABIU link with the Multi-disciplinary Brain Injury Teams within each of the five HSC Trusts, and these teams provide rehabilitation and support following a period of in-patient treatment. My Department also has two regional contracts, one to provide vocational training and support to people with an acquired brain injury and the other is to provide recreational support to people and their carers.\n\nMy Department has established formal links with NICE whereby guidance published by NICE is locally reviewed for applicability to NI and, where appropriate, endorsed by the Department for implementation in Health and Social Care. This link has ensured that NI has access to up-to-date, independent, professional, evidence-based guidance on the value of health care interventions. My Department has also recently contributed to the call for evidence for the development of an Acquired Brain Injury Cross-Government Strategy lead by Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) England. In addition, the development of an Autism Strategy for Northern Ireland for the period 2023-2028 is also currently underway.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold figures on the number of people living with a neuro-disability in Northern Ireland, however, the average number of annual admissions and individuals admitted to neurology and neurosurgery specialties in Northern Ireland by Assembly constituency (2018-19 to 2020-21) is provided below. Figures relate to the average number of admissions or number of individuals for the last 3 years of complete data (2018-19 to 2020-21). Data has been rounded to the nearest whole person/ admission:
| Average annual number of admissions and individuals admitted to Neurology and Neurosurgery Specialties in Northern Ireland by Assembly Area of residence (2018-19 to 2020-21) | ||||
| Admissions | Individuals | |||
| Neurosurgery Specialty | Neurology Specialty | Total | Total | |
| Belfast East | 64 | 154 | 218 | 125 |
| Belfast North | 116 | 241 | 357 | 201 |
| Belfast South | 85 | 223 | 308 | 166 |
| Belfast West | 149 | 173 | 322 | 211 |
| East Antrim | 77 | 176 | 253 | 135 |
| East Londonderry | 88 | 196 | 284 | 130 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | 73 | 202 | 275 | 127 |
| Foyle | 81 | 207 | 288 | 107 |
| Lagan Valley | 93 | 313 | 406 | 202 |
| Mid Ulster | 77 | 182 | 259 | 135 |
| Newry And Armagh | 31 | 57 | 88 | 40 |
| North Antrim | 100 | 252 | 352 | 171 |
| North Down | 111 | 206 | 317 | 146 |
| South Antrim | 84 | 264 | 348 | 137 |
| South Down | 92 | 212 | 304 | 144 |
| Strangford | 86 | 269 | 355 | 156 |
| Upper Bann | 78 | 217 | 295 | 137 |
| West Tyrone | 77 | 320 | 397 | 174 |
| Unknown | 33 | 21 | 54 | 37 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,595 | 3,885 | 5,480 | 2,681 |
Neuro-disabilities are a very wide ranging group of congenital or acquired long term conditions, including brain injury and autism. The Regional Specialist Acquired Brain Injury In-patient Unit (RABIU) at Musgrave Park Hospital serves the whole of NI. Staff within RABIU link with the Multi-disciplinary Brain Injury Teams within each of the five HSC Trusts, and these teams provide rehabilitation and support following a period of in-patient treatment. My Department also has two regional contracts, one to provide vocational training and support to people with an acquired brain injury and the other is to provide recreational support to people and their carers.
My Department has established formal links with NICE whereby guidance published by NICE is locally reviewed for applicability to NI and, where appropriate, endorsed by the Department for implementation in Health and Social Care. This link has ensured that NI has access to up-to-date, independent, professional, evidence-based guidance on the value of health care interventions. My Department has also recently contributed to the call for evidence for the development of an Acquired Brain Injury Cross-Government Strategy lead by Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) England. In addition, the development of an Autism Strategy for Northern Ireland for the period 2023-2028 is also currently underway.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20371%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373840"}},{"id":"373839","reference":"AQW 370/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the (i) actions he has taken to better support parents who have lost a child to stillbirth or neonatal death; and (ii) work undertaken to better understand the causes of stillbirth and neonatal death.","answerText":"(i) All Trusts recognise the importance of supporting parents who have lost a child to stillbirth or experienced a neonatal death. In these sad circumstances, a wide range of support services for bereaved parents are available across each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust and delivered in partnership between clinicians, bereavement coordinators and the community and voluntary sector.\n\nIn cases of stillbirth or early neonatal death, all Trusts in Northern Ireland have a Bereavement Midwife who provides support and guidance for bereaved women, partners and their families. This support and guidance will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual woman, her partner and family as appropriate. The Bereavement Midwife also works to ensure that all staff within the relevant healthcare settings are supported and enabled to provide compassionate and respectful care for families who experience such a loss.\n\nEach Trust has also had a Trust Bereavement Coordinator in place since 2006, when the HSC Bereavement Network was established to provide information, guidance and resources for those who care for and support people around the time of death and bereavement, as well as a Bereavement Forum which meets regularly with a wide membership comprising staff and service users.\n\nIn addition, the Department has commissioned a Palliative and Life Limited Service (PALLS) from the NI Children’s Hospice. With the support of a dedicated specialist nurse and access to a bed in the Children’s Hospice (or the child’s own home), there is wrap around support for those families where the baby is expected to die shortly after birth. PALLS allows the parents to spend time together as a family in a supportive environment with time for memory making before the baby passes away. Follow up bereavement care and support is also provided to help the family in these difficult circumstances.\n\n(ii) Reducing stillbirth and neonatal death is a priority for the HSC system. A number of work streams are in place across the region with the aim of reducing perinatal mortality:\n\nImplementation of the Department of Health England’s Saving Babies’ Lives Care Bundle which first issued in 2016 with an updated version published in 2019 is underway in Northern Ireland. The focus is on reducing the incidence of stillbirth and neonatal death. Saving Babies Lives 2 saw the addition of work on preventing premature births where possible. The Public Health Agency (PHA) was asked by the Department to complete an assessment of the extent to which work to reduce stillbirth is embedded across the HSC. A regional action plan to reduce stillbirths has been put in place and a regional group, led by the PHA with representation from the five Trusts, has been tasked with overseeing and co-ordinating this important work.\n\nUK Perinatal surveillance has been in place since 1992 and a consortium called MBRRACE-UK (Mothers and Babies: Reducing risk though audit and confidential enquiries) led by the National Perinatal Unit in Oxford has been running the Maternal, Newborn and Infant CORP since 2012. A yearly national report on perinatal mortality surveillance is published by MBRRACE in Autumn each year. A pattern of generally higher rates of neonatal morality in Northern Ireland has been demonstrated over the past seven years of reporting with peaks noted in 2015 and 2019. The NI data includes deaths associated with congenital anomaly. The Department and PHA are leading on coordinated regional action to consider and address recommendations of both the MBRRACE-UK Perinatal Mortality Surveillance Report for perinatal deaths of births in 2019 (published 14 October 2021) and the 3rd annual report on Learning from Standardised Reviews when babies die, National Perinatal Mortality Review Tool (published 13 October 2021).\n\nEqually important in preventing stillbirths and neonatal deaths is the priority given to reviewing and learning from these events when they do sadly occur. Perinatal mortality reviews have a dual aim; primarily they support objective, robust and standardised review of stillbirths and deaths in the newborn period to provide answers for bereaved parents and families as to why their baby may have died, and secondarily to support local and national learning and inform further action to improve the safety and quality of services. All stillbirths and neonatal deaths are subject to a perinatal mortality review and the requirement to undertake a multidisciplinary review of all perinatal deaths is a corporate Trust responsibility. Using the Perinatal Mortality Review Tool (PMRT), each Trust will work through an objective, structured and detailed multidisciplinary review of each perinatal death. The review process aims to identify any contributory factors to sub-standard care and suggest potential issues which may be developed into action plans for learning and service improvement. Trusts are required to report progress on the use of PMRT to the Department of Health and the Public Health Agency on an ongoing basis and audits are in place to ensure adherence to the review process across all Trusts.","answerHtml":"(i) All Trusts recognise the importance of supporting parents who have lost a child to stillbirth or experienced a neonatal death. In these sad circumstances, a wide range of support services for bereaved parents are available across each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust and delivered in partnership between clinicians, bereavement coordinators and the community and voluntary sector.
In cases of stillbirth or early neonatal death, all Trusts in Northern Ireland have a Bereavement Midwife who provides support and guidance for bereaved women, partners and their families. This support and guidance will be tailored to meet the needs of the individual woman, her partner and family as appropriate. The Bereavement Midwife also works to ensure that all staff within the relevant healthcare settings are supported and enabled to provide compassionate and respectful care for families who experience such a loss.
Each Trust has also had a Trust Bereavement Coordinator in place since 2006, when the HSC Bereavement Network was established to provide information, guidance and resources for those who care for and support people around the time of death and bereavement, as well as a Bereavement Forum which meets regularly with a wide membership comprising staff and service users.
In addition, the Department has commissioned a Palliative and Life Limited Service (PALLS) from the NI Children’s Hospice. With the support of a dedicated specialist nurse and access to a bed in the Children’s Hospice (or the child’s own home), there is wrap around support for those families where the baby is expected to die shortly after birth. PALLS allows the parents to spend time together as a family in a supportive environment with time for memory making before the baby passes away. Follow up bereavement care and support is also provided to help the family in these difficult circumstances.
(ii) Reducing stillbirth and neonatal death is a priority for the HSC system. A number of work streams are in place across the region with the aim of reducing perinatal mortality:
Implementation of the Department of Health England’s Saving Babies’ Lives Care Bundle which first issued in 2016 with an updated version published in 2019 is underway in Northern Ireland. The focus is on reducing the incidence of stillbirth and neonatal death. Saving Babies Lives 2 saw the addition of work on preventing premature births where possible. The Public Health Agency (PHA) was asked by the Department to complete an assessment of the extent to which work to reduce stillbirth is embedded across the HSC. A regional action plan to reduce stillbirths has been put in place and a regional group, led by the PHA with representation from the five Trusts, has been tasked with overseeing and co-ordinating this important work.
UK Perinatal surveillance has been in place since 1992 and a consortium called MBRRACE-UK (Mothers and Babies: Reducing risk though audit and confidential enquiries) led by the National Perinatal Unit in Oxford has been running the Maternal, Newborn and Infant CORP since 2012. A yearly national report on perinatal mortality surveillance is published by MBRRACE in Autumn each year. A pattern of generally higher rates of neonatal morality in Northern Ireland has been demonstrated over the past seven years of reporting with peaks noted in 2015 and 2019. The NI data includes deaths associated with congenital anomaly. The Department and PHA are leading on coordinated regional action to consider and address recommendations of both the MBRRACE-UK Perinatal Mortality Surveillance Report for perinatal deaths of births in 2019 (published 14 October 2021) and the 3rd annual report on Learning from Standardised Reviews when babies die, National Perinatal Mortality Review Tool (published 13 October 2021).
Equally important in preventing stillbirths and neonatal deaths is the priority given to reviewing and learning from these events when they do sadly occur. Perinatal mortality reviews have a dual aim; primarily they support objective, robust and standardised review of stillbirths and deaths in the newborn period to provide answers for bereaved parents and families as to why their baby may have died, and secondarily to support local and national learning and inform further action to improve the safety and quality of services. All stillbirths and neonatal deaths are subject to a perinatal mortality review and the requirement to undertake a multidisciplinary review of all perinatal deaths is a corporate Trust responsibility. Using the Perinatal Mortality Review Tool (PMRT), each Trust will work through an objective, structured and detailed multidisciplinary review of each perinatal death. The review process aims to identify any contributory factors to sub-standard care and suggest potential issues which may be developed into action plans for learning and service improvement. Trusts are required to report progress on the use of PMRT to the Department of Health and the Public Health Agency on an ongoing basis and audits are in place to ensure adherence to the review process across all Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20370%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373839"}},{"id":"373838","reference":"AQW 369/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-23","answerBy":"2022-06-09","answered":"2022-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of bowel cancer (i) prevalence; (ii) survival rates; and (iii) treatment waiting times, with reference to how these compare to other parts of the UK and the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"Prevalence\n\nNorthern Ireland Cancer Registry prevalence data suggests that at the end of 2019 there were approximately 8,861 colorectal cancer survivors living in Northern Ireland. (Colorectal Fact Sheet, Northern Ireland Cancer Registry-Factsheet colorectal.pdf (ncri.ie))\n\nSurvival\n\nMost recent data from the NI Cancer Registry data suggests that 81.1% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer in NI survive for one year and 61.5% survive for 5 years (based on patients diagnosed 2010-2014). Office for National Statistics data for patients diagnosed in England 2013-17 suggests one and five year survival of approximately 80% and 60% respectively. One year survival data is not available for the Republic of Ireland but the 5 year survival is comparable at 62.2%.\n\n(The 31 day standard aims to ensure that patients wait no longer than 31 days between the decision to treat and commencement of first definitive treatment. The 62 day standard aims to ensure that patients wait no longer than 62 days from receipt of referral to the commencement of first definitive treatment).\n\nIt is acknowledged that performance against cancer waiting times in Northern Ireland is poor. Performance on the 31 day standard for colorectal cancer consistently sits at around 95% against a target of 98%. In 2021/22, 31 day performance was 95%; the equivalent figure in England was 93%. Performance against the 62 day standard has been consistently low ranging from 47% in 2018/19 to just 18% in 2020/21 (the equivalent figure for England for 2020/21 was 50%), Essentially the 31day standard reflects the treatment pathway, and performance, whilst still below the stated target of 98%, is consistently high. The fact that we are significantly underperforming on the 62 day pathway therefore reflects challenges, not within the treatment pathway, but within the diagnostic pathway.\n\nWithin colorectal cancer pathway the main diagnostic tools are colonoscopy and CT scans. COVID impact aside, Northern Ireland has had significant demand capacity gap within scopes for some years which until recently Trusts have attempted to manage year to year using non-recurrent funding. I have recently announced recurrent funding to support 20 additional regional scopes sessions at LVH and 10 additional sessions at Omagh. It is hoped that some of these sessions will commence by October. When fully implemented this investment will give capacity for 9,000 additional scopes per year. It is anticipated that this will have a significant impact on regional waiting time for scopes.\n\nIn addition to this the service is taking forward a range of other measures to help address back logs.\n\nTheatre Utilisation for endoscopy lists – At a regional level we are currently delivering 85% run time against a 90% target. Improvement work is underway to look at how we increase efficiency to allow more capacity within current resources.\n\nIndependent Sector insourcing – Belfast and South Eastern Trusts have established insourcing arrangements that utilise their endoscopy suites at weekends. Northern and Western are due to commence this in Quarter 3 of this year, with the assumption at present that this will allow for an additional 2,100 scopes before the end of March.\n\nWaiting List Initiatives In House – The three Trusts not currently insourcing are providing their own WLI sessions at weekends. In Quarter 2, this will give approximately another 850 procedures for those Trusts.\n\nDirect sends to IS – Northern, Southern and Western Trusts are all currently sending patient to a local independent sector provider to provide additional capacity. Cumulatively, this will provide in the region of an additional 2,000 scopes before the end of March. These patients are a mix of priorities, but any capacity we can deliver for other urgent patients give Trusts the flexibility to schedule more red flag scopes in house.\n\nIn addition to the work on scopes, we have supported 15 additional CT sessions per week across the region in 2021/22 and this will continue in year.\n\nIn addition to the above measures, Northern Ireland has taken forward or is progressing a number of service developments aimed at improving colorectal cancer survival.\n\nNorthern Ireland has been at the forefront of use of quantitative Faecal Immunohistochemistry testing (qFIT) as a way of identifying patients at a high risk of colorectal cancer. This simple poo test was first introduced within the hospital setting in May 2020 in response to COVID to enable us to prioritise precious scopes capacity, which was significantly reduced throughout COVID. Since then the Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) has revised its referral guidance for suspect colorectal cancer to include the use of qFIT testing which is now readily available in primary care. This change in practice enabled Northern Ireland to increase its colorectal cancer diagnoses during COVID despite the impact of the pandemic on both referrals and scopes.\n\nLynch testing – in line with NICE guidance Northern Ireland expanded the provision of testing for Lynch syndrome to all patients with a colorectal cancer diagnoses from 2019. This test can help identify patients who may have an inherited genetic condition that puts them at increased risk of several cancers. The ability to identify people who are Lynch positive enables us to offer cascade testing to family members so that they can be placed on surveillance to allow earlier diagnosis.\n\nOne of the things that impacts cancer survival is stage at diagnosis. If we can diagnose early, survival improves. Public awareness of signs and symptoms of suspect cancer is key. One of the grants awarded from the Cancer Charities Fund which I established in 2021 was given to Cancer Research UK for the delivery of a 3 year cancer awareness programme. The programme is currently being developed in partnership with NICaN and the Public Health Agency and the first phase will begin in the autumn.\n\nFinally, PHA has commissioned the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry to undertake an audit of colorectal cancer care, looking at key standards of care. The results of that audit should be available later this month and should provide useful information in terms of those areas where we can further improve.\n\nDespite this progress, we recognise there is more to do system wide. The HSC is under great pressure, with increasing demands on cancer diagnostics and more urgent referrals. Diagnosing and treating cancer early gives patients the best chance of surviving their cancer, but it depends heavily on having enough staff and funding in place to make this a reality. Ultimately, sustainable improvements in cancer wait times and survival will rely on sustainable investment in services and will depend on our ability to fund the Cancer Strategy (2022) and the Elective Care Framework (2022).","answerHtml":"Prevalence
Northern Ireland Cancer Registry prevalence data suggests that at the end of 2019 there were approximately 8,861 colorectal cancer survivors living in Northern Ireland. (Colorectal Fact Sheet, Northern Ireland Cancer Registry-Factsheet colorectal.pdf (ncri.ie))
Survival
Most recent data from the NI Cancer Registry data suggests that 81.1% of people diagnosed with colorectal cancer in NI survive for one year and 61.5% survive for 5 years (based on patients diagnosed 2010-2014). Office for National Statistics data for patients diagnosed in England 2013-17 suggests one and five year survival of approximately 80% and 60% respectively. One year survival data is not available for the Republic of Ireland but the 5 year survival is comparable at 62.2%.
(The 31 day standard aims to ensure that patients wait no longer than 31 days between the decision to treat and commencement of first definitive treatment. The 62 day standard aims to ensure that patients wait no longer than 62 days from receipt of referral to the commencement of first definitive treatment).
It is acknowledged that performance against cancer waiting times in Northern Ireland is poor. Performance on the 31 day standard for colorectal cancer consistently sits at around 95% against a target of 98%. In 2021/22, 31 day performance was 95%; the equivalent figure in England was 93%. Performance against the 62 day standard has been consistently low ranging from 47% in 2018/19 to just 18% in 2020/21 (the equivalent figure for England for 2020/21 was 50%), Essentially the 31day standard reflects the treatment pathway, and performance, whilst still below the stated target of 98%, is consistently high. The fact that we are significantly underperforming on the 62 day pathway therefore reflects challenges, not within the treatment pathway, but within the diagnostic pathway.
Within colorectal cancer pathway the main diagnostic tools are colonoscopy and CT scans. COVID impact aside, Northern Ireland has had significant demand capacity gap within scopes for some years which until recently Trusts have attempted to manage year to year using non-recurrent funding. I have recently announced recurrent funding to support 20 additional regional scopes sessions at LVH and 10 additional sessions at Omagh. It is hoped that some of these sessions will commence by October. When fully implemented this investment will give capacity for 9,000 additional scopes per year. It is anticipated that this will have a significant impact on regional waiting time for scopes.
In addition to this the service is taking forward a range of other measures to help address back logs.
Theatre Utilisation for endoscopy lists – At a regional level we are currently delivering 85% run time against a 90% target. Improvement work is underway to look at how we increase efficiency to allow more capacity within current resources.
Independent Sector insourcing – Belfast and South Eastern Trusts have established insourcing arrangements that utilise their endoscopy suites at weekends. Northern and Western are due to commence this in Quarter 3 of this year, with the assumption at present that this will allow for an additional 2,100 scopes before the end of March.
Waiting List Initiatives In House – The three Trusts not currently insourcing are providing their own WLI sessions at weekends. In Quarter 2, this will give approximately another 850 procedures for those Trusts.
Direct sends to IS – Northern, Southern and Western Trusts are all currently sending patient to a local independent sector provider to provide additional capacity. Cumulatively, this will provide in the region of an additional 2,000 scopes before the end of March. These patients are a mix of priorities, but any capacity we can deliver for other urgent patients give Trusts the flexibility to schedule more red flag scopes in house.
In addition to the work on scopes, we have supported 15 additional CT sessions per week across the region in 2021/22 and this will continue in year.
In addition to the above measures, Northern Ireland has taken forward or is progressing a number of service developments aimed at improving colorectal cancer survival.
Northern Ireland has been at the forefront of use of quantitative Faecal Immunohistochemistry testing (qFIT) as a way of identifying patients at a high risk of colorectal cancer. This simple poo test was first introduced within the hospital setting in May 2020 in response to COVID to enable us to prioritise precious scopes capacity, which was significantly reduced throughout COVID. Since then the Northern Ireland Cancer Network (NICaN) has revised its referral guidance for suspect colorectal cancer to include the use of qFIT testing which is now readily available in primary care. This change in practice enabled Northern Ireland to increase its colorectal cancer diagnoses during COVID despite the impact of the pandemic on both referrals and scopes.
Lynch testing – in line with NICE guidance Northern Ireland expanded the provision of testing for Lynch syndrome to all patients with a colorectal cancer diagnoses from 2019. This test can help identify patients who may have an inherited genetic condition that puts them at increased risk of several cancers. The ability to identify people who are Lynch positive enables us to offer cascade testing to family members so that they can be placed on surveillance to allow earlier diagnosis.
One of the things that impacts cancer survival is stage at diagnosis. If we can diagnose early, survival improves. Public awareness of signs and symptoms of suspect cancer is key. One of the grants awarded from the Cancer Charities Fund which I established in 2021 was given to Cancer Research UK for the delivery of a 3 year cancer awareness programme. The programme is currently being developed in partnership with NICaN and the Public Health Agency and the first phase will begin in the autumn.
Finally, PHA has commissioned the Northern Ireland Cancer Registry to undertake an audit of colorectal cancer care, looking at key standards of care. The results of that audit should be available later this month and should provide useful information in terms of those areas where we can further improve.
Despite this progress, we recognise there is more to do system wide. The HSC is under great pressure, with increasing demands on cancer diagnostics and more urgent referrals. Diagnosing and treating cancer early gives patients the best chance of surviving their cancer, but it depends heavily on having enough staff and funding in place to make this a reality. Ultimately, sustainable improvements in cancer wait times and survival will rely on sustainable investment in services and will depend on our ability to fund the Cancer Strategy (2022) and the Elective Care Framework (2022).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20369%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373838"}},{"id":"373759","reference":"AQW 310/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-20","answerBy":"2022-06-08","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any cross-departmental work she has overseen with the Department for Infrastructure to ensure that the planning system addresses housing need.","answerText":"I recently met with the newly appointed Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd\n\nMy officials continue to engage with Department for Infrastructure colleagues to explore how to unlock and prioritise planning for sites in key areas of social housing need.\n\nAlongside this I have led work to develop a fundamental Housing Supply Strategy which is aimed at identifying and unlocking major levers for increasing supply across all housing tenures.\n\nI recognise that the planning system is one of those levers that can address our housing supply issues and my officials have been engaged with DfI officials throughout the Strategy development process.","answerHtml":"I recently met with the newly appointed Infrastructure Minister John O'Dowd
My officials continue to engage with Department for Infrastructure colleagues to explore how to unlock and prioritise planning for sites in key areas of social housing need.
Alongside this I have led work to develop a fundamental Housing Supply Strategy which is aimed at identifying and unlocking major levers for increasing supply across all housing tenures.
I recognise that the planning system is one of those levers that can address our housing supply issues and my officials have been engaged with DfI officials throughout the Strategy development process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20310%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373759","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373759"}},{"id":"373754","reference":"AQW 305/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-20","answerBy":"2022-06-08","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the football training facilities at Portrush Football Club Youth’s Parker Avenue site; and (ii) to detail any conversations she has had with stakeholders at the club and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding facilitating improvements.","answerText":"My officials have engaged with a range of stakeholders, including Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, to identify the current and future needs for soccer facilities.","answerHtml":"My officials have engaged with a range of stakeholders, including Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, to identify the current and future needs for soccer facilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20305%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373754"}},{"id":"373753","reference":"AQW 304/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-20","answerBy":"2022-06-08","answered":"2022-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of rural crime levels; and (ii) to detail the efforts being made to prevent and prosecute offences.","answerText":"The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has primary responsibility for preventing and detecting rural crime in Northern Ireland. Rural crime covers a wide range of crime including theft of machinery, burglaries of isolated farms and livestock crime.\n\nThe PSNI issues regular updates on agriculture and rural crime statistics and trends. The latest report is available at Agriculture and Rural Crime in Northern Ireland Monthly Update 31st March 2022 (psni.police.uk). The is shows that from 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2022 there were 196 agricultural crimes recorded in Northern Ireland, a fall of 95 on the previous 12 months and continuing the downward trend since 2010/11.\n\nMy Department’s Welfare and Enforcement Branch (WEB) liaises very closely with the PSNI and the Department of Justice (DOH) who have primary responsibility for preventing and detecting rural crime in Northern Ireland. WEB represents DAERA on a number of strategic and operational rural crime prevention related groups.\n\nWEB is a founder member of the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP). Work on this partnership includes shared responsibility for delivery of the detailed RCP Rural Crime Action Plan which has strands covering Prevent & Protect; Partnership Working; and Enforcement.\n\nOfficials also work with the charity Crimestoppers to encourage reporting and ask the public to give information anonymously about rural crime across Northern Ireland.\n\nIn addition, my Department is a member of the operational cross-border multi-agency Rural Crime Taskforce which includes the PSNI, an Garda Síochána, Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, Revenue & Customs (RoI) and the Food Standards Agency. This taskforce targets, investigates and prosecutes serious rural crime, often with a cross border dimension including livestock theft and smuggling.","answerHtml":"The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has primary responsibility for preventing and detecting rural crime in Northern Ireland. Rural crime covers a wide range of crime including theft of machinery, burglaries of isolated farms and livestock crime.
The PSNI issues regular updates on agriculture and rural crime statistics and trends. The latest report is available at Agriculture and Rural Crime in Northern Ireland Monthly Update 31st March 2022 (psni.police.uk). The is shows that from 1st April 2021 to 31st March 2022 there were 196 agricultural crimes recorded in Northern Ireland, a fall of 95 on the previous 12 months and continuing the downward trend since 2010/11.
My Department’s Welfare and Enforcement Branch (WEB) liaises very closely with the PSNI and the Department of Justice (DOH) who have primary responsibility for preventing and detecting rural crime in Northern Ireland. WEB represents DAERA on a number of strategic and operational rural crime prevention related groups.
WEB is a founder member of the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP). Work on this partnership includes shared responsibility for delivery of the detailed RCP Rural Crime Action Plan which has strands covering Prevent & Protect; Partnership Working; and Enforcement.
Officials also work with the charity Crimestoppers to encourage reporting and ask the public to give information anonymously about rural crime across Northern Ireland.
In addition, my Department is a member of the operational cross-border multi-agency Rural Crime Taskforce which includes the PSNI, an Garda Síochána, Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, Revenue & Customs (RoI) and the Food Standards Agency. This taskforce targets, investigates and prosecutes serious rural crime, often with a cross border dimension including livestock theft and smuggling.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20304%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373753"}},{"id":"373752","reference":"AQW 303/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-20","answerBy":"2022-06-08","answered":"2022-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline what steps he is taking to improve the availability of skilled staff across all industries where need exists.","answerText":"My Department published the new Skills Strategy ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’ in March 2022 which focuses on three major policy objectives to boost the supply of skills that will be required to support our economic ambitions over the next decade, namely:\n\nAddressing skills imbalances, driving economic growth;\n\nCreating a culture of lifelong learning; and\n\nEnhancing digital skills, developing our digital spine.\n\nWhen complete, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’ will help ensure that Northern Ireland’s citizens and the business community have access to modern, economically relevant skills that will empower them to reach their full potential and improve our competitiveness on the global stage.\n\nThe establishment of the Skills Council provides a forum where stakeholders will discuss the key challenges and priorities for the skills system, providing strategic advice on the implementation of the Skills Strategy.\n\nCollaborative work between government Departments will be crucial, alongside engagement with local government to ensure the necessary support for individuals. My Department is working collaboratively developing labour market partnerships with the Department for Communities and enhancing digital skills and developing our digital spine with the Department of Education.\n\nThe Skills Strategy also highlights the need for a for a full review of investment in the skills system and recommends a ring-fenced skills fund to provide new opportunites in the labour market and and support skills development.\n\nAs an example of Departmental provision, in 2021/22, 53 Assured Skills academies were launched, including sixteen academies in the IT sector, nine in Financial Services, eleven in Business, one in Legal and sixteen in Manufacturing & Engineering. To date 43 academies have completed, resulting in 625 people being upskilled, and 552 of those gaining full time employment with participating companies.'","answerHtml":"My Department published the new Skills Strategy ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’ in March 2022 which focuses on three major policy objectives to boost the supply of skills that will be required to support our economic ambitions over the next decade, namely:
Addressing skills imbalances, driving economic growth;
Creating a culture of lifelong learning; and
Enhancing digital skills, developing our digital spine.
When complete, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’ will help ensure that Northern Ireland’s citizens and the business community have access to modern, economically relevant skills that will empower them to reach their full potential and improve our competitiveness on the global stage.
The establishment of the Skills Council provides a forum where stakeholders will discuss the key challenges and priorities for the skills system, providing strategic advice on the implementation of the Skills Strategy.
Collaborative work between government Departments will be crucial, alongside engagement with local government to ensure the necessary support for individuals. My Department is working collaboratively developing labour market partnerships with the Department for Communities and enhancing digital skills and developing our digital spine with the Department of Education.
The Skills Strategy also highlights the need for a for a full review of investment in the skills system and recommends a ring-fenced skills fund to provide new opportunites in the labour market and and support skills development.
As an example of Departmental provision, in 2021/22, 53 Assured Skills academies were launched, including sixteen academies in the IT sector, nine in Financial Services, eleven in Business, one in Legal and sixteen in Manufacturing & Engineering. To date 43 academies have completed, resulting in 625 people being upskilled, and 552 of those gaining full time employment with participating companies.'
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20303%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373752"}},{"id":"373750","reference":"AQW 301/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-20","answerBy":"2022-06-08","answered":"2022-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail what steps she is taking to enable pre-schools and nurseries in the voluntary and community sector to take in more children and operate to their full capacity; and (ii) for her assessment of how this sector can be best supported to cater to those parents and children who live long distances from the nearest statutory pre-school or nursery.","answerText":"It is my Department’s aim to provide one year of funded pre-school education for every child whose parents want it. Funded pre-school places are provided through the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP), and accessed via a preference based admissions process.\n\nThe Education Authority Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG) has responsibility for securing non-statutory pre-school education provision in local areas and operates within strict parameters in doing so, allocating sufficient funded places to meet the level of demand in local areas, whilst avoiding over provision which can lead to unnecessary costs and destabilise the pre-school education programme overall. All non-statutory settings are allocated places for one year at a time, and no setting is guaranteed a minimum allocation, or one that will accommodate all first preference applications. My Department plays no role in the making of operational decisions about the allocation or funding of non-statutory pre-school education places in local areas.\n\nThe EA PEG keeps the provision of funded places under constant review as the pre-school admissions process progresses and may contact non-statutory pre-school settings directly to allocate additional funded places should they identify a need, e.g. where there is a shortfall of provision in a local area. Non-statutory settings also have flexibility to offer additional services if they wish to do so, such as wrap-around and fee paying childcare provision should they choose to do so.\n\nAll funded pre-school settings follow the same curricular guidelines and are inspected to the same educational standards. When applying for a funded pre-school education place, parents are encouraged to apply for a range of pre-school settings they would be content for their child to attend in order to maximise their opportunity of being offered a funded place in a pre-school setting of their preference. It may reassure you to know that in each of the last seven years, at least 99.8% of parents who stayed with the admissions process to the end received the offer of a funded pre-school education place in a setting of their preference.","answerHtml":"It is my Department’s aim to provide one year of funded pre-school education for every child whose parents want it. Funded pre-school places are provided through the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP), and accessed via a preference based admissions process.
The Education Authority Pre-School Education Group (EA PEG) has responsibility for securing non-statutory pre-school education provision in local areas and operates within strict parameters in doing so, allocating sufficient funded places to meet the level of demand in local areas, whilst avoiding over provision which can lead to unnecessary costs and destabilise the pre-school education programme overall. All non-statutory settings are allocated places for one year at a time, and no setting is guaranteed a minimum allocation, or one that will accommodate all first preference applications. My Department plays no role in the making of operational decisions about the allocation or funding of non-statutory pre-school education places in local areas.
The EA PEG keeps the provision of funded places under constant review as the pre-school admissions process progresses and may contact non-statutory pre-school settings directly to allocate additional funded places should they identify a need, e.g. where there is a shortfall of provision in a local area. Non-statutory settings also have flexibility to offer additional services if they wish to do so, such as wrap-around and fee paying childcare provision should they choose to do so.
All funded pre-school settings follow the same curricular guidelines and are inspected to the same educational standards. When applying for a funded pre-school education place, parents are encouraged to apply for a range of pre-school settings they would be content for their child to attend in order to maximise their opportunity of being offered a funded place in a pre-school setting of their preference. It may reassure you to know that in each of the last seven years, at least 99.8% of parents who stayed with the admissions process to the end received the offer of a funded pre-school education place in a setting of their preference.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20301%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373750"}},{"id":"373586","reference":"AQW 173/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any work she has done to explore ways of releasing emergency support funding for people struggling to pay energy bills.","answerText":"I am deeply frustrated that the lack of a functioning Executive and agreed budget prevents measures being introduced.\n\nHowever, I am committed to continuing to support individuals, families and communities who are experiencing real hardship. To giving them the helping hand they need to heat their homes, to put a meal on the table.\n\nI am determined that my department will continue to deliver for all those who are in need.\n\nI have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all of the options.","answerHtml":"I am deeply frustrated that the lack of a functioning Executive and agreed budget prevents measures being introduced.
However, I am committed to continuing to support individuals, families and communities who are experiencing real hardship. To giving them the helping hand they need to heat their homes, to put a meal on the table.
I am determined that my department will continue to deliver for all those who are in need.
I have tasked my officials to fully explore and expedite all of the options.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20173%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373586","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373586"}},{"id":"373585","reference":"AQW 172/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the ways in which he will help farmers diversify their businesses in order to improve sustainability.","answerText":"My Department is designing a more tailored agricultural policy, which better meets the needs of Northern Ireland.\n\nWe have developed a Future Agricultural Policy Framework Portfolio that is based on four key outcomes of increased productivity, environmental sustainability, improved resilience and an effective functioning supply chain, alongside measured transition to new schemes.\n\nFollowing a period of public consultation, on 24 March, I announced 54 policy decisions on Future Agricultural Policy for Northern Ireland. These policy decisions will be followed as soon as possible with new policies and systems to ensure that we will have a future sustainable agricultural industry.","answerHtml":"My Department is designing a more tailored agricultural policy, which better meets the needs of Northern Ireland.
We have developed a Future Agricultural Policy Framework Portfolio that is based on four key outcomes of increased productivity, environmental sustainability, improved resilience and an effective functioning supply chain, alongside measured transition to new schemes.
Following a period of public consultation, on 24 March, I announced 54 policy decisions on Future Agricultural Policy for Northern Ireland. These policy decisions will be followed as soon as possible with new policies and systems to ensure that we will have a future sustainable agricultural industry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20172%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373585"}},{"id":"373584","reference":"AQW 171/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the ways in which he will improve business connectivity and infrastructure.","answerText":"Business infrastructure/connectivity is a complex landscape referring to a wide range of facilities and services including transport infrastructure, broadband, networking, business services, energy and technology. Project Stratum, funded under the DUP/Conservative Confidence and Supply Deal, represents a total investment of almost £200million that is transforming the broadband connectivity bringing gigabit capable service to 85,000 premises in rural areas right across Northern Ireland. Plans associated with Department’s rollout of future broadband connectivity initiatives, in line with UK Government policy, will be announced in the coming months. A strategic vision has been set out in the 10X Economic Vision that focuses on Northern Ireland’s strengths in priority technologies and clusters where we can be world leaders; investing in and supporting our people; diffusing innovation across our economy; taking a new approach to funding; and focusing and capitalising on what makes Northern Ireland unique.\n\nA series of announcements have been made including the NI City and Growth Deal programme will unlock £1.5billion of investment from the public and private sectors, £170million of funding for three cutting edge innovation projects at Queen’s University Belfast, a multimillion pound project focussing on creative industries, data analytics, robotics and digital health lead by Ulster University. Having produced an energy strategy, The Path to Net Zero, and associated 2022 Action Plan which sets out a vision to deliver self-sufficiency in affordable renewable energy for Northern Ireland. These actions will grow and evolve our local economy to the new and emerging challenges Northern Ireland faces.","answerHtml":"Business infrastructure/connectivity is a complex landscape referring to a wide range of facilities and services including transport infrastructure, broadband, networking, business services, energy and technology. Project Stratum, funded under the DUP/Conservative Confidence and Supply Deal, represents a total investment of almost £200million that is transforming the broadband connectivity bringing gigabit capable service to 85,000 premises in rural areas right across Northern Ireland. Plans associated with Department’s rollout of future broadband connectivity initiatives, in line with UK Government policy, will be announced in the coming months. A strategic vision has been set out in the 10X Economic Vision that focuses on Northern Ireland’s strengths in priority technologies and clusters where we can be world leaders; investing in and supporting our people; diffusing innovation across our economy; taking a new approach to funding; and focusing and capitalising on what makes Northern Ireland unique.
A series of announcements have been made including the NI City and Growth Deal programme will unlock £1.5billion of investment from the public and private sectors, £170million of funding for three cutting edge innovation projects at Queen’s University Belfast, a multimillion pound project focussing on creative industries, data analytics, robotics and digital health lead by Ulster University. Having produced an energy strategy, The Path to Net Zero, and associated 2022 Action Plan which sets out a vision to deliver self-sufficiency in affordable renewable energy for Northern Ireland. These actions will grow and evolve our local economy to the new and emerging challenges Northern Ireland faces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20171%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373584","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373584"}},{"id":"373583","reference":"AQW 170/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline his plans to create a banned offenders register to prevent people found to have committed acts of animal cruelty from owning or working with animals.","answerText":"Significant work has been taken forward by my Department to explore the feasibility of creating a register. Following extensive consideration of the relevant legal and financial considerations, establishing a publically accessible register is considered untenable.\n\nInstead, the Department is developing guidance which will encourage animal rehoming organisations to require prospective animal owners to disclose the results of Access NI checks before transferring ownership to them. This will ensure that these entities do not place animals with those convicted of animal cruelty offences.\n\nThe Department is also investigating whether there is potential to further enhance information sharing between animal welfare enforcement organisations and whether there is any way of augmenting the checks that are already carried out to ensure that there is compliance with court imposed bans on the owning or keeping of animals.","answerHtml":"Significant work has been taken forward by my Department to explore the feasibility of creating a register. Following extensive consideration of the relevant legal and financial considerations, establishing a publically accessible register is considered untenable.
Instead, the Department is developing guidance which will encourage animal rehoming organisations to require prospective animal owners to disclose the results of Access NI checks before transferring ownership to them. This will ensure that these entities do not place animals with those convicted of animal cruelty offences.
The Department is also investigating whether there is potential to further enhance information sharing between animal welfare enforcement organisations and whether there is any way of augmenting the checks that are already carried out to ensure that there is compliance with court imposed bans on the owning or keeping of animals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20170%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373583","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373583"}},{"id":"373582","reference":"AQW 169/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-18","answerBy":"2022-06-06","answered":"2022-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the efficacy of the Rural Needs Act; and (ii) to outline the cross-departmental work that is carried out when decisions are being made on (a) health care; (b) education; (c) childcare; and (d) transport in rural areas.","answerText":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 (the Act) aims to ensure that public authorities consider the particular needs of people in rural areas in their decision making processes and to increase transparency on how rural needs have been considered.\n\nThe Department published the 4th Rural Needs Annual Monitoring Report in December 2021 which contains information on how public authorities have had due regard to rural needs when exercising their functions. This report demonstrates that the Act is now embedded within public authorities and that public authorities are undertaking Rural Needs Impact Assessments routinely. The report also provides stakeholders with greater transparency on how public authorities have considered rural needs in their decision making processes.\n\nResponsibility for decisions on health care, education, childcare and transport in rural areas lies with the Minister in the department with statutory responsibility for the particular matter and the Rural Needs Impact Assessment process requires departments to takes steps to identify the needs of people in rural areas which are relevant to the decision and to give appropriate consideration to those needs in the decision making process. My Department continues to work with other public authorities to help ensure that the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 is implemented effectively.\n\nMy Department also works in partnership with other public authorities to deliver a range of measures under its Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework including the Farm Families Health Checks programme which is delivered in partnership with the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme which is delivered in partnership with the Department for Infrastructure and the Rural Community Transport Partnerships across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 (the Act) aims to ensure that public authorities consider the particular needs of people in rural areas in their decision making processes and to increase transparency on how rural needs have been considered.
The Department published the 4th Rural Needs Annual Monitoring Report in December 2021 which contains information on how public authorities have had due regard to rural needs when exercising their functions. This report demonstrates that the Act is now embedded within public authorities and that public authorities are undertaking Rural Needs Impact Assessments routinely. The report also provides stakeholders with greater transparency on how public authorities have considered rural needs in their decision making processes.
Responsibility for decisions on health care, education, childcare and transport in rural areas lies with the Minister in the department with statutory responsibility for the particular matter and the Rural Needs Impact Assessment process requires departments to takes steps to identify the needs of people in rural areas which are relevant to the decision and to give appropriate consideration to those needs in the decision making process. My Department continues to work with other public authorities to help ensure that the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 is implemented effectively.
My Department also works in partnership with other public authorities to deliver a range of measures under its Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework including the Farm Families Health Checks programme which is delivered in partnership with the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme which is delivered in partnership with the Department for Infrastructure and the Rural Community Transport Partnerships across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20169%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373582"}},{"id":"373483","reference":"AQW 76/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he has taken to improve care and outcomes for patients who have a brain injury.","answerText":"The Specialist Regional Acquired Brain Injury In-patient Unit (RABIU) is located at Musgrave Park Hospital and serves all of Northern Ireland. RABIU works closely with the Multi-disciplinary Brain Injury Teams within each of the five HSC Trusts to provide rehabilitation and support following a period of in-patient treatment.\n\nMy Department also holds contracts with community and voluntary sector organisations to provide ongoing support to people with an acquired brain injury.\n\nCurrently there are two regional contracts; one is to provide vocational training and support to people with an acquired brain injury and the other is to provide recreational support to people and their carers.\n\nMy Department has a close working relationship with all the main brain injury organisations in Northern Ireland who help to raise awareness of acquired brain injury. Recently, during acquired brain injury week from 9-15 May, a number of events were organised and videos posted on social media to raise awareness.\n\nIn addition, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) England is leading on the development of an Acquired Brain Injury Cross-Government Strategy. My Department and the HSC Trusts will respond to their call for evidence which closes on 6 June at 12.45pm. The call for evidence can be accessed via this link:\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/acquired-brain-injury-call-for-evidence","answerHtml":"The Specialist Regional Acquired Brain Injury In-patient Unit (RABIU) is located at Musgrave Park Hospital and serves all of Northern Ireland. RABIU works closely with the Multi-disciplinary Brain Injury Teams within each of the five HSC Trusts to provide rehabilitation and support following a period of in-patient treatment.
My Department also holds contracts with community and voluntary sector organisations to provide ongoing support to people with an acquired brain injury.
Currently there are two regional contracts; one is to provide vocational training and support to people with an acquired brain injury and the other is to provide recreational support to people and their carers.
My Department has a close working relationship with all the main brain injury organisations in Northern Ireland who help to raise awareness of acquired brain injury. Recently, during acquired brain injury week from 9-15 May, a number of events were organised and videos posted on social media to raise awareness.
In addition, the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) England is leading on the development of an Acquired Brain Injury Cross-Government Strategy. My Department and the HSC Trusts will respond to their call for evidence which closes on 6 June at 12.45pm. The call for evidence can be accessed via this link:
https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/acquired-brain-injury-call-for-evidence
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2076%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373483"}},{"id":"373482","reference":"AQW 75/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of volunteers in Northern Ireland, broken down by constituency; and (ii) the support she is giving, and plans to give, to assist these volunteers.","answerText":"Using the data gathered in the continuous Household Survey 2019/20, my Department has concluded that approximately 28% of the population aged sixteen and over regularly volunteer. In addition a further survey completed in 2019 showed that 49% young people had volunteered with clubs, campaigns or organisations.\n\nWhile unable to provide a breakdown of volunteers at a constituency level the table below provides a percentage of the adult population aged sixteen and over who volunteered within each council area during the year 2019/20.\n\nDistrict Council Area\tCarried out any voluntary work - 12 months 2019/20\n%\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t32\nArds and North Down\t39\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon\t27\nBelfast City\t24\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t20\nDerry City and Strabane\t36\nFermanagh and Omagh\t27\nLisburn and Castlereagh City\t31\nMid and East Antrim\t32\nMid Ulster\t28\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t21\n\nThe Department provides funding to six local Volunteer Centres and to Volunteer Now under the Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme.\n\nThe Department also provides funding to three sporting bodies – Ulster Gaelic Athletic Association, Irish Rugby Football Union, Ulster Branch, and the Irish Football Association to work in partnership to support volunteering through sport.","answerHtml":"Using the data gathered in the continuous Household Survey 2019/20, my Department has concluded that approximately 28% of the population aged sixteen and over regularly volunteer. In addition a further survey completed in 2019 showed that 49% young people had volunteered with clubs, campaigns or organisations.
While unable to provide a breakdown of volunteers at a constituency level the table below provides a percentage of the adult population aged sixteen and over who volunteered within each council area during the year 2019/20.
| District Council Area | Carried out any voluntary work - 12 months 2019/20 |
| % | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 32 |
| Ards and North Down | 39 |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon | 27 |
| Belfast City | 24 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 20 |
| Derry City and Strabane | 36 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 27 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh City | 31 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 32 |
| Mid Ulster | 28 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 21 |
The Department provides funding to six local Volunteer Centres and to Volunteer Now under the Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme.
The Department also provides funding to three sporting bodies – Ulster Gaelic Athletic Association, Irish Rugby Football Union, Ulster Branch, and the Irish Football Association to work in partnership to support volunteering through sport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2075%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373482"}},{"id":"373480","reference":"AQW 73/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the number of foster carers, broken down by constituency in each of the last five years; and (ii) for his assessment of the trend of the prevalence of foster carers.","answerText":"The number of foster carers in Northern Ireland is routinely collected at Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust level only; therefore, to obtain this information by constituency would be at a disproportionate cost. The number of foster carers in Northern Ireland, by HSC Trust, is set out in Table 1.\n\nTable 1: Number of foster carers in Northern Ireland by HSC Trust (2017-2021)\n\nHSC Trust\tYear ending 31 March\n2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021\nBelfast\t403\t449\t482\t472\t572\nNorthern\t483\t444\t467\t465\t485\nSouth Eastern\t302\t311\t388\t383\t334\nSouthern\t380\t417\t438\t420\t474\nWestern\t431\t468\t517\t479\t563\nNorthern Ireland\t1,999\t2,089\t2,292\t2,219\t2,428\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Board, Delegated Statutory Function/Corporate Parenting Returns.\n\nThe data in Table 1 refers to kinship and non-kinship foster carers who have been approved by a panel, as well as specialist fee-paid foster carers. In addition, at 31 March 2021 there were 211 foster carers who had been approved by independent foster agencies; 45 specialist foster carers who provide care only to children with a disability; and 212 carers who were undergoing a process of being assessed as kinship carers.\n\n(ii) At 31 March 2021, there were 3,530 children in care, of whom 2,857 (81%) were in foster care. From 31 March 2017 to 31 March 2021, the number of children in care increased by 18%. Over the same period, the number of HSC Trust-approved foster carers increased by 21%. Although it may seem that the number of foster carers is keeping pace with the number of children who require to be cared for, it is notable that—while the number of kinship carers has increased by 46% between March 2017 and March 2021—the number of non-kinship foster carers has increased by only 8% over the same period.\n\nIt is essential that the Health and Social Care system continues to provide support to existing carers and encourage much-needed new carers to come forward. Efforts to recruit and retain foster carers are led by the regional HSCNI Adoption and Foster Care service. In addition to ongoing recruitment activity throughout the year, my Department has also lent support to a number of targeted campaigns, most recently an appeal for foster carers and supported lodgings hosts for young refugees. In addition, to help support foster carers and sustain foster placements, £1.39m of Departmental funding was made available to foster carers over two 12 week periods in 2020/21. In March this year, I also announced an additional support package for foster carers; this was backdated to cover a 12 week period from January 2022 to March 2022.","answerHtml":"The number of foster carers in Northern Ireland is routinely collected at Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust level only; therefore, to obtain this information by constituency would be at a disproportionate cost. The number of foster carers in Northern Ireland, by HSC Trust, is set out in Table 1.
Table 1: Number of foster carers in Northern Ireland by HSC Trust (2017-2021)
| HSC Trust | Year ending 31 March | ||||
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |
| Belfast | 403 | 449 | 482 | 472 | 572 |
| Northern | 483 | 444 | 467 | 465 | 485 |
| South Eastern | 302 | 311 | 388 | 383 | 334 |
| Southern | 380 | 417 | 438 | 420 | 474 |
| Western | 431 | 468 | 517 | 479 | 563 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,999 | 2,089 | 2,292 | 2,219 | 2,428 |
Source: Health and Social Care Board, Delegated Statutory Function/Corporate Parenting Returns.
The data in Table 1 refers to kinship and non-kinship foster carers who have been approved by a panel, as well as specialist fee-paid foster carers. In addition, at 31 March 2021 there were 211 foster carers who had been approved by independent foster agencies; 45 specialist foster carers who provide care only to children with a disability; and 212 carers who were undergoing a process of being assessed as kinship carers.
(ii) At 31 March 2021, there were 3,530 children in care, of whom 2,857 (81%) were in foster care. From 31 March 2017 to 31 March 2021, the number of children in care increased by 18%. Over the same period, the number of HSC Trust-approved foster carers increased by 21%. Although it may seem that the number of foster carers is keeping pace with the number of children who require to be cared for, it is notable that—while the number of kinship carers has increased by 46% between March 2017 and March 2021—the number of non-kinship foster carers has increased by only 8% over the same period.
It is essential that the Health and Social Care system continues to provide support to existing carers and encourage much-needed new carers to come forward. Efforts to recruit and retain foster carers are led by the regional HSCNI Adoption and Foster Care service. In addition to ongoing recruitment activity throughout the year, my Department has also lent support to a number of targeted campaigns, most recently an appeal for foster carers and supported lodgings hosts for young refugees. In addition, to help support foster carers and sustain foster placements, £1.39m of Departmental funding was made available to foster carers over two 12 week periods in 2020/21. In March this year, I also announced an additional support package for foster carers; this was backdated to cover a 12 week period from January 2022 to March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2073%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373480"}},{"id":"373479","reference":"AQW 72/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps she is taking to tackle the current housing crisis, particularly in areas of East Londonderry.","answerText":"I refer you to the response to AQW 15816/17-22.","answerHtml":"I refer you to the response to AQW 15816/17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2072%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373479"}},{"id":"373478","reference":"AQW 71/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-17","answerBy":"2022-06-01","answered":"2022-05-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on efforts to provide timely MOT testing slots to motorists in need of one; and (ii) to detail the number of motorists currently driving with expired MOTs.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.\n\nOfficial vehicle testing statistics are published on a monthly basis and can be accessed at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/driver-and-vehicle-agency-monthly-tests-conducted-statistics.\n\nThe DVA continues to experience significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location. The DVA releases vehicle test appointments on a daily basis and customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available. The DVA does not currently hold information to enable it to accurately report on the number of motorists currently driving with expired MOTs.\n\nThe latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and by offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, when testing is not normally available.
Official vehicle testing statistics are published on a monthly basis and can be accessed at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/driver-and-vehicle-agency-monthly-tests-conducted-statistics.
The DVA continues to experience significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to have their vehicles tested before their current MOT certificate expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location. The DVA releases vehicle test appointments on a daily basis and customers are encouraged to regularly check the booking system as they may be able to change their existing appointment to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available. The DVA does not currently hold information to enable it to accurately report on the number of motorists currently driving with expired MOTs.
The latest information on MOTs is available on NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/book-view-change-or-cancel-mot-vehicle-test and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to their customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2071%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373478","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373478"}},{"id":"373441","reference":"AQW 35/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-16","answerBy":"2022-05-31","answered":"2022-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) what advice can he offer to people with rising energy costs, including electricity; (ii) what steps he is taking to mitigate these costs; (iii) to outline the process for people who cannot afford to pay their energy bills; and (iv) what conversations has he had with energy companies to provide support to their customers.","answerText":"Significant increases and ongoing volatility in international wholesale fuel prices witnessed across the globe have continued to impact negatively on our electricity and gas markets. Directly impacting consumers across Northern Ireland, these high prices are forecast to continue for some time with further increases a real possibility.\n\nI would encourage any customer that is struggling to pay their energy bill, or is in debt, to contact their supplier for help.\n\nThrough their regulated licence conditions, energy suppliers should support their customers by working with them to develop a manageable repayment plan; providing additional protection to consumers who are of pensionable age, disabled or chronically ill; and providing energy efficiency advice which may reduce their usage and therefore their overall bill.\n\nThe Department for Communities (DfC) has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations that may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs. There are a number of government support schemes and independent advice agencies that can provide consumers with additional help. This information can be found on NI Direct.\n\nThe Utility Regulator (UR) is responsible for regulating gas tariffs charged by the dominant suppliers in the Greater Belfast and Ten Towns license areas and also the largest electricity supplier in Northern Ireland. The UR scrutinises the energy supplier submissions in relation to price changes and ensures that customers pay no more than the efficient costs of purchasing and supplying the energy plus an agreed profit margin set by the UR. The Department has an oversight role in this process.\n\nThe new Energy Strategy sets out the intention to introduce minimum standards for the energy efficiency of buildings and to substantially increase funding and support for retrofitting buildings. This will help consumers make changes that reduce their energy use and subsequently the amount they need to spend on energy. I am also planning to have a round table meeting with energy companies in the coming weeks to discuss rising energy prices for domestic consumers in the context of affordability issues leading into next winter.","answerHtml":"Significant increases and ongoing volatility in international wholesale fuel prices witnessed across the globe have continued to impact negatively on our electricity and gas markets. Directly impacting consumers across Northern Ireland, these high prices are forecast to continue for some time with further increases a real possibility.
I would encourage any customer that is struggling to pay their energy bill, or is in debt, to contact their supplier for help.
Through their regulated licence conditions, energy suppliers should support their customers by working with them to develop a manageable repayment plan; providing additional protection to consumers who are of pensionable age, disabled or chronically ill; and providing energy efficiency advice which may reduce their usage and therefore their overall bill.
The Department for Communities (DfC) has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations that may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs. There are a number of government support schemes and independent advice agencies that can provide consumers with additional help. This information can be found on NI Direct.
The Utility Regulator (UR) is responsible for regulating gas tariffs charged by the dominant suppliers in the Greater Belfast and Ten Towns license areas and also the largest electricity supplier in Northern Ireland. The UR scrutinises the energy supplier submissions in relation to price changes and ensures that customers pay no more than the efficient costs of purchasing and supplying the energy plus an agreed profit margin set by the UR. The Department has an oversight role in this process.
The new Energy Strategy sets out the intention to introduce minimum standards for the energy efficiency of buildings and to substantially increase funding and support for retrofitting buildings. This will help consumers make changes that reduce their energy use and subsequently the amount they need to spend on energy. I am also planning to have a round table meeting with energy companies in the coming weeks to discuss rising energy prices for domestic consumers in the context of affordability issues leading into next winter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373441"}},{"id":"373435","reference":"AQW 29/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-16","answerBy":"2022-05-31","answered":"2022-05-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail the current debt levels of schools across Northern Ireland; and (ii) to outline the current policy on schools taking on debt.","answerText":"As at 31 March 2021, being the latest date for which finalised data is available, the value of accumulated deficits held by Controlled and Maintained schools was £87.3 million (across 478 schools). Similar data is not available for Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools, as these schools are separate bodies and their financial positions are reported in the individual schools’ annual accounts.\n\nThe level of schools’ accumulated deficits evidences the long-term funding squeeze on the education budget, which reduced by £229m (12%) in real terms between 2009-10 and 2019-20. £148.4m of additional funding for the schools’ delegated budget across the 2020-21 and 2021-22 financial years was secured. Despite this welcome increase in schools funding, a gap clearly remains. It should also be noted that this funding shortfall is against a backdrop of a 7% increase in pupil numbers.\n\nWithout further significant additional funding, the budget positon for our schools will continue to be extremely challenging due to the substantial cost and demand pressures which the sector now faces.\n\n(ii) Guidance on Financial and Management Arrangements for Controlled and Maintained Schools Funded Under the Common Funding Scheme outlines the policy on Controlled and Maintained schools going into deficit. These schools must seek permission from the Education Authority (EA) prior to incurring a deficit. In relation to Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools, these schools must engage with the Department and obtain permission before entering into any long-term loan arrangements.","answerHtml":"As at 31 March 2021, being the latest date for which finalised data is available, the value of accumulated deficits held by Controlled and Maintained schools was £87.3 million (across 478 schools). Similar data is not available for Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools, as these schools are separate bodies and their financial positions are reported in the individual schools’ annual accounts.
The level of schools’ accumulated deficits evidences the long-term funding squeeze on the education budget, which reduced by £229m (12%) in real terms between 2009-10 and 2019-20. £148.4m of additional funding for the schools’ delegated budget across the 2020-21 and 2021-22 financial years was secured. Despite this welcome increase in schools funding, a gap clearly remains. It should also be noted that this funding shortfall is against a backdrop of a 7% increase in pupil numbers.
Without further significant additional funding, the budget positon for our schools will continue to be extremely challenging due to the substantial cost and demand pressures which the sector now faces.
(ii) Guidance on Financial and Management Arrangements for Controlled and Maintained Schools Funded Under the Common Funding Scheme outlines the policy on Controlled and Maintained schools going into deficit. These schools must seek permission from the Education Authority (EA) prior to incurring a deficit. In relation to Voluntary Grammar and Grant Maintained Integrated schools, these schools must engage with the Department and obtain permission before entering into any long-term loan arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373435","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373435"}},{"id":"373434","reference":"AQW 28/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-16","answerBy":"2022-05-31","answered":"2022-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail what steps are being made to use digital technology to mitigate the disruption to learning caused by temporary school closures as a result of staff absences.","answerText":"School is clearly the most appropriate setting for our children and young people to learn and they benefit most from face to face teaching in the classroom. While the scale of staff absences due to COVID 19 had placed significant pressure on schools to maintain face-to-face teaching, remote learning ensured that our children and young people were able to continue with their education. Remote learning is now only being implemented in exceptional circumstances.\n\nMy Department carries out a weekly survey to assess the level of remote learning, and from the responses received each week, it is encouraging to note that the percentage of schools using remote learning has reduced from 50% in January to 7.34% in week commencing 16 May.\n\nThroughout the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department made a significant investment in the provision of digital technology and IT equipment to enhance remote learning. Almost 25,000 new devices were procured and provided to schools to support, in particular, our most disadvantaged and vulnerable learners.\n\nSchools were informed by the Education Authority (EA) that they could retain these devices for the 2021/22 academic year to provide continued support to disadvantaged and vulnerable children. My Department also invested £1 million during 2021/22 to purchase digital devices for children from more disadvantaged backgrounds. This has been used by the EA to purchase 1,400 iPads, 1,400 Chromebooks and 1,400 Windows Laptops. This investment will continue during the current and future financial years. This significant and ongoing investment will ensure children from poorer backgrounds have improved access to digital devices.\n\nThrough C2k, the EA delivers a comprehensive range of digital tools to support teaching and learning. Platforms such as G Suite, MS Teams and Collaborate Ultra are readily available to support learning. As part of the Continuity of Learning programme, additional training was provided to teachers in relation to both the functionality of the platforms and how they are used to improve learning and teaching.\n\nSince 2020, £7m has been allocated to provide devices, enhance broadband, upgrade existing platforms on C2k and procure new applications, including applications to support communications between school and home.","answerHtml":"School is clearly the most appropriate setting for our children and young people to learn and they benefit most from face to face teaching in the classroom. While the scale of staff absences due to COVID 19 had placed significant pressure on schools to maintain face-to-face teaching, remote learning ensured that our children and young people were able to continue with their education. Remote learning is now only being implemented in exceptional circumstances.
My Department carries out a weekly survey to assess the level of remote learning, and from the responses received each week, it is encouraging to note that the percentage of schools using remote learning has reduced from 50% in January to 7.34% in week commencing 16 May.
Throughout the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department made a significant investment in the provision of digital technology and IT equipment to enhance remote learning. Almost 25,000 new devices were procured and provided to schools to support, in particular, our most disadvantaged and vulnerable learners.
Schools were informed by the Education Authority (EA) that they could retain these devices for the 2021/22 academic year to provide continued support to disadvantaged and vulnerable children. My Department also invested £1 million during 2021/22 to purchase digital devices for children from more disadvantaged backgrounds. This has been used by the EA to purchase 1,400 iPads, 1,400 Chromebooks and 1,400 Windows Laptops. This investment will continue during the current and future financial years. This significant and ongoing investment will ensure children from poorer backgrounds have improved access to digital devices.
Through C2k, the EA delivers a comprehensive range of digital tools to support teaching and learning. Platforms such as G Suite, MS Teams and Collaborate Ultra are readily available to support learning. As part of the Continuity of Learning programme, additional training was provided to teachers in relation to both the functionality of the platforms and how they are used to improve learning and teaching.
Since 2020, £7m has been allocated to provide devices, enhance broadband, upgrade existing platforms on C2k and procure new applications, including applications to support communications between school and home.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373434"}},{"id":"373433","reference":"AQW 27/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-16","answerBy":"2022-05-19","answered":"2022-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the issues that have caused the delay to phase two of the £500 COVID recognition payment for health and social care workers; and (ii) for an update on when these workers will receive this payment.","answerText":"Phase 2 had been temporarily paused to allow officials to seek clarity on a number of issues raised relating to the impact of the increase in national insurance contributions which are included as part of the payment provided to the former employer.\n\nA further letter was issued to employers on 14 April providing clarity on the issues raised and confirming recommencement of the payment process. Claims are being processed by BSO in date order when all relevant information is provided by the claimants. No date has been set for the closure of the scheme and claims will continue to be processed by the Business Services Organisation during 2022/23 therefore I am not in a position to provide a date as to when all payments will be made.\n\nI can confirm that as at 11 May 2022, a total of over £16.6m has been paid out under Phase 1 to independent sector care home and domiciliary care providers covering 28,314 individuals. As at the same date £2.1m has been paid out to 5,027 individuals under Phase 2; these payments include staff previously employed in independent sector care home and domiciliary care providers who have since moved employer or left the sector, and staff employed with eligible day opportunity providers and buildings-based day services.\n\nIn addition we have also opened the Scheme to eligible applicants in the following groups, Personal Assistants employed by Independent Living Fund recipients, Thalidomide Health Grant recipients, and Personal Assistants employed by those in receipt of Direct Payments from HSC Trusts. This element of the scheme was launched on 23 March and is being delivered by ILF Scotland for the payments, Scotland Excel who set up and run the online portal, and SDS Scotland who manage the dedicated helpline. These delivery partners were heavily involved in delivering the equivalent scheme for the Scottish Government. To date £300k has been paid to 863 individuals. To encourage uptake on this element Trusts have now written to all individuals in receipt of direct payments.\n\nMy officials are also finalising arrangements to include eligible staff whose employers are no longer trading and I hope to be in a position to include this cohort of individuals in the coming weeks.\n\nA FAQ on the Special Recognition Payment has been published on the Department’s website as below:-\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs\n\nThis continues to be updated with relevant information as each phase of the claims process progresses.\n\nI remain personally committed to ensuring the recognition payment will be paid to independent sector staff as soon as it is practicable.","answerHtml":"Phase 2 had been temporarily paused to allow officials to seek clarity on a number of issues raised relating to the impact of the increase in national insurance contributions which are included as part of the payment provided to the former employer.
A further letter was issued to employers on 14 April providing clarity on the issues raised and confirming recommencement of the payment process. Claims are being processed by BSO in date order when all relevant information is provided by the claimants. No date has been set for the closure of the scheme and claims will continue to be processed by the Business Services Organisation during 2022/23 therefore I am not in a position to provide a date as to when all payments will be made.
I can confirm that as at 11 May 2022, a total of over £16.6m has been paid out under Phase 1 to independent sector care home and domiciliary care providers covering 28,314 individuals. As at the same date £2.1m has been paid out to 5,027 individuals under Phase 2; these payments include staff previously employed in independent sector care home and domiciliary care providers who have since moved employer or left the sector, and staff employed with eligible day opportunity providers and buildings-based day services.
In addition we have also opened the Scheme to eligible applicants in the following groups, Personal Assistants employed by Independent Living Fund recipients, Thalidomide Health Grant recipients, and Personal Assistants employed by those in receipt of Direct Payments from HSC Trusts. This element of the scheme was launched on 23 March and is being delivered by ILF Scotland for the payments, Scotland Excel who set up and run the online portal, and SDS Scotland who manage the dedicated helpline. These delivery partners were heavily involved in delivering the equivalent scheme for the Scottish Government. To date £300k has been paid to 863 individuals. To encourage uptake on this element Trusts have now written to all individuals in receipt of direct payments.
My officials are also finalising arrangements to include eligible staff whose employers are no longer trading and I hope to be in a position to include this cohort of individuals in the coming weeks.
A FAQ on the Special Recognition Payment has been published on the Department’s website as below:-
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
This continues to be updated with relevant information as each phase of the claims process progresses.
I remain personally committed to ensuring the recognition payment will be paid to independent sector staff as soon as it is practicable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373433"}},{"id":"373424","reference":"AQW 18/22-27","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"22-27","tabled":"2022-05-16","answerBy":"2022-05-31","answered":"2022-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of whether pupil numbers are expected to increase in the coming years; and (ii) how this forecast aligns with current and planned school closures.","answerText":"(i) My Department produces school population projections each year and these estimate that pupil numbers are expected to decrease by 2030/31. These projections are guided by birth and population projections produced by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency as well as input from Policy Branches within the Department of Education.\n\n(ii) Planning of education provision is a matter for the Education Authority in liaison with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools and representatives of the other school sectors. My Department is engaged in this process only at the point where a Development Proposal (DP) is published. The Sustainable Schools Policy describes various solutions available, to be explored with a view to ensuring there is a viable and sustainable level of quality educational provision in an area. While closure may be the only realistic option to ensure that the educational interests of children are addressed in a sustainable setting, I have set out my expectation in a written statement to the Assembly that the planning authorities will develop planning options and bring forward innovative, shared and creative solutions that provide sustainable provision in communities.\n\nA full list of published DPs currently under consideration by my Department is accessible at the following link: Current development proposals | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk)\n\nMy written statement to the Assembly is accessible at: Written Ministerial Statement - Setting the Priorities for the Next Regi....pdf (education-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"(i) My Department produces school population projections each year and these estimate that pupil numbers are expected to decrease by 2030/31. These projections are guided by birth and population projections produced by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency as well as input from Policy Branches within the Department of Education.
(ii) Planning of education provision is a matter for the Education Authority in liaison with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools and representatives of the other school sectors. My Department is engaged in this process only at the point where a Development Proposal (DP) is published. The Sustainable Schools Policy describes various solutions available, to be explored with a view to ensuring there is a viable and sustainable level of quality educational provision in an area. While closure may be the only realistic option to ensure that the educational interests of children are addressed in a sustainable setting, I have set out my expectation in a written statement to the Assembly that the planning authorities will develop planning options and bring forward innovative, shared and creative solutions that provide sustainable provision in communities.
A full list of published DPs currently under consideration by my Department is accessible at the following link: Current development proposals | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk)
My written statement to the Assembly is accessible at: Written Ministerial Statement - Setting the Priorities for the Next Regi....pdf (education-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018%2F22-27","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=373424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=373424"}},{"id":"372875","reference":"AQW 31197/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-25","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the planned improvements to Magilligan Prison.","answerText":"An Outline Business Case (OBC) 1 for the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison will be submitted to DoF within the next few weeks. The proposals in the OBC will reflect the delivery model from the Estates 2020 discussion document, launched in December 2018 ie a 240 Accommodation Block, Independent Living Units (ILUs), a new Welcome & Visits Centre and a new Admin block.","answerHtml":"An Outline Business Case (OBC) 1 for the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison will be submitted to DoF within the next few weeks. The proposals in the OBC will reflect the delivery model from the Estates 2020 discussion document, launched in December 2018 ie a 240 Accommodation Block, Independent Living Units (ILUs), a new Welcome & Visits Centre and a new Admin block.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031197%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372875"}},{"id":"372873","reference":"AQW 31195/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-25","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the major works planned by her Department in East Londonderry.","answerText":"I only received the member’s question at 3pm on the Friday before dissolution of the NI Assembly. My officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time available.","answerHtml":"I only received the member’s question at 3pm on the Friday before dissolution of the NI Assembly. My officials were unable to gather together the information sought by the member in the short amount of time available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031195%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372873"}},{"id":"372788","reference":"AQW 31175/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-24","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to ensure adequate provision of dental care in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impact on capacity within GDS, with dentists currently delivering less than their pre-pandemic activity. To ensure that this more limited capacity is targeted appropriately, dentists are asked to prioritise patients requiring emergency or urgent care. This may mean that in some cases, patients will have to wait longer for routine examinations and treatment.\n\nRecent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings, along with the introduction of the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS) in April 2022 is anticipated to increase capacity within practices resulting in improved access. The HSCB are also currently scoping other avenues to increase the availability of appointments for non-registered patients. In the meantime, the Urgent Dental Care Centres continue to provide cover for patients with dental emergencies who cannot be seen in practice. Patient registration timeframes have also been extended since the beginning of the pandemic to ensure that patients registration status is unaffected by any difficulties encountered in attending.\n\nA £5m Revenue Grant Scheme was launched on 27 January 2022 for dental practices to support the cost of improving and increasing their delivery of General Dental Services. This funding is designed to improve patient safety, practice efficiency and improve the resilience of practices in order to mitigate against future transmission of aerosol based respiratory diseases, and other infectious diseases.","answerHtml":"The COVID-19 pandemic has had significant impact on capacity within GDS, with dentists currently delivering less than their pre-pandemic activity. To ensure that this more limited capacity is targeted appropriately, dentists are asked to prioritise patients requiring emergency or urgent care. This may mean that in some cases, patients will have to wait longer for routine examinations and treatment.
Recent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings, along with the introduction of the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS) in April 2022 is anticipated to increase capacity within practices resulting in improved access. The HSCB are also currently scoping other avenues to increase the availability of appointments for non-registered patients. In the meantime, the Urgent Dental Care Centres continue to provide cover for patients with dental emergencies who cannot be seen in practice. Patient registration timeframes have also been extended since the beginning of the pandemic to ensure that patients registration status is unaffected by any difficulties encountered in attending.
A £5m Revenue Grant Scheme was launched on 27 January 2022 for dental practices to support the cost of improving and increasing their delivery of General Dental Services. This funding is designed to improve patient safety, practice efficiency and improve the resilience of practices in order to mitigate against future transmission of aerosol based respiratory diseases, and other infectious diseases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031175%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372788"}},{"id":"372787","reference":"AQW 31174/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-24","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what plans she has to improve rural transport in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Since coming into office, I have been clear that it is my priority to address regional imbalance, tackle the climate crisis and better connect communities across Ireland. I am committed to improving transport connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across the North.\n\nOur rail network, whilst relatively small, does present a unique opportunity to improve the sustainability of the Department’s transport operations and so help address climate change.\n\nIn 2020, I ring fenced funding to get Phase 3 of the Coleraine to Derry rail line back on track. The core objective of the Coleraine to Derry Phase 3 renewals project is to deliver a fully renewed permanent way asset of over 20 miles of track between Castlerock and Eglinton. In conjunction with the proposed signalling changes, this will facilitate an increase in the current permanent speed restriction from 70mph to 90mph over most of the route. Translink has now submitted the Economic Appraisal for the project and this is currently being considered.\n\nIn addition Translink is currently conducting a feasibility study to consider the opportunity to include additional passing loops at Strathfoyle, Eglinton/City of Derry Airport and Ballykelly with a view to a half hourly service between Derry and Belfast. ,\n\nIn partnership with my counterpart in the Irish Department for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, we announced in April 2021 a joint All-Island Strategic Rail Review to look into improving rail connectivity between major cities, and extending accessibility. This is an ambitious piece of work that will help inform our decision making and investment in our rail network for years to come, and will explore the opportunities to better connect communities not just in East Derry but much further afield and will open up opportunities for our island economy. It is anticipated that the review will be completed by the end of 2022.\n\nOfficials are currently developing a new suite of transport plans. The Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan (RSTNTP) is the first in line for completion, which will set out future investment for our strategic transport networks, by road, rail and bus. The Plans will reflect the Minister’s commitment to improving connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across the North. The RSTNTP will be subject to public consultation and I will be pleased to consider representations on suggestions to improve strategic transport in East Derry as part of this consultation.","answerHtml":"Since coming into office, I have been clear that it is my priority to address regional imbalance, tackle the climate crisis and better connect communities across Ireland. I am committed to improving transport connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across the North.
Our rail network, whilst relatively small, does present a unique opportunity to improve the sustainability of the Department’s transport operations and so help address climate change.
In 2020, I ring fenced funding to get Phase 3 of the Coleraine to Derry rail line back on track. The core objective of the Coleraine to Derry Phase 3 renewals project is to deliver a fully renewed permanent way asset of over 20 miles of track between Castlerock and Eglinton. In conjunction with the proposed signalling changes, this will facilitate an increase in the current permanent speed restriction from 70mph to 90mph over most of the route. Translink has now submitted the Economic Appraisal for the project and this is currently being considered.
In addition Translink is currently conducting a feasibility study to consider the opportunity to include additional passing loops at Strathfoyle, Eglinton/City of Derry Airport and Ballykelly with a view to a half hourly service between Derry and Belfast. ,
In partnership with my counterpart in the Irish Department for Transport, Eamon Ryan TD, we announced in April 2021 a joint All-Island Strategic Rail Review to look into improving rail connectivity between major cities, and extending accessibility. This is an ambitious piece of work that will help inform our decision making and investment in our rail network for years to come, and will explore the opportunities to better connect communities not just in East Derry but much further afield and will open up opportunities for our island economy. It is anticipated that the review will be completed by the end of 2022.
Officials are currently developing a new suite of transport plans. The Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan (RSTNTP) is the first in line for completion, which will set out future investment for our strategic transport networks, by road, rail and bus. The Plans will reflect the Minister’s commitment to improving connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across the North. The RSTNTP will be subject to public consultation and I will be pleased to consider representations on suggestions to improve strategic transport in East Derry as part of this consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031174%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372787"}},{"id":"372657","reference":"AQW 31151/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-23","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount of funding delivered to voluntary and community mental health projects in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department provides core funding of £507k per annum for 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations. These organisations are regional and not specific to East Londonderry, although they do offer services to the area.\n\nThis funding has been in place over the period of the last five years, with the exception of 2020/2021 where I made the decision to increase the core grants by 25% for one year. This resulted in £632k being made available for the 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations.\n\nIn April 2021, I announced a new £10m Mental Health Support Fund for charitable and community organisations offering support to people with mental ill health throughout all of Northern Ireland. Recognising the significant demand, I was pleased to allocate an additional £6.02m to the Fund in February 2022. A full list of the successful applicants to the Fund, together with the amounts awarded to them, can be found via the following links:\n\nMental Health Support Fund Round 1 Successful Applicants\n\nMental Health Support Fund Additional Funding and Successful Applicants\n\nIt should be noted that while organisations may be located in certain constituency areas, many of the funded projects offer services across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department provides core funding of £507k per annum for 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations. These organisations are regional and not specific to East Londonderry, although they do offer services to the area.
This funding has been in place over the period of the last five years, with the exception of 2020/2021 where I made the decision to increase the core grants by 25% for one year. This resulted in £632k being made available for the 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations.
In April 2021, I announced a new £10m Mental Health Support Fund for charitable and community organisations offering support to people with mental ill health throughout all of Northern Ireland. Recognising the significant demand, I was pleased to allocate an additional £6.02m to the Fund in February 2022. A full list of the successful applicants to the Fund, together with the amounts awarded to them, can be found via the following links:
Mental Health Support Fund Round 1 Successful Applicants
Mental Health Support Fund Additional Funding and Successful Applicants
It should be noted that while organisations may be located in certain constituency areas, many of the funded projects offer services across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031151%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372657"}},{"id":"372656","reference":"AQW 31150/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-23","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount of funding provided to voluntary and community projects in East Londonderry dealing specifically with trauma, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department provides core funding of £507k per annum for 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations. These organisations are regional and not specific to East Londonderry, although they do offer services to the area.\n\nThis funding has been in place over the period of the last five years, with the exception of 2020/2021 where I made the decision to increase the core grants by 25% for one year. This resulted in £632k being made available for the 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations.\n\nIn April 2021, I announced a new £10m Mental Health Support Fund for charitable and community organisations offering support to people with mental ill health throughout all of Northern Ireland. Recognising the significant demand, I was pleased to allocate an additional £6.02m to the Fund in February 2022. A full list of the successful applicants to the Fund, together with the amounts awarded to them, can be found via the following links:\n\nMental Health Support Fund Round 1 Successful Applicants\n\nMental Health Support Fund Additional Funding and Successful Applicants\n\nIt should be noted that while organisations may be located in certain constituency areas, many of the funded projects offer services across Northern Ireland.\n\nGiven the range of services offered by the funded voluntary and community mental health organisations, it is not possible to determine which projects deal specifically with trauma related mental illnesses.","answerHtml":"My Department provides core funding of £507k per annum for 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations. These organisations are regional and not specific to East Londonderry, although they do offer services to the area.
This funding has been in place over the period of the last five years, with the exception of 2020/2021 where I made the decision to increase the core grants by 25% for one year. This resulted in £632k being made available for the 11 regional Mental Health voluntary organisations.
In April 2021, I announced a new £10m Mental Health Support Fund for charitable and community organisations offering support to people with mental ill health throughout all of Northern Ireland. Recognising the significant demand, I was pleased to allocate an additional £6.02m to the Fund in February 2022. A full list of the successful applicants to the Fund, together with the amounts awarded to them, can be found via the following links:
Mental Health Support Fund Round 1 Successful Applicants
Mental Health Support Fund Additional Funding and Successful Applicants
It should be noted that while organisations may be located in certain constituency areas, many of the funded projects offer services across Northern Ireland.
Given the range of services offered by the funded voluntary and community mental health organisations, it is not possible to determine which projects deal specifically with trauma related mental illnesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031150%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372656"}},{"id":"372655","reference":"AQW 31149/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-23","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the amount of funding for rural projects provided by his Department in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Funding support for rural projects provided by my Department in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years is as follows:\n\n2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021/22\tTotal\n£371,561\t£2,197,430\t£2,291,086\t£4,601,405\t£5,174,159\t£14,635,641\n\nThe cumulative total breakdown for each Scheme for the last five years is as follows:\n\nScheme\tTotal\nALL-IRELAND CO-OPERATION SCHEME\t£909,685\nBUSINESS INVESTMENT SCHEME\t£1,266,189\nM19.2 RURAL BASIC SERVICES SCHEME\t£2,487,255\nM19.2 VILLAGE RENEWAL SCHEME\t£966,129\nM4.1 FARM BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT SCHEME CAP TIER 2\t£672,854\nPRIORITY 6 ADMIN PAYMENTS\t£1,438,217\nRURAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT SCHEME\t£1,946,781\nCV19 INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME\t£2,623,988\nFLOODING COMPENSATION\t£541,678\nRURAL MICRO BUSINESS GRANT (PILOT)\t£16,527\nRURAL MICRO FOOD BUSINESS INVESTMENT SCHEME\t£0\nRURAL SOCIAL ECONOMY INVESTMENT SCHEME\t£71,600\nRURAL COMMUNITY POLLINATOR SCHEME\t£132,016\nCOMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (NACN)\t£313,496\nFOREST SERVICE TRAILS (Garvagh)\t£408,000\nSOCIAL FARMING CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME\t£15,429\nRURAL MICRO CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME\t£58,791\nCOVID 19 RECOVERY REVITALISATION SCHEME\t£449,000\nRURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GRANT SCHEME\t£318,007\nTotal\t£14,635,641","answerHtml":"Funding support for rural projects provided by my Department in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years is as follows:
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021/22 | Total |
| £371,561 | £2,197,430 | £2,291,086 | £4,601,405 | £5,174,159 | £14,635,641 |
The cumulative total breakdown for each Scheme for the last five years is as follows:
| Scheme | Total |
| ALL-IRELAND CO-OPERATION SCHEME | £909,685 |
| BUSINESS INVESTMENT SCHEME | £1,266,189 |
| M19.2 RURAL BASIC SERVICES SCHEME | £2,487,255 |
| M19.2 VILLAGE RENEWAL SCHEME | £966,129 |
| M4.1 FARM BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT SCHEME CAP TIER 2 | £672,854 |
| PRIORITY 6 ADMIN PAYMENTS | £1,438,217 |
| RURAL BUSINESS INVESTMENT SCHEME | £1,946,781 |
| CV19 INCOME SUPPORT SCHEME | £2,623,988 |
| FLOODING COMPENSATION | £541,678 |
| RURAL MICRO BUSINESS GRANT (PILOT) | £16,527 |
| RURAL MICRO FOOD BUSINESS INVESTMENT SCHEME | £0 |
| RURAL SOCIAL ECONOMY INVESTMENT SCHEME | £71,600 |
| RURAL COMMUNITY POLLINATOR SCHEME | £132,016 |
| COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT (NACN) | £313,496 |
| FOREST SERVICE TRAILS (Garvagh) | £408,000 |
| SOCIAL FARMING CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME | £15,429 |
| RURAL MICRO CAPITAL GRANT SCHEME | £58,791 |
| COVID 19 RECOVERY REVITALISATION SCHEME | £449,000 |
| RURAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT GRANT SCHEME | £318,007 |
| Total | £14,635,641 |
Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which are funded by my department and the Northern Ireland Policing Board continue to lead on the Department’s operational response to specific anti-social behaviour (ASB) concerns at a local level by working in partnership with designated partners, local statutory bodies/agencies, the voluntary sector and the community to deal with, and reduce the impact of, actual and perceived ASB on the local community.
Actions taken by PCSPs to address ASB include provision of community safety warden services; diversionary and community engagement projects; detached youth programmes; delivery of educational programmes; awareness raising campaigns to prevent ASB; projects with Night Time Economy stakeholders; and small grant schemes. They also link with other partnership structures, such as ASB Forums which have a role in addressing ASB to ensure a synergy in the local response to this issue.
In terms of East Londonderry, examples of projects and schemes the Causeway Coast & Glens PCSP are delivering include:
Supporting a neighbourhood watch scheme in conjunction with the PSNI to address ASB and crime in communities;
Facilitating an ASB working group, attended by the PSNI, which meet as and when situations require it;
Supporting a Community Intervention Support Programme to assist young individuals at risk of becoming involved in ASB
Funding a small grants scheme for local groups to derive local solutions to ASB
As you will be aware PCSP Action Plans for 2022/23 are currently being finalised. These plans are informed by the priorities identified by statutory partners and other stakeholders across Council areas.
In terms of an assessment of ASB rates, the most recently available PSNI statistics, covering the 12 months from 1st February 2021 until 31st January 2022, indicate a fall in recorded ASB incidents of 14.2% across Northern Ireland when compared with the previous 12 months. In East Londonderry, covered by the Causeway Coast & Glens Policing District, the same comparison shows an 11% fall in recorded incidents.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031131%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372515"}},{"id":"372514","reference":"AQW 31130/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-22","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of domestic animals being brought into Northern Ireland from Eastern Europe, potentially via a third country.","answerText":"In light of the current situation in Ukraine there is the potential for refugees to come to Northern Ireland (NI) with their pets (cats, dogs and ferrets) via Eastern Europe which may not be fully compliant with pet travel rules. There have been discussions with both Defra and DAFM to determine their emergency arrangements for pet movements of this kind. The recent announcement regarding the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme across the UK is likely to increase the potential for the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in NI some of whom, it is expected, will arrive with pets.\n\nUkraine is recognised as an unlisted third country with regards to the EU Pet Travel Regulations 576/2013. As you will be aware, this legislation is still in place in NI as a result of the NI Protocol and Withdrawal Agreement. Retained EU law in Great Britain (GB) following the end of the transition period also means that for the most part, the requirements as laid out in that legislation are also applicable for entry. This means pets moving from Ukraine to the EU, GB or NI require:\n\na microchip;\n\na rabies vaccination;\n\na successful blood test taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination;\n\nAn EU pet passport or a single use EU animal health certificate;\n\nTapeworm treatment for dogs;\n\nto wait 3 calendar months from the date the blood sample was taken before travelling; and\n\nto enter the EU (including NI) through a Travellers’ Point of Entry.\n\nNI has long held rabies-free status which we value highly and wish to protect. We also have strong biosecurity measures in place to protect the public and other animals from diseases which can be brought to NI by animals from overseas.\n\nI do, however, recognise the difficult and distressing situation that refugees from Ukraine currently face and that individuals in these circumstances would not have had time to complete the correct health preparations to travel with their pets. DAERA has put special arrangements in place to facilitate the non-commercial movement of pets with their owners from Ukraine. Pets will be allowed to travel with their owners even if the pet is non-compliant or has missing documentation.\n\nPeople travelling to NI from Ukraine are asked to pre-notify, where possible, via email. On arrival a compliance check will be carried out to determine the status of the animal. Fully compliant animals will be allowed to enter as normal and proceed to their destination. Should an animal be non-compliant DAERA will make arrangements for quarantine and the necessary health preparations in order to meet compliance with the legislation. DAERA will cover the costs of any necessary health preparations, quarantine stay and approved transportation to quarantine destination for the pets.","answerHtml":"In light of the current situation in Ukraine there is the potential for refugees to come to Northern Ireland (NI) with their pets (cats, dogs and ferrets) via Eastern Europe which may not be fully compliant with pet travel rules. There have been discussions with both Defra and DAFM to determine their emergency arrangements for pet movements of this kind. The recent announcement regarding the ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme across the UK is likely to increase the potential for the arrival of Ukrainian refugees in NI some of whom, it is expected, will arrive with pets.
Ukraine is recognised as an unlisted third country with regards to the EU Pet Travel Regulations 576/2013. As you will be aware, this legislation is still in place in NI as a result of the NI Protocol and Withdrawal Agreement. Retained EU law in Great Britain (GB) following the end of the transition period also means that for the most part, the requirements as laid out in that legislation are also applicable for entry. This means pets moving from Ukraine to the EU, GB or NI require:
a microchip;
a rabies vaccination;
a successful blood test taken at least 30 days after the rabies vaccination;
An EU pet passport or a single use EU animal health certificate;
Tapeworm treatment for dogs;
to wait 3 calendar months from the date the blood sample was taken before travelling; and
to enter the EU (including NI) through a Travellers’ Point of Entry.
NI has long held rabies-free status which we value highly and wish to protect. We also have strong biosecurity measures in place to protect the public and other animals from diseases which can be brought to NI by animals from overseas.
I do, however, recognise the difficult and distressing situation that refugees from Ukraine currently face and that individuals in these circumstances would not have had time to complete the correct health preparations to travel with their pets. DAERA has put special arrangements in place to facilitate the non-commercial movement of pets with their owners from Ukraine. Pets will be allowed to travel with their owners even if the pet is non-compliant or has missing documentation.
People travelling to NI from Ukraine are asked to pre-notify, where possible, via email. On arrival a compliance check will be carried out to determine the status of the animal. Fully compliant animals will be allowed to enter as normal and proceed to their destination. Should an animal be non-compliant DAERA will make arrangements for quarantine and the necessary health preparations in order to meet compliance with the legislation. DAERA will cover the costs of any necessary health preparations, quarantine stay and approved transportation to quarantine destination for the pets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031130%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372514"}},{"id":"372499","reference":"AQW 31115/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-22","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 30742/17-22, whether wastewater infrastructure provision in Limavady is also of a standard to support the construction of future developments.","answerText":"NI Water has advised that there are three investment schemes proposed for the Limavady area in Price Control 21 (2021-2027), subject to funding. These are Bovally wastewater pumping station (£1.35m), Limavady catchment upgrades (£2.133m) and Ballyclose Street Combined Sewer Overflow (£1.256m) and once they have been completed successfully, this should address most, if not all, of the existing catchment constraints.\n\nAccording to NI Water’s analysis, conducted in July 2021, NI Water has advised that the headroom capacity of the Limavady wastewater treatment works would permit the connection of approximately 1200 domestic properties, taking into account an allowance for non-domestic development.","answerHtml":"NI Water has advised that there are three investment schemes proposed for the Limavady area in Price Control 21 (2021-2027), subject to funding. These are Bovally wastewater pumping station (£1.35m), Limavady catchment upgrades (£2.133m) and Ballyclose Street Combined Sewer Overflow (£1.256m) and once they have been completed successfully, this should address most, if not all, of the existing catchment constraints.
According to NI Water’s analysis, conducted in July 2021, NI Water has advised that the headroom capacity of the Limavady wastewater treatment works would permit the connection of approximately 1200 domestic properties, taking into account an allowance for non-domestic development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031115%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372499","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372499"}},{"id":"372441","reference":"AQW 31096/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-21","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on the review of residents' parking schemes; (ii) to detail its findings; (iii) when it will be published; and (iv) when residents’ parking schemes will be available in East Londonderry.","answerText":"I am currently working with officials to finalise the review of residents’ parking after which the report will be published, and this will determine how other such schemes will be taken forward.","answerHtml":"I am currently working with officials to finalise the review of residents’ parking after which the report will be published, and this will determine how other such schemes will be taken forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031096%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372441"}},{"id":"372440","reference":"AQW 31095/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-21","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs when the Strategic Investment Board report into the need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland will be published.","answerText":"I have now received the report which the Strategic Investment Board produced around the need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland, and other veterinary work-force considerations.\n\nI am presently considering with officials how the report may now be taken forward in terms of engaging with the Steering Group (made up of representatives from the universities and the Causeway Coast and Glens Council), and other steps in support of its appropriate publication.","answerHtml":"I have now received the report which the Strategic Investment Board produced around the need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland, and other veterinary work-force considerations.
I am presently considering with officials how the report may now be taken forward in terms of engaging with the Steering Group (made up of representatives from the universities and the Causeway Coast and Glens Council), and other steps in support of its appropriate publication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031095%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372440"}},{"id":"372439","reference":"AQW 31094/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-21","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he has any plans to review veterinary charges for domestic animals.","answerText":"The charges applied for the provision of veterinary services to any animal are a matter for the private veterinary practitioner concerned. My Department has no role in regulating this sector.\n\nVeterinary pricing practices must, however, comply with consumer protection law and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons advises veterinarians to be open, honest and clear about charges for veterinary treatment.","answerHtml":"The charges applied for the provision of veterinary services to any animal are a matter for the private veterinary practitioner concerned. My Department has no role in regulating this sector.
Veterinary pricing practices must, however, comply with consumer protection law and the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons advises veterinarians to be open, honest and clear about charges for veterinary treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031094%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372439"}},{"id":"372148","reference":"AQW 31012/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-16","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the (i) process; and (ii) information and guidance social workers provide for families regarding top up fees for care homes.","answerText":"The policy on charging top-up fees, or third party charges is detailed in Departmental guidance ECCU 1/2010 ‘Care Management, Provision of Services and Charging Guidance’ (https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/hsc-eccu-1-2010.pdf).\n\nThis states that HSC Trusts must contract for placements at the most competitive rate available, which it considers suitable for meeting the individual’s assessed need, even where this is not obtainable at the regional rate. Where a Trust has contracted at that rate there is no top-up.\n\nShould a service user select accommodation which is more expensive than other appropriate accommodation which the HSC Trust can secure at a lower rate (for example, because they wish to have a better room in a particular home or a more expensive care home), the HSC Trust will facilitate that choice, but the additional cost must be met by a third party such as a family member of friend. This is what is known as a top-up.\n\nWhilst the aim should always be to facilitate choice for service users’, Trusts have a parallel responsibility to secure the best value for money and protect the public funds for which they are accountable.\n\nSocial workers are required to provide a choice of available and suitable homes to service users and their families. A choice of home must always be offered and recorded by a social worker even when a client has selected a home and does not want to consider alternative choices. Social workers will explain that should the service user and/or their families choose a more expensive home there may be a top up fee.","answerHtml":"The policy on charging top-up fees, or third party charges is detailed in Departmental guidance ECCU 1/2010 ‘Care Management, Provision of Services and Charging Guidance’ (https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/hsc-eccu-1-2010.pdf).
This states that HSC Trusts must contract for placements at the most competitive rate available, which it considers suitable for meeting the individual’s assessed need, even where this is not obtainable at the regional rate. Where a Trust has contracted at that rate there is no top-up.
Should a service user select accommodation which is more expensive than other appropriate accommodation which the HSC Trust can secure at a lower rate (for example, because they wish to have a better room in a particular home or a more expensive care home), the HSC Trust will facilitate that choice, but the additional cost must be met by a third party such as a family member of friend. This is what is known as a top-up.
Whilst the aim should always be to facilitate choice for service users’, Trusts have a parallel responsibility to secure the best value for money and protect the public funds for which they are accountable.
Social workers are required to provide a choice of available and suitable homes to service users and their families. A choice of home must always be offered and recorded by a social worker even when a client has selected a home and does not want to consider alternative choices. Social workers will explain that should the service user and/or their families choose a more expensive home there may be a top up fee.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031012%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372148"}},{"id":"372147","reference":"AQW 31011/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-16","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the process for individuals and community groups who want to improve areas (i) under her Department’s ownership; and (ii) where ownership cannot be determined.","answerText":"Individuals or community groups wishing to improve areas of the road network by the provision and maintenance of planting, are required to enter into an agreement with the Department as set out in ‘RSPPG E004 - Privately Funded Planting of Roundabouts, Road Verges and Car Parks’. This document is publically available at: RSPPG E004 Privately Funded Planting of Roundabouts, Road Verges and Car Parks (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)\n\nThe situation is more complex where ownership or control cannot be determined and I would suggest that you engage with the local Divisional Roads Manager on any specific locations you have in mind.","answerHtml":"Individuals or community groups wishing to improve areas of the road network by the provision and maintenance of planting, are required to enter into an agreement with the Department as set out in ‘RSPPG E004 - Privately Funded Planting of Roundabouts, Road Verges and Car Parks’. This document is publically available at: RSPPG E004 Privately Funded Planting of Roundabouts, Road Verges and Car Parks (infrastructure-ni.gov.uk)
The situation is more complex where ownership or control cannot be determined and I would suggest that you engage with the local Divisional Roads Manager on any specific locations you have in mind.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031011%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372147","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372147"}},{"id":"372142","reference":"AQW 31006/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-16","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether the £350 Home for Ukraine payment will be considered income and therefore affect income-related benefits.","answerText":"The £350 ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme payment will be fully disregarded from all income-related benefits.","answerHtml":"The £350 ‘Homes for Ukraine’ scheme payment will be fully disregarded from all income-related benefits.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2031006%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372142"}},{"id":"372008","reference":"AQW 30978/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-15","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for a breakdown of how planning application fees paid to her Department for major planning applications are (a) distributed within her Department; and (b) directly attributed to the processing of the application they are submitted for; (ii) what portion of planning application fees paid to her Department for major planning applications are distributed to each statutory consultee and how this is calculated; and (iii) for a breakdown of how planning application fees paid to local planning authorities for major planning applications are distributed within the authority’s planning department.","answerText":"Any monies received from fees paid for planning applications are attributed to my Strategic Planning Directorate budget, who are responsible for processing planning applications received by my Department.\n\nFees from planning applications are not distributed to each statutory consultee involved in the processing of an application.\n\nWith the creation of the two tier planning system the majority of planning functions transferred to local planning authorities on the 01st April 2015. As a result my Department does not hold information for or report on how each local planning authority draws down and apportions the fees they received for any planning applications. Therefore each Council is best placed to provide the information you seek regarding major planning applications it receives.","answerHtml":"Any monies received from fees paid for planning applications are attributed to my Strategic Planning Directorate budget, who are responsible for processing planning applications received by my Department.
Fees from planning applications are not distributed to each statutory consultee involved in the processing of an application.
With the creation of the two tier planning system the majority of planning functions transferred to local planning authorities on the 01st April 2015. As a result my Department does not hold information for or report on how each local planning authority draws down and apportions the fees they received for any planning applications. Therefore each Council is best placed to provide the information you seek regarding major planning applications it receives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030978%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=372008","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=372008"}},{"id":"371999","reference":"AQW 30969/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-15","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for a detailed breakdown of how planning application fees paid to the local planning authorities for major planning applications are directly attributed to the processing of the application they are submitted for; and (ii) what portion of planning application fees paid to local planning authorities for major planning applications are distributed to each statutory consultee and how this is calculated.","answerText":"With the creation of the two tier planning system the majority of planning functions transferred to local planning authorities on the 01st April 2015. As a result my Department does not hold information for or report on how each local planning authority draws down and apportions the fees they received for any planning applications. Therefore each Council is best placed to provide the information you seek regarding major planning applications it receives.","answerHtml":"With the creation of the two tier planning system the majority of planning functions transferred to local planning authorities on the 01st April 2015. As a result my Department does not hold information for or report on how each local planning authority draws down and apportions the fees they received for any planning applications. Therefore each Council is best placed to provide the information you seek regarding major planning applications it receives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030969%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371999","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371999"}},{"id":"371998","reference":"AQW 30968/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-15","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what support exists for children under 16 years old who are diagnosed with Long Covid.","answerText":"In terms of long COVID services, you will be aware that on the 1st November 2021, I launched the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome in Northern Ireland. These post COVID-19 services have been designed in line with Northern Ireland Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guideline NG188 on managing the long term effects of COVID-19, which covers identifying, assessing and managing the long-term effects of COVID-19.\n\nFollowing clinical advice from paediatric specialists in Northern Ireland, post-COVID-19 services have been designed for people aged 16 years and over. Children who have not reached their 16th birthday who have persistent symptoms after a diagnosis of COVID and who require more specialist care can be referred to Trust paediatric services in the usual way to receive the appropriate assessment and treatment in line with their individual clinical needs.\n\nMy Department will continually review and update these services in line with any updates to the NICE guidance as to what are safe and effective treatments for post-COVID-19 patients. In addition, there is ongoing engagement with paediatric specialists in Northern Ireland to ensure that service arrangements for children with post-COVID-19 syndrome remain the best way of providing care to those children who need it.","answerHtml":"In terms of long COVID services, you will be aware that on the 1st November 2021, I launched the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome in Northern Ireland. These post COVID-19 services have been designed in line with Northern Ireland Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guideline NG188 on managing the long term effects of COVID-19, which covers identifying, assessing and managing the long-term effects of COVID-19.
Following clinical advice from paediatric specialists in Northern Ireland, post-COVID-19 services have been designed for people aged 16 years and over. Children who have not reached their 16th birthday who have persistent symptoms after a diagnosis of COVID and who require more specialist care can be referred to Trust paediatric services in the usual way to receive the appropriate assessment and treatment in line with their individual clinical needs.
My Department will continually review and update these services in line with any updates to the NICE guidance as to what are safe and effective treatments for post-COVID-19 patients. In addition, there is ongoing engagement with paediatric specialists in Northern Ireland to ensure that service arrangements for children with post-COVID-19 syndrome remain the best way of providing care to those children who need it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030968%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371998","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371998"}},{"id":"371899","reference":"AQW 30936/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-14","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, further to the recent passage of the Climate Change (No.2) Bill and the publication of the Energy Strategy, whether she plans to review the planning system to streamline applications for renewable energy projects.","answerText":"I published the first Report on the Review of the Implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011 on 27 January 2022. While the scope of the review was not a detailed examination of the operation or performance of the overall new two-tier planning system, it did culminate in 16 recommendations which, will deliver significant, and tangible improvements to the planning system overall. I am committed to developing the policy proposals around these recommendations at the earliest opportunity.\n\nActions which require amendment to current primary legislation will need to be taken forward through the NI Assembly Bill Process. Other Actions which require secondary / subordinate legislation will also be undertaken in accordance with best practice, and in conjunction with the Committee and Assembly where appropriate. Other actions may be addressed through new or revised guidance.\n\nIn addition, I am taking forward a review of strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy, to ensure that policy is up to date, fit for purpose and furthers sustainable development in the long term public interest. My Department has also been working on a number of other fronts to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning system, including the establishment of a cross-departmental Planning Forum; a new regional planning IT system that will allow for the more efficient processing of applications; and a Planning Engagement Partnership to improve the planning system and people’s experience of the planning system.\n\nI have no doubt that all of the improvements coming from this work will benefit proposals for renewable energy projects in the future.","answerHtml":"I published the first Report on the Review of the Implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011 on 27 January 2022. While the scope of the review was not a detailed examination of the operation or performance of the overall new two-tier planning system, it did culminate in 16 recommendations which, will deliver significant, and tangible improvements to the planning system overall. I am committed to developing the policy proposals around these recommendations at the earliest opportunity.
Actions which require amendment to current primary legislation will need to be taken forward through the NI Assembly Bill Process. Other Actions which require secondary / subordinate legislation will also be undertaken in accordance with best practice, and in conjunction with the Committee and Assembly where appropriate. Other actions may be addressed through new or revised guidance.
In addition, I am taking forward a review of strategic planning policy on renewable and low carbon energy, to ensure that policy is up to date, fit for purpose and furthers sustainable development in the long term public interest. My Department has also been working on a number of other fronts to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning system, including the establishment of a cross-departmental Planning Forum; a new regional planning IT system that will allow for the more efficient processing of applications; and a Planning Engagement Partnership to improve the planning system and people’s experience of the planning system.
I have no doubt that all of the improvements coming from this work will benefit proposals for renewable energy projects in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030936%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371899","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371899"}},{"id":"371898","reference":"AQW 30935/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-14","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to address inequalities in dental care.","answerText":"Good progress has been made over the last four decades, however oral health inequalities remain a significant public health issue in Northern Ireland. The impact of poor oral health disproportionately affects vulnerable and socially disadvantaged individuals and groups in society.\n\nReducing inequalities in oral health is a huge challenge. It needs sustained collaboration across departments and agencies, local government, voluntary sector, and with communities themselves to address the factors that impact on oral health locally and regionally.\n\nMaking Life Better is the overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over how they live, and be enabled and supported to lead healthy lives. This clearly recognises that health and wellbeing, and health inequalities, are not just the outcome of the clinical services we provide but are in fact primarily shaped by factors including age, family, community, workplace, beliefs and traditions, economics, and physical and social environments.\n\nThe Chief Dental Officer (CDO) has established Oral Health Options Groups to allow for the consideration and development of further interventions for the two most urgent groups at present; namely, children and older people. These groups are considering the contributory factors to oral health inequalities at a population level as well as considering how oral health behaviours can be improved for individuals. The outcomes from these groups will be considered in the coming months.\n\nAll future plans will have at their centre the prevention of oral disease and promotion of oral health. The CDO has recently been involved in the publication and early implementation work of the Delivering Better Oral Health guidance, which seeks to ensure a consistent UK wide approach to prevention of oral diseases throughout the population.","answerHtml":"Good progress has been made over the last four decades, however oral health inequalities remain a significant public health issue in Northern Ireland. The impact of poor oral health disproportionately affects vulnerable and socially disadvantaged individuals and groups in society.
Reducing inequalities in oral health is a huge challenge. It needs sustained collaboration across departments and agencies, local government, voluntary sector, and with communities themselves to address the factors that impact on oral health locally and regionally.
Making Life Better is the overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over how they live, and be enabled and supported to lead healthy lives. This clearly recognises that health and wellbeing, and health inequalities, are not just the outcome of the clinical services we provide but are in fact primarily shaped by factors including age, family, community, workplace, beliefs and traditions, economics, and physical and social environments.
The Chief Dental Officer (CDO) has established Oral Health Options Groups to allow for the consideration and development of further interventions for the two most urgent groups at present; namely, children and older people. These groups are considering the contributory factors to oral health inequalities at a population level as well as considering how oral health behaviours can be improved for individuals. The outcomes from these groups will be considered in the coming months.
All future plans will have at their centre the prevention of oral disease and promotion of oral health. The CDO has recently been involved in the publication and early implementation work of the Delivering Better Oral Health guidance, which seeks to ensure a consistent UK wide approach to prevention of oral diseases throughout the population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030935%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371898"}},{"id":"371897","reference":"AQW 30934/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-14","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail any criticism he has received regarding his new financial support scheme for general dental practice; and (ii) whether this new scheme is a step towards a fully privatised dental service in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The British Dental Association and a number of dentists have raised concerns with the Department about the level of investment in the Rebuilding Support Scheme, arguing that more investment is needed at this time. In addition to the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on service delivery, they have expressed concerns around the rising costs of running their practices.\n\nThis additional investment is not a step towards the privatisation of General Dental Services, nor does my Department have that goal. It is reverting our investment approach back to one based on activity, and away from guaranteed earnings, but with enhanced payments to reflect the pressures caused by the pandemic.","answerHtml":"The British Dental Association and a number of dentists have raised concerns with the Department about the level of investment in the Rebuilding Support Scheme, arguing that more investment is needed at this time. In addition to the ongoing impacts of the pandemic on service delivery, they have expressed concerns around the rising costs of running their practices.
This additional investment is not a step towards the privatisation of General Dental Services, nor does my Department have that goal. It is reverting our investment approach back to one based on activity, and away from guaranteed earnings, but with enhanced payments to reflect the pressures caused by the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030934%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371897","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371897"}},{"id":"371896","reference":"AQW 30933/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-14","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail her reasons not to extend £200 Energy Payment Support Scheme to those who are in receipt of legacy benefits, such as working tax credits; (ii) whether she considered total household income as well as individual income in this decision; and (iii) for her assessment of how this decision will impact single parent families with low working income.","answerText":"Answer\n\nI refer the member to my statement in the Assembly on 1 March 2022.","answerHtml":"Answer
I refer the member to my statement in the Assembly on 1 March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030933%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371896","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371896"}},{"id":"371895","reference":"AQW 30932/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-14","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of pay and conditions for Education Welfare Officers as a comparison with social workers; and (ii) to detail her plans to close the current pay gap between Education Welfare Officers and social workers.","answerText":"There is no single salary for a qualified social worker in Northern Ireland and it is very difficult to make direct comparisons of pay across different organisations as the requirements of the roles and the conditions of service will differ. Therefore there are always likely to be variations in pay across organisations and job roles.\n\nIn order to address this, job evaluation procedures are used within individual organisations to determine the appropriate grading of posts and the corresponding level of pay. The Education Authority (EA) has a well-established Job Evaluation procedure in place for this purpose. Any proposed solution to address these pay concerns will involve the evaluation and grading of roles in line with best practice.\n\nThe EA, as employer of Education Welfare Officers in Northern Ireland, agreed with NIPSA that they would progress an early resolution to the pay dispute via the Education Welfare Service Transformation Programme, which is tasked with reviewing and transforming the Service to meet the needs of young people. EA management are continuing to engage in negotiations with NIPSA on a regular basis and are committed to ensuring that Education Welfare Officers are fairly remunerated for their roles.","answerHtml":"There is no single salary for a qualified social worker in Northern Ireland and it is very difficult to make direct comparisons of pay across different organisations as the requirements of the roles and the conditions of service will differ. Therefore there are always likely to be variations in pay across organisations and job roles.
In order to address this, job evaluation procedures are used within individual organisations to determine the appropriate grading of posts and the corresponding level of pay. The Education Authority (EA) has a well-established Job Evaluation procedure in place for this purpose. Any proposed solution to address these pay concerns will involve the evaluation and grading of roles in line with best practice.
The EA, as employer of Education Welfare Officers in Northern Ireland, agreed with NIPSA that they would progress an early resolution to the pay dispute via the Education Welfare Service Transformation Programme, which is tasked with reviewing and transforming the Service to meet the needs of young people. EA management are continuing to engage in negotiations with NIPSA on a regular basis and are committed to ensuring that Education Welfare Officers are fairly remunerated for their roles.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030932%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371895","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371895"}},{"id":"371731","reference":"AQW 30887/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-11","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what steps he is taking to reduce the consumer prices for heating oil, gas, petrol and diesel.","answerText":"Unfortunately, I do not have any policy levers available to me as Finance Minister to reduce the high energy prices being faced by consumers here. However, I have written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury a number of times recently given his responsibility for the high rates of fuel duty and VAT on energy to call for these to be urgently reduced to provide much needed support to households and businesses. The British Government needs to take swift action on this and I will continue to press for that.\n\nBut in recognition of the immediate pressure that spiralling energy prices are putting on household budgets, I allocated £55 million to the Department for Communities in January to establish an Energy Payments Support Scheme which has now provided a one-off payment to low income individuals to ensure vital support is provided to the most vulnerable households in the North.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately, I do not have any policy levers available to me as Finance Minister to reduce the high energy prices being faced by consumers here. However, I have written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury a number of times recently given his responsibility for the high rates of fuel duty and VAT on energy to call for these to be urgently reduced to provide much needed support to households and businesses. The British Government needs to take swift action on this and I will continue to press for that.
But in recognition of the immediate pressure that spiralling energy prices are putting on household budgets, I allocated £55 million to the Department for Communities in January to establish an Energy Payments Support Scheme which has now provided a one-off payment to low income individuals to ensure vital support is provided to the most vulnerable households in the North.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030887%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371731","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371731"}},{"id":"371730","reference":"AQW 30886/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-11","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on (i) current MOT waiting times; and (ii) efforts being made to (a) reduce waiting times; and (b) enable drivers to get a booking at their closest test centre.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not currently hold information to enable it to accurately report the average waiting times for a vehicle test given that this position changes on a regular basis. However, as of 21 March 2022, the DVA has confirmed that just under 48,000 vehicle test appointments were available across its network of centres up to 30 June 2022.\n\nFrom Monday 26 July 2021, the DVA reinstated normal vehicle test times, and this has increased capacity across the network of test centres. From 1 September 2021 to 28 February 2022, the DVA has conducted 414,700 full vehicle tests, which is 10% more than the five-year average for those months.\n\nThe DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west. The DVA are monitoring the applications received and tests carried out and expect waiting times to reduce over time through the actions they have taken to increase vehicle testing capacity across the network.\n\nDVA officials have consulted with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Association of British Insurers to make them aware of the current position regarding MOT appointments and appropriate mitigations have been put in place. The DVA’s advice to customers who require an MOT to tax their vehicle and cannot secure a date before the MOT expires or have been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate is:\n\nbook the earliest available appointment;\n\nkeep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires.\n\nIf they get to within five days of the expiry date of their tax and they have been unable to secure an MOT appointment or their tax has expired, contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will do their best to secure an urgent appointment for their vehicle. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances have been offered an earlier appointment slot.\n\nThis information is available on NI Direct Book, view, change or cancel an MOT/ vehicle test | nidirect and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to our customers. The DVA have confirmed that any customer requiring an MOT to tax their vehicle will be given priority.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not currently hold information to enable it to accurately report the average waiting times for a vehicle test given that this position changes on a regular basis. However, as of 21 March 2022, the DVA has confirmed that just under 48,000 vehicle test appointments were available across its network of centres up to 30 June 2022.
From Monday 26 July 2021, the DVA reinstated normal vehicle test times, and this has increased capacity across the network of test centres. From 1 September 2021 to 28 February 2022, the DVA has conducted 414,700 full vehicle tests, which is 10% more than the five-year average for those months.
The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west. The DVA are monitoring the applications received and tests carried out and expect waiting times to reduce over time through the actions they have taken to increase vehicle testing capacity across the network.
DVA officials have consulted with the Police Service of Northern Ireland and the Association of British Insurers to make them aware of the current position regarding MOT appointments and appropriate mitigations have been put in place. The DVA’s advice to customers who require an MOT to tax their vehicle and cannot secure a date before the MOT expires or have been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate is:
book the earliest available appointment;
keep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires.
If they get to within five days of the expiry date of their tax and they have been unable to secure an MOT appointment or their tax has expired, contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will do their best to secure an urgent appointment for their vehicle. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances have been offered an earlier appointment slot.
This information is available on NI Direct Book, view, change or cancel an MOT/ vehicle test | nidirect and is also included as an advice note with every MOT Reminder Letter issued to our customers. The DVA have confirmed that any customer requiring an MOT to tax their vehicle will be given priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030886%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371730","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371730"}},{"id":"371729","reference":"AQW 30885/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-11","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the projects and investment her Department has created in rural areas of East Londonderry during this Assembly mandate.","answerText":"North Coast Community Transport (NCCT) is funded by my Department via the Rural Transport Fund (RFT) to deliver Dial-a-Lift (DAL). DAL is an accessible, affordable transport option across rural communities available to those people who are socially isolated and have difficulty accessing public transport. Passenger transport trips provided under DAL are restricted to NCCTS’s operational area which is not specific to, but includes the rural areas of East Derry.\n\nI am very aware of the invaluable contribution both these services make towards enabling some of the most vulnerable people in our society to overcome barriers to social interaction and to access essential services.\n\nSince I have been in post as DfI Minister the total amount of funding paid by my Department to NCCT from 1 January 2020 – 31 March 2022 is £1,432,355. The table below details the funding streams and amounts paid.\n\n£\nRTF – Dial-A-Lift\t886,637\nAssisted Rural Transport Scheme (ARTS) *\t329,860\nRTF - Personal Protective Equipment Funding **\t9,800\nCovid Relief (Resource) Funding**\t94,834\nResource Based Funding - total\t1,321,131\nBlue/Green Fund Electric Bus Expenditure***\t71,762\nSix months lease Costs **\t39,462\nCapital based funding - total\t111,224\nOverall total\t1,432,355\n\n* ARTS is funded by DAERA but administered by my Department. ARTS is paid monthly in arrears therefore, at this time, we only hold payment details until 31 January 2022.\n\n** One off payments issued as a result of financial hardship due to COVID.\n\n*** Blue/green infrastructure capital funding was received for the purchase of an electric vehicle and charging point as part of a trial which all community transport operators are taking part in.\n\nI have provided funding to Translink to upgrade the Coleraine Integrated Station in 2021 with an overall budget of £1.1m. A project to re-rail the track between Ballymoney and Coleraine is currently underway with a total budget of £8.1m.\n\nI have also committed to getting the Derry to Coleraine Phase 3 rail project back on track. Translink has completed a Feasibility Study and Outline Business Case for Coleraine - Derry Phase 3 project with a view to it being undertaken in 2025/26, which is currently with my Department for consideration. In addition, I have also commissioned a feasibility study to consider additional halts along the Derry to Belfast rail corridor with a view to implementing a half hourly service. This is due to complete in summer 2022. A Feasibility study has also been completed for a Park & Ride facility at Bellarena.\n\nBuses for East Derry to the value of £13.6m have been purchased from January 2020 and this does not include the ongoing £30m investment in Zero Emission vehicles and associated infrastructure for Foyle Metro in 2023.\n\nI contributed £5million from my Department’s Blue Green Infrastructure fund in 2020/21 to DfC’s Covid Recovery Revitalisation programme of which £373,000 was allocated to Derry City and Strabane District Council and £395,000 was allocated to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.\n\nI also contributed £6.5million from my Department’s Blue Green Infrastructure fund in 2021/22 to DfC’s Covid Recovery Small Settlements Revitalisation programme of which £605,000 was allocated to Derry City and Strabane District Council and £600,000 was allocated to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.\n\nFor both programmes the funding was to be used for supporting active travel, promoting connectivity and access to services, and/or create and enhance green / blue spaces.\n\nI am also pleased to say that we have made considerable investment in roads infrastructure in the rural areas of East Derry during this mandate. Details of roads infrastructure projects already delivered, ongoing and planned are contained in the Department’s Reports to Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council and Derry City and Strabane Council District Council which are available to view on my Department’s website. The tables below contain details of some of the more significant projects already completed or ongoing:\n\nYear\tStrategic Road Improvements\n2018 - 22\t£220M A6 Dungiven to Drumahoe dualling project\n\nYear\tMaintenance Resurfacing schemes\n2019 / 20\tB74 Glenshane Road at Tirglassan\nB49 Cumber Road at Robinson’s Concrete Works\nB66 Craigmore Road, Coleraine\nB69 Seacoast Road, Myroe Limavady\n2020 / 21\tA2 Ballyreagh Road, Portrush\nB64 Bridge Street, Kilrea\nB64 Station Road, Dungiven\n2021 / 22\tA29 Carhill Road, Garvagh\nB69 Baranailt Road, Limavady\nB186 Cashel Road, Macosquin.\n\nYear\tNetwork Development & Traffic schemes\n2019 / 20\tB62 Ballybogey Rd at Revallagh – junction improvements.\n2020 / 21\tB118 Tamnaherin Rd / High Moor Rd - sight line improvement\n20mph part time speed limits at Drumrane PS Burnfoot, St Canice’s PS Feeny, St Matthew’s PS Drumsurn, St Patricks & St Joseph’s PS Garvagh.\n2021 / 22\t20mph part time speed limits at St Conor’s College Kilrea, Gaelcholaiste Dhoire & Gaelscoil Neachtain Dungiven\n\nYear\tActive Travel schemes\n2019 / 20\tA6 Foreglen Rd Footway Cycleway, Dernaflaw – Derrychrier Rd Dungiven\n2020 / 21\tA6 Foreglen Rd Footway Cycleway, Owenbeg, Dungiven.\n2021 / 22\tA6 Foreglen Rd Footway Cycleway, Ovil - Foreglen, Dungiven\nB119 Freehall Road Footway, Castlerock\n\nYear\tStreet Lighting schemes\n2019 / 20\tDungiven LED retrofit\nDernaflaw LED retrofit\nClagan Road, Straidaran\n2020 / 21\tMountainview Park and Mitchell Park Dungiven\nBriar Hill & Briar Hill Gardens, Greysteel\nMacosquin LED retrofit\n2021 / 22\tDe Glin Park, Claudy\nPriory Rd and Ard Na Smoll Dungiven\nBridge Street/Bann Rd, Kilrea\n\nYear\tStructures schemes\n2019 /20\tDuncrun Bridge Limavady – Parapet repair\nA2 Crescent Portstewart – Retaining Wall repair\n2020 / 21\tB190 Moneyquiggy Bridge Dungiven – parapet and barrier works\nMacCleary’s Bridge, Coleraine – repair and repointing\nBallyagan Bridge, Garvagh – parapet and drainage works\n2021 / 22\tB190 Belraugh Road – safety barrier upgrade\nBurnfoot Bridge – general maintenance works","answerHtml":"North Coast Community Transport (NCCT) is funded by my Department via the Rural Transport Fund (RFT) to deliver Dial-a-Lift (DAL). DAL is an accessible, affordable transport option across rural communities available to those people who are socially isolated and have difficulty accessing public transport. Passenger transport trips provided under DAL are restricted to NCCTS’s operational area which is not specific to, but includes the rural areas of East Derry.
I am very aware of the invaluable contribution both these services make towards enabling some of the most vulnerable people in our society to overcome barriers to social interaction and to access essential services.
Since I have been in post as DfI Minister the total amount of funding paid by my Department to NCCT from 1 January 2020 – 31 March 2022 is £1,432,355. The table below details the funding streams and amounts paid.
| £ | |
| RTF – Dial-A-Lift | 886,637 |
| Assisted Rural Transport Scheme (ARTS) * | 329,860 |
| RTF - Personal Protective Equipment Funding ** | 9,800 |
| Covid Relief (Resource) Funding** | 94,834 |
| Resource Based Funding - total | 1,321,131 |
| Blue/Green Fund Electric Bus Expenditure*** | 71,762 |
| Six months lease Costs ** | 39,462 |
| Capital based funding - total | 111,224 |
| Overall total | 1,432,355 |
* ARTS is funded by DAERA but administered by my Department. ARTS is paid monthly in arrears therefore, at this time, we only hold payment details until 31 January 2022.
** One off payments issued as a result of financial hardship due to COVID.
*** Blue/green infrastructure capital funding was received for the purchase of an electric vehicle and charging point as part of a trial which all community transport operators are taking part in.
I have provided funding to Translink to upgrade the Coleraine Integrated Station in 2021 with an overall budget of £1.1m. A project to re-rail the track between Ballymoney and Coleraine is currently underway with a total budget of £8.1m.
I have also committed to getting the Derry to Coleraine Phase 3 rail project back on track. Translink has completed a Feasibility Study and Outline Business Case for Coleraine - Derry Phase 3 project with a view to it being undertaken in 2025/26, which is currently with my Department for consideration. In addition, I have also commissioned a feasibility study to consider additional halts along the Derry to Belfast rail corridor with a view to implementing a half hourly service. This is due to complete in summer 2022. A Feasibility study has also been completed for a Park & Ride facility at Bellarena.
Buses for East Derry to the value of £13.6m have been purchased from January 2020 and this does not include the ongoing £30m investment in Zero Emission vehicles and associated infrastructure for Foyle Metro in 2023.
I contributed £5million from my Department’s Blue Green Infrastructure fund in 2020/21 to DfC’s Covid Recovery Revitalisation programme of which £373,000 was allocated to Derry City and Strabane District Council and £395,000 was allocated to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
I also contributed £6.5million from my Department’s Blue Green Infrastructure fund in 2021/22 to DfC’s Covid Recovery Small Settlements Revitalisation programme of which £605,000 was allocated to Derry City and Strabane District Council and £600,000 was allocated to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.
For both programmes the funding was to be used for supporting active travel, promoting connectivity and access to services, and/or create and enhance green / blue spaces.
I am also pleased to say that we have made considerable investment in roads infrastructure in the rural areas of East Derry during this mandate. Details of roads infrastructure projects already delivered, ongoing and planned are contained in the Department’s Reports to Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council and Derry City and Strabane Council District Council which are available to view on my Department’s website. The tables below contain details of some of the more significant projects already completed or ongoing:
| Year | Strategic Road Improvements |
| 2018 - 22 | £220M A6 Dungiven to Drumahoe dualling project |
| Year | Maintenance Resurfacing schemes |
| 2019 / 20 | B74 Glenshane Road at Tirglassan B49 Cumber Road at Robinson’s Concrete Works B66 Craigmore Road, Coleraine B69 Seacoast Road, Myroe Limavady |
| 2020 / 21 | A2 Ballyreagh Road, Portrush B64 Bridge Street, Kilrea B64 Station Road, Dungiven |
| 2021 / 22 | A29 Carhill Road, Garvagh B69 Baranailt Road, Limavady B186 Cashel Road, Macosquin. |
| Year | Network Development & Traffic schemes |
| 2019 / 20 | B62 Ballybogey Rd at Revallagh – junction improvements. |
| 2020 / 21 | B118 Tamnaherin Rd / High Moor Rd - sight line improvement 20mph part time speed limits at Drumrane PS Burnfoot, St Canice’s PS Feeny, St Matthew’s PS Drumsurn, St Patricks & St Joseph’s PS Garvagh. |
| 2021 / 22 | 20mph part time speed limits at St Conor’s College Kilrea, Gaelcholaiste Dhoire & Gaelscoil Neachtain Dungiven |
| Year | Active Travel schemes |
| 2019 / 20 | A6 Foreglen Rd Footway Cycleway, Dernaflaw – Derrychrier Rd Dungiven |
| 2020 / 21 | A6 Foreglen Rd Footway Cycleway, Owenbeg, Dungiven. |
| 2021 / 22 | A6 Foreglen Rd Footway Cycleway, Ovil - Foreglen, Dungiven B119 Freehall Road Footway, Castlerock |
| Year | Street Lighting schemes |
| 2019 / 20 | Dungiven LED retrofit Dernaflaw LED retrofit Clagan Road, Straidaran |
| 2020 / 21 | Mountainview Park and Mitchell Park Dungiven Briar Hill & Briar Hill Gardens, Greysteel Macosquin LED retrofit |
| 2021 / 22 | De Glin Park, Claudy Priory Rd and Ard Na Smoll Dungiven Bridge Street/Bann Rd, Kilrea |
| Year | Structures schemes |
| 2019 /20 | Duncrun Bridge Limavady – Parapet repair A2 Crescent Portstewart – Retaining Wall repair |
| 2020 / 21 | B190 Moneyquiggy Bridge Dungiven – parapet and barrier works MacCleary’s Bridge, Coleraine – repair and repointing Ballyagan Bridge, Garvagh – parapet and drainage works |
| 2021 / 22 | B190 Belraugh Road – safety barrier upgrade Burnfoot Bridge – general maintenance works |
I recognise how important it is that people can access GP services when they need to do so. GP practices are open and will continue to provide both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.
GP services have been under increasing pressure since before the pandemic. Telephone consultations have helped to manage that pressure, allowing patients to seek timely medical advice from their GP for both routine and urgent problems. Under the telephone consultation system, the GP determines the most appropriate approach to safely addressing the patient’s needs using their clinical expertise.
Where a face to face appointment is appropriate, that will be arranged. Alternatively, the GP may decide, based on their clinical assessment, that a telephone consultation is appropriate or that the patient should be signposted or directed to other relevant services.
This approach helps the GP to appropriately manage, treat and support the large number of us who seek clinical support and advice from our primary care practitioners. Practice teams are carrying out approximately 200,000 patient consultations on a weekly basis.
In recognition of the increasing demand for primary care services, my Department has continued to invest in our GP workforce and has increased the number of GP trainees by over 70% from 2015 levels. Work is underway on a review of GP trainee places with a working group established to explore issues relating to the GP workforce to ensure we have the workforce in Primary Care we need going forward. Whilst its work is still ongoing, the working group has recommended an immediate increase of 10 additional GP training places as an interim measure for the 2022/23 academic year. This recommendation has been accepted, subject to the necessary approvals. Any future increases will be informed by completion of the work of the working group.
It is important to note however that the increase in demand for primary care services cannot be met solely by increasing the number of GPs. Rather this is part of a wider programme of work to help improve patient access to services in primary care. Other elements include the wider roll-out of primary care Multi-disciplinary Teams as well as the introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and additional General Practice Nurses, all of which are making a difference to how services are delivered in primary care and contributing to improved patient outcomes.
My Department has also made funding of up to £5.5million available to support General Practice in Northern Ireland over the winter period. This included up to £1.7million to further improve telephony infrastructure and improve accessibility, such as the use of on-line systems for ordering repeat prescriptions, helping to free up telephone lines and staff time.
It is essential that we make use of all the tools at our disposal to ensure that we can make best use of the available resources. It will be important that Primary Care continues to transform to meet growing patient demand. Technology and new ways of working will continue to play an important role alongside existing arrangements, such as face to face appointments, which will still be available to GPs to safely manage patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030884%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371728","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371728"}},{"id":"371718","reference":"AQW 30874/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-11","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail any plans he has for renegotiating the Rebuilding Support Scheme for dentists, given the British Dental Association’s rejection of the latest offer; (ii) for his assessment of corresponding dental fee enhancements that have been introduced in other UK jurisdictions; and (iii) for his assessment of dentistry in Northern Ireland currently.","answerText":"Whilst engagement continues with the British Dental Association (BDA) and the effectiveness of the measures remains under review, there are no plans to renegotiate the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS). As outlined in the establishment of the new financial scheme, I have committed that any available surplus will be invested in the sector. Officials continue to discuss investment options with the BDA.\n\nAll UK jurisdictions face different challenges in addressing the backlog of dental need and in terms of their own financial circumstances. Each has its own contractual arrangements and budgetary conditions. Officials in my Department have engaged with their counterparts in other jurisdictions throughout the pandemic, and all approaches were considered before taking a decision on the approach appropriate for Northern Ireland.\n\nPrior to the COVID-19 pandemic, General Dental Services (GDS) in Northern Ireland faced many challenges, however access to treatment was good and the general oral health of the population was improving. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on capacity within GDS, with dentists currently completing around 59% of their pre-pandemic activity in Q4 2021/22.\n\nRecent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings, along with the introduction of the RSS in April 2022 is expected to further increase capacity within practices resulting in improved access. Additional investment has been committed for the first quarter of 2022/23 to further support dental practices, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the RSS to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing.\n\nHowever, I do not underestimate the impact that the last two years will have had on the dental health of the population nor the repercussions this will have over the coming years.\n\nMy Department is committed to working with the BDA and other organisations to develop further strategies - including the negotiation of a new GDS contract - that will mitigate the impact of the pandemic on dental health over time, and build a sustainable, financially viable future for GDS.","answerHtml":"Whilst engagement continues with the British Dental Association (BDA) and the effectiveness of the measures remains under review, there are no plans to renegotiate the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS). As outlined in the establishment of the new financial scheme, I have committed that any available surplus will be invested in the sector. Officials continue to discuss investment options with the BDA.
All UK jurisdictions face different challenges in addressing the backlog of dental need and in terms of their own financial circumstances. Each has its own contractual arrangements and budgetary conditions. Officials in my Department have engaged with their counterparts in other jurisdictions throughout the pandemic, and all approaches were considered before taking a decision on the approach appropriate for Northern Ireland.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, General Dental Services (GDS) in Northern Ireland faced many challenges, however access to treatment was good and the general oral health of the population was improving. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on capacity within GDS, with dentists currently completing around 59% of their pre-pandemic activity in Q4 2021/22.
Recent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings, along with the introduction of the RSS in April 2022 is expected to further increase capacity within practices resulting in improved access. Additional investment has been committed for the first quarter of 2022/23 to further support dental practices, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the RSS to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing.
However, I do not underestimate the impact that the last two years will have had on the dental health of the population nor the repercussions this will have over the coming years.
My Department is committed to working with the BDA and other organisations to develop further strategies - including the negotiation of a new GDS contract - that will mitigate the impact of the pandemic on dental health over time, and build a sustainable, financially viable future for GDS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030874%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371718"}},{"id":"371629","reference":"AQW 30860/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-10","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) what consideration he has given to including houses that have been vacated, by an unwell or infirm person being cared for in the home of a relative or friend, into the rating of empty homes exclusions; and (ii) how this can be brought into line with rating of empty homes exclusions for houses that have been vacated by a person who has gone into a registered care facility.","answerText":"The rating of empty homes policy was introduced in October 2011 to assist with wider policy objectives related to housing affordability and supply, as well as to raise additional revenue. One of the exclusions to this policy is that the person who owns the empty property has his only or principal residence in a hospital, nursing home or residential care home. Any further policy changes in this regard would not be possible given the time left in this mandate.","answerHtml":"The rating of empty homes policy was introduced in October 2011 to assist with wider policy objectives related to housing affordability and supply, as well as to raise additional revenue. One of the exclusions to this policy is that the person who owns the empty property has his only or principal residence in a hospital, nursing home or residential care home. Any further policy changes in this regard would not be possible given the time left in this mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030860%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371629"}},{"id":"371626","reference":"AQW 30857/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-10","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the steps he is taking to ensure adequate numbers of pharmacists are working in Northern Ireland, particularly in rural locations.","answerText":"My Department published its Pharmacy Workforce Review and associated Action Plan on 9th November 2020. The Review contains an analysis of the current pharmacy workforce in Northern Ireland. The Action Plan sets out a suite of proposed actions against each of the recommendations made in the report, including a number of actions around how to increase the number of pharmacists and community pharmacists in Northern Ireland. A Steering Group has since been established to oversee implementation of the Action Plan. A copy of the published report and Action Plan can be viewed at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/pharmacy-workforce-review-2019\n\nA pharmacy workforce attract, retain and recruit campaign was launched in November 2020 by the Pharmacy Forum NI. In partnership with the Department, the aim is to attract qualified pharmacists from other jurisdictions to take up employment opportunities in Northern Ireland, as well as seeking to encourage newly qualified pre-registration pharmacists to remain here and promote vacancies across all settings and locations including rural. A successful virtual careers event was held last summer to attract school leavers to Pharmacy courses and a support network of Pharmacy Champions has now been established across Northern Ireland. In addition, Belfast Healthy Cities have developed and are piloting a Pharmacy Schools Programme to promote the role of the Pharmacist to primary school pupils, for roll out this year.\n\nIn addition, my Department is working also with the Department for the Economy and local universities to ensure that the necessary number of pharmacy graduates are available to meet workforce demands, which has included developing options to increase the number of pharmacist undergraduates studying in our universities. To help retain students in Northern Ireland to complete their foundation training, remuneration for community pharmacy placements was once again increased this year.\n\nMy Department is also providing significant funding to support the introduction of the new UK wide regulatory reforms to transform the initial education and training of pharmacists here, by providing an extended, more clinically-led, career long framework of education and training. This will lead to the wider adoption of prescribing rights, further development of clinical leadership and expansion of consultant pharmacist roles for qualified pharmacists. Furthermore my Department will be launching a consultation of the statutory regulation of pharmacy technicians. This will create a new profession of specially trained workers who will expand the skill mix within pharmacy teams and facilitate an expansion of clinical roles for pharmacists.","answerHtml":"My Department published its Pharmacy Workforce Review and associated Action Plan on 9th November 2020. The Review contains an analysis of the current pharmacy workforce in Northern Ireland. The Action Plan sets out a suite of proposed actions against each of the recommendations made in the report, including a number of actions around how to increase the number of pharmacists and community pharmacists in Northern Ireland. A Steering Group has since been established to oversee implementation of the Action Plan. A copy of the published report and Action Plan can be viewed at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/pharmacy-workforce-review-2019
A pharmacy workforce attract, retain and recruit campaign was launched in November 2020 by the Pharmacy Forum NI. In partnership with the Department, the aim is to attract qualified pharmacists from other jurisdictions to take up employment opportunities in Northern Ireland, as well as seeking to encourage newly qualified pre-registration pharmacists to remain here and promote vacancies across all settings and locations including rural. A successful virtual careers event was held last summer to attract school leavers to Pharmacy courses and a support network of Pharmacy Champions has now been established across Northern Ireland. In addition, Belfast Healthy Cities have developed and are piloting a Pharmacy Schools Programme to promote the role of the Pharmacist to primary school pupils, for roll out this year.
In addition, my Department is working also with the Department for the Economy and local universities to ensure that the necessary number of pharmacy graduates are available to meet workforce demands, which has included developing options to increase the number of pharmacist undergraduates studying in our universities. To help retain students in Northern Ireland to complete their foundation training, remuneration for community pharmacy placements was once again increased this year.
My Department is also providing significant funding to support the introduction of the new UK wide regulatory reforms to transform the initial education and training of pharmacists here, by providing an extended, more clinically-led, career long framework of education and training. This will lead to the wider adoption of prescribing rights, further development of clinical leadership and expansion of consultant pharmacist roles for qualified pharmacists. Furthermore my Department will be launching a consultation of the statutory regulation of pharmacy technicians. This will create a new profession of specially trained workers who will expand the skill mix within pharmacy teams and facilitate an expansion of clinical roles for pharmacists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030857%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371626","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371626"}},{"id":"371420","reference":"AQW 30742/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-09","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the number of additional domestic properties in Limavady that could be accommodated by current water infrastructure; and (ii) how many of these have been earmarked as properties given planning permission but not yet connected.","answerText":"(i)NI Water has advised that there are no water supply infrastructure restrictions affecting Limavady. There is adequate provision of water supply for any proposed developments that gain planning approval, to be connected to the water supply network. Furthermore, NI Water's 25-year Water Resource and Supply Resilience Plan, published in June 2020, identified no issues within the Limavady area that may affect future water supply connections; and\n\n(ii)Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is the local planning authority for the Limavady area and is therefore best placed to provide information regarding planning approvals for residential development.","answerHtml":"(i)NI Water has advised that there are no water supply infrastructure restrictions affecting Limavady. There is adequate provision of water supply for any proposed developments that gain planning approval, to be connected to the water supply network. Furthermore, NI Water's 25-year Water Resource and Supply Resilience Plan, published in June 2020, identified no issues within the Limavady area that may affect future water supply connections; and
(ii)Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is the local planning authority for the Limavady area and is therefore best placed to provide information regarding planning approvals for residential development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030742%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371420","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371420"}},{"id":"371419","reference":"AQW 30741/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-09","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether NI Water are currently providing pre-development reports on the sewerage capacity in Limavady, should a potential developer request one; and (ii) what steps she has taken to inform prospective property developers in this area of any limits on capacity that could affect the granting of their planning application.","answerText":"(i)NI Water continues to provide Pre-Development Enquiry (PDE) responses, if requested by developers, for Limavady, as with any location in Northern Ireland. Depending on the wastewater capacity of NI Water’s assets, the PDE response could highlight that a wastewater impact assessment may be required.\n\n(ii)NI Water has undertaken an extensive communication process to inform developers, of wastewater capacity issues. This has involved meeting with key stakeholders, industry bodies and a significant number of individual developers, their agents and designers. This included developers in the Limavady area and has been part of a consistent message under NI Water’s Drains before Cranes campaign over recent years.\n\nNI Water is committed to working with developers to consider ways of accommodating development, wherever possible, and strongly encourages developers to engage with it as early as possible through its Pre-Development Enquiry (PDE) process, to determine if there is an issue with wastewater treatment capacity in the area. This early engagement will help to identify potential problems and enable developers to work with NI Water in an effort to find solutions to facilitate new connections.","answerHtml":"(i)NI Water continues to provide Pre-Development Enquiry (PDE) responses, if requested by developers, for Limavady, as with any location in Northern Ireland. Depending on the wastewater capacity of NI Water’s assets, the PDE response could highlight that a wastewater impact assessment may be required.
(ii)NI Water has undertaken an extensive communication process to inform developers, of wastewater capacity issues. This has involved meeting with key stakeholders, industry bodies and a significant number of individual developers, their agents and designers. This included developers in the Limavady area and has been part of a consistent message under NI Water’s Drains before Cranes campaign over recent years.
NI Water is committed to working with developers to consider ways of accommodating development, wherever possible, and strongly encourages developers to engage with it as early as possible through its Pre-Development Enquiry (PDE) process, to determine if there is an issue with wastewater treatment capacity in the area. This early engagement will help to identify potential problems and enable developers to work with NI Water in an effort to find solutions to facilitate new connections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030741%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371419","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371419"}},{"id":"371418","reference":"AQW 30740/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-09","answerBy":"2022-03-25","answered":"2022-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how he will ensure undergraduate students studying at universities and colleges outside of the two largest cities will be afforded equal opportunity to avail of the 160 Civil Service student placements.","answerText":"Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria for the Student Placement competition is welcome to apply. Whilst the majority of placements are in the Greater Belfast area, there are also a number of placements in other office locations across a range of council areas. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the move to a hybrid working approach may mean some of these placements also have an element of home-working in operation.","answerHtml":"Anyone who meets the eligibility criteria for the Student Placement competition is welcome to apply. Whilst the majority of placements are in the Greater Belfast area, there are also a number of placements in other office locations across a range of council areas. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic and the move to a hybrid working approach may mean some of these placements also have an element of home-working in operation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030740%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371418","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371418"}},{"id":"371292","reference":"AQW 30674/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-08","answerBy":"2022-03-24","answered":"2022-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the provision of, and treatment being offered at, long Covid clinics; and (ii) for his assessment of the success of these clinics in treating the illness and its symptoms.","answerText":"I fully recognise the need to provide support to all those who are dealing with longer term health impacts as a result of COVID-19 infection and on 1st November 2021, I launched the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome. The PCS services comprise a number of separate strands as follows:\n\nStrand 1 - One-Stop-Shop Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Assessment Service\n\nPatients can be referred to the MDT assessment clinic from primary and secondary care. The majority of diagnostic tests are expected to have been completed prior to referral in order to rule out other causes for the patient’s symptoms. However, patients will receive an holistic assessment to include identifying patients with breathlessness who may benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation; and those who may need onward referral to secondary or community services and/or signposting to self-management resources. A Lead GP or senior hospital doctor also supports the MDT as appropriate in deciding on further investigation and onward referral.\n\nStrand 2 - Bespoke pulmonary rehabilitation / dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms post-COVID-19\n\nThe purpose of this strand is to put in place timely, effective arrangements for outpatient rehabilitation for those individuals with PCS which has resulted in significant respiratory symptoms. However, most patients do not commence pulmonary rehabilitation until at least 12 weeks post COVID-19, unless otherwise clinically indicated.\n\nStrand 3 - Patients discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19)\n\nThe purpose of this strand is to ensure timely and effective arrangements for the follow-up and assessment of people discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19), reflecting the known risk of long-term sequelae following a long stay in critical care.\n\nStrand 4 - Strengthening Psychology Support to all Trusts\n\nThe psychological impact of COVID-19 (depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, traumatic bereavement, psychosis, risk to self and/or others) is recognised in extant national guidance. Each HSC Trust has been supported to recruit an additional senior psychologist, with their main role supporting Strand 3, but also providing advice to staff working in Strands 1 and 2.\n\nStrand 5 - Signposting and access to self-management resources\n\nPatients in Northern Ireland can access self-management resources which include the NHS App Your Covid Recovery (Managing The Effects | Your COVID Recovery) and a locally-developed document developed within Northern Ireland by Allied Health Professional (AHP) staff (https://view.pagetiger.com/longcoviddigitalsupport).\n\nSince the launch of the first PCS in November 2021, one-stop-shop multidisciplinary assessment clinics have been accepting referrals for post-COVID-19 syndrome across all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust areas, with a total of 982 referrals up to the end of January 2022.\n\nWe are continuing to work to understand PCS however, we do know that the condition is very complex with more than one body system affected and individuals can have unique combinations of fluctuating symptoms.\n\nIt is planned that an evaluation of these services will be undertaken in 2022/23.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the need to provide support to all those who are dealing with longer term health impacts as a result of COVID-19 infection and on 1st November 2021, I launched the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for Post-COVID-19 Syndrome. The PCS services comprise a number of separate strands as follows:
Strand 1 - One-Stop-Shop Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Assessment Service
Patients can be referred to the MDT assessment clinic from primary and secondary care. The majority of diagnostic tests are expected to have been completed prior to referral in order to rule out other causes for the patient’s symptoms. However, patients will receive an holistic assessment to include identifying patients with breathlessness who may benefit from pulmonary rehabilitation; and those who may need onward referral to secondary or community services and/or signposting to self-management resources. A Lead GP or senior hospital doctor also supports the MDT as appropriate in deciding on further investigation and onward referral.
Strand 2 - Bespoke pulmonary rehabilitation / dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms post-COVID-19
The purpose of this strand is to put in place timely, effective arrangements for outpatient rehabilitation for those individuals with PCS which has resulted in significant respiratory symptoms. However, most patients do not commence pulmonary rehabilitation until at least 12 weeks post COVID-19, unless otherwise clinically indicated.
Strand 3 - Patients discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19)
The purpose of this strand is to ensure timely and effective arrangements for the follow-up and assessment of people discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19), reflecting the known risk of long-term sequelae following a long stay in critical care.
Strand 4 - Strengthening Psychology Support to all Trusts
The psychological impact of COVID-19 (depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, traumatic bereavement, psychosis, risk to self and/or others) is recognised in extant national guidance. Each HSC Trust has been supported to recruit an additional senior psychologist, with their main role supporting Strand 3, but also providing advice to staff working in Strands 1 and 2.
Strand 5 - Signposting and access to self-management resources
Patients in Northern Ireland can access self-management resources which include the NHS App Your Covid Recovery (Managing The Effects | Your COVID Recovery) and a locally-developed document developed within Northern Ireland by Allied Health Professional (AHP) staff (https://view.pagetiger.com/longcoviddigitalsupport).
Since the launch of the first PCS in November 2021, one-stop-shop multidisciplinary assessment clinics have been accepting referrals for post-COVID-19 syndrome across all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust areas, with a total of 982 referrals up to the end of January 2022.
We are continuing to work to understand PCS however, we do know that the condition is very complex with more than one body system affected and individuals can have unique combinations of fluctuating symptoms.
It is planned that an evaluation of these services will be undertaken in 2022/23.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030674%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371292"}},{"id":"371291","reference":"AQW 30673/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-08","answerBy":"2022-03-24","answered":"2022-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what work he is doing to (i) encourage; and (ii) facilitate businesses to use outside spaces, including via district council’s Licensing of Pavement Cafés scheme.","answerText":"Use of outside spaces is not within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"Use of outside spaces is not within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030673%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371291"}},{"id":"371086","reference":"AQW 30616/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of cyber-attacks on the NI Civil Service in each of the last five years.","answerText":"It is not possible to say how many cyber attacks there have been against the NICS in each year. However the number of hostile events blocked by the NICS Network firewalls are a good indication of the scale of the matter.\n\nOver a 30 day period which is representative of recurring monthly figures 604,080 items have been blocked from entering the NICS Network, each one representing a possible cyber attack.\n\nThe NICS technical infrastructure blocks between 80-100 million emails per month from entering the NICS email domain. A large portion of these emails are likely to contain malicious cyber threats.","answerHtml":"It is not possible to say how many cyber attacks there have been against the NICS in each year. However the number of hostile events blocked by the NICS Network firewalls are a good indication of the scale of the matter.
Over a 30 day period which is representative of recurring monthly figures 604,080 items have been blocked from entering the NICS Network, each one representing a possible cyber attack.
The NICS technical infrastructure blocks between 80-100 million emails per month from entering the NICS email domain. A large portion of these emails are likely to contain malicious cyber threats.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030616%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371086","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371086"}},{"id":"371085","reference":"AQW 30615/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on work being done to expand the electric vehicle charge point network; and (ii) what discussions she has had with private businesses and local councils to explore their potential involvement in this expansion.","answerText":"My response to AQW 30613/17-22 also refers and provides an update on the work being done to expand the electric vehicle charge point network. I have also held discussions with private businesses and local councils to explore their potential involvement in this expansion. I have met with the Director of the Confederation of British Industry NI (CBI NI) and other related stakeholders. My officials meet regularly with representatives from our local councils and my Department is represented, in an advisory capacity, on an On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS) council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My Department is also represented on the Review Group for the FASTER project which will install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. The FASTER project includes as associate partners representation from our local councils and recently my Department was represented as a speaker at a FASTER public event held in Monaghan. I would also re-iterate some elements of my response to AQW 30613/17-22.\n\nI have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have met with British Government ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/ councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). My Department is represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium which is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.\n\nI have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. The Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. The locations for the charge points have not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected that 20-30 of these will be located in the North.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"My response to AQW 30613/17-22 also refers and provides an update on the work being done to expand the electric vehicle charge point network. I have also held discussions with private businesses and local councils to explore their potential involvement in this expansion. I have met with the Director of the Confederation of British Industry NI (CBI NI) and other related stakeholders. My officials meet regularly with representatives from our local councils and my Department is represented, in an advisory capacity, on an On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS) council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My Department is also represented on the Review Group for the FASTER project which will install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. The FASTER project includes as associate partners representation from our local councils and recently my Department was represented as a speaker at a FASTER public event held in Monaghan. I would also re-iterate some elements of my response to AQW 30613/17-22.
I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have met with British Government ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/ councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). My Department is represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium which is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.
I have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. The Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. The locations for the charge points have not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected that 20-30 of these will be located in the North.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030615%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371085","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371085"}},{"id":"371084","reference":"AQW 30614/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, including (i) meeting regularity; (ii) stakeholders included; (iii) aims and objectives; and (iv) achievements to date.","answerText":"I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry, and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. The Task Force is a sub group of the Transport Working Group, which is taking forward the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy.\n\nIn developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. Two meetings of the Task-Force have been held to date. Members have agreed a Terms of Reference for the Task-Force and have committed to meeting regularly to discuss and produce an action plan by autumn 2022 and work is ongoing to meet this aim.\n\nStakeholders come from a range of organisations that cover many areas of transport, government, and public interest. They are my Department, Department for the Economy, ESB, NIE Networks, Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, EVANI, the Utility Regulator, Derry City and Strabane District Council, and Confederation of British Industry (Northern Ireland).\n\nThe current electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated by it on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in Northern Ireland. ESB can be contacted directly, in respect of its charge point network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.\n\nI am also taking a number of actions to enhance our public charge point infrastructure and these are set out below.\n\nI have met with ESB to encourage it to repair non-functioning charge points. ESB completed its replacement programme in Nov 2021 to replace 30 AC Fast charge posts (60 charge points) and to upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points, it has received very positive feedback. It has also more recently replaced a number of Rapid chargers. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.\n\nESB announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available. This project will double the existing number of Rapid chargers and will also see the introduction of high power (200kW) charging for the first time in the North through the delivery of five high power charging (200kW) hubs in strategic locations. These high-power charging hubs can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and can provide an EV with 100km of range in as little as six minutes. ESB made a presentation about its charge point network at a recent meeting of the ORCS council consortium.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring across the North. I have also introduced changes to the planning system, which came into operation on 21 December 2020 and have been liaising with British Government Ministers in respect of future funding for our charge point network.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/ councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application.\n\nI am encouraging councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Blue Green Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium which is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.\n\nMy Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Energy Strategy has recently been published and includes actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publicly available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach which is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.\n\nI am pleased to have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. My Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. I understand the locations for the charge points has not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected between 20-30 of these will be located in the North.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have met with British Government ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry, and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. The Task Force is a sub group of the Transport Working Group, which is taking forward the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy.
In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. Two meetings of the Task-Force have been held to date. Members have agreed a Terms of Reference for the Task-Force and have committed to meeting regularly to discuss and produce an action plan by autumn 2022 and work is ongoing to meet this aim.
Stakeholders come from a range of organisations that cover many areas of transport, government, and public interest. They are my Department, Department for the Economy, ESB, NIE Networks, Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, EVANI, the Utility Regulator, Derry City and Strabane District Council, and Confederation of British Industry (Northern Ireland).
The current electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated by it on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in Northern Ireland. ESB can be contacted directly, in respect of its charge point network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.
I am also taking a number of actions to enhance our public charge point infrastructure and these are set out below.
I have met with ESB to encourage it to repair non-functioning charge points. ESB completed its replacement programme in Nov 2021 to replace 30 AC Fast charge posts (60 charge points) and to upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points, it has received very positive feedback. It has also more recently replaced a number of Rapid chargers. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.
ESB announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available. This project will double the existing number of Rapid chargers and will also see the introduction of high power (200kW) charging for the first time in the North through the delivery of five high power charging (200kW) hubs in strategic locations. These high-power charging hubs can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and can provide an EV with 100km of range in as little as six minutes. ESB made a presentation about its charge point network at a recent meeting of the ORCS council consortium.
I fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring across the North. I have also introduced changes to the planning system, which came into operation on 21 December 2020 and have been liaising with British Government Ministers in respect of future funding for our charge point network.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/ councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application.
I am encouraging councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Blue Green Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium which is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.
My Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Energy Strategy has recently been published and includes actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publicly available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach which is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.
I am pleased to have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. My Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. I understand the locations for the charge points has not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected between 20-30 of these will be located in the North.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have met with British Government ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030614%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371084"}},{"id":"371083","reference":"AQW 30613/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the current provision of electric vehicle charge points, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The current electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated by it on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in Northern Ireland. ESB can be contacted directly, regarding the information you are seeking in respect of its charge point network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.\n\nThe following information includes actions I am taking to enhance our public charge point infrastructure as set out below.\n\nI have met with ESB to encourage it to repair non-functioning charge points. ESB completed its replacement programme in November 2021 to replace 30 AC Fast charge posts (60 charge points) and to upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points, it has received very positive feedback. It has also more recently replaced a number of Rapid chargers. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.\n\nESB announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available. This project will double the existing number of Rapid chargers and will also see the introduction of high power (200kW) charging for the first time in the North through the delivery of five high power charging (200kW) hubs in strategic locations. These high-power charging hubs can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and can provide an EV with 100km of range in as little as six minutes. ESB made a presentation about its charge point network at a recent meeting of the ORCS council consortium.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring across the North. I am taking a number of actions in respect of charge point infrastructure, including the introduction of changes to the planning system, which came into operation on 21 December 2020 and liaising with British Government Ministers in respect of future funding for our charge point network.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/ councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application.\n\nI am encouraging councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Blue Green Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium which is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.\n\nMy Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Energy Strategy has recently been published and includes actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publicly available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach which is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.\n\nYou will be aware, I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. Derry City and Strabane District Council, which leads on the ORCS Council Consortium, is a member of the EV Infrastructure Task-Force representing local councils.\n\nI am pleased to have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. My Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. I understand the locations for the charge points has not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected between 20-30 of these will be located in the North. Derry City and Strabane District Council, which leads on the ORCS Council Consortium, is liaising closely with representatives of the FASTER project.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have met with British Government ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"The current electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated by it on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in Northern Ireland. ESB can be contacted directly, regarding the information you are seeking in respect of its charge point network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.
The following information includes actions I am taking to enhance our public charge point infrastructure as set out below.
I have met with ESB to encourage it to repair non-functioning charge points. ESB completed its replacement programme in November 2021 to replace 30 AC Fast charge posts (60 charge points) and to upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points, it has received very positive feedback. It has also more recently replaced a number of Rapid chargers. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.
ESB announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available. This project will double the existing number of Rapid chargers and will also see the introduction of high power (200kW) charging for the first time in the North through the delivery of five high power charging (200kW) hubs in strategic locations. These high-power charging hubs can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and can provide an EV with 100km of range in as little as six minutes. ESB made a presentation about its charge point network at a recent meeting of the ORCS council consortium.
I fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring across the North. I am taking a number of actions in respect of charge point infrastructure, including the introduction of changes to the planning system, which came into operation on 21 December 2020 and liaising with British Government Ministers in respect of future funding for our charge point network.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/ councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application.
I am encouraging councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Blue Green Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium which is led by Derry City and Strabane District Council, set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.
My Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Energy Strategy has recently been published and includes actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publicly available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach which is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.
You will be aware, I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. Derry City and Strabane District Council, which leads on the ORCS Council Consortium, is a member of the EV Infrastructure Task-Force representing local councils.
I am pleased to have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. My Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. I understand the locations for the charge points has not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected between 20-30 of these will be located in the North. Derry City and Strabane District Council, which leads on the ORCS Council Consortium, is liaising closely with representatives of the FASTER project.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have met with British Government ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030613%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371083"}},{"id":"371082","reference":"AQW 30612/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-07","answerBy":"2022-03-23","answered":"2022-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 28732/17-22, what plans she has to (i) develop; and (ii) encourage a unified Relationships and Sexuality Education policy for all schools in order that every child has equal access to high quality information and guidance in this area of learning.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a mandatory element of the curriculum in both primary and post-primary schools. The statutory curriculum for Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU) at primary level and the Personal Development strand of Learning for Life and Work at post primary level includes prescribed content at each Key Stage in the area of RSE.\n\nMy Department has provided significant investment to support the development of new resources, which are available on the CCEA RSE Hub. The Hub ensures that schools have access to a range of high quality, up-to-date, relevant resources and sources of support on a range of sensitive issues. This can be reflected in each school’s RSE policy which should be agreed with Governors, parents and pupils.\n\nMy officials are also working with our educational partners to develop guidelines for schools highlighting the resources that are available and setting out the importance of embedding their use as a key part of the teaching of RSE. This will support teachers to feel confident in their teaching of these important issues.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a mandatory element of the curriculum in both primary and post-primary schools. The statutory curriculum for Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU) at primary level and the Personal Development strand of Learning for Life and Work at post primary level includes prescribed content at each Key Stage in the area of RSE.
My Department has provided significant investment to support the development of new resources, which are available on the CCEA RSE Hub. The Hub ensures that schools have access to a range of high quality, up-to-date, relevant resources and sources of support on a range of sensitive issues. This can be reflected in each school’s RSE policy which should be agreed with Governors, parents and pupils.
My officials are also working with our educational partners to develop guidelines for schools highlighting the resources that are available and setting out the importance of embedding their use as a key part of the teaching of RSE. This will support teachers to feel confident in their teaching of these important issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030612%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371082"}},{"id":"370895","reference":"AQW 30557/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-04","answerBy":"2022-03-22","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 29783/17-22, (i) whether the hourly pay rates provided are paid in addition to a worker’s baseline hourly wage, or instead of it; and (ii) to detail the normal hourly rates for the pay bands listed.","answerText":"The hourly rates outlined in the response to AQW 29783/17-22 are paid instead of the worker’s baseline hourly wage for the shift undertaken.\n\nThe hourly rates of pay for staff in Bands 1-8a, following the 3% increase that has been backdated to April 2021 are shown below (from the entry point to the top of the pay scale) ;\n\nPay band\tHourly Rate\n1\t£9.49\n2\t£9.49 - £10.19\n3\t£10.40 - £11.14\n4\t£11.53 - £12.73\n5\t£13.12 - £16.13\n6\t£16.52 - £19.96\n7\t£20.49 - £23.44\n8A\t£24.10 - £27.22","answerHtml":"The hourly rates outlined in the response to AQW 29783/17-22 are paid instead of the worker’s baseline hourly wage for the shift undertaken.
The hourly rates of pay for staff in Bands 1-8a, following the 3% increase that has been backdated to April 2021 are shown below (from the entry point to the top of the pay scale) ;
| Pay band | Hourly Rate |
| 1 | £9.49 |
| 2 | £9.49 - £10.19 |
| 3 | £10.40 - £11.14 |
| 4 | £11.53 - £12.73 |
| 5 | £13.12 - £16.13 |
| 6 | £16.52 - £19.96 |
| 7 | £20.49 - £23.44 |
| 8A | £24.10 - £27.22 |
While the Department of Education (DE) has statutory responsibility for schools and is the sponsor for the Education Authority (EA), the Department for the Economy (DfE) is the sponsoring department for the Further Education (FE) colleges, therefore each department has a distinct role and remit. My Department is currently working with the DE to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to 14-19 education and training provision.
The “Transition of Young People into Careers (14-19) Project” is undertaking this work on behalf of both Departments and has engaged with a wide range of stakeholders spanning a large number of sectors and organisations. This engagement was crucial in gaining support, identifying key challenges and building an evidence base which will support the development of an enhanced approach to 14-19 education and training.
The project has engaged with a number of Area Learning Communities through the auspices of the EA and has also undertaken a number of school visits. The project facilitated two workshops for school leaders in February 2020 to ensure the key challenges faced by schools in terms of 14-19 education were captured. A number of school leaders have approached the project directly to share their views and are also represented on the project’s Board along with representatives from the FE colleges.
A draft Framework and Action Plan has been developed and the Education Minister and I expect to be in a position to consider the draft Framework shortly.
Also, the FE colleges have developed communication, learner engagement, and recruitment strategies to ensure that stakeholders including young people and parents are better informed about the specialist, diverse, and high quality range of provision delivered by the FE sector.
A specific joint communications campaign, known as “FE for Me” has been developed by the six FE colleges, with the support of my Department, with the aim of building the profile of the FE sector and promoting FE as the first choice for professional and technical education. The campaign highlights the unique offering of the FE sector and the innovative FE products that set it apart from the offerings in the school and university sectors. It also promotes opportunities for school leavers provided by the six regional FE colleges, including full-time and part-time Higher Education courses and higher level apprenticeships.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030556%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370894","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370894"}},{"id":"370893","reference":"AQW 30555/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-04","answerBy":"2022-03-22","answered":"2022-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the (i) resources; and (ii) finances required to enforce laws designed to protect Northern Ireland’s blue carbon habitats.","answerText":"My Department is in the early stages of developing the blue carbon action plan for Northern Ireland. The action plan will be co-developed with stakeholders and concurrently my Department will be developing the business case for additional resources and finances that are required to implement the action plan. It is therefore too early in the process to make an assessment of the resources and finances that will be required for enforcement purposes.","answerHtml":"My Department is in the early stages of developing the blue carbon action plan for Northern Ireland. The action plan will be co-developed with stakeholders and concurrently my Department will be developing the business case for additional resources and finances that are required to implement the action plan. It is therefore too early in the process to make an assessment of the resources and finances that will be required for enforcement purposes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030555%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370893"}},{"id":"370892","reference":"AQW 30554/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-04","answerBy":"2022-03-22","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the total amount of the High Street Scheme funding (i) distributed to citizens per constituency; and (ii) spent in each constituency.","answerText":"Due to data protection regulations, the Department does not hold personally identifiable information for cardholders when it comes to spend and card issuance data. Therefore, it is not possible provide the information requested.\n\nHowever, the Department has recently published management information relating to regional spend and transactions (by Local Government Districts), which is available on the link below.\n\nhttps://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/management-information-northern-ireland-high-street-scheme-spend-local-cards-and-related-spend.","answerHtml":"Due to data protection regulations, the Department does not hold personally identifiable information for cardholders when it comes to spend and card issuance data. Therefore, it is not possible provide the information requested.
However, the Department has recently published management information relating to regional spend and transactions (by Local Government Districts), which is available on the link below.
https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/management-information-northern-ireland-high-street-scheme-spend-local-cards-and-related-spend.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030554%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370892","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370892"}},{"id":"370657","reference":"AQW 30502/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-03","answerBy":"2022-03-21","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities why people receiving Working Tax Credit were not included in the £200 Energy Payment Support Scheme.","answerText":"I refer the member to my statement in the Assembly on 1 March 2022.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to my statement in the Assembly on 1 March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030502%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370657"}},{"id":"370656","reference":"AQW 30501/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-03","answerBy":"2022-03-21","answered":"2022-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the nature and location of the blue carbon habitats identified in the East Londonderry constituency; (ii) the health of these habitats, compared to previous years; and (iii) what protection measures are being considered in order to protect them.","answerText":"The coastal area of the East Londonderry constituency is important for blue carbon habitats. There are extensive intertidal seagrass beds extending from the City of Derry airport to Bellarena. The extent is 218 hectares and the condition of the seagrass beds was assessed in 2014, 2017 and 2018 as being ‘High status’, which indicates there has been no detected change in abundance or extent due to anthropogenic activities. A survey was undertaken in 2021 and an updated assessment will be published later this year.\n\nLough Foyle also hosts important saltmarsh habitats in the Ballykelly area and the Roe estuary. The extent is 62 hectares and was assessed in 2004, 2010 and 2016 as being in ‘unfavourable condition’ due to the presence of the invasive species Spartina.\n\nThere are subtidal seagrass beds in the Skerries area off Portrush that extend to approximately 10 hectares. Surveys of the area undertaken in 2021 indicate the seagrass beds are in a healthy condition. There is no specific assessment of these seagrass beds because they are a component of the sandbank feature of Skerries and Causeway SAC. The sandbanks are in ‘favourable condition’.\n\nSteps have already been taken to develop protection measures for blue carbon habitats. This includes developing fishing regulations to provide protection for the seagrass beds located within the Skerries and Causeway Special Area of Conversation. The Department has also been undertaking Spartina control measures in Lough Foyle and other saltmarsh areas in Northern Ireland. However the condition of saltmarsh in Lough Foyle has not improved despite these efforts and therefore the Spartina control programme will need to be reviewed.\n\nTo help to protect and restore blue carbon habitats, I recently announced the development of a blue carbon action plan for Northern Ireland and this will include the co-development of protection measures through stakeholder focus groups.","answerHtml":"The coastal area of the East Londonderry constituency is important for blue carbon habitats. There are extensive intertidal seagrass beds extending from the City of Derry airport to Bellarena. The extent is 218 hectares and the condition of the seagrass beds was assessed in 2014, 2017 and 2018 as being ‘High status’, which indicates there has been no detected change in abundance or extent due to anthropogenic activities. A survey was undertaken in 2021 and an updated assessment will be published later this year.
Lough Foyle also hosts important saltmarsh habitats in the Ballykelly area and the Roe estuary. The extent is 62 hectares and was assessed in 2004, 2010 and 2016 as being in ‘unfavourable condition’ due to the presence of the invasive species Spartina.
There are subtidal seagrass beds in the Skerries area off Portrush that extend to approximately 10 hectares. Surveys of the area undertaken in 2021 indicate the seagrass beds are in a healthy condition. There is no specific assessment of these seagrass beds because they are a component of the sandbank feature of Skerries and Causeway SAC. The sandbanks are in ‘favourable condition’.
Steps have already been taken to develop protection measures for blue carbon habitats. This includes developing fishing regulations to provide protection for the seagrass beds located within the Skerries and Causeway Special Area of Conversation. The Department has also been undertaking Spartina control measures in Lough Foyle and other saltmarsh areas in Northern Ireland. However the condition of saltmarsh in Lough Foyle has not improved despite these efforts and therefore the Spartina control programme will need to be reviewed.
To help to protect and restore blue carbon habitats, I recently announced the development of a blue carbon action plan for Northern Ireland and this will include the co-development of protection measures through stakeholder focus groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030501%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370656"}},{"id":"370655","reference":"AQW 30500/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-03","answerBy":"2022-03-21","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the total amount of funding provided from (i) Northern Ireland; (ii) the UK; and (iii) EU sources, to Northern Ireland farmers, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spent almost £1.7 billion on funding to Northern Ireland farmers from 2016/17 to 2020/21. This is analysed in the table below:\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\tTotal\nPayments\t£m\t£m\t£m\t£m\t£m\t£m\nPillar 1 - EU\t275.5\t287.1\t290.5\t287.4\t(1.7)\t1,138.8\nPillar 2 - EU\t17.5\t13.7\t12.8\t16.8\t4.0\t64.8\nTotal EU\t293.0\t300.8\t303.3\t304.2\t2.3\t1,203.6\nPillar 1 - NI\t-\t-\t-\t-\t294.5\t294.5\nPillar 2 - NI\t11.7\t11.2\t9.8\t9.1\t3.6\t45.4\nTB Compensation - NI\t18.4\t23.0\t23.6\t19.5\t22.3\t106.8\nCovid-19 Grants - NI\t-\t-\t-\t-\t26.6\t26.6\nTotal NI Payments\t30.1\t34.2\t33.4\t28.6\t347.0\t473.3\nTotal Payments to Farmers\t323.1\t335.0\t336.7\t332.8\t349.3\t1,676.9\n\nAll Northern Ireland funding was provided by the UK government through the normal budgetary processes and there was no separate funding to farmers from GB departments during this period.","answerHtml":"The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs spent almost £1.7 billion on funding to Northern Ireland farmers from 2016/17 to 2020/21. This is analysed in the table below:
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | Total | |
| Payments | £m | £m | £m | £m | £m | £m |
| Pillar 1 - EU | 275.5 | 287.1 | 290.5 | 287.4 | (1.7) | 1,138.8 |
| Pillar 2 - EU | 17.5 | 13.7 | 12.8 | 16.8 | 4.0 | 64.8 |
| Total EU | 293.0 | 300.8 | 303.3 | 304.2 | 2.3 | 1,203.6 |
| Pillar 1 - NI | - | - | - | - | 294.5 | 294.5 |
| Pillar 2 - NI | 11.7 | 11.2 | 9.8 | 9.1 | 3.6 | 45.4 |
| TB Compensation - NI | 18.4 | 23.0 | 23.6 | 19.5 | 22.3 | 106.8 |
| Covid-19 Grants - NI | - | - | - | - | 26.6 | 26.6 |
| Total NI Payments | 30.1 | 34.2 | 33.4 | 28.6 | 347.0 | 473.3 |
| Total Payments to Farmers | 323.1 | 335.0 | 336.7 | 332.8 | 349.3 | 1,676.9 |
All Northern Ireland funding was provided by the UK government through the normal budgetary processes and there was no separate funding to farmers from GB departments during this period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030500%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370655"}},{"id":"370654","reference":"AQW 30499/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-03","answerBy":"2022-03-21","answered":"2022-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 29917/17-22, (i) for her assessment of the current capability of Ballykelly’s wastewater system; and (ii) to detail any remaining issues that have been identified with the system.","answerText":"(i)NI Water completed a £5 million upgrade to Ballykelly’s wastewater treatment works in October 2021. The works, which incorporate a solar energy system and integrated constructed wetlands, is a long-term, sustainable and resilient solution. It is now fully operational and has a design Population Equivalent (PE) of 5000.\n\n(ii)There are currently no remaining issues in the system and I would add that a significant stormwater project (c. £900k) was also completed approximately 3 years ago, which addressed a flooding issue affecting Hyacinth Avenue. This stormwater project also reduced flows to the works.","answerHtml":"(i)NI Water completed a £5 million upgrade to Ballykelly’s wastewater treatment works in October 2021. The works, which incorporate a solar energy system and integrated constructed wetlands, is a long-term, sustainable and resilient solution. It is now fully operational and has a design Population Equivalent (PE) of 5000.
(ii)There are currently no remaining issues in the system and I would add that a significant stormwater project (c. £900k) was also completed approximately 3 years ago, which addressed a flooding issue affecting Hyacinth Avenue. This stormwater project also reduced flows to the works.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030499%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370654"}},{"id":"370653","reference":"AQW 30498/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-03","answerBy":"2022-03-21","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on the work (a) required; (b) planned; (c) and funded for the Limavady wastewater system upgrade; and (ii) the timescales involved.","answerText":"(i) (a) NI Water has advised that the required upgrades to the Limavady wastewater catchment are included within Price Control 21 (2021-27). This involves the delivery of three projects, Bovally wastewater pumping station, Limavady catchment upgrades and Ballyclose Street Combined Sewer Overflow.\n\n(b)These 3 projects are currently planned to commence during 2022/23.\n\n(c) Approximately £5m has been allocated to undertake these three projects to upgrade the Limavady catchment area. This proposed investment is subject to funding availability.\n\n(ii) The commencement of these projects is dependent upon the receipt of all statutory approvals and land purchase. Once these requirements are in place, the construction period for these projects is currently estimated at 18 to 24 months.","answerHtml":"(i) (a) NI Water has advised that the required upgrades to the Limavady wastewater catchment are included within Price Control 21 (2021-27). This involves the delivery of three projects, Bovally wastewater pumping station, Limavady catchment upgrades and Ballyclose Street Combined Sewer Overflow.
(b)These 3 projects are currently planned to commence during 2022/23.
(c) Approximately £5m has been allocated to undertake these three projects to upgrade the Limavady catchment area. This proposed investment is subject to funding availability.
(ii) The commencement of these projects is dependent upon the receipt of all statutory approvals and land purchase. Once these requirements are in place, the construction period for these projects is currently estimated at 18 to 24 months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030498%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370653"}},{"id":"370722","reference":"AQO 3276/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-03","answerBy":"2022-03-15","answered":"2022-03-15","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to review GP contracts with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary care services.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"GPs are often the first point of contact for many people seeking diagnosis, treatment and support. They play an important role in promoting health and well-being, supporting people to manage long-term conditions and coordinating patient care across specialities and sectors. They have also played a significant role in our response to the pandemic. That has included operating primary care COVID centres, undertaking an extended flu vaccination programme and playing a key role in the roll-out of the COVID-19 vaccine programme. The general medical services (GMS) contract sets out the core elements of what GPs must provide to their patients. It is an agreed contract that covers all four nations of the United Kingdom. There is scope, however, for optional and enhanced services to be negotiated annually in Northern Ireland between the Department of Health and the Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee (GPC), and that allows us to identify local priorities for increased focus each year. Under the quality and outcomes framework (QOF), GP remuneration is tied to the provision of quality care against a range of clinically based indicators. At the outset of the pandemic, the Health and Social Care Board negotiated with the Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee and my Department to stand down the QOF elements of the GMS contract in order to enable GPs to respond to the escalation of COVID by establishing COVID centres without suffering financial detriment. My Department recently commenced engagement with the GPC on the GMS contract for 2022-23. The negotiations are at an early stage. It is important to note, however, that GPs have continued to have a responsibility to provide core services to their registered patients and that the pandemic has not, in any way, negated that requirement. The service has been working hard to make best use of available resources for everyone seeking to access the care that they need."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for his response. That was really helpful. A misunderstanding exists about how GPs are managed, in that they are, essentially, private organisations that deliver an NHS contract. Minister, I am sure that you appreciate that accessing GP services across Northern Ireland is an issue about which we, as MLAs, are regularly contacted. The fact that the issue is so widespread leads me to believe that it is systemic."},{"speaker":"","text":"I will ask you a hard question, given that this is probably your last Question Time: is the shortage of GPs due to your Department's poor workforce planning over 10 years?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for indicating that this will probably be my last Health Question Time in this mandate. I will miss it greatly. I do not put the blame for workforce planning and training at the feet of my Department. Having one-year non-recurrent budgets has made those challenges even more difficult. I fully recognise the need for additional GPs to be trained. As such, my Department, with the Health and Social Care Board and other stakeholders, has commenced work on reviewing the number of available training places for GPs in Northern Ireland. My Department has continued to invest in our GP workforce. It has increased the number of GP trainees by over 70% from 2015 levels. There are presently 111 new training places available for GPs each year. Work is under way to review the number of GP training places to ensure that we have the right number of GPs to meet our needs. That is part of a wider piece of work that my Department is taking forward to explore options for meeting our GP workforce needs in the most cost-effective way. It is important to note, however, that the increasing demand for primary care services cannot be met solely by increasing the number of GPs. It is also about other elements, including the wider roll-out of primary care multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) and the introduction of advanced nurse practitioners and additional general practice nurses. All that will make a difference to the way in which services are delivered in primary care and contribute to improved patient outcomes."},{"speaker":"Mr Gildernew","text":"Minister, people continue to struggle to get appointments to see their GP. That is causing extreme anxiety for patients and is putting additional pressure on services and GPs, especially in areas such as Trillick and Dromore. There are particular issues and knock-on impacts in the Fermanagh and South Tyrone and West Tyrone constituencies. Minister, when will the people of Fermanagh and South Tyrone and West Tyrone see extra health staff being deployed on the ground to support GPs in the roll-out of their work?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member. I nearly set him up by referencing MDTs; he has been pushing my officials on that issue at the Health Committee. I hope to be in a position within the next week to state where that roll-out will be. The Member mentioned GP services in the south-west. There have been significant GP workforce issues in the Western Trust area, particularly in the southern part. The Health and Social Care Board has been engaging with practices across the south-west area. My Department will continue to work closely with the Health and Social Care Board and GP representatives to consider how best to respond to the challenges that face general practices in Northern Ireland and to ensure that we have a GP workforce in Northern Ireland that is supported, motivated and sustainable, and that continues to provide quality care to patients. We want to encourage even more highly capable medical students to choose a career in general practice. We recognise that positive experiences during clinical placements can have a major influence on such decisions. The commencement of the graduate entry programme at the Ulster University medical school in Magee is a significant development in that regard. The curriculum of the graduate entry programme places a significant emphasis on primary care placements, with a high concentration on clinical placements in rural settings in the west. That will help to ensure that there is a supply of local students who wish to pursue a career in general practice in those areas. Other elements include the wider roll-out, as I said, of multidisciplinary teams, as well as the introduction of advanced nurse practitioners and additional general practice nurses, all of whom are making a difference."},{"speaker":"Mrs Cameron","text":"What discussions have the Minister and his Department had with pharmacists to ascertain what role Community Pharmacy will play in assisting GP services and moving forward the transformation of healthcare? Will Community Pharmacy be included in the Encompass roll-out next year?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member. I note her work as chair of the all-party group on community pharmacy and the engagement that she continues to have. I met the senior board and office bearers of Community Pharmacy last week to discuss how we look to the next three-year programme of work that it can do in partnership with us in the Department of Health and across the wider health sector. The Member is aware of Encompass, and I think that the Health Committee will receive an update in the near future on where that will be rolled out. The initial target is for it to be rolled out across all health and social care settings before we look at when it will be feasible and cost-effective to roll it out to the wider health family, which includes Community Pharmacy. The Member will also be aware that, in the meantime, we are looking at e-prescriptions, which can be easily transferred across all health sectors, especially into Community Pharmacy."},{"speaker":"Mr McGrath","text":"Knowing that the Minister loves Question Time so much, I submitted a question for urgent oral answer. That was accepted, and I will ask it later. On the theme of difficult questions, at the beginning of February, we submitted a question for priority written answer, which was to be answered within five days. It asked what percentage of the departmental budget is spent on general practice. Is that a difficult question to answer? Might you have that information to hand now?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I do not have that to hand now, but I will follow up on that for the Member."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203276%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370722","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-03-15&docID=371483#AQO%203276/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370722"}},{"id":"370483","reference":"AQW 30436/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-02","answerBy":"2022-03-07","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether (i) joint Universal Credit claimants will each receive £200 as part of the Energy Payment Support Scheme; and (ii) people in receipt of Housing Benefit will receive the payment.","answerText":"I refer the member to my statement in the Assembly on 1 March 2022.","answerHtml":"I refer the member to my statement in the Assembly on 1 March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030436%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370483"}},{"id":"370480","reference":"AQW 30433/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-02","answerBy":"2022-03-18","answered":"2022-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the implications of the recent sanctions on the Russian Federation for Northern Ireland businesses which currently trade there; and (ii) any support available from his Department for those businesses financially impacted by these sanctions.","answerText":"The purpose of the sanctions implemented by the UK Government, which I support, is to disrupt and isolate the Russian economy. Naturally, this will limit the ability of UK businesses to access the Russian market as normal. In that context Northern Ireland’s trade with Russian is small, accounting for less than 1% of the export and import of goods in 2020.\n\nMy officials are aware of some limited cases where NI businesses have experienced disruptions in connection with the sanctions against Russia. While these have not proved to be significant at this stage, they continue to monitor the situation closely.\n\nCompanies doing business with countries subject to sanctions must accept the risks of doing so, just as they accept other political and market risks. I would therefore encourage businesses to ensure that their activities are compliant with the current sanctions against Russia and seek legal advice if necessary. A range of information, advice and guidance is available on gov.uk, including through the Export Support Service and a dedicated Russia-Ukraine enquiry service.","answerHtml":"The purpose of the sanctions implemented by the UK Government, which I support, is to disrupt and isolate the Russian economy. Naturally, this will limit the ability of UK businesses to access the Russian market as normal. In that context Northern Ireland’s trade with Russian is small, accounting for less than 1% of the export and import of goods in 2020.
My officials are aware of some limited cases where NI businesses have experienced disruptions in connection with the sanctions against Russia. While these have not proved to be significant at this stage, they continue to monitor the situation closely.
Companies doing business with countries subject to sanctions must accept the risks of doing so, just as they accept other political and market risks. I would therefore encourage businesses to ensure that their activities are compliant with the current sanctions against Russia and seek legal advice if necessary. A range of information, advice and guidance is available on gov.uk, including through the Export Support Service and a dedicated Russia-Ukraine enquiry service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030433%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370480"}},{"id":"370479","reference":"AQW 30432/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-02","answerBy":"2022-03-18","answered":"2022-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for his assessment of the current cyber security threat to Northern Ireland; and (ii) whether this has been affected by the war in Ukraine.","answerText":"Threat Assessments provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) indicate local organisations are under continued attack from a range of threat actors. In 2021 NCSC dealt with 777 serious cyber incident of which over 40% targeted the public sector. The threat will continue to remain high.\n\nAssessments received from the National Cyber Security Centre indicate there is currently no evidence of any specific cyber threats to local organisations in relation to events in Ukraine.\n\nNICS are currently following the guidance provided by NCSC\n\nhttps://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/actions-to-take-when-the-cyber-threat-is-heightened","answerHtml":"Threat Assessments provided by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) indicate local organisations are under continued attack from a range of threat actors. In 2021 NCSC dealt with 777 serious cyber incident of which over 40% targeted the public sector. The threat will continue to remain high.
Assessments received from the National Cyber Security Centre indicate there is currently no evidence of any specific cyber threats to local organisations in relation to events in Ukraine.
NICS are currently following the guidance provided by NCSC
https://www.ncsc.gov.uk/guidance/actions-to-take-when-the-cyber-threat-is-heightened
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030432%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370479"}},{"id":"370257","reference":"AQW 30382/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-16","answered":"2022-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for an update on efforts to explore the installation of renewable energy-generating technology on public (i) buildings; and (ii) land, with a view to reducing energy costs long-term.","answerText":"My Department has recently completed a technical assessment on the installation of photovoltaic arrays for the generation of electricity at Coleraine County Hall, Ballymena County Hall and Rathkeltair House in Downpatrick and intends to proceed with these projects subject to statutory and business case approvals and availability of funding.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently completed a technical assessment on the installation of photovoltaic arrays for the generation of electricity at Coleraine County Hall, Ballymena County Hall and Rathkeltair House in Downpatrick and intends to proceed with these projects subject to statutory and business case approvals and availability of funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030382%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370257"}},{"id":"370256","reference":"AQW 30381/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-16","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of the amount of time children spend studying foreign languages during their time at school; (ii) to detail the accepted (a) educational; and (b) developmental benefits that are derived from studying foreign languages in school; and (iii) for her assessment of introducing modern languages into the Northern Ireland Curriculum Primary.","answerText":"My Department does not gather information on the amount of time pupils spend studying foreign languages. However, the 2021 British Council’s Language Trends in Northern Ireland Survey indicated that approximately 80% of responding schools allocate 1-3 hours per week at Key Stage 3, for the teaching of languages. At Key Stage 4, the survey indicated that approximately 76% of responding schools allocate 2–3 hours per week to GCSE languages. Schools have the flexibility to design their curriculum to meet the needs of their pupils and the time allotted to modern languages will therefore vary from school to school.\n\nLearning modern languages offer a wide range of educational cognitive as well as social and economic benefits and young learners have a particular capacity to learn a new language successfully. That is why modern languages are a compulsory element of the Key Stage 3 curriculum.\n\nWhilst languages are not a compulsory element of the primary curriculum, many primary schools currently offer additional language opportunities. I have no plans at present to introduce modern languages as a compulsory element of the primary curriculum rather the focus of my Department is to build teacher confidence and capacity in this area. My Department provides earmarked funding of around £480,000 per annum to support the development of languages. This includes supporting the Confucius Institute Classroom Programme which provides Mandarin language lessons to around 20,000 pupils in primary and post-primary schools across Northern Ireland. In addition, my Department funds the Northern Ireland Centre for Information on Language Teaching and Research (NICILT) to promote languages to pupils and provide a range of professional development opportunities for modern language teachers.","answerHtml":"My Department does not gather information on the amount of time pupils spend studying foreign languages. However, the 2021 British Council’s Language Trends in Northern Ireland Survey indicated that approximately 80% of responding schools allocate 1-3 hours per week at Key Stage 3, for the teaching of languages. At Key Stage 4, the survey indicated that approximately 76% of responding schools allocate 2–3 hours per week to GCSE languages. Schools have the flexibility to design their curriculum to meet the needs of their pupils and the time allotted to modern languages will therefore vary from school to school.
Learning modern languages offer a wide range of educational cognitive as well as social and economic benefits and young learners have a particular capacity to learn a new language successfully. That is why modern languages are a compulsory element of the Key Stage 3 curriculum.
Whilst languages are not a compulsory element of the primary curriculum, many primary schools currently offer additional language opportunities. I have no plans at present to introduce modern languages as a compulsory element of the primary curriculum rather the focus of my Department is to build teacher confidence and capacity in this area. My Department provides earmarked funding of around £480,000 per annum to support the development of languages. This includes supporting the Confucius Institute Classroom Programme which provides Mandarin language lessons to around 20,000 pupils in primary and post-primary schools across Northern Ireland. In addition, my Department funds the Northern Ireland Centre for Information on Language Teaching and Research (NICILT) to promote languages to pupils and provide a range of professional development opportunities for modern language teachers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030381%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370256"}},{"id":"370255","reference":"AQW 30380/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-03-01","answerBy":"2022-03-16","answered":"2022-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what work he is doing with organisations supporting people in financial difficulties in order to assess, intervene and treat those people who are suffering from mental ill-health as a result.","answerText":"People who have mental health needs as a result of financial difficulties have access to the full range of Mental Health services within the Health and Social Care system.\n\nI published a new Mental Health Strategy 2021–31 in June 2021, which introduces 35 actions to reform our mental health services to ensure that our population has access to the care and treatment they need when they need it,\n\nThe Strategy promotes mental wellbeing, resilience and good mental health across society. In particular, Action 3 aims to increase the support available to individuals, families and communities to address the social factors that impact on their mental health, while Action 4 seeks to work with delivery partners across Government and the health and social care system, to maximise the availability and use of a range of social wellbeing supports, including social prescribing, to encourage and support mental wellbeing and positive mental health.\n\nDelivery of these actions and the wider Mental Health Strategy is dependent on securing additional funding from outside the Department of Health. I was pleased to see prioritisation of mental health funding in the Executive’s Draft Budget 2022-25 when it was launched for public consultation. It is important that budgets are confirmed as soon as possible to allow full implementation of the Strategy to be progressed.","answerHtml":"People who have mental health needs as a result of financial difficulties have access to the full range of Mental Health services within the Health and Social Care system.
I published a new Mental Health Strategy 2021–31 in June 2021, which introduces 35 actions to reform our mental health services to ensure that our population has access to the care and treatment they need when they need it,
The Strategy promotes mental wellbeing, resilience and good mental health across society. In particular, Action 3 aims to increase the support available to individuals, families and communities to address the social factors that impact on their mental health, while Action 4 seeks to work with delivery partners across Government and the health and social care system, to maximise the availability and use of a range of social wellbeing supports, including social prescribing, to encourage and support mental wellbeing and positive mental health.
Delivery of these actions and the wider Mental Health Strategy is dependent on securing additional funding from outside the Department of Health. I was pleased to see prioritisation of mental health funding in the Executive’s Draft Budget 2022-25 when it was launched for public consultation. It is important that budgets are confirmed as soon as possible to allow full implementation of the Strategy to be progressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030380%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370255"}},{"id":"370032","reference":"AQW 30318/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-28","answerBy":"2022-03-15","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the rate of death from lung and pulmonary conditions in Northern Ireland, compared to rates in other parts of western Europe; and (ii) what steps he is taking to reduce this level.","answerText":"There is no agreed standard definition for deaths from lung and pulmonary conditions. For the purposes of answering this question and to allow for comparisons with other countries, age standardised death rates for (1) lung cancer and (2) diseases of the respiratory system have been provided below for Northern Ireland and other parts of Western Europe for the period 2016-2018. This data indicates a higher mortality rate for lung cancer and respiratory disease in Northern Ireland compared to the UK as a whole and the western European countries listed. Northern Ireland had a lower mortality rate for lung cancer in 2016-2018 compared to Scotland and the North East and North West of England. In relation to respiratory disease, Northern Ireland had a lower mortality rate in 2016-2018 compared to Scotland, the North East and North West of England and Wales.\n\nTable 1. Standardised Death Rate (per 100,000 population) – Lung Cancer\n\n2016-18\nNorth East England\t79.7\nScotland\t79.3\nNorth West England\t70.0\nNorthern Ireland\t66.4\nNetherlands\t64.8\nWales\t59.7\nUnited Kingdom (Overall)\t58.9\nEast Midlands England\t56.9\nBelgium\t56.2\nIreland\t56.2\nWest Midlands England\t55.3\nGermany\t50.2\nItaly\t48.8\nFrance\t48.6\nSouth East England\t48.0\nSpain\t47.9\nSouth West England\t46.5\nAustria\t46.1\nSwitzerland\t41.3\nPortugal\t37.3\n\nSource: Eurostat\n\nTable 2. Standardised Death Rate (per 100,000 population) – Respiratory Disease\n\n2016-18\nNorth East England\t162.4\nWales\t162.1\nNorth West England\t160.8\nScotland\t149.1\nNorthern Ireland\t144.2\nEast Midlands England\t138.1\nUnited Kingdom (Overall)\t137.8\nWest Midlands England\t137.3\nIreland\t134.9\nPortugal\t121.2\nSouth East England\t120.9\nSouth West England\t119.9\nBelgium\t105.6\nSpain\t99.2\nNetherlands\t84.8\nGermany\t74.4\nItaly\t65.9\nFrance\t58.8\nSwitzerland\t56.6\nAustria\t56.2\n\nSource: Eurostat\n\nA number of activities support the reduction of pulmonary and lung death rates in NI. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) commissions respiratory care in both acute and community settings across the whole of Northern Ireland as part of the overall Service and Budget Agreements with each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Recently the HSCB has established a Task and Finish Group to develop plans to support the recovery of respiratory outpatient services and to support Trusts in rebuilding respiratory services impacted by the pandemic. In primary care, the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) sets out a number of clinical indicators and guidance to support the treatment and care of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Asthma. A Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service (NILES) for Chronic Respiratory Conditions is also in place which GP practices can choose to sign up to. This builds on the QOF and seeks to contribute to both reducing pressure on secondary care and improving the long-term health and well-being of patients with Asthma and COPD.\n\nReducing deaths from lung and pulmonary conditions also requires sustained collaboration across departments and agencies, local government, the community and voluntary sector, and with communities themselves to address the factors which impact on health and wellbeing locally and regionally. Making Life Better (MLB) is the overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over their lives, and be enabled and supported to lead healthy lives. Departments continue to work together on a range of issues, including mitigating the impacts of poverty and tackling the conditions that create health inequalities. In terms of preventable lifestyle factors, one of the most significant impacts on lung health is from tobacco use. There is an extensive range of PHA commissioned Stop Smoking Services across Northern Ireland and these are provided through Health & Social Care Trusts, Community Pharmacies, GP Practices and Community and Voluntary sector partners. These services aim to help smokers to quit and are provided free of charge to the public.","answerHtml":"There is no agreed standard definition for deaths from lung and pulmonary conditions. For the purposes of answering this question and to allow for comparisons with other countries, age standardised death rates for (1) lung cancer and (2) diseases of the respiratory system have been provided below for Northern Ireland and other parts of Western Europe for the period 2016-2018. This data indicates a higher mortality rate for lung cancer and respiratory disease in Northern Ireland compared to the UK as a whole and the western European countries listed. Northern Ireland had a lower mortality rate for lung cancer in 2016-2018 compared to Scotland and the North East and North West of England. In relation to respiratory disease, Northern Ireland had a lower mortality rate in 2016-2018 compared to Scotland, the North East and North West of England and Wales.
Table 1. Standardised Death Rate (per 100,000 population) – Lung Cancer
| 2016-18 | |
| North East England | 79.7 |
| Scotland | 79.3 |
| North West England | 70.0 |
| Northern Ireland | 66.4 |
| Netherlands | 64.8 |
| Wales | 59.7 |
| United Kingdom (Overall) | 58.9 |
| East Midlands England | 56.9 |
| Belgium | 56.2 |
| Ireland | 56.2 |
| West Midlands England | 55.3 |
| Germany | 50.2 |
| Italy | 48.8 |
| France | 48.6 |
| South East England | 48.0 |
| Spain | 47.9 |
| South West England | 46.5 |
| Austria | 46.1 |
| Switzerland | 41.3 |
| Portugal | 37.3 |
Source: Eurostat
Table 2. Standardised Death Rate (per 100,000 population) – Respiratory Disease
| 2016-18 | |
| North East England | 162.4 |
| Wales | 162.1 |
| North West England | 160.8 |
| Scotland | 149.1 |
| Northern Ireland | 144.2 |
| East Midlands England | 138.1 |
| United Kingdom (Overall) | 137.8 |
| West Midlands England | 137.3 |
| Ireland | 134.9 |
| Portugal | 121.2 |
| South East England | 120.9 |
| South West England | 119.9 |
| Belgium | 105.6 |
| Spain | 99.2 |
| Netherlands | 84.8 |
| Germany | 74.4 |
| Italy | 65.9 |
| France | 58.8 |
| Switzerland | 56.6 |
| Austria | 56.2 |
Source: Eurostat
A number of activities support the reduction of pulmonary and lung death rates in NI. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) commissions respiratory care in both acute and community settings across the whole of Northern Ireland as part of the overall Service and Budget Agreements with each of the Health and Social Care Trusts. Recently the HSCB has established a Task and Finish Group to develop plans to support the recovery of respiratory outpatient services and to support Trusts in rebuilding respiratory services impacted by the pandemic. In primary care, the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) sets out a number of clinical indicators and guidance to support the treatment and care of patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Asthma. A Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service (NILES) for Chronic Respiratory Conditions is also in place which GP practices can choose to sign up to. This builds on the QOF and seeks to contribute to both reducing pressure on secondary care and improving the long-term health and well-being of patients with Asthma and COPD.
Reducing deaths from lung and pulmonary conditions also requires sustained collaboration across departments and agencies, local government, the community and voluntary sector, and with communities themselves to address the factors which impact on health and wellbeing locally and regionally. Making Life Better (MLB) is the overarching strategic framework for public health through which the Executive committed to creating the conditions for individuals, families and communities to take greater control over their lives, and be enabled and supported to lead healthy lives. Departments continue to work together on a range of issues, including mitigating the impacts of poverty and tackling the conditions that create health inequalities. In terms of preventable lifestyle factors, one of the most significant impacts on lung health is from tobacco use. There is an extensive range of PHA commissioned Stop Smoking Services across Northern Ireland and these are provided through Health & Social Care Trusts, Community Pharmacies, GP Practices and Community and Voluntary sector partners. These services aim to help smokers to quit and are provided free of charge to the public.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030318%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370032"}},{"id":"370030","reference":"AQW 30316/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-28","answerBy":"2022-03-15","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the needs and opportunities identified in the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area that will inform the Labour Market Partnership programme.","answerText":"My Department is leading the development of the Labour Market Partnership initiative through a collaborative Co-Design process with all 11 councils.\n\nA Local Labour Market Partnership is being established in the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough area led by the Council. The Partnership is currently developing its Action Plan for delivery in 2022-23, evidenced by statistical information and informed by local knowledge.\n\nThe overall aim for Local Labour Market Partnership action plans is to design, develop and implement a suite of bespoke, targeted and local projects focused around the themes of economic inactivity, long term unemployment, redundancies and skills deficits.","answerHtml":"My Department is leading the development of the Labour Market Partnership initiative through a collaborative Co-Design process with all 11 councils.
A Local Labour Market Partnership is being established in the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough area led by the Council. The Partnership is currently developing its Action Plan for delivery in 2022-23, evidenced by statistical information and informed by local knowledge.
The overall aim for Local Labour Market Partnership action plans is to design, develop and implement a suite of bespoke, targeted and local projects focused around the themes of economic inactivity, long term unemployment, redundancies and skills deficits.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030316%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370030"}},{"id":"370029","reference":"AQW 30315/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-28","answerBy":"2022-03-15","answered":"2022-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the initiatives he is progressing in order to increase the number of people with disabilities in employment, including graduates of colleges and universities.","answerText":"The Department for Communities (DfC) has policy responsibility for employment provision and is leading on the development of a new Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland. My officials have been working collaboratively with DfC colleagues on this to ensure that it aligns with, and complements, the strategic priorities and themes of the DfE Skills Strategy: Skills for a 10x Economy. An interim Skills Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Sub-committee has been established to ensure equality of opportunity, diversity and inclusion remain at the top of the education, skills and employability agenda as the Skills Strategy moves from development to implementation.\n\nSome examples of our current provision for those with disabilities who need additional support to be able to access our programmes are detailed below.\n\nMy Department’s vocational training programmes play a key role in helping young people, including those with disabilities, develop the skills they need to progress into employment. In addition to providing additional time and funding to help Training Providers support participants with disabilities my Department also funds specialist Disability Support Services to support those who require additional support to aid their participation and progression on the Training for Success, Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Support via Disability Support Services is available in the form of: Pre-Entry Training Support prior to the participant entering the Training for Success and Skills for Life and Work programmes; and In-Training Disability Support is available to support participation on all of these programmes.\n\nOne of my Department’s key strategic goals is to widen participation in Higher Education for students from those groups which are currently under represented.\n\nSupporting students with a disability to attend university or college to undertake higher education contributes to my Department’s Widening Participation Agenda. In supporting individuals through higher education, my Department provides Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). DSA is a grant to help pay for additional higher education study-related costs a student may have to incur as a direct result of their disability, mental-health condition (such as depression or anxiety) or specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia or dyspraxia). The allowances can help with the cost of a non-medical helper, items of specialist equipment, travel and other course-related costs.\n\nUnder the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 Further Education (FE) colleges are required to make reasonable adjustments for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD), so that they can access provision. The Department assists FE colleges in fulfilling this obligation by providing funding to support SLDD students through the Additional Support Fund (ASF). DfE provides £4.5 million funding to colleges annually to assist in the provision of additional support to enable students to complete a course of study and/or progress to further study, training, employment or to independent living.\n\nThe NI European Social Fund Programme in Northern Ireland aims to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity and increasing the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce. Of the 66 funded projects in Call 2 (2014-2022), 22 were specifically for those with disabilities and of the 67 projects under call 3, there will be 21 for those with disabilities.\n\nIn addition, other programmes which are supported by my Department, such as the Skill Up programme, are delivered primarily online, with feedback indicating that this helps address accessibility issues, while officials involved in other programmes, such as Assured Skills programme, regularly consider whether further steps can be taken to address potential barriers to participation.\n\nMy Department's Careers Service is available to provide personalise advice to all, regardless of age, employment status or ability, to help people make informed decisions about further learning, training and employment. Contact details for careers advisers are available at NI Direct / Careers.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities (DfC) has policy responsibility for employment provision and is leading on the development of a new Disability Employment Strategy for Northern Ireland. My officials have been working collaboratively with DfC colleagues on this to ensure that it aligns with, and complements, the strategic priorities and themes of the DfE Skills Strategy: Skills for a 10x Economy. An interim Skills Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Sub-committee has been established to ensure equality of opportunity, diversity and inclusion remain at the top of the education, skills and employability agenda as the Skills Strategy moves from development to implementation.
Some examples of our current provision for those with disabilities who need additional support to be able to access our programmes are detailed below.
My Department’s vocational training programmes play a key role in helping young people, including those with disabilities, develop the skills they need to progress into employment. In addition to providing additional time and funding to help Training Providers support participants with disabilities my Department also funds specialist Disability Support Services to support those who require additional support to aid their participation and progression on the Training for Success, Skills for Life and Work and ApprenticeshipsNI programmes. Support via Disability Support Services is available in the form of: Pre-Entry Training Support prior to the participant entering the Training for Success and Skills for Life and Work programmes; and In-Training Disability Support is available to support participation on all of these programmes.
One of my Department’s key strategic goals is to widen participation in Higher Education for students from those groups which are currently under represented.
Supporting students with a disability to attend university or college to undertake higher education contributes to my Department’s Widening Participation Agenda. In supporting individuals through higher education, my Department provides Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA). DSA is a grant to help pay for additional higher education study-related costs a student may have to incur as a direct result of their disability, mental-health condition (such as depression or anxiety) or specific learning difficulty (such as dyslexia or dyspraxia). The allowances can help with the cost of a non-medical helper, items of specialist equipment, travel and other course-related costs.
Under the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 Further Education (FE) colleges are required to make reasonable adjustments for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD), so that they can access provision. The Department assists FE colleges in fulfilling this obligation by providing funding to support SLDD students through the Additional Support Fund (ASF). DfE provides £4.5 million funding to colleges annually to assist in the provision of additional support to enable students to complete a course of study and/or progress to further study, training, employment or to independent living.
The NI European Social Fund Programme in Northern Ireland aims to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity and increasing the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce. Of the 66 funded projects in Call 2 (2014-2022), 22 were specifically for those with disabilities and of the 67 projects under call 3, there will be 21 for those with disabilities.
In addition, other programmes which are supported by my Department, such as the Skill Up programme, are delivered primarily online, with feedback indicating that this helps address accessibility issues, while officials involved in other programmes, such as Assured Skills programme, regularly consider whether further steps can be taken to address potential barriers to participation.
My Department's Careers Service is available to provide personalise advice to all, regardless of age, employment status or ability, to help people make informed decisions about further learning, training and employment. Contact details for careers advisers are available at NI Direct / Careers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030315%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370029"}},{"id":"369814","reference":"AQW 30252/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-25","answerBy":"2022-03-14","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the sustainability of the bed and breakfast and guesthouse industry; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to support these businesses.","answerText":"The B&B, guest house and guest accommodation sub-sector is an integral part of Northern Ireland’s accommodation offering for visitors. It represents 18.7% of the total accommodation stock currently holding a certificate under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.\n\nThe sub-sector experienced consistent positive growth between 2012 and 2019. While the COVID 19 pandemic of course had a significant negative impact, I am pleased that recent data indicates that there is good recovery with a 27% increase in rooms sold in November 2021 compared to November 2019. I am therefore optimistic that the sub-sector has a positive future as the wider tourism sector returns to the vibrant and successful industry it was pre-pandemic.\n\nMy Department therefore has no plans for any additional financial support for these businesses.","answerHtml":"The B&B, guest house and guest accommodation sub-sector is an integral part of Northern Ireland’s accommodation offering for visitors. It represents 18.7% of the total accommodation stock currently holding a certificate under the Tourism (Northern Ireland) Order 1992.
The sub-sector experienced consistent positive growth between 2012 and 2019. While the COVID 19 pandemic of course had a significant negative impact, I am pleased that recent data indicates that there is good recovery with a 27% increase in rooms sold in November 2021 compared to November 2019. I am therefore optimistic that the sub-sector has a positive future as the wider tourism sector returns to the vibrant and successful industry it was pre-pandemic.
My Department therefore has no plans for any additional financial support for these businesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030252%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369814","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369814"}},{"id":"369813","reference":"AQW 30251/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-25","answerBy":"2022-03-14","answered":"2022-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the Rural Needs Act Northern Ireland 2016 can be used to protect rural schools.","answerText":"Rural proofing has been a requirement for all Government departments in Northern Ireland since 2002 and has been an integral part of the policy development process. In 2016 the commitment to rural proofing was strengthened with the introduction of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016. The Act places a duty on Government departments to have due regard to rural needs when developing, adopting, implementing or revising policies, strategies and plans and when designing and delivering public services.\n\nRural proofing means having regard to the potential of a policy to impact differently on rural populations, in comparison with those living in urban areas. Proofing may help identify adjustments which might be made to reflect rural needs and ensure that services are accessible on a fair basis to rural communities.\n\nOn publication of a DP and where rural considerations are engaged, the Department as part of its assessment of evidence sets out its analysis of suitable, alternative, good-quality rural provision. Advice provided to inform a decision takes account of any pertinent statutory duties and, for smaller schools which tend to be located in rural areas, due regard is given to the requirements of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016.\n\nUnder “Schools for the Future: A Policy for sustainable schools” - the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) – a lower enrolment threshold has been set for primary schools serving rural areas (minimum enrolment of 105 compared to 140 for urban areas).\n\nI would like to see vibrant sustainable rural education provision, this will require genuine collaboration across all sectors. I have specifically asked my officials to develop a programme to support sustainable education provision in rural areas to see how it may work to keep education provision in a rural community.","answerHtml":"Rural proofing has been a requirement for all Government departments in Northern Ireland since 2002 and has been an integral part of the policy development process. In 2016 the commitment to rural proofing was strengthened with the introduction of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016. The Act places a duty on Government departments to have due regard to rural needs when developing, adopting, implementing or revising policies, strategies and plans and when designing and delivering public services.
Rural proofing means having regard to the potential of a policy to impact differently on rural populations, in comparison with those living in urban areas. Proofing may help identify adjustments which might be made to reflect rural needs and ensure that services are accessible on a fair basis to rural communities.
On publication of a DP and where rural considerations are engaged, the Department as part of its assessment of evidence sets out its analysis of suitable, alternative, good-quality rural provision. Advice provided to inform a decision takes account of any pertinent statutory duties and, for smaller schools which tend to be located in rural areas, due regard is given to the requirements of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016.
Under “Schools for the Future: A Policy for sustainable schools” - the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) – a lower enrolment threshold has been set for primary schools serving rural areas (minimum enrolment of 105 compared to 140 for urban areas).
I would like to see vibrant sustainable rural education provision, this will require genuine collaboration across all sectors. I have specifically asked my officials to develop a programme to support sustainable education provision in rural areas to see how it may work to keep education provision in a rural community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030251%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369813","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369813"}},{"id":"369812","reference":"AQW 30250/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-25","answerBy":"2022-03-14","answered":"2022-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 29920/17-22, to detail (i) the insurance implications for schools offering their facilities for community use; and (ii) what advice she can give to schools.","answerText":"My Department published a Guidance Toolkit on the community use of school premises in 2014 which provides advice for schools in dealing with the practical issues involved. It states that in any arrangement permitting such use, responsibility for the management, control and supervision of the activities being conducted should rest firmly with the user groups.\n\nThe Toolkit also advises that in order to protect the interests of the user groups and the school in respect of public liability claims, it is normal practice for user groups to hold commercial insurance in relation to public liability risks. All schools must ensure that third party user groups provide evidence that public liability insurance is held to cover the third party use of the school premises.\n\nThe Education Authority’s review of the community use of school arrangements, which has now commenced and is at an early stage, will include consideration of the need for public liability insurance and the advice to schools on this issue.","answerHtml":"My Department published a Guidance Toolkit on the community use of school premises in 2014 which provides advice for schools in dealing with the practical issues involved. It states that in any arrangement permitting such use, responsibility for the management, control and supervision of the activities being conducted should rest firmly with the user groups.
The Toolkit also advises that in order to protect the interests of the user groups and the school in respect of public liability claims, it is normal practice for user groups to hold commercial insurance in relation to public liability risks. All schools must ensure that third party user groups provide evidence that public liability insurance is held to cover the third party use of the school premises.
The Education Authority’s review of the community use of school arrangements, which has now commenced and is at an early stage, will include consideration of the need for public liability insurance and the advice to schools on this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030250%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369812","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369812"}},{"id":"369811","reference":"AQW 30249/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-25","answerBy":"2022-03-14","answered":"2022-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to provide domiciliary care to anyone who needs it.","answerText":"There remain challenges in the provision of domiciliary care across Trust areas. However, my Department continues to work to ensure the provision of a high quality care service that can effectively meet people’s assessed needs.\n\nTrusts continue to review their domiciliary care capacity, workforce rotas and waiting lists to ensure that every resource is effectively deployed for those in hospital or in the community who need care packages. Trusts also monitor and report on hospital and domiciliary care waiting lists to the Health and Social Care Board, which allows for regional oversight of this issue.\n\nWhile there are a range of factors which can impact upon the delivery of care ultimately the objective should be to meet the assessed needs of the service user, whether care is provided by the statutory or independent sector.\n\nAlthough this would ideally be within an individual’s own home, there are occasions where this demand cannot be met. To allow for this, charges for care home beds are currently being waived to allow people to leave hospital and wait for their community care package to be arranged in a care home setting, free of charge. This is an interim measure intended to support the wider Health and Social Care system.\n\nThe Department has also reviewed and re-issued the regional Direct Payments guidance, to simplify the process, make it less restrictive and make the option more attractive to prospective users.\n\nI have recognised the need for action to support the sector over the current challenging period and was therefore pleased to confirm a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff. This funding is being rolled out to providers through Trusts and there has been positive feedback on how this package has helped to stabilise the sector, and supported recruitment and retention.\n\nMy Department will continue to work in conjunction with all Trusts, the Health and Social Care Board, and providers, to ensure the Health and Social Care system continues to provide care for those who need it.","answerHtml":"There remain challenges in the provision of domiciliary care across Trust areas. However, my Department continues to work to ensure the provision of a high quality care service that can effectively meet people’s assessed needs.
Trusts continue to review their domiciliary care capacity, workforce rotas and waiting lists to ensure that every resource is effectively deployed for those in hospital or in the community who need care packages. Trusts also monitor and report on hospital and domiciliary care waiting lists to the Health and Social Care Board, which allows for regional oversight of this issue.
While there are a range of factors which can impact upon the delivery of care ultimately the objective should be to meet the assessed needs of the service user, whether care is provided by the statutory or independent sector.
Although this would ideally be within an individual’s own home, there are occasions where this demand cannot be met. To allow for this, charges for care home beds are currently being waived to allow people to leave hospital and wait for their community care package to be arranged in a care home setting, free of charge. This is an interim measure intended to support the wider Health and Social Care system.
The Department has also reviewed and re-issued the regional Direct Payments guidance, to simplify the process, make it less restrictive and make the option more attractive to prospective users.
I have recognised the need for action to support the sector over the current challenging period and was therefore pleased to confirm a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff. This funding is being rolled out to providers through Trusts and there has been positive feedback on how this package has helped to stabilise the sector, and supported recruitment and retention.
My Department will continue to work in conjunction with all Trusts, the Health and Social Care Board, and providers, to ensure the Health and Social Care system continues to provide care for those who need it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030249%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369811","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369811"}},{"id":"369810","reference":"AQW 30248/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-25","answerBy":"2022-03-14","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of (i) households; and (ii) individuals, currently in Housing Executive temporary housing in each constituency.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that they do not record data by Parliamentary constituency but record data on the basis of local Council Area.\n\nAs of 2 March 2022, there are 1,766 categorised as single person households and 1,831 categorised as households of 2 or more persons currently in Temporary Accommodation placements.\n\nThe table below outlines the breakdown of these total 3,597 placements in terms of Council Area as of 2 March 2022:\n\nTemporary Accommodation Placements made from Council Areas as of 2 March 2022\nCouncil Area\tSingle Person Households\tOther householdsof 2 or more persons\nAntrim & Newtownabbey\t63\t38\nArds & North Down\t62\t88\nArmagh, Banbridge& Craigavon\t69\t82\nBelfast\t743\t1,122\nCauseway & Glens\t69\t23\nDerry & Strabane\t330\t215\nFermanagh & Omagh\t94\t29\nLisburn & Castlereagh\t102\t76\nMid and East Antrim\t83\t34\nMid Ulster\t29\t42\nNewry & Down\t122\t82\nTotal\t1,766\t1,831\n\nNotes\n\nThe numbers cited refer to the local Council Area from which the placement was made rather than the local Council Area in which the placement was made to. Depending on the requirements of the applicant and the accommodation available at the time, placements may be made outside the Council Area in which the application was made. It should also be noted that data provided is taken from a “live” dataset and may be subject to change on a daily basis. They may not therefore align with any figures that may be published in due course.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that they do not record data by Parliamentary constituency but record data on the basis of local Council Area.
As of 2 March 2022, there are 1,766 categorised as single person households and 1,831 categorised as households of 2 or more persons currently in Temporary Accommodation placements.
The table below outlines the breakdown of these total 3,597 placements in terms of Council Area as of 2 March 2022:
| Temporary Accommodation Placements made from Council Areas as of 2 March 2022 | ||
| Council Area | Single Person Households | Other householdsof 2 or more persons |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey | 63 | 38 |
| Ards & North Down | 62 | 88 |
| Armagh, Banbridge& Craigavon | 69 | 82 |
| Belfast | 743 | 1,122 |
| Causeway & Glens | 69 | 23 |
| Derry & Strabane | 330 | 215 |
| Fermanagh & Omagh | 94 | 29 |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | 102 | 76 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 83 | 34 |
| Mid Ulster | 29 | 42 |
| Newry & Down | 122 | 82 |
| Total | 1,766 | 1,831 |
Notes
The numbers cited refer to the local Council Area from which the placement was made rather than the local Council Area in which the placement was made to. Depending on the requirements of the applicant and the accommodation available at the time, placements may be made outside the Council Area in which the application was made. It should also be noted that data provided is taken from a “live” dataset and may be subject to change on a daily basis. They may not therefore align with any figures that may be published in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030248%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369810","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369810"}},{"id":"369615","reference":"AQW 30216/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-11","answered":"2022-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to relieve the pressure on hospitals in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust area.","answerText":"In the first instance, it is for individual Trusts to manage service pressures. If pressures become unmanageable within a Trust, there are escalation procedures in place which allow for regional intervention facilitated by the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) and the NI Ambulance Service. This involves, for example, the use of temporary ambulance diverts.\n\nI recognise that hospitals and in particular EDs have been under significant and sustained pressure for a considerable period of time. To help with the management of these pressures, HSCB issued revised Unscheduled Care Escalation Guidance to the Trusts before Christmas.\n\nThe HSCB also facilitates daily compilation of Hospital Early Warning Scores (HEWS) data and hosts meetings three times per week with all Trusts to discuss system pressures. At times of heightened pressure, the HSCB facilitates an urgent regional Director level discussion– to ascertain if regional measures can be put in place to assist any Trust in difficulty.\n\nUnfortunately, pressures on urgent and emergency care are not new. I am intending to publish soon for public consultation the findings from the Review of Urgent and Emergency Care. However, there is no quick fix to the pressures currently being felt in our Emergency Departments and wider hospital system. Indeed, we need sustained investment in our services to improve the situation.","answerHtml":"In the first instance, it is for individual Trusts to manage service pressures. If pressures become unmanageable within a Trust, there are escalation procedures in place which allow for regional intervention facilitated by the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) and the NI Ambulance Service. This involves, for example, the use of temporary ambulance diverts.
I recognise that hospitals and in particular EDs have been under significant and sustained pressure for a considerable period of time. To help with the management of these pressures, HSCB issued revised Unscheduled Care Escalation Guidance to the Trusts before Christmas.
The HSCB also facilitates daily compilation of Hospital Early Warning Scores (HEWS) data and hosts meetings three times per week with all Trusts to discuss system pressures. At times of heightened pressure, the HSCB facilitates an urgent regional Director level discussion– to ascertain if regional measures can be put in place to assist any Trust in difficulty.
Unfortunately, pressures on urgent and emergency care are not new. I am intending to publish soon for public consultation the findings from the Review of Urgent and Emergency Care. However, there is no quick fix to the pressures currently being felt in our Emergency Departments and wider hospital system. Indeed, we need sustained investment in our services to improve the situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030216%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369615","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369615"}},{"id":"369614","reference":"AQW 30215/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-11","answered":"2022-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any data that has been collected in relation to drivers’ adherence to temporary 20mph speed zones outside schools.","answerText":"I have asked for a report on the effectiveness of the part-time 20mph speed limits at schools programme, which would include an assessment of any information from the PSNI on the adherence to the signs. It is envisaged this would be best carried out when the majority of the sites under tranches 1 and 2 are fully operational.","answerHtml":"I have asked for a report on the effectiveness of the part-time 20mph speed limits at schools programme, which would include an assessment of any information from the PSNI on the adherence to the signs. It is envisaged this would be best carried out when the majority of the sites under tranches 1 and 2 are fully operational.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030215%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369614","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369614"}},{"id":"369613","reference":"AQW 30214/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-11","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the use of methane-lowering food supplements for livestock.","answerText":"The Global Methane Pledge was signed up to by over 100 countries at COP 26. The pledge to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 will no doubt include a contribution from agriculture, as methane accounts for 66% of local emissions.\n\nThere is a considerable worldwide research effort being put into the development of seaweed based feed additives to reduce enteric methane emissions from cattle and sheep. Research in this field is being undertaken locally at AFBI and QUB.\n\nDAERA has had discussions with the Dutch company DSM on the use of the 3NOP/Bovaer feed additive which has been shown to reduce enteric methane emissions from cattle by between 20% and 30%. 3NOP was approved for use as a feed additive by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in February 2022.\n\nWithin the Consultation on Future Agricultural Policy, I stated that consideration is being given to the development of a challenge fund model to test these additives in Northern Ireland conditions and, if successful, and the market for these products matures sufficiently, taking necessary steps to ensure enteric methane reducing feed additives are routinely incorporated into ruminant concentrate diets.","answerHtml":"The Global Methane Pledge was signed up to by over 100 countries at COP 26. The pledge to cut methane emissions by 30% by 2030 will no doubt include a contribution from agriculture, as methane accounts for 66% of local emissions.
There is a considerable worldwide research effort being put into the development of seaweed based feed additives to reduce enteric methane emissions from cattle and sheep. Research in this field is being undertaken locally at AFBI and QUB.
DAERA has had discussions with the Dutch company DSM on the use of the 3NOP/Bovaer feed additive which has been shown to reduce enteric methane emissions from cattle by between 20% and 30%. 3NOP was approved for use as a feed additive by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in February 2022.
Within the Consultation on Future Agricultural Policy, I stated that consideration is being given to the development of a challenge fund model to test these additives in Northern Ireland conditions and, if successful, and the market for these products matures sufficiently, taking necessary steps to ensure enteric methane reducing feed additives are routinely incorporated into ruminant concentrate diets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030214%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369613","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369613"}},{"id":"369612","reference":"AQW 30213/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-11","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in light of rising fuel and energy costs, what consideration he has given to creating a fuel taskforce.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty.\n\nThe Energy Strategy Action Plan which was published on 20 January 2022 sets out the Executive’s intention to establish a cross-departmental steering group, chaired by DfC, to develop and deliver actions to reduce fuel poverty.\n\nThis will include short-term initiatives, joining up existing support, and improved data and measurement towards alleviating fuel poverty for individuals and communities. The work of this group will inform the development of a new fuel poverty strategy.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty.
The Energy Strategy Action Plan which was published on 20 January 2022 sets out the Executive’s intention to establish a cross-departmental steering group, chaired by DfC, to develop and deliver actions to reduce fuel poverty.
This will include short-term initiatives, joining up existing support, and improved data and measurement towards alleviating fuel poverty for individuals and communities. The work of this group will inform the development of a new fuel poverty strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030213%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369612","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369612"}},{"id":"369611","reference":"AQW 30212/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-11","answered":"2022-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what steps he is taking to increase numbers taking courses at further education colleges.","answerText":"There are a range of factors that influence young people’s decisions around learning and it is vital that they, their parents and carers are aware of the range of options, qualifications, pathways and skills available to them to enable them to make informed choices.\n\nAlong with work the individual FE colleges have been doing to develop and enhance their learner recruitment and engagement strategies, the six colleges have also collaborated, with my Department’s support, to develop a joint communications campaign, known as “FE for Me”. This communications campaign is part of a wider strategic approach aimed at building the profile of the FE sector and promoting FE as the first choice for professional and technical education. The campaign highlights the unique offering of the FE sector and the innovative FE products that set it apart from the offerings in the school and university sectors. It also promotes the opportunities for school leavers including full-time and part-time Higher Education (HE) courses and higher level apprenticeships that the six regional FE colleges provide.\n\nFE for Me activities include television and radio advertising, social media campaigns, sectoral events with local employers, and case studies which promote the sector amongst stakeholders and in doing so attract learners to the colleges. The campaign also highlights the importance of FE as a contributor to economic development in Northern Ireland and getting people ready for work, thus supporting the 10x Economic Strategy.\n\nMy Department is also working with the Department of Education to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to 14-19 education and training provision and a Framework and Action Plan are currently being finalised. The actions set out in the Framework aim to ensure young people better understand the options and pathways available to them, including the specialist, diverse and high quality provision available through the Further Education (FE) colleges, so that they can achieve their full potential as they move through their individual educational and training journey.\n\nThe Department is also currently undertaking a review of Level 4 & 5 Provision and Higher Education in Further Education (HE in FE). The review was initiated for a number of reasons, including declining HE in FE enrolments over recent years. The review is considering a wide range of issues, including pathways into and through HE in FE, and is due to conclude in spring 2022.\n\nThe launch of Skill Up provides opportunities for those over 18 years to skill, reskill and upskill with courses available from Level 1 through to Level 7. It is intended that Skill Up courses will increase enrolments at the colleges by providing greater accessibility to lifelong learning via on-line delivery, while also seeking to address skills imbalances in the economy.\n\nFinally, recent and continuing investment by my Department means that the Further Education sector now has a world-class estate with new buildings, such as the recently opened award-winning Erne campus which provide learners with access to industry standard facilities, suitably skilled and experienced lecturers and a clear route into employment, all of which are expected to encourage higher enrolment numbers at FE colleges.","answerHtml":"There are a range of factors that influence young people’s decisions around learning and it is vital that they, their parents and carers are aware of the range of options, qualifications, pathways and skills available to them to enable them to make informed choices.
Along with work the individual FE colleges have been doing to develop and enhance their learner recruitment and engagement strategies, the six colleges have also collaborated, with my Department’s support, to develop a joint communications campaign, known as “FE for Me”. This communications campaign is part of a wider strategic approach aimed at building the profile of the FE sector and promoting FE as the first choice for professional and technical education. The campaign highlights the unique offering of the FE sector and the innovative FE products that set it apart from the offerings in the school and university sectors. It also promotes the opportunities for school leavers including full-time and part-time Higher Education (HE) courses and higher level apprenticeships that the six regional FE colleges provide.
FE for Me activities include television and radio advertising, social media campaigns, sectoral events with local employers, and case studies which promote the sector amongst stakeholders and in doing so attract learners to the colleges. The campaign also highlights the importance of FE as a contributor to economic development in Northern Ireland and getting people ready for work, thus supporting the 10x Economic Strategy.
My Department is also working with the Department of Education to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to 14-19 education and training provision and a Framework and Action Plan are currently being finalised. The actions set out in the Framework aim to ensure young people better understand the options and pathways available to them, including the specialist, diverse and high quality provision available through the Further Education (FE) colleges, so that they can achieve their full potential as they move through their individual educational and training journey.
The Department is also currently undertaking a review of Level 4 & 5 Provision and Higher Education in Further Education (HE in FE). The review was initiated for a number of reasons, including declining HE in FE enrolments over recent years. The review is considering a wide range of issues, including pathways into and through HE in FE, and is due to conclude in spring 2022.
The launch of Skill Up provides opportunities for those over 18 years to skill, reskill and upskill with courses available from Level 1 through to Level 7. It is intended that Skill Up courses will increase enrolments at the colleges by providing greater accessibility to lifelong learning via on-line delivery, while also seeking to address skills imbalances in the economy.
Finally, recent and continuing investment by my Department means that the Further Education sector now has a world-class estate with new buildings, such as the recently opened award-winning Erne campus which provide learners with access to industry standard facilities, suitably skilled and experienced lecturers and a clear route into employment, all of which are expected to encourage higher enrolment numbers at FE colleges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030212%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369611"}},{"id":"371260","reference":"AQO 3225/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-24","answerBy":"2022-03-07","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline her plans to support families struggling with rising living costs, who do not qualify for benefits.","answerText":"My Department offers a range of schemes to support families struggling with rising living costs, and will continue to keep this under constant review. This includes help to improve the energy efficiency of homes through the Affordable Warmth and Boiler Replacement Schemes.\n\nFinancial support to help people with fuel costs is provided through the Winter Fuel Payment, paid to eligible older people, as well as through the Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme which will provide immediate support of up to one hundred pounds (£100) worth of electricity, gas or oil to eligible people experiencing an emergency fuel crisis.\n\nThe Discretionary Support Scheme provides interest free loans and non-repayable grants to people experiencing financial difficulties to help meet urgent living expense needs or provide essential household items. This is available to anyone whose annual income is below the annual income threshold regardless of whether they are in receipt of benefits.\n\nMy Department has been running a Social Supermarket pilot programme since 2017 at five sites to support those in or at risk of food poverty. A social supermarket aims to address the causes of food poverty through the provision of wraparound support, alongside food provision to meet immediate need, and entitlement to benefits is not a requirement to access this service.","answerHtml":"My Department offers a range of schemes to support families struggling with rising living costs, and will continue to keep this under constant review. This includes help to improve the energy efficiency of homes through the Affordable Warmth and Boiler Replacement Schemes.
Financial support to help people with fuel costs is provided through the Winter Fuel Payment, paid to eligible older people, as well as through the Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme which will provide immediate support of up to one hundred pounds (£100) worth of electricity, gas or oil to eligible people experiencing an emergency fuel crisis.
The Discretionary Support Scheme provides interest free loans and non-repayable grants to people experiencing financial difficulties to help meet urgent living expense needs or provide essential household items. This is available to anyone whose annual income is below the annual income threshold regardless of whether they are in receipt of benefits.
My Department has been running a Social Supermarket pilot programme since 2017 at five sites to support those in or at risk of food poverty. A social supermarket aims to address the causes of food poverty through the provision of wraparound support, alongside food provision to meet immediate need, and entitlement to benefits is not a requirement to access this service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203225%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=371260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=371260"}},{"id":"369367","reference":"AQW 30146/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-23","answerBy":"2022-03-10","answered":"2022-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the current number of vets in Northern Ireland; and (ii) what steps he is taking to increase this provision.","answerText":"The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs does not hold data on the number of vets in Northern Ireland. However, as part of the recent Strategic Investment Board (SIB) analysis, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons indicated that of 26,056 MRCVS’s currently registered in the United Kingdom in 2021, 916 were registered as resident and / or practising in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department of Agriculture has no specific role in the provision of vets, however, given the reports of a local and national supply shortage, and the heavy dependence of our Northern Ireland agri-food industry on an assured supply of vets. I commissioned the Strategic Investment Board to undertake an Assessment of Need in terms of the local veterinary work force, and a local veterinary education and research establishment.\n\nThe report will be shared shortly with a Steering Group for their consideration on next steps. The Steering Group membership includes Causeway Coast and Glens Council, University of Ulster and Queens University.","answerHtml":"The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs does not hold data on the number of vets in Northern Ireland. However, as part of the recent Strategic Investment Board (SIB) analysis, the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons indicated that of 26,056 MRCVS’s currently registered in the United Kingdom in 2021, 916 were registered as resident and / or practising in Northern Ireland.
The Department of Agriculture has no specific role in the provision of vets, however, given the reports of a local and national supply shortage, and the heavy dependence of our Northern Ireland agri-food industry on an assured supply of vets. I commissioned the Strategic Investment Board to undertake an Assessment of Need in terms of the local veterinary work force, and a local veterinary education and research establishment.
The report will be shared shortly with a Steering Group for their consideration on next steps. The Steering Group membership includes Causeway Coast and Glens Council, University of Ulster and Queens University.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030146%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369367"}},{"id":"369366","reference":"AQW 30145/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-23","answerBy":"2022-03-10","answered":"2022-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of people currently waiting to receive their £100 emergency fuel payment; and (ii) how applicants can check the progress of their application.","answerText":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme is being operated by Bryson Care. This is not a Department for Communities scheme. Bryson Care have advised that, in line with the objectives of the scheme, all complete applications are processed within an average of 24hours and for those assessed as eligible delivery of the fuel supply is within a further 24 hours.\n\nAll applicants are notified by Bryson Care on completion of the assessment process. The notification is subject to the applicants preference; text, email or landline.","answerHtml":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme is being operated by Bryson Care. This is not a Department for Communities scheme. Bryson Care have advised that, in line with the objectives of the scheme, all complete applications are processed within an average of 24hours and for those assessed as eligible delivery of the fuel supply is within a further 24 hours.
All applicants are notified by Bryson Care on completion of the assessment process. The notification is subject to the applicants preference; text, email or landline.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030145%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369366"}},{"id":"369365","reference":"AQW 30144/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-23","answerBy":"2022-03-10","answered":"2022-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of current sea defences in Portstewart; and (ii) to detail plans she has to improve these.","answerText":"My Department has developed the 2nd Cycle Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) 2021 -2027 which has highlighted the most significant areas of risk in Northern Ireland from rivers, the sea and surface water. The FRMP also sets out how the relevant authorities will work together and with communities to manage flood risks. My officials have worked with partner organisations to develop a coastal flooding emergency response plan to detail the arrangements for a co-ordinated multi-agency emergency response to coastal flooding in Northern Ireland.\n\nPortstewart has not been identified, through that work, as an area of potentially significant flood risk. The retaining wall at the promenade in Portstewart is maintained by my Department and was recently inspected by my officials and found to be in good condition. I have asked officials to keep this wall under observation.","answerHtml":"My Department has developed the 2nd Cycle Flood Risk Management Plan (FRMP) 2021 -2027 which has highlighted the most significant areas of risk in Northern Ireland from rivers, the sea and surface water. The FRMP also sets out how the relevant authorities will work together and with communities to manage flood risks. My officials have worked with partner organisations to develop a coastal flooding emergency response plan to detail the arrangements for a co-ordinated multi-agency emergency response to coastal flooding in Northern Ireland.
Portstewart has not been identified, through that work, as an area of potentially significant flood risk. The retaining wall at the promenade in Portstewart is maintained by my Department and was recently inspected by my officials and found to be in good condition. I have asked officials to keep this wall under observation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030144%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369365","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369365"}},{"id":"369364","reference":"AQW 30143/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-23","answerBy":"2022-03-10","answered":"2022-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail action taken by her Department to ensure the survival of the Magilligan to Greencastle ferry service.","answerText":"While I recognise the benefits that the Magilligan to Greencastle Ferry service brings to local communities and tourism in general during its summer operation, my Department holds no statutory powers in relation to this ferry service. My Department, therefore, has no operational responsibility for the privately-owned Magilligan-Greencastle ferry service.","answerHtml":"While I recognise the benefits that the Magilligan to Greencastle Ferry service brings to local communities and tourism in general during its summer operation, my Department holds no statutory powers in relation to this ferry service. My Department, therefore, has no operational responsibility for the privately-owned Magilligan-Greencastle ferry service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030143%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369364","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369364"}},{"id":"369217","reference":"AQW 30084/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-22","answerBy":"2022-03-09","answered":"2022-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail how new working from home arrangements have impacted staffing levels at Ballykelly House; and (ii) for his assessment of whether workers at the headquarters are being attracted to move to the area.","answerText":"There are currently 337 DAERA staff formally headquartered in Ballykelly House. In line with the NI Executive's guidance, staff who can work from home are continuing to do so at this time. The NICS Hybrid Working Policy was launched on 17 December 2021, however, in light of prevailing guidance in respect of the COVID pandemic, it has not yet been implemented by NICS Departments. It is therefore not yet possible to assess how the Hybrid Working Policy will impact on the future utilisation of DAERA’s accommodation, including Ballykelly House.\n\nData which would enable an assessment as to whether staff have been attracted to move to the Ballykelly area is not held.","answerHtml":"There are currently 337 DAERA staff formally headquartered in Ballykelly House. In line with the NI Executive's guidance, staff who can work from home are continuing to do so at this time. The NICS Hybrid Working Policy was launched on 17 December 2021, however, in light of prevailing guidance in respect of the COVID pandemic, it has not yet been implemented by NICS Departments. It is therefore not yet possible to assess how the Hybrid Working Policy will impact on the future utilisation of DAERA’s accommodation, including Ballykelly House.
Data which would enable an assessment as to whether staff have been attracted to move to the Ballykelly area is not held.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030084%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369217","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369217"}},{"id":"369216","reference":"AQW 30083/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-22","answerBy":"2022-03-09","answered":"2022-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what support his Department can provide to businesses that have suffered recent storm damage and are not covered by their insurance.","answerText":"Business insurance matters regarding storm damage to property does not fall within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"Business insurance matters regarding storm damage to property does not fall within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030083%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369216","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369216"}},{"id":"369215","reference":"AQW 30082/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-22","answerBy":"2022-03-09","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount spent on free lateral flow test kits since the start of the pandemic.","answerText":"The National Testing Programme is managed by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), working in partnership with the Public Health Agency and the Department of Health locally to deliver the programme in Northern Ireland. LFDs are procured by UKHSA as part of the UK’s National Testing Programme.\n\nDue to commercial sensitivities, UKHSA is not in a position to provide detail on individual contracts. Public notices of contracts are published here: https://www.gov.uk/contracts-finder","answerHtml":"The National Testing Programme is managed by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), working in partnership with the Public Health Agency and the Department of Health locally to deliver the programme in Northern Ireland. LFDs are procured by UKHSA as part of the UK’s National Testing Programme.
Due to commercial sensitivities, UKHSA is not in a position to provide detail on individual contracts. Public notices of contracts are published here: https://www.gov.uk/contracts-finder
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030082%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369215"}},{"id":"369214","reference":"AQW 30081/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-22","answerBy":"2022-03-09","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of Northern Ireland Fire Service provision in Portrush; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to increase provision.","answerText":"Sixteen On-Call firefighters are currently assigned to Portrush Fire Station. From 1 April 2021 to 31 January 2022, Portrush Fire Station ensured an appliance immediately responded to calls more than 98% of the time.\n\nPortrush Fire Station will be included in the next On-Call recruitment campaign. The campaign is scheduled to commence during the 2022/23 financial year.","answerHtml":"Sixteen On-Call firefighters are currently assigned to Portrush Fire Station. From 1 April 2021 to 31 January 2022, Portrush Fire Station ensured an appliance immediately responded to calls more than 98% of the time.
Portrush Fire Station will be included in the next On-Call recruitment campaign. The campaign is scheduled to commence during the 2022/23 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2030081%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=369214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=369214"}},{"id":"368960","reference":"AQW 29982/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-18","answerBy":"2022-03-07","answered":"2022-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of the provision of Home to School Transport in East Londonderry; and (ii) to detail the steps she is taking to ensure all students in need of this service are able to access it.","answerText":"(i) There are currently 5,666 pupils from the East Londonderry constituency in receipt of transport assistance under the Home to School Transport policy. The transport service is highly valued by both parents and pupils, especially in rural areas such as East Londonderry where there may be fewer public transport options available. The Education Authority (EA), which is responsible for the operation and delivery of school transport, is not currently aware of any ongoing transport issues in the East Londonderry area.\n\nii) The purpose of my Department’s Home to School Transport policy is to facilitate pupils’ attendance at school and it aims to ensure that all children are able to attend a suitable school, regardless of where they live.\n\nA number of steps are taken to ensure that parents are aware of how to access transport assistance. Information is publicly available on the DE and EA websites as well as on NI-Direct, and it is included in school admission packs that are issued to parents. Pupils can check their eligibility for transport assistance to different schools and make an application through the EA’s online portal. The EA also run a dedicated school transport telephone helpline to assist parents.\n\nI would encourage all pupils who feel they may be eligible for home to school transport to apply via the EA website.","answerHtml":"(i) There are currently 5,666 pupils from the East Londonderry constituency in receipt of transport assistance under the Home to School Transport policy. The transport service is highly valued by both parents and pupils, especially in rural areas such as East Londonderry where there may be fewer public transport options available. The Education Authority (EA), which is responsible for the operation and delivery of school transport, is not currently aware of any ongoing transport issues in the East Londonderry area.
ii) The purpose of my Department’s Home to School Transport policy is to facilitate pupils’ attendance at school and it aims to ensure that all children are able to attend a suitable school, regardless of where they live.
A number of steps are taken to ensure that parents are aware of how to access transport assistance. Information is publicly available on the DE and EA websites as well as on NI-Direct, and it is included in school admission packs that are issued to parents. Pupils can check their eligibility for transport assistance to different schools and make an application through the EA’s online portal. The EA also run a dedicated school transport telephone helpline to assist parents.
I would encourage all pupils who feel they may be eligible for home to school transport to apply via the EA website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029982%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368960","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368960"}},{"id":"368957","reference":"AQW 29979/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-18","answerBy":"2022-03-07","answered":"2022-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any conversations she has had with (i) the PSNI; and (ii) local councils regarding reports of domestic animals being poisoned.","answerText":"Policy responsibility for the welfare of animals sits with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.\n\nI have not had conversations with the PSNI or local councils on this matter in my role as Minister of Justice.\n\nThe investigation of any incidents of animal cruelty would be an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board.","answerHtml":"Policy responsibility for the welfare of animals sits with the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs.
I have not had conversations with the PSNI or local councils on this matter in my role as Minister of Justice.
The investigation of any incidents of animal cruelty would be an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029979%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368957"}},{"id":"368956","reference":"AQW 29978/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-18","answerBy":"2022-03-07","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how the current rise in energy prices will inform future energy policy.","answerText":"Throughout my time as Minister for the Economy, I have been clear that consumers in Northern Ireland must be at the heart of future energy policy. I will ensure that they are protected from unfair price rises while also reducing our carbon impact. To do this, we need to move away from dependency on fossil fuels, which has been the main cause of recent energy price increases.\n\nThe Executive published its new Energy Strategy on 16 December 2021, followed by an Action Plan on 20 January 2022. The plan contains a number of actions to help consumers increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption, thereby reducing consumer bills.\n\nOther actions set out how we plan to decarbonise and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, such as increasing the use of electric vehicles, speeding up the deployment of renewable electricity generation, improving the energy efficiency of our homes and switching to low carbon heating systems.\n\nA report on the delivery of the action plan will be published annually with a five-year strategic review due in 2025 and every five years thereafter.","answerHtml":"Throughout my time as Minister for the Economy, I have been clear that consumers in Northern Ireland must be at the heart of future energy policy. I will ensure that they are protected from unfair price rises while also reducing our carbon impact. To do this, we need to move away from dependency on fossil fuels, which has been the main cause of recent energy price increases.
The Executive published its new Energy Strategy on 16 December 2021, followed by an Action Plan on 20 January 2022. The plan contains a number of actions to help consumers increase energy efficiency and reduce energy consumption, thereby reducing consumer bills.
Other actions set out how we plan to decarbonise and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, such as increasing the use of electric vehicles, speeding up the deployment of renewable electricity generation, improving the energy efficiency of our homes and switching to low carbon heating systems.
A report on the delivery of the action plan will be published annually with a five-year strategic review due in 2025 and every five years thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029978%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368956"}},{"id":"368775","reference":"AQW 29920/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-03-04","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what steps she is taking to enable and encourage school facilities to be used by the wider community during school holidays and weekends.","answerText":"It is the aim of the Department of Education to maximise the use of the schools estate for the benefit of local communities, encouraging and supporting schools to provide wider access to school facilities including school halls, where possible, primarily outside of normal school hours. However, the Department cannot require schools to open premises to third parties. Decisions relating to the use of school premises ultimately rest with an individual school’s Board of Governors.\n\nMy Department published a Guidance Toolkit in 2014 to help schools enhance the community use of their premises and provide advice in dealing with the practical issues involved. It has been designed to encourage schools to realise the benefits of making school premises available for use by the local community, provide advice and assistance to school leaders in dealing with the practical issues involved, and outline good practice examples of schools which already successfully provide community access to their facilities.\n\nThe Education Authority provides advice and support, where appropriate, to schools in dealing with the practical aspects connected with making school premises more widely available for use by community organisations. It has commenced a review of the community use of school arrangements, which is at an early stage. The review will consider a range of areas with a view to assisting and encouraging schools to increase the use of their premises by the community.","answerHtml":"It is the aim of the Department of Education to maximise the use of the schools estate for the benefit of local communities, encouraging and supporting schools to provide wider access to school facilities including school halls, where possible, primarily outside of normal school hours. However, the Department cannot require schools to open premises to third parties. Decisions relating to the use of school premises ultimately rest with an individual school’s Board of Governors.
My Department published a Guidance Toolkit in 2014 to help schools enhance the community use of their premises and provide advice in dealing with the practical issues involved. It has been designed to encourage schools to realise the benefits of making school premises available for use by the local community, provide advice and assistance to school leaders in dealing with the practical issues involved, and outline good practice examples of schools which already successfully provide community access to their facilities.
The Education Authority provides advice and support, where appropriate, to schools in dealing with the practical aspects connected with making school premises more widely available for use by community organisations. It has commenced a review of the community use of school arrangements, which is at an early stage. The review will consider a range of areas with a view to assisting and encouraging schools to increase the use of their premises by the community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029920%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368775","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368775"}},{"id":"368774","reference":"AQW 29919/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-03-04","answered":"2022-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what steps he is taking to enable and encourage more small, local fishermen to provide businesses with local seafood.","answerText":"Invest NI engages regularly with local fishery and aquaculture processing companies in relation to their business needs, with a particular focus on helping these companies to export local seafood into different external markets. They offer a range of financial and non-financial support to help these companies.\n\nThe Marine and Fisheries Division within DAERA has responsibility for providing advice and support to the local NI fishing fleet.","answerHtml":"Invest NI engages regularly with local fishery and aquaculture processing companies in relation to their business needs, with a particular focus on helping these companies to export local seafood into different external markets. They offer a range of financial and non-financial support to help these companies.
The Marine and Fisheries Division within DAERA has responsibility for providing advice and support to the local NI fishing fleet.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029919%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368774","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368774"}},{"id":"368772","reference":"AQW 29917/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-03-04","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the work on Ballykelly’s wastewater system that has been (i) completed in the last three years; and (ii) budgeted for in future.","answerText":"(i)In the last three years, NI Water has completed the following work on Ballykelly’s wastewater system.\n\nBallykelly Storm Sewer\n\nDuring the summer of 2019, NI Water undertook a storm separation project. This was to reduce the risk of out of sewer flooding and also to reduce the flow to the existing wastewater treatment works, to help reduce the likelihood of the works becoming flooded. This involved laying a new storm sewer down Ballykelly Main Street, which discharges directly to the nearby river. This project represented an investment of approximately £760k.\n\nBallykelly Wastewater Treatment Works\n\nNI Water has recently completed work on a £5 million investment in Ballykelly wastewater treatment works, to provide a new sustainable wastewater treatment solution on-site, which includes a 100kW solar energy system, to help power the new works with clean energy. The solar panels will power the plant during the summer months and power will be augmented from the grid during the winter. Across an expected 25-year lifetime, NI Water expects the solar energy system to save the business over £400k. NI Water is also providing a facility at the works to undertake wastewater treatment trials as part of its Innovation Programme.\n\nIn addition, NI Water also has an ongoing project around the Ballykelly site to plant trees, to help meet the company’s goal of planting 1 million trees by 2025. This scheme will improve future wastewater services for customers in the area, enhance the local environment and improve local watercourses by using an innovative integrated constructed wetland, as an energy free final wastewater treatment filter process.\n\n(ii)In light of this recent investment, during the PC21 Price Control programme (2021/22 - 2026/27) I am advised that NI Water has no specific capital projects planned for Ballykelly’s wastewater system. However, any necessary maintenance work, required to address specific issues during this time, would be carried out under NI Water’s base maintenance programme of work.","answerHtml":"(i)In the last three years, NI Water has completed the following work on Ballykelly’s wastewater system.
Ballykelly Storm Sewer
During the summer of 2019, NI Water undertook a storm separation project. This was to reduce the risk of out of sewer flooding and also to reduce the flow to the existing wastewater treatment works, to help reduce the likelihood of the works becoming flooded. This involved laying a new storm sewer down Ballykelly Main Street, which discharges directly to the nearby river. This project represented an investment of approximately £760k.
Ballykelly Wastewater Treatment Works
NI Water has recently completed work on a £5 million investment in Ballykelly wastewater treatment works, to provide a new sustainable wastewater treatment solution on-site, which includes a 100kW solar energy system, to help power the new works with clean energy. The solar panels will power the plant during the summer months and power will be augmented from the grid during the winter. Across an expected 25-year lifetime, NI Water expects the solar energy system to save the business over £400k. NI Water is also providing a facility at the works to undertake wastewater treatment trials as part of its Innovation Programme.
In addition, NI Water also has an ongoing project around the Ballykelly site to plant trees, to help meet the company’s goal of planting 1 million trees by 2025. This scheme will improve future wastewater services for customers in the area, enhance the local environment and improve local watercourses by using an innovative integrated constructed wetland, as an energy free final wastewater treatment filter process.
(ii)In light of this recent investment, during the PC21 Price Control programme (2021/22 - 2026/27) I am advised that NI Water has no specific capital projects planned for Ballykelly’s wastewater system. However, any necessary maintenance work, required to address specific issues during this time, would be carried out under NI Water’s base maintenance programme of work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029917%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368772"}},{"id":"368771","reference":"AQW 29916/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-03-04","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the support provided by her Department to the Vale Centre and the Greysteel Community Centre.","answerText":"Between 2007 and 2020 the Greysteel Community Centre has been awarded £757,765 in grant funding from the Department and Sport NI for a number of projects and initiatives. Details are set out in the following table:\n\nFiscal Year\tType\tFund\tProgramme\tGrant Amount\n2007\tCapital\tLottery\tBuilding Sport\t558,167\n2007\tRevenue\tLottery\tBuilding Sport\t102,000\n2011\tRevenue\tExchequer\tAwards For Sport\t5,500\n2014\tCapital\tExchequer\tDisability Sport NI Inclusive Sport Facilities\t43,118\n2014\tRevenue\tLottery\tActive Awards for Sport\t10,000\n2019\tCapital\tExchequer\tBusiness Case Investment\t17,990\n2020\tRevenue\tExchequer\tSports Hardship Fund\t2,000\n2020\tCapital\tExchequer\tBusiness Case Investment\t17,990\n2020\tRevenue\tExchequer\tSports Hardship Fund\t1,000\nTotal\t\t£757,765\n\nIn addition, the Vale Centre received an Automated External Defibrillator and associated training from Sport NI, valued at approximately £700, in 2019.\n\nMore recently officials from my Department and Sport NI met with representatives of the Vale Centre on 23 July 2021 via Zoom to hear about the future plans for the centre. Details of potential funding opportunities were shared during that meeting.","answerHtml":"Between 2007 and 2020 the Greysteel Community Centre has been awarded £757,765 in grant funding from the Department and Sport NI for a number of projects and initiatives. Details are set out in the following table:
| Fiscal Year | Type | Fund | Programme | Grant Amount |
| 2007 | Capital | Lottery | Building Sport | 558,167 |
| 2007 | Revenue | Lottery | Building Sport | 102,000 |
| 2011 | Revenue | Exchequer | Awards For Sport | 5,500 |
| 2014 | Capital | Exchequer | Disability Sport NI Inclusive Sport Facilities | 43,118 |
| 2014 | Revenue | Lottery | Active Awards for Sport | 10,000 |
| 2019 | Capital | Exchequer | Business Case Investment | 17,990 |
| 2020 | Revenue | Exchequer | Sports Hardship Fund | 2,000 |
| 2020 | Capital | Exchequer | Business Case Investment | 17,990 |
| 2020 | Revenue | Exchequer | Sports Hardship Fund | 1,000 |
| Total | £757,765 | |||
In addition, the Vale Centre received an Automated External Defibrillator and associated training from Sport NI, valued at approximately £700, in 2019.
More recently officials from my Department and Sport NI met with representatives of the Vale Centre on 23 July 2021 via Zoom to hear about the future plans for the centre. Details of potential funding opportunities were shared during that meeting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029916%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368771"}},{"id":"370176","reference":"AQO 3214/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how he is supporting farmers following the detection of Maedi Visna in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"As part of my Department’s efforts to maintain a Maedi-Visna-free status for the Northern Ireland sheep flock, Department officials have for many years operated a surveillance programme, which tests any sheep and goats moved into Northern Ireland from outside the island of Ireland, and a small proportion of the indigenous Northern Ireland flock as part of the annual sheep and goat survey.\n\nFollowing the recent detection of Maedi-Visna in sheep originating from Northern Ireland my Department is taking all possible actions to support local flock keepers and protect the sheep trade from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.\n\nIn order to continue to assure our current Maedi-Visna free status DAERA is carrying out a veterinary investigation with the intention of identifying the extent of any spread, and then controlling and stamping out the disease. As such, officials are implementing a rigorous approach to trace, test and removal of all of the infected animals in as timely a manner as possible, in an attempt to eradicate the disease as quickly as possible. Control of the movement of infected animals is a key element of any disease control programme but I would want to emphasise that restrictions on sheep movements are only applied where disease is confirmed or suspected, and where necessary to mitigate against risk of further onward spread from the affected flock.\n\nFinancial compensation is also payable to affected flock keepers if the Department considers it necessary to slaughter any sheep for disease control purposes. Positive animals are paid at 50% of their market value up to the statutorily permissible limits, while negative in contact animals are paid at 100% market value.\n\nMy officials are actively working with those keepers affected by movement restrictions on their flocks to ensure that all necessary testing is done as promptly as possible, to allow the restrictions to be lifted at the earliest opportunity.\n\nHowever, this is a difficult exercise and one uncertain of success, given the invidious nature of the disease, it’s very long incubation period and its relatively non-specific symptoms.\n\nHence my Department is also currently considering a number of options to maintain the benefits of Maedi-visna free status including the introduction of a Northern Ireland accreditation scheme, similar to that in operation in Great Britain; or a possible “joint” accreditation scheme with the Republic of Ireland.\n\nOfficials are working in partnership with the Scottish Rural College, key stakeholders and colleagues in the Republic of Ireland, to explore the possibility of developing and establishing a scheme which would be suitable and sustainable for our flock keepers.\n\nWhile this is going on, my officials will continue to provide practical support and guidance to the local sheep industry. Officials have already met with key stakeholders, on a number of occasions, and will continue to do so, in order to keep them appraised of developments. A Press release has recently been issued and the Department has also updated its guidance on the DAERA webpages advising industry to source stock responsibly and deploy good biosecurity practices on their farms to eliminate any risk of further disease spread.","answerHtml":"As part of my Department’s efforts to maintain a Maedi-Visna-free status for the Northern Ireland sheep flock, Department officials have for many years operated a surveillance programme, which tests any sheep and goats moved into Northern Ireland from outside the island of Ireland, and a small proportion of the indigenous Northern Ireland flock as part of the annual sheep and goat survey.
Following the recent detection of Maedi-Visna in sheep originating from Northern Ireland my Department is taking all possible actions to support local flock keepers and protect the sheep trade from Northern Ireland to Great Britain.
In order to continue to assure our current Maedi-Visna free status DAERA is carrying out a veterinary investigation with the intention of identifying the extent of any spread, and then controlling and stamping out the disease. As such, officials are implementing a rigorous approach to trace, test and removal of all of the infected animals in as timely a manner as possible, in an attempt to eradicate the disease as quickly as possible. Control of the movement of infected animals is a key element of any disease control programme but I would want to emphasise that restrictions on sheep movements are only applied where disease is confirmed or suspected, and where necessary to mitigate against risk of further onward spread from the affected flock.
Financial compensation is also payable to affected flock keepers if the Department considers it necessary to slaughter any sheep for disease control purposes. Positive animals are paid at 50% of their market value up to the statutorily permissible limits, while negative in contact animals are paid at 100% market value.
My officials are actively working with those keepers affected by movement restrictions on their flocks to ensure that all necessary testing is done as promptly as possible, to allow the restrictions to be lifted at the earliest opportunity.
However, this is a difficult exercise and one uncertain of success, given the invidious nature of the disease, it’s very long incubation period and its relatively non-specific symptoms.
Hence my Department is also currently considering a number of options to maintain the benefits of Maedi-visna free status including the introduction of a Northern Ireland accreditation scheme, similar to that in operation in Great Britain; or a possible “joint” accreditation scheme with the Republic of Ireland.
Officials are working in partnership with the Scottish Rural College, key stakeholders and colleagues in the Republic of Ireland, to explore the possibility of developing and establishing a scheme which would be suitable and sustainable for our flock keepers.
While this is going on, my officials will continue to provide practical support and guidance to the local sheep industry. Officials have already met with key stakeholders, on a number of occasions, and will continue to do so, in order to keep them appraised of developments. A Press release has recently been issued and the Department has also updated its guidance on the DAERA webpages advising industry to source stock responsibly and deploy good biosecurity practices on their farms to eliminate any risk of further disease spread.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203214%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370176","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370176"}},{"id":"368846","reference":"AQO 3194/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-28","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has any plans to review existing provisions to address anti-social behaviour.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long (The Minister of Justice)","text":"With your permission, Mr Speaker, I will answer questions 1 and 3 together. A number of strands of work are being taken forward on a collaborative basis across Departments to address antisocial behaviour (ASB) and its impact on individuals and communities. At an operational level, policing and community safety partnerships (PCSPs), which are funded by my Department, work in partnership with designated partners, statutory bodies and the voluntary and community sector to develop solutions to address community safety issues and antisocial behaviour. New action plans and project initiatives for 2022-23 are being finalised. The Department continues to work strategically with relevant partners to address ASB, including through forums such as the strategic partnership group and the inter-agency group, which works to implement community safety initiatives in the lower Ormeau and university area. My Department has also established the Community Safety Board, a multi-agency strategic partnership forum set up to link the strategic and operational response to community safety issues, including ASB. During 2021, the Community Safety Board stood up a number of community safety response groups to facilitate a coordinated and targeted multi-agency response to local community safety concerns, including antisocial behaviour. Complementing the ongoing collaborative work across Departments to address ASB, my Department is leading on a multi-agency review of ASB legislation via the ASB legislation review delivery group. The objective of the review is to ensure that the relevant authorities across housing, justice and local council have effective and proportionate enforcement powers in place to deal with ASB. The delivery group is considering nine legislative powers, four of which were added to the review following public consultation and engagement. Work to date has involved detailed assessment of new legislative measures applied in other jurisdictions in response to ASB and their success and careful consideration of whether equivalent powers are required in Northern Ireland and the potential implications. To date, considerations have been completed on four powers: absolute grounds for possession; civil injunctions; provisions for noise nuisance; and criminal behaviour orders. The group will finalise its consideration of a fifth power in the coming weeks, and the remaining powers are being actively considered. Where legislative change is proposed, each departmental lead will be responsible for taking forward any subsequent legislative process within the time frame set by their Department's legislative work programme."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"We are well over time."},{"speaker":"Mr Sheehan","text":"Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire as ucht a freagra. I thank the Minister for her answer. For some communities and individuals, antisocial behaviour is more than an inconvenience; it is a living nightmare. The Minister is well aware of documented cases where people have taken their own life. Does she agree that work needs to be expedited to tackle the problem and to divert young people from the behaviour, which is so distressing?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"Youth diversion is something that, for example, the Youth Justice Agency with its early intervention programmes and the Department of Education's youth service try to engage in. The Member will be conscious that, in order for us to do that well and to address issues coherently, we need the legislative tools to ensure that, for example, we have the powers of seizure for on-street drinking that we need — we know that there were flaws in previous attempts to achieve that — and that we can work closely with communities to ensure that their priorities are taken into account. Contacting the PCSPs at this time, as they finalise their programmes, is an important part of ensuring that that diversionary work continues."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"In Limavady, in my constituency, we are experiencing a difficult antisocial behaviour issue. Colleagues from across the constituency have asked for it to stop. Operationally, it is a responsibility of the PSNI, but the PSNI tells me that the legislation does not support it to take it through the full criminal justice system. Antisocial behaviour is a pattern of behaviour. Are there any plans to capture in legislation that pattern of behaviour so that we can bring people to justice, and, hopefully, deter anyone else from carrying it out?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"On legislative opportunities, I have set out the nine legislative powers that are being dealt with. Those were added to during the consultation phase, so Members have had an opportunity to highlight areas where, they feel, there is an issue. Antisocial behaviour can, in some cases, amount to harassment. It may be worth the Member discussing with the local police whether harassment laws can be used where a person is being targeted by antisocial behaviour and whether, through those, there are opportunities to pursue prosecutions in a more structured way. We are looking at criminal behaviour orders and noise nuisance as part of the work that we are doing on antisocial behaviour, but other legal measures may be available. If the Member would like to discuss that with my officials and seek guidance, we would be happy to assist."},{"speaker":"Ms Bradshaw","text":"The Minister will be aware that, every year, there are issues in the Holylands area of South Belfast. Residents there are already becoming nervous about what is to come this year. Will you offer them reassurance that work is under way to put in place a multidisciplinary cross-departmental approach to address that?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"The recent scenes of disorder and criminality in the Holylands and wider area were completely unacceptable. That has been recognised by everyone who is involved in trying to overcome those issues. Some issues are a matter of antisocial behaviour, but others have a structural basis. That is why we are working with the strategic partnership group to address the underlying causes in the area. For example, the overpopulation of HMOs has created issues, and the seizure of alcohol has proved to be difficult. We hope, in the near future, to appoint an intervention manager for the Holylands — joint departmental funding has been associated with that — to work closely with the local community in a cross-community, cross-departmental and inclusive way to develop plans for the area. Actions at a strategic level, through policy development and implementation, will bring the most lasting resolution. However, that is not to say that we are standing back on the plans that are being made for the immediate future. Our operational partners are heavily engaged in work to ensure that we can get through St Patrick's Day and that people can enjoy it rather than dread it and have to suffer through it like it is a nightmare."},{"speaker":"Mr Robinson","text":"Could policing be looked at in the Causeway Coast and Glens area, where there is a shortage of officers on the ground to tackle antisocial activity, particularly in Limavady town in the evenings? We have had windows broken, street lights damaged and homes attacked. The situation is getting out of control."},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"I thank the Member for his concern. I understand from his comments and those of Ms Sugden that there are serious issues in that locality. I cannot make commitments on behalf of the PSNI; operationally, it is independent of my office. However, I would be more than happy to meet representatives from the area, if it would be helpful, to look at what additional powers or opportunities there might be to bring to justice those involved in that kind of activity. It is not a minor issue. It is not just on the occasions when people suffer from antisocial behaviour that they are stressed and anxious; it is also on the nights in between when they fear that it will start again. It destroys people's lives; it destroys their quality of life; and it affects their mental health. It can also cost them a lot of money in damage to their property, particularly when that damage is low-level but persistent. I have huge sympathy for the residents who have to live with the consequences of the behaviour of others, and I am more than happy to engage as far as I can with Members to see whether there is any more that can be done. I also encourage the Member to speak to the local PCSP to see whether it is possible to target resources at those specific areas."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203194%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368846","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-02-28&docID=369443#AQO%203194/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368846"}},{"id":"368830","reference":"AQO 3178/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-17","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-28","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what plans she has to improve the efficiency of the planning system.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Mallon (The Minister for Infrastructure)","text":"I fully recognise how important planning is in protecting our environment, shaping local communities and, of course, supporting and developing our economy, now more than ever, as we move into recovery from the pandemic. I am also very aware of the need for significant improvement in the performance of our two-tier planning system, particularly when it comes to statutory consultees. My Department has been working on a number of fronts to improve the system, including on the establishment of a cross-departmental planning forum, in order to take forward recommendations from a report into the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. A key focus of the planning forum's work is to improve the response times to meet the 21-day statutory consultation target, particularly for major planning applications. I recognise that the level of statutory consultee responses that are needed to respond to consultations on a timely basis is critical and particularly relevant, given the increasing number and complexity of planning application consultations. I recently raised the resourcing issue around planning consultations with the Finance Minister, and my permanent secretary has written to other relevant permanent secretaries seeking their assistance in order to ensure that adequate funding is available for their consultation response teams. I have also specifically asked to be briefed on a monthly basis by those planning statutory consultees in my Department so that issues impacting on their performance can be addressed appropriately and in a timely manner. A number of measures have been taken in order to ensure that that important work is placed on a sustainable and improved footing, including an inescapable resource bid in the 2022-25 Budget exercise to meet the funding requirement for the additional staff that are needed in the Department. The Department has also undertaken a review of the implementation of the Planning Act 2011, and that has identified 16 areas where we could further improve the performance of the system for all stakeholders, including in the Department for Infrastructure, councils, statutory consultees, developers and the wider public. Work on that will continue to be progressed in the coming months."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for her response. The Minister and I met recently to discuss that issue. During that meeting, I expressed my frustration on behalf of not only local applicants but significant investors in Northern Ireland, who tell me that they are taking their multimillion-pound investments elsewhere. I appreciate that the Minister has talked about this being a cross-departmental piece of work, which I entirely agree with, but will she give us more detail of what it will entail and how we can genuinely put forward aims and objectives so that we can fix the issue once and for all?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for her question. As I said, statutory consultee response times are important, and we need to see improvement on them. The cross-departmental planning forum that my Department established is focused on improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning system by agreeing, prioritising and implementing the recommendations and actions that emerged from the report into the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. A work programme that involves 30 key actions has been developed, and, in total, 19 actions have been completed, with the remainder expected to be completed in 2022. I assure the Member that I recognise the importance of the issue. I have a firm focus on it, and I requested monthly updates in order to make sure that we continue to make progress on that important area."},{"speaker":"Mr Buckley","text":"Minister, I am sure that you realise that there is chronic concern in the industry regarding the performance of planning, particularly when to date not one local development plan has been completed by local councils or has maybe even got to stage 1. I asked the chief planner at Committee two weeks ago to tell me the number of regionally significant applications that had been submitted in the past 12 months. He was unable to answer. Can the Minister perhaps answer that question?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"Unfortunately, I do not have that information to hand, but I am happy to provide the Member with it in writing following Question Time."},{"speaker":"Mr Boylan","text":"The Minister will be familiar with the proposals by the AERA Minister to change the rules on the single farm payment by increasing the threshold for making claims from 3 hectares to 10 hectares. That will impact on small farmers and those people who wish to reside in the countryside in the future. What assessment has the Minister done to ensure that we will have sustainable farms in the countryside in the future?"},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"The Minister can answer the question if she so wishes, but it would, perhaps, be better addressed to another Minister, given that that is just a proposal."},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"Thank you, Mr Deputy Speaker. It is an important issue. I assure the Member that, although it does not fall within my portfolio — it is led by the AERA Minister — my officials are engaging with their colleagues in DAERA because we recognise the importance of the issue. That engagement will continue, and I am happy to keep the Member updated."},{"speaker":"Mr Chambers","text":"Does the Minister accept that many of the delays in the planning system are caused by organisations that are under her responsibility, such as Rivers, Roads and, on many occasions, Northern Ireland Water? Does she have any detailed plans to improve that situation, especially given the impact on private-sector investment, as is being witnessed in Bangor?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for his question. It is an important issue. We have been trying to increase capacity in Roads and Rivers by reallocating staff. As I said, I have also requested monthly updates to ensure that we continue to make progress in the statutory consultees that fall within my Department, such as Roads and Rivers. I also submitted an inescapable bid to the Finance Minister for the three-year Budget. I identified it as inescapable because we need to increase capacity in statutory consultees, not just those in my Department; I am also mindful of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency. My permanent secretary has been engaging with her counterparts to ensure that we get sufficient resources. We absolutely need to address it. In saying that, we are seeing a record high number of applications that are very complex. There is, of course, a need to continue to improve, given the importance of the issue to our economy and environment."},{"speaker":"Mr Muir","text":"Last year, your Department put a hold on Ards and North Down Borough Council's giving approval for the Queen's Parade development in Bangor. We are still waiting, 13 months later. When will you, as Minister, intervene, give the green light for that to go ahead and lift the holding direction that has been imposed on Ards and North Down Borough Council?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"The Member and I have met to discuss that issue. He will be aware of the work that has been ongoing between my Department, the council and other key stakeholders to try to make progress. The holding direction was issued by my Department in February last year, and it is in place. The assessment of the notification is being finalised. It is my intention to respond to the council as soon as possible with a decision as to whether the application should be referred to my Department for determination. I assure you that I am mindful of the importance of reaching a decision on the matter and avoiding any unnecessary delays."},{"speaker":"Ms Hunter","text":"This is an important matter. What impact will the latest collapse of the Executive have on planning decisions?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"Notwithstanding the collapse of the Executive, my officials continue to progress to a decision point all the planning applications that are before the Department for its consideration. Indeed, I have continued to take planning decisions, such as the decision to approve the reserved matters details for the maritime museum at Ebrington Square in Derry. I will certainly continue to take decisions where I can and where I am satisfied that referral would not be required."},{"speaker":"Miss Woods","text":"The Minister will be aware that a major problem with the planning system is the lack of openness, transparency and public participation. Does she agree that we must have equal rights of appeal for communities in Northern Ireland?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for her question. She has raised that issue on a number of occasions. The legislative and structural changes to the planning system that came into effect with the new two-tier system in 2015 are designed to deliver an inclusive, front-loaded system, with stronger third-party engagement and local democratic accountability. There are concerns that the introduction of a third-party right of appeal at the end of the development management process could undermine an applicant's commitment to community engagement at the start. That risks reducing certainty, and it could impact on the effectiveness and efficiency of the planning system at a time when it needs to be responsive to sustainable economic recovery. I have asked my officials to keep the matter under review. That will include the consideration of recommendations that emerge from the work of the planning engagement partnership that my Department is undertaking, given the importance of having communities involved and at the heart of planning decisions."},{"speaker":"Mr Allister","text":"We can all make, and do make, valid criticisms of the planning process, but is it not also fair to say that it is not always the planning departments that are at fault? Take the example of the York Street interchange. It was in 2016 that the Department issued a notice to proceed. I know that there have been legal challenges since, but is it not the case that it is the Department that is dragging its feet and perhaps even playing constituency politics with the interchange?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I absolutely refute the suggestion that I play constituency politics with issues that fall within my role as Minister. As the Member rightly identifies, the York Street interchange has been subject to legal challenge. We also had a three-year hiatus, during which no Minister was in place. When I took up the post, I was very clear straightaway that I recognised the project's strategic importance but that we absolutely needed to make sure that we got it right. We need to get it right for all those who will use it and for the community that lives in and around it. That is why I carried out an independent assessment. That report is complete, and we are engaging with all our key stakeholders so that I am in a position to be able to announce next steps."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203178%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368830","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2022-02-28&docID=369443#AQO%203178/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368830"}},{"id":"368302","reference":"AQW 29784/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-15","answerBy":"2022-02-18","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the arrangements for self-isolation from 15 February 2022.","answerText":"The current guidance on self-isolation requirements in Northern Ireland came into effect on 21 January 2022. Further information is available at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-self-isolating-and-close-contacts.","answerHtml":"The current guidance on self-isolation requirements in Northern Ireland came into effect on 21 January 2022. Further information is available at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-self-isolating-and-close-contacts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029784%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368302","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368302"}},{"id":"368301","reference":"AQW 29783/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-15","answerBy":"2022-03-02","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to provide details on the COVID payment, given to Health and Social Care Trust employees who do overtime, including (i) which roles are eligible; (ii) how the COVID payment rate is calculated; and (iii) how much has been spent by his Department on the COVID payments.","answerText":"The COVID Rapid Response Payment Scheme, which commenced in August 2021, is available to all staff on agenda for change terms and conditions.\n\nThis scheme operates within designated areas across each HSC Organisation when there is clear evidence of a negative impact on service delivery and staffing to sustain services as a result of COVID related issues.\n\nWhen a rota is initially developed, ALL options must be explored to cover gaps in the rota in the following order:\n\n•Overtime/ additional hours within contractual arrangements\n\n•Corporate Bank (where applicable)\n\n•Agencies listed within existing Framework\n\nIf the above options have been exhausted, and a shift remains unfilled, then the shift can be designated and requested as a COVID Rapid Response (CRR) shift.\n\nThe rates payable to staff are shown in the table below;\n\nPay band\tHourly Rate\n1\t£18.42\n2\t£19.76\n3\t£21.62\n4\t£24.70\n5\t£31.30\n6\t£38.74\n7\t£45.50\n8A\t£52.84\n\nUp until the end of January 2022, £14M has been spent on the scheme.","answerHtml":"The COVID Rapid Response Payment Scheme, which commenced in August 2021, is available to all staff on agenda for change terms and conditions.
This scheme operates within designated areas across each HSC Organisation when there is clear evidence of a negative impact on service delivery and staffing to sustain services as a result of COVID related issues.
When a rota is initially developed, ALL options must be explored to cover gaps in the rota in the following order:
•Overtime/ additional hours within contractual arrangements
•Corporate Bank (where applicable)
•Agencies listed within existing Framework
If the above options have been exhausted, and a shift remains unfilled, then the shift can be designated and requested as a COVID Rapid Response (CRR) shift.
The rates payable to staff are shown in the table below;
| Pay band | Hourly Rate |
| 1 | £18.42 |
| 2 | £19.76 |
| 3 | £21.62 |
| 4 | £24.70 |
| 5 | £31.30 |
| 6 | £38.74 |
| 7 | £45.50 |
| 8A | £52.84 |
Up until the end of January 2022, £14M has been spent on the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029783%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368301","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368301"}},{"id":"368300","reference":"AQW 29782/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-15","answerBy":"2022-03-02","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for her assessment of the changes needed in the planning system and its rules to (i) better stimulate the economy; (ii) enhance communities; and (iii) protect the environment.","answerText":"I fully recognise how important planning is in protecting our environment, in shaping local communities and in supporting and developing our economy, now more than ever as we move into recovery from the pandemic. I am also very aware of the need to significantly improve the performance of our two-tier planning system.\n\nMy Department has been working on a number of fronts to improve the system, including the establishment of a cross-departmental Planning Forum to take forward recommendations from a report into the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. A key focus of the work of the Planning Forum is to improve the response times to meet the 21 day statutory consultation target, particularly in relation to major planning applications.\n\nI recognise that the level of statutory consultee resources that are needed to respond to consultations on a timely basis is a critical issue and particularly relevant given the increasing number and complexity of planning application consultations. I recently raised the resourcing issue around planning consultations with the Finance Minister and my Permanent Secretary has written to other relevant Permanent Secretaries seeking their assistance to ensure adequate funding is available for their consultation response teams.\n\nI have also specifically asked to be briefed on a monthly basis by those planning statutory consultees within my own department (DfI Roads and Rivers) so that issues impacting on their performance can be addressed appropriately and in a timely manner. A number of measures have been taken to ensure that this important work is placed on a sustainable and improved footing, including an inescapable resource bid in the 2022/25 budget exercise to meet the funding requirement for the additional staff needed within the Department.\n\nMy Department has also undertaken a review of the implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011, which has identified areas where we could further improve performance of the system for all stakeholders – including within the Department, councils, developers, and the wider public, and work on this will be progressing in the coming months.\n\nMy Department and local government have been working together to deliver a new regional planning IT system, and when it goes live later this year it will also allow for the more efficient processing of applications and bring a range of benefits to the wider planning system.\n\nThe Planning Engagement Partnership, which was convened as part of the Department's ongoing work to improve the planning system and people’s experience of the planning system, will bring forward recommendations on how to enhance the quality and depth of community engagement in the planning process at both the regional and local planning levels.\n\nThese initiatives provide the foundations to take forward real improvements and to address the concerns and challenges in terms of delivering speedy decisions to support economic growth and investment, while at the same time ensuring inclusivity and transparency for local communities and other stakeholders, and producing quality outcomes which protect and enhance our built and natural environment.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise how important planning is in protecting our environment, in shaping local communities and in supporting and developing our economy, now more than ever as we move into recovery from the pandemic. I am also very aware of the need to significantly improve the performance of our two-tier planning system.
My Department has been working on a number of fronts to improve the system, including the establishment of a cross-departmental Planning Forum to take forward recommendations from a report into the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. A key focus of the work of the Planning Forum is to improve the response times to meet the 21 day statutory consultation target, particularly in relation to major planning applications.
I recognise that the level of statutory consultee resources that are needed to respond to consultations on a timely basis is a critical issue and particularly relevant given the increasing number and complexity of planning application consultations. I recently raised the resourcing issue around planning consultations with the Finance Minister and my Permanent Secretary has written to other relevant Permanent Secretaries seeking their assistance to ensure adequate funding is available for their consultation response teams.
I have also specifically asked to be briefed on a monthly basis by those planning statutory consultees within my own department (DfI Roads and Rivers) so that issues impacting on their performance can be addressed appropriately and in a timely manner. A number of measures have been taken to ensure that this important work is placed on a sustainable and improved footing, including an inescapable resource bid in the 2022/25 budget exercise to meet the funding requirement for the additional staff needed within the Department.
My Department has also undertaken a review of the implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011, which has identified areas where we could further improve performance of the system for all stakeholders – including within the Department, councils, developers, and the wider public, and work on this will be progressing in the coming months.
My Department and local government have been working together to deliver a new regional planning IT system, and when it goes live later this year it will also allow for the more efficient processing of applications and bring a range of benefits to the wider planning system.
The Planning Engagement Partnership, which was convened as part of the Department's ongoing work to improve the planning system and people’s experience of the planning system, will bring forward recommendations on how to enhance the quality and depth of community engagement in the planning process at both the regional and local planning levels.
These initiatives provide the foundations to take forward real improvements and to address the concerns and challenges in terms of delivering speedy decisions to support economic growth and investment, while at the same time ensuring inclusivity and transparency for local communities and other stakeholders, and producing quality outcomes which protect and enhance our built and natural environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029782%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368300","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368300"}},{"id":"368299","reference":"AQW 29781/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-15","answerBy":"2022-03-02","answered":"2022-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the prevalence of loneliness in society; and (ii) what steps he is taking to address it.","answerText":"The rising prevalence of loneliness, especially amongst older people and more recently younger people has increasingly been identified in practice and in research. In 2020, Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) research concluded that one in twenty people experience chronic loneliness in Northern Ireland.\n\nIt is recognised that as a society we need to give the issue of loneliness greater priority given its impact on society’s health and wellbeing. Whilst Northern Ireland does not have a specific strategy to address loneliness, it is acknowledged as an important but cross cutting issue which no one organisation or Department can tackle alone.\n\nIn July 2020, the Department of Health completed an initial scoping study involving DoH policy leads, HSC Trusts and other HSC organisations to gather information on what policies and activities were in place to help tackle loneliness from a health and wellbeing perspective.\n\nThis has resulted in the setup of a HSC Loneliness Forum that includes representatives from the five HSC Trusts, NISCC, PHA, DOH policy leads, DEARA and others. The forum will promote collaboration between existing networks and agencies and will also support new work in this area.\n\nThis will complement the work being done already in the DoH on key policy areas that contribute to tackling loneliness with such the Reform of Social Adult Care; the Social Work Strategy and the Mental Health Strategy","answerHtml":"The rising prevalence of loneliness, especially amongst older people and more recently younger people has increasingly been identified in practice and in research. In 2020, Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) research concluded that one in twenty people experience chronic loneliness in Northern Ireland.
It is recognised that as a society we need to give the issue of loneliness greater priority given its impact on society’s health and wellbeing. Whilst Northern Ireland does not have a specific strategy to address loneliness, it is acknowledged as an important but cross cutting issue which no one organisation or Department can tackle alone.
In July 2020, the Department of Health completed an initial scoping study involving DoH policy leads, HSC Trusts and other HSC organisations to gather information on what policies and activities were in place to help tackle loneliness from a health and wellbeing perspective.
This has resulted in the setup of a HSC Loneliness Forum that includes representatives from the five HSC Trusts, NISCC, PHA, DOH policy leads, DEARA and others. The forum will promote collaboration between existing networks and agencies and will also support new work in this area.
This will complement the work being done already in the DoH on key policy areas that contribute to tackling loneliness with such the Reform of Social Adult Care; the Social Work Strategy and the Mental Health Strategy
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029781%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368299","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368299"}},{"id":"368096","reference":"AQW 29704/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-14","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any future projects or schemes she is planning to initiate with the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust to better ensure the wellbeing of (i) current and retired police officers; and (ii) prison staff.","answerText":"Following the publication of the support services reports in January 2021, the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) has been working with the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust (PRRT) to develop support services for retired officers. This new service was launched on 1 February 2022, and includes Psychological Treatment, Physiotherapy and Coaching and Development support. NIPS officials are currently in discussions with the PRRT for the provision of additional services for operational prison staff.\n\nThere are currently no new future projects or schemes that I am planning to initiate with the PRRT for current and retired police officers.","answerHtml":"Following the publication of the support services reports in January 2021, the Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) has been working with the Police Rehabilitation and Retraining Trust (PRRT) to develop support services for retired officers. This new service was launched on 1 February 2022, and includes Psychological Treatment, Physiotherapy and Coaching and Development support. NIPS officials are currently in discussions with the PRRT for the provision of additional services for operational prison staff.
There are currently no new future projects or schemes that I am planning to initiate with the PRRT for current and retired police officers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029704%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368096"}},{"id":"368095","reference":"AQW 29703/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-14","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether contracts between Health and Social Care Trusts and employment agencies providing health and social care workers include a requirement for agency staff to receive similar pay uplifts as those given to staff directly employed Health and Social Care Trusts, including the backdating of pay uplifts.","answerText":"Contracts between HSC trusts and employment agencies do not include a requirement for agency staff to receive similar pay uplifts, or backdating of pay uplifts, as those given to staff directly employed Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nHowever, contracted agencies must comply fully with all employers’ legislation covering statutory entitlements, minimum wage, pensions and HMRC requirements.\n\nWhere staff are employed by agencies, their agency remains their employer and issues relating to pay, pay rises etc are for their employer to consider.","answerHtml":"Contracts between HSC trusts and employment agencies do not include a requirement for agency staff to receive similar pay uplifts, or backdating of pay uplifts, as those given to staff directly employed Health and Social Care Trusts.
However, contracted agencies must comply fully with all employers’ legislation covering statutory entitlements, minimum wage, pensions and HMRC requirements.
Where staff are employed by agencies, their agency remains their employer and issues relating to pay, pay rises etc are for their employer to consider.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029703%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368095"}},{"id":"368094","reference":"AQW 29702/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-14","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the efforts being made to attract agency health and social care staff into permanent employment by Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the impact of staff shortages across the whole health and social care system, including front line service provision. HSC Trusts are under enormous pressure, working to deliver safe and effective healthcare. This has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the associated increased levels of absence due to sickness and self-isolation of HSC staff.\n\nAction on addressing staff pressures is led by each HSC Trust employer with active recruitment to permanent vacancies proceeding at pace. This recruitment is targeted at all professionals including, existing trained staff, newly qualified professionals, agency and locum staff and doctors and nurses who have joined the HSC through our successful international recruitment programmes.\n\nThe Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have maintained pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places at the record high level, (1,325). Increased investment in pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places has been a key priority with an 87% increase in commissioned places since 2015/16, demonstrating the Department’s commitment to address the workforce deficits.\n\nThis reflects the commitment by the NI Executive in January 2020 of an additional 900 pre-registration training places over 3 years and investment of £60m over 5 years to address safe staffing within the NI nursing and midwifery workforce.\n\nThe Department is working closely with HSC Trusts to ensure there is sufficient capacity within the system to meet the current exceptional demands. The HSC Workforce Appeal remains open and there is a strong effort to try and build capacity again with particular focus on certain roles and positions across hospitals and community care\n\nTransformation of health and social care in Northern Ireland is a priority.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the impact of staff shortages across the whole health and social care system, including front line service provision. HSC Trusts are under enormous pressure, working to deliver safe and effective healthcare. This has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the associated increased levels of absence due to sickness and self-isolation of HSC staff.
Action on addressing staff pressures is led by each HSC Trust employer with active recruitment to permanent vacancies proceeding at pace. This recruitment is targeted at all professionals including, existing trained staff, newly qualified professionals, agency and locum staff and doctors and nurses who have joined the HSC through our successful international recruitment programmes.
The Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have maintained pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places at the record high level, (1,325). Increased investment in pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places has been a key priority with an 87% increase in commissioned places since 2015/16, demonstrating the Department’s commitment to address the workforce deficits.
This reflects the commitment by the NI Executive in January 2020 of an additional 900 pre-registration training places over 3 years and investment of £60m over 5 years to address safe staffing within the NI nursing and midwifery workforce.
The Department is working closely with HSC Trusts to ensure there is sufficient capacity within the system to meet the current exceptional demands. The HSC Workforce Appeal remains open and there is a strong effort to try and build capacity again with particular focus on certain roles and positions across hospitals and community care
Transformation of health and social care in Northern Ireland is a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029702%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368094"}},{"id":"368093","reference":"AQW 29701/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-14","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the number of children seeking access to mental health services.","answerText":"It is widely recognised that CAMHS has faced significant pressures in recent years as a result of increased demand for services and resource constraints. These issues have been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has continued to negatively impact young people’s health and wellbeing.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Board and HSC Trusts are working to manage the pressures on CAMHS and to put in place measures to increase capacity and improve performance, including formal reviews of waiting lists on a weekly basis, offering initial assessments via telephone, zoom, or face to face; and exploring greater involvement of the community and voluntary sector.\n\nIn 2021, an additional £500k was agreed to provide additional support to CAMHS to deal with growing pressures in relation to eating disorders. Further funding was made available to Trusts in-year, through slippage from other areas.\n\nIn addition, £1.7m per annum (£1.5m from DoH and £200k from DE) has been agreed for the next three years to establish CAMHS Emotional Health and Wellbeing Teams in schools.\n\nIn the longer term, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 sets out an ambitious vision for the future delivery of mental health services, including children and young people’s provision. From a CAMHS perspective, the strategy includes a number of priority actions, including a commitment to increase the level of investment in CAMHS to 10% of the overall mental health budget.","answerHtml":"It is widely recognised that CAMHS has faced significant pressures in recent years as a result of increased demand for services and resource constraints. These issues have been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has continued to negatively impact young people’s health and wellbeing.
The Health and Social Care Board and HSC Trusts are working to manage the pressures on CAMHS and to put in place measures to increase capacity and improve performance, including formal reviews of waiting lists on a weekly basis, offering initial assessments via telephone, zoom, or face to face; and exploring greater involvement of the community and voluntary sector.
In 2021, an additional £500k was agreed to provide additional support to CAMHS to deal with growing pressures in relation to eating disorders. Further funding was made available to Trusts in-year, through slippage from other areas.
In addition, £1.7m per annum (£1.5m from DoH and £200k from DE) has been agreed for the next three years to establish CAMHS Emotional Health and Wellbeing Teams in schools.
In the longer term, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 sets out an ambitious vision for the future delivery of mental health services, including children and young people’s provision. From a CAMHS perspective, the strategy includes a number of priority actions, including a commitment to increase the level of investment in CAMHS to 10% of the overall mental health budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029701%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=368093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=368093"}},{"id":"367890","reference":"AQW 29639/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the steps he is taking to encourage and facilitate workers from overseas to fill staff vacancies across various industries.","answerText":"Invest NI is currently exploring the potential for an Attract In/Attract Back programme, with the aim of positioning Northern Ireland as an attractive destination for returning diaspora and new international talent – thus ensuring that our economy benefits from access to diverse global experience and skills.","answerHtml":"Invest NI is currently exploring the potential for an Attract In/Attract Back programme, with the aim of positioning Northern Ireland as an attractive destination for returning diaspora and new international talent – thus ensuring that our economy benefits from access to diverse global experience and skills.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029639%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367890","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367890"}},{"id":"367889","reference":"AQW 29638/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the adequacy of travel grants available for medical students on placement.","answerText":"The Department continues to work with stakeholders, including the two local medical schools and student representatives, to ensure that the system of travel and subsistence support provided by the Department when medical students are on clinical placements is affordable, represents value for money, reflects changes in delivery of the medical curriculums and is fair in comparison to the other healthcare professions.","answerHtml":"The Department continues to work with stakeholders, including the two local medical schools and student representatives, to ensure that the system of travel and subsistence support provided by the Department when medical students are on clinical placements is affordable, represents value for money, reflects changes in delivery of the medical curriculums and is fair in comparison to the other healthcare professions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029638%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367889"}},{"id":"367888","reference":"AQW 29637/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether organisations that offer advice and helpline services, funded by her Department, have had their funding increased as a result of an increase in demand.","answerText":"My Department funds a number of organisations that offer advice and helpline services some of whom have had their funding increased as a result of an increase in demand, including:\n\nIn 2021/22, additional funding of £46k was provided to allow Housing Rights to meet the increased demand for advice and assistance being sought via digital enquiries .\n\nAdditional funding in the region of £366k was provided to Advice NI to operate the Covid-19 Community Helpline.\n\nIn March 2020 I announced £1.82million additional funding for three years for the independent advice sector to assist people with benefit changes as part of the Mitigations. This is supporting and protecting 50 front line jobs including funding for appeals and representation services.","answerHtml":"My Department funds a number of organisations that offer advice and helpline services some of whom have had their funding increased as a result of an increase in demand, including:
In 2021/22, additional funding of £46k was provided to allow Housing Rights to meet the increased demand for advice and assistance being sought via digital enquiries .
Additional funding in the region of £366k was provided to Advice NI to operate the Covid-19 Community Helpline.
In March 2020 I announced £1.82million additional funding for three years for the independent advice sector to assist people with benefit changes as part of the Mitigations. This is supporting and protecting 50 front line jobs including funding for appeals and representation services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029637%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367888"}},{"id":"367887","reference":"AQW 29636/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail the steps he is taking to increase the uptake of apprenticeship courses; and (ii) for his assessment of how current staff shortages, across all industries, can be mitigated by increasing the numbers of apprentices.","answerText":"My Department does not create apprenticeships but works with business, industry bodies and education providers to ensure that the apprenticeship programmes meet the skills needs of the employer and delivers quality training for the individual apprentice. There are approximately 10,000 participants across the apprenticeship programmes and currently no evidence of any issues around capacity.\n\nMy Department provides funding for the delivery of apprenticeship training and oversees the operation of the apprenticeship training delivery infrastructure, which is provided by further education colleges, higher education institutions, the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise and contracted training suppliers. Training at levels 2 and 3, aligned to over 100 apprenticeship frameworks, is delivered through the ApprenticeshipsNI programme with the Higher Level Apprenticeship programme offering training, from level 4 to 7, in over 30 occupational areas.\n\nSupporting apprenticeship promotional campaigns help to highlight the benefits of apprenticeships to both potential apprentices and employers. These twice yearly advertising campaigns, which are across a range of media, take place during NI Apprenticeship Week in January/February and in August for GCSE / AS / A2 results. In addition, initiatives such as Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week, which ran from 7th to 11th February 2022, are a great opportunity to highlight apprenticeships as a career pathway. This year’s Week included over 40 virtual and physical events hosted by training providers, local authorities and businesses showcasing apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors.\n\nI am very aware of the labour shortages facing many sectors. My Department is working to provide skilled individuals to help fill these gaps in the labour market, with vocational education a key element, both in terms of skills for young people, as well as for those who want to reskill or upskill. Apprentices are committed; they learn and adapt quickly to their new environment, quickly adding real value to their employers. Through the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards and visits to companies employing apprentices, I have seen at first hand the contribution apprentices make. The reintroduction of all age apprenticeships at level 2 and level 3 has been a long standing commitment for my Department as a means of helping to address skills gaps however the proposed draft Budget settlement for 2022-25 will most likely mean that my Department has insufficient budget to take this initiative forward at this time.","answerHtml":"My Department does not create apprenticeships but works with business, industry bodies and education providers to ensure that the apprenticeship programmes meet the skills needs of the employer and delivers quality training for the individual apprentice. There are approximately 10,000 participants across the apprenticeship programmes and currently no evidence of any issues around capacity.
My Department provides funding for the delivery of apprenticeship training and oversees the operation of the apprenticeship training delivery infrastructure, which is provided by further education colleges, higher education institutions, the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise and contracted training suppliers. Training at levels 2 and 3, aligned to over 100 apprenticeship frameworks, is delivered through the ApprenticeshipsNI programme with the Higher Level Apprenticeship programme offering training, from level 4 to 7, in over 30 occupational areas.
Supporting apprenticeship promotional campaigns help to highlight the benefits of apprenticeships to both potential apprentices and employers. These twice yearly advertising campaigns, which are across a range of media, take place during NI Apprenticeship Week in January/February and in August for GCSE / AS / A2 results. In addition, initiatives such as Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week, which ran from 7th to 11th February 2022, are a great opportunity to highlight apprenticeships as a career pathway. This year’s Week included over 40 virtual and physical events hosted by training providers, local authorities and businesses showcasing apprenticeships across a wide range of sectors.
I am very aware of the labour shortages facing many sectors. My Department is working to provide skilled individuals to help fill these gaps in the labour market, with vocational education a key element, both in terms of skills for young people, as well as for those who want to reskill or upskill. Apprentices are committed; they learn and adapt quickly to their new environment, quickly adding real value to their employers. Through the Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Awards and visits to companies employing apprentices, I have seen at first hand the contribution apprentices make. The reintroduction of all age apprenticeships at level 2 and level 3 has been a long standing commitment for my Department as a means of helping to address skills gaps however the proposed draft Budget settlement for 2022-25 will most likely mean that my Department has insufficient budget to take this initiative forward at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029636%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367887"}},{"id":"367886","reference":"AQW 29635/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-11","answerBy":"2022-02-28","answered":"2022-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the rise in supermarket food prices; and (ii) to detail what conversations he has had with (a) supermarkets; (b) other food producers and suppliers, regarding mitigations for these rises.","answerText":"My Department has not carried out any assessment into the rise of supermarket food prices, however the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, and arm’s length body of the Department for the Economy, is working with the Office for National Statistics to pilot the first ever Regional Consumer Prices Index (rCPI). This experimental research will enable the tracking of prices and inflation specifically for Northern Ireland households. The initial report is due to be produced this year.\n\nMy Department has not had any conversations or meetings with supermarkets or other food producers/suppliers regarding mitigations for these rises.","answerHtml":"My Department has not carried out any assessment into the rise of supermarket food prices, however the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, and arm’s length body of the Department for the Economy, is working with the Office for National Statistics to pilot the first ever Regional Consumer Prices Index (rCPI). This experimental research will enable the tracking of prices and inflation specifically for Northern Ireland households. The initial report is due to be produced this year.
My Department has not had any conversations or meetings with supermarkets or other food producers/suppliers regarding mitigations for these rises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029635%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367886"}},{"id":"367547","reference":"AQW 29561/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-10","answerBy":"2022-02-25","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on (i) the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer; (ii) the reasons for the delay in its implementation; and (iii) the reassurances she is giving football clubs that there will be no financial impact as a result of the delay.","answerText":"I reiterate that moving this Programme forward remains a priority for me as it has been since I took up office.\n\nMy officials have worked to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme by undertaking a Refresh and Re-engagement' exercise.\n\nThat work has been essential and has involved key stakeholders who have made a valuable contribution as members of the Advisory Working Group.\n\nDepartment’s officials continue to investigate facility needs identified through ongoing discussions with individual clubs and organisations.\n\nThis work is progressing at pace to enable the Programme to be launched and for the funding to be released. The Advisory Working Group continues to meet to provide advice and guidance to officials as the development work moves forward.\n\nThere are additional and immediate challenges created by the resignation of the First Minister and the consequent collapse of the Executive, which, in terms of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, means I cannot bring new proposals to the Executive for endorsement and agreement as would have been required.\n\nThese problems were not created by anyone in the football sector and I am determined that the sector does not suffer because of the actions of others. I remain determined to find a way around these difficulties to deliver the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme and the essential funding needed by football clubs.\n\nI met with representatives from IFA and NIFL, and have agreed to work with them to progress this project to application stage.\n\nI remain committed to moving this Programme forward and will continue to work to progress it. I am committed to working with fellow Ministers and key stakeholders to deliver for football at all levels.\n\nI have written to Ministers who remain in post asking them to support my efforts to progress this Programme as a matter of urgency.","answerHtml":"I reiterate that moving this Programme forward remains a priority for me as it has been since I took up office.
My officials have worked to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme by undertaking a Refresh and Re-engagement' exercise.
That work has been essential and has involved key stakeholders who have made a valuable contribution as members of the Advisory Working Group.
Department’s officials continue to investigate facility needs identified through ongoing discussions with individual clubs and organisations.
This work is progressing at pace to enable the Programme to be launched and for the funding to be released. The Advisory Working Group continues to meet to provide advice and guidance to officials as the development work moves forward.
There are additional and immediate challenges created by the resignation of the First Minister and the consequent collapse of the Executive, which, in terms of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, means I cannot bring new proposals to the Executive for endorsement and agreement as would have been required.
These problems were not created by anyone in the football sector and I am determined that the sector does not suffer because of the actions of others. I remain determined to find a way around these difficulties to deliver the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme and the essential funding needed by football clubs.
I met with representatives from IFA and NIFL, and have agreed to work with them to progress this project to application stage.
I remain committed to moving this Programme forward and will continue to work to progress it. I am committed to working with fellow Ministers and key stakeholders to deliver for football at all levels.
I have written to Ministers who remain in post asking them to support my efforts to progress this Programme as a matter of urgency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029561%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367547","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367547"}},{"id":"367546","reference":"AQW 29560/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-10","answerBy":"2022-02-25","answered":"2022-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of the rise in the number of recorded hate crimes, particularly racist hate crimes; and (ii) to detail what steps she is taking to address this rise.","answerText":"The most recent hate crime statistics, published by PSNI in September 2021, shows there were more hate crimes recorded across each hate motivation strand (racist, homophobic, sectarian, disability, faith/religion and transphobic) when compared with the previous twelve months. Recorded hate incidents also increased across all motivation strands, with the exception of transphobic incidents, when compared with the previous twelve months. Whilst levels of racist hate crime had trended downwards since 2014/15, this has seen an increase since 2018/19 and is currently the most recorded motivation.\n\nHate Crime is generally underreported, so an increase in reported incidents could indicate a growing confidence in the system to report such matters, in addition to increases due to how some people have decided to target protected groups, such as race, in response to issues such as the protocol, covid pandemic and increase in new comers to Northern Ireland.\n\nAddressing hate crime continues to be a priority for me. This requires a collaborative response with partners in relation to tackling enabling factors of intolerance, prejudice and hate, as well as a robust legislative response to ensure action is taken against offenders, where necessary, and to increase victims’ confidence in the system that brings offenders to justice.\n\nIn response to Judge Marrinan’s recommendations on strengthening hate crime legislation, I have published phase one of a public consultation to inform the development of a Hate Crime Bill. Phase two of the consultation will follow later in the year with the intention of introducing a Hate Crime Bill in the next mandate. This Bill will improve the criminal justice process for victims of hate crime, including race hate crime victims; help inform rehabilitative work and act as a deterrent for potential perpetrators; and reduce the risk of reoffending and further victimisation.\n\nOn an operational level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), which are jointly funded by the Department of Justice and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, have a role in addressing hate crime, and the fear of hate crime through specific local Hate Crime projects. For example, provision of support to initiatives raising awareness of the impact of hate crimes and training projects which engage minority community members on bias, language and stereotypes and provides strategies for “speaking up” against hate crime.\n\nMy Department also chairs the multi-agency Hate Crime Delivery Group (HCDG), which assists delivery of the strategic priorities in the draft Programme for Government 2016-2021, in relation to working across government to develop new approaches to dealing with harm and vulnerability, in this context hate crime. The HCDG monitors trends in hate crime and delivers a Hate Crime Action Plan which aims to ensure connectivity between partners and coordinate activities to address hate crime across Northern Ireland.\n\nMy officials have also have been working with other Departments to tackle the enabling factors of hate crime and align respective strategies and policies, for example, with The Executive Office (TEO) to connect the TEO Racial Equality Strategy and Good Relations Programme with my Department’s work on Community Safety.","answerHtml":"The most recent hate crime statistics, published by PSNI in September 2021, shows there were more hate crimes recorded across each hate motivation strand (racist, homophobic, sectarian, disability, faith/religion and transphobic) when compared with the previous twelve months. Recorded hate incidents also increased across all motivation strands, with the exception of transphobic incidents, when compared with the previous twelve months. Whilst levels of racist hate crime had trended downwards since 2014/15, this has seen an increase since 2018/19 and is currently the most recorded motivation.
Hate Crime is generally underreported, so an increase in reported incidents could indicate a growing confidence in the system to report such matters, in addition to increases due to how some people have decided to target protected groups, such as race, in response to issues such as the protocol, covid pandemic and increase in new comers to Northern Ireland.
Addressing hate crime continues to be a priority for me. This requires a collaborative response with partners in relation to tackling enabling factors of intolerance, prejudice and hate, as well as a robust legislative response to ensure action is taken against offenders, where necessary, and to increase victims’ confidence in the system that brings offenders to justice.
In response to Judge Marrinan’s recommendations on strengthening hate crime legislation, I have published phase one of a public consultation to inform the development of a Hate Crime Bill. Phase two of the consultation will follow later in the year with the intention of introducing a Hate Crime Bill in the next mandate. This Bill will improve the criminal justice process for victims of hate crime, including race hate crime victims; help inform rehabilitative work and act as a deterrent for potential perpetrators; and reduce the risk of reoffending and further victimisation.
On an operational level, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), which are jointly funded by the Department of Justice and the Northern Ireland Policing Board, have a role in addressing hate crime, and the fear of hate crime through specific local Hate Crime projects. For example, provision of support to initiatives raising awareness of the impact of hate crimes and training projects which engage minority community members on bias, language and stereotypes and provides strategies for “speaking up” against hate crime.
My Department also chairs the multi-agency Hate Crime Delivery Group (HCDG), which assists delivery of the strategic priorities in the draft Programme for Government 2016-2021, in relation to working across government to develop new approaches to dealing with harm and vulnerability, in this context hate crime. The HCDG monitors trends in hate crime and delivers a Hate Crime Action Plan which aims to ensure connectivity between partners and coordinate activities to address hate crime across Northern Ireland.
My officials have also have been working with other Departments to tackle the enabling factors of hate crime and align respective strategies and policies, for example, with The Executive Office (TEO) to connect the TEO Racial Equality Strategy and Good Relations Programme with my Department’s work on Community Safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029560%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367546"}},{"id":"367545","reference":"AQW 29559/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-10","answerBy":"2022-02-25","answered":"2022-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to Tourism Ireland’s Green Button Embrace a Giant Spirit 2022 Campaign, (i) what conversations has he had with tourism and hospitality stakeholders in East Londonderry in order to maximise the opportunities to tourism and businesses in the area; and (ii) which new (a) tourism; and (b) hospitality assets in this area have been identified as having particular potential to grow and appeal to the GB tourist market.","answerText":"EAGS Brand and Experience Development\n\nIn November 2019, Tourism NI launched its new Experience Brand, Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit, which features a collection of visitor experiences in Northern Ireland including from the East Londonderry constituency. Tourism NI, in partnership with local authorities under the new brand ambassador programme, has been engaging with many tourism businesses to achieve brand alignment with their experiences.\n\nA new visitor experience development framework was developed and a number of local businesses within the East Londonderry constituency have been successful in completing the five stage programme. These include Causeway Coast Foodie Tours, Dalriada Kingdom Tours, Frankie Creith Art, Crindle\n\nStables, Aquaholics, Away A Wee Walk, Ponderosa Bar, Whiteriver Charters, Chocolate Manor and the National Trust.\n\nTourism NI and Causeway Coast and Glens Council (CCGC) will continue to work in partnership to develop further visitor experiences in the area so they can meet the expectations of both domestic and international visitors in the months and years ahead. With the Covid19 pandemic, many tourism businesses have pivoted their resources and experience products to the closer to home markets including GB in the short term with a longer-term view to preparing for industry opportunities in overseas markets.\n\nGrowth Deals\n\nThere are significant opportunities that exist around CCGC’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal. Further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CCGC on their Regional Growth Deal, including to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle. This work will ensure that the investment in tourism is aligned to Tourism NI’s key strategic objectives.\n\nTourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CCGC, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects, including the planning for and supporting the delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025. In 2019, the Open attracted significant levels of spectators from the GB market and was worth an estimated £100m to the local economy.","answerHtml":"EAGS Brand and Experience Development
In November 2019, Tourism NI launched its new Experience Brand, Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit, which features a collection of visitor experiences in Northern Ireland including from the East Londonderry constituency. Tourism NI, in partnership with local authorities under the new brand ambassador programme, has been engaging with many tourism businesses to achieve brand alignment with their experiences.
A new visitor experience development framework was developed and a number of local businesses within the East Londonderry constituency have been successful in completing the five stage programme. These include Causeway Coast Foodie Tours, Dalriada Kingdom Tours, Frankie Creith Art, Crindle
Stables, Aquaholics, Away A Wee Walk, Ponderosa Bar, Whiteriver Charters, Chocolate Manor and the National Trust.
Tourism NI and Causeway Coast and Glens Council (CCGC) will continue to work in partnership to develop further visitor experiences in the area so they can meet the expectations of both domestic and international visitors in the months and years ahead. With the Covid19 pandemic, many tourism businesses have pivoted their resources and experience products to the closer to home markets including GB in the short term with a longer-term view to preparing for industry opportunities in overseas markets.
Growth Deals
There are significant opportunities that exist around CCGC’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal. Further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CCGC on their Regional Growth Deal, including to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle. This work will ensure that the investment in tourism is aligned to Tourism NI’s key strategic objectives.
Tourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CCGC, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects, including the planning for and supporting the delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025. In 2019, the Open attracted significant levels of spectators from the GB market and was worth an estimated £100m to the local economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029559%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367545"}},{"id":"367544","reference":"AQW 29558/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-10","answerBy":"2022-02-25","answered":"2022-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the rising number of children seeking access to mental health services; and (ii) to detail the steps he is taking in the short, medium and long term to facilitate better and more timely access to these services.","answerText":"It is widely recognised that CAMHS has faced significant pressures in recent years as a result of increased demand for services and resource constraints. These issues have been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has continued to negatively impact young people’s health and wellbeing.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Board and HSC Trusts are working to manage the pressures on CAMHS and to put in place measures to increase capacity and improve performance, including: a formal review of waiting lists on a weekly basis; offering initial assessments via telephone, zoom or face to face; and exploring greater involvement of the community and voluntary sector.\n\nIn 2021, an additional £500k was allocated to provide additional support to CAMHS to deal with growing pressures specifically in relation to eating disorders. Further funding was made available to Trusts in-year, through slippage from other areas.\n\nIn addition, £1.7m per annum (£1.5m from DoH and £200k from DE) has been agreed for the next three years to establish CAMHS Emotional Health and Wellbeing Teams in schools.\n\nIn the longer term, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 sets out an ambitious vision for the future delivery of mental health services, including children and young people provision. From a CAMHS perspective, the strategy includes a number of priority actions, including a commitment to increase the level of investment in CAMHS to 10% of the overall mental health budget.","answerHtml":"It is widely recognised that CAMHS has faced significant pressures in recent years as a result of increased demand for services and resource constraints. These issues have been further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has continued to negatively impact young people’s health and wellbeing.
The Health and Social Care Board and HSC Trusts are working to manage the pressures on CAMHS and to put in place measures to increase capacity and improve performance, including: a formal review of waiting lists on a weekly basis; offering initial assessments via telephone, zoom or face to face; and exploring greater involvement of the community and voluntary sector.
In 2021, an additional £500k was allocated to provide additional support to CAMHS to deal with growing pressures specifically in relation to eating disorders. Further funding was made available to Trusts in-year, through slippage from other areas.
In addition, £1.7m per annum (£1.5m from DoH and £200k from DE) has been agreed for the next three years to establish CAMHS Emotional Health and Wellbeing Teams in schools.
In the longer term, the Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031 sets out an ambitious vision for the future delivery of mental health services, including children and young people provision. From a CAMHS perspective, the strategy includes a number of priority actions, including a commitment to increase the level of investment in CAMHS to 10% of the overall mental health budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029558%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367544"}},{"id":"367543","reference":"AQW 29557/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-10","answerBy":"2022-02-25","answered":"2022-03-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the impact of rising construction materials costs on the roll-out and implementation of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"I reiterate that moving this Programme forward remains a priority for me as it has been since I took up office.\n\nMy officials have worked to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme by undertaking a Refresh and Re-engagement' exercise.\n\nThat work has been essential and has involved key stakeholders who have made a valuable contribution as members of the Advisory Working Group. This includes officials from NIFL and the IFA who provide insight and expertise in what has been a collaborative approach to identifying the facility needs for football at all levels.\n\nThis work is progressing at pace to enable the Programme to be launched and for the funding to be released. The Advisory Working Group continues to meet to provide advice and guidance to officials as the development work moves forward.\n\nThere are additional and immediate challenges created by the resignation of the First Minister and the consequent collapse of the Executive, which, in terms of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, means I cannot bring new proposals to the Executive for endorsement and agreement as would have been required.\n\nThese problems were not created by anyone in the football sector and I am determined that the sector does not suffer because of the actions of others. I remain determined to find a way around these difficulties to deliver the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme and the essential funding needed by football clubs.\n\nI met with representatives from IFA and NIFL, and have agreed to work with them to progress this project to application stage.\n\nI remain committed to moving this Programme forward and will continue to work to progress it. I am committed to working with fellow Ministers and key stakeholders to deliver for football at all levels.\n\nI have written to Ministers who remain in post asking them to support my efforts to progress this Programme as a matter of urgency.","answerHtml":"I reiterate that moving this Programme forward remains a priority for me as it has been since I took up office.
My officials have worked to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme by undertaking a Refresh and Re-engagement' exercise.
That work has been essential and has involved key stakeholders who have made a valuable contribution as members of the Advisory Working Group. This includes officials from NIFL and the IFA who provide insight and expertise in what has been a collaborative approach to identifying the facility needs for football at all levels.
This work is progressing at pace to enable the Programme to be launched and for the funding to be released. The Advisory Working Group continues to meet to provide advice and guidance to officials as the development work moves forward.
There are additional and immediate challenges created by the resignation of the First Minister and the consequent collapse of the Executive, which, in terms of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme, means I cannot bring new proposals to the Executive for endorsement and agreement as would have been required.
These problems were not created by anyone in the football sector and I am determined that the sector does not suffer because of the actions of others. I remain determined to find a way around these difficulties to deliver the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme and the essential funding needed by football clubs.
I met with representatives from IFA and NIFL, and have agreed to work with them to progress this project to application stage.
I remain committed to moving this Programme forward and will continue to work to progress it. I am committed to working with fellow Ministers and key stakeholders to deliver for football at all levels.
I have written to Ministers who remain in post asking them to support my efforts to progress this Programme as a matter of urgency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029557%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367543"}},{"id":"370175","reference":"AQO 3170/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-10","answerBy":"2022-03-01","answered":"2022-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the work he is doing to ensure domiciliary care packages are in place for eligible hospital patients so they can be discharged when they are well enough.","answerText":"Accessing domiciliary care for patients at the point of hospital discharge remains a challenge for Trusts. However, my Department continues to work to ensure the provision of a high quality domiciliary care service.\n\nTrusts continue to review their domiciliary care capacity, workforce rotas and waiting lists to ensure that every resource is effectively deployed for those in hospital or in the community who need care packages. Trusts also monitor and report on hospital and domiciliary care waiting lists to Health and Social Care Board, which allows for regional oversight of this issue.\n\nWhile there are a range of factors which can impact upon the delivery of care ultimately the objective should be to meet the assessed needs of the service user, whether care is provided by the statutory or independent sector.\n\nAlthough this would ideally be within an individual’s own home, there are occasions where this demand cannot be met. To allow for this, charges for care home beds are currently being waived to allow people to leave hospital and wait for their community care package to be arranged in a care home setting, free of charge. This is an interim measure intended to support the wider Health and Social Care system.\n\nI have recognised the need for action to support the sector over the winter period and was therefore pleased to confirm a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff. This funding is being rolled out to providers through Trusts and as at 31 December 2021 expenditure of £6.7m had been incurred by HSC Trusts.\n\nI have been clear that this additional funding must be used to stabilise and enhance capacity across the sector to see us through the challenging winter period.\n\nI am pleased to say that there has already been feedback on how this new funding is helping the sector, stimulating the market and supporting new workers to enter the service.\n\nMy Department will continue to work in conjunction with all Trusts, the Health and Social Care Board, and providers, to ensure the Health and Social Care system continues to provide care for those who need it.","answerHtml":"Accessing domiciliary care for patients at the point of hospital discharge remains a challenge for Trusts. However, my Department continues to work to ensure the provision of a high quality domiciliary care service.
Trusts continue to review their domiciliary care capacity, workforce rotas and waiting lists to ensure that every resource is effectively deployed for those in hospital or in the community who need care packages. Trusts also monitor and report on hospital and domiciliary care waiting lists to Health and Social Care Board, which allows for regional oversight of this issue.
While there are a range of factors which can impact upon the delivery of care ultimately the objective should be to meet the assessed needs of the service user, whether care is provided by the statutory or independent sector.
Although this would ideally be within an individual’s own home, there are occasions where this demand cannot be met. To allow for this, charges for care home beds are currently being waived to allow people to leave hospital and wait for their community care package to be arranged in a care home setting, free of charge. This is an interim measure intended to support the wider Health and Social Care system.
I have recognised the need for action to support the sector over the winter period and was therefore pleased to confirm a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff. This funding is being rolled out to providers through Trusts and as at 31 December 2021 expenditure of £6.7m had been incurred by HSC Trusts.
I have been clear that this additional funding must be used to stabilise and enhance capacity across the sector to see us through the challenging winter period.
I am pleased to say that there has already been feedback on how this new funding is helping the sector, stimulating the market and supporting new workers to enter the service.
My Department will continue to work in conjunction with all Trusts, the Health and Social Care Board, and providers, to ensure the Health and Social Care system continues to provide care for those who need it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203170%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=370175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=370175"}},{"id":"367351","reference":"AQW 29483/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what steps she is taking to address the growing incidence of (i) online sexual crimes, and (ii) sexual offences more widely.","answerText":"I am aware of the recent rise of sexual offences reported to the police. Whilst it is important to remain alert to any growing trend, an increase in offending can also be an indication that victims feel more confident to come forward to report the crime to police in order to pursue justice.\n\nI am committed to ensuring that the law is as robust as possible in protecting our community from sexual predators both online and offline. I am also intent in ensuring that adequate systems are in place to manage the risk of re-offending and that victims are supported.\n\nThere is already a robust legislative framework in place to help deal with a range of sexual offending behaviours which carry hefty penalties for those committing the more serious offences. The majority of sexual offences are contained within the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008, but there are a number of other legislative frameworks which contain vital protections, including those specifically directed towards children.\n\nAs well as sexual offences, a number of statutory powers have been created to ensure the management of risk from further offending to include court imposed orders such as the Sexual Offences Prevention Orders and notification requirements (commonly known as the sex offender register). These are valuable tools used by our public protection partners who work on a multi-agency basis within the Public Protection Arrangements Northern Ireland.\n\nThere is, however, room for improvement in an evolving society, and in responding to the increasing use of technology, which we know has been particularly prevalent during the pandemic.\n\nI am strengthening the law within the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Bill, which is currently making its way through the Assembly and which proposes the introduction of a number of new offences. This includes the specific offences of up-skirting and down-blousing and of an adult pretending to be a child for the purposes of child grooming.\n\nMy Department is also working closely with the UK Government to ensure Northern Ireland’s interests are included in the work of the new Online Safety Bill. As a reserved matter, the UK-wide Bill will place obligations on online platforms to protect users, including by proactively identifying and removing priority illegal content. The UK Government recently announced that extra priority illegal offences will be added to the Bill, including in respect of some sexual offences.\n\nAs well as legislative protection, a range of practical measures are available which help deal with those affected by sexual crime. This includes the 24hr Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline and a new advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse engaging with the criminal justice system.\n\nImproving confidence in the system is important to me and whilst I know that the progression of sexual offences within the justice system, by their nature, can be extremely challenging, I firmly believe that the improvements we are making will make a real difference to victims of sexual crime.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the recent rise of sexual offences reported to the police. Whilst it is important to remain alert to any growing trend, an increase in offending can also be an indication that victims feel more confident to come forward to report the crime to police in order to pursue justice.
I am committed to ensuring that the law is as robust as possible in protecting our community from sexual predators both online and offline. I am also intent in ensuring that adequate systems are in place to manage the risk of re-offending and that victims are supported.
There is already a robust legislative framework in place to help deal with a range of sexual offending behaviours which carry hefty penalties for those committing the more serious offences. The majority of sexual offences are contained within the Sexual Offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008, but there are a number of other legislative frameworks which contain vital protections, including those specifically directed towards children.
As well as sexual offences, a number of statutory powers have been created to ensure the management of risk from further offending to include court imposed orders such as the Sexual Offences Prevention Orders and notification requirements (commonly known as the sex offender register). These are valuable tools used by our public protection partners who work on a multi-agency basis within the Public Protection Arrangements Northern Ireland.
There is, however, room for improvement in an evolving society, and in responding to the increasing use of technology, which we know has been particularly prevalent during the pandemic.
I am strengthening the law within the Justice (Sexual Offences and Trafficking Victims) Bill, which is currently making its way through the Assembly and which proposes the introduction of a number of new offences. This includes the specific offences of up-skirting and down-blousing and of an adult pretending to be a child for the purposes of child grooming.
My Department is also working closely with the UK Government to ensure Northern Ireland’s interests are included in the work of the new Online Safety Bill. As a reserved matter, the UK-wide Bill will place obligations on online platforms to protect users, including by proactively identifying and removing priority illegal content. The UK Government recently announced that extra priority illegal offences will be added to the Bill, including in respect of some sexual offences.
As well as legislative protection, a range of practical measures are available which help deal with those affected by sexual crime. This includes the 24hr Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline and a new advocacy service for victims of domestic and sexual abuse engaging with the criminal justice system.
Improving confidence in the system is important to me and whilst I know that the progression of sexual offences within the justice system, by their nature, can be extremely challenging, I firmly believe that the improvements we are making will make a real difference to victims of sexual crime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029483%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367351"}},{"id":"367350","reference":"AQW 29482/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the accessibility of the 212 bus route to people living in rural areas surrounding Dungiven who do not have a car; and (ii) to detail any consideration she has given to creating a connecting shuttle service for these communities to link up with the 212 service at given times.","answerText":"The accessibility and inclusivity of our public transport network is important for me. In addition to the 212 Belfast to Derry service, public transport users can avail of the 246 Express Service from Limavady to Belfast via Dungiven. There are also 6 local service routes providing connectivity from local communities to Dungiven which allow onward connections on the 212 and 246.\n\nIn examining this issue I have been advised that to date shuttle services connecting to Express Bus or Rail have not proven to be very successful and can be disproportionately costly to provide. Park & Ride solutions have proven to provide good access to the network in rural areas however, it is accepted that this is not a solution for those without access to a car. It is also worth noting that my Department provides resource funding, via the Rural Transport Fund, to support eight Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) to provide Dial-a-Lift (DAL). DAL is a specialised transport service open to those living in rural areas who do not have access to a car and have a reduced mobility and/or who find it difficult to avail of public transport due to rurality. As well as providing access to local services, these providers can link our rurally isolated citizens to the public transport network within their specified operational areas.","answerHtml":"The accessibility and inclusivity of our public transport network is important for me. In addition to the 212 Belfast to Derry service, public transport users can avail of the 246 Express Service from Limavady to Belfast via Dungiven. There are also 6 local service routes providing connectivity from local communities to Dungiven which allow onward connections on the 212 and 246.
In examining this issue I have been advised that to date shuttle services connecting to Express Bus or Rail have not proven to be very successful and can be disproportionately costly to provide. Park & Ride solutions have proven to provide good access to the network in rural areas however, it is accepted that this is not a solution for those without access to a car. It is also worth noting that my Department provides resource funding, via the Rural Transport Fund, to support eight Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) to provide Dial-a-Lift (DAL). DAL is a specialised transport service open to those living in rural areas who do not have access to a car and have a reduced mobility and/or who find it difficult to avail of public transport due to rurality. As well as providing access to local services, these providers can link our rurally isolated citizens to the public transport network within their specified operational areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029482%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367350"}},{"id":"367349","reference":"AQW 29481/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the benefits of preventative and support visits for people aged 75 and over, including their potential impact on (i) life-expectancy; (ii) wellbeing; and (iii) admissions to hospital and care settings.","answerText":"The recent launch of the Reform of Adult Social Care consultation paper is proposing the introduction of the offer of preventive/support visits for anyone aged over 75. The proposal is based on the recommendations of COPNI research on the Review of Legislation and Policy Guidance relating to Adult Social Care in NI (June 2015) which showed that the introduction of a similar model in Denmark reduced mortality, improved functioning and reduced admissions to care settings and hospitals among older people.\n\nThe benefits for this prevention and earlier intervention service will also support people’s independence for longer, reduce the likelihood of complex needs being developed, help people to take measures to achieve their own social wellbeing, improve opportunities for individual and societal wellbeing, reduce demand for complex needs provision and reduce costs.\n\nThis type of preventive approach will requires a significant balance shift away from transactional and reactive services with early planning and signposting in relation to social support, family carer support, community connections and local resources, health and social wellbeing, finances, advance care planning and life stage planning. This approach will be further investigated following the feedback on the consultation.","answerHtml":"The recent launch of the Reform of Adult Social Care consultation paper is proposing the introduction of the offer of preventive/support visits for anyone aged over 75. The proposal is based on the recommendations of COPNI research on the Review of Legislation and Policy Guidance relating to Adult Social Care in NI (June 2015) which showed that the introduction of a similar model in Denmark reduced mortality, improved functioning and reduced admissions to care settings and hospitals among older people.
The benefits for this prevention and earlier intervention service will also support people’s independence for longer, reduce the likelihood of complex needs being developed, help people to take measures to achieve their own social wellbeing, improve opportunities for individual and societal wellbeing, reduce demand for complex needs provision and reduce costs.
This type of preventive approach will requires a significant balance shift away from transactional and reactive services with early planning and signposting in relation to social support, family carer support, community connections and local resources, health and social wellbeing, finances, advance care planning and life stage planning. This approach will be further investigated following the feedback on the consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029481%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367349"}},{"id":"367348","reference":"AQW 29480/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of how changing GCSE and A-Level grade boundaries in England, Scotland and Wales will impact pupils and pupils’ relative grades in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail any plans she has to make similar changes to assessments.","answerText":"As has already been announced by CCEA, in November 2021, there will be a generous approach to standards and grading for CCEA qualifications in 2022. CCEA took the approaches adopted by the other exam regulators into account and confirmed that examiner judgement will be at the heart of the awarding process.\n\nCCEA examiners will take account of the disruption to learning experienced by students, and as in England and Wales, the expectation is that this will result in outcomes that are higher than 2019, the last year when exams took place.","answerHtml":"As has already been announced by CCEA, in November 2021, there will be a generous approach to standards and grading for CCEA qualifications in 2022. CCEA took the approaches adopted by the other exam regulators into account and confirmed that examiner judgement will be at the heart of the awarding process.
CCEA examiners will take account of the disruption to learning experienced by students, and as in England and Wales, the expectation is that this will result in outcomes that are higher than 2019, the last year when exams took place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029480%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367348"}},{"id":"367347","reference":"AQW 29479/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-09","answerBy":"2022-02-24","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to details of the groups or projects in East Londonderry that have (i) applied for; and (ii) received funding from her Department to run programmes or events related to the celebration of The Queen’s 2022 Platinum Jubilee.","answerText":"I refer the member to AQO 2967/17-22","answerHtml":"I refer the member to AQO 2967/17-22
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029479%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367347"}},{"id":"367229","reference":"AQW 29406/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the number of business premises that have been vacated in each of the last five years in the town centres of (a) Coleraine; (b) Limavady; (c) Portrush; (d) Portstewart; (e) Kilrea; (f) Garvagh; and (g) Dungiven; and (ii) the corresponding number of business premises newly occupied in each of these years.","answerText":"The table attached provides an analysis of change in vacancy status of non-domestic properties in the town centres of Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart over a 5 year period. Since information is not available for the town centres of Dungiven, Garvagh and Kilrea, Ward level data has been provided for the wards of Kilrea, Garvagh and Dungiven over the same time period.\n\nCategory\tColeraine\tDungiven*\tGarvagh*\tKilrea*\tLimavady\tPortrush\tPortstewart\nOccupied for past 5 years\t441\t111\t133\t160\t201\t108\t80\n63.5%\t65.3%\t79.2%\t78.4%\t69.8%\t80.0%\t73.4%\nVacant for past 5 years\t112\t28\t20\t25\t28\t13\t9\n16.1%\t16.5%\t11.9%\t12.3%\t9.7%\t9.6%\t8.3%\nVacated after a period of occupancy [been vacated]\t85\t23\t10\t11\t34\t5\t15\n12.2%\t13.5%\t6.0%\t5.4%\t11.8%\t3.7%\t13.8%\nOccupied after a period of vacancy [been occupied]\t57\t8\t5\t8\t25\t9\t5\n8.2%\t4.7%\t3.0%\t3.9%\t8.7%\t6.7%\t4.6%\nTotal number of Non-Domestic Properties in each town*\t695\t170\t168\t204\t288\t135\t109\n* Ward level data","answerHtml":"The table attached provides an analysis of change in vacancy status of non-domestic properties in the town centres of Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart over a 5 year period. Since information is not available for the town centres of Dungiven, Garvagh and Kilrea, Ward level data has been provided for the wards of Kilrea, Garvagh and Dungiven over the same time period.
| Category | Coleraine | Dungiven* | Garvagh* | Kilrea* | Limavady | Portrush | Portstewart |
| Occupied for past 5 years | 441 | 111 | 133 | 160 | 201 | 108 | 80 |
| 63.5% | 65.3% | 79.2% | 78.4% | 69.8% | 80.0% | 73.4% | |
| Vacant for past 5 years | 112 | 28 | 20 | 25 | 28 | 13 | 9 |
| 16.1% | 16.5% | 11.9% | 12.3% | 9.7% | 9.6% | 8.3% | |
| Vacated after a period of occupancy [been vacated] | 85 | 23 | 10 | 11 | 34 | 5 | 15 |
| 12.2% | 13.5% | 6.0% | 5.4% | 11.8% | 3.7% | 13.8% | |
| Occupied after a period of vacancy [been occupied] | 57 | 8 | 5 | 8 | 25 | 9 | 5 |
| 8.2% | 4.7% | 3.0% | 3.9% | 8.7% | 6.7% | 4.6% | |
| Total number of Non-Domestic Properties in each town* | 695 | 170 | 168 | 204 | 288 | 135 | 109 |
| * Ward level data |
My Department annually reports on the number of children in care by placement type, including foster care, in the publication, ‘Children Social Care Statistics for Northern Ireland’. At 31 March 2021, the number of children in foster care (kinship and non-kinship) placements was 2,857.
Regretfully, my Department does not routinely collect data in regards to foster care constituency; therefore, to obtain this information would be at disproportionate cost.
It is assumed that the reference to children placed with foster carers on a ‘part-time basis’ is seeking information on the number of children who are placed with foster carers as a short break arrangement.
‘Short break’ refers to either a series of short-term pre-planned, or ad-hoc placements, where a child moves temporarily from their carer/parents in order to allow the child and/or the carer a period of respite. During a short break, the child becomes a child in care by virtue of the short break arrangement.
Children in short break arrangements are not included in official looked after children figures. As a child may avail of short break provision several times a year, my department publish figures of number of episodes of short breaks, not number of children. During the year ending 31 March 2021 there were 2,813 episodes of short breaks in Northern Ireland. This information is also reported annually in the publication, ‘Children Social Care Statistics for Northern Ireland’. The figures are not broken down by type of short break placement, whether in a family/foster care setting or residential care setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029405%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367228"}},{"id":"367227","reference":"AQW 29404/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any involvement she has had in cases of local councils’ allegations of non-compliance with pavement café licence conditions against business owners; and (ii) what advice she is giving to both businesses and councils in respect to (a) the rules governing these licences, and (b) the resolution of any disputes.","answerText":"My Department has not had any involvement in non-compliance cases raised by local Councils who are the lead authority in licensing pavement cafes. My Department was involved in providing guidance to DfC relating to requirements for ensuring that the safe operation of the footway is not compromised by the erection of a pavement café and are a consultee to the process. Where the erection of a pavement café causes difficulty for users of the footway and an appropriate licence isn’t in place, my officials will seek to have the matter addressed.","answerHtml":"My Department has not had any involvement in non-compliance cases raised by local Councils who are the lead authority in licensing pavement cafes. My Department was involved in providing guidance to DfC relating to requirements for ensuring that the safe operation of the footway is not compromised by the erection of a pavement café and are a consultee to the process. Where the erection of a pavement café causes difficulty for users of the footway and an appropriate licence isn’t in place, my officials will seek to have the matter addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029404%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367227"}},{"id":"367226","reference":"AQW 29403/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the current provision of mobile library services in East Londonderry; (ii) her assessment of the adequacy of this provision; and (iii) any plans she has to change the level of mobile library services in the constituency.","answerText":"There are two mobile library services currently operating with over 30 public stops.\n\nThe current provision is delivered taking account of the demand for, and use of, the service and in line with available resources.\n\nLibraries NI continue to review existing stops and may make changes to the locations where mobile library vehicles halt within a town or village.","answerHtml":"There are two mobile library services currently operating with over 30 public stops.
The current provision is delivered taking account of the demand for, and use of, the service and in line with available resources.
Libraries NI continue to review existing stops and may make changes to the locations where mobile library vehicles halt within a town or village.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029403%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367226"}},{"id":"367225","reference":"AQW 29402/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-08","answerBy":"2022-02-23","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) the organisations and clubs providing recognised education based programmes and services in East Londonderry that have or will benefit from funding related to A Fair Start: Final Report and Action Plan; (ii) the details of these projects; and (iii) the total funding provided to these organisations.","answerText":"East Londonderry is incorporated within the Northern Locality of the Education Authority Youth Service (EAYS) Horizons Programme.\n\nHorizons is a 2 year developmental leadership programme designed to help address underachievement in 21 areas across the province based on the EAYS Assessment of Relative Needs. The programme will target young people aged 15 and over. The Northern Locality of the EAYS Horizons Programme is being funded as part of Key Area 5 of the Fair Start Action Plan.\n\nThe Youth Service has 2 key members of staff who cover specifically the East Londonderry area which includes direct delivery of the Horizons Programme in Coleraine.\n\nInvestment in terms of monetary resources to date include £18k in staffing costs and £9k in programme costs.\n\nA significant element of the Fair Start Action Plan will see the development of a Reducing Educational Disadvantage (RED) programme. Budget permitting, going forward, the RED programme will support communities and schools working in partnership together to support children’s education and learning.","answerHtml":"East Londonderry is incorporated within the Northern Locality of the Education Authority Youth Service (EAYS) Horizons Programme.
Horizons is a 2 year developmental leadership programme designed to help address underachievement in 21 areas across the province based on the EAYS Assessment of Relative Needs. The programme will target young people aged 15 and over. The Northern Locality of the EAYS Horizons Programme is being funded as part of Key Area 5 of the Fair Start Action Plan.
The Youth Service has 2 key members of staff who cover specifically the East Londonderry area which includes direct delivery of the Horizons Programme in Coleraine.
Investment in terms of monetary resources to date include £18k in staffing costs and £9k in programme costs.
A significant element of the Fair Start Action Plan will see the development of a Reducing Educational Disadvantage (RED) programme. Budget permitting, going forward, the RED programme will support communities and schools working in partnership together to support children’s education and learning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029402%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367225"}},{"id":"367014","reference":"AQW 29325/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-07","answerBy":"2022-02-22","answered":"2022-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans or conversations he has had with relevant stakeholders to provide financial support or alterations to student loan options, for students trying to cope with increasing fuel and energy bills.","answerText":"My Department assists in tackling fuel poverty through setting energy efficiency policy that supports the reduction in household energy use and as a consequence household energy bills. However, the Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations which may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs.\n\nI do, however, recognise the impact rising fuel and energy bills is having on households across Northern Ireland, including students who live away from home during their studies. For the current 2021/22 academic year my Department continues to provide student support to eligible higher education students in the form of a means tested Maintenance Loan of up to £3,750 for students living at home and a non-repayable means tested Maintenance Grant of up to £3,475 to help with students’ living costs. Due to the uncertainty regarding my Department’s budgetary position and the lead-in times required to enact any changes, no alterations can be made to the maintenance package at this time. Indeed, if a Budget were to be agreed, the earliest any changes could potentially be made to the student support package as it currently stands would be academic year 2023/24 at the earliest.\n\nHowever, students who experience genuine financial hardship during the course of their studies can apply for additional support from the Student Support Funds. This support (often referred to as Hardship Funds) can provide financial help to students who face financial difficulties in meeting their living costs. My officials closely monitor the demand for this support, and as at the end of December less than half the hardship funding available to students had been drawn down. I would therefore encourage any student who is experiencing hardship to contact their local university’s student support service.","answerHtml":"My Department assists in tackling fuel poverty through setting energy efficiency policy that supports the reduction in household energy use and as a consequence household energy bills. However, the Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations which may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs.
I do, however, recognise the impact rising fuel and energy bills is having on households across Northern Ireland, including students who live away from home during their studies. For the current 2021/22 academic year my Department continues to provide student support to eligible higher education students in the form of a means tested Maintenance Loan of up to £3,750 for students living at home and a non-repayable means tested Maintenance Grant of up to £3,475 to help with students’ living costs. Due to the uncertainty regarding my Department’s budgetary position and the lead-in times required to enact any changes, no alterations can be made to the maintenance package at this time. Indeed, if a Budget were to be agreed, the earliest any changes could potentially be made to the student support package as it currently stands would be academic year 2023/24 at the earliest.
However, students who experience genuine financial hardship during the course of their studies can apply for additional support from the Student Support Funds. This support (often referred to as Hardship Funds) can provide financial help to students who face financial difficulties in meeting their living costs. My officials closely monitor the demand for this support, and as at the end of December less than half the hardship funding available to students had been drawn down. I would therefore encourage any student who is experiencing hardship to contact their local university’s student support service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029325%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367014","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367014"}},{"id":"367012","reference":"AQW 29323/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-07","answerBy":"2022-02-22","answered":"2022-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the steps being taken to make the Northern Ireland Civil Service and its projects less reliant on energy from fossil fuels.","answerText":"Since 2011, the Department of Finance has had consecutive three year energy efficiency plans and has achieved a reduction of over 15% in energy usage in that time, reducing fossil fuel use.\n\nMultiple projects have been undertaken across the NICS Office Estate to reduce energy consumption, including refurbishing boiler houses, replacing chiller equipment, installing voltage optimisation equipment and installing energy efficient LED lighting. As well as reducing the reliance of our office estate on energy from fossil fuels, we are also moving to reduce the size of the estate and minimise the need for staff to travel. Connect2 hubs will support hybrid working across the civil service by providing well-equipped remote working spaces in regional locations. These facilities will reduce the need for staff to commute long distances.\n\nContracts awarded by the Department of Finance to supply electricity to public bodies are 100% green supply. A procurement is also underway to contract for the supply of Bio Liquefied Petroleum gas to public bodies.\n\nThe Department provides advice to NICS Departments on new building projects. All new projects include a target of achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating under the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM). BREEAM is an international sustainability rating scheme for the built environment and provides a strong focus on sustainability in building design, construction and use. Since this requirement was introduced over 10 years ago, BREEAM has regularly updated its standards to drive forward further improvement.\n\nWhile BREEAM measures a broad spectrum of environmental, social and economic sustainability themes, one measure, ‘Ene01 - Reduction of energy use and carbon emissions’, specifically encourages the design of energy efficient buildings with energy performance above Building Regulation standards. BREEAM is therefore designed to focus on tackling energy and carbon emissions. This assists Departments to make significant reductions in carbon emissions at the asset level.","answerHtml":"Since 2011, the Department of Finance has had consecutive three year energy efficiency plans and has achieved a reduction of over 15% in energy usage in that time, reducing fossil fuel use.
Multiple projects have been undertaken across the NICS Office Estate to reduce energy consumption, including refurbishing boiler houses, replacing chiller equipment, installing voltage optimisation equipment and installing energy efficient LED lighting. As well as reducing the reliance of our office estate on energy from fossil fuels, we are also moving to reduce the size of the estate and minimise the need for staff to travel. Connect2 hubs will support hybrid working across the civil service by providing well-equipped remote working spaces in regional locations. These facilities will reduce the need for staff to commute long distances.
Contracts awarded by the Department of Finance to supply electricity to public bodies are 100% green supply. A procurement is also underway to contract for the supply of Bio Liquefied Petroleum gas to public bodies.
The Department provides advice to NICS Departments on new building projects. All new projects include a target of achieving an ‘Excellent’ rating under the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method (BREEAM). BREEAM is an international sustainability rating scheme for the built environment and provides a strong focus on sustainability in building design, construction and use. Since this requirement was introduced over 10 years ago, BREEAM has regularly updated its standards to drive forward further improvement.
While BREEAM measures a broad spectrum of environmental, social and economic sustainability themes, one measure, ‘Ene01 - Reduction of energy use and carbon emissions’, specifically encourages the design of energy efficient buildings with energy performance above Building Regulation standards. BREEAM is therefore designed to focus on tackling energy and carbon emissions. This assists Departments to make significant reductions in carbon emissions at the asset level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029323%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367012","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367012"}},{"id":"367011","reference":"AQW 29322/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-07","answerBy":"2022-02-22","answered":"2022-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the amount spent annually by (a) the Executive; (b) the Executive's departments; and (c) their arm's-length bodies, on electricity, gas, oil and other energy, broken down by department; and (ii) the predicted increase to this expenditure, in real terms, given rising energy costs.","answerText":"The annual amount spent in the 2020/ 2021 financial year by my Department on electricity, gas, oil and other energy from April 2020 to March 2021 is shown in the table below:\n\n2020-21 Financial Year\nElectricity\t£1,681,965\nOil\t£96,247\nGas\t£1,093,037\nBulk Propane Gas\t£2,888\nVehicle & equipment fuel\t£12,182\nTotal\t£2,886,319\n\nBased on actual costs for the first 3 quarters of the 2021/2022 financial year and an estimate calculated for the fourth quarter, the predicted increase, in real terms, given rising energy costs for 2021/2022 for my Department is shown in the table below:\n\n2021-22 Financial Year Predicted increase in costs*\nElectricity\t£320,612\nOil\t£24,674\nGas\t£1,132,631\nBulk Propane Gas\t£196\nVehicle & equipment fuel\t£1,782\nPredicted Increase Total\t£1,479,895\n\n*costs based on actual and estimated costs\n\nThe Department of Finance does not have responsibility for expenditure on energy made by other departments and their arm’s length bodies.","answerHtml":"The annual amount spent in the 2020/ 2021 financial year by my Department on electricity, gas, oil and other energy from April 2020 to March 2021 is shown in the table below:
| 2020-21 Financial Year | |
| Electricity | £1,681,965 |
| Oil | £96,247 |
| Gas | £1,093,037 |
| Bulk Propane Gas | £2,888 |
| Vehicle & equipment fuel | £12,182 |
| Total | £2,886,319 |
Based on actual costs for the first 3 quarters of the 2021/2022 financial year and an estimate calculated for the fourth quarter, the predicted increase, in real terms, given rising energy costs for 2021/2022 for my Department is shown in the table below:
| 2021-22 Financial Year Predicted increase in costs* | |
| Electricity | £320,612 |
| Oil | £24,674 |
| Gas | £1,132,631 |
| Bulk Propane Gas | £196 |
| Vehicle & equipment fuel | £1,782 |
| Predicted Increase Total | £1,479,895 |
*costs based on actual and estimated costs
The Department of Finance does not have responsibility for expenditure on energy made by other departments and their arm’s length bodies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029322%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367011","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367011"}},{"id":"367010","reference":"AQW 29321/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-07","answerBy":"2022-02-22","answered":"2022-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any work she has undertaken to explore the adoption of a 30 hours free childcare scheme for three and four year olds, similar to that in England.","answerText":"The New Decade, New Approach agreement, published in 2020, included a commitment to publish a Childcare Strategy and identify resources to deliver extended, affordable and high quality provision of early education and care initiatives for families with children aged 3-4.\n\nWork to develop an Executive Childcare Strategy is underway and this will identify costed options for additional childcare support. While consideration will be given to provision available in other jurisdictions, proposals will take account of the specific Northern Ireland context.\n\nAs part of any extended provision, it would be my aim to standardise the pre-school education session length, an action that was included in the recently published ‘Fair Start’ report, which stated that provision should be standardised to 4.5 hours per day including access to a free school meal for eligible pupils. A detailed scoping study will be required to accurately assess the costs of this and the implementation timeline.\n\nStakeholder engagement with MLAs, parents and providers on the Childcare Strategy as a whole, has already taken place through a Strategic Insight Programme in October to December 2021. Further engagement with key stakeholders will continue over the coming months. It is also envisaged that an independent Review of Childcare Services in NI will be commissioned to inform the development of the Strategy.\n\nUltimately, decisions on the coverage and content of the Childcare Strategy, including the number of hours provided will require Executive agreement and a commitment to provide the associated funding.","answerHtml":"The New Decade, New Approach agreement, published in 2020, included a commitment to publish a Childcare Strategy and identify resources to deliver extended, affordable and high quality provision of early education and care initiatives for families with children aged 3-4.
Work to develop an Executive Childcare Strategy is underway and this will identify costed options for additional childcare support. While consideration will be given to provision available in other jurisdictions, proposals will take account of the specific Northern Ireland context.
As part of any extended provision, it would be my aim to standardise the pre-school education session length, an action that was included in the recently published ‘Fair Start’ report, which stated that provision should be standardised to 4.5 hours per day including access to a free school meal for eligible pupils. A detailed scoping study will be required to accurately assess the costs of this and the implementation timeline.
Stakeholder engagement with MLAs, parents and providers on the Childcare Strategy as a whole, has already taken place through a Strategic Insight Programme in October to December 2021. Further engagement with key stakeholders will continue over the coming months. It is also envisaged that an independent Review of Childcare Services in NI will be commissioned to inform the development of the Strategy.
Ultimately, decisions on the coverage and content of the Childcare Strategy, including the number of hours provided will require Executive agreement and a commitment to provide the associated funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029321%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=367010","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=367010"}},{"id":"366787","reference":"AQW 29259/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-04","answerBy":"2022-02-21","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her assessment of the impact on schools as a result of rising energy costs.","answerText":"I recognise that energy price rises will result in increased utility bills for schools and I fully acknowledge the concerns expressed by our school leaders in this regard.\n\nFor this reason, I will be instructing the Education Authority to allocate almost £5m of additional funding to schools to mitigate against the combined impacts of rising energy costs coupled with increased ventilation in schools during the winter months. Schools will be notified of their individual allocations in due course.\n\nIn the meantime, any school facing financial difficulty should contact the EA, as funding authority for grant aided school, in the normal way.","answerHtml":"I recognise that energy price rises will result in increased utility bills for schools and I fully acknowledge the concerns expressed by our school leaders in this regard.
For this reason, I will be instructing the Education Authority to allocate almost £5m of additional funding to schools to mitigate against the combined impacts of rising energy costs coupled with increased ventilation in schools during the winter months. Schools will be notified of their individual allocations in due course.
In the meantime, any school facing financial difficulty should contact the EA, as funding authority for grant aided school, in the normal way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029259%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366787"}},{"id":"366785","reference":"AQW 29257/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-04","answerBy":"2022-02-21","answered":"2022-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what engagement he has had with further and higher education staff and students in relation to the upcoming strike action.","answerText":"This proposed strike action does not include Northern Ireland’s Further Education colleges.\n\nWhilst the Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the Higher Education sector in Northern Ireland, universities are autonomous institutions and are responsible for their own policies and procedures, including those related to pay, workload and superannuation. Therefore, pay and pensions, across the UK, are a matter for the Universities, as employers, and the staff trade unions.\n\nHowever, I am disappointed that the University and College Union has decided there is a need to take further industrial action and I hope that any disruption can be kept to an absolute minimum. This is particularly true given the challenges our students have experienced in recent times. While I respect the right of staff to take part in mandated industrial action, and recognise that these decisions are not taken lightly, I would ask that all parties work towards a resolution so that students, across the UK, can receive the education and experience they deserve.","answerHtml":"This proposed strike action does not include Northern Ireland’s Further Education colleges.
Whilst the Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the Higher Education sector in Northern Ireland, universities are autonomous institutions and are responsible for their own policies and procedures, including those related to pay, workload and superannuation. Therefore, pay and pensions, across the UK, are a matter for the Universities, as employers, and the staff trade unions.
However, I am disappointed that the University and College Union has decided there is a need to take further industrial action and I hope that any disruption can be kept to an absolute minimum. This is particularly true given the challenges our students have experienced in recent times. While I respect the right of staff to take part in mandated industrial action, and recognise that these decisions are not taken lightly, I would ask that all parties work towards a resolution so that students, across the UK, can receive the education and experience they deserve.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029257%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366785"}},{"id":"366783","reference":"AQW 29255/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-04","answerBy":"2022-02-21","answered":"2022-02-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the postcodes of the additional 8,500 premises recently added to Project Stratum.","answerText":"I can confirm that the additional 8,469 premises now included in Project Stratum, will be from postcode areas identified as eligible during the Project Stratum Open Market Review (OMR) and State aid Public Consultation. Therefore, as no additional postcodes will be included, my Department will not be publishing an updated list.\n\nHowever, my Department can confirm information relating to the 8,469 additional premises, including deployment date, has been updated on the www.hyperfastni.com website. The contractor, Fibrus Networks, has also written to all of the premises which are being added to inform them of their inclusion. Please note premises may benefit prior to the date provided on the Hyperfast NI website, so my Department recommends citizens check the website regularly.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the additional 8,469 premises now included in Project Stratum, will be from postcode areas identified as eligible during the Project Stratum Open Market Review (OMR) and State aid Public Consultation. Therefore, as no additional postcodes will be included, my Department will not be publishing an updated list.
However, my Department can confirm information relating to the 8,469 additional premises, including deployment date, has been updated on the www.hyperfastni.com website. The contractor, Fibrus Networks, has also written to all of the premises which are being added to inform them of their inclusion. Please note premises may benefit prior to the date provided on the Hyperfast NI website, so my Department recommends citizens check the website regularly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029255%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366783"}},{"id":"366468","reference":"AQW 29097/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-02","answerBy":"2022-02-17","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the powers of independent car park enforcement companies to (i) fine the (a) owners; and (b) drivers of cars believed to have exceeded the stated car park usage time in private car parks; and (ii) access data about the owners of cars believed to have exceeded the stated car park usage time in private car parks.","answerText":"My Department has no responsibility for the operation or management of private car parks nor the enforcement companies that operate within them. As far as I am able to determine there is no legislation which governs these facilities here.\n\nI am advised that the British Parking Association (BPA) maintains an Approved Operator Scheme (AOS). Members of this scheme must adhere to the BPA AOS Code of Practice for the control and enforcement of parking on private land and unregulated public car parks. The Code of Practice can be viewed at: https://www.britishparking.co.uk/write/Documents/AOS/AOS_Code_of_Practice_January_2020_v8(2).pdf\n\nI also understand that the Consumer Protection Team of the Northern Ireland Consumer Council offers advice and assistance on matters relating to private car parks.","answerHtml":"My Department has no responsibility for the operation or management of private car parks nor the enforcement companies that operate within them. As far as I am able to determine there is no legislation which governs these facilities here.
I am advised that the British Parking Association (BPA) maintains an Approved Operator Scheme (AOS). Members of this scheme must adhere to the BPA AOS Code of Practice for the control and enforcement of parking on private land and unregulated public car parks. The Code of Practice can be viewed at: https://www.britishparking.co.uk/write/Documents/AOS/AOS_Code_of_Practice_January_2020_v8(2).pdf
I also understand that the Consumer Protection Team of the Northern Ireland Consumer Council offers advice and assistance on matters relating to private car parks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029097%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366468","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366468"}},{"id":"366467","reference":"AQW 29096/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-02","answerBy":"2022-02-17","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has received and approved all pay remits from PSNI staff for 2021/22, including requests for incremental pay progression.","answerText":"For the 2021-22 financial year, there are currently nine PSNI pay remits which require approval by my Department.\n\nAs of 8 February 2022, only one of these has been submitted to my Department for approval, this being the PSNI 2021-22 Federated and Superintending. This pay remit is currently being considered by my officials.\n\nOf the remaining eight pay remits, it is my understanding that these pay remits are still being developed by the PSNI and the Policing Board.","answerHtml":"For the 2021-22 financial year, there are currently nine PSNI pay remits which require approval by my Department.
As of 8 February 2022, only one of these has been submitted to my Department for approval, this being the PSNI 2021-22 Federated and Superintending. This pay remit is currently being considered by my officials.
Of the remaining eight pay remits, it is my understanding that these pay remits are still being developed by the PSNI and the Policing Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029096%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366467","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366467"}},{"id":"366466","reference":"AQW 29095/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-02","answerBy":"2022-02-17","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the process by which independent health and social care workers, who worked during the qualifying period for the £500 recognition payment, can claim and access the payment if they are no longer employed by the same employer as during the qualifying period; and (ii) the redress for these workers if their previous employer does not respond to them.","answerText":"On 28 January 2022 a letter was issued to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA, advising of Phase 2 of the Recognition Payment Process and inviting them to identify their qualifying former employees. The process being adopted is similar to the one used under Phase 1. The letter included details of eligibility criteria and how the employer should claim on behalf of their former staff.\n\nOnce a claim has been verified by the Business Services Organisation (BSO), payments will be made to each provider in advance of them making payment to their former staff.\n\nWhere staff worked for an independent care provider during the qualifying period, whether for the full qualifying period or in part, it is that provider’s responsibility to ensure a claim is submitted and they make subsequent arrangements to pass this payment on to the relevant individual.\n\nIn recognition of the administrative process involved in identifying and providing former staff details, a fee of £12.60 per individual is available to each provider.\n\nEmployers are required to complete and submit claims and relevant documentation, no later than 5th March 2022. BSO will expedite payments as quickly as possible following receipt of a properly constituted and verified claim however, due to other pressures within BSO relating to the end of the financial year, there may be slight delays in turnaround times. It is therefore extremely important that the former employer provides the correct information and documentation to support the efficient payment process. Likewise it is expected that the former employer will make arrangements to pay staff as soon as possible after the payment is received from BSO.\n\nWhere we are made aware of employers who are not engaging, officials will make direct contact with these providers and potentially follow this up with formal correspondence from the Department if considered appropriate.\n\nUnfortunately we have little by way of enforcement options and we may ultimately have to advise former independent care staff to seek redress through the Labour Relations Agency. It is however hoped that there would be sufficient pressure applied through Departmental engagement to persuade any reluctant employer to engage.\n\nI remain committed to ensuring that all possible actions are taken and options explored to allow independent care staff who qualify under the eligibility criteria to receive the recognition payment as soon as practicable.","answerHtml":"On 28 January 2022 a letter was issued to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA, advising of Phase 2 of the Recognition Payment Process and inviting them to identify their qualifying former employees. The process being adopted is similar to the one used under Phase 1. The letter included details of eligibility criteria and how the employer should claim on behalf of their former staff.
Once a claim has been verified by the Business Services Organisation (BSO), payments will be made to each provider in advance of them making payment to their former staff.
Where staff worked for an independent care provider during the qualifying period, whether for the full qualifying period or in part, it is that provider’s responsibility to ensure a claim is submitted and they make subsequent arrangements to pass this payment on to the relevant individual.
In recognition of the administrative process involved in identifying and providing former staff details, a fee of £12.60 per individual is available to each provider.
Employers are required to complete and submit claims and relevant documentation, no later than 5th March 2022. BSO will expedite payments as quickly as possible following receipt of a properly constituted and verified claim however, due to other pressures within BSO relating to the end of the financial year, there may be slight delays in turnaround times. It is therefore extremely important that the former employer provides the correct information and documentation to support the efficient payment process. Likewise it is expected that the former employer will make arrangements to pay staff as soon as possible after the payment is received from BSO.
Where we are made aware of employers who are not engaging, officials will make direct contact with these providers and potentially follow this up with formal correspondence from the Department if considered appropriate.
Unfortunately we have little by way of enforcement options and we may ultimately have to advise former independent care staff to seek redress through the Labour Relations Agency. It is however hoped that there would be sufficient pressure applied through Departmental engagement to persuade any reluctant employer to engage.
I remain committed to ensuring that all possible actions are taken and options explored to allow independent care staff who qualify under the eligibility criteria to receive the recognition payment as soon as practicable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029095%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366466","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366466"}},{"id":"366465","reference":"AQW 29094/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-02","answerBy":"2022-02-17","answered":"2022-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans she has to create regulatory powers governing the use of jet skis.","answerText":"My Departments regulatory powers do not extend to jet skis as marine safety is a reserved matter for the British Government. The Department of Transport recently held a consultation on proposals to strengthen enforcement of the dangerous use of recreational and personal watercraft within coastal waters. The proposed changes to the Merchant Shipping Order will therefore apply to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.\n\nLocal authorities, who have responsibility for managing a particular stretch of water or coastline, under the Pollution Control and Local Government (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (as amended), have powers to make byelaws to ensure the safety of all who wish to use these areas.","answerHtml":"My Departments regulatory powers do not extend to jet skis as marine safety is a reserved matter for the British Government. The Department of Transport recently held a consultation on proposals to strengthen enforcement of the dangerous use of recreational and personal watercraft within coastal waters. The proposed changes to the Merchant Shipping Order will therefore apply to England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
Local authorities, who have responsibility for managing a particular stretch of water or coastline, under the Pollution Control and Local Government (Northern Ireland) Order 1978 (as amended), have powers to make byelaws to ensure the safety of all who wish to use these areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029094%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366465","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366465"}},{"id":"366228","reference":"AQW 29036/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-01","answerBy":"2022-02-16","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what steps she has taken to highlight the Help Musicians’ Coronavirus Financial Hardship Fund 2022 to local musicians and to encourage them to apply; and (ii) what considerations she has given to creating a similar, Executive-funded, hardship scheme.","answerText":"I launched the £3million Creative Individuals Recovery Programme in September 2021. It provided awards of up to £2,000 to help creative freelance and self-employed individuals and this was open to musicians.\n\nThis followed on from nearly £8million in additional Covid support funding which I provided to 1,600 individual creative people, including musicians, in 2020/2021 through schemes run by Arts Council, the Heritage Fund, Sign Language Partnership and the University of Atypical.\n\nI am pleased that other funders are providing additional support, which they should promote accordingly.","answerHtml":"I launched the £3million Creative Individuals Recovery Programme in September 2021. It provided awards of up to £2,000 to help creative freelance and self-employed individuals and this was open to musicians.
This followed on from nearly £8million in additional Covid support funding which I provided to 1,600 individual creative people, including musicians, in 2020/2021 through schemes run by Arts Council, the Heritage Fund, Sign Language Partnership and the University of Atypical.
I am pleased that other funders are providing additional support, which they should promote accordingly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029036%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366228"}},{"id":"366227","reference":"AQW 29035/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-01","answerBy":"2022-02-16","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether people in receipt of legacy benefits, such as Tax Credits and Housing Benefit, who have not switched to Universal Credit will be eligible for the £200 Emergency Fuel Grant; and (ii) what steps people in these circumstances need to take to ensure they receive the payment.","answerText":"I can confirm that individuals will be eligible for a payment if, during the qualifying week (Monday 13th December to Sunday 19th December 2021 inclusive), they were in receipt of one or more of the following benefits:\n\n• Pension Credit;\n\n• Universal Credit;\n\n• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance;\n\n• Income-based Jobseekers Allowance;\n\n• Income Support.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that individuals will be eligible for a payment if, during the qualifying week (Monday 13th December to Sunday 19th December 2021 inclusive), they were in receipt of one or more of the following benefits:
• Pension Credit;
• Universal Credit;
• Income-related Employment and Support Allowance;
• Income-based Jobseekers Allowance;
• Income Support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029035%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366227"}},{"id":"366226","reference":"AQW 29034/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-01","answerBy":"2022-02-16","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when face to face Personal Independence Payment appointments will resume.","answerText":"Face-to-face assessments for Personal Independence Payment resumed on 1 July 2021. Currently this is only for those people who are unable to take part in a telephone assessment due to their condition, for example people with hearing or speech impairments, people who do not have a telephone or those who experience technical difficulties with calls. The Department will continue to monitor its policy in this area as Covid-19 restrictions change.","answerHtml":"Face-to-face assessments for Personal Independence Payment resumed on 1 July 2021. Currently this is only for those people who are unable to take part in a telephone assessment due to their condition, for example people with hearing or speech impairments, people who do not have a telephone or those who experience technical difficulties with calls. The Department will continue to monitor its policy in this area as Covid-19 restrictions change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029034%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366226"}},{"id":"366225","reference":"AQW 29033/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-02-01","answerBy":"2022-02-16","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the current waiting times for the processing of, and decision on, a Personal Independence Payment (i) initial application; (ii) mandatory reconsideration; and (iii) appeal.","answerText":"The most recent Personal Independence Payment (PIP) statistics published, which cover the period from June 2016 up to the end of August 2021, provide clearance times for PIP initial claims and can be found at;\n\nhttps://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/personal-independence-payment-statistics-august-2021","answerHtml":"The most recent Personal Independence Payment (PIP) statistics published, which cover the period from June 2016 up to the end of August 2021, provide clearance times for PIP initial claims and can be found at;
https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/personal-independence-payment-statistics-august-2021
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2029033%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366225"}},{"id":"365964","reference":"AQW 28962/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-31","answerBy":"2022-02-15","answered":"2022-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether she plans to include community transport schemes in her proposed financial assistance scheme for private bus and coach operators; and (ii) for her assessment of how community transport schemes have supported other sectors, such as health and social care and community groups, during the pandemic.","answerText":"The rationale, and funding, for the financial assistance scheme for private bus and coach operators has received the support of the Executive and I have also received a determination and designation from the First Minister and Deputy First Ministers for the implementation of the scheme. The Scheme does not include plans for community transport schemes. However additional Covid Relief resource grant funding has been made available to provide financial assistance to community transport providers, funded by my Department, who have been negatively affected by the pandemic and will incur a financial operating deficit in the financial year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022. The majority of the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) will receive this Covid Relief financial support to enable them to continue to deliver the much valued and needed Dial- a-Lift services.\n\nCovid has presented a number of unprecedented challenges and I appreciate the valuable services the RCTPs and Disability Action (DA), which delivers the Disability Action Transport Service (DATS), have continued to deliver during these difficult times. Transport services have been offered throughout the pandemic in line with government Covid restrictions. In order to provide further support and flexibility during the pandemic, and to utilise spare capacity freed up by a reduction in demand for transport services, I allowed the community transport operators to provide transitioned services. This enabled the community transport providers to provide further support to their local communities. Working with local community groups the transport providers determined need and provided services such as checking in on members by phone, delivery of shopping, prescriptions, personal protective equipment and food boxes. Deliveries were also undertaken for Tiny Life. When the vaccination programmes commenced the RCTPs and DA provided transport to vaccinations, including outside of their operational area. These services were also extended to non-members who were vulnerable and/or were required to shield. In addition both the RCTPs and DATS provide transport for health related appointments, as resources permit. They have absorbed the cost of this within their current funding, whilst continuing to deliver many other valuable services, and I know they have provided invaluable assistance to the NI Ambulance Service.\n\nThe table below provides statistical information on transitioned services delivered up to December 2021.\n\nCommunity Transport Transitioned Services (DAL & DATS )\nYear\tTransitioned Services Trips*\tOutreach t/calls to members\tDfC food parcels**delivered to individual homes\tTransport to Vaccinations\n***\n2020/2021\t131,334\t40,218\t31,567\t986\n2021/2022\n(9 months)\t150,820\t8,099\tn/a\t1,725\n\n*Includes both passenger and non-passenger transport\n\n**DfC food parcel ended August 2020\n\n***These figures are also included in the transitioned services\n\nA report was completed, on behalf of my Department, by the Community Transport Association which looked at the services delivered and the positive impact on local communities. It can be accessed via this link. Report: Serving Northern Ireland – Community Transport During Coronavirus | Community Transport Association (ctauk.org).","answerHtml":"The rationale, and funding, for the financial assistance scheme for private bus and coach operators has received the support of the Executive and I have also received a determination and designation from the First Minister and Deputy First Ministers for the implementation of the scheme. The Scheme does not include plans for community transport schemes. However additional Covid Relief resource grant funding has been made available to provide financial assistance to community transport providers, funded by my Department, who have been negatively affected by the pandemic and will incur a financial operating deficit in the financial year 1 April 2021 to 31 March 2022. The majority of the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) will receive this Covid Relief financial support to enable them to continue to deliver the much valued and needed Dial- a-Lift services.
Covid has presented a number of unprecedented challenges and I appreciate the valuable services the RCTPs and Disability Action (DA), which delivers the Disability Action Transport Service (DATS), have continued to deliver during these difficult times. Transport services have been offered throughout the pandemic in line with government Covid restrictions. In order to provide further support and flexibility during the pandemic, and to utilise spare capacity freed up by a reduction in demand for transport services, I allowed the community transport operators to provide transitioned services. This enabled the community transport providers to provide further support to their local communities. Working with local community groups the transport providers determined need and provided services such as checking in on members by phone, delivery of shopping, prescriptions, personal protective equipment and food boxes. Deliveries were also undertaken for Tiny Life. When the vaccination programmes commenced the RCTPs and DA provided transport to vaccinations, including outside of their operational area. These services were also extended to non-members who were vulnerable and/or were required to shield. In addition both the RCTPs and DATS provide transport for health related appointments, as resources permit. They have absorbed the cost of this within their current funding, whilst continuing to deliver many other valuable services, and I know they have provided invaluable assistance to the NI Ambulance Service.
The table below provides statistical information on transitioned services delivered up to December 2021.
| Community Transport Transitioned Services (DAL & DATS ) | ||||
| Year | Transitioned Services Trips* | Outreach t/calls to members | DfC food parcels**delivered to individual homes | Transport to Vaccinations *** |
| 2020/2021 | 131,334 | 40,218 | 31,567 | 986 |
| 2021/2022 (9 months) | 150,820 | 8,099 | n/a | 1,725 |
*Includes both passenger and non-passenger transport
**DfC food parcel ended August 2020
***These figures are also included in the transitioned services
A report was completed, on behalf of my Department, by the Community Transport Association which looked at the services delivered and the positive impact on local communities. It can be accessed via this link. Report: Serving Northern Ireland – Community Transport During Coronavirus | Community Transport Association (ctauk.org).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028962%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365964"}},{"id":"365962","reference":"AQW 28960/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-31","answerBy":"2022-02-15","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 27715/17-22, to detail (i) the number of registered childminders at the end of each of the last five years; and (ii) the number of childcare places this equates to.","answerText":"The numbers of registered childminders and the associated childcare places for each of the past five years are as follows:\n\nSector\tMar-17\tMar-18\tMar-19\tMar-20\tMar-21\nChildminder\t3098\t2871\t2714\t2613\t2488\nPlaces\t17,711\t16,761\t15,979\t15,563\t14,710\n\nThis information is publically available at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/childrens-social-care-statistics-northern-ireland-202021.","answerHtml":"The numbers of registered childminders and the associated childcare places for each of the past five years are as follows:
| Sector | Mar-17 | Mar-18 | Mar-19 | Mar-20 | Mar-21 |
| Childminder | 3098 | 2871 | 2714 | 2613 | 2488 |
| Places | 17,711 | 16,761 | 15,979 | 15,563 | 14,710 |
This information is publically available at https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/childrens-social-care-statistics-northern-ireland-202021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028960%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365962"}},{"id":"365961","reference":"AQW 28959/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-31","answerBy":"2022-02-15","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the number of jobseekers, trainees, apprentices and other individuals that have taken part in employment and skills programmes, funded in whole or part by his Department, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"My Department funds a wide range of employment and skills programmes across many different public, private and third sector settings. Because not all of the related information is held centrally, it would not be possible to provide the information requested without incurring disproportionate costs.\n\nMy Department publishes official statistics on higher education, further education, apprenticeships and training participation at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/topics/statistics-and-economic-research/higher-and-further-education-and-training-statistics and https://www.ninis2.nisra.gov.uk/public/Home.aspx.","answerHtml":"My Department funds a wide range of employment and skills programmes across many different public, private and third sector settings. Because not all of the related information is held centrally, it would not be possible to provide the information requested without incurring disproportionate costs.
My Department publishes official statistics on higher education, further education, apprenticeships and training participation at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/topics/statistics-and-economic-research/higher-and-further-education-and-training-statistics and https://www.ninis2.nisra.gov.uk/public/Home.aspx.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028959%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365961"}},{"id":"365753","reference":"AQW 28914/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-28","answerBy":"2022-02-14","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) how her Department is addressing telecommunications scams which target older people; and (ii) the external organisations and arms-length bodies her Department is working with in relation to these scams.","answerText":"My Department works to tackle the issue of scams through its membership of the ScamwiseNI Partnership: since 2016 the partnership has provided valuable information about scams and crucial advice helping to keep the public informed, aware and vigilant.\n\nThe Partnership encourages people to discuss the topic of scams with friends and families, particularly older family members, to help protect and support each other against scams. Prevention, through awareness, is a vital tool in combating scammers and, working at a multi-partner level, the partnership aims to raise awareness of all types of scams and get helpful information out to the public on how to prevent them.\n\nThe Partnership is chaired by the PSNI and involves over 45 partners working collaboratively to raise awareness of scams. Partners representing older people’s needs include the Commissioner for Older People, Age NI and Hourglass. Other partners include NI Policing Board, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), Trading Standards NI, the Consumer Council, the Cyber Security Centre, Ofcom, the Communications Regulator, representatives from the retail and banking sector including Royal Mail and the Post Office, libraries and a number of faith and youth groups.\n\nMy Department also supports work at a local level through PCSPs across Northern Ireland who work with communities to reduce crime and the fear of crime amongst the elderly and vulnerable. PCSPs have developed a range of crime prevention interventions in response to identified community need and emerging trends in their own areas. Examples include using social media, the SaferU App and Facebook to spread the scamaware message: scam awareness presentations and videos; engagement with local groups such as Agewell, Causeway Age Concern and AGENDA (Age North Down & Ards); distribution of information packs and Neighbourhood Watch newsletters; scam alerts; home security visits; advice shared with Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators and providing online training for ‘Scambassadors’ (people from local areas who are known to vulnerable members of the community in everyday life such as library staff, elected representatives, PCSP members, church groups and GPs).","answerHtml":"My Department works to tackle the issue of scams through its membership of the ScamwiseNI Partnership: since 2016 the partnership has provided valuable information about scams and crucial advice helping to keep the public informed, aware and vigilant.
The Partnership encourages people to discuss the topic of scams with friends and families, particularly older family members, to help protect and support each other against scams. Prevention, through awareness, is a vital tool in combating scammers and, working at a multi-partner level, the partnership aims to raise awareness of all types of scams and get helpful information out to the public on how to prevent them.
The Partnership is chaired by the PSNI and involves over 45 partners working collaboratively to raise awareness of scams. Partners representing older people’s needs include the Commissioner for Older People, Age NI and Hourglass. Other partners include NI Policing Board, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs), Trading Standards NI, the Consumer Council, the Cyber Security Centre, Ofcom, the Communications Regulator, representatives from the retail and banking sector including Royal Mail and the Post Office, libraries and a number of faith and youth groups.
My Department also supports work at a local level through PCSPs across Northern Ireland who work with communities to reduce crime and the fear of crime amongst the elderly and vulnerable. PCSPs have developed a range of crime prevention interventions in response to identified community need and emerging trends in their own areas. Examples include using social media, the SaferU App and Facebook to spread the scamaware message: scam awareness presentations and videos; engagement with local groups such as Agewell, Causeway Age Concern and AGENDA (Age North Down & Ards); distribution of information packs and Neighbourhood Watch newsletters; scam alerts; home security visits; advice shared with Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinators and providing online training for ‘Scambassadors’ (people from local areas who are known to vulnerable members of the community in everyday life such as library staff, elected representatives, PCSP members, church groups and GPs).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028914%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365753"}},{"id":"365752","reference":"AQW 28913/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-28","answerBy":"2022-02-14","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail what steps she is taking to ensure that middle-income households not claiming benefits are able to access affordable legal counsel, such as Legal Aid.","answerText":"The legal aid budget is finite and it is important that it is targeted at those in greatest need. Criminal legal aid is granted by the Courts and this is subject to a statutory test which considers the means of the person before the Court and whether it is in the interest of justice that the person should have legal aid. There is no set limit above which legal aid may not be granted.\n\nFor most civil cases, the grant of legal aid is subject to a means test and a merits test to ensure legal aid is available for the most deserving cases and for those who cannot afford to pay for their legal needs.\n\nSome matters have such serious consequences however that legal aid can be granted to all, regardless of the individual’s financial resources. This applies, for example, to representation for parents of children in applications for a Care Order or to free their child for adoption. This is also the case where liberty is at issue, for example for applications before the Review Tribunal under the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and also for advice and assistance to those who have been arrested, are in a police station and need a lawyer.\n\nFor these matters which are specifically exempted in the applicable legislation, anyone, regardless of means can get legal aid.\n\nIn other areas legal aid may be granted to those who would normally fall outside the financial eligibility thresholds. For example, there is a discretionary waiver to make legal aid available for non-molestation orders for those who fall outside the financial limit for legal aid, and I intend soon, subject to Department of Finance approval, to introduce a waiver for victims of domestic abuse to respond to Article 8 Children Order proceedings brought by their abuser. While those who benefit under the waiver may still have to make a contribution this should prove much less costly than privately funding the proceedings.\n\nFor other cases, for example claims for damages, in order to ensure scarce resources are utilised by those who need it most, a means test applies. Some people will not be able to access legal aid due to their levels of disposable income or capital. Subject to those matters mentioned already, those with a weekly disposable income of £234 or a disposable capital of £3000 will not be eligible for representation in the lower courts and the disposable income limits in the higher courts are £10,955 in personal injury cases/ £9,937 in other cases and the disposal capital limits are £8,650 in personal injury cases and £6,750 in other cases. The applicable legislation sets out what things may be deducted from earnings to arrive at the disposable figures.\n\nIt should be noted that the Director of Legal Aid Casework and his staff can exercise discretion to disregard income and capital in applications for legal aid in the higher courts.","answerHtml":"The legal aid budget is finite and it is important that it is targeted at those in greatest need. Criminal legal aid is granted by the Courts and this is subject to a statutory test which considers the means of the person before the Court and whether it is in the interest of justice that the person should have legal aid. There is no set limit above which legal aid may not be granted.
For most civil cases, the grant of legal aid is subject to a means test and a merits test to ensure legal aid is available for the most deserving cases and for those who cannot afford to pay for their legal needs.
Some matters have such serious consequences however that legal aid can be granted to all, regardless of the individual’s financial resources. This applies, for example, to representation for parents of children in applications for a Care Order or to free their child for adoption. This is also the case where liberty is at issue, for example for applications before the Review Tribunal under the Mental Health (Northern Ireland) Order 1986 and also for advice and assistance to those who have been arrested, are in a police station and need a lawyer.
For these matters which are specifically exempted in the applicable legislation, anyone, regardless of means can get legal aid.
In other areas legal aid may be granted to those who would normally fall outside the financial eligibility thresholds. For example, there is a discretionary waiver to make legal aid available for non-molestation orders for those who fall outside the financial limit for legal aid, and I intend soon, subject to Department of Finance approval, to introduce a waiver for victims of domestic abuse to respond to Article 8 Children Order proceedings brought by their abuser. While those who benefit under the waiver may still have to make a contribution this should prove much less costly than privately funding the proceedings.
For other cases, for example claims for damages, in order to ensure scarce resources are utilised by those who need it most, a means test applies. Some people will not be able to access legal aid due to their levels of disposable income or capital. Subject to those matters mentioned already, those with a weekly disposable income of £234 or a disposable capital of £3000 will not be eligible for representation in the lower courts and the disposable income limits in the higher courts are £10,955 in personal injury cases/ £9,937 in other cases and the disposal capital limits are £8,650 in personal injury cases and £6,750 in other cases. The applicable legislation sets out what things may be deducted from earnings to arrive at the disposable figures.
It should be noted that the Director of Legal Aid Casework and his staff can exercise discretion to disregard income and capital in applications for legal aid in the higher courts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028913%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365752"}},{"id":"365751","reference":"AQW 28912/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-28","answerBy":"2022-02-14","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of how successful the Executive Action Plan for Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime has been in East Londonderry.","answerText":"As you are aware, the Programme to Tackle Paramilitary Activity, Criminality, and Organised Crime is a cross Executive initiative, co-ordinated by a Programme Team within my Department. It is delivering a wide range of initiatives aimed at ensuring that all communities are safer, and more resilient to paramilitarism, criminality and coercive control.\n\nThe East Londonderry Constituency has not been an area of specific focus for the Programme. However, the Paramilitary Crime Task Force has been tackling the criminal activities of paramilitary groups, such as the North Antrim UDA, and has seen significant operational successes. In addition, there are a number of initiatives, such as the Aspire project, which operate on a Northern Ireland wide basis, and which people in the constituency can access. Projects such as this have been shown to play a vital role in supporting those who are vulnerable to paramilitary activity and harm.\n\nPhase two of the Programme is continuing to deliver a diverse range of interventions. I am impressed by the strength of the collaborative effort being fostered under the Programme, which sees government and statutory agencies working together with an extensive range of community and voluntary sector partners throughout Northern Ireland. This builds on work to date and ensures that we take a long term, holistic approach to addressing the challenges associated with paramilitarism and organised crime.","answerHtml":"As you are aware, the Programme to Tackle Paramilitary Activity, Criminality, and Organised Crime is a cross Executive initiative, co-ordinated by a Programme Team within my Department. It is delivering a wide range of initiatives aimed at ensuring that all communities are safer, and more resilient to paramilitarism, criminality and coercive control.
The East Londonderry Constituency has not been an area of specific focus for the Programme. However, the Paramilitary Crime Task Force has been tackling the criminal activities of paramilitary groups, such as the North Antrim UDA, and has seen significant operational successes. In addition, there are a number of initiatives, such as the Aspire project, which operate on a Northern Ireland wide basis, and which people in the constituency can access. Projects such as this have been shown to play a vital role in supporting those who are vulnerable to paramilitary activity and harm.
Phase two of the Programme is continuing to deliver a diverse range of interventions. I am impressed by the strength of the collaborative effort being fostered under the Programme, which sees government and statutory agencies working together with an extensive range of community and voluntary sector partners throughout Northern Ireland. This builds on work to date and ensures that we take a long term, holistic approach to addressing the challenges associated with paramilitarism and organised crime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028912%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365751"}},{"id":"365750","reference":"AQW 28911/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-28","answerBy":"2022-02-14","answered":"2022-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any projects or trail development her Department has been involved in during the current mandate that facilitates and promotes non-competitive, leisurely horse-riding.","answerText":"My Department has no remit to promote and create trails that facilitate and promote non-competitive, leisurely horse-riding. Active travel is within my Department’s remit, the aim of which is to reduce the number of non-active journeys and so to deliver a modal shift from motorised transport. ‘Exercise – Explore – Enjoy: a Strategic Plan for Greenways’ was published by my Department in November 2016. The strategy has a particular focus on active travel and provides a framework to assist Councils and other bodies to develop their own local schemes as part of a greenway network for the entire region. As equestrian activity is not generally considered to be active travel, it was not included in the Strategic Plan.\n\nIn respect of the small number of greenways within its ownership, my Department has taken the approach that horses should not be permitted on greenways due to the size and unpredictability of such large animals.\n\nDuring this mandate I have provided Councils with capital funding to assist them in the development of their greenway projects on the basis that they contribute to delivering active travel. I am not aware that any of the projects funded have the additional aim of facilitating and promoting non-competitive, leisurely horse-riding. As greenway development forward is taken, it will be the responsibility of each Council to decide whether horses should be permitted on its greenways.","answerHtml":"My Department has no remit to promote and create trails that facilitate and promote non-competitive, leisurely horse-riding. Active travel is within my Department’s remit, the aim of which is to reduce the number of non-active journeys and so to deliver a modal shift from motorised transport. ‘Exercise – Explore – Enjoy: a Strategic Plan for Greenways’ was published by my Department in November 2016. The strategy has a particular focus on active travel and provides a framework to assist Councils and other bodies to develop their own local schemes as part of a greenway network for the entire region. As equestrian activity is not generally considered to be active travel, it was not included in the Strategic Plan.
In respect of the small number of greenways within its ownership, my Department has taken the approach that horses should not be permitted on greenways due to the size and unpredictability of such large animals.
During this mandate I have provided Councils with capital funding to assist them in the development of their greenway projects on the basis that they contribute to delivering active travel. I am not aware that any of the projects funded have the additional aim of facilitating and promoting non-competitive, leisurely horse-riding. As greenway development forward is taken, it will be the responsibility of each Council to decide whether horses should be permitted on its greenways.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028911%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365750"}},{"id":"365749","reference":"AQW 28910/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-28","answerBy":"2022-02-14","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the extent to which non-competitive horse riding as a leisure activity has been supported by her Department during the current mandate; (ii) to outline any forthcoming projects or schemes in which her Department will be involved; and (iii) for her assessment of the social and physical benefits of leisurely, non-competitive horse riding for children and young people.","answerText":"During my mandate funding totalling £45,038 has been provided to support organisations who provide opportunities for people of all abilities to experience horse riding in a non-competitive and competitive setting. That funding has included awards to a range of riding for the disabled facilities including for example the Riding for the Disabled Association (Coleraine & District Group) Ltd and the NI Polo Club. In addition, 13 Covid Safe Sports Packs with a total value of £4,875 have been provided to this sector.\n\nIn terms of the current financial support available, Sport NI has a small grants programme called Project Re-Boot: Activate (awards up to £5k) which is open for applications from eligible organisations, including community/voluntary organisations that deliver or enable sport and/or physical recreation as its primary activity. Further information can be found at: SPORT NI | Project Re-Boot: Activate.\n\nThe new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity, which is currently being finalised for launch, recognises the important contribution that participating in sport and physical activity can make to improving the physical and mental wellbeing of children and young people, adults and older people. That includes those taking part in non-competitive horse riding. The extensive research that supports the Strategy clearly demonstrates the benefits of being physically active include improved social skills and physical and mental wellbeing.","answerHtml":"During my mandate funding totalling £45,038 has been provided to support organisations who provide opportunities for people of all abilities to experience horse riding in a non-competitive and competitive setting. That funding has included awards to a range of riding for the disabled facilities including for example the Riding for the Disabled Association (Coleraine & District Group) Ltd and the NI Polo Club. In addition, 13 Covid Safe Sports Packs with a total value of £4,875 have been provided to this sector.
In terms of the current financial support available, Sport NI has a small grants programme called Project Re-Boot: Activate (awards up to £5k) which is open for applications from eligible organisations, including community/voluntary organisations that deliver or enable sport and/or physical recreation as its primary activity. Further information can be found at: SPORT NI | Project Re-Boot: Activate.
The new Strategy for Sport and Physical Activity, which is currently being finalised for launch, recognises the important contribution that participating in sport and physical activity can make to improving the physical and mental wellbeing of children and young people, adults and older people. That includes those taking part in non-competitive horse riding. The extensive research that supports the Strategy clearly demonstrates the benefits of being physically active include improved social skills and physical and mental wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028910%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365749"}},{"id":"366834","reference":"AQO 3081/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-27","answerBy":"2022-02-07","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service have finalised the OBC 1 for the Redevelopment of Magilligan and it is expected to be submitted to DoF later this month.\n\nIn parallel NIPS, have been undertaking a number of significant projects at Magilligan including work to upgrade the incoming power supply which is due to be completed by the end of March 2022 at a cost of £4.3 million, the construction of the new House of Worship which opened in October 2021 at a cost of £425k and the construction of a new tuckshop and a new store facilities scheduled for completion in August 2022 at an estimated cost of £838k and £810k respectively.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service have finalised the OBC 1 for the Redevelopment of Magilligan and it is expected to be submitted to DoF later this month.
In parallel NIPS, have been undertaking a number of significant projects at Magilligan including work to upgrade the incoming power supply which is due to be completed by the end of March 2022 at a cost of £4.3 million, the construction of the new House of Worship which opened in October 2021 at a cost of £425k and the construction of a new tuckshop and a new store facilities scheduled for completion in August 2022 at an estimated cost of £838k and £810k respectively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%203081%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=366834","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=366834"}},{"id":"365246","reference":"AQW 28735/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-26","answerBy":"2022-02-10","answered":"2022-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether customers who have signed up for the 1GB Fibrus Hyper Fast Broadband speed, but whose actual broadband speed falls within another pricing bracket, will have the difference in price refunded.","answerText":"The Project Stratum wholesale pricing model formed part of the bid and there is a process to benchmark these prices against comparable services in the rest of the UK, under the State aid rules that govern the project. The network is open for any retail service providers to use, encouraging choice and competition in the market.\n\nRetail pricing for broadband services for consumers and businesses is not regulated but is set by the Retail Service Provider (RSP). For queries relating to broadband performance and pricing, my Department encourages citizens to contact their RSP. As Fibrus RSP is the only provider currently offering services on the Project Stratum network, they can be contacted via telephone on 02890 993 230, or by completing the online form at Contact Us | Get In Touch | Fibrus.","answerHtml":"The Project Stratum wholesale pricing model formed part of the bid and there is a process to benchmark these prices against comparable services in the rest of the UK, under the State aid rules that govern the project. The network is open for any retail service providers to use, encouraging choice and competition in the market.
Retail pricing for broadband services for consumers and businesses is not regulated but is set by the Retail Service Provider (RSP). For queries relating to broadband performance and pricing, my Department encourages citizens to contact their RSP. As Fibrus RSP is the only provider currently offering services on the Project Stratum network, they can be contacted via telephone on 02890 993 230, or by completing the online form at Contact Us | Get In Touch | Fibrus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028735%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365246","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365246"}},{"id":"365245","reference":"AQW 28734/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-26","answerBy":"2022-02-10","answered":"2022-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number of dog thefts reported in each of the last five years; and (ii) the number of those that resulted in (a) the return of the dog; and (b) a prosecution.","answerText":"The recording of information on offences involving the theft of dogs is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct any question relating to the number of recorded offences involving theft of dogs to the PSNI.\n\nThe Department holds information on the number of convictions at courts for offences. However, there is no offence specific to the theft of dogs. Such offences may be recorded under general theft and the Department does not hold information relating to the specific detail of any animal stolen under this generic offence description. It is therefore not possible for the Department to provide information in relation to the number of dogs that may subsequently have been returned to their owner after being stolen, or in relation to the number of prosecutions at courts in relation to the theft of a dog.","answerHtml":"The recording of information on offences involving the theft of dogs is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct any question relating to the number of recorded offences involving theft of dogs to the PSNI.
The Department holds information on the number of convictions at courts for offences. However, there is no offence specific to the theft of dogs. Such offences may be recorded under general theft and the Department does not hold information relating to the specific detail of any animal stolen under this generic offence description. It is therefore not possible for the Department to provide information in relation to the number of dogs that may subsequently have been returned to their owner after being stolen, or in relation to the number of prosecutions at courts in relation to the theft of a dog.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028734%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365245"}},{"id":"365244","reference":"AQW 28733/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-26","answerBy":"2022-02-10","answered":"2022-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of accessible and inclusive play parks in each constituency.","answerText":"My department does not own or manage any play parks. These are the remit of local councils, therefore I am unable to provide the information requested.","answerHtml":"My department does not own or manage any play parks. These are the remit of local councils, therefore I am unable to provide the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028733%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365244"}},{"id":"365243","reference":"AQW 28732/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-26","answerBy":"2022-02-10","answered":"2022-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her assessment of the provision of sex and relationship education in Northern Irish schools in relation to that of (i) England; (ii) Scotland; (iii) Wales; and (iv) the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"The school curricula across all Areas of Learning including RSE are very different across each of the United Kingdom jurisdictions and the Republic of Ireland.\n\nNorthern Ireland has a world-class curriculum. Greater flexibility and less prescription are key features allowing schools autonomy to offer and deliver suitable curricular approaches matched to needs of their pupils and develop the skills that young people need for the modern world.\n\nSuch flexibility in curriculum delivery and pedagogical autonomy is a consistent feature of high performing school systems, where school-level flexibility and teacher collaboration become the drivers of improvement because they lead to innovations in teaching and learning at a time when issues are important to young people.","answerHtml":"The school curricula across all Areas of Learning including RSE are very different across each of the United Kingdom jurisdictions and the Republic of Ireland.
Northern Ireland has a world-class curriculum. Greater flexibility and less prescription are key features allowing schools autonomy to offer and deliver suitable curricular approaches matched to needs of their pupils and develop the skills that young people need for the modern world.
Such flexibility in curriculum delivery and pedagogical autonomy is a consistent feature of high performing school systems, where school-level flexibility and teacher collaboration become the drivers of improvement because they lead to innovations in teaching and learning at a time when issues are important to young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028732%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365243"}},{"id":"365242","reference":"AQW 28731/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-26","answerBy":"2022-02-10","answered":"2022-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 27819/17-22, (i) for her assessment of how staff shortages in the PSNI are impacting on the functioning of the justice system; (ii) to detail the efforts she is making to ensure adequate funds are in place to address any staffing shortages within the PSNI; and (iii) to outline what steps she will take to ensure funds, that could help fill staff vacancies across the justice system, are not left unspent and returned to the Department of Finance.","answerText":"The Member will be aware that recruitment and retention of police officers and civilian staff within the PSNI is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nI continue to work closely with Executive Colleagues, including the Minister of Finance, and the Chief Constable to ensure that the PSNI is properly resourced in all aspects, for the challenges it faces. My Officials also work closely with the PSNI and the Department of Finance on budgets through the in-year monitoring rounds and the budget setting process for future years.\n\nThe Chief Constable has decided on a precautionary basis to defer the March 2022 PSNI recruitment intake. This decision is based on the assessment made of the impact of the draft 2022-25 budget for PSNI. This is one of many steps, which will need to be taken to live within the draft Department of Justice budget settlement, of which PSNI is the largest part.\n\nThe proposed draft budget allocation is likely to have a significant long term impact on front line services to the public and to victims of crime which in turn severely impacts public confidence in policing and justice.\n\nI have made it very clear to the Finance Minister and the Executive that the draft budget would be incredibly damaging and create major challenges not just for the PSNI but for the entire justice system.\n\nAs I outlined in my answer to AQW 27819/17-22 the ability to recruit to fill current and future vacancies will be affected by the outcome of the budget. The draft budget would require significant reductions in workforce across the justice system and would impact on the services that can be delivered.\n\nMy answer to AQW 27819/17-22 also details the steps being taken to address any shortages. The Department always seeks to minimise underspends at year end, and works closely with the Department of Finance during monitoring rounds. The Department has successfully delivered underspends for non ring-fenced resource and capital budgets to within acceptable levels due to an effective budget management process. This is achieved largely by a continual process of keeping budgets under review.","answerHtml":"The Member will be aware that recruitment and retention of police officers and civilian staff within the PSNI is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
I continue to work closely with Executive Colleagues, including the Minister of Finance, and the Chief Constable to ensure that the PSNI is properly resourced in all aspects, for the challenges it faces. My Officials also work closely with the PSNI and the Department of Finance on budgets through the in-year monitoring rounds and the budget setting process for future years.
The Chief Constable has decided on a precautionary basis to defer the March 2022 PSNI recruitment intake. This decision is based on the assessment made of the impact of the draft 2022-25 budget for PSNI. This is one of many steps, which will need to be taken to live within the draft Department of Justice budget settlement, of which PSNI is the largest part.
The proposed draft budget allocation is likely to have a significant long term impact on front line services to the public and to victims of crime which in turn severely impacts public confidence in policing and justice.
I have made it very clear to the Finance Minister and the Executive that the draft budget would be incredibly damaging and create major challenges not just for the PSNI but for the entire justice system.
As I outlined in my answer to AQW 27819/17-22 the ability to recruit to fill current and future vacancies will be affected by the outcome of the budget. The draft budget would require significant reductions in workforce across the justice system and would impact on the services that can be delivered.
My answer to AQW 27819/17-22 also details the steps being taken to address any shortages. The Department always seeks to minimise underspends at year end, and works closely with the Department of Finance during monitoring rounds. The Department has successfully delivered underspends for non ring-fenced resource and capital budgets to within acceptable levels due to an effective budget management process. This is achieved largely by a continual process of keeping budgets under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028731%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=365242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=365242"}},{"id":"364949","reference":"AQW 28644/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-25","answerBy":"2022-02-09","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what steps were taken to ensure freelance workers in the creative industry sector, such as musicians, DJs, promoters, publicists, artist managers, security staff, technicians, sound engineers and other associated staff, were able to access previous and current arts sector support grants; (ii) for her assessment of the effect on these workers of the downturn in trade in the night-time hospitality and nightclub industries; and (iii) to detail any plans she has to support these workers both prior to, and beyond, the 26 January 2022 date for a change in restrictions, should this downturn persist.","answerText":"In September, I acted on the recommendation of the Culture Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce and launched the Creative Individuals Recovery Programme. This provided awards of up to £2,000 to help creative freelance and self-employed individuals reactivate, or enhance their trade, vocation or profession within the creative economy.\n\nI am pleased to say that 1433 people received just under £3 million.","answerHtml":"In September, I acted on the recommendation of the Culture Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce and launched the Creative Individuals Recovery Programme. This provided awards of up to £2,000 to help creative freelance and self-employed individuals reactivate, or enhance their trade, vocation or profession within the creative economy.
I am pleased to say that 1433 people received just under £3 million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028644%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364949"}},{"id":"364948","reference":"AQW 28643/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-25","answerBy":"2022-02-09","answered":"2022-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 27713/17-22, (i) what consideration he has given to representing Northern Irish residents, who have second homes in Co. Donegal affected by mica, in their bids to the Republic of Ireland government to secure compensation as part of the Republic’s Mica Redress Scheme; and (ii) what conversations he has had with the Republic of Ireland government in relation to this issue.","answerText":"My Department does not have policy responsibility for housing and therefore I have not had conversations with the Irish Government on this matter.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have policy responsibility for housing and therefore I have not had conversations with the Irish Government on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028643%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364948"}},{"id":"364947","reference":"AQW 28642/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-25","answerBy":"2022-02-09","answered":"2022-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 22273/17-22, to detail (i) any contingency plans he has developed to overcome potential food and goods shortages; and (ii) the potential steps he envisages being considered when he states in his answer that we will do all we can.","answerText":"TEO lead contingency planning for the Executive.\n\nAs such a broad range of potential scenarios could ensue, any steps to mitigate would depend on the specific goods/shortages and the sectors affected. It is therefore not possible to provide potential steps to a hypothetical scenario.\n\nIt is worth noting that there has been much speculation over the past number of years about shortages affecting Northern Ireland. However there has been no evidence of widespread shortages arising.","answerHtml":"TEO lead contingency planning for the Executive.
As such a broad range of potential scenarios could ensue, any steps to mitigate would depend on the specific goods/shortages and the sectors affected. It is therefore not possible to provide potential steps to a hypothetical scenario.
It is worth noting that there has been much speculation over the past number of years about shortages affecting Northern Ireland. However there has been no evidence of widespread shortages arising.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028642%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364947"}},{"id":"364946","reference":"AQW 28641/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-25","answerBy":"2022-02-09","answered":"2022-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the potential for food shortages in the coming months; and (ii) to detail any contingency plans he has developed to overcome any potential shortages.","answerText":"I recognise the enormous pressure that the agri-food industry is experiencing with regards to supply chain issues. The implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol has had a substantial administrative impact on Northern Ireland agri-food businesses.\n\nI recently met with the major Food retailers and they expressed concern over the level of checks and documentation required for food movements from GB to NI since 1st January 2021. This additional bureaucracy has resulted in increased costs, delays and uncertainty of trade and food supply and has also led to some suppliers no longer trading with NI businesses.\n\nWhilst I am assured that there is currently no immediate risk to food supplies in NI, I remain very concerned with the levels of the current food checking arrangements and the significant burdens they are placing on both retailers and consumers. I have been consistent in stating that I firmly believe they are unsustainable in the long term and the processes need removed.\n\nMy Department has developed a number of measures to continuously assess the health of Northern Ireland’s food supply system. These include a Cross Departmental Food Supply Forum, A Public Sector Food Working Group, a Northern Ireland Food Supply Contingency Plan and a Food Observatory Report. This provides strategic and consistent direction across the Northern Ireland Executive on the current and foreseeable pressures, on the entire food supply chain into and throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nMy officials continue to track the health of the food supply chain through the Food Observatory Report and the supporting Food Supply Impact Assessment.\n\nContingency planning across the supply chain is one of the strategic priorities that I included in my Department’s recent consultation proposals for a Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework. This proposed priority would build on the food supply security work, led by my Department during the Covid-19 pandemic, which involved a coordinated cross-sectoral approach to address existing or emerging risks along the entire food chain.\n\nThis work will encourage and support measures to maintain the food supply chains flexibility and resilience.","answerHtml":"I recognise the enormous pressure that the agri-food industry is experiencing with regards to supply chain issues. The implementation of the Northern Ireland Protocol has had a substantial administrative impact on Northern Ireland agri-food businesses.
I recently met with the major Food retailers and they expressed concern over the level of checks and documentation required for food movements from GB to NI since 1st January 2021. This additional bureaucracy has resulted in increased costs, delays and uncertainty of trade and food supply and has also led to some suppliers no longer trading with NI businesses.
Whilst I am assured that there is currently no immediate risk to food supplies in NI, I remain very concerned with the levels of the current food checking arrangements and the significant burdens they are placing on both retailers and consumers. I have been consistent in stating that I firmly believe they are unsustainable in the long term and the processes need removed.
My Department has developed a number of measures to continuously assess the health of Northern Ireland’s food supply system. These include a Cross Departmental Food Supply Forum, A Public Sector Food Working Group, a Northern Ireland Food Supply Contingency Plan and a Food Observatory Report. This provides strategic and consistent direction across the Northern Ireland Executive on the current and foreseeable pressures, on the entire food supply chain into and throughout Northern Ireland.
My officials continue to track the health of the food supply chain through the Food Observatory Report and the supporting Food Supply Impact Assessment.
Contingency planning across the supply chain is one of the strategic priorities that I included in my Department’s recent consultation proposals for a Northern Ireland Food Strategy Framework. This proposed priority would build on the food supply security work, led by my Department during the Covid-19 pandemic, which involved a coordinated cross-sectoral approach to address existing or emerging risks along the entire food chain.
This work will encourage and support measures to maintain the food supply chains flexibility and resilience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028641%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364946","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364946"}},{"id":"364945","reference":"AQW 28640/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-25","answerBy":"2022-02-09","answered":"2022-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the supply and demand for those over 25 who want to begin an apprenticeship; (ii) to detail (a) the support; and (b) place numbers available for people over 25 who wish to retrain via an apprenticeship; and (iii) whether he will consider making unfilled places on apprenticeship courses for younger trainees automatically available for those aged over 25.","answerText":"Taking account of business needs and recruitment and selection policies, the demand for apprentices is determined by employers.\n\nBy association, demand for places on the Department’s Higher Level Apprenticeships (Level 4 and above) and ApprenticeshipsNI (Level 2 and 3) programmes is also determined by employers. The Department does not allocate a specific number of places on each programme.\n\nIn the case of Higher Level Apprenticeships, subject to other eligibility criteria being met, funding for training is available on an all-age basis\n\nIn relation to ApprenticeshipsNI, funding for apprentices aged 25 years and over is focused on identified economically important sectors, with the rate of funding set at 50% of that available in respect of those aged 16-24 years.\n\nIn individual cases where the age eligibility criterion has not been met, to ensure equity of treatment for all prospective apprentices, the eligibility rules of the programme must be applied consistently and so funding cannot be made available.\n\nThe Department has recently considered, at length, the removal of age-related eligibility criteria. In light of the implications of the draft budget for 2022-2025 however, it is unlikely that such a change can be implemented at this time.","answerHtml":"Taking account of business needs and recruitment and selection policies, the demand for apprentices is determined by employers.
By association, demand for places on the Department’s Higher Level Apprenticeships (Level 4 and above) and ApprenticeshipsNI (Level 2 and 3) programmes is also determined by employers. The Department does not allocate a specific number of places on each programme.
In the case of Higher Level Apprenticeships, subject to other eligibility criteria being met, funding for training is available on an all-age basis
In relation to ApprenticeshipsNI, funding for apprentices aged 25 years and over is focused on identified economically important sectors, with the rate of funding set at 50% of that available in respect of those aged 16-24 years.
In individual cases where the age eligibility criterion has not been met, to ensure equity of treatment for all prospective apprentices, the eligibility rules of the programme must be applied consistently and so funding cannot be made available.
The Department has recently considered, at length, the removal of age-related eligibility criteria. In light of the implications of the draft budget for 2022-2025 however, it is unlikely that such a change can be implemented at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028640%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364945"}},{"id":"364771","reference":"AQW 28558/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-24","answerBy":"2022-02-08","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 27128/17-22, what assessment has been made of whether independent care providers, providing care in the community, are less likely to take on rural clients, given the rate they are paid remains the same, regardless of travel time to and from an appointment.","answerText":"No specific assessment has been undertaken of whether independent providers are less likely to take on rural clients. Care packages are offered out to the independent sector on an equitable basis, allowing providers to make a decision on whether they are able or willing to deliver the care specified. Ultimately, this will be a decision by the provider based on their business model and staffing complement. Independent Sector providers employ staff on a range of terms and conditions which, depending on their business needs, can relate to the payment of travel expenses or enhanced hourly rates.\n\nWhilst Trusts endeavour to provide care packages where they are required, ultimately there are a range of factors which can impact upon this delivery. Where there are challenges in the delivery of care packages, Trusts have in place mitigation measures. To support the continuation of care Trusts send a list of outstanding cases to both their in-house Domiciliary Care Service and all Independent Sector Providers each day requesting their assistance with accepting these packages of care either in full or part. The outstanding list is shared with commissioning teams and Key Workers every evening for review and validation. Key Workers also remain in close contact with Service users to review their needs or changes in circumstances and to offer alternatives to a Trust facilitated package of care where appropriate.\n\nGiven the current position within the sector I recognise that there is immediate work to be done, and I was therefore pleased to be able to announce a £23million support package which has facilitated increased capacity across the social care sector for the remainder of 2021/22.\n\nThere is also clearly a need to address issues in the long term. The work of the Reform of Adult Social Care will inform the long term reform of the sector, including domiciliary care, and I am pleased to have launched a public consultation on the Reform of Adult Social Care on 26 January.\n\nThis public consultation sets our proposals for reforming adult care and support and making significant system change.\n\nAmong the 48 proposals we recommend a more proactive commissioning approach which will actively plan and shape service provision and a revised locality based model of domiciliary care based on the model piloted in the South Eastern Trust which has been very positively received.\n\nAs we move to a regional focus on provision of social care services it is our understanding all people will benefit from a review of the adult social care services regardless of location. As part of the public consultation we will seek additional information from our rural needs impact assessment.\n\nFollowing the completion of the consultation, responses and feedback will be analysed and collated for review and a consultation feedback report published. The consultation will inform the development of a new strategy for adult social care.","answerHtml":"No specific assessment has been undertaken of whether independent providers are less likely to take on rural clients. Care packages are offered out to the independent sector on an equitable basis, allowing providers to make a decision on whether they are able or willing to deliver the care specified. Ultimately, this will be a decision by the provider based on their business model and staffing complement. Independent Sector providers employ staff on a range of terms and conditions which, depending on their business needs, can relate to the payment of travel expenses or enhanced hourly rates.
Whilst Trusts endeavour to provide care packages where they are required, ultimately there are a range of factors which can impact upon this delivery. Where there are challenges in the delivery of care packages, Trusts have in place mitigation measures. To support the continuation of care Trusts send a list of outstanding cases to both their in-house Domiciliary Care Service and all Independent Sector Providers each day requesting their assistance with accepting these packages of care either in full or part. The outstanding list is shared with commissioning teams and Key Workers every evening for review and validation. Key Workers also remain in close contact with Service users to review their needs or changes in circumstances and to offer alternatives to a Trust facilitated package of care where appropriate.
Given the current position within the sector I recognise that there is immediate work to be done, and I was therefore pleased to be able to announce a £23million support package which has facilitated increased capacity across the social care sector for the remainder of 2021/22.
There is also clearly a need to address issues in the long term. The work of the Reform of Adult Social Care will inform the long term reform of the sector, including domiciliary care, and I am pleased to have launched a public consultation on the Reform of Adult Social Care on 26 January.
This public consultation sets our proposals for reforming adult care and support and making significant system change.
Among the 48 proposals we recommend a more proactive commissioning approach which will actively plan and shape service provision and a revised locality based model of domiciliary care based on the model piloted in the South Eastern Trust which has been very positively received.
As we move to a regional focus on provision of social care services it is our understanding all people will benefit from a review of the adult social care services regardless of location. As part of the public consultation we will seek additional information from our rural needs impact assessment.
Following the completion of the consultation, responses and feedback will be analysed and collated for review and a consultation feedback report published. The consultation will inform the development of a new strategy for adult social care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028558%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364771"}},{"id":"364770","reference":"AQW 28557/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-24","answerBy":"2022-02-08","answered":"2022-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 27128/17-22, to provide a comparison between the hourly rate charged by (i) Health and Social Care Trusts for care in the community that Trusts provide themselves; and (ii) the amount paid to independent care providers for providing the same service.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board have confirmed the most recent figures (for 2020-21) as outlined in the table below. The table sets out the average cost per hour delivered in respect of Domiciliary Care for each of the 5 HSC Trusts as reported in the Trust Financial Returns for 2019-20, which have been uplifted for 2020-21 average price increases.\n\nDomiciliary Care - Trust Expenditure as per 2019-20 Trust Financial Returns uplifted by 2.5% for 2020-21*\n\nBHSCT\tNHSCT\tSEHSCT\tSHSCT\tWHSCT\nStatutory\t£41.64\t£27.16\t£32.37\t£29.70\t£35.94\nIndependent\t£16.47\t£17.70\t£15.91\t£14.81\t£16.81\n\n*The costs reported in the annual Trust Financial Returns are used to produce the Community Service Indicators and there may be disparities across Trusts in the information which they provide to produce these costings.\n\nStatutory figures include direct costs (e.g. staff costs) as well as indirect costs (e.g. accommodation costs for the service team) which may vary across Trust areas. There may also be other reasons which may cause variation, e.g. different methods of capturing activity or one off costs in the year of collection.\n\nThe table reflects what it costs a Trust to directly deliver care, or to purchase from the Independent Sector. The HSC would have no information on the actual costs for Independent providers’ to provide their service.\n\nIt should be noted following on from the £23 million funding package I announced in November 2021 a funding package has been allocated against increasing the hourly rate paid, to a maximum of £18 per hour, for independent domiciliary care providers across all Trust areas, effective 1 November 2021.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board have confirmed the most recent figures (for 2020-21) as outlined in the table below. The table sets out the average cost per hour delivered in respect of Domiciliary Care for each of the 5 HSC Trusts as reported in the Trust Financial Returns for 2019-20, which have been uplifted for 2020-21 average price increases.
Domiciliary Care - Trust Expenditure as per 2019-20 Trust Financial Returns uplifted by 2.5% for 2020-21*
| BHSCT | NHSCT | SEHSCT | SHSCT | WHSCT | |
| Statutory | £41.64 | £27.16 | £32.37 | £29.70 | £35.94 |
| Independent | £16.47 | £17.70 | £15.91 | £14.81 | £16.81 |
*The costs reported in the annual Trust Financial Returns are used to produce the Community Service Indicators and there may be disparities across Trusts in the information which they provide to produce these costings.
Statutory figures include direct costs (e.g. staff costs) as well as indirect costs (e.g. accommodation costs for the service team) which may vary across Trust areas. There may also be other reasons which may cause variation, e.g. different methods of capturing activity or one off costs in the year of collection.
The table reflects what it costs a Trust to directly deliver care, or to purchase from the Independent Sector. The HSC would have no information on the actual costs for Independent providers’ to provide their service.
It should be noted following on from the £23 million funding package I announced in November 2021 a funding package has been allocated against increasing the hourly rate paid, to a maximum of £18 per hour, for independent domiciliary care providers across all Trust areas, effective 1 November 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028557%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364770"}},{"id":"364769","reference":"AQW 28556/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-24","answerBy":"2022-02-08","answered":"2022-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his plans to retain, or otherwise, the rule requiring pupils in post-primary schools to wear face coverings in schools.","answerText":"The Executive are due to meet on 10 February to discuss remaining COVID-19 restrictions, including face covering requirements.","answerHtml":"The Executive are due to meet on 10 February to discuss remaining COVID-19 restrictions, including face covering requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028556%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364769"}},{"id":"364768","reference":"AQW 28555/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-24","answerBy":"2022-02-08","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people in Northern Ireland who suffer from a rare disease, defined by the EU as one that typically affects an average of one in 2,000 people; and (ii) the number of different rare diseases present in the population in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Although rare diseases may be individually rare, they are collectively common, with 1 in 17 people being affected by a rare disease at some point in their lives. It is estimated that currently, there are over 7,000 known rare diseases and new conditions are being described through medical literature on a regular basis.\n\nMy Department does not hold definitive information on the number of people with a rare disease or the number of rare diseases prevalent in the community. Such sensitive information may identify individuals.","answerHtml":"Although rare diseases may be individually rare, they are collectively common, with 1 in 17 people being affected by a rare disease at some point in their lives. It is estimated that currently, there are over 7,000 known rare diseases and new conditions are being described through medical literature on a regular basis.
My Department does not hold definitive information on the number of people with a rare disease or the number of rare diseases prevalent in the community. Such sensitive information may identify individuals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028555%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364768"}},{"id":"364767","reference":"AQW 28554/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-24","answerBy":"2022-02-08","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of prostate cancer tests carried out in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Information on the number of prostate tests carried out in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years is presented in the table below. A breakdown by constituency is not currently available.\n\nNumber of prostate cancer tests carried out in NI*\n\n2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\t2021**\n37,243\t44,232\t41,531\t33,994\t39,645\n\nSource: Health & Social Care Trusts\n\n*Figures relate to the number of prostate MRIs, biopsies and PSA blood tests carried out in NI.\n\n**Information for 2021 is incomplete as clinical coding is ongoing.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of prostate tests carried out in Northern Ireland in each of the last five years is presented in the table below. A breakdown by constituency is not currently available.
Number of prostate cancer tests carried out in NI*
| 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | 2021** |
| 37,243 | 44,232 | 41,531 | 33,994 | 39,645 |
Source: Health & Social Care Trusts
*Figures relate to the number of prostate MRIs, biopsies and PSA blood tests carried out in NI.
**Information for 2021 is incomplete as clinical coding is ongoing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028554%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364767"}},{"id":"364610","reference":"AQW 28469/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-21","answerBy":"2022-02-07","answered":"2022-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of men convicted of the homicide of a woman, who had previous convictions for any crime relating to the physical, mental abuse or assault of women, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"During the period 2016 – 2020, there were seven persons convicted at court of a homicide of a female who had a previous conviction or convictions at court for Violence Against the Person offences. However, from information held, it is not possible to determine whether the victims of these previous convictions were women.\n\nNote:\n\nFigures relate to initial disposal at court only. Results of appeals are not included.\n\nHomicides have been taken to include murder, manslaughter and infanticide offences.\n\nFigures relate to cases where there was a conviction for at least one of the offences specified.\n\nFigures for 2020 are the most recent available.","answerHtml":"During the period 2016 – 2020, there were seven persons convicted at court of a homicide of a female who had a previous conviction or convictions at court for Violence Against the Person offences. However, from information held, it is not possible to determine whether the victims of these previous convictions were women.
Note:
Figures relate to initial disposal at court only. Results of appeals are not included.
Homicides have been taken to include murder, manslaughter and infanticide offences.
Figures relate to cases where there was a conviction for at least one of the offences specified.
Figures for 2020 are the most recent available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028469%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364610","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364610"}},{"id":"364609","reference":"AQW 28468/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-21","answerBy":"2022-02-07","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of female victims of homicide in each of the last ten years.","answerText":"The Department does not hold the information requested. This is a matter for the Chief Constable. You may therefore wish to direct your question to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold the information requested. This is a matter for the Chief Constable. You may therefore wish to direct your question to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028468%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364609","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364609"}},{"id":"364608","reference":"AQW 28467/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-21","answerBy":"2022-02-07","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her assessment of how rising GCSE and A-Level exam results are affecting the take up of places at (i) further education colleges; and (ii) universities.","answerText":"Educational outcomes for NI learners have been rising since 2006 as a result of high quality leadership and teaching across our system. There has been an increase in the types of opportunities, awards and qualifications available to young people and an increase in the number awarded. Notably, increasing numbers of our young people are leaving school having achieved the key benchmark of 5 GCSEs or equivalent, including GCSE English and Maths. Improvements in educational outcomes have increased young people’s opportunities both for future employment and for progression to the next stage of education and training.\n\nThe allocation of places and admissions arrangements for Further Education colleges and universities are a matter for the Minister for the Economy.","answerHtml":"Educational outcomes for NI learners have been rising since 2006 as a result of high quality leadership and teaching across our system. There has been an increase in the types of opportunities, awards and qualifications available to young people and an increase in the number awarded. Notably, increasing numbers of our young people are leaving school having achieved the key benchmark of 5 GCSEs or equivalent, including GCSE English and Maths. Improvements in educational outcomes have increased young people’s opportunities both for future employment and for progression to the next stage of education and training.
The allocation of places and admissions arrangements for Further Education colleges and universities are a matter for the Minister for the Economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028467%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364608","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364608"}},{"id":"364607","reference":"AQW 28466/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-21","answerBy":"2022-02-07","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of how rising GCSE and A-Level exam results are affecting further education college enrolments; and (ii) what steps he is taking, and what conversations he has had with the Minister of Education, to address this issue and increase the number of students enrolling at further education colleges.","answerText":"As you are aware, my Department has recently published an Official Statistics bulletin entitled Further Education Sector Activity in Northern Ireland: 2016/17 to 2020/21. This shows a continuing decline in Further Education (FE) college enrolments from 153,088 in 2016/17 to 97,532 in 2020/21 (36.3 per cent) with a 26.3 per cent fall on 2019/20 (132,354). I recognise that one of the factors behind this decline may be the increasing proportion of learners receiving higher GCSE and A level examination results. However, it is difficult to determine the impact of other factors including the difficulties colleges have faced in delivering community education during the pandemic.\n\nThere are a range of factors that influence young people’s decisions around learning and it is vital that they, their parents and carers are aware of the range of options and pathways available to them as well as the qualifications and skills to enable them to make informed choices. My Department is working with the Department of Education to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to 14-19 education and training provision and a Framework and Action Plan are currently being finalised. The actions set out in the Framework, aim to ensure young people understand the options and pathways available to them and can achieve their full potential as they move through their individual educational and training journey.\n\nThe FE colleges themselves have developed communication, learner engagement, and recruitment strategies to ensure that stakeholders including young people and parents are better informed about the specialist, diverse, and high quality range of provision delivered by the FE sector.\n\nThe six FE colleges have collaborated to develop a communications campaign, known as “FE for Me” which is part of a wider strategic approach aimed at building the profile of the FE sector and promoting FE as the first choice for professional and technical education. The campaign highlights the unique offering of the FE sector and the innovative FE products that set it apart from the offerings in the school and university sectors, and promotes opportunities for school leavers including full-time and part-time Higher Education (HE) courses and higher level apprenticeships within the six regional FE colleges.\n\nThe Department is currently undertaking a review of Level 4 & 5 Provision and Higher Education in Further Education (HE in FE). The review was initiated for a number of reasons, including declining HE in FE enrolments over a number of recent years. The review is considering a wide range of issues, including pathways into and through HE in FE, and is due to conclude in spring 2022.\n\nI am very aware of the key role which FE colleges play in providing learners with those skills which they need to achieve their potential and which are critical to growing our economy and realising the 10X Economic Vision. I am committed to supporting colleges to carry out that role and will continue to work with the Minister for Education to ensure that further education remains a viable and attractive option for learners.","answerHtml":"As you are aware, my Department has recently published an Official Statistics bulletin entitled Further Education Sector Activity in Northern Ireland: 2016/17 to 2020/21. This shows a continuing decline in Further Education (FE) college enrolments from 153,088 in 2016/17 to 97,532 in 2020/21 (36.3 per cent) with a 26.3 per cent fall on 2019/20 (132,354). I recognise that one of the factors behind this decline may be the increasing proportion of learners receiving higher GCSE and A level examination results. However, it is difficult to determine the impact of other factors including the difficulties colleges have faced in delivering community education during the pandemic.
There are a range of factors that influence young people’s decisions around learning and it is vital that they, their parents and carers are aware of the range of options and pathways available to them as well as the qualifications and skills to enable them to make informed choices. My Department is working with the Department of Education to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to 14-19 education and training provision and a Framework and Action Plan are currently being finalised. The actions set out in the Framework, aim to ensure young people understand the options and pathways available to them and can achieve their full potential as they move through their individual educational and training journey.
The FE colleges themselves have developed communication, learner engagement, and recruitment strategies to ensure that stakeholders including young people and parents are better informed about the specialist, diverse, and high quality range of provision delivered by the FE sector.
The six FE colleges have collaborated to develop a communications campaign, known as “FE for Me” which is part of a wider strategic approach aimed at building the profile of the FE sector and promoting FE as the first choice for professional and technical education. The campaign highlights the unique offering of the FE sector and the innovative FE products that set it apart from the offerings in the school and university sectors, and promotes opportunities for school leavers including full-time and part-time Higher Education (HE) courses and higher level apprenticeships within the six regional FE colleges.
The Department is currently undertaking a review of Level 4 & 5 Provision and Higher Education in Further Education (HE in FE). The review was initiated for a number of reasons, including declining HE in FE enrolments over a number of recent years. The review is considering a wide range of issues, including pathways into and through HE in FE, and is due to conclude in spring 2022.
I am very aware of the key role which FE colleges play in providing learners with those skills which they need to achieve their potential and which are critical to growing our economy and realising the 10X Economic Vision. I am committed to supporting colleges to carry out that role and will continue to work with the Minister for Education to ensure that further education remains a viable and attractive option for learners.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028466%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364607"}},{"id":"364409","reference":"AQW 28394/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the steps she took to ensure that households most in need were able to access the £100 Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme, including (i) how gross household income was measured; (ii) how households with limited or no internet access were able to apply; and (iii) whether older people or households with young children were prioritised.","answerText":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme was designed and is managed by Bryson Care. Bryson Care has confirmed that its design is based on the recommendations of Consumer Council NI and Bryson Energy research ‘The Need for a Fuel Bank Scheme in NI, carried out in 2021.","answerHtml":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme was designed and is managed by Bryson Care. Bryson Care has confirmed that its design is based on the recommendations of Consumer Council NI and Bryson Energy research ‘The Need for a Fuel Bank Scheme in NI, carried out in 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028394%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364409"}},{"id":"364408","reference":"AQW 28393/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on any anticipated changes to COVID-19 regulations relating to care homes.","answerText":"As I am sure you are aware I announced on 15 February 2022 that all COVID-19 legal restrictions in Northern Ireland will be replaced by guidance from that date.\n\nAs we move forward we must balance the easing of restrictions against the ongoing risk still presented by COVID-19. It is important to note that care homes are distinct from other care settings in that they are enclosed environments and have a specific and particular risk profile.\n\nHowever I am pleased to advise that guidance to care homes, and in particular visiting, has been updated in line with the latest scientific evidence.\n\nI can confirm that the Public Health advice is that it is now appropriate to move to the third full stage of the Visiting with Care - Pathway – “Further Easing”\n\nThere will no longer be a restriction on the number of people who may visit but visits remain limited to two households per day. In addition, overnight stays will now also be facilitated for care home residents.\n\nThe document 'Visiting With Care – A Pathway' was developed by the Public Health Agency, working with representatives from the statutory sector, representatives from various relatives’ groups and independent healthcare providers. It sets out an agreed new approach to supporting safe and proportionate increased visiting in care homes.\n\nThe document can be accessed through the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/Visiting%20With%20Care%20-%20A%20Pathway%20-%2017-02-2022%20Update.pdf\n\nCurrent guidance for healthcare professionals, carers and care homes on a range of COVID related areas can be found on the PHA website through the following link:\n\nhttps://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/guidance-hsc-staff-healthcare-workers-and-care-providers/guidance-healthcare","answerHtml":"As I am sure you are aware I announced on 15 February 2022 that all COVID-19 legal restrictions in Northern Ireland will be replaced by guidance from that date.
As we move forward we must balance the easing of restrictions against the ongoing risk still presented by COVID-19. It is important to note that care homes are distinct from other care settings in that they are enclosed environments and have a specific and particular risk profile.
However I am pleased to advise that guidance to care homes, and in particular visiting, has been updated in line with the latest scientific evidence.
I can confirm that the Public Health advice is that it is now appropriate to move to the third full stage of the Visiting with Care - Pathway – “Further Easing”
There will no longer be a restriction on the number of people who may visit but visits remain limited to two households per day. In addition, overnight stays will now also be facilitated for care home residents.
The document 'Visiting With Care – A Pathway' was developed by the Public Health Agency, working with representatives from the statutory sector, representatives from various relatives’ groups and independent healthcare providers. It sets out an agreed new approach to supporting safe and proportionate increased visiting in care homes.
The document can be accessed through the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/Visiting%20With%20Care%20-%20A%20Pathway%20-%2017-02-2022%20Update.pdf
Current guidance for healthcare professionals, carers and care homes on a range of COVID related areas can be found on the PHA website through the following link:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/guidance-hsc-staff-healthcare-workers-and-care-providers/guidance-healthcare
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028393%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364408","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364408"}},{"id":"364407","reference":"AQW 28392/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 27271/17-22, for an update on the NI Reval 2023 non-domestic rates review.","answerText":"Land & Property Services (LPS) has started work on the revaluation of all Non Domestic properties to ensure that business rates stay up-to-date and reflect economic changes in the local property market. This follows the last Non-Domestic Revaluation which was in 2020. The new values will be based on a statutory rental valuation date of 1st October 2021.\n\nA non-domestic revaluation necessitates the collection of rental evidence. LPS has developed a bespoke suite of online rent and lease questionnaires (RALQs) to facilitate the collection of rental information electronically. LPS issued letters to non domestic ratepayers inviting them to complete a RALQ from October 2021.\n\nTo date over 24,000 ratepayers have completed these returns. LPS has made it clear that ratepayers still have time to submit their RALQ, but should do so urgently to ensure the opportunity to provide relevant information isn’t missed.\n\nLPS is now verifying and analysing the RALQ information received to date. The information collected will be used to produce new rateable values. These will be used to calculate business rate bills from April 2023.\n\nEngagement with ratepayers and their professional and trade representatives has been ongoing during the revaluation project and will continue to take place through the remaining 14 months.\n\nProgress on Reval2023 remains on track to achieve the new effective date of 1 April 2023.","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services (LPS) has started work on the revaluation of all Non Domestic properties to ensure that business rates stay up-to-date and reflect economic changes in the local property market. This follows the last Non-Domestic Revaluation which was in 2020. The new values will be based on a statutory rental valuation date of 1st October 2021.
A non-domestic revaluation necessitates the collection of rental evidence. LPS has developed a bespoke suite of online rent and lease questionnaires (RALQs) to facilitate the collection of rental information electronically. LPS issued letters to non domestic ratepayers inviting them to complete a RALQ from October 2021.
To date over 24,000 ratepayers have completed these returns. LPS has made it clear that ratepayers still have time to submit their RALQ, but should do so urgently to ensure the opportunity to provide relevant information isn’t missed.
LPS is now verifying and analysing the RALQ information received to date. The information collected will be used to produce new rateable values. These will be used to calculate business rate bills from April 2023.
Engagement with ratepayers and their professional and trade representatives has been ongoing during the revaluation project and will continue to take place through the remaining 14 months.
Progress on Reval2023 remains on track to achieve the new effective date of 1 April 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364407","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364407"}},{"id":"364405","reference":"AQW 28390/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-20","answerBy":"2022-02-04","answered":"2022-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on when the Strategic Investment Board report into the need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland will be published.","answerText":".\n\nThe Strategic Investment Board’s baseline report, which I commissioned last year, is currently being finalised and I expect to give it my full consideration in early February.\n\nI anticipate that the full report will then be made available to interested stake-holders as soon as possible thereafter.","answerHtml":".
The Strategic Investment Board’s baseline report, which I commissioned last year, is currently being finalised and I expect to give it my full consideration in early February.
I anticipate that the full report will then be made available to interested stake-holders as soon as possible thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028390%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364405","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364405"}},{"id":"364271","reference":"AQW 28310/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-19","answerBy":"2022-02-03","answered":"2022-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the impact of the downturn in hospitality trade on local food and beverage producers, in particular producers of alcoholic beverages.","answerText":"I know that our local food and beverage producers have been negatively impacted by the various restrictions placed on the hospitality sector over the last 2 years.\n\nDespite some of this impact having been negated by increases in retail demand, a significant level of support has been made available in the form of grants, interest-free loans, removal of business rates and job protection as well providing targeted assistance to develop more robust supply-chains, grow on-line sales and purchase new equipment.","answerHtml":"I know that our local food and beverage producers have been negatively impacted by the various restrictions placed on the hospitality sector over the last 2 years.
Despite some of this impact having been negated by increases in retail demand, a significant level of support has been made available in the form of grants, interest-free loans, removal of business rates and job protection as well providing targeted assistance to develop more robust supply-chains, grow on-line sales and purchase new equipment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028310%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364271","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364271"}},{"id":"364270","reference":"AQW 28309/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-19","answerBy":"2022-02-03","answered":"2022-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what plans he has to offer financial support, similar to the £40 million Omicron Hospitality Payment fund, to food and beverage producers whose businesses have suffered losses as a result of the downturn in hospitality trade.","answerText":"The Executive targeted support to the hospitality sector through the Omicron Hospitality Payment scheme as it was presented with evidence that this sector has been severely affected by changes in consumer behaviour arising from the Omicron wave of the pandemic and the associated public health messaging. The Executive also recognised the particular challenges faced by businesses in the hospitality sector at what would traditionally be their busiest time of year.\n\nWhile the Department of Finance has stepped up to deliver the Omicron Hospitality Payment Scheme to a range of businesses within the hospitality sector, responsibility for further business support rests with the Department for the Economy. As Minister of Finance, I have encouraged the Minster for the Economy, and all my Ministerial colleagues, to consider whether there is a need for financial support for businesses in the sectors for which they have policy responsibility.","answerHtml":"The Executive targeted support to the hospitality sector through the Omicron Hospitality Payment scheme as it was presented with evidence that this sector has been severely affected by changes in consumer behaviour arising from the Omicron wave of the pandemic and the associated public health messaging. The Executive also recognised the particular challenges faced by businesses in the hospitality sector at what would traditionally be their busiest time of year.
While the Department of Finance has stepped up to deliver the Omicron Hospitality Payment Scheme to a range of businesses within the hospitality sector, responsibility for further business support rests with the Department for the Economy. As Minister of Finance, I have encouraged the Minster for the Economy, and all my Ministerial colleagues, to consider whether there is a need for financial support for businesses in the sectors for which they have policy responsibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028309%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364270"}},{"id":"364269","reference":"AQW 28308/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-19","answerBy":"2022-02-03","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the impact of the 2017 Electronic Communications Code reforms on (a) farmers and landowners who lease their land to communications operators; and (b) the speed at which rural telecommunications improvements have been, and will be, made; and (ii) to detail any steps he is taking to address this issue.","answerText":"I would answer your questions as follows:\n\nTelecoms is a reserved matter and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) are leading on changes to the Electronic Communications Code (ECC).\n\nThe legislative responsibility for Northern Ireland input to the ECC sits outside my Department’s remit. To date, Northern Ireland’s interests in the ECC have been represented by the Department of Finance, the Department of Justice and the Department for Infrastructure. The Department of Finance have been liaising with DCMS on behalf of Northern Ireland during the latest amendments to the ECC.\n\nThe main impact on farmers is through wayleaves, as you will be aware wayleaves are a commercial matter between the installer and the farmer, however I would hope that installers/suppliers would treat farmers fairly when negotiating wayleaves.\n\nI am aware that the supplier is slightly ahead of targets with over 19,000 premises connected. Full coverage of ultrafast broadband through Project Stratum is due to complete in 2025.\n\n(ii) My Department is part funding (£15m) Project Stratum with Department for Economy (£150m) and has recently announced a further joint investment of £9.9m with DCMS also contributing £22.2m bringing the total investment just over £192m.","answerHtml":"I would answer your questions as follows:
Telecoms is a reserved matter and the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) are leading on changes to the Electronic Communications Code (ECC).
The legislative responsibility for Northern Ireland input to the ECC sits outside my Department’s remit. To date, Northern Ireland’s interests in the ECC have been represented by the Department of Finance, the Department of Justice and the Department for Infrastructure. The Department of Finance have been liaising with DCMS on behalf of Northern Ireland during the latest amendments to the ECC.
The main impact on farmers is through wayleaves, as you will be aware wayleaves are a commercial matter between the installer and the farmer, however I would hope that installers/suppliers would treat farmers fairly when negotiating wayleaves.
I am aware that the supplier is slightly ahead of targets with over 19,000 premises connected. Full coverage of ultrafast broadband through Project Stratum is due to complete in 2025.
(ii) My Department is part funding (£15m) Project Stratum with Department for Economy (£150m) and has recently announced a further joint investment of £9.9m with DCMS also contributing £22.2m bringing the total investment just over £192m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028308%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364269","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364269"}},{"id":"364268","reference":"AQW 28307/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-19","answerBy":"2022-02-03","answered":"2022-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 25768/17-22, to detail the steps he is taking to reduce waiting times for IVF, in particular for older women.","answerText":"I announced on 1 November that the Regional Fertility Centre had implemented a waiting list initiative for IVF services. This initiative involves weekend and evening working to increase capacity for IVF cycles and frozen embryo transfers. As a result, by March 2022, waiting times will be comparable or improved in relation to the position prior to COVID-19.\n\nIn relation to treatment times for older women, the position is that patients are treated strictly in chronological order and older women cannot therefore be given priority or preferential treatment as this would disadvantage younger women.","answerHtml":"I announced on 1 November that the Regional Fertility Centre had implemented a waiting list initiative for IVF services. This initiative involves weekend and evening working to increase capacity for IVF cycles and frozen embryo transfers. As a result, by March 2022, waiting times will be comparable or improved in relation to the position prior to COVID-19.
In relation to treatment times for older women, the position is that patients are treated strictly in chronological order and older women cannot therefore be given priority or preferential treatment as this would disadvantage younger women.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028307%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364268","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364268"}},{"id":"364129","reference":"AQW 28210/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-18","answerBy":"2022-02-02","answered":"2022-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for her assessment of how the reduction in Translink services has affected (i) students commuting to and from university campuses; and (ii) commuting workers.","answerText":"Since the outbreak of COVID-19, our public transport network has flexed in line with the demand. The onset of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is currently causing high levels of absence within Translink.\n\nThe decision to adjust timetables on the week commencing the 10th January followed guidance from the Executive to \"Work from home\" if possible resulting in decreased demand for services. To that end Translink reduced the public transport network to a Saturday plus timetable to allow it to maintain geographic coverage across the North. This allowed for certainty for the travelling public to know what services are running on a given day due to the resilience that the new timetable will build into the Translink network.\n\nWhilst no assessment has been carried out on the impact on students and commuters, as noted previously, Translink was also managing staff absence within its business due to the onset of the Omicron variant. Without the amended Translink timetables, it was likely that there would have been significant cancellations across the network negatively impacting on students and commuting workers. The new timetable added resilience within the network and Translink made sure to give prior notice of changes to all its passengers on its web-site, journey planner, and social media platforms together with extensive press, radio and TV coverage asking passengers to check the web site or call Translink’s Contact Centre. This amendment to the timetable was an operational decision and was always intended to be temporary in nature.\n\nIn line with updated advice from the Executive, regular passenger services will return on Metro on 31st January and on NIR on 7th February. Ulsterbus services will also begin phasing in increased services from 7th February.","answerHtml":"Since the outbreak of COVID-19, our public transport network has flexed in line with the demand. The onset of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is currently causing high levels of absence within Translink.
The decision to adjust timetables on the week commencing the 10th January followed guidance from the Executive to "Work from home" if possible resulting in decreased demand for services. To that end Translink reduced the public transport network to a Saturday plus timetable to allow it to maintain geographic coverage across the North. This allowed for certainty for the travelling public to know what services are running on a given day due to the resilience that the new timetable will build into the Translink network.
Whilst no assessment has been carried out on the impact on students and commuters, as noted previously, Translink was also managing staff absence within its business due to the onset of the Omicron variant. Without the amended Translink timetables, it was likely that there would have been significant cancellations across the network negatively impacting on students and commuting workers. The new timetable added resilience within the network and Translink made sure to give prior notice of changes to all its passengers on its web-site, journey planner, and social media platforms together with extensive press, radio and TV coverage asking passengers to check the web site or call Translink’s Contact Centre. This amendment to the timetable was an operational decision and was always intended to be temporary in nature.
In line with updated advice from the Executive, regular passenger services will return on Metro on 31st January and on NIR on 7th February. Ulsterbus services will also begin phasing in increased services from 7th February.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028210%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364129","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364129"}},{"id":"364128","reference":"AQW 28209/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-18","answerBy":"2022-02-02","answered":"2022-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) what conversations he has had with local councils to promote and support local businesses; and (ii) what contribution his Department has had in terms of local council regulations relating to trading licences and fees for local businesses.","answerText":"I have had a number of conversations with local councils to promote and support local businesses.\n\nFunding provided to Invest NI through my Department's Economic Recovery Action Plan (ERAP) is supporting Council NI in a collaborative piece of research, and individual pieces of research to review the current start up support and the plans for post 2023, when LED2 funds end.","answerHtml":"I have had a number of conversations with local councils to promote and support local businesses.
Funding provided to Invest NI through my Department's Economic Recovery Action Plan (ERAP) is supporting Council NI in a collaborative piece of research, and individual pieces of research to review the current start up support and the plans for post 2023, when LED2 funds end.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028209%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364128"}},{"id":"364127","reference":"AQW 28208/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-18","answerBy":"2022-02-02","answered":"2022-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any conversations he has had with local councils to provide a more joined-up approach to addressing cases of animal cruelty.","answerText":"My Department, local councils and the PSNI meet regularly to discuss matters of mutual interest relating to the enforcement of animal welfare. Councils and the PSNI are also part the Paws for Thought group, chaired by my Department, which co-ordinates activities to specifically address the trafficking of low welfare pups. This long established cooperation enables the undertaking of joint investigations and enforcement action, when required.\n\nIn addition, DAERA fully funds the council delivery of the non-farmed animal welfare enforcement service. Consequently, my officials meet regularly with council officials to discuss financial and administrative arrangements relating to this service.\n\nI welcome this extensive and ongoing information sharing and cooperation between my Department, local councils, and with the other enforcement bodies.","answerHtml":"My Department, local councils and the PSNI meet regularly to discuss matters of mutual interest relating to the enforcement of animal welfare. Councils and the PSNI are also part the Paws for Thought group, chaired by my Department, which co-ordinates activities to specifically address the trafficking of low welfare pups. This long established cooperation enables the undertaking of joint investigations and enforcement action, when required.
In addition, DAERA fully funds the council delivery of the non-farmed animal welfare enforcement service. Consequently, my officials meet regularly with council officials to discuss financial and administrative arrangements relating to this service.
I welcome this extensive and ongoing information sharing and cooperation between my Department, local councils, and with the other enforcement bodies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028208%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364127"}},{"id":"364126","reference":"AQW 28207/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-18","answerBy":"2022-02-02","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any impact assessment that was carried out prior to reducing Translink services in order to assess the potential disruption for (a) students commuting to and from university campuses; (b) commuting workers; and (c) general travellers; and (ii) her assessment of how these groups have been affected by service reductions.","answerText":"Since the outbreak of COVID-19, our public transport network has flexed in line with the demand. The onset of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is currently causing high levels of absence within Translink.\n\nThe decision to adjust timetables on the week commencing the 10th January followed guidance from the Executive to \"Work from home\" if possible resulting in decreased demand for services. To that end Translink reduced the public transport network to a Saturday plus timetable to allow it to maintain geographic coverage across the North. This will allow for certainty for the travelling public to know what services are running on a given day due to the resilience that the new timetable will build into the Translink network.\n\nWhilst no assessment has been carried out on the impact on students and commuters, as noted previously, Translink was also managing staff absence within its business due to the onset of the Omicron variant. Without the amended Translink timetables, it was likely that there would have been significant cancellations across the network negatively impacting on students and commuting workers. The new timetable added resilience within the network and Translink gave prior notice of changes to all its passengers on its web-site, journey planner, and social media platforms together with extensive press, radio and TV coverage asking passengers to check the web site or call Translink’s Contact Centre. This amendment to the timetable was an operational decision and was always intended to be temporary in nature.","answerHtml":"Since the outbreak of COVID-19, our public transport network has flexed in line with the demand. The onset of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 is currently causing high levels of absence within Translink.
The decision to adjust timetables on the week commencing the 10th January followed guidance from the Executive to "Work from home" if possible resulting in decreased demand for services. To that end Translink reduced the public transport network to a Saturday plus timetable to allow it to maintain geographic coverage across the North. This will allow for certainty for the travelling public to know what services are running on a given day due to the resilience that the new timetable will build into the Translink network.
Whilst no assessment has been carried out on the impact on students and commuters, as noted previously, Translink was also managing staff absence within its business due to the onset of the Omicron variant. Without the amended Translink timetables, it was likely that there would have been significant cancellations across the network negatively impacting on students and commuting workers. The new timetable added resilience within the network and Translink gave prior notice of changes to all its passengers on its web-site, journey planner, and social media platforms together with extensive press, radio and TV coverage asking passengers to check the web site or call Translink’s Contact Centre. This amendment to the timetable was an operational decision and was always intended to be temporary in nature.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028207%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364126"}},{"id":"364125","reference":"AQW 28206/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-18","answerBy":"2022-02-02","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why independent hospital staff were not included in the £500 HSC Staff Recognition Payment for independent and voluntary health and social care workers, given other personnel working in the independent sector were included.","answerText":"The special recognition payment is a pro rata payment for HSC and is based on verified hours worked in delivering statutory health and social care over the qualifying period. While private hospitals may have delivered services on behalf of the HSC, a contribution which is much appreciated and valued, they have done so within a pricing structure agreed with the relevant Trust.\n\nNeither the Department, nor individual Trusts, would be in a position to differentiate between hours delivered by an individual on behalf of the HSC and those in caring for wholly private treatments. Private hospitals are therefore not currently within the scope of the scheme.","answerHtml":"The special recognition payment is a pro rata payment for HSC and is based on verified hours worked in delivering statutory health and social care over the qualifying period. While private hospitals may have delivered services on behalf of the HSC, a contribution which is much appreciated and valued, they have done so within a pricing structure agreed with the relevant Trust.
Neither the Department, nor individual Trusts, would be in a position to differentiate between hours delivered by an individual on behalf of the HSC and those in caring for wholly private treatments. Private hospitals are therefore not currently within the scope of the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028206%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=364125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=364125"}},{"id":"363877","reference":"AQW 28099/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-17","answerBy":"2022-02-01","answered":"2022-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 26008/17-22, what consideration he has given to adopting a system similar to the Right to Choose scheme used in England, in order to enable adults more freedom in seeking diagnoses and treatment for ADHD.","answerText":"As advised in AQW 26008/17-22, there are currently no dedicated services for adults with ADHD in Northern Ireland. Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland meet the needs of adults with ADHD through generic adult mental health services. Adults with ADHD symptoms may be referred to mental health services to have their functional symptoms, such anxiety, cognitive issues or depression, addressed. Psychology services also give a clinical opinion, on a case by case basis, to help inform medical decisions about prescribing medication.\n\nGoing forward, the strategic direction of the mental health services over the next 10 years is laid out in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-31. It commits to continued development of our understanding of specialisms within a general mental health service and this includes services for those with ADHD.\n\nIn particular, Action 23 acknowledges there are some individuals who will always need specialist help and support that is often long term. All practicable help and support will be provided to people in need, keeping in line with the vision of person-centred care and a “no wrong door” approach.","answerHtml":"As advised in AQW 26008/17-22, there are currently no dedicated services for adults with ADHD in Northern Ireland. Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland meet the needs of adults with ADHD through generic adult mental health services. Adults with ADHD symptoms may be referred to mental health services to have their functional symptoms, such anxiety, cognitive issues or depression, addressed. Psychology services also give a clinical opinion, on a case by case basis, to help inform medical decisions about prescribing medication.
Going forward, the strategic direction of the mental health services over the next 10 years is laid out in the Mental Health Strategy 2021-31. It commits to continued development of our understanding of specialisms within a general mental health service and this includes services for those with ADHD.
In particular, Action 23 acknowledges there are some individuals who will always need specialist help and support that is often long term. All practicable help and support will be provided to people in need, keeping in line with the vision of person-centred care and a “no wrong door” approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028099%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363877","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363877"}},{"id":"363876","reference":"AQW 28098/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-17","answerBy":"2022-02-01","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on whether or when COVID-19 booster jabs will be included in the vaccination certification system.","answerText":"My officials are currently working to include booster vaccines within the COVID Status certificates. It is anticipated that the functionality will be available on the app from 27th January 2022.\n\nIn the interim, those undertaking international travel may apply for a booster certificate (in PDF form) which contains an internationally recognised QR code.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently working to include booster vaccines within the COVID Status certificates. It is anticipated that the functionality will be available on the app from 27th January 2022.
In the interim, those undertaking international travel may apply for a booster certificate (in PDF form) which contains an internationally recognised QR code.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028098%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363876","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363876"}},{"id":"363875","reference":"AQW 28097/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-17","answerBy":"2022-02-01","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the work being done with the Minister for Communities and Minister of Justice to provide social housing suitable for adults with learning disabilities who have a criminal record.","answerText":"Social housing is a matter for the Department for Communities, the Department of Health provides HSC services to vulnerable adults and people with learning disabilities in social housing and supported living regardless of criminal records. The Department of Health and the Department for Communities engage frequently at a senior official level to develop policy and ensure parity in financial support for the sector.","answerHtml":"Social housing is a matter for the Department for Communities, the Department of Health provides HSC services to vulnerable adults and people with learning disabilities in social housing and supported living regardless of criminal records. The Department of Health and the Department for Communities engage frequently at a senior official level to develop policy and ensure parity in financial support for the sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028097%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363875"}},{"id":"363874","reference":"AQW 28096/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-17","answerBy":"2022-02-01","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) the current trend of the provision of dentists providing NHS care; and (ii) how this is affecting dental care for (a) children; and (b) the wider population.","answerText":"Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, access to a Health Service dentist was generally good. As of 31 March 2021, there were 59.8 dentists per 100,000 of the resident population in Northern Ireland, compared to 42.2 in England and 65% of the Northern Ireland population were registered with a practicing health service dentist.\n\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on capacity within GDS, with dentists currently completing around 59% of their pre-pandemic activity in Q4 2021/22. Practices have largely dealt with those patients experiencing urgent symptoms and many have been offering appointments for check-ups and routine treatment for many months.\n\nRecent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings and the introduction of the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS) in April 2022 is expected to further increase capacity within practices resulting in improved access. Additional investment has been committed for the first quarter of 2022/23 to further support dental practices, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the RSS to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing.\n\nHowever, I do not underestimate the impact that the last two years will have had on the dental health of the population nor the repercussions this will have over the coming years.\n\nMy Department is committed to working with the BDA and other organisations to develop further strategies that will mitigate the impact of the pandemic on dental health over time, and build a sustainable, financially viable future for GDS.\n\nThe Chief Dental Officer has established Oral Health Options Groups to allow for the consideration and development of further interventions for the two most urgent groups at present; namely, children and older people. We are making excellent progress in some key areas. For example, data for five year-old children provides evidence of further significant improvement in respect of the relevant Oral Health Strategy targets.","answerHtml":"Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, access to a Health Service dentist was generally good. As of 31 March 2021, there were 59.8 dentists per 100,000 of the resident population in Northern Ireland, compared to 42.2 in England and 65% of the Northern Ireland population were registered with a practicing health service dentist.
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on capacity within GDS, with dentists currently completing around 59% of their pre-pandemic activity in Q4 2021/22. Practices have largely dealt with those patients experiencing urgent symptoms and many have been offering appointments for check-ups and routine treatment for many months.
Recent easing of Infection Prevention and Control procedures within all health care settings and the introduction of the Rebuilding Support Scheme (RSS) in April 2022 is expected to further increase capacity within practices resulting in improved access. Additional investment has been committed for the first quarter of 2022/23 to further support dental practices, with dental fees being enhanced by 25% as part of the RSS to reflect the ongoing pandemic pressures practices are facing.
However, I do not underestimate the impact that the last two years will have had on the dental health of the population nor the repercussions this will have over the coming years.
My Department is committed to working with the BDA and other organisations to develop further strategies that will mitigate the impact of the pandemic on dental health over time, and build a sustainable, financially viable future for GDS.
The Chief Dental Officer has established Oral Health Options Groups to allow for the consideration and development of further interventions for the two most urgent groups at present; namely, children and older people. We are making excellent progress in some key areas. For example, data for five year-old children provides evidence of further significant improvement in respect of the relevant Oral Health Strategy targets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028096%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363874"}},{"id":"363873","reference":"AQW 28095/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-17","answerBy":"2022-02-01","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps being taken to overcome and reduce the number of health and social care staff absentees.","answerText":"Management and reduction of sickness absence is a priority both for my Department and trust employers. All HSC employers have a duty of care to staff and are committed to promoting staff health and wellbeing and robustly managing sickness absence among our workforce.\n\nEach trust has a comprehensive health and wellbeing strategy for staff that has been co-developed in partnership with Trade Union colleagues. The focus of these strategies are preventative measures that enable good mental, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.\n\nStaff are also supported with a range of free and inclusive initiatives including fast track physio, confidential counselling, Here4U activities, person centred reasonable adjustments and a comprehensive suite of improving working lives opportunities. Each of these proactive measures are designed to improve staff health and wellbeing overall and thus reduce absence.\n\nThe continued roll out of the Vaccination programme, including Booster and Flu Vaccines is also an important tool in reducing absence levels.\n\nTrusts work collaboratively with our regional trade union and HSC colleagues to harmonise our approach to managing absence to ensure consistency in accordance with HSC values. Absence is managed within each Trust at a local level. There are identified HR leads for each directorate, providing regular data and analysis, bespoke advice on cases and where individual sickness absence can’t be sustained, a range of pathways are explored on a case by case basis in accordance with the Regional Absence Framework and local Management of Attendance Protocol.","answerHtml":"Management and reduction of sickness absence is a priority both for my Department and trust employers. All HSC employers have a duty of care to staff and are committed to promoting staff health and wellbeing and robustly managing sickness absence among our workforce.
Each trust has a comprehensive health and wellbeing strategy for staff that has been co-developed in partnership with Trade Union colleagues. The focus of these strategies are preventative measures that enable good mental, emotional, physical and financial wellbeing.
Staff are also supported with a range of free and inclusive initiatives including fast track physio, confidential counselling, Here4U activities, person centred reasonable adjustments and a comprehensive suite of improving working lives opportunities. Each of these proactive measures are designed to improve staff health and wellbeing overall and thus reduce absence.
The continued roll out of the Vaccination programme, including Booster and Flu Vaccines is also an important tool in reducing absence levels.
Trusts work collaboratively with our regional trade union and HSC colleagues to harmonise our approach to managing absence to ensure consistency in accordance with HSC values. Absence is managed within each Trust at a local level. There are identified HR leads for each directorate, providing regular data and analysis, bespoke advice on cases and where individual sickness absence can’t be sustained, a range of pathways are explored on a case by case basis in accordance with the Regional Absence Framework and local Management of Attendance Protocol.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028095%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363873"}},{"id":"363659","reference":"AQW 28029/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-14","answerBy":"2022-01-31","answered":"2022-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to (i) detail how he is working with the Minister of Education to ensure pre-school childcare places for middle-income working parents; and (ii) for his assessment of how the current pre-school childcare place allocation rules are affecting the ability of parents to work.","answerText":"The issue of pre-school places and how they are allocated is not within my remit. The broader issue of accessible and affordable childcare is recognised as key to enabling parents to develop their skills and participate in the workforce and this was highlighted during the recent consultation on the draft Skills Strategy. The Department of Education is leading on the work to develop an Executive Childcare Strategy and my officials are participating on the Strategy Programme Board.","answerHtml":"The issue of pre-school places and how they are allocated is not within my remit. The broader issue of accessible and affordable childcare is recognised as key to enabling parents to develop their skills and participate in the workforce and this was highlighted during the recent consultation on the draft Skills Strategy. The Department of Education is leading on the work to develop an Executive Childcare Strategy and my officials are participating on the Strategy Programme Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028029%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363659"}},{"id":"363658","reference":"AQW 28028/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-14","answerBy":"2022-01-31","answered":"2022-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) the steps he is taking to address the backlog of diabetes patients who are waiting for appointments; (ii) the way in which diabetes care is audited; (iii) the steps being taken to train more health staff in diabetes-specific care; and (iv) how emotional support for diabetes patients has been factored into the Mental Health Strategy.","answerText":"My Department published a Strategic Framework for Diabetes in Northern Ireland in 2016. The Framework, which was developed in partnership with a range of stakeholders, including Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes, included a 3-year action plan which aimed to improve outcomes and services for people living with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.\n\nThe Diabetes Network supports the implementation of the Diabetes Strategic Framework and action plan and provides strategic direction for diabetes treatment and care in Northern Ireland. It brings together people living with diabetes, carers, and health and social care professionals working in partnership with Diabetes UK. The Network aims to enable people living with diabetes and frontline experts in diabetes care to work in partnership to co-design services for future diabetes care and improvements in the long term health for people living with the condition.\n\nThe COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges for the planning and delivery of health and social care services, including services for people living with diabetes. I recognise the impact that this has had on patients across Northern Ireland who have been affected by this.\n\nThe pandemic has also meant changes to how diabetes services are delivered. For example, there has been more use of virtual clinics, zoom consultations, or follow up via telephone, with urgent face to face contacts where necessary; new phlebotomy hubs were established, blood clinics and “drive through” clinics also put in place for bloods taken and structured diabetes education programmes were delivered online with educators trained to deliver more services remotely.\n\nTo support access to diabetes services and appointments, the Diabetes Network secured funding to provide IT hardware to support virtual consultations across all HSC Trusts. This equipment has enabled access to on-line provision to support a backlog of diabetes appointments amid COVID pressures.\n\nThe Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP), delivered by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust in conjunction with the Public Health Agency, was paused in March 2020 with a risk management approach adopted so that the most urgent patients were issued appointments during 2020/21. Those at lowest risk of diabetic eye disease were placed on a 24 rather than 12 month recall in line with other programmes in the UK.\n\nUnfortunately due to restrictions associated with reducing COVID risk, the programme continues to run at a significantly reduced capacity within screening clinics and there remains a backlog of patients requiring screening appointments. The programme is maximising appointment capacity through overtime, skill mix, additional in-year funding and other measures. The PHA continues to work with Belfast HSC Trust to develop a recovery plan to address this.\n\nPrimary care teams have continued to look after their patients with diabetes throughout the pandemic. GPs have continued to diagnose newly diabetic patients and treat them appropriately. Consultations have been carried out face to face as well as by telephone. Specific diabetes services have continued including for example, podiatry, blood monitoring and medication review. Primary care teams have also been immunising diabetic patients against COVID -19 and Influenza.\n\n(ii) The Diabetes Network is supportive of an audit in respect of diabetes in Northern Ireland. Network representatives met with representatives from Diabetes UK in July 2021 to discuss the National Diabetes Audit and data requirements.\n\nThe Diabetes Network will continue to work with Diabetes UK to scope and consider what is possible to support an audit approach in Northern Ireland. This will include consideration of what form such an audit would take.\n\nA key area of work being progressed by the Network through its ‘New models of care’ work stream, is to develop a standardised pathway for Type 2 diabetes in Northern Ireland and ensure that Type 2 treatment matches best practice as well as developing and supporting the diabetes workforce. The Network is also working with my Department to inform a Programme of Care Workforce Review for Diabetes. A working group has been established to consider the preliminary work required before such a review can be undertaken. This includes service mapping and the development of the diabetes pathway. It is anticipated that the Workforce Review will commence in the next financial year, subject to the provision of the required preparatory work.\n\nI am conscious of the vital role that mental health services perform for those who may be suffering from physical ill health, including those who have been diagnosed with diabetes. The new 10 year Mental Health Strategy is person-centred and provides a vision that people will receive care and treatment when they need it. This includes people with diabetes who have mental health needs. Action 22 of the Mental Health Strategy highlights the creation of effective pathways from physical healthcare into mental health services. This is to ensure those with a physical illness, such as diabetes, can receive the support that they require for any resultant mental ill health.\n\nMoving forward, the strategy outlines the aim that those with physical health problems that lead to mental ill health will be provided with the care and treatment they need. In practice, this would include further integration of psychology in multi-disciplinary teams, to ensure that psychological support is mainstreamed across physical health. It also includes training those working in physical health teams where mental ill health is common among clients, in identifying mental health needs and responding to such needs.","answerHtml":"My Department published a Strategic Framework for Diabetes in Northern Ireland in 2016. The Framework, which was developed in partnership with a range of stakeholders, including Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes, included a 3-year action plan which aimed to improve outcomes and services for people living with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
The Diabetes Network supports the implementation of the Diabetes Strategic Framework and action plan and provides strategic direction for diabetes treatment and care in Northern Ireland. It brings together people living with diabetes, carers, and health and social care professionals working in partnership with Diabetes UK. The Network aims to enable people living with diabetes and frontline experts in diabetes care to work in partnership to co-design services for future diabetes care and improvements in the long term health for people living with the condition.
The COVID-19 pandemic has posed unprecedented challenges for the planning and delivery of health and social care services, including services for people living with diabetes. I recognise the impact that this has had on patients across Northern Ireland who have been affected by this.
The pandemic has also meant changes to how diabetes services are delivered. For example, there has been more use of virtual clinics, zoom consultations, or follow up via telephone, with urgent face to face contacts where necessary; new phlebotomy hubs were established, blood clinics and “drive through” clinics also put in place for bloods taken and structured diabetes education programmes were delivered online with educators trained to deliver more services remotely.
To support access to diabetes services and appointments, the Diabetes Network secured funding to provide IT hardware to support virtual consultations across all HSC Trusts. This equipment has enabled access to on-line provision to support a backlog of diabetes appointments amid COVID pressures.
The Diabetic Eye Screening Programme (DESP), delivered by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust in conjunction with the Public Health Agency, was paused in March 2020 with a risk management approach adopted so that the most urgent patients were issued appointments during 2020/21. Those at lowest risk of diabetic eye disease were placed on a 24 rather than 12 month recall in line with other programmes in the UK.
Unfortunately due to restrictions associated with reducing COVID risk, the programme continues to run at a significantly reduced capacity within screening clinics and there remains a backlog of patients requiring screening appointments. The programme is maximising appointment capacity through overtime, skill mix, additional in-year funding and other measures. The PHA continues to work with Belfast HSC Trust to develop a recovery plan to address this.
Primary care teams have continued to look after their patients with diabetes throughout the pandemic. GPs have continued to diagnose newly diabetic patients and treat them appropriately. Consultations have been carried out face to face as well as by telephone. Specific diabetes services have continued including for example, podiatry, blood monitoring and medication review. Primary care teams have also been immunising diabetic patients against COVID -19 and Influenza.
(ii) The Diabetes Network is supportive of an audit in respect of diabetes in Northern Ireland. Network representatives met with representatives from Diabetes UK in July 2021 to discuss the National Diabetes Audit and data requirements.
The Diabetes Network will continue to work with Diabetes UK to scope and consider what is possible to support an audit approach in Northern Ireland. This will include consideration of what form such an audit would take.
A key area of work being progressed by the Network through its ‘New models of care’ work stream, is to develop a standardised pathway for Type 2 diabetes in Northern Ireland and ensure that Type 2 treatment matches best practice as well as developing and supporting the diabetes workforce. The Network is also working with my Department to inform a Programme of Care Workforce Review for Diabetes. A working group has been established to consider the preliminary work required before such a review can be undertaken. This includes service mapping and the development of the diabetes pathway. It is anticipated that the Workforce Review will commence in the next financial year, subject to the provision of the required preparatory work.
I am conscious of the vital role that mental health services perform for those who may be suffering from physical ill health, including those who have been diagnosed with diabetes. The new 10 year Mental Health Strategy is person-centred and provides a vision that people will receive care and treatment when they need it. This includes people with diabetes who have mental health needs. Action 22 of the Mental Health Strategy highlights the creation of effective pathways from physical healthcare into mental health services. This is to ensure those with a physical illness, such as diabetes, can receive the support that they require for any resultant mental ill health.
Moving forward, the strategy outlines the aim that those with physical health problems that lead to mental ill health will be provided with the care and treatment they need. In practice, this would include further integration of psychology in multi-disciplinary teams, to ensure that psychological support is mainstreamed across physical health. It also includes training those working in physical health teams where mental ill health is common among clients, in identifying mental health needs and responding to such needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028028%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363658"}},{"id":"363657","reference":"AQW 28027/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-14","answerBy":"2022-01-31","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) which children are prioritised when allocating pre-school places; (ii) whether she has plans to create more places for children who are not prioritised; and (iii) how the current pre-school place allocation rules are enabling middle-income working parents to continue to work.","answerText":"The Department’s aim, in providing funded pre-school education, is to provide a pre-school education place for every child in their immediate pre-school year whose parents want it. This has been achieved in each of the last eight academic years.\n\nAdmissions criteria are applied by pre-school settings in the event that they are over-subscribed – that is, if they receive more applications than they have places available. Not all pre-school providers will be over-subscribed during the pre-school admissions process. All admissions criteria are set by pre-school providers themselves, taking into account guidance provided by the Department, although legislation requires that the top criterion for each pre-school provider prioritises children from socially disadvantaged circumstances.\n\nIt is the responsibility of the Education Authority (EA) Pre-School Education Group (PEG) to ensure there is sufficient pre-school provision in local areas. The EA PEG has advised that currently there are sufficient pre-school places to provide a funded place for every child in their immediate pre-school year whose parents want it, therefore there are no plans to fund additional places at present. The position will be kept under review by the EA PEG to ensure that this remains the case going forward, and additional funded places will be made available if necessary to ensure sufficient provision overall.\n\nWhile pre-school provision is focussed on the educational needs of the child, I appreciate the pressures which working parents face and acknowledge that, for some, pre-school provision is an important factor when considering their childcare needs. The provision of a funded place for every child whose parents want it, benefits all families in this regard. However, its contribution to meeting overall childcare needs is partial. My Department is leading on the development of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy, the aims of which are to improve child development and promote parental employment more broadly. A draft Strategy will be brought to the Executive in due course, however, the ultimate timeline for implementation of the Strategy will require Executive agreement on significant policy decisions, including a commitment to new and sustained funding.","answerHtml":"The Department’s aim, in providing funded pre-school education, is to provide a pre-school education place for every child in their immediate pre-school year whose parents want it. This has been achieved in each of the last eight academic years.
Admissions criteria are applied by pre-school settings in the event that they are over-subscribed – that is, if they receive more applications than they have places available. Not all pre-school providers will be over-subscribed during the pre-school admissions process. All admissions criteria are set by pre-school providers themselves, taking into account guidance provided by the Department, although legislation requires that the top criterion for each pre-school provider prioritises children from socially disadvantaged circumstances.
It is the responsibility of the Education Authority (EA) Pre-School Education Group (PEG) to ensure there is sufficient pre-school provision in local areas. The EA PEG has advised that currently there are sufficient pre-school places to provide a funded place for every child in their immediate pre-school year whose parents want it, therefore there are no plans to fund additional places at present. The position will be kept under review by the EA PEG to ensure that this remains the case going forward, and additional funded places will be made available if necessary to ensure sufficient provision overall.
While pre-school provision is focussed on the educational needs of the child, I appreciate the pressures which working parents face and acknowledge that, for some, pre-school provision is an important factor when considering their childcare needs. The provision of a funded place for every child whose parents want it, benefits all families in this regard. However, its contribution to meeting overall childcare needs is partial. My Department is leading on the development of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy, the aims of which are to improve child development and promote parental employment more broadly. A draft Strategy will be brought to the Executive in due course, however, the ultimate timeline for implementation of the Strategy will require Executive agreement on significant policy decisions, including a commitment to new and sustained funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2028027%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363657"}},{"id":"363397","reference":"AQW 27952/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what plans he has to carry out a metastatic breast cancer audit, similar to that being carried out in England and Wales, and planned in Scotland; (ii) for his assessment of the benefits such an audit could bring to patients; and (iii) how this will fit into the Cancer Strategy.","answerText":"Unfortunately it is not possible for Northern Ireland (NI) to begin conducting Metastatic Breast Cancer Audits because we do not currently have the required legislation regarding the secondary use of data. In addition, NI Health Trusts do not currently collect and organise the necessary data.\n\nCurrently, NI cancer performance standards apply to patients with a new diagnosis of cancer only. Consequently, much of our information system is geared towards tracking and collating information on new patients and information on the incidence and prevalence of patients with metastatic disease is limited. As cancer survival has improved it has become increasingly important to understand the diagnostic, treatment and support needs of patients with metastatic disease or secondary cancer and we can see the potential benefits of such an audit for these patients. When we are in a position to carry out these audits we can identify and monitor where people with secondary cancer are and what the primary cancer was in order to ensure we are providing equitable cancer care.\n\nThe new NI 10 year Cancer Strategy identifies the need for developments in data collection, coordination and application and makes a commitment to improved effective data collection. It highlights the need to ensure that waiting time standards are in place for all cancers, to include secondary cancers. In doing so, it underlines the requirement to record and report information on patients with secondary cancer.\n\nIn addition a commitment has been made to carry out a review of the use of data in cancer healthcare, to ensure that the data collected is used to deliver better cancer care for every patient including those with secondary breast cancer.","answerHtml":"Unfortunately it is not possible for Northern Ireland (NI) to begin conducting Metastatic Breast Cancer Audits because we do not currently have the required legislation regarding the secondary use of data. In addition, NI Health Trusts do not currently collect and organise the necessary data.
Currently, NI cancer performance standards apply to patients with a new diagnosis of cancer only. Consequently, much of our information system is geared towards tracking and collating information on new patients and information on the incidence and prevalence of patients with metastatic disease is limited. As cancer survival has improved it has become increasingly important to understand the diagnostic, treatment and support needs of patients with metastatic disease or secondary cancer and we can see the potential benefits of such an audit for these patients. When we are in a position to carry out these audits we can identify and monitor where people with secondary cancer are and what the primary cancer was in order to ensure we are providing equitable cancer care.
The new NI 10 year Cancer Strategy identifies the need for developments in data collection, coordination and application and makes a commitment to improved effective data collection. It highlights the need to ensure that waiting time standards are in place for all cancers, to include secondary cancers. In doing so, it underlines the requirement to record and report information on patients with secondary cancer.
In addition a commitment has been made to carry out a review of the use of data in cancer healthcare, to ensure that the data collected is used to deliver better cancer care for every patient including those with secondary breast cancer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027952%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363397","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363397"}},{"id":"363396","reference":"AQW 27951/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-02-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the measures in place, and planned, to (i) remove the cancer treatment backlog; and (ii) ensure patients have timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment.","answerText":"In June 2021, I published the Cancer Recovery Plan and Elective Care Framework in order to tackle cancer treatment backlogs. However, services remain under considerable and sustained pressure since the publication of the plans.\n\nAccess to the cancer diagnosis and treatment service continues to remain under considerable strain. Repeated COVID surges combined with unprecedented unscheduled care pressures have led to staff redeployment, a shortage of both inpatient and critical care beds and limited access to theatres.\n\nDespite these pressures we do our utmost to ensure that patients have timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment through the following means:\n\nAdditional investment in imaging to include 10 additional CT sessions per week and additional radiographer contingency.\n\n£5m additional investment to support enhanced staffing levels and skills mix within oncology and haematology services.\n\nRecruitment of 13 additional cancer trackers to help ensure effective tracking and safety netting of patients.\n\nInvestment in qFIT testing to enable early detection of colorectal cancer.\n\nInvestment in cancer information and support services within Trusts.\n\nInvestment in pathology services to include: funding to establish a Single Integrated Haematological reporting service and the roll out of digital pathology to optimise reporting capacity.\n\nInvestment to in additional screening sessions to address backlogs in cancer screening programmes.\n\nThe cancer plan did not cover outpatients or surgery, which were included within the Elective Care Framework. The HSC has been allocated £90m non-recurrent funding for elective waiting lists in 2021/22, a significant proportion of which is being utilised to address backlogs within cancer. This funding is being utilised to secure additional HSC capacity and, where necessary, independent sector capacity to assess and treat patients.\n\nFunding is being targeted initially at those patients with the highest clinical priority including cancer and other time critical conditions. In addition to securing capacity to see and treat patients in independent sector facilities both within Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland, a number of private healthcare providers are providing in-sourcing services whereby privately recruited teams of clinicians are providing services for HSC patients using available HSC infrastructure.\n\nIn-sourcing is currently being used for a range of services including endoscopy and urology cystoscopy procedures and plans are in place to expand this to other procedures. A regional endoscopy pilot is about to get underway in Lagan Valley Hospital, South Eastern Trust. The pilot will offer an additional 20 endoscopy lists per week with the potential to increase up to 30 subject to additional funding and staffing which would substantially reduce the demand / capacity gap for endoscopy. Other similar projects aimed at increasing day case capacity on non-acute sites are currently under exploration.\n\nFinally, in addition to this the DOH invested £10m through a cancer charities fund. This investment, which will cover a 3 year period, is supporting charities to deliver projects that align to the aims of the recovery plan and has led to significant investment in areas such as public awareness of signs and symptoms, prehabilitation and palliative care.","answerHtml":"In June 2021, I published the Cancer Recovery Plan and Elective Care Framework in order to tackle cancer treatment backlogs. However, services remain under considerable and sustained pressure since the publication of the plans.
Access to the cancer diagnosis and treatment service continues to remain under considerable strain. Repeated COVID surges combined with unprecedented unscheduled care pressures have led to staff redeployment, a shortage of both inpatient and critical care beds and limited access to theatres.
Despite these pressures we do our utmost to ensure that patients have timely access to cancer diagnosis and treatment through the following means:
Additional investment in imaging to include 10 additional CT sessions per week and additional radiographer contingency.
£5m additional investment to support enhanced staffing levels and skills mix within oncology and haematology services.
Recruitment of 13 additional cancer trackers to help ensure effective tracking and safety netting of patients.
Investment in qFIT testing to enable early detection of colorectal cancer.
Investment in cancer information and support services within Trusts.
Investment in pathology services to include: funding to establish a Single Integrated Haematological reporting service and the roll out of digital pathology to optimise reporting capacity.
Investment to in additional screening sessions to address backlogs in cancer screening programmes.
The cancer plan did not cover outpatients or surgery, which were included within the Elective Care Framework. The HSC has been allocated £90m non-recurrent funding for elective waiting lists in 2021/22, a significant proportion of which is being utilised to address backlogs within cancer. This funding is being utilised to secure additional HSC capacity and, where necessary, independent sector capacity to assess and treat patients.
Funding is being targeted initially at those patients with the highest clinical priority including cancer and other time critical conditions. In addition to securing capacity to see and treat patients in independent sector facilities both within Northern Ireland and in the Republic of Ireland, a number of private healthcare providers are providing in-sourcing services whereby privately recruited teams of clinicians are providing services for HSC patients using available HSC infrastructure.
In-sourcing is currently being used for a range of services including endoscopy and urology cystoscopy procedures and plans are in place to expand this to other procedures. A regional endoscopy pilot is about to get underway in Lagan Valley Hospital, South Eastern Trust. The pilot will offer an additional 20 endoscopy lists per week with the potential to increase up to 30 subject to additional funding and staffing which would substantially reduce the demand / capacity gap for endoscopy. Other similar projects aimed at increasing day case capacity on non-acute sites are currently under exploration.
Finally, in addition to this the DOH invested £10m through a cancer charities fund. This investment, which will cover a 3 year period, is supporting charities to deliver projects that align to the aims of the recovery plan and has led to significant investment in areas such as public awareness of signs and symptoms, prehabilitation and palliative care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027951%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363396"}},{"id":"363395","reference":"AQW 27950/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in reference to recently published reports commissioned by her Department, for her assessment of (i) electric vehicle infrastructure; (ii) electric vehicle sales; and (iii) the growth and expansion of each.","answerText":"In leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy, my Department commissioned four research projects which I am pleased to have been able to recently publish. The Energy Strategy includes actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener, transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publicly available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach that is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.\n\nYou will be aware, I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry, and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. In establishing this Task-Force, I recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable, public, electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence to users of ultra-low emission vehicles and improving connectivity across the North.\n\nThe electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in the North. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.\n\nESB has completed a replacement programme in November 2021 to replace 30 AC Fast charge posts (60 charge points) including 1 Rapid charger to upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points and has received very positive feedback. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.\n\nESB recently announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available.\n\nThe latest statistics from DVLA/DfT show that the number of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) registered for the first time in Northern Ireland has increased each year to 2020. That trend has continued with 2,847 new ultra-low emission vehicles registered in the first three quarters of 2021. This demonstrates a significant increase in uptake and is an encouraging sign as we make the transition to 2030 when the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles will be introduced.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities in GB-NI for 2021/22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. My Department has been engaging with the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS) to ensure the scheme can be accessed by councils in the North. Concession agreements may form part of the arrangements between local councils and charge point operators. The EST held a workshop last year with local councils here to provide information about the ORCS scheme and has indicated its intention to hold further events to support councils in Northern Ireland interested in applying to the scheme. My Department will also work in an advisory capacity with councils that wish to apply.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by The Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and it continues to provide a broad range of funding in GB-NI including Plug-in grant for cars, vans, taxis and motorcycles including the provision of grants for home, work and on-street residential charging infrastructure. I have met with British Government Ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.\n\nDue to the opportunities for grants and funding for home charging, and the newly upgraded public charge network, I look forward to more members of the public seeing the incentives for ultra-low emission vehicle purchases.","answerHtml":"In leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy, my Department commissioned four research projects which I am pleased to have been able to recently publish. The Energy Strategy includes actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener, transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publicly available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach that is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.
You will be aware, I have established an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force bringing together representatives from government, consumers, energy providers, industry, and EV drivers to consider our EV Infrastructure requirements and to help set out a clear action plan by autumn 2022 to deliver a fit for purpose, modern EV charging network. In developing its Action Plan the Task-Force will consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. In establishing this Task-Force, I recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable, public, electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence to users of ultra-low emission vehicles and improving connectivity across the North.
The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in the North. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.
ESB has completed a replacement programme in November 2021 to replace 30 AC Fast charge posts (60 charge points) including 1 Rapid charger to upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points and has received very positive feedback. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.
ESB recently announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available.
The latest statistics from DVLA/DfT show that the number of ultra-low emission vehicles (ULEVs) registered for the first time in Northern Ireland has increased each year to 2020. That trend has continued with 2,847 new ultra-low emission vehicles registered in the first three quarters of 2021. This demonstrates a significant increase in uptake and is an encouraging sign as we make the transition to 2030 when the ban on the sale of new petrol and diesel vehicles will be introduced.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities in GB-NI for 2021/22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. My Department has been engaging with the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS) to ensure the scheme can be accessed by councils in the North. Concession agreements may form part of the arrangements between local councils and charge point operators. The EST held a workshop last year with local councils here to provide information about the ORCS scheme and has indicated its intention to hold further events to support councils in Northern Ireland interested in applying to the scheme. My Department will also work in an advisory capacity with councils that wish to apply.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by The Office of Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and it continues to provide a broad range of funding in GB-NI including Plug-in grant for cars, vans, taxis and motorcycles including the provision of grants for home, work and on-street residential charging infrastructure. I have met with British Government Ministers to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.
Due to the opportunities for grants and funding for home charging, and the newly upgraded public charge network, I look forward to more members of the public seeing the incentives for ultra-low emission vehicle purchases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027950%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363395","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363395"}},{"id":"363394","reference":"AQW 27949/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the challenges affecting the pig industry; and the measures he is taking to overcome them.","answerText":"Over the last number of months, I have met on a regular basis with pig sector representatives and industry stakeholders to discuss the challenges and operational difficulties they are currently facing. I have also discussed potential solutions that could help mitigate the situation and asked them to formulate a plan that would rebalance production and processing, and bring stability to the sector.\n\nA shortage of labour across the food processing industry has caused difficulties, and is being felt heavily at farm level. Reduced processing capacity in the pig sector has resulting in a rollover of pigs each week and a backlog of pigs building up on farms. This has led to increased slaughter weights and price penalties for overweight pigs that have fallen out of specification. In addition producers have to keep pigs for longer resulting in higher feed bills. The increasing numbers of backlogged pigs on farm and associated costs has resulted in a very stressful situation for farmers and their families. I have asked officials to monitor the situation closely and industry representatives are keeping me informed regularly.\n\nPrior to Christmas, the main NI pig processing companies introduced measures to reduce the number of backlogged pigs on farms, but this was at a cost to the farmers involved. These measures seemed to address the problems at the time but there is anecdotal evidence that backlogs are building up again due to reduced throughput over the Christmas / New Year period and staff absences due to Covid-19. The average slaughter weights have also increased recently resulting in significant price penalties for overweight pigs that are outside the market specification.\n\nIn late 2021 following pressure from myself and others, the UK Government announced temporary worker visas for up to 800 butchers for the pig sector. These schemes have now closed for applications and there has not been time to ascertain whether or not they made any significant difference in addressing the labour issues in the short term. Immigration Policy is a reserved matter but I will continue to engage extensively with Whitehall to help mitigate the problem.\n\nProducers have also faced escalating feed costs over recent months, coupled with the significant downward price pressures on the pigmeat market. The latter is caused by a complex mix of global issues leading to an oversupply situation that will require a period of price correction. There is a sense that market adjustment is needed and recent evidence indicates that pig prices in the EU have bottomed out so this may be an indication that world pig prices are beginning to stabilise.\n\nI do not believe that any of the challenges affecting the pig sector will be resolved easily. I have asked industry representatives to come forward with a solution as part of a longer term plan to align production and processing capacity to restore stability. I intend to meet again with stakeholders in the near future and look forward to hearing their proposals.","answerHtml":"Over the last number of months, I have met on a regular basis with pig sector representatives and industry stakeholders to discuss the challenges and operational difficulties they are currently facing. I have also discussed potential solutions that could help mitigate the situation and asked them to formulate a plan that would rebalance production and processing, and bring stability to the sector.
A shortage of labour across the food processing industry has caused difficulties, and is being felt heavily at farm level. Reduced processing capacity in the pig sector has resulting in a rollover of pigs each week and a backlog of pigs building up on farms. This has led to increased slaughter weights and price penalties for overweight pigs that have fallen out of specification. In addition producers have to keep pigs for longer resulting in higher feed bills. The increasing numbers of backlogged pigs on farm and associated costs has resulted in a very stressful situation for farmers and their families. I have asked officials to monitor the situation closely and industry representatives are keeping me informed regularly.
Prior to Christmas, the main NI pig processing companies introduced measures to reduce the number of backlogged pigs on farms, but this was at a cost to the farmers involved. These measures seemed to address the problems at the time but there is anecdotal evidence that backlogs are building up again due to reduced throughput over the Christmas / New Year period and staff absences due to Covid-19. The average slaughter weights have also increased recently resulting in significant price penalties for overweight pigs that are outside the market specification.
In late 2021 following pressure from myself and others, the UK Government announced temporary worker visas for up to 800 butchers for the pig sector. These schemes have now closed for applications and there has not been time to ascertain whether or not they made any significant difference in addressing the labour issues in the short term. Immigration Policy is a reserved matter but I will continue to engage extensively with Whitehall to help mitigate the problem.
Producers have also faced escalating feed costs over recent months, coupled with the significant downward price pressures on the pigmeat market. The latter is caused by a complex mix of global issues leading to an oversupply situation that will require a period of price correction. There is a sense that market adjustment is needed and recent evidence indicates that pig prices in the EU have bottomed out so this may be an indication that world pig prices are beginning to stabilise.
I do not believe that any of the challenges affecting the pig sector will be resolved easily. I have asked industry representatives to come forward with a solution as part of a longer term plan to align production and processing capacity to restore stability. I intend to meet again with stakeholders in the near future and look forward to hearing their proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027949%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363394","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363394"}},{"id":"363393","reference":"AQW 27948/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-13","answerBy":"2022-01-28","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of staff shortages within the agri-food industry; (ii) to detail the observed and anticipated repercussions; and (iii) to detail the steps being taken to address staff shortages.","answerText":"There are significant staff shortages within our agri-food processing sector and this is an issue of concern given the importance of this industry to the economy and to the farmers who supply it.\n\nEven though employers have offered competitive wages and other incentives, they have struggled to recruit all the workers they need from the domestic workforce. As a result, our agri-food industry has for a significant period of time relied on migrant workers to fill this labour gap. However, access to migrant labour is now limited to skilled jobs that meet set salary levels and English language requirements. Industry representatives have indicated that the new UK Immigration System is the main catalyst for the current shortages.\n\nEngagement with industry indicates that there continues to be sizeable labour shortages, particular with respect to the number of slaughter plant operatives and butchers in our abattoirs and processing plants.\n\nThese labour shortages are causing difficulties across the food processing sector, however, it is the pig sector that is reporting the most serious difficulties with processing capacity, resulting in a rollover of pigs on farms each week. This is leading to slaughter weights increasing and producers incurring price penalties for overweight pigs which fall out of specification and finding they have to keep pigs for longer which results in higher feed bills. Officials are assessing the impact of this on the animals and the producers. To date, no livestock reared to supply the food system in Northern Ireland has been culled and incinerated as a result of these labour shortages.\n\nAt the end of 2021, the main NI pig processing companies took steps to address the backlog of pigs on farms and whilst the situation remains challenging, there is also a sense that market adjustment was needed because along with labour shortages the pig sector faced a range of other challenges including but not limited too; increased feed costs, a global fall in the price for pigs along with an increase in supply. Recent evidence indicates that pig prices in the EU have bottomed out and this may be an indication that world pig prices are beginning to stabilise. There is no doubt that this has been a very stressful situation for farmers and their families. I am continuing to keep a close eye on the situation and industry representatives are keeping me informed regularly.\n\nIn late 2021 the UK Government, following pressure from myself and others, announced temporary worker visas for up to 800 butchers for the pig sector following similar announcements for the seasonal poultry and HGV sectors. All these schemes have now closed for applications. There has not been time to ascertain whether or not these temporary schemes made any significant difference in addressing the labour shortage challenges in the short term. What is clear however, is these short term temporary schemes will do nothing to alleviate the agri-food staffing problem in the medium to longer-term.\n\nThis is a worrying situation and I continue to take all steps within my power to help mitigate the problem. A significant aspect of this is my continued and extensive engagement with Whitehall given that Immigration Policy is a reserved matter. I am also ensuring my officials continue to engage extensively with stakeholders and to work with them to overcoming these challenges. DAERA continue to prepare for the longer term by investing in training and education as well as research and innovation.","answerHtml":"There are significant staff shortages within our agri-food processing sector and this is an issue of concern given the importance of this industry to the economy and to the farmers who supply it.
Even though employers have offered competitive wages and other incentives, they have struggled to recruit all the workers they need from the domestic workforce. As a result, our agri-food industry has for a significant period of time relied on migrant workers to fill this labour gap. However, access to migrant labour is now limited to skilled jobs that meet set salary levels and English language requirements. Industry representatives have indicated that the new UK Immigration System is the main catalyst for the current shortages.
Engagement with industry indicates that there continues to be sizeable labour shortages, particular with respect to the number of slaughter plant operatives and butchers in our abattoirs and processing plants.
These labour shortages are causing difficulties across the food processing sector, however, it is the pig sector that is reporting the most serious difficulties with processing capacity, resulting in a rollover of pigs on farms each week. This is leading to slaughter weights increasing and producers incurring price penalties for overweight pigs which fall out of specification and finding they have to keep pigs for longer which results in higher feed bills. Officials are assessing the impact of this on the animals and the producers. To date, no livestock reared to supply the food system in Northern Ireland has been culled and incinerated as a result of these labour shortages.
At the end of 2021, the main NI pig processing companies took steps to address the backlog of pigs on farms and whilst the situation remains challenging, there is also a sense that market adjustment was needed because along with labour shortages the pig sector faced a range of other challenges including but not limited too; increased feed costs, a global fall in the price for pigs along with an increase in supply. Recent evidence indicates that pig prices in the EU have bottomed out and this may be an indication that world pig prices are beginning to stabilise. There is no doubt that this has been a very stressful situation for farmers and their families. I am continuing to keep a close eye on the situation and industry representatives are keeping me informed regularly.
In late 2021 the UK Government, following pressure from myself and others, announced temporary worker visas for up to 800 butchers for the pig sector following similar announcements for the seasonal poultry and HGV sectors. All these schemes have now closed for applications. There has not been time to ascertain whether or not these temporary schemes made any significant difference in addressing the labour shortage challenges in the short term. What is clear however, is these short term temporary schemes will do nothing to alleviate the agri-food staffing problem in the medium to longer-term.
This is a worrying situation and I continue to take all steps within my power to help mitigate the problem. A significant aspect of this is my continued and extensive engagement with Whitehall given that Immigration Policy is a reserved matter. I am also ensuring my officials continue to engage extensively with stakeholders and to work with them to overcoming these challenges. DAERA continue to prepare for the longer term by investing in training and education as well as research and innovation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027948%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363393"}},{"id":"363307","reference":"AQW 27881/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) what consideration she has given to providing universally free, nutritious school meals; and (ii) for her assessment of the potential impact on (a) children’s health, and (b) working families in poverty who only just exceed the current threshold for free school meals.","answerText":"The Department has commenced its Review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of the review is to ensure that free school meals and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society, including working families in poverty. The review will also consider options for universal free school meal provision for certain year groups or all pupils.\n\nThe Department met with key stakeholders in December 2021 and the above issues were highlighted. The Review is due to conclude in summer 2023.","answerHtml":"The Department has commenced its Review of Free School Meals and Uniform Grant eligibility criteria. The purpose of the review is to ensure that free school meals and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society, including working families in poverty. The review will also consider options for universal free school meal provision for certain year groups or all pupils.
The Department met with key stakeholders in December 2021 and the above issues were highlighted. The Review is due to conclude in summer 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027881%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363307"}},{"id":"363306","reference":"AQW 27880/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of staff shortages within her Department and its arms-length bodies; (ii) to detail the areas and bodies most affected; and (iii) to detail the steps being taken to address these shortages.","answerText":"(i)The Department currently has a vacancy rate of just under 10% – this is in the context of having 3123 staff in post. The resource budget allocated to the Executive has been far from sufficient to meet our needs and there is no doubt that the Department could do more if all vacancies were both affordable and filled. That is not the case though and, like other Ministers, I have had to make some very difficult decisions to live within budgets which clearly impacts on service position. This is a particular challenge for my Department given the significant uplift in capital funding with minimal increase to the resource budget. The Department will, however, continue to maximise the resource available.\n\nThe Department’s arm’s length bodies, including Translink and NI Water, have an on-going need to replace staff who leave the organisation for various reasons, primarily retirements.\n\n(ii)From a Departmental perspective, the majority of the Department’s vacancies are within our Roads and Rivers Group. The roles most affected in Translink include bus drivers and shunters.\n\n(iii)My officials continue to work closely with colleagues in NICS HR to fill affordable vacancies as quickly as possible.\n\nTranslink and NIW have comprehensive Resourcing Plans and work to best practice recruitment activities. Both ALBs will continue to fill the vast majority of vacancies to meet business requirements.","answerHtml":"(i)The Department currently has a vacancy rate of just under 10% – this is in the context of having 3123 staff in post. The resource budget allocated to the Executive has been far from sufficient to meet our needs and there is no doubt that the Department could do more if all vacancies were both affordable and filled. That is not the case though and, like other Ministers, I have had to make some very difficult decisions to live within budgets which clearly impacts on service position. This is a particular challenge for my Department given the significant uplift in capital funding with minimal increase to the resource budget. The Department will, however, continue to maximise the resource available.
The Department’s arm’s length bodies, including Translink and NI Water, have an on-going need to replace staff who leave the organisation for various reasons, primarily retirements.
(ii)From a Departmental perspective, the majority of the Department’s vacancies are within our Roads and Rivers Group. The roles most affected in Translink include bus drivers and shunters.
(iii)My officials continue to work closely with colleagues in NICS HR to fill affordable vacancies as quickly as possible.
Translink and NIW have comprehensive Resourcing Plans and work to best practice recruitment activities. Both ALBs will continue to fill the vast majority of vacancies to meet business requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027880%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363306"}},{"id":"363305","reference":"AQW 27879/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what consideration she has given to introducing a basic income for artists, given the impact of the pandemic on the sector.","answerText":"The report of the Culture, Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce made reference to this issue in its chapter relating to the development of a new strategy for culture, arts and heritage. The experience of the South’s universal basic income pilot scheme, and the outcomes achieved, will be considered in the context of the work associated with that future strategy.","answerHtml":"The report of the Culture, Arts and Heritage Recovery Taskforce made reference to this issue in its chapter relating to the development of a new strategy for culture, arts and heritage. The experience of the South’s universal basic income pilot scheme, and the outcomes achieved, will be considered in the context of the work associated with that future strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027879%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363305"}},{"id":"363304","reference":"AQW 27878/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-12","answerBy":"2022-01-27","answered":"2022-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for his assessment of staff shortages in the NI Civil Service; and (ii) to detail the steps being taken to address these shortages.","answerText":"Each Civil Service department is responsible for managing its resources – both financial and staff. Each department determines its individual workforce needs and is responsible for ensuring that any additional staffing resources are affordable. Therefore, details of the total vacancies in each department is not held centrally by the Department of Finance.\n\nWhen a department identifies a vacancy it needs filled, the request is referred to NICSHR in the Department of Finance to initiate the process to fill the post. Where there is an existing live competition merit list, the vacancy is filled from this available supply.\n\nIn November 2020, all Civil Service departments conducted a root and branch review of their staff establishments, confirming a total of c4,500 affordable additional posts they needed filled. At end of December, NICSHR has filled 4,509 posts since November 2020.\n\nAt the end of December 2021, NICSHR was managing an active vacancy caseload of 2,859 (compared to over 4,500 as at November 2020). Of this caseload, 926 (32%) have start dates agreed / are progressing through offer process.\n\nApproximately 69% (1,971 of the active vacancy caseload falls into the Civil Service General Service occupation group, and 35% (685) have start dates agreed / progressing through offer stage and a further 30% (c600) to follow suit in the next few weeks. Work is underway to finalise the General Service recruitment plan for 2022-23.\n\nThe remaining 31% (888) of the active vacancy caseload falls across a wide variety of professional / technical / specialist roles in the Civil Service, and 27% (241) have start dates agreed / are progressing through offer process. Recruitment for the remaining job roles continues on an ongoing basis, based on department’s forecast needs.\n\nIn 2019 the Civil Service sought to externally recruit at scale for above entry level grades for General Service positions. This has delivered new talent into the workforce as well as see many existing Civil Servants achieve promotion. For example during the 2020-21 financial year these open recruitment campaigns saw 840 new entrants join the Civil Service. This trend is continuing in the current financial year, with new entrants currently being on boarded from the external recruitment campaigns for General Service positions at the two Executive Officer grades.\n\nNICSHR is working at pace with our service provider, HRConnect, to reduce any recruitment backlog that has arisen as a consequence of the Covid pandemic.","answerHtml":"Each Civil Service department is responsible for managing its resources – both financial and staff. Each department determines its individual workforce needs and is responsible for ensuring that any additional staffing resources are affordable. Therefore, details of the total vacancies in each department is not held centrally by the Department of Finance.
When a department identifies a vacancy it needs filled, the request is referred to NICSHR in the Department of Finance to initiate the process to fill the post. Where there is an existing live competition merit list, the vacancy is filled from this available supply.
In November 2020, all Civil Service departments conducted a root and branch review of their staff establishments, confirming a total of c4,500 affordable additional posts they needed filled. At end of December, NICSHR has filled 4,509 posts since November 2020.
At the end of December 2021, NICSHR was managing an active vacancy caseload of 2,859 (compared to over 4,500 as at November 2020). Of this caseload, 926 (32%) have start dates agreed / are progressing through offer process.
Approximately 69% (1,971 of the active vacancy caseload falls into the Civil Service General Service occupation group, and 35% (685) have start dates agreed / progressing through offer stage and a further 30% (c600) to follow suit in the next few weeks. Work is underway to finalise the General Service recruitment plan for 2022-23.
The remaining 31% (888) of the active vacancy caseload falls across a wide variety of professional / technical / specialist roles in the Civil Service, and 27% (241) have start dates agreed / are progressing through offer process. Recruitment for the remaining job roles continues on an ongoing basis, based on department’s forecast needs.
In 2019 the Civil Service sought to externally recruit at scale for above entry level grades for General Service positions. This has delivered new talent into the workforce as well as see many existing Civil Servants achieve promotion. For example during the 2020-21 financial year these open recruitment campaigns saw 840 new entrants join the Civil Service. This trend is continuing in the current financial year, with new entrants currently being on boarded from the external recruitment campaigns for General Service positions at the two Executive Officer grades.
NICSHR is working at pace with our service provider, HRConnect, to reduce any recruitment backlog that has arisen as a consequence of the Covid pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027878%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363304","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363304"}},{"id":"363145","reference":"AQW 27819/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-11","answerBy":"2022-01-26","answered":"2022-01-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of staff shortages in (a) the PSNI; (b) the Northern Ireland Prison Service; and (c) the justice system in general; and (ii) to detail the steps being taken to address any shortages.","answerText":"Recruitment and retention of police officers and civilian staff within the PSNI is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Prison Service currently has a number of vacancies across operational grades. Staffing levels are kept under constant review with colleagues in NICS HR which provides strategic HR advice and support to all NICS Departments. The most recent recruitment competition concluded on 31 December 2021 which will ensure there is a supply of prison officers to fill vacancies as required.\n\nWithin the core Department, the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Services, Forensic Science Northern Ireland, Youth Justice Agency and Legal Services Agency Northern Ireland, there are currently significant levels of vacancies. There are a significant number of recruitment competitions to fill staff vacancies currently in train as a result. Ongoing management action is minimising impacts on service delivery currently but this is kept under close review.\n\nThe ability to recruit to fill current and future vacancies will be affected by the outcome of the budget. The draft budget would require significant reductions in workforce across the justice system and would impact on the services that can be delivered.","answerHtml":"Recruitment and retention of police officers and civilian staff within the PSNI is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
The Northern Ireland Prison Service currently has a number of vacancies across operational grades. Staffing levels are kept under constant review with colleagues in NICS HR which provides strategic HR advice and support to all NICS Departments. The most recent recruitment competition concluded on 31 December 2021 which will ensure there is a supply of prison officers to fill vacancies as required.
Within the core Department, the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunals Services, Forensic Science Northern Ireland, Youth Justice Agency and Legal Services Agency Northern Ireland, there are currently significant levels of vacancies. There are a significant number of recruitment competitions to fill staff vacancies currently in train as a result. Ongoing management action is minimising impacts on service delivery currently but this is kept under close review.
The ability to recruit to fill current and future vacancies will be affected by the outcome of the budget. The draft budget would require significant reductions in workforce across the justice system and would impact on the services that can be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027819%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363145","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363145"}},{"id":"363144","reference":"AQW 27818/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-11","answerBy":"2022-01-26","answered":"2022-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of current staff shortages across the economy; (ii) to detail the sectors most affected; and (iii) to detail the steps being taken to address these shortages.","answerText":"(i)\n\nSkills and general labour shortages are being reported across the UK. The reasons for this are two-fold. Firstly, we are seeing higher than normal staff absence levels as a result of Covid-19 infection and isolation. Secondly, as the economy builds further momentum following lockdowns and the easing of other Covid-related restrictions, we are seeing high levels of demand for labour but low availability of workers due to our relatively low unemployment rate.\n\nI am glad to see that businesses have the confidence to invest in and hire staff here but such reported skills shortages can hamper economic and productivity growth. In that context, we need to ensure we are training workers to meet the needs of the economy and my Department’s Skills for a 10x Economy strategy will help achieve this.\n\n(ii)\n\nData from the ONS Business Insights and Impact on the UK Economy Survey shows that 14.6% of UK businesses were reporting a shortage of workers in late December 2021. The percentage was highest in Accommodation and Food Service Activities (37.2%); Construction (24.6%); and Human Health and Social Work Activities (22.7%). These statistics are not available below a UK level, but are broadly in line with what my Department is seeing at the Northern Ireland level.\n\n(iii)\n\nCovid-19 and government responses to potential future variants remain a challenge to all business sectors. Invest NI has been working across a wide range of sectors to assess the impact of the latest wave on their operations. To date, the reported impact of staff shortages within these sectors have been mitigated by measures put in place on the ground and absences are reported to be within tolerable limits. The reports my Department has received from the Higher Education and Further Education sectors are of a similar nature.\n\nIn terms of more general skills shortages, my Department has a range of initiatives in place.\n\nThese include SkillUP, an initiative launched in August 2021 which delivers free training places in an investment worth up to £23million over three years. It supports the training of all citizens aged 18 and over who are eligible to work in Northern Ireland, helping them to skill, reskill and upskill to address staffing shortages. Skill Up will serve to reduce key skills imbalances at all levels of employment, increasing opportunities and supporting lifelong learning.\n\nMy flagship Assured Skills programme has also continued to deliver, despite the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. Last year, Assured Skills delivered 27 academies, against a target of 16, with 508 individuals upskilled and 470 gaining employment in 2020/21.\n\nMy Department has also introduced an Apprenticeship Recovery Package to maintain the pipeline of apprenticeship opportunities and reduce redundancies. As of the end of December 2021, the Apprenticeship Recovery schemes have supported employers to return over 1,100 apprentices from furlough and to support the recruitment of 2,000 new apprentices.","answerHtml":"(i)
Skills and general labour shortages are being reported across the UK. The reasons for this are two-fold. Firstly, we are seeing higher than normal staff absence levels as a result of Covid-19 infection and isolation. Secondly, as the economy builds further momentum following lockdowns and the easing of other Covid-related restrictions, we are seeing high levels of demand for labour but low availability of workers due to our relatively low unemployment rate.
I am glad to see that businesses have the confidence to invest in and hire staff here but such reported skills shortages can hamper economic and productivity growth. In that context, we need to ensure we are training workers to meet the needs of the economy and my Department’s Skills for a 10x Economy strategy will help achieve this.
(ii)
Data from the ONS Business Insights and Impact on the UK Economy Survey shows that 14.6% of UK businesses were reporting a shortage of workers in late December 2021. The percentage was highest in Accommodation and Food Service Activities (37.2%); Construction (24.6%); and Human Health and Social Work Activities (22.7%). These statistics are not available below a UK level, but are broadly in line with what my Department is seeing at the Northern Ireland level.
(iii)
Covid-19 and government responses to potential future variants remain a challenge to all business sectors. Invest NI has been working across a wide range of sectors to assess the impact of the latest wave on their operations. To date, the reported impact of staff shortages within these sectors have been mitigated by measures put in place on the ground and absences are reported to be within tolerable limits. The reports my Department has received from the Higher Education and Further Education sectors are of a similar nature.
In terms of more general skills shortages, my Department has a range of initiatives in place.
These include SkillUP, an initiative launched in August 2021 which delivers free training places in an investment worth up to £23million over three years. It supports the training of all citizens aged 18 and over who are eligible to work in Northern Ireland, helping them to skill, reskill and upskill to address staffing shortages. Skill Up will serve to reduce key skills imbalances at all levels of employment, increasing opportunities and supporting lifelong learning.
My flagship Assured Skills programme has also continued to deliver, despite the challenges presented by the Covid-19 pandemic. Last year, Assured Skills delivered 27 academies, against a target of 16, with 508 individuals upskilled and 470 gaining employment in 2020/21.
My Department has also introduced an Apprenticeship Recovery Package to maintain the pipeline of apprenticeship opportunities and reduce redundancies. As of the end of December 2021, the Apprenticeship Recovery schemes have supported employers to return over 1,100 apprentices from furlough and to support the recruitment of 2,000 new apprentices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027818%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363144","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363144"}},{"id":"363143","reference":"AQW 27817/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-11","answerBy":"2022-01-26","answered":"2022-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the number of patients currently in hospital who are medically fit to return home but are unable to due to an appropriate care package being unavailable.","answerText":"Information on the number of patients in hospital on 17th January 2022 who were medically fit to return home but were unable to be discharged as they were awaiting a care package to be put in place, has been provided by each Health & Social Care (HSC) Trust and is detailed in the table overleaf.\n\nNumber of inpatients medically fit for discharge but unable to be discharged because an appropriate care package was not unavailable (17th January 2022)\n\nType of Care Package\nHSC Trust\tResidential\tNursing\tDomiciliary\tTotal\nBelfast\t6\t39\t32\t77\nNorthern\t0\t8\t3\t11\nSouth Eastern\t1\t15\t10\t26\nSouthern\t8\t31\t30\t69\nWestern\t0\t23\t18\t41\nNorthern Ireland\t15\t116\t93\t224\n\nThe domiciliary care sector continues to face significant pressure on services, as demand continues to outstrip supply. I have recognised the need for immediate action to support the sector over the winter period and I was therefore pleased to recently announce a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff.\n\nThis funding has already begun to be rolled out to providers through Trusts, and we have seen a number of recruitment drives by providers, offering more favourable hourly rates and terms and conditions to employees.\n\nI have been clear that this additional funding must be used to stabilise and enhance capacity across the sector to see us through a very challenging winter period.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of patients in hospital on 17th January 2022 who were medically fit to return home but were unable to be discharged as they were awaiting a care package to be put in place, has been provided by each Health & Social Care (HSC) Trust and is detailed in the table overleaf.
Number of inpatients medically fit for discharge but unable to be discharged because an appropriate care package was not unavailable (17th January 2022)
| Type of Care Package | ||||
| HSC Trust | Residential | Nursing | Domiciliary | Total |
| Belfast | 6 | 39 | 32 | 77 |
| Northern | 0 | 8 | 3 | 11 |
| South Eastern | 1 | 15 | 10 | 26 |
| Southern | 8 | 31 | 30 | 69 |
| Western | 0 | 23 | 18 | 41 |
| Northern Ireland | 15 | 116 | 93 | 224 |
The domiciliary care sector continues to face significant pressure on services, as demand continues to outstrip supply. I have recognised the need for immediate action to support the sector over the winter period and I was therefore pleased to recently announce a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff.
This funding has already begun to be rolled out to providers through Trusts, and we have seen a number of recruitment drives by providers, offering more favourable hourly rates and terms and conditions to employees.
I have been clear that this additional funding must be used to stabilise and enhance capacity across the sector to see us through a very challenging winter period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027817%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363143"}},{"id":"363142","reference":"AQW 27816/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-11","answerBy":"2022-01-26","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the mechanism by which people who test positive for COVID-19 with only a lateral flow test can obtain certification that they have tested positive in the previous 90 days and, therefore, an official COVID-19 certification for entering restricted businesses.","answerText":"There is no mechanism in place to use the results of a Lateral Flow Test to obtain a “Recovery Certificate”.","answerHtml":"There is no mechanism in place to use the results of a Lateral Flow Test to obtain a “Recovery Certificate”.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027816%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363142"}},{"id":"363141","reference":"AQW 27815/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-11","answerBy":"2022-01-26","answered":"2022-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of when the MOT booking system and backlog will return to pre-pandemic levels; and (ii) to detail any modelling that has been done on this.","answerText":"From 26 July 2021, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) reinstated normal vehicle test times, and this has increased capacity across the network of test centres. From 1 September to 31 December 2021, the DVA conducted 264,540 full vehicle tests, which is 8% more than the five-year average for those months.\n\nThe DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west. The DVA are monitoring the applications received and tests carried out and expect waiting times to reduce over time through the actions they have taken to increase vehicle testing capacity across the network.\n\nThe DVA implemented a new online booking system in September 2021 to replace the previous booking system, which was 20 years old. The new system provides an improved experience for customers by simplifying the MOT and driving test application process through the introduction of easy to use screens, with clear guidance on how to complete the booking process.","answerHtml":"From 26 July 2021, the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) reinstated normal vehicle test times, and this has increased capacity across the network of test centres. From 1 September to 31 December 2021, the DVA conducted 264,540 full vehicle tests, which is 8% more than the five-year average for those months.
The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west. The DVA are monitoring the applications received and tests carried out and expect waiting times to reduce over time through the actions they have taken to increase vehicle testing capacity across the network.
The DVA implemented a new online booking system in September 2021 to replace the previous booking system, which was 20 years old. The new system provides an improved experience for customers by simplifying the MOT and driving test application process through the introduction of easy to use screens, with clear guidance on how to complete the booking process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027815%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363141","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363141"}},{"id":"362903","reference":"AQW 27715/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-10","answerBy":"2022-01-25","answered":"2022-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of registered child minders that have closed since September 2021; (ii) the estimated number of children affected by these closures; and (iii) the closure or sustainability funding currently available to registered child minders.","answerText":"The Department of Health (DoH) has statutory responsibility for the regulation and inspection of childcare services. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), who maintain the register of all childcare providers on behalf of DoH, has confirmed that 87 childminders have de-registered during the period September 2021 – December 2021. However, there were 37 new childminder registrations for the same period. Equating to a net reduction of 50 childminders and 278 childcare places.\n\nThe HSCB data does not collect information on the number of children occupying the registered places in each setting, and therefore the number of children affected is not available.\n\nWork to extend the Covid-19 Childcare Temporary Closure Fund, from 1 January to end of March 2022, is at an advanced stage. Subject to business case approvals, I hope to make an announcement on this shortly.\n\nI had also committed to keeping the need for a further phase of the Childcare Sustainability Fund under review. Scoping work on this is underway and my officials are meeting with key childcare stakeholders to assess the current situation and consider what an appropriate response would be.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health (DoH) has statutory responsibility for the regulation and inspection of childcare services. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), who maintain the register of all childcare providers on behalf of DoH, has confirmed that 87 childminders have de-registered during the period September 2021 – December 2021. However, there were 37 new childminder registrations for the same period. Equating to a net reduction of 50 childminders and 278 childcare places.
The HSCB data does not collect information on the number of children occupying the registered places in each setting, and therefore the number of children affected is not available.
Work to extend the Covid-19 Childcare Temporary Closure Fund, from 1 January to end of March 2022, is at an advanced stage. Subject to business case approvals, I hope to make an announcement on this shortly.
I had also committed to keeping the need for a further phase of the Childcare Sustainability Fund under review. Scoping work on this is underway and my officials are meeting with key childcare stakeholders to assess the current situation and consider what an appropriate response would be.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027715%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362903"}},{"id":"362902","reference":"AQW 27714/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-10","answerBy":"2022-01-25","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 27125/17-22, to detail the reasons for it not being possible to extend the scope of the £500 recognition payment for independent health and social care workers to personnel working in the voluntary and private ambulance sector.","answerText":"Staff within the private/voluntary ambulance sector are not within scope of the Special Recognition Payment.\n\nPrivate ambulances will largely provide ad hoc cover at short notice where NIAS have difficulty with crews - it would not be possible to quantify the hours for individuals for a pro rata payment, based on the qualifying criteria - i.e. have worked continuously for one month over the qualifying period for directly employed, or, for agency workers, have been on a continuous 12 week placement covering an otherwise vacant post.","answerHtml":"Staff within the private/voluntary ambulance sector are not within scope of the Special Recognition Payment.
Private ambulances will largely provide ad hoc cover at short notice where NIAS have difficulty with crews - it would not be possible to quantify the hours for individuals for a pro rata payment, based on the qualifying criteria - i.e. have worked continuously for one month over the qualifying period for directly employed, or, for agency workers, have been on a continuous 12 week placement covering an otherwise vacant post.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027714%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362902"}},{"id":"362901","reference":"AQW 27713/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-10","answerBy":"2022-01-25","answered":"2022-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the steps he is taking, and the conversations he has had, to ensure Northern Irish residents with mica-affected properties in the Republic of Ireland are eligible for the Republic’s Mica Redress Scheme.","answerText":"My Department does not have policy responsibility for housing and I have not had any conversations with any Departments regarding mica-affected properties here.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have policy responsibility for housing and I have not had any conversations with any Departments regarding mica-affected properties here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027713%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362901"}},{"id":"362900","reference":"AQW 27712/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-10","answerBy":"2022-01-25","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the rationale for restricting the £100 Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme to just one type of fuel/energy.","answerText":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme was designed and is managed by Bryson Care. Bryson Care has confirmed that its design is based on the recommendations of Consumer Council NI and Bryson Energy research ‘The Need for a Fuel Bank Scheme in NI, carried out in 2021.","answerHtml":"The Emergency Fuel Payment Scheme was designed and is managed by Bryson Care. Bryson Care has confirmed that its design is based on the recommendations of Consumer Council NI and Bryson Energy research ‘The Need for a Fuel Bank Scheme in NI, carried out in 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027712%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362900"}},{"id":"362899","reference":"AQW 27711/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-10","answerBy":"2022-01-25","answered":"2022-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) what steps she has taken to employ recently graduated teachers to fill staffing gaps in schools created by COVID-19-related absences; and (ii) her assessment of the relative COVID-19 risks in schools for teachers recently graduated and recently retired, with respect to their ages.","answerText":"The Department of Education does not employ teachers. All teachers are employed by the Board of Governors for each school setting, with human resource matters carried out in consultation with the relevant employing authority. The Department is keen to ensure that graduate teachers are afforded every opportunity not only to gain permanent employment, but also to gain valuable experience by providing substitute cover and by filling temporary vacancies. Following graduation, they are required to register with GTCNI and those who are unable to secure a permanent teaching post may register with NISTR for substitute teaching work.\n\nThe health, safety and wellbeing of staff is of paramount importance to all employers in the education sector. All staff, regardless of whether they are recently graduated or recently retired, are required to follow any relevant PHA and employer guidance and to raise any concerns with their principal / line manager in the first instance. Where necessary, the principal will complete a risk-assessment, for example, for CEV or pregnant staff members, and put appropriate mitigations in place.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education does not employ teachers. All teachers are employed by the Board of Governors for each school setting, with human resource matters carried out in consultation with the relevant employing authority. The Department is keen to ensure that graduate teachers are afforded every opportunity not only to gain permanent employment, but also to gain valuable experience by providing substitute cover and by filling temporary vacancies. Following graduation, they are required to register with GTCNI and those who are unable to secure a permanent teaching post may register with NISTR for substitute teaching work.
The health, safety and wellbeing of staff is of paramount importance to all employers in the education sector. All staff, regardless of whether they are recently graduated or recently retired, are required to follow any relevant PHA and employer guidance and to raise any concerns with their principal / line manager in the first instance. Where necessary, the principal will complete a risk-assessment, for example, for CEV or pregnant staff members, and put appropriate mitigations in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027711%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362899","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362899"}},{"id":"363842","reference":"AQO 2943/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2022-01-10","answerBy":"2022-01-17","answered":"2022-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what conversations she has had with the Chief Constable about all the support required from her Department regarding the planned increase in police numbers.","answerText":"I have conversations with the Chief Constable on a regular basis and we discuss a range of issues, including the increase in police officer numbers and the support required from my Department. For example, in my last stocktake with the Chief Constable on 5 January 2022, we had a discussion on the draft budget 2022-25 outcome for the department and the potential impact on the future recruitment of police officers.\n\nIn the current financial year, PSNI received an in-year allocation to enable the PSNI to retain their police numbers of approximately 7,000, and to enable the recruitment of 100 officers in 2021-22 towards the police officer numbers in the New Decade New Approach document. However, the draft budget for 2022-25 is insufficient to maintain the police number numbers at 7,100 and further progress to increase police officer numbers will not be possible unless further funding is made available.\n\nThe NI Executive has now agreed to consult on a draft budget for 2022-25, and I would strongly encourage everyone with an interest in policing to have their say before it closes on 7 March.\n\nIn the meantime, I will continue to work with Executive Colleagues, including the Minister of Finance, and the Chief Constable, to ensure we have a police service that is properly resourced in all aspects for the challenges it faces.","answerHtml":"I have conversations with the Chief Constable on a regular basis and we discuss a range of issues, including the increase in police officer numbers and the support required from my Department. For example, in my last stocktake with the Chief Constable on 5 January 2022, we had a discussion on the draft budget 2022-25 outcome for the department and the potential impact on the future recruitment of police officers.
In the current financial year, PSNI received an in-year allocation to enable the PSNI to retain their police numbers of approximately 7,000, and to enable the recruitment of 100 officers in 2021-22 towards the police officer numbers in the New Decade New Approach document. However, the draft budget for 2022-25 is insufficient to maintain the police number numbers at 7,100 and further progress to increase police officer numbers will not be possible unless further funding is made available.
The NI Executive has now agreed to consult on a draft budget for 2022-25, and I would strongly encourage everyone with an interest in policing to have their say before it closes on 7 March.
In the meantime, I will continue to work with Executive Colleagues, including the Minister of Finance, and the Chief Constable, to ensure we have a police service that is properly resourced in all aspects for the challenges it faces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202943%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=363842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=363842"}},{"id":"362225","reference":"AQW 27647/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-17","answerBy":"2022-01-07","answered":"2022-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the work their Department is doing to address disadvantage, in particular that which results from adverse childhood experiences.","answerText":"We want all children to enjoy their childhood and be supported to achieve their full potential. This requires joined up working across government and in partnership with the public, private and voluntary sectors. This is an important and challenging issue, but through continuing to tackle the causes and consequences of child poverty we will create a much brighter future for all.\n\nWhile the reconfiguration of departmental responsibilities in 2016 means that TEO no longer has direct responsibility for delivery in this area, a great deal of work is being undertaken across departments on this issue.\n\nThe Department of Education leads on the Executive’s Children and Young People’s Strategy, which aims to improve the wellbeing of all children and young people in line with the PfG 2016-21 outcome “We give our children and young people the best start in life”.\n\nAdditionally, the Department for Communities is leading on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty, Disability, Gender Equality and Sexual Orientation Strategy. Strategy development will identify inequalities in relation to the strategies’ target social groups, with a focus on actions to address the issues, barriers and disadvantages that undermine equality of opportunity for all, including children and young people.\n\nThe Executive’s 2016/19 Child Poverty Strategy has been extended to May 2022. It continues to provide focus to the Executive’s collective efforts to tackle the issues faced by children including those with adverse childhood experiences and families impacted by poverty.\n\nA key factor in addressing child poverty is assisting parents to access training, increase their skills and to ultimately secure well paid, quality employment. We must, therefore, focus on growing the local economy and providing the opportunities and support needed such as education, skills, inward investment, job creation, and accessible childcare to empower parents to access work. The Executive’s Building Forward – Consolidated Covid Recovery Plan will play an integral role in this.\n\nThe entire Executive remains fully committed to the challenge ahead and to taking the necessary steps to help all children have better life chances.","answerHtml":"We want all children to enjoy their childhood and be supported to achieve their full potential. This requires joined up working across government and in partnership with the public, private and voluntary sectors. This is an important and challenging issue, but through continuing to tackle the causes and consequences of child poverty we will create a much brighter future for all.
While the reconfiguration of departmental responsibilities in 2016 means that TEO no longer has direct responsibility for delivery in this area, a great deal of work is being undertaken across departments on this issue.
The Department of Education leads on the Executive’s Children and Young People’s Strategy, which aims to improve the wellbeing of all children and young people in line with the PfG 2016-21 outcome “We give our children and young people the best start in life”.
Additionally, the Department for Communities is leading on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty, Disability, Gender Equality and Sexual Orientation Strategy. Strategy development will identify inequalities in relation to the strategies’ target social groups, with a focus on actions to address the issues, barriers and disadvantages that undermine equality of opportunity for all, including children and young people.
The Executive’s 2016/19 Child Poverty Strategy has been extended to May 2022. It continues to provide focus to the Executive’s collective efforts to tackle the issues faced by children including those with adverse childhood experiences and families impacted by poverty.
A key factor in addressing child poverty is assisting parents to access training, increase their skills and to ultimately secure well paid, quality employment. We must, therefore, focus on growing the local economy and providing the opportunities and support needed such as education, skills, inward investment, job creation, and accessible childcare to empower parents to access work. The Executive’s Building Forward – Consolidated Covid Recovery Plan will play an integral role in this.
The entire Executive remains fully committed to the challenge ahead and to taking the necessary steps to help all children have better life chances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027647%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362225"}},{"id":"362224","reference":"AQW 27646/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-17","answerBy":"2022-01-07","answered":"2021-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update of the work that the Safeguarding Board of Northern Ireland is doing to implement and facilitate the adoption of trauma informed practice.","answerText":"Since March 2018 the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) has led a change delivery programme to embed a better understanding of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed thinking across health, education, social care, justice, housing, local government and voluntary sectors. By March 2021, the project had achieved all of its original objectives, including the roll out of ACE awareness and trauma sensitive approaches to Practice Training, the establishment of a Train-the-Trainer Programme and enabling organisations to share good practice through engaging with the ‘Be the Change’ Leadership Programme.\n\nThroughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the SBNI has continued to work to embed an ACE/Trauma Informed culture and practices. The latest report on the Trauma Informed Practice Project is available at TIP - April to September 2021.","answerHtml":"Since March 2018 the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) has led a change delivery programme to embed a better understanding of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and trauma-informed thinking across health, education, social care, justice, housing, local government and voluntary sectors. By March 2021, the project had achieved all of its original objectives, including the roll out of ACE awareness and trauma sensitive approaches to Practice Training, the establishment of a Train-the-Trainer Programme and enabling organisations to share good practice through engaging with the ‘Be the Change’ Leadership Programme.
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, the SBNI has continued to work to embed an ACE/Trauma Informed culture and practices. The latest report on the Trauma Informed Practice Project is available at TIP - April to September 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027646%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362224"}},{"id":"362223","reference":"AQW 27645/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-17","answerBy":"2022-01-07","answered":"2022-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline the steps her Department is taking to explore the links between childhood trauma and offending.","answerText":"The correlation between childhood trauma and a range of negative outcomes for individuals, including engaging in offending behaviour, has been well documented in research carried out in both the UK and internationally. Included in this research is a Public Health Wales report (2015) which indicated that individuals with 4 or more Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) were 20 times more likely to be incarcerated during their lifetime. A further study carried out amongst the offender population in Wales in 2018 highlighted that over 8 in 10 offenders reported at least 1 ACE, and almost half had 4 or more ACEs.\n\nAs a result of the clear evidence linking childhood trauma and offending behaviour, a trauma informed approach has been formally endorsed by my Department’s Departmental Board and referenced as a priority within the Departmental Plan for 2021/22. In addition, a Trauma Informed Practice Subgroup has been established, the remit of which is to ensure that this approach is further embedded across the justice system.\n\nThe work of the subgroup will build on initiatives undertaken since 2018, aimed at ensuring that measures are in place to recognise the impact of past trauma on those within our care and to ensure that steps are taken to avoid re-traumatisation where possible. As part of this work, senior staff from all justice organisations have participated in the Safeguarding Board NI’s trauma informed leadership programme- “Be the Change”.\n\nFurthermore, staff at all levels who work with those who may be affected by trauma and/or adversity have received Trauma Informed Practice and ACE awareness training.","answerHtml":"The correlation between childhood trauma and a range of negative outcomes for individuals, including engaging in offending behaviour, has been well documented in research carried out in both the UK and internationally. Included in this research is a Public Health Wales report (2015) which indicated that individuals with 4 or more Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) were 20 times more likely to be incarcerated during their lifetime. A further study carried out amongst the offender population in Wales in 2018 highlighted that over 8 in 10 offenders reported at least 1 ACE, and almost half had 4 or more ACEs.
As a result of the clear evidence linking childhood trauma and offending behaviour, a trauma informed approach has been formally endorsed by my Department’s Departmental Board and referenced as a priority within the Departmental Plan for 2021/22. In addition, a Trauma Informed Practice Subgroup has been established, the remit of which is to ensure that this approach is further embedded across the justice system.
The work of the subgroup will build on initiatives undertaken since 2018, aimed at ensuring that measures are in place to recognise the impact of past trauma on those within our care and to ensure that steps are taken to avoid re-traumatisation where possible. As part of this work, senior staff from all justice organisations have participated in the Safeguarding Board NI’s trauma informed leadership programme- “Be the Change”.
Furthermore, staff at all levels who work with those who may be affected by trauma and/or adversity have received Trauma Informed Practice and ACE awareness training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027645%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362223"}},{"id":"362222","reference":"AQW 27644/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-17","answerBy":"2022-01-07","answered":"2022-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the work his Department is doing to reduce levels of self-harm and suicide, particularly in relation to people who have suffered childhood trauma.","answerText":"The Protect Life 2 Strategy contains a wide range of actions to reduce suicide and self-harm. These include Lifeline 24/7 helpline, self-harm support, training, counselling support, resilience building, awareness raising and public information campaigns, bereavement support, work with other Departments and initiatives such as Towards Zero Suicide and the Multi Agency Triage Team. The strategy clearly acknowledges that those who have experienced trauma and conflict have an increased suicide risk.\n\nIn the Western Area the Multiple Adverse Childhood Experience project aims to support families and communities which have experienced trauma in childhood. The project aims to develop techniques to better engage with children and consider methods to better deal with negative impacts of adverse childhood experiences.","answerHtml":"The Protect Life 2 Strategy contains a wide range of actions to reduce suicide and self-harm. These include Lifeline 24/7 helpline, self-harm support, training, counselling support, resilience building, awareness raising and public information campaigns, bereavement support, work with other Departments and initiatives such as Towards Zero Suicide and the Multi Agency Triage Team. The strategy clearly acknowledges that those who have experienced trauma and conflict have an increased suicide risk.
In the Western Area the Multiple Adverse Childhood Experience project aims to support families and communities which have experienced trauma in childhood. The project aims to develop techniques to better engage with children and consider methods to better deal with negative impacts of adverse childhood experiences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027644%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362222"}},{"id":"362221","reference":"AQW 27643/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-17","answerBy":"2022-01-07","answered":"2022-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide an update on the work her Department is doing to develop policy in accordance with the aims of the Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015.","answerText":"The Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 (CSCA) places a duty on the Executive to adopt a children and young persons’ strategy setting out how it proposes to improve the well-being of children and young people. The Children and Young People’s Strategy (CYPS) was approved by the Executive on 10 December 2020 and was published in January 2021. The CSCA requires the first report on the operation of the Act to be prepared by the Executive not more than 18 months after the date on which it adopts the CYPS. The first report is due in June 2022. A draft Delivery Plan setting out how Departments will work cooperatively during the initial 3-year period 2021-2024 to deliver the outcomes within the CYPS has recently been agreed by the Executive and will issue for public consultation in January 2022.\n\nAll actions within the Department of Education Business Plan for 2021/22, and those of its Arm’s Length Bodies, are linked to the eight wellbeing outcomes within the CYPS and, by extension, to the CSCA.\n\nMy Department has also issued guidance to other departments explaining the content of the CSCA, the duties it places on Children’s Authorities and the approach they are expected to adopt when developing policy.\n\nSome recent and ongoing areas of work taken forward in accordance with the aims of the CSCA include the Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework, the Transition of Young People into Careers (14-19) Project, the Strategy for Looked After Children, the Direct Payment in lieu of Free School Meals and School Holiday Food Grant Payment Schemes and the Executive Childcare Strategy.","answerHtml":"The Children’s Services Co-operation Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 (CSCA) places a duty on the Executive to adopt a children and young persons’ strategy setting out how it proposes to improve the well-being of children and young people. The Children and Young People’s Strategy (CYPS) was approved by the Executive on 10 December 2020 and was published in January 2021. The CSCA requires the first report on the operation of the Act to be prepared by the Executive not more than 18 months after the date on which it adopts the CYPS. The first report is due in June 2022. A draft Delivery Plan setting out how Departments will work cooperatively during the initial 3-year period 2021-2024 to deliver the outcomes within the CYPS has recently been agreed by the Executive and will issue for public consultation in January 2022.
All actions within the Department of Education Business Plan for 2021/22, and those of its Arm’s Length Bodies, are linked to the eight wellbeing outcomes within the CYPS and, by extension, to the CSCA.
My Department has also issued guidance to other departments explaining the content of the CSCA, the duties it places on Children’s Authorities and the approach they are expected to adopt when developing policy.
Some recent and ongoing areas of work taken forward in accordance with the aims of the CSCA include the Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework, the Transition of Young People into Careers (14-19) Project, the Strategy for Looked After Children, the Direct Payment in lieu of Free School Meals and School Holiday Food Grant Payment Schemes and the Executive Childcare Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027643%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362221"}},{"id":"362061","reference":"AQW 27561/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-16","answerBy":"2022-01-06","answered":"2021-12-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the assessment process which deemed some rural areas included in Project Stratum commercially unviable.","answerText":"Determining commercial viability for the deployment of broadband infrastructure is a matter for private broadband infrastructure providers. However, in order to close the digital divide between rural and urban areas in Northern Ireland my Department has developed Project Stratum, using £150m of public funding secured under the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the DUP and Conservatives, as well as £15m public funding from the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, to improve connectivity for premises unable to access broadband services of 30 Mbps or greater.\n\nIn line with State aid guidance, the intervention area was determined following an Open Market Review (OMR) exercise through June and July 2018, followed by the OMR public consultation, which ran from the start of December 2018 to January 2019. As part of this process, broadband suppliers provided information that indicated the current availability of services, as well as planned commercial services within a three-year timeframe to January 2022. Only premises which, based on the information supplied by private broadband infrastructure providers, would not have access to a broadband service of 30 Mbps or greater by January 2022 were eligible to benefit from Project Stratum.\n\nDetails of this process can be found on my Department’s website at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/extending-broadband-across-northern-ireland-project-stratum and also includes an Addendum published on 5 February 2020.\n\nMy Department continues to assess premises data made available by suppliers and, in accordance with State aid guidance set out in the National Broadband Scheme 2016, and through continued engagement with Building Digital UK, the division within the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport which serves as the National Competency Centre for the project, will seek to ensure that as many eligible premises as possible benefit from this transformational public intervention, more than 97% of which are in rural areas of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Determining commercial viability for the deployment of broadband infrastructure is a matter for private broadband infrastructure providers. However, in order to close the digital divide between rural and urban areas in Northern Ireland my Department has developed Project Stratum, using £150m of public funding secured under the Confidence and Supply Agreement between the DUP and Conservatives, as well as £15m public funding from the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, to improve connectivity for premises unable to access broadband services of 30 Mbps or greater.
In line with State aid guidance, the intervention area was determined following an Open Market Review (OMR) exercise through June and July 2018, followed by the OMR public consultation, which ran from the start of December 2018 to January 2019. As part of this process, broadband suppliers provided information that indicated the current availability of services, as well as planned commercial services within a three-year timeframe to January 2022. Only premises which, based on the information supplied by private broadband infrastructure providers, would not have access to a broadband service of 30 Mbps or greater by January 2022 were eligible to benefit from Project Stratum.
Details of this process can be found on my Department’s website at https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/consultations/extending-broadband-across-northern-ireland-project-stratum and also includes an Addendum published on 5 February 2020.
My Department continues to assess premises data made available by suppliers and, in accordance with State aid guidance set out in the National Broadband Scheme 2016, and through continued engagement with Building Digital UK, the division within the Department for Digital, Culture, Media & Sport which serves as the National Competency Centre for the project, will seek to ensure that as many eligible premises as possible benefit from this transformational public intervention, more than 97% of which are in rural areas of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027561%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362061","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362061"}},{"id":"362060","reference":"AQW 27560/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-16","answerBy":"2022-01-06","answered":"2022-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the estimated drop in the number of plastic bags used that will be achieved with the introduction of the 25p plastic bag levy, in comparison with the 5p levy.","answerText":"The Carrier Bag Levy in Northern Ireland (NI) is already the most extensive of its type in the United Kingdom, as it applies to all bags and not just plastic, with the revised legislation set to further extend its scope.\n\nSince introduction in 2013, it has already removed in excess of 1.7 billion bags from circulation with the most recent published validated statistics (August 2021), outlining a decrease of 81.3% from the 2012 pre levy baseline distribution figure of 300 million bags.\n\nPrior to the most recent levy consultation across NI, a Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) was carried out by my Departments economists with analysis outlining that while significant uncertainty currently surrounds shopping trends, high street trading and market structure post COVID, bag use could potentially be reduced by a further 39% when a 25p charge is introduced .\n\nThis potential further reduction is premised on the basis that the higher the increase in the levy, the bigger the decrease will be in overall carrier bag circulation and usage and I am confident that changes to the regulations will reduce the overall number of bags in circulation and make NI a cleaner, greener and a better place to live and do business.","answerHtml":"The Carrier Bag Levy in Northern Ireland (NI) is already the most extensive of its type in the United Kingdom, as it applies to all bags and not just plastic, with the revised legislation set to further extend its scope.
Since introduction in 2013, it has already removed in excess of 1.7 billion bags from circulation with the most recent published validated statistics (August 2021), outlining a decrease of 81.3% from the 2012 pre levy baseline distribution figure of 300 million bags.
Prior to the most recent levy consultation across NI, a Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) was carried out by my Departments economists with analysis outlining that while significant uncertainty currently surrounds shopping trends, high street trading and market structure post COVID, bag use could potentially be reduced by a further 39% when a 25p charge is introduced .
This potential further reduction is premised on the basis that the higher the increase in the levy, the bigger the decrease will be in overall carrier bag circulation and usage and I am confident that changes to the regulations will reduce the overall number of bags in circulation and make NI a cleaner, greener and a better place to live and do business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027560%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362060"}},{"id":"362059","reference":"AQW 27559/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-16","answerBy":"2022-01-06","answered":"2022-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the current provision of publicly available free lateral flow tests.","answerText":"There has been a steep rise in demand for Lateral Flow Tests over recent weeks. Testing is an important tool to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and increased participation in testing is welcome. There is a sufficient stock of Lateral Flow Tests ringfenced for Northern Ireland.\n\nLateral Flow Tests can be ordered for free home delivery online or by calling 119. Capacity to process online orders has been under significant pressure. The UK Health Security Agency has been working to address this.\n\nFree tests can also be collected from more than 580 sites across Northern Ireland, including more than 500 community pharmacies. Constituents can collect free Lateral Flow Test kits by visiting the NHS UK site finder online. Due to high-demand, individual collect sites may, at times, run low on stock between deliveries. Additional deliveries of test kits are being made into Northern Ireland.\n\nAll businesses across Northern Ireland can participate in the workforce testing programme to receive free Lateral Flow Tests for their staff. Expressions of Interest to participate in the programme have been welcomed from businesses since March 2021. Community and voluntary sector groups can also register with the Department of Health to receive free tests to provide to their staff and service users.","answerHtml":"There has been a steep rise in demand for Lateral Flow Tests over recent weeks. Testing is an important tool to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and increased participation in testing is welcome. There is a sufficient stock of Lateral Flow Tests ringfenced for Northern Ireland.
Lateral Flow Tests can be ordered for free home delivery online or by calling 119. Capacity to process online orders has been under significant pressure. The UK Health Security Agency has been working to address this.
Free tests can also be collected from more than 580 sites across Northern Ireland, including more than 500 community pharmacies. Constituents can collect free Lateral Flow Test kits by visiting the NHS UK site finder online. Due to high-demand, individual collect sites may, at times, run low on stock between deliveries. Additional deliveries of test kits are being made into Northern Ireland.
All businesses across Northern Ireland can participate in the workforce testing programme to receive free Lateral Flow Tests for their staff. Expressions of Interest to participate in the programme have been welcomed from businesses since March 2021. Community and voluntary sector groups can also register with the Department of Health to receive free tests to provide to their staff and service users.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027559%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362059","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362059"}},{"id":"362058","reference":"AQW 27558/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-16","answerBy":"2022-01-06","answered":"2022-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the interpretation provided to him by health experts of dementia being the most common co-symptom in COVID-19 deaths; and (ii) how this will inform future COVID-19 restrictions in relation to those in care homes or the elderly.","answerText":"At present, no formal assessment has been undertaken of this issue. Whilst those with dementia present among the most common pre-existing condition in Covid deaths, it is clear that further research would be necessary to provide a firm interpretation.\n\nThose living with dementia will often present with a range of other conditions which may also increase their risk in regards to Covid-19. Given that between 19 March 2020 and 31 December 2021, over a quarter (28.4%) of all Covid-19 deaths were residents of care homes, and nearly three quarters (73.5%) were aged 75 or over, this may explain in part the high numbers, although it does not make it any more acceptable.\n\nWhen considering restriction regulations, the Executive maintain the four principles that were agreed in May 2020: focus on purpose; necessity; proportionality; reliance on evidence. The purposes of the Regulations are (i) to protect the health of the population by limiting the spread of COVID-19 infection in order to minimise the numbers of cases and deaths, and (ii) to ensure as far as possible that the health care system has the capacity to care for COVID-19 patients and care for all patients, present and future.\n\nThe past 23 months have been unprecedented, and the Executive has sought to balance individual and societal liberty with public health requirements in the face of a global pandemic.\n\nAs I am sure you are aware, I announced on 15 February 2022 that all COVID-19 legal restrictions in Northern Ireland will be replaced by guidance from that date.\n\nAs we move forward we must balance the easing of restrictions against the ongoing risk still presented by COVID-19. It is important to note that care homes are distinct from other care settings in that they are enclosed environments and have a specific and particular risk profile.\n\nHowever I am pleased to advise that guidance to care homes, and in particular visiting, has been updated in line with the latest scientific evidence.\n\nI can confirm that the Public Health advice is that it is now appropriate to move to the third full stage of the Visiting with Care - Pathway – “Further Easing”.\n\nThere will no longer be a restriction on the number of people who may visit but visits remain limited to two households per day. In addition, overnight stays will now also be facilitated for care home residents.\n\nThe document 'Visiting With Care – A Pathway' was developed by the Public Health Agency, working with representatives from the statutory sector, representatives from various relatives’ groups and independent healthcare providers. It sets out an agreed new approach to supporting safe and proportionate increased visiting in care homes.\n\nThe document can be accessed through the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/Visiting%20With%20Care%20-%20A%20Pathway%20-%2017-02-2022%20Update.pdf\n\nCurrent guidance for healthcare professionals, carers and care homes on a range of COVID related areas can be found on the PHA website through the following link:\n\nhttps://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/guidance-hsc-staff-healthcare-workers-and-care-providers/guidance-healthcare","answerHtml":"At present, no formal assessment has been undertaken of this issue. Whilst those with dementia present among the most common pre-existing condition in Covid deaths, it is clear that further research would be necessary to provide a firm interpretation.
Those living with dementia will often present with a range of other conditions which may also increase their risk in regards to Covid-19. Given that between 19 March 2020 and 31 December 2021, over a quarter (28.4%) of all Covid-19 deaths were residents of care homes, and nearly three quarters (73.5%) were aged 75 or over, this may explain in part the high numbers, although it does not make it any more acceptable.
When considering restriction regulations, the Executive maintain the four principles that were agreed in May 2020: focus on purpose; necessity; proportionality; reliance on evidence. The purposes of the Regulations are (i) to protect the health of the population by limiting the spread of COVID-19 infection in order to minimise the numbers of cases and deaths, and (ii) to ensure as far as possible that the health care system has the capacity to care for COVID-19 patients and care for all patients, present and future.
The past 23 months have been unprecedented, and the Executive has sought to balance individual and societal liberty with public health requirements in the face of a global pandemic.
As I am sure you are aware, I announced on 15 February 2022 that all COVID-19 legal restrictions in Northern Ireland will be replaced by guidance from that date.
As we move forward we must balance the easing of restrictions against the ongoing risk still presented by COVID-19. It is important to note that care homes are distinct from other care settings in that they are enclosed environments and have a specific and particular risk profile.
However I am pleased to advise that guidance to care homes, and in particular visiting, has been updated in line with the latest scientific evidence.
I can confirm that the Public Health advice is that it is now appropriate to move to the third full stage of the Visiting with Care - Pathway – “Further Easing”.
There will no longer be a restriction on the number of people who may visit but visits remain limited to two households per day. In addition, overnight stays will now also be facilitated for care home residents.
The document 'Visiting With Care – A Pathway' was developed by the Public Health Agency, working with representatives from the statutory sector, representatives from various relatives’ groups and independent healthcare providers. It sets out an agreed new approach to supporting safe and proportionate increased visiting in care homes.
The document can be accessed through the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/Visiting%20With%20Care%20-%20A%20Pathway%20-%2017-02-2022%20Update.pdf
Current guidance for healthcare professionals, carers and care homes on a range of COVID related areas can be found on the PHA website through the following link:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/guidance-hsc-staff-healthcare-workers-and-care-providers/guidance-healthcare
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027558%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362058"}},{"id":"362057","reference":"AQW 27557/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-16","answerBy":"2022-01-06","answered":"2022-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for his assessment of the potential (i) benefits; and (ii) drawbacks of further devolution of taxation powers to the Northern Ireland Assembly.","answerText":"The Independent Fiscal Commission, which I set up in March 2021, is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the case for devolving further tax powers to the Assembly. The Commission published their interim report on 13th December, setting out their initial assessment in this regard, including both the potential rewards and risks associated with further fiscal devolution.\n\nMy Department has not undertaken a separate appraisal of this, and awaits the Commission’s final report, which is expected in Spring 2022. This will provide the incoming Executive with independent, expert advice that will enable it to take informed decisions on the devolution of further fiscal powers.","answerHtml":"The Independent Fiscal Commission, which I set up in March 2021, is currently carrying out a comprehensive review of the case for devolving further tax powers to the Assembly. The Commission published their interim report on 13th December, setting out their initial assessment in this regard, including both the potential rewards and risks associated with further fiscal devolution.
My Department has not undertaken a separate appraisal of this, and awaits the Commission’s final report, which is expected in Spring 2022. This will provide the incoming Executive with independent, expert advice that will enable it to take informed decisions on the devolution of further fiscal powers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027557%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=362057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=362057"}},{"id":"361846","reference":"AQW 27487/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-15","answerBy":"2022-01-05","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail any conversations he has had with fuel suppliers to establish a closer correlation between wholesale oil prices and the price consumers pay for petrol, diesel and home heating oil; and (ii) for his assessment of how a reduction in wholesale oil prices is passed onto consumers.","answerText":"My Department does not have any control over the price of crude oil.\n\nHome heating oil is an unregulated fuel therefore my Department has not had any discussions with fuel suppliers regarding the correlation between wholesale oil prices and the price consumers pay.\n\nWhile oil remains unregulated to the same degree as natural gas and electricity, there is an extensive network of oil distributers and suppliers which ensure that heating oil prices in Northern Ireland remain competitive and depend on market forces for its final price to consumers.\n\nThe Consumer Council carries out a survey of heating oil, petrol and diesel prices across Northern Ireland every week. This is available at www.consumercouncil.org.uk.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have any control over the price of crude oil.
Home heating oil is an unregulated fuel therefore my Department has not had any discussions with fuel suppliers regarding the correlation between wholesale oil prices and the price consumers pay.
While oil remains unregulated to the same degree as natural gas and electricity, there is an extensive network of oil distributers and suppliers which ensure that heating oil prices in Northern Ireland remain competitive and depend on market forces for its final price to consumers.
The Consumer Council carries out a survey of heating oil, petrol and diesel prices across Northern Ireland every week. This is available at www.consumercouncil.org.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027487%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361846","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361846"}},{"id":"361845","reference":"AQW 27486/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-15","answerBy":"2022-01-05","answered":"2022-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the rise in the price of milk production price and the impact this will have on (i) farmers; and (ii) consumers.","answerText":"The latest available data indicates that the NI milk producer price rose by 0.8 pence per litre in September compared to the previous month. This is 3.3 pence per litre higher (12%) compared to the same month in the previous year. It is also evident that there will be further upward pressure on the local producer milk price in the last quarter of 2021 as dairy commodity prices rose sharply in October and November due to tight supplies and strong demand. In particular, UK cheddar, skim milk powder, butter and bulk cream prices rose by 12%, 17%, 27% and 29% respectively between September and November.\n\nDairying is a key sector and contributes the largest share of total agricultural output in NI (30% in 2020). A 10% increase in the producer milk price over the course of the year would equate to an extra £66.7 million. However, input costs have also been rising, offsetting the impact of higher output prices. For more information on the impact of rises in input costs please see the responses to AQW 25849/17-22 and AQW 25693/17-22.\n\nThe extent to which the higher dairy commodity prices will be transmitted to consumers is unclear. For example, GB data indicates a mixed picture, with a 3% increase in the average retail 4 pint price of pasteurised milk between 5 September and 28 November but negligible changes in retail cheddar prices. This may reflect lags in the market but ultimately any rise in retail dairy prices would negatively impact consumer budgets.","answerHtml":"The latest available data indicates that the NI milk producer price rose by 0.8 pence per litre in September compared to the previous month. This is 3.3 pence per litre higher (12%) compared to the same month in the previous year. It is also evident that there will be further upward pressure on the local producer milk price in the last quarter of 2021 as dairy commodity prices rose sharply in October and November due to tight supplies and strong demand. In particular, UK cheddar, skim milk powder, butter and bulk cream prices rose by 12%, 17%, 27% and 29% respectively between September and November.
Dairying is a key sector and contributes the largest share of total agricultural output in NI (30% in 2020). A 10% increase in the producer milk price over the course of the year would equate to an extra £66.7 million. However, input costs have also been rising, offsetting the impact of higher output prices. For more information on the impact of rises in input costs please see the responses to AQW 25849/17-22 and AQW 25693/17-22.
The extent to which the higher dairy commodity prices will be transmitted to consumers is unclear. For example, GB data indicates a mixed picture, with a 3% increase in the average retail 4 pint price of pasteurised milk between 5 September and 28 November but negligible changes in retail cheddar prices. This may reflect lags in the market but ultimately any rise in retail dairy prices would negatively impact consumer budgets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027486%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361845","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361845"}},{"id":"361843","reference":"AQW 27484/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-15","answerBy":"2022-01-05","answered":"2022-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the social supermarkets that have received funding from her Department in the last five years, and the amount given; and (ii) for her assessment of the change in demand for social supermarkets over this time.","answerText":"My Department has funded 5 Social Supermarket Pilots since October 2017 and awarded a total of £1.39million in funding. The table below details the awards to each Pilot:\n\nFunding Awarded\t2017/2018\t2018/2019\t2019/2020\t2020/2021\t2021/2022\tTotal to Date\n6 months only\nVineyard Compassion\t£35,721.70\t£68,891.85\t£67,193.73\t£61,082.29\t£60,299.54\t£293,189.11\nStrabane Community Project\t£37,500.00\t£67,495.42\t£59,995.42\t£60,000.00\t£59,194.50\t£284,185.34\nLisburn City Church Community Trust\t£34,997.12\t£63,920.09\t£57,497.98\t£58,500.00\t£57,230.35\t£272,145.54\nFootprints Women’s Centre\t£32,471.02\t£59,743.88\t£54,736.72\t£53,133.96\t£56,980.00\t£257,065.58\nApex Housing\t£36,145.77\t£65,945.46\t£59,799.70\t£60,000.00\t£62,057.16\t£283,948.09\n\nTotal\t£176,835.61\t£325,996.70\t£299,223.55\t£292,716.25\t£295,761.55\t£1,390,533.66\n\nIn line with other food poverty interventions, Social Supermarkets have seen an increase in demand for their services since 2017 and demand remains above pre-pandemic levels.\n\nMy Department is currently working with local government and other stakeholders on a co-design basis, to consider how best to implement social supermarket models in each council area. The aim of this work is to offer a more sustainable response for those facing food insecurity by offering a service which seeks to address the causes of the insecurity rather than simply provide food support.","answerHtml":"My Department has funded 5 Social Supermarket Pilots since October 2017 and awarded a total of £1.39million in funding. The table below details the awards to each Pilot:
| Funding Awarded | 2017/2018 | 2018/2019 | 2019/2020 | 2020/2021 | 2021/2022 | Total to Date |
| 6 months only | ||||||
| Vineyard Compassion | £35,721.70 | £68,891.85 | £67,193.73 | £61,082.29 | £60,299.54 | £293,189.11 |
| Strabane Community Project | £37,500.00 | £67,495.42 | £59,995.42 | £60,000.00 | £59,194.50 | £284,185.34 |
| Lisburn City Church Community Trust | £34,997.12 | £63,920.09 | £57,497.98 | £58,500.00 | £57,230.35 | £272,145.54 |
| Footprints Women’s Centre | £32,471.02 | £59,743.88 | £54,736.72 | £53,133.96 | £56,980.00 | £257,065.58 |
| Apex Housing | £36,145.77 | £65,945.46 | £59,799.70 | £60,000.00 | £62,057.16 | £283,948.09 |
| Total | £176,835.61 | £325,996.70 | £299,223.55 | £292,716.25 | £295,761.55 | £1,390,533.66 |
In line with other food poverty interventions, Social Supermarkets have seen an increase in demand for their services since 2017 and demand remains above pre-pandemic levels.
My Department is currently working with local government and other stakeholders on a co-design basis, to consider how best to implement social supermarket models in each council area. The aim of this work is to offer a more sustainable response for those facing food insecurity by offering a service which seeks to address the causes of the insecurity rather than simply provide food support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027484%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361843"}},{"id":"361663","reference":"AQW 27379/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2022-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the availability of compensation, and any application process involved, for poultry farmers who have suffered losses or culls as a result of the latest outbreak of avian influenza.","answerText":"The Disease of Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 (the Order) provides that DAERA will pay compensation at current market value for all birds culled due to avian influenza (AI), at the Department’s direction.\n\nThe total amount of compensation due is derived from the value of the birds, as set out in valuation tables provided by the Agriculture Development and Advisory Service (ADAS), and the number of birds slaughtered.\n\nCompensation is only payable under the Order for birds culled at the Department’s direction; compensation is not paid for consequential losses resulting from other disease control measures. However the Department also covers the expenses associated with the cleaning and disinfection of infected premises.\n\nThere is no requirement for the flock keeper to apply for compensation, as the assessment of loss and subsequent processing for payment is part of the standard procedure followed by staff carrying out any such depopulation.","answerHtml":"The Disease of Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1981 (the Order) provides that DAERA will pay compensation at current market value for all birds culled due to avian influenza (AI), at the Department’s direction.
The total amount of compensation due is derived from the value of the birds, as set out in valuation tables provided by the Agriculture Development and Advisory Service (ADAS), and the number of birds slaughtered.
Compensation is only payable under the Order for birds culled at the Department’s direction; compensation is not paid for consequential losses resulting from other disease control measures. However the Department also covers the expenses associated with the cleaning and disinfection of infected premises.
There is no requirement for the flock keeper to apply for compensation, as the assessment of loss and subsequent processing for payment is part of the standard procedure followed by staff carrying out any such depopulation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027379%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361663","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361663"}},{"id":"361662","reference":"AQW 27378/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2021-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, further to her authorisation for educational school trips, whether her Department provides any funding for COVID-19 testing as per travel guidelines.","answerText":"Following the decision that educational visits outside of Northern Ireland were permitted to resume from 18 October 2021, my Department’s guidance for schools was updated. It states that schools should consult the relevant travel advice from the Executive before booking and travelling to ensure that all relevant requirements for travel are adhered to, including any requirements put in place by authorities in the destination country.\n\nSchools are also advised to seek advice from their travel provider and/or insurers to ensure there is adequate financial protection in place for the trip. The guidance also that states that my Department will not be able to underwrite the costs of any trips, including, but not limited to, additional costs resulting from the impact of COVID-19. As a result, there is no funding available from my Department to cover the costs of COVID-19 tests for such educational visits.","answerHtml":"Following the decision that educational visits outside of Northern Ireland were permitted to resume from 18 October 2021, my Department’s guidance for schools was updated. It states that schools should consult the relevant travel advice from the Executive before booking and travelling to ensure that all relevant requirements for travel are adhered to, including any requirements put in place by authorities in the destination country.
Schools are also advised to seek advice from their travel provider and/or insurers to ensure there is adequate financial protection in place for the trip. The guidance also that states that my Department will not be able to underwrite the costs of any trips, including, but not limited to, additional costs resulting from the impact of COVID-19. As a result, there is no funding available from my Department to cover the costs of COVID-19 tests for such educational visits.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027378%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361662"}},{"id":"361661","reference":"AQW 27377/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-14","answerBy":"2022-01-04","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to ensure planned operations and surgeries can go ahead alongside COVID-19 vaccination and treatment efforts.","answerText":"Every effort continues to be made to protect elective care activity; however, service delivery continues to be impacted by the necessity for strict infection prevention and control measures, the impact of Covid-19 on the available workforce, and longstanding capacity issues.\n\nIn order to mitigate the impact of this on elective care, the HSC will continue with the current dynamic approach to delivering surgery. This includes:\n\nSecuring capacity in the independent sector;\n\nTargeted in-house additionality;\n\nRegional prioritisation of time critical surgery to ensure that all available capacity is utilised equitably for patients across Northern Ireland;\n\nimplementation of green pathways and sites with every effort made to keep elected care services entirely separate from any exposure to Covid-19; and\n\nmegaclinics to maximise patient throughput.\n\nThese initiatives are aligned with the actions described in the Elective Care Framework. The performance gains described in the Framework will only be fully realised if the necessary recurrent funding is made available.","answerHtml":"Every effort continues to be made to protect elective care activity; however, service delivery continues to be impacted by the necessity for strict infection prevention and control measures, the impact of Covid-19 on the available workforce, and longstanding capacity issues.
In order to mitigate the impact of this on elective care, the HSC will continue with the current dynamic approach to delivering surgery. This includes:
Securing capacity in the independent sector;
Targeted in-house additionality;
Regional prioritisation of time critical surgery to ensure that all available capacity is utilised equitably for patients across Northern Ireland;
implementation of green pathways and sites with every effort made to keep elected care services entirely separate from any exposure to Covid-19; and
megaclinics to maximise patient throughput.
These initiatives are aligned with the actions described in the Elective Care Framework. The performance gains described in the Framework will only be fully realised if the necessary recurrent funding is made available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027377%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361661","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361661"}},{"id":"361497","reference":"AQW 27272/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-13","answerBy":"2021-12-31","answered":"2022-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to ensure school leavers with special educational needs are able to access, and be provided travel to, follow-on day-care facilities in an area close to that in which they attended school.","answerText":"School leavers are identified in advance of them reaching transition age so that an assessment of need can be undertaken to ensure that care and supports plan are put in place. The Transition Officer from Adult Learning Disability discusses the range of options and refers each school leaver on to their chosen pathway. This may be a Trust Arranged Service, which includes Day Care facilities. In the main, Day Care is able to accommodate most of the requests made, where needs will be met as identified within the care and support plans. However, the Trust has seen an increasing need and demand for bespoke, individualized day care provision that can respond to those young people who present with behaviours that challenge.\n\nTransport for day care, which is defined as being delivered in day centres, is provided by the Trust in line with assessed need.\n\nService users receiving day opportunities will independently access transport in line with the ethos of this model. The Trust will signpost individuals to community providers where there is not a family support network in place.","answerHtml":"School leavers are identified in advance of them reaching transition age so that an assessment of need can be undertaken to ensure that care and supports plan are put in place. The Transition Officer from Adult Learning Disability discusses the range of options and refers each school leaver on to their chosen pathway. This may be a Trust Arranged Service, which includes Day Care facilities. In the main, Day Care is able to accommodate most of the requests made, where needs will be met as identified within the care and support plans. However, the Trust has seen an increasing need and demand for bespoke, individualized day care provision that can respond to those young people who present with behaviours that challenge.
Transport for day care, which is defined as being delivered in day centres, is provided by the Trust in line with assessed need.
Service users receiving day opportunities will independently access transport in line with the ethos of this model. The Trust will signpost individuals to community providers where there is not a family support network in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027272%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361497"}},{"id":"361496","reference":"AQW 27271/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-13","answerBy":"2021-12-31","answered":"2021-12-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 25644/17-22, for his assessment of current over-charging of business rates.","answerText":"The rates liabilities of all ratepayers here are assessed in line with the requirements of the Rates Order and, therefore, no business ratepayer is being overcharged.\n\nIn relation to the separate issue of whether the rates burden on businesses is too high, my answer to AQW 25644/17-22 set out in some detail the significant steps which I have taken to reduce the rates paid by businesses here, including reducing the regional rate by 18% last year and the very generous package of rate reliefs which has seen 29,000 businesses pay no rates at all for two years.\n\nAlso, as you may already be aware, recently as part of the draft budget proposals, I have also set aside a further £50 million to provide more rate relief to local businesses in 2022/23. My proposal is to provide a one month rates holiday for all businesses (except utilities and large foodstores) next year and a further two months rates relief for retail, tourism, hospitality, leisure, childcare and airports. The final decisions on the detail of the new scheme will be made after the budget consultation is complete.\n\nI would remind the member that only part of the rates paid by businesses are levied by the Executive. Approximately half of every rate bill relates to the District Rates levied by district councils. I have urged district councils to show restraint in setting rates during the pandemic. I have also uncoupled the domestic and non-domestic district rates, giving councils the power to set lower rates for businesses and keep the rates burden as low as possible.","answerHtml":"The rates liabilities of all ratepayers here are assessed in line with the requirements of the Rates Order and, therefore, no business ratepayer is being overcharged.
In relation to the separate issue of whether the rates burden on businesses is too high, my answer to AQW 25644/17-22 set out in some detail the significant steps which I have taken to reduce the rates paid by businesses here, including reducing the regional rate by 18% last year and the very generous package of rate reliefs which has seen 29,000 businesses pay no rates at all for two years.
Also, as you may already be aware, recently as part of the draft budget proposals, I have also set aside a further £50 million to provide more rate relief to local businesses in 2022/23. My proposal is to provide a one month rates holiday for all businesses (except utilities and large foodstores) next year and a further two months rates relief for retail, tourism, hospitality, leisure, childcare and airports. The final decisions on the detail of the new scheme will be made after the budget consultation is complete.
I would remind the member that only part of the rates paid by businesses are levied by the Executive. Approximately half of every rate bill relates to the District Rates levied by district councils. I have urged district councils to show restraint in setting rates during the pandemic. I have also uncoupled the domestic and non-domestic district rates, giving councils the power to set lower rates for businesses and keep the rates burden as low as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027271%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361496"}},{"id":"361495","reference":"AQW 27270/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-13","answerBy":"2021-12-31","answered":"2021-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the steps she is taking to include access for horse riders in off-road active travel networks, including greenway schemes; and (ii) for her assessment of horse riders being vulnerable road users, comparable to pedestrians and cyclists.","answerText":"My Department has no plans, or indeed remit, to include access for horse riders in off-road active travel networks, including greenway schemes. Active travel is within my Department’s remit, the aim of which is to reduce the number of non-active journeys and so to deliver a modal shift from motorised transport. ‘Exercise – Explore – Enjoy: a Strategic Plan for Greenways’ was published by my Department in November 2016. The strategy has a particular focus on active travel and provides a framework to assist Councils and other bodies to develop their own local schemes as part of a greenway network for the entire region. As equestrian activity is not generally considered to be active travel, it was not included in the Strategic Plan.\n\nIn respect of the small number of greenways within its ownership, my Department has taken the approach that horses should not be permitted on greenways due to the size and unpredictability of such large animals. As Councils continue with greenway development, it will be each Council’s responsibility to decide whether horses should be permitted on its greenways.\n\nMy Department considers horse riders to be a vulnerable road user group, due to their lack of protection. The safety of horse riders certainly remains a priority, with advice to pass wide and slow when encountering a horse and its rider on the road. An information and advice page has been developed for the nidirect website and can be accessed at the following link: www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/motoring/road-safety/horse-safety-on-the-road.htm\n\nFurthermore, my officials have also developed a leaflet entitled ‘Horse Sense For Riders and Motorists’. This leaflet was developed in association with the British Horse Society and Road Safety Scotland. The leaflet can be downloaded at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/horse-sense-riders-and-motorists","answerHtml":"My Department has no plans, or indeed remit, to include access for horse riders in off-road active travel networks, including greenway schemes. Active travel is within my Department’s remit, the aim of which is to reduce the number of non-active journeys and so to deliver a modal shift from motorised transport. ‘Exercise – Explore – Enjoy: a Strategic Plan for Greenways’ was published by my Department in November 2016. The strategy has a particular focus on active travel and provides a framework to assist Councils and other bodies to develop their own local schemes as part of a greenway network for the entire region. As equestrian activity is not generally considered to be active travel, it was not included in the Strategic Plan.
In respect of the small number of greenways within its ownership, my Department has taken the approach that horses should not be permitted on greenways due to the size and unpredictability of such large animals. As Councils continue with greenway development, it will be each Council’s responsibility to decide whether horses should be permitted on its greenways.
My Department considers horse riders to be a vulnerable road user group, due to their lack of protection. The safety of horse riders certainly remains a priority, with advice to pass wide and slow when encountering a horse and its rider on the road. An information and advice page has been developed for the nidirect website and can be accessed at the following link: www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/motoring/road-safety/horse-safety-on-the-road.htm
Furthermore, my officials have also developed a leaflet entitled ‘Horse Sense For Riders and Motorists’. This leaflet was developed in association with the British Horse Society and Road Safety Scotland. The leaflet can be downloaded at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/publications/horse-sense-riders-and-motorists
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027270%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361495"}},{"id":"361494","reference":"AQW 27269/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-13","answerBy":"2021-12-31","answered":"2021-12-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the steps he is taking to support and expand the hospitality industry in (i) East Londonderry; and (ii) the north coast.","answerText":"In November 2019, Tourism NI launched its new Experience Brand, Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit, which features a number of visitor experiences in the Causeway Coast & Glens (CC&G) area including Whiskey on the Rocks, Beyond the Bridge and Catch & Sea.\n\nThere are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CC&G council on their Regional Growth Deal, to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle, to ensure that investment in tourism is aligned to Tourism NI’s key strategic objectives.\n\nThe tables below sets out the tourism operators located in the East Derry Constituency/North Coast area for which Tourism NI has provided funding to support and expand the hospitality industry, in recent years.\n\nExperience Development Programme 2020-21\nDrenagh Farms Limited\tLimavady\tBT49 0HP\t£200,000\nBroighter Gold Rapeseed Oil\tLimavady\tBT49 9DY\t£200,000\nAlive Adventures\tPortrush\tBT56 8GJ\t£53,760\nFreedive Northern Ireland\tPortrush\tBT56 8LP\t£6,208\nAquaholics\tPortstewart\tBT55 7BE\t£42, 920\nDunfin Farm\tBallycastle\tBT53 8SB\t£5,318.40\nTotal\t\t\t£508,206.40\n\nExperience Development Programme Audio Equipment 2020-21\nCauseway Coast Foodie Tours\tColeraine\tBT52 1JE\t£1,256\nWhite River Charters Ltd.\tPortstewart\tBT55 7DJ\t£1,556\nTotal\t\t\t£2,812.00\n\nWebsite Development Programme 2020-21\nCauseway Coast Foodie Tours\tColeraine\tBT52 1JE\t£7,056\nThe Chocolate Manor\tColeraine\tBT51 4RA\t£8,572\nThe Lake Kilrea\tKilrea\tBT51 5RR\t£12,628\nUlster Gliding Centre\tLimavady\tBT49 0LA\t£13,846\nCrindle Stables\tLimavady\tBT49 9ED\t£3,880\nAquaholics\tPortstewart\tBT55 7BE\t£5,150\nDunfin Farm\tBallycastle\tBT53 8SB\t£4,876.80\nTrout Tours Northern Ireland\tLarne\tBT40 2HQ\t£1,936.00\nThe Old Bushmills Distillery\tBushmills\tBT57 8XH\t£17,200.00\nNine Glens Walking Tours\tBallycastle\tBT54 6JX\t£2,240.00\nTotal\t\t\t£77,384.80\n\nThe tables below set out the tourism events located in the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast for which Tourism NI has provided funding support.\n\nTourism Event Funding Programme 2017/18\nNorth West 200 Races\t£70,000\nSuperCup NI*\t£50,000\nAirwaves Portrush\t£19,000\nStendhal Festival\t£10,000\nGiant’s Causeway Coast Sportive*\t£10,000\nTotal\t£159,000\n\n* Elements of these events were held within the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast area/s\n\nTourism Event Funding Programme 2018/19\nNorth West 200 Races\t£70,000\nSuperCup NI*\t£45,000\nAirwaves Portrush\t£20,000\nStendhal Festival\t£15,000\nTotal\t£150,000\n\n* Elements of these events were held within the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast area/s\n\nTourism Event Funding Programme 2019/20\nNorth West 200 Races\t£70,000\nSuperCup NI*\t£45,000\nAirwaves Portrush\t£12,000\nStendhal Festival\t£12,000\nGiant’s Causeway Coast Sportive*\t£6,000\nTotal\t£145,000\n\n* Elements of these events were held within the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast area/s\n\nTourism Event Funding Programme - Taste the Island 2019/20\nTaste Causeway\t£7,000\nTotal\t£7,000\n\nTourism Event Funding Programme 2020/21\nNorth West 200 Races\t£75,000\nTotal\t£75,000\n\nTourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CC&G council, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects, including the planning for and supporting the delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025.","answerHtml":"In November 2019, Tourism NI launched its new Experience Brand, Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit, which features a number of visitor experiences in the Causeway Coast & Glens (CC&G) area including Whiskey on the Rocks, Beyond the Bridge and Catch & Sea.
There are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CC&G council on their Regional Growth Deal, to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle, to ensure that investment in tourism is aligned to Tourism NI’s key strategic objectives.
The tables below sets out the tourism operators located in the East Derry Constituency/North Coast area for which Tourism NI has provided funding to support and expand the hospitality industry, in recent years.
| Experience Development Programme 2020-21 | |||
| Drenagh Farms Limited | Limavady | BT49 0HP | £200,000 |
| Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil | Limavady | BT49 9DY | £200,000 |
| Alive Adventures | Portrush | BT56 8GJ | £53,760 |
| Freedive Northern Ireland | Portrush | BT56 8LP | £6,208 |
| Aquaholics | Portstewart | BT55 7BE | £42, 920 |
| Dunfin Farm | Ballycastle | BT53 8SB | £5,318.40 |
| Total | £508,206.40 |
| Experience Development Programme Audio Equipment 2020-21 | |||
| Causeway Coast Foodie Tours | Coleraine | BT52 1JE | £1,256 |
| White River Charters Ltd. | Portstewart | BT55 7DJ | £1,556 |
| Total | £2,812.00 |
| Website Development Programme 2020-21 | |||
| Causeway Coast Foodie Tours | Coleraine | BT52 1JE | £7,056 |
| The Chocolate Manor | Coleraine | BT51 4RA | £8,572 |
| The Lake Kilrea | Kilrea | BT51 5RR | £12,628 |
| Ulster Gliding Centre | Limavady | BT49 0LA | £13,846 |
| Crindle Stables | Limavady | BT49 9ED | £3,880 |
| Aquaholics | Portstewart | BT55 7BE | £5,150 |
| Dunfin Farm | Ballycastle | BT53 8SB | £4,876.80 |
| Trout Tours Northern Ireland | Larne | BT40 2HQ | £1,936.00 |
| The Old Bushmills Distillery | Bushmills | BT57 8XH | £17,200.00 |
| Nine Glens Walking Tours | Ballycastle | BT54 6JX | £2,240.00 |
| Total | £77,384.80 |
The tables below set out the tourism events located in the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast for which Tourism NI has provided funding support.
| Tourism Event Funding Programme 2017/18 | |
| North West 200 Races | £70,000 |
| SuperCup NI* | £50,000 |
| Airwaves Portrush | £19,000 |
| Stendhal Festival | £10,000 |
| Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive* | £10,000 |
| Total | £159,000 |
* Elements of these events were held within the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast area/s
| Tourism Event Funding Programme 2018/19 | |
| North West 200 Races | £70,000 |
| SuperCup NI* | £45,000 |
| Airwaves Portrush | £20,000 |
| Stendhal Festival | £15,000 |
| Total | £150,000 |
* Elements of these events were held within the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast area/s
| Tourism Event Funding Programme 2019/20 | |
| North West 200 Races | £70,000 |
| SuperCup NI* | £45,000 |
| Airwaves Portrush | £12,000 |
| Stendhal Festival | £12,000 |
| Giant’s Causeway Coast Sportive* | £6,000 |
| Total | £145,000 |
* Elements of these events were held within the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast area/s
| Tourism Event Funding Programme - Taste the Island 2019/20 | |
| Taste Causeway | £7,000 |
| Total | £7,000 |
| Tourism Event Funding Programme 2020/21 | |
| North West 200 Races | £75,000 |
| Total | £75,000 |
Tourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CC&G council, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects, including the planning for and supporting the delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027269%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361494"}},{"id":"361493","reference":"AQW 27268/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-13","answerBy":"2021-12-31","answered":"2022-01-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 24829/17-22, to detail (i) the procedure for reporting an alleged breach of animal welfare enforcement regulations by local councils outside the local council body itself; and (ii) the chain of accountability and transparency mechanisms built in to such regulations to ensure public reports of animal cruelty are being investigated and enforced appropriately.","answerText":"Local councils are responsible for enforcing breaches of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 (“the Act”) relating to companion animals.\n\nAny individual, group or organisation has the right to complain about the service or actions taken by a council, including a council’s obligations under the Act. Such concerns should be raised via a council’s complaints procedure, in the first instance.\n\nWhere a complainant remains dissatisfied with the council’s response,, they may contact the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO). A complainant may also bring concerns about a council’s actions (or inactions) directly to the attention of the NIPSO.","answerHtml":"Local councils are responsible for enforcing breaches of the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 (“the Act”) relating to companion animals.
Any individual, group or organisation has the right to complain about the service or actions taken by a council, including a council’s obligations under the Act. Such concerns should be raised via a council’s complaints procedure, in the first instance.
Where a complainant remains dissatisfied with the council’s response,, they may contact the Northern Ireland Public Services Ombudsman (NIPSO). A complainant may also bring concerns about a council’s actions (or inactions) directly to the attention of the NIPSO.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027268%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361493"}},{"id":"361333","reference":"AQW 27206/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-10","answerBy":"2021-12-30","answered":"2021-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 25847/17-22, (i) to detail the steps he is taking to reduce waiting times for a child to receive and autism assessment and diagnosis; and (ii) for his assessment of the impact of these waiting times on children diagnosed with autism.","answerText":"Autism assessment is an operational matter for individual Trusts. In their role as Commissioning Leads, the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) have been meeting with Trusts who have lengthy waiting lists to determine the underlying causes and plans to address this. This will be part of ongoing engagement to keep waiting lists under review.\n\nAlongside this, the HSCB have appointed a Regional Emotional Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, whose role will include autism, and as part of this will be working with all five Trusts to develop regional consistency in access to support and services across Northern Ireland.\n\nI have publicly stated my concern in relation to waiting lists for autism assessment on many occasions and am conscious of the increasing challenges that growing waiting times for assessments and support are placing on individuals and their families. However, through the implementation of my current interim Autism Strategy, and the development of a longer term strategy, I am committed to enabling individuals and families to access supports and services which can assist them and to improving and streamlining pathways of care across the region.","answerHtml":"Autism assessment is an operational matter for individual Trusts. In their role as Commissioning Leads, the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) have been meeting with Trusts who have lengthy waiting lists to determine the underlying causes and plans to address this. This will be part of ongoing engagement to keep waiting lists under review.
Alongside this, the HSCB have appointed a Regional Emotional Health and Wellbeing Co-ordinator, whose role will include autism, and as part of this will be working with all five Trusts to develop regional consistency in access to support and services across Northern Ireland.
I have publicly stated my concern in relation to waiting lists for autism assessment on many occasions and am conscious of the increasing challenges that growing waiting times for assessments and support are placing on individuals and their families. However, through the implementation of my current interim Autism Strategy, and the development of a longer term strategy, I am committed to enabling individuals and families to access supports and services which can assist them and to improving and streamlining pathways of care across the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027206%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361333","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361333"}},{"id":"361332","reference":"AQW 27205/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-10","answerBy":"2021-12-30","answered":"2022-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the rationale for community pharmacies planning to stop giving out free compliance aids and blister packs to patients; (ii) the estimated number of people who use, or have received, these packs; (iii) whether money previously provided to pharmacies for this service covered the product and labour costs; and (iv) his assessment of how this will impact patients with complex pharmaceutical needs in correctly administering their medication.","answerText":"(i) Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacies, announced that community pharmacies would be no longer willing to accept new referrals for medicines compliance trays from 1st December due to this a being a non-commissioned service and wider pressures being faced by the sector.\n\n(ii)It is estimated that over 36,000 patients in Northern Ireland receive some level of compliance support from community pharmacies. It is not possible to provide an exact number of patients currently in receipt of medicine compliance trays because there is no agreed referral pathway or evidence available on how these individuals were assessed and placed on these trays.\n\n(iii)There is funding in the community pharmacy economy for some aspects of adherence support plus additional indirect funding which pays for multiple dispensing fees.\n\n(iv)Trusts have established interim contingencies which I am advised have helped to mitigate negative impact on patients.","answerHtml":"(i) Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI), the representative body for community pharmacies, announced that community pharmacies would be no longer willing to accept new referrals for medicines compliance trays from 1st December due to this a being a non-commissioned service and wider pressures being faced by the sector.
(ii)It is estimated that over 36,000 patients in Northern Ireland receive some level of compliance support from community pharmacies. It is not possible to provide an exact number of patients currently in receipt of medicine compliance trays because there is no agreed referral pathway or evidence available on how these individuals were assessed and placed on these trays.
(iii)There is funding in the community pharmacy economy for some aspects of adherence support plus additional indirect funding which pays for multiple dispensing fees.
(iv)Trusts have established interim contingencies which I am advised have helped to mitigate negative impact on patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027205%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361332","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361332"}},{"id":"361331","reference":"AQW 27204/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-10","answerBy":"2021-12-30","answered":"2022-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how many units of supported housing are currently available, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Please see the detail below in respect of the number of units of supported housing grant funded through the Supporting People programme, broken down by Constituency Area:\n\nConstituency Area\tUnits\nBELFAST EAST\t979\nBELFAST NORTH\t1,792\nBELFAST SOUTH\t1,406\nBELFAST WEST\t1210\nEAST ANTRIM\t662\nEAST DERRY\t708\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t414\nFOYLE\t1,117\nLAGAN VALLEY\t454\nMID ULSTER\t370\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t566\nNORTH ANTRIM\t724\nNORTH DOWN\t784\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t495\nSOUTH DOWN\t497\nSTRANGFORD\t407\nUPPER BANN\t720\nWEST TYRONE\t473\nGrand Total\t13,778","answerHtml":"Please see the detail below in respect of the number of units of supported housing grant funded through the Supporting People programme, broken down by Constituency Area:
| Constituency Area | Units |
| BELFAST EAST | 979 |
| BELFAST NORTH | 1,792 |
| BELFAST SOUTH | 1,406 |
| BELFAST WEST | 1210 |
| EAST ANTRIM | 662 |
| EAST DERRY | 708 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 414 |
| FOYLE | 1,117 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 454 |
| MID ULSTER | 370 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 566 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 724 |
| NORTH DOWN | 784 |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 495 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 497 |
| STRANGFORD | 407 |
| UPPER BANN | 720 |
| WEST TYRONE | 473 |
| Grand Total | 13,778 |
The Housing Executive have advised they do not provide specific accommodation for adults with learning disabilities nor do they routinely record/request details of applicants’ criminal records other than for those applicants who are offenders subject to the Public Protection Arrangements Statutory partners are consulted to ensure that these applicants receive suitable placements and any necessary support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027202%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361329"}},{"id":"361161","reference":"AQW 27128/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2022-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the hourly cost per person receiving care in the community; and (ii) whether this cost increases, or results in less caring time, when the person receiving the care lives in a rural area that requires longer travelling time.","answerText":"The cost of a domiciliary homecare package will vary significantly depending on the requirements of individuals. Costs will also differ depending on whether the package is being delivered through the independent or statutory sector.\n\nThe service provided to each person is based on an individualised assessment of need and could range from a small number of hours each week to much more significant care needs involving several carers. Trusts also have a number of different domiciliary care service delivery models, such as a rapid assessment service and long term permanent care, each regulated as a domiciliary care service. The range of services are provided both by Trust staff and independent sector provider staff and therefore the staff costs also vary per hour of care delivered. However, for the purposes of comparison, the cost paid to providers in relation to care, is outlined below.\n\n(i) Prior to November 2021, the hourly cost paid to independent sector providers is outlined below.\n\nBelfast Trust\tNorthern Trust\tSouth Eastern Trust\tSouthern Trust\tWestern Trust\n£15.68\t£14.82 to £23.63\t£15.68\t£15.68\t£14.24\n\nFrom 1 November 2021, following my announcement of a support package of up to £23m for the independent domiciliary and wider care sector, these rates have been increased to £18 per hour.\n\nFor statutory provision of domiciliary care, Trust staff are paid in accordance with regional pay scales under Agenda for Change. Trusts pay employer costs for their domiciliary care workers including employers’ National Insurance and Superannuation contributions. The Trusts also pay business mileage for travel.\n\n(ii) Care time delivered is based on the actual assessed needs of the service user, whether provided by the statutory or independent sector. The cost paid per hour is an overall hourly rate which covers costs directly associated with the care package. Travel time is not a determination in producing a planned package of care, as this is based on the needs of the individual. Where the person receiving the care lives in a rural area that requires longer travelling time, this should not result in less caring time, as the expectation is that the provider delivers care on the full commissioned time, as per each individual’s assessed care needs. The rate paid remains the same (as determined by the relevant Trust), regardless of geographical location or travel time.","answerHtml":"The cost of a domiciliary homecare package will vary significantly depending on the requirements of individuals. Costs will also differ depending on whether the package is being delivered through the independent or statutory sector.
The service provided to each person is based on an individualised assessment of need and could range from a small number of hours each week to much more significant care needs involving several carers. Trusts also have a number of different domiciliary care service delivery models, such as a rapid assessment service and long term permanent care, each regulated as a domiciliary care service. The range of services are provided both by Trust staff and independent sector provider staff and therefore the staff costs also vary per hour of care delivered. However, for the purposes of comparison, the cost paid to providers in relation to care, is outlined below.
(i) Prior to November 2021, the hourly cost paid to independent sector providers is outlined below.
| Belfast Trust | Northern Trust | South Eastern Trust | Southern Trust | Western Trust |
| £15.68 | £14.82 to £23.63 | £15.68 | £15.68 | £14.24 |
From 1 November 2021, following my announcement of a support package of up to £23m for the independent domiciliary and wider care sector, these rates have been increased to £18 per hour.
For statutory provision of domiciliary care, Trust staff are paid in accordance with regional pay scales under Agenda for Change. Trusts pay employer costs for their domiciliary care workers including employers’ National Insurance and Superannuation contributions. The Trusts also pay business mileage for travel.
(ii) Care time delivered is based on the actual assessed needs of the service user, whether provided by the statutory or independent sector. The cost paid per hour is an overall hourly rate which covers costs directly associated with the care package. Travel time is not a determination in producing a planned package of care, as this is based on the needs of the individual. Where the person receiving the care lives in a rural area that requires longer travelling time, this should not result in less caring time, as the expectation is that the provider delivers care on the full commissioned time, as per each individual’s assessed care needs. The rate paid remains the same (as determined by the relevant Trust), regardless of geographical location or travel time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027128%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361161"}},{"id":"361160","reference":"AQW 27127/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2022-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 25470/17-22, to detail the extent to which the advice and information provided by the animal welfare charity sector regarding animal cruelty is actioned by his Department.","answerText":"My Department takes seriously all allegations regarding unnecessary suffering being caused to animals and the commission of any other animal welfare offences, irrespective of their source. If allegations involve farmed animals or potential offences involving the transport of animals, my Department investigates them.\n\nIn addition, my Department refers any allegations it receives regarding the welfare of companion animals and animal fighting to local councils and the Police Service of Northern Ireland respectively for their investigation.","answerHtml":"My Department takes seriously all allegations regarding unnecessary suffering being caused to animals and the commission of any other animal welfare offences, irrespective of their source. If allegations involve farmed animals or potential offences involving the transport of animals, my Department investigates them.
In addition, my Department refers any allegations it receives regarding the welfare of companion animals and animal fighting to local councils and the Police Service of Northern Ireland respectively for their investigation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027127%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361160","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361160"}},{"id":"361158","reference":"AQW 27125/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2021-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether personnel working within the private and voluntary ambulance sector will receive the £500 recognition payment for independent health and social care workers; (ii) whether his Department has been liaising with this sector in relation to this payment; and (iii) when workers in this sector can expect this payment to be made.","answerText":"Staff within the private/voluntary ambulance sector are not within scope of the Special Recognition Payment. While the contribution of workers such as those in private and community ambulances is much appreciated and valued, it is not possible to extend the scope of the scheme to recognise all such contributions.","answerHtml":"Staff within the private/voluntary ambulance sector are not within scope of the Special Recognition Payment. While the contribution of workers such as those in private and community ambulances is much appreciated and valued, it is not possible to extend the scope of the scheme to recognise all such contributions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027125%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361158"}},{"id":"361157","reference":"AQW 27124/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-09","answerBy":"2021-12-29","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what consideration she has given to offering a winter fuel payment to those in receipt of high rate mobility personal independence payments and child disability living allowance, similar to that given in the winter of 2020/21.","answerText":"The Department for Communities currently provides support through the Affordable Warmth Scheme, Cold Weather Payments, Discretionary Support and the Winter Fuel Payment.\n\nThe vast majority of this year’s Winter Fuel Payments have been issued and to date 290,483 people have received their payment, with a total value of £51.7 million.This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities currently provides support through the Affordable Warmth Scheme, Cold Weather Payments, Discretionary Support and the Winter Fuel Payment.
The vast majority of this year’s Winter Fuel Payments have been issued and to date 290,483 people have received their payment, with a total value of £51.7 million.This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027124%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=361157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=361157"}},{"id":"360981","reference":"AQW 27053/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-08","answerBy":"2021-12-23","answered":"2021-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of pupils’ use of mobile phones in school classrooms, with regard to pupils’ education, and the privacy of fellow pupils and teachers; and (ii) to outline her Department’s advice to schools regarding mobile phones in classrooms.","answerText":"My Department does not provide advice to schools in relation to rules around the use of mobile phones in school classrooms or assess their impact on pupils’ education and the privacy of fellow pupils and teachers.\n\nIt is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to adopt a policy regarding the use of mobile phones by pupils on school premises.","answerHtml":"My Department does not provide advice to schools in relation to rules around the use of mobile phones in school classrooms or assess their impact on pupils’ education and the privacy of fellow pupils and teachers.
It is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to adopt a policy regarding the use of mobile phones by pupils on school premises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027053%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360981"}},{"id":"360980","reference":"AQW 27052/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-08","answerBy":"2021-12-23","answered":"2022-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of hospital patients who were unable to be discharged due to inadequate care provision for the patient, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Information on the number of hospital patients who were unable to be discharged due to inadequate care provision in each of the last five years, is not available.\n\nHowever, it is evident that the domiciliary care sector continues to face significant pressure on services, as demand continues to outstrip supply. I have recognised the need for immediate action to support the sector over the winter period and I was therefore pleased to recently announce a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff.\n\nThis funding has already begun to be rolled out to providers through Trusts, and we have seen a number of recruitment drives by providers, offering more favourable hourly rates and terms and conditions to employees.\n\nI have been clear that this additional funding must be used to stabilise and enhance capacity across the sector to see us through a very challenging winter period,\n\nAs regards care homes; the HSCB has completed extensive work in relation to care home placements alongside Trust colleagues. This has confirmed that there are issues with independent sector care home assessment and acceptance of the patient over 7 days.\n\nA piece of work has since been directed by the HSCB, in conjunction with Trust colleagues, as to the steps they could take to improve independent sector care home discharges over the weekend period. In addition, there were patients whose care needs made them harder to place on discharge from hospital. Trusts have been asked to complete a retrospective audit of Acute hospitals in January 2022, considering those patients who were more difficult to place. This intelligence will then help inform decision making going forward.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of hospital patients who were unable to be discharged due to inadequate care provision in each of the last five years, is not available.
However, it is evident that the domiciliary care sector continues to face significant pressure on services, as demand continues to outstrip supply. I have recognised the need for immediate action to support the sector over the winter period and I was therefore pleased to recently announce a £23million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff.
This funding has already begun to be rolled out to providers through Trusts, and we have seen a number of recruitment drives by providers, offering more favourable hourly rates and terms and conditions to employees.
I have been clear that this additional funding must be used to stabilise and enhance capacity across the sector to see us through a very challenging winter period,
As regards care homes; the HSCB has completed extensive work in relation to care home placements alongside Trust colleagues. This has confirmed that there are issues with independent sector care home assessment and acceptance of the patient over 7 days.
A piece of work has since been directed by the HSCB, in conjunction with Trust colleagues, as to the steps they could take to improve independent sector care home discharges over the weekend period. In addition, there were patients whose care needs made them harder to place on discharge from hospital. Trusts have been asked to complete a retrospective audit of Acute hospitals in January 2022, considering those patients who were more difficult to place. This intelligence will then help inform decision making going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027052%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360980"}},{"id":"360979","reference":"AQW 27051/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-08","answerBy":"2021-12-23","answered":"2022-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the social housing projects in each constituency that are currently behind schedule.","answerText":"In Table 1 below I have summarised the new build social housing schemes under construction for which the currently estimated completion date is later than the originally estimated completion date, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency. In Table 2 I have provided details of the schemes affected.\n\nSome of the delays are attributable to the impact of pandemic-related restrictions, but there can be other delaying factors e.g. requirement for planning amendments, re-tender for the construction works etc. Housing associations have provided assurance that the schemes will progress to completion as quickly as possible. Figures attached below.\n\nAnnex A\n\nTable 1 Delayed schemes by constituency\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tSchemes\tUnits\nEast Antrim\t1\t20\nNorth Antrim\t4\t77\nSouth Antrim\t2\t20\nUpper Bann\t1\t5\nEast Belfast\t1\t6\nNorth Belfast\t5\t153\nSouth Belfast\t2\t34\nWest Belfast\t7\t504\nNorth Down\t1\t11\nSouth Down\t3\t155\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t2\t70\nFoyle\t4\t66\nLagan Valley\t2\t42\nEast Derry\t1\t75\nMid Ulster\t0\t0\nNewry & Armagh\t3\t112\nStrangford\t2\t10\nWest Tyrone\t0\t0\nTotal\t41\t1,360\n\nTable 2 Location of delayed schemes\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tHousing Association\tScheme Name\tUnits\nEast Antrim\tRadius\t37 Ballyalton Park, Newtownabbey\t20\nNorth Antrim\tChoice\t129-131 Broughshane Street, Ballymena\t15\nNorth Antrim\tTriangle\tBroadway Avenue, Ballymena\t27\nNorth Antrim\tTriangle\t105-107 Broughshane Street, Ballymena\t15\nNorth Antrim\tTriangle\t79-81 Galgorm Road, Ballymena\t20\nSouth Antrim\tArk\t53 Mill Road, Crumlin\t11\nSouth Antrim\tRural\t99-101 Main Street, Randalstown\t9\nUpper Bann\tChoice\tDrumellan, Craigavon\t5\nEast Belfast\tConnswater\tLands adjacent to 91 Gilnahirk Road, Belfast\t6\nNorth Belfast\tChoice\tStanhope Site Phase 3, Belfast\t10\nNorth Belfast\tChoice\tOld Mill Drive, Newtownabbey\t1\nNorth Belfast\tClanmil\tSt Gemma's High School Site, Belfast\t53\nNorth Belfast\tClanmil\tBrookfield Mill, Crumlin Road, Belfast\t77\nNorth Belfast\tClanmil\tGlenbryn Phase 3, Belfast\t12\nSouth Belfast\tChoice\tLisburn Road/Ashley Avenue, Belfast\t23\nSouth Belfast\tChoice\t163 Ormeau Road, Belfast Phase 2\t11\nWest Belfast\tChoice\tBelvedere, Upper Dunmurry Lane, Belfast\t53\nWest Belfast\tChoice\tKilwee, Upper Dunmurry Lane, Belfast\t90\nWest Belfast\tChoice\tMoyard Parade, Belfast\t14\nWest Belfast\tChoice\tHannahstown Phase 1A, Belfast\t92\nWest Belfast\tRadius\tVisteon Factory, Blacks Road, Belfast\t196\nWest Belfast\tRadius\tGardenmore Road, Twinbrook\t14\nWest Belfast\tRadius\tHazel Close, Dunmurry\t45\nNorth Down\tArk\t18 Ballywalter Road, Millisle\t11\nSouth Down\tClanmil\tPound Lane, Downpatrick\t37\nSouth Down\tClanmil\tDowne Hospital site, Downpatrick\t66\nSouth Down\tRadius\tDrumalane Road, Newry\t52\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\tApex Housing\tKillymeal Road, Dungannon\t42\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\tChoice\tMullaghmore Road, Dungannon\t28\nFoyle\tClanmil\t50-54 Waterloo Street, Londonderry\t19\nFoyle\tClanmil\t190 Foxhill, Londonderry\t3\nFoyle\tHabinteg\tMews Lane, Londonderry\t16\nFoyle\tTriangle\t6-7 Patrick Street, Derry\t28\nLagan Valley\tArbour Housing\tCauseway End Road, Lisburn\t14\nLagan Valley\tClanmil\tBrokerstown Road, Lisburn Phase 2\t28\nEast Derry\tRadius\tColeraine Road, Portstewart\t75\nNewry & Armagh\tHabinteg\tCarnagat Road, Newry\t44\nNewry & Armagh\tRadius\tArdmore Road, Newry\t45\nNewry & Armagh\tTriangle\tArdmore Road, Armagh Phase 2\t23\nStrangford\tArk\t22 John Street Lane, Newtownards\t5\nStrangford\tClanmil\tSloane Crescent, Killyleagh\t5","answerHtml":"In Table 1 below I have summarised the new build social housing schemes under construction for which the currently estimated completion date is later than the originally estimated completion date, broken down by Parliamentary Constituency. In Table 2 I have provided details of the schemes affected.
Some of the delays are attributable to the impact of pandemic-related restrictions, but there can be other delaying factors e.g. requirement for planning amendments, re-tender for the construction works etc. Housing associations have provided assurance that the schemes will progress to completion as quickly as possible. Figures attached below.
Annex A
Table 1 Delayed schemes by constituency
| Parliamentary Constituency | Schemes | Units |
| East Antrim | 1 | 20 |
| North Antrim | 4 | 77 |
| South Antrim | 2 | 20 |
| Upper Bann | 1 | 5 |
| East Belfast | 1 | 6 |
| North Belfast | 5 | 153 |
| South Belfast | 2 | 34 |
| West Belfast | 7 | 504 |
| North Down | 1 | 11 |
| South Down | 3 | 155 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 2 | 70 |
| Foyle | 4 | 66 |
| Lagan Valley | 2 | 42 |
| East Derry | 1 | 75 |
| Mid Ulster | 0 | 0 |
| Newry & Armagh | 3 | 112 |
| Strangford | 2 | 10 |
| West Tyrone | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 41 | 1,360 |
Table 2 Location of delayed schemes
| Parliamentary Constituency | Housing Association | Scheme Name | Units |
| East Antrim | Radius | 37 Ballyalton Park, Newtownabbey | 20 |
| North Antrim | Choice | 129-131 Broughshane Street, Ballymena | 15 |
| North Antrim | Triangle | Broadway Avenue, Ballymena | 27 |
| North Antrim | Triangle | 105-107 Broughshane Street, Ballymena | 15 |
| North Antrim | Triangle | 79-81 Galgorm Road, Ballymena | 20 |
| South Antrim | Ark | 53 Mill Road, Crumlin | 11 |
| South Antrim | Rural | 99-101 Main Street, Randalstown | 9 |
| Upper Bann | Choice | Drumellan, Craigavon | 5 |
| East Belfast | Connswater | Lands adjacent to 91 Gilnahirk Road, Belfast | 6 |
| North Belfast | Choice | Stanhope Site Phase 3, Belfast | 10 |
| North Belfast | Choice | Old Mill Drive, Newtownabbey | 1 |
| North Belfast | Clanmil | St Gemma's High School Site, Belfast | 53 |
| North Belfast | Clanmil | Brookfield Mill, Crumlin Road, Belfast | 77 |
| North Belfast | Clanmil | Glenbryn Phase 3, Belfast | 12 |
| South Belfast | Choice | Lisburn Road/Ashley Avenue, Belfast | 23 |
| South Belfast | Choice | 163 Ormeau Road, Belfast Phase 2 | 11 |
| West Belfast | Choice | Belvedere, Upper Dunmurry Lane, Belfast | 53 |
| West Belfast | Choice | Kilwee, Upper Dunmurry Lane, Belfast | 90 |
| West Belfast | Choice | Moyard Parade, Belfast | 14 |
| West Belfast | Choice | Hannahstown Phase 1A, Belfast | 92 |
| West Belfast | Radius | Visteon Factory, Blacks Road, Belfast | 196 |
| West Belfast | Radius | Gardenmore Road, Twinbrook | 14 |
| West Belfast | Radius | Hazel Close, Dunmurry | 45 |
| North Down | Ark | 18 Ballywalter Road, Millisle | 11 |
| South Down | Clanmil | Pound Lane, Downpatrick | 37 |
| South Down | Clanmil | Downe Hospital site, Downpatrick | 66 |
| South Down | Radius | Drumalane Road, Newry | 52 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | Apex Housing | Killymeal Road, Dungannon | 42 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | Choice | Mullaghmore Road, Dungannon | 28 |
| Foyle | Clanmil | 50-54 Waterloo Street, Londonderry | 19 |
| Foyle | Clanmil | 190 Foxhill, Londonderry | 3 |
| Foyle | Habinteg | Mews Lane, Londonderry | 16 |
| Foyle | Triangle | 6-7 Patrick Street, Derry | 28 |
| Lagan Valley | Arbour Housing | Causeway End Road, Lisburn | 14 |
| Lagan Valley | Clanmil | Brokerstown Road, Lisburn Phase 2 | 28 |
| East Derry | Radius | Coleraine Road, Portstewart | 75 |
| Newry & Armagh | Habinteg | Carnagat Road, Newry | 44 |
| Newry & Armagh | Radius | Ardmore Road, Newry | 45 |
| Newry & Armagh | Triangle | Ardmore Road, Armagh Phase 2 | 23 |
| Strangford | Ark | 22 John Street Lane, Newtownards | 5 |
| Strangford | Clanmil | Sloane Crescent, Killyleagh | 5 |
The current obesity prevention framework, A Fitter Future for All 2012-2022, seeks to take an integrated approach to obesity prevention and contains outcomes and actions across the life course for the entire population of Northern Ireland. Work is underway to develop a replacement strategy by 2023.
Data from the latest National Diet and Nutrition Survey shows that children in Northern Ireland eat too much sugar, saturated fat, red meats and processed meats and not enough fruit and vegetables, oily fish and fibre.
Focussing specifically on children’s healthy eating habits, the Public Health Agency (PHA) invests in a number of obesity prevention programmes and work in partnership with statutory and non-statutory partners to promote activities that encourage eating habits that contribute to obesity prevention.
The PHA have developed and are funding the Early Years Obesity Prevention Programme (EYOP) across NI. This targeted programme will address risk and protective factors for childhood obesity, adopting a holistic approach focusing on parenting skills, family lifestyle habits, diet and nutrition, physical activity and emotional wellbeing.
In addition, the PHA support and deliver a number of population-wide programmes with key partners across government and across sectors to improve and promote healthy eating among children and young people, including:
Food in Schools healthy eating policy and programme;
Minimum Nutritional Standards in schools and Nutrition Education Programmes;
Breastfeeding – A Great Start strategy; and
Choose to Live Better and START campaigns.
.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027050%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360978"}},{"id":"360977","reference":"AQW 27049/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-08","answerBy":"2021-12-23","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the efforts she has made, and the schemes created, to ensure that people can heat and power their homes this winter.","answerText":"The Department for Communities currently provides support through the Affordable Warmth Scheme, Cold Weather Payments, Discretionary Support and the Winter Fuel Payment.\n\n“The vast majority of this year’s Winter Fuel Payments have been issued and to date 290,483 people have received their payment, with a total value of £51.7 million.\n\n“This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities currently provides support through the Affordable Warmth Scheme, Cold Weather Payments, Discretionary Support and the Winter Fuel Payment.
“The vast majority of this year’s Winter Fuel Payments have been issued and to date 290,483 people have received their payment, with a total value of £51.7 million.
“This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2027049%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360977"}},{"id":"360806","reference":"AQW 26965/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-07","answerBy":"2021-12-22","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how independent health and social care workers who worked in connection with an organisation during the qualifying period, but who are no longer connected with that organisation, will be paid their £500 recognition payment; (ii) whether a separate application process will be set up for people in this, or a similar, situation; and (iii) to detail the verification process by which the recognition payments can be confirmed as having reached eligible workers.","answerText":"Due to the transient nature of staff employed in the independent sector, some people may have moved to another employer for any number of reasons, including a job in a new sector.\n\nThe mechanism for administering the special recognition payments in these circumstances is currently being considered and will be included in the second phase of this process.\n\nDetails of Phase 2 will be communicated shortly to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA.\n\nPost validation checks will be undertaken on a sample of suppliers which will include seeking payroll evidence to demonstrate the person was paid.\n\nA revised FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available via the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs","answerHtml":"Due to the transient nature of staff employed in the independent sector, some people may have moved to another employer for any number of reasons, including a job in a new sector.
The mechanism for administering the special recognition payments in these circumstances is currently being considered and will be included in the second phase of this process.
Details of Phase 2 will be communicated shortly to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA.
Post validation checks will be undertaken on a sample of suppliers which will include seeking payroll evidence to demonstrate the person was paid.
A revised FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available via the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026965%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360806"}},{"id":"360804","reference":"AQW 26963/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-07","answerBy":"2021-12-22","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer; and (ii) what steps she is taking to expedite this programme.","answerText":"You will be aware that the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is a commitment in the New Decade New Approach agreement.\n\nI believe that this Programme provides a real opportunity to contribute to wider Executive priorities and address a range of social, economic and cultural needs along with the needs of the soccer family.\n\nOwing to the passage of time since the Public Consultation initiated in late 2015, I considered it essential to instruct my Department’s officials to complete a ‘Refresh and Re-engagement’ exercise. This exercise was key to provide robust evidence on changes within the soccer landscape and to identify both the current and future needs for the sport.\n\nI am actively considering the outcomes of this exercise, along with the benchmarking and research information and when I am satisfied that the needs for soccer have been clearly identified I will bring my recommendations to the Executive.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is a commitment in the New Decade New Approach agreement.
I believe that this Programme provides a real opportunity to contribute to wider Executive priorities and address a range of social, economic and cultural needs along with the needs of the soccer family.
Owing to the passage of time since the Public Consultation initiated in late 2015, I considered it essential to instruct my Department’s officials to complete a ‘Refresh and Re-engagement’ exercise. This exercise was key to provide robust evidence on changes within the soccer landscape and to identify both the current and future needs for the sport.
I am actively considering the outcomes of this exercise, along with the benchmarking and research information and when I am satisfied that the needs for soccer have been clearly identified I will bring my recommendations to the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026963%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360804","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360804"}},{"id":"360803","reference":"AQW 26962/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-07","answerBy":"2021-12-22","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the number and percentage of young people not in employment, education or training; and (ii) to detail the steps he is taking to bring these numbers down.","answerText":"The latest figures published by NISRA, in November 2021, indicate that an estimated 23,000 young people were not in employment, education or training (NEET) in Northern Ireland in the period from July to September 2021. This is 11.9% of all 16-24 year olds in Northern Ireland. The UK rate is 11.6%.\n\nMy Department funds a range of measures to assist young people to develop skills and fulfil their potential.\n\nIn September 2021, the Department introduced the Northern Ireland Traineeship programme, a Level 2 vocational education offer delivered by the Further Education Colleges and designed to deliver a qualification equating to a minimum of five GCSEs at grades A*- C, including English and Maths. The programme includes vocational training and structured work placements to support progression into employment or higher levels of education and training.\n\nThe Department is also working with the FE colleges to develop a new Advanced Technical Award at Level 3, which will build on the Traineeship model and provide young people with a similar high quality vocational pathway, providing parity with the academic route.\n\nSkills for Life and Work is an interim programme open to young people, aged 16-17 years, designed to offer continuity of provision alongside the new Traineeship Programme. Programme eligibility is extended to under 22 years for participants with a disability and under 24 years for participants from an “in care” background. The programme is a step on the road towards fully-reformed new provision that will address the changing vocational education/training and related needs of young people with low or no qualifications. It is a training programme for young people who want to develop their skills and get ready for work. It aims to deliver a portfolio of personal development, employability and essential skills alongside professional and technical training.\n\nMy Department’s Careers Service is available to provide impartial advice and guidance to all pupils making post 16 and post 18 decisions. Careers Advisers offer personalised support outlining all the suitable options and actively support all 16 and 17 year olds not in education, training or employment.\n\nApprenticeships are delivered through the Department and they offer a route into employment for young people. An Apprenticeship Recruit scheme is currently in place to financially incentivise the recruitment of new apprentices by employers.\n\nAnother opportunity for those over 18 years old is the Department's Assured Skills Programme which is offering 16 Collaborative Welding Skills in 2021/22. They are open to people with no academic qualifications and the participants that successfully complete the academies secure an industry recognised welding qualification and a guaranteed job interview with one of the companies participating in the academy. The academies are being delivered at the four Further Education College's where the demand for welding skills in the manufacturing sector is highest - North West, Northern, South West and Southern regional colleges.\n\nMy Department is also responsible for the design and delivery of the United Youth Programme, which is a key commitment in the NI Executive’s ‘Together: Building a United Community’ Strategy. The commitment is to deliver 10,000 places on a programme to offer young people in the NEET category structured employment, work experience, volunteer and leisure opportunities along with a dedicated programme designed to foster good relations and a shared future.\n\nIn addition, my Department is the Managing Authority for the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme. Projects receiving assistance through Call 2 of the Programme (April 2018-March 2022) have enabled almost 15,000 young people (at September 2021) to participate in skills and employability programmes. These programmes have resulted in over 6,200 young people moving into education and over 2,700 moving into employment. Call 3 of the Programme is due to commence in March 2022 and it is expected to assist over 3,000 NEET young people in 2022/23.\n\nIn addition to the aforementioned programmes and interventions, the strategic importance of enabling young persons to access better opportunities and participate in the labour market is recognised in my forthcoming Strategy Skills for a 10X Economy. A Skills Equality, Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee of the new Skills Council has been set up to ensure a sustained focus on barriers that impact upon specific cohorts, such as young people, in developing their skills.","answerHtml":"The latest figures published by NISRA, in November 2021, indicate that an estimated 23,000 young people were not in employment, education or training (NEET) in Northern Ireland in the period from July to September 2021. This is 11.9% of all 16-24 year olds in Northern Ireland. The UK rate is 11.6%.
My Department funds a range of measures to assist young people to develop skills and fulfil their potential.
In September 2021, the Department introduced the Northern Ireland Traineeship programme, a Level 2 vocational education offer delivered by the Further Education Colleges and designed to deliver a qualification equating to a minimum of five GCSEs at grades A*- C, including English and Maths. The programme includes vocational training and structured work placements to support progression into employment or higher levels of education and training.
The Department is also working with the FE colleges to develop a new Advanced Technical Award at Level 3, which will build on the Traineeship model and provide young people with a similar high quality vocational pathway, providing parity with the academic route.
Skills for Life and Work is an interim programme open to young people, aged 16-17 years, designed to offer continuity of provision alongside the new Traineeship Programme. Programme eligibility is extended to under 22 years for participants with a disability and under 24 years for participants from an “in care” background. The programme is a step on the road towards fully-reformed new provision that will address the changing vocational education/training and related needs of young people with low or no qualifications. It is a training programme for young people who want to develop their skills and get ready for work. It aims to deliver a portfolio of personal development, employability and essential skills alongside professional and technical training.
My Department’s Careers Service is available to provide impartial advice and guidance to all pupils making post 16 and post 18 decisions. Careers Advisers offer personalised support outlining all the suitable options and actively support all 16 and 17 year olds not in education, training or employment.
Apprenticeships are delivered through the Department and they offer a route into employment for young people. An Apprenticeship Recruit scheme is currently in place to financially incentivise the recruitment of new apprentices by employers.
Another opportunity for those over 18 years old is the Department's Assured Skills Programme which is offering 16 Collaborative Welding Skills in 2021/22. They are open to people with no academic qualifications and the participants that successfully complete the academies secure an industry recognised welding qualification and a guaranteed job interview with one of the companies participating in the academy. The academies are being delivered at the four Further Education College's where the demand for welding skills in the manufacturing sector is highest - North West, Northern, South West and Southern regional colleges.
My Department is also responsible for the design and delivery of the United Youth Programme, which is a key commitment in the NI Executive’s ‘Together: Building a United Community’ Strategy. The commitment is to deliver 10,000 places on a programme to offer young people in the NEET category structured employment, work experience, volunteer and leisure opportunities along with a dedicated programme designed to foster good relations and a shared future.
In addition, my Department is the Managing Authority for the Northern Ireland European Social Fund Programme. Projects receiving assistance through Call 2 of the Programme (April 2018-March 2022) have enabled almost 15,000 young people (at September 2021) to participate in skills and employability programmes. These programmes have resulted in over 6,200 young people moving into education and over 2,700 moving into employment. Call 3 of the Programme is due to commence in March 2022 and it is expected to assist over 3,000 NEET young people in 2022/23.
In addition to the aforementioned programmes and interventions, the strategic importance of enabling young persons to access better opportunities and participate in the labour market is recognised in my forthcoming Strategy Skills for a 10X Economy. A Skills Equality, Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee of the new Skills Council has been set up to ensure a sustained focus on barriers that impact upon specific cohorts, such as young people, in developing their skills.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026962%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360803"}},{"id":"360802","reference":"AQW 26961/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-07","answerBy":"2021-12-22","answered":"2022-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how the money raised from the increased plastic bag levy will be spent.","answerText":"The Carrier Bag Levy in Northern Ireland is the most comprehensive in the UK as not only does it include all bags but also we are the only jurisdiction where all proceeds are reinvested to support the wider environmental sector. Since it was introduced in 2013 a total of £35.1m of income has been generated, which covers the eight year period between 2013-14 and 2020-21.\n\nOver this period £24m has been utilised on the department’s main environmental grant programme, The Environment Fund (formerly Natural Environment Fund), with £3.5m funding the carrier beg levy team who are responsible for administering and enforcing the levy. The remaining £7.6m has been used on other environmental programmes including local clean up support, tackling plastic waste and contributions to the UK Climate Change Committee and Climate NI.\n\nOn 1st April 2022 the levy is due to increase from 5p to 25p per bag and the charging threshold will also increase to £5. It is expected that additional revenue will be realised in 2022-23 and beyond as a result of these changes. However at this stage it is difficult to predict the quantum of additional revenue that will be generated as much depends on customer behaviour and general economic activity.\n\nThe Department will continually review actual and predicted income levels in 2022-23 although it is envisaged that all revenue generated will continue to be reinvested to fund the full range of environmental programmes and principally the Environment Fund.","answerHtml":"The Carrier Bag Levy in Northern Ireland is the most comprehensive in the UK as not only does it include all bags but also we are the only jurisdiction where all proceeds are reinvested to support the wider environmental sector. Since it was introduced in 2013 a total of £35.1m of income has been generated, which covers the eight year period between 2013-14 and 2020-21.
Over this period £24m has been utilised on the department’s main environmental grant programme, The Environment Fund (formerly Natural Environment Fund), with £3.5m funding the carrier beg levy team who are responsible for administering and enforcing the levy. The remaining £7.6m has been used on other environmental programmes including local clean up support, tackling plastic waste and contributions to the UK Climate Change Committee and Climate NI.
On 1st April 2022 the levy is due to increase from 5p to 25p per bag and the charging threshold will also increase to £5. It is expected that additional revenue will be realised in 2022-23 and beyond as a result of these changes. However at this stage it is difficult to predict the quantum of additional revenue that will be generated as much depends on customer behaviour and general economic activity.
The Department will continually review actual and predicted income levels in 2022-23 although it is envisaged that all revenue generated will continue to be reinvested to fund the full range of environmental programmes and principally the Environment Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026961%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360802"}},{"id":"360555","reference":"AQW 26890/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-06","answerBy":"2021-12-09","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether licenced premises that provide takeaway services must ask for COVID Status Certification in Domestic Settings from people solely ordering takeaway items.","answerText":"Provisions for COVID-status Certification will not apply to settings where people are solely ordering takeaway items.","answerHtml":"Provisions for COVID-status Certification will not apply to settings where people are solely ordering takeaway items.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026890%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360555"}},{"id":"360554","reference":"AQW 26889/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-06","answerBy":"2021-12-21","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any preparations she has made to introduce part-time learning for (i) pupils at schools with high levels of COVID-19-related staff absences; and (ii) the wider school population.","answerText":"There are no current plans for mass school closures. Any decision to close schools would be taken by the Executive and taking medical and scientific advice into account.\n\nI recognise that some schools are currently experiencing pressures with staffing availability and in some cases, have asked some pupils to learn remotely for a short period. My Department published Circular 2021/25 on 6 December to provide further advice and guidance to schools on supporting remote learning, including the circumstances where remote learning may be appropriate.\n\nThe employing authorities have advised that they are working closely with schools who are experiencing staffing difficulties due to COVID-19 to provide additional support. This includes helping to source appropriate teaching cover where available. Furthermore, the Education Authority have established an Emergency Resourcing Team to support schools and this will remain in place for the remainder of the 2021/22 school year. The Department and employing authorities will continue to support schools and alleviate these pressures wherever possible.","answerHtml":"There are no current plans for mass school closures. Any decision to close schools would be taken by the Executive and taking medical and scientific advice into account.
I recognise that some schools are currently experiencing pressures with staffing availability and in some cases, have asked some pupils to learn remotely for a short period. My Department published Circular 2021/25 on 6 December to provide further advice and guidance to schools on supporting remote learning, including the circumstances where remote learning may be appropriate.
The employing authorities have advised that they are working closely with schools who are experiencing staffing difficulties due to COVID-19 to provide additional support. This includes helping to source appropriate teaching cover where available. Furthermore, the Education Authority have established an Emergency Resourcing Team to support schools and this will remain in place for the remainder of the 2021/22 school year. The Department and employing authorities will continue to support schools and alleviate these pressures wherever possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026889%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360554"}},{"id":"360553","reference":"AQW 26888/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-06","answerBy":"2021-12-21","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for her assessment of the levels of trauma among school pupils; and (ii) to detail her long-term plans for addressing this.","answerText":"The 2020 Northern Ireland Youth Wellbeing Prevalence Survey indicates that of the 3,000 children and young people involved in the survey, around one in two aged 11-19 years have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience, and just under 6% have experienced three or more. Primary school principals are also reporting more complex concerns presenting in younger pupils.\n\nI am aware that such experiences during childhood and adolesence can create trauma and, dependent on the prevalence of the experiences encountered and individual resilience, increases risks of negative impacts on health and wellbeing throughout the life-course.\n\nI recently launched the Education Sector Trauma Informed Practice Level One training programme to develop awareness of trauma and its potential impact on children and young people, encouraging staff to use a trauma sensitive lens when working with pupils. Level two training will also be made available to School Leaders and Pastoral care staff to further enhance and support awareness of trauma.\n\nThis will complement the range of programmes to be implemented through the Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework which will involve Education and Health working collaboratively to support schools and their pupils, promoting mental health and wellbeing and providing early or enhanced support when needed.\n\nProgrammes include an extension of the Attach Project which provides specific support for Children Looked After, founded on a trauma and attachment informed approach, the Education Authority Youth Service REACH programme (Resilience in Education Assisting Change to Happen), and a new Text A Nurse service. I have also recently introduced a pilot counselling and therapeutic support programme, Healthy Happy Minds, for all primary school age children.\n\nThe Framework Implementation Plan is subject to ongoing monitoring, evaluation and review to ensure it is providing effective support to those most in need.","answerHtml":"The 2020 Northern Ireland Youth Wellbeing Prevalence Survey indicates that of the 3,000 children and young people involved in the survey, around one in two aged 11-19 years have experienced at least one Adverse Childhood Experience, and just under 6% have experienced three or more. Primary school principals are also reporting more complex concerns presenting in younger pupils.
I am aware that such experiences during childhood and adolesence can create trauma and, dependent on the prevalence of the experiences encountered and individual resilience, increases risks of negative impacts on health and wellbeing throughout the life-course.
I recently launched the Education Sector Trauma Informed Practice Level One training programme to develop awareness of trauma and its potential impact on children and young people, encouraging staff to use a trauma sensitive lens when working with pupils. Level two training will also be made available to School Leaders and Pastoral care staff to further enhance and support awareness of trauma.
This will complement the range of programmes to be implemented through the Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework which will involve Education and Health working collaboratively to support schools and their pupils, promoting mental health and wellbeing and providing early or enhanced support when needed.
Programmes include an extension of the Attach Project which provides specific support for Children Looked After, founded on a trauma and attachment informed approach, the Education Authority Youth Service REACH programme (Resilience in Education Assisting Change to Happen), and a new Text A Nurse service. I have also recently introduced a pilot counselling and therapeutic support programme, Healthy Happy Minds, for all primary school age children.
The Framework Implementation Plan is subject to ongoing monitoring, evaluation and review to ensure it is providing effective support to those most in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026888%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360553"}},{"id":"360552","reference":"AQW 26887/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-06","answerBy":"2021-12-21","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the real terms cost increases of energy, food and other basic provisions for lower-income families; (ii) to detail the impact these are having on poverty and social deprivation levels; and (iii) what steps she is taking to ease this burden for households.","answerText":"I understand the serious impact that price increases are having on families and households.\n\nWork is continuing on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, which once published will provide focus to the Executive’s collective efforts to address poverty.\n\nThe Department currently provides support through the Affordable Warmth Scheme, Cold Weather Payments, Discretionary Support and the Winter Fuel Payment.\n\n“The vast majority of this year’s Winter Fuel Payments have been issued and to date 290,483 people have received their payment, with a total value of £51.7 million.\n\nThis global fuel crisis undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts\n\nThe Department’s Finance Support Service also offers short-term financial help through:\n\nDiscretionary Support\n\nUniversal Credit Contingency Fund short-term living expenses grant\n\nDiscretionary Support self-isolation grant\n\nSocial Fund budgeting loan\n\nSocial Fund Sure Start Maternity grant\n\nFurthermore, an additional £3 Million of COVID-19 funding has been allocated to local councils to support front line community development and advice activity through the Community Support Programme in acknowledgement of the continuing COVID-19 challenges and increasing financial pressures on households.\n\nIn order to support access to food, my Department has provided £1.05m funding to Fareshare, a food redistribution charity during 2020/2021 with a further allocation of £415k in 2021/2022 and has commenced a co-design process with the 11 councils to expand the Social Supermarket model","answerHtml":"I understand the serious impact that price increases are having on families and households.
Work is continuing on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, which once published will provide focus to the Executive’s collective efforts to address poverty.
The Department currently provides support through the Affordable Warmth Scheme, Cold Weather Payments, Discretionary Support and the Winter Fuel Payment.
“The vast majority of this year’s Winter Fuel Payments have been issued and to date 290,483 people have received their payment, with a total value of £51.7 million.
This global fuel crisis undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department continues to engage with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts
The Department’s Finance Support Service also offers short-term financial help through:
Discretionary Support
Universal Credit Contingency Fund short-term living expenses grant
Discretionary Support self-isolation grant
Social Fund budgeting loan
Social Fund Sure Start Maternity grant
Furthermore, an additional £3 Million of COVID-19 funding has been allocated to local councils to support front line community development and advice activity through the Community Support Programme in acknowledgement of the continuing COVID-19 challenges and increasing financial pressures on households.
In order to support access to food, my Department has provided £1.05m funding to Fareshare, a food redistribution charity during 2020/2021 with a further allocation of £415k in 2021/2022 and has commenced a co-design process with the 11 councils to expand the Social Supermarket model
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026887%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360552"}},{"id":"360551","reference":"AQW 26886/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-06","answerBy":"2021-12-21","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the steps she is taking to renovate Housing Executive properties deemed unfit or unreasonable for habitation.","answerText":"Any instances which are identified through the Housing Executive’s ongoing Stock Condition Survey or following contact by a tenant with the repairs service are acted on as appropriate depending on the nature of the failure. Such action can involve the issue being addressed by response maintenance, cyclical maintenance, an improvement or planned maintenance scheme, or where remediation is not deemed technically or financially feasible, clearance, demolition, redevelopment or sale.","answerHtml":"Any instances which are identified through the Housing Executive’s ongoing Stock Condition Survey or following contact by a tenant with the repairs service are acted on as appropriate depending on the nature of the failure. Such action can involve the issue being addressed by response maintenance, cyclical maintenance, an improvement or planned maintenance scheme, or where remediation is not deemed technically or financially feasible, clearance, demolition, redevelopment or sale.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026886%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360551"}},{"id":"360427","reference":"AQW 26826/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-03","answerBy":"2021-12-20","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the opportunities for international exchanges for university and college students via the Turing Scheme, relative to the Erasmus Scheme; and (ii) to detail the conversations he has had with the Republic of Ireland government regarding their involvement in enabling Northern Irish students to remain engaged with the Erasmus Scheme.","answerText":"(i) The Turing Scheme broadly replicates the structure, approach and levels of funding support for individuals and institutions provided through the Erasmus+ programme. While the Turing Scheme does not provide funding to support inward mobilities to the UK, it does provide Northern Ireland based learners with significant opportunities to work and study abroad, with a stronger focus on global opportunities than under Erasmus+.\n\nIn the first year of the Turing Scheme, all of Northern Ireland’s Higher Education and Further Education bids were successful, securing a total of £1.6m of funding to support mobilities in Academic Year 2021/22. The UK Government has recently announced the continuation of the scheme. My officials and I will continue to engage with the UK Government with a view to ensuring the scheme meets the needs of Northern Ireland.\n\n(ii) I have not had any conversations with the Irish government on this issue, however my Department is aware of the Irish Government’s proposals to support full-time third level students at Northern Ireland institutions to continue to access the Erasmus+ programme, by allowing them to temporarily register at an Irish institution for the duration of their mobility. While the progression of the proposed arrangements is a matter for the Irish Government and my Department has therefore not contributed to the development of the proposals, Departmental approval would be required for Further Education Colleges to participate in any arrangements developed by the Irish Government, given their status as NDPBs of the Department. Departmental officials will stay abreast of any developments in relation to the proposals, in order to assess the potential implications from a Northern Ireland perspective.","answerHtml":"(i) The Turing Scheme broadly replicates the structure, approach and levels of funding support for individuals and institutions provided through the Erasmus+ programme. While the Turing Scheme does not provide funding to support inward mobilities to the UK, it does provide Northern Ireland based learners with significant opportunities to work and study abroad, with a stronger focus on global opportunities than under Erasmus+.
In the first year of the Turing Scheme, all of Northern Ireland’s Higher Education and Further Education bids were successful, securing a total of £1.6m of funding to support mobilities in Academic Year 2021/22. The UK Government has recently announced the continuation of the scheme. My officials and I will continue to engage with the UK Government with a view to ensuring the scheme meets the needs of Northern Ireland.
(ii) I have not had any conversations with the Irish government on this issue, however my Department is aware of the Irish Government’s proposals to support full-time third level students at Northern Ireland institutions to continue to access the Erasmus+ programme, by allowing them to temporarily register at an Irish institution for the duration of their mobility. While the progression of the proposed arrangements is a matter for the Irish Government and my Department has therefore not contributed to the development of the proposals, Departmental approval would be required for Further Education Colleges to participate in any arrangements developed by the Irish Government, given their status as NDPBs of the Department. Departmental officials will stay abreast of any developments in relation to the proposals, in order to assess the potential implications from a Northern Ireland perspective.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026826%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360427"}},{"id":"360426","reference":"AQW 26825/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-03","answerBy":"2021-12-20","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount spent on safeguarding children from online sexual abuse in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The requested information is not available.\n\nMy department provides funding to a range of bodies to safeguard children from any form of abuse, and to support any child who is the victim of abuse that is referred to child protection services. That includes children who are the victims of any form of abuse online.\n\nIn addition, my department led on the development of an on-line safety strategy and action plan for children and young people. An estimated £457.2k will be invested by my department to implement actions under the strategy in 2022/23, including the appointment of an on-line safety co-ordinator in the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The requested information is not available.
My department provides funding to a range of bodies to safeguard children from any form of abuse, and to support any child who is the victim of abuse that is referred to child protection services. That includes children who are the victims of any form of abuse online.
In addition, my department led on the development of an on-line safety strategy and action plan for children and young people. An estimated £457.2k will be invested by my department to implement actions under the strategy in 2022/23, including the appointment of an on-line safety co-ordinator in the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026825%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360426","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360426"}},{"id":"360425","reference":"AQW 26824/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-03","answerBy":"2021-12-20","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the cost-efficiency measures she has planned for 2022-23, should her Department’s bid for an extra £350 million be unsuccessful.","answerText":"Once a Draft Budget is published for consultation, my Department will work with its Non-Departmental Public Bodies, especially the Education Authority, in considering the impact of unfunded inescapable pressures in 2022-23 and beyond.\n\nWhile any efficiencies that can be identified will be pursued, the reality is that a Draft Budget that does not fully address all of the Education pressures, will pose a significant challenge, given that about 80% of the sector’s costs are staff related.\n\nIt is anticipated that the Independent Review may identify potential opportunities to deliver a more efficient and more sustainable education system in the future, where resources are used more effectively for the ultimate benefit of our children and young people. However, this will not be delivered without political will and stakeholder agreement. Long term efficiencies will only be secured if there is adequate up-front funding to deliver on the Independent Panel’s recommendations.","answerHtml":"Once a Draft Budget is published for consultation, my Department will work with its Non-Departmental Public Bodies, especially the Education Authority, in considering the impact of unfunded inescapable pressures in 2022-23 and beyond.
While any efficiencies that can be identified will be pursued, the reality is that a Draft Budget that does not fully address all of the Education pressures, will pose a significant challenge, given that about 80% of the sector’s costs are staff related.
It is anticipated that the Independent Review may identify potential opportunities to deliver a more efficient and more sustainable education system in the future, where resources are used more effectively for the ultimate benefit of our children and young people. However, this will not be delivered without political will and stakeholder agreement. Long term efficiencies will only be secured if there is adequate up-front funding to deliver on the Independent Panel’s recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026824%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360425","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360425"}},{"id":"360424","reference":"AQW 26823/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-03","answerBy":"2021-12-20","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the impact of sewage discharges on (i) coastal areas; and (ii) sea swimmers.","answerText":"My Department monitors water quality around the coast of Northern Ireland and specifically examines microbiology at 26 identified bathing waters. In 2021, all sites met at least the minimum standards for water quality, with 19 achieving the ‘excellent’ standards.\n\nThe standards are based on World Health Organisation guidelines to protect swimmers from faecal contamination from human or agricultural sources. The overall results indicate that sites are not impacted and swimmers are therefore protected. However, occasionally there are higher microbiological results and these are always investigated to try to identify the cause. DAERA works with NI Water and other partners through the Better Beaches Forum to manage our bathing waters and beaches. Northern Ireland Environment Agency regulates NI Water and private sewage infrastructure under the Water Order 1999 and receiving water status is used to prioritise investment.\n\nMy Department is currently undertaking a review of bathing waters. As part of this process a pre-consultation letter was issued to all councils during summer 2021, requesting the nomination of proposed bathing water sites for consideration.","answerHtml":"My Department monitors water quality around the coast of Northern Ireland and specifically examines microbiology at 26 identified bathing waters. In 2021, all sites met at least the minimum standards for water quality, with 19 achieving the ‘excellent’ standards.
The standards are based on World Health Organisation guidelines to protect swimmers from faecal contamination from human or agricultural sources. The overall results indicate that sites are not impacted and swimmers are therefore protected. However, occasionally there are higher microbiological results and these are always investigated to try to identify the cause. DAERA works with NI Water and other partners through the Better Beaches Forum to manage our bathing waters and beaches. Northern Ireland Environment Agency regulates NI Water and private sewage infrastructure under the Water Order 1999 and receiving water status is used to prioritise investment.
My Department is currently undertaking a review of bathing waters. As part of this process a pre-consultation letter was issued to all councils during summer 2021, requesting the nomination of proposed bathing water sites for consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026823%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360424"}},{"id":"360239","reference":"AQW 26752/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-02","answerBy":"2021-12-17","answered":"2021-12-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the cost mitigation measures he has considered regarding the steep rise in energy prices for consumers.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations that may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs.\n\nMy officials continue to work with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council to ensure consumers are protected as much as possible through the regulated domestic tariff regime for both electricity and gas in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty and any mitigations that may be put in place to assist with rising fuel costs.
My officials continue to work with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council to ensure consumers are protected as much as possible through the regulated domestic tariff regime for both electricity and gas in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026752%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360239"}},{"id":"360237","reference":"AQW 26750/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-02","answerBy":"2021-12-17","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the methane-lowering potential for livestock of seaweed food supplements; and (ii) to detail any conversations he has had with the farming community in relation to this.","answerText":"(i) There is extensive research in Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand to explore the methane-mitigation potential of seaweeds and their products (e.g., extract) in ruminant livestock production. Although the early ‘in vitro’ and animal experiments indicates some varieties of seaweeds and their products showing some promising results (67% reduction in dairy cows and up to 98% in steers in some USA and Australian studies for e.g.), there is little information available in scientific publications on any seaweed products being approved as feed supplements in cattle/sheep production systems. A further hurdle for the successful development of seaweed products is for the concern of the adverse effect of feeding seaweeds on feed palatability, animal health and food safety.\n\nThe Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and Queens University Belfast are currently working with a number of other EU partners to investigate local seaweeds as feed additives for cattle and sheep under NI farming conditions. However, AFBI studies are still in an early stage of research, but the research outputs in the coming years could provide evidence on the potential of seaweeds active compounds for mitigation of enteric methane emissions from cattle and sheep production.\n\n(ii) My department has not taken this technology (use of seaweed food supplements) out to farmers yet. However, this will be kept under review and information shared with farmers as appropriate as the science evolves and potential commercial products become available.","answerHtml":"(i) There is extensive research in Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand to explore the methane-mitigation potential of seaweeds and their products (e.g., extract) in ruminant livestock production. Although the early ‘in vitro’ and animal experiments indicates some varieties of seaweeds and their products showing some promising results (67% reduction in dairy cows and up to 98% in steers in some USA and Australian studies for e.g.), there is little information available in scientific publications on any seaweed products being approved as feed supplements in cattle/sheep production systems. A further hurdle for the successful development of seaweed products is for the concern of the adverse effect of feeding seaweeds on feed palatability, animal health and food safety.
The Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and Queens University Belfast are currently working with a number of other EU partners to investigate local seaweeds as feed additives for cattle and sheep under NI farming conditions. However, AFBI studies are still in an early stage of research, but the research outputs in the coming years could provide evidence on the potential of seaweeds active compounds for mitigation of enteric methane emissions from cattle and sheep production.
(ii) My department has not taken this technology (use of seaweed food supplements) out to farmers yet. However, this will be kept under review and information shared with farmers as appropriate as the science evolves and potential commercial products become available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026750%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360237"}},{"id":"360235","reference":"AQW 26748/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-02","answerBy":"2021-12-17","answered":"2021-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail her plans to develop a coastal warning system for bathers and sea-sports enthusiasts to inform them of sewage discharges from NI Water infrastructure.","answerText":"NI Water collaborates with stakeholders to improve bathing water quality and shares knowledge of bathing water risks through its Integrated Environmental Modelling (IEM) Programmes, event duration monitors (EDM) and real-time instrumentation networks, but has confirmed that it currently has no plans, or funding, to develop an in-house bathing water quality predictive system.\n\nHowever, NI Water continues to work through the DAERA led Better Beaches Forum which has developed an action plan focussed on improving water quality. The provision of EDMs at all storm overflow points within 2km of bathing waters is part of the action plan.","answerHtml":"NI Water collaborates with stakeholders to improve bathing water quality and shares knowledge of bathing water risks through its Integrated Environmental Modelling (IEM) Programmes, event duration monitors (EDM) and real-time instrumentation networks, but has confirmed that it currently has no plans, or funding, to develop an in-house bathing water quality predictive system.
However, NI Water continues to work through the DAERA led Better Beaches Forum which has developed an action plan focussed on improving water quality. The provision of EDMs at all storm overflow points within 2km of bathing waters is part of the action plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026748%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360235"}},{"id":"360097","reference":"AQW 26693/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-01","answerBy":"2021-12-16","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide a breakdown of the number of households that have been assisted by the Co-Ownership programme, by constituency.","answerText":"Please see table below for breakdown of Co-Ownership homes delivered by constituency over the last 5 years.\n\nConstituency\tTotal number of purchases 2016-2021\n1\tBelfast East\t271\n2\tBelfast North\t297\n3\tBelfast South\t127\n4\tBelfast West\t302\n5\tEast Antrim\t172\n6\tEast Derry\t122\n7\tFermanagh and South Tyrone\t173\n8\tFoyle\t110\n9\tLagan Valley\t417\n10\tMid Ulster\t216\n11\tNewry and Armagh\t178\n12\tNorth Antrim\t257\n13\tNorth Down\t403\n14\tSouth Antrim\t432\n15\tSouth Down\t175\n16\tStrangford\t313\n17\tUpper Bann\t684\n18\tWest Tyrone\t52\nTotal\t4,701","answerHtml":"Please see table below for breakdown of Co-Ownership homes delivered by constituency over the last 5 years.
| Constituency | Total number of purchases 2016-2021 | |
| 1 | Belfast East | 271 |
| 2 | Belfast North | 297 |
| 3 | Belfast South | 127 |
| 4 | Belfast West | 302 |
| 5 | East Antrim | 172 |
| 6 | East Derry | 122 |
| 7 | Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 173 |
| 8 | Foyle | 110 |
| 9 | Lagan Valley | 417 |
| 10 | Mid Ulster | 216 |
| 11 | Newry and Armagh | 178 |
| 12 | North Antrim | 257 |
| 13 | North Down | 403 |
| 14 | South Antrim | 432 |
| 15 | South Down | 175 |
| 16 | Strangford | 313 |
| 17 | Upper Bann | 684 |
| 18 | West Tyrone | 52 |
| Total | 4,701 | |
By way of background, the Tourism (NI) Order 1992 is the legislative framework which governs the operation of visitor accommodation in Northern Ireland. It requires that all overnight tourist accommodation, offered by way of trade or business, is subject to compulsory inspection and certification to ensure that the accommodation complies with statutory minimum standards. Tourism NI is the body responsible for administering this scheme.
The purpose of the statutory regulation arrangements is to ensure that all tourist accommodation in Northern Ireland complies with basic requirements in terms of the nature, character, extent and standard of accommodation and facilities. This includes accommodation which is advertised on marketing platforms such as Airbnb.
Tourism NI has engaged with Airbnb officials who have adapted the ‘Responsible Hosting’ section on their website to take account of Northern Ireland’s certification scheme. This section states clearly that it is prohibited to provide or offer to provide tourist accommodation as a business unless there is a valid certificate issued by Tourism NI in force in respect of the premises.
Tourism NI holds information on the number of certified properties by category and council area but does not hold information on which marketing platforms accommodation providers choose to promote their property.
Tourism NI also works in partnership with local authorities on the management and promotion of legislative requirements outside of the minimum standards legislation. For example, in relation to Fire Safety, Building Control regulations, noise pollution and anti-social behaviour.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026692%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360096"}},{"id":"360095","reference":"AQW 26691/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-01","answerBy":"2021-12-16","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of Northern Ireland’s geothermal energy potential; and (ii) to detail what conversations he has had with stakeholders in this industry regarding the development of this form of renewable energy.","answerText":"Although the geothermal energy sector is growing across Europe and further afield, work to understand the potential for this type of energy in Northern Ireland is at an early stage.\n\nPreliminary assessment undertaken for the Department by the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland (GSNI) indicates that, in addition to the potential for ground source heat pumps across much of Northern Ireland, the presence of sedimentary aquifers at accessible depths means that Northern Ireland has significant potential for geothermal heat.\n\nHigh permeability aquifers underneath Greater Belfast and several other towns offer potential for larger-scale heating, cooling and thermal storage using open-loop systems. There exists some potential for mine water heat extraction and storage in parts of east Co. Tyrone.\n\nIn addition to these shallower resources, a high geothermal gradient in Northern Ireland means that significant deep geothermal energy resource is predicted in areas such as Co. Antrim that have deeply buried sedimentary aquifers. These aquifers, typically at 2–3 km depth, containing hot water at temperatures of 70–100°C, could be a source of low-carbon heat for industrial, horticultural and district heating use.\n\nSignificant further testing and analysis is needed to confirm these early findings. In June 2021, the Department established a Geothermal Advisory Committee (GAC) to oversee and steer future geothermal research. The GAC, which is chaired by the director of GSNI, engages representatives from academia, government, industry and geoscience professional organisations in identifying the need for further research and trials and to support policy development. The GAC peer-reviewed a new GSNI report on the geothermal prospectivity of Northern Ireland, and this was published at the NI Energy Forum on Nov 18 and is available online here.","answerHtml":"Although the geothermal energy sector is growing across Europe and further afield, work to understand the potential for this type of energy in Northern Ireland is at an early stage.
Preliminary assessment undertaken for the Department by the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland (GSNI) indicates that, in addition to the potential for ground source heat pumps across much of Northern Ireland, the presence of sedimentary aquifers at accessible depths means that Northern Ireland has significant potential for geothermal heat.
High permeability aquifers underneath Greater Belfast and several other towns offer potential for larger-scale heating, cooling and thermal storage using open-loop systems. There exists some potential for mine water heat extraction and storage in parts of east Co. Tyrone.
In addition to these shallower resources, a high geothermal gradient in Northern Ireland means that significant deep geothermal energy resource is predicted in areas such as Co. Antrim that have deeply buried sedimentary aquifers. These aquifers, typically at 2–3 km depth, containing hot water at temperatures of 70–100°C, could be a source of low-carbon heat for industrial, horticultural and district heating use.
Significant further testing and analysis is needed to confirm these early findings. In June 2021, the Department established a Geothermal Advisory Committee (GAC) to oversee and steer future geothermal research. The GAC, which is chaired by the director of GSNI, engages representatives from academia, government, industry and geoscience professional organisations in identifying the need for further research and trials and to support policy development. The GAC peer-reviewed a new GSNI report on the geothermal prospectivity of Northern Ireland, and this was published at the NI Energy Forum on Nov 18 and is available online here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026691%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360095"}},{"id":"360094","reference":"AQW 26690/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-12-01","answerBy":"2021-12-16","answered":"2021-12-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he has made to enable COVID-19 patients to be treated with molnupiravir.","answerText":"There will be two routes to accessing new COVID-19 treatments for non-hospitalised patients this winter. Firstly, from 16th December 2021, those who are in the highest risk group, who receive a positive PCR test, will be able to access antiviral treatments. They will be contacted by a clinician from the health service to discuss what treatments is most suitable for them. The second route is through a planned national study called PANORAMIC. This will be run by the University of Oxford and was officially announced on the 8th December 2021. For more information go to the following link: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-welcomes-new-treatments-covid-19-patients","answerHtml":"There will be two routes to accessing new COVID-19 treatments for non-hospitalised patients this winter. Firstly, from 16th December 2021, those who are in the highest risk group, who receive a positive PCR test, will be able to access antiviral treatments. They will be contacted by a clinician from the health service to discuss what treatments is most suitable for them. The second route is through a planned national study called PANORAMIC. This will be run by the University of Oxford and was officially announced on the 8th December 2021. For more information go to the following link: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-welcomes-new-treatments-covid-19-patients
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026690%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=360094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=360094"}},{"id":"359850","reference":"AQW 26623/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-30","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of service users awaiting care packages in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust; (ii) any changes that have been made to the number of hours of care provision calls; (iii) his assessment of the current challenges for domiciliary care and the sustainability of services; and (iv) the steps he is taking in response to these challenges.","answerText":"In recent weeks, the Northern Trust has found it particularly challenging to secure the delivery of domiciliary care packages from both independent sector and Trust homecare providers, which has resulted in an increase in those waiting for packages of care.\n\nAs of 1 December 2021, 439 service users were awaiting full packages of care and a further 292 awaiting partial packages of care.\n\nThe situation is particularly acute in the Mid Ulster area but the Northern Trust is also experiencing a similar emerging position in the Causeway area. Some independent sector providers, particularly in the Mid Ulster area, have raised concerns with the Trust regarding the sustainability of their services, due to challenges with both COVID and non-COVID related absence and pressures in relation to recruitment. One of the Trust’s Rapid Response domiciliary care providers temporarily reduced the number of hours available, however this is currently being increased by 10 hours per week, with the full quota of hours being implemented by Christmas.\n\nThe Trust’s internal service is experiencing similar challenges and reducing the number of calls within rotas in effected areas. Again this will be uplifted as soon as staffing levels increase.\n\nTrust named workers are supporting service users at this time but there is limited availability of alternative provision and unfortunately many service users decline the offer of a temporary contingency bed.\n\nThere remains significant pressure across the region on domiciliary care services, as demand outstrips supply. I have recognised the need for immediate action to support the sector over the coming months and was pleased to recently announce a £23 million funding package for independent sector domiciliary care and care home staff. It is my hope that this will provide an incentive to those wanting to stay within the sector, and indeed attract new staff to the sector, with the aim of supporting increased capacity across the social care sector for the remainder of 2021/22.","answerHtml":"In recent weeks, the Northern Trust has found it particularly challenging to secure the delivery of domiciliary care packages from both independent sector and Trust homecare providers, which has resulted in an increase in those waiting for packages of care.
As of 1 December 2021, 439 service users were awaiting full packages of care and a further 292 awaiting partial packages of care.
The situation is particularly acute in the Mid Ulster area but the Northern Trust is also experiencing a similar emerging position in the Causeway area. Some independent sector providers, particularly in the Mid Ulster area, have raised concerns with the Trust regarding the sustainability of their services, due to challenges with both COVID and non-COVID related absence and pressures in relation to recruitment. One of the Trust’s Rapid Response domiciliary care providers temporarily reduced the number of hours available, however this is currently being increased by 10 hours per week, with the full quota of hours being implemented by Christmas.
The Trust’s internal service is experiencing similar challenges and reducing the number of calls within rotas in effected areas. Again this will be uplifted as soon as staffing levels increase.
Trust named workers are supporting service users at this time but there is limited availability of alternative provision and unfortunately many service users decline the offer of a temporary contingency bed.
There remains significant pressure across the region on domiciliary care services, as demand outstrips supply. I have recognised the need for immediate action to support the sector over the coming months and was pleased to recently announce a £23 million funding package for independent sector domiciliary care and care home staff. It is my hope that this will provide an incentive to those wanting to stay within the sector, and indeed attract new staff to the sector, with the aim of supporting increased capacity across the social care sector for the remainder of 2021/22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026623%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359850"}},{"id":"359849","reference":"AQW 26622/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-30","answerBy":"2021-12-15","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what contact she has made with tenants, letting agents and landlords regarding the Private Tenancies Bill (NIA Bill 32/17-22).","answerText":"My Department has contacted various stakeholders for their views on the Private Tenancies Bill including, the Landlords Association, ARLA/Propertymark, Housing Rights, Renters’ Voice, councils, tenancy deposit scheme operators, Housing Executive and others.","answerHtml":"My Department has contacted various stakeholders for their views on the Private Tenancies Bill including, the Landlords Association, ARLA/Propertymark, Housing Rights, Renters’ Voice, councils, tenancy deposit scheme operators, Housing Executive and others.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026622%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359849"}},{"id":"359848","reference":"AQW 26621/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-30","answerBy":"2021-12-15","answered":"2022-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of how migrant labour laws are impacting the hotel industry; and (ii) to detail the steps he is taking to fill this labour gap and enable hotels to operate full-time.","answerText":"Northern Ireland, like other parts of the UK, has been experiencing a high demand for labour recently, largely due to the disruption that Covid-19 has caused in the labour market. This has been the case across many sectors including accommodation and hospitality and across a range of skill levels. It seems clear that some staff placed on furlough found opportunities in other occupational areas and did not wish to return to their former roles.\n\nIn terms of migrant workers, the ongoing impact of the pandemic has seen some migrants return to their home countries in order to ensure that they are not separated from families for long periods. So while uncertainty around the impact of EU Exit and the introduction of migrant labour laws from 1 January 2021 has also meant that some migrant workers have gone back or moved to other EU countries, I don’t believe that it is possible to attribute changes in employment to any one of these events specifically at this time.\n\nTourism NI is working with the Hospitality and Tourism Skills (HATS) network and the wider sector to align activity and address key strands of a skills action plan. A key collaborative initiative is the development of a recruitment campaign aimed at addressing serious issues such as the attraction and retention of a skilled workforce to the hospitality and tourism sector. The campaign launched 31 January 2022.\n\nThe COVID-19 Recovery Kick Start Programme provides an avenue of support to existing tourism businesses to identify recovery action plans across four key business areas including HR and Talent development with a view to building industry competitiveness and aiding the longer-lasting survival of these businesses. In addition, the Tourism Enterprise Development Programme has been enhanced and upweighted to address key recovery themes identified. It will also integrate skill enhancement programming aligned to customer service and sales skills.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland, like other parts of the UK, has been experiencing a high demand for labour recently, largely due to the disruption that Covid-19 has caused in the labour market. This has been the case across many sectors including accommodation and hospitality and across a range of skill levels. It seems clear that some staff placed on furlough found opportunities in other occupational areas and did not wish to return to their former roles.
In terms of migrant workers, the ongoing impact of the pandemic has seen some migrants return to their home countries in order to ensure that they are not separated from families for long periods. So while uncertainty around the impact of EU Exit and the introduction of migrant labour laws from 1 January 2021 has also meant that some migrant workers have gone back or moved to other EU countries, I don’t believe that it is possible to attribute changes in employment to any one of these events specifically at this time.
Tourism NI is working with the Hospitality and Tourism Skills (HATS) network and the wider sector to align activity and address key strands of a skills action plan. A key collaborative initiative is the development of a recruitment campaign aimed at addressing serious issues such as the attraction and retention of a skilled workforce to the hospitality and tourism sector. The campaign launched 31 January 2022.
The COVID-19 Recovery Kick Start Programme provides an avenue of support to existing tourism businesses to identify recovery action plans across four key business areas including HR and Talent development with a view to building industry competitiveness and aiding the longer-lasting survival of these businesses. In addition, the Tourism Enterprise Development Programme has been enhanced and upweighted to address key recovery themes identified. It will also integrate skill enhancement programming aligned to customer service and sales skills.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026621%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359848","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359848"}},{"id":"359847","reference":"AQW 26620/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-30","answerBy":"2021-12-15","answered":"2021-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the contingency plans in place for hospitals which report being at full capacity.","answerText":"Trusts have published their winter and surge plans which set out in detail planning at a Trust level. Each Trust has identified actions to release further acute beds should they be required. Importantly, HSCB is coordinating and managing the system across the region. This includes critical care, respiratory care and wider unscheduled pressures. Additionally, ambulance smoothing is being undertaken when required, to divert patients away from the sites under most intense pressure.\n\nHSCB is also working alongside the PHA and the Trusts to encourage timely discharge this winter to free up hospital beds. I recently announced a £23 million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff, which will facilitate increased capacity across the social care sector this winter and assist with timely discharge.","answerHtml":"Trusts have published their winter and surge plans which set out in detail planning at a Trust level. Each Trust has identified actions to release further acute beds should they be required. Importantly, HSCB is coordinating and managing the system across the region. This includes critical care, respiratory care and wider unscheduled pressures. Additionally, ambulance smoothing is being undertaken when required, to divert patients away from the sites under most intense pressure.
HSCB is also working alongside the PHA and the Trusts to encourage timely discharge this winter to free up hospital beds. I recently announced a £23 million funding package for domiciliary care and care home staff, which will facilitate increased capacity across the social care sector this winter and assist with timely discharge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026620%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359847","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359847"}},{"id":"359846","reference":"AQW 26619/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-30","answerBy":"2021-12-15","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the aims and objectives of the new Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Taskforce.","answerText":"Following my announcement of the establishment of an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, I have issued invitations to a number of key stakeholders asking them to join the Task-Force. The role of this Task-Force is to consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. In establishing this Task-Force, I recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence to users of ultra-low emission vehicles and improving connectivity across the North.\n\nIt is planned to hold the inaugural meeting of the group prior to Christmas, subject to the availability of representatives and the specific aims and objectives of the Task-Force will be set out in more detail once they have been finalised by the group.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement of the establishment of an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, I have issued invitations to a number of key stakeholders asking them to join the Task-Force. The role of this Task-Force is to consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. In establishing this Task-Force, I recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence to users of ultra-low emission vehicles and improving connectivity across the North.
It is planned to hold the inaugural meeting of the group prior to Christmas, subject to the availability of representatives and the specific aims and objectives of the Task-Force will be set out in more detail once they have been finalised by the group.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026619%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359846","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359846"}},{"id":"359663","reference":"AQW 26551/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of how e-commerce and logistics firms, such as Selazar, could ease some of the issues faced by online retailers selling to Northern Ireland, post-Brexit.","answerText":"Fulfilment platforms such as Selazar, provide online retailers with a range of services, such as managing stock, sales orders and returns. Such fulfilment platforms can facilitate the shipment of online orders on behalf of retailers, from warehouses closer to the end consumer. This may remove some customs administration for those retailers who use and pay for these services. However, it is commercial decision for online retailers if they wish to use fulfilment services.","answerHtml":"Fulfilment platforms such as Selazar, provide online retailers with a range of services, such as managing stock, sales orders and returns. Such fulfilment platforms can facilitate the shipment of online orders on behalf of retailers, from warehouses closer to the end consumer. This may remove some customs administration for those retailers who use and pay for these services. However, it is commercial decision for online retailers if they wish to use fulfilment services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026551%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359663","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359663"}},{"id":"359662","reference":"AQW 26550/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the services available for prisoners suffering from mental ill-health.","answerText":"The Department of Health is responsible for the provision of healthcare services to prisoners in Northern Ireland. Within our prisons, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) delivers mental health services at each establishment, comprising of mental health nurses, psychiatrists, mental health occupational therapists and clinical psychologists.\n\nThe Prison Service takes the duty of care for all the individuals it holds in custody extremely seriously and working with health colleagues to respond to those who need additional support remains a priority for NIPS.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health is responsible for the provision of healthcare services to prisoners in Northern Ireland. Within our prisons, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust (SEHSCT) delivers mental health services at each establishment, comprising of mental health nurses, psychiatrists, mental health occupational therapists and clinical psychologists.
The Prison Service takes the duty of care for all the individuals it holds in custody extremely seriously and working with health colleagues to respond to those who need additional support remains a priority for NIPS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026550%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359662"}},{"id":"359661","reference":"AQW 26549/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the estimated area of peatlands that could be restored in Northern Ireland; and (ii) the estimated impact on atmospheric carbon that would result from this.","answerText":"Peat soils cover 18% of Northern Ireland, with semi-natural peatland covering approximately 12% of the land area. Most of Northern Irelands’ peatland has been impacted by anthropogenic activities and are considered degraded and in poor condition, emitting significant amounts of stored carbon.\n\nDAERA are working with partners to develop a Northern Ireland Peatbase Map of peatland GHG emissions and peat degradation which will inform the development of a framework which will identify peatlands for restoration. This is an example of a range of nature based initiatives currently being scoped by DAERA officials to deliver the Department’s dual objectives to deliver net zero and restore biodiversity.\n\nThe UK’s peatlands are estimated to be emitting approximately 23 Mt CO2e yr-1 of GHG emissions. Widespread and ongoing peat restoration across the UK has contributed to a reduction in total emissions with current peat restoration initiatives estimated to deliver over 4 Mt CO2e yr-1 of emissions reductions by 2050.","answerHtml":"Peat soils cover 18% of Northern Ireland, with semi-natural peatland covering approximately 12% of the land area. Most of Northern Irelands’ peatland has been impacted by anthropogenic activities and are considered degraded and in poor condition, emitting significant amounts of stored carbon.
DAERA are working with partners to develop a Northern Ireland Peatbase Map of peatland GHG emissions and peat degradation which will inform the development of a framework which will identify peatlands for restoration. This is an example of a range of nature based initiatives currently being scoped by DAERA officials to deliver the Department’s dual objectives to deliver net zero and restore biodiversity.
The UK’s peatlands are estimated to be emitting approximately 23 Mt CO2e yr-1 of GHG emissions. Widespread and ongoing peat restoration across the UK has contributed to a reduction in total emissions with current peat restoration initiatives estimated to deliver over 4 Mt CO2e yr-1 of emissions reductions by 2050.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026549%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359661","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359661"}},{"id":"359660","reference":"AQW 26548/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the amount of money from the Assets Recovery Community Scheme that has been given to projects in the East Londonderry constituency, in each of the past five years.","answerText":"A total of £133,570 has been allocated to projects in the East Londonderry constituency in the past five years under the Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS). This is detailed in the attached Annex.\n\nFurther detail of awards made under the current and previous ARCS schemes is available at:\n\nhttps://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/asset-recovery-community-schemes","answerHtml":"A total of £133,570 has been allocated to projects in the East Londonderry constituency in the past five years under the Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS). This is detailed in the attached Annex.
Further detail of awards made under the current and previous ARCS schemes is available at:
https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/asset-recovery-community-schemes
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026548%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359660","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359660"}},{"id":"359659","reference":"AQW 26547/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-29","answerBy":"2021-12-14","answered":"2021-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any conversations he has had with the Westminster Government regarding the impact of the New Zealand-UK trade deal on local farming.","answerText":"The UK Government came to an agreement in principle with Australia on a free trade agreement on 15 June 2021 and with New Zealand on 20 October 2021. While there will be aspects of these agreements that will benefit Northern Ireland exporters, I am concerned that they do not provide adequate protection for UK agricultural producers.\n\nI have consistently made my concerns clear to UK Government on these issues in correspondence regarding both the New Zealand and Australia Agreements in Principle. I sent a letter to George Eustice on 1 November 2021 in which I raised my opposition to tariff liberalisation for sensitive products and asked that the UK Government reconsider the approach that is being taken following the announcement of the Agreement in Principle for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Zealand. In addition to this, my officials have maintained discussion with their counterparts in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Department for International Trade (DIT) and raised concerns regarding the impact that the proposed Australia and New Zealand Free Trade Agreements could have on UK and Northern Ireland agricultural producers.\n\nI have long maintained that tariff and quota protection must be retained for sensitive agricultural products and have emphasised the importance of this to UK Government Ministers. I have written to Defra Secretary of State George Eustice to express my strong opposition to the prospect of a zero tariff, zero quota Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and Australia. I have also met with, and subsequently wrote to the Minister of State for Trade Policy, Greg Hands MP to outline my concerns. I also wrote jointly with the Scottish Minister to the then Secretary of State for International Trade, Liz Truss MP and I will continue to pursue these matters with the Government.","answerHtml":"The UK Government came to an agreement in principle with Australia on a free trade agreement on 15 June 2021 and with New Zealand on 20 October 2021. While there will be aspects of these agreements that will benefit Northern Ireland exporters, I am concerned that they do not provide adequate protection for UK agricultural producers.
I have consistently made my concerns clear to UK Government on these issues in correspondence regarding both the New Zealand and Australia Agreements in Principle. I sent a letter to George Eustice on 1 November 2021 in which I raised my opposition to tariff liberalisation for sensitive products and asked that the UK Government reconsider the approach that is being taken following the announcement of the Agreement in Principle for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with New Zealand. In addition to this, my officials have maintained discussion with their counterparts in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and the Department for International Trade (DIT) and raised concerns regarding the impact that the proposed Australia and New Zealand Free Trade Agreements could have on UK and Northern Ireland agricultural producers.
I have long maintained that tariff and quota protection must be retained for sensitive agricultural products and have emphasised the importance of this to UK Government Ministers. I have written to Defra Secretary of State George Eustice to express my strong opposition to the prospect of a zero tariff, zero quota Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and Australia. I have also met with, and subsequently wrote to the Minister of State for Trade Policy, Greg Hands MP to outline my concerns. I also wrote jointly with the Scottish Minister to the then Secretary of State for International Trade, Liz Truss MP and I will continue to pursue these matters with the Government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026547%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359659"}},{"id":"359133","reference":"AQW 26305/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-24","answerBy":"2021-12-09","answered":"2021-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the (a) number; and (b) proportion of public electric vehicle charges points across Northern Ireland marked as offline in the last three months; (ii) to outline what offline means; (iii) to outline the process for fixing where an electric vehicle charge point is marked as offline and; (iv) when users can expect the charge point to be online again.","answerText":"The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in the North. ESB can be contacted directly, regarding the issues you have raised about its charge point network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.\n\nI have met with ESB to encourage it to repair non-functioning charge points. ESB recently commenced a replacement programme which will upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points. ESB has advised that this work programme is being carried out in two phases. It has confirmed that it has now completed phase 1, the replacement of the first 15 AC Fast charge posts (30 charge points), and has received very positive feedback. ESB has also advised that the second phase of 15 AC Fast charge posts (30 charge points) including 5 Rapid chargers has recently commenced. I have also encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.\n\nESB recently announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available.\n\nThis project will double the existing number of Rapid chargers and will also see the introduction of high power (200kW) charging for the first time in the North through the delivery of five high power charging (200kW) hubs in strategic locations. These high-power charging hubs can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and can provide an EV with 100km of range in as little as six minutes.\n\nI am pleased to have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. My Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. I understand the locations for the charge points has not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected between 20-30 of these will be located in the North.\n\nI am also taking a number of actions in respect of charge point infrastructure, including the introduction of changes to the planning system, which came into operation on 21 December 2020 and liaising with British Government Ministers in respect of future funding for our charge point network.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have recently had a further meeting with Minister Maclean, who was then the Minister for the Future of Transport at the Department for Transport, to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have recently written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding, from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application and I am disappointed that to date none of our councils have done so.\n\nI would again encourage councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Blue Green Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.\n\nMy Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. An Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland Options Paper has recently been consulted upon. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publically available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach which is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.\n\nYou will be aware, I have recently announced the establishment of an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, which will comprise of key organisations with a role to play in this area. The role of this Task-Force is to consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. In establishing this Task-Force, I recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence to users of ultra-low emission vehicles and improving connectivity across the North. It is planned to hold the inaugural meeting of the group shortly, subject to the availability of representatives.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and is operated on a commercial basis. It is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) public charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in the North. ESB can be contacted directly, regarding the issues you have raised about its charge point network, at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995. Whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North.
I have met with ESB to encourage it to repair non-functioning charge points. ESB recently commenced a replacement programme which will upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points. ESB has advised that this work programme is being carried out in two phases. It has confirmed that it has now completed phase 1, the replacement of the first 15 AC Fast charge posts (30 charge points), and has received very positive feedback. ESB has also advised that the second phase of 15 AC Fast charge posts (30 charge points) including 5 Rapid chargers has recently commenced. I have also encouraged ESB to introduce charging on its public network as soon as possible.
ESB recently announced it has been awarded £3.27 million from the Levelling Up Fund to expand and enhance the EV charging network which will transform the public charging experience for current and future EV drivers in the North. The Levelling Up Fund investment, further supported by ESB’s own capital investment, will replace all existing Fast (22kW) and Rapid (50kW) EV chargers across the North. The legacy infrastructure will be replaced with the fastest, most reliable and advanced technology available.
This project will double the existing number of Rapid chargers and will also see the introduction of high power (200kW) charging for the first time in the North through the delivery of five high power charging (200kW) hubs in strategic locations. These high-power charging hubs can charge multiple vehicles simultaneously and can provide an EV with 100km of range in as little as six minutes.
I am pleased to have been able to support the FASTER Project, funded through the INTERREG VA Territorial Co-operation Programme which is managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). The project has received funding through the programme to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 May 2023. My Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project. The responsibility for the implementation of the project rests with SEUPB and it has agreed a delivery schedule with the project partners, led by the East Border Region Group Limited. I understand the locations for the charge points has not as yet been finalised, however, it is expected between 20-30 of these will be located in the North.
I am also taking a number of actions in respect of charge point infrastructure, including the introduction of changes to the planning system, which came into operation on 21 December 2020 and liaising with British Government Ministers in respect of future funding for our charge point network.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. I have recently had a further meeting with Minister Maclean, who was then the Minister for the Future of Transport at the Department for Transport, to discuss the move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI during 2021-22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking. I have recently written to councils advising them that I have made available match-funding of circa £350k, subject to public expenditure processes, from within my Department’s Blue Green Fund to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). Accessing the funding, from the Blue Green Fund is dependent on our councils submitting a successful ORCS application and I am disappointed that to date none of our councils have done so.
I would again encourage councils to avail of the ORCS funding which provides a grant for 75% of the capital costs of procuring and installing charge points and associated dedicated parking bays. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Therefore, should a council make a successful application to ORCS for 75% funding, the 25% match from my Blue Green Fund will mean that the capital costs are fully covered. My Department is also represented, in an advisory capacity, on an ORCS council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide support, advice and guidance.
My Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. An Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland Options Paper has recently been consulted upon. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will include consideration of future requirements for publically available electric vehicle charge points in the North. I am keen to work within the framework of the Energy Strategy to ensure a co-ordinated and coherent approach which is focused on assessing and meeting future needs for charging infrastructure in this fast-changing policy area.
You will be aware, I have recently announced the establishment of an Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Task-Force, which will comprise of key organisations with a role to play in this area. The role of this Task-Force is to consider EV Infrastructure in the context of the overarching principles of prioritising active travel (walking, wheeling and cycling) and public transport towards decarbonising our transport system. In establishing this Task-Force, I recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure to provide confidence to users of ultra-low emission vehicles and improving connectivity across the North. It is planned to hold the inaugural meeting of the group shortly, subject to the availability of representatives.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026305%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359133","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359133"}},{"id":"359131","reference":"AQW 26303/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-24","answerBy":"2021-12-09","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether the COVID Cert App can be used to (a) prove recovery from a positive PCR rest in the previous 30-180 days; and (b) prove a negative Lateral Flow Test in the previous 48 hours; and (ii) to outline the process for submitting this information to be used with the App.","answerText":"My Department has been working to make “Recovery Certificates” available, (through the CovidCertNI app) to Northern Ireland citizens who received a positive PCR test in the preceding 30 to 180 days. They will be valid for a period of 180 days, calculated from the day after a positive PCR test.\n\nAn updated version of the COVIDCert App including the digital Recovery Certificates is due to be released in the week 6th to 12th December, subject to Quality Assurance testing and Google & Apple store review. Citizens can register in advance for an NI Direct account, thus completing the required identity checks in advance of the release of the updated app.\n\nIt will not be possible to include LFT results in the COVIDCert NI app.\n\nThe information on a positive PCR result and subsequent recovery to be included in the COVIDCert app will be automatically obtained from HSC systems","answerHtml":"My Department has been working to make “Recovery Certificates” available, (through the CovidCertNI app) to Northern Ireland citizens who received a positive PCR test in the preceding 30 to 180 days. They will be valid for a period of 180 days, calculated from the day after a positive PCR test.
An updated version of the COVIDCert App including the digital Recovery Certificates is due to be released in the week 6th to 12th December, subject to Quality Assurance testing and Google & Apple store review. Citizens can register in advance for an NI Direct account, thus completing the required identity checks in advance of the release of the updated app.
It will not be possible to include LFT results in the COVIDCert NI app.
The information on a positive PCR result and subsequent recovery to be included in the COVIDCert app will be automatically obtained from HSC systems
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026303%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359131","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359131"}},{"id":"359130","reference":"AQW 26302/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-24","answerBy":"2021-12-09","answered":"2022-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline the mandatory rules for self-isolation for adults aged 18 and over who have not received a double vaccination and have been in close contact with a positive COVID-19 case; (ii) why they must continue to self-isolate for ten days after contact, where they have received negative test result; and (iii) whether he has any plans to review the self-isolation rules for people without vaccination if they can (a) prove recovery from a positive PCR rest in the previous 30-180 days; and (b) prove a negative Lateral Flow Test in the previous 48 hours.","answerText":"The current self-isolation guidance for close contacts of a positive COVID-19 case who are aged 18 and over and who are not fully vaccinated or who are unvaccinated is that they should isolate immediately for 10 full days following last contact with the positive person. They should not end self-isolation early.\n\nVaccines continue to provide the highest level of protection against the risk of contracting COVID-19 and also reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to others and of serious illness and hospitalisation.\n\nSelf-isolation requirements are kept under active review and are updated as appropriate in line with new and emerging scientific and medical evidence.\n\nFurther information on self-isolation can be found using the following link: Coronavirus (COVID-19): self-isolating | nidirect","answerHtml":"The current self-isolation guidance for close contacts of a positive COVID-19 case who are aged 18 and over and who are not fully vaccinated or who are unvaccinated is that they should isolate immediately for 10 full days following last contact with the positive person. They should not end self-isolation early.
Vaccines continue to provide the highest level of protection against the risk of contracting COVID-19 and also reduce the risk of transmitting the infection to others and of serious illness and hospitalisation.
Self-isolation requirements are kept under active review and are updated as appropriate in line with new and emerging scientific and medical evidence.
Further information on self-isolation can be found using the following link: Coronavirus (COVID-19): self-isolating | nidirect
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026302%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359130","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359130"}},{"id":"359129","reference":"AQW 26301/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-24","answerBy":"2021-12-09","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether Novovax volunteers will be able to certify their vaccination status through the Northern Ireland travel and domestic use COVID status certification.","answerText":"Those who participated in vaccine trials have already been issued with printed letters for domestic use (as a secure printed document) which they can use in advance of the completion of the remaining work to provide access to the Covid Certification Scheme paper certificate or digital app.\n\nThe CCS work is due to be completed before mandatory certification comes into effect on 13th December. I would recommend that trial participants should register now for a NI Direct account in advance of the announcement of access to the certificates themselves.","answerHtml":"Those who participated in vaccine trials have already been issued with printed letters for domestic use (as a secure printed document) which they can use in advance of the completion of the remaining work to provide access to the Covid Certification Scheme paper certificate or digital app.
The CCS work is due to be completed before mandatory certification comes into effect on 13th December. I would recommend that trial participants should register now for a NI Direct account in advance of the announcement of access to the certificates themselves.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026301%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=359129","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=359129"}},{"id":"358867","reference":"AQW 26214/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-23","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether travel and domestic use COVID vaccination certification will document booster vaccinations; and (ii) how individuals update their information for certification having received a booster vaccination.","answerText":"The European Union has recently agreed the technical specification for the display of booster vaccinations. Work is now underway to include information on the booster vaccinations in paper and electronic (PDF format) versions of the certificates. This work should be completed shortly. Work to update the app will take longer.\n\nInformation to be included in paper and digital certificates is taken from the regional Vaccination Management System which is updated by clinical staff at the time a booster vaccination is given. Citizens do not have to provide any additional information.","answerHtml":"The European Union has recently agreed the technical specification for the display of booster vaccinations. Work is now underway to include information on the booster vaccinations in paper and electronic (PDF format) versions of the certificates. This work should be completed shortly. Work to update the app will take longer.
Information to be included in paper and digital certificates is taken from the regional Vaccination Management System which is updated by clinical staff at the time a booster vaccination is given. Citizens do not have to provide any additional information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026214%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358867","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358867"}},{"id":"358866","reference":"AQW 26213/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-23","answerBy":"2021-12-08","answered":"2021-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) to detail the number of ratepayers in East Londonderry who have challenged their non-domestic rates bill in each of the last three years; (ii) what percentage of challenges have been upheld; and (iii) to detail the cost of these errors.","answerText":"There are 3 stages of challenge for Non-Domestic Rating Assessments. The first stage is an application to the District Valuer, the second stage is an appeal to Commissioner of Valuation and the third stage is an appeal to The Lands Tribunal.\n\nFrom November 2018 to October 2021 there have been 237 External Applications (first stage application to District Valuer) seeking a change in NAV (Net Annual Value) for Non-Domestic properties located in the East Londonderry constituency. The breakdown shown by year is:\n\nNovember 2018 – October 2019 = 29\n\nNovember 2019 – October 2020 = 92\n\nNovember 2020 –October 2021 = 116\n\nThe new non-domestic valuation list took effect on 1 April 2020. The number of applications always increases in the year after a new valuation list takes effect.\n\n(ii) 98 of these cases have been closed. The outcomes were:\n\n51% resulted in no change to the NAV;\n\n28% resulted in a decrease in NAV; and\n\n21% resulted in an increase in NAV.\n\n7 cases that were closed with no change or an increase in the NAV at first stage challenge were subsequently appealed to The Commissioner of Valuation (second stage challenge) and/or Lands Tribunal (third stage challenge).\n\n139 of first stage applications remain in progress. 5 of second and third stage appeals remain in progress.\n\n(iii)Not all challenge cases which were closed resulting in a change to NAV are considered to be an error by Land & Property Services. There were many reasons why an NAV may be changed following an application or appeal, including physical changes to premises, premises being split or merged, and properties that are removed from the Valuation List.\n\nFor those challenges that resulted in a reduction in NAV, the amount of rates refunded over the past 3 years was £22,971.","answerHtml":"There are 3 stages of challenge for Non-Domestic Rating Assessments. The first stage is an application to the District Valuer, the second stage is an appeal to Commissioner of Valuation and the third stage is an appeal to The Lands Tribunal.
From November 2018 to October 2021 there have been 237 External Applications (first stage application to District Valuer) seeking a change in NAV (Net Annual Value) for Non-Domestic properties located in the East Londonderry constituency. The breakdown shown by year is:
November 2018 – October 2019 = 29
November 2019 – October 2020 = 92
November 2020 –October 2021 = 116
The new non-domestic valuation list took effect on 1 April 2020. The number of applications always increases in the year after a new valuation list takes effect.
(ii) 98 of these cases have been closed. The outcomes were:
51% resulted in no change to the NAV;
28% resulted in a decrease in NAV; and
21% resulted in an increase in NAV.
7 cases that were closed with no change or an increase in the NAV at first stage challenge were subsequently appealed to The Commissioner of Valuation (second stage challenge) and/or Lands Tribunal (third stage challenge).
139 of first stage applications remain in progress. 5 of second and third stage appeals remain in progress.
(iii)Not all challenge cases which were closed resulting in a change to NAV are considered to be an error by Land & Property Services. There were many reasons why an NAV may be changed following an application or appeal, including physical changes to premises, premises being split or merged, and properties that are removed from the Valuation List.
For those challenges that resulted in a reduction in NAV, the amount of rates refunded over the past 3 years was £22,971.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026213%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358866","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358866"}},{"id":"358865","reference":"AQW 26212/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-23","answerBy":"2021-12-08","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 25713/17-22, (i) whether she intends to place a requirement on schools to report incidences of bullying to (a) her Department; and (b) the Education Authority; and (ii) for her assessment of how useful this information would be in encouraging schools to effectively address bullying incidents.","answerText":"AQW 25713/17-22 advised that details on the number of bullying incidents are not held by my Department. The Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (the Act) does not place a requirement on schools to report incidences of bullying to my Department or the Education Authority.\n\nThe intention of the Act is to provide greater consistency in how all schools respond to bullying incidents and allegations, ensuring that all pupils are being protected to the same, best practice standards.\n\nThe recording requirement of the legislation will allow schools to monitor patterns and trends of bullying amongst their pupils and ensure it is addressed promptly and effectively as set out in their anti-bullying policy.","answerHtml":"AQW 25713/17-22 advised that details on the number of bullying incidents are not held by my Department. The Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 (the Act) does not place a requirement on schools to report incidences of bullying to my Department or the Education Authority.
The intention of the Act is to provide greater consistency in how all schools respond to bullying incidents and allegations, ensuring that all pupils are being protected to the same, best practice standards.
The recording requirement of the legislation will allow schools to monitor patterns and trends of bullying amongst their pupils and ensure it is addressed promptly and effectively as set out in their anti-bullying policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026212%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358865"}},{"id":"358864","reference":"AQW 26211/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-23","answerBy":"2021-12-08","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the pension contribution arrangements for GPs in Northern Ireland; (ii) whether GPs in Northern Ireland can opt out of paying pension contributions when they have maximised their fund; (iii) how this compares with (a) Scotland; (b) England; and (c) Wales; and (iv) what assessment has been made of the likelihood of GPs retiring early if they can opt out of their pension contributions when maximised.","answerText":"(i) The rate of contribution payable by a member of the HSC Pension Scheme, including GPs, depends on the level of their pensionable earnings. These rates are set out in the Scheme regulations. Because GPs are self-employed and do not have a standard rate of pay they provide an estimate of pensionable earnings in advance for each financial year. Contributions are deducted based on the estimated pensionable earnings provided. At the end of each year GPs then submit a certificate of actual pensionable earnings and any overpayment or underpayment of contributions is adjusted accordingly.\n\n(ii) A member of the HSC Pension Scheme, including GPs, can opt out of the Scheme at any time.\n\n(iii) The position is the same in Scotland, England and Wales.\n\n(iv) No formal assessment has been made however the Department is aware of GPs retiring early, leaving the Scheme or reducing their hours due to concerns regarding pension tax. This issue is under consideration.","answerHtml":"(i) The rate of contribution payable by a member of the HSC Pension Scheme, including GPs, depends on the level of their pensionable earnings. These rates are set out in the Scheme regulations. Because GPs are self-employed and do not have a standard rate of pay they provide an estimate of pensionable earnings in advance for each financial year. Contributions are deducted based on the estimated pensionable earnings provided. At the end of each year GPs then submit a certificate of actual pensionable earnings and any overpayment or underpayment of contributions is adjusted accordingly.
(ii) A member of the HSC Pension Scheme, including GPs, can opt out of the Scheme at any time.
(iii) The position is the same in Scotland, England and Wales.
(iv) No formal assessment has been made however the Department is aware of GPs retiring early, leaving the Scheme or reducing their hours due to concerns regarding pension tax. This issue is under consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026211%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358864"}},{"id":"358323","reference":"AQW 26009/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how many people are waiting on an assessment for suspected dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD; (ii) how many of those awaiting assessment are considered school leavers; and (iii) to detail the process for assessment for those who have since left school while on the waiting list.","answerText":"DyslexiaInformation in regards to waiting list for dyslexia assessment cannot be provided by my department as this is an educational assessment and not completed by health and social care professionals.\n\nDyspraxia\n\nHealth and Social Care Trusts do not hold specific waiting lists for Dyspraxia assessments, as this is often a joint or multi-disciplinary assessment, between different health professionals or with the Education Authority.\n\nADHD\n\nThere are currently 2,593 children waiting for an ADHD assessment in the five Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\n(ii) & (iii)\n\nThe number of those waiting assessment for dyslexia or dyspraxia who are considered school leavers cannot be provided for the reasons outlined in answer above.\n\nOf the 2,593 children waiting for an ADHD assessment, 70 were considered to be of school leaver age (over 16 years of age). Please note that Northern HSC Trust was unable to identify this cohort within their dataset.","answerHtml":"DyslexiaInformation in regards to waiting list for dyslexia assessment cannot be provided by my department as this is an educational assessment and not completed by health and social care professionals.
Dyspraxia
Health and Social Care Trusts do not hold specific waiting lists for Dyspraxia assessments, as this is often a joint or multi-disciplinary assessment, between different health professionals or with the Education Authority.
ADHD
There are currently 2,593 children waiting for an ADHD assessment in the five Health and Social Care Trusts.
(ii) & (iii)
The number of those waiting assessment for dyslexia or dyspraxia who are considered school leavers cannot be provided for the reasons outlined in answer above.
Of the 2,593 children waiting for an ADHD assessment, 70 were considered to be of school leaver age (over 16 years of age). Please note that Northern HSC Trust was unable to identify this cohort within their dataset.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026009%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358323","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358323"}},{"id":"358322","reference":"AQW 26008/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the assessment process for adults with a suspected dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD diagnosis, not previously diagnosed during their full-time education; and (ii) the support services available for adults diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD.","answerText":"Details in respect of the process utilised for a dyslexia assessment cannot be provided by my department as this is undertaken as an educational assessment and therefore it is not completed by health and social care professionals.\n\nDyspraxia assessments are carried out with input from relevant education psychologists.\n\nThere are currently no dedicated services for adults with ADHD in Northern Ireland. Health and Social Care Trusts meet the needs of adults with ADHD through generic mental health services. Adults with ADHD symptoms may be referred to Mental Health Services to have their functional symptoms e.g. anxiety, cognitive issues or depression, addressed. Psychology services give a clinical opinion, on a case by case basis, to help inform a medical decision about prescribing medication.\n\nI recently published a Mental Health Strategy 2021–2031 which acknowledges that there are many specialist interventions required across mental health services. The strategy commits to the continued development of our understanding of specialisms within a general mental health service provision and includes services for those with ADHD.","answerHtml":"Details in respect of the process utilised for a dyslexia assessment cannot be provided by my department as this is undertaken as an educational assessment and therefore it is not completed by health and social care professionals.
Dyspraxia assessments are carried out with input from relevant education psychologists.
There are currently no dedicated services for adults with ADHD in Northern Ireland. Health and Social Care Trusts meet the needs of adults with ADHD through generic mental health services. Adults with ADHD symptoms may be referred to Mental Health Services to have their functional symptoms e.g. anxiety, cognitive issues or depression, addressed. Psychology services give a clinical opinion, on a case by case basis, to help inform a medical decision about prescribing medication.
I recently published a Mental Health Strategy 2021–2031 which acknowledges that there are many specialist interventions required across mental health services. The strategy commits to the continued development of our understanding of specialisms within a general mental health service provision and includes services for those with ADHD.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026008%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358322","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358322"}},{"id":"358321","reference":"AQW 26007/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the process for verifying COVID Status Certification in Domestic Settings through (i) full vaccination status; (ii) negative Lateral Flow Test in the previous 48 hours; and (iii) proof of recovery from a positive PCR test in the previous 30 to 180 days.","answerText":"Proof of vaccination will be able to be shown with a COVID vaccination certificate. These can be electronically through the COVIDcert NI app or a paper version, which can be applied for via the phone. More information regarding this can be accessed at www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/apply-domestic-covid-vaccination-certificate. Venues will also be able to accept alternative forms of documentation to prove full vaccination alongside appropriate photographic identification.\n\nAlternatively venues will be able to view a negative lateral flow test, taken within the previous 48 hours or proof of recovery from a positive PCR test in the previous 30-180 days. For these options the evidence will be required alongside Photographic ID to prove certification.","answerHtml":"Proof of vaccination will be able to be shown with a COVID vaccination certificate. These can be electronically through the COVIDcert NI app or a paper version, which can be applied for via the phone. More information regarding this can be accessed at www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/apply-domestic-covid-vaccination-certificate. Venues will also be able to accept alternative forms of documentation to prove full vaccination alongside appropriate photographic identification.
Alternatively venues will be able to view a negative lateral flow test, taken within the previous 48 hours or proof of recovery from a positive PCR test in the previous 30-180 days. For these options the evidence will be required alongside Photographic ID to prove certification.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026007%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358321","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358321"}},{"id":"358320","reference":"AQW 26006/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he intends to introduce a paper version of COVID Status Certification in Domestic Settings for those who cannot access the digital version; (ii) to detail the application process for the paper version of travel COVID certification; and (iii) to detail the current waiting time for the paper version of the travel COVID certification.","answerText":"Secure printed certificates have been available for travel since July, with 2D barcodes (QR codes) to prevent fraud. Secure printed domestic certificates will be available to applicants.\n\nIt is possible to request paper certificates using the telephone service 0300 200 7814, available Monday to Sunday from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm. This is an application support line.\n\nIt is essential that an applicant’s identity is verified to ensure that the correct health data is sent to the correct person. This process takes longer than the digital process as applicants, unable to verify their identity online, are required to verify their identity in person by presenting documents at an appointed time and location. Once identity checks have been completed, it may take up to 10 working days for the printed certificate to arrive.\n\nThe identity verification process are in place to ensure that all applications, however submitted, are screened for fraudulent requests. Apparently fraudulent applications for certification have been detected, and continue to be submitted.\n\nAt the current time, people will be able to use their Vaccination Card alongside photographic identification to gain entry to premises covered by the regulations.","answerHtml":"Secure printed certificates have been available for travel since July, with 2D barcodes (QR codes) to prevent fraud. Secure printed domestic certificates will be available to applicants.
It is possible to request paper certificates using the telephone service 0300 200 7814, available Monday to Sunday from 8.00 am to 8.00 pm. This is an application support line.
It is essential that an applicant’s identity is verified to ensure that the correct health data is sent to the correct person. This process takes longer than the digital process as applicants, unable to verify their identity online, are required to verify their identity in person by presenting documents at an appointed time and location. Once identity checks have been completed, it may take up to 10 working days for the printed certificate to arrive.
The identity verification process are in place to ensure that all applications, however submitted, are screened for fraudulent requests. Apparently fraudulent applications for certification have been detected, and continue to be submitted.
At the current time, people will be able to use their Vaccination Card alongside photographic identification to gain entry to premises covered by the regulations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026006%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358320","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358320"}},{"id":"358319","reference":"AQW 26005/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-18","answerBy":"2021-12-03","answered":"2020-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the assessment process for adults with suspected dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD (a) in further and higher education; and (b) seeking employment; (ii) what public support is available for adults diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD; and (iii) whether students in further and higher education in Northern Ireland are able to access support services for suspected dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD without waiting on an official diagnosis.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy (DfE), in conjunction with other departments including the Department for Communities (DfC), remains committed to removing barriers for adults diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia and Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).\n\nUnder the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 (SENDO), Further Education (FE) colleges are required to make reasonable adjustments for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD), so that they can access provision. The Department assists FE colleges in fulfilling this obligation by providing funding to support SLDD students through the Additional Support Fund (ASF) provides £4.5 million funding to colleges annually to assist in the provision of additional support to enable students to complete a course of study and/or progress to further study, training, employment or to independent living.\n\nEach student enrolled in FE who declares a learning difficulty and / or disability undergoes an educational needs assessment, which determines the level of additional support required to meet their particular needs. The level of support provided is designed around the individual student and depends on both the nature of the disability and the course of study. Details of learning support needs are contained within an individual Supplementary Learning Agreement (SLA) which is jointly completed by the college representative and the learner.\n\nAll assessments are carried out by an appropriately qualified person and actively involve the student, with the level of support to be agreed by both parties. Appropriate evidence is required to be provided by the student before support arrangements can be finalised and must be provided by a suitably qualified person, for example a medical professional, an educational psychologist or a specialist assessor with a qualification in assessment at or equivalent to level 7.\n\nEach of the FE colleges has a well-established Learning Support Service across its campuses. Each campus has a Student Engagement and Support Team with a designated Learning Support Officer who carry out screening tests to identify indicators of specific learning difficulty for students who have suspected dyslexia, dyscalculia and/or dyspraxia. Where necessary, support is provided until a formal assessment is carried out.\n\nDfE provides grant support to assist eligible Higher Education students with additional course-related costs incurred as a direct result of their disability, mental-health condition or specific learning difficulty. This grant is known as the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and can support a student with specialist equipment, non-medical help, and travel costs. To qualify for DSA, a student must have a disability that meets the definition under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, as amended. This can include a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia or dyspraxia. Evidence provided of disability in the form of a report or letter from a doctor or consultant, or a diagnostic assessment from a psychologist or suitably qualified teacher is a prerequisite for DSA. Responsibility for the assessment of eligibility and administration of DSA rests with the Education Authority.\n\nAs apprentices participating on DfE funded training programmes are deemed to be in employment, under the Disability Discrimination Act it is their employer’s responsibility to arrange assessment. The Department has core programmes in place – Training for Success, Skills for Life and Work, and Apprenticeships NI through which the training providers are resourced to routinely provide additional support for participants who have a disability that impacts their programme experience.\n\nFor those seeking employment the DfC provides support for those with disabilities and health conditions, including those with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD, to progress towards, move into and stay in employment.\n\nWork Coaches in each Jobs & Benefits Offices (JBO) work with individuals who have a health condition or disability, including conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD to help, support and encourage them closer to/back to work.\n\nThe provision available to people with diagnosed dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD in seeking employment or in retaining employment includes the Condition Management Programme, JobStart, Workable (NI) and Access to Work (NI) Programmes. Individuals will be referred to the most appropriate programme(s) based on their need.\n\nAs people with diagnosed or suspected dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD may experience stress and anxiety as a barrier to work the Condition Management Programme helps these individuals manage their conditions and assist them to build their resilience when seeking employment. The programme is delivered by healthcare professionals, such as Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Mental Health Nurses.\n\nThe JobStart scheme offers young people aged 16 to 24 who are at risk of long term unemployment, including those with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD, an extended JobStart opportunity for up to nine months. These young people are matched to job opportunities by the work coaches in the local JBO, and monitored by either their work coach or by the JobStart team to ensure they are receiving the appropriate support.\n\nAccess to Work NI can help people with disabilities who wish to take up employment or who are in work and experience difficulty related to their disability. For example, it can assist with the provision of special aids and equipment to suit particular work needs arising from disability such as assistive technology for people with dyslexia.\n\nWorkable (NI) offers a flexible range of long-term support to help people with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD to find and keep work. Workable (NI) tailors support for individuals to meet their specific needs in the workplace including one-to-one help from an Employment Support Officer to help them adapt to the demands of the job, extra training for the employer and disability awareness training for the employer and work colleagues.\n\nIn addition, DfC also provides match funding to a number of European Social Fund projects, funding interventions to enhance and extend employment opportunities, particularly for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market including dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy (DfE), in conjunction with other departments including the Department for Communities (DfC), remains committed to removing barriers for adults diagnosed with dyslexia, dyspraxia and Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Under the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 (SENDO), Further Education (FE) colleges are required to make reasonable adjustments for students with learning difficulties and/or disabilities (SLDD), so that they can access provision. The Department assists FE colleges in fulfilling this obligation by providing funding to support SLDD students through the Additional Support Fund (ASF) provides £4.5 million funding to colleges annually to assist in the provision of additional support to enable students to complete a course of study and/or progress to further study, training, employment or to independent living.
Each student enrolled in FE who declares a learning difficulty and / or disability undergoes an educational needs assessment, which determines the level of additional support required to meet their particular needs. The level of support provided is designed around the individual student and depends on both the nature of the disability and the course of study. Details of learning support needs are contained within an individual Supplementary Learning Agreement (SLA) which is jointly completed by the college representative and the learner.
All assessments are carried out by an appropriately qualified person and actively involve the student, with the level of support to be agreed by both parties. Appropriate evidence is required to be provided by the student before support arrangements can be finalised and must be provided by a suitably qualified person, for example a medical professional, an educational psychologist or a specialist assessor with a qualification in assessment at or equivalent to level 7.
Each of the FE colleges has a well-established Learning Support Service across its campuses. Each campus has a Student Engagement and Support Team with a designated Learning Support Officer who carry out screening tests to identify indicators of specific learning difficulty for students who have suspected dyslexia, dyscalculia and/or dyspraxia. Where necessary, support is provided until a formal assessment is carried out.
DfE provides grant support to assist eligible Higher Education students with additional course-related costs incurred as a direct result of their disability, mental-health condition or specific learning difficulty. This grant is known as the Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) and can support a student with specialist equipment, non-medical help, and travel costs. To qualify for DSA, a student must have a disability that meets the definition under the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, as amended. This can include a specific learning difficulty such as dyslexia or dyspraxia. Evidence provided of disability in the form of a report or letter from a doctor or consultant, or a diagnostic assessment from a psychologist or suitably qualified teacher is a prerequisite for DSA. Responsibility for the assessment of eligibility and administration of DSA rests with the Education Authority.
As apprentices participating on DfE funded training programmes are deemed to be in employment, under the Disability Discrimination Act it is their employer’s responsibility to arrange assessment. The Department has core programmes in place – Training for Success, Skills for Life and Work, and Apprenticeships NI through which the training providers are resourced to routinely provide additional support for participants who have a disability that impacts their programme experience.
For those seeking employment the DfC provides support for those with disabilities and health conditions, including those with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD, to progress towards, move into and stay in employment.
Work Coaches in each Jobs & Benefits Offices (JBO) work with individuals who have a health condition or disability, including conditions such as dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD to help, support and encourage them closer to/back to work.
The provision available to people with diagnosed dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD in seeking employment or in retaining employment includes the Condition Management Programme, JobStart, Workable (NI) and Access to Work (NI) Programmes. Individuals will be referred to the most appropriate programme(s) based on their need.
As people with diagnosed or suspected dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD may experience stress and anxiety as a barrier to work the Condition Management Programme helps these individuals manage their conditions and assist them to build their resilience when seeking employment. The programme is delivered by healthcare professionals, such as Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists and Mental Health Nurses.
The JobStart scheme offers young people aged 16 to 24 who are at risk of long term unemployment, including those with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD, an extended JobStart opportunity for up to nine months. These young people are matched to job opportunities by the work coaches in the local JBO, and monitored by either their work coach or by the JobStart team to ensure they are receiving the appropriate support.
Access to Work NI can help people with disabilities who wish to take up employment or who are in work and experience difficulty related to their disability. For example, it can assist with the provision of special aids and equipment to suit particular work needs arising from disability such as assistive technology for people with dyslexia.
Workable (NI) offers a flexible range of long-term support to help people with dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD to find and keep work. Workable (NI) tailors support for individuals to meet their specific needs in the workplace including one-to-one help from an Employment Support Officer to help them adapt to the demands of the job, extra training for the employer and disability awareness training for the employer and work colleagues.
In addition, DfC also provides match funding to a number of European Social Fund projects, funding interventions to enhance and extend employment opportunities, particularly for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market including dyslexia, dyspraxia and ADHD.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2026005%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358319","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358319"}},{"id":"358111","reference":"AQW 25939/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-17","answerBy":"2021-12-02","answered":"2021-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline his proposals regarding the requirement to have the booster vaccination to receive a COVID-19 vaccination domestic passport, for those groups of people who are invited to receive the booster vaccine.","answerText":"There is no requirement to receive a booster vaccination in order to avail of the COVIDCert NI documentation for use in the listed Domestic Hospitality or Events.","answerHtml":"There is no requirement to receive a booster vaccination in order to avail of the COVIDCert NI documentation for use in the listed Domestic Hospitality or Events.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025939%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358111"}},{"id":"358109","reference":"AQW 25937/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-17","answerBy":"2021-12-02","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what timeframe he is proposing for the use of domestic COVID-19 vaccination passports; (ii) whether this timeframe will be related to winter pressures in health and social care settings; (iii) how often he will monitor the effectiveness of the domestic vaccination passport; and (iv) at what point he will consider withdrawing the use of domestic vaccination passports.","answerText":"At their meeting on 17 November 2021 The Executive agreed to introduce the use of COVID-status Certification from 29 November. The provision for COVID-status Certification was contained within the Executive’s Autumn/Winter Contingency Plan, if required, if cases continued to rise alongside normal winter pressures. As cases and hospitalisations continue to rise and the expected normal winter pressures have put hospital capacities under severe pressure, as seen with examples of ambulances being turned away, the decision has been made to implement these regulations.\n\nAs with all regulations engagement will take place with relevant bodies regarding compliance and enforcement. Effectiveness of all Regulations are reviewed every 4 weeks, and as soon as regulations are no longer required they will be removed.","answerHtml":"At their meeting on 17 November 2021 The Executive agreed to introduce the use of COVID-status Certification from 29 November. The provision for COVID-status Certification was contained within the Executive’s Autumn/Winter Contingency Plan, if required, if cases continued to rise alongside normal winter pressures. As cases and hospitalisations continue to rise and the expected normal winter pressures have put hospital capacities under severe pressure, as seen with examples of ambulances being turned away, the decision has been made to implement these regulations.
As with all regulations engagement will take place with relevant bodies regarding compliance and enforcement. Effectiveness of all Regulations are reviewed every 4 weeks, and as soon as regulations are no longer required they will be removed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025937%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358109"}},{"id":"358108","reference":"AQW 25936/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-17","answerBy":"2021-12-02","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline his proposed arrangements for a domestic COVID-19 vaccination passport for people (i) unable to receive a vaccination for medical reasons; and (ii) who have received a positive COVID-19 test within the last 18 months.","answerText":"An exemption to COVID-status Certification will be in place for people who cannot be vaccinated for clinical reasons, and a process will be in place for them to be issued with an exemption.\n\nProof of recovery from a positive PCR test within the last 30-180 days will be accepted as proof of COVID status.","answerHtml":"An exemption to COVID-status Certification will be in place for people who cannot be vaccinated for clinical reasons, and a process will be in place for them to be issued with an exemption.
Proof of recovery from a positive PCR test within the last 30-180 days will be accepted as proof of COVID status.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025936%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358108"}},{"id":"358107","reference":"AQW 25935/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-17","answerBy":"2021-12-02","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health where his proposed domestic COVID-19 passport will be required; and how he plans to implement and enforce the use of such passports.","answerText":"As part of the Executives Autumn/Winter contingency plan, the option to deploy the use of COVID-status certification had been retained if required to provide a targeted and proportionate means to reduce risk while maximizing our ability to keep open certain settings and events where transmission is higher.\n\nAt their meeting on 17 November 2021 The Executive agreed to introduce the use of COVID-status Certification from 29 November. The settings in which this will be required are as follows:\n\nindoor events (where some or all of the audience are not normally seated) with 500 or more attendees;\n\noutdoor events (where some or all of the audience are not normally seated) with 4,000 or more attendees;\n\nevents where more than 10,000 people will be present, regardless of whether or not they will be seated;\n\nNightclubs;\n\nHospitality premises which serve food and/or drink on the premises;\n\nCinemas, theatres and conference halls.\n\nAs with all COVID-19 related regulations engagement has taken place with PSNI and other bodies regarding enforcement action and penalties that will be in place for those who do not comply, however the priority remains that we continue to engage through communication and public messaging to drive compliance levels voluntarily without the need for enforcement. These regulations will be in place to reduce the risk of transmission and keep us and those around safe.","answerHtml":"As part of the Executives Autumn/Winter contingency plan, the option to deploy the use of COVID-status certification had been retained if required to provide a targeted and proportionate means to reduce risk while maximizing our ability to keep open certain settings and events where transmission is higher.
At their meeting on 17 November 2021 The Executive agreed to introduce the use of COVID-status Certification from 29 November. The settings in which this will be required are as follows:
indoor events (where some or all of the audience are not normally seated) with 500 or more attendees;
outdoor events (where some or all of the audience are not normally seated) with 4,000 or more attendees;
events where more than 10,000 people will be present, regardless of whether or not they will be seated;
Nightclubs;
Hospitality premises which serve food and/or drink on the premises;
Cinemas, theatres and conference halls.
As with all COVID-19 related regulations engagement has taken place with PSNI and other bodies regarding enforcement action and penalties that will be in place for those who do not comply, however the priority remains that we continue to engage through communication and public messaging to drive compliance levels voluntarily without the need for enforcement. These regulations will be in place to reduce the risk of transmission and keep us and those around safe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025935%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=358107","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=358107"}},{"id":"357861","reference":"AQW 25847/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-16","answerBy":"2021-12-01","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the average waiting time, after referral, for a child to receive an autism assessment by an educational psychologist, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The number of individuals waiting for an autism assessment in each Health and Social Care Trust, by length of time, is set out in Table 1.\n\nThe Department of Health does not hold this information broken down by the participants of the assessment panel nor broken down by constituency.\n\nTable 1: Waiting times, after referral, for a child to receive an autism assessment/diagnosis by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust as at 30th September 2021.\n\nHSC Trust\tLength of time waiting (weeks)\n0-13\t>13-26\t>26-52\t>52\tTotal\nBelfast\t269\t247\t425\t1,079\t2,020\nNorthern\t385\t497\t744\t587\t2,213\nSouth Eastern*\t79\t0\t0\t0\t79\nSouthern\t146\t0\t0\t0\t146\nWestern\t178\t192\t315\t542\t1,227\nNorthern Ireland\t1,057\t936\t1,484\t2,208\t5,685\n\nSource: Monthly ‘Children’s Autism Waiting Times’ returns from HSC Trusts. Average waiting times are not collected.\n\n*SEHSCT has different pathways for this service hence the variation from that in the other four HSC Trusts.","answerHtml":"The number of individuals waiting for an autism assessment in each Health and Social Care Trust, by length of time, is set out in Table 1.
The Department of Health does not hold this information broken down by the participants of the assessment panel nor broken down by constituency.
Table 1: Waiting times, after referral, for a child to receive an autism assessment/diagnosis by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust as at 30th September 2021.
| HSC Trust | Length of time waiting (weeks) | ||||
| 0-13 | >13-26 | >26-52 | >52 | Total | |
| Belfast | 269 | 247 | 425 | 1,079 | 2,020 |
| Northern | 385 | 497 | 744 | 587 | 2,213 |
| South Eastern* | 79 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 79 |
| Southern | 146 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 146 |
| Western | 178 | 192 | 315 | 542 | 1,227 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,057 | 936 | 1,484 | 2,208 | 5,685 |
Source: Monthly ‘Children’s Autism Waiting Times’ returns from HSC Trusts. Average waiting times are not collected.
*SEHSCT has different pathways for this service hence the variation from that in the other four HSC Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025847%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357861"}},{"id":"357860","reference":"AQW 25846/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-16","answerBy":"2021-12-01","answered":"2021-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on age discrimination legislation for accessing goods, services and facilities.","answerText":"Consideration of extending age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services was commenced under the previous Executive. A decision was not made in respect of the scope of that legislation prior to the end of the last Assembly. The issue requires further work to inform the potential scope of any legislation. Officials are considering next steps to advance this matter however given current pressures legislation is unlikely in this Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"Consideration of extending age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services was commenced under the previous Executive. A decision was not made in respect of the scope of that legislation prior to the end of the last Assembly. The issue requires further work to inform the potential scope of any legislation. Officials are considering next steps to advance this matter however given current pressures legislation is unlikely in this Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025846%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357860"}},{"id":"357859","reference":"AQW 25845/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-16","answerBy":"2021-12-01","answered":"2022-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the estimated number of people with long COVID; and (ii) the support available to them.","answerText":"Recent analysis by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimated that 1.27m people in private households in the UK reported experiencing long COVID of any duration. This relates to self-reported long COVID, rather than clinically diagnosed ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome. Of those people 29,000 were from in Northern Ireland.\n\nEstablishing dedicated services for the assessment and treatment of Post-Covid-19 syndrome patients has been a priority for me. I was therefore pleased to announce the launch the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for patients with post Covid-19 syndrome in Northern Ireland.\n\nFrom 1st November 2021, one-stop-shop multidisciplinary assessment clinics have been accepting referrals for post-Covid-19 syndrome. These clinics will offer services across multiple disciplines including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing. The clinics will allow people to have a comprehensive assessment of their condition and will help them access the services and expert advice they need to support them in their recovery.\n\nThe assessment clinic is one element of the suite of services that are being established for post-Covid-19 patients. Other elements include:\n\nBespoke pulmonary rehabilitation / dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms post COVID-19;\n\nAdditional support for patients discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19);\n\nStrengthening psychology support to all Trusts; and,\n\nSignposting and access to self-management resources.","answerHtml":"Recent analysis by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimated that 1.27m people in private households in the UK reported experiencing long COVID of any duration. This relates to self-reported long COVID, rather than clinically diagnosed ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome. Of those people 29,000 were from in Northern Ireland.
Establishing dedicated services for the assessment and treatment of Post-Covid-19 syndrome patients has been a priority for me. I was therefore pleased to announce the launch the first dedicated assessment and treatment services for patients with post Covid-19 syndrome in Northern Ireland.
From 1st November 2021, one-stop-shop multidisciplinary assessment clinics have been accepting referrals for post-Covid-19 syndrome. These clinics will offer services across multiple disciplines including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and nursing. The clinics will allow people to have a comprehensive assessment of their condition and will help them access the services and expert advice they need to support them in their recovery.
The assessment clinic is one element of the suite of services that are being established for post-Covid-19 patients. Other elements include:
Bespoke pulmonary rehabilitation / dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms post COVID-19;
Additional support for patients discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19);
Strengthening psychology support to all Trusts; and,
Signposting and access to self-management resources.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025845%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357859"}},{"id":"357858","reference":"AQW 25844/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-16","answerBy":"2021-12-01","answered":"2021-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the support and funding her Department has provided to Portrush Sea Cadets in the last five years.","answerText":"My Department’s Small Capital Grants Programme provides grants of up to £5,000 to voluntary and community organisations, working in partnership, to purchase items of equipment and minor capital works to improve premises.\n\nIn 2021/22 Portrush Sea Cadets applied to the programme in partnership with Carrickfergus Sea Cadets and Lisburn Sea Cadets and the group received a grant of £3,493 towards the purchase of seven laptops.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Small Capital Grants Programme provides grants of up to £5,000 to voluntary and community organisations, working in partnership, to purchase items of equipment and minor capital works to improve premises.
In 2021/22 Portrush Sea Cadets applied to the programme in partnership with Carrickfergus Sea Cadets and Lisburn Sea Cadets and the group received a grant of £3,493 towards the purchase of seven laptops.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025844%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357858"}},{"id":"357857","reference":"AQW 25843/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-16","answerBy":"2021-12-01","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on plans to review sentencing in Northern Ireland, including for those who cause death while driving.","answerText":"My Department’s review of sentencing policy in Northern Ireland resulted in 54 recommendations, based upon the responses received to the consultation.\n\nIn relation to causing death or serious injury by dangerous driving, I have agreed that the maximum sentence should be increased from the current 14 years imprisonment to 20 years. I have also decided that, for repeat offenders, a life sentence should be available to the Court.\n\nAs regards disqualification from driving for those offenders, I have agreed that the mandatory minimum period should increase from 2 to 4 years, and, for a repeat offender within a 10 year period, the minimum disqualification period should be 6 years.\n\nIn addition, I have agreed that the law should be amended so that any period of disqualification comes into effect from the date the offender is released from prison.\n\nI believe these measures will provide the courts with a stronger sentencing framework which will help to deter offending and punish those drivers found guilty of the most serious offences.\n\nMy officials briefed the Justice Committee on the proposed way forward on Thursday 15 April 2021. The report on the way forward setting out my decisions was published on 21 April and can be seen online at Sentencing Policy Review - Way Forward Report\n\nAs outlined in that report, I consider it important that all legislative recommendations should be delivered together in a single focussed Sentencing Bill. My officials are taking preparatory work forward with a view to introducing the legislation early in the next mandate.","answerHtml":"My Department’s review of sentencing policy in Northern Ireland resulted in 54 recommendations, based upon the responses received to the consultation.
In relation to causing death or serious injury by dangerous driving, I have agreed that the maximum sentence should be increased from the current 14 years imprisonment to 20 years. I have also decided that, for repeat offenders, a life sentence should be available to the Court.
As regards disqualification from driving for those offenders, I have agreed that the mandatory minimum period should increase from 2 to 4 years, and, for a repeat offender within a 10 year period, the minimum disqualification period should be 6 years.
In addition, I have agreed that the law should be amended so that any period of disqualification comes into effect from the date the offender is released from prison.
I believe these measures will provide the courts with a stronger sentencing framework which will help to deter offending and punish those drivers found guilty of the most serious offences.
My officials briefed the Justice Committee on the proposed way forward on Thursday 15 April 2021. The report on the way forward setting out my decisions was published on 21 April and can be seen online at Sentencing Policy Review - Way Forward Report
As outlined in that report, I consider it important that all legislative recommendations should be delivered together in a single focussed Sentencing Bill. My officials are taking preparatory work forward with a view to introducing the legislation early in the next mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025843%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357857"}},{"id":"357638","reference":"AQW 25772/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail any plans she has to improve and increase information computer technology education in schools; and (ii) for her assessment of how meeting the needs of industry can be bettered with improving skills in this area.","answerText":"My Department and the Department for the Economy are working collaboratively to develop a framework for 14-19 education which will help ensure that young people have the appropriate skills to thrive and work in the 21st Century. A key part of that work is to equip young people with the skills they need to succeed in the digital economy and connect to jobs of the future. My Department is committed to promoting the development of digital skills and uptake of qualifications in digital technology.\n\nICT is one of the three statutory cross-curricular skills at the heart of the Northern Ireland (NI) curriculum. Schools should ensure that pupils develop the three cross-curricular skills of Communication, Using Mathematics and Using ICT throughout their time in compulsory education. Using ICT aims to develop pupils’ digital skills and encourages them to handle and communicate information, solve problems, pose questions and be creative in using digital technology.\n\nMy Department also funds Business in the Community’s Time to Code Programme for Key Stage 2 pupils, as well as a range of programmes developed by Sentinus, including coding activities in primary and post-primary schools. Additionally, this year my Department has funded a coding programme for Year 6 pupils delivered by Sentinus as part of its NI1100 programme.\n\nRecently, my Department collaborated with the Department for the Economy, Civica and a wide range of businesses to support the successful delivery of NI Digital Awareness Week for schools. This innovative online careers event was designed to showcase the many varied jobs and opportunities in the IT sector.\n\nCCEA has worked closely with industry to develop modern, fit for purpose qualifications and currently offers GCSE and GCE Digital Technology along with GCE Software Systems Development qualifications. Over 70% of post-primary schools offer a GCSE in Digital Technology.\n\nTo support effective delivery of the curriculum, CCEA has developed a Digital Skills Progression Pathway which illustrates the opportunities for digital skills development that the curriculum offers. It suggests potential progression pathways through learning from Foundation Stage, through the primary key stages, to post-primary and qualifications.","answerHtml":"My Department and the Department for the Economy are working collaboratively to develop a framework for 14-19 education which will help ensure that young people have the appropriate skills to thrive and work in the 21st Century. A key part of that work is to equip young people with the skills they need to succeed in the digital economy and connect to jobs of the future. My Department is committed to promoting the development of digital skills and uptake of qualifications in digital technology.
ICT is one of the three statutory cross-curricular skills at the heart of the Northern Ireland (NI) curriculum. Schools should ensure that pupils develop the three cross-curricular skills of Communication, Using Mathematics and Using ICT throughout their time in compulsory education. Using ICT aims to develop pupils’ digital skills and encourages them to handle and communicate information, solve problems, pose questions and be creative in using digital technology.
My Department also funds Business in the Community’s Time to Code Programme for Key Stage 2 pupils, as well as a range of programmes developed by Sentinus, including coding activities in primary and post-primary schools. Additionally, this year my Department has funded a coding programme for Year 6 pupils delivered by Sentinus as part of its NI1100 programme.
Recently, my Department collaborated with the Department for the Economy, Civica and a wide range of businesses to support the successful delivery of NI Digital Awareness Week for schools. This innovative online careers event was designed to showcase the many varied jobs and opportunities in the IT sector.
CCEA has worked closely with industry to develop modern, fit for purpose qualifications and currently offers GCSE and GCE Digital Technology along with GCE Software Systems Development qualifications. Over 70% of post-primary schools offer a GCSE in Digital Technology.
To support effective delivery of the curriculum, CCEA has developed a Digital Skills Progression Pathway which illustrates the opportunities for digital skills development that the curriculum offers. It suggests potential progression pathways through learning from Foundation Stage, through the primary key stages, to post-primary and qualifications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025772%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357638","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357638"}},{"id":"357637","reference":"AQW 25771/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what efforts have been made to quantify the level of carbon emissions offsetting being achieved by the agricultural and farming sectors.","answerText":"Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from sources within farms are reported in the NI GHG inventory which forms part of the UK GHG inventory submission to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The UK GHG inventory is compiled and maintained by a consortium led by Ricardo Energy & Environment under contract to the UK Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy.\n\nThe inventory is conducted in accordance with international protocols and methodological guidance and uses the best available data from UK and international research for each emission source. Estimates of emissions sources and sinks for forest, croplands, grasslands, wetlands and harvested wood products are included in the Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry sector.\n\nAccurately quantifying carbon stocks in our farmed landscape is complex and a body of scientific research is undertaken to improve estimates and reduce uncertainties. Ongoing examples include: work by Forest Research on Quantifying the Sustainable Forestry Carbon Cycle which is nearing completion and; work by the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute to more accurately quantify the carbon sequestration potential of improved grasslands in NI.\n\nNorthern Ireland Environment Agency work with partners on the development, implementation and funding of peatland projects through DAERA Environment Fund, current INTERREG funding, and the Environmental Farming Scheme. This includes projects that better inform our understanding of the carbon stock and GHG emissions of NI peatlands; actively restore NI peatlands; and, identify the carbon and biodiversity assets of farms across Northern Ireland (Nature Friendly Farming Network project).\n\nThe College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has recently carried out a body of work reviewing carbon calculators that could be used at farm scale. CAFRE is also working to create a holistic carbon balance across their farms and as part of this, a LiDAR survey to quantify the carbon storage and estimated sequestration in CAFRE’s hedgerows and woodland has been carried out.","answerHtml":"Greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from sources within farms are reported in the NI GHG inventory which forms part of the UK GHG inventory submission to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. The UK GHG inventory is compiled and maintained by a consortium led by Ricardo Energy & Environment under contract to the UK Department for Business, Energy, and Industrial Strategy.
The inventory is conducted in accordance with international protocols and methodological guidance and uses the best available data from UK and international research for each emission source. Estimates of emissions sources and sinks for forest, croplands, grasslands, wetlands and harvested wood products are included in the Land Use, Land-Use Change and Forestry sector.
Accurately quantifying carbon stocks in our farmed landscape is complex and a body of scientific research is undertaken to improve estimates and reduce uncertainties. Ongoing examples include: work by Forest Research on Quantifying the Sustainable Forestry Carbon Cycle which is nearing completion and; work by the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute to more accurately quantify the carbon sequestration potential of improved grasslands in NI.
Northern Ireland Environment Agency work with partners on the development, implementation and funding of peatland projects through DAERA Environment Fund, current INTERREG funding, and the Environmental Farming Scheme. This includes projects that better inform our understanding of the carbon stock and GHG emissions of NI peatlands; actively restore NI peatlands; and, identify the carbon and biodiversity assets of farms across Northern Ireland (Nature Friendly Farming Network project).
The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) has recently carried out a body of work reviewing carbon calculators that could be used at farm scale. CAFRE is also working to create a holistic carbon balance across their farms and as part of this, a LiDAR survey to quantify the carbon storage and estimated sequestration in CAFRE’s hedgerows and woodland has been carried out.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025771%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357637","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357637"}},{"id":"357635","reference":"AQW 25769/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the Healthy Happy Minds school counselling pilot scheme; and (ii) for her assessment of how such services could benefit primary school children throughout Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Healthy Happy Minds therapeutic and counselling service was launched on 2 November 2021. £5m has been made available for 2021/22 to support this service across all primary schools, special schools with a primary cohort, and primary EOTAS provisions. Alongside counselling, it includes a range of therapeutic interventions including play, drama, music, art and equine assisted therapy & learning.\n\nSchools have now received their initial budget allocations to secure appropriate support for their children which can also be used to fund appropriate existing provision. I recognise that the delay in launching this pilot has reduced the time available for schools to provide support so a £2.5m supplementary pressure has been identified with a view to extending the pilot until the end of June 2022.\n\nI am mindful of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the emotional health and wellbeing of our children and young people. Through the Healthy Happy Minds pilot additional support will be available when needed to help them express and manage their feelings in an age appropriate way, supporting them to build their confidence and self-esteem, and help them to engage with learning.\n\nThe findings of an independent evaluation will help determine its effectiveness, and provide an evidence base in going forward.","answerHtml":"The Healthy Happy Minds therapeutic and counselling service was launched on 2 November 2021. £5m has been made available for 2021/22 to support this service across all primary schools, special schools with a primary cohort, and primary EOTAS provisions. Alongside counselling, it includes a range of therapeutic interventions including play, drama, music, art and equine assisted therapy & learning.
Schools have now received their initial budget allocations to secure appropriate support for their children which can also be used to fund appropriate existing provision. I recognise that the delay in launching this pilot has reduced the time available for schools to provide support so a £2.5m supplementary pressure has been identified with a view to extending the pilot until the end of June 2022.
I am mindful of the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the emotional health and wellbeing of our children and young people. Through the Healthy Happy Minds pilot additional support will be available when needed to help them express and manage their feelings in an age appropriate way, supporting them to build their confidence and self-esteem, and help them to engage with learning.
The findings of an independent evaluation will help determine its effectiveness, and provide an evidence base in going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025769%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357635","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357635"}},{"id":"357634","reference":"AQW 25768/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-15","answerBy":"2021-11-30","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the average waiting time for IVF treatment; and (ii) what steps he is taking to improve this.","answerText":"Estimated waiting times can be found https://belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/rfc/treatment-options/treatment-waiting-times/#IVF. The website will be updated if there are significant changes. The Regional Fertility Centre (RFC) is unable to provide an average waiting time for IVF treatment as variables can affect it, such as some patients no longer requiring an appointment.\n\nThe RFC has implemented a waiting list initiative including weekend and evening working which will bring IVF waiting lists down to pre-pandemic levels by March 2022.","answerHtml":"Estimated waiting times can be found https://belfasttrust.hscni.net/services/rfc/treatment-options/treatment-waiting-times/#IVF. The website will be updated if there are significant changes. The Regional Fertility Centre (RFC) is unable to provide an average waiting time for IVF treatment as variables can affect it, such as some patients no longer requiring an appointment.
The RFC has implemented a waiting list initiative including weekend and evening working which will bring IVF waiting lists down to pre-pandemic levels by March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025768%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357634","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357634"}},{"id":"357448","reference":"AQW 25713/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-12","answerBy":"2021-11-29","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of incidents of (i) bullying; and (ii) alleged bullying, recorded in schools since the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 came into operation on 1 September 2021, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"This information is not held by my Department.\n\nThe Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 does not place a requirement on schools to report incidences of bullying to my Department or the Education Authority.\n\nThe information is held by schools.","answerHtml":"This information is not held by my Department.
The Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 does not place a requirement on schools to report incidences of bullying to my Department or the Education Authority.
The information is held by schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025713%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357448","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357448"}},{"id":"357447","reference":"AQW 25712/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-12","answerBy":"2021-11-29","answered":"2021-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of hospitality businesses, and the number of employees in this sector, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR) provides information on the number of businesses registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) or Pay As You Earn (PAYE), and the Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES) provides information on the number of employees.\n\nThe most recent IDBR data shows there were 4,270 businesses operating within the hospitality sector1 in March 2021. Table 1 below provides a breakdown of these businesses by Assembly Area.\n\nThe most recent BRES data that supports industry breakdowns relates to September 2019 and shows there were 52,648 employee jobs in the hospitality sector1. Table 2 below provides a breakdown of these employee jobs by Assembly Area.\n\n1Includes: Hotels and similar accommodation; Holiday and other short stay accommodation; Camping grounds, recreational vehicle parks and trailer parks; Other accommodation; Restaurants and mobile food service activities; Event catering and other food service activities; Beverage serving activities.\n\nTable 1: Number of businesses operating within the hospitality sector by Assembly Area, March 2021\n\nAssembly Area\tNumber of Businesses\nBelfast East\t220\nBelfast North\t275\nBelfast South\t430\nBelfast West\t190\nEast Antrim\t185\nEast Londonderry\t265\nFermanagh and South Tyrone\t260\nFoyle\t225\nLagan Valley\t235\nMid Ulster\t210\nNewry and Armagh\t260\nNorth Antrim\t250\nNorth Down\t210\nSouth Antrim\t170\nSouth Down\t275\nStrangford\t190\nUpper Bann\t230\nWest Tyrone\t190\nTotal\t4,270\n\nSource: Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR)\n\nTable 2: Number of employee jobs within the hospitality sector by Assembly Area, September 2019\n\nAssembly Area\tEmployee Jobs\nBelfast East\t3,389\nBelfast North\t2,987\nBelfast South\t9,660\nBelfast West\t1,757\nEast Antrim\t1,924\nEast Londonderry\t3,284\nFermanagh and South Tyrone\t2,962\nFoyle\t2,991\nLagan Valley\t2,324\nMid Ulster\t1,817\nNewry and Armagh\t2,538\nNorth Antrim\t3,020\nNorth Down\t2,502\nSouth Antrim\t2,293\nSouth Down\t2,818\nStrangford\t1,874\nUpper Bann\t2,700\nWest Tyrone\t1,809\nTotal\t52,648\n\nSource: Business Register and Employment Survey\n\nFigures may not sum due to rounding.","answerHtml":"The Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR) provides information on the number of businesses registered for Value Added Tax (VAT) or Pay As You Earn (PAYE), and the Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES) provides information on the number of employees.
The most recent IDBR data shows there were 4,270 businesses operating within the hospitality sector1 in March 2021. Table 1 below provides a breakdown of these businesses by Assembly Area.
The most recent BRES data that supports industry breakdowns relates to September 2019 and shows there were 52,648 employee jobs in the hospitality sector1. Table 2 below provides a breakdown of these employee jobs by Assembly Area.
1Includes: Hotels and similar accommodation; Holiday and other short stay accommodation; Camping grounds, recreational vehicle parks and trailer parks; Other accommodation; Restaurants and mobile food service activities; Event catering and other food service activities; Beverage serving activities.
Table 1: Number of businesses operating within the hospitality sector by Assembly Area, March 2021
| Assembly Area | Number of Businesses |
| Belfast East | 220 |
| Belfast North | 275 |
| Belfast South | 430 |
| Belfast West | 190 |
| East Antrim | 185 |
| East Londonderry | 265 |
| Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 260 |
| Foyle | 225 |
| Lagan Valley | 235 |
| Mid Ulster | 210 |
| Newry and Armagh | 260 |
| North Antrim | 250 |
| North Down | 210 |
| South Antrim | 170 |
| South Down | 275 |
| Strangford | 190 |
| Upper Bann | 230 |
| West Tyrone | 190 |
| Total | 4,270 |
Source: Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR)
Table 2: Number of employee jobs within the hospitality sector by Assembly Area, September 2019
| Assembly Area | Employee Jobs |
| Belfast East | 3,389 |
| Belfast North | 2,987 |
| Belfast South | 9,660 |
| Belfast West | 1,757 |
| East Antrim | 1,924 |
| East Londonderry | 3,284 |
| Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 2,962 |
| Foyle | 2,991 |
| Lagan Valley | 2,324 |
| Mid Ulster | 1,817 |
| Newry and Armagh | 2,538 |
| North Antrim | 3,020 |
| North Down | 2,502 |
| South Antrim | 2,293 |
| South Down | 2,818 |
| Strangford | 1,874 |
| Upper Bann | 2,700 |
| West Tyrone | 1,809 |
| Total | 52,648 |
Source: Business Register and Employment Survey
Figures may not sum due to rounding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025712%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357447","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357447"}},{"id":"357446","reference":"AQW 25711/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-12","answerBy":"2021-11-29","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people diagnosed with (a) HIV; and (b) AIDS, in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency; and (ii) the treatment and support available to those patients.","answerText":"The latest available figures for Northern Ireland are at: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/2020-12/HIV%20%20Report%202020%20tables%20and%20charts%20(2019%20data).pdf. This information is not available broken down by constituency. The number of people diagnosed with AIDS each year is small, usually under 5 per year, and cannot be released at anything under a Northern Ireland level to protect patient confidentiality.\n\nIn the 1980s and early 90s, most people with HIV were eventually diagnosed with AIDS. Now, thanks to modern antiretroviral treatment, very few people in the UK develop serious HIV-related illnesses.\n\nOther treatments available include PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV) (sometimes called PEPSE), this is a combination of HIV drugs that can stop the virus taking hold. It can be used after the event if a person has been at risk of HIV transmission. To work, PEP must be taken within 72 hours (three days), and ideally should be taken within 24 hours. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is currently available to high risk groups and is a drug taken by HIV-negative people before and after sex that reduces the risk of getting HIV.\n\nThere is wide ranging support available to those living with HIV from the statutory, community and voluntary sector. The PHA and the HSCB through the BHSCT provide regional HIV training sessions for all HSC staff. This aims to improve knowledge and raise awareness of HIV, including the impact of prejudice, stigma and support services available for people living with or affected by HIV. Positive Life, the only dedicated HIV support charity in Northern Ireland supporting Persons Living with HIV, receives funding from my Department, and the PHA to provide support services. The Rainbow Project, which also provides help, advice, and free, confidential & non-judgemental rapid HIV testing at its Belfast and Foyle centres, also receives funding from my Department and the PHA.","answerHtml":"The latest available figures for Northern Ireland are at: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/2020-12/HIV%20%20Report%202020%20tables%20and%20charts%20(2019%20data).pdf. This information is not available broken down by constituency. The number of people diagnosed with AIDS each year is small, usually under 5 per year, and cannot be released at anything under a Northern Ireland level to protect patient confidentiality.
In the 1980s and early 90s, most people with HIV were eventually diagnosed with AIDS. Now, thanks to modern antiretroviral treatment, very few people in the UK develop serious HIV-related illnesses.
Other treatments available include PEP (post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV) (sometimes called PEPSE), this is a combination of HIV drugs that can stop the virus taking hold. It can be used after the event if a person has been at risk of HIV transmission. To work, PEP must be taken within 72 hours (three days), and ideally should be taken within 24 hours. PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is currently available to high risk groups and is a drug taken by HIV-negative people before and after sex that reduces the risk of getting HIV.
There is wide ranging support available to those living with HIV from the statutory, community and voluntary sector. The PHA and the HSCB through the BHSCT provide regional HIV training sessions for all HSC staff. This aims to improve knowledge and raise awareness of HIV, including the impact of prejudice, stigma and support services available for people living with or affected by HIV. Positive Life, the only dedicated HIV support charity in Northern Ireland supporting Persons Living with HIV, receives funding from my Department, and the PHA to provide support services. The Rainbow Project, which also provides help, advice, and free, confidential & non-judgemental rapid HIV testing at its Belfast and Foyle centres, also receives funding from my Department and the PHA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025711%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357446"}},{"id":"357444","reference":"AQW 25709/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-12","answerBy":"2021-11-29","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how he plans to optimise the benefits of a three-year budget for Executive departments.","answerText":"The Chancellor’s Spending Review, announced on 27th October 2021 set a three year envelope for the Executive’s Budget\n\nMy department has been engaging with other departments on the preparations necessary to ensure that a Budget can be agreed as expediently as possible.\n\nA multi-year budget will allow departments to plan more effectively, allowing similar multi-year agreements to be put in place between departments and their service delivery partners as appropriate.\n\nIt is anticipated that a twelve week consultation period will allow the public to engage with the process, providing the Executive with important feedback on its priorities and the allocation of funding, ultimately shaping the final budget prior to securing Assembly agreement next year.","answerHtml":"The Chancellor’s Spending Review, announced on 27th October 2021 set a three year envelope for the Executive’s Budget
My department has been engaging with other departments on the preparations necessary to ensure that a Budget can be agreed as expediently as possible.
A multi-year budget will allow departments to plan more effectively, allowing similar multi-year agreements to be put in place between departments and their service delivery partners as appropriate.
It is anticipated that a twelve week consultation period will allow the public to engage with the process, providing the Executive with important feedback on its priorities and the allocation of funding, ultimately shaping the final budget prior to securing Assembly agreement next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025709%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357444"}},{"id":"357243","reference":"AQW 25646/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the steps he is taking to include the mandatory provision of electric vehicle charging points in building regulations for (i) private; and (ii) public new-builds.","answerText":"Policy on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is the responsibility of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).\n\nMy Department has offered the use of Building Regulations as a potential legislative mechanism to assist DfI in implementing a requirement for the provision of EV charging point infrastructure alongside new buildings, and when major renovation of buildings with associated car parking occurs, should that department decide to progress in this way. I recently noted the importance of supporting infrastructure for zero emission vehicles and reminded the Minister for Infrastructure that my Department awaits direction on this matter.\n\nIn the meantime, my officials maintain a watching brief for further developments in building regulations in other regions.","answerHtml":"Policy on electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure is the responsibility of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI).
My Department has offered the use of Building Regulations as a potential legislative mechanism to assist DfI in implementing a requirement for the provision of EV charging point infrastructure alongside new buildings, and when major renovation of buildings with associated car parking occurs, should that department decide to progress in this way. I recently noted the importance of supporting infrastructure for zero emission vehicles and reminded the Minister for Infrastructure that my Department awaits direction on this matter.
In the meantime, my officials maintain a watching brief for further developments in building regulations in other regions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025646%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357243"}},{"id":"357242","reference":"AQW 25645/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what engagement he has had with the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise in relation to addressing the labour and skills shortage locally, and the subsequent pressures on the agri-food industry.","answerText":"My officials are regularly involved in discussions with their counterparts in DAERA and CAFRE on a range of issues. This includes representation from CAFRE at the Tertiary Education Sector Leaders Forum and the Review of Level 4 and 5 Qualifications, for instance.\n\nTo support the development and delivery of the apprenticeship system at Level 2 and Level 3, my Department has a Service Level Agreement in place with CAFRE.\n\nCAFRE has successfully delivered Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship training in food manufacturing since 2018. From September 2021, it has also begun delivering Level 6 Higher Level Apprenticeship training Food Manufacturing.\n\nThe Further and Higher Educational Institutions, including CAFRE, were asked to submit proposals the Skill-up programme. CAFRE did not submit proposals at that time. However, CAFRE will be included in all further calls for proposal submissions for the Skill Up programme.","answerHtml":"My officials are regularly involved in discussions with their counterparts in DAERA and CAFRE on a range of issues. This includes representation from CAFRE at the Tertiary Education Sector Leaders Forum and the Review of Level 4 and 5 Qualifications, for instance.
To support the development and delivery of the apprenticeship system at Level 2 and Level 3, my Department has a Service Level Agreement in place with CAFRE.
CAFRE has successfully delivered Level 5 Higher Level Apprenticeship training in food manufacturing since 2018. From September 2021, it has also begun delivering Level 6 Higher Level Apprenticeship training Food Manufacturing.
The Further and Higher Educational Institutions, including CAFRE, were asked to submit proposals the Skill-up programme. CAFRE did not submit proposals at that time. However, CAFRE will be included in all further calls for proposal submissions for the Skill Up programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025645%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357242"}},{"id":"357241","reference":"AQW 25644/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the steps he is taking, with regards rates for small business owners, in order to enable them to better compete with online retailers.","answerText":"Since I became Minister in January 2020, I have taken a number of steps to help small businesses. For example, in response to the finding in the Review of Business Rates that the rates burden on businesses was too high, I reduced the regional business rate by 18% in 2020, and held the reduced rate for the current year as well. I also renewed the Small Business Rate Relief scheme, through which over £19 million support is awarded each year to small businesses located in town centres.\n\nMany businesses, including small business owners, have also benefitted from over £515 million of rates relief which I have provided through the current rates holidays. These measures have seen many small businesses pay no rates at all for two years.\n\nI have also directed Land & Property Services to carry out a revaluation of Non-Domestic properties with a new valuation list coming into effect on 1st April 2023, based on the property market in October this year. This will ensure that businesses are paying rates based on values which take account of the market changes.\n\nThe taxation of online shopping is not a devolved matter. The British Chancellor recently announced that the Treasury will undertake a public consultation on the possible introduction of an online sales tax. I will take a close interest in the outcome of this exercise and the knock on effect here.","answerHtml":"Since I became Minister in January 2020, I have taken a number of steps to help small businesses. For example, in response to the finding in the Review of Business Rates that the rates burden on businesses was too high, I reduced the regional business rate by 18% in 2020, and held the reduced rate for the current year as well. I also renewed the Small Business Rate Relief scheme, through which over £19 million support is awarded each year to small businesses located in town centres.
Many businesses, including small business owners, have also benefitted from over £515 million of rates relief which I have provided through the current rates holidays. These measures have seen many small businesses pay no rates at all for two years.
I have also directed Land & Property Services to carry out a revaluation of Non-Domestic properties with a new valuation list coming into effect on 1st April 2023, based on the property market in October this year. This will ensure that businesses are paying rates based on values which take account of the market changes.
The taxation of online shopping is not a devolved matter. The British Chancellor recently announced that the Treasury will undertake a public consultation on the possible introduction of an online sales tax. I will take a close interest in the outcome of this exercise and the knock on effect here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025644%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357241"}},{"id":"357240","reference":"AQW 25643/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the schools and organisations in East Londonderry that will benefit from the most recent monitoring round funding allocation for Special Educational Needs.","answerText":"From a bid of £19.9m submitted at the recent October Monitoring the Education Authority received £4.6m in additional block grant funding which will be used to fund in-year inescapable demand-led Special Educational Needs (SEN) pressures.\n\nThe assessment of the pressures was made at a corporate level and not disaggregated to individual school level or on a regional basis.","answerHtml":"From a bid of £19.9m submitted at the recent October Monitoring the Education Authority received £4.6m in additional block grant funding which will be used to fund in-year inescapable demand-led Special Educational Needs (SEN) pressures.
The assessment of the pressures was made at a corporate level and not disaggregated to individual school level or on a regional basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025643%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357240"}},{"id":"357239","reference":"AQW 25642/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-11","answerBy":"2021-11-26","answered":"2021-11-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the steps she is taking to encourage and facilitate integrated education.","answerText":"I, and my officials, take very seriously the statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education and this manifests in a range of actions, funding support and policy adaptations for the integrated sector.\n\nMy Department’s aim is to respond positively to parental demand for integrated provision, for example in home to school transport policy, and in considering temporary variations and Development Proposals for the integrated sector.\n\nMy Department supports schools seeking to transform to integrated status and has provided guidance to assist schools considering this process.\n\nA range of bespoke, sector specific investment continues to be provided. This includes annual funding support and ongoing business planning support to the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to encourage and promote integrated education; support to transforming schools; and, significant capital investment via the Fresh Start Agreement.\n\nMy Department also requires its Arm’s Length Bodies to support the delivery of this statutory duty, and to report back on actions taken during the business year. The Shared Education and Sectoral Support Team in the Education Authority works with NICIE to support schools, including those who are in the process of transforming.\n\nAny recommendations from the Independent Review of Integrated Education that relate to legislative or significant policy change form part of the Terms of Reference to the Independent Review of Education which is the appropriate means to consider any such educational changes. My officials have met the panel to discuss this.","answerHtml":"I, and my officials, take very seriously the statutory duty to encourage and facilitate the development of integrated education and this manifests in a range of actions, funding support and policy adaptations for the integrated sector.
My Department’s aim is to respond positively to parental demand for integrated provision, for example in home to school transport policy, and in considering temporary variations and Development Proposals for the integrated sector.
My Department supports schools seeking to transform to integrated status and has provided guidance to assist schools considering this process.
A range of bespoke, sector specific investment continues to be provided. This includes annual funding support and ongoing business planning support to the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE) to encourage and promote integrated education; support to transforming schools; and, significant capital investment via the Fresh Start Agreement.
My Department also requires its Arm’s Length Bodies to support the delivery of this statutory duty, and to report back on actions taken during the business year. The Shared Education and Sectoral Support Team in the Education Authority works with NICIE to support schools, including those who are in the process of transforming.
Any recommendations from the Independent Review of Integrated Education that relate to legislative or significant policy change form part of the Terms of Reference to the Independent Review of Education which is the appropriate means to consider any such educational changes. My officials have met the panel to discuss this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025642%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357239"}},{"id":"357059","reference":"AQW 25557/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-10","answerBy":"2021-11-25","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the number of new approved driving instructor licences that have been issued in each of the past five years, broken down by constituency; and (ii) for her assessment of current challenges affecting the training and licencing of new approved driving instructors.","answerText":"The number of new approved driving instructor licences that have been issued in each of the past five years, broken down by constituency, is set out in the table below:\n\nConstituency\t2016-17\t2017-18\t2018-19\t2019-20\t2020-21\nEast Antrim\t1\t0\t0\t0\t0\nSouth Antrim\t3\t2\t2\t2\t1\nNorth Antrim\t3\t1\t1\t0\t0\nWest Tyrone\t1\t2\t2\t0\t0\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t1\t2\t1\t0\t1\nFoyle\t3\t2\t3\t1\t1\nNorth Down\t3\t2\t2\t3\t0\nSouth Down\t0\t2\t2\t0\t0\nStrangford\t5\t4\t1\t1\t0\nLagan Valley\t2\t0\t1\t2\t2\nBelfast South\t2\t3\t2\t0\t0\nBelfast North\t1\t2\t1\t0\t0\nBelfast West\t2\t2\t1\t2\t0\nBelfast East\t0\t1\t1\t1\t0\nEast Derry\t2\t3\t2\t2\t2\nUpper Bann\t1\t0\t1\t2\t0\nNewry & Armagh\t0\t1\t2\t2\t1\nTotal\t30\t29\t25\t18\t8\n\nThe Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) is aware of an issue experienced by candidates wishing to book the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) theory tests, which has prevented their bookings being made. The DVA has raised the issue with the theory test provider, who developed a fix to resolve the problem, which was implemented on 4 November.\n\nUnfortunately, while that release resolved the initial problem, testing conducted by officials in the DVA identified a further, unrelated issue affecting these bookings. This has been raised with the theory test provider, and the required fix is scheduled to be implemented on 3 December. In the interim, a workaround has been identified which will enable affected customers to book their ADI or AMI theory test.\n\nDVA officials have contacted affected customers to advise and assist them with completing their theory test booking, for which additional test slots have been made available.\n\nOn successful completion of their ADI or AMI theory test, candidates will be able to apply for a practical driving test.","answerHtml":"The number of new approved driving instructor licences that have been issued in each of the past five years, broken down by constituency, is set out in the table below:
| Constituency | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 | 2020-21 |
| East Antrim | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| South Antrim | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| North Antrim | 3 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| West Tyrone | 1 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 1 |
| Foyle | 3 | 2 | 3 | 1 | 1 |
| North Down | 3 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 0 |
| South Down | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Strangford | 5 | 4 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Lagan Valley | 2 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 |
| Belfast South | 2 | 3 | 2 | 0 | 0 |
| Belfast North | 1 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 0 |
| Belfast West | 2 | 2 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Belfast East | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| East Derry | 2 | 3 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Upper Bann | 1 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 |
| Newry & Armagh | 0 | 1 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| Total | 30 | 29 | 25 | 18 | 8 |
The Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) is aware of an issue experienced by candidates wishing to book the Approved Driving Instructor (ADI) and Approved Motorcycle Instructor (AMI) theory tests, which has prevented their bookings being made. The DVA has raised the issue with the theory test provider, who developed a fix to resolve the problem, which was implemented on 4 November.
Unfortunately, while that release resolved the initial problem, testing conducted by officials in the DVA identified a further, unrelated issue affecting these bookings. This has been raised with the theory test provider, and the required fix is scheduled to be implemented on 3 December. In the interim, a workaround has been identified which will enable affected customers to book their ADI or AMI theory test.
DVA officials have contacted affected customers to advise and assist them with completing their theory test booking, for which additional test slots have been made available.
On successful completion of their ADI or AMI theory test, candidates will be able to apply for a practical driving test.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025557%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357059","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357059"}},{"id":"357058","reference":"AQW 25556/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-10","answerBy":"2021-11-25","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the amount of public money Riverside Theatre in Coleraine has received, and these figures as a percentage of total running costs, broken down by organisation, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department has not provided any funding to Riverside Theatre in Coleraine.","answerHtml":"My Department has not provided any funding to Riverside Theatre in Coleraine.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025556%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357058"}},{"id":"357057","reference":"AQW 25555/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-10","answerBy":"2021-11-25","answered":"2021-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 22783/17-22, for his assessment of the impact on the economy and the number of trained drivers in the haulage sector should the changes being made in the rest of the UK regarding the HGV licensing process are not adopted in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I recognise the economic importance of trained drivers in delivering goods and vital supplies across Northern Ireland and of reported driver shortages in the haulage sector, however the issue of licensing of HGV drivers falls within the remit of the Department for Infrastructure.\n\nI am encouraged that the DVA has taken steps to maximise both the number of test slots and examiners available and has been carrying out an increased number of LGV tests since reopening in April 2021.\n\nI understand that DfI has no current plans to replicate the changes to the licensing process currently being undertaken in GB and to date, my Department has not been asked to carry out an assessment of that decision on the economy, or on the number of trained drivers in the haulage sector.\n\nFor my part, my Department continues to offer a fully funded Apprenticeship programme in Driving Goods Vehicles and I continue to proactively engage with the UK Government on its immigration policy with a view to ensuring that it reflects the needs of Northern Ireland’s economy.","answerHtml":"I recognise the economic importance of trained drivers in delivering goods and vital supplies across Northern Ireland and of reported driver shortages in the haulage sector, however the issue of licensing of HGV drivers falls within the remit of the Department for Infrastructure.
I am encouraged that the DVA has taken steps to maximise both the number of test slots and examiners available and has been carrying out an increased number of LGV tests since reopening in April 2021.
I understand that DfI has no current plans to replicate the changes to the licensing process currently being undertaken in GB and to date, my Department has not been asked to carry out an assessment of that decision on the economy, or on the number of trained drivers in the haulage sector.
For my part, my Department continues to offer a fully funded Apprenticeship programme in Driving Goods Vehicles and I continue to proactively engage with the UK Government on its immigration policy with a view to ensuring that it reflects the needs of Northern Ireland’s economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025555%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357057"}},{"id":"357056","reference":"AQW 25554/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-10","answerBy":"2021-11-25","answered":"2021-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 24278/17-22, to detail any considerations she has given to providing specific funding to schools for high visibility or reflective items in order to improve pupils’ safety as they travel to and from school.","answerText":"As set out in my response to AQW 24278/17-22, while schools’ uniform policies are a matter for the schools themselves, my Department has issued guidance on school uniform policy which includes a section relating to travelling to school. It emphasises that the safety of children is paramount and highlights the difficulties caused by dark uniforms during the winter months, particularly on rural roads. It asks schools to take this into account when designing their uniform and to consider using reflective materials and encourage the wearing of high visibility items. I have not therefore given any further consideration to providing specific funding to schools for high visibility or reflective items.","answerHtml":"As set out in my response to AQW 24278/17-22, while schools’ uniform policies are a matter for the schools themselves, my Department has issued guidance on school uniform policy which includes a section relating to travelling to school. It emphasises that the safety of children is paramount and highlights the difficulties caused by dark uniforms during the winter months, particularly on rural roads. It asks schools to take this into account when designing their uniform and to consider using reflective materials and encourage the wearing of high visibility items. I have not therefore given any further consideration to providing specific funding to schools for high visibility or reflective items.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025554%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357056"}},{"id":"356829","reference":"AQW 25470/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the role of the charity sector in identifying and tackling animal cruelty, in particular that which arises from illegal dog breeding; and (ii) to detail the support given by his Department to animal welfare charities.","answerText":"While animal welfare charities have no statutory enforcement responsibilities in Northern Ireland, they play an important role in providing information to enforcement bodies on suspected animal cruelty offences, including those which arise from illegal dog breeding. The experience and views of animal welfare charities can also be of great value in informing new policy and legislation.\n\nMy Department does not provide financial support to the animal welfare charity sector, but does provide other practical assistance, like the provision of guidance, where it can.","answerHtml":"While animal welfare charities have no statutory enforcement responsibilities in Northern Ireland, they play an important role in providing information to enforcement bodies on suspected animal cruelty offences, including those which arise from illegal dog breeding. The experience and views of animal welfare charities can also be of great value in informing new policy and legislation.
My Department does not provide financial support to the animal welfare charity sector, but does provide other practical assistance, like the provision of guidance, where it can.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025470%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356829"}},{"id":"356828","reference":"AQW 25469/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail their plans for reviewing the Executive public communications policy on COVID-19 in the run up to, and duration of winter, including reiteration of basic preventative measures the public can take to limit the spread of the virus and the use of regular Executive press conferences to update the public on the virus’s prevalence and spread, any changes to rules and advice, and other important information.","answerText":"Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic the Executive has used a wide range of communications channels to continually communicate the latest public health advice and preventative measures.\n\nThe latest phase of the Executive’s award winning public information campaign, ‘Make safer choices and let’s keep moving forward,’ was launched on 1st November across TV, radio, digital platforms and social media.\n\nIt reiterates the key messages of previous campaigns, including –\n\nGet a vaccine\n\nMeet outdoors or somewhere well ventilated\n\nKeep your distance\n\nWear a face covering\n\nTake a COVID-19 test\n\nIndependent evaluation of the summer ‘Let’s Keep Moving Forward’ campaign demonstrated that 80% of individuals questioned agreed that advertising stood out and was noticeable. 78% agreed that the campaign “would persuade me to take steps to protect myself and others from coronavirus infection.”\n\nThe campaign ran from the 14th June to 31st October and it was seen or heard over 85 million times, meaning the average adult will have seen or heard the messaging almost 56 times.\n\nTo date, 12.6million users have visited the COVID-19 portal on nidirect and there have been 27.9million unique page views.\n\nThe Executive’s priority remains raising awareness about Covid-19 and its spread, and encouraging compliance with the latest public health advice in order to save lives.\n\nWe will continue to review the most effective communications approach as part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that the public is kept fully informed.","answerHtml":"Since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic the Executive has used a wide range of communications channels to continually communicate the latest public health advice and preventative measures.
The latest phase of the Executive’s award winning public information campaign, ‘Make safer choices and let’s keep moving forward,’ was launched on 1st November across TV, radio, digital platforms and social media.
It reiterates the key messages of previous campaigns, including –
Get a vaccine
Meet outdoors or somewhere well ventilated
Keep your distance
Wear a face covering
Take a COVID-19 test
Independent evaluation of the summer ‘Let’s Keep Moving Forward’ campaign demonstrated that 80% of individuals questioned agreed that advertising stood out and was noticeable. 78% agreed that the campaign “would persuade me to take steps to protect myself and others from coronavirus infection.”
The campaign ran from the 14th June to 31st October and it was seen or heard over 85 million times, meaning the average adult will have seen or heard the messaging almost 56 times.
To date, 12.6million users have visited the COVID-19 portal on nidirect and there have been 27.9million unique page views.
The Executive’s priority remains raising awareness about Covid-19 and its spread, and encouraging compliance with the latest public health advice in order to save lives.
We will continue to review the most effective communications approach as part of our ongoing efforts to ensure that the public is kept fully informed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025469%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356828"}},{"id":"356827","reference":"AQW 25468/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for a breakdown of the number of applications received in each Health and Social Care Trust from his targeted workforce appeal for health and social care workers who have recently retired or otherwise left the industry; and (ii) how many of these applications were successful.","answerText":"In respect of the targeted workforce appeal for health and social care (HSC) workers who have recently retired or otherwise left the industry, I can confirm that:\n\nAs at 15 November 2021, 918 formal applications were logged. This is broken down by HSC Trust as follows:\n\nCategory\tBelfast HSCT\tSouth Eastern HSCT\tNorthern HSCT\tSouthern HSCT\tWestern HSCT\tTotal\nTotal\t280\t190\t118\t143\t187\t918\n\nAt this point, the selection process is ongoing. My Department is working with HSC Trusts to take this forward as a priority alongside other open workforce appeals.","answerHtml":"In respect of the targeted workforce appeal for health and social care (HSC) workers who have recently retired or otherwise left the industry, I can confirm that:
As at 15 November 2021, 918 formal applications were logged. This is broken down by HSC Trust as follows:
| Category | Belfast HSCT | South Eastern HSCT | Northern HSCT | Southern HSCT | Western HSCT | Total |
| Total | 280 | 190 | 118 | 143 | 187 | 918 |
At this point, the selection process is ongoing. My Department is working with HSC Trusts to take this forward as a priority alongside other open workforce appeals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025468%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356827"}},{"id":"356826","reference":"AQW 25467/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail his plans for resuming children’s routine orthopaedic surgery; and (ii) for his assessment of how delays and cancellations of these kinds of surgeries are affecting the delivery of all children’s orthopaedic surgery.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care (HSC) service has been allocated £90m for non-recurrent waiting list funding. This funding is being used to secure additional in-house capacity and where necessary, independent sector capacity, to help reduce the waiting times for assessment and treatment across a range of services. This funding is being targeted initially at those patients with the highest clinical priority, including paediatric surgery patients. Additional capacity has also been secured from NHS providers in England and this includes additional scoliosis capacity for both adults and children.\n\nIt is unacceptable that any child has to wait longer than is clinically appropriate for surgery and I fully understand the distress and anxiety that long waiting times cause, particularly when they are suffering pain and discomfort. While the cancellation of some surgeries has been necessary due to the rising number of Covid inpatients in our hospital, I regret the distress caused to children and their families that are waiting for treatment, and acknowledge the detrimental impact this will have on already extensive waiting times. I have established a Regional Orthopaedic Network which is working to rebuild orthopaedic surgery services across Northern Ireland, including paediatric orthopaedic surgery. The Network is also working to identify opportunities for transformational change across the service, and as part of that work, a dedicated workstream has been established to consider paediatric orthopaedics specifically. Bringing our waiting lists to an acceptable level across a range of specialties, including orthopaedics, is a long term collective effort requiring sustained and substantial investment and additional staffing.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care (HSC) service has been allocated £90m for non-recurrent waiting list funding. This funding is being used to secure additional in-house capacity and where necessary, independent sector capacity, to help reduce the waiting times for assessment and treatment across a range of services. This funding is being targeted initially at those patients with the highest clinical priority, including paediatric surgery patients. Additional capacity has also been secured from NHS providers in England and this includes additional scoliosis capacity for both adults and children.
It is unacceptable that any child has to wait longer than is clinically appropriate for surgery and I fully understand the distress and anxiety that long waiting times cause, particularly when they are suffering pain and discomfort. While the cancellation of some surgeries has been necessary due to the rising number of Covid inpatients in our hospital, I regret the distress caused to children and their families that are waiting for treatment, and acknowledge the detrimental impact this will have on already extensive waiting times. I have established a Regional Orthopaedic Network which is working to rebuild orthopaedic surgery services across Northern Ireland, including paediatric orthopaedic surgery. The Network is also working to identify opportunities for transformational change across the service, and as part of that work, a dedicated workstream has been established to consider paediatric orthopaedics specifically. Bringing our waiting lists to an acceptable level across a range of specialties, including orthopaedics, is a long term collective effort requiring sustained and substantial investment and additional staffing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025467%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356826","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356826"}},{"id":"356825","reference":"AQW 25466/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-09","answerBy":"2021-11-24","answered":"2021-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the Enhance Care Response Team pilot that has been carried out in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"To date referrals have been received for 358 residents across nine care homes and 454 professional assessments and interventions conducted.\n\nEarly outcomes demonstrate reduced resident ED attendances and hospital admissions evidenced in data collated for the nine care homes where the team have a presence. Care home staff have expressed a feeling of competence and empowerment, residents and families experience a feeling of positive reassurance, and the ECRT teams experience a rewarding model of delivering integrated and holistic care to residents in their own home.\n\nTrust funding has allowed a spread of this service to be commenced in mid-November 2021 to a small number of priority care homes in Mid-Ulster GP Federation locality.","answerHtml":"To date referrals have been received for 358 residents across nine care homes and 454 professional assessments and interventions conducted.
Early outcomes demonstrate reduced resident ED attendances and hospital admissions evidenced in data collated for the nine care homes where the team have a presence. Care home staff have expressed a feeling of competence and empowerment, residents and families experience a feeling of positive reassurance, and the ECRT teams experience a rewarding model of delivering integrated and holistic care to residents in their own home.
Trust funding has allowed a spread of this service to be commenced in mid-November 2021 to a small number of priority care homes in Mid-Ulster GP Federation locality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025466%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356825"}},{"id":"356671","reference":"AQW 25381/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-08","answerBy":"2021-11-11","answered":"2021-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the reasons for the delay in implementing annual pay increase increments for PSNI staff.","answerText":"On 12 August 2021, following my approval of the recommendations made by the Police Remuneration Review Body, my officials invited the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB) to submit pay remit business cases for proposed pay awards for all police officers for 2021-22.\n\nTo date, the pay remits for police officers for 2021-22, including requests for incremental pay progression, have not been received by my Department. You will wish to note that these pay remits also require approval from the Minister of Finance.\n\nMy Department has received pay remits in respect of two PSNI staff groups for 2021-22 and a number of other remits are awaited. Upon receipt of 2021-22 pay remits for all PSNI officer and police staff, with or without entitlement to incremental pay progression, my officials will continue to engage with PSNI colleagues and undertake the requisite approvals process in line with public sector pay policy as speedily as possible.","answerHtml":"On 12 August 2021, following my approval of the recommendations made by the Police Remuneration Review Body, my officials invited the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB) to submit pay remit business cases for proposed pay awards for all police officers for 2021-22.
To date, the pay remits for police officers for 2021-22, including requests for incremental pay progression, have not been received by my Department. You will wish to note that these pay remits also require approval from the Minister of Finance.
My Department has received pay remits in respect of two PSNI staff groups for 2021-22 and a number of other remits are awaited. Upon receipt of 2021-22 pay remits for all PSNI officer and police staff, with or without entitlement to incremental pay progression, my officials will continue to engage with PSNI colleagues and undertake the requisite approvals process in line with public sector pay policy as speedily as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025381%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356671"}},{"id":"356670","reference":"AQW 25380/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-08","answerBy":"2021-11-23","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on how people who received one of their two COVID-19 vaccination doses in another part of the UK can apply for a COVID vaccination certificate for travel.","answerText":"I can confirm that a manual process is in place to assist those NI citizens who received a vaccination in another part of the UK to have that information included in their vaccination record and facilitate the provision of a Covid Status Certificate.\n\nInformation on how to apply has been available at Applying for a digital COVIDCert|COVIDCert NI| nidirect for some time.\n\nMy officials are working to fully automate these processes.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that a manual process is in place to assist those NI citizens who received a vaccination in another part of the UK to have that information included in their vaccination record and facilitate the provision of a Covid Status Certificate.
Information on how to apply has been available at Applying for a digital COVIDCert|COVIDCert NI| nidirect for some time.
My officials are working to fully automate these processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025380%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356670"}},{"id":"356669","reference":"AQW 25379/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-08","answerBy":"2021-11-23","answered":"2021-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the energy efficiency of existing public sector buildings and what steps he is considering to retrofit energy efficiency measures.","answerText":"Improving the energy efficiency of public sector buildings is an important part of our overall approach to energy efficiency. My Department sponsors an Energy Management Unit in the Strategic Investment Board to manage the delivery of the Energy Management Strategy & Action Plan to 2030.\n\nThis sets out a pathway for central government to establish effective energy management processes that unlock value and includes an objective of lowering net energy consumption by 30% by 2030 from a 2016/17 baseline year.\n\nDelivering on this strategy and action plan is a collective responsibility across central government and the role of the unit is to facilitate Departments, Arms-Length Bodies and Non-departmental Public Bodies to deliver on potential energy-savings opportunities.\n\nThis year my Department has secured capital funding as part of the Economic Recovery Action Plan and proceeded to pilot a funding model for energy efficiency in central government. The initial focus of this funding is to develop an understanding of the readiness and capacity of central government to deliver energy related projects and to scope out any potential procurement challenges that may exist.\n\nSince its launch in May 2019 the strategy commits the Energy Management Unit co-sponsored by my department to report progress against the aforementioned baseline annually, the annuals reports are publically available at www.sibni.org.","answerHtml":"Improving the energy efficiency of public sector buildings is an important part of our overall approach to energy efficiency. My Department sponsors an Energy Management Unit in the Strategic Investment Board to manage the delivery of the Energy Management Strategy & Action Plan to 2030.
This sets out a pathway for central government to establish effective energy management processes that unlock value and includes an objective of lowering net energy consumption by 30% by 2030 from a 2016/17 baseline year.
Delivering on this strategy and action plan is a collective responsibility across central government and the role of the unit is to facilitate Departments, Arms-Length Bodies and Non-departmental Public Bodies to deliver on potential energy-savings opportunities.
This year my Department has secured capital funding as part of the Economic Recovery Action Plan and proceeded to pilot a funding model for energy efficiency in central government. The initial focus of this funding is to develop an understanding of the readiness and capacity of central government to deliver energy related projects and to scope out any potential procurement challenges that may exist.
Since its launch in May 2019 the strategy commits the Energy Management Unit co-sponsored by my department to report progress against the aforementioned baseline annually, the annuals reports are publically available at www.sibni.org.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025379%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356669"}},{"id":"356668","reference":"AQW 25378/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-08","answerBy":"2021-11-23","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update of new school construction projects in East Londonderry.","answerText":"There are currently 2 Major Capital projects and 3 Fresh Start projects in the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nThe Rossmar Special School project is in the final stages of completion. Pupils and staff moved into the new school building in April 2021. The existing school building has been demolished and external site works are ongoing. It is expected that the project will be fully complete by 21 December 2021. The overall Business Case is £14.5m\n\nOur Lady of Fatima Primary School is a new build 6 class maintained primary school on a greenfield site at Tamnaherin. This is currently at tender stage for the construction contract and tenders are currently being evaluated by the Education Authority and Department of Education technical advisors before a contract is awarded. The overall Business Case for this project is £3.4m.\n\nRoe Valley IPS, Limavady will be a 7 class base new build. Construction is anticipated to commence winter 2021 and is currently anticipated to hand over in spring 2023. The overall Business case is £6.3m.\n\nMillstrand IPS, Portrush is a 14 class base and double nursery unit new build. Construction is anticipated to commence autumn 2022 and is currently anticipated to hand over winter 2203. The overall Business case is £9.3m.\n\nThe Limavady Shared Education Campus includes work to Limavady High School and St Marys Limavady. This will include the provision of shared facilities on both school sites, with shared 6th Form, Careers, Drama and Media on the St Mary’s site and shared STEM facilities on the Limavady High School site. Construction commenced on site March 2021 and is currently anticipated to hand over in spring 2023. The overall Business case is £11m.\n\nCapital Projects are complex by their very nature and a variety of factors can contribute to delays which cumulatively impact on delivery of a project. All programmes will of course be subject to regular review, particularly in light of the ongoing Covid-19 situation.","answerHtml":"There are currently 2 Major Capital projects and 3 Fresh Start projects in the East Londonderry constituency.
The Rossmar Special School project is in the final stages of completion. Pupils and staff moved into the new school building in April 2021. The existing school building has been demolished and external site works are ongoing. It is expected that the project will be fully complete by 21 December 2021. The overall Business Case is £14.5m
Our Lady of Fatima Primary School is a new build 6 class maintained primary school on a greenfield site at Tamnaherin. This is currently at tender stage for the construction contract and tenders are currently being evaluated by the Education Authority and Department of Education technical advisors before a contract is awarded. The overall Business Case for this project is £3.4m.
Roe Valley IPS, Limavady will be a 7 class base new build. Construction is anticipated to commence winter 2021 and is currently anticipated to hand over in spring 2023. The overall Business case is £6.3m.
Millstrand IPS, Portrush is a 14 class base and double nursery unit new build. Construction is anticipated to commence autumn 2022 and is currently anticipated to hand over winter 2203. The overall Business case is £9.3m.
The Limavady Shared Education Campus includes work to Limavady High School and St Marys Limavady. This will include the provision of shared facilities on both school sites, with shared 6th Form, Careers, Drama and Media on the St Mary’s site and shared STEM facilities on the Limavady High School site. Construction commenced on site March 2021 and is currently anticipated to hand over in spring 2023. The overall Business case is £11m.
Capital Projects are complex by their very nature and a variety of factors can contribute to delays which cumulatively impact on delivery of a project. All programmes will of course be subject to regular review, particularly in light of the ongoing Covid-19 situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025378%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356668"}},{"id":"356667","reference":"AQW 25377/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-08","answerBy":"2021-11-23","answered":"2021-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on work being done to enable every child with special educational needs to be able to access their closest suitable school.","answerText":"Additional high quality provision is required to meet the year on year trend of increasing numbers of children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN).\n\nThe Education Authority (EA) works with parents and schools to ensure that the individual needs of the child with SEN will be met in the closest suitable school where possible. To enable SEN placements for children and young people with SEN for September 2022, an EA cross directorate team has been put in place.\n\nI endorsed (October) the SEN Area Planning Frameworks for Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools and Special Schools. These Frameworks form part of EA’s wider Area Planning strategy and will support the future area planning of SEN provision across mainstream and standalone settings. The Frameworks will also inform a new regional Special Education Strategic Area Plan (SESAP) which will span the next Area Planning Cycle period (2022-2027).\n\nThe EA is leading on the SESAP and is currently working with a range of stakeholders, including my Department, on its development. This will be followed by a 12-week consultation exercise on the SESAP due to commence in January 2022.","answerHtml":"Additional high quality provision is required to meet the year on year trend of increasing numbers of children and young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN).
The Education Authority (EA) works with parents and schools to ensure that the individual needs of the child with SEN will be met in the closest suitable school where possible. To enable SEN placements for children and young people with SEN for September 2022, an EA cross directorate team has been put in place.
I endorsed (October) the SEN Area Planning Frameworks for Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools and Special Schools. These Frameworks form part of EA’s wider Area Planning strategy and will support the future area planning of SEN provision across mainstream and standalone settings. The Frameworks will also inform a new regional Special Education Strategic Area Plan (SESAP) which will span the next Area Planning Cycle period (2022-2027).
The EA is leading on the SESAP and is currently working with a range of stakeholders, including my Department, on its development. This will be followed by a 12-week consultation exercise on the SESAP due to commence in January 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2025377%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356667"}},{"id":"357995","reference":"AQO 2748/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-04","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for his assessment of the extent to which gaps in EU funding since Brexit are being met by Westminster.","answerText":"The gaps are not being met.\n\nReplacement funding announced to date has been inadequate. While we would have expected £70m per year from EU Structural Funds the only replacement for EU Structural funds expected to be operational in this financial year is the Community Renewal Fund which will provide only £12.36m.\n\nWhat meagre funding has been provided has been allocated through Whitehall departments, bypassing this Assembly and taking no account of our own local and regional plans and strategies.\n\nWhile I’m sure the applicants that have secured a share of that £12.36m are all worthy projects their impact will potentially be diminished due to their being detached from the wider strategic context.\n\nI made an allocation in the last Financial Year of £42.5m to the Department for the Economy to enable them to extend their European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund programmes for an additional year which may help alleviate immediate pressures.\n\nGiven the huge pressures on our budget, this will not be possible in future years.","answerHtml":"The gaps are not being met.
Replacement funding announced to date has been inadequate. While we would have expected £70m per year from EU Structural Funds the only replacement for EU Structural funds expected to be operational in this financial year is the Community Renewal Fund which will provide only £12.36m.
What meagre funding has been provided has been allocated through Whitehall departments, bypassing this Assembly and taking no account of our own local and regional plans and strategies.
While I’m sure the applicants that have secured a share of that £12.36m are all worthy projects their impact will potentially be diminished due to their being detached from the wider strategic context.
I made an allocation in the last Financial Year of £42.5m to the Department for the Economy to enable them to extend their European Social Fund and European Regional Development Fund programmes for an additional year which may help alleviate immediate pressures.
Given the huge pressures on our budget, this will not be possible in future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202748%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=357995","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=357995"}},{"id":"355727","reference":"AQW 24928/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-04","answered":"2021-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the organisations in the independent health and social care sector that his Department has contacted in relation to the £500 recognition payment for workers in this sector.","answerText":"I can confirm that my officials have been and remain in contact with appropriate clinical and medical professional bodies, Trade Representative organisations, Trade Unions, Employers organisations, Government Departments and other Statutory organisations across all programmes of social care in the Independent Sector, to ensure the maximum number of workers possible will receive the £500 recognition payment.\n\nAs a start to this process, on the 29 October 2021 my officials wrote to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA inviting them to identify their qualifying employees. The letter set out details of eligibility criteria and how employers could claim on behalf of their staff.\n\nMy officials will continue to engage with all of the above organisations, where relevant, until the process is complete.\n\nA revised FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available via the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs","answerHtml":"I can confirm that my officials have been and remain in contact with appropriate clinical and medical professional bodies, Trade Representative organisations, Trade Unions, Employers organisations, Government Departments and other Statutory organisations across all programmes of social care in the Independent Sector, to ensure the maximum number of workers possible will receive the £500 recognition payment.
As a start to this process, on the 29 October 2021 my officials wrote to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA inviting them to identify their qualifying employees. The letter set out details of eligibility criteria and how employers could claim on behalf of their staff.
My officials will continue to engage with all of the above organisations, where relevant, until the process is complete.
A revised FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available via the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024928%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355727","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355727"}},{"id":"355726","reference":"AQW 24927/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the amount paid by Health and Social Care employers in apprenticeship levies in each of the last five years; and (ii) the amount spent on apprenticeships from this funding source.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information on the amount paid in apprenticeship levies by Health and Social Care employers.\n\nWith regard to the amount spent on apprenticeships from the apprenticeship levy, there is no direct correlation in Northern Ireland between the levy raised from employers and the funding allocation for skills development, unlike in England where funds collected through the levy are available directly to employers to fund the training costs of apprenticeships. Consequently, this funding source is not currently available to Health and Social Care employers for apprenticeships.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information on the amount paid in apprenticeship levies by Health and Social Care employers.
With regard to the amount spent on apprenticeships from the apprenticeship levy, there is no direct correlation in Northern Ireland between the levy raised from employers and the funding allocation for skills development, unlike in England where funds collected through the levy are available directly to employers to fund the training costs of apprenticeships. Consequently, this funding source is not currently available to Health and Social Care employers for apprenticeships.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024927%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355726"}},{"id":"355725","reference":"AQW 24926/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to introduce degree level or assistant practitioner level apprenticeships for health service positions, similarly to other parts of the UK.","answerText":"My Department is committed to exploring all possibilities that may provide a training pathway to careers in the Health and Social Care system, including public sector apprenticeships.\n\nThis has included engagement with the Department for the Economy, which is considering how best the development of public sector apprenticeships in Northern Ireland can be supported. Further discussions are planned.\n\nAny new training pathways identified for progression within the HSC will be developed in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to exploring all possibilities that may provide a training pathway to careers in the Health and Social Care system, including public sector apprenticeships.
This has included engagement with the Department for the Economy, which is considering how best the development of public sector apprenticeships in Northern Ireland can be supported. Further discussions are planned.
Any new training pathways identified for progression within the HSC will be developed in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024926%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355725"}},{"id":"355724","reference":"AQW 24925/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to provide staff in special education schools with a recognition payment, in recognition of the health and social care support they give to children with special educational needs.","answerText":"The HSC recognition payment is limited to the qualifying cohorts as listed on my Department’s website:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs.\n\nAny consideration of an award for staff in school settings would be a matter for the Department of Education.","answerHtml":"The HSC recognition payment is limited to the qualifying cohorts as listed on my Department’s website:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs.
Any consideration of an award for staff in school settings would be a matter for the Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024925%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355724"}},{"id":"355723","reference":"AQW 24924/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-11-01","answerBy":"2021-11-16","answered":"2021-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the steps being taken to improve and increase automation in industry as a way of addressing skills and labour shortages.","answerText":"The Vision for a 10x Economy published in May this year outlines the priority areas in which Northern Ireland is, or can be, world class. As part of the work to develop the Vision, we will be exploring how technologies, such as Robotics and Artificial Intelligence which form automation, can be harnessed to provide economic opportunities. Policies and interventions that will enable us to meet our ambition of creating a 10x Economy will be outlined in a Delivery Plan which is anticipated to be published in 2022.\n\nCity Deals investment of £1.5 billion over the next 15 years will play a key role in the delivery of a 10x Economy and support the Economic Recovery Action Plan. This investment will help enable collaboration between academia and industry as they seek new and innovative ways to enhance automation within our economy. The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the Global Innovation Institute in Belfast, along with the Centre for Industrial Technologies and the Automation and Cognitive Analytics Research Laboratory in Londonderry, as well as developing proposals within the Mid South West Region, will be pivotal to success in this area.\n\nMy Department recently consulted on a new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, Skills for a 10x Economy, which sets out the strategic importance of improving the skills profile of our population in accordance with anticipated labour market demand. The Strategy acknowledges how technology, including automation, is driving rapid change within our economy and labour market and it seeks to support this transition via the themes of ‘Creating a culture of lifelong learning’ and ‘Enhancing Digital Skills, Developing Our Digital Spine’.\n\nInvest NI’s Productive Investment Capital Grant supports businesses to invest in technologies, including automation, in response to impacts such as skills and labour shortages. The Process and Organisational Improvement Grant supports businesses to develop and implement process and organisation improvements focussed on Industry 4.0 themes including digitalisation, automation and sensor technologies.\n\nThe agency also provides Industry 4.0 assessments to help businesses to progress digital manufacturing adoption. It has provided support towards four industry networks via the Collaborative Growth Programme, engaging over 100 companies, all with a clear focus and related action plan to address existing and future skills and digital manufacturing.\n\nInvest NI proactively engages with businesses to generate awareness and adoption of digital manufacturing technologies, including automation, to uplift productivity, with a focus on job redesign/upskilling to support this transformation. This includes organising a series of STEP (Smart Technology Empowering People) webinars on adopting digital technology, run in partnership with Makers Alliance.","answerHtml":"The Vision for a 10x Economy published in May this year outlines the priority areas in which Northern Ireland is, or can be, world class. As part of the work to develop the Vision, we will be exploring how technologies, such as Robotics and Artificial Intelligence which form automation, can be harnessed to provide economic opportunities. Policies and interventions that will enable us to meet our ambition of creating a 10x Economy will be outlined in a Delivery Plan which is anticipated to be published in 2022.
City Deals investment of £1.5 billion over the next 15 years will play a key role in the delivery of a 10x Economy and support the Economic Recovery Action Plan. This investment will help enable collaboration between academia and industry as they seek new and innovative ways to enhance automation within our economy. The Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre and the Global Innovation Institute in Belfast, along with the Centre for Industrial Technologies and the Automation and Cognitive Analytics Research Laboratory in Londonderry, as well as developing proposals within the Mid South West Region, will be pivotal to success in this area.
My Department recently consulted on a new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, Skills for a 10x Economy, which sets out the strategic importance of improving the skills profile of our population in accordance with anticipated labour market demand. The Strategy acknowledges how technology, including automation, is driving rapid change within our economy and labour market and it seeks to support this transition via the themes of ‘Creating a culture of lifelong learning’ and ‘Enhancing Digital Skills, Developing Our Digital Spine’.
Invest NI’s Productive Investment Capital Grant supports businesses to invest in technologies, including automation, in response to impacts such as skills and labour shortages. The Process and Organisational Improvement Grant supports businesses to develop and implement process and organisation improvements focussed on Industry 4.0 themes including digitalisation, automation and sensor technologies.
The agency also provides Industry 4.0 assessments to help businesses to progress digital manufacturing adoption. It has provided support towards four industry networks via the Collaborative Growth Programme, engaging over 100 companies, all with a clear focus and related action plan to address existing and future skills and digital manufacturing.
Invest NI proactively engages with businesses to generate awareness and adoption of digital manufacturing technologies, including automation, to uplift productivity, with a focus on job redesign/upskilling to support this transformation. This includes organising a series of STEP (Smart Technology Empowering People) webinars on adopting digital technology, run in partnership with Makers Alliance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024924%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355723"}},{"id":"355225","reference":"AQW 24832/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-22","answerBy":"2021-11-08","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail the steps his Department is taking, and the funding being allocated, to create or encourage the development of affordable visitor attractions on the north coast; and (ii) for his assessment of how the loss of established tourism attractions such as Barry's, Waterworld and the Dunluce Centre is affecting tourism in this area.","answerText":"(i) to detail the steps his Department is taking, and the funding being allocated, to create or encourage the development of affordable visitor attractions on the north coast.\n\nIn August 2020, Tourism NI launched a new Experience Development Programme capital funding scheme, as part of the Tourism Recovery Action Plan, to develop new and enhance demand generating experiences to support tourism recovery and growth. The programme focussed on attractions and other experience providers.\n\nFinancial assistance was available to support tourism providers in creating experiences that reflect the ‘Embrace A Giant Spirit’ brand and stimulate demand for local tourism. Several projects in the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast were successful, including Broighter Gold and Alive Adventures, receiving collectively over £500k of financial assistance.\n\nIn addition, as part of a Website Development Programme that Tourism NI also launched in 2020, several projects in the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast were successful in receiving collectively over £40k of financial assistance. The approved projects included Causeway Coast Foodie Tours and Aquaholics.\n\nThe tables below sets out the tourism operators located in the East Derry Constituency/North Coast for which Tourism NI has provided funding to create or encourage the development of visitor attractions and experiences in the last 18 months.\n\nExperience Development Programme 2020-21\nDrenagh Farms Limited\tLimavady\tBT49 0HP\t£200,000\nBroighter Gold Rapeseed Oil\tLimavady\tBT49 9DY\t£200,000\nAlive Adventures\tPortrush\tBT56 8GJ\t£53,760\nFreedive Northern Ireland\tPortrush\tBT56 8LP\t£6,208\nAquaholics\tPortstewart\tBT55 7BE\t£42, 920\n\nExperience Development Programme Audio Equipment 2020-21\nCauseway Coast Foodie Tours\tColeraine\tBT52 1JE\t£1,256\nWhite River Charters Ltd.\tPortstewart\tBT55 7DJ\t£1,556\n\nWebsite Development Programme 2020-21\nCauseway Coast Foodie Tours\tColeraine\tBT52 1JE\t£7,056\nThe Chocolate Manor\tColeraine\tBT51 4RA\t£8,572\nThe Lake Kilrea\tKilrea\tBT51 5RR\t£12,628\nUlster Gliding Centre\tLimavady\tBT49 0LA\t£13,846\nCrindle Stables\tMyroe\tBT49 9ED\t£3,880\nAquaholics\tPortstewart\tBT55 7BE\t£5,150\n\nTourism NI recently launched further phases of the Experience Development Programme and the Website Development Programme. These were open call schemes which again focussed on developing experiences and websites for attractions and other experiences providers.\n\nBoth programmes have received an unprecedented volume of applications including a number from the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast. Applications to these programmes are currently being assessed, with awards to made as soon as the appraisal process has been completed. Successful projects will commence delivery in early 2022.\n\n(ii) for his assessment of how the loss of established tourism attractions such as Barry's, Waterworld and the Dunluce Centre is affecting tourism in this area.\n\nThe historic role played by Barry’s amusements, Waterworld and the Dunluce Centre in supporting the visitor economy in the area is clearly recognised. Each of these attractions would be regarded as very much weighted to the domestic audience and day-tripper market. ‘Day tripper’ value, although hard to measure, is a significant part of domestic tourism.\n\nIncreasing the number and length of overnight stays is a key element of achieving a sustainable visitor economy in the area. Whilst efforts will be made to convert day trips to overnight stays, attraction operators have a responsibility to enhance and improve the quality of their offering by creating visitor experiences that are of high quality, immersive and primarily of international appeal.\n\nTourism NI operates the Visitor Experience Quality Grading Scheme which is open to tourism businesses that offer a quality visitor experience to tourists. This is a framework that ensures quality standards. There are many graded tourist attractions and experiences that have been developed on the North Coast with the great potential of more to come.\n\nTourism NI works very closely with East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast stakeholders and tourism operators in the area who offer visitor experiences in the immediate and wider area. These activities include surfing, boat trips, tours, food and drink experiences, world class golf courses and heritage attractions and so on.\n\nTourism NI will continue to work closely with key stakeholders in the area to ensure that the North Coast continues to provide a high quality and sustainable tourism and leisure offering. This includes working with Causeway Coast & Glens Council on their £72m Growth Deal, to help develop and test strategic, tourism related projects that will attract further international visitors to the area.\n\nI also understand that Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is currently engaged in a bid process for the sale of the Dunluce Centre Leisure and Tourism Facility in Portrush for the purposes of tourism and recreation. Tourism NI officials will input to this process.\n\nMore broadly, the area has a good range of attractions and activities to welcome out of state visitors throughout the year. Initiatives which seek to support growth of overnight, out of state visitors should focus on:\n\nImproving the vibrancy of towns and villages such as Portrush;\n\nFacilitating a greater range of market led visitor experiences that are unique and reflective of the destination;\n\nRebalance the tourism accommodation offering towards accommodation that is attractive to out of state visitors;\n\nDeliver a quality visitor experience across all visitor touchpoints;\n\nContinue to develop market led visitor experience and products.","answerHtml":"(i) to detail the steps his Department is taking, and the funding being allocated, to create or encourage the development of affordable visitor attractions on the north coast.
In August 2020, Tourism NI launched a new Experience Development Programme capital funding scheme, as part of the Tourism Recovery Action Plan, to develop new and enhance demand generating experiences to support tourism recovery and growth. The programme focussed on attractions and other experience providers.
Financial assistance was available to support tourism providers in creating experiences that reflect the ‘Embrace A Giant Spirit’ brand and stimulate demand for local tourism. Several projects in the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast were successful, including Broighter Gold and Alive Adventures, receiving collectively over £500k of financial assistance.
In addition, as part of a Website Development Programme that Tourism NI also launched in 2020, several projects in the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast were successful in receiving collectively over £40k of financial assistance. The approved projects included Causeway Coast Foodie Tours and Aquaholics.
The tables below sets out the tourism operators located in the East Derry Constituency/North Coast for which Tourism NI has provided funding to create or encourage the development of visitor attractions and experiences in the last 18 months.
| Experience Development Programme 2020-21 | |||
| Drenagh Farms Limited | Limavady | BT49 0HP | £200,000 |
| Broighter Gold Rapeseed Oil | Limavady | BT49 9DY | £200,000 |
| Alive Adventures | Portrush | BT56 8GJ | £53,760 |
| Freedive Northern Ireland | Portrush | BT56 8LP | £6,208 |
| Aquaholics | Portstewart | BT55 7BE | £42, 920 |
| Experience Development Programme Audio Equipment 2020-21 | |||
| Causeway Coast Foodie Tours | Coleraine | BT52 1JE | £1,256 |
| White River Charters Ltd. | Portstewart | BT55 7DJ | £1,556 |
| Website Development Programme 2020-21 | |||
| Causeway Coast Foodie Tours | Coleraine | BT52 1JE | £7,056 |
| The Chocolate Manor | Coleraine | BT51 4RA | £8,572 |
| The Lake Kilrea | Kilrea | BT51 5RR | £12,628 |
| Ulster Gliding Centre | Limavady | BT49 0LA | £13,846 |
| Crindle Stables | Myroe | BT49 9ED | £3,880 |
| Aquaholics | Portstewart | BT55 7BE | £5,150 |
Tourism NI recently launched further phases of the Experience Development Programme and the Website Development Programme. These were open call schemes which again focussed on developing experiences and websites for attractions and other experiences providers.
Both programmes have received an unprecedented volume of applications including a number from the East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast. Applications to these programmes are currently being assessed, with awards to made as soon as the appraisal process has been completed. Successful projects will commence delivery in early 2022.
(ii) for his assessment of how the loss of established tourism attractions such as Barry's, Waterworld and the Dunluce Centre is affecting tourism in this area.
The historic role played by Barry’s amusements, Waterworld and the Dunluce Centre in supporting the visitor economy in the area is clearly recognised. Each of these attractions would be regarded as very much weighted to the domestic audience and day-tripper market. ‘Day tripper’ value, although hard to measure, is a significant part of domestic tourism.
Increasing the number and length of overnight stays is a key element of achieving a sustainable visitor economy in the area. Whilst efforts will be made to convert day trips to overnight stays, attraction operators have a responsibility to enhance and improve the quality of their offering by creating visitor experiences that are of high quality, immersive and primarily of international appeal.
Tourism NI operates the Visitor Experience Quality Grading Scheme which is open to tourism businesses that offer a quality visitor experience to tourists. This is a framework that ensures quality standards. There are many graded tourist attractions and experiences that have been developed on the North Coast with the great potential of more to come.
Tourism NI works very closely with East Londonderry Constituency/North Coast stakeholders and tourism operators in the area who offer visitor experiences in the immediate and wider area. These activities include surfing, boat trips, tours, food and drink experiences, world class golf courses and heritage attractions and so on.
Tourism NI will continue to work closely with key stakeholders in the area to ensure that the North Coast continues to provide a high quality and sustainable tourism and leisure offering. This includes working with Causeway Coast & Glens Council on their £72m Growth Deal, to help develop and test strategic, tourism related projects that will attract further international visitors to the area.
I also understand that Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council is currently engaged in a bid process for the sale of the Dunluce Centre Leisure and Tourism Facility in Portrush for the purposes of tourism and recreation. Tourism NI officials will input to this process.
More broadly, the area has a good range of attractions and activities to welcome out of state visitors throughout the year. Initiatives which seek to support growth of overnight, out of state visitors should focus on:
Improving the vibrancy of towns and villages such as Portrush;
Facilitating a greater range of market led visitor experiences that are unique and reflective of the destination;
Rebalance the tourism accommodation offering towards accommodation that is attractive to out of state visitors;
Deliver a quality visitor experience across all visitor touchpoints;
Continue to develop market led visitor experience and products.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024832%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355225"}},{"id":"355224","reference":"AQW 24831/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-22","answerBy":"2021-11-08","answered":"2021-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the process by which complaints of sexual assault against police officers, prison staff and civilian staff in the PSNI and NIPS are dealt with; and (ii) any plans she has to review this process.","answerText":"If a prisoner makes an allegation of sexual assault against an operational or civilian member of NIPS staff the complaint will initially be investigated by an appropriately senior Governor at the establishment. The investigating Governor will ensure that the names of any witnesses are recorded and that any evidence is secured and retained. The location of the alleged assault may also be sealed and treated as a crime scene.\n\nStaff involved, the prisoner and any witnesses will be informed that they may also be interviewed by police officers investigating the allegation.\n\nAny member of NIPS staff against whom the allegation has been made will not be permitted to have any further contact with the prisoner until authorised by the Governor.\n\nSubject to the information and evidence available the allegation will be referred to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) who will determine whether or not a further investigation is required.\n\nThere are no current plans to review this process.\n\nThe complaints process in respect of police officers and civilian staff working for the Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI) is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB). I am committed to respecting the Chief Constable’s independence in operational matters and the NIPB’s role in holding the PSNI to account. You may, therefore, wish to direct this element of your question to the PSNI.\n\nThe member will wish to note that the Office of the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland is independent of both Government and the police and was established to independently investigate complaints made against police officers and those staff who are in roles which have been designated by the Chief Constable.","answerHtml":"If a prisoner makes an allegation of sexual assault against an operational or civilian member of NIPS staff the complaint will initially be investigated by an appropriately senior Governor at the establishment. The investigating Governor will ensure that the names of any witnesses are recorded and that any evidence is secured and retained. The location of the alleged assault may also be sealed and treated as a crime scene.
Staff involved, the prisoner and any witnesses will be informed that they may also be interviewed by police officers investigating the allegation.
Any member of NIPS staff against whom the allegation has been made will not be permitted to have any further contact with the prisoner until authorised by the Governor.
Subject to the information and evidence available the allegation will be referred to the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) who will determine whether or not a further investigation is required.
There are no current plans to review this process.
The complaints process in respect of police officers and civilian staff working for the Police Service for Northern Ireland (PSNI) is an operational matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB). I am committed to respecting the Chief Constable’s independence in operational matters and the NIPB’s role in holding the PSNI to account. You may, therefore, wish to direct this element of your question to the PSNI.
The member will wish to note that the Office of the Police Ombudsman for Northern Ireland is independent of both Government and the police and was established to independently investigate complaints made against police officers and those staff who are in roles which have been designated by the Chief Constable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024831%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355224"}},{"id":"355223","reference":"AQW 24830/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-22","answerBy":"2021-11-08","answered":"2021-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 24280/17-22, to detail (i) the process by which frontline health and social care workers, not directly employed by a Health and Social Care Trust, will be offered a booster vaccination via a community pharmacy; and (ii) how these employees’ working hours will be accommodated regarding the scheduling of their vaccination appointments.","answerText":"My Department has written to the relevant employing organisations and bodies advising that their frontline staff are eligible for booster vaccination. Once these staff have been identified by their employer, they can attend at one of the 225 participating community pharmacies to receive their booster dose, subject to having received their second primary dose at least six months previously.\n\nThe relevant employing organisations and bodies will provide written confirmation of eligibility as a frontline health and social care worker to their staff as proof of status as a frontline health and social care worker.\n\nAccommodating staff appointments will be a matter for the employing body.","answerHtml":"My Department has written to the relevant employing organisations and bodies advising that their frontline staff are eligible for booster vaccination. Once these staff have been identified by their employer, they can attend at one of the 225 participating community pharmacies to receive their booster dose, subject to having received their second primary dose at least six months previously.
The relevant employing organisations and bodies will provide written confirmation of eligibility as a frontline health and social care worker to their staff as proof of status as a frontline health and social care worker.
Accommodating staff appointments will be a matter for the employing body.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024830%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355223"}},{"id":"355222","reference":"AQW 24829/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-22","answerBy":"2021-11-08","answered":"2021-11-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) who polices breaches of rules on dog breeding and any animal cruelty infringements that arise from them; and (ii) whether he plans to review legislation on dog breeding and associated animal welfare.","answerText":"Local councils are responsible for enforcing breaches of the rules on dog breeding and the welfare of companion animals, including dogs. My Department funds the enforcement activities carried out by councils and has responsibility for the legislation that governs dog breeding and animal welfare.\n\nI am satisfied that the legislation in place already affords substantial protections to dogs at the time of breeding. I am, however, committed to ensuring that Northern Ireland law provides all necessary protections to animals in breeding establishments. To that end, I have instructed my officials to carry out a comprehensive review of the legislation governing animal’s welfare and establishments, including breeding establishments. While this review has had to be paused given the Department’s need to focus on its response to EU exit and the coronavirus pandemic, it will recommence as soon as resource permits.\n\nMy Department continues to work with councils and other agencies through the multi-agency ‘Paws For Thought’ Group it has established to address illegal dog breeding. This Group includes representatives the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Harbour Police, local councils and the two main ferry companies.","answerHtml":"Local councils are responsible for enforcing breaches of the rules on dog breeding and the welfare of companion animals, including dogs. My Department funds the enforcement activities carried out by councils and has responsibility for the legislation that governs dog breeding and animal welfare.
I am satisfied that the legislation in place already affords substantial protections to dogs at the time of breeding. I am, however, committed to ensuring that Northern Ireland law provides all necessary protections to animals in breeding establishments. To that end, I have instructed my officials to carry out a comprehensive review of the legislation governing animal’s welfare and establishments, including breeding establishments. While this review has had to be paused given the Department’s need to focus on its response to EU exit and the coronavirus pandemic, it will recommence as soon as resource permits.
My Department continues to work with councils and other agencies through the multi-agency ‘Paws For Thought’ Group it has established to address illegal dog breeding. This Group includes representatives the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Harbour Police, local councils and the two main ferry companies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024829%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355222"}},{"id":"355221","reference":"AQW 24828/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-22","answerBy":"2021-11-08","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what consideration she has given to financially supporting Riverside Theatre, so as to ensure its continuation as a community theatre asset, in the absence of funding from Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council.","answerText":"In 2020/21 the Riverside Theatre received £85,301 through the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations administered by the Arts Council on behalf of my Department. This programme was designed to support those in the arts, culture, heritage and language sectors severely impacted by Covid-19.\n\nThe Arts Council is the funding and development agency for the arts and may be contacted via info@artscouncil-ni.org to discuss funding streams","answerHtml":"In 2020/21 the Riverside Theatre received £85,301 through the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations administered by the Arts Council on behalf of my Department. This programme was designed to support those in the arts, culture, heritage and language sectors severely impacted by Covid-19.
The Arts Council is the funding and development agency for the arts and may be contacted via info@artscouncil-ni.org to discuss funding streams
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024828%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355221"}},{"id":"355041","reference":"AQW 24751/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-21","answerBy":"2021-11-05","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of how increases in puppy farming have contributed to animal welfare case numbers since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland it is the local councils who are responsible for the welfare of companion animals, and for the regulation of dog breeding, including by investigating and prosecuting illegal breeders.\n\nData collated by my officials from the councils suggests that there was a reduction in the number of companion animal welfare complaints recorded by local councils between 2019 and 2020. This data relates to all companion animals, including dogs.\n\nMy Department has also no evidence to suggest that there has been an increase in puppy farming in Northern Ireland since the start of the pandemic; however it continues to work closely with a range of statutory bodies, including the local councils and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, to address the issue of illegal breeding.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland it is the local councils who are responsible for the welfare of companion animals, and for the regulation of dog breeding, including by investigating and prosecuting illegal breeders.
Data collated by my officials from the councils suggests that there was a reduction in the number of companion animal welfare complaints recorded by local councils between 2019 and 2020. This data relates to all companion animals, including dogs.
My Department has also no evidence to suggest that there has been an increase in puppy farming in Northern Ireland since the start of the pandemic; however it continues to work closely with a range of statutory bodies, including the local councils and the Police Service of Northern Ireland, to address the issue of illegal breeding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024751%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355041","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355041"}},{"id":"355039","reference":"AQW 24749/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-21","answerBy":"2021-11-05","answered":"2022-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any plans he has to extend entitlement to parental bereavement leave and pay to parents who suffer a miscarriage prior to 24 weeks gestation; and (ii) the reasons for this extension.","answerText":"Miscarriage is a devastating event that unfortunately many prospective parents will face. It is also an issue to which I have given careful consideration during the passage of the Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay Bill.\n\nAs you will be aware, the Assembly amended the Bill at Consideration stage to extend, subject to modification, Parental Bereavement leave and pay provision to those that experience a miscarriage. This amendment will enable regulations to be brought forward to include miscarriage as a condition of entitlement to parental bereavement leave and pay, in due course.\n\nThe Bill has now completed its passage through the Assembly having secured final stage on the 7 February. All efforts now turn to the secondary legislation required to introduce Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay, akin to provision in GB, by 6 April 2022. Once this milestone has been reached my departmental officials will start to prepare to consult on miscarriage leave and pay. It will be for the next Economy Minister to commence that consultation.\n\nI would also take this opportunity to reemphasise that many good employers already treat their employees with compassion and empathy in such distressing circumstances and I would encourage all employers to treat their employees in this way.","answerHtml":"Miscarriage is a devastating event that unfortunately many prospective parents will face. It is also an issue to which I have given careful consideration during the passage of the Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay Bill.
As you will be aware, the Assembly amended the Bill at Consideration stage to extend, subject to modification, Parental Bereavement leave and pay provision to those that experience a miscarriage. This amendment will enable regulations to be brought forward to include miscarriage as a condition of entitlement to parental bereavement leave and pay, in due course.
The Bill has now completed its passage through the Assembly having secured final stage on the 7 February. All efforts now turn to the secondary legislation required to introduce Parental Bereavement Leave and Pay, akin to provision in GB, by 6 April 2022. Once this milestone has been reached my departmental officials will start to prepare to consult on miscarriage leave and pay. It will be for the next Economy Minister to commence that consultation.
I would also take this opportunity to reemphasise that many good employers already treat their employees with compassion and empathy in such distressing circumstances and I would encourage all employers to treat their employees in this way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024749%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355039","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355039"}},{"id":"355038","reference":"AQW 24748/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-21","answerBy":"2021-11-05","answered":"2021-11-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 23467/17-22, (i) to outline the current support for people facing rising energy costs; and (ii) to detail any specific plans she has to increase this support this winter.","answerText":"This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department is engaging with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council, and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts.\n\nMy Department currently provides support on energy costs through Cold Weather Payments, Winter Fuel Payments and Discretionary Support.","answerHtml":"This is a global fuel crisis and undoubtedly will have a major impact, including on those who are already struggling financially. The Department is engaging with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council, and given the scale of this crisis will work with Executive colleagues to try and mitigate the impacts.
My Department currently provides support on energy costs through Cold Weather Payments, Winter Fuel Payments and Discretionary Support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024748%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355038","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355038"}},{"id":"355037","reference":"AQW 24747/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-21","answerBy":"2021-11-05","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the spaces available for community theatre in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Community theatre groups operate in a range of rehearsal and performance spaces that might include community halls, arts centres, outdoor spaces as well as village halls and schools. The Department does not have a definitive list of the potential spaces that might be available. In addition there are a number of theatres in or close to the constituency that might provide an outlet for community theatre group performances; these include the Playhouse Theatre, the Waterside Theatre, the Millennium Forum and the Riverside Theatre.\n\nIn the current circumstances not all facilities are currently available for use at this time. Further details can be obtained directly from the venues, the Arts Council and the local council.","answerHtml":"Community theatre groups operate in a range of rehearsal and performance spaces that might include community halls, arts centres, outdoor spaces as well as village halls and schools. The Department does not have a definitive list of the potential spaces that might be available. In addition there are a number of theatres in or close to the constituency that might provide an outlet for community theatre group performances; these include the Playhouse Theatre, the Waterside Theatre, the Millennium Forum and the Riverside Theatre.
In the current circumstances not all facilities are currently available for use at this time. Further details can be obtained directly from the venues, the Arts Council and the local council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024747%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=355037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=355037"}},{"id":"354832","reference":"AQW 24638/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-20","answerBy":"2021-11-04","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the steps she is taking in the short-term, prior to the Strategic Housing Market Analyses being completed in mid-2022, to increase the amount of social and private housing.","answerText":"I am fully committed to increasing new social housing provision across all areas in housing need.\n\nA budget of £162 million for 2021/22, an increase of some £26 million on last year, will ensure that a minimum of 1,900 social homes are started and 1,400 social homes are completed in this financial year. In addition, given the current volatility in construction costs, I have committed to increasing that budget to ensure delivery of the Social Housing Development Programme.\n\nMy Department is also currently considering a business case to allow the Housing Executive to acquire properties in areas of high housing need where there is no land available for development.\n\nOfficials within my Department are also exploring the development of new intermediate housing types (in addition to existing shared ownership provision), including a new supply of Intermediate Rent homes.","answerHtml":"I am fully committed to increasing new social housing provision across all areas in housing need.
A budget of £162 million for 2021/22, an increase of some £26 million on last year, will ensure that a minimum of 1,900 social homes are started and 1,400 social homes are completed in this financial year. In addition, given the current volatility in construction costs, I have committed to increasing that budget to ensure delivery of the Social Housing Development Programme.
My Department is also currently considering a business case to allow the Housing Executive to acquire properties in areas of high housing need where there is no land available for development.
Officials within my Department are also exploring the development of new intermediate housing types (in addition to existing shared ownership provision), including a new supply of Intermediate Rent homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024638%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354832"}},{"id":"354831","reference":"AQW 24637/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-20","answerBy":"2021-11-04","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the support available, including mental health support, for women and their partners after the loss of a baby or miscarriage.","answerText":"The vast majority of women who experience perinatal loss, be it through recurrent miscarriage, late pregnancy loss, stillbirth or neonatal death will experience normal grief and adjustment difficulties.\n\nThey are most appropriately helped by psychological input provided by primary care services, or counselling and other supports located in the community and voluntary sector. This help would also be available to the partners of women who have suffered a loss.\n\nThe Bereavement Midwives located in each Trust are a valuable alternative layer of support and most women who experience late pregnancy loss, stillbirths or neonatal deaths are currently referred to this service.\n\nBereavement midwives will also see women who have experienced recurrent miscarriage but, in order to provide a more comprehensive service, would require an increase in capacity to manage the demand. Some women will however require more specialised psychological intervention, such as that provided by the psychologists based in the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital.\n\nThe above services need clear pathways for referral and all staff providing interventions need to be adequately trained and supported.\n\nThe perinatal mental health teams will have a number of women on their caseloads with a history of perinatal loss. These women will have been referred to the teams in subsequent pregnancies because they are suffering from mental illness as a consequence of the loss or coincidentally.","answerHtml":"The vast majority of women who experience perinatal loss, be it through recurrent miscarriage, late pregnancy loss, stillbirth or neonatal death will experience normal grief and adjustment difficulties.
They are most appropriately helped by psychological input provided by primary care services, or counselling and other supports located in the community and voluntary sector. This help would also be available to the partners of women who have suffered a loss.
The Bereavement Midwives located in each Trust are a valuable alternative layer of support and most women who experience late pregnancy loss, stillbirths or neonatal deaths are currently referred to this service.
Bereavement midwives will also see women who have experienced recurrent miscarriage but, in order to provide a more comprehensive service, would require an increase in capacity to manage the demand. Some women will however require more specialised psychological intervention, such as that provided by the psychologists based in the Royal Jubilee Maternity Hospital.
The above services need clear pathways for referral and all staff providing interventions need to be adequately trained and supported.
The perinatal mental health teams will have a number of women on their caseloads with a history of perinatal loss. These women will have been referred to the teams in subsequent pregnancies because they are suffering from mental illness as a consequence of the loss or coincidentally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024637%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354831","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354831"}},{"id":"354830","reference":"AQW 24636/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-20","answerBy":"2021-11-04","answered":"2021-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline (i) the knock-on effects to the agri-food sector of the labour shortage in this industry, including potential livestock culls; and (ii) the long-term effects if the labour shortage is not addressed.","answerText":"I recognise the enormous pressure that the agri-food industry is experiencing with regards to labour problems, particularly in relation to the number of slaughter plant operatives and butchers in our abattoirs and processing plants.\n\nThe impact of the current labour shortages in pig processing plants is being felt heavily at the farm level. The increasing numbers of backlogged pigs on farm creates the potential for animal welfare issues, particularly in more intensive operations such as poultry and pigs. This is a very stressful situation for farmers and their families.\n\nA cull on welfare grounds is very much a last option and we need to do all that we can to avoid that possibility. No livestock reared to supply the food system in Northern Ireland are currently being culled and incinerated as a result of labour shortages in the agri-food sector. Officials continue to monitor the position with regard to the welfare of animals and continue to hold regular meetings with industry.\n\nAs you know Immigration Policy is a reserved matter so I have pressed the importance of this issue upon top levels of Government in Whitehall on a number of occassions, in the hope that adjustments to the Immigraton System could remedy the situation as quickly as possible.\n\nWe have seen some movement in the recent announcement on additional temporary visas for HGV drivers, poultry workers and butchers for the pork sector. These temporary visas may help to alleviate some of the immediate concerns but they are not enough; what we need is adjustments to Immigration Policy itself, which will allow the agri-food industry to plan for the longer term. I will continue to lobby Whitehall to consider the adjustments to the Immigration System which I have recommended to them.\n\nHowever, that cannot be the end of the story; there needs to be a clear plan of action from the industry to facilitate a return to market stability (and recovery in the longer term). I am commited to working with the industry to resolve the issues in the sector.\n\nThe Home Office remain firm in their ambition to address labour shortages via the domestic workforce and automation. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) provides a range of education, knowledge transfer and innovation programmes to develop the competencies and values of those entering and working in the Northern Ireland agri-food industry, to support its sustainable growth.\n\nStaff at Loughry Campus work particularly closely with businesses and stakeholders in the food processing sector and are actively working with companies to promote opportunities for employment within the sector to CAFRE students, graduates and new entrants. Through its partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, Invest NI and the NI Food and Drink Association, CAFRE is also actively investigating the innovative use of robotics and automation as a means to mitigate the challenge of labour shortage.","answerHtml":"I recognise the enormous pressure that the agri-food industry is experiencing with regards to labour problems, particularly in relation to the number of slaughter plant operatives and butchers in our abattoirs and processing plants.
The impact of the current labour shortages in pig processing plants is being felt heavily at the farm level. The increasing numbers of backlogged pigs on farm creates the potential for animal welfare issues, particularly in more intensive operations such as poultry and pigs. This is a very stressful situation for farmers and their families.
A cull on welfare grounds is very much a last option and we need to do all that we can to avoid that possibility. No livestock reared to supply the food system in Northern Ireland are currently being culled and incinerated as a result of labour shortages in the agri-food sector. Officials continue to monitor the position with regard to the welfare of animals and continue to hold regular meetings with industry.
As you know Immigration Policy is a reserved matter so I have pressed the importance of this issue upon top levels of Government in Whitehall on a number of occassions, in the hope that adjustments to the Immigraton System could remedy the situation as quickly as possible.
We have seen some movement in the recent announcement on additional temporary visas for HGV drivers, poultry workers and butchers for the pork sector. These temporary visas may help to alleviate some of the immediate concerns but they are not enough; what we need is adjustments to Immigration Policy itself, which will allow the agri-food industry to plan for the longer term. I will continue to lobby Whitehall to consider the adjustments to the Immigration System which I have recommended to them.
However, that cannot be the end of the story; there needs to be a clear plan of action from the industry to facilitate a return to market stability (and recovery in the longer term). I am commited to working with the industry to resolve the issues in the sector.
The Home Office remain firm in their ambition to address labour shortages via the domestic workforce and automation. The College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) provides a range of education, knowledge transfer and innovation programmes to develop the competencies and values of those entering and working in the Northern Ireland agri-food industry, to support its sustainable growth.
Staff at Loughry Campus work particularly closely with businesses and stakeholders in the food processing sector and are actively working with companies to promote opportunities for employment within the sector to CAFRE students, graduates and new entrants. Through its partnership with Queen’s University Belfast, Invest NI and the NI Food and Drink Association, CAFRE is also actively investigating the innovative use of robotics and automation as a means to mitigate the challenge of labour shortage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024636%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354830","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354830"}},{"id":"354829","reference":"AQW 24635/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-20","answerBy":"2021-11-04","answered":"2021-12-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how miscarriage rates are recorded.","answerText":"There is no central recording of pregnancy loss numbers or rates. Estimates are often used and applied to population figures to provide a population estimate as not all pregnancy losses will be known to healthcare providers.\n\nPregnancy loss may be recorded on a number of information systems including Trust Patient Administration Systems (PAS), GP clinical systems and NIMATS (Northern Ireland Maternity Systems). The Trust PAS will capture people who require hospital admission for management of pregnancy loss or ectopic pregnancy. Early pregnancy clinics will record attendance at a clinic but not the outcomes and not all those who attend will have a pregnancy lost confirmed. GP clinical information systems will record pregnancy loss – but only if the GP knows about it and this may not always be the case.","answerHtml":"There is no central recording of pregnancy loss numbers or rates. Estimates are often used and applied to population figures to provide a population estimate as not all pregnancy losses will be known to healthcare providers.
Pregnancy loss may be recorded on a number of information systems including Trust Patient Administration Systems (PAS), GP clinical systems and NIMATS (Northern Ireland Maternity Systems). The Trust PAS will capture people who require hospital admission for management of pregnancy loss or ectopic pregnancy. Early pregnancy clinics will record attendance at a clinic but not the outcomes and not all those who attend will have a pregnancy lost confirmed. GP clinical information systems will record pregnancy loss – but only if the GP knows about it and this may not always be the case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024635%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354829"}},{"id":"354547","reference":"AQW 24531/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-19","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the advice for people applying for the High Street scheme who are told their National Insurance number has already been used; (ii) the advice for people who receive no confirmation email after applying, nor from the help email address after submitting a query; and (iii) whether people experiencing these kinds of problems, and those who have been the victim of fraud, will be granted an extension to their application deadline.","answerText":"The Department was aware there were a number of instances where some applicants National Insurance Numbers (NINO) were used by another applicant during the application process. A process was put in place to resolve this issue to ensure eligible applicants were able to make an application. The process involved the setting up a spendlocalNINO mailbox for members or the public, MLAs and others to make direct contact with the Department. After investigation it was found that in 41% of the cases the NINO had been used by the person who contacted the Department claiming someone else had used their NINO. The remaining 59% were contacted and asked to confirm their NINO. In the cases were an applicant made a mistake when entering their NINO the application was deleted. This provided for both applicants to apply for the scheme using their correct NINOs. In cases were both applicants confirmed that the NINO belonged to them, both were asked to provide proof of their NINO and the incorrect application was deleted.\n\nThe Department has and continues to receive a significant volume of correspondence relating to the High Street Scheme and in order to address these as quickly as possible a number of bespoke mailboxes were set up and made available as contact points for MLAs, members of the public and others. This included a separate mailbox for MLAs to raise constituent queries and a mailbox for applicants who were experiencing difficulties making their application due to the NINO issue as outlined above. Each separate mailbox also contained a detailed automated response and a link to the FAQs, which helped answer a number of queries. In addition a direct freephone telephone service was made available as a contact point for general enquiries as well as an automated helpline for card activation and a customer services line for card activation issues and reporting lost or stolen cards. Any victims of fraud should contact the Department’s Fraud and Raising Concerns Branch on (028) 9025 7466 or email raising.concerns@economy-ni.gov.uk.\n\nFinally, to ensure as many people as possible could avail of the Scheme, I announced on 9 December 2021 that the spend period for the High Street Scheme was being extended for a further five days from the 14th to the 19th December 2021.","answerHtml":"The Department was aware there were a number of instances where some applicants National Insurance Numbers (NINO) were used by another applicant during the application process. A process was put in place to resolve this issue to ensure eligible applicants were able to make an application. The process involved the setting up a spendlocalNINO mailbox for members or the public, MLAs and others to make direct contact with the Department. After investigation it was found that in 41% of the cases the NINO had been used by the person who contacted the Department claiming someone else had used their NINO. The remaining 59% were contacted and asked to confirm their NINO. In the cases were an applicant made a mistake when entering their NINO the application was deleted. This provided for both applicants to apply for the scheme using their correct NINOs. In cases were both applicants confirmed that the NINO belonged to them, both were asked to provide proof of their NINO and the incorrect application was deleted.
The Department has and continues to receive a significant volume of correspondence relating to the High Street Scheme and in order to address these as quickly as possible a number of bespoke mailboxes were set up and made available as contact points for MLAs, members of the public and others. This included a separate mailbox for MLAs to raise constituent queries and a mailbox for applicants who were experiencing difficulties making their application due to the NINO issue as outlined above. Each separate mailbox also contained a detailed automated response and a link to the FAQs, which helped answer a number of queries. In addition a direct freephone telephone service was made available as a contact point for general enquiries as well as an automated helpline for card activation and a customer services line for card activation issues and reporting lost or stolen cards. Any victims of fraud should contact the Department’s Fraud and Raising Concerns Branch on (028) 9025 7466 or email raising.concerns@economy-ni.gov.uk.
Finally, to ensure as many people as possible could avail of the Scheme, I announced on 9 December 2021 that the spend period for the High Street Scheme was being extended for a further five days from the 14th to the 19th December 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024531%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354547","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354547"}},{"id":"354546","reference":"AQW 24530/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-19","answerBy":"2021-11-03","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the steps she is taking to ensure teachers’ pay is competitive with similar professional graduate roles in order that the necessary numbers of highly skilled teachers are able to be recruited and retained in the profession; and (ii) the conversations she has had with the Minister of Finance regarding funding for increasing teachers’ pay.","answerText":"The Department of Education does not employ teachers and does not make decisions about teachers’ pay. In Northern Ireland, teachers’ pay is negotiated and agreed through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee, which includes representatives from the employing authorities, sectoral bodies, DE and the five recognised teachers’ unions.\n\nTeachers’ pay in Northern Ireland generally maintains parity with other UK countries. Unlike the rest of the UK, Northern Ireland has an over-supply of teachers and there is significant competition for every job that becomes available. Teachers’ pay awards amounting to 8.25%, in addition to incremental progression for eligible teachers, over the past four years have been particularly generous in light of NI Public Sector Pay Policy. With regard to other graduate professions, the attraction of teaching, in spite of the hard work involved, may be due to the comparatively good terms and conditions including working hours and holidays as well as wider benefits such as membership of a public sector pension scheme.\n\nI have not had any conversations with the Finance Minister about funding for increasing teachers’ pay; the budgetary outcome for 2022-23 has not yet been announced. The first step in that process will be the announcement of the UK Spending Review outcome on 27 October 2021. Beyond that, I understand that the Finance Minister will engage with all Ministers prior to publishing a Draft Executive Budget for consultation as soon as possible thereafter.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education does not employ teachers and does not make decisions about teachers’ pay. In Northern Ireland, teachers’ pay is negotiated and agreed through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee, which includes representatives from the employing authorities, sectoral bodies, DE and the five recognised teachers’ unions.
Teachers’ pay in Northern Ireland generally maintains parity with other UK countries. Unlike the rest of the UK, Northern Ireland has an over-supply of teachers and there is significant competition for every job that becomes available. Teachers’ pay awards amounting to 8.25%, in addition to incremental progression for eligible teachers, over the past four years have been particularly generous in light of NI Public Sector Pay Policy. With regard to other graduate professions, the attraction of teaching, in spite of the hard work involved, may be due to the comparatively good terms and conditions including working hours and holidays as well as wider benefits such as membership of a public sector pension scheme.
I have not had any conversations with the Finance Minister about funding for increasing teachers’ pay; the budgetary outcome for 2022-23 has not yet been announced. The first step in that process will be the announcement of the UK Spending Review outcome on 27 October 2021. Beyond that, I understand that the Finance Minister will engage with all Ministers prior to publishing a Draft Executive Budget for consultation as soon as possible thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024530%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354546"}},{"id":"354545","reference":"AQW 24529/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-19","answerBy":"2021-11-03","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether independent health and social care workers, who are not on the HSC payroll, will be given the opportunity to receive their £500 recognition payment in instalments, similarly to those workers who are on the HSC payroll; and (ii) whether their payments will also be topped up to offset tax and National Insurance contributions arising from the payment.","answerText":"Employers may consider phasing payments to staff if that is requested but we do not intend it to be a condition of this scheme for phased payments to be available. Phasing is therefore at the discretion of the employer but must only be done in response to a request from an employee.\n\nThe Department is making payment of up to £735 per individual which means if you qualify for the full award, and pay tax at 20% and National Insurance at 12% you should receive approximately £500 pay in your pay.\n\nThe net payment will depend on personal circumstances and for example, an employee who pays tax at the higher rate will receive a lessor net amount.","answerHtml":"Employers may consider phasing payments to staff if that is requested but we do not intend it to be a condition of this scheme for phased payments to be available. Phasing is therefore at the discretion of the employer but must only be done in response to a request from an employee.
The Department is making payment of up to £735 per individual which means if you qualify for the full award, and pay tax at 20% and National Insurance at 12% you should receive approximately £500 pay in your pay.
The net payment will depend on personal circumstances and for example, an employee who pays tax at the higher rate will receive a lessor net amount.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024529%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354545"}},{"id":"354544","reference":"AQW 24528/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-19","answerBy":"2021-11-03","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how the £500 recognition payment claims process for independent health and social care workers differs from that for HSC payroll staff; and (ii) for his assessment of the prohibitiveness of this differing system.","answerText":"Unlike the statutory sector payments, where my officials were working with a small number of employers, the independent sector has a much larger employer base. In addition employees are a lot more transient not only between providers but also may have moved outside the sector completely.\n\nDue to the issues described at (i), developing a set of standardised eligibility criteria has proven more challenging. Likewise the development of a payment mechanism with appropriate safeguards in place, particularly in circumstances where an employee has moved between providers, or has moved out of the sector completely has also proven problematic.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with trade unions and representatives of employers to develop a workable payment process. While this has taken longer than for staff working in Health and Social Care Trusts this does not reflect any difference in value of the work done.","answerHtml":"Unlike the statutory sector payments, where my officials were working with a small number of employers, the independent sector has a much larger employer base. In addition employees are a lot more transient not only between providers but also may have moved outside the sector completely.
Due to the issues described at (i), developing a set of standardised eligibility criteria has proven more challenging. Likewise the development of a payment mechanism with appropriate safeguards in place, particularly in circumstances where an employee has moved between providers, or has moved out of the sector completely has also proven problematic.
My officials continue to engage with trade unions and representatives of employers to develop a workable payment process. While this has taken longer than for staff working in Health and Social Care Trusts this does not reflect any difference in value of the work done.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024528%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354544"}},{"id":"354543","reference":"AQW 24527/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-19","answerBy":"2021-11-03","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 23859/17-22, for her assessment of the transfer of Portstewart Town Hall back to private responsibility; and to outline any concerns raised with her on this decision.","answerText":"A number of individuals and associations have raised issues around the transfer of Portstewart Town Hall and its loss to the community. In particular, concerns have been raised with my Department around legal ownership of the building, and whether section 96(5) of the Local Government Act 1972 which governs the disposal of land at less than its market value, applies. Given my role in approving transfers in which Section 96(5) applies, my Department has engaged with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on this matter, who have indicated that this legislation does not apply to the Hall.\n\nThe Council is a statutory authority and as such is responsible for making decisions about the provision of its services and the legal liabilities which arise in connection with its assets.","answerHtml":"A number of individuals and associations have raised issues around the transfer of Portstewart Town Hall and its loss to the community. In particular, concerns have been raised with my Department around legal ownership of the building, and whether section 96(5) of the Local Government Act 1972 which governs the disposal of land at less than its market value, applies. Given my role in approving transfers in which Section 96(5) applies, my Department has engaged with the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on this matter, who have indicated that this legislation does not apply to the Hall.
The Council is a statutory authority and as such is responsible for making decisions about the provision of its services and the legal liabilities which arise in connection with its assets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024527%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354543"}},{"id":"354355","reference":"AQW 24446/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 23283/17-22, (i) for her assessment of the child poverty figures for East Londonderry as being among the highest for non-urban constituencies in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to outline any specific actions she is taking to address child poverty levels in East Londonderry and in rural areas in general.","answerText":"The figures provided in AQW 23283/17-22 are sourced from DWP’s Children in Low Income Families publication. The figures show that in 2019/20 East Derry had the 11th highest estimated number of children in relative poverty out of the 18 parliamentary constituencies.\n\nOver the last five years, the estimated number of children in relative poverty in East Derry has slightly decreased, falling from approximately 4,700 in 2015/16 to 4,100 in 2019/20.\n\nHelping children and young people who are experiencing or at risk of poverty remains a priority for my Department.\n\nThe 2016/19 Child Poverty Strategy has been extended to May 2022. It continues to provide focus to the Executive’s collective efforts to tackle the issues faced by children and families impacted by poverty.\n\nWork is continuing on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, which is being developed using a co-design approach with involvement from key stakeholders throughout the process.","answerHtml":"The figures provided in AQW 23283/17-22 are sourced from DWP’s Children in Low Income Families publication. The figures show that in 2019/20 East Derry had the 11th highest estimated number of children in relative poverty out of the 18 parliamentary constituencies.
Over the last five years, the estimated number of children in relative poverty in East Derry has slightly decreased, falling from approximately 4,700 in 2015/16 to 4,100 in 2019/20.
Helping children and young people who are experiencing or at risk of poverty remains a priority for my Department.
The 2016/19 Child Poverty Strategy has been extended to May 2022. It continues to provide focus to the Executive’s collective efforts to tackle the issues faced by children and families impacted by poverty.
Work is continuing on the development of the Executive’s Anti-Poverty Strategy, which is being developed using a co-design approach with involvement from key stakeholders throughout the process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024446%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354355"}},{"id":"354354","reference":"AQW 24445/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 23538/17-22 (i) to detail to whom enforcement action would be directed against if (a) the owner of a road in dangerous disrepair was unable to be determined; or (b) if the developer of the road was no longer the owner of the road; and (ii) to outline both the meaning of the term frontager and their responsibilities for roads in disrepair.","answerText":"The Roads (NI) Order 1993 is only applicable to adopted roads and my Department does not have the authority to carry out enforcement on other private, unadopted roads. Responsibility for repairs to roads not maintained by my Department would depend on the circumstances associated with the individual case and could lie with the owner of the road or the frontager (being the owner of land adjoining the road in question).\n\nMy Department would not be in a position to comment on the legal position in relation to individual sites and private roads.","answerHtml":"The Roads (NI) Order 1993 is only applicable to adopted roads and my Department does not have the authority to carry out enforcement on other private, unadopted roads. Responsibility for repairs to roads not maintained by my Department would depend on the circumstances associated with the individual case and could lie with the owner of the road or the frontager (being the owner of land adjoining the road in question).
My Department would not be in a position to comment on the legal position in relation to individual sites and private roads.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024445%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354354"}},{"id":"354353","reference":"AQW 24444/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 23538/17-22, (i) whether budgetary constraints are the sole reason for not bringing private roads used by the public up to standard if ownership cannot be determined; and (ii) whether, where it can be demonstrated there is significant public use of a road in disrepair and therefore a greater threat of damage to vehicles and to public safety, her Department can undertake road improvements should funding be available.","answerText":"My Department would not be in a position to adopt and repair damaged roads that are currently unadopted; responsibility for their repair remains with the frontagers or landowners and even if land ownership is unknown, my Department could not assume such a responsibility.\n\nAs well as budgetary constraints, there are also legal issues in that my Department is only authorised under the Roads (NI) Order 1993 to spend public money on roads that it maintains or on lands that it has purchased for purposes of providing necessary road improvements.","answerHtml":"My Department would not be in a position to adopt and repair damaged roads that are currently unadopted; responsibility for their repair remains with the frontagers or landowners and even if land ownership is unknown, my Department could not assume such a responsibility.
As well as budgetary constraints, there are also legal issues in that my Department is only authorised under the Roads (NI) Order 1993 to spend public money on roads that it maintains or on lands that it has purchased for purposes of providing necessary road improvements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024444%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354353"}},{"id":"354352","reference":"AQW 24443/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what plans he has to establish a reduced rate of corporation tax for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have no plans to establish a reduced rate of Corporation Tax at this time, nor do I have any power to do so as the British Government has not commenced the 2015 Westminster legislation in this regard.\n\nThat said, the Independent Fiscal Commission is examining the case for devolving further fiscal powers to the Executive. Its report will provide an incoming Executive with up-to-date expert advice that will enable it to take informed decisions on its approach to the full range of taxes, including Corporation Tax.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to establish a reduced rate of Corporation Tax at this time, nor do I have any power to do so as the British Government has not commenced the 2015 Westminster legislation in this regard.
That said, the Independent Fiscal Commission is examining the case for devolving further fiscal powers to the Executive. Its report will provide an incoming Executive with up-to-date expert advice that will enable it to take informed decisions on its approach to the full range of taxes, including Corporation Tax.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024443%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354352"}},{"id":"354351","reference":"AQW 24442/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-18","answerBy":"2021-11-02","answered":"2021-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether (i) drivers can obtain road tax without a valid MOT; and (ii) drivers can legally drive without road tax.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea is responsible for the registration and licensing (taxing) of motor vehicles used on UK roads. Vehicles are licensed in compliance with the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994. The Act does not provide for the licensing of a motor vehicle in the absence of a required statutory vehicle test certificate (MOT).\n\nIn general, vehicles must be licensed for use on UK roads. However, Schedule 2 of the Act provides for the use of an unlicensed vehicle (not having an MOT certificate) where it is being driven to and from a pre-arranged MOT test, and subsequently to and from a place of repair.\n\nIf a customer has been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate, or they require an MOT to tax their vehicle they should:\n\nbook the earliest available appointment;\n\nkeep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires\n\nIf they get to within five days of their MOT expiry date, they should contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and DVA will do their best to get an urgent appointment. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances, have been offered an earlier appointment slot.\n\nLike all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and it would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea is responsible for the registration and licensing (taxing) of motor vehicles used on UK roads. Vehicles are licensed in compliance with the Vehicle Excise and Registration Act 1994. The Act does not provide for the licensing of a motor vehicle in the absence of a required statutory vehicle test certificate (MOT).
In general, vehicles must be licensed for use on UK roads. However, Schedule 2 of the Act provides for the use of an unlicensed vehicle (not having an MOT certificate) where it is being driven to and from a pre-arranged MOT test, and subsequently to and from a place of repair.
If a customer has been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate, or they require an MOT to tax their vehicle they should:
book the earliest available appointment;
keep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires
If they get to within five days of their MOT expiry date, they should contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and DVA will do their best to get an urgent appointment. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances, have been offered an earlier appointment slot.
Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and it would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024442%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354351"}},{"id":"354197","reference":"AQW 24363/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) to detail their plans to create a high level outcome within the Programme for Government that addresses issues affecting older people; and (ii) whether they will commit to ensuring collaborative working across relevant Executive Departments in order to achieve this outcome.","answerText":"The Executive’s agreed approach to the Programme for Government begins with a draft Framework of Outcomes – statements of societal well-being which, when taken together, are intended to capture the range of things that experience and research suggest matter most to people.\n\nThe Executive consulted on the proposed strategic Outcomes Framework consisting of nine Outcomes between January and March 2021. The proposed Outcomes represent the kind of society we want to see - an inclusive society in which people of all ages are respected and supported.\n\nWe see older people as intrinsic in all of the proposed nine Outcomes, particularly the Outcomes ‘We all enjoy long, healthy active lives’ and ‘We have a caring society that supports people throughout their lives.’\n\nThe proposed Outcomes Framework aims to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, address social issues, risk factors and environmental impacts, such as social isolation and loneliness. The wellbeing approach taken by the Executive therefore, should act as a catalyst in establishing support measures to tackle issues such as loneliness and other challenges faced by older people.\n\nAgreeing the Outcomes Framework is an important first step in the development process, ahead of considering and agreeing a Programme for Government.\n\nThe Executive believes this is an approach with immense potential to transform public service delivery. The expectation is that it will help remove organisational barriers and be a strong driver for the collaborative working practices that are needed to effect real and lasting change and improvement. The key principle is the Executive working in partnership with people and communities everywhere to identify and deliver actions that will help achieve the quality of life conditions that go to the centre of people’s wellbeing.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s agreed approach to the Programme for Government begins with a draft Framework of Outcomes – statements of societal well-being which, when taken together, are intended to capture the range of things that experience and research suggest matter most to people.
The Executive consulted on the proposed strategic Outcomes Framework consisting of nine Outcomes between January and March 2021. The proposed Outcomes represent the kind of society we want to see - an inclusive society in which people of all ages are respected and supported.
We see older people as intrinsic in all of the proposed nine Outcomes, particularly the Outcomes ‘We all enjoy long, healthy active lives’ and ‘We have a caring society that supports people throughout their lives.’
The proposed Outcomes Framework aims to promote positive mental health and wellbeing, address social issues, risk factors and environmental impacts, such as social isolation and loneliness. The wellbeing approach taken by the Executive therefore, should act as a catalyst in establishing support measures to tackle issues such as loneliness and other challenges faced by older people.
Agreeing the Outcomes Framework is an important first step in the development process, ahead of considering and agreeing a Programme for Government.
The Executive believes this is an approach with immense potential to transform public service delivery. The expectation is that it will help remove organisational barriers and be a strong driver for the collaborative working practices that are needed to effect real and lasting change and improvement. The key principle is the Executive working in partnership with people and communities everywhere to identify and deliver actions that will help achieve the quality of life conditions that go to the centre of people’s wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024363%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354197"}},{"id":"354196","reference":"AQW 24362/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the proposed legislation on age discrimination for goods, services and facilities, including the expected date for its progression.","answerText":"Consideration of extending age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services was commenced under the previous Executive. A decision was not made in respect of the scope of that legislation prior to the end of the last Assembly mandate. The issue requires further work to inform the potential scope of any legislation. Officials are considering next steps to advance this matter, however, given current pressures, legislation is unlikely in this Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"Consideration of extending age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services was commenced under the previous Executive. A decision was not made in respect of the scope of that legislation prior to the end of the last Assembly mandate. The issue requires further work to inform the potential scope of any legislation. Officials are considering next steps to advance this matter, however, given current pressures, legislation is unlikely in this Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024362%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354196","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354196"}},{"id":"354195","reference":"AQW 24361/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 23676/17-22, for his assessment of how working from home, and the resulting improvement of family life and good mental and physical health, can help reduce absenteeism.","answerText":"Working from home, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, has provided many civil servants with an opportunity to achieve a more balanced work / life arrangement. This is evidenced by:\n\nThe 2020 People Survey showed 98% of respondents want to retain some elements of home / remote working, with strong support for the new hybrid style of work which blends working at home / remotely with working in the office.\n\nThe Department of Finance Innovation Lab report (May 2021), ‘Working in the Pandemic’ states it is significant that so many respondents reported strong positive experiences as a result of having the ability to work flexibly. It is important that the NICS recognises the positive impacts this has had on health and well-being, and that it carefully considers ways of retaining some or all of these positives.\n\nThe Civil Service Welfare Support Service (WSS) reports that for the vast majority of clients they dealt with over the past 18 months, the most significant improvement for them was working from home, and what this meant for their overall work-life balance and quality of life.\n\nOn the basis of this evidence a new hybrid working policy has been agreed with Central Trade Unions. It provides formal structures for managers and their teams to deliver a blended approach to working from home, remote working and office based work subject to business and individual needs. As part of the new policy the NICS is creating ‘Connect2 Regional Hubs’ for colleagues to use whilst working from home or remotely. This new policy will build on the positive impacts of civil servants working from home during the pandemic.","answerHtml":"Working from home, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, has provided many civil servants with an opportunity to achieve a more balanced work / life arrangement. This is evidenced by:
The 2020 People Survey showed 98% of respondents want to retain some elements of home / remote working, with strong support for the new hybrid style of work which blends working at home / remotely with working in the office.
The Department of Finance Innovation Lab report (May 2021), ‘Working in the Pandemic’ states it is significant that so many respondents reported strong positive experiences as a result of having the ability to work flexibly. It is important that the NICS recognises the positive impacts this has had on health and well-being, and that it carefully considers ways of retaining some or all of these positives.
The Civil Service Welfare Support Service (WSS) reports that for the vast majority of clients they dealt with over the past 18 months, the most significant improvement for them was working from home, and what this meant for their overall work-life balance and quality of life.
On the basis of this evidence a new hybrid working policy has been agreed with Central Trade Unions. It provides formal structures for managers and their teams to deliver a blended approach to working from home, remote working and office based work subject to business and individual needs. As part of the new policy the NICS is creating ‘Connect2 Regional Hubs’ for colleagues to use whilst working from home or remotely. This new policy will build on the positive impacts of civil servants working from home during the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024361%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354195"}},{"id":"354194","reference":"AQW 24360/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to increase the variety of, and access to, drugs for metastatic cancer patients.","answerText":"There are a large number of cancers which have the potential to metastasise, each of which will require a different treatment regime. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) has responsibility for commissioning all drug therapies in Northern Ireland in line with the Managed Entry process. In determining what new drugs should be adopted and made routinely available the HSCB is guided by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).\n\nMy Department has a formal link with NICE under which its technology appraisals are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here. Where found to be applicable they are endorsed by my Department for implementation within the Health and Social Care system. All new licensed cancer medicines, including extensions to existing licenses, are appraised by NICE to assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of the medicine (a technology appraisal).\n\nIn circumstances where NICE has not yet fully appraised, or does not recommend a particular drug, it is not routinely commissioned for use in Northern Ireland. However, the Individual Funding Request process provides a mechanism to consider requests from clinical consultants for treatments for individual patients that fall outside the range of services routinely commissioned.","answerHtml":"There are a large number of cancers which have the potential to metastasise, each of which will require a different treatment regime. The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) has responsibility for commissioning all drug therapies in Northern Ireland in line with the Managed Entry process. In determining what new drugs should be adopted and made routinely available the HSCB is guided by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
My Department has a formal link with NICE under which its technology appraisals are reviewed locally for their legal and policy applicability here. Where found to be applicable they are endorsed by my Department for implementation within the Health and Social Care system. All new licensed cancer medicines, including extensions to existing licenses, are appraised by NICE to assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of the medicine (a technology appraisal).
In circumstances where NICE has not yet fully appraised, or does not recommend a particular drug, it is not routinely commissioned for use in Northern Ireland. However, the Individual Funding Request process provides a mechanism to consider requests from clinical consultants for treatments for individual patients that fall outside the range of services routinely commissioned.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024360%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354194"}},{"id":"354193","reference":"AQW 24359/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-15","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on her plans to introduce a price cap for a deposit on a private house rental.","answerText":"The Private Tenancies Bill completed second stage of its’ legislative passage on 13 September 2021 and is now with the Communities Committee for scrutiny.\n\nClause 4 of the Bill limits the amount of tenancy deposit that can be required to be paid or retained in connection with a private tenancy to no more than 1 months’ rent. It provides that any landlord or other person who requires a tenancy deposit in excess of 1 months’ rent to be paid or retained in connection with a private tenancy is guilty of an offence under the Private Tenancies Order 2006.","answerHtml":"The Private Tenancies Bill completed second stage of its’ legislative passage on 13 September 2021 and is now with the Communities Committee for scrutiny.
Clause 4 of the Bill limits the amount of tenancy deposit that can be required to be paid or retained in connection with a private tenancy to no more than 1 months’ rent. It provides that any landlord or other person who requires a tenancy deposit in excess of 1 months’ rent to be paid or retained in connection with a private tenancy is guilty of an offence under the Private Tenancies Order 2006.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024359%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354193","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354193"}},{"id":"353976","reference":"AQW 24280/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether community and independent health and social care workers are eligible for the COVID-19 booster vaccine; and how they make an appointment.","answerText":"Frontline health and social care workers not directly employed by a Health and Social Care Trust will be offered vaccination via Community Pharmacy.\n\nJCVI have advised that the booster vaccination should not be administered less than six months after completion of the primary dosing course (ie six months after second dose). This six month minimum will be the primary driver of eligibility and delivery of a booster.","answerHtml":"Frontline health and social care workers not directly employed by a Health and Social Care Trust will be offered vaccination via Community Pharmacy.
JCVI have advised that the booster vaccination should not be administered less than six months after completion of the primary dosing course (ie six months after second dose). This six month minimum will be the primary driver of eligibility and delivery of a booster.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024280%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353976"}},{"id":"353975","reference":"AQW 24279/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the average waiting time, after referral, for a child to receive an autism assessment by an educational psychologist, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Education Authority does not hold this information.\n\nChildren are referred for statutory assessment based on potential special educational needs (SEN). Autism Spectrum Disorder is a medical need and not every autistic child has a SEN.\n\nSome children undergoing statutory assessment fall under the overarching SEN category of 'Social, Behavioural, Emotional & Wellbeing' or 'Speech, Language and Communication Needs', as they have Autism Spectrum Disorder or end up with a diagnosis of autism. There are also autistic children in other overarching SEN categories.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority does not hold this information.
Children are referred for statutory assessment based on potential special educational needs (SEN). Autism Spectrum Disorder is a medical need and not every autistic child has a SEN.
Some children undergoing statutory assessment fall under the overarching SEN category of 'Social, Behavioural, Emotional & Wellbeing' or 'Speech, Language and Communication Needs', as they have Autism Spectrum Disorder or end up with a diagnosis of autism. There are also autistic children in other overarching SEN categories.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024279%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353975"}},{"id":"353974","reference":"AQW 24278/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether her Department provides specific funding for high-visibility clothing to schools to better protect children going to and from school.","answerText":"My Department does not provide specific funding for high-visibility clothing to schools to better protect children going to and from school.\n\nMy Department has issued guidance to schools on school uniform policy which includes a section relating to travelling to school. It emphasises that the safety of children is paramount and highlights the difficulties caused by dark uniforms during the winter months, particularly on rural roads. It asks schools to take this into account when designing their uniform and consider using reflective materials and encourage the wearing of high visibility items.","answerHtml":"My Department does not provide specific funding for high-visibility clothing to schools to better protect children going to and from school.
My Department has issued guidance to schools on school uniform policy which includes a section relating to travelling to school. It emphasises that the safety of children is paramount and highlights the difficulties caused by dark uniforms during the winter months, particularly on rural roads. It asks schools to take this into account when designing their uniform and consider using reflective materials and encourage the wearing of high visibility items.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024278%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353974"}},{"id":"353973","reference":"AQW 24277/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2021-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline any steps she is taking to progress legislation on making street harassment a crime.","answerText":"Harassment in all its forms is unacceptable and should not to be tolerated in any way. I am committed to ensuring that the law is adequate in dealing with those who harass and that everyone, regardless of gender, can feel safer within our community.\n\nI have introduced the Protection from Stalking Bill to the Assembly which will create the specific offence of threatening or abusive behaviour. Depending on the specifics of the individual case, I believe this new offence could be used in dealing with behaviour of this type, as the conditions of the offence can be met where only one incident has occurred. Incidents of street harassment often involve a single incident.\n\nThat said, I am conscious of developments made in international jurisdictions which have legislated in this area specifically and I will continue to monitor the effectiveness of those models, and in light of the Protection from Stalking Bill provision, with interest.\n\nI remain open, however, to considering any evidence which may emerge in this area and have met and listened to the concerns and experiences of a number of organisations who represent the interests of the wider women’s sector and the LGBTQ community. This includes, but is not limited to, Stop Street Harassment NI, Reclaim the Night, the Rainbow Project, Transgender NI and Women’s Aid.\n\nWhere women are the target of street harassment, I believe there can be an underlying issue involving how women are viewed within our society. We need to adopt a wider approach to addressing societal and cultural attitudes, which cannot be achieved by my Department alone.\n\nIn this regard, the Executive has agreed to bring forward a violence against women and girls strategy on foot of my proposal, which recognising that this is a cross-cutting issue, is to be led by the Executive Office. This is intended to ensure that the cross-departmental co-operation and support required is delivered. My Department will continue to do all we can to support this work.","answerHtml":"Harassment in all its forms is unacceptable and should not to be tolerated in any way. I am committed to ensuring that the law is adequate in dealing with those who harass and that everyone, regardless of gender, can feel safer within our community.
I have introduced the Protection from Stalking Bill to the Assembly which will create the specific offence of threatening or abusive behaviour. Depending on the specifics of the individual case, I believe this new offence could be used in dealing with behaviour of this type, as the conditions of the offence can be met where only one incident has occurred. Incidents of street harassment often involve a single incident.
That said, I am conscious of developments made in international jurisdictions which have legislated in this area specifically and I will continue to monitor the effectiveness of those models, and in light of the Protection from Stalking Bill provision, with interest.
I remain open, however, to considering any evidence which may emerge in this area and have met and listened to the concerns and experiences of a number of organisations who represent the interests of the wider women’s sector and the LGBTQ community. This includes, but is not limited to, Stop Street Harassment NI, Reclaim the Night, the Rainbow Project, Transgender NI and Women’s Aid.
Where women are the target of street harassment, I believe there can be an underlying issue involving how women are viewed within our society. We need to adopt a wider approach to addressing societal and cultural attitudes, which cannot be achieved by my Department alone.
In this regard, the Executive has agreed to bring forward a violence against women and girls strategy on foot of my proposal, which recognising that this is a cross-cutting issue, is to be led by the Executive Office. This is intended to ensure that the cross-departmental co-operation and support required is delivered. My Department will continue to do all we can to support this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024277%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353973","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353973"}},{"id":"353972","reference":"AQW 24276/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-10-29","answered":"2022-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what consideration he has given to creating a triage phone number for all accident and emergency departments, similar to England; and (ii) for his assessment of how this could reduce stress on these departments and reassure some patients they can be better treated elsewhere.","answerText":"In October 2020, I published the No More Silos (NMS) Action Plan, which includes 10 key actions to ensure that urgent and emergency care services across primary and secondary care can be maintained and improved in an environment that is safe for patients and for staff. One of the 10 actions was the introduction of the Phone First telephone clinical assessment service.\n\nWhile the nature of NMS allowed Trusts to prioritise locally which key actions they would focus on, Phone First services are now operating in a number of areas. Phone First is currently available in the Northern, Southern and Western Trusts. Lagan Valley Hospital also recently introduced a Phone First service and an interim local service is available in Downe. Belfast Trust is currently operating an Urgent Care Centre as an alternative to Phone First.\n\nAs of 30 November 2021, more than 164,000 patients had utilised the Phone First and Urgent Care services across Northern Ireland. Of these patients, some 36,283, equivalent to 22%, were discharged with advice or referred back to their GP; around 80,000, equivalent to 50%, were scheduled for an appointment at an Emergency Department, Urgent Care Centre or alternative pathway; and some 48,000 patients, or 29%, were referred directly to an Emergency Department.\n\nConsideration of the introduction of a regional Phone First service will be included as part of the Urgent and Emergency Care Review, which I hope to publish for public consultation in the near future.","answerHtml":"In October 2020, I published the No More Silos (NMS) Action Plan, which includes 10 key actions to ensure that urgent and emergency care services across primary and secondary care can be maintained and improved in an environment that is safe for patients and for staff. One of the 10 actions was the introduction of the Phone First telephone clinical assessment service.
While the nature of NMS allowed Trusts to prioritise locally which key actions they would focus on, Phone First services are now operating in a number of areas. Phone First is currently available in the Northern, Southern and Western Trusts. Lagan Valley Hospital also recently introduced a Phone First service and an interim local service is available in Downe. Belfast Trust is currently operating an Urgent Care Centre as an alternative to Phone First.
As of 30 November 2021, more than 164,000 patients had utilised the Phone First and Urgent Care services across Northern Ireland. Of these patients, some 36,283, equivalent to 22%, were discharged with advice or referred back to their GP; around 80,000, equivalent to 50%, were scheduled for an appointment at an Emergency Department, Urgent Care Centre or alternative pathway; and some 48,000 patients, or 29%, were referred directly to an Emergency Department.
Consideration of the introduction of a regional Phone First service will be included as part of the Urgent and Emergency Care Review, which I hope to publish for public consultation in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024276%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353972","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353972"}},{"id":"356034","reference":"AQO 2649/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-14","answerBy":"2021-11-01","answered":"2021-11-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for her assessment of the validity of drivers' tax and insurance if their MOT certificate expires prior to securing a new test.","answerText":"DVA officials have consulted with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to make them aware of the current position regarding MOT appointments. If motorists are unable to book an MOT appointment before their MOT expiry date but still need to use their vehicle the PSNI has agreed not to penalise the driver of a vehicle whose MOT has expired so long as the vehicle is in a roadworthy and safe condition; the vehicle is properly insured; and the driver can provide proof (by showing an MOT appointment notification, either in electronic or paper form) that a test appointment has been booked for the vehicle.\n\nThe ABI view is that not having a valid MOT certificate would not necessarily invalidate insurance but customers, who find themselves in that situation due to delays in getting their vehicle tested, should check their policy documents or speak to their insurer. However, the ABI confirmed that it is a condition of insurance that owners maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition.\n\nDVA customers must therefore book a vehicle test appointment as soon as possible, even if it is after their current MOT expiry date. All other offences relating to vehicle roadworthiness and insurance will be dealt with by the PSNI and DVA enforcement officers in the usual manner. If a customer has been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate, or they require an MOT to tax their vehicle they should:\n\nbook the earliest available appointment;\n\nkeep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires.\n\nIf they get to within five days of their MOT expiry date, contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will do their best to get an urgent appointment. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances, have been offered an earlier appointment slot.\n\nLike all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.","answerHtml":"DVA officials have consulted with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to make them aware of the current position regarding MOT appointments. If motorists are unable to book an MOT appointment before their MOT expiry date but still need to use their vehicle the PSNI has agreed not to penalise the driver of a vehicle whose MOT has expired so long as the vehicle is in a roadworthy and safe condition; the vehicle is properly insured; and the driver can provide proof (by showing an MOT appointment notification, either in electronic or paper form) that a test appointment has been booked for the vehicle.
The ABI view is that not having a valid MOT certificate would not necessarily invalidate insurance but customers, who find themselves in that situation due to delays in getting their vehicle tested, should check their policy documents or speak to their insurer. However, the ABI confirmed that it is a condition of insurance that owners maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition.
DVA customers must therefore book a vehicle test appointment as soon as possible, even if it is after their current MOT expiry date. All other offences relating to vehicle roadworthiness and insurance will be dealt with by the PSNI and DVA enforcement officers in the usual manner. If a customer has been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate, or they require an MOT to tax their vehicle they should:
book the earliest available appointment;
keep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires.
If they get to within five days of their MOT expiry date, contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will do their best to get an urgent appointment. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances, have been offered an earlier appointment slot.
Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202649%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=356034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=356034"}},{"id":"353798","reference":"AQW 24190/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current restrictions on birthing partners attending ante-natal appointments and scans with a pregnant woman; and (ii) when these restrictions will be relaxed.","answerText":"The Department’s regional visiting guidance to hospital settings including Maternity, a Pathway to Enhanced Visiting, represents the expected visiting arrangements which should be facilitated providing that decisions are guided by local Infection Prevention and Control risk assessments.\n\nCurrent Restrictions:\n\nIn respect of Maternity Outpatient Services, a chosen birth partner will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to any pregnancy related appointments and ultrasound scans with particular effort made to keep the environment COVID secure.\n\nThe guidance states that in certain, prescribed circumstances, local decisions may be made to reinstate some restrictions for limited periods to protect patients, families and staff. For this reason, in the event of evidence of rapidly increasing community transmission or outbreaks in a particular geographical area or facility, some additional local visiting restrictions may apply. For details of maternity restrictions applicable in each Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) area at any given time, please refer to the relevant HSCT website.\n\nIt is important to note that any visiting restrictions additional to those outlined in a Pathway to Enhanced Visiting currently being implemented are kept under regular review by the appropriate HSCT. This will allow for a reversion to the permissions outlined in the regional visiting guidance document at the earliest opportunity.\n\nFuture Plans:\n\nThe Pathway is subject to scheduled review every four weeks, with the next review due to be completed in the week commencing 8 November 2021.","answerHtml":"The Department’s regional visiting guidance to hospital settings including Maternity, a Pathway to Enhanced Visiting, represents the expected visiting arrangements which should be facilitated providing that decisions are guided by local Infection Prevention and Control risk assessments.
Current Restrictions:
In respect of Maternity Outpatient Services, a chosen birth partner will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to any pregnancy related appointments and ultrasound scans with particular effort made to keep the environment COVID secure.
The guidance states that in certain, prescribed circumstances, local decisions may be made to reinstate some restrictions for limited periods to protect patients, families and staff. For this reason, in the event of evidence of rapidly increasing community transmission or outbreaks in a particular geographical area or facility, some additional local visiting restrictions may apply. For details of maternity restrictions applicable in each Health and Social Care Trust (HSCT) area at any given time, please refer to the relevant HSCT website.
It is important to note that any visiting restrictions additional to those outlined in a Pathway to Enhanced Visiting currently being implemented are kept under regular review by the appropriate HSCT. This will allow for a reversion to the permissions outlined in the regional visiting guidance document at the earliest opportunity.
Future Plans:
The Pathway is subject to scheduled review every four weeks, with the next review due to be completed in the week commencing 8 November 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024190%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353798","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353798"}},{"id":"353797","reference":"AQW 24189/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-11-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of funding given by her Department to older people’s initiatives and groups in each of the past five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 24189/17-22, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Due to the volume of detail required to answer AQW 24189/17-22, the information has been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024189%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353797","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353797"}},{"id":"353795","reference":"AQW 24187/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-11-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what advice he is giving to businesses, care homes, hospitals and other organisations about the use of lateral flow tests (LFTs) to reduce the transmission of COVID; and (ii) what steps he is taking to facilitate organisations to obtain and use LFTs.","answerText":"Even if you have already been vaccinated, regular Rapid Testing is important in limiting the spread of the virus, helping to protect those who are vulnerable, as well as our health and social care system. I would encourage anyone who doesn’t already test on a regular basis, to avail of free Rapid Tests and make testing part of their routine. This is particularly important if you are coming into contact with people who may be more clinically vulnerable, including patients in hospitals or care homes.\n\nAny organisation is currently able to register to deliver rapid testing to their workforce, contractors, volunteers and service users. All hospital and care home staff are also able to access Rapid Tests, while children and young people in education can access Rapid Tests through their school, college or university.\n\nAnyone who is unable to access Rapid Tests through one of these schemes is able to order Rapid Tests for delivery to their home address, or collect packs from the network of community collect sites across Northern Ireland, including over 500 community pharmacies.\n\nFurther information about the availability of rapid testing in Northern Ireland can be found at www.health-ni.gov.uk/rapid-tests.","answerHtml":"Even if you have already been vaccinated, regular Rapid Testing is important in limiting the spread of the virus, helping to protect those who are vulnerable, as well as our health and social care system. I would encourage anyone who doesn’t already test on a regular basis, to avail of free Rapid Tests and make testing part of their routine. This is particularly important if you are coming into contact with people who may be more clinically vulnerable, including patients in hospitals or care homes.
Any organisation is currently able to register to deliver rapid testing to their workforce, contractors, volunteers and service users. All hospital and care home staff are also able to access Rapid Tests, while children and young people in education can access Rapid Tests through their school, college or university.
Anyone who is unable to access Rapid Tests through one of these schemes is able to order Rapid Tests for delivery to their home address, or collect packs from the network of community collect sites across Northern Ireland, including over 500 community pharmacies.
Further information about the availability of rapid testing in Northern Ireland can be found at www.health-ni.gov.uk/rapid-tests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024187%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353795","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353795"}},{"id":"353794","reference":"AQW 24186/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-13","answerBy":"2021-10-28","answered":"2021-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to prepare for winter pressures on the Health Service.","answerText":"The health and social care (HSC) system is most likely facing into the most difficult winter ever experienced.\n\nOn 22 October 2021, I laid a written statement in the Assembly setting out my approach to winter planning, including a variety of regional measures. I also published integrated Trust winter and surge delivery plans. These delivery plans set out in much detail the winter planning at individual Trust level.","answerHtml":"The health and social care (HSC) system is most likely facing into the most difficult winter ever experienced.
On 22 October 2021, I laid a written statement in the Assembly setting out my approach to winter planning, including a variety of regional measures. I also published integrated Trust winter and surge delivery plans. These delivery plans set out in much detail the winter planning at individual Trust level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024186%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353794","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353794"}},{"id":"353574","reference":"AQW 24106/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-12","answerBy":"2021-10-27","answered":"2021-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health pursuant to AQW 23379/17-22, when he intends to bring a policy on the domestic use of Covid vaccination information to the Executive.","answerText":"The member will be aware that domestic certificates were introduced on 29 November 2021 and were made enforceable from 13 December 2021.","answerHtml":"The member will be aware that domestic certificates were introduced on 29 November 2021 and were made enforceable from 13 December 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024106%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353574"}},{"id":"353396","reference":"AQW 24025/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-11","answerBy":"2021-10-14","answered":"2022-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the health and social care staff COVID-19 special recognition payment; and whether volunteers and staff of private and/or community ambulances are eligible for the payment.","answerText":"All HSC statutory sector employees received their payments in July salaries.\n\nAs at 19 January, 563 claims have been received from care home and domiciliary care providers which are progressing through the various stages of the pre-payment checks. Of these, 494 have been paid and 14 are awaiting further information from the claimants. 55 claims are from organisations not on the authorised list and are undergoing additional checks on their eligibility.\n\nAd hoc shifts for cover, be they within nursing, medicine or patient transport are not eligible under the scheme. Qualifying individuals must have completed at least one month's continuous direct employment, or, in the case of an agency worker, have been on a placement of more than 12 weeks’ duration. While the contribution of workers such as those in private and community ambulances is much appreciated and valued, it is not possible to extend the scope of the scheme to recognise all such contributions.","answerHtml":"All HSC statutory sector employees received their payments in July salaries.
As at 19 January, 563 claims have been received from care home and domiciliary care providers which are progressing through the various stages of the pre-payment checks. Of these, 494 have been paid and 14 are awaiting further information from the claimants. 55 claims are from organisations not on the authorised list and are undergoing additional checks on their eligibility.
Ad hoc shifts for cover, be they within nursing, medicine or patient transport are not eligible under the scheme. Qualifying individuals must have completed at least one month's continuous direct employment, or, in the case of an agency worker, have been on a placement of more than 12 weeks’ duration. While the contribution of workers such as those in private and community ambulances is much appreciated and valued, it is not possible to extend the scope of the scheme to recognise all such contributions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024025%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353396","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353396"}},{"id":"353395","reference":"AQW 24024/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-11","answerBy":"2021-10-26","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the youth schemes in East Londonderry currently supported by her Department.","answerText":"Through Neighbourhood Renewal, the Department funds two Education projects with a youth focus. The Coleraine Education Community Project (CECP) is a schools based project that has been successfully operating across Coleraine for over ten years, which links nine schools that work within or have significant numbers of pupils from the two Neighbourhood Renewal Areas (NRAs) of Coleraine East (Ballysally and Millburn) and Coleraine West (The Heights and Killowen). This initiative was allocated £43,813.32 in the current financial year.\n\nThe second project is the Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project (BINP) which provides an effective nurturing service for families and individuals of all ages, with a cradle to grave approach of supportive developmental work. This project was allocated £147,706.72 in the current financial year.\n\nIn addition to these Neighbourhood Renewal projects, Sport NI, an Arm’s Length Body of the Department, is currently supporting two youth schemes under its ‘Supporting Sport to Build Back Better – Project Re-Boot: Team Up Programme’ – which is funded by the National Lottery. These are:\n\nLimavady Recreation Club which received £23,659 for its ‘Connect, Play, Stay’ scheme; and\n\nSt. Canice’s GAC which received £16,191 for its ‘Get Up, Get Out, Get it Right’ scheme.","answerHtml":"Through Neighbourhood Renewal, the Department funds two Education projects with a youth focus. The Coleraine Education Community Project (CECP) is a schools based project that has been successfully operating across Coleraine for over ten years, which links nine schools that work within or have significant numbers of pupils from the two Neighbourhood Renewal Areas (NRAs) of Coleraine East (Ballysally and Millburn) and Coleraine West (The Heights and Killowen). This initiative was allocated £43,813.32 in the current financial year.
The second project is the Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project (BINP) which provides an effective nurturing service for families and individuals of all ages, with a cradle to grave approach of supportive developmental work. This project was allocated £147,706.72 in the current financial year.
In addition to these Neighbourhood Renewal projects, Sport NI, an Arm’s Length Body of the Department, is currently supporting two youth schemes under its ‘Supporting Sport to Build Back Better – Project Re-Boot: Team Up Programme’ – which is funded by the National Lottery. These are:
Limavady Recreation Club which received £23,659 for its ‘Connect, Play, Stay’ scheme; and
St. Canice’s GAC which received £16,191 for its ‘Get Up, Get Out, Get it Right’ scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024024%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353395","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353395"}},{"id":"353394","reference":"AQW 24023/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-11","answerBy":"2021-10-26","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how rising building costs will impact on construction projects related to her Department.","answerText":"With regard to the Social Housing Development Programme, the Total Cost Indicators (TCI) system is used to determine the cost to deliver social housing. A range of information is used to establish a benchmark of total average costs for acquiring/constructing social homes across the 11 Council areas. From 1st October 2021, my Department has implemented revised TCI rates which take account of the increased costs affecting contractors on any newly tendered schemes.\n\nFor schemes already on site or tendered, Housing Associations can claim for any increased costs for the lifetime of Construction and Procurement Delivery’s (CPD) Procurement Advisory Note, i.e. between 1st April 2021 and 30th September 2021. The Housing Executive will implement a rigorous process in line with CPD Guidance to ensure that claims are evidence-based and enable payment/remuneration. The Housing Executive is fully confident that it can administer these claims and payments.\n\nRising building costs may result in increased cost to construction projects across all Departments. The impact of construction cost inflation is incorporated into the Engaged Communities Group capital monitoring process which manages pressures and easements across the group in line with other Department for Communities priorities. My Department will continue to monitor and take into account when planning projects.","answerHtml":"With regard to the Social Housing Development Programme, the Total Cost Indicators (TCI) system is used to determine the cost to deliver social housing. A range of information is used to establish a benchmark of total average costs for acquiring/constructing social homes across the 11 Council areas. From 1st October 2021, my Department has implemented revised TCI rates which take account of the increased costs affecting contractors on any newly tendered schemes.
For schemes already on site or tendered, Housing Associations can claim for any increased costs for the lifetime of Construction and Procurement Delivery’s (CPD) Procurement Advisory Note, i.e. between 1st April 2021 and 30th September 2021. The Housing Executive will implement a rigorous process in line with CPD Guidance to ensure that claims are evidence-based and enable payment/remuneration. The Housing Executive is fully confident that it can administer these claims and payments.
Rising building costs may result in increased cost to construction projects across all Departments. The impact of construction cost inflation is incorporated into the Engaged Communities Group capital monitoring process which manages pressures and easements across the group in line with other Department for Communities priorities. My Department will continue to monitor and take into account when planning projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024023%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353394","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353394"}},{"id":"353393","reference":"AQW 24022/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-11","answerBy":"2021-10-26","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any breaches of security relating to the High Street scheme; and (ii) any other evidence of fraud related to the scheme.","answerText":"There have been no reported breaches of security relating to the High Street Voucher Scheme.\n\nI can confirm there are currently two instances of potential fraud involving applications to the High Street Scheme. One is under investigation by the PSNI and the Department has provided supporting evidence. The other is a whistleblowing allegation which is currently the subject of preliminary investigation by the Department.","answerHtml":"There have been no reported breaches of security relating to the High Street Voucher Scheme.
I can confirm there are currently two instances of potential fraud involving applications to the High Street Scheme. One is under investigation by the PSNI and the Department has provided supporting evidence. The other is a whistleblowing allegation which is currently the subject of preliminary investigation by the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024022%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353393"}},{"id":"353392","reference":"AQW 24021/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-11","answerBy":"2021-10-26","answered":"2021-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline (i) the legal implications for motorists of driving without a valid MOT while they wait for their test; and (ii) any conversations she has had with the Chief Constable regarding this issue.","answerText":"From 26 July 2021, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) reinstated its normal vehicle test times, which has increased capacity across the network of test centres. In August 2021, the DVA conducted 60,680 full vehicle tests, which is 98% of the five year average for that month.\n\nThe DVA is currently experiencing significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to get their vehicles tested before their current MOT expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location.\n\nDVA officials have consulted with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to make them aware of the current position regarding MOT appointments. If motorists are unable to book an MOT appointment before their MOT expiry date but still need to use their vehicle the PSNI has agreed not to penalise the driver of a vehicle whose MOT has expired so long as the vehicle is in a roadworthy and safe condition; the vehicle is properly insured; and the driver can provide proof (by showing an MOT appointment notification, either in electronic or paper form) that a test appointment has been booked for the vehicle.\n\nThe ABI view is that not having a valid MOT certificate would not necessarily invalidate insurance but customers, who find themselves in that situation due to delays in getting their vehicle tested, should check their policy documents or speak to their insurer. However, the ABI confirmed that it is a condition of insurance that owners maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition.\n\nDVA customers must therefore book a vehicle test appointment as soon as possible, even if it is after their current MOT expiry date. All other offences relating to vehicle roadworthiness and insurance will be dealt with by the PSNI and DVA enforcement officers in the usual manner.\n\nIf a customer has been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate, or they require an MOT to tax their vehicle they should:\n\nbook the earliest available appointment;\n\nkeep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires\n\nIf they get to within five days of their MOT expiry date, contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and DVA will do their best to get an urgent appointment. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances, have been offered an earlier appointment slot.\n\nLike all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.","answerHtml":"From 26 July 2021, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) reinstated its normal vehicle test times, which has increased capacity across the network of test centres. In August 2021, the DVA conducted 60,680 full vehicle tests, which is 98% of the five year average for that month.
The DVA is currently experiencing significant demand for vehicle testing services and in some cases customers may not be able to get their vehicles tested before their current MOT expires. In such cases, customers must book the earliest available test appointment for their vehicle, which may mean travelling to another test centre instead of their preferred location.
DVA officials have consulted with the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) and the Association of British Insurers (ABI) to make them aware of the current position regarding MOT appointments. If motorists are unable to book an MOT appointment before their MOT expiry date but still need to use their vehicle the PSNI has agreed not to penalise the driver of a vehicle whose MOT has expired so long as the vehicle is in a roadworthy and safe condition; the vehicle is properly insured; and the driver can provide proof (by showing an MOT appointment notification, either in electronic or paper form) that a test appointment has been booked for the vehicle.
The ABI view is that not having a valid MOT certificate would not necessarily invalidate insurance but customers, who find themselves in that situation due to delays in getting their vehicle tested, should check their policy documents or speak to their insurer. However, the ABI confirmed that it is a condition of insurance that owners maintain their vehicles in a roadworthy condition.
DVA customers must therefore book a vehicle test appointment as soon as possible, even if it is after their current MOT expiry date. All other offences relating to vehicle roadworthiness and insurance will be dealt with by the PSNI and DVA enforcement officers in the usual manner.
If a customer has been advised by their insurer that they will not be covered if their vehicle does not have a valid MOT certificate, or they require an MOT to tax their vehicle they should:
book the earliest available appointment;
keep checking the booking system for an appointment before their MOT expires
If they get to within five days of their MOT expiry date, contact dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and DVA will do their best to get an urgent appointment. To date, all customers who have contacted the DVA in these circumstances, have been offered an earlier appointment slot.
Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2024021%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353392"}},{"id":"353225","reference":"AQW 23949/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the cost to his Department, for each prescription, minus the cost of the drug/treatment, prescribed by (a) GPs; and (b) pharmacies; and (ii) to outline what steps he is taking to reduce this cost.","answerText":"The costs associated with the dispensing of prescriptions in primary care in Northern Ireland can be estimated using the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff which sets out the reimbursement costs for most items that can be prescribed, the dispensing fees and any additional allowances that may be payable to community pharmacy contractors. For those items not listed in the NI Drug Tariff, reimbursement prices are detailed via the dm+d database\n\nAccording to the latest statistical report published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency in 2020/21 the average cost per item of drugs reimbursed was £10.60 with 41.4m items being dispensed in this period - https://hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Annual%2020-21%20General%20Pharmaceutical%20Services%20Report.pdf\n\nThe actual cost of a prescription however depends on the dosage, quantity and type of the drug prescribed. A standard dispensing fee of £1.00 is then applied to each item on a prescription. The drug cost plus the dispensing fee and any additional allowances or fees that may be payable for the dispensing of an item, will equal the total cost of the prescription. These costs are in addition to other administrative and professional costs associated with prescriptions including any time that may be required by a medical professional to see the patient and issue a prescription.\n\nWith regard to reducing prescription costs I can advise that the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) continues to work with prescribers on the need to optimise medicine use in primary care by encouraging them to prescribe cost effectively in line with evidence. This includes prescribing generically where possible and following the Northern Ireland Drug Formulary for first line treatment options. Prescribers are also expected to review all patients prescribed medicines on a regular basis and to use the Limited Evidence or Stop List to check if the drugs are appropriate, safe and if they are providing the HSC with value for money - Prescribing Stop List | NI Formulary (hscni.net). Indeed, health care prescribers are advised not to prescribe medicines that can be purchased over-the-counter by patients when they are being used to treat minor conditions or self-limiting illnesses, or where there is no evidence base for their use.","answerHtml":"The costs associated with the dispensing of prescriptions in primary care in Northern Ireland can be estimated using the Northern Ireland Drug Tariff which sets out the reimbursement costs for most items that can be prescribed, the dispensing fees and any additional allowances that may be payable to community pharmacy contractors. For those items not listed in the NI Drug Tariff, reimbursement prices are detailed via the dm+d database
According to the latest statistical report published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency in 2020/21 the average cost per item of drugs reimbursed was £10.60 with 41.4m items being dispensed in this period - https://hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Annual%2020-21%20General%20Pharmaceutical%20Services%20Report.pdf
The actual cost of a prescription however depends on the dosage, quantity and type of the drug prescribed. A standard dispensing fee of £1.00 is then applied to each item on a prescription. The drug cost plus the dispensing fee and any additional allowances or fees that may be payable for the dispensing of an item, will equal the total cost of the prescription. These costs are in addition to other administrative and professional costs associated with prescriptions including any time that may be required by a medical professional to see the patient and issue a prescription.
With regard to reducing prescription costs I can advise that the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) continues to work with prescribers on the need to optimise medicine use in primary care by encouraging them to prescribe cost effectively in line with evidence. This includes prescribing generically where possible and following the Northern Ireland Drug Formulary for first line treatment options. Prescribers are also expected to review all patients prescribed medicines on a regular basis and to use the Limited Evidence or Stop List to check if the drugs are appropriate, safe and if they are providing the HSC with value for money - Prescribing Stop List | NI Formulary (hscni.net). Indeed, health care prescribers are advised not to prescribe medicines that can be purchased over-the-counter by patients when they are being used to treat minor conditions or self-limiting illnesses, or where there is no evidence base for their use.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023949%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353225"}},{"id":"353224","reference":"AQW 23948/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of services for at-risk or vulnerable prisoners.","answerText":"The care of vulnerable people is of paramount importance and is taken very seriously across the Justice system. This is particularly important in the context of the work of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, as we seek to care for and support a significant number of people with complex and challenging health needs who find themselves in custody.\n\nWe do this in collaboration with our healthcare partners in the SET who are responsible for the provision of healthcare services to prisoners in Northern Ireland.\n\nI welcome the recent publication of the RQIA Review of Vulnerable People report which provides an independent assessment of the support provided to people in custody in Northern Ireland. The report recognises the work that has been progressed since the report has been commissioned including the introduction of SPAR Evolution, the creation of wellbeing hubs and therapeutic spaces across the prison estate and the commitment to being trauma-informed. However, more importantly, it clearly articulates the challenges NIPS staff and our healthcare partners face.\n\nThe report makes a number of recommendations; my Department is committed to taking forward the recommendations specifically addressed to Justice and will work in partnership with Healthcare colleagues to facilitate delivery of others. I believe these recommendations, if implemented, will result in considerable improvements to people in our care.","answerHtml":"The care of vulnerable people is of paramount importance and is taken very seriously across the Justice system. This is particularly important in the context of the work of the Northern Ireland Prison Service, as we seek to care for and support a significant number of people with complex and challenging health needs who find themselves in custody.
We do this in collaboration with our healthcare partners in the SET who are responsible for the provision of healthcare services to prisoners in Northern Ireland.
I welcome the recent publication of the RQIA Review of Vulnerable People report which provides an independent assessment of the support provided to people in custody in Northern Ireland. The report recognises the work that has been progressed since the report has been commissioned including the introduction of SPAR Evolution, the creation of wellbeing hubs and therapeutic spaces across the prison estate and the commitment to being trauma-informed. However, more importantly, it clearly articulates the challenges NIPS staff and our healthcare partners face.
The report makes a number of recommendations; my Department is committed to taking forward the recommendations specifically addressed to Justice and will work in partnership with Healthcare colleagues to facilitate delivery of others. I believe these recommendations, if implemented, will result in considerable improvements to people in our care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023948%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353224"}},{"id":"353223","reference":"AQW 23947/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to outline any conversations she has had with the Chief Constable in relation to improving women’s safety and increasing women’s confidence in the police.","answerText":"I meet regularly with the Chief Constable and his senior team to discuss a range of issues.\n\nI fully support efforts to ensure improvement in women’s safety and increasing women’s confidence in the police and I welcome the Chief Constable’s recent announcement that he has commissioned a robust internal review within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in order to provide reassurances to women and young girls. My Department stands ready to support the PSNI in this review.\n\nThe PSNI is also currently rolling out training as a result of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 which should highlight key behaviours that are of concern.\n\nYou will also be aware that the Executive has agreed that they will bring forward a violence against women and girls strategy which was on foot of my proposition to the Executive. The Executive agreed that The Executive Office would take the lead on bringing it forward as it was not simply a matter for the Justice Department, but for all Departments, to tackle violence against women and girls, whether direct or indirect.","answerHtml":"I meet regularly with the Chief Constable and his senior team to discuss a range of issues.
I fully support efforts to ensure improvement in women’s safety and increasing women’s confidence in the police and I welcome the Chief Constable’s recent announcement that he has commissioned a robust internal review within the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) in order to provide reassurances to women and young girls. My Department stands ready to support the PSNI in this review.
The PSNI is also currently rolling out training as a result of the Domestic Abuse and Civil Proceedings Act (Northern Ireland) 2021 which should highlight key behaviours that are of concern.
You will also be aware that the Executive has agreed that they will bring forward a violence against women and girls strategy which was on foot of my proposition to the Executive. The Executive agreed that The Executive Office would take the lead on bringing it forward as it was not simply a matter for the Justice Department, but for all Departments, to tackle violence against women and girls, whether direct or indirect.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023947%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353223"}},{"id":"353222","reference":"AQW 23946/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-08","answerBy":"2021-10-25","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any plans she has to review the Housing Executive points system.","answerText":"My Department is working with the Housing Executive to enable the implementation of 18 of the 20 proposals contained in the Consultation Outcome Report which set out the findings of the 2017 consultation “A Fundamentsal Review of Social Housing Allocations”. Further work will be carried out and alternatives considered for two proposals relating to intimidation points and interim accommodation points, prior to their implementation.\n\nThe Housing Executive has now established a project team, which has commenced the planning stage for implementation and delivery of these proposals that will make the Housing Selection Scheme fairer and better at responding to objective need.\n\nThe intention is for implementation of a number of proposals to be underway by March 2022.","answerHtml":"My Department is working with the Housing Executive to enable the implementation of 18 of the 20 proposals contained in the Consultation Outcome Report which set out the findings of the 2017 consultation “A Fundamentsal Review of Social Housing Allocations”. Further work will be carried out and alternatives considered for two proposals relating to intimidation points and interim accommodation points, prior to their implementation.
The Housing Executive has now established a project team, which has commenced the planning stage for implementation and delivery of these proposals that will make the Housing Selection Scheme fairer and better at responding to objective need.
The intention is for implementation of a number of proposals to be underway by March 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023946%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353222"}},{"id":"353030","reference":"AQW 23862/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2022-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail any discussions he has had, or plans to have, with the haulage industry regarding improving working conditions for drivers; and (ii) for his assessment of how improving conditions could encourage more people to enter the industry.","answerText":"I have met with the Road Haulage Association on a number of occasions and discussed the working conditions of the sector.\n\nI am committed to improving work quality across all sectors of the Northern Ireland Economy. My Department has commissioned the development of a set of Work Quality Indicators, as a commonly agreed set of metrics which can be used to describe and monitor job quality.\n\nOne of the commitments included within the draft Skills Strategy is to introduce a better jobs pledge. Employers with 50+ employees will be actively encouraged to introduce working practices that align with these Work Quality Indicators. This will recognise and promote companies that are fully engaged in the development of their staff, the economy and the wellbeing of our society.","answerHtml":"I have met with the Road Haulage Association on a number of occasions and discussed the working conditions of the sector.
I am committed to improving work quality across all sectors of the Northern Ireland Economy. My Department has commissioned the development of a set of Work Quality Indicators, as a commonly agreed set of metrics which can be used to describe and monitor job quality.
One of the commitments included within the draft Skills Strategy is to introduce a better jobs pledge. Employers with 50+ employees will be actively encouraged to introduce working practices that align with these Work Quality Indicators. This will recognise and promote companies that are fully engaged in the development of their staff, the economy and the wellbeing of our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023862%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353030"}},{"id":"353029","reference":"AQW 23861/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any steps he is taking to incentivise and facilitate more people to train in industries currently experiencing labour shortages, such as agri-food, logistics and hospitality.","answerText":"My Department is committed to providing skills support to employers through the Skills Focus programme, which is delivered by the six Further Education colleges. Skills Focus is well established in helping upskill small and medium size businesses, including those from the agri-food, logistics and hospitality sectors.\n\nMy Department has also funded a series of leadership and management courses for the Hospitality and Tourism sector. Working with the Hospitality and Tourism network (HATS) and Tourism NI, Belfast Met hosted four, DfE funded Master Classes.\n\nSupport for the sector continues with Skills Focus offering bespoke training, aimed at Hospitality and Tourism managers, for a level 3 accredited qualification in leadership and management.\n\nTourism NI is also working directly with the sector to align activity and address key strands of a skills action plan. They are actively working to develop an advertising campaign aimed at addressing serious issues such as the attraction and retention of a skilled workforce to the Hospitality and Tourism sector.\n\nThe COVID Recovery Kick Start Programme will also provide an avenue of support to existing tourism businesses to identify recovery action plans across four key business areas including HR and Talent development.\n\nIn September 2021, my Department introduced the NI Traineeship programme, which is a new full-time level 2 vocational education programme. The programme is being introduced on a phased basis with Traineeships across 22 occupational areas available from September 2021. When at full capacity Traineeships will be available across more than 30 occupational areas, including a range of agri-food and hospitality pathways.\n\nMy Department’s Careers Service maintains a strategic overview of key sectors, drawing upon information from Sector Partnerships, Curriculum Hubs and other key stakeholders. This facilitates the production of dedicated, localised Careers Information bulletins for key sectors.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to providing skills support to employers through the Skills Focus programme, which is delivered by the six Further Education colleges. Skills Focus is well established in helping upskill small and medium size businesses, including those from the agri-food, logistics and hospitality sectors.
My Department has also funded a series of leadership and management courses for the Hospitality and Tourism sector. Working with the Hospitality and Tourism network (HATS) and Tourism NI, Belfast Met hosted four, DfE funded Master Classes.
Support for the sector continues with Skills Focus offering bespoke training, aimed at Hospitality and Tourism managers, for a level 3 accredited qualification in leadership and management.
Tourism NI is also working directly with the sector to align activity and address key strands of a skills action plan. They are actively working to develop an advertising campaign aimed at addressing serious issues such as the attraction and retention of a skilled workforce to the Hospitality and Tourism sector.
The COVID Recovery Kick Start Programme will also provide an avenue of support to existing tourism businesses to identify recovery action plans across four key business areas including HR and Talent development.
In September 2021, my Department introduced the NI Traineeship programme, which is a new full-time level 2 vocational education programme. The programme is being introduced on a phased basis with Traineeships across 22 occupational areas available from September 2021. When at full capacity Traineeships will be available across more than 30 occupational areas, including a range of agri-food and hospitality pathways.
My Department’s Careers Service maintains a strategic overview of key sectors, drawing upon information from Sector Partnerships, Curriculum Hubs and other key stakeholders. This facilitates the production of dedicated, localised Careers Information bulletins for key sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353029"}},{"id":"353028","reference":"AQW 23860/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 21921/17-22, to detail the number of health service staff, that had recently left or retired from the NHS, and responded to his appeal of September 23 and returned to health service work.","answerText":"The workforce appeal, which was launched by my Department on 23 September, is currently in progress and applications are continuing to be received. The response to the appeal has been outstanding, however, at this stage it is not possible to confirm precise figures with regards the background of individuals who have applied. It is only when the selection process is complete and individuals have been appointed that we would be able to provide the figures requested.\n\nI thank all those who have applied to help out with the Elective Services appeal; all of the appointments made through this campaign will play a vital role in assisting the health service to cope with the additional demands being placed upon it.","answerHtml":"The workforce appeal, which was launched by my Department on 23 September, is currently in progress and applications are continuing to be received. The response to the appeal has been outstanding, however, at this stage it is not possible to confirm precise figures with regards the background of individuals who have applied. It is only when the selection process is complete and individuals have been appointed that we would be able to provide the figures requested.
I thank all those who have applied to help out with the Elective Services appeal; all of the appointments made through this campaign will play a vital role in assisting the health service to cope with the additional demands being placed upon it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023860%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353028","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353028"}},{"id":"353027","reference":"AQW 23859/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) any conversations she has had with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council or the Portstewart Conservation Society regarding the transfer of Portstewart Town Hall; and (ii) any involvement she has had in finding or creating a public space in Portstewart that could be used by the community as an alternative.","answerText":"My officials sought assurance that the building and its disposal do not come under section 96(5) of the 1972 Act, which governs the disposal of land at less than its market value. The Council have indicated that Section 96(5) does not apply.\n\nCommunity planning partnership would provide a forum for discussion around finding or creating a public space in Portstewart that could be used by the community.","answerHtml":"My officials sought assurance that the building and its disposal do not come under section 96(5) of the 1972 Act, which governs the disposal of land at less than its market value. The Council have indicated that Section 96(5) does not apply.
Community planning partnership would provide a forum for discussion around finding or creating a public space in Portstewart that could be used by the community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023859%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353027","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353027"}},{"id":"353026","reference":"AQW 23858/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-22","answered":"2021-10-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 23180/17-22, (i) why no properties in East Londonderry were able to access a Fibrus internet connection up to September 2021; and (ii) to detail the current availability in that constituency.","answerText":"In order for citizens to access the Project Stratum network, the necessary infrastructure will need to be in place, and details released to Fibrus ISP (the consumer engagement arm of the business). Fibrus Networks’ engineering model seeks to deploy infrastructure quickly and efficiently from both a technical and cost perspective, enabling as many premises as possible to see improvement through this intervention. Some areas will see improvement before others; that is always going to be the case with such deployments.\n\nAs outlined in AQW 23180/17-22, South Down Constituency currently has the highest number of premises passed, while East Londonderry Constituency has no premises passed. This is due to deployment of infrastructure commencing in South Down Constituency in Spring 2021, while deployment in East Londonderry Constituency commenced in Autumn 2021. My Department anticipates premises within the East Londonderry Constituency being passed in the coming weeks, and citizens being in a position to place an order.\n\nThe Hyperfast NI website at www.hyperfastni.com will confirm when work has been completed and a service can be ordered, for citizens who wish to do so. Currently, Fibrus ISP is the only provider offering services on the Project Stratum network. However, we expect other providers to offer services as the project continues.\n\n(ii)There are 2,883 premises within the East Londonderry Constituency included in the Project Stratum intervention area. As mentioned above, current deployment plans show that the first premises were scheduled for improvement in Autumn 2021, with deployment continuing until Spring 2023.\n\nThe table below provides a full breakdown of the deployment schedule within the East Londonderry Constituency.\n\nArea\tDeployment Due\tNumber of Premises\nBallymoney\tAutumn 2021\t292\nPortstewart\tAutumn 2021\t597\nCastlerock\tWinter 2021\t343\nGarvagh\tAutumn 2022\t1,343\nLimavady\tSpring 2023\t224\nClaudy\tSpring 2023\t84\nTotal\t2,883\n\nIn addition to the 2,883 premises included in the Project Stratum intervention area, there are a further 185 eligible premises within the East Londonderry Constituency that are currently out of scope due to the exhaustion of funding. My Department has been endeavouring to secure funding to address such premises. The recent announcement by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, confirming extra funding for Project Stratum, is the result of an extended process of engagement. The additional funding will contribute towards addressing premises that are currently beyond the scope of Project Stratum, as well as premises that were omitted from the target intervention area due to issues with the Land & Property Services Pointer dataset, but have since been identified as being eligible.\n\nMy Department remains on track to complete the governance and approvals processes required in advance of making an announcement and sharing the breakdown and location of premises to be brought into scope as part of this exercise, along with Fibrus Networks’ confirmed deployment rollout schedule.\n\nMy Department remains hopeful that the process will be concluded in the next several weeks and the granular detail can then be provided. It remains the overarching aspiration of my Department to maximise broadband coverage to benefit as many eligible premises as possible under Project Stratum from this public intervention under the State aid rules that govern the project.","answerHtml":"In order for citizens to access the Project Stratum network, the necessary infrastructure will need to be in place, and details released to Fibrus ISP (the consumer engagement arm of the business). Fibrus Networks’ engineering model seeks to deploy infrastructure quickly and efficiently from both a technical and cost perspective, enabling as many premises as possible to see improvement through this intervention. Some areas will see improvement before others; that is always going to be the case with such deployments.
As outlined in AQW 23180/17-22, South Down Constituency currently has the highest number of premises passed, while East Londonderry Constituency has no premises passed. This is due to deployment of infrastructure commencing in South Down Constituency in Spring 2021, while deployment in East Londonderry Constituency commenced in Autumn 2021. My Department anticipates premises within the East Londonderry Constituency being passed in the coming weeks, and citizens being in a position to place an order.
The Hyperfast NI website at www.hyperfastni.com will confirm when work has been completed and a service can be ordered, for citizens who wish to do so. Currently, Fibrus ISP is the only provider offering services on the Project Stratum network. However, we expect other providers to offer services as the project continues.
(ii)There are 2,883 premises within the East Londonderry Constituency included in the Project Stratum intervention area. As mentioned above, current deployment plans show that the first premises were scheduled for improvement in Autumn 2021, with deployment continuing until Spring 2023.
The table below provides a full breakdown of the deployment schedule within the East Londonderry Constituency.
| Area | Deployment Due | Number of Premises |
| Ballymoney | Autumn 2021 | 292 |
| Portstewart | Autumn 2021 | 597 |
| Castlerock | Winter 2021 | 343 |
| Garvagh | Autumn 2022 | 1,343 |
| Limavady | Spring 2023 | 224 |
| Claudy | Spring 2023 | 84 |
| Total | 2,883 |
In addition to the 2,883 premises included in the Project Stratum intervention area, there are a further 185 eligible premises within the East Londonderry Constituency that are currently out of scope due to the exhaustion of funding. My Department has been endeavouring to secure funding to address such premises. The recent announcement by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, confirming extra funding for Project Stratum, is the result of an extended process of engagement. The additional funding will contribute towards addressing premises that are currently beyond the scope of Project Stratum, as well as premises that were omitted from the target intervention area due to issues with the Land & Property Services Pointer dataset, but have since been identified as being eligible.
My Department remains on track to complete the governance and approvals processes required in advance of making an announcement and sharing the breakdown and location of premises to be brought into scope as part of this exercise, along with Fibrus Networks’ confirmed deployment rollout schedule.
My Department remains hopeful that the process will be concluded in the next several weeks and the granular detail can then be provided. It remains the overarching aspiration of my Department to maximise broadband coverage to benefit as many eligible premises as possible under Project Stratum from this public intervention under the State aid rules that govern the project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023858%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=353026","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=353026"}},{"id":"354420","reference":"AQO 2611/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-07","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of GP numbers, including numbers leaving and entering the profession.","answerText":"Recent figures from the BSO show that at March 2021, there were 1,410 GPs working in Northern Ireland. This is an increase of 3% on the previous year and an increase of 19% since 2014. However, the number of Whole Time Equivalent GPs has fallen by 8% in the same time period. This is against a backdrop of rising demand for GP services, compounded by the added pressures of COVID-19.\n\nThe number of places on the GP Training Programme has already expanded to 111 places, an increase of 71% from 2015 levels.\n\nIt is important to ensure the delivery of quality training that will encourage medical students to choose a career in General Practice. I am delighted therefore that the first cohort of medical students has recently entered the Ulster University Medical School.\n\nI am particularly pleased that a feature of the UU’s curriculum is the emphasis on learning in primary care settings.\n\nHowever, let me be clear that the increase in demand for GP-led services cannot be met solely by increasing the number of GPs. This is only one element of a wider programme of work to help improve the provision of care for patients.\n\nBroadening skills mix with the wider roll-out of Multi-disciplinary Teams and the development of new roles, such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners and General Practice Pharmacists are also crucial.\n\nMembers will be aware of the additional announced last week to support general practice. £3.8m will support additional patient care through the winter and up to £1.7m to improve telephony infrastructure and improve accessibility, such as the use of online systems for ordering repeat prescriptions, helping to free up telephone lines and staff time.\n\nIn the meantime I want to assure Members that GP practices are open and will continue to provide both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.\n\nIt is essential however that we make use of all the tools at our disposal to ensure that we can make best use of the available resources. Primary care is not sustainable unless it continues to transform in order to do this.","answerHtml":"Recent figures from the BSO show that at March 2021, there were 1,410 GPs working in Northern Ireland. This is an increase of 3% on the previous year and an increase of 19% since 2014. However, the number of Whole Time Equivalent GPs has fallen by 8% in the same time period. This is against a backdrop of rising demand for GP services, compounded by the added pressures of COVID-19.
The number of places on the GP Training Programme has already expanded to 111 places, an increase of 71% from 2015 levels.
It is important to ensure the delivery of quality training that will encourage medical students to choose a career in General Practice. I am delighted therefore that the first cohort of medical students has recently entered the Ulster University Medical School.
I am particularly pleased that a feature of the UU’s curriculum is the emphasis on learning in primary care settings.
However, let me be clear that the increase in demand for GP-led services cannot be met solely by increasing the number of GPs. This is only one element of a wider programme of work to help improve the provision of care for patients.
Broadening skills mix with the wider roll-out of Multi-disciplinary Teams and the development of new roles, such as Advanced Nurse Practitioners and General Practice Pharmacists are also crucial.
Members will be aware of the additional announced last week to support general practice. £3.8m will support additional patient care through the winter and up to £1.7m to improve telephony infrastructure and improve accessibility, such as the use of online systems for ordering repeat prescriptions, helping to free up telephone lines and staff time.
In the meantime I want to assure Members that GP practices are open and will continue to provide both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.
It is essential however that we make use of all the tools at our disposal to ensure that we can make best use of the available resources. Primary care is not sustainable unless it continues to transform in order to do this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202611%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=354420","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=354420"}},{"id":"352921","reference":"AQW 23775/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-06","answerBy":"2021-10-21","answered":"2021-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the thresholds for acceptable levels of CO2 in classrooms; (ii) the advice given to schools once these levels are exceeded; and (iii) the support available to schools to improve ventilation in classrooms long term.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised me that:\n\n(i) A consistent CO2 value < 800 parts per million (ppm) is likely to indicate that a space is well ventilated but does not mean that an environment is free of COVID-19 risks. Sustained high (> 1500ppm) CO2 values are likely to indicate overcrowding or poor ventilation where mitigating actions are likely to be required.\n\n(ii) Schools have been advised:\n\nto aim for < 800ppm where possible by ensuring rooms are ventilated;\n\nfor 801 – 1000ppm to provide additional ventilation by opening windows;\n\nfor 1001 – 1500ppm to provide significant ventilation by opening windows wider or opening more windows;\n\nfor 1500 – 2000ppm maximum ventilation is required; and\n\nfor sustained CO2 readings > 1500pm, schools should contact their Locality Maintenance Helpdesk for assistance.\n\n(iii) As air ventilation is the most effective mitigating measure for COVID-19, the EA will continue to provide support to ensure that schools have the requisite level of air ventilation. The EA will also be undertaking a planned programme of window surveys to identify any minor works that may need to be carried out, including any steps to improve ventilation where appropriate. Surveys have commenced and any immediate repairs identified to address ventilation concerns will be completed within this financial year 21-22.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised me that:
(i) A consistent CO2 value < 800 parts per million (ppm) is likely to indicate that a space is well ventilated but does not mean that an environment is free of COVID-19 risks. Sustained high (> 1500ppm) CO2 values are likely to indicate overcrowding or poor ventilation where mitigating actions are likely to be required.
(ii) Schools have been advised:
to aim for < 800ppm where possible by ensuring rooms are ventilated;
for 801 – 1000ppm to provide additional ventilation by opening windows;
for 1001 – 1500ppm to provide significant ventilation by opening windows wider or opening more windows;
for 1500 – 2000ppm maximum ventilation is required; and
for sustained CO2 readings > 1500pm, schools should contact their Locality Maintenance Helpdesk for assistance.
(iii) As air ventilation is the most effective mitigating measure for COVID-19, the EA will continue to provide support to ensure that schools have the requisite level of air ventilation. The EA will also be undertaking a planned programme of window surveys to identify any minor works that may need to be carried out, including any steps to improve ventilation where appropriate. Surveys have commenced and any immediate repairs identified to address ventilation concerns will be completed within this financial year 21-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023775%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352921","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352921"}},{"id":"352920","reference":"AQW 23774/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-06","answerBy":"2021-10-21","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the support given to local food businesses in developing their businesses and products; and (ii) the support he has given to promoting these businesses and products in (a) Northern Ireland; (b) the UK; (c) Ireland; and (d) Europe.","answerText":"Invest NI has made over 100 offers of financial assistance since April 2020 to support food and drink businesses and is committed to working with the industry to increase food and drink export sales by £1.5bn over the next five years.\n\nAs well as financial assistance, the agency also supports NI companies to participate in trade shows, such as London Speciality Food Show, Anuga and Sial. It also facilitates buyer introductions with major retailers including Tesco, Aldi, Lidl and Dunnes; and runs capability programmes in the UK, Ireland and in international markets.\n\nInvest NI’s Consumer Insights team assists with market research and the Trade Advisory Service delivers specialist support in-market.","answerHtml":"Invest NI has made over 100 offers of financial assistance since April 2020 to support food and drink businesses and is committed to working with the industry to increase food and drink export sales by £1.5bn over the next five years.
As well as financial assistance, the agency also supports NI companies to participate in trade shows, such as London Speciality Food Show, Anuga and Sial. It also facilitates buyer introductions with major retailers including Tesco, Aldi, Lidl and Dunnes; and runs capability programmes in the UK, Ireland and in international markets.
Invest NI’s Consumer Insights team assists with market research and the Trade Advisory Service delivers specialist support in-market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023774%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352920"}},{"id":"352919","reference":"AQW 23773/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-06","answerBy":"2021-10-21","answered":"2022-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of outdoor areas, parks and buildings currently in public use that are privately owned, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Department for Communities currently leases two privately owned office buildings, namely Cleaver House and Great Northern Tower, both in Belfast City Centre.\n\nThe Department also occupies a number of office buildings leased by the Department of Finance. Information on the ownership of such buildings is not held by DfC and is a matter for the Department of Finance.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities currently leases two privately owned office buildings, namely Cleaver House and Great Northern Tower, both in Belfast City Centre.
The Department also occupies a number of office buildings leased by the Department of Finance. Information on the ownership of such buildings is not held by DfC and is a matter for the Department of Finance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023773%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352919"}},{"id":"352918","reference":"AQW 23772/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-06","answerBy":"2021-10-21","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the percentage of medical staff in each Health and Social Care Trust that are fully vaccinated; and (ii) the efforts he is making to increase this number.","answerText":"Comprehensive information for every Trust is not readily available as it was not collected in the first stages of the vaccination program. While this will be available for the booster program, it is not anticipated that this information will become available retrospectively.\n\nWhile vaccination only occurs with consent of the patient, throughout the vaccination programme there has been regular messaging to staff and myth busting encouraging uptake of the offer of vaccination. Every effort was made to make accessing vaccination as easy as possible with staff eligible to walk in to vaccination centres and pop up clinics without prior appointment.","answerHtml":"Comprehensive information for every Trust is not readily available as it was not collected in the first stages of the vaccination program. While this will be available for the booster program, it is not anticipated that this information will become available retrospectively.
While vaccination only occurs with consent of the patient, throughout the vaccination programme there has been regular messaging to staff and myth busting encouraging uptake of the offer of vaccination. Every effort was made to make accessing vaccination as easy as possible with staff eligible to walk in to vaccination centres and pop up clinics without prior appointment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023772%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352918","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352918"}},{"id":"352917","reference":"AQW 23771/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-06","answerBy":"2021-10-21","answered":"2021-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the anticipated roll-out of support services for those with long-COVID; and (ii) to detail the various services that will be made available.","answerText":"Work is progressing on the implementation of services for the assessment and treatment of post-Covid-19 services, in line with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance.\n\nIn June, I approved a 5 strand model of service provision which features:\n\nPost COVID-19 Syndrome patients referred by primary or secondary care to a one-stop-shop MDT assessment service;\n\nBespoke pulmonary rehabilitation / dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms post COVID-19;\n\nAdditional support for patients discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19);\n\nStrengthening psychology support to all Trusts; and,\n\nSignposting and access to self-management resources.\n\nIt remains our aim to establish services by the end of October 2021. We are working to ensure that the services will be in place across all Health and Social Care Trusts and that they will be open to referrals from both primary and secondary care. In the meantime, patients displaying long COVID symptoms will continue to be treated via existing services in both primary and secondary care.","answerHtml":"Work is progressing on the implementation of services for the assessment and treatment of post-Covid-19 services, in line with the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance.
In June, I approved a 5 strand model of service provision which features:
Post COVID-19 Syndrome patients referred by primary or secondary care to a one-stop-shop MDT assessment service;
Bespoke pulmonary rehabilitation / dysfunctional breathing service for patients with significant respiratory symptoms post COVID-19;
Additional support for patients discharged from critical care (both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19);
Strengthening psychology support to all Trusts; and,
Signposting and access to self-management resources.
It remains our aim to establish services by the end of October 2021. We are working to ensure that the services will be in place across all Health and Social Care Trusts and that they will be open to referrals from both primary and secondary care. In the meantime, patients displaying long COVID symptoms will continue to be treated via existing services in both primary and secondary care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023771%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352917","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352917"}},{"id":"352704","reference":"AQW 23679/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the gap between social housing supply and demand in the Causeway Coast and Glens area, as highlighted by the Housing Executive’s Housing Investment Plan 2021; and (ii) to detail her plans to reform social housing delivery.","answerText":"The current projected housing need for the Causeway Coast and Glens area is for 1,010 new social homes between now and 2025.\n\nI can advise that within the Causeway Coast and Glens council area there are currently 154 social housing units under construction.\n\nThere are also 126 social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2021/22 – 2023/24.\n\nProgrammed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to I am committed to increasing the housing units delivered through the Social Housing Development Programme. This will require policy changes, with a particular focus on areas of housing need. We need to ensure new homes are built where houses are needed and my Department is working with the Housing Executive and Housing Associations to identify what actions will need to be taken.","answerHtml":"The current projected housing need for the Causeway Coast and Glens area is for 1,010 new social homes between now and 2025.
I can advise that within the Causeway Coast and Glens council area there are currently 154 social housing units under construction.
There are also 126 social housing units programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2021/22 – 2023/24.
Programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to I am committed to increasing the housing units delivered through the Social Housing Development Programme. This will require policy changes, with a particular focus on areas of housing need. We need to ensure new homes are built where houses are needed and my Department is working with the Housing Executive and Housing Associations to identify what actions will need to be taken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023679%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352704"}},{"id":"352703","reference":"AQW 23678/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the redevelopment of Coleraine Grammar School, including the anticipated start date and funding levels.","answerText":"Coleraine Grammar School was announced in May 2018 to advance in design under the second call to the School Enhancement Programme (SEP2). The SEP2 Project is currently progressing through the design stages and the RIBA Stage 3 report is with Departmental officials for review. Planning and Listed Building Consent applications were lodged with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on 27 September 2021.\n\nIt is currently anticipated that construction will begin in the summer of 2022.\n\nThe total estimated investment by the Department in this project is circa £9 million.","answerHtml":"Coleraine Grammar School was announced in May 2018 to advance in design under the second call to the School Enhancement Programme (SEP2). The SEP2 Project is currently progressing through the design stages and the RIBA Stage 3 report is with Departmental officials for review. Planning and Listed Building Consent applications were lodged with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council on 27 September 2021.
It is currently anticipated that construction will begin in the summer of 2022.
The total estimated investment by the Department in this project is circa £9 million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023678%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352703","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352703"}},{"id":"352702","reference":"AQW 23677/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the ways in which his Department is promoting breastfeeding; and (ii) any new events or initiative he has planned to raise the profile of breastfeeding.","answerText":"Improving breastfeeding rates requires a multi-faceted approach, which is detailed within the 20 Actions of the Breastfeeding Strategy. Through this the PHA supports a range of projects to increase awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding via established initiatives such as the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative standards in maternity and community settings; training of health professionals; development of breastfeeding posts within Trusts; mother to mother peer support; La Leche League (LLL) and National Childbirth Trust (NCT) voluntary breastfeeding support; Tiny Life breast pump loan services and the annual ‘Breastival’ a festival to celebrate, promote and normalise breastfeeding in Northern Ireland; and the PHA Breastfeeding Welcome Here (BWH) Scheme. PHA supports a number of CV sector organisations with providing information and support to expectant and new parents.\n\nPlans are in place to develop and extend these services in new and innovative ways. For example, it is planned that the BWH Scheme is going to expand into more public sector organisations, increasing the visibility and therefore reach to promote and normalise breastfeeding. Breastival, LLL and NCT continue to work with the PHA to evolve and utilise resources to support the promotion of breastfeeding within local communities. Community Pharmacists are willing to engage in training and therefore be a local source of breastfeeding support and through the BWH Scheme will continue to promote and normalise breastfeeding.","answerHtml":"Improving breastfeeding rates requires a multi-faceted approach, which is detailed within the 20 Actions of the Breastfeeding Strategy. Through this the PHA supports a range of projects to increase awareness of the benefits of breastfeeding via established initiatives such as the UNICEF UK Baby Friendly Initiative standards in maternity and community settings; training of health professionals; development of breastfeeding posts within Trusts; mother to mother peer support; La Leche League (LLL) and National Childbirth Trust (NCT) voluntary breastfeeding support; Tiny Life breast pump loan services and the annual ‘Breastival’ a festival to celebrate, promote and normalise breastfeeding in Northern Ireland; and the PHA Breastfeeding Welcome Here (BWH) Scheme. PHA supports a number of CV sector organisations with providing information and support to expectant and new parents.
Plans are in place to develop and extend these services in new and innovative ways. For example, it is planned that the BWH Scheme is going to expand into more public sector organisations, increasing the visibility and therefore reach to promote and normalise breastfeeding. Breastival, LLL and NCT continue to work with the PHA to evolve and utilise resources to support the promotion of breastfeeding within local communities. Community Pharmacists are willing to engage in training and therefore be a local source of breastfeeding support and through the BWH Scheme will continue to promote and normalise breastfeeding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023677%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352702","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352702"}},{"id":"352701","reference":"AQW 23676/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail absenteeism levels within the Civil Service in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The number of working days lost per staff year, percentage of available working days lost and the total number of working days lost, due to sickness absence, are detailed in the table below for the last five financial years.\n\nKey Facts1\tYear\n2016/2017\t2017/2018\t2018/2019\t2019/2020\t2020/2021\nWorking Days Lost per Staff Year\t12.5\t13.0\t12.6\t12.9\t9.8\nPercentage of Available Working Days Lost (%)\t5.6\t6.0\t5.8\t5.9\t4.4\nTotal Number of Working Days Lost\t270,458\t279,996\t268,334\t272,797\t207,160\n\nSource: HR Connect\n\n1. The figures are presented in the format of financial year consistent with the National and Official Statistics.","answerHtml":"The number of working days lost per staff year, percentage of available working days lost and the total number of working days lost, due to sickness absence, are detailed in the table below for the last five financial years.
| Key Facts1 | Year | ||||
| 2016/2017 | 2017/2018 | 2018/2019 | 2019/2020 | 2020/2021 | |
| Working Days Lost per Staff Year | 12.5 | 13.0 | 12.6 | 12.9 | 9.8 |
| Percentage of Available Working Days Lost (%) | 5.6 | 6.0 | 5.8 | 5.9 | 4.4 |
| Total Number of Working Days Lost | 270,458 | 279,996 | 268,334 | 272,797 | 207,160 |
Source: HR Connect
1. The figures are presented in the format of financial year consistent with the National and Official Statistics.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023676%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352701","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352701"}},{"id":"352700","reference":"AQW 23675/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-05","answerBy":"2021-10-20","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any conversations he has had with (i) caravan park owners; and (ii) tenants regarding disputed increases in site fees.","answerText":"I have not had any conversations with caravan park owners or tenants regarding disputed increases in site fees.\n\nHowever, officials from my Department's Trading Standards Service (TSS) have provided advice to caravan owners and Caravan Occupiers' Associations, throughout 2020 and 2021, in relation to pitch licence fees. Additionally, earlier this year, TSS engaged with the owners of caravan sites in Northern Ireland about price transparency in relation to increases in site fees for annual agreements.\n\nI would recommend that any caravan park or caravan owner, interested in obtaining further information regarding consumer rights in relation to caravanning, contact the TSS Consumerline free advice service on:\n\n0300 123 62 62 or by email to: Consumerline@economy-ni.gov.uk","answerHtml":"I have not had any conversations with caravan park owners or tenants regarding disputed increases in site fees.
However, officials from my Department's Trading Standards Service (TSS) have provided advice to caravan owners and Caravan Occupiers' Associations, throughout 2020 and 2021, in relation to pitch licence fees. Additionally, earlier this year, TSS engaged with the owners of caravan sites in Northern Ireland about price transparency in relation to increases in site fees for annual agreements.
I would recommend that any caravan park or caravan owner, interested in obtaining further information regarding consumer rights in relation to caravanning, contact the TSS Consumerline free advice service on:
0300 123 62 62 or by email to: Consumerline@economy-ni.gov.uk
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023675%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352700","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352700"}},{"id":"352469","reference":"AQW 23602/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-04","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail any conversations she has had with the PSNI and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding (i) the options for; and (ii) benefits of installing CCTV in areas where anti-social behaviour is being regularly reported.","answerText":"I do not routinely have conversations regarding either the options for, or benefits of, the installation of CCTV in any council area where anti-social behaviour (ASB) is being regularly reported. My Department has no funding mechanism available for CCTV related projects and is also not in a position to provide funding for CCTV, given existing ongoing priorities and constraints on budgets.\n\nThe Interfaces Programme does occasionally receive requests to contribute to the costs of upgrading CCTV cameras specifically linked to interface work. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis but these are very peripheral engagements in the overall context of the provision of CCTV across Northern Ireland.\n\nIn terms of tackling ASB, my Department, together with the Northern Ireland Policing Board, provides substantial annual funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) to lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues within each council area, including ASB issues.\n\nPCSPs seek to address ASB by working with their local communities and other partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.","answerHtml":"I do not routinely have conversations regarding either the options for, or benefits of, the installation of CCTV in any council area where anti-social behaviour (ASB) is being regularly reported. My Department has no funding mechanism available for CCTV related projects and is also not in a position to provide funding for CCTV, given existing ongoing priorities and constraints on budgets.
The Interfaces Programme does occasionally receive requests to contribute to the costs of upgrading CCTV cameras specifically linked to interface work. Requests are considered on a case-by-case basis but these are very peripheral engagements in the overall context of the provision of CCTV across Northern Ireland.
In terms of tackling ASB, my Department, together with the Northern Ireland Policing Board, provides substantial annual funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) to lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues within each council area, including ASB issues.
PCSPs seek to address ASB by working with their local communities and other partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023602%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352469","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352469"}},{"id":"352468","reference":"AQW 23601/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-04","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) his plans for examining the spending of the High Street Voucher scheme cards, so that a cost/benefit analysis of the scheme may be undertaken; and (ii) what elements of the scheme will be considered in this analysis.","answerText":"It is my intention to commission an evaluation of the High Street Stimulus Scheme following its closure.\n\nThis will be undertaken in accordance with DOF guidance on evaluations, and will consider a full range of evaluation metrics including the scheme's performance against its original objectives as well as an assessment of its economic impact.","answerHtml":"It is my intention to commission an evaluation of the High Street Stimulus Scheme following its closure.
This will be undertaken in accordance with DOF guidance on evaluations, and will consider a full range of evaluation metrics including the scheme's performance against its original objectives as well as an assessment of its economic impact.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023601%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352468","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352468"}},{"id":"352467","reference":"AQW 23600/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-04","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of pupils that have been told by the Public Health Agency, in this academic term,that they may not return to school until they take a PCR test, broken down by constituency per week.","answerText":"PHA do not collate this information in the format requested.\n\nPublished information on School Surveillance can be accessed using the following link:\n\nhttps://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/coronavirus-bulletin","answerHtml":"PHA do not collate this information in the format requested.
Published information on School Surveillance can be accessed using the following link:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/coronavirus-bulletin
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023600%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352467","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352467"}},{"id":"352466","reference":"AQW 23599/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-04","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the increase in the number of people living in poverty that will result from the £20-per-week reduction in Universal Credit; and for her assessment of how this decrease in Universal Credit will affect poverty levels in the long-term.","answerText":"There are currently 103,550 households in payment, meaning that the £20 uplift provided just over £2.07m additional money each week (just under £108m per year) to people currently claiming Universal Credit.\n\nThis uplift provided critical financial support for many households and its removal will mean that they will continue to suffer the acute financial pressures and impacts of job losses and increased debt as a result of the pandemic.","answerHtml":"There are currently 103,550 households in payment, meaning that the £20 uplift provided just over £2.07m additional money each week (just under £108m per year) to people currently claiming Universal Credit.
This uplift provided critical financial support for many households and its removal will mean that they will continue to suffer the acute financial pressures and impacts of job losses and increased debt as a result of the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023599%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352466","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352466"}},{"id":"352465","reference":"AQW 23598/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-04","answerBy":"2021-10-19","answered":"2021-10-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the increased support that is being given to community pharmacies as they become the primary facilitators of COVID-19 vaccinations.","answerText":"As of 7 October 2021, 135 pharmacies are contracted to provide first and second doses of the Moderna vaccine to everyone aged 18 years and over who is not already vaccinated. The lead role of community pharmacy in this important new phase of the vaccination programme builds on the important part that the sector has played in the vaccination rollout to date, with over 145,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered through community pharmacy since March 2021, and taps into the accessibility and ability of community pharmacies to engage with harder to reach patient populations.\n\nMy Department has worked collaboratively with the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) and Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI) to develop robust service arrangements that enable community pharmacy teams to deliver this important role while maintaining other essential HSC services. These arrangements have included agreement on remuneration for vaccines administered, as well as payments for additional service set up costs such as staff training and development of standard operating procedures.\n\nIn addition my Department continues to support the capacity and capability of the community pharmacy network to lead the ongoing delivery of vaccination programmes through the issue of vaccination protocols under Regulation 247 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, which provide an additional legal mechanism for an expanded workforce to administer COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. The Chief Pharmaceutical Officer has also recently written to community pharmacy contractors to provide clarification around the requirement for fully vaccinated community pharmacy staff who are close contacts of COVID-19 cases to self-isolate, which will also help to support the availability of the community pharmacy workforce to meet these challenges.","answerHtml":"As of 7 October 2021, 135 pharmacies are contracted to provide first and second doses of the Moderna vaccine to everyone aged 18 years and over who is not already vaccinated. The lead role of community pharmacy in this important new phase of the vaccination programme builds on the important part that the sector has played in the vaccination rollout to date, with over 145,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccine administered through community pharmacy since March 2021, and taps into the accessibility and ability of community pharmacies to engage with harder to reach patient populations.
My Department has worked collaboratively with the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) and Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI) to develop robust service arrangements that enable community pharmacy teams to deliver this important role while maintaining other essential HSC services. These arrangements have included agreement on remuneration for vaccines administered, as well as payments for additional service set up costs such as staff training and development of standard operating procedures.
In addition my Department continues to support the capacity and capability of the community pharmacy network to lead the ongoing delivery of vaccination programmes through the issue of vaccination protocols under Regulation 247 of the Human Medicines Regulations 2012, which provide an additional legal mechanism for an expanded workforce to administer COVID-19 and influenza vaccines. The Chief Pharmaceutical Officer has also recently written to community pharmacy contractors to provide clarification around the requirement for fully vaccinated community pharmacy staff who are close contacts of COVID-19 cases to self-isolate, which will also help to support the availability of the community pharmacy workforce to meet these challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023598%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352465","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352465"}},{"id":"352356","reference":"AQW 23542/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-01","answerBy":"2021-10-18","answered":"2021-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of people who were on furlough in Northern Ireland when the scheme ended; and (ii) the estimated number of these that have recommenced their jobs.","answerText":"Furlough figures at the end of September are not yet available.\n\nThe latest available provisional figures show that some 29,700 jobs remained on furlough at 31 August 2021, which is approximately 4% of eligible employments in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Furlough figures at the end of September are not yet available.
The latest available provisional figures show that some 29,700 jobs remained on furlough at 31 August 2021, which is approximately 4% of eligible employments in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023542%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352356"}},{"id":"352355","reference":"AQW 23541/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-01","answerBy":"2021-10-18","answered":"2021-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline the reasons for not bringing Northern Ireland in line with Great Britain in scrapping the need for tests to tow trailers up to 3,500kg in weight.","answerText":"I became aware, following the announcement, that GB is introducing changes to HGV tests and Class B+E trailer tests to try to help the sector tackle the lorry driver shortage. The implication of these changes for road safety will need further consideration, and so there are no current plans to replicate these changes here.\n\nIn addition, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driving test slots. In addition to normal weekday slots they also now offer LGV driving tests on a Saturday and on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. However, uptake from the industry, particularly on Sundays, has been less than expected, given the demand for these types of tests. Overtime is also used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity.\n\nIn the first four full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 1,290 LGV driving tests, which is 65% higher than the five-year average for that period, demonstrating a clear commitment to providing increased testing capacity for the sector.\n\nTesting is not seen as a significant reason for HGV driver shortages here. A recent RHA survey identifies driver’s retirements, Brexit and changes to off-payroll working rules as the three main reasons for the shortages. Hauliers in the UK wide survey did not identify testing as an issue.\n\nThe DVA is continuing to explore a number of options to increase the number of LGV examiners to address current demands at those test centres where LGV testing is offered. This includes identifying current examiners with relevant licences to be trained to conduct LGV Tests.\n\nThe DVA also engages with various LGV driver training schools in relation to test appointments. Test Centre Managers frequently liaise directly with the training schools to meet specific requirements and help address demands. Standing appointments for LGV driver training schools, which were previously suspended due to Covid 19 restrictions, have now been reinstated. This allows more flexibility for the industry to avail of LGV driver test appointments.\n\nAt this time the DVA can facilitate practical driving tests and theory tests for LGV drivers. The DVA is not aware of any specific concerns being raised by training schools regarding the availability of appointments, but training schools are encouraged to liaise directly with their appropriate centre management team should additional testing capacity be required. The DVA will continue to liaise with training schools to monitor the demand for tests.","answerHtml":"I became aware, following the announcement, that GB is introducing changes to HGV tests and Class B+E trailer tests to try to help the sector tackle the lorry driver shortage. The implication of these changes for road safety will need further consideration, and so there are no current plans to replicate these changes here.
In addition, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driving test slots. In addition to normal weekday slots they also now offer LGV driving tests on a Saturday and on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. However, uptake from the industry, particularly on Sundays, has been less than expected, given the demand for these types of tests. Overtime is also used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity.
In the first four full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 1,290 LGV driving tests, which is 65% higher than the five-year average for that period, demonstrating a clear commitment to providing increased testing capacity for the sector.
Testing is not seen as a significant reason for HGV driver shortages here. A recent RHA survey identifies driver’s retirements, Brexit and changes to off-payroll working rules as the three main reasons for the shortages. Hauliers in the UK wide survey did not identify testing as an issue.
The DVA is continuing to explore a number of options to increase the number of LGV examiners to address current demands at those test centres where LGV testing is offered. This includes identifying current examiners with relevant licences to be trained to conduct LGV Tests.
The DVA also engages with various LGV driver training schools in relation to test appointments. Test Centre Managers frequently liaise directly with the training schools to meet specific requirements and help address demands. Standing appointments for LGV driver training schools, which were previously suspended due to Covid 19 restrictions, have now been reinstated. This allows more flexibility for the industry to avail of LGV driver test appointments.
At this time the DVA can facilitate practical driving tests and theory tests for LGV drivers. The DVA is not aware of any specific concerns being raised by training schools regarding the availability of appointments, but training schools are encouraged to liaise directly with their appropriate centre management team should additional testing capacity be required. The DVA will continue to liaise with training schools to monitor the demand for tests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023541%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352355"}},{"id":"352354","reference":"AQW 23540/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-01","answerBy":"2021-10-18","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of whether those over 50 were disproportionately enetered into furlough arrangements; and (ii) what steps he is taking to ensuring this age group is supported back into work.","answerText":"(i) The latest available provisional figures show that some 29,700 jobs remained on the UK Government’s furlough scheme at 31 August 2021, which is approximately 4% of eligible employments in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe latest available provisional figures for Northern Ireland as at 31 August broken down by age are provided in the table below.\n\nNI Employments on Furlough\n31 August 2021\nUnder 25\t3,120\n25 to 29\t2,680\n30 to 34\t3,110\n35 to 39\t3,490\n40 to 44\t3,440\n45 to 49\t3,390\n50 to 54\t3,440\n55 to 59\t2,940\n60 to 64\t2,220\n65 and over\t1,910\nTotal\t29,700\n\nThe table below shows the percentage of eligible UK employees that were on furlough by age over the lifetime of the scheme. This data is not available at a Northern Ireland level.\n\nUnder 18\t18 to 24\t25 to 34\t35 to 44\t45 to 54\t55 to 64\t65 & over\n31 July 2020\t34%\t24%\t17%\t15%\t14%\t16%\t22%\n31 Aug 2020\t21%\t16%\t12%\t11%\t11%\t12%\t16%\n30 Sept 2020\t14%\t11%\t9%\t9%\t8%\t9%\t13%\n31 Oct 2020\t11%\t9%\t8%\t7%\t7%\t8%\t11%\n30 Nov 2020\t32%\t19%\t13%\t11%\t11%\t11%\t15%\n31 Dec 2020\t31%\t20%\t13%\t12%\t11%\t11%\t15%\n31 Jan 2021\t37%\t23%\t15%\t14%\t14%\t14%\t18%\n28 Feb 2021\t36%\t22%\t15%\t14%\t13%\t14%\t18%\n31 Mar 2021\t34%\t21%\t14%\t13%\t12%\t13%\t17%\n30 April 2021\t26%\t16%\t11%\t11%\t10%\t11%\t14%\n31 May 2021\t13%\t10%\t8%\t8%\t8%\t8%\t12%\n30 June 2021\t7%\t6%\t6%\t6%\t6%\t7%\t10%\n31 July 2021\t5%\t5%\t5%\t6%\t5%\t6%\t8%\n31 Aug 2021\t4%\t4%\t4%\t5%\t5%\t5%\t7%\n\nThe above table indicates that the UK furlough scheme has been important in sustaining employment across the age spectrum both in Northern Ireland and across the UK as a whole.\n\n(ii) My Department remains focused on ensuring that our people can achieve their full potential and benefit from strong labour market engagement. In 2020/21 The Skills Intervention Programme was introduced to support those individuals whose employment was most impacted by Covid-19. Free courses were provided covering a number of priority sectors.\n\nLocal Further and Higher Education providers delivered courses online ranging from level 2 to level 6. Through the Skills Intervention Programme, it was envisaged that participants on completion of a course and with the lifting of Government Covid-19 restrictions, would be prepared for a return to paid employment.\n\nSkill Up – The Flexible Skills Fund is a new initiative, following on from the success of The Skills Intervention Programme, delivering free training places in an investment of up to £23million over three years. Skill Up will fully fund the local further education colleges and universities delivering qualifications accessible by all NI citizens aged 18 and over.\n\nSkills for a 10X Economy, includes all age ranges in Northern Ireland, and part of the strategy includes creating a culture of lifelong learning for all. To summarise, the overarching proposal is to create a new Lifelong Learning Action Plan, which will consider a range of issues such as increasing adults’ motivation to learn, the role of business in promoting a culture of lifelong learning and assessing the constraints to participation. While a review, in the context of consultation responses is ongoing, these proposals have been broadly endorsed through the consultation process.","answerHtml":"(i) The latest available provisional figures show that some 29,700 jobs remained on the UK Government’s furlough scheme at 31 August 2021, which is approximately 4% of eligible employments in Northern Ireland.
The latest available provisional figures for Northern Ireland as at 31 August broken down by age are provided in the table below.
| NI Employments on Furlough 31 August 2021 | |
| Under 25 | 3,120 |
| 25 to 29 | 2,680 |
| 30 to 34 | 3,110 |
| 35 to 39 | 3,490 |
| 40 to 44 | 3,440 |
| 45 to 49 | 3,390 |
| 50 to 54 | 3,440 |
| 55 to 59 | 2,940 |
| 60 to 64 | 2,220 |
| 65 and over | 1,910 |
| Total | 29,700 |
The table below shows the percentage of eligible UK employees that were on furlough by age over the lifetime of the scheme. This data is not available at a Northern Ireland level.
| Under 18 | 18 to 24 | 25 to 34 | 35 to 44 | 45 to 54 | 55 to 64 | 65 & over | |
| 31 July 2020 | 34% | 24% | 17% | 15% | 14% | 16% | 22% |
| 31 Aug 2020 | 21% | 16% | 12% | 11% | 11% | 12% | 16% |
| 30 Sept 2020 | 14% | 11% | 9% | 9% | 8% | 9% | 13% |
| 31 Oct 2020 | 11% | 9% | 8% | 7% | 7% | 8% | 11% |
| 30 Nov 2020 | 32% | 19% | 13% | 11% | 11% | 11% | 15% |
| 31 Dec 2020 | 31% | 20% | 13% | 12% | 11% | 11% | 15% |
| 31 Jan 2021 | 37% | 23% | 15% | 14% | 14% | 14% | 18% |
| 28 Feb 2021 | 36% | 22% | 15% | 14% | 13% | 14% | 18% |
| 31 Mar 2021 | 34% | 21% | 14% | 13% | 12% | 13% | 17% |
| 30 April 2021 | 26% | 16% | 11% | 11% | 10% | 11% | 14% |
| 31 May 2021 | 13% | 10% | 8% | 8% | 8% | 8% | 12% |
| 30 June 2021 | 7% | 6% | 6% | 6% | 6% | 7% | 10% |
| 31 July 2021 | 5% | 5% | 5% | 6% | 5% | 6% | 8% |
| 31 Aug 2021 | 4% | 4% | 4% | 5% | 5% | 5% | 7% |
The above table indicates that the UK furlough scheme has been important in sustaining employment across the age spectrum both in Northern Ireland and across the UK as a whole.
(ii) My Department remains focused on ensuring that our people can achieve their full potential and benefit from strong labour market engagement. In 2020/21 The Skills Intervention Programme was introduced to support those individuals whose employment was most impacted by Covid-19. Free courses were provided covering a number of priority sectors.
Local Further and Higher Education providers delivered courses online ranging from level 2 to level 6. Through the Skills Intervention Programme, it was envisaged that participants on completion of a course and with the lifting of Government Covid-19 restrictions, would be prepared for a return to paid employment.
Skill Up – The Flexible Skills Fund is a new initiative, following on from the success of The Skills Intervention Programme, delivering free training places in an investment of up to £23million over three years. Skill Up will fully fund the local further education colleges and universities delivering qualifications accessible by all NI citizens aged 18 and over.
Skills for a 10X Economy, includes all age ranges in Northern Ireland, and part of the strategy includes creating a culture of lifelong learning for all. To summarise, the overarching proposal is to create a new Lifelong Learning Action Plan, which will consider a range of issues such as increasing adults’ motivation to learn, the role of business in promoting a culture of lifelong learning and assessing the constraints to participation. While a review, in the context of consultation responses is ongoing, these proposals have been broadly endorsed through the consultation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023540%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352354"}},{"id":"352353","reference":"AQW 23539/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-01","answerBy":"2021-10-18","answered":"2021-10-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) whether her Department is able to adopt ownership of a busy but damaged road of indeterminate ownership; and (ii) to outline what happens to such roads if they continue to deteriorate.","answerText":"My Department is not responsible for maintaining roads which are not within its ownership and will generally only adopt roads that have been brought up to standard either by developers through the Private Streets Determination process or by the owners and/or frontagers in accordance with Article 9 of the Private Streets Order.\n\nThe Department would not be in a position to adopt and repair other damaged roads that are currently unadopted; responsibility for their repair would remain with the frontagers or landowners and even if land ownership is unknown, my Department could not take over such a responsibility.\n\nWhile I understand there would be a desire from frontagers on private roads and lanes to have improvement works carried out by my Department, this is simply not feasible due to the current budget position and the many other competing pressures facing my Department.","answerHtml":"My Department is not responsible for maintaining roads which are not within its ownership and will generally only adopt roads that have been brought up to standard either by developers through the Private Streets Determination process or by the owners and/or frontagers in accordance with Article 9 of the Private Streets Order.
The Department would not be in a position to adopt and repair other damaged roads that are currently unadopted; responsibility for their repair would remain with the frontagers or landowners and even if land ownership is unknown, my Department could not take over such a responsibility.
While I understand there would be a desire from frontagers on private roads and lanes to have improvement works carried out by my Department, this is simply not feasible due to the current budget position and the many other competing pressures facing my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023539%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352353"}},{"id":"352352","reference":"AQW 23538/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-10-01","answerBy":"2021-10-18","answered":"2021-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail what steps she is planning to take to address the issue of cars being damaged on potholed roads not owned by her Department.","answerText":"Article 8 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 places a duty on my Department to maintain all public roads in reasonable condition. This duty is fulfilled by complying with a set of Maintenance Standards for Safety which are designed to ensure a consistent service level across the network and safe highways for all road users.\n\nMy Department continues to utilise a system of regular inspections of the public road network and in 2021/22, as in previous years, the highest priority road defects will continue to be repaired across the entire public road network.\n\nMy Department is not, however, responsible for maintaining roads which are not within its ownership. The responsibility for the maintenance of such roads lies with the relevant landowners or frontagers. While I understand there would be a desire from frontagers on private roads and lanes to have improvement works carried out by my Department, this is simply not feasible due to the current budget position and the many other competing pressures facing my Department.\n\nMy Department will, however, continue to discharge its responsibilities relating to the determination and adoption of new residential streets, sewage facilities and street lighting in line with current legislation. This will include appropriate enforcement action and use of bond monies to complete street works, where developers have failed to complete the agreed works. Until such a time as developments are adopted, responsibility for repair of potholes within private streets developments remains with the developer.","answerHtml":"Article 8 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 places a duty on my Department to maintain all public roads in reasonable condition. This duty is fulfilled by complying with a set of Maintenance Standards for Safety which are designed to ensure a consistent service level across the network and safe highways for all road users.
My Department continues to utilise a system of regular inspections of the public road network and in 2021/22, as in previous years, the highest priority road defects will continue to be repaired across the entire public road network.
My Department is not, however, responsible for maintaining roads which are not within its ownership. The responsibility for the maintenance of such roads lies with the relevant landowners or frontagers. While I understand there would be a desire from frontagers on private roads and lanes to have improvement works carried out by my Department, this is simply not feasible due to the current budget position and the many other competing pressures facing my Department.
My Department will, however, continue to discharge its responsibilities relating to the determination and adoption of new residential streets, sewage facilities and street lighting in line with current legislation. This will include appropriate enforcement action and use of bond monies to complete street works, where developers have failed to complete the agreed works. Until such a time as developments are adopted, responsibility for repair of potholes within private streets developments remains with the developer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023538%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352352"}},{"id":"352115","reference":"AQW 23468/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-30","answerBy":"2021-10-15","answered":"2021-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) to detail any discussions he has had with the Westminster government regarding the establishment of freeports in Northern Ireland; and (ii) for his assessment of where and how freeports would best benefit Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury (CST) twice in recent months, including jointly with Ministers from Scotland and Wales, to press for a fair funding and incentive package if a Freeport is to be established here in the North. I have also requested, on both occasions, a meeting to discuss this matter further. My officials have also engaged with Whitehall officials on this issue.\n\nTo date I have not received a response from the CST. Until there is clarity on a potential Freeport package, it is not possible to properly assess where a Freeport could usefully be established here, nor the potential economic benefits that it could bring to the North.","answerHtml":"I have written to the Chief Secretary to the Treasury (CST) twice in recent months, including jointly with Ministers from Scotland and Wales, to press for a fair funding and incentive package if a Freeport is to be established here in the North. I have also requested, on both occasions, a meeting to discuss this matter further. My officials have also engaged with Whitehall officials on this issue.
To date I have not received a response from the CST. Until there is clarity on a potential Freeport package, it is not possible to properly assess where a Freeport could usefully be established here, nor the potential economic benefits that it could bring to the North.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023468%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352115"}},{"id":"352114","reference":"AQW 23467/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-30","answerBy":"2021-10-15","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the increased support she will provide to households struggling with reduced Universal Credit support and increased fuel costs over winter.","answerText":"I have repeatedly demonstrated my determination to protect the most vulnerable people in our society and to targeting resources to those most in need.\n\nI have put a number of changes in place to ensure that the social security system is more flexible, to relieve hardship and to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require.\n\nMy department will continue to exhaust options and improve systems to provide support to people when they need it.","answerHtml":"I have repeatedly demonstrated my determination to protect the most vulnerable people in our society and to targeting resources to those most in need.
I have put a number of changes in place to ensure that the social security system is more flexible, to relieve hardship and to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require.
My department will continue to exhaust options and improve systems to provide support to people when they need it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023467%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352114"}},{"id":"352113","reference":"AQW 23466/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-30","answerBy":"2021-10-15","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the impact on the entertainment industry of the recent cancellations of major events due to the cap on numbers and other restrictions.","answerText":"Whilst this is a policy area for others in the Executive, nevertheless I would welcome the relaxation of restrictions and my department will continue to work to facilitate the safe reopening of the economy.","answerHtml":"Whilst this is a policy area for others in the Executive, nevertheless I would welcome the relaxation of restrictions and my department will continue to work to facilitate the safe reopening of the economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023466%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352113"}},{"id":"352112","reference":"AQW 23465/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-30","answerBy":"2021-10-15","answered":"2021-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when cinemas will be able to start applying for licences to sell alcohol.","answerText":"The provisions contained within the Act will come into effect in phases over the next few years with the first phase having commenced on 1 October. Work is ongoing to identify the most appropriate time to commence the remaining provisions within the Act however section 9 of the Act is currently scheduled for commencement in April 2022.","answerHtml":"The provisions contained within the Act will come into effect in phases over the next few years with the first phase having commenced on 1 October. Work is ongoing to identify the most appropriate time to commence the remaining provisions within the Act however section 9 of the Act is currently scheduled for commencement in April 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023465%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352112"}},{"id":"352111","reference":"AQW 23464/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-30","answerBy":"2021-10-15","answered":"2021-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the anticipated date when Ulster University’s Riverside Theatre will re-open for live performances.","answerText":"My Department does not have responsibility for arts or culture and does not hold responsibility, nor oversight, for this theatre. However on receipt of your question my officials sought a response, Ulster University stated:\n\n‘The Riverside Theatre at Ulster University’s Coleraine campus has continued to host a range of cultural and arts activities and performances in the context of restrictions related to covid-19, using online and outdoor facilities.\n\nFollowing the recent changes in advice relating to social distancing in theatres, the Riverside has scheduled a number of in-house public performances and workshops for the coming season and will continue to work with local and national production companies to develop a more varied programme of events to be delivered in-house, online and in other locations around the campus.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have responsibility for arts or culture and does not hold responsibility, nor oversight, for this theatre. However on receipt of your question my officials sought a response, Ulster University stated:
‘The Riverside Theatre at Ulster University’s Coleraine campus has continued to host a range of cultural and arts activities and performances in the context of restrictions related to covid-19, using online and outdoor facilities.
Following the recent changes in advice relating to social distancing in theatres, the Riverside has scheduled a number of in-house public performances and workshops for the coming season and will continue to work with local and national production companies to develop a more varied programme of events to be delivered in-house, online and in other locations around the campus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023464%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=352111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=352111"}},{"id":"351944","reference":"AQW 23383/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-29","answerBy":"2021-10-14","answered":"2021-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 21866/17-22, (i) to detail the process whereby local councils may secure the support of DfI Roads in order that they may legitimately apply for the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme; and (ii) whether she has passed this information to local councils.","answerText":"My recent response to AQW 23382/17-22 is helpful in setting out my Department’s support to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS).\n\nIn order to undertake works on-street e.g. charge point installations, an application for a Street Works Licence, should be submitted to the local DfI Roads Section Office. Alternatively, works can be carried out on-street, without the need to apply for a Street Works Licence, if the organisation carrying out the work has statutory powers here. I can confirm that my officials have informed local councils of this process.\n\nI would also reaffirm that my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and a meeting has now been set up with representatives from OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department. My officials also highlighted at this meeting that there are well established procedures within my Department to apply for a Street Works Licence. I would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"My recent response to AQW 23382/17-22 is helpful in setting out my Department’s support to assist local councils making an application to the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS).
In order to undertake works on-street e.g. charge point installations, an application for a Street Works Licence, should be submitted to the local DfI Roads Section Office. Alternatively, works can be carried out on-street, without the need to apply for a Street Works Licence, if the organisation carrying out the work has statutory powers here. I can confirm that my officials have informed local councils of this process.
I would also reaffirm that my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and a meeting has now been set up with representatives from OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department. My officials also highlighted at this meeting that there are well established procedures within my Department to apply for a Street Works Licence. I would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023383%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351944"}},{"id":"351943","reference":"AQW 23382/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-29","answerBy":"2021-10-14","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 21866/17-22, to detail the number and location of all EV charge points that have been successfully installed in Northern Ireland by local councils as a result of the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme.","answerText":"It is a matter for local councils to detail the number and location of all EV charge points that have been successfully installed in Northern Ireland by local councils as a result of the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI for 2021/22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking through the ORCS. The Department has been engaging with OZEV and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the ORCS, with reference to local councils in the North. Following discussions between my Department and OZEV in respect of the ORCS, the EST held a workshop late last year with our local councils about the scheme and indicated that it was prepared to hold further events to support councils in the North interested in applying to the ORCS scheme.\n\nMy Department is currently represented on an ORCS council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding which is being led by Derry City and Strabane District Council. My officials recently met with OZEV in respect of ORCS and it confirmed that it is very keen to see individual or collective applications from councils in the North. OZEV also advised that EST has recently acquired an extra resource, which if required, could assist our local councils by providing advice and guidance on the ORCS application process. I can also confirm that following this meeting, my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and a meeting has now been set up with representatives from OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department. I would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.\n\nI would also reaffirm that my Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will also include consideration of future requirements for publically available electric vehicle charge points in the North.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"It is a matter for local councils to detail the number and location of all EV charge points that have been successfully installed in Northern Ireland by local councils as a result of the On-Street Residential Chargepoint Scheme.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI for 2021/22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking through the ORCS. The Department has been engaging with OZEV and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the ORCS, with reference to local councils in the North. Following discussions between my Department and OZEV in respect of the ORCS, the EST held a workshop late last year with our local councils about the scheme and indicated that it was prepared to hold further events to support councils in the North interested in applying to the ORCS scheme.
My Department is currently represented on an ORCS council consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding which is being led by Derry City and Strabane District Council. My officials recently met with OZEV in respect of ORCS and it confirmed that it is very keen to see individual or collective applications from councils in the North. OZEV also advised that EST has recently acquired an extra resource, which if required, could assist our local councils by providing advice and guidance on the ORCS application process. I can also confirm that following this meeting, my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and a meeting has now been set up with representatives from OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department. I would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. My officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.
I would also reaffirm that my Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will also include consideration of future requirements for publically available electric vehicle charge points in the North.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023382%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351943"}},{"id":"351942","reference":"AQW 23381/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-29","answerBy":"2021-10-14","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the number of HGV licences issued for each month of the previous five years; and (ii) what plans she has to increase the number of HGV tests that are available.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not report on a monthly basis the number of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Licences issued. However, I would refer you to the DFI Driver, Vehicle, Operator and Enforcement Published Statistics on the DFI website. The published statistics, issued quarterly, contain details on the total number of Group 2 licences issued. The Group 2 category includes both HGV and Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licences issued.\n\nThe statistics also detail the driving licence stock and that provides information on the total number of licence holders who hold entitlement to drive vehicles in the HGV category.\n\nThe Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has, and continues, to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those customers seeking a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driving test.\n\nStanding appointments for LGV driver training schools were reinstated on 23 April, when driver testing resumed after the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions by the Executive. This arrangement allows the LGV training industry to better plan their driver test appointments.\n\nThe DVA continues to offer LGV tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. However, uptake from the industry, particularly on Sundays has been lower than expected given the demand for these types of tests. Overtime is also used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. The DVA is also progressing plans to increase the number of LGV examiners to address the current demand for LGV testing.\n\nThrough increasing its capacity in the first four full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 1,290 LGV driving tests, which is 65% higher than the five-year average for that period.\n\nI remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and we would ask customers for their continued patience.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not report on a monthly basis the number of Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) Licences issued. However, I would refer you to the DFI Driver, Vehicle, Operator and Enforcement Published Statistics on the DFI website. The published statistics, issued quarterly, contain details on the total number of Group 2 licences issued. The Group 2 category includes both HGV and Passenger Carrying Vehicle (PCV) licences issued.
The statistics also detail the driving licence stock and that provides information on the total number of licence holders who hold entitlement to drive vehicles in the HGV category.
The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has, and continues, to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those customers seeking a Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driving test.
Standing appointments for LGV driver training schools were reinstated on 23 April, when driver testing resumed after the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions by the Executive. This arrangement allows the LGV training industry to better plan their driver test appointments.
The DVA continues to offer LGV tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. However, uptake from the industry, particularly on Sundays has been lower than expected given the demand for these types of tests. Overtime is also used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. The DVA is also progressing plans to increase the number of LGV examiners to address the current demand for LGV testing.
Through increasing its capacity in the first four full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 1,290 LGV driving tests, which is 65% higher than the five-year average for that period.
I remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and we would ask customers for their continued patience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023381%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351942"}},{"id":"351941","reference":"AQW 23380/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-29","answerBy":"2021-10-14","answered":"2021-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in relation to the review of the Planning Act, (i) to outline the timetable for the various stages; (ii) who is conducting the review; and (iii) who will be consulted.","answerText":"As required by s.228(2) of the Planning Act (NI) 2011 (the Act), the regulations for the Review of the Implementation of the Act were made in October 2020, coming in to operation in November 2020. The review is being undertaken by the Department, as is required by s.228(1) of the Act.\n\nTo help inform the review, a Call for Evidence (CfE) paper issued on 15 February 2021 with contributions sought over an 8 week period ending on 16 April 2021. The CfE sought to target and engage with key stakeholders in the planning system including, councils, statutory consultees, professional bodies, and those with community, business and environmental interests, although it was also open to anyone to respond. The CfE attracted 55 responses from a wide range of stakeholders. Officials are continuing their assessment of the voluminous and detailed comments and suggestions put forward.\n\nOfficials provided briefing to the Committee for Infrastructure in June 2021 on the initial findings to emerge from the CfE. I have had initial discussions with my officials who aim to have a draft Review Report available by the end of this year. I shall then determine whether any recommended amendment, retention or repeal of associated provisions would (if implemented) assist in better achieving the objectives of the Act.","answerHtml":"As required by s.228(2) of the Planning Act (NI) 2011 (the Act), the regulations for the Review of the Implementation of the Act were made in October 2020, coming in to operation in November 2020. The review is being undertaken by the Department, as is required by s.228(1) of the Act.
To help inform the review, a Call for Evidence (CfE) paper issued on 15 February 2021 with contributions sought over an 8 week period ending on 16 April 2021. The CfE sought to target and engage with key stakeholders in the planning system including, councils, statutory consultees, professional bodies, and those with community, business and environmental interests, although it was also open to anyone to respond. The CfE attracted 55 responses from a wide range of stakeholders. Officials are continuing their assessment of the voluminous and detailed comments and suggestions put forward.
Officials provided briefing to the Committee for Infrastructure in June 2021 on the initial findings to emerge from the CfE. I have had initial discussions with my officials who aim to have a draft Review Report available by the end of this year. I shall then determine whether any recommended amendment, retention or repeal of associated provisions would (if implemented) assist in better achieving the objectives of the Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023380%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351941"}},{"id":"351940","reference":"AQW 23379/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-29","answerBy":"2021-10-14","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 22690/17-22, to detail any plans to develop a COVID vaccine certification scheme for Northern Irish residents who want to access domestic hospitality establishments in other parts of the UK and Ireland, where certification is required.","answerText":"A solution to provide NI Citizens with certified proof of their vaccination status to facilitate International Travel was deployed on 2 July 2021. It adheres to EU and WHO specifications for such certificates. The Covid Certification Scheme has only been registered with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office for the production of certificates to facilitate International Travel. The NI Executive has not yet established a policy on Domestic Use of Covid vaccination information.\n\nMy Department has no responsibility over entry requirements of commercial companies for access to their services.","answerHtml":"A solution to provide NI Citizens with certified proof of their vaccination status to facilitate International Travel was deployed on 2 July 2021. It adheres to EU and WHO specifications for such certificates. The Covid Certification Scheme has only been registered with the UK Information Commissioner’s Office for the production of certificates to facilitate International Travel. The NI Executive has not yet established a policy on Domestic Use of Covid vaccination information.
My Department has no responsibility over entry requirements of commercial companies for access to their services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023379%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351940"}},{"id":"351738","reference":"AQW 23286/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-28","answerBy":"2021-10-13","answered":"2021-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the amount of funding that has been distributed via the Rural Villages Renewal fund, broken down by constituency; and (ii) the projects in East Londonderry that have received funding from it.","answerText":"Through the Rural Development Programme, Local Action Groups (LAGs) provide financial support to projects that are identified by rural communities including in East Londonderry through a bottom up approach.\n\nThe amount of funding that has been distributed via the LEADER Rural Development Programme Village Renewal Scheme, broken down by constituency is attached at Annex A; and\n\nA list the projects in the East Londonderry constituency that have received funding from the Rural Development Programme Village Renewal Scheme is attached at Annex B.\n\nANNEX A\n\nBREAKDOWN OF VILLAGE RENEWAL PROJECTS BY CONSTITUENCY\n\nConstituency\tTotal Grant Awarded\tTotal Grant Paid\nBELFAST WEST\t68,457.00\t66,745.57\nEAST ANTRIM\t229,510.96\t139,814.73\nEAST LONDONDERRY\t585,340.98\t564,354.54\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t3,414,358.68\t2,852,116.66\nFOYLE\t824,579.85\t502,555.69\nLAGAN VALLEY\t621,373.35\t587,986.48\nMID ULSTER\t1,577,294.37\t1,526,286.40\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t2,141,395.82\t1,965,809.01\nNORTH ANTRIM\t2,672,102.99\t2,560,156.00\nNORTH DOWN\t574,820.04\t457,256.03\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t503,736.08\t392,957.17\nSOUTH DOWN\t1,532,682.05\t1,498,703.71\nSTRANGFORD\t2,219,451.12\t1,579,480.84\nUPPER BANN\t1,120,292.16\t902,675.79\nWEST TYRONE\t1,377,313.00\t1,104,440.67\nTotal\t19,462,708.45\t16,701,339.29\n\nANNEX B\n\nBREAKDOWN OF VILLAGE RENEWAL PROJECTS FOR EAST LONDONDERRY\n\nProject Title\tTotal Grant Awarded\tTotal Grant Paid\nCreate, Review and Refresh Village Plans 2017/18\t67,500.00\t67,500.00\nVillage Renewal in Magilligan\t59,018.00\t58,806.56\nVillage Renewal in Burnfoot\t54,237.00\t54,237.00\nVillage Renewal in Castlerock\t66,882.42\t66,882.42\nVillage Renewal Project in Dungiven\t33,439.20\t33,439.20\nVillage Renewal project in Greysteel\t17,618.86\t17,618.86\nVillage Renewal projects in Ballykelly, Foreglen, Feeny & Macosquin\t265,870.50\t265,870.50\nVillage Renewal Project in Garvagh\t20,775\t0\nTotal\t585,340.98\t564,354.54","answerHtml":"Through the Rural Development Programme, Local Action Groups (LAGs) provide financial support to projects that are identified by rural communities including in East Londonderry through a bottom up approach.
The amount of funding that has been distributed via the LEADER Rural Development Programme Village Renewal Scheme, broken down by constituency is attached at Annex A; and
A list the projects in the East Londonderry constituency that have received funding from the Rural Development Programme Village Renewal Scheme is attached at Annex B.
ANNEX A
BREAKDOWN OF VILLAGE RENEWAL PROJECTS BY CONSTITUENCY
| Constituency | Total Grant Awarded | Total Grant Paid |
| BELFAST WEST | 68,457.00 | 66,745.57 |
| EAST ANTRIM | 229,510.96 | 139,814.73 |
| EAST LONDONDERRY | 585,340.98 | 564,354.54 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 3,414,358.68 | 2,852,116.66 |
| FOYLE | 824,579.85 | 502,555.69 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 621,373.35 | 587,986.48 |
| MID ULSTER | 1,577,294.37 | 1,526,286.40 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 2,141,395.82 | 1,965,809.01 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 2,672,102.99 | 2,560,156.00 |
| NORTH DOWN | 574,820.04 | 457,256.03 |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 503,736.08 | 392,957.17 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 1,532,682.05 | 1,498,703.71 |
| STRANGFORD | 2,219,451.12 | 1,579,480.84 |
| UPPER BANN | 1,120,292.16 | 902,675.79 |
| WEST TYRONE | 1,377,313.00 | 1,104,440.67 |
| Total | 19,462,708.45 | 16,701,339.29 |
ANNEX B
BREAKDOWN OF VILLAGE RENEWAL PROJECTS FOR EAST LONDONDERRY
| Project Title | Total Grant Awarded | Total Grant Paid |
| Create, Review and Refresh Village Plans 2017/18 | 67,500.00 | 67,500.00 |
| Village Renewal in Magilligan | 59,018.00 | 58,806.56 |
| Village Renewal in Burnfoot | 54,237.00 | 54,237.00 |
| Village Renewal in Castlerock | 66,882.42 | 66,882.42 |
| Village Renewal Project in Dungiven | 33,439.20 | 33,439.20 |
| Village Renewal project in Greysteel | 17,618.86 | 17,618.86 |
| Village Renewal projects in Ballykelly, Foreglen, Feeny & Macosquin | 265,870.50 | 265,870.50 |
| Village Renewal Project in Garvagh | 20,775 | 0 |
| Total | 585,340.98 | 564,354.54 |
The Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme operates seven breast screening mobile units in the Northern, Southern, South Eastern and Western HSC Trust areas.
These seven mobile units currently offer breast screening at the following local sites:
Armagh, Ballymena, Banbridge, City Side Londonderry/Derry (Shantallow & Rathmor), Coleraine, Downpatrick, Dungannon, Enniskillen, Larne, Lisburn, Limavady, Lurgan, Magherafelt, Newcastle, Newry, Newtownards, Omagh, Strabane and Whiteabbey.
These mobile units are supported by static breast screening units at Altnagelvin Area Hospital, Antrim Area Hospital and Craigavon Area Hospital. Breast screening in the Belfast HSC Trust area is provided by the static unit in Linenhall Street in Belfast City centre.
The static and mobile units offer an accessible breast screening service to women, including women in rural areas. The PHA have confirmed that, along with the five HSC Trusts, they have established a project to support the development of a regional business case which will include consideration of the need for additional mammography equipment and breast screening mobile units.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023285%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351737","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351737"}},{"id":"351736","reference":"AQW 23284/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-28","answerBy":"2021-10-13","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the support available from his Department for private businesses, local councils and government bodies that wish to run events that stipulate customers must have been fully vaccinated or are able to prove their negative COVID status by way of a PCR or lateral flow test.","answerText":"I am on record as having requesting colleagues on the Executive to frame policy in relation to the domestic use of COVID vaccination certification since April 2021.\n\nProvision of support for the voluntary application of entry restrictions to public or private venues and events is outwith the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"I am on record as having requesting colleagues on the Executive to frame policy in relation to the domestic use of COVID vaccination certification since April 2021.
Provision of support for the voluntary application of entry restrictions to public or private venues and events is outwith the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023284%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351736","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351736"}},{"id":"351735","reference":"AQW 23283/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-28","answerBy":"2021-10-13","answered":"2021-10-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of children living in poverty in each constituency, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) annually release experimental statistics for “Children in low income families: local area statistics”. The number of children in each parliamentary constituency estimated to be living in poverty are presented in the tables below.\n\nTable 1: Estimated Number of Children (aged under 16) living in Relative poverty, by Parliamentary Constituency, 2015/16 to 2019/20\n\nParliamentary Constituency\t2015/16\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20 (p)\nBelfast East\t3,554\t3,452\t3,042\t3,270\t3,167\nBelfast North\t6,140\t6,204\t5,528\t5,870\t5,169\nBelfast South\t3,394\t3,295\t2,965\t3,371\t3,106\nBelfast West\t5,933\t6,017\t5,499\t5,753\t5,267\nEast Antrim\t2,974\t2,824\t2,665\t2,709\t2,746\nEast Derry\t4,690\t4,792\t4,152\t4,185\t4,129\nFermanagh and South Tyrone\t4,845\t4,738\t4,313\t4,563\t4,831\nFoyle\t6,497\t6,562\t5,921\t5,782\t5,152\nLagan Valley\t3,225\t3,260\t2,973\t3,269\t3,312\nMid Ulster\t4,581\t4,404\t4,002\t4,299\t4,661\nNewry and Armagh\t6,411\t6,325\t6,080\t6,330\t6,681\nNorth Antrim\t4,577\t4,537\t4,221\t4,474\t4,640\nNorth Down\t2,661\t2,538\t2,326\t2,457\t2,498\nSouth Antrim\t3,360\t3,461\t3,170\t3,473\t3,445\nSouth Down\t5,189\t5,157\t4,878\t5,074\t5,286\nStrangford\t3,230\t3,225\t2,921\t3,063\t3,011\nUpper Bann\t5,448\t5,467\t5,110\t5,431\t5,611\nWest Tyrone\t4,396\t4,394\t3,814\t4,088\t4,208\n\n(p) provisional\n\nTable 2: Estimated Number of Children (aged under 16) living in Absolute poverty, by Parliamentary Constituency, 2015/16 to 2019/20\n\nParliamentary Constituency\t2015/16\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20 (p)\nBelfast East\t3,241\t2,868\t2,450\t2,594\t2,525\nBelfast North\t5,584\t5,145\t4,307\t4,728\t3,955\nBelfast South\t3,146\t2,833\t2,398\t2,774\t2,549\nBelfast West\t5,318\t4,855\t4,224\t4,525\t3,927\nEast Antrim\t2,700\t2,421\t2,188\t2,198\t2,155\nEast Derry\t4,354\t4,074\t3,405\t3,452\t3,355\nFermanagh and South Tyrone\t4,514\t4,105\t3,560\t3,832\t4,047\nFoyle\t5,919\t5,496\t4,802\t4,770\t4,076\nLagan Valley\t2,950\t2,813\t2,435\t2,748\t2,693\nMid Ulster\t4,235\t3,722\t3,343\t3,666\t3,857\nNewry and Armagh\t5,919\t5,429\t5,113\t5,306\t5,534\nNorth Antrim\t4,257\t3,889\t3,395\t3,708\t3,759\nNorth Down\t2,459\t2,184\t1,875\t1,976\t1,931\nSouth Antrim\t3,042\t2,929\t2,602\t2,936\t2,824\nSouth Down\t4,812\t4,419\t3,963\t4,297\t4,350\nStrangford\t2,997\t2,743\t2,430\t2,603\t2,393\nUpper Bann\t4,981\t4,636\t4,122\t4,459\t4,521\nWest Tyrone\t4,091\t3,701\t3,158\t3,326\t3,517\n\n(p) provisional\n\nFurther information regarding the Children in Low Income Families (CILIF) statistics can be found at the link below.\n\nwww.gov.uk/government/collections/children-in-low-income-families-local-area-statistics","answerHtml":"The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) annually release experimental statistics for “Children in low income families: local area statistics”. The number of children in each parliamentary constituency estimated to be living in poverty are presented in the tables below.
| Table 1: Estimated Number of Children (aged under 16) living in Relative poverty, by Parliamentary Constituency, 2015/16 to 2019/20 | |||||
| Parliamentary Constituency | 2015/16 | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 (p) |
| Belfast East | 3,554 | 3,452 | 3,042 | 3,270 | 3,167 |
| Belfast North | 6,140 | 6,204 | 5,528 | 5,870 | 5,169 |
| Belfast South | 3,394 | 3,295 | 2,965 | 3,371 | 3,106 |
| Belfast West | 5,933 | 6,017 | 5,499 | 5,753 | 5,267 |
| East Antrim | 2,974 | 2,824 | 2,665 | 2,709 | 2,746 |
| East Derry | 4,690 | 4,792 | 4,152 | 4,185 | 4,129 |
| Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 4,845 | 4,738 | 4,313 | 4,563 | 4,831 |
| Foyle | 6,497 | 6,562 | 5,921 | 5,782 | 5,152 |
| Lagan Valley | 3,225 | 3,260 | 2,973 | 3,269 | 3,312 |
| Mid Ulster | 4,581 | 4,404 | 4,002 | 4,299 | 4,661 |
| Newry and Armagh | 6,411 | 6,325 | 6,080 | 6,330 | 6,681 |
| North Antrim | 4,577 | 4,537 | 4,221 | 4,474 | 4,640 |
| North Down | 2,661 | 2,538 | 2,326 | 2,457 | 2,498 |
| South Antrim | 3,360 | 3,461 | 3,170 | 3,473 | 3,445 |
| South Down | 5,189 | 5,157 | 4,878 | 5,074 | 5,286 |
| Strangford | 3,230 | 3,225 | 2,921 | 3,063 | 3,011 |
| Upper Bann | 5,448 | 5,467 | 5,110 | 5,431 | 5,611 |
| West Tyrone | 4,396 | 4,394 | 3,814 | 4,088 | 4,208 |
(p) provisional
| Table 2: Estimated Number of Children (aged under 16) living in Absolute poverty, by Parliamentary Constituency, 2015/16 to 2019/20 | |||||
| Parliamentary Constituency | 2015/16 | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 (p) |
| Belfast East | 3,241 | 2,868 | 2,450 | 2,594 | 2,525 |
| Belfast North | 5,584 | 5,145 | 4,307 | 4,728 | 3,955 |
| Belfast South | 3,146 | 2,833 | 2,398 | 2,774 | 2,549 |
| Belfast West | 5,318 | 4,855 | 4,224 | 4,525 | 3,927 |
| East Antrim | 2,700 | 2,421 | 2,188 | 2,198 | 2,155 |
| East Derry | 4,354 | 4,074 | 3,405 | 3,452 | 3,355 |
| Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 4,514 | 4,105 | 3,560 | 3,832 | 4,047 |
| Foyle | 5,919 | 5,496 | 4,802 | 4,770 | 4,076 |
| Lagan Valley | 2,950 | 2,813 | 2,435 | 2,748 | 2,693 |
| Mid Ulster | 4,235 | 3,722 | 3,343 | 3,666 | 3,857 |
| Newry and Armagh | 5,919 | 5,429 | 5,113 | 5,306 | 5,534 |
| North Antrim | 4,257 | 3,889 | 3,395 | 3,708 | 3,759 |
| North Down | 2,459 | 2,184 | 1,875 | 1,976 | 1,931 |
| South Antrim | 3,042 | 2,929 | 2,602 | 2,936 | 2,824 |
| South Down | 4,812 | 4,419 | 3,963 | 4,297 | 4,350 |
| Strangford | 2,997 | 2,743 | 2,430 | 2,603 | 2,393 |
| Upper Bann | 4,981 | 4,636 | 4,122 | 4,459 | 4,521 |
| West Tyrone | 4,091 | 3,701 | 3,158 | 3,326 | 3,517 |
(p) provisional
Further information regarding the Children in Low Income Families (CILIF) statistics can be found at the link below.
www.gov.uk/government/collections/children-in-low-income-families-local-area-statistics
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023283%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351735","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351735"}},{"id":"351734","reference":"AQW 23282/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-28","answerBy":"2021-10-13","answered":"2021-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus in Coleraine; and (ii) what steps he is taking to maximise the potential of the resource.","answerText":"HM Treasury has responsibility for designating Enterprise Zones (EZs) and the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus (ALEC) in Coleraine is the only designated Enterprise Zone (EZ) in NI. My Department’s role is to ensure that the designated area is developed by Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (CC&GBC) in a way which is consistent with the application for designation and criteria, namely, that the EZ has a clear aim of attracting capital intensive companies.\n\nThe ALEC currently has one anchor tenant, Prescient Data (formerly known as 5NINES) and there are 12 acres remaining on site. CC&GBC is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the designated area for the ALEC.\n\nInvest NI has assisted with promotional events to potential investors at the British Embassy in Dublin and the Guildhall in London. The International Investment Division are fully aware of the potential benefits of the ALEC. The entire International team (consisting of c.100 staff) have visited the Campus and continue to facilitate introductions to relevant events, conferences, and contacts in GB, RoI, and the US. Invest NI also promote the Campus on the property section of its website.\n\nOn 2 September 2021, I met with a representative from CC&GBC, to discuss ways in which my Department can support the actions they have planned to attract new tenants. Officials from my Department will continue to engage with CC&GBC on this work.","answerHtml":"HM Treasury has responsibility for designating Enterprise Zones (EZs) and the Atlantic Link Enterprise Campus (ALEC) in Coleraine is the only designated Enterprise Zone (EZ) in NI. My Department’s role is to ensure that the designated area is developed by Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council (CC&GBC) in a way which is consistent with the application for designation and criteria, namely, that the EZ has a clear aim of attracting capital intensive companies.
The ALEC currently has one anchor tenant, Prescient Data (formerly known as 5NINES) and there are 12 acres remaining on site. CC&GBC is responsible for the ongoing promotion and marketing of the designated area for the ALEC.
Invest NI has assisted with promotional events to potential investors at the British Embassy in Dublin and the Guildhall in London. The International Investment Division are fully aware of the potential benefits of the ALEC. The entire International team (consisting of c.100 staff) have visited the Campus and continue to facilitate introductions to relevant events, conferences, and contacts in GB, RoI, and the US. Invest NI also promote the Campus on the property section of its website.
On 2 September 2021, I met with a representative from CC&GBC, to discuss ways in which my Department can support the actions they have planned to attract new tenants. Officials from my Department will continue to engage with CC&GBC on this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023282%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351734"}},{"id":"351488","reference":"AQW 23184/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-27","answerBy":"2021-10-12","answered":"2021-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the current demand and supply of housing; and (ii) to detail the initiatives she is considering in order to ease the current housing pressure and increase the number of available properties.","answerText":"(I) I am acutely aware of the demands on our housing system. That is why we have commenced the most ambitious and radical shake up of housing\n\nIn relation to assessing housing need, the Housing Executive has recently completed the first phase of research to develop a suite of Strategic Housing Market Analyses (SHMAs). These analyses, which follow best practice in Scotland and Wales, will replace the existing Net Stock Model approach and, along with the Department for Infrastructure’s Housing Growth Indicators, will provide an evidence base for the Local Development Plans (LDPs) that are being developed by each of the District Councils. The evidence will be used within LDPs to determine housing policy and the allocation of housing land for different tenures within a council area for the next 15 years.\n\nThe research is due to be completed in mid-2022, with further outputs comprising the Strategic Housing Market Analyses for all the remaining housing market areas, along with a separate report providing projected annualised new dwelling requirements by tenure, until 2035.\n\n(ii) I have taken immediate steps to increase the supply of social and intermediate affordable housing. These include:\n\nSecuring a budget of £162m for the Social Housing Development Programme in 2021/22 (£26m more than in 20/21) and\n\naffordable shared ownership homes over the period 20/21 to 23/24, including £13m secured to assist those impacted by lenders withdrawing high Loan to Value (LTV) mortgage products from the market during the pandemic.","answerHtml":"(I) I am acutely aware of the demands on our housing system. That is why we have commenced the most ambitious and radical shake up of housing
In relation to assessing housing need, the Housing Executive has recently completed the first phase of research to develop a suite of Strategic Housing Market Analyses (SHMAs). These analyses, which follow best practice in Scotland and Wales, will replace the existing Net Stock Model approach and, along with the Department for Infrastructure’s Housing Growth Indicators, will provide an evidence base for the Local Development Plans (LDPs) that are being developed by each of the District Councils. The evidence will be used within LDPs to determine housing policy and the allocation of housing land for different tenures within a council area for the next 15 years.
The research is due to be completed in mid-2022, with further outputs comprising the Strategic Housing Market Analyses for all the remaining housing market areas, along with a separate report providing projected annualised new dwelling requirements by tenure, until 2035.
(ii) I have taken immediate steps to increase the supply of social and intermediate affordable housing. These include:
Securing a budget of £162m for the Social Housing Development Programme in 2021/22 (£26m more than in 20/21) and
affordable shared ownership homes over the period 20/21 to 23/24, including £13m secured to assist those impacted by lenders withdrawing high Loan to Value (LTV) mortgage products from the market during the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023184%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351488"}},{"id":"351487","reference":"AQW 23183/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-27","answerBy":"2021-10-12","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether those under 18 years old will receive only one COVID vaccination dose; (ii) the reasons for this position; and (iii) whether those only offered one vaccination will qualify as being fully vaccinated on the COVID Cert for travel and any potential vaccination passport.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to my reply to AQW 23514/17-22.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to my reply to AQW 23514/17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023183%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351487"}},{"id":"351486","reference":"AQW 23182/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-27","answerBy":"2021-10-12","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the support provided by his Department to farmers seeking to diversify their businesses.","answerText":"There are two types of farm diversification for which my Department has brought forward investment support:\n\nDiversification into a different farming activity\n\nDiversification into a non-farming activity\n\nDiversification into a different farming activity\n\nTo date, my Department has offered £43million in grant support under the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital, with at least £4.4m offered under Tier 2 of the scheme to farmers diversifying into a different farming activity. Tier 2 is designed to support larger investments that will enable transformational change in farm businesses across all sectors, which may include diversification into a different farming activity, through projects costing over £30,000 (subject to an overall grant limit of £250,000).\n\nFollowing the strong response to the Expression of Interest stage for the second tranche of FBIS Capital Tier 2, invitations to information sessions will issue shortly to eligible applicants, ahead of the scheme opening later in October.\n\nMy Department is also developing an investment measure as part of the overall package within the Future Agricultural Policy Framework for Northern Ireland to help drive innovation, productivity and better environmental outcomes.\n\nDiversification into a non-farming activity\n\nThe LEADER priority (six) of the NIRDP made investment support available under the Rural Business Investment scheme to assist all rural businesses, including farms, to diversify into a non-farming activity. This scheme is delivered by Local Action Groups (LAGs) across the council areas in Northern Ireland. All LAGs fully allocated their funding in order to deliver projects by 2020.\n\nThe public consultation of the new Rural Policy Framework which identifies strategic priorities in rural areas going forward has just closed. The Framework prioritises where funding should be invested in the future to target the greatest need. Once the Framework has been approved, my officials will start to draft the new Rural Business and Community Investment Programme. However, at this stage it is too early to say what interventions will be funded as part of this new programme.","answerHtml":"There are two types of farm diversification for which my Department has brought forward investment support:
Diversification into a different farming activity
Diversification into a non-farming activity
Diversification into a different farming activity
To date, my Department has offered £43million in grant support under the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital, with at least £4.4m offered under Tier 2 of the scheme to farmers diversifying into a different farming activity. Tier 2 is designed to support larger investments that will enable transformational change in farm businesses across all sectors, which may include diversification into a different farming activity, through projects costing over £30,000 (subject to an overall grant limit of £250,000).
Following the strong response to the Expression of Interest stage for the second tranche of FBIS Capital Tier 2, invitations to information sessions will issue shortly to eligible applicants, ahead of the scheme opening later in October.
My Department is also developing an investment measure as part of the overall package within the Future Agricultural Policy Framework for Northern Ireland to help drive innovation, productivity and better environmental outcomes.
Diversification into a non-farming activity
The LEADER priority (six) of the NIRDP made investment support available under the Rural Business Investment scheme to assist all rural businesses, including farms, to diversify into a non-farming activity. This scheme is delivered by Local Action Groups (LAGs) across the council areas in Northern Ireland. All LAGs fully allocated their funding in order to deliver projects by 2020.
The public consultation of the new Rural Policy Framework which identifies strategic priorities in rural areas going forward has just closed. The Framework prioritises where funding should be invested in the future to target the greatest need. Once the Framework has been approved, my officials will start to draft the new Rural Business and Community Investment Programme. However, at this stage it is too early to say what interventions will be funded as part of this new programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023182%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351486","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351486"}},{"id":"351485","reference":"AQW 23181/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-27","answerBy":"2021-10-12","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions he has had with members of the hospitality sector regarding the practicalities of a potential COVID-19 passport scheme for the sector.","answerText":"As Minister for the Economy, I publicly stated my concerns about the introduction of a COVID status certification scheme. From my engagement with representatives of the tourism and hospitality industries, including Hospitality Ulster and the Northern Ireland Hotel Federation, I knew that they also had concerns and I have assured them that I will continue to engage with them and represent their views to my Executive colleagues.","answerHtml":"As Minister for the Economy, I publicly stated my concerns about the introduction of a COVID status certification scheme. From my engagement with representatives of the tourism and hospitality industries, including Hospitality Ulster and the Northern Ireland Hotel Federation, I knew that they also had concerns and I have assured them that I will continue to engage with them and represent their views to my Executive colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023181%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351485"}},{"id":"351484","reference":"AQW 23180/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-27","answerBy":"2021-10-12","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the number of (i) domestic; and (ii) commercial customers that have signed up for Fibrus internet contracts, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The number of domestic and commercial customers that have signed up for Fibrus internet contracts is regarded as commercially sensitive and, under the terms of the State aid compliant contract, the Department is not in a position to disclose this. The release of such information could be detrimental to the company's business interests by giving commercial advantage to competitors and creating unintended expectations. I can, however, confirm that Fibrus Networks report that the number of premises passed, up to September 2021, by constituency, is set out in the table below. This means that citizens in these premises are in a position to order a service, should they wish to do so.\n\nConstituency\tPremises Passed\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t623\nMID ULSTER\t1353\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t4\nNORTH ANTRIM\t1234\nSOUTH DOWN\t2330\nSTRANGFORD\t400\nTotal\t5944","answerHtml":"The number of domestic and commercial customers that have signed up for Fibrus internet contracts is regarded as commercially sensitive and, under the terms of the State aid compliant contract, the Department is not in a position to disclose this. The release of such information could be detrimental to the company's business interests by giving commercial advantage to competitors and creating unintended expectations. I can, however, confirm that Fibrus Networks report that the number of premises passed, up to September 2021, by constituency, is set out in the table below. This means that citizens in these premises are in a position to order a service, should they wish to do so.
| Constituency | Premises Passed |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 623 |
| MID ULSTER | 1353 |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 4 |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 1234 |
| SOUTH DOWN | 2330 |
| STRANGFORD | 400 |
| Total | 5944 |
I recognise that this has been a difficult and worrying time for many people in our community and particularly for those who have an underlying medical condition which means they may be more vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19.
Current advice for those who were identified as Clinically Extremely Vulnerable (CEV), is to continue to work from home where this is possible. If this is not possible, they can attend their workplace provided their employer has proper measures in place to ensure social distancing. My Department has no plans to change this current advice but will keep it under review. I would encourage people to engage with their employers to discuss any concerns regarding safety in the workplace however, should further information be required or there are concerns regarding social distancing in workplaces further information can be obtained at: Health and Safety Executive.
I would encourage those who are eligible to do so to come forward for vaccination as well as for the booster since this offers the best available protection against COVID-19. The details on getting first and second vaccinations or booster are available here.
Get a COVID-19 vaccination in Northern Ireland | nidirect
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023113%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351318"}},{"id":"351317","reference":"AQW 23112/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2022-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the financial support available for (i) musicians and artists who remain unable to work full time; (ii) entertainment venues that remain unable to operate at full capacity as a result of COVID-19 restrictions; and for his assessment of current COVID-19 regulations on the entertainment industry.","answerText":"Responsibility for policy considerations and related issues impacting upon the entertainment sector resides with the Department for the Communities and as such I am not in a position to provide the information sought.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for policy considerations and related issues impacting upon the entertainment sector resides with the Department for the Communities and as such I am not in a position to provide the information sought.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023112%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351317","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351317"}},{"id":"351316","reference":"AQW 23111/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any consultations and conversations he has had with independent businesses in Northern Ireland about how to best maximise their benefit from the High Street Stimulus scheme.","answerText":"The High Street Voucher Scheme (HSS) is aimed at proving a financial boost to support local businesses impacted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nI have had numerous conversations with and visited both independent businesses and larger outlets, across Northern Ireland, over the past number of weeks including the retail, hospitality and service sectors to promote the Scheme. I have met with various organisations to ensure their understanding of the scheme and to incentivise sales into local businesses.\n\nI am encouraged by the level of engagement from our retail, hospitality and service sectors where many local businesses across all parts of Northern Ireland have also further incentivised spending in their premises by offering additional savings or rewards. By helping themselves in that way, businesses are also helping their staff, suppliers and neighbouring businesses.\n\nThe Spend Local Prepaid cards are geographically restricted to spend in Northern Ireland. Merchants have been advised, through a set of FAQs on the NIbusinessinfo website, to set up as a Northern Ireland merchant to accept the card.","answerHtml":"The High Street Voucher Scheme (HSS) is aimed at proving a financial boost to support local businesses impacted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
I have had numerous conversations with and visited both independent businesses and larger outlets, across Northern Ireland, over the past number of weeks including the retail, hospitality and service sectors to promote the Scheme. I have met with various organisations to ensure their understanding of the scheme and to incentivise sales into local businesses.
I am encouraged by the level of engagement from our retail, hospitality and service sectors where many local businesses across all parts of Northern Ireland have also further incentivised spending in their premises by offering additional savings or rewards. By helping themselves in that way, businesses are also helping their staff, suppliers and neighbouring businesses.
The Spend Local Prepaid cards are geographically restricted to spend in Northern Ireland. Merchants have been advised, through a set of FAQs on the NIbusinessinfo website, to set up as a Northern Ireland merchant to accept the card.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023111%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351316"}},{"id":"351315","reference":"AQW 23110/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the development of a consistent approach to, and framework for, Relationship and Sexuality Education across all schools.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is covered within the statutory Northern Ireland curriculum under the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (primary) and the Learning for Life and Work (post-primary) Areas of Learning. This provides a standardised statutory minimum entitlement, which all children must legally receive.\n\nAs with all Areas of Learning, Boards of Governors of each school are responsible for ensuring that a comprehensive and age appropriate programme is taught, the standardised minimum content is covered.\n\nBeyond the statutory minimum content, schools and teachers have the flexibility to decide the topics and approaches that best suit their pupils. The mandatory content is supplemented by a wide range of guidance and resources which have been produced by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations (CCEA) and Assessment and are available on its RSE Hub. CCEA is currently developing a Curricular Progression Framework which will clearly set out key issues to be considered at each Key Stage.\n\nI have also asked my officials to work closely with key stakeholders to develop further guidance on the delivery of RSE and in particular the important issues raised by the Gillen Review","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is covered within the statutory Northern Ireland curriculum under the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (primary) and the Learning for Life and Work (post-primary) Areas of Learning. This provides a standardised statutory minimum entitlement, which all children must legally receive.
As with all Areas of Learning, Boards of Governors of each school are responsible for ensuring that a comprehensive and age appropriate programme is taught, the standardised minimum content is covered.
Beyond the statutory minimum content, schools and teachers have the flexibility to decide the topics and approaches that best suit their pupils. The mandatory content is supplemented by a wide range of guidance and resources which have been produced by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations (CCEA) and Assessment and are available on its RSE Hub. CCEA is currently developing a Curricular Progression Framework which will clearly set out key issues to be considered at each Key Stage.
I have also asked my officials to work closely with key stakeholders to develop further guidance on the delivery of RSE and in particular the important issues raised by the Gillen Review
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023110%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351315","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351315"}},{"id":"351314","reference":"AQW 23109/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-24","answerBy":"2021-10-11","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the impact of the booking system at council recycling centres on levels of illegal dumping.","answerText":"The booking systems currently in operation at Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC’s) were introduced and are managed by the various councils across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe purpose of these booking systems is to enable social distancing at HWRC’s whilst assisting members of the public to safely deposit waste and recyclables. The systems also assist in the avoidance of traffic build-up at or near these sites and enables staff to monitor waste being deposited and therefore helps maximise recycling.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is unable draw any direct correlation between the councils booking system and levels of illegal dumping.\n\nIllegal waste activity can be influenced by a number of factors which cannot be looked at in isolation. Current trends would indicate that the volume and types of illegal waste disposal incidents being reported to the NIEA appear to be on a par with pre-COVID levels before the booking systems were introduced.","answerHtml":"The booking systems currently in operation at Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRC’s) were introduced and are managed by the various councils across Northern Ireland.
The purpose of these booking systems is to enable social distancing at HWRC’s whilst assisting members of the public to safely deposit waste and recyclables. The systems also assist in the avoidance of traffic build-up at or near these sites and enables staff to monitor waste being deposited and therefore helps maximise recycling.
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is unable draw any direct correlation between the councils booking system and levels of illegal dumping.
Illegal waste activity can be influenced by a number of factors which cannot be looked at in isolation. Current trends would indicate that the volume and types of illegal waste disposal incidents being reported to the NIEA appear to be on a par with pre-COVID levels before the booking systems were introduced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023109%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351314"}},{"id":"351090","reference":"AQW 23040/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any conversations he has had with property developers, both in Northern Ireland and elsewhere, regarding (i) increasing housing provision in Northern Ireland; and (ii) how current planning laws are impacting on developers’ decisions whether to create new developments locally.","answerText":"None, as these are not areas for responsibility for my Department.","answerHtml":"None, as these are not areas for responsibility for my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023040%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351090","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351090"}},{"id":"351089","reference":"AQW 23039/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of schools, per constituency, that have experienced food supply problems this term; and (ii) any action her Department has taken to resolve such issues.","answerText":"Education Authority (EA) Catering delivers school meals to over 1,150 schools per day across all 18 constituency areas. The Education Authority (EA) has reported there have been issues around delivery of some items during September 2021 to the majority of school meals kitchens. This was due to one of its main suppliers making a business decision not to continue trading with EA Catering from 31 August 2021. EA Catering in partnership with Procurement had to award over 400 product lines between 2 other suppliers. Alternative products have been sourced and supplied to schools. Deliveries are returning to normal and the supply chain and ordering of products has stabilised. The issues faced in September 2021 are now easing as all products supplied by the exiting supplier have been reallocated, sourced and are being delivered as ordered into kitchens.\n\nThe Senior Catering Managers and the procurement team hold meetings with the two main food suppliers on a weekly basis to allow the suppliers to update Catering on any known upcoming issues within their supply chains and any current issues Catering are already aware of.\n\nSuppliers will also make contact with Catering and Procurement Teams in between times if a new issue arises and if they have been able to provide substitute items for any products where supply issues have been identified.","answerHtml":"Education Authority (EA) Catering delivers school meals to over 1,150 schools per day across all 18 constituency areas. The Education Authority (EA) has reported there have been issues around delivery of some items during September 2021 to the majority of school meals kitchens. This was due to one of its main suppliers making a business decision not to continue trading with EA Catering from 31 August 2021. EA Catering in partnership with Procurement had to award over 400 product lines between 2 other suppliers. Alternative products have been sourced and supplied to schools. Deliveries are returning to normal and the supply chain and ordering of products has stabilised. The issues faced in September 2021 are now easing as all products supplied by the exiting supplier have been reallocated, sourced and are being delivered as ordered into kitchens.
The Senior Catering Managers and the procurement team hold meetings with the two main food suppliers on a weekly basis to allow the suppliers to update Catering on any known upcoming issues within their supply chains and any current issues Catering are already aware of.
Suppliers will also make contact with Catering and Procurement Teams in between times if a new issue arises and if they have been able to provide substitute items for any products where supply issues have been identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023039%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351089","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351089"}},{"id":"351088","reference":"AQW 23038/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the current impact of labour shortages on agriculture and food processing; and (ii) to detail any steps he is taking, including conversations he has had with Executive colleagues, to resolve this issue.","answerText":"Currently the labour shortages are being felt most acutely by the pigmeat industry. Information reported to me by the industry suggests that there are staffing shortages of up to 35% for certain processing-critical occupations. The pig sector is reporting serious difficulties with processing capacity, resulting in a rollover of pigs on farms each week in sub-optimal conditions. My officials are in contact with producers on a regular basis and the number of pigs that are back logged varies by farm and outlet. Officials are assessing the impact of this on the animals and the producers.\n\nOver the past few months, I have been engaging extensively with agri-food stakeholders about concerns regarding labour shortages. Despite employers offering competitive wages and other incentives, they have struggled to recruit all the workers they need, because insufficient appeptite exists among our domestic workforce for these types of jobs.\n\nFor a significant period of time we have relied on migrant workers to fill the labour gap in the agri-food sector. Stakeholders however, have indicated that the new UK Immigration System has removed a previously existing route to fill vacancies.\n\nAs immigration policy is a reserved matter, my primary focus has been ongoing communication with top levels of Government in Whitehall to highlight the severity of the problems. I have ensured that my Executive colleagues have had sight of this correspondence given the potential repercussions for the NI Economy if a solution cannot be found as a matter of urgency. We have seen some movement in the recent announcement on additional temporary visas for HGV drivers and poultry workers but it not enough and I will keep pressing for more.","answerHtml":"Currently the labour shortages are being felt most acutely by the pigmeat industry. Information reported to me by the industry suggests that there are staffing shortages of up to 35% for certain processing-critical occupations. The pig sector is reporting serious difficulties with processing capacity, resulting in a rollover of pigs on farms each week in sub-optimal conditions. My officials are in contact with producers on a regular basis and the number of pigs that are back logged varies by farm and outlet. Officials are assessing the impact of this on the animals and the producers.
Over the past few months, I have been engaging extensively with agri-food stakeholders about concerns regarding labour shortages. Despite employers offering competitive wages and other incentives, they have struggled to recruit all the workers they need, because insufficient appeptite exists among our domestic workforce for these types of jobs.
For a significant period of time we have relied on migrant workers to fill the labour gap in the agri-food sector. Stakeholders however, have indicated that the new UK Immigration System has removed a previously existing route to fill vacancies.
As immigration policy is a reserved matter, my primary focus has been ongoing communication with top levels of Government in Whitehall to highlight the severity of the problems. I have ensured that my Executive colleagues have had sight of this correspondence given the potential repercussions for the NI Economy if a solution cannot be found as a matter of urgency. We have seen some movement in the recent announcement on additional temporary visas for HGV drivers and poultry workers but it not enough and I will keep pressing for more.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023038%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351088","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351088"}},{"id":"351087","reference":"AQW 23037/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure pursuant to AQW 21866/17-22, to detail any publicity her Department has used to highlight the grants schemes available for individuals and local councils to install private and on-street electric vehicle charge points.","answerText":"Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). OZEV has been providing a range of grant schemes for a number of years across GB-NI and it is responsible for any associated publicity in respect of its grant schemes.\n\nThe British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI for 2021/22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking through the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). The Department has been engaging with OZEV and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the ORCS, with reference to councils in the North. Following discussions between my Department and OZEV in respect of ORCS, the EST held a workshop last year with our local councils about the scheme and indicated that it was prepared to hold further events to support councils in the North interested in applying to the ORCS scheme.\n\nMy Department is also currently represented on an ORCS Council Consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding which is being led by Derry City and Strabane District Council. My officials recently met with OZEV in respect of ORCS and it confirmed that it is very keen to see individual or collective applications from councils in the North. OZEV also advised that EST has recently acquired an extra resource, which if required, could assist our local councils by providing advice and guidance on the ORCS application process.\n\nI can also confirm that following this meeting, my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and steps are now being taken to arrange a meeting at the earliest opportunity with OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department.\n\nI would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.\n\nI would reaffirm that my Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will also include consideration of a range of EV related matters including consideration of appropriate publicity.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). OZEV has been providing a range of grant schemes for a number of years across GB-NI and it is responsible for any associated publicity in respect of its grant schemes.
The British Government has made £20 million in grant funding available to local authorities/councils in GB-NI for 2021/22 to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking through the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). The Department has been engaging with OZEV and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the ORCS, with reference to councils in the North. Following discussions between my Department and OZEV in respect of ORCS, the EST held a workshop last year with our local councils about the scheme and indicated that it was prepared to hold further events to support councils in the North interested in applying to the ORCS scheme.
My Department is also currently represented on an ORCS Council Consortium set up to look at applying for ORCS funding which is being led by Derry City and Strabane District Council. My officials recently met with OZEV in respect of ORCS and it confirmed that it is very keen to see individual or collective applications from councils in the North. OZEV also advised that EST has recently acquired an extra resource, which if required, could assist our local councils by providing advice and guidance on the ORCS application process.
I can also confirm that following this meeting, my officials have recently met with Derry City and Strabane District Council and steps are now being taken to arrange a meeting at the earliest opportunity with OZEV, EST, Derry City and Strabane District Council and my Department.
I would also re-iterate that this funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively. Officials will continue to make themselves available to local councils to provide assistance, advice and guidance in respect of electric vehicle related matters.
I would reaffirm that my Department has been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system. The out workings of the TWG will also include consideration of a range of EV related matters including consideration of appropriate publicity.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023037%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351087","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351087"}},{"id":"351086","reference":"AQW 23036/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-23","answerBy":"2021-10-08","answered":"2021-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for her assessment of the need and potential for a residents-only parking scheme to be introduced in areas of East Londonderry.","answerText":"The first residents’ parking scheme in Rugby Road / College Park Avenue, Belfast, came into operation during April 2018. A review of the scheme, which will reflect the needs, experiences and feedback of residents, has recently been completed. I am currently working with my officials to make sure that any lessons learnt from this scheme, and the other potential schemes that did not make it to implementation inform wider policy on implementation of residents’ parking schemes to the benefit of communities.\n\nI can confirm that any findings will be made publically available and I will consider any new schemes in light of these findings.","answerHtml":"The first residents’ parking scheme in Rugby Road / College Park Avenue, Belfast, came into operation during April 2018. A review of the scheme, which will reflect the needs, experiences and feedback of residents, has recently been completed. I am currently working with my officials to make sure that any lessons learnt from this scheme, and the other potential schemes that did not make it to implementation inform wider policy on implementation of residents’ parking schemes to the benefit of communities.
I can confirm that any findings will be made publically available and I will consider any new schemes in light of these findings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2023036%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=351086","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=351086"}},{"id":"350931","reference":"AQW 22952/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any consideration he has given to creating a hotels strategy, particularly with regard to the 2025 Open golf championship due to be held in Portrush.","answerText":"My officials are currently working in partnership with Tourism NI to develop a Strategic Framework for Tourism in Northern Ireland. This is at a very early stage, however I expect there will be focus on creating a thriving tourism ecosystem that enriches Northern Ireland, its people and its guests.\n\nThe decision to bring The Open Championship back to Royal Portrush is an example of our reputation for being able to stage world-class events. It is important that we maximise the benefits of such opportunities and, as we develop the Strategic Framework, I look forward to hearing stakeholders’ views on how we can best deliver high quality, memorable and authentic experiences that bring tangible benefits to local businesses and communities.\n\nIn terms of the 2025 Open specifically, the collective ambition of the R&A, Royal Portrush Golf Club, the NI Executive, Tourism NI and key delivery partners, such as the Causeway Coast and Glens Council, is to make the 153rd Open Championship even better than the 148th.\n\nTourism NI will continue to develop and support new and existing experiences along the North Coast which will help to support the overall tourism offer in the led up to the event in the next four years and during event week itself.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently working in partnership with Tourism NI to develop a Strategic Framework for Tourism in Northern Ireland. This is at a very early stage, however I expect there will be focus on creating a thriving tourism ecosystem that enriches Northern Ireland, its people and its guests.
The decision to bring The Open Championship back to Royal Portrush is an example of our reputation for being able to stage world-class events. It is important that we maximise the benefits of such opportunities and, as we develop the Strategic Framework, I look forward to hearing stakeholders’ views on how we can best deliver high quality, memorable and authentic experiences that bring tangible benefits to local businesses and communities.
In terms of the 2025 Open specifically, the collective ambition of the R&A, Royal Portrush Golf Club, the NI Executive, Tourism NI and key delivery partners, such as the Causeway Coast and Glens Council, is to make the 153rd Open Championship even better than the 148th.
Tourism NI will continue to develop and support new and existing experiences along the North Coast which will help to support the overall tourism offer in the led up to the event in the next four years and during event week itself.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022952%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350931"}},{"id":"350930","reference":"AQW 22951/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the potential development of golf tourism in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail any plans he has to develop a golf tourism strategy.","answerText":"i) Over the period 2013 – 2019, golf tourism revenue grew from £27m to £52m, demonstrating a 93% increase in economic impact for the Northern Ireland economy.\n\nFor every £1 spent on green fees in Northern Ireland, a minimum of £4 is spent elsewhere in the economy.\n\nWhilst the effects of Covid 19 and the ensuing international travel restrictions have had a profound impact on tourism worldwide, Northern Ireland golf tourism continues to have significant potential for future development.\n\nIndependent research commissioned by Tourism NI indicates that the top three reasons for international visitors choosing a golf break in Northern Ireland in 2019 were the quality of the courses, hosting The 148th Open and awareness of Northern Ireland’s Major champions.\n\nWith the announcement of the return of The Open in 2025, despite the huge challenge in rebuilding post Covid 19, these key motivators for travel remain in place.\n\nIn both Royal Portrush and Royal County Down we have links courses of world renown, complimented by a range of links and parkland courses across Northern Ireland. Our golfing visitors also wish to enjoy a range of visitor attractions and again the research indicates that their feedback is excellent, with 97% of our key American visitors rating their golf break to Northern Ireland as excellent.\n\nGolf Events are a major revenue driver to the economy and present an opportunity to maximise global media exposure. The hosting of The 148th Open, Royal Portrush, was a watershed moment for Northern Ireland that delivered a combined economic benefit in excess of £106m. With the return of The Open to Northern Ireland in 2025, and a wider programme of golfing events, we will once again show the world why Northern Ireland is “Made for Golf”.\n\nTourism NI and Tourism Ireland will continue to capitalise on this potential through a programme of trade and consumer sales & marketing activities in core golf markets across the world.\n\nii) There was a comprehensive Strategic Review of Golf Tourism in Northern Ireland carried out for 2015-2020. Tourism NI, commissioned research to inform a golf tourism review for the period 2020 – 2025 on behalf of an independent golf advisory group, made up of key golf industry and stakeholders. Due to Covid 19, the publication of the updated market review has been delayed allowing additional international research to be conducted by Tourism Ireland into the post Covid-19 landscape. The final report is planned for publication within the next 6 months.","answerHtml":"i) Over the period 2013 – 2019, golf tourism revenue grew from £27m to £52m, demonstrating a 93% increase in economic impact for the Northern Ireland economy.
For every £1 spent on green fees in Northern Ireland, a minimum of £4 is spent elsewhere in the economy.
Whilst the effects of Covid 19 and the ensuing international travel restrictions have had a profound impact on tourism worldwide, Northern Ireland golf tourism continues to have significant potential for future development.
Independent research commissioned by Tourism NI indicates that the top three reasons for international visitors choosing a golf break in Northern Ireland in 2019 were the quality of the courses, hosting The 148th Open and awareness of Northern Ireland’s Major champions.
With the announcement of the return of The Open in 2025, despite the huge challenge in rebuilding post Covid 19, these key motivators for travel remain in place.
In both Royal Portrush and Royal County Down we have links courses of world renown, complimented by a range of links and parkland courses across Northern Ireland. Our golfing visitors also wish to enjoy a range of visitor attractions and again the research indicates that their feedback is excellent, with 97% of our key American visitors rating their golf break to Northern Ireland as excellent.
Golf Events are a major revenue driver to the economy and present an opportunity to maximise global media exposure. The hosting of The 148th Open, Royal Portrush, was a watershed moment for Northern Ireland that delivered a combined economic benefit in excess of £106m. With the return of The Open to Northern Ireland in 2025, and a wider programme of golfing events, we will once again show the world why Northern Ireland is “Made for Golf”.
Tourism NI and Tourism Ireland will continue to capitalise on this potential through a programme of trade and consumer sales & marketing activities in core golf markets across the world.
ii) There was a comprehensive Strategic Review of Golf Tourism in Northern Ireland carried out for 2015-2020. Tourism NI, commissioned research to inform a golf tourism review for the period 2020 – 2025 on behalf of an independent golf advisory group, made up of key golf industry and stakeholders. Due to Covid 19, the publication of the updated market review has been delayed allowing additional international research to be conducted by Tourism Ireland into the post Covid-19 landscape. The final report is planned for publication within the next 6 months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022951%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350930","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350930"}},{"id":"350929","reference":"AQW 22950/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any considerations he has given to enabling local councils to charge second home owners differing rates levels, similarly to the Welsh local authority areas of Gwynedd and Swansea.","answerText":"While Council Tax in Britain is often regarded as being the broad equivalent of Domestic Rates here, Council Tax and Rates are two quite different systems.\n\nCouncil Tax is a form of personal taxation based on property values which evolved out of the old Community Charge, which was better known as the ‘Poll Tax’. Because of the personal taxation element to Council Tax, Councils in different parts of Britain apply discounts or multipliers for Council tax payers depending on personal factors. Ownership of a second property is one of those factors. The power to charge a levy on second homes is a discretionary power for each individual council in Wales, whereas in both England and Scotland Councils have discretion to apply a discount for second homes.\n\nBy comparison, Domestic Rates here is a pure property tax, with no element of personal taxation, which is payable in most circumstances by the occupier of the property. Second homes are charged the same rates as sole or main residences.\n\nIn 2007, as part of the Executive’s Review of domestic rating, the Executive considered applying an additional levy on second or holiday homes. However, the option was ultimately ruled out on the basis that it would be easy to evade, impossible to vet at reasonable cost and would be unlikely to make any difference to the decisions taken by the investors seeking second homes. As a result the Executive decided not to recommend any change in this area of rating policy. I have had no request from Councils to revisit this issue.","answerHtml":"While Council Tax in Britain is often regarded as being the broad equivalent of Domestic Rates here, Council Tax and Rates are two quite different systems.
Council Tax is a form of personal taxation based on property values which evolved out of the old Community Charge, which was better known as the ‘Poll Tax’. Because of the personal taxation element to Council Tax, Councils in different parts of Britain apply discounts or multipliers for Council tax payers depending on personal factors. Ownership of a second property is one of those factors. The power to charge a levy on second homes is a discretionary power for each individual council in Wales, whereas in both England and Scotland Councils have discretion to apply a discount for second homes.
By comparison, Domestic Rates here is a pure property tax, with no element of personal taxation, which is payable in most circumstances by the occupier of the property. Second homes are charged the same rates as sole or main residences.
In 2007, as part of the Executive’s Review of domestic rating, the Executive considered applying an additional levy on second or holiday homes. However, the option was ultimately ruled out on the basis that it would be easy to evade, impossible to vet at reasonable cost and would be unlikely to make any difference to the decisions taken by the investors seeking second homes. As a result the Executive decided not to recommend any change in this area of rating policy. I have had no request from Councils to revisit this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022950%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350929","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350929"}},{"id":"350928","reference":"AQW 22949/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any consideration she has given to increasing the amount available for low-income households via the Affordable Warmth Scheme.","answerText":"On 1 July 2021 legislative changes were introduced to increase income threshold eligibility to £23,000. At the same time Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment and Carers’ Allowance were removed from the calculation of income.\n\nMy Department continues to monitor the impact of the pandemic and Brexit on the Scheme, including the average grant per household.","answerHtml":"On 1 July 2021 legislative changes were introduced to increase income threshold eligibility to £23,000. At the same time Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance, Personal Independence Payment and Carers’ Allowance were removed from the calculation of income.
My Department continues to monitor the impact of the pandemic and Brexit on the Scheme, including the average grant per household.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022949%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350928","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350928"}},{"id":"350927","reference":"AQW 22948/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-22","answerBy":"2021-10-07","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on the Dilapidation Bill.","answerText":"Over the past few years my Department has engaged with stakeholders through blight summits, a discussion document, bi-lateral meetings and a formal public consultation in March 2016 on the issue of dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites.\n\nThe overwhelming majority of the respondents to the consultation expressed a preference for the development of a wide-ranging Dilapidation Bill that would consolidate and amend much of the existing Victorian legislation, and supplement it with new provisions in respect of low level dilapidation and dangerous buildings already available to local authorities in the rest of the UK.\n\nThe other key proposal was to enhance significantly the cost recovery provisions available to councils, making the option of them carrying out the relevant works themselves much more viable.\n\nThe intention of the proposed Bill is to provide all district councils with a modern, fit-for-purpose Northern Ireland-wide enforcement regime to deal with the negative impact of dilapidated / dangerous buildings and neglected sites.\n\nIt had been my intention to introduce the Bill to the Assembly in 2021 so that it completed its passage before the end of the current Assembly mandate but due to other priority work areas taking precedence, in particular work to develop Northern Ireland’s first Environment Strategy, it has not been possible to finalise the substantial economic appraisal which must be completed before the Bill can be introduced.\n\nIt is my hope that the Bill can be introduced early in the next Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"Over the past few years my Department has engaged with stakeholders through blight summits, a discussion document, bi-lateral meetings and a formal public consultation in March 2016 on the issue of dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites.
The overwhelming majority of the respondents to the consultation expressed a preference for the development of a wide-ranging Dilapidation Bill that would consolidate and amend much of the existing Victorian legislation, and supplement it with new provisions in respect of low level dilapidation and dangerous buildings already available to local authorities in the rest of the UK.
The other key proposal was to enhance significantly the cost recovery provisions available to councils, making the option of them carrying out the relevant works themselves much more viable.
The intention of the proposed Bill is to provide all district councils with a modern, fit-for-purpose Northern Ireland-wide enforcement regime to deal with the negative impact of dilapidated / dangerous buildings and neglected sites.
It had been my intention to introduce the Bill to the Assembly in 2021 so that it completed its passage before the end of the current Assembly mandate but due to other priority work areas taking precedence, in particular work to develop Northern Ireland’s first Environment Strategy, it has not been possible to finalise the substantial economic appraisal which must be completed before the Bill can be introduced.
It is my hope that the Bill can be introduced early in the next Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022948%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350927","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350927"}},{"id":"350693","reference":"AQW 22865/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-21","answerBy":"2021-10-06","answered":"2021-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of how the current planning system is affecting the expansion of the green energy industry; and (ii) to detail any conversations he has had with the Minister for Infrastructure in relation to this issue.","answerText":"The Renewable Energy Planning Database, which tracks the progress of renewable energy projects across the UK from application through to operation, shows that there are currently over 150 renewable energy projects, across a number of technologies, awaiting construction having achieved planning approval or that are currently going through the planning process in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe majority of complaints with regard to the planning regime centre on the time taken to reach a decision. I am informed that, the average processing time for all renewable energy applications brought to a decision or withdrawal during 2020/21 was 47.5 weeks and the approval rate for renewable energy applications was 88.5%, with 69 out of the 78 decisions issued during the year being approvals.\n\nMy predecessor met with Minister Mallon earlier this year to discuss the issue of planning for renewable projects. Minister Mallon is taking a number of steps to make the planning system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders. This includes the work of the Planning Forum, the ongoing review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, the Planning Engagement Partnership, work to take forward a new regional planning IT system and a review of the planning policy for renewable and low carbon technology energy.\n\nIn the interim, officials from DfE and DfI continue to engage on planning issues as part of the new Northern Ireland Energy Strategy which I am seeking to publish in the near future.","answerHtml":"The Renewable Energy Planning Database, which tracks the progress of renewable energy projects across the UK from application through to operation, shows that there are currently over 150 renewable energy projects, across a number of technologies, awaiting construction having achieved planning approval or that are currently going through the planning process in Northern Ireland.
The majority of complaints with regard to the planning regime centre on the time taken to reach a decision. I am informed that, the average processing time for all renewable energy applications brought to a decision or withdrawal during 2020/21 was 47.5 weeks and the approval rate for renewable energy applications was 88.5%, with 69 out of the 78 decisions issued during the year being approvals.
My predecessor met with Minister Mallon earlier this year to discuss the issue of planning for renewable projects. Minister Mallon is taking a number of steps to make the planning system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders. This includes the work of the Planning Forum, the ongoing review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, the Planning Engagement Partnership, work to take forward a new regional planning IT system and a review of the planning policy for renewable and low carbon technology energy.
In the interim, officials from DfE and DfI continue to engage on planning issues as part of the new Northern Ireland Energy Strategy which I am seeking to publish in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022865%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350693","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350693"}},{"id":"350692","reference":"AQW 22864/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-21","answerBy":"2021-10-06","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans she has to review planning policy to better facilitate the passage of green energy-generating developments through the planning system.","answerText":"I am fully committed to improving the planning system for all stakeholders and as a key enabler to support a green recovery following the Covid pandemic. You will be aware that I announced my decision on 21 April 2021 to review strategic planning policy for renewable & low carbon energy, which will ensure that my Department’s regional planning policy for this important subject area continues to be robust and fit for purpose.\n\nYou will also be aware that my Department has taken a number of steps to make the system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders in the North, including facilitating the passage of appropriate green energy-generating developments through the planning system. This includes the work of the Planning Forum, the ongoing review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, the Planning Engagement partnership and work to take forward a new regional planning IT system.","answerHtml":"I am fully committed to improving the planning system for all stakeholders and as a key enabler to support a green recovery following the Covid pandemic. You will be aware that I announced my decision on 21 April 2021 to review strategic planning policy for renewable & low carbon energy, which will ensure that my Department’s regional planning policy for this important subject area continues to be robust and fit for purpose.
You will also be aware that my Department has taken a number of steps to make the system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders in the North, including facilitating the passage of appropriate green energy-generating developments through the planning system. This includes the work of the Planning Forum, the ongoing review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, the Planning Engagement partnership and work to take forward a new regional planning IT system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022864%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350692","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350692"}},{"id":"350691","reference":"AQW 22863/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-21","answerBy":"2021-10-06","answered":"2021-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how she is ensuring the consistent application of planning rules across local councils.","answerText":"The two-tier planning system enables councils to interpret and apply strategic policy, as set out in the Strategic Planning Policy Statement, for their areas, through their local development plan and development management responsibilities. This has empowered local government to meet the needs and aspirations of local communities, taking account of the particular context and circumstances which they face. The interpretation, relevance and weight to be afforded to strategic planning policy is for the responsible planning authority to decide and justify; and this may result in some variations across local councils.\n\nHowever, it is also important for the integrity of the planning system that the wider regional policy objectives set by my Department are maintained across Northern Ireland. My Department has a number of powers which enable it to monitor the operation of planning matters by councils. These include powers in relation to scrutiny of council-prepared local development plans; powers to ‘call-in’ planning applications; and reserve enforcement powers, which are intended to be used in exceptional circumstances. My Department’s interest in exercising its powers is not to interfere with a council’s right and responsibility to take its own decisions, but rather to safeguard against systemic risks to the achievement of regional planning objectives.\n\nMy Department provides guidance to councils and also regularly engages with councils and other stakeholders to understand how the planning system is working and to assist with its operation. This includes engaging with councils on planning matters through the Strategic Planning Group (with Heads of Planning). Periodic Chief Planner updates are also issued to councils to ensure key messages are shared across the system.","answerHtml":"The two-tier planning system enables councils to interpret and apply strategic policy, as set out in the Strategic Planning Policy Statement, for their areas, through their local development plan and development management responsibilities. This has empowered local government to meet the needs and aspirations of local communities, taking account of the particular context and circumstances which they face. The interpretation, relevance and weight to be afforded to strategic planning policy is for the responsible planning authority to decide and justify; and this may result in some variations across local councils.
However, it is also important for the integrity of the planning system that the wider regional policy objectives set by my Department are maintained across Northern Ireland. My Department has a number of powers which enable it to monitor the operation of planning matters by councils. These include powers in relation to scrutiny of council-prepared local development plans; powers to ‘call-in’ planning applications; and reserve enforcement powers, which are intended to be used in exceptional circumstances. My Department’s interest in exercising its powers is not to interfere with a council’s right and responsibility to take its own decisions, but rather to safeguard against systemic risks to the achievement of regional planning objectives.
My Department provides guidance to councils and also regularly engages with councils and other stakeholders to understand how the planning system is working and to assist with its operation. This includes engaging with councils on planning matters through the Strategic Planning Group (with Heads of Planning). Periodic Chief Planner updates are also issued to councils to ensure key messages are shared across the system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022863%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350691","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350691"}},{"id":"350690","reference":"AQW 22862/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-21","answerBy":"2021-10-06","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure for an update on the planning review for renewable energy, including her plans for consultation with industry.","answerText":"Following my announcement on 21 April 2021 to review strategic planning policy on renewable & low carbon energy, my officials have been progressing the necessary work in line with established policy making best practice. My Department intends to undertake engagement with key stakeholders, including industry representatives, in the autumn.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement on 21 April 2021 to review strategic planning policy on renewable & low carbon energy, my officials have been progressing the necessary work in line with established policy making best practice. My Department intends to undertake engagement with key stakeholders, including industry representatives, in the autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022862%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350690","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350690"}},{"id":"350689","reference":"AQW 22861/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-21","answerBy":"2021-10-06","answered":"2021-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any considerations she has given to progressing and supporting a proposed skate park in Portrush.","answerText":"My Department has been working closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council over the last 18 months to develop plans to regenerate the Recreation Grounds at Ramore Avenue, Portrush. The regeneration scheme will include an urban plaza that will act as a public space that can also accommodate skateboarding and other urban sports. It has been designed with specialist input from the Freestyle Collective and consultation with CAUS (Causeway Association of Urban Sports).","answerHtml":"My Department has been working closely with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council over the last 18 months to develop plans to regenerate the Recreation Grounds at Ramore Avenue, Portrush. The regeneration scheme will include an urban plaza that will act as a public space that can also accommodate skateboarding and other urban sports. It has been designed with specialist input from the Freestyle Collective and consultation with CAUS (Causeway Association of Urban Sports).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350689","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350689"}},{"id":"350494","reference":"AQW 22784/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-20","answerBy":"2021-10-05","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 22191/17-22, what advice she is giving to parents of pupils who are clinically extremely vulnerable, or have relatives who are clinically extremely vulnerable, regarding attendance at schools where COVID-19 cases have been identified.","answerText":"In keeping with the current Government advice available on the NIDirect website pupils previously shielding or with a family member who was previously shielding due to being identified as ‘clinically extremely vulnerable’ can continue to go to school.\n\nRelevant attendance codes may also be used in exceptional circumstances where medical evidence is provided to support a child abstaining from school.\n\nGuidance on which absence codes to apply along with a series of “Frequently Asked Questions” was issued to schools on 23 August 2021 via DE Circular 2021/16","answerHtml":"In keeping with the current Government advice available on the NIDirect website pupils previously shielding or with a family member who was previously shielding due to being identified as ‘clinically extremely vulnerable’ can continue to go to school.
Relevant attendance codes may also be used in exceptional circumstances where medical evidence is provided to support a child abstaining from school.
Guidance on which absence codes to apply along with a series of “Frequently Asked Questions” was issued to schools on 23 August 2021 via DE Circular 2021/16
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022784%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350494"}},{"id":"350493","reference":"AQW 22783/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-20","answerBy":"2021-10-05","answered":"2021-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) what conversations he has had with the Minister for Infrastructure regarding HGV licensing changes being made in England, Scotland and Wales; and (ii) for his assessment of how adopting these changes in Northern Ireland could impact the current shortage of HGV drivers here and the resulting effects on jobs and the economy.","answerText":"Thank you for your letter dated 21 September regarding HGV licencing changes.\n\nThe issue of licensing of HGV drivers falls within the remit of the Department of Infrastructure. To date I have not had any discussions about licensing amendments made in England, Scotland and Wales.","answerHtml":"Thank you for your letter dated 21 September regarding HGV licencing changes.
The issue of licensing of HGV drivers falls within the remit of the Department of Infrastructure. To date I have not had any discussions about licensing amendments made in England, Scotland and Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022783%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350493"}},{"id":"350492","reference":"AQW 22782/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-20","answerBy":"2021-10-05","answered":"2021-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the HGV licensing changes being made in England, Scotland and Wales; and (ii) what plans she has to adopt similar changes here in order to increase driver numbers.","answerText":"I am aware, following the announcement, that GB is introducing changes to HGV driving tests to try to help the sector tackle the lorry driver shortage.\n\nTesting is not seen as a significant reason for Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driver shortages here. A recent RHA survey identifies driver’s retirements, Brexit and changes to off-payroll working rules as the three main reasons for the shortages. Here, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of LGV driving test slots. In addition to normal weekday slots they also now offer LGV driving tests on a Saturday and on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. However, uptake from the industry, particularly on Sundays, has been less than expected, given the demand for these types of tests. Overtime is also used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity.\n\nThe DVA is continuing to explore a number of options to increase the number of LGV examiners to address current demands at those test centres where LGV testing is offered. This includes identifying current examiners with relevant licences to be trained to conduct LGV Tests.\n\nThe DVA also engages with various LGV driver training schools in relation to test appointments. Test Centre Managers frequently liaise directly with the training schools to meet specific requirements and help address demands. Standing appointments for LGV driver training schools, which were previously suspended due to Covid 19 restrictions, have now been reinstated. This allows more flexibility for the industry to avail of LGV driver test appointments.\n\nAt this time the DVA can facilitate practical driving tests and theory tests for LGV drivers and they will continue to liaise with training schools to monitor the demand for tests.\n\nIn the first four full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 1,290 LGV driving tests, which is 65% higher than the five-year average for that period, demonstrating a clear commitment to providing increased testing capacity to support the needs of the sector.","answerHtml":"I am aware, following the announcement, that GB is introducing changes to HGV driving tests to try to help the sector tackle the lorry driver shortage.
Testing is not seen as a significant reason for Large Goods Vehicle (LGV) driver shortages here. A recent RHA survey identifies driver’s retirements, Brexit and changes to off-payroll working rules as the three main reasons for the shortages. Here, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has taken a range of measures to maximise the availability of LGV driving test slots. In addition to normal weekday slots they also now offer LGV driving tests on a Saturday and on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. However, uptake from the industry, particularly on Sundays, has been less than expected, given the demand for these types of tests. Overtime is also used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity.
The DVA is continuing to explore a number of options to increase the number of LGV examiners to address current demands at those test centres where LGV testing is offered. This includes identifying current examiners with relevant licences to be trained to conduct LGV Tests.
The DVA also engages with various LGV driver training schools in relation to test appointments. Test Centre Managers frequently liaise directly with the training schools to meet specific requirements and help address demands. Standing appointments for LGV driver training schools, which were previously suspended due to Covid 19 restrictions, have now been reinstated. This allows more flexibility for the industry to avail of LGV driver test appointments.
At this time the DVA can facilitate practical driving tests and theory tests for LGV drivers and they will continue to liaise with training schools to monitor the demand for tests.
In the first four full months since driving tests resumed on 23 April, the DVA has conducted 1,290 LGV driving tests, which is 65% higher than the five-year average for that period, demonstrating a clear commitment to providing increased testing capacity to support the needs of the sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022782%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350492"}},{"id":"350491","reference":"AQW 22781/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-20","answerBy":"2021-10-05","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline his plans for creating a formal COVID-19 shielding policy for those who are clinically extremely vulnerable.","answerText":"I recognise that this has been a difficult and worrying time for many people in our community and particularly for those who have an underlying medical condition which means they may be vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19.\n\nAs the Member will be aware, shielding was paused from 31 July 2020. My Department has no plans to reintroduce shielding.\n\nSince last July, advice for people who were identified as clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) to COVID-19 has been kept under continual review by a dedicated Cell in the Department of Health, which is overseen by the Deputy Chief Medical Officer. Up to date advice is available at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-clinically-extremely-vulnerable-and-vulnerable-people.\n\nI would encourage those who are eligible to do so to come forward for vaccination as well as for the booster since this offers the best available protection against COVID-19. The details on getting first and second vaccinations or booster are available here.\n\nGet a COVID-19 vaccination in Northern Ireland | nidirect","answerHtml":"I recognise that this has been a difficult and worrying time for many people in our community and particularly for those who have an underlying medical condition which means they may be vulnerable to the impact of COVID-19.
As the Member will be aware, shielding was paused from 31 July 2020. My Department has no plans to reintroduce shielding.
Since last July, advice for people who were identified as clinically extremely vulnerable (CEV) to COVID-19 has been kept under continual review by a dedicated Cell in the Department of Health, which is overseen by the Deputy Chief Medical Officer. Up to date advice is available at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-guidance-clinically-extremely-vulnerable-and-vulnerable-people.
I would encourage those who are eligible to do so to come forward for vaccination as well as for the booster since this offers the best available protection against COVID-19. The details on getting first and second vaccinations or booster are available here.
Get a COVID-19 vaccination in Northern Ireland | nidirect
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022781%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350491"}},{"id":"350355","reference":"AQW 22692/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on (i) the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer; and (ii) how clubs in the East Londonderry constituency will benefit from the programme.","answerText":"You will be aware that the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme is a commitment of the ‘New Decade New Approach’ agreement and I had requested that my Department take forward a ‘Refresh and Re-engagement’ exercise to identify the current and future needs for soccer at all levels.\n\nOnce I am fully satisfied that the evidence and benchmarking presented are addressing both the current and future needs of local soccer I will update Executive colleagues on my proposals on the way forward for the Programme.\n\nAs I recently stated at Minister’s Question Time on 20 September 2021, addressing regional disparity and funding are crucial issues and this will be one of my considerations as part of the refresh and re-engagement exercise.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme is a commitment of the ‘New Decade New Approach’ agreement and I had requested that my Department take forward a ‘Refresh and Re-engagement’ exercise to identify the current and future needs for soccer at all levels.
Once I am fully satisfied that the evidence and benchmarking presented are addressing both the current and future needs of local soccer I will update Executive colleagues on my proposals on the way forward for the Programme.
As I recently stated at Minister’s Question Time on 20 September 2021, addressing regional disparity and funding are crucial issues and this will be one of my considerations as part of the refresh and re-engagement exercise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022692%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350355"}},{"id":"350353","reference":"AQW 22690/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how people who are double jabbed in Northern Ireland can prove their vaccination status in England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"A solution to provide NI Citizens with certified proof of their vaccination status to facilitate International Travel was deployed on 2 July 2021. It adheres to EU and WHO specifications for such certificates and produced to the agreed UK format. The NI Executive has not yet established a policy on Domestic Use of Covid vaccination information.\n\nMy Department has no responsibility over entry requirements of UK commercial companies for access to their services. Authorities in the Republic of Ireland have published details of the documentation required to meet their Regulations.","answerHtml":"A solution to provide NI Citizens with certified proof of their vaccination status to facilitate International Travel was deployed on 2 July 2021. It adheres to EU and WHO specifications for such certificates and produced to the agreed UK format. The NI Executive has not yet established a policy on Domestic Use of Covid vaccination information.
My Department has no responsibility over entry requirements of UK commercial companies for access to their services. Authorities in the Republic of Ireland have published details of the documentation required to meet their Regulations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022690%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350353"}},{"id":"350352","reference":"AQW 22689/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to call for an investigation into care home deaths resulting from COVID-19, similar to Operation Koper in Scotland.","answerText":"I have no plans currently to call for an investigation into Care Home deaths similar to Operation Koper in Scotland.\n\nI fully expect there to be a full review of our response to COVID-19 within Northern Ireland at a later date, including the virus’s impact on Care homes and the HSC response.\n\nMy Department and the wider HSC will play its part in this so that we can ensure that appropriate lessons are learned and any necessary action taken.","answerHtml":"I have no plans currently to call for an investigation into Care Home deaths similar to Operation Koper in Scotland.
I fully expect there to be a full review of our response to COVID-19 within Northern Ireland at a later date, including the virus’s impact on Care homes and the HSC response.
My Department and the wider HSC will play its part in this so that we can ensure that appropriate lessons are learned and any necessary action taken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022689%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350352"}},{"id":"350351","reference":"AQW 22688/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-17","answerBy":"2021-10-04","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 18309/17-22, to detail the reason for Firmus Energy not extending their gas pipeline network into Portrush.","answerText":"At present, Portrush lies outside Firmus Energy’s licensed development area. As such, any decision to extend the gas network to the town is subject to the Utility Regulator’s approval and must be demonstrated to be economically viable on the basis of potential gas loads. To do otherwise would risk increasing gas prices as the cost of providing new gas networks is recovered from consumers through their gas bills over periods of up to 40 years.\n\nFirmus Energy advise that the economics of extending the gas network to Portrush currently fall outside the Utility Regulator’s acceptable appraisal threshold. The company also advises that the cost of laying new gas mains to serve Portrush does not compare favourably with the number of properties which could benefit from natural gas, and this is exacerbated by insufficient business gas loads and lower anticipated levels of domestic gas usage due to some of the housing stock being used as holiday homes.","answerHtml":"At present, Portrush lies outside Firmus Energy’s licensed development area. As such, any decision to extend the gas network to the town is subject to the Utility Regulator’s approval and must be demonstrated to be economically viable on the basis of potential gas loads. To do otherwise would risk increasing gas prices as the cost of providing new gas networks is recovered from consumers through their gas bills over periods of up to 40 years.
Firmus Energy advise that the economics of extending the gas network to Portrush currently fall outside the Utility Regulator’s acceptable appraisal threshold. The company also advises that the cost of laying new gas mains to serve Portrush does not compare favourably with the number of properties which could benefit from natural gas, and this is exacerbated by insufficient business gas loads and lower anticipated levels of domestic gas usage due to some of the housing stock being used as holiday homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022688%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350351"}},{"id":"350118","reference":"AQW 22609/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-16","answerBy":"2021-10-01","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any plans they have to recognise and celebrate Black History Month.","answerText":"We are fully cognisant of the importance of Black History Month and welcome the opportunity it provides to celebrate the heritage and contributions of members of our community with African and Caribbean heritage.\n\nWe welcome the programme of cultural events taking place here which is included on the Black History Month website at: www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk and would encourage everyone to get involved.\n\nThe needs, rights, history and culture of our community with African and Caribbean heritage is something we value and cherish.\n\nWe therefore remain committed to full implementation of our Racial Equality Strategy to ensure that all members of our minority ethnic communities are valued along with the skills, new ideas, and fresh perspectives that they bring to life here.","answerHtml":"We are fully cognisant of the importance of Black History Month and welcome the opportunity it provides to celebrate the heritage and contributions of members of our community with African and Caribbean heritage.
We welcome the programme of cultural events taking place here which is included on the Black History Month website at: www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk and would encourage everyone to get involved.
The needs, rights, history and culture of our community with African and Caribbean heritage is something we value and cherish.
We therefore remain committed to full implementation of our Racial Equality Strategy to ensure that all members of our minority ethnic communities are valued along with the skills, new ideas, and fresh perspectives that they bring to life here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022609%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350118"}},{"id":"350117","reference":"AQW 22608/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-16","answerBy":"2021-10-01","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the assessment processes available for children in school whose parents request a test for dyslexia.","answerText":"Parents are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the school Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo), in the first instance as the Education Authority (EA) advises that schools are best positioned to identify those children who may have difficulties with Special Educational Needs (SEN), including Dyslexia and will carry out initial baseline assessments and to establish school based supports for their learning.\n\nShould parent/ carers feel that their child/ young person is still having difficulty accessing learning, despite assistance being provided by the school, or other professionals, they can submit a request for a Statutory Assessment direct to EA via their online request form.\n\nWhere a school feels it is unable to meet a young person’s needs from the resources typically available, they then may decide to prioritise the child for a Stage 3 psychological assessment.\n\nAt this point a referral to the EA Literacy Service, based on the application of the Code of Practice and the Provisional Criteria to access the service, may also be made. The EA Literacy Service will carry out a range of diagnostic assessments prior to any periods of teaching. These are distinct from the assessments undertaken by EA Psychology as they are for the purpose of informing teaching and learning strategies.","answerHtml":"Parents are encouraged to discuss their concerns with the school Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCo), in the first instance as the Education Authority (EA) advises that schools are best positioned to identify those children who may have difficulties with Special Educational Needs (SEN), including Dyslexia and will carry out initial baseline assessments and to establish school based supports for their learning.
Should parent/ carers feel that their child/ young person is still having difficulty accessing learning, despite assistance being provided by the school, or other professionals, they can submit a request for a Statutory Assessment direct to EA via their online request form.
Where a school feels it is unable to meet a young person’s needs from the resources typically available, they then may decide to prioritise the child for a Stage 3 psychological assessment.
At this point a referral to the EA Literacy Service, based on the application of the Code of Practice and the Provisional Criteria to access the service, may also be made. The EA Literacy Service will carry out a range of diagnostic assessments prior to any periods of teaching. These are distinct from the assessments undertaken by EA Psychology as they are for the purpose of informing teaching and learning strategies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022608%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350117"}},{"id":"350116","reference":"AQW 22607/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-16","answerBy":"2021-10-01","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of fees for landlords with Houses in Multiple Occupancy; and (ii) what consideration she has given to revising such fees to encourage more landlords to open up their accommodation for students.","answerText":"The fees for licencing a House in Multiple Occupation are set at £37 per tenant per year. The licence is usually for a term of 5 years. The fees have been set at this level as the scheme was designed to be self-funding. The fees are kept under review.","answerHtml":"The fees for licencing a House in Multiple Occupation are set at £37 per tenant per year. The licence is usually for a term of 5 years. The fees have been set at this level as the scheme was designed to be self-funding. The fees are kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022607%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350116"}},{"id":"350115","reference":"AQW 22606/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-16","answerBy":"2021-10-01","answered":"2021-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people diagnosed with any form of arthritis in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The information is not available as requested. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the disease registers in the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF), the purpose of which is to reward General Medical Service’s contractors for the provision of quality care. The rheumatoid arthritis register contains the number of people aged 16 and over diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.\n\nQOF disease prevalence data is published annually. Information for the last 5 years broken down by Local Commissioning Group (which equates geographically to HSC Trusts) is available at the following link: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/prevalence-statistics.","answerHtml":"The information is not available as requested. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the disease registers in the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF), the purpose of which is to reward General Medical Service’s contractors for the provision of quality care. The rheumatoid arthritis register contains the number of people aged 16 and over diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.
QOF disease prevalence data is published annually. Information for the last 5 years broken down by Local Commissioning Group (which equates geographically to HSC Trusts) is available at the following link: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/prevalence-statistics.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022606%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=350115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=350115"}},{"id":"349860","reference":"AQW 22504/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-20","answered":"2022-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the COVID-19 special recognition payment for (a) Health and Social Care staff, including those in GP surgeries; and (b) health and social care workers from the independent sector; and (ii) to outline the reasons for the payment not having yet been delivered to some HSC staff.","answerText":"Phase 1 of the Special Recognition Payment process is considering claims from employers for staff that are currently employed. As at 26 January 2022, 563 claims have been received from care home and domiciliary care providers which are progressing through the various stages of the pre-payment checks. This figure includes 513 care providers that have submitted the required documentation which have been processed by BSO with a total payment value of just over £14.9m which includes 25,714 individuals.\n\nThe recognition payment has also been paid to community pharmacies, dental practices, optometry practices and General Practice; Out of Hours mutual organisations and GP Federations who meet the qualifying criteria.\n\nFor this group, as at 26 January 2022, 1,442 claims have been received, of which 1,436 claims have been processed with a total value of over £10.3m paid to 18,539 staff.\n\nDue to the transient nature of staff employed in the independent sector, some people may have moved to another employer for any number of reasons, including a job in a new sector. The mechanism for administering the special recognition payments in these circumstances is included in the second phase of the process. Details of Phase 2 were communicated on 28 January 2022 to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA.\n\nI have written to these employers setting out the expectation that they will complete the claim process for all staff employed by them during the qualifying period who meet the eligibility criteria and who have now left.\n\nIt is accepted that this approach will involve some additional work for employers as they will have to make contact with ex-employees but they will be entitled to claim the administration fee (£12.60 per employee) for this.\n\nWhere we are made aware of employers who are not engaging officials will make direct contact with these providers and potentially follow this up with formal correspondence where appropriate.\n\nUnfortunately we have little by way of enforcement options and we may ultimately have to advise staff to seek redress through the Labour Relations Agency. It is however hoped that there would be sufficient pressure applied through departmental engagement to persuade any reluctant\n\nI remain personally committed to ensuring the recognition payment will be paid to independent sector staff as soon as it is practicable.\n\nA FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available at the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs","answerHtml":"Phase 1 of the Special Recognition Payment process is considering claims from employers for staff that are currently employed. As at 26 January 2022, 563 claims have been received from care home and domiciliary care providers which are progressing through the various stages of the pre-payment checks. This figure includes 513 care providers that have submitted the required documentation which have been processed by BSO with a total payment value of just over £14.9m which includes 25,714 individuals.
The recognition payment has also been paid to community pharmacies, dental practices, optometry practices and General Practice; Out of Hours mutual organisations and GP Federations who meet the qualifying criteria.
For this group, as at 26 January 2022, 1,442 claims have been received, of which 1,436 claims have been processed with a total value of over £10.3m paid to 18,539 staff.
Due to the transient nature of staff employed in the independent sector, some people may have moved to another employer for any number of reasons, including a job in a new sector. The mechanism for administering the special recognition payments in these circumstances is included in the second phase of the process. Details of Phase 2 were communicated on 28 January 2022 to all Independent Sector care home and domiciliary care providers registered with the RQIA.
I have written to these employers setting out the expectation that they will complete the claim process for all staff employed by them during the qualifying period who meet the eligibility criteria and who have now left.
It is accepted that this approach will involve some additional work for employers as they will have to make contact with ex-employees but they will be entitled to claim the administration fee (£12.60 per employee) for this.
Where we are made aware of employers who are not engaging officials will make direct contact with these providers and potentially follow this up with formal correspondence where appropriate.
Unfortunately we have little by way of enforcement options and we may ultimately have to advise staff to seek redress through the Labour Relations Agency. It is however hoped that there would be sufficient pressure applied through departmental engagement to persuade any reluctant
I remain personally committed to ensuring the recognition payment will be paid to independent sector staff as soon as it is practicable.
A FAQ on the special recognition payment has been published on the Department’s website and is available at the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022504%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349860"}},{"id":"349859","reference":"AQW 22503/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any plans he has to maximise the number of north coast businesses, including those in hospitality, retail and tourism, to be able to benefit from the 2025 British Open in Portrush.","answerText":"The decision to bring The Open Championship back to Royal Portrush, is another ringing endorsement of the quality of the golf experience in Northern Ireland and our ability to stage world-class events. It comes at an important time in our economic recovery from Covid, as the international tourist market starts to open up. The announcement will encourage golf visitors to explore NI's great golf offer in the years preceding the event, as well as when we host the Championship again in 2025.\n\nThe 148th Open was a phenomenal success, attended by 237,750 patrons making it the largest ever Open to be held outside St Andrews and the second largest attendance in the event’s history. In excess of £100 million of combined economic and media benefit was generated for Northern Ireland from the event itself. Independent event research shows a significant amount of net additional spend was generated in the North Coast area. It also assisted in delivering a record year for Golf Tourism, with 2019 generating £52 million into the Northern Ireland Economy.\n\nThe collective ambition of the R&A, Royal Portrush Golf Club, the NI Executive, Tourism NI and key delivery partners, such as the Causeway Coast and Glens Council is to make the 153rd Open Championship even better than the 148th.\n\nTourism NI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the event, including engagement with councils and the business community to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. This will build on the successful model deployed in 2019, including industry workshops, toolkits, a dressing and animation programme and customer service excellence training initiatives.\n\nTourism NI, in partnership with Tourism Ireland have a significant golf marketing programme in place for the next 4 years, that will build on the legacy of The 148th Open at Royal Portrush. This will include securing international sales platforms to put Northern Ireland on the map and allow businesses to increase their international sales. Consumer campaigns will also run in the lead up to the event.\n\nTourism NI will continue to work closely with the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) and Golf Clubs through its Quality Assurance Programme to develop the product and to increase sales through international sales promotion.\n\nThe Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit brand offers an exciting opportunity for Northern Ireland tourism industry to get involved in the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that will resonate with visitors across the world.\n\nTourism NI will continue to develop and support new and existing experiences along the North Coast which will help to support the overall tourism offer for the area. By having more experiences on offer, this in turn will hopefully help to increase opportunities for additional dwell time and spend for businesses from visitors coming to the area as a result of The Open in 2025.\n\nThere is no doubt that the 153rd Open Championship offers an abundance of opportunity for businesses in the North Coast and across Northern Ireland, in the led up to the event in the next four years and during event week itself.\n\nI would encourage businesses to get engaged with the platforms, initiatives and opportunities that will be rolled out by Tourism NI and key partners in the years ahead, as well all prepare to make this another record-breaking Championship.","answerHtml":"The decision to bring The Open Championship back to Royal Portrush, is another ringing endorsement of the quality of the golf experience in Northern Ireland and our ability to stage world-class events. It comes at an important time in our economic recovery from Covid, as the international tourist market starts to open up. The announcement will encourage golf visitors to explore NI's great golf offer in the years preceding the event, as well as when we host the Championship again in 2025.
The 148th Open was a phenomenal success, attended by 237,750 patrons making it the largest ever Open to be held outside St Andrews and the second largest attendance in the event’s history. In excess of £100 million of combined economic and media benefit was generated for Northern Ireland from the event itself. Independent event research shows a significant amount of net additional spend was generated in the North Coast area. It also assisted in delivering a record year for Golf Tourism, with 2019 generating £52 million into the Northern Ireland Economy.
The collective ambition of the R&A, Royal Portrush Golf Club, the NI Executive, Tourism NI and key delivery partners, such as the Causeway Coast and Glens Council is to make the 153rd Open Championship even better than the 148th.
Tourism NI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the event, including engagement with councils and the business community to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. This will build on the successful model deployed in 2019, including industry workshops, toolkits, a dressing and animation programme and customer service excellence training initiatives.
Tourism NI, in partnership with Tourism Ireland have a significant golf marketing programme in place for the next 4 years, that will build on the legacy of The 148th Open at Royal Portrush. This will include securing international sales platforms to put Northern Ireland on the map and allow businesses to increase their international sales. Consumer campaigns will also run in the lead up to the event.
Tourism NI will continue to work closely with the International Association of Golf Tour Operators (IAGTO) and Golf Clubs through its Quality Assurance Programme to develop the product and to increase sales through international sales promotion.
The Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit brand offers an exciting opportunity for Northern Ireland tourism industry to get involved in the development of new and immersive authentic experiences that will resonate with visitors across the world.
Tourism NI will continue to develop and support new and existing experiences along the North Coast which will help to support the overall tourism offer for the area. By having more experiences on offer, this in turn will hopefully help to increase opportunities for additional dwell time and spend for businesses from visitors coming to the area as a result of The Open in 2025.
There is no doubt that the 153rd Open Championship offers an abundance of opportunity for businesses in the North Coast and across Northern Ireland, in the led up to the event in the next four years and during event week itself.
I would encourage businesses to get engaged with the platforms, initiatives and opportunities that will be rolled out by Tourism NI and key partners in the years ahead, as well all prepare to make this another record-breaking Championship.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022503%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349859"}},{"id":"349858","reference":"AQW 22502/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice pursuant to AQW 21865/17-22, to detail any plans she has to review anti-social behaviour policy and legislation.","answerText":"Responsibility for addressing anti-social behaviour (ASB) sits across a number of statutory agencies and my officials are currently leading a cross Departmental, multi-agency Review Delivery Group to review ASB Legislation.\n\nA total of nine powers are being considered by the Group, four of which have been added as a direct response to feedback received via the 2018 consultation on ASB legislation.\n\nPolicy responsibility for any potential new powers arising from the review, and consideration of the effectiveness of equivalent powers in Northern Ireland, sits across three government departments – Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Department for Communities (DfC), and Department of Justice (DoJ). Whilst my Department leads on the legislative review, we do not own the levers to ensure delivery of those powers which sit outside the remit of the DoJ.\n\nThe timescale for implementation of any new or amended power(s) for addressing ASB will, where relevant, depend on each Departmental lead and their legislative work programme.\n\nIt is still a relatively early stage to know which, if any, of the existing powers will need to be amended or if any new powers will need to be introduced. At this point in time, officials are at the review and evidence gathering stage of the process, including considering if a non-legislative mechanism can be used just as effectively to address an issue instead.\n\nThe review process will be considered complete when recommendations have been agreed for all nine powers under consideration. Where this results in proposed legislative change, each Departmental lead is responsible for taking forward any subsequent legislative process relating to these powers and within the timeframe set by their individual Department’s legislative work programme.\n\nIn tandem with the above review, the Group also seeks to inform discussion on any barriers and solutions to manage non-legislative responses to ASB, including any structures to allow for partnership and collaborative working. The outworking of these discussions will help inform policy decisions as the review progresses.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for addressing anti-social behaviour (ASB) sits across a number of statutory agencies and my officials are currently leading a cross Departmental, multi-agency Review Delivery Group to review ASB Legislation.
A total of nine powers are being considered by the Group, four of which have been added as a direct response to feedback received via the 2018 consultation on ASB legislation.
Policy responsibility for any potential new powers arising from the review, and consideration of the effectiveness of equivalent powers in Northern Ireland, sits across three government departments – Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Department for Communities (DfC), and Department of Justice (DoJ). Whilst my Department leads on the legislative review, we do not own the levers to ensure delivery of those powers which sit outside the remit of the DoJ.
The timescale for implementation of any new or amended power(s) for addressing ASB will, where relevant, depend on each Departmental lead and their legislative work programme.
It is still a relatively early stage to know which, if any, of the existing powers will need to be amended or if any new powers will need to be introduced. At this point in time, officials are at the review and evidence gathering stage of the process, including considering if a non-legislative mechanism can be used just as effectively to address an issue instead.
The review process will be considered complete when recommendations have been agreed for all nine powers under consideration. Where this results in proposed legislative change, each Departmental lead is responsible for taking forward any subsequent legislative process relating to these powers and within the timeframe set by their individual Department’s legislative work programme.
In tandem with the above review, the Group also seeks to inform discussion on any barriers and solutions to manage non-legislative responses to ASB, including any structures to allow for partnership and collaborative working. The outworking of these discussions will help inform policy decisions as the review progresses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022502%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349858"}},{"id":"349857","reference":"AQW 22501/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the current level of respite services for families with children with special educational and physical needs.","answerText":"Short Breaks and respite services are a critical part of the support for disabled children, young people and their families. There is a strong regional consensus that a pressing need exists to increase the range of residential and community based short breaks. Covid-19 has impacted the availability of respites for children’s services. In response, Trusts have occasionally temporarily re-purposed short break settings to accommodate Looked After Children.\n\nThe HSCB has developed a draft Regional Framework for Children’s Disability Services, which proposes a new care model for children with a disability in Northern Ireland. The draft framework outlines a model of practice based on: (i) early intervention; (ii) collaboration & multi-agency working; (iii) co-design & decision making with families; and (iv) person centred care.\n\nMy officials have engaged with HSCB colleagues on the draft Framework and will provide them with feedback in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"Short Breaks and respite services are a critical part of the support for disabled children, young people and their families. There is a strong regional consensus that a pressing need exists to increase the range of residential and community based short breaks. Covid-19 has impacted the availability of respites for children’s services. In response, Trusts have occasionally temporarily re-purposed short break settings to accommodate Looked After Children.
The HSCB has developed a draft Regional Framework for Children’s Disability Services, which proposes a new care model for children with a disability in Northern Ireland. The draft framework outlines a model of practice based on: (i) early intervention; (ii) collaboration & multi-agency working; (iii) co-design & decision making with families; and (iv) person centred care.
My officials have engaged with HSCB colleagues on the draft Framework and will provide them with feedback in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022501%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349857"}},{"id":"349856","reference":"AQW 22500/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-15","answerBy":"2021-09-30","answered":"2021-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the current General Dental Services contract; (ii) what plans he has to revise it; and (iii) when this process will commence.","answerText":"The current NI GDS contract has been largely unchanged since the UK-wide contract of the 1990s. It is still the long term goal of my Department to develop and implement a new contract for General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), orthodontists and primary care oral surgeons in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on delivery of dental services cannot be underestimated. The continuing Infection Prevention and Control restrictions mean that patient footfall remains unavoidably low and there is a continued additional burden on costs. It is also likely that, with the backlog in treatment, the challenges facing us over the next 2/3 years will be different from those facing us thereafter; the post-pandemic clinical landscape is not yet known to us. These Covid-related factors create an immediate challenge for General Dental Services, over and above pre-pandemic contractual considerations.\n\nTo help address these challenges, I established the General Dental Services Rebuilding Stakeholder Group in June 2021. The aim of this group is to provide a focus and momentum to addressing the challenges facing the sector in the coming months and years. The GDS Rebuilding Stakeholder Group has met on two occasions to date with further meeting dates confirmed. My Department will continue to work with the Health and Social Care Board and the British Dental Association representatives through this group to secure the immediate and longer term future of Health Service dentistry for patients.\n\nGiven the ongoing pandemic and the impact on dental service delivery, my Department is focussed on addressing these difficulties at this time.","answerHtml":"The current NI GDS contract has been largely unchanged since the UK-wide contract of the 1990s. It is still the long term goal of my Department to develop and implement a new contract for General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), orthodontists and primary care oral surgeons in Northern Ireland.
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on delivery of dental services cannot be underestimated. The continuing Infection Prevention and Control restrictions mean that patient footfall remains unavoidably low and there is a continued additional burden on costs. It is also likely that, with the backlog in treatment, the challenges facing us over the next 2/3 years will be different from those facing us thereafter; the post-pandemic clinical landscape is not yet known to us. These Covid-related factors create an immediate challenge for General Dental Services, over and above pre-pandemic contractual considerations.
To help address these challenges, I established the General Dental Services Rebuilding Stakeholder Group in June 2021. The aim of this group is to provide a focus and momentum to addressing the challenges facing the sector in the coming months and years. The GDS Rebuilding Stakeholder Group has met on two occasions to date with further meeting dates confirmed. My Department will continue to work with the Health and Social Care Board and the British Dental Association representatives through this group to secure the immediate and longer term future of Health Service dentistry for patients.
Given the ongoing pandemic and the impact on dental service delivery, my Department is focussed on addressing these difficulties at this time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022500%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349856","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349856"}},{"id":"349675","reference":"AQW 22394/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of how the use of North Coast Community Transport has increased; and (ii) to detail the support provided to it by her Department.","answerText":"North Coast Community Transport (NCCT) is funded by my Department to deliver Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme services. These services provide accessible, affordable transport options across rural communities to those people who are socially isolated and have difficulty accessing public transport. It also provides Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) services to the following urban towns within its operational area: Limavady, Ballymena and Coleraine/Ballymoney. My Department provides overall funding directly to Disability Action to deliver DATS and NCCT delivers services on its behalf.\n\nBoth DAL and DATS are demand driven services meaning usage will fluctuate each year. DAL service usage, if considered over the past five years since 2016/17, initially increased but has since 2019/20 reduced. A significant decrease occurred between 2019/20 and 2020/21 as a result of Covid. DATS usage has been steadily declining over the past 5 years.\n\nI am very aware of the invaluable contribution both these services make towards enabling some of the most vulnerable people in our society to overcome barriers to social interaction and to access essential services. That is why I took a decision in March 2020, given the severe disruption to DAL and DATS services, to allow community transport operators to temporarily transition their services in order to provide extra flexibility and support. The community transport operators continued to deliver essential passenger journeys but were also able to provide non-passenger services including assisting the delivery of DfC food parcels, prepaid groceries and prescriptions. Transitioned services were also made available to non-members and for vaccination appointments at the start of 2021. Demand for community passenger transport is beginning to increase as restrictions are incrementally eased and public confidence about safety slowly returns.\n\nI have ensured that funding levels have been maintained for these services despite the negative impacts of Covid. Over the 2021/22 financial year NCCT has received total funding from my Department, for DAL related services, of approximately £521, 000. The majority of which (£385,000) is provided for DAL services funded by the Rural Transport Fund. The remainder of the funding has been provided in relation to resource funding for personal protective equipment and blue/green infrastructure capital funding for the purchase of an electric vehicle and charging point as part of a trial which all community transport operators are taking part in. NCCT has also received approximately £167,000 through the Assisted Rural Transport Scheme (ARTS). ARTS is funded by DAERA but administered by my Department. In addition my Department provides approximately £2.1m annually directly to Disability Action who allocate that funding to a number of organisations, including NCCT, to deliver services on its behalf.\n\nI remain committed to working hard to ensure my Department continues to support community transport and the important services that it delivers.","answerHtml":"North Coast Community Transport (NCCT) is funded by my Department to deliver Dial-a-Lift (DAL) Scheme services. These services provide accessible, affordable transport options across rural communities to those people who are socially isolated and have difficulty accessing public transport. It also provides Disability Action Transport Scheme (DATS) services to the following urban towns within its operational area: Limavady, Ballymena and Coleraine/Ballymoney. My Department provides overall funding directly to Disability Action to deliver DATS and NCCT delivers services on its behalf.
Both DAL and DATS are demand driven services meaning usage will fluctuate each year. DAL service usage, if considered over the past five years since 2016/17, initially increased but has since 2019/20 reduced. A significant decrease occurred between 2019/20 and 2020/21 as a result of Covid. DATS usage has been steadily declining over the past 5 years.
I am very aware of the invaluable contribution both these services make towards enabling some of the most vulnerable people in our society to overcome barriers to social interaction and to access essential services. That is why I took a decision in March 2020, given the severe disruption to DAL and DATS services, to allow community transport operators to temporarily transition their services in order to provide extra flexibility and support. The community transport operators continued to deliver essential passenger journeys but were also able to provide non-passenger services including assisting the delivery of DfC food parcels, prepaid groceries and prescriptions. Transitioned services were also made available to non-members and for vaccination appointments at the start of 2021. Demand for community passenger transport is beginning to increase as restrictions are incrementally eased and public confidence about safety slowly returns.
I have ensured that funding levels have been maintained for these services despite the negative impacts of Covid. Over the 2021/22 financial year NCCT has received total funding from my Department, for DAL related services, of approximately £521, 000. The majority of which (£385,000) is provided for DAL services funded by the Rural Transport Fund. The remainder of the funding has been provided in relation to resource funding for personal protective equipment and blue/green infrastructure capital funding for the purchase of an electric vehicle and charging point as part of a trial which all community transport operators are taking part in. NCCT has also received approximately £167,000 through the Assisted Rural Transport Scheme (ARTS). ARTS is funded by DAERA but administered by my Department. In addition my Department provides approximately £2.1m annually directly to Disability Action who allocate that funding to a number of organisations, including NCCT, to deliver services on its behalf.
I remain committed to working hard to ensure my Department continues to support community transport and the important services that it delivers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022394%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349675"}},{"id":"349674","reference":"AQW 22393/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the financial support in place for substitute teachers with school-age dependents, that are unable to work due to childcare responsibilities resulting from their child having to self-isolate at home after COVID close contact in school.","answerText":"Changes to the Statutory Sick Pay scheme ensure that support is available to those who have been advised, by a relevant notification, to self-isolate.\n\nIf a person is unable to work and they are not eligible for Statutory Sick Pay they may be entitled to Universal Credit. More information on how to make a claim for Universal Credit, including the eligibility criteria, can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/universal-credit\n\nHelp is also available through my Department’s Discretionary Support service.\n\nMore information about the financial support available through the Discretionary Support scheme can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support","answerHtml":"Changes to the Statutory Sick Pay scheme ensure that support is available to those who have been advised, by a relevant notification, to self-isolate.
If a person is unable to work and they are not eligible for Statutory Sick Pay they may be entitled to Universal Credit. More information on how to make a claim for Universal Credit, including the eligibility criteria, can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/universal-credit
Help is also available through my Department’s Discretionary Support service.
More information about the financial support available through the Discretionary Support scheme can be found at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022393%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349674","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349674"}},{"id":"349673","reference":"AQW 22392/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her assessment of staffing pressures on schools due to close contact isolation regulations.","answerText":"I appreciate the excellent work that our teachers have been undertaking during the unprecedented challenges that the pandemic has presented. Due to the current high community prevalence of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland, a large number of cases were being reported by schools and this caused distress and disruption for many as the new school term began.\n\nAs a result of the issues brought to my attention, my Department and the Department of Health (DoH) agreed that from 10 September the Public Health Agency (PHA) Contact Tracing Service would be the lead body for contact tracing of positive cases within the school setting.\n\nThis approach replaced the school-led process to identify close contacts of COVID-19 cases with a more targeted PHA-led approach, with support from school leaders in certain circumstances. The aim of this change was to reduce the potential for large numbers of pupils being required to self-isolate and reduce the amount of time spent by school staff on contact tracing.\n\nThis more targeted approach to the identification of close contacts of COVID-19 in schools has been introduced to ensure that children and young people are able to remain at school. It is important that children stay in school as much a possible but there is a balance to be struck in terms of risk. We also need to ensure that we do what we can to stop the spread of the virus and reduce the number of positive cases by identifying individuals who have had the closest contact with the case and are at highest risk of getting COVID-19.\n\nMy Department provides guidance to schools under advisement from DoH / PHA but it does not have any practical role in the day to day running of individual schools. That is the role of the Board of Governors (BoG) and leadership team of each school with advice and guidance from their employing authority e.g. the Education Authority for controlled schools or the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools for maintained schools.\n\nIt is a matter for each BoG to determine the staffing complement for their school and for the principal to seek substitute cover when necessary. There are currently circa 8,000 substitute teachers registered on the Northern Ireland Substitute Teachers’ Register as available for teaching work in schools.","answerHtml":"I appreciate the excellent work that our teachers have been undertaking during the unprecedented challenges that the pandemic has presented. Due to the current high community prevalence of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland, a large number of cases were being reported by schools and this caused distress and disruption for many as the new school term began.
As a result of the issues brought to my attention, my Department and the Department of Health (DoH) agreed that from 10 September the Public Health Agency (PHA) Contact Tracing Service would be the lead body for contact tracing of positive cases within the school setting.
This approach replaced the school-led process to identify close contacts of COVID-19 cases with a more targeted PHA-led approach, with support from school leaders in certain circumstances. The aim of this change was to reduce the potential for large numbers of pupils being required to self-isolate and reduce the amount of time spent by school staff on contact tracing.
This more targeted approach to the identification of close contacts of COVID-19 in schools has been introduced to ensure that children and young people are able to remain at school. It is important that children stay in school as much a possible but there is a balance to be struck in terms of risk. We also need to ensure that we do what we can to stop the spread of the virus and reduce the number of positive cases by identifying individuals who have had the closest contact with the case and are at highest risk of getting COVID-19.
My Department provides guidance to schools under advisement from DoH / PHA but it does not have any practical role in the day to day running of individual schools. That is the role of the Board of Governors (BoG) and leadership team of each school with advice and guidance from their employing authority e.g. the Education Authority for controlled schools or the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools for maintained schools.
It is a matter for each BoG to determine the staffing complement for their school and for the principal to seek substitute cover when necessary. There are currently circa 8,000 substitute teachers registered on the Northern Ireland Substitute Teachers’ Register as available for teaching work in schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022392%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349673","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349673"}},{"id":"349672","reference":"AQW 22391/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the support measures in place for substitute teachers with school-age dependents, that are unable to work due to childcare responsibilities resulting from their child having to self-isolate at home after COVID-19 close contact in school.","answerText":"The Department of Education is not the employer of teachers and does not intervene in employment matters. Teachers are employed by the Board of Governors (BoG) for each school setting, with HR matters carried out in conjunction with the relevant employing authority e.g. the Education Authority for controlled schools or the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools for maintained schools. In the case of Voluntary Grammars, the BoG is both the employer and the employing authority.\n\nIn the case of substitute teachers, it is the principal of the individual school who decides the circumstances in which to engage a substitute teacher (using the NISTR system) and how long the engagement is expected to last. Substitute teachers are only employed temporarily during periods that they are teaching in schools.\n\nAn Income Support Scheme for Substitute Teachers was introduced to support substitute teachers during April to June 2020 and again in January to March 2021. The purpose of each scheme was to alleviate any potential hardship due to the sudden loss of opportunity to work during the periods of school closure to all but vulnerable pupils and key workers’ children. Each scheme ended when schools reopened and a normal demand for the services of substitute teachers resumed; there are no plans for any further scheme. There is no other facility to provide payment for substitute teachers when they are not working in schools.\n\nIt was decided from the outset of the pandemic that all employees will receive normal pay across the range of circumstances that we are facing whether they remain in the workplace, are working from home or are unable to carry on working due to circumstances beyond their control. Schools should continue to honour existing bookings of substitute teachers impacted by unforeseen Covid-19 issues so that they receive their normal pay during the period of their engagement.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education is not the employer of teachers and does not intervene in employment matters. Teachers are employed by the Board of Governors (BoG) for each school setting, with HR matters carried out in conjunction with the relevant employing authority e.g. the Education Authority for controlled schools or the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools for maintained schools. In the case of Voluntary Grammars, the BoG is both the employer and the employing authority.
In the case of substitute teachers, it is the principal of the individual school who decides the circumstances in which to engage a substitute teacher (using the NISTR system) and how long the engagement is expected to last. Substitute teachers are only employed temporarily during periods that they are teaching in schools.
An Income Support Scheme for Substitute Teachers was introduced to support substitute teachers during April to June 2020 and again in January to March 2021. The purpose of each scheme was to alleviate any potential hardship due to the sudden loss of opportunity to work during the periods of school closure to all but vulnerable pupils and key workers’ children. Each scheme ended when schools reopened and a normal demand for the services of substitute teachers resumed; there are no plans for any further scheme. There is no other facility to provide payment for substitute teachers when they are not working in schools.
It was decided from the outset of the pandemic that all employees will receive normal pay across the range of circumstances that we are facing whether they remain in the workplace, are working from home or are unable to carry on working due to circumstances beyond their control. Schools should continue to honour existing bookings of substitute teachers impacted by unforeseen Covid-19 issues so that they receive their normal pay during the period of their engagement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022391%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349672","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349672"}},{"id":"349671","reference":"AQW 22390/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-14","answerBy":"2021-09-29","answered":"2021-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps his Department is taking to restart in-person pulmonary rehabilitation services.","answerText":"Pulmonary rehabilitation is an exercise and education programme designed for people with lung disease who experience symptoms of breathlessness. It focuses on tailored physical exercise and information that helps people to better understand and manage their condition/s and symptoms.\n\nEach Health and Social Care Trust is responsible for the delivery of pulmonary rehabilitation services in their respective Trust areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on the delivery of in-person sessions across all five Trusts. In- person face-to- face pulmonary rehabilitation services were stepped down due to patient safety as patients with chronic respiratory disease are more vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 and also given the COVID-19 restrictions in place across Northern Ireland which meant that group exercise classes were not possible nor permitted.\n\nDuring this time, virtual on-line pulmonary rehabilitation classes were offered as an alternative and respiratory teams continued to engage with this patient group to offer support and self-management advice when needed.\n\nIn-person pulmonary rehabilitation services have re-started in Belfast HSC Trust, Southern HSC Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust areas. The ongoing impact of the pandemic has prevented a re-start in Northern HSC Trust and Western HSC Trust areas, however virtual pulmonary rehabilitation sessions continue to be available. Plans are in place in the Northern HSC Trust to restart in-person sessions in the New Year.","answerHtml":"Pulmonary rehabilitation is an exercise and education programme designed for people with lung disease who experience symptoms of breathlessness. It focuses on tailored physical exercise and information that helps people to better understand and manage their condition/s and symptoms.
Each Health and Social Care Trust is responsible for the delivery of pulmonary rehabilitation services in their respective Trust areas. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted on the delivery of in-person sessions across all five Trusts. In- person face-to- face pulmonary rehabilitation services were stepped down due to patient safety as patients with chronic respiratory disease are more vulnerable to the impacts of COVID-19 and also given the COVID-19 restrictions in place across Northern Ireland which meant that group exercise classes were not possible nor permitted.
During this time, virtual on-line pulmonary rehabilitation classes were offered as an alternative and respiratory teams continued to engage with this patient group to offer support and self-management advice when needed.
In-person pulmonary rehabilitation services have re-started in Belfast HSC Trust, Southern HSC Trust and South Eastern HSC Trust areas. The ongoing impact of the pandemic has prevented a re-start in Northern HSC Trust and Western HSC Trust areas, however virtual pulmonary rehabilitation sessions continue to be available. Plans are in place in the Northern HSC Trust to restart in-person sessions in the New Year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022390%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349671"}},{"id":"349507","reference":"AQW 22274/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2021-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of new (i) hybrid; and (ii) fully electric vehicles sold in Northern Ireland, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department for Transport (DfT) publishes national statistics detailing new registrations of cars and other vehicle types by propulsion/fuel type in quarterly and annual formats.\n\nThese are available from the DFT website via the link below.\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/veh02-licensed-cars\n\nThe numbers of hybrid and electric cars registered for the first time in Northern Ireland in each of the last five calendar years are detailed in the table below.\n\nCars registered for the first time by propulsion / fuel type in Northern Ireland 2016-2020\n\nYear\tHybrid Electric1\tElectric\n2020\t4,153\t1,992\n2019\t2,543\t806\n2018\t1,815\t688\n2017\t1,346\t601\n2016\t820\t464\n\nSource: DfT vehicle licensing statistics Table VEH0253\n\nNotes: 1. A hybrid electric vehicle uses an internal combustion engine plus an electric motor.","answerHtml":"The Department for Transport (DfT) publishes national statistics detailing new registrations of cars and other vehicle types by propulsion/fuel type in quarterly and annual formats.
These are available from the DFT website via the link below.
https://www.gov.uk/government/statistical-data-sets/veh02-licensed-cars
The numbers of hybrid and electric cars registered for the first time in Northern Ireland in each of the last five calendar years are detailed in the table below.
Cars registered for the first time by propulsion / fuel type in Northern Ireland 2016-2020
| Year | Hybrid Electric1 | Electric |
| 2020 | 4,153 | 1,992 |
| 2019 | 2,543 | 806 |
| 2018 | 1,815 | 688 |
| 2017 | 1,346 | 601 |
| 2016 | 820 | 464 |
Source: DfT vehicle licensing statistics Table VEH0253
Notes: 1. A hybrid electric vehicle uses an internal combustion engine plus an electric motor.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022274%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349507","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349507"}},{"id":"349506","reference":"AQW 22273/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2022-01-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the potential for food and goods shortages in the coming months.","answerText":"It is difficult to say with any degree of certainty whether or not there will be shortages of certain goods in the future. Certainly NI businesses have demonstrated their resilience and adaptability over recent times to ensure shelves remain stocked. In addition the situation on food is something that is closely monitored by DAERA and the current position remains relatively stable.\n\nHowever, there are a number of factors at play including the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic; global shipping costs and availability of shipping containers; HGV driver shortages; the new GB arrangements following EU exit; and the impact of the Northern Ireland protocol on bringing goods from other parts of the UK into Northern Ireland. Collectively we will do all we can to support businesses as they grapple with the global challenges they face.","answerHtml":"It is difficult to say with any degree of certainty whether or not there will be shortages of certain goods in the future. Certainly NI businesses have demonstrated their resilience and adaptability over recent times to ensure shelves remain stocked. In addition the situation on food is something that is closely monitored by DAERA and the current position remains relatively stable.
However, there are a number of factors at play including the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic; global shipping costs and availability of shipping containers; HGV driver shortages; the new GB arrangements following EU exit; and the impact of the Northern Ireland protocol on bringing goods from other parts of the UK into Northern Ireland. Collectively we will do all we can to support businesses as they grapple with the global challenges they face.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022273%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349506"}},{"id":"349504","reference":"AQW 22271/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has asked, or plans to ask, the army to help the health service to relieve current pressures.","answerText":"There is an agreed process for Military Assistance for Civilian Authorities (MACA), allowing me as Minister to request military support from the Ministry of Defence, through a request made by the Northern Ireland Office.\n\nI initiated this process on 9 September 2021, requesting 80 Combat Medical Technicians (CMT) to come and help our most under pressure hospitals. While a request for military assistance is only made once all other avenues have been explored, I felt it was necessary in light of the extreme difficulties currently facing HSC. This request is currently being considered by MOD and the UK Minister for the Armed Forces and we hope to hear the outcome shortly.\n\nGiven the pressure across the system, I will explore all avenues to help patients and staff throughout this difficult period. Staff are exhausted, having been facing the pandemic and it’s repercussions for the best part of two years now, and I will do everything in my power to help them in whatever way I can.\n\nThis is not a political decision, the number one priority is to save lives and protect front line staff.","answerHtml":"There is an agreed process for Military Assistance for Civilian Authorities (MACA), allowing me as Minister to request military support from the Ministry of Defence, through a request made by the Northern Ireland Office.
I initiated this process on 9 September 2021, requesting 80 Combat Medical Technicians (CMT) to come and help our most under pressure hospitals. While a request for military assistance is only made once all other avenues have been explored, I felt it was necessary in light of the extreme difficulties currently facing HSC. This request is currently being considered by MOD and the UK Minister for the Armed Forces and we hope to hear the outcome shortly.
Given the pressure across the system, I will explore all avenues to help patients and staff throughout this difficult period. Staff are exhausted, having been facing the pandemic and it’s repercussions for the best part of two years now, and I will do everything in my power to help them in whatever way I can.
This is not a political decision, the number one priority is to save lives and protect front line staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022271%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349504"}},{"id":"349503","reference":"AQW 22270/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-13","answerBy":"2021-09-28","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to hold an emergency summit of healthcare professionals in order to help counter growing waiting lists.","answerText":"The situation facing the health and social care system is extremely serious. I and my officials are in contact with healthcare leaders and professionals on a daily basis and collectively our focus is on managing the immediate and ongoing impact of COVID-19 while protecting as much elective care capacity as possible.","answerHtml":"The situation facing the health and social care system is extremely serious. I and my officials are in contact with healthcare leaders and professionals on a daily basis and collectively our focus is on managing the immediate and ongoing impact of COVID-19 while protecting as much elective care capacity as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022270%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349503"}},{"id":"349379","reference":"AQW 22192/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the functionality of the Northern Irish planning system, compared to other parts of the UK and Ireland; and (ii) what steps she is taking to make the system attractive to large developers.","answerText":"I believe that the basic structures of the planning system in Northern Ireland are fit for purpose. However, like all planning systems, I recognise that there is always room for improvement. While there are similarities across the various jurisdictions, there are also significant differences in how each planning system works, how performance is measured and the political and administrative contexts. It is, therefore, difficult to assess the functionality and performance of the planning system in the North against that of other jurisdictions.\n\nMy Department has taken a number of steps to make the system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders in the North. A Planning Forum has been established whose key focus is to oversee the implementation of recommendations made in an independent report on the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. This work has a particular focus on improving processes and timeframes for statutory consultee responses for major and economically significant planning applications. My Department is also undertaking a review of the implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011. Whilst this is not a fundamental ‘root and branch’ review of the two- tier planning system, I am keen that it looks at how we can further improve the system for all stakeholders – including councils, developers, and the wider public.\n\nI also convened the Planning Engagement Partnership last October to look at how to enhance the quality and depth of community engagement in planning and place shaping processes at both the regional and local planning authority levels. In addition, my Department and 10 councils are working together to take forward a new Regional Planning IT system to provide a more modern planning service to the public, consultees and staff including the ability for the public to submit planning applications on-line. This is expected to be operational in 2022.\n\nI recognise that there is a need to improve the process and I am fully committed to improving the planning system for all stakeholders and as a key enabler to support a green recovery following the Covid pandemic.","answerHtml":"I believe that the basic structures of the planning system in Northern Ireland are fit for purpose. However, like all planning systems, I recognise that there is always room for improvement. While there are similarities across the various jurisdictions, there are also significant differences in how each planning system works, how performance is measured and the political and administrative contexts. It is, therefore, difficult to assess the functionality and performance of the planning system in the North against that of other jurisdictions.
My Department has taken a number of steps to make the system more efficient and effective for all stakeholders in the North. A Planning Forum has been established whose key focus is to oversee the implementation of recommendations made in an independent report on the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. This work has a particular focus on improving processes and timeframes for statutory consultee responses for major and economically significant planning applications. My Department is also undertaking a review of the implementation of the Planning Act (NI) 2011. Whilst this is not a fundamental ‘root and branch’ review of the two- tier planning system, I am keen that it looks at how we can further improve the system for all stakeholders – including councils, developers, and the wider public.
I also convened the Planning Engagement Partnership last October to look at how to enhance the quality and depth of community engagement in planning and place shaping processes at both the regional and local planning authority levels. In addition, my Department and 10 councils are working together to take forward a new Regional Planning IT system to provide a more modern planning service to the public, consultees and staff including the ability for the public to submit planning applications on-line. This is expected to be operational in 2022.
I recognise that there is a need to improve the process and I am fully committed to improving the planning system for all stakeholders and as a key enabler to support a green recovery following the Covid pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022192%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349379","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349379"}},{"id":"349378","reference":"AQW 22191/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the rules for parents who wish to keep their children off school as a preventative measure from COVID-19.","answerText":"In keeping with the most recent guidance issued to schools on 23 August 2021 via DE Circular 2021/16, a parent who decides to keep their child at home against the advice of the school or public health advice at the time should expect the absence to be recorded as unauthorised.","answerHtml":"In keeping with the most recent guidance issued to schools on 23 August 2021 via DE Circular 2021/16, a parent who decides to keep their child at home against the advice of the school or public health advice at the time should expect the absence to be recorded as unauthorised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022191%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349378","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349378"}},{"id":"349377","reference":"AQW 22190/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline the various options he is considering to tackle bovine TB that do not involve a non-selective badger cull.","answerText":"The recent public consultation on the Department’s Proposed Implementation and Next Steps of the bTB Eradication Strategy for Northern Ireland which closed on 10 September, detailed the five feasible options which had been identified and appraised by the business case underpinning the Strategy, that could address the role of the badger population in maintenance and spread of bTB; and how the preferred option was reached.\n\nTwo of the five options do not involve a non-selective cull. These are:\n\nTest, and Vaccinate or Remove (TVR) using baited cages as a capture method.\n\nTVR using stopped restraints as a capture method.\n\nWithin the two TVR approaches, badgers are trapped and anaesthetised to allow a blood sample to be taken and tested for bTB. Those badgers which test positive are euthanised while those animals testing negative for the disease are vaccinated and released.\n\nThe consultation, which also contained proposals relating to a non-selective cull, provided an opportunity for me to hear views from stakeholders and the wider public. The consultation garnered over 3,400 responses which I will now carefully consider alongside all the available evidence before taking a final decision on the way forward in relation to addressing the role of the badger population in the maintenance and spread of bTB, as part of an holistic bTB Eradication Strategy.","answerHtml":"The recent public consultation on the Department’s Proposed Implementation and Next Steps of the bTB Eradication Strategy for Northern Ireland which closed on 10 September, detailed the five feasible options which had been identified and appraised by the business case underpinning the Strategy, that could address the role of the badger population in maintenance and spread of bTB; and how the preferred option was reached.
Two of the five options do not involve a non-selective cull. These are:
Test, and Vaccinate or Remove (TVR) using baited cages as a capture method.
TVR using stopped restraints as a capture method.
Within the two TVR approaches, badgers are trapped and anaesthetised to allow a blood sample to be taken and tested for bTB. Those badgers which test positive are euthanised while those animals testing negative for the disease are vaccinated and released.
The consultation, which also contained proposals relating to a non-selective cull, provided an opportunity for me to hear views from stakeholders and the wider public. The consultation garnered over 3,400 responses which I will now carefully consider alongside all the available evidence before taking a final decision on the way forward in relation to addressing the role of the badger population in the maintenance and spread of bTB, as part of an holistic bTB Eradication Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022190%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349377","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349377"}},{"id":"349376","reference":"AQW 22189/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether caravan owners are entitled to refunds for site and other associated fees for the periods of lockdown when they were not permitted to access their caravan.","answerText":"The Caravans Act (NI) 2011, which falls within the remit of the Department for Communities, requires that caravan owners must be provided with a written agreement which constitutes a consumer contract and should include the express terms of the agreement and site fees.\n\nThe agreement is subject to a test of fairness under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 (the ‘Act’). As a regulator under the Act, the Department for the Economy’s Trading Standards Service (TSS) provides ongoing advice and guidance to caravan owners on consumer rights issues via Consumerline. However, the TSS has no remit to facilitate the refund of site and other associated fees as the Act does not allow for the assessment of the price payable for goods or services and therefore site fees cannot be assessed for fairness.\n\nCaravan owners should refer to their written agreement to review exactly what the park owner is contracted to provide, and to assess if the contract includes any terms which might offer them some cover for a situation similar to that experienced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nAdditionally, written DfE guidance including “Caravan Holiday Homes – questions you should ask” and further guidance on site owners and occupiers’ obligations is published on the Department for the Economy website at: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/caravan-holiday-homes and on the NI Direct website.","answerHtml":"The Caravans Act (NI) 2011, which falls within the remit of the Department for Communities, requires that caravan owners must be provided with a written agreement which constitutes a consumer contract and should include the express terms of the agreement and site fees.
The agreement is subject to a test of fairness under the Consumer Rights Act 2015 (the ‘Act’). As a regulator under the Act, the Department for the Economy’s Trading Standards Service (TSS) provides ongoing advice and guidance to caravan owners on consumer rights issues via Consumerline. However, the TSS has no remit to facilitate the refund of site and other associated fees as the Act does not allow for the assessment of the price payable for goods or services and therefore site fees cannot be assessed for fairness.
Caravan owners should refer to their written agreement to review exactly what the park owner is contracted to provide, and to assess if the contract includes any terms which might offer them some cover for a situation similar to that experienced as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
Additionally, written DfE guidance including “Caravan Holiday Homes – questions you should ask” and further guidance on site owners and occupiers’ obligations is published on the Department for the Economy website at: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/caravan-holiday-homes and on the NI Direct website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022189%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349376","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349376"}},{"id":"349375","reference":"AQW 22188/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-10","answerBy":"2021-09-27","answered":"2021-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of assaults on Health and Social Care staff in each of the last five years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"I refer the member to my answer to AQW 19850/17-22","answerHtml":"I refer the member to my answer to AQW 19850/17-22
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022188%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349375","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349375"}},{"id":"349130","reference":"AQW 22021/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the need for a bypass at Ballykelly; and (ii) to detail any work carried out by her Department on this issue.","answerText":"I recognise the challenges experienced by residents and businesses in Ballykelly due to traffic using the main A2 road between Coleraine and Derry, and the congestion and delays experienced by road users on this important route.\n\nThe Investment Delivery Plan for Roads, published by the Department for Regional Development in 2008, identified the delivery of the Ballykelly Bypass. Following an assessment of a number of options, a preferred route was announced in March 2010. However this scheme was not progressed any further at that time.\n\nI am currently developing a new Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan (RSTNTP) which will set out future investment and improvements to our strategic transport networks (road, rail and bus) to 2035. This will reflect my commitment to improving connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe RSTNTP will consider proposals for the further development of the strategic road network, including the section of the A2 which runs through Ballykelly. It will also consider improvements to sustainable travel options, including improvements to bus and train provision and greenways.","answerHtml":"I recognise the challenges experienced by residents and businesses in Ballykelly due to traffic using the main A2 road between Coleraine and Derry, and the congestion and delays experienced by road users on this important route.
The Investment Delivery Plan for Roads, published by the Department for Regional Development in 2008, identified the delivery of the Ballykelly Bypass. Following an assessment of a number of options, a preferred route was announced in March 2010. However this scheme was not progressed any further at that time.
I am currently developing a new Regional Strategic Transport Network Transport Plan (RSTNTP) which will set out future investment and improvements to our strategic transport networks (road, rail and bus) to 2035. This will reflect my commitment to improving connectivity for the benefit of our economy and communities across Northern Ireland.
The RSTNTP will consider proposals for the further development of the strategic road network, including the section of the A2 which runs through Ballykelly. It will also consider improvements to sustainable travel options, including improvements to bus and train provision and greenways.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022021%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349130","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349130"}},{"id":"349129","reference":"AQW 22020/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to provide details of the support available in schools for those with eating disorders.","answerText":"The Education Authority currently provides a range of services to support pupils needing help to face difficulties that are impacting their ability to engage with education. Such services may encounter children with eating disorders as part of their core work and will offer support as appropriate, often through multi-disciplinary planning meetings, engaging with health professionals and family support.\n\nSpecifically, the EA Exceptional Teaching Arrangements (ETA) Service at Beechcroft Education Unit supports children who are inpatients, supporting the care planning process on the ward by assisting children to access their education. Furthermore ETA in the community can also provide teaching support to children and young people with eating disorders, who are not in hospital but who by virtue of their mental health, cannot attend school.\n\nThrough the Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework, published in February 2021, a range of further support programmes will be delivered jointly by Education and Health through a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach, and provide early and enhanced support for those children and young people who may be at risk, or showing signs of needing further help. This includes a new secure and confidential “Text A Nurse” service and a new CAMHS Wellbeing in School service which will help build capacity within schools to identify and get more timely support from core CAMHS services.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority currently provides a range of services to support pupils needing help to face difficulties that are impacting their ability to engage with education. Such services may encounter children with eating disorders as part of their core work and will offer support as appropriate, often through multi-disciplinary planning meetings, engaging with health professionals and family support.
Specifically, the EA Exceptional Teaching Arrangements (ETA) Service at Beechcroft Education Unit supports children who are inpatients, supporting the care planning process on the ward by assisting children to access their education. Furthermore ETA in the community can also provide teaching support to children and young people with eating disorders, who are not in hospital but who by virtue of their mental health, cannot attend school.
Through the Children and Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework, published in February 2021, a range of further support programmes will be delivered jointly by Education and Health through a holistic, multi-disciplinary approach, and provide early and enhanced support for those children and young people who may be at risk, or showing signs of needing further help. This includes a new secure and confidential “Text A Nurse” service and a new CAMHS Wellbeing in School service which will help build capacity within schools to identify and get more timely support from core CAMHS services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022020%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349129","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349129"}},{"id":"349128","reference":"AQW 22019/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether the £25 million funding boost for Project Stratum will enable the homes outlined as being eligible for the project, but were not included in the plans, to now benefit from the scheme.","answerText":"The recent announcement by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, confirming extra funding for Project Stratum, is the result of a long and ongoing process of engagement. The additional funding will contribute towards addressing premises that are currently beyond the scope of Project Stratum, as well as premises that were omitted from the target intervention area due to issues with the Land & Property Services Pointer dataset, but have since been identified as being eligible.\n\nMy Department remains on track to complete the governance and approvals processes required in advance of making an announcement and sharing the breakdown and location of premises to be brought into scope as part of this exercise, along with Fibrus Networks’ confirmed deployment rollout schedule.\n\nMy Department remains hopeful that the process will be concluded in the next several weeks and the granular detail can then be provided. It remains the overarching aspiration of my Department to maximise broadband coverage to benefit as many eligible premises as possible under Project Stratum from this public intervention under the State aid rules that govern the project.","answerHtml":"The recent announcement by the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport, confirming extra funding for Project Stratum, is the result of a long and ongoing process of engagement. The additional funding will contribute towards addressing premises that are currently beyond the scope of Project Stratum, as well as premises that were omitted from the target intervention area due to issues with the Land & Property Services Pointer dataset, but have since been identified as being eligible.
My Department remains on track to complete the governance and approvals processes required in advance of making an announcement and sharing the breakdown and location of premises to be brought into scope as part of this exercise, along with Fibrus Networks’ confirmed deployment rollout schedule.
My Department remains hopeful that the process will be concluded in the next several weeks and the granular detail can then be provided. It remains the overarching aspiration of my Department to maximise broadband coverage to benefit as many eligible premises as possible under Project Stratum from this public intervention under the State aid rules that govern the project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022019%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349128"}},{"id":"349127","reference":"AQW 22018/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 19330/17-22, to detail any inter-departmental strategies or approaches that are being used to prevent, identify and treat eating disorders.","answerText":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, which was published on 29 June, is a significant step in improving mental health services for Northern Ireland, including ensuring that those with eating disorders get the care and treatment they need.\n\nThe Mental Health Strategy was co-produced together with a broad range of stakeholders, including people with lived experience, carers, the interim Mental Health Champion, health and social care professionals, academics, the voluntary and community sector, and professional bodies. It is the intention that the Strategy implementation will be fully co-produced, which means including and involving all those who can provide meaningful input. This includes implementation work in respect of Action 29d of the Strategy which commits to enhancing the regional eating disorder service.\n\nWhilst there are no inter-Departmental strategies that are specific to addressing eating disorders, there are a wide range of policies in place or under development by other government Departments which have an impact on the mental health of our communities. Many of these are specifically referenced at Annex A of the published Mental Health Strategy 2021 – 31. It is important to recognise the links between these policies. My Department remains committed to continued collaboration and communication with other government Departments and other agencies to ensure this work is joined up and in line with the high level ambition to ensure good mental health across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, which was published on 29 June, is a significant step in improving mental health services for Northern Ireland, including ensuring that those with eating disorders get the care and treatment they need.
The Mental Health Strategy was co-produced together with a broad range of stakeholders, including people with lived experience, carers, the interim Mental Health Champion, health and social care professionals, academics, the voluntary and community sector, and professional bodies. It is the intention that the Strategy implementation will be fully co-produced, which means including and involving all those who can provide meaningful input. This includes implementation work in respect of Action 29d of the Strategy which commits to enhancing the regional eating disorder service.
Whilst there are no inter-Departmental strategies that are specific to addressing eating disorders, there are a wide range of policies in place or under development by other government Departments which have an impact on the mental health of our communities. Many of these are specifically referenced at Annex A of the published Mental Health Strategy 2021 – 31. It is important to recognise the links between these policies. My Department remains committed to continued collaboration and communication with other government Departments and other agencies to ensure this work is joined up and in line with the high level ambition to ensure good mental health across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022018%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349127"}},{"id":"349126","reference":"AQW 22017/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-08","answerBy":"2021-09-23","answered":"2021-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the Pharmacy Workforce Review Action Plan; and what steps he is taking to ensure local pharmacies are well-staffed in the short term.","answerText":"My Department published its Pharmacy Workforce Review and accompanying Action Plan last November 2020, to inform development of the whole NI pharmacy workforce over the next ten years.\n\nA Steering Group has been established to oversee implementation of the Action Plan. The plan contains 17 main actions which are being progressed under a number of work streams and sub-groups including Community Pharmacy Service Development, Pharmacy Technicians, Consultant Pharmacists, and General Practice Pharmacy.\n\nSignificant progress has been made to date with some early actions complete including agreement of the 2021/22 community pharmacy commissioning plan. To attract retain and recruit the necessary workforce the Pharmacy Futures campaign was also launched in November 2020 by the Pharmacy Forum NI, in partnership with the Department. The campaign was devised to significantly boost the profession by attracting pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy staff to come and work in NI. A virtual careers event was held earlier this summer and a network of Pharmacy Champions have now been established across NI. Other actions relating to pharmacy technicians and those requiring legislative changes, will be implemented in the longer term.\n\nTo help maximise the pharmacy workforce in the short term, my Department issued communications to pharmacy registrants, locums and undergraduates appealing for them to help their community pharmacy services by registering an interest to work in this sector. Recently retired pharmacists were also retained on the register to enable them to work during the pandemic. To alleviate workforce pressures in community pharmacy increased funding was provided for staffing during 2021 and remuneration for community pharmacy placements was increased to help retain students in NI to complete their foundation training.","answerHtml":"My Department published its Pharmacy Workforce Review and accompanying Action Plan last November 2020, to inform development of the whole NI pharmacy workforce over the next ten years.
A Steering Group has been established to oversee implementation of the Action Plan. The plan contains 17 main actions which are being progressed under a number of work streams and sub-groups including Community Pharmacy Service Development, Pharmacy Technicians, Consultant Pharmacists, and General Practice Pharmacy.
Significant progress has been made to date with some early actions complete including agreement of the 2021/22 community pharmacy commissioning plan. To attract retain and recruit the necessary workforce the Pharmacy Futures campaign was also launched in November 2020 by the Pharmacy Forum NI, in partnership with the Department. The campaign was devised to significantly boost the profession by attracting pharmacists, pharmacy technicians and pharmacy staff to come and work in NI. A virtual careers event was held earlier this summer and a network of Pharmacy Champions have now been established across NI. Other actions relating to pharmacy technicians and those requiring legislative changes, will be implemented in the longer term.
To help maximise the pharmacy workforce in the short term, my Department issued communications to pharmacy registrants, locums and undergraduates appealing for them to help their community pharmacy services by registering an interest to work in this sector. Recently retired pharmacists were also retained on the register to enable them to work during the pandemic. To alleviate workforce pressures in community pharmacy increased funding was provided for staffing during 2021 and remuneration for community pharmacy placements was increased to help retain students in NI to complete their foundation training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2022017%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=349126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=349126"}},{"id":"348992","reference":"AQW 21924/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the Holiday at Home Voucher Scheme, including the anticipated date of the roll-out.","answerText":"The Holiday at Home Voucher Scheme will allow Northern Ireland households to claim back 50% off a stay of two nights or more in certified accommodation, up to the value of £100. Vouchers will also be issued offering 50% off visits to attractions or tourism experience providers, up to the value of £20. Vouchers will be allocated on a first come first served basis and each household can apply for one of each type of voucher. Households can then claim their voucher money back by uploading their receipt and voucher details online. Tourism NI is currently working with the industry to decide on the most opportune time to launch the scheme.","answerHtml":"The Holiday at Home Voucher Scheme will allow Northern Ireland households to claim back 50% off a stay of two nights or more in certified accommodation, up to the value of £100. Vouchers will also be issued offering 50% off visits to attractions or tourism experience providers, up to the value of £20. Vouchers will be allocated on a first come first served basis and each household can apply for one of each type of voucher. Households can then claim their voucher money back by uploading their receipt and voucher details online. Tourism NI is currently working with the industry to decide on the most opportune time to launch the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021924%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348992"}},{"id":"348991","reference":"AQW 21923/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for his assessment of the supply and demand for hospitality staff, in Northern Ireland and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area.","answerText":"There has been increased demand for workers in the Hospitality sector across Northern Ireland with a high level of vacancies in a number of occupations including chefs, catering assistants, bartenders and waiting staff.\n\nThe Causeway Coast and Glens has the highest proportion of workers in the ‘Distribution, Hotels and Restaurant’ sector of Northern Ireland’s district council areas with 20.8 per cent of workers in this sector compared with the Northern Ireland average of 17.8 per cent.\n\nTo address the shortages my Department has helped the sector to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic by supporting the Further Education Colleges to deliver a series of Master Classes and a dedicated leadership and management course. Working with the Hospitality Sector and Tourism NI, the Belfast Metropolitan College hosted four, DfE-funded Master Classes in April and May 2021, with 179 attendees from the sector. Support for the sector continues with the Skills Focus programme offering bespoke training, aimed at Hospitality and Tourism managers.\n\nThe Skills Intervention Programme was also introduced to support Further and Higher Education providers deliver free courses for priority sectors including hospitality in areas such as food hygiene, customer service, digital skills and leadership and management\n\nSkill Up is a new initiative, following on from the success of The Skills Intervention Programme, delivering free training places in an investment of up to £23million over three years. Skill Up will support training of individuals, fully funding Further and Higher Education providers to deliver a wide range of qualifications.\n\nThis is according to NISRA’s Labour Force Survey Annual Report 2019. Available here: https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/labour-force-survey-annual-report-2019","answerHtml":"There has been increased demand for workers in the Hospitality sector across Northern Ireland with a high level of vacancies in a number of occupations including chefs, catering assistants, bartenders and waiting staff.
The Causeway Coast and Glens has the highest proportion of workers in the ‘Distribution, Hotels and Restaurant’ sector of Northern Ireland’s district council areas with 20.8 per cent of workers in this sector compared with the Northern Ireland average of 17.8 per cent.
To address the shortages my Department has helped the sector to recover from the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic by supporting the Further Education Colleges to deliver a series of Master Classes and a dedicated leadership and management course. Working with the Hospitality Sector and Tourism NI, the Belfast Metropolitan College hosted four, DfE-funded Master Classes in April and May 2021, with 179 attendees from the sector. Support for the sector continues with the Skills Focus programme offering bespoke training, aimed at Hospitality and Tourism managers.
The Skills Intervention Programme was also introduced to support Further and Higher Education providers deliver free courses for priority sectors including hospitality in areas such as food hygiene, customer service, digital skills and leadership and management
Skill Up is a new initiative, following on from the success of The Skills Intervention Programme, delivering free training places in an investment of up to £23million over three years. Skill Up will support training of individuals, fully funding Further and Higher Education providers to deliver a wide range of qualifications.
This is according to NISRA’s Labour Force Survey Annual Report 2019. Available here: https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/labour-force-survey-annual-report-2019
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021923%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348991"}},{"id":"348990","reference":"AQW 21922/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on (i) the proposed amalgamation of North Coast Integrated College, Coleraine High School and Dunluce College; and (ii) the sites being considered actively for the new school.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has been working in partnership with representatives of three schools, Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College (IC) on a joint proposal for non-selective post-primary provision in the Causeway area.\n\nA steering group, the ‘Causeway Project Board’, which includes representation from the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE), the Controlled Schools’ Support Council (CSSC) and the Ulster University, has prepared a Case for Change (CfC).\n\nThe consultation document was considered at the EA’s Board meeting on 24 June 2021 and approval was given to commence pre-publication consultation on 13 September 2021 which will run until 15 November 2021.\n\nMy Department only becomes formally engaged in the process when the Development Proposals (DPs) have been published.\n\nIn the future should the DP be approved, the new school would operate from existing accommodation until such time as it is approved for major capital investment.\n\nOnly in the event that funding for a major capital investment is subsequently approved would an analysis of the site options available be considered.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has been working in partnership with representatives of three schools, Coleraine College, Dunluce School and North Coast Integrated College (IC) on a joint proposal for non-selective post-primary provision in the Causeway area.
A steering group, the ‘Causeway Project Board’, which includes representation from the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE), the Controlled Schools’ Support Council (CSSC) and the Ulster University, has prepared a Case for Change (CfC).
The consultation document was considered at the EA’s Board meeting on 24 June 2021 and approval was given to commence pre-publication consultation on 13 September 2021 which will run until 15 November 2021.
My Department only becomes formally engaged in the process when the Development Proposals (DPs) have been published.
In the future should the DP be approved, the new school would operate from existing accommodation until such time as it is approved for major capital investment.
Only in the event that funding for a major capital investment is subsequently approved would an analysis of the site options available be considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021922%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348990"}},{"id":"348989","reference":"AQW 21921/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2021-10-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans to use hospitals or units that are covid-free or “covid-light” in order to facilitate surgeries and reduce cancellations.","answerText":"On 22 September I announced that an extensive programme of work has been undertaken to identify covid light, or green sites to ensure that the HSC estate is used to maximise non-covid elective capacity. In addition to Belfast City and Lagan Valley Hospitals, these sites will include the likes of Musgrave Park Hospital in Belfast and the hospital and primary care complex in Omagh. They will become designated elective surgery hubs where planned surgery will continue safely and sustainably throughout the winter.\n\nIn order for these hubs to work effectively they will need to be adequately staffed, and I also launched a targeted workforce appeal on 23 September, aimed specifically at recently retired staff and staff who have recently left the health service. They will be deployed at the Covid light sites to support the continuation of surgery services.","answerHtml":"On 22 September I announced that an extensive programme of work has been undertaken to identify covid light, or green sites to ensure that the HSC estate is used to maximise non-covid elective capacity. In addition to Belfast City and Lagan Valley Hospitals, these sites will include the likes of Musgrave Park Hospital in Belfast and the hospital and primary care complex in Omagh. They will become designated elective surgery hubs where planned surgery will continue safely and sustainably throughout the winter.
In order for these hubs to work effectively they will need to be adequately staffed, and I also launched a targeted workforce appeal on 23 September, aimed specifically at recently retired staff and staff who have recently left the health service. They will be deployed at the Covid light sites to support the continuation of surgery services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021921%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348989"}},{"id":"348988","reference":"AQW 21920/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-07","answerBy":"2021-09-22","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 20162/17-22, for his assessment of the adequacy of provision of health service ambulances and ambulance staff.","answerText":"NIAS has experienced steadily rising demand and deteriorating response time performance in recent years. A demand and capacity review was carried out in August 2017, which recognised that there was a significant shortfall in the number of staff required to operate the current service and a requirement for a significant increase in staff to meet demand in the next five years. Since the demand and capacity review was carried out, the gap between the number of staff available and the number needed to deliver the current service has widened.\n\nPressures on ambulance crews have been increasing due to the number of NIAS staff vacancies, the unmet requirement for additional staff and ongoing issues with lengthy patient handovers at Emergency Departments across the region as a result of pressure across the entire Health and Social Care system.\n\nNIAS will not be able to respond effectively to present and future demand until further investment is provided. My Department is currently reviewing a final draft outline business case for the required investment, which was received from NIAS in December 2021 and this will be submitted for further consideration by the Department of Finance.\n\nAs Health Minister I am extremely concerned about the current uncertainty over the 3-year budget planning exercise due to the absence of a functioning Executive, and the potential delay this is likely to have on key programmes such as this. This will undoubtedly affect patient care and it is vital that clarity on the budget is given as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"NIAS has experienced steadily rising demand and deteriorating response time performance in recent years. A demand and capacity review was carried out in August 2017, which recognised that there was a significant shortfall in the number of staff required to operate the current service and a requirement for a significant increase in staff to meet demand in the next five years. Since the demand and capacity review was carried out, the gap between the number of staff available and the number needed to deliver the current service has widened.
Pressures on ambulance crews have been increasing due to the number of NIAS staff vacancies, the unmet requirement for additional staff and ongoing issues with lengthy patient handovers at Emergency Departments across the region as a result of pressure across the entire Health and Social Care system.
NIAS will not be able to respond effectively to present and future demand until further investment is provided. My Department is currently reviewing a final draft outline business case for the required investment, which was received from NIAS in December 2021 and this will be submitted for further consideration by the Department of Finance.
As Health Minister I am extremely concerned about the current uncertainty over the 3-year budget planning exercise due to the absence of a functioning Executive, and the potential delay this is likely to have on key programmes such as this. This will undoubtedly affect patient care and it is vital that clarity on the budget is given as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021920%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348988"}},{"id":"348817","reference":"AQW 21869/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-06","answerBy":"2021-09-21","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what consideration she has given to allowing MOTs to be conducted in garages, as similar to rules in England and Wales.","answerText":"MOT tests are conducted in compliance with The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 and the Goods Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, and this existing legislative framework does not provide for vehicle tests to be conducted at private garages. There are no plans to consider changing this legislation.","answerHtml":"MOT tests are conducted in compliance with The Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1995 and the Motor Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 and the Goods Vehicle Testing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003, and this existing legislative framework does not provide for vehicle tests to be conducted at private garages. There are no plans to consider changing this legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021869%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348817"}},{"id":"348816","reference":"AQW 21868/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-06","answerBy":"2021-09-21","answered":"2021-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of gas and electricity prices rises; and (ii) what steps are being taken to reduce the resulting financial burden on consumers.","answerText":"The primary factor for recent energy price increases in Northern Ireland has been the rising cost of gas in wholesale markets. Increasing global demand for gas and supply chain challenges have raised the price in both wholesale and retail gas markets. This has also resulted in an increased cost of electricity generation with associated impacts in the retail electricity market. Despite the current upward pressure on global energy prices, Northern Ireland remains one of the cheapest places to buy electricity for both domestic and business consumers. Typical domestic credit bills for gas customers are also less than the standard tariff in ROI.\n\nMy Department continues to work with the Utility Regulator to ensure customers benefit from the regulated tariff regime for electricity and gas in Northern Ireland that provides a competitive ‘price to beat’.\n\nIn addition, the Consumer Council has a free independent energy price tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place. Their website has a number of free resources including help for consumers to be more energy efficient at home, get the best from their electricity or gas supply and save money.\n\nMy Department is preparing to publish a new energy strategy in the coming months. One of the key objectives of the new strategy will be to ensure that all households and businesses have access to essential and affordable energy to enable a decent standard of living, health and competitiveness. The Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty. My Department assists in tackling fuel poverty through setting energy efficiency policy that supports the reduction in household energy use and as a consequence household energy bills.\n\nThe Utility Regulator briefed the Department for Communities in advance of the recent price announcements and my officials have maintained a constant dialogue with colleagues in DfC to make them aware of the potential consequences of these rises, especially on the most vulnerable.","answerHtml":"The primary factor for recent energy price increases in Northern Ireland has been the rising cost of gas in wholesale markets. Increasing global demand for gas and supply chain challenges have raised the price in both wholesale and retail gas markets. This has also resulted in an increased cost of electricity generation with associated impacts in the retail electricity market. Despite the current upward pressure on global energy prices, Northern Ireland remains one of the cheapest places to buy electricity for both domestic and business consumers. Typical domestic credit bills for gas customers are also less than the standard tariff in ROI.
My Department continues to work with the Utility Regulator to ensure customers benefit from the regulated tariff regime for electricity and gas in Northern Ireland that provides a competitive ‘price to beat’.
In addition, the Consumer Council has a free independent energy price tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place. Their website has a number of free resources including help for consumers to be more energy efficient at home, get the best from their electricity or gas supply and save money.
My Department is preparing to publish a new energy strategy in the coming months. One of the key objectives of the new strategy will be to ensure that all households and businesses have access to essential and affordable energy to enable a decent standard of living, health and competitiveness. The Department for Communities has lead responsibility for fuel poverty. My Department assists in tackling fuel poverty through setting energy efficiency policy that supports the reduction in household energy use and as a consequence household energy bills.
The Utility Regulator briefed the Department for Communities in advance of the recent price announcements and my officials have maintained a constant dialogue with colleagues in DfC to make them aware of the potential consequences of these rises, especially on the most vulnerable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021868%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348816"}},{"id":"348815","reference":"AQW 21867/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-06","answerBy":"2021-09-21","answered":"2021-09-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of (i) staffing levels in the Northern Irish meat industry; and (ii) how migrant worker levels have contributed to this.","answerText":"I am very aware of the labour shortage issues facing the meat processing sector and I have been engaging extensively with stakeholders from across our food processing sector about their concerns on this issue.\n\nDespite employers offering competitive wages and other incentives, there is reported to be a significant and growing shortfall. This is because for a significant period of time we have relied on migrant workers to fill this labour gap. According to Labour Force Survey statistics, migrant workers made up 10.7% of total employment in the agri-food sector in 2020, down from 20.6% in 2019. Stakeholders have indicated that the new UK Immigration System is making it extremely difficult for them to continue to employ migrant workers and they have identified the English language requirement as a particular barrier to entry for those skill levels where it is possible to obtain working visas.\n\nThis is obviously a very worrying situation and I am committed to help mitigate the problem but as you know Immigration Policy is a reserved matter so my focus has been ongoing communication with top levels of Government in Whitehall to highlight the severity of the problems to help remedy the situation as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"I am very aware of the labour shortage issues facing the meat processing sector and I have been engaging extensively with stakeholders from across our food processing sector about their concerns on this issue.
Despite employers offering competitive wages and other incentives, there is reported to be a significant and growing shortfall. This is because for a significant period of time we have relied on migrant workers to fill this labour gap. According to Labour Force Survey statistics, migrant workers made up 10.7% of total employment in the agri-food sector in 2020, down from 20.6% in 2019. Stakeholders have indicated that the new UK Immigration System is making it extremely difficult for them to continue to employ migrant workers and they have identified the English language requirement as a particular barrier to entry for those skill levels where it is possible to obtain working visas.
This is obviously a very worrying situation and I am committed to help mitigate the problem but as you know Immigration Policy is a reserved matter so my focus has been ongoing communication with top levels of Government in Whitehall to highlight the severity of the problems to help remedy the situation as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021867%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348815"}},{"id":"348814","reference":"AQW 21866/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-06","answerBy":"2021-09-21","answered":"2021-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the current provision and reliability of electric vehicle charge points; and (ii) to detail what consideration she has given to establishing a comprehensive, publically-funded charge point network.","answerText":"The electric vehicle public charge point network in Northern Ireland is owned and operated on a commercial basis by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). I have met with ESB to encourage them to repair non-functioning charge points and I am pleased that ESB has commenced a replacement programme which will upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points. ESB has recently confirmed that 4 AC double-headed charge posts (8 charge points) have now been replaced and a further 11 AC double-headed charge posts (22 charge points) are scheduled for replacement in September. ESB has advised that this work programme is being carried out in two phases with the second phase of 15 double-headed charge posts (30 charge points) to be carried out later in the year including the 5 Rapid charge points.\n\nMany e-car drivers have already availed of the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grant to install a charge point at home. However, it is clear that many e-car drivers are continuing to rely on the ESB network which, at this stage, is free to use. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging as soon as possible and once e-car drivers have to pay to use the public network, it is anticipated, they will quickly begin to use home charging on a more regular basis where it will be cheaper. Obviously, this will have the knock on effect of freeing up public charge points for e-car drivers that really need them.\n\nClearly, this does not apply to all e-car drivers and this is where the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS), which is available to local councils, is essential to the overall solution. There has been a limited response to date from our local councils regarding ORCS applications and my officials will continue to encourage our councils to explore this funding opportunity. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. My Department does not currently fund the provision of electric vehicle charge points. I can advise that I have had a further meeting this month with Minister Maclean, Minister for the Future of Transport at the Department for Transport, to discuss the UK’s move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.\n\nMy Department has also been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"The electric vehicle public charge point network in Northern Ireland is owned and operated on a commercial basis by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). I have met with ESB to encourage them to repair non-functioning charge points and I am pleased that ESB has commenced a replacement programme which will upgrade a number of faulty charge points with more modern operational charge points. ESB has recently confirmed that 4 AC double-headed charge posts (8 charge points) have now been replaced and a further 11 AC double-headed charge posts (22 charge points) are scheduled for replacement in September. ESB has advised that this work programme is being carried out in two phases with the second phase of 15 double-headed charge posts (30 charge points) to be carried out later in the year including the 5 Rapid charge points.
Many e-car drivers have already availed of the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) grant to install a charge point at home. However, it is clear that many e-car drivers are continuing to rely on the ESB network which, at this stage, is free to use. I have encouraged ESB to introduce charging as soon as possible and once e-car drivers have to pay to use the public network, it is anticipated, they will quickly begin to use home charging on a more regular basis where it will be cheaper. Obviously, this will have the knock on effect of freeing up public charge points for e-car drivers that really need them.
Clearly, this does not apply to all e-car drivers and this is where the On-street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS), which is available to local councils, is essential to the overall solution. There has been a limited response to date from our local councils regarding ORCS applications and my officials will continue to encourage our councils to explore this funding opportunity. This funding cannot be accessed by my Department, it is only available to local councils and it is for them to apply individually or collectively.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in GB-NI are provided by OZEV. My Department does not currently fund the provision of electric vehicle charge points. I can advise that I have had a further meeting this month with Minister Maclean, Minister for the Future of Transport at the Department for Transport, to discuss the UK’s move to electric vehicles, the approach to installing charge point infrastructure and future funding including development opportunities for our charge point network. I have been assured that OZEV will continue to highlight opportunities for charge point operators in GB to consider entering the market here in the North.
My Department has also been leading on the Transport Working Group (TWG), set up to inform the transport elements of the Executive’s Energy Strategy. The Strategy, which is due to be published later this year, will include actions that need to be taken forward if we are to achieve a cleaner, greener transport system.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021866%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348814","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348814"}},{"id":"348813","reference":"AQW 21865/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-09-06","answerBy":"2021-09-21","answered":"2021-09-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of antisocial behaviour in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to outline the work being done by her Department to address this issue.","answerText":"The term anti-social behaviour (ASB) can be used to describe a wide range of behaviours which have a negative effect on quality of life issues and which fall below the threshold for criminal prosecution.\n\nTackling ASB is a strategic priority for local Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which are funded by my Department and the NI Policing Board and which have a key role in assessing the extent of actual and perceived ASB in local communities. PCSPs address ASB by liaising with their local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.\n\nDetails of the various initiatives to address ASB can be found in individual PCSP annual Action Plans. Some initiatives currently being delivered include the provision of community safety warden services; diversionary and community engagement projects; detached youth programmes; delivery of educational programmes; awareness raising campaigns to prevent ASB; projects with Night Time Economy stakeholders and small grant schemes.\n\nComplementing the operational work being undertaken by PCSPs, my officials are also engaged, via a cross Departmental and multi-agency delivery group, in a review of current ASB legislation. This review aims to ensure relevant bodies, such as PSNI and councils, have effective and proportionate enforcement powers in place to deal with ASB.\n\nIt should be noted that policy responsibility for potential new powers and/or amendment of existing powers arising from the ASB legislation review sits across three government departments – DAERA, DfC and DoJ. The timescale for implementation of any new or amended power(s) for addressing anti-social behaviour will, where relevant, depend on each Departmental lead and their legislative work programme. In those areas where my Department has policy responsibility, when a decision is made to either amend an existing power or create a new power to address ASB, this work will be treated as a priority, and a suitable legislative vehicle sought.","answerHtml":"The term anti-social behaviour (ASB) can be used to describe a wide range of behaviours which have a negative effect on quality of life issues and which fall below the threshold for criminal prosecution.
Tackling ASB is a strategic priority for local Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which are funded by my Department and the NI Policing Board and which have a key role in assessing the extent of actual and perceived ASB in local communities. PCSPs address ASB by liaising with their local communities and other key partners, including local statutory bodies/agencies and the voluntary and community sector, to develop appropriate actions to deal with, and reduce, the impact of ASB.
Details of the various initiatives to address ASB can be found in individual PCSP annual Action Plans. Some initiatives currently being delivered include the provision of community safety warden services; diversionary and community engagement projects; detached youth programmes; delivery of educational programmes; awareness raising campaigns to prevent ASB; projects with Night Time Economy stakeholders and small grant schemes.
Complementing the operational work being undertaken by PCSPs, my officials are also engaged, via a cross Departmental and multi-agency delivery group, in a review of current ASB legislation. This review aims to ensure relevant bodies, such as PSNI and councils, have effective and proportionate enforcement powers in place to deal with ASB.
It should be noted that policy responsibility for potential new powers and/or amendment of existing powers arising from the ASB legislation review sits across three government departments – DAERA, DfC and DoJ. The timescale for implementation of any new or amended power(s) for addressing anti-social behaviour will, where relevant, depend on each Departmental lead and their legislative work programme. In those areas where my Department has policy responsibility, when a decision is made to either amend an existing power or create a new power to address ASB, this work will be treated as a priority, and a suitable legislative vehicle sought.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021865%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=348813","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=348813"}},{"id":"346973","reference":"AQW 21759/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-09","answerBy":"2021-07-28","answered":"2021-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the fairness and accessibility of the Personal Independence Payments scheme, relative to Disability Living Allowance.","answerText":"Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was developed in DWP from early 2010\n\nThe stated policy behind PIP is to provide support to individuals experiencing barriers to living an independent life. It moved away from automatic entitlement for certain conditions.\n\nPIP is paid to help with the extra costs associated with a long-term health condition or disability and is a non-contributory, non means-tested and tax-free benefit and it is payable regardless of employment status.\n\nEntitlement to PIP is not based on an individual’s condition, but on how the\n\nperson is affected by it.","answerHtml":"Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was developed in DWP from early 2010
The stated policy behind PIP is to provide support to individuals experiencing barriers to living an independent life. It moved away from automatic entitlement for certain conditions.
PIP is paid to help with the extra costs associated with a long-term health condition or disability and is a non-contributory, non means-tested and tax-free benefit and it is payable regardless of employment status.
Entitlement to PIP is not based on an individual’s condition, but on how the
person is affected by it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021759%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346973","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346973"}},{"id":"346971","reference":"AQW 21757/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-09","answerBy":"2021-07-28","answered":"2021-08-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the requirements of non-Northern Irish students for accessing COVID-19 vaccinations locally.","answerText":"The NI Direct webpage “ Get a Covid 19 Vaccination in Northern Ireland” contains the following information:\n\n“If you're not registered with a GP in NI but live here or are temporarily a resident in NI, you should email the Department of Health at COVID-19VaccinationProgramme@health-ni.gov.uk and they will advise you how you can be vaccinated.”\n\nI can confirm this email address has seen a high volume of enquiry indicative of widespread awareness of the mechanism.\n\nFull details of this pathway to vaccination published is available via the following link:\n\nGet a COVID-19 vaccination in Northern Ireland | nidirect\n\nOnce an individual’s eligibility is established, an appointment for vaccination is arranged at a regional vaccination centre.","answerHtml":"The NI Direct webpage “ Get a Covid 19 Vaccination in Northern Ireland” contains the following information:
“If you're not registered with a GP in NI but live here or are temporarily a resident in NI, you should email the Department of Health at COVID-19VaccinationProgramme@health-ni.gov.uk and they will advise you how you can be vaccinated.”
I can confirm this email address has seen a high volume of enquiry indicative of widespread awareness of the mechanism.
Full details of this pathway to vaccination published is available via the following link:
Get a COVID-19 vaccination in Northern Ireland | nidirect
Once an individual’s eligibility is established, an appointment for vaccination is arranged at a regional vaccination centre.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021757%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346971","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346971"}},{"id":"346970","reference":"AQW 21756/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-09","answerBy":"2021-07-28","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 20591/17-22, for her assessment of the process by which post-primary schools select year 8 pupils.","answerText":"Legislation provides Boards of Governors (BoGs) of individual schools, and not my Department, with the power to determine which criteria schools will use for admission in the event of a school being over-subscribed with applicants.\n\nUnder Article 16B of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997, my Department may issue guidance on the transfer process, which BoGs must “have regard to”. Accordingly, last October my Department provided schools with guidance on the process, including on the use of recommended and not recommended admissions criteria.\n\nI do not believe there is a single set of admissions criteria that is appropriate for all schools and schools are best placed, having regard to my Department’s advice, to assess their own situation and decide on admissions criteria that are appropriate for their individual circumstances.\n\nMy Department will consider what additional guidance is required in light of the experience of Transfer 2021.","answerHtml":"Legislation provides Boards of Governors (BoGs) of individual schools, and not my Department, with the power to determine which criteria schools will use for admission in the event of a school being over-subscribed with applicants.
Under Article 16B of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997, my Department may issue guidance on the transfer process, which BoGs must “have regard to”. Accordingly, last October my Department provided schools with guidance on the process, including on the use of recommended and not recommended admissions criteria.
I do not believe there is a single set of admissions criteria that is appropriate for all schools and schools are best placed, having regard to my Department’s advice, to assess their own situation and decide on admissions criteria that are appropriate for their individual circumstances.
My Department will consider what additional guidance is required in light of the experience of Transfer 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021756%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346970","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346970"}},{"id":"346969","reference":"AQW 21755/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-09","answerBy":"2021-07-28","answered":"2021-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of NHS dentistry provision.","answerText":"Prior to the arrival of COVID-19, General Dental Services in Northern Ireland faced many challenges, however access to treatment was good and the general oral health of the population was improving.\n\nThe impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on delivery of dental services cannot be underestimated. The continuing Infection Prevention and Control restrictions mean that patient footfall remains unavoidably low and there is a continued additional burden on costs. It is also likely that, with the backlog in treatment, the challenges facing us over the next 2/3 years will be different from those facing us before the pandemic.\n\nTo ensure access to care is maintained during the pandemic, my Department established the Financial Support Scheme to support General Dental Practices in Northern Ireland. The rapid set-up of Urgent Dental Care Centres (UDCC’s) across the five Trust areas in Northern Ireland ensured dental care for all groups, including the vulnerable, elderly and children has been maintained during this difficult time. Furthermore, patient registration periods have been extended throughout the pandemic to ensure patients maintain access to their registered dental practitioner.","answerHtml":"Prior to the arrival of COVID-19, General Dental Services in Northern Ireland faced many challenges, however access to treatment was good and the general oral health of the population was improving.
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on delivery of dental services cannot be underestimated. The continuing Infection Prevention and Control restrictions mean that patient footfall remains unavoidably low and there is a continued additional burden on costs. It is also likely that, with the backlog in treatment, the challenges facing us over the next 2/3 years will be different from those facing us before the pandemic.
To ensure access to care is maintained during the pandemic, my Department established the Financial Support Scheme to support General Dental Practices in Northern Ireland. The rapid set-up of Urgent Dental Care Centres (UDCC’s) across the five Trust areas in Northern Ireland ensured dental care for all groups, including the vulnerable, elderly and children has been maintained during this difficult time. Furthermore, patient registration periods have been extended throughout the pandemic to ensure patients maintain access to their registered dental practitioner.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021755%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346969","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346969"}},{"id":"346860","reference":"AQW 21670/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-08","answerBy":"2021-07-15","answered":"2021-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the advice given to child and youth organisations planning overnight stays (a) indoors; and (b) outdoors in tents; (ii) the rules on sharing bedrooms and tents; and whether these rules facilitate such overnight group stays.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) does not give advice to children and young people’s youth organisations regarding overnight stays. Within the voluntary and community sector it is the responsibility of each management committee to decide on the provision made by their own organisational staff.\n\nThe EA is however responsible for the delivery of youth services and to assist in the safe reopening of provision has produced comprehensive information and guidance including specific guidance on residential and overnight stays which can be accessed via the following link - Youth-Restart-Addendum-Residential-Overnight-Stay-Guidance-1.pdf (youthonline.org.uk).","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) does not give advice to children and young people’s youth organisations regarding overnight stays. Within the voluntary and community sector it is the responsibility of each management committee to decide on the provision made by their own organisational staff.
The EA is however responsible for the delivery of youth services and to assist in the safe reopening of provision has produced comprehensive information and guidance including specific guidance on residential and overnight stays which can be accessed via the following link - Youth-Restart-Addendum-Residential-Overnight-Stay-Guidance-1.pdf (youthonline.org.uk).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021670%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346860"}},{"id":"346859","reference":"AQW 21669/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-08","answerBy":"2021-07-27","answered":"2021-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of energy price rises; and (ii) how a rise in price of energy influences his Department’s Energy Strategy.","answerText":"The primary factor for recent energy price increases in Northern Ireland has been the rising cost of gas in wholesale markets. Increasing global demand for gas and challenges in supply chains have raised the price in both wholesale and retail gas markets. This has also resulted in increased cost of electricity generation with associated impacts in the retail electricity market.\n\nDespite the current upward pressure on global energy prices, Northern Ireland remains one of the cheapest places to buy electricity for both domestic and business consumers. Typical domestic credit bills for gas customers are less than both the GB average and the standard tariff in Ireland. My Department continues to work with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council to ensure consumers are protected as much as possible through the regulated tariff regime for electricity and gas in Northern Ireland. The Consumer Council also has a free independent energy price comparison tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place.\n\nOne of the key objectives of my Department’s New Energy Strategy will be to ensure all consumers have access to affordable energy. We plan to achieve this vision by enabling consumers to be active participants in the energy market and by further protecting those who are unable or unwilling to participate actively.","answerHtml":"The primary factor for recent energy price increases in Northern Ireland has been the rising cost of gas in wholesale markets. Increasing global demand for gas and challenges in supply chains have raised the price in both wholesale and retail gas markets. This has also resulted in increased cost of electricity generation with associated impacts in the retail electricity market.
Despite the current upward pressure on global energy prices, Northern Ireland remains one of the cheapest places to buy electricity for both domestic and business consumers. Typical domestic credit bills for gas customers are less than both the GB average and the standard tariff in Ireland. My Department continues to work with the Utility Regulator and the Consumer Council to ensure consumers are protected as much as possible through the regulated tariff regime for electricity and gas in Northern Ireland. The Consumer Council also has a free independent energy price comparison tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place.
One of the key objectives of my Department’s New Energy Strategy will be to ensure all consumers have access to affordable energy. We plan to achieve this vision by enabling consumers to be active participants in the energy market and by further protecting those who are unable or unwilling to participate actively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021669%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346859"}},{"id":"346858","reference":"AQW 21668/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-08","answerBy":"2021-07-27","answered":"2021-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of funding distributed by the Sports Sustainability Fund in each constituency.","answerText":"Sports Governing Bodies were required to apply for the Sports Sustainability Fund on behalf of themselves and their affiliated clubs. As such, 35 sport Governing Bodies received funding for their affiliated clubs and/or themselves totalling £23.01m. There were 452 individual beneficiaries of the Fund. These included 430 sports clubs.\n\nAs part of the agreed governance arrangements, Sport NI is currently working through a verification and vouching process which includes postcode checks. This process is currently ongoing and as such the amount of funds distributed by constituency is not yet available.\n\nI can advise that the detail of funding awarded to each governing body is provided on Sport NI’s website at http://www.sportni.net/funding/our-funding-programmes/sports-sustainability-fund/sports-sustainability-fund-awards-list/. Clicking the award amount, highlighted in green, will take you to a secondary webpage which lists the award each individual club affiliated to that governing body received.","answerHtml":"Sports Governing Bodies were required to apply for the Sports Sustainability Fund on behalf of themselves and their affiliated clubs. As such, 35 sport Governing Bodies received funding for their affiliated clubs and/or themselves totalling £23.01m. There were 452 individual beneficiaries of the Fund. These included 430 sports clubs.
As part of the agreed governance arrangements, Sport NI is currently working through a verification and vouching process which includes postcode checks. This process is currently ongoing and as such the amount of funds distributed by constituency is not yet available.
I can advise that the detail of funding awarded to each governing body is provided on Sport NI’s website at http://www.sportni.net/funding/our-funding-programmes/sports-sustainability-fund/sports-sustainability-fund-awards-list/. Clicking the award amount, highlighted in green, will take you to a secondary webpage which lists the award each individual club affiliated to that governing body received.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021668%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346858"}},{"id":"346659","reference":"AQW 21590/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-07","answerBy":"2021-07-26","answered":"2021-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the estimated number of additional residential properties that could be serviced by the planned Limavady wastewater improvements.","answerText":"The completion, subject to funding, of the three Limavady drainage area PC21 upgrade schemes should address most, if not all, of the existing catchment constraints. With a combined cost of around £4.7m the schemes are the catchment upgrades, the Bovally wastewater pumping station upgrade, and the Ballyclose Street combined sewer overflow/unsatisfactory intermittent discharges scheme.\n\nThe only limiting factor for residential development is the available headroom capacity at the receiving Limavady wastewater treatment works. NI Water has estimated, using NISRA household projection data and an allowance for non-domestic development, for example such as commercial, industrial and education, that approximately 1,200 domestic properties could be accommodated within the existing headroom capacity.","answerHtml":"The completion, subject to funding, of the three Limavady drainage area PC21 upgrade schemes should address most, if not all, of the existing catchment constraints. With a combined cost of around £4.7m the schemes are the catchment upgrades, the Bovally wastewater pumping station upgrade, and the Ballyclose Street combined sewer overflow/unsatisfactory intermittent discharges scheme.
The only limiting factor for residential development is the available headroom capacity at the receiving Limavady wastewater treatment works. NI Water has estimated, using NISRA household projection data and an allowance for non-domestic development, for example such as commercial, industrial and education, that approximately 1,200 domestic properties could be accommodated within the existing headroom capacity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021590%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346659"}},{"id":"346658","reference":"AQW 21589/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-07","answerBy":"2021-07-26","answered":"2021-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail whether laptops and other IT equipment distributed to pupils to address digital poverty are able to be accessed by the pupils (i) all year round; (ii) during term time; or (iii) during periods of working from home.","answerText":"I can advise schools have been informed that the devices received from the “Lending of Digital Devices Scheme” shall remain with them into the upcoming school year. This measure is to provide continuing support for learning to disadvantaged and vulnerable pupils. Additionally, within this provision there is a degree of flexibility given to principals to make decisions at a local level on the redistribution of devices returned by school leavers, to best meet vulnerable learners’ needs.\n\nA small contingency of devices has been retained in case of further lock down or to replace damaged devices.","answerHtml":"I can advise schools have been informed that the devices received from the “Lending of Digital Devices Scheme” shall remain with them into the upcoming school year. This measure is to provide continuing support for learning to disadvantaged and vulnerable pupils. Additionally, within this provision there is a degree of flexibility given to principals to make decisions at a local level on the redistribution of devices returned by school leavers, to best meet vulnerable learners’ needs.
A small contingency of devices has been retained in case of further lock down or to replace damaged devices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021589%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346658"}},{"id":"346657","reference":"AQW 21588/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-07","answerBy":"2021-07-26","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 20590/17-22, to detail (i) the process and stipulations involved in the Right to Buy scheme, including rules on the re-selling and rental of houses purchased under the scheme; and (ii) any plans she has to review this process.","answerText":"Housing Executive tenants wishing to purchase / lease their homes must have a minimum of five years as a secure tenant, with either:\n\nThe Housing Executive or\n\nA qualifying landlord\n\nWhere the secure tenancy is a joint tenancy, the qualifying period only has to be satisfied by one of the joint tenants. If the five year qualifying tenancy wholly or partially relates to a qualifying landlord, the applicant will need to provide proof of this tenancy before an application is processed. An applicant without the five year qualifying tenancy may be eligible to purchase where they:\n\nSucceeded to the tenancy or\n\nWere assigned the current tenancy and\n\nThese tenancies fulfilled the five year qualifying period.\n\nIntroductory tenants are not eligible to purchase until the completion of one year’s tenancy. Completion of the introductory period counts towards eligibility and discount.\n\nSquatters are not eligible to purchase/lease. Where a squatter is subsequently granted a legal tenancy discount entitlement in relation to that property is from the date on which the decision was taken to legalise their tenancy.\n\nSecure tenants are required to submit an application to purchase their property and must provide acceptable evidence of identification on application.\n\nA secure tenant of a house with five years completed tenancy (or equivalent) is entitled to a discount of 20% with an increase of 2% for each additional completed year’s tenancy up to a maximum of 60%. The maximum discount under the House Sales Scheme incorporating equity sharing is £24,000. The legal documentation contains a covenant binding on the secure tenant and their successors in title to repay to the Housing Executive the discount received if within a period of 5 years the dwelling is sold. Discount is not repayable where the dwelling is sold more than once during the 5 year period.\n\nThe purchaser must agree if they wish to dispose of the dwelling within 10 years from the date of purchase; that the Housing Executive or any registered housing association nominated by the Housing Executive will be given the option to re-purchase. If the option to purchase is not taken up by the Housing Executive or any registered housing association then the purchaser is entitled to sell the property to any willing buyer.\n\nThere are no restrictions which prevent a purchaser from privately renting a property sold to them under the House Sales Scheme.","answerHtml":"Housing Executive tenants wishing to purchase / lease their homes must have a minimum of five years as a secure tenant, with either:
The Housing Executive or
A qualifying landlord
Where the secure tenancy is a joint tenancy, the qualifying period only has to be satisfied by one of the joint tenants. If the five year qualifying tenancy wholly or partially relates to a qualifying landlord, the applicant will need to provide proof of this tenancy before an application is processed. An applicant without the five year qualifying tenancy may be eligible to purchase where they:
Succeeded to the tenancy or
Were assigned the current tenancy and
These tenancies fulfilled the five year qualifying period.
Introductory tenants are not eligible to purchase until the completion of one year’s tenancy. Completion of the introductory period counts towards eligibility and discount.
Squatters are not eligible to purchase/lease. Where a squatter is subsequently granted a legal tenancy discount entitlement in relation to that property is from the date on which the decision was taken to legalise their tenancy.
Secure tenants are required to submit an application to purchase their property and must provide acceptable evidence of identification on application.
A secure tenant of a house with five years completed tenancy (or equivalent) is entitled to a discount of 20% with an increase of 2% for each additional completed year’s tenancy up to a maximum of 60%. The maximum discount under the House Sales Scheme incorporating equity sharing is £24,000. The legal documentation contains a covenant binding on the secure tenant and their successors in title to repay to the Housing Executive the discount received if within a period of 5 years the dwelling is sold. Discount is not repayable where the dwelling is sold more than once during the 5 year period.
The purchaser must agree if they wish to dispose of the dwelling within 10 years from the date of purchase; that the Housing Executive or any registered housing association nominated by the Housing Executive will be given the option to re-purchase. If the option to purchase is not taken up by the Housing Executive or any registered housing association then the purchaser is entitled to sell the property to any willing buyer.
There are no restrictions which prevent a purchaser from privately renting a property sold to them under the House Sales Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021588%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346657"}},{"id":"346656","reference":"AQW 21587/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-07","answerBy":"2021-07-26","answered":"2021-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the amount of money that has been distributed by the Dormant Accounts scheme in each of the last five years, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Dormant Accounts Fund opened to applications in January 2021. To date there have been 35 awards in 11 of the 18 Devolved Administration Constituencies as detailed in Table 1.\n\nTable 1\n\nDevolved Administration Constituency\tNumber of Awards\tValue of Awards\nBelfast East\t7\t£ 573,501\nBelfast North\t6\t£ 362,425\nBelfast South\t6\t£ 559,931\nBelfast West\t4\t£ 304,982\nEast Antrim\t2\t£ 196,795\nEast Londonderry\t4\t£ 399,330\nFoyle\t1\t£ 76,000\nLagan Valley\t1\t£ 100,000\nNewry and Armagh\t1\t£ 39,561\nNorth Down\t2\t£ 192,153\nUpper Bann\t1\t£ 86,928\nTotals\t35\t£ 2,891,606","answerHtml":"The Dormant Accounts Fund opened to applications in January 2021. To date there have been 35 awards in 11 of the 18 Devolved Administration Constituencies as detailed in Table 1.
Table 1
| Devolved Administration Constituency | Number of Awards | Value of Awards |
| Belfast East | 7 | £ 573,501 |
| Belfast North | 6 | £ 362,425 |
| Belfast South | 6 | £ 559,931 |
| Belfast West | 4 | £ 304,982 |
| East Antrim | 2 | £ 196,795 |
| East Londonderry | 4 | £ 399,330 |
| Foyle | 1 | £ 76,000 |
| Lagan Valley | 1 | £ 100,000 |
| Newry and Armagh | 1 | £ 39,561 |
| North Down | 2 | £ 192,153 |
| Upper Bann | 1 | £ 86,928 |
| Totals | 35 | £ 2,891,606 |
I am not aware of any issues in this regard. My Department however has no role in the administering of Economic Operators Registration and Identification numbers and this is a matter for HMRC.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021586%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346655"}},{"id":"346493","reference":"AQW 21503/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-06","answerBy":"2021-07-23","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the social housing projects (i) under construction; and (ii) planned in East Londonderry.","answerText":"There are currently 126 new social housing units under construction in the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency. I have detailed these below in Table 1.\n\nA total of 141 units are currently programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2021/22 – 2023/24. I have provided details of these in Table 2 below.\n\nProgrammed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, for example, relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-shelf properties.\n\nTable 1: Social housing units under construction in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tStrategic Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3\tDungiven\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t18\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3\tDungiven\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tRural\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3A\tDungiven\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tRural\t1\t2020/21\t2022/23\nArk Housing\tRailway Road\tColeraine\tOff The Shelf\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t12\t2020/21\t2021/22\nChoice Housing\tThe Hill, Portstewart\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t9\t2020/21\t2022/23\nRadius Housing\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tCompetitive Design & Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t57\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius Housing\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tCompetitive Design & Build\tActive Elderly\tUrban\t12\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius Housing\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tCompetitive Design & Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t6\t2019/20\t2021/22\nTriangle Housing\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t4\t2020/21\t2022/23\nTriangle Housing\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2\tColeraine\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t3\t2020/21\t2022/23\n\nTable 2: Social housing units programmed to start 2021/22 – 2023/24 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tStrategic Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nHabinteg Housing\tParkers Avenue\tPortrush\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t1\t2021/22\t2022/23\nHabinteg Housing\tGlenmanus Road\tPortrush\tNew Build\tActive Elderly\tUrban\t12\t2021/22\t2022/23\nHabinteg Housing\tGlenmanus Road\tPortrush\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t3\t2021/22\t2022/23\nRural Housing\tBeech Road\tDrumsurn\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t2\t2021/22\t2022/23\nApex Housing\tCoastguard Road\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t6\t2022/23\t2023/24\nArk Housing\tBallaghmore Road\tPortballintrae\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t14\t2022/23\t2024/25\nChoice Housing\tKeely Gardens (T)\tAghadowey\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t4\t2022/23\t2023/24\nChoice Housing\tCaptain Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t31\t2022/23\t2024/25\nChoice Housing\tCaptain Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t4\t2022/23\t2024/25\nChoice Housing\tBeresford Avenue\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t50\t2022/23\t2024/25\nRural Housing\tClaudy\tClaudy\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t14\t2022/23\t2023/24","answerHtml":"There are currently 126 new social housing units under construction in the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency. I have detailed these below in Table 1.
A total of 141 units are currently programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2021/22 – 2023/24. I have provided details of these in Table 2 below.
Programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons, for example, relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval. Additional schemes can also be added to the SHDP ‘in-year’ through Competitive Design & Build procurement route and/or the purchase of Existing Satisfactory / Off-the-shelf properties.
Table 1: Social housing units under construction in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Strategic Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 | Dungiven | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 18 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 | Dungiven | New Build | Wheelchair | Rural | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3A | Dungiven | New Build | Wheelchair | Rural | 1 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Ark Housing | Railway Road | Coleraine | Off The Shelf | General Needs | Urban | 12 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Choice Housing | The Hill, Portstewart | Portstewart | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 9 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Radius Housing | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | Competitive Design & Build | General Needs | Urban | 57 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius Housing | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | Competitive Design & Build | Active Elderly | Urban | 12 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius Housing | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | Competitive Design & Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 6 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Triangle Housing | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 4 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Triangle Housing | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 | Coleraine | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 3 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
Table 2: Social housing units programmed to start 2021/22 – 2023/24 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Strategic Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Habinteg Housing | Parkers Avenue | Portrush | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 1 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Habinteg Housing | Glenmanus Road | Portrush | New Build | Active Elderly | Urban | 12 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Habinteg Housing | Glenmanus Road | Portrush | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 3 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Rural Housing | Beech Road | Drumsurn | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 2 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Apex Housing | Coastguard Road | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 6 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Ark Housing | Ballaghmore Road | Portballintrae | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 14 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
| Choice Housing | Keely Gardens (T) | Aghadowey | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 4 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
| Choice Housing | Captain Street | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 31 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
| Choice Housing | Captain Street | Coleraine | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 4 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
| Choice Housing | Beresford Avenue | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 50 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
| Rural Housing | Claudy | Claudy | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 14 | 2022/23 | 2023/24 |
The Department for Communities has responsibility for the Shops (Sunday Trading &c.) Order 1997 which governs Sunday trading. This allows small shops unrestricted opening on Sundays while large shops (ie those with a floor area exceeding 280 square metres) are restricted to opening for a maximum of 5 hours between 1pm and 6pm. Certain large shops are exempt from these restrictions and large shops in areas designated as holiday resorts (by district councils) may open at any time on up to 18 Sundays (other than Easter Sunday) between 1 March and 30 September in any calendar year.
Any change to these provisions would require legislation and there are no plans to introduce any such change at present.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021502%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346492"}},{"id":"346491","reference":"AQW 21501/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-06","answerBy":"2021-07-23","answered":"2022-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for his assessment of the future tourism opportunities on the north coast; and (ii) the projects his Department has been involved in developing in this area.","answerText":"Tourism NI has a close working relationship with each of the eleven local authorities across Northern Ireland, including Causeway Coast & Glens (CC&G) council, and are meeting regularly with those councils to discuss areas such as Covid Recovery Plans, Business Support and key local tourism projects. Understandably, the Covid 19 pandemic has had a hugely negative impact on tourism in the CC&G area, and indeed across all parts of Northern Ireland, but it has established significant market growth and brand recognition over several years.\n\nIn November 2019, Tourism NI launched its new Experience Brand, Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit, which features a number of visitor experiences in the CC&G area including Whiskey on the Rocks, Beyond the Bridge and Catch & Sea. Tourism NI will continue to work in partnership with CC&G to develop further visitor experiences in the area so they can meet the expectations of both domestic and international visitors in the months and years ahead - many of these are anchored in the natural landscape and coastlines. The area also boasts several Game of Thrones based visitor experiences, which have been extremely popular in recent years and leave a lasting screen tourism legacy from this internationally renowned TV series.\n\nThere has been ongoing business activity in the Causeway Coastal Route area in relation to business collaboration working that includes the tourism private sector, public sector and voluntary sector. A number of formal tourism cluster groups have been operating for a number of years now under the Invest NI’s Collaborative Growth Programme. Tourism NI and CC&G council are supportive of these independently facilitated cluster groups, namely the Causeway Coast, Limavady / Binevenagh and Taste Causeway in terms of industry and business support provision.\n\nRecent Tourism NI led Consumer Sentiment Analysis has indicated that rural and outdoor based destinations were popular in 2020 and 2021 post-lockdown and that prospective visitors will favour these destination attributes in the short-medium term going forward. The CC&G’s abundance of visitor experiences based on these key elements should place it in a strong position in the post-recovery phase.\n\nThere are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CC&G council on their Regional Growth Deal, to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle, to ensure that investment in tourism is aligned to TNI’s key objectives.\n\nIn August 2020, Tourism NI launched a new Experience Development Programme capital funding scheme, as part of the Tourism Recovery Action Plan, to financially support tourism providers in creating experiences that reflect the new tourism brand and stimulate demand for local tourism. Several projects in the CC&G area were successful, including Broighter Gold and Aquaholics, in receiving collectively over £500k of financial assistance. In addition, as part of a Website Development funding programme that Tourism NI also launched in 2020, several projects in the CC&G area were also successful, Causeway Coast Foodie Tours and Old Bushmills, in receiving collectively over £40k of financial assistance. Both of these programmes are running again in 2021, and several tourism providers from the North Coast area have applied. Applications are currently undergoing assessment.\n\nTourism NI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025, including engagement with councils and the business community to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. This will build on the successful model deployed in 2019, including industry workshops, toolkits, a dressing and animation programme and customer service excellence training initiatives.\n\nIn Oct 2021, Tourism NI awarded CC&G council with £293k financial assistance as part of a new Market Led Product Development funding programme to build the strength of the N. Ireland experience brand, aligning with core segments, and have the potential to maximise demand in future years. CC&G’s successful application aims to develop a number of new events and initiatives including Slow Food Banquets and Unique Dining Experiences.\n\nTourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CC&G council, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects on the North Coast in this strategically important area of N. Ireland.","answerHtml":"Tourism NI has a close working relationship with each of the eleven local authorities across Northern Ireland, including Causeway Coast & Glens (CC&G) council, and are meeting regularly with those councils to discuss areas such as Covid Recovery Plans, Business Support and key local tourism projects. Understandably, the Covid 19 pandemic has had a hugely negative impact on tourism in the CC&G area, and indeed across all parts of Northern Ireland, but it has established significant market growth and brand recognition over several years.
In November 2019, Tourism NI launched its new Experience Brand, Northern Ireland - Embrace a Giant Spirit, which features a number of visitor experiences in the CC&G area including Whiskey on the Rocks, Beyond the Bridge and Catch & Sea. Tourism NI will continue to work in partnership with CC&G to develop further visitor experiences in the area so they can meet the expectations of both domestic and international visitors in the months and years ahead - many of these are anchored in the natural landscape and coastlines. The area also boasts several Game of Thrones based visitor experiences, which have been extremely popular in recent years and leave a lasting screen tourism legacy from this internationally renowned TV series.
There has been ongoing business activity in the Causeway Coastal Route area in relation to business collaboration working that includes the tourism private sector, public sector and voluntary sector. A number of formal tourism cluster groups have been operating for a number of years now under the Invest NI’s Collaborative Growth Programme. Tourism NI and CC&G council are supportive of these independently facilitated cluster groups, namely the Causeway Coast, Limavady / Binevenagh and Taste Causeway in terms of industry and business support provision.
Recent Tourism NI led Consumer Sentiment Analysis has indicated that rural and outdoor based destinations were popular in 2020 and 2021 post-lockdown and that prospective visitors will favour these destination attributes in the short-medium term going forward. The CC&G’s abundance of visitor experiences based on these key elements should place it in a strong position in the post-recovery phase.
There are significant opportunities that exist around CC&G’s role as part of the £72m Causeway Coast & Glens Regional Growth Deal, meaning that further investment in the area as an already successful tourism destination is being considered. Tourism NI is working closely with CC&G council on their Regional Growth Deal, to help to market test and develop projects such as Dunluce Castle, to ensure that investment in tourism is aligned to TNI’s key objectives.
In August 2020, Tourism NI launched a new Experience Development Programme capital funding scheme, as part of the Tourism Recovery Action Plan, to financially support tourism providers in creating experiences that reflect the new tourism brand and stimulate demand for local tourism. Several projects in the CC&G area were successful, including Broighter Gold and Aquaholics, in receiving collectively over £500k of financial assistance. In addition, as part of a Website Development funding programme that Tourism NI also launched in 2020, several projects in the CC&G area were also successful, Causeway Coast Foodie Tours and Old Bushmills, in receiving collectively over £40k of financial assistance. Both of these programmes are running again in 2021, and several tourism providers from the North Coast area have applied. Applications are currently undergoing assessment.
Tourism NI will once again work closely with key partners to plan for and support delivery of the 153rd Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2025, including engagement with councils and the business community to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament. This will build on the successful model deployed in 2019, including industry workshops, toolkits, a dressing and animation programme and customer service excellence training initiatives.
In Oct 2021, Tourism NI awarded CC&G council with £293k financial assistance as part of a new Market Led Product Development funding programme to build the strength of the N. Ireland experience brand, aligning with core segments, and have the potential to maximise demand in future years. CC&G’s successful application aims to develop a number of new events and initiatives including Slow Food Banquets and Unique Dining Experiences.
Tourism NI will continue to work closely with colleagues in CC&G council, as well as other stakeholders in the area, to identify and develop tourism projects on the North Coast in this strategically important area of N. Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021501%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346491"}},{"id":"346490","reference":"AQW 21500/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-06","answerBy":"2021-07-23","answered":"2021-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the school infrastructure projects (i) currently underway; and (ii) planned in East Londonderry.","answerText":"There are currently 4 School Enhancement projects (SEP’s), 2 Major Capital projects, 3 Fresh Start projects underway in the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nIn addition, 46 schools have minor works planned or in progress.\n\nThe table below details the SEP’s, major works and Fresh Start projects. The schools receiving minor works are listed below the table.\n\nSchool Enhancement Projects\nName of School\tUnderway\tPlanned\tCurrent Position\nColeraine Grammar School, Coleraine\tNew build extension and refurbishment to bring the school on to one site on the Castlerock Road.\t\tDesign Team appointed December 2019 and currently progressing Stage 3 (Developed Design).\nSandelford School, Coleraine\tExtension to existing building and internal refurbishment.\t\tDesign Team appointed August 2019 with Technical Feasibility Report (FR) completed for Business Case (BC) preparation and approval.\nDominican College, Portstewart\tConstruction of a new accommodation block.\t\tDesign Team appointed January 2021 and currently progressing Stage 1 (Preparation and Brief).\nSt Patrick’s & St Brigid’s College, Claudy\tConstruction of a new sports block, internal refurbishment and a new 3G pitch.\t\tDesign Team appointed January 2021 and currently progressing Stage 2 (Concept Design).\nMajor Capital Projects\nName of School\tUnderway\tPlanned\tCurrent Position\nRossmar Special School, Limavady\tNew build on current site at Ballyquin Road.\t\tMain school building handed over March 2021. Demolition and site works due to complete September 2021.\nOur Lady of Fatima Primary School, Tamnaherin\tNew build, six classroom school on a greenfield site at Tamnaherin.\t\tCurrently out to tender for construction, tenders due for return mid-August.\nFresh Start Projects\nName of School\tUnderway\tPlanned\tCurrent Position\nLimavady Shared Education Campus, Limavady\tNew Build approved in November 2016 to provide shared STEM facilities on the Limavady High School site and shared 6th Form accommodation on the St Mary’s site.\t\tConstruction commenced on site in spring 2021.\nRoe Valley Integrated Primary School, Limavady\tA New Build 7 class base build school on a new site at the junction of Ballyquin Rd and Roemill Rd, Limavady.\t\tIt is currently anticipated that construction will commence in autumn 2021.\nMill Strand Integrated Primary School, Portrush\tA new 14 class base build school and Double Nursery unit at the former Catering College site in Portrush.\nThe procurement of the design and build contractor is about to commence.\t\tSubject to planning approval being granted, it is currently anticipated that construction will commence around summer 2022.\n\nKeyFR Feasibility Report\n\nBC Business case\n\nIn addition Minor Works projects are planned or are progressing at the following schools:\n\nLimavady Grammar School, Limavady;\n\nCulcrow Primary School, Aghadowey;\n\nCastleroe Primary School, Coleraine;\n\nMillstrand Integrated Primary School, Portrush;\n\nBallykelly Primary School, Ballykelly, Limavady;\n\nBallysally Primary School, Coleraine;\n\nHezlett Primary School, Castlerock;\n\nCumber Claudy Primary School, Claudy;\n\nSt Colmcille's Primary School, Claudy;\n\nLimavady Central Primary School, Limavady;\n\nSt Canice's Primary School, Feeny, Londonderry;\n\nCarhill Integrated Primary School, Garvagh, Coleraine;\n\nGarvagh Primary School, Garvagh, Coleraine;\n\nSt Finlough's Primary School, Sistrakeel, Ballykelly;\n\nFaughanvale Primary School, Greysteel, Londeonderry;\n\nMacosquin Primary School, Macosquin, Coleraine;\n\nIrish Society's Primary School, Mountsandel, Coleraine;\n\nSt Malachy’s Primary School, Coleraine;\n\nDrumachose Primary School, Limavady;\n\nPortstewart Primary School, Portstewart ;\n\nGorran Primary School, Blackhill, Coleraine;\n\nPortrush Primary School, Portrush;\n\nDrumrane Primary School, Dungiven;\n\nSt John's Primary School Dernaflaw, Dungiven;\n\nMillburn Primary School, Coleraine;\n\nD H Christie Memorial Primary School, Coleraine;\n\nGaelcholáiste Dhoire, Dungiven;\n\nLimavady High School, Limavady;\n\nSt Patrick's College, Dungiven;\n\nColeraine College, Coleraine;\n\nSandelford Special School, Coleraine;\n\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Claudy;\n\nFaughanval Primary School, Greysteel, Eglinton;\n\nSt Aidan's Primary School, Limavady;\n\nSt Canice's Primary School, Dungiven;\n\nGaelscoil Leim an Mhaidaidh, Limavady;\n\nSt Mary's Secondary School, Limvady;\n\nSt. Patrick's Primary School, Portrush;\n\nSt Columba's Primary School, Garvagh;\n\nSt Colum's Primary School, Portstewart;\n\nSt Malachy's Primary School, Coleraine;\n\nNorth Coast Integrated College, Coleraine;\n\nLoreto College, Coleraine;\n\nColeraine Grammar School, Coleraine;\n\nSt Patrick's and St Brigid's College, Claudy; and\n\nSt Patrick's College, Dungiven.","answerHtml":"There are currently 4 School Enhancement projects (SEP’s), 2 Major Capital projects, 3 Fresh Start projects underway in the East Londonderry constituency.
In addition, 46 schools have minor works planned or in progress.
The table below details the SEP’s, major works and Fresh Start projects. The schools receiving minor works are listed below the table.
| School Enhancement Projects | |||
| Name of School | Underway | Planned | Current Position |
| Coleraine Grammar School, Coleraine | New build extension and refurbishment to bring the school on to one site on the Castlerock Road. | Design Team appointed December 2019 and currently progressing Stage 3 (Developed Design). | |
| Sandelford School, Coleraine | Extension to existing building and internal refurbishment. | Design Team appointed August 2019 with Technical Feasibility Report (FR) completed for Business Case (BC) preparation and approval. | |
| Dominican College, Portstewart | Construction of a new accommodation block. | Design Team appointed January 2021 and currently progressing Stage 1 (Preparation and Brief). | |
| St Patrick’s & St Brigid’s College, Claudy | Construction of a new sports block, internal refurbishment and a new 3G pitch. | Design Team appointed January 2021 and currently progressing Stage 2 (Concept Design). | |
| Major Capital Projects | |||
| Name of School | Underway | Planned | Current Position |
| Rossmar Special School, Limavady | New build on current site at Ballyquin Road. | Main school building handed over March 2021. Demolition and site works due to complete September 2021. | |
| Our Lady of Fatima Primary School, Tamnaherin | New build, six classroom school on a greenfield site at Tamnaherin. | Currently out to tender for construction, tenders due for return mid-August. | |
| Fresh Start Projects | |||
| Name of School | Underway | Planned | Current Position |
| Limavady Shared Education Campus, Limavady | New Build approved in November 2016 to provide shared STEM facilities on the Limavady High School site and shared 6th Form accommodation on the St Mary’s site. | Construction commenced on site in spring 2021. | |
| Roe Valley Integrated Primary School, Limavady | A New Build 7 class base build school on a new site at the junction of Ballyquin Rd and Roemill Rd, Limavady. | It is currently anticipated that construction will commence in autumn 2021. | |
| Mill Strand Integrated Primary School, Portrush | A new 14 class base build school and Double Nursery unit at the former Catering College site in Portrush. The procurement of the design and build contractor is about to commence. | Subject to planning approval being granted, it is currently anticipated that construction will commence around summer 2022. |
KeyFR Feasibility Report
BC Business case
In addition Minor Works projects are planned or are progressing at the following schools:
Limavady Grammar School, Limavady;
Culcrow Primary School, Aghadowey;
Castleroe Primary School, Coleraine;
Millstrand Integrated Primary School, Portrush;
Ballykelly Primary School, Ballykelly, Limavady;
Ballysally Primary School, Coleraine;
Hezlett Primary School, Castlerock;
Cumber Claudy Primary School, Claudy;
St Colmcille's Primary School, Claudy;
Limavady Central Primary School, Limavady;
St Canice's Primary School, Feeny, Londonderry;
Carhill Integrated Primary School, Garvagh, Coleraine;
Garvagh Primary School, Garvagh, Coleraine;
St Finlough's Primary School, Sistrakeel, Ballykelly;
Faughanvale Primary School, Greysteel, Londeonderry;
Macosquin Primary School, Macosquin, Coleraine;
Irish Society's Primary School, Mountsandel, Coleraine;
St Malachy’s Primary School, Coleraine;
Drumachose Primary School, Limavady;
Portstewart Primary School, Portstewart ;
Gorran Primary School, Blackhill, Coleraine;
Portrush Primary School, Portrush;
Drumrane Primary School, Dungiven;
St John's Primary School Dernaflaw, Dungiven;
Millburn Primary School, Coleraine;
D H Christie Memorial Primary School, Coleraine;
Gaelcholáiste Dhoire, Dungiven;
Limavady High School, Limavady;
St Patrick's College, Dungiven;
Coleraine College, Coleraine;
Sandelford Special School, Coleraine;
St Mary’s Primary School, Claudy;
Faughanval Primary School, Greysteel, Eglinton;
St Aidan's Primary School, Limavady;
St Canice's Primary School, Dungiven;
Gaelscoil Leim an Mhaidaidh, Limavady;
St Mary's Secondary School, Limvady;
St. Patrick's Primary School, Portrush;
St Columba's Primary School, Garvagh;
St Colum's Primary School, Portstewart;
St Malachy's Primary School, Coleraine;
North Coast Integrated College, Coleraine;
Loreto College, Coleraine;
Coleraine Grammar School, Coleraine;
St Patrick's and St Brigid's College, Claudy; and
St Patrick's College, Dungiven.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021500%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346490"}},{"id":"346489","reference":"AQW 21499/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-06","answerBy":"2021-07-23","answered":"2021-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the ring-fenced funded projects for 2021/22 in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Ring fenced funding is funding agreed by the Executive for a specific purpose which cannot be used to meet other departmental pressures. The only ring-fenced budgets allocated to DfI during 2021-22 are: Flagships; COVID funding (£9.2m to NIW and £31m for lost income); in-year allocation to NIW (£12.5m); and Rural Travel (£400k). Therefore the only ring-fenced funding which will benefit Derry relates to the A6.\n\nAlthough not ring-fenced but within the remit of my budget decisions, there are a number of capital infrastructure schemes which will be progressing in Derry during 2021-22. This includes Water Treatment and Waste Water Enhancement Works and Rail and Bus projects including the construction of a bridge, to enable the closure of four User Worked Crossings, work on the Coleraine to Derry line and other refurbishment/improvement works. The Ballymoney to Coleraine Re-Railing, Eglinton Passing Loop and Coleraine to Derry Phase 3 projects will continue to be progressed and funding has also been provided for a feasibility study for Zero Emission buses in Foyle Metro and Coleraine.\n\nRoads and Rivers will be undertaking maintenance and development of our road and river infrastructure assets which geographically fall into the Derry Assembly constituency. My Departmental officials will be meeting with councillors in Derry and Strabane District Council and Causeway Coast and Glens District Council to detail plans in those Council areas, following which information will be made available on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"Ring fenced funding is funding agreed by the Executive for a specific purpose which cannot be used to meet other departmental pressures. The only ring-fenced budgets allocated to DfI during 2021-22 are: Flagships; COVID funding (£9.2m to NIW and £31m for lost income); in-year allocation to NIW (£12.5m); and Rural Travel (£400k). Therefore the only ring-fenced funding which will benefit Derry relates to the A6.
Although not ring-fenced but within the remit of my budget decisions, there are a number of capital infrastructure schemes which will be progressing in Derry during 2021-22. This includes Water Treatment and Waste Water Enhancement Works and Rail and Bus projects including the construction of a bridge, to enable the closure of four User Worked Crossings, work on the Coleraine to Derry line and other refurbishment/improvement works. The Ballymoney to Coleraine Re-Railing, Eglinton Passing Loop and Coleraine to Derry Phase 3 projects will continue to be progressed and funding has also been provided for a feasibility study for Zero Emission buses in Foyle Metro and Coleraine.
Roads and Rivers will be undertaking maintenance and development of our road and river infrastructure assets which geographically fall into the Derry Assembly constituency. My Departmental officials will be meeting with councillors in Derry and Strabane District Council and Causeway Coast and Glens District Council to detail plans in those Council areas, following which information will be made available on the Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021499%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346489"}},{"id":"346256","reference":"AQW 21421/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-08","answered":"2021-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the rules under which live music performances are able to take place, including the permitted volume, required distances and performer numbers.","answerText":"Detail of the current legal restrictions can be found in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations 2021 and its amendments.\n\nFrom 5 July 2021 live music performance is permitted in a business or a members’ club which sells or provides food or drink (whether or not including intoxicating liquor) for consumption on the premises. That regulation applies to hospitality venues and requires that music performance must be restrained to a volume that permits conversation at normal levels of speech – what is referred to as “ambient level”. Suitable mitigations should also be put in place.\n\nLive music performance is permitted, without restriction on volume, at outdoor events which meet the requirements set out in regulations.\n\nLive music practice, rehearsal and performance without restriction on volume is also permitted in venues, outdoors or indoors, other than the hospitality premises referred to above.\n\nThere are no fixed limits on the maximum size of gatherings either indoors or outdoors or on the maximum numbers of performers. The determination of capacity of a venue or at an activity is based on a risk assessment which must be undertaken by organiser of the event or gathering.\n\nThe position in terms of social distancing is also established in the regulations and organisers should ensure that the approach adopted is appropriate to the nature of the venue for the event or activity.\n\nIt is the responsibility of event organisers to satisfy themselves that their activities meet the requirements of the law and guidance.\n\nGuidance can be found in the Arts Council’s “In the Bubble of Our Making: Reopening the Arts in Northern Ireland”: In-the-Bubble-of-Our-Making-Reopening-the-Arts-in-Northern-Ireland-July-2020.pdf (artscouncil-ni.org)","answerHtml":"Detail of the current legal restrictions can be found in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations 2021 and its amendments.
From 5 July 2021 live music performance is permitted in a business or a members’ club which sells or provides food or drink (whether or not including intoxicating liquor) for consumption on the premises. That regulation applies to hospitality venues and requires that music performance must be restrained to a volume that permits conversation at normal levels of speech – what is referred to as “ambient level”. Suitable mitigations should also be put in place.
Live music performance is permitted, without restriction on volume, at outdoor events which meet the requirements set out in regulations.
Live music practice, rehearsal and performance without restriction on volume is also permitted in venues, outdoors or indoors, other than the hospitality premises referred to above.
There are no fixed limits on the maximum size of gatherings either indoors or outdoors or on the maximum numbers of performers. The determination of capacity of a venue or at an activity is based on a risk assessment which must be undertaken by organiser of the event or gathering.
The position in terms of social distancing is also established in the regulations and organisers should ensure that the approach adopted is appropriate to the nature of the venue for the event or activity.
It is the responsibility of event organisers to satisfy themselves that their activities meet the requirements of the law and guidance.
Guidance can be found in the Arts Council’s “In the Bubble of Our Making: Reopening the Arts in Northern Ireland”: In-the-Bubble-of-Our-Making-Reopening-the-Arts-in-Northern-Ireland-July-2020.pdf (artscouncil-ni.org)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021421%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346256"}},{"id":"346255","reference":"AQW 21420/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the advice for patients wishing to seek medical treatment in the Republic of Ireland, including the required information and the process by which patients can avail of this treatment; and what the requirements are for unplanned healthcare such as accident and emergency treatment.","answerText":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme, which I announced on 15th June 2021, has been introduced for a 12 month period from 30th June 2021.\n\nThe Scheme allows patients to seek, and pay for, private treatment in the Republic of Ireland only and have the cost reimbursed by the Health and Social Care Board. The amount of reimbursement will be limited to the cost that would have been incurred by health and social care in Northern Ireland if the same or an equivalent service had been provided here.\n\nTo use the Scheme, patients must get prior authorisation from the HSCB before they travel for treatment.\n\nFull details and guidance on the Scheme are available on the Health and Social Care Board website at\n\nhttp://www.hscboard.hscni.net/travelfortreatment/.\n\nUnder the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)/Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) scheme Northern Ireland residents can access medically necessary, state provided healthcare while on a temporary stay in the Republic of Ireland.\n\nHowever, under the Common Travel Area arrangement, an EHIC/GHIC is not necessarily required if evidence of residence in Northern Ireland is provided.\n\nIt is advisable that people take out travel insurance which covers healthcare costs when travelling to EU Member States, including the Republic of Ireland – as reciprocal healthcare arrangements may not cover all healthcare costs that might arise when travelling.","answerHtml":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme, which I announced on 15th June 2021, has been introduced for a 12 month period from 30th June 2021.
The Scheme allows patients to seek, and pay for, private treatment in the Republic of Ireland only and have the cost reimbursed by the Health and Social Care Board. The amount of reimbursement will be limited to the cost that would have been incurred by health and social care in Northern Ireland if the same or an equivalent service had been provided here.
To use the Scheme, patients must get prior authorisation from the HSCB before they travel for treatment.
Full details and guidance on the Scheme are available on the Health and Social Care Board website at
http://www.hscboard.hscni.net/travelfortreatment/.
Under the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC)/Global Health Insurance Card (GHIC) scheme Northern Ireland residents can access medically necessary, state provided healthcare while on a temporary stay in the Republic of Ireland.
However, under the Common Travel Area arrangement, an EHIC/GHIC is not necessarily required if evidence of residence in Northern Ireland is provided.
It is advisable that people take out travel insurance which covers healthcare costs when travelling to EU Member States, including the Republic of Ireland – as reciprocal healthcare arrangements may not cover all healthcare costs that might arise when travelling.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021420%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346255"}},{"id":"346254","reference":"AQW 21419/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the percentage of 18-30-year-olds that have received (i) their first dose; and (ii) both doses of a COVID-19 vaccination, in each constituency.","answerText":"The member will be aware that aggregated regional figures for this age group are publicly available on the COVID-19 dashboard:\n\nNI Covid-19 Vaccinations Dashboard - COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Northern Ireland (hscni.net)\n\nWhile these figures are not disaggregated by constituency, information on vaccination rates by postcode are available at page 9 of the COVID-19 dashboard.","answerHtml":"The member will be aware that aggregated regional figures for this age group are publicly available on the COVID-19 dashboard:
NI Covid-19 Vaccinations Dashboard - COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Northern Ireland (hscni.net)
While these figures are not disaggregated by constituency, information on vaccination rates by postcode are available at page 9 of the COVID-19 dashboard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021419%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346254","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346254"}},{"id":"346253","reference":"AQW 21418/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail her plans for extending the 12-week COVID-19 protection for tenants in private rented accommodation beyond 30 September 2021.","answerText":"When extending the emergency period for landlords to provide 12 weeks’ notice to quit from the end of March 2021 to 30 September 2021, I advised that the regulations would be reviewed in the summer.","answerHtml":"When extending the emergency period for landlords to provide 12 weeks’ notice to quit from the end of March 2021 to 30 September 2021, I advised that the regulations would be reviewed in the summer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021418%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346253","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346253"}},{"id":"346252","reference":"AQW 21417/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-05","answerBy":"2021-07-22","answered":"2021-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his Department’s policy on working with charitable and community organisations in providing mental health support.","answerText":"The Department is fully committed to co-production in the development of mental health policy. This includes involvement of the Community and Voluntary sector and the sector is represented on all strategic groups where the Department has involvement. Our local charity sector provides important and vital mental health support services to many in our communities. It is important that those services are maintained, particularly during these challenging times.\n\nIn April 2021 I announced a new £10m Mental Health Support Fund to equip and enable community and voluntary organisations with charitable purposes in providing a wide range of support services for people with mental ill health and to help ensure that those who need to can continue to access mental health support services in the community. The Fund formally opened to applications on 5 July and I expect that the first tranche of funds will be available in October 2021.","answerHtml":"The Department is fully committed to co-production in the development of mental health policy. This includes involvement of the Community and Voluntary sector and the sector is represented on all strategic groups where the Department has involvement. Our local charity sector provides important and vital mental health support services to many in our communities. It is important that those services are maintained, particularly during these challenging times.
In April 2021 I announced a new £10m Mental Health Support Fund to equip and enable community and voluntary organisations with charitable purposes in providing a wide range of support services for people with mental ill health and to help ensure that those who need to can continue to access mental health support services in the community. The Fund formally opened to applications on 5 July and I expect that the first tranche of funds will be available in October 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021417%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346252","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346252"}},{"id":"346096","reference":"AQW 21338/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-09-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why, according to the advice given on NI Direct, pre-departure COVID-19 tests are required from children aged 11 years and above who are entering Northern Ireland, while post-arrival tests are required from children five years and older.","answerText":"The testing requirements for arrivals into Northern Ireland who have been outside the Common Travel Area (UK, ROI, Isle of Man and Channel Islands) in the previous 10 days are laid down in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, International Travel) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021.\n\nFurther information on testing requirements is available on NI Direct at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice\n\nThe international travel testing policy implemented in Northern Ireland is in line with that in UK Government. The policy decisions on testing, including age requirements, were based on public health advice in relation to the purpose of that particular testing regime.","answerHtml":"The testing requirements for arrivals into Northern Ireland who have been outside the Common Travel Area (UK, ROI, Isle of Man and Channel Islands) in the previous 10 days are laid down in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, International Travel) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021.
Further information on testing requirements is available on NI Direct at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice
The international travel testing policy implemented in Northern Ireland is in line with that in UK Government. The policy decisions on testing, including age requirements, were based on public health advice in relation to the purpose of that particular testing regime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021338%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346096"}},{"id":"346095","reference":"AQW 21337/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline any plans he has to bring Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the UK by allowing self-isolation to end for a person that provides a negative COVID-19 test on the fifth day after re-entering Northern Ireland from abroad.","answerText":"The test and release scheme is a voluntary UK Government initiative in England whereby those who arrive from an amber list country can choose to pay for a private COVID-19 test on day 5, and end their period of self-isolation early if the test is negative.\n\nNeither the NI, Scottish nor Welsh Governments have introduced a similar provision. In all other regions a full 10 day period of self-isolation is required unless exempt.\n\nThere are no plans at present to introduce such as scheme in Northern Ireland and the evidence supports a full 10 day’s isolation period. Recent provisions which remove the need for travellers fully vaccinated in the UK from the need to self-isolate on arrival from amber countries will undoubtedly assist travellers to NI from amber countries.","answerHtml":"The test and release scheme is a voluntary UK Government initiative in England whereby those who arrive from an amber list country can choose to pay for a private COVID-19 test on day 5, and end their period of self-isolation early if the test is negative.
Neither the NI, Scottish nor Welsh Governments have introduced a similar provision. In all other regions a full 10 day period of self-isolation is required unless exempt.
There are no plans at present to introduce such as scheme in Northern Ireland and the evidence supports a full 10 day’s isolation period. Recent provisions which remove the need for travellers fully vaccinated in the UK from the need to self-isolate on arrival from amber countries will undoubtedly assist travellers to NI from amber countries.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021337%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346095"}},{"id":"346094","reference":"AQW 21336/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline (i) the role of Everun in providing electric vehicle charge points in Northern Ireland; and (ii) the input that her Department has had in this role.","answerText":"Funding to support the early market for ultra-low emission vehicles is available from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) which provides a range of e-car related grants towards the purchase of electric vehicles including home and workplace charge points. My officials work closely with OZEV to monitor the range of e-car related grants and provide advice and guidance to support the transition to zero emissions.\n\nOZEV has added this company to its lists of authorised installers for both the electric vehicle Homecharge Scheme and Workplace Charging Scheme. A successful application to OZEV under either scheme ensures that the applicant must then use a charge point installer from OZEV’s authorised lists to avail of these grants. There are a number of companies in Northern Ireland listed as authorised installers for both of these OZEV charge point schemes.\n\nThe OZEV website can be viewed, via the following links, where details of the electric vehicle Homecharge Scheme and Workplace Charging Scheme and the two lists of OZEV authorised installers can be found:\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/customer-guidance-electric-vehicle-homecharge-scheme\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/workplace-charging-scheme-guidance-for-applicants-installers-and-manufacturers\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electric-vehicle-homecharge-scheme-authorised-installers\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/workplace-charging-scheme-authorised-installers\n\nI am committed to supporting the transition to electric vehicles as part of wider transport decarbonisation work and to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"Funding to support the early market for ultra-low emission vehicles is available from the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) which provides a range of e-car related grants towards the purchase of electric vehicles including home and workplace charge points. My officials work closely with OZEV to monitor the range of e-car related grants and provide advice and guidance to support the transition to zero emissions.
OZEV has added this company to its lists of authorised installers for both the electric vehicle Homecharge Scheme and Workplace Charging Scheme. A successful application to OZEV under either scheme ensures that the applicant must then use a charge point installer from OZEV’s authorised lists to avail of these grants. There are a number of companies in Northern Ireland listed as authorised installers for both of these OZEV charge point schemes.
The OZEV website can be viewed, via the following links, where details of the electric vehicle Homecharge Scheme and Workplace Charging Scheme and the two lists of OZEV authorised installers can be found:
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/customer-guidance-electric-vehicle-homecharge-scheme
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/workplace-charging-scheme-guidance-for-applicants-installers-and-manufacturers
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electric-vehicle-homecharge-scheme-authorised-installers
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/workplace-charging-scheme-authorised-installers
I am committed to supporting the transition to electric vehicles as part of wider transport decarbonisation work and to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021336%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346094"}},{"id":"346093","reference":"AQW 21335/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-08-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the benefits of the Personal Independence Payment system, relative to its predecessor, the Disability Living Allowance.","answerText":"Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was developed in DWP from early 2010.\n\nThe stated policy behind PIP is to provide support to individuals experiencing barriers to living an independent life. It moved away from automatic entitlement for certain conditions.\n\nPIP is paid to help with the extra costs associated with a long-term health condition or disability and is a non-contributory, non means-tested and tax-free benefit and it is payable regardless of employment status.\n\nEntitlement to PIP is not based on an individual’s condition, but on how the person is affected by it.","answerHtml":"Personal Independence Payment (PIP) was developed in DWP from early 2010.
The stated policy behind PIP is to provide support to individuals experiencing barriers to living an independent life. It moved away from automatic entitlement for certain conditions.
PIP is paid to help with the extra costs associated with a long-term health condition or disability and is a non-contributory, non means-tested and tax-free benefit and it is payable regardless of employment status.
Entitlement to PIP is not based on an individual’s condition, but on how the person is affected by it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021335%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346093"}},{"id":"346092","reference":"AQW 21334/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-02","answerBy":"2021-07-21","answered":"2021-08-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his Department’s policy on reviewing the work of consultants employed by Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"Revalidation is an evaluation of a doctor’s fitness to practice. Every licensed doctor who practises medicine must revalidate. Revalidation supports the doctor to develop their practice, drives improvements in clinical governance and gives our patients confidence that our doctors are up to date with their practice. The annual appraisal has the GMC’s ‘Good Medical Practice’ as its focus and covers all of the doctor’s medical practice.\n\nHSC Trusts implement the General Medical Council (Licence to Practise and Revalidation) Regulations 2012. Under these regulations Trusts must set up processes and procedures to support and facilitate consultant appraisal and revalidation. This carried out in accordance with the GMC guidance: Supporting Information for Appraisal and Revalidation and Good Medical Practice Framework for Appraisal and Revalidation.","answerHtml":"Revalidation is an evaluation of a doctor’s fitness to practice. Every licensed doctor who practises medicine must revalidate. Revalidation supports the doctor to develop their practice, drives improvements in clinical governance and gives our patients confidence that our doctors are up to date with their practice. The annual appraisal has the GMC’s ‘Good Medical Practice’ as its focus and covers all of the doctor’s medical practice.
HSC Trusts implement the General Medical Council (Licence to Practise and Revalidation) Regulations 2012. Under these regulations Trusts must set up processes and procedures to support and facilitate consultant appraisal and revalidation. This carried out in accordance with the GMC guidance: Supporting Information for Appraisal and Revalidation and Good Medical Practice Framework for Appraisal and Revalidation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021334%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=346092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=346092"}},{"id":"345995","reference":"AQW 21271/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-01","answerBy":"2021-07-20","answered":"2021-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, of the recently announced £344.5m earmarked for water and sewerage works, to detail (i) how much will be spent on the Limavady sewerage upgrade; and (ii) what works this spend will include.","answerText":"Out of my budget this year, I have allocated £344.5 million to NI Water. This is the first year in a long time that NI Water has been fully funded. This has enabled NI Water to plan for several upgrade projects this year, in the Limavady area.\n\nNI Water proposes to spend £282K on improvements to the wastewater infrastructure in the Limavady area this year. This will include works at Bovally Wastewater Pumping Station and Ballyclose Street Combined Sewer Overflow, as well as upgrades to the Limavady catchment area.\n\nThroughout PC21 (2021/22 to 2026/27), NI Water proposes to invest approximately £4.744 million in the Limavady area, through further works at those locations.\n\nIn addition, during PC21, NI Water intends to carry out a programme of ca £33m base maintenance across its sewer networks and ca £159m base maintenance related to wastewater treatment works, through which the Limavady area would also expect to benefit.\n\nThese figures are subject to NI Water receiving funding for the entire six year PC21 programme. Some investments earmarked for year one of the programme may move within the PC21 period as part of the setting of a monitoring plan.","answerHtml":"Out of my budget this year, I have allocated £344.5 million to NI Water. This is the first year in a long time that NI Water has been fully funded. This has enabled NI Water to plan for several upgrade projects this year, in the Limavady area.
NI Water proposes to spend £282K on improvements to the wastewater infrastructure in the Limavady area this year. This will include works at Bovally Wastewater Pumping Station and Ballyclose Street Combined Sewer Overflow, as well as upgrades to the Limavady catchment area.
Throughout PC21 (2021/22 to 2026/27), NI Water proposes to invest approximately £4.744 million in the Limavady area, through further works at those locations.
In addition, during PC21, NI Water intends to carry out a programme of ca £33m base maintenance across its sewer networks and ca £159m base maintenance related to wastewater treatment works, through which the Limavady area would also expect to benefit.
These figures are subject to NI Water receiving funding for the entire six year PC21 programme. Some investments earmarked for year one of the programme may move within the PC21 period as part of the setting of a monitoring plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021271%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345995","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345995"}},{"id":"345994","reference":"AQW 21270/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-01","answerBy":"2021-07-20","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for her Department’s advice to pupils applying to multiple post-primary schools, when those schools will only accept pupils who have selected it as their first choice.","answerText":"Legislation provides Board of Governors (BoGs) of individual schools, and not my Department, with the power to determine which criteria schools will use for selection. My Department has provided schools with guidance on the post-primary admissions process, including on the criteria it is recommended that schools should and should not use. BoGs must, by law, ‘have regard to’ this guidance.\n\nMy Department specifically recommends that schools should not use preference criteria. Such criteria limit the operation of parental preference and in some cases mean parents may feel that they have to apply to schools in an order other than would normally be their preference.\n\nMy Department’s advice to parents is that they should select at least four preferences on their child’s application, including at least one non-grammar school.\n\nParents are also advised to read schools’ admissions criteria carefully and consider how they might apply to their child, as well as checking how many applications the school has had in recent years. The Education Authority (EA) publishes how many applications post-primary schools have received in recent years at each preference and how many at each preference were accepted by each school. The schools themselves would also be well placed to advise parents on the potential outworking of their admissions criteria.\n\nParents should consider all of the information available to them before submitting applications, including to those schools that make use of preference criteria.","answerHtml":"Legislation provides Board of Governors (BoGs) of individual schools, and not my Department, with the power to determine which criteria schools will use for selection. My Department has provided schools with guidance on the post-primary admissions process, including on the criteria it is recommended that schools should and should not use. BoGs must, by law, ‘have regard to’ this guidance.
My Department specifically recommends that schools should not use preference criteria. Such criteria limit the operation of parental preference and in some cases mean parents may feel that they have to apply to schools in an order other than would normally be their preference.
My Department’s advice to parents is that they should select at least four preferences on their child’s application, including at least one non-grammar school.
Parents are also advised to read schools’ admissions criteria carefully and consider how they might apply to their child, as well as checking how many applications the school has had in recent years. The Education Authority (EA) publishes how many applications post-primary schools have received in recent years at each preference and how many at each preference were accepted by each school. The schools themselves would also be well placed to advise parents on the potential outworking of their admissions criteria.
Parents should consider all of the information available to them before submitting applications, including to those schools that make use of preference criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021270%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345994"}},{"id":"345993","reference":"AQW 21269/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-01","answerBy":"2021-07-20","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, in the absence of AQE tests, to detail (i) the criteria used by post-primary schools to determine acceptance of a pupil; and (ii) the advice given by her Department to schools on this matter.","answerText":"Setting admissions criteria is, by law, a matter for Boards of Governors (BoGs) of individual schools and not my Department. Admissions criteria for each grant-aided school in Northern Ireland are published by the Education Authority (EA). Criteria for September 2021 admission can be found by using the ‘Search by school’ or ‘Search by location’ functions at the following link:\n\nSearch Schools | Education Authority Northern Ireland (eani.org.uk)\n\nMy Department provides guidance to schools on the post-primary admissions process, including on the admissions criteria it is recommended that schools should and should not use. BoGs have a legal duty to ‘have regard to’ this guidance. The most recent guidance, issued in October 2020, is published on my Department’s website at the following link:\n\nCircular 2016/15 - The procedure for transfer from primary to post-primary education | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk)\n\nThe previous Minister wrote, in November 2020, to schools that traditionally make use of academic selection to advise them to consider alternative methods of selecting pupils for admission in the event that entrance tests could not proceed. He then wrote to all post-primary schools in January 2021 asking them to review their admissions criteria where necessary and to submit revised criteria to the EA as soon as possible to enable them to be published on the EA’s website on 2 February 2021.","answerHtml":"Setting admissions criteria is, by law, a matter for Boards of Governors (BoGs) of individual schools and not my Department. Admissions criteria for each grant-aided school in Northern Ireland are published by the Education Authority (EA). Criteria for September 2021 admission can be found by using the ‘Search by school’ or ‘Search by location’ functions at the following link:
Search Schools | Education Authority Northern Ireland (eani.org.uk)
My Department provides guidance to schools on the post-primary admissions process, including on the admissions criteria it is recommended that schools should and should not use. BoGs have a legal duty to ‘have regard to’ this guidance. The most recent guidance, issued in October 2020, is published on my Department’s website at the following link:
Circular 2016/15 - The procedure for transfer from primary to post-primary education | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk)
The previous Minister wrote, in November 2020, to schools that traditionally make use of academic selection to advise them to consider alternative methods of selecting pupils for admission in the event that entrance tests could not proceed. He then wrote to all post-primary schools in January 2021 asking them to review their admissions criteria where necessary and to submit revised criteria to the EA as soon as possible to enable them to be published on the EA’s website on 2 February 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021269%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345993"}},{"id":"345992","reference":"AQW 21268/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-07-01","answerBy":"2021-07-20","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the percentage of pupils who were able to secure places at their first choice post-primary school, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Details of the percentage of pupils who were able to secure places at their first preference post-primary school, broken down by constituency are set out in the table below.\n\nThe information was correct as at the conclusion of the admissions process on 12 June 2021.\n\nTable 1\n\nConstituency\tPercentage of pupils able to secure a place at first preference post-primary school\nBelfast East\t72\nBelfast North\t80\nBelfast South\t65\nBelfast West\t80\nEast Antrim\t75\nEast Londonderry\t94\nFermanagh and South Tyrone\t91\nFoyle\t91\nLagan Valley\t75\nMid Ulster\t93\nNewry and Armagh\t89\nNorth Antrim\t85\nNorth Down\t84\nSouth Antrim\t85\nSouth Down\t89\nStrangford\t74\nUpper Bann\t94\nWest Tyrone\t94","answerHtml":"Details of the percentage of pupils who were able to secure places at their first preference post-primary school, broken down by constituency are set out in the table below.
The information was correct as at the conclusion of the admissions process on 12 June 2021.
Table 1
| Constituency | Percentage of pupils able to secure a place at first preference post-primary school |
| Belfast East | 72 |
| Belfast North | 80 |
| Belfast South | 65 |
| Belfast West | 80 |
| East Antrim | 75 |
| East Londonderry | 94 |
| Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 91 |
| Foyle | 91 |
| Lagan Valley | 75 |
| Mid Ulster | 93 |
| Newry and Armagh | 89 |
| North Antrim | 85 |
| North Down | 84 |
| South Antrim | 85 |
| South Down | 89 |
| Strangford | 74 |
| Upper Bann | 94 |
| West Tyrone | 94 |
The number of units of opioid pain medication prescribed in each of the last five years is not known. The HSC Business Services Organisation (BSO) holds data on medications prescribed in primary care and dispensed by a community pharmacist. The tables overleaf show the number of items and quantities of opiod pain medication dispensed and cover all prescription items and quantities, by preparation type, for opioids dispensed for each of the last five financial years, by Local Commissioning Group area.
The number and quantities of opiod pain medication dispensed in each Local Commissioning Group area, 2016/17 to 2020/211, 2, 3
| 2016/17 | Number of Prescription Items | Quantity of Tablets/ Capsules | Volume of Solutions (ml) | Quantity of Granules (sachets) | Quantity of Transdermal Patches |
| Belfast | 252,421 | 11,482,130 | 952,030 | 12,622 | 308,682 |
| Northern | 243,347 | 11,389,989 | 888,416 | 8,652 | 293,233 |
| Southern | 185,664 | 8,096,910 | 811,946 | 12,356 | 225,943 |
| South Eastern | 192,334 | 8,121,810 | 666,271 | 8,405 | 343,345 |
| Western | 162,366 | 7,294,858 | 993,505 | 5,608 | 193,364 |
| Unknown | 9,280 | 147,963 | 128,578 | 771 | 2,220 |
| Total | 1,045,412 | 46,533,660 | 4,440,746 | 48,414 | 1,366,787 |
| 2017/18 | Number of Prescription Items | Quantity of Tablets/ Capsules | Volume of Solutions (ml) | Quantity of Granules (sachets) | Quantity of Transdermal Patches |
| Belfast | 251,300 | 11,201,559 | 943,042 | 15,206 | 314,927 |
| Northern | 242,559 | 11,244,855 | 960,490 | 5,881 | 293,180 |
| Southern | 184,446 | 7,906,762 | 786,910 | 12,326 | 228,752 |
| South Eastern | 192,077 | 7,881,009 | 749,439 | 9,949 | 346,018 |
| Western | 161,467 | 7,223,594 | 989,085 | 7,470 | 196,560 |
| Unknown | 9,313 | 136,983 | 164,078 | 1,100 | 1,883 |
| Total | 1,041,162 | 45,594,762 | 4,593,044 | 51,932 | 1,381,320 |
| 2018/19 | Number of Prescription Items | Quantity of Tablets/ Capsules | Volume of Solutions (ml) | Quantity of Granules (sachets) | Quantity of Transdermal Patches |
| Belfast | 247,886 | 10,835,814 | 1,065,536 | 12,004 | 310,070 |
| Northern | 239,034 | 10,911,346 | 990,643 | 4,570 | 281,774 |
| Southern | 180,274 | 7,571,369 | 737,259 | 7,418 | 227,619 |
| South Eastern | 192,546 | 7,778,628 | 748,328 | 6,732 | 342,109 |
| Western | 160,285 | 7,104,338 | 1,072,623 | 5,072 | 198,106 |
| Unknown | 8,113 | 121,623 | 154,752 | 904 | 1,408 |
| Total | 1,028,138 | 44,323,118 | 4,769,141 | 36,700 | 1,361,086 |
| 2019/20 | Number of Prescription Items | Quantity of Tablets/ Capsules | Volume of Solutions (ml) | Quantity of Granules (sachets) | Quantity of Transdermal Patches |
| Belfast | 247,185 | 10,575,768 | 1,220,813 | 14,550 | 309,318 |
| Northern | 237,369 | 10,682,268 | 1,086,652 | 8,156 | 271,524 |
| Southern | 178,050 | 7,357,247 | 780,135 | 5,657 | 225,660 |
| South Eastern | 192,075 | 7,670,926 | 848,838 | 11,727 | 336,108 |
| Western | 161,776 | 7,090,508 | 1,155,788 | 4,877 | 200,077 |
| Unknown | 8,047 | 113,141 | 151,063 | 606 | 1,457 |
| Total | 1,024,502 | 43,489,858 | 5,243,289 | 45,573 | 1,344,144 |
| 2020/21 | Number of Prescription Items | Quantity of Tablets/ Capsules | Volume of Solutions (ml) | Quantity of Granules (sachets) | Quantity of Transdermal Patches |
| Belfast | 238,882 | 10,151,440 | 1,413,197 | 18,694 | 296,968 |
| Northern | 228,169 | 10,283,986 | 1,234,625 | 6,222 | 253,728 |
| Southern | 176,328 | 7,206,449 | 864,629 | 7,218 | 221,076 |
| South Eastern | 188,824 | 7,590,967 | 841,771 | 6,482 | 320,608 |
| Western | 160,799 | 7,071,938 | 1,194,039 | 2,589 | 191,984 |
| Unknown | 7,922 | 111,736 | 165,809 | 464 | 1,588 |
| Total | 1,000,924 | 42,416,516 | 5,714,070 | 41,669 | 1,285,952 |
Source: Family Practitioner Services, HSC Business Services Organisation.
1 Opioid drugs fall within British National Formulary Chapter 4, Section 7, Paragraph 2.
2 All information is for prescriptions prescribed in primary care and dispensed by a community pharmacist or dispensing doctor and based on the year of payment. If a patient does not take a prescription to a dispenser and have it provided to them, the information will not be included in the dataset. Data on secondary care prescribing and private prescriptions are not held by the Business Services Organisation.
3 The Local Commissioning Groups (LCGs) cover the same geographical areas as the Health and Social Care Trusts. The LCG is based on the location of the GP Practice. Those with an unknown LCG are due to the practice that prescribed the item being a non-standard GP practice, therefore falling outside the LCG definitions e.g. Out of Hours, Hospice or HM Forces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021267%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345991"}},{"id":"345650","reference":"AQW 21136/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-29","answerBy":"2021-07-16","answered":"2021-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the prevalence of sheep scab; and (ii) to detail his plans to eradicate the disease.","answerText":"In the five year period from 2015 onto 2020 there have been 33 cases of sheep scab reported to the Department, nine of which have been confirmed by either a Private Veterinary Practitioner (PVP) or the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI).\n\nSheep scab is a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland (NI), the Republic of Ireland (RoI) and Great Britain (GB). It only affects sheep and there are no public health concerns with the disease. Preventing, detecting and eradicating animal disease is a primary objective of my Department. The Sheep Scab Order (NI) 1970 places a legal obligation on any person who has reason to believe that sheep in their possession or care have sheep scab to notify their local Divisional Veterinary Office (DVO) as soon as possible.\n\nOn suspicion of sheep scab the Department applies a restriction to the flock and the responsibility lies with the flock keeper to involve their PVP to confirm the presence or absence of sheep scab carrying out whatever examinations, tests and treatment they deem appropriate.\n\nThe PVP must then certify and prove to the Department that a thorough flock investigation has taken place and that all necessary actions have been completed. This usually occurs over a period of time but there is no fixed time period that must elapse before a sheep scab restriction is lifted on a holding.\n\nMy officials work in close collaboration with key representatives from the farming community to ensure the necessary support and guidance is available in relation to maintain high animal health standards thus minimising the risk of disease spread such as sheep scab. These good biosecurity measures and practices range from official controls in place across the entire food production and supply chain, to the education of industry through knowledge transfer and raising awareness via media channels.\n\nOfficials will keep the control of the disease under review in partnership with industry stakeholders, affected flock keepers and through cooperation with our colleagues in GB and the RoI. DAERA will continue to provide the necessary support and advice to industry in order to minimise spread of the disease.","answerHtml":"In the five year period from 2015 onto 2020 there have been 33 cases of sheep scab reported to the Department, nine of which have been confirmed by either a Private Veterinary Practitioner (PVP) or the Agri-Food & Biosciences Institute (AFBI).
Sheep scab is a notifiable disease in Northern Ireland (NI), the Republic of Ireland (RoI) and Great Britain (GB). It only affects sheep and there are no public health concerns with the disease. Preventing, detecting and eradicating animal disease is a primary objective of my Department. The Sheep Scab Order (NI) 1970 places a legal obligation on any person who has reason to believe that sheep in their possession or care have sheep scab to notify their local Divisional Veterinary Office (DVO) as soon as possible.
On suspicion of sheep scab the Department applies a restriction to the flock and the responsibility lies with the flock keeper to involve their PVP to confirm the presence or absence of sheep scab carrying out whatever examinations, tests and treatment they deem appropriate.
The PVP must then certify and prove to the Department that a thorough flock investigation has taken place and that all necessary actions have been completed. This usually occurs over a period of time but there is no fixed time period that must elapse before a sheep scab restriction is lifted on a holding.
My officials work in close collaboration with key representatives from the farming community to ensure the necessary support and guidance is available in relation to maintain high animal health standards thus minimising the risk of disease spread such as sheep scab. These good biosecurity measures and practices range from official controls in place across the entire food production and supply chain, to the education of industry through knowledge transfer and raising awareness via media channels.
Officials will keep the control of the disease under review in partnership with industry stakeholders, affected flock keepers and through cooperation with our colleagues in GB and the RoI. DAERA will continue to provide the necessary support and advice to industry in order to minimise spread of the disease.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021136%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345650"}},{"id":"345649","reference":"AQW 21135/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-29","answerBy":"2021-07-16","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children currently (i) accessing; and (ii) on the waiting list for the Education Welfare Service, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The details requested are not stored by constituency but rather by Education Authority office area and then by teams within that area.\n\nThese are set out as follows:\n\nOffice Area\tTeam\tNumber of Active Cases\tNumber of Unallocated cases\nArmagh\tCraigavon\t160\t90\nArmagh\tDungannon\t189\t30\nArmagh\tNewry\t149\t11\nBallymena\tCentral (Ballymena/Antrim)\t126\t47\nBallymena\tNorthern (Cullycapple, Coleraine)\t141\t63\nBallymena\tSouthern (Loughview, Newtownabbey)\t122\t68\nBelfast\tNorth\t195\t70\nBelfast\tSouth & East\t59\t21\nBelfast\tWest\t165\t114\nDundonald\tBangor\t146\t102\nDundonald\tDownpatrick\t77\t21\nDundonald\tDundonald\t133\t47\nDundonald\tHillsborough\t163\t42\nOmagh\tDerry North/Limavady\t149\t20\nOmagh\tDerry South\t130\t8\nOmagh\tEnniskillen\t45\nOmagh\tOmagh\t71\t16\nOmagh\tStrabane\t63\t3\nSAM Co-ordinators\t99\nTotal\t2382\t773","answerHtml":"The details requested are not stored by constituency but rather by Education Authority office area and then by teams within that area.
These are set out as follows:
| Office Area | Team | Number of Active Cases | Number of Unallocated cases |
| Armagh | Craigavon | 160 | 90 |
| Armagh | Dungannon | 189 | 30 |
| Armagh | Newry | 149 | 11 |
| Ballymena | Central (Ballymena/Antrim) | 126 | 47 |
| Ballymena | Northern (Cullycapple, Coleraine) | 141 | 63 |
| Ballymena | Southern (Loughview, Newtownabbey) | 122 | 68 |
| Belfast | North | 195 | 70 |
| Belfast | South & East | 59 | 21 |
| Belfast | West | 165 | 114 |
| Dundonald | Bangor | 146 | 102 |
| Dundonald | Downpatrick | 77 | 21 |
| Dundonald | Dundonald | 133 | 47 |
| Dundonald | Hillsborough | 163 | 42 |
| Omagh | Derry North/Limavady | 149 | 20 |
| Omagh | Derry South | 130 | 8 |
| Omagh | Enniskillen | 45 | |
| Omagh | Omagh | 71 | 16 |
| Omagh | Strabane | 63 | 3 |
| SAM Co-ordinators | 99 | ||
| Total | 2382 | 773 |
The Department of Education (DE) is not the employer of Education Welfare Officers (EWOs) and it does not have a direct role in the setting of their pay, or any involvement in discussions with NIPSA on potential strike action,
It is very difficult to make direct comparisons of pay across different organisations as the requirements of the particular role and the conditions of service are likely to differ.
For this reason, there are well-established processes and procedures in place within individual organisations to evaluate the appropriate grading of posts and the corresponding level of pay. The Education Authority (EA) use the GLPLC Job Evaluation scheme for this purpose.
The EA, as the employer of EWOs, has advised that there has been substantial engagement with the Trade Union NIPSA over the current pay dispute.
NIPSA and EA Management have been meeting on a fortnightly basis since May 2021 to provide updates on the work to resolve the dispute and keep communication lines open between the two parties.
In addition, trade union side has accepted an invitation to join the Board of the Education Welfare Service Transformation Project, which is tasked with reviewing and transforming the Service to meet the needs of young people. Board meetings have been held on 1 June and 6 July 2021, and a further meeting is scheduled to take place on 2 August.
A Remuneration Subgroup has also been formed between EA management and the Trade Union to focus on resolution of the pay dispute, recognising the interdependencies with the Education Welfare Service Transformation Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021134%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345648","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345648"}},{"id":"345647","reference":"AQW 21133/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-29","answerBy":"2021-07-16","answered":"2021-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what consideration he has given to allowing Northern Irish residents returning from red list countries to isolate at home as opposed to being obliged to organise and pay for a hotel quarantine package.","answerText":"In order to protect public health, including from the risk of new variants of Covid-19 being introduced or established into Northern Ireland, there is a need to place restrictions on international travel. These are set out in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, International Travel) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021. The countries with the highest identified risk are placed on the red list with enhanced measures including the need to enter into managed isolation, as designated by the Department of Health, for the first 10 days from arrival into Northern Ireland.\n\nIn light of the need to reflect individual circumstances, there are a number of situations where it can be requested that the Department of Health agrees to changes to the managed isolation arrangements. These include medically vulnerable persons who would not receive appropriate support if they were required to isolate in the designated managed isolation accommodation, which would have a severe detrimental impact on their condition. In addition, a request can be made if the intention to travel to Northern Ireland is to visit a close family member or friend who is dying or severely ill and could not reasonably practicably be visited if the new arrival is isolating in the managed isolation accommodation.\n\nIn addition, there are a number of exemptions to allow a person to temporarily leave the managed isolation accommodation, For example, to attend the funeral of a household member or close family friend, if they have been given prior permission.\n\nThe International Travel Regulations are kept under regular review.","answerHtml":"In order to protect public health, including from the risk of new variants of Covid-19 being introduced or established into Northern Ireland, there is a need to place restrictions on international travel. These are set out in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, International Travel) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021. The countries with the highest identified risk are placed on the red list with enhanced measures including the need to enter into managed isolation, as designated by the Department of Health, for the first 10 days from arrival into Northern Ireland.
In light of the need to reflect individual circumstances, there are a number of situations where it can be requested that the Department of Health agrees to changes to the managed isolation arrangements. These include medically vulnerable persons who would not receive appropriate support if they were required to isolate in the designated managed isolation accommodation, which would have a severe detrimental impact on their condition. In addition, a request can be made if the intention to travel to Northern Ireland is to visit a close family member or friend who is dying or severely ill and could not reasonably practicably be visited if the new arrival is isolating in the managed isolation accommodation.
In addition, there are a number of exemptions to allow a person to temporarily leave the managed isolation accommodation, For example, to attend the funeral of a household member or close family friend, if they have been given prior permission.
The International Travel Regulations are kept under regular review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021133%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345647","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345647"}},{"id":"345646","reference":"AQW 21132/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-29","answerBy":"2021-07-16","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people on a waiting list for gallbladder surgery, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The number of patients on the waiting list for gallbladder surgery in each HSC Trust as at 31st March 2021 is presented in the table below.\n\nHealth & Social Care Trust\t0-13\nWeeks\t>13-52\nWeeks\t>52\nWeeks\tTotal\nBelfast\t110\t208\t1,053\t1,371\nNorthern\t81\t217\t544\t842\nSouth Eastern\t30\t49\t71\t150\nSouthern\t50\t140\t362\t552\nWestern\t50\t129\t444\t623\nGrand Total\t321\t743\t2,474\t3,538\n\nSource: DoH Inpatient Waiting Times Dataset","answerHtml":"The number of patients on the waiting list for gallbladder surgery in each HSC Trust as at 31st March 2021 is presented in the table below.
| Health & Social Care Trust | 0-13 Weeks | >13-52 Weeks | >52 Weeks | Total |
| Belfast | 110 | 208 | 1,053 | 1,371 |
| Northern | 81 | 217 | 544 | 842 |
| South Eastern | 30 | 49 | 71 | 150 |
| Southern | 50 | 140 | 362 | 552 |
| Western | 50 | 129 | 444 | 623 |
| Grand Total | 321 | 743 | 2,474 | 3,538 |
Source: DoH Inpatient Waiting Times Dataset
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021132%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345646","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345646"}},{"id":"345519","reference":"AQW 21056/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-28","answerBy":"2021-07-15","answered":"2021-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the initiatives he has undertaken, and plans to undertake, to promote food tourism in the Causeway coast area; and (ii) for his assessment of how food tourism can be improved and grown in this area.","answerText":"Food & drink tourism play an important role within the visitor economy for Northern Ireland.\n\nCollaboration across the public and private sectors has resulted in three active Food and Drink Networks:\n\nArmagh Food Heartland;\n\nLegenDerry Food; and\n\nTaste Causeway.\n\nEach of the food networks has been instrumental in raising the profile of food and drink by working across a range of businesses including accommodation providers, food producers, and visitor experiences.\n\nThe Taste Causeway network is made up of over 90 active members who have signed up to the local food criteria and Collaboration Agreement. Invest NI has provided support through its Collaborative Growth Programme. Taste Causeway has had tremendous success in transforming the reputation of food and drink tourism in the Causeway Coast area. It was runner up in The Foodie Destination Awards 2019 and was awarded Slow Food Destination status in May 2020.\n\nTaste Causeway has been involved in local events and festivals including the Salmon and Whiskey Festival and Portrush Beer Fest. In October 2019, members put together a month-long programme of Taste Causeway events as part of the Taste the Island initiative which was financially supported and promoted by Tourism NI.\n\nTourism NI continues to support the strong traditions of artisan food and drink through ongoing development of the ÉCONOMUSÉE network in Northern Ireland. There are six artisan food and drink registered ÉCONOMUSÉE businesses concentrated within the Causeway Coast and Glens region.\n\nDuring the extended period of lockdown, Tourism NI’s and Tourism Ireland’s marketing and social media channels heavily promoted Tourism and Hospitality businesses from the Causeway Coast and Glens region. This ensured that the destination was at the front of mind for both domestic and international audiences.\n\nAs we emerge from the pandemic, Tourism NI will deliver a strong marketing campaign to drive bookings for domestic breaks. Tourism Ireland will deliver international marketing campaigns when the time is right to do so. Food and drink experiences have been, and will continue to be, heavily integrated into all aspects of the destination promotion.\n\nTourism NI is committed to further development of the sector through collaborative engagement with food and drink businesses, local authorities, and stakeholders, to enhance our position as a world class food and drink destination. Continued development of the food and drink sector remains critical to our recovery and is integrated within the Tourism Recovery Action Plan.","answerHtml":"Food & drink tourism play an important role within the visitor economy for Northern Ireland.
Collaboration across the public and private sectors has resulted in three active Food and Drink Networks:
Armagh Food Heartland;
LegenDerry Food; and
Taste Causeway.
Each of the food networks has been instrumental in raising the profile of food and drink by working across a range of businesses including accommodation providers, food producers, and visitor experiences.
The Taste Causeway network is made up of over 90 active members who have signed up to the local food criteria and Collaboration Agreement. Invest NI has provided support through its Collaborative Growth Programme. Taste Causeway has had tremendous success in transforming the reputation of food and drink tourism in the Causeway Coast area. It was runner up in The Foodie Destination Awards 2019 and was awarded Slow Food Destination status in May 2020.
Taste Causeway has been involved in local events and festivals including the Salmon and Whiskey Festival and Portrush Beer Fest. In October 2019, members put together a month-long programme of Taste Causeway events as part of the Taste the Island initiative which was financially supported and promoted by Tourism NI.
Tourism NI continues to support the strong traditions of artisan food and drink through ongoing development of the ÉCONOMUSÉE network in Northern Ireland. There are six artisan food and drink registered ÉCONOMUSÉE businesses concentrated within the Causeway Coast and Glens region.
During the extended period of lockdown, Tourism NI’s and Tourism Ireland’s marketing and social media channels heavily promoted Tourism and Hospitality businesses from the Causeway Coast and Glens region. This ensured that the destination was at the front of mind for both domestic and international audiences.
As we emerge from the pandemic, Tourism NI will deliver a strong marketing campaign to drive bookings for domestic breaks. Tourism Ireland will deliver international marketing campaigns when the time is right to do so. Food and drink experiences have been, and will continue to be, heavily integrated into all aspects of the destination promotion.
Tourism NI is committed to further development of the sector through collaborative engagement with food and drink businesses, local authorities, and stakeholders, to enhance our position as a world class food and drink destination. Continued development of the food and drink sector remains critical to our recovery and is integrated within the Tourism Recovery Action Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021056%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345519"}},{"id":"345518","reference":"AQW 21055/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-28","answerBy":"2021-07-15","answered":"2021-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the anticipated number of trainee places that will be created at the North West Regional College as part of the NI Traineeship programme.","answerText":"In September 2021 my Department introduced reforms to Northern Ireland’s youth training system. The new NI Traineeship replaced the Level 2 Training for Success programme and, in future, it will be expanded to encompass a range of full-time Level 2 mainstream vocational education programmes.\n\nThe Traineeship programme is being delivered exclusively by the Further Education Colleges throughout Northern Ireland and being introduced on a phased basis. In September 2021 North West Regional College offered approximately 85 Traineeship places across a number of occupational areas that included Engineering, Carpentry and Joinery, Motor Vehicle and Retail.\n\nFrom September 2022, the range of Traineeships available will be expanded, increasing the number of places available across NI as well as in NWRC.","answerHtml":"In September 2021 my Department introduced reforms to Northern Ireland’s youth training system. The new NI Traineeship replaced the Level 2 Training for Success programme and, in future, it will be expanded to encompass a range of full-time Level 2 mainstream vocational education programmes.
The Traineeship programme is being delivered exclusively by the Further Education Colleges throughout Northern Ireland and being introduced on a phased basis. In September 2021 North West Regional College offered approximately 85 Traineeship places across a number of occupational areas that included Engineering, Carpentry and Joinery, Motor Vehicle and Retail.
From September 2022, the range of Traineeships available will be expanded, increasing the number of places available across NI as well as in NWRC.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021055%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345518"}},{"id":"345517","reference":"AQW 21054/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-28","answerBy":"2021-07-15","answered":"2021-07-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of JobStart work placements that have been created in each constituency.","answerText":"At 29 June 2021, my Department has approved 236 employer applications amounting to 556 JobStart opportunities. The opportunities are considered jobs, not work placements.\n\nInformation is not available by Parliamentary Constituency Area. A breakdown, by Council area, is as follows:\n\nJobStart – Opportunities Approved\tNo\nBelfast City Council\t120\nMid Ulster District Council\t49\nArds and North Down Borough Council\t47\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council\t48\nCauseway Coast and Glens Borough Council\t66\nDerry City and Strabane District Council\t33\nNewry, Mourne and Down District Council\t56\nAntrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council\t31\nMid and East Antrim Borough Council\t24\nLisburn and Castlereagh City Council\t47\nFermanagh and Omagh District Council\t35\nOutside Northern Ireland\t0\nTotal\t556","answerHtml":"At 29 June 2021, my Department has approved 236 employer applications amounting to 556 JobStart opportunities. The opportunities are considered jobs, not work placements.
Information is not available by Parliamentary Constituency Area. A breakdown, by Council area, is as follows:
| JobStart – Opportunities Approved | No |
| Belfast City Council | 120 |
| Mid Ulster District Council | 49 |
| Ards and North Down Borough Council | 47 |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council | 48 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council | 66 |
| Derry City and Strabane District Council | 33 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down District Council | 56 |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council | 31 |
| Mid and East Antrim Borough Council | 24 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council | 47 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh District Council | 35 |
| Outside Northern Ireland | 0 |
| Total | 556 |
GPs are independent contractors who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors, GPs are responsible for the day to day management of their practice, including patient appointment arrangements. The framework for the GMS contract, including the provision of services, is set out in the Health and Personal Social Services (General Medical Services Contract) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004:
http://www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2004/140/contents/made
Regulation 15 (Part 5) provides information on the management of registered patients, which includes:
offering consultation and, where appropriate, physical examination for the purpose of identifying the need, if any, for treatment or further investigation; and
the making available of such treatment or further investigation as is necessary and appropriate, including the referral of the patient for other services and liaison with other health care professionals involved in the patient’s treatment and care.
GP practices are open and providing both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate. The general practice telephone first consultation allows patients to seek timely medical advice from their GP for both routine and urgent problems. The GP determines the most appropriate approach to safely addressing the patient’s needs using their clinical expertise. The GP decides, based on their assessment, if a face to face appointment is appropriate, if the patient can be managed over the telephone or if they should be signposted or directed to other appropriate services. This approach helps the GP to appropriately manage, treat and support the large number of people who seek clinical support and advice from primary care practitioners.
Primary Care’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of new and innovative ways of working that were already ongoing to enable General Practice, along with all other areas within the health and social care system, to react quickly and adapt flexibly to the demands and challenges of the pandemic.
The use of more innovative ways of working, including telephone and video consultations, is now widely embedded and the model of Primary Care will continue to transform to meet growing patient demand with technology and new ways of working playing an important role alongside existing arrangements, such as face to face appointments, which will continue to be available to GPs to safely manage patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021053%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345516"}},{"id":"345515","reference":"AQW 21052/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-28","answerBy":"2021-07-15","answered":"2021-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the number and location of trees with preservation orders in East Londonderry; and (ii) the total number of tree preservation orders, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Tree Preservation Orders does not fall within the responsibility of my Department. It is the local councils who make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) to protect selected trees or groups of trees.\n\nSome councils publish a register of TPOs in place within their council area. East Londonderry constituency encompasses areas within two council areas, Derry City & Strabane District Council and Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council, neither of which publish a TPO register.\n\nIndividual councils are therefore best placed to provide TPO information, for which they are responsible, within each constituency.","answerHtml":"Tree Preservation Orders does not fall within the responsibility of my Department. It is the local councils who make and enforce Tree Preservation Orders (TPO) to protect selected trees or groups of trees.
Some councils publish a register of TPOs in place within their council area. East Londonderry constituency encompasses areas within two council areas, Derry City & Strabane District Council and Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council, neither of which publish a TPO register.
Individual councils are therefore best placed to provide TPO information, for which they are responsible, within each constituency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2021052%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345515"}},{"id":"345357","reference":"AQW 20964/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of claims made against her Department arising from traffic collisions resulting from long grass obscuring drivers’ visibility, broken down by constituency, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My officials have searched the database of claims made against this Department and have been unable to identify any claims arising from traffic collisions that resulted from long grass obscuring drivers’ visibility during the last five financial years.","answerHtml":"My officials have searched the database of claims made against this Department and have been unable to identify any claims arising from traffic collisions that resulted from long grass obscuring drivers’ visibility during the last five financial years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020964%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345357"}},{"id":"345356","reference":"AQW 20963/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of appointments provided by GPs per Health and Social Care Trust area, in each of the past five years; and (ii) the number of people in each trust area.","answerText":"As independent contractors, GP practices are responsible for managing their own appointment systems and waiting times. As such, information on the number of appointments provided by GPs is not available.\n\nThe number of registered patients in each LCG area is shown in the table overleaf.\n\nTable 1: The number of registered patients in each LCG1 area, at April 2021.\n\nLCG1\tRegistered patients\nBelfast\t438,485\nNorthern\t476,015\nSouth Eastern\t334,241\nSouthern\t425,826\nWestern\t332,370\nNorthern Ireland\t2,006,937\n\nSource: National Health Application and Infrastructure Services (NHAIS)\n\n1 The Local Commissioning Groups cover the same geographical areas as the Health and Social Care Trusts","answerHtml":"As independent contractors, GP practices are responsible for managing their own appointment systems and waiting times. As such, information on the number of appointments provided by GPs is not available.
The number of registered patients in each LCG area is shown in the table overleaf.
Table 1: The number of registered patients in each LCG1 area, at April 2021.
| LCG1 | Registered patients |
| Belfast | 438,485 |
| Northern | 476,015 |
| South Eastern | 334,241 |
| Southern | 425,826 |
| Western | 332,370 |
| Northern Ireland | 2,006,937 |
Source: National Health Application and Infrastructure Services (NHAIS)
1 The Local Commissioning Groups cover the same geographical areas as the Health and Social Care Trusts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020963%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345356"}},{"id":"345355","reference":"AQW 20962/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2022-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the support his Department has provided to Taste Causeway.","answerText":"The Taste Causeway Network is funded via Invest NI’s Collaborative Growth Programme (CGP), and was awarded Phase Two grant assistance of £169,200 in November 2018. The project, which has a three year timeframe, is due to end on March 31st 2022.\n\nThe Network had previously availed of a CGP Phase One offer of £23,050 to enable a scoping study to be undertaken, prior to applying for full funding.","answerHtml":"The Taste Causeway Network is funded via Invest NI’s Collaborative Growth Programme (CGP), and was awarded Phase Two grant assistance of £169,200 in November 2018. The project, which has a three year timeframe, is due to end on March 31st 2022.
The Network had previously availed of a CGP Phase One offer of £23,050 to enable a scoping study to be undertaken, prior to applying for full funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020962%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345355"}},{"id":"345354","reference":"AQW 20961/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to confirm the date by which each year seven primary school pupil (i) should; and (ii) will have a confirmed place at a post-primary school.","answerText":"While the majority of children received good news at the conclusion of the post-primary admissions process, just over 1% of the cohort, or 280 children, had not been placed at a school of their preference.\n\nI am pleased to say that parents have engaged with the Education Authority (EA) to nominate additional preferences for their children and as of 1 July 2021 this has now dropped to 90 children.\n\nAs neither my Department nor the EA places a child who does not have a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) in a school, all children will have secured a place once remaining parents nominate a school for their child from those that have places available.\n\nThe majority of parents of children with SEN have already received their child’s new or amended statement with their placement for September 2021. Where placements have not yet been confirmed, the EA’s SEN Team will work directly with parents to update them on their individual consultation process.\n\nMy Department will continue to work with the EA and schools to provide additional places where a shortfall arises in any area.","answerHtml":"While the majority of children received good news at the conclusion of the post-primary admissions process, just over 1% of the cohort, or 280 children, had not been placed at a school of their preference.
I am pleased to say that parents have engaged with the Education Authority (EA) to nominate additional preferences for their children and as of 1 July 2021 this has now dropped to 90 children.
As neither my Department nor the EA places a child who does not have a statement of Special Educational Needs (SEN) in a school, all children will have secured a place once remaining parents nominate a school for their child from those that have places available.
The majority of parents of children with SEN have already received their child’s new or amended statement with their placement for September 2021. Where placements have not yet been confirmed, the EA’s SEN Team will work directly with parents to update them on their individual consultation process.
My Department will continue to work with the EA and schools to provide additional places where a shortfall arises in any area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020961%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345354"}},{"id":"345353","reference":"AQW 20960/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-25","answerBy":"2021-07-14","answered":"2021-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the advice given to schools in relation to rules around the use of mobile phones in school; and (ii) for her assessment of the educational and social impact of pupils using mobile phones in school.","answerText":"My Department does not provide advice to schools in relation to rules around the use of mobile phones in schools or assess the educational and social impact of their usage.\n\nIt is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to adopt a policy regarding the use of mobile phones by pupils on school premises.","answerHtml":"My Department does not provide advice to schools in relation to rules around the use of mobile phones in schools or assess the educational and social impact of their usage.
It is the responsibility of the Board of Governors of each school to adopt a policy regarding the use of mobile phones by pupils on school premises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020960%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345353"}},{"id":"345191","reference":"AQW 20883/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-09","answered":"2021-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) how autism spectrum disorder service funding levels in each Health and Social Care Trust are calculated; and (ii) how much is spent on autism services in the Limavady area.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) commission services based on need within available resources and allocate these resources to each Health and Social Care Trust (Trust) on a fair and equitable basis in response to local population requirements.\n\nThe cost of meeting the needs of each population differs across localities due to factors such as age, rurality and social economic factors which impact on the need for Health and Social Care (HSC) resources. The cost of providing similar services across local areas may differ due to different levels of cost efficiency within Trusts.\n\nEach Trust will then allocate funding appropriately, in addition to the existing resources in a specific area/service and dependent on capacity in each Trust.\n\nDetailed information in relation to how much is spent on autism services in specific areas, including the Limavady area, is unavailable.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) commission services based on need within available resources and allocate these resources to each Health and Social Care Trust (Trust) on a fair and equitable basis in response to local population requirements.
The cost of meeting the needs of each population differs across localities due to factors such as age, rurality and social economic factors which impact on the need for Health and Social Care (HSC) resources. The cost of providing similar services across local areas may differ due to different levels of cost efficiency within Trusts.
Each Trust will then allocate funding appropriately, in addition to the existing resources in a specific area/service and dependent on capacity in each Trust.
Detailed information in relation to how much is spent on autism services in specific areas, including the Limavady area, is unavailable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020883%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345191"}},{"id":"345190","reference":"AQW 20882/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-09","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the process by which the family of autistic children can access direct support payments; (ii) whether this process can be expedited if a child requires urgent intervention; and (iii) what plans he has to make these processes simpler and faster for families.","answerText":"Expenditure on road infrastructure is not recorded on an Assembly Constituency basis, rather it is analysed by District Council. The Strangford Constituency includes road infrastructure primarily in the Ards and North Down Council area, Lisburn and Castlereagh; and Newry, Mourne and Down Council areas.\n\nFinal audited expenditure outturn by District Council area for 2020-21 is not yet available, however outturn for the financial years 2017-18 to 2019-20 is included in Table 1.\n\nTable 1\n\nDistrict Council Area\t2017-18\t2018-19\t2019-20\nLisburn & Castlereagh\t£8.9m\t£13.9m\t£13.4m\nArds & North Down\t£8.3m\t£10m\t£9m\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t£14.7m\t£20.5m\t£21.7m\nTotal\t£31.9m\t£44.4m\t£44.1m\n\nThe percentage of the total council expenditure in Table 1 compared to the overall council outturn for the North is provided in Table 2.\n\nTable 2\n\nDistrict Council Area\t2017-18\t2018-19\t2019-20\nTotal for three council areas\t£31.9m\t£44.4m\t£44.1m\nOverall District Council total\t£221.4m\t£278.1m\t£295.3m\n% of overall total\t14%\t16%\t15%\n\nIt should also be noted that while expenditure can occur in one District Council area, the benefits are not confined to the district council area in which they are located. Expenditure on road improvements may fluctuate annually reflecting funding availability and schemes undertaken.","answerHtml":"Expenditure on road infrastructure is not recorded on an Assembly Constituency basis, rather it is analysed by District Council. The Strangford Constituency includes road infrastructure primarily in the Ards and North Down Council area, Lisburn and Castlereagh; and Newry, Mourne and Down Council areas.
Final audited expenditure outturn by District Council area for 2020-21 is not yet available, however outturn for the financial years 2017-18 to 2019-20 is included in Table 1.
Table 1
| District Council Area | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | £8.9m | £13.9m | £13.4m |
| Ards & North Down | £8.3m | £10m | £9m |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | £14.7m | £20.5m | £21.7m |
| Total | £31.9m | £44.4m | £44.1m |
The percentage of the total council expenditure in Table 1 compared to the overall council outturn for the North is provided in Table 2.
Table 2
| District Council Area | 2017-18 | 2018-19 | 2019-20 |
| Total for three council areas | £31.9m | £44.4m | £44.1m |
| Overall District Council total | £221.4m | £278.1m | £295.3m |
| % of overall total | 14% | 16% | 15% |
It should also be noted that while expenditure can occur in one District Council area, the benefits are not confined to the district council area in which they are located. Expenditure on road improvements may fluctuate annually reflecting funding availability and schemes undertaken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020882%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345190"}},{"id":"345189","reference":"AQW 20881/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-09","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the guidance given by her Department to schools in the formation of school policies such as bullying, incident reporting forms and actions taken; and (ii) the degree of autonomy individual schools have in the creation of school policies.","answerText":"Under Articles 3-6 of The Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, all schools have a statutory responsibility within their scheme of management for developing their own policies to promote good behaviour and discipline for pupils attending the school\n\nThe Department has provided guidance in the form of ‘Promoting and Sustaining Good Behaviour: A Discipline Strategy for Schools’ and ‘Pastoral Care in Schools: Promoting Positive Behaviour’. These documents are available on the Department’s website at:\n\nPromoting Good Behaviour - A Discipline Strategy for Schools\n\nPastoral Care In Schools - Promoting Positive Behaviour\n\nSpecifically in relation to bullying, statutory guidance to support implementation of the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (the Act) is available on the Department’s website at Addressing Bullying in Schools Act - Statutory Guidance\n\nThe Education Authority (EA) has also provided training and online resources, including a sample policy framework for schools and their Boards of Governors on which to base their own anti-bullying policy. These can be found at:\n\nAddressing Bullying in Schools Act 2016 - Education Authority Guidance\n\nA bullying incident recording system has been developed on C2k, which includes a Bullying Concern Assessment Form (BCAF) which allows schools to record details of bullying incidents and the actions they have taken to address them. Guidance documents are also available on the C2k Exchange.\n\nThe content of school policies is a matter for the Principal and Board of Governors but a school must consider any guidance provided by the Department, the EA or the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) when drawing up policies.\n\nFrom 1 September 2021, the Act places a statutory duty on Boards of Governors to determine the detailed measures to be taken by the school to prevent bullying; ensure these are properly implemented; and are kept under periodic review.","answerHtml":"Under Articles 3-6 of The Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1998, all schools have a statutory responsibility within their scheme of management for developing their own policies to promote good behaviour and discipline for pupils attending the school
The Department has provided guidance in the form of ‘Promoting and Sustaining Good Behaviour: A Discipline Strategy for Schools’ and ‘Pastoral Care in Schools: Promoting Positive Behaviour’. These documents are available on the Department’s website at:
Promoting Good Behaviour - A Discipline Strategy for Schools
Pastoral Care In Schools - Promoting Positive Behaviour
Specifically in relation to bullying, statutory guidance to support implementation of the Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (the Act) is available on the Department’s website at Addressing Bullying in Schools Act - Statutory Guidance
The Education Authority (EA) has also provided training and online resources, including a sample policy framework for schools and their Boards of Governors on which to base their own anti-bullying policy. These can be found at:
Addressing Bullying in Schools Act 2016 - Education Authority Guidance
A bullying incident recording system has been developed on C2k, which includes a Bullying Concern Assessment Form (BCAF) which allows schools to record details of bullying incidents and the actions they have taken to address them. Guidance documents are also available on the C2k Exchange.
The content of school policies is a matter for the Principal and Board of Governors but a school must consider any guidance provided by the Department, the EA or the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) when drawing up policies.
From 1 September 2021, the Act places a statutory duty on Boards of Governors to determine the detailed measures to be taken by the school to prevent bullying; ensure these are properly implemented; and are kept under periodic review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020881%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345189"}},{"id":"345188","reference":"AQW 20880/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-09","answered":"2021-07-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the advice given to GP practices in relation to the number of patients that are currently being seen either in person or via a phone consultation; and (ii) for his assessment of the current supply and demand of GP appointments.","answerText":"GPs are independent contractors who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors, GPs are responsible for the management of their appointment system.\n\nI want to emphasise that primary care services are working to make best use of available resources for everyone who is seeking to access the care that they need. GP practices are open and providing both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.\n\nThe general practice telephone first consultation allows patients to seek timely medical advice from their GP for both routine and urgent problems. The GP determines the most appropriate approach to safely addressing the patient’s needs using their clinical expertise. The GP decides, based on their assessment, if a face to face appointment is appropriate, if the patient can be managed over the telephone or if they should be signposted or directed to other appropriate services. This approach helps the GP to appropriately manage, treat and support the large number of people who seek clinical support and advice from primary care practitioners.\n\nThe extent to which primary care was already facing considerable pressures prior to the pandemic was clear. Figures in 2019 indicated patient contacts were almost 15 million per year up from an estimated 12.7 million in 2014.\n\nEven before having to cope with the strain of a sustained pandemic situation, the need for transformation of primary care was already recognised. Initiatives such as the Multi-Disciplinary Team Programme, the introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and additional General Practice Nurses were already making a difference to how services are delivered in primary care. Investment in technology, including telephony, was also assisting General Practice to meet growing demand.\n\nThe development of this mixed approach to delivering primary care services has been ongoing since 2016, so is not a new concept. In 2016, the report of the GP-led Care Review Working Group concluded that GP-led services could not continue to meet rising demand and expectations without urgent action to address the pressures facing the service. The report set out a vision for future GP-led services which noted that technology will play a much greater part in the delivery of primary care services.\n\nPrimary Care’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of new and innovative ways of working that were already ongoing to enable General Practice, along with all other areas within the health and social care system, to react quickly and adapt flexibly to the demands and challenges of the pandemic. Despite the demands and capacity limits that COVID has created, GPs have maintained all of the core elements of general practice services.\n\nThe use of more innovative ways of working, including telephone and video consultations, is now widely embedded and the model of Primary Care will continue to transform to meet growing patient demand with technology and new ways of working playing an important role alongside existing arrangements, such as face to face appointments, which will continue to be available to GPs to safely manage patient care.","answerHtml":"GPs are independent contractors who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors, GPs are responsible for the management of their appointment system.
I want to emphasise that primary care services are working to make best use of available resources for everyone who is seeking to access the care that they need. GP practices are open and providing both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.
The general practice telephone first consultation allows patients to seek timely medical advice from their GP for both routine and urgent problems. The GP determines the most appropriate approach to safely addressing the patient’s needs using their clinical expertise. The GP decides, based on their assessment, if a face to face appointment is appropriate, if the patient can be managed over the telephone or if they should be signposted or directed to other appropriate services. This approach helps the GP to appropriately manage, treat and support the large number of people who seek clinical support and advice from primary care practitioners.
The extent to which primary care was already facing considerable pressures prior to the pandemic was clear. Figures in 2019 indicated patient contacts were almost 15 million per year up from an estimated 12.7 million in 2014.
Even before having to cope with the strain of a sustained pandemic situation, the need for transformation of primary care was already recognised. Initiatives such as the Multi-Disciplinary Team Programme, the introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and additional General Practice Nurses were already making a difference to how services are delivered in primary care. Investment in technology, including telephony, was also assisting General Practice to meet growing demand.
The development of this mixed approach to delivering primary care services has been ongoing since 2016, so is not a new concept. In 2016, the report of the GP-led Care Review Working Group concluded that GP-led services could not continue to meet rising demand and expectations without urgent action to address the pressures facing the service. The report set out a vision for future GP-led services which noted that technology will play a much greater part in the delivery of primary care services.
Primary Care’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of new and innovative ways of working that were already ongoing to enable General Practice, along with all other areas within the health and social care system, to react quickly and adapt flexibly to the demands and challenges of the pandemic. Despite the demands and capacity limits that COVID has created, GPs have maintained all of the core elements of general practice services.
The use of more innovative ways of working, including telephone and video consultations, is now widely embedded and the model of Primary Care will continue to transform to meet growing patient demand with technology and new ways of working playing an important role alongside existing arrangements, such as face to face appointments, which will continue to be available to GPs to safely manage patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020880%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345188"}},{"id":"345187","reference":"AQW 20879/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-09","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail his plans to roll out the continuity of carer model of care for new mothers; and (ii) his assessment of the benefits of this model.","answerText":"My Department is planning the transformation of maternity services towards a CoMC model. This will require investment in staff and resources, so the imminent appointment of a Regional CoMC Midwife Consultant, and subsequently a CoMC Implementation Lead Midwife in each Health and Social Care Trust will allow this to be coordinated.\n\nThis work is pivotal to the new Northern Ireland Maternity Strategy, development of which was paused due to pressures arising from the COVID-19 crisis, but will recommence as soon as possible and accelerate the delivery of a CoMC model here.\n\nImplementing a Continuity of Midwifery Carer (CoMC) model within Northern Ireland maternity services is crucial in ensuring that women, babies and families have the best and safest possible midwifery care.\n\nThe specific benefits of the CoMC approach is well documented. Once the wider policy is implemented, it is intended that continuity of midwifery carer will be available for all women, including those women who are pregnant following a previous pregnancy loss or the death of a baby.","answerHtml":"My Department is planning the transformation of maternity services towards a CoMC model. This will require investment in staff and resources, so the imminent appointment of a Regional CoMC Midwife Consultant, and subsequently a CoMC Implementation Lead Midwife in each Health and Social Care Trust will allow this to be coordinated.
This work is pivotal to the new Northern Ireland Maternity Strategy, development of which was paused due to pressures arising from the COVID-19 crisis, but will recommence as soon as possible and accelerate the delivery of a CoMC model here.
Implementing a Continuity of Midwifery Carer (CoMC) model within Northern Ireland maternity services is crucial in ensuring that women, babies and families have the best and safest possible midwifery care.
The specific benefits of the CoMC approach is well documented. Once the wider policy is implemented, it is intended that continuity of midwifery carer will be available for all women, including those women who are pregnant following a previous pregnancy loss or the death of a baby.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020879%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345187"}},{"id":"345273","reference":"AQO 2353/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-06","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline her plans to review planning policy in order to ensure its consistent interpretation across all local council areas.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"A primary function of the Department with respect to planning is to formulate and coordinate policy for securing the orderly and consistent development of land and the planning of that development. The transfer of powers to councils and the introduction of the two-tier planning system was intended to enable councils to interpret and apply strategic policy, as set out in the strategic planning policy statement, for their areas through their local development plan and development management responsibilities. That has empowered local government to meet the needs and aspirations of local communities, taking account of the particular context and circumstances that they face. There will, therefore, be some different local planning policies and decisions to reflect the differing circumstances of each of our councils. However, it is also important for the integrity of the planning system that the wider regional policy objectives set by my Department are maintained across Northern Ireland. The Department has a number of powers and functions that enable it to monitor the operation of planning matters by councils to oversee and secure the implementation of regional policy and good practices. The Department's interest in exercising those powers is not to interfere with a council's right and responsibility to take its own decisions but to consider the exercise of its strategic functions and to safeguard against systemic risks to the achievement of regional planning objectives."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"I invite Claire Sugden for a supplementary question. Can you hear us OK? We cannot see you, Claire."},{"speaker":"","text":"We will try to come back to you if we can establish connectivity."},{"speaker":"Ms Ennis","text":"With regard to planning, there is probably no decision more anticipated than that of Casement Park. We know the huge cultural and economic benefits that that Executive flagship project will bring. When will the Minister be in a position finally to approve planning permission for Casement Park?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"I thank the Member for her question. Casement is a hugely important application. As with all applications, my officials are working to progress it properly and at pace. My planning officials went to Belfast City Council for a consultation, as required under the legislation. My understanding is that we have just received a formal response from Belfast City Council. My officials will review it and will continue to work hard to ensure that we can get this application process through while, obviously, correctly following all the statutory procedures and requirements. As I have stated many times in the House, rugby has its home, soccer has its home, and it is only right that Gaelic games have their home, and in Ulster."},{"speaker":"Mr Beggs","text":"How homes and businesses are developed across each council in their area plans can have huge long-term implications for energy requirements for transport and for heating. How can we ensure that there is a consistent approach and, in particular, ensure that climate change implications are taken on board?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"The Member raises a very important point. As I said in response to Ms Sugden, we need flexibility so that councils can tailor their local development plans to meet the needs of the local population. We also need consistency and adherence to wider strategic policy. The strategic planning policy is on sustainable development, so that has to be a key component. The Member will know that I recently announced that I am taking forward a review for renewable and low-carbon energy development within the wider context of the climate emergency. That is part of our efforts to support a green recovery from the pandemic. It is also one of the reasons why I am keen to pursue the independent infrastructure commission, as it would have an important role to play in ensuring that we bring experts in, that we have the important element of public consultation, and that we have a 30-year vision for our infrastructure and planning that has at its heart the need to be ambitious in tackling the climate crisis."},{"speaker":"Mr Buckley","text":"The Committee will follow closely the review of planning policy as it is a key priority area for it. While I recognise that area plans will allow councils to rightly tailor plans to local needs, which was the primary purpose of those powers, will the Minister look into whether planning powers that were devolved to councils have been operating efficiently and effectively for the constituents whom we all serve? Many in the planning system are frustrated by the long delay in planning applications, not in any particular area but across the board. Will the Minister look at that in a review?"},{"speaker":"Ms Mallon","text":"There are two elements. There is a need to monitor our local councils' planning performance review, and there are a number of ways in which my Department is doing that. The second element is what my Department is doing to improve its performance when it comes to the planning system. My Department is working closely with key stakeholders in a number of ways to improve the processes and increase the efficiency of the planning system to ensure that planning applications are processed in a timely manner."},{"speaker":"","text":"As the Member will know, we are carrying out a review of the implementation of the Planning Act 2011. That will provide an opportunity to consider any improvements that may be required to the way in which the Act has been commenced and implemented in subordinate legislation."},{"speaker":"","text":"Work is ongoing with statutory consultees through a cross-government planning forum to improve processes around statutory consultation and statutory consultation response times. In addition, my Department, as part of a collaborative project with 10 councils, will deliver a new planning IT system next year that will improve the submission and processing of planning applications. Community engagement is an important part of our planning process, and is an area that should be improved. That is why I established the planning engagement partnership to look at how to enhance the quality and depth of community engagement in the planning process at regional and local levels. I recognise the need for regional and local improvements in our planning system. We remain committed to doing what we can in the Department, and, given the importance of planning to growing our economy, which is particularly acute as we emerge from this pandemic, we are also working with councils."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. We now move on to 15 minutes of topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202353%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345273","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-07-06&docID=345818#AQO%202353/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345273"}},{"id":"345256","reference":"AQO 2336/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-24","answerBy":"2021-07-05","answered":"2021-07-05","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his plans to introduce a mechanism for travellers from Northern Ireland to provide confirmation of a COVID-19 vaccination.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Swann (The Minister of Health)","text":"If I may, I request an extra minute to answer that question, as I know that it is of great interest to Members and their constituents. My Department has undertaken two significant pieces of work to assist those wishing to undertake international travel. First, officials have been working on a comprehensive COVID-status certificate system (CCS) since April, when international standards for information exchange began to emerge. The final CCS will take the form of a printed certificate supplemented by a mobile phone app. That system will provide internationally accepted proof that the holder has either received both vaccine doses at least two weeks prior to travel, or has demonstrated immunity to the virus, or has received a negative PCR test result in the preceding 72 hours. The comprehensive solution is expected to be available for 19 July. For those unable to access the automated digital solution, a helpline will be available. Members will appreciate that IT-based solutions that require access to personal healthcare records must meet the strictest data protection and cybersecurity standards and that such work cannot be rushed. A second interim solution was developed in an incredibly short time and was made available to the public on Friday evening last week. The service was developed after some countries unilaterally decided to require vaccination proof, ahead of the EU vaccine passport scheme becoming fully functional. The interim solution enables people from Northern Ireland travelling to international destinations to show that they have received both vaccine doses. The system was available on the nidirect website on Friday evening, with requests prioritised by intended date of travel. Health and Social Care Board staff are verifying the requester's identity, locating their vaccine record and preparing a vaccine certificate for collection from one of three vaccine centres, and staff are on hand to assist with any difficulties that may arise. There has been an incredible public response to the interim solution. As of 1.00 pm today, there have been 4,500 applications. For 125 of those travelling today, certificates were made available for collection from one of three collection points yesterday afternoon. The short-term interim arrangements are only for people travelling to foreign countries who require proof of double-dose vaccination up to 20 July. The interim documentation will have a short-term expiry date and will be of no use to anyone travelling at a later date. I am sure that Members will join me in thanking the Health and Social Care Board staff, health and social care trust staff, the system developers and departmental officials for developing the interim solution in a matter of days and working over the weekend to enable our citizens to meet the changing requirements for international travel."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Minister. That is really great work. I thank the Minister for his attention to that matter. I have written to him on a number of occasions, and that information will be gratefully received today by all those who need that vaccine passport, if you like. Today, I read that the second vaccination dose is available at the COVID mobile test units. Will that have any implications for information-sharing for the vaccine passport, so that people can get that documentation?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"It will not. In fact, it allows members of the public to bring forward their second vaccine dose from what had been scheduled. We encourage people not to do that as it would affect the sequencing of our booking systems. However, that can be done if people prefer to do it and they follow the guidance. We do not encourage it, but it would allow people to be provided with the vaccine certification and verification documentation once they have received their second vaccine."},{"speaker":"Mr McNulty","text":"Minister, well done on this. It is a huge release for so many who want to feel sand and sea or travel abroad to get away from things after this hard 14 months. You will recognise that the race against the delta variant is on. On Saturday, a temporary vaccination centre was set up in the Quays in Newry and had a huge uptake. I believe that the centre in Craigavon is now allowing people to rock up for vaccinations without an appointment. How important do you see that being in the race against the variant? Will those temporary stations be more readily available on weekdays and weekends so that more people can access the vaccine and allow us to get ahead of the delta variant?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member. Other people have used the terminology that this is now a race between the vaccine and the variant. I concur with that. The more people we can vaccinate with first and second doses, the more protection we can give to the population of Northern Ireland. The Member quoted examples of walk-in vaccine centres at the weekend. He will see those being replicated across all trust areas. All the trusts are moving forward with those centres for first doses and, in some cases, they will be located in towns and villages across Northern Ireland where we have identified a low uptake of vaccines. Our trust centres are still operating and will move to a walk-in service for first and second doses, as long as people have left the appropriate time between doses. We are doing everything that we can to encourage as much uptake of the vaccine as possible in Northern Ireland. We have seen a great response to date. We have seen a great response from our health and social care system in delivering the vaccine. If the Member recalls, the programme started only a number of months ago rather than a long time ago."},{"speaker":"Mrs Barton","text":"Can the Minister provide an update on what steps are being taken to ensure that people who participated in the vaccine trials are not disadvantaged when it comes to securing the appropriate certification?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for her point, which is a significant one for the people in Northern Ireland who came forward for vaccine trials, some of whom received a placebo dose. The four UK Chief Medical Officers and the Chief Scientific Adviser in Northern Ireland have advised that participants in well-regulated clinical trials should not be disadvantaged as global travel resumes. Participants will not be disadvantaged in any domestic vaccine certifications compared to anyone else who received their vaccines under the standard health and social care programme. The vaccine management system used by the CCS will record trial participants as being vaccinated. All participants in trials who received a vaccine that will not be licensed, or received a placebo, have been advised that they will remain certified during a grace period to allow them to receive the standard vaccines, if the doctors in charge of the trials recommend that."},{"speaker":"Ms Bradshaw","text":"Minister, I was contacted by a constituent whose teenage daughter has only had her first dose. Will you clarify what the period between the two doses is? My constituent is worried that they will be unable to go on holiday."},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for that. There is now revised guidance and the periods between vaccines has been shortened. It depends on what vaccine she got for her first dose. It has been reduced to six weeks and eight weeks depending on the vaccine. I have it in my notes somewhere. If I remember it during the rest of Question Time, I will respond to the Member. I will reply to her in writing about shortening the period between the vaccine doses. It is possible, but I do not encourage it because it upsets some of the systems that we have in place."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"We are really pleased that progress has been made in allowing people to travel and in providing them with the documentation to allow them to do so. Over the last number of months, there has been significant interest in investing in Northern Ireland. Has any progress been made in allowing investors into Northern Ireland in the way that our national Government have allowed exemptions for those who are considering making a significant investment in the country?"},{"speaker":"Mr Swann","text":"I thank the Member for raising the point; as Minister for the Economy, she raised it numerous times. We always review and revise the travel restrictions under the guidance of the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Adviser. The Member will know that the graded and individual exemptions from quarantine or providing proof of vaccination are continually reviewed at UK level. I think that the Member will acknowledge that, as we see vaccines being widely delivered across the world, the proof of vaccination and the certification that can be provided not only at Northern Ireland or UK level but at EU level will allow those individuals who come in to the country to prove vaccination certification to a standard that will allow them to access the country under the traffic light system for guidance on international travel."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202336%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345256","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-07-05&docID=345817#AQO%202336/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345256"}},{"id":"345081","reference":"AQW 20794/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-23","answerBy":"2021-06-28","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the current regulations for bringing pets from NI to GB and back; (ii) what checks are currently being made; (iii) when these regulations/checks will change; and (iv) what conversations he has had with the EU and Westminster government regarding this issue.","answerText":"the current regulations for bringing pets from NI to GB and back;\n\nThe Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs have advised that there will be no new checks or requirements for pets travelling from Northern Ireland (NI) to Great Britain (GB). However, as a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and NI Protocol, the European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation 576/2013 remains directly applicable in NI. This regulation details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pets between or into EU Member States (and also NI). These requirements are therefore now in place for pet travel from GB to NI and include a rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment (for dogs) and appropriate documentation.\n\n(ii) what checks are currently being made;\n\nI announced earlier this year that my Department would not introduce checks on these requirements until 1 July 2021, however, in order to provide much needed clarity, I have taken the decision to further delay routine pet travel checks for citizens travelling from GB to NI with their pets until at least 1 October. This is to allow a further period for the ongoing UK/EU discussions, where pet travel is under consideration, to provide direction on both the requirements necessary and any potential flexibilities. This delay will also allow time for my Department to further publicise, and the public to prepare for, the pet travel conditions that are ultimately agreed.\n\nWhilst the Department will not be conducting routine checks during this period, it is important to note that my officials reserve the right to carry out checks if they suspect illegal activity or have welfare concerns.\n\n(iii) when these regulations/checks will change; and (iv) what conversations he has had with the EU and Westminster government regarding this issue.\n\nI continue to make clear my opposition to what I consider to be completely unnecessary additional measures on those travelling with pets within the UK. I am particularly concerned at the impact they will have on those travelling with assistance pets and also on citizens who wish to travel into or return to NI with their pets for any purpose including leisure, work or to visit family and friends.\n\nI have written to both the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, and to the European Commission, highlighting these issues, particularly the entirely unjustified requirements for rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment, given that both the UK and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) are considered free from both diseases. Furthermore, I have requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between GB, NI and the RoI.\n\nThis matter has also been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission seeking urgent resolution. Although flexibilities from the European Commission have not been forthcoming to date, my officials have been instructed to continue to engage with their counterparts to seek solutions to ease the burden on those travelling with pets between GB and NI. A joint UK/ NI/ RoI working group has met on a number of occasions and my officials continue to engage on these issues as a matter of urgency to consider where flexibilities can be achieved.\n\nIt is my hope that from the discussions and processes outlined above, that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found and I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.\n\nAny progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, along with any changes to the current enforcement approach will be published on the DAERA website https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets and on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021 and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.","answerHtml":"the current regulations for bringing pets from NI to GB and back;
The Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs have advised that there will be no new checks or requirements for pets travelling from Northern Ireland (NI) to Great Britain (GB). However, as a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and NI Protocol, the European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation 576/2013 remains directly applicable in NI. This regulation details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pets between or into EU Member States (and also NI). These requirements are therefore now in place for pet travel from GB to NI and include a rabies vaccination, tapeworm treatment (for dogs) and appropriate documentation.
(ii) what checks are currently being made;
I announced earlier this year that my Department would not introduce checks on these requirements until 1 July 2021, however, in order to provide much needed clarity, I have taken the decision to further delay routine pet travel checks for citizens travelling from GB to NI with their pets until at least 1 October. This is to allow a further period for the ongoing UK/EU discussions, where pet travel is under consideration, to provide direction on both the requirements necessary and any potential flexibilities. This delay will also allow time for my Department to further publicise, and the public to prepare for, the pet travel conditions that are ultimately agreed.
Whilst the Department will not be conducting routine checks during this period, it is important to note that my officials reserve the right to carry out checks if they suspect illegal activity or have welfare concerns.
(iii) when these regulations/checks will change; and (iv) what conversations he has had with the EU and Westminster government regarding this issue.
I continue to make clear my opposition to what I consider to be completely unnecessary additional measures on those travelling with pets within the UK. I am particularly concerned at the impact they will have on those travelling with assistance pets and also on citizens who wish to travel into or return to NI with their pets for any purpose including leisure, work or to visit family and friends.
I have written to both the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, and to the European Commission, highlighting these issues, particularly the entirely unjustified requirements for rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment, given that both the UK and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) are considered free from both diseases. Furthermore, I have requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between GB, NI and the RoI.
This matter has also been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission seeking urgent resolution. Although flexibilities from the European Commission have not been forthcoming to date, my officials have been instructed to continue to engage with their counterparts to seek solutions to ease the burden on those travelling with pets between GB and NI. A joint UK/ NI/ RoI working group has met on a number of occasions and my officials continue to engage on these issues as a matter of urgency to consider where flexibilities can be achieved.
It is my hope that from the discussions and processes outlined above, that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found and I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.
Any progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, along with any changes to the current enforcement approach will be published on the DAERA website https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets and on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021 and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020794%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345081"}},{"id":"345080","reference":"AQW 20793/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-23","answerBy":"2021-07-08","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why the one-off COVID-19 recognition payment to carers could not be made; (ii) to outline the differences between this scheme and other recognition payments already completed; and (iii) how much of the £4.4m has already been committed to rolling out the scheme.","answerText":"As I explained to the House on 15th June, this work has, unfortunately, proven to be significantly more complex and challenging than originally thought and that there are substantial legal, operational and financial impediments. However, I have escalated the issue to the Executive to seek the assistance of all Executive colleagues in taking this forward.\n\nThe main differences between other payment schemes and the one-off payment to carers is that the relevant Departments have the legal powers to make these payments, the recipients were identifiable and verifiable and a mechanism for making the payments was already in place.\n\nThe £4.4m Support for Carers’ Fund was launched in March 2021 to provide support for charities working for and with unpaid carers. This Fund cannot make payments to individuals. Further details on the Fund is available here:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/unpaid-carers-are-backbone-society-swann","answerHtml":"As I explained to the House on 15th June, this work has, unfortunately, proven to be significantly more complex and challenging than originally thought and that there are substantial legal, operational and financial impediments. However, I have escalated the issue to the Executive to seek the assistance of all Executive colleagues in taking this forward.
The main differences between other payment schemes and the one-off payment to carers is that the relevant Departments have the legal powers to make these payments, the recipients were identifiable and verifiable and a mechanism for making the payments was already in place.
The £4.4m Support for Carers’ Fund was launched in March 2021 to provide support for charities working for and with unpaid carers. This Fund cannot make payments to individuals. Further details on the Fund is available here:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/unpaid-carers-are-backbone-society-swann
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020793%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345080"}},{"id":"345079","reference":"AQW 20792/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-23","answerBy":"2021-07-08","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of people in emergency housing in each constituency.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to Homelessness, however it does not record the data requested by Constituency but does record the data at a Local Government level. The table below reflects the number of households in temporary accommodation by council area, as of Monday 28th June 2021.\n\nIt should be noted that the council area refers to the origin of the homelessness application and not where the placement was made.\n\nCouncil Area\tNumber of households in temporary accommodation as of Monday 28th June 2021\nAntrim & Newtownabbey\t88\nArds & North Down\t134\nArmagh, Banbridge & Craigavon\t124\nBelfast\t1,772\nCauseway Coast & Glens\t81\nDerry & Strabane\t520\nFermanagh & Omagh\t112\nLisburn & Castlereagh\t153\nMid & East Antrim\t129\nMid Ulster\t75\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t183\nTotal\t3,371","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to Homelessness, however it does not record the data requested by Constituency but does record the data at a Local Government level. The table below reflects the number of households in temporary accommodation by council area, as of Monday 28th June 2021.
It should be noted that the council area refers to the origin of the homelessness application and not where the placement was made.
| Council Area | Number of households in temporary accommodation as of Monday 28th June 2021 |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey | 88 |
| Ards & North Down | 134 |
| Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon | 124 |
| Belfast | 1,772 |
| Causeway Coast & Glens | 81 |
| Derry & Strabane | 520 |
| Fermanagh & Omagh | 112 |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | 153 |
| Mid & East Antrim | 129 |
| Mid Ulster | 75 |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | 183 |
| Total | 3,371 |
Following the suspension of the Essure device’s CE mark in August 2017, the manufacturer permanently withdrew the device from the EU market on commercial grounds. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) subsequently withdrew its guidance as it was no longer required. This device has not been used in Northern Ireland from August 2017.
When the device was available for use, HSC Trusts have confirmed that a patient information leaflet was available that provided information on benefits, precautions and potential risks.
With regard to dangers and risks, a number of short term risks that a patient may have experienced after the procedure were identified in the leaflet, including mild to moderate pain and allergic reaction to the device. The leaflet also advised that there was a risk of long term pain of varying intensity and length of time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020791%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345078"}},{"id":"345077","reference":"AQW 20790/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-23","answerBy":"2021-07-08","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of people (i) prosecuted; and (ii) convicted of causing unnecessary suffering of service animals since 2015.","answerText":"The information requested in relation to successful prosecutions for offences involving causing unnecessary suffering of service animals is not readily available. Prosecutions and convictions data held in Departmental datasets are on the basis of offence description and there is no specific offence for causing unnecessary suffering of service animals.\n\nTo identify cases which related to causing unnecessary suffering of service animals would require a manual search of case records for causing unnecessary suffering to animals and other animal cruelty offences under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, of which there were 305 dealt with at courts in the period 2015 - 2020. We estimate that to locate, retrieve and extract any information that might be relevant to your request would involve work of more than the appropriate limit.\n\nThe appropriate limit is specified in regulations and for central government is set at £700. It is estimated that to search systems manually for relevant information to identify whether offences for which a conviction was handed down for causing unnecessary suffering of service animals, it will take one member of staff approximately ten minutes per case, giving a total of over 50 hours work. At a cost of £25 per hour, this equates to over £1,250 which is higher than the appropriate limit.","answerHtml":"The information requested in relation to successful prosecutions for offences involving causing unnecessary suffering of service animals is not readily available. Prosecutions and convictions data held in Departmental datasets are on the basis of offence description and there is no specific offence for causing unnecessary suffering of service animals.
To identify cases which related to causing unnecessary suffering of service animals would require a manual search of case records for causing unnecessary suffering to animals and other animal cruelty offences under the Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, of which there were 305 dealt with at courts in the period 2015 - 2020. We estimate that to locate, retrieve and extract any information that might be relevant to your request would involve work of more than the appropriate limit.
The appropriate limit is specified in regulations and for central government is set at £700. It is estimated that to search systems manually for relevant information to identify whether offences for which a conviction was handed down for causing unnecessary suffering of service animals, it will take one member of staff approximately ten minutes per case, giving a total of over 50 hours work. At a cost of £25 per hour, this equates to over £1,250 which is higher than the appropriate limit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020790%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345077"}},{"id":"344910","reference":"AQW 20724/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-22","answerBy":"2021-06-25","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on his plans to introduce a mechanism for Northern Irish travellers to provide confirmation of their COVID-19 vaccination status.","answerText":"My Department is developing a COVID status Validation Service (CVS) that will allow NI residents to provide verified proof of vaccination, recent test or Covid immunity, where required. The service is due to go live in Northern Ireland on or before 19 July.\n\nInitially certificates will be provided in the agreed specialised paper format and an app similar to the NHS app will follow by mid-August. The process of applying for and receiving paper certification is expected to take 10 days. The process requires several security checks to be made, ensuring that personal health and social care information is protected.\n\nThe work takes into account current World Health Organisation (WHO) and EU common standards for COVID status certificates. Any documents produced outside of this CVS are unlikely to meet these standards and therefore cannot be relied upon to meet other countries’ entry requirements. Currently GPs, vaccination centres, the Department of Health and other parts of the health service cannot produce proof of vaccine to the required standard for travel purposes.\n\nThe digital version of certification will also support evidencing of negative PCR COVID tests as an alternative to vaccination.","answerHtml":"My Department is developing a COVID status Validation Service (CVS) that will allow NI residents to provide verified proof of vaccination, recent test or Covid immunity, where required. The service is due to go live in Northern Ireland on or before 19 July.
Initially certificates will be provided in the agreed specialised paper format and an app similar to the NHS app will follow by mid-August. The process of applying for and receiving paper certification is expected to take 10 days. The process requires several security checks to be made, ensuring that personal health and social care information is protected.
The work takes into account current World Health Organisation (WHO) and EU common standards for COVID status certificates. Any documents produced outside of this CVS are unlikely to meet these standards and therefore cannot be relied upon to meet other countries’ entry requirements. Currently GPs, vaccination centres, the Department of Health and other parts of the health service cannot produce proof of vaccine to the required standard for travel purposes.
The digital version of certification will also support evidencing of negative PCR COVID tests as an alternative to vaccination.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020724%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344910"}},{"id":"344909","reference":"AQW 20723/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-22","answerBy":"2021-07-07","answered":"2021-08-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the process by which private tenants whose tenancy is being ended by their landlord can apply for a Housing Executive property; and (ii) the options available for such individuals and families who are unable to find another private tenancy before the end of their current tenancy and for whom a Housing Executive property is unavailable.","answerText":"In relation to (i) the Housing Selection Scheme application process all social housing providers operate through a Common Selection Scheme, through which social tenancies are allocated to eligible applicants from a Common Waiting List. The application process is the same for all persons irrespective of the reason for the application.\n\nThe Housing Executive is responsible for the assessment of all new applications, and upon receipt, will contact the applicant to complete an assessment. Staff investigate whether the applicant is eligible for an allocation of social housing, and determine their housing need in reference to the rules of the Housing Selection Scheme. This discussion will also cover an applicant’s preference for where they would like to be housed, their prospects for rehousing in their area of choice, and can provide advice and assistance on other housing options. If an applicant is homeless or being threatened with homelessness, a further homeless assessment will be carried out.\n\nIf eligible the applicant will be placed on the Common Waiting List. Properties are allocated in order of housing need, with preference given to the earliest application in the event that two or more applicants have the same need. Applicants will remain on the Waiting List for so long as they continue to comply with the rules of the Housing Selection Scheme, until such time as they are rehoused or receive three reasonable offers.\n\nIn relation to (ii), the options available for such individuals and families who are unable to find another private tenancy before the end of their current tenancy and for whom a Housing Executive property is unavailable, the Housing Order 1988 (as amended) places a statutory duty on the Housing Executive to provide interim and/or permanent accommodation for certain homeless households, dependent upon investigations and assessment of their circumstances.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22, which can be accessed via their website.","answerHtml":"In relation to (i) the Housing Selection Scheme application process all social housing providers operate through a Common Selection Scheme, through which social tenancies are allocated to eligible applicants from a Common Waiting List. The application process is the same for all persons irrespective of the reason for the application.
The Housing Executive is responsible for the assessment of all new applications, and upon receipt, will contact the applicant to complete an assessment. Staff investigate whether the applicant is eligible for an allocation of social housing, and determine their housing need in reference to the rules of the Housing Selection Scheme. This discussion will also cover an applicant’s preference for where they would like to be housed, their prospects for rehousing in their area of choice, and can provide advice and assistance on other housing options. If an applicant is homeless or being threatened with homelessness, a further homeless assessment will be carried out.
If eligible the applicant will be placed on the Common Waiting List. Properties are allocated in order of housing need, with preference given to the earliest application in the event that two or more applicants have the same need. Applicants will remain on the Waiting List for so long as they continue to comply with the rules of the Housing Selection Scheme, until such time as they are rehoused or receive three reasonable offers.
In relation to (ii), the options available for such individuals and families who are unable to find another private tenancy before the end of their current tenancy and for whom a Housing Executive property is unavailable, the Housing Order 1988 (as amended) places a statutory duty on the Housing Executive to provide interim and/or permanent accommodation for certain homeless households, dependent upon investigations and assessment of their circumstances.
The Housing Executive’s approach to assisting those who are homeless or threatened with homeless is outlined in the Homelessness Strategy 2017-22, which can be accessed via their website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020723%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344909","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344909"}},{"id":"344908","reference":"AQW 20722/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-22","answerBy":"2021-07-07","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to provide details of the social housing stock in each constituency.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has provided the information in table 1 below.\n\nTable 1 – Housing Executive Stock broken down by parliamentary constituency as of 1st June 2021:\n\nConstituency\t\tTotal\nBelfast East\t\t5395\nBelfast North\t\t9093\nBelfast South\t\t5250\nBelfast West\t\t8983\nEast Antrim\t\t3829\nEast Londonderry\t\t4499\nFermanagh/South Tyrone\t\t3167\nFoyle\t\t6506\nLagan Valley\t\t4332\nMid Ulster\t\t2608\nNewry & Armagh\t\t3866\nNorth Antrim\t\t4713\nNorth Down\t\t3058\nSouth Antrim\t\t3653\nSouth Down\t\t2647\nStrangford\t\t4078\nUpper Bann\t\t5038\nWest Tyrone\t\t3773\nTotal\t\t84488\n\nThe Registered Housing Associations have provided the information in table 2 below. Please note that the RHAs only record this information by Council Area.\n\nTable 2 – RHA Housing Stock broken down by Council Area:\n\nCouncil Area\t\tTotal\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t\t2206\nArds and North Down\t\t3771\nArmagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon\t\t2467\nBelfast City\t\t17489\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t\t1928\nDerry City and Strabane\t\t6225\nFermanagh and Omagh\t\t1361\nLisburn and Castlereagh City\t\t3683\nMid & East Antrim\t\t2406\nMid Ulster\t\t1432\nNewry, Mourne & Down\t\t2797\nTotal\t\t45765","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has provided the information in table 1 below.
Table 1 – Housing Executive Stock broken down by parliamentary constituency as of 1st June 2021:
| Constituency | Total | |
| Belfast East | 5395 | |
| Belfast North | 9093 | |
| Belfast South | 5250 | |
| Belfast West | 8983 | |
| East Antrim | 3829 | |
| East Londonderry | 4499 | |
| Fermanagh/South Tyrone | 3167 | |
| Foyle | 6506 | |
| Lagan Valley | 4332 | |
| Mid Ulster | 2608 | |
| Newry & Armagh | 3866 | |
| North Antrim | 4713 | |
| North Down | 3058 | |
| South Antrim | 3653 | |
| South Down | 2647 | |
| Strangford | 4078 | |
| Upper Bann | 5038 | |
| West Tyrone | 3773 | |
| Total | 84488 |
The Registered Housing Associations have provided the information in table 2 below. Please note that the RHAs only record this information by Council Area.
Table 2 – RHA Housing Stock broken down by Council Area:
| Council Area | Total | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 2206 | |
| Ards and North Down | 3771 | |
| Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon | 2467 | |
| Belfast City | 17489 | |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 1928 | |
| Derry City and Strabane | 6225 | |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 1361 | |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh City | 3683 | |
| Mid & East Antrim | 2406 | |
| Mid Ulster | 1432 | |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | 2797 | |
| Total | 45765 |
Housing Statistics are regularly published at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/topics/housing-statistics. Since 2018 the homelessness bulletin has included a local breakdown of the number of households accepted as homeless. The requested data is not available by Constituency but is available at a Local Government level.
In the interests of clarity I include a summary below with additional data for the years before 2018. The Housing Executive has statutory responsibility for responding to Homelessness and has provided this information:
| *Households accepted as statutorily homeless | |||||
| Council Area | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 |
| Antrim & Newtownabbey | 1,029 | 904 | 1,052 | 936 | 952 |
| Ards & North Down | 986 | 1,160 | 1,156 | 947 | 931 |
| Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon | 542 | 593 | 790 | 694 | 608 |
| Belfast | 3,593 | 3,940 | 3,790 | 3,325 | 2,686 |
| Causeway Coast & Glens | 789 | 716 | 689 | 690 | 579 |
| Derry & Strabane | 1,259 | 1,203 | 1,315 | 1,222 | 1146 |
| Fermanagh & Omagh | 418 | 432 | 467 | 467 | 353 |
| Lisburn & Castlereagh | 928 | 675 | 716 | 756 | 552 |
| Mid & East Antrim | 1,003 | 997 | 1,088 | 1,051 | 928 |
| Mid Ulster | 481 | 468 | 542 | 388 | 362 |
| Newry, Mourne & Down | 861 | 789 | 907 | 847 | 792 |
| Total | 11,889 | 11,877 | 12,512 | 11,323 | 9,889 |
*In order to be “accepted” as statutorily homeless, a household must meet the four tests of:
• Eligibility
• Homelessness
• Priority Need
• Intentionality
Any household that meets these four tests will be accepted as a “Full Duty Applicant” and will be owed a full housing duty. The full housing duty includes ensuring that accommodation is made available for the household as well as the provision of temporary accommodation where necessary and assistance with the protection of the household’s belongings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020721%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344907"}},{"id":"344906","reference":"AQW 20720/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-22","answerBy":"2021-07-07","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the process via which patients in Northern Ireland can avail of cross-border health care, including the patient’s role in organising and covering up front costs of the treatment.","answerText":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme, which I announced on 15th June 2021, has been introduced for a 12 month period from 30th June 2021.\n\nThe Scheme allows patients to seek, and pay for, private treatment in the Republic of Ireland only and have the cost reimbursed by the Health and Social care Board. To use the Scheme, patients must get prior authorisation from the HSCB before they travel for treatment.\n\nFull details and guidance on the Scheme are available on the Health and Social Care Board website at http://www.hscboard.hscni.net/travelfortreatment/.","answerHtml":"The Republic of Ireland Reimbursement Scheme, which I announced on 15th June 2021, has been introduced for a 12 month period from 30th June 2021.
The Scheme allows patients to seek, and pay for, private treatment in the Republic of Ireland only and have the cost reimbursed by the Health and Social care Board. To use the Scheme, patients must get prior authorisation from the HSCB before they travel for treatment.
Full details and guidance on the Scheme are available on the Health and Social Care Board website at http://www.hscboard.hscni.net/travelfortreatment/.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020720%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344906","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344906"}},{"id":"344633","reference":"AQW 20665/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-21","answerBy":"2021-07-06","answered":"2021-08-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of patients diagnosed with cavernoma in each of the last five years; and (ii) the treatment options available for such patients.","answerText":"The number of patients diagnosed with cavernoma is not collected centrally or by Health & Social Care Trusts. Details could only be provided at a disproportionate cost.\n\nMRI scans are mainly used to diagnose cavernomas and the recommended treatment will vary depending on factors such as on a person's circumstances, medical history and additional factors such as the size, location and the number of cavernomas identified. The treatment pathway would be determined on a case by case basis in discussion with the individual patient and specialist neurosurgeon. Types of treatment offered in the UK to reduce the risk of haemorrhage include neurosurgery to remove the cavernoma or stereotactic radiosurgery where a concentrated dose of radiation is aimed directly at the cavernoma causing it to become thickened and scarred and thereby reducing the risk of haemorrhage.","answerHtml":"The number of patients diagnosed with cavernoma is not collected centrally or by Health & Social Care Trusts. Details could only be provided at a disproportionate cost.
MRI scans are mainly used to diagnose cavernomas and the recommended treatment will vary depending on factors such as on a person's circumstances, medical history and additional factors such as the size, location and the number of cavernomas identified. The treatment pathway would be determined on a case by case basis in discussion with the individual patient and specialist neurosurgeon. Types of treatment offered in the UK to reduce the risk of haemorrhage include neurosurgery to remove the cavernoma or stereotactic radiosurgery where a concentrated dose of radiation is aimed directly at the cavernoma causing it to become thickened and scarred and thereby reducing the risk of haemorrhage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020665%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344633","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344633"}},{"id":"344632","reference":"AQW 20664/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-21","answerBy":"2021-07-06","answered":"2021-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of lives lost to suicide in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) collates data on death registrations.\n\nThere are some situations where the registration of the death can be delayed, specifically where the death has been accidental, unexpected or suspicious, and must be referred to the Coroner, only to be registered after completion of the investigation. Such deaths may not appear in published statistics until at least six months after the death occurred. Suicides registered during a particular time will therefore not be reflective of suicides that actually occurred in that period.\n\nAt present, NISRA recommends that users of suicide statistics refer to the subset of ‘self-inflicted injury’ as the most accurate count in relation to trends. This is due to an ongoing review of the coverage of the sub-category ‘undetermined intent’. Further information on the review is available in the guidance note provided at https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/suicide-statistics.\n\nData on number of deaths are available up to the end of March 2021 at Registrar General Quarterly Tables Quarter 1 2021 | Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (nisra.gov.uk). The table provides the number of deaths as a result of self-inflicted injury (ICD code X60-X84 &Y87.0) in each of years 2016 to 2020 and includes data from Quarter 1 2021. Data for the years 2016 to 2019 are final, whereas 2020 & 2021 data are still provisional.\n\nPeriod\tNumber of Death Registrations due to self-inflicted injury(1)\n2016\t149\n2017\t174\n2018\t184\n2019\t192\n2020*\t198\nJan - Mar 2021*\t71\n\n(1) Deaths by self-inflicted injury are a sub-set of suicide deaths; deaths of undetermined intent are excluded.\n\n*provisional","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) collates data on death registrations.
There are some situations where the registration of the death can be delayed, specifically where the death has been accidental, unexpected or suspicious, and must be referred to the Coroner, only to be registered after completion of the investigation. Such deaths may not appear in published statistics until at least six months after the death occurred. Suicides registered during a particular time will therefore not be reflective of suicides that actually occurred in that period.
At present, NISRA recommends that users of suicide statistics refer to the subset of ‘self-inflicted injury’ as the most accurate count in relation to trends. This is due to an ongoing review of the coverage of the sub-category ‘undetermined intent’. Further information on the review is available in the guidance note provided at https://www.nisra.gov.uk/publications/suicide-statistics.
Data on number of deaths are available up to the end of March 2021 at Registrar General Quarterly Tables Quarter 1 2021 | Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (nisra.gov.uk). The table provides the number of deaths as a result of self-inflicted injury (ICD code X60-X84 &Y87.0) in each of years 2016 to 2020 and includes data from Quarter 1 2021. Data for the years 2016 to 2019 are final, whereas 2020 & 2021 data are still provisional.
| Period | Number of Death Registrations due to self-inflicted injury(1) |
| 2016 | 149 |
| 2017 | 174 |
| 2018 | 184 |
| 2019 | 192 |
| 2020* | 198 |
| Jan - Mar 2021* | 71 |
(1) Deaths by self-inflicted injury are a sub-set of suicide deaths; deaths of undetermined intent are excluded.
*provisional
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020664%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344632","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344632"}},{"id":"344631","reference":"AQW 20663/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-21","answerBy":"2021-07-06","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the current breastfeeding levels among new mothers; and for his assessment of any changes to this trend over recent years.","answerText":"In 2020, provisional data from the Northern Ireland Maternity System (NIMATS) shows that breastfeeding was attempted for around six out of ten births (62.5%) in Northern Ireland, a 5.7% increase from 56.8% in 2015. Data also shows that the rate of breastfeeding varies according to the mother’s age, with older mothers generally more likely to attempt breastfeeding. For example, in 2020, 45.6% of mothers aged 20-24 years attempted to breastfeed compared to 67.3% of mothers aged 30-34 years. A similar trend is observed for previous years.\n\nData from the Northern Ireland Child Health System (CHS) shows that there has been an increasing trend in the rate of any breastfeeding at discharge from hospital, from 45.1% in 2015 to 49.2% in 2019 (provisional data). More recent provisional figures from NIMATS for 2020 indicate that 50.4% of infants were receiving any breastmilk at discharge.\n\nNote that data included in this response from the draft Health Intelligence Breastfeeding Brief 2021 currently in development is provisional until publication of the brief.\n\nPrevious briefs are available at https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/directorates/operations/statistics","answerHtml":"In 2020, provisional data from the Northern Ireland Maternity System (NIMATS) shows that breastfeeding was attempted for around six out of ten births (62.5%) in Northern Ireland, a 5.7% increase from 56.8% in 2015. Data also shows that the rate of breastfeeding varies according to the mother’s age, with older mothers generally more likely to attempt breastfeeding. For example, in 2020, 45.6% of mothers aged 20-24 years attempted to breastfeed compared to 67.3% of mothers aged 30-34 years. A similar trend is observed for previous years.
Data from the Northern Ireland Child Health System (CHS) shows that there has been an increasing trend in the rate of any breastfeeding at discharge from hospital, from 45.1% in 2015 to 49.2% in 2019 (provisional data). More recent provisional figures from NIMATS for 2020 indicate that 50.4% of infants were receiving any breastmilk at discharge.
Note that data included in this response from the draft Health Intelligence Breastfeeding Brief 2021 currently in development is provisional until publication of the brief.
Previous briefs are available at https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/directorates/operations/statistics
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020663%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344631","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344631"}},{"id":"344630","reference":"AQW 20662/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-21","answerBy":"2021-07-06","answered":"2021-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the support services available for bereaved parents; and the amount of money spent providing such services, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"A wide range of support services for bereaved parents are available across each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust and delivered in partnership between clinicians, bereavement coordinators and the community and voluntary sector.\n\nIn cases of pregnancy loss, stillbirth or early neonatal death, all Trusts in Northern Ireland have a bereavement midwife who provides support and guidance for bereaved women, partners and their families and ensures that parents receive care that is clinically skilled, emotionally intelligent, consistent and authentically caring. The midwife also works to ensure that all staff within the relevant health settings are educated, supported and enabled to provide sensitive, safe, effective, compassionate, kind and respectful care for families who experience such a loss.\n\nEach Trust has also had a Trust Bereavement Coordinator in place since 2006, when the HSC Bereavement Network was established to provide information, guidance and resources for those who care for and support people around the time of death and bereavement, as well as a Bereavement Forum which meets regularly with a wide membership comprising staff and service users.\n\nThe Network was expanded in April 2021 to become the Northern Ireland Bereavement Network, comprising representation from across Departmental and community organisations and agencies, including two representatives from each HSC Trust, as well as third sector organisations such as SANDS, Cruse, NI Children’s Hospice and NICVA. While the new Network’s website is under development, information on bereavement support is available on individual Trust websites, providing guidance and support on a range of issues and contact information for a number of organisations which specialise in supporting bereaved parents.\n\nDue to the wide range of bereavement support services available across healthcare specialties, professions and settings, it would not be possible to provide a cost breakdown in the format requested without incurring disproportionate costs.","answerHtml":"A wide range of support services for bereaved parents are available across each Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust and delivered in partnership between clinicians, bereavement coordinators and the community and voluntary sector.
In cases of pregnancy loss, stillbirth or early neonatal death, all Trusts in Northern Ireland have a bereavement midwife who provides support and guidance for bereaved women, partners and their families and ensures that parents receive care that is clinically skilled, emotionally intelligent, consistent and authentically caring. The midwife also works to ensure that all staff within the relevant health settings are educated, supported and enabled to provide sensitive, safe, effective, compassionate, kind and respectful care for families who experience such a loss.
Each Trust has also had a Trust Bereavement Coordinator in place since 2006, when the HSC Bereavement Network was established to provide information, guidance and resources for those who care for and support people around the time of death and bereavement, as well as a Bereavement Forum which meets regularly with a wide membership comprising staff and service users.
The Network was expanded in April 2021 to become the Northern Ireland Bereavement Network, comprising representation from across Departmental and community organisations and agencies, including two representatives from each HSC Trust, as well as third sector organisations such as SANDS, Cruse, NI Children’s Hospice and NICVA. While the new Network’s website is under development, information on bereavement support is available on individual Trust websites, providing guidance and support on a range of issues and contact information for a number of organisations which specialise in supporting bereaved parents.
Due to the wide range of bereavement support services available across healthcare specialties, professions and settings, it would not be possible to provide a cost breakdown in the format requested without incurring disproportionate costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020662%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344630","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344630"}},{"id":"344629","reference":"AQW 20661/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-21","answerBy":"2021-07-06","answered":"2021-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on steps, planned and taken, to reduce the negative consequences, such as noise pollution and traffic congestion, for residents near car cruise events in Portstewart and Portrush; and (ii) to detail any meetings she has, and plans to attend, to discuss mitigating the impact of such events on residents.","answerText":"My Department has recently installed additional traffic calming measures, in the form of speed cushions, in the Lansdowne area of Portrush with the aim of limiting vehicle speeds and improving pedestrian safety. I can also confirm that senior officials from my Department are engaging with PSNI and Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council on further measures to reduce the impact of car cruise events in the Portrush and Portstewart areas.\n\nI met recently with local officials in Portrush to see at first-hand some of the action being taken by my Department and I want to emphasise that, as Minister responsible for promoting and improving road safety, my Department will continue to work collaboratively with all partners to deal with the issues you have raised.\n\nI am also committed to ensuring that my officials in the DVA continue to support the PSNI, and other agencies, to conduct compliance checks on vehicles using our roads, taking the appropriate enforcement action as required.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently installed additional traffic calming measures, in the form of speed cushions, in the Lansdowne area of Portrush with the aim of limiting vehicle speeds and improving pedestrian safety. I can also confirm that senior officials from my Department are engaging with PSNI and Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council on further measures to reduce the impact of car cruise events in the Portrush and Portstewart areas.
I met recently with local officials in Portrush to see at first-hand some of the action being taken by my Department and I want to emphasise that, as Minister responsible for promoting and improving road safety, my Department will continue to work collaboratively with all partners to deal with the issues you have raised.
I am also committed to ensuring that my officials in the DVA continue to support the PSNI, and other agencies, to conduct compliance checks on vehicles using our roads, taking the appropriate enforcement action as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020661%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344629","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344629"}},{"id":"343379","reference":"AQW 20593/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-18","answerBy":"2021-07-05","answered":"2021-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail the advice given to schools regarding addressing cyber-bullying between pupils at their school, but which may take place out of school grounds; and (ii) for her assessment of the Addressing Bully in Schools Act’s provision for schools having the power but not the duty to address cyber-bullying between pupils that takes place out of school.","answerText":"The issue of cyber-bullying between pupils requires a recognition of those circumstances in which schools should intervene; and those where the responsibility to act lies with the parents and guardians of pupils involved.\n\nThe Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (NI) introduces a new power explicitly for schools to include measures within their discipline policy to address cyber-bullying incidents, occurring outside normal boundaries, where the cyber-bullying is likely to have a detrimental effect on the pupil’s ongoing education in school.\n\nIt will be for the Board of Governors to consider and make clear exactly within the schools anti-bullying policy what it will and will not do in responding to cyber-bullying allegations. Guidance to accompany the Act provides greater clarity for schools, parents and pupils on where the boundaries of responsibility lie and what options are available to parents when a school is unable to take action. The Education Authority will provide support to schools in implementation.\n\nI recognise that cyber-bullying is a particularly complex area and it will be for individual schools to decide what use they make of this power.","answerHtml":"The issue of cyber-bullying between pupils requires a recognition of those circumstances in which schools should intervene; and those where the responsibility to act lies with the parents and guardians of pupils involved.
The Addressing Bullying in Schools Act (NI) introduces a new power explicitly for schools to include measures within their discipline policy to address cyber-bullying incidents, occurring outside normal boundaries, where the cyber-bullying is likely to have a detrimental effect on the pupil’s ongoing education in school.
It will be for the Board of Governors to consider and make clear exactly within the schools anti-bullying policy what it will and will not do in responding to cyber-bullying allegations. Guidance to accompany the Act provides greater clarity for schools, parents and pupils on where the boundaries of responsibility lie and what options are available to parents when a school is unable to take action. The Education Authority will provide support to schools in implementation.
I recognise that cyber-bullying is a particularly complex area and it will be for individual schools to decide what use they make of this power.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020593%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=343379","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=343379"}},{"id":"343378","reference":"AQW 20592/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-18","answerBy":"2021-07-05","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether the cancellation of AQE tests due to the COVID-19 pandemic is considered among the exceptional circumstances that must be proven to the Exceptional Circumstances Body in order to successfully appeal a decision by a post-primary school not to accept a pupil; (ii) the reasons for this; and (iii) whether this decision would be affected by a letter from a pupil’s primary school principal attesting the pupil would have been expected to perform well enough in the AQE test to secure a place in their chosen post-primary school under normal circumstances.","answerText":"I appreciate that this has been a difficult year for those pupils for whom the transfer tests were cancelled and particularly those who did not get into a school of their choice.\n\nThe Exceptional Circumstances Body (ECB) is not part of the normal post primary transfer procedure. It is an entirely separate process which operates independently of my Department. While departmental staff provide a secretariat service, officials have no input to, or influence over, the decisions of the Body.\n\nThe ECB considers cases where a young person, because of their exceptional and personal circumstances, has to attend a specified school and no other. Panels of experts consider cases on an individual basis and the onus is on Applicants to provide evidence of exceptional circumstances for a panel to consider. For example, evidence in support of an application can include input from a social worker, a doctor or the child’s primary school. Indeed it is important that an application is supported by as much evidence as an Applicant considers necessary.\n\nBefore considering making an application to the ECB, parents will wish to satisfy themselves that three tests considered by a Panel are met. The tests are:\n\nthe circumstances are exceptional;\n\nthe circumstances are personal to the child in respect of whom the application is made; and\n\nthe child can only attend the school specified in the application.","answerHtml":"I appreciate that this has been a difficult year for those pupils for whom the transfer tests were cancelled and particularly those who did not get into a school of their choice.
The Exceptional Circumstances Body (ECB) is not part of the normal post primary transfer procedure. It is an entirely separate process which operates independently of my Department. While departmental staff provide a secretariat service, officials have no input to, or influence over, the decisions of the Body.
The ECB considers cases where a young person, because of their exceptional and personal circumstances, has to attend a specified school and no other. Panels of experts consider cases on an individual basis and the onus is on Applicants to provide evidence of exceptional circumstances for a panel to consider. For example, evidence in support of an application can include input from a social worker, a doctor or the child’s primary school. Indeed it is important that an application is supported by as much evidence as an Applicant considers necessary.
Before considering making an application to the ECB, parents will wish to satisfy themselves that three tests considered by a Panel are met. The tests are:
the circumstances are exceptional;
the circumstances are personal to the child in respect of whom the application is made; and
the child can only attend the school specified in the application.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020592%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=343378","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=343378"}},{"id":"343377","reference":"AQW 20591/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-18","answerBy":"2021-07-05","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the proportion of post-primary schools that are using pupils’ predicted AQE grades in determining first year admissions for the school year commencing 2021.","answerText":"My Department is not aware of any post-primary school that has used pupils’ predicted AQE grades to determine Year 8 admission for September 2021.","answerHtml":"My Department is not aware of any post-primary school that has used pupils’ predicted AQE grades to determine Year 8 admission for September 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020591%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=343377","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=343377"}},{"id":"343376","reference":"AQW 20590/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-18","answerBy":"2021-07-05","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the number of houses, bought under the Right to Buy scheme, that are now being rented by private landlords; and (ii) for her assessment of how this trend is affecting the quality of life and economic well-being of the communities in which this is happening.","answerText":"The Housing Executive does not maintain a record of the number of houses, bought under the Right to Buy scheme, that are now being rented by private landlords, however, a research survey (40 years of the House Sales Scheme Outcome and Experiences 1979-2019:\n\nwww.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Research/House-Sales-Scheme-Report/House-Sales-Scheme-Report.aspx), carried out for the Housing Executive in 2019, indicated that around 26,670 sold former Housing Executive properties were rented from a private landlord at the time of the research. This represented around 22% of the properties sold to tenants by the Housing Executive over the life of the House Sales Scheme up to November 2018, when the sample for the survey was drawn.\n\nThe survey did not examine community quality of life or economic well-being, however, it did include a number of questions on housing costs for renters","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive does not maintain a record of the number of houses, bought under the Right to Buy scheme, that are now being rented by private landlords, however, a research survey (40 years of the House Sales Scheme Outcome and Experiences 1979-2019:
www.nihe.gov.uk/Documents/Research/House-Sales-Scheme-Report/House-Sales-Scheme-Report.aspx), carried out for the Housing Executive in 2019, indicated that around 26,670 sold former Housing Executive properties were rented from a private landlord at the time of the research. This represented around 22% of the properties sold to tenants by the Housing Executive over the life of the House Sales Scheme up to November 2018, when the sample for the survey was drawn.
The survey did not examine community quality of life or economic well-being, however, it did include a number of questions on housing costs for renters
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020590%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=343376","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=343376"}},{"id":"342155","reference":"AQW 20539/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-07-02","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether there are currently sufficient additional numbers of trained driving examiners to staff the proposed temporary driving test centres in (a) Coleraine; (b) Belfast; (c) Omagh; and (d) Cookstown; and (ii) what steps have been taken to increase the number of driving teachers and examiners to deal with the backlog of learner drivers.","answerText":"The Driver Vehicle Agency (DVA) currently has 38 full time driving examiners and 39 dual role examiners who conduct both vehicle and driving tests. While it regulates the Instructor industry, it does not employ any driving instructors.\n\nThe DVA has identified four additional departmental buildings in Belfast, Coleraine, Cookstown and Omagh, which can be used as temporary driving test centres, if they are needed in the local area and there is sufficient driving examiner capacity. The new temporary test centres at Cookstown and Omagh have now opened for appointments\n\nThe DVA has, and continues, to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those who are required to take a further driving test. Through increasing its capacity in May, the DVA conducted 5,476 driving tests which is 35% higher than the five year average for that month.\n\nThe DVA has introduced a range of measures to maximise the availability of test slots, including the recruitment of additional temporary and permanent vehicle examiners, which will free up the dual role examiners to conduct more tests. Additionally, a further 10 new dual role examiners have been identified for driving examiner training. The first of these examiners is now conducting Category B (private car) driving tests and a further tranche, if they successfully complete their training, will commence driver testing by mid-July. The DVA is also currently progressing an external recruitment competition for 10 new full-time driving examiners.\n\nThe DVA continues to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. Additional slots are therefore being made available from now until the end of October and the DVA will soon be releasing appointments for November.\n\nI remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and we would ask customers for their continued patience.","answerHtml":"The Driver Vehicle Agency (DVA) currently has 38 full time driving examiners and 39 dual role examiners who conduct both vehicle and driving tests. While it regulates the Instructor industry, it does not employ any driving instructors.
The DVA has identified four additional departmental buildings in Belfast, Coleraine, Cookstown and Omagh, which can be used as temporary driving test centres, if they are needed in the local area and there is sufficient driving examiner capacity. The new temporary test centres at Cookstown and Omagh have now opened for appointments
The DVA has, and continues, to work hard to increase its capacity to help meet the high demand for driving tests for all customers, including those who are required to take a further driving test. Through increasing its capacity in May, the DVA conducted 5,476 driving tests which is 35% higher than the five year average for that month.
The DVA has introduced a range of measures to maximise the availability of test slots, including the recruitment of additional temporary and permanent vehicle examiners, which will free up the dual role examiners to conduct more tests. Additionally, a further 10 new dual role examiners have been identified for driving examiner training. The first of these examiners is now conducting Category B (private car) driving tests and a further tranche, if they successfully complete their training, will commence driver testing by mid-July. The DVA is also currently progressing an external recruitment competition for 10 new full-time driving examiners.
The DVA continues to offer driving tests on a Saturday and at certain centres on Sundays where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. Overtime will also be used to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide further capacity. Additional slots are therefore being made available from now until the end of October and the DVA will soon be releasing appointments for November.
I remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plans for the restoration of services is in hand. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times and we would ask customers for their continued patience.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020539%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=342155","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=342155"}},{"id":"342154","reference":"AQW 20538/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-07-02","answered":"2021-08-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on those suffering from schizophrenia; and (ii) which related services and supporting networks remain unavailable or curtailed as a result of COVID-19 rules and regulations.","answerText":"It is accepted that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on people with existing mental ill health, including people suffering from schizophrenia. It is clear from international research and qualitative information in Northern Ireland that those with schizophrenia has been disproportionally effected by both COVID-19 and the associated restrictions.\n\nThroughout the pandemic mental health services have not stopped, and many support service for people with schizophrenia has continued. I am very thankful for the frontline staff and community and voluntary sector workers who have kept this going during these difficult times. I do, however, accept that some support services were stopped which has had a negative impact.\n\nThe new Mental Health Strategy seeks to improve mental health services for all people, including those with severe and enduring mental ill health and their families. I published the Strategy on 29th June 2021, and I can assure you that this patient group has not been forgotten.","answerHtml":"It is accepted that the Covid-19 pandemic has had a negative impact on people with existing mental ill health, including people suffering from schizophrenia. It is clear from international research and qualitative information in Northern Ireland that those with schizophrenia has been disproportionally effected by both COVID-19 and the associated restrictions.
Throughout the pandemic mental health services have not stopped, and many support service for people with schizophrenia has continued. I am very thankful for the frontline staff and community and voluntary sector workers who have kept this going during these difficult times. I do, however, accept that some support services were stopped which has had a negative impact.
The new Mental Health Strategy seeks to improve mental health services for all people, including those with severe and enduring mental ill health and their families. I published the Strategy on 29th June 2021, and I can assure you that this patient group has not been forgotten.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020538%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=342154","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=342154"}},{"id":"342153","reference":"AQW 20537/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-07-02","answered":"2021-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many calls were made to hotlines that support people in crisis or with mental health conditions in each of the last five years; (ii) for her assessment of the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the demand for these services; and (iii) what (a) funding; and (b) other support, her Department has given to the providers of these services in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department does not operate mental health support helplines, this would fall under the remit of Department of Health.","answerHtml":"My Department does not operate mental health support helplines, this would fall under the remit of Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020537%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=342153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=342153"}},{"id":"342152","reference":"AQW 20536/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-07-02","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of organs donated; (ii) the number of deceased people who donated organs; (iii) the number of people on the organ transplant waiting list; and (iv) the number of people who died while on the transplant waiting list, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The information requested is not collected centrally within the Department. The NHS Blood and Transplant Service were approached for this information, which is provided in the tables below. The information is based on postcode of residence and provided for Northern Irish postcodes only.\n\nTable 1 - Organ transplants for NI residents.\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nTotal\t158\t183\t158\t155\t185\n\nTable 2 - Organs donated from deceased donors with NI residence.\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nTotal\t160\t139\t138\t142\t162\n\nTable 3 - Organ transplant waiting list for NI residents.\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nTotal\t177\t137\t143\t147\t115\n\nNote: Excludes patients temporarily suspended from the transplant list.\n\nTable 4 – NI resident deaths while on the organ transplant list.\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nTotal\t13\t18\t12\t12\t15\n\nNote: Includes cases where patient was removed from transplant list due to deterioration and then died within one year.\n\nSource: NHS Blood and Transplant Service","answerHtml":"The information requested is not collected centrally within the Department. The NHS Blood and Transplant Service were approached for this information, which is provided in the tables below. The information is based on postcode of residence and provided for Northern Irish postcodes only.
| Table 1 - Organ transplants for NI residents. | |||||
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | |
| Total | 158 | 183 | 158 | 155 | 185 |
| Table 2 - Organs donated from deceased donors with NI residence. | |||||
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | |
| Total | 160 | 139 | 138 | 142 | 162 |
| Table 3 - Organ transplant waiting list for NI residents. | |||||
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | |
| Total | 177 | 137 | 143 | 147 | 115 |
| Note: Excludes patients temporarily suspended from the transplant list. |
| Table 4 – NI resident deaths while on the organ transplant list. | |||||
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | |
| Total | 13 | 18 | 12 | 12 | 15 |
| Note: Includes cases where patient was removed from transplant list due to deterioration and then died within one year. |
Source: NHS Blood and Transplant Service
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020536%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=342152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=342152"}},{"id":"342151","reference":"AQW 20535/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-07-02","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any engagement he is planning with care home workers in relation to Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021 and the issues raised by the campaign, including public awareness; and (ii) any previous engagement he has had with care home staff in relation to this campaign.","answerText":"Although I have not received any correspondence in relation to the ‘Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021,’ I have stated on many occasions that I fully recognise and appreciate the hard work and dedication of staff working across the statutory and independent care sectors and the significant strain they have worked under over this very challenging period.\n\nSince taking office I have visited a number of care homes and have had the privilege of meeting staff working in those care homes. In addition my officials and I continue to engage with representatives of Independent Care Providers, Unions and Older People’s Groups to ensure that issues can be addressed and the best quality of care achieved.\n\nI would therefore be happy to support ‘Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021.’","answerHtml":"Although I have not received any correspondence in relation to the ‘Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021,’ I have stated on many occasions that I fully recognise and appreciate the hard work and dedication of staff working across the statutory and independent care sectors and the significant strain they have worked under over this very challenging period.
Since taking office I have visited a number of care homes and have had the privilege of meeting staff working in those care homes. In addition my officials and I continue to engage with representatives of Independent Care Providers, Unions and Older People’s Groups to ensure that issues can be addressed and the best quality of care achieved.
I would therefore be happy to support ‘Glad to Care Awareness Week 2021.’
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020535%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=342151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=342151"}},{"id":"345592","reference":"AQO 2316/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-17","answerBy":"2021-06-29","answered":"2021-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the steps she is taking to ensure that pupils with special educational needs are able to attend their nearest school.","answerText":"Each year children are identified as requiring either a new, or change of school placement as a result of the Statutory Assessment and Statementing process or by way of Annual Review of their existing Statement. These processes specify the type of school which would be appropriate to meet the needs of the child and are not part of the open enrolment process.\n\nIn October 2020, the Education Authority (EA) established a cross directorate, multi-disciplinary group to support the placement of pupils with a Statement of SEN in both special schools and specialist provisions in mainstream\n\nThis work included forecasting pupil needs, the type of SEN placements required, mapping pupils to their nearest schools, where appropriate, and establishing additional interim provision in either special school or specialist provision in mainstream and hiring additional staff where required.\n\nDepartment officials have been working with the EA through a number of fora to support and monitor progress, and to ensure sufficient resources are in place to ensure that every child has a high quality placement appropriate to their individual needs. The Permanent Secretary monitor’s developments through a regular oversight group, and the issue is also a standing item at the EA Governance and Accountability Review (GAR) meetings.\n\nThe majority of parents will have already received their child’s amended statement with their placement for September 2021. Where placements have not yet been confirmed, the EA’s SEN Team will work directly with parents to update them on their individual consultation process.","answerHtml":"Each year children are identified as requiring either a new, or change of school placement as a result of the Statutory Assessment and Statementing process or by way of Annual Review of their existing Statement. These processes specify the type of school which would be appropriate to meet the needs of the child and are not part of the open enrolment process.
In October 2020, the Education Authority (EA) established a cross directorate, multi-disciplinary group to support the placement of pupils with a Statement of SEN in both special schools and specialist provisions in mainstream
This work included forecasting pupil needs, the type of SEN placements required, mapping pupils to their nearest schools, where appropriate, and establishing additional interim provision in either special school or specialist provision in mainstream and hiring additional staff where required.
Department officials have been working with the EA through a number of fora to support and monitor progress, and to ensure sufficient resources are in place to ensure that every child has a high quality placement appropriate to their individual needs. The Permanent Secretary monitor’s developments through a regular oversight group, and the issue is also a standing item at the EA Governance and Accountability Review (GAR) meetings.
The majority of parents will have already received their child’s amended statement with their placement for September 2021. Where placements have not yet been confirmed, the EA’s SEN Team will work directly with parents to update them on their individual consultation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202316%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=345592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=345592"}},{"id":"341842","reference":"AQW 20403/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-15","answerBy":"2021-06-30","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the estimated number of unpaid carers that would qualify for Carers’ Allowance; and (ii) the corresponding cost.","answerText":"The Department for Communities does not hold data on the total number of people who care, unpaid, for a friend or family member.\n\nMy Department has responsibility for administering Carer’s Allowance. I am aware that the benefit caseload numbers will not fully capture all of those people in our community that provide some degree of unpaid care and support for an ill, older or disabled family member, or friend. However, the most recent figures available from February 2021 indicate that the number of claimants entitled to Carer’s Allowance here is 75,210 people.\n\nIn terms of cost, my Department provided approximately £182 million in support to carers in receipt of Carer’s Allowance in the 2020-21 financial year. Since 2011 the Department for Communities has paid over £1,507 million (i.e. £1.5 billion) to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance here.\n\nThe Department for Communities has a ‘Make the Call Wraparound Service’ with the aim to ensure that every individual and household here is receiving all the social security benefits and other supports and services to which they and their families are entitled. The number of successful claims to Carer’s Allowance following Make the Call assistance in 2019/20 was 624.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities does not hold data on the total number of people who care, unpaid, for a friend or family member.
My Department has responsibility for administering Carer’s Allowance. I am aware that the benefit caseload numbers will not fully capture all of those people in our community that provide some degree of unpaid care and support for an ill, older or disabled family member, or friend. However, the most recent figures available from February 2021 indicate that the number of claimants entitled to Carer’s Allowance here is 75,210 people.
In terms of cost, my Department provided approximately £182 million in support to carers in receipt of Carer’s Allowance in the 2020-21 financial year. Since 2011 the Department for Communities has paid over £1,507 million (i.e. £1.5 billion) to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance here.
The Department for Communities has a ‘Make the Call Wraparound Service’ with the aim to ensure that every individual and household here is receiving all the social security benefits and other supports and services to which they and their families are entitled. The number of successful claims to Carer’s Allowance following Make the Call assistance in 2019/20 was 624.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020403%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341842"}},{"id":"341841","reference":"AQW 20402/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-15","answerBy":"2021-06-30","answered":"2021-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on the High Street Stimulus Scheme, including where vouchers may be spent and the expected roll-out date.","answerText":"The High Street Scheme is a cornerstone of this Department’s Economic Recovery Action Plan and one of the largest and most innovative responses to tackling the consequences of the pandemic for local businesses.\n\nThe Scheme will provide practical support in helping businesses recover from the pandemic. It is a £140 million financial injection to support our town and city centres and will help safeguard local jobs and businesses.\n\nThe scheme will provide every person resident in Northern Ireland, aged 18 and over, with a pre-paid card worth £100. The scheme should be launched towards the end of the summer and the card can be used in any local business that has the facility to accept card payments. The only exceptions are for online purchases, gambling or to pay for financial or legal services.\n\nThe finer detail of the scheme continues to be worked though by officials and further information will be made available through a multi-media advertising campaign to reach all audiences, prior to its implementation.","answerHtml":"The High Street Scheme is a cornerstone of this Department’s Economic Recovery Action Plan and one of the largest and most innovative responses to tackling the consequences of the pandemic for local businesses.
The Scheme will provide practical support in helping businesses recover from the pandemic. It is a £140 million financial injection to support our town and city centres and will help safeguard local jobs and businesses.
The scheme will provide every person resident in Northern Ireland, aged 18 and over, with a pre-paid card worth £100. The scheme should be launched towards the end of the summer and the card can be used in any local business that has the facility to accept card payments. The only exceptions are for online purchases, gambling or to pay for financial or legal services.
The finer detail of the scheme continues to be worked though by officials and further information will be made available through a multi-media advertising campaign to reach all audiences, prior to its implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020402%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341841"}},{"id":"341840","reference":"AQW 20401/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-15","answerBy":"2021-06-30","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the provision of religious counsel in each of Northern Ireland’s prisons, including the number of hours during which priests/ministers and other religious leaders are available.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) recognises and respects the right of prisoners to register and practice their faith whilst in custody. Chaplaincy and pastoral care is available to all prisoners, including those with no professed faith. The current Chaplaincy Model focuses on three core activities; committals, conducting services and prisoner in crisis.\n\nNIPS provide funding to the five main churches (Catholic Church, Church of Ireland, Presbyterian, Methodist, Free Presbyterian) and the Muslim faith towards the cost of providing religious counsel in all three establishments. The Chaplaincy budget is allocated to each denomination/faith based on the average daily prisoner population per denomination/faith. The Churches then determine how many Chaplains they deploy in each prison and how many hours they work. Chaplains are available seven days a week during normal working hours and the Lead Co-ordinating Chaplain in each prison covers any urgent chaplaincy requirement outside of normal working hours.\n\nLead Chaplains can arrange for representatives of other denominations, faiths or beliefs to provide religious counsel or pastoral support as required.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) recognises and respects the right of prisoners to register and practice their faith whilst in custody. Chaplaincy and pastoral care is available to all prisoners, including those with no professed faith. The current Chaplaincy Model focuses on three core activities; committals, conducting services and prisoner in crisis.
NIPS provide funding to the five main churches (Catholic Church, Church of Ireland, Presbyterian, Methodist, Free Presbyterian) and the Muslim faith towards the cost of providing religious counsel in all three establishments. The Chaplaincy budget is allocated to each denomination/faith based on the average daily prisoner population per denomination/faith. The Churches then determine how many Chaplains they deploy in each prison and how many hours they work. Chaplains are available seven days a week during normal working hours and the Lead Co-ordinating Chaplain in each prison covers any urgent chaplaincy requirement outside of normal working hours.
Lead Chaplains can arrange for representatives of other denominations, faiths or beliefs to provide religious counsel or pastoral support as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020401%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341840"}},{"id":"341839","reference":"AQW 20400/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-15","answerBy":"2021-06-30","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any conversations he has had with the Westminster government regarding off-shoring of carbon emissions, in sectors such as farming, as a result of trade deals.","answerText":"Trade agreements is a reserved matter and it is for the UK Government to ensure that issues such as off-shoring of carbon emissions are adequately addressed in trade deals. I have expressed to UK Government Ministers the need to ensure continued tariff protection for sensitive agricultural products and furthermore to take into account the fact that trade partners may not make the same commitments as the UK to address climate change. I am concerned about aspects of the agreement in principle recently concluded with Australia given the potential for increased imports of beef and sheep products into the UK.","answerHtml":"Trade agreements is a reserved matter and it is for the UK Government to ensure that issues such as off-shoring of carbon emissions are adequately addressed in trade deals. I have expressed to UK Government Ministers the need to ensure continued tariff protection for sensitive agricultural products and furthermore to take into account the fact that trade partners may not make the same commitments as the UK to address climate change. I am concerned about aspects of the agreement in principle recently concluded with Australia given the potential for increased imports of beef and sheep products into the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020400%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341839"}},{"id":"341838","reference":"AQW 20399/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-15","answerBy":"2021-06-30","answered":"2022-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the UK’s new free trade deal with Australia and its potential impact on farming in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The UK Government came to an agreement in principle with Australia on a free trade agreement on 15 June. While there will be aspects of the agreement that will benefit Northern Ireland exporters, I am concerned that they do not provide adequate protection for UK agricultural producers. I am particularly concerned about the size of the tariff rate quotas which have been agreed for beef and sheep products as these quotas are too large to offer protection to domestic producers and after 15 years there will be no quotas at all. On the issue of standards, the UK Government maintains that all imports with have to meet UK SPS requirements and beef produced using hormones as growth promoters will not be permitted to enter into the UK. That aspect of the agreement is welcome and will be scrutinised by the Trade and Agriculture Commission prior to Parliamentary approval.\n\nI have long maintained that tariff and quota protection must be retained for sensitive agricultural products and have emphasised the importance of this to UK Government Ministers. I have written to Defra Secretary of State George Eustice to express my strong opposition to the prospect of a zero tariff, zero quota Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and Australia. I have also met with, and subsequently wrote to the Minister of State for Trade Policy, Greg Hands MP to outline my concerns. I will continue to pursue these matters with the Government.","answerHtml":"The UK Government came to an agreement in principle with Australia on a free trade agreement on 15 June. While there will be aspects of the agreement that will benefit Northern Ireland exporters, I am concerned that they do not provide adequate protection for UK agricultural producers. I am particularly concerned about the size of the tariff rate quotas which have been agreed for beef and sheep products as these quotas are too large to offer protection to domestic producers and after 15 years there will be no quotas at all. On the issue of standards, the UK Government maintains that all imports with have to meet UK SPS requirements and beef produced using hormones as growth promoters will not be permitted to enter into the UK. That aspect of the agreement is welcome and will be scrutinised by the Trade and Agriculture Commission prior to Parliamentary approval.
I have long maintained that tariff and quota protection must be retained for sensitive agricultural products and have emphasised the importance of this to UK Government Ministers. I have written to Defra Secretary of State George Eustice to express my strong opposition to the prospect of a zero tariff, zero quota Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the UK and Australia. I have also met with, and subsequently wrote to the Minister of State for Trade Policy, Greg Hands MP to outline my concerns. I will continue to pursue these matters with the Government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020399%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341838"}},{"id":"341637","reference":"AQW 20340/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-14","answerBy":"2021-06-29","answered":"2021-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the current policy on first aid training in (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary schools.","answerText":"The curriculum is not designed to prescribe detailed lists of compulsory subject content; rather it allows schools appropriate autonomy to meet the needs of their pupils. This flexibility encourages more innovative and customised approaches to ensuring our young people are both safe and well-informed.\n\nWithin the curriculum there are opportunities to cover first aid training, including CPR skills, through ‘Personal Development and Mutual Understanding’ in primary school and ‘Learning for Life and Work’ in post-primary school. This could be supported further through concurrent study in subjects such as Citizenship Education, Physical Education and Science.","answerHtml":"The curriculum is not designed to prescribe detailed lists of compulsory subject content; rather it allows schools appropriate autonomy to meet the needs of their pupils. This flexibility encourages more innovative and customised approaches to ensuring our young people are both safe and well-informed.
Within the curriculum there are opportunities to cover first aid training, including CPR skills, through ‘Personal Development and Mutual Understanding’ in primary school and ‘Learning for Life and Work’ in post-primary school. This could be supported further through concurrent study in subjects such as Citizenship Education, Physical Education and Science.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020340%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341637","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341637"}},{"id":"341636","reference":"AQW 20339/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-14","answerBy":"2021-06-29","answered":"2021-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the effect that fuel payments to carers in the community by Health and Social Care Trusts has on the recipient’s universal credit.","answerText":"The treatment of fuel payments on a recipient’s Universal Credit depends on whether they are deemed taxable by Revenue and Customs\n\nPayments deemed to be taxable by Revenue and Customs will be treated as earnings for UC purposes and treated accordingly. Payments deemed to be non-taxable will not be treated as earnings and will be excluded from any UC calculations. For example, a payment in respect of fuel which is included with the recipient’s salary each month would be treated as taxable earnings whereas a separate claim for reimbursement for fuel costs already incurred by the recipient would not be considered as taxable earnings.","answerHtml":"The treatment of fuel payments on a recipient’s Universal Credit depends on whether they are deemed taxable by Revenue and Customs
Payments deemed to be taxable by Revenue and Customs will be treated as earnings for UC purposes and treated accordingly. Payments deemed to be non-taxable will not be treated as earnings and will be excluded from any UC calculations. For example, a payment in respect of fuel which is included with the recipient’s salary each month would be treated as taxable earnings whereas a separate claim for reimbursement for fuel costs already incurred by the recipient would not be considered as taxable earnings.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020339%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341636","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341636"}},{"id":"341635","reference":"AQW 20338/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-14","answerBy":"2021-06-29","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what steps she has taken to provide sports clubs and organisations with defibrillators.","answerText":"You may be aware that in 2015 my colleague Carál Ní Chuilín MLA gave a commitment to increase the number of accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at community level through sport. As a result, my Department invested circa £940,000 to support the aims of the Community Resuscitation Strategy over the period 2016 to 2018. This funding has also contributed significantly towards ‘Creating a Community of Lifesavers’.\n\nThe two year programme called ‘Defibrillators for Sport’, aimed to increase the number of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) available in community settings by allocating over 1290 free AED devices to sports clubs and community groups across the north. Successful applicants also received CPR training and instructions on the safe usage and maintenance of their new devices with over 1000 people being trained.\n\nThe defibrillators were distributed through Sport NI to Sports Clubs and Community Groups with the aim that use of the AEDs would not only cover incidents related to Club activities but that the defibrillators would also be available for community use in the event of local emergencies.\n\nThe AEDs distributed to clubs and organisations have been included in mapping exercise by the Ambulance Service who recorded the locations of all the devices. This enables accurate information to be given by their operators when an emergency call is received.","answerHtml":"You may be aware that in 2015 my colleague Carál Ní Chuilín MLA gave a commitment to increase the number of accessible automated external defibrillators (AEDs) at community level through sport. As a result, my Department invested circa £940,000 to support the aims of the Community Resuscitation Strategy over the period 2016 to 2018. This funding has also contributed significantly towards ‘Creating a Community of Lifesavers’.
The two year programme called ‘Defibrillators for Sport’, aimed to increase the number of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) available in community settings by allocating over 1290 free AED devices to sports clubs and community groups across the north. Successful applicants also received CPR training and instructions on the safe usage and maintenance of their new devices with over 1000 people being trained.
The defibrillators were distributed through Sport NI to Sports Clubs and Community Groups with the aim that use of the AEDs would not only cover incidents related to Club activities but that the defibrillators would also be available for community use in the event of local emergencies.
The AEDs distributed to clubs and organisations have been included in mapping exercise by the Ambulance Service who recorded the locations of all the devices. This enables accurate information to be given by their operators when an emergency call is received.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020338%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341635","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341635"}},{"id":"341634","reference":"AQW 20337/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-14","answerBy":"2021-06-29","answered":"2021-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the various treatment options for people suffering from mental health problems.","answerText":"Mental health services in Northern Ireland are provided through a Stepped Care Framework on the basis of individual assessed need.\n\nStep 1: Self-directed help and wellbeing services.\n\nStep 2: Primary Care Talking Therapies.\n\nStep 3: Specialist Community Mental Health Services.\n\nStep 4: Highly Specialist Condition Specific Mental Health Services.\n\nStep 5: High Intensity Mental Health Services.\n\nThe care pathway recognises that access to treatment and care needs to be personalised, recovery orientated and provide the person with the right level of support, stepping up to intensive specialist services as needs require.\n\nA key element of improving service delivery and positive mental health outcomes for people is the implementation of the new Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, which I anticipate publishing in the summer. The Strategy will set the future strategic direction of mental health services in Northern Ireland for the next decade, and will take full cognisance of the impact of the pandemic.","answerHtml":"Mental health services in Northern Ireland are provided through a Stepped Care Framework on the basis of individual assessed need.
Step 1: Self-directed help and wellbeing services.
Step 2: Primary Care Talking Therapies.
Step 3: Specialist Community Mental Health Services.
Step 4: Highly Specialist Condition Specific Mental Health Services.
Step 5: High Intensity Mental Health Services.
The care pathway recognises that access to treatment and care needs to be personalised, recovery orientated and provide the person with the right level of support, stepping up to intensive specialist services as needs require.
A key element of improving service delivery and positive mental health outcomes for people is the implementation of the new Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, which I anticipate publishing in the summer. The Strategy will set the future strategic direction of mental health services in Northern Ireland for the next decade, and will take full cognisance of the impact of the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020337%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341634","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341634"}},{"id":"341633","reference":"AQW 20336/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-14","answerBy":"2021-06-29","answered":"2021-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the method of diagnosis used to confirm cases of long COVID; and (ii) the number of people who have been diagnosed with the condition.","answerText":"The rapid guideline from NICE on ‘management of the long-term effects of COVID-19’ defines post-COVID-19 syndrome as:\n\nSigns and symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with COVID-19, continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis.\n\nIt usually presents with clusters of symptoms, often overlapping, which can fluctuate and change over time and can affect any system in the body. Post-COVID-19 syndrome may be considered before 12 weeks while the possibility of an alternative underlying disease is also being assessed.\n\nAlthough the recording of data on the condition continues in Northern Ireland, there will be insufficient data to conduct analysis for a number of months. In the interim, the available evidence and research on prevalence at the UK level continues to be monitored.\n\nA recent publication by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimated that 1 million people in private households in the UK reported experiencing long COVID. This relates to self-reported long COVID, rather than clinically diagnosed ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome. Of those people 21,000 were from Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The rapid guideline from NICE on ‘management of the long-term effects of COVID-19’ defines post-COVID-19 syndrome as:
Signs and symptoms that develop during or after an infection consistent with COVID-19, continue for more than 12 weeks and are not explained by an alternative diagnosis.
It usually presents with clusters of symptoms, often overlapping, which can fluctuate and change over time and can affect any system in the body. Post-COVID-19 syndrome may be considered before 12 weeks while the possibility of an alternative underlying disease is also being assessed.
Although the recording of data on the condition continues in Northern Ireland, there will be insufficient data to conduct analysis for a number of months. In the interim, the available evidence and research on prevalence at the UK level continues to be monitored.
A recent publication by the Office for National Statistics (ONS) estimated that 1 million people in private households in the UK reported experiencing long COVID. This relates to self-reported long COVID, rather than clinically diagnosed ongoing symptomatic COVID-19 or post-COVID-19 syndrome. Of those people 21,000 were from Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020336%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341633","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341633"}},{"id":"341479","reference":"AQW 20279/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-11","answerBy":"2021-06-28","answered":"2021-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children that have engaged in early years projects in East Londonderry, in each of the past five years.","answerText":"Details of the numbers of children engaging in early years projects in East Londonderry, in each of the past five years from 2016/17 to 2020/21, are provided in the table below.\n\nEarly Years project / programme\tOutline details of project / programme\t16/17\t17/18\t18/19\t19/20\t20/21\nPre-School Education Programme\tPre-school education for children (aged 3 to 4) in their immediate school year.\t1,137\t1,127\t1,209\t1,165\t1,140\n*Sure Start Programme\tSupport to children (aged 0 to 3) and their families, via 38 Sure Start projects, in (at least) the 25% most disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland.\t1,158\t1,219\t1,122\t1,056\t576\nPathway Fund\tAdditional targeted support to children aged 0-4 years who are at risk of not reaching their full educational potential.\t468\t460\t588\t367\t582\nToybox Project\tSupport for Traveller and Roma children aged 0–4 years in nine key areas across NI.\tNot available\tNot available\t1\t1\t1\nBright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme\tThe pilot Bright Start School Age Childcare (SAC) Grant Scheme aims to sustain and/or create school age childcare places (aged 4 to 14).\t167\t176\t152\t153\t144\nTOTALS\t\t2,930\t2,982\t3,072\t2,742\t2,443\n\nSources: Education Authority, Health and Social Care Board, Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children\n\n* East Londonderry constituency is served by Coleraine and Dry Arch Sure Start projects","answerHtml":"Details of the numbers of children engaging in early years projects in East Londonderry, in each of the past five years from 2016/17 to 2020/21, are provided in the table below.
| Early Years project / programme | Outline details of project / programme | 16/17 | 17/18 | 18/19 | 19/20 | 20/21 |
| Pre-School Education Programme | Pre-school education for children (aged 3 to 4) in their immediate school year. | 1,137 | 1,127 | 1,209 | 1,165 | 1,140 |
| *Sure Start Programme | Support to children (aged 0 to 3) and their families, via 38 Sure Start projects, in (at least) the 25% most disadvantaged areas in Northern Ireland. | 1,158 | 1,219 | 1,122 | 1,056 | 576 |
| Pathway Fund | Additional targeted support to children aged 0-4 years who are at risk of not reaching their full educational potential. | 468 | 460 | 588 | 367 | 582 |
| Toybox Project | Support for Traveller and Roma children aged 0–4 years in nine key areas across NI. | Not available | Not available | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme | The pilot Bright Start School Age Childcare (SAC) Grant Scheme aims to sustain and/or create school age childcare places (aged 4 to 14). | 167 | 176 | 152 | 153 | 144 |
| TOTALS | 2,930 | 2,982 | 3,072 | 2,742 | 2,443 |
Sources: Education Authority, Health and Social Care Board, Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children
* East Londonderry constituency is served by Coleraine and Dry Arch Sure Start projects
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020279%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341479"}},{"id":"341478","reference":"AQW 20278/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-11","answerBy":"2021-06-28","answered":"2021-06-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of funding provided by her Department to community and voluntary organisations in East Londonderry in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Government Funding Database which is publicly accessible at https://govfundingpublic.nics.gov.uk holds records of applications from and funding to voluntary and community sector organisations here.\n\nAnnex 1 provides details of funding recorded as having been allocated to groups in the East Derry constituency by the Department for Communities in the last five years via a range of commissioning methods and approaches. These include existing funding frameworks, match funding to local government community development programmes and a number of regional partnerships.\n\nThe GFD is a live database and is regularly updated. There have been some delays by funding organisations to update GFD due to Covid and as such there is an ongoing reconciliation exercise by partners.\n\nYou may find it helpful to search the database to obtain details of funding awarded to specific organisations registered within the noted area. Please note, information within the database is held according to the registered address of the organisation, which may not correspond to the location of the group benefitting from the funding awarded.\n\nTo mitigate the impact of Covid-19, my Department has also worked in partnership with stakeholders to provide financial and practical support to Culture, Languages, the Arts, Heritage, Sport, Charities, Social Enterprise and the Voluntary and Community Sectors. This information is not currently available at parliamentary constituency level.\n\nFor the Covid-19 Charities and Social Enterprise Funds where information is available at local government district level, I have provided details of funding awarded for both Causeway Coast and Glens and Derry City and Strabane District Council areas at Annex 2. For Covid-19 funding support covering sports, culture, languages, arts and heritage I have provided links (also in Annex 2) where further information is available.\n\nIn addition to publicly available schemes, my Department has also distributed funding directly to Councils. Some of this funding may have been allocated in the East Derry constituency and each Council would be able to provide details.\n\nAnnex 1\n\nFunding allocated to Groups in the East Derry constituency\n\nYear\tAmount awarded\n2016/2017\t£2,344,192.20\n2017/2018\t£1,403,562.46\n2018/2019\t£1,551,588.07\n2019/2020\t£1,897,690.60\n2020/2021\t£1,472,321.24\n\nAnnex 2\n\nCovid-19 Charities Fund\n\nCouncil Area\tTotal Amount Awarded\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t£1,097,402\nDerry City and Strabane\t£1,649,267\n\nSocial Enterprise Fund\n\nCouncil Area\tTotal Amount Awarded\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t£643,282\nDerry City and Strabane\t£591.092\n\nFor Covid-19 funding support covering sports, culture, languages, arts and heritage further information can be found through the links below.\n\nSports Sustainability Fund\n\nhttp://www.sportni.net/funding/our-funding-programmes/sports-sustainability-fund/sports-sustainability-fund-awards-list/\n\nDuring 2020/21, the Department also secured £1 million to provide over 2,000 Covid Safe PPE packs to sports clubs across the north. Sport NI has provided 61 PPE packs to clubs in the East Derry area.\n\nCovid-19 Culture, Languages, Arts & Heritage\n\nThe web link provides details of funding which has been distributed through a number of delivery partners. This information will be updated shortly to include a list of all successful grant recipients\n\nCOVID-19 Culture, Languages, Arts and Heritage Support Programme 2020-2021 (communities-ni.gov.uk)\n\nHeritage Recovery Fund\n\nhttps://www.heritagefund.org.uk/news/northern-ireland-heritage-road-recovery-thanks-ps528million-funding","answerHtml":"The Government Funding Database which is publicly accessible at https://govfundingpublic.nics.gov.uk holds records of applications from and funding to voluntary and community sector organisations here.
Annex 1 provides details of funding recorded as having been allocated to groups in the East Derry constituency by the Department for Communities in the last five years via a range of commissioning methods and approaches. These include existing funding frameworks, match funding to local government community development programmes and a number of regional partnerships.
The GFD is a live database and is regularly updated. There have been some delays by funding organisations to update GFD due to Covid and as such there is an ongoing reconciliation exercise by partners.
You may find it helpful to search the database to obtain details of funding awarded to specific organisations registered within the noted area. Please note, information within the database is held according to the registered address of the organisation, which may not correspond to the location of the group benefitting from the funding awarded.
To mitigate the impact of Covid-19, my Department has also worked in partnership with stakeholders to provide financial and practical support to Culture, Languages, the Arts, Heritage, Sport, Charities, Social Enterprise and the Voluntary and Community Sectors. This information is not currently available at parliamentary constituency level.
For the Covid-19 Charities and Social Enterprise Funds where information is available at local government district level, I have provided details of funding awarded for both Causeway Coast and Glens and Derry City and Strabane District Council areas at Annex 2. For Covid-19 funding support covering sports, culture, languages, arts and heritage I have provided links (also in Annex 2) where further information is available.
In addition to publicly available schemes, my Department has also distributed funding directly to Councils. Some of this funding may have been allocated in the East Derry constituency and each Council would be able to provide details.
Annex 1
Funding allocated to Groups in the East Derry constituency
| Year | Amount awarded |
| 2016/2017 | £2,344,192.20 |
| 2017/2018 | £1,403,562.46 |
| 2018/2019 | £1,551,588.07 |
| 2019/2020 | £1,897,690.60 |
| 2020/2021 | £1,472,321.24 |
Annex 2
Covid-19 Charities Fund
| Council Area | Total Amount Awarded |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | £1,097,402 |
| Derry City and Strabane | £1,649,267 |
Social Enterprise Fund
| Council Area | Total Amount Awarded |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | £643,282 |
| Derry City and Strabane | £591.092 |
For Covid-19 funding support covering sports, culture, languages, arts and heritage further information can be found through the links below.
Sports Sustainability Fund
http://www.sportni.net/funding/our-funding-programmes/sports-sustainability-fund/sports-sustainability-fund-awards-list/
During 2020/21, the Department also secured £1 million to provide over 2,000 Covid Safe PPE packs to sports clubs across the north. Sport NI has provided 61 PPE packs to clubs in the East Derry area.
Covid-19 Culture, Languages, Arts & Heritage
The web link provides details of funding which has been distributed through a number of delivery partners. This information will be updated shortly to include a list of all successful grant recipients
COVID-19 Culture, Languages, Arts and Heritage Support Programme 2020-2021 (communities-ni.gov.uk)
Heritage Recovery Fund
https://www.heritagefund.org.uk/news/northern-ireland-heritage-road-recovery-thanks-ps528million-funding
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020278%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341478","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341478"}},{"id":"341477","reference":"AQW 20277/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-11","answerBy":"2021-06-28","answered":"2021-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) what consideration has she given to improving or installing CCTV in Portrush in an effort to deter and prosecute people engaging in antisocial or violent behaviour; and (ii) what conversations has she had with local police and the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council regarding this issue.","answerText":"I do not routinely have conversations about the provision of CCTV as my Department does not specifically fund town centre or public-facing CCTV cameras in any council area and has no funding mechanisms available for CCTV related projects.\n\nI understand that Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council have led considerations with local partners on the provision of public facing CCTV in Portrush and the surrounding area.\n\nThe Department of Justice Interfaces Programme occasionally receives requests to contribute to the costs of upgrading CCTV cameras specifically linked to an interface structure reduction or removal scheme. These requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and, if approved, funding is provided through the Executive T:BUC Strategy funding allocation to the Interfaces Programme to facilitate the work required. The Interfaces Programme does not currently fund any public facing CCTV cameras.\n\nIn order to tackle anti-social behaviour, my Department in partnership with the Northern Ireland Policing Board, provides annual funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) who lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues at a local level. PCSPs tackle ASB by working in partnership with designated partners including PSNI; local statutory bodies/agencies; the voluntary sector and local communities.","answerHtml":"I do not routinely have conversations about the provision of CCTV as my Department does not specifically fund town centre or public-facing CCTV cameras in any council area and has no funding mechanisms available for CCTV related projects.
I understand that Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council have led considerations with local partners on the provision of public facing CCTV in Portrush and the surrounding area.
The Department of Justice Interfaces Programme occasionally receives requests to contribute to the costs of upgrading CCTV cameras specifically linked to an interface structure reduction or removal scheme. These requests are considered on a case-by-case basis and, if approved, funding is provided through the Executive T:BUC Strategy funding allocation to the Interfaces Programme to facilitate the work required. The Interfaces Programme does not currently fund any public facing CCTV cameras.
In order to tackle anti-social behaviour, my Department in partnership with the Northern Ireland Policing Board, provides annual funding to Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) who lead on the Department’s response to community safety issues at a local level. PCSPs tackle ASB by working in partnership with designated partners including PSNI; local statutory bodies/agencies; the voluntary sector and local communities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020277%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341477","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341477"}},{"id":"341476","reference":"AQW 20276/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-11","answerBy":"2021-06-28","answered":"2021-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the amount of funding allocated to brain tumour research in each of the last five years; and (ii) any proposed changes to this funding.","answerText":"Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Research and Development Division supports high quality cancer trials, both commercial and non-commercial through ongoing investment of over £1m per annum in the NI Cancer Trials Network (NICTN).\n\nThe NICTN have advised that it does not receive any ring fenced funding to support brain tumour research, so it is not clear how much of the annual budget would have been allocated to brain tumour research over the last five years.\n\nWe are not aware of any proposed changes to the £1m per annum.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland’s Health and Social Care Research and Development Division supports high quality cancer trials, both commercial and non-commercial through ongoing investment of over £1m per annum in the NI Cancer Trials Network (NICTN).
The NICTN have advised that it does not receive any ring fenced funding to support brain tumour research, so it is not clear how much of the annual budget would have been allocated to brain tumour research over the last five years.
We are not aware of any proposed changes to the £1m per annum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020276%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341476","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341476"}},{"id":"341298","reference":"AQW 20214/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-10","answerBy":"2021-06-15","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for her assessment of the application process for free school meals being moved online; and (ii) to detail any issues that have arisen in light of digital poverty levels.","answerText":"(i)The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the administration of applications for Free School Meals and Uniform Grants and from 7 June 2021 the application process for the academic year 2021/22 has moved online. In keeping with the EA's digital first policy the aim is to streamline and shorten the process and make it easier for parents to apply and is to be welcomed. Where the EA has introduced online services for parents uptake is consistently above 98%.\n\nPaper application forms continue to be available for applicants who do not have digital access. To assist parents in completing their application, the EA is operating a helpdesk Monday - Friday 9.00am to 4.30pm (tel: 02890 418044 or email: mealsanduniform@eani.org.uk).\n\n(ii) My predecessor had invested significantly in education technology to help those pupils in need access the necessary IT equipment to assist with their remote learning as a response to the pandemic. To support schools’ delivery of remote learning, funding has been provided to the Education Authority (EA) to continue to improve the services available through C2k, including upgrades to software, the addition of a number of learning applications and upgrading schools’ bandwidth, in particularly low bandwidth areas.\n\nAs a system, we are significantly better prepared and equipped to deliver remote learning than we were previously and the stated improvements have enabled us to meet the technology challenges faced.","answerHtml":"(i)The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for the administration of applications for Free School Meals and Uniform Grants and from 7 June 2021 the application process for the academic year 2021/22 has moved online. In keeping with the EA's digital first policy the aim is to streamline and shorten the process and make it easier for parents to apply and is to be welcomed. Where the EA has introduced online services for parents uptake is consistently above 98%.
Paper application forms continue to be available for applicants who do not have digital access. To assist parents in completing their application, the EA is operating a helpdesk Monday - Friday 9.00am to 4.30pm (tel: 02890 418044 or email: mealsanduniform@eani.org.uk).
(ii) My predecessor had invested significantly in education technology to help those pupils in need access the necessary IT equipment to assist with their remote learning as a response to the pandemic. To support schools’ delivery of remote learning, funding has been provided to the Education Authority (EA) to continue to improve the services available through C2k, including upgrades to software, the addition of a number of learning applications and upgrading schools’ bandwidth, in particularly low bandwidth areas.
As a system, we are significantly better prepared and equipped to deliver remote learning than we were previously and the stated improvements have enabled us to meet the technology challenges faced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020214%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341298","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341298"}},{"id":"341297","reference":"AQW 20213/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-10","answerBy":"2021-06-25","answered":"2022-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health which travellers are unable to use the £43 Randox PCR COVID-19 tests after arriving in Northern Ireland; and to outline the rationale for this decision.","answerText":"From 5 May 2021, international arrivals to Northern Ireland have been required to book their travel test packages from a list of private test providers available via the gov.uk website.\n\nHowever, from 18 March 2022, COVID-19 pre departure and post arrival travel testing for international arrivals into Northern Ireland is no longer required.","answerHtml":"From 5 May 2021, international arrivals to Northern Ireland have been required to book their travel test packages from a list of private test providers available via the gov.uk website.
However, from 18 March 2022, COVID-19 pre departure and post arrival travel testing for international arrivals into Northern Ireland is no longer required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020213%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341297","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341297"}},{"id":"341296","reference":"AQW 20212/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-10","answerBy":"2021-06-25","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how she ensures employment and funding opportunities within the community and voluntary sector are widely publicised in order to ensure optimum take-up and applications; and (ii) which community and voluntary (a) jobs; (b) training schemes; and (c) funding opportunities received no applicants in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Funding, training and job opportunities for the sector come from a wide variety of sources beyond this Department’s remit and we do not hold data on the uptake of opportunities.\n\nHowever, in terms of raising awareness of opportunities, my Department provides funding to a consortium led by (NICVA) to deliver Regional Infrastructure Support for the Voluntary and Community Sector. NICVA communicates up to date information on jobs, grant funding and tendering opportunities. It has a number of communication platforms including the NICVA website, the ‘Community NI’ website and a ‘grant tracker’ tool which are available to the Community and Voluntary sector.\n\nAdditionally, my Department operates a free service for employers, including voluntary and community sector employers, to advertise their job vacancies on Jobcentre Online. Jobcentre Online reaches a wide audience and allows jobseekers to apply for vacancies directly to employers. Jobseekers can target their search for jobs in the voluntary and community sector, if this is their work area of choice.","answerHtml":"Funding, training and job opportunities for the sector come from a wide variety of sources beyond this Department’s remit and we do not hold data on the uptake of opportunities.
However, in terms of raising awareness of opportunities, my Department provides funding to a consortium led by (NICVA) to deliver Regional Infrastructure Support for the Voluntary and Community Sector. NICVA communicates up to date information on jobs, grant funding and tendering opportunities. It has a number of communication platforms including the NICVA website, the ‘Community NI’ website and a ‘grant tracker’ tool which are available to the Community and Voluntary sector.
Additionally, my Department operates a free service for employers, including voluntary and community sector employers, to advertise their job vacancies on Jobcentre Online. Jobcentre Online reaches a wide audience and allows jobseekers to apply for vacancies directly to employers. Jobseekers can target their search for jobs in the voluntary and community sector, if this is their work area of choice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020212%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341296","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341296"}},{"id":"341295","reference":"AQW 20211/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-10","answerBy":"2021-06-25","answered":"2021-07-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) whether the Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University are planning on returning to face to face teaching in September; and (ii) what conversations she has had with these universities on this issue.","answerText":"As our Universities are autonomous institutions, the model and implementation of provision is for them to consider based on public health advice from the Executive. However, Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast have already written to their students to set out their vision for the new academic year and I am pleased that both include a commitment to a significant return to face to face learning for our students.\n\nI have not had the opportunity to speak with the Universities on this issue but it is my view that students should return to face to face teaching as soon as it was safe to do so and my officials have been engaging with them regularly in relation.","answerHtml":"As our Universities are autonomous institutions, the model and implementation of provision is for them to consider based on public health advice from the Executive. However, Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast have already written to their students to set out their vision for the new academic year and I am pleased that both include a commitment to a significant return to face to face learning for our students.
I have not had the opportunity to speak with the Universities on this issue but it is my view that students should return to face to face teaching as soon as it was safe to do so and my officials have been engaging with them regularly in relation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020211%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341295"}},{"id":"341294","reference":"AQW 20210/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-10","answerBy":"2021-06-25","answered":"2021-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the advice given to community and voluntary organisations regarding the preparation and distribution of food.","answerText":"Food prepared and distributed by community and voluntary organisations must comply with food law and be safe to eat.\n\nThe Food Standards Agency has published food safety information and guidance for ‘community cooking and food banks’ and, ‘community and charity events’ on their website. The respective webpages can be accessed here:\n\nhttps://www.food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/food-safety-for-community-cooking-and-food-banks\n\nhttp://food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/providing-food-at-community-and-charity-events\n\nThe topics covered include:\n\nregistration requirements\n\nlabelling of use-by dates, allergen information, storage and preparation instructions\n\nsafe food storage, preparation, cooking and handling and\n\nfood grade packaging.\n\nDistrict Council Environmental Health Services can also provide support and advice to such organisations which are based within their respective areas.","answerHtml":"Food prepared and distributed by community and voluntary organisations must comply with food law and be safe to eat.
The Food Standards Agency has published food safety information and guidance for ‘community cooking and food banks’ and, ‘community and charity events’ on their website. The respective webpages can be accessed here:
https://www.food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/food-safety-for-community-cooking-and-food-banks
http://food.gov.uk/safety-hygiene/providing-food-at-community-and-charity-events
The topics covered include:
registration requirements
labelling of use-by dates, allergen information, storage and preparation instructions
safe food storage, preparation, cooking and handling and
food grade packaging.
District Council Environmental Health Services can also provide support and advice to such organisations which are based within their respective areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020210%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341294"}},{"id":"341195","reference":"AQW 20166/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-09","answerBy":"2021-06-24","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the support provided by her to the University of the Third Age in each of the last five years; and (ii) for her assessment of the benefits of this organisation for older people.","answerText":"My Department has not provided any support to the University of the Third Age.\n\nMy Department leads on the Executive's Active Ageing Strategy which includes actions to encourage older people to participate in learning and cultural activities.","answerHtml":"My Department has not provided any support to the University of the Third Age.
My Department leads on the Executive's Active Ageing Strategy which includes actions to encourage older people to participate in learning and cultural activities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020166%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341195"}},{"id":"341194","reference":"AQW 20165/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-09","answerBy":"2021-06-24","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action she is taking to improve the rights of static caravan owners on caravan sites, including (i) the right to bequeath ownership of a caravan to a family member in a will; (ii) caravan purchasing rights; (iii) freedom of choice regarding insurance; (iv) fees demanded by site owners, such as in the event of the sale of a caravan; and (v) caravan-upgrading demands of site-owners.","answerText":"The Department for Communities is required by Section 4 of the Caravan Act 2011 to review Parts I and 2 of the Schedule every 5 years. Parts 1 & 3 of the Act relate to the residential sector and are the responsibility of the Department for Communities (DfC). Part 2 of the Act relates to the holiday sector and is the responsibility of the Department for Economy (DfE). The Act was last reviewed in 2016 and no changes were recommended.\n\nIt is the Department’s intention to review the Act in 2021 and preparations have begun to ensure the review is carried out this year at a date yet to be specified. The review will generate a better understanding of the issues you\n\nhave raised and whether the current legislative provisions remain sufficient.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities is required by Section 4 of the Caravan Act 2011 to review Parts I and 2 of the Schedule every 5 years. Parts 1 & 3 of the Act relate to the residential sector and are the responsibility of the Department for Communities (DfC). Part 2 of the Act relates to the holiday sector and is the responsibility of the Department for Economy (DfE). The Act was last reviewed in 2016 and no changes were recommended.
It is the Department’s intention to review the Act in 2021 and preparations have begun to ensure the review is carried out this year at a date yet to be specified. The review will generate a better understanding of the issues you
have raised and whether the current legislative provisions remain sufficient.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020165%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341194"}},{"id":"341193","reference":"AQW 20164/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-09","answerBy":"2021-06-24","answered":"2021-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of phonecalls, from customers reporting issues with their service, that have been received by Fibrus Ltd in relation to new ultrafast broadband connections since the Executive’s Project Stratum commenced; and (ii) the current number of Fibrus customers.","answerText":"The management structure for Project Stratum contains suitable tiers of coordination and project oversight, including a Project Board, a project management team and a number of dedicated officers to deliver specialised work packages. The structure follows HM Government best practice guidance and is based on PRINCE2™ methodology for project control and governance. Project oversight does not extend to call volumes or the nature of customer enquiries received by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) offering services to customers on the open access network that is being constructed under Project Stratum, and for which Fibrus Networks Ltd is the contractor.\n\nFibrus Networks Ltd manages a branded entity named HyperfastNI, which is the wholesale access network delivered by Fibrus Networks Ltd under the Project Stratum contract. HyperfastNI does not contract directly to end users and, therefore, does not receive phone calls directly related to customer services. All first line support calls would be answered by the retail service provider (for example: ‘Fibrus ISP’) with whom a customer will be contracted, and if unable to resolve, the call would be passed on to Fibrus Networks for further diagnosis and resolution.\n\nFibrus ISP does not differentiate customers delivered either as part of Project Stratum or commercial build infrastructure. In line with standard industry practise, the Department has been informed that Fibrus ISP does not publicly share statistics related to call volumes or specific customer enquiries.\n\nThe Department has not been made aware by the contractor, Fibrus Networks Ltd, of any unresolvable connectivity issues or issues of scale associated with customer service levels, based on access to new broadband infrastructure under Project Stratum.\n\n(ii) Following contract award in November 2020, the deployment of infrastructure commenced immediately. Work is underway in the first five deployment areas: Coalisland, Killyleagh, Ballycastle, Kilkeel and Castlewellan.\n\nTo date, Fibrus Networks has completed work on over 2,500 premises through Project Stratum, and this will increase to more than 4,500 by the end of the current month. Fibrus Networks is on target to connect 19,500 premises by the end of 2021.","answerHtml":"The management structure for Project Stratum contains suitable tiers of coordination and project oversight, including a Project Board, a project management team and a number of dedicated officers to deliver specialised work packages. The structure follows HM Government best practice guidance and is based on PRINCE2™ methodology for project control and governance. Project oversight does not extend to call volumes or the nature of customer enquiries received by an Internet Service Provider (ISP) offering services to customers on the open access network that is being constructed under Project Stratum, and for which Fibrus Networks Ltd is the contractor.
Fibrus Networks Ltd manages a branded entity named HyperfastNI, which is the wholesale access network delivered by Fibrus Networks Ltd under the Project Stratum contract. HyperfastNI does not contract directly to end users and, therefore, does not receive phone calls directly related to customer services. All first line support calls would be answered by the retail service provider (for example: ‘Fibrus ISP’) with whom a customer will be contracted, and if unable to resolve, the call would be passed on to Fibrus Networks for further diagnosis and resolution.
Fibrus ISP does not differentiate customers delivered either as part of Project Stratum or commercial build infrastructure. In line with standard industry practise, the Department has been informed that Fibrus ISP does not publicly share statistics related to call volumes or specific customer enquiries.
The Department has not been made aware by the contractor, Fibrus Networks Ltd, of any unresolvable connectivity issues or issues of scale associated with customer service levels, based on access to new broadband infrastructure under Project Stratum.
(ii) Following contract award in November 2020, the deployment of infrastructure commenced immediately. Work is underway in the first five deployment areas: Coalisland, Killyleagh, Ballycastle, Kilkeel and Castlewellan.
To date, Fibrus Networks has completed work on over 2,500 premises through Project Stratum, and this will increase to more than 4,500 by the end of the current month. Fibrus Networks is on target to connect 19,500 premises by the end of 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020164%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341193","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341193"}},{"id":"341192","reference":"AQW 20163/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-09","answerBy":"2021-06-24","answered":"2021-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether a person of pensionable age that receives financial assistance with dental treatment is entitled to a similar level of support with private dentistry providers.","answerText":"Assistance with dental health costs only applies to Health Service treatment. Therefore, an individual who qualifies for assistance with dental health costs cannot receive support if they choose to receive private care rather than Health Service care.","answerHtml":"Assistance with dental health costs only applies to Health Service treatment. Therefore, an individual who qualifies for assistance with dental health costs cannot receive support if they choose to receive private care rather than Health Service care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020163%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341192"}},{"id":"341191","reference":"AQW 20162/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-09","answerBy":"2021-06-24","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of occasions, and the total cost to each Health and Social Care Trust, of employing private paramedic or ambulance services, for each of the last five years.","answerText":"The total spend by each Health and Social Care Trust of employing private paramedic or ambulance services, in each of the last five is set out in the table below.\n\n2020/21\n£’000\t2019/20\n£’000\t2018/19 £’000\t2017/18 £’000\t2016/17 £’000\nBHSCT\t66\t30\t46\t294\t572\nNHSCT\t328\t363\t375\t346\t669\nSEHCT\t2,063\t1,545\t1,212\t954\t878\nSHSCT\t431\t316\t337\t268\t118\nWHSCT\t419\t224\t318\t291\t232\nNIAS\t10,146\t5,244\t3,267\t2,638\t1,084\nTotal\t13,453\t7,722\t5,555\t4,791\t3,553\n\n*Please note that the use of private ambulance has been interpreted to include the use of independent ambulance providers to support non-emergency transportation of patients within the emergency and non-emergency environments.\n\nUnfortunately, details on the number of occasions can only be provided at disproportionate cost.\n\nThe decrease in expenditure by BHSCT since 2017/18 is explained by the fact that NIAS has taken on the co-ordination of sub-contracting their service.","answerHtml":"The total spend by each Health and Social Care Trust of employing private paramedic or ambulance services, in each of the last five is set out in the table below.
| 2020/21 £’000 | 2019/20 £’000 | 2018/19 £’000 | 2017/18 £’000 | 2016/17 £’000 | |
| BHSCT | 66 | 30 | 46 | 294 | 572 |
| NHSCT | 328 | 363 | 375 | 346 | 669 |
| SEHCT | 2,063 | 1,545 | 1,212 | 954 | 878 |
| SHSCT | 431 | 316 | 337 | 268 | 118 |
| WHSCT | 419 | 224 | 318 | 291 | 232 |
| NIAS | 10,146 | 5,244 | 3,267 | 2,638 | 1,084 |
| Total | 13,453 | 7,722 | 5,555 | 4,791 | 3,553 |
*Please note that the use of private ambulance has been interpreted to include the use of independent ambulance providers to support non-emergency transportation of patients within the emergency and non-emergency environments.
Unfortunately, details on the number of occasions can only be provided at disproportionate cost.
The decrease in expenditure by BHSCT since 2017/18 is explained by the fact that NIAS has taken on the co-ordination of sub-contracting their service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020162%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341191"}},{"id":"341000","reference":"AQW 20070/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-08","answerBy":"2021-06-23","answered":"2021-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) what assessment has been made of the financial impact of the pandemic on mechanics and repair garages; and (ii) why garages and mechanics were excluded from the latest round of COVID-19 support packages.","answerText":"(i) The Department for Economy is responsible for economic support so that question is best directed towards that Department.\n\n(ii) Garages were not eligible for the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme as they were permitted to remain open as essential businesses through the most recent period of health restrictions. They are eligible now for the £5k top-up, if they qualified for the £10k Small Business Support Grant last year. Premises with a NAV not greater than £15,000 will be eligible for Small Business Rate Relief.","answerHtml":"(i) The Department for Economy is responsible for economic support so that question is best directed towards that Department.
(ii) Garages were not eligible for the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme as they were permitted to remain open as essential businesses through the most recent period of health restrictions. They are eligible now for the £5k top-up, if they qualified for the £10k Small Business Support Grant last year. Premises with a NAV not greater than £15,000 will be eligible for Small Business Rate Relief.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020070%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=341000","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=341000"}},{"id":"340999","reference":"AQW 20069/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-08","answerBy":"2021-06-23","answered":"2021-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any conversations she has had with universities regarding students who cannot secure an offer of a place, despite having high predicted grades.","answerText":"Northern Ireland’s universities are autonomous bodies. As such, responsibility for setting admissions criteria and practices lies with each of the universities.\n\nHowever, universities will take a view of more than just predicted grades when considering whether to make offers to students. They take into account a range of contextual information to assess how successful an applicant is likely to be in coping with the demands of university life, with predicted grades making up only one element of this information.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland’s universities are autonomous bodies. As such, responsibility for setting admissions criteria and practices lies with each of the universities.
However, universities will take a view of more than just predicted grades when considering whether to make offers to students. They take into account a range of contextual information to assess how successful an applicant is likely to be in coping with the demands of university life, with predicted grades making up only one element of this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020069%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340999","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340999"}},{"id":"340998","reference":"AQW 20068/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-08","answerBy":"2021-06-23","answered":"2021-07-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the reasons behind the energy price rises of the previous year and steps she is taking to ensure affordable energy for consumers.","answerText":"The primary factor for recent energy price increases in Northern Ireland has been the rising cost of gas in wholesale markets. Increasing global demand for gas and challenges in supply chains have raised the price in both wholesale and retail gas markets. This has also resulted in increased cost of electricity generation with associated impacts in the retail electricity market.\n\nDespite the current upward pressure on global energy prices, Northern Ireland remains one of the cheapest places to buy electricity for both domestic and business consumers. Typical domestic credit bills for gas customers are less than both the GB average and the standard tariff in Ireland. My Department continues to work with the Utility Regulator to ensure consumers benefit from the regulated tariff regime for electricity and gas in Northern Ireland which provides a competitive ‘price to beat’.\n\nThe Consumer Council has a free independent energy price comparison tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place. Their website also has a number of free resources including help for consumers to be more energy efficient at home, get the best from their electricity or gas supply and save money.","answerHtml":"The primary factor for recent energy price increases in Northern Ireland has been the rising cost of gas in wholesale markets. Increasing global demand for gas and challenges in supply chains have raised the price in both wholesale and retail gas markets. This has also resulted in increased cost of electricity generation with associated impacts in the retail electricity market.
Despite the current upward pressure on global energy prices, Northern Ireland remains one of the cheapest places to buy electricity for both domestic and business consumers. Typical domestic credit bills for gas customers are less than both the GB average and the standard tariff in Ireland. My Department continues to work with the Utility Regulator to ensure consumers benefit from the regulated tariff regime for electricity and gas in Northern Ireland which provides a competitive ‘price to beat’.
The Consumer Council has a free independent energy price comparison tool which empowers consumers to compare all electricity and gas tariffs across Northern Ireland in one place. Their website also has a number of free resources including help for consumers to be more energy efficient at home, get the best from their electricity or gas supply and save money.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020068%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340998","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340998"}},{"id":"340997","reference":"AQW 20067/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-08","answerBy":"2021-06-23","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of people killed in farm accidents in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Since the first of January 2015 there have been of 35 fatalities on farms in Northern Ireland.\n\n11 fatal incidents involved animals, 15 involved machinery, 8 resulted from falls from height and 1 from exposure to slurry gas.\n\nA breakdown by year is shown in the table below.\n\nDate\tIncident Type\tNo. of Fatalities\n2015\tAnimal\t1\n2015\tFall\t1\n2015\tEquipment\t4\n2016\tSlurry\t1\n2016\tAnimal\t2\n2016\tFall\t2\n2016\tEquipment\t2\n2017\tAnimal\t3\n2017\tEquipment\t4\n2018\tAnimal\t4\n2018\tFall\t2\n2018\tEquipment\t2\n2019\tEquipment\t1\n2020\tAnimal\t1\n2020\tFall\t2\n2020\tEquipment\t1\n2021\tFall\t1\n2021\tEquipment\t1","answerHtml":"Since the first of January 2015 there have been of 35 fatalities on farms in Northern Ireland.
11 fatal incidents involved animals, 15 involved machinery, 8 resulted from falls from height and 1 from exposure to slurry gas.
A breakdown by year is shown in the table below.
| Date | Incident Type | No. of Fatalities |
| 2015 | Animal | 1 |
| 2015 | Fall | 1 |
| 2015 | Equipment | 4 |
| 2016 | Slurry | 1 |
| 2016 | Animal | 2 |
| 2016 | Fall | 2 |
| 2016 | Equipment | 2 |
| 2017 | Animal | 3 |
| 2017 | Equipment | 4 |
| 2018 | Animal | 4 |
| 2018 | Fall | 2 |
| 2018 | Equipment | 2 |
| 2019 | Equipment | 1 |
| 2020 | Animal | 1 |
| 2020 | Fall | 2 |
| 2020 | Equipment | 1 |
| 2021 | Fall | 1 |
| 2021 | Equipment | 1 |
Dementia is a progressive condition and it is understood that over the period of the pandemic, people’s condition will have changed regardless of where they reside. However, we are not currently aware of any scientifically based evidence to indicate that the condition of persons with a dementia, living in care homes, has progressed more than may have been the case had the Covid-19 restrictions not been introduced.
(i) In regards to long term plans for those living with dementia in care homes, in addition to the restoration of visits by family members, professional staff will be undertaking visits to care homes, as part of the post-Covid-19 Recovery/Re-build programme drawn up in all HSC Trusts. Clinics (Memory Services) will be provided where assessments/reviews will be undertaken and new care plans with immediate and longer term objectives/interventions developed as appropriate.
(ii) While there is no substitute for face-to-face visits and physical contact with loved ones, we have had to do what was reasonable in the circumstances to ensure the safety and well-being of residents, families, staff and others, for as long as the pandemic remains a threat. However, I appreciate that this will have been a difficult time for those in care homes particularly, and their families.
The Department, Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and HSC Trusts have been working tirelessly to restore normal routines as quickly as possible and in line with any public health advice.
Trust staff and others from the Community and Voluntary (C&V) sector and care home providers have continued throughout the pandemic to support people in care homes to maintain contact with families even if that was only virtually or with some restrictions in place e.g restrictions relating to social distancing and physical contact.
It remains my position that care home visiting and implementation of the care partner role is of critical importance to the health and wellbeing of care home residents and in particular those with a dementia. New guidance to facilitate increased visiting in all care settings in Northern Ireland has been issued, and came into effect from 7 May 2021 (https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance). The new visiting guidance for care homes sets out an agreed new approach to supporting safe and proportionate increased visiting in care homes. This includes updated arrangements for the safe management of care home residents receiving visitors, as well as residents being able to visit other households, community facilities and take part in excursions.
(iii) At this point we have no reliable evidence as to the extent that a person’s dementia may have progressed adversely as a result of an extended lock down period(s). As stated above, dementia is a progressive condition and its prognosis will vary from person to person. Different circumstances and experiences will influence the way in which people react or how their condition develops.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2020066%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340996"}},{"id":"340773","reference":"AQW 19986/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-07","answerBy":"2021-06-22","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an estimate of the number of problem gamblers in Northern Ireland; and (ii) for her assessment of the impact of betting company advertising in sport on problem gambling.","answerText":"The most recent gambling prevalence survey carried out by my Department in 2016 and published in 2017 estimated the rate of problem gambling here at 2.3% of the population of people aged 16 and over.\n\nThe 2016 survey also included information on the top three most common gambling advertisements seen by respondents over a one month period. Sponsorship advertising, as distinct from sports advertising, was identified as one of the three most common forms of advertising seen at around 36%. Other common forms comprised television (80%) and on-line (47%).\n\nFurther information on the survey report can be accessed at the link below:-\n\n2016-ni-gambling-prevalence-survey-main-report.pdf (qub.ac.uk)\n\nI have not carried out any assessment as yet of the impact of betting company advertising in sport on problem gambling. This is an issue that I want to consider within the next phase of my gambling reforms.","answerHtml":"The most recent gambling prevalence survey carried out by my Department in 2016 and published in 2017 estimated the rate of problem gambling here at 2.3% of the population of people aged 16 and over.
The 2016 survey also included information on the top three most common gambling advertisements seen by respondents over a one month period. Sponsorship advertising, as distinct from sports advertising, was identified as one of the three most common forms of advertising seen at around 36%. Other common forms comprised television (80%) and on-line (47%).
Further information on the survey report can be accessed at the link below:-
2016-ni-gambling-prevalence-survey-main-report.pdf (qub.ac.uk)
I have not carried out any assessment as yet of the impact of betting company advertising in sport on problem gambling. This is an issue that I want to consider within the next phase of my gambling reforms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019986%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340773"}},{"id":"340772","reference":"AQW 19985/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-07","answerBy":"2021-06-22","answered":"2022-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to ensure residents of Northern Ireland can access the cheapest option for the mandatory COVID-19 testing kits being sold by government-approved providers for travellers returning from amber list countries; and for his assessment of why some UK-based government-approved test providers state they do not ship to Northern Ireland.","answerText":"From 5 May 2021 international arrivals to Northern Ireland have had the option to book their post-arrival travel test package from a list of private test providers available via the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/find-travel-test-provider. These private test providers declared that they meet the minimum standards required by UKAS.\n\nFrom 11 February 2022, those fully vaccinated, under 18 years old and on certain clinical trials will no longer be required take part in any post or pre arrival testing as a requirement to enter Northern Ireland when arriving from a non-red list country. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated must still take a pre departure test and a post arrival PCR test taken on or before day 2.\n\nMy Department recognises that the cost of travel related tests can seem expensive however the cost has fallen since the launch of private sector testing.","answerHtml":"From 5 May 2021 international arrivals to Northern Ireland have had the option to book their post-arrival travel test package from a list of private test providers available via the gov.uk website: https://www.gov.uk/find-travel-test-provider. These private test providers declared that they meet the minimum standards required by UKAS.
From 11 February 2022, those fully vaccinated, under 18 years old and on certain clinical trials will no longer be required take part in any post or pre arrival testing as a requirement to enter Northern Ireland when arriving from a non-red list country. Individuals who are not fully vaccinated must still take a pre departure test and a post arrival PCR test taken on or before day 2.
My Department recognises that the cost of travel related tests can seem expensive however the cost has fallen since the launch of private sector testing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019985%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340772"}},{"id":"340771","reference":"AQW 19984/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-07","answerBy":"2021-06-22","answered":"2021-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of people who were covered by private health insurance in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The information requested is not available centrally. Information on the number of people who are covered by private health insurance would only be held by insurance companies and is commercially sensitive.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available centrally. Information on the number of people who are covered by private health insurance would only be held by insurance companies and is commercially sensitive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019984%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340771"}},{"id":"340770","reference":"AQW 19983/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-07","answerBy":"2021-06-22","answered":"2021-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of dentist surgeries that treated (a) only private; (b) NHS and private; and (c) only NHS patients, in each of the past five years; and (ii) the number of patients who paid for private dentist treatment in each of the past five years.","answerText":"Information on dental practices that carry out health service dental work is collected by the Business Services Organisation. The number of General Dental practices that carried out health service work between 2017 and 2020 is shown in Table 1 overleaf. The number of these practices which carried out only health service work in each of these years is also shown in Table 1. All other practices are providing private treatment to some extent. The number of practices providing only Private treatment is not collected centrally and is not available. Also, data is not held on private dentistry treatment, so the number of patients who paid for private treatment is not available.\n\nTable 1: Total number of General Dental practices that carried out health service work and the number that carried out only health service work, 2017 - 20201,2\n\nYear1\tTotal number of Dental Practices1\tNumber of purely Health Service practices2\n2017\t376\t4\n2018\t377\t5\n2019\t376\t5\n2020\t372\t3\n31st December 2020\t369\t-\n\n1 Source: Business Services Organisation. The number of active dental surgeries at 31st March each year. The number of active surgeries at 31st March 2021 is not available until the annual release of the FPS General Dental Statistics 2020/21 publication on 22nd June 2021; as such the latest figures at 31st December 2020 have been given.\n\n2 Source: Health and Social Care Board. The number of purely Health Service Practices is provided by Calendar year. These practices are a subset of the total number of dental practices, so are included in the total number of dental practices. However, note that this data is not part of the BSO General Dental Statistics publication.","answerHtml":"Information on dental practices that carry out health service dental work is collected by the Business Services Organisation. The number of General Dental practices that carried out health service work between 2017 and 2020 is shown in Table 1 overleaf. The number of these practices which carried out only health service work in each of these years is also shown in Table 1. All other practices are providing private treatment to some extent. The number of practices providing only Private treatment is not collected centrally and is not available. Also, data is not held on private dentistry treatment, so the number of patients who paid for private treatment is not available.
Table 1: Total number of General Dental practices that carried out health service work and the number that carried out only health service work, 2017 - 20201,2
| Year1 | Total number of Dental Practices1 | Number of purely Health Service practices2 |
| 2017 | 376 | 4 |
| 2018 | 377 | 5 |
| 2019 | 376 | 5 |
| 2020 | 372 | 3 |
| 31st December 2020 | 369 | - |
1 Source: Business Services Organisation. The number of active dental surgeries at 31st March each year. The number of active surgeries at 31st March 2021 is not available until the annual release of the FPS General Dental Statistics 2020/21 publication on 22nd June 2021; as such the latest figures at 31st December 2020 have been given.
2 Source: Health and Social Care Board. The number of purely Health Service Practices is provided by Calendar year. These practices are a subset of the total number of dental practices, so are included in the total number of dental practices. However, note that this data is not part of the BSO General Dental Statistics publication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019983%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340770"}},{"id":"340769","reference":"AQW 19982/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-07","answerBy":"2021-06-22","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any schemes or programmes he has initiated in order to improve farm safety.","answerText":"Agriculture is our most dangerous industry and has consistently held a poor safety record in relation to deaths and serious injury, of all the industries in Northern Ireland.\n\nWhilst Health and Safety is the remit of the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), I continue to show my commitment to the safety of our farm families and employees through significant work in a number of different ways.\n\nThe Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) was established in 2012 and has representation from my Department, HSENI, the Ulster Farmers’ Union, the National Farmers’ Union Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster and the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers Association. As part of the 2020-2023 Farm Safety Action Plan (its fourth Action Plan), the FSP is concentrating on specific ‘Farm Safe Essentials’ aimed at reducing the number of serious and fatal incidents relating to frequently recurring causes.\n\nThe 'Stop and Think SAFE' farm safety multi media campaign, was developed by the FSP to help tackle the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland's farms. It raises the issues of the four main causes of fatalities on our farms - Slurry, Animals, Falls (from height) and Equipment. My Department continues to provide funding for this ongoing high profile and often hard hitting campaign.\n\nFarmSafeNet, developed by the FSP, is an online learning tool designed to raise awareness about farm safety. It provides a range of useful resources along with practical information, all to encourage farmers and those working on farms to think seriously about safety on their farm. In addition, the ‘Making it Safer’ tool, included in FarmSafeNet, allows farmers to carry out a simple risk assessment that can help them manage their farm in such a way that it is safer for themselves, families and employees.\n\nThese online farm safety tools are an integral part of the application process for the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme Farm Business Improvement - Capital Scheme. I strongly recommend that all farmers, farm family members and farm workers access these online tools and revisit regularly. They can be found at www.farmsafenet.org\n\nFarm safety is a high priority across all programmes that are delivered through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and Health and Safety is a key component of these programmes.\n\nIn CAFRE at the start of each academic year all new full-time, Further Education agriculture students participate in the Yellow Wellies Farm Safety initiative which is delivered by the Farm Safety Foundation. Health and safety is also a key feature of all practical activities undertaken by students during their course at CAFRE. In addition, the education and training provision on the safe operation of machinery at CAFRE has been further enhanced through the use of simulated driving technology.\n\nDuring July and August each year CAFRE provides a tractor driving training course for 13 to 16 year old young people. This course includes Health and Safety, Legal requirements, Safe use of tractors on the farm, and how to safely use trailers and other implements. Courses for summer 2021 are currently being organised and will commence in July.\n\nCAFRE also delivers the Rural Development Programme Business Development Groups (BDGs) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) Schemes. Almost 3000 farmers participate in the BDGs with Health and Safety training an integral part of the scheme.\n\nWithin the FFKS Scheme, 817 people have undertaken Health & Safety Awareness training which aimed to create more awareness of the risks that exist on farms and encourage activities and work practices that create a safer working environment for all the farm family. Over 2,690 farm family members have also been trained in First Aid Awareness.\n\nTo date, 290 farm family members have participated in a ‘Coping with the Pressures of Farming’ course. This is delivered by Rural Support and focuses on farmers’ mental wellbeing. It was developed in response to a growing body of evidence that stress and anxiety impact on farmers’ wellbeing and their ability to do their job and a suggested link between increasing stress levels in farming and increasing risks for farm accidents to occur. The training focuses on helping farm families recognise the signs of stress, the potential causes, the practical steps to address the causes and where to seek help when required.\n\nIn addition to the various training and tools that have made available, On-farm health and safety is one of the key themes under the Farm Business Improvement Scheme-Capital that sits alongside other scheme themes of efficiency, environmental, animal and plant health. Under Tier 1 of the scheme, the list of eligible investments includes items which have potential benefits in terms of all these themes including health and safety on-farm.\n\nMy Department will continue to ensure health and safety remains embedded within its training provision and will work collaboratively with its partners on the FSP to help drive home the importance of farm safety and develop a safety-first culture on our local farms. It is however, the farmers and those living and working on our farms that must put into practice those actions that are required to minimise or eliminate the risks of serious injury or death on our farms.","answerHtml":"Agriculture is our most dangerous industry and has consistently held a poor safety record in relation to deaths and serious injury, of all the industries in Northern Ireland.
Whilst Health and Safety is the remit of the Health and Safety Executive Northern Ireland (HSENI), I continue to show my commitment to the safety of our farm families and employees through significant work in a number of different ways.
The Farm Safety Partnership (FSP) was established in 2012 and has representation from my Department, HSENI, the Ulster Farmers’ Union, the National Farmers’ Union Mutual, the Young Farmers’ Clubs of Ulster and the Northern Ireland Agricultural Producers Association. As part of the 2020-2023 Farm Safety Action Plan (its fourth Action Plan), the FSP is concentrating on specific ‘Farm Safe Essentials’ aimed at reducing the number of serious and fatal incidents relating to frequently recurring causes.
The 'Stop and Think SAFE' farm safety multi media campaign, was developed by the FSP to help tackle the high rates of serious accidents and deaths on Northern Ireland's farms. It raises the issues of the four main causes of fatalities on our farms - Slurry, Animals, Falls (from height) and Equipment. My Department continues to provide funding for this ongoing high profile and often hard hitting campaign.
FarmSafeNet, developed by the FSP, is an online learning tool designed to raise awareness about farm safety. It provides a range of useful resources along with practical information, all to encourage farmers and those working on farms to think seriously about safety on their farm. In addition, the ‘Making it Safer’ tool, included in FarmSafeNet, allows farmers to carry out a simple risk assessment that can help them manage their farm in such a way that it is safer for themselves, families and employees.
These online farm safety tools are an integral part of the application process for the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme Farm Business Improvement - Capital Scheme. I strongly recommend that all farmers, farm family members and farm workers access these online tools and revisit regularly. They can be found at www.farmsafenet.org
Farm safety is a high priority across all programmes that are delivered through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and Health and Safety is a key component of these programmes.
In CAFRE at the start of each academic year all new full-time, Further Education agriculture students participate in the Yellow Wellies Farm Safety initiative which is delivered by the Farm Safety Foundation. Health and safety is also a key feature of all practical activities undertaken by students during their course at CAFRE. In addition, the education and training provision on the safe operation of machinery at CAFRE has been further enhanced through the use of simulated driving technology.
During July and August each year CAFRE provides a tractor driving training course for 13 to 16 year old young people. This course includes Health and Safety, Legal requirements, Safe use of tractors on the farm, and how to safely use trailers and other implements. Courses for summer 2021 are currently being organised and will commence in July.
CAFRE also delivers the Rural Development Programme Business Development Groups (BDGs) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) Schemes. Almost 3000 farmers participate in the BDGs with Health and Safety training an integral part of the scheme.
Within the FFKS Scheme, 817 people have undertaken Health & Safety Awareness training which aimed to create more awareness of the risks that exist on farms and encourage activities and work practices that create a safer working environment for all the farm family. Over 2,690 farm family members have also been trained in First Aid Awareness.
To date, 290 farm family members have participated in a ‘Coping with the Pressures of Farming’ course. This is delivered by Rural Support and focuses on farmers’ mental wellbeing. It was developed in response to a growing body of evidence that stress and anxiety impact on farmers’ wellbeing and their ability to do their job and a suggested link between increasing stress levels in farming and increasing risks for farm accidents to occur. The training focuses on helping farm families recognise the signs of stress, the potential causes, the practical steps to address the causes and where to seek help when required.
In addition to the various training and tools that have made available, On-farm health and safety is one of the key themes under the Farm Business Improvement Scheme-Capital that sits alongside other scheme themes of efficiency, environmental, animal and plant health. Under Tier 1 of the scheme, the list of eligible investments includes items which have potential benefits in terms of all these themes including health and safety on-farm.
My Department will continue to ensure health and safety remains embedded within its training provision and will work collaboratively with its partners on the FSP to help drive home the importance of farm safety and develop a safety-first culture on our local farms. It is however, the farmers and those living and working on our farms that must put into practice those actions that are required to minimise or eliminate the risks of serious injury or death on our farms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019982%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340769"}},{"id":"340520","reference":"AQW 19931/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-04","answerBy":"2021-06-21","answered":"2021-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps he is taking to ensure that people can get an appointment with their GP.","answerText":"I recognise that this has been a difficult and worrying time for many people and especially those living with long term conditions who may need regular appointments and/or treatment.\n\nI want to emphasise that primary care services are working to make best use of available resources for everyone who is seeking to access the care that they need. GP practices are open and providing both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.\n\nThe general practice telephone first consultation process allows patients to seek timely medical advice from their GP for both routine and urgent problems. The GP determines the most appropriate approach to safely addressing the patient’s needs using their clinical expertise. The GP decides, based on their assessment, if a face to face appointment is appropriate, if the patient can be managed over the telephone or if they should be signposted or directed to other appropriate services. This approach helps the GP to appropriately manage, treat and support the large number of us who seek clinical support and advice from our primary care practitioners.\n\nEven before having to cope with the strain of a sustained pandemic situation, the need for transformation of primary care was already recognised. Figures in 2019 indicated patient contacts were almost 15 million per year up from an estimated 12.7 million in 2014. Initiatives such as our Multi-Disciplinary Team Programme, the introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and additional General Practice Nurses were already making a difference to how services are delivered in primary care. Investment in technology, including telephony, was also assisting General Practice to meet growing demand.\n\nThe development of this mixed approach to delivering primary care services has been ongoing since 2016, so is not a new concept. In 2016, the report of the GP-led Care Review Working Group concluded that GP-led services could not continue to meet rising demand and expectations without urgent action to address the pressures facing the service. The report set out a vision for future GP-led services which noted that technology will play a much greater part in the delivery of primary care services.\n\nPrimary Care’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of new and innovative ways of working to enable General Practice, along with all other areas within the health and social care system, to react quickly and adapt flexibly to the demands and challenges of the pandemic. Despite the demands and capacity limits that COVID has created, GPs have maintained all of the core elements of general practice services.\n\nThe use of more innovative ways of working, including telephone and video consultations, is now widely embedded and the model of Primary Care will continue to transform to meet growing patient demand with technology and new ways of working playing an important role alongside existing arrangements, such as face to face appointments, which will continue to be available to GPs to safely manage patient care.","answerHtml":"I recognise that this has been a difficult and worrying time for many people and especially those living with long term conditions who may need regular appointments and/or treatment.
I want to emphasise that primary care services are working to make best use of available resources for everyone who is seeking to access the care that they need. GP practices are open and providing both face to face appointments and alternative consultation options for patients as appropriate.
The general practice telephone first consultation process allows patients to seek timely medical advice from their GP for both routine and urgent problems. The GP determines the most appropriate approach to safely addressing the patient’s needs using their clinical expertise. The GP decides, based on their assessment, if a face to face appointment is appropriate, if the patient can be managed over the telephone or if they should be signposted or directed to other appropriate services. This approach helps the GP to appropriately manage, treat and support the large number of us who seek clinical support and advice from our primary care practitioners.
Even before having to cope with the strain of a sustained pandemic situation, the need for transformation of primary care was already recognised. Figures in 2019 indicated patient contacts were almost 15 million per year up from an estimated 12.7 million in 2014. Initiatives such as our Multi-Disciplinary Team Programme, the introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners and additional General Practice Nurses were already making a difference to how services are delivered in primary care. Investment in technology, including telephony, was also assisting General Practice to meet growing demand.
The development of this mixed approach to delivering primary care services has been ongoing since 2016, so is not a new concept. In 2016, the report of the GP-led Care Review Working Group concluded that GP-led services could not continue to meet rising demand and expectations without urgent action to address the pressures facing the service. The report set out a vision for future GP-led services which noted that technology will play a much greater part in the delivery of primary care services.
Primary Care’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the implementation of new and innovative ways of working to enable General Practice, along with all other areas within the health and social care system, to react quickly and adapt flexibly to the demands and challenges of the pandemic. Despite the demands and capacity limits that COVID has created, GPs have maintained all of the core elements of general practice services.
The use of more innovative ways of working, including telephone and video consultations, is now widely embedded and the model of Primary Care will continue to transform to meet growing patient demand with technology and new ways of working playing an important role alongside existing arrangements, such as face to face appointments, which will continue to be available to GPs to safely manage patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019931%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340520"}},{"id":"340519","reference":"AQW 19930/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-04","answerBy":"2021-06-21","answered":"2021-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the average amount of time primary and post-primary school pupils spend (i) outdoors; and (ii) exercising during each school day.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information about the amount of time pupils spend outdoors or exercising each school day. This will vary according to each school.\n\nHowever, information about the amount of time schools allocate to Physical Education (PE) on a weekly average is collected via the School Omnibus Survey. The last survey was conducted in 2018 and the results are available in the tables below. I will keep this under review:\n\nPrimary Schools\n2018\n0-59 mins per week\t37.8%\n60-119 mins per week\t57.4%\n120 or more mins per week\t4.8%\n\nBased on responses from 248 primary schools\n\nPost-Primary Schools\n2018\n0-59 mins per week\t26.8%\n60-119 mins per week\t63.5%\n120 or more mins per week\t8.1%\n\nBased on responses from 67 post-primary schools\n\nThe 2021/22 School Omnibus Survey will again include questions on PE provision and will issue to all schools in September 2021.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information about the amount of time pupils spend outdoors or exercising each school day. This will vary according to each school.
However, information about the amount of time schools allocate to Physical Education (PE) on a weekly average is collected via the School Omnibus Survey. The last survey was conducted in 2018 and the results are available in the tables below. I will keep this under review:
| Primary Schools | |
| 2018 | |
| 0-59 mins per week | 37.8% |
| 60-119 mins per week | 57.4% |
| 120 or more mins per week | 4.8% |
Based on responses from 248 primary schools
| Post-Primary Schools | |
| 2018 | |
| 0-59 mins per week | 26.8% |
| 60-119 mins per week | 63.5% |
| 120 or more mins per week | 8.1% |
Based on responses from 67 post-primary schools
The 2021/22 School Omnibus Survey will again include questions on PE provision and will issue to all schools in September 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019930%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340519"}},{"id":"340518","reference":"AQW 19929/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-04","answerBy":"2021-06-21","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of drivers unable to book an MOT at their nearest testing centre in the last year.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold information on the number of drivers unable to book an MOT at their nearest test centre in the last year.\n\nThe DVA is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 test centres for those vehicles that require an MOT test and customers do not always want to select their nearest test centre for a variety of reasons. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at the preferred test centre, and customers may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold information on the number of drivers unable to book an MOT at their nearest test centre in the last year.
The DVA is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 test centres for those vehicles that require an MOT test and customers do not always want to select their nearest test centre for a variety of reasons. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at the preferred test centre, and customers may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019929%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340518"}},{"id":"340517","reference":"AQW 19928/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-04","answerBy":"2021-06-21","answered":"2021-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current and ongoing support in place to enable dentists to see the maximum number of patients; and (ii) the current regulations for dentists providing check-ups and treatment.","answerText":"Since July 2020, General Dental Practitioners have been permitted to provide all types treatment, including check-ups. However, enhanced Infection Prevention and Control measures including additional PPE and fallow time between Aerosol Generating Procedures limit the number of patients which can be seen each day. To ensure that this limited capacity is targeted appropriately, the guidance issued to all dentists recommends that patients requiring emergency or urgent care are given the highest priority.\n\nTo support the sustainability of dental practices through this difficult period and offset the additional cost of enhanced PPE requirements, as of September 2021, my Department has provided approximately £70.2m in additional funding. Support will continue until the end of 2021/22, with future arrangements to be considered in due course.\n\nFurthermore, in February 2021, the Department provided an additional £1.5m to help improve patient throughput at dental surgeries throughout Northern Ireland. This funding helped practices reduce the fallow time between patients by investing in improved ventilation or through the purchase of high-volume suction devices.","answerHtml":"Since July 2020, General Dental Practitioners have been permitted to provide all types treatment, including check-ups. However, enhanced Infection Prevention and Control measures including additional PPE and fallow time between Aerosol Generating Procedures limit the number of patients which can be seen each day. To ensure that this limited capacity is targeted appropriately, the guidance issued to all dentists recommends that patients requiring emergency or urgent care are given the highest priority.
To support the sustainability of dental practices through this difficult period and offset the additional cost of enhanced PPE requirements, as of September 2021, my Department has provided approximately £70.2m in additional funding. Support will continue until the end of 2021/22, with future arrangements to be considered in due course.
Furthermore, in February 2021, the Department provided an additional £1.5m to help improve patient throughput at dental surgeries throughout Northern Ireland. This funding helped practices reduce the fallow time between patients by investing in improved ventilation or through the purchase of high-volume suction devices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019928%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340517"}},{"id":"340516","reference":"AQW 19927/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-04","answerBy":"2021-06-21","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the Sub Regional Stadia Programme.","answerText":"I had asked that my officials review the Programme to provide an up-to-date robust evidence base on the challenges, strategic priorities and both the current and the future needs.\n\nThe Refresh and Re-engagement Exercise is now completed and the full analysis of the outcomes of this work, along with benchmarking and research, will inform my proposals.\n\nI intend to update Executive colleagues in the coming weeks on the way forward for the Programme.","answerHtml":"I had asked that my officials review the Programme to provide an up-to-date robust evidence base on the challenges, strategic priorities and both the current and the future needs.
The Refresh and Re-engagement Exercise is now completed and the full analysis of the outcomes of this work, along with benchmarking and research, will inform my proposals.
I intend to update Executive colleagues in the coming weeks on the way forward for the Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019927%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340516"}},{"id":"340265","reference":"AQW 19855/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-03","answerBy":"2021-06-18","answered":"2021-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the steps they have been taken to ensure any EU nationals that wish to remain in Northern Ireland apply for the EU settlement scheme.","answerText":"While Immigration including the EUSS are not devolved matters we acknowledge the valuable contribution EU Nationals living here make to our society, culture and economy. Officials continue to liaise with the Home Office on the impacts of EUSS and also keep in close contact with STEP and Advice NI, the local organisations funded by the Home Office to provide assistance and advice to those applying to the Scheme.\n\nTo encourage uptake, The Executive Office has supplemented the UK wide public information campaign with a local campaign and since March 2021 has expanded this to cover TV, out-of-home and press advertising to help target individuals such as the elderly who are harder to reach.\n\nThe advertising features EU citizens who have made their home here and the messaging encourages friends, family and colleagues to make sure EU citizens know how to apply to the scheme and where to find more information.","answerHtml":"While Immigration including the EUSS are not devolved matters we acknowledge the valuable contribution EU Nationals living here make to our society, culture and economy. Officials continue to liaise with the Home Office on the impacts of EUSS and also keep in close contact with STEP and Advice NI, the local organisations funded by the Home Office to provide assistance and advice to those applying to the Scheme.
To encourage uptake, The Executive Office has supplemented the UK wide public information campaign with a local campaign and since March 2021 has expanded this to cover TV, out-of-home and press advertising to help target individuals such as the elderly who are harder to reach.
The advertising features EU citizens who have made their home here and the messaging encourages friends, family and colleagues to make sure EU citizens know how to apply to the scheme and where to find more information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019855%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340265","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340265"}},{"id":"340264","reference":"AQW 19854/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-03","answerBy":"2021-06-18","answered":"2021-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail the number of people on furlough who are receiving the maximum payment of £2,500 per month; and (ii) for an update on the anticipated number of workers currently on furlough who will cease to be employed when the scheme ends.","answerText":"HMRC does not publish statistics on the value of furlough claims at a regional level. Latest data show that there have been around 11.6m unique jobs supported by the furlough scheme in the UK since its inception with a total of approximately £65.9bn claimed.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, provisional figures from the latest HMRC release show that there have been around 285,500 unique jobs supported by the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) since its inception. This is approximately 2.5% of cumulative employments furloughed in the UK.\n\nProvisional figures also show that some 58,600 employments were furloughed at 31 May 2021 using the CJRS. This is a decrease from 92,900 employments furloughed at 30 April and from 102,200 furloughed at 31 March and numbers are at their lowest since the time series began (1st July 2020).\n\nIt is welcome that just over 34,000 workers have come off furlough in May but I am aware that there are still a lot of people in need of this vital UK Government support.\n\nThis clearly demonstrates the impact that lockdowns have had on the local labour market and the benefits to the economy, businesses and our people of easing them safely.\n\nIt is difficult to predict the anticipated number of workers currently on furlough who will cease to be employed when the scheme ends. However, it is inevitable that my Department will see an increase in people seeking support that we have in place.\n\nThis is why my Department’s Economic Recovery Action Plan and 10X Vision is of utmost importance. Economic recovery will need to be nurtured in order to minimise the possible scarring effects on the economy. We need to look forward to a ‘10X Economy’ by doubling down on our efforts to rebuild a stronger economy, by embracing the changes that the pandemic has forced upon us with confidence and ambition and by striving towards a decade of innovation.\n\nFor all of our people, this means better jobs with better wages, in a more flexible working environment and a better overall quality of life with an overall outcome that sees Northern Ireland positioned amongst the elite small advanced economies in the world.","answerHtml":"HMRC does not publish statistics on the value of furlough claims at a regional level. Latest data show that there have been around 11.6m unique jobs supported by the furlough scheme in the UK since its inception with a total of approximately £65.9bn claimed.
In Northern Ireland, provisional figures from the latest HMRC release show that there have been around 285,500 unique jobs supported by the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (CJRS) since its inception. This is approximately 2.5% of cumulative employments furloughed in the UK.
Provisional figures also show that some 58,600 employments were furloughed at 31 May 2021 using the CJRS. This is a decrease from 92,900 employments furloughed at 30 April and from 102,200 furloughed at 31 March and numbers are at their lowest since the time series began (1st July 2020).
It is welcome that just over 34,000 workers have come off furlough in May but I am aware that there are still a lot of people in need of this vital UK Government support.
This clearly demonstrates the impact that lockdowns have had on the local labour market and the benefits to the economy, businesses and our people of easing them safely.
It is difficult to predict the anticipated number of workers currently on furlough who will cease to be employed when the scheme ends. However, it is inevitable that my Department will see an increase in people seeking support that we have in place.
This is why my Department’s Economic Recovery Action Plan and 10X Vision is of utmost importance. Economic recovery will need to be nurtured in order to minimise the possible scarring effects on the economy. We need to look forward to a ‘10X Economy’ by doubling down on our efforts to rebuild a stronger economy, by embracing the changes that the pandemic has forced upon us with confidence and ambition and by striving towards a decade of innovation.
For all of our people, this means better jobs with better wages, in a more flexible working environment and a better overall quality of life with an overall outcome that sees Northern Ireland positioned amongst the elite small advanced economies in the world.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019854%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340264","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340264"}},{"id":"340263","reference":"AQW 19853/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-03","answerBy":"2021-06-18","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of cyber and telephone scams; and (ii) to detail the steps she has taken to counteract this threat.","answerText":"Advances in technology over the past few years have resulted in scams happening more online and by telephone, although postal scams and doorstep scams still occur. Prevention by raising public awareness, through a multi partner approach, is crucial.\n\nMy Department is a member of the Scamwise NI Partnership which is chaired by the PSNI and has over 45 partners who work collaboratively to raise awareness of scams. Other key partners include the NI Policing Board, Trading Standards NI, the Consumer Council, the Commissioner for Older People, representatives from the retail and banking sector including Royal Mail and the Post Office and a number of faith and youth groups.\n\nThe Communications Regulator joined the Partnership at the start of this year and will assist the Partnership in working more closely with mobile phone network operators and internet providers to prevent scams. I understand that Ofcom, supported by the telecommunications industry, is currently leading on work to transition the UK telephone network to Voice Over Internet Protocol technology (VOIP) by 2025. This will enable a technical solution to prevent number ‘spoofing’ where a caller impersonates another number. This method of ‘spoofing’ caller numbers is frequently seen in Northern Ireland and used to impersonate banks and utilities to obtain personal financial details or other sensitive information.\n\nAs part of its awareness raising activities, the Scamwise NI Partnership has developed a series of books aimed at raising awareness of scams. These are: The Little Book of Big Scams; The Little Book of Cyber Scams and the Little Booklet of Phone Scams. These books provide a comprehensive guide to how scams operate, how people can fall victim to fraudsters and most importantly, how people can protect themselves and spot scams. The Little Book of Cyber Scams was developed jointly by the Scamwise NI Partnership and The PSNI Cyber Security Centre.\n\nMore recently, with a funding contribution from my Department, the Partnership developed a new series of video clips to ensure that the Scamwise message reaches a wide audience through social media. The short video clips, which include information on scams such as Covid purchase of non-existing goods, mandate fraud and email hijacking, have been rolled out across PSNI, Scamwise and NI direct social media platforms as well as shared with the scamwise partners.\n\nMy Department uses its own social media channels including Twitter & Instagram to highlight current scams and inform the public about what they should be wary of. These channels also signpost the public to the NI Direct Scamwise NI page for up to date information and support as well as highlighting who to contact if some-one fears they have been targeted by a scam, including contact details for the PSNI and Action Fraud.","answerHtml":"Advances in technology over the past few years have resulted in scams happening more online and by telephone, although postal scams and doorstep scams still occur. Prevention by raising public awareness, through a multi partner approach, is crucial.
My Department is a member of the Scamwise NI Partnership which is chaired by the PSNI and has over 45 partners who work collaboratively to raise awareness of scams. Other key partners include the NI Policing Board, Trading Standards NI, the Consumer Council, the Commissioner for Older People, representatives from the retail and banking sector including Royal Mail and the Post Office and a number of faith and youth groups.
The Communications Regulator joined the Partnership at the start of this year and will assist the Partnership in working more closely with mobile phone network operators and internet providers to prevent scams. I understand that Ofcom, supported by the telecommunications industry, is currently leading on work to transition the UK telephone network to Voice Over Internet Protocol technology (VOIP) by 2025. This will enable a technical solution to prevent number ‘spoofing’ where a caller impersonates another number. This method of ‘spoofing’ caller numbers is frequently seen in Northern Ireland and used to impersonate banks and utilities to obtain personal financial details or other sensitive information.
As part of its awareness raising activities, the Scamwise NI Partnership has developed a series of books aimed at raising awareness of scams. These are: The Little Book of Big Scams; The Little Book of Cyber Scams and the Little Booklet of Phone Scams. These books provide a comprehensive guide to how scams operate, how people can fall victim to fraudsters and most importantly, how people can protect themselves and spot scams. The Little Book of Cyber Scams was developed jointly by the Scamwise NI Partnership and The PSNI Cyber Security Centre.
More recently, with a funding contribution from my Department, the Partnership developed a new series of video clips to ensure that the Scamwise message reaches a wide audience through social media. The short video clips, which include information on scams such as Covid purchase of non-existing goods, mandate fraud and email hijacking, have been rolled out across PSNI, Scamwise and NI direct social media platforms as well as shared with the scamwise partners.
My Department uses its own social media channels including Twitter & Instagram to highlight current scams and inform the public about what they should be wary of. These channels also signpost the public to the NI Direct Scamwise NI page for up to date information and support as well as highlighting who to contact if some-one fears they have been targeted by a scam, including contact details for the PSNI and Action Fraud.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019853%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340263","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340263"}},{"id":"340262","reference":"AQW 19852/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-03","answerBy":"2021-06-18","answered":"2021-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance for an update on any conversations he has had with the UK Government regarding the Executive’s ability to change tax levels in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have repeatedly made the point that the Executive needs greater fiscal powers and I advised the Chief Secretary to the Treasury (CST) in February 2021 of my then intention to establish a Fiscal Commission to carry out a comprehensive review of the case for increasing the fiscal powers available to us. The Commission, chaired by Paul Johnston, was established shortly after that and I will be meeting with them in July to discuss the progress they have made in undertaking this important work.\n\nMore recently I wrote to the CST on 14 June to press him to take urgent action to remove Air Passenger Duty to support the recovery of aviation and our connectivity which will be vital as we emerge from the pandemic.","answerHtml":"I have repeatedly made the point that the Executive needs greater fiscal powers and I advised the Chief Secretary to the Treasury (CST) in February 2021 of my then intention to establish a Fiscal Commission to carry out a comprehensive review of the case for increasing the fiscal powers available to us. The Commission, chaired by Paul Johnston, was established shortly after that and I will be meeting with them in July to discuss the progress they have made in undertaking this important work.
More recently I wrote to the CST on 14 June to press him to take urgent action to remove Air Passenger Duty to support the recovery of aviation and our connectivity which will be vital as we emerge from the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019852%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340262","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340262"}},{"id":"340085","reference":"AQW 19785/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-02","answerBy":"2021-06-07","answered":"2021-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why travellers entering Northern Ireland from amber-list countries are unable to use free-to-order lateral flow tests for their two and eight-day post-arrival testing; (ii) under what circumstances are lateral flow tests considered an appropriate method of testing; (iii) to explain these different approaches; and (iv) to explain the reasons for the £175 per person charge for post-arrival testing kits.","answerText":"Travellers entering Northern Ireland from amber-list countries must take a post-arrival day two and day eight PCR test;\n\nand (iii) Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) are different to PCR and are used for a different purpose.\n\nPeople with symptoms of COVID-19 must continue to be tested using a PCR test.\n\nLFDs are most effectively used for regular testing of people who are asymptomatic – that is, people who are not displaying symptoms of COVID but who may who have the virus and may be spreading it unwittingly. LFDs are effective at detecting a high viral load in an individual. These are people who are thought to be the most infectious.\n\nThe cost of a post-arrival test varies depending on the test provider and has fallen since the launch of private sector testing. .","answerHtml":"Travellers entering Northern Ireland from amber-list countries must take a post-arrival day two and day eight PCR test;
and (iii) Lateral Flow Devices (LFDs) are different to PCR and are used for a different purpose.
People with symptoms of COVID-19 must continue to be tested using a PCR test.
LFDs are most effectively used for regular testing of people who are asymptomatic – that is, people who are not displaying symptoms of COVID but who may who have the virus and may be spreading it unwittingly. LFDs are effective at detecting a high viral load in an individual. These are people who are thought to be the most infectious.
The cost of a post-arrival test varies depending on the test provider and has fallen since the launch of private sector testing. .
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019785%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340085","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340085"}},{"id":"340083","reference":"AQW 19783/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-02","answerBy":"2021-06-17","answered":"2021-06-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of current levels of animal cruelty; and (ii) what changes have been observed in the number, severity and type of incidents during the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"There was a decrease in the number of animal welfare complaints received by my Department, local councils and the Police Service of Northern Ireland in 2019 when compared with previous years.\n\nMy Department is currently gathering data in respect of animal welfare complaints received in 2020. At this juncture, it has no evidence to suggest that incidents of animal cruelty have risen significantly during the pandemic or that there has been any substantial change the nature or severity of any incidents investigated.","answerHtml":"There was a decrease in the number of animal welfare complaints received by my Department, local councils and the Police Service of Northern Ireland in 2019 when compared with previous years.
My Department is currently gathering data in respect of animal welfare complaints received in 2020. At this juncture, it has no evidence to suggest that incidents of animal cruelty have risen significantly during the pandemic or that there has been any substantial change the nature or severity of any incidents investigated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019783%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=340083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=340083"}},{"id":"339934","reference":"AQW 19729/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-01","answerBy":"2021-06-16","answered":"2021-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what measures of previous years’ business were used to formulate the amount given to holiday rental accommodation owners and operators when determining their Localised Restrictions Support Scheme grant.","answerText":"The Localised Restriction Support Scheme (LRSS) was established to provide financial support to certain businesses which were required to close or severely limit operations at their premises under the Health Protection Regulations that have been put in place by the Executive.\n\nThree levels of financial support were provided under the LRSS, depending on based on the Net Annual Valuation (NAV) of the property. The NAV of the property was used as a proxy measure of the size of the business since larger businesses typically occupy larger premises. The weekly payment amounts of £800, £1,200 and £1,600 were agreed by the Executive for all types of business. This approach was adopted as it was straightforward to administer and allowed the support to be paid quickly to the businesses that needed it.\n\nMeasures of previous years’ business were not used to determine the amount of support for holiday rental accommodation businesses, or indeed any other kind of business. Tailoring the amount of support paid to individual businesses on the basis of turnover in prior years would have been administratively complex and time consuming, would have delayed the release of the funding and would have excluded newly formed businesses from the support.","answerHtml":"The Localised Restriction Support Scheme (LRSS) was established to provide financial support to certain businesses which were required to close or severely limit operations at their premises under the Health Protection Regulations that have been put in place by the Executive.
Three levels of financial support were provided under the LRSS, depending on based on the Net Annual Valuation (NAV) of the property. The NAV of the property was used as a proxy measure of the size of the business since larger businesses typically occupy larger premises. The weekly payment amounts of £800, £1,200 and £1,600 were agreed by the Executive for all types of business. This approach was adopted as it was straightforward to administer and allowed the support to be paid quickly to the businesses that needed it.
Measures of previous years’ business were not used to determine the amount of support for holiday rental accommodation businesses, or indeed any other kind of business. Tailoring the amount of support paid to individual businesses on the basis of turnover in prior years would have been administratively complex and time consuming, would have delayed the release of the funding and would have excluded newly formed businesses from the support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019729%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339934"}},{"id":"339933","reference":"AQW 19728/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-01","answerBy":"2021-06-16","answered":"2021-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline (i) the current regulations on buffet-style dining in hotels and restaurants; and (ii) his plans for enabling staff to manage buffet dining arrangements, similar to the policy used during the easing of lockdown restrictions during the summer of 2020.","answerText":"The Executive has committed to a four-week review cycle, where we monitor the data on a range of health and societal impacts, before considering what relaxations can be made safely, with the next review to be held on 10th June. While the Executive formally reviews and make decisions on restrictions every four weeks, our monitoring cycle provides us with the ability to move more rapidly on emerging priorities should the need arise before the next review point.\n\nOn 3 June, the Executive agreed that table service is no longer a requirement in unlicensed hospitality settings. These amendments came into effect on Friday 4th June 2021 at 12.30pm in order to facilitate weekend trade. These provisions apply to establishments such as cafés and coffee shops and any restaurant that does not provide alcohol on their premises.\n\nTable service continues to remain a requirement for licensed premises such as pubs, with an exemption for those providing a meal service in the form of a buffet or carvery.","answerHtml":"The Executive has committed to a four-week review cycle, where we monitor the data on a range of health and societal impacts, before considering what relaxations can be made safely, with the next review to be held on 10th June. While the Executive formally reviews and make decisions on restrictions every four weeks, our monitoring cycle provides us with the ability to move more rapidly on emerging priorities should the need arise before the next review point.
On 3 June, the Executive agreed that table service is no longer a requirement in unlicensed hospitality settings. These amendments came into effect on Friday 4th June 2021 at 12.30pm in order to facilitate weekend trade. These provisions apply to establishments such as cafés and coffee shops and any restaurant that does not provide alcohol on their premises.
Table service continues to remain a requirement for licensed premises such as pubs, with an exemption for those providing a meal service in the form of a buffet or carvery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019728%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339933","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339933"}},{"id":"339932","reference":"AQW 19727/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-01","answerBy":"2021-06-16","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs pursuant to AQW 18902/17-22, for his assessment of (i) the potential for a profitable and sustainable hemp industry in Northern Ireland; (ii) the uses of hemp across all industries; and (iii) the ability of local farmers to successfully grow the crop.","answerText":"Thank you to your follow up question to your AQW 18902/17-22, where I responded that my Department has not, at present, conducted any assessment of the potential for developing hemp production on land currently used for other types of farming.\n\nI am unable to provide details in relation to parts (i) and (ii) of your question, as these matters relate to the processing, manufacturing and use of hemp in wider industry and extend beyond my Department's remit. I suggest that the Department for the Economy and Invest NI may be able to comment in relation to these matters.\n\nIn relation to part (iii) of your question, my Department does not assess or keep a record of farmers’ abilities. However, based on my ongoing experience of the local farming sector, our Northern Ireland farmers are highly capable and adaptable and the husbandry practices for growing arable crops in Northern Ireland are applicable to hemp.","answerHtml":"Thank you to your follow up question to your AQW 18902/17-22, where I responded that my Department has not, at present, conducted any assessment of the potential for developing hemp production on land currently used for other types of farming.
I am unable to provide details in relation to parts (i) and (ii) of your question, as these matters relate to the processing, manufacturing and use of hemp in wider industry and extend beyond my Department's remit. I suggest that the Department for the Economy and Invest NI may be able to comment in relation to these matters.
In relation to part (iii) of your question, my Department does not assess or keep a record of farmers’ abilities. However, based on my ongoing experience of the local farming sector, our Northern Ireland farmers are highly capable and adaptable and the husbandry practices for growing arable crops in Northern Ireland are applicable to hemp.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019727%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339932"}},{"id":"339931","reference":"AQW 19726/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-06-01","answerBy":"2021-06-16","answered":"2021-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the percentage of non-integrated schools where the majority declared religious background of pupils is less than two-thirds of the total; and (ii) the percentage of integrated schools where the majority declared religious background of pupils is less than two-thirds of the total.","answerText":"Majority declared religion was identified by calculating a percentage for each of the five pupil religion categories using the total enrolment of each school as the denominator. If one of these percentages was 66.7 % or above for a school then that school was not included in the percentages below.\n\nThe annual school census collects the religion of all pupils attending grant aided schools. In this instance the five pupil religion categories are Protestant, Roman Catholic, Other Christian, Non-Christian, no religion/not recorded. The answer below refers to the 2020/21 academic year.\n\nThe percentage of non-integrated primary and post primary schools where the majority declared religious background of pupils is less than two thirds of the total was 25%.\n\nThe percentage of integrated primary and post primary schools where the majority declared religious background of pupils is less than two thirds of the total was 95%.","answerHtml":"Majority declared religion was identified by calculating a percentage for each of the five pupil religion categories using the total enrolment of each school as the denominator. If one of these percentages was 66.7 % or above for a school then that school was not included in the percentages below.
The annual school census collects the religion of all pupils attending grant aided schools. In this instance the five pupil religion categories are Protestant, Roman Catholic, Other Christian, Non-Christian, no religion/not recorded. The answer below refers to the 2020/21 academic year.
The percentage of non-integrated primary and post primary schools where the majority declared religious background of pupils is less than two thirds of the total was 25%.
The percentage of integrated primary and post primary schools where the majority declared religious background of pupils is less than two thirds of the total was 95%.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019726%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339931"}},{"id":"339671","reference":"AQO 2150/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-27","answerBy":"2021-06-07","answered":"2021-06-07","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline her plans to support food tourism.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"I thank the Member for her question. Food and drink tourism plays an essential role in the visitor economy. In 2019, 5·3 million overnight trips in Northern Ireland generated over £1 billion of revenue. Food and drink accounted for approximately 30% of that spend: £350 million. Tourism NI research tells us that visitors position food and drink as one of the top five factors when choosing a destination. The Northern Ireland Year of Food and Drink in 2016 played a central role in showcasing our food revolution and resulted in Northern Ireland being awarded the world’s best food destination at the International Travel and Tourism Awards in 2018-19, which highlighted the growing strength and recognition of our food and drink offering. I recently launched the next phase of my tourism recovery action plan to respond to the devastating impact of COVID-19. The plan includes a range of measures to stimulate consumer confidence and demand and to enhance the competitiveness of our tourism sector. Food and drink will be an integral part of those measures as the continued development of the sector remains critical to our recovery."},{"speaker":"","text":"For example, under Tourism NI’s recent experience development programme for 2020-21, food and drink experiences represented approximately one third of successful awards, which is commensurate with the overall contribution to the economy. A total of 11 food and drink tourism businesses were awarded over £1·5 million to enhance the experience that they offer to visitors."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Minister. I appreciate your recognition of the importance of food and drink to our wider tourism sector in Northern Ireland. Is the Department developing any specific programmes to support the sector? For example, we have a wonderful platform on the north coast called Taste Causeway, and rolling out something similar across Northern Ireland would be really beneficial. With the pandemic, a number of food producers and food trucks have popped up across Northern Ireland, but people want to know where they are so that they can go to them. I am keen to hear the Minister's thoughts on how we can do better, specifically in food tourism."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"The Member is absolutely right. In the middle of lockdown, many of us relied heavily on pop-up offerings of food and drink and so on when we were out and about. That area that will continue to grow over the next number of years. Taste Causeway was funded via Invest NI's collaborative growth programme. It was awarded a phase 2 grant of £169,200. That funding allowed Taste Causeway to draw in further funding from DAERA, Tourism NI and the local council, which in many ways enhanced the experience and the drive for growth in one of the most important aspects of the industry. We have just launched our tourism recovery action plan. That is a fully funded action plan that, we hope, will help to revive and revitalise not only tourism but the food and drink element over the next year. Everyone in the House recognises and acknowledges the real difficulties that our hotels, restaurants etc have experienced over the past year. We have put many schemes in place to support them over the past year, and I hope that our tourism recovery action plan will help them to recover from a very difficult time."},{"speaker":"Dr Archibald","text":"As the Minister who has responsibility for tourism and economic development and who leads Invest NI and, jointly, Tourism Ireland, does she agree that it is entirely inappropriate and disrespectful to her as Minister and to the Executive — in fact, it undermines the Executive and devolution — for the British Secretary of State to appoint someone without any consultation to a role that is mooted to be about promoting investment in tourism, which cuts directly across the work of the NI bureau and Invest NI in the States, with no oversight or input from the Executive?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Of course, I take a contrary view to the Member. I think that the appointment of Trevor Ringland is an entirely positive one. There is room for all of us to do our bit to promote Northern Ireland as a wonderful place to live, to invest and to do business in. It can only help to grow jobs and prosperity in Northern Ireland. The Member should remember that it is not only Noraid's voice that needs to be heard in America."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"What steps is the Minister's Department taking to ensure that hospitality outlets can source product from local agri-food and drinks organisations? For example, is there a dedicated website? Are there meet-and-greet events to ensure that hospitality outlets are aware of what they can source locally?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"That question comes up regularly. It is important that the Member acknowledge that some of our restaurants, food and hospitality outlets are amazing at sourcing and promoting local food in Northern Ireland. I am constantly amazed at the breadth and variety and at the lengths to which our restaurants go to promote local food. We therefore do not have to look very far to do that. Through Invest NI, we continue to work with local companies and the local agri-food sector to promote Northern Ireland produce. Recently, in conjunction with the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, I announced a review of the agri-food sector. I encourage the House and those who are listening to respond to that review. It is really important that we launch a new drive to promote the provenance, safety and traceability of food in Northern Ireland. A short while ago, I was delighted to visit the Foyle Food Group up in Londonderry. I was also delighted to see a tweet from the British ambassador to Washington, who had been able to enjoy steak from Northern Ireland. It was the first meat provided by the United Kingdom to America in a long time, and it came from Northern Ireland. I understand that many of our companies are looking for USDA approval. The opportunities are enormous."},{"speaker":"Mr McGlone","text":"Minister, many employers in a number of sectors, particularly hospitality but also construction, have vacancies and cannot find staff. Some of their staff returned home to the European mainland during the pandemic, while others have found alternative employment. What methods are being used by the Department, or what actions are being taken, to try to help those employers identify and recruit new staff?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"The Member has addressed something that even political opponents in the Chamber will admit has been a passion of mine since taking up office. If we are to grow the Northern Ireland economy, we have to grow the skills of our people and widen the opportunities for people to get more and better skills. We have a fantastic programme called Assured Skills, which operates academies. The Member will be very familiar with the advanced manufacturing sector in his constituency. We have run very successful academies for people in that sector and in the wider construction sector. Welding is one example. All the participants in a recent Assured Skills academy on welding that was run at the North West Regional College achieved employment after they had finished. In the past number of weeks, I was delighted to be at the opening of a new college in Banbridge, which represents a £15 million investment in the future of skills in Northern Ireland. A new college has also been opened in Armagh, which represents a £35 million investment. A new college in the south-west represents a £35 million investment. We are on-site with a new college in Coleraine, have a contract out for a new college in Ballymena and have a new college in Dungannon. Those are all really important investments in the future of skills in Northern Ireland."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202150%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339671","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-06-07&docID=339983#AQO%202150/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339671"}},{"id":"339441","reference":"AQW 19516/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when live indoor and outdoor music performances will be allowed to recommence.","answerText":"In the period since this question was tabled the Executive has taken a series of carefully considered steps to bring us to the current position and as part of that live music performances, both indoors and outdoors are permitted.","answerHtml":"In the period since this question was tabled the Executive has taken a series of carefully considered steps to bring us to the current position and as part of that live music performances, both indoors and outdoors are permitted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019516%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339441"}},{"id":"339440","reference":"AQW 19515/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what steps she has taken in reviews of the Planning Act to encourage the reuse and retrofitting of existing buildings as opposed to new builds.","answerText":"I am keen to encourage the reuse of existing buildings as opposed to new buildings wherever possible. Indeed, furthering sustainable development is at the heart of my Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and the planning system. The SPPS makes provision for the re-use and adaptation (or ‘retrofitting’) of existing buildings and specifies that the planning system should help to mitigate and adapt to climate change by, among other things, “promoting sustainable patterns of development, including the sustainable re-use of historic buildings where appropriate”. It also makes specific provision for the conversion and re-use of existing buildings in the countryside for residential and a variety of other non-residential uses; and, for certain farm diversification schemes where proposals involve the re-use or adaption of existing buildings.\n\nIn addition, regional policy supports the re-use of existing buildings in a number of scenarios, including listed buildings, where redevelopment would “secure the ongoing viability and upkeep of the building”. Also, the Planning (Use Classes) Order (NI) 2015 can help by prescribing the circumstances where a change of use is not regarded as involving development, where the former use and new use are both within the same class specified in the Order.\n\nCouncils throughout Northern Ireland are currently bringing forward their new Local Development Plans which will include locally tailored planning policies on a range of topics, including for the reuse of existing buildings. In doing so they must take account of regional policy in the SPPS.\n\nAlthough the reuse and retrofitting of existing buildings as opposed to new builds, falls outside the scope of the current review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, I can assure you it is an important part of my commitment to ensure sustainable development remains central to planning policy going forward.","answerHtml":"I am keen to encourage the reuse of existing buildings as opposed to new buildings wherever possible. Indeed, furthering sustainable development is at the heart of my Department’s Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and the planning system. The SPPS makes provision for the re-use and adaptation (or ‘retrofitting’) of existing buildings and specifies that the planning system should help to mitigate and adapt to climate change by, among other things, “promoting sustainable patterns of development, including the sustainable re-use of historic buildings where appropriate”. It also makes specific provision for the conversion and re-use of existing buildings in the countryside for residential and a variety of other non-residential uses; and, for certain farm diversification schemes where proposals involve the re-use or adaption of existing buildings.
In addition, regional policy supports the re-use of existing buildings in a number of scenarios, including listed buildings, where redevelopment would “secure the ongoing viability and upkeep of the building”. Also, the Planning (Use Classes) Order (NI) 2015 can help by prescribing the circumstances where a change of use is not regarded as involving development, where the former use and new use are both within the same class specified in the Order.
Councils throughout Northern Ireland are currently bringing forward their new Local Development Plans which will include locally tailored planning policies on a range of topics, including for the reuse of existing buildings. In doing so they must take account of regional policy in the SPPS.
Although the reuse and retrofitting of existing buildings as opposed to new builds, falls outside the scope of the current review of the implementation of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, I can assure you it is an important part of my commitment to ensure sustainable development remains central to planning policy going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019515%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339440"}},{"id":"339439","reference":"AQW 19514/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the steps that are being taken to ensure social distancing can be maintained on public transport as traveller and commuter numbers continue to rise; and (ii) on what Translink services, and at what times, are more than three train carriages used.","answerText":"On 3 July 2020, my Department issued ‘Safer Transport Guidance for Public Transport Operators During Coronavirus’, aimed at helping public transport operators assess and address the risks of COVID-19 in the public transport sector and provide safer workplaces and services for themselves, their staff and passengers. The guidance is available at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/safer-transport-guidance-public-transport-operators-during-coronavirus.\n\nIn addition to this, Translink is taking all reasonable steps to help people make informed choices and facilitate compliance with social distancing where possible. These include:\n\nManaging customer flows, providing clear signage, driving up compliance with face covering wearing, whilst ensuring all staff comply with enhanced PPE requirements;\n\nRunning more and longer trains, where possible, to maximise capacity;\n\nMaking better, more timely and accurate, information available about the quieter times to travel, with new smartphone-based channels that let people know about busier services;\n\nContinuing with visible enhanced cleaning regimes on-trains and in stations with fogging technology, wiping down touch points, and weekly sample testing, along with hand sanitisation stations at all main locations;\n\nNo change policy and encouraging more card payments;\n\nIncreased ventilation on all services; and\n\nMonitoring services and, where issues are identified regarding social distancing, additional relief buses or trains where possible.\n\nSix car trains currently operate on the following services:\n\n0712 Newry to Great Victoria Street - Monday to Friday.\n\n0725 Larne to Great Victoria Street - Monday to Friday.\n\n1710 Great Victoria Street to Derry -Monday to Friday.\n\nAll weekend services on the Derry line.","answerHtml":"On 3 July 2020, my Department issued ‘Safer Transport Guidance for Public Transport Operators During Coronavirus’, aimed at helping public transport operators assess and address the risks of COVID-19 in the public transport sector and provide safer workplaces and services for themselves, their staff and passengers. The guidance is available at the following link:
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/publications/safer-transport-guidance-public-transport-operators-during-coronavirus.
In addition to this, Translink is taking all reasonable steps to help people make informed choices and facilitate compliance with social distancing where possible. These include:
Managing customer flows, providing clear signage, driving up compliance with face covering wearing, whilst ensuring all staff comply with enhanced PPE requirements;
Running more and longer trains, where possible, to maximise capacity;
Making better, more timely and accurate, information available about the quieter times to travel, with new smartphone-based channels that let people know about busier services;
Continuing with visible enhanced cleaning regimes on-trains and in stations with fogging technology, wiping down touch points, and weekly sample testing, along with hand sanitisation stations at all main locations;
No change policy and encouraging more card payments;
Increased ventilation on all services; and
Monitoring services and, where issues are identified regarding social distancing, additional relief buses or trains where possible.
Six car trains currently operate on the following services:
0712 Newry to Great Victoria Street - Monday to Friday.
0725 Larne to Great Victoria Street - Monday to Friday.
1710 Great Victoria Street to Derry -Monday to Friday.
All weekend services on the Derry line.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019514%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339439"}},{"id":"339438","reference":"AQW 19513/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-26","answerBy":"2021-06-11","answered":"2021-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of care home residents; (ii) the number who make personal financial contributions to their care; and (iii) the number who pay top up fees, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The table below refers. The figures quoted have been provided by each Trust as at 31 March 2021, however it should be noted that these are approximate and some may exclude:-\n\nPrivate funders who pay care homes directly and do not receive any financial assistance from the Trust;\n\nThose whose top-up is paid directly to the home.\n\nTo provide this information would require an extensive manual exercise.\n\nTRUST\tNumber of Residents\tNumber of clients who make a financial contribution\tNumber of clients with a 3rd party top-up\nBelfast\t2545\t2,498\t527\nNorthern\t3367\t2987\t846\nSouth Eastern\t2362\t2137\t476\nSouthern\t2068\t2059\t164\nWestern\t1,701\t1662\t444","answerHtml":"The table below refers. The figures quoted have been provided by each Trust as at 31 March 2021, however it should be noted that these are approximate and some may exclude:-
Private funders who pay care homes directly and do not receive any financial assistance from the Trust;
Those whose top-up is paid directly to the home.
To provide this information would require an extensive manual exercise.
| TRUST | Number of Residents | Number of clients who make a financial contribution | Number of clients with a 3rd party top-up |
| Belfast | 2545 | 2,498 | 527 |
| Northern | 3367 | 2987 | 846 |
| South Eastern | 2362 | 2137 | 476 |
| Southern | 2068 | 2059 | 164 |
| Western | 1,701 | 1662 | 444 |
The policy on charging top-up fees, or third party charges is detailed in Departmental guidance ECCU 1/2010 ‘Care Management, Provision of Services and Charging Guidance’ (https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/hsc-eccu-1-2010.pdf).
This states that HSC Trusts must contract for placements at the most competitive rate available, which it considers suitable for meeting the individual’s assessed need, even where this is not obtainable at the regional rate. Where a Trust has contracted at that rate there is no top-up.
Should a service user select accommodation which is more expensive than other appropriate accommodation which the HSC Trust can secure at a lower rate (for example, because they wish to have a better room in a particular home or a more expensive care home), the HSC Trust will facilitate that choice, but the additional cost must be met by a third party such as a family member of friend. This is what is known as a top-up.
Whilst the aim should always be to facilitate choice for service users’, Trusts have a parallel responsibility to secure the best value for money and protect the public funds for which they are accountable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019512%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339437"}},{"id":"339162","reference":"AQW 19429/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) what consideration is given to retrofitting and reusing existing buildings prior to agreeing to publically funded new-build projects; and (ii) for his assessment of how retrofitting as opposed to new-builds would contribute to Northern Ireland’s carbon output.","answerText":"The Reform of Property Management team strategically manages the Benchmarked Office Estate (BMO) and seeks to utilise current buildings before looking at alternative new leased or new build accommodation. My Department also has responsibility for managing the Civil Service Office Estate, which forms part of the BMO and for all accommodation projects proportionate business cases are undertaken which consider a range of options. Retrofitting and reuse is normally considered as an option with the preferred option selected on value for money and affordability considerations.\n\nAs the Benchmarked Office Estate is a small proportion of the entire public sector estate, retrofitting as opposed to new build would likely have a negligible contribution to carbon output here.","answerHtml":"The Reform of Property Management team strategically manages the Benchmarked Office Estate (BMO) and seeks to utilise current buildings before looking at alternative new leased or new build accommodation. My Department also has responsibility for managing the Civil Service Office Estate, which forms part of the BMO and for all accommodation projects proportionate business cases are undertaken which consider a range of options. Retrofitting and reuse is normally considered as an option with the preferred option selected on value for money and affordability considerations.
As the Benchmarked Office Estate is a small proportion of the entire public sector estate, retrofitting as opposed to new build would likely have a negligible contribution to carbon output here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019429%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339162","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339162"}},{"id":"339161","reference":"AQW 19428/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail (i) the amount of funding sought for the Paramilitary Crime Task Force in 2021/22; (ii) the amount ring-fenced for the Task Force; and (iii) any other funding that is available for the Task Force.","answerText":"On 30 July 2020, the Executive approved a three year extension of the Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime programme. Funding of £13m is available for the Programme in 2021/22. The Executive has provided £8m of funding, with a further £5m being provided by the British Government. From this £13m allocation, the cross Departmental Programme Board has allocated some £5.72m for the Paramilitary Crime Taskforce.\n\nThe entire £13m of funding for the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism Programme has been ringfenced.\n\nA further £10m of funding has been made available over three years by the NIO for the Communities in Transition project. This project is also part of the wider Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme.\n\nGoing forward, it is my intention to commission a Budget process in the next few months. This process will look to set Budget allocations for Departments for the 2022-25 period. This Budget process will allow the Executive the opportunity to consider and agree the level of funding to be allocated to the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism Programme in these future years.","answerHtml":"On 30 July 2020, the Executive approved a three year extension of the Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime programme. Funding of £13m is available for the Programme in 2021/22. The Executive has provided £8m of funding, with a further £5m being provided by the British Government. From this £13m allocation, the cross Departmental Programme Board has allocated some £5.72m for the Paramilitary Crime Taskforce.
The entire £13m of funding for the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism Programme has been ringfenced.
A further £10m of funding has been made available over three years by the NIO for the Communities in Transition project. This project is also part of the wider Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme.
Going forward, it is my intention to commission a Budget process in the next few months. This process will look to set Budget allocations for Departments for the 2022-25 period. This Budget process will allow the Executive the opportunity to consider and agree the level of funding to be allocated to the Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism Programme in these future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019428%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339161"}},{"id":"339160","reference":"AQW 19427/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) whether funding for the JobStart scheme is ring-fenced in this year’s budget; (ii) the total anticipated cost of the scheme; and (iii) when the first workers are expected to commence employment.","answerText":"My Department was allocated £20 million of ring-fenced Covid-19 funding for the JobStart Scheme in 2021/22.\n\nThe total anticipated cost of the Scheme is £24.584 million, spanning the financial years 2021/22 and 2022/23. This was detailed in the Outline Business Case which was approved by the Department of Finance in November 2020.\n\nThe first young people were appointed to jobs via the JobStart Scheme in May 2021.","answerHtml":"My Department was allocated £20 million of ring-fenced Covid-19 funding for the JobStart Scheme in 2021/22.
The total anticipated cost of the Scheme is £24.584 million, spanning the financial years 2021/22 and 2022/23. This was detailed in the Outline Business Case which was approved by the Department of Finance in November 2020.
The first young people were appointed to jobs via the JobStart Scheme in May 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019427%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339160","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339160"}},{"id":"339159","reference":"AQW 19426/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the reform of adult care and support.","answerText":"I have asked Departmental officials to bring forward proposals for my consideration, in line with the key objectives for reform as proposed in the ‘Power to People’ report. However, you will appreciate that this work had been significantly interrupted doing the Covid-19 response and progress in 20/21 had been delayed.\n\nA paper which is currently being developed and will be presented to me for consideration by summer 2021, after which, an extensive public consultation will take place.\n\nOn 4th May I also announced plans to establish a Social Care Fair Work Forum – The Forum is based on the recognition that delivering fair pay and conditions for the workforce will “improve the lives of workers, enhance the quality of care provision and strengthen the long term resilience of the sector by assisting it to recruit, develop and retain committed, skilled and well-motivated workers”.","answerHtml":"I have asked Departmental officials to bring forward proposals for my consideration, in line with the key objectives for reform as proposed in the ‘Power to People’ report. However, you will appreciate that this work had been significantly interrupted doing the Covid-19 response and progress in 20/21 had been delayed.
A paper which is currently being developed and will be presented to me for consideration by summer 2021, after which, an extensive public consultation will take place.
On 4th May I also announced plans to establish a Social Care Fair Work Forum – The Forum is based on the recognition that delivering fair pay and conditions for the workforce will “improve the lives of workers, enhance the quality of care provision and strengthen the long term resilience of the sector by assisting it to recruit, develop and retain committed, skilled and well-motivated workers”.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019426%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339159","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339159"}},{"id":"339158","reference":"AQW 19425/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-25","answerBy":"2021-06-10","answered":"2021-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the (i) coronavirus mortality rates for people with dementia; (ii) impact of the social isolation resulting from lockdown measures on those living with dementia; and to detail the steps he is taking to prevent similar outcomes in any future wave of the virus.","answerText":"I have previously noted with concern the NISRA report in December 2020, which highlighted that in Covid-linked deaths that were registered between March 2020 and September 2020, 36% of those patients had a form of dementia. Given that nearly half (44%) of Covid-19 related deaths up to end September were residents of care homes, and nearly two-thirds (65.5%) were aged 80 or over, this may explain in part the high numbers but it does not make it any more acceptable. I am aware also that many people living with dementia will have other significant health vulnerabilities and needs that place them at particular risk from the Covid-19 virus.\n\nThe Alzheimer’s Society’s report “Worst Hit: Dementia during Coronavirus” highlighted the impact of Coronavirus, not only on those with dementia, but on their carers as well. The report provided an insight into how those with dementia have been affected, not only in terms of the virus itself and associated deaths, but also isolation and the link to deterioration of physical health, and the impact on mental health.\n\nI acknowledge that for those living with dementia, the impact of social isolation has been detrimental in many cases. Lockdown measures have been difficult for everyone but impaired cognition and lack of understanding of the need for restrictions, together with the reduction in service provision (such as day centres and short-breaks) has created particular challenges for people with a dementia and their carers.\n\nProfessionals working in dementia care also recognise and report that the isolation resulting from lockdown measures is a possible contributory factor in many individuals presenting with more advanced symptoms than might ordinarily have been the case if the pandemic had not occurred. The expected increase in numbers of those presenting with initial or more acute dementia symptoms as a result of lockdown is being addressed by the HSCB, Integrated Care Partnerships and Trusts in their plans for the implementation of the regional Dementia Care Pathway.\n\nTrusts, in collaboration with the HSCB and PHA, have developed Post-Coronavirus Service Recovery Plans, including plans for the full restoration of dementia care services. However, the timescale for this is predicated upon scientific advice and a sustainable reduction in the numbers of people testing positive for the virus.\n\nHealth and Social Care services will seek to learn from experiences during the pandemic and ensure that the lessons learned will inform future planning, design, commissioning and delivery of services.","answerHtml":"I have previously noted with concern the NISRA report in December 2020, which highlighted that in Covid-linked deaths that were registered between March 2020 and September 2020, 36% of those patients had a form of dementia. Given that nearly half (44%) of Covid-19 related deaths up to end September were residents of care homes, and nearly two-thirds (65.5%) were aged 80 or over, this may explain in part the high numbers but it does not make it any more acceptable. I am aware also that many people living with dementia will have other significant health vulnerabilities and needs that place them at particular risk from the Covid-19 virus.
The Alzheimer’s Society’s report “Worst Hit: Dementia during Coronavirus” highlighted the impact of Coronavirus, not only on those with dementia, but on their carers as well. The report provided an insight into how those with dementia have been affected, not only in terms of the virus itself and associated deaths, but also isolation and the link to deterioration of physical health, and the impact on mental health.
I acknowledge that for those living with dementia, the impact of social isolation has been detrimental in many cases. Lockdown measures have been difficult for everyone but impaired cognition and lack of understanding of the need for restrictions, together with the reduction in service provision (such as day centres and short-breaks) has created particular challenges for people with a dementia and their carers.
Professionals working in dementia care also recognise and report that the isolation resulting from lockdown measures is a possible contributory factor in many individuals presenting with more advanced symptoms than might ordinarily have been the case if the pandemic had not occurred. The expected increase in numbers of those presenting with initial or more acute dementia symptoms as a result of lockdown is being addressed by the HSCB, Integrated Care Partnerships and Trusts in their plans for the implementation of the regional Dementia Care Pathway.
Trusts, in collaboration with the HSCB and PHA, have developed Post-Coronavirus Service Recovery Plans, including plans for the full restoration of dementia care services. However, the timescale for this is predicated upon scientific advice and a sustainable reduction in the numbers of people testing positive for the virus.
Health and Social Care services will seek to learn from experiences during the pandemic and ensure that the lessons learned will inform future planning, design, commissioning and delivery of services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019425%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=339158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=339158"}},{"id":"338989","reference":"AQW 19334/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-24","answerBy":"2021-06-09","answered":"2021-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) the current provision of mental health support available in schools; (ii) any plans he has to improve services; and (iii) his assessment of the benefits of early intervention on mental health issues affecting school children.","answerText":"The mental health and wellbeing of children and young people continues to be a high priority for the Department of Education (DE).\n\nIn addition to pastoral care provision in schools and services provided by the Education Authority, school counselling is currently available to all post primary aged pupils in post primary schools, Education Otherwise Than At School (EOTAS) Provisions and special schools through the Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS).\n\nThe recently published Framework for Children & Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education, and the accompanying Implementation Plan, will enhance the support provided for pupils, with a focus on promotion, prevention and early intervention, through an integrated approach between Education and Health.\n\nThis includes a primary school counselling pilot, along with new school nursing services; multi-disciplinary primary school support; enhanced Education Authority support and a new CAMHS Emotional Wellbeing in Schools service. Work is progressing to implement the programmes, some of which have already commenced.\n\nThis combination of promotion, prevention and early intervention collectively provide an opportunity to support children and young people before difficulties emerge and/or escalate. This will benefit society as a whole by reducing the impact of mental health problems.\n\nA copy of the Framework document is available at Children & Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework (final version) | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk), and the Implementation Plan can be accessed at Children & Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework Implementation Plan - February 2021 | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk)\n\nThe Implementation Plan is a “live document” and will be closely monitored and evaluated to ensure it is meeting need.\n\nFinally, I can advise that a further £5m has been made available for another Wellbeing Fund in 2021/22 which will go direct to all schools (nursery, primary, post primary, special), as well as EOTAS and Youth Settings to help address wellbeing pressures arising as a result of COVID-19. By receiving their own allocation, settings will benefit from having the flexibility to use the money to provide health and wellbeing support based on the specific needs of their pupils and/or staff.","answerHtml":"The mental health and wellbeing of children and young people continues to be a high priority for the Department of Education (DE).
In addition to pastoral care provision in schools and services provided by the Education Authority, school counselling is currently available to all post primary aged pupils in post primary schools, Education Otherwise Than At School (EOTAS) Provisions and special schools through the Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS).
The recently published Framework for Children & Young People’s Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education, and the accompanying Implementation Plan, will enhance the support provided for pupils, with a focus on promotion, prevention and early intervention, through an integrated approach between Education and Health.
This includes a primary school counselling pilot, along with new school nursing services; multi-disciplinary primary school support; enhanced Education Authority support and a new CAMHS Emotional Wellbeing in Schools service. Work is progressing to implement the programmes, some of which have already commenced.
This combination of promotion, prevention and early intervention collectively provide an opportunity to support children and young people before difficulties emerge and/or escalate. This will benefit society as a whole by reducing the impact of mental health problems.
A copy of the Framework document is available at Children & Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework (final version) | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk), and the Implementation Plan can be accessed at Children & Young People's Emotional Health and Wellbeing in Education Framework Implementation Plan - February 2021 | Department of Education (education-ni.gov.uk)
The Implementation Plan is a “live document” and will be closely monitored and evaluated to ensure it is meeting need.
Finally, I can advise that a further £5m has been made available for another Wellbeing Fund in 2021/22 which will go direct to all schools (nursery, primary, post primary, special), as well as EOTAS and Youth Settings to help address wellbeing pressures arising as a result of COVID-19. By receiving their own allocation, settings will benefit from having the flexibility to use the money to provide health and wellbeing support based on the specific needs of their pupils and/or staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019334%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338989"}},{"id":"338988","reference":"AQW 19333/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-24","answerBy":"2021-06-09","answered":"2021-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he plans to make maximum use of the community and voluntary sector’s experience in mental health issues.","answerText":"I am fully aware of the hugely important role our Community and Voluntary sector plays in supporting our communities’ mental health, providing much needed advice and wellbeing support, as well as commissioned services as part of the Stepped Care Model. I also recognise that organisations in this sector have come under incredible pressure during the pandemic, as they seek to support more people with less resources, and in hugely difficult circumstances.\n\nIn recognition of this, I recently announced the establishment of a £10M Mental Health Charities Support Fund that will equip and enable these charities in providing a wide range of support services for people with mental ill health and help to ensure that those who need to can continue to access mental health support services in the community.\n\nAs you are also aware, my Department is currently developing a new Mental Health Strategy and integration of the community and voluntary sector in mental health service delivery across Northern Ireland will be a particular focus within the Strategy.\n\nIncluding the community and voluntary sector in the planning, development and delivery of mental health services will help to deliver better outcomes for patients and going forward, it is intended that all service delivery mechanisms must consider the role of the sector. The significant improvements to mental health services that we are seeking to deliver will only be possible with the input of the community and voluntary sector.","answerHtml":"I am fully aware of the hugely important role our Community and Voluntary sector plays in supporting our communities’ mental health, providing much needed advice and wellbeing support, as well as commissioned services as part of the Stepped Care Model. I also recognise that organisations in this sector have come under incredible pressure during the pandemic, as they seek to support more people with less resources, and in hugely difficult circumstances.
In recognition of this, I recently announced the establishment of a £10M Mental Health Charities Support Fund that will equip and enable these charities in providing a wide range of support services for people with mental ill health and help to ensure that those who need to can continue to access mental health support services in the community.
As you are also aware, my Department is currently developing a new Mental Health Strategy and integration of the community and voluntary sector in mental health service delivery across Northern Ireland will be a particular focus within the Strategy.
Including the community and voluntary sector in the planning, development and delivery of mental health services will help to deliver better outcomes for patients and going forward, it is intended that all service delivery mechanisms must consider the role of the sector. The significant improvements to mental health services that we are seeking to deliver will only be possible with the input of the community and voluntary sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019333%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338988","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338988"}},{"id":"338987","reference":"AQW 19332/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-24","answerBy":"2021-06-09","answered":"2021-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the current and planned policies to promote positive health within health services generally, other than mental health services.","answerText":"The ethos of my Department is to promote positive health and all policies are reflective of this. Specifically, Making Life Better (MLB) is our ten year public health strategic framework provides direction for policies and actions to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Northern Ireland. The framework focusses on the broad range of social, economic and environmental factors which influence health and wellbeing. It brings together actions at government level and provides direction for implementation at regional and local level, including actions to improve health and work.","answerHtml":"The ethos of my Department is to promote positive health and all policies are reflective of this. Specifically, Making Life Better (MLB) is our ten year public health strategic framework provides direction for policies and actions to improve the health and wellbeing of people in Northern Ireland. The framework focusses on the broad range of social, economic and environmental factors which influence health and wellbeing. It brings together actions at government level and provides direction for implementation at regional and local level, including actions to improve health and work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019332%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338987","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338987"}},{"id":"338985","reference":"AQW 19330/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-24","answerBy":"2021-06-09","answered":"2021-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the number of people that have sought help for eating disorders in each of the last five years; and (ii) for his assessment of the scale of the problem beyond the scope of health services.","answerText":"The table below shows the number of referrals number of people to the each of the Health and Social Care Trust Eating Disorder Services. The figures are the total number of people seeking help of both the Adult Eating Disorder services and Child Eating Disorder services in each Trust. Figures for both the Belfast and South Eastern Trust have also been combined as the Belfast Trust provides Specialist Eating Disorder Services to South Eastern Trust.\n\nYear\tBelfast Trust &\nSouth Eastern Trust\tWestern\nTrust\tNorthern\nTrust\tSouthern\nTrust\n2016/2017\t164\t161\t145\t137\n2017/2018\t176\t188\t169\t192\n2018/2019\t146\t169\t193\t156\n2019/2020\t166\t170\t158\t167\n2020/2021\t198\t176\t187\t186\n\nWhile Northern Ireland already has a regional network for the provision of services for people with an eating disorder, outcomes for these patients could be improved. I recently approved the strategic policy direction for future eating disorder services flowing from a review carried out by the Regional Eating Disorder Network Group (REDNG), and this has been reflected in the recently published Mental Health Strategy 2021-31. The Strategy highlights, in Action 29d, the need to “Enhance the regional eating disorder service”. The planning for the Strategy implementation is ongoing and will be dependent on the approval of further funding.","answerHtml":"The table below shows the number of referrals number of people to the each of the Health and Social Care Trust Eating Disorder Services. The figures are the total number of people seeking help of both the Adult Eating Disorder services and Child Eating Disorder services in each Trust. Figures for both the Belfast and South Eastern Trust have also been combined as the Belfast Trust provides Specialist Eating Disorder Services to South Eastern Trust.
| Year | Belfast Trust & South Eastern Trust | Western Trust | Northern Trust | Southern Trust |
| 2016/2017 | 164 | 161 | 145 | 137 |
| 2017/2018 | 176 | 188 | 169 | 192 |
| 2018/2019 | 146 | 169 | 193 | 156 |
| 2019/2020 | 166 | 170 | 158 | 167 |
| 2020/2021 | 198 | 176 | 187 | 186 |
While Northern Ireland already has a regional network for the provision of services for people with an eating disorder, outcomes for these patients could be improved. I recently approved the strategic policy direction for future eating disorder services flowing from a review carried out by the Regional Eating Disorder Network Group (REDNG), and this has been reflected in the recently published Mental Health Strategy 2021-31. The Strategy highlights, in Action 29d, the need to “Enhance the regional eating disorder service”. The planning for the Strategy implementation is ongoing and will be dependent on the approval of further funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019330%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338985","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338985"}},{"id":"338841","reference":"AQW 19267/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-06-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline the steps she is taking to boost social inclusion among older people and how the Active Ageing Strategy has been affected by COVID-19.","answerText":"My Department is supporting the safe return of a wide range of community services and activities that allow people to reconnect, share experiences and reduce the social isolation felt during the pandemic. Funding is being provided for programmes and to specific organisations which have an impact on older people, e.g. People and Place/Neighbourhood Renewal, the Community Support Programme, and Volunteer Now. The Housing Executive is also delivering initiatives to address isolation and encourage social inclusion among older people including via Supporting People housing-related support services.\n\nThe Active Ageing Strategy was extended and refreshed, with Executive approval, to cover the period 2016-2022. The refreshed Strategy builds on and updates the original actions from 2016 and adds further actions to improve the wellbeing of older people, including actions focused on mitigating the medium to- longer term effects of Covid-19 on the older population.\n\nThe Strategy is currently being evaluated with input from a range of internal and external stakeholders in preparation for the development of a new strategy from May 2022.","answerHtml":"My Department is supporting the safe return of a wide range of community services and activities that allow people to reconnect, share experiences and reduce the social isolation felt during the pandemic. Funding is being provided for programmes and to specific organisations which have an impact on older people, e.g. People and Place/Neighbourhood Renewal, the Community Support Programme, and Volunteer Now. The Housing Executive is also delivering initiatives to address isolation and encourage social inclusion among older people including via Supporting People housing-related support services.
The Active Ageing Strategy was extended and refreshed, with Executive approval, to cover the period 2016-2022. The refreshed Strategy builds on and updates the original actions from 2016 and adds further actions to improve the wellbeing of older people, including actions focused on mitigating the medium to- longer term effects of Covid-19 on the older population.
The Strategy is currently being evaluated with input from a range of internal and external stakeholders in preparation for the development of a new strategy from May 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019267%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338841"}},{"id":"338840","reference":"AQW 19266/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on artistic institutions, organisations and communities, and to outline the anticipated long term repercussions.","answerText":"I recognise the significant challenges that are being faced across the arts sector as we seek to tackle COVID-19. Restrictions on gatherings and the need for social distancing have impacted on practice, performance and the development of talent, and on the financial position of individuals and organisations across the arts and the wider creative and heritage sectors.\n\nI have established the Culture, Arts & Heritage Taskforce to advise on, among other things, how those sectors might be supported while the restrictions continue and as they ease. That work will include the nature of further support that might be required for the individuals and organisations impacted by the restrictions across the arts and heritage. I have welcomed the recent allocation of an additional £13m from the Executive to support the sector going forward, and the Taskforce will have an important role to play in informing how this funding could be directed.","answerHtml":"I recognise the significant challenges that are being faced across the arts sector as we seek to tackle COVID-19. Restrictions on gatherings and the need for social distancing have impacted on practice, performance and the development of talent, and on the financial position of individuals and organisations across the arts and the wider creative and heritage sectors.
I have established the Culture, Arts & Heritage Taskforce to advise on, among other things, how those sectors might be supported while the restrictions continue and as they ease. That work will include the nature of further support that might be required for the individuals and organisations impacted by the restrictions across the arts and heritage. I have welcomed the recent allocation of an additional £13m from the Executive to support the sector going forward, and the Taskforce will have an important role to play in informing how this funding could be directed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019266%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338840"}},{"id":"338839","reference":"AQW 19265/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what action is being taken to ensure there is adequate local housing provision in areas with high numbers of second homes.","answerText":"I am committed to addressing housing stress and increasing the supply of social housing in those areas of greatest need. My efforts are based on the Housing Executive’s cross-tenure assessments of housing need which per area factor in all relevant characteristics of the local housing economy.\n\nMy Department’s Social Housing Development Programme is a three year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes based on the identification and analysis of social housing need by geographical area. A major part of the housing programme announced on 3 November, 2020 was my intention to introduce the ring-fencing of part of the Development Programme’s budget so as to improve its targeting of need.\n\nOther actions to ensure that social housing is prioritised in areas of greatest need are also being considered, including fully utilising available public land for housing development. I also want to protect this new supply and the existing stock of social homes. To this end, I am currently seeking Executive approval to carry out a consultation on the Housing Executive House Sales Scheme in the very near future.\n\nIn parallel, I am also progressing work to increase the range of other housing options. This includes the provision of Financial Transactions Capital funding for shared ownership and progressing research to explore the potential for a new intermediate rent product.\n\nFinally, my programme of work also encompasses the development of a Housing Supply Strategy that seeks to identify and address those whole system issues which impact on supply across all tenures. The first formal stage in the development of this Strategy was my launch of a Call for Evidence on 19 May.","answerHtml":"I am committed to addressing housing stress and increasing the supply of social housing in those areas of greatest need. My efforts are based on the Housing Executive’s cross-tenure assessments of housing need which per area factor in all relevant characteristics of the local housing economy.
My Department’s Social Housing Development Programme is a three year rolling programme of planned social housing schemes based on the identification and analysis of social housing need by geographical area. A major part of the housing programme announced on 3 November, 2020 was my intention to introduce the ring-fencing of part of the Development Programme’s budget so as to improve its targeting of need.
Other actions to ensure that social housing is prioritised in areas of greatest need are also being considered, including fully utilising available public land for housing development. I also want to protect this new supply and the existing stock of social homes. To this end, I am currently seeking Executive approval to carry out a consultation on the Housing Executive House Sales Scheme in the very near future.
In parallel, I am also progressing work to increase the range of other housing options. This includes the provision of Financial Transactions Capital funding for shared ownership and progressing research to explore the potential for a new intermediate rent product.
Finally, my programme of work also encompasses the development of a Housing Supply Strategy that seeks to identify and address those whole system issues which impact on supply across all tenures. The first formal stage in the development of this Strategy was my launch of a Call for Evidence on 19 May.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019265%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338839"}},{"id":"338838","reference":"AQW 19264/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any discussions she has had with Northern Ireland's universities regarding reimbursing halls of residence fees paid by students who had no face-to-face lectures during the tenancy and who didn’t use the accommodation.","answerText":"Earlier this year, I wrote to Northern Ireland’s universities and university colleges, on behalf of students, asking them to consider how they might support their students by engaging with private accommodation providers, as well as reviewing their own accommodation policies (where applicable) to ensure they are fair, transparent and have the best interests of students at heart.\n\nOver the course of the pandemic, the universities have taken measures such as rental pauses and releasing students from accommodation contracts, in order to relieve some of the financial strains being experienced by students.\n\nI subsequently secured an additional £37.7million from the Executive to fund a financial support package for higher education. This package includes £3.1million to compensate universities for lost income arising from rental pauses and releasing students from accommodation contracts.","answerHtml":"Earlier this year, I wrote to Northern Ireland’s universities and university colleges, on behalf of students, asking them to consider how they might support their students by engaging with private accommodation providers, as well as reviewing their own accommodation policies (where applicable) to ensure they are fair, transparent and have the best interests of students at heart.
Over the course of the pandemic, the universities have taken measures such as rental pauses and releasing students from accommodation contracts, in order to relieve some of the financial strains being experienced by students.
I subsequently secured an additional £37.7million from the Executive to fund a financial support package for higher education. This package includes £3.1million to compensate universities for lost income arising from rental pauses and releasing students from accommodation contracts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019264%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338838"}},{"id":"338837","reference":"AQW 19263/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-21","answerBy":"2021-06-08","answered":"2021-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the amount of (i) domestic; and (ii) commercial waste that went to landfill or was recycled, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The amount of household waste, collected by District Councils, sent to landfill and for recycling is shown in the table below:\n\nyear\tHousehold waste sent to landfill (Tonnes)\tHousehold waste sent for recycling (Tonnes)\n2019/20\t208,336\t456,855\n2018/19\t250,078\t439,882\n2017/18\t280,141\t420,265\n2016/17\t321,906\t389,045\n2015/16\t342,133\t363,647\n\nThese figures can be found in Tables 15 & 16 of the local authority collected municipal waste (LACMW) annual report data tables for the years 2015/16 to 2019/20 published on the Departments website:\n\nhttps://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-local-authority-collected-municipal-waste-management-statistics\n\nWhilst the Department separately records the amount of household waste to landfill it does not separately record the remaining waste to landfill which comprises both commercial and industrial waste including construction and demolition waste. By subtracting household waste landfilled from all waste sent for landfill it is possible to estimate the amount of ‘non-household’ waste landfilled as shown in the table below:\n\nyear\tEstimate of ‘non-household' waste landfilled via all such authorised waste sites in Northern Ireland (rounded to nearest kilo Tonne)\n2019/20\t1,265\n2018/19\t1,210\n2017/18\t1,466\n2016/17\t1,593\n2015/16\t1,237\n\nSimilarly the Department only separately records household waste recycling and does not separate the remaining waste sent for recycling into commercial and industrial categories. By subtracting household waste sent for recycling (which includes preparation for reuse and composting) from all waste sent for recycling it is possible to estimate the amount of ‘non-household’ waste recycled as shown in the table below:\n\nyear\tEstimates of ‘non-household' waste sent for recycling (includes preparation for reuse and composting) via certain authorised waste sites in Northern Ireland (rounded to nearest kilo Tonne)\n2019/20\t4,263\n2018/19\t4,293\n2017/18\t3,872\n2016/17\t3,799\n2015/16\t3,180\n\nIt is important to note that not all authorised waste facilities accepting waste for recycling activities in Northern Ireland are obliged to submit data to the Department. Furthermore where waste sent for recycling passes through more than one authorised waste facility in Northern Ireland, which is obliged to submit data, then these tonnages will be counted on each occasion. It is also the case that some commercial or industrial waste may be transported directly from their point of production to waste facilities in the rest of the UK and will therefore not be reported to the Department. The figures should therefore be considered with due regard to the above caveats.\n\nIt is recognised that more should be done to address these data limitations and this is why the Department is engaging with the other devolved administrations and environment agencies across the UK to consider the introduction of a mandatory online Waste Tracking Service which will record the movement and transfers of all waste.","answerHtml":"The amount of household waste, collected by District Councils, sent to landfill and for recycling is shown in the table below:
| year | Household waste sent to landfill (Tonnes) | Household waste sent for recycling (Tonnes) |
| 2019/20 | 208,336 | 456,855 |
| 2018/19 | 250,078 | 439,882 |
| 2017/18 | 280,141 | 420,265 |
| 2016/17 | 321,906 | 389,045 |
| 2015/16 | 342,133 | 363,647 |
These figures can be found in Tables 15 & 16 of the local authority collected municipal waste (LACMW) annual report data tables for the years 2015/16 to 2019/20 published on the Departments website:
https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/northern-ireland-local-authority-collected-municipal-waste-management-statistics
Whilst the Department separately records the amount of household waste to landfill it does not separately record the remaining waste to landfill which comprises both commercial and industrial waste including construction and demolition waste. By subtracting household waste landfilled from all waste sent for landfill it is possible to estimate the amount of ‘non-household’ waste landfilled as shown in the table below:
| year | Estimate of ‘non-household' waste landfilled via all such authorised waste sites in Northern Ireland (rounded to nearest kilo Tonne) |
| 2019/20 | 1,265 |
| 2018/19 | 1,210 |
| 2017/18 | 1,466 |
| 2016/17 | 1,593 |
| 2015/16 | 1,237 |
Similarly the Department only separately records household waste recycling and does not separate the remaining waste sent for recycling into commercial and industrial categories. By subtracting household waste sent for recycling (which includes preparation for reuse and composting) from all waste sent for recycling it is possible to estimate the amount of ‘non-household’ waste recycled as shown in the table below:
| year | Estimates of ‘non-household' waste sent for recycling (includes preparation for reuse and composting) via certain authorised waste sites in Northern Ireland (rounded to nearest kilo Tonne) |
| 2019/20 | 4,263 |
| 2018/19 | 4,293 |
| 2017/18 | 3,872 |
| 2016/17 | 3,799 |
| 2015/16 | 3,180 |
It is important to note that not all authorised waste facilities accepting waste for recycling activities in Northern Ireland are obliged to submit data to the Department. Furthermore where waste sent for recycling passes through more than one authorised waste facility in Northern Ireland, which is obliged to submit data, then these tonnages will be counted on each occasion. It is also the case that some commercial or industrial waste may be transported directly from their point of production to waste facilities in the rest of the UK and will therefore not be reported to the Department. The figures should therefore be considered with due regard to the above caveats.
It is recognised that more should be done to address these data limitations and this is why the Department is engaging with the other devolved administrations and environment agencies across the UK to consider the introduction of a mandatory online Waste Tracking Service which will record the movement and transfers of all waste.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019263%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338837"}},{"id":"338680","reference":"AQO 2135/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-20","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-06-01","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when indoor and outdoor live music will be able to recommence.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"I am pleased that live music, indoors and outdoors, can now be performed, though subject to a number of limits and specific exclusions in the interests of safety. From 24 May, the number of people permitted at indoor and outdoor gatherings was increased, supporting the return of arts and cultural activities, including live music. The maximum size of an indoor gathering is now based on the capacity of the venue, and up to 500 people can form an audience at an outdoor gathering. Risk assessments and social distancing measures need to be in place, and those new limits do not supersede specific restrictions contained in the legislation on live music in hospitality venues or at post-ceremony celebrations for civil partnerships and weddings. Those steps are welcome and take us a considerable way along the path to the reopening of our culture, arts and heritage sectors, with all the social and economic benefits they bring. However, it is vital that we continue to be careful and stick to the rules and guidance. I recognise the importance of getting our arts and culture sectors up and running again. For that reason, I have established a culture, arts and heritage recovery task force, chaired by Rotha Johnston, with members drawn from across those sectors, including the music industry. I recently met Music NI to discuss some of the specific issues around music venues and events such as festivals. I have asked the task force to consider what further support might be needed for those whose activities and livelihoods continue to be impacted by COVID."},{"speaker":"","text":"The task force will look at measures to support reopening and recovery in the short term and will inform the longer-term work on the strategy for culture, arts and heritage."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for her response. That will be welcome news, not least for the businesses that will depend on live music to aid their recovery. I also acknowledge the Minister's comments about being tentative moving forward. Does the Minister have any concerns about some of the comments from the UK Government about potentially going into a third wave, particularly where big events are concerned? How is she preparing for that potential outcome?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"We are conscious that we moved at a different pace with reopening in our pathway to recovery, and I know that that drew some criticism. We have engaged on that on a weekly basis in the Executive, and I am sure that it will be raised again this week and next week as we start to look at the next phase of easing restrictions. On the one hand, we are moving well with the numbers that we are hitting in our vaccination programme, which is obviously having an impact. Assessments are still being done on the Indian variant and any other variants that may come into play. One of the primary reasons for creating the task force was to start to work with the sector and those with expertise in managing events safely. Those people have done that for pretty much all their working lives, and it is part of the work that they do. We want to engage them. The task force has had meetings and has tried to meet individuals and groups over the last week or so in order that it can come back with firm recommendations on the way forward. I am hopeful that I will be able to make more announcements over the next few short weeks about getting music and events up and running again. There have been pilots of some festival events in Liverpool, and measures have been introduced there. Via the Health Minister, we continue to engage with the Scientific Advisory Group for Emergencies (SAGE) and others on the learning and lessons from those events and how they can be used in what we do here. I will continue to keep Members up to date on that. As I said, we are making those assessments. We are also working with the Department of Health to look at the cultural, economic and social impacts of keeping the current restrictions in place, but I hope that we can start to move to have music and events again in the short term. With the release of the COVID moneys from the Budget, I now have financial support for the culture, arts and music sectors in the short term. That has been welcomed by those sectors."},{"speaker":"Ms Ennis","text":"Minister, those who make a living from performing were obviously some of the most affected by the pandemic. Despite that, they have been to the fore of keeping public morale up by giving online performances. I commend them for that. I also commend the Minister for the supports that she put in place to support that sector. The Minister outlined some of this in her response to previous questions, but does she recognise and agree that there will be a need for continued support for that sector as we progress through the recovery?"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"Yes, there definitely will. That is why I was glad that my full bid for COVID moneys was met with the moneys that were allocated just over two weeks ago. The situation with freelancers has been significant, as they have been directly impacted. That is why I made spaces available on the task force for freelancers. The nominations came from the sectors, and they nominated the people, they felt, could best represent them. Obviously, they are still being impacted, probably more so than other industries, as venues have effectively been shut and they have not been able to play music or participate in live events, festivals or gigs. As part of the COVID moneys for recovery and safe reopening, we continue to work through the task force to look at schemes that we can support them through until we are in the position where society and that part of the economy have fully reopened."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"Minister, for clarity, I understand that Van Morrison is scheduled to appear at the Europa Hotel over four nights starting on 10 June. Are you saying that, if there is an appropriate risk assessment, those concerts can go ahead? Asking for a friend. [Laughter.]"},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"Yes, as long as they keep within the regulations, which say that there will need to be an assessment of the venue size, recognising that venues have different capacities, and that a risk assessment will need to be conducted. There is an issue about how loud music can be in a venue, and they would need to adhere to that. As part of the task force's work, I hope that live music and how loud it can be played will start to be taken forward through more easements over the coming weeks."},{"speaker":"Mr Durkan","text":"I look forward to announcements, hopefully in the near future, on the resumption of music, which will allow performers and ancillary industries to earn a living and enhance our and everyone's enjoyment of life. Will the Minister clarify whether entertainment, specifically stand-up comedy, will fall under the same category as live music, or can it resume on 21 June in line with theatres reopening? That really is on behalf of a friend."},{"speaker":"Ms Hargey","text":"Are you a stand-up comedian? [Laughter.]"},{"speaker":"","text":"I am only joking. The date of 21 June is indicative. We are working with the task force and the Health Department on bringing forward more specifics to start to open venues. Mitigations can be put in place if you are doing stand-up comedy. The issue with music generally from a public health perspective is that the louder the music, the more people have to shout and the more transmission there is of spit and other things. That said, we are actively looking at mitigations that could be put in place. With the indicative date as given, venues can increase capacity, depending on the size of the venue, and have events such as stand-up comedy, while making sure that a risk assessment is carried out. More information will be given after this week's Executive meeting and in the following week, once the Health Department has finished those assessments."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202135%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338680","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-06-01&docID=339497#AQO%202135/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338680"}},{"id":"338489","reference":"AQW 19111/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the amount of blood donated in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The information requested is not available within the Department. The Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) was approached for information. Please see below information provided by the NIBTS detailing the units of whole blood and platelets donated in the last five years.\n\nUnits of whole blood and platelets donated to the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service in the last five years, 2016/17-2020/21.\nDonations\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nWhole Blood\t48,542\t43,706\t43,828\t40,914\t37,491\nPlatelets\t4,632\t4,434\t4,127\t4,196\t3,403\nTotal Donations\t53,174\t48,140\t47,955\t45,110\t40,894\nSource: Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available within the Department. The Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) was approached for information. Please see below information provided by the NIBTS detailing the units of whole blood and platelets donated in the last five years.
| Units of whole blood and platelets donated to the Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service in the last five years, 2016/17-2020/21. | |||||
| Donations | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 |
| Whole Blood | 48,542 | 43,706 | 43,828 | 40,914 | 37,491 |
| Platelets | 4,632 | 4,434 | 4,127 | 4,196 | 3,403 |
| Total Donations | 53,174 | 48,140 | 47,955 | 45,110 | 40,894 |
| Source: Northern Ireland Blood Transfusion Service. |
The Department does not hold information in relation to the number of charges brought in relation to human trafficking offences, as detailed in part (i) of the question. The recording of information on persons charged for offences by the PSNI is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
Information has been provided in relation to the number of prosecutions and convictions at courts for offences under the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 and other offences which specified human trafficking in the description for cases that were dealt with at all courts in Northern Ireland. Departmental datasets do not contain information on the policing district in which an offence took place.
Prosecutions and convictions at courts for offences under human trafficking legislation, 2015 – 2019
| Year | Prosecutions | Convictions |
| 2015 | - | - |
| 2016 | 6 | 4 |
| 2017 | 2 | - |
| 2018 | 7 | 2 |
| 2019 | 4 | 1 |
Note:
1. Figures relate to initial disposals at court. Appeals are not included.
2. Figures relate to cases where there was a prosecution or conviction for at least one human trafficking offence.
3. Figures relate to offences under the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Criminal Justice and Support for Victims) Act (Northern Ireland) 2015 and other offences which specified human trafficking in the offence description.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019110%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338488"}},{"id":"338487","reference":"AQW 19109/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current and planned efforts to promote stem cell donation; and (ii) the facilities that exist in Northern Ireland to receive stem cell donations.","answerText":"During September, my Department ran a campaign during blood cancer awareness month, aimed at raising awareness around the signs and symptoms of blood cancer, and informing people about how they can join the Registry if interested.\n\nAll of the blood cancer registries have very active UK-wide communications strategies and ongoing campaigns which include promotion in Northern Ireland.\n\nNI Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) facilitates promotion through signposting and information leaflets for people interested in becoming donors and has agreed in principle to supporting any further campaigns as it is well placed to promote messages through its network of blood donors.\n\nWithin Northern Ireland, NIBTS does not have a direct role in collecting stem cells or registering potential donors. However, the NHS Stem Cell Registry operates as part of a network of national and international registries which includes the British Bone Marrow Registry, Antony Nolan and DKMS, working together to match suitable potential donors with blood cancer patients who require a transplant.","answerHtml":"During September, my Department ran a campaign during blood cancer awareness month, aimed at raising awareness around the signs and symptoms of blood cancer, and informing people about how they can join the Registry if interested.
All of the blood cancer registries have very active UK-wide communications strategies and ongoing campaigns which include promotion in Northern Ireland.
NI Blood Transfusion Service (NIBTS) facilitates promotion through signposting and information leaflets for people interested in becoming donors and has agreed in principle to supporting any further campaigns as it is well placed to promote messages through its network of blood donors.
Within Northern Ireland, NIBTS does not have a direct role in collecting stem cells or registering potential donors. However, the NHS Stem Cell Registry operates as part of a network of national and international registries which includes the British Bone Marrow Registry, Antony Nolan and DKMS, working together to match suitable potential donors with blood cancer patients who require a transplant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019109%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338487"}},{"id":"338486","reference":"AQW 19108/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to introduce specific age-appropriate care for children and young people in cancer and serious illness services.","answerText":"The provision of age appropriate care for children and young people will be addressed in the new Cancer Strategy which is currently being progressed by my Department. A sub-group of the strategy deals specifically with issues relevant to children and young people, and is making recommendations in the strategy which aim to improve patient experience for children and young people. These recommendations have been developed with expert input from service users, nursing, charities, allied health, and medical representatives. It is envisaged that a public consultation on the draft strategy will be underway over the summer.","answerHtml":"The provision of age appropriate care for children and young people will be addressed in the new Cancer Strategy which is currently being progressed by my Department. A sub-group of the strategy deals specifically with issues relevant to children and young people, and is making recommendations in the strategy which aim to improve patient experience for children and young people. These recommendations have been developed with expert input from service users, nursing, charities, allied health, and medical representatives. It is envisaged that a public consultation on the draft strategy will be underway over the summer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019108%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338486","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338486"}},{"id":"338485","reference":"AQW 19107/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-19","answerBy":"2021-06-04","answered":"2021-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to provide details of any plans to introduce a mechanism for travellers to provide confirmation of a COVID-19 vaccination, similar to those being discussed in Great Britain; and (ii) what plans he has to enable Northern Irish people to access a relevant NHS app to facilitate this.","answerText":"The Department of Health is working on a mechanism to enable proof of vaccination to the agreed standard for travellers. It is anticipated that a paper based option will be available in the first instance, from a specialist printing service.\n\nThis process requires infrastructure to be developed, allowing citizens to request certification which is securely linked to their personal data. Further details will follow shortly.\n\nThere are currently no plans for a mechanism to enable Northern Irish people to access a relevant NHS app to facilitate travel to and from Northern Ireland.\n\nIn the meantime it should be noted that neither GP Practices nor other HSC organisations are able to issue letters for travel purposes.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health is working on a mechanism to enable proof of vaccination to the agreed standard for travellers. It is anticipated that a paper based option will be available in the first instance, from a specialist printing service.
This process requires infrastructure to be developed, allowing citizens to request certification which is securely linked to their personal data. Further details will follow shortly.
There are currently no plans for a mechanism to enable Northern Irish people to access a relevant NHS app to facilitate travel to and from Northern Ireland.
In the meantime it should be noted that neither GP Practices nor other HSC organisations are able to issue letters for travel purposes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019107%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338485"}},{"id":"338280","reference":"AQW 19044/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-18","answerBy":"2021-05-21","answered":"2021-07-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the recent guidance relating to visitors arriving from within the Common Travel Area, (i) who will be responsible for ensuring that those required to self-isolate for 10 days do so; (ii) whether this is law or guidance; and (iii) why this decision was taken relative to other green-list countries.","answerText":"There are currently no restrictions on travel within the Common Travel Area (CTA) and no plans to reintroduce restrictions in this area. If you're travelling from within the CTA and staying overnight in Northern Ireland, it is requested that you take a rapid lateral flow device test (LFD) before you begin your journey and on days two and eight of your stay. You should only travel if the test is negative. You should not travel to Northern Ireland if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have received a positive COVID-19 result. You do not need to fill in a Passenger Locator Form if you’re travelling from within the CTA and you have not been outside the CTA in the last 10 days. If you're travelling from Northern Ireland to other regions of the Common Travel Area and staying overnight, we ask that you take a rapid lateral flow device test (LFD) before you begin your journey home and should only travel if the test is negative. After you return home you should take an LFD test on day two and day eight. You're also subject to the rules of the location to which you are travelling. Advice regarding this is available at CTA Travel Advice and is regularly updated.\n\nWhen making decisions regarding restrictions, or relaxations of these, it needs to be weighed against family, societal and economic considerations. When considering restriction regulations, the Executive maintain the four principles that were agreed in May 2020: focus on purpose; necessity; proportionality; reliance on evidence. The purposes of the Regulations are (i) to protect the health of the population by limiting the spread of COVID-19 infection in order to minimise the numbers of cases and deaths, and (ii) to ensure as far as possible that the health care system has the capacity to care for COVID-19 patients and care for all patients, present and future. Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence.","answerHtml":"There are currently no restrictions on travel within the Common Travel Area (CTA) and no plans to reintroduce restrictions in this area. If you're travelling from within the CTA and staying overnight in Northern Ireland, it is requested that you take a rapid lateral flow device test (LFD) before you begin your journey and on days two and eight of your stay. You should only travel if the test is negative. You should not travel to Northern Ireland if you have COVID-19 symptoms, or have received a positive COVID-19 result. You do not need to fill in a Passenger Locator Form if you’re travelling from within the CTA and you have not been outside the CTA in the last 10 days. If you're travelling from Northern Ireland to other regions of the Common Travel Area and staying overnight, we ask that you take a rapid lateral flow device test (LFD) before you begin your journey home and should only travel if the test is negative. After you return home you should take an LFD test on day two and day eight. You're also subject to the rules of the location to which you are travelling. Advice regarding this is available at CTA Travel Advice and is regularly updated.
When making decisions regarding restrictions, or relaxations of these, it needs to be weighed against family, societal and economic considerations. When considering restriction regulations, the Executive maintain the four principles that were agreed in May 2020: focus on purpose; necessity; proportionality; reliance on evidence. The purposes of the Regulations are (i) to protect the health of the population by limiting the spread of COVID-19 infection in order to minimise the numbers of cases and deaths, and (ii) to ensure as far as possible that the health care system has the capacity to care for COVID-19 patients and care for all patients, present and future. Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019044%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338280"}},{"id":"338279","reference":"AQW 19043/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-18","answerBy":"2021-06-03","answered":"2021-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any correspondence they have had with the UK government regarding extending the deadline for the EU Settlement Scheme, in particular for older people and those in care homes.","answerText":"While Immigration including the EUSS are not devolved matters we acknowledge the valuable contribution EU Nationals living here make to our society, culture and economy.\n\nOfficials continue to liaise with the Home Office on the impacts of EUSS and in regular discussions have encouraged consideration of an extension to the EUSS deadline. They have also sought flexibilities and protections for those having ‘reasonable grounds’ to make a late application. While the Home Office has advised that extension of the deadline is not being considered, guidance on ‘reasonable grounds’ to make a late application has been provided which includes where someone is isolated, vulnerable or who did not have the digital skills to access the application process. This aligns with the barriers older EU Nationals may face.\n\nTo encourage uptake, the Executive Office has supplemented the UK wide public information campaign with a local campaign and since March 2021 has expanded this to cover TV, out-of-home and press advertising to help target individuals such as the elderly who are harder to reach.","answerHtml":"While Immigration including the EUSS are not devolved matters we acknowledge the valuable contribution EU Nationals living here make to our society, culture and economy.
Officials continue to liaise with the Home Office on the impacts of EUSS and in regular discussions have encouraged consideration of an extension to the EUSS deadline. They have also sought flexibilities and protections for those having ‘reasonable grounds’ to make a late application. While the Home Office has advised that extension of the deadline is not being considered, guidance on ‘reasonable grounds’ to make a late application has been provided which includes where someone is isolated, vulnerable or who did not have the digital skills to access the application process. This aligns with the barriers older EU Nationals may face.
To encourage uptake, the Executive Office has supplemented the UK wide public information campaign with a local campaign and since March 2021 has expanded this to cover TV, out-of-home and press advertising to help target individuals such as the elderly who are harder to reach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019043%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338279"}},{"id":"338278","reference":"AQW 19042/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-18","answerBy":"2021-06-03","answered":"2021-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the steps he is taking to protect areas containing marine and coastal carbon stores, such as salt marshes, sea grass and seabed sediments.","answerText":"The importance of marine and coastal carbon stores such as saltmarsh, seagrass, shellfish beds and seabed sediments, and the contribution they can make to climate change mitigation and adaptation, is now widely recognised. Such habitats are often referred to as blue carbon habitats.\n\nTo obtain a better understanding of the Northern Ireland context, my Department has commissioned a number of research studies on blue carbon. The first of these, a feasibility study on blue carbon restoration, was recently published by Ulster Wildlife. Further information can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.ulsterwildlife.org/sites/default/files/2021-05/Blue%20Carbon%20Habitat%20Restoration%20in%20Northern%20Ireland%20-%20A%20Feasibility%20Study.pdf\n\nThe study indicated that at present, more than half of the estimated blue carbon habitats are located within the existing Northern Ireland inshore marine protected area (MPA) network, reinforcing the important role the network has to play in protecting and restoring marine habitats. My Department’s current focus is on establishing effective management across the MPA network. This will be delivered through a number of mechanisms including, the introduction of fisheries management measures, and creation of regional MPA management plans. When introduced, the management plans will provide protection for designated habitats and species, and will also help to protect blue carbon habitats located within MPAs.\n\nI recently launched the Environmental Challenge Fund, and the eligibility and environmental impact priorities include activities that protect and enhance the condition of blue carbon habitats.\n\nMy Department is also developing proposals to further support protection and restoration of marine and coastal carbon stores, and associated targets and objectives are being considered for the future Environment Strategy and the Green Growth Strategy. The recommendations from the Ulster Wildlife feasibility study on blue carbon restoration, will help inform the creation of these targets and objectives.","answerHtml":"The importance of marine and coastal carbon stores such as saltmarsh, seagrass, shellfish beds and seabed sediments, and the contribution they can make to climate change mitigation and adaptation, is now widely recognised. Such habitats are often referred to as blue carbon habitats.
To obtain a better understanding of the Northern Ireland context, my Department has commissioned a number of research studies on blue carbon. The first of these, a feasibility study on blue carbon restoration, was recently published by Ulster Wildlife. Further information can be found at:
https://www.ulsterwildlife.org/sites/default/files/2021-05/Blue%20Carbon%20Habitat%20Restoration%20in%20Northern%20Ireland%20-%20A%20Feasibility%20Study.pdf
The study indicated that at present, more than half of the estimated blue carbon habitats are located within the existing Northern Ireland inshore marine protected area (MPA) network, reinforcing the important role the network has to play in protecting and restoring marine habitats. My Department’s current focus is on establishing effective management across the MPA network. This will be delivered through a number of mechanisms including, the introduction of fisheries management measures, and creation of regional MPA management plans. When introduced, the management plans will provide protection for designated habitats and species, and will also help to protect blue carbon habitats located within MPAs.
I recently launched the Environmental Challenge Fund, and the eligibility and environmental impact priorities include activities that protect and enhance the condition of blue carbon habitats.
My Department is also developing proposals to further support protection and restoration of marine and coastal carbon stores, and associated targets and objectives are being considered for the future Environment Strategy and the Green Growth Strategy. The recommendations from the Ulster Wildlife feasibility study on blue carbon restoration, will help inform the creation of these targets and objectives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019042%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338278"}},{"id":"338277","reference":"AQW 19041/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-18","answerBy":"2021-06-03","answered":"2021-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the breakdown, by sector, of those workers currently on furlough.","answerText":"The latest HMRC information on the furlough scheme shows there were approximately 99,400 employments furloughed in Northern Ireland on 31 March 2021. Of those on furlough locally, almost a third (31%) were partially furloughed.\n\nThe number of employments on furlough in Northern Ireland is broken down by sector in the table below.\n\nSector\tEmployments on Furlough in NI on 31 March 2021\nAgriculture, forestry and fishing, Mining and quarrying, Energy production and supply & Water supply, sewerage and waste\t910\nManufacturing\t9,560\nConstruction\t5,590\nWholesale and retail; repair of motor vehicles\t24,760\nTransportation and storage\t3,080\nAccommodation and food services\t23,290\nInformation and communication, Financial and insurance & Real estate\t3,850\nProfessional and scientific and technical\t4,300\nAdministrative and support services\t4,990\nEducation\t1,470\nHealth and Social Work\t4,150\nArts, entertainment and recreation\t6,150\nOther service activities\t5,060\nPublic administration and defence; social security, Households & Other\t2,290\nTotal\t99,400\n\nThe two sectors with the highest number of people on furlough are Wholesale & Retail and Accommodation & Food Services. It is important to note that these figures relate to March and with the easing of restrictions since then, particularly the reopening of non-essential retail, hospitality and accommodation, I would expect to see further reductions in the number of workers on furlough over the coming months.\n\nHowever, I am pleased the furlough scheme is being made available for businesses until the end of September. That will provide a basis for economic recovery to gain momentum, supported by my Department’s Economic Recovery Action Plan. Building that momentum will be key to delivering my longer term vision for the NI economy as set out in 10X Economy – an economic vision for a decade of innovation.","answerHtml":"The latest HMRC information on the furlough scheme shows there were approximately 99,400 employments furloughed in Northern Ireland on 31 March 2021. Of those on furlough locally, almost a third (31%) were partially furloughed.
The number of employments on furlough in Northern Ireland is broken down by sector in the table below.
| Sector | Employments on Furlough in NI on 31 March 2021 |
| Agriculture, forestry and fishing, Mining and quarrying, Energy production and supply & Water supply, sewerage and waste | 910 |
| Manufacturing | 9,560 |
| Construction | 5,590 |
| Wholesale and retail; repair of motor vehicles | 24,760 |
| Transportation and storage | 3,080 |
| Accommodation and food services | 23,290 |
| Information and communication, Financial and insurance & Real estate | 3,850 |
| Professional and scientific and technical | 4,300 |
| Administrative and support services | 4,990 |
| Education | 1,470 |
| Health and Social Work | 4,150 |
| Arts, entertainment and recreation | 6,150 |
| Other service activities | 5,060 |
| Public administration and defence; social security, Households & Other | 2,290 |
| Total | 99,400 |
The two sectors with the highest number of people on furlough are Wholesale & Retail and Accommodation & Food Services. It is important to note that these figures relate to March and with the easing of restrictions since then, particularly the reopening of non-essential retail, hospitality and accommodation, I would expect to see further reductions in the number of workers on furlough over the coming months.
However, I am pleased the furlough scheme is being made available for businesses until the end of September. That will provide a basis for economic recovery to gain momentum, supported by my Department’s Economic Recovery Action Plan. Building that momentum will be key to delivering my longer term vision for the NI economy as set out in 10X Economy – an economic vision for a decade of innovation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019041%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338277"}},{"id":"338276","reference":"AQW 19040/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-18","answerBy":"2021-06-03","answered":"2021-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the estimated reduction in effectiveness of COVID-19 vaccinations on immunosuppressed individuals, compared to non-immunosuppressed people.","answerText":"This issue was considered and addressed by JCVI in advice issued on 1st September:\n\nJoint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice on third primary dose vaccination - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)\n\nIt was acknowledged by JCVI that some individuals with immunosuppression due to underlying health conditions or medical treatment may not mount a full immune response to COVID-19 vaccination and should receive a third dose of vaccine separate from any booster.\n\nIn further advice issued on 29th November in response to the Omicron variant, JCVI advised should also receive a booster dose 3 months after their third priming dose.\n\nIn consequence of these advices, such individuals were identified and offered a third primary dose. To date over 18,000 people have received a third primary dose in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"This issue was considered and addressed by JCVI in advice issued on 1st September:
Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) advice on third primary dose vaccination - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
It was acknowledged by JCVI that some individuals with immunosuppression due to underlying health conditions or medical treatment may not mount a full immune response to COVID-19 vaccination and should receive a third dose of vaccine separate from any booster.
In further advice issued on 29th November in response to the Omicron variant, JCVI advised should also receive a booster dose 3 months after their third priming dose.
In consequence of these advices, such individuals were identified and offered a third primary dose. To date over 18,000 people have received a third primary dose in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2019040%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338276"}},{"id":"338075","reference":"AQW 18962/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-17","answerBy":"2021-06-02","answered":"2021-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the percentage of lamb and beef, and derived products, sold in Northern Ireland that originate from outside (a) Northern Ireland; (b) the UK; and (c) the UK and EU combined; and (ii) any steps being made to incentivise companies and supermarkets to use Northern Irish beef and lamb.","answerText":"HMRC Regional Trade Statistics show that Northern Ireland imported meat and meat preparations (this includes pig and poultry meat) with a value of £442m from EU and £4m from non-EU in 2020. However, these figures do not necessarily reflect the country of origin of the product but only where the product was purchased from by the Northern Ireland importer. There are no equivalent figures available for trade from GB to NI. The Department does not hold any statistics on the origin of meat and meat products sold in Northern Ireland.\n\nI am passionate about promoting our Northern Ireland food products. My own ambition is for Northern Ireland to be recognised both at home and abroad as a world-class food-producing region, known for its sustainability, quality, safety and knowledge based approach. I have written to the main NI retailers to encourage them to make greater use of product sourced from NI farmers.\n\nIn addition I have recently opened my Department’s Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme, which seeks to raise the profile of quality regional food. This year the programme will also provide support for a NI consumer focused promotional campaign. This campaign will cover all sectors of the NI food industry highlighting the quality, sustainability and reputation of the food that is produced on local farms.","answerHtml":"HMRC Regional Trade Statistics show that Northern Ireland imported meat and meat preparations (this includes pig and poultry meat) with a value of £442m from EU and £4m from non-EU in 2020. However, these figures do not necessarily reflect the country of origin of the product but only where the product was purchased from by the Northern Ireland importer. There are no equivalent figures available for trade from GB to NI. The Department does not hold any statistics on the origin of meat and meat products sold in Northern Ireland.
I am passionate about promoting our Northern Ireland food products. My own ambition is for Northern Ireland to be recognised both at home and abroad as a world-class food-producing region, known for its sustainability, quality, safety and knowledge based approach. I have written to the main NI retailers to encourage them to make greater use of product sourced from NI farmers.
In addition I have recently opened my Department’s Northern Ireland Regional Food Programme, which seeks to raise the profile of quality regional food. This year the programme will also provide support for a NI consumer focused promotional campaign. This campaign will cover all sectors of the NI food industry highlighting the quality, sustainability and reputation of the food that is produced on local farms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018962%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338075"}},{"id":"338074","reference":"AQW 18961/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-17","answerBy":"2021-06-02","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of regular volunteers operating in Northern Ireland; and (ii) the estimated amount these volunteers save the public purse each year.","answerText":"The most recent NISRA survey data on volunteering shows that approximate 28% of the population aged sixteen and over regularly volunteer. This equates to an estimated 416,948 people aged sixteen or over regularly volunteering.\n\nEstimates of value are based on the number of volunteers, hours of volunteering, the type of volunteering and the national/regional average wage.\n\nBased on an assumption that volunteers offer 2 hours per week of their time and valuing this at the average hourly wage we would estimate the\n\neconomic value of volunteering in 2019/20 to be approximately £566million.","answerHtml":"The most recent NISRA survey data on volunteering shows that approximate 28% of the population aged sixteen and over regularly volunteer. This equates to an estimated 416,948 people aged sixteen or over regularly volunteering.
Estimates of value are based on the number of volunteers, hours of volunteering, the type of volunteering and the national/regional average wage.
Based on an assumption that volunteers offer 2 hours per week of their time and valuing this at the average hourly wage we would estimate the
economic value of volunteering in 2019/20 to be approximately £566million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018961%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338074","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338074"}},{"id":"338073","reference":"AQW 18960/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-17","answerBy":"2021-06-02","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the services available for cancer survivors to help improve their quality of life and mitigate any enduring effects of the disease.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, more people than ever are surviving after cancer diagnosis; over half of those diagnosed with cancer today will live for at least 10 years. However, not everyone is living well; as more people survive cancer, the problems associated with late effects, consequences of treatment and long term follow up will grow.\n\nYou may be aware of ongoing work to develop a new Cancer Strategy for NI. The provision of treatment and ongoing support are included as part of the strategy. In addition the strategy will make recommendations which aim to improve patient experience and after care for those receiving cancer treatment and services. All the strategy recommendations have been developed with expert input from service users, nursing, charities, allied health, and medical representatives. It is envisaged that a public consultation on the draft strategy will be underway over the summer.\n\nCancer services have undoubtedly been impacted over this past year by COVID-19. The Department is finalising a Cancer Recovery Plan in response to the pandemic. This plan makes recommendations to support cancer patients while they wait for treatment in addition to after treatment. This includes prehabilitation; prehabilitation enables people with cancer to prepare for treatment by promoting healthy behaviours and prescribing exercise, nutrition and psychological interventions where appropriate to a person’s needs. Delivery of the plan will be subject to the required level of funding.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, more people than ever are surviving after cancer diagnosis; over half of those diagnosed with cancer today will live for at least 10 years. However, not everyone is living well; as more people survive cancer, the problems associated with late effects, consequences of treatment and long term follow up will grow.
You may be aware of ongoing work to develop a new Cancer Strategy for NI. The provision of treatment and ongoing support are included as part of the strategy. In addition the strategy will make recommendations which aim to improve patient experience and after care for those receiving cancer treatment and services. All the strategy recommendations have been developed with expert input from service users, nursing, charities, allied health, and medical representatives. It is envisaged that a public consultation on the draft strategy will be underway over the summer.
Cancer services have undoubtedly been impacted over this past year by COVID-19. The Department is finalising a Cancer Recovery Plan in response to the pandemic. This plan makes recommendations to support cancer patients while they wait for treatment in addition to after treatment. This includes prehabilitation; prehabilitation enables people with cancer to prepare for treatment by promoting healthy behaviours and prescribing exercise, nutrition and psychological interventions where appropriate to a person’s needs. Delivery of the plan will be subject to the required level of funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018960%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338073","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338073"}},{"id":"338072","reference":"AQW 18959/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-17","answerBy":"2021-06-02","answered":"2021-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any support or funding provided to facilitate this year’s Pride celebrations.","answerText":"To date the Department for Communities has not received an application for funding for the 2021 Pride celebrations, however my Department will consider any application when received. My Department will fully participate in this year’s Pride celebrations and my officials are currently planning events to mark Pride 2021.","answerHtml":"To date the Department for Communities has not received an application for funding for the 2021 Pride celebrations, however my Department will consider any application when received. My Department will fully participate in this year’s Pride celebrations and my officials are currently planning events to mark Pride 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018959%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338072"}},{"id":"338071","reference":"AQW 18958/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-17","answerBy":"2021-06-02","answered":"2021-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of people living with multiple sclerosis in Northern Ireland; (ii) the support available for those living with the condition; and (iii) the initiatives in place to raise awareness of MS.","answerText":"On 31st March 2021, there were 2,401 patients being treated for MS, with a further 99 patients suspended from treatment. An additional 18 patients were waiting to commence treatment for MS.\n\nPeople living with MS receive support in primary care through their GP; in secondary care, through Consultant Neurologists and MS clinics, multidisciplinary teams, and through the Northern Ireland Care Advisory Service. Patients also have access to telephone advice lines. Written information on MS and disease modifying treatments are available from the MS Society, MS Trust, pharmaceutical companies and information is also provided about access to counselling and complementary therapies.\n\nMS awareness raising continues through the delivery of information sessions for people newly diagnosed with MS. These sessions are provided in a number of different settings, including one to one meetings and group sessions with an MS Nurse or group information sessions with MS Society. Written information, which includes the use of posters about MS, is also available. In addition, information is also provided via MS clinical trials; the NI MS Research Network, the All Party Parliamentary Group on MS, and through MS awareness week.","answerHtml":"On 31st March 2021, there were 2,401 patients being treated for MS, with a further 99 patients suspended from treatment. An additional 18 patients were waiting to commence treatment for MS.
People living with MS receive support in primary care through their GP; in secondary care, through Consultant Neurologists and MS clinics, multidisciplinary teams, and through the Northern Ireland Care Advisory Service. Patients also have access to telephone advice lines. Written information on MS and disease modifying treatments are available from the MS Society, MS Trust, pharmaceutical companies and information is also provided about access to counselling and complementary therapies.
MS awareness raising continues through the delivery of information sessions for people newly diagnosed with MS. These sessions are provided in a number of different settings, including one to one meetings and group sessions with an MS Nurse or group information sessions with MS Society. Written information, which includes the use of posters about MS, is also available. In addition, information is also provided via MS clinical trials; the NI MS Research Network, the All Party Parliamentary Group on MS, and through MS awareness week.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018958%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338071"}},{"id":"337950","reference":"AQW 18905/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-08-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans for enabling patients in Northern Ireland to access the Duchenne muscular dystrophy drug Translarna on the NHS, in line with England.","answerText":"Highly specialised technologies recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) are available to all suitable patients in Northern Ireland within the parameters set by NICE.\n\nAtaluren (Translarna) for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (HST3) was recommended for use by NICE in July 2016.","answerHtml":"Highly specialised technologies recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) are available to all suitable patients in Northern Ireland within the parameters set by NICE.
Ataluren (Translarna) for treating Duchenne muscular dystrophy (HST3) was recommended for use by NICE in July 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018905%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337950"}},{"id":"337949","reference":"AQW 18904/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 18487/17-22, why the amount spent on agency nursing staff by Health and Social Care Trusts increased in 2019-20 to nearly 600 per cent of the cost in 2015-16.","answerText":"The charging structure within the Agency framework (that is payable by HSC to agencies) is made up of several elements including the equivalent Agenda for Change (AfC) hourly rate for a given pay band, experience level and shift. There should be no difference between what a Trust employee receives and an agency worker receives, assuming they are on the same pay Band and point of the AfC scale.\n\nWhilst the basic hourly rate is the same as AfC, the amount that the agency pays to the individual could vary. Appointments made outside of the Framework will not be the same as they are based on individual agency costs and taking account of demand and supply for the specific post needing to be filled.\n\nPrecisely what an agency nurse is actually paid is not known to the HSC Trust.\n\nHSC Trusts employ agency staff for several reasons, for example, cover for sickness and maternity/paternity leave; cover for existing vacancies; and when demand increases over the winter months. The primary aim of this is to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained at all times for patients and clients.\n\nThe Bengoa expert panel report warned of “stark increases in costs associated with locum and agency staff to provide a safe service where it is not possible to recruit to permanent positions”. It made clear that rising locum and agency costs are due to the current configuration of services and that “changing the model of care” is the only solution. Pending this transformation, locum and agency expenditure is required to maintain safe services and keep hospital units open. It is accepted that ongoing stark increases in these costs are not sustainable in the long-term.\n\nThe agency worker expenditure provided in AQW 18487/17-22 relates to the total nursing & midwifery workforce including registered and support workers. During the period in question it is important to note that the directly employed HSC nursing & midwifery workforce increased by a headcount of 1,033 (4.7%), comparing staff numbers in post at 31st March 2016 with those in post at 31st March 2020. However, HSC nursing & midwifery vacancies actively in recruitment also increased during that period but reached a peak of 3,057 vacancies (12.0%) as at 30th June 2019.\n\nA Regional Agency Reduction Implementation and Planning Group has been established to co-ordinate the improvement of staff utilisation, with the aim of reducing unsustainable agency spend, beginning with off-contract arrangements. The main function of the Group is to develop and implement a plan, with local and regional commitment and coordination, to safely facilitate, and manage the service impact of, reducing unsustainable agency and locum spend.\n\nWe are committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,325) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places.\n\nThis unprecedented level of intake will be in maintained for a minimum of a further 2 years.","answerHtml":"The charging structure within the Agency framework (that is payable by HSC to agencies) is made up of several elements including the equivalent Agenda for Change (AfC) hourly rate for a given pay band, experience level and shift. There should be no difference between what a Trust employee receives and an agency worker receives, assuming they are on the same pay Band and point of the AfC scale.
Whilst the basic hourly rate is the same as AfC, the amount that the agency pays to the individual could vary. Appointments made outside of the Framework will not be the same as they are based on individual agency costs and taking account of demand and supply for the specific post needing to be filled.
Precisely what an agency nurse is actually paid is not known to the HSC Trust.
HSC Trusts employ agency staff for several reasons, for example, cover for sickness and maternity/paternity leave; cover for existing vacancies; and when demand increases over the winter months. The primary aim of this is to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained at all times for patients and clients.
The Bengoa expert panel report warned of “stark increases in costs associated with locum and agency staff to provide a safe service where it is not possible to recruit to permanent positions”. It made clear that rising locum and agency costs are due to the current configuration of services and that “changing the model of care” is the only solution. Pending this transformation, locum and agency expenditure is required to maintain safe services and keep hospital units open. It is accepted that ongoing stark increases in these costs are not sustainable in the long-term.
The agency worker expenditure provided in AQW 18487/17-22 relates to the total nursing & midwifery workforce including registered and support workers. During the period in question it is important to note that the directly employed HSC nursing & midwifery workforce increased by a headcount of 1,033 (4.7%), comparing staff numbers in post at 31st March 2016 with those in post at 31st March 2020. However, HSC nursing & midwifery vacancies actively in recruitment also increased during that period but reached a peak of 3,057 vacancies (12.0%) as at 30th June 2019.
A Regional Agency Reduction Implementation and Planning Group has been established to co-ordinate the improvement of staff utilisation, with the aim of reducing unsustainable agency spend, beginning with off-contract arrangements. The main function of the Group is to develop and implement a plan, with local and regional commitment and coordination, to safely facilitate, and manage the service impact of, reducing unsustainable agency and locum spend.
We are committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,325) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places.
This unprecedented level of intake will be in maintained for a minimum of a further 2 years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018904%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337949"}},{"id":"337948","reference":"AQW 18903/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 18487/17-22, to detail (i) the average hourly expense to Health and Social Care Trusts for agency nursing staff in the year 2019-20; and (ii) the same average hourly expense for nurses directly employed by Trusts.","answerText":"The charging structure within the Agency framework (that is payable by HSC to agencies) is made up of several elements including the equivalent Agenda for Change (AfC) hourly rate for a given pay band, experience level and shift. There should be no difference between what a Trust employee receives and an agency worker receives, assuming they are on the same pay Band and point of the AfC scale.\n\nWhilst the basic hourly rate is the same as AfC, the amount that the agency pays to the individual could vary. Appointments made outside of the Framework will not be the same as they are based on individual agency costs and taking account of demand and supply for the specific post needing to be filled.\n\nPrecisely what an agency nurse is actually paid is not known to the HSC Trust.\n\nHSC Trusts employ agency staff for several reasons, for example, cover for sickness and maternity/paternity leave; cover for existing vacancies; and when demand increases over the winter months. The primary aim of this is to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained at all times for patients and clients.\n\nThe Bengoa expert panel report warned of “stark increases in costs associated with locum and agency staff to provide a safe service where it is not possible to recruit to permanent positions”. It made clear that rising locum and agency costs are due to the current configuration of services and that “changing the model of care” is the only solution. Pending this transformation, locum and agency expenditure is required to maintain safe services and keep hospital units open. It is accepted that ongoing stark increases in these costs are not sustainable in the long-term.\n\nThe agency worker expenditure provided in AQW 18487/17-22 relates to the total nursing & midwifery workforce including registered and support workers. During the period in question it is important to note that the directly employed HSC nursing & midwifery workforce increased by a headcount of 1,033 (4.7%), comparing staff numbers in post at 31st March 2016 with those in post at 31st March 2020. However, HSC nursing & midwifery vacancies actively in recruitment also increased during that period but reached a peak of 3,057 vacancies (12.0%) as at 30th June 2019.\n\nA Regional Agency Reduction Implementation and Planning Group has been established to co-ordinate the improvement of staff utilisation, with the aim of reducing unsustainable agency spend, beginning with off-contract arrangements. The main function of the Group is to develop and implement a plan, with local and regional commitment and coordination, to safely facilitate, and manage the service impact of, reducing unsustainable agency and locum spend.\n\nWe are committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,325) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places.\n\nThis unprecedented level of intake will be in maintained for a minimum of a further 2 years.","answerHtml":"The charging structure within the Agency framework (that is payable by HSC to agencies) is made up of several elements including the equivalent Agenda for Change (AfC) hourly rate for a given pay band, experience level and shift. There should be no difference between what a Trust employee receives and an agency worker receives, assuming they are on the same pay Band and point of the AfC scale.
Whilst the basic hourly rate is the same as AfC, the amount that the agency pays to the individual could vary. Appointments made outside of the Framework will not be the same as they are based on individual agency costs and taking account of demand and supply for the specific post needing to be filled.
Precisely what an agency nurse is actually paid is not known to the HSC Trust.
HSC Trusts employ agency staff for several reasons, for example, cover for sickness and maternity/paternity leave; cover for existing vacancies; and when demand increases over the winter months. The primary aim of this is to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained at all times for patients and clients.
The Bengoa expert panel report warned of “stark increases in costs associated with locum and agency staff to provide a safe service where it is not possible to recruit to permanent positions”. It made clear that rising locum and agency costs are due to the current configuration of services and that “changing the model of care” is the only solution. Pending this transformation, locum and agency expenditure is required to maintain safe services and keep hospital units open. It is accepted that ongoing stark increases in these costs are not sustainable in the long-term.
The agency worker expenditure provided in AQW 18487/17-22 relates to the total nursing & midwifery workforce including registered and support workers. During the period in question it is important to note that the directly employed HSC nursing & midwifery workforce increased by a headcount of 1,033 (4.7%), comparing staff numbers in post at 31st March 2016 with those in post at 31st March 2020. However, HSC nursing & midwifery vacancies actively in recruitment also increased during that period but reached a peak of 3,057 vacancies (12.0%) as at 30th June 2019.
A Regional Agency Reduction Implementation and Planning Group has been established to co-ordinate the improvement of staff utilisation, with the aim of reducing unsustainable agency spend, beginning with off-contract arrangements. The main function of the Group is to develop and implement a plan, with local and regional commitment and coordination, to safely facilitate, and manage the service impact of, reducing unsustainable agency and locum spend.
We are committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,325) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places.
This unprecedented level of intake will be in maintained for a minimum of a further 2 years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018903%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337948","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337948"}},{"id":"337947","reference":"AQW 18902/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for an update on his engagement with farmers and the Northern Ireland Hemp Association regarding the expansion of the industry; and (ii) for his assessment of the opportunities available to farmers of developing hemp production on land currently used for other types of farming.","answerText":"My response dated 8 October 2021 to your AQW 7703/17-22 outlined the engagement there had been between my officials and hemp farmers and the Northern Ireland Hemp Association at that time. There has been no further engagement on the matter since then.\n\nMy Department has not, at present, conducted any assessment of the potential for developing hemp production on land currently used for other types of farming.","answerHtml":"My response dated 8 October 2021 to your AQW 7703/17-22 outlined the engagement there had been between my officials and hemp farmers and the Northern Ireland Hemp Association at that time. There has been no further engagement on the matter since then.
My Department has not, at present, conducted any assessment of the potential for developing hemp production on land currently used for other types of farming.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018902%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337947"}},{"id":"337946","reference":"AQW 18901/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-14","answerBy":"2021-06-01","answered":"2021-05-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to detail any plans or options he has to facilitate an increase in the farm-gate prices that smaller, family-owned farms receive for their meat; and (ii) for his assessment of the threat of industrial farming on such farms.","answerText":"Farms operate within an open competitive environment where it is not possible, nor desirable, to engineer a situation where a particular subset of farms face a different price regime for a given product. Product differentiation is, of course, possible, (e.g. organic production) but that is not necessarily related to farm size.\n\n'Industrial' farming is an emotive term with no particular definition. I recognise that for economic reasons, average farm sizes have been increasing for many generations and that today’s modest family farm would probably seem large and “industrial” to our forebearers. In developing a new agricultural support framework, I am considering the needs of the entire farming sector. It has been a long time since we have been able to shape farm policy to the needs of our farmers and I want to make the most of this new opportunity.","answerHtml":"Farms operate within an open competitive environment where it is not possible, nor desirable, to engineer a situation where a particular subset of farms face a different price regime for a given product. Product differentiation is, of course, possible, (e.g. organic production) but that is not necessarily related to farm size.
'Industrial' farming is an emotive term with no particular definition. I recognise that for economic reasons, average farm sizes have been increasing for many generations and that today’s modest family farm would probably seem large and “industrial” to our forebearers. In developing a new agricultural support framework, I am considering the needs of the entire farming sector. It has been a long time since we have been able to shape farm policy to the needs of our farmers and I want to make the most of this new opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018901%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337946","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337946"}},{"id":"337696","reference":"AQW 18824/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the steps being taken to facilitate Northern Irish lobster and crab fishermen selling to EU markets; and for his assessment of how the effects of (a) Brexit and (b) COVID-19 have impacted on this trade.","answerText":"My Department has engaged closely and routinely with stakeholders throughout the pre- and post-transition period of Brexit in order to keep the Northern Ireland Fishing Industry and Seafood Sector informed.\n\nCommencing in July 2020 and running through to the end of the transition period, a number of external webinars have taken place for the Fishing and Aquaculture sectors. These events kept stakeholders up-to-date on new information, emerging issues that had the potential to affect their business, and requirements post-transition. A specific Inshore Fisheries stakeholder event for the crab and lobster sectors was held on 11 December 2020. This included a number of exporters of crab and lobsters, Producer Organisations and fishermen themselves.\n\nIn addition a number of one to one meetings have taken place with individual businesses in this sector, the purpose of which was to provide information and a greater understanding of the I/NI Protocol, in order to allow them to look at the EU trading route options available to them.\n\nIn terms of an assessment of the impact of Brexit on the sector it has not been reported to us as one of those that has been significantly affected as a result of EU Exit and this is mainly attributed to the fact that the export of both these products has continued, albeit through a direct route to the mainland EU markets via ROI, which has experienced little disruption compared to the problems experienced when exporting from GB to the EU mainland.\n\nThis sector has however been significantly affected by the impact of COVID 19 due to the loss of export markets and the closure of the local hospitality sector. In response, since March 2020, my Department has provided the crab and lobster fleet with £394,000 towards their fixed costs of operation to offset lost market opportunities and reduced prices. I have also encouraged such vessels to apply to the UK-wide Seafood Response Fund that provided financial assistance for the same issues relating to the first three months of 2021.\n\nI am committed to engagement with the industry representative groups on this matter. I am always receptive to considering any proposals that may emerge relating to the shipping of produce to established, or indeed new, export markets for our quality shellfish.","answerHtml":"My Department has engaged closely and routinely with stakeholders throughout the pre- and post-transition period of Brexit in order to keep the Northern Ireland Fishing Industry and Seafood Sector informed.
Commencing in July 2020 and running through to the end of the transition period, a number of external webinars have taken place for the Fishing and Aquaculture sectors. These events kept stakeholders up-to-date on new information, emerging issues that had the potential to affect their business, and requirements post-transition. A specific Inshore Fisheries stakeholder event for the crab and lobster sectors was held on 11 December 2020. This included a number of exporters of crab and lobsters, Producer Organisations and fishermen themselves.
In addition a number of one to one meetings have taken place with individual businesses in this sector, the purpose of which was to provide information and a greater understanding of the I/NI Protocol, in order to allow them to look at the EU trading route options available to them.
In terms of an assessment of the impact of Brexit on the sector it has not been reported to us as one of those that has been significantly affected as a result of EU Exit and this is mainly attributed to the fact that the export of both these products has continued, albeit through a direct route to the mainland EU markets via ROI, which has experienced little disruption compared to the problems experienced when exporting from GB to the EU mainland.
This sector has however been significantly affected by the impact of COVID 19 due to the loss of export markets and the closure of the local hospitality sector. In response, since March 2020, my Department has provided the crab and lobster fleet with £394,000 towards their fixed costs of operation to offset lost market opportunities and reduced prices. I have also encouraged such vessels to apply to the UK-wide Seafood Response Fund that provided financial assistance for the same issues relating to the first three months of 2021.
I am committed to engagement with the industry representative groups on this matter. I am always receptive to considering any proposals that may emerge relating to the shipping of produce to established, or indeed new, export markets for our quality shellfish.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018824%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337696"}},{"id":"337695","reference":"AQW 18823/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of how youth services, including outdoor recreation facilities, youth clubs and other initiatives can be used to keep young people away from crime and antisocial activity.","answerText":"Youth services, delivered by the Education Authority in conjunction with the voluntary and community sectors, support the personal and social development of children and young people. The range of provision includes generic services that assist in limiting the need for early intervention or targeted support, detached/outreach youth work that promotes safety and stability and targeted initiatives aimed at young people who may not avail of traditional youth services or that require additional supports and interventions. All of these are based on assessed need and reflect not only the more generic needs of children and young people but also the specific needs of identified groups, including those at risk of getting involved in antisocial activity and criminality.\n\nSuch targeted initiatives include:\n\nthe START programme that works with young people who have been harmed by paramilitary groups and/or those who are most at risk of becoming involved in paramilitary activity;\n\nSYTES programme and Youth Volunteer Academy that promotes lawfulness and prevents radicalisation of young people in local communities;\n\nRAPID response service that provides diversionary activities and support to the most vulnerable young people aged 14-25 engaged in, or on the fringe of, anti-community and anti-social behaviour in identified flashpoint areas across Northern Ireland;\n\nPlanned Interventions aimed at young people in interface areas and areas where there is the potential of heightened social unrest during the summer period.\n\nTBUC Camps programme to provide opportunities for young people aged 11-19 across Northern Ireland to come together to build positive relationships.\n\nServices are delivered through a range of youth facilities including youth clubs and outdoor learning centres. The latter provide young people with the opportunity to participate in adventure activities that are exciting and engaging and which provide a sense of achievement in a managed environment. They can also create in a positive way, the risk/reward context which young people have stated they associate with anti-community behaviours and crime. Outdoor learning is an integral part of the youth service programme.","answerHtml":"Youth services, delivered by the Education Authority in conjunction with the voluntary and community sectors, support the personal and social development of children and young people. The range of provision includes generic services that assist in limiting the need for early intervention or targeted support, detached/outreach youth work that promotes safety and stability and targeted initiatives aimed at young people who may not avail of traditional youth services or that require additional supports and interventions. All of these are based on assessed need and reflect not only the more generic needs of children and young people but also the specific needs of identified groups, including those at risk of getting involved in antisocial activity and criminality.
Such targeted initiatives include:
the START programme that works with young people who have been harmed by paramilitary groups and/or those who are most at risk of becoming involved in paramilitary activity;
SYTES programme and Youth Volunteer Academy that promotes lawfulness and prevents radicalisation of young people in local communities;
RAPID response service that provides diversionary activities and support to the most vulnerable young people aged 14-25 engaged in, or on the fringe of, anti-community and anti-social behaviour in identified flashpoint areas across Northern Ireland;
Planned Interventions aimed at young people in interface areas and areas where there is the potential of heightened social unrest during the summer period.
TBUC Camps programme to provide opportunities for young people aged 11-19 across Northern Ireland to come together to build positive relationships.
Services are delivered through a range of youth facilities including youth clubs and outdoor learning centres. The latter provide young people with the opportunity to participate in adventure activities that are exciting and engaging and which provide a sense of achievement in a managed environment. They can also create in a positive way, the risk/reward context which young people have stated they associate with anti-community behaviours and crime. Outdoor learning is an integral part of the youth service programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018823%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337695","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337695"}},{"id":"337694","reference":"AQW 18822/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the ways in which he is working with communities and individuals in order to engage young people in youth services.","answerText":"The provision of youth services is an operational matter for the Education Authority (EA) and is based on the assessed needs of children and young people at regional and local level. In line with my Department’s youth policy ‘Priorities for Youth – Improving Youth People’s Lives through Youth Work’, inclusion, participation and collaborative working are central to their approach.\n\nThe EA consults directly with children and young people, their parents/guardians and other key community stakeholders in identifying need and in the design and development of responsive services. (The current three year Regional Assessment of Needs (RAoN) and Local Assessments of Need can be accessed via the EA’s website through the following links – https://eanifunding.org.uk/home/publications-and-resources/regional-assessment-of-need/ and https://eanifunding.org.uk/local-assessment-of-need/ ).\n\nYouth service staff also work in partnership with a range of bodies to increase the appeal of youth services to a greater number of children and young people, promote youth services within local communities and provide advice, guidance and support on ways to engage with, and advocate for, children and young people. This includes the Regional Advisory Group (a partnership with my Department and regional voluntary youth groups), Local Advisory Groups (which include council, police, education, young people and other community and voluntary representatives), Civic Forums, Policing Community Safety Partnerships, Vulnerable People Hubs and Neighbourhood Renewal Area fora.\n\nIn addition the EA’s New Funding Scheme has enabled funding to be delivered to a range of local and regional voluntary groups to engage with and introduce children and young people to youth services, including in areas where they may not previously have been available.","answerHtml":"The provision of youth services is an operational matter for the Education Authority (EA) and is based on the assessed needs of children and young people at regional and local level. In line with my Department’s youth policy ‘Priorities for Youth – Improving Youth People’s Lives through Youth Work’, inclusion, participation and collaborative working are central to their approach.
The EA consults directly with children and young people, their parents/guardians and other key community stakeholders in identifying need and in the design and development of responsive services. (The current three year Regional Assessment of Needs (RAoN) and Local Assessments of Need can be accessed via the EA’s website through the following links – https://eanifunding.org.uk/home/publications-and-resources/regional-assessment-of-need/ and https://eanifunding.org.uk/local-assessment-of-need/ ).
Youth service staff also work in partnership with a range of bodies to increase the appeal of youth services to a greater number of children and young people, promote youth services within local communities and provide advice, guidance and support on ways to engage with, and advocate for, children and young people. This includes the Regional Advisory Group (a partnership with my Department and regional voluntary youth groups), Local Advisory Groups (which include council, police, education, young people and other community and voluntary representatives), Civic Forums, Policing Community Safety Partnerships, Vulnerable People Hubs and Neighbourhood Renewal Area fora.
In addition the EA’s New Funding Scheme has enabled funding to be delivered to a range of local and regional voluntary groups to engage with and introduce children and young people to youth services, including in areas where they may not previously have been available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018822%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337694","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337694"}},{"id":"337692","reference":"AQW 18820/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-13","answerBy":"2021-05-28","answered":"2021-09-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health given the reduced services being offered by dentists, to detail the alternative facilities currently open to carry out early oral cancer screening.","answerText":"At this time there are no plans make dental check-ups free of charge as there is no conclusive evidence that charges are a barrier to people attending dental check-ups.\n\nApproximately 63% of the Northern Ireland population are registered with a General Dental Practitioner (GDP) and approximately 50% of patients receiving General Dental Service (GDS) care are exempt from patient charges. There is a strong relationship between not being registered and living in areas of deprivation, therefore many of those who are not registered are likely to be entitled to free dental treatment but nevertheless do not attend.\n\nSimilarly, there is no strong research evidence illustrating that free dental check-ups would improve the likelihood of diagnosing more cases of oral cancer. Most patients who are ultimately diagnosed with an oral cancer in Northern Ireland are not referred to hospital by general dental practitioners.\n\nThe primary driver to improve the number of patients who are diagnosed early as opposed to late with oral cancer would be that survival chances are significantly increased as is quality of life post-treatment. It also follows that the overall cost of treatment is lower with earlier diagnosis, however I am not aware of any research into the effects of free dental check-ups on earlier diagnosis of oral cancer.\n\nWhile GDPs will screen patients for oral cancer as part of an overall dental examination (opportunistic screening), independent researchers and the UK National Screening Committee have found that an oral cancer population screening programme would not be a cost-effective use of Health Service resources. This is because of the difficulty of detecting the condition at an early stage and because of the likely low screening uptake rates among those individuals who are at the highest risk of developing the condition. Therefore, at this moment in time, there are no plans to establish oral cancer screening arrangements over and above those already provided opportunistically by GDPs.","answerHtml":"At this time there are no plans make dental check-ups free of charge as there is no conclusive evidence that charges are a barrier to people attending dental check-ups.
Approximately 63% of the Northern Ireland population are registered with a General Dental Practitioner (GDP) and approximately 50% of patients receiving General Dental Service (GDS) care are exempt from patient charges. There is a strong relationship between not being registered and living in areas of deprivation, therefore many of those who are not registered are likely to be entitled to free dental treatment but nevertheless do not attend.
Similarly, there is no strong research evidence illustrating that free dental check-ups would improve the likelihood of diagnosing more cases of oral cancer. Most patients who are ultimately diagnosed with an oral cancer in Northern Ireland are not referred to hospital by general dental practitioners.
The primary driver to improve the number of patients who are diagnosed early as opposed to late with oral cancer would be that survival chances are significantly increased as is quality of life post-treatment. It also follows that the overall cost of treatment is lower with earlier diagnosis, however I am not aware of any research into the effects of free dental check-ups on earlier diagnosis of oral cancer.
While GDPs will screen patients for oral cancer as part of an overall dental examination (opportunistic screening), independent researchers and the UK National Screening Committee have found that an oral cancer population screening programme would not be a cost-effective use of Health Service resources. This is because of the difficulty of detecting the condition at an early stage and because of the likely low screening uptake rates among those individuals who are at the highest risk of developing the condition. Therefore, at this moment in time, there are no plans to establish oral cancer screening arrangements over and above those already provided opportunistically by GDPs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018820%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337692","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337692"}},{"id":"337329","reference":"AQW 18689/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-11","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the latest regulations regarding the permitted size of wedding receptions; (ii) the dates and details of anticipated changes to these rules, including outdoor receptions; and (iii) any risk assessments that will be required prior to hosting wedding receptions.","answerText":"Weddings and civil partnerships are celebratory social events, which are particularly prone to the spread of COVID-19 and restrictions are therefore necessary to reduce the risk of transmission.\n\nThe arrangements for weddings are as set out in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021, available at:\n\nThe Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)\n\nA frequently asked question document is available on the Executive's website: Guidance for marriages, civil partnerships or other celebratory events\n\nGuidance for places of worship is also available at: Coronavirus (COVID-19): places of worship\n\nFrom 24 May 2021, post wedding and civil partnership receptions are permitted, with the numbers determined by the venue on a risk assessed basis. To determine the maximum number of people permitted to attend an indoor gathering, in a non-domestic setting, the organiser or operator must carry out a risk assessment. Indoor gatherings of 15 people or fewer do not need a risk assessment.\n\nA person responsible for organising a gathering must, if requested to do so by a relevant person, provide a copy of the risk assessment and an account of the reasonable measures taken. The organiser must also take all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus.\n\nThere are no restrictions on the number of people seated at the top table, but other tables should not exceed 10, with no household restriction. Children under 12 excluded are not counted for the table numbers. No dancing is permitted, except for the couple’s first dance. Music must be at ambient level to permit normal conversation.","answerHtml":"Weddings and civil partnerships are celebratory social events, which are particularly prone to the spread of COVID-19 and restrictions are therefore necessary to reduce the risk of transmission.
The arrangements for weddings are as set out in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021, available at:
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)
A frequently asked question document is available on the Executive's website: Guidance for marriages, civil partnerships or other celebratory events
Guidance for places of worship is also available at: Coronavirus (COVID-19): places of worship
From 24 May 2021, post wedding and civil partnership receptions are permitted, with the numbers determined by the venue on a risk assessed basis. To determine the maximum number of people permitted to attend an indoor gathering, in a non-domestic setting, the organiser or operator must carry out a risk assessment. Indoor gatherings of 15 people or fewer do not need a risk assessment.
A person responsible for organising a gathering must, if requested to do so by a relevant person, provide a copy of the risk assessment and an account of the reasonable measures taken. The organiser must also take all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus.
There are no restrictions on the number of people seated at the top table, but other tables should not exceed 10, with no household restriction. Children under 12 excluded are not counted for the table numbers. No dancing is permitted, except for the couple’s first dance. Music must be at ambient level to permit normal conversation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018689%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337329"}},{"id":"337328","reference":"AQW 18688/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-11","answerBy":"2021-05-26","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether her Department or local councils would be responsible for authorising the redevelopment of the Barry’s Amusements in Portrush into residential or tourist accommodation.","answerText":"Under the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 planning applications for development are categorised in accordance with the hierarchy of development and as laid out in the Schedule to the regulations.\n\nA potential planning application for the re-development of Barry’s Amusements in Portrush into residential or tourist accommodation would be categorised in accordance with the hierarchy of development as local or major development, depending upon the threshold or criteria met, and in either case would be the responsibility of the relevant council to process and determine. In this instance this would be Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, as the local planning authority for the area.","answerHtml":"Under the Planning (Development Management) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 planning applications for development are categorised in accordance with the hierarchy of development and as laid out in the Schedule to the regulations.
A potential planning application for the re-development of Barry’s Amusements in Portrush into residential or tourist accommodation would be categorised in accordance with the hierarchy of development as local or major development, depending upon the threshold or criteria met, and in either case would be the responsibility of the relevant council to process and determine. In this instance this would be Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, as the local planning authority for the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018688%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337328"}},{"id":"337327","reference":"AQW 18687/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-11","answerBy":"2021-05-26","answered":"2021-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the current and planned employment initiatives her Department is engaged with East Londonderry; and (ii) the number of employment or training places that will be created as a result.","answerText":"My Department invests significantly right across Northern Ireland, in what could be regarded as training and upskilling.\n\nEmployers create apprenticeship opportunities in line with their business needs. My Department’s ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes provide funded apprenticeship training at levels 2 to 7 across a range of occupational areas. Apprentices are employed and paid directly by employers, and training is delivered through Northern Ireland based colleges, universities and non-statutory contractors, several of which are located in the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nIn addition, the Apprenticeship Return, Retain, Result and Recruit schemes are in place to incentivise employers to return apprentices from furlough and recruit new apprentices, including those previously made redundant. To date a total of £127,668 has been paid to employers in East Londonderry under both schemes, which has helped return 43 apprentices from furlough and create 38 new apprenticeship opportunities.\n\nThe amendment to the current age-eligibility criteria by the end of this year for apprenticeships under the ApprenticeshipsNI programme will also create new opportunities for those aged 25 and over in East Londonderry and across Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department is introducing reforms to the vocational education landscape this September with Skill for Life and Work and the NI Traineeship. This new provision will help to ensure there is a well understood progression pathway that meets the needs of participants, the labour market and the wider economy.\n\nSkills for Life and Work is a vocational education programme for young people aged 16–17 years (with extended age eligibility for those with a disability or from an in-care background) who require training primarily at Entry Level and Level 1. The first participants will commence on programme in September 2021.\n\nThe training will be primarily aimed at young people aged 16-17, with extended age criteria for some groups. It aims to deliver a portfolio of personal development, employability and essential skills alongside professional and technical training.\n\nThe NI Traineeship is the new full-time Level 2 vocational education and training provision that will provide participants with the opportunity to achieve a full level 2 outcome. Developed in partnership with employers, the Traineeship will provide participants with the skills and qualifications necessary to secure employment in their chosen occupation. The Traineeship combines vocational training, structured work placement and numeracy & literacy qualifications to support an individual’s progression onto a Level 3 Apprenticeship, other Further Education qualifications or into employment. The programme will be delivered by Further Education Colleges throughout Northern Ireland, including those in the East Londonderry constituency and will be open to all age groups. When fully operational Traineeships will be available across more than 30 occupational areas.\n\nThe ESF programme Priority Axis 1 & 2 is designed to fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular, for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market who are unemployed, including long term unemployed or economically inactive. In Call 2 of the 2014 – 20 NI ESF programme 4 Projects located with the East Londonderry consistency were approved funding for the period April 2018 – March 2022.\n\nEnterprise NI Ltd (ENI) and Roe Valley Community Education Forum (RVCEF) Ltd were approved funding under the unemployed and economically inactive strand for projects with 4 year total eligible costs of £2.9m. At the end of year 3 these 2 projects have enrolled 61% (1467 participants) against a 4 year targets of 2396. At the end of year 3 they have achieved into employment rates of 39% against a target of 19% and into education rates of 22%against a target of 10%.\n\nLimavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI) and Rapid were approved funding under the disability strand for projects with 4 year eligibility costs of £1.5m. At the end of year 3 these 2 projects have enrolled 81% (219 participants) against a 4 year target of 272 At the end of Year 3 they have achieved their into employment rate of 9% and have achieved an into education rate of 25% against a target of 18%. These results were achieved despite the COVID restrictions of Year 3.\n\nThe Assured Skills programme is a demand-led, pre-employment training programme which helps individuals gain the skills they need to compete for guaranteed job vacancies with new Foreign Direct Investment companies and expanding local based businesses.\n\nIn the North West, through the Assured Skills Academy model, the programme has supported both FinTrU and Alchemy Technology Services Ltd, delivering industry-focused training that helps equip participants with the skills demanded by growing companies.\n\nTo date 13 academies have been completed for these employers in the North West, resulting in the upskilling of 243 people for financial and technology roles. 229 of those participants secured employment with the two companies.\n\nA new Financial Services Academy is ongoing with 19 people currently in training, and a Technology Services Academy has recently launched with 20 further positions available.\n\nOver the course of this financial year Assured Skills hopes to support at least another 3 academies for FinTrU and Alchemy in the North West.\n\nAssured Skills has also funded 2 collaborative Welding Academies, partnering with NWRC, which has resulted in 25 people being upskilled, and 24 of those being employed as welders.\n\nMy Department is working closely with NWRC to develop a series of additional Collaborative Welding Academies that are expected to be delivered before March 2022. This highlights my commitment to ensuring that my Department responds positively to the needs of the manufacturing sector given the pivotal role it will play in the recovery of the economy.\n\nIn 2020/2021, the Skills Intervention Programme delivered upskilling courses for individuals whose employment status was impacted by the pandemic. Further Education Colleges and local Universities (including UU & NWRC) provided a range of online courses to facilitate the programme engaging with individuals across Northern Ireland including East Londonderry.\n\nIn 2021, as part of the Executive’s Economic Recovery Action Plan, a Flexible Skills Fund has been established to help upskill and reskill individuals to meet the needs of the economy as we emerge from the pandemic and continue to grow the Economy beyond it. This three-year programme, with funding provided from the Department of Finance and the Northern Ireland Office, will build on the work of the Skills Interventions Programme. This programme will be encouraging engagement of participants right across all regions within Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Flexible Skills Fund will be utilised to support a range of educational opportunities from entry level to Level 7 qualifications. Initial delivery of the Flexible Skills Fund will be provided by the further and higher education sectors. Courses will be linked directly to the priority areas for economic growth. Courses will enable longer term employment opportunities for individuals across all regions of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department invests significantly right across Northern Ireland, in what could be regarded as training and upskilling.
Employers create apprenticeship opportunities in line with their business needs. My Department’s ApprenticeshipsNI and Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes provide funded apprenticeship training at levels 2 to 7 across a range of occupational areas. Apprentices are employed and paid directly by employers, and training is delivered through Northern Ireland based colleges, universities and non-statutory contractors, several of which are located in the East Londonderry constituency.
In addition, the Apprenticeship Return, Retain, Result and Recruit schemes are in place to incentivise employers to return apprentices from furlough and recruit new apprentices, including those previously made redundant. To date a total of £127,668 has been paid to employers in East Londonderry under both schemes, which has helped return 43 apprentices from furlough and create 38 new apprenticeship opportunities.
The amendment to the current age-eligibility criteria by the end of this year for apprenticeships under the ApprenticeshipsNI programme will also create new opportunities for those aged 25 and over in East Londonderry and across Northern Ireland.
My Department is introducing reforms to the vocational education landscape this September with Skill for Life and Work and the NI Traineeship. This new provision will help to ensure there is a well understood progression pathway that meets the needs of participants, the labour market and the wider economy.
Skills for Life and Work is a vocational education programme for young people aged 16–17 years (with extended age eligibility for those with a disability or from an in-care background) who require training primarily at Entry Level and Level 1. The first participants will commence on programme in September 2021.
The training will be primarily aimed at young people aged 16-17, with extended age criteria for some groups. It aims to deliver a portfolio of personal development, employability and essential skills alongside professional and technical training.
The NI Traineeship is the new full-time Level 2 vocational education and training provision that will provide participants with the opportunity to achieve a full level 2 outcome. Developed in partnership with employers, the Traineeship will provide participants with the skills and qualifications necessary to secure employment in their chosen occupation. The Traineeship combines vocational training, structured work placement and numeracy & literacy qualifications to support an individual’s progression onto a Level 3 Apprenticeship, other Further Education qualifications or into employment. The programme will be delivered by Further Education Colleges throughout Northern Ireland, including those in the East Londonderry constituency and will be open to all age groups. When fully operational Traineeships will be available across more than 30 occupational areas.
The ESF programme Priority Axis 1 & 2 is designed to fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular, for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market who are unemployed, including long term unemployed or economically inactive. In Call 2 of the 2014 – 20 NI ESF programme 4 Projects located with the East Londonderry consistency were approved funding for the period April 2018 – March 2022.
Enterprise NI Ltd (ENI) and Roe Valley Community Education Forum (RVCEF) Ltd were approved funding under the unemployed and economically inactive strand for projects with 4 year total eligible costs of £2.9m. At the end of year 3 these 2 projects have enrolled 61% (1467 participants) against a 4 year targets of 2396. At the end of year 3 they have achieved into employment rates of 39% against a target of 19% and into education rates of 22%against a target of 10%.
Limavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI) and Rapid were approved funding under the disability strand for projects with 4 year eligibility costs of £1.5m. At the end of year 3 these 2 projects have enrolled 81% (219 participants) against a 4 year target of 272 At the end of Year 3 they have achieved their into employment rate of 9% and have achieved an into education rate of 25% against a target of 18%. These results were achieved despite the COVID restrictions of Year 3.
The Assured Skills programme is a demand-led, pre-employment training programme which helps individuals gain the skills they need to compete for guaranteed job vacancies with new Foreign Direct Investment companies and expanding local based businesses.
In the North West, through the Assured Skills Academy model, the programme has supported both FinTrU and Alchemy Technology Services Ltd, delivering industry-focused training that helps equip participants with the skills demanded by growing companies.
To date 13 academies have been completed for these employers in the North West, resulting in the upskilling of 243 people for financial and technology roles. 229 of those participants secured employment with the two companies.
A new Financial Services Academy is ongoing with 19 people currently in training, and a Technology Services Academy has recently launched with 20 further positions available.
Over the course of this financial year Assured Skills hopes to support at least another 3 academies for FinTrU and Alchemy in the North West.
Assured Skills has also funded 2 collaborative Welding Academies, partnering with NWRC, which has resulted in 25 people being upskilled, and 24 of those being employed as welders.
My Department is working closely with NWRC to develop a series of additional Collaborative Welding Academies that are expected to be delivered before March 2022. This highlights my commitment to ensuring that my Department responds positively to the needs of the manufacturing sector given the pivotal role it will play in the recovery of the economy.
In 2020/2021, the Skills Intervention Programme delivered upskilling courses for individuals whose employment status was impacted by the pandemic. Further Education Colleges and local Universities (including UU & NWRC) provided a range of online courses to facilitate the programme engaging with individuals across Northern Ireland including East Londonderry.
In 2021, as part of the Executive’s Economic Recovery Action Plan, a Flexible Skills Fund has been established to help upskill and reskill individuals to meet the needs of the economy as we emerge from the pandemic and continue to grow the Economy beyond it. This three-year programme, with funding provided from the Department of Finance and the Northern Ireland Office, will build on the work of the Skills Interventions Programme. This programme will be encouraging engagement of participants right across all regions within Northern Ireland.
The Flexible Skills Fund will be utilised to support a range of educational opportunities from entry level to Level 7 qualifications. Initial delivery of the Flexible Skills Fund will be provided by the further and higher education sectors. Courses will be linked directly to the priority areas for economic growth. Courses will enable longer term employment opportunities for individuals across all regions of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018687%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337327","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337327"}},{"id":"337326","reference":"AQW 18686/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-11","answerBy":"2021-05-26","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his plans to provide free school meals for all pupils; (ii) the yearly cost for such a scheme; and (iii) the conversations he has had with unions and relevant stakeholders regarding the benefits of free school meals for all pupils.","answerText":"(i) Free school meals are currently provided to ensure pupils of “non-working” and low income families have access to a nutritionally balanced meal suitable as the main meal of the day. The eligibility criteria are largely based on receipt of qualifying welfare benefits. Whilst there are no plans to provide free school meals for all children, I have recently agreed to a review of the free school meal and uniform grant eligibility criteria with a view to implementation of any recommendations in future years subject to available resources. The purpose of the review is to ensure that free school meals and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society. The option to provide universal free school meals to all or certain year groups of pupils will be considered as part of the review.\n\n(ii) All viable options will be costed as part of the review. It is however clear that as 28.4% of pupils currently are entitled to free school meals, the cost of providing free meals to all pupils would represent a significant increase in the funding required. Increased demand is likely to result also in capital costs to extend the capacity in school meals accommodation.\n\n(iii) In developing options and making recommendations for the review of free school meals and uniform grants, the review team will consult widely with relevant stakeholders including trade unions.","answerHtml":"(i) Free school meals are currently provided to ensure pupils of “non-working” and low income families have access to a nutritionally balanced meal suitable as the main meal of the day. The eligibility criteria are largely based on receipt of qualifying welfare benefits. Whilst there are no plans to provide free school meals for all children, I have recently agreed to a review of the free school meal and uniform grant eligibility criteria with a view to implementation of any recommendations in future years subject to available resources. The purpose of the review is to ensure that free school meals and uniform grants are available to support the most vulnerable children in our society. The option to provide universal free school meals to all or certain year groups of pupils will be considered as part of the review.
(ii) All viable options will be costed as part of the review. It is however clear that as 28.4% of pupils currently are entitled to free school meals, the cost of providing free meals to all pupils would represent a significant increase in the funding required. Increased demand is likely to result also in capital costs to extend the capacity in school meals accommodation.
(iii) In developing options and making recommendations for the review of free school meals and uniform grants, the review team will consult widely with relevant stakeholders including trade unions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018686%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337326"}},{"id":"337325","reference":"AQW 18685/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-11","answerBy":"2021-05-26","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the budget available for the JobStart scheme and the number of employment opportunities that will be created as a result of the scheme.","answerText":"I would refer to AQW16626/17-22 which sets out the details requested.","answerHtml":"I would refer to AQW16626/17-22 which sets out the details requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018685%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=337325","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=337325"}},{"id":"336945","reference":"AQW 18550/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-07","answerBy":"2021-05-12","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether the £500 special recognition payment for Health and Social Care Staff is considered income; (ii) what tax and National Insurance deductions will be applicable as a result; (iii) how the payment will affect any income-related benefits of the recipient; and (iv) what the rules are for similar schemes in England and Wales relating to the same issues.","answerText":"Yes, the £500 special recognition payment for Health and Social Care Staff is considered income.\n\nThe payment will be subject to the tax and NI rates appropriate to the individual.\n\nAs this is classed as income derived from employment, those in receipt of certain income assessed benefits may see their benefits reduced or paused, but will be better off overall. To mitigate the impact on benefits, HSC Trusts will be offering any individual concerned with the option of receiving their award in instalments.\n\nThe NHS in England has not implemented a Recognition award, NHS Wales has adopted the same principles as here, with staff being afforded an option to receive payment by instalments. Subject to formal approval from the Department of Finance, the payment to be made will be up to £735 per individual, meaning that those who pay tax at 20%, and National Insurance at 12%, will receive up to £500 after tax and National Insurance deductions","answerHtml":"Yes, the £500 special recognition payment for Health and Social Care Staff is considered income.
The payment will be subject to the tax and NI rates appropriate to the individual.
As this is classed as income derived from employment, those in receipt of certain income assessed benefits may see their benefits reduced or paused, but will be better off overall. To mitigate the impact on benefits, HSC Trusts will be offering any individual concerned with the option of receiving their award in instalments.
The NHS in England has not implemented a Recognition award, NHS Wales has adopted the same principles as here, with staff being afforded an option to receive payment by instalments. Subject to formal approval from the Department of Finance, the payment to be made will be up to £735 per individual, meaning that those who pay tax at 20%, and National Insurance at 12%, will receive up to £500 after tax and National Insurance deductions
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018550%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336945"}},{"id":"336944","reference":"AQW 18549/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-07","answerBy":"2021-05-24","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the increase in the number of out-of-hours hospital appointments created in the past year in order to deal with waiting lists; and (ii) any funding bids he has made to the Executive and Westminster in order to fund the tackling of growing waiting lists.","answerText":"It is normal practice for the HSC to schedule additional clinics out of hours to help address hospital waiting times for assessment. While the Covid-19 pandemic reduced the level of additional capacity which could be provided, there were still 8,982 outpatients seen out of hours during 2020/21.\n\nMy Department’s only option to secure additional funding is through the Department of Finance (DoF) led Budget exercises which determines the budget allocations for NI Departments and are agreed by the Executive.\n\nAs part of the 2021/22 Budget Exercise, my Department in acknowledging the additional pressures placed on waiting lists which has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic made a bid of £30.3m to DoF in respect of Elective Services.\n\nWhile this bid for additional funding was not met specifically my Department did receive Covid Rebuild funding of which I intend to use some £40m to fund Waiting List Initiatives and other Elective developments including orthopaedics.","answerHtml":"It is normal practice for the HSC to schedule additional clinics out of hours to help address hospital waiting times for assessment. While the Covid-19 pandemic reduced the level of additional capacity which could be provided, there were still 8,982 outpatients seen out of hours during 2020/21.
My Department’s only option to secure additional funding is through the Department of Finance (DoF) led Budget exercises which determines the budget allocations for NI Departments and are agreed by the Executive.
As part of the 2021/22 Budget Exercise, my Department in acknowledging the additional pressures placed on waiting lists which has been exacerbated by the Covid-19 pandemic made a bid of £30.3m to DoF in respect of Elective Services.
While this bid for additional funding was not met specifically my Department did receive Covid Rebuild funding of which I intend to use some £40m to fund Waiting List Initiatives and other Elective developments including orthopaedics.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018549%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336944"}},{"id":"336943","reference":"AQW 18548/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-07","answerBy":"2021-05-24","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether NHS patients from Northern Ireland are still able to access surgery and other medical procedures, with the cost covered by the Health and Social Care Board, in (a) other jurisdictions of the UK; (b) the Republic of Ireland; (c) the EU; and (d) private clinics; and (ii) what impact Brexit has had on these arrangements.","answerText":"(i) There are a number of different ways in which patients can access healthcare outside of Northern Ireland with the cost covered by the Health and Social Care Board.\n\nTransfer as part of a waiting list initiative\n\nThis can occur where, as part of a drive to reduce waiting times, a provider from outside Northern Ireland is chosen to deliver additional capacity for patients waiting for HSC assessment or treatment. Such providers are normally based in the rest of the UK or in the Republic of Ireland.\n\nContractual arrangements/service level agreements/MoUs\n\nA number of service level agreements are in place between Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland and providers outside Northern Ireland to secure dedicated capacity for referrals for highly specialist services which are not suitable to be provided in Northern Ireland and for which there is a sufficient, predictable annual volume of activity\n\nThere are also a number of MoUs which facilitate cross border and all Ireland healthcare such as between ambulance services and the radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin Hospital.\n\nExtra Contractual Referrals\n\nThe Health and Social Care Board in Northern Ireland may authorise patient travel for specialist treatment which it does not routinely commission.\n\nThis may be either because the treatment needed is of a specialist nature which is not available in Northern Ireland or because there is a clinical reason why the local service is not appropriate. The provider is chosen by the local consultant using his clinical judgement. The Health and Social Care Board expects these requests to be to NHS providers in the UK but will consider requests to EU countries including the Republic of Ireland where there is clear clinical rationale for doing so.\n\nPrivate clinics\n\nManagement of waiting lists is one of the mechanisms by which the health service upholds the principle of equity of access to health and social care services free at the point of care. Where a patient chooses to pay for private treatment at the time of their choosing, doing so takes them outside the Northern Ireland HSC system’s arrangements and its principles. It would be inequitable for the Health and Social Care Board to fund individuals for private treatment so that they could access care in advance of others on the waiting list who may have greater clinical need. Accordingly, the Health and Social care Board would not cover the costs incurred.\n\n(ii) The UK’s exit from the EU has no impact on these arrangements.","answerHtml":"(i) There are a number of different ways in which patients can access healthcare outside of Northern Ireland with the cost covered by the Health and Social Care Board.
Transfer as part of a waiting list initiative
This can occur where, as part of a drive to reduce waiting times, a provider from outside Northern Ireland is chosen to deliver additional capacity for patients waiting for HSC assessment or treatment. Such providers are normally based in the rest of the UK or in the Republic of Ireland.
Contractual arrangements/service level agreements/MoUs
A number of service level agreements are in place between Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland and providers outside Northern Ireland to secure dedicated capacity for referrals for highly specialist services which are not suitable to be provided in Northern Ireland and for which there is a sufficient, predictable annual volume of activity
There are also a number of MoUs which facilitate cross border and all Ireland healthcare such as between ambulance services and the radiotherapy unit at Altnagelvin Hospital.
Extra Contractual Referrals
The Health and Social Care Board in Northern Ireland may authorise patient travel for specialist treatment which it does not routinely commission.
This may be either because the treatment needed is of a specialist nature which is not available in Northern Ireland or because there is a clinical reason why the local service is not appropriate. The provider is chosen by the local consultant using his clinical judgement. The Health and Social Care Board expects these requests to be to NHS providers in the UK but will consider requests to EU countries including the Republic of Ireland where there is clear clinical rationale for doing so.
Private clinics
Management of waiting lists is one of the mechanisms by which the health service upholds the principle of equity of access to health and social care services free at the point of care. Where a patient chooses to pay for private treatment at the time of their choosing, doing so takes them outside the Northern Ireland HSC system’s arrangements and its principles. It would be inequitable for the Health and Social Care Board to fund individuals for private treatment so that they could access care in advance of others on the waiting list who may have greater clinical need. Accordingly, the Health and Social care Board would not cover the costs incurred.
(ii) The UK’s exit from the EU has no impact on these arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018548%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336943"}},{"id":"336942","reference":"AQW 18547/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-07","answerBy":"2021-05-24","answered":"2022-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health why Health and Social Care Trusts are contacting patients inquiring if they still require their hospital appointment.","answerText":"The requirement to undertake regular waiting list validation is detailed in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP). The IEAP defines the roles and responsibilities of all those involved in the elective pathway, sets out how data should be recorded and outlines good practice in the effective management of outpatient, diagnostic and inpatient waiting lists. This good practice includes a continuous process of data validation to ensure data accuracy at all times. Undertaking this validation process helps reduce the number of outpatient appointments which are lost due to patient DNAs (did not attends) or CANCs (cancellations).","answerHtml":"The requirement to undertake regular waiting list validation is detailed in the Integrated Elective Access Protocol (IEAP). The IEAP defines the roles and responsibilities of all those involved in the elective pathway, sets out how data should be recorded and outlines good practice in the effective management of outpatient, diagnostic and inpatient waiting lists. This good practice includes a continuous process of data validation to ensure data accuracy at all times. Undertaking this validation process helps reduce the number of outpatient appointments which are lost due to patient DNAs (did not attends) or CANCs (cancellations).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018547%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336942"}},{"id":"336941","reference":"AQW 18546/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-07","answerBy":"2021-05-24","answered":"2021-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) to detail the current budget for upgrading the Limavady sewer network; and (ii) as a result, what works will be carried out in the next financial year.","answerText":"(i) In terms of the budget for upgrading the Limavady sewer network, NI Water has advised me the budget required for upgrading the Limavady sewer network, contained within NI Water's £2 billion business plan for the period 2021 to 2027 (PC21), is ca£5 million. Funding of the PC21 Final Determination, which was published on 13 May 2021, is subject to the appropriate funding being made available to my Department and NI Water by the NI Executive.\n\n(ii) NI Water initiated early survey work in March 2021, which is scheduled for completion during the 2021 school summer holiday period. The Limavady sewer catchment model will then be updated, and provided to NIEA for their assessment and development of a Statement of Need. Following this, NI Water will develop detailed designs to address NIEA’s Statement of Need requirements, with a view to construction commencing by 2023.","answerHtml":"(i) In terms of the budget for upgrading the Limavady sewer network, NI Water has advised me the budget required for upgrading the Limavady sewer network, contained within NI Water's £2 billion business plan for the period 2021 to 2027 (PC21), is ca£5 million. Funding of the PC21 Final Determination, which was published on 13 May 2021, is subject to the appropriate funding being made available to my Department and NI Water by the NI Executive.
(ii) NI Water initiated early survey work in March 2021, which is scheduled for completion during the 2021 school summer holiday period. The Limavady sewer catchment model will then be updated, and provided to NIEA for their assessment and development of a Statement of Need. Following this, NI Water will develop detailed designs to address NIEA’s Statement of Need requirements, with a view to construction commencing by 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018546%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336941"}},{"id":"336753","reference":"AQW 18490/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-06","answerBy":"2021-05-21","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of domestic abuse incidents and crimes, reported per constituency, in each of the past five years.","answerText":"The Department does not hold the information requested. The recording of information on offences related to domestic abuse which have been reported to the police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold the information requested. The recording of information on offences related to domestic abuse which have been reported to the police is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018490%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336753"}},{"id":"336752","reference":"AQW 18489/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-06","answerBy":"2021-05-21","answered":"2021-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, in a case where an applicant can show their Net Annual Value is close to £15,001 and that they can demonstrate they are a medium manufacturing business in terms of turnover and other measures, to detail the discretion he has on the authorisation of the £25,000 Manufacturing (Industrial Derating) Support Grant.","answerText":"Land & Property Services (LPS) must administer the Manufacturing (Industrial Derating) Support Grant support in accordance with the Regulations which give the Department the legal authority to make the grants. Those regulations do not give the Department any power to apply discretion on the eligibility criteria.\n\nThe Manufacturing (Industrial Derating) Support Grant provides support to businesses that occupied commercial premises with a Net Annual Value (NAV) between £15,001 and £51,000 who benefit from industrial derating as at 1 March 2021, subject to scheme eligibility and in line with the associated Regulations. If the business’s NAV is under £15,001 they are not eligible for the scheme as the NAV falls below the threshold.\n\nLPS would also consider applications for this support grant from businesses that applied to have their NAV reassessed before the 1 March 2021. If a business made an application to LPS to have their NAV reassessed before 1 March 2021, they can contact LPS using the online form at Coronavirus: Large NAV Business Grant (nibusinessinfo.co.uk) and they will be advised of the next step. If a business has not applied to have their NAV reassessed before the 1 March 2021 there is no facility to request a review for the purpose of accessing this grant.","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services (LPS) must administer the Manufacturing (Industrial Derating) Support Grant support in accordance with the Regulations which give the Department the legal authority to make the grants. Those regulations do not give the Department any power to apply discretion on the eligibility criteria.
The Manufacturing (Industrial Derating) Support Grant provides support to businesses that occupied commercial premises with a Net Annual Value (NAV) between £15,001 and £51,000 who benefit from industrial derating as at 1 March 2021, subject to scheme eligibility and in line with the associated Regulations. If the business’s NAV is under £15,001 they are not eligible for the scheme as the NAV falls below the threshold.
LPS would also consider applications for this support grant from businesses that applied to have their NAV reassessed before the 1 March 2021. If a business made an application to LPS to have their NAV reassessed before 1 March 2021, they can contact LPS using the online form at Coronavirus: Large NAV Business Grant (nibusinessinfo.co.uk) and they will be advised of the next step. If a business has not applied to have their NAV reassessed before the 1 March 2021 there is no facility to request a review for the purpose of accessing this grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018489%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336752"}},{"id":"336751","reference":"AQW 18488/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-06","answerBy":"2021-05-21","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the estimated number of unpaid carers; (ii) the number of unpaid carers that would qualify for carers’ allowance; (iii) the estimated savings from the work of unpaid carers; and (iv) a breakdown of the ages of those people cared for by unpaid carers.","answerText":"The 2011 Census showed that there were 213,863 people who indicated that they provided some level of unpaid care in Northern Ireland. We do not hold any data on the current numbers of people providing unpaid care;\n\nCarer’s Allowance is administered and overseen by the Department of Communities;\n\nWhile UK-wide estimates of between £57 billion and £100 billion have been produced no independent NI research has been commissioned to account for local factors; and\n\nThis information is not available.","answerHtml":"The 2011 Census showed that there were 213,863 people who indicated that they provided some level of unpaid care in Northern Ireland. We do not hold any data on the current numbers of people providing unpaid care;
Carer’s Allowance is administered and overseen by the Department of Communities;
While UK-wide estimates of between £57 billion and £100 billion have been produced no independent NI research has been commissioned to account for local factors; and
This information is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018488%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336751"}},{"id":"336750","reference":"AQW 18487/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-06","answerBy":"2021-05-21","answered":"2021-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how much each Health and Social Care Trust has spent on agency nursing staff in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Trust expenditure on agency staff has been incurred to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained and contributes importantly to maintaining service provision to patients and clients. HSC Trusts employ locum staff for several reasons, for example, cover for sickness and maternity/paternity leave; cover for existing vacancies; and when demand increases over the winter months. The primary aim of this is to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained at all times for patients and clients.\n\nThe Department monitors Health and Social Care Trusts’ expenditure on agency staff on a quarterly basis for specific staffing categories, across financial years. Information is not collected by service area. Expenditure on Agency Staff by Health and Social Care Trust, for the last five financial years, is given below. The last available data, currently available, for a complete financial year is 19/20.\n\nThe Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,325) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places.\n\nNursing and Midwifery Agency Expenditure\n\nTRUST\tFinancial Year 15-16\tFinancial Year 18-19\tFinancial Year 18-19\tFinancial Year 18-19\tFinancial Year 19-20\nBHSCT\t£6,668,756\t£9,467,147\t£12,529,388\t£19,231,230\t£38,494,367\nNHSCT\t£3,297,233\t£6,810,643\t£9,153,695\t£11,028,899\t£15,375,590\nSEHSCT\t£2,047,749\t£1,877,793\t£3,144,583\t£3,904,493\t£5,695,567\nSHSCT\t£1,399,191\t£2,423,601\t£3,758,100\t£10,843,948\t£20,056,606\nWHSCT\t£2,391,544\t£2,965,126\t£3,571,683\t£7,062,151\t£10,157,845\nNIAS\t£0\t£0\t£5,440\t£1,020\t£0\nTOTAL SPEND\t£15,804,473\t£23,544,310\t£32,162,889\t£52,071,741\t£89,779,974\n\nSource: HSC Trusts","answerHtml":"Trust expenditure on agency staff has been incurred to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained and contributes importantly to maintaining service provision to patients and clients. HSC Trusts employ locum staff for several reasons, for example, cover for sickness and maternity/paternity leave; cover for existing vacancies; and when demand increases over the winter months. The primary aim of this is to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained at all times for patients and clients.
The Department monitors Health and Social Care Trusts’ expenditure on agency staff on a quarterly basis for specific staffing categories, across financial years. Information is not collected by service area. Expenditure on Agency Staff by Health and Social Care Trust, for the last five financial years, is given below. The last available data, currently available, for a complete financial year is 19/20.
The Department is committed to sustained investment in growing the local nursing and midwifery workforce to meet ever increasing demands, for example, this year we have commissioned the highest ever number (1,325) of pre-registration nursing and midwifery training places.
Nursing and Midwifery Agency Expenditure
| TRUST | Financial Year 15-16 | Financial Year 18-19 | Financial Year 18-19 | Financial Year 18-19 | Financial Year 19-20 |
| BHSCT | £6,668,756 | £9,467,147 | £12,529,388 | £19,231,230 | £38,494,367 |
| NHSCT | £3,297,233 | £6,810,643 | £9,153,695 | £11,028,899 | £15,375,590 |
| SEHSCT | £2,047,749 | £1,877,793 | £3,144,583 | £3,904,493 | £5,695,567 |
| SHSCT | £1,399,191 | £2,423,601 | £3,758,100 | £10,843,948 | £20,056,606 |
| WHSCT | £2,391,544 | £2,965,126 | £3,571,683 | £7,062,151 | £10,157,845 |
| NIAS | £0 | £0 | £5,440 | £1,020 | £0 |
| TOTAL SPEND | £15,804,473 | £23,544,310 | £32,162,889 | £52,071,741 | £89,779,974 |
Source: HSC Trusts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018487%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336750"}},{"id":"336749","reference":"AQW 18486/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-06","answerBy":"2021-05-21","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 17789/17-22, to detail the number of (i) nurses and (ii) midwives that have joined Health and Social Care Trusts in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Information on the number of registered nurses and midwives joining Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations in each of the last five years is provided in the table below. The information presented has been calculated by comparing snapshots of directly employed HSC staff in post at 31 March each year, for example those who appeared on the March 2020 dataset but not March 2019 were classed as joiners in 2019/20. Not all joiners will be newly qualified, as some could be taking up employment in HSC organisations having left another part of the wider health & social care system e.g. general practice or nursing home care. Figures presented may exclude some short-term staff who were not captured on one or both datasets.\n\nRegistered Nursing & Midwifery Staff Joining HSC organisations in each year\n\nYear\tRegistered Nurses\tRegistered Midwives\n2015/16\t1,054\t55\n2016/17\t1,038\t77\n2017/18\t1,061\t69\n2018/19\t1,162\t65\n2019/20\t1,393\t70\n\nSource: Human Resources, Payroll, Travel & Subsistence (HRPTS) system","answerHtml":"Information on the number of registered nurses and midwives joining Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations in each of the last five years is provided in the table below. The information presented has been calculated by comparing snapshots of directly employed HSC staff in post at 31 March each year, for example those who appeared on the March 2020 dataset but not March 2019 were classed as joiners in 2019/20. Not all joiners will be newly qualified, as some could be taking up employment in HSC organisations having left another part of the wider health & social care system e.g. general practice or nursing home care. Figures presented may exclude some short-term staff who were not captured on one or both datasets.
Registered Nursing & Midwifery Staff Joining HSC organisations in each year
| Year | Registered Nurses | Registered Midwives |
| 2015/16 | 1,054 | 55 |
| 2016/17 | 1,038 | 77 |
| 2017/18 | 1,061 | 69 |
| 2018/19 | 1,162 | 65 |
| 2019/20 | 1,393 | 70 |
Source: Human Resources, Payroll, Travel & Subsistence (HRPTS) system
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018486%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336749"}},{"id":"338148","reference":"AQO 2060/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-06","answerBy":"2021-05-17","answered":"2021-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will provide any additional funding to offset income tax and other contributions related to COVID-19 recognition payments.","answerText":"I wrote to the Treasury asking that the recognition payments were not subject to income tax or other Government deductions. The Financial Secretary to the Treasury responded, advising that he didn’t believe there was a case for granting an exception in relation to this payment.\n\nSubsequently the Department of Health sought and received an additional allocation of £25m in February 2021 to mitigate the impact of income tax and other contributions related to the Healthcare Workers recognition payment.\n\nMy Department has not received any further bids for additional funding from the Department of Health related to this measure. Similarly, there have been no further bids received in relation to the Department for Communities acknowledgement payment to Supporting People staff. Should a bid be made, it would be for the Executive to agree any additional allocation.","answerHtml":"I wrote to the Treasury asking that the recognition payments were not subject to income tax or other Government deductions. The Financial Secretary to the Treasury responded, advising that he didn’t believe there was a case for granting an exception in relation to this payment.
Subsequently the Department of Health sought and received an additional allocation of £25m in February 2021 to mitigate the impact of income tax and other contributions related to the Healthcare Workers recognition payment.
My Department has not received any further bids for additional funding from the Department of Health related to this measure. Similarly, there have been no further bids received in relation to the Department for Communities acknowledgement payment to Supporting People staff. Should a bid be made, it would be for the Executive to agree any additional allocation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%202060%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=338148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=338148"}},{"id":"336588","reference":"AQW 18409/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 17483/17-22, to outline the potentially repercussive effects of mandatory autism training for teachers of autistic pupils on other areas of special educational needs.","answerText":"Following the NI Assembly motion in February 2020 to explore the introduction of mandatory autism training for all teachers and classroom assistants, the Department has received a number of requests to consider mandatory training in relation to other incidences of Special Educational Needs (SEN).\n\nThe Education Authority’s Children and Young People’s Services Training Programme for 2020-21 offers a bespoke range of specialist training for education professionals (as well as parents) from a range of services, including the Autism Advisory and Intervention Service.\n\nAs outlined in AQW 17483/17-22, the Department’s Learning Leaders Strategy signals a move away from ‘top-down’ and ‘one-size-fits-all’ approaches to staff development, with teachers reflecting routinely on their own practice and assuming responsibility for their own professional learning and development, in conjunction with school leaders and based on the needs of pupils. It is then for the school leaders to identify and plan the professional development required for their own schools, providing staff with access to professional learning as their careers progress and specific incidences of SEN are presented in their classrooms.","answerHtml":"Following the NI Assembly motion in February 2020 to explore the introduction of mandatory autism training for all teachers and classroom assistants, the Department has received a number of requests to consider mandatory training in relation to other incidences of Special Educational Needs (SEN).
The Education Authority’s Children and Young People’s Services Training Programme for 2020-21 offers a bespoke range of specialist training for education professionals (as well as parents) from a range of services, including the Autism Advisory and Intervention Service.
As outlined in AQW 17483/17-22, the Department’s Learning Leaders Strategy signals a move away from ‘top-down’ and ‘one-size-fits-all’ approaches to staff development, with teachers reflecting routinely on their own practice and assuming responsibility for their own professional learning and development, in conjunction with school leaders and based on the needs of pupils. It is then for the school leaders to identify and plan the professional development required for their own schools, providing staff with access to professional learning as their careers progress and specific incidences of SEN are presented in their classrooms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018409%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336588","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336588"}},{"id":"336587","reference":"AQW 18408/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for her assessment of police numbers in the Causeway Coast and Glens area; and (ii) to detail what conversations she has had with the Chief Constable regarding this issue.","answerText":"Decisions relating to the deployment of police officers, including to the Causeway Coast and Glens area, are ultimately an operational matter for the Chief Constable of the PSNI, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB). I have not spoken with the Chief Constable specifically about police officer numbers in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nI am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the NIPB.","answerHtml":"Decisions relating to the deployment of police officers, including to the Causeway Coast and Glens area, are ultimately an operational matter for the Chief Constable of the PSNI, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB). I have not spoken with the Chief Constable specifically about police officer numbers in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the NIPB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018408%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336587","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336587"}},{"id":"336586","reference":"AQW 18407/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) any further measures she is considering for Portrush and Portstewart in relation to traffic calming measures, beyond those already announced, in order to mitigate the negative consequences of car cruises in the towns; and (ii) the latest conversations she has had with the various stakeholders involved in this issue.","answerText":"My Department has recently installed traffic calming measures, in the form of road humps, on Lansdowne Road in Portrush with the aim of limiting vehicle speeds and improving pedestrian safety. I understand that senior officials from Northern Division are also engaging with PSNI, and met with the District Commander as recently as 7 May 2021, to discuss a number of traffic related issues in the area including exploring the possibility of implementing additional traffic calming measures in Portstewart and Portrush.\n\nDriver and Vehicle Agency technical officers also work closely with the police and carry out inspections on modified cars stopped by Police in the Portrush and Portstewart areas which can result in the issuing of Prohibition Notices to drivers or immediate bans from use on our roads due to dangerous defects.\n\nAs Minister responsible for promoting and improving road safety, I am committed to working collaboratively with all partners to ensure that we can reduce death and serious injuries on our roads. I am committed to ensuring that my officials in the DVA continue to support the PSNI, and other agencies, to conduct compliance checks on vehicles using our roads, taking the appropriate enforcement action as required.\n\nI also look forward to the outcome of a noise camera trial commissioned by the Department for Transport in GB and how this exciting new technology could potentially alleviate the negative consequences of car cruises and help us lead the way in making our towns and cities quieter throughout Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently installed traffic calming measures, in the form of road humps, on Lansdowne Road in Portrush with the aim of limiting vehicle speeds and improving pedestrian safety. I understand that senior officials from Northern Division are also engaging with PSNI, and met with the District Commander as recently as 7 May 2021, to discuss a number of traffic related issues in the area including exploring the possibility of implementing additional traffic calming measures in Portstewart and Portrush.
Driver and Vehicle Agency technical officers also work closely with the police and carry out inspections on modified cars stopped by Police in the Portrush and Portstewart areas which can result in the issuing of Prohibition Notices to drivers or immediate bans from use on our roads due to dangerous defects.
As Minister responsible for promoting and improving road safety, I am committed to working collaboratively with all partners to ensure that we can reduce death and serious injuries on our roads. I am committed to ensuring that my officials in the DVA continue to support the PSNI, and other agencies, to conduct compliance checks on vehicles using our roads, taking the appropriate enforcement action as required.
I also look forward to the outcome of a noise camera trial commissioned by the Department for Transport in GB and how this exciting new technology could potentially alleviate the negative consequences of car cruises and help us lead the way in making our towns and cities quieter throughout Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018407%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336586","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336586"}},{"id":"336585","reference":"AQW 18406/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any research his Department has carried out into the effects of minimum alcohol pricing on public health.","answerText":"My Department previously commissioned a report from the University of Sheffield which concluded that a Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) for alcohol would be effective in reducing alcohol consumption, alcohol-related harms (including alcohol-related deaths, hospitalisations, crimes and workplace absences) and the costs associated with those harms. This report is available in full on the DoH website at:https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/alcohol-and-drug-mup-ni-report-from-university-of-sheffield.pdf\n\nOnce finalised, NI’s forthcoming new Substance Use Strategy will contain my commitment to have a full consultation on MUP within the next year. This consultation will examine a range of possible options in respect of alcohol pricing, including consideration of the emerging evidence of the effectiveness of MUP following its implementation in Scotland and elsewhere. Any policy considerations arising from the consultation will be brought to the Executive in due course.","answerHtml":"My Department previously commissioned a report from the University of Sheffield which concluded that a Minimum Unit Pricing (MUP) for alcohol would be effective in reducing alcohol consumption, alcohol-related harms (including alcohol-related deaths, hospitalisations, crimes and workplace absences) and the costs associated with those harms. This report is available in full on the DoH website at:https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/alcohol-and-drug-mup-ni-report-from-university-of-sheffield.pdf
Once finalised, NI’s forthcoming new Substance Use Strategy will contain my commitment to have a full consultation on MUP within the next year. This consultation will examine a range of possible options in respect of alcohol pricing, including consideration of the emerging evidence of the effectiveness of MUP following its implementation in Scotland and elsewhere. Any policy considerations arising from the consultation will be brought to the Executive in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018406%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336585"}},{"id":"336584","reference":"AQW 18405/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-05","answerBy":"2021-05-20","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 18097/17-22, to detail the 'did not attend' appointments for the last three years, broken down by hospital department.","answerText":"Data relating to outpatient activity, including the number of appointments patients missed/did not attend (DNA), are published annually by financial year. The number of missed outpatient appointments, known as DNAs (Did Not Attend) is defined as ‘the number of patients who did not attend, and failed to give advance warning to the hospital, for an outpatient appointment. This includes patients who cancelled their outpatient appointment on the same day on which the appointment was scheduled. These should not be confused with those who could not attend and who did warn the hospital in advance (before the day on which the appointment was scheduled)’.\n\nThis data is available by hospital site in the most recent publication which was released in August 2020 and can be found at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/hospital-statistics-outpatient-activity-statistics-201920.\n\nData for 2020/21 is not available by hospital site.","answerHtml":"Data relating to outpatient activity, including the number of appointments patients missed/did not attend (DNA), are published annually by financial year. The number of missed outpatient appointments, known as DNAs (Did Not Attend) is defined as ‘the number of patients who did not attend, and failed to give advance warning to the hospital, for an outpatient appointment. This includes patients who cancelled their outpatient appointment on the same day on which the appointment was scheduled. These should not be confused with those who could not attend and who did warn the hospital in advance (before the day on which the appointment was scheduled)’.
This data is available by hospital site in the most recent publication which was released in August 2020 and can be found at the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/hospital-statistics-outpatient-activity-statistics-201920.
Data for 2020/21 is not available by hospital site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018405%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336584","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336584"}},{"id":"336357","reference":"AQW 18309/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-04","answerBy":"2021-05-19","answered":"2021-08-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans to expand the mains gas network in East Londonderry, including Portrush.","answerText":"East Londonderry falls within the Ten Towns Licensed Network Area which is being developed by Firmus Energy. The company advises that, over the next three years, it plans to lay an additional 77.16km of new gas mains, with the aim of making natural gas available to an additional 7,681 households and businesses in the areas detailed in the table below:\n\nProposed Network Build Over Three Years (2021-2023)\nNetwork Area\tProposed Length New Mains Laid (kms)\tAdditional Properties Passed as a Result of New Mains Laid\nLimavady\t13.08\t1,421\nColeraine\t49.40\t4,652\nPortstewart\t14.68\t1,608\nTotals\t77.16\t7681\n\nWhile Firmus Energy has no current plans to extend its gas network to Portrush, with sufficient gas loads, and subject to the necessary approval being granted by the Utility Regulator, the company advises that it may be able to extend its gas network to Portrush in future. However, it is not possible at present to estimate when this might happen.","answerHtml":"East Londonderry falls within the Ten Towns Licensed Network Area which is being developed by Firmus Energy. The company advises that, over the next three years, it plans to lay an additional 77.16km of new gas mains, with the aim of making natural gas available to an additional 7,681 households and businesses in the areas detailed in the table below:
| Proposed Network Build Over Three Years (2021-2023) | ||
| Network Area | Proposed Length New Mains Laid (kms) | Additional Properties Passed as a Result of New Mains Laid |
| Limavady | 13.08 | 1,421 |
| Coleraine | 49.40 | 4,652 |
| Portstewart | 14.68 | 1,608 |
| Totals | 77.16 | 7681 |
While Firmus Energy has no current plans to extend its gas network to Portrush, with sufficient gas loads, and subject to the necessary approval being granted by the Utility Regulator, the company advises that it may be able to extend its gas network to Portrush in future. However, it is not possible at present to estimate when this might happen.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018309%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336357"}},{"id":"336356","reference":"AQW 18308/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-04","answerBy":"2021-05-19","answered":"2021-07-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the number of businesses that have filed for insolvency in each of the past five years, broken down by constituency area.","answerText":"The number of sole trader business bankruptcies and winding up orders, for limited companies, for the previous five financial years, is detailed in the table below, broken down by constituency.\n\n2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/2020\t2020/21\nConstituency\tSole Trader\tWinding Up Orders\tSole Trader\tWinding Up Orders\tSole Trader\tWinding Up Orders\tSole Trader\tWinding Up Orders\tSole Trader\tWinding Up Orders\nBelfast East\t14\t18\t18\t7\t7\t4\t12\t12\t0\t1\nBelfast North\t16\t19\t30\t11\t15\t8\t14\t16\t0\t2\nBelfast South\t27\t32\t16\t22\t16\t44\t20\t26\t0\t1\nBelfast West\t21\t9\t6\t5\t14\t8\t20\t12\t0\t1\nEast Antrim\t27\t7\t12\t4\t16\t7\t18\t8\t0\t0\nEast Londonderry\t28\t18\t32\t4\t27\t11\t19\t15\t0\t0\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t18\t16\t36\t12\t18\t12\t38\t15\t0\t0\nFoyle\t21\t13\t16\t8\t24\t9\t20\t9\t0\t0\nLagan Valley\t30\t13\t21\t7\t11\t9\t19\t17\t0\t0\nMid Ulster\t25\t15\t40\t6\t19\t2\t22\t8\t0\t0\nNewry & Armagh\t35\t27\t42\t17\t29\t15\t36\t17\t0\t0\nNorth Antrim\t22\t4\t32\t4\t24\t5\t16\t7\t0\t0\nNorth Down\t25\t13\t26\t13\t13\t9\t12\t10\t0\t0\nSouth Antrim\t29\t15\t32\t2\t13\t6\t14\t13\t1\t0\nSouth Down\t32\t10\t31\t6\t28\t11\t19\t7\t0\t0\nStrangford\t21\t7\t23\t7\t19\t6\t13\t11\t0\t0\nUpper Bann\t25\t19\t27\t9\t34\t12\t14\t13\t0\t0\nWest Tyrone\t26\t13\t34\t11\t18\t8\t19\t13\t0\t0\nOutside NI\t\t\t2*\t1**\nTotal\t442\t268\t476\t156\t345\t186\t345\t229\t1\t5\n\n*The High Court was satisfied that the bankrupts’ centre of main business interest was in Northern Ireland.\n\n**This winding up order was rescinded and subsequently made in the correct jurisdiction.\n\nThe low number of insolvency cases in 2020/21 was a result of two main circumstances arising from the pandemic. Firstly, the High Court was unable to operate at normal capacity as a result of COVID restrictions which significantly reduced the number of bankruptcy and winding-up orders that it could consider.\n\nSecondly, my Department introduced both permanent and temporary measures to provide assistance and support to companies and mutual societies during the crisis within the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020.\n\nThis Act temporarily prevents statutory demands, served from 1 March 2020, from forming the basis of a winding-up petition. In addition, it prohibits a winding-up petition being presented against a company where the debt was due to circumstances arising from the pandemic.\n\nThese temporary provisions will be in place until 30 September 2021.","answerHtml":"The number of sole trader business bankruptcies and winding up orders, for limited companies, for the previous five financial years, is detailed in the table below, broken down by constituency.
| 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/2020 | 2020/21 | ||||||
| Constituency | Sole Trader | Winding Up Orders | Sole Trader | Winding Up Orders | Sole Trader | Winding Up Orders | Sole Trader | Winding Up Orders | Sole Trader | Winding Up Orders |
| Belfast East | 14 | 18 | 18 | 7 | 7 | 4 | 12 | 12 | 0 | 1 |
| Belfast North | 16 | 19 | 30 | 11 | 15 | 8 | 14 | 16 | 0 | 2 |
| Belfast South | 27 | 32 | 16 | 22 | 16 | 44 | 20 | 26 | 0 | 1 |
| Belfast West | 21 | 9 | 6 | 5 | 14 | 8 | 20 | 12 | 0 | 1 |
| East Antrim | 27 | 7 | 12 | 4 | 16 | 7 | 18 | 8 | 0 | 0 |
| East Londonderry | 28 | 18 | 32 | 4 | 27 | 11 | 19 | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 18 | 16 | 36 | 12 | 18 | 12 | 38 | 15 | 0 | 0 |
| Foyle | 21 | 13 | 16 | 8 | 24 | 9 | 20 | 9 | 0 | 0 |
| Lagan Valley | 30 | 13 | 21 | 7 | 11 | 9 | 19 | 17 | 0 | 0 |
| Mid Ulster | 25 | 15 | 40 | 6 | 19 | 2 | 22 | 8 | 0 | 0 |
| Newry & Armagh | 35 | 27 | 42 | 17 | 29 | 15 | 36 | 17 | 0 | 0 |
| North Antrim | 22 | 4 | 32 | 4 | 24 | 5 | 16 | 7 | 0 | 0 |
| North Down | 25 | 13 | 26 | 13 | 13 | 9 | 12 | 10 | 0 | 0 |
| South Antrim | 29 | 15 | 32 | 2 | 13 | 6 | 14 | 13 | 1 | 0 |
| South Down | 32 | 10 | 31 | 6 | 28 | 11 | 19 | 7 | 0 | 0 |
| Strangford | 21 | 7 | 23 | 7 | 19 | 6 | 13 | 11 | 0 | 0 |
| Upper Bann | 25 | 19 | 27 | 9 | 34 | 12 | 14 | 13 | 0 | 0 |
| West Tyrone | 26 | 13 | 34 | 11 | 18 | 8 | 19 | 13 | 0 | 0 |
| Outside NI | 2* | 1** | ||||||||
| Total | 442 | 268 | 476 | 156 | 345 | 186 | 345 | 229 | 1 | 5 |
*The High Court was satisfied that the bankrupts’ centre of main business interest was in Northern Ireland.
**This winding up order was rescinded and subsequently made in the correct jurisdiction.
The low number of insolvency cases in 2020/21 was a result of two main circumstances arising from the pandemic. Firstly, the High Court was unable to operate at normal capacity as a result of COVID restrictions which significantly reduced the number of bankruptcy and winding-up orders that it could consider.
Secondly, my Department introduced both permanent and temporary measures to provide assistance and support to companies and mutual societies during the crisis within the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020.
This Act temporarily prevents statutory demands, served from 1 March 2020, from forming the basis of a winding-up petition. In addition, it prohibits a winding-up petition being presented against a company where the debt was due to circumstances arising from the pandemic.
These temporary provisions will be in place until 30 September 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018308%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336356"}},{"id":"336355","reference":"AQW 18307/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-04","answerBy":"2021-05-19","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the long term plans she has to help further and higher education students recover from the financial, educational and mental health challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic, including local students studying in different jurisdictions.","answerText":"Further Education\n\nMy Department provides a range of on-going financial support measures to further education learners. These include Further Education (FE) Grants; FE Education Hardship Fund; Care to Learn childcare scheme; Home to College Transport; Free School Meals / Clothing Allowance; and Additional Support Fund for those with a disability. The combined value of these support arrangements totals £13 million per annum.\n\nIn response to the Covid-19 pandemic, my Department has worked with the FE colleges during the 2020/21 financial year to increase the flexibility of these policies in relation to student support, to make them more accessible. The Hardship Fund extensions and direct free school meal payments into households have been continued into Term 3 of the 2020/21 academic year, with holiday payments to continue until Easter 2022. An extension for grant applications to 29 October 2021 is in place for learners applying for the 2021/22 academic year.\n\nMy Department will continue to monitor how further education learners are being affected financially as a result of Covid-19 in the forthcoming academic year and will review existing arrangements when needs are identified.\n\nIn order to minimise disruption to education for FE learners, my Department has been working with the sector to identify those learners most at risk of not completing courses and has worked with the Executive to ensure that they can return to on-site learning to complete practical work and assessments this academic year to enable them to progress into further training or enter the job market.\n\nSupporting learner welfare and mental health in post-16 learning is, at all times, a key priority for my Department. FE colleges are acutely aware of the impact of the pandemic and social isolation on the mental health and welfare of their learners, and have a range of learner support services available including resilience training, a free counselling service, Health and Well-being Action Plans, and ensuring safeguarding of all learners by providing them with access to the appropriate guidance and support. A range of college staff are qualified to identify, provide support for and direct learners, who are considered to be at risk, to the appropriate help and advice. This work was stepped up in response to Covid-19 to ensure support is available for learners in this period of challenge. Learner Support teams continue to work with curriculum teams to engage with all learners, including those who may not be fully participating.\n\nI met with the Executive’s Mental Health Champion, Professor Siobhan O`Neill, and shared with her details of what the FE sector is doing to support the welfare and mental health of learners. Officials have had subsequent further meetings with Professor O’Neill to explore how to better support learners in FE, and ensure that mental health support remains as responsive as possible to changing and increasing needs of learners.\n\nMy Department is also undertaking a comprehensive review of Student Support in FE, including associated costs. This full review of the collective package of FE Student Support will seek to identify trends and areas of increased need for mental health and welfare support for students, and make appropriate recommendations for improvement, to help address the impacts of the pandemic and beyond.\n\nHigher Education\n\nIn addition to the recent £22m which I secured to fund a one-off discretionary payment of £500 to Higher Education (HE) students, I also secured an additional £8.5m to further support HE students. This latter funding is being used to provide hardship support to students in need, with an emphasis on targeting those in lower household income brackets. It also allocates funding to the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to assist with supporting digital inclusion for students, and increasing support for our Student Unions and tackling mental health concerns.\n\nStudent mental health remains one of the biggest challenges facing the education sector and has been exacerbated by the recent pandemic. My officials remain in contact with the NI HEIs about this matter and are keeping a close eye on demand for services. Included in the above-mentioned £8.5m of additional support is £530k of funding for specific student wellbeing initiatives in the HEIs.\n\nFinancial pressures are often pointed to as a source of stress or cause of mental health strain, and to this end I have secured £1.4m from the NI Executive along with a further £1.4m from the Department’s own budget, in addition to the existing £2.8m budget, bringing the total available for student support funds (hardship funds) to £5.6m.\n\nI would urge any student struggling with their mental health to speak out and seek help. They may wish to speak to their University’s Student Wellbeing Service as a first point of contact. I would also urge any student who is struggling financially to speak with their HEI about how they may provide support, as it is the HEI which administers the hardship funds.\n\nMy officials and I will continue to engage with the FE colleges and HEIs to ensure that the needs of students are met for the coming academic year, and where a need for appropriate interventions or additional support is identified, I will seek to bid for any required funding.","answerHtml":"Further Education
My Department provides a range of on-going financial support measures to further education learners. These include Further Education (FE) Grants; FE Education Hardship Fund; Care to Learn childcare scheme; Home to College Transport; Free School Meals / Clothing Allowance; and Additional Support Fund for those with a disability. The combined value of these support arrangements totals £13 million per annum.
In response to the Covid-19 pandemic, my Department has worked with the FE colleges during the 2020/21 financial year to increase the flexibility of these policies in relation to student support, to make them more accessible. The Hardship Fund extensions and direct free school meal payments into households have been continued into Term 3 of the 2020/21 academic year, with holiday payments to continue until Easter 2022. An extension for grant applications to 29 October 2021 is in place for learners applying for the 2021/22 academic year.
My Department will continue to monitor how further education learners are being affected financially as a result of Covid-19 in the forthcoming academic year and will review existing arrangements when needs are identified.
In order to minimise disruption to education for FE learners, my Department has been working with the sector to identify those learners most at risk of not completing courses and has worked with the Executive to ensure that they can return to on-site learning to complete practical work and assessments this academic year to enable them to progress into further training or enter the job market.
Supporting learner welfare and mental health in post-16 learning is, at all times, a key priority for my Department. FE colleges are acutely aware of the impact of the pandemic and social isolation on the mental health and welfare of their learners, and have a range of learner support services available including resilience training, a free counselling service, Health and Well-being Action Plans, and ensuring safeguarding of all learners by providing them with access to the appropriate guidance and support. A range of college staff are qualified to identify, provide support for and direct learners, who are considered to be at risk, to the appropriate help and advice. This work was stepped up in response to Covid-19 to ensure support is available for learners in this period of challenge. Learner Support teams continue to work with curriculum teams to engage with all learners, including those who may not be fully participating.
I met with the Executive’s Mental Health Champion, Professor Siobhan O`Neill, and shared with her details of what the FE sector is doing to support the welfare and mental health of learners. Officials have had subsequent further meetings with Professor O’Neill to explore how to better support learners in FE, and ensure that mental health support remains as responsive as possible to changing and increasing needs of learners.
My Department is also undertaking a comprehensive review of Student Support in FE, including associated costs. This full review of the collective package of FE Student Support will seek to identify trends and areas of increased need for mental health and welfare support for students, and make appropriate recommendations for improvement, to help address the impacts of the pandemic and beyond.
Higher Education
In addition to the recent £22m which I secured to fund a one-off discretionary payment of £500 to Higher Education (HE) students, I also secured an additional £8.5m to further support HE students. This latter funding is being used to provide hardship support to students in need, with an emphasis on targeting those in lower household income brackets. It also allocates funding to the Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to assist with supporting digital inclusion for students, and increasing support for our Student Unions and tackling mental health concerns.
Student mental health remains one of the biggest challenges facing the education sector and has been exacerbated by the recent pandemic. My officials remain in contact with the NI HEIs about this matter and are keeping a close eye on demand for services. Included in the above-mentioned £8.5m of additional support is £530k of funding for specific student wellbeing initiatives in the HEIs.
Financial pressures are often pointed to as a source of stress or cause of mental health strain, and to this end I have secured £1.4m from the NI Executive along with a further £1.4m from the Department’s own budget, in addition to the existing £2.8m budget, bringing the total available for student support funds (hardship funds) to £5.6m.
I would urge any student struggling with their mental health to speak out and seek help. They may wish to speak to their University’s Student Wellbeing Service as a first point of contact. I would also urge any student who is struggling financially to speak with their HEI about how they may provide support, as it is the HEI which administers the hardship funds.
My officials and I will continue to engage with the FE colleges and HEIs to ensure that the needs of students are met for the coming academic year, and where a need for appropriate interventions or additional support is identified, I will seek to bid for any required funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018307%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336355"}},{"id":"336354","reference":"AQW 18306/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-04","answerBy":"2021-05-19","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the total average number of hours worked per week by youth workers in each constituency in each of the past five years.","answerText":"My Department is unable to provide this information due to the following reasons:\n\nThe fragmented nature of groups that utilise both paid or voluntary youth workers;\n\nThe large number of independent groups that would hold this information locally, gathered in a variety of methods and detail;\n\nThat volunteer unpaid youth workers are unlikely to hold accurate or indeed any records of hours worked as might be expected of paid employees;\n\nThat paid youth workers would have a fixed contract with their employer however may work above those hours but are unlikely to be recorded, and;\n\nThe extended length of period the information is sought.","answerHtml":"My Department is unable to provide this information due to the following reasons:
The fragmented nature of groups that utilise both paid or voluntary youth workers;
The large number of independent groups that would hold this information locally, gathered in a variety of methods and detail;
That volunteer unpaid youth workers are unlikely to hold accurate or indeed any records of hours worked as might be expected of paid employees;
That paid youth workers would have a fixed contract with their employer however may work above those hours but are unlikely to be recorded, and;
The extended length of period the information is sought.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018306%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336354"}},{"id":"336353","reference":"AQW 18305/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-05-04","answerBy":"2021-05-19","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to recommence normal visitation rights of partners to expectant and new mothers in hospitals.","answerText":"My officials recently completed a review of the guidance for all healthcare settings. New guidance for visiting in hospices and hospitals was issued on 30 April 2021, effective from 7 May 2021, and represents a significant easement in the restrictions formerly in place.\n\nIn general hospitals, one daily visit from one of two nominated individuals (from up to two households) can be permitted, with the timing/ duration agreed with the person in charge.\n\nIn respect of maternity, a chosen birth partner will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to any pregnancy related appointments or ultrasound scans, and to accompany the pregnant woman for induction of labour, duration of labour and birth and, for up to three hours after the birth.\n\nWhere the woman is receiving inpatient care, one daily visit from one of two nominated individuals (from up to two households) can be permitted.\n\nFull implementation of the new guidance will be subject to a dynamic risk assessment, but all five local Health & Social Care Trusts have undertaken to work to ensure measures are put in place to facilitate this as soon as possible.\n\nThe full guidance (https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance) sets out the detailed guidance for each category of care.","answerHtml":"My officials recently completed a review of the guidance for all healthcare settings. New guidance for visiting in hospices and hospitals was issued on 30 April 2021, effective from 7 May 2021, and represents a significant easement in the restrictions formerly in place.
In general hospitals, one daily visit from one of two nominated individuals (from up to two households) can be permitted, with the timing/ duration agreed with the person in charge.
In respect of maternity, a chosen birth partner will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to any pregnancy related appointments or ultrasound scans, and to accompany the pregnant woman for induction of labour, duration of labour and birth and, for up to three hours after the birth.
Where the woman is receiving inpatient care, one daily visit from one of two nominated individuals (from up to two households) can be permitted.
Full implementation of the new guidance will be subject to a dynamic risk assessment, but all five local Health & Social Care Trusts have undertaken to work to ensure measures are put in place to facilitate this as soon as possible.
The full guidance (https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance) sets out the detailed guidance for each category of care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018305%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=336353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=336353"}},{"id":"335826","reference":"AQW 18175/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-29","answerBy":"2021-05-17","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the (i) conversations had with; and (ii) advice given to bars and restaurants in relation to the rules on outdoor seating areas, prior to 30 April 2021.","answerText":"This is not within the remit of my Department. This is for the Department of Health.","answerHtml":"This is not within the remit of my Department. This is for the Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018175%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335826","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335826"}},{"id":"335825","reference":"AQW 18174/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-29","answerBy":"2021-05-17","answered":"2021-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail any plans to reassess and revise her Department’s policies post-COVID-19, in order to reflect changes in society where more people are moving toward rural areas.","answerText":"My Department’s policies are regularly reviewed to ensure they continue to be relevant and appropriate. The changes in society due to COVID-19 will be fully considered when individual policy reviews are being undertaken.\n\nI am committed to delivering cleaner, greener and healthier communities as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing safe routes that give people the freedom and confidence to walk, wheel and cycle as part of their everyday routine is one of the ways in which I hope to change the way we live for the better.\n\nFor example, in addition to pop-up cycle lanes in Belfast and pop-up cycle infrastructure on Foyle Riverside and Queens Quay in Derry, I have provided funding to support Councils in the construction of greenway schemes across Northern Ireland. I am keen to provide further capital funding through my Blue Green Infrastructure Fund to assist Councils to develop greenways that will provide walking and cycling links to rural areas.\n\nI also contributed £5million to the DfC Covid 19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme which was allocated across Councils. This funding is being used for projects which improve connectivity by making it more attractive to walk and cycle to access key services and which protect and enhance our green and blue infrastructure.","answerHtml":"My Department’s policies are regularly reviewed to ensure they continue to be relevant and appropriate. The changes in society due to COVID-19 will be fully considered when individual policy reviews are being undertaken.
I am committed to delivering cleaner, greener and healthier communities as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic. Providing safe routes that give people the freedom and confidence to walk, wheel and cycle as part of their everyday routine is one of the ways in which I hope to change the way we live for the better.
For example, in addition to pop-up cycle lanes in Belfast and pop-up cycle infrastructure on Foyle Riverside and Queens Quay in Derry, I have provided funding to support Councils in the construction of greenway schemes across Northern Ireland. I am keen to provide further capital funding through my Blue Green Infrastructure Fund to assist Councils to develop greenways that will provide walking and cycling links to rural areas.
I also contributed £5million to the DfC Covid 19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme which was allocated across Councils. This funding is being used for projects which improve connectivity by making it more attractive to walk and cycle to access key services and which protect and enhance our green and blue infrastructure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018174%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335825"}},{"id":"335824","reference":"AQW 18173/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-29","answerBy":"2021-05-17","answered":"2021-05-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any plans he has to engage with the Department for the Economy to explore farm diversification options with farmers.","answerText":"Officials are currently finalising a draft Rural Policy Framework which will inform the need for support for rural communities and businesses going forward. I hope to be in apposition to launch an 8 week online consultation on this framework before the summer. It is too early to say what schemes will be required as part of a support programme but I’m sure there will be opportunities to assist farmers diversifying into non-agricultural activities. Officials will engage with relevant stakeholders, including the Department for the Economy, in developing future support.","answerHtml":"Officials are currently finalising a draft Rural Policy Framework which will inform the need for support for rural communities and businesses going forward. I hope to be in apposition to launch an 8 week online consultation on this framework before the summer. It is too early to say what schemes will be required as part of a support programme but I’m sure there will be opportunities to assist farmers diversifying into non-agricultural activities. Officials will engage with relevant stakeholders, including the Department for the Economy, in developing future support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018173%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335824","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335824"}},{"id":"335823","reference":"AQW 18172/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-29","answerBy":"2021-05-17","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any plans he has to create countryside management schemes, such as those for the planting of hedgerows on farmland, with a view to offsetting carbon emissions.","answerText":"My officials are working with farmers and land managers, agricultural industry representatives and environmental stakeholders to co-design a future agri-environment scheme. The scheme will help farmers to deliver a range of environmental outcomes, including improvements in water and air quality, biodiversity and reductions in carbon emissions. The range of measures under consideration includes the planting of hedgerows on farmland as one of the means of offsetting carbon emissions.\n\nThe Environmental Farming Scheme currently supports over 5,000 farms via carbon friendly practices including maintaining and establishing native woodland, enhancement of existing / planting of new hedgerows, agro-forestry and peatland restoration.","answerHtml":"My officials are working with farmers and land managers, agricultural industry representatives and environmental stakeholders to co-design a future agri-environment scheme. The scheme will help farmers to deliver a range of environmental outcomes, including improvements in water and air quality, biodiversity and reductions in carbon emissions. The range of measures under consideration includes the planting of hedgerows on farmland as one of the means of offsetting carbon emissions.
The Environmental Farming Scheme currently supports over 5,000 farms via carbon friendly practices including maintaining and establishing native woodland, enhancement of existing / planting of new hedgerows, agro-forestry and peatland restoration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018172%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335823","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335823"}},{"id":"335822","reference":"AQW 18171/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-29","answerBy":"2021-05-17","answered":"2021-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the number of motorists in the last year who have travelled to other parts of the UK in order to get their car MOT tested.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold information on the number of motorists who travel to GB in order to get their car MOT tested.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not hold information on the number of motorists who travel to GB in order to get their car MOT tested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018171%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335822"}},{"id":"335554","reference":"AQW 18097/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of missed medical appointments in each of the past three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Data relating to outpatient activity, including the number of appointments patients missed/did not attend (DNA), are published annually by financial year. The number of missed outpatient appointments, known as DNAs (Did Not Attend) is defined as ‘the number of patients who did not attend, and failed to give advance warning to the hospital, for an outpatient appointment. This includes patients who cancelled their outpatient appointment on the same day on which the appointment was scheduled. These should not be confused with those who could not attend and who did warn the hospital in advance (before the day on which the appointment was scheduled)’.\n\nThe most recent publication was released in August 2020 and can be found at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/hospital-statistics-outpatient-activity-statistics-201920.\n\nTable 1 provides a breakdown of missed outpatient appointments in the past three years by HSC Trust.\n\nTable 1 Number of missed outpatient appointments in each of the past three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust\n\nHSC Trust\t2018/19\t2019/20\tApril 2020 – December 2020*\nBelfast\t52,903\t56,529\t17,210\nNorthern\t11,881\t12,126\t4,048\nSouth Eastern\t22,754\t22,416\t7,330\nSouthern\t18,648\t16,395\t4,041\nWestern\t20,140\t19,778\t7,438\nTotal\t126,326\t127,244\t40,067\n\n*Data is provisional. Data for January to March 2021 is not available yet.","answerHtml":"Data relating to outpatient activity, including the number of appointments patients missed/did not attend (DNA), are published annually by financial year. The number of missed outpatient appointments, known as DNAs (Did Not Attend) is defined as ‘the number of patients who did not attend, and failed to give advance warning to the hospital, for an outpatient appointment. This includes patients who cancelled their outpatient appointment on the same day on which the appointment was scheduled. These should not be confused with those who could not attend and who did warn the hospital in advance (before the day on which the appointment was scheduled)’.
The most recent publication was released in August 2020 and can be found at the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/hospital-statistics-outpatient-activity-statistics-201920.
Table 1 provides a breakdown of missed outpatient appointments in the past three years by HSC Trust.
Table 1 Number of missed outpatient appointments in each of the past three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust
| HSC Trust | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | April 2020 – December 2020* |
| Belfast | 52,903 | 56,529 | 17,210 |
| Northern | 11,881 | 12,126 | 4,048 |
| South Eastern | 22,754 | 22,416 | 7,330 |
| Southern | 18,648 | 16,395 | 4,041 |
| Western | 20,140 | 19,778 | 7,438 |
| Total | 126,326 | 127,244 | 40,067 |
*Data is provisional. Data for January to March 2021 is not available yet.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018097%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335554"}},{"id":"335553","reference":"AQW 18096/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the carbon-reducing ability of new woodland, including the time new woodland spends as (i) a net carbon-producer; and (ii) a net carbon-sink.","answerText":"Planting woodland to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is a cost-effective way of reducing net emissions while also providing many other social and environmental benefits. To support an increase in the rate of afforestation I launched Forests for Our Future aiming to plant 9,000 hectares of new woodland by 2030, which is in line with recommendations made by the Committee for Climate Change Reducing emissions in Northern Ireland Report published in 2019.\n\nThe Woodland Carbon Code is a voluntary standard for UK woodland creation projects which allows woodland owners to create verified carbon credits, including for sale on the open market. The Code estimates carbon emissions for new woodland established on agricultural land are between 2 and 24 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) per hectare dependent on a range of site variables including: soil type, previous land use and site preparation. The same models indicate that the time taken for woodland to become a net carbon sink is between 10 and 15 years and can be earlier where particular sites have the lowest carbon emissions at planting. As woodlands mature the code estimates that the amount of carbon they can capture at the age of 50 years is 300-500 tCO2e per hectare and this figure can increase over a longer time period.","answerHtml":"Planting woodland to remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is a cost-effective way of reducing net emissions while also providing many other social and environmental benefits. To support an increase in the rate of afforestation I launched Forests for Our Future aiming to plant 9,000 hectares of new woodland by 2030, which is in line with recommendations made by the Committee for Climate Change Reducing emissions in Northern Ireland Report published in 2019.
The Woodland Carbon Code is a voluntary standard for UK woodland creation projects which allows woodland owners to create verified carbon credits, including for sale on the open market. The Code estimates carbon emissions for new woodland established on agricultural land are between 2 and 24 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (tCO2e) per hectare dependent on a range of site variables including: soil type, previous land use and site preparation. The same models indicate that the time taken for woodland to become a net carbon sink is between 10 and 15 years and can be earlier where particular sites have the lowest carbon emissions at planting. As woodlands mature the code estimates that the amount of carbon they can capture at the age of 50 years is 300-500 tCO2e per hectare and this figure can increase over a longer time period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018096%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335553"}},{"id":"335552","reference":"AQW 18095/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment of the efficacy of methane-lowering animal feed supplements; and (ii) to detail any steps he has taken to encourage farmers to use such supplements to contribute to lowering the industry’s greenhouse gas emissions.","answerText":"There are no methane-lowering feed supplements on the market in the UK at present. However, in some parts of the world there are a range of supplements which are recently released or under development, with some more advanced than others. Research findings indicate that the supplements offer a range of potential to reduce enteric methane emissions from ~10% up to over 80%.\n\nThe feed additive 3-Nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) for ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats, deer, and other ruminants) has been researched and developed over 10 years by the Dutch company Royal DSM. Results indicate that using a quarter teaspoon daily in a cow’s diet reduced enteric methane emission by approximately 30%. DSM has filed for commercial registration of 3-NOP under the trade name Bovaer® and currently await EU approval.\n\nA livestock feed additive made from the seaweed Asparagopsis sp. has been shown to reduce methane emissions in beef and dairy cattle by more than 80 % in research trials in Australia and the USA. Further research is underway and a company has been formed to scale up and commercialise a product made from Asparagopsis sp.\n\nOther products of note include the garlic and citric acid based supplement Mootral™ being developed by a Swiss company, that has been shown to reduce enteric methane emissions by between 23% and 30% in on farm research and Agolin® Ruminant, a plant-based feed additive produced by another Swiss company that is claimed to reduce methane emissions from cattle by between 10% and 20%.\n\nLocally, AFBI Hillsborough is currently undertaking a range of projects which aim to develop mitigation strategies for lower enteric methane emissions in dairy, beef cattle and sheep production, though dietary inclusions of seaweed additives, oil, white/red clover, multispecies forage, etc.\n\nAFBI is also investing in infrastructure (using DAERA funding) that will improve their capacity to develop effective methane lowering strategies for adoption on NI cattle/sheep farms. This will enable research, in collaboration with Queens University Belfast, which will identify potential methane-reducing candidates and trial successful products through a forthcoming ruminant emissions research facility. Uptake on Farm will then be encouraged by CAFRE and through working with the local feed industry, using the confidence from the scientific studies conducted in AFBI and QUB.","answerHtml":"There are no methane-lowering feed supplements on the market in the UK at present. However, in some parts of the world there are a range of supplements which are recently released or under development, with some more advanced than others. Research findings indicate that the supplements offer a range of potential to reduce enteric methane emissions from ~10% up to over 80%.
The feed additive 3-Nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) for ruminants (cattle, sheep, goats, deer, and other ruminants) has been researched and developed over 10 years by the Dutch company Royal DSM. Results indicate that using a quarter teaspoon daily in a cow’s diet reduced enteric methane emission by approximately 30%. DSM has filed for commercial registration of 3-NOP under the trade name Bovaer® and currently await EU approval.
A livestock feed additive made from the seaweed Asparagopsis sp. has been shown to reduce methane emissions in beef and dairy cattle by more than 80 % in research trials in Australia and the USA. Further research is underway and a company has been formed to scale up and commercialise a product made from Asparagopsis sp.
Other products of note include the garlic and citric acid based supplement Mootral™ being developed by a Swiss company, that has been shown to reduce enteric methane emissions by between 23% and 30% in on farm research and Agolin® Ruminant, a plant-based feed additive produced by another Swiss company that is claimed to reduce methane emissions from cattle by between 10% and 20%.
Locally, AFBI Hillsborough is currently undertaking a range of projects which aim to develop mitigation strategies for lower enteric methane emissions in dairy, beef cattle and sheep production, though dietary inclusions of seaweed additives, oil, white/red clover, multispecies forage, etc.
AFBI is also investing in infrastructure (using DAERA funding) that will improve their capacity to develop effective methane lowering strategies for adoption on NI cattle/sheep farms. This will enable research, in collaboration with Queens University Belfast, which will identify potential methane-reducing candidates and trial successful products through a forthcoming ruminant emissions research facility. Uptake on Farm will then be encouraged by CAFRE and through working with the local feed industry, using the confidence from the scientific studies conducted in AFBI and QUB.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018095%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335552"}},{"id":"335551","reference":"AQW 18094/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to what extent will the implementation and ongoing policy development of the new Energy Strategy be carried out by departmental officials, and external staff; and (ii) for the anticipated cost of utilising external staff for these roles.","answerText":"Whilst my department is leading on the development of the Executive’s new Energy Strategy, responsibility for policy development rests with officials from all departments with an energy remit. We have brought these officials together through the Energy Strategy Government Stakeholders Group and the five working groups (consumers, energy efficiency, heat, power and transport).\n\nWe have ensured external input to the policy development process through a range of routes including the Call for Evidence, stakeholder groups, working groups, the Expert Panel and an ongoing research and analytical work programme. The current consultation also provides a further opportunity for external input to its development. However, decision making for energy policies remains the responsibility of departmental officials, not external representatives.\n\nThe role of external staff – for example through regulated companies or delivery bodies – in implementing future energy policies will depend on the priorities identified through the Energy Strategy and will be specific to each individual energy intervention. It is not possible to anticipate the role and associated costs of external staff at this stage in the strategy development process.","answerHtml":"Whilst my department is leading on the development of the Executive’s new Energy Strategy, responsibility for policy development rests with officials from all departments with an energy remit. We have brought these officials together through the Energy Strategy Government Stakeholders Group and the five working groups (consumers, energy efficiency, heat, power and transport).
We have ensured external input to the policy development process through a range of routes including the Call for Evidence, stakeholder groups, working groups, the Expert Panel and an ongoing research and analytical work programme. The current consultation also provides a further opportunity for external input to its development. However, decision making for energy policies remains the responsibility of departmental officials, not external representatives.
The role of external staff – for example through regulated companies or delivery bodies – in implementing future energy policies will depend on the priorities identified through the Energy Strategy and will be specific to each individual energy intervention. It is not possible to anticipate the role and associated costs of external staff at this stage in the strategy development process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018094%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335551"}},{"id":"335550","reference":"AQW 18093/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-28","answerBy":"2021-05-14","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the collaborative work carried out with other Departments, in particular the Department for Infrastructure and the Department for Communities, in developing the new energy strategy.","answerText":"I recognise that the development and delivery of a new Energy Strategy requires a joined-up approach across the Executive. That is why my department has led a significant collaborative work programme across central government and also involving local government, arms-length bodies, the energy industry and other key stakeholders.\n\nThe structures put in place include a Government Stakeholders Group, which bring together all departments with a remit for energy policy; the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) and Department for Communities (DfC) are both members of this. Officials from DfI and DfC, along with other departments including the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), are represented on working groups of relevance to their policy remits. In addition, DfI leads the Transport Working Group for the Energy Strategy.\n\nThe success of this collaborative approach is clearly evidenced through the Energy Strategy Policy Options Consultation published at the end of March, which covers the full breadth of energy policy issues across the Executive.","answerHtml":"I recognise that the development and delivery of a new Energy Strategy requires a joined-up approach across the Executive. That is why my department has led a significant collaborative work programme across central government and also involving local government, arms-length bodies, the energy industry and other key stakeholders.
The structures put in place include a Government Stakeholders Group, which bring together all departments with a remit for energy policy; the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) and Department for Communities (DfC) are both members of this. Officials from DfI and DfC, along with other departments including the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs and the Department for Infrastructure (DfI), are represented on working groups of relevance to their policy remits. In addition, DfI leads the Transport Working Group for the Energy Strategy.
The success of this collaborative approach is clearly evidenced through the Energy Strategy Policy Options Consultation published at the end of March, which covers the full breadth of energy policy issues across the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018093%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335550","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335550"}},{"id":"335292","reference":"AQW 18027/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-27","answerBy":"2021-05-13","answered":"2021-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the extent to which the Rural Needs Act was considered prior to the decision being made to close Ballyhackett Primary School; (ii) his assessment of how the closure of this school will impact the wider rural community around Castlerock; and (iii) what consideration was given to the current trend of more people moving to rural areas, post-COVID-19, in reaching his decision.","answerText":"The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) confirmed that the statutory requirements of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 were considered. CCMS acknowledged the potential impact on the local community and the possibility of longer travelling distance for some pupils. Alternative options for education provision were considered, but each of the options were rejected as they did not provide sustainable education.\n\nI recognise the impact of a school closure on the wider rural community and appreciate there will be great disappointment at my decision. I wish to emphasise that aim of the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) is to ensure that pupils receive a high quality education in schools that are educationally and financially viable regardless of where they live. Concerns expressed must be balanced against the positive impact of the proposal which would increase opportunities for pupils living in a rural area to have access to a broad and balanced curriculum with transport assistance to alternative schools. My over-riding consideration is the educational well-being of the pupils.\n\nIn relation to people moving to rural areas post COVID-19, I can only say that enrolment at the school continued to fall despite the considerable efforts of the school management team and in 2020/21 there were only 31 pupils.","answerHtml":"The Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS) confirmed that the statutory requirements of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016 were considered. CCMS acknowledged the potential impact on the local community and the possibility of longer travelling distance for some pupils. Alternative options for education provision were considered, but each of the options were rejected as they did not provide sustainable education.
I recognise the impact of a school closure on the wider rural community and appreciate there will be great disappointment at my decision. I wish to emphasise that aim of the Sustainable Schools Policy (SSP) is to ensure that pupils receive a high quality education in schools that are educationally and financially viable regardless of where they live. Concerns expressed must be balanced against the positive impact of the proposal which would increase opportunities for pupils living in a rural area to have access to a broad and balanced curriculum with transport assistance to alternative schools. My over-riding consideration is the educational well-being of the pupils.
In relation to people moving to rural areas post COVID-19, I can only say that enrolment at the school continued to fall despite the considerable efforts of the school management team and in 2020/21 there were only 31 pupils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018027%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335292"}},{"id":"335291","reference":"AQW 18026/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-27","answerBy":"2021-05-13","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail any active and proposed plans to encourage and support commercial fisherman to use more environmentally friendly trawling techniques and reduce by-catch.","answerText":"Northern Ireland was the first part of the UK to develop and adopt highly selective fishing gear to avoid unwanted by-catches of cod, haddock and whiting in the Nephrops (prawns) fishery, the main fishery in the Irish Sea for the local industry. This was a joint approach between DAERA, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and the local fishing industry, which was initiated in 2013. This joint approach continues through the Northern Ireland Gear Trials Programme. DAERA currently provides financial support for undertaking gear trials and the testing of industry identified gear technologies, focused on achieving further reductions in unwanted by-catch.\n\nResearch into highly selective fishing gear and more environmentally friendly fishing methods will continue to be supported by the Department. Current funding is in place until December 2022.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland was the first part of the UK to develop and adopt highly selective fishing gear to avoid unwanted by-catches of cod, haddock and whiting in the Nephrops (prawns) fishery, the main fishery in the Irish Sea for the local industry. This was a joint approach between DAERA, Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) and the local fishing industry, which was initiated in 2013. This joint approach continues through the Northern Ireland Gear Trials Programme. DAERA currently provides financial support for undertaking gear trials and the testing of industry identified gear technologies, focused on achieving further reductions in unwanted by-catch.
Research into highly selective fishing gear and more environmentally friendly fishing methods will continue to be supported by the Department. Current funding is in place until December 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018026%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335291"}},{"id":"335290","reference":"AQW 18025/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-27","answerBy":"2021-05-13","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the (i) number; and (ii) percentage of Civil Service staff who will be (a) offered; and (b) encouraged to work from home after the further easing of lockdown rules.","answerText":"Civil Service employees that are able to carry out their job roles from home or remotely, in line with departmental requirements, will have the opportunity to agree with their line management the best location for them to carry out their work. At this stage we don’t know what the numbers or percentages will be.\n\nIt is understood that there are some operational job roles where working remotely will not be appropriate.","answerHtml":"Civil Service employees that are able to carry out their job roles from home or remotely, in line with departmental requirements, will have the opportunity to agree with their line management the best location for them to carry out their work. At this stage we don’t know what the numbers or percentages will be.
It is understood that there are some operational job roles where working remotely will not be appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018025%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335290"}},{"id":"335289","reference":"AQW 18024/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-27","answerBy":"2021-05-13","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any plans to re-assess and revise Executive policies, post-COVID-19, in order that they reflect our changing society where more people are moving toward rural areas.","answerText":"Good progress has been achieved towards the development of a new Programme for Government (PfG).\n\nA draft Outcomes Framework was consulted on recently and responses are currently being analysed to inform design and content of the final version. This will give strategic direction to a more complete PfG, incorporating an agreed budget and linked to policies and programmes which will be brought forward for Assembly consideration in due course.\n\nIt is important that the new PfG recognises and proactively responds to the needs of a changing society and that it delivers impactful improvements in the things that matter most to people. The focus will be on designing and shaping policies and services in a way that will achieve the best possible outcomes of societal wellbeing.\n\nTo that end, it is intended that the new PfG will be a “live” web-based Programme, with progress being continually monitored to ensure that actions respond to changing needs and new challenges.","answerHtml":"Good progress has been achieved towards the development of a new Programme for Government (PfG).
A draft Outcomes Framework was consulted on recently and responses are currently being analysed to inform design and content of the final version. This will give strategic direction to a more complete PfG, incorporating an agreed budget and linked to policies and programmes which will be brought forward for Assembly consideration in due course.
It is important that the new PfG recognises and proactively responds to the needs of a changing society and that it delivers impactful improvements in the things that matter most to people. The focus will be on designing and shaping policies and services in a way that will achieve the best possible outcomes of societal wellbeing.
To that end, it is intended that the new PfG will be a “live” web-based Programme, with progress being continually monitored to ensure that actions respond to changing needs and new challenges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018024%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335289"}},{"id":"335288","reference":"AQW 18023/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-27","answerBy":"2021-05-13","answered":"2021-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the total area burnt by wildfires, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information.\n\nHowever I can confirm, as I reported in the Assembly on 26 April 2021, that Forest Service staff attended 22 fire incidents in 2020. As a result of those incidents, 70 hectares of forest and over 110 hectares of peatland were burnt.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information.
However I can confirm, as I reported in the Assembly on 26 April 2021, that Forest Service staff attended 22 fire incidents in 2020. As a result of those incidents, 70 hectares of forest and over 110 hectares of peatland were burnt.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2018023%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335288","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335288"}},{"id":"335027","reference":"AQW 17937/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-26","answerBy":"2021-05-12","answered":"2021-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the roll-out of Multi-Disciplinary Teams (MDTs) in the Causeway GP Federation Area; (ii) how many MDTs in this area have social workers; (iii) what plans he has to fund MDTs on a recurrent basis; (iv) how many practitioners have successfully applied for a MDT role and have not been appointed; and;(v) when will MDTs be fully developed.","answerText":"The Primary Care Multi-disciplinary Teams (MDTs) model introduces new physiotherapy, mental health and social work roles to general practice, to work alongside enhanced levels of district nursing and health visiting staff and the existing practice team. It aims to move from a system of treating illness to supporting good physical and mental health, and social wellbeing.\n\nCauseway GP Federation, in partnership with NHSCT, began work to implement the MDT model in July 2019. At the end of March 2021, there were 40.7 new whole time equivalent (WTE) staff supported by the Programme in the Causeway area.\n\nOver 20,000 patients in the Causeway GP Federation area can now benefit from a full MDT team in their local GP practice. All 18 practices have at least the mental health element of the multi-disciplinary team, with 6 practices also having social workers within the expanded practice team.\n\nOverall in the Causeway area, 14 social workers, 9 social work assistants and 3 physiotherapists have been successful at interview to an MDT post, but have not yet been offered a position. All those who successfully applied to the mental health practitioner roles have now been offered posts.\n\nTo date, the rollout of the MDT model has been made possible through utilisation of Transformation funding, this non-recurrent, ring-fenced support has allowed important new initiatives like MDTs to become embedded and, which now need to become sustainable in the long term.\n\nAs we move into the space of rebuilding, whilst also managing the ongoing demands of the pandemic, work must now move at pace to deliver on this commitment to sustainability. The Rebuilding Management Board will progress this issue to ensure that transformation projects have plans in place to enable financial sustainability in 2021/22.\n\nProgramme leads in the Department and the HSCB are currently also working closely with all HSC Trusts and GP Federations in the development of a ‘road map’for future expansion of the model, a process which is expected to be completed before summer 2021. The road map will enable robust planning around the cost and timescale for the rollout of the model to the remainder of Northern Ireland. However, expansion of the model is dependent on the availability of a suitably qualified and experienced workforce, the readiness of the primary care estate and the provision of appropriate funding.","answerHtml":"The Primary Care Multi-disciplinary Teams (MDTs) model introduces new physiotherapy, mental health and social work roles to general practice, to work alongside enhanced levels of district nursing and health visiting staff and the existing practice team. It aims to move from a system of treating illness to supporting good physical and mental health, and social wellbeing.
Causeway GP Federation, in partnership with NHSCT, began work to implement the MDT model in July 2019. At the end of March 2021, there were 40.7 new whole time equivalent (WTE) staff supported by the Programme in the Causeway area.
Over 20,000 patients in the Causeway GP Federation area can now benefit from a full MDT team in their local GP practice. All 18 practices have at least the mental health element of the multi-disciplinary team, with 6 practices also having social workers within the expanded practice team.
Overall in the Causeway area, 14 social workers, 9 social work assistants and 3 physiotherapists have been successful at interview to an MDT post, but have not yet been offered a position. All those who successfully applied to the mental health practitioner roles have now been offered posts.
To date, the rollout of the MDT model has been made possible through utilisation of Transformation funding, this non-recurrent, ring-fenced support has allowed important new initiatives like MDTs to become embedded and, which now need to become sustainable in the long term.
As we move into the space of rebuilding, whilst also managing the ongoing demands of the pandemic, work must now move at pace to deliver on this commitment to sustainability. The Rebuilding Management Board will progress this issue to ensure that transformation projects have plans in place to enable financial sustainability in 2021/22.
Programme leads in the Department and the HSCB are currently also working closely with all HSC Trusts and GP Federations in the development of a ‘road map’for future expansion of the model, a process which is expected to be completed before summer 2021. The road map will enable robust planning around the cost and timescale for the rollout of the model to the remainder of Northern Ireland. However, expansion of the model is dependent on the availability of a suitably qualified and experienced workforce, the readiness of the primary care estate and the provision of appropriate funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017937%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335027","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335027"}},{"id":"335026","reference":"AQW 17936/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-26","answerBy":"2021-05-12","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of people employed by the meat and dairy industry, broken down by job type.","answerText":"In 2019, the Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES) estimated that there were 15,477 employee jobs in those sectors aligned to the meat and dairy industry. A profile of these employee jobs, by gender and working pattern, is detailed in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1: Employee jobs in meat and dairy industry\n\nSector\tMale\tFemale\tTotal\nFull-time\tPart-time\tTotal\tFull-time\tPart-time\tTotal\nProcessing and preserving of meat\t3,111\t66\t3,177\t768\t33\t801\t3,978\nProcessing and preserving of poultry meat\t2,547\t115\t2,662\t1,649\t*\t*\t*\nProduction of meat and poultry meat products\t920\t65\t986\t375\t*\t*\t*\nLiquid milk and cream production\t411\t6\t417\t46\t12\t58\t475\nButter and cheese production\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\nManufacture of other milk products\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\t*\nManufacture of ice cream\t48\t5\t53\t35\t5\t40\t93\nWholesale of live animals\t17\t94\t111\t7\t38\t45\t156\nWholesale of meat and meat products\t790\t46\t836\t379\t59\t438\t1,274\nWholesale of dairy products, eggs and edible oils and fats\t430\t25\t455\t254\t32\t286\t741\nRetail sale of meat and meat products in specialised stores\t897\t241\t1,138\t238\t327\t565\t1,703\nTotal\t9,956\t684\t10,701\t3,911\t865\t4,756\t15,477\n\nData have been suppressed for disclosure purposes\n\nIn 2017, DAERA’s Migrant Labour and Trade Enquiry estimated that there were 24,328 employees employed in the food and drinks processing sector. A profile of the occupation of all employees in this sector is detailed in Table 2 below.\n\nTable 2: Occupation profile of food and drinks processing sector\n\nOccupation\t% of all employees\nManagers, Directors and senior officials\t6.2%\nAdministrative and secretarial occupations\t9.6%\nElementary occupations (Unskilled, miscellaneous or other occupations)\t5.1%\nProcess, plant and machine operatives\t66.5%\nSales and customer service occupations\t4.3%\nCaring, Leisure and other service occupations\t0.5%\nSkilled trades occupations\t4.1%\nAssociate professional and technical occupations\t3.1%\nProfessional occupations\t0.7%\nTotal\t100%","answerHtml":"In 2019, the Business Register and Employment Survey (BRES) estimated that there were 15,477 employee jobs in those sectors aligned to the meat and dairy industry. A profile of these employee jobs, by gender and working pattern, is detailed in Table 1 below.
Table 1: Employee jobs in meat and dairy industry
| Sector | Male | Female | Total | ||||
| Full-time | Part-time | Total | Full-time | Part-time | Total | ||
| Processing and preserving of meat | 3,111 | 66 | 3,177 | 768 | 33 | 801 | 3,978 |
| Processing and preserving of poultry meat | 2,547 | 115 | 2,662 | 1,649 | * | * | * |
| Production of meat and poultry meat products | 920 | 65 | 986 | 375 | * | * | * |
| Liquid milk and cream production | 411 | 6 | 417 | 46 | 12 | 58 | 475 |
| Butter and cheese production | * | * | * | * | * | * | * |
| Manufacture of other milk products | * | * | * | * | * | * | * |
| Manufacture of ice cream | 48 | 5 | 53 | 35 | 5 | 40 | 93 |
| Wholesale of live animals | 17 | 94 | 111 | 7 | 38 | 45 | 156 |
| Wholesale of meat and meat products | 790 | 46 | 836 | 379 | 59 | 438 | 1,274 |
| Wholesale of dairy products, eggs and edible oils and fats | 430 | 25 | 455 | 254 | 32 | 286 | 741 |
| Retail sale of meat and meat products in specialised stores | 897 | 241 | 1,138 | 238 | 327 | 565 | 1,703 |
| Total | 9,956 | 684 | 10,701 | 3,911 | 865 | 4,756 | 15,477 |
Data have been suppressed for disclosure purposes
In 2017, DAERA’s Migrant Labour and Trade Enquiry estimated that there were 24,328 employees employed in the food and drinks processing sector. A profile of the occupation of all employees in this sector is detailed in Table 2 below.
Table 2: Occupation profile of food and drinks processing sector
| Occupation | % of all employees |
| Managers, Directors and senior officials | 6.2% |
| Administrative and secretarial occupations | 9.6% |
| Elementary occupations (Unskilled, miscellaneous or other occupations) | 5.1% |
| Process, plant and machine operatives | 66.5% |
| Sales and customer service occupations | 4.3% |
| Caring, Leisure and other service occupations | 0.5% |
| Skilled trades occupations | 4.1% |
| Associate professional and technical occupations | 3.1% |
| Professional occupations | 0.7% |
| Total | 100% |
There are two types of farm diversification for which my Department has brought forward investment support:
Diversification into a different farming activity
Diversification into a non-farming activity
Diversification into a different farming activity
The Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital (FBIS-C) under the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 (NIRDP) is aimed at improving the competitiveness and sustainability of the farming industry. The scheme has two separate tiers: Tier 1 is designed to support small scale investments that will improve the sustainability of farm businesses through the purchase of equipment and machinery, costing from £5,000 to £30,000, from a list of eligible items.
Tier 2 is designed to support larger investments that will enable transformational change in farm businesses across all sectors, which may include diversification into a different farming activity, through projects costing over £30,000 (subject to an overall grant limit of £250,000).
While the FBIS-Capital scheme is currently closed for applications, I am considering what further capital support can be provided under both tiers of the scheme, and within the Future Agricultural Policy Framework for Northern Ireland, which will be launched in the coming months.
Financial support may be available for farm diversification projects from the Agri-Food Co-operation Scheme, also part of the NIRDP, where a farmer would be considering working with others to progress a project. The Agri-Food Co-operation Scheme can provide up to £30,500 of funding along with 50 facilitation days to assist groups of farmers and food producers to progress a new project collaboratively.
Eligible support measures as part of this scheme include Specialist Mentoring, Training, Business Tools, Study Tours and Co-operation Support. The scheme is delivered on behalf of DAERA by Countryside Services Ltd; further details are available on the Countryside Service Ltd website at www.countrysideservices.com/agri-food-co-operation-scheme/
Diversification into a non-farming activity
The LEADER priority (six) of the NIRDP made investment support available under the Rural Business Investment scheme to assist all rural businesses, including farms, to diversify into a non-farming activity. This scheme is delivered by Local Action Groups (LAGs) across the council areas in Northern Ireland. All LAGs fully allocated their funding in order to deliver projects by 2020.
I have not had any specific conversations with farmers and other sectors in relation to diversification. However, I am aware of the interest in, and benefits which can arise from, business diversification.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017935%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=335025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=335025"}},{"id":"334861","reference":"AQW 17856/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-23","answerBy":"2021-05-11","answered":"2021-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for an update on pet passports as required for travel between GB and NI, including details involved in their enforcement on 1 July; and (ii) how the public will be made aware of the rules.","answerText":"As a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland (NI) Protocol, the European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013), which details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pet dogs between or into EU Member States, continues to apply in NI, following the end of the transition phase. Therefore, there are now additional requirements for pet travel from Great Britain (GB) to NI, including the need for appropriate documentation, rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment.\n\nI am acutely aware of the impact of, what I consider to be, completely unnecessary new measures on those travelling within the United Kingdom (UK).\n\nAfter engaging with my officials to find potential flexibilities, and considering pet owners have not had time to familiarise themselves with the new rules, I confirmed that DAERA will delay the introduction of any checks on pet travel from GB to NI until 1 July 2021. As a result, there will be no routine checks until then.\n\nI have written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, and to the European Commission, highlighting these issues, and particularly the entirely unjustified requirements for rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment, given that both the UK and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) are considered free from both diseases.\n\nI have also requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between GB, NI and the RoI. A joint UK/NI/RoI working group has now been established to consider where flexibilities can be achieved, and I can advise that this group has met on a number of occasions and will continue to engage on these issues.\n\nThis matter has also now been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission seeking urgent resolution to the matters. The Commission has responded and discussions are ongoing.\n\nMy Department is currently considering its next steps with regards to any enforcement of compliance with the European Union’s requirements for pet travel from GB to NI from 1st July, if required. The present position is set out in the Department’s Compliance protocol, available https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/compliance-protocol-sanitary-phytosanitary-controls-and-point-entry-marketing-standards-checks-gb-ni. However, it is my hope that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found before then, from the discussions and processes outlined above, which will be to the benefit of all those travelling with pets into NI from GB from 1st July on. In addition, I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.\n\nIn order to keep the general public updated, any progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, in addition to any changes to the current enforcement of checks, information will be published on the DAERA website https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets, on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.","answerHtml":"As a result of the Withdrawal Agreement and the Northern Ireland (NI) Protocol, the European Union (EU) Pet Travel Regulation (Regulation (EU) 576/2013), which details the documentary, health and compliance check requirements for the travel of pet dogs between or into EU Member States, continues to apply in NI, following the end of the transition phase. Therefore, there are now additional requirements for pet travel from Great Britain (GB) to NI, including the need for appropriate documentation, rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment.
I am acutely aware of the impact of, what I consider to be, completely unnecessary new measures on those travelling within the United Kingdom (UK).
After engaging with my officials to find potential flexibilities, and considering pet owners have not had time to familiarise themselves with the new rules, I confirmed that DAERA will delay the introduction of any checks on pet travel from GB to NI until 1 July 2021. As a result, there will be no routine checks until then.
I have written to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, George Eustice MP, and to the European Commission, highlighting these issues, and particularly the entirely unjustified requirements for rabies vaccination and tapeworm treatment, given that both the UK and the Republic of Ireland (RoI) are considered free from both diseases.
I have also requested that urgent consideration be given to the introduction of a ‘Common Travel Area’ for pets travelling between GB, NI and the RoI. A joint UK/NI/RoI working group has now been established to consider where flexibilities can be achieved, and I can advise that this group has met on a number of occasions and will continue to engage on these issues.
This matter has also now been escalated by the UK Government to the European Commission seeking urgent resolution to the matters. The Commission has responded and discussions are ongoing.
My Department is currently considering its next steps with regards to any enforcement of compliance with the European Union’s requirements for pet travel from GB to NI from 1st July, if required. The present position is set out in the Department’s Compliance protocol, available https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/publications/compliance-protocol-sanitary-phytosanitary-controls-and-point-entry-marketing-standards-checks-gb-ni. However, it is my hope that sensible and pragmatic solutions can be found before then, from the discussions and processes outlined above, which will be to the benefit of all those travelling with pets into NI from GB from 1st July on. In addition, I will continue engagement with Ministerial colleagues to urgently seek derogations where possible from these unnecessary additional requirements.
In order to keep the general public updated, any progress made or flexibilities agreed in respect of the additional requirements, in addition to any changes to the current enforcement of checks, information will be published on the DAERA website https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/travelling-pets, on the DAERA Frequently Asked Questions document https://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/articles/qas-pet-travel-1-january-2021and communicated widely through our usual Departmental media channels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017856%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334861"}},{"id":"334860","reference":"AQW 17855/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-23","answerBy":"2021-05-11","answered":"2021-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail what steps they are taking to raise the NI-GB issues of (i) pet passports; (ii) trade; and (iii) other issues with the UK and EU governments.","answerText":"We continue to raise issues and concerns associated with the end of EU Exit Transition period with both the UK Government and the EU at both Ministerial and official level on a regular basis, to ensure an understanding of the impact such issues are having on our citizens and businesses.","answerHtml":"We continue to raise issues and concerns associated with the end of EU Exit Transition period with both the UK Government and the EU at both Ministerial and official level on a regular basis, to ensure an understanding of the impact such issues are having on our citizens and businesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017855%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334860"}},{"id":"334859","reference":"AQW 17854/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-23","answerBy":"2021-05-11","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the amount of funding provided for youth workers in Coleraine in each of the last five years.","answerText":"My Department has provided funding through the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund for youth workers in Coleraine in each of the last five years as noted in the table below.\n\nProject\t20/21\t19/20\t18/19\t17/18\t16/17\nFocus on Family - Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project\t£60,150.68\t£58,790.69\t£54,690.62\t£55,223.83\t£58,420.08","answerHtml":"My Department has provided funding through the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund for youth workers in Coleraine in each of the last five years as noted in the table below.
| Project | 20/21 | 19/20 | 18/19 | 17/18 | 16/17 |
| Focus on Family - Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project | £60,150.68 | £58,790.69 | £54,690.62 | £55,223.83 | £58,420.08 |
Northern Ireland Cancer Registry (NICR) advise that between 2014 and 2018, an average of 246 people in Northern Ireland were diagnosed with oral cancer annually. Many are diagnosed at a late stage, with 98 people dying annually from the disease. During the pandemic, access to dental services, combined with self-isolation for a significant number of the population may also have contributed to an increase in late presentations. Prior to the pandemic, NICR predicted that the number of cases will double by 2035, with cases rising particularly among the younger population.
In 2020 Departmental officials established November as ‘Mouth Cancer month’ and ran awareness campaigns encouraging individuals to be aware of the early signs of oral cancer, visit their dentist regularly and seek help, should they have any concerns.
In addition it is envisaged that oral cancer recommendations will be included in the upcoming Cancer Strategy, identifying primary school education sessions and routine dentist check-ups as important roles as key prevention tools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017853%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334858"}},{"id":"334857","reference":"AQW 17852/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-23","answerBy":"2021-05-11","answered":"2021-12-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the public messaging campaigns he has instigated with a view to encouraging more people to regularly visit their dentist.","answerText":"The importance of regular visits to a dentist for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues cannot be understated. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant and continuing effect on capacity within General Dental Services (GDS) since April 2020, so the focus has been on urgent and emergency treatment rather than regular visits by patients with good oral health.\n\nDuring the pandemic, public messaging has focused on ensuring that patients are aware of the challenges facing dental practices, how they should engage with practices, as well as some messaging around our zero tolerance approach to any abuse directed towards healthcare staff.\n\nConsideration will also be given to public messaging campaigns for dental health, through the Oral Health Options Groups that are currently being progressed.","answerHtml":"The importance of regular visits to a dentist for maintaining good oral health and preventing dental issues cannot be understated. However, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant and continuing effect on capacity within General Dental Services (GDS) since April 2020, so the focus has been on urgent and emergency treatment rather than regular visits by patients with good oral health.
During the pandemic, public messaging has focused on ensuring that patients are aware of the challenges facing dental practices, how they should engage with practices, as well as some messaging around our zero tolerance approach to any abuse directed towards healthcare staff.
Consideration will also be given to public messaging campaigns for dental health, through the Oral Health Options Groups that are currently being progressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017852%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334857"}},{"id":"334724","reference":"AQW 17789/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-22","answerBy":"2021-05-10","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of (i) nurses; and (ii) midwifes that have retired or left the Health Service, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"Information on the number of registered nurses and midwives leaving Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations in each of the last five years is provided in the table below. The information presented has been calculated by comparing snapshots of directly employed HSC staff in post at 31 March each year, for example those who appeared on the March 2019 dataset but not March 2020 were classed as leavers in 2019/20. Figures will include staff who have left HSC organisations due to retirement or for other reasons in a particular year, however not all leavers may be permanent as some may re-join HSC again at a later date. In addition these leavers from HSC organisations could be taking up employment in another part of the wider health & social care system e.g. general practice or nursing home care. Figures presented may exclude some short-term staff who were not captured on one or both datasets.\n\nRegistered Nursing & Midwifery Staff Leaving HSC organisations in each year\n\nYear\tRegistered Nurses\tRegistered Midwives\n2015/16\t783\t77\n2016/17\t929\t96\n2017/18\t1,111\t72\n2018/19\t1,049\t90\n2019/20\t1,043\t57\n\nSource: Human Resources, Payroll, Travel & Subsistence (HRPTS) system","answerHtml":"Information on the number of registered nurses and midwives leaving Health and Social Care (HSC) organisations in each of the last five years is provided in the table below. The information presented has been calculated by comparing snapshots of directly employed HSC staff in post at 31 March each year, for example those who appeared on the March 2019 dataset but not March 2020 were classed as leavers in 2019/20. Figures will include staff who have left HSC organisations due to retirement or for other reasons in a particular year, however not all leavers may be permanent as some may re-join HSC again at a later date. In addition these leavers from HSC organisations could be taking up employment in another part of the wider health & social care system e.g. general practice or nursing home care. Figures presented may exclude some short-term staff who were not captured on one or both datasets.
Registered Nursing & Midwifery Staff Leaving HSC organisations in each year
| Year | Registered Nurses | Registered Midwives |
| 2015/16 | 783 | 77 |
| 2016/17 | 929 | 96 |
| 2017/18 | 1,111 | 72 |
| 2018/19 | 1,049 | 90 |
| 2019/20 | 1,043 | 57 |
Source: Human Resources, Payroll, Travel & Subsistence (HRPTS) system
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017789%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334724"}},{"id":"334723","reference":"AQW 17788/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-22","answerBy":"2021-05-10","answered":"2021-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the support given to, and the conversations had with, local councils and community and voluntary environmental groups regarding litter and pollution clean-ups.","answerText":"DAERA uses a combined approach of legislation, education & awareness, and enforcement to tackle litter. My Department works closely with Councils & environmental NGOs to develop and support educational & promotional campaigns aimed at achieving behavioural change. The Environment Fund directly supports ‘Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful’ (KNIB) which runs a number of programmes, including: ‘Eco-Schools’; ‘Live Here, Love Here’; ‘Big Spring Clean; & ‘Adopt-A-Spot’ projects.\n\nOver £3m has been awarded to KNIB since 2007/8 with additional current funding of over £1m to further support its campaigns. These make environmental awareness & action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of our communities, and focus on practical, positive environmental behavioural change.\n\nDAERA supports the ‘Big Spring Clean,’ this is NI's largest community clean-up campaign. To date, 100 Big Spring Clean kits have been provided to individuals organising clean-ups during April & May of this year. Support has also been provided with plans to host beach and neighbourhood cleans with local residents and businesses, within COVID-19 guidelines, in the near future.\n\nMy Department also funds and supports the Adopt-A-Spot programme. At present, there are 392 active Adopt-A-Spots across Northern Ireland, with 80 groups on the waiting list for kits due to exceptionally high demand this year. These kits offer practical support to volunteer groups on their clean up journeys, and KNIB is available to provide advice to groups in regards to clean-up events.\n\nSupported by the funding provided by my Department, KNIB regularly liaises with Councils through the ‘Live Here, Love Here’ (LHLH) initiative. This includes regular interaction to organise waste material collections; promoting media campaigns throughout 10 council areas to address litter issues; increasing awareness of littering Fixed Penalty Notices; and celebrating local initiatives, such as through the “Tales Of The Times” virtual celebration event held in March.\n\nAn additional media campaign addressing on-the-go, PPE and beauty spot littering was developed and aired last July as the first lockdown restrictions were easing and litter was becoming an obvious issue once again.\n\nThis year, through the Tackling Plastics NI project funded by my Department, coastal schools will receive focused education and help in receiving equipment to prevent litter and pollution at our coasts and in our waterways.\n\nDAERA also provides funding to KNIB to produce the annual Marine Litter Report which contains counts of litter items, litter types and geographical breakdown of the litter items. DAERA’s Marine Division produced NI’s first Marine Litter Strategy in 2013, which is delivered through a coalition of partners.\n\nMy Department appointed KNIB to gather data from all councils on their use of fixed penalty notices for both litter and dog fouling offences. Each council received correspondence requesting feedback on the effectiveness of the current powers and fines. In addition, several councils submitted additional correspondence on these issues directly to me. My officials are reviewing this data to inform the Department’s review of the current fixed penalty notice regime which will feed into our first Environment Strategy, which is due to be consulted upon later this year.\n\nThe Department has also issued a series of communications, delivered by the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), to support waste management and recycling behaviours and to combat fly-tipping and littering. A flyer was sent to every household in Northern Ireland with details of how to manage waste and recycling during the Covid-19 crisis. There were also radio adverts on local stations and a range of social media posts on various platforms highlighting the problems of fly-tipping, littering and illegal waste dumping.\n\nAt the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic, I recognised that continuation of council household waste management services was necessary to safeguard human health and protect the environment. There was, and remains, a need to ensure, that as far as possible, public services continue in a safe and responsible manner. The funding secured from the Executive in this financial year has resulted in a total package to all Councils worth £15.2m to assist with the additional waste costs which have arisen during the pandemic. My Department has worked closely with Council officials, throughout the pandemic, to distribute this allocation across the eleven councils – a significant element of which will assist with tackling additional litter and fly-tipping.\n\nOf course we need to continue extensive collaboration with local councils and other stakeholders on waste management matters to build upon the public’s impressive approach to recycling in recent years. The current £23 million Household Waste Recycling Collaborative Change Programme financially supports local councils to further increase recycling rates and improve the quality of recycling. To date, I have made £4.826m available for nine projects. These will not only boost the quality and economic value of recycling but also encourage responsible waste management practices, helping to reduce incidents of littering and fly-tipping.","answerHtml":"DAERA uses a combined approach of legislation, education & awareness, and enforcement to tackle litter. My Department works closely with Councils & environmental NGOs to develop and support educational & promotional campaigns aimed at achieving behavioural change. The Environment Fund directly supports ‘Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful’ (KNIB) which runs a number of programmes, including: ‘Eco-Schools’; ‘Live Here, Love Here’; ‘Big Spring Clean; & ‘Adopt-A-Spot’ projects.
Over £3m has been awarded to KNIB since 2007/8 with additional current funding of over £1m to further support its campaigns. These make environmental awareness & action an intrinsic part of the life and ethos of our communities, and focus on practical, positive environmental behavioural change.
DAERA supports the ‘Big Spring Clean,’ this is NI's largest community clean-up campaign. To date, 100 Big Spring Clean kits have been provided to individuals organising clean-ups during April & May of this year. Support has also been provided with plans to host beach and neighbourhood cleans with local residents and businesses, within COVID-19 guidelines, in the near future.
My Department also funds and supports the Adopt-A-Spot programme. At present, there are 392 active Adopt-A-Spots across Northern Ireland, with 80 groups on the waiting list for kits due to exceptionally high demand this year. These kits offer practical support to volunteer groups on their clean up journeys, and KNIB is available to provide advice to groups in regards to clean-up events.
Supported by the funding provided by my Department, KNIB regularly liaises with Councils through the ‘Live Here, Love Here’ (LHLH) initiative. This includes regular interaction to organise waste material collections; promoting media campaigns throughout 10 council areas to address litter issues; increasing awareness of littering Fixed Penalty Notices; and celebrating local initiatives, such as through the “Tales Of The Times” virtual celebration event held in March.
An additional media campaign addressing on-the-go, PPE and beauty spot littering was developed and aired last July as the first lockdown restrictions were easing and litter was becoming an obvious issue once again.
This year, through the Tackling Plastics NI project funded by my Department, coastal schools will receive focused education and help in receiving equipment to prevent litter and pollution at our coasts and in our waterways.
DAERA also provides funding to KNIB to produce the annual Marine Litter Report which contains counts of litter items, litter types and geographical breakdown of the litter items. DAERA’s Marine Division produced NI’s first Marine Litter Strategy in 2013, which is delivered through a coalition of partners.
My Department appointed KNIB to gather data from all councils on their use of fixed penalty notices for both litter and dog fouling offences. Each council received correspondence requesting feedback on the effectiveness of the current powers and fines. In addition, several councils submitted additional correspondence on these issues directly to me. My officials are reviewing this data to inform the Department’s review of the current fixed penalty notice regime which will feed into our first Environment Strategy, which is due to be consulted upon later this year.
The Department has also issued a series of communications, delivered by the Waste & Resources Action Programme (WRAP), to support waste management and recycling behaviours and to combat fly-tipping and littering. A flyer was sent to every household in Northern Ireland with details of how to manage waste and recycling during the Covid-19 crisis. There were also radio adverts on local stations and a range of social media posts on various platforms highlighting the problems of fly-tipping, littering and illegal waste dumping.
At the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic, I recognised that continuation of council household waste management services was necessary to safeguard human health and protect the environment. There was, and remains, a need to ensure, that as far as possible, public services continue in a safe and responsible manner. The funding secured from the Executive in this financial year has resulted in a total package to all Councils worth £15.2m to assist with the additional waste costs which have arisen during the pandemic. My Department has worked closely with Council officials, throughout the pandemic, to distribute this allocation across the eleven councils – a significant element of which will assist with tackling additional litter and fly-tipping.
Of course we need to continue extensive collaboration with local councils and other stakeholders on waste management matters to build upon the public’s impressive approach to recycling in recent years. The current £23 million Household Waste Recycling Collaborative Change Programme financially supports local councils to further increase recycling rates and improve the quality of recycling. To date, I have made £4.826m available for nine projects. These will not only boost the quality and economic value of recycling but also encourage responsible waste management practices, helping to reduce incidents of littering and fly-tipping.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017788%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334723"}},{"id":"334722","reference":"AQW 17787/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-22","answerBy":"2021-05-10","answered":"2021-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the reasons for using a community/voluntary organisation to administer the Carers Support Fund; (ii) why payments will not be made similarly to the COVID-19 Recognition Payment for Health and Social Care Trust workers; and (iii) where the money will come from to pay the associated administration costs of the scheme.","answerText":"The Support for Carers’ Fund will be managed on the Department’s behalf by an Intermediary Funding Body (Community Foundation NI) who has the expertise and resources to operate such a grant funding programme. Community Foundation NI has a proven track record as an Intermediary Funding Body operating within Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Support for Carers’ Fund has been established with the aim of providing funds to charitable organisations working with and for carers to deliver agreed outcomes. The Fund will not provide for cash sums to be paid to individuals, and therefore has no links to the recognition payment to health and social care staff.\n\nThe administration costs are contained within the overall amount allocated to the Fund. In this case a fee of £302k will be paid to Community Foundation NI from the overall Fund value of £4.4m.","answerHtml":"The Support for Carers’ Fund will be managed on the Department’s behalf by an Intermediary Funding Body (Community Foundation NI) who has the expertise and resources to operate such a grant funding programme. Community Foundation NI has a proven track record as an Intermediary Funding Body operating within Northern Ireland.
The Support for Carers’ Fund has been established with the aim of providing funds to charitable organisations working with and for carers to deliver agreed outcomes. The Fund will not provide for cash sums to be paid to individuals, and therefore has no links to the recognition payment to health and social care staff.
The administration costs are contained within the overall amount allocated to the Fund. In this case a fee of £302k will be paid to Community Foundation NI from the overall Fund value of £4.4m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017787%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334722"}},{"id":"334721","reference":"AQW 17786/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-22","answerBy":"2021-05-10","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the mechanisms in place to ensure (i) the organisation in charge of distributing money from the Carers Support Fund correctly determines which applicants should receive funding; (ii) that those carers not affiliated with a community and voluntary group will receive funds; (iii) the personal data of applicants for the fund is protected; and (iv) that those who need the money from the fund receive it.","answerText":"The Support for Carers’ Fund has been established with the aim of providing funds to charitable organisations who can deliver the following outcomes in support of carers:\n\na) Enhanced provision of and access to practical supports and help for carers.\n\nb) Improved access to and availability of advice services for carers, including support available through new technologies.\n\nc) Enhanced skills of carers to advocate for the needs of both themselves and the person they care for.\n\nd) Support improved physical and mental health and wellbeing of carers.\n\ne) Enhanced ability for carers to lead their own lives and enjoy a work/life balance.\n\nf) Increased capacity to advocate for and advance carers’ issues with Government and statutory bodies.\n\ng) Raised awareness of the contribution of carers.\n\nh) Improved evidence base on carers to support and inform service provision, and Government strategy.\n\nThe Fund will be open to community and voluntary sector organisations with charitable purposes offering support to carers and operating within Northern Ireland. The Fund will not provide for cash sums to be paid to individuals.\n\nThe Community Foundation NI (CFNI), who will manage the Fund on the Department’s behalf, have begun work to develop the Fund and ensure that when it opens for applications it will be effective in reaching eligible organisations and encouraging applications which can deliver on the above outcomes. The organisation is compliant with all the necessary data protection legislation.\n\nCommunity Foundation NI will engage with carers and those working at the community level to ensure funding reaches the areas of need and to encourage projects.","answerHtml":"The Support for Carers’ Fund has been established with the aim of providing funds to charitable organisations who can deliver the following outcomes in support of carers:
a) Enhanced provision of and access to practical supports and help for carers.
b) Improved access to and availability of advice services for carers, including support available through new technologies.
c) Enhanced skills of carers to advocate for the needs of both themselves and the person they care for.
d) Support improved physical and mental health and wellbeing of carers.
e) Enhanced ability for carers to lead their own lives and enjoy a work/life balance.
f) Increased capacity to advocate for and advance carers’ issues with Government and statutory bodies.
g) Raised awareness of the contribution of carers.
h) Improved evidence base on carers to support and inform service provision, and Government strategy.
The Fund will be open to community and voluntary sector organisations with charitable purposes offering support to carers and operating within Northern Ireland. The Fund will not provide for cash sums to be paid to individuals.
The Community Foundation NI (CFNI), who will manage the Fund on the Department’s behalf, have begun work to develop the Fund and ensure that when it opens for applications it will be effective in reaching eligible organisations and encouraging applications which can deliver on the above outcomes. The organisation is compliant with all the necessary data protection legislation.
Community Foundation NI will engage with carers and those working at the community level to ensure funding reaches the areas of need and to encourage projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017786%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334721","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334721"}},{"id":"334720","reference":"AQW 17785/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-22","answerBy":"2021-05-10","answered":"2021-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the legislation and accompanying regulations that set the minimum age limit for the purchase of electronic cigarettes in Northern Ireland; and (ii) the dates on which they came into force.","answerText":"The Department included provisions in the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 to introduce powers to prohibit the sale of nicotine products, including electronic cigarettes, to under eighteens. This includes prohibiting adults from purchasing these products on behalf of children, known as proxy purchasing. The Act received Royal Assent on 12 May 2016.\n\nDraft regulations were consulted on in 2017 but were unable to be progressed in the absence of an Executive and Assembly. Since the return of the Assembly in 2020, my Department has been dealing with a considerable number of issues relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. This has had significant staffing implications, both for my Department and for the NICS legal resource which is required for clearance of the draft regulations. It is my intention to progress these regulations at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"The Department included provisions in the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 to introduce powers to prohibit the sale of nicotine products, including electronic cigarettes, to under eighteens. This includes prohibiting adults from purchasing these products on behalf of children, known as proxy purchasing. The Act received Royal Assent on 12 May 2016.
Draft regulations were consulted on in 2017 but were unable to be progressed in the absence of an Executive and Assembly. Since the return of the Assembly in 2020, my Department has been dealing with a considerable number of issues relating to the COVID-19 pandemic. This has had significant staffing implications, both for my Department and for the NICS legal resource which is required for clearance of the draft regulations. It is my intention to progress these regulations at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017785%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334720"}},{"id":"344849","reference":"AQO 1966/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-22","answerBy":"2021-05-04","answered":"2021-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the implementation of New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"The New Decade, New Approach document sets out an ambitious package of measures covering a broad range of social, economic and cultural issues, and it is important we deliver on all of them.\n\nWhilst the Executive’s priorities recently have been focused on managing the COVID-19 pandemic and charting the path for recovery, we are committed to delivering NDNA in its entirety, and excellent progress is already been made including, for example, in relation to:\n\nsecuring 900 extra nursing and midwifery undergraduate places;\n\npublishing a Mental health Action Plan;\n\nestablishing a Graduate Entry Medical School;\n\nachieving parity in financial support to victims of contaminated blood with those in England;\n\npreparing for an independent review of education provision;\n\nestablishing an expert group to help tackle persistent educational underachievement;\n\ndelivering committal reform;\n\nreforming licensing laws;\n\ndeveloping an anti-poverty strategy;\n\ndeveloping a strategic approach to climate change; and\n\nproviding support for victims and survivors of historical abuse.\n\nMoving forward the Executive will have the opportunity to consider the totality of the proposals in the context of the ongoing work to bring forward a new Programme for Government during this Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"The New Decade, New Approach document sets out an ambitious package of measures covering a broad range of social, economic and cultural issues, and it is important we deliver on all of them.
Whilst the Executive’s priorities recently have been focused on managing the COVID-19 pandemic and charting the path for recovery, we are committed to delivering NDNA in its entirety, and excellent progress is already been made including, for example, in relation to:
securing 900 extra nursing and midwifery undergraduate places;
publishing a Mental health Action Plan;
establishing a Graduate Entry Medical School;
achieving parity in financial support to victims of contaminated blood with those in England;
preparing for an independent review of education provision;
establishing an expert group to help tackle persistent educational underachievement;
delivering committal reform;
reforming licensing laws;
developing an anti-poverty strategy;
developing a strategic approach to climate change; and
providing support for victims and survivors of historical abuse.
Moving forward the Executive will have the opportunity to consider the totality of the proposals in the context of the ongoing work to bring forward a new Programme for Government during this Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201966%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=344849","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=344849"}},{"id":"334599","reference":"AQW 17703/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how much of the £17.6m COVID-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme has been invested in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Limavady; (iii) Garvagh; (iv) Kilrea; and (v) Dungiven.","answerText":"The Department for Communities, in collaboration with DAERA and DfI, has led the delivery of the £19.3m Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme across all Council areas. Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, which covers all of the towns you have listed, has received a total allocation of £1.45m broken down as follows: DfC £738k capital and £41k revenue; DAERA £276k capital; and DfI £395k capital.\n\nFunding was provided to support revitalisation plans that had been developed by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in conjunction with key stakeholders, and bespoke to needs identified in their Council area.\n\nIt is not possible to provide a breakdown of how much has been invested specifically in Coleraine, Limavady, Garvagh, Kilrea and Dungiven at this time, as Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is still processing grant applications received and is finalising the delivery of a range of initiatives across the Borough.","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities, in collaboration with DAERA and DfI, has led the delivery of the £19.3m Covid-19 Recovery Revitalisation Programme across all Council areas. Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council, which covers all of the towns you have listed, has received a total allocation of £1.45m broken down as follows: DfC £738k capital and £41k revenue; DAERA £276k capital; and DfI £395k capital.
Funding was provided to support revitalisation plans that had been developed by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council in conjunction with key stakeholders, and bespoke to needs identified in their Council area.
It is not possible to provide a breakdown of how much has been invested specifically in Coleraine, Limavady, Garvagh, Kilrea and Dungiven at this time, as Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council is still processing grant applications received and is finalising the delivery of a range of initiatives across the Borough.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017703%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334599","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334599"}},{"id":"334598","reference":"AQW 17702/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to outline (i) the steps she has taken to address the rising number of children living in both relative and absolute poverty; (ii) her assessment of this trend; and (iii) the conversations she has had with other bodies and Executive Ministers in relation to addressing child poverty.","answerText":"In order to ensure that government continues to work collectively to tackle the issues faced by children and families impacted by poverty the Executive’s current Child Poverty Strategy, has been extended to May 2022. The most recent Child Poverty Annual Report, for 2019/20, was published on the Department for Communities website in September 2020. It is planned that the Child Poverty Annual Report for 2020/21 will be published in the coming weeks.\n\nAn Executive Anti-Poverty Strategy is currently being developed by my Department. It is proposed that the Executive’s actions to address child poverty will be contained within the new Anti-Poverty Strategy. The Anti-Poverty Strategy is being developed using a co-design approach with input from key stakeholders and Executive departments. A Ministerial Steering Group will meet at key points in the development of the Strategy to provide an opportunity for Executive colleagues to discuss progress and agree the way forward. The first Ministerial Steering Group meeting took place on 14 April.\n\nWork to develop the Strategy is continuing at pace, with a public consultation exercise scheduled for later in the year. Further information on the co-design process and timetable can be found at: Social Inclusion Strategies Department for Communities (communities-ni.gov.uk).","answerHtml":"In order to ensure that government continues to work collectively to tackle the issues faced by children and families impacted by poverty the Executive’s current Child Poverty Strategy, has been extended to May 2022. The most recent Child Poverty Annual Report, for 2019/20, was published on the Department for Communities website in September 2020. It is planned that the Child Poverty Annual Report for 2020/21 will be published in the coming weeks.
An Executive Anti-Poverty Strategy is currently being developed by my Department. It is proposed that the Executive’s actions to address child poverty will be contained within the new Anti-Poverty Strategy. The Anti-Poverty Strategy is being developed using a co-design approach with input from key stakeholders and Executive departments. A Ministerial Steering Group will meet at key points in the development of the Strategy to provide an opportunity for Executive colleagues to discuss progress and agree the way forward. The first Ministerial Steering Group meeting took place on 14 April.
Work to develop the Strategy is continuing at pace, with a public consultation exercise scheduled for later in the year. Further information on the co-design process and timetable can be found at: Social Inclusion Strategies Department for Communities (communities-ni.gov.uk).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017702%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334598","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334598"}},{"id":"334597","reference":"AQW 17701/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail any prospective areas and sites being considered to meet the demand for social housing in East Londonderry.","answerText":"There are currently 126 new social housing units under construction in the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency. I have included details of these in Table 1 below.\n\nA total of 95 units are currently programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP 2021/22 – 2022/23). I have included details of these in Table 2 below.\n\nIn areas where housing need is identified, Housing Associations are encouraged to look out for potential sites for development in areas of identified social housing need as set out in the Housing Executive Commissioning Prospectus which accompanies the SHDP.\n\nIn general, programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval.\n\nTable 1: Social housing units under construction in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3 (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t18\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3 (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tPhysically Disabled\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3A (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tPhysically Disabled\t1\t2020/21\t2022/23\nArk\tRailway Road\tColeraine\tOff The Shelf\tGeneral Needs\t12\t2020/21\t2021/22\nChoice\tThe Hill, Portstewart\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t9\t2020/21\t2022/23\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tCompetitive Design & Build\tGeneral Needs\t57\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tCompetitive Design & Build\tActive Elderly\t12\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tCompetitive Design & Build\tPhysically Disabled\t6\t2019/20\t2021/22\nTriangle\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T)\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t4\t2020/21\t2022/23\nTriangle\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T)\tColeraine\tNew Build\tPhysically Disabled\t3\t2020/21\t2022/23\n\nTable 2: Social housing units programmed to start 2021/22 – 2023/24 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nApex Housing\tCoastguard Road\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t6\t2021/22\t2022/23\nChoice\tKeely Gardens (T)\tAghadowey\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t4\t2021/22\t2022/23\nChoice\tCaptain Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t31\t2022/23\t2024/25\nChoice\tCaptain Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tWheelchair\t4\t2022/23\t2024/25\nChoice\tBeresford Avenue\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\t50\t2022/23\t2024/25","answerHtml":"There are currently 126 new social housing units under construction in the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency. I have included details of these in Table 1 below.
A total of 95 units are currently programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP 2021/22 – 2022/23). I have included details of these in Table 2 below.
In areas where housing need is identified, Housing Associations are encouraged to look out for potential sites for development in areas of identified social housing need as set out in the Housing Executive Commissioning Prospectus which accompanies the SHDP.
In general, programmed schemes can be lost or slip to future programme years for a variety of reasons e.g. relating to delays in acquiring sites and/or failure to secure Planning Approval.
Table 1: Social housing units under construction in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 (T) | Dungiven | New Build | General Needs | 18 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 (T) | Dungiven | New Build | Physically Disabled | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3A (T) | Dungiven | New Build | Physically Disabled | 1 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Ark | Railway Road | Coleraine | Off The Shelf | General Needs | 12 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Choice | The Hill, Portstewart | Portstewart | New Build | General Needs | 9 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | Competitive Design & Build | General Needs | 57 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | Competitive Design & Build | Active Elderly | 12 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | Competitive Design & Build | Physically Disabled | 6 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Triangle | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T) | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | 4 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Triangle | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T) | Coleraine | New Build | Physically Disabled | 3 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
Table 2: Social housing units programmed to start 2021/22 – 2023/24 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Apex Housing | Coastguard Road | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | 6 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Choice | Keely Gardens (T) | Aghadowey | New Build | General Needs | 4 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Choice | Captain Street | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | 31 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
| Choice | Captain Street | Coleraine | New Build | Wheelchair | 4 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
| Choice | Beresford Avenue | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | 50 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
At this time there are no plans make dental check-ups free of charge as there is no conclusive evidence that charges are a barrier to people attending dental check-ups.
Approximately 63% of the Northern Ireland population are registered with a General Dental Practitioner (GDP) and approximately 50% of patients receiving General Dental Service (GDS) care are exempt from patient charges. There is a strong relationship between not being registered and living in areas of deprivation, therefore many of those who are not registered are likely to be entitled to free dental treatment but nevertheless do not attend.
Similarly, there is no strong research evidence illustrating that free dental check-ups would improve the likelihood of diagnosing more cases of oral cancer. Most patients who are ultimately diagnosed with an oral cancer in Northern Ireland are not referred to hospital by general dental practitioners.
The primary driver to improve the number of patients who are diagnosed early as opposed to late with oral cancer would be that survival chances are significantly increased as is quality of life post-treatment. It also follows that the overall cost of treatment is lower with earlier diagnosis, however I am not aware of any research into the effects of free dental check-ups on earlier diagnosis of oral cancer.
While GDPs will screen patients for oral cancer as part of an overall dental examination (opportunistic screening), independent researchers and the UK National Screening Committee have found that an oral cancer population screening programme would not be a cost-effective use of Health Service resources. This is because of the difficulty of detecting the condition at an early stage and because of the likely low screening uptake rates among those individuals who are at the highest risk of developing the condition. Therefore, at this moment in time, there are no plans to establish oral cancer screening arrangements over and above those already provided opportunistically by GDPs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017700%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334596","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334596"}},{"id":"334595","reference":"AQW 17699/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-21","answerBy":"2021-05-07","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the elements of the Tackling Paramilitarism Action Plan which will be used to investigate and help prevent further instances of the rioting and antisocial behaviour seen on Northern Ireland’s streets in recent weeks.","answerText":"As the member will be aware, any investigations relating to criminal activity are an operational matter for the PSNI, and I respect the Chief Constable’s operational independence on this matter.\n\nIt should also be noted that whilst members linked to paramilitary crime gangs have been present during some of the disorder, the PSNI have stated that there is no evidence of paramilitary orchestration of much of the violence we witnessed.\n\nWe are all aware that antisocial behaviour and rioting has a negative impact on a community and individuals, and has significant consequences for those who engage in it. It requires a collaborative response from across government in partnership with communities to support individuals at risk and to address underlying issues. I am pleased that there are many initiatives under the Tackling Paramilitarism, Crime and Organised Crime Programme which adopt that approach, and while these are not the only initiatives which will address the issues that we have seen in recent weeks, they have a role in addressing this behaviour.\n\nThe Programme is supporting a number of projects which focus on young people. These include early intervention projects, diversionary programmes, projects which provide direct support for those at risk, and multi-agency initiatives to co-ordinate efforts to support young people. These include the following projects: START led by Education Authority (EA); WRAP led by Department of Education; Aspire led by the Probation Board; Fresh Start Through Sport, CRISP, and Galliagh Family Support led by the Department for Communities; educational aspiration projects led by The Executive Office through Communities in Transition; the Mid and East Antrim Support Hub; and the Common Purpose initiative between EA and PSNI.\n\nTo supplement these interventions, place-based working will be developed further over the coming months and conversations have started with community partners to identify and work to address shared priorities there, some of which will have a positive impact on anti-community activity.","answerHtml":"As the member will be aware, any investigations relating to criminal activity are an operational matter for the PSNI, and I respect the Chief Constable’s operational independence on this matter.
It should also be noted that whilst members linked to paramilitary crime gangs have been present during some of the disorder, the PSNI have stated that there is no evidence of paramilitary orchestration of much of the violence we witnessed.
We are all aware that antisocial behaviour and rioting has a negative impact on a community and individuals, and has significant consequences for those who engage in it. It requires a collaborative response from across government in partnership with communities to support individuals at risk and to address underlying issues. I am pleased that there are many initiatives under the Tackling Paramilitarism, Crime and Organised Crime Programme which adopt that approach, and while these are not the only initiatives which will address the issues that we have seen in recent weeks, they have a role in addressing this behaviour.
The Programme is supporting a number of projects which focus on young people. These include early intervention projects, diversionary programmes, projects which provide direct support for those at risk, and multi-agency initiatives to co-ordinate efforts to support young people. These include the following projects: START led by Education Authority (EA); WRAP led by Department of Education; Aspire led by the Probation Board; Fresh Start Through Sport, CRISP, and Galliagh Family Support led by the Department for Communities; educational aspiration projects led by The Executive Office through Communities in Transition; the Mid and East Antrim Support Hub; and the Common Purpose initiative between EA and PSNI.
To supplement these interventions, place-based working will be developed further over the coming months and conversations have started with community partners to identify and work to address shared priorities there, some of which will have a positive impact on anti-community activity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017699%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334595"}},{"id":"334444","reference":"AQW 17626/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-20","answerBy":"2021-05-06","answered":"2021-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) medical and dental students from Northern Ireland receiving reduced financial support in the form of grants, loans and bursaries in the final two years of a five or six year course; and (ii) how, with only reduced grants, loans and bursaries, these students are expected to cover living costs, especially with increased studying hours during these years of study.","answerText":"There is no reduced financial support for medical and dental students in the final years of their course. NI-domiciled students undertaking their studies at a UK Medical or Dental school are provided with tuition fee support and may also be eligible for grants towards their living and travel costs on entering the fifth year of a first degree course in medicine or dentistry. Support may also be available to Medical students undertaking a one year, intercalated degree as part of their undergraduate degree course.\n\nQueen’s University Belfast consistently receives a large number of applications for its medical and dental courses. The most recent figures show 1509 applications for 312 medical places in 2021, and 580 applications for 60 dental places in 2021. QUB Medical School also reports very low drop out from its medicine course, with an attrition rate of 4%.\n\nUlster University’s new Graduate Entry Medical School welcomes its first intake of students in September 2021; the university has reported 477 applications for 70 places.\n\nThe evidence available demonstrates that medical and dental courses in Northern Ireland are extremely attractive, heavily oversubscribed courses which the vast majority of individuals see through to graduation under the current support arrangements.","answerHtml":"There is no reduced financial support for medical and dental students in the final years of their course. NI-domiciled students undertaking their studies at a UK Medical or Dental school are provided with tuition fee support and may also be eligible for grants towards their living and travel costs on entering the fifth year of a first degree course in medicine or dentistry. Support may also be available to Medical students undertaking a one year, intercalated degree as part of their undergraduate degree course.
Queen’s University Belfast consistently receives a large number of applications for its medical and dental courses. The most recent figures show 1509 applications for 312 medical places in 2021, and 580 applications for 60 dental places in 2021. QUB Medical School also reports very low drop out from its medicine course, with an attrition rate of 4%.
Ulster University’s new Graduate Entry Medical School welcomes its first intake of students in September 2021; the university has reported 477 applications for 70 places.
The evidence available demonstrates that medical and dental courses in Northern Ireland are extremely attractive, heavily oversubscribed courses which the vast majority of individuals see through to graduation under the current support arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017626%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334444"}},{"id":"334443","reference":"AQW 17625/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-20","answerBy":"2021-05-06","answered":"2021-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to bring local recipients of Universal Credit in line with those in the rest of the UK in enabling an automatic entitlement to financial help with ophthalmic and dental services.","answerText":"Entitlement to assistance with health costs in Northern Ireland is generally based on low income or on receipt of certain social security benefits set out in legislation (The Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charge Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004). At present this does not include Universal Credit. For this to change, it is necessary to make amendments to the legislation to include Universal Credit recipients with incomes below specified thresholds.\n\nAn interim measure to align Northern Ireland with the rest of the UK has been to use the existing Low Income Scheme (LIS) administered by the Department for Communities. This provides a safety net for patients who do not automatically receive full help with the cost of their healthcare, but who have a low income and who therefore face difficulty meeting the cost of their health service treatment. Options for a long term solution will be assessed in due course.","answerHtml":"Entitlement to assistance with health costs in Northern Ireland is generally based on low income or on receipt of certain social security benefits set out in legislation (The Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charge Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004). At present this does not include Universal Credit. For this to change, it is necessary to make amendments to the legislation to include Universal Credit recipients with incomes below specified thresholds.
An interim measure to align Northern Ireland with the rest of the UK has been to use the existing Low Income Scheme (LIS) administered by the Department for Communities. This provides a safety net for patients who do not automatically receive full help with the cost of their healthcare, but who have a low income and who therefore face difficulty meeting the cost of their health service treatment. Options for a long term solution will be assessed in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017625%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334443"}},{"id":"334442","reference":"AQW 17624/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-20","answerBy":"2021-05-06","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the youth work initiatives his Department has facilitated in order to reach the most vulnerable and hard to reach young people in each of the past five years in (i) East Londonderry; and (ii) Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have arranged for this information to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"I have arranged for this information to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017624%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334442"}},{"id":"334441","reference":"AQW 17623/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-20","answerBy":"2021-05-06","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his assessment of Pathological Demand Avoidance training not currently being mandatory for primary and post-primary teachers; and (ii) what support is currently available in schools for pupils who have PDA.","answerText":"Mandatory training is not in line with the Department’s Teacher Professional Learning Strategy - Learning Leaders (2016) which aims to empower the teaching profession to strengthen its own professionalism and expertise to meet the challenging educational needs of young people in the 21st century.\n\nThe Education Authority Autism Advisory and Intervention Service (EA AAIS) do not currently provide training or advice on Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) as there is no standard agreement amongst professionals on intervention strategies or categorisation of the condition at present. PDA, also referred to as extreme demand avoidance, is not a recognised diagnostic category within the existing international diagnostic classification systems. As this is a medical diagnosis, EA AAIS will continue to follow guidance and take the lead from the Department of Health.\n\nIf there is a diagnosis of PDA, the EA AAIS recommend that this is also accompanied by a treatment plan, from the health professional involved, to outline the support that the school can provide for individual pupils.\n\nTraining on autism and anxiety for Parents and Professionals may be useful for children and young people presenting with these difficulties. Parental guidance and resources are available via the EA AAIS or through Middletown Centre for Autism","answerHtml":"Mandatory training is not in line with the Department’s Teacher Professional Learning Strategy - Learning Leaders (2016) which aims to empower the teaching profession to strengthen its own professionalism and expertise to meet the challenging educational needs of young people in the 21st century.
The Education Authority Autism Advisory and Intervention Service (EA AAIS) do not currently provide training or advice on Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) as there is no standard agreement amongst professionals on intervention strategies or categorisation of the condition at present. PDA, also referred to as extreme demand avoidance, is not a recognised diagnostic category within the existing international diagnostic classification systems. As this is a medical diagnosis, EA AAIS will continue to follow guidance and take the lead from the Department of Health.
If there is a diagnosis of PDA, the EA AAIS recommend that this is also accompanied by a treatment plan, from the health professional involved, to outline the support that the school can provide for individual pupils.
Training on autism and anxiety for Parents and Professionals may be useful for children and young people presenting with these difficulties. Parental guidance and resources are available via the EA AAIS or through Middletown Centre for Autism
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017623%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334441"}},{"id":"334440","reference":"AQW 17622/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-20","answerBy":"2021-05-06","answered":"2021-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the process for challenging school admissions decisions in light of the changes related to COVID-19.","answerText":"Article 15 of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 requires the Education Authority (EA) to make arrangements to enable a parent to appeal against an admission decision where a child has been refused a place at an over-subscribed school by the application of the school’s published admissions criteria.\n\nAt the conclusion of the admissions processes, parents will receive notification of the outcome of their school applications via the EA’s online portal and at this time the EA will inform parents of their right to appeal and the deadline for submitting an appeal form.\n\nAn Independent Appeal Tribunal will then determine whether the school in question applied its admissions criteria and, provided it did, whether the criteria were applied correctly. Where an appeal is successful the child will be placed at the school.","answerHtml":"Article 15 of the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 requires the Education Authority (EA) to make arrangements to enable a parent to appeal against an admission decision where a child has been refused a place at an over-subscribed school by the application of the school’s published admissions criteria.
At the conclusion of the admissions processes, parents will receive notification of the outcome of their school applications via the EA’s online portal and at this time the EA will inform parents of their right to appeal and the deadline for submitting an appeal form.
An Independent Appeal Tribunal will then determine whether the school in question applied its admissions criteria and, provided it did, whether the criteria were applied correctly. Where an appeal is successful the child will be placed at the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017622%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334440"}},{"id":"334313","reference":"AQW 17554/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-19","answerBy":"2021-05-05","answered":"2021-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the restrictions in place for community and voluntary organisations, regarding meeting indoors and outdoors, and the use of community centres/halls; and when these restrictions are expected to end.","answerText":"Up to date COVID 19 information and guidance for individuals and organisations is maintained by The Executive Office, Public Health Agency and the Department of Health and can be found on the NI Direct website.\n\nCommunity and Voluntary sector organisations should continue to apply the most up to date rules and guidance set by the Executive in the coming weeks and months as and when restrictions are eased.\n\nMy Department supports NICVA to provide advice and guidance to the Voluntary and Community Sector during the pandemic, including via its website and through regular direct communications on key issues and developments.","answerHtml":"Up to date COVID 19 information and guidance for individuals and organisations is maintained by The Executive Office, Public Health Agency and the Department of Health and can be found on the NI Direct website.
Community and Voluntary sector organisations should continue to apply the most up to date rules and guidance set by the Executive in the coming weeks and months as and when restrictions are eased.
My Department supports NICVA to provide advice and guidance to the Voluntary and Community Sector during the pandemic, including via its website and through regular direct communications on key issues and developments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017554%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334313"}},{"id":"334312","reference":"AQW 17553/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-19","answerBy":"2021-05-05","answered":"2021-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities when swimming clubs will be able to recommence.","answerText":"An indicative date of 24 May has been set for the return of indoor group exercise and training (numbers informed by venue), which will include swimming clubs. This will be subject to review on 13 May.","answerHtml":"An indicative date of 24 May has been set for the return of indoor group exercise and training (numbers informed by venue), which will include swimming clubs. This will be subject to review on 13 May.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017553%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334312"}},{"id":"334311","reference":"AQW 17552/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-19","answerBy":"2021-05-05","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to confirm (i) when students in further education can expect to return to full-time teaching; and (ii) for her assessment of the disadvantage faced by further education students unable to work from home and sixth-form students in schools who also take courses in further education colleges.","answerText":"(i)Further Education (FE) colleges have continued to provide full time teaching throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, albeit mainly via online delivery during periods of additional restrictions. The full return to face-to-face learning at the FE colleges will be subject to the phases set out in the Executive’s ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ which was published on 2 March 2021. The Pathway has provided the approach that will be taken as we move forward over the next few months and the FE sector must comply with this.\n\nAs previously advised in AQW 171933-/17-22, at the Executive meeting on 15 April it was agreed that those learners who are training in close contact subjects could return to on-site training at FE premises from Friday 23 April 2021 (to coincide with the lifting of restrictions in the sectors).\n\nThe second phase of the ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ will see a partial return to practical face-to-face learning for FE learners, apprentices and Training for Success (TfS) participants in FE colleges and non-statutory contractors (NSCs). This will enable those learners to undertake skills training and associated assessment activities to enable them to successfully complete their programme. At its meeting on 22 April, the Executive agreed that a move to phase two could commence once lateral flow testing arrangements are in place, and this is being progressed as a matter of urgency.\n\nThere will be no change to FE delivery in the third phase, but by the end of phase four increased face-to-face teaching will be permitted for FE learners and apprentices. The pathway stipulates that a full return to on-site learning will not take place until the end of stage 5, and a date for that will be determined in due course and in line with public health advice. However, this will be kept under review along with medical and scientific advice about Covid-19 transmission rates, and the process will be expedited if circumstances permit.\n\n(ii) As advised above, those learners who are studying “close contact” subjects and are unable to complete work at home due to the practical nature of the course, are now able to return to on-site provision, in line with the lifting of operating restrictions in the wider sector. This will allow them to undertake the necessary skills training and associated assessment activities to enable them to successfully complete their programme and progress to employment or further education or training.\n\nEnsuring FE students can access online learning from home during the Covid-19 pandemic has been a key priority and digital hardship funding, in terms of the one-off £60 cash payment for mobile data, is only one of the measures my Department has adopted in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The digital hardship fund secured the provision of 500 additional iPads/devices to facilitate online learning for students and prior to that, there had been an additional £4.8 million funding provided to further education colleges for IT equipment that allowed continued access from home for both college staff and students.\n\nDuring periods of additional Covid-19 restrictions, a small number of FE students who do not have reliable broadband have been allowed to utilise college libraries to access internet facilities.\n\nFE colleges play a significant role in supporting local schools in the delivery of vocational qualifications at both Key Stage 4 and post GCSE. I have agreed that school pupils, studying at colleges under the Entitlement Framework could return to on-site learning from the week commencing 19 April 2021. This specifically relates to school pupils who are undertaking practical courses including Occupational Studies or other courses with a practical element where assessments or activities, to enable the award of a Centre Determined Grade, need to be carried out.","answerHtml":"(i)Further Education (FE) colleges have continued to provide full time teaching throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, albeit mainly via online delivery during periods of additional restrictions. The full return to face-to-face learning at the FE colleges will be subject to the phases set out in the Executive’s ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ which was published on 2 March 2021. The Pathway has provided the approach that will be taken as we move forward over the next few months and the FE sector must comply with this.
As previously advised in AQW 171933-/17-22, at the Executive meeting on 15 April it was agreed that those learners who are training in close contact subjects could return to on-site training at FE premises from Friday 23 April 2021 (to coincide with the lifting of restrictions in the sectors).
The second phase of the ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ will see a partial return to practical face-to-face learning for FE learners, apprentices and Training for Success (TfS) participants in FE colleges and non-statutory contractors (NSCs). This will enable those learners to undertake skills training and associated assessment activities to enable them to successfully complete their programme. At its meeting on 22 April, the Executive agreed that a move to phase two could commence once lateral flow testing arrangements are in place, and this is being progressed as a matter of urgency.
There will be no change to FE delivery in the third phase, but by the end of phase four increased face-to-face teaching will be permitted for FE learners and apprentices. The pathway stipulates that a full return to on-site learning will not take place until the end of stage 5, and a date for that will be determined in due course and in line with public health advice. However, this will be kept under review along with medical and scientific advice about Covid-19 transmission rates, and the process will be expedited if circumstances permit.
(ii) As advised above, those learners who are studying “close contact” subjects and are unable to complete work at home due to the practical nature of the course, are now able to return to on-site provision, in line with the lifting of operating restrictions in the wider sector. This will allow them to undertake the necessary skills training and associated assessment activities to enable them to successfully complete their programme and progress to employment or further education or training.
Ensuring FE students can access online learning from home during the Covid-19 pandemic has been a key priority and digital hardship funding, in terms of the one-off £60 cash payment for mobile data, is only one of the measures my Department has adopted in response to the Covid-19 pandemic. The digital hardship fund secured the provision of 500 additional iPads/devices to facilitate online learning for students and prior to that, there had been an additional £4.8 million funding provided to further education colleges for IT equipment that allowed continued access from home for both college staff and students.
During periods of additional Covid-19 restrictions, a small number of FE students who do not have reliable broadband have been allowed to utilise college libraries to access internet facilities.
FE colleges play a significant role in supporting local schools in the delivery of vocational qualifications at both Key Stage 4 and post GCSE. I have agreed that school pupils, studying at colleges under the Entitlement Framework could return to on-site learning from the week commencing 19 April 2021. This specifically relates to school pupils who are undertaking practical courses including Occupational Studies or other courses with a practical element where assessments or activities, to enable the award of a Centre Determined Grade, need to be carried out.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017552%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334311"}},{"id":"334310","reference":"AQW 17551/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-19","answerBy":"2021-05-05","answered":"2021-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether she is considering extending MOT Test Exemption Certificates (TECs) for those who cannot secure a test prior to their expiry date; (ii) to detail the number of MOT tests that will be required when the current TEC period ends; and (iii) whether the testing system has the capacity to meet this demand.","answerText":"On 11 February 2021, I announced that existing Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years old, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied.\n\nThe Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 of its test centres. However, in line with PHA advice and guidance, it has introduced additional control measures at its test centres to mitigate against the risk of Covid-19 transmission. The DVA is, therefore, operating at a reduced vehicle testing capacity and will continue to issue TECs to all eligible vehicles until normal vehicle testing services resume.\n\nWhile there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at the preferred test centre, and customers may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires. Additional vehicle test slots are available daily at most centres and further slots also become available due to cancellations.\n\nThe DVA encourages customers who urgently require an appointment to check the booking system daily as vehicle slots become available at short notice. For those customers who are unable to secure a test date and whose MOT is due to expire within five days or has already expired, they should contact the DVA customer services team at customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and they will seek to secure an urgent appointment prior to the expiry date, so the customer can continue to use the vehicle legally on the road.\n\nThe DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west.\n\nAs restrictions ease, the DVA will continue to adapt its services to enable full resumption of vehicle testing, when it is safe to do so. This will require the reinstatement of the normal vehicle testing procedures to ensure there is adequate vehicle testing capacity to meet the demand.\n\nI remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plan for the restoration of services is in hand, and most importantly remain committed to protecting the lives of staff and customers during this pandemic.","answerHtml":"On 11 February 2021, I announced that existing Temporary Exemption Certificates (TECs) for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years old, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied.
The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 of its test centres. However, in line with PHA advice and guidance, it has introduced additional control measures at its test centres to mitigate against the risk of Covid-19 transmission. The DVA is, therefore, operating at a reduced vehicle testing capacity and will continue to issue TECs to all eligible vehicles until normal vehicle testing services resume.
While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at the preferred test centre, and customers may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires. Additional vehicle test slots are available daily at most centres and further slots also become available due to cancellations.
The DVA encourages customers who urgently require an appointment to check the booking system daily as vehicle slots become available at short notice. For those customers who are unable to secure a test date and whose MOT is due to expire within five days or has already expired, they should contact the DVA customer services team at customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and they will seek to secure an urgent appointment prior to the expiry date, so the customer can continue to use the vehicle legally on the road.
The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west.
As restrictions ease, the DVA will continue to adapt its services to enable full resumption of vehicle testing, when it is safe to do so. This will require the reinstatement of the normal vehicle testing procedures to ensure there is adequate vehicle testing capacity to meet the demand.
I remain committed to minimising disruption and ensuring our plan for the restoration of services is in hand, and most importantly remain committed to protecting the lives of staff and customers during this pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017551%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334310"}},{"id":"334309","reference":"AQW 17550/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-19","answerBy":"2021-05-05","answered":"2021-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on the work being done to ensure anyone requiring an MOT can get one before their certificate expires; (ii) what are the repercussions in terms of insurance, tax and the car owner’s ability to drive their vehicle if they cannot secure a test prior to the expiry of their MOT certificate; and (iii) what is the advice for someone who cannot secure an MOT test before their certificate expires.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is delivering vehicle testing services at all 15 of its test centres for those vehicles that require an MOT test. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at the preferred test centre, and customers may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.\n\nThe demand for vehicle testing is high due in part to customers, who do not require a test, booking an appointment. To manage capacity, the DVA is continually identifying and cancelling vehicle tests which have been booked by customers even though their vehicle has a current Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC). Additional vehicle test slots are available daily at most centres and further slots also become available due to cancellations.\n\nCustomers are able to change existing appointments to a different test centre and time if a preferred slot becomes available.\n\nIn addition, the DVA also offers vehicle test appointments on Sundays and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west.\n\nThe DVA has recently extended the period in which MOT reminder letters are issued to six weeks prior to the test due date, with plans to increase this to seven weeks in mid-June to provide customers with earlier notice to book their test.\n\nIn light of the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, I recently announced that existing TECs for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied. This will help free up test slots for customers that cannot avail of a TEC.\n\nIf someone is unable to secure a vehicle test date until after their vehicle test certificate or TEC expires, the legislation permits them to drive the vehicle to a test centre and, if it fails, back to the registered address for the vehicle or a place of repair.\n\nThe DVA encourages customers to check the booking system daily as vehicle slots become available at short notice. For those customers who are unable to secure a test date and whose MOT is due to expire within five days or has already expired, they should contact DVA customer services at dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will seek to secure an urgent appointment for the customer.\n\nLike all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA will continue to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time. The DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as they work towards the resumption of normal services.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is delivering vehicle testing services at all 15 of its test centres for those vehicles that require an MOT test. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at the preferred test centre, and customers may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.
The demand for vehicle testing is high due in part to customers, who do not require a test, booking an appointment. To manage capacity, the DVA is continually identifying and cancelling vehicle tests which have been booked by customers even though their vehicle has a current Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC). Additional vehicle test slots are available daily at most centres and further slots also become available due to cancellations.
Customers are able to change existing appointments to a different test centre and time if a preferred slot becomes available.
In addition, the DVA also offers vehicle test appointments on Sundays and bank holidays, at most test centres. Following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity is now available to meet demand in the north-west.
The DVA has recently extended the period in which MOT reminder letters are issued to six weeks prior to the test due date, with plans to increase this to seven weeks in mid-June to provide customers with earlier notice to book their test.
In light of the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, I recently announced that existing TECs for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied. This will help free up test slots for customers that cannot avail of a TEC.
If someone is unable to secure a vehicle test date until after their vehicle test certificate or TEC expires, the legislation permits them to drive the vehicle to a test centre and, if it fails, back to the registered address for the vehicle or a place of repair.
The DVA encourages customers to check the booking system daily as vehicle slots become available at short notice. For those customers who are unable to secure a test date and whose MOT is due to expire within five days or has already expired, they should contact DVA customer services at dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will seek to secure an urgent appointment for the customer.
Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA will continue to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time. The DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as they work towards the resumption of normal services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017550%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334309"}},{"id":"334187","reference":"AQW 17487/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-16","answerBy":"2021-05-04","answered":"2021-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of vets that will be required to check livestock at Northern Ireland’s ports on completion of the ports' infrastructure project.","answerText":"Livestock only enter Northern Ireland through the port of Larne. The port operates around the clock and livestock can arrive on any sailing. All consignments must be inspected.\n\nFive veterinary inspectors are currently headquartered in Larne Port with at least one vet on each of the four shift teams.\n\nLivestock inspections comprise only part of the vet’s work but it is not anticipated that the number of animals arriving or the resource requirement for livestock checks will increase significantly in the future.","answerHtml":"Livestock only enter Northern Ireland through the port of Larne. The port operates around the clock and livestock can arrive on any sailing. All consignments must be inspected.
Five veterinary inspectors are currently headquartered in Larne Port with at least one vet on each of the four shift teams.
Livestock inspections comprise only part of the vet’s work but it is not anticipated that the number of animals arriving or the resource requirement for livestock checks will increase significantly in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017487%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334187"}},{"id":"334186","reference":"AQW 17486/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-16","answerBy":"2021-05-04","answered":"2021-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether (i) companies other than ESB are legally allowed to develop and operate electric vehicle charge point infrastructure; (ii) companies, including ESB, are allowed to make a profit from such enterprise under current legislation; and (iii) she has given consideration to creating a profit incentive for companies in order to boost the provision and quality of electric vehicle charge points in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Companies other than ESB are legally allowed to develop and operate electric vehicle charge point infrastructure and are allowed to make a profit from such enterprise under current legislation. However, whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North. I have not given consideration to creating a profit incentive for companies in order to boost the provision and quality of electric vehicle charge points in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Utility Regulator’s decision in March 2020 to remove the Maximum Resale Price on the electricity cost of charge points allows commercial operators to charge above cost price of electricity supply. This should give clarity for operators wishing to provide commercial services and strengthen network provision in Northern Ireland.\n\nI remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"Companies other than ESB are legally allowed to develop and operate electric vehicle charge point infrastructure and are allowed to make a profit from such enterprise under current legislation. However, whilst the market is open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure, to date, ESB is the only public network provider in the North. I have not given consideration to creating a profit incentive for companies in order to boost the provision and quality of electric vehicle charge points in Northern Ireland.
The Utility Regulator’s decision in March 2020 to remove the Maximum Resale Price on the electricity cost of charge points allows commercial operators to charge above cost price of electricity supply. This should give clarity for operators wishing to provide commercial services and strengthen network provision in Northern Ireland.
I remain committed to working in partnership with Executive colleagues and others across our islands to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017486%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334186"}},{"id":"334185","reference":"AQW 17485/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-16","answerBy":"2021-05-04","answered":"2021-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the efforts being made to remove barbed wire fences from Northern Ireland’s beaches.","answerText":"DAERA is responsible for managing bathing water quality at 26 identified sites around the coast of Northern Ireland. DAERA works closely with the bathing water operators, who are the local councils, the National Trust and NIEA. Other partners in the Better Beaches Forum, which DAERA leads, are Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful and NI Water.\n\nIt is the bathing water operators who manage the beach area and NIEA performs this role at Helen’s Bay and Crawfordsburn. Barbed wire is not used at any beaches managed by NIEA. If staff find discarded barbed wire, it is targeted for removal as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"DAERA is responsible for managing bathing water quality at 26 identified sites around the coast of Northern Ireland. DAERA works closely with the bathing water operators, who are the local councils, the National Trust and NIEA. Other partners in the Better Beaches Forum, which DAERA leads, are Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful and NI Water.
It is the bathing water operators who manage the beach area and NIEA performs this role at Helen’s Bay and Crawfordsburn. Barbed wire is not used at any beaches managed by NIEA. If staff find discarded barbed wire, it is targeted for removal as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017485%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334185","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334185"}},{"id":"334184","reference":"AQW 17484/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-16","answerBy":"2021-05-04","answered":"2021-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the support provided to teachers to resettle and reintegrate pupils into the classroom environment after months of learning from home.","answerText":"My Department has issued curriculum guidance circulars to provide advice and support to teachers across the system as they resettle and reintegrate pupils into the classroom environment. The EA is also delivering a range of Teacher Professional Learning courses, including the recent ‘Sharing the Learning’ Conferences. Notably, the Supporting Learning Project has provided a suite of resources designed to meet teachers’ professional learning needs during the current time. On the ground advice, support and guidance is also available to schools from their cross-organisational Link Officers.\n\nIn addition, my Department has advised schools of its intention to relax a range of statutory requirements for example around pupil reports and statutory Key Stage Assessment. This will give teachers additional time and opportunity to focus on teaching and learning in the classroom.","answerHtml":"My Department has issued curriculum guidance circulars to provide advice and support to teachers across the system as they resettle and reintegrate pupils into the classroom environment. The EA is also delivering a range of Teacher Professional Learning courses, including the recent ‘Sharing the Learning’ Conferences. Notably, the Supporting Learning Project has provided a suite of resources designed to meet teachers’ professional learning needs during the current time. On the ground advice, support and guidance is also available to schools from their cross-organisational Link Officers.
In addition, my Department has advised schools of its intention to relax a range of statutory requirements for example around pupil reports and statutory Key Stage Assessment. This will give teachers additional time and opportunity to focus on teaching and learning in the classroom.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017484%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334184","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334184"}},{"id":"334183","reference":"AQW 17483/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-16","answerBy":"2021-05-04","answered":"2021-08-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he intends to make autism training mandatory for teachers of autistic pupils.","answerText":"I do not intend to introduce mandatory autism training at this time as this would be potentially repercussive for other areas of Special Educational Needs (and or medical conditions), some of which may be low incidence, seeking to introduce mandatory training.\n\nIn line with the Department’s Teacher Professional Learning “Learning Leaders” Strategy (2016), responsibility for ongoing teacher professional learning is increasingly led by the teachers’ own reflections on the effectiveness of their own practice, strengths and weaknesses in their current knowledge and experience, and consideration of how they can better support the learning needs of their pupils and development needs within their school.\n\nI launched the Enhanced Autism Training Framework, developed by the Education Authority Autism Advisory and Intervention Service (EA AAIS) and Middletown Centre for Autism (MCA), in December 2020. This training is available to all teachers, and educational staff online through C2K or the via the MCA website. It is anticipated that this will move to a blended approach, both in person training and online training, when it is safe to do so.","answerHtml":"I do not intend to introduce mandatory autism training at this time as this would be potentially repercussive for other areas of Special Educational Needs (and or medical conditions), some of which may be low incidence, seeking to introduce mandatory training.
In line with the Department’s Teacher Professional Learning “Learning Leaders” Strategy (2016), responsibility for ongoing teacher professional learning is increasingly led by the teachers’ own reflections on the effectiveness of their own practice, strengths and weaknesses in their current knowledge and experience, and consideration of how they can better support the learning needs of their pupils and development needs within their school.
I launched the Enhanced Autism Training Framework, developed by the Education Authority Autism Advisory and Intervention Service (EA AAIS) and Middletown Centre for Autism (MCA), in December 2020. This training is available to all teachers, and educational staff online through C2K or the via the MCA website. It is anticipated that this will move to a blended approach, both in person training and online training, when it is safe to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017483%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334183","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334183"}},{"id":"333770","reference":"AQW 17295/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-14","answerBy":"2021-04-19","answered":"2021-04-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she will request an urgent procedure from the Minister of Health for the immediate reopening of amateur sports and other community clubs for those under 18 years old.","answerText":"The Executive announcement on 15 April has extended the existing easements for sport meaning that from 23 April all amateur outdoor sport training and competitions can resume as long as it is structured through clubs affiliated to recognised sports Governing Bodies or other representative organisations for sport and physical activity.\n\nHowever numbers for competitive fixtures, including officials, participants, management and support personnel, should be restricted to the minimum number required for the delivery of the event and should not exceed 100.\n\nIn addition, the Executive has agreed that from the 30 April, individual indoor activities in gyms, swimming pools and other large venues will be permitted.\n\nThese announcements permit structured amateur outdoor sports to re-open for everyone, including young people under 18 years of age.\n\nThe return to sport protocols put in place by sports Governing Bodies and representative organisations, should be strictly adhered to including hygiene measures, social distancing, track and trace provision and other mitigations.","answerHtml":"The Executive announcement on 15 April has extended the existing easements for sport meaning that from 23 April all amateur outdoor sport training and competitions can resume as long as it is structured through clubs affiliated to recognised sports Governing Bodies or other representative organisations for sport and physical activity.
However numbers for competitive fixtures, including officials, participants, management and support personnel, should be restricted to the minimum number required for the delivery of the event and should not exceed 100.
In addition, the Executive has agreed that from the 30 April, individual indoor activities in gyms, swimming pools and other large venues will be permitted.
These announcements permit structured amateur outdoor sports to re-open for everyone, including young people under 18 years of age.
The return to sport protocols put in place by sports Governing Bodies and representative organisations, should be strictly adhered to including hygiene measures, social distancing, track and trace provision and other mitigations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017295%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333770"}},{"id":"333769","reference":"AQW 17294/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-14","answerBy":"2021-04-29","answered":"2021-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of (i) times; and (ii) locations when wastewater that exceeded pollution limits was released into waterways, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"NIEA regulate discharges to the aquatic environment under the Water Order (Northern Ireland) 1999 as amended. Wastewater refers to a range of discharges that include; sewage related discharges, industrial discharges and site drainage discharges.\n\nI have therefore provided below the number of times and locations for all wastewater discharges and pollution incidents where an exceedance has been detected to be in breach of its Water Order Consent in each of the last 5 years.\n\nType of Discharge\tNumber of Exceedances detected in the last 5 years\n2016\t2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\nPrivate Sewage, Industrial Discharge and Site Drainage Discharges\t391\t403\t376\t495\t159*\nNI Water\t167\t187\t121\t108\t117\nNumber of Locations where an exceedance has been detected in the last 5 years\n2016\t2017\t2018\t2019\t2020\nPrivate Sewage, Industrial Discharge and Site Drainage Discharges\t247\t233\t238\t286\t133\nNI Water\t48\t60\t47\t45\t46\n\n*Reduced Regulatory Sampling Regime due to the Covid Restrictions.","answerHtml":"NIEA regulate discharges to the aquatic environment under the Water Order (Northern Ireland) 1999 as amended. Wastewater refers to a range of discharges that include; sewage related discharges, industrial discharges and site drainage discharges.
I have therefore provided below the number of times and locations for all wastewater discharges and pollution incidents where an exceedance has been detected to be in breach of its Water Order Consent in each of the last 5 years.
| Type of Discharge | Number of Exceedances detected in the last 5 years | ||||
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
| Private Sewage, Industrial Discharge and Site Drainage Discharges | 391 | 403 | 376 | 495 | 159* |
| NI Water | 167 | 187 | 121 | 108 | 117 |
| Number of Locations where an exceedance has been detected in the last 5 years | |||||
| 2016 | 2017 | 2018 | 2019 | 2020 | |
| Private Sewage, Industrial Discharge and Site Drainage Discharges | 247 | 233 | 238 | 286 | 133 |
| NI Water | 48 | 60 | 47 | 45 | 46 |
*Reduced Regulatory Sampling Regime due to the Covid Restrictions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017294%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333769"}},{"id":"333768","reference":"AQW 17293/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-14","answerBy":"2021-04-29","answered":"2021-05-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the size and location of any areas of East Londonderry which have been (a) designated; or (b) proposed for future woodland expansion as part of the Forests of Our Future programme; and (ii) the species of trees involved.","answerText":"When I launched the Forests for Our Future Programme I wrote to Council Chief Executives and Ministerial colleagues, requesting their support to bring forward suitable public land for afforestation. Forest Service is working with public authorities, including in the East Londonderry area, in the preparation of afforestation plans. I am advised that at this stage almost 40 hectares has been identified as potential for new woodland creation in the area. Additionally 19 applications for 27 hectares of new native woodland have been approved for planting on privately owned land. In preparing and approving the plans, each woodland project is assessed for compliance with UK Forestry Standard and environmental regulations applying to designated areas.\n\nThe Forest Service’s Forest Expansion Scheme and the Small Woodland Grant Scheme will reopen in summer this year to support new planting in the winter of 2021/22. The Forest Expansion Scheme supports a wide range of species and woodland types including conifer, broadleaf and native trees. The Small Woodland Grant Scheme is designed to support new woodlands with native tree species. I would encourage land owners in East Londonderry with an interest in woodland creation to apply for these schemes.","answerHtml":"When I launched the Forests for Our Future Programme I wrote to Council Chief Executives and Ministerial colleagues, requesting their support to bring forward suitable public land for afforestation. Forest Service is working with public authorities, including in the East Londonderry area, in the preparation of afforestation plans. I am advised that at this stage almost 40 hectares has been identified as potential for new woodland creation in the area. Additionally 19 applications for 27 hectares of new native woodland have been approved for planting on privately owned land. In preparing and approving the plans, each woodland project is assessed for compliance with UK Forestry Standard and environmental regulations applying to designated areas.
The Forest Service’s Forest Expansion Scheme and the Small Woodland Grant Scheme will reopen in summer this year to support new planting in the winter of 2021/22. The Forest Expansion Scheme supports a wide range of species and woodland types including conifer, broadleaf and native trees. The Small Woodland Grant Scheme is designed to support new woodlands with native tree species. I would encourage land owners in East Londonderry with an interest in woodland creation to apply for these schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017293%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333768"}},{"id":"333767","reference":"AQW 17292/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-14","answerBy":"2021-04-29","answered":"2021-08-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any consideration they have given to the adoption of COVID-19 vaccine passports to facilitate tourism and hospitality businesses.","answerText":"Officials across departments, are engaging with other jurisdictions on a number of Covid-related reviews including Covid Certification.\n\nVaccine certification is currently being facilitated by the Department of Health in relation to international travel. Officials are exploring the potential use of certification for other purposes, informed by the medical and scientific advice, to allow a discussion by the Executive\n\nThere are currently no proposals to use vaccine passports for specific sectors.","answerHtml":"Officials across departments, are engaging with other jurisdictions on a number of Covid-related reviews including Covid Certification.
Vaccine certification is currently being facilitated by the Department of Health in relation to international travel. Officials are exploring the potential use of certification for other purposes, informed by the medical and scientific advice, to allow a discussion by the Executive
There are currently no proposals to use vaccine passports for specific sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017292%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333767"}},{"id":"333766","reference":"AQW 17291/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-14","answerBy":"2021-04-29","answered":"2021-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) his plans for using community pharmacists to continue to alleviate pressure on the Health Service; and (ii) the support and assistance pharmacists will need to fulfill this role.","answerText":"Community pharmacies have been playing a pivotal role in delivering health services to communities in Northern Ireland during the pandemic and it is clear that there is a very high level of public confidence in the professionalism and dedication shown by community pharmacies during what has been an extremely challenging year. I am therefore very pleased that agreement has now been reached on a community pharmacy commissioning plan for 2021-22.\n\nThe commissioning plan for 2021-22 builds on the agreement reached on last years’ commissioning arrangements and provides a coherent structure for the provision of community pharmacy services over the next 12 months. The plan continues to focus on the need to develop and support community pharmacy in their delivery of services and provides a commitment to scope, test and pilot services to inform future commissioning arrangements.","answerHtml":"Community pharmacies have been playing a pivotal role in delivering health services to communities in Northern Ireland during the pandemic and it is clear that there is a very high level of public confidence in the professionalism and dedication shown by community pharmacies during what has been an extremely challenging year. I am therefore very pleased that agreement has now been reached on a community pharmacy commissioning plan for 2021-22.
The commissioning plan for 2021-22 builds on the agreement reached on last years’ commissioning arrangements and provides a coherent structure for the provision of community pharmacy services over the next 12 months. The plan continues to focus on the need to develop and support community pharmacy in their delivery of services and provides a commitment to scope, test and pilot services to inform future commissioning arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017291%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333766"}},{"id":"333517","reference":"AQW 17197/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-16","answered":"2021-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the £500 COVID-19 recognition payment for Health and Social Care Trust staff, including when staff are likely to receive the payment.","answerText":"An FAQ on the special recognition payment, which includes eligibility criteria, has been published on my Department’s website and is available at the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs\n\nMy Department is currently finalising the scheme and will make payment as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"An FAQ on the special recognition payment, which includes eligibility criteria, has been published on my Department’s website and is available at the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
My Department is currently finalising the scheme and will make payment as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017197%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333517"}},{"id":"333516","reference":"AQW 17196/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail how she will ensure energy costs will remain affordable for consumers throughout the drive to decarbonise the local energy sector.","answerText":"Our proposed vision for the new Energy Strategy is to deliver a transition to net zero carbon energy systems that has consumers at its centre.\n\nThe consultation on Policy Options for a new Energy Strategy proposes a number of policies and measures to deliver fair and affordable energy systems. These include:\n\nEnsuring that affordability and fairness are primary considerations when assessing the costs, investment and financial support needed to meet net zero carbon energy;\n\nEnabling all consumers who want to participate in the future energy system and providing adequate protections to all, particularly vulnerable consumers; and\n\nAdopting a “one stop shop” to make sure all consumers have access to adequate, tailored and easy to understand information and support.","answerHtml":"Our proposed vision for the new Energy Strategy is to deliver a transition to net zero carbon energy systems that has consumers at its centre.
The consultation on Policy Options for a new Energy Strategy proposes a number of policies and measures to deliver fair and affordable energy systems. These include:
Ensuring that affordability and fairness are primary considerations when assessing the costs, investment and financial support needed to meet net zero carbon energy;
Enabling all consumers who want to participate in the future energy system and providing adequate protections to all, particularly vulnerable consumers; and
Adopting a “one stop shop” to make sure all consumers have access to adequate, tailored and easy to understand information and support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017196%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333516"}},{"id":"333515","reference":"AQW 17195/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in relation to the New Energy strategy, to detail (i) the specific areas in which the green economy and in particular green energy is likely to create employment; and (ii) what steps she is taking to ensure workers in Northern Ireland will be equipped with the skills required by these employment opportunities.","answerText":"Decarbonising energy will provide many opportunities to create wealth through investment and jobs whilst ensuring our environment is sustainable. Last month I launched a consultation on the new Energy Strategy with ‘Growing a Green Economy’ as one of five principles of the Strategy. This is also a key pillar of my Economic Recovery Action Plan.\n\nThrough these strategic plans, we have the opportunity to develop new clean energy technologies, embrace innovation and support new skills as part of a low carbon workforce. Building on the Economic Recovery Action Plan that I published in February, proposed areas of focus in the Energy Strategy Options Consultation include energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the development and growth of our circular and hydrogen economies.\n\nThe Energy Strategy Options Consultation identifies skills as a key priority to develop the skills needed for new jobs within the clean energy sector. This includes training and education opportunities through apprenticeships, as well as further and higher education routes. We will also consider measures to re-skill and re-train the workforce impacted by the transition from fossil fuels. The Options Consultation incudes a proposal to establish an Energy Skills Forum to shape skills development for our emerging low carbon workforce. I will also soon be bringing forward a consultation on a new Skills Strategy which will outline the strategic priorities for skills development in meeting the needs of the economy.\n\nAll of these important policy proposals are discussed in more detail in the Energy Strategy policy options consultation. I would encourage you and your constituents to respond to help inform out net zero energy future.","answerHtml":"Decarbonising energy will provide many opportunities to create wealth through investment and jobs whilst ensuring our environment is sustainable. Last month I launched a consultation on the new Energy Strategy with ‘Growing a Green Economy’ as one of five principles of the Strategy. This is also a key pillar of my Economic Recovery Action Plan.
Through these strategic plans, we have the opportunity to develop new clean energy technologies, embrace innovation and support new skills as part of a low carbon workforce. Building on the Economic Recovery Action Plan that I published in February, proposed areas of focus in the Energy Strategy Options Consultation include energy efficiency, renewable energy, and the development and growth of our circular and hydrogen economies.
The Energy Strategy Options Consultation identifies skills as a key priority to develop the skills needed for new jobs within the clean energy sector. This includes training and education opportunities through apprenticeships, as well as further and higher education routes. We will also consider measures to re-skill and re-train the workforce impacted by the transition from fossil fuels. The Options Consultation incudes a proposal to establish an Energy Skills Forum to shape skills development for our emerging low carbon workforce. I will also soon be bringing forward a consultation on a new Skills Strategy which will outline the strategic priorities for skills development in meeting the needs of the economy.
All of these important policy proposals are discussed in more detail in the Energy Strategy policy options consultation. I would encourage you and your constituents to respond to help inform out net zero energy future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017195%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333515"}},{"id":"333514","reference":"AQW 17194/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on his plans to turn Belfast City Hospital into a cancer surgery hub following its period spent as a COVID-19 Nightingale Hospital; and (ii) whether doing so will reduce cancer surgery waiting lists.","answerText":"On 15 June 2021 I published the Elective Care Framework. The framework sets out a five year plan with firm, time bound proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards, and how we will invest in and transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in future.\n\nThe Framework recognises that Northern Ireland’s main elective site for complex surgery is the Belfast City Hospital (BCH) and it is important to protect regional specialist elective care at this hospital. The focus is on the development of green pathways within the site with a view to the BCH becoming a green site for complex surgery, serving the region.","answerHtml":"On 15 June 2021 I published the Elective Care Framework. The framework sets out a five year plan with firm, time bound proposals for how we will systematically tackle the backlog of patients waiting longer than Ministerial standards, and how we will invest in and transform services to allow us to meet the population’s demands in future.
The Framework recognises that Northern Ireland’s main elective site for complex surgery is the Belfast City Hospital (BCH) and it is important to protect regional specialist elective care at this hospital. The focus is on the development of green pathways within the site with a view to the BCH becoming a green site for complex surgery, serving the region.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017194%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333514"}},{"id":"333513","reference":"AQW 17193/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-13","answerBy":"2021-04-28","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update of when students in further education will return to face-to-face teaching, given sixth-form students in schools have already done so.","answerText":"The Further Education (FE) sector has had a different delivery model to that of the school sector since the start of the pandemic. The risk based approach to planning for the safe resumption of on-site educational provision and related activity at FE colleges is based on two metre social distancing due to clear and unequivocal advice from the Public Health Agency (PHA) that two metres is the optimum distance required in FE colleges to protect staff, learners and public health.\n\nThe social distancing advice provided to schools, and consequently their ability to return all learners to face-to-face provision, is based on the nature of the school environment. This includes the age profile and characteristics of those in that environment and the vulnerabilities, or otherwise, they demonstrate. The different advice my Department received from the PHA, was based on a combination of complexities unique to the FE college environment that are not found within that of schools\n\nThe full return to face to face learning at the Further Education (FE) colleges will be subject to the phases set out in the Executive’s ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ which was published on 2nd March 2021.\n\nThe current arrangements are that colleges can remain open to their learners by delivering distance learning to the maximum extent possible, with essential face-to-face learning taking place only when it is a necessary and unavoidable part of the course. Learners and staff have been permitted on-site to undertake examinations and assessments in line with relevant government issued industry and workplace restrictions and guidance for occupational settings.\n\nFor many learners, online learning will not be sufficient to enable them to achieve their qualifications by the end of the academic year. Students undertaking licence to practice and competency skills based programmes will need to return on-site for the opportunity to undertake skills training and associated assessment activities if they are to successfully complete their programme and progress to employment or further education or training.\n\nIn particular, learners studying in ‘close contact’ subject areas, such as hair and beauty, sports studies, and service elements of hospitality, were unable to receive any face-to-face on-site education whilst the wider sector was under occupational operating restrictions which impacted the ability of these learners to gain enough practical experience to allow them to undertake their assessments and subsequently gain employment or move into the next stage of their training.\n\nAt the Executive meeting on 15 April it was agreed that those learners who are training in close contact subjects can return to on-site training at FE premises from Friday 23 April 2021 (to coincide with the lifting of restrictions in the sectors), subject to strict adherence to conditions set out in (i) a specific guidance note for close contact training services, (ii) the principles in the Framework for the Safe Resumption of On-Site Educational Provision and Related Activity which was published in August 2020 and regularly reviewed with up to date advice and guidance from the NI Executive and Public Health Agency, and (iii) site specific risk assessments.\n\nThe second phase of the ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ will see a partial return to practical face-to-face learning for increased numbers of FE learners, apprentices and Training for Success (TfS) participants. This will enable those learners to undertake skills training and associated assessment activities to enable them to successfully complete their programmes. There will be no change to FE delivery in the third phase, but by the end of phase four increased face-to-face teaching will be permitted for FE learners and apprentices. Finally by the end of phase five, FE colleges will move to a full return to face-to-face learning.\n\nThis staged and gradual approach to the easing of restrictions will be kept under review and will be informed by a range of evidence and data, which will determine the dates at which we can progress.","answerHtml":"The Further Education (FE) sector has had a different delivery model to that of the school sector since the start of the pandemic. The risk based approach to planning for the safe resumption of on-site educational provision and related activity at FE colleges is based on two metre social distancing due to clear and unequivocal advice from the Public Health Agency (PHA) that two metres is the optimum distance required in FE colleges to protect staff, learners and public health.
The social distancing advice provided to schools, and consequently their ability to return all learners to face-to-face provision, is based on the nature of the school environment. This includes the age profile and characteristics of those in that environment and the vulnerabilities, or otherwise, they demonstrate. The different advice my Department received from the PHA, was based on a combination of complexities unique to the FE college environment that are not found within that of schools
The full return to face to face learning at the Further Education (FE) colleges will be subject to the phases set out in the Executive’s ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ which was published on 2nd March 2021.
The current arrangements are that colleges can remain open to their learners by delivering distance learning to the maximum extent possible, with essential face-to-face learning taking place only when it is a necessary and unavoidable part of the course. Learners and staff have been permitted on-site to undertake examinations and assessments in line with relevant government issued industry and workplace restrictions and guidance for occupational settings.
For many learners, online learning will not be sufficient to enable them to achieve their qualifications by the end of the academic year. Students undertaking licence to practice and competency skills based programmes will need to return on-site for the opportunity to undertake skills training and associated assessment activities if they are to successfully complete their programme and progress to employment or further education or training.
In particular, learners studying in ‘close contact’ subject areas, such as hair and beauty, sports studies, and service elements of hospitality, were unable to receive any face-to-face on-site education whilst the wider sector was under occupational operating restrictions which impacted the ability of these learners to gain enough practical experience to allow them to undertake their assessments and subsequently gain employment or move into the next stage of their training.
At the Executive meeting on 15 April it was agreed that those learners who are training in close contact subjects can return to on-site training at FE premises from Friday 23 April 2021 (to coincide with the lifting of restrictions in the sectors), subject to strict adherence to conditions set out in (i) a specific guidance note for close contact training services, (ii) the principles in the Framework for the Safe Resumption of On-Site Educational Provision and Related Activity which was published in August 2020 and regularly reviewed with up to date advice and guidance from the NI Executive and Public Health Agency, and (iii) site specific risk assessments.
The second phase of the ‘Pathway out of Restrictions’ will see a partial return to practical face-to-face learning for increased numbers of FE learners, apprentices and Training for Success (TfS) participants. This will enable those learners to undertake skills training and associated assessment activities to enable them to successfully complete their programmes. There will be no change to FE delivery in the third phase, but by the end of phase four increased face-to-face teaching will be permitted for FE learners and apprentices. Finally by the end of phase five, FE colleges will move to a full return to face-to-face learning.
This staged and gradual approach to the easing of restrictions will be kept under review and will be informed by a range of evidence and data, which will determine the dates at which we can progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017193%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333513","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333513"}},{"id":"333271","reference":"AQW 17098/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the COVID regulations relating to booking and using domestic holiday homes and other tourist accommodation.","answerText":"As of 24th May 2021, all remaining travel and tourism facilities are permitted to open. This decision was ratified by the Executive on 20th May.\n\nUp to six people from two households can stay together overnight. If a household has six or more members the number staying together can be greater than six, as long as it is not more than 10. Children aged 12 years and under are not counted in the total in both cases.\n\nAccommodation providers will be required to collect customer details to help with the Test, Trace, Protect contact tracing programme. Additionally, those providers which sell or provide food or drink for consumption on the premises must have carried out a risk assessment and take all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of COVID-19.\n\nFurther information relating to travel and tourism, as well as the restrictions generally, is available at NI Direct on the link below:\n\nCoronavirus (COVID-19) regulations guidance: what the restrictions mean for you | nidirect\n\nOn 2 March 2021 the Executive ‘Moving Forward: The Executive's Pathway Out of Restrictions’. The pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.\n\nThis responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.","answerHtml":"As of 24th May 2021, all remaining travel and tourism facilities are permitted to open. This decision was ratified by the Executive on 20th May.
Up to six people from two households can stay together overnight. If a household has six or more members the number staying together can be greater than six, as long as it is not more than 10. Children aged 12 years and under are not counted in the total in both cases.
Accommodation providers will be required to collect customer details to help with the Test, Trace, Protect contact tracing programme. Additionally, those providers which sell or provide food or drink for consumption on the premises must have carried out a risk assessment and take all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of COVID-19.
Further information relating to travel and tourism, as well as the restrictions generally, is available at NI Direct on the link below:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) regulations guidance: what the restrictions mean for you | nidirect
On 2 March 2021 the Executive ‘Moving Forward: The Executive's Pathway Out of Restrictions’. The pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.
This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017098%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333271","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333271"}},{"id":"333270","reference":"AQW 17097/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the scientific data upon which his statement that foreign holidays will not go ahead this summer is based.","answerText":"The Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.\n\nScientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-risk-assessment-methodology-to-inform-international-travel-traffic-light-system/risk-assessment-methodology-to-inform-international-travel-traffic-light-system\n\nOn 20 May the Executive agreed to the following list of countries being included on the green list from 24 May, without the need for people to quarantine on their return to Northern Ireland. The countries and territories are: Australia, Iceland, New Zealand, Faroe Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Gibraltar, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Brunei, Falkland Islands, Portugal, Israel, and Singapore.\n\nPeople arriving from these destinations are required to undertake a pre-departure test and to complete a UK passenger locator form together with a mandatory day 2 test.\n\nIn addition those arriving from Portugal, Israel or Singapore will be requested to take a voluntary Day 8 PCR test, which will be provided free of charge. This will be kept under review.\n\nGuidance for travelling both internationally and within the Common Travel Area during the COVID-19 pandemic can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/coronavirus-covid-19/travel-advice-and-guidance","answerHtml":"The Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.
Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-risk-assessment-methodology-to-inform-international-travel-traffic-light-system/risk-assessment-methodology-to-inform-international-travel-traffic-light-system
On 20 May the Executive agreed to the following list of countries being included on the green list from 24 May, without the need for people to quarantine on their return to Northern Ireland. The countries and territories are: Australia, Iceland, New Zealand, Faroe Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Gibraltar, Saint Helena, Ascension and Tristan da Cunha, Brunei, Falkland Islands, Portugal, Israel, and Singapore.
People arriving from these destinations are required to undertake a pre-departure test and to complete a UK passenger locator form together with a mandatory day 2 test.
In addition those arriving from Portugal, Israel or Singapore will be requested to take a voluntary Day 8 PCR test, which will be provided free of charge. This will be kept under review.
Guidance for travelling both internationally and within the Common Travel Area during the COVID-19 pandemic can be found at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/information-and-services/coronavirus-covid-19/travel-advice-and-guidance
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017097%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333270"}},{"id":"333269","reference":"AQW 17096/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme, including the likely date of commencement.","answerText":"My Department advanced the work necessary to enable the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme to open for applications in line with the target date of March 2021. That included: development of an IT system to accept on-line applications; engagement with organisations who will provide supporting evidence; recruitment of administrative staff; and engagement of Capita to design a medical assessment service to assess the level of permanent disablement for applicants, where relevant. The Northern Ireland Judicial Appointments Commission also completed the appointment of members to the Victims’ Payments Board.\n\nOpening the Scheme was envisaged to be a two stage process with design of the medical assessment service continuing in parallel with applicants preparing their documentation. However, following consultation with the main groups representing victims and survivors of the Troubles, Mr Justice McAlinden, President of the Victims’ Payments Board, indicated their preference for guidance on the medical assessment service to be available to applicants in advance of the scheme opening for applications, allowing a single stage process.\n\nDevelopment of the medical assessment guidance is ongoing. It will be a matter for the President and the Victims’ Payments Board to confirm when the scheme will open for applications. However, the President has ensured that the main groups representing victims and survivors have been kept updated on progress.","answerHtml":"My Department advanced the work necessary to enable the Troubles Permanent Disablement Payment Scheme to open for applications in line with the target date of March 2021. That included: development of an IT system to accept on-line applications; engagement with organisations who will provide supporting evidence; recruitment of administrative staff; and engagement of Capita to design a medical assessment service to assess the level of permanent disablement for applicants, where relevant. The Northern Ireland Judicial Appointments Commission also completed the appointment of members to the Victims’ Payments Board.
Opening the Scheme was envisaged to be a two stage process with design of the medical assessment service continuing in parallel with applicants preparing their documentation. However, following consultation with the main groups representing victims and survivors of the Troubles, Mr Justice McAlinden, President of the Victims’ Payments Board, indicated their preference for guidance on the medical assessment service to be available to applicants in advance of the scheme opening for applications, allowing a single stage process.
Development of the medical assessment guidance is ongoing. It will be a matter for the President and the Victims’ Payments Board to confirm when the scheme will open for applications. However, the President has ensured that the main groups representing victims and survivors have been kept updated on progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017096%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333269","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333269"}},{"id":"333268","reference":"AQW 17095/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of how community energy groups can contribute to lowering the reliance on fossil fuels for energy; and (ii) whether her Department has given any assistance to such groups.","answerText":"The Consultation on Policy Options for the new Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland provides a vision of net zero carbon and affordable energy by placing consumers at the heart of Northern Ireland’s energy future. The Consultation includes a proposal to develop a policy framework for community energy that meets the requirements of the 2019 Electricity (Recast) Directive, whilst also considering additional policy measures that could be included. These include providing access to finance, incentives and capability training to enable communities to generate, use, sell and share their energy.\n\nWhile direct financial assistance has not been provided to community energy organisations, a small number have developed renewable electricity generating stations which are accredited under the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation.","answerHtml":"The Consultation on Policy Options for the new Energy Strategy for Northern Ireland provides a vision of net zero carbon and affordable energy by placing consumers at the heart of Northern Ireland’s energy future. The Consultation includes a proposal to develop a policy framework for community energy that meets the requirements of the 2019 Electricity (Recast) Directive, whilst also considering additional policy measures that could be included. These include providing access to finance, incentives and capability training to enable communities to generate, use, sell and share their energy.
While direct financial assistance has not been provided to community energy organisations, a small number have developed renewable electricity generating stations which are accredited under the Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017095%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333268","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333268"}},{"id":"333267","reference":"AQW 17094/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-04-12","answerBy":"2021-04-27","answered":"2021-04-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline (i) how he is helping to enable farmers to reduce carbon emissions resulting from their industry; and (ii) his future plans to assist the sector in reducing emissions.","answerText":"I have prioritised the development of a cross-cutting Green Growth Strategy which my Department is leading on, on behalf of the Executive. This will be a multi-decade strategy to tackle climate change and will map out the actions we must take to meet sector-specific greenhouse gas emission targets, including across the agri-food industry, which will deliver a cleaner environment, more efficient use of our resources within a circular economy and green jobs. The Green Growth Strategy will be developed in phases and a consultation on the draft Strategy to be launched will take place in advance of COP26 in Glasgow later this year, with the final Strategy being launched by March 2022.\n\nMy department continues to support farmers to adopt low-carbon farming practices through knowledge transfer, farm support schemes and scientific research.\n\nCAFRE deliver knowledge and technology transfer advice through initiatives including Business Development Groups, Farm Family Key Skills and the new Environmental Business Development Group Programme where currently 20 groups have been set up across NI focusing on sustainable farm systems and helping farmers identify carbon reduction measures and how to help protect the environment.\n\nThe Farm Business Improvement Scheme Capital (FBIS-C) has provided almost £14.5m of grant aid in total to over 3,000 farm businesses over the first two tranches of Tier 1, which has helped support the purchase of a large range of more efficient, precision and emissions reducing technologies. Letters of Offer have begun to issue for the third tranche of Tier 1 FBIS Capital, which has a funding allocation of £15million, following the very positive response in applications received, particularly for Low Emissions Slurry Spreading Equipment.\n\nForest Service is leading on ‘Forests for our Future’ aiming to create 9,000 hectares of new woodland by 2030. Grant funding for creating new woodlands is provided via the Forest Expansion Scheme and a new stand-alone Small Woodland Grant Scheme to help farmers integrate woodland on their farms. Also, the Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS) supports carbon friendly practices through a range of measures, including peatland restoration, establishing native woodland, agro-forestry and creation of new hedgerows. There are currently over 5,000 EFS agreements in place after four tranches, and a further two tranches are planned, subject to the necessary approvals.\n\nDAERA supports ongoing scientific research aimed at reducing agricultural emissions and enhancing carbon storage in the landscape. This includes research to more accurately account for the amount of carbon stored and sequestered in our grassland soils. Emerging evidence indicates that managed grasslands continue to sequester carbon after many decades and sequestration rates are enhanced where cattle slurry is applied, a common practice on farms in NI.\n\nMy department also supports the Agri-Forestry Greenhouse Gas Implementation Partnership’s (GHGIP) Efficient Farming Cuts Greenhouse Gases Implementation Plan aimed at tackling greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture. There is a strong emphasis on improved nutrient and livestock management within the plan.\n\nMy officials will continue to develop measures of support to help farmers play their part in reducing emissions and protect the environment. Work is ongoing to develop a future agri-environment scheme which will contribute to these aims. We will also continue to progress other initiatives including plans to consult on a strategy to reduce ammonia emissions, issuing of Pollution Prevention and Control Farm Permits, promoting use of technologies like low emissions slurry spreading equipment and working with the Greenhouse Gas Implementation Partnership.","answerHtml":"I have prioritised the development of a cross-cutting Green Growth Strategy which my Department is leading on, on behalf of the Executive. This will be a multi-decade strategy to tackle climate change and will map out the actions we must take to meet sector-specific greenhouse gas emission targets, including across the agri-food industry, which will deliver a cleaner environment, more efficient use of our resources within a circular economy and green jobs. The Green Growth Strategy will be developed in phases and a consultation on the draft Strategy to be launched will take place in advance of COP26 in Glasgow later this year, with the final Strategy being launched by March 2022.
My department continues to support farmers to adopt low-carbon farming practices through knowledge transfer, farm support schemes and scientific research.
CAFRE deliver knowledge and technology transfer advice through initiatives including Business Development Groups, Farm Family Key Skills and the new Environmental Business Development Group Programme where currently 20 groups have been set up across NI focusing on sustainable farm systems and helping farmers identify carbon reduction measures and how to help protect the environment.
The Farm Business Improvement Scheme Capital (FBIS-C) has provided almost £14.5m of grant aid in total to over 3,000 farm businesses over the first two tranches of Tier 1, which has helped support the purchase of a large range of more efficient, precision and emissions reducing technologies. Letters of Offer have begun to issue for the third tranche of Tier 1 FBIS Capital, which has a funding allocation of £15million, following the very positive response in applications received, particularly for Low Emissions Slurry Spreading Equipment.
Forest Service is leading on ‘Forests for our Future’ aiming to create 9,000 hectares of new woodland by 2030. Grant funding for creating new woodlands is provided via the Forest Expansion Scheme and a new stand-alone Small Woodland Grant Scheme to help farmers integrate woodland on their farms. Also, the Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS) supports carbon friendly practices through a range of measures, including peatland restoration, establishing native woodland, agro-forestry and creation of new hedgerows. There are currently over 5,000 EFS agreements in place after four tranches, and a further two tranches are planned, subject to the necessary approvals.
DAERA supports ongoing scientific research aimed at reducing agricultural emissions and enhancing carbon storage in the landscape. This includes research to more accurately account for the amount of carbon stored and sequestered in our grassland soils. Emerging evidence indicates that managed grasslands continue to sequester carbon after many decades and sequestration rates are enhanced where cattle slurry is applied, a common practice on farms in NI.
My department also supports the Agri-Forestry Greenhouse Gas Implementation Partnership’s (GHGIP) Efficient Farming Cuts Greenhouse Gases Implementation Plan aimed at tackling greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from agriculture. There is a strong emphasis on improved nutrient and livestock management within the plan.
My officials will continue to develop measures of support to help farmers play their part in reducing emissions and protect the environment. Work is ongoing to develop a future agri-environment scheme which will contribute to these aims. We will also continue to progress other initiatives including plans to consult on a strategy to reduce ammonia emissions, issuing of Pollution Prevention and Control Farm Permits, promoting use of technologies like low emissions slurry spreading equipment and working with the Greenhouse Gas Implementation Partnership.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2017094%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=333267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=333267"}},{"id":"332483","reference":"AQW 16856/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-05-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on the planned full resumption of adult and child respite services.","answerText":"Respite and short breaks services are open at a reduced capacity, in line with Infection Prevention Control (IPC) requirements and social distancing guidelines. IPC and social distancing guidelines are subject to regular review cognisant of the rollout and effectiveness of the vaccine programme and rates of infection.\n\nServices are continuously monitored and assessed so that service uptake and unfilled spaces are reallocated where possible to do so. Aligned to this process, Trusts have been working with families and community colleagues to scope additional/ alternative supports, including Direct Payments and domiciliary care.","answerHtml":"Respite and short breaks services are open at a reduced capacity, in line with Infection Prevention Control (IPC) requirements and social distancing guidelines. IPC and social distancing guidelines are subject to regular review cognisant of the rollout and effectiveness of the vaccine programme and rates of infection.
Services are continuously monitored and assessed so that service uptake and unfilled spaces are reallocated where possible to do so. Aligned to this process, Trusts have been working with families and community colleagues to scope additional/ alternative supports, including Direct Payments and domiciliary care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016856%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332483"}},{"id":"332482","reference":"AQW 16855/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any discussions she has had with Project Gigabit in relation to expanding the provision of superfast broadband to rural areas excluded from Project Stratum; and (ii) the number of rural properties in Northern Ireland, and East Londonderry that will remain without superfast broadband after the completion of Project Stratum.","answerText":"Project Gigabit is a £5 billion project managed by Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), aimed at bringing next generation gigabit broadband to more than one million hard to reach homes and businesses. As part of Project Gigabit, the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme is being relaunched, with up to £210 million to give people in eligible rural areas immediate financial help to get gigabit speeds. My Department will continue to engage with DCMS to discuss how these schemes will benefit Northern Ireland.\n\nProject Stratum was developed to improve access to broadband services for those premises unable to access speeds of 30 Mbps (Superfast broadband, as defined by Ofcom) or greater. Following an Open Market Review exercise and a public consultation, a target intervention area of approximately 79,000 was identified.\n\nMy Department’s aim has always been to bring a solution to as many of these premises as possible. However, with the funding available, it was not possible to address all premises in the target intervention area, and 2,517 eligible premises are currently out of scope of the project. Of those, 185 are within the East Londonderry Constituency.\n\nMy Department is seeking to address these premises. Discussions have already been advanced with DCMS and, now with Fibrus Networks appointed as the contractor, we are working to identify the solutions and costs to maximise coverage across the target intervention area. The outcome of this work will be shared at the earliest opportunity.\n\nIf there are other premises that have not been included in the target intervention area for which the data held by my Department is found to be incorrect, my officials will examine the eligibility of those premises and explore the possibility of bringing them into the Project Stratum intervention area, where appropriate. However, this would be subject to the necessary funding being available to cover the cost of those additional premises, and to value for money considerations.","answerHtml":"Project Gigabit is a £5 billion project managed by Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS), aimed at bringing next generation gigabit broadband to more than one million hard to reach homes and businesses. As part of Project Gigabit, the Gigabit Broadband Voucher Scheme is being relaunched, with up to £210 million to give people in eligible rural areas immediate financial help to get gigabit speeds. My Department will continue to engage with DCMS to discuss how these schemes will benefit Northern Ireland.
Project Stratum was developed to improve access to broadband services for those premises unable to access speeds of 30 Mbps (Superfast broadband, as defined by Ofcom) or greater. Following an Open Market Review exercise and a public consultation, a target intervention area of approximately 79,000 was identified.
My Department’s aim has always been to bring a solution to as many of these premises as possible. However, with the funding available, it was not possible to address all premises in the target intervention area, and 2,517 eligible premises are currently out of scope of the project. Of those, 185 are within the East Londonderry Constituency.
My Department is seeking to address these premises. Discussions have already been advanced with DCMS and, now with Fibrus Networks appointed as the contractor, we are working to identify the solutions and costs to maximise coverage across the target intervention area. The outcome of this work will be shared at the earliest opportunity.
If there are other premises that have not been included in the target intervention area for which the data held by my Department is found to be incorrect, my officials will examine the eligibility of those premises and explore the possibility of bringing them into the Project Stratum intervention area, where appropriate. However, this would be subject to the necessary funding being available to cover the cost of those additional premises, and to value for money considerations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016855%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332482"}},{"id":"332481","reference":"AQW 16854/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his plans for the creation or expansion of child outdoor education facilities in Northern Ireland as a whole, and in the East Londonderry constituency.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for youth service delivery and undertook a comprehensive review of Statutory Residential and Outdoor Learning Services in 2017 resulting in the establishment of a new framework to improve the educational experiences and outcomes for children and young people provided by these services.\n\nThe framework document - Residential and Outdoor Learning Service Provision - Moving Forward, remains current and can be accessed on the EA’s website via the following link:\n\nhttps://www.eani.org.uk/sites/default/files/2018-10/Residential%20and%20Outdoor%20Learning%20Service%20Provision%20-%20Moving%20Forwards%20FINAL%20REPORT.pdf\n\nRegarding voluntary provision, four organisations which deliver outdoor learning services have been successful is securing funding through my Department’s Voluntary Youth Capital project scheme. These are the Northern Ireland Scout Council, Crawfordsburn (c. £600k); Share Discovery Village, Lisnaskea (c. £580k); Girlguiding Ulster, Holywood (c. 580k), and Riding for the Disabled, Maghera (c. £500k). There are no outdoor centres in the East Londonderry area being considered under the current Voluntary Youth Capital project scheme.\n\nIn addition to the above initiatives, and in recognition of the operational challenges faced by outdoor education centres due to the public health situation, I have made available £1m Covid relief funding for both voluntary and statutory Outdoor Education provision to enable them to remain viable and resume services as restrictions allow.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) is responsible for youth service delivery and undertook a comprehensive review of Statutory Residential and Outdoor Learning Services in 2017 resulting in the establishment of a new framework to improve the educational experiences and outcomes for children and young people provided by these services.
The framework document - Residential and Outdoor Learning Service Provision - Moving Forward, remains current and can be accessed on the EA’s website via the following link:
https://www.eani.org.uk/sites/default/files/2018-10/Residential%20and%20Outdoor%20Learning%20Service%20Provision%20-%20Moving%20Forwards%20FINAL%20REPORT.pdf
Regarding voluntary provision, four organisations which deliver outdoor learning services have been successful is securing funding through my Department’s Voluntary Youth Capital project scheme. These are the Northern Ireland Scout Council, Crawfordsburn (c. £600k); Share Discovery Village, Lisnaskea (c. £580k); Girlguiding Ulster, Holywood (c. 580k), and Riding for the Disabled, Maghera (c. £500k). There are no outdoor centres in the East Londonderry area being considered under the current Voluntary Youth Capital project scheme.
In addition to the above initiatives, and in recognition of the operational challenges faced by outdoor education centres due to the public health situation, I have made available £1m Covid relief funding for both voluntary and statutory Outdoor Education provision to enable them to remain viable and resume services as restrictions allow.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016854%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332481"}},{"id":"332480","reference":"AQW 16853/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on mobile breast screening services, including any delays or backlog currently being experienced.","answerText":"Following a 4 month pause due to Covid-19 the Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme resumed in July 2020. Outside of the Belfast Trust, most screening mammograms are carried out on mobile breast screening trailers. These units are working hard to reduce the backlog by providing extra clinics during evenings and weekends, whilst ensuring the recovery of the programme does not compromise on quality.\n\nOver 25,000 women who had their screening delayed due to this pause were offered a screening appointment by the end of September 2020.\n\nThere is a backlog of 7,390 women waiting for breast screening across the four breast screening units, including mobile and static sites.","answerHtml":"Following a 4 month pause due to Covid-19 the Northern Ireland Breast Screening Programme resumed in July 2020. Outside of the Belfast Trust, most screening mammograms are carried out on mobile breast screening trailers. These units are working hard to reduce the backlog by providing extra clinics during evenings and weekends, whilst ensuring the recovery of the programme does not compromise on quality.
Over 25,000 women who had their screening delayed due to this pause were offered a screening appointment by the end of September 2020.
There is a backlog of 7,390 women waiting for breast screening across the four breast screening units, including mobile and static sites.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016853%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332480"}},{"id":"332479","reference":"AQW 16852/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the expansion options considered in Coleraine so all nursery pupils with special educational needs can be given a place at a school in the town for the academic year 2021/22; and (ii) what plans will be put in place to accommodate increased numbers of nursery pupils with special educational needs in Coleraine for the academic year 2022/23.","answerText":"There are no actions in the current area plan in relation to the expansion of nursery provision in Coleraine. The Education Authority’s (EA) Pre-School Education Group (PEG) is responsible for securing sufficient mainstream pre-school education provision in local areas to meet demand for target-age children. The EA has advised that there is currently sufficient provision to meet demand in the Coleraine area, with 340 funded pre-school places available and with 268 first preference applications received.\n\nAny request for new or additional statutory pre-school education provision would require the publication of a Development Proposal, in line with the relevant statutory processes. The EA is currently consulting on two draft Area Planning Frameworks, which are open until 12 April 2021 and aim to provide a consistent regional approach to provision and which will help to inform future Area Planning priorities.","answerHtml":"There are no actions in the current area plan in relation to the expansion of nursery provision in Coleraine. The Education Authority’s (EA) Pre-School Education Group (PEG) is responsible for securing sufficient mainstream pre-school education provision in local areas to meet demand for target-age children. The EA has advised that there is currently sufficient provision to meet demand in the Coleraine area, with 340 funded pre-school places available and with 268 first preference applications received.
Any request for new or additional statutory pre-school education provision would require the publication of a Development Proposal, in line with the relevant statutory processes. The EA is currently consulting on two draft Area Planning Frameworks, which are open until 12 April 2021 and aim to provide a consistent regional approach to provision and which will help to inform future Area Planning priorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016852%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332479"}},{"id":"332577","reference":"AQO 1916/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-25","answerBy":"2021-04-20","answered":"2021-04-20","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will review working from home arrangements for the Northern Ireland Civil Service post pandemic.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"With your permission, a LeasCheann Comhairle, I will group questions 2 and 11. I place on record my continued thanks to civil servants for their hard work and flexibility in response to the challenges of delivering services during the pandemic. At very short notice this time last year, the majority of civil servants moved from the office to homeworking as the pandemic emerged. I am encouraged by feedback from my Department on the positive impact of homeworking on many of our staff, who feel that they now have a better balance between work and home commitments. Responsibility for the performance and productivity of all staff, including those who work from home, rests with managers in each of the Departments. Staff in the Department of Finance have continued to deliver essential services while also delivering to thousands of businesses unprecedented support through COVID funding, including rates relief, a range of business grants and support for airports and hospices. The Civil Service will adopt a blended approach to home and remote working, which will depend on the individual departmental requirements and job role. A remote and homeworking policy is being developed in consultation with trade unions. The Department also recently announced plans for a number of Civil Service regional hubs. These will enable civil servants to work closer to home, reduce travel time and promote regional economic balance."},{"speaker":"Ms Bunting","text":"With your indulgence, Mr Deputy Speaker, I will take this opportunity to condemn the attack on a police officer. It is important, as a member of the Policing Board, that I do that and send our best wishes to her and her family. It is clear that working from home cannot continue ad infinitum. Given the need to open the economy and instil confidence in the community, and given the extent of the vaccine roll-out, should the Civil Service not lead by example and return those who do not fall into a vulnerable category to the workplace as quickly as possible?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"First, any return to the workplace will be guided by the health advice that the Executive as a whole will agree. The advice from the Department of Health and the health adviser in the Executive is still to work from home where possible, so that continues to be the case. Undoubtedly, the whole experience of the pandemic has accelerated a trend that was already developing in how people work, and we have to be mindful of that. Civil servants can now work in a blended situation: they can be at home, in a regional location or in headquarters. It will not significantly affect the Civil Service footprint in Belfast, for instance, as there will still be a requirement for a large number of civil servants to work out of offices. However, it changes the office accommodation requirements, and we have a responsibility to look at that. We must look at not only the benefit for individual civil servants and workers but what the Executive are required to spend on the Civil Service estate. If the nature of work is changing and technology allows more remote working, we have a duty, for the public services that we want to support, to ensure that we are not spending money on the Civil Service estate that is not required. It is a balance between all those things. No doubt, people will go back to work in the not too distant future, but we have to ensure that it is in line with the health advice and that the new way of working will, ultimately, be of benefit to public finances and individual workers."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I also put on record my condemnation of the attack in my constituency. I see opportunities in working from home. I also recognise that there might need to be a hybrid model. What savings can we identify? Moving forward, what lessons can be learned from the positive benefits for family life and for getting women back into the workplace?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"It is very hard to quantify savings. If you put out a figure, that becomes the target. This is much more than that, as the Member identified. It is about the responsibilities that people have at home and in caring situations. Perhaps, in the longer term, it will be about the willingness of people to apply for jobs that are Belfast-based and involve travelling for an hour or two a day, and it could be even more than that if they are coming from further west to work five days a week in a Department's headquarters. I have no doubt that this will change the nature of work. It will open it up more to women to whom, unfortunately, the primary caring function falls and to people who live in the further regions of this part of Ireland and who are further away from their workplace than those living in the urban centres. It will open up a lot of opportunities. It will, undoubtedly, allow us to rationalise the Civil Service and save more. It should yield savings, but that is not the primary driver behind all of this. We want a more effective and productive working environment. Regional hubs will not only allow that and contribute more to local economies but allow an exchange between local government and central government personnel to create more space for joined-up and connected government. There are real benefits to come from this. I am loath to put figures on it. It will undoubtedly yield savings, but its major importance relates to how people work and how a greater variety of people, particularly women and those who are under-represented in the Civil Service, can access potential opportunities."},{"speaker":"Mr Butler","text":"What analysis has the Department done on levels of sickness-related distress and on whether homeworking or remote working have improved productivity?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"The Department of Finance has done an analysis, or survey, of its staff. There has been an overwhelmingly positive response to homeworking across most of the Department's workforce. I am sure that that is not unique and is reflected across the Civil Service in general. With the challenges of the pandemic and lockdown, people have recognised the fact that blended working, where some work can be done from home, some in the regional hubs that will be developed, some in headquarters or some in city or town centres, affords staff more scope to manage their responsibilities. It has been positive and positively received. It accelerates lessons that were already beginning to be learned, and it will probably accelerate a response to those lessons in future workforce planning."},{"speaker":"Ms Armstrong","text":"The Minister mentioned hubs. How many people will the Connect2 hubs hold?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"That will depend, because they are all different set-ups. The Member may be more familiar with the hub in Downpatrick, which we intend to do at an earlier stage. Some are in development phase, and we are talking to some councils about future development. The initial 10 hubs in the roll-out are almost ready to go or expected to be ready within two years, I think. The response has been overwhelmingly positive, because the hubs not only allow people to work closer to home, save travel time and help to reduce carbon emissions but allow them to contribute to their local economy and manage their work-life balance better given that they are not spending as much time in cars. We will look forward to assisting and improving productivity. I expect that, when we get those 10 hubs in place, we will look at more in the future. Each one is different and probably has different accommodation requirements. They are based on studies from where people were travelling into Belfast. That focused attention on where the first run was needed. There will not be fixed desks, so it is not an alternative place to work. It is somewhere where people can work for a number of days a week."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Toole","text":"I agree with the Minister on the value of flexible working. I do not agree with the original questioner that it is something of which we should be suspicious. Will it be tied into the broader and more urgent look at the structural flaws in the Civil Service? We know that 80% of our senior civil servants are over 50, for example, and that we have high vacancy rates. How will any measures be linked to the workforce strategy to give us the Civil Service that we need in the years to come? I am sure that the Minister will not disagree that there are major, serious structural flaws in our Civil Service."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"That goes way beyond the issue of working from home, but the Minister may wish to comment."},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"It is a very broad issue, and we could spend a long time talking about it. These things are interrelated and complement each other. In the longer term, people will not need to spend a couple of hours a day travelling to work, which will allow more people and a greater variety of people, such as those who are under-represented in the Civil Service, to apply for jobs. We are looking closely at all the issues that the Member mentioned. There is a need, and a number of reports, such as the RHI report and the Audit Office report, looked at the make-up and capacity of the Civil Service. Significant work needs to be done, and we intend to bring that forward. These developments will assist with that, because they open up more opportunities for a broader range of people to be employed in the Civil Service."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201916%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332577","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2021-04-20&docID=333597#AQO%201916/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332577"}},{"id":"332357","reference":"AQW 16791/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-24","answerBy":"2021-04-12","answered":"2021-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what is the annual cost benefit breakdown of an average windmill farm, including payments made to the (i) landowner; (ii) local council; (iii) local government; and (iv) that received by the investor from OFGEM.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation is a market based scheme that operates on the basis of trading Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) across all regions of the UK. It is not a grant support scheme.\n\nThe price that individual station operators receive for their ROCs and details of capital and operational costs is commercially sensitive information which is not held by the Department.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation is a market based scheme that operates on the basis of trading Renewable Obligation Certificates (ROCs) across all regions of the UK. It is not a grant support scheme.
The price that individual station operators receive for their ROCs and details of capital and operational costs is commercially sensitive information which is not held by the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016791%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332357"}},{"id":"332356","reference":"AQW 16790/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-24","answerBy":"2021-04-12","answered":"2021-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) how often reviews are carried out to ensure that Northern Ireland is meeting the objectives of the purpose of installing windfarms; (ii) in particular with regard to driving consumer costs down; and (iii) the level of savings passed on to the consumer from windfarms.","answerText":"The installation of windfarms supports the objective of increasing the percentage of electricity consumption from renewable sources. The Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation (NIRO) has been the main support mechanism for renewable electricity generation in Northern Ireland. The scheme is technology neutral and there are no objectives explicit to windfarms.\n\nProgress towards meeting (and exceeding) the target of having 40% of electricity consumption from renewable sources has been reflected in quarterly reports on Electricity Consumption & Renewable Generation, published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency.\n\nDomestic electricity prices in NI are lower than in Great Britain and Ireland, and lower than the EU median. Similarly, industrial and commercial electricity prices remain competitive and lower than in Great Britain.","answerHtml":"The installation of windfarms supports the objective of increasing the percentage of electricity consumption from renewable sources. The Northern Ireland Renewables Obligation (NIRO) has been the main support mechanism for renewable electricity generation in Northern Ireland. The scheme is technology neutral and there are no objectives explicit to windfarms.
Progress towards meeting (and exceeding) the target of having 40% of electricity consumption from renewable sources has been reflected in quarterly reports on Electricity Consumption & Renewable Generation, published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency.
Domestic electricity prices in NI are lower than in Great Britain and Ireland, and lower than the EU median. Similarly, industrial and commercial electricity prices remain competitive and lower than in Great Britain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016790%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332356"}},{"id":"332355","reference":"AQW 16789/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-24","answerBy":"2021-04-12","answered":"2021-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the reasons for the continued closure of SureStart; (ii) the estimated timeframe for the re-opening of services; and (iii) to detail the conversations he has had with other Executive Ministers regarding this issue.","answerText":"All SureStart projects have continued to provide a level of support to parents and children throughout the pandemic. When they were required to stop providing group support on-site at certain points they continued to provide many activities online, including: breast feeding support groups; parents and toddlers sessions; sensory play; story and rhyme; tiny talkers; incredible babies; baby massage and healthy cooking. SureStart staff also carried out garden gate visits, provided one to one support in centre or by phone for vulnerable children and families, and supported families to access resources where appropriate. On 25 March 2021, it was announced that all SureStart services for children aged 0-4 could recommence with immediate effect.","answerHtml":"All SureStart projects have continued to provide a level of support to parents and children throughout the pandemic. When they were required to stop providing group support on-site at certain points they continued to provide many activities online, including: breast feeding support groups; parents and toddlers sessions; sensory play; story and rhyme; tiny talkers; incredible babies; baby massage and healthy cooking. SureStart staff also carried out garden gate visits, provided one to one support in centre or by phone for vulnerable children and families, and supported families to access resources where appropriate. On 25 March 2021, it was announced that all SureStart services for children aged 0-4 could recommence with immediate effect.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016789%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332355"}},{"id":"332354","reference":"AQW 16788/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-24","answerBy":"2021-04-12","answered":"2021-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what powers he has to include particular groups for priority vaccinations.","answerText":"The member will be aware that the vaccination programme in Northern Ireland follows the guidance on priority groups given by JCVI.\n\nJCVI have advised the best option for preventing mortality in the initial phase of the programme is to directly protect persons most at risk of morbidity and mortality. As these risks increase exponentially with age, JCVI conclude the optimal strategy is to offer vaccination to older age groups having first protected residents and staff in care homes and health and social care systems.","answerHtml":"The member will be aware that the vaccination programme in Northern Ireland follows the guidance on priority groups given by JCVI.
JCVI have advised the best option for preventing mortality in the initial phase of the programme is to directly protect persons most at risk of morbidity and mortality. As these risks increase exponentially with age, JCVI conclude the optimal strategy is to offer vaccination to older age groups having first protected residents and staff in care homes and health and social care systems.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016788%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332354"}},{"id":"332212","reference":"AQW 16738/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-23","answerBy":"2021-04-09","answered":"2021-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the processes used to cumulatively assess the provision of windfarms in Northern Ireland; and (ii) at what stage would it be considered an over saturation for the relevant local environment.","answerText":"(i) Under the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and Planning Policy Statement 18: Renewable Energy, applications for wind energy development are required to demonstrate that the development will not have an unacceptable impact on visual amenity or landscape character, and that the development has taken into consideration the cumulative impact of existing wind turbines, i.e. those which have permissions and those that are currently the subject of valid but undetermined applications. The supplementary planning guidance ‘Wind Energy Development in Northern Ireland’s Landscapes’ is also taken into account in assessing all wind turbine proposals. This document identifies landscape characteristics that may be sensitive to wind turbine development and provides guidance on the landscape and visual analysis process, and the indicative type of development that may be appropriate.\n\nInformation on landscape and visual impact and an assessment of cumulative impacts are generally prepared by the applicant and submitted to accompany a planning application, for example as part of an Environmental Statement. The Planning Authority will evaluate that information, carry out a site visit and reach its own consideration of the proposal.\n\n(ii) A planning application for a particular windfarm could be refused on the grounds that it would result in unacceptable adverse impact on visual amenity and landscape character by reason of the cumulative effects of the development in addition to other existing wind farms in the locality. However as each landscape is unique and has different characteristics, it is not possible to stipulate the stage at which a local environment could reach saturation point. Each proposal is considered on its own individual merits taking into account all material planning considerations, including planning policy.","answerHtml":"(i) Under the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS) and Planning Policy Statement 18: Renewable Energy, applications for wind energy development are required to demonstrate that the development will not have an unacceptable impact on visual amenity or landscape character, and that the development has taken into consideration the cumulative impact of existing wind turbines, i.e. those which have permissions and those that are currently the subject of valid but undetermined applications. The supplementary planning guidance ‘Wind Energy Development in Northern Ireland’s Landscapes’ is also taken into account in assessing all wind turbine proposals. This document identifies landscape characteristics that may be sensitive to wind turbine development and provides guidance on the landscape and visual analysis process, and the indicative type of development that may be appropriate.
Information on landscape and visual impact and an assessment of cumulative impacts are generally prepared by the applicant and submitted to accompany a planning application, for example as part of an Environmental Statement. The Planning Authority will evaluate that information, carry out a site visit and reach its own consideration of the proposal.
(ii) A planning application for a particular windfarm could be refused on the grounds that it would result in unacceptable adverse impact on visual amenity and landscape character by reason of the cumulative effects of the development in addition to other existing wind farms in the locality. However as each landscape is unique and has different characteristics, it is not possible to stipulate the stage at which a local environment could reach saturation point. Each proposal is considered on its own individual merits taking into account all material planning considerations, including planning policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016738%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332212","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332212"}},{"id":"332211","reference":"AQW 16737/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-23","answerBy":"2021-04-09","answered":"2021-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 15228/17-22, to detail any other schools in East Londonderry being considered for a temporary speed limit reduction outside their premises, not including the 104 already identified.","answerText":"I was delighted to have been able to commit funding from the 2020/2021 capital budget towards introduction of part-time 20 mph speed limits at 103 schools. These measures increase driver awareness and achieve reductions in vehicle speeds outside and near these schools ensuring that parents, children and staff will be safer as they go to and from the schools on a daily basis.\n\nGiven the restricted budgets for works of this nature, as well as the practicalities of delivery, it was necessary to limit the number of schools to around 100 in the original programme. I do intend to take forward a further tranche of part-time speed limits at schools and the remaining schools within your constituency will be considered for inclusion in future programmes, the extent of which will be dependent on the funding made available for works of this nature in the 2021/22 financial year and beyond.","answerHtml":"I was delighted to have been able to commit funding from the 2020/2021 capital budget towards introduction of part-time 20 mph speed limits at 103 schools. These measures increase driver awareness and achieve reductions in vehicle speeds outside and near these schools ensuring that parents, children and staff will be safer as they go to and from the schools on a daily basis.
Given the restricted budgets for works of this nature, as well as the practicalities of delivery, it was necessary to limit the number of schools to around 100 in the original programme. I do intend to take forward a further tranche of part-time speed limits at schools and the remaining schools within your constituency will be considered for inclusion in future programmes, the extent of which will be dependent on the funding made available for works of this nature in the 2021/22 financial year and beyond.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016737%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332211"}},{"id":"332210","reference":"AQW 16736/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-23","answerBy":"2021-04-09","answered":"2021-04-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 15130/17-22, (i) whether his Department collects any data on Post Traumatuic Stress Disorder PTSD; (ii) the reasons for this; (iii) for his assessment of PTSD in Northern Ireland; and (iv) what plans he has to address this issue.","answerText":"I recognise that the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can have a significant impact on a person’s day-to-day life. Services for individuals with a potential diagnosis of PTSD are offered on both a regional and trust level.\n\nMy Department does not routinely collect data on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) but instead uses latest academic research to help inform service planning and delivery, as required. Going forward, the proposed Regional Trauma Network will further complement existing support services by providing a quality trauma service to further address and treat this cohort of individuals as well as assist with data collection on PTSD.","answerHtml":"I recognise that the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) can have a significant impact on a person’s day-to-day life. Services for individuals with a potential diagnosis of PTSD are offered on both a regional and trust level.
My Department does not routinely collect data on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) but instead uses latest academic research to help inform service planning and delivery, as required. Going forward, the proposed Regional Trauma Network will further complement existing support services by providing a quality trauma service to further address and treat this cohort of individuals as well as assist with data collection on PTSD.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016736%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332210"}},{"id":"332209","reference":"AQW 16735/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-23","answerBy":"2021-04-09","answered":"2021-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps he is taking to ensure the mental and physical wellbeing of frontline medical staff that have experienced increased stress, trauma or other illness due to their working environment of the past year.","answerText":"Covid-19 has placed an enormous strain on our Health professionals within all sectors of the health care setting – they staff have played a vital role, and continue to do so, in dealing with the additional demands being placed on them. I have put on record my wholehearted appreciation for the significant contribution they have made during the pandemic.\n\nMy Department has worked alongside colleagues in the HSC to coordinate a comprehensive response to the psychological impact of the coronavirus pandemic, both in the immediate and longer term.\n\nA Regional Staff Wellbeing Work stream was initiated in response to Covid-19, and has worked closely with colleagues within Mental Health services at the Health and Social Care Board, officials within my Department, and with colleagues in the PHA to build resources and support for staff.\n\nIn April 2020, I launched “Supporting the Well-being Needs of our Health and Social Care Staff during COVID-19: A Framework for Leaders and Managers”. The measures within the framework include a range of initiatives across organisations, which will support psychological well-being of staff, with an aim to preventing the development of mental health difficulties, including PTSD, in the aftermath of the pandemic, and to allowing early identification and intervention to be available in the aftermath period.\n\nIt is vitally important to ensure that all staff and volunteers, irrespective of where they work, have access to the information and support they may need over the coming months. In situations where specific individual help is needed, this is available through the Occupational Health arrangements in each Trust.\n\nAll HSC trusts have in place a variety of measures to support staff emotional health and wellbeing. These range from psychological support helplines, reading resources, videos, and mindfulness relaxation exercises, to opportunities to come together as teams, to reflect on the challenges and losses they have experienced, and continue to face, to the potential to seek individual support as required.","answerHtml":"Covid-19 has placed an enormous strain on our Health professionals within all sectors of the health care setting – they staff have played a vital role, and continue to do so, in dealing with the additional demands being placed on them. I have put on record my wholehearted appreciation for the significant contribution they have made during the pandemic.
My Department has worked alongside colleagues in the HSC to coordinate a comprehensive response to the psychological impact of the coronavirus pandemic, both in the immediate and longer term.
A Regional Staff Wellbeing Work stream was initiated in response to Covid-19, and has worked closely with colleagues within Mental Health services at the Health and Social Care Board, officials within my Department, and with colleagues in the PHA to build resources and support for staff.
In April 2020, I launched “Supporting the Well-being Needs of our Health and Social Care Staff during COVID-19: A Framework for Leaders and Managers”. The measures within the framework include a range of initiatives across organisations, which will support psychological well-being of staff, with an aim to preventing the development of mental health difficulties, including PTSD, in the aftermath of the pandemic, and to allowing early identification and intervention to be available in the aftermath period.
It is vitally important to ensure that all staff and volunteers, irrespective of where they work, have access to the information and support they may need over the coming months. In situations where specific individual help is needed, this is available through the Occupational Health arrangements in each Trust.
All HSC trusts have in place a variety of measures to support staff emotional health and wellbeing. These range from psychological support helplines, reading resources, videos, and mindfulness relaxation exercises, to opportunities to come together as teams, to reflect on the challenges and losses they have experienced, and continue to face, to the potential to seek individual support as required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016735%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332209"}},{"id":"332208","reference":"AQW 16734/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-23","answerBy":"2021-04-09","answered":"2021-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) whether the 705 businesses contacted to make an application to the Wet Pubs Business Support Scheme represents an exhaustive list of those that were considered eligible; (ii) the criteria used to create this list; (iii) how many of the 565 applications for the scheme were successful; (iv) the reasons why the unsuccessful applicants were deemed ineligible; and (v) what other efforts were made to encourage wet pubs to apply for the scheme.","answerText":"In order to qualify for the Wet Pubs Business Support Scheme (WPBSS) a business must first had to have been in receipt of Localised Restrictions Support Scheme (LRSS). My Department has a Data Sharing Agreement in place with Land & Property Services and the verification team were provided with all properties who identified as a wet pub and were successful in their LRSS application. Departmental officials also conducted an investigation of LRSS data to identify any potential applicants who may have indicated that they were in a different sector.\n\nThe criteria for eligibility, after it had been established that a business was in receipt of LRSS, was that the business must have been actively trading before they were forced to close due to the COVID-19 regulations and the business had to have been closed for at least one full week during the eligible period, 4 July to 22 September 2020. Once the verification team were satisfied that a business had met this criteria they were included in the list of businesses who were invited to apply.\n\nTo date my Department has received 577 valid applications with 412 payments made. There are various reasons why an application would be deemed ineligible and to date for this scheme there have been the following:\n\n•Ceased trading,\n\n•Unwilling to provide supporting evidence,\n\n•Unable to provide completed supplementary information form and supporting evidence,\n\n•Applicant believed they are ineligible,\n\n•Continued to trade / beer garden/ restaurant,\n\n•Did not provide bank statements,\n\n•Do not permit entry to non-members,\n\n•Does not wish to receive support for period in question,\n\n•Failed to provide sufficient evidence,\n\n•No longer leaseholder,\n\n•No response,\n\n•No wish to proceed/ application withdrawn,\n\n•Not eligible for LRSS,\n\n•Not trading prior to lockdown,\n\n•Rejected as closure period was under previous owner,\n\n•Unable to provide evidence of trading pre-covid.\n\nWhilst this scheme was an invite only application process, the industry were made aware of the WPBSS through the announcement I made on 18 December 2020 which received extensive media coverage. In addition, my officials engaged with sector representatives from Hospitality Ulster to raise awareness of the scheme amongst their membership. Details of the scheme were also published on the NI Business Information website with contact details provided for any enquiries.","answerHtml":"In order to qualify for the Wet Pubs Business Support Scheme (WPBSS) a business must first had to have been in receipt of Localised Restrictions Support Scheme (LRSS). My Department has a Data Sharing Agreement in place with Land & Property Services and the verification team were provided with all properties who identified as a wet pub and were successful in their LRSS application. Departmental officials also conducted an investigation of LRSS data to identify any potential applicants who may have indicated that they were in a different sector.
The criteria for eligibility, after it had been established that a business was in receipt of LRSS, was that the business must have been actively trading before they were forced to close due to the COVID-19 regulations and the business had to have been closed for at least one full week during the eligible period, 4 July to 22 September 2020. Once the verification team were satisfied that a business had met this criteria they were included in the list of businesses who were invited to apply.
To date my Department has received 577 valid applications with 412 payments made. There are various reasons why an application would be deemed ineligible and to date for this scheme there have been the following:
•Ceased trading,
•Unwilling to provide supporting evidence,
•Unable to provide completed supplementary information form and supporting evidence,
•Applicant believed they are ineligible,
•Continued to trade / beer garden/ restaurant,
•Did not provide bank statements,
•Do not permit entry to non-members,
•Does not wish to receive support for period in question,
•Failed to provide sufficient evidence,
•No longer leaseholder,
•No response,
•No wish to proceed/ application withdrawn,
•Not eligible for LRSS,
•Not trading prior to lockdown,
•Rejected as closure period was under previous owner,
•Unable to provide evidence of trading pre-covid.
Whilst this scheme was an invite only application process, the industry were made aware of the WPBSS through the announcement I made on 18 December 2020 which received extensive media coverage. In addition, my officials engaged with sector representatives from Hospitality Ulster to raise awareness of the scheme amongst their membership. Details of the scheme were also published on the NI Business Information website with contact details provided for any enquiries.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016734%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332208"}},{"id":"332064","reference":"AQW 16660/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-22","answerBy":"2021-04-08","answered":"2021-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure in relation to planning decisions, to detail (i) the acknowledged detrimental effects of windfarms on residents living within an (a) five-mile; and (b) ten-mile radius; and (ii) the results of any research that has been carried out regarding noise pollution created by windfarms.","answerText":"The impacts of windfarms on residents living within an (a) five-mile; and (b) ten-mile radius will vary from proposal to proposal. However, I can advise that each planning application for a wind farm is assessed on its own merits. In most cases such applications are accompanied by an Environmental Statement which addresses the likely significant effects of the wind farm on sensitive receptors and the wider environment. These impacts are assessed against the relevant local area plan and planning policies before the determining authority reaches a decision on the planning application.\n\nMy Department is unaware of research results regarding noise pollution created by windfarms in NI.","answerHtml":"The impacts of windfarms on residents living within an (a) five-mile; and (b) ten-mile radius will vary from proposal to proposal. However, I can advise that each planning application for a wind farm is assessed on its own merits. In most cases such applications are accompanied by an Environmental Statement which addresses the likely significant effects of the wind farm on sensitive receptors and the wider environment. These impacts are assessed against the relevant local area plan and planning policies before the determining authority reaches a decision on the planning application.
My Department is unaware of research results regarding noise pollution created by windfarms in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016660%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332064"}},{"id":"332063","reference":"AQW 16659/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-22","answerBy":"2021-04-08","answered":"2021-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the checks carried out on windfarms to ensure that all mitigations in their planning approval have been adhered to, both initially and throughout their operation; and (ii) how much consideration is given to the protection of Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and historic monuments when approving windfarm planning applications.","answerText":"Conditions attached to any planning permission for windfarms generally reflect the parameters of the proposal and mitigation proposed by the developer via submissions including the Environmental Impact Assessment. As such, conditions should not pose any unfamiliar or unnecessary burden and compliance is therefore anticipated. It is the responsibility of applicants to implement their planning permission in accordance with the conditions stipulated. However, where breaches are apparent, either initially or throughout the operational period of a windfarm, enforcement action under the provisions of the Planning (Act) NI 2011 can be commenced.\n\nProposals for windfarms within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and affecting historic monuments or their settings are assessed against the relevant policies in Planning Policy Statement (PPS) 2: Natural Heritage, PPS 6: Planning Archaeology and the Built Heritage, PPS 18: Renewable Energy and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS).","answerHtml":"Conditions attached to any planning permission for windfarms generally reflect the parameters of the proposal and mitigation proposed by the developer via submissions including the Environmental Impact Assessment. As such, conditions should not pose any unfamiliar or unnecessary burden and compliance is therefore anticipated. It is the responsibility of applicants to implement their planning permission in accordance with the conditions stipulated. However, where breaches are apparent, either initially or throughout the operational period of a windfarm, enforcement action under the provisions of the Planning (Act) NI 2011 can be commenced.
Proposals for windfarms within Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and affecting historic monuments or their settings are assessed against the relevant policies in Planning Policy Statement (PPS) 2: Natural Heritage, PPS 6: Planning Archaeology and the Built Heritage, PPS 18: Renewable Energy and the Strategic Planning Policy Statement (SPPS).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016659%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332063","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332063"}},{"id":"332062","reference":"AQW 16658/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-22","answerBy":"2021-04-08","answered":"2021-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail their plans for allowing increased numbers to attend civil and religious wedding ceremonies, including (i) timescale; and (ii) the expected numbers allowed.","answerText":"The number permitted to attend weddings and civil partnerships is to be informed by a risk assessment for the venue.\n\nFace coverings must be worn by all unless exempt, other than those in the marriage party.\n\nReceptions or post ceremony gatherings are not permitted.\n\nCustomers can also view the facilities of venues used for marriages and civil partnerships, such as hotels and other venues, restricted to a maximum of four customers per visit.\n\nAn indicative date of 24 May has been set for the resumption of post ceremony receptions or functions (numbers to be informed by a risk assessment for the venue). This will be subject to review.\n\nInformation on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you","answerHtml":"The number permitted to attend weddings and civil partnerships is to be informed by a risk assessment for the venue.
Face coverings must be worn by all unless exempt, other than those in the marriage party.
Receptions or post ceremony gatherings are not permitted.
Customers can also view the facilities of venues used for marriages and civil partnerships, such as hotels and other venues, restricted to a maximum of four customers per visit.
An indicative date of 24 May has been set for the resumption of post ceremony receptions or functions (numbers to be informed by a risk assessment for the venue). This will be subject to review.
Information on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016658%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332062","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332062"}},{"id":"332061","reference":"AQW 16657/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-22","answerBy":"2021-04-08","answered":"2021-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the percentage of the overall green energy target for Northern Ireland to which windfarms contribute; and (ii) how this figure is anticipated to change in future under current plans.","answerText":"The Executive’s renewable electricity target to achieve 40 per cent of electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2020 was exceeded 2 years early. Indeed, the most recent statistics published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) confirm that, for the year ending 31 December 2020, 49.2 per cent of total electricity consumption was generated from renewable sources.\n\nAlthough the 40 percent target was not technology specific, the NISRA publication also confirms that, for the 12 month period ending 31 December 2020, 84.9 per cent of all renewable electricity was generated from onshore wind – link below.\n\nhttps://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/electricity-consumption-and-renewable-generation-statistics\n\nI announced in September last year that any new renewable electricity consumption target should not be below 70% by 2030. Whilst it is not possible to accurately predict the level of generation from any technology in the future, it is anticipated that onshore wind will continue to make a major contribution.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s renewable electricity target to achieve 40 per cent of electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2020 was exceeded 2 years early. Indeed, the most recent statistics published by the Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency (NISRA) confirm that, for the year ending 31 December 2020, 49.2 per cent of total electricity consumption was generated from renewable sources.
Although the 40 percent target was not technology specific, the NISRA publication also confirms that, for the 12 month period ending 31 December 2020, 84.9 per cent of all renewable electricity was generated from onshore wind – link below.
https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/articles/electricity-consumption-and-renewable-generation-statistics
I announced in September last year that any new renewable electricity consumption target should not be below 70% by 2030. Whilst it is not possible to accurately predict the level of generation from any technology in the future, it is anticipated that onshore wind will continue to make a major contribution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016657%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332061","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332061"}},{"id":"332060","reference":"AQW 16656/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-22","answerBy":"2021-04-08","answered":"2021-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the amount of energy, in cost and power, bought by Northern Ireland from peat-powered power plants based in the Republic of Ireland in each of the past five years.","answerText":"The Single Electricity Market (SEM) is the wholesale market for the trading of electricity on the island of Ireland. All generators with an output above 10MW operating in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland must participate in the SEM where their electricity is traded. Suppliers in both NI and the Republic of Ireland then purchase their energy in this same market.\n\nGiven the nature of these arrangements, electricity bought by individual suppliers in the market is not broken down and attributed to individual generators.\n\nThe most recent statistics from the 2018 Electricity Supplier Fuel Mix indicated that 5% of the total electricity generation in the SEM was produced by peat generation. The last peat burning power station in Ireland, Lough Ree power plant at Lanesborough on the Longford-Roscommon border, ceased production on 18th December 2020.","answerHtml":"The Single Electricity Market (SEM) is the wholesale market for the trading of electricity on the island of Ireland. All generators with an output above 10MW operating in Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland must participate in the SEM where their electricity is traded. Suppliers in both NI and the Republic of Ireland then purchase their energy in this same market.
Given the nature of these arrangements, electricity bought by individual suppliers in the market is not broken down and attributed to individual generators.
The most recent statistics from the 2018 Electricity Supplier Fuel Mix indicated that 5% of the total electricity generation in the SEM was produced by peat generation. The last peat burning power station in Ireland, Lough Ree power plant at Lanesborough on the Longford-Roscommon border, ceased production on 18th December 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016656%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=332060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=332060"}},{"id":"331857","reference":"AQW 16609/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-19","answerBy":"2021-04-07","answered":"2021-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the properties their Department owns in East Londonderry that are currently unused; (ii) the annual cost of maintaining them; and (iii) whether any alternative uses are being considered.","answerText":"The Executive Office currently does not own any properties in East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office currently does not own any properties in East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016609%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331857"}},{"id":"331856","reference":"AQW 16608/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-19","answerBy":"2021-04-07","answered":"2021-04-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the correspondence he has had with care providers in order to facilitate face-to-face visits for residents and their families; and for his assessment of the difficulties currently faced by relatives trying to visit loved ones in care homes.","answerText":"Guidance for nursing and residential care homes in Northern Ireland was first issued on 17 March 2020 and an updated version issued on 26 April 2020, which detailed information for the care home sector regarding visiting restrictions and included advice about visiting at end of life. This guidance continues to be updated in line with scientific advice.\n\nGuidance on the principles for visiting in care settings including care partner arrangements, was published on 23rd September. Supplementary information was provided on 13th November with a letter issued to providers and Trusts the same day.\n\nThere continues to be a significant number of families who still feel they have not been able to visit their relatives with any kind of regularity or be in a position to set up care partner arrangements, in line with regional guidance. It is my stated position that care home visiting and the utilisation of care partners’ support can be safely facilitated through compliance with the regional principles for visiting in care settings that are clearly set out in the existing guidance.\n\nI understand that some providers remain cautious about permitting visiting based on their experiences to date of managing the transmission and the impact of COVID-19 but with the support of Trusts, PHA, HSCB and the RQIA, we are keen to allay those fears.\n\nGuidance provided by my Department sets out the approach as to how safely managed visiting can be achieved as well as a clear expectation that where possible the care partner role will be facilitated should families wish to avail of it. Where homes are seeking to implement visiting and care partner guidance, funding is available to them. In addition, local Trusts will continue to engage with care homes to assist in the implementation of visiting guidance.\n\nThe RQIA will also assess the approach being used when undertaking inspections of residential and nursing homes, and consider compliance against the relevant care standards.\n\nThe most recent letter issued to the sector in April 2021 by the Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Social Work Officer underlines these points and provides additional clarity.\n\nI can also confirm that under the auspices of the PHA, a ‘Moving Towards Normalised Care Home Visiting in Northern Ireland Task and Finish Group’ has been established. The purpose of the Group is to develop an approach, for my endorsement, which will support a safe and proportionate return to normalised care home visiting as restrictions in Northern Ireland are eased from April 2021.\n\nThe Grouping is made up of representatives from the:-\n\nHSCB, PHA, RQIA, Trusts, COPNI and PCC;\n\nDepartmental policy Directorates;\n\nRepresentatives from various relatives Groupings; and\n\nthe Independent Healthcare Providers\n\nAs the Group’s work is progressed support for the sector in facilitating visiting and establishing and maintaining Care Partners arrangements will continue.","answerHtml":"Guidance for nursing and residential care homes in Northern Ireland was first issued on 17 March 2020 and an updated version issued on 26 April 2020, which detailed information for the care home sector regarding visiting restrictions and included advice about visiting at end of life. This guidance continues to be updated in line with scientific advice.
Guidance on the principles for visiting in care settings including care partner arrangements, was published on 23rd September. Supplementary information was provided on 13th November with a letter issued to providers and Trusts the same day.
There continues to be a significant number of families who still feel they have not been able to visit their relatives with any kind of regularity or be in a position to set up care partner arrangements, in line with regional guidance. It is my stated position that care home visiting and the utilisation of care partners’ support can be safely facilitated through compliance with the regional principles for visiting in care settings that are clearly set out in the existing guidance.
I understand that some providers remain cautious about permitting visiting based on their experiences to date of managing the transmission and the impact of COVID-19 but with the support of Trusts, PHA, HSCB and the RQIA, we are keen to allay those fears.
Guidance provided by my Department sets out the approach as to how safely managed visiting can be achieved as well as a clear expectation that where possible the care partner role will be facilitated should families wish to avail of it. Where homes are seeking to implement visiting and care partner guidance, funding is available to them. In addition, local Trusts will continue to engage with care homes to assist in the implementation of visiting guidance.
The RQIA will also assess the approach being used when undertaking inspections of residential and nursing homes, and consider compliance against the relevant care standards.
The most recent letter issued to the sector in April 2021 by the Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Social Work Officer underlines these points and provides additional clarity.
I can also confirm that under the auspices of the PHA, a ‘Moving Towards Normalised Care Home Visiting in Northern Ireland Task and Finish Group’ has been established. The purpose of the Group is to develop an approach, for my endorsement, which will support a safe and proportionate return to normalised care home visiting as restrictions in Northern Ireland are eased from April 2021.
The Grouping is made up of representatives from the:-
HSCB, PHA, RQIA, Trusts, COPNI and PCC;
Departmental policy Directorates;
Representatives from various relatives Groupings; and
the Independent Healthcare Providers
As the Group’s work is progressed support for the sector in facilitating visiting and establishing and maintaining Care Partners arrangements will continue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016608%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331856","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331856"}},{"id":"331855","reference":"AQW 16607/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-19","answerBy":"2021-04-07","answered":"2021-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to ensure greater co-operation and synergy between addiction and mental health services; and for his assessment of the current working relationship between these two services.","answerText":"I am fully aware that many mental health issues can be more complex and difficult to address where a person also has a dependency on alcohol or drugs, or vice versa. The treatment of co-occurring mental health and substance use problems, frequently called “Dual Diagnosis”, is an issue that was raised prominently during the recent consultation on my Department’s new Substance Use Strategy and on the early development of our new Mental Health Strategy.\n\nResponses highlighted the need to develop a more holistic treatment system to provide patient-centred care structured around the needs of individual service users.\n\nThis is why the draft Mental Health Strategy, currently out for public consultation, contains an action to create a Managed Care Network for Dual Diagnosis. This has similarly been highlighted under the priorities section of the draft Substance Use Strategy. The aim being that those with mental health and addiction issues will get the best care and treatment available. It is anticipated that both these strategies will be finalised in the near future, following analysis of the consultation responses.","answerHtml":"I am fully aware that many mental health issues can be more complex and difficult to address where a person also has a dependency on alcohol or drugs, or vice versa. The treatment of co-occurring mental health and substance use problems, frequently called “Dual Diagnosis”, is an issue that was raised prominently during the recent consultation on my Department’s new Substance Use Strategy and on the early development of our new Mental Health Strategy.
Responses highlighted the need to develop a more holistic treatment system to provide patient-centred care structured around the needs of individual service users.
This is why the draft Mental Health Strategy, currently out for public consultation, contains an action to create a Managed Care Network for Dual Diagnosis. This has similarly been highlighted under the priorities section of the draft Substance Use Strategy. The aim being that those with mental health and addiction issues will get the best care and treatment available. It is anticipated that both these strategies will be finalised in the near future, following analysis of the consultation responses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016607%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331855","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331855"}},{"id":"331854","reference":"AQW 16606/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-19","answerBy":"2021-04-07","answered":"2021-08-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 15396/17-22, (i) whether dentists or the British Dental Association were consulted about their needs prior to the purchase and delivery of personal protection equipment (PPE) that was deemed unusable by dentists; and (ii) to detail the cost of this PPE.","answerText":"In relation to the first part of your question, neither I nor my officials are aware of claims that the level 1 PPE purchased and delivered to General Dental Practitioners in Northern Ireland in July 2020 was unusable. However, I would be grateful to receive any further information in regard to this matter if you are able to provide it.\n\nThe cost of the level 1 PPE that was delivered to Northern Ireland dental practices in July 2020 was £915,960.22","answerHtml":"In relation to the first part of your question, neither I nor my officials are aware of claims that the level 1 PPE purchased and delivered to General Dental Practitioners in Northern Ireland in July 2020 was unusable. However, I would be grateful to receive any further information in regard to this matter if you are able to provide it.
The cost of the level 1 PPE that was delivered to Northern Ireland dental practices in July 2020 was £915,960.22
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016606%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331854","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331854"}},{"id":"331853","reference":"AQW 16605/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-19","answerBy":"2021-04-07","answered":"2021-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 15819/17-22, (i) whether the planned strategic area plan for special schools and specialist provision in mainstream, and any accompanying improvements, will be completed in time to help pupils in the 2021-22 school year who have so far been unable to get a place at the school closest to their home; and (ii) what interim measures he is considering to help these pupils.","answerText":"As noted in AQW 15819/17-22, the Education Authority (EA) is currently consulting on two draft frameworks which set out the vision, rationale and delivery plans for special educational needs (SEN) provision in special and mainstream schools across Northern Ireland. Both consultations close on 12 April 2021.\n\nIn parallel the EA on behalf of the Department, is consulting on a pilot proposal to develop, test and agree a new process that will facilitate the establishment, closure or change of specialist provision in (sustainable) mainstream schools in an efficient and expedient manner without the requirement for a Development Proposal, but consistent with the EA’s Draft Framework for Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools. The EA are expected to submit consultation reports and amended Frameworks to the EA Board and the Department for my approval and endorsement if appropriate, in July 2021.\n\nWork continues with the EA’s Special Educational Needs Strategic Development Programme (SDP) to identify and address potential pressures for school places for children with a statement of SEN by September 2021. The EA is actively engaging with schools, both special schools and specialist provision in mainstream, to identify physical capacity to accommodate additional resource provision, especially within particular geographical areas.\n\nDepartmental officials are attending regular EA cross-service group meetings with EA Directors to monitor progress on placements for September 2021. This work is also monitored by the SEN Governance Group chaired by the Permanent Secretary.","answerHtml":"As noted in AQW 15819/17-22, the Education Authority (EA) is currently consulting on two draft frameworks which set out the vision, rationale and delivery plans for special educational needs (SEN) provision in special and mainstream schools across Northern Ireland. Both consultations close on 12 April 2021.
In parallel the EA on behalf of the Department, is consulting on a pilot proposal to develop, test and agree a new process that will facilitate the establishment, closure or change of specialist provision in (sustainable) mainstream schools in an efficient and expedient manner without the requirement for a Development Proposal, but consistent with the EA’s Draft Framework for Specialist Provision in Mainstream Schools. The EA are expected to submit consultation reports and amended Frameworks to the EA Board and the Department for my approval and endorsement if appropriate, in July 2021.
Work continues with the EA’s Special Educational Needs Strategic Development Programme (SDP) to identify and address potential pressures for school places for children with a statement of SEN by September 2021. The EA is actively engaging with schools, both special schools and specialist provision in mainstream, to identify physical capacity to accommodate additional resource provision, especially within particular geographical areas.
Departmental officials are attending regular EA cross-service group meetings with EA Directors to monitor progress on placements for September 2021. This work is also monitored by the SEN Governance Group chaired by the Permanent Secretary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016605%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331853","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331853"}},{"id":"331689","reference":"AQW 16521/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-18","answerBy":"2021-04-02","answered":"2021-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for an update on the pay negotiations with the Northern Ireland Civil Service; (ii) to detail the reasons for the delay in the awarding of a pay award; (iii) to detail the conversations he has had with NIPSA regarding this issue; and (iv) to detail the most recent pay rise offer he has made to Civil Service employees.","answerText":"Formal negotiations with recognised Trades Unions in relation to the Civil Service 2020 pay award are underway. Most recently, my officials met unions on 19 March. I also met unions on 22 March and further meetings will be scheduled over coming weeks. I am unable to provide any detail while negotiations are ongoing, however we will keep staff informed of progress through pay bulletins, which will be published on the Civil Service pay website.\n\nHowever, the Executive has agreed a pay offer and although it is not possible to provide a timeline, I hope that discussions on this issue can be brought to a conclusion in the very near future. Staff due to receive an increase under the terms of any pay award will receive any arrears backdated to 1 August 2020.","answerHtml":"Formal negotiations with recognised Trades Unions in relation to the Civil Service 2020 pay award are underway. Most recently, my officials met unions on 19 March. I also met unions on 22 March and further meetings will be scheduled over coming weeks. I am unable to provide any detail while negotiations are ongoing, however we will keep staff informed of progress through pay bulletins, which will be published on the Civil Service pay website.
However, the Executive has agreed a pay offer and although it is not possible to provide a timeline, I hope that discussions on this issue can be brought to a conclusion in the very near future. Staff due to receive an increase under the terms of any pay award will receive any arrears backdated to 1 August 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016521%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331689","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331689"}},{"id":"331688","reference":"AQW 16520/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-18","answerBy":"2021-04-02","answered":"2021-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 15127/17-22, to detail (i) the legal status of live music performances; and (ii) the current rules and guidance on music performances.","answerText":"Under the current regulations live music is not permitted for licensed or unlicensed premises.\n\nMitigations are in place to support premises to adhere to the public health advice which recommends keeping noise levels low, to prevent shouting and singing and allow conversations to take place in a socially distanced way. These measures allow premises to reopen safely and reduce the risk of transmission.\n\nAs part of a package of relaxations announced by the Executive on 13 May, from 24 May outdoor gatherings with no more than 500 people, or capped at a lower number according to the risk assessment, can now take place. This includes any outdoors event, including concerts, but no food or drink may be served.\n\nTo determine maximum number that can attend, the organiser must have carried out a risk assessment. Outdoor gatherings of 30 people or fewer do not require a risk assessment. The organiser must also take all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus.\n\nA person responsible for organising a gathering must, if requested to do so by a relevant person, provide a copy of the risk assessment and an account of the reasonable measures taken.\n\nInformation on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you\n\nThe next review of the restrictions will take place on 10 June.","answerHtml":"Under the current regulations live music is not permitted for licensed or unlicensed premises.
Mitigations are in place to support premises to adhere to the public health advice which recommends keeping noise levels low, to prevent shouting and singing and allow conversations to take place in a socially distanced way. These measures allow premises to reopen safely and reduce the risk of transmission.
As part of a package of relaxations announced by the Executive on 13 May, from 24 May outdoor gatherings with no more than 500 people, or capped at a lower number according to the risk assessment, can now take place. This includes any outdoors event, including concerts, but no food or drink may be served.
To determine maximum number that can attend, the organiser must have carried out a risk assessment. Outdoor gatherings of 30 people or fewer do not require a risk assessment. The organiser must also take all reasonable measures to limit the risk of transmission of the coronavirus.
A person responsible for organising a gathering must, if requested to do so by a relevant person, provide a copy of the risk assessment and an account of the reasonable measures taken.
Information on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you
The next review of the restrictions will take place on 10 June.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016520%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331688","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331688"}},{"id":"331687","reference":"AQW 16519/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-18","answerBy":"2021-04-02","answered":"2021-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the reasons for excluding car garages from the most recent COVID-19 support grants, while including car showrooms.","answerText":"Garages are not eligible for support under the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme (LRSS) because a business providing motor vehicle repair and MOT Services is classed as essential under the Health Protection Regulations and has therefore been permitted to remain open during the period of the restrictions. Car showrooms are classed as non-essential retail and were required to close, and are therefore eligible for payment under the LRSS.\n\nIf a garage qualified for a Small Business Support Grant last year, and has not been able to avail of support through any other Executive Covid-19 support scheme, it will qualify for payment under the Small Business Top Up grant scheme which I announced on 15 March 2021.","answerHtml":"Garages are not eligible for support under the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme (LRSS) because a business providing motor vehicle repair and MOT Services is classed as essential under the Health Protection Regulations and has therefore been permitted to remain open during the period of the restrictions. Car showrooms are classed as non-essential retail and were required to close, and are therefore eligible for payment under the LRSS.
If a garage qualified for a Small Business Support Grant last year, and has not been able to avail of support through any other Executive Covid-19 support scheme, it will qualify for payment under the Small Business Top Up grant scheme which I announced on 15 March 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016519%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331687","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331687"}},{"id":"331686","reference":"AQW 16518/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-18","answerBy":"2021-04-02","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the current COVID-19 regulations on church services.","answerText":"Churches are permitted to open for acts of worship, although most made a voluntary decision to close for in-person services from 7 January 2021.\n\nIf the number of attendees exceeds the current indoor gathering limits of 6 people from more than 2 households or outdoor gatherings of 10 people from more than 2 households, including at wedding and funerals, the person responsible for organising or operating the gathering must carry out a risk assessment and put in place, implement and maintain mitigating measures to reduce the risk of virus transmission.\n\nFrom 24 May, subject to review by the Executive on 20 May, the numbers permitted for indoor gatherings, (not including domestic settings), will be as permitted by a risk assessment of the venue. Where the gathering is of more than 15 people, it must be an organised gathering with a risk assessment and mitigating measures.\n\nFace coverings are mandatory within a place of worship and when entering or leaving, except for the person leading the service and the two parties to a marriage or civil partnership.\n\nFunerals, marriages and civil partnerships have additional requirements. A person responsible for the organisation or operation of a marriage or civil partnership or the organiser or operator of the funeral or associated event must take measures to obtain visitor information either in advance or at the time of attendance. This consists of the name and telephone number of each person aged 16 years or above in attendance; the date and time of arrival; record the visitor information in a filing system; and retain visitor information for a period of 21 days beginning with the date on which the visit occurred.\n\nThe organiser or operator must destroy visitor information as soon as reasonably practicable after the 21 day period unless there is another basis on which the details may lawfully be retained. The visitor information must be provided to a relevant person as soon as reasonably practicable but in any event within 24 hours of a request, if so requested by that person.\n\nWhether a person is attending or is responsible for organising or operating a funeral or associated event in a Church, funeral directors or elsewhere they must comply with the guidance for handling the infection risks when caring for the deceased and managing funerals issued by the Department of Health https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/covid-19-guidance-surrounding-death","answerHtml":"Churches are permitted to open for acts of worship, although most made a voluntary decision to close for in-person services from 7 January 2021.
If the number of attendees exceeds the current indoor gathering limits of 6 people from more than 2 households or outdoor gatherings of 10 people from more than 2 households, including at wedding and funerals, the person responsible for organising or operating the gathering must carry out a risk assessment and put in place, implement and maintain mitigating measures to reduce the risk of virus transmission.
From 24 May, subject to review by the Executive on 20 May, the numbers permitted for indoor gatherings, (not including domestic settings), will be as permitted by a risk assessment of the venue. Where the gathering is of more than 15 people, it must be an organised gathering with a risk assessment and mitigating measures.
Face coverings are mandatory within a place of worship and when entering or leaving, except for the person leading the service and the two parties to a marriage or civil partnership.
Funerals, marriages and civil partnerships have additional requirements. A person responsible for the organisation or operation of a marriage or civil partnership or the organiser or operator of the funeral or associated event must take measures to obtain visitor information either in advance or at the time of attendance. This consists of the name and telephone number of each person aged 16 years or above in attendance; the date and time of arrival; record the visitor information in a filing system; and retain visitor information for a period of 21 days beginning with the date on which the visit occurred.
The organiser or operator must destroy visitor information as soon as reasonably practicable after the 21 day period unless there is another basis on which the details may lawfully be retained. The visitor information must be provided to a relevant person as soon as reasonably practicable but in any event within 24 hours of a request, if so requested by that person.
Whether a person is attending or is responsible for organising or operating a funeral or associated event in a Church, funeral directors or elsewhere they must comply with the guidance for handling the infection risks when caring for the deceased and managing funerals issued by the Department of Health https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/covid-19-guidance-surrounding-death
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016518%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331686","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331686"}},{"id":"334558","reference":"AQO 1859/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-18","answerBy":"2021-04-13","answered":"2021-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the delivery of the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme is a priority in the New Decade New Approach agreement and I am committed to its implementation. The Programme provides a real opportunity to contribute to the delivery of wider government priorities and to address a range of social, economic and cultural needs, whilst also meeting the needs of the football family.\n\nCurrently my officials are undertaking work to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme. This includes a club survey and a series of strategic discussions with the key stakeholders who oversee the game, operate the facilities, support football and play the sport at all levels.\n\nA Working Group has also been established with representatives from the key stakeholders involved, including Councils, IFA, NIFL, SportNI and the Department. This will ensure a collaborative approach to developing the shape and scope of the programme.\n\nThis work aims to ensure that the programme reflects the current and future needs of local football.\n\nA full analysis of the outcomes of both of these exercises, along with benchmarking and research, will inform my proposals on the future of this Programme.\n\nFollowing this work I will present recommendations to Executive colleagues on the future implementation of the Programme including the timetable for delivery.","answerHtml":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme is a priority in the New Decade New Approach agreement and I am committed to its implementation. The Programme provides a real opportunity to contribute to the delivery of wider government priorities and to address a range of social, economic and cultural needs, whilst also meeting the needs of the football family.
Currently my officials are undertaking work to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme. This includes a club survey and a series of strategic discussions with the key stakeholders who oversee the game, operate the facilities, support football and play the sport at all levels.
A Working Group has also been established with representatives from the key stakeholders involved, including Councils, IFA, NIFL, SportNI and the Department. This will ensure a collaborative approach to developing the shape and scope of the programme.
This work aims to ensure that the programme reflects the current and future needs of local football.
A full analysis of the outcomes of both of these exercises, along with benchmarking and research, will inform my proposals on the future of this Programme.
Following this work I will present recommendations to Executive colleagues on the future implementation of the Programme including the timetable for delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201859%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=334558","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=334558"}},{"id":"331201","reference":"AQW 16360/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-15","answerBy":"2021-03-31","answered":"2021-03-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any concerns she has that businesses with limited or no income, and with furloughed employees, may not be able to pay the obliged contributions such as National Insurance and pension contributions and that this could lead to redundancies, particularly to younger workers with fewer years accrued; and (ii) what conversations she has had with the Minister of Finance and HM Treasury regarding this issue.","answerText":"I, along with my fellow Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly members, of course have concerns regarding any circumstance that could lead to potential redundancy scenarios for local workers, regardless of age or experience. That is why the Executive and UK Government have implemented an unprecedented range and volume of financial support packages since March 2020, with the primary aim of preventing businesses from closing and retaining jobs for their employees. My own Department has led in the delivery of more than £40million of financial support to more than 30,000 businesses and individuals, and, along with other Executive Departments, is currently delivering millions of pounds to tens of thousands more. The Coronavirus Job Retention (Furlough) Scheme is a UK Government initiative, administered via HMRC, and despite representations made to the Chancellor on this issue by myself and Executive colleagues, unfortunately, we have been unable to affect the desired changes to this UK wide scheme. My focus now is on the re-opening of the economy as I firmly believe that the best way to support all of our local businesses, and protect employees, is to enable people to commence working and trading, as soon as possible, in line with the Executive roadmap steps and health regulations. My Department’s recently published ‘Economy Recovery Action Plan’ sets out the actions to be taken over the next 12-18 months to support the rebuilding effort. This includes the delivery of a High Street Stimulus Scheme and a Tourism ‘Staycation’ voucher. It is intended that both will provide a financial boost and injection of expenditure into our local villages, towns and cities throughout Northern Ireland during 2021. Looking to the medium term future, and the creation of new job opportunities, the ‘Action Plan’ also includes the development of a flexible skills fund and widening access to apprenticeships by removing the current age cap.","answerHtml":"I, along with my fellow Northern Ireland Executive and Assembly members, of course have concerns regarding any circumstance that could lead to potential redundancy scenarios for local workers, regardless of age or experience. That is why the Executive and UK Government have implemented an unprecedented range and volume of financial support packages since March 2020, with the primary aim of preventing businesses from closing and retaining jobs for their employees. My own Department has led in the delivery of more than £40million of financial support to more than 30,000 businesses and individuals, and, along with other Executive Departments, is currently delivering millions of pounds to tens of thousands more. The Coronavirus Job Retention (Furlough) Scheme is a UK Government initiative, administered via HMRC, and despite representations made to the Chancellor on this issue by myself and Executive colleagues, unfortunately, we have been unable to affect the desired changes to this UK wide scheme. My focus now is on the re-opening of the economy as I firmly believe that the best way to support all of our local businesses, and protect employees, is to enable people to commence working and trading, as soon as possible, in line with the Executive roadmap steps and health regulations. My Department’s recently published ‘Economy Recovery Action Plan’ sets out the actions to be taken over the next 12-18 months to support the rebuilding effort. This includes the delivery of a High Street Stimulus Scheme and a Tourism ‘Staycation’ voucher. It is intended that both will provide a financial boost and injection of expenditure into our local villages, towns and cities throughout Northern Ireland during 2021. Looking to the medium term future, and the creation of new job opportunities, the ‘Action Plan’ also includes the development of a flexible skills fund and widening access to apprenticeships by removing the current age cap.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016360%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331201"}},{"id":"331200","reference":"AQW 16359/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-15","answerBy":"2021-03-31","answered":"2021-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the estimated the cost of paying the entirety of the contributions that the employers of furloughed workers are obliged to pay, such as National Insurance and pensions contributions.","answerText":"My Department does not have access to the taxpayer data required to make such an estimate. This would be a matter for HMRC which administers the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and holds this information.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have access to the taxpayer data required to make such an estimate. This would be a matter for HMRC which administers the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme and holds this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016359%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331200","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331200"}},{"id":"331199","reference":"AQW 16358/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-15","answerBy":"2021-03-31","answered":"2021-04-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what actions she has taken, and plans to take, to incentivise employers to reduce the number of redundancies of young people, given their redundancy payments will naturally be less because of fewer years in their role.","answerText":"Rights and responsibilities relating to redundancy in Norther Ireland are set out in the Employment Rights (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.\n\nRedundancy has two different meanings for the purposes of employment law in Northern Ireland. One meaning is used for entitlement to redundancy payments and the other meaning is used for the right to be consulted.\n\nIf an employer decides to make compulsory redundancies, they will need to create an objective and non-discriminatory redundancy selection criteria. A pool of employees should be identified from which all or some employees will be made redundant. The criteria that can be used to select employees for redundancy can include:\n\nskills, qualifications and aptitude\n\nstandard of work performance\n\nattendance/disciplinary record\n\nexperience\n\nCriteria used should be verifiable and be precisely defined, non-discriminatory and applied consistently, to avoid the possibility of unlawful discrimination.\n\nEmployers should consult employees regardless of the number they plan to make redundant. If an employer fails to do so, any subsequent dismissals may be unfair.\n\nAnalysis of the impact of previous recessions have shown that young people are disproportionally impacted as a result of both redundancy and a lack of opportunities to join the workplace. In order to mitigate against these risks in September 2020 I announced an Apprenticeship Recovery Package that is channelling financial support to local businesses to help support the retention and recruitment of apprentices.\n\nFurloughed apprentices, the vast majority of whom were under 25, were identified as an at risk group in terms of redundancy. The Apprenticeship Return, Retain and Result Scheme (RRR) was specifically developed to mitigate against this risk, through this scheme my Department is providing direct financial support with up to £3,700 available per apprentice to help and encourage employers to return apprentices from furlough. Payments are staged to support longer term retention through to successful completion of their apprenticeship. Further information on the scheme is available at: www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-apprenticeship-return-retain-and-result-scheme\n\nAnother key element of the package is The New Apprentice Recruitment Incentive which offers up to £3,000 per apprentice employed. In addition to this support being available to employers of new apprentices it is also available to those who employ apprentices who have been made redundant by other employers in order to stimulate the creation of opportunities to get them back to work and enable them to complete their apprenticeship. Further information on the scheme is available at:\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-new-apprenticeship-incentive-scheme\n\nIn relation to employees of all ages, Invest NI’s role is to support the businesses they work for to recover, rebuild and take advantage of opportunities as a result of new product development, innovation and sales; access to new markets and supply chains; and improved productivity and profitability.\n\nIn parallel to this support, Invest NI also works with industry (and partners in Government and the academic sector) to help businesses to reskill and upskill, enabling existing workforces to ‘pivot’ towards new opportunities.\n\nInterventions available include: the Skills for Growth Programme; the Skills Advancement Grant; the Collaborative Growth Programme; various Leadership Programmes; the Supply Chain Resilience and Development Framework; and access to expertise in the areas of Operational Excellence and Manufacturing 4.0.\n\nLast month I launched an Economic Recovery Action Plan which sets out a range of decisive actions to kick-start economic recovery under four pillars, one of which is ‘Supporting a Highly Skilled & Agile Workforce’. A number of planned actions include extension of the current incentives to support employers returning apprentices from furlough and recruiting new apprentices and making apprenticeships available to more people and sectors through the introduction of Public Sector Apprenticeships.","answerHtml":"Rights and responsibilities relating to redundancy in Norther Ireland are set out in the Employment Rights (Northern Ireland) Order 1996.
Redundancy has two different meanings for the purposes of employment law in Northern Ireland. One meaning is used for entitlement to redundancy payments and the other meaning is used for the right to be consulted.
If an employer decides to make compulsory redundancies, they will need to create an objective and non-discriminatory redundancy selection criteria. A pool of employees should be identified from which all or some employees will be made redundant. The criteria that can be used to select employees for redundancy can include:
skills, qualifications and aptitude
standard of work performance
attendance/disciplinary record
experience
Criteria used should be verifiable and be precisely defined, non-discriminatory and applied consistently, to avoid the possibility of unlawful discrimination.
Employers should consult employees regardless of the number they plan to make redundant. If an employer fails to do so, any subsequent dismissals may be unfair.
Analysis of the impact of previous recessions have shown that young people are disproportionally impacted as a result of both redundancy and a lack of opportunities to join the workplace. In order to mitigate against these risks in September 2020 I announced an Apprenticeship Recovery Package that is channelling financial support to local businesses to help support the retention and recruitment of apprentices.
Furloughed apprentices, the vast majority of whom were under 25, were identified as an at risk group in terms of redundancy. The Apprenticeship Return, Retain and Result Scheme (RRR) was specifically developed to mitigate against this risk, through this scheme my Department is providing direct financial support with up to £3,700 available per apprentice to help and encourage employers to return apprentices from furlough. Payments are staged to support longer term retention through to successful completion of their apprenticeship. Further information on the scheme is available at: www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-apprenticeship-return-retain-and-result-scheme
Another key element of the package is The New Apprentice Recruitment Incentive which offers up to £3,000 per apprentice employed. In addition to this support being available to employers of new apprentices it is also available to those who employ apprentices who have been made redundant by other employers in order to stimulate the creation of opportunities to get them back to work and enable them to complete their apprenticeship. Further information on the scheme is available at:
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-new-apprenticeship-incentive-scheme
In relation to employees of all ages, Invest NI’s role is to support the businesses they work for to recover, rebuild and take advantage of opportunities as a result of new product development, innovation and sales; access to new markets and supply chains; and improved productivity and profitability.
In parallel to this support, Invest NI also works with industry (and partners in Government and the academic sector) to help businesses to reskill and upskill, enabling existing workforces to ‘pivot’ towards new opportunities.
Interventions available include: the Skills for Growth Programme; the Skills Advancement Grant; the Collaborative Growth Programme; various Leadership Programmes; the Supply Chain Resilience and Development Framework; and access to expertise in the areas of Operational Excellence and Manufacturing 4.0.
Last month I launched an Economic Recovery Action Plan which sets out a range of decisive actions to kick-start economic recovery under four pillars, one of which is ‘Supporting a Highly Skilled & Agile Workforce’. A number of planned actions include extension of the current incentives to support employers returning apprentices from furlough and recruiting new apprentices and making apprenticeships available to more people and sectors through the introduction of Public Sector Apprenticeships.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016358%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331199"}},{"id":"331198","reference":"AQW 16357/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-15","answerBy":"2021-03-31","answered":"2021-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what consideration he has given to widening the eligibility for the rates relief scheme to include other sectors of the economy; and the associated costings of doing so.","answerText":"The business rate relief measures which I announced on 11 March are informed by updated expert research from the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre. This research recognised that whereas most sectors of the economy have been impacted by the ongoing crisis, some have been impacted more significantly than others. This work assisted the Executive in its decision on the scale and targeting of rate relief for the coming year, recognising the need to prioritise this support to where the need is greatest, given the considerable cost of doing so. The additional business rate relief in 2020-21 has cost £288m. It is projected that the additional rate relief in 2021-22 will cost a further £230m.","answerHtml":"The business rate relief measures which I announced on 11 March are informed by updated expert research from the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre. This research recognised that whereas most sectors of the economy have been impacted by the ongoing crisis, some have been impacted more significantly than others. This work assisted the Executive in its decision on the scale and targeting of rate relief for the coming year, recognising the need to prioritise this support to where the need is greatest, given the considerable cost of doing so. The additional business rate relief in 2020-21 has cost £288m. It is projected that the additional rate relief in 2021-22 will cost a further £230m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016357%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331198","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331198"}},{"id":"331197","reference":"AQW 16356/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-15","answerBy":"2021-03-31","answered":"2021-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail her plans to incentivise businesses to invest in the green economy.","answerText":"‘Building a Greener Economy’ is a central pillar of my Economic Recovery Action Plan. I have identified actions to be taken forward that will support the clean energy transition and economic recovery. Securing £20million for investment in energy efficiency, green innovation and the development of the hydrogen and circular economy demonstrates my commitment to ensuring our recovery is sustainable, environmentally responsible and tackles climate change.\n\nI have launched a policy options consultation for a new NI Energy Strategy. It will consider how future energy policies can help to support the growth of a green economy.\n\nI would encourage local businesses to consider the investment potential within the clean energy sector. Supporting businesses that are willing and able to develop and adopt innovative, low carbon technologies and grow our green workforce as a result, is a priority for me. Responding to the consultation will help to inform how policy can support businesses to take advantage of these new opportunities.\n\nMy Department is developing a bold and ambitious new vision, for a decade of innovation, for the Northern Ireland economy. The ambition will reflect the scale of the challenges ahead, and the opportunity we have, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and the climate crisis, to make a generational change. To meet our ambition we will focus on areas in which we can maximise our advantage including opportunities within the green economy.\n\nFurthermore, my officials are currently developing a strategic framework which will provide a first step in setting out a clear vision for Circular Economy in Northern Ireland. The framework will encourage innovation and resource efficiency, help increase productivity, drive economic growth and it will help local businesses become resilient and competitive in the global market.","answerHtml":"‘Building a Greener Economy’ is a central pillar of my Economic Recovery Action Plan. I have identified actions to be taken forward that will support the clean energy transition and economic recovery. Securing £20million for investment in energy efficiency, green innovation and the development of the hydrogen and circular economy demonstrates my commitment to ensuring our recovery is sustainable, environmentally responsible and tackles climate change.
I have launched a policy options consultation for a new NI Energy Strategy. It will consider how future energy policies can help to support the growth of a green economy.
I would encourage local businesses to consider the investment potential within the clean energy sector. Supporting businesses that are willing and able to develop and adopt innovative, low carbon technologies and grow our green workforce as a result, is a priority for me. Responding to the consultation will help to inform how policy can support businesses to take advantage of these new opportunities.
My Department is developing a bold and ambitious new vision, for a decade of innovation, for the Northern Ireland economy. The ambition will reflect the scale of the challenges ahead, and the opportunity we have, in response to the Covid-19 pandemic, Brexit and the climate crisis, to make a generational change. To meet our ambition we will focus on areas in which we can maximise our advantage including opportunities within the green economy.
Furthermore, my officials are currently developing a strategic framework which will provide a first step in setting out a clear vision for Circular Economy in Northern Ireland. The framework will encourage innovation and resource efficiency, help increase productivity, drive economic growth and it will help local businesses become resilient and competitive in the global market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016356%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=331197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=331197"}},{"id":"330865","reference":"AQW 16221/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-11","answerBy":"2021-03-29","answered":"2021-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the amount of money spent in the last year by public sector bodies on equipment to enable staff to work from home.","answerText":"Between March 2020 and March 2021 the Department of Finance has spent £5,065,368 to facilitate working from home for civil servants and those arm’s length bodies who are supported by Digital Shared Services (DSS).\n\nThe cost is in support of increased internet bandwidth (£50,000), IT equipment (£4,310,113) and software (£705,255).\n\nIt is not possible for the Department of Finance to break these figures down by each Department as some of these costs are shared infrastructure across DSS customers and some equipment has been purchased for stock to meet future requests.","answerHtml":"Between March 2020 and March 2021 the Department of Finance has spent £5,065,368 to facilitate working from home for civil servants and those arm’s length bodies who are supported by Digital Shared Services (DSS).
The cost is in support of increased internet bandwidth (£50,000), IT equipment (£4,310,113) and software (£705,255).
It is not possible for the Department of Finance to break these figures down by each Department as some of these costs are shared infrastructure across DSS customers and some equipment has been purchased for stock to meet future requests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016221%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330865"}},{"id":"330864","reference":"AQW 16220/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-11","answerBy":"2021-03-29","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what steps his Department is taking to ascertain that the person or business applying for the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme is the same person named on the rates bill for the business.","answerText":"For every application to the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme, Land & Property Services checks the rate account to confirm that the applicant is the rated occupier of the property.\n\nIf there is a discrepancy, LPS carries out investigations to determine if the applicant is an eligible occupier.\n\nIf the rate account is in a landlord’s name, or LPS records show the property as being vacant, the applicant is asked for a lease or rental agreement and LPS carries out internet searches to verify that the business is occupying the property.\n\nIn the case of shared space applications, the eligible business is unlikely to be the named ratepayer. Before an award is made, it is necessary for that business to prove they are occupying a defined separate area and operate as a completely separate business. LPS also use internet searches in this scenario to determine that the business does operate from the premises.","answerHtml":"For every application to the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme, Land & Property Services checks the rate account to confirm that the applicant is the rated occupier of the property.
If there is a discrepancy, LPS carries out investigations to determine if the applicant is an eligible occupier.
If the rate account is in a landlord’s name, or LPS records show the property as being vacant, the applicant is asked for a lease or rental agreement and LPS carries out internet searches to verify that the business is occupying the property.
In the case of shared space applications, the eligible business is unlikely to be the named ratepayer. Before an award is made, it is necessary for that business to prove they are occupying a defined separate area and operate as a completely separate business. LPS also use internet searches in this scenario to determine that the business does operate from the premises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016220%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330864"}},{"id":"330863","reference":"AQW 16219/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-11","answerBy":"2021-03-29","answered":"2021-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) which groups are exempt from the 10-day quarantine rule for travellers coming back from GB; (ii) whether there is a planned relaxation of this rule; and (iii) whether relatives travelling back from GB after providing childcare to relatives must quarantine for 10 days.","answerText":"People should not travel in or out of Northern Ireland except where it is essential to do so.\n\nIf you are arriving into Northern Ireland from within the Common Travel Area and you plan to remain here for at least 24 hours, public health advice is that you should self-isolate upon arrival for 10 days, unless you are exempt.\n\nSome people travelling within the Common Travel Area may be exempt from self-isolation due to the job they do. Information on sector specific exemptions is available at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-within-common-travel-area-sector-exemptions\n\nAn indicative date of 24 May has been set to allow individuals to travel within the Common Travel Area to visit family and friends.\n\nThis means you will not have to self-isolate for 10 days if you are arriving into Northern Ireland from within the Common Travel Area to visit family or friends, however the public health advice is to take a pre-departure Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test, and then a LFD test on day 2 and day 8 post arrival in NI.","answerHtml":"People should not travel in or out of Northern Ireland except where it is essential to do so.
If you are arriving into Northern Ireland from within the Common Travel Area and you plan to remain here for at least 24 hours, public health advice is that you should self-isolate upon arrival for 10 days, unless you are exempt.
Some people travelling within the Common Travel Area may be exempt from self-isolation due to the job they do. Information on sector specific exemptions is available at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-within-common-travel-area-sector-exemptions
An indicative date of 24 May has been set to allow individuals to travel within the Common Travel Area to visit family and friends.
This means you will not have to self-isolate for 10 days if you are arriving into Northern Ireland from within the Common Travel Area to visit family or friends, however the public health advice is to take a pre-departure Lateral Flow Device (LFD) test, and then a LFD test on day 2 and day 8 post arrival in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016219%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330863"}},{"id":"330862","reference":"AQW 16218/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-11","answerBy":"2021-03-29","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of the threats posed to Northern Ireland’s coastal areas by climate change.","answerText":"Climate change has been identified as one of the main pressures affecting the UK coastal environments. In the coming decades it is anticipated that potential economic, societal and environmental risks caused by climate change on coastal areas will significantly increase.\n\nThe Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership (MCCIP) 2020 Report Card made future projections of sea level rise around the UK. For Belfast, the central estimate sea level projection for the year 2100 ranges from 0.26 – 0.58 metres, depending on the emissions scenario.\n\nSea levels along the Northern Irish coast are predicted to rise, as are the frequency and intensity of extreme storm events. In combination these impacts will have a direct physical impact on our coastal areas, allowing higher energy waves to reach our coastline, with greater potential for coastal erosion and increased risk of flooding. The frequency and magnitude of coastal change in Northern Ireland will undoubtedly be greater in the future than in the recent past or present and coastal assets will be subjected to enhanced rates of erosion, inundation and weathering or decay.\n\nTo better understand the threats, my Department is progressing actions identified in the Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA) 2017 and the subsequent Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-24. Research has been commissioned from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) to assess the impacts of future climate change scenarios on the coastal habitats of Northern Ireland. This will include identification of the risks to coastal assets, such as Marine Protected Areas, infrastructure and heritage. By integrating the best available evidence this project will identify practical ways to develop adaptation measures to accommodate a range of climate change scenarios.\n\nMy officials are contributing to the development of the third Climate Change Risk Assessment evidence report which is due to be published in summer 2021; this will contain further projections for sea level rise and impact at the coast.","answerHtml":"Climate change has been identified as one of the main pressures affecting the UK coastal environments. In the coming decades it is anticipated that potential economic, societal and environmental risks caused by climate change on coastal areas will significantly increase.
The Marine Climate Change Impacts Partnership (MCCIP) 2020 Report Card made future projections of sea level rise around the UK. For Belfast, the central estimate sea level projection for the year 2100 ranges from 0.26 – 0.58 metres, depending on the emissions scenario.
Sea levels along the Northern Irish coast are predicted to rise, as are the frequency and intensity of extreme storm events. In combination these impacts will have a direct physical impact on our coastal areas, allowing higher energy waves to reach our coastline, with greater potential for coastal erosion and increased risk of flooding. The frequency and magnitude of coastal change in Northern Ireland will undoubtedly be greater in the future than in the recent past or present and coastal assets will be subjected to enhanced rates of erosion, inundation and weathering or decay.
To better understand the threats, my Department is progressing actions identified in the Climate Change Risk Assessment (CCRA) 2017 and the subsequent Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-24. Research has been commissioned from the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute (AFBI) to assess the impacts of future climate change scenarios on the coastal habitats of Northern Ireland. This will include identification of the risks to coastal assets, such as Marine Protected Areas, infrastructure and heritage. By integrating the best available evidence this project will identify practical ways to develop adaptation measures to accommodate a range of climate change scenarios.
My officials are contributing to the development of the third Climate Change Risk Assessment evidence report which is due to be published in summer 2021; this will contain further projections for sea level rise and impact at the coast.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016218%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330862"}},{"id":"330726","reference":"AQW 16135/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-10","answerBy":"2021-03-26","answered":"2021-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, given the higher rate of local corporation tax compared to the Republic of Ireland, (i) how she will ensure Northern Ireland’s competitiveness in attracting private investment; and (ii) to detail any conversations she has had with the government at Westminster regarding the potential lowering of the rate in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"(i) Potential investors assess a number of factors when determining the optimum location for their operations. Northern Ireland is a highly attractive location for both local and international investment as evidenced by our strong track record. We have a compelling offer to investors including our highly skilled and talented workforce, competitive cost base, advanced infrastructure appealing quality of life and access to key markets.\n\nFactors such as the prevailing rate of corporation tax are considered in combination with the above factors rather than in isolation by potential investors when evaluating our attractiveness relative to competing locations.\n\nInvest NI continues to promote this value proposition in overseas markets to attract mobile international investment to the region.\n\n(ii) It is the Department of Finance that leads engagement with UK Government on matters related to tax devolution. I have not had formal discussions with UK Government regarding the potential lowering of the corporation tax rate in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"(i) Potential investors assess a number of factors when determining the optimum location for their operations. Northern Ireland is a highly attractive location for both local and international investment as evidenced by our strong track record. We have a compelling offer to investors including our highly skilled and talented workforce, competitive cost base, advanced infrastructure appealing quality of life and access to key markets.
Factors such as the prevailing rate of corporation tax are considered in combination with the above factors rather than in isolation by potential investors when evaluating our attractiveness relative to competing locations.
Invest NI continues to promote this value proposition in overseas markets to attract mobile international investment to the region.
(ii) It is the Department of Finance that leads engagement with UK Government on matters related to tax devolution. I have not had formal discussions with UK Government regarding the potential lowering of the corporation tax rate in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016135%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330726"}},{"id":"330725","reference":"AQW 16134/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-10","answerBy":"2021-03-26","answered":"2021-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) when she expects the 100 people supported by her Department in obtaining an export and trade qualification to complete their studies; (ii) to detail the number that have committed to working in Northern Ireland on the completion of their course; and (iii) whether there are positions available when their studies are completed.","answerText":"I am pleased to say that approximately 120 students will be supported to undertake this qualification before the end of the year. The first cohort of this course, comprising 40 students (20 from South Eastern Regional College and 20 from North West Regional College), commenced their studies on 8 February 2021and will complete the qualification by the end of May 2021. A second cohort of 40 will commence training on the 28th April, with an expected completion of qualification in August. The colleges have advised that all of those completing the course are, or will be, working in Northern Ireland; none have indicated they intend to work elsewhere. The majority of the students are working in an environment where the qualification will be of benefit to them, a few who are not currently employed have experience working in this field and there are a number of students seeking to move into a career in Export & Trade. In recent job advertisements, there have been opportunities in the areas of Customs Administrative Assistant, Customs Compliance Manager and Freight Co-ordinator jobs. Both NWRC and SERC have a strong working relationship with the Institute of Export (IOE), which has a job board and is involved with organisations recruiting customs and trade personnel. The college cannot guarantee a job, however students are directed to vacancies through the IOE job board.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to say that approximately 120 students will be supported to undertake this qualification before the end of the year. The first cohort of this course, comprising 40 students (20 from South Eastern Regional College and 20 from North West Regional College), commenced their studies on 8 February 2021and will complete the qualification by the end of May 2021. A second cohort of 40 will commence training on the 28th April, with an expected completion of qualification in August. The colleges have advised that all of those completing the course are, or will be, working in Northern Ireland; none have indicated they intend to work elsewhere. The majority of the students are working in an environment where the qualification will be of benefit to them, a few who are not currently employed have experience working in this field and there are a number of students seeking to move into a career in Export & Trade. In recent job advertisements, there have been opportunities in the areas of Customs Administrative Assistant, Customs Compliance Manager and Freight Co-ordinator jobs. Both NWRC and SERC have a strong working relationship with the Institute of Export (IOE), which has a job board and is involved with organisations recruiting customs and trade personnel. The college cannot guarantee a job, however students are directed to vacancies through the IOE job board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016134%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330725"}},{"id":"330724","reference":"AQW 16133/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-10","answerBy":"2021-03-26","answered":"2021-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the sectors identified as being at risk of automation in the short, medium and long term.","answerText":"The evidence is clear that innovation and the technological change and automation it drives is overwhelmingly a force for good for economies and for societies. It drives productivity growth, improves overall living standards and drives up working conditions.\n\nThe digital revolution is a recent example of how technological advancements and associated automation can improve lives, livelihoods and enable economies to adjust with greater pace to economic shocks including the current pandemic. Many have been able to sustain employment in ways that would not have been possible just a few years ago.\n\nResearch commissioned by my Department to assess the impact of automation on the Northern Ireland economy by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre (UUEPC), undertaken before the pandemic, estimated that up to 98,600 additional jobs could be created in Northern Ireland by 2030.\n\nThe UUEPC report contends that automation will drive change in many existing occupations but that it will have a clearly positive impact overall.\n\nAccording to UUEPC’s forecasts, health & social care and professional services may experience the largest net employment gains in Northern Ireland by 2030. When analysing growth in the context of sector size, the fastest growing sectors are ICT and professional services.\n\nHowever, the research is also clear about the importance of our people and our economy being well positioned to build on the economic opportunities that automation presents. That requires in particular sustained investment in the skills of our existing and emerging workforce.\n\nThe Department is developing a bold and ambitious new vision for the Northern Ireland economy. This will set out how we can best exploit windows of opportunity for core sectors and technologies; ensuring that innovation is diffused across the economy to every industry and locality. The vision will bring a renewed focus on investment in skills so that all our people can drive and benefit from these ambitions.","answerHtml":"The evidence is clear that innovation and the technological change and automation it drives is overwhelmingly a force for good for economies and for societies. It drives productivity growth, improves overall living standards and drives up working conditions.
The digital revolution is a recent example of how technological advancements and associated automation can improve lives, livelihoods and enable economies to adjust with greater pace to economic shocks including the current pandemic. Many have been able to sustain employment in ways that would not have been possible just a few years ago.
Research commissioned by my Department to assess the impact of automation on the Northern Ireland economy by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre (UUEPC), undertaken before the pandemic, estimated that up to 98,600 additional jobs could be created in Northern Ireland by 2030.
The UUEPC report contends that automation will drive change in many existing occupations but that it will have a clearly positive impact overall.
According to UUEPC’s forecasts, health & social care and professional services may experience the largest net employment gains in Northern Ireland by 2030. When analysing growth in the context of sector size, the fastest growing sectors are ICT and professional services.
However, the research is also clear about the importance of our people and our economy being well positioned to build on the economic opportunities that automation presents. That requires in particular sustained investment in the skills of our existing and emerging workforce.
The Department is developing a bold and ambitious new vision for the Northern Ireland economy. This will set out how we can best exploit windows of opportunity for core sectors and technologies; ensuring that innovation is diffused across the economy to every industry and locality. The vision will bring a renewed focus on investment in skills so that all our people can drive and benefit from these ambitions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016133%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330724"}},{"id":"330723","reference":"AQW 16132/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-10","answerBy":"2021-03-26","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of air quality in Northern Ireland, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The management of air quality in Northern Ireland is based on the requirements of European Union (EU) Air Quality Directives, and on the 2007 UK Air Quality Strategy. These requirements are incorporated (or ‘transposed’) into Northern Ireland’s own legislation by statutory measures, forming the basis of a strong framework for managing air quality.\n\nDistrict councils have a statutory duty to appropriately monitor, assess and to take action on air pollution under Part III of The Environment Order (NI) 2002.\n\nThe Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) system has been established for councils to fulfil their statutory duties under the Order and assess compliance with objectives in the UK Air Quality Strategy. At locations where objectives are not expected to be met by the relevant target date, district councils are required to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and to develop an Action Plan to address the problem. The Department provides funding to councils under the LAQM grant scheme to carry out monitoring and associated air quality duties.\n\nMy Department’s air quality report contains a full analysis of pollutant levels, across all monitoring stations in local council districts and is available at: https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/documents/technical-reports/0369%20DAERA%20Air%20Pollution%20Report%202019-Issue2-print-optimised.pdf\n\nCurrent, real-time pollution levels are available from each district council via our website at: https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/","answerHtml":"The management of air quality in Northern Ireland is based on the requirements of European Union (EU) Air Quality Directives, and on the 2007 UK Air Quality Strategy. These requirements are incorporated (or ‘transposed’) into Northern Ireland’s own legislation by statutory measures, forming the basis of a strong framework for managing air quality.
District councils have a statutory duty to appropriately monitor, assess and to take action on air pollution under Part III of The Environment Order (NI) 2002.
The Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) system has been established for councils to fulfil their statutory duties under the Order and assess compliance with objectives in the UK Air Quality Strategy. At locations where objectives are not expected to be met by the relevant target date, district councils are required to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and to develop an Action Plan to address the problem. The Department provides funding to councils under the LAQM grant scheme to carry out monitoring and associated air quality duties.
My Department’s air quality report contains a full analysis of pollutant levels, across all monitoring stations in local council districts and is available at: https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/documents/technical-reports/0369%20DAERA%20Air%20Pollution%20Report%202019-Issue2-print-optimised.pdf
Current, real-time pollution levels are available from each district council via our website at: https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016132%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330723"}},{"id":"330722","reference":"AQW 16131/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-10","answerBy":"2021-03-26","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for an update on a clean air bill for Northern Ireland; and (ii) what measures he is considering for implementation in the short, medium and long term.","answerText":"Work is now well underway within my Department in developing Northern Ireland’s first Clean Air Strategy; however, I have not committed to developing a clean air bill/act.\n\nI recently ran a twelve week public consultation on The Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document (available at: http://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/clean_air_strategy_discussion_document), developed by my Department, which sought views on a wide variety of matters relating to air quality. It did not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position at this stage.\n\nTo ensure the best air quality outcomes are achieved, a two-staged approach has been adopted:\n\nA 12 week public consultation on the Discussion Document. This has now concluded. The Discussion Document is a lengthy document that discusses evidence, existing polices and poses questions to promote discussion; and\n\nDraft the Clean Air Strategy. This will be based on analysis of stakeholder views and Ministerial policy direction. This will be a shorter document, and will be subject to a further public consultation and Executive approval.\n\nFollowing the period of public discussion, responses received are being reviewed, options considered and a range of proposals formulated. Once I have considered the options and decided on a policy direction, officials will begin to draft the first Clean Air Strategy for Northern Ireland. This will be a more focused and shorter document than the Discussion Document and will contain specific proposals relating to policy and other measures which can improve air quality. This draft Clean Air Strategy will be subject to an additional public consultation and due to the cross-cutting nature of the policy area, Executive approval will also be sought at that time.","answerHtml":"Work is now well underway within my Department in developing Northern Ireland’s first Clean Air Strategy; however, I have not committed to developing a clean air bill/act.
I recently ran a twelve week public consultation on The Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document (available at: http://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/clean_air_strategy_discussion_document), developed by my Department, which sought views on a wide variety of matters relating to air quality. It did not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position at this stage.
To ensure the best air quality outcomes are achieved, a two-staged approach has been adopted:
A 12 week public consultation on the Discussion Document. This has now concluded. The Discussion Document is a lengthy document that discusses evidence, existing polices and poses questions to promote discussion; and
Draft the Clean Air Strategy. This will be based on analysis of stakeholder views and Ministerial policy direction. This will be a shorter document, and will be subject to a further public consultation and Executive approval.
Following the period of public discussion, responses received are being reviewed, options considered and a range of proposals formulated. Once I have considered the options and decided on a policy direction, officials will begin to draft the first Clean Air Strategy for Northern Ireland. This will be a more focused and shorter document than the Discussion Document and will contain specific proposals relating to policy and other measures which can improve air quality. This draft Clean Air Strategy will be subject to an additional public consultation and due to the cross-cutting nature of the policy area, Executive approval will also be sought at that time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016131%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330722"}},{"id":"330521","reference":"AQW 16049/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-09","answerBy":"2021-03-25","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the discussions she has had and intends to have with Ulster University to ensure that the further and higher education sectors continue to play a key role in the response to COVID-19, raising skills levels and increasing productivity of the future workforce, and examining ways to ensure greater alignment between study and the needs of the economy, specifically in relation to the Coleraine campus.","answerText":"I met with the Vice Chancellor of the University, Paul Bartholomew on 3rd February 2021 to discuss the University’s strategic plans for all of its campuses and have requested sight of same. While enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have increased over the last decade, I am aware of the need to ensure that the supply of graduates is better aligned with the needs of the local economy. The Northern Ireland Skills Barometer indicates that higher education skills at level 6 and above are, in general, only marginally undersupplied when compared with the overall quantum required by the labour market. However, there are significant imbalances across individual subject areas, with some of the largest undersupply predicted in STEM subjects. Northern Ireland’s universities are aware of this undersupply, and have taken measures in recent years to rebalance their provision, with the result that enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have been increasing over the past number of years. In 2012/13, 22% of students at Northern Ireland’s higher education institutions were studying a narrow STEM related subject, with 45% studying a broad STEM related subject. By 2018/19, these figures had increased to 25.9% and 55.5% respectively. My Department is engaged in a number of initiatives to encourage this alignment, including: the provision of information to prospective students; the development of degree level apprenticeships; and funding short-term courses in priority economic sectors.","answerHtml":"I met with the Vice Chancellor of the University, Paul Bartholomew on 3rd February 2021 to discuss the University’s strategic plans for all of its campuses and have requested sight of same. While enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have increased over the last decade, I am aware of the need to ensure that the supply of graduates is better aligned with the needs of the local economy. The Northern Ireland Skills Barometer indicates that higher education skills at level 6 and above are, in general, only marginally undersupplied when compared with the overall quantum required by the labour market. However, there are significant imbalances across individual subject areas, with some of the largest undersupply predicted in STEM subjects. Northern Ireland’s universities are aware of this undersupply, and have taken measures in recent years to rebalance their provision, with the result that enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have been increasing over the past number of years. In 2012/13, 22% of students at Northern Ireland’s higher education institutions were studying a narrow STEM related subject, with 45% studying a broad STEM related subject. By 2018/19, these figures had increased to 25.9% and 55.5% respectively. My Department is engaged in a number of initiatives to encourage this alignment, including: the provision of information to prospective students; the development of degree level apprenticeships; and funding short-term courses in priority economic sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016049%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330521","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330521"}},{"id":"330520","reference":"AQW 16048/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-09","answerBy":"2021-03-25","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of employers that have expressed a desire to take on new apprentices during the 2021/22 financial year; (ii) how this figure compares to the previous five years; and (iii) the steps her Department is taking to encourage more employers to engage with apprenticeships schemes.","answerText":"(i) & (ii) My Department does not hold the information requested. An Employer Skills survey published by Westminster’s Department for Education in June 2020 states that 6% of employers in NI currently offer apprenticeships, while a further 6% of employers in NI have previously offered apprenticeships but have none currently. Of the Northern Ireland employers who responded to the survey, 29% stated that they intend to offer apprenticeships in the future, while 13% said they didn’t know if they would offer apprenticeships in future. Of those NI employers who currently offer apprenticeships, 90% intend to continue offering apprenticeships in the future. It is important to note however that this survey was conducted in 2019 and therefore predates the Covid19 pandemic. I am not aware of any similar surveys that have been conducted more recently. (iii) My Department’s Apprenticeship Recovery Package was launched on 11th September 2020. The package consists of three separate elements: New Apprenticeship Recruitment Incentive – This scheme offers up to £3,000 to employers for each new apprenticeship opportunity created and applies equally for new apprentices and those who have been made redundant by other employers; Return Retain Result (RRR) –Up to £3,700 per apprentice is available to employers who return apprentices from furlough and retain their employment through to the 31st March 2021 and on to successful completion of their apprenticeship; and The Apprenticeship Challenge Fund – A one off grant scheme to promote the development and testing of new and innovative models of apprenticeship recruitment and delivery The launch of these schemes has been supported by an advertising campaign across TV, radio, outdoor billboards and a variety of social media platforms. Officials have also been working with training providers to ensure that employers are made aware of the support available and to encourage them to utilise the support available to protect existing and create new apprenticeship opportunities It is important to note that unlike other skills and training interventions, apprenticeships are demand led and directly linked to jobs and skills needs within the economy. Despite this package of support it is clear that the need to support apprentices, employers and training providers remains. Last month I launched an Economic Recovery Action Plan which sets out a range of decisive actions to kick-start economic recovery under four pillars, one of which is ‘Supporting a Highly Skilled & Agile Workforce’. A number of planned actions include extension of the Apprenticeship Recruitment Initiative, making apprenticeships available to more people and sectors by amending agerelated eligibility criteria and the introduction of Public Sector Apprenticeships. In addition my Department is currently working with stakeholders across five Regional Working Groups to develop a programme of activity for Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2021. This event will run from 26 to 30 April 2021 and provides an opportunity for the general public, including future apprentices and their influencers (parents, guardians, teachers etc), and employers to discover the benefits apprenticeships bring to businesses, individuals and our economy. Finally, through our Sectoral Partnerships we are reviewing and developing the content of apprenticeship frameworks to ensure that they meet the evolving needs of employers.","answerHtml":"(i) & (ii) My Department does not hold the information requested. An Employer Skills survey published by Westminster’s Department for Education in June 2020 states that 6% of employers in NI currently offer apprenticeships, while a further 6% of employers in NI have previously offered apprenticeships but have none currently. Of the Northern Ireland employers who responded to the survey, 29% stated that they intend to offer apprenticeships in the future, while 13% said they didn’t know if they would offer apprenticeships in future. Of those NI employers who currently offer apprenticeships, 90% intend to continue offering apprenticeships in the future. It is important to note however that this survey was conducted in 2019 and therefore predates the Covid19 pandemic. I am not aware of any similar surveys that have been conducted more recently. (iii) My Department’s Apprenticeship Recovery Package was launched on 11th September 2020. The package consists of three separate elements: New Apprenticeship Recruitment Incentive – This scheme offers up to £3,000 to employers for each new apprenticeship opportunity created and applies equally for new apprentices and those who have been made redundant by other employers; Return Retain Result (RRR) –Up to £3,700 per apprentice is available to employers who return apprentices from furlough and retain their employment through to the 31st March 2021 and on to successful completion of their apprenticeship; and The Apprenticeship Challenge Fund – A one off grant scheme to promote the development and testing of new and innovative models of apprenticeship recruitment and delivery The launch of these schemes has been supported by an advertising campaign across TV, radio, outdoor billboards and a variety of social media platforms. Officials have also been working with training providers to ensure that employers are made aware of the support available and to encourage them to utilise the support available to protect existing and create new apprenticeship opportunities It is important to note that unlike other skills and training interventions, apprenticeships are demand led and directly linked to jobs and skills needs within the economy. Despite this package of support it is clear that the need to support apprentices, employers and training providers remains. Last month I launched an Economic Recovery Action Plan which sets out a range of decisive actions to kick-start economic recovery under four pillars, one of which is ‘Supporting a Highly Skilled & Agile Workforce’. A number of planned actions include extension of the Apprenticeship Recruitment Initiative, making apprenticeships available to more people and sectors by amending agerelated eligibility criteria and the introduction of Public Sector Apprenticeships. In addition my Department is currently working with stakeholders across five Regional Working Groups to develop a programme of activity for Northern Ireland Apprenticeship Week 2021. This event will run from 26 to 30 April 2021 and provides an opportunity for the general public, including future apprentices and their influencers (parents, guardians, teachers etc), and employers to discover the benefits apprenticeships bring to businesses, individuals and our economy. Finally, through our Sectoral Partnerships we are reviewing and developing the content of apprenticeship frameworks to ensure that they meet the evolving needs of employers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016048%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330520"}},{"id":"330519","reference":"AQW 16047/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-09","answerBy":"2021-03-25","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the methods that will be used to attract more students in general and female students in particular, to study STEM subjects at local universities; and (ii) the discussions she has had, and intends to have, with the Minister of Education in relation to encouraging more students to study STEM subjects at local universities.","answerText":"On 26th May, I launched a consultation on a new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’, aligned to the principles set out in my economic vision, ‘A 10x Economy’.\n\nThe Skills Barometer for Northern Ireland provides a clear guide to the skills we require to maximise our potential. Delivering the skills needed under its ‘high growth scenario’ is adopted as the marker for the strategic objectives which will support our economic vision.\n\nThe Barometer highlights the need for increased participation in STEM subjects, to underpin our future economic success and indicates that there are significant imbalances across higher level skills, with some of the largest undersupply predicted in STEM subjects.\n\nWhilst work is yet to be done on developing specific metrics - subject to consultation on these proposals – it is proposed that our targets will focus on:\n\nincreasing the proportion of individuals leaving Northern Ireland higher education institutions with degrees and post-graduate qualifications in ‘in-demand’ STEM subjects, including: physical, environmental and computer sciences, engineering and mathematics;\n\nAt degree and post-graduate levels, the primary challenge for Northern Ireland is to increase the number of individuals entering the labour market with qualifications in STEM, particularly in the ‘narrow STEM’ fields: physical, environmental and computer sciences, engineering and mathematics. Success in this area is crucial to our economic vision.\n\nUnderpinning this, we need to develop a rich pipeline of talent, increasing the number of individuals who choose to study STEM subjects at degree level.\n\nThe Department has made Northern Ireland’s universities aware of this undersupply, and they have taken measures to rebalance their provision, with the result that enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have been increasing over the past number of years.\n\nThere are a number of ongoing projects which relate to the STEM challenge including:\n\n‘Women in STEM’, which seeks to address the significant under-representation in these areas of study;\n\nThe joint DE/DfE ‘Transition of Young People into Careers (14 – 19) Project’;\n\nThe Review of HE in FE; and\n\nThe ‘Independent Review of Education’, announced by the Minister of Education in December 2020.\n\nAs set out in MATRIX’s ‘Women in STEM’ Position Paper the number of females choosing to study STEM subjects beyond GCSE level is a particular concern as we develop our 10x Economy.\n\nA cross-government Working Group has been established to develop a Women in STEM Action Plan. Building on the paper’s recommendations, it is considering the major factors which constrain the supply of females into STEM study and careers right across the education and career pathway, with the objective of having Northern Ireland ‘STEM Ready’ by 2030. This work will be fully recognised within the Skills Strategy, including the embedding of emerging actions within future skills action plans.\n\nThis is reflected in Proposed Commitment 9 of the consultation document:\n\nRecommendations emerging from the Women in STEM Working Group will be fully recognised in the Skills Strategy and subsequent skills action plans.\n\nI will continue to work with my colleague in the Department of Education to progress this important piece of work.","answerHtml":"On 26th May, I launched a consultation on a new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’, aligned to the principles set out in my economic vision, ‘A 10x Economy’.
The Skills Barometer for Northern Ireland provides a clear guide to the skills we require to maximise our potential. Delivering the skills needed under its ‘high growth scenario’ is adopted as the marker for the strategic objectives which will support our economic vision.
The Barometer highlights the need for increased participation in STEM subjects, to underpin our future economic success and indicates that there are significant imbalances across higher level skills, with some of the largest undersupply predicted in STEM subjects.
Whilst work is yet to be done on developing specific metrics - subject to consultation on these proposals – it is proposed that our targets will focus on:
increasing the proportion of individuals leaving Northern Ireland higher education institutions with degrees and post-graduate qualifications in ‘in-demand’ STEM subjects, including: physical, environmental and computer sciences, engineering and mathematics;
At degree and post-graduate levels, the primary challenge for Northern Ireland is to increase the number of individuals entering the labour market with qualifications in STEM, particularly in the ‘narrow STEM’ fields: physical, environmental and computer sciences, engineering and mathematics. Success in this area is crucial to our economic vision.
Underpinning this, we need to develop a rich pipeline of talent, increasing the number of individuals who choose to study STEM subjects at degree level.
The Department has made Northern Ireland’s universities aware of this undersupply, and they have taken measures to rebalance their provision, with the result that enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have been increasing over the past number of years.
There are a number of ongoing projects which relate to the STEM challenge including:
‘Women in STEM’, which seeks to address the significant under-representation in these areas of study;
The joint DE/DfE ‘Transition of Young People into Careers (14 – 19) Project’;
The Review of HE in FE; and
The ‘Independent Review of Education’, announced by the Minister of Education in December 2020.
As set out in MATRIX’s ‘Women in STEM’ Position Paper the number of females choosing to study STEM subjects beyond GCSE level is a particular concern as we develop our 10x Economy.
A cross-government Working Group has been established to develop a Women in STEM Action Plan. Building on the paper’s recommendations, it is considering the major factors which constrain the supply of females into STEM study and careers right across the education and career pathway, with the objective of having Northern Ireland ‘STEM Ready’ by 2030. This work will be fully recognised within the Skills Strategy, including the embedding of emerging actions within future skills action plans.
This is reflected in Proposed Commitment 9 of the consultation document:
Recommendations emerging from the Women in STEM Working Group will be fully recognised in the Skills Strategy and subsequent skills action plans.
I will continue to work with my colleague in the Department of Education to progress this important piece of work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016047%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330519"}},{"id":"330518","reference":"AQW 16046/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-09","answerBy":"2021-03-25","answered":"2021-09-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, given the 11 percent discrepancy in the optimal number of vets in Northern Ireland and the number of Northern Irish students studying veterinary qualifications in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, will she commit to presenting a business case to Ulster University to create a veterinary school at its Coleraine campus in order to ensure greater alignment between study and the needs of the economy as stated in her Economic Recovery Action Plan.","answerText":"The supply of Veterinary surgeons in Northern Ireland is a policy objective for the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and my Department is not placed to take any final decision or provide direct funding towards the establishment of a veterinary school, as it does not hold the policy or strategic intent. This matter is therefore for DAERA to consider and, if it concludes positively, fund and approve.","answerHtml":"The supply of Veterinary surgeons in Northern Ireland is a policy objective for the Department for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) and my Department is not placed to take any final decision or provide direct funding towards the establishment of a veterinary school, as it does not hold the policy or strategic intent. This matter is therefore for DAERA to consider and, if it concludes positively, fund and approve.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016046%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330518"}},{"id":"330517","reference":"AQW 16045/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-09","answerBy":"2021-03-25","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the ways in which she is working to attract returners, or highly skilled members of Northern Ireland’s diaspora as highlighted in her Economic Recovery Action Plan.","answerText":"Northern Irish Connections (NIC) is the global diaspora initiative for Northern Ireland. Led by a team based in Invest NI’s International Investment Group, its fundamental aim is to engage with the Northern Irish diaspora to harness the influence and contribution which this group can bring to the future economic growth of the region including the potential to attract experienced talent to thriving sectors of the economy. A pilot Attract Back/In digital campaign was developed by NI Connections in 2019 targeting the overseas diaspora to promote opportunities in the Fintech sector. In light of the traction of the pilot with employers and potential candidates, a second digital campaign launched in February 2021 focussed on promoting Cyber Security opportunities. The campaign features a spectrum of NI Cyber and Technology employers from across the NI Cyber ecosystem https://www.niconnections.com/cyber Both campaigns showcase the strength of the sectors to a global audience whilst simultaneously highlighting career opportunities for those wishing to return or relocate. The campaigns have also served to present a partnership approach across the tech ecosystem to build a talent pool to drive continued growth. Appetite for company participation has been strong, traction with the diaspora encouraging and feedback from the wider technology sector has been positive. NI Connections will continue to run attract back / in campaigns as part of the Economic Recovery Action Plan in response to industry demand in high value sectors identified in the Recovery plan.","answerHtml":"Northern Irish Connections (NIC) is the global diaspora initiative for Northern Ireland. Led by a team based in Invest NI’s International Investment Group, its fundamental aim is to engage with the Northern Irish diaspora to harness the influence and contribution which this group can bring to the future economic growth of the region including the potential to attract experienced talent to thriving sectors of the economy. A pilot Attract Back/In digital campaign was developed by NI Connections in 2019 targeting the overseas diaspora to promote opportunities in the Fintech sector. In light of the traction of the pilot with employers and potential candidates, a second digital campaign launched in February 2021 focussed on promoting Cyber Security opportunities. The campaign features a spectrum of NI Cyber and Technology employers from across the NI Cyber ecosystem https://www.niconnections.com/cyber Both campaigns showcase the strength of the sectors to a global audience whilst simultaneously highlighting career opportunities for those wishing to return or relocate. The campaigns have also served to present a partnership approach across the tech ecosystem to build a talent pool to drive continued growth. Appetite for company participation has been strong, traction with the diaspora encouraging and feedback from the wider technology sector has been positive. NI Connections will continue to run attract back / in campaigns as part of the Economic Recovery Action Plan in response to industry demand in high value sectors identified in the Recovery plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2016045%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330517"}},{"id":"330192","reference":"AQW 15984/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline (i) the current policies in place to ensure gender equality in pay and opportunities throughout the public and private sectors; and (ii) their assessment of the success of these policies to date.","answerText":"Policy responsibility for gender matters now rests with the Department for Communities (DfC) following the reorganisation of departments in 2016. DfC is currently working to develop a new Gender Strategy.\n\nSection 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 allocated responsibility to the Executive Office for the reporting of gender pay differentials and the development of a strategy and action plan to eliminate gender pay differences.\n\nThe timing of the Employment Act and the subsequent absence of an Assembly prevented the allocation of these gender pay provisions to DfC. However a Transfer of Functions Order to transfer responsibility for them from TEO to DfC is currently in preparation.","answerHtml":"Policy responsibility for gender matters now rests with the Department for Communities (DfC) following the reorganisation of departments in 2016. DfC is currently working to develop a new Gender Strategy.
Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 allocated responsibility to the Executive Office for the reporting of gender pay differentials and the development of a strategy and action plan to eliminate gender pay differences.
The timing of the Employment Act and the subsequent absence of an Assembly prevented the allocation of these gender pay provisions to DfC. However a Transfer of Functions Order to transfer responsibility for them from TEO to DfC is currently in preparation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015984%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330192"}},{"id":"330191","reference":"AQW 15983/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline the steps taken by his Department to (i) reduce; and (ii) protect communities from rural crime.","answerText":"The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has primary responsibility for preventing and detecting rural crime in Northern Ireland. Rural crime covers a wide range of crime including theft of machinery, burglaries of isolated farms and livestock crime.\n\nThe PSNI issues regular updates on agriculture and rural crime statistics and trends. The latest report is available at Agricultural and Rural Crime in Northern Ireland Update to 31st December 2020 (psni.police.uk). This report shows a downward trend over the last decade and a reduction of 14.1% of reported crimes in 2020.\n\nMy Department has a key responsibility in relation to preventing and detecting livestock crime as the theft of animals or illegal movements of animals undermines our animal health controls and animal and food traceability.\n\nThe Department’s Welfare & Enforcement Branch spearheads the Department’s work in this area through collaboration with the PSNI and other agencies; providing training, advice and communications; and taking enforcement measures including livestock seizures and prosecutions.\n\nThe role of the Department in tackling rural crime includes:\n\nFounder member of the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP) which brings together representatives from key organisations, including the PSNI, the Department of Justice, Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU Mutual, Federation of Small Businesses and Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster. The primary purpose of the RCP is to contribute to the Programme for Government overall aim to reduce crime and harm and vulnerability caused by crime by acting as a regional strategic multi-sectoral and multi-agency group that facilitates collaboration and sharing of best practice to successfully address crime occurring in rural communities in Northern Ireland.\n\nShared responsibility for delivery of the detailed RCP Rural Crime Action Plan which has strands covering Prevent & Protect; Partnership Working; and Enforcement.\n\nWorking with the charity Crimestoppers to encourage reporting and ask the public to give information anonymously about rural crime across Northern Ireland.\n\nWelfare & Enforcement Branch training of rural based Police Officers, through a Livestock Awareness Course, to upskill them to deal effectively with rural crime:\n\nhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA4NP4vNIos&sns=em\n\nMembership of the operational cross-border multi-agency Rural Crime Taskforce which includes the PSNI, an Garda Síochána, Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, Revenue & Customs (RoI) and the Food Standards Agency. This taskforce targets, investigates and prosecutes serious rural crime, often with a cross border dimension including livestock theft and smuggling.\n\nEnforcement activities to ensure compliance with our strict animal traceability regulations (Identification, Registration & Movement – IRM) through enforcement cattle identification inspections (CIIs); unidentified livestock seizures and destruction; animal DNA checks on farms and at abattoirs; and criminal investigations and prosecutions for breaches of IRM Regulations.\n\nThe Department also funds the charity Rural Support which provides both advice and support to rural communities through a number of measures including:\n\nA support line which regularly deals with cases where rural crime has impacted both financially and personally in relation to anxiety and mental distress.\n\nRegularly working with the PSNI at mart events and agricultural shows in regards to raising awareness and encouraging trailer/equipment marking in particular.\n\nProactively delivering key messages around rural crime through its social media platforms and website.\n\nDeveloping a new online farming resources hub (due for launch in the coming weeks) – supported by DAERA and in partnership with HSENI – which will have a section on rural crime and ways to minimise risk.","answerHtml":"The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) has primary responsibility for preventing and detecting rural crime in Northern Ireland. Rural crime covers a wide range of crime including theft of machinery, burglaries of isolated farms and livestock crime.
The PSNI issues regular updates on agriculture and rural crime statistics and trends. The latest report is available at Agricultural and Rural Crime in Northern Ireland Update to 31st December 2020 (psni.police.uk). This report shows a downward trend over the last decade and a reduction of 14.1% of reported crimes in 2020.
My Department has a key responsibility in relation to preventing and detecting livestock crime as the theft of animals or illegal movements of animals undermines our animal health controls and animal and food traceability.
The Department’s Welfare & Enforcement Branch spearheads the Department’s work in this area through collaboration with the PSNI and other agencies; providing training, advice and communications; and taking enforcement measures including livestock seizures and prosecutions.
The role of the Department in tackling rural crime includes:
Founder member of the Rural Crime Partnership (RCP) which brings together representatives from key organisations, including the PSNI, the Department of Justice, Ulster Farmers’ Union, NFU Mutual, Federation of Small Businesses and Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster. The primary purpose of the RCP is to contribute to the Programme for Government overall aim to reduce crime and harm and vulnerability caused by crime by acting as a regional strategic multi-sectoral and multi-agency group that facilitates collaboration and sharing of best practice to successfully address crime occurring in rural communities in Northern Ireland.
Shared responsibility for delivery of the detailed RCP Rural Crime Action Plan which has strands covering Prevent & Protect; Partnership Working; and Enforcement.
Working with the charity Crimestoppers to encourage reporting and ask the public to give information anonymously about rural crime across Northern Ireland.
Welfare & Enforcement Branch training of rural based Police Officers, through a Livestock Awareness Course, to upskill them to deal effectively with rural crime:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CA4NP4vNIos&sns=em
Membership of the operational cross-border multi-agency Rural Crime Taskforce which includes the PSNI, an Garda Síochána, Her Majesty’s Revenue & Customs, Revenue & Customs (RoI) and the Food Standards Agency. This taskforce targets, investigates and prosecutes serious rural crime, often with a cross border dimension including livestock theft and smuggling.
Enforcement activities to ensure compliance with our strict animal traceability regulations (Identification, Registration & Movement – IRM) through enforcement cattle identification inspections (CIIs); unidentified livestock seizures and destruction; animal DNA checks on farms and at abattoirs; and criminal investigations and prosecutions for breaches of IRM Regulations.
The Department also funds the charity Rural Support which provides both advice and support to rural communities through a number of measures including:
A support line which regularly deals with cases where rural crime has impacted both financially and personally in relation to anxiety and mental distress.
Regularly working with the PSNI at mart events and agricultural shows in regards to raising awareness and encouraging trailer/equipment marking in particular.
Proactively delivering key messages around rural crime through its social media platforms and website.
Developing a new online farming resources hub (due for launch in the coming weeks) – supported by DAERA and in partnership with HSENI – which will have a section on rural crime and ways to minimise risk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015983%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330191"}},{"id":"330190","reference":"AQW 15982/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) her intentions to change the current policy of licensing PSA-accredited British Acupuncture Council (BAcC) acupuncturists through the Miscellaneous Provisions Act, in line with England and Wales; and (ii) any concerns she has that BAcC acupuncturists have been unable to practice during the COVID lockdowns due to this categorisation.","answerText":"Anyone wishing to carry on the practice of acupuncture must be registered with their local council. The premises from which they operate must also be registered. Which body or organisation provided any accreditation or qualification held by a practitioner has no bearing on this requirement.\n\nAcupuncturists, like any other close contact service, must comply with any relevant restrictions set out in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020. Again, any accreditation or qualification held by a practitioner is not relevant in this regard.","answerHtml":"Anyone wishing to carry on the practice of acupuncture must be registered with their local council. The premises from which they operate must also be registered. Which body or organisation provided any accreditation or qualification held by a practitioner has no bearing on this requirement.
Acupuncturists, like any other close contact service, must comply with any relevant restrictions set out in The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020. Again, any accreditation or qualification held by a practitioner is not relevant in this regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015982%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330190"}},{"id":"330189","reference":"AQW 15981/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of (i) the anticipated one per cent pay rise offer for health workers; and (ii) the potential for strike action related to pay demands.","answerText":"The pay round for 2021/22 has not yet been finalised. The one per cent referred to is included in the evidence submitted to the NHS Pay Review Body by the Department of Health and Social Care in England, which stated that any award above 1% will require re-prioritisation. This is not an offer of a pay award.\n\nAny decision on a pay award for NI health workers will be taken after the pay review bodies make their recommendations. I do not intend to pre-empt those recommendations, nor speculate on the possibility of related industrial action. NHSPRB is expected to publish its report in May 2021.\n\nOur pay award decisions can also only be taken in the context of a wider public sector pay policy set by the Department of Finance.","answerHtml":"The pay round for 2021/22 has not yet been finalised. The one per cent referred to is included in the evidence submitted to the NHS Pay Review Body by the Department of Health and Social Care in England, which stated that any award above 1% will require re-prioritisation. This is not an offer of a pay award.
Any decision on a pay award for NI health workers will be taken after the pay review bodies make their recommendations. I do not intend to pre-empt those recommendations, nor speculate on the possibility of related industrial action. NHSPRB is expected to publish its report in May 2021.
Our pay award decisions can also only be taken in the context of a wider public sector pay policy set by the Department of Finance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015981%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330189"}},{"id":"330188","reference":"AQW 15980/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-08","answerBy":"2021-03-24","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of COVID-19 vaccines that have been dumped since the beginning of the vaccine roll-out.","answerText":"The member will be aware our Trusts and GPs are managing their vaccination programmes very efficiently to minimise any wastage of the vaccine.\n\nDue to this strategic planning Wastage rates in the current vaccination programme are far below usual wastage rates in other vaccination programmes. Latest figures suggest a wastage rate of 0.5% which reflects the measures already in place.","answerHtml":"The member will be aware our Trusts and GPs are managing their vaccination programmes very efficiently to minimise any wastage of the vaccine.
Due to this strategic planning Wastage rates in the current vaccination programme are far below usual wastage rates in other vaccination programmes. Latest figures suggest a wastage rate of 0.5% which reflects the measures already in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015980%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330188"}},{"id":"329947","reference":"AQW 15898/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-05","answerBy":"2021-03-23","answered":"2021-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the steps taken, and planned, to address coastal erosion and landslides in Northern Ireland as a result of climate change; and (ii) any conversations he has had with the National Trust in relation to the threat posed by such threats to the Giant’s Causeway.","answerText":"Previous Ministers have concluded that current Northern Ireland policy on coastal management, the Bateman Formula from 1967, is now outdated. In addition, the absence of specific legislation in Northern Ireland governing coastal change has resulted in a lack of data on the state of our coastline, and little understanding on how our coastline is changing.\n\nRecognising that current policy is no longer considered effective, in 2015 a Coastal Forum was established and co-chaired by the then Ministers for the Department of Regional Development and the Department of the Environment to discuss coastal issues and seek to adopt a more strategic approach to coastal change.\n\nCurrent membership of the Coastal Forum comprises DAERA, DfI, Chief Executives of coastal councils and the NI Director of the National Trust, with access to expert advice as required. Its remit is to address gaps in Northern Ireland coastal management evidence and policy. I have called a meeting with Minister Mallon of DfI for later this month to discuss future arrangements for the Coastal Forum.\n\nAn analysis of existing Northern Ireland coastal data commissioned by the previous DAERA and DfI Ministers, which was published in 2019, concluded that scientifically robust data was required for the entire Northern Ireland coast to provide a basis for effective management policies.\n\nMy officials have worked closely with DfI and Coastal Forum members to devise a comprehensive Work Programme which is being managed by a Working Group of the Coastal Forum. The priority objective is to address the significant gaps in our coastline data and provide a reliable evidence base for effective coastal management. The Working Group has also provided decision makers with a position paper outlining current policy and best practice for Northern Ireland in the absence of data on coastal change.\n\nMy Department has recently secured £400,000 funding to address the lack of coastal data and contracts have been let to undertake a comprehensive coastal survey covering the entire Northern Ireland coast in early 2021. Supporting research on wave climate affecting the Ards Peninsula is ongoing, funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. My Department is also seeking further funding for this work area.\n\nThe National Trust is a key stakeholder in coastal management, responsible for 22% of the Northern Ireland coastline. As the Coastal Forum is the agreed mechanism through which members work collaboratively in progressing coastal issues, the National Trust have direct and ongoing input into the decision making process. I have recently agreed to meet the NI Director of the National Trust to discuss the development of updated coastal policy for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Previous Ministers have concluded that current Northern Ireland policy on coastal management, the Bateman Formula from 1967, is now outdated. In addition, the absence of specific legislation in Northern Ireland governing coastal change has resulted in a lack of data on the state of our coastline, and little understanding on how our coastline is changing.
Recognising that current policy is no longer considered effective, in 2015 a Coastal Forum was established and co-chaired by the then Ministers for the Department of Regional Development and the Department of the Environment to discuss coastal issues and seek to adopt a more strategic approach to coastal change.
Current membership of the Coastal Forum comprises DAERA, DfI, Chief Executives of coastal councils and the NI Director of the National Trust, with access to expert advice as required. Its remit is to address gaps in Northern Ireland coastal management evidence and policy. I have called a meeting with Minister Mallon of DfI for later this month to discuss future arrangements for the Coastal Forum.
An analysis of existing Northern Ireland coastal data commissioned by the previous DAERA and DfI Ministers, which was published in 2019, concluded that scientifically robust data was required for the entire Northern Ireland coast to provide a basis for effective management policies.
My officials have worked closely with DfI and Coastal Forum members to devise a comprehensive Work Programme which is being managed by a Working Group of the Coastal Forum. The priority objective is to address the significant gaps in our coastline data and provide a reliable evidence base for effective coastal management. The Working Group has also provided decision makers with a position paper outlining current policy and best practice for Northern Ireland in the absence of data on coastal change.
My Department has recently secured £400,000 funding to address the lack of coastal data and contracts have been let to undertake a comprehensive coastal survey covering the entire Northern Ireland coast in early 2021. Supporting research on wave climate affecting the Ards Peninsula is ongoing, funded by the European Maritime and Fisheries Fund. My Department is also seeking further funding for this work area.
The National Trust is a key stakeholder in coastal management, responsible for 22% of the Northern Ireland coastline. As the Coastal Forum is the agreed mechanism through which members work collaboratively in progressing coastal issues, the National Trust have direct and ongoing input into the decision making process. I have recently agreed to meet the NI Director of the National Trust to discuss the development of updated coastal policy for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015898%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329947"}},{"id":"329946","reference":"AQW 15897/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-05","answerBy":"2021-03-23","answered":"2021-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) what action he is taking to incentivise businesses wishing to work in the green economy; and (ii) what new money will be available in 2021/22 for such businesses and schemes.","answerText":"DAERA is leading on the development of a multi-decade Green Growth Strategy and Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland, on behalf of the Executive using a co-design approach. This Strategy will be our route map to climate action, green jobs and a clean environment. Our approach recognises the importance of working together and anchoring green growth in all our policies, strategies and programmes.\n\nAs part of our co-design process, DAERA will facilitate engagement with other Departments, Local Government and stakeholders from across the business and voluntary sectors. This engagement will commence shortly. It is therefore too early to detail any new incentives, levers or financial support which may be put in place to assist businesses in the transformation to a resilient, greener, low carbon and circular economy for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"DAERA is leading on the development of a multi-decade Green Growth Strategy and Climate Action Plan for Northern Ireland, on behalf of the Executive using a co-design approach. This Strategy will be our route map to climate action, green jobs and a clean environment. Our approach recognises the importance of working together and anchoring green growth in all our policies, strategies and programmes.
As part of our co-design process, DAERA will facilitate engagement with other Departments, Local Government and stakeholders from across the business and voluntary sectors. This engagement will commence shortly. It is therefore too early to detail any new incentives, levers or financial support which may be put in place to assist businesses in the transformation to a resilient, greener, low carbon and circular economy for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015897%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329946","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329946"}},{"id":"329945","reference":"AQW 15896/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-05","answerBy":"2021-03-23","answered":"2021-06-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any anticipated rise in demand for the treatment of mental health issues in the coming year; and (ii) the steps he is taking to meet this demand.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) has explored the evidence around the rising demand in mental health care and treatment, and has made a series of initial projections of how this would translate in the Northern Ireland context. It estimates that there will be up to 32% more new referrals to mental health services over the next three years.\n\nA key element of responding to this emerging mental health need has been the development of a new Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, which I anticipate publishing soon. It will set the future strategic direction of mental health in Northern Ireland for the next decade, and will take full cognisance of the impact of the pandemic.\n\nMy Department and the HSCB are also working together on the development of a Regional Mental Health Surge and Rebuild Plan, which will outline the proposed approach to medium and longer term planning for managing the surge and rebuild across the Stepped Care Framework in line with the 10 year strategy, together with key actions required over the next 6-12 months to manage increasing referral rates and to prepare for longer term rebuild, reform and redesign. This work will be overseen by a Mental Health Pandemic Response Group which will be chaired by the Department and will comprise colleagues from the HSCB, PHA and HSC Trusts.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) has explored the evidence around the rising demand in mental health care and treatment, and has made a series of initial projections of how this would translate in the Northern Ireland context. It estimates that there will be up to 32% more new referrals to mental health services over the next three years.
A key element of responding to this emerging mental health need has been the development of a new Mental Health Strategy 2021-2031, which I anticipate publishing soon. It will set the future strategic direction of mental health in Northern Ireland for the next decade, and will take full cognisance of the impact of the pandemic.
My Department and the HSCB are also working together on the development of a Regional Mental Health Surge and Rebuild Plan, which will outline the proposed approach to medium and longer term planning for managing the surge and rebuild across the Stepped Care Framework in line with the 10 year strategy, together with key actions required over the next 6-12 months to manage increasing referral rates and to prepare for longer term rebuild, reform and redesign. This work will be overseen by a Mental Health Pandemic Response Group which will be chaired by the Department and will comprise colleagues from the HSCB, PHA and HSC Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015896%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329945"}},{"id":"329944","reference":"AQW 15895/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-05","answerBy":"2021-03-23","answered":"2021-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether the Bushmills Education Centre will benefit from the recently announced funding for such centres; and (ii) to detail the alternative educational uses being considered for the centre if it is not to receive support funding.","answerText":"The Outdoor Education Centre Covid Relief funding is open to voluntary youth organisations that routinely provided curricular-relevant, residential outdoor learning opportunities for children and young people aged 4-24 years before April 2020, and that can demonstrate a negative financial impact as a result of a loss of residential activity since the emergence of the current pandemic.\n\nIn addition to residential outdoor centre programmes it is recognised that during the period April 2020 to March 2021 Covid-19 restrictions had an impact on the delivery many annual residential events and programmes. These larger scale events are planned in advance of delivery and can incur costs leading up to the event or programme.\n\nThe Bushmills Outdoor Learning Centre has not provided residential or outdoor learning activities since its closure in December 2017 and would not meet the funding criteria to avail of the Outdoor learning Centre Covid Relief funding.\n\nThe future development and refurbishment of the Bushmills Oasis Centre will provide opportunity for a multi-disciplinary approach to the delivery of Youth Services within the North Coast area. The Oasis Centre will facilitate a new office base for the Causeway Coast and Glens Youth Office and Creative Digital imaging studio for the development and training of young people in digital arts.\n\nThe centre will also facilitate the provision of a new REACH service (Resilience Education Allowing Change to Happen). This supports the development of trauma informed youth work, with a focus on developing positive mental health for children and young people aged 9 – 25 years. The service will provide 4 x workshop spaces and offices for full-time staff facilitating the service.\n\nThe development of a Peripatetic Outdoor Learning Service based within the Bushmills Oasis Centre site will provide great opportunities to develop the Outdoor learning provision within the local area. The peripatetic Outdoor Instructors will work alongside local schools and youth groups to engage children and young people both within the Bushmills Oasis Youth Centre grounds and using the natural surrounding environment to provide experiential outdoor learning experiences.\n\nI hope this information is helpful in answering your queries. Please do not hesitate to contact Peter Parke, Head of Outdoor Learning Service peter.parke@eani.org.uk if you require any further information regarding this matter.","answerHtml":"The Outdoor Education Centre Covid Relief funding is open to voluntary youth organisations that routinely provided curricular-relevant, residential outdoor learning opportunities for children and young people aged 4-24 years before April 2020, and that can demonstrate a negative financial impact as a result of a loss of residential activity since the emergence of the current pandemic.
In addition to residential outdoor centre programmes it is recognised that during the period April 2020 to March 2021 Covid-19 restrictions had an impact on the delivery many annual residential events and programmes. These larger scale events are planned in advance of delivery and can incur costs leading up to the event or programme.
The Bushmills Outdoor Learning Centre has not provided residential or outdoor learning activities since its closure in December 2017 and would not meet the funding criteria to avail of the Outdoor learning Centre Covid Relief funding.
The future development and refurbishment of the Bushmills Oasis Centre will provide opportunity for a multi-disciplinary approach to the delivery of Youth Services within the North Coast area. The Oasis Centre will facilitate a new office base for the Causeway Coast and Glens Youth Office and Creative Digital imaging studio for the development and training of young people in digital arts.
The centre will also facilitate the provision of a new REACH service (Resilience Education Allowing Change to Happen). This supports the development of trauma informed youth work, with a focus on developing positive mental health for children and young people aged 9 – 25 years. The service will provide 4 x workshop spaces and offices for full-time staff facilitating the service.
The development of a Peripatetic Outdoor Learning Service based within the Bushmills Oasis Centre site will provide great opportunities to develop the Outdoor learning provision within the local area. The peripatetic Outdoor Instructors will work alongside local schools and youth groups to engage children and young people both within the Bushmills Oasis Youth Centre grounds and using the natural surrounding environment to provide experiential outdoor learning experiences.
I hope this information is helpful in answering your queries. Please do not hesitate to contact Peter Parke, Head of Outdoor Learning Service peter.parke@eani.org.uk if you require any further information regarding this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015895%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329944"}},{"id":"329943","reference":"AQW 15894/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-05","answerBy":"2021-03-23","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the Sexual Orientation Strategy, including (i) a ban on conversion therapy; and (ii) the formation and work of the (a) Expert Panel; (b) Co-Design Group; and (c) Cross Departmental Working Group.","answerText":"The Sexual Orientation Expert Advisory Panel was appointed in October 2020 and was tasked with identifying the themes and key actions the Strategy should include and the gaps in provision that it should seek to address. The Panel’s Report was published on 5 March 2021 and includes recommendations which will be considered in more detail during development of the Strategy. These recommendations include a ban on conversion therapy.\n\nThe Co-Design Group is made up of key stakeholders from the LGBT sector and is responsible for advising on the development of the Strategy and supporting action plan. The Group is co-chaired by a DfC official and a member voted for by the Group. The Cross-departmental Working Group, which is comprised of officials from appropriate Departments, is responsible for providing input and expertise to the development of the Strategy and associated action plan to ensure they are targeted, measurable and deliverable. Both Groups meet on a monthly basis to support the ongoing development of the Strategy.\n\nThe draft Strategy, including agreed actions targeted at ending conversion therapy, will be subject to public consultation and will be published in December 2021, subject to Executive agreement. More details can be found on my Department’s website www.communities-ni.gov.uk/articles/sexual-orientation-strategy .","answerHtml":"The Sexual Orientation Expert Advisory Panel was appointed in October 2020 and was tasked with identifying the themes and key actions the Strategy should include and the gaps in provision that it should seek to address. The Panel’s Report was published on 5 March 2021 and includes recommendations which will be considered in more detail during development of the Strategy. These recommendations include a ban on conversion therapy.
The Co-Design Group is made up of key stakeholders from the LGBT sector and is responsible for advising on the development of the Strategy and supporting action plan. The Group is co-chaired by a DfC official and a member voted for by the Group. The Cross-departmental Working Group, which is comprised of officials from appropriate Departments, is responsible for providing input and expertise to the development of the Strategy and associated action plan to ensure they are targeted, measurable and deliverable. Both Groups meet on a monthly basis to support the ongoing development of the Strategy.
The draft Strategy, including agreed actions targeted at ending conversion therapy, will be subject to public consultation and will be published in December 2021, subject to Executive agreement. More details can be found on my Department’s website www.communities-ni.gov.uk/articles/sexual-orientation-strategy .
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015894%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329943"}},{"id":"329726","reference":"AQW 15819/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-04","answerBy":"2021-03-22","answered":"2021-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the actions he is taking to increase the provision of special needs education facilities, including the number and capacity of special schools, for nursery age pupils and upwards, with special educational needs, in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Education Authority has commenced a body of work to identify and anticipate the need for additional school places for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) across Northern Ireland in both Special School and mainstream settings. EA senior staff meet regularly with senior Departmental officials to provide updates on progress.\n\nThe EA is currently consulting on two draft Area Planning frameworks, one for Special Schools and one for Specialist Provision at Mainstream Schools, including the proposal to move towards a consistent model of provision from 3 – 19 years across the Special School estate. The public consultations are open until 12 April 2021. Following the closure of the consultation and analysis of the responses, the EA will bring forward a strategic area plan for Special Schools and specialist provision in mainstream.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has commenced a body of work to identify and anticipate the need for additional school places for children with Special Educational Needs (SEN) across Northern Ireland in both Special School and mainstream settings. EA senior staff meet regularly with senior Departmental officials to provide updates on progress.
The EA is currently consulting on two draft Area Planning frameworks, one for Special Schools and one for Specialist Provision at Mainstream Schools, including the proposal to move towards a consistent model of provision from 3 – 19 years across the Special School estate. The public consultations are open until 12 April 2021. Following the closure of the consultation and analysis of the responses, the EA will bring forward a strategic area plan for Special Schools and specialist provision in mainstream.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015819%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329726"}},{"id":"329725","reference":"AQW 15818/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-04","answerBy":"2021-03-22","answered":"2021-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the number of children, from nursery upwards, with special educational needs who have applied for, but not been allocated, a place at the special school closest to them; (ii) the reasons for this; (iii) the mechanism by which places at special schools are allocated; (iv) the transport arrangements in place for those pupils who have not been allocated places at their closest special school; and (v) any other support that exists for parents of these pupils.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) was able to secure places for all children who required placement however, 28 children at nursery level were not able to be placed at the closest special school. The EA did not keep a record of those children at primary or post primary who were unable to be placed at their closest special school.\n\nIssues around placements were a consequence of cumulative pressures over a number of years.\n\nThe mechanism by which places at special schools are allocated, is governed by the statutory framework within the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 and the Education (Special Educational Needs) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005. Parental preference must also be considered pursuant to Article 44 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986. The EA works in cooperation with schools and parents and makes every effort to ensure that children are placed in the school of parental preference, subject to statutory considerations.\n\nAll children are subject to the EA’s Transport Policy. The EA provides transport to the vast majority of children who are attending a special school setting including some children who have not been allocated places at their closest special school. The EA has a statutory duty to transport children where transport has been named on their Statement of Special Educational Needs, whether the school is the closest special school or not.\n\nThe EA also provides a range of other support for parents including allocating a named Special Educational Needs (SEN) Link Officer to families; providing Pupil Support Services for a range of special educational and medical needs and the SEN Early Years’ Service and the SEN Inclusion Service.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) was able to secure places for all children who required placement however, 28 children at nursery level were not able to be placed at the closest special school. The EA did not keep a record of those children at primary or post primary who were unable to be placed at their closest special school.
Issues around placements were a consequence of cumulative pressures over a number of years.
The mechanism by which places at special schools are allocated, is governed by the statutory framework within the Education (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 and the Education (Special Educational Needs) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005. Parental preference must also be considered pursuant to Article 44 of the Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Order 1986. The EA works in cooperation with schools and parents and makes every effort to ensure that children are placed in the school of parental preference, subject to statutory considerations.
All children are subject to the EA’s Transport Policy. The EA provides transport to the vast majority of children who are attending a special school setting including some children who have not been allocated places at their closest special school. The EA has a statutory duty to transport children where transport has been named on their Statement of Special Educational Needs, whether the school is the closest special school or not.
The EA also provides a range of other support for parents including allocating a named Special Educational Needs (SEN) Link Officer to families; providing Pupil Support Services for a range of special educational and medical needs and the SEN Early Years’ Service and the SEN Inclusion Service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015818%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329725"}},{"id":"329724","reference":"AQW 15817/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-04","answerBy":"2021-03-22","answered":"2021-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 14955/17-22, for her assessment of the significant increase in the number of applicants for social housing and people in housing stress in East Londonderry in the year from December 2019 to December 2020.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that following the first lockdown in March 2020, changes to the annual renewals process and procedures were made to accommodate the COVID-19 restrictions. These changes remained in place in December 2020 and may have resulted in a number of applicants being retained on the Waiting List, who would otherwise have been removed under normal operational activity.\n\nDue to the PHA and Government restrictions, the work that the Housing Executive could complete during the first lockdown was restricted to emergency repairs only, which created a backlog for re-letting of properties. Although exempt from current restrictions, the latest lockdown has again impacted its ability to maintain normal services. New-build work has also been affected, meaning fewer new homes have been available to allocate in the same time frame.\n\nBoth the back-log of re-lets and decrease in available new build for allocations has undoubtedly resulted in a number of applicants remaining on the Waiting List during the pandemic who would otherwise have been rehoused and therefore removed from the list.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that following the first lockdown in March 2020, changes to the annual renewals process and procedures were made to accommodate the COVID-19 restrictions. These changes remained in place in December 2020 and may have resulted in a number of applicants being retained on the Waiting List, who would otherwise have been removed under normal operational activity.
Due to the PHA and Government restrictions, the work that the Housing Executive could complete during the first lockdown was restricted to emergency repairs only, which created a backlog for re-letting of properties. Although exempt from current restrictions, the latest lockdown has again impacted its ability to maintain normal services. New-build work has also been affected, meaning fewer new homes have been available to allocate in the same time frame.
Both the back-log of re-lets and decrease in available new build for allocations has undoubtedly resulted in a number of applicants remaining on the Waiting List during the pandemic who would otherwise have been rehoused and therefore removed from the list.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015817%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329724"}},{"id":"329723","reference":"AQW 15816/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-04","answerBy":"2021-03-22","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 14955/17-22, to detail the steps taken by her Department to (i) reduce the number of (a) applicants; and (b) applicants in housing stress in East Londonderry; and (ii) increase the number of allocations to applicants.","answerText":"I have set out an ambitious and long-term plan to increase the supply of social and also affordable housing and to reduce housing stress. My plan includes:\n\nChanging the status of the landlord part of the Housing Executive so that it can borrow, invest in its homes and ultimately start building again;\n\nBringing forward a consultation on the future of the Housing Executive House Sales Scheme, as soon as practicably possible in order to protect the current supply of social housing;\n\nReintroducing ring-fencing of the new build Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) to prioritise areas of highest housing need.\n\nIntroducing reform of the social housing allocations system;\n\nEnsuring the Housing Executive prioritises adaptations;\n\nDeveloping new ways to help people into home ownership and continuing to support shared ownership schemes, such as, Co-Ownership;\n\nExpanding the rental options available by introducing intermediate rent to provide an additional supply of good quality, well managed and maintained homes, which are affordable for lower income families;\n\nWorking proactively to prioritise actions to improve our response to homelessness with a continued focus on prevention rather than management; and\n\nDeveloping a Housing Supply Strategy to provide a framework for addressing those whole system issues that impact on housing supply and the delivery of the right volume and types of homes to meet our changing housing need and demand.\n\nIn the shorter term the key action taken to reduce the numbers of Housing Applicants, including those in Housing Stress; and to increase the number of allocations, is to deliver new social housing through the Social Housing Development Programme.\n\nIn the East Derry Parliamentary constituency there have been 52 new social housing units completed to-date in 2020/21. These units are detailed in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1: Social housing completions to-date in 2020/21 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tStrategic Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\nChoice\tBeresford Avenue\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t14\t2019/20\nClanmil\t13 Union Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tActive Elderly\tUrban\t18\t2017/18\nHabinteg\t45 Girona Avenue\tPortrush\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t7\t2018/19\nHabinteg\t45 Girona Avenue\tPortrush\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t3\t2018/19\nRural\tSite adjacent to 299 Foreglen Road\tForeglen\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t3\t2019/20\nTriangle\t21 Parklea\tPortstewart\tExisting Satisfactory Purchase\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t1\t2016/17\nTriangle\t22 Ashdale\tColeraine\tExisting Satisfactory Purchase\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t1\t2016/17\nTriangle\t8-10 Upper Captain Street\tColeraine\tExisting Satisfactory Purchase\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t5\t2016/17\n\nA further 132 new social housing units are under construction. These units are detailed in Table 2 below.\n\nTable 2: Social housing units under construction in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tStrategic Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3 (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t18\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3 (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tRural\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3A (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tRural\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nArk\tRailway Road\tColeraine\tOff-the-Shelf\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t12\t2020/21\t2021/22\nChoice\tThe Hill, Portstewart\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t9\t2020/21\t2022/23\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t57\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tActive Elderly\tUrban\t12\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t6\t2019/20\t2021/22\nTriangle\tPortstewart Road\tColeraine\tOff-the-Shelf\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t6\t2019/20\t2020/21\nTriangle\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T)\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nTriangle\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T)\tColeraine\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t3\t2020/21\t2021/22\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tStrategic Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3 (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t18\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3 (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tRural\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tHass Road Phase 3A (T)\tDungiven\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tRural\t1\t2020/21\t2021/22\nArk\tRailway Road\tColeraine\tOff-the-Shelf\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t12\t2020/21\t2021/22\nChoice\tThe Hill, Portstewart\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t9\t2020/21\t2022/23\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t57\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tActive Elderly\tUrban\t12\t2019/20\t2021/22\nRadius\t(Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road\tPortstewart\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t6\t2019/20\t2021/22\nTriangle\tPortstewart Road\tColeraine\tOff-the-Shelf\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t6\t2019/20\t2020/21\nTriangle\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T)\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nTriangle\tHarpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T)\tColeraine\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t3\t2020/21\t2021/22\n\nA total of 95 units are currently programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2020/21 – 2022/23. These units are detailed in Table 3 below.\n\nTable 3: Social housing units programmed to start 2020/21 – 2022/23 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency\n\nHousing Association\tScheme Name\tLocation\tType\tNeed Group\tStrategic Group\tUnits\tOnsite Year\tCompletionYear\nChoice\tKeely Gardens (T)\tAghadowey\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t4\t2020/21\t2021/22\nApex Housing\tCoastguard Road\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tRural\t6\t2021/22\t2022/23\nChoice\tCaptain Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t31\t2021/22\t2023/24\nChoice\tCaptain Street\tColeraine\tNew Build\tWheelchair\tUrban\t4\t2021/22\t2023/24\nChoice\tBeresford Avenue\tColeraine\tNew Build\tGeneral Needs\tUrban\t50\t2022/23\t2024/25","answerHtml":"I have set out an ambitious and long-term plan to increase the supply of social and also affordable housing and to reduce housing stress. My plan includes:
Changing the status of the landlord part of the Housing Executive so that it can borrow, invest in its homes and ultimately start building again;
Bringing forward a consultation on the future of the Housing Executive House Sales Scheme, as soon as practicably possible in order to protect the current supply of social housing;
Reintroducing ring-fencing of the new build Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) to prioritise areas of highest housing need.
Introducing reform of the social housing allocations system;
Ensuring the Housing Executive prioritises adaptations;
Developing new ways to help people into home ownership and continuing to support shared ownership schemes, such as, Co-Ownership;
Expanding the rental options available by introducing intermediate rent to provide an additional supply of good quality, well managed and maintained homes, which are affordable for lower income families;
Working proactively to prioritise actions to improve our response to homelessness with a continued focus on prevention rather than management; and
Developing a Housing Supply Strategy to provide a framework for addressing those whole system issues that impact on housing supply and the delivery of the right volume and types of homes to meet our changing housing need and demand.
In the shorter term the key action taken to reduce the numbers of Housing Applicants, including those in Housing Stress; and to increase the number of allocations, is to deliver new social housing through the Social Housing Development Programme.
In the East Derry Parliamentary constituency there have been 52 new social housing units completed to-date in 2020/21. These units are detailed in Table 1 below.
Table 1: Social housing completions to-date in 2020/21 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Strategic Group | Units | Onsite Year |
| Choice | Beresford Avenue | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 14 | 2019/20 |
| Clanmil | 13 Union Street | Coleraine | New Build | Active Elderly | Urban | 18 | 2017/18 |
| Habinteg | 45 Girona Avenue | Portrush | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 7 | 2018/19 |
| Habinteg | 45 Girona Avenue | Portrush | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 3 | 2018/19 |
| Rural | Site adjacent to 299 Foreglen Road | Foreglen | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 3 | 2019/20 |
| Triangle | 21 Parklea | Portstewart | Existing Satisfactory Purchase | General Needs | Urban | 1 | 2016/17 |
| Triangle | 22 Ashdale | Coleraine | Existing Satisfactory Purchase | General Needs | Urban | 1 | 2016/17 |
| Triangle | 8-10 Upper Captain Street | Coleraine | Existing Satisfactory Purchase | General Needs | Urban | 5 | 2016/17 |
A further 132 new social housing units are under construction. These units are detailed in Table 2 below.
Table 2: Social housing units under construction in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Strategic Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 (T) | Dungiven | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 18 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 (T) | Dungiven | New Build | Wheelchair | Rural | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3A (T) | Dungiven | New Build | Wheelchair | Rural | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Ark | Railway Road | Coleraine | Off-the-Shelf | General Needs | Urban | 12 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Choice | The Hill, Portstewart | Portstewart | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 9 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 57 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | New Build | Active Elderly | Urban | 12 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 6 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Triangle | Portstewart Road | Coleraine | Off-the-Shelf | General Needs | Urban | 6 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 |
| Triangle | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T) | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Triangle | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T) | Coleraine | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 3 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Strategic Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 (T) | Dungiven | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 18 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3 (T) | Dungiven | New Build | Wheelchair | Rural | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Hass Road Phase 3A (T) | Dungiven | New Build | Wheelchair | Rural | 1 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Ark | Railway Road | Coleraine | Off-the-Shelf | General Needs | Urban | 12 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Choice | The Hill, Portstewart | Portstewart | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 9 | 2020/21 | 2022/23 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 57 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | New Build | Active Elderly | Urban | 12 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Radius | (Site adjacent to 191) Coleraine Road | Portstewart | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 6 | 2019/20 | 2021/22 |
| Triangle | Portstewart Road | Coleraine | Off-the-Shelf | General Needs | Urban | 6 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 |
| Triangle | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T) | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Triangle | Harpurs Hill, Phase 2 (T) | Coleraine | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 3 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
A total of 95 units are currently programmed to start as part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) 2020/21 – 2022/23. These units are detailed in Table 3 below.
Table 3: Social housing units programmed to start 2020/21 – 2022/23 in East Derry Parliamentary Constituency
| Housing Association | Scheme Name | Location | Type | Need Group | Strategic Group | Units | Onsite Year | CompletionYear |
| Choice | Keely Gardens (T) | Aghadowey | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 4 | 2020/21 | 2021/22 |
| Apex Housing | Coastguard Road | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Rural | 6 | 2021/22 | 2022/23 |
| Choice | Captain Street | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 31 | 2021/22 | 2023/24 |
| Choice | Captain Street | Coleraine | New Build | Wheelchair | Urban | 4 | 2021/22 | 2023/24 |
| Choice | Beresford Avenue | Coleraine | New Build | General Needs | Urban | 50 | 2022/23 | 2024/25 |
Since vehicle testing was suspended in late March 2020 due to Covid-19, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has applied TECs to all eligible vehicles to ensure that they may continue to be driven legally on the road. From 20 July 2020, MOT testing resumed for priority vehicle groups, including those vehicles not able to avail of TECs. The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test appointment time.
In light of the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, I recently announced that existing TECs for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied.
New TECs or extensions to existing TECs will be applied automatically to allow vehicles to be taxed. Customers do not need to do anything until they receive a reminder notification from the DVA to present their vehicle for test.
The DVA is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 of its test centres. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at their preferred test centre, and they may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.
The demand for vehicle testing is high due in part to customers, who do not require a test, booking an appointment. To manage capacity, the DVA is currently identifying and cancelling vehicle tests which have been booked by customers even though their vehicle has a current TEC. It also makes additional vehicle test slots available daily at most centres and further slots may also become available due to cancellations. Customers are able to change existing appointments to a different test centre and time if a slot becomes available.
The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday at most test centres, and has started to release additional vehicle test appointments at most test centres for 17 March, 5 April, 6 April and 3 May 2021. From Monday 8 March, following conversion of an adjoining building at the Newbuildings test centre, additional testing capacity will be available to meet demand in the north-west.
The DVA encourages customers to check the booking system daily as vehicle slots become available at short notice. For those customers who are unable to secure a test date and whose MOT is due to expire within five days or has already expired, they should contact DVA customer services at dva.customerservices@infrastructure-ni.gov.uk and the DVA will seek to secure an urgent appointment for the customer.
Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA will continue to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
It is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015733%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329500"}},{"id":"329499","reference":"AQW 15732/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the council areas that demand planning permission to be obtained before issuing café pavement licences; and (ii) her assessment of the effects of any disparity in requirements on businesses within different council areas, in particular with reference to additional costs incurred by businesses required to obtain planning permission, including architect and council fees.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information.\n\nIt is the responsibility of each district council, under the Licensing of Pavement Cafés Act (NI) 2014 (the Act), to design a pavement café licensing regime appropriate to their area. The Act contains a significant degree of flexibility for councils to respond to local circumstances.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information.
It is the responsibility of each district council, under the Licensing of Pavement Cafés Act (NI) 2014 (the Act), to design a pavement café licensing regime appropriate to their area. The Act contains a significant degree of flexibility for councils to respond to local circumstances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015732%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329499","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329499"}},{"id":"329498","reference":"AQW 15731/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for her assessment of (i) the amount of money, £316,000 or 0.24 per cent of the total given out, that is to be reclaimed from the Renewable Heat Initiative scheme; and (ii) whether this figure is indicative or otherwise of the level at which the scheme was abused.","answerText":"(i) The figure quoted is the amount identified for recoupment following the closure of 747 Northern Ireland Non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (NIRHI) site inspections, that is, 66% of the total number of sites. The compliance process remains ongoing in respect of the remaining 390 sites and, therefore, the figure is unlikely to be representative of the total figure to be identified for recoupment under the Scheme. (ii) While potential non-compliances have been identified on almost all sites, the majority were able to be resolved following remedial action being taken by participants. The NIRHI Scheme regulations, as drafted, necessitate a high threshold for taking enforcement action. In 95% of those site inspection cases closed to date, the compliance investigation has not found sufficient evidence to confirm a breach of the requirements and ongoing obligations laid out in the Scheme legislation.","answerHtml":"(i) The figure quoted is the amount identified for recoupment following the closure of 747 Northern Ireland Non-domestic Renewable Heat Incentive (NIRHI) site inspections, that is, 66% of the total number of sites. The compliance process remains ongoing in respect of the remaining 390 sites and, therefore, the figure is unlikely to be representative of the total figure to be identified for recoupment under the Scheme. (ii) While potential non-compliances have been identified on almost all sites, the majority were able to be resolved following remedial action being taken by participants. The NIRHI Scheme regulations, as drafted, necessitate a high threshold for taking enforcement action. In 95% of those site inspection cases closed to date, the compliance investigation has not found sufficient evidence to confirm a breach of the requirements and ongoing obligations laid out in the Scheme legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015731%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329498","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329498"}},{"id":"329496","reference":"AQW 15729/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-03","answerBy":"2021-03-19","answered":"2021-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the biosecurity measures in place to prevent livestock diseases, such as avian influenza, entering Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Biosecurity measures range from the official controls in place across the entire food production and supply chain, to the education of industry through knowledge transfer and raising awareness via media channels. Some measures are statutory while many are industry-led in response to their recognition of the importance of effective biosecurity to safeguard their livestock and products.\n\nDisease surveillance and horizon scanning plays an important role in ensuring that threats to animal health are detected early, and in allowing risks to be mitigated.\n\nDAERA officials are members of several veterinary disease risk groups involved in horizon scanning for new and emerging diseases at a United Kingdom, European and International level. In December 2020, in the light of a heightened avian influenza alert status across Europe and the UK, my department moved quickly to establish controls to limit disease ingress into and / or spread within Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department also implements statutory disease surveillance programmes including annual surveys for exotic livestock diseases e.g. Avian Influenza, Bluetongue, Brucellosis; post-import testing and isolation requirements for other diseases e.g. Bluetongue, Maedi-Visna; and the inspection, testing and traceability and provenance control regimes carried out by official veterinarians working in Northern Ireland’s red and white meat processing plants.\n\nControls at NI ports and airports are also an important line of defence to prevent notifiable disease entry via imports of livestock or products of animal origin. DAERA officials screen these and detain illegal imports, again working closely with industry partners to educate and inform those travelling of the associated risks.\n\nTraining in the importance of biosecurity is provided within livestock training modules delivered by the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, and within the Business Development Group programmes. The DAERA Biosecurity code and other guidance is widely available on the DAERA website and we routinely encourage all primary producers to familiarise themselves with this Code.","answerHtml":"Biosecurity measures range from the official controls in place across the entire food production and supply chain, to the education of industry through knowledge transfer and raising awareness via media channels. Some measures are statutory while many are industry-led in response to their recognition of the importance of effective biosecurity to safeguard their livestock and products.
Disease surveillance and horizon scanning plays an important role in ensuring that threats to animal health are detected early, and in allowing risks to be mitigated.
DAERA officials are members of several veterinary disease risk groups involved in horizon scanning for new and emerging diseases at a United Kingdom, European and International level. In December 2020, in the light of a heightened avian influenza alert status across Europe and the UK, my department moved quickly to establish controls to limit disease ingress into and / or spread within Northern Ireland.
My Department also implements statutory disease surveillance programmes including annual surveys for exotic livestock diseases e.g. Avian Influenza, Bluetongue, Brucellosis; post-import testing and isolation requirements for other diseases e.g. Bluetongue, Maedi-Visna; and the inspection, testing and traceability and provenance control regimes carried out by official veterinarians working in Northern Ireland’s red and white meat processing plants.
Controls at NI ports and airports are also an important line of defence to prevent notifiable disease entry via imports of livestock or products of animal origin. DAERA officials screen these and detain illegal imports, again working closely with industry partners to educate and inform those travelling of the associated risks.
Training in the importance of biosecurity is provided within livestock training modules delivered by the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, and within the Business Development Group programmes. The DAERA Biosecurity code and other guidance is widely available on the DAERA website and we routinely encourage all primary producers to familiarise themselves with this Code.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015729%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329496"}},{"id":"329215","reference":"AQW 15626/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-02","answerBy":"2021-03-18","answered":"2021-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for her assessment of (i) the potential impact on customers, particularly older customers and those living in more rural areas, of the closure of more than half of the high street banks over the past 10 years; and (ii) the wider ramifications for town centres and high streets of the closures.","answerText":"My Department does not have direct responsibility for banks in Northern Ireland, as the regulation of financial services is a reserved matter. However, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (CCNI), one of my Department’s Non- Departmental Public Bodies, provides advice on consumer matters, including banking services. The closure of bank branches across Northern Ireland will impact on consumers who rely on accessing banking services and using cash. Research conducted for CCNI in November 2020 indicated that cash was the second highest form of day-to-day payment method for one-third of consumers, rising to half of older participants, aged 65 and over. The Post Office provides access to banking services for consumers through its Banking Framework Agreement. This includes the customers of the four main banks in Northern Ireland - Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank, Danske and AIB. The Post Office network has 480 branches throughout Northern Ireland, providing valuable access to banking services and cash in rural areas. CCNI supports LINK’s Financial Inclusion Programme which works to provide free-to-use cash machines in rural and deprived areas. Of the 1,800 LINK ATMs in Northern Ireland, LINK subsidises over 230 free ATMs which are located further than 1km from an alternative. The CCNI Coronavirus: Impact on Personal Finances webpage includes useful information on Access to Cash for Vulnerable People and Alternative Ways to Pay for Things. The continued implementation of the Covid-19 public health restrictions, closure of non-essential retail and the ‘stay at home’ health messaging has meant that it has not yet been possible to implement the High Street Stimulus Scheme. The focus of this scheme is to provide much needed economic stimulation for our local high streets. I remain supportive of the policy intervention and intend to put forward a bid to the Executive to implement the scheme in 2021/22.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have direct responsibility for banks in Northern Ireland, as the regulation of financial services is a reserved matter. However, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland (CCNI), one of my Department’s Non- Departmental Public Bodies, provides advice on consumer matters, including banking services. The closure of bank branches across Northern Ireland will impact on consumers who rely on accessing banking services and using cash. Research conducted for CCNI in November 2020 indicated that cash was the second highest form of day-to-day payment method for one-third of consumers, rising to half of older participants, aged 65 and over. The Post Office provides access to banking services for consumers through its Banking Framework Agreement. This includes the customers of the four main banks in Northern Ireland - Bank of Ireland, Ulster Bank, Danske and AIB. The Post Office network has 480 branches throughout Northern Ireland, providing valuable access to banking services and cash in rural areas. CCNI supports LINK’s Financial Inclusion Programme which works to provide free-to-use cash machines in rural and deprived areas. Of the 1,800 LINK ATMs in Northern Ireland, LINK subsidises over 230 free ATMs which are located further than 1km from an alternative. The CCNI Coronavirus: Impact on Personal Finances webpage includes useful information on Access to Cash for Vulnerable People and Alternative Ways to Pay for Things. The continued implementation of the Covid-19 public health restrictions, closure of non-essential retail and the ‘stay at home’ health messaging has meant that it has not yet been possible to implement the High Street Stimulus Scheme. The focus of this scheme is to provide much needed economic stimulation for our local high streets. I remain supportive of the policy intervention and intend to put forward a bid to the Executive to implement the scheme in 2021/22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015626%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329215"}},{"id":"329214","reference":"AQW 15625/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-02","answerBy":"2021-03-18","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of households in each constituency that provide foster care, for each of the last five years.","answerText":"Information on foster care households is not routinely recorded at the geographical level requested.\n\nHowever, foster care households, broken down by Health and Social Care Trusts, for each of the last five years, are set out in Table 1.\n\nTable 1: Number of registered foster care household at 31 March by Health and Social Care Trust\n\nHSC Trust\t31 March 2016\t31 March 2017\t31 March 2018\t31 March 2019\t31 March 2020\nBelfast\t374\t403\t449\t482\t472\nNorthern\t539\t483\t444\t467\t465\nSouth Eastern\t301\t302\t311\t388\t383\nSouthern\t349\t380\t417\t438\t420\nWestern\t387\t431\t468\t517\t479\nNorthern Ireland\t1,950\t1,999\t2,089\t2,292\t2,219\n\nSource: Delegated Statutory Functions Return.\n\nNote: Figures include kinship foster carers, non-kinship foster carers and professional foster carers. Figures exclude independent foster care providers, providers of specialist placements and kinship foster care households who are in the process of being assessed as kinship carers.","answerHtml":"Information on foster care households is not routinely recorded at the geographical level requested.
However, foster care households, broken down by Health and Social Care Trusts, for each of the last five years, are set out in Table 1.
Table 1: Number of registered foster care household at 31 March by Health and Social Care Trust
| HSC Trust | 31 March 2016 | 31 March 2017 | 31 March 2018 | 31 March 2019 | 31 March 2020 |
| Belfast | 374 | 403 | 449 | 482 | 472 |
| Northern | 539 | 483 | 444 | 467 | 465 |
| South Eastern | 301 | 302 | 311 | 388 | 383 |
| Southern | 349 | 380 | 417 | 438 | 420 |
| Western | 387 | 431 | 468 | 517 | 479 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,950 | 1,999 | 2,089 | 2,292 | 2,219 |
Source: Delegated Statutory Functions Return.
Note: Figures include kinship foster carers, non-kinship foster carers and professional foster carers. Figures exclude independent foster care providers, providers of specialist placements and kinship foster care households who are in the process of being assessed as kinship carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015625%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329214"}},{"id":"329213","reference":"AQW 15624/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-02","answerBy":"2021-03-18","answered":"2021-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) any plans he has to create, outside Belfast, a mass vaccination centre, such as that planned for the SSE Arena; and (ii) any conversations he has had with Health and Social Care Trusts in relation to this issue.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland there are currently 7 Trust vaccination sites operating. These sites are located at: Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast; Ulster Hospital, Dundonald; South Lakes leisure centre, Craigavon; Seven Towers Leisure Centre, Ballymena; Foyle Arena, Londonderry, Omagh Leisure Centre, Omagh; and Lakeside leisure centre, Enniskillen.\n\nIn addition, approximately 350 pharmacies across Northern Ireland will shortly begin administering vaccinations.\n\nThere are currently no further plans in place to open another mass vaccination centre in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland there are currently 7 Trust vaccination sites operating. These sites are located at: Royal Victoria Hospital, Belfast; Ulster Hospital, Dundonald; South Lakes leisure centre, Craigavon; Seven Towers Leisure Centre, Ballymena; Foyle Arena, Londonderry, Omagh Leisure Centre, Omagh; and Lakeside leisure centre, Enniskillen.
In addition, approximately 350 pharmacies across Northern Ireland will shortly begin administering vaccinations.
There are currently no further plans in place to open another mass vaccination centre in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015624%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329213","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329213"}},{"id":"329212","reference":"AQW 15623/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-02","answerBy":"2021-03-18","answered":"2021-05-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the steps being taken reduce the stigma of mental health issues.","answerText":"The reduction of stigma around mental health is a key action within Protect Life 2, the Suicide Prevention Strategy for Northern Ireland.\n\nA range of training and awareness programmes are being delivered to reduce stigma and increase understanding of mental health and wellbeing. These include:\n\nMindset Adult and Mindset Adolescent Mental health awareness training;\n\nPsychological First Aid;\n\nStress control;\n\nMental Health Fist Aid;\n\nLiving Life to the full;\n\nConnections –Link Life suicide Awareness programme;\n\nHealthy Me;\n\nProvoking thought\n\nDuring 2010 – 2020, around £1 million has been invested in 334 programmes within local communities to encourage them to be pro-active in promoting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing through the promotion of the Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing.\n\nConsiderable promotion and engagement in Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Campaigns have also been delivered including:\n\nMental Health Awareness Week.\n\nA 5 week joint campaign from September to October entitled ‘Working Together for Mental Wellbeing’ Mental Health Campaign.\n\nInput to the Community Pharmacy Living Well Campaign.\n\nSpecific COVID Take 5 messaging resources and toolkits developed and promoted.\n\n‘Mindingyourhead.info’ website containing the new COVID wellbeing hub revamped and updated.\n\nProduction of educational resources such as Help is at Hand, Steps to Stress booklet and self-help guides which are widely disseminated.\n\nDevelopment of the HSCNI Apps Library.","answerHtml":"The reduction of stigma around mental health is a key action within Protect Life 2, the Suicide Prevention Strategy for Northern Ireland.
A range of training and awareness programmes are being delivered to reduce stigma and increase understanding of mental health and wellbeing. These include:
Mindset Adult and Mindset Adolescent Mental health awareness training;
Psychological First Aid;
Stress control;
Mental Health Fist Aid;
Living Life to the full;
Connections –Link Life suicide Awareness programme;
Healthy Me;
Provoking thought
During 2010 – 2020, around £1 million has been invested in 334 programmes within local communities to encourage them to be pro-active in promoting positive mental health and emotional wellbeing through the promotion of the Take 5 Steps to Wellbeing.
Considerable promotion and engagement in Mental Health and Emotional Wellbeing Campaigns have also been delivered including:
Mental Health Awareness Week.
A 5 week joint campaign from September to October entitled ‘Working Together for Mental Wellbeing’ Mental Health Campaign.
Input to the Community Pharmacy Living Well Campaign.
Specific COVID Take 5 messaging resources and toolkits developed and promoted.
‘Mindingyourhead.info’ website containing the new COVID wellbeing hub revamped and updated.
Production of educational resources such as Help is at Hand, Steps to Stress booklet and self-help guides which are widely disseminated.
Development of the HSCNI Apps Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015623%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329212","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329212"}},{"id":"329211","reference":"AQW 15622/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-02","answerBy":"2021-03-18","answered":"2021-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether the £500 special recognition payment will be available for all Health and Social Care Trust staff, or just frontline medical staff; and (ii) to detail the rationale for this decision.","answerText":"An FAQ on the special recognition payment, which includes eligibility criteria, has been published on my Department’s website at the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs\n\nThe payment is available to all HSC staff, not just those on the frontline.","answerHtml":"An FAQ on the special recognition payment, which includes eligibility criteria, has been published on my Department’s website at the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
The payment is available to all HSC staff, not just those on the frontline.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015622%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=329211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=329211"}},{"id":"328994","reference":"AQW 15544/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-01","answerBy":"2021-03-16","answered":"2021-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of wet pubs that have permanently closed since 23 March 2020, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Under liquor licensing legislation, there is no differentiation between pubs which serve food and those that don’t. Currently all pubs are required to close under COVID restrictions. My Department does not hold any information on those that may have permanently closed and is not aware of any organisation that does hold this information.","answerHtml":"Under liquor licensing legislation, there is no differentiation between pubs which serve food and those that don’t. Currently all pubs are required to close under COVID restrictions. My Department does not hold any information on those that may have permanently closed and is not aware of any organisation that does hold this information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015544%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328994"}},{"id":"328993","reference":"AQW 15543/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-01","answerBy":"2021-03-16","answered":"2021-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the amount of extra funding that would be required to provide lifeline financial assistance to those businesses, the self-employed and sole-traders who have so far been ineligible for any of the COVID-19 grants and support schemes.","answerText":"My Department has delivered more than £390million of much needed financial support to businesses across all sectors and of all sizes since April 2020, and through a range of recent schemes, is delivering millions of pounds to thousands more.\n\nIn addition to the previous and ongoing UK Government initiatives, such as the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), a number of the packages have been designed with a view to supporting self-employed business people and sole traders.\n\nIt is not possible to provide the information that the member has requested.","answerHtml":"My Department has delivered more than £390million of much needed financial support to businesses across all sectors and of all sizes since April 2020, and through a range of recent schemes, is delivering millions of pounds to thousands more.
In addition to the previous and ongoing UK Government initiatives, such as the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS), a number of the packages have been designed with a view to supporting self-employed business people and sole traders.
It is not possible to provide the information that the member has requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015543%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328993"}},{"id":"328992","reference":"AQW 15542/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-01","answerBy":"2021-03-16","answered":"2021-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 14251/17-22, (i) whether it would be possible for the £500 COVID-19 Disruption Payment for students to be distributed via Student Finance NI; and (ii) to detail the comparable payment schemes that exist for Northern Irish students studying in universities in England, Wales and Scotland.","answerText":"Student Finance NI is the collective, public-facing name for the student finance system operated by my Department, the Education Authority, and the Student Loans Company (SLC). Of these three organisations, only the SLC is able to issue payments to students. As I advised in my answer to AQW 14251/17-22, the Department does not have the legal power to make payments through public bodies outside of Northern Ireland, including through the SLC.\n\nInformation regarding the most recently announced funding for student hardship in England, Scotland and Wales can be found at the following links:\n\nEngland: Further additional funding of £50 million for student hardship for financial year 2020-21 - Office for Students\n\nScotland: Extra hardship payments for students - Coronavirus (studentinformation.gov.scot)\n\nWales: https://gov.wales/40-million-extra-support-students-facing-financial-hardship","answerHtml":"Student Finance NI is the collective, public-facing name for the student finance system operated by my Department, the Education Authority, and the Student Loans Company (SLC). Of these three organisations, only the SLC is able to issue payments to students. As I advised in my answer to AQW 14251/17-22, the Department does not have the legal power to make payments through public bodies outside of Northern Ireland, including through the SLC.
Information regarding the most recently announced funding for student hardship in England, Scotland and Wales can be found at the following links:
England: Further additional funding of £50 million for student hardship for financial year 2020-21 - Office for Students
Scotland: Extra hardship payments for students - Coronavirus (studentinformation.gov.scot)
Wales: https://gov.wales/40-million-extra-support-students-facing-financial-hardship
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015542%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328992"}},{"id":"328991","reference":"AQW 15541/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-01","answerBy":"2021-03-16","answered":"2021-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for an update on (i) steps being taken to create a veterinary school within the Ulster University Coleraine campus; and (ii) any conversations he has had with the relevant stakeholders.","answerText":"While there is an increasing acceptance that Northern Ireland requires a more assured supply of graduate veterinarians, especially for its agri-food industry, than is available from historical sources, there are a number of options for achieving this that merit further exploration.\n\nFollowing my earlier invitation, Minister Gordon Lyons met with the Vice-Chancellors of the Ulster University and the Queen’s University Belfast, and agreed with them to commission an independent analysis of the various options for better assuring the supply of veterinarians, including various models for the delivery of third level veterinary education, in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"While there is an increasing acceptance that Northern Ireland requires a more assured supply of graduate veterinarians, especially for its agri-food industry, than is available from historical sources, there are a number of options for achieving this that merit further exploration.
Following my earlier invitation, Minister Gordon Lyons met with the Vice-Chancellors of the Ulster University and the Queen’s University Belfast, and agreed with them to commission an independent analysis of the various options for better assuring the supply of veterinarians, including various models for the delivery of third level veterinary education, in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015541%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328991"}},{"id":"328990","reference":"AQW 15540/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-03-01","answerBy":"2021-03-16","answered":"2021-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update of her assessment of the Growth Deal for the Causeway Coast and Glens region.","answerText":"I very much welcome the progress being made in regards to the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal. The planned investment by the UK Government and the Executive of over £70m presents a tremendous platform for the Council and its partners to drive sustained and inclusive growth across the Council area. My Department is meeting regularly with Council officials and I am advised that the Council is currently assessing and prioritising potential projects for proposed inclusion in the Deal. I look forward to receiving those proposals.","answerHtml":"I very much welcome the progress being made in regards to the Causeway Coast and Glens Growth Deal. The planned investment by the UK Government and the Executive of over £70m presents a tremendous platform for the Council and its partners to drive sustained and inclusive growth across the Council area. My Department is meeting regularly with Council officials and I am advised that the Council is currently assessing and prioritising potential projects for proposed inclusion in the Deal. I look forward to receiving those proposals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015540%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328990"}},{"id":"328711","reference":"AQW 15460/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-26","answerBy":"2021-03-15","answered":"2021-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on (i) steps being taken to create a veterinary School within Ulster University's Coleraine campus; and (ii) whether she has had any conversations with the relevant stakeholders.","answerText":"While my Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, Ulster University is an autonomous institution and as such is responsible for its own decisions regarding the subjects it teaches. The creation of a Veterinary School at Coleraine campus is a matter for the University to consider.\n\nThe supply of veterinary surgeons in Northern Ireland is a policy objective for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). From my Department’s perspective, should a need be determined to establish a Veterinary School, it may be for DAERA to both argue the case and secure any required additional funding. I met with the Vice Chancellor of the University, Paul Bartholomew on 3rd February 2021 to discuss the University’s strategic plans for all of its campuses and requested sight of same.","answerHtml":"While my Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, Ulster University is an autonomous institution and as such is responsible for its own decisions regarding the subjects it teaches. The creation of a Veterinary School at Coleraine campus is a matter for the University to consider.
The supply of veterinary surgeons in Northern Ireland is a policy objective for the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA). From my Department’s perspective, should a need be determined to establish a Veterinary School, it may be for DAERA to both argue the case and secure any required additional funding. I met with the Vice Chancellor of the University, Paul Bartholomew on 3rd February 2021 to discuss the University’s strategic plans for all of its campuses and requested sight of same.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015460%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328711"}},{"id":"328710","reference":"AQW 15459/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-26","answerBy":"2021-03-15","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given the disrupted learning of the previous year, to detail any plans he has to allow children with special educational needs to repeat a year of school if parents request it.","answerText":"In order to address any loss of face-to-face learning, there have been many interventions put in place across the system.\n\nThere is no concrete evidence base that would suggest it would be in the best educational interests of all children to repeat the educational year in a wholesale type approach. It should be noted that some evidence would suggest that repeating the school year could have a negative effect for pupils. However, it may be the right thing to do for some individual children.\n\nThere is already a process in place that can enable a child to repeat the year and that decision is taken with those who know the child best. That is done with the principal of the school, the board of governors ultimately would make the decision in conjunction with the parents. If the child has a SEN statement, it would be done in co-operation with the EA as well.","answerHtml":"In order to address any loss of face-to-face learning, there have been many interventions put in place across the system.
There is no concrete evidence base that would suggest it would be in the best educational interests of all children to repeat the educational year in a wholesale type approach. It should be noted that some evidence would suggest that repeating the school year could have a negative effect for pupils. However, it may be the right thing to do for some individual children.
There is already a process in place that can enable a child to repeat the year and that decision is taken with those who know the child best. That is done with the principal of the school, the board of governors ultimately would make the decision in conjunction with the parents. If the child has a SEN statement, it would be done in co-operation with the EA as well.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015459%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328710"}},{"id":"328709","reference":"AQW 15458/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-26","answerBy":"2021-03-15","answered":"2021-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for their assessment of the efficacy of current travel rules; (ii) whether they are strong and clear enough for people to adhere to them; and (iii) to detail their plans to increase enforcement measures.","answerText":"The Department for Health is the lead on travel guidance in relation to Covid 19.\n\nThe Executive will keep our travel arrangements and advice under review as we move through the Pathway and throughout our recovery phase. Travel and tourism remain very important to our economy. Since 24 May, travel within the Common Travel Area (CTA) is permitted.\n\nDetailed guidance on travel can be found on NI Direct:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travelling-within-common-travel-area\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice","answerHtml":"The Department for Health is the lead on travel guidance in relation to Covid 19.
The Executive will keep our travel arrangements and advice under review as we move through the Pathway and throughout our recovery phase. Travel and tourism remain very important to our economy. Since 24 May, travel within the Common Travel Area (CTA) is permitted.
Detailed guidance on travel can be found on NI Direct:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travelling-within-common-travel-area
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015458%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328709"}},{"id":"328708","reference":"AQW 15457/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-26","answerBy":"2021-03-15","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the efficacy of current travel rules; (ii) whether they are strong and clear enough for people to adhere to them; and (iii) to detail his plans to increase enforcement measures.","answerText":"Current travel restrictions have been developed to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland. Those restrictions are continually under review, particularly in respect of international travel and the risk posed by variants of concern. Since their introduction in June 2020, the international travel regulations have been amended frequently and I will continue to do so where amendment is required to address emerging issues.\n\nGuidance on the restrictions is kept up-to-date on NI Direct.","answerHtml":"Current travel restrictions have been developed to prevent the further spread of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland. Those restrictions are continually under review, particularly in respect of international travel and the risk posed by variants of concern. Since their introduction in June 2020, the international travel regulations have been amended frequently and I will continue to do so where amendment is required to address emerging issues.
Guidance on the restrictions is kept up-to-date on NI Direct.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015457%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328708"}},{"id":"328707","reference":"AQW 15456/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-26","answerBy":"2021-03-15","answered":"2021-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the various price brackets for the renewal of driving licences; (ii) the prices of any additional mandatory tests that are required for certain drivers, for instance, eye and other medical tests; and (iii) the equivalent costs for drivers in (a) England; (b) Wales; and (c) Scotland.","answerText":"Renewal of a Northern Ireland Group 1 driving licence (a licence to drive cars and motorcycles) is charged at £30 where the applicant is aged less than 70 years at the time of application. Where the applicant is aged 70 years or more, or where the licence is restricted in duration due to a medical condition, a renewal licence is issued free of charge.\n\nRenewal of Group 2 licences (licences to drive goods vehicles and passenger-carrying vehicles) costs £20.\n\nThe Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not require Group 1 applicants to undertake medical or eyesight tests when making renewal applications. All applicants are required to confirm, by way of self-declaration, that they meet the relevant standards of fitness to drive.\n\nGroup 2 licence holders must undergo medical assessment at each renewal from age 45 years. The licence applicant’s GP will normally be the doctor completing the medical assessment report. The fees charged by the doctors are outside the remit of DVA.\n\nIn GB, Group 1 renewal licences are charged at £14 when renewed online or £17 when renewed by post. Renewal licences are issued free of charge for applicants aged 70 years or more, or where the licence has been restricted for medical reasons. Group 2 licences are issued free of charge. The same medical assessment regime exists in GB as it does in NI.","answerHtml":"Renewal of a Northern Ireland Group 1 driving licence (a licence to drive cars and motorcycles) is charged at £30 where the applicant is aged less than 70 years at the time of application. Where the applicant is aged 70 years or more, or where the licence is restricted in duration due to a medical condition, a renewal licence is issued free of charge.
Renewal of Group 2 licences (licences to drive goods vehicles and passenger-carrying vehicles) costs £20.
The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) does not require Group 1 applicants to undertake medical or eyesight tests when making renewal applications. All applicants are required to confirm, by way of self-declaration, that they meet the relevant standards of fitness to drive.
Group 2 licence holders must undergo medical assessment at each renewal from age 45 years. The licence applicant’s GP will normally be the doctor completing the medical assessment report. The fees charged by the doctors are outside the remit of DVA.
In GB, Group 1 renewal licences are charged at £14 when renewed online or £17 when renewed by post. Renewal licences are issued free of charge for applicants aged 70 years or more, or where the licence has been restricted for medical reasons. Group 2 licences are issued free of charge. The same medical assessment regime exists in GB as it does in NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015456%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328707"}},{"id":"328523","reference":"AQW 15398/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-25","answerBy":"2021-03-12","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the number of foodbanks in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Assembly Research and Information Service has compiled an interactive map to assist in locating active foodbanks which can be accessed through this link:\n\nhttp://www.niassembly.gov.uk/assembly-business/research-and-information-service-raise/data-visualisations/foodbank-distribution-in-northern-ireland/","answerHtml":"The Assembly Research and Information Service has compiled an interactive map to assist in locating active foodbanks which can be accessed through this link:
http://www.niassembly.gov.uk/assembly-business/research-and-information-service-raise/data-visualisations/foodbank-distribution-in-northern-ireland/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015398%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328523","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328523"}},{"id":"328522","reference":"AQW 15397/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-25","answerBy":"2021-03-12","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the future impact on (i) patients; and (ii) the NHS, of the reduction in the number of people able to be seen by dentists under current regulations.","answerText":"Over the last year, the pandemic has resulted in fewer patients/clients being seen, when compared to the previous year, for almost all parts of the health and social care system. The impact on dental care, whether that is provided by family dentists, community dentists or dentist working in hospitals has been dramatic. Currently, dental activity among family dentists is around 40% of that seen prior to the pandemic.\n\nThis reduction in patient throughput has meant that dentists have had to focus on those patients with the highest levels of clinical need. The prioritisation process has worked well and the vast majority of those patients with urgent dental care needs have been seen in a timely way. However, there are large numbers of patients with lower grade dental problems who have not been seen. It is important that practitioners turn their attention to these patients and to those requiring routine care once those with urgent needs have received the care they need.\n\nThe Department's Financial Support Scheme (FSS) for general dental practitioners has been designed to ensure that dentists are delivering as much dental care as they are safely able to provide. In addition to the FSS, I have recently approved £1.5 million for a general dental practice grant scheme to allow dentists to purchase equipment or make changes to their practices that would allow greater numbers of patients to be seen.\n\nAmong the impacts on the health service of the current infection control measures has been an increase in waiting lists for hospital dental care. However, one of the silver linings of the pandemic has been increased cooperation between different dental teams and the development of innovative approaches to care. There are a number of ongoing dental projects looking at alternative patient pathways and new types of treatment that will help patients on waiting lists to be seen quicker than they would be with the standard approaches.\n\nI trust that the above is helpful.","answerHtml":"Over the last year, the pandemic has resulted in fewer patients/clients being seen, when compared to the previous year, for almost all parts of the health and social care system. The impact on dental care, whether that is provided by family dentists, community dentists or dentist working in hospitals has been dramatic. Currently, dental activity among family dentists is around 40% of that seen prior to the pandemic.
This reduction in patient throughput has meant that dentists have had to focus on those patients with the highest levels of clinical need. The prioritisation process has worked well and the vast majority of those patients with urgent dental care needs have been seen in a timely way. However, there are large numbers of patients with lower grade dental problems who have not been seen. It is important that practitioners turn their attention to these patients and to those requiring routine care once those with urgent needs have received the care they need.
The Department's Financial Support Scheme (FSS) for general dental practitioners has been designed to ensure that dentists are delivering as much dental care as they are safely able to provide. In addition to the FSS, I have recently approved £1.5 million for a general dental practice grant scheme to allow dentists to purchase equipment or make changes to their practices that would allow greater numbers of patients to be seen.
Among the impacts on the health service of the current infection control measures has been an increase in waiting lists for hospital dental care. However, one of the silver linings of the pandemic has been increased cooperation between different dental teams and the development of innovative approaches to care. There are a number of ongoing dental projects looking at alternative patient pathways and new types of treatment that will help patients on waiting lists to be seen quicker than they would be with the standard approaches.
I trust that the above is helpful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015397%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328522"}},{"id":"328521","reference":"AQW 15396/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-25","answerBy":"2021-03-12","answered":"2021-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to (i) bring Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the UK and fund new and advanced personal protective equipment for dentists; and (ii) reduce the surgery fallow time of 10-30 minutes between patients after each Aerosol Generating Procedure.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland general dental practitioners have to date received over £3.7 million to cover the increased costs associated with enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE). Practice owners use this funding to purchase their preferred PPE from dental supply houses who also provide them with a wide range of non-PPE dental consumables. There is a wide variety of PPE available and not all types and styles are suitable for all practitioners. The ability of practitioners to select specific makes and models of masks in particular is viewed as an advantage of the Northern Ireland arrangements. The Health and Social Care Board regularly monitors the availability and cost of commercially available PPE and, in general, over the last six months availability has improved and costs have come down.\n\nIn late June 2020, I provided £1 million worth of funding for the Business Services Organisation (BSO) to source and distribute PPE to dental practices. At the time the BSO could not source the very large quantities of level II PPE required by dental practices and while the situation has improved to some extent, it remains challenging for the BSO to procure significant quantities of level II PPE over and above that required by the Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nThe distribution of PPE to dental practices in 2020 was a logistically complex exercise with deliveries taking several weeks to complete. Additionally, the cost of delivering the PEE was significant and not all practitioners were happy with the specific items that were provided. Surprisingly, practices sourcing their own PPE are able to do so at very competitive prices, sometimes lower than those attainable by BSO.\n\nIn relation to the fallow time, Northern Ireland follows the same expert guidance as the rest of the UK. This is applied consistently across primary care and secondary care settings as well as by health service and private care providers. The current approach to the fallow time has been endorsed by the Northern Ireland General Dental Services Re-establishment Group, which is made up of representatives from the Department of Health, the Health and Social Care Board and the British Dental Association. The national representative groups for dental nurses, dental hygienists and dental therapists all support the current approach to the fallow time.\n\nThe single most important determinant in the duration of the fallow time is surgery ventilation. Accordingly, I have recently approved a £1.5 million grant scheme for dental practices to improve practice ventilation and undertake other measures which will lead to increased patient throughput.\n\nI trust that the above is useful.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland general dental practitioners have to date received over £3.7 million to cover the increased costs associated with enhanced personal protective equipment (PPE). Practice owners use this funding to purchase their preferred PPE from dental supply houses who also provide them with a wide range of non-PPE dental consumables. There is a wide variety of PPE available and not all types and styles are suitable for all practitioners. The ability of practitioners to select specific makes and models of masks in particular is viewed as an advantage of the Northern Ireland arrangements. The Health and Social Care Board regularly monitors the availability and cost of commercially available PPE and, in general, over the last six months availability has improved and costs have come down.
In late June 2020, I provided £1 million worth of funding for the Business Services Organisation (BSO) to source and distribute PPE to dental practices. At the time the BSO could not source the very large quantities of level II PPE required by dental practices and while the situation has improved to some extent, it remains challenging for the BSO to procure significant quantities of level II PPE over and above that required by the Health and Social Care Trusts.
The distribution of PPE to dental practices in 2020 was a logistically complex exercise with deliveries taking several weeks to complete. Additionally, the cost of delivering the PEE was significant and not all practitioners were happy with the specific items that were provided. Surprisingly, practices sourcing their own PPE are able to do so at very competitive prices, sometimes lower than those attainable by BSO.
In relation to the fallow time, Northern Ireland follows the same expert guidance as the rest of the UK. This is applied consistently across primary care and secondary care settings as well as by health service and private care providers. The current approach to the fallow time has been endorsed by the Northern Ireland General Dental Services Re-establishment Group, which is made up of representatives from the Department of Health, the Health and Social Care Board and the British Dental Association. The national representative groups for dental nurses, dental hygienists and dental therapists all support the current approach to the fallow time.
The single most important determinant in the duration of the fallow time is surgery ventilation. Accordingly, I have recently approved a £1.5 million grant scheme for dental practices to improve practice ventilation and undertake other measures which will lead to increased patient throughput.
I trust that the above is useful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015396%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328521","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328521"}},{"id":"328520","reference":"AQW 15395/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-25","answerBy":"2021-03-12","answered":"2021-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the top-up funding being made available for dentists in 2021/22; (ii) his plans for ensuring the security and sustainability of Health Service dental treatment in the next financial year, and long-term; and (iii) the number of dentist surgeries offering Health Service dental treatment for each of the last three years.","answerText":"To support the sustainability of practices throughout the pandemic the Department established the General Dental Services (GDS) Financial Support Scheme (FSS), which provides an additional payment to eligible General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) each month based on the average gross (including patient contribution) monthly Item Of Service (IoS) payments received by a GDP in 2019-20. There has been approximately £47m FSS payments made since April 2020.\n\nThe FSS has been continued until the end of June 2021 and support beyond June remains under consideration.\n\nThe number of general dental practices offering a Health Service treatment is published by the Business Service Organisation on an annual basis. Tables 1.2 and 1.3 in the Annual Dental Statistical tables provide the requested information and are available via the following link:\n\nhttp://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/services/3173.htm.","answerHtml":"To support the sustainability of practices throughout the pandemic the Department established the General Dental Services (GDS) Financial Support Scheme (FSS), which provides an additional payment to eligible General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) each month based on the average gross (including patient contribution) monthly Item Of Service (IoS) payments received by a GDP in 2019-20. There has been approximately £47m FSS payments made since April 2020.
The FSS has been continued until the end of June 2021 and support beyond June remains under consideration.
The number of general dental practices offering a Health Service treatment is published by the Business Service Organisation on an annual basis. Tables 1.2 and 1.3 in the Annual Dental Statistical tables provide the requested information and are available via the following link:
http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/services/3173.htm.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015395%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328520"}},{"id":"328519","reference":"AQW 15394/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-25","answerBy":"2021-03-12","answered":"2021-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on (i) the development and implementation of the Mental Health Action Plan as part of New Decade, New Approach; and (ii) the figures for those seeking help for mental health issues for the last three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Mental Health Action Plan was published on 19 May 2020. The majority of actions are progressing on schedule or slightly behind it. Covid-19 related pressures in the Department, Health and Social Care Board and Trusts has had an impact on the ability to deliver all to schedule. A key part of the Action Plan is to prepare for a new Mental Health Strategy. The public consultation of the Strategy closed on 26 March and I am hoping to publish the final Strategy in summer 2021.\n\nThe adult mental health referral figures, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust, are provided below for the last 3 years. Please note that 2020/21 figures are up to the end of December 2020. The figures include referrals from all sources with the exception of Dementia and Psychiatry of Old Age.\n\nTrust\t2018/19\t2019/20\t2020/21\nBelfast\t29,533\t19,325\t8,300\nNorthern\t10,484\t10,586\t6,186\nSouthern\t11,073\t10,883\t5,268\nSouth Eastern\t12,454\t14,745\t10,660\nWestern\t14,674\t13,562\t5,714","answerHtml":"The Mental Health Action Plan was published on 19 May 2020. The majority of actions are progressing on schedule or slightly behind it. Covid-19 related pressures in the Department, Health and Social Care Board and Trusts has had an impact on the ability to deliver all to schedule. A key part of the Action Plan is to prepare for a new Mental Health Strategy. The public consultation of the Strategy closed on 26 March and I am hoping to publish the final Strategy in summer 2021.
The adult mental health referral figures, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust, are provided below for the last 3 years. Please note that 2020/21 figures are up to the end of December 2020. The figures include referrals from all sources with the exception of Dementia and Psychiatry of Old Age.
| Trust | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 |
| Belfast | 29,533 | 19,325 | 8,300 |
| Northern | 10,484 | 10,586 | 6,186 |
| Southern | 11,073 | 10,883 | 5,268 |
| South Eastern | 12,454 | 14,745 | 10,660 |
| Western | 14,674 | 13,562 | 5,714 |
The draft budget presents very significant challenges for the Executive and across departments with a constrained Spending Review outcome.
The public consultation on the draft Budget closed on Thursday 25 February 2021. No decisions on allocations of the final 2021-22 Budget have yet been made by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201713%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=330030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=330030"}},{"id":"328314","reference":"AQW 15318/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-24","answerBy":"2021-03-11","answered":"2021-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the current number of children requiring foster care, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust, for each of the last five years; and (ii) what extra steps have been taken to ensure fostering has been facilitated during the COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown.","answerText":"My department publishes the number of children in foster care in the annual publication “Children’s Social Care Statistics for Northern Ireland”, and sets out the yearly trend figures, broken down by HSC Trusts, in the separate document “Table 3.6 – Children in Care by Placement Type”.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/childrens-social-care-statistics-northern-ireland-201920\n\nFigures relating to year 2019/20 are the latest published figures.\n\nAdditional support of £1.39million has been provided to foster carer since the start of the pandemic. This provided for two 12 week periods of a 20% uplift in the food and household elements of the fostering allowance per child. In addition, at the start of the pandemic, each foster care household received a payment of £100 from the relevant HSC Trust to purchase educational and play material to assist with keeping children occupied whilst at home.\n\nSchools have continued to remain open and provide supervised learning for vulnerable children, which includes those in foster care.\n\nElectronic equipment was also provided to foster families to assist with both remote learning and supervised learning in schools. Further assistance with equipment is available via the HSC Trusts from the Education Authority.\n\nFoster carers have also been offered Covid-19 vaccinations in the early stages of the programme.","answerHtml":"My department publishes the number of children in foster care in the annual publication “Children’s Social Care Statistics for Northern Ireland”, and sets out the yearly trend figures, broken down by HSC Trusts, in the separate document “Table 3.6 – Children in Care by Placement Type”.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/childrens-social-care-statistics-northern-ireland-201920
Figures relating to year 2019/20 are the latest published figures.
Additional support of £1.39million has been provided to foster carer since the start of the pandemic. This provided for two 12 week periods of a 20% uplift in the food and household elements of the fostering allowance per child. In addition, at the start of the pandemic, each foster care household received a payment of £100 from the relevant HSC Trust to purchase educational and play material to assist with keeping children occupied whilst at home.
Schools have continued to remain open and provide supervised learning for vulnerable children, which includes those in foster care.
Electronic equipment was also provided to foster families to assist with both remote learning and supervised learning in schools. Further assistance with equipment is available via the HSC Trusts from the Education Authority.
Foster carers have also been offered Covid-19 vaccinations in the early stages of the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015318%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328314","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328314"}},{"id":"328313","reference":"AQW 15317/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-24","answerBy":"2021-03-11","answered":"2021-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail her plans to provide a £500 COVID-19 recognition payment to those working in the community and voluntary sectors.","answerText":"I refer you to AQW 15311/17-22","answerHtml":"I refer you to AQW 15311/17-22
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015317%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328313","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328313"}},{"id":"328312","reference":"AQW 15316/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-24","answerBy":"2021-03-11","answered":"2021-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail her plans for support packages to furloughed workers when the current furlough scheme ends on 30 April 2021.","answerText":"The Chancellor has recently announced an extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention (Furlough) Scheme until the end of September 2021.\n\nThis scheme, along with other initiatives introduced by the UK Government and the Executive, has provided invaluable support to all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland during this unprecedented time.\n\nDiane Dodds","answerHtml":"The Chancellor has recently announced an extension to the Coronavirus Job Retention (Furlough) Scheme until the end of September 2021.
This scheme, along with other initiatives introduced by the UK Government and the Executive, has provided invaluable support to all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland during this unprecedented time.
Diane Dodds
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015316%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328312","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328312"}},{"id":"328311","reference":"AQW 15315/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-24","answerBy":"2021-03-11","answered":"2021-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail his plans for support packages to furloughed workers when the current furlough scheme ends on 30 April 2021.","answerText":"The furlough is a Treasury scheme and the Chancellor announced in the 2021/22 Budget that it is being extended until the end of September.\n\nWhile this is welcome, my Department has raised concerns with Treasury that asking employers, who may not be fully operational, to find the cash for wage contributions that will increase significantly from July, could lead to redundancies.","answerHtml":"The furlough is a Treasury scheme and the Chancellor announced in the 2021/22 Budget that it is being extended until the end of September.
While this is welcome, my Department has raised concerns with Treasury that asking employers, who may not be fully operational, to find the cash for wage contributions that will increase significantly from July, could lead to redundancies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015315%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328311"}},{"id":"328310","reference":"AQW 15314/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-24","answerBy":"2021-03-11","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) his plans to extend the Income Support Scheme for Substitute Teachers beyond 7 March 2021, given only minimal work will be available for substitute teachers due to only pre-school and classes P1 to P3 attending from 8 March 2021; and (ii) whether the decision by the Westminster Government to fully open all schools from 8 March will affect the funding available for the continuation of the scheme.","answerText":"I have agreed to a phased reopening of schools in March. As well as teaching each of the returning year groups, schools will be providing a mixture of face-to-face teaching, remote learning and supervised learning for vulnerable and key workers’ children and it is likely that demand for substitute teachers will increase.\n\nThe Substitute Teachers’ Income Support Scheme 2021 was initially announced to cover the period to 12 February, and was extended to 7 March 2021. I have also approved a further extension of the scheme to 31 March 2021.\n\nThe decision by the Westminster Government to fully open all schools from 8 March will not affect the funding available for the continuation of the scheme.","answerHtml":"I have agreed to a phased reopening of schools in March. As well as teaching each of the returning year groups, schools will be providing a mixture of face-to-face teaching, remote learning and supervised learning for vulnerable and key workers’ children and it is likely that demand for substitute teachers will increase.
The Substitute Teachers’ Income Support Scheme 2021 was initially announced to cover the period to 12 February, and was extended to 7 March 2021. I have also approved a further extension of the scheme to 31 March 2021.
The decision by the Westminster Government to fully open all schools from 8 March will not affect the funding available for the continuation of the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015314%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=328310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=328310"}},{"id":"327916","reference":"AQW 15228/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on her work to temporarily or periodically reduce the speed limits to 20mph outside those schools previously identified as being considered for a speed limit change to improve pupil safety; and (ii) to detail those schools in East Londonderry which are being considered for a speed limit change.","answerText":"I am pleased to report that the legislation authorising new part-time speed limits outside 104 schools across Northern Ireland came into effect on 4 March 2021. Work is currently underway to erect new signage at each of the schools identified and the first are expected to become operational within the next few weeks. Schools benefiting from new part-time speed limits in your constituency are: Carnalridge PS, Portrush; St Canice’s PS, Feeny; Drumrane PS, Dungiven; St. Patricks & St Joseph’s PS, Garvagh; and St Matthew’s PS Drumsurn.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to report that the legislation authorising new part-time speed limits outside 104 schools across Northern Ireland came into effect on 4 March 2021. Work is currently underway to erect new signage at each of the schools identified and the first are expected to become operational within the next few weeks. Schools benefiting from new part-time speed limits in your constituency are: Carnalridge PS, Portrush; St Canice’s PS, Feeny; Drumrane PS, Dungiven; St. Patricks & St Joseph’s PS, Garvagh; and St Matthew’s PS Drumsurn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015228%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327916","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327916"}},{"id":"327915","reference":"AQW 15227/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) their plans for releasing a comprehensive road map out of lockdown, with dates, similar to that released by the Westminster Government; (ii) any concerns they have regarding the absence of such a plan for a single part of the UK; and (iii) the communications policy they will employ to clarify the differences in approach from the Executive, relative to that of the Westminster Government.","answerText":"The Executive published its Pathway out of Restrictions document on 2 March 2021.\n\nThe document is available at: https://www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/execoffice/executives-pathway-out-of-restrictions.pdf\n\nThe Executive takes decisions on easing restrictions in consideration of the local public health context and the communications approach reflects this. The Executive’s high profile public information campaign has evolved in line with our pathway out of restrictions and continues to run across multiple platforms.","answerHtml":"The Executive published its Pathway out of Restrictions document on 2 March 2021.
The document is available at: https://www.executiveoffice-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/execoffice/executives-pathway-out-of-restrictions.pdf
The Executive takes decisions on easing restrictions in consideration of the local public health context and the communications approach reflects this. The Executive’s high profile public information campaign has evolved in line with our pathway out of restrictions and continues to run across multiple platforms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015227%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327915","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327915"}},{"id":"327914","reference":"AQW 15226/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on her plans for an economic recovery as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"On 25th February I published my Economic Recovery Action Plan which sets out a range of decisive actions to kick-start economic recovery as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nThe plan provides a pathway to deliver on the strategic aims set out in ‘Rebuilding a Stronger Economy’, which I published in June 2021. The Recovery Action Plan is available at: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/economy/dfe-economic-recovery-action-plan.pdf","answerHtml":"On 25th February I published my Economic Recovery Action Plan which sets out a range of decisive actions to kick-start economic recovery as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
The plan provides a pathway to deliver on the strategic aims set out in ‘Rebuilding a Stronger Economy’, which I published in June 2021. The Recovery Action Plan is available at: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/economy/dfe-economic-recovery-action-plan.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015226%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327914","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327914"}},{"id":"327913","reference":"AQW 15225/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for their assessment of the current timetable for children returning to school; (ii) for their assessment of schools fully reopening as part of a broader social and economic recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic; and (iii) what conversations they have had with the Minister of Health regarding this issue and the wider issue of the health-led reopening of schools and business.","answerText":"As of 12 April all primary and post primary pupils returned to face to face teaching.\n\nThe return of pupils in a safe manner to full-time face-to-face learning was a key priority for the Executive.\n\nThe Minister for Education published a statement on 1 April on the return of all pupils to school which is available at: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/all-pupils-return-school-after-easter-break","answerHtml":"As of 12 April all primary and post primary pupils returned to face to face teaching.
The return of pupils in a safe manner to full-time face-to-face learning was a key priority for the Executive.
The Minister for Education published a statement on 1 April on the return of all pupils to school which is available at: https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/all-pupils-return-school-after-easter-break
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015225%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327913","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327913"}},{"id":"327912","reference":"AQW 15224/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-23","answerBy":"2021-03-10","answered":"2021-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on any work her Department is involved with in relation to combatting the rising incidence of gun crime in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.","answerText":"Gun crime should be a particular concern for us all. These crimes are frequently linked to drugs, intimidation, and community control and can be perpetrated by organised criminal gangs, including paramilitary organisations. They cause serious harm to individuals and communities and we should, collectively, be using all the resources available to us to bring them to an end.\n\nI will write to the Chief Constable to ask for his assessment of the situation and to provide an update on his strategy and approach with a view to engaging other agencies, where appropriate, to work together to address the harm caused by this activity.","answerHtml":"Gun crime should be a particular concern for us all. These crimes are frequently linked to drugs, intimidation, and community control and can be perpetrated by organised criminal gangs, including paramilitary organisations. They cause serious harm to individuals and communities and we should, collectively, be using all the resources available to us to bring them to an end.
I will write to the Chief Constable to ask for his assessment of the situation and to provide an update on his strategy and approach with a view to engaging other agencies, where appropriate, to work together to address the harm caused by this activity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015224%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327912","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327912"}},{"id":"327594","reference":"AQW 15131/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-22","answerBy":"2021-03-09","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how the independence, particularly religious independence, of the members of the Education Review Panel will be assured; (ii) whether members from non-religious, humanist or non-Christian backgrounds will be included; and (iii) what steps he is taking to ensure the panel is made up of people from a diverse range of backgrounds.","answerText":"Panel members will be appointed on merit and will be expected to operate with objectivity and integrity. The work of the panel and its final report will be based on evidence, informed by stakeholder engagement and analysis of relevant information and best practice.\n\nAppointments will be based on merit following an open recruitment process. The appointed Panel will be expected to engage with a wide range of stakeholders during its delivery of the Review.\n\nThe five person panel will be appointed via an open recruitment process to ensure a wide range of candidates. The recruitment opportunity has been published on the DE website, advertised in local newspapers and published on Government websites for public appointments in Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. To encourage applications from under-represented groups, organisations from the Department’s section 75 list that are connected to under-represented groups have been specifically notified of the opportunity. DE is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds regardless of religious belief, gender, disability, ethnic origin, political opinion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or whether or not they have dependents.","answerHtml":"Panel members will be appointed on merit and will be expected to operate with objectivity and integrity. The work of the panel and its final report will be based on evidence, informed by stakeholder engagement and analysis of relevant information and best practice.
Appointments will be based on merit following an open recruitment process. The appointed Panel will be expected to engage with a wide range of stakeholders during its delivery of the Review.
The five person panel will be appointed via an open recruitment process to ensure a wide range of candidates. The recruitment opportunity has been published on the DE website, advertised in local newspapers and published on Government websites for public appointments in Northern Ireland, Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. To encourage applications from under-represented groups, organisations from the Department’s section 75 list that are connected to under-represented groups have been specifically notified of the opportunity. DE is committed to equality of opportunity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds regardless of religious belief, gender, disability, ethnic origin, political opinion, age, marital status, sexual orientation, or whether or not they have dependents.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015131%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327594"}},{"id":"327593","reference":"AQW 15130/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-22","answerBy":"2021-03-09","answered":"2021-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) diagnoses in each of the last three years; and (ii) what mechanisms are in place to diagnose and treat PTSD.","answerText":"Information on the number of PTSD diagnoses in the last three years is unavailable. Health and Social Care information systems do not currently collect any data in relation to PTSD diagnoses.\n\nServices for individuals with a potential diagnosis of PTSD are offered by both existing services (Community Mental Health Teams and Psychological Therapy Services) and the newly established Regional Trauma Service which has a team of therapists in each Trust.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of PTSD diagnoses in the last three years is unavailable. Health and Social Care information systems do not currently collect any data in relation to PTSD diagnoses.
Services for individuals with a potential diagnosis of PTSD are offered by both existing services (Community Mental Health Teams and Psychological Therapy Services) and the newly established Regional Trauma Service which has a team of therapists in each Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015130%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327593"}},{"id":"327592","reference":"AQW 15129/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-22","answerBy":"2021-03-09","answered":"2021-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the criteria and scientific rationale for businesses to remain open to the public for (i) normal, in-store shopping; and (ii) click and collect shopping.","answerText":"On 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed that from 30 April all retail businesses were permitted to reopen. Any businesses that are permitted to reopen are subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.\n\nOn 2 March 2021 the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.\n\nThis responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.\n\nThe Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.\n\nScientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence","answerHtml":"On 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed that from 30 April all retail businesses were permitted to reopen. Any businesses that are permitted to reopen are subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.
On 2 March 2021 the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.
This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
The Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.
Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015129%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327592"}},{"id":"327591","reference":"AQW 15128/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-22","answerBy":"2021-03-09","answered":"2021-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the rationale for keeping garden centres closed; (ii) the rationale of keeping smaller, independent garden centres closed, even for click and collect services, while larger multinational stores selling similar products are able to remain fully open; and (iii) what conversations he has had with the Department for the Economy regarding this issue.","answerText":"On 1 April 2021 the Executive agreed a range of relaxations which came into effect on 12 April including the reopening of Garden Centres and Plant Nurseries. As with other businesses, they were subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.\n\nOn 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed that from 30 April all retail businesses were permitted to reopen.\n\nOn 2 March 2021 the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.\n\nThis responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.","answerHtml":"On 1 April 2021 the Executive agreed a range of relaxations which came into effect on 12 April including the reopening of Garden Centres and Plant Nurseries. As with other businesses, they were subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.
On 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed that from 30 April all retail businesses were permitted to reopen.
On 2 March 2021 the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.
This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015128%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327591"}},{"id":"327590","reference":"AQW 15127/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-22","answerBy":"2021-03-09","answered":"2021-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the legal status of live music performances; (ii) the current rules and guidance on music performances; and (iii) the current financial support available for self-employed musicians.","answerText":"This is not within the remit of my Department. This is for the Department for Health to answer.","answerHtml":"This is not within the remit of my Department. This is for the Department for Health to answer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015127%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327590","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327590"}},{"id":"327377","reference":"AQW 15042/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-19","answerBy":"2021-03-08","answered":"2021-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessement of whether the update provided by the Chief Planning Officer on 16 December 2020 represents a fundamental change in planning policy regarding Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) development; (ii) to detail her Department’s consultation process regarding this change in policy; (iii) how this new policy compares with policy in the Republic of Ireland and other regions of the United Kingdom; (iv) whether she has any concerns of Northern Ireland divergence given the all-island strategy for electricity; and (v) to detail the number of BESS development applications submitted to local government and called in by her Department in each of the last ten years.","answerText":"The Chief Planners Update no. 7 is not a legislative or policy change and is instead provided as clarification from my Department. The Update provides advice to councils and the wider planning system on the proper interpretation of planning legislation, namely the phrase ‘electricity generating station’. Since the advice did not constitute either a new legislative provision or new policy, it was not considered that public consultation was necessary.\n\nIn relation to the approaches in the GB and ROI for BESS planning applications, there are broad similarities across the various legislative provisions. However, there are some differences between the respective planning systems and applicable thresholds, which is to be expected given the differences between the jurisdictions.\n\nUnfortunately at present there is not an all island strategy for electricity generation. I am not aware of any schemes called in by my Department for BESS developments.","answerHtml":"The Chief Planners Update no. 7 is not a legislative or policy change and is instead provided as clarification from my Department. The Update provides advice to councils and the wider planning system on the proper interpretation of planning legislation, namely the phrase ‘electricity generating station’. Since the advice did not constitute either a new legislative provision or new policy, it was not considered that public consultation was necessary.
In relation to the approaches in the GB and ROI for BESS planning applications, there are broad similarities across the various legislative provisions. However, there are some differences between the respective planning systems and applicable thresholds, which is to be expected given the differences between the jurisdictions.
Unfortunately at present there is not an all island strategy for electricity generation. I am not aware of any schemes called in by my Department for BESS developments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015042%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327377","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327377"}},{"id":"327376","reference":"AQW 15041/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-19","answerBy":"2021-03-08","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of the Department for Infrastructure (DfI) decision to change policy regarding Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) development; (ii) how new DfI policy regarding BESS development will impact the all-island electricity strategy, given that DfI diverges from similar policy in the Republic of Ireland; (iii) whether there has been any disadvantage for Northern Ireland since this change; and (iv) whether she or any official within her Department engaged with industry regarding this change.","answerText":"I had been made aware of inconsistencies around the grant of planning permission for BESS projects and my officials had liaised with Department for Infrastructure (DfI), which has lead responsibility on planning, to consider this. I understand the clarification offered by the Chief Planner does not represent a change of policy but, rather, puts BESS projects throughout the UK on the same footing in terms of planning definitions. Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland do not share an all island strategy for electricity generation, therefore each jurisdiction is free to adopt its own procedures for consenting BESS projects. My Department had no engagement with industry on this matter prior to the issue of DfI’s planning update.","answerHtml":"I had been made aware of inconsistencies around the grant of planning permission for BESS projects and my officials had liaised with Department for Infrastructure (DfI), which has lead responsibility on planning, to consider this. I understand the clarification offered by the Chief Planner does not represent a change of policy but, rather, puts BESS projects throughout the UK on the same footing in terms of planning definitions. Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland do not share an all island strategy for electricity generation, therefore each jurisdiction is free to adopt its own procedures for consenting BESS projects. My Department had no engagement with industry on this matter prior to the issue of DfI’s planning update.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015041%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327376","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327376"}},{"id":"327374","reference":"AQW 15039/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-19","answerBy":"2021-03-08","answered":"2021-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the scientific rationale behind limiting the delivery of hot food to 11:00pm, as per the current regulations.","answerText":"When the restrictions were reintroduced from 26 December 2020, restaurant takeaways and deliveries were not permitted as a necessary and proportionate response to the pandemic by limiting the hours that businesses were allowed to operate.\n\nAll relaxations were to be introduced gradually to minimise the risk to public health and, if necessary, could be quickly reversed.\n\nOn 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed a range of relaxations which came into effect on 30 April, including the ending of the curfew on restaurant and takeaway food deliveries. As with other businesses, they were subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.\n\nThe Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19.\n\nIt is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.\n\nScientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence\n\nOn 2 March 2021 the Executive ‘Moving Forward: The Executive's Pathway Out of Restrictions’. The pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.\n\nThis responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.","answerHtml":"When the restrictions were reintroduced from 26 December 2020, restaurant takeaways and deliveries were not permitted as a necessary and proportionate response to the pandemic by limiting the hours that businesses were allowed to operate.
All relaxations were to be introduced gradually to minimise the risk to public health and, if necessary, could be quickly reversed.
On 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed a range of relaxations which came into effect on 30 April, including the ending of the curfew on restaurant and takeaway food deliveries. As with other businesses, they were subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.
The Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19.
It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.
Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence
On 2 March 2021 the Executive ‘Moving Forward: The Executive's Pathway Out of Restrictions’. The pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.
This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015039%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327374","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327374"}},{"id":"327373","reference":"AQW 15038/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-19","answerBy":"2021-03-08","answered":"2021-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of second homes in the East Londonderry constituency; (ii) the same figures for the last five years; and (iii) her assessment of the effect of higher numbers of second homes in an area on homelessness and local and social housing provision.","answerText":"Data is not available on the number of second homes at constituency level either for this year or over the last five years. I am aware that some areas are likely to have a higher prevalence of second homes and that this may then impact on the housing available for full time residency.\n\nMy Department does not have responsibility for private housing but I recognise that housing is an integrated system. My programme of work therefore encompasses the development of a Housing Supply Strategy that seeks to identify and address those whole system issues which impact on supply across all tenures.","answerHtml":"Data is not available on the number of second homes at constituency level either for this year or over the last five years. I am aware that some areas are likely to have a higher prevalence of second homes and that this may then impact on the housing available for full time residency.
My Department does not have responsibility for private housing but I recognise that housing is an integrated system. My programme of work therefore encompasses the development of a Housing Supply Strategy that seeks to identify and address those whole system issues which impact on supply across all tenures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2015038%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327373","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327373"}},{"id":"327228","reference":"AQW 14959/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) her plans to include micro-businesses with a turnover less than £500,000 in the micro-business support fund; (ii) what consideration she has given to using an alternative measure of a business’s eligibility for micro-business support, as opposed to turnover; and (iii) the criteria used to judge whether a business is a micro-business.","answerText":"The Business and Financial Planning Grant scheme was open to Northern Ireland micro, small or medium sized businesses (large companies were not eligible) that met the following criteria:\n\nHad a turnover of at least £500,000 in one of the three most recent financial years, prior to 31 December 2019.\n\nExperienced a reduction in turnover in excess of 40% as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nOperating in the manufacturing, construction, professional services, information and communication, or science and technology sectors. Existing Invest NI customers were also eligible to apply.\n\nThe scheme closed to new applications on 30 November 2020 and there are no plans to deliver a second phase of the scheme. There are therefore no plans to review the eligibility criteria.","answerHtml":"The Business and Financial Planning Grant scheme was open to Northern Ireland micro, small or medium sized businesses (large companies were not eligible) that met the following criteria:
Had a turnover of at least £500,000 in one of the three most recent financial years, prior to 31 December 2019.
Experienced a reduction in turnover in excess of 40% as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Operating in the manufacturing, construction, professional services, information and communication, or science and technology sectors. Existing Invest NI customers were also eligible to apply.
The scheme closed to new applications on 30 November 2020 and there are no plans to deliver a second phase of the scheme. There are therefore no plans to review the eligibility criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014959%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327228"}},{"id":"327227","reference":"AQW 14958/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the powers, budget and responsibilities of her Department for the provision of electric vehicle charge points; (ii) her assessment of the current provision of electric vehicle charge points, including rapid-charge points, with particular reference to current and anticipated future need; (iii) what discussions she has had with the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) in relation to fixing the broken charge points and the installation of more AC and rapid charging points throughout Northern Ireland; and (iv) any funding provided by her Department to ESB during the current mandate.","answerText":"The electric vehicle charge point infrastructure is operated on a commercial basis. Responsibility for the operation, maintenance and development of the public charge point network transferred to the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) with effect from 30 July 2015. My Department has no budget for the provision of electric vehicle charge points, however, we do maintain an interest in ensuring the network is up to standard and working effectively.\n\nThere are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in the North. My officials are currently considering the future requirements in terms of public charge point infrastructure and will continue to liaise with ESB to consider any specific requests to ensure the public network can meet the needs of EV owners now and in future. Officials continue to engage with OZEV regarding funding for “Project Rapid” and we are awaiting confirmation as to whether it applies in the North at this time, and/or if it is allocated via the Barnett Consequential.\n\nMy officials have also had regular discussions with local councils in relation to the need for more efficient and easily accessible electric vehicle charge points, including more recently with regard to the On-Street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). My officials have also been engaging with the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the scheme, with reference to councils in the North. The EST held a workshop with local councils in Northern Ireland about the scheme in Autumn last year.\n\nMy Department has recently been engaging with ESB on its plans to replace approximately 70 charge points i.e. 35 charge posts, to upgrade and improve the reliability of the existing public network. In addition, I am making changes to the planning system, through permitted development rights, to make it easier to expand the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.\n\nI have also been able to support the EU INTERREG VA Funded FASTER electric vehicle network project. The project is to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 March 2023. The responsibility for the delivery of projects sits with the project partners, and more specifically the lead partner, which have agreed a timeline for delivery with the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). I am pleased to be able to inform you that my Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project.\n\nAs set out above, the electric vehicle charge point infrastructure is operated on a commercial basis and my Department has no budget for the provision of electric vehicle charge points. My department has, therefore, not provided any funding to the commercial company ESB during the current mandate.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in Great Britain and in the North are provided by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).","answerHtml":"The electric vehicle charge point infrastructure is operated on a commercial basis. Responsibility for the operation, maintenance and development of the public charge point network transferred to the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) with effect from 30 July 2015. My Department has no budget for the provision of electric vehicle charge points, however, we do maintain an interest in ensuring the network is up to standard and working effectively.
There are currently 320 22kWh (Fast) charge points at 160 locations and a further 17 50kWh DC (Rapid) public charge points in the North. My officials are currently considering the future requirements in terms of public charge point infrastructure and will continue to liaise with ESB to consider any specific requests to ensure the public network can meet the needs of EV owners now and in future. Officials continue to engage with OZEV regarding funding for “Project Rapid” and we are awaiting confirmation as to whether it applies in the North at this time, and/or if it is allocated via the Barnett Consequential.
My officials have also had regular discussions with local councils in relation to the need for more efficient and easily accessible electric vehicle charge points, including more recently with regard to the On-Street Residential Charge Point Scheme (ORCS). My officials have also been engaging with the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV) and with the Energy Saving Trust (EST), who administer the scheme, with reference to councils in the North. The EST held a workshop with local councils in Northern Ireland about the scheme in Autumn last year.
My Department has recently been engaging with ESB on its plans to replace approximately 70 charge points i.e. 35 charge posts, to upgrade and improve the reliability of the existing public network. In addition, I am making changes to the planning system, through permitted development rights, to make it easier to expand the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles.
I have also been able to support the EU INTERREG VA Funded FASTER electric vehicle network project. The project is to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 March 2023. The responsibility for the delivery of projects sits with the project partners, and more specifically the lead partner, which have agreed a timeline for delivery with the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB). I am pleased to be able to inform you that my Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project.
As set out above, the electric vehicle charge point infrastructure is operated on a commercial basis and my Department has no budget for the provision of electric vehicle charge points. My department has, therefore, not provided any funding to the commercial company ESB during the current mandate.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in Great Britain and in the North are provided by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014958%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327227","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327227"}},{"id":"327226","reference":"AQW 14957/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 14331/17-22, (i) why Land and Property Services has no powers to recover money mistakenly given out to ineligible businesses as part of the COVID-19 grants system; (ii) what powers his Department has to recover this money; and (iii) to detail the mechanism by which the £1.4 million has so far been returned from ineligible businesses.","answerText":"As advised in the response to AQW 14331/17-22 the legal authority to make payments under the Small Business Support Grant Scheme lies with powers available to the Department of Economy (DfE). DfE are responsible for the policy of this Scheme and the role of my Department and LPS was to act as administrators of the Scheme on behalf of DfE.\n\nA Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was put in place to set out the roles of each party. LPS has no responsibility under this MOU for the recovery of grants that may have been paid in error. As it is not specifically stated in the MOU that LPS is responsible for recovery of grants paid in error, LPS has no authority to do so without the consent of DfE.\n\nIn respect of grants that have been repaid to date, these have been returned on a voluntary basis by businesses who have been made aware either through contact with LPS or general publicity on the scheme that they are not eligible. LPS has provided information to such businesses to instruct them on how they can repay the funds and we have kept a record of monies returned.\n\nLPS has provided DfE with a full list of payments made to ineligible parties. It is my understanding that DfE are communicating with these parties to seek the return of the monies paid.","answerHtml":"As advised in the response to AQW 14331/17-22 the legal authority to make payments under the Small Business Support Grant Scheme lies with powers available to the Department of Economy (DfE). DfE are responsible for the policy of this Scheme and the role of my Department and LPS was to act as administrators of the Scheme on behalf of DfE.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was put in place to set out the roles of each party. LPS has no responsibility under this MOU for the recovery of grants that may have been paid in error. As it is not specifically stated in the MOU that LPS is responsible for recovery of grants paid in error, LPS has no authority to do so without the consent of DfE.
In respect of grants that have been repaid to date, these have been returned on a voluntary basis by businesses who have been made aware either through contact with LPS or general publicity on the scheme that they are not eligible. LPS has provided information to such businesses to instruct them on how they can repay the funds and we have kept a record of monies returned.
LPS has provided DfE with a full list of payments made to ineligible parties. It is my understanding that DfE are communicating with these parties to seek the return of the monies paid.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014957%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327226","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327226"}},{"id":"327225","reference":"AQW 14956/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme; (ii) what plans she has to expedite the programme; and (iii) to detail the conversations she has had with sports clubs in relation to the delay in the programme.","answerText":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is one of the commitments in the “New Decade, New Approach” agreement and as such my Department has been working to refresh and re-engage with the programme to provide a robust evidence base on the challenges, strategic priorities and needs of soccer at all levels.\n\nA range of primary and secondary research tools have been adopted to inform the evidence base. This work is nearing completion and has utilised a club survey along with discussions with key stakeholders including governing bodies of football, Sport NI, councils and Disability Sport NI.\n\nThe analysis of the work to date is informing the shape and scope of the programme going forward.","answerHtml":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is one of the commitments in the “New Decade, New Approach” agreement and as such my Department has been working to refresh and re-engage with the programme to provide a robust evidence base on the challenges, strategic priorities and needs of soccer at all levels.
A range of primary and secondary research tools have been adopted to inform the evidence base. This work is nearing completion and has utilised a club survey along with discussions with key stakeholders including governing bodies of football, Sport NI, councils and Disability Sport NI.
The analysis of the work to date is informing the shape and scope of the programme going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014956%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327225"}},{"id":"327224","reference":"AQW 14955/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-18","answerBy":"2021-03-05","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) the number of people currently on the waiting list for social housing in East Londonderry; and (ii) the same figures for each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has provided the table\n\nDate\tApplicants\tApplicants in Housing Stress\tAllocations to Applicants\nDecember 2020\t2327\t1271\t292\nDecember 2019\t1970\t1159\t267\nDecember 2018\t1888\t1106\t337\nDecember 2017\t1483\t918\t389\nDecember 2016\t1409\t903\t349\nDecember 2015\t1441\t845\t369","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has provided the table
| Date | Applicants | Applicants in Housing Stress | Allocations to Applicants |
| December 2020 | 2327 | 1271 | 292 |
| December 2019 | 1970 | 1159 | 267 |
| December 2018 | 1888 | 1106 | 337 |
| December 2017 | 1483 | 918 | 389 |
| December 2016 | 1409 | 903 | 349 |
| December 2015 | 1441 | 845 | 369 |
The draft Executive budget presents very significant challenges for the Executive and across departments with a constrained Spending Review outcome. All consultation responses will be taken into account in finalising the Budget. No decisions on the final outcome have been made yet.
I hope to be able to fully engage with employers on an updated position regarding the JobStart scheme as soon as the outcome of the budget exercise is known.
Employers can only participate in the JobStart scheme once it has been launched. As no employers have been able to register for the scheme just yet no employers have pulled out.
Young people living here are not eligible for Kickstart.
I am continuing to engage with Executive colleagues and my officials regarding the JobStart scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014864%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327100","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327100"}},{"id":"327099","reference":"AQW 14863/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-17","answerBy":"2021-03-04","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 14165/17-22, to detail the scientific rationale and evidence that has informed the decision to ban outdoor sports where social distancing can be maintained.","answerText":"AQW 14165/17-22 referred to the Department of Health website which details all the Covid-19 related scientific evidence which is provided to the Executive to inform the decisions it takes around the Public Health Restrictions. i.e. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence\n\nOutdoor sports is one element of an overall approach to reduce community transmission in order to protect the health service. By way of example, the summary paper provided by the Department of Health to the Executive in November 2021, set out the impact of community transmission on the ‘R’ rate which would ultimately impact on the healthcare system.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/doh-summary-paper-ni-executive.\n\nFor now the Executive has decided that to continue to suppress the virus it is important that people stay at home, exercise locally and only undertake essential travel.\n\nThe return of sport including outdoor sport will be considered as one of the critical steps in the safe return of sport when the medical and scientific advice indicates that the circumstances are right. That will be a decision which will be taken by the Executive.","answerHtml":"AQW 14165/17-22 referred to the Department of Health website which details all the Covid-19 related scientific evidence which is provided to the Executive to inform the decisions it takes around the Public Health Restrictions. i.e. https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence
Outdoor sports is one element of an overall approach to reduce community transmission in order to protect the health service. By way of example, the summary paper provided by the Department of Health to the Executive in November 2021, set out the impact of community transmission on the ‘R’ rate which would ultimately impact on the healthcare system.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/doh-summary-paper-ni-executive.
For now the Executive has decided that to continue to suppress the virus it is important that people stay at home, exercise locally and only undertake essential travel.
The return of sport including outdoor sport will be considered as one of the critical steps in the safe return of sport when the medical and scientific advice indicates that the circumstances are right. That will be a decision which will be taken by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014863%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327099"}},{"id":"327098","reference":"AQW 14862/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-17","answerBy":"2021-03-04","answered":"2021-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the rationale why some motorists are notified that they are not permitted to drive on an expired MoT certificate if they cannot secure a test before their expiry date, while extending the validity of the tests of others.","answerText":"Since vehicle testing was suspended in late March 2020 due to Covid-19, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has applied Temporary Exemption Certificates (TEC) to all eligible vehicles to ensure that they may continue to be driven legally on the road. From 20 July 2020, MOT testing resumed for priority vehicle groups, including those vehicles not able to avail of TECs. The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test time.\n\nThe DVA is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 of its test centres. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at their preferred test centre, and they may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.\n\nDemand for vehicle testing is high due in part to customers, who do not require a test, booking an appointment. To manage capacity, the DVA is currently identifying and removing these customers from its booking system. It also makes additional vehicle test slots available daily at most centres and further slots may also become available due to cancellations. Customers are able to change existing appointments to a different test centre if a slot becomes available. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday at most test centres, and there will soon be additional testing capacity at the Newbuildings test centre to meet demand in the north-west.\n\nIn light of the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, I recently announced that existing TECs for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied.\n\nNew TECs or extensions to existing TECs will be applied automatically to allow vehicles to be taxed. Customers do not need to do anything until they receive a reminder notification from the DVA to present their vehicle for test.\n\nThe DVA is also identifying those customers who have booked a vehicle test but which now qualify for a TEC. The DVA will remove these test appointments in order to free up more capacity across the network, and offer these tests to those customers whose vehicle test certificate is due to expire.\n\nLike all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA will continue to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.\n\nIt is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.","answerHtml":"Since vehicle testing was suspended in late March 2020 due to Covid-19, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) has applied Temporary Exemption Certificates (TEC) to all eligible vehicles to ensure that they may continue to be driven legally on the road. From 20 July 2020, MOT testing resumed for priority vehicle groups, including those vehicles not able to avail of TECs. The DVA has steadily increased its vehicle testing capacity by adopting a range of measures including the recruitment of additional vehicle examiners, the use of overtime to provide cover for leave and sick absence and a reduction of the vehicle test time.
The DVA is delivering vehicle testing at all 15 of its test centres. While there is sufficient capacity for customers to book a vehicle test appointment, it may not always be possible to book a test at their preferred test centre, and they may have to travel to an alternative centre to secure a test before their current test pass certificate expires.
Demand for vehicle testing is high due in part to customers, who do not require a test, booking an appointment. To manage capacity, the DVA is currently identifying and removing these customers from its booking system. It also makes additional vehicle test slots available daily at most centres and further slots may also become available due to cancellations. Customers are able to change existing appointments to a different test centre if a slot becomes available. The DVA is also offering vehicle test appointments on a Sunday at most test centres, and there will soon be additional testing capacity at the Newbuildings test centre to meet demand in the north-west.
In light of the ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, I recently announced that existing TECs for qualifying vehicles will be extended by a further four months. This applies to private cars, light goods vehicles and motorcycles aged 4-9 years, with TECs which will expire between 26 March 2021 and 25 March 2022. Four year old cars and motorcycles and three year old light goods vehicles due a first time test between the above dates will also have a four month TEC applied.
New TECs or extensions to existing TECs will be applied automatically to allow vehicles to be taxed. Customers do not need to do anything until they receive a reminder notification from the DVA to present their vehicle for test.
The DVA is also identifying those customers who have booked a vehicle test but which now qualify for a TEC. The DVA will remove these test appointments in order to free up more capacity across the network, and offer these tests to those customers whose vehicle test certificate is due to expire.
Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA will continue to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
It is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014862%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327098"}},{"id":"327097","reference":"AQW 14861/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-17","answerBy":"2021-03-04","answered":"2021-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to include key and frontline workers who are members of the NI Social Care Council in the £500 special recognition payment to Health and Social Care Trust staff.","answerText":"The special recognition payment will be paid to staff registered with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council who meet the qualifying criteria. A Frequently Asked Questions section has now been published on my Department’s website at:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs","answerHtml":"The special recognition payment will be paid to staff registered with the Northern Ireland Social Care Council who meet the qualifying criteria. A Frequently Asked Questions section has now been published on my Department’s website at:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=327097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=327097"}},{"id":"326906","reference":"AQW 14781/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-16","answerBy":"2021-03-03","answered":"2021-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the communication policy of his Department as regards countering misinformation about the safety of the COVID-19 vaccines; and (ii) what plans he has for updating and expanding this policy.","answerText":"The member will be aware that every effort is made to ensure the correct and most recent information is available to the public domain.\n\nWithin the Public Health Agency, a Vaccine Communications Plan has been developed. A key objective of this is to monitor and counter vaccine misinformation through the provision of clear and targeted information across the most appropriate channels.\n\nThe Vaccine communications sub group meet weekly.\n\nAt this meeting the group evaluates, reviews and plans messaging relating to key themes (including vaccine misinformation) thereby addressing any emerging issues which may negatively impact the programme roll out.","answerHtml":"The member will be aware that every effort is made to ensure the correct and most recent information is available to the public domain.
Within the Public Health Agency, a Vaccine Communications Plan has been developed. A key objective of this is to monitor and counter vaccine misinformation through the provision of clear and targeted information across the most appropriate channels.
The Vaccine communications sub group meet weekly.
At this meeting the group evaluates, reviews and plans messaging relating to key themes (including vaccine misinformation) thereby addressing any emerging issues which may negatively impact the programme roll out.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014781%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326906","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326906"}},{"id":"326905","reference":"AQW 14780/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-16","answerBy":"2021-03-03","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the budget available in her Department for electric vehicle charging infrastructure; (ii) future investment plans of her Department to expand and improve this area; and (iii) her assessment of the consequences of a lack of investment in this area, including for a net carbon-zero target and encouragement of new electric vehicle users.","answerText":"My Department does not have a budget for EV charge point infrastructure. The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and it is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. The public network is operated on a commercial basis and the market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure.\n\nFunding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in Great Britain and in the North are provided by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). My officials continue to liaise with OZEV and the Department for Transport and I have also written to British Ministers to ascertain what support will be provided to Devolved Administrations in line with the British Government's commitment to end the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2030.\n\nThe British Government has just recently announced that grant funding to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking will continue for 2021/22 and £20 million will be available for local authorities including local councils here in the North.\n\nI have also been able to support the EU INTERREG VA Funded FASTER electric vehicle network project. The project is to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 March 2023. I am pleased to be able to inform you that my Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project.\n\nMy officials are currently considering the future requirements in terms of public charge point infrastructure and will continue to liaise with ESB to consider any specific requests to ensure the public network can meet the needs of EV owners now and in future. Officials continue to engage with OZEV regarding funding for “Project Rapid” and we are awaiting confirmation as to whether it applies in the North at this time, and/or if it is allocated via the Barnett Consequential.\n\nIn respect of the consequences of a lack of investment in this area, including for a net carbon-zero target and encouragement of new electric vehicle users, my Department has been leading a Transport Working Group, set up to inform the transport elements of the Department for the Economy’s Energy Strategy which is currently under development. A number of key areas have been identified for consideration including the electrification of transport. I look forward to considering these proposals to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have a budget for EV charge point infrastructure. The electric vehicle public charge point network is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB) and it is responsible for the operation, maintenance and development of the network. The public network is operated on a commercial basis and the market is also open to other commercial operators who would wish to provide charging infrastructure.
Funding opportunities for the installation of charge point infrastructure in Great Britain and in the North are provided by the Office for Zero Emission Vehicles (OZEV). My officials continue to liaise with OZEV and the Department for Transport and I have also written to British Ministers to ascertain what support will be provided to Devolved Administrations in line with the British Government's commitment to end the sale of petrol and diesel cars by 2030.
The British Government has just recently announced that grant funding to provide charge points for residents without off-street parking will continue for 2021/22 and £20 million will be available for local authorities including local councils here in the North.
I have also been able to support the EU INTERREG VA Funded FASTER electric vehicle network project. The project is to install a total of 73 EV Rapid charging points across the island of Ireland and the West of Scotland by 31 March 2023. I am pleased to be able to inform you that my Department will be contributing €513,945 (£455,371) of Match Funding towards the FASTER project.
My officials are currently considering the future requirements in terms of public charge point infrastructure and will continue to liaise with ESB to consider any specific requests to ensure the public network can meet the needs of EV owners now and in future. Officials continue to engage with OZEV regarding funding for “Project Rapid” and we are awaiting confirmation as to whether it applies in the North at this time, and/or if it is allocated via the Barnett Consequential.
In respect of the consequences of a lack of investment in this area, including for a net carbon-zero target and encouragement of new electric vehicle users, my Department has been leading a Transport Working Group, set up to inform the transport elements of the Department for the Economy’s Energy Strategy which is currently under development. A number of key areas have been identified for consideration including the electrification of transport. I look forward to considering these proposals to help deliver a change in the way we travel that also helps us to tackle the climate crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014780%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326905","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326905"}},{"id":"326904","reference":"AQW 14779/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-16","answerBy":"2021-03-03","answered":"2021-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the COVID-19 support available for self-employed musicians who have seen their business reduced or ceased as a result of lockdown measures; and (ii) the circumstances under which musicians are able to perform under current COVID-19 guidelines.","answerText":"The Executive and the UK Government have introduced a wide range of support schemes and other financial packages to support businesses, individual and employers across every sector and industry.\n\nThe UK Government introduced the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) for all self-employed individuals who saw their business reduced or ceased due to the introduction of health regulations. Many thousands of people throughout Northern Ireland have availed of this support.\n\nMy Department has also introduced two support schemes for those not eligible for SEISS. The Newly Self-Employed Support Scheme, which closed to new applications on 19 February, and the Limited Company Director’s Support Scheme, which has been extended to 4 March.\n\nSome self-employed musicians may also have been eligible for Part B of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme. This is for businesses in the supply chain of those businesses forced to close of cease trading or reliant upon such a business being open and fully operational in order to trade.\n\nOutside of my Department, The Arts Council of Northern Ireland opened a new funding programme to support artists and performers with grants of up to £5,000 during the COVID-19 crisis. This programme has now closed.\n\nThe health protection regulations are the responsibility of the Department of Health and guidance on what these mean for businesses and individuals are provided on the NI Direct website. The current regulations are in place until 1st April but will be reviewed on 18 March.","answerHtml":"The Executive and the UK Government have introduced a wide range of support schemes and other financial packages to support businesses, individual and employers across every sector and industry.
The UK Government introduced the Self-Employment Income Support Scheme (SEISS) for all self-employed individuals who saw their business reduced or ceased due to the introduction of health regulations. Many thousands of people throughout Northern Ireland have availed of this support.
My Department has also introduced two support schemes for those not eligible for SEISS. The Newly Self-Employed Support Scheme, which closed to new applications on 19 February, and the Limited Company Director’s Support Scheme, which has been extended to 4 March.
Some self-employed musicians may also have been eligible for Part B of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme. This is for businesses in the supply chain of those businesses forced to close of cease trading or reliant upon such a business being open and fully operational in order to trade.
Outside of my Department, The Arts Council of Northern Ireland opened a new funding programme to support artists and performers with grants of up to £5,000 during the COVID-19 crisis. This programme has now closed.
The health protection regulations are the responsibility of the Department of Health and guidance on what these mean for businesses and individuals are provided on the NI Direct website. The current regulations are in place until 1st April but will be reviewed on 18 March.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014779%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326904","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326904"}},{"id":"326902","reference":"AQW 14777/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-16","answerBy":"2021-03-03","answered":"2021-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of pupils who have been diagnosed with dyslexia in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that precise number of school pupils who have been diagnosed with dyslexia, on an annual basis, in Northern Ireland is not available.\n\nFrom the annual school census figures held by the Department, the number of pupils attending primary, post primary and special schools recorded as having Dyslexia over the last five years are as follows:\n\nYear\tNo of pupils recorded as having Dyslexia\n19/20\t9861\n18/19\t10121\n17/18\t9803\n16/17\t9590\n15/16\t9407","answerHtml":"The Education Authority (EA) has advised that precise number of school pupils who have been diagnosed with dyslexia, on an annual basis, in Northern Ireland is not available.
From the annual school census figures held by the Department, the number of pupils attending primary, post primary and special schools recorded as having Dyslexia over the last five years are as follows:
| Year | No of pupils recorded as having Dyslexia |
| 19/20 | 9861 |
| 18/19 | 10121 |
| 17/18 | 9803 |
| 16/17 | 9590 |
| 15/16 | 9407 |
(i) I launched the Newly Self-Employed Support Scheme (NSESS) on 3 December 2020 which is specifically targeted at those individuals who became self-employed during 2019/20 as they were excluded from the UK government’s Self Employed Income Support Scheme. The scheme provides a one-off taxable grant of £3,500 to newly self-employed individuals (sole traders and those in partnerships) that meet the eligible criteria. To date over 1,300 payments have been made totalling £4.7m.
(ii) Travel agents, tour guides, tutors and auction room staff are able to apply for the scheme should they meet the eligibility criteria.
(iii) I appreciate that there remain self-employed individuals impacted by the limits on the NSESS and SEISS, including those who became self-employed in 2018/19 or before. However, there is a £10 million funding envelope for the scheme and the eligibility criteria was designed within this funding envelope. Extending the scheme beyond the current eligibility criteria would have a significant financial impact and would be a decision for the Executive to make collectively.
Whilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for specific targeted support, it is simply not possible to design and fund schemes for every type of business or employment across our society, However, I along with my Executive colleagues continue to consider all options to provide support to as wide a range of businesses as possible during this pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014670%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326704"}},{"id":"326703","reference":"AQW 14669/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the legal issues delaying the disposal of (a) Causeway School in Bushmills; and (b) Portrush YC and adjacent Out Centre; and (ii) the expected time period these will take to resolve.","answerText":"Causeway School in Bushmills\n\nThis property is held under the terms of a Lease dated 1st August 1928, the contractual term of this lease runs for a term of 99 years and is due to expire on 1st April 2026. The identity of the Landlord changed with the Landlord’s interest being taken over by the National Trust. The National Trust has submitted a significant dilapidations claim, which is currently under consideration by the EA Solicitors and EA Officers. A Quantity Surveyor has been assigned to assess this and discussions are ongoing with the National Trust in the hope that agreement can be reached between EA and the National Trust as to the terms under which the National Trust will accept an early surrender of the lease. It is hoped that agreement will be reached in the incoming financial year.\n\nPortrush YC and adjacent Out Centre\n\nThe site was used as a Youth Centre and Technical College. There are title difficulties involved with the disposal of the property. The site is held under two separate plots, one by way of conveyance and the other by way of lease. The EA is preparing a Business Case for buying out of the restrictive covenants under the terms of the lease. Once completed it is anticipated that a joint disposal in conjunction with NRC will complete in 2022.","answerHtml":"Causeway School in Bushmills
This property is held under the terms of a Lease dated 1st August 1928, the contractual term of this lease runs for a term of 99 years and is due to expire on 1st April 2026. The identity of the Landlord changed with the Landlord’s interest being taken over by the National Trust. The National Trust has submitted a significant dilapidations claim, which is currently under consideration by the EA Solicitors and EA Officers. A Quantity Surveyor has been assigned to assess this and discussions are ongoing with the National Trust in the hope that agreement can be reached between EA and the National Trust as to the terms under which the National Trust will accept an early surrender of the lease. It is hoped that agreement will be reached in the incoming financial year.
Portrush YC and adjacent Out Centre
The site was used as a Youth Centre and Technical College. There are title difficulties involved with the disposal of the property. The site is held under two separate plots, one by way of conveyance and the other by way of lease. The EA is preparing a Business Case for buying out of the restrictive covenants under the terms of the lease. Once completed it is anticipated that a joint disposal in conjunction with NRC will complete in 2022.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014669%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326703","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326703"}},{"id":"326702","reference":"AQW 14668/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 13705/17-22, (i) whether the needs of pupils in special schools differ greatly from those of pupils in special units attached to mainstream schools; (ii) for his assessment of the differing provision of education being provided to pupils in these two different settings; and (iii) for his assessment of whether this could have an impact on their development.","answerText":"In the majority, the needs of pupils in special schools differ from those of pupils in specialist classes attached to mainstream schools.\n\nChildren and young people attending a special school, in the most part, present with very significant intellectual or cognitive impairments and will additionally have other complexities of need which may include medical or behavioural barriers. These children and young people require extremely high pupil to staff ratios and are likely to need a high degree of support from medical teams and/or allied health professionals.\n\nThose children and young people who are enrolled in specialist classes attached to mainstream schools have been assessed as needing a small group setting with fewer pupils and a higher level of adult support, and which also allows for opportunities for individualised teaching. Such settings allow a child or young person to participate within the wider school community, where they are able to do so, and subsequently, where appropriate, gradually reintegrate into a mainstream setting as barriers to learning are addressed.\n\nThere exists a continuum of provision to meet a continuum of need. Children are placed in the most appropriate setting to meet their assessed needs with the consent of those who have parental responsibility.","answerHtml":"In the majority, the needs of pupils in special schools differ from those of pupils in specialist classes attached to mainstream schools.
Children and young people attending a special school, in the most part, present with very significant intellectual or cognitive impairments and will additionally have other complexities of need which may include medical or behavioural barriers. These children and young people require extremely high pupil to staff ratios and are likely to need a high degree of support from medical teams and/or allied health professionals.
Those children and young people who are enrolled in specialist classes attached to mainstream schools have been assessed as needing a small group setting with fewer pupils and a higher level of adult support, and which also allows for opportunities for individualised teaching. Such settings allow a child or young person to participate within the wider school community, where they are able to do so, and subsequently, where appropriate, gradually reintegrate into a mainstream setting as barriers to learning are addressed.
There exists a continuum of provision to meet a continuum of need. Children are placed in the most appropriate setting to meet their assessed needs with the consent of those who have parental responsibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014668%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326702","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326702"}},{"id":"326701","reference":"AQW 14667/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the number of students from Northern Ireland studying for veterinary qualifications at universities in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"The latest information available regarding student enrolments is for 2018/19. Information on students from Northern Ireland enrolled at universities in Great Britain is available on the Department for the Economy website at the link below:\n\nhttps://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/enrolments-uk-higher-education-institutions-northern-ireland-analysis-201819\n\nMy Department does not hold information regarding enrolments at institutions in the Republic of Ireland. However, you can find the requested information on the Irish Higher Education Authority’s website at the following link:\n\nhttps://hea.ie/statistics/data-for-download-and-visualisations/enrolments/enrolments-detailed-5yeartrend-dashboard/","answerHtml":"The latest information available regarding student enrolments is for 2018/19. Information on students from Northern Ireland enrolled at universities in Great Britain is available on the Department for the Economy website at the link below:
https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/enrolments-uk-higher-education-institutions-northern-ireland-analysis-201819
My Department does not hold information regarding enrolments at institutions in the Republic of Ireland. However, you can find the requested information on the Irish Higher Education Authority’s website at the following link:
https://hea.ie/statistics/data-for-download-and-visualisations/enrolments/enrolments-detailed-5yeartrend-dashboard/
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014667%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326701","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326701"}},{"id":"326700","reference":"AQW 14666/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-15","answerBy":"2021-03-02","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update of the Sub-Regional Stadia programme, to include (i) the reasons for the delay in its implementation; (ii) the amount of money so far given out by the programme; (iii) the anticipated timeline for the programme; and (iv) the breakdown of funding already agreed.","answerText":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is one of the commitments in the “New Decade, New Approach” agreement and as such my Department has been working to update the evidence base for the programme given the passage of time since the original consultation.\n\nA range of primary and secondary research tools have been adopted to inform the updated evidence base. This work is nearing completion and has utilised a club survey along with discussions with key stakeholders including governing bodies of football, Sport NI, councils and Disability Sport NI. The analysis stage has begun and will inform the shape and scope of the programme going forward including the timeline for delivery.\n\nThe budget for the programme remains at £36.2m subject to affordability. No capital expenditure has been incurred and no allocations have been agreed.","answerHtml":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is one of the commitments in the “New Decade, New Approach” agreement and as such my Department has been working to update the evidence base for the programme given the passage of time since the original consultation.
A range of primary and secondary research tools have been adopted to inform the updated evidence base. This work is nearing completion and has utilised a club survey along with discussions with key stakeholders including governing bodies of football, Sport NI, councils and Disability Sport NI. The analysis stage has begun and will inform the shape and scope of the programme going forward including the timeline for delivery.
The budget for the programme remains at £36.2m subject to affordability. No capital expenditure has been incurred and no allocations have been agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014666%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326700","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326700"}},{"id":"326493","reference":"AQW 14568/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-12","answerBy":"2021-03-01","answered":"2021-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether (i) those areas defined by NI Water as having insufficient wastewater capacity; and (ii) those in the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area since 2017, will be prioritised as part of the PC21 Business Programme.","answerText":"The prioritising of PC21 investment by NI Water for new and upgraded wastewater treatment works (WwTW) during a Price Control period, involves an evidence-based approach. NI Water and NIEA have an agreed scoring system to convert the evidence-based assessments into an overall prioritisation that encompasses wastewater treatment works, sewer networks and wastewater pumping stations investment needs. This process aims to maximise the benefit the solution provides to NI Water’s customers and the environment.\n\nIn the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, wastewater system upgrades totalling ca £18 million are prioritised for investment during PC21. The specific areas and infrastructure which have been prioritised are as follows:\n\nKilrea WwTW\n\nAghanloo WwTW\n\nNorth Coast DA Strand Road WwPS\n\nDernaflaw Sewerage\n\nLimavady Catchment Upgrades\n\nLimavady - Bovally WwPS\n\nLimavady UID-Ballyclose St CSO\n\nIn addition, base maintenance investments will also be conducted, throughout the 6-year PC21 period, to maintain the existing wastewater asset base.","answerHtml":"The prioritising of PC21 investment by NI Water for new and upgraded wastewater treatment works (WwTW) during a Price Control period, involves an evidence-based approach. NI Water and NIEA have an agreed scoring system to convert the evidence-based assessments into an overall prioritisation that encompasses wastewater treatment works, sewer networks and wastewater pumping stations investment needs. This process aims to maximise the benefit the solution provides to NI Water’s customers and the environment.
In the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council area, wastewater system upgrades totalling ca £18 million are prioritised for investment during PC21. The specific areas and infrastructure which have been prioritised are as follows:
Kilrea WwTW
Aghanloo WwTW
North Coast DA Strand Road WwPS
Dernaflaw Sewerage
Limavady Catchment Upgrades
Limavady - Bovally WwPS
Limavady UID-Ballyclose St CSO
In addition, base maintenance investments will also be conducted, throughout the 6-year PC21 period, to maintain the existing wastewater asset base.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014568%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326493"}},{"id":"326492","reference":"AQW 14567/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-12","answerBy":"2021-03-01","answered":"2021-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any significant outcomes that have resulted from the 2016 Paramilitary Action Plan; and (ii) how much of the £25 million budget allocated for the action plan has been spent since 2017.","answerText":"My Department has contributed significantly to outcomes derived from the NI Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism Action Plan in a variety of ways including innovative youth work interventions through the Education Authority’s Youth Service which is helping to change the lives of the most vulnerable and hard to reach children and young people. Over 3,000 children and young people have participated in Phase One interventions and over 700 professionals, including youth workers, teachers and police and community workers have engaged in capacity building activities.\n\nIn addition, my Department has received funding for Curriculum materials and support for teachers (led by Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment) and a pilot “Wrap-around” educational support programme in four areas which links to my Department’s work to reduce educational underachievement linked to socio-economic disadvantage.\n\nThe budget for Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme is managed by the Tackling Paramilitarism Team within the Department of Justice. My Department’s budget for 2020/21 is approximately £1.7m and full spend is expected this financial year.","answerHtml":"My Department has contributed significantly to outcomes derived from the NI Executive’s Tackling Paramilitarism Action Plan in a variety of ways including innovative youth work interventions through the Education Authority’s Youth Service which is helping to change the lives of the most vulnerable and hard to reach children and young people. Over 3,000 children and young people have participated in Phase One interventions and over 700 professionals, including youth workers, teachers and police and community workers have engaged in capacity building activities.
In addition, my Department has received funding for Curriculum materials and support for teachers (led by Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment) and a pilot “Wrap-around” educational support programme in four areas which links to my Department’s work to reduce educational underachievement linked to socio-economic disadvantage.
The budget for Tackling Paramilitarism, Criminality and Organised Crime Programme is managed by the Tackling Paramilitarism Team within the Department of Justice. My Department’s budget for 2020/21 is approximately £1.7m and full spend is expected this financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014567%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326492"}},{"id":"326490","reference":"AQW 14565/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-12","answerBy":"2021-03-01","answered":"2021-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what support his Department offers to parents whose economic situation has changed in relation to school transport and bus passes, particularly when their child attends a school that is not the closest of its kind to their family home.","answerText":"The Education Authority has a statutory duty to provide transport assistance to all pupils who meet the eligibility criteria as detailed in DE Circular 1996/41. Transport assistance eligibility is based on two criteria in that pupils must live more than three miles from the school they are attending and have been declined a place in all schools in the same category within three miles of their home (two miles in the case of primary). Home to school transport provision will also be provided free of charge to pupils if they have a transport requirement identified within a statement of special educational needs. Once eligibility has been established, transport assistance will be provided to any school within their chosen category regardless of distance from a pupil’s home or whether it is the closest school in the same category. The Education Authority will continue to provide transport assistance to all eligible pupils regardless of any changes to their parents’ economic situation.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has a statutory duty to provide transport assistance to all pupils who meet the eligibility criteria as detailed in DE Circular 1996/41. Transport assistance eligibility is based on two criteria in that pupils must live more than three miles from the school they are attending and have been declined a place in all schools in the same category within three miles of their home (two miles in the case of primary). Home to school transport provision will also be provided free of charge to pupils if they have a transport requirement identified within a statement of special educational needs. Once eligibility has been established, transport assistance will be provided to any school within their chosen category regardless of distance from a pupil’s home or whether it is the closest school in the same category. The Education Authority will continue to provide transport assistance to all eligible pupils regardless of any changes to their parents’ economic situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014565%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326490"}},{"id":"326489","reference":"AQW 14564/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-12","answerBy":"2021-03-01","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for an update on the Executive action plan on Tackling Paramilitary Activity, Criminality and Organised Crime; (ii) for her assessment of the impact of the absence of a Programme for Government on furthering this plan; and (iii) for her assessment of the rising cases of gun attacks in the East Londonderry area.","answerText":"The Action Plan to Tackle Paramilitary Activity, Criminality, and Organised Crime is a cross Executive initiative, co-ordinated by a Programme Team within my Department.\n\nThe latest Delivery Update Report can be found here:\n\nhttps://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/executive-action-plan-delivery-updates-tackling-paramilitary-activity\n\nThe Programme was subject to a comprehensive review in June 2020, and the review document is accessible online:\n\nhttps://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/tackling-paramilitary-activity-criminality-and-organised-crime-action-plan\n\nThe initial funding period for the Action Plan is due to end on 31st March 2021. The Executive has agreed with my proposal that the Action Plan be extended, in order to build on work to date and ensure that we take a long term, holistic approach to addressing the challenges associated with paramilitarism and organised crime.\n\nI have been impressed with the collaboration which has been fostered under the Action Plan. Departments have taken a collaborative ‘One Team’ approach which involves a cross-Departmental Programme Board, joint problem solving around key issues, and regular information sharing and discussion. The Programme structures associated with the Action Plan have been important in developing this approach. I trust that this co-operation will continue as a new Programme for Government is developed.\n\nI share the Member’s concern about gun attacks in the East Londonderry area. Unfortunately such incidents highlight the need for ongoing efforts to create the conditions in which our society can be free of those who use violence to coerce, control and abuse communities. It is vital that those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice and I would urge anyone with information to pass it to the police or the independent charity Crimestoppers.","answerHtml":"The Action Plan to Tackle Paramilitary Activity, Criminality, and Organised Crime is a cross Executive initiative, co-ordinated by a Programme Team within my Department.
The latest Delivery Update Report can be found here:
https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/executive-action-plan-delivery-updates-tackling-paramilitary-activity
The Programme was subject to a comprehensive review in June 2020, and the review document is accessible online:
https://www.justice-ni.gov.uk/publications/tackling-paramilitary-activity-criminality-and-organised-crime-action-plan
The initial funding period for the Action Plan is due to end on 31st March 2021. The Executive has agreed with my proposal that the Action Plan be extended, in order to build on work to date and ensure that we take a long term, holistic approach to addressing the challenges associated with paramilitarism and organised crime.
I have been impressed with the collaboration which has been fostered under the Action Plan. Departments have taken a collaborative ‘One Team’ approach which involves a cross-Departmental Programme Board, joint problem solving around key issues, and regular information sharing and discussion. The Programme structures associated with the Action Plan have been important in developing this approach. I trust that this co-operation will continue as a new Programme for Government is developed.
I share the Member’s concern about gun attacks in the East Londonderry area. Unfortunately such incidents highlight the need for ongoing efforts to create the conditions in which our society can be free of those who use violence to coerce, control and abuse communities. It is vital that those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice and I would urge anyone with information to pass it to the police or the independent charity Crimestoppers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014564%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326489"}},{"id":"326279","reference":"AQW 14478/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-11","answerBy":"2021-02-26","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in relation to the anticipated JobStart scheme, (i) whether she has (a) consulted business and young people to find out what works and what they want from the scheme; (b) outlined the benefits to employers; (c) ensured young people get paid at least minimum wage; and (d) clarified who pays the young people; and (ii) whether funding to the employer covers the salary.","answerText":"My officials have engaged with the Commissioner for Children and Young People, Princes Trust, Include Youth and representatives from Youth Forum to explain how it is envisaged the JobStart scheme will operate, relay the benefits for young people of taking part and to gather feedback.\n\nThey have also engaged widely with employers and employer representative bodies including the Federation of Small Businesses, Construction Industry Training Board, Chamber of Commerce and Business in the Community. Webinar based engagement has also been made with approximately 170 employers. Officials have also engaged with Councils, Sector Skills Councils and Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nThrough all of this engagement officials have explained how the Scheme has been designed, the benefits for employers and young people of getting involved and have also taken on board suggestions for improvements and made some changes to the scheme following these discussions\n\nThe JobStart scheme will provide funding to employers which covers:\n\n100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours per week for a total of 6 months (or 9 months for a young person who meets additional criteria)\n\nassociated employer National Insurance contributions\n\nemployer minimum automatic enrolment contributions (pension)\n\nThis funding is paid monthly in arrears by my Department to the employer. The payments will commence when my Department has evidence that the young person is enrolled on the employer’s payroll and is being paid through Pay As You Earn (PAYE). Young people are employees of the company while on the Scheme and will be entitled to the same terms and conditions as every other employee during their period of employment. It is the sole responsibility of the employer to pay the employee during their time on the Scheme.\n\nEmployers can consider employing the young person for more than 25 hours per week or at a higher salary but the funding will only cover the first 25 hours at National Minimum Wage level.\n\nThe JobStart scheme is and will continue to be an agile Scheme and the Department is committed to continuously improving it by listening to\n\nfeedback from both employers and young people as the Scheme progresses.","answerHtml":"My officials have engaged with the Commissioner for Children and Young People, Princes Trust, Include Youth and representatives from Youth Forum to explain how it is envisaged the JobStart scheme will operate, relay the benefits for young people of taking part and to gather feedback.
They have also engaged widely with employers and employer representative bodies including the Federation of Small Businesses, Construction Industry Training Board, Chamber of Commerce and Business in the Community. Webinar based engagement has also been made with approximately 170 employers. Officials have also engaged with Councils, Sector Skills Councils and Health and Social Care Trusts.
Through all of this engagement officials have explained how the Scheme has been designed, the benefits for employers and young people of getting involved and have also taken on board suggestions for improvements and made some changes to the scheme following these discussions
The JobStart scheme will provide funding to employers which covers:
100% of the National Minimum Wage for 25 hours per week for a total of 6 months (or 9 months for a young person who meets additional criteria)
associated employer National Insurance contributions
employer minimum automatic enrolment contributions (pension)
This funding is paid monthly in arrears by my Department to the employer. The payments will commence when my Department has evidence that the young person is enrolled on the employer’s payroll and is being paid through Pay As You Earn (PAYE). Young people are employees of the company while on the Scheme and will be entitled to the same terms and conditions as every other employee during their period of employment. It is the sole responsibility of the employer to pay the employee during their time on the Scheme.
Employers can consider employing the young person for more than 25 hours per week or at a higher salary but the funding will only cover the first 25 hours at National Minimum Wage level.
The JobStart scheme is and will continue to be an agile Scheme and the Department is committed to continuously improving it by listening to
feedback from both employers and young people as the Scheme progresses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014478%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326279","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326279"}},{"id":"326278","reference":"AQW 14477/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-11","answerBy":"2021-02-26","answered":"2021-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) to detail the reasons for not including funding allocation for labour market interventions, including the JobStart scheme, in the draft budget for 2021/22; (ii) whether the roll-over of COVID-19 funding from 2020/21 to 2021/22 could have been used for JobStart; and (iii) for his assessment of how the absence of this funding will affect both young people of working age and the wider economy of Northern Ireland.","answerText":"As you know, unfortunately the outcome of the Spending Review represented effectively a flat-lining of our Budget position from 2020-21. This meant that it was not possible to meet all the pressures that Departments had identified for 2021/22. I recognise that this has resulted in a very challenging settlement for all departments, including the Department for Communities.\n\nIn producing a draft Budget, the Executive agreed to retain some Covid funding to allow Departments time to refine their pressures. There will therefore be an opportunity for the Executive to consider any further demands on the funding available when finalising the Budget.\n\nI acknowledge that the ongoing effect of the pandemic is having an impact on the numbers of individuals that the Department for Communities is having to support in dealing with benefit claims, as well as helping people back to work. Proposed allocations to Departments as set out in the draft Budget are currently subject to consultation, which ends on 25 February. Responses will be taken into account before the final budget is agreed by the Executive and the Assembly. I will continue to engage with departments as the Executive moves towards a final Budget position. Once finalised, the Department for Communities may still seek to meet this pressure from within its allocation.","answerHtml":"As you know, unfortunately the outcome of the Spending Review represented effectively a flat-lining of our Budget position from 2020-21. This meant that it was not possible to meet all the pressures that Departments had identified for 2021/22. I recognise that this has resulted in a very challenging settlement for all departments, including the Department for Communities.
In producing a draft Budget, the Executive agreed to retain some Covid funding to allow Departments time to refine their pressures. There will therefore be an opportunity for the Executive to consider any further demands on the funding available when finalising the Budget.
I acknowledge that the ongoing effect of the pandemic is having an impact on the numbers of individuals that the Department for Communities is having to support in dealing with benefit claims, as well as helping people back to work. Proposed allocations to Departments as set out in the draft Budget are currently subject to consultation, which ends on 25 February. Responses will be taken into account before the final budget is agreed by the Executive and the Assembly. I will continue to engage with departments as the Executive moves towards a final Budget position. Once finalised, the Department for Communities may still seek to meet this pressure from within its allocation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014477%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326278"}},{"id":"326277","reference":"AQW 14476/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-11","answerBy":"2021-02-26","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the expected timeframe for the implementation of the 25 recommendations made by the Rural Needs Working Group; and (ii) any planned initiatives that may directly affect people living in rural areas of East Londonderry.","answerText":"My Department has already implemented a number of the recommendations made by the Working Group established to Review the Implementation of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016. Progress on implementation is set out in Annex A. My Department is working to implement the remaining recommendations over the coming months although it recognises that Covid-19 restrictions may have an impact on delivering some of the recommendations.\n\nIn relation to those recommendations made by the Rural Needs Working Group which are applicable to other public authorities, the Department has written to each public authority requesting that it implements the recommendations.\n\nIn relation to initiatives in rural areas of East Londonderry, DAERA's ongoing Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme supports a range of initiatives which benefit all rural communities across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department has already implemented a number of the recommendations made by the Working Group established to Review the Implementation of the Rural Needs Act (NI) 2016. Progress on implementation is set out in Annex A. My Department is working to implement the remaining recommendations over the coming months although it recognises that Covid-19 restrictions may have an impact on delivering some of the recommendations.
In relation to those recommendations made by the Rural Needs Working Group which are applicable to other public authorities, the Department has written to each public authority requesting that it implements the recommendations.
In relation to initiatives in rural areas of East Londonderry, DAERA's ongoing Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Programme supports a range of initiatives which benefit all rural communities across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014476%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326277"}},{"id":"326276","reference":"AQW 14475/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-11","answerBy":"2021-02-26","answered":"2021-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the plans and associated costs for future renovation works on HMP Magilligan over the next five years.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) is committed to investing in the maintenance of our prisons and has identified four priority areas for the next five years.\n\nWork on the Outline Business Case 1 for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Prison (as detailed in the NIPS Estates Strategy published in December 2018) is at an advanced stage and will be submitted no later than spring 2021. Delivery of the project by the target date of December 2027 is dependent on the provision of capital funding, which will be considered as part of wider Executive budget discussions. The estimated costs for the project are £109m. The majority of the work to upgrade Magilligan’s Incoming Power Supply will be completed by summer 2021, at an estimated total cost of £4.3 million.\n\nNIPS will continue with its rolling Minor Works and Infrastructure projects to support NIPS strategic aims in terms of providing a therapeutic environment for Rehabilitation and Resettlement Programmes. New schemes that are planned over the coming 5 years include a programme of new replacement boiler house installations, an upgraded incoming electrical power supply, new digital CCTV systems, replacement fence alarms, an upgraded phone network, a new replacement fire mains a new Stores building together with the progression of a range of small works projects that are identified for delivery within the annual minor works programme.\n\nAs an organisation NIPS has also focussed on sustainability as a priority and will continue to roll out its programme of upgrades to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. This includes the provision of a new site wide Building Energy Management System at Magilligan and the provision of the upgrade of the supporting infrastructure.\n\nFinally, focusing on digitalisation, NIPS plans to further develop the Prisoner Portal system that places a PC in every cell, and provides a digital application to allow inmates to be responsible for managing their own requests. It is intended to implement this technology across all three establishments, including Magilligan.\n\nSubject to funding the annual level of investment for minor works projects over the coming 5 years is planned at around £3.0 - 4.0 million per annum.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Prison Service (NIPS) is committed to investing in the maintenance of our prisons and has identified four priority areas for the next five years.
Work on the Outline Business Case 1 for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Prison (as detailed in the NIPS Estates Strategy published in December 2018) is at an advanced stage and will be submitted no later than spring 2021. Delivery of the project by the target date of December 2027 is dependent on the provision of capital funding, which will be considered as part of wider Executive budget discussions. The estimated costs for the project are £109m. The majority of the work to upgrade Magilligan’s Incoming Power Supply will be completed by summer 2021, at an estimated total cost of £4.3 million.
NIPS will continue with its rolling Minor Works and Infrastructure projects to support NIPS strategic aims in terms of providing a therapeutic environment for Rehabilitation and Resettlement Programmes. New schemes that are planned over the coming 5 years include a programme of new replacement boiler house installations, an upgraded incoming electrical power supply, new digital CCTV systems, replacement fence alarms, an upgraded phone network, a new replacement fire mains a new Stores building together with the progression of a range of small works projects that are identified for delivery within the annual minor works programme.
As an organisation NIPS has also focussed on sustainability as a priority and will continue to roll out its programme of upgrades to improve energy efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. This includes the provision of a new site wide Building Energy Management System at Magilligan and the provision of the upgrade of the supporting infrastructure.
Finally, focusing on digitalisation, NIPS plans to further develop the Prisoner Portal system that places a PC in every cell, and provides a digital application to allow inmates to be responsible for managing their own requests. It is intended to implement this technology across all three establishments, including Magilligan.
Subject to funding the annual level of investment for minor works projects over the coming 5 years is planned at around £3.0 - 4.0 million per annum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014475%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326276"}},{"id":"326275","reference":"AQW 14474/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-11","answerBy":"2021-02-26","answered":"2021-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) how many prisoners have tested positive for COVID-19 since 2 November 2020; and (ii) the measures in place for protecting other prisoners and prison staff from contracting the virus.","answerText":"The care of the people who work in and live in our prisons is of paramount importance and is taken very seriously by my Department.\n\nSince 2 November 2020, 9 prisoners In Northern Ireland have tested positive for COVID-19. Of those individuals who tested positive, 4 were in committal quarantine, 2 were in general population and 3 were inpatients in outside hospital.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Prison Service was quick to respond to threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and introduced a range of measures to minimise the risk of transmission of the virus within our prisons. These measures include:\n\nWorking continually with our healthcare provider, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board to develop joint procedures re testing, isolation, cleaning, PPE, contact tracing against latest health guidance;\n\nRestriction of access to our prisons to essential staff;\n\nSuspension of in person domestic and legal visits, which balanced by the introduction of virtual visits service wide;\n\nSuspension of Accompanied and Unaccompanied Temporary Release;\n\nShielding arrangements for those prisoners identified as at greater risk by Healthcare in Prisons;\n\nQuarantine, isolation and testing arrangements for new committals and prisoners who become symptomatic;\n\nSelf-isolation for staff and testing arrangements for staff and household members;\n\nPrisons also has extensive arrangements in place for the supply and appropriate use of personal protective equipment and for handwashing;\n\nAll of this work has been supported by regular communication about the risks of infection and how these can be mitigated. Advice about handwashing, ‘catch it, kill it, bin it’ and social distancing is widely displayed and reinforced at establishment level and service wide;\n\nIntroduction of a landing based regime at all establishments;\n\nContact Tracing arrangements for staff and prisoners within the NIPS Estate;\n\nFace coverings have been issued to all staff and temperature testing has been introduced for all staff entering our prisons. This will applies to essential staff from other organisations accessing each prison establishment.\n\nThese measures were taken to ensure that we protect, as best we can, the health, safety and wellbeing of prisoners and prison staff. In implementing these measures NIPS recognised that it is appropriate that they are regularly reviewed to ensure that they remain proportionate and appropriate to the prevailing guidance and circumstances relating to the COVID-19 outbreak in the community.","answerHtml":"The care of the people who work in and live in our prisons is of paramount importance and is taken very seriously by my Department.
Since 2 November 2020, 9 prisoners In Northern Ireland have tested positive for COVID-19. Of those individuals who tested positive, 4 were in committal quarantine, 2 were in general population and 3 were inpatients in outside hospital.
The Northern Ireland Prison Service was quick to respond to threat posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and introduced a range of measures to minimise the risk of transmission of the virus within our prisons. These measures include:
Working continually with our healthcare provider, the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board to develop joint procedures re testing, isolation, cleaning, PPE, contact tracing against latest health guidance;
Restriction of access to our prisons to essential staff;
Suspension of in person domestic and legal visits, which balanced by the introduction of virtual visits service wide;
Suspension of Accompanied and Unaccompanied Temporary Release;
Shielding arrangements for those prisoners identified as at greater risk by Healthcare in Prisons;
Quarantine, isolation and testing arrangements for new committals and prisoners who become symptomatic;
Self-isolation for staff and testing arrangements for staff and household members;
Prisons also has extensive arrangements in place for the supply and appropriate use of personal protective equipment and for handwashing;
All of this work has been supported by regular communication about the risks of infection and how these can be mitigated. Advice about handwashing, ‘catch it, kill it, bin it’ and social distancing is widely displayed and reinforced at establishment level and service wide;
Introduction of a landing based regime at all establishments;
Contact Tracing arrangements for staff and prisoners within the NIPS Estate;
Face coverings have been issued to all staff and temperature testing has been introduced for all staff entering our prisons. This will applies to essential staff from other organisations accessing each prison establishment.
These measures were taken to ensure that we protect, as best we can, the health, safety and wellbeing of prisoners and prison staff. In implementing these measures NIPS recognised that it is appropriate that they are regularly reviewed to ensure that they remain proportionate and appropriate to the prevailing guidance and circumstances relating to the COVID-19 outbreak in the community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014474%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326275"}},{"id":"326143","reference":"AQW 14412/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-10","answerBy":"2021-02-25","answered":"2022-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for their assessment of the statement from the Chief Medical Officer that lockdown restrictions could last into next year; (ii) to detail the potential impacts on the remit of their Department of (a) a full lockdown; or (b) more minimal restrictions over this period; and (iii) for their assessment of the statement’s potential impact on vaccine take-up and lockdown rules-compliance.","answerText":"The Executive has a collective intention that no restrictions will remain in place any longer than they are deemed necessary.\n\nThe Executive’s Pathway out of Restrictions outlines the approach and steps that will be taken to continue to move out of restrictions and the adaptations required to reduce the risks to recovery and longer term resilience to prevent future risk from the pandemic.\n\nCarrying out a step by step, gradual and sustainable approach to reopen society and the economy lowers the risk of going into another lockdown.\n\nThe success of our vaccination programme is one of the ways that will help us move out of this pandemic and offers hope that there are better days ahead. Currently over 80% of the population have received both vaccination doses and over 50% have received a booster vaccination.\n\nOver the winter, the Department of Health has been taking an integrated approach to surge and winter planning. This has included managing pressures arising from COVID-19, as well as other unscheduled pressures and focusing on maximising delivery of elective care. This has been achieved through a regional approach to managing critical care, respiratory services and unscheduled pressures to make best use of available capacity.\n\nA regional approach to managing critical care and respiratory services was effective during the severe COVID-19 surge last winter.\n\nSurge and winter planning has been informed by modelling of the pandemic and other likely pressures, such as the winter flu.\n\nThe Executive continues to ask people to adhere to the restrictions and public health advice by making safer decisions for themselves and each other.","answerHtml":"The Executive has a collective intention that no restrictions will remain in place any longer than they are deemed necessary.
The Executive’s Pathway out of Restrictions outlines the approach and steps that will be taken to continue to move out of restrictions and the adaptations required to reduce the risks to recovery and longer term resilience to prevent future risk from the pandemic.
Carrying out a step by step, gradual and sustainable approach to reopen society and the economy lowers the risk of going into another lockdown.
The success of our vaccination programme is one of the ways that will help us move out of this pandemic and offers hope that there are better days ahead. Currently over 80% of the population have received both vaccination doses and over 50% have received a booster vaccination.
Over the winter, the Department of Health has been taking an integrated approach to surge and winter planning. This has included managing pressures arising from COVID-19, as well as other unscheduled pressures and focusing on maximising delivery of elective care. This has been achieved through a regional approach to managing critical care, respiratory services and unscheduled pressures to make best use of available capacity.
A regional approach to managing critical care and respiratory services was effective during the severe COVID-19 surge last winter.
Surge and winter planning has been informed by modelling of the pandemic and other likely pressures, such as the winter flu.
The Executive continues to ask people to adhere to the restrictions and public health advice by making safer decisions for themselves and each other.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014412%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326143"}},{"id":"326142","reference":"AQW 14411/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-10","answerBy":"2021-02-25","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to the statement from the Chief Medical Officer that lockdown restrictions could last into next year, to detail the potential impacts on the remit of her Department of (i) a full lockdown; or (ii) more minimal restrictions over this period.","answerText":"There is tremendous uncertainty over the environment in which my Department will be operating in the next 12 months due to the ongoing pandemic. My Departmental operating model will need to be flexible enough to respond to developments in relation to the relaxing of social distancing and restrictions on the NICS office working environment as the Covid-19 recovery programme is rolled out.\n\nHowever, during 2020 my Department published ‘Rebuilding a Stronger Economy’, a framework to deliver higher-paying jobs, a highly skilled workforce and a more regionally balanced economy, and which broadly sets out where our focus must be applied to respond to these events.\n\nThe next steps are be to build upon the themes set out in this paper and prepare a ‘vision’ for the NI economy for the future that will guide our economic policy response to the simultaneous occurrence of once in a generation events, and set out NI’s distinctive offering as a place to work, live, visit and invest.\n\nA draft Economic Recovery Action Plan is being prepared and the Department will be undertaking a series of engagements with key stakeholders to inform and shape this economic vision. The work undertaken on the economic vision will, in turn, inform a future Economic Strategy which it is anticipated will developed by the end of 2021.\n\nAs events unfold over the course of the coming months, my Department will continue to analyse and adapt so that we can continue to protect jobs, support businesses and promote economic recovery.","answerHtml":"There is tremendous uncertainty over the environment in which my Department will be operating in the next 12 months due to the ongoing pandemic. My Departmental operating model will need to be flexible enough to respond to developments in relation to the relaxing of social distancing and restrictions on the NICS office working environment as the Covid-19 recovery programme is rolled out.
However, during 2020 my Department published ‘Rebuilding a Stronger Economy’, a framework to deliver higher-paying jobs, a highly skilled workforce and a more regionally balanced economy, and which broadly sets out where our focus must be applied to respond to these events.
The next steps are be to build upon the themes set out in this paper and prepare a ‘vision’ for the NI economy for the future that will guide our economic policy response to the simultaneous occurrence of once in a generation events, and set out NI’s distinctive offering as a place to work, live, visit and invest.
A draft Economic Recovery Action Plan is being prepared and the Department will be undertaking a series of engagements with key stakeholders to inform and shape this economic vision. The work undertaken on the economic vision will, in turn, inform a future Economic Strategy which it is anticipated will developed by the end of 2021.
As events unfold over the course of the coming months, my Department will continue to analyse and adapt so that we can continue to protect jobs, support businesses and promote economic recovery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014411%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326142"}},{"id":"326141","reference":"AQW 14410/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-10","answerBy":"2021-02-25","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, further to the statement from the Chief Medical Officer that lockdown restrictions could last into next year, (i) to detail the potential impacts on the remit of his Department of (a) a full lockdown; or (b) more minimal restrictions over this period; and (ii) for his assessment of the statement’s potential impact on vaccine take-up in schools.","answerText":"A continuation of a full lockdown will have a real impact on both the educational progression of pupils and on the mental health and wellbeing of pupils, young children and education staff. Education practitioners have been clear in their advice that the pandemic has had a significant impact on some pupils’ learning and their mental health has suffered from lack of social contact. A partial relaxation will reduce this impact and I have asked my officials to consider what additional measures should be put in place including an extension of the Engage programme in the next academic year.\n\nVaccination of vulnerable people is key to moving towards normality and I am keen that all Education sector staff and any vulnerable children avail of the vaccine when it becomes available for them.","answerHtml":"A continuation of a full lockdown will have a real impact on both the educational progression of pupils and on the mental health and wellbeing of pupils, young children and education staff. Education practitioners have been clear in their advice that the pandemic has had a significant impact on some pupils’ learning and their mental health has suffered from lack of social contact. A partial relaxation will reduce this impact and I have asked my officials to consider what additional measures should be put in place including an extension of the Engage programme in the next academic year.
Vaccination of vulnerable people is key to moving towards normality and I am keen that all Education sector staff and any vulnerable children avail of the vaccine when it becomes available for them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014410%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326141","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326141"}},{"id":"326140","reference":"AQW 14409/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-10","answerBy":"2021-02-25","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, further to the statement from the Chief Medical Officer that lockdown restrictions could last into next year, to detail the potential impacts on the remit of her Department of (i) a full lockdown; or (ii) more minimal restrictions over this period.","answerText":"Full lockdown or further limited restrictions will continue to have impacts across services within the remit of my Department, as well as upon the Sectors supported by my Department. The extent of the impact will depend on the restrictions and how long they last. These are being continually monitored and responded to as necessary.","answerHtml":"Full lockdown or further limited restrictions will continue to have impacts across services within the remit of my Department, as well as upon the Sectors supported by my Department. The extent of the impact will depend on the restrictions and how long they last. These are being continually monitored and responded to as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014409%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326140","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326140"}},{"id":"326139","reference":"AQW 14408/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-10","answerBy":"2021-02-25","answered":"2021-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the statement from the Chief Medical Officer that lockdown restrictions could last into next year; (ii) what engagement he has had with the Chief Medical Officer on whether these restrictions will be (a) a full lockdown; or (b) more minimal restrictions; and (iii) for his assessment of the statement’s potential impact on vaccine take-up and lockdown rules-compliance.","answerText":"The Executive's response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be led by the latest medical and scientific advice. We use a broad range of data, information and statistical indicators to inform decisions on the relaxation of restrictions, or whether we need to return to strengthening them.\n\nSince the current regulations were put in place on 26 December, we have been encouraged that the majority of people have been doing their utmost to utmost to them help to limit the spread of COVID-19.\n\nThis can be seen in our vaccination programme in Northern Ireland where the uptake has been very positive and more than 1.8m vaccine doses have been administered so far.\n\nIn December 2020, the Executive established an Executive COVID Taskforce, to be chaired by the interim Head of the Civil Service, to support a coherent and comprehensive response to the pandemic going forward. The Taskforce includes a number of work streams relating to adherence and compliance, protecting the public, strategic communications and recovery.\n\nOn 2 March this year, the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the COVID Strategy Group in the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO now holds the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations. This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations.\n\nThis work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.","answerHtml":"The Executive's response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to be led by the latest medical and scientific advice. We use a broad range of data, information and statistical indicators to inform decisions on the relaxation of restrictions, or whether we need to return to strengthening them.
Since the current regulations were put in place on 26 December, we have been encouraged that the majority of people have been doing their utmost to utmost to them help to limit the spread of COVID-19.
This can be seen in our vaccination programme in Northern Ireland where the uptake has been very positive and more than 1.8m vaccine doses have been administered so far.
In December 2020, the Executive established an Executive COVID Taskforce, to be chaired by the interim Head of the Civil Service, to support a coherent and comprehensive response to the pandemic going forward. The Taskforce includes a number of work streams relating to adherence and compliance, protecting the public, strategic communications and recovery.
On 2 March this year, the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the COVID Strategy Group in the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO now holds the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations. This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations.
This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014408%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326139","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326139"}},{"id":"325980","reference":"AQW 14335/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-09","answerBy":"2021-02-17","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his plans for keeping schools open during the February half-term for the children of key workers, given that the usual childcare options, such as grandparents, relatives and childcare providers will be unavailable for many.","answerText":"My Department wrote to schools on 5 February to advise them that following consultation with the Department for Health, it is the Department’s expectation that all schools will take their scheduled holidays over the February mid-term and Easter breaks, when parents would be expected to have made their normal arrangements for childcare.\n\nResumption of the arrangements for key worker and vulnerable children will continue once the February mid-term holidays are over until March 5th, and will be reviewed as part of the wider consideration of restrictions by the Executive.\n\nSpecial schools and EOTAS Centres will continue following the planned breaks as normal for face-to face teaching for the remainder of the school year or until their planned summer holiday period.","answerHtml":"My Department wrote to schools on 5 February to advise them that following consultation with the Department for Health, it is the Department’s expectation that all schools will take their scheduled holidays over the February mid-term and Easter breaks, when parents would be expected to have made their normal arrangements for childcare.
Resumption of the arrangements for key worker and vulnerable children will continue once the February mid-term holidays are over until March 5th, and will be reviewed as part of the wider consideration of restrictions by the Executive.
Special schools and EOTAS Centres will continue following the planned breaks as normal for face-to face teaching for the remainder of the school year or until their planned summer holiday period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014335%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325980"}},{"id":"325979","reference":"AQW 14334/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-09","answerBy":"2021-02-24","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 7701/17-22, when the (i) 388 residences in Garvagh; (ii) 508 residences in Aghadowey; (iii) 455 residences in Dundooan; (iv) 510 residences in Kilrea; (v) 453 residences in Macosquin; and (vi) 3,068 residences in East Londonderry due for the superfast broadband improvements are expected to be completed.","answerText":"The contract to deliver Project Stratum was awarded to Fibrus Networks Ltd in November 2020. The project will deliver gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure to over 76,000 primarily rural premises across Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department is unable to confirm when improvements will take place for all premises in a specific area. Fibrus Networks has developed a website to provide key information throughout the deployment phase of the project. This includes an online postcode/address checker, enabling citizens and businesses to confirm if/when their premises are included for improvement. This can be accessed at www.hyperfastni.com. The information will be updated as the project progresses.\n\nPursuant to AQW 7701/17-22, there are 78,750 premises within the target intervention area for Project Stratum. Unfortunately, with the funding available, Fibrus Networks’ solution could not reach all of the premises designated as eligible for the intervention. There are 2,517 premises currently out of scope. The impact of this on the areas raised is as follows:\n\nOf the 388 premises in Garvagh identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 371 are included in the current build plans;\n\nOf the 508 premises in Aghadowey identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 486 are included in the current build plans;\n\nOf the 455 premises in Dundooan identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 443 are included in the current build plans;\n\nOf the 510 premises in Kilrea identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 496 are included in the current build plans;\n\nOf the 453 premises in Macosquin identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 438 are included in the current build plans; and\n\nOf the 3,068 premises in East Londonderry identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 2,883 are included in the current build plans.\n\nDiscussions have already commenced with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to secure additional funding that, under the terms of the contract, would permit more eligible premises to be reached across the Project Stratum intervention area.","answerHtml":"The contract to deliver Project Stratum was awarded to Fibrus Networks Ltd in November 2020. The project will deliver gigabit-capable broadband infrastructure to over 76,000 primarily rural premises across Northern Ireland.
My Department is unable to confirm when improvements will take place for all premises in a specific area. Fibrus Networks has developed a website to provide key information throughout the deployment phase of the project. This includes an online postcode/address checker, enabling citizens and businesses to confirm if/when their premises are included for improvement. This can be accessed at www.hyperfastni.com. The information will be updated as the project progresses.
Pursuant to AQW 7701/17-22, there are 78,750 premises within the target intervention area for Project Stratum. Unfortunately, with the funding available, Fibrus Networks’ solution could not reach all of the premises designated as eligible for the intervention. There are 2,517 premises currently out of scope. The impact of this on the areas raised is as follows:
Of the 388 premises in Garvagh identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 371 are included in the current build plans;
Of the 508 premises in Aghadowey identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 486 are included in the current build plans;
Of the 455 premises in Dundooan identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 443 are included in the current build plans;
Of the 510 premises in Kilrea identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 496 are included in the current build plans;
Of the 453 premises in Macosquin identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 438 are included in the current build plans; and
Of the 3,068 premises in East Londonderry identified as eligible for Project Stratum, 2,883 are included in the current build plans.
Discussions have already commenced with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport to secure additional funding that, under the terms of the contract, would permit more eligible premises to be reached across the Project Stratum intervention area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014334%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325979"}},{"id":"325978","reference":"AQW 14333/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-09","answerBy":"2021-02-24","answered":"2021-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, pursuant to AQW 12604/17-22, whether he has any plans to submit a business case to prioritise key workers (i) in essential retail; (ii) living in rural areas; (iii) in private residential and care homes; and (iv) with underlying medical conditions, within the COVID-19 vaccination programme.","answerText":"Key workers in essential retail & (ii) Key workers living in rural areas;\n\nVaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers. JCVI have not recommended occupational prioritisation other than Health & Social Care Workers at Priority Group 2.\n\nKey workers in private residential and care homes\n\nAll key workers in private and residential care homes should have had the opportunity to receive their vaccination as vaccines were offered to all those within this sector under at priority group 1.\n\nKey workers with underlying medical conditions, within the COVID-19 vaccination programme.\n\nThe vaccination programme in Northern Ireland is running steadily and we have made exceptional progress through groups 1-4. Those people with underlying medical conditions which render them clinically extremely vulnerable are being vaccinated as part of priority group 4 and those clinically vulnerable will be vaccinated as part of priority group 6.","answerHtml":"Key workers in essential retail & (ii) Key workers living in rural areas;
Vaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers. JCVI have not recommended occupational prioritisation other than Health & Social Care Workers at Priority Group 2.
Key workers in private residential and care homes
All key workers in private and residential care homes should have had the opportunity to receive their vaccination as vaccines were offered to all those within this sector under at priority group 1.
Key workers with underlying medical conditions, within the COVID-19 vaccination programme.
The vaccination programme in Northern Ireland is running steadily and we have made exceptional progress through groups 1-4. Those people with underlying medical conditions which render them clinically extremely vulnerable are being vaccinated as part of priority group 4 and those clinically vulnerable will be vaccinated as part of priority group 6.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014333%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325978"}},{"id":"325977","reference":"AQW 14332/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-09","answerBy":"2021-02-24","answered":"2021-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) whether garages and workshops are eligible for the COVID-19 rates relief scheme; (ii) whether such businesses are considered retail; and (iii) to detail the rationale for these decisions.","answerText":"As part of the response to COVID 19, the Executive introduced an 18% reduction in the Regional Rate for all non-domestic premises, and also a range of support measures that included the 4 month rates holiday for all businesses and small business support grants. Many garages and workshops were eligible for this support.\n\nMy Department also implemented a targeted rate relief scheme following research carried out by University of Ulster Economic Policy Centre. Retail, hospitality, leisure, tourism, airports and childcare were identified in the UUEPC research as the business uses in the greatest need of support. This was the rationale for the Executive’s decision to put in place The Rates (Coronavirus) (Emergency Relief) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, as amended, which provides the detail of what uses may receive the additional 8-month targeted relief. The criteria adopted is similar to rate support schemes elsewhere.\n\nGarage and workshop premises would be eligible for the additional relief if they are occupied by businesses that use such premises for purposes as set out in the Regulations. A garage or workshop is seldom used as a retail hereditament as defined in the Regulations. Car showrooms are identified as qualifying for the additional relief.","answerHtml":"As part of the response to COVID 19, the Executive introduced an 18% reduction in the Regional Rate for all non-domestic premises, and also a range of support measures that included the 4 month rates holiday for all businesses and small business support grants. Many garages and workshops were eligible for this support.
My Department also implemented a targeted rate relief scheme following research carried out by University of Ulster Economic Policy Centre. Retail, hospitality, leisure, tourism, airports and childcare were identified in the UUEPC research as the business uses in the greatest need of support. This was the rationale for the Executive’s decision to put in place The Rates (Coronavirus) (Emergency Relief) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, as amended, which provides the detail of what uses may receive the additional 8-month targeted relief. The criteria adopted is similar to rate support schemes elsewhere.
Garage and workshop premises would be eligible for the additional relief if they are occupied by businesses that use such premises for purposes as set out in the Regulations. A garage or workshop is seldom used as a retail hereditament as defined in the Regulations. Car showrooms are identified as qualifying for the additional relief.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014332%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325977"}},{"id":"325976","reference":"AQW 14331/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-09","answerBy":"2021-02-24","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 13809/17-22, to detail (i) the number and value of money mistakenly given out to businesses via one of the COVID-19 grant or rates relief schemes; and (ii) the measures in place to recover any money mistakenly given out via the same schemes.","answerText":"My Department has identified 565 payments under the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme, with a total value of £5,650,000, which were made where it has later been determined that there were queries about eligibility for a grant under the Scheme.\n\nTo date 142 Small Business Support grants have been fully or partially returned. The total value of grants returned to date is £1,407,000.\n\nLand & Property Services (LPS) administered the Small Business Support Grant Scheme on behalf of the Department for the Economy, but has no power of recovery for payments made under the Scheme. LPS has offered to assist DfE with their recovery of these monies.\n\nFor the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme, Land & Property Services is not yet in a position to provide this information as investigations and analysis are not yet complete.\n\nWith regards to the 12 Month Rates Holiday, this is not a cash payment. It is a relief applied to a rate account which has the effect of reducing the amount of rates owed on the account. Where the relief has been applied in error, it is removed and the balance on the rate account adjusted accordingly. Billing and collection of rates then continues as normal. To date LPS has identified 295 properties that were awarded the relief and subsequently had this removed.","answerHtml":"My Department has identified 565 payments under the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme, with a total value of £5,650,000, which were made where it has later been determined that there were queries about eligibility for a grant under the Scheme.
To date 142 Small Business Support grants have been fully or partially returned. The total value of grants returned to date is £1,407,000.
Land & Property Services (LPS) administered the Small Business Support Grant Scheme on behalf of the Department for the Economy, but has no power of recovery for payments made under the Scheme. LPS has offered to assist DfE with their recovery of these monies.
For the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme, Land & Property Services is not yet in a position to provide this information as investigations and analysis are not yet complete.
With regards to the 12 Month Rates Holiday, this is not a cash payment. It is a relief applied to a rate account which has the effect of reducing the amount of rates owed on the account. Where the relief has been applied in error, it is removed and the balance on the rate account adjusted accordingly. Billing and collection of rates then continues as normal. To date LPS has identified 295 properties that were awarded the relief and subsequently had this removed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014331%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325976"}},{"id":"325766","reference":"AQW 14252/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the rationale of imposing an 11:00pm curfew on hot food delivery services.","answerText":"When the restrictions were reintroduced from 26 December 2020, restaurant takeaways and deliveries were not permitted as a necessary and proportionate response to the pandemic by limiting the hours that businesses were allowed to operate.\n\nAll relaxations were to be introduced gradually to minimise the risk to public health and, if necessary, could be quickly reversed.\n\nOn 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed a range of relaxations which came into effect on 30 April, including the ending of the curfew on restaurant and takeaway food deliveries. As with other businesses, they were subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.\n\nThe Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19.\n\nIt is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.\n\nScientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence\n\nOn 2 March 2021 the Executive ‘Moving Forward: The Executive's Pathway Out of Restrictions’. The pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.\n\nThis responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.","answerHtml":"When the restrictions were reintroduced from 26 December 2020, restaurant takeaways and deliveries were not permitted as a necessary and proportionate response to the pandemic by limiting the hours that businesses were allowed to operate.
All relaxations were to be introduced gradually to minimise the risk to public health and, if necessary, could be quickly reversed.
On 15 April 2021 the Executive agreed a range of relaxations which came into effect on 30 April, including the ending of the curfew on restaurant and takeaway food deliveries. As with other businesses, they were subject to the requirement to operate safely and to follow health and safety law and guidance and to take measures to keep staff and customers safe.
The Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19.
It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.
Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence
On 2 March 2021 the Executive ‘Moving Forward: The Executive's Pathway Out of Restrictions’. The pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO will now hold the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations.
This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations. This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014252%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325766"}},{"id":"325765","reference":"AQW 14251/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, in considering the increased fees and travelling costs incurred by students from Northern Ireland studying in Great Britain and Ireland, whether she will extend the £500 Covid Disruption Payment to these students.","answerText":"The Covid Disruption Payment is for full-time UK and EU students at Northern Ireland publicly funded Higher Education Institutions and full-time Higher Education students at the Further Education Colleges, in recognition of the disruption suffered by students to their studies due to the impact of Covid-19.\n\nI recognise that many Northern Ireland domiciled higher education students are enrolled in universities in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, and that these students will have been adversely impacted by the pandemic, just as those in local institutions have been. It is important to note, however, the funding agreed is for Northern Ireland institutions to support their students. Payments will issue directly from the institutions, not from the Department. It should also be noted the only feasible way in which a payment scheme of this size can be\n\nimplemented is to work through the students’ institutions; that is, either their university or further education college. The Department does not have the legal power to make payments through public bodies outside of Northern Ireland, such as a GB or ROI university or the Student Loans Company.\n\nHowever, Northern Ireland students elsewhere in the UK and the Republic of Ireland are not without support. The other jurisdictions have all recently announced significant increases to their student support packages.\n\nAn additional £50m to support students in England was recently announced which is in addition to £20m announced in December. Students in Scotland who are experiencing hardship as a result of coronavirus will be supported by £20m of Government funding. A further £10m has also been allocated to universities and colleges in Scotland for income lost in providing rent rebates. In January, the Welsh Government announced a £40m package of support for students facing financial hardship.\n\nI would encourage any Northern Ireland student studying outside of Northern Ireland to contact their university, should they be in financial hardship, and to avail of the support which is in place there.","answerHtml":"The Covid Disruption Payment is for full-time UK and EU students at Northern Ireland publicly funded Higher Education Institutions and full-time Higher Education students at the Further Education Colleges, in recognition of the disruption suffered by students to their studies due to the impact of Covid-19.
I recognise that many Northern Ireland domiciled higher education students are enrolled in universities in Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland, and that these students will have been adversely impacted by the pandemic, just as those in local institutions have been. It is important to note, however, the funding agreed is for Northern Ireland institutions to support their students. Payments will issue directly from the institutions, not from the Department. It should also be noted the only feasible way in which a payment scheme of this size can be
implemented is to work through the students’ institutions; that is, either their university or further education college. The Department does not have the legal power to make payments through public bodies outside of Northern Ireland, such as a GB or ROI university or the Student Loans Company.
However, Northern Ireland students elsewhere in the UK and the Republic of Ireland are not without support. The other jurisdictions have all recently announced significant increases to their student support packages.
An additional £50m to support students in England was recently announced which is in addition to £20m announced in December. Students in Scotland who are experiencing hardship as a result of coronavirus will be supported by £20m of Government funding. A further £10m has also been allocated to universities and colleges in Scotland for income lost in providing rent rebates. In January, the Welsh Government announced a £40m package of support for students facing financial hardship.
I would encourage any Northern Ireland student studying outside of Northern Ireland to contact their university, should they be in financial hardship, and to avail of the support which is in place there.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014251%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325765","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325765"}},{"id":"325763","reference":"AQW 14249/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on his Department’s efforts to help Presbyterian Mutual Society savers; (ii) what conversations he has had with the Westminster government regarding this; and (iii) when this issue will be resolved.","answerText":"This question has been transferred to my Department who are in the lead with regards to Presbyterian Mutual Society. In response to the questions put to Mr Murphy\n\n(i) A £225m loan was provided by the Executive to the Society in 2011. As a result of this savers who invested less than £20,000 in total received a payment of 100% of their shares and/ or 85% of their loans. Savers who invested more than £20,000 in total received a payment between 77% and 85% of the value of their holdings before deducting an individually agreed voluntary deferral. Payments were made in August 2011. There was no guarantee beyond this of any further recovery to Members and Shareholders made in the Scheme of Arrangement which was approved by the Society Members and Shareholders in July 2011.\n\n(ii) The Presbyterian Mutual Society is managed under a Court Approved Scheme of Arrangement. Following the collapse of the Presbyterian Mutual Society and subsequent review by a Ministerial working group established by HM Treasury to bring forward options to resolve the crisis, DETI (now DfE) was designated on 24 March 2011 to be the relevant department to take the solution forward. No further conversations have been required with Westminster.\n\n(iii) The Department’s loan facility was due to cease in November 2020, however the effect of the UK lockdowns have impacted the ability of the Joint Supervisors to complete their work by that date. To facilitate a more managed divestiture of the remaining assets, the Finance Minister and I have approved a two year extension to the loan facility until November 2022 if required. The Scheme of Arrangement, per the legal agreements, however ceases where “there are no further Assets of the Society which can be cost-effectively collected and be distributed in accordance with the provisions of the Scheme.” Presently the current forecasts indicate an expected £18.5m shortfall on the Department’s loan, which is ranked first in the order of payment. The Joint Supervisors have written to Members to state that given the current projected shortfall, and as the Department has first priority over all realisations, there will be no further repayment to any other class of creditor or member.","answerHtml":"This question has been transferred to my Department who are in the lead with regards to Presbyterian Mutual Society. In response to the questions put to Mr Murphy
(i) A £225m loan was provided by the Executive to the Society in 2011. As a result of this savers who invested less than £20,000 in total received a payment of 100% of their shares and/ or 85% of their loans. Savers who invested more than £20,000 in total received a payment between 77% and 85% of the value of their holdings before deducting an individually agreed voluntary deferral. Payments were made in August 2011. There was no guarantee beyond this of any further recovery to Members and Shareholders made in the Scheme of Arrangement which was approved by the Society Members and Shareholders in July 2011.
(ii) The Presbyterian Mutual Society is managed under a Court Approved Scheme of Arrangement. Following the collapse of the Presbyterian Mutual Society and subsequent review by a Ministerial working group established by HM Treasury to bring forward options to resolve the crisis, DETI (now DfE) was designated on 24 March 2011 to be the relevant department to take the solution forward. No further conversations have been required with Westminster.
(iii) The Department’s loan facility was due to cease in November 2020, however the effect of the UK lockdowns have impacted the ability of the Joint Supervisors to complete their work by that date. To facilitate a more managed divestiture of the remaining assets, the Finance Minister and I have approved a two year extension to the loan facility until November 2022 if required. The Scheme of Arrangement, per the legal agreements, however ceases where “there are no further Assets of the Society which can be cost-effectively collected and be distributed in accordance with the provisions of the Scheme.” Presently the current forecasts indicate an expected £18.5m shortfall on the Department’s loan, which is ranked first in the order of payment. The Joint Supervisors have written to Members to state that given the current projected shortfall, and as the Department has first priority over all realisations, there will be no further repayment to any other class of creditor or member.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014249%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325763","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325763"}},{"id":"325762","reference":"AQW 14248/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-08","answerBy":"2021-02-23","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) any anticipated energy price rises for consumers in the coming year; and (ii) the reasons for any rises.","answerText":"Domestic electricity and natural gas consumers in Northern Ireland receive price protection in the form of regulated tariffs for Power NI, SSE Airtricity Natural Gas1 and firmus energy2. This means that those three suppliers cannot change their domestic prices without the Utility Regulator’s (UR) approval.\n\nPrior to any domestic tariff change by those suppliers, UR will undertake a review to ensure that any proposed changes are reflective of the suppliers’ costs and do not exceed the regulated profit margin.\n\nChanges to regulated natural gas tariffs are effective typically on 1 April and/or 1 October each year. The Department has not received any indication of anticipated tariff changes this year.\n\n1 In Greater Belfast and Gas to the West.\n\n2 In the Ten Towns gas distribution area.\n\nWith regards to Power NI, the tariff reviews are more fluid and changes are made when required based on UR’s ongoing review of the supplier’s data.","answerHtml":"Domestic electricity and natural gas consumers in Northern Ireland receive price protection in the form of regulated tariffs for Power NI, SSE Airtricity Natural Gas1 and firmus energy2. This means that those three suppliers cannot change their domestic prices without the Utility Regulator’s (UR) approval.
Prior to any domestic tariff change by those suppliers, UR will undertake a review to ensure that any proposed changes are reflective of the suppliers’ costs and do not exceed the regulated profit margin.
Changes to regulated natural gas tariffs are effective typically on 1 April and/or 1 October each year. The Department has not received any indication of anticipated tariff changes this year.
1 In Greater Belfast and Gas to the West.
2 In the Ten Towns gas distribution area.
With regards to Power NI, the tariff reviews are more fluid and changes are made when required based on UR’s ongoing review of the supplier’s data.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014248%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325762","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325762"}},{"id":"325465","reference":"AQW 14166/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 13704/17-22, to detail (i) what discussions she has had with the Minister of Health to increase the enforcement measures in the public health regulations related to COVID-19 to empower the police to take more action in relation to potential breaches; and (ii) what discussions she has had with the Chief Constable about the PSNI’s ability to enforce the restrictions related to COVID-19 as currently published.","answerText":"(i) The Health Protection Regulations are the responsibility of the Department of the Health and adherence to the health protection regulations is a cross-cutting matter for the Executive. Any changes to the existing enforcement measures provided for by those regulations is therefore a matter for the Executive and I would be happy to contribute to any such discussions with the Health and other Ministers at the Executive.\n\nI can confirm however, that I have not had any discussions with the Health Minister specifically in relation to increasing enforcement measures and, since the last changes were made in early January, this is not an issue that has come to the Executive for consideration.\n\n(ii) Operational policing decisions on enforcing public health restrictions are a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The Chief Constable is also operationally independent from the Northern Ireland Executive.\n\nAs Justice Minister I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the Policing Board.\n\nI can advise however, that I meet regularly with the Chief Constable to discuss a range of matters and those discussions include matters arising from the enforcement of the COVID-19 restrictions. While I recognise that policing the restrictions is challenging, the Chief Constable has not made any request to me for changes to the current laws.\n\nAny questions regarding the PSNI’s approach to enforcing the public health regulations should be directed to the Chief Constable.","answerHtml":"(i) The Health Protection Regulations are the responsibility of the Department of the Health and adherence to the health protection regulations is a cross-cutting matter for the Executive. Any changes to the existing enforcement measures provided for by those regulations is therefore a matter for the Executive and I would be happy to contribute to any such discussions with the Health and other Ministers at the Executive.
I can confirm however, that I have not had any discussions with the Health Minister specifically in relation to increasing enforcement measures and, since the last changes were made in early January, this is not an issue that has come to the Executive for consideration.
(ii) Operational policing decisions on enforcing public health restrictions are a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The Chief Constable is also operationally independent from the Northern Ireland Executive.
As Justice Minister I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the Policing Board.
I can advise however, that I meet regularly with the Chief Constable to discuss a range of matters and those discussions include matters arising from the enforcement of the COVID-19 restrictions. While I recognise that policing the restrictions is challenging, the Chief Constable has not made any request to me for changes to the current laws.
Any questions regarding the PSNI’s approach to enforcing the public health regulations should be directed to the Chief Constable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014166%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325465","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325465"}},{"id":"325464","reference":"AQW 14165/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the rationale for keeping outdoor sports closed, where social distancing can be observed.","answerText":"The Executive extended the current public health restrictions, which came into effect on 26 December, until 5 March 2021. They will be reviewed again on 18 February.\n\nAs you are aware under the current Health Regulations no outdoor sport is permitted except at elite level. In addition, the Regulations permit individuals to undertake outdoor exercise in recognition of the importance of health and physical wellbeing at this time.\n\nMy Department continues to engage with sports Governing Bodies to prepare for a return to sport when it is safe to do so.","answerHtml":"The Executive extended the current public health restrictions, which came into effect on 26 December, until 5 March 2021. They will be reviewed again on 18 February.
As you are aware under the current Health Regulations no outdoor sport is permitted except at elite level. In addition, the Regulations permit individuals to undertake outdoor exercise in recognition of the importance of health and physical wellbeing at this time.
My Department continues to engage with sports Governing Bodies to prepare for a return to sport when it is safe to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014165%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325464","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325464"}},{"id":"325463","reference":"AQW 14164/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) to clarify the legal status of the essential travel advice; and (ii) what actions are being taken to prevent unessential travel, particularly at beauty spots and places popular with tourists.","answerText":"We are asking people to avoid visiting places where there is a chance that large numbers of people will gather and crowds will form.\n\nIf you go somewhere and there are crowds which will make social distancing difficult, consider going somewhere else instead.\n\nWhen travelling you should walk, cycle or use private transport, shared only with members of your household where possible.\n\nYou should avoid travelling as much as possible in light of the continuing Coronavirus (COVID-19) threat. If you need to travel abroad, keep up-to-date with the latest advice for the country you plan travelling to and the requirements for your return. You may have to either go into managed isolation (hotel quarantine) or self-isolate on your return.\n\nOver recent weeks, COVID-19 restrictions have been eased. By making safer choices and following public health advice, you can help lower the spread of COVID-19 in the community.\n\nFurther detail can be found using the links below:\n\nhttps://www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2021/99/contents/made\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travelling-within-common-travel-area\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice","answerHtml":"We are asking people to avoid visiting places where there is a chance that large numbers of people will gather and crowds will form.
If you go somewhere and there are crowds which will make social distancing difficult, consider going somewhere else instead.
When travelling you should walk, cycle or use private transport, shared only with members of your household where possible.
You should avoid travelling as much as possible in light of the continuing Coronavirus (COVID-19) threat. If you need to travel abroad, keep up-to-date with the latest advice for the country you plan travelling to and the requirements for your return. You may have to either go into managed isolation (hotel quarantine) or self-isolate on your return.
Over recent weeks, COVID-19 restrictions have been eased. By making safer choices and following public health advice, you can help lower the spread of COVID-19 in the community.
Further detail can be found using the links below:
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/nisr/2021/99/contents/made
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travelling-within-common-travel-area
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-travel-advice
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014164%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325463","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325463"}},{"id":"325462","reference":"AQW 14163/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to clarify the restrictions around people with mental health issues who rely on sport, particularly outdoor sport, to maintain good mental health.","answerText":"In the period since this question was tabled the Executive has taken a series of carefully considered steps to bring us to the current position. As part of these both indoor and outdoor sport are permitted to operate, with mitigations in place to reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19. For outdoor sport of over 30 people and indoor sport of over 15, a risk assessment is required to determine the maximum number of participants.\n\nChanging rooms and shower facilities can be opened, but you should avoid or minimise use where possible (for example, by arriving in kit and showering at home) and minimise time spent in the changing area.\n\nThe return to sport protocols put in place by sports governing bodies should be strictly adhered to including hygiene measures, social distancing and other mitigations. Any behaviour which may encourage the risk of transmission around sports activities, such as car sharing, congregation of people on the side-lines and sporting celebrations, should be avoided.\n\nSports governing bodies have a responsibility to ensure full compliance with the protocols and are expected to put arrangements in place to deal with non-compliant clubs, participants and coaches.","answerHtml":"In the period since this question was tabled the Executive has taken a series of carefully considered steps to bring us to the current position. As part of these both indoor and outdoor sport are permitted to operate, with mitigations in place to reduce the risk of transmission of Covid-19. For outdoor sport of over 30 people and indoor sport of over 15, a risk assessment is required to determine the maximum number of participants.
Changing rooms and shower facilities can be opened, but you should avoid or minimise use where possible (for example, by arriving in kit and showering at home) and minimise time spent in the changing area.
The return to sport protocols put in place by sports governing bodies should be strictly adhered to including hygiene measures, social distancing and other mitigations. Any behaviour which may encourage the risk of transmission around sports activities, such as car sharing, congregation of people on the side-lines and sporting celebrations, should be avoided.
Sports governing bodies have a responsibility to ensure full compliance with the protocols and are expected to put arrangements in place to deal with non-compliant clubs, participants and coaches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014163%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325462","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325462"}},{"id":"325461","reference":"AQW 14162/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-05","answerBy":"2021-02-22","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the amount of funding allocated to the Ulster University, in each of the last five years, broken down by campus.","answerText":"Funding provided to Ulster University by the Department for the Economy, and the former Department for Employment and Learning over the last five complete financial years is summarised in the table below.\n\n2015/16\n£m\t2016/17\n£m\t2017/18\n£m\t2018/19\n£m\t2019/20\n£m\tTotal\n£m\nRecurrent Grant\t76.3\t78.1\t79.0\t79.5\t79.8\t392.7\nOther Programmes\t8.1\t7.7\t8.3\t8.2\t8.1\t40.4\nCapital Funding\t5.2\t11.1\t8.4\t4.3\t2.5\t31.5\nTotal\t89.6\t96.9\t95.7\t92.0\t90.4\t464.6\n\n‘Recurrent Grant’ is recurrent funding provided to Ulster University to support the continuation of all activities delivered by the University associated with their core activities of teaching and research.\n\n‘Other Programmes’ funding is separate to ‘Recurrent Grant’ funding and is made up largely of funding for Postgraduate Awards, Student Support and Research Programmes however there is funding for a number of other smaller programmes also included in the total.\n\nMy Department provides ‘Recurrent’ and ‘Other Programmes’ funding to the Ulster University as a Higher Education Institution in its entirety. As an autonomous body, it is for Ulster University to decide how this funding is spent between campuses and my Department does not ask for this information. I am therefore unable to provide a breakdown of funding by campus.\n\n‘Capital Funding’ is funding provided to Ulster University to contribute to the long-term financial sustainability of the University’s learning and teaching, and research activities and the supporting physical infrastructure. Capital funding by campus is summarised in the table below:\n\nCampus\t2015/16\n£m\t2016/17\n£m\t2017/18\n£m\t2018/19\n£m\t2019/20\n£m\tTotal\n£m\nMagee\t£1.92\t£3.00\t£4.93\t£0.27\t£0.27\t£10.39\nColeraine\t£2.98\t£2.99\t£0.25\t-\t£0.16\t£6.38\nJordanstown\t-\t-\t£0.37\t-\t-\t£0.37\nAll Campuses\t£0.32\t£5.13\t£2.85\t£3.99\t£2.07\t£14.36\nTotal\t£5.22\t£11.12\t£8.40\t£4.26\t£2.50\t£31.50","answerHtml":"Funding provided to Ulster University by the Department for the Economy, and the former Department for Employment and Learning over the last five complete financial years is summarised in the table below.
| 2015/16 £m | 2016/17 £m | 2017/18 £m | 2018/19 £m | 2019/20 £m | Total £m | |
| Recurrent Grant | 76.3 | 78.1 | 79.0 | 79.5 | 79.8 | 392.7 |
| Other Programmes | 8.1 | 7.7 | 8.3 | 8.2 | 8.1 | 40.4 |
| Capital Funding | 5.2 | 11.1 | 8.4 | 4.3 | 2.5 | 31.5 |
| Total | 89.6 | 96.9 | 95.7 | 92.0 | 90.4 | 464.6 |
‘Recurrent Grant’ is recurrent funding provided to Ulster University to support the continuation of all activities delivered by the University associated with their core activities of teaching and research.
‘Other Programmes’ funding is separate to ‘Recurrent Grant’ funding and is made up largely of funding for Postgraduate Awards, Student Support and Research Programmes however there is funding for a number of other smaller programmes also included in the total.
My Department provides ‘Recurrent’ and ‘Other Programmes’ funding to the Ulster University as a Higher Education Institution in its entirety. As an autonomous body, it is for Ulster University to decide how this funding is spent between campuses and my Department does not ask for this information. I am therefore unable to provide a breakdown of funding by campus.
‘Capital Funding’ is funding provided to Ulster University to contribute to the long-term financial sustainability of the University’s learning and teaching, and research activities and the supporting physical infrastructure. Capital funding by campus is summarised in the table below:
| Campus | 2015/16 £m | 2016/17 £m | 2017/18 £m | 2018/19 £m | 2019/20 £m | Total £m |
| Magee | £1.92 | £3.00 | £4.93 | £0.27 | £0.27 | £10.39 |
| Coleraine | £2.98 | £2.99 | £0.25 | - | £0.16 | £6.38 |
| Jordanstown | - | - | £0.37 | - | - | £0.37 |
| All Campuses | £0.32 | £5.13 | £2.85 | £3.99 | £2.07 | £14.36 |
| Total | £5.22 | £11.12 | £8.40 | £4.26 | £2.50 | £31.50 |
Adults with Down’s syndrome are included in the Clinically Extremely Vulnerable group.
Persons who are clinically extremely vulnerable are included in priority group 4 which is the cohort of the population currently being vaccinated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014067%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325295"}},{"id":"325294","reference":"AQW 14066/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-04","answerBy":"2021-02-19","answered":"2021-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, in relation to the COVID-19 vaccination programme, whether he plans to prioritise familial carers for extremely vulnerable relatives and those residing in the same home as extremely vulnerable people.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland vaccination programme is well underway and priority groups 3, 4 and 5 are being vaccinated by GP practices and Trusts.\n\nThe main carer identified for vulnerable individuals will be vaccinated as part of priority group 6.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland vaccination programme is well underway and priority groups 3, 4 and 5 are being vaccinated by GP practices and Trusts.
The main carer identified for vulnerable individuals will be vaccinated as part of priority group 6.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014066%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325294"}},{"id":"325293","reference":"AQW 14065/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-04","answerBy":"2021-02-19","answered":"2021-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the number of healthcare workers in each Health and Social Care Trust who have been diagnosed with, or have missed work due to, (a) stress; or (b) PTSD, since March 2020; and (ii) the comparable figures for the previous two years.","answerText":"Due to the variable nature of working patterns across Health and Social Care (HSC), the metric used to measure staff absence is the percentage of hours lost.\n\nInformation on the percentage of hours lost due to stress and work related stress in each HSC Trust between 1st March and 31st December in each of the last 3 years is detailed in the table below. Information on PTSD is not available as this is not a recorded absence reason.\n\nHSC Trust\t% Hours Lost due to Stress and Work Related Stress\n1st March 2018 – 31st December 2018\t1st March 2019 – 31st December 2019\t1st March 2020 – 31st December 2020\nBelfast\t1.76%\t1.39%\t1.25%\nNorthern\t1.36%\t1.49%\t1.57%\nSouth Eastern\t1.11%\t1.24%\t1.48%\nSouthern\t0.81%\t0.90%\t1.17%\nWestern\t0.98%\t0.88%\t0.88%\nNI Ambulance Service\t2.21%\t1.90%\t2.01%\n\nSource: HSC Trusts","answerHtml":"Due to the variable nature of working patterns across Health and Social Care (HSC), the metric used to measure staff absence is the percentage of hours lost.
Information on the percentage of hours lost due to stress and work related stress in each HSC Trust between 1st March and 31st December in each of the last 3 years is detailed in the table below. Information on PTSD is not available as this is not a recorded absence reason.
| HSC Trust | % Hours Lost due to Stress and Work Related Stress | ||
| 1st March 2018 – 31st December 2018 | 1st March 2019 – 31st December 2019 | 1st March 2020 – 31st December 2020 | |
| Belfast | 1.76% | 1.39% | 1.25% |
| Northern | 1.36% | 1.49% | 1.57% |
| South Eastern | 1.11% | 1.24% | 1.48% |
| Southern | 0.81% | 0.90% | 1.17% |
| Western | 0.98% | 0.88% | 0.88% |
| NI Ambulance Service | 2.21% | 1.90% | 2.01% |
Source: HSC Trusts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014065%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325293"}},{"id":"325292","reference":"AQW 14064/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-04","answerBy":"2021-02-19","answered":"2021-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to avail of trained pharmacists in the COVID-19 vaccination programme.","answerText":"Community pharmacy has an important part to play in the vaccination rollout, as set out in the Department’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme Phased Plan published on 12 January 2021.","answerHtml":"Community pharmacy has an important part to play in the vaccination rollout, as set out in the Department’s COVID-19 Vaccination Programme Phased Plan published on 12 January 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014064%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325292"}},{"id":"325291","reference":"AQW 14063/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-04","answerBy":"2021-02-19","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the qualifying courses of students on unpaid clinical placement, assisting during the COVID-19 pandemic between 1 October 2020 and 31 March 2021, who are proposed to receive a one-off recognition payment of £2,000; and why all medical students on clinical placement during the same period are not receiving the payment.","answerText":"I have repeatedly emphasised my appreciation of the contribution made by all employees and students across Health and Social Care during the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nOn 25 January, I announced the payment of a flat rate, one-off special recognition of £2,000 to qualifying students on certain pre-registration healthcare programmes over the period 1 October 2020 to 31 March 2021.\n\nThe qualifying courses are the Nursing and Midwifery, Allied Health Profession, Social Work and Physician Associate pre-registration programmes commissioned by my Department from Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University.\n\nI am aware that many medical students have directly contributed to addressing the challenges presented by COVID-19 by taking up paid medical student technician and other healthcare assistant roles created by the HSC Trusts during this emergency. Individuals employed in these roles for a minimum of one month during the period 17 March 2020 to 31 January 2021 will be entitled to access the HSC £500 Staff Bonus Scheme on a proportionate basis.\n\nMedical Education leadership across the entire NHS has been united that the priority for medical students during the most recent phases of the COVID-19 pandemic should be to support them to progress with their learning. My Department is making significant investment to ensure that this happens despite the constraints resulting from COVID-19 protocols. We have augmented our annual expenditure of £27.2m on facilitating clinical placements for medical students. An additional £4.0m is being spent over the 2020/21 academic year to ensure that the necessary significant additional supervision can be provided when medical students are in clinical environments.","answerHtml":"I have repeatedly emphasised my appreciation of the contribution made by all employees and students across Health and Social Care during the unprecedented challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.
On 25 January, I announced the payment of a flat rate, one-off special recognition of £2,000 to qualifying students on certain pre-registration healthcare programmes over the period 1 October 2020 to 31 March 2021.
The qualifying courses are the Nursing and Midwifery, Allied Health Profession, Social Work and Physician Associate pre-registration programmes commissioned by my Department from Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University.
I am aware that many medical students have directly contributed to addressing the challenges presented by COVID-19 by taking up paid medical student technician and other healthcare assistant roles created by the HSC Trusts during this emergency. Individuals employed in these roles for a minimum of one month during the period 17 March 2020 to 31 January 2021 will be entitled to access the HSC £500 Staff Bonus Scheme on a proportionate basis.
Medical Education leadership across the entire NHS has been united that the priority for medical students during the most recent phases of the COVID-19 pandemic should be to support them to progress with their learning. My Department is making significant investment to ensure that this happens despite the constraints resulting from COVID-19 protocols. We have augmented our annual expenditure of £27.2m on facilitating clinical placements for medical students. An additional £4.0m is being spent over the 2020/21 academic year to ensure that the necessary significant additional supervision can be provided when medical students are in clinical environments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2014063%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325291"}},{"id":"326789","reference":"AQO 1571/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-04","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-04-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline any practical problems experienced by local businesses following the implementation of the Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The most significant issue we have seen in the past month has been uncertainty. Our businesses have been put in a difficult position due to the late clarity on the operation of the Protocol and the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. This is exacerbated by the Covid-19 restrictions.\n\nThe lack of preparedness by GB suppliers regarding the customs requirements needed for goods moving to NI has caused disruption to businesses.\n\nThere is also ongoing uncertainty relating to parcels with the grace period due to end on 31 March. It is important that we avoid a repeat of businesses taking decisions on deliveries to NI due to a lack of guidance from the UK Government.\n\nUnderstanding rules of origin is a big issue for local manufacturers who find that whilst EU-origin content may enter the UK tariff-free under the TCA, moving these on to NI could result in not being able to benefit from the tariff-free deal as they may be viewed as “at risk”. As an outcome this is difficult to understand, it is seen as a barrier and many manufacturers, even those with significant experience in Rules of Origin, are struggling to comprehend.\n\nWhile businesses have not yet experienced disruption due to tariffs on goods purchased from GB, I am very concerned that this will cause significant disruption when businesses come to complete the supplementary declaration process.\n\nMy Department will continue to provide guidance and support to businesses navigating the new trading environment, in addition to the support offered through Invest NI and InterTradeIreland, whilst pressing the UK Government for longer-term clarity on these key issues.","answerHtml":"The most significant issue we have seen in the past month has been uncertainty. Our businesses have been put in a difficult position due to the late clarity on the operation of the Protocol and the UK-EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement. This is exacerbated by the Covid-19 restrictions.
The lack of preparedness by GB suppliers regarding the customs requirements needed for goods moving to NI has caused disruption to businesses.
There is also ongoing uncertainty relating to parcels with the grace period due to end on 31 March. It is important that we avoid a repeat of businesses taking decisions on deliveries to NI due to a lack of guidance from the UK Government.
Understanding rules of origin is a big issue for local manufacturers who find that whilst EU-origin content may enter the UK tariff-free under the TCA, moving these on to NI could result in not being able to benefit from the tariff-free deal as they may be viewed as “at risk”. As an outcome this is difficult to understand, it is seen as a barrier and many manufacturers, even those with significant experience in Rules of Origin, are struggling to comprehend.
While businesses have not yet experienced disruption due to tariffs on goods purchased from GB, I am very concerned that this will cause significant disruption when businesses come to complete the supplementary declaration process.
My Department will continue to provide guidance and support to businesses navigating the new trading environment, in addition to the support offered through Invest NI and InterTradeIreland, whilst pressing the UK Government for longer-term clarity on these key issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201571%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=326789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=326789"}},{"id":"325121","reference":"AQW 13986/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-03","answerBy":"2021-02-18","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail any changes to the Volunteer Infrastructure Strategic Group; (ii) whether partners within the strategic group are treated and considered equally; (iii) whether any partner within the strategic group is providing a specific service for her Department; (iv) to detail the procurement process for this service; and (v) how this service has been communicated to other partners within the group.","answerText":"My Department provides funding to Volunteer Now and six independent Volunteer Centres under its longstanding Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme.\n\nThe relationship between the Department and the seven organisations within the Group is governed by agreed delivery objectives around the shared service they provide. There is no organisation that provides a specific service for the Department.","answerHtml":"My Department provides funding to Volunteer Now and six independent Volunteer Centres under its longstanding Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme.
The relationship between the Department and the seven organisations within the Group is governed by agreed delivery objectives around the shared service they provide. There is no organisation that provides a specific service for the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013986%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325121"}},{"id":"325120","reference":"AQW 13985/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-03","answerBy":"2021-02-18","answered":"2021-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the purpose of the Be Collective platform; (ii) whether her Department funded or part-funded this platform; (iii) whether the platform is intended to replace local volunteer centres; and (iv) for her assessment of the ability of the Be Collective platform to respond to specific, local needs, particularly during the response related to COVID-19.","answerText":"Be Collective is a digital platform to promote volunteering which was launched in February 2020. It allows people to find local volunteering opportunities and allows organisations to co-ordinate and communicate with volunteers and to recognise and support the skills that volunteers develop. My Department funded Volunteer Now to develop this platform.\n\nBe Collective is not intended to replace local volunteer centres. It is intended to strengthen connections across the volunteer centres and help streamline monitoring, reporting and the roll out of best practice.\n\nThe platform is structured to support local volunteering needs and was used successfully to support the #HelpEachOther campaign for COVID 19 volunteering.","answerHtml":"Be Collective is a digital platform to promote volunteering which was launched in February 2020. It allows people to find local volunteering opportunities and allows organisations to co-ordinate and communicate with volunteers and to recognise and support the skills that volunteers develop. My Department funded Volunteer Now to develop this platform.
Be Collective is not intended to replace local volunteer centres. It is intended to strengthen connections across the volunteer centres and help streamline monitoring, reporting and the roll out of best practice.
The platform is structured to support local volunteering needs and was used successfully to support the #HelpEachOther campaign for COVID 19 volunteering.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013985%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325120"}},{"id":"325119","reference":"AQW 13984/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-03","answerBy":"2021-02-18","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any engagement or correspondence with councils relating to their work with local volunteer centres; and (ii) any matters raised.","answerText":"My department provides funding to Volunteer Now and six independent Volunteer Centres under its longstanding Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme to provide advice and support to organisations involved in supporting Volunteering, including Councils.\n\nIn December 2020 a distinct Volunteering Fund was distributed to Councils as part of the Department’s Access to Food COVID Emergency Response.\n\nCouncil representatives were involved in design workshops in December and also in individual meetings to outline the nature of the support available through the Fund. The Memorandum of Understanding for this funding specifies that Volunteer Centres and Volunteer Now should connect into local responses where possible. It also highlights the range of support that these organisations can offer to Councils in relation to Volunteering.","answerHtml":"My department provides funding to Volunteer Now and six independent Volunteer Centres under its longstanding Volunteering Infrastructure Support Programme to provide advice and support to organisations involved in supporting Volunteering, including Councils.
In December 2020 a distinct Volunteering Fund was distributed to Councils as part of the Department’s Access to Food COVID Emergency Response.
Council representatives were involved in design workshops in December and also in individual meetings to outline the nature of the support available through the Fund. The Memorandum of Understanding for this funding specifies that Volunteer Centres and Volunteer Now should connect into local responses where possible. It also highlights the range of support that these organisations can offer to Councils in relation to Volunteering.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013984%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325119"}},{"id":"325118","reference":"AQW 13983/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-03","answerBy":"2021-02-18","answered":"2021-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the costs to businesses for furloughed staff; and (ii) whether she has any plans to financially support businesses to cover costs of furloughed staff to prevent further redundancies.","answerText":"The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) is run by HMRC on behalf\n\nof the UK Government.\n\nUnder the grant scheme, the government will cover 80% of wages for the period\n\n1 November 2020 to 30 April 2021. Businesses still need to pay employer\n\nNational Insurance contributions and employer pension contributions, and\n\ncannot claim for these. Businesses can also choose to top up employees’ wages\n\nabove the minimum 80% furlough pay but are not required to.\n\nThe Department for the Economy has provided over £370 million of support to\n\nover 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of\n\npounds to thousands more.\n\nAny new or additional Covid related funding and its allocation would require\n\ncollective agreement by the Executive.","answerHtml":"The Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme (furlough) is run by HMRC on behalf
of the UK Government.
Under the grant scheme, the government will cover 80% of wages for the period
1 November 2020 to 30 April 2021. Businesses still need to pay employer
National Insurance contributions and employer pension contributions, and
cannot claim for these. Businesses can also choose to top up employees’ wages
above the minimum 80% furlough pay but are not required to.
The Department for the Economy has provided over £370 million of support to
over 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of
pounds to thousands more.
Any new or additional Covid related funding and its allocation would require
collective agreement by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013983%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325118"}},{"id":"325117","reference":"AQW 13982/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-03","answerBy":"2021-02-18","answered":"2021-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on any action they have taken to mitigate the issues arising from the implementation of Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland.","answerText":"While there are differing views across all parties in the Executive on the decision to leave the EU, we are committed to working together to achieve the best possible outcome for our businesses and citizens.\n\nThe Executive continues to consider and discuss regular updates on impacts arising from the end of the Transition Period and we are closely engaging with the UK Government at both Ministerial and official level to deal with issues as they arise.\n\nOn 3 February we met with the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič to discuss the challenges that have arisen following the end of the Transition period, and to seek action to improve the situation.\n\nAt the meeting, it was agreed that the UK and EU will have further discussions to consider what can be done to address these challenges.\n\nWe are also continuing to attend regular meetings of the Exit Operations (XO) Cabinet Committee, where we have taken the opportunity to highlight the significant issues impacting on our businesses and citizens, and to press for solutions.","answerHtml":"While there are differing views across all parties in the Executive on the decision to leave the EU, we are committed to working together to achieve the best possible outcome for our businesses and citizens.
The Executive continues to consider and discuss regular updates on impacts arising from the end of the Transition Period and we are closely engaging with the UK Government at both Ministerial and official level to deal with issues as they arise.
On 3 February we met with the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster and European Commission Vice President Maroš Šefčovič to discuss the challenges that have arisen following the end of the Transition period, and to seek action to improve the situation.
At the meeting, it was agreed that the UK and EU will have further discussions to consider what can be done to address these challenges.
We are also continuing to attend regular meetings of the Exit Operations (XO) Cabinet Committee, where we have taken the opportunity to highlight the significant issues impacting on our businesses and citizens, and to press for solutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013982%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=325117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=325117"}},{"id":"324786","reference":"AQW 13812/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-01","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has any plans to identify and financially support anyone who has not been eligible for COVID-19-related grants to date.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government have introduced a\n\nwide range of business support schemes to help ease the extraordinary burden\n\nthat has been placed on entire communities and our local economy, due to the\n\nongoing global pandemic.\n\nTo date, my Department has provided over £370 million of lifeline support to\n\nover 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of\n\npounds to thousands more.\n\nWhilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for\n\nspecific targeted support, it is not possible to design and fund schemes for every\n\nsector of business, employment group or indeed individual across our society.\n\nUltimately however, it will be for the Executive collectively to determine how\n\nany new or additional Covid related funding should be allocated.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Executive and the UK Government have introduced a
wide range of business support schemes to help ease the extraordinary burden
that has been placed on entire communities and our local economy, due to the
ongoing global pandemic.
To date, my Department has provided over £370 million of lifeline support to
over 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of
pounds to thousands more.
Whilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for
specific targeted support, it is not possible to design and fund schemes for every
sector of business, employment group or indeed individual across our society.
Ultimately however, it will be for the Executive collectively to determine how
any new or additional Covid related funding should be allocated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013812%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324786"}},{"id":"324785","reference":"AQW 13811/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-01","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-07-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has considered a zero COVID strategy; and to detail the challenges of such an approach.","answerText":"I and my officials routinely discuss measures to reduce the spread of the virus and to help manage the pressures on our health and social care system. The Executive's response to the COVID-19 pandemic is led by the latest medical and scientific advice and we use a broad range of data, information and statistical indicators to inform decisions.\n\nA range of evidence used in the consideration of dealing with the pandemic is published online by my department at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence\n\nIn December 2020, the Executive established an Executive COVID Taskforce, chaired by the interim Head of the Civil Service, to support a coherent and comprehensive response to the pandemic going forward. The Taskforce includes a number of work streams relating to adherence and compliance, protecting the public, strategic communications and recovery.\n\nOn 2 March this year, the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.\n\nIn this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the COVID Strategy Group in the Executive Office (TEO).\n\nTEO holds the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations. This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations.\n\nThis work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.","answerHtml":"I and my officials routinely discuss measures to reduce the spread of the virus and to help manage the pressures on our health and social care system. The Executive's response to the COVID-19 pandemic is led by the latest medical and scientific advice and we use a broad range of data, information and statistical indicators to inform decisions.
A range of evidence used in the consideration of dealing with the pandemic is published online by my department at the following link:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence
In December 2020, the Executive established an Executive COVID Taskforce, chaired by the interim Head of the Civil Service, to support a coherent and comprehensive response to the pandemic going forward. The Taskforce includes a number of work streams relating to adherence and compliance, protecting the public, strategic communications and recovery.
On 2 March this year, the Executive published its planned pathway out of the current COVID-19 restrictions. The Pathway is supported by a revised process for a 4-week Executive review cycle. The new process also permits a more urgent consideration of proposals from Departments deemed to have urgent or compelling reasons to fall outside the four week review process.
In this new process, the management of the changes to the restrictions regulations moved to the COVID Strategy Group in the Executive Office (TEO).
TEO holds the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations. This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations.
This work is supported by a Cross-Departmental Working Group, chaired by the Director of the TEO COVID-19 Taskforce team with membership from all 9 Departments and key stakeholders, including local government and PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013811%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324785"}},{"id":"324784","reference":"AQW 13810/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-01","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the Executive’s fraud adverse measures.","answerText":"There are various measures in place across the Public Sector to detect, report and prevent fraud.\n\nManaging Public Money Northern Ireland (MPMNI) provides guidance to departments and their Arm’s Length Bodies (ALBs) on preventing, countering and dealing with fraud, and all departments are required to develop anti-fraud strategies, including the following measures:\n\nDeveloping a Fraud Policy Statement and a Fraud Response Plan;\n\nDeveloping and promoting an anti-fraud culture;\n\nAllocating responsibilities for the overall management of fraud risk;\n\nEstablishing cost-effective internal controls to detect and deter fraud;\n\nDeveloping the skills and expertise to manage fraud risk effectively;\n\nEstablishing well publicised avenues for staff and members of the public to report their suspicions of fraud;\n\nResponding quickly and effectively to fraud when it arises;\n\nEstablishing systems to monitor the progress of investigations;\n\nTracking all fraud cases and drawing on Internal Audit experience to strengthen control to prevent repetition;\n\nTaking appropriate action (criminal, disciplinary) against fraudsters and seeking to recover losses;\n\nContinuously evaluating the effectiveness of anti-fraud measures; and\n\nWorking with stakeholders to tackle fraud through intelligence sharing, joint investigations, etc. and the results of data matching under the National Fraud Initiative.\n\nIn addition to MPMNI, guidance is also available to departments on managing the risk of fraud, tackling external fraud, and raising concerns, as well as general guidance on good corporate governance.\n\nNICS departments are required to report immediately, to the Department of Finance (DoF) and the C&AG, all frauds (proven or suspected), including attempted fraud, which affect their departments or the agencies and ALBs sponsored by them. Departments are also required to submit an annual return to DoF in respect of each financial year, giving details of all discovered cases of suspected and proven fraud (including attempted fraud). These departmental annual returns then form the basis of the Annual Theft and Fraud Report, which is published each year.\n\nNICS departments also have departmental Fraud Working Groups, who meet regularly to consider issues in relation to fraud, raise awareness of anti-fraud measures and disseminate information pertinent to the prevention and detection of fraud.\n\nDoF are committed to working with departments and our colleagues in the NIAO to ensure a coordinated approach to fraud prevention and management is implemented across the public sector.\n\nA NICS Fraud Forum was established in March 2005 as a best practice advisory group. The Forum is chaired by the Treasury Officer of Accounts (DoF) and includes departmental, PSNI and NIAO representation. The group meets 2-3 times per year and is responsible for developing practical ways to promote an anti-fraud culture using existing best practice from within departments and other sources. A representative from the NICS Fraud Forum also attends the Criminal Finances Sub Group of the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF), ensuring there is an appropriate link between the work of the OCTF and the NICS Fraud Forum.\n\nWhilst responsibility for the detection and prevention of fraud lies with departmental management, Internal Audit also have a role in considering fraud risks when carrying out reviews, and the Fraud Investigation Team of Group Internal Audit and Fraud Investigation Services will conduct investigations (at the request of management) once a fraud has been identified.","answerHtml":"There are various measures in place across the Public Sector to detect, report and prevent fraud.
Managing Public Money Northern Ireland (MPMNI) provides guidance to departments and their Arm’s Length Bodies (ALBs) on preventing, countering and dealing with fraud, and all departments are required to develop anti-fraud strategies, including the following measures:
Developing a Fraud Policy Statement and a Fraud Response Plan;
Developing and promoting an anti-fraud culture;
Allocating responsibilities for the overall management of fraud risk;
Establishing cost-effective internal controls to detect and deter fraud;
Developing the skills and expertise to manage fraud risk effectively;
Establishing well publicised avenues for staff and members of the public to report their suspicions of fraud;
Responding quickly and effectively to fraud when it arises;
Establishing systems to monitor the progress of investigations;
Tracking all fraud cases and drawing on Internal Audit experience to strengthen control to prevent repetition;
Taking appropriate action (criminal, disciplinary) against fraudsters and seeking to recover losses;
Continuously evaluating the effectiveness of anti-fraud measures; and
Working with stakeholders to tackle fraud through intelligence sharing, joint investigations, etc. and the results of data matching under the National Fraud Initiative.
In addition to MPMNI, guidance is also available to departments on managing the risk of fraud, tackling external fraud, and raising concerns, as well as general guidance on good corporate governance.
NICS departments are required to report immediately, to the Department of Finance (DoF) and the C&AG, all frauds (proven or suspected), including attempted fraud, which affect their departments or the agencies and ALBs sponsored by them. Departments are also required to submit an annual return to DoF in respect of each financial year, giving details of all discovered cases of suspected and proven fraud (including attempted fraud). These departmental annual returns then form the basis of the Annual Theft and Fraud Report, which is published each year.
NICS departments also have departmental Fraud Working Groups, who meet regularly to consider issues in relation to fraud, raise awareness of anti-fraud measures and disseminate information pertinent to the prevention and detection of fraud.
DoF are committed to working with departments and our colleagues in the NIAO to ensure a coordinated approach to fraud prevention and management is implemented across the public sector.
A NICS Fraud Forum was established in March 2005 as a best practice advisory group. The Forum is chaired by the Treasury Officer of Accounts (DoF) and includes departmental, PSNI and NIAO representation. The group meets 2-3 times per year and is responsible for developing practical ways to promote an anti-fraud culture using existing best practice from within departments and other sources. A representative from the NICS Fraud Forum also attends the Criminal Finances Sub Group of the Organised Crime Task Force (OCTF), ensuring there is an appropriate link between the work of the OCTF and the NICS Fraud Forum.
Whilst responsibility for the detection and prevention of fraud lies with departmental management, Internal Audit also have a role in considering fraud risks when carrying out reviews, and the Fraud Investigation Team of Group Internal Audit and Fraud Investigation Services will conduct investigations (at the request of management) once a fraud has been identified.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013810%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324784","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324784"}},{"id":"324783","reference":"AQW 13809/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-01","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail each disclaimer for every grant or application process related to COVID-19 in the event the grant was paid incorrectly.","answerText":"LPS has been responsible for two COVID 19 grant schemes – the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme and the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme.\n\nLPS is also responsible for an application based COVID 19 rate relief scheme known as the 12 month rates holiday. Copies of the declarations applicants must agree to for each scheme have been placed in the Assembly library.","answerHtml":"LPS has been responsible for two COVID 19 grant schemes – the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme and the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme.
LPS is also responsible for an application based COVID 19 rate relief scheme known as the 12 month rates holiday. Copies of the declarations applicants must agree to for each scheme have been placed in the Assembly library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013809%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324783"}},{"id":"324782","reference":"AQW 13808/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-02-01","answerBy":"2021-02-16","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the number of applications refused for the £10,000 small business grant related to COVID-19 due to the grant having already been paid to the same address.","answerText":"The reason for rejection of an application for the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant was not recorded in a way that identifies applications rejected specifically because another grant had already been paid to the same address. Therefore, this information cannot be provided.","answerHtml":"The reason for rejection of an application for the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant was not recorded in a way that identifies applications rejected specifically because another grant had already been paid to the same address. Therefore, this information cannot be provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013808%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324782","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324782"}},{"id":"324555","reference":"AQW 13705/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-29","answerBy":"2021-02-15","answered":"2021-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 13289/17-22, why the opening of special units attached to mainstream schools is an operational matter for the school, but the opening of special schools generally is not an operational matter for those schools.","answerText":"As I announced in my statement to the Ad-Hoc Committee (6 January) the decision that all pre-school education settings and schools were to open from 8 January to accommodate supervised learning for children of key workers; and vulnerable children and young people and that Special Schools and EOTAS were to open for in-person provision of education, was taken by the Executive informed by judgements based on the scientific and public health advice available.\n\nThe operation of special units attached to mainstream will be determined by the School based on the number of children or young people attending for supervised learning and the resources available to the school. The Education Authority (EA) has advised schools that where there are a number of children attending from a Learning Support Class, the school should work to maintain their routine environment.\n\nSpecial Schools are to provide in person learning and access to additional therapeutic interventions for their pupils and as such must work in conjunction with the EA and Allied Health Professionals to ensure that any operational matters that might prove a barrier to this are addressed.","answerHtml":"As I announced in my statement to the Ad-Hoc Committee (6 January) the decision that all pre-school education settings and schools were to open from 8 January to accommodate supervised learning for children of key workers; and vulnerable children and young people and that Special Schools and EOTAS were to open for in-person provision of education, was taken by the Executive informed by judgements based on the scientific and public health advice available.
The operation of special units attached to mainstream will be determined by the School based on the number of children or young people attending for supervised learning and the resources available to the school. The Education Authority (EA) has advised schools that where there are a number of children attending from a Learning Support Class, the school should work to maintain their routine environment.
Special Schools are to provide in person learning and access to additional therapeutic interventions for their pupils and as such must work in conjunction with the EA and Allied Health Professionals to ensure that any operational matters that might prove a barrier to this are addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013705%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324555"}},{"id":"324554","reference":"AQW 13704/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-29","answerBy":"2021-02-15","answered":"2021-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of enforcement related to the latest COVID-19 restrictions.","answerText":"The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (NI) 2020 are the responsibility of the Department of Health.\n\nOperational policing decisions on enforcing public health restrictions are a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The Chief Constable is also operationally independent from the Northern Ireland Executive.\n\nAs Justice Minister I am are committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the Policing Board.\n\nI can advise however, that the PSNI continues to use the 3Es of engage, explain and encourage to secure public adherence with the regulations as their main approach. Enforcement will always be the last resort however, where it is necessary and proportionate the PSNI will do so in accordance with the Regulations and supporting Guidance.\n\nThe PSNI updates its enforcement statistics weekly on its website as www.psni.ppn.police.uk\n\nAny questions regarding the PSNI’s approach to enforcing the public health regulations should be directed to the Chief Constable.","answerHtml":"The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (NI) 2020 are the responsibility of the Department of Health.
Operational policing decisions on enforcing public health restrictions are a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. The Chief Constable is also operationally independent from the Northern Ireland Executive.
As Justice Minister I am are committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the Policing Board.
I can advise however, that the PSNI continues to use the 3Es of engage, explain and encourage to secure public adherence with the regulations as their main approach. Enforcement will always be the last resort however, where it is necessary and proportionate the PSNI will do so in accordance with the Regulations and supporting Guidance.
The PSNI updates its enforcement statistics weekly on its website as www.psni.ppn.police.uk
Any questions regarding the PSNI’s approach to enforcing the public health regulations should be directed to the Chief Constable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013704%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324554"}},{"id":"324553","reference":"AQW 13703/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-29","answerBy":"2021-02-15","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail which health and social care staff will receive the £500 recognition payment; (ii) whether agency workers will receive the payment; (iii) whether community pharmacy staff will receive the payment; and (iv) whether registered carers working in the community will receive the payment.","answerText":"An FAQ on the special recognition payment, which includes eligibility criteria, has been published on the Department’s website and is available at the following link;\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs\n\nAgency workers on longer term placements will be eligible.\n\nOfficials in My Department are also developing mechanisms to provide this payment to wider healthcare settings, such as community pharmacy staff.\n\nOfficials in My Department are also looking at ways to provide this payment to those working in Independent social care settings, including those working in care homes, homecare staff, palliative care/hospice staff","answerHtml":"An FAQ on the special recognition payment, which includes eligibility criteria, has been published on the Department’s website and is available at the following link;
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/hsc-staff-recognition-payment-faqs
Agency workers on longer term placements will be eligible.
Officials in My Department are also developing mechanisms to provide this payment to wider healthcare settings, such as community pharmacy staff.
Officials in My Department are also looking at ways to provide this payment to those working in Independent social care settings, including those working in care homes, homecare staff, palliative care/hospice staff
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013703%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324553"}},{"id":"324552","reference":"AQW 13702/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-29","answerBy":"2021-02-15","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she plans to reopen the Pavement Café Scheme, given the ongoing restrictions related to COVID-19.","answerText":"As the Pavement Café Scheme falls under the remit of DfC I am providing answer to this question.\n\nUnder the Licensing of Pavement Cafés Act (NI) 2014 (the Act), it is the responsibility of each district council to design a pavement café licensing regime appropriate to their area and the Act contains a significant degree of flexibility for councils to respond to local circumstances.\n\nAt present, hospitality venues are not permitted to offer outdoor seating for those availing of takeaway services. The current regulations are in place until 5 March 2021. It would be a matter for each district council to then consider whether or not to open any such licensing scheme.","answerHtml":"As the Pavement Café Scheme falls under the remit of DfC I am providing answer to this question.
Under the Licensing of Pavement Cafés Act (NI) 2014 (the Act), it is the responsibility of each district council to design a pavement café licensing regime appropriate to their area and the Act contains a significant degree of flexibility for councils to respond to local circumstances.
At present, hospitality venues are not permitted to offer outdoor seating for those availing of takeaway services. The current regulations are in place until 5 March 2021. It would be a matter for each district council to then consider whether or not to open any such licensing scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013702%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324552","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324552"}},{"id":"324551","reference":"AQW 13701/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-29","answerBy":"2021-02-15","answered":"2021-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail the circumstances in which a golf club or business attached to a golf club is eligible for the Local Restrictions Support Scheme.","answerText":"Sports Clubs are not eligible for the Local Restrictions Support Scheme. The Department of Communities has policy responsibility for sport and it has put in place the Sports Sustainability Fund to provide financial support to sports clubs affiliated to governing bodies recognised by Sport NI. The Sports Sustainability Fund provides tailored support for each organisation by assessing its expenditure, income and losses. This assessment can cover loss of income from the provision of hospitality by the club. Applicants to the Sports Sustainability Fund must declare income from any other Covid related schemes, including LRSS, for consideration in the assessment of their award. Since there would be no net benefit to clubs from applying to both schemes, the appropriate approach was for sports clubs to apply to the Sports Sustainability Fund.\n\nAs sports clubs, golf clubs themselves are not eligible for support from the LRSS and should have accessed support from the Sports Sustainability Fund through their recognised governing body.\n\nA business attached or located within a golf club’s premises, such as a shop, bar or restaurant business, which is owned by an operator who is independent of the golf club, and which is restricted by the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions), is eligible to apply for the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme.","answerHtml":"Sports Clubs are not eligible for the Local Restrictions Support Scheme. The Department of Communities has policy responsibility for sport and it has put in place the Sports Sustainability Fund to provide financial support to sports clubs affiliated to governing bodies recognised by Sport NI. The Sports Sustainability Fund provides tailored support for each organisation by assessing its expenditure, income and losses. This assessment can cover loss of income from the provision of hospitality by the club. Applicants to the Sports Sustainability Fund must declare income from any other Covid related schemes, including LRSS, for consideration in the assessment of their award. Since there would be no net benefit to clubs from applying to both schemes, the appropriate approach was for sports clubs to apply to the Sports Sustainability Fund.
As sports clubs, golf clubs themselves are not eligible for support from the LRSS and should have accessed support from the Sports Sustainability Fund through their recognised governing body.
A business attached or located within a golf club’s premises, such as a shop, bar or restaurant business, which is owned by an operator who is independent of the golf club, and which is restricted by the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions), is eligible to apply for the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013701%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324551"}},{"id":"324209","reference":"AQW 13519/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for an update on the Clean Air Strategy; (ii) how he plans to monitor, assess and take appropriate actions against air pollution; and (iii) whether he has considered a right to breathe policy, to compel local councils or other statutory agencies to inform residents of unsafe levels of air pollution in their area.","answerText":"Former Minister Poots recently launched a twelve week public consultation on The Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document (available at: http://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/clean_air_strategy_discussion_document), developed by my Department, which seeks views on a wide variety of matters relating to air quality. It does not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position at this stage.\n\nAs recommendations and public views are sought through this Discussion Document, my assessment at this stage may influence the view of respondents and I do not wish to pre-empt the outcome of this process. I would, however, like to encourage you to formally respond with your views on a introducing a right to breathe and any other relevant comments you may wish to make, through the formal route using the designated inbox (casni@daera-ni.gov.uk). This will ensure your important comments, are captured as part of the final assessment. All comments will be welcome and will strengthen the consultation process.\n\nDistrict councils have a statutory duty to appropriately monitor, assess and to take action on air pollution under Part III of The Environment Order (NI) 2002.\n\nThe Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) system has been established for councils to fulfil their statutory duties under the Order and assess compliance with objectives in the UK Air Quality Strategy. At locations where objectives are not expected to be met by the relevant target date, district councils are required to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and to develop an Action Plan to address the problem. The Department provides funding to councils under the LAQM grant scheme to carry out monitoring and associated air quality duties.\n\nFurther information is available from our website,\n\nhttps://www.airqualityni.co.uk/laqm\n\nCurrent, real-time pollution levels are available from each district council via our website at: https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/\n\nWith regard to informing residents of unsafe levels of air pollution in their area, you may be interested to know that on 7 May 2020 I launched Northern Ireland’s first Air Quality App. The App gives the public up to date information on air pollution levels across Northern Ireland and a five day air quality forecast. Users can set up a push notification to alert them to when levels of elevated pollutants are detected or forecast. Alerts can be further tailored to specific council districts.\n\nAn air pollution alert text service is also available. Subscribers can receive high or very high air pollution alerts to their mobile phone, providing notification of when air pollution levels are elevated. To subscribe to the 'Air Aware' service, text AIR to 67300. Alerts are free but text messages to the service cost your normal standard rate. A free helpline providing the latest air pollution information in Northern Ireland is available by contacting the helpline telephone number: 0800 556677.\n\nThe public can also access valuable health information through the App on the impacts reduced air quality can have on health, as well as guidance on when to seek medical advice. Health guidance has been developed in partnership with Department of Health officials.\n\nThe Air Quality App, Air Aware text service and free helpline allow people to protect their health using reliable, local air quality data. Further information on this, and a host of other excellent air quality information is available from our website at https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/\n\nand NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/air-pollution-and-health","answerHtml":"Former Minister Poots recently launched a twelve week public consultation on The Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document (available at: http://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/clean_air_strategy_discussion_document), developed by my Department, which seeks views on a wide variety of matters relating to air quality. It does not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position at this stage.
As recommendations and public views are sought through this Discussion Document, my assessment at this stage may influence the view of respondents and I do not wish to pre-empt the outcome of this process. I would, however, like to encourage you to formally respond with your views on a introducing a right to breathe and any other relevant comments you may wish to make, through the formal route using the designated inbox (casni@daera-ni.gov.uk). This will ensure your important comments, are captured as part of the final assessment. All comments will be welcome and will strengthen the consultation process.
District councils have a statutory duty to appropriately monitor, assess and to take action on air pollution under Part III of The Environment Order (NI) 2002.
The Local Air Quality Management (LAQM) system has been established for councils to fulfil their statutory duties under the Order and assess compliance with objectives in the UK Air Quality Strategy. At locations where objectives are not expected to be met by the relevant target date, district councils are required to declare an Air Quality Management Area (AQMA) and to develop an Action Plan to address the problem. The Department provides funding to councils under the LAQM grant scheme to carry out monitoring and associated air quality duties.
Further information is available from our website,
https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/laqm
Current, real-time pollution levels are available from each district council via our website at: https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/
With regard to informing residents of unsafe levels of air pollution in their area, you may be interested to know that on 7 May 2020 I launched Northern Ireland’s first Air Quality App. The App gives the public up to date information on air pollution levels across Northern Ireland and a five day air quality forecast. Users can set up a push notification to alert them to when levels of elevated pollutants are detected or forecast. Alerts can be further tailored to specific council districts.
An air pollution alert text service is also available. Subscribers can receive high or very high air pollution alerts to their mobile phone, providing notification of when air pollution levels are elevated. To subscribe to the 'Air Aware' service, text AIR to 67300. Alerts are free but text messages to the service cost your normal standard rate. A free helpline providing the latest air pollution information in Northern Ireland is available by contacting the helpline telephone number: 0800 556677.
The public can also access valuable health information through the App on the impacts reduced air quality can have on health, as well as guidance on when to seek medical advice. Health guidance has been developed in partnership with Department of Health officials.
The Air Quality App, Air Aware text service and free helpline allow people to protect their health using reliable, local air quality data. Further information on this, and a host of other excellent air quality information is available from our website at https://www.airqualityni.co.uk/
and NI Direct at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/air-pollution-and-health
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013519%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324209"}},{"id":"324208","reference":"AQW 13518/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what support is being given to small businesse,s including health stores, who have to register as an organic importer with an annual certification cost of £1,000 to enable them to continue trading with suppliers in Great Britain.","answerText":"I am aware of additional requirements being placed on local businesses in relation to the import of organic products from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. I oppose these restrictions within the internal UK market, especially if the product is retained for use within the UK. These restrictions cause economic harm to NI Business.\n\nIn relation to support, my officials have been working closely with their counterparts in the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), which is UK Competent Authority for Organics, with the aim of alleviating the difficulties that are arising from the additional checks and administration.\n\nDefra offered the Trader Assistance Scheme, which was open to applications up to 31 December 2020. The Scheme ensures that traders don’t pay tariffs on the movement of goods into NI from GB.\n\nDefra’s Movement Assistance Scheme currently offers support to businesses in relation to plant and animal health certificates. However, Defra’s Organics NI Competent Authority team is actively looking into whether the scheme can also support businesses in relation to the costs associated with organic Certificates of Inspection.\n\nMy Department will consider, in conjunction with Defra and other Ministerial colleagues, if other support or mitigation can be introduced.\n\nI will also be writing to UK Ministers Michael Gove and George Eustice to raise these issues with organic products and seek a timely, pragmatic resolution.","answerHtml":"I am aware of additional requirements being placed on local businesses in relation to the import of organic products from Great Britain to Northern Ireland. I oppose these restrictions within the internal UK market, especially if the product is retained for use within the UK. These restrictions cause economic harm to NI Business.
In relation to support, my officials have been working closely with their counterparts in the Department of the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), which is UK Competent Authority for Organics, with the aim of alleviating the difficulties that are arising from the additional checks and administration.
Defra offered the Trader Assistance Scheme, which was open to applications up to 31 December 2020. The Scheme ensures that traders don’t pay tariffs on the movement of goods into NI from GB.
Defra’s Movement Assistance Scheme currently offers support to businesses in relation to plant and animal health certificates. However, Defra’s Organics NI Competent Authority team is actively looking into whether the scheme can also support businesses in relation to the costs associated with organic Certificates of Inspection.
My Department will consider, in conjunction with Defra and other Ministerial colleagues, if other support or mitigation can be introduced.
I will also be writing to UK Ministers Michael Gove and George Eustice to raise these issues with organic products and seek a timely, pragmatic resolution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013518%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324208"}},{"id":"324207","reference":"AQW 13517/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the impact of restrictions related to COVID-19 on dementia patients within care homes; (ii) how the restrictions are limiting stimulation for these patients; and (iii) how he is supporting care homes to facilitate care partner arrangements.","answerText":"COVID-19 has had a significant impact on care homes residents suffering from dementia. COVID-19 is continuing to change older people’s daily routines, the care and support they receive, their ability to stay socially connected and how they are perceived.\n\nCare home residents with a dementia are often more at risk because of individual vulnerabilities, shared living spaces and the inability to understand changes in their routine or report symptoms.\n\nRestrictions on visiting and reduced opportunities for physical activity outside the care home environment impact on stimulation but reflect the infection risk presented by COVID-19.\n\nTo mitigate this, regional support available to care homes with dementia units includes staffing and financial support where enhanced staffing assists with maintaining residents’ social distancing, regular hand hygiene and provision of individual activity and meaningful occupation.\n\nExtra training and education sessions have also been provided by Trusts to care home staff to allow them to identify, understand and respond to changes in behaviour in people with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes sessions on the importance of activity and meaningful occupation to limit the drop in activities which are unable to take place due to the pandemic.\n\nAdditional written information and handouts relating to managing and communicating with residents during the covid pandemic have also been forwarded to care homes by each Trust.\n\nAll individuals with or without a dementia residing in care homes have individual care and support plans in place which continue to be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure it meets individual assessed need.\n\nIt remains my position that care home visiting and the subsequent implementation of the care partner role is of critical importance to the health and wellbeing of care home residents and in particular those with a dementia.\n\nCare partner contact is in addition to visits to a resident which are organised according to the care home’s visiting policy and the DoH Covid-19 regional principles for visiting.\n\nThe increase to Level 5 visiting restrictions will not prevent care partners from being permitted access to care homes. Care homes are being actively encouraged to adhere to all aspects of the revised visiting guidelines, including the introduction of care partners, and care partner contact can continue providing that visits are aligned with infection prevention and control measures. In addition, my Department is currently undertaking work to facilitate the testing of care partners as part of the care homes staff testing programme.\n\nTrusts will continue to engage with care homes to reinforce the Care Partner message. Key workers are also ensuring in family communications that they are aware of this role and offering support to families to help them set up the role when they identify a need.\n\nThe Care Home Manager is still responsible for permitting visitors into a home on a day to day basis and there may be, of course, circumstances where visiting may be restricted further. In such cases the full visiting guidance should be referred to. As well as Trusts, the HSCB and PHA are working with those homes who are finding implementation more challenging – identifying and sharing good practice.\n\nWe continue to live and work with the threat of Covid-19. While we wait as the vaccination programme is rolled out, it is still important to take measures to minimize risks of spread of infection alongside providing safely managed but meaningful visits for residents with their loved ones.","answerHtml":"COVID-19 has had a significant impact on care homes residents suffering from dementia. COVID-19 is continuing to change older people’s daily routines, the care and support they receive, their ability to stay socially connected and how they are perceived.
Care home residents with a dementia are often more at risk because of individual vulnerabilities, shared living spaces and the inability to understand changes in their routine or report symptoms.
Restrictions on visiting and reduced opportunities for physical activity outside the care home environment impact on stimulation but reflect the infection risk presented by COVID-19.
To mitigate this, regional support available to care homes with dementia units includes staffing and financial support where enhanced staffing assists with maintaining residents’ social distancing, regular hand hygiene and provision of individual activity and meaningful occupation.
Extra training and education sessions have also been provided by Trusts to care home staff to allow them to identify, understand and respond to changes in behaviour in people with dementia during the COVID-19 pandemic. This includes sessions on the importance of activity and meaningful occupation to limit the drop in activities which are unable to take place due to the pandemic.
Additional written information and handouts relating to managing and communicating with residents during the covid pandemic have also been forwarded to care homes by each Trust.
All individuals with or without a dementia residing in care homes have individual care and support plans in place which continue to be reviewed on a regular basis to ensure it meets individual assessed need.
It remains my position that care home visiting and the subsequent implementation of the care partner role is of critical importance to the health and wellbeing of care home residents and in particular those with a dementia.
Care partner contact is in addition to visits to a resident which are organised according to the care home’s visiting policy and the DoH Covid-19 regional principles for visiting.
The increase to Level 5 visiting restrictions will not prevent care partners from being permitted access to care homes. Care homes are being actively encouraged to adhere to all aspects of the revised visiting guidelines, including the introduction of care partners, and care partner contact can continue providing that visits are aligned with infection prevention and control measures. In addition, my Department is currently undertaking work to facilitate the testing of care partners as part of the care homes staff testing programme.
Trusts will continue to engage with care homes to reinforce the Care Partner message. Key workers are also ensuring in family communications that they are aware of this role and offering support to families to help them set up the role when they identify a need.
The Care Home Manager is still responsible for permitting visitors into a home on a day to day basis and there may be, of course, circumstances where visiting may be restricted further. In such cases the full visiting guidance should be referred to. As well as Trusts, the HSCB and PHA are working with those homes who are finding implementation more challenging – identifying and sharing good practice.
We continue to live and work with the threat of Covid-19. While we wait as the vaccination programme is rolled out, it is still important to take measures to minimize risks of spread of infection alongside providing safely managed but meaningful visits for residents with their loved ones.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013517%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324207"}},{"id":"324206","reference":"AQW 13516/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2022-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the New Decade, New Approach commitment to provide three funded IVF cycles for eligible women; (ii) how he is increasing capacity at the Regional Fertility Centre to meet the demand of additional treatments; (iii) whether he has made a bid for additional funding to fulfil this commitment; and (iv) for his assessment of delaying treatment for eligible women.","answerText":"I released a press statement on 1 November 2021 which includes an update on the work of the NDNA IVF Project Board to implement this commitment. The press release can be found in full at:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-praises-commitment-staff-regional-fertility-centre","answerHtml":"I released a press statement on 1 November 2021 which includes an update on the work of the NDNA IVF Project Board to implement this commitment. The press release can be found in full at:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/news/health-minister-praises-commitment-staff-regional-fertility-centre
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013516%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324206","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324206"}},{"id":"324205","reference":"AQW 13515/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-27","answerBy":"2021-02-11","answered":"2021-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether he will advocate for childcare and early years providers, including childminders, as a priority group for the COVID-19 vaccinations programmes; and (ii) how he is supporting these providers to make their facilities safe using appropriate personal protective equipment and other measures.","answerText":"As you can appreciate the prioritisation of the rollout of the vaccine is carried out at a UK level by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). Northern Ireland, along with the other Devolved Administrations, will adhere to the JCVI advice on prioritisation of the vaccine.\n\nJCVI have advised that “the first priorities for any COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of COVID-19 mortality and the protection of health and social care staff and systems. Secondary priorities could include vaccination of those at increased risk of hospitalisation and at increased risk of exposure, and to maintain resilience in essential public services.”\n\nPhase 1 of the programme will therefore offer vaccination to care home residents and staff, frontline health and social care workers, and those 80 years of age and over.\n\nJVCI indicated on 6 January that they are considering under the next priority phase of vaccinations, those at increased risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 due to their occupation and this would include teachers.\n\nPrior to this I had written to the Health Minister in December to request that teachers, school staff and childcare workers are prioritised for vaccination as soon as is practicable and I have submitted a paper to The Executive seeking priority in general for childcare/education staff/ teachers.\n\nGuidance for Schools and Educational settings is available and is constantly under review. It will be updated as needed as my officials continue to liaise with Public Health colleagues to ensure the most current, best practice advice is disseminated to all schools. I announced additional measures before Christmas which included face coverings for all post primary pupils in classrooms, improved signage at school gates and further messaging around face coverings on school transport.\n\nEA Procurement have put in place a number of contractual arrangements for the provision of PPE and COVID-19 related requisites. Schools have been advised that they should contact the EA for any requirements they may have.","answerHtml":"As you can appreciate the prioritisation of the rollout of the vaccine is carried out at a UK level by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI). Northern Ireland, along with the other Devolved Administrations, will adhere to the JCVI advice on prioritisation of the vaccine.
JCVI have advised that “the first priorities for any COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of COVID-19 mortality and the protection of health and social care staff and systems. Secondary priorities could include vaccination of those at increased risk of hospitalisation and at increased risk of exposure, and to maintain resilience in essential public services.”
Phase 1 of the programme will therefore offer vaccination to care home residents and staff, frontline health and social care workers, and those 80 years of age and over.
JVCI indicated on 6 January that they are considering under the next priority phase of vaccinations, those at increased risk of exposure to SARS-CoV-2 due to their occupation and this would include teachers.
Prior to this I had written to the Health Minister in December to request that teachers, school staff and childcare workers are prioritised for vaccination as soon as is practicable and I have submitted a paper to The Executive seeking priority in general for childcare/education staff/ teachers.
Guidance for Schools and Educational settings is available and is constantly under review. It will be updated as needed as my officials continue to liaise with Public Health colleagues to ensure the most current, best practice advice is disseminated to all schools. I announced additional measures before Christmas which included face coverings for all post primary pupils in classrooms, improved signage at school gates and further messaging around face coverings on school transport.
EA Procurement have put in place a number of contractual arrangements for the provision of PPE and COVID-19 related requisites. Schools have been advised that they should contact the EA for any requirements they may have.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013515%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=324205","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=324205"}},{"id":"323965","reference":"AQW 13412/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the (i) types of businesses; and (ii) self-employed people who are ineligible for financial supports related to the COVID-19 pandemic provided by the UK Government and the NI Executive to date.","answerText":"My Department has provided over £380 million of lifeline support to local businesses and is currently delivering grant support to businesses across all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland. The Executive is committed to delivering support to as wide a range of businesses as possible.\n\nGrant support schemes remain open to businesses and self –employed individuals and details of the eligibility criteria can be found on the NI Business Info website at www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk. I would encourage any business or self-employed individual who believe they meet the eligibility criteria to make an application as soon as possible.\n\nWhilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for specific targeted support, it is simply not possible to design and fund schemes for every type of business or employment across our society.","answerHtml":"My Department has provided over £380 million of lifeline support to local businesses and is currently delivering grant support to businesses across all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland. The Executive is committed to delivering support to as wide a range of businesses as possible.
Grant support schemes remain open to businesses and self –employed individuals and details of the eligibility criteria can be found on the NI Business Info website at www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk. I would encourage any business or self-employed individual who believe they meet the eligibility criteria to make an application as soon as possible.
Whilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for specific targeted support, it is simply not possible to design and fund schemes for every type of business or employment across our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013412%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323965","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323965"}},{"id":"323964","reference":"AQW 13411/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for an update on allowing businesses to provide a click and collect service under the current restrictions related to COVID-19.","answerText":"The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restriction) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 currently do not allow for the provision of a click and collect service by non-essential retailers. However following an Executive meeting on 18th February it was agreed to allow contactless ‘click and collect’ services for baby equipment shops, clothing shops, footwear shops and electrical goods shops from Monday the 8th of March 2021.\n\nDepartment of Health Officials are currently updating the regulations and guidance document to reflect these changes. The extant Regulations can be found here Guidance to accompany The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)\n\nMy officials continue to liaise with both the Department for Health and the Executive Office on this matter.","answerHtml":"The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restriction) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 currently do not allow for the provision of a click and collect service by non-essential retailers. However following an Executive meeting on 18th February it was agreed to allow contactless ‘click and collect’ services for baby equipment shops, clothing shops, footwear shops and electrical goods shops from Monday the 8th of March 2021.
Department of Health Officials are currently updating the regulations and guidance document to reflect these changes. The extant Regulations can be found here Guidance to accompany The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2021 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)
My officials continue to liaise with both the Department for Health and the Executive Office on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013411%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323964"}},{"id":"323963","reference":"AQW 13410/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has any plans to introduce a top-up grant scheme of up to £9,000 for retail, hospitality and leisure businesses in Northern Ireland, comparable to the scheme in Great Britain announced by the Chancellor on 5 January 2021.","answerText":"I can confirm that the scheme announced by the Chancellor is for England only, as these schemes are devolved there is no obligation to replicate the English scheme in Northern Ireland. However, the Department for the Economy, has developed a number of new schemes recently and will be presenting further options to the Executive which will address the issues faced by businesses in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department has delivered £350m of lifeline support to the Northern Ireland economy, and is in the process of delivering another £200m of essential support to businesses in NI.\n\nThis is an extremely difficult and challenging time for businesses, individuals and our economy in general, and the Executive will continue to do all that it can to protect both lives and livelihoods. This is a very live and fluid situation and I would encourage everyone to continue to monitor the websites below, and to listen for any future announcements through the various media outlets.\n\nFurther details can be found or will be published on the NI Business Info website, whilst new financial packages of support announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer will appear on the UK Coronavirus Business support site. I have included a link to both for your information:\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/campaign/coronavirus-updates-support-your-business\n\nhttps://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support","answerHtml":"I can confirm that the scheme announced by the Chancellor is for England only, as these schemes are devolved there is no obligation to replicate the English scheme in Northern Ireland. However, the Department for the Economy, has developed a number of new schemes recently and will be presenting further options to the Executive which will address the issues faced by businesses in Northern Ireland.
The Department has delivered £350m of lifeline support to the Northern Ireland economy, and is in the process of delivering another £200m of essential support to businesses in NI.
This is an extremely difficult and challenging time for businesses, individuals and our economy in general, and the Executive will continue to do all that it can to protect both lives and livelihoods. This is a very live and fluid situation and I would encourage everyone to continue to monitor the websites below, and to listen for any future announcements through the various media outlets.
Further details can be found or will be published on the NI Business Info website, whilst new financial packages of support announced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer will appear on the UK Coronavirus Business support site. I have included a link to both for your information:
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/campaign/coronavirus-updates-support-your-business
https://www.gov.uk/coronavirus/business-support
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013410%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323963"}},{"id":"323962","reference":"AQW 13409/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has any plans to introduce further financial support for businesses allowed to open as essential retail and services, but have lost income due to current restrictions related to COVID-19.","answerText":"The Executive and the UK Government have introduced a wide range of business support schemes to help ease the extraordinary burden that has been placed on entire communities and our local economy, due to the ongoing global pandemic.\n\nTo date, my Department has provided over £370 million of support to over 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of pounds to thousands more through the recent schemes that have been developed and implemented. The combination of these schemes have provided support to all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nI am on record as stating that whilst the ‘stay at home message’ has been absolutely necessary, it has had a damaging impact on our town and city centres and our local high streets. Beyond the current restriction period, I believe that the best way to support these businesses is to negate the cycle of severe restrictions which will inevitably cost jobs and businesses.\n\nWith the roll-out of a vaccination programme, there is cause for optimism as we look towards a return to some form of social and economic normality, and government support can them be targeted at helping businesses to be able to operate safely, with as little interruption as possible.\n\nWhilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for specific targeted support, it is simply not possible to design and fund schemes for every type of business or employment across our society.","answerHtml":"The Executive and the UK Government have introduced a wide range of business support schemes to help ease the extraordinary burden that has been placed on entire communities and our local economy, due to the ongoing global pandemic.
To date, my Department has provided over £370 million of support to over 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of pounds to thousands more through the recent schemes that have been developed and implemented. The combination of these schemes have provided support to all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland.
I am on record as stating that whilst the ‘stay at home message’ has been absolutely necessary, it has had a damaging impact on our town and city centres and our local high streets. Beyond the current restriction period, I believe that the best way to support these businesses is to negate the cycle of severe restrictions which will inevitably cost jobs and businesses.
With the roll-out of a vaccination programme, there is cause for optimism as we look towards a return to some form of social and economic normality, and government support can them be targeted at helping businesses to be able to operate safely, with as little interruption as possible.
Whilst the Executive and my own Department continue to receive calls for specific targeted support, it is simply not possible to design and fund schemes for every type of business or employment across our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013409%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323962","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323962"}},{"id":"323961","reference":"AQW 13408/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-26","answerBy":"2021-02-10","answered":"2021-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the Kickstart Scheme she is developing for Northern Ireland; and how her Department’s scheme differs to the Kickstart Scheme in Great Britain.","answerText":"The JobStart Scheme will help young people (16 – 24 year olds) at risk of long term unemployment get into the job market by providing government funding for employers to create six-month job opportunities with nine-month opportunities available for those young people who would benefit from having a longer period of time to settle into the job opportunity, and to allow adequate time for reasonable adjustments to be addressed.\n\nThe eligibility criteria for the JobStart Scheme includes any young person aged 16-24 on a working age benefit who is work ready, as well as those leaving care, those with disabilities and returning citizens who are ready for work.\n\nKey Differences between Kickstart and JobStart\n\nWhen Kickstart launched, employers could only submit a bid for funding if they were creating 30 or more jobs. This would have proved difficult to implement here as we have a higher proportion of small businesses. My Department’s intention has always been for employers to approach the Department for funding from the JobStart Scheme even if they wish to create just one opportunity.\n\nGateway organisations who act on behalf of small organisations receive funding of up to £9,000 per batch of 30 jobs from DWP. As my Department will not be using Gateway Organisations to ‘batch jobs’, our approach will save money for the taxpayer and make more funds available to help our young people.\n\nKickstart is limited to Universal Credit claimants whereas JobStart has been opened up to a wider group of young people including those on Job Seekers Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance and Income Support legacy benefits and those young people who fall into the ‘Not In Education, Employment or Training’ (NEET) category.\n\nI have also given permission for the JobStart scheme to be extended from 6 months to 9 months for those with disabilities to allow these young people a longer period to settle into the job opportunity, and adequate time for reasonable adjustments to be addressed.","answerHtml":"The JobStart Scheme will help young people (16 – 24 year olds) at risk of long term unemployment get into the job market by providing government funding for employers to create six-month job opportunities with nine-month opportunities available for those young people who would benefit from having a longer period of time to settle into the job opportunity, and to allow adequate time for reasonable adjustments to be addressed.
The eligibility criteria for the JobStart Scheme includes any young person aged 16-24 on a working age benefit who is work ready, as well as those leaving care, those with disabilities and returning citizens who are ready for work.
Key Differences between Kickstart and JobStart
When Kickstart launched, employers could only submit a bid for funding if they were creating 30 or more jobs. This would have proved difficult to implement here as we have a higher proportion of small businesses. My Department’s intention has always been for employers to approach the Department for funding from the JobStart Scheme even if they wish to create just one opportunity.
Gateway organisations who act on behalf of small organisations receive funding of up to £9,000 per batch of 30 jobs from DWP. As my Department will not be using Gateway Organisations to ‘batch jobs’, our approach will save money for the taxpayer and make more funds available to help our young people.
Kickstart is limited to Universal Credit claimants whereas JobStart has been opened up to a wider group of young people including those on Job Seekers Allowance, Employment and Support Allowance and Income Support legacy benefits and those young people who fall into the ‘Not In Education, Employment or Training’ (NEET) category.
I have also given permission for the JobStart scheme to be extended from 6 months to 9 months for those with disabilities to allow these young people a longer period to settle into the job opportunity, and adequate time for reasonable adjustments to be addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013408%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323961","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323961"}},{"id":"323747","reference":"AQW 13293/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-25","answerBy":"2021-02-09","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what financial and childcare support exists for single mothers residing outside of neighbourhood renewal areas who are unable to work due to maternity-related illness.","answerText":"Where single mothers are unable to work due to maternity-related illness, they may be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from their employer where they meet the qualifying conditions. SSP is paid from the fourth day of sickness for absences not related to COVID-19 at £95.85 per week for up to 28 weeks in any one period of entitlement. Some employers may decide to pay more, or for longer, through Occupational Sick Pay.\n\nThose who are not eligible for SSP and the self-employed may be eligible for new style Employment and Support Allowance, depending on their personal circumstances.\n\nIn addition, where the person’s income is reduced while off work sick and they require further financial support, they may be able to receive Universal Credit, depending on individual circumstances.\n\nWhere a person receives both SSP and Universal Credit, SSP will be taken into account when calculating the Universal Credit payment. Also, where a person receives new style Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit, new style Employment and Support Allowance will be taken into account when calculating the Universal Credit payment.\n\nFinancial support towards the costs of childcare is available through Universal Credit, Tax Credits, Tax-Free Childcare or Childcare Vouchers (if the parent is already in the Scheme).\n\nUniversal Credit pays up to 85% of childcare costs up to a monthly limit of £646.35 for one child or £1108.04 for 2 or more children subject to satisfying the eligibility criteria. Under Universal Credit childcare costs in payment before the period of sickness, will continue to be paid for an existing childcare place while the parent is receiving SSP: they will be treated as in paid work whilst not working.\n\nFor those in receipt of Tax Credits administered by HMRC, up to 70% of eligible childcare costs are provided through the childcare element of Working Tax Credit. The childcare element can be payable for the first 28 weeks off sick.\n\nRelevant information is available on the Employers for Childcare website, who offer a very useful Family Benefits Advice Service. This service can offer parents tailored advice on the best form of financial support with childcare costs. Employers for Childcare can be contacted on 0800 028 3008 or by accessing the website on https://www.employersforchildcare.org/parents/family-benefits-advice-service/.\n\nAdvice and support for parents on finding a suitable childcare place, and the financial support available, can also be accessed on the Family Support NI website at the following link: https://www.familysupportni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"Where single mothers are unable to work due to maternity-related illness, they may be eligible for Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) from their employer where they meet the qualifying conditions. SSP is paid from the fourth day of sickness for absences not related to COVID-19 at £95.85 per week for up to 28 weeks in any one period of entitlement. Some employers may decide to pay more, or for longer, through Occupational Sick Pay.
Those who are not eligible for SSP and the self-employed may be eligible for new style Employment and Support Allowance, depending on their personal circumstances.
In addition, where the person’s income is reduced while off work sick and they require further financial support, they may be able to receive Universal Credit, depending on individual circumstances.
Where a person receives both SSP and Universal Credit, SSP will be taken into account when calculating the Universal Credit payment. Also, where a person receives new style Employment and Support Allowance and Universal Credit, new style Employment and Support Allowance will be taken into account when calculating the Universal Credit payment.
Financial support towards the costs of childcare is available through Universal Credit, Tax Credits, Tax-Free Childcare or Childcare Vouchers (if the parent is already in the Scheme).
Universal Credit pays up to 85% of childcare costs up to a monthly limit of £646.35 for one child or £1108.04 for 2 or more children subject to satisfying the eligibility criteria. Under Universal Credit childcare costs in payment before the period of sickness, will continue to be paid for an existing childcare place while the parent is receiving SSP: they will be treated as in paid work whilst not working.
For those in receipt of Tax Credits administered by HMRC, up to 70% of eligible childcare costs are provided through the childcare element of Working Tax Credit. The childcare element can be payable for the first 28 weeks off sick.
Relevant information is available on the Employers for Childcare website, who offer a very useful Family Benefits Advice Service. This service can offer parents tailored advice on the best form of financial support with childcare costs. Employers for Childcare can be contacted on 0800 028 3008 or by accessing the website on https://www.employersforchildcare.org/parents/family-benefits-advice-service/.
Advice and support for parents on finding a suitable childcare place, and the financial support available, can also be accessed on the Family Support NI website at the following link: https://www.familysupportni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013293%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323747","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323747"}},{"id":"323746","reference":"AQW 13292/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-25","answerBy":"2021-02-09","answered":"2021-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has any plans to review access to services provided to those living in neighbourhood renewal areas, given that many families in receipt of welfare live outside these areas and cannot access services such as SureStart and Early Years Education.","answerText":"The Department is developing an Anti-Poverty Strategy that aims to address inequalities directly affecting the everyday lives of the most vulnerable people in society and will bring focus to identifying and addressing the issues, barriers and disadvantages that undermine equality of opportunity. This work is being undertaken using a co-design approach, with involvement from stakeholders at all stages of the process. This will help ensure that actions arising from the Strategy will impact all those who are most in need of support. It is planned that the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be published in December 2021 subject to Executive approval\n\nAccess to Sure Start and Early Years Education programmes is a matter for the Minister for Education.","answerHtml":"The Department is developing an Anti-Poverty Strategy that aims to address inequalities directly affecting the everyday lives of the most vulnerable people in society and will bring focus to identifying and addressing the issues, barriers and disadvantages that undermine equality of opportunity. This work is being undertaken using a co-design approach, with involvement from stakeholders at all stages of the process. This will help ensure that actions arising from the Strategy will impact all those who are most in need of support. It is planned that the Anti-Poverty Strategy will be published in December 2021 subject to Executive approval
Access to Sure Start and Early Years Education programmes is a matter for the Minister for Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013292%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323746","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323746"}},{"id":"323745","reference":"AQW 13291/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-25","answerBy":"2021-02-09","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she has any plans to provide financial support for higher education students who continue to pay rent and other costs related to their studies, while unable to attend due to restrictions related to COVID-19.","answerText":"I am acutely aware that students in local higher education institutions have experienced significant disruption since the onset of the pandemic and that this continues to have an impact. In response I have brought forward a £37.7 million financial support package for students and the higher education sector, which I announced on 4 February 2021. The package includes:\n\n A one-off discretionary payment of £500 to all students from the UK and EU who are in full time higher education in Northern Ireland, whether that is in a university or further education college setting\n\n £8.5million to address student financial hardship, digital poverty and to support student unions with mental health provision;\n\n £4.1million for the provision of a safe working, learning and research environment; and\n\n £3.1million to compensate universities for lost income arising from rental pauses and releasing students from accommodation contracts.\n\nI have listened to the many concerns raised with me by students, their representative bodies, family members, educators and institutions and will continue to do all I can to help them regain the learning experience they deserve.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware that students in local higher education institutions have experienced significant disruption since the onset of the pandemic and that this continues to have an impact. In response I have brought forward a £37.7 million financial support package for students and the higher education sector, which I announced on 4 February 2021. The package includes:
A one-off discretionary payment of £500 to all students from the UK and EU who are in full time higher education in Northern Ireland, whether that is in a university or further education college setting
£8.5million to address student financial hardship, digital poverty and to support student unions with mental health provision;
£4.1million for the provision of a safe working, learning and research environment; and
£3.1million to compensate universities for lost income arising from rental pauses and releasing students from accommodation contracts.
I have listened to the many concerns raised with me by students, their representative bodies, family members, educators and institutions and will continue to do all I can to help them regain the learning experience they deserve.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013291%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323745","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323745"}},{"id":"323744","reference":"AQW 13290/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-25","answerBy":"2021-02-09","answered":"2021-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for her assessment of students currently paying full university fees when their access to higher education has been limited due to restrictions related to COVID-19.","answerText":"Higher Education is a devolved matter and my Department is responsible only for determining the annual maximum tuition fee level that can be charged by higher education institutions in Northern Ireland. It is a decision for the higher education institutions to determine what they wish to charge Northern Ireland and EU domiciled students, up to that maximum level.\n\nHowever, I have written to Northern Ireland’s universities, on behalf of students, asking them to review their compliance with consumer law and provide assurance that, in implementing their response to the Covid-19 pandemic, they have given due regard to relevant consumer protection law.\n\nInstitutions must be clear with new and returning students about how teaching and assessment will be delivered and the circumstances in which changes might be necessary. I have therefore asked the higher education institutions to:\n\nconfirm that they have been, and will continue to be, sufficiently clear with new and continuing students about how teaching and assessment is delivered, the circumstances in which changes might be made, and what those changes might entail;\n\nconfirm that, in their assessment, students received, during the autumn term, the teaching and assessment they were promised and might reasonably have expected to receive based on the information provided; and\n\nconfirm whether their current plans for the spring and summer terms will ensure that students receive the teaching and assessment they were promised and might reasonably expect to receive based on the information provided.\n\nIf new or returning students were not provided with sufficiently clear information about how teaching and assessment would be delivered in 2020-21, or that teaching and assessment were not delivered as promised, I will expect the institutions to actively consider their obligations under consumer law for tuition fee refunds or other forms of redress.","answerHtml":"Higher Education is a devolved matter and my Department is responsible only for determining the annual maximum tuition fee level that can be charged by higher education institutions in Northern Ireland. It is a decision for the higher education institutions to determine what they wish to charge Northern Ireland and EU domiciled students, up to that maximum level.
However, I have written to Northern Ireland’s universities, on behalf of students, asking them to review their compliance with consumer law and provide assurance that, in implementing their response to the Covid-19 pandemic, they have given due regard to relevant consumer protection law.
Institutions must be clear with new and returning students about how teaching and assessment will be delivered and the circumstances in which changes might be necessary. I have therefore asked the higher education institutions to:
confirm that they have been, and will continue to be, sufficiently clear with new and continuing students about how teaching and assessment is delivered, the circumstances in which changes might be made, and what those changes might entail;
confirm that, in their assessment, students received, during the autumn term, the teaching and assessment they were promised and might reasonably have expected to receive based on the information provided; and
confirm whether their current plans for the spring and summer terms will ensure that students receive the teaching and assessment they were promised and might reasonably expect to receive based on the information provided.
If new or returning students were not provided with sufficiently clear information about how teaching and assessment would be delivered in 2020-21, or that teaching and assessment were not delivered as promised, I will expect the institutions to actively consider their obligations under consumer law for tuition fee refunds or other forms of redress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013290%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323744","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323744"}},{"id":"323743","reference":"AQW 13289/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-25","answerBy":"2021-02-09","answered":"2021-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 12387/17-22, why special units within mainstream schools are not allowed to open under current restrictions.","answerText":"The opening of special units attached to mainstream schools is an operational matter for the school.\n\nThe Education Authority has advised schools (guidance issued on 8 January) that where a number of children from a Learning Support Class are attending school, the school should work to maintain their routine environment.","answerHtml":"The opening of special units attached to mainstream schools is an operational matter for the school.
The Education Authority has advised schools (guidance issued on 8 January) that where a number of children from a Learning Support Class are attending school, the school should work to maintain their routine environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2013289%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=323743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=323743"}},{"id":"322099","reference":"AQW 12608/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-13","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether residents in assisted living accommodation will be prioritised for the COVID-19 vaccine.","answerText":"For assisted-living accommodation where Trusts have assessed the residents to be at similar level of risk as Care Home residents, they will be visited by the Trust’s Mobile Vaccination Teams and offered the COVID-19 vaccine.\n\nFor the remaining assisted-living accommodation locations, residents will be invited to receive the vaccine based on their age cohort/individual clinical risk, as recommended by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).\n\nBased on the vaccine that should be available by late January and throughout February, we are confident we will see rapid progress through the first 4 priority groups - care home residents and staff, the over 80s, HSCWs, those aged 70 years and over, as well as those who are clinically extremely vulnerable. Many of the residents of assisted-living accommodation sites will fall into one of these 4 priority groups.","answerHtml":"For assisted-living accommodation where Trusts have assessed the residents to be at similar level of risk as Care Home residents, they will be visited by the Trust’s Mobile Vaccination Teams and offered the COVID-19 vaccine.
For the remaining assisted-living accommodation locations, residents will be invited to receive the vaccine based on their age cohort/individual clinical risk, as recommended by the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI).
Based on the vaccine that should be available by late January and throughout February, we are confident we will see rapid progress through the first 4 priority groups - care home residents and staff, the over 80s, HSCWs, those aged 70 years and over, as well as those who are clinically extremely vulnerable. Many of the residents of assisted-living accommodation sites will fall into one of these 4 priority groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012608%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322099","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322099"}},{"id":"322098","reference":"AQW 12607/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-13","answerBy":"2021-01-28","answered":"2021-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) how she is supporting personnel within the Northern Ireland Prison Service if they are unable to work due to childcare or other issues related to COVID-19; and (ii) whether they are entitled to contractual sick pay.","answerText":"As members of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, prison officers are subject to the NICS Handbook and the COVID-19 related guidance currently in place.\n\nThere are a range of measures currently in place to support staff who may have difficulty in finding suitable alternative childcare arrangements during the pandemic. For example they can apply for annual leave, paid special leave and/or unpaid leave or a change to their working pattern. This may include a temporary arrangement where they may be facilitated with the opportunity to make a change to their current shift pattern. It should also be noted that as essential workers, prison staff with school age children are still able to send them to school. Regarding pre-school children childminders and nurseries are still open.\n\nThe NICS Handbook sets out the rules on entitlement to sick pay and the rates.","answerHtml":"As members of the Northern Ireland Civil Service, prison officers are subject to the NICS Handbook and the COVID-19 related guidance currently in place.
There are a range of measures currently in place to support staff who may have difficulty in finding suitable alternative childcare arrangements during the pandemic. For example they can apply for annual leave, paid special leave and/or unpaid leave or a change to their working pattern. This may include a temporary arrangement where they may be facilitated with the opportunity to make a change to their current shift pattern. It should also be noted that as essential workers, prison staff with school age children are still able to send them to school. Regarding pre-school children childminders and nurseries are still open.
The NICS Handbook sets out the rules on entitlement to sick pay and the rates.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012607%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322098"}},{"id":"322097","reference":"AQW 12606/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-13","answerBy":"2021-01-28","answered":"2021-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans for administering the COVID-19 programme in the community including in pharmacies, dental practices and other professions already trained due to the nature of their work.","answerText":"The model for vaccine deployment has been designed to be pragmatic, agile and flexible, and has involved collaborative working across the Health and Social Care system in conjunction with our wider stakeholders and partners.\n\nTeams of vaccinators have been trained from a range of professional backgrounds including Pharmacists, Nurses, Dentists and Allied Health Professionals in addition to extant HSC staff and primary care staff.\n\nThe vaccination programme involves a mixture of delivery models and these will include: mobile teams for care home residents and staff as well as support for district nursing for house bound patients; Enhanced Trust Occupational Health staff teams for the mass vaccination of staff; and a GP based programme which will see GPs operating in cluster formation vaccination sites with additional support.","answerHtml":"The model for vaccine deployment has been designed to be pragmatic, agile and flexible, and has involved collaborative working across the Health and Social Care system in conjunction with our wider stakeholders and partners.
Teams of vaccinators have been trained from a range of professional backgrounds including Pharmacists, Nurses, Dentists and Allied Health Professionals in addition to extant HSC staff and primary care staff.
The vaccination programme involves a mixture of delivery models and these will include: mobile teams for care home residents and staff as well as support for district nursing for house bound patients; Enhanced Trust Occupational Health staff teams for the mass vaccination of staff; and a GP based programme which will see GPs operating in cluster formation vaccination sites with additional support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012606%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322097"}},{"id":"322096","reference":"AQW 12605/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-13","answerBy":"2021-01-28","answered":"2021-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to administer the COVID-19 vaccination programme for those who are unable to leave their homes due to mobility or other medical reasons.","answerText":"Plans have been implemented for District Nurses to call with housebound patients, with the support of Trust mobile units and GPs. Up to and including 21st February 4,486 housebound patients had been vaccinated.","answerHtml":"Plans have been implemented for District Nurses to call with housebound patients, with the support of Trust mobile units and GPs. Up to and including 21st February 4,486 housebound patients had been vaccinated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012605%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322096"}},{"id":"322095","reference":"AQW 12604/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2021-01-13","answerBy":"2021-01-28","answered":"2021-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to submit a business case to prioritise key workers (i) in essential retail; (ii) living in rural areas; (iii) in private residential and care homes; and (iv) with underlying medical conditions, within the COVID-19 vaccination programme.","answerText":"Vaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers. JCVI have not recommended occupational prioritisation other than Health & Social Care Workers at Priority Group 2. The rate limiting factor for deployment of the vaccine is the availability of vaccines. The purpose of this approach is to save as many lives as possible with the available vaccine.\n\nRetail workers and those living rurally will be vaccinated in line with priority group they belong to as outlined by JCVI and in the published vaccination plan. Care home workers were vaccinated as part of priority group 1. Those people with underlying medical conditions which render them clinically extremely vulnerable are being vaccinated as part of priority group 4 and those clinically vulnerable will be vaccinated as part of priority group 6.","answerHtml":"Vaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers. JCVI have not recommended occupational prioritisation other than Health & Social Care Workers at Priority Group 2. The rate limiting factor for deployment of the vaccine is the availability of vaccines. The purpose of this approach is to save as many lives as possible with the available vaccine.
Retail workers and those living rurally will be vaccinated in line with priority group they belong to as outlined by JCVI and in the published vaccination plan. Care home workers were vaccinated as part of priority group 1. Those people with underlying medical conditions which render them clinically extremely vulnerable are being vaccinated as part of priority group 4 and those clinically vulnerable will be vaccinated as part of priority group 6.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012604%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322095"}},{"id":"321032","reference":"AQW 12387/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-06","answered":"2021-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether special educational needs units within primary and post-primary schools will reopen from 4 January 2021.","answerText":"My Assembly Statement to the Ad Hoc Committee on 6 January 2021, https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/statement-education-minister-ad-hoc-committee-1, sets out clearly that all schools are to remain open to vulnerable children and young people, and children of key workers, for access to supervised learning.\n\nThe definition of Vulnerable Children and Young People includes, amongst others, all children with statements of Special Educational Needs.\n\nWhere there are Special Units attached to a school, these will not be open for normal teaching and learning, however, vulnerable or key worker children can still attend the school for supervised learning.","answerHtml":"My Assembly Statement to the Ad Hoc Committee on 6 January 2021, https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/statement-education-minister-ad-hoc-committee-1, sets out clearly that all schools are to remain open to vulnerable children and young people, and children of key workers, for access to supervised learning.
The definition of Vulnerable Children and Young People includes, amongst others, all children with statements of Special Educational Needs.
Where there are Special Units attached to a school, these will not be open for normal teaching and learning, however, vulnerable or key worker children can still attend the school for supervised learning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012387%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321032"}},{"id":"321031","reference":"AQW 12386/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the plans for teaching and training within further education colleges from 4 January 2021.","answerText":"On 17 December 2020, the Northern Ireland (NI) Executive announced a six week lockdown, to come into operation on 26 December 2020. During this period colleges must deliver distance learning to the maximum extent possible. Only essential face-to-face learning should take place when it is a necessary and unavoidable part of the course. Learners and staff will be permitted on-site to undertake assessments and examinations. This position will be kept under review in line with NI Executive decisions.","answerHtml":"On 17 December 2020, the Northern Ireland (NI) Executive announced a six week lockdown, to come into operation on 26 December 2020. During this period colleges must deliver distance learning to the maximum extent possible. Only essential face-to-face learning should take place when it is a necessary and unavoidable part of the course. Learners and staff will be permitted on-site to undertake assessments and examinations. This position will be kept under review in line with NI Executive decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012386%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321031","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321031"}},{"id":"321030","reference":"AQW 12385/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, further to his statement on 31 December 2021, to detail his plans for school meals during January 2021.","answerText":"I announced on 5 January 2021 (https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/weir-sets-out-plans-education-provision) that pre-school, primary and post primary schools will be required to provide remote learning to pupils until the half term break in mid-February. Schools will remain open to children of key workers and vulnerable children and Special schools will remain open as usual.\n\nDirect payments in lieu of free school meals will be made to families whose children are entitled to free school meals and are learning remotely from home. Children attending school, such as key workers’ children and vulnerable children, should bring a packed lunch to school. School meals services will be available in Special schools and pupils entitled to free school meals attending Special schools will receive free school meals at school as normal.","answerHtml":"I announced on 5 January 2021 (https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news/weir-sets-out-plans-education-provision) that pre-school, primary and post primary schools will be required to provide remote learning to pupils until the half term break in mid-February. Schools will remain open to children of key workers and vulnerable children and Special schools will remain open as usual.
Direct payments in lieu of free school meals will be made to families whose children are entitled to free school meals and are learning remotely from home. Children attending school, such as key workers’ children and vulnerable children, should bring a packed lunch to school. School meals services will be available in Special schools and pupils entitled to free school meals attending Special schools will receive free school meals at school as normal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012385%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321030"}},{"id":"321029","reference":"AQW 12384/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) whether he has any plans to facilitate post-primary transfer tests in the primary schools of children sitting the tests; and (ii) how he will support primary schools if this is an option.","answerText":"You will be aware the Post Primary Test Consortium announced that it has cancelled the GL assessment for this year. AQE Ltd also announced that it has cancelled its January tests and instead proposes to run a single test on 27 February subject to the public health advice which applies at that time.\n\nThere is no bar which would prevent primary schools from hosting the tests but this is a matter for individual schools.\n\nMy preference is for primary schools to host the transfer tests and indeed in 2016 I removed the instruction that had previously prevented this from happening. However, any move away from the current arrangements would require the consent of all primary schools and I cannot compel them to agree to this. However, I would urge the test providers, Principals and Boards of Governors to work together with parents and pupils to seek agreement on how this could facilitated in future years.","answerHtml":"You will be aware the Post Primary Test Consortium announced that it has cancelled the GL assessment for this year. AQE Ltd also announced that it has cancelled its January tests and instead proposes to run a single test on 27 February subject to the public health advice which applies at that time.
There is no bar which would prevent primary schools from hosting the tests but this is a matter for individual schools.
My preference is for primary schools to host the transfer tests and indeed in 2016 I removed the instruction that had previously prevented this from happening. However, any move away from the current arrangements would require the consent of all primary schools and I cannot compel them to agree to this. However, I would urge the test providers, Principals and Boards of Governors to work together with parents and pupils to seek agreement on how this could facilitated in future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012384%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321029"}},{"id":"321028","reference":"AQW 12383/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-31","answerBy":"2021-01-18","answered":"2021-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, further to his statement on 31 December 2020, whether post-primary transfer tests will go ahead as planned, be delayed or cancelled in schools in January 2021.","answerText":"You will be aware the Post Primary Test Consortium announced that it has cancelled the GL assessment for this year. AQE Ltd also announced that it has cancelled its January tests and instead proposes to run a single test on 27 February subject to the public health advice which applies at that time.\n\nThere is no bar which would prevent primary schools from hosting the tests but this is a matter for individual schools.\n\nMy preference is for primary schools to host the transfer tests and indeed in 2016 I removed the instruction that had previously prevented this from happening. However, any move away from the current arrangements would require the consent of all primary schools and I cannot compel them to agree to this. However, I would urge the test providers, Principals and Boards of Governors to work together with parents and pupils to seek agreement on how this could facilitated in future years.","answerHtml":"You will be aware the Post Primary Test Consortium announced that it has cancelled the GL assessment for this year. AQE Ltd also announced that it has cancelled its January tests and instead proposes to run a single test on 27 February subject to the public health advice which applies at that time.
There is no bar which would prevent primary schools from hosting the tests but this is a matter for individual schools.
My preference is for primary schools to host the transfer tests and indeed in 2016 I removed the instruction that had previously prevented this from happening. However, any move away from the current arrangements would require the consent of all primary schools and I cannot compel them to agree to this. However, I would urge the test providers, Principals and Boards of Governors to work together with parents and pupils to seek agreement on how this could facilitated in future years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012383%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=321028","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=321028"}},{"id":"320838","reference":"AQW 12287/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2021-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy when (i) AQW 9596/17-22; (ii) AQW 9597/17-22; (iii) AQW 9598/17-22; (iv) AQW 9599/17-22; (v) AQW 10295/17-22; (vi) AQW 10686/17-22; (vii) AQW 10755/17-22; (viii) AQW 11056/17-22; (ix) AQW 11057/17-22; and (x) AQW 11399/17-22 will be answered.","answerText":"As a result of the significant additional workload created by the Department’s response to the Covid 19 crisis, and the associated resourcing challenges, I regret that it has not been possible to adhere to the required timeline for Assembly Question responses.\n\nAll referenced questions have now been answered.","answerHtml":"As a result of the significant additional workload created by the Department’s response to the Covid 19 crisis, and the associated resourcing challenges, I regret that it has not been possible to adhere to the required timeline for Assembly Question responses.
All referenced questions have now been answered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012287%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320838"}},{"id":"320837","reference":"AQW 12286/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2021-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs when (i) AQW 6241/17-22; (ii) AQW 10514/17-22; (iii) AQW 10976/17-22; (iv) AQW 11058/17-22; (v) AQW 11121/17-22; (vi) AQW 11199/17-22; (vii) AQW 11201/17-22; and (viii) AQW 11304/17-22 will be answered.","answerText":"AQW 6241/17-22 was answered on 21 October 2020;\n\nAQW 10514/17-22 was answered on 13 January 2021;\n\nAQW 10976/17-22 was answered on 23 December 2020;\n\nAQW 11058/17-22 was answered on 29 December 2020;\n\nAQW 11121/17-22 was answered on 05 January 2021;\n\nAQW 11199/17-22 was answered on 15 January 2021;\n\nAQW 11201/17-22 was answered on 29 December 2020; and\n\nAQW 11304/17-22 was answered on 18 December 2020","answerHtml":"AQW 6241/17-22 was answered on 21 October 2020;
AQW 10514/17-22 was answered on 13 January 2021;
AQW 10976/17-22 was answered on 23 December 2020;
AQW 11058/17-22 was answered on 29 December 2020;
AQW 11121/17-22 was answered on 05 January 2021;
AQW 11199/17-22 was answered on 15 January 2021;
AQW 11201/17-22 was answered on 29 December 2020; and
AQW 11304/17-22 was answered on 18 December 2020
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012286%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320837"}},{"id":"320836","reference":"AQW 12285/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on the development proposal for an additional multi-purpose resource space and toilets at Drumrane Primary School, Limavady; (ii) when he is likely to make a decision on the proposal; and (iii) for the estimated cost of the work.","answerText":"I approved Development Proposal 616 on 14 December 2020. The proposal was to increase the admissions number at Drumrane Primary from 17 to 20 with a phased increase in enrolment from 116 to 140.\n\nNo additional classrooms were required as the school currently has five classrooms which is the correct size for a maximum enrolment of 140.\n\nThe provision of a multi-purpose room and toilets is the responsibility of the Education Authority (EA) and would be subject to the EA completing a feasibility report to identify the need and a business case setting out the preferred option.","answerHtml":"I approved Development Proposal 616 on 14 December 2020. The proposal was to increase the admissions number at Drumrane Primary from 17 to 20 with a phased increase in enrolment from 116 to 140.
No additional classrooms were required as the school currently has five classrooms which is the correct size for a maximum enrolment of 140.
The provision of a multi-purpose room and toilets is the responsibility of the Education Authority (EA) and would be subject to the EA completing a feasibility report to identify the need and a business case setting out the preferred option.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012285%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320836"}},{"id":"320835","reference":"AQW 12284/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-18","answerBy":"2021-01-07","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on when the Outline Business Case 1 for the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison will be completed and submitted to Financial Services Division.","answerText":"An Outline Business Case (OBC) 1 for the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison will be submitted to Financial Services Division (FSD) no later than Spring 2021. The proposals in the OBC will reflect the delivery model from the Estates 2020 discussion document, launched in December 2018 ie a 240 Accommodation Block, Independent Living Units (ILUs), a new Welcome & Visits Centre and a new Admin block.","answerHtml":"An Outline Business Case (OBC) 1 for the redevelopment of Magilligan Prison will be submitted to Financial Services Division (FSD) no later than Spring 2021. The proposals in the OBC will reflect the delivery model from the Estates 2020 discussion document, launched in December 2018 ie a 240 Accommodation Block, Independent Living Units (ILUs), a new Welcome & Visits Centre and a new Admin block.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012284%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320835"}},{"id":"320733","reference":"AQW 12220/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-17","answerBy":"2021-01-06","answered":"2021-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, given the expected need for more vets in Northern Ireland to certify food and animals in a no-deal Brexit, to detail (i) his plans to create a veterinary school in Northern Ireland; and (ii) what recent discussions he has had with further and higher education institutions regarding this issue.","answerText":"I am aware of the potential need for increased numbers of vets to certify food and animals under the Northern Ireland Protocol, and my Department has been working hard to ensure that sufficient trained veterinary resources are in place across the profession, to meet this need from 1st January 2021 onwards.\n\nHowever it is not the role of the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to create a veterinary school in Northern Ireland, and I have had no recent discussions with either further or higher education institutions on this matter\n\nI would however be very supportive of any proposals to develop undergraduate veterinary education here in Northern Ireland, and would be happy to facilitate this in whatever way I could, were either of the local universities to decide to take this forward.\n\nTo that end I have recently written to the Vice Chancellor of each university, in an attempt to establish their level of interest in and commitment to any such proposal.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the potential need for increased numbers of vets to certify food and animals under the Northern Ireland Protocol, and my Department has been working hard to ensure that sufficient trained veterinary resources are in place across the profession, to meet this need from 1st January 2021 onwards.
However it is not the role of the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to create a veterinary school in Northern Ireland, and I have had no recent discussions with either further or higher education institutions on this matter
I would however be very supportive of any proposals to develop undergraduate veterinary education here in Northern Ireland, and would be happy to facilitate this in whatever way I could, were either of the local universities to decide to take this forward.
To that end I have recently written to the Vice Chancellor of each university, in an attempt to establish their level of interest in and commitment to any such proposal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012220%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320733","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320733"}},{"id":"320732","reference":"AQW 12219/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-17","answerBy":"2021-01-06","answered":"2021-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) for his assessment on the figure, given by the British Veterinary Society, of a 10-12 per cent shortage of vets in Northern Ireland; and (ii) what plans he has to address this shortage.","answerText":"I am aware of the British Veterinary Association’s figure, and believe this to be a reasonably authoritative statement of the position, especially in the run-up to Brexit. This figure is also supported by anecdotal information on the difficulties employers are encountering recruiting sufficient experienced vets for the vacancies that exist, both here in Northern Ireland and beyond.\n\nIt is not however within the gift of the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to address this shortage, though I am pleased that veterinarians have recently been added to the Shortage Occupation List, facilitating their recruitment from outside the UK.\n\nI also note the recent increases in the capacity of the university system to supply higher numbers of graduates in the future, with larger class sizes in existing facilities, and new veterinary schools coming on stream in other colleges across the United Kingdom.\n\nIn this respect, I am also very supportive of proposals to develop undergraduate veterinary education here in Northern Ireland, should the local universities decide to take this forward.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the British Veterinary Association’s figure, and believe this to be a reasonably authoritative statement of the position, especially in the run-up to Brexit. This figure is also supported by anecdotal information on the difficulties employers are encountering recruiting sufficient experienced vets for the vacancies that exist, both here in Northern Ireland and beyond.
It is not however within the gift of the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to address this shortage, though I am pleased that veterinarians have recently been added to the Shortage Occupation List, facilitating their recruitment from outside the UK.
I also note the recent increases in the capacity of the university system to supply higher numbers of graduates in the future, with larger class sizes in existing facilities, and new veterinary schools coming on stream in other colleges across the United Kingdom.
In this respect, I am also very supportive of proposals to develop undergraduate veterinary education here in Northern Ireland, should the local universities decide to take this forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012219%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320732","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320732"}},{"id":"320731","reference":"AQW 12218/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-17","answerBy":"2021-01-06","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the efforts made by her Department to prepare small and micro-businesses for a no-deal Brexit; (ii) the support provided; and (iii) the advice given to those who sell to GB and the EU.","answerText":"My Department, working alongside Invest NI and InterTradeIreland, made substantial efforts across the past year to prepare Northern Ireland’s small and micro-businesses for the implementation of the Protocol against the context of a possible no deal, with the message being to prepare regardless of the outcome.\n\nNow that a UK-EU deal has been reached and the Protocol implemented, I continue to work to help businesses prepare for the outworkings of these agreements and to seek longer term sustainable mitigations. It remains important that businesses consider the steps required to ensure they can continue to trade in this new environment as of 1 January.\n\nSupport is still on offer for businesses of all sizes. InvestNI continues to offer a range of support services to companies and InterTradeIreland’s Brexit Advisory Service provides financial and professional support. The NI Business Info website draws together material from a wide range of sources to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for guidance and checklists geared towards smaller businesses.\n\nThese advice and supports have been tailored to those businesses, particularly small and micro, which trade with Great Britain in goods, and those that trade with the EU, primarily impacted by changes to the trade of services and data.\n\nMy Department will continue to provide advice, guidance and support to businesses in the months ahead to support our businesses to adjust to the new trading environment. I want to ensure NI businesses are well positioned to seize the market access opportunities ahead.","answerHtml":"My Department, working alongside Invest NI and InterTradeIreland, made substantial efforts across the past year to prepare Northern Ireland’s small and micro-businesses for the implementation of the Protocol against the context of a possible no deal, with the message being to prepare regardless of the outcome.
Now that a UK-EU deal has been reached and the Protocol implemented, I continue to work to help businesses prepare for the outworkings of these agreements and to seek longer term sustainable mitigations. It remains important that businesses consider the steps required to ensure they can continue to trade in this new environment as of 1 January.
Support is still on offer for businesses of all sizes. InvestNI continues to offer a range of support services to companies and InterTradeIreland’s Brexit Advisory Service provides financial and professional support. The NI Business Info website draws together material from a wide range of sources to provide a ‘one stop shop’ for guidance and checklists geared towards smaller businesses.
These advice and supports have been tailored to those businesses, particularly small and micro, which trade with Great Britain in goods, and those that trade with the EU, primarily impacted by changes to the trade of services and data.
My Department will continue to provide advice, guidance and support to businesses in the months ahead to support our businesses to adjust to the new trading environment. I want to ensure NI businesses are well positioned to seize the market access opportunities ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012218%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320731","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320731"}},{"id":"320730","reference":"AQW 12217/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-17","answerBy":"2021-01-06","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for an update on the submission of Waterways Ireland’s 2020-22 Corporate Plan and 2020 and 2021 Business Plans to NSMC; and (ii) whether she expects this to be approved before the proposed deadline of the end of 2020.","answerText":"Waterways Ireland is in the final stages of developing a 10 year strategy. When complete and agreed, this strategy will be delivered through the Annual Business Plans and three year Corporate Plans. The Corporate Plan 2020-2022 will be developed from the long term strategy and will be submitted to NSMC for approval in due course.\n\nThe Waterways Ireland Business Plans and Budgets for 2020 and 2021 have been approved by Sponsor Ministers, Finance Ministers and subsequently by NSMC at the Institutional Meeting on 16 December 2020.","answerHtml":"Waterways Ireland is in the final stages of developing a 10 year strategy. When complete and agreed, this strategy will be delivered through the Annual Business Plans and three year Corporate Plans. The Corporate Plan 2020-2022 will be developed from the long term strategy and will be submitted to NSMC for approval in due course.
The Waterways Ireland Business Plans and Budgets for 2020 and 2021 have been approved by Sponsor Ministers, Finance Ministers and subsequently by NSMC at the Institutional Meeting on 16 December 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012217%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320730","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320730"}},{"id":"320729","reference":"AQW 12216/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-17","answerBy":"2021-01-06","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the discussions he has had with other Executive Departments in relation to ending period poverty; and (ii) his estimate of the number of school days lost by students who miss school because they cannot afford sanitary products.","answerText":"My officials have liaised with colleagues in Department of Health, Communities, Economy and Justice on this issue. They will continue to do so through the cross-departmental working group co-ordinated by the Department of Finance.\n\nSpecific data is not available on the number of school days lost by students who miss school because they cannot afford sanitary products as pupil absences are not recorded in such precise terms.\n\nThe NI Executive's decision on 17 December 2020 to fund a pilot scheme to address period poverty in schools will help to address this issue. The scheme, which will make products freely available when needed, will support learners to confidently manage their periods in school.","answerHtml":"My officials have liaised with colleagues in Department of Health, Communities, Economy and Justice on this issue. They will continue to do so through the cross-departmental working group co-ordinated by the Department of Finance.
Specific data is not available on the number of school days lost by students who miss school because they cannot afford sanitary products as pupil absences are not recorded in such precise terms.
The NI Executive's decision on 17 December 2020 to fund a pilot scheme to address period poverty in schools will help to address this issue. The scheme, which will make products freely available when needed, will support learners to confidently manage their periods in school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012216%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320729","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320729"}},{"id":"320605","reference":"AQW 12146/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) whether community and voluntary organisations are able to provide mental health and social support services, including youth services, in their premises; and (ii) to detail the current restrictions and guidance for community and voluntary organisations including management meetings.","answerText":"Voluntary and Community sector organisations can continue to provide mental health and support services in their premises under the current restrictions that came into operation on 26 December. However, all indoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 15 people with adherence to the public health and social distancing guidance.\n\nA set of stricter measures was in place from 26 December 2020 to 2 January 2021. During this period no indoor gatherings were permitted between 8.00pm and 6.00am.\n\nInformation on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you","answerHtml":"Voluntary and Community sector organisations can continue to provide mental health and support services in their premises under the current restrictions that came into operation on 26 December. However, all indoor gatherings are limited to a maximum of 15 people with adherence to the public health and social distancing guidance.
A set of stricter measures was in place from 26 December 2020 to 2 January 2021. During this period no indoor gatherings were permitted between 8.00pm and 6.00am.
Information on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012146%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320605","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320605"}},{"id":"320604","reference":"AQW 12145/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on its work legislating for the core elements of the rights, language and Identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"Our officials continue with preparatory work, to legislate for the core elements of the Rights, Language and Identity proposals contained in ‘New Decade, New Approach’.\n\nWe will progress the legislation during 2020/21 and the appointment of the Commissioners as quickly as possible thereafter.\n\nWe will update the Assembly in due course.","answerHtml":"Our officials continue with preparatory work, to legislate for the core elements of the Rights, Language and Identity proposals contained in ‘New Decade, New Approach’.
We will progress the legislation during 2020/21 and the appointment of the Commissioners as quickly as possible thereafter.
We will update the Assembly in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012145%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320604","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320604"}},{"id":"320603","reference":"AQW 12144/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 11485/17-22, according to the Northern Ireland Skills Barometer, which STEM subjects in particular are undersupplied in higher education.","answerText":"The Skills Barometer produced by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre provides us with a detailed understanding of the future skills needs of the Northern Ireland economy under a high growth scenario.\n\nResults from the 2019 update of the Skills Barometer model project that the top three subjects that will be undersupplied at degree level in STEM subjects are as follows: Engineering and Technology; Mathematical and Computer Science; and Physical/Environment Sciences.\n\nIt should be noted that the latest Skills Barometer update was produced prior to the current Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nMore detailed information on the Skills Barometer 2019 results can be viewed here: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-skills-barometer-2019-update.","answerHtml":"The Skills Barometer produced by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre provides us with a detailed understanding of the future skills needs of the Northern Ireland economy under a high growth scenario.
Results from the 2019 update of the Skills Barometer model project that the top three subjects that will be undersupplied at degree level in STEM subjects are as follows: Engineering and Technology; Mathematical and Computer Science; and Physical/Environment Sciences.
It should be noted that the latest Skills Barometer update was produced prior to the current Covid-19 pandemic.
More detailed information on the Skills Barometer 2019 results can be viewed here: https://www.economy-ni.gov.uk/publications/northern-ireland-skills-barometer-2019-update.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012144%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320603","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320603"}},{"id":"320602","reference":"AQW 12143/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) when their planned press conference to take questions exclusively from young people is to be rescheduled; and (ii) what correspondence there has been with youth groups such as the NI Youth Forum in order to hear their concerns about support and other issues for young people.","answerText":"We appreciate that our young people have specific issues and concerns and are actively trying to communicate with as many people as possible in ways that are relevant and accessible to them.\n\nAs part of our ongoing commitment to communicate effectively with young people, we have taken part in a range of engagement activities.\n\nMost recently, we have engaged with educational organisation Politics In Action as part of their ‘New Normal’ project, with Junior Minister Middleton and the deputy First Minister taking part in an online event.\n\nPupils from 20 schools across Northern Ireland posed a series of questions to the Ministers, in a press conference style, in front of an audience of around 200 students.\n\nWe have also participated in an online youth press conference in conjunction with Cool FM.\n\nAround 25 young people from across Northern Ireland took part in the event, asking questions on a range of issues important to them.\n\nThe event was broadcast by Cool FM on Facebook, gaining 141.4k views, with an additional 130k views of edited content posted on their social media accounts.\n\nIn the Autumn of 2020, a bespoke communications campaign targeting 16-25 year olds using social media platforms including Tik Tok and Mobsta, with the average young person seeing this over 15 times.\n\nWe will continue to review and reflect on the most effective communications approach with younger people and more broadly with all members of the public.","answerHtml":"We appreciate that our young people have specific issues and concerns and are actively trying to communicate with as many people as possible in ways that are relevant and accessible to them.
As part of our ongoing commitment to communicate effectively with young people, we have taken part in a range of engagement activities.
Most recently, we have engaged with educational organisation Politics In Action as part of their ‘New Normal’ project, with Junior Minister Middleton and the deputy First Minister taking part in an online event.
Pupils from 20 schools across Northern Ireland posed a series of questions to the Ministers, in a press conference style, in front of an audience of around 200 students.
We have also participated in an online youth press conference in conjunction with Cool FM.
Around 25 young people from across Northern Ireland took part in the event, asking questions on a range of issues important to them.
The event was broadcast by Cool FM on Facebook, gaining 141.4k views, with an additional 130k views of edited content posted on their social media accounts.
In the Autumn of 2020, a bespoke communications campaign targeting 16-25 year olds using social media platforms including Tik Tok and Mobsta, with the average young person seeing this over 15 times.
We will continue to review and reflect on the most effective communications approach with younger people and more broadly with all members of the public.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012143%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320602"}},{"id":"320601","reference":"AQW 12142/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-16","answerBy":"2021-01-05","answered":"2021-02-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for an update of their advice for people planning to socialise with family members over Christmas; and (ii) how and when this advice will be distributed.","answerText":"Updated guidance on socialising over the Christmas period was published on the nidirect.gov.uk website on 22 December.\n\nInformation on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you","answerHtml":"Updated guidance on socialising over the Christmas period was published on the nidirect.gov.uk website on 22 December.
Information on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012142%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320601","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320601"}},{"id":"320414","reference":"AQW 12072/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2021-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, following the advice from Causeway Hospital Accident and Emergency department on December 15 for people not to attend the department under any circumstances, (i) how many calls were received from within the hospital's catchment area by the Use Phone First number on this date; (ii) how many calls were received on each day from this area in each of the previous two weeks; and (iii) how many fatalities were recorded of people who had previously called the phone number on these days.","answerText":"Information on the number of ‘Phone First’ calls received by the Causeway emergency department were provided by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.\n\n(i) On 15th December 2020, 101 ‘Phone First’ calls were received within the Causeway hospital’s catchment area, 21 of which were directed to Causeway ED, (ii) information on the number of ‘Phone First’ calls received from the Causeway hospital’s catchment area, for each day between 1st December 2020 to 14th December 2020 is detailed in the table attached, (iii) there were no fatalities recorded for people who called the ‘Phone First’ number between the 1st December and 15th December 2020.\n\nNumber of ‘Phone First’ Calls Received within the Causeway Catchment Area (1st December 2020 – 14th December 2020)\n\nDate\tNumber of Calls\n01/12/2020\t31\n02/12/2020\t29\n03/12/2020\t39\n04/12/2020\t24\n05/12/2020\t21\n06/12/2020\t17\n07/12/2020\t32\n08/12/2020\t21\n09/12/2020\t35\n10/12/2020\t33\n11/12/2020\t35\n12/12/2020\t18\n13/12/2020\t17\n14/12/2020\t43","answerHtml":"Information on the number of ‘Phone First’ calls received by the Causeway emergency department were provided by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.
(i) On 15th December 2020, 101 ‘Phone First’ calls were received within the Causeway hospital’s catchment area, 21 of which were directed to Causeway ED, (ii) information on the number of ‘Phone First’ calls received from the Causeway hospital’s catchment area, for each day between 1st December 2020 to 14th December 2020 is detailed in the table attached, (iii) there were no fatalities recorded for people who called the ‘Phone First’ number between the 1st December and 15th December 2020.
Number of ‘Phone First’ Calls Received within the Causeway Catchment Area (1st December 2020 – 14th December 2020)
| Date | Number of Calls |
| 01/12/2020 | 31 |
| 02/12/2020 | 29 |
| 03/12/2020 | 39 |
| 04/12/2020 | 24 |
| 05/12/2020 | 21 |
| 06/12/2020 | 17 |
| 07/12/2020 | 32 |
| 08/12/2020 | 21 |
| 09/12/2020 | 35 |
| 10/12/2020 | 33 |
| 11/12/2020 | 35 |
| 12/12/2020 | 18 |
| 13/12/2020 | 17 |
| 14/12/2020 | 43 |
While my Department does not produce forecasts in this respect, it is clear that the economic impact of COVID-19 has been unprecedented and there has been an expectation that this crisis will lead to an increase in unemployment and redundancies.
We have already seen evidence of this to date with the latest Labour Force Survey estimates showing that the latest claimant count in November 2020 remains more than double the number in March 2020. Added to this, redundancies have shot up over the last few months. For example, in the last five months to November, my Department was notified of some 3,630 redundancies, 80% of the total redundancies confirmed within the last year. The Furlough Scheme and the ongoing actions of my Department continue to shield the economy from the full effects of the crisis but the risks of further unemployment and redundancies remain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012071%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320413","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320413"}},{"id":"320412","reference":"AQW 12070/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) what discussions she has had with Executive colleagues and Waterways Ireland relating to capital expenditure projects along the Lower Bann in the East Londonderry constituency; and (ii) the nature and cost of these projects.","answerText":"Waterways Ireland receives a capital budget allocation each year from the Department for Infrastructure. The allocation is dependent on the amount of capital available to the Department and the priority of all of the bids to be considered. Capital allocated to Waterways Ireland is spent on projects in the North.\n\nWhen Waterways Ireland identifies potential projects, a Business Case is prepared and submitted to the Department for clearance.\n\nWaterways Ireland gives details of proposed Capital projects, which have approved Business Cases and which it can deliver in year, in the Annual Business Plan. Projects are prioritised and those involving a risk of infrastructure failure or Health and Safety issues are considered high priority when the Department is allocating its annual Capital Budget.\n\nThe annual Business Plan is circulated to Executive Colleagues before it is submitted for NSMC approval.\n\nThe table below shows Waterways Ireland’s planned capital projects on the Lower Bann for 2021, including the nature and cost of each.\n\nLOCATION\tDESCRIPTION\tPLANNED TO START\tESTIMATED COST\n£000\nCarnroe Weir\tRehabilitation of the weir\nPreparatory Works\nInstream Works – Phase 1\nInstream Works – Phase 2\tEarly 2021\nSpring 2021\nSpring 2022\tTotal - 2,500\nThe Cutts\tReplacement of Lock Gates\t2021\t27\nReplacement of Fleet and Plant\tLower Bann\t2021\t20\nTOTAL\t\t\t2,547","answerHtml":"Waterways Ireland receives a capital budget allocation each year from the Department for Infrastructure. The allocation is dependent on the amount of capital available to the Department and the priority of all of the bids to be considered. Capital allocated to Waterways Ireland is spent on projects in the North.
When Waterways Ireland identifies potential projects, a Business Case is prepared and submitted to the Department for clearance.
Waterways Ireland gives details of proposed Capital projects, which have approved Business Cases and which it can deliver in year, in the Annual Business Plan. Projects are prioritised and those involving a risk of infrastructure failure or Health and Safety issues are considered high priority when the Department is allocating its annual Capital Budget.
The annual Business Plan is circulated to Executive Colleagues before it is submitted for NSMC approval.
The table below shows Waterways Ireland’s planned capital projects on the Lower Bann for 2021, including the nature and cost of each.
| LOCATION | DESCRIPTION | PLANNED TO START | ESTIMATED COST £000 |
| Carnroe Weir | Rehabilitation of the weir Preparatory Works Instream Works – Phase 1 Instream Works – Phase 2 | Early 2021 Spring 2021 Spring 2022 | Total - 2,500 |
| The Cutts | Replacement of Lock Gates | 2021 | 27 |
| Replacement of Fleet and Plant | Lower Bann | 2021 | 20 |
| TOTAL | 2,547 |
My officials continue to engage with their counterparts in the Department of Health & Social Care in respect of the latest available evidence and most appropriate response following the identification of new variants of the Covid-19 virus.
The available data would suggest that the new variant is accounting for an increasing share of the identified Covid-19 cases in Northern Ireland.
However, this assessment is subject to a high degree of uncertainty at the present time as it is based on a proxy indicator identified during the testing process and the currently available results of genome sequencing of a small number of samples that are not representative of the overall population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012069%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320411"}},{"id":"320410","reference":"AQW 12068/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-15","answerBy":"2021-01-04","answered":"2021-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the number of times contact tracing details left by customers in (i) the hospitality sector; (ii) the sport and leisure sectors; and (iii) places of worship have been used to inform other customers, service users or worshippers of having been in close proximity to someone who has subsequently tested positive for COVID-19.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) has advised that it is only mandatory for customers or service users to leave contact details in the hospitality sector. Such information is requested by PHA on a case by case basis.\n\nThe PHA reports information on clusters and outbreaks by setting each week at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/covid-19-clusteroutbreak-summary\n\nThis data is informed by people who have tested positive and advise the PHA of their location in the previous seven days, the PHA are then able to make links between cases who have attended the same setting.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency (PHA) has advised that it is only mandatory for customers or service users to leave contact details in the hospitality sector. Such information is requested by PHA on a case by case basis.
The PHA reports information on clusters and outbreaks by setting each week at the following link:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/covid-19-clusteroutbreak-summary
This data is informed by people who have tested positive and advise the PHA of their location in the previous seven days, the PHA are then able to make links between cases who have attended the same setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012068%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320410"}},{"id":"320190","reference":"AQW 12012/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-14","answerBy":"2020-12-31","answered":"2021-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 11307/17-22, to detail the reasons for the different lower and maximum loan amounts for Northern Irish students living away from home, compared to those for the other regions of the UK.","answerText":"The difference in maintenance loan amounts for HE students across the UK is a direct result of the devolution of Higher Education. Each country has differing policy priorities around Higher Education and differing budgetary constraints, and it is therefore inevitable that student financial support amounts and terms and conditions will vary in each jurisdiction.\n\nThe level of maintenance loans available to NI domiciles have been maintained at the same level since academic year 2009/10. Changes to the level of support were considered for the 2014/15 academic year by Minister Farry. However, it was considered that the freezing of maintenance support was an integral part of the funding package approved by the Executive which provided for lower tuition fees for NI students at local universities in the context of fees rising to £9k in England.","answerHtml":"The difference in maintenance loan amounts for HE students across the UK is a direct result of the devolution of Higher Education. Each country has differing policy priorities around Higher Education and differing budgetary constraints, and it is therefore inevitable that student financial support amounts and terms and conditions will vary in each jurisdiction.
The level of maintenance loans available to NI domiciles have been maintained at the same level since academic year 2009/10. Changes to the level of support were considered for the 2014/15 academic year by Minister Farry. However, it was considered that the freezing of maintenance support was an integral part of the funding package approved by the Executive which provided for lower tuition fees for NI students at local universities in the context of fees rising to £9k in England.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012012%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320190"}},{"id":"320189","reference":"AQW 12011/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-14","answerBy":"2020-12-31","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 10972/17-22, to detail the criteria for receiving the £200 High Street Stimulus Scheme voucher.","answerText":"Pursuant to AQW 10972/17-22, the specifics of the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme are still being finalised and eligibility criteria has not yet been confirmed.","answerHtml":"Pursuant to AQW 10972/17-22, the specifics of the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme are still being finalised and eligibility criteria has not yet been confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012011%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320189"}},{"id":"320188","reference":"AQW 12010/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-14","answerBy":"2020-12-31","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, in relation to his Dormant Accounts Fund statement, (i) what expansions to the definition of Dormant Accounts are being considered by his Department; (ii) what communications with the owners of these dormant accounts are being considered; and (iii) what time period will the owners of the dormant accounts have to secure the funds in their accounts.","answerText":"(i)The Department for Culture, Media and Sports (DCMS) is responsible for the legal definition of Dormant Assets. DCMS is finalising their response to the consultation on expanding the definition of Dormant Assets and this should be published in the new year.\n\n(ii)DCMS has held a public consultation with all key stakeholders.\n\n(iii)Dormant Assets remain the rightful property of their owners, and the legislation guarantees their right to reclaim the amount owed to them at any time.","answerHtml":"(i)The Department for Culture, Media and Sports (DCMS) is responsible for the legal definition of Dormant Assets. DCMS is finalising their response to the consultation on expanding the definition of Dormant Assets and this should be published in the new year.
(ii)DCMS has held a public consultation with all key stakeholders.
(iii)Dormant Assets remain the rightful property of their owners, and the legislation guarantees their right to reclaim the amount owed to them at any time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012010%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320188"}},{"id":"320187","reference":"AQW 12009/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-14","answerBy":"2020-12-31","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, in relation to her Department’s Guidance for Sport and Physical Activity statement, (i) to provide clearer guidance on which activities have high levels of exertion; and (ii) whether any exercise can be carried out indoors until a person becomes out of breath.","answerText":"The COVID Regulations Guidance – Sport and Physical Activity (http://www.sportni.net/return-to-sport/) published on 11th December state “As Covid is spread by respiratory droplets, group indoor sports/exercise activities that have high levels of exertion (i.e. that cause participants to get out of breath) are not permitted at this time”.\n\nWhen assessing the risk associated with activities, qualified sports coaches / Instructors will be aware of the following very basic guidelines which are: -\n\nAt moderate exercise intensity / levels of exertion:-\n\nYour breathing quickens, but you're not out of breath.\n\nYou develop a light sweat after about 10 minutes of activity.\n\nYou can carry on a conversation, but you can't sing.\n\nAt high exercise intensity / levels of exertion (70%+ of maximum heart rate):-\n\nYour breathing is deep and rapid.\n\nYou develop a sweat after only a few minutes of activity.\n\nYou can't say more than a few words without pausing for breath.\n\nGoverning Bodies of sport and their sports clubs plus other exercise providers have a responsibility to select activity type, duration and frequency within the design of any training session to ensure that it does not expose the participants to high exercise intensity / levels of exertion.\n\nUltimately, those involved in delivering structured/organised sport and physical activity have a duty of care and must act responsibly given the gravity of the current situation and the implications for not just the participants but their wider family circle and community.","answerHtml":"The COVID Regulations Guidance – Sport and Physical Activity (http://www.sportni.net/return-to-sport/) published on 11th December state “As Covid is spread by respiratory droplets, group indoor sports/exercise activities that have high levels of exertion (i.e. that cause participants to get out of breath) are not permitted at this time”.
When assessing the risk associated with activities, qualified sports coaches / Instructors will be aware of the following very basic guidelines which are: -
At moderate exercise intensity / levels of exertion:-
Your breathing quickens, but you're not out of breath.
You develop a light sweat after about 10 minutes of activity.
You can carry on a conversation, but you can't sing.
At high exercise intensity / levels of exertion (70%+ of maximum heart rate):-
Your breathing is deep and rapid.
You develop a sweat after only a few minutes of activity.
You can't say more than a few words without pausing for breath.
Governing Bodies of sport and their sports clubs plus other exercise providers have a responsibility to select activity type, duration and frequency within the design of any training session to ensure that it does not expose the participants to high exercise intensity / levels of exertion.
Ultimately, those involved in delivering structured/organised sport and physical activity have a duty of care and must act responsibly given the gravity of the current situation and the implications for not just the participants but their wider family circle and community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012009%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320187","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320187"}},{"id":"320186","reference":"AQW 12008/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-14","answerBy":"2020-12-31","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how the figure of £20.5 million for the Dormant Accounts Fund was calculated.","answerText":"The Dormant Bank and Building Society Accounts Act 2008 enables banks and building societies, who opt into the scheme, to transfer the money held in dormant accounts to a central Reclaim Fund. The central Reclaim Fund is then responsible for managing money, meeting any reclaims and passing on surplus money for reinvestment in the community usually through the National Lottery Community Fund.\n\nThe North receives 2.8% of the total amount of money received by the central Reclaim Fund in a financial year as set out in the Distribution of Dormant Account Money (Apportionment) Order 2011. Amounts allocated are carried forward until spent, there is no requirement to spend it in the period it is received.","answerHtml":"The Dormant Bank and Building Society Accounts Act 2008 enables banks and building societies, who opt into the scheme, to transfer the money held in dormant accounts to a central Reclaim Fund. The central Reclaim Fund is then responsible for managing money, meeting any reclaims and passing on surplus money for reinvestment in the community usually through the National Lottery Community Fund.
The North receives 2.8% of the total amount of money received by the central Reclaim Fund in a financial year as set out in the Distribution of Dormant Account Money (Apportionment) Order 2011. Amounts allocated are carried forward until spent, there is no requirement to spend it in the period it is received.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2012008%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320186"}},{"id":"319993","reference":"AQW 11943/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-11","answerBy":"2020-12-30","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) how he is ensuring that parents are confident their children are getting the educational and mental health and wellbeing support they need to catch up from school closures; and (ii) the resources provided to parents to advise them on how to help their children catch up.","answerText":"I introduced the Engage Programme this year to help address the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on children's learning. It provides schools with extra funding so that they can secure additional qualified teachers, enabling the provision of child-centred one to one, small group or team teaching support. This support is targeted at pupils identified by their school as most benefitting from additional support following the lockdown period, and in accordance with their particular needs.\n\nWith regards to the emotional health and wellbeing of pupils returning to school after lockdown, it is important to note that a range of resources have been made available to schools to assist them in responding to pupil need which in turn helps them to engage in learning. The following examples of support have been/are available to schools:\n\n‘Supporting wellbeing through education restart’: an online portal of resources available to schools with information on supporting learners, leaders and staff;\n\nResources on the EA website to support the emotional health and wellbeing of learners and information for parents;\n\n‘Flourishing schools’ webinars – in partnership with SBNI. These were for school principals and focused on trauma sensitive practice (Early Year, Primary and Special schools webinars have taken place, and post primary schools;\n\nShane Martin Webinars for School Leaders: Cultivating Resilience within School Communities. The aim of this webinar was to help support school leaders through the challenges of Restart with a specific emphasis on resilience;\n\nEA youth service online resource ‘youth online’ where children and young people can access information, advice and support;\n\nEA services including the Independent Counselling Service for Schools in post primary mainstream and Special Schools; Education Welfare Service; Behaviour Support and Provisions Helpline; Primary Behaviour Support Team High Five newsletter; Critical Incident Response Team and Nurturing Approaches in Schools Service and the Children Looked After project including TAP – The Attach Programme;\n\nWellbeing Helpline – facilitated by the Education Psychology Service. This was a temporary resource to schools to support them as they respond to a range of pupil need in school;\n\nFinally, I can advise that I recently launched the Wellbeing Fund providing £5m in 2020/21 direct to all schools (nursery, primary, post primary, special), as well as EOTAS and Youth Settings to help address Wellbeing pressures arising as a result of Covid-19. By receiving their own allocation, settings will benefit from having the flexibility to use the money to provide health and wellbeing support for their pupils and/or staff.","answerHtml":"I introduced the Engage Programme this year to help address the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on children's learning. It provides schools with extra funding so that they can secure additional qualified teachers, enabling the provision of child-centred one to one, small group or team teaching support. This support is targeted at pupils identified by their school as most benefitting from additional support following the lockdown period, and in accordance with their particular needs.
With regards to the emotional health and wellbeing of pupils returning to school after lockdown, it is important to note that a range of resources have been made available to schools to assist them in responding to pupil need which in turn helps them to engage in learning. The following examples of support have been/are available to schools:
‘Supporting wellbeing through education restart’: an online portal of resources available to schools with information on supporting learners, leaders and staff;
Resources on the EA website to support the emotional health and wellbeing of learners and information for parents;
‘Flourishing schools’ webinars – in partnership with SBNI. These were for school principals and focused on trauma sensitive practice (Early Year, Primary and Special schools webinars have taken place, and post primary schools;
Shane Martin Webinars for School Leaders: Cultivating Resilience within School Communities. The aim of this webinar was to help support school leaders through the challenges of Restart with a specific emphasis on resilience;
EA youth service online resource ‘youth online’ where children and young people can access information, advice and support;
EA services including the Independent Counselling Service for Schools in post primary mainstream and Special Schools; Education Welfare Service; Behaviour Support and Provisions Helpline; Primary Behaviour Support Team High Five newsletter; Critical Incident Response Team and Nurturing Approaches in Schools Service and the Children Looked After project including TAP – The Attach Programme;
Wellbeing Helpline – facilitated by the Education Psychology Service. This was a temporary resource to schools to support them as they respond to a range of pupil need in school;
Finally, I can advise that I recently launched the Wellbeing Fund providing £5m in 2020/21 direct to all schools (nursery, primary, post primary, special), as well as EOTAS and Youth Settings to help address Wellbeing pressures arising as a result of Covid-19. By receiving their own allocation, settings will benefit from having the flexibility to use the money to provide health and wellbeing support for their pupils and/or staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011943%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319993"}},{"id":"319992","reference":"AQW 11942/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-11","answerBy":"2020-12-30","answered":"2021-02-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what options have been explored to enable friends and relatives to more regularly and safely visit loved-ones resident in care homes.","answerText":"Managing the impact of the transmission of Covid-19 into care homes by placing protective restrictions on access to residents has been a key strategy in keeping them safe.\n\nThe visiting guidance (here) is applied in line with the Regional Alert Level which is subject to ongoing review. This is essential for maintaining safety for all, including residents, families, health and social care staff and by extension the wider population, through social distancing and appropriate Infection Control Procedures being implemented across all healthcare settings.\n\nThe guidance emphasizes that care homes should recognise the right to a family life for those residing in care homes, and particularly the importance many people attach to seeing family and friends on a regular basis. However, given the ongoing high rate of transmission of the virus, we are currently at Alert Level 5. Consequently, in terms of visiting to Care Homes, the guidance recommends:\n\nIndoor visiting in resident rooms for end of life visiting.\n\nWhere the home is not in an outbreak, visiting should be facilitated where there are well ventilated designated rooms/visiting pods.\n\nAlternatives to face-to-face visiting for all others should be provided\n\nFurther, the guidance confirms that Care Partner contact, safely managed in line with the care home visiting policy, can continue at all Alert Levels. The full visiting guidance provides further recommendation and should still be referred to for clarity.\n\nMy officials continue to engage with a range of stakeholders, including representatives of residents and families, independent Care Home providers, Trust staff, including those providing support to care homes, and representatives of other statutory organisations involved with the independent care home sector, to listen to concerns regarding the implementation of these visiting arrangements and to help provide support.\n\nWhile my officials keep the overarching guidance under review, in line with the best available scientific and medical evidence, no significant changes are currently anticipated.","answerHtml":"Managing the impact of the transmission of Covid-19 into care homes by placing protective restrictions on access to residents has been a key strategy in keeping them safe.
The visiting guidance (here) is applied in line with the Regional Alert Level which is subject to ongoing review. This is essential for maintaining safety for all, including residents, families, health and social care staff and by extension the wider population, through social distancing and appropriate Infection Control Procedures being implemented across all healthcare settings.
The guidance emphasizes that care homes should recognise the right to a family life for those residing in care homes, and particularly the importance many people attach to seeing family and friends on a regular basis. However, given the ongoing high rate of transmission of the virus, we are currently at Alert Level 5. Consequently, in terms of visiting to Care Homes, the guidance recommends:
Indoor visiting in resident rooms for end of life visiting.
Where the home is not in an outbreak, visiting should be facilitated where there are well ventilated designated rooms/visiting pods.
Alternatives to face-to-face visiting for all others should be provided
Further, the guidance confirms that Care Partner contact, safely managed in line with the care home visiting policy, can continue at all Alert Levels. The full visiting guidance provides further recommendation and should still be referred to for clarity.
My officials continue to engage with a range of stakeholders, including representatives of residents and families, independent Care Home providers, Trust staff, including those providing support to care homes, and representatives of other statutory organisations involved with the independent care home sector, to listen to concerns regarding the implementation of these visiting arrangements and to help provide support.
While my officials keep the overarching guidance under review, in line with the best available scientific and medical evidence, no significant changes are currently anticipated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011942%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319992"}},{"id":"319991","reference":"AQW 11941/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-11","answerBy":"2020-12-30","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on her focused review of the support mechanisms and procedures the Prison Service has in place to ascertain if more could be done to help the wellbeing of frontline staff, due to report on October 31.","answerText":"I commissioned the review of support services for frontline prison staff and the report was due at the end of October.\n\nFollowing a request from the Review Team, I granted an extension to mid-December. I have now received a copy of the report and am considering the recommendations.","answerHtml":"I commissioned the review of support services for frontline prison staff and the report was due at the end of October.
Following a request from the Review Team, I granted an extension to mid-December. I have now received a copy of the report and am considering the recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011941%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319991"}},{"id":"319990","reference":"AQW 11940/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-11","answerBy":"2020-12-30","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 11305/17-22, what assessment she has made of the remuneration received by musical artists from streaming sites; and what action she has taken, or intends to take, to help increase this remuneration.","answerText":"My department has a regular engagement with the Arts Council and with representatives of the music industry on the issues faced by music sector.\n\nThe Arts Council upports the suggestion of an overhaul of the economics of the music streaming model and to make the case for a fairer deal for songwriters, composers and performers.","answerHtml":"My department has a regular engagement with the Arts Council and with representatives of the music industry on the issues faced by music sector.
The Arts Council upports the suggestion of an overhaul of the economics of the music streaming model and to make the case for a fairer deal for songwriters, composers and performers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011940%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319990"}},{"id":"319989","reference":"AQW 11939/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-11","answerBy":"2020-12-30","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 10294/17-22, to detail (i) her options; and (ii) her plans to utilise the remaining £22.2 million underspend in the Annually Managed Expenditure for the Renewable Heat Incentive.","answerText":"As I advised in my responses to AQW 11484/17-22 and AQW 10294/17-22, the AME budget available for the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme has not all been drawn down from HM Treasury. This budget can only be used to incentivise the use of renewable heat and again we cannot simply adopt a tariff that maximises use of available budget.\n\nOn the basis that the Non-domestic RHI Scheme will be closed in line with the commitment made in the New Decade, New Approach deal, proposals for a replacement scheme to incentivise generation of heat from renewable sources will be brought forward at a later date.","answerHtml":"As I advised in my responses to AQW 11484/17-22 and AQW 10294/17-22, the AME budget available for the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme has not all been drawn down from HM Treasury. This budget can only be used to incentivise the use of renewable heat and again we cannot simply adopt a tariff that maximises use of available budget.
On the basis that the Non-domestic RHI Scheme will be closed in line with the commitment made in the New Decade, New Approach deal, proposals for a replacement scheme to incentivise generation of heat from renewable sources will be brought forward at a later date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011939%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319989","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319989"}},{"id":"319833","reference":"AQW 11864/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-10","answerBy":"2020-12-29","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail his plans to (i) extend and improve emotional support and clinical mental health therapy to those living with diabetes; and (ii) improve education in schools about diabetes.","answerText":"The need for emotional support and clinical mental health therapy for people living with diabetes was highlighted in both the 2017 Diabetes UK “Future of Diabetes” Report and in its 2019 report “Too Often Missing – making emotional and psychological support routine in diabetes care”.\n\nThe Diabetes Network supports the implementation of the recommendations of the Diabetes Strategic Framework for Northern Ireland and works in partnership with clinicians, health and social care professionals, Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes on the design and delivery of better diabetes services. This includes ensuring that people living with diabetes have access to the treatment, care, information and support they need to manage their diabetes effectively and to optimise their physical and mental and emotional health and well-being.\n\nThe Diabetes Network recognises both the importance of emotional and psychological support for people living with diabetes and also the need for more work in this area. In the short term, Health and Social Care Trusts have been invited to avail of non-recurrent funding up to March 2021 to enhance the current provision of psychological support for people living with diabetes. Funding will be allocated to help Trusts follow guidance and best practice in order to consider ways to support people living with diabetes, including, for example:\n\njoint learning and training opportunities in mental health services for staff across different disciplines;\n\nthe use of on-line questionnaires for mental health screening and video conferencing for talking therapies interventions and to inform conversations between diabetes health care professionals and people living with diabetes on their current mental health and coping strategies;\n\non-line self-help psychological support and psychological education regarding emotional and mental health offered to individuals to help empower them to manage their emotional and mental health;\n\nsignposting opportunities to resources such as the Public Health Agency’s “Take 5 Steps to well-being” and “Steps to Deal with Stress” and signposting to the NI Minding your head.info website and mindfulness exercises.\n\nIn relation to improving education in schools about diabetes, there is close co-operation between schools and local HSC Trusts to ensure a child who is living with diabetes can participate fully in school activities and that the school has access to the information required to help support the child.\n\nWhen a child is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, the child and their family receive education and information about how to manage their diabetes. The child is then offered a group based programme of structured education (the CHOICE programme) in the first six months following diagnosis.\n\nThe school the child attends also receives education, information and advice from the diabetic specialist nurse about how the child’s diabetes should be managed in a school setting. All children with diabetes have an individual healthcare plan that describes the care the child should receive while in school. There is also a communication booklet which enables the parent to advise on the daily doses of insulin required for their child’s dietary requirements. There is a regionally agreed format for the health care plan and communication booklets used in all schools in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The need for emotional support and clinical mental health therapy for people living with diabetes was highlighted in both the 2017 Diabetes UK “Future of Diabetes” Report and in its 2019 report “Too Often Missing – making emotional and psychological support routine in diabetes care”.
The Diabetes Network supports the implementation of the recommendations of the Diabetes Strategic Framework for Northern Ireland and works in partnership with clinicians, health and social care professionals, Diabetes UK and people living with diabetes on the design and delivery of better diabetes services. This includes ensuring that people living with diabetes have access to the treatment, care, information and support they need to manage their diabetes effectively and to optimise their physical and mental and emotional health and well-being.
The Diabetes Network recognises both the importance of emotional and psychological support for people living with diabetes and also the need for more work in this area. In the short term, Health and Social Care Trusts have been invited to avail of non-recurrent funding up to March 2021 to enhance the current provision of psychological support for people living with diabetes. Funding will be allocated to help Trusts follow guidance and best practice in order to consider ways to support people living with diabetes, including, for example:
joint learning and training opportunities in mental health services for staff across different disciplines;
the use of on-line questionnaires for mental health screening and video conferencing for talking therapies interventions and to inform conversations between diabetes health care professionals and people living with diabetes on their current mental health and coping strategies;
on-line self-help psychological support and psychological education regarding emotional and mental health offered to individuals to help empower them to manage their emotional and mental health;
signposting opportunities to resources such as the Public Health Agency’s “Take 5 Steps to well-being” and “Steps to Deal with Stress” and signposting to the NI Minding your head.info website and mindfulness exercises.
In relation to improving education in schools about diabetes, there is close co-operation between schools and local HSC Trusts to ensure a child who is living with diabetes can participate fully in school activities and that the school has access to the information required to help support the child.
When a child is diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, the child and their family receive education and information about how to manage their diabetes. The child is then offered a group based programme of structured education (the CHOICE programme) in the first six months following diagnosis.
The school the child attends also receives education, information and advice from the diabetic specialist nurse about how the child’s diabetes should be managed in a school setting. All children with diabetes have an individual healthcare plan that describes the care the child should receive while in school. There is also a communication booklet which enables the parent to advise on the daily doses of insulin required for their child’s dietary requirements. There is a regionally agreed format for the health care plan and communication booklets used in all schools in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011864%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319833","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319833"}},{"id":"319832","reference":"AQW 11863/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-10","answerBy":"2020-12-29","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, pursuant to AQW 9854/17-22, what plans she has to extend the use for deaf people of the video relay service to the private sector.","answerText":"My Department is committed to addressing issues of accessibility for the Deaf community and officials continue to consider options to improve and expand local British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language interpreter support. This includes consideration of expanding current Video Relay Service provision across all sectors, including the private sector.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to addressing issues of accessibility for the Deaf community and officials continue to consider options to improve and expand local British Sign Language and Irish Sign Language interpreter support. This includes consideration of expanding current Video Relay Service provision across all sectors, including the private sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011863%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319832","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319832"}},{"id":"319831","reference":"AQW 11862/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-10","answerBy":"2020-12-29","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action he is taking to (i) reduce stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS; and (ii) reduce the trauma and anxiety currently being reported by those with HIV/AIDS due to the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency provides public information about sexual health issues, including HIV. The delivery of HIV Awareness Training in HSC Trusts contributes to addressing the stigma surrounding HIV. Each year PHA working in partnership with the Sexual Health Information Network raise awareness across Northern Ireland during World Aids Day (1st Dec) and during Northern Ireland’s sexual health week (February).\n\nMy Department funds a number of voluntary organisations that raise awareness of HIV, and provide information and support services to those living with or affected by HIV.\n\nDuring COVID-19 funded organisations such as Rainbow, Sail and Positive Life have seen increase demand on the support services they deliver through PHA contracts across Northern Ireland. Our providers have had to be creative not only moving their service to online as well as limited face to face sessions but also providing innovative virtual workshops and sessions to meet new demands. All our providers have insured there has been no disruption to their services and that their usual delivery and increased delivery continues on a virtual and face to face basis.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency provides public information about sexual health issues, including HIV. The delivery of HIV Awareness Training in HSC Trusts contributes to addressing the stigma surrounding HIV. Each year PHA working in partnership with the Sexual Health Information Network raise awareness across Northern Ireland during World Aids Day (1st Dec) and during Northern Ireland’s sexual health week (February).
My Department funds a number of voluntary organisations that raise awareness of HIV, and provide information and support services to those living with or affected by HIV.
During COVID-19 funded organisations such as Rainbow, Sail and Positive Life have seen increase demand on the support services they deliver through PHA contracts across Northern Ireland. Our providers have had to be creative not only moving their service to online as well as limited face to face sessions but also providing innovative virtual workshops and sessions to meet new demands. All our providers have insured there has been no disruption to their services and that their usual delivery and increased delivery continues on a virtual and face to face basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011862%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319831","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319831"}},{"id":"319830","reference":"AQW 11861/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-10","answerBy":"2020-12-29","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what communication has been delivered (i) publically; and (ii) individually regarding (a) the laws and penalties around the persecution of certain breeds of birds of prey, in particular with groups and organisations who regard these birds as a threat or pests; and (b) the benefits and enjoyment that can be had from the survival and thriving of these birds.","answerText":"My Department delivers the majority of its wildlife crime awareness publicity, including that relating to birds of prey, through its work the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime, Northern Ireland (PAW NI). This partnership approach to providing information to the public is more productive with the combined partners’ memberships and social media following, leading to a potential audience exceeding half a million people across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe membership of PAW NI comprises representatives from government departments, conservation organisations, farming and country sports bodies enabling messaging to be conveyed back to their memberships. There is a separate PAW NI raptor sub-group, which brings together those organisations with a particular interest in birds of prey.\n\nThrough this work the Department has helped develop and fund 12 wildlife crime leaflets, with another two in development. These leaflets cover the common wildlife crime issues, aiming to inform the public what a wildlife crime is and how to report it. The Department funds and maintains the PAW NI website which hosts general advice on what constitutes a wildlife crime and how to report it, links to the leaflets and reports detailing incidents of wildlife crime impacting birds of prey and badgers across Northern Ireland.\n\nAll our birds of prey are protected under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985. The Department has published a layman’s guide to wildlife law called, ‘Wildlife Law and You’ and this provides a generic overview for the public of a complex area of legislation. This publication is available on the DAERA, PSNI and PAW NI websites, as well as linked from many of those of our partners.\n\nNIEA Wildlife Officers answer a large volume of telephone and email enquiries from the public. They also attend a number of public events throughout the year were they get a chance to meet and talk to the public and various interest groups. They promote key messages on birds of prey being an important component of our ecosystems, acting as important indicators of the general state of our biodiversity and health of our environment, and their vulnerability to persecution. Where a group or organisation requests a talk on an appropriate topic, DAERA staff will endeavour to accommodate these requests.","answerHtml":"My Department delivers the majority of its wildlife crime awareness publicity, including that relating to birds of prey, through its work the Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime, Northern Ireland (PAW NI). This partnership approach to providing information to the public is more productive with the combined partners’ memberships and social media following, leading to a potential audience exceeding half a million people across Northern Ireland.
The membership of PAW NI comprises representatives from government departments, conservation organisations, farming and country sports bodies enabling messaging to be conveyed back to their memberships. There is a separate PAW NI raptor sub-group, which brings together those organisations with a particular interest in birds of prey.
Through this work the Department has helped develop and fund 12 wildlife crime leaflets, with another two in development. These leaflets cover the common wildlife crime issues, aiming to inform the public what a wildlife crime is and how to report it. The Department funds and maintains the PAW NI website which hosts general advice on what constitutes a wildlife crime and how to report it, links to the leaflets and reports detailing incidents of wildlife crime impacting birds of prey and badgers across Northern Ireland.
All our birds of prey are protected under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985. The Department has published a layman’s guide to wildlife law called, ‘Wildlife Law and You’ and this provides a generic overview for the public of a complex area of legislation. This publication is available on the DAERA, PSNI and PAW NI websites, as well as linked from many of those of our partners.
NIEA Wildlife Officers answer a large volume of telephone and email enquiries from the public. They also attend a number of public events throughout the year were they get a chance to meet and talk to the public and various interest groups. They promote key messages on birds of prey being an important component of our ecosystems, acting as important indicators of the general state of our biodiversity and health of our environment, and their vulnerability to persecution. Where a group or organisation requests a talk on an appropriate topic, DAERA staff will endeavour to accommodate these requests.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319830","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319830"}},{"id":"319829","reference":"AQW 11860/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-10","answerBy":"2020-12-29","answered":"2021-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 10407/17-22, what considerations he has given to increasing funding, either directly or via supporting the NI Raptor Study Group, for the provision of greater security, potentially with technology such as cameras, in relation to preventing and penalising the persecution of birds of prey, in particular the hen harrier.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group (NIRSG) undertakes valuable raptor conservation and monitoring work across Northern Ireland. The NIRSG has received payments from the DAERA-administered Environment Fund. This money, and previous Departmental financial assistance, provided support to assist the group with their work.\n\nThe persecution of birds of prey is regarded as a serious wildlife crime and reports are thoroughly investigated by the PSNI. The Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime NI (PAW NI) provides an opportunity for the PSNI to work in partnership with statutory and non-statutory agencies to combat wildlife crime.\n\nThe structure of PAW NI includes a number of sub groups, including one that deals specifically with birds of prey and related crime. Departmental officials are members of this subgroup and one of its recent projects (Hawkeyes) includes the monitoring of raptor nest sites by remote cameras. The project also deploys remote tracking devices on birds of prey to monitor their movements, and ultimately aims to promote awareness of raptor persecution in Northern Ireland. Funding was provided by the Department of Justice through their Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) which distributes the proceeds of crime to help various community projects.\n\nIn addition to this, the PSNI have been undertaking an annual campaign known as “Operation Peregrine Watch” in order to carry out surveillance using drones, cameras and deployed additional police patrols supported by raptor study group volunteers across Northern Ireland. This is undertaken annually at peregrine falcon nesting sites to both prevent, detect, and reduce crimes against this species.\n\nApplications for financial assistance to the Environment Fund are open to a wide range of groups, and each application is considered individually by the NIEA Grants team in conjunction with an allocated client officer. The Department is happy to consider any future requests for financial assistance from groups who can assist the work of the PSNI, DAERA and PAW NI towards decreasing levels of raptor persecution in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Raptor Study Group (NIRSG) undertakes valuable raptor conservation and monitoring work across Northern Ireland. The NIRSG has received payments from the DAERA-administered Environment Fund. This money, and previous Departmental financial assistance, provided support to assist the group with their work.
The persecution of birds of prey is regarded as a serious wildlife crime and reports are thoroughly investigated by the PSNI. The Partnership for Action Against Wildlife Crime NI (PAW NI) provides an opportunity for the PSNI to work in partnership with statutory and non-statutory agencies to combat wildlife crime.
The structure of PAW NI includes a number of sub groups, including one that deals specifically with birds of prey and related crime. Departmental officials are members of this subgroup and one of its recent projects (Hawkeyes) includes the monitoring of raptor nest sites by remote cameras. The project also deploys remote tracking devices on birds of prey to monitor their movements, and ultimately aims to promote awareness of raptor persecution in Northern Ireland. Funding was provided by the Department of Justice through their Assets Recovery Community Scheme (ARCS) which distributes the proceeds of crime to help various community projects.
In addition to this, the PSNI have been undertaking an annual campaign known as “Operation Peregrine Watch” in order to carry out surveillance using drones, cameras and deployed additional police patrols supported by raptor study group volunteers across Northern Ireland. This is undertaken annually at peregrine falcon nesting sites to both prevent, detect, and reduce crimes against this species.
Applications for financial assistance to the Environment Fund are open to a wide range of groups, and each application is considered individually by the NIEA Grants team in conjunction with an allocated client officer. The Department is happy to consider any future requests for financial assistance from groups who can assist the work of the PSNI, DAERA and PAW NI towards decreasing levels of raptor persecution in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011860%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319829"}},{"id":"319689","reference":"AQW 11795/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-09","answerBy":"2020-12-24","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) when will she release guidance on the return to campus for semester two for students in higher education; (ii) how does the she plan to engage with student representatives over the development of these plans; and (iii) what communication has her Department had with other jurisdictions in the UK around the return to campus for semester two.","answerText":"The Department for Health has lead responsibility for guidance in relation to the safety of students and the wider public.\n\nThere are a number of cross-cutting issues related to student travel and welfare and the Executive Office has been asked to co-ordinate these plans, with a Task and Finish Group established to do so, which my officials have been involved in, alongside a variety of other Departments.\n\nThere is guidance, approved by my Health and Executive Office colleagues, for students travelling at Christmas time and the NUS-SUI were given sight of this draft guidance for comment. The feedback provided included a call for clarity in relation to the return which has been fed back into the TEO led task group.\n\nIt is intended they will be consulted, in regards to any further guidance, to provide messaging to students to best ensure compliance.\n\nDepartmental officials have been meeting with the other devolved administrations twice weekly to discuss plans and to ensure consistency of message (where possible).","answerHtml":"The Department for Health has lead responsibility for guidance in relation to the safety of students and the wider public.
There are a number of cross-cutting issues related to student travel and welfare and the Executive Office has been asked to co-ordinate these plans, with a Task and Finish Group established to do so, which my officials have been involved in, alongside a variety of other Departments.
There is guidance, approved by my Health and Executive Office colleagues, for students travelling at Christmas time and the NUS-SUI were given sight of this draft guidance for comment. The feedback provided included a call for clarity in relation to the return which has been fed back into the TEO led task group.
It is intended they will be consulted, in regards to any further guidance, to provide messaging to students to best ensure compliance.
Departmental officials have been meeting with the other devolved administrations twice weekly to discuss plans and to ensure consistency of message (where possible).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011795%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319689","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319689"}},{"id":"319688","reference":"AQW 11794/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-09","answerBy":"2020-12-24","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail what communications she has already had with (i) student bodies/organisations; (ii) universities; and (iii) individual students about students’ return for semester two.","answerText":"The Department for Health has lead responsibility for guidance in relation to the safety of students and the wider public. There are a number of cross-cutting issues related to student travel and welfare and the Executive Office has been asked to co-ordinate these plans, with a Task and Finish Group established to do so, which my officials have been involved in, alongside a variety of other Departments.\n\nThere is guidance, approved by my Health and Executive Office colleagues, for students travelling at Christmas time and the NUS-SUI were given sight of this draft guidance for comment. The feedback provided included a call for clarity in relation to the return which has been fed back into the TEO led task group. It is intended they will be consulted, in regards to any further guidance, to provide messaging to students to best ensure compliance.\n\nThere has been engagement with the local HE providers around their plans for semester 2 in relation to term start dates and percentage of face to face delivery planned to feed into any wider guidance produced by the Task Group.\n\nMy Department has had no discussions with individual students and there are no plans to do so.","answerHtml":"The Department for Health has lead responsibility for guidance in relation to the safety of students and the wider public. There are a number of cross-cutting issues related to student travel and welfare and the Executive Office has been asked to co-ordinate these plans, with a Task and Finish Group established to do so, which my officials have been involved in, alongside a variety of other Departments.
There is guidance, approved by my Health and Executive Office colleagues, for students travelling at Christmas time and the NUS-SUI were given sight of this draft guidance for comment. The feedback provided included a call for clarity in relation to the return which has been fed back into the TEO led task group. It is intended they will be consulted, in regards to any further guidance, to provide messaging to students to best ensure compliance.
There has been engagement with the local HE providers around their plans for semester 2 in relation to term start dates and percentage of face to face delivery planned to feed into any wider guidance produced by the Task Group.
My Department has had no discussions with individual students and there are no plans to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011794%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319688","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319688"}},{"id":"319686","reference":"AQW 11792/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-09","answerBy":"2020-12-24","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what consideration she has given to reducing the five-week wait for a first Universal Credit claim; (ii) what action has she taken on this issue; and (iii) when action on this waiting period will happen.","answerText":"There are a number of measures in place to mitigate the impact of the 5 week wait for payment of UC. Any person experiencing financial difficulties can apply for an Advance Payment (an interest free payment) where advances, worth up to 100 per cent of a person’s indicative award, are available, if there is a need. Advance payments are deducted over a period of 12 months and from October 2021, the payback period for these advances will be extended further, up to sixteen months. To guard against hardship, the repayment amount was reduced from 40% to 30% of the standard allowance in October 2019. Furthermore, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the standard allowance entitlement was increased, from 6 April for one year, by £86.67 per month for everyone claiming Universal Credit.\n\nSince 22nd July 2020, people who move to Universal Credit will have their existing legacy benefit continue for two weeks with no requirement to repay the overlay. A similar run-on is also in place for Housing Benefit claimants who move to Universal Credit as a result of a change of circumstances.\n\nIn addition a person claiming UC can apply for a Contingency payment. From 1st January 2020, the Department removed the requirement that people must take out a Universal Credit advance payment before being eligible for a payment from the Universal Credit Contingency Fund. To help simplify the process for making claims to the Universal Credit Contingency Fund an online claim form was recently introduced in addition to the pre-existing telephony based application process. This online form was co-designed in collaboration with the Voluntary and Community Sector.\n\nTo help promote the different options available, each person who makes a new claim to Universal Credit is advised of the availability of the Universal Credit Contingency Fund and how to apply via their Universal Credit journal.\n\nMy Department continues to monitor the effectiveness of the various support measures that are available for people claiming Universal Credit.","answerHtml":"There are a number of measures in place to mitigate the impact of the 5 week wait for payment of UC. Any person experiencing financial difficulties can apply for an Advance Payment (an interest free payment) where advances, worth up to 100 per cent of a person’s indicative award, are available, if there is a need. Advance payments are deducted over a period of 12 months and from October 2021, the payback period for these advances will be extended further, up to sixteen months. To guard against hardship, the repayment amount was reduced from 40% to 30% of the standard allowance in October 2019. Furthermore, in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the standard allowance entitlement was increased, from 6 April for one year, by £86.67 per month for everyone claiming Universal Credit.
Since 22nd July 2020, people who move to Universal Credit will have their existing legacy benefit continue for two weeks with no requirement to repay the overlay. A similar run-on is also in place for Housing Benefit claimants who move to Universal Credit as a result of a change of circumstances.
In addition a person claiming UC can apply for a Contingency payment. From 1st January 2020, the Department removed the requirement that people must take out a Universal Credit advance payment before being eligible for a payment from the Universal Credit Contingency Fund. To help simplify the process for making claims to the Universal Credit Contingency Fund an online claim form was recently introduced in addition to the pre-existing telephony based application process. This online form was co-designed in collaboration with the Voluntary and Community Sector.
To help promote the different options available, each person who makes a new claim to Universal Credit is advised of the availability of the Universal Credit Contingency Fund and how to apply via their Universal Credit journal.
My Department continues to monitor the effectiveness of the various support measures that are available for people claiming Universal Credit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011792%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319686","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319686"}},{"id":"319685","reference":"AQW 11791/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-09","answerBy":"2020-12-24","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what assessment has been made of how much (a) intra-Northern Ireland tourism; (b) UK/ROI-tourism; and (c) foreign tourism has contributed to the spread of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland; and (ii) how this might inform future policy on COVID regulations.","answerText":"There has been no specific assessment of how tourism alone has contributed to the spread of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.\n\nThe Executive maintains an ongoing process of review of the coronavirus restrictions regulations, which considers both the current level of the pandemic and the impact the restrictions have on the economy and society, and it is the Executive’s clear intention not to retain restrictions for any longer than is absolutely necessary.","answerHtml":"There has been no specific assessment of how tourism alone has contributed to the spread of COVID-19 in Northern Ireland.
The Executive, when making decisions on restrictions, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence and also the impacts of the restrictions on the economy and society. The Executive weighs up the totality of the effect each restriction can have in combination with other restrictions in reducing the rate of infections of COVID-19. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own.
The Executive maintains an ongoing process of review of the coronavirus restrictions regulations, which considers both the current level of the pandemic and the impact the restrictions have on the economy and society, and it is the Executive’s clear intention not to retain restrictions for any longer than is absolutely necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011791%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319685","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319685"}},{"id":"319506","reference":"AQW 11706/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-08","answerBy":"2020-12-11","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether dance studios will be able to open again from 12 December 2020, and under what circumstances.","answerText":"From 11th December until Boxing Day, dance studios and classes are able to resume but in very specific circumstances.\n\nAs COVID-19 is spread by respiratory droplets, group indoor sports, exercise activities and dance that have high levels of exertion (that is those which cause participants to get out of breath) are not permitted under the current regulations.\n\nThe current law provides that indoors, individual activity (including with a coach/ trainer, or carer), and non-contact activities of up to 15 people that do not cause an individual to get out of breath are permitted.\n\nIt would be an option for dance teachers to consider a programme designed not to leave participants out-of-breath. Dance studios are responsible for ensuring that any activity they organise is within the limits of the law.\n\nThe Executive has determined that for the six weeks from Boxing Day, restrictions will be placed on a range of activities. Dance is one of the activities that will be included in those restrictions and dance studios will be required to close during that six week period.","answerHtml":"From 11th December until Boxing Day, dance studios and classes are able to resume but in very specific circumstances.
As COVID-19 is spread by respiratory droplets, group indoor sports, exercise activities and dance that have high levels of exertion (that is those which cause participants to get out of breath) are not permitted under the current regulations.
The current law provides that indoors, individual activity (including with a coach/ trainer, or carer), and non-contact activities of up to 15 people that do not cause an individual to get out of breath are permitted.
It would be an option for dance teachers to consider a programme designed not to leave participants out-of-breath. Dance studios are responsible for ensuring that any activity they organise is within the limits of the law.
The Executive has determined that for the six weeks from Boxing Day, restrictions will be placed on a range of activities. Dance is one of the activities that will be included in those restrictions and dance studios will be required to close during that six week period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011706%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319506"}},{"id":"319505","reference":"AQW 11705/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-08","answerBy":"2020-12-23","answered":"2020-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what discussions she has had with eFlow about potential issues arising from Brexit on billing schemes, including automated tolling, for customers from Northern Ireland using tolled roads in the Republic of Ireland; and (ii) how she has communicated to drivers the changes proposed by eFlow that Northern Irish drivers should make in order that they remain able to use the automated tolling process.","answerText":"I am deeply concerned about the implications of Brexit for motorists on the island of Ireland and the free movement of goods and people.\n\nIn relation to eFlow, my Department does not hold the details of eFlow customers. I would advise motorists to contact the company directly over any concerns around the service provided.","answerHtml":"I am deeply concerned about the implications of Brexit for motorists on the island of Ireland and the free movement of goods and people.
In relation to eFlow, my Department does not hold the details of eFlow customers. I would advise motorists to contact the company directly over any concerns around the service provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011705%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319505"}},{"id":"319504","reference":"AQW 11704/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-08","answerBy":"2020-12-23","answered":"2020-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether patients over 65 who, in the last two years, have had (a) latent tuberculosis; (b) pneumonia; (c) bronchiectasis; or (d) recurrent chest infections, will be prioritised in the COVID-19 vaccination process; (ii) in what way will they be prioritised; (iii) how this will be communicated to those affected; and (iv) how this will be carried out.","answerText":"Vaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers.\n\nJCVI advice on prioritisation of the vaccine was published on 2nd December 2020. The ranking of priorities is a combination of clinical risk stratification and an age-based approach, which should optimise both targeting and deliverability.\n\nJCVI has advised that the first priorities for the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of mortality and the maintenance of the health and social care systems. As the risk of mortality from COVID-19 increases with age, prioritisation is primarily based on age.\n\nMany of those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (high risk) are in the oldest age groups and will be among the first to receive vaccine. From early January 2021, subject to the availability of a suitable vaccine, it is intended to roll out the programme through primary care led vaccination clinics which will be responsible for the vaccination of those considered most at risk, which will include the majority of people who were on the vulnerable list.\n\nGPs will be responsible for inviting their patients to attend for vaccination which will be largely similar to the annual flu vaccination programme.","answerHtml":"Vaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers.
JCVI advice on prioritisation of the vaccine was published on 2nd December 2020. The ranking of priorities is a combination of clinical risk stratification and an age-based approach, which should optimise both targeting and deliverability.
JCVI has advised that the first priorities for the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of mortality and the maintenance of the health and social care systems. As the risk of mortality from COVID-19 increases with age, prioritisation is primarily based on age.
Many of those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (high risk) are in the oldest age groups and will be among the first to receive vaccine. From early January 2021, subject to the availability of a suitable vaccine, it is intended to roll out the programme through primary care led vaccination clinics which will be responsible for the vaccination of those considered most at risk, which will include the majority of people who were on the vulnerable list.
GPs will be responsible for inviting their patients to attend for vaccination which will be largely similar to the annual flu vaccination programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011704%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319504"}},{"id":"319503","reference":"AQW 11703/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-08","answerBy":"2020-12-23","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the scientific rationale behind limiting the delivery of hot food to 11:00pm, as per the current regulations.","answerText":"This is not within my Department’s remit. This is for the Department for Health to answer.","answerHtml":"This is not within my Department’s remit. This is for the Department for Health to answer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011703%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319503"}},{"id":"319502","reference":"AQW 11702/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-08","answerBy":"2020-12-23","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) whether she has plans to remove the 11:00pm curfew on hot food delivery, bringing Northern Ireland in line with the rest of the UK and enabling shift workers, including those in many front-line services such as medical staff, to get hot food delivered after 11:00pm; and (ii) whether she sees this as a fairer way to treat businesses who primarily operate at night.","answerText":"These matters are not within the remit of my department.","answerHtml":"These matters are not within the remit of my department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011702%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319502"}},{"id":"319366","reference":"AQW 11633/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-07","answerBy":"2020-12-22","answered":"2020-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether (i) patients over 65 with, or who have suffered from in the previous two years, (a) latent tuberculosis; (b) pneumonia; (c) bronchiectasis; or (d) repeated chest infections, will be considered at high risk from COVID-19; and (ii) they will be put forward for quicker treatment with the COVID-19 vaccine.","answerText":"There is a published list that details those at higher risk from coronavirus. The list is not exhaustive and may change as we learn more about the virus. This can be found at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/people-at-higher-risk/whos-at-higher-risk-from-coronavirus/\n\nVaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers.\n\nJCVI advice on prioritisation of the vaccine was published on 2nd December 2020. The ranking of priorities is a combination of clinical risk stratification and an age-based approach, which should optimise both targeting and deliverability.\n\nJCVI has advised that the first priorities for the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of mortality and the maintenance of the health and social care systems. As the risk of mortality from COVID-19 increases with age, prioritisation is primarily based on age.\n\nMany of those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (high risk) are in the oldest age groups and will be among the first to receive vaccine. From early January 2021, subject to the availability of a suitable vaccine, it is intended to roll out the programme through primary care led vaccination clinics which will be responsible for the vaccination of those considered most at risk, which will include the majority of people who were on the vulnerable list.","answerHtml":"There is a published list that details those at higher risk from coronavirus. The list is not exhaustive and may change as we learn more about the virus. This can be found at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/coronavirus-covid-19/people-at-higher-risk/whos-at-higher-risk-from-coronavirus/
Vaccination policy in Northern Ireland is based on the recommendations and advice provided by the independent Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) which advises the 4 UK Health Ministers.
JCVI advice on prioritisation of the vaccine was published on 2nd December 2020. The ranking of priorities is a combination of clinical risk stratification and an age-based approach, which should optimise both targeting and deliverability.
JCVI has advised that the first priorities for the COVID-19 vaccination programme should be the prevention of mortality and the maintenance of the health and social care systems. As the risk of mortality from COVID-19 increases with age, prioritisation is primarily based on age.
Many of those who are clinically extremely vulnerable (high risk) are in the oldest age groups and will be among the first to receive vaccine. From early January 2021, subject to the availability of a suitable vaccine, it is intended to roll out the programme through primary care led vaccination clinics which will be responsible for the vaccination of those considered most at risk, which will include the majority of people who were on the vulnerable list.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011633%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319366"}},{"id":"319365","reference":"AQW 11632/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-07","answerBy":"2020-12-22","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the measures he is taking to promote and ensure the eradication of ragwort; (ii) the dangers posed to livestock and people by the weed; (iii) what conversations he has had with local councils and private landowners to combat the spread of ragwort; and (iv) the support he is providing to eradicate the weed.","answerText":"The Department issues Notices to landowners to control ragwort where agricultural land is threatened from its spread under The Noxious Weeds (Northern Ireland) Order 1977. Failure to comply with a notice could result in prosecution or a reduction in basic farm payment. Where ragwort is established as a native plant in the wider environment and is deemed to pose no threat to agricultural land the Department does not require eradication of the plant per se.\n\nRagwort ingestion through grazing infested agricultural land can cause liver toxicity in cattle, horses and sheep. Hay or silage from badly infested pastures when fed to livestock presents increased risks to animal health as this is more palatable to animals.\n\nRagwort is not intrinsically dangerous to human health. Department guidance on controlling ragwort spread encourages people to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when taking measures to control the plant.\n\nThe Department does not provide direct support for the removal of ragwort as the responsibility for its control, following the issue of a notice, rests with the landowner. To assist landowners in undertaking their responsibilities, the Department engages a Noxious Weed Awareness Campaign each spring. This is to raise awareness with landowners, local councils and the public on the need to control ragwort and the risks it presents to animal health.\n\nAdvice on control measures to prevent weed spread is made available through mail shots, poster distribution and press articles. Information and guidance on effective methods of controlling ragwort is available on the DAERA website.","answerHtml":"The Department issues Notices to landowners to control ragwort where agricultural land is threatened from its spread under The Noxious Weeds (Northern Ireland) Order 1977. Failure to comply with a notice could result in prosecution or a reduction in basic farm payment. Where ragwort is established as a native plant in the wider environment and is deemed to pose no threat to agricultural land the Department does not require eradication of the plant per se.
Ragwort ingestion through grazing infested agricultural land can cause liver toxicity in cattle, horses and sheep. Hay or silage from badly infested pastures when fed to livestock presents increased risks to animal health as this is more palatable to animals.
Ragwort is not intrinsically dangerous to human health. Department guidance on controlling ragwort spread encourages people to wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) when taking measures to control the plant.
The Department does not provide direct support for the removal of ragwort as the responsibility for its control, following the issue of a notice, rests with the landowner. To assist landowners in undertaking their responsibilities, the Department engages a Noxious Weed Awareness Campaign each spring. This is to raise awareness with landowners, local councils and the public on the need to control ragwort and the risks it presents to animal health.
Advice on control measures to prevent weed spread is made available through mail shots, poster distribution and press articles. Information and guidance on effective methods of controlling ragwort is available on the DAERA website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011632%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319365","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319365"}},{"id":"319364","reference":"AQW 11631/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-07","answerBy":"2020-12-22","answered":"2021-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) how households and home-workers will be informed of interruptions to their internet supply during local work on the Fibrus broadband scheme; (ii) how much notice they will be given of the interruption; and (iii) whether they will be given an estimate of how long they will be without an internet supply for.","answerText":"There is no expectation of interruptions to consumers existing broadband connections during the build phase of Project Stratum. The Fibrus network is a new broadband installation and will not impact households and homeworkers broadband from their current Internet Service Provider. Any interruption would only take place when a consumer decides to switch supplier. It is recommended that consumers keep their existing broadband connection live until any new connection is installed, tested and signed off, to ensure there is no service interruption.\n\nA Portal has been developed by Fibrus Networks to provide key information throughout the development phase of the project, which is being accelerated across a period of some 40 months. This can be accessed at www.hyperfastni.com and will enable citizens and businesses to confirm if/when their premises are included for upgrade. The website will be updated and expanded in the weeks ahead.","answerHtml":"There is no expectation of interruptions to consumers existing broadband connections during the build phase of Project Stratum. The Fibrus network is a new broadband installation and will not impact households and homeworkers broadband from their current Internet Service Provider. Any interruption would only take place when a consumer decides to switch supplier. It is recommended that consumers keep their existing broadband connection live until any new connection is installed, tested and signed off, to ensure there is no service interruption.
A Portal has been developed by Fibrus Networks to provide key information throughout the development phase of the project, which is being accelerated across a period of some 40 months. This can be accessed at www.hyperfastni.com and will enable citizens and businesses to confirm if/when their premises are included for upgrade. The website will be updated and expanded in the weeks ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011631%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319364","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319364"}},{"id":"319363","reference":"AQW 11630/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-07","answerBy":"2020-12-22","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the reopening of theatres; (ii) what conversations she has had with the arts community on this subject; and (iii) to detail any future plans for funding support beyond that already announced.","answerText":"Theatres and concert halls are permitted to open for rehearsals or live recording without an audience and much great work has continued to be done.\n\nI have engaged with people right across the arts sector and I have heard directly the impact the closure of theatres has had on the staff who normally work there. I also recognise the impact the restriction has had on theatre audiences.\n\nDecisions in relation to restrictions are matters for the Executive. The restrictions are aimed at mitigating the risks of transmission of the virus; they are intended to be temporary in nature and will be relaxed and ultimately removed as soon as circumstances allow.\n\nI will continue to provide support to the organisations and individuals who work across the arts and wider creative economy. Since the COVID-19 restrictions have been in place the Arts Council, on behalf of my department, has:\n\ndelivered two programmes for individuals, with grants totalling £4.427m being paid to 1313 individuals;\n\ndelivered two rounds of funding for organisations, with grants totalling £2.85m to 212 organisations; and\n\ndelivered two capital programmes for arts and cultural organisations to help them prepare to safely reopen following the Covid-19 pandemic, with grants totalling £1,075,335 to 108 organisations.\n\nA further significant programme, the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations closed to applications on 27 November and a third programme for individuals will open on 17 December. Information on this programme is available already on the Arts Council website.","answerHtml":"Theatres and concert halls are permitted to open for rehearsals or live recording without an audience and much great work has continued to be done.
I have engaged with people right across the arts sector and I have heard directly the impact the closure of theatres has had on the staff who normally work there. I also recognise the impact the restriction has had on theatre audiences.
Decisions in relation to restrictions are matters for the Executive. The restrictions are aimed at mitigating the risks of transmission of the virus; they are intended to be temporary in nature and will be relaxed and ultimately removed as soon as circumstances allow.
I will continue to provide support to the organisations and individuals who work across the arts and wider creative economy. Since the COVID-19 restrictions have been in place the Arts Council, on behalf of my department, has:
delivered two programmes for individuals, with grants totalling £4.427m being paid to 1313 individuals;
delivered two rounds of funding for organisations, with grants totalling £2.85m to 212 organisations; and
delivered two capital programmes for arts and cultural organisations to help them prepare to safely reopen following the Covid-19 pandemic, with grants totalling £1,075,335 to 108 organisations.
A further significant programme, the Stability and Renewal Programme for Organisations closed to applications on 27 November and a third programme for individuals will open on 17 December. Information on this programme is available already on the Arts Council website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011630%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319363","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319363"}},{"id":"319362","reference":"AQW 11629/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-07","answerBy":"2020-12-22","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether community spaces such as church halls, community centres, and village halls can be used for private educational purposes, such as for those in further education to sit exams or aptitude tests, or for teaching English to migrants.","answerText":"My Department provides funding to develop, support and maintain a wide range of community owned and run facilities. The Department is not the owner of these facilities and does not seek to dictate or constrain their use. The premises listed in the question are in a variety of ownerships and their use will be determined by a number of factors, including management capacity, the charitable purposes of an organisation and an assessment of risk in line with any conditions of insurance or grant.","answerHtml":"My Department provides funding to develop, support and maintain a wide range of community owned and run facilities. The Department is not the owner of these facilities and does not seek to dictate or constrain their use. The premises listed in the question are in a variety of ownerships and their use will be determined by a number of factors, including management capacity, the charitable purposes of an organisation and an assessment of risk in line with any conditions of insurance or grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011629%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319362","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319362"}},{"id":"319115","reference":"AQW 11572/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-04","answerBy":"2020-12-21","answered":"2020-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the reason for medical and dental students from Northern Ireland receiving reduced financial support in the form of grants, loans and bursaries in the final two years of a five or six year course; (ii) how these students are expected to cover living costs, especially with increased studying hours during these years of study; and (iii) whether she accepts that, while the NHS pays these students’ fees during these final years, this does not help them survive financially in the short term.","answerText":"I can respond as follows:\n\nHealth and student finance are devolved matters. The financial support available to medical and dental students varies across the regions of the UK depending upon where they are ordinarily resident. Policy reflects the resources available to each healthcare administration, their view how best to direct these resources, and assessment of workforce supply priorities.\n\nStudents may be able to access a maintenance loan and travel grant, according to individual circumstances, through the Student Loans Company\n\nIn considering the appropriateness of this Department’s support for students, I think it relevant to note that there are very low rates of attrition out of these heavily oversubscribed medicine and dentistry programmes.","answerHtml":"I can respond as follows:
Health and student finance are devolved matters. The financial support available to medical and dental students varies across the regions of the UK depending upon where they are ordinarily resident. Policy reflects the resources available to each healthcare administration, their view how best to direct these resources, and assessment of workforce supply priorities.
Students may be able to access a maintenance loan and travel grant, according to individual circumstances, through the Student Loans Company
In considering the appropriateness of this Department’s support for students, I think it relevant to note that there are very low rates of attrition out of these heavily oversubscribed medicine and dentistry programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011572%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319115"}},{"id":"319114","reference":"AQW 11571/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-04","answerBy":"2020-12-21","answered":"2020-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) what steps she has taken to encourage more students from Northern Ireland to pursue courses or careers in the medical professions; and (ii) what conversations she has had with the Minister of Health in relation to the above issue.","answerText":"The Department’s Careers Service provides an independent advice service to all people, including students, when they are considering their career choices. This would include advice on opportunities across the broad range of health and medical careers.\n\nHowever, my Department does not have specific responsibility for encouraging people to pursue courses or careers in the medical professions. At the higher education level, the Minister for Health has sole responsibility for quota-controlled courses in subjects allied to Medicine. For this reason, I have not had any conversations with him on this matter.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Careers Service provides an independent advice service to all people, including students, when they are considering their career choices. This would include advice on opportunities across the broad range of health and medical careers.
However, my Department does not have specific responsibility for encouraging people to pursue courses or careers in the medical professions. At the higher education level, the Minister for Health has sole responsibility for quota-controlled courses in subjects allied to Medicine. For this reason, I have not had any conversations with him on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011571%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319114"}},{"id":"319113","reference":"AQW 11570/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-04","answerBy":"2020-12-21","answered":"2021-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the support available for businesses to prepare for the end of the Brexit transition period for both a deal and no-deal Brexit scenario; (ii) how she has communicated this to businesses; and (iii) how it will be delivered in time for the deadline.","answerText":"I have been encouraging businesses to take whatever steps they can to prepare now, as there will be changes to their trading environment at the end of the transition period regardless of the outcome of FTA or Joint Committee negotiations. My Department has already made significant support available to businesses to prepare for EU exit through both Invest NI and InterTradeIreland and I continue to recommend that businesses visit these services and utilise the online Brexit tools, enrol for webinars, and if appropriate apply for EU Exit support vouchers. We have also ensured that the NI Business Info website provides an EU exit information that will help businesses prepare. I have also bid for further funding through DoF to HM Treasury to deliver further support to businesses in this and the next financial year. However, there has been no formal decision on these bids as yet. I continue to publicise these support measures online and through direct engagement with businesses. InvestNI and InterTradeIreland have also launched extensive communications campaigns making use of a range of media to encourage and support businesses to prepare for the end of the transition period. My Department will continue to provide advice, guidance and support to businesses in the months ahead in order that businesses can adjust to the new operating environment. Realistically, given the lack of clarity and time, it will be impossible for every business to be fully prepared by the end of the transition period. This is why it is vital to continue this work in the months ahead.","answerHtml":"I have been encouraging businesses to take whatever steps they can to prepare now, as there will be changes to their trading environment at the end of the transition period regardless of the outcome of FTA or Joint Committee negotiations. My Department has already made significant support available to businesses to prepare for EU exit through both Invest NI and InterTradeIreland and I continue to recommend that businesses visit these services and utilise the online Brexit tools, enrol for webinars, and if appropriate apply for EU Exit support vouchers. We have also ensured that the NI Business Info website provides an EU exit information that will help businesses prepare. I have also bid for further funding through DoF to HM Treasury to deliver further support to businesses in this and the next financial year. However, there has been no formal decision on these bids as yet. I continue to publicise these support measures online and through direct engagement with businesses. InvestNI and InterTradeIreland have also launched extensive communications campaigns making use of a range of media to encourage and support businesses to prepare for the end of the transition period. My Department will continue to provide advice, guidance and support to businesses in the months ahead in order that businesses can adjust to the new operating environment. Realistically, given the lack of clarity and time, it will be impossible for every business to be fully prepared by the end of the transition period. This is why it is vital to continue this work in the months ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011570%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319113"}},{"id":"319112","reference":"AQW 11569/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-04","answerBy":"2020-12-21","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the number of electric vehicle charge points in Northern Ireland which have been reported broken or have been out of use at any point during the past year; (ii) how long have or will those broken take to fix; and (iii) the projected cost of this.","answerText":"The e-car public charge point network in the North is owned, operated and maintained by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). For information in relation to the e-car public network, ESB can be contacted at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995.","answerHtml":"The e-car public charge point network in the North is owned, operated and maintained by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). For information in relation to the e-car public network, ESB can be contacted at ecars@esb.ie or enquiries can be sent directly to ESB, Two Gateway, East Wall Road, DUBLIN 3, D03 A995.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011569%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319112"}},{"id":"319111","reference":"AQW 11568/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-04","answerBy":"2020-12-21","answered":"2020-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the number of (a) hospital staff; and (b) intensive care staff that have resigned since March 2020; and (ii) the numbers of each that have cited stress as a factor in their decision to resign.","answerText":"Information on the number of Health and Social Care (HSC) staff who have resigned (includes those that transferred to another HSC organisation) between March 2020 and October 2020 is detailed in the table below. This information has been provided by HSC Trusts.\n\nHSC Trust Permanent Staff Leavers (Resignation, including Transfer to Other HSC Organisation), between March 2020 and October 2020\n\nHSC Trust\tHospital Leavers\tICU Leavers\nBelfast\t1,633 (1,495.4 WTE)\t15 (13.4 WTE)\nNorthern\t133 (110.7 WTE)\t0\nSouth Eastern\t166 (139.3 WTE)\t2 (2.0 WTE)\nSouthern\t166 (135.1 WTE)\t4 (3.0 WTE)\nWestern\t149 (126.8 WTE)\t6 (5.4 WTE)\n\nSource: Human Resources, Payroll, Travel & Subsistence (HRPTS) system\n\nIt is not possible to identify if stress has been a factor in a staff member’s decision to resign or leave a HSC organisation.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of Health and Social Care (HSC) staff who have resigned (includes those that transferred to another HSC organisation) between March 2020 and October 2020 is detailed in the table below. This information has been provided by HSC Trusts.
HSC Trust Permanent Staff Leavers (Resignation, including Transfer to Other HSC Organisation), between March 2020 and October 2020
| HSC Trust | Hospital Leavers | ICU Leavers |
| Belfast | 1,633 (1,495.4 WTE) | 15 (13.4 WTE) |
| Northern | 133 (110.7 WTE) | 0 |
| South Eastern | 166 (139.3 WTE) | 2 (2.0 WTE) |
| Southern | 166 (135.1 WTE) | 4 (3.0 WTE) |
| Western | 149 (126.8 WTE) | 6 (5.4 WTE) |
Source: Human Resources, Payroll, Travel & Subsistence (HRPTS) system
It is not possible to identify if stress has been a factor in a staff member’s decision to resign or leave a HSC organisation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011568%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=319111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=319111"}},{"id":"318889","reference":"AQW 11488/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-18","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she is aware of any issues or delays specific to Northern Ireland regarding the issuing of National Insurance numbers to migrants who wish to legally work; and how the speed of the application process in Northern Ireland differs from other regions of the UK.","answerText":"There are no specific issues or delays here in relation to the issuing of National Insurance numbers to migrants who wish to legally work here. You can start work without a National Insurance number if you can prove you have the right to work. In those cases where we are currently able to process a request for a National Insurance number, the applicant is allocated a number within 7 working days, against a target of 16 days. The Department for Work & Pensions target for processing is 15 days.\n\nIn order for a National Insurance number to be allocated, an individual’s identity must be verified. Application interviews for employment-related National Insurance numbers have been suspended due to the pandemic as they require a face to face interview in a Jobs & Benefits Office. These offices have been closed to the public with the exception of limited opening to deal with specific emergency situations.\n\nWe are allocating National Insurance numbers to non EU individuals who enter the country on a visa and have already had their identity verified as part of that process.\n\nWe are also continuing to process applications for benefit inspired National Insurance numbers by telephony, as this is required to pay benefits. Information provided by the person on their claim and information already held on our benefit systems is used to verify identity.\n\nThe National Insurance Number registration helpline (028 90 138286 or 028 90 138287) is available Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 4.00pm. The helpline is recording contact details for employment-related applicants so we can get in touch with people as soon as we are able to resume face-to-face interviews.\n\nIt is hoped the digital solution will be in place during 2021.","answerHtml":"There are no specific issues or delays here in relation to the issuing of National Insurance numbers to migrants who wish to legally work here. You can start work without a National Insurance number if you can prove you have the right to work. In those cases where we are currently able to process a request for a National Insurance number, the applicant is allocated a number within 7 working days, against a target of 16 days. The Department for Work & Pensions target for processing is 15 days.
In order for a National Insurance number to be allocated, an individual’s identity must be verified. Application interviews for employment-related National Insurance numbers have been suspended due to the pandemic as they require a face to face interview in a Jobs & Benefits Office. These offices have been closed to the public with the exception of limited opening to deal with specific emergency situations.
We are allocating National Insurance numbers to non EU individuals who enter the country on a visa and have already had their identity verified as part of that process.
We are also continuing to process applications for benefit inspired National Insurance numbers by telephony, as this is required to pay benefits. Information provided by the person on their claim and information already held on our benefit systems is used to verify identity.
The National Insurance Number registration helpline (028 90 138286 or 028 90 138287) is available Monday to Friday, 9.00am - 4.00pm. The helpline is recording contact details for employment-related applicants so we can get in touch with people as soon as we are able to resume face-to-face interviews.
It is hoped the digital solution will be in place during 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011488%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318889"}},{"id":"318888","reference":"AQW 11487/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-18","answered":"2020-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what percentage of private tenants in receipt of housing benefit have been evicted, or faced eviction, for non-payment of rent, previous to the temporary COVID-19 eviction law changes; and what assistance she is giving, and plans to give, to these tenants from falling behind in the payment of their rent.","answerText":"The Housing Executive does not record or hold information relating to private tenants in receipt of housing benefit who have been evicted, or faced eviction. It does however record the number of households who present as homeless due to loss of private rented accommodation (for whatever reason) and it has provided the table below which compares the numbers between April and November in 2019 and 2020, both in terms of presenters and those who were accepted as statutorily homeless.\n\nNIHE HOMELESS FIGURES DUE TO LOSS OF PRIVATE RENTED ACCOMMODATION\nPresenters\tAcceptances\n2019/20\t202/21\t2019/20\t2020/21\nApril\t200\t65\t127\t28\nMay\t208\t65\t129\t33\nJune\t182\t137\t109\t78\nJuly\t185\t120\t113\t59\nAugust\t179\t115\t120\t69\nSeptember\t180\t177\t106\t102\nOctober\t194\t138\t108\t76\nNovember\t144\t133\t89\t71\n\nIn April, Local Housing Allowance rates for Universal Credit and Housing Benefit claimants were increased to cover the lowest 30% of local market rents, following a four year freeze. This will increase choice and improve accessibility for benefit recipients in the private rented sector.\n\nIn certain circumstances Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) may provide additional financial assistance with housing costs to those already in receipt of either Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. The Housing Executive, as the administering authority, can consider making a DHP award to a claimant who is faces a shortfall in meeting the cost of their contractual rent because some form of restriction has been applied.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive does not record or hold information relating to private tenants in receipt of housing benefit who have been evicted, or faced eviction. It does however record the number of households who present as homeless due to loss of private rented accommodation (for whatever reason) and it has provided the table below which compares the numbers between April and November in 2019 and 2020, both in terms of presenters and those who were accepted as statutorily homeless.
| NIHE HOMELESS FIGURES DUE TO LOSS OF PRIVATE RENTED ACCOMMODATION | ||||
| Presenters | Acceptances | |||
| 2019/20 | 202/21 | 2019/20 | 2020/21 | |
| April | 200 | 65 | 127 | 28 |
| May | 208 | 65 | 129 | 33 |
| June | 182 | 137 | 109 | 78 |
| July | 185 | 120 | 113 | 59 |
| August | 179 | 115 | 120 | 69 |
| September | 180 | 177 | 106 | 102 |
| October | 194 | 138 | 108 | 76 |
| November | 144 | 133 | 89 | 71 |
In April, Local Housing Allowance rates for Universal Credit and Housing Benefit claimants were increased to cover the lowest 30% of local market rents, following a four year freeze. This will increase choice and improve accessibility for benefit recipients in the private rented sector.
In certain circumstances Discretionary Housing Payments (DHP) may provide additional financial assistance with housing costs to those already in receipt of either Housing Benefit or Universal Credit. The Housing Executive, as the administering authority, can consider making a DHP award to a claimant who is faces a shortfall in meeting the cost of their contractual rent because some form of restriction has been applied.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011487%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318888","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318888"}},{"id":"318887","reference":"AQW 11486/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-18","answered":"2020-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any conversations she has had with stakeholders in the business community regarding plans to increase the manufacturing sector; and what plans she has for increasing this sector.","answerText":"Manufacturing is very important to Northern Ireland. Manufacturing businesses employ over 87,000, and contribute *£6.5 Billion to exports. NI is known for its strengths in Aerospace, Materials Handling and Photonics manufacturing.\n\nWhile Covid-19 has impacted many manufacturing companies, the impact is variable across sectors and has been felt most keenly in aerospace. My economic recovery plan sets out my ambition to rebuild our economy through decisive interventions that deliver higher paid jobs, a highly skilled and agile workforce; and a regionally balanced economy.\n\nMy Department and Invest NI continue to work with and support companies to help them increase their manufacturing base through innovation, skills, trade and management development, and with the latest advances in digital manufacturing. My Department and Invest NI are also working with key stakeholders from manufacturing to ensure proposed manufacturing innovation centres within City Deals, meet the needs of the manufacturing industry.\n\nI have closely engaged with representatives of Northern Ireland Industry, Manufacturing NI, MPANI, trade unions and representatives of wider business, and will continue dialogue with these groups so that I fully understand the issues that confront the manufacturing sector, as well as hearing their suggestions and ideas for sectoral growth.\n\nGiven the substantial impact the pandemic has had on the aerospace sector, I am also engaged with my Scottish, Welsh and Whitehall counterparts, and with sector organisations such as ADS and the Aerospace Growth Partnership, to look at the needs of aerospace during this difficult time. While there are actions that we can take regionally to support aerospace through the pandemic and into recovery, I and my Executive colleagues, including the First and Deputy First Minister are engaged with Whitehall Ministers to ensure the difficulties faced by NI companies are heard and understood.\n\nI am fully committed to ensuring we build on our manufacturing strengths, seize opportunities to diversify where necessary, and support Northern Ireland companies to scale and compete globally as we recover from the pandemic.\n\n* Northern Ireland Broad Economy Sales and Export Statistics 2018, published 19 December 2019","answerHtml":"Manufacturing is very important to Northern Ireland. Manufacturing businesses employ over 87,000, and contribute *£6.5 Billion to exports. NI is known for its strengths in Aerospace, Materials Handling and Photonics manufacturing.
While Covid-19 has impacted many manufacturing companies, the impact is variable across sectors and has been felt most keenly in aerospace. My economic recovery plan sets out my ambition to rebuild our economy through decisive interventions that deliver higher paid jobs, a highly skilled and agile workforce; and a regionally balanced economy.
My Department and Invest NI continue to work with and support companies to help them increase their manufacturing base through innovation, skills, trade and management development, and with the latest advances in digital manufacturing. My Department and Invest NI are also working with key stakeholders from manufacturing to ensure proposed manufacturing innovation centres within City Deals, meet the needs of the manufacturing industry.
I have closely engaged with representatives of Northern Ireland Industry, Manufacturing NI, MPANI, trade unions and representatives of wider business, and will continue dialogue with these groups so that I fully understand the issues that confront the manufacturing sector, as well as hearing their suggestions and ideas for sectoral growth.
Given the substantial impact the pandemic has had on the aerospace sector, I am also engaged with my Scottish, Welsh and Whitehall counterparts, and with sector organisations such as ADS and the Aerospace Growth Partnership, to look at the needs of aerospace during this difficult time. While there are actions that we can take regionally to support aerospace through the pandemic and into recovery, I and my Executive colleagues, including the First and Deputy First Minister are engaged with Whitehall Ministers to ensure the difficulties faced by NI companies are heard and understood.
I am fully committed to ensuring we build on our manufacturing strengths, seize opportunities to diversify where necessary, and support Northern Ireland companies to scale and compete globally as we recover from the pandemic.
* Northern Ireland Broad Economy Sales and Export Statistics 2018, published 19 December 2019
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011486%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318887"}},{"id":"318886","reference":"AQW 11485/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-18","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail her plans to make further and higher education courses more flexible to meet the requirements of businesses in order to attract them to Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department and its delivery partners carry out an extensive amount of work in this area as outlined below.\n\nSkills Strategy\n\nMy Department is currently working on the development of a new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland for consultation and publication in 2021. The overarching focus of the Strategy is on developing a skills system which drives economic prosperity and tackles social inequality.\n\nWe have developed three major policy objectives: addressing skills imbalances, creating a culture of lifelong learning and enhancing digital education and\n\ninclusion across society. Through these objectives, we aim to ensure economic success is balanced, by providing everyone with the education and training opportunities that enable them to participate in a rapidly changing labour market.\n\nDuring the evidence gathering phase of the Strategy project, feedback from stakeholders in Northern Ireland consistently emphasised the need for a more agile, responsive approach to skills development. The new Skills Strategy will, therefore, include a 2-5-10 year implementation plan, developed in close collaboration with key stakeholders and designed to adapt to change, increase transparency and cultivate a more collaborative approach to economic and social development. This will require a flexible approach to skills delivery, with input from employers key to its success.\n\nHigher Education\n\nWhile Northern Ireland’s higher education institutions are autonomous and, as such, are ultimately responsible for the content, structure and delivery of their own courses, I fully recognise the importance of matching the supply of graduate level skills to those demanded by the local economy.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Skills Barometer indicates that HE skills are, in general, only marginally undersupplied. However, there is an imbalance across individual subject areas, with the some of the largest undersupply predicted in STEM-related subjects.\n\nNorthern Ireland’s universities are aware of this undersupply, and have taken measures to rebalance provision, with the result that enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have been increasing over the past number of years. In 2012/13, 22% of students at Northern Ireland’s higher education institutions were studying a Narrow STEM related subject, and 45% were studying a Broad STEM related subject. In 2018/19, these figures had risen to 25.9% and 50.5% respectively.\n\nMy Department is currently reviewing possible interventions, and will continue to work with the local universities, to examine how best to ensure that the supply of graduates is aligned with the needs of the local economy.\n\nFurther Education\n\nFurther Education (FE) colleges are the main providers of professional and technical skills in Northern Ireland and play a pivotal role in generating a strong and vibrant economy by supporting employers to innovate, grow and build their skills base.\n\nThe six Colleges have a total of 30 campuses located across Northern Ireland and use the strong links they have established with local employers and other stakeholders to ensure that the curriculum offered is sufficiently agile to meet the changing skills needs of indigenous and foreign direct investment companies in their areas.\n\nIn addition, seven FE Curriculum Hubs have been established in key occupational areas to draw on the collective experience and expertise of all six FE colleges in order to ensure curriculum is high quality, consistent, current and responsive to the needs and demands of individual companies and the broader economy.\n\nAssured Skills, InnovateUS and Skills Focus\n\nThe Department’s Assured Skills pre-employment training programme works closely with Invest Northern Ireland to deliver a range of in-demand skills to meet the needs of potential inward investment companies or locally based expanding companies.\n\nThe Assured Skills programme, delivered through an Academy model, by both further and higher education institutions, offers training in complex, cutting edge, subjects such as robotics, cybersecurity and data analytics. This engagement with business affords FE and HE the opportunity to upskill lecturers to deliver the latest in skills demanded by growing industries.\n\nOnce established in Northern Ireland, companies can avail of the post-employment skills development programmes through Skills Focus (fewer than 250 employees) and InnovateUs (fewer than 50 employees) ensuring a continuous learning route for SME’s. The training, delivered by FE, is tailored to suit the needs of the individual business to upskill employees and engage in developing innovative products, processes and services.\n\nSectoral Partnerships\n\nSectoral Partnerships have been established across a number of sectors and bring together employers, curriculum experts from further and higher education and policy advisors to ensure apprenticeship and traineeship curriculum and qualifications meets the current and future skills needs of industry.","answerHtml":"My Department and its delivery partners carry out an extensive amount of work in this area as outlined below.
Skills Strategy
My Department is currently working on the development of a new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland for consultation and publication in 2021. The overarching focus of the Strategy is on developing a skills system which drives economic prosperity and tackles social inequality.
We have developed three major policy objectives: addressing skills imbalances, creating a culture of lifelong learning and enhancing digital education and
inclusion across society. Through these objectives, we aim to ensure economic success is balanced, by providing everyone with the education and training opportunities that enable them to participate in a rapidly changing labour market.
During the evidence gathering phase of the Strategy project, feedback from stakeholders in Northern Ireland consistently emphasised the need for a more agile, responsive approach to skills development. The new Skills Strategy will, therefore, include a 2-5-10 year implementation plan, developed in close collaboration with key stakeholders and designed to adapt to change, increase transparency and cultivate a more collaborative approach to economic and social development. This will require a flexible approach to skills delivery, with input from employers key to its success.
Higher Education
While Northern Ireland’s higher education institutions are autonomous and, as such, are ultimately responsible for the content, structure and delivery of their own courses, I fully recognise the importance of matching the supply of graduate level skills to those demanded by the local economy.
The Northern Ireland Skills Barometer indicates that HE skills are, in general, only marginally undersupplied. However, there is an imbalance across individual subject areas, with the some of the largest undersupply predicted in STEM-related subjects.
Northern Ireland’s universities are aware of this undersupply, and have taken measures to rebalance provision, with the result that enrolments and qualifications in STEM subjects have been increasing over the past number of years. In 2012/13, 22% of students at Northern Ireland’s higher education institutions were studying a Narrow STEM related subject, and 45% were studying a Broad STEM related subject. In 2018/19, these figures had risen to 25.9% and 50.5% respectively.
My Department is currently reviewing possible interventions, and will continue to work with the local universities, to examine how best to ensure that the supply of graduates is aligned with the needs of the local economy.
Further Education
Further Education (FE) colleges are the main providers of professional and technical skills in Northern Ireland and play a pivotal role in generating a strong and vibrant economy by supporting employers to innovate, grow and build their skills base.
The six Colleges have a total of 30 campuses located across Northern Ireland and use the strong links they have established with local employers and other stakeholders to ensure that the curriculum offered is sufficiently agile to meet the changing skills needs of indigenous and foreign direct investment companies in their areas.
In addition, seven FE Curriculum Hubs have been established in key occupational areas to draw on the collective experience and expertise of all six FE colleges in order to ensure curriculum is high quality, consistent, current and responsive to the needs and demands of individual companies and the broader economy.
Assured Skills, InnovateUS and Skills Focus
The Department’s Assured Skills pre-employment training programme works closely with Invest Northern Ireland to deliver a range of in-demand skills to meet the needs of potential inward investment companies or locally based expanding companies.
The Assured Skills programme, delivered through an Academy model, by both further and higher education institutions, offers training in complex, cutting edge, subjects such as robotics, cybersecurity and data analytics. This engagement with business affords FE and HE the opportunity to upskill lecturers to deliver the latest in skills demanded by growing industries.
Once established in Northern Ireland, companies can avail of the post-employment skills development programmes through Skills Focus (fewer than 250 employees) and InnovateUs (fewer than 50 employees) ensuring a continuous learning route for SME’s. The training, delivered by FE, is tailored to suit the needs of the individual business to upskill employees and engage in developing innovative products, processes and services.
Sectoral Partnerships
Sectoral Partnerships have been established across a number of sectors and bring together employers, curriculum experts from further and higher education and policy advisors to ensure apprenticeship and traineeship curriculum and qualifications meets the current and future skills needs of industry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011485%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318886"}},{"id":"318885","reference":"AQW 11484/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-03","answerBy":"2020-12-18","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 10294/17-22, (i) what plans she has to use the remaining budget of £22.2 million for people in Northern Ireland, as opposed to it being returned to the UK Government Treasury; and (ii) to detail her concerns about how the review and changes outlined in her answer will negatively affect farms and farmers in terms of their financial viability and survival.","answerText":"As I advised in my response to AQW 10294/17-22, the AME budget which has been set aside for the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme has not all been drawn down from HM Treasury. This budget can only be used to incentivise the use of renewable heat and again we cannot simply adopt a tariff that maximises use of available budget.\n\nThe Buglass report included a finding that the reduction in cash flow resulting from the reduced tariffs has been challenging for some. I welcomed the report’s conclusion that the most important principle to be adopted is that of fair and equal treatment for all those who have participated in the scheme legitimately. The New Decade, New Approach contains a commitment to close the Non-Domestic RHI scheme. Ahead of any final decisions on the method of closure, a series of complex issues are being considered which includes the impact on participants of the scheme and their expectations.","answerHtml":"As I advised in my response to AQW 10294/17-22, the AME budget which has been set aside for the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme has not all been drawn down from HM Treasury. This budget can only be used to incentivise the use of renewable heat and again we cannot simply adopt a tariff that maximises use of available budget.
The Buglass report included a finding that the reduction in cash flow resulting from the reduced tariffs has been challenging for some. I welcomed the report’s conclusion that the most important principle to be adopted is that of fair and equal treatment for all those who have participated in the scheme legitimately. The New Decade, New Approach contains a commitment to close the Non-Domestic RHI scheme. Ahead of any final decisions on the method of closure, a series of complex issues are being considered which includes the impact on participants of the scheme and their expectations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011484%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318885","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318885"}},{"id":"318714","reference":"AQW 11399/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-02","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether, during the two-week tightening of regulations from 27 November 2020, (i) dog owners can use dog groomers via the click and collect service; and (ii) whether hand car-washing businesses can continue to operate.","answerText":"This is not within my Department’s remit. This is for the Public Health Authority to answer.","answerHtml":"This is not within my Department’s remit. This is for the Public Health Authority to answer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011399%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318714"}},{"id":"318526","reference":"AQW 11307/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-01","answerBy":"2020-12-16","answered":"2020-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 10296/17-22, to detail the difference in the size of maintenance loans available to students from Northern Ireland studying in Great Britain compared to students from Great Britain studying in Great Britain.","answerText":"The following table illustrates the maximum Maintenance Loan amount available to students living away from home and living in London across the four UK jurisdictions. Domicile Living Away from Home Living in London Northern Ireland £4,840 £6,780 England £9,203 £12,010 Wales £8,810 £11,260 Scotland £5,750 £5,750 The differences in maintenance loan amounts available are a direct result of the devolved nature of higher education across the UK which allows the UK regions to set their own levels of student support in response to the needs of their students, their political priorities and the budget available to them.","answerHtml":"The following table illustrates the maximum Maintenance Loan amount available to students living away from home and living in London across the four UK jurisdictions. Domicile Living Away from Home Living in London Northern Ireland £4,840 £6,780 England £9,203 £12,010 Wales £8,810 £11,260 Scotland £5,750 £5,750 The differences in maintenance loan amounts available are a direct result of the devolved nature of higher education across the UK which allows the UK regions to set their own levels of student support in response to the needs of their students, their political priorities and the budget available to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011307%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318526","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318526"}},{"id":"318525","reference":"AQW 11306/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-01","answerBy":"2020-12-16","answered":"2020-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for a definition of elite sports as per the current COVID-19 regulations; (ii) whether clay pigeon shooting may be allowed to continue under current guidelines; and (iii) to detail the rationale for this decision.","answerText":"I can advise that under the current regulations, an “Elite athlete” means an individual who meets one of the following criteria:\n\nderives a living from competing in a sport,\n\nplays in a professional league or competition,\n\nis a senior representative nominated by a relevant sporting body,\n\nis a member of the senior training squad for a relevant sporting body, or\n\nis aged 16 or above and on an elite development pathway.\n\nThe Executive agreed to introduce a two-week circuit breaker to slow the spread of Coronavirus in the community and protect the health service. The new restrictions will cover two weeks from November 27. Under these new restrictions, indoor and outdoor sporting activities including clay pigeon shooting are not permitted, other than at elite level.\n\nFor further information and guidance on the regulations including a comprehensive definition of an ‘elite athlete’ please visit the following link on the Sport NI website:\n\nFAQ-Guidance-for-sports-for-new-regulations-19-Oct-2020.pdf (sportni.net)","answerHtml":"I can advise that under the current regulations, an “Elite athlete” means an individual who meets one of the following criteria:
derives a living from competing in a sport,
plays in a professional league or competition,
is a senior representative nominated by a relevant sporting body,
is a member of the senior training squad for a relevant sporting body, or
is aged 16 or above and on an elite development pathway.
The Executive agreed to introduce a two-week circuit breaker to slow the spread of Coronavirus in the community and protect the health service. The new restrictions will cover two weeks from November 27. Under these new restrictions, indoor and outdoor sporting activities including clay pigeon shooting are not permitted, other than at elite level.
For further information and guidance on the regulations including a comprehensive definition of an ‘elite athlete’ please visit the following link on the Sport NI website:
FAQ-Guidance-for-sports-for-new-regulations-19-Oct-2020.pdf (sportni.net)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011306%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318525","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318525"}},{"id":"318524","reference":"AQW 11305/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-01","answerBy":"2020-12-16","answered":"2020-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what contact she has had with (i) musicians; and (ii) the UK Parliament’s Digital, Culture, Media and Sport Select Committee regarding the economics of music streaming, as well as the state of revenue distribution on streaming platforms, to ensure that local musicians are receiving fair remuneration for the work they produce.","answerText":"I have had no contact with musicians or DCMS regarding the economics of music streaming, or the state of revenue distribution on streaming platforms.","answerHtml":"I have had no contact with musicians or DCMS regarding the economics of music streaming, or the state of revenue distribution on streaming platforms.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011305%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318524","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318524"}},{"id":"318523","reference":"AQW 11304/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-01","answerBy":"2020-12-16","answered":"2020-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how many planning applications have been denied due to the negative impact they would have on native birds of prey species, in particular hen harriers and migratory birds, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"DAERA is a statutory consultee in the planning process and provides advice with regard to its areas of competence to assist Planning Authorities make their determinations.\n\nIt is the role of Planning Authorities to make decisions on planning applications; as such DAERA does not retain the information requested.","answerHtml":"DAERA is a statutory consultee in the planning process and provides advice with regard to its areas of competence to assist Planning Authorities make their determinations.
It is the role of Planning Authorities to make decisions on planning applications; as such DAERA does not retain the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011304%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318523","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318523"}},{"id":"318522","reference":"AQW 11303/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-12-01","answerBy":"2020-12-16","answered":"2021-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) what discussions they have had with (a) stakeholders in the religious community; and (b) other Executive departments regarding the provision of support to faith communities that are either vulnerable to hate crime or which have been subject to hate crime; and; (ii) what plans they have to address the issue.","answerText":"The Racial Equality Subgroup has representation from the Belfast Islamic Centre and the Belfast Jewish Community (BJC). The First Minister and Junior Minister Kearney met with the Subgroup on 27th January 2021 and Hate Crime was one of the issues discussed at this meeting. Officials also meet regularly with the subgroup and members have actively engaged with the Marrinan Review of Hate Crime Legislation.\n\nHate crime is a key focus of the Racial Equality Strategy and our officials are also\n\nworking with their counterparts in DoJ and other Departments to consider how to tackle the underlying enabling factors of hate, ensuring links between the Racial Equality Strategy and wider Good Relations work.\n\nWe are also aware that the Department of Justice is considering a Places of Worship Protection Scheme here, in response to hate crime attacks, echoing a similar scheme to that introduced in England and Wales and being developed in Scotland. Since the initial consideration of a funding scheme, in the context of places of worship, the potential scheme has evolved taking into consideration the needs of other key buildings also targeted by hate crime. This development has been informed by:\n\nThe Minister of Justice’s meeting with representatives from the Grand Orange Lodge Ireland who are concerned about the vulnerability of some properties in rural locations;\n\nJudge Marrinan’s Report on Hate Crime Legislation which confirms the need to retain religion as a protected group in future hate crime legislation;\n\nDiscussions with the Community Faiths’ Forum, including a recent online engagement event, on 25 January 2021 reviewing steps be taken to mitigate the risk of future attacks.\n\nEmphasis must be on preventative actions protecting places of worship and other buildings from hate crime attacks.","answerHtml":"The Racial Equality Subgroup has representation from the Belfast Islamic Centre and the Belfast Jewish Community (BJC). The First Minister and Junior Minister Kearney met with the Subgroup on 27th January 2021 and Hate Crime was one of the issues discussed at this meeting. Officials also meet regularly with the subgroup and members have actively engaged with the Marrinan Review of Hate Crime Legislation.
Hate crime is a key focus of the Racial Equality Strategy and our officials are also
working with their counterparts in DoJ and other Departments to consider how to tackle the underlying enabling factors of hate, ensuring links between the Racial Equality Strategy and wider Good Relations work.
We are also aware that the Department of Justice is considering a Places of Worship Protection Scheme here, in response to hate crime attacks, echoing a similar scheme to that introduced in England and Wales and being developed in Scotland. Since the initial consideration of a funding scheme, in the context of places of worship, the potential scheme has evolved taking into consideration the needs of other key buildings also targeted by hate crime. This development has been informed by:
The Minister of Justice’s meeting with representatives from the Grand Orange Lodge Ireland who are concerned about the vulnerability of some properties in rural locations;
Judge Marrinan’s Report on Hate Crime Legislation which confirms the need to retain religion as a protected group in future hate crime legislation;
Discussions with the Community Faiths’ Forum, including a recent online engagement event, on 25 January 2021 reviewing steps be taken to mitigate the risk of future attacks.
Emphasis must be on preventative actions protecting places of worship and other buildings from hate crime attacks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011303%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318522"}},{"id":"318237","reference":"AQW 11202/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-03","answered":"2021-04-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) to detail the flexibility of the time window and dates given to people living in GB who wish to travel home to Northern Ireland for Christmas; (ii) whether those travelling home will be able to join their family bubble from the date of their return; (iii) whether accommodation will be available for those who are unable to instantly join their family bubble; and (iv) what plans they have put in place should scheduled flights to Northern Ireland become fully booked before everyone who wants to return has had a chance to book their flight.","answerText":"Updated guidance on travel over the Christmas period was published on the nidirect.gov.uk website on 22 December 2020.\n\nInformation on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you","answerHtml":"Updated guidance on travel over the Christmas period was published on the nidirect.gov.uk website on 22 December 2020.
Information on the current COVID-19 Regulations and what they mean can be found on nidirect at: https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011202%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318237"}},{"id":"318236","reference":"AQW 11201/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2020-12-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs why cosmetics containing plastic micro beads are still on sale in Northern Ireland, despite having been banned by the UK Government.","answerText":"The manufacture and sale of rinse-off cosmetic products containing plastic microbeads was banned in Northern Ireland by The Environmental Protection (Microbeads) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019. The ban is enforced by local councils. It does not apply to products which wear off.\n\nIt would be helpful if you could provide to joe.breen@daera-ni.gov.uk details of the product you are referring to and where it was purchased/displayed. It would also be helpful if you could supply an image of the ingredients so officials can refer the matter to the relevant local authority, if appropriate.","answerHtml":"The manufacture and sale of rinse-off cosmetic products containing plastic microbeads was banned in Northern Ireland by The Environmental Protection (Microbeads) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019. The ban is enforced by local councils. It does not apply to products which wear off.
It would be helpful if you could provide to joe.breen@daera-ni.gov.uk details of the product you are referring to and where it was purchased/displayed. It would also be helpful if you could supply an image of the ingredients so officials can refer the matter to the relevant local authority, if appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011201%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318236","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318236"}},{"id":"318235","reference":"AQW 11200/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2020-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, in order to attract more people into town centres, what plans she has to make Northern Ireland’s town and city centres more people-friendly, including pedestrianising.","answerText":"My Department is engaged in a range of schemes to attract people into towns and city centres. This includes the COVID-19 Town Revitalisation Programme which I announced on 28 October 2020, in conjunction with the Communities and DAERA Ministers.\n\nThrough that programme, my Department is investing £5 million in towns and cities across all Council areas in initiatives which will make it easier and more inclusive and attractive for people to access shops and services by enabling them to make more short journeys by walking, wheeling and cycling rather than travelling by car. The projects being taken forward through my Department’s element of this programme include improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure, the installation of parklets and the creation of pedestrian areas.","answerHtml":"My Department is engaged in a range of schemes to attract people into towns and city centres. This includes the COVID-19 Town Revitalisation Programme which I announced on 28 October 2020, in conjunction with the Communities and DAERA Ministers.
Through that programme, my Department is investing £5 million in towns and cities across all Council areas in initiatives which will make it easier and more inclusive and attractive for people to access shops and services by enabling them to make more short journeys by walking, wheeling and cycling rather than travelling by car. The projects being taken forward through my Department’s element of this programme include improvements to walking and cycling infrastructure, the installation of parklets and the creation of pedestrian areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011200%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318235"}},{"id":"318234","reference":"AQW 11199/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the reasons for the increased levels of pollution recently experienced in Northern Ireland; and (ii) what (a) short-term; and (b) long-term steps he is taking to prevent future instances of such pollution.","answerText":"In order to protect public health and our environment, my Department has extensive monitoring and surveillance networks across Northern Ireland, in respect of a number of environmental pollutants. Where possible, in light of government health and safety guidance, monitoring and surveillance continues and I set out below some information relating to air quality, water quality and fly tipping during the lockdown period.\n\nAir Quality\n\nDAERA officials monitor air quality on a weekly, daily and if necessary, hourly basis. This enables air quality alerts to be issued as soon as high levels of air pollution are experienced or forecast. Levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) remain lower in 2020 than the average for the preceding five years for almost all of 2020. Levels in 2020 are lower than the previous 5 year average both before and after lockdown, which started on 23 March 2020. Levels of NO2 tend to be lower in summer months and, this is the case in 2020. Levels of particulate matter (PM) have varied considerably since the start of 2020. For the majority of the first quarter of 2020, levels of PM were lower than the 2015-2019 five-year average. Since lockdown levels have, for the most part, been higher than the five year average. A high air pollution alert was issued in respect of forecast high levels of particulate matter on 10 April 2020 and monitored levels on and 29 November 2020.\n\nIt is difficult to determine the precise cause of these trends seen in pollutants. Air quality is affected by weather. Strong winds can disperse pollutants, whilst temperature inversions can trap localised pollution close to the surface. It can also be impacted by human activities that are a source of pollution, such as residential solid fuel burning and use of vehicles.\n\nA number for proactive steps have been taken by my Department to improve air quality in Northern Ireland. My Department continues to financially assist the district councils with monitoring and action plans to improve air quality through the Local Air Quality Management Grant. Funding is also provided to other organisations for activities that promote active travel and improve air quality.\n\nMy Department is developing the first Clean Air Strategy for Northern Ireland, a two-stage approach has been adopted. Initially a Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document, which presents an in-depth analysis of air quality in Northern Ireland and sets out current policy and evidence, was launched to a 12 week public consultation on Monday 23rd November 2020. The Discussion Document seeks views on a wide variety of matters relating to air quality. It does not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position. I encourage all Members to review to the Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document and respond to the questions posed in the document. The Discussion Document and Abridged version are available at:\n\nhttp://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/clean_air_strategy_discussion_document\n\nFollowing this period of public discussion, responses received will be reviewed, options considered and range of proposals formulated. Once I have considered the options and decided on a policy direction, officials shall begin to draft the first Clean Air Strategy for Northern Ireland. This will be a more focussed and shorter document than the Discussion Document and will contain specific proposals relating to policy and other measures which can improve air quality. This draft Clean Air Strategy will be subject to an additional public consultation and due to the cross-cutting nature of the policy area, Executive approval will also be sought at that time.\n\nThe DAERA Air Quality website was redesigned earlier this year and the improved website was launched on 31st July 2019. The website provides the general public with information on topics including, pollutants, forecasts, health impacts and Pollution Busters – a section exclusively for children about air pollution. In recognition of the cross-cutting benefits of this informative and educational resource, DAERA officials worked with Department for Infrastructure and Department for Health colleagues to ensure that all information available to the public was current and accurate.\n\nThe Air Quality App, launched on 7th May 2020, is a further example of the steps taken by my Department to reduce air pollution. The App informs the public of the issues, and importantly, the interventions individuals can take to tackle pollution. The Northern Ireland Air Quality App gives the public instant up to date information on the air pollution levels across Northern Ireland and a five day air quality forecast. It also provides the public with valuable health advice on the impacts of reduced air quality, to help them make informed decisions about their actions and activities on days when air quality is poor. The pollutants monitored are nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter (PM), sulphur dioxide and ozone.\n\nWater Quality\n\nIt is the role of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to conserve, protect and where possible improve the aquatic environment. We do this through a range of activities including the regulation of effluent discharges, farm inspections, catchment investigations and the promotion of good practice in new developments (through its response to planning consultations) and the education of the industry sector and the wider community.\n\nUndertaking a targeted catchment approach to improving water quality requires a wide range of communication, engagement and partnership working both across Departments and across sectors.\n\nIn order to prevent or minimise the impact of pollution, NIEA co-ordinates and manages the response to reports of pollution within set time targets, depending on the severity of the incident.\n\nThe number of confirmed water pollution incidents have remained constant for 2020 in comparison to recent years. NIEA’s water pollution response team remained operational throughout 2020 and have received 1576 reports of water pollution by 18/10/20. Of these, 772 were subsequently confirmed upon investigation. This compares similarly for the same time period in other years (see table below).\n\nYear\tNo. water pollution incidents reported\tNo. of water pollution incidents confirmed\n2017\t1487\t824\n2018\t1508\t770\n2019\t1457\t777\n2020\t1576\t772\n\nFly tipping\n\nWith regard to waste, my Department focuses its enforcement actions primarily on larger scale waste dumping activity rather than low level ad hoc dumping often referred to as ‘fly-tipping’, which is primarily addressed by District Councils.\n\nSince 1 January 2020 to date, my Department has received 1007 reported incidents of alleged illegal waste disposal, compared to 823 during the same period last year. Of these incidents in 2020, 165 recorded waste disposal by burning compared to 118 during the same period last year, representing an increase of 40%.\n\nWhile I have no plans at present to strengthen or change the legislation around illegal dumping, my officials are working with councils to consider the effectiveness of the existing legislation and explore how we can work together to make best use of the powers contained within it.\n\nThis may create opportunities to deal more quickly and effectively with lower level offending on a local level through fixed penalty notices rather than being reliant on Court proceedings, the timings of which are outside of our control.","answerHtml":"In order to protect public health and our environment, my Department has extensive monitoring and surveillance networks across Northern Ireland, in respect of a number of environmental pollutants. Where possible, in light of government health and safety guidance, monitoring and surveillance continues and I set out below some information relating to air quality, water quality and fly tipping during the lockdown period.
Air Quality
DAERA officials monitor air quality on a weekly, daily and if necessary, hourly basis. This enables air quality alerts to be issued as soon as high levels of air pollution are experienced or forecast. Levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) remain lower in 2020 than the average for the preceding five years for almost all of 2020. Levels in 2020 are lower than the previous 5 year average both before and after lockdown, which started on 23 March 2020. Levels of NO2 tend to be lower in summer months and, this is the case in 2020. Levels of particulate matter (PM) have varied considerably since the start of 2020. For the majority of the first quarter of 2020, levels of PM were lower than the 2015-2019 five-year average. Since lockdown levels have, for the most part, been higher than the five year average. A high air pollution alert was issued in respect of forecast high levels of particulate matter on 10 April 2020 and monitored levels on and 29 November 2020.
It is difficult to determine the precise cause of these trends seen in pollutants. Air quality is affected by weather. Strong winds can disperse pollutants, whilst temperature inversions can trap localised pollution close to the surface. It can also be impacted by human activities that are a source of pollution, such as residential solid fuel burning and use of vehicles.
A number for proactive steps have been taken by my Department to improve air quality in Northern Ireland. My Department continues to financially assist the district councils with monitoring and action plans to improve air quality through the Local Air Quality Management Grant. Funding is also provided to other organisations for activities that promote active travel and improve air quality.
My Department is developing the first Clean Air Strategy for Northern Ireland, a two-stage approach has been adopted. Initially a Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document, which presents an in-depth analysis of air quality in Northern Ireland and sets out current policy and evidence, was launched to a 12 week public consultation on Monday 23rd November 2020. The Discussion Document seeks views on a wide variety of matters relating to air quality. It does not set out policy options or indicate a particular policy position. I encourage all Members to review to the Clean Air Strategy Discussion Document and respond to the questions posed in the document. The Discussion Document and Abridged version are available at:
http://www.daera-ni.gov.uk/clean_air_strategy_discussion_document
Following this period of public discussion, responses received will be reviewed, options considered and range of proposals formulated. Once I have considered the options and decided on a policy direction, officials shall begin to draft the first Clean Air Strategy for Northern Ireland. This will be a more focussed and shorter document than the Discussion Document and will contain specific proposals relating to policy and other measures which can improve air quality. This draft Clean Air Strategy will be subject to an additional public consultation and due to the cross-cutting nature of the policy area, Executive approval will also be sought at that time.
The DAERA Air Quality website was redesigned earlier this year and the improved website was launched on 31st July 2019. The website provides the general public with information on topics including, pollutants, forecasts, health impacts and Pollution Busters – a section exclusively for children about air pollution. In recognition of the cross-cutting benefits of this informative and educational resource, DAERA officials worked with Department for Infrastructure and Department for Health colleagues to ensure that all information available to the public was current and accurate.
The Air Quality App, launched on 7th May 2020, is a further example of the steps taken by my Department to reduce air pollution. The App informs the public of the issues, and importantly, the interventions individuals can take to tackle pollution. The Northern Ireland Air Quality App gives the public instant up to date information on the air pollution levels across Northern Ireland and a five day air quality forecast. It also provides the public with valuable health advice on the impacts of reduced air quality, to help them make informed decisions about their actions and activities on days when air quality is poor. The pollutants monitored are nitrogen dioxide, particulate matter (PM), sulphur dioxide and ozone.
Water Quality
It is the role of the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) to conserve, protect and where possible improve the aquatic environment. We do this through a range of activities including the regulation of effluent discharges, farm inspections, catchment investigations and the promotion of good practice in new developments (through its response to planning consultations) and the education of the industry sector and the wider community.
Undertaking a targeted catchment approach to improving water quality requires a wide range of communication, engagement and partnership working both across Departments and across sectors.
In order to prevent or minimise the impact of pollution, NIEA co-ordinates and manages the response to reports of pollution within set time targets, depending on the severity of the incident.
The number of confirmed water pollution incidents have remained constant for 2020 in comparison to recent years. NIEA’s water pollution response team remained operational throughout 2020 and have received 1576 reports of water pollution by 18/10/20. Of these, 772 were subsequently confirmed upon investigation. This compares similarly for the same time period in other years (see table below).
| Year | No. water pollution incidents reported | No. of water pollution incidents confirmed |
| 2017 | 1487 | 824 |
| 2018 | 1508 | 770 |
| 2019 | 1457 | 777 |
| 2020 | 1576 | 772 |
Fly tipping
With regard to waste, my Department focuses its enforcement actions primarily on larger scale waste dumping activity rather than low level ad hoc dumping often referred to as ‘fly-tipping’, which is primarily addressed by District Councils.
Since 1 January 2020 to date, my Department has received 1007 reported incidents of alleged illegal waste disposal, compared to 823 during the same period last year. Of these incidents in 2020, 165 recorded waste disposal by burning compared to 118 during the same period last year, representing an increase of 40%.
While I have no plans at present to strengthen or change the legislation around illegal dumping, my officials are working with councils to consider the effectiveness of the existing legislation and explore how we can work together to make best use of the powers contained within it.
This may create opportunities to deal more quickly and effectively with lower level offending on a local level through fixed penalty notices rather than being reliant on Court proceedings, the timings of which are outside of our control.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011199%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318234"}},{"id":"318233","reference":"AQW 11198/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-30","answerBy":"2020-12-15","answered":"2021-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many referrals to emergency departments have been made by out-of-hours doctors since 23 March 2020; and how this figure compares with the same period for the previous two years.","answerText":"Information on the number of referrals to emergency departments from out of hours doctors services is not available.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of referrals to emergency departments from out of hours doctors services is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011198%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318233","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318233"}},{"id":"317978","reference":"AQW 11123/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-27","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2020-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what plans he has for the establishment of a regional commissioning pathway on insulin pumps; (ii) whether funding will be made available; and (iii) what steps he is taking to address the current waiting list for insulin pumps for diabetics.","answerText":"The Strategic Framework for Diabetes in Northern Ireland was launched in 2016 as part of a series of initiatives to support “Health and Well-Being 2026, Delivering Together”. The Framework was published in conjunction with the formation of a Diabetes Network which enables people living with diabetes and frontline experts to co-design services to bring improvements for people living with the condition.\n\nThe Diabetes Commissioning Team within the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency commission the purchase of insulin pumps in line with Trust requirements. HSC Trusts undertake an annual needs assessment exercise to inform pump requirements, which takes into account their available staffing capacity to educate new patients on the use of the pump.\n\nI can confirm that funding continues to be made available to purchase insulin pumps for those patients who have not had one to date; to provide for consumable costs associated with the pumps; and for the purchase of replacement pumps where the manufacturer’s warranty has expired on pumps previously provided to patients.\n\nInsulin pumps are not however clinically suitable for everyone and I understand that other factors often contribute to the delay in a patient getting access to an insulin pump including the suitability of this type of treatment for the patient concerned, adherence to NICE guidelines, patient readiness and clinical priority.\n\nThe Diabetes Network has made access to insulin pumps a high priority and has recognised the importance of a sustainable regional approach to the acquisition, utilisation and replacement of insulin pumps with an emphasis on equity and safety. The Diabetes Network has established a Task and Finish group with involvement of Diabetes UK and HSC Trusts to consider and scope a regional service model for insulin pumps.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Framework for Diabetes in Northern Ireland was launched in 2016 as part of a series of initiatives to support “Health and Well-Being 2026, Delivering Together”. The Framework was published in conjunction with the formation of a Diabetes Network which enables people living with diabetes and frontline experts to co-design services to bring improvements for people living with the condition.
The Diabetes Commissioning Team within the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency commission the purchase of insulin pumps in line with Trust requirements. HSC Trusts undertake an annual needs assessment exercise to inform pump requirements, which takes into account their available staffing capacity to educate new patients on the use of the pump.
I can confirm that funding continues to be made available to purchase insulin pumps for those patients who have not had one to date; to provide for consumable costs associated with the pumps; and for the purchase of replacement pumps where the manufacturer’s warranty has expired on pumps previously provided to patients.
Insulin pumps are not however clinically suitable for everyone and I understand that other factors often contribute to the delay in a patient getting access to an insulin pump including the suitability of this type of treatment for the patient concerned, adherence to NICE guidelines, patient readiness and clinical priority.
The Diabetes Network has made access to insulin pumps a high priority and has recognised the importance of a sustainable regional approach to the acquisition, utilisation and replacement of insulin pumps with an emphasis on equity and safety. The Diabetes Network has established a Task and Finish group with involvement of Diabetes UK and HSC Trusts to consider and scope a regional service model for insulin pumps.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011123%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317978"}},{"id":"317977","reference":"AQW 11122/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-27","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2021-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the results of looping technology's impact on diabetes; (ii) what conversations he has had with NICE, Type 1 diabetic users of the technology and companies such as Dexcom and Abbot regarding the development and approval of the technology for general use; and (iii) what considerations his Department has given to making this technology and the associated funding available.","answerText":"Closed loop technology or looping technology is sometimes referred to as artificial pancreas technology and continually monitors blood glucose and automatically adjusts the amount of insulin given through a pump.\n\nResults are awaited from an NHS England pilot project on looping technology's impact on diabetes. Such advances are very novel in diabetes care and the precise placement of such technology in the diabetes community continues to be explored at a national and international level.\n\nConversations on the development and approval of looping technology for general use are ongoing with Service User/ Carer Representatives on the Diabetes Network NI Digital workstream. A meeting has been arranged for September 2021 with Abbott Diabetes Care in relation to diabetes technology in Northern Ireland.\n\nClosed loop technology requires underpinning from a robust insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) service.\n\nThere are a number of factors to consider in making this technology available, including workforce, availability of funding and COVID pressures on Health and Social Care.","answerHtml":"Closed loop technology or looping technology is sometimes referred to as artificial pancreas technology and continually monitors blood glucose and automatically adjusts the amount of insulin given through a pump.
Results are awaited from an NHS England pilot project on looping technology's impact on diabetes. Such advances are very novel in diabetes care and the precise placement of such technology in the diabetes community continues to be explored at a national and international level.
Conversations on the development and approval of looping technology for general use are ongoing with Service User/ Carer Representatives on the Diabetes Network NI Digital workstream. A meeting has been arranged for September 2021 with Abbott Diabetes Care in relation to diabetes technology in Northern Ireland.
Closed loop technology requires underpinning from a robust insulin pump and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) service.
There are a number of factors to consider in making this technology available, including workforce, availability of funding and COVID pressures on Health and Social Care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011122%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317977"}},{"id":"317976","reference":"AQW 11121/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-27","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2021-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what plans he has (i) for the mandatory and free microchipping of horses in conjunction with a horse passport; (ii) for the re-establishment of a Northern Ireland equivalent of a National Equine Database; (iii) to introduce any other measures that would protect the welfare of horses, including from practices such as acts of cruelty and fly-grazing; and (iv) to work with animal welfare groups, the PSNI and local councils in order to prevent cruelty and fly-grazing.","answerText":"Micro-chipping of horses\n\nUnder the terms and provisions of Commission Implementing Regulation EU No. 2015/262 and The Equine Identification Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019, it is mandatory for a horse to be microchipped when an application is made for a passport. The charges for both of these services are levied by veterinary surgeons and Passport Issuing Organisations (PIOs), respectively. My Department has no plans to fund these services.\n\nNational Equine Database\n\nUnder the provisions of Commission Implementing Regulation EU No. 2015/262 and The Equine Identification Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019, PIOs are required to upload the data from their local database to the United Kingdom Central Equine Database (CED). At present, my Department has no plans to establish a Northern Ireland equivalent.\n\nAbandoned / straying animals (including fly-grazing)\n\nMy Department currently has no specific powers to deal with the welfare of horses which have strayed or are being fly-grazed on another person’s land.\n\nHowever, Article 9 of The Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1976, which comes under the remit of the Department of Finance, provides powers to deal with livestock which have strayed onto someone’s land. “Livestock” includes cattle, horses, donkeys, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry, and domesticated deer.\n\nThe land owner or occupier who finds any of these animals on their land can detain the animals, however, they must then inform the PSNI within 48 hours that they have done so.\n\nAfter 14 days, if no owner is identified, the land owner/occupier can then sell the livestock at a market or public auction. If this is not a viable option, the landowner can consider contacting an animal welfare or re-homing charity.\n\nThe right of the land owner/occupier to detain the livestock ends if the livestock is then claimed by its owner and this owner pays an amount to cover matters such as damages caused, and expenses incurred.\n\nThe Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 provides legislative protections for all farmed and companion animals in Northern Ireland, including horses. The Act makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering or fail to cater for the needs of any animal. Responsibility for upholding the welfare of horses under the Act falls to councils. A council animal welfare officer has powers under the Act to take possession of any animal, including a horse, which is suffering or likely to suffer.\n\nThe maximum penalty available for causing unnecessary suffering is up to five years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine. It is noted that the penalties available in Northern Ireland are among the most stringent in the United Kingdom. The maximum penalty in England and Wales is six months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine; and the maximum in Scotland has only recently increased (from 30 November 2020) from twelve months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20,000 to a level that is equal to Northern Ireland’s.\n\nThe Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill currently before Westminster will bring the maximum penalties available in England and Wales into line with those here.\n\nWorking with other organisations\n\nMy officials continue to work with a range of organisations, including animal welfare groups, to ensure the welfare of all animals is protected.","answerHtml":"Micro-chipping of horses
Under the terms and provisions of Commission Implementing Regulation EU No. 2015/262 and The Equine Identification Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019, it is mandatory for a horse to be microchipped when an application is made for a passport. The charges for both of these services are levied by veterinary surgeons and Passport Issuing Organisations (PIOs), respectively. My Department has no plans to fund these services.
National Equine Database
Under the provisions of Commission Implementing Regulation EU No. 2015/262 and The Equine Identification Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019, PIOs are required to upload the data from their local database to the United Kingdom Central Equine Database (CED). At present, my Department has no plans to establish a Northern Ireland equivalent.
Abandoned / straying animals (including fly-grazing)
My Department currently has no specific powers to deal with the welfare of horses which have strayed or are being fly-grazed on another person’s land.
However, Article 9 of The Animals (Northern Ireland) Order 1976, which comes under the remit of the Department of Finance, provides powers to deal with livestock which have strayed onto someone’s land. “Livestock” includes cattle, horses, donkeys, sheep, pigs, goats and poultry, and domesticated deer.
The land owner or occupier who finds any of these animals on their land can detain the animals, however, they must then inform the PSNI within 48 hours that they have done so.
After 14 days, if no owner is identified, the land owner/occupier can then sell the livestock at a market or public auction. If this is not a viable option, the landowner can consider contacting an animal welfare or re-homing charity.
The right of the land owner/occupier to detain the livestock ends if the livestock is then claimed by its owner and this owner pays an amount to cover matters such as damages caused, and expenses incurred.
The Welfare of Animals Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 provides legislative protections for all farmed and companion animals in Northern Ireland, including horses. The Act makes it an offence to cause unnecessary suffering or fail to cater for the needs of any animal. Responsibility for upholding the welfare of horses under the Act falls to councils. A council animal welfare officer has powers under the Act to take possession of any animal, including a horse, which is suffering or likely to suffer.
The maximum penalty available for causing unnecessary suffering is up to five years imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine. It is noted that the penalties available in Northern Ireland are among the most stringent in the United Kingdom. The maximum penalty in England and Wales is six months imprisonment and/or an unlimited fine; and the maximum in Scotland has only recently increased (from 30 November 2020) from twelve months imprisonment and/or a fine of up to £20,000 to a level that is equal to Northern Ireland’s.
The Animal Welfare (Sentencing) Bill currently before Westminster will bring the maximum penalties available in England and Wales into line with those here.
Working with other organisations
My officials continue to work with a range of organisations, including animal welfare groups, to ensure the welfare of all animals is protected.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011121%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317976"}},{"id":"317975","reference":"AQW 11120/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-27","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how the McCloud ruling will impact on serving officers of the PSNI and the terms of their pension; and for an update on the results of the consultation entitle Public service pension schemes: Changes to the transitional arrangements to the 2015 schemes.","answerText":"Under proposals to address unlawful age discrimination occurring since 2015, members of the Police Pension Scheme who were in service on or before 31 March 2012 and on or after 1 April 2015 will be able to choose to have scheme benefits accrued during the period 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2022 calculated under either the 2015 reformed scheme rules or those pertaining to their pre-2015 (legacy) scheme arrangement. To remove the discrimination for the future it is proposed that all members will accrue service from 1 April 2022 in the 2015 reformed scheme, which is of a career average design with a normal pension age of 60.\n\nThe consultation on this matter closed on 18 November 2020. Feedback is now being analysed and a response will be published in due course.","answerHtml":"Under proposals to address unlawful age discrimination occurring since 2015, members of the Police Pension Scheme who were in service on or before 31 March 2012 and on or after 1 April 2015 will be able to choose to have scheme benefits accrued during the period 1 April 2015 to 31 March 2022 calculated under either the 2015 reformed scheme rules or those pertaining to their pre-2015 (legacy) scheme arrangement. To remove the discrimination for the future it is proposed that all members will accrue service from 1 April 2022 in the 2015 reformed scheme, which is of a career average design with a normal pension age of 60.
The consultation on this matter closed on 18 November 2020. Feedback is now being analysed and a response will be published in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011120%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317975"}},{"id":"317974","reference":"AQW 11119/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-27","answerBy":"2020-12-14","answered":"2021-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) when the Western Health and Social Care Trust will have a dedicated occupational therapist (OT); and (ii) how many requests his Department has received in each of the past three years to access an OT for the Trust.","answerText":"The Department and Western Health and Social Care Trust are unable to respond to this question without additional clarification regarding which area of Occupational Therapy is referred to.\n\nTo date, we have been unable to obtain that clarification.\n\nThe Department will be happy to respond to any subsequent request.","answerHtml":"The Department and Western Health and Social Care Trust are unable to respond to this question without additional clarification regarding which area of Occupational Therapy is referred to.
To date, we have been unable to obtain that clarification.
The Department will be happy to respond to any subsequent request.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011119%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317974"}},{"id":"317745","reference":"AQW 11058/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-11","answered":"2020-12-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, pursuant to AQW 9851/17-22, for his assessment of how continued restrictions at household recycling centres are affecting (i) recycling; (ii) illegal waste disposal; (iii) fly-tipping levels; and (iv) the environment in general.","answerText":"The majority of Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) have now re-opened across Northern Ireland, with 94 out of 96 sites now operational. While most HWRCs are now accepting all previous waste streams, local Councils have had to implement a number of measures across sites to ensure the health and safety of staff and the public. Despite this, the impact on recycling overall appears to be limited, with recycling statistics dropping only 0.1% over a rolling 12 month period. Likewise, the current level and types of illegal waste disposal incidents being reported appear to be on a par with pre-COVID levels.\n\nThere has been no lasting impact on the environment in general. Dumping of small-scale waste that should otherwise be disposed of at HWRCs is cleared when DCs are made aware of it.","answerHtml":"The majority of Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) have now re-opened across Northern Ireland, with 94 out of 96 sites now operational. While most HWRCs are now accepting all previous waste streams, local Councils have had to implement a number of measures across sites to ensure the health and safety of staff and the public. Despite this, the impact on recycling overall appears to be limited, with recycling statistics dropping only 0.1% over a rolling 12 month period. Likewise, the current level and types of illegal waste disposal incidents being reported appear to be on a par with pre-COVID levels.
There has been no lasting impact on the environment in general. Dumping of small-scale waste that should otherwise be disposed of at HWRCs is cleared when DCs are made aware of it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011058%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317745","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317745"}},{"id":"317744","reference":"AQW 11057/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-11","answered":"2021-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the support available to owners of self-catering accommodation who have seen reductions in business due to Executive regulations, in particular the essential travel only element of the COVID-19 regulations.","answerText":"The travel industry has been impacted particularly hard by COVID-19, both locally and on a global scale.\n\nUnder current regulations and associated restrictions, which came into effect on 26th December 2020, self-catering businesses are required to close, except in a very limited number of scenarios. As such, they may be eligible for either the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme or the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme, depending on their particular circumstances.\n\nThe Executive has also allocated £4.1 million to support Bed & Breakfast, Guest House and Guest Accommodation providers. My Department is working with Tourism NI to develop this targeted financial support scheme, which will come into effect before the end of January 2021.\n\nIt will be for the Executive to collectively decide on how any additional financial resources should be allocated, including those aimed at supporting local businesses and the wider economy.","answerHtml":"The travel industry has been impacted particularly hard by COVID-19, both locally and on a global scale.
Under current regulations and associated restrictions, which came into effect on 26th December 2020, self-catering businesses are required to close, except in a very limited number of scenarios. As such, they may be eligible for either the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme or the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme, depending on their particular circumstances.
The Executive has also allocated £4.1 million to support Bed & Breakfast, Guest House and Guest Accommodation providers. My Department is working with Tourism NI to develop this targeted financial support scheme, which will come into effect before the end of January 2021.
It will be for the Executive to collectively decide on how any additional financial resources should be allocated, including those aimed at supporting local businesses and the wider economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011057%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317744","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317744"}},{"id":"317743","reference":"AQW 11056/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-11","answered":"2021-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the support available to sole-trader retail suppliers, whose trade has been affected by previous and forthcoming closures of non-essential retail outlets.","answerText":"The Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme is open for businesses that are not named in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, but which supply goods or services to such a business, or are reliant upon such a business being open and fully operational in order to trade.\n\nThe scheme provided support for businesses affected by the restrictions from 16th October 2020 and reopened for applications on 7 January 2021.\n\nSole trader retail suppliers whose trade has been affected by closures, may be eligible for Part B of the CRBSS, subject to meeting wider eligibility criteria.\n\nFull details of support available to businesses are available at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/business-support/coronavirus.","answerHtml":"The Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme is open for businesses that are not named in the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No.2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, but which supply goods or services to such a business, or are reliant upon such a business being open and fully operational in order to trade.
The scheme provided support for businesses affected by the restrictions from 16th October 2020 and reopened for applications on 7 January 2021.
Sole trader retail suppliers whose trade has been affected by closures, may be eligible for Part B of the CRBSS, subject to meeting wider eligibility criteria.
Full details of support available to businesses are available at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/business-support/coronavirus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011056%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317743"}},{"id":"317742","reference":"AQW 11055/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-11","answered":"2020-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, given that many students have had to self-isolate for 14 days or more and thereby missing valuable teaching time, (i) for his assessment of the fairness of this school year’s assessment procedures; and (ii) whether he is considering alternative grading processes, potentially similar to the last school year.","answerText":"My priority is that exams should proceed as planned in 2021 as they remain the fairest method of assessing and awarding qualifications. However I recognise the need to take account of the ongoing disruption to face to face teaching experienced by many learners.\n\nMy officials have been working closely with CCEA to develop a range of options for contingencies to respond to the fluid public health situation. In considering these options I want to ensure that NI students are not disadvantaged in comparison to their peers in other jurisdictions.\n\nI hope to be in a position to make an announcement very soon.","answerHtml":"My priority is that exams should proceed as planned in 2021 as they remain the fairest method of assessing and awarding qualifications. However I recognise the need to take account of the ongoing disruption to face to face teaching experienced by many learners.
My officials have been working closely with CCEA to develop a range of options for contingencies to respond to the fluid public health situation. In considering these options I want to ensure that NI students are not disadvantaged in comparison to their peers in other jurisdictions.
I hope to be in a position to make an announcement very soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011055%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317742","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317742"}},{"id":"317741","reference":"AQW 11054/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-11","answered":"2020-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AWQ 10079/17-22, further to her conversations with the Chief Constable and given the wider impact on work within her remit, for her assessment of the number of reported incidences of anti-social behaviour (i) since the beginning of lockdown in March 2020; and (ii) for the same period in each of the past two years.","answerText":"Based on the PSNI statistics for the period March to October of 2018, 2019 and 2020, published on the PSNI website, there were 40,443 incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB) recorded in 2018, and over the same period in 2019 there were 40,059 incidents recorded, representing a fall of 1%.\n\nReporting trends for ASB incidents up to March 2020 appear to follow a similar pattern to those of the previous 12 months. Since the introduction of the COVID-19 restrictions (on 23rd March this year), levels of ASB have remained high compared with the same period in the two previous years, with 54,448 incidents recorded between March and October 2020. This figure represents an increase when compared to the same period in 2018 and 2019 of 35% and 36% respectively.\n\nThe PSNI have noted that the introduction of COVID-19 lockdown measures led to a substantial increase in levels of ASB.\n\nWhile I would not draw definitive conclusions from these statistics, they do reflect the direct impact which breaches of COVID restrictions have had on ASB statistics, and provide an indicator of the wider impacts which COVID may have had on general ASB incidents.","answerHtml":"Based on the PSNI statistics for the period March to October of 2018, 2019 and 2020, published on the PSNI website, there were 40,443 incidents of anti-social behaviour (ASB) recorded in 2018, and over the same period in 2019 there were 40,059 incidents recorded, representing a fall of 1%.
Reporting trends for ASB incidents up to March 2020 appear to follow a similar pattern to those of the previous 12 months. Since the introduction of the COVID-19 restrictions (on 23rd March this year), levels of ASB have remained high compared with the same period in the two previous years, with 54,448 incidents recorded between March and October 2020. This figure represents an increase when compared to the same period in 2018 and 2019 of 35% and 36% respectively.
The PSNI have noted that the introduction of COVID-19 lockdown measures led to a substantial increase in levels of ASB.
While I would not draw definitive conclusions from these statistics, they do reflect the direct impact which breaches of COVID restrictions have had on ASB statistics, and provide an indicator of the wider impacts which COVID may have had on general ASB incidents.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2011054%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317741"}},{"id":"322756","reference":"AQO 1331/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to outline its plans for reopening Parliament Buildings to the public.","answerText":"The Commission took the decision to close Parliament Buildings to the public from 9pm on Wednesday 18 March, in light of the coronavirus pandemic.\n\nWhile no public tours, events or visitor activities have taken place since then and only permanent Assembly passholders and those essential to the delivery of Assembly business have had access to the building since then, the focus has been on ensuring that the Assembly can continue to meet to carry out its legislative and scrutiny functions.\n\nAt its meeting on 9 December 2020, the Commission agreed that in light of the ongoing health risks and restrictions in place, that Parliament Buildings should remain closed to the public until 28 February 2021 and that the situation would, again be reviewed at that time.\n\nThat consideration will, of course, take account of the prevailing public health situation and, as ever, will continue to follow the guidance issued by relevant entities such as the Public Health Agency and will fully comply with all Regulations in place.\n\nIt was clearly regrettable that the Building had to close and that there was disruption to public engagement activities so soon after the Assembly resumed normal business in January. The Speaker and the Commission are currently giving consideration to activities and initiatives that could be undertaken next year once we are in a position to do so.\n\nUnfortunately, the Commission cannot be more definitive about when the building will be able to re-open fully to the public but, like everyone else, the Commission is hopeful that the reported success of potential vaccines and continuing vigilance by everyone will help that re-opening happen sooner rather than later.","answerHtml":"The Commission took the decision to close Parliament Buildings to the public from 9pm on Wednesday 18 March, in light of the coronavirus pandemic.
While no public tours, events or visitor activities have taken place since then and only permanent Assembly passholders and those essential to the delivery of Assembly business have had access to the building since then, the focus has been on ensuring that the Assembly can continue to meet to carry out its legislative and scrutiny functions.
At its meeting on 9 December 2020, the Commission agreed that in light of the ongoing health risks and restrictions in place, that Parliament Buildings should remain closed to the public until 28 February 2021 and that the situation would, again be reviewed at that time.
That consideration will, of course, take account of the prevailing public health situation and, as ever, will continue to follow the guidance issued by relevant entities such as the Public Health Agency and will fully comply with all Regulations in place.
It was clearly regrettable that the Building had to close and that there was disruption to public engagement activities so soon after the Assembly resumed normal business in January. The Speaker and the Commission are currently giving consideration to activities and initiatives that could be undertaken next year once we are in a position to do so.
Unfortunately, the Commission cannot be more definitive about when the building will be able to re-open fully to the public but, like everyone else, the Commission is hopeful that the reported success of potential vaccines and continuing vigilance by everyone will help that re-opening happen sooner rather than later.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201331%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=322756","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=322756"}},{"id":"320083","reference":"AQO 1282/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2020-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on her plans for the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer.","answerText":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme is a priority in the New Decade New Approach Deal. The delivery of the Programme provides a real opportunity to contribute to the delivery of wider government priorities and to address a range of social, economic and cultural needs, whilst also meeting the needs of the football family.\n\nCurrently my officials are undertaking work to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme. This includes a club survey and a series of strategic discussions with the key stakeholders who oversee the game, operate the facilities, support football and play the sport at all levels.\n\nA Working Group has also been established with representatives from the key stakeholders involved, including Councils, IFA, NIFL, SportNI and the Department. This will ensure a collaborative approach to developing the shape and scope of the programme.\n\nThis work aims to ensure that the programme reflects the current and future needs of local football.\n\nA full analysis of the outcomes of both of these exercises, along with benchmarking and research, will inform my proposals on the future of this Programme.\n\nFollowing this work I will present recommendations to Executive colleagues on the future implementation of the Programme including the timetable for delivery.","answerHtml":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme is a priority in the New Decade New Approach Deal. The delivery of the Programme provides a real opportunity to contribute to the delivery of wider government priorities and to address a range of social, economic and cultural needs, whilst also meeting the needs of the football family.
Currently my officials are undertaking work to provide a robust and up-to-date evidence base for the Programme. This includes a club survey and a series of strategic discussions with the key stakeholders who oversee the game, operate the facilities, support football and play the sport at all levels.
A Working Group has also been established with representatives from the key stakeholders involved, including Councils, IFA, NIFL, SportNI and the Department. This will ensure a collaborative approach to developing the shape and scope of the programme.
This work aims to ensure that the programme reflects the current and future needs of local football.
A full analysis of the outcomes of both of these exercises, along with benchmarking and research, will inform my proposals on the future of this Programme.
Following this work I will present recommendations to Executive colleagues on the future implementation of the Programme including the timetable for delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201282%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=320083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=320083"}},{"id":"317774","reference":"AQO 1258/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-26","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2020-12-07","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs for his assessment of farm gate prices in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds (The Minister for the Economy)","text":"I thank the Member for her question. Mr Principal Deputy Speaker, with your permission and before we start, I inform the House that I am happy to stand in for my colleague and that I spoke to him this morning. He had his toast and porridge, was in very good form and is looking forward to getting out of hospital. Obviously, he had quite a traumatic period over the weekend. We will do our best to answer your questions as they arise. The Department publishes statistical reports that contain the latest average farm-gate prices in Northern Ireland. Each of those reports average prices for the latest period, along with comparisons against prices in previous periods. Those reports show that average beef, lamb and pig prices from January to September 2020 were higher than those of the same period in 2019, whereas average milk prices have been 0·9p per litre lower. They also show that average prices since September have remained around or above prices of the previous year for each of the farm products that are reported."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Minister, and please pass on my best wishes to Minister Poots for a speedy recovery. It is quite fortunate that the Minister for the Economy is answering these questions. If the Principal Deputy Speaker will indulge me, can I ask the Minister for the Economy to give her assessment of farm-gate prices in Northern Ireland given that agriculture is one of the largest industries in Northern Ireland and underpins our local economy?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Thank you for the question. In many ways, agriculture was an area of policy that I looked at for many years in the European Parliament. I really enjoyed meeting and talking to the sectors right across Northern Ireland. We understand, from the published statistics, that milk prices are, on average, a little lower. Although milk prices for September were 1·59p higher than in September 2018, the average price across the period is 0·9% lower. That represents volatility and shows that the price is lower than the rest of the United Kingdom. It also represents the market and the exposure that Northern Ireland milk prices have, for example, to the commodity market. In GB, much greater supplies of milk go into the liquid market and supermarkets and producers can have longer and more stable contracts. We understand that, for the week ending 21 November, beef prices are 13·2% higher than for the same period last year."},{"speaker":"","text":"That is a difference of £150 per finished head of cattle and is a significant uplift in beef prices. In fact, we probably are third in the EU league table for beef prices. Nevertheless, and again from a processing point of view, this is typically a low-margin process where issues of competitiveness and productivity are hugely important. Pig prices have remained much the same, and —"},{"speaker":"Mr Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"I am afraid —"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"— dropped calf prices are round about, or slightly higher, than we would have expected."},{"speaker":"Mr Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"I am loath to interrupt the Minister, and she will probably give me a kicking for it afterwards"},{"speaker":"","text":"but it is important that we try to stick to two minutes or less."},{"speaker":"Mr Allister","text":"Looking forward, Minister, under the iniquitous protocol, overheads and production costs will be very adversely affected by reason of feedstuff and fertiliser imports. What is the likely consequence for profitability, for farm-gate prices and, indeed, for consumer prices, of the gallows for the Union that Mr Poots is building at our ports?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Of course the ports issue is an implementation rather than an end of the transition period issue. For Northern Ireland as a whole, let us be absolutely clear that my party believes that having a free-trade deal and zero quotas and zero tariffs is in the best interests of Northern Ireland. We think, and we want people to understand, that there are issues under the protocol that could be sorted out. We want to see unfettered access between us and our main market. I understand that the Internal Market Bill is being reintroduced in Parliament today and that there is a legislative route for that in the United Kingdom. However, there are also routes for that in the Joint Committee. Sensible, practical, pragmatic approaches by the EU could ensure that those things happen. We want to understand that goods at risk will be sorted out in the Joint Committee and that, as the Member quite rightly says, goods coming into Northern Ireland for input into the agricultural sector are treated as not being at risk of going into the single market."},{"speaker":"Mr McGlone","text":"I join others in wishing Edwin all the very best for a speedy and full recovery. It is a tricky enough situation that he found himself in over the weekend. Minister, I do not necessarily expect you to know the answer to my question because it is a bit complicated. However, I was contacted this morning by a sheep farmer who has bought hundreds of sheep that are in the UK. Before the sheep can be brought over here, they have to be a year old and that year will take them into the new year. With everything that is going on at the moment, he finds himself in a new year limbo as to whether he may bring them over. He has invested hundreds of thousands of pounds in that stock. We spoke earlier about productivity, but we need the product in order to be productive. Perhaps the Minster could get back to me with some clarity on that."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Yes. Thank you for your good wishes to Edwin. I will certainly pass on the good wishes of the House when I speak to him later and give him an update on how we got on. In fact, the Minister updated the Executive on this issue at our EU meeting on Thursday, as he has been working on it over the past number of days. As yet, there still needs to be a resolution, but I will, of course, ask the Minister to write to you specifically on the issue and on any ways of resolving the impasse."},{"speaker":"Mrs Barton","text":"Minister, if you could also pass on my good wishes to Mr Poots and wish him a speedy recovery. Might an oversight body similar to the Groceries Code Adjudicator, in place throughout the United Kingdom but tailored for Northern Ireland's needs, improve farm-gate prices in future?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Again, I thank the Member for her good wishes. There has been much talk about minimum-price legislation and about Northern Ireland primary producers being price-takers as opposed to price-makers in the whole supply-chain system. Personally, I think that, while the Groceries Code Adjudicator had the potential to do good things, the lack of any kind of enforcement powers meant that, although it sounded good, it did not actually have the powers to respond to the needs of the supply chain. Therefore, if we were to have more of that, it would need to have much more legislative power to take remedial action."},{"speaker":"Ms Sheerin","text":"This follows on from the question asked by my constituency colleague Mr McGlone. I have written to your colleague Mr Poots about the fact that sheep are now being brought in from Scotland, the majority of which are blackface sheep that require scrapie monitoring. I just want to impress upon the Minister the urgency of the situation, given that, as Mr McGlone mentioned, this involves thousands of pounds for local sheep producers, who are depending upon sheep that they have already bought from Scotland."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Again, I know that the Minister is alive to the situation and will respond to it. On a general point, this demonstrates the issues with the protocol and how some in the House who call for its full implementation are creating rods for the backs of some of our farmers."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201258%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317774","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-12-07&docID=319200#AQO%201258/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317774"}},{"id":"317558","reference":"AQW 10976/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-25","answerBy":"2020-12-10","answered":"2020-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) what plans he has to deal with the issue of fly-grazing, particularly regarding horses when they are left or dumped on land not owned by the owners of the horses; (ii) whether he has plans to create or initiate a control of horses act, similar to that of England and Wales; (iii) what powers his Department currently has to act on the issue of fly-grazing; and (iv) for his assessment on whether there is a difference between this practice and other kinds of dumping, fly-tipping and illegal waste disposal on public or private land.","answerText":"While my Department does not hold specific powers with regard to the fly-grazing of horses, under existing legislation, if someone finds a horse fly-grazing on their land they may detain it. If the owner or keeper of the horse is unknown, they must notify the Police Service of Northern Ireland within 48 hours. After 14 days, if no owner is identified, the land owner/occupier can sell the horse at a market or public auction.\n\nThe legislation that governs fly-grazing falls under the remit of the Department of Finance. I currently consider it to be sufficiently robust to deal with the matter and, therefore, have no immediate plans to approach the Department of Finance to request any additional legislation on the matter.\n\nFly-grazing is different from other kinds of dumping such as fly-tipping and illegal waste disposal, in that cognisance must be given to the welfare of the animals involved in fly-grazing incidents.","answerHtml":"While my Department does not hold specific powers with regard to the fly-grazing of horses, under existing legislation, if someone finds a horse fly-grazing on their land they may detain it. If the owner or keeper of the horse is unknown, they must notify the Police Service of Northern Ireland within 48 hours. After 14 days, if no owner is identified, the land owner/occupier can sell the horse at a market or public auction.
The legislation that governs fly-grazing falls under the remit of the Department of Finance. I currently consider it to be sufficiently robust to deal with the matter and, therefore, have no immediate plans to approach the Department of Finance to request any additional legislation on the matter.
Fly-grazing is different from other kinds of dumping such as fly-tipping and illegal waste disposal, in that cognisance must be given to the welfare of the animals involved in fly-grazing incidents.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010976%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317558","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317558"}},{"id":"317557","reference":"AQW 10975/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-25","answerBy":"2020-12-10","answered":"2020-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has to (i) provide funding to dentists to pay for personal protective equipment and new ventilation equipment that would enable a reduction in fallow times; (ii) create a more nuanced plan for local dentists rather then relying on the UK-wide recommendations; (iii) reduce the fallow time between appointments; and (iv) commission an audit of practices’ ventilation capacity to establish a baseline and to see where capital investment may be required for surgeries that will require additional ventilation measures.","answerText":"The current Northern Ireland Oral Health Strategy (OHS) was published in 2007 and, despite its age, the main oral health problems described in the document and the approaches to prevention advocated by it remain valid today.\n\nThe challenges facing the HSC and DoH today mean that, unfortunately, the significant resources required to develop a new wide-ranging OHS are not available at this time. However, the importance of analysing the oral health status of the population and recommending evidence-based approaches to health improvement is recognised. Therefore, as soon as there is sufficient capacity available, my officials will complete the work which began in late 2019 of establishing two oral health options groups. One group will be dedicated to improving the oral health of children while the other will specifically look at how elderly oral health may be improved.\n\nI have provided approximately £0.97 million in level 1 PPE which was delivered in July to Northern Ireland dental practices and £3.8 million of funding was added to the GDS budget to cover additional PPE costs incurred by practitioners in the August to November period. These levels of funding will continue for the rest of the year and the position remains under review.\n\nThe introduction of the new Northern Ireland dental operational guidance in October has significantly reduced the fallow time for the average Northern Ireland practice. This has meant that the ventilation issue is less crucial in determining dentists' activity. Furthermore, practice ventilation system technology is evolving and significant investment at this stage would for most practices be premature.\n\nThe general UK IPC guidance and the specific dental annex draw heavily upon the work of leading UK dental academics in the fields of virology, aero biology, health protection and ventilation engineering. The highest level of expertise in these fields is only accessible through the various UK IPC networks into which Northern Ireland is connected. There is some scope for Northern Ireland to operationalise the UK IPC guidance differently but, given the gaps in our knowledge in relation to SARS-CoV-2, there are inherent risks in any significant deviation from the official UK IPC guidance.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland guidance allows fallow periods which are approximately 50% less than those required under the previous guidance. It also specifies minimum fallow periods dependent upon clinical circumstances. It is the Department's current position that going below these minimum times would lead to an unacceptable increase in the risk of Coronavirus transmission.","answerHtml":"The current Northern Ireland Oral Health Strategy (OHS) was published in 2007 and, despite its age, the main oral health problems described in the document and the approaches to prevention advocated by it remain valid today.
The challenges facing the HSC and DoH today mean that, unfortunately, the significant resources required to develop a new wide-ranging OHS are not available at this time. However, the importance of analysing the oral health status of the population and recommending evidence-based approaches to health improvement is recognised. Therefore, as soon as there is sufficient capacity available, my officials will complete the work which began in late 2019 of establishing two oral health options groups. One group will be dedicated to improving the oral health of children while the other will specifically look at how elderly oral health may be improved.
I have provided approximately £0.97 million in level 1 PPE which was delivered in July to Northern Ireland dental practices and £3.8 million of funding was added to the GDS budget to cover additional PPE costs incurred by practitioners in the August to November period. These levels of funding will continue for the rest of the year and the position remains under review.
The introduction of the new Northern Ireland dental operational guidance in October has significantly reduced the fallow time for the average Northern Ireland practice. This has meant that the ventilation issue is less crucial in determining dentists' activity. Furthermore, practice ventilation system technology is evolving and significant investment at this stage would for most practices be premature.
The general UK IPC guidance and the specific dental annex draw heavily upon the work of leading UK dental academics in the fields of virology, aero biology, health protection and ventilation engineering. The highest level of expertise in these fields is only accessible through the various UK IPC networks into which Northern Ireland is connected. There is some scope for Northern Ireland to operationalise the UK IPC guidance differently but, given the gaps in our knowledge in relation to SARS-CoV-2, there are inherent risks in any significant deviation from the official UK IPC guidance.
The new Northern Ireland guidance allows fallow periods which are approximately 50% less than those required under the previous guidance. It also specifies minimum fallow periods dependent upon clinical circumstances. It is the Department's current position that going below these minimum times would lead to an unacceptable increase in the risk of Coronavirus transmission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010975%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317557","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317557"}},{"id":"317556","reference":"AQW 10974/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-25","answerBy":"2020-12-10","answered":"2021-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the GDS dentistry contract; (ii) what plans he has to address the 30 per cent real terms loss of earnings by dentists; and (iii) what conversations has he had or plans to have with the Minister for the Economy to secure a financial package to support dentists.","answerText":"It remains a long term goal to develop and implement new contracts for General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), orthodontists and primary care oral surgeons in Northern Ireland. Engagement with the British Dental Association (BDA) and the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) on this workstream has been unavoidably interrupted by the need the focus resources on the Department’s response to Covid-19. This engagement remains important and will continue when resources permit in 2021.\n\nFor the last four years dentists have received the full pay uplift as recommended in the annual Doctor and Dentist Remuneration Board (DDRB). The 48th DDRB report was published on 21 July 2020 and the recommendations from it are currently under consideration.\n\nTo date there has been an additional investment of almost £15million in General Dental Services (GDS) through the Financial Support Scheme (FSS) and provision of Personal Protective Equipment. Most dental practices in Northern Ireland provide both private and Health Service Dentistry. There are only a small number of fully private dental practices in Northern Ireland and as such most GDPs have been able to avail of the FSS.\n\nIn terms of the private proportion of dental activity, my Department does not have the legal authority to provide a similar support, only having powers to do so in respect of General Dental Services.\n\nI have written to the Minister for the Economy suggesting that consideration be given to establishing a grant scheme to assist practices in respect of private dentistry. I have made clear I am happy for my officials to work with their colleagues in the Department for the Economy (DfE) to develop support arrangements and for Business Services Organisation to help administer such a scheme.","answerHtml":"It remains a long term goal to develop and implement new contracts for General Dental Practitioners (GDPs), orthodontists and primary care oral surgeons in Northern Ireland. Engagement with the British Dental Association (BDA) and the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) on this workstream has been unavoidably interrupted by the need the focus resources on the Department’s response to Covid-19. This engagement remains important and will continue when resources permit in 2021.
For the last four years dentists have received the full pay uplift as recommended in the annual Doctor and Dentist Remuneration Board (DDRB). The 48th DDRB report was published on 21 July 2020 and the recommendations from it are currently under consideration.
To date there has been an additional investment of almost £15million in General Dental Services (GDS) through the Financial Support Scheme (FSS) and provision of Personal Protective Equipment. Most dental practices in Northern Ireland provide both private and Health Service Dentistry. There are only a small number of fully private dental practices in Northern Ireland and as such most GDPs have been able to avail of the FSS.
In terms of the private proportion of dental activity, my Department does not have the legal authority to provide a similar support, only having powers to do so in respect of General Dental Services.
I have written to the Minister for the Economy suggesting that consideration be given to establishing a grant scheme to assist practices in respect of private dentistry. I have made clear I am happy for my officials to work with their colleagues in the Department for the Economy (DfE) to develop support arrangements and for Business Services Organisation to help administer such a scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010974%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317556","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317556"}},{"id":"317555","reference":"AQW 10973/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-25","answerBy":"2020-12-10","answered":"2020-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what plans he has for developing a new oral health strategy.","answerText":"The current Northern Ireland Oral Health Strategy (OHS) was published in 2007 and, despite its age, the main oral health problems described in the document and the approaches to prevention advocated by it remain valid today.\n\nThe challenges facing the HSC and DoH today mean that, unfortunately, the significant resources required to develop a new wide-ranging OHS are not available at this time. However, the importance of analysing the oral health status of the population and recommending evidence-based approaches to health improvement is recognised. Therefore, as soon as there is sufficient capacity available, my officials will complete the work which began in late 2019 of establishing two oral health options groups. One group will be dedicated to improving the oral health of children while the other will specifically look at how elderly oral health may be improved.\n\nI have provided approximately £0.97 million in level 1 PPE which was delivered in July to Northern Ireland dental practices and £3.8 million of funding was added to the GDS budget to cover additional PPE costs incurred by practitioners in the August to November period. These levels of funding will continue for the rest of the year and the position remains under review.\n\nThe introduction of the new Northern Ireland dental operational guidance in October has significantly reduced the fallow time for the average Northern Ireland practice. This has meant that the ventilation issue is less crucial in determining dentists' activity. Furthermore, practice ventilation system technology is evolving and significant investment at this stage would for most practices be premature.\n\nThe general UK IPC guidance and the specific dental annex draw heavily upon the work of leading UK dental academics in the fields of virology, aero biology, health protection and ventilation engineering. The highest level of expertise in these fields is only accessible through the various UK IPC networks into which Northern Ireland is connected. There is some scope for Northern Ireland to operationalise the UK IPC guidance differently but, given the gaps in our knowledge in relation to SARS-CoV-2, there are inherent risks in any significant deviation from the official UK IPC guidance.\n\nThe new Northern Ireland guidance allows fallow periods which are approximately 50% less than those required under the previous guidance. It also specifies minimum fallow periods dependent upon clinical circumstances. It is the Department's current position that going below these minimum times would lead to an unacceptable increase in the risk of Coronavirus transmission.","answerHtml":"The current Northern Ireland Oral Health Strategy (OHS) was published in 2007 and, despite its age, the main oral health problems described in the document and the approaches to prevention advocated by it remain valid today.
The challenges facing the HSC and DoH today mean that, unfortunately, the significant resources required to develop a new wide-ranging OHS are not available at this time. However, the importance of analysing the oral health status of the population and recommending evidence-based approaches to health improvement is recognised. Therefore, as soon as there is sufficient capacity available, my officials will complete the work which began in late 2019 of establishing two oral health options groups. One group will be dedicated to improving the oral health of children while the other will specifically look at how elderly oral health may be improved.
I have provided approximately £0.97 million in level 1 PPE which was delivered in July to Northern Ireland dental practices and £3.8 million of funding was added to the GDS budget to cover additional PPE costs incurred by practitioners in the August to November period. These levels of funding will continue for the rest of the year and the position remains under review.
The introduction of the new Northern Ireland dental operational guidance in October has significantly reduced the fallow time for the average Northern Ireland practice. This has meant that the ventilation issue is less crucial in determining dentists' activity. Furthermore, practice ventilation system technology is evolving and significant investment at this stage would for most practices be premature.
The general UK IPC guidance and the specific dental annex draw heavily upon the work of leading UK dental academics in the fields of virology, aero biology, health protection and ventilation engineering. The highest level of expertise in these fields is only accessible through the various UK IPC networks into which Northern Ireland is connected. There is some scope for Northern Ireland to operationalise the UK IPC guidance differently but, given the gaps in our knowledge in relation to SARS-CoV-2, there are inherent risks in any significant deviation from the official UK IPC guidance.
The new Northern Ireland guidance allows fallow periods which are approximately 50% less than those required under the previous guidance. It also specifies minimum fallow periods dependent upon clinical circumstances. It is the Department's current position that going below these minimum times would lead to an unacceptable increase in the risk of Coronavirus transmission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010973%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317555"}},{"id":"317554","reference":"AQW 10972/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-25","answerBy":"2020-12-10","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to detail the mechanism by which the £200 High Street Voucher Scheme will be distributed to households; (ii) which businesses will the voucher be able to be used in; and (iii) how the term household will be determined.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation for a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus scheme and has a clear policy objective for this funding.\n\nThe scheme is not being designed for households. Rather, it will provide individual citizens with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.\n\nThe delivery of the scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative financial support offering – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.\n\nIn developing the specifics of the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives. This will include considerations such as the card value per individual, and how the card will operate in practice.\n\nIt is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and its implementation will take into account all public health guidance.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy has been provided with a financial allocation for a Northern Ireland wide High Street Stimulus scheme and has a clear policy objective for this funding.
The scheme is not being designed for households. Rather, it will provide individual citizens with a prepaid card to be spent at ‘bricks and mortar’ businesses including retail, restaurants and hotels before the end of March 2021. It will not be available for online sales.
The delivery of the scheme will inject £95m into our local economy. The multiplier effect of this innovative financial support offering – from people spending more than the value of the card and the ripple effects from purchases – will deliver even greater economic benefits and make a significant step to kick-starting our recovery.
In developing the specifics of the Northern Ireland High Street Stimulus scheme, the Department will implement learnings from Jersey, Malta and other jurisdictions that have rolled out similar initiatives. This will include considerations such as the card value per individual, and how the card will operate in practice.
It is anticipated that the scheme will to ‘go live’ in early 2021 and its implementation will take into account all public health guidance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010972%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317554","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317554"}},{"id":"317242","reference":"AQW 10863/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, given that the Scottish government has recently created a £5 million fund to address digital poverty in colleges and universities, and the ROI government has announced that 17,000 laptops will be made available for third level students, what her plans are to address the digital divide in Further Education and Higher Education in the new academic year.","answerText":"I fully recognise the importance of alleviating digital poverty among further and higher education students, especially given the importance of online teaching in our current situation.\n\nWith 42% of FE learners in Northern Ireland coming from the two lowest deprivation quintiles, digital poverty is a real issue for learners in FE colleges. Following on from the additional £1.078m which I secured during the initial lockdown period to support colleges to purchase laptops, related equipment and software for financially vulnerable learners, I have now secured and allocated a further £2.1 million to the FE colleges to provide staff and students with the necessary equipment in the 2020/21 academic year.\n\nAlongside this, FE colleges are working together to develop a shared best practice approach which will help learners to build up their skills and confidence in the online environment, and to ensure they have access to the best possible online learning experience. This approach will also be informed by the findings from a survey which is due to take place in December 2020 to capture the experience of learners in both online and on-site provision.\n\nIn relation to higher education, my Department already provides a non-repayable maintenance grant to students from lower income households, which can be used to purchase the necessary IT equipment to complete their course. As well as this grant, the universities have a range of measures in place to help reduce digital poverty among their students.\n\nFor example, Ulster University provides access bursaries to students from families on income support; students can decide how to spend the bursaries themselves, including on technology. Ulster University also uses the Department’s Widening Access Funds to stock its libraries with laptops, for students from a widening access background to use on a loan basis. Ulster University has also created a Technology Support Fund, whereby the university procures and provides securely imaged laptops for its most disadvantaged students, to enable them to adapt to teaching and learning in the hybrid, dual teaching mode envisaged for the 2020/21 academic year. The university has committed to supplying 1,000 laptops free to students who meet the eligibility criteria.\n\nQueen’s University has recently introduced a long-term laptop loan scheme, with no loan or hire fees to the student, to enable and support students who may be unable to access the relevant equipment to study online due to financial hardship, digital exclusion, or circumstances specifically related to Covid-19. Queen’s is also seeking to ensure that students will have access to digital resources on-site, for example in the library, where public health regulations permit.\n\nStudents at Stranmillis University College have ready access to significant IT equipment and infrastructure across its campus, including a number of dedicated IT rooms. IT facilities are also available in the University College’s library.\n\nAs well as being able to access on-campus IT equipment, students at St Mary’s University College can borrow laptops from the institution, if needed.","answerHtml":"I fully recognise the importance of alleviating digital poverty among further and higher education students, especially given the importance of online teaching in our current situation.
With 42% of FE learners in Northern Ireland coming from the two lowest deprivation quintiles, digital poverty is a real issue for learners in FE colleges. Following on from the additional £1.078m which I secured during the initial lockdown period to support colleges to purchase laptops, related equipment and software for financially vulnerable learners, I have now secured and allocated a further £2.1 million to the FE colleges to provide staff and students with the necessary equipment in the 2020/21 academic year.
Alongside this, FE colleges are working together to develop a shared best practice approach which will help learners to build up their skills and confidence in the online environment, and to ensure they have access to the best possible online learning experience. This approach will also be informed by the findings from a survey which is due to take place in December 2020 to capture the experience of learners in both online and on-site provision.
In relation to higher education, my Department already provides a non-repayable maintenance grant to students from lower income households, which can be used to purchase the necessary IT equipment to complete their course. As well as this grant, the universities have a range of measures in place to help reduce digital poverty among their students.
For example, Ulster University provides access bursaries to students from families on income support; students can decide how to spend the bursaries themselves, including on technology. Ulster University also uses the Department’s Widening Access Funds to stock its libraries with laptops, for students from a widening access background to use on a loan basis. Ulster University has also created a Technology Support Fund, whereby the university procures and provides securely imaged laptops for its most disadvantaged students, to enable them to adapt to teaching and learning in the hybrid, dual teaching mode envisaged for the 2020/21 academic year. The university has committed to supplying 1,000 laptops free to students who meet the eligibility criteria.
Queen’s University has recently introduced a long-term laptop loan scheme, with no loan or hire fees to the student, to enable and support students who may be unable to access the relevant equipment to study online due to financial hardship, digital exclusion, or circumstances specifically related to Covid-19. Queen’s is also seeking to ensure that students will have access to digital resources on-site, for example in the library, where public health regulations permit.
Students at Stranmillis University College have ready access to significant IT equipment and infrastructure across its campus, including a number of dedicated IT rooms. IT facilities are also available in the University College’s library.
As well as being able to access on-campus IT equipment, students at St Mary’s University College can borrow laptops from the institution, if needed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010863%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317242"}},{"id":"317241","reference":"AQW 10862/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on the Skills Strategy; (ii) whether students have been consulted in its development; and (iii) whether the Skills Strategy will replace the current further education strategy Further Education Means Success.","answerText":"The new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland is being developed for consultation and publication in 2021.\n\nThe draft Strategy consultation document is currently being reviewed by the Project Board and Advisory Group. Then, following Departmental Board and ministerial approval, it will be referred to the Executive for consideration in December. The consultation process will take place early in 2021, with final revisions in the spring and publication of the new Skills Strategy in summer next year.\n\nThe overarching focus of the Strategy is on developing a skills system which drives economic prosperity and tackles social inequality. It is founded upon three major policy objectives: addressing skills imbalances, creating a culture of lifelong learning and enhancing digital education and inclusion across society.\n\nOur aim is to ensure Northern Ireland can capitalise on its established potential in global markets - focusing on our strengths will be key to improving our overall performance in innovation, productivity and competitiveness. At the same time, we must ensure economic success is balanced, by providing everyone with the education and training opportunities that enable them to participate in a rapidly changing labour market.\n\nWe are also developing new governance arrangements to ensure greater collaboration across government and between government, education, business and trade unions. In doing so, we are setting out the fundamental importance of sustained investment in our skills system.\n\nA key proposed commitment for consultation is the creation of a ring-fenced skills fund, to provide new opportunities in the labour market and support the skills development of the working age population as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and prepare for the economic changes brought about by our exit from the EU.\n\nAn extensive stakeholder engagement process was carried out by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, in conjunction with my Department, as part of their research project “Skills Strategy Northern Ireland – Assessment and Recommendations”, which has informed the development of the consultation document. This encompassed engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, including central and local government, industry and academia, though not specifically with students.\n\nHowever, as part of the proposed public consultation, the Skills Strategy team will offer focused consultation workshops directly to specific groups which have not had a significant role in shaping our research and consultation documents to date and this will include students, through NUS/USI.\n\nThe work which has been taken forward under the Further Education Means Success (FEMS) Strategy has transformed how FE colleges carry out their role, with the result that they are now even better equipped to deliver the knowledge and skills that learners need to gain employment and to contribute to the development and growth of the economy. Twenty-five of the thirty-eight milestones identified in the eight FEMS Action Plans have now been delivered and work to achieve the remaining milestones will continue alongside the development and delivery of an action plan to implement the relevant areas of the Skills Strategy.","answerHtml":"The new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland is being developed for consultation and publication in 2021.
The draft Strategy consultation document is currently being reviewed by the Project Board and Advisory Group. Then, following Departmental Board and ministerial approval, it will be referred to the Executive for consideration in December. The consultation process will take place early in 2021, with final revisions in the spring and publication of the new Skills Strategy in summer next year.
The overarching focus of the Strategy is on developing a skills system which drives economic prosperity and tackles social inequality. It is founded upon three major policy objectives: addressing skills imbalances, creating a culture of lifelong learning and enhancing digital education and inclusion across society.
Our aim is to ensure Northern Ireland can capitalise on its established potential in global markets - focusing on our strengths will be key to improving our overall performance in innovation, productivity and competitiveness. At the same time, we must ensure economic success is balanced, by providing everyone with the education and training opportunities that enable them to participate in a rapidly changing labour market.
We are also developing new governance arrangements to ensure greater collaboration across government and between government, education, business and trade unions. In doing so, we are setting out the fundamental importance of sustained investment in our skills system.
A key proposed commitment for consultation is the creation of a ring-fenced skills fund, to provide new opportunities in the labour market and support the skills development of the working age population as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic and prepare for the economic changes brought about by our exit from the EU.
An extensive stakeholder engagement process was carried out by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, in conjunction with my Department, as part of their research project “Skills Strategy Northern Ireland – Assessment and Recommendations”, which has informed the development of the consultation document. This encompassed engagement with a wide range of stakeholders, including central and local government, industry and academia, though not specifically with students.
However, as part of the proposed public consultation, the Skills Strategy team will offer focused consultation workshops directly to specific groups which have not had a significant role in shaping our research and consultation documents to date and this will include students, through NUS/USI.
The work which has been taken forward under the Further Education Means Success (FEMS) Strategy has transformed how FE colleges carry out their role, with the result that they are now even better equipped to deliver the knowledge and skills that learners need to gain employment and to contribute to the development and growth of the economy. Twenty-five of the thirty-eight milestones identified in the eight FEMS Action Plans have now been delivered and work to achieve the remaining milestones will continue alongside the development and delivery of an action plan to implement the relevant areas of the Skills Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010862%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317241"}},{"id":"317240","reference":"AQW 10861/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2021-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, given that, compared to English and Welsh postgraduate students, Northern Irish postgraduate students have access to only 50 per cent of the tuition loans, and have no access to living support loans, while paying the same fees, whether her Department plans to address this inequality and review the current postgraduate loan system.","answerText":"I can confirm that I do intend to examine this issue.\n\nThe Department’s proposed Postgraduate Loan Review is a complex piece of work comprising different strands of the postgraduate funding system in Northern Ireland. It is anticipated that the appropriateness of the current postgraduate fee loan of up to £5,500 towards the cost of taught postgraduate courses, will be reviewed alongside a range of potential options for maintenance loans or grants. Separate from that, there will be a review of the Postgraduate Awards Scheme.\n\nIt is anticipated that a public consultation on the Postgraduate Loan Review, comprising the different options for fee loans and maintenance provision, will be published shortly. However, you will appreciate that the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic for higher education are currently taking priority.\n\nWith respect to a date of implementation for any approved policy changes following the consultation, this will be dependent on the ability of the Student Loans Company to implement any policy changes.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that I do intend to examine this issue.
The Department’s proposed Postgraduate Loan Review is a complex piece of work comprising different strands of the postgraduate funding system in Northern Ireland. It is anticipated that the appropriateness of the current postgraduate fee loan of up to £5,500 towards the cost of taught postgraduate courses, will be reviewed alongside a range of potential options for maintenance loans or grants. Separate from that, there will be a review of the Postgraduate Awards Scheme.
It is anticipated that a public consultation on the Postgraduate Loan Review, comprising the different options for fee loans and maintenance provision, will be published shortly. However, you will appreciate that the implications of the Covid-19 pandemic for higher education are currently taking priority.
With respect to a date of implementation for any approved policy changes following the consultation, this will be dependent on the ability of the Student Loans Company to implement any policy changes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010861%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317240"}},{"id":"317239","reference":"AQW 10860/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-24","answerBy":"2020-12-09","answered":"2020-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the amount of funding currently allocated to deal with student mental health; (ii) what conversations he has had with the Minister for the Economy regarding this issue; and (iii) whether his Department plans to adopt a similar strategy to the Scottish government which, in 2019, announced a £20 million investment over the following four years for student mental health.","answerText":"My Department is not responsible for student welfare budgets, however in 2019/20 the Public Health Agency provided £13,800 for student mental health resources and services. For 2020/21 the PHA has also approached universities for proposals for further funding provision for student mental wellbeing.\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust, Queens University, Belfast and the University of Ulster jointly provide £169k for the pilot student mental health service.\n\nI have not had any discussions with the Minister for the Economy on this issue. All Departments are represented on the Protect Life 2 Steering Group and regular updates are provided from the Department for Economy for the Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention.\n\nThere are no current plans for a similar strategy.","answerHtml":"My Department is not responsible for student welfare budgets, however in 2019/20 the Public Health Agency provided £13,800 for student mental health resources and services. For 2020/21 the PHA has also approached universities for proposals for further funding provision for student mental wellbeing.
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Queens University, Belfast and the University of Ulster jointly provide £169k for the pilot student mental health service.
I have not had any discussions with the Minister for the Economy on this issue. All Departments are represented on the Protect Life 2 Steering Group and regular updates are provided from the Department for Economy for the Executive Working Group on Mental Wellbeing, Resilience and Suicide Prevention.
There are no current plans for a similar strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010860%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317239"}},{"id":"317096","reference":"AQW 10758/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-11-26","answered":"2020-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) what communication she has had with universities in Great Britain regarding the repatriation this Christmas of Northern Irish students studying in Great Britain; and (ii) to detail her plans for facilitating this, including (a) timescale, windows; (b) testing requirements; and (c) alternative travel arrangements should bus, rail, air and boat services be unavailable due to overbooking.","answerText":"My Department has no responsibility for the return of students to Northern Ireland nor for their transport arrangements and therefore there have been no discussions with any universities in Great Britain on this subject. Any such advice and guidance must therefore be provided by the relevant public health authorities, and I have made this case to both the Minister of Health as well as my Executive colleagues.","answerHtml":"My Department has no responsibility for the return of students to Northern Ireland nor for their transport arrangements and therefore there have been no discussions with any universities in Great Britain on this subject. Any such advice and guidance must therefore be provided by the relevant public health authorities, and I have made this case to both the Minister of Health as well as my Executive colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010758%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317096"}},{"id":"317095","reference":"AQW 10757/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what initiatives she has created to help older and more vulnerable people better use online technology to keep in touch with friends and family and access goods and services.","answerText":"My Department has created a number of initiatives to help older and more vulnerable people better use online technology to keep in touch with friends and family, and to access goods and services as set out below:\n\nMy Department leads on the Executive’s Active Ageing Strategy, which contains a number of actions from across departments focused on the digital inclusion of older people. These can be found on pages 22-23 of the Strategy (available at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/active-ageing-strategy-2016-2022).\n\n£800k has been ring-fenced for the purchase of digital devices within VCSE COVID-19 Recovery Fund that I launched recently and will be available to organisations seeking to support older and vulnerable people within our community.\n\nAs part of the rollout plan for Universal Credit to support people and to improve their digital skills, a series of events were held in Jobs & Benefits offices. My Department worked in partnership with advice organisations and LibrariesNI to provide digital support. Staff in Jobs & Benefits offices provide help to people to improve their digital skills on a daily basis, and work closely with grass roots organisations to improve digital inclusion across our communities.\n\nThe Housing Executive has been involved in delivering or partnering a number of initiatives aimed at assisting older and more vulnerable people to become or remain connected online, such as the 2016/17 Digital Inclusion Pilot exercise, part-funded by the DFP/Digital Inclusion Unit & DSD (DfC). Supporting Communities provided training to tenants and residents including the elderly on using social media platforms and engaging with public services online, as well as encouraging them to use online services, for example, to report repairs.\n\nCommunity Grants and COVID-19 Response funding supported the provision of digital equipment to a range of community organisations and residents.\n\n83 refurbished laptops were made available to the Housing Executive’s Housing Community Network organisations, and tablets were provided to Central Housing Forum (CHF) members who represent a network of over 500 community organisations. This helped older and vulnerable people to access to online services.\n\nHousing Executive provided the 12 members of the Disability Housing Forum with new tablets and digital training sessions during late June 2020.\n\nSupporting People (SP) service providers have used online activities such as virtual classes, online socialising, newsletters, befriending schemes and referrals to community support to help service users.\n\nThis year, the Housing Executive has been involved in the ONSIDE (Outreach and Navigation for Social Inclusion and Digital Engagement) project aimed at supporting individuals with a disability to improve their health and wellbeing through increased social and digital involvement in the community, and to reduce social isolation by creating community connections in their local area and digital connections online. This is a cross border funded project led by Disability Action NI in partnership with the Housing Executive, the Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI), and Supporting Communities (SC). Since June, the Housing Executive has placed 300 digital devices with individuals who are now completing online training sessions aimed at supporting individuals to use IT to complete tasks and remain connected.\n\nIn 2020/21 the SP Provider Innovation Fund was specifically aimed at innovative projects that support clients to make the best use of technology, with £0.5m of funding provided annually. It has been evident through successful applications to the fund that greater levels of digital connectivity and digital inclusion have been realised.\n\nThe Housing Executive has implemented an 'Assisted Living' pilot scheme in Derry with the aim of improving the quality of life and social interaction for tenants who are living with disabilities or mobility issues, aged between 16 and 68. This pilot is a joint initiative with the Health and Social Care Trust Occupational Therapy Service and Hive Studios for a group of 18 households with elderly, disabled and/or vulnerable tenants. Working together to identify assisted technologies to support the circumstances of each individual tenant, the partnership has deployed a range of fully customisable, broadband-enabled 'smart devices' to each of the scheme's participants.\n\nA further project is currently being developed, involving Assisted Living Technology in a vacant block of flats in Lisnafin in Strabane. I understand that the business case for the scheme will shortly be referred to my Department for consideration.","answerHtml":"My Department has created a number of initiatives to help older and more vulnerable people better use online technology to keep in touch with friends and family, and to access goods and services as set out below:
My Department leads on the Executive’s Active Ageing Strategy, which contains a number of actions from across departments focused on the digital inclusion of older people. These can be found on pages 22-23 of the Strategy (available at www.communities-ni.gov.uk/publications/active-ageing-strategy-2016-2022).
£800k has been ring-fenced for the purchase of digital devices within VCSE COVID-19 Recovery Fund that I launched recently and will be available to organisations seeking to support older and vulnerable people within our community.
As part of the rollout plan for Universal Credit to support people and to improve their digital skills, a series of events were held in Jobs & Benefits offices. My Department worked in partnership with advice organisations and LibrariesNI to provide digital support. Staff in Jobs & Benefits offices provide help to people to improve their digital skills on a daily basis, and work closely with grass roots organisations to improve digital inclusion across our communities.
The Housing Executive has been involved in delivering or partnering a number of initiatives aimed at assisting older and more vulnerable people to become or remain connected online, such as the 2016/17 Digital Inclusion Pilot exercise, part-funded by the DFP/Digital Inclusion Unit & DSD (DfC). Supporting Communities provided training to tenants and residents including the elderly on using social media platforms and engaging with public services online, as well as encouraging them to use online services, for example, to report repairs.
Community Grants and COVID-19 Response funding supported the provision of digital equipment to a range of community organisations and residents.
83 refurbished laptops were made available to the Housing Executive’s Housing Community Network organisations, and tablets were provided to Central Housing Forum (CHF) members who represent a network of over 500 community organisations. This helped older and vulnerable people to access to online services.
Housing Executive provided the 12 members of the Disability Housing Forum with new tablets and digital training sessions during late June 2020.
Supporting People (SP) service providers have used online activities such as virtual classes, online socialising, newsletters, befriending schemes and referrals to community support to help service users.
This year, the Housing Executive has been involved in the ONSIDE (Outreach and Navigation for Social Inclusion and Digital Engagement) project aimed at supporting individuals with a disability to improve their health and wellbeing through increased social and digital involvement in the community, and to reduce social isolation by creating community connections in their local area and digital connections online. This is a cross border funded project led by Disability Action NI in partnership with the Housing Executive, the Independent Living Movement Ireland (ILMI), and Supporting Communities (SC). Since June, the Housing Executive has placed 300 digital devices with individuals who are now completing online training sessions aimed at supporting individuals to use IT to complete tasks and remain connected.
In 2020/21 the SP Provider Innovation Fund was specifically aimed at innovative projects that support clients to make the best use of technology, with £0.5m of funding provided annually. It has been evident through successful applications to the fund that greater levels of digital connectivity and digital inclusion have been realised.
The Housing Executive has implemented an 'Assisted Living' pilot scheme in Derry with the aim of improving the quality of life and social interaction for tenants who are living with disabilities or mobility issues, aged between 16 and 68. This pilot is a joint initiative with the Health and Social Care Trust Occupational Therapy Service and Hive Studios for a group of 18 households with elderly, disabled and/or vulnerable tenants. Working together to identify assisted technologies to support the circumstances of each individual tenant, the partnership has deployed a range of fully customisable, broadband-enabled 'smart devices' to each of the scheme's participants.
A further project is currently being developed, involving Assisted Living Technology in a vacant block of flats in Lisnafin in Strabane. I understand that the business case for the scheme will shortly be referred to my Department for consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010757%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317095"}},{"id":"317094","reference":"AQW 10756/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the current and forthcoming rules for fathers or birthing partners to attend neonatal scans and appointments along with their pregnant partner.","answerText":"My Department published updated visiting guidance for maternity services (available here: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance), which took effect from 23 September 2020.\n\nThe decision to permit visitors into a facility on a day to day basis remains with the midwife in charge, and will be based on a risk assessment of the ability to ensure safety of patients, staff and the visitor. However, the expectation as set out in the current visiting restrictions is that:\n\n“Birth partners will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to dating scan, early pregnancy clinic, anomaly scan, in the event of pregnancy loss and bereavement, Fetal Medicine Department, when admitted to individual room for active labour (to be determined by midwife) and birth and, to visit in antenatal and postnatal wards for up to one hour once a week.”\n\nWhile my officials keep the guidance under review, in line with the best available scientific and medical evidence, no significant changes are currently anticipated.","answerHtml":"My Department published updated visiting guidance for maternity services (available here: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/Covid-19-visiting-guidance), which took effect from 23 September 2020.
The decision to permit visitors into a facility on a day to day basis remains with the midwife in charge, and will be based on a risk assessment of the ability to ensure safety of patients, staff and the visitor. However, the expectation as set out in the current visiting restrictions is that:
“Birth partners will be facilitated to accompany the pregnant woman to dating scan, early pregnancy clinic, anomaly scan, in the event of pregnancy loss and bereavement, Fetal Medicine Department, when admitted to individual room for active labour (to be determined by midwife) and birth and, to visit in antenatal and postnatal wards for up to one hour once a week.”
While my officials keep the guidance under review, in line with the best available scientific and medical evidence, no significant changes are currently anticipated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010756%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317094","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317094"}},{"id":"317093","reference":"AQW 10755/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2021-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) what plans she has to introduce a £500 payment to workers forced to self-isolate for 14 days, similar to the Council-operated scheme in England; and (ii) for her assessment of whether such a scheme would have a positive effect on the number of workers failing to adhere to the rules of their 14-day self-isolation by instead going to work to earn money.","answerText":"The Department for Communities has already introduced a non-repayable Discretionary Support Self-Isolation grant where a person or a member of their immediate family is diagnosed with COVID-19 or is advised to self-isolate in accordance with guidance published by the Public Health Agency.\n\nThe financial assistance this grant provides has helped around 15,000 people throughout this pandemic to a value of £2.1m. Unlike the scheme operated in England, these payments are not taxable, are not linked to enforcement, are not time limited to 14 days and include a specific amount for all dependent children in the household. This means, in fact, payments here can exceed £500 according to individual and family circumstances.\n\nFurther details can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support#toc-2","answerHtml":"The Department for Communities has already introduced a non-repayable Discretionary Support Self-Isolation grant where a person or a member of their immediate family is diagnosed with COVID-19 or is advised to self-isolate in accordance with guidance published by the Public Health Agency.
The financial assistance this grant provides has helped around 15,000 people throughout this pandemic to a value of £2.1m. Unlike the scheme operated in England, these payments are not taxable, are not linked to enforcement, are not time limited to 14 days and include a specific amount for all dependent children in the household. This means, in fact, payments here can exceed £500 according to individual and family circumstances.
Further details can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/extra-financial-support#toc-2
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010755%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317093"}},{"id":"317092","reference":"AQW 10754/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-23","answerBy":"2020-12-08","answered":"2020-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) under what circumstances may a student who has been advised to self-isolate by their school be able to sit their scheduled exam in November, if it falls within the period of self-isolation; (ii) whether, for example, a recent negative COVID-19 test, accompanied by segregation and the use of personal protective equipment, would suffice; and (iii) whether such a student may choose to be awarded either a centre assessed grade based on their recent mock exam or an overall teacher assessed grade instead of taking a scheduled re-sit.","answerText":"The Department published Public Health Guidance to Support Public Examinations on 19 November 2020.\n\nThis guidance sets out arrangements that schools, education settings and other examination centres should implement when delivering public examinations during November 2020 and the rest of the 2020/21 academic year, enabling them to progress in a way which significantly reduces the risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission.\n\nSchools, education settings and other exam centres must follow the public health advice in the Coronavirus (Covid-19) guidance for schools and educational settings in Northern Ireland (published 29 September 2020) and more general guidance published by the Public Health Agency.\n\n(i) and (ii) Current Public Health Advice in respect of these questions is the student must self-isolate. Students cannot take examinations during their period of isolation. In these cases CCEA will provide advice directly on contingency arrangements.\n\n(iii) Centre Assessment Grades cannot be utilised in place of public examination outcomes in the CCEA November 2020 series of examinations.","answerHtml":"The Department published Public Health Guidance to Support Public Examinations on 19 November 2020.
This guidance sets out arrangements that schools, education settings and other examination centres should implement when delivering public examinations during November 2020 and the rest of the 2020/21 academic year, enabling them to progress in a way which significantly reduces the risk of coronavirus (COVID-19) transmission.
Schools, education settings and other exam centres must follow the public health advice in the Coronavirus (Covid-19) guidance for schools and educational settings in Northern Ireland (published 29 September 2020) and more general guidance published by the Public Health Agency.
(i) and (ii) Current Public Health Advice in respect of these questions is the student must self-isolate. Students cannot take examinations during their period of isolation. In these cases CCEA will provide advice directly on contingency arrangements.
(iii) Centre Assessment Grades cannot be utilised in place of public examination outcomes in the CCEA November 2020 series of examinations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010754%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=317092","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=317092"}},{"id":"316953","reference":"AQW 10687/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-20","answerBy":"2020-11-25","answered":"2020-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to the 27 November 2020 restrictions related to COVID-19, whether private education, skills, training and tutoring organisations can continue to provide services and examinations in any building or premises; and (ii) to detail the restrictions for these organisations continuing to provide services and testing during the specified two week period.","answerText":"Details of the latest version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, that came in to operation on 27 Nov 2020 can be found here:\n\nThe Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"Details of the latest version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, that came in to operation on 27 Nov 2020 can be found here:
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010687%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316953"}},{"id":"316952","reference":"AQW 10686/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-20","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2020-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether businesses forced to close due to 27 November 2020 COVID-19-related restrictions will be allowed to provide a click and collect service from their premises or other agreed pick up point.","answerText":"Under the latest Covid 19 restrictions, which came into operation on Friday 27 November 2020, businesses are permitted to provide a controlled click and collect service. Guidance has been produced to help businesses provide this service.\n\nDetails of the latest version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 can be found here:\n\nThe Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)\n\nDetails of guidance of how businesses should operate their click and collect service can be found here:\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/circuitbreaker-clickandcollect","answerHtml":"Under the latest Covid 19 restrictions, which came into operation on Friday 27 November 2020, businesses are permitted to provide a controlled click and collect service. Guidance has been produced to help businesses provide this service.
Details of the latest version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 can be found here:
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)
Details of guidance of how businesses should operate their click and collect service can be found here:
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/circuitbreaker-clickandcollect
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010686%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316952"}},{"id":"316951","reference":"AQW 10685/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-20","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether community and voluntary organisations are able to provide mental health and social support services, including youth services, in their premises further to the 27 November 2020 COVID-19 related restrictions; and (ii) to detail the current restrictions and guidance for community and voluntary organisations including management meetings.","answerText":"The Executive Office (TEO) are leading on the Covid-19 related restrictions for all departments. The guidance will also be placed on the NI Direct website as soon as it is available.\n\nThe current restrictions can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you","answerHtml":"The Executive Office (TEO) are leading on the Covid-19 related restrictions for all departments. The guidance will also be placed on the NI Direct website as soon as it is available.
The current restrictions can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/coronavirus-covid-19-regulations-guidance-what-restrictions-mean-you
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010685%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316951"}},{"id":"316950","reference":"AQW 10684/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-20","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2020-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, further to the 27 November 2020 COVID-19 restrictions, (i) whether sport massage therapists are allowed to provide services during the specified two week period; and (ii) to define the exemptions of those ancillary to medical, health and social care services: and elite-sport therapeutic services.","answerText":"There is an exemption in the regulations, following the Executive’s latest decision, to allow sports massage therapists to continue to provide their services.\n\nIf a service is commissioned by the HSC it is considered ancillary to medical, health and social care services. There is no restriction on close contact services relating to essential health needs, as defined in the regulations, such as; dental services, opticians, audiology services, chiropody, chiropractors, osteopaths, podiatry and other medical services, including services relating to mental health.","answerHtml":"There is an exemption in the regulations, following the Executive’s latest decision, to allow sports massage therapists to continue to provide their services.
If a service is commissioned by the HSC it is considered ancillary to medical, health and social care services. There is no restriction on close contact services relating to essential health needs, as defined in the regulations, such as; dental services, opticians, audiology services, chiropody, chiropractors, osteopaths, podiatry and other medical services, including services relating to mental health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010684%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316950"}},{"id":"316949","reference":"AQW 10683/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-20","answerBy":"2020-12-07","answered":"2020-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the 27 November 2020 restrictions relating to COVID-19 for (i) the construction industry; (ii) construction sites; (iii) building and maintenance work in domestic properties; and (iv) building supplies and supply chain businesses.","answerText":"Details of the latest version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, that came in to operation on 27 Nov 2020 can be found here:\n\nThe Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)","answerHtml":"Details of the latest version of The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, that came in to operation on 27 Nov 2020 can be found here:
The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020 | Department of Health (health-ni.gov.uk)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010683%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316949"}},{"id":"316666","reference":"AQW 10601/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the total new diagnoses of sexually transmitted infections in Northern Ireland, broken down by Trust area, for each of the previous five years.","answerText":"The information requested on the diagnoses of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Northern Ireland has been provided in tabulated form below. As requested, the information has been broken down by Health and Social Care Trust and for the time period 2015/6-2019/20.\n\nSexually Transmitted Infection Related1 Admissions2, 2015/16-2019/20\n\nHSC Trusts\t2015/16\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nBelfast\t57\t34\t29\t42\t58\nNorthern\t19\t19\t13\t28\t20\nSouth Eastern\t31\t28\t21\t24\t29\nSouthern\t25\t20\t21\t17\t19\nWestern\t24\t18\t11\t15\t14\nTotal\t156\t119\t95\t126\t140\n\nSource: Hospital Inpatient System, Hospital Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.\n\n1 The following ICD-10 codes were used to denote a diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infection in each of the 17 diagnostic fields:\n\nA50 Congenital syphilis\n\nA51 Early syphilis\n\nA52 Late syphilis\n\nA53 Other and unspecified syphilis\n\nA54 Gonococcal infection\n\nA55 Chlamydial lymphogranuloma (venereum)\n\nA56 Other sexually transmitted chlamydial diseases\n\nA57 Chancroid\n\nA58 Granuloma inguinal\n\nA59 Trichomoniasis\n\nA60 Anogenital herpesviral [herpes simplex] infections\n\nA63 Other predominantly sexually transmitted diseases, not elsewhere classified\n\nA64 Unspecified sexually transmitted disease\n\nA74 Other diseases caused by chlamydia\n\nB20 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in infectious and parasitic diseases\n\nB21 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in malignant neoplasms\n\nB22 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in other specified diseases\n\nB23 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in other conditions\n\nB24 Unspecified human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease\n\nB85.2 Pediculosis, unspecified\n\nB85.3 Phthiriasis\n\nB85.4 Mixed pediculosis and phthiriasis\n\nB86 Scabies\n\nO98.1 Syphilis complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium\n\nO98.2 Gonorrhoea complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium\n\nO98.3 Other infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium\n\nZ20.2 Contact with and exposure to infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission\n\nZ20.6 Contact with and exposure to human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]\n\nZ21 Asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection status\n\nZ22.4 Carrier of infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission\n\n2 Figures do not include admissions to mental health or learning disability programmes of care which account for less than 1% of all hospital admissions. Admissions are approximated through deaths and discharges. These figures do not denote individuals","answerHtml":"The information requested on the diagnoses of Sexually Transmitted Infections in Northern Ireland has been provided in tabulated form below. As requested, the information has been broken down by Health and Social Care Trust and for the time period 2015/6-2019/20.
| Sexually Transmitted Infection Related1 Admissions2, 2015/16-2019/20 | |||||
| HSC Trusts | 2015/16 | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 |
| Belfast | 57 | 34 | 29 | 42 | 58 |
| Northern | 19 | 19 | 13 | 28 | 20 |
| South Eastern | 31 | 28 | 21 | 24 | 29 |
| Southern | 25 | 20 | 21 | 17 | 19 |
| Western | 24 | 18 | 11 | 15 | 14 |
| Total | 156 | 119 | 95 | 126 | 140 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient System, Hospital Information Branch, Information & Analysis Directorate, Department of Health, NI.
1 The following ICD-10 codes were used to denote a diagnosis of Sexually Transmitted Infection in each of the 17 diagnostic fields:
A50 Congenital syphilis
A51 Early syphilis
A52 Late syphilis
A53 Other and unspecified syphilis
A54 Gonococcal infection
A55 Chlamydial lymphogranuloma (venereum)
A56 Other sexually transmitted chlamydial diseases
A57 Chancroid
A58 Granuloma inguinal
A59 Trichomoniasis
A60 Anogenital herpesviral [herpes simplex] infections
A63 Other predominantly sexually transmitted diseases, not elsewhere classified
A64 Unspecified sexually transmitted disease
A74 Other diseases caused by chlamydia
B20 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in infectious and parasitic diseases
B21 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in malignant neoplasms
B22 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in other specified diseases
B23 Human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease resulting in other conditions
B24 Unspecified human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] disease
B85.2 Pediculosis, unspecified
B85.3 Phthiriasis
B85.4 Mixed pediculosis and phthiriasis
B86 Scabies
O98.1 Syphilis complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
O98.2 Gonorrhoea complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
O98.3 Other infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission complicating pregnancy, childbirth and the puerperium
Z20.2 Contact with and exposure to infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission
Z20.6 Contact with and exposure to human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]
Z21 Asymptomatic human immunodeficiency virus [HIV] infection status
Z22.4 Carrier of infections with a predominantly sexual mode of transmission
2 Figures do not include admissions to mental health or learning disability programmes of care which account for less than 1% of all hospital admissions. Admissions are approximated through deaths and discharges. These figures do not denote individuals
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010601%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316666","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316666"}},{"id":"316664","reference":"AQW 10599/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) what plans he has for improving sex education in schools; (ii) how sex education in schools would be done; (iii) his assessment on the benefits of improving sex education in schools; and (iv) what discussions he has had with the Minister of Health to improve sex education in schools.","answerText":"The delivery of appropriate and informed teaching in Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a priority area of work for my Department. Over the last number of years my Department has provided earmarked funding to the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) to support the production of RSE resources and guidance materials. In June 2019 CCEA launched its online RSE Hub to facilitate access to these resources.\n\nThis year my Department provided additional funding to CCEA to enable further resources and guidance materials to be developed. This approach provides teachers with the appropriate resources and support to increase their competence and confidence in teaching this area of the curriculum. Providing quality teaching, supported by age appropriate information and guidance material for all children and young people will enable them to make informed decisions, and develop healthy and supportive relationships.\n\nThe statutory curriculum for Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU) at primary level and the Personal Development strand of Learning for Life and Work at post primary level, includes high level prescribed content for RSE at each Key Stage. This is a minimum entitlement that all children must legally receive. Schools and teachers have the flexibility to decide the topics and approaches that best suit the needs pupils and it is a matter for schools to decide which, if any, of these resources they use to inform the development and delivery of an RSE programme.\n\nI have not had any meetings with the Minister for Health on the content of the RSE curriculum; however, in developing resources for the RSE Hub, CCEA has actively engaged with a wide range of professionals, including colleagues in the Department of Health.","answerHtml":"The delivery of appropriate and informed teaching in Relationship and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a priority area of work for my Department. Over the last number of years my Department has provided earmarked funding to the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) to support the production of RSE resources and guidance materials. In June 2019 CCEA launched its online RSE Hub to facilitate access to these resources.
This year my Department provided additional funding to CCEA to enable further resources and guidance materials to be developed. This approach provides teachers with the appropriate resources and support to increase their competence and confidence in teaching this area of the curriculum. Providing quality teaching, supported by age appropriate information and guidance material for all children and young people will enable them to make informed decisions, and develop healthy and supportive relationships.
The statutory curriculum for Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (PDMU) at primary level and the Personal Development strand of Learning for Life and Work at post primary level, includes high level prescribed content for RSE at each Key Stage. This is a minimum entitlement that all children must legally receive. Schools and teachers have the flexibility to decide the topics and approaches that best suit the needs pupils and it is a matter for schools to decide which, if any, of these resources they use to inform the development and delivery of an RSE programme.
I have not had any meetings with the Minister for Health on the content of the RSE curriculum; however, in developing resources for the RSE Hub, CCEA has actively engaged with a wide range of professionals, including colleagues in the Department of Health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010599%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316664","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316664"}},{"id":"316663","reference":"AQW 10598/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number of reported incidences of serious sexual offences in Northern Ireland in each of the past five years; and (ii) her assessment of these in comparison with the statistics for England, Wales and Scotland.","answerText":"The recording of information on the number of reported incidents of serious sexual offences and associated statistics is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The recording of information on the number of reported incidents of serious sexual offences and associated statistics is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010598%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316663","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316663"}},{"id":"316662","reference":"AQW 10597/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-19","answerBy":"2020-12-04","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail (i) any discussions she has had with LGBT+ groups or organisation in relation to (a) a potential sexual health strategy for Northern Ireland; and (b) sex education in Northern Ireland’s schools; and (ii) any issues raised during these conversations.","answerText":"While it would not be appropriate for me to comment on policy matters that fall to the Minister of Health and the Minister of Education, I am leading on the development of the Executive’s Sexual Orientation Strategy under New Decade, New Approach. This Strategy will cut across Ministerial and Departmental remits and I have appointed an independent Expert Advisory Panel to make recommendations on the themes that the Strategy should address.\n\nIt is likely that the Panel will make recommendations relating to Health and Education; however, I am not in a position to make further comment on those recommendations until the Panel completes their work.","answerHtml":"While it would not be appropriate for me to comment on policy matters that fall to the Minister of Health and the Minister of Education, I am leading on the development of the Executive’s Sexual Orientation Strategy under New Decade, New Approach. This Strategy will cut across Ministerial and Departmental remits and I have appointed an independent Expert Advisory Panel to make recommendations on the themes that the Strategy should address.
It is likely that the Panel will make recommendations relating to Health and Education; however, I am not in a position to make further comment on those recommendations until the Panel completes their work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010597%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316662"}},{"id":"316503","reference":"AQW 10515/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-18","answerBy":"2020-12-03","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what action he has taken on foot of the Alzheimer’s Society’s report entitled Worst Hit: Dementia During Coronavirus.","answerText":"I was recently provided with a copy of this report and also the report entitled “The Fog of Support” by the Alzheimer’s Society.\n\nIt is important to learn from our experiences during the pandemic and to consider any new ways of working which have been developed. I have therefore forwarded both reports to the Chief Executives of all five Health and Social Care Trusts and have asked them to consider their contents with the view to improving our services going forward.","answerHtml":"I was recently provided with a copy of this report and also the report entitled “The Fog of Support” by the Alzheimer’s Society.
It is important to learn from our experiences during the pandemic and to consider any new ways of working which have been developed. I have therefore forwarded both reports to the Chief Executives of all five Health and Social Care Trusts and have asked them to consider their contents with the view to improving our services going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010515%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316503"}},{"id":"316502","reference":"AQW 10514/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-18","answerBy":"2020-12-03","answered":"2021-01-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what action he is considering to reinstate trees, woods and hedgerows that have been lost due to countryside planning developments such as roads and windfarms.","answerText":"The Department for Infrastructure has responsibility for the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 within which removal of trees for planned development or conditions attached to their removal are considered.\n\nMy Department provides grant aid for tree planting to create new woodland through the Forest Expansion Scheme which I have recently modified to further encourage more trees. In particular, I have reduced the minimum threshold for eligibility to the grant scheme which has seen a very positive response, approximately doubling the number of applications this year. Additionally, I launched a new Small Woodland Grant Scheme in December 2020 which is designed to complement existing holdings by providing support to plant native woodland. My department also operates an Environmental Farming Scheme which encourages planting trees and shrubs on farms through grant aid to support planting native trees in woodland, hedgerows, tree enhanced boundaries and riparian buffers.\n\nThese incentives for tree planting will contribute to the ‘Forests for Our Future’ programme, which aims to plant 18 million trees over the next decade; and is one of the foundation initiatives of the Executive’s Green Growth strategy being developed by my department.","answerHtml":"The Department for Infrastructure has responsibility for the Planning (Northern Ireland) Order 1991 within which removal of trees for planned development or conditions attached to their removal are considered.
My Department provides grant aid for tree planting to create new woodland through the Forest Expansion Scheme which I have recently modified to further encourage more trees. In particular, I have reduced the minimum threshold for eligibility to the grant scheme which has seen a very positive response, approximately doubling the number of applications this year. Additionally, I launched a new Small Woodland Grant Scheme in December 2020 which is designed to complement existing holdings by providing support to plant native woodland. My department also operates an Environmental Farming Scheme which encourages planting trees and shrubs on farms through grant aid to support planting native trees in woodland, hedgerows, tree enhanced boundaries and riparian buffers.
These incentives for tree planting will contribute to the ‘Forests for Our Future’ programme, which aims to plant 18 million trees over the next decade; and is one of the foundation initiatives of the Executive’s Green Growth strategy being developed by my department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010514%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316502"}},{"id":"316501","reference":"AQW 10513/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-18","answerBy":"2020-12-03","answered":"2020-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether all nursing and care home residents are considered vulnerable for both COVID-19 and seasonal flu; (ii) how many nursing and care home residents have not received a flu vaccination this year; and (iii) what this number is as a percentage of the total nursing home population.","answerText":"(i)All nursing and care home residents are considered vulnerable to seasonal flu and COVID-19 and are eligible for vaccination through the public seasonal flu vaccination programme. Nursing and care home residents are currently top of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) interim prioritisation list to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.\n\n(ii) This information is not available as the majority of nursing/care home residents are included within other categories including those aged 65 & over and those aged under 65 who are clinically at risk.\n\n(iii) Using the recently published Adult Social Care Statistics at the 30th June 2020, there were 11,808 placements in Care Homes - 8,191 in Nursing Homes and 3,617 in Residential Homes but as stated at (ii), it is not possible to advise on the number of those vaccinated","answerHtml":"(i)All nursing and care home residents are considered vulnerable to seasonal flu and COVID-19 and are eligible for vaccination through the public seasonal flu vaccination programme. Nursing and care home residents are currently top of the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) interim prioritisation list to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
(ii) This information is not available as the majority of nursing/care home residents are included within other categories including those aged 65 & over and those aged under 65 who are clinically at risk.
(iii) Using the recently published Adult Social Care Statistics at the 30th June 2020, there were 11,808 placements in Care Homes - 8,191 in Nursing Homes and 3,617 in Residential Homes but as stated at (ii), it is not possible to advise on the number of those vaccinated
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010513%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316501","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316501"}},{"id":"316500","reference":"AQW 10512/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-18","answerBy":"2020-12-03","answered":"2021-09-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how frequently Marie Curie palliative nurses, who are attending to palliative patients, are being tested for COVID-19.","answerText":"Hospice staff providing care in a hospice setting, and hospice staff who are community based providing palliative care in a person’s home, participate in weekly PCR-based asymptomatic testing. This programme of asymptomatic testing is voluntary but is strongly encouraged.","answerHtml":"Hospice staff providing care in a hospice setting, and hospice staff who are community based providing palliative care in a person’s home, participate in weekly PCR-based asymptomatic testing. This programme of asymptomatic testing is voluntary but is strongly encouraged.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010512%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316500"}},{"id":"316499","reference":"AQW 10511/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-18","answerBy":"2020-12-03","answered":"2020-12-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the progress of the development of a mental health strategy, as outlined in New Decade, New Approach; and when this is likely to be completed.","answerText":"I aim to start a public consultation on a draft strategy before the end of the year. The full Mental Health Strategy is on course for publication in July 2021\n\nKey developments to date:\n\nMental Health Strategic Reform Board established in September to provide governance and oversight of Strategy development.\n\nStrategic Advisory Panel established in September: expert stakeholders across sectors and organisations, including people with lived experience, brought together to develop policy advice to input to the Strategy.\n\nVirtual stakeholder engagement event held on 5th October 2020, with over 90 people attending.\n\nVirtual Reference Group established October 2020.\n\nCross-Departmental Working Group established October 2020.\n\nOngoing engagement with service users and carers through voluntary and community sector and Mental Health Champion.\n\nSecond Virtual stakeholder engagement event held 25th November 2020.","answerHtml":"I aim to start a public consultation on a draft strategy before the end of the year. The full Mental Health Strategy is on course for publication in July 2021
Key developments to date:
Mental Health Strategic Reform Board established in September to provide governance and oversight of Strategy development.
Strategic Advisory Panel established in September: expert stakeholders across sectors and organisations, including people with lived experience, brought together to develop policy advice to input to the Strategy.
Virtual stakeholder engagement event held on 5th October 2020, with over 90 people attending.
Virtual Reference Group established October 2020.
Cross-Departmental Working Group established October 2020.
Ongoing engagement with service users and carers through voluntary and community sector and Mental Health Champion.
Second Virtual stakeholder engagement event held 25th November 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010511%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316499","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316499"}},{"id":"316256","reference":"AQW 10407/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) any plans he has for pursuing stricter laws regarding the illegal poaching, shooting, hunting and poisoning of native birds of prey and migratory birds; and (ii) the numbers of successful prosecutions made for the above crimes in each constituency, broken down by year for the last five years.","answerText":"All wild bird species are afforded protection in Northern Ireland under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985. The PSNI has responsibility to investigate breaches of the Wildlife Order and work closely with DAERA officials with relevant scientific knowledge to gather information which assists prosecutions.\n\nIt is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird, including damaging their nests during the process of building or in occupation. Schedule 1, Part A of the Wildlife Order lists bird species that are protected all year round. The Schedule includes native birds of prey and migratory species. Schedule A1 of the Order also lists returning species and protects their nest year round.\n\nI am therefore content that there is currently robust legislative protection in place for raptors and migratory birds and I have no plans to introduce new legislative measures. However, I am content to keep this issue under review, and will take additional action if deemed appropriate.\n\nThe Department does not hold records on the level of PSNI enforcement action taken in relation to migratory bird incidents. However, I would draw your attention to the latest (2019) report from the Partnership for Action against Wildlife crime (PAWNI) on raptor persecution. This is a comprehensive report which can be accessed at:-\n\nhttps://80fb1992-4451-40d0-9d4a-ceb85ee8bb71.filesusr.com/ugd/259455_45a771f2750045d2940b099e8a8e58bf.pdf","answerHtml":"All wild bird species are afforded protection in Northern Ireland under the Wildlife (Northern Ireland) Order 1985. The PSNI has responsibility to investigate breaches of the Wildlife Order and work closely with DAERA officials with relevant scientific knowledge to gather information which assists prosecutions.
It is an offence to intentionally kill, injure or take any wild bird, including damaging their nests during the process of building or in occupation. Schedule 1, Part A of the Wildlife Order lists bird species that are protected all year round. The Schedule includes native birds of prey and migratory species. Schedule A1 of the Order also lists returning species and protects their nest year round.
I am therefore content that there is currently robust legislative protection in place for raptors and migratory birds and I have no plans to introduce new legislative measures. However, I am content to keep this issue under review, and will take additional action if deemed appropriate.
The Department does not hold records on the level of PSNI enforcement action taken in relation to migratory bird incidents. However, I would draw your attention to the latest (2019) report from the Partnership for Action against Wildlife crime (PAWNI) on raptor persecution. This is a comprehensive report which can be accessed at:-
https://80fb1992-4451-40d0-9d4a-ceb85ee8bb71.filesusr.com/ugd/259455_45a771f2750045d2940b099e8a8e58bf.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010407%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316256"}},{"id":"316255","reference":"AQW 10406/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) whether a commissioner's role has been considered for Irish and Ulster Scots language, culture and identity as part of New Decade, New Approach; (ii) what consultation has been made beyond that with the existing boards for Gaelic and Ulster Scots regarding language and culture; and (iii) whether there is a role for the Northern Ireland Office, Secretary of State and the Dublin Government for the Irish and Ulster Scots language, culture and identity as part of New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"The Executive Office (TEO) continues with preparatory work, to legislate for core elements of the Rights, Language and Identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.\n\nNew Decade New Approach (NDNA) provides a commitment to the development and delivery of an Irish Language Strategy and an Ulster-Scots Language, Heritage and Culture Strategy.\n\nThe principles and practice of citizen and community engagement and co-design will be a key part of the strategies’ development and delivery. A timetable for commencement will be published following Executive agreement.\n\nThe NDNA was jointly published by the Secretary of State and the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.\n\nThe commitments of each Government are noted in NDNA.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office (TEO) continues with preparatory work, to legislate for core elements of the Rights, Language and Identity proposals contained in New Decade, New Approach.
New Decade New Approach (NDNA) provides a commitment to the development and delivery of an Irish Language Strategy and an Ulster-Scots Language, Heritage and Culture Strategy.
The principles and practice of citizen and community engagement and co-design will be a key part of the strategies’ development and delivery. A timetable for commencement will be published following Executive agreement.
The NDNA was jointly published by the Secretary of State and the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The commitments of each Government are noted in NDNA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010406%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316255"}},{"id":"316254","reference":"AQW 10405/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the average length of stay in hospital of a person diagnosed with COVID-19 who required hospital treatment, per weekly admissions, since March 2020.","answerText":"Information on the average length of stay in hospital of patients with COVID-19 by admission week, from March 2020, is detailed in the table below. Please note, patients admitted to hospital for non-COVID-19 reasons but who subsequently test positive are included.\n\nAverage (Mean) Length of Stay in Hospital for Admissions with COVID-19 12\n\nWeek (Mon-Sun)\tNo of Covid Admissions\tAvg LOS (Days)\n02 Mar - 08 Mar\t5\t45.2\n09 Mar - 15 Mar\t15\t25.3\n16 Mar - 22 Mar\t46\t11.3\n23 Mar - 29 Mar\t181\t12.2\n30 Mar - 05 Apr\t276\t12.9\n06 Apr - 12 Apr\t206\t11.7\n13 Apr - 19 Apr\t157\t13.9\n20 Apr - 26 Apr\t159\t13.0\n27 Apr - 03 May\t113\t13.4\n04 May - 10 May\t92\t12.3\n11 May - 17 May\t89\t11.5\n18 May - 24 May\t47\t14.6\n25 May - 31 May\t41\t12.4\n01 Jun - 07 Jun\t18\t8.8\n08 Jun - 14 Jun\t22\t13.5\n15 Jun - 21 Jun\t9\t9.6\n22 Jun - 28 Jun\t11\t10.5\n29 Jun - 05 Jul\t6\t21.0\n06 Jul - 12 Jul\t6\t19.8\n13 Jul - 19 Jul\t6\t8.0\n20 Jul - 26 Jul\t6\t23.0\n27 Jul - 02 Aug\t11\t10.4\n03 Aug - 09 Aug\t17\t11.4\n10 Aug - 16 Aug\t13\t19.8\n17 Aug - 23 Aug\t31\t23.1\n24 Aug - 30 Aug\t21\t12.3\n31 Aug - 06 Sep\t19\t18.2\n07 Sep - 13 Sep\t33\t22.2\n14 Sep - 20 Sep\t26\t17.5\n21 Sep - 27 Sep\t64\t15.6\n28 Sep - 04 Oct\t100\t15.8\n05 Oct - 11 Oct\t187\t12.5\n12 Oct - 18 Oct\t269\t11.3\n19 Oct - 25 Oct\t295\t9.6\n26 Oct - 01 Nov\t276\t9.5\n\n1 Excludes admissions with a 0 day length of stay and current inpatients.\n\n2 Please note, figures relate to admissions and not individuals, as a person may be admitted more than once.","answerHtml":"Information on the average length of stay in hospital of patients with COVID-19 by admission week, from March 2020, is detailed in the table below. Please note, patients admitted to hospital for non-COVID-19 reasons but who subsequently test positive are included.
Average (Mean) Length of Stay in Hospital for Admissions with COVID-19 12
| Week (Mon-Sun) | No of Covid Admissions | Avg LOS (Days) |
| 02 Mar - 08 Mar | 5 | 45.2 |
| 09 Mar - 15 Mar | 15 | 25.3 |
| 16 Mar - 22 Mar | 46 | 11.3 |
| 23 Mar - 29 Mar | 181 | 12.2 |
| 30 Mar - 05 Apr | 276 | 12.9 |
| 06 Apr - 12 Apr | 206 | 11.7 |
| 13 Apr - 19 Apr | 157 | 13.9 |
| 20 Apr - 26 Apr | 159 | 13.0 |
| 27 Apr - 03 May | 113 | 13.4 |
| 04 May - 10 May | 92 | 12.3 |
| 11 May - 17 May | 89 | 11.5 |
| 18 May - 24 May | 47 | 14.6 |
| 25 May - 31 May | 41 | 12.4 |
| 01 Jun - 07 Jun | 18 | 8.8 |
| 08 Jun - 14 Jun | 22 | 13.5 |
| 15 Jun - 21 Jun | 9 | 9.6 |
| 22 Jun - 28 Jun | 11 | 10.5 |
| 29 Jun - 05 Jul | 6 | 21.0 |
| 06 Jul - 12 Jul | 6 | 19.8 |
| 13 Jul - 19 Jul | 6 | 8.0 |
| 20 Jul - 26 Jul | 6 | 23.0 |
| 27 Jul - 02 Aug | 11 | 10.4 |
| 03 Aug - 09 Aug | 17 | 11.4 |
| 10 Aug - 16 Aug | 13 | 19.8 |
| 17 Aug - 23 Aug | 31 | 23.1 |
| 24 Aug - 30 Aug | 21 | 12.3 |
| 31 Aug - 06 Sep | 19 | 18.2 |
| 07 Sep - 13 Sep | 33 | 22.2 |
| 14 Sep - 20 Sep | 26 | 17.5 |
| 21 Sep - 27 Sep | 64 | 15.6 |
| 28 Sep - 04 Oct | 100 | 15.8 |
| 05 Oct - 11 Oct | 187 | 12.5 |
| 12 Oct - 18 Oct | 269 | 11.3 |
| 19 Oct - 25 Oct | 295 | 9.6 |
| 26 Oct - 01 Nov | 276 | 9.5 |
1 Excludes admissions with a 0 day length of stay and current inpatients.
2 Please note, figures relate to admissions and not individuals, as a person may be admitted more than once.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010405%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316254","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316254"}},{"id":"316253","reference":"AQW 10404/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what COVID-19 treatment-related improvements have been made to hospital intensive care units since March 2020, in terms of procedure, staffing and medical equipment procurement and provision.","answerText":"The Critical Care Network NI (CCANNI) has worked collaboratively with HSC Trusts to identify the necessary resources to meet the increased demand for critical care services as a result of COVID-19. This has included estimating and procuring the necessary infrastructure, staffing and equipment and was achieved through the development of COVID-19 specific Surge Plans.\n\nA number of procedures have been introduced to help manage the increase in ICU patients, including the sharing of regional situation reports and the development of a regional dashboard to help collate and share regional data to provide oversight and help manage pressures.\n\nA total of over £9 million has been invested in equipment, with allocation and commissioning into receiving Trusts enabling immediate use to respond to additional demand that has presented, for both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 critical care patients.\n\nSignificant redeployment and training of staff from across HSC has been undertaken to ensure the requirements of those most in need of critical care are met; however, the availability of staff has been one for the biggest challenges for HSC and has had a significant impact on other services.","answerHtml":"The Critical Care Network NI (CCANNI) has worked collaboratively with HSC Trusts to identify the necessary resources to meet the increased demand for critical care services as a result of COVID-19. This has included estimating and procuring the necessary infrastructure, staffing and equipment and was achieved through the development of COVID-19 specific Surge Plans.
A number of procedures have been introduced to help manage the increase in ICU patients, including the sharing of regional situation reports and the development of a regional dashboard to help collate and share regional data to provide oversight and help manage pressures.
A total of over £9 million has been invested in equipment, with allocation and commissioning into receiving Trusts enabling immediate use to respond to additional demand that has presented, for both COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 critical care patients.
Significant redeployment and training of staff from across HSC has been undertaken to ensure the requirements of those most in need of critical care are met; however, the availability of staff has been one for the biggest challenges for HSC and has had a significant impact on other services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010404%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316253","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316253"}},{"id":"316252","reference":"AQW 10403/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-17","answerBy":"2020-12-02","answered":"2020-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, pursuant to AQW 6571/17-22, for an update on (i) issues that exist within further education colleges regarding capacity and social distancing; (ii) any new delivery models introduced to assist remote learning; and (iii) what steps have been taken to address capacity issues regarding schools’ partnership programmes with colleges.","answerText":"(i) In compliance with the Framework for Safe Resumption of On-Site Education and Related Activity (Framework Document), which was developed by the Advisory and Oversight Group (AOG) established by the Department, the FE colleges are maximising the number of learners as it is safe to facilitate on-site and delivering virtual learning when social distancing requirements restricts capacity. Current delivery models include a blend of both face-to-face and virtual learning, with the colleges balancing the delivery to take account of the level of the provision, needs of the course and the maturity of the learner. Since 16 October 2020, the NI Executive has introduced a number of additional, time bound Covid-19 related restrictions which require FE colleges to adjust\n\ntheir delivery models to ensure that they are delivering distance learning to the maximum extent possible, with face-to-face learning taking place when it is a necessary and unavoidable part of the course. These restrictions ended at midnight on 19th November 2020, but will be introduced again at midnight on 26th November 2020 for a further two weeks. When these time bound restrictions end, assuming no further restrictions are introduced, FE colleges will make plans to return to face-to-face onsite delivery for as many learners as it is safe to do so in accordance with the Framework Document.\n\n(ii) A working group has been set up to develop a sector-wide approach to the development and delivery of on-line learning across colleges. This enables the sharing of knowledge and skills between colleges and the adoption, where possible, of standard communication tools such as MS Teams which facilitates the sharing of standard e-learning packages for staff and learners between colleges.\n\n(iii) Department for the Economy officials have met with colleagues from the Department of Education over the last number of months in order to develop a shared understanding of the needs of schools and the pressures and implications for Further Education colleges, and to seek a resolution to these. As a result of these discussions, local solutions between colleges and schools at an individual level have been identified, implemented in many cases, and appear to be working well.","answerHtml":"(i) In compliance with the Framework for Safe Resumption of On-Site Education and Related Activity (Framework Document), which was developed by the Advisory and Oversight Group (AOG) established by the Department, the FE colleges are maximising the number of learners as it is safe to facilitate on-site and delivering virtual learning when social distancing requirements restricts capacity. Current delivery models include a blend of both face-to-face and virtual learning, with the colleges balancing the delivery to take account of the level of the provision, needs of the course and the maturity of the learner. Since 16 October 2020, the NI Executive has introduced a number of additional, time bound Covid-19 related restrictions which require FE colleges to adjust
their delivery models to ensure that they are delivering distance learning to the maximum extent possible, with face-to-face learning taking place when it is a necessary and unavoidable part of the course. These restrictions ended at midnight on 19th November 2020, but will be introduced again at midnight on 26th November 2020 for a further two weeks. When these time bound restrictions end, assuming no further restrictions are introduced, FE colleges will make plans to return to face-to-face onsite delivery for as many learners as it is safe to do so in accordance with the Framework Document.
(ii) A working group has been set up to develop a sector-wide approach to the development and delivery of on-line learning across colleges. This enables the sharing of knowledge and skills between colleges and the adoption, where possible, of standard communication tools such as MS Teams which facilitates the sharing of standard e-learning packages for staff and learners between colleges.
(iii) Department for the Economy officials have met with colleagues from the Department of Education over the last number of months in order to develop a shared understanding of the needs of schools and the pressures and implications for Further Education colleges, and to seek a resolution to these. As a result of these discussions, local solutions between colleges and schools at an individual level have been identified, implemented in many cases, and appear to be working well.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010403%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316252","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316252"}},{"id":"316086","reference":"AQW 10296/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail and explain the difference in the size of maintenance grants given to Northern Irish students studying in Great Britain compared to students from Great Britain also studying in Great Britain.","answerText":"My Department provides a means tested, non-repayable maintenance grant to eligible Northern Ireland domiciled students through Student Finance NI up to the value of £3,475 for the 2020/21 academic year.\n\nEngland provide a means tested, non-repayable maintenance grant of up to £3,489 for students whose courses commenced before 1 August 2016. No maintenance grant is provided for students whose courses commenced after this date.\n\nWales provide the Welsh Government Learning Grant, a means tested, non-repayable grant providing up to £10,124 for the 2020/21 academic year.\n\nScotland do not provide a specific maintenance grant product, but do provide a means tested, non-repayable bursary of up to £2,000 to eligible students.\n\nThe difference between the availability and level of maintenance grants for students across the UK is a direct result of the devolved nature of higher education, which allows the regions to develop their own student support products in response to the needs of their students, their Higher Education sector, and the budget available to them.","answerHtml":"My Department provides a means tested, non-repayable maintenance grant to eligible Northern Ireland domiciled students through Student Finance NI up to the value of £3,475 for the 2020/21 academic year.
England provide a means tested, non-repayable maintenance grant of up to £3,489 for students whose courses commenced before 1 August 2016. No maintenance grant is provided for students whose courses commenced after this date.
Wales provide the Welsh Government Learning Grant, a means tested, non-repayable grant providing up to £10,124 for the 2020/21 academic year.
Scotland do not provide a specific maintenance grant product, but do provide a means tested, non-repayable bursary of up to £2,000 to eligible students.
The difference between the availability and level of maintenance grants for students across the UK is a direct result of the devolved nature of higher education, which allows the regions to develop their own student support products in response to the needs of their students, their Higher Education sector, and the budget available to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010296%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316086","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316086"}},{"id":"316085","reference":"AQW 10295/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2021-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how many businesses that were (i) eligible; and (ii) ineligible for COVID-19 grants and funding, and failed to receive it, have since closed down.","answerText":"The Department for the Economy (DfE) would not hold such information.\n\nHowever, to date, DfE has provided over £370 million of lifeline support to over 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of pounds to thousands more. These businesses cover all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Department for the Economy (DfE) would not hold such information.
However, to date, DfE has provided over £370 million of lifeline support to over 30,000 businesses and individuals, and is currently delivering millions of pounds to thousands more. These businesses cover all sectors and occupations throughout Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010295%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316085","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316085"}},{"id":"316084","reference":"AQW 10294/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the reason for the £22.2 million underspend relating to the Annually Managed Expenditure for the Renewable Heat Initiative; and (ii) how farmers are being supported in place of these subsidies.","answerText":"i) In early 2015 the projections of the cost of the NI RHI Scheme rose above the available budget for 2015/16 and future years. The Department has taken a number of actions since then, including suspension of the Scheme to new applicants in 2016, extension of the tiered tariff structure and annual usage limit to all small and medium biomass installations in 2017 and a revision of small and medium biomass tariffs in 2019. I acknowledge that at present not all of the budget made available from HM Treasury to fund RHI tariffs is being drawn down however, we cannot simply adopt a tariff that maximises use of the available budget. This was an attitude and approach that was rightly criticised by the Public Inquiry. As Minister I have a responsibility to all taxpayers.\n\nii) The RHI Scheme is not a farmer subsidy scheme, it is an incentive scheme designed to increase the proportion of heat generated from renewable sources by payment of a tariff. It was open to applications from all business and domestic sectors.","answerHtml":"i) In early 2015 the projections of the cost of the NI RHI Scheme rose above the available budget for 2015/16 and future years. The Department has taken a number of actions since then, including suspension of the Scheme to new applicants in 2016, extension of the tiered tariff structure and annual usage limit to all small and medium biomass installations in 2017 and a revision of small and medium biomass tariffs in 2019. I acknowledge that at present not all of the budget made available from HM Treasury to fund RHI tariffs is being drawn down however, we cannot simply adopt a tariff that maximises use of the available budget. This was an attitude and approach that was rightly criticised by the Public Inquiry. As Minister I have a responsibility to all taxpayers.
ii) The RHI Scheme is not a farmer subsidy scheme, it is an incentive scheme designed to increase the proportion of heat generated from renewable sources by payment of a tariff. It was open to applications from all business and domestic sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010294%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316084"}},{"id":"316083","reference":"AQW 10293/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) who is responsible for assessing the effectiveness of COVID-19 mitigation strategies in schools; (ii) how the effectiveness of these measures is assessed; and (iii) his level of confidence of the rule compliance and mitigation strategies in force in schools.","answerText":"The Department’s approach to planning for the re-opening of schools has been focussed on restricting opportunities for the virus to enter a school and limiting the risk of transmission.\n\nTo make sure that schools remain safe for our children, young people and staff, a number of risk mitigations have been put in place.\n\nPrincipals and school staff have been working tirelessly implementing these measures to keep schools safe for pupils and, their efforts have ensured the level of transmission in schools remains low.\n\nIn regards to assessing the effectiveness of mitigations Education Inspectorate Team (ETI) have been working with the Minister and Department of Education, and has remained committed to supporting school staff, parents and pupils offering bespoke advice, guidance and assistance. This has allowed ETI to identify challenges and many examples of creative practice associated with remote learning during school closure.\n\nThe PHA is publishing weekly and monthly bulletins on the COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Ireland. This information includes information in relation to schools. The latest PHA stats indicate that up to the end of week 46 (ending 15 November 2020) 1,656 confirmed COVID-19 cases in pupils had been reported by schools to the PHA School Team. This equates to 0.48% of school aged children in Northern Ireland which would confirm the risk mitigations are working and school remains a safe place.\n\nEach school has a dedicated link officer who work closely with schools to provide guidance on best practice.\n\nI hope this provides you with the information you require.","answerHtml":"The Department’s approach to planning for the re-opening of schools has been focussed on restricting opportunities for the virus to enter a school and limiting the risk of transmission.
To make sure that schools remain safe for our children, young people and staff, a number of risk mitigations have been put in place.
Principals and school staff have been working tirelessly implementing these measures to keep schools safe for pupils and, their efforts have ensured the level of transmission in schools remains low.
In regards to assessing the effectiveness of mitigations Education Inspectorate Team (ETI) have been working with the Minister and Department of Education, and has remained committed to supporting school staff, parents and pupils offering bespoke advice, guidance and assistance. This has allowed ETI to identify challenges and many examples of creative practice associated with remote learning during school closure.
The PHA is publishing weekly and monthly bulletins on the COVID-19 pandemic in Northern Ireland. This information includes information in relation to schools. The latest PHA stats indicate that up to the end of week 46 (ending 15 November 2020) 1,656 confirmed COVID-19 cases in pupils had been reported by schools to the PHA School Team. This equates to 0.48% of school aged children in Northern Ireland which would confirm the risk mitigations are working and school remains a safe place.
Each school has a dedicated link officer who work closely with schools to provide guidance on best practice.
I hope this provides you with the information you require.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010293%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316083"}},{"id":"316082","reference":"AQW 10292/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-16","answerBy":"2020-12-01","answered":"2020-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans or discussions he has had to open a dedicated COVID-19 Nightingale Hospital outside Belfast.","answerText":"Following the first wave of COVID-19, I established a project board to explore the need for and location of a further Nightingale Hospital. As part of this work, the project board identified five potential sites, two of which were shortlisted for more detailed exploration – the Whiteabbey Hospital site and a commercial site outside Belfast.\n\nOf the two options, I determined the Whiteabbey site was the most suitable based upon location, accessibility, stability and cost. In addition, while not a determining criterion, using a site already in the ownership of HSC, rather than repurposing a commercial site, will provide a legacy facility when COVID-19 has passed.\n\nThere are currently no plans to open any further Nightingale facilities; however, this will be kept under review based upon transmission rates and demand.","answerHtml":"Following the first wave of COVID-19, I established a project board to explore the need for and location of a further Nightingale Hospital. As part of this work, the project board identified five potential sites, two of which were shortlisted for more detailed exploration – the Whiteabbey Hospital site and a commercial site outside Belfast.
Of the two options, I determined the Whiteabbey site was the most suitable based upon location, accessibility, stability and cost. In addition, while not a determining criterion, using a site already in the ownership of HSC, rather than repurposing a commercial site, will provide a legacy facility when COVID-19 has passed.
There are currently no plans to open any further Nightingale facilities; however, this will be kept under review based upon transmission rates and demand.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010292%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=316082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=316082"}},{"id":"315720","reference":"AQW 10155/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, in relation to the proposed tender from her Department for a domestic and sexual violence advocacy service, to detail her concerns regarding the opposition from stakeholder groups in relation to the All Population Role for this proposed service.","answerText":"I am aware of the extensive consultation, over a prolonged period of engagement, with key voluntary sector partners on the development of an advocacy service. I am grateful for their valuable contribution to this important initiative to date.\n\nI remain of the view that provision of a singular service presents the best way forward in delivering effective advocacy support to victims across Northern Ireland and within the funding that may be available.\n\nProviding support for victims, regardless of their gender, age or where they live in Northern Ireland remains at the centre of what we are seeking to achieve with introduction of this new service.\n\nThe singular service approach was chosen because of the intrinsic link between both domestic and sexual violence and abuse and also because of the commonality in the specifics of the advocacy role proposed for the new service across both victim areas.\n\nThe role of the advocate was developed following extensive scoping in terms of both local provision, as well as that available in neighbouring jurisdictions. A singular service approach presents the most effective use of resources locally to meet the needs of victims, ensuring consistency in approach and transferability of skill set by the advocates. It will also help ensure that support can be more readily targeted according to the level of need identified, where advocates skilled in both disciplines will be able to cover a more extensive remit and more effectively.\n\nAny tender documentation issued will be clear on the need to provide safe and effective services to address all of the needs outlined within a singular service. Whilst our initial intent had been that this service could be delivered via a consortium to reflect the variety of specialisms across the sector, I understand that two key local voluntary sector organisations could not reach agreement on who would lead in such a consortium and in the absence of agreement, our procurement advice is to proceed to tender.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the extensive consultation, over a prolonged period of engagement, with key voluntary sector partners on the development of an advocacy service. I am grateful for their valuable contribution to this important initiative to date.
I remain of the view that provision of a singular service presents the best way forward in delivering effective advocacy support to victims across Northern Ireland and within the funding that may be available.
Providing support for victims, regardless of their gender, age or where they live in Northern Ireland remains at the centre of what we are seeking to achieve with introduction of this new service.
The singular service approach was chosen because of the intrinsic link between both domestic and sexual violence and abuse and also because of the commonality in the specifics of the advocacy role proposed for the new service across both victim areas.
The role of the advocate was developed following extensive scoping in terms of both local provision, as well as that available in neighbouring jurisdictions. A singular service approach presents the most effective use of resources locally to meet the needs of victims, ensuring consistency in approach and transferability of skill set by the advocates. It will also help ensure that support can be more readily targeted according to the level of need identified, where advocates skilled in both disciplines will be able to cover a more extensive remit and more effectively.
Any tender documentation issued will be clear on the need to provide safe and effective services to address all of the needs outlined within a singular service. Whilst our initial intent had been that this service could be delivered via a consortium to reflect the variety of specialisms across the sector, I understand that two key local voluntary sector organisations could not reach agreement on who would lead in such a consortium and in the absence of agreement, our procurement advice is to proceed to tender.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010155%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315720"}},{"id":"315719","reference":"AQW 10154/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, in light of the Stakeholder Assurance Group Minutes of 17 August 2020, to detail any concerns she has proceeding with the domestic and sexual violence advocacy service proposal.","answerText":"I believe the new advocacy service will help plug gaps in existing service and will provide a consistent level of support to victims of domestic and sexual violence and abuse across Northern Ireland.\n\nI am conscious of the significant benefits such a service will bring, not least in keeping victims safe but also in championing their interests.\n\nIt is my intent that its introduction will also go some way to enhancing the experience of those engaging directly with justice partners, empowering them to seek justice. In time, and depending on the availability of funding from strategic partners, any contract will provide scope to extend the breadth of the new service to support a wider pool of victims.\n\nMy officials, in conjunction with partners, will closely monitor the new service once introduced to ensure its effective delivery and that objectives set are being achieved.","answerHtml":"I believe the new advocacy service will help plug gaps in existing service and will provide a consistent level of support to victims of domestic and sexual violence and abuse across Northern Ireland.
I am conscious of the significant benefits such a service will bring, not least in keeping victims safe but also in championing their interests.
It is my intent that its introduction will also go some way to enhancing the experience of those engaging directly with justice partners, empowering them to seek justice. In time, and depending on the availability of funding from strategic partners, any contract will provide scope to extend the breadth of the new service to support a wider pool of victims.
My officials, in conjunction with partners, will closely monitor the new service once introduced to ensure its effective delivery and that objectives set are being achieved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010154%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315719"}},{"id":"315718","reference":"AQW 10153/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail her position on the domestic and sexual violence advocacy service proposals, in relation to her Department’s response in the Stakeholder Assurance Group minutes of 17 August 2020.","answerText":"The approach of my officials reflects the position I have agreed as Minister following consideration of the scoping exercise and options available. The intention of the new service is to provide the best possible level of support for victims across Northern Ireland within the resources that may be available. The model developed was fully informed by comprehensive research to determine the current level of service in place across Northern Ireland as well as within neighbouring jurisdictions. This research identified gaps in a number of areas which could not be ignored and which will be addressed via the introduction of a singular advocacy service for all victims of domestic and sexual violence and abuse, regardless of age or gender, who are engaged within the criminal justice system.\n\nThe advocacy service proposals were consulted upon extensively, and over a prolonged period of time, with statutory and voluntary sector partners. I consider that as domestic and sexual violence can be intrinsically linked, with commonality in terms of need, providing a singular service will, amongst other things, help ensure that a high quality consist service can be applied in support of both important areas and that the service can be made available regardless of a person’s age, gender or where they live in Northern Ireland","answerHtml":"The approach of my officials reflects the position I have agreed as Minister following consideration of the scoping exercise and options available. The intention of the new service is to provide the best possible level of support for victims across Northern Ireland within the resources that may be available. The model developed was fully informed by comprehensive research to determine the current level of service in place across Northern Ireland as well as within neighbouring jurisdictions. This research identified gaps in a number of areas which could not be ignored and which will be addressed via the introduction of a singular advocacy service for all victims of domestic and sexual violence and abuse, regardless of age or gender, who are engaged within the criminal justice system.
The advocacy service proposals were consulted upon extensively, and over a prolonged period of time, with statutory and voluntary sector partners. I consider that as domestic and sexual violence can be intrinsically linked, with commonality in terms of need, providing a singular service will, amongst other things, help ensure that a high quality consist service can be applied in support of both important areas and that the service can be made available regardless of a person’s age, gender or where they live in Northern Ireland
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010153%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315718"}},{"id":"315717","reference":"AQW 10152/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the conversations she has had, or plans to have, with victims relating to the proposed domestic and sexual violence advocacy service.","answerText":"My Department did not engage with victims of domestic and/or sexual violence and abuse directly in the development of the new advocacy service. Rather, and from the outset, my officials engaged significantly with a range of key voluntary sector organisations representing the interests of victims. This took placed over a prolonged period of time, to help inform policy development. This involved the establishment of a dedicated working group comprising Men’s Advisory Project, Nexus, National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Victim Support Northern Ireland and Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland. Extensive consultation was carried with this group on all aspects of the proposed model, tailored for the Northern Ireland context. Collective meetings of the working group, as well as individual meetings with its members, were held as well as a dedicated workshop to help shape the advocacy role.\n\nMy Department also consulted with existing support service workers currently employed by both Women’s Aid NI (the Criminal Justice Support Worker and the Domestic Abuse Support Worker)) and Victim Support NI (the Independent Sexual Violence Advisor).","answerHtml":"My Department did not engage with victims of domestic and/or sexual violence and abuse directly in the development of the new advocacy service. Rather, and from the outset, my officials engaged significantly with a range of key voluntary sector organisations representing the interests of victims. This took placed over a prolonged period of time, to help inform policy development. This involved the establishment of a dedicated working group comprising Men’s Advisory Project, Nexus, National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children, Victim Support Northern Ireland and Women’s Aid Federation Northern Ireland. Extensive consultation was carried with this group on all aspects of the proposed model, tailored for the Northern Ireland context. Collective meetings of the working group, as well as individual meetings with its members, were held as well as a dedicated workshop to help shape the advocacy role.
My Department also consulted with existing support service workers currently employed by both Women’s Aid NI (the Criminal Justice Support Worker and the Domestic Abuse Support Worker)) and Victim Support NI (the Independent Sexual Violence Advisor).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010152%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315717"}},{"id":"315716","reference":"AQW 10151/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-12","answerBy":"2020-11-27","answered":"2020-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the equality screening process applied to the tender for the proposed domestic and sexual violence advocacy service.","answerText":"My Department carried out an equality screening exercise on the advocacy service policy which underpins and is reflected in the tender documentation.\n\nThis screening exercise has concluded that an Equality Impact Assessment is not necessary on the basis of positive impacts that will apply as a consequence of the service’s introduction. The proposed new service is intended to strengthen and increase the existing help and support that is available to victims, regardless of their grouping under Section 75.","answerHtml":"My Department carried out an equality screening exercise on the advocacy service policy which underpins and is reflected in the tender documentation.
This screening exercise has concluded that an Equality Impact Assessment is not necessary on the basis of positive impacts that will apply as a consequence of the service’s introduction. The proposed new service is intended to strengthen and increase the existing help and support that is available to victims, regardless of their grouping under Section 75.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010151%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315716"}},{"id":"315597","reference":"AQW 10079/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-11","answerBy":"2020-11-26","answered":"2020-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of reported incidences of anti-social behaviour (i) since the beginning of lockdown in March 2020; and (ii) for the same period in each of the past two years.","answerText":"The recording of information on the number of reported incidents of anti-social behaviour and associated statistics is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The recording of information on the number of reported incidents of anti-social behaviour and associated statistics is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010079%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315597","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315597"}},{"id":"315596","reference":"AQW 10078/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-11","answerBy":"2020-11-26","answered":"2020-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the current operating capacity of MOT centres across Northern Ireland; (ii) the number of MOT staff that are currently trained as driving examiners; and (iii) what discussions she has had with the Driver and Vehicle Agency regarding the potential for using those MOT staff who are qualified as driving instructors to be used in that capacity to relieve the backlog of driving test applications.","answerText":"From 20 July, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) resumed MOT testing, at all test centres, for priority vehicle groups, including those vehicles that are not able to avail of a Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC). This includes taxis and buses due a first time test, vehicles not previously registered in Northern Ireland, vehicles whose MOTs have expired by more than 12 months that includes vehicles previously declared SORN and those sold by car dealerships. By this time, all MOT test centre staff were back at work.\n\nFrom 1 September, MOT testing for four year old cars and motorbikes and three year old light goods vehicles also resumed and for those vehicles in this category that currently have a 6 month TEC, they will be called for test when their TEC expires. In addition, the DVA recommenced testing of heavy goods vehicles, trailers and buses.\n\nDue to the adaptions made to vehicle testing processes, to ensure the necessary and proportionate control measures are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, whilst all MOT staff are working in test centres, the current capacity for vehicle testing is approximately 30% in comparison with levels prior to the pandemic and the lift issues. The DVA is currently working on proposals to increase its vehicle testing capacity in the coming months.\n\nDriving instructors were included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that closed from 16 October until 20 November to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision, driving tests also ceased over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. Driving tests resumed on 21 November but will cease again for 2 weeks from 27 November to 10 December 2020 due to the circuit breaker restrictions announced by the Executive. Motorcycle lessons and tests are not affected by these restrictions.\n\nThe DVA has opened up the booking system exclusively for those customers whose tests were cancelled between 17 October and 20 November. Testing slots have been released for February and additional booking slots have also been made available in December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. The DVA is working on proposals to reopen the booking service for the customers impacted by the 2 week circuit breaker restrictions and in due course will issue further communications to customers through nidirect and social media channels.\n\nThe DVA currently has 37 driving examiners and 40 dual role examiners who conduct both vehicle and driving tests. The DVA plans to use the dual role examiners to help meet the demand for driving tests over the coming months.\n\nWhen testing resumes the DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and following consultation with key stakeholders is planning to offer driving tests for Heavy Goods Vehicles on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. The DVA will also use overtime to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide additional capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.\n\nTo help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving as a result of the latest Covid restrictions, I will be bringing forward further legislation to extend the validity of theory test pass certificates. Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months and will expire from 1 November 2020 onwards, will have their validity period extended by a further four months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months.\n\nThe DVA acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and will continue to work hard to maximise the availability of test slots. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times. Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.\n\nIt is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.","answerHtml":"From 20 July, the Driver and Vehicle Agency (DVA) resumed MOT testing, at all test centres, for priority vehicle groups, including those vehicles that are not able to avail of a Temporary Exemption Certificate (TEC). This includes taxis and buses due a first time test, vehicles not previously registered in Northern Ireland, vehicles whose MOTs have expired by more than 12 months that includes vehicles previously declared SORN and those sold by car dealerships. By this time, all MOT test centre staff were back at work.
From 1 September, MOT testing for four year old cars and motorbikes and three year old light goods vehicles also resumed and for those vehicles in this category that currently have a 6 month TEC, they will be called for test when their TEC expires. In addition, the DVA recommenced testing of heavy goods vehicles, trailers and buses.
Due to the adaptions made to vehicle testing processes, to ensure the necessary and proportionate control measures are in place to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, whilst all MOT staff are working in test centres, the current capacity for vehicle testing is approximately 30% in comparison with levels prior to the pandemic and the lift issues. The DVA is currently working on proposals to increase its vehicle testing capacity in the coming months.
Driving instructors were included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that closed from 16 October until 20 November to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision, driving tests also ceased over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. Driving tests resumed on 21 November but will cease again for 2 weeks from 27 November to 10 December 2020 due to the circuit breaker restrictions announced by the Executive. Motorcycle lessons and tests are not affected by these restrictions.
The DVA has opened up the booking system exclusively for those customers whose tests were cancelled between 17 October and 20 November. Testing slots have been released for February and additional booking slots have also been made available in December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. The DVA is working on proposals to reopen the booking service for the customers impacted by the 2 week circuit breaker restrictions and in due course will issue further communications to customers through nidirect and social media channels.
The DVA currently has 37 driving examiners and 40 dual role examiners who conduct both vehicle and driving tests. The DVA plans to use the dual role examiners to help meet the demand for driving tests over the coming months.
When testing resumes the DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and following consultation with key stakeholders is planning to offer driving tests for Heavy Goods Vehicles on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. The DVA will also use overtime to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide additional capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.
To help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving as a result of the latest Covid restrictions, I will be bringing forward further legislation to extend the validity of theory test pass certificates. Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months and will expire from 1 November 2020 onwards, will have their validity period extended by a further four months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months.
The DVA acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and will continue to work hard to maximise the availability of test slots. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times. Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
It is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010078%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315596","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315596"}},{"id":"315595","reference":"AQW 10077/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-11","answerBy":"2020-11-26","answered":"2020-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what discussions she has had as to whether those pupils who fail their driving test will be able to retake their test sooner than others who are applying for the first time.","answerText":"Driving instructors were included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that closed from 16 October until 20 November to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision, driving tests also ceased over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. Driving tests resumed on 21 November but will cease again for 2 weeks from 27 November to 10 December 2020 due to the circuit breaker restrictions announced by the Executive. Motorcycle lessons and tests are not affected by these restrictions.\n\nThe DVA has opened up the booking system exclusively for those customers whose tests were cancelled between 17 October and 20 November. Testing slots have been released for February and additional booking slots have also been made available in December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. The DVA is working on proposals to reopen the booking service for the customers impacted by the 2 week circuit breaker restrictions and in due course will issue further communications to customers through nidirect and social media channels.\n\nTo ensure the process for booking driving tests is managed fairly, the DVA does not intend to prioritise retests for candidates who fail their test over those who have not yet had the opportunity to take their test. The DVA will, however, continue to work hard to increase its testing capacity for all candidates.\n\nWhen testing resumes the DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and following consultation with key stakeholders is planning to offer driving tests for Heavy Goods Vehicles on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. The DVA will also use overtime to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide additional capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.\n\nTo help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving as a result of the latest Covid restrictions, I will be bringing forward further legislation to extend the validity of theory test pass certificates. Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months and will expire from 1 November 2020 onwards, will have their validity period extended by a further four months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months.\n\nThe DVA acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and will continue to work hard to maximise the availability of test slots. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times. Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.\n\nIt is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.","answerHtml":"Driving instructors were included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that closed from 16 October until 20 November to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision, driving tests also ceased over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. Driving tests resumed on 21 November but will cease again for 2 weeks from 27 November to 10 December 2020 due to the circuit breaker restrictions announced by the Executive. Motorcycle lessons and tests are not affected by these restrictions.
The DVA has opened up the booking system exclusively for those customers whose tests were cancelled between 17 October and 20 November. Testing slots have been released for February and additional booking slots have also been made available in December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. The DVA is working on proposals to reopen the booking service for the customers impacted by the 2 week circuit breaker restrictions and in due course will issue further communications to customers through nidirect and social media channels.
To ensure the process for booking driving tests is managed fairly, the DVA does not intend to prioritise retests for candidates who fail their test over those who have not yet had the opportunity to take their test. The DVA will, however, continue to work hard to increase its testing capacity for all candidates.
When testing resumes the DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and following consultation with key stakeholders is planning to offer driving tests for Heavy Goods Vehicles on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. The DVA will also use overtime to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide additional capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.
To help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving as a result of the latest Covid restrictions, I will be bringing forward further legislation to extend the validity of theory test pass certificates. Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months and will expire from 1 November 2020 onwards, will have their validity period extended by a further four months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months.
The DVA acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and will continue to work hard to maximise the availability of test slots. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times. Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
It is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010077%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315595"}},{"id":"315594","reference":"AQW 10076/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-11","answerBy":"2020-11-26","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the average absence figures for primary and post-primary schools since school restarted in August; and (ii) the comparable figures for the same time period for each of the past two years.","answerText":"Absence is reported by schools in half day sessions. The average absence figures since schools restarted in August 2020 are 5.2% for primary and 7.7% for post primary schools. For the same period in 2019, the proportion of total possible attendance recorded as absent was 3.6% for primary schools and 5.3% for post primary schools. Data for the same period in 2018 is not available as the equivalent reports were not available then.","answerHtml":"Absence is reported by schools in half day sessions. The average absence figures since schools restarted in August 2020 are 5.2% for primary and 7.7% for post primary schools. For the same period in 2019, the proportion of total possible attendance recorded as absent was 3.6% for primary schools and 5.3% for post primary schools. Data for the same period in 2018 is not available as the equivalent reports were not available then.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010076%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315594"}},{"id":"315593","reference":"AQW 10075/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-11","answerBy":"2020-11-26","answered":"2020-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail the pass rate for learner drivers (i) since March 2020; and (ii) for the same period in each of the past two years.","answerText":"Learner driver pass rates are published on the Department’s website. The latest reporting of these figures for Q1 2020/21 can be accessed via the link below.\n\nhttps://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/driver-vehicle-agency-activity-statistics\n\nWithin the Driver Practical Testing section of the latest Q1 report, Table 4.5 details pass rates by test category for each quarter from 2008/09 to the end of June 2020. Due to Covid-19, all driver testing was suspended during April to June, 2020. The pass rates for private cars in this quarter for the previous two years, were 54.4% (2019/20) and 54.3% (2018/19) respectively.\n\nDriver testing figures are within scope of National Statistics reporting, and as such they are released to the public by NISRA statisticians in accordance with protocols outlined in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. The next publication of driver testing statistics for the quarter ending 30 September 2020 will be issued on 25 November 2020.","answerHtml":"Learner driver pass rates are published on the Department’s website. The latest reporting of these figures for Q1 2020/21 can be accessed via the link below.
https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/articles/driver-vehicle-agency-activity-statistics
Within the Driver Practical Testing section of the latest Q1 report, Table 4.5 details pass rates by test category for each quarter from 2008/09 to the end of June 2020. Due to Covid-19, all driver testing was suspended during April to June, 2020. The pass rates for private cars in this quarter for the previous two years, were 54.4% (2019/20) and 54.3% (2018/19) respectively.
Driver testing figures are within scope of National Statistics reporting, and as such they are released to the public by NISRA statisticians in accordance with protocols outlined in the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. The next publication of driver testing statistics for the quarter ending 30 September 2020 will be issued on 25 November 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2010075%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315593"}},{"id":"315006","reference":"AQW 9935/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail (i) the funding that has been allocated to NI Water for the long-term resolution of the sewer flooding issues affecting Christie Park, including underneath Sandelford Bridge, in Coleraine; (ii) how future instances of sewer flooding in this area will be avoided; and (iii) what funding has been allocated for the Northern Ireland-wide PC21 (2021-27) investment programme.","answerText":"I am advised by NI Water that a solution to address the sewer flooding affecting Christie Park is not sufficiently progressed, and therefore there is currently no funding allocated to resolve this issue. Any scheme to address the sewer flooding issue in the Christie Park area, including underneath the Sandelford Bridge, will be subject to sufficient funding, and prioritisation, within the PC21 Investment Programme.\n\nIn terms of plans to address future instances of sewer flooding in this area, NI Water has developed a sewer network model to inform a Coleraine Drainage Area Plan (DAP). A high level solution emerging from the model is to upgrade NI Water sewerage infrastructure in the Christie Park area, potentially involving the upsizing of main sewers that run alongside the river and the replacement of the existing Strand Road Wastewater Pumping Station Outline options for inclusion in the Coleraine DAP will be completed in the summer of 2021, with detailed solutions being subject to agreement with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.\n\nThe PC21 process is well underway with the issue of a Draft Determination setting out the Utility Regulator’s initial assessment of NI Water’s Business Plan and funding requirements over the six-year period from 2021-27. Over the six-year period, the Draft Determination states that approximately £2bn will be invested in water and sewerage services, this compares to funding of £990m for PC15. You will be aware that presently funding can only be allocated on an annual basis, and the process for setting the budget for 2021-22 has not commenced.\n\nIt is essential that the appropriate level of funding is provided to NI Water to ensure that these essential services are progressed. NI Water’s PC21 investment programme requires a multi-year budget settlement to provide medium term certainty and to enable greater capital efficiencies. I am working collaboratively with Executive colleagues to raise awareness of this need and to secure this important investment in our water and sewerage infrastructure.","answerHtml":"I am advised by NI Water that a solution to address the sewer flooding affecting Christie Park is not sufficiently progressed, and therefore there is currently no funding allocated to resolve this issue. Any scheme to address the sewer flooding issue in the Christie Park area, including underneath the Sandelford Bridge, will be subject to sufficient funding, and prioritisation, within the PC21 Investment Programme.
In terms of plans to address future instances of sewer flooding in this area, NI Water has developed a sewer network model to inform a Coleraine Drainage Area Plan (DAP). A high level solution emerging from the model is to upgrade NI Water sewerage infrastructure in the Christie Park area, potentially involving the upsizing of main sewers that run alongside the river and the replacement of the existing Strand Road Wastewater Pumping Station Outline options for inclusion in the Coleraine DAP will be completed in the summer of 2021, with detailed solutions being subject to agreement with the Northern Ireland Environment Agency.
The PC21 process is well underway with the issue of a Draft Determination setting out the Utility Regulator’s initial assessment of NI Water’s Business Plan and funding requirements over the six-year period from 2021-27. Over the six-year period, the Draft Determination states that approximately £2bn will be invested in water and sewerage services, this compares to funding of £990m for PC15. You will be aware that presently funding can only be allocated on an annual basis, and the process for setting the budget for 2021-22 has not commenced.
It is essential that the appropriate level of funding is provided to NI Water to ensure that these essential services are progressed. NI Water’s PC21 investment programme requires a multi-year budget settlement to provide medium term certainty and to enable greater capital efficiencies. I am working collaboratively with Executive colleagues to raise awareness of this need and to secure this important investment in our water and sewerage infrastructure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209935%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315006"}},{"id":"315005","reference":"AQW 9934/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether the money reclaimed from ineligible businesses that received COVID funding or grants will be redistributed to businesses which were eligible for funding but which (i) mistakenly applied for the wrong grant; (ii) applied beyond the cut-off point; (iii) missed out on funding because they were not the named ratepayers on the properties their business operated from; or (iv) missed out on funding due to any other oversight of Land and Property Services.","answerText":"The £10,000 Small Business Support Grant scheme, £25,000 Retail, Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure grant scheme and the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund have all closed to applications and appeals. As this is the case, any recovered payments cannot be redistributed within the schemes. Further allocation of funding for Covid business support measures is a matter for collective Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"The £10,000 Small Business Support Grant scheme, £25,000 Retail, Tourism, Hospitality and Leisure grant scheme and the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund have all closed to applications and appeals. As this is the case, any recovered payments cannot be redistributed within the schemes. Further allocation of funding for Covid business support measures is a matter for collective Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209934%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315005"}},{"id":"315004","reference":"AQW 9933/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) what percentage of COVID-19 testing to date has shown a false positive result in tests carried out (a) at COVID-19 testing centre; and (b) at home; and (ii) for his assessment of the method for collecting swabs from those with COVID-19.","answerText":"Given the different testing platforms and kits that are in use for SARS-CoV2 testing, it is not possible to ascertain an accurate overall false positive rate.\n\nTo prevent the reporting of false positives, the laboratory will assess all positives using criteria that may indicate a false positive may be occurring. This criteria includes:\n\nIf only 1 gene target out of 2 or 3 gene targets are positive\n\nWeak Ct values (viral load) close to the limit of detection\n\nWhen these indicators occur repeat testing or testing the sample on a different platform with a different specificity profile is undertaken. This confirmatory testing clarifies the result in most cases.\n\nThe Public Health Authority advises that self-swabbing is a recognised method of collecting samples for testing.","answerHtml":"Given the different testing platforms and kits that are in use for SARS-CoV2 testing, it is not possible to ascertain an accurate overall false positive rate.
To prevent the reporting of false positives, the laboratory will assess all positives using criteria that may indicate a false positive may be occurring. This criteria includes:
If only 1 gene target out of 2 or 3 gene targets are positive
Weak Ct values (viral load) close to the limit of detection
When these indicators occur repeat testing or testing the sample on a different platform with a different specificity profile is undertaken. This confirmatory testing clarifies the result in most cases.
The Public Health Authority advises that self-swabbing is a recognised method of collecting samples for testing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209933%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315004"}},{"id":"315003","reference":"AQW 9932/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2021-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for a breakdown of the numbers of people testing positive for COVID-19 in each week since March 2020, broken by 10-year age bracket.","answerText":"Information on the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 during each week from March 2020 is not currently available by 10 year age bands. However, my Department currently publishes information on the number of individuals with a positive laboratory completed test for COVID-19 during each week since March 2020 by 20 year age bands on pages 10-11 of the DoH COVID Dashboard below:\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/covid-19-daily-dashboard-updates","answerHtml":"Information on the number of people testing positive for COVID-19 during each week from March 2020 is not currently available by 10 year age bands. However, my Department currently publishes information on the number of individuals with a positive laboratory completed test for COVID-19 during each week since March 2020 by 20 year age bands on pages 10-11 of the DoH COVID Dashboard below:
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/covid-19-daily-dashboard-updates
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209932%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315003","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315003"}},{"id":"315002","reference":"AQW 9931/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-09","answerBy":"2020-11-24","answered":"2020-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what are the rates of (i) false positive COVID-19 tests; and (ii) inconclusive tests, broken down by 10-year age ranges.","answerText":"Given the different testing platforms and kits that are in use for SARS-CoV2 testing, it is not possible to ascertain accurate overall false positive test rates.\n\nTo prevent the reporting of false positives, the laboratory will assess all positives using criteria that may indicate a false positive may be occurring. This criteria includes:\n\nIf only 1 gene target out of 2 or 3 gene targets are positive\n\nWeak Ct values (viral load) close to the limit of detection\n\nWhen these indicators occur repeat testing or testing the sample on a different platform with a different specificity profile is undertaken. This confirmatory testing clarifies the result in most cases.\n\nInconclusive test rates are recorded in the Covid-19 Daily Dashboard, at page 6. I have included a link below for your convenience.\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/covid-19-daily-dashboard-updates","answerHtml":"Given the different testing platforms and kits that are in use for SARS-CoV2 testing, it is not possible to ascertain accurate overall false positive test rates.
To prevent the reporting of false positives, the laboratory will assess all positives using criteria that may indicate a false positive may be occurring. This criteria includes:
If only 1 gene target out of 2 or 3 gene targets are positive
Weak Ct values (viral load) close to the limit of detection
When these indicators occur repeat testing or testing the sample on a different platform with a different specificity profile is undertaken. This confirmatory testing clarifies the result in most cases.
Inconclusive test rates are recorded in the Covid-19 Daily Dashboard, at page 6. I have included a link below for your convenience.
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/articles/covid-19-daily-dashboard-updates
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209931%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315002","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315002"}},{"id":"314829","reference":"AQW 9855/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-06","answerBy":"2020-11-23","answered":"2020-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail (i) the conversations she has had with councils to allow people to visit recycling centres without first having to book appointments; and (ii) the reasons for continuing to use the booking system at recycling centres.","answerText":"The majority of Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) have now re-opened across Northern Ireland with the latest information showing that 94 out of 96 sites now operational. The most recent figures gathered from across all 11 local councils indicate that a total of 15 HWRC sites across Northern Ireland are presently operating some type of booking or appointment system.\n\nIn April of this year, I approved a set of key principles and guidance to support councils with issues around the safe re-opening of HWRCs, you can view this here. In order to protect the health and safety of HWRC staff and the public during this pandemic it is important that this set of guidelines, which includes maintaining effective social distancing, are followed and some councils have decided that a booking system has enabled them to better manage this at some sites.\n\nThe operation and ongoing management of HWRCs, including the implementation of any booking or appointment systems, is a matter for each individual council to decide upon and my Department has no powers to direct them in relation to these aspects of their service delivery.","answerHtml":"The majority of Household Waste Recycling Centres (HWRCs) have now re-opened across Northern Ireland with the latest information showing that 94 out of 96 sites now operational. The most recent figures gathered from across all 11 local councils indicate that a total of 15 HWRC sites across Northern Ireland are presently operating some type of booking or appointment system.
In April of this year, I approved a set of key principles and guidance to support councils with issues around the safe re-opening of HWRCs, you can view this here. In order to protect the health and safety of HWRC staff and the public during this pandemic it is important that this set of guidelines, which includes maintaining effective social distancing, are followed and some councils have decided that a booking system has enabled them to better manage this at some sites.
The operation and ongoing management of HWRCs, including the implementation of any booking or appointment systems, is a matter for each individual council to decide upon and my Department has no powers to direct them in relation to these aspects of their service delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209855%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314829"}},{"id":"314828","reference":"AQW 9854/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-06","answerBy":"2020-11-23","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) for an update on the plans she has to extend the Video Relay Service for deaf people to any service that relies on telephone contact with service users or customers, i.e. public, third party and private sectors; (ii) whether this service would be provided by a single or multiple providers; and (iii) what contact she has had, or plans to have, with members of the Northern Irish deaf community as part of this process.","answerText":"My Department is committed to addressing issues of accessibility for the Deaf community and officials are currently developing options to continue to improve and expand local British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreter support.\n\nIn October 2019 my Department introduced a Video Relay Service (VRS) in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability and Carers Service (covering Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance and Carer’s Allowance). As VRS is being deployed across all areas of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), DfC officials have ensured that additional local benefits areas have been included in this roll out from October 2020.\n\nThe Health and Social Care (HSC) Remote Interpreting Service is co-funded by the Department of Health and my Department and is managed by the HSC Board. It was launched as part of an urgent response to the COVID-19 emergency to ensure that BSL and ISL users can contact all non-emergency HSC services for information, advice and to arrange appointments and treatment. This service provides two local Deaf Community Liaison Officers who communicate directly and regularly with BSL and ISL users to promote the service and report continuous feedback from the Deaf Community regarding its effectiveness to the service’s monitoring group.\n\nThe Department of Finance Collaborative Interpretation, Translation and Transcription Services contract has been extended to April 2021 and has been varied to include the capacity for VRS to be delivered by the provider, Action on Hearing Loss. This VRS is available to all public bodies listed at https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/list-public-bodies-which-can-participate-cpd-collaborative-frameworks.\n\nFollowing my meeting with the NI Coalition on Deafness on 9 September during which I had a constructive discussion on how we continue to support Deaf people, I instructed my officials to continue this engagement with the Deaf community and its various representative groups over the coming weeks and months. Officials have subsequently met with several local Deaf organisations in recent weeks to discuss a range of sign language issues, including VRS and financial support for the sector, and will continue to do so.\n\nI assure you that I remain committed to ensuring that BSL and ISL users have the same rights and opportunities as those in the hearing community.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to addressing issues of accessibility for the Deaf community and officials are currently developing options to continue to improve and expand local British Sign Language (BSL) and Irish Sign Language (ISL) interpreter support.
In October 2019 my Department introduced a Video Relay Service (VRS) in Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and Disability and Carers Service (covering Disability Living Allowance, Attendance Allowance and Carer’s Allowance). As VRS is being deployed across all areas of the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), DfC officials have ensured that additional local benefits areas have been included in this roll out from October 2020.
The Health and Social Care (HSC) Remote Interpreting Service is co-funded by the Department of Health and my Department and is managed by the HSC Board. It was launched as part of an urgent response to the COVID-19 emergency to ensure that BSL and ISL users can contact all non-emergency HSC services for information, advice and to arrange appointments and treatment. This service provides two local Deaf Community Liaison Officers who communicate directly and regularly with BSL and ISL users to promote the service and report continuous feedback from the Deaf Community regarding its effectiveness to the service’s monitoring group.
The Department of Finance Collaborative Interpretation, Translation and Transcription Services contract has been extended to April 2021 and has been varied to include the capacity for VRS to be delivered by the provider, Action on Hearing Loss. This VRS is available to all public bodies listed at https://www.finance-ni.gov.uk/publications/list-public-bodies-which-can-participate-cpd-collaborative-frameworks.
Following my meeting with the NI Coalition on Deafness on 9 September during which I had a constructive discussion on how we continue to support Deaf people, I instructed my officials to continue this engagement with the Deaf community and its various representative groups over the coming weeks and months. Officials have subsequently met with several local Deaf organisations in recent weeks to discuss a range of sign language issues, including VRS and financial support for the sector, and will continue to do so.
I assure you that I remain committed to ensuring that BSL and ISL users have the same rights and opportunities as those in the hearing community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209854%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314828"}},{"id":"314827","reference":"AQW 9853/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-06","answerBy":"2020-11-23","answered":"2021-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what steps have been taken to mitigate the effects of shielding, lockdown or isolation on people diagnosed with MS; and what measures have been put in place to meet the demand for rehabilitation therapies such as physiotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic.","answerText":"I am aware of the potential impact of lockdown on the physical and mental wellbeing of our population, particularly those with underlying health conditions including MS. Revised guidance to those who are clinically extremely vulnerable has recently been issued by the Chief Medical Officer and published on the NI Direct website, and encourages people to “not stay permanently indoors”, and “to continue to go outside for exercise, provided they observe social distancing when they do so.” In addition, a mental health and resilience work stream has been created as part of the Mental Health Response Plan to ensure a coherent, cross-departmental and cross-sectoral strategic approach. One of the themes of the plan is the need to respond using evidence-based support and interventions.\n\nWork is also under way to develop a regional proposal to support people who continue to experience long-term health effects as a result of COVID-19 infection. Given the potentially wide range of physical, psychological, mental health symptoms involved, the initial focus is likely to be on a regionally delivered multidisciplinary assessment service, with the aim of delivering equitable geographical access and pathways to the appropriate Health and Social Care services.\n\nIn the meantime, Health and Social Care Trusts across Northern Ireland continue to provide services to MS patients including physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and dietetic treatment. Services are delivered taking into consideration individual patient choice, assessed need and clinical risk via the use of telephone assessments, video-conferencing or through face-to-face contact where deemed clinically appropriate. There has been some reduced capacity for outpatient physiotherapy appointments due to social distancing measures.\n\nPatients can be referred directly by their GP, consultant or other healthcare giver, to their local Allied Health Professional team. Intense or longer term in-patient support can be provided at the Neurology Unit, Musgrave Park Hospital. The unit can offer support to patients who have had recent and significant deterioration in their functional abilities, which would most commonly apply to those with MS, but also those with other conditions with issues around spasticity management.\n\nIn the longer term, the Regional Review of Neurology Services will consider how to improve care pathways for people with long term neurological conditions, including MS, through better access to clinical nurse specialists, dedicated advanced practitioners and physiotherapy to aid the patient’s rehabilitation journey.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the potential impact of lockdown on the physical and mental wellbeing of our population, particularly those with underlying health conditions including MS. Revised guidance to those who are clinically extremely vulnerable has recently been issued by the Chief Medical Officer and published on the NI Direct website, and encourages people to “not stay permanently indoors”, and “to continue to go outside for exercise, provided they observe social distancing when they do so.” In addition, a mental health and resilience work stream has been created as part of the Mental Health Response Plan to ensure a coherent, cross-departmental and cross-sectoral strategic approach. One of the themes of the plan is the need to respond using evidence-based support and interventions.
Work is also under way to develop a regional proposal to support people who continue to experience long-term health effects as a result of COVID-19 infection. Given the potentially wide range of physical, psychological, mental health symptoms involved, the initial focus is likely to be on a regionally delivered multidisciplinary assessment service, with the aim of delivering equitable geographical access and pathways to the appropriate Health and Social Care services.
In the meantime, Health and Social Care Trusts across Northern Ireland continue to provide services to MS patients including physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, and dietetic treatment. Services are delivered taking into consideration individual patient choice, assessed need and clinical risk via the use of telephone assessments, video-conferencing or through face-to-face contact where deemed clinically appropriate. There has been some reduced capacity for outpatient physiotherapy appointments due to social distancing measures.
Patients can be referred directly by their GP, consultant or other healthcare giver, to their local Allied Health Professional team. Intense or longer term in-patient support can be provided at the Neurology Unit, Musgrave Park Hospital. The unit can offer support to patients who have had recent and significant deterioration in their functional abilities, which would most commonly apply to those with MS, but also those with other conditions with issues around spasticity management.
In the longer term, the Regional Review of Neurology Services will consider how to improve care pathways for people with long term neurological conditions, including MS, through better access to clinical nurse specialists, dedicated advanced practitioners and physiotherapy to aid the patient’s rehabilitation journey.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209853%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314827","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314827"}},{"id":"314826","reference":"AQW 9852/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-06","answerBy":"2020-11-23","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what actions have been taken to support and protect dementia sufferers and their carers, in care homes and in private residences, in the context of a second wave of COVID-19 this winter.","answerText":"Trusts have been requested to develop support plans that ensure that Trusts and service providers are working closely together to maintain services in a safe and effective way.\n\nAlong with the Community and Voluntary sector, Trust staff continue to provide local support to people with a dementia and their carers. This has included telephone calls to provide information and offer reassurance and use of other technologies including Apps and video links.\n\nTrust Memory Services have adapted to current circumstances and through the use of technology and other innovative practices, are able to undertake assessments and care reviews.\n\nThe HSC, including the Department, will continue to provide information and guidance in relation to a range of COVID-19 related issues that impact on those who have a dementia, whether they live in the community or are placed in a care home setting.\n\nInformation about Dementia and COVID-19 is available on the following links:\n\nhttps://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/dementia\n\nhttps://www.health-ni.gov.uk/\n\nInformation booklets are also available at:\n\nhttps://www.publichealth.hscni.net/search/node?keys=dementia\n\nWe will continue to review all such interventions and ensure they remain appropriate.","answerHtml":"Trusts have been requested to develop support plans that ensure that Trusts and service providers are working closely together to maintain services in a safe and effective way.
Along with the Community and Voluntary sector, Trust staff continue to provide local support to people with a dementia and their carers. This has included telephone calls to provide information and offer reassurance and use of other technologies including Apps and video links.
Trust Memory Services have adapted to current circumstances and through the use of technology and other innovative practices, are able to undertake assessments and care reviews.
The HSC, including the Department, will continue to provide information and guidance in relation to a range of COVID-19 related issues that impact on those who have a dementia, whether they live in the community or are placed in a care home setting.
Information about Dementia and COVID-19 is available on the following links:
https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/campaigns/dementia
https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/
Information booklets are also available at:
https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/search/node?keys=dementia
We will continue to review all such interventions and ensure they remain appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209852%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314826","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314826"}},{"id":"314825","reference":"AQW 9851/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-06","answerBy":"2020-11-23","answered":"2020-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of instances of fly-tipping recorded since the March lockdown to date, compared to the same period in 2019.","answerText":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of instances of fly-tipping recorded since the March lockdown to date, compared to the same period in 2019\n\nIncidences of alleged ‘illegal waste disposal’ reported to my Department are recorded as such, and not under the specific term ‘fly-tipping’. Since 23 March 2020 to date, my Department has received 782 reported incidents of alleged ‘illegal waste disposal’, compared to 566 in the same period last year, an increase of 38%.\n\nMy Department focuses its enforcement actions primarily on larger scale waste dumping activity rather than low level ad hoc dumping often referred to as ‘fly-tipping’, which is primarily addressed by District Councils (DCs). The increase in waste incidents given above concerned low level ad hoc dumping which were subsequently referred to and dealt with by DCs.","answerHtml":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to detail the number of instances of fly-tipping recorded since the March lockdown to date, compared to the same period in 2019
Incidences of alleged ‘illegal waste disposal’ reported to my Department are recorded as such, and not under the specific term ‘fly-tipping’. Since 23 March 2020 to date, my Department has received 782 reported incidents of alleged ‘illegal waste disposal’, compared to 566 in the same period last year, an increase of 38%.
My Department focuses its enforcement actions primarily on larger scale waste dumping activity rather than low level ad hoc dumping often referred to as ‘fly-tipping’, which is primarily addressed by District Councils (DCs). The increase in waste incidents given above concerned low level ad hoc dumping which were subsequently referred to and dealt with by DCs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209851%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314825"}},{"id":"314593","reference":"AQW 9782/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 8335/17-22, to detail (i) the projected full cost of the wastewater upgrade works for Limavady; (ii) the works included in the potential £63,000 preparation works for the project; and (iii) the full works deemed necessary for the complete Limavady wastewater project.","answerText":"I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that:\n\nThe estimated full cost of investment in wastewater upgrades for Limavady during the PC21 period is £4.2 million. This investment will be subject to funding;\n\nPreparation works will include surveys to confirm existing infrastructure; identify location of services; establish ground conditions; and engagement of contractors and consultant engineers to develop a detailed design that will deliver a best value solution; and\n\nThe Limavady work package is contained within NI Water’s £2 billion business plan for the period 2021 to 2027, known as Price Control 21 (PC21). The Utility Regulator will provide its Final Determination on NI Water’s business plan in March 2021. The full package of work identified for Limavady for the PC21 period is anticipated to fall into three areas:\n\nLimavady Catchment Upgrade\n\nRepair of sewers in the Edenmore Road area\n\nNew trunk sewers in Scroggy Road, Greyabbey Road, Edenmore Road, Ballyquin Road, Roe Valley Park, Benevenagh Drive, Shanreagh Park, Church Street and Blackburn Park\n\nNew pumps and additional storage at Whitehill Wastewater Pumping Station\n\nBovally Wastewater Pumping Station\n\nConstruction of a new pumping station with storage\n\nBallyclose Street Combined Storm Overflow\n\nProvision of storage to protect watercourse from Unsatisfactory Intermittent Discharges\n\nPC21 is subject to the appropriate public expenditure funding being made available to my department. The total funding required will be in the order of £2 billion. This compares to capital spend in the previous Price Control in the order of £940m, and demonstrates the scale of the challenge that we face in order to provide a first class water and sewerage services which enables health, development and economic growth.","answerHtml":"I have been advised by Northern Ireland Water that:
The estimated full cost of investment in wastewater upgrades for Limavady during the PC21 period is £4.2 million. This investment will be subject to funding;
Preparation works will include surveys to confirm existing infrastructure; identify location of services; establish ground conditions; and engagement of contractors and consultant engineers to develop a detailed design that will deliver a best value solution; and
The Limavady work package is contained within NI Water’s £2 billion business plan for the period 2021 to 2027, known as Price Control 21 (PC21). The Utility Regulator will provide its Final Determination on NI Water’s business plan in March 2021. The full package of work identified for Limavady for the PC21 period is anticipated to fall into three areas:
Limavady Catchment Upgrade
Repair of sewers in the Edenmore Road area
New trunk sewers in Scroggy Road, Greyabbey Road, Edenmore Road, Ballyquin Road, Roe Valley Park, Benevenagh Drive, Shanreagh Park, Church Street and Blackburn Park
New pumps and additional storage at Whitehill Wastewater Pumping Station
Bovally Wastewater Pumping Station
Construction of a new pumping station with storage
Ballyclose Street Combined Storm Overflow
Provision of storage to protect watercourse from Unsatisfactory Intermittent Discharges
PC21 is subject to the appropriate public expenditure funding being made available to my department. The total funding required will be in the order of £2 billion. This compares to capital spend in the previous Price Control in the order of £940m, and demonstrates the scale of the challenge that we face in order to provide a first class water and sewerage services which enables health, development and economic growth.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209782%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314593"}},{"id":"314592","reference":"AQW 9781/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure, pursuant to AQW 6243 17-22, for an update (i) on her work with the Office for Low Emission Vehicles for the development of a UK-wide transport decarbonisation plan; and (ii) on her contribution to the Department for the Economy Energy Strategy.","answerText":"Over the last few months, my officials have been working closely with the Department for Transport (DfT) on the development of UK wide transport decarbonisation plans and with the Department for the Economy on the transport elements of the proposed new Energy Strategy for the North.\n\nIn respect of the UK wide plans, my officials will be engaging further with DfT, and the other Devolved Administrations on emerging findings following engagement with key stakeholders from across the transport and environmental sectors in the coming weeks.\n\nIn parallel, my Department continues to lead the Transport Working Group, set up to inform the transport elements of the draft energy strategy. The working group has prioritised four key areas for consideration: modal shift; the electrification of transport; the introduction of alternative fuels; and the future of mobility.\n\nThe outcomes from these comprehensive pieces of work will help shape how transport decarbonisation can be achieved across these Islands, with particular focus on the Northern Ireland context, and will help inform any future policy intentions I would wish to bring forward.","answerHtml":"Over the last few months, my officials have been working closely with the Department for Transport (DfT) on the development of UK wide transport decarbonisation plans and with the Department for the Economy on the transport elements of the proposed new Energy Strategy for the North.
In respect of the UK wide plans, my officials will be engaging further with DfT, and the other Devolved Administrations on emerging findings following engagement with key stakeholders from across the transport and environmental sectors in the coming weeks.
In parallel, my Department continues to lead the Transport Working Group, set up to inform the transport elements of the draft energy strategy. The working group has prioritised four key areas for consideration: modal shift; the electrification of transport; the introduction of alternative fuels; and the future of mobility.
The outcomes from these comprehensive pieces of work will help shape how transport decarbonisation can be achieved across these Islands, with particular focus on the Northern Ireland context, and will help inform any future policy intentions I would wish to bring forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209781%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314592"}},{"id":"314591","reference":"AQW 9780/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what steps are being taken to (i) process the backlog of planning applications; and (ii) ensure other statutory agencies involved in the planning process are working to schedule.","answerText":"While responsibility for processing the majority of planning applications falls to councils, my Department has taken a number of steps to assist with the processing of planning applications as expeditiously as possible during the pandemic, such as: temporarily suspending the requirement for a pre-application community consultation public event; encouraging councils to review their schemes of delegation in order to reduce the number of applications which would be required to go before planning committees for decision; and working with the Department for Communities to bring in regulations enabling councils to hold planning committee meetings remotely in order to allow council business to proceed.\n\nI am also aware that many councils have adopted pragmatic contingency arrangements to ensure planning applications continue to be processed during this period.\n\nIn relation to statutory consultees, I am aware that they are working hard to conduct business as usual, in terms of processing statutory planning consultations, albeit subject to the Covid restrictions. All key statutory consultees are available to participate in virtual or telephone meetings and address any planning queries. My Department is also working closely with statutory consultees through a cross governmental Planning Forum to implement recommendations from a recent report on the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. It is intended that this work will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning process particularly with regard to major and economically sensitive planning applications.","answerHtml":"While responsibility for processing the majority of planning applications falls to councils, my Department has taken a number of steps to assist with the processing of planning applications as expeditiously as possible during the pandemic, such as: temporarily suspending the requirement for a pre-application community consultation public event; encouraging councils to review their schemes of delegation in order to reduce the number of applications which would be required to go before planning committees for decision; and working with the Department for Communities to bring in regulations enabling councils to hold planning committee meetings remotely in order to allow council business to proceed.
I am also aware that many councils have adopted pragmatic contingency arrangements to ensure planning applications continue to be processed during this period.
In relation to statutory consultees, I am aware that they are working hard to conduct business as usual, in terms of processing statutory planning consultations, albeit subject to the Covid restrictions. All key statutory consultees are available to participate in virtual or telephone meetings and address any planning queries. My Department is also working closely with statutory consultees through a cross governmental Planning Forum to implement recommendations from a recent report on the role of statutory consultees in the planning process. It is intended that this work will improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning process particularly with regard to major and economically sensitive planning applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209780%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314591"}},{"id":"314590","reference":"AQW 9779/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what plans she has to extend the two-year validity period of theory test pass certificates for those learner drivers whose theory tests expire after 31 October 2020; and (ii) whether any extension will be backdated to include anyone whose theory test expired from 1 November 2020 onwards.","answerText":"The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996 have been amended to allow an eight month extension to the validity of theory test pass certificates, which expired between 1 March and 31 October 2020 and a 6 month extension to the validity of off-road motorcycle test pass certificates, which expire between 1 March 2020 and 31 August 2020.\n\nFurther legislation will be brought forward and put in place to help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving tests as a result of the latest Covid restrictions.\n\nTheory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months, will have their validity period extended by a further 4 months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months. There is no requirement to further extend the validity period of off-road motorcycle test pass certificates as these tests have continued to be delivered from 6 July 2020.\n\nCustomers whose certificates expire between the relevant dates do not need to do anything: their certificates will be automatically extended, and customers will be able to book a practical driving test when the service reopens on 21st November 2020.","answerHtml":"The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1996 have been amended to allow an eight month extension to the validity of theory test pass certificates, which expired between 1 March and 31 October 2020 and a 6 month extension to the validity of off-road motorcycle test pass certificates, which expire between 1 March 2020 and 31 August 2020.
Further legislation will be brought forward and put in place to help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving tests as a result of the latest Covid restrictions.
Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months, will have their validity period extended by a further 4 months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months. There is no requirement to further extend the validity period of off-road motorcycle test pass certificates as these tests have continued to be delivered from 6 July 2020.
Customers whose certificates expire between the relevant dates do not need to do anything: their certificates will be automatically extended, and customers will be able to book a practical driving test when the service reopens on 21st November 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209779%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314590","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314590"}},{"id":"314589","reference":"AQW 9778/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-20","answered":"2020-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to detail her plans for reopening the practical driving test booking system for slots beyond January 2021 for all learner drivers.","answerText":"Driving instructors are included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that must close until 20 November to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision, driving tests also ceased over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. Driving tests will resume on 21 November. Motorcycle lessons and tests are not affected by these restrictions.\n\nThe DVA has identified that over 1,000 key workers and customers who had their driving test cancelled from late March to the end of June fall within the group of customers who had their tests cancelled due to the current restrictions. The DVA considers these customers as a priority group and has provided them with advance access to the booking system from 9 November to enable them to reschedule their appointments before it opens to the remaining customers whose tests were cancelled.\n\nTo create additional capacity the DVA will open up the booking system for February for the customers impacted by the recent restrictions only. Over 2,000 additional booking slots have also been made available in November, December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. These slots will initially only be available to these impacted customers. Once all customers who had their tests recently cancelled have had the opportunity to rebook their appointments, the DVA is planning to open up the booking service for all other customers in late November/ early December.\n\nThe DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and following consultation with key stakeholders is planning to offer driving tests for Heavy Goods Vehicles on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. The DVA will also use overtime to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide additional capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.\n\nTo help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving as a result of the latest Covid restrictions, I will be bringing forward further legislation to extend the validity of theory test pass certificates. Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months and will expire from 1 November 2020 onwards, will have their validity period extended by a further four months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months.\n\nThe DVA acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and will continue to work hard to maximise the availability of test slots. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times. Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.\n\nIt is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.","answerHtml":"Driving instructors are included in the Executive’s regulations on businesses that must close until 20 November to help stop the spread of Covid-19. Following this Executive decision, driving tests also ceased over this period of increased restrictions based on public health and scientific advice. Driving tests will resume on 21 November. Motorcycle lessons and tests are not affected by these restrictions.
The DVA has identified that over 1,000 key workers and customers who had their driving test cancelled from late March to the end of June fall within the group of customers who had their tests cancelled due to the current restrictions. The DVA considers these customers as a priority group and has provided them with advance access to the booking system from 9 November to enable them to reschedule their appointments before it opens to the remaining customers whose tests were cancelled.
To create additional capacity the DVA will open up the booking system for February for the customers impacted by the recent restrictions only. Over 2,000 additional booking slots have also been made available in November, December and January as the DVA increases capacity by recruiting additional examiners. These slots will initially only be available to these impacted customers. Once all customers who had their tests recently cancelled have had the opportunity to rebook their appointments, the DVA is planning to open up the booking service for all other customers in late November/ early December.
The DVA will continue to offer driving tests on a Saturday and following consultation with key stakeholders is planning to offer driving tests for Heavy Goods Vehicles on Sundays, where it is suitable to do so without compromising the integrity of the test. The DVA will also use overtime to rota off-shift dual role driving examiners to provide additional capacity and to provide cover for scheduled driving tests, where due to a variety of unforeseen reasons such as sick absence or the requirement to self-isolate, driving examiners are unable to attend work.
To help further mitigate the impact on customers due to the cessation of practical driving as a result of the latest Covid restrictions, I will be bringing forward further legislation to extend the validity of theory test pass certificates. Theory test pass certificates which have already been extended by eight months and will expire from 1 November 2020 onwards, will have their validity period extended by a further four months. In addition, theory test pass certificates which expire between 1 November 2020 and 30 June 2021, and which have not already benefited from an extension, will have their validity period extended by eight months.
The DVA acknowledges that learner drivers are keen to take their driving tests at the earliest opportunity and will continue to work hard to maximise the availability of test slots. However, all driving test services across these islands are experiencing high demand with longer than usual waiting times. Like all public facing services, the Covid-19 restrictions mean that the DVA has had to adapt its services to ensure that they can be provided safely and they would ask customers for their patience at this difficult time.
It is my priority to ensure that our staff and customers remain safe and the DVA will continue to be guided by the latest public health and scientific advice as we work as quickly as we can to serve all our customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209778%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314589","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314589"}},{"id":"318052","reference":"AQO 1124/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-05","answerBy":"2020-11-17","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for her assessment of the 24 hour Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline since it changed provider.","answerText":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline changed service provider on 1 April 2019, as a result of a procurement exercise. Delivery of the service, which is funded by the Department for Communities and the Departments of Health and Justice, is closely and regularly monitored against the contract specification. My officials meet regularly with the service provider to review and monitor service provision. I am content, given this close contract management, that the quality of the Helpline Service is being provided to the necessary level.","answerHtml":"The Domestic and Sexual Abuse Helpline changed service provider on 1 April 2019, as a result of a procurement exercise. Delivery of the service, which is funded by the Department for Communities and the Departments of Health and Justice, is closely and regularly monitored against the contract specification. My officials meet regularly with the service provider to review and monitor service provision. I am content, given this close contract management, that the quality of the Helpline Service is being provided to the necessary level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201124%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=318052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=318052"}},{"id":"314443","reference":"AQW 9697/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail how the mental wellbeing of students taking GCSE, AS level and A level examinations will be ensured during the forthcoming exam period; (ii) whether he will commit to prioritising students’ mental health in any new exams procedure that is introduced for this school year; and (iii) how he will ensure the process for determining the assessment procedures is open, fair and transparent.","answerText":"Through the Education Restart Wellbeing Project a range of measures are being delivered in direct response to the Covid-19 pandemic to support the mental health and wellbeing of students including:-\n\nAn Education Authority (EA) online portal of resources available to schools with information on supporting learners, leaders and staff.\n\nA range of information and materials are available on the EA website to support educational settings, young people and parents/carers with emotional health and wellbeing.\n\nThe EA Youth Service have developed an online resource called ‘youth online’ available at www.youthonline.org.uk where children and young people can access information, advice and support directly from Youth Service staff. The Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS) for post primary aged pupils in mainstream Post Primary and Special Schools is available for young people to access through school and self-referral.\n\nThe Education Welfare Service and Education Psychology Service are also working directly with all schools to support the wellbeing of young people and access services as required in accordance with presenting need.\n\nThe £5m Education Restart Wellbeing Project funding has been approved, was launched on 10 November 2020 at St Columbanus College and will be allocated directly to schools very soon. By receiving their own allocation, schools will benefit from having the flexibility to use the money to provide health and wellbeing support for their pupils and/or staff.\n\nWith regard to the fairness of assessment procedures, my announcements of 9 October and 6 November indicate a reduction of assessment burden for young people to take account of lost face to face teaching time and ongoing disruption. This will ensure the validity, rigour and portability of qualifications, particularly for progression to university and other tertiary education providers as well as for future employment.","answerHtml":"Through the Education Restart Wellbeing Project a range of measures are being delivered in direct response to the Covid-19 pandemic to support the mental health and wellbeing of students including:-
An Education Authority (EA) online portal of resources available to schools with information on supporting learners, leaders and staff.
A range of information and materials are available on the EA website to support educational settings, young people and parents/carers with emotional health and wellbeing.
The EA Youth Service have developed an online resource called ‘youth online’ available at www.youthonline.org.uk where children and young people can access information, advice and support directly from Youth Service staff. The Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS) for post primary aged pupils in mainstream Post Primary and Special Schools is available for young people to access through school and self-referral.
The Education Welfare Service and Education Psychology Service are also working directly with all schools to support the wellbeing of young people and access services as required in accordance with presenting need.
The £5m Education Restart Wellbeing Project funding has been approved, was launched on 10 November 2020 at St Columbanus College and will be allocated directly to schools very soon. By receiving their own allocation, schools will benefit from having the flexibility to use the money to provide health and wellbeing support for their pupils and/or staff.
With regard to the fairness of assessment procedures, my announcements of 9 October and 6 November indicate a reduction of assessment burden for young people to take account of lost face to face teaching time and ongoing disruption. This will ensure the validity, rigour and portability of qualifications, particularly for progression to university and other tertiary education providers as well as for future employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209697%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314443"}},{"id":"314442","reference":"AQW 9696/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of (i) COVID-19 rule compliance; and (ii) the effectiveness of these mitigation strategies.","answerText":"An assessment of (i) COVID-19 rule compliance; and (ii) the effectiveness of the mitigation strategies has not formally been undertaken by the Department.\n\nThe Education Authority has Education Link Officers who regularly engage with schools to support them as they implement DE guidance in many areas.\n\nThe Department continues to work closely with the Education Authority, the Department of Health and the Public Health Agency during the ongoing pandemic. Guidance is constantly under review and as and will be updated as needed and driven by health advice provided by CMO and CSA.","answerHtml":"An assessment of (i) COVID-19 rule compliance; and (ii) the effectiveness of the mitigation strategies has not formally been undertaken by the Department.
The Education Authority has Education Link Officers who regularly engage with schools to support them as they implement DE guidance in many areas.
The Department continues to work closely with the Education Authority, the Department of Health and the Public Health Agency during the ongoing pandemic. Guidance is constantly under review and as and will be updated as needed and driven by health advice provided by CMO and CSA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209696%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314442"}},{"id":"314441","reference":"AQW 9695/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, since the restart of schools in August, (i) how many pupils have applied for remote learning; and (ii) how many have been provided with it.","answerText":"Pupils do not apply for remote learning. My Department has asked schools to have contingency plans in place for the delivery of remote learning to pupils in the event of a school closure due to COVID-19, or that a class or group of pupils need to self-isolate.\n\nMy Department does not collect data on the number of pupils who have been provided with remote learning, as this would be a bureaucratic burden on schools to provide on a daily basis.\n\nA small number of children will be advised by their clinical team not to attend school. Where a child has been medically advised by a consultant not to attend school during 2020/21, parents should consult with their school Principal and the Education Authority regarding education provision for these pupils. This is not termed remote learning.","answerHtml":"Pupils do not apply for remote learning. My Department has asked schools to have contingency plans in place for the delivery of remote learning to pupils in the event of a school closure due to COVID-19, or that a class or group of pupils need to self-isolate.
My Department does not collect data on the number of pupils who have been provided with remote learning, as this would be a bureaucratic burden on schools to provide on a daily basis.
A small number of children will be advised by their clinical team not to attend school. Where a child has been medically advised by a consultant not to attend school during 2020/21, parents should consult with their school Principal and the Education Authority regarding education provision for these pupils. This is not termed remote learning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209695%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314441"}},{"id":"314440","reference":"AQW 9694/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what additional funding has been provided to schools for (a) personal protective equipment; and (b) the provision of remote learning since they reopened; and (ii) what the average is for each, per school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"(i) (a) My Department has allocated £13.5 million of additional funding to grant aided schools for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on a per pupil basis. Details of the individual allocations to schools are available on the Education Authority's website.\n\n(b) Funding to support remote learning is not provided on an individual school basis as it is better value for money for digital devices and other services to be procured centrally. My Department has allocated the following funds to support the provision of remote learning:\n\n£2.4 million to support the expansion of bandwidth in particularly low bandwidth areas, and also for the procurement of additional learning applications to support remote learning;\n\n£2.2 million for the purchase of 8,000 Chromebooks for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners;\n\n£2 million for laptops for primary pupils for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners;\n\n£0.2 million for 8,000 WIFI vouchers for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners; and\n\n£25k for MIFI Units (i.e. Mobile WIFI dongles) for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners.\n\nThe costs provided do not include the cost of internal staffing resources within the Department and its arm’s length bodies involved in developing resources and guidance for schools to support remote learning.\n\n(ii) Funding for remote learning is managed centrally by the Education Authority and is not distributed on a per school basis. It is therefore not possible to provide an average cost per school. The average funding allocated to grant aided schools for PPE (albeit on a per pupil basis) is £12,487 per school.","answerHtml":"(i) (a) My Department has allocated £13.5 million of additional funding to grant aided schools for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) on a per pupil basis. Details of the individual allocations to schools are available on the Education Authority's website.
(b) Funding to support remote learning is not provided on an individual school basis as it is better value for money for digital devices and other services to be procured centrally. My Department has allocated the following funds to support the provision of remote learning:
£2.4 million to support the expansion of bandwidth in particularly low bandwidth areas, and also for the procurement of additional learning applications to support remote learning;
£2.2 million for the purchase of 8,000 Chromebooks for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners;
£2 million for laptops for primary pupils for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners;
£0.2 million for 8,000 WIFI vouchers for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners; and
£25k for MIFI Units (i.e. Mobile WIFI dongles) for disadvantaged or vulnerable learners.
The costs provided do not include the cost of internal staffing resources within the Department and its arm’s length bodies involved in developing resources and guidance for schools to support remote learning.
(ii) Funding for remote learning is managed centrally by the Education Authority and is not distributed on a per school basis. It is therefore not possible to provide an average cost per school. The average funding allocated to grant aided schools for PPE (albeit on a per pupil basis) is £12,487 per school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209694%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314440"}},{"id":"314439","reference":"AQW 9693/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-04","answerBy":"2020-11-19","answered":"2020-11-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 7021/17-22, (i) for an update on the result of discussions between his Department and CCEA regarding qualification specifications and exams for academic year 2020/21; and (ii) when a final decision will be made on the provision of such.","answerText":"On 9 October, I publicly announced changes to the delivery of GCSE, AS and A level qualifications in 2020/21 and wrote to all school leaders, parents and young people to provide clarity on the changes announced. Details of these changes are set out in addendums to each qualification specification which can be found on the CCEA website.\n\nOn 6 November, I agreed adaptions to a further five GCSES to ensure that pupils are assessed on a minimum of 60% of the overall qualification. This decision has also been communicated to schools and CCEA will now work with schools to provide more information at a centre level as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"On 9 October, I publicly announced changes to the delivery of GCSE, AS and A level qualifications in 2020/21 and wrote to all school leaders, parents and young people to provide clarity on the changes announced. Details of these changes are set out in addendums to each qualification specification which can be found on the CCEA website.
On 6 November, I agreed adaptions to a further five GCSES to ensure that pupils are assessed on a minimum of 60% of the overall qualification. This decision has also been communicated to schools and CCEA will now work with schools to provide more information at a centre level as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209693%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314439"}},{"id":"314225","reference":"AQW 9599/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2021-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether businesses registered independently but with the same (i) trading name; (ii) registered business address; and (iii) company directors were eligible for separate, of the same or differing variety, Executive grants to help businesses affected by COVID-19 restrictions.","answerText":"£10k scheme\t£25k scheme\tHardship Fund\nBusinesses registered independently with the same trading name\tEligible if separately registered companies.\tEligible if separately registered companies\tEligible if operating as separate entities.\nBusinesses registered independently with the same registered business address\tEligible if separately registered companies operating as separate businesses paying separate rate bills.\tEligible if independently registered companies with same address. Would have to be operating as a separate business from same address and paying separate rate bills.\tBusinesses that were separate entities and registered independently at the same address would have been eligible for payment though the amounts available would have been dependent on their rating status.\nCompany Directors\tWould be potentially eligible for each individually registered company that meets the criteria.\tNot taken into account as it was businesses who were eligible not directors.\tTwo separate companies with the same company directors would have been eligible for multiple grants if they met all other criteria.\n\nBusinesses that were in receipt of the £10k or £25k grant schemes were not eligible for payment from the Microbusiness Hardship Fund. Checks were carried out between the three schemes to mitigate against the risk of multiple payments.\n\nFor the £10k scheme, only one grant was paid in respect of each property and only one grant was paid to each eligible business, irrespective of how many properties the business occupies.\n\nIf separate businesses are operating from separate properties, then a grant could have been paid in relation to each separate business that occupies a separate property.\n\nIf a business had multiple properties and one of these grants fell within the £25k scheme eligibility, and the other within the £10k scheme eligibility, the business was eligible for one £10k grant and one £25k grant.","answerHtml":"| £10k scheme | £25k scheme | Hardship Fund | |
| Businesses registered independently with the same trading name | Eligible if separately registered companies. | Eligible if separately registered companies | Eligible if operating as separate entities. |
| Businesses registered independently with the same registered business address | Eligible if separately registered companies operating as separate businesses paying separate rate bills. | Eligible if independently registered companies with same address. Would have to be operating as a separate business from same address and paying separate rate bills. | Businesses that were separate entities and registered independently at the same address would have been eligible for payment though the amounts available would have been dependent on their rating status. |
| Company Directors | Would be potentially eligible for each individually registered company that meets the criteria. | Not taken into account as it was businesses who were eligible not directors. | Two separate companies with the same company directors would have been eligible for multiple grants if they met all other criteria. |
Businesses that were in receipt of the £10k or £25k grant schemes were not eligible for payment from the Microbusiness Hardship Fund. Checks were carried out between the three schemes to mitigate against the risk of multiple payments.
For the £10k scheme, only one grant was paid in respect of each property and only one grant was paid to each eligible business, irrespective of how many properties the business occupies.
If separate businesses are operating from separate properties, then a grant could have been paid in relation to each separate business that occupies a separate property.
If a business had multiple properties and one of these grants fell within the £25k scheme eligibility, and the other within the £10k scheme eligibility, the business was eligible for one £10k grant and one £25k grant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209599%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314225","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314225"}},{"id":"314224","reference":"AQW 9598/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2021-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether businesses with multiple outlets or sites were eligible for only one COVID-19-related grant per business, or for one grant per outlet or site.","answerText":"One of the conditions of both the £10,000 and £25,000 Business Support Grant schemes, agreed by the Executive, was that businesses with multiple premises meeting eligibility criteria would only be eligible to receive one grant of £10,000 or £25,000 per business irrespective of how many properties the business occupied. Businesses were able to avail of one £10,000 grant and one £25,000 grant, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the schemes.\n\nThe same applied to the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund with one grant payable per eligible business regardless of number of premises.\n\nThere was limited funding available for the schemes and the Executive took the decision to limit eligible businesses with multiple premises to one payment so that support could be offered to all potentially eligible businesses.\n\nPart B of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme, which is currently open for applications, is not restricted to one grant per business. As agreed by the Executive, and in line with the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme, businesses who meet the eligibility criteria for the scheme can receive support for multiple premises.","answerHtml":"One of the conditions of both the £10,000 and £25,000 Business Support Grant schemes, agreed by the Executive, was that businesses with multiple premises meeting eligibility criteria would only be eligible to receive one grant of £10,000 or £25,000 per business irrespective of how many properties the business occupied. Businesses were able to avail of one £10,000 grant and one £25,000 grant, subject to meeting the eligibility criteria for the schemes.
The same applied to the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund with one grant payable per eligible business regardless of number of premises.
There was limited funding available for the schemes and the Executive took the decision to limit eligible businesses with multiple premises to one payment so that support could be offered to all potentially eligible businesses.
Part B of the Covid Restrictions Business Support Scheme, which is currently open for applications, is not restricted to one grant per business. As agreed by the Executive, and in line with the Localised Restrictions Support Scheme, businesses who meet the eligibility criteria for the scheme can receive support for multiple premises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209598%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314224","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314224"}},{"id":"314223","reference":"AQW 9597/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2021-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what steps were taken to ensure multiple grants, of the same or differing variety, were not awarded to businesses with the same (i) trading name; (ii) registered business address; and (iii) company directors.","answerText":"The Member has clarified that this question relates to the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme, the £25,000 Business Support Grant Scheme for the Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Sectors and the Micro-Business Hardship Fund. The processes for each of the schemes is set out below:\n\nI. £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme\n\nLand and Property Services put in place database IT coded queries to cross match all applications and check for applications with any of the following;\n\nthe same ratepayer name (this would include trading name);\n\nthe same billing address (this would include a registered business address where it was used as the billing address);\n\nthe same bank account details;\n\nthe same email address; and\n\napplicants not in receipt of Small Business Rates Relief because of more than 3 properties being recorded as occupied by the same person/business in the rating IT system.\n\nThis identified any multiple applications from the same business where separate rate accounts were set up for each property in the name of the business or sole trader.\n\nApplications flagged by these checks had to be individually reviewed by a member of staff before they could be approved. Where necessary, applicants were requested to provide evidence that applications related to separate businesses with confirmation being required from a solicitor or accountant. For limited companies, these checks included confirming what information was held on Companies House for the business.\n\nEvery payment file on the £10,000 grant scheme was cross checked against payments on the £25,000 grant scheme to avoid two payments being made to the same business.\n\nThere were no routine checks in place to identify applications from businesses with the same company directors. Separate limited companies were each eligible for the grant if they met the other eligibility criteria.\n\nII. £25,000 Business Support Grant Scheme\n\nApplications with the same trading name would have been eligible for the £25k scheme if they were from separately registered companies. The Department only paid one grant per registered company. A company could receive a grant from the £10k Scheme and the £25k scheme if it operated from a different premise.\n\nThe Department also had in place cross-checking procedures with the Department of Finance regarding the receipt of grants under the £10k scheme and only paid a balance of £15k where a successful application to the £25k scheme was made, but the company had previously received a £10k grant for the same business.\n\nThe Department paid per eligible business. If two eligible businesses operated from the same registered business address and paid separate rates they may have been eligible.\n\nCompany Directors were not a consideration in scheme verification as it was the business that was eligible for the scheme, not Company Directors.\n\nThe Department had multiple checks in place to ensure the above rules were applied and to prevent duplicate payments. Verification of applications was made on the basis of the information that was available.\n\nIII. Micro-Business Hardship Fund\n\nApplications to the Microbusiness Hardship Fund (MBHF) were subjected to a range of checks involving Invest NI, DfE and Land and Property Services. These included checks of trading name, registered address, bank account details, business ratepayer IDs and against companies house data.\n\nThese checks were designed to mitigate against the possibility that a business with multiple premises would receive multiple MBHF payments, or against the possibility that a business which had already received a £10k or £25k grant would also receive payment from the Microbusiness Hardship Fund.\n\nAssuming they were separate entities, businesses with the same trading name were not excluded from the scheme.\n\nChecks against companies house information was used to verify / corroborate other information received as part of the application process and not as a definitive test to approve applications – there were a number of reasons for this, including that the majority of applications were not from registered companies.\n\nIn terms of company directors, two separate companies with the same company directors would have been eligible for support under the terms of the fund, assuming they met all other eligibility criteria.","answerHtml":"The Member has clarified that this question relates to the £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme, the £25,000 Business Support Grant Scheme for the Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Sectors and the Micro-Business Hardship Fund. The processes for each of the schemes is set out below:
I. £10,000 Small Business Support Grant Scheme
Land and Property Services put in place database IT coded queries to cross match all applications and check for applications with any of the following;
the same ratepayer name (this would include trading name);
the same billing address (this would include a registered business address where it was used as the billing address);
the same bank account details;
the same email address; and
applicants not in receipt of Small Business Rates Relief because of more than 3 properties being recorded as occupied by the same person/business in the rating IT system.
This identified any multiple applications from the same business where separate rate accounts were set up for each property in the name of the business or sole trader.
Applications flagged by these checks had to be individually reviewed by a member of staff before they could be approved. Where necessary, applicants were requested to provide evidence that applications related to separate businesses with confirmation being required from a solicitor or accountant. For limited companies, these checks included confirming what information was held on Companies House for the business.
Every payment file on the £10,000 grant scheme was cross checked against payments on the £25,000 grant scheme to avoid two payments being made to the same business.
There were no routine checks in place to identify applications from businesses with the same company directors. Separate limited companies were each eligible for the grant if they met the other eligibility criteria.
II. £25,000 Business Support Grant Scheme
Applications with the same trading name would have been eligible for the £25k scheme if they were from separately registered companies. The Department only paid one grant per registered company. A company could receive a grant from the £10k Scheme and the £25k scheme if it operated from a different premise.
The Department also had in place cross-checking procedures with the Department of Finance regarding the receipt of grants under the £10k scheme and only paid a balance of £15k where a successful application to the £25k scheme was made, but the company had previously received a £10k grant for the same business.
The Department paid per eligible business. If two eligible businesses operated from the same registered business address and paid separate rates they may have been eligible.
Company Directors were not a consideration in scheme verification as it was the business that was eligible for the scheme, not Company Directors.
The Department had multiple checks in place to ensure the above rules were applied and to prevent duplicate payments. Verification of applications was made on the basis of the information that was available.
III. Micro-Business Hardship Fund
Applications to the Microbusiness Hardship Fund (MBHF) were subjected to a range of checks involving Invest NI, DfE and Land and Property Services. These included checks of trading name, registered address, bank account details, business ratepayer IDs and against companies house data.
These checks were designed to mitigate against the possibility that a business with multiple premises would receive multiple MBHF payments, or against the possibility that a business which had already received a £10k or £25k grant would also receive payment from the Microbusiness Hardship Fund.
Assuming they were separate entities, businesses with the same trading name were not excluded from the scheme.
Checks against companies house information was used to verify / corroborate other information received as part of the application process and not as a definitive test to approve applications – there were a number of reasons for this, including that the majority of applications were not from registered companies.
In terms of company directors, two separate companies with the same company directors would have been eligible for support under the terms of the fund, assuming they met all other eligibility criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209597%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314223"}},{"id":"314222","reference":"AQW 9596/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-11-03","answerBy":"2020-11-18","answered":"2021-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the number and business type of the businesses (i) eligible; and (ii) ineligible for COVID-19-related grants that were unsuccessful in their applications; and the reasons given for not awarding them.","answerText":"For the Small Business Support Grant scheme, a total of 23,930 businesses were deemed eligible. Land & Property Services (LPS) issued 12,791 rejection e-mails to applicants to the scheme. An analysis of these figures by business type cannot be provided as this information is not held in the rating database.\n\nA breakdown of the rejections figure by reason cannot be provided, however all rejections fell into one of the following categories:\n\nProperty listed as vacant on rating system.\n\nProperty valued as a domestic property for rates.\n\nNot in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief.\n\nNAV over £15,000, therefore not in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief.\n\nOther rating exemption, meaning they are not in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief.\n\nRate account IDs provided were invalid.\n\nThe business had already been paid in relation to another property they occupy.\n\nApplicant was a landlord.\n\nBusiness outside parameters of the scheme (for example wind turbine, primary class exclusion, etc).\n\nNo evidence that a business was operating at the property.\n\nBusiness received £25,000 grant.\n\nBusiness renting part of the property from the main occupying business with no separate valuation for the part they occupy.\n\nBusiness was dissolved/insolvent/dormant.\n\nApplications relating to properties outside NI.\n\nThere were also businesses who made multiple applications for the same property who would have received a payment against one of their applications and rejections in relation to the other applications.\n\nApplicants who were rejected for one of these reasons may have subsequently provided additional evidence that proved their eligibility and they subsequently received payment. LPS has considered 834 appeals from rejected applicants, of which 495 have resulted in a payment. 5 appeals remain to be decided.\n\nFor the £25,000 Retail Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Grant scheme, 2,995 businesses were deemed eligible. A total of 694 applications had been rejected on the grounds of duplication or ineligibility.\n\nA breakdown of these figures by business sector is available in the ‘Operation of the scheme by council, constituency and sector’ section on the following webpage - https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-£25000-retail-hospitality-tourism-and-leisure-grant. Based upon applications received, this details applications by decision status (paid/rejected/being processed), and provides a facility to interrogate by District Council area, Parliamentary Constituency, and supported sector.\n\nA breakdown of the figure for rejected applications by reason cannot be provided but applications were rejected for the following reasons:\n\nCompany Dissolved\n\nCompany Does Not Exist\n\nCompany Dormant\n\nDuplicate Application\n\nIneligible Sector\n\nInsolvency\n\nInsufficient evidence\n\nNot business owner\n\nNot Trading at 15/3/2020\n\nNot registered ratepayer\n\nState Aid limit exceeded\n\nVacant property\n\nFor the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund, 4,299 applications were eligible and received payment. A total of 661 businesses were found to be ineligible. A breakdown of these figures by business type is provided below.\n\nBusiness Type\tEligible\tIneligible\nAdministrative, support service, defence, compulsory social security and Education activities.\t399\t75\nAdvanced Engineering & Manufacturing\t449\t65\nAgri-Food\t167\t40\nAgriculture, forestry, fishing, Mining & Quarrying\t21\t7\nArts, entertainment, recreation and other services\t341\t69\nConstruction\t1,461\t153\nDigital & Creative Technologies\t130\t14\nElectricity, gas, steam, air conditioning, Water Collection, Treatment & Supply\t64\t9\nFinancial, Professional & Business Services\t418\t53\nHuman health and social work activities\t35\t7\nLeisure & Tourism\t81\t22\nLife & Health Sciences\t94\t27\nPrimary Construction / Building\t172\t18\nTransport & storage\t185\t32\nWholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles\t282\t70\nTotal\t4,299\t661\n\nDetails of the rejected applications for the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund are provided below. Please note this information is provisional and may be subject to revision.\n\nHardship Fund Reject Reason\tNo of Cases\nfailed HMRC checks\t165\nLPS has indicated that your business has been paid for or approved for a LPS grant\t115\nNo Data\t73\nthe PAYE ERN you have entered in your application is incorrect\t86\nwe have been unable to confirm your bank details despite two attempts to contact you\t4\nwe have been unable to confirm your identity despite two attempts to contact you\t2\nyou have indicated in your application that your business does not have between 1 and 9 employees on PAYE on the 29th Feb 2020\t82\nyou have indicated that your business has applied for the £10k LPS grant and that you have been paid or approved for this grant\t14\nyou have indicated that your business has Charitable Status\t4\nyou have indicated that your business is a primary Agricultural producer\t5\nyou have indicated that your business is a Social Enterprise that receives less than 60% of its income from trade in good and/or services\t2\nyou have indicated that your business turnover has not reduced by 40% or more since the 1st March 2020 as a result of the COVID – 19 pandemic or associated Government restrictions\t95\n\nyour business has Charitable status\t1\nyour business is eligible for the Covid – 19 Childcare support scheme\t13\nOverall - Summary\t661","answerHtml":"For the Small Business Support Grant scheme, a total of 23,930 businesses were deemed eligible. Land & Property Services (LPS) issued 12,791 rejection e-mails to applicants to the scheme. An analysis of these figures by business type cannot be provided as this information is not held in the rating database.
A breakdown of the rejections figure by reason cannot be provided, however all rejections fell into one of the following categories:
Property listed as vacant on rating system.
Property valued as a domestic property for rates.
Not in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief.
NAV over £15,000, therefore not in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief.
Other rating exemption, meaning they are not in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief.
Rate account IDs provided were invalid.
The business had already been paid in relation to another property they occupy.
Applicant was a landlord.
Business outside parameters of the scheme (for example wind turbine, primary class exclusion, etc).
No evidence that a business was operating at the property.
Business received £25,000 grant.
Business renting part of the property from the main occupying business with no separate valuation for the part they occupy.
Business was dissolved/insolvent/dormant.
Applications relating to properties outside NI.
There were also businesses who made multiple applications for the same property who would have received a payment against one of their applications and rejections in relation to the other applications.
Applicants who were rejected for one of these reasons may have subsequently provided additional evidence that proved their eligibility and they subsequently received payment. LPS has considered 834 appeals from rejected applicants, of which 495 have resulted in a payment. 5 appeals remain to be decided.
For the £25,000 Retail Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Grant scheme, 2,995 businesses were deemed eligible. A total of 694 applications had been rejected on the grounds of duplication or ineligibility.
A breakdown of these figures by business sector is available in the ‘Operation of the scheme by council, constituency and sector’ section on the following webpage - https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-£25000-retail-hospitality-tourism-and-leisure-grant. Based upon applications received, this details applications by decision status (paid/rejected/being processed), and provides a facility to interrogate by District Council area, Parliamentary Constituency, and supported sector.
A breakdown of the figure for rejected applications by reason cannot be provided but applications were rejected for the following reasons:
Company Dissolved
Company Does Not Exist
Company Dormant
Duplicate Application
Ineligible Sector
Insolvency
Insufficient evidence
Not business owner
Not Trading at 15/3/2020
Not registered ratepayer
State Aid limit exceeded
Vacant property
For the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund, 4,299 applications were eligible and received payment. A total of 661 businesses were found to be ineligible. A breakdown of these figures by business type is provided below.
| Business Type | Eligible | Ineligible |
| Administrative, support service, defence, compulsory social security and Education activities. | 399 | 75 |
| Advanced Engineering & Manufacturing | 449 | 65 |
| Agri-Food | 167 | 40 |
| Agriculture, forestry, fishing, Mining & Quarrying | 21 | 7 |
| Arts, entertainment, recreation and other services | 341 | 69 |
| Construction | 1,461 | 153 |
| Digital & Creative Technologies | 130 | 14 |
| Electricity, gas, steam, air conditioning, Water Collection, Treatment & Supply | 64 | 9 |
| Financial, Professional & Business Services | 418 | 53 |
| Human health and social work activities | 35 | 7 |
| Leisure & Tourism | 81 | 22 |
| Life & Health Sciences | 94 | 27 |
| Primary Construction / Building | 172 | 18 |
| Transport & storage | 185 | 32 |
| Wholesale and retail trade; repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles | 282 | 70 |
| Total | 4,299 | 661 |
Details of the rejected applications for the NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund are provided below. Please note this information is provisional and may be subject to revision.
| Hardship Fund Reject Reason | No of Cases |
| failed HMRC checks | 165 |
| LPS has indicated that your business has been paid for or approved for a LPS grant | 115 |
| No Data | 73 |
| the PAYE ERN you have entered in your application is incorrect | 86 |
| we have been unable to confirm your bank details despite two attempts to contact you | 4 |
| we have been unable to confirm your identity despite two attempts to contact you | 2 |
| you have indicated in your application that your business does not have between 1 and 9 employees on PAYE on the 29th Feb 2020 | 82 |
| you have indicated that your business has applied for the £10k LPS grant and that you have been paid or approved for this grant | 14 |
| you have indicated that your business has Charitable Status | 4 |
| you have indicated that your business is a primary Agricultural producer | 5 |
| you have indicated that your business is a Social Enterprise that receives less than 60% of its income from trade in good and/or services | 2 |
| you have indicated that your business turnover has not reduced by 40% or more since the 1st March 2020 as a result of the COVID – 19 pandemic or associated Government restrictions | 95 |
| your business has Charitable status | 1 |
| your business is eligible for the Covid – 19 Childcare support scheme | 13 |
| Overall - Summary | 661 |
I would refer the Member to the reply I gave to AQW 9546/17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%209595%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=314221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=314221"}},{"id":"315160","reference":"AQO 1022/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-15","answerBy":"2020-11-03","answered":"2020-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities what schemes are available to support places of worship subject to criminal behaviour.","answerText":"While my Department is not responsible for crime and justice issues, I share the member’s concerns on this issue.\n\nMy Department has policy interest in faith communities from a community development perspective and to that end we provide funding support for a Community Faith Forum.\n\nThe Forum provides a platform for engagement between the faith sector and officials from across Executive departments.\n\nAs a result my Department has previously received correspondence on this issue, which has been shared with The Department of Justice for further consideration, as well as with the Executive Office, which is the lead department for Good Relations and the implementation of the Race Equality Strategy.\n\nWe have also facilitated discussions between the Forum and the Department of Justice, most recently in December twenty nineteen, when attacks on places of worship was discussed.\n\nA further engagement between the Department of Justice and the Faith Forum is planned for December.\n\nAny future scheme to support places of worship subject to criminal behaviour will be a matter for Department of Justice.","answerHtml":"While my Department is not responsible for crime and justice issues, I share the member’s concerns on this issue.
My Department has policy interest in faith communities from a community development perspective and to that end we provide funding support for a Community Faith Forum.
The Forum provides a platform for engagement between the faith sector and officials from across Executive departments.
As a result my Department has previously received correspondence on this issue, which has been shared with The Department of Justice for further consideration, as well as with the Executive Office, which is the lead department for Good Relations and the implementation of the Race Equality Strategy.
We have also facilitated discussions between the Forum and the Department of Justice, most recently in December twenty nineteen, when attacks on places of worship was discussed.
A further engagement between the Department of Justice and the Faith Forum is planned for December.
Any future scheme to support places of worship subject to criminal behaviour will be a matter for Department of Justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%201022%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=315160","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=315160"}},{"id":"311372","reference":"AQW 8503/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 7702/17-22, whether there is an opportunity to reassess means to apply for Low Income Rate Relief after the rates bill has been issued, thereby reducing the amount payable in one payment or through multiple payments in the same year.","answerText":"Awards of Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief are subject to regular reassessment of claimants circumstances. While Housing Benefit Regulations allow for retrospective reassessments, for many, changes are applied going forward from the Monday after the change has been notified to the Authority.\n\nThe assessment of entitlement to Low Income Rate Relief is determined by entitlement to Housing Benefit in accordance with Regulation 7(c) of The Rate Relief (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007. As Low Income Rate Relief is intrinsically based on Housing Benefit entitlement, my Department does not intend to review the Low Income Rate Relief Scheme.\n\nNew applications for Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief can be made by for non-working age citizens, those in supported accommodation and those receiving a severe disability premium as part of their benefit package.\n\nAs a result of Welfare Reform, Universal Credit has replaced six social security benefits for working age citizens seeking help through the welfare system. Housing Benefit is one of the six legacy benefits replaced by Universal Credit. Working age citizens are not eligible to make a new claim for Housing Benefit (Rates) or, by extension, Low Income Rate Relief. However, claimants in receipt of Universal Credit can apply online for help with rates through the Rate Rebate Scheme administered by Land & Property Services.\n\nIf a person believes that they may be eligible for either Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief or the Rate Rebate Scheme, an application can be made at any time. If approved, Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief awards may be backdated a maximum of one month for working age claimants or three months for non-working age claimants. Awards of Rate Rebate are linked to entitlement to Universal Credit and it may be possible for claims to be awarded for a period of up to three months prior to the date the claim was received.","answerHtml":"Awards of Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief are subject to regular reassessment of claimants circumstances. While Housing Benefit Regulations allow for retrospective reassessments, for many, changes are applied going forward from the Monday after the change has been notified to the Authority.
The assessment of entitlement to Low Income Rate Relief is determined by entitlement to Housing Benefit in accordance with Regulation 7(c) of The Rate Relief (General) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2007. As Low Income Rate Relief is intrinsically based on Housing Benefit entitlement, my Department does not intend to review the Low Income Rate Relief Scheme.
New applications for Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief can be made by for non-working age citizens, those in supported accommodation and those receiving a severe disability premium as part of their benefit package.
As a result of Welfare Reform, Universal Credit has replaced six social security benefits for working age citizens seeking help through the welfare system. Housing Benefit is one of the six legacy benefits replaced by Universal Credit. Working age citizens are not eligible to make a new claim for Housing Benefit (Rates) or, by extension, Low Income Rate Relief. However, claimants in receipt of Universal Credit can apply online for help with rates through the Rate Rebate Scheme administered by Land & Property Services.
If a person believes that they may be eligible for either Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief or the Rate Rebate Scheme, an application can be made at any time. If approved, Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief awards may be backdated a maximum of one month for working age claimants or three months for non-working age claimants. Awards of Rate Rebate are linked to entitlement to Universal Credit and it may be possible for claims to be awarded for a period of up to three months prior to the date the claim was received.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208503%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311372","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311372"}},{"id":"311370","reference":"AQW 8501/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) what action is being taken to provide social housing in East Londonderry for applicants currently on the waiting list; (ii) what funding is required to provide outstanding social housing for those still on the waiting list; and (iii) whether she has created a business case to present to the Executive to bid for capital monies to build more required social housing.","answerText":"(i) What action is being taken to provide social housing in East Derry for applicants currently on the waiting list;\n\nThere have been 25 new social homes completed in the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency to-date in 2020/21. A further 130 social homes are under construction in the Constituency; and 115 social homes are currently programmed to start through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) over the next three years.\n\n(ii) What funding is required to provide outstanding social housing for those still on the waiting list;\n\nA budget of £131m has been made available to the Housing Executive to deliver a minimum of 1,850 Starts on social housing accommodation in the 2020/21 year, including several new social housing proposals in the Derry Parliamentary Constituency.\n\nThe Housing Executive is currently formulating the draft Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) for the next 3-year period (2021/22 – 2023/24), which includes further proposals for the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency.\n\nUnfortunately, I can’t be definitive about the exact funding required to meet outstanding housing need in a given geographical area, but the example of the annual figures set out above - £131m to deliver a minimum of 1,850 starts this year – gives a broad indication of the scale of the challenge to address housing need.\n\niii) Whether she has created a business case to present to the Executive to bid for capital monies to build more required social housing.\n\nIn the most recent budget planning exercise, my Department has set out capital requirements for an increase in new social build - in line with the New Decade, New Approach, commitments to “enhance investment in new social and affordable home starts.","answerHtml":"(i) What action is being taken to provide social housing in East Derry for applicants currently on the waiting list;
There have been 25 new social homes completed in the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency to-date in 2020/21. A further 130 social homes are under construction in the Constituency; and 115 social homes are currently programmed to start through the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) over the next three years.
(ii) What funding is required to provide outstanding social housing for those still on the waiting list;
A budget of £131m has been made available to the Housing Executive to deliver a minimum of 1,850 Starts on social housing accommodation in the 2020/21 year, including several new social housing proposals in the Derry Parliamentary Constituency.
The Housing Executive is currently formulating the draft Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) for the next 3-year period (2021/22 – 2023/24), which includes further proposals for the East Derry Parliamentary Constituency.
Unfortunately, I can’t be definitive about the exact funding required to meet outstanding housing need in a given geographical area, but the example of the annual figures set out above - £131m to deliver a minimum of 1,850 starts this year – gives a broad indication of the scale of the challenge to address housing need.
iii) Whether she has created a business case to present to the Executive to bid for capital monies to build more required social housing.
In the most recent budget planning exercise, my Department has set out capital requirements for an increase in new social build - in line with the New Decade, New Approach, commitments to “enhance investment in new social and affordable home starts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208501%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311370"}},{"id":"311369","reference":"AQW 8500/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) how many social housing properties were sold through the Right-to-Buy scheme in the previous five years; and (ii) how many new social housing properties were created in the same period.","answerText":"The following table details the number of houses bought by tenants in the housing association sector and those bought by Housing Executive tenants in each of the last 5 years.\n\n2015/16\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nHousing Executive\t387\t402\t436\t448\t448\nHousing Associations\t29\t40\t64\t66\t97\n\nThe table below details the total new social housing completions in each of the last 5 years.\n\n2015/16\t2016/17\t2017/18\t2018/19\t2019/20\nTotal new social housing completions\t1,209\t1,387\t1,507\t1,682\t1,626\n\nPlease note that the above new social housing figures includes all Scheme Types (New Build, Off-the-Shelf, Existing Satisfactory, Rehab etc). The details of the Scheme Types can be found at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/scheme-types.","answerHtml":"The following table details the number of houses bought by tenants in the housing association sector and those bought by Housing Executive tenants in each of the last 5 years.
| 2015/16 | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| Housing Executive | 387 | 402 | 436 | 448 | 448 |
| Housing Associations | 29 | 40 | 64 | 66 | 97 |
The table below details the total new social housing completions in each of the last 5 years.
| 2015/16 | 2016/17 | 2017/18 | 2018/19 | 2019/20 | |
| Total new social housing completions | 1,209 | 1,387 | 1,507 | 1,682 | 1,626 |
Please note that the above new social housing figures includes all Scheme Types (New Build, Off-the-Shelf, Existing Satisfactory, Rehab etc). The details of the Scheme Types can be found at https://www.communities-ni.gov.uk/scheme-types.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208500%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311369"}},{"id":"311368","reference":"AQW 8499/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-09","answerBy":"2020-10-26","answered":"2020-11-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether those returning to Northern Ireland from travel to a country on the quarantine list, and are required to self-isolate for 14 days upon return, are eligible for (i) Statutory Sick Pay; and (ii) Contractual Sick Pay from their employer.","answerText":"Sick pay entitlement varies from job to job as there are different sick pay schemes in operation.\n\n(i) Statutory Sick Pay\n\nStatutory Sick Pay is paid to employees, who are unable to work due to sickness, at a flat rate of £95.85 for up to 28 weeks. In order to qualify for payment an individual must be classed as an employee, have worked for their employer, have been ill for at least 4 days in a row (including non-working days) and earned an average of at least £120 per week. They must report that they are sick in advance of their employer’s deadline or within 7 days if the employer has not set a deadline.\n\nA number of amendments have been made to Statutory Sick Pay in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and these include:\n\n• extending eligibility to those who need to self-isolate for medical reasons to protect others,\n\n• temporary removal of the three day waiting period meaning that where an eligible individual is sick or self-isolating due to COVID-19 Statutory Sick Pay will be available from day one,\n\n• providing for those who have been advised by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well Being that they have had contact with a symptomatic person or who have tested positive for COVID-19, and should therefore stay at home and self-isolate as a result.\n\nNo specific provision has been made for those who have chosen to travel to countries on the quarantine list and who are required to self-isolate on their return home, but depending on their personal circumstances they may be able to claim Universal Credit.\n\nAdditionally, anyone who finds themselves in a crisis situation can apply for financial assistance with short-term living expenses from the Discretionary Support Scheme which is available to employed earners whose income does not exceed £20,404.80 per annum.\n\n(ii) Contractual Sick Pay\n\nMany employers offer Contractual Sick Pay schemes that are more generous than the legal minimum (Statutory Sick Pay). The options available to individuals in these circumstances will depend on the terms of their employment contract.\n\nDetails of an employer’s sick pay entitlement should be included in a written statement of employment particulars. If an employer does not offer a scheme, the written statement should say so.\n\nAn employer can offer any scheme that does not fall below the legal minimum. If an employer does not have a company sick scheme, then an individual will be\n\npaid, if they qualify, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). As highlighted above, this would not include a situation where an individual is self-isolating after entering or returning to the UK and does not need to self-isolate for any other reason.\n\nFurther information on employer responsibilities and employee rights concerning sick pay can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/sick-pay-rights.\n\nEmployees who believe they have been unfairly treated, or their terms of contract breached, may be able to complain to an Industrial Tribunal. Anyone who finds themselves in this position may wish to consider contacting the Labour Relations Agency - Workplace Information Service on 03300 555 300 for confidential and impartial information.\n\nIn addition, the Law Centre NI provides free, independent, specialist legal advice (subject to capacity) on employment rights. The Law Centre can be contacted on their advice line on 028 9024 4401 or by email: employmentadvice@lawcentreni.org.","answerHtml":"Sick pay entitlement varies from job to job as there are different sick pay schemes in operation.
(i) Statutory Sick Pay
Statutory Sick Pay is paid to employees, who are unable to work due to sickness, at a flat rate of £95.85 for up to 28 weeks. In order to qualify for payment an individual must be classed as an employee, have worked for their employer, have been ill for at least 4 days in a row (including non-working days) and earned an average of at least £120 per week. They must report that they are sick in advance of their employer’s deadline or within 7 days if the employer has not set a deadline.
A number of amendments have been made to Statutory Sick Pay in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and these include:
• extending eligibility to those who need to self-isolate for medical reasons to protect others,
• temporary removal of the three day waiting period meaning that where an eligible individual is sick or self-isolating due to COVID-19 Statutory Sick Pay will be available from day one,
• providing for those who have been advised by the Regional Agency for Public Health and Social Well Being that they have had contact with a symptomatic person or who have tested positive for COVID-19, and should therefore stay at home and self-isolate as a result.
No specific provision has been made for those who have chosen to travel to countries on the quarantine list and who are required to self-isolate on their return home, but depending on their personal circumstances they may be able to claim Universal Credit.
Additionally, anyone who finds themselves in a crisis situation can apply for financial assistance with short-term living expenses from the Discretionary Support Scheme which is available to employed earners whose income does not exceed £20,404.80 per annum.
(ii) Contractual Sick Pay
Many employers offer Contractual Sick Pay schemes that are more generous than the legal minimum (Statutory Sick Pay). The options available to individuals in these circumstances will depend on the terms of their employment contract.
Details of an employer’s sick pay entitlement should be included in a written statement of employment particulars. If an employer does not offer a scheme, the written statement should say so.
An employer can offer any scheme that does not fall below the legal minimum. If an employer does not have a company sick scheme, then an individual will be
paid, if they qualify, Statutory Sick Pay (SSP). As highlighted above, this would not include a situation where an individual is self-isolating after entering or returning to the UK and does not need to self-isolate for any other reason.
Further information on employer responsibilities and employee rights concerning sick pay can be found at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/sick-pay-rights.
Employees who believe they have been unfairly treated, or their terms of contract breached, may be able to complain to an Industrial Tribunal. Anyone who finds themselves in this position may wish to consider contacting the Labour Relations Agency - Workplace Information Service on 03300 555 300 for confidential and impartial information.
In addition, the Law Centre NI provides free, independent, specialist legal advice (subject to capacity) on employment rights. The Law Centre can be contacted on their advice line on 028 9024 4401 or by email: employmentadvice@lawcentreni.org.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208499%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311368"}},{"id":"313675","reference":"AQO 949/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-08","answerBy":"2020-10-20","answered":"2020-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how many cancer patients awaiting treatment in each Health and Social Care Trust have had appointments cancelled in since March 2020.","answerText":"The information regarding how many cancer patients awaiting treatment in each Health and Social Care Trust have had appointments cancelled since March 2020 is not centrally available.\n\nI can say that, in relation to appointments, between 18th March 2020 and 13th October 2020, there were 14 confirmed cancer and a further 2,970 red flag suspect cancer cancellations in relation to elective inpatient, day case and regular attender appointments.\n\nWhile most cancer diagnostics continued throughout the surge period, measures put in place to ensure patient safety in the context of COVID inevitably impacted capacity and, when compounded with patient reluctance to attend hospital for diagnostic appointments, has led to an increased back log.\n\nOne of my primary aims in the difficult weeks ahead will be to ensure the continued delivery high quality diagnosis and cancer services, in COVID-19 safe spaces and using the independent sector hospitals where appropriate, providing of course it is safe to do so.\n\nHowever, we should be under no illusions that these are challenging times. Services are already coming under pressure and as the number of COVID positive in-patients increases, this will have a negative impact on our ability to maintain other services.","answerHtml":"The information regarding how many cancer patients awaiting treatment in each Health and Social Care Trust have had appointments cancelled since March 2020 is not centrally available.
I can say that, in relation to appointments, between 18th March 2020 and 13th October 2020, there were 14 confirmed cancer and a further 2,970 red flag suspect cancer cancellations in relation to elective inpatient, day case and regular attender appointments.
While most cancer diagnostics continued throughout the surge period, measures put in place to ensure patient safety in the context of COVID inevitably impacted capacity and, when compounded with patient reluctance to attend hospital for diagnostic appointments, has led to an increased back log.
One of my primary aims in the difficult weeks ahead will be to ensure the continued delivery high quality diagnosis and cancer services, in COVID-19 safe spaces and using the independent sector hospitals where appropriate, providing of course it is safe to do so.
However, we should be under no illusions that these are challenging times. Services are already coming under pressure and as the number of COVID positive in-patients increases, this will have a negative impact on our ability to maintain other services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20949%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=313675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=313675"}},{"id":"311048","reference":"AQW 8337/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to detail the challenges in implementing The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (NI) 2011; (ii) whether she will advise clubs to use an auditor for account preparation rather than the independent examiner method; and (iii) for her assessment of advice given to clubs by the PSNI that they should use the independent examiner method.","answerText":"The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 contained 19 sections.\n\nSections 5, 11 and 12 of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 have yet to be commenced.\n\nIn respect of Sections 5 and 11, the Department decided not to invoke its power to make regulations as it has not found it necessary to do so, whilst work is ongoing to commence Section 12 of the Act.\n\nii Currently all registered clubs must conduct their accounting requirements in accordance with Article 40 of the Registration of Clubs (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 and the Registration of Clubs (Accounts) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997. Therefore, current legislation does not permit any club to use an independent examiner to carry out accounts preparation. It is only a qualified auditor who is permitted to audit an annual statement of accounts for a registered club.\n\nHowever, the new accounts regulations and guidance which will revoke the 1997 Accounts Regulations will set out:\n\nthe documents with respect to transactions, assets and liabilities which a club is required to keep;\n\nthe manner in which such documents must be kept;\n\nthe system of control of accounts, cash holdings, receipts and remittances which a club must establish and maintain;\n\nthe need for a club to complete and the form of and particulars to be contained in, and the annual statement of accounts;\n\nthe need to have its accounts audited, who may conduct that audit and the manner in which an audit should be conducted; and\n\nthe need to have its accounts examined by an independent examiner, who may be selected as an independent examiner and the manner in which an independent examination should be conducted.\n\niii My officials are continuing to work closely with the PSNI and it is hoped that Section 12 of the Act will come into operation on 1 April 2021 to coincide with the start of the new financial year. Current legislation does not permit any club to use an independent examiner to carry out accounts preparation.\n\nMy officials are currently drafting new accounts regulations, which will make some easements to the accounting requirements of clubs along with associated guidance and a frequently asked questions guide in order to assist registered clubs with the new accounting procedures. It is envisaged that these regulations will come into force before April 2021.","answerHtml":"The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 contained 19 sections.
Sections 5, 11 and 12 of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 have yet to be commenced.
In respect of Sections 5 and 11, the Department decided not to invoke its power to make regulations as it has not found it necessary to do so, whilst work is ongoing to commence Section 12 of the Act.
ii Currently all registered clubs must conduct their accounting requirements in accordance with Article 40 of the Registration of Clubs (Northern Ireland) Order 1996 and the Registration of Clubs (Accounts) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 1997. Therefore, current legislation does not permit any club to use an independent examiner to carry out accounts preparation. It is only a qualified auditor who is permitted to audit an annual statement of accounts for a registered club.
However, the new accounts regulations and guidance which will revoke the 1997 Accounts Regulations will set out:
the documents with respect to transactions, assets and liabilities which a club is required to keep;
the manner in which such documents must be kept;
the system of control of accounts, cash holdings, receipts and remittances which a club must establish and maintain;
the need for a club to complete and the form of and particulars to be contained in, and the annual statement of accounts;
the need to have its accounts audited, who may conduct that audit and the manner in which an audit should be conducted; and
the need to have its accounts examined by an independent examiner, who may be selected as an independent examiner and the manner in which an independent examination should be conducted.
iii My officials are continuing to work closely with the PSNI and it is hoped that Section 12 of the Act will come into operation on 1 April 2021 to coincide with the start of the new financial year. Current legislation does not permit any club to use an independent examiner to carry out accounts preparation.
My officials are currently drafting new accounts regulations, which will make some easements to the accounting requirements of clubs along with associated guidance and a frequently asked questions guide in order to assist registered clubs with the new accounting procedures. It is envisaged that these regulations will come into force before April 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208337%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311048","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311048"}},{"id":"311047","reference":"AQW 8336/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for an update on the implementation of the Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act (NI) 2011.","answerText":"The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act 2011 contains 19 sections and 4 Schedules which amended, and in some places replaced, existing provisions of the Licensing Order 1996 (the Licensing Order) and the Registration of Clubs Order 1996 (the Clubs Order).\n\nTo date the following Sections of the Act have been commenced:\n\nSections 1 and 7 which made provision for Closure Orders in licensed premises and clubs were both commenced on 10 December 2012;\n\nSections 2 and 8 which made provision for attributing penalty points to licensed premises and clubs regarding offences were both commenced on 1 May 2012;\n\nSections 3 and 9 which made provision for a statutory ‘Proof of Age’ scheme in licensed premises and clubs were both commenced on 1 May 2012;\n\nSections 4 and 10 which made provision for the prohibiting or restricting of certain Irresponsible Drinks Promotions through Regulations were both partially commenced on 1 January 2013;\n\nSection 6 which clarified how the Order applied to limited liability partnerships in licensed premises was commenced on 1 May 2012;\n\nSection 13 which made provision for increased authorisations for special occasions in clubs was commenced on 1 March 2012; and\n\nSection 14 which made provision for a change of time a young person under 18 years of age can be in a club which has a bar.\n\nSections not yet commenced are:\n\nSection 5 which provides a power for the Department to make regulations to prohibit or restrict the varying of the price at which intoxicating liquor is sold in licensed premises for specified periods and also provides for the Department to restrict, also by regulations, price discounts where two or more intoxicating liquor products are sold as a package on licensed premises;\n\nSection 11 which provides a power for the Department to make regulations to prohibit or restrict the varying of the price at which intoxicating liquor is sold for limited periods in clubs; and\n\nSection 12 which provides a power for the Department to make regulations and guidance which will make accounting requirements in clubs more flexible. Work is currently ongoing to have these regulations commenced from 1 April 2021 in order to coincide with the new financial year.","answerHtml":"The Licensing and Registration of Clubs (Amendment) Act 2011 contains 19 sections and 4 Schedules which amended, and in some places replaced, existing provisions of the Licensing Order 1996 (the Licensing Order) and the Registration of Clubs Order 1996 (the Clubs Order).
To date the following Sections of the Act have been commenced:
Sections 1 and 7 which made provision for Closure Orders in licensed premises and clubs were both commenced on 10 December 2012;
Sections 2 and 8 which made provision for attributing penalty points to licensed premises and clubs regarding offences were both commenced on 1 May 2012;
Sections 3 and 9 which made provision for a statutory ‘Proof of Age’ scheme in licensed premises and clubs were both commenced on 1 May 2012;
Sections 4 and 10 which made provision for the prohibiting or restricting of certain Irresponsible Drinks Promotions through Regulations were both partially commenced on 1 January 2013;
Section 6 which clarified how the Order applied to limited liability partnerships in licensed premises was commenced on 1 May 2012;
Section 13 which made provision for increased authorisations for special occasions in clubs was commenced on 1 March 2012; and
Section 14 which made provision for a change of time a young person under 18 years of age can be in a club which has a bar.
Sections not yet commenced are:
Section 5 which provides a power for the Department to make regulations to prohibit or restrict the varying of the price at which intoxicating liquor is sold in licensed premises for specified periods and also provides for the Department to restrict, also by regulations, price discounts where two or more intoxicating liquor products are sold as a package on licensed premises;
Section 11 which provides a power for the Department to make regulations to prohibit or restrict the varying of the price at which intoxicating liquor is sold for limited periods in clubs; and
Section 12 which provides a power for the Department to make regulations and guidance which will make accounting requirements in clubs more flexible. Work is currently ongoing to have these regulations commenced from 1 April 2021 in order to coincide with the new financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208336%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311047","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311047"}},{"id":"311046","reference":"AQW 8335/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure how much of the recently announced £15 million being given to NI Water to upgrade sewers, waste water treatment work and pumping stations will be going to the Limavady area.","answerText":"The recently announced additional £15 million funding was allocated to NI Water to accelerate specifically named and planned projects which had been deferred or delayed this year due to the mandatory cessation and change of many business activities during the ongoing Covid pandemic.\n\nWhile this funding was not specifically intended to be used for wastewater treatment works in Limavady, I am advised that NI Water has planned a wastewater system upgrade for the Limavady area, to be taken forward during the next Regulatory Price Control period, PC21 (2021-27). As part of this undertaking, £63k will fund project preparation work during 2020/21. I should note however that certainty for this opportunity to improve the Limavady wastewater network, will depend on NI Water being fully funded for PC21.","answerHtml":"The recently announced additional £15 million funding was allocated to NI Water to accelerate specifically named and planned projects which had been deferred or delayed this year due to the mandatory cessation and change of many business activities during the ongoing Covid pandemic.
While this funding was not specifically intended to be used for wastewater treatment works in Limavady, I am advised that NI Water has planned a wastewater system upgrade for the Limavady area, to be taken forward during the next Regulatory Price Control period, PC21 (2021-27). As part of this undertaking, £63k will fund project preparation work during 2020/21. I should note however that certainty for this opportunity to improve the Limavady wastewater network, will depend on NI Water being fully funded for PC21.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208335%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311046","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311046"}},{"id":"311045","reference":"AQW 8334/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department has reassured cancer patients, concerned about exposure to COVID-19, that they should attend appointments in hospital.","answerText":"Throughout the pandemic, in response to concerns about the potential for exposure to COVID-19, my Department has tried to reassure cancer patients to attend hospital appointments through the publication of press releases, e-zines and factsheets and through promotions and videos by GPs reaching wide audiences across social media platforms.\n\nFurthermore all Health and Social Care Trusts follow current infection control procedures including appropriate use of personal protective equipment, hand hygiene and environmental cleaning. All patients who require admission to hospital will continue to be screened through the mandatory screening programme of testing before admission.","answerHtml":"Throughout the pandemic, in response to concerns about the potential for exposure to COVID-19, my Department has tried to reassure cancer patients to attend hospital appointments through the publication of press releases, e-zines and factsheets and through promotions and videos by GPs reaching wide audiences across social media platforms.
Furthermore all Health and Social Care Trusts follow current infection control procedures including appropriate use of personal protective equipment, hand hygiene and environmental cleaning. All patients who require admission to hospital will continue to be screened through the mandatory screening programme of testing before admission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208334%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311045","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311045"}},{"id":"311044","reference":"AQW 8333/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-07","answerBy":"2020-10-22","answered":"2020-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for his assessment of the recent figures from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust regarding the 14-day waiting time targets for patients to see a breast cancer specialist following an urgent referral for suspected cancer; (ii) to detail the reasons for these figures; and (iii) how he plans to improve these waiting times.","answerText":"Whilst I was disappointed by the most recently published cancer waiting time figures (April-June 2020) regarding the 14-day target for breast cancer assessment in the Northern Trust, I note that all patients diagnosed with breast cancer had their surgery in a timely fashion and within the 31-day treatment target. The delay in providing timely assessment within the 14-day target was mainly due to the initial impact of hygiene and social distancing restrictions and the need to divert resources to meet the challenge of COVID-19. The breast assessment service has been stabilised within the Trust with the appointment of an additional breast surgeon in September 2020.\n\nFurthermore, in June of this year I established a Cancer Services Rebuilding Cell to oversee the resumption of cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment in clinically safe environments as quickly as possible, and to protect these services as much as possible throughout the pandemic, taking into account existing capacity constraints and the ongoing threat of COVID-19. I published a policy statement on 7 October 2020 setting out my Department’s approach to Rebuilding and Stabilisation of Cancer Services, including stabilisation plans for oncology and haematology, and cancer services rebuild plans. Details are available on my Department’s website.\n\nAs we continue to stabilise and rebuild services in these challenging circumstances it is important to note that all patients are treated according to clinical priority, as determined by specialist clinicians. One of my primary aims is to ensure the continued delivery of high quality cancer services, provided of course that it is safe to do so.","answerHtml":"Whilst I was disappointed by the most recently published cancer waiting time figures (April-June 2020) regarding the 14-day target for breast cancer assessment in the Northern Trust, I note that all patients diagnosed with breast cancer had their surgery in a timely fashion and within the 31-day treatment target. The delay in providing timely assessment within the 14-day target was mainly due to the initial impact of hygiene and social distancing restrictions and the need to divert resources to meet the challenge of COVID-19. The breast assessment service has been stabilised within the Trust with the appointment of an additional breast surgeon in September 2020.
Furthermore, in June of this year I established a Cancer Services Rebuilding Cell to oversee the resumption of cancer screening, diagnosis and treatment in clinically safe environments as quickly as possible, and to protect these services as much as possible throughout the pandemic, taking into account existing capacity constraints and the ongoing threat of COVID-19. I published a policy statement on 7 October 2020 setting out my Department’s approach to Rebuilding and Stabilisation of Cancer Services, including stabilisation plans for oncology and haematology, and cancer services rebuild plans. Details are available on my Department’s website.
As we continue to stabilise and rebuild services in these challenging circumstances it is important to note that all patients are treated according to clinical priority, as determined by specialist clinicians. One of my primary aims is to ensure the continued delivery of high quality cancer services, provided of course that it is safe to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208333%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311044","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311044"}},{"id":"310820","reference":"AQW 8215/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-06","answerBy":"2020-10-21","answered":"2020-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail those who continue to be reported missing by the PSNI, broken down by (i) age range; (ii) gender; and (iii) nationality.","answerText":"The recording of cases and the associated statistics relating to missing persons is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The recording of cases and the associated statistics relating to missing persons is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208215%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310820"}},{"id":"310819","reference":"AQW 8214/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-06","answerBy":"2020-10-21","answered":"2020-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what percentage of those reported as a missing person in the last five years, was known to have concerns relating (i) mental health; (ii) addiction; (iii) learning disability; (iv) autism/ASD; and (v) domestic abuse at the point they were reported missing.","answerText":"The recording of cases and the associated statistics relating to missing persons is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The recording of cases and the associated statistics relating to missing persons is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208214%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310819"}},{"id":"310818","reference":"AQW 8213/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-06","answerBy":"2020-10-21","answered":"2020-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) to detail how (a) the PSNI; and (b) other public services determine the level of risk of an individual reported missing; and (ii) how resources are applied when pursuing a missing person report of a particular level of assessed risk.","answerText":"The determination of the level of risk of a missing person and application of the corresponding resources when pursuing a missing person are both operational matters for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB). I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the NIPB. You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.\n\nYou may also wish to direct your queries regarding other public services to the relevant organisations.","answerHtml":"The determination of the level of risk of a missing person and application of the corresponding resources when pursuing a missing person are both operational matters for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board (NIPB). I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the NIPB. You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
You may also wish to direct your queries regarding other public services to the relevant organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208213%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310818"}},{"id":"310817","reference":"AQW 8212/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-06","answerBy":"2020-10-21","answered":"2020-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the process conducted by public services when a person is reported missing to the PSNI.","answerText":"I would refer the Member to my answer to AQW 8213/17-22.","answerHtml":"I would refer the Member to my answer to AQW 8213/17-22.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208212%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310817"}},{"id":"310816","reference":"AQW 8211/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-10-06","answerBy":"2020-10-21","answered":"2020-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of missing person cases opened by the PSNI in the previous ten years, broken down by (i) those found; (ii) those remaining missing ; and (iii) those found to be deceased.","answerText":"The recording of cases and the associated statistics relating to missing persons is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.\n\nYou may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.","answerHtml":"The recording of cases and the associated statistics relating to missing persons is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Northern Ireland Policing Board.
You may, therefore, wish to direct your question to the PSNI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%208211%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310816"}},{"id":"309668","reference":"AQW 7705/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) for an update of her review into the Personal Injury Discount Rate; and (ii) when a new rate will be set.","answerText":"Owing to a conflict of interest arising from my husband’s membership of a medical defence union, I have delegated key decisions in relation to the personal injury discount rate to my Permanent Secretary. The responses of the statutory consultees are presently being considered and I expect the outcome of the review to be communicated to stakeholders by the end of October.","answerHtml":"Owing to a conflict of interest arising from my husband’s membership of a medical defence union, I have delegated key decisions in relation to the personal injury discount rate to my Permanent Secretary. The responses of the statutory consultees are presently being considered and I expect the outcome of the review to be communicated to stakeholders by the end of October.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207705%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309668"}},{"id":"309667","reference":"AQW 7704/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance, pursuant to AQW 7017/17-22, (i) why only one grant could be paid in respect of each qualifying property if more than one business operated in that property; and (ii) how Land Property and Property Services determine which businesses in each qualifying property was paid the grant.","answerText":"This policy was set by the Department for the Economy (DfE).\n\nIn line with the policy guidance from DfE, LPS paid the grant to the named ratepayer on the rate account where more than one business occupied the property.","answerHtml":"This policy was set by the Department for the Economy (DfE).
In line with the policy guidance from DfE, LPS paid the grant to the named ratepayer on the rate account where more than one business occupied the property.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207704%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309667"}},{"id":"309666","reference":"AQW 7703/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he plans to work with the Minister for the Economy to develop a hemp industry in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My officials met with members of the Northern Ireland Hemp Association on 14 February 2020 and provided them with advice on the ways my Department can assist this sector. This included signposting potential support under the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, and information on the services that DAERA’s College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute provide that could benefit the industry. In June 2020, CAFRE provided some further information to the Northern Ireland Hemp Association.\n\nI am also aware that my officials have had engagement with the work that Invest NI has been doing to look at the economic potential of industrial hemp.\n\nAt present, I have no plans to engage with the Minister for the Economy about the hemp industry in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My officials met with members of the Northern Ireland Hemp Association on 14 February 2020 and provided them with advice on the ways my Department can assist this sector. This included signposting potential support under the Northern Ireland Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, and information on the services that DAERA’s College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) and the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute provide that could benefit the industry. In June 2020, CAFRE provided some further information to the Northern Ireland Hemp Association.
I am also aware that my officials have had engagement with the work that Invest NI has been doing to look at the economic potential of industrial hemp.
At present, I have no plans to engage with the Minister for the Economy about the hemp industry in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207703%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309666","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309666"}},{"id":"309665","reference":"AQW 7702/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how she is supporting people in receipt of housing benefit to pay domestic rates who lost their income due to COVID-19 after their rates bill had been issued.","answerText":"Land & Property Services (LPS) administer Housing Benefit (Rates) on behalf of the Department for Communities in accordance with The Housing Benefit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 for ratepayers who own and occupy domestic properties.\n\nThe administration of Housing Benefit (Rates) is subject to means assessments that take into consideration changes in earnings on a regular basis. LPS also administer Low Income Rate Relief as additional support to homeowners whose circumstances mean they are unable to obtain full relief from Rates through Housing Benefit by offering a more generous thresholds on savings and income taper.\n\nThose in receipt of Housing Benefit (Rates) should notify LPS of changes in circumstances as soon as possible. LPS is willing to discuss alternative payment options for ratepayers in receipt of Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief where they remain liable for any shortfall in liability not covered by a rate relief scheme.","answerHtml":"Land & Property Services (LPS) administer Housing Benefit (Rates) on behalf of the Department for Communities in accordance with The Housing Benefit Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2006 for ratepayers who own and occupy domestic properties.
The administration of Housing Benefit (Rates) is subject to means assessments that take into consideration changes in earnings on a regular basis. LPS also administer Low Income Rate Relief as additional support to homeowners whose circumstances mean they are unable to obtain full relief from Rates through Housing Benefit by offering a more generous thresholds on savings and income taper.
Those in receipt of Housing Benefit (Rates) should notify LPS of changes in circumstances as soon as possible. LPS is willing to discuss alternative payment options for ratepayers in receipt of Housing Benefit (Rates) and Low Income Rate Relief where they remain liable for any shortfall in liability not covered by a rate relief scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207702%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309665","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309665"}},{"id":"309664","reference":"AQW 7701/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-28","answerBy":"2020-10-13","answered":"2020-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy for a breakdown by (i) ward area; and (ii) parliamentary constituency of the location of the 80,000 rural homes set to benefit from the proposed £165 million superfast broadband roll-out.","answerText":"At this stage of the procurement it is not possible to confirm which premises will benefit from Project Stratum. The precise number and location of premises to benefit from this intervention will be confirmed following contract award. The answers below relate to premises identified as eligible to benefit following an Open Market Review (OMR) and State aid public consultation. There are 78,750 eligible premises across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe breakdown by ward is shown below.\n\nConstituency\tWard\tEligible Premises\nBelfast East\tBallyhanwood\t132\nBelfast East\tCarrowreagh\t43\nBelfast East\tDundonald\t57\nBelfast East\tGarnerville\t3\nBelfast East\tGilnahirk\t5\nBelfast East\tHillfoot\t1\nBelfast East\tMerok\t3\nBelfast East\tStormont\t19\nBelfast North\tBurnthill\t3\nBelfast North\tCollinbridge\t1\nBelfast North\tGlengormley\t3\nBelfast North\tLegoniel\t64\nBelfast North\tValley\t37\nBelfast South\tBeechill\t87\nBelfast South\tCairnshill\t2\nBelfast South\tCarryduff East\t3\nBelfast South\tCarryduff West\t9\nBelfast South\tCregagh\t2\nBelfast South\tFinaghy\t4\nBelfast South\tHillfoot\t3\nBelfast South\tKnockbracken\t3\nBelfast South\tUpper Malone\t9\nBelfast West\tBallygomartin\t4\nBelfast West\tCollin Glen\t6\nBelfast West\tPoleglass\t22\nBelfast West\tStonyford\t51\nBelfast West\tTurf Lodge\t11\nEast Antrim\tAbbey\t8\nEast Antrim\tBallycarry And Glynn\t140\nEast Antrim\tCairncastle\t189\nEast Antrim\tCarnlough And Glenarm\t385\nEast Antrim\tCastle\t1\nEast Antrim\tGardenmore\t16\nEast Antrim\tGlenwhirry\t39\nEast Antrim\tGreenisland\t1\nEast Antrim\tIslandmagee\t113\nEast Antrim\tKilroot\t36\nEast Antrim\tKilwaughter\t134\nEast Antrim\tLurigethan\t266\nEast Antrim\tRostulla\t242\nEast Antrim\tSlemish\t21\nEast Antrim\tThe Maidens\t15\nEast Antrim\tTorr Head And Rathlin\t222\nEast Antrim\tVictoria\t33\nEast Antrim\tWhitehead South\t17\nEast Antrim\tWoodburn\t78\nEast Londonderry\tAghadowey\t508\nEast Londonderry\tAltahullion\t36\nEast Londonderry\tAtlantic\t160\nEast Londonderry\tBallykelly\t35\nEast Londonderry\tCastlerock\t64\nEast Londonderry\tChurchland\t1\nEast Londonderry\tClaudy\t46\nEast Londonderry\tDrumsurn\t24\nEast Londonderry\tDundooan\t455\nEast Londonderry\tDungiven\t39\nEast Londonderry\tFeeny\t28\nEast Londonderry\tGarvagh\t388\nEast Londonderry\tGreysteel\t37\nEast Londonderry\tHopefield\t2\nEast Londonderry\tKilrea\t510\nEast Londonderry\tMacosquin\t453\nEast Londonderry\tMagilligan\t109\nEast Londonderry\tPark\t59\nEast Londonderry\tPortrush And Dunluce\t70\nEast Londonderry\tPortstewart\t18\nEast Londonderry\tQuarry\t2\nEast Londonderry\tUniversity\t5\nEast Londonderry\tWindy Hall\t19\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tAugher And Clogher\t515\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tAughnacloy\t482\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBallinamallard\t268\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBallygawley\t424\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBallysaggart\t11\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBelcoo And Garrison\t572\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBelleek And Boa\t674\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBoho Cleenish And Letterbreen\t609\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tBrookeborough\t567\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tCaledon\t653\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tCastlecaulfield\t235\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tCastlecoole\t28\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tDerrygonnelly\t603\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tDerrylin\t546\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tDonagh\t593\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tEderney And Kesh\t358\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tErne\t5\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tFivemiletown\t605\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tFlorence Court And Kinawley\t721\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tIrvinestown\t336\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tKillyman\t285\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tKillymeal\t42\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tLisbellaw\t323\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tLisnarrick\t400\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tLoughgall\t30\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tMaguiresbridge\t718\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tMoy\t255\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tMoygashel\t60\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tMullaghmore\t108\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tNewtownbutler\t523\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tPortora\t9\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tRosslea\t537\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tRossorry\t58\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tTempo\t593\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\tThe Birches\t95\nFoyle\tBallymagroarty\t1\nFoyle\tEglinton\t10\nFoyle\tEnagh\t46\nFoyle\tNew Buildings\t2\nFoyle\tSheriff's Mountain\t12\nFoyle\tSlievekirk\t32\nLagan Valley\tBallinderry\t201\nLagan Valley\tBallymacbrennan\t329\nLagan Valley\tBallymacoss\t7\nLagan Valley\tBallyward\t44\nLagan Valley\tBelvoir\t2\nLagan Valley\tBlaris\t64\nLagan Valley\tDonaghcloney\t35\nLagan Valley\tDromara\t357\nLagan Valley\tDromore\t54\nLagan Valley\tDrumbo\t166\nLagan Valley\tDunmurry\t2\nLagan Valley\tGransha\t402\nLagan Valley\tHarmony Hill\t50\nLagan Valley\tHilden\t7\nLagan Valley\tHillhall\t48\nLagan Valley\tHillsborough\t157\nLagan Valley\tKnockmore\t10\nLagan Valley\tLagan\t351\nLagan Valley\tLambeg\t13\nLagan Valley\tLisnagarvey\t2\nLagan Valley\tMaghaberry\t243\nLagan Valley\tMagheralave\t6\nLagan Valley\tMaze\t117\nLagan Valley\tMoira\t4\nLagan Valley\tQuilly\t448\nLagan Valley\tRavernet\t302\nLagan Valley\tStonyford\t134\nLagan Valley\tWallace Park\t30\nLagan Valley\tWhite Mountain\t155\nMid Ulster\tArdboe\t388\nMid Ulster\tBallygawley\t89\nMid Ulster\tBallymaguigan\t341\nMid Ulster\tBellaghy\t304\nMid Ulster\tCastlecaulfield\t130\nMid Ulster\tCastledawson\t257\nMid Ulster\tCoagh\t233\nMid Ulster\tCoalisland North\t142\nMid Ulster\tCoalisland South\t4\nMid Ulster\tCookstown East\t56\nMid Ulster\tCookstown South\t5\nMid Ulster\tCookstown West\t6\nMid Ulster\tCoolshinny\t512\nMid Ulster\tDonaghmore\t514\nMid Ulster\tDraperstown\t246\nMid Ulster\tGlebe\t10\nMid Ulster\tKillyman\t51\nMid Ulster\tKillymeal\t13\nMid Ulster\tLissan\t527\nMid Ulster\tLoughry\t150\nMid Ulster\tLower Glenshane\t474\nMid Ulster\tMaghera\t4\nMid Ulster\tOaklands\t680\nMid Ulster\tPomeroy\t606\nMid Ulster\tStewartstown\t466\nMid Ulster\tSwatragh\t515\nMid Ulster\tTamlaght O'crilly\t458\nMid Ulster\tThe Loup\t486\nMid Ulster\tTobermore\t582\nMid Ulster\tTown Parks East\t7\nMid Ulster\tValley\t347\nMid Ulster\tWashing Bay\t365\nNewry And Armagh\tAbbey\t14\nNewry And Armagh\tBallybot\t1\nNewry And Armagh\tBessbrook\t3\nNewry And Armagh\tBlackwatertown\t821\nNewry And Armagh\tCamlough\t292\nNewry And Armagh\tCathedral\t4\nNewry And Armagh\tCrossmaglen\t305\nNewry And Armagh\tDamolly\t17\nNewry And Armagh\tDemesne\t24\nNewry And Armagh\tDrumalane\t7\nNewry And Armagh\tFathom\t435\nNewry And Armagh\tForkhill\t347\nNewry And Armagh\tHamiltonsbawn\t716\nNewry And Armagh\tKeady\t496\nNewry And Armagh\tLoughbrickland\t68\nNewry And Armagh\tLoughgall\t447\nNewry And Armagh\tMahon\t47\nNewry And Armagh\tMarkethill\t738\nNewry And Armagh\tMayobridge\t11\nNewry And Armagh\tMullaghbane\t335\nNewry And Armagh\tNavan\t733\nNewry And Armagh\tNewtownhamilton\t686\nNewry And Armagh\tRichhill\t324\nNewry And Armagh\tSeagahan\t775\nNewry And Armagh\tSt. Patrick's\t3\nNewry And Armagh\tTandragee\t42\nNewry And Armagh\tThe Mall\t29\nNewry And Armagh\tWhitecross\t607\nNorth Antrim\tAcademy\t19\nNorth Antrim\tAhoghill\t20\nNorth Antrim\tArdeevin\t1\nNorth Antrim\tBallee And Harryville\t4\nNorth Antrim\tBallymoney East\t1\nNorth Antrim\tBallymoney North\t1\nNorth Antrim\tBallymoney South\t50\nNorth Antrim\tBraidwater\t5\nNorth Antrim\tBroughshane\t96\nNorth Antrim\tCastle Demesne\t66\nNorth Antrim\tClogh Mills\t247\nNorth Antrim\tCullybackey\t20\nNorth Antrim\tDervock\t249\nNorth Antrim\tDunloy\t437\nNorth Antrim\tFair Green\t2\nNorth Antrim\tGalgorm\t62\nNorth Antrim\tGiant's Causeway\t183\nNorth Antrim\tGlenravel\t367\nNorth Antrim\tGlenwhirry\t454\nNorth Antrim\tGrange\t653\nNorth Antrim\tKells\t132\nNorth Antrim\tKinbane\t493\nNorth Antrim\tKirkinriola\t365\nNorth Antrim\tLoughguile And Stranocum\t412\nNorth Antrim\tMaine\t440\nNorth Antrim\tPortglenone\t316\nNorth Antrim\tRasharkin\t451\nNorth Antrim\tRoute\t190\nNorth Antrim\tSlemish\t648\nNorth Antrim\tTorr Head And Rathlin\t389\nNorth Down\tBallygrainey\t51\nNorth Down\tBroadway\t1\nNorth Down\tClandeboye\t72\nNorth Down\tCultra\t197\nNorth Down\tGroomsport\t125\nNorth Down\tHarbour\t1\nNorth Down\tHelen's Bay\t81\nNorth Down\tHolywood\t26\nNorth Down\tKilcooley\t1\nNorth Down\tLoughries\t117\nNorth Down\tLoughview\t15\nNorth Down\tWarren\t141\nSouth Antrim\tAldergrove\t557\nSouth Antrim\tAntrim Centre\t28\nSouth Antrim\tBallynure\t103\nSouth Antrim\tBallyrobert\t96\nSouth Antrim\tBurnthill\t2\nSouth Antrim\tClady\t465\nSouth Antrim\tCranfield\t584\nSouth Antrim\tCrumlin\t28\nSouth Antrim\tDoagh\t51\nSouth Antrim\tFountain Hill\t68\nSouth Antrim\tGlenavy\t215\nSouth Antrim\tGreystone\t106\nSouth Antrim\tHightown\t3\nSouth Antrim\tJordanstown\t21\nSouth Antrim\tMallusk\t78\nSouth Antrim\tMossley\t28\nSouth Antrim\tParkgate\t648\nSouth Antrim\tRandalstown\t263\nSouth Antrim\tShilvodan\t727\nSouth Antrim\tSpringfarm\t17\nSouth Antrim\tSteeple\t32\nSouth Antrim\tStiles\t67\nSouth Antrim\tStonyford\t363\nSouth Antrim\tTemplepatrick\t280\nSouth Antrim\tToome\t519\nSouth Down\tAnnalong\t445\nSouth Down\tBallydugan\t601\nSouth Down\tBallyward\t1,038\nSouth Down\tBanbridge East\t257\nSouth Down\tBinnian\t363\nSouth Down\tBurren\t193\nSouth Down\tCastlewellan\t238\nSouth Down\tCathedral\t48\nSouth Down\tCrossgar And Killyleagh\t53\nSouth Down\tDerryleckagh\t234\nSouth Down\tDonard\t43\nSouth Down\tDromara\t6\nSouth Down\tDrumaness\t285\nSouth Down\tDundrum\t339\nSouth Down\tGransha\t247\nSouth Down\tHilltown\t584\nSouth Down\tKilkeel\t35\nSouth Down\tKnocknashinna\t9\nSouth Down\tLecale\t356\nSouth Down\tLisnacree\t650\nSouth Down\tLoughbrickland\t321\nSouth Down\tMayobridge\t551\nSouth Down\tMurlough\t55\nSouth Down\tQuoile\t282\nSouth Down\tRathfriland\t481\nSouth Down\tRostrevor\t175\nSouth Down\tStrangford\t596\nSouth Down\tTollymore\t718\nSouth Down\tWarrenpoint\t8\nStrangford\tBallygowan\t274\nStrangford\tBallygrainey\t3\nStrangford\tBallywalter\t289\nStrangford\tBallyward\t1\nStrangford\tCarrowdore\t465\nStrangford\tCarryduff East\t119\nStrangford\tComber North\t38\nStrangford\tComber South\t236\nStrangford\tComber West\t36\nStrangford\tConway Square\t8\nStrangford\tCrossgar And Killyleagh\t12\nStrangford\tDerryboy\t486\nStrangford\tGlen\t16\nStrangford\tKillinchy\t444\nStrangford\tKilmore\t524\nStrangford\tKircubbin\t379\nStrangford\tLoughries\t148\nStrangford\tMoneyreagh\t157\nStrangford\tMovilla\t1\nStrangford\tPortaferry\t312\nStrangford\tPortavogie\t130\nStrangford\tSaintfield\t97\nStrangford\tScrabo\t159\nStrangford\tWest Winds\t9\nUpper Bann\tAghagallon\t348\nUpper Bann\tBallybay\t31\nUpper Bann\tBanbridge East\t52\nUpper Bann\tBanbridge North\t27\nUpper Bann\tBanbridge South\t2\nUpper Bann\tBleary\t194\nUpper Bann\tBrownlow\t1\nUpper Bann\tCraigavon Centre\t76\nUpper Bann\tDerrytrasna\t157\nUpper Bann\tDonaghcloney\t375\nUpper Bann\tGilford\t348\nUpper Bann\tKernan\t30\nUpper Bann\tLagan\t1\nUpper Bann\tLough Road\t4\nUpper Bann\tLoughbrickland\t320\nUpper Bann\tMagheralin\t166\nUpper Bann\tMahon\t140\nUpper Bann\tMourneview\t3\nUpper Bann\tParklake\t2\nUpper Bann\tThe Birches\t374\nUpper Bann\tWaringstown\t32\nWest Tyrone\tArtigarvan\t275\nWest Tyrone\tBeragh\t563\nWest Tyrone\tCamowen\t33\nWest Tyrone\tCastlederg\t76\nWest Tyrone\tDergmoney\t12\nWest Tyrone\tDromore\t266\nWest Tyrone\tDrumnakilly\t323\nWest Tyrone\tDrumquin\t595\nWest Tyrone\tDunnamanagh\t666\nWest Tyrone\tFairy Water\t780\nWest Tyrone\tFinn\t267\nWest Tyrone\tFintona\t392\nWest Tyrone\tGlenderg\t842\nWest Tyrone\tGlenelly Valley\t848\nWest Tyrone\tGortin\t481\nWest Tyrone\tGortrush\t115\nWest Tyrone\tNewtownsaville\t682\nWest Tyrone\tNewtownstewart\t404\nWest Tyrone\tOwenkillew\t553\nWest Tyrone\tSion Mills\t120\nWest Tyrone\tSixmilecross\t553\nWest Tyrone\tSlievekirk\t81\nWest Tyrone\tStrabane North\t2\nWest Tyrone\tStrule\t4\nWest Tyrone\tTermon\t426\nWest Tyrone\tTrillick\t614\n\nii) The breakdown by Constituency is shown below.\n\nConstituency\tEligible Premises\nBelfast East\t263\nBelfast North\t108\nBelfast South\t122\nBelfast West\t94\nEast Antrim\t1,956\nEast Londonderry\t3,068\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\t12,841\nFoyle\t103\nLagan Valley\t3,740\nMid Ulster\t8,968\nNewry And Armagh\t8,327\nNorth Antrim\t6,773\nNorth Down\t828\nSouth Antrim\t5,349\nSouth Down\t9,211\nStrangford\t4,343\nUpper Bann\t2,683\nWest Tyrone\t9,973\n\nResidents and businesses may check if their premises have been included in the intervention area under Stratum at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/check-if-your-address-might-get-faster-broadband .","answerHtml":"At this stage of the procurement it is not possible to confirm which premises will benefit from Project Stratum. The precise number and location of premises to benefit from this intervention will be confirmed following contract award. The answers below relate to premises identified as eligible to benefit following an Open Market Review (OMR) and State aid public consultation. There are 78,750 eligible premises across Northern Ireland.
The breakdown by ward is shown below.
| Constituency | Ward | Eligible Premises |
| Belfast East | Ballyhanwood | 132 |
| Belfast East | Carrowreagh | 43 |
| Belfast East | Dundonald | 57 |
| Belfast East | Garnerville | 3 |
| Belfast East | Gilnahirk | 5 |
| Belfast East | Hillfoot | 1 |
| Belfast East | Merok | 3 |
| Belfast East | Stormont | 19 |
| Belfast North | Burnthill | 3 |
| Belfast North | Collinbridge | 1 |
| Belfast North | Glengormley | 3 |
| Belfast North | Legoniel | 64 |
| Belfast North | Valley | 37 |
| Belfast South | Beechill | 87 |
| Belfast South | Cairnshill | 2 |
| Belfast South | Carryduff East | 3 |
| Belfast South | Carryduff West | 9 |
| Belfast South | Cregagh | 2 |
| Belfast South | Finaghy | 4 |
| Belfast South | Hillfoot | 3 |
| Belfast South | Knockbracken | 3 |
| Belfast South | Upper Malone | 9 |
| Belfast West | Ballygomartin | 4 |
| Belfast West | Collin Glen | 6 |
| Belfast West | Poleglass | 22 |
| Belfast West | Stonyford | 51 |
| Belfast West | Turf Lodge | 11 |
| East Antrim | Abbey | 8 |
| East Antrim | Ballycarry And Glynn | 140 |
| East Antrim | Cairncastle | 189 |
| East Antrim | Carnlough And Glenarm | 385 |
| East Antrim | Castle | 1 |
| East Antrim | Gardenmore | 16 |
| East Antrim | Glenwhirry | 39 |
| East Antrim | Greenisland | 1 |
| East Antrim | Islandmagee | 113 |
| East Antrim | Kilroot | 36 |
| East Antrim | Kilwaughter | 134 |
| East Antrim | Lurigethan | 266 |
| East Antrim | Rostulla | 242 |
| East Antrim | Slemish | 21 |
| East Antrim | The Maidens | 15 |
| East Antrim | Torr Head And Rathlin | 222 |
| East Antrim | Victoria | 33 |
| East Antrim | Whitehead South | 17 |
| East Antrim | Woodburn | 78 |
| East Londonderry | Aghadowey | 508 |
| East Londonderry | Altahullion | 36 |
| East Londonderry | Atlantic | 160 |
| East Londonderry | Ballykelly | 35 |
| East Londonderry | Castlerock | 64 |
| East Londonderry | Churchland | 1 |
| East Londonderry | Claudy | 46 |
| East Londonderry | Drumsurn | 24 |
| East Londonderry | Dundooan | 455 |
| East Londonderry | Dungiven | 39 |
| East Londonderry | Feeny | 28 |
| East Londonderry | Garvagh | 388 |
| East Londonderry | Greysteel | 37 |
| East Londonderry | Hopefield | 2 |
| East Londonderry | Kilrea | 510 |
| East Londonderry | Macosquin | 453 |
| East Londonderry | Magilligan | 109 |
| East Londonderry | Park | 59 |
| East Londonderry | Portrush And Dunluce | 70 |
| East Londonderry | Portstewart | 18 |
| East Londonderry | Quarry | 2 |
| East Londonderry | University | 5 |
| East Londonderry | Windy Hall | 19 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Augher And Clogher | 515 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Aughnacloy | 482 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Ballinamallard | 268 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Ballygawley | 424 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Ballysaggart | 11 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Belcoo And Garrison | 572 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Belleek And Boa | 674 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Boho Cleenish And Letterbreen | 609 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Brookeborough | 567 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Caledon | 653 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Castlecaulfield | 235 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Castlecoole | 28 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Derrygonnelly | 603 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Derrylin | 546 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Donagh | 593 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Ederney And Kesh | 358 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Erne | 5 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Fivemiletown | 605 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Florence Court And Kinawley | 721 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Irvinestown | 336 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Killyman | 285 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Killymeal | 42 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Lisbellaw | 323 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Lisnarrick | 400 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Loughgall | 30 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Maguiresbridge | 718 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Moy | 255 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Moygashel | 60 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Mullaghmore | 108 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Newtownbutler | 523 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Portora | 9 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Rosslea | 537 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Rossorry | 58 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | Tempo | 593 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | The Birches | 95 |
| Foyle | Ballymagroarty | 1 |
| Foyle | Eglinton | 10 |
| Foyle | Enagh | 46 |
| Foyle | New Buildings | 2 |
| Foyle | Sheriff's Mountain | 12 |
| Foyle | Slievekirk | 32 |
| Lagan Valley | Ballinderry | 201 |
| Lagan Valley | Ballymacbrennan | 329 |
| Lagan Valley | Ballymacoss | 7 |
| Lagan Valley | Ballyward | 44 |
| Lagan Valley | Belvoir | 2 |
| Lagan Valley | Blaris | 64 |
| Lagan Valley | Donaghcloney | 35 |
| Lagan Valley | Dromara | 357 |
| Lagan Valley | Dromore | 54 |
| Lagan Valley | Drumbo | 166 |
| Lagan Valley | Dunmurry | 2 |
| Lagan Valley | Gransha | 402 |
| Lagan Valley | Harmony Hill | 50 |
| Lagan Valley | Hilden | 7 |
| Lagan Valley | Hillhall | 48 |
| Lagan Valley | Hillsborough | 157 |
| Lagan Valley | Knockmore | 10 |
| Lagan Valley | Lagan | 351 |
| Lagan Valley | Lambeg | 13 |
| Lagan Valley | Lisnagarvey | 2 |
| Lagan Valley | Maghaberry | 243 |
| Lagan Valley | Magheralave | 6 |
| Lagan Valley | Maze | 117 |
| Lagan Valley | Moira | 4 |
| Lagan Valley | Quilly | 448 |
| Lagan Valley | Ravernet | 302 |
| Lagan Valley | Stonyford | 134 |
| Lagan Valley | Wallace Park | 30 |
| Lagan Valley | White Mountain | 155 |
| Mid Ulster | Ardboe | 388 |
| Mid Ulster | Ballygawley | 89 |
| Mid Ulster | Ballymaguigan | 341 |
| Mid Ulster | Bellaghy | 304 |
| Mid Ulster | Castlecaulfield | 130 |
| Mid Ulster | Castledawson | 257 |
| Mid Ulster | Coagh | 233 |
| Mid Ulster | Coalisland North | 142 |
| Mid Ulster | Coalisland South | 4 |
| Mid Ulster | Cookstown East | 56 |
| Mid Ulster | Cookstown South | 5 |
| Mid Ulster | Cookstown West | 6 |
| Mid Ulster | Coolshinny | 512 |
| Mid Ulster | Donaghmore | 514 |
| Mid Ulster | Draperstown | 246 |
| Mid Ulster | Glebe | 10 |
| Mid Ulster | Killyman | 51 |
| Mid Ulster | Killymeal | 13 |
| Mid Ulster | Lissan | 527 |
| Mid Ulster | Loughry | 150 |
| Mid Ulster | Lower Glenshane | 474 |
| Mid Ulster | Maghera | 4 |
| Mid Ulster | Oaklands | 680 |
| Mid Ulster | Pomeroy | 606 |
| Mid Ulster | Stewartstown | 466 |
| Mid Ulster | Swatragh | 515 |
| Mid Ulster | Tamlaght O'crilly | 458 |
| Mid Ulster | The Loup | 486 |
| Mid Ulster | Tobermore | 582 |
| Mid Ulster | Town Parks East | 7 |
| Mid Ulster | Valley | 347 |
| Mid Ulster | Washing Bay | 365 |
| Newry And Armagh | Abbey | 14 |
| Newry And Armagh | Ballybot | 1 |
| Newry And Armagh | Bessbrook | 3 |
| Newry And Armagh | Blackwatertown | 821 |
| Newry And Armagh | Camlough | 292 |
| Newry And Armagh | Cathedral | 4 |
| Newry And Armagh | Crossmaglen | 305 |
| Newry And Armagh | Damolly | 17 |
| Newry And Armagh | Demesne | 24 |
| Newry And Armagh | Drumalane | 7 |
| Newry And Armagh | Fathom | 435 |
| Newry And Armagh | Forkhill | 347 |
| Newry And Armagh | Hamiltonsbawn | 716 |
| Newry And Armagh | Keady | 496 |
| Newry And Armagh | Loughbrickland | 68 |
| Newry And Armagh | Loughgall | 447 |
| Newry And Armagh | Mahon | 47 |
| Newry And Armagh | Markethill | 738 |
| Newry And Armagh | Mayobridge | 11 |
| Newry And Armagh | Mullaghbane | 335 |
| Newry And Armagh | Navan | 733 |
| Newry And Armagh | Newtownhamilton | 686 |
| Newry And Armagh | Richhill | 324 |
| Newry And Armagh | Seagahan | 775 |
| Newry And Armagh | St. Patrick's | 3 |
| Newry And Armagh | Tandragee | 42 |
| Newry And Armagh | The Mall | 29 |
| Newry And Armagh | Whitecross | 607 |
| North Antrim | Academy | 19 |
| North Antrim | Ahoghill | 20 |
| North Antrim | Ardeevin | 1 |
| North Antrim | Ballee And Harryville | 4 |
| North Antrim | Ballymoney East | 1 |
| North Antrim | Ballymoney North | 1 |
| North Antrim | Ballymoney South | 50 |
| North Antrim | Braidwater | 5 |
| North Antrim | Broughshane | 96 |
| North Antrim | Castle Demesne | 66 |
| North Antrim | Clogh Mills | 247 |
| North Antrim | Cullybackey | 20 |
| North Antrim | Dervock | 249 |
| North Antrim | Dunloy | 437 |
| North Antrim | Fair Green | 2 |
| North Antrim | Galgorm | 62 |
| North Antrim | Giant's Causeway | 183 |
| North Antrim | Glenravel | 367 |
| North Antrim | Glenwhirry | 454 |
| North Antrim | Grange | 653 |
| North Antrim | Kells | 132 |
| North Antrim | Kinbane | 493 |
| North Antrim | Kirkinriola | 365 |
| North Antrim | Loughguile And Stranocum | 412 |
| North Antrim | Maine | 440 |
| North Antrim | Portglenone | 316 |
| North Antrim | Rasharkin | 451 |
| North Antrim | Route | 190 |
| North Antrim | Slemish | 648 |
| North Antrim | Torr Head And Rathlin | 389 |
| North Down | Ballygrainey | 51 |
| North Down | Broadway | 1 |
| North Down | Clandeboye | 72 |
| North Down | Cultra | 197 |
| North Down | Groomsport | 125 |
| North Down | Harbour | 1 |
| North Down | Helen's Bay | 81 |
| North Down | Holywood | 26 |
| North Down | Kilcooley | 1 |
| North Down | Loughries | 117 |
| North Down | Loughview | 15 |
| North Down | Warren | 141 |
| South Antrim | Aldergrove | 557 |
| South Antrim | Antrim Centre | 28 |
| South Antrim | Ballynure | 103 |
| South Antrim | Ballyrobert | 96 |
| South Antrim | Burnthill | 2 |
| South Antrim | Clady | 465 |
| South Antrim | Cranfield | 584 |
| South Antrim | Crumlin | 28 |
| South Antrim | Doagh | 51 |
| South Antrim | Fountain Hill | 68 |
| South Antrim | Glenavy | 215 |
| South Antrim | Greystone | 106 |
| South Antrim | Hightown | 3 |
| South Antrim | Jordanstown | 21 |
| South Antrim | Mallusk | 78 |
| South Antrim | Mossley | 28 |
| South Antrim | Parkgate | 648 |
| South Antrim | Randalstown | 263 |
| South Antrim | Shilvodan | 727 |
| South Antrim | Springfarm | 17 |
| South Antrim | Steeple | 32 |
| South Antrim | Stiles | 67 |
| South Antrim | Stonyford | 363 |
| South Antrim | Templepatrick | 280 |
| South Antrim | Toome | 519 |
| South Down | Annalong | 445 |
| South Down | Ballydugan | 601 |
| South Down | Ballyward | 1,038 |
| South Down | Banbridge East | 257 |
| South Down | Binnian | 363 |
| South Down | Burren | 193 |
| South Down | Castlewellan | 238 |
| South Down | Cathedral | 48 |
| South Down | Crossgar And Killyleagh | 53 |
| South Down | Derryleckagh | 234 |
| South Down | Donard | 43 |
| South Down | Dromara | 6 |
| South Down | Drumaness | 285 |
| South Down | Dundrum | 339 |
| South Down | Gransha | 247 |
| South Down | Hilltown | 584 |
| South Down | Kilkeel | 35 |
| South Down | Knocknashinna | 9 |
| South Down | Lecale | 356 |
| South Down | Lisnacree | 650 |
| South Down | Loughbrickland | 321 |
| South Down | Mayobridge | 551 |
| South Down | Murlough | 55 |
| South Down | Quoile | 282 |
| South Down | Rathfriland | 481 |
| South Down | Rostrevor | 175 |
| South Down | Strangford | 596 |
| South Down | Tollymore | 718 |
| South Down | Warrenpoint | 8 |
| Strangford | Ballygowan | 274 |
| Strangford | Ballygrainey | 3 |
| Strangford | Ballywalter | 289 |
| Strangford | Ballyward | 1 |
| Strangford | Carrowdore | 465 |
| Strangford | Carryduff East | 119 |
| Strangford | Comber North | 38 |
| Strangford | Comber South | 236 |
| Strangford | Comber West | 36 |
| Strangford | Conway Square | 8 |
| Strangford | Crossgar And Killyleagh | 12 |
| Strangford | Derryboy | 486 |
| Strangford | Glen | 16 |
| Strangford | Killinchy | 444 |
| Strangford | Kilmore | 524 |
| Strangford | Kircubbin | 379 |
| Strangford | Loughries | 148 |
| Strangford | Moneyreagh | 157 |
| Strangford | Movilla | 1 |
| Strangford | Portaferry | 312 |
| Strangford | Portavogie | 130 |
| Strangford | Saintfield | 97 |
| Strangford | Scrabo | 159 |
| Strangford | West Winds | 9 |
| Upper Bann | Aghagallon | 348 |
| Upper Bann | Ballybay | 31 |
| Upper Bann | Banbridge East | 52 |
| Upper Bann | Banbridge North | 27 |
| Upper Bann | Banbridge South | 2 |
| Upper Bann | Bleary | 194 |
| Upper Bann | Brownlow | 1 |
| Upper Bann | Craigavon Centre | 76 |
| Upper Bann | Derrytrasna | 157 |
| Upper Bann | Donaghcloney | 375 |
| Upper Bann | Gilford | 348 |
| Upper Bann | Kernan | 30 |
| Upper Bann | Lagan | 1 |
| Upper Bann | Lough Road | 4 |
| Upper Bann | Loughbrickland | 320 |
| Upper Bann | Magheralin | 166 |
| Upper Bann | Mahon | 140 |
| Upper Bann | Mourneview | 3 |
| Upper Bann | Parklake | 2 |
| Upper Bann | The Birches | 374 |
| Upper Bann | Waringstown | 32 |
| West Tyrone | Artigarvan | 275 |
| West Tyrone | Beragh | 563 |
| West Tyrone | Camowen | 33 |
| West Tyrone | Castlederg | 76 |
| West Tyrone | Dergmoney | 12 |
| West Tyrone | Dromore | 266 |
| West Tyrone | Drumnakilly | 323 |
| West Tyrone | Drumquin | 595 |
| West Tyrone | Dunnamanagh | 666 |
| West Tyrone | Fairy Water | 780 |
| West Tyrone | Finn | 267 |
| West Tyrone | Fintona | 392 |
| West Tyrone | Glenderg | 842 |
| West Tyrone | Glenelly Valley | 848 |
| West Tyrone | Gortin | 481 |
| West Tyrone | Gortrush | 115 |
| West Tyrone | Newtownsaville | 682 |
| West Tyrone | Newtownstewart | 404 |
| West Tyrone | Owenkillew | 553 |
| West Tyrone | Sion Mills | 120 |
| West Tyrone | Sixmilecross | 553 |
| West Tyrone | Slievekirk | 81 |
| West Tyrone | Strabane North | 2 |
| West Tyrone | Strule | 4 |
| West Tyrone | Termon | 426 |
| West Tyrone | Trillick | 614 |
ii) The breakdown by Constituency is shown below.
| Constituency | Eligible Premises |
| Belfast East | 263 |
| Belfast North | 108 |
| Belfast South | 122 |
| Belfast West | 94 |
| East Antrim | 1,956 |
| East Londonderry | 3,068 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | 12,841 |
| Foyle | 103 |
| Lagan Valley | 3,740 |
| Mid Ulster | 8,968 |
| Newry And Armagh | 8,327 |
| North Antrim | 6,773 |
| North Down | 828 |
| South Antrim | 5,349 |
| South Down | 9,211 |
| Strangford | 4,343 |
| Upper Bann | 2,683 |
| West Tyrone | 9,973 |
Residents and businesses may check if their premises have been included in the intervention area under Stratum at https://www.nidirect.gov.uk/services/check-if-your-address-might-get-faster-broadband .
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207701%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=309664","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=309664"}},{"id":"311446","reference":"AQO 827/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-24","answerBy":"2020-10-06","answered":"2020-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure what plans she has to repair and maintain cycle lanes.","answerText":"Article 8 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 places a duty on my Department to maintain all public roads in reasonable condition. The term ‘road’ includes all adopted footways, cycle tracks and verges.\n\nIn recognition of its duty of care, my Department has put in place a set of Maintenance Standards for Safety, which are designed to ensure a consistent service level and a safe highway while offering value for money. The Safety Standards and procedures currently in operation establish frequencies for inspections and specify response times for the repair of defects, including on cycle lanes.\n\nAs the Member will be aware I announced an investment of £75m in the structural maintenance of the road network in 2020/2021. Although the COVID 19 pandemic led to some initial delays in the commencement of the 2020-21 road maintenance programmes, these are now well underway and the completed renewal work will benefit cyclists and all road users.","answerHtml":"Article 8 of the Roads (Northern Ireland) Order 1993 places a duty on my Department to maintain all public roads in reasonable condition. The term ‘road’ includes all adopted footways, cycle tracks and verges.
In recognition of its duty of care, my Department has put in place a set of Maintenance Standards for Safety, which are designed to ensure a consistent service level and a safe highway while offering value for money. The Safety Standards and procedures currently in operation establish frequencies for inspections and specify response times for the repair of defects, including on cycle lanes.
As the Member will be aware I announced an investment of £75m in the structural maintenance of the road network in 2020/2021. Although the COVID 19 pandemic led to some initial delays in the commencement of the 2020-21 road maintenance programmes, these are now well underway and the completed renewal work will benefit cyclists and all road users.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20827%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=311446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=311446"}},{"id":"310186","reference":"AQO 787/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-17","answerBy":"2020-09-29","answered":"2020-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on current development proposals for schools in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Area Planning activity including work on Development Proposals (DPs) was paused on 3 April 2020, with the exception of special education provision in mainstream and special school settings, so that all available resources could be redeployed in support of the Department’s emergency response to the Covid-19 pandemic.\n\nAs a consequence the Department has extended the statutory objection period following publication of some DPs to provide more time for interested parties to comment.\n\nWhen DP activity was paused there were three published proposals relating to two schools in East Londonderry.\n\nDP 588 to close Ballyhackett Primary School was published by the EA on 3 September 2019. This proposal was initially delayed as the school decided to bring forward a proposal to Transform to Controlled Integrated status.\n\nDP 644 for Ballyhackett Primary School to ‘Transform’ was published by the EA on 24 March 2020. The Department has extended the statutory objection period for this proposal until 9 November 2020.\n\nDP 616 to increase the admissions and enrolment number at Drumrane Primary School with effect from 1 September 2020 was published by the EA on 25 February 2020. The Department has extended the statutory objection period for this proposal until 12 October 2020.\n\nDecisions on these DPs will be made as soon as possible after the conclusion of the respective objection periods.","answerHtml":"Area Planning activity including work on Development Proposals (DPs) was paused on 3 April 2020, with the exception of special education provision in mainstream and special school settings, so that all available resources could be redeployed in support of the Department’s emergency response to the Covid-19 pandemic.
As a consequence the Department has extended the statutory objection period following publication of some DPs to provide more time for interested parties to comment.
When DP activity was paused there were three published proposals relating to two schools in East Londonderry.
DP 588 to close Ballyhackett Primary School was published by the EA on 3 September 2019. This proposal was initially delayed as the school decided to bring forward a proposal to Transform to Controlled Integrated status.
DP 644 for Ballyhackett Primary School to ‘Transform’ was published by the EA on 24 March 2020. The Department has extended the statutory objection period for this proposal until 9 November 2020.
DP 616 to increase the admissions and enrolment number at Drumrane Primary School with effect from 1 September 2020 was published by the EA on 25 February 2020. The Department has extended the statutory objection period for this proposal until 12 October 2020.
Decisions on these DPs will be made as soon as possible after the conclusion of the respective objection periods.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20787%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=310186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=310186"}},{"id":"308180","reference":"AQO 765/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-17","answerBy":"2020-09-29","answered":"2020-09-29","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how she is identifying and supporting young people, not in employment, education or training, that feel isolated as a consequence of the response to COVID-19.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds (The Minister for the Economy)","text":"In today's uncertain times, this is an important question for us, as a legislative Assembly, to consider. My Department provides a range of support to young people who are not in employment, education or training, often referred to as \"NEET\". My Department administers the Northern Ireland European social fund (ESF) programme, which includes 18 NEET projects with a value of over £33 million. The projects are specifically designed to support young people. Examples of the projects are wide-ranging across Northern Ireland. We have Bryson Charitable Group, Extern, GEMS, Include Youth, Job Directions, the South West College, Springboard, Stepping Stones NI, the Prince's Trust, Training for Women and YouthAction Northern Ireland, so it is really a very wide range of programmes that are supported through this part of my Department. The Department for the Economy is also the Northern Ireland accountable Department for Peace4Youth, which aims to engage 7,400 young people who are disadvantaged, marginalised and not readily engaging with other programmes. The Careers Service provides all-age, all-ability careers guidance, with a priority focus on helping those vulnerable to social exclusion. Inevitably, the response to COVID-19 and the lockdown, in particular, has made it more difficult to deliver those vital services. However, the services and projects have adapted to continue to provide much-needed support throughout the crisis. In March, Peace4Youth projects swiftly moved to online delivery to continue to support young people. ESF projects also moved to remote working. Some are now back working in their usual premises, where social distancing allows. Since March, the Careers Service has made over 49,000 contacts with 16- to 18-year-olds to guide them in taking the next steps in their education, training or employment."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"I call John O'Dowd."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"Do you want to call Claire for a supplementary?"},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"Oh, sorry. Excuse me."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Deputy Speaker. I appreciate the Minister's response. She talked about the European social fund: I have been contacted by a number of community and voluntary groups who are concerned about the future of that fund. If it is likely that that fund will no longer have a future, will her Department fund the shortfall, if it becomes an issue?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"That is indeed an important and, again, topical and timely question on the issue. The European social fund funds a range of programmes, not just for young people who are not in employment or training but as part of the Northern Ireland apprenticeship programme. Therefore, it is very important to us that the Executive collectively engage with the UK Government to ensure that our national Government understand that, in the replacement for that European social fund — the shared prosperity fund — Northern Ireland is not at a disadvantage and gains the same amount of funding from that shared prosperity funding as it does from structural funds as they come to Northern Ireland and, importantlyl, that we are able to set our own priorities and objectives for the funding as a devolved legislature with responsibility devolved in those areas. The lead Department for this is the Department of Finance. It has been working on this, and, of course, I will continue to liaise with it and with Departments in London to make sure that those views are known. Current ESF funding is secure until 31 March 2022."},{"speaker":"Mr O'Dowd","text":"The Minister will be aware that, since 2007, despite increased investment in Invest NI, it has actually created fewer jobs year on year. Does the Minister agree that we need to hold what we have at the moment and that there should be increased investment in apprenticeships, youth services and our students, so that we create a future for the young people who have been so badly affected by COVID-19?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"It is an important question. I think that the House will agree that, through my actions as Minister for the Economy, we have invested significantly in apprenticeships, youth training and the skills agenda in Northern Ireland. That is not just important for holding what we have but for developing the economy of the future and the skills pipeline that will go into that. That is an important aspect. The Department has been proactive in looking not just at apprenticeships but at careers delivery and other short-term interventions that will help to build the Northern Ireland economy, build skills and engage our young people into the future. I just want to focus for one second on one of those programmes, which has been very important, namely the assured skills academies that we have run. Those have been very successful in delivering proper training and jobs for young people in difficult circumstances. I refer to the Microsoft cybersecurity academy, which was completed in Northern Ireland on 12 June, delivered at the height of lockdown and delivered completely online. Of the 24 young people who engaged in that skills academy, 23 found employment out of it. Those long-term skills programmes and the ability to be flexible and match skills to labour market demand is really important. With your indulgence, Mr Deputy Speaker, I will answer the other part of the Member's question. It is really important that, while we build our skills base and support companies in Northern Ireland, we recognise the importance of foreign direct investment in Northern Ireland. Since April, I have announced over 1,000 new jobs, even in the midst of incredibly difficult economic circumstances in Northern Ireland. Six hundred of those new jobs have been announced by North American and US companies. That shows the importance of those companies investing in Northern Ireland. I look forward to talking to the special envoy to Northern Ireland tomorrow and building the relationships that allow those skills and job pipelines to continue."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr McGlone)","text":"I just remind the Minister of the two-minute rule. If you require additional time, perhaps you would ask for it before you answer, please, Minister. Thank you."},{"speaker":"Ms Hunter","text":"Is the Minister engaging with the Department of Education in order to deliver an effective strategy to deal with young people who are leaving school with low qualifications and at risk of unemployment?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"Before the Assembly collapsed in earlier times, the Minister of Education and the Minister for the Economy were working together on a strategy for 14- to 19-year-olds to look at the pathways that young people take at that age, the choices that they make and how we can improve services for them. Very early on, before the impact of COVID in this mandate, I had been talking to the Department of Education on that issue. We have now re-engaged with that work stream. I would like, in conjunction with the Department of Education, to bring forward a strategy that allows young people at 14 to 19 years old not just to look at traditional paths but to look at alternative paths towards their career prospects. We will help all of our young people in progressing their career prospects. We are also talking about creating that digital spine for Northern Ireland. We will try to incorporate those skills for our young people, right the way through from primary school until they leave education, preparing them for the world of work and the economy of the future."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"The Prime Minister has just announced a scheme in England for adults without an A-level or equivalent qualification where they will have access to a fully funded college course with an emphasis on \"skills valued by employers\". Can the Minister assure adults in a similar position in this jurisdiction that they will not be disadvantaged?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"I am extremely concerned about the 20% of the workforce who have no formal qualifications. It is an issue that the Assembly and the Executive will have to address in the long term. In the short term, we have been working with adults and with everyone, really, who has been affected by the impact of COVID on their employment. Our skills strategy division has been able to support 2,000 individuals impacted by COVID-19, helping them to achieve one of over 90 online fully accredited qualifications in key areas including digital, leadership, management and employability. A second phase of the programme will complete by March 2021. We hope that it will support a further 3,000 individuals, including those who have been furloughed or made redundant or who are availing of the self-employment scheme. It will include collaborative approaches from further education on placement and to support women to return and get training in information technology. That is work that the Department is already engaged in and fully cognisant of."},{"speaker":"Mr Dickson","text":"Minister, will you recognise the despair of my constituents, when you have recently told the House, in a previous answer, that you hope that the UK Government understand the value of EU funds that have been distributed in Northern Ireland? Surely, you and your party would not have dragged us out of the EU if you are only now conducting those negotiations with the UK Government."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dodds","text":"I shall resist, just this once, the Brexit issues in order to focus on the really important issue of skills in the Northern Ireland economy. I have been proactively engaging with my counterparts in London on the issue of the European social fund and its replacement, the shared prosperity fund. I will further support the Finance Minister as he seeks a full replacement of those funds for Northern Ireland. It is absolutely important that we are able to progress these issues for the people of Northern Ireland, for the young people of Northern Ireland and particularly for the economy of the future of Northern Ireland."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20765%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=308180","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-09-29&docID=309042#AQO%20765/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=308180"}},{"id":"307984","reference":"AQW 7021/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-16","answerBy":"2020-10-01","answered":"2020-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any discussions he has had with CCEA regarding qualification specifications and exams for academic year 2020/21.","answerText":"My officials have been working closely with CCEA throughout the summer as proposals for examinations in 2021 were developed, and are continuing to work with CCEA to take account of the feedback from the recent public consultation. I also met with the Chair of CCEA Council on 17 September. Careful consideration is being given, as a matter of urgency, to the views expressed during the consultation before final decisions are taken.","answerHtml":"My officials have been working closely with CCEA throughout the summer as proposals for examinations in 2021 were developed, and are continuing to work with CCEA to take account of the feedback from the recent public consultation. I also met with the Chair of CCEA Council on 17 September. Careful consideration is being given, as a matter of urgency, to the views expressed during the consultation before final decisions are taken.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207021%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307984","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307984"}},{"id":"307983","reference":"AQW 7020/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-16","answerBy":"2020-10-01","answered":"2020-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on the current status of the Renewable Heat Incentive Scheme; (ii) to confirm whether she intends to close the current scheme; (iii) what plans she has to review the conditions of the current scheme; and (iv) to confirm whether she has any plans to create a new scheme.","answerText":"I am currently considering options on the future of the Scheme. There are a series of complex issues under consideration including Value for Money matters, compliance with State aid rules and the impacts on Scheme participants.\n\nI will discuss options with Executive Colleagues before any final decision in relation to the closure of the Scheme is taken.\n\nMy Department has commissioned several pieces of independent research in recent years in relation to the Non Domestic RHI Scheme, including a review of the biomass tariff structure by Ricardo Energy and Environment in 2018, research into hardship by Buglass Energy Advisory, and a further tariff review by Cornwall Insight in 2020. In addition, the scheme is subject to scrutiny by the Northern Ireland Audit Office and by our own Departmental Internal Audit team.\n\nThe NDNA includes a commitment that the RHI scheme will be “replaced by a scheme that effectively cuts carbon emissions.” The introduction of such a scheme will be subject to consideration and discussion by the Executive in due course. This will be done in line with the new Northern Ireland Energy strategy, as part of an overall framework to support the pathway to net zero carbon.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering options on the future of the Scheme. There are a series of complex issues under consideration including Value for Money matters, compliance with State aid rules and the impacts on Scheme participants.
I will discuss options with Executive Colleagues before any final decision in relation to the closure of the Scheme is taken.
My Department has commissioned several pieces of independent research in recent years in relation to the Non Domestic RHI Scheme, including a review of the biomass tariff structure by Ricardo Energy and Environment in 2018, research into hardship by Buglass Energy Advisory, and a further tariff review by Cornwall Insight in 2020. In addition, the scheme is subject to scrutiny by the Northern Ireland Audit Office and by our own Departmental Internal Audit team.
The NDNA includes a commitment that the RHI scheme will be “replaced by a scheme that effectively cuts carbon emissions.” The introduction of such a scheme will be subject to consideration and discussion by the Executive in due course. This will be done in line with the new Northern Ireland Energy strategy, as part of an overall framework to support the pathway to net zero carbon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207020%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307983","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307983"}},{"id":"307982","reference":"AQW 7019/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-16","answerBy":"2020-10-01","answered":"2020-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the underspend for renewable energies at the end of financial year 2019/20.","answerText":"In the financial year 2019-20, expenditure relating to the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme totalled £6.7million. Available Annually Managed Expenditure (AME) budget to meet these costs was £28.9 million. AME that was not drawn down in this financial year therefore amounted to £22.2million.","answerHtml":"In the financial year 2019-20, expenditure relating to the Renewable Heat Incentive scheme totalled £6.7million. Available Annually Managed Expenditure (AME) budget to meet these costs was £28.9 million. AME that was not drawn down in this financial year therefore amounted to £22.2million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207019%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307982","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307982"}},{"id":"307981","reference":"AQW 7018/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-16","answerBy":"2020-10-01","answered":"2020-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether businesses who pay rates via their rent, as stated in their lease agreement, were eligible for the £10,000 Small Business Grant as a response to COVID-19, including those rent space within a shared building.","answerText":"The essential eligibility criteria for the £10,000 Small Business Grant were as follows:\n\nThe Net Annual Value of the property was £15,000 or less.\n\nThe property was in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief at the scheme launch date.\n\nThe property was occupied at the scheme launch date.\n\nIn addition to eligibility criteria, only one grant could be paid in respect of each qualifying property.\n\nBusinesses renting space within a shared building were eligible for the grant where the space they occupied was separately valued in the Valuation List and met the qualifying criteria. Additional information was required to confirm the eligibility for the grant of businesses renting property where the landlord or owner was liable to pay the rates. A separate application process to gather that information was put in place for those businesses.\n\nHaving a lease agreements in respect of rent and rate payments was not one of the eligibility criteria. However, LPS reserved the right to obtain verification that the applicant was an occupying tenant.\n\nIn cases where more than one business occupied a property, only one grant could be paid to the named ratepayer on the rate account. Businesses occupying a shared building valued as a single property entry on the Valuation List, could not meet the eligibility criteria.","answerHtml":"The essential eligibility criteria for the £10,000 Small Business Grant were as follows:
The Net Annual Value of the property was £15,000 or less.
The property was in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief at the scheme launch date.
The property was occupied at the scheme launch date.
In addition to eligibility criteria, only one grant could be paid in respect of each qualifying property.
Businesses renting space within a shared building were eligible for the grant where the space they occupied was separately valued in the Valuation List and met the qualifying criteria. Additional information was required to confirm the eligibility for the grant of businesses renting property where the landlord or owner was liable to pay the rates. A separate application process to gather that information was put in place for those businesses.
Having a lease agreements in respect of rent and rate payments was not one of the eligibility criteria. However, LPS reserved the right to obtain verification that the applicant was an occupying tenant.
In cases where more than one business occupied a property, only one grant could be paid to the named ratepayer on the rate account. Businesses occupying a shared building valued as a single property entry on the Valuation List, could not meet the eligibility criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207018%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307981"}},{"id":"307980","reference":"AQW 7017/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-16","answerBy":"2020-10-01","answered":"2020-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance why Land and Property Services would not process the £10,000 Small Business Grants for businesses who share space within the same property when other businesses in that same property had applied successfully before them; and whether the £10,000 Small Business Grant was only available on a first-come-first-serve basis for businesses in a shared property.","answerText":"The essential eligibility criteria for the £10,000 Small Business Grant were as follows:\n\nThe Net Annual Value of the property was £15,000 or less.\n\nThe property was in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief at the scheme launch date.\n\nThe property was occupied at the scheme launch date.\n\nIn addition to eligibility criteria, only one grant could be paid in respect of each qualifying property.\n\nLPS followed policy advice from the Department of Economy in respect of shared spaces. Where the property was occupied by more than one business, LPS was advised to pay the grant to the named ratepayer.","answerHtml":"The essential eligibility criteria for the £10,000 Small Business Grant were as follows:
The Net Annual Value of the property was £15,000 or less.
The property was in receipt of Small Business Rate Relief at the scheme launch date.
The property was occupied at the scheme launch date.
In addition to eligibility criteria, only one grant could be paid in respect of each qualifying property.
LPS followed policy advice from the Department of Economy in respect of shared spaces. Where the property was occupied by more than one business, LPS was advised to pay the grant to the named ratepayer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%207017%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307980"}},{"id":"307251","reference":"AQW 6669/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has any plans to change the Northern Ireland building regulations to incorporate mandatory standards for the provision of changing place toilets in the categories of the large public buildings and development, as set out in the current British Standard BS8300/2018.","answerText":"I am committed to incorporating Changing Places Toilets into local building regulations and have tasked my Department’s Building Standards Branch with bringing forward the necessary changes as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"I am committed to incorporating Changing Places Toilets into local building regulations and have tasked my Department’s Building Standards Branch with bringing forward the necessary changes as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206669%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307251","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307251"}},{"id":"307250","reference":"AQW 6668/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to streamline access to ophthalmic and other services away from application of an HC1 form, which can take up to eight weeks to process, for those in receipt of Universal Credit.","answerText":"Entitlement to assistance with health costs is generally based on low income or on receipt of some social security benefits set out in legislation (The Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charge Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004). At present this does not include Universal Credit.\n\nIt is necessary to make amendments to the legislation to include Universal Credit recipients with incomes below specified thresholds. It had not been possible to make the required changes to the legislation due to the absence of the NI Assembly in the first instance and then the ongoing need to respond to Covid-19.\n\nAn interim measure has been to use the existing Low Income Scheme (LIS) administered by the Department for Communities. This scheme provides a safety net for patients who do not automatically receive full help with the cost of their healthcare, but who have a low income and who therefore face difficulty meeting the cost of their health service treatment. The LIS involves an extra administrative burden for patients in the completion of an HC1 form, but one that cannot be avoided in the absence of regulatory change.\n\nAs soon as capacity permits officials will assess the options for a longer term solution. This will need to balance providing an equivalent level of coverage to that which existed prior to the introduction of Universal Credit, with minimising the impact on the budget or adding a significant administrative burden on either the individual or the processing agency","answerHtml":"Entitlement to assistance with health costs is generally based on low income or on receipt of some social security benefits set out in legislation (The Travelling Expenses and Remission of Charge Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2004). At present this does not include Universal Credit.
It is necessary to make amendments to the legislation to include Universal Credit recipients with incomes below specified thresholds. It had not been possible to make the required changes to the legislation due to the absence of the NI Assembly in the first instance and then the ongoing need to respond to Covid-19.
An interim measure has been to use the existing Low Income Scheme (LIS) administered by the Department for Communities. This scheme provides a safety net for patients who do not automatically receive full help with the cost of their healthcare, but who have a low income and who therefore face difficulty meeting the cost of their health service treatment. The LIS involves an extra administrative burden for patients in the completion of an HC1 form, but one that cannot be avoided in the absence of regulatory change.
As soon as capacity permits officials will assess the options for a longer term solution. This will need to balance providing an equivalent level of coverage to that which existed prior to the introduction of Universal Credit, with minimising the impact on the budget or adding a significant administrative burden on either the individual or the processing agency
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206668%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307250","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307250"}},{"id":"307249","reference":"AQW 6667/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail (i) the financial and other support provided to optometrists to provide eyecare during the response related to COVID-19; (ii) how many patients have been able to access NI PEARS in the previous six months, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust area; and (iii) whether he has any plans to provide additional support for local enhanced services to address waiting lists.","answerText":"In response to the reduction in the level of activity that Ophthalmic Practitioners were able to undertake due to Covid-19, a Financial Support Scheme (FSS) was established to reduce the risk to the ongoing viability of the service. The FSS provided an additional payment to eligible ophthalmic practices each month based on the average monthly payments received in 2019-20. Approximately £6.5 million in FSS payments have been made to Ophthalmic Contractors since April 2020.\n\nWhile restrictions on routine eye care were eased on 29 June 2020, for the remainder of 2020-21 there remains considerable uncertainty in terms of the level of General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) activity that Ophthalmic Practitioners will be able to undertake. In response the Department has committed to further financial support each month with any significant budget underspend recycled back to Ophthalmic Contractors in the form of additional payments. This will ensure that the level of payments to Ophthalmic Practitioners during 2020-21 is in line with normal levels, even if activity is significantly reduced due to Covid-19.\n\nIn addition to the FSS, £367,000 of Level 1 & Level 2 PPE has been provided from central Health and Social Care stocks for Ophthalmic Practitioners since April 2020.\n\nTable 1 shows the number of patients who accessed NI PEARS in each Health and Social Care Trust between February and July 2020.\n\nTable 1\n\nTrust\tNumber of Patients\nBelfast\t1,228\nNorthern\t1,379\nSouth Eastern\t1,138\nSouthern\t1,361\nWestern\t935\n\nNI PEARS was suspended from April to June 2020, with Urgent Eyecare replacing it. This was to facilitate virtual (non-face-to-face) activity which was not an available option in the original NI PEARS Service Specification. 7,781 patients accessed Urgent Eyecare in this time with 50% being seen virtually. Table 2 shows the number who accessed NI PEARS and Urgent Eyecare each month between February and July 2020.\n\nTable 2\n\nMonth\tNI PEARS\tUrgent Eyecare\nFeb-20\t1,852\t-\nMar-20\t1,566\t73\nApr-20\t104\t2,165\nMay-20\t5\t2,610\nJun-20\t216\t3,006\nJul-20\t2,298\t179\n\nHealth and Social Care has now re-opened all existing enhanced service provision in the acute eye and glaucoma pathways. Additional enhanced services are planned for post-operative cataract reviews (in-year) and potential macular and neurology enhanced services (in development). All enhanced services are designed to free capacity in secondary care and address waiting lists.","answerHtml":"In response to the reduction in the level of activity that Ophthalmic Practitioners were able to undertake due to Covid-19, a Financial Support Scheme (FSS) was established to reduce the risk to the ongoing viability of the service. The FSS provided an additional payment to eligible ophthalmic practices each month based on the average monthly payments received in 2019-20. Approximately £6.5 million in FSS payments have been made to Ophthalmic Contractors since April 2020.
While restrictions on routine eye care were eased on 29 June 2020, for the remainder of 2020-21 there remains considerable uncertainty in terms of the level of General Ophthalmic Services (GOS) activity that Ophthalmic Practitioners will be able to undertake. In response the Department has committed to further financial support each month with any significant budget underspend recycled back to Ophthalmic Contractors in the form of additional payments. This will ensure that the level of payments to Ophthalmic Practitioners during 2020-21 is in line with normal levels, even if activity is significantly reduced due to Covid-19.
In addition to the FSS, £367,000 of Level 1 & Level 2 PPE has been provided from central Health and Social Care stocks for Ophthalmic Practitioners since April 2020.
Table 1 shows the number of patients who accessed NI PEARS in each Health and Social Care Trust between February and July 2020.
Table 1
| Trust | Number of Patients |
| Belfast | 1,228 |
| Northern | 1,379 |
| South Eastern | 1,138 |
| Southern | 1,361 |
| Western | 935 |
NI PEARS was suspended from April to June 2020, with Urgent Eyecare replacing it. This was to facilitate virtual (non-face-to-face) activity which was not an available option in the original NI PEARS Service Specification. 7,781 patients accessed Urgent Eyecare in this time with 50% being seen virtually. Table 2 shows the number who accessed NI PEARS and Urgent Eyecare each month between February and July 2020.
Table 2
| Month | NI PEARS | Urgent Eyecare |
| Feb-20 | 1,852 | - |
| Mar-20 | 1,566 | 73 |
| Apr-20 | 104 | 2,165 |
| May-20 | 5 | 2,610 |
| Jun-20 | 216 | 3,006 |
| Jul-20 | 2,298 | 179 |
Health and Social Care has now re-opened all existing enhanced service provision in the acute eye and glaucoma pathways. Additional enhanced services are planned for post-operative cataract reviews (in-year) and potential macular and neurology enhanced services (in development). All enhanced services are designed to free capacity in secondary care and address waiting lists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206667%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307249","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307249"}},{"id":"307248","reference":"AQW 6666/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update on the evaluation of the Further and Higher Education Strategy; (ii) to detail her future plans regarding the strategy; (iii) whether she will integrate the Higher Education Strategy into the Skills Strategy; and (iv) how does she plan to engage students in the Skills Strategy.","answerText":"for an update on the evaluation of the Further and Higher Education Strategy;\n\nto detail her future plans regarding the strategy;\n\nThere are no plans for an independent evaluation of the FE Means Success (FEMS) strategy.\n\nImplementation of the FEMS strategy was taken forward through eight projects which were to be delivered jointly by the Department and the six Further Education colleges. In line with the recommendations of an Independent Review of the eight projects, the Project Board agreed in December 2019 that the remaining projects should be closed and that the small number of outstanding actions should be taken forward as part of the broader programme of work on transforming the Further Education (FE) sector.\n\nThere are two Higher Education Strategies, the ‘Graduating to Success Strategy’ and ‘Access to Success Strategy’, which both came to an end in March 2020. Final reporting and evaluation of projects within these strategies have been delayed due to Covid-19. An evaluation of the strategies is planned, when all projects have completed final closure reports.\n\nwhether she will integrate the Higher Education Strategy into the Skills Strategy;\n\nThe new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland will establish the key policy priorities for the next decade. It will encompass all aspects of policy and programmes which impact on skills development and delivery, including Higher and Further Education. Action plans for the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations will be developed, which will be taken forward by the relevant Divisions with responsibility for these areas.\n\nThe FE colleges and higher education institutions will be key delivery agents in ensuring that the objectives in the new Skills Strategy are delivered.\n\nhow does she plan to engage students in the Skills Strategy.\n\nThe Department will carry out a public consultation on the draft Skills Strategy early in 2021, which will enable anyone to provide comments on the proposals. We will be inviting representative bodies for industry, academia and so on to provide input and this will include student representatives.\n\nThe Department had originally planned to hold meetings with groups of stakeholders, including students, to encourage engagement with the development of the Strategy, but with the advent of the pandemic, these plans have been put on hold. This will be kept under review.","answerHtml":"for an update on the evaluation of the Further and Higher Education Strategy;
to detail her future plans regarding the strategy;
There are no plans for an independent evaluation of the FE Means Success (FEMS) strategy.
Implementation of the FEMS strategy was taken forward through eight projects which were to be delivered jointly by the Department and the six Further Education colleges. In line with the recommendations of an Independent Review of the eight projects, the Project Board agreed in December 2019 that the remaining projects should be closed and that the small number of outstanding actions should be taken forward as part of the broader programme of work on transforming the Further Education (FE) sector.
There are two Higher Education Strategies, the ‘Graduating to Success Strategy’ and ‘Access to Success Strategy’, which both came to an end in March 2020. Final reporting and evaluation of projects within these strategies have been delayed due to Covid-19. An evaluation of the strategies is planned, when all projects have completed final closure reports.
whether she will integrate the Higher Education Strategy into the Skills Strategy;
The new Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland will establish the key policy priorities for the next decade. It will encompass all aspects of policy and programmes which impact on skills development and delivery, including Higher and Further Education. Action plans for the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations will be developed, which will be taken forward by the relevant Divisions with responsibility for these areas.
The FE colleges and higher education institutions will be key delivery agents in ensuring that the objectives in the new Skills Strategy are delivered.
how does she plan to engage students in the Skills Strategy.
The Department will carry out a public consultation on the draft Skills Strategy early in 2021, which will enable anyone to provide comments on the proposals. We will be inviting representative bodies for industry, academia and so on to provide input and this will include student representatives.
The Department had originally planned to hold meetings with groups of stakeholders, including students, to encourage engagement with the development of the Strategy, but with the advent of the pandemic, these plans have been put on hold. This will be kept under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206666%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307248","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307248"}},{"id":"307247","reference":"AQW 6665/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-25","answered":"2020-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for an update of her Department’s review of student services within further education; (ii) how her Department engaged with students as part of this review; and (iii) what improvements she envisages to better support students in further education in the context of responses related to COVID-19.","answerText":"The Review of Further Education (FE) Student Support was initiated as two separate consecutive pieces of work comprising of ‘Stage 1: Baseline Information Exercise’ and ‘Stage 2: Policy Review’.\n\nStage 1 of the review has now been completed. Student views included were taken from the 2018/19 QDP Teaching & Learning survey, which showed that overall the work of colleges in relation to student support services is highly valued and appreciated by students.\n\nIt was intended that much of the work relating to Stage 2 would be informed by and stem from the information contained in the Stage 1 report. However, cognisant of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and the resultant significant ongoing changes in delivery of provision by FE, it is recognised that this information may now need to be reviewed before progressing.\n\nAccordingly, my Department proposes to include an interim step to the project; a ‘Stage 1.5’ to map the changes and impacts to student support resulting from the coronavirus pandemic, and better inform expectations for Stage 2 as to what improvements may be required to improve the support for students. This stage of the review is expected to commence in the next few weeks.\n\nInput from Further Education Sector will be vital, and this will include engagement with students, student support services managers and representatives from Student Bodies or Student Unions. As part of that engagement, the Department met with NUS-USI, which represents learners at FE colleges, in February 2020 to set out the background to the review and to seek their views on how best the voice of students could be taken into account. The Department met with representatives from NUS-USI again in July 2020 during the development of the Framework for the Safe Resumption of On-site Educational Provision and Related Activity (Framework Document), and shared a draft version of it with them. Their feedback, and that of a learners’ survey about the return to on-site provision commissioned by the Department, provided useful insights which were taken into consideration in the final version of the document. The Framework Document will be reviewed periodically as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves to ensure that it is kept up to date and reflects the sector’s needs, and the Department intends to continue its engagement with NUS-USI throughout this process. In terms of responses to Covid-19 in recent months, the Department has made several adaptions to student financial support arrangements, including payment of childcare retainer fees during lockdown, payment of Free School Meal allowances directly into the households of eligible students and working closely with colleges and the Education Authority to ensure that Covid-19-related transport restrictions are mitigated and managed. My Department will keep student support arrangements under review in response to the pandemic.","answerHtml":"The Review of Further Education (FE) Student Support was initiated as two separate consecutive pieces of work comprising of ‘Stage 1: Baseline Information Exercise’ and ‘Stage 2: Policy Review’.
Stage 1 of the review has now been completed. Student views included were taken from the 2018/19 QDP Teaching & Learning survey, which showed that overall the work of colleges in relation to student support services is highly valued and appreciated by students.
It was intended that much of the work relating to Stage 2 would be informed by and stem from the information contained in the Stage 1 report. However, cognisant of the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and the resultant significant ongoing changes in delivery of provision by FE, it is recognised that this information may now need to be reviewed before progressing.
Accordingly, my Department proposes to include an interim step to the project; a ‘Stage 1.5’ to map the changes and impacts to student support resulting from the coronavirus pandemic, and better inform expectations for Stage 2 as to what improvements may be required to improve the support for students. This stage of the review is expected to commence in the next few weeks.
Input from Further Education Sector will be vital, and this will include engagement with students, student support services managers and representatives from Student Bodies or Student Unions. As part of that engagement, the Department met with NUS-USI, which represents learners at FE colleges, in February 2020 to set out the background to the review and to seek their views on how best the voice of students could be taken into account. The Department met with representatives from NUS-USI again in July 2020 during the development of the Framework for the Safe Resumption of On-site Educational Provision and Related Activity (Framework Document), and shared a draft version of it with them. Their feedback, and that of a learners’ survey about the return to on-site provision commissioned by the Department, provided useful insights which were taken into consideration in the final version of the document. The Framework Document will be reviewed periodically as the COVID-19 pandemic evolves to ensure that it is kept up to date and reflects the sector’s needs, and the Department intends to continue its engagement with NUS-USI throughout this process. In terms of responses to Covid-19 in recent months, the Department has made several adaptions to student financial support arrangements, including payment of childcare retainer fees during lockdown, payment of Free School Meal allowances directly into the households of eligible students and working closely with colleges and the Education Authority to ensure that Covid-19-related transport restrictions are mitigated and managed. My Department will keep student support arrangements under review in response to the pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206665%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307247"}},{"id":"307334","reference":"AQO 714/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-10","answerBy":"2020-09-22","answered":"2020-09-22","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the Anti Social Behaviour Review.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"My Department carried out a consultation in 2018, inviting public opinion on a number of legislative proposals aimed at addressing antisocial behaviour. A full summary of responses was published on the Department’s website in December 2019. Since then, my officials have established a multi-agency review group to consider the effectiveness of current antisocial behaviour legislation in managing antisocial behaviours, as well as any new legislation that may be required. In parallel, my officials have commenced a scoping exercise to identify, where possible, an evidence base that will indicate how successful some of the proposed legislative measures, as introduced in the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 and as set out in the consultation document, have been. Recognising that legislation alone will not resolve this issue, the review group’s work is also seeking to inform discussion on the barriers and solutions to managing non-legislative responses to antisocial behaviour, including greater use of preventative and early intervention initiatives to address behaviours and any structures to allow for partnership and collaborative working."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for progressing this really important work. Does she have capacity in her legislative programme to strengthen the law in this area before the end of the mandate?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Long","text":"It is very important to say that responses to the consultation were very mixed. There were no conclusive areas where everyone agreed that we should take forward additional legislation, which is why the cross-sectoral working group has been set up. As a result of that, there is some complex work going on to develop an evidence base. It is, therefore, unlikely that we will bring forward new legislation in this mandate to deal specifically with antisocial behaviour. However, the non-legislative approaches, which I have referred to, may be able to take that forward."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"That is the end of our time for listed questions to the Minister, and we now move on to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20714%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307334","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-09-22&docID=307905#AQO%20714/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307334"}},{"id":"307118","reference":"AQW 6574/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-09","answerBy":"2020-09-24","answered":"2021-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the average number of calls to the 119 COVID-19 test hotline in the last four weeks; (ii) how many tests have been booked; and (iii) whether he plans to increase the number of testing centres, including mobile units.","answerText":"The COVID-19 helpline (119) is managed by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) England as part of the National Testing Programme. DHSC has advised that data pertaining to the number of calls made to the helpline is not currently in the public domain and they are unable to share management information in relation to the service at this time.\n\nTotal number of tests booked in Northern Ireland can be found on the DoH dashboard at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-db-170921.pdf\n\nTesting capacity in Northern Ireland has increased significantly through our participation in the National Testing Programme. Currently there are five fixed regional test sites, ten walk-through test sites and fifteen mobile testing units (MTUs) operating in Northern Ireland. There are also Home and Satellite test kit options. Information on COVID-19 testing locations can be found on the PHA website at: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/testing-and-tracing-covid-19/testing-covid-19\n\nOverall testing capacity is continually reviewed by my Department.","answerHtml":"The COVID-19 helpline (119) is managed by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) England as part of the National Testing Programme. DHSC has advised that data pertaining to the number of calls made to the helpline is not currently in the public domain and they are unable to share management information in relation to the service at this time.
Total number of tests booked in Northern Ireland can be found on the DoH dashboard at: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/health/doh-db-170921.pdf
Testing capacity in Northern Ireland has increased significantly through our participation in the National Testing Programme. Currently there are five fixed regional test sites, ten walk-through test sites and fifteen mobile testing units (MTUs) operating in Northern Ireland. There are also Home and Satellite test kit options. Information on COVID-19 testing locations can be found on the PHA website at: https://www.publichealth.hscni.net/covid-19-coronavirus/testing-and-tracing-covid-19/testing-covid-19
Overall testing capacity is continually reviewed by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206574%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307118"}},{"id":"307117","reference":"AQW 6573/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-09","answerBy":"2020-09-24","answered":"2020-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether he has any plans to approve the use of Trikafta/Kaftrio for the treatment of cystic fibrosis via the Health Service; (ii) if approved, when the drug will be available to patients; and (iii) under what conditions will it be licenced for use on the Health Service.","answerText":"I announced on 30 July 2020 that an agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals had been reached. Subsequently I welcomed the news that Kaftrio received its licence for use in Europe on 21 August 2020. I can also advise that the contractual process has been completed and that Kaftrio is now approved for use in the HSC.\n\nA number of the most severely ill patients have already commenced treatment with Kaftrio. However, there are over 500 children and adults who suffer from cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland. Not all will be clinically suitable for treatment with Kaftrio and not everyone can be treated immediately. Clinical teams are working on the prioritisation of those patients most likely to see the greatest benefit.\n\nThe current EU license provides that eligible patients – aged 12 or over who have two copies of the F508del mutation gene, or one copy of F508del and a minimal function mutation – may be suitable for treatment with Kaftrio. In addition, the Vertex agreement provides for a number of additional patients with genetic mutations assessed as requiring ‘off label’ (off-license) use of the new regime. A clinically led panel will be established at Trust level to support the assessment and suitability of such patients for treatment.","answerHtml":"I announced on 30 July 2020 that an agreement with Vertex Pharmaceuticals had been reached. Subsequently I welcomed the news that Kaftrio received its licence for use in Europe on 21 August 2020. I can also advise that the contractual process has been completed and that Kaftrio is now approved for use in the HSC.
A number of the most severely ill patients have already commenced treatment with Kaftrio. However, there are over 500 children and adults who suffer from cystic fibrosis in Northern Ireland. Not all will be clinically suitable for treatment with Kaftrio and not everyone can be treated immediately. Clinical teams are working on the prioritisation of those patients most likely to see the greatest benefit.
The current EU license provides that eligible patients – aged 12 or over who have two copies of the F508del mutation gene, or one copy of F508del and a minimal function mutation – may be suitable for treatment with Kaftrio. In addition, the Vertex agreement provides for a number of additional patients with genetic mutations assessed as requiring ‘off label’ (off-license) use of the new regime. A clinically led panel will be established at Trust level to support the assessment and suitability of such patients for treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206573%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307117"}},{"id":"307116","reference":"AQW 6572/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-09","answerBy":"2020-09-24","answered":"2020-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to detail the use of face coverings in post-primary schools; (ii) to advise of the process if a child is unable to wear a face covering due to a medical or other issue; and (iii) whether schools have discretion to decide if, where and when their students must wear face coverings.","answerText":"In light of the latest scientific advice from the World Health Organisation, and from the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer, the advice on the use of face coverings within education settings is as follows:\n\nIn Primary schools children are recommended not to use face coverings because of the range of mitigation measures schools have in place, the reduced rate of transmission to and from children of this age.\n\nFace coverings are strongly recommended to be worn where adults and young people in post-primary schools (including special schools and independent and grant aided schools) are moving about the school in corridors and confined communal areas (including toilets) where physical distancing is particularly difficult to maintain.\n\nIn line with the current arrangements for public transport, it is mandatory for all pupils aged 13 and over to wear a face covering on public transport. It is also strongly recommended that all pupils, regardless of age, should wear a face covering on all buses, trains or taxis for the journey to school where it is appropriate for them to do so and they are able to handle them as directed.\n\nOutside of classrooms, face coverings must be worn by adults where they cannot keep 2m distance and are interacting face-to-face with other adults and/or children and young people; and, by all adults visiting the school site.\n\nFace coverings are strongly recommended for activities that entail large numbers of staff or pupils within an enclosed space where social distancing is not possible.\n\nStaff and pupils may wish to use them during the routine school day and this is acceptable.\n\nSchools should be aware that some persons (including children) are exempt from wearing face coverings and this should be treated sensitively. There is no need to get a letter from a doctor or the government to show that you do not need to wear a face covering.\n\nSchools are advised to operate within the relevant guidelines. No one should be excluded from school for failure to have or wear a face covering.","answerHtml":"In light of the latest scientific advice from the World Health Organisation, and from the Chief Medical Officer and Chief Scientific Officer, the advice on the use of face coverings within education settings is as follows:
In Primary schools children are recommended not to use face coverings because of the range of mitigation measures schools have in place, the reduced rate of transmission to and from children of this age.
Face coverings are strongly recommended to be worn where adults and young people in post-primary schools (including special schools and independent and grant aided schools) are moving about the school in corridors and confined communal areas (including toilets) where physical distancing is particularly difficult to maintain.
In line with the current arrangements for public transport, it is mandatory for all pupils aged 13 and over to wear a face covering on public transport. It is also strongly recommended that all pupils, regardless of age, should wear a face covering on all buses, trains or taxis for the journey to school where it is appropriate for them to do so and they are able to handle them as directed.
Outside of classrooms, face coverings must be worn by adults where they cannot keep 2m distance and are interacting face-to-face with other adults and/or children and young people; and, by all adults visiting the school site.
Face coverings are strongly recommended for activities that entail large numbers of staff or pupils within an enclosed space where social distancing is not possible.
Staff and pupils may wish to use them during the routine school day and this is acceptable.
Schools should be aware that some persons (including children) are exempt from wearing face coverings and this should be treated sensitively. There is no need to get a letter from a doctor or the government to show that you do not need to wear a face covering.
Schools are advised to operate within the relevant guidelines. No one should be excluded from school for failure to have or wear a face covering.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206572%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307116"}},{"id":"307115","reference":"AQW 6571/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-09","answerBy":"2020-09-24","answered":"2020-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the social distancing guidelines in further education colleges across Northern Ireland; and (ii) any concerns regarding capacity at colleges due to social distancing and other measures.","answerText":"The social distancing guidelines in place for the Further Education (FE) colleges are based on clear and unequivocal advice from the Public Health Agency (PHA). That advice is that two metres is the optimum distance required in FE colleges to protect staff, learners and public health. PHA also advised that for the purposes of occupational training, FE colleges should follow relevant government issued industry and workplace guidance for those specific situations and that standards for training in these situations should be at the same rigorous level as the standards maintained in the professional setting.\n\nAdherence to these social distancing requirements does reduce capacity in some FE college classes. Where this is the case, the colleges have agreed to use a blended learning model. Colleges have extensive expertise in delivering quality blended learning solutions and are well placed to provide quality online delivery and relevant support through their virtual learning environments. Colleges are also committed to making every effort to assist learners and staff to settle into the new way of working including through the use of comprehensive induction programmes to prepare students and staff for new delivery models.\n\nI am aware of challenges which some schools have reported regarding the capacity of school partnership programmes operating in FE colleges under the FE college social distancing requirements. My officials have already met with representatives from the FE Sector, and officials in the Department of Education, and we are in the process of identifying all of the issues involved in order to seek a resolution to them as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"The social distancing guidelines in place for the Further Education (FE) colleges are based on clear and unequivocal advice from the Public Health Agency (PHA). That advice is that two metres is the optimum distance required in FE colleges to protect staff, learners and public health. PHA also advised that for the purposes of occupational training, FE colleges should follow relevant government issued industry and workplace guidance for those specific situations and that standards for training in these situations should be at the same rigorous level as the standards maintained in the professional setting.
Adherence to these social distancing requirements does reduce capacity in some FE college classes. Where this is the case, the colleges have agreed to use a blended learning model. Colleges have extensive expertise in delivering quality blended learning solutions and are well placed to provide quality online delivery and relevant support through their virtual learning environments. Colleges are also committed to making every effort to assist learners and staff to settle into the new way of working including through the use of comprehensive induction programmes to prepare students and staff for new delivery models.
I am aware of challenges which some schools have reported regarding the capacity of school partnership programmes operating in FE colleges under the FE college social distancing requirements. My officials have already met with representatives from the FE Sector, and officials in the Department of Education, and we are in the process of identifying all of the issues involved in order to seek a resolution to them as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206571%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307115"}},{"id":"307114","reference":"AQW 6570/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-09","answerBy":"2020-09-24","answered":"2020-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) how many students given conditional offers for September 2020 at Ulster University and Queen’s University Belfast have lost their place due to incorrect grading; and (ii) whether she has approved additional finance to address lost places.","answerText":"Higher education institutions are autonomous bodies, and are responsible for their own admissions practices. The Department does not therefore hold the information requested on conditional offers and acceptances. You may wish to contact the universities directly to seek the information requested.\n\nI am pleased to confirm that my Executive colleagues share my belief that we have a responsibility to our young people, and have agreed to provide any additional funding which may be required for additional places.","answerHtml":"Higher education institutions are autonomous bodies, and are responsible for their own admissions practices. The Department does not therefore hold the information requested on conditional offers and acceptances. You may wish to contact the universities directly to seek the information requested.
I am pleased to confirm that my Executive colleagues share my belief that we have a responsibility to our young people, and have agreed to provide any additional funding which may be required for additional places.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206570%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=307114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=307114"}},{"id":"306682","reference":"AQW 6324/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-04","answerBy":"2020-09-21","answered":"2021-09-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the COVID-19 testing facilities within a 10 miles radius of Coleraine; (ii) whether he has any plans to increase the number COVID-19 testing facilities, including mobile units, as we approach winter; (iii) what plans he has to improve access for COVID-19 testing for those who do not have access to private transport; and (iv) for his assessment of the impact on the rate of infection if those being tested have to travel longer distances.","answerText":"There is currently one permanent walk-through COVID-19 test site located at Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, which opened on 21 October 2020. The nearest drive through site to Coleraine is at 60 Clooney Road Maydown, Derry / Londonderry (25 miles).\n\nOverall testing capacity and the number and location of test sites is continually reviewed by my Department and the Public Health Agency. There has been a number of expansions over recent months. There is now a total of five fixed test centres; ten permanent walk through test centres and fifteen Mobile Testing Units deployed across Northern Ireland. Full details can be found on the the Public Health Agency (PHA) website at Testing for COVID-19 | HSC Public Health Agency (hscni.net).\n\nThere is provision to obtain Home Test Kits which can be ordered via the online testing portal and returned by post for analysis. In circumstances where an individual is unable to travel and has no one who can help them with a home testing kit, the relevant Health and Social Care Trust will ensure that appropriate support is provided to the individual in their own home.\n\nTests in Northern Ireland can be accessed in a number of ways including by Home Test Kits by post. Most COVID-19 tests slots at testing centres are offered within a reasonably short travel distance. If there is a need to travel for a test, the public are asked to follow the advice on safe travel in order to help stop the spread of the virus. This advice includes being mindful of spreading the virus to others whilst travelling, practise social distancing, good hand and respiratory hygiene, wear a face covering.","answerHtml":"There is currently one permanent walk-through COVID-19 test site located at Ulster University, Cromore Road, Coleraine, which opened on 21 October 2020. The nearest drive through site to Coleraine is at 60 Clooney Road Maydown, Derry / Londonderry (25 miles).
Overall testing capacity and the number and location of test sites is continually reviewed by my Department and the Public Health Agency. There has been a number of expansions over recent months. There is now a total of five fixed test centres; ten permanent walk through test centres and fifteen Mobile Testing Units deployed across Northern Ireland. Full details can be found on the the Public Health Agency (PHA) website at Testing for COVID-19 | HSC Public Health Agency (hscni.net).
There is provision to obtain Home Test Kits which can be ordered via the online testing portal and returned by post for analysis. In circumstances where an individual is unable to travel and has no one who can help them with a home testing kit, the relevant Health and Social Care Trust will ensure that appropriate support is provided to the individual in their own home.
Tests in Northern Ireland can be accessed in a number of ways including by Home Test Kits by post. Most COVID-19 tests slots at testing centres are offered within a reasonably short travel distance. If there is a need to travel for a test, the public are asked to follow the advice on safe travel in order to help stop the spread of the virus. This advice includes being mindful of spreading the virus to others whilst travelling, practise social distancing, good hand and respiratory hygiene, wear a face covering.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206324%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306682","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306682"}},{"id":"306681","reference":"AQW 6323/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-04","answerBy":"2020-09-21","answered":"2020-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) what plans he has to support children taking transfer tests who have lost or will lose class time due to isolation related to COVID-19; (ii) whether he has any plans to change special circumstances entry criteria to post-primary schools for September 2021 to account for circumstances related to COVID-19; and (iii) to outline alternative plans to sitting the transfer test in January 2021 should it not be possible due to COVID-19.","answerText":"The “Engage” programme aims to limit any long-term adverse impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on learning by supporting the learning and engagement of pupils through provision of high quality one to one, small group or team teaching support in every school in Northern Ireland. This support is for all children regardless of whether they take the transfer test or not.\n\nAdditionally, I have also provided funding for the purchase of online virtual learning resources for children going into Year 7 to help with literacy and numeracy skills and funded a number of summer schools.\n\nThe application of admissions criteria are matters for Boards of Governors including consideration of special circumstances arrangements. Current guidance makes clear that it is important that schools that use the results of an entrance test as part of their admissions criteria make use of a special circumstances procedure as part of their process.\n\nThe arrangements for the transfer tests do not fall within my Department’s remit and are a matter for the test providers and those schools that use the tests results as part of their admissions criteria. Should the tests be impacted because of wider public health concerns in the autumn, it will be a matter for individual Boards of Governors in those schools that use the scores from the tests in their admissions criteria to decide what alternative criteria they may wish to use.","answerHtml":"The “Engage” programme aims to limit any long-term adverse impact of the COVID-19 lockdown on learning by supporting the learning and engagement of pupils through provision of high quality one to one, small group or team teaching support in every school in Northern Ireland. This support is for all children regardless of whether they take the transfer test or not.
Additionally, I have also provided funding for the purchase of online virtual learning resources for children going into Year 7 to help with literacy and numeracy skills and funded a number of summer schools.
The application of admissions criteria are matters for Boards of Governors including consideration of special circumstances arrangements. Current guidance makes clear that it is important that schools that use the results of an entrance test as part of their admissions criteria make use of a special circumstances procedure as part of their process.
The arrangements for the transfer tests do not fall within my Department’s remit and are a matter for the test providers and those schools that use the tests results as part of their admissions criteria. Should the tests be impacted because of wider public health concerns in the autumn, it will be a matter for individual Boards of Governors in those schools that use the scores from the tests in their admissions criteria to decide what alternative criteria they may wish to use.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206323%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306681","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306681"}},{"id":"306680","reference":"AQW 6322/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-04","answerBy":"2020-09-21","answered":"2020-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the rationale and scientific evidence as to why theatres remain closed as a response to COVID-19.","answerText":"Executive decisions on actions related to COVID-19 are made in the light of advice given by the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Advisor.\n\nOn 6th August, the Executive agreed the reopening of theatres and concert halls for rehearsals and staff from 8th August and gave an indicative date of 1st September for the return of live audiences. However, due to concern over a rise in cases numbers and the R-number at the time, the 1 September date for live audiences could not subsequently be ratified.\n\nMy department is working with the Arts Sector on measures aimed at enabling the safe return of live audiences to our theatres as quickly and as practicably as possible.","answerHtml":"Executive decisions on actions related to COVID-19 are made in the light of advice given by the Chief Medical Officer and the Chief Scientific Advisor.
On 6th August, the Executive agreed the reopening of theatres and concert halls for rehearsals and staff from 8th August and gave an indicative date of 1st September for the return of live audiences. However, due to concern over a rise in cases numbers and the R-number at the time, the 1 September date for live audiences could not subsequently be ratified.
My department is working with the Arts Sector on measures aimed at enabling the safe return of live audiences to our theatres as quickly and as practicably as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206322%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306680"}},{"id":"306679","reference":"AQW 6321/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-04","answerBy":"2020-09-21","answered":"2020-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) why driving instructors and students are unable to use facilities at test centres; (ii) whether she plans to reduce testing fees due to limiting this service; (iii) whether she will provide other shelter given that many test centres are out of town; and (iii) whether she would consider social distancing and other COVID-19-related measures to enable safe reopening of these services.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has carried out an extensive review of its risk assessments to ensure that all relevant control measures relating to Covid-19 have been incorporated into its driver and vehicle testing processes. These have enabled MOT centres to safely reopen from 20 July, and practical car driver testing to recommence from 1 September. The DVA is providing the full practical driving test service and there are no plans to reduce testing fees at this time.\n\nTo mitigate against the risk of spreading Covid-19 and to meet PHA guidelines in relation to social distancing, it has been necessary for the DVA to take steps to reduce the number of people in its test halls and reception areas. Unfortunately, at this time it is not possible for the DVA to accommodate customers in its buildings during driving tests. This information was provided in the stakeholder information pack provided to Approved Driving Instructors. However, all customers will have access to toilet facilities at each site and the DVA is urgently exploring options to provide shelter that is safe and in line with risk assessments and public health advice.\n\nI fully appreciate and accept this is far from an ideal situation. I would, however, stress that these temporary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of customers and staff, which remains my priority at this time. I do, however, recognise that for driving instructors in particular, many of whom will regularly visit the DVA test centres, that a review of this position is required and DVA officials are urgently exploring options to identify practical solutions to this issue.\n\nI am very conscious of the disruption and inconvenience being experienced by many of our customers at this time, I can assure you that the DVA is working to safely restore normal services as soon as possible. This includes considering any practical alternatives to keeping customers safe whilst tests are ongoing and updating their risk assessments and advising customers should current procedures be able to be changed.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) has carried out an extensive review of its risk assessments to ensure that all relevant control measures relating to Covid-19 have been incorporated into its driver and vehicle testing processes. These have enabled MOT centres to safely reopen from 20 July, and practical car driver testing to recommence from 1 September. The DVA is providing the full practical driving test service and there are no plans to reduce testing fees at this time.
To mitigate against the risk of spreading Covid-19 and to meet PHA guidelines in relation to social distancing, it has been necessary for the DVA to take steps to reduce the number of people in its test halls and reception areas. Unfortunately, at this time it is not possible for the DVA to accommodate customers in its buildings during driving tests. This information was provided in the stakeholder information pack provided to Approved Driving Instructors. However, all customers will have access to toilet facilities at each site and the DVA is urgently exploring options to provide shelter that is safe and in line with risk assessments and public health advice.
I fully appreciate and accept this is far from an ideal situation. I would, however, stress that these temporary measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of customers and staff, which remains my priority at this time. I do, however, recognise that for driving instructors in particular, many of whom will regularly visit the DVA test centres, that a review of this position is required and DVA officials are urgently exploring options to identify practical solutions to this issue.
I am very conscious of the disruption and inconvenience being experienced by many of our customers at this time, I can assure you that the DVA is working to safely restore normal services as soon as possible. This includes considering any practical alternatives to keeping customers safe whilst tests are ongoing and updating their risk assessments and advising customers should current procedures be able to be changed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206321%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306679"}},{"id":"306678","reference":"AQW 6320/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-04","answerBy":"2020-09-21","answered":"2020-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she plans to prioritise driving tests for those who are unable to use public transport due to medical or other reasons.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) resumed practical driving tests for cars and lorries from 1 September, initially prioritising those requests from around 200 high priority workers who have previously requested an urgent driving test and were at that time on a waiting list. The DVA is continuing to process requests for high priority workers and these customers will also be offered driving test appointments. Driving tests will also be offered to around 3,600 customers who had a driving test booked between March and June, but whose tests were cancelled due to the lockdown measures imposed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.\n\nThe DVA is making good progress in delivering driving tests for these customers and estimates it will take around 6 to 8 weeks to clear this backlog, anticipating a resumption of its normal service delivery from October/ November. While I fully appreciate there are many legitimate reasons why customers will want to take their practical driving test at the earliest opportunity, for prioritisation to be effective it needs to be focussed and be able to be managed by the DVA. The DVA is planning to reopen bookings for all new customers as soon as possible and to increase capacity for driving tests to deal with the likely high demand when normal service resumes. In doing so, this will improve driving tests services for all our customers, including those who are unable to use public transport due to medical or other reasons.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) resumed practical driving tests for cars and lorries from 1 September, initially prioritising those requests from around 200 high priority workers who have previously requested an urgent driving test and were at that time on a waiting list. The DVA is continuing to process requests for high priority workers and these customers will also be offered driving test appointments. Driving tests will also be offered to around 3,600 customers who had a driving test booked between March and June, but whose tests were cancelled due to the lockdown measures imposed to prevent the spread of Covid-19.
The DVA is making good progress in delivering driving tests for these customers and estimates it will take around 6 to 8 weeks to clear this backlog, anticipating a resumption of its normal service delivery from October/ November. While I fully appreciate there are many legitimate reasons why customers will want to take their practical driving test at the earliest opportunity, for prioritisation to be effective it needs to be focussed and be able to be managed by the DVA. The DVA is planning to reopen bookings for all new customers as soon as possible and to increase capacity for driving tests to deal with the likely high demand when normal service resumes. In doing so, this will improve driving tests services for all our customers, including those who are unable to use public transport due to medical or other reasons.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206320%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306678"}},{"id":"306518","reference":"AQW 6243/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what plans her Department has to decarbonise the transport sector, including approximately 18,000 Heavy Goods Vehicles in Northern Ireland; (ii) whether her Department has researched compressed natural gas as a means to decarbonise the transport sector unable to be powered by electricity; and (iii) what infrastructure would be required across Northern Ireland to enable compressed natural gas as fuel for Heavy Goods Vehicles.","answerText":"I am committed to decarbonising transport as part of my Department’s climate change action. My officials are working closely with the Office for Low Emission Vehicles on the development of UK wide transport decarbonisation plans and with the Department for the Economy on the transport elements of the proposed new Energy Strategy to inform how best this can be achieved for the North. This will include input from experts and stakeholders in relation to alternative fuels and supporting infrastructure.\n\nI look forward to considering the outcomes from this work and to understanding the role that compressed natural gas, liquid natural gas and other alternative fuels can play in decarbonising the freight sector and addressing the challenges faced by this sector in meeting zero emission targets.\n\nI also announced earlier this year the first hydrogen buses in Belfast. This demonstrates my commitment to reducing energy demand and emissions arising from heavy transport.","answerHtml":"I am committed to decarbonising transport as part of my Department’s climate change action. My officials are working closely with the Office for Low Emission Vehicles on the development of UK wide transport decarbonisation plans and with the Department for the Economy on the transport elements of the proposed new Energy Strategy to inform how best this can be achieved for the North. This will include input from experts and stakeholders in relation to alternative fuels and supporting infrastructure.
I look forward to considering the outcomes from this work and to understanding the role that compressed natural gas, liquid natural gas and other alternative fuels can play in decarbonising the freight sector and addressing the challenges faced by this sector in meeting zero emission targets.
I also announced earlier this year the first hydrogen buses in Belfast. This demonstrates my commitment to reducing energy demand and emissions arising from heavy transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206243%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306518"}},{"id":"306517","reference":"AQW 6242/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs whether he has any plans to (i) introduce right to roam legislation in Northern Ireland; and (ii) improve policy to effectively assert a right-of-way.","answerText":"My Department is currently reviewing legislation related to access to the countryside, with a focus on optimising the benefits and opportunities for outdoor recreation. In relation to right to roam legislation, I have no plans to introduce specific regulations in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe current review will consider the suitability of the current Access to the Countryside (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 which includes the policies associated with the assertion of Public Rights of Way.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently reviewing legislation related to access to the countryside, with a focus on optimising the benefits and opportunities for outdoor recreation. In relation to right to roam legislation, I have no plans to introduce specific regulations in Northern Ireland.
The current review will consider the suitability of the current Access to the Countryside (Northern Ireland) Order 1983 which includes the policies associated with the assertion of Public Rights of Way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206242%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306517"}},{"id":"306516","reference":"AQW 6241/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs what plans he has to (i) help reduce carbon emissions from Northern Ireland’s agricultural waste; and (ii) help farmers diversify their business to reduce carbon emissions from agricultural waste and develop more sustainable produce.","answerText":"Agricultural wastes arise from a wide range of natural and non-natural materials including farm manures, plastics and packaging. My department’s College of Agriculture Food & Rural Enterprises (CAFRE) will continue to deliver education and advice to the agri-food industry on reducing carbon emissions from waste. While manure and slurry is not considered a waste when used as a fertiliser, farmers must continue to comply with the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2019-2022 regulations and will be encouraged to follow guidelines in the Codes of Good Agricultural Practice for the Prevention of Pollution of Water, Air and Soil and Ammonia Emissions. My department will also continue to progress other initiatives including plans to consult on a strategy to reduce ammonia emissions, issuing of Pollution Prevention and Control Farm Permits, promoting use of technologies like low emissions slurry spreading equipment and working with the Greenhouse Gas Implementation Partnership.\n\nMy Department has previously supported investment in Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment (LESSE). This was done through the Manure Efficiency Technology Scheme (METS) and through both tiers of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital (FBIS-C). I am also considering what further support for LESSE could be provided through FBIS-C, taking account of the issues and challenges presented for the farming sector by the COVID-19 situation, and the impact of the easing of lockdown restrictions.\n\nCAFRE will continue to deliver sustainable production knowledge transfer to the agricultural sector, including delivery of new Environmental Business Development Groups (eBDG) focusing on environmentally sustainable farming systems. This new programme will also include a review of carbon emissions that arise from agricultural waste.","answerHtml":"Agricultural wastes arise from a wide range of natural and non-natural materials including farm manures, plastics and packaging. My department’s College of Agriculture Food & Rural Enterprises (CAFRE) will continue to deliver education and advice to the agri-food industry on reducing carbon emissions from waste. While manure and slurry is not considered a waste when used as a fertiliser, farmers must continue to comply with the Nutrients Action Programme (NAP) 2019-2022 regulations and will be encouraged to follow guidelines in the Codes of Good Agricultural Practice for the Prevention of Pollution of Water, Air and Soil and Ammonia Emissions. My department will also continue to progress other initiatives including plans to consult on a strategy to reduce ammonia emissions, issuing of Pollution Prevention and Control Farm Permits, promoting use of technologies like low emissions slurry spreading equipment and working with the Greenhouse Gas Implementation Partnership.
My Department has previously supported investment in Low Emission Slurry Spreading Equipment (LESSE). This was done through the Manure Efficiency Technology Scheme (METS) and through both tiers of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme – Capital (FBIS-C). I am also considering what further support for LESSE could be provided through FBIS-C, taking account of the issues and challenges presented for the farming sector by the COVID-19 situation, and the impact of the easing of lockdown restrictions.
CAFRE will continue to deliver sustainable production knowledge transfer to the agricultural sector, including delivery of new Environmental Business Development Groups (eBDG) focusing on environmentally sustainable farming systems. This new programme will also include a review of carbon emissions that arise from agricultural waste.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206241%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306516"}},{"id":"306515","reference":"AQW 6240/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) how many anaerobic digestors in Northern Ireland utilise bio-methane as a resource for the natural gas market; and (ii) for his assessment of the utilisation of bio-methane from anaerobic digestors as a means to reduce Northern Ireland’s carbon emissions.","answerText":"(i) There are approximately 70 anaerobic digesters in Northern Ireland currently operating and generating biogas. The biogas produced is usually fed to engines for microgeneration on-site to produce electricity which is either used onsite or fed to the grid. The rural locations of most of these anaerobic digesters are remote from the gas network. Therefore, the number currently producing bio-methane as a resource for the natural gas market is likely to be low. A Committee for Climate Change (CCC) report in 2019 stated the less-developed gas network in Northern Ireland means that bio-methane injection to the grid may be more difficult, and anaerobic digestion may be limited to space and process heating or Combined Heat and Power (CHP) microgeneration on-site in locations without easy access to grid injection points.\n\n(ii) Bio-methane from anaerobic digesters is already reducing Northern Ireland’s carbon emissions by offsetting the use of fossil fuels (coal and oil) to produce electricity and heat, although this is likely a modest offset compared to other types of renewable energy generation. Biogas from anaerobic digesters is generally of a lower quality than imported natural gas and needs to be processed/purified to upgrade it to bio-methane.\n\nThere is potential to utilise bio-methane to displace natural gas for heat production and to potentially expand the anaerobic digester industry in Northern Ireland to increase supply. This would have a positive impact on reducing carbon emissions but is likely to require an incentivised scheme for electricity or heat production to make it economically viable due to the high capital expenditure associated with plant construction.\n\nEnvironmental impacts of expanding the anaerobic digester sector on water quality, air quality and potentially on sensitive habitats would also have to be considered.","answerHtml":"(i) There are approximately 70 anaerobic digesters in Northern Ireland currently operating and generating biogas. The biogas produced is usually fed to engines for microgeneration on-site to produce electricity which is either used onsite or fed to the grid. The rural locations of most of these anaerobic digesters are remote from the gas network. Therefore, the number currently producing bio-methane as a resource for the natural gas market is likely to be low. A Committee for Climate Change (CCC) report in 2019 stated the less-developed gas network in Northern Ireland means that bio-methane injection to the grid may be more difficult, and anaerobic digestion may be limited to space and process heating or Combined Heat and Power (CHP) microgeneration on-site in locations without easy access to grid injection points.
(ii) Bio-methane from anaerobic digesters is already reducing Northern Ireland’s carbon emissions by offsetting the use of fossil fuels (coal and oil) to produce electricity and heat, although this is likely a modest offset compared to other types of renewable energy generation. Biogas from anaerobic digesters is generally of a lower quality than imported natural gas and needs to be processed/purified to upgrade it to bio-methane.
There is potential to utilise bio-methane to displace natural gas for heat production and to potentially expand the anaerobic digester industry in Northern Ireland to increase supply. This would have a positive impact on reducing carbon emissions but is likely to require an incentivised scheme for electricity or heat production to make it economically viable due to the high capital expenditure associated with plant construction.
Environmental impacts of expanding the anaerobic digester sector on water quality, air quality and potentially on sensitive habitats would also have to be considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206240%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306515","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306515"}},{"id":"306514","reference":"AQW 6239/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-03","answerBy":"2020-09-18","answered":"2020-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline (i) any issues recruiting veterinarians in Northern Ireland; and (ii) whether he would support a business case demonstrating the need for a veterinarian school in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I am aware of recent reports from the local veterinary associations of practices in both the large animal and companion animal sectors encountering difficulties recruiting veterinarians, all across Northern Ireland. It is not possible to establish the precise quantum locally, but BVA data suggests that the vacancy rate UK-wide exceeds 11%.\n\nWhile, to date, the Department has not encountered significant difficulties in recruiting sufficient Veterinary Inspectors to fully meet its needs, there are increasingly indications that it too may encounter difficulties recruiting further veterinary staff in the near future.\n\nHowever, while supply may be one issue contributing to veterinary practice’s recruitment difficulties, there are a number of other significant issues affecting staff availability, not least the attractiveness of the salary package, job satisfaction and career opportunities available in veterinary jobs compared to the demanding work-life balance and stress levels entailed. Research by the BVA and RCVS has revealed that these are leading to real issues with retention overall, and within the practice sector in particular.\n\nIt has been suggested that the creation of a veterinary school in Northern Ireland would help mitigate both recruitment and retention issues, eg by reducing any net “brain drain” of veterinary under-graduates from here to GB; and by substituting some of the over 50% of the new RCVS registrants who are graduates of non-UK universities. However given the breadth of the existing supply base, and that high vacancy rate is UK-wide, it is unlikely that the establishment of a local veterinary college would act as a “silver bullet” against all the causes underlying the present recruitment and retention issues in veterinary practice in Northern Ireland, and beyond.\n\nThat said, I understand that both Universities in Northern Ireland have shown various degrees of interest in providing veterinary degree course here in Northern Ireland. This interest has so far failed to progress beyond the reality of the business case process, assessing the cost / benefit and value for money of the various options proposed. Should a business case in the future demonstrate that such a facility would deliver sufficient benefits to our local industry and economy, as to confirm its long-term viability, then I would indeed be supportive of the proposal.","answerHtml":"I am aware of recent reports from the local veterinary associations of practices in both the large animal and companion animal sectors encountering difficulties recruiting veterinarians, all across Northern Ireland. It is not possible to establish the precise quantum locally, but BVA data suggests that the vacancy rate UK-wide exceeds 11%.
While, to date, the Department has not encountered significant difficulties in recruiting sufficient Veterinary Inspectors to fully meet its needs, there are increasingly indications that it too may encounter difficulties recruiting further veterinary staff in the near future.
However, while supply may be one issue contributing to veterinary practice’s recruitment difficulties, there are a number of other significant issues affecting staff availability, not least the attractiveness of the salary package, job satisfaction and career opportunities available in veterinary jobs compared to the demanding work-life balance and stress levels entailed. Research by the BVA and RCVS has revealed that these are leading to real issues with retention overall, and within the practice sector in particular.
It has been suggested that the creation of a veterinary school in Northern Ireland would help mitigate both recruitment and retention issues, eg by reducing any net “brain drain” of veterinary under-graduates from here to GB; and by substituting some of the over 50% of the new RCVS registrants who are graduates of non-UK universities. However given the breadth of the existing supply base, and that high vacancy rate is UK-wide, it is unlikely that the establishment of a local veterinary college would act as a “silver bullet” against all the causes underlying the present recruitment and retention issues in veterinary practice in Northern Ireland, and beyond.
That said, I understand that both Universities in Northern Ireland have shown various degrees of interest in providing veterinary degree course here in Northern Ireland. This interest has so far failed to progress beyond the reality of the business case process, assessing the cost / benefit and value for money of the various options proposed. Should a business case in the future demonstrate that such a facility would deliver sufficient benefits to our local industry and economy, as to confirm its long-term viability, then I would indeed be supportive of the proposal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206239%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306514"}},{"id":"306409","reference":"AQW 6166/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-02","answerBy":"2020-09-17","answered":"2020-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of the £15 million deficit created by the multi-campus model of Ulster University; (ii) whether she has any plans to fund this deficit; and (iii) what impact this deficit will have for regional balance of higher education in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I acknowledge Ulster University’s assertion that its multi-campus model gives rise to additional costs, which it estimates to be in the region of £15 million.\n\nUlster University is an autonomous body and as such, its campus locations are a matter for the University. However, my Department is working on reviewing the distributive model used to fund the local institutions through the teaching grant allocation. As part of this work, my Department is looking at ways in which the distributive model can better reflect our strategic aims. Consideration may therefore be given to the development of an approach to funding allocation which also takes into account the costs of delivery.\n\nIn relation to any impact of the additional costs on the regional balance of higher education in Northern Ireland, Ulster University’s finances are managed at an institutional, not campus level, and as an autonomous body, responsibility for the strategic use of these finances lies with the University.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge Ulster University’s assertion that its multi-campus model gives rise to additional costs, which it estimates to be in the region of £15 million.
Ulster University is an autonomous body and as such, its campus locations are a matter for the University. However, my Department is working on reviewing the distributive model used to fund the local institutions through the teaching grant allocation. As part of this work, my Department is looking at ways in which the distributive model can better reflect our strategic aims. Consideration may therefore be given to the development of an approach to funding allocation which also takes into account the costs of delivery.
In relation to any impact of the additional costs on the regional balance of higher education in Northern Ireland, Ulster University’s finances are managed at an institutional, not campus level, and as an autonomous body, responsibility for the strategic use of these finances lies with the University.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206166%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306409"}},{"id":"306408","reference":"AQW 6165/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-02","answerBy":"2020-09-17","answered":"2020-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline (i) the process for primary and post-primary schools if a member of the school tests positive for COVID-19; (ii) what financial and other support will his Department and the Executive provide for schools with a positive case of COVID-19; and (iii) what recommendations he will make to the Executive to support childcare for children who must isolate at home due to COVID-19.","answerText":"In primary and post-primary schools, where a staff member or pupil tests positive for COVID-19, the individual self isolates for at least 10 days in line with the Public Health Agency (PHA) advice. The individual will inform the school of positive test. The individual should co-operate with the Test, Trace, Protect / PHA Contact Tracing Service.\n\nThe school management team will draw up list of potentially exposed contacts and will proactively contact parents to advise potentially exposed individuals to remain at home. The PHA Contact Tracing Service / Health Protection will work with school management to clarify ‘close contacts’ using an agreed pro-forma and provide advice on self-isolation/ next steps. The school management team will complete the ‘Confirmed Covid-19 Case Pro-forma’ (available through C2k and the Education Authority (EA) website) and email it to the EA at a dedicated email address. The School management team will consider implications for staff / pupils at risk and seek further advice if required. If a COVID-19 confirmed case occurs in a statutory setting, the EA Cleaning Service will be notified. The school management team will communicate with the school community as soon as is practicable, to reassure them that safety measures are being taken and that the environment is safe.\n\nThe school management team will make alternative arrangements depending on PHA advice and also consider staffing implications and implications for after school activities. Exceptional Closures should only be applied for when PHA advise a school closure is necessary and after engagement with relevant Managing Authority. The school management team will review internal procedures and risk assessments, and consider any learning that could be applied for future cases.\n\nTo help support schools address many of the new pressures arising as a result of Covid-19, I outlined a significant package of funding to help support the safe reopening of schools, details of which are available on the Department's website.\n\nThe Department, in conjunction with the EA, will continue to monitor funding requirements as schools reopen and as the pandemic progresses, and any school facing financial difficulty should contact the EA as Funding Authority for grant aided schools, in the normal way.\n\nSchools are also supported through dedicated Link Officers who are trained to provide support and guidance in the event of a positive test. Schools can also request support from the EA in terms of cleaning.\n\nWhere a positive case of COVID-19 is identified in a childcare setting, the PHA will offer bespoke advice based on all information available. Employers will need to be fair and reasonable with parents during this time. They will need to show some flexibility if a parent needs to remain at home, because a child is unable to attend childcare due to a suspected, or a positive, case of COVID-19.","answerHtml":"In primary and post-primary schools, where a staff member or pupil tests positive for COVID-19, the individual self isolates for at least 10 days in line with the Public Health Agency (PHA) advice. The individual will inform the school of positive test. The individual should co-operate with the Test, Trace, Protect / PHA Contact Tracing Service.
The school management team will draw up list of potentially exposed contacts and will proactively contact parents to advise potentially exposed individuals to remain at home. The PHA Contact Tracing Service / Health Protection will work with school management to clarify ‘close contacts’ using an agreed pro-forma and provide advice on self-isolation/ next steps. The school management team will complete the ‘Confirmed Covid-19 Case Pro-forma’ (available through C2k and the Education Authority (EA) website) and email it to the EA at a dedicated email address. The School management team will consider implications for staff / pupils at risk and seek further advice if required. If a COVID-19 confirmed case occurs in a statutory setting, the EA Cleaning Service will be notified. The school management team will communicate with the school community as soon as is practicable, to reassure them that safety measures are being taken and that the environment is safe.
The school management team will make alternative arrangements depending on PHA advice and also consider staffing implications and implications for after school activities. Exceptional Closures should only be applied for when PHA advise a school closure is necessary and after engagement with relevant Managing Authority. The school management team will review internal procedures and risk assessments, and consider any learning that could be applied for future cases.
To help support schools address many of the new pressures arising as a result of Covid-19, I outlined a significant package of funding to help support the safe reopening of schools, details of which are available on the Department's website.
The Department, in conjunction with the EA, will continue to monitor funding requirements as schools reopen and as the pandemic progresses, and any school facing financial difficulty should contact the EA as Funding Authority for grant aided schools, in the normal way.
Schools are also supported through dedicated Link Officers who are trained to provide support and guidance in the event of a positive test. Schools can also request support from the EA in terms of cleaning.
Where a positive case of COVID-19 is identified in a childcare setting, the PHA will offer bespoke advice based on all information available. Employers will need to be fair and reasonable with parents during this time. They will need to show some flexibility if a parent needs to remain at home, because a child is unable to attend childcare due to a suspected, or a positive, case of COVID-19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206165%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306408","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306408"}},{"id":"306407","reference":"AQW 6164/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-02","answerBy":"2020-09-17","answered":"2020-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he intends (i) to recommend a postponement of primary seven transfer tests this autumn; and (ii) to instruct post-primary schools to make available their entry criteria for September 2021 as soon as possible anticipating postponement or cancellation.","answerText":"Responsibility for setting the dates of the transfer tests lies with the test providers rather than my Department. You will be aware that the test providers have now announced that the tests have been moved to January 2021.\n\nAdmissions criteria, meanwhile, are a matter for individual Boards of Governors, however my Department is currently working with the Education Authority (EA) to determine the post-primary admissions timetable for 2021 and this timetable will set a deadline for Boards of Governors to supply their criteria for September 2021 admission. This date will allow the EA to publish admissions criteria at least six weeks before the deadline for nominating preferences.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for setting the dates of the transfer tests lies with the test providers rather than my Department. You will be aware that the test providers have now announced that the tests have been moved to January 2021.
Admissions criteria, meanwhile, are a matter for individual Boards of Governors, however my Department is currently working with the Education Authority (EA) to determine the post-primary admissions timetable for 2021 and this timetable will set a deadline for Boards of Governors to supply their criteria for September 2021 admission. This date will allow the EA to publish admissions criteria at least six weeks before the deadline for nominating preferences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206164%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306407","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306407"}},{"id":"306406","reference":"AQW 6163/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-02","answerBy":"2020-09-17","answered":"2020-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy who is financially liable for the loss of earnings suffered by (i) small and medium enterprises; (ii) the newly self-employed; and (iii) sole traders due to government instruction to close their business as a response to COVID-19.","answerText":"Liability is a legal concept and, as such, it falls outwith my remit.","answerHtml":"Liability is a legal concept and, as such, it falls outwith my remit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206163%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306406","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306406"}},{"id":"306405","reference":"AQW 6162/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-09-02","answerBy":"2020-09-17","answered":"2020-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has any plans to extend non-domestic rates relief to businesses operating within the events sector, given their operations remain limited due to ongoing restrictions imposed by the UK Government and the Executive as a response to COVID-19.","answerText":"A 12 month holiday from rates has been granted to business uses within the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors as they were considered to be in greatest need. This includes premises used as concert halls, music halls, public exhibition centres, theatres, sporting premises, recreation grounds and hotels, where in normal times events would take place. I acknowledge that many businesses are facing difficult times, and that is why all businesses were given 4 months rates relief. I have no plans to widen the 12 months relief to include other businesses.\n\nBusinesses which do not qualify for the 12 months rate relief may consider the Hardship Rate Relief scheme, which provides support for businesses and organisations that are in crisis because of an exceptional circumstance and supports by alleviating the business from payment of business rates for a period of time. In order to qualify for this relief, businesses are required to provide Land & Property Services with evidence of a significant loss of trade caused by the exceptional circumstance. Further information on this scheme can be found at the following link:\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/hardship-rate-relief.","answerHtml":"A 12 month holiday from rates has been granted to business uses within the hospitality, leisure and tourism sectors as they were considered to be in greatest need. This includes premises used as concert halls, music halls, public exhibition centres, theatres, sporting premises, recreation grounds and hotels, where in normal times events would take place. I acknowledge that many businesses are facing difficult times, and that is why all businesses were given 4 months rates relief. I have no plans to widen the 12 months relief to include other businesses.
Businesses which do not qualify for the 12 months rate relief may consider the Hardship Rate Relief scheme, which provides support for businesses and organisations that are in crisis because of an exceptional circumstance and supports by alleviating the business from payment of business rates for a period of time. In order to qualify for this relief, businesses are required to provide Land & Property Services with evidence of a significant loss of trade caused by the exceptional circumstance. Further information on this scheme can be found at the following link:
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/hardship-rate-relief.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%206162%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=306405","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=306405"}},{"id":"302915","reference":"AQO 517/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-18","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-30","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what support is being provided to civil servants with COVID-19-related childcare issues to allow them to continue to work from home.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"I appreciate the severe impact that the COVID-19 outbreak has had on childcare availability and the resulting challenges faced by parents who are working from home. NICS has worked hard to support staff to manage their workload against their parental caring responsibilities. Staff are supported with a blend of flexible working arrangements and the use of technology, including the provision of laptops and access to tools such as Webex videoconferencing. An additional 5,750 laptops, around 4,000 reconfigured desktops and 1,400 new mobile devices — tablets and smartphones — have been issued to allow staff to work from home. Flexitime arrangements allow staff working from home to manage how they arrange their working hours to balance commitments. Staff can discuss and agree with their managers, who are in the best position to support them, how domestic arrangements, including childcare, can be managed during these challenging times. Staff may consider applying for special leave, take annual leave or wish to discuss with their manager a temporary change to working patterns or contracted working hours. Managers are very much encouraged to consider all such requests sympathetically."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I am pleased that the Minister was able to put on record the support that is being provided as a response to COVID-19 to enable Northern Ireland civil servants to work from home. As we emerge from the pandemic, I am being contacted by constituents who work for the Northern Ireland Civil Service, who say that they are being asked to come back to work and that childcare arrangements are not being taken into account. Will the Minister provide the NICS COVID-related policy on working from home to the Assembly so that we can provide it to the constituents who are making those queries?"},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"Yes. I appreciate the challenge for people coming back, and that is why we have included childcare in the additional rates relief and why we are looking at childcare as a specific sector for support. There are particular challenges in getting childcare in place, as, of course, if it is not in place, people cannot get back to work. It is a chicken-and-egg thing. It involves more than the Department of Finance, but we have responsibility for NICS. Yes, I am sure that we can publish or make available the guidance to make sure that people are being properly looked after. The instruction to managers in the Civil Service is to be as flexible and as sympathetic as possible and to understand the challenges that people face. I hope that that is the case. If it is not, we are more than happy to hear from them."},{"speaker":"Mr Catney","text":"Mr Deputy Speaker, I think that I owe you an apology for the last time that I was here. I have seen you personally, and I am now making my apology publicly as well. You have a difficult task. I want to ask the Minister about single-person businesses and businesses with an NAV of less than £51,000. We need to give them as much help as possible, not only financially, although that is the greatest help. Can you, when you speak to the Treasury — this is not unlike what my colleague across the way said about VAT — look at deferring the big-ticket payments that businesses find themselves making at the end of the year? It would be a help and would give much comfort to businesses that are struggling to open."},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"I see that an apology is the way to win a non-supplementary question [Laughter.]"},{"speaker":"","text":"I must that remember that trick."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"The Minister may choose to answer the question or not."},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"I appreciate your flexibility, Mr Deputy Speaker. Quite a lot of businesses and MLAs have come to us with the problems facing the business sector. I am particularly keen to hear — I put this out to all MLAs — from people who want us to make representations to the Treasury, as we are the Department that engages directly with it. I have a regular engagement with the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, and my departmental officials engage daily with the Treasury. We have been able to point out to the Treasury things that have not worked properly in relation to some of their early responses — the job retention scheme and some of the loans issues. We have been able to engage with them and say, \"This isn't working here for a variety of reasons\". We have secured some amendments and some more flexibility. Business support is not simply one package; it will be ongoing support. It will be about finding ways of doing things better. An example is the discussions between Infrastructure and Communities about the use of street space and licensing. All those things are important in supporting the hospitality sector. It is not simply a matter of grants; it is a matter of engaging to ensure that things are made easier for business as well."},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"I call Gordon Dunne to ask a supplementary and to connect it to the original question [Laughter.]"},{"speaker":"Mr Dunne","text":"Absolutely. Can the Minister advise us on what measures are being put in place to encourage civil servants back to work? I know that the Minister has touched on it. We want to ensure that they are in a safe, hygienic environment with the necessary adequate supports."},{"speaker":"Mr Murphy","text":"There is a range of measures. One is, as Claire Sugden identified, that childcare is a problem. We have to recognise, now that the childcare sector is not functioning as it was, that it is more difficult for people to access childcare and that that creates a difficulty. There has to be almost a personal engagement with each civil servant by their manager to see the issues that they face. The initial priority was to allow people to work from home, and there was a huge drive towards that through providing people with laptops, smartphones and other devices and through ensuring that people had the technology to contact and engage with the Department to continue meetings and to continue work from home. Of course, the question now is how we get back and how we get more people back in. That will involve a range of measures, including looking at individual circumstances and at childcare. It will also involve looking at where people work from. We had already begun looking at flexi-desks, people working from hubs or satellite arrangements around the country so that people are not spending time in their car or having to travel with other people to and from work if they can work remotely or work from hubs closer to their home. There is a range of measures that will assist people back to work. I do not see us getting back to full offices any time soon. We will have to continue to be flexible and operate a variety of arrangements to get the best value out of our public services that we can. Those will be challenges for every Department. The Department of Finance is here to assist other Departments and their staff in whatever way we can."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20517%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302915","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-06-30&docID=303726#AQO%20517/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302915"}},{"id":"302898","reference":"AQO 500/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-18","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-30","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department plans to support teaching and non-teaching staff to return to the classroom for the 2020-21 academic year.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Weir","text":"My Department's key focus has been to support and secure, as far as possible, the continued learning of pupils at home and in school during the current pandemic and beyond. The major strategy for achieving that will continue to be the production and dissemination of high-quality support and guidance for schools, learners and parents. My Department, in collaboration with the EA, CCMS and CCEA, has collated, developed and disseminated a wide range of resources that will support schools and teachers as they prepare for the new school year. Recent examples include operational guidance on moving to blended learning, feedback and assessment, transition and pupil engagement. My Department has also produced system-level guidance for schools on supporting remote learning and guidance for schools on curriculum planning for 2020-21. The key message of the guidance is that the aim for 2020-21 is to support pupils to be motivated to learn and to become skilled and independent learners through a curriculum that gives equal emphasis to knowledge, understanding and skills. Furthermore, I have directed CCEA to put arrangements in place to ensure that young people can progress to the next stage of their learning with confidence in the qualifications that they have attained. CCEA is also exploring how young people can best be supported in the upcoming year to realise their potential to achieve high-quality qualifications. The COVID-19 situation continues to move rapidly. Further guidance will, therefore, be provided and updated as the context changes."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer. If the current advice remains in September that the distance between teachers and pupils must be two metres, or even if that were reduced to one metre, what challenges would that present for teaching assistants, in particular, who support children with special educational needs in the classroom? If we move towards a classroom bubble, again, how would that work for teaching assistants who may support children across various classrooms?"},{"speaker":"Mr Weir","text":"I will make two points. First, with regard to movement and the extent to which a classroom could be hermetically sealed, particularly for adults, to the extent that there would be no movement, part of the aim of the bubble would be to try to minimise cross-contact, even, for instance, for those at the upper reaches of the school, where a bubble would not necessarily occur. Therefore, the challenge is not simply with the bubble but with minimising movements between classes and indeed, for example, trying to get particular children to be in the same seats as much as possible. Secondly, we are following PHA guidance with regard to teaching assistants specifically. One significant element of that will be the issue of PPE. There is an acceptance that, in general, in most circumstances, teachers would not routinely require PPE, but that some PPE would be available. However, there are those who deal with children with particular special needs or vulnerabilities, or who provide more intimate care of a child. Those are the areas that have been highlighted in the guidance. Again, it will be on the basis of following the PHA guidance. There may well need to be additional protection. The health and safety of our children and the workforce in general will be paramount. We also need to be careful that unnecessary levels of PPE are not used. If, for example, all our teachers were going about routinely in PPE, I suspect that, particularly for younger children, it would not only be unnecessary but it could be quite frightening. It will be about ensuring that what is there and the detail of the guidance that is given is consistent with the public health advice at the time."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20500%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302898","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-06-30&docID=303726#AQO%20500/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302898"}},{"id":"302754","reference":"AQW 4957/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-07-02","answered":"2020-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) to outline their plans to evaluate the Executive's response to COVID-19; (ii) whether they will consider an independent review of the Executive's response to COVID-19; and (iii) whether they will update their government emergency plan following the learning experiences of COVID-19.","answerText":"All actions taken by the Executive in its response to the pandemic have been aimed at securing best outcomes against the three key Executive priorities:\n\n•Health and wellbeing of our citizens\n\n•Our economic wellbeing and preparation to revitalise the economy; and\n\n•Our societal and community well being\n\nAt each stage of the Covid-19 crisis, the Executive has maintained a dynamic approach to its response, putting in place measures appropriate to unique local circumstances and needs.\n\nThe Executive has reviewed its actions in relation to Covid-19 on a regular basis to ensure a holistic view of the state of play for the response phase before moving into the recovery phase.\n\nThe Department of Health (DoH) has an Emergency Response Plan which is reviewed and revised regularly, and at least annually, following major incidents and/or training exercises. DoH will update its Emergency Response Plan to reflect the lessons learned from its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nDuring the operational phase of the NI Hub the following reviews took place:\n\nNI Hub capability Review (April 2020)\n\nMaturity Assessment of the Departmental Operating Centres (DOCs) (April 2020)\n\nReview of the Civil Contingencies Group (NI) (May 2020)\n\nAn independent lessons learned review of the Control Command and Co-ordination (C3) structures was commissioned in May 2020 and is nearing completion. A final report is expected by the end of June 2020.\n\nWork is already ongoing to implement the recommendations from the three completed reviews and further consideration will be given to the recommendations from the C3 lessons learned review, once it completes. In addition, officials will participate in a Devolved Administrations COVID 19 lessons learned exercise in early July.","answerHtml":"All actions taken by the Executive in its response to the pandemic have been aimed at securing best outcomes against the three key Executive priorities:
•Health and wellbeing of our citizens
•Our economic wellbeing and preparation to revitalise the economy; and
•Our societal and community well being
At each stage of the Covid-19 crisis, the Executive has maintained a dynamic approach to its response, putting in place measures appropriate to unique local circumstances and needs.
The Executive has reviewed its actions in relation to Covid-19 on a regular basis to ensure a holistic view of the state of play for the response phase before moving into the recovery phase.
The Department of Health (DoH) has an Emergency Response Plan which is reviewed and revised regularly, and at least annually, following major incidents and/or training exercises. DoH will update its Emergency Response Plan to reflect the lessons learned from its response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
During the operational phase of the NI Hub the following reviews took place:
NI Hub capability Review (April 2020)
Maturity Assessment of the Departmental Operating Centres (DOCs) (April 2020)
Review of the Civil Contingencies Group (NI) (May 2020)
An independent lessons learned review of the Control Command and Co-ordination (C3) structures was commissioned in May 2020 and is nearing completion. A final report is expected by the end of June 2020.
Work is already ongoing to implement the recommendations from the three completed reviews and further consideration will be given to the recommendations from the C3 lessons learned review, once it completes. In addition, officials will participate in a Devolved Administrations COVID 19 lessons learned exercise in early July.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204957%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302754"}},{"id":"302753","reference":"AQW 4956/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-07-02","answered":"2020-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to provide an update on Prisons 2020: The Way Forward.","answerText":"Since the publication of Prisons 2020: The Way Forward in July 2018, NIPS has driven continuous improvement across the organisation. Years One and Two of Prisons 2020 have seen significant progress made towards the strategic commitments across each of the four strands of the programme (People, Services, Infrastructure and Partnerships). These plans contained over 180 deliverables, of which only 5% were not achieved, which has resulted in improvements for both staff and people in our care.\n\nThe programme will run until March 2021 and the Year Three plan has recently been finalised. Copies of the annual delivery plans, along with the corresponding end year reports, are available on the NIPS internet site.","answerHtml":"Since the publication of Prisons 2020: The Way Forward in July 2018, NIPS has driven continuous improvement across the organisation. Years One and Two of Prisons 2020 have seen significant progress made towards the strategic commitments across each of the four strands of the programme (People, Services, Infrastructure and Partnerships). These plans contained over 180 deliverables, of which only 5% were not achieved, which has resulted in improvements for both staff and people in our care.
The programme will run until March 2021 and the Year Three plan has recently been finalised. Copies of the annual delivery plans, along with the corresponding end year reports, are available on the NIPS internet site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204956%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302753","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302753"}},{"id":"302752","reference":"AQW 4955/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-07-02","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to update his advice to those who have received shielding letters.","answerText":"I understand that it has been extremely difficult for those who are shielding. As I emphasised in my statement on 18 May, I believe that it is important that shielding lasts no longer than is deemed clinically necessary.\n\nOn 18 June, the Executive agreed to my proposal that, if the risk continues to be low, shielding can be paused from 31 July 2020. On 22 June, I announced interim easements to the shielding advice which will take effect from the 6 July. From that date, those who are shielding will be able to meet up to six people outside the home, as long as social distancing is strictly observed; and, in addition, people who are shielding and living alone will be able to form a support bubble with one other household. These easements are based on the continuing reduction in the rate of community transmission of the virus in Northern Ireland.\n\nFurther details on these easements are being provided in writing, in the week commencing 22 June, to people who are shielding. This letter also provides further advice and guidance with respect to our plans to put shielding on hold from 31 July.","answerHtml":"I understand that it has been extremely difficult for those who are shielding. As I emphasised in my statement on 18 May, I believe that it is important that shielding lasts no longer than is deemed clinically necessary.
On 18 June, the Executive agreed to my proposal that, if the risk continues to be low, shielding can be paused from 31 July 2020. On 22 June, I announced interim easements to the shielding advice which will take effect from the 6 July. From that date, those who are shielding will be able to meet up to six people outside the home, as long as social distancing is strictly observed; and, in addition, people who are shielding and living alone will be able to form a support bubble with one other household. These easements are based on the continuing reduction in the rate of community transmission of the virus in Northern Ireland.
Further details on these easements are being provided in writing, in the week commencing 22 June, to people who are shielding. This letter also provides further advice and guidance with respect to our plans to put shielding on hold from 31 July.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204955%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302752","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302752"}},{"id":"302751","reference":"AQW 4954/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-07-02","answered":"2020-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline his plans to resume day opportunities for adults with learning disabilities across all Health and Social Care Trusts following the response to COVID-19.","answerText":"Detailed planning is underway for the resumption of services, including day opportunities, for people with learning disabilities. Service recovery will take place in a phased and regionally consistent manner, informed by a range of factors including COVID-19 transmission levels and guidance on infection prevention. Engagement with providers and families across all Trusts on this issue is continuing.","answerHtml":"Detailed planning is underway for the resumption of services, including day opportunities, for people with learning disabilities. Service recovery will take place in a phased and regionally consistent manner, informed by a range of factors including COVID-19 transmission levels and guidance on infection prevention. Engagement with providers and families across all Trusts on this issue is continuing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204954%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302751"}},{"id":"302750","reference":"AQW 4953/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-17","answerBy":"2020-07-02","answered":"2020-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what support has been offered to carers of adults with learning disabilities during the response to COVID-19.","answerText":"My Department has continued to support the needs of carers across all programmes of care during the response to COVID-19. A range of support has been provided as evidenced during carers’ week from 8-14 June 2020. This includes, but is not limited to, activities and resources provided online for adult and young carers to help maintain good mental health and emotional wellbeing; fun activities; cooking; sewing; quizzes; exercise classes; and opportunities to share and facilitate peer contact and support.\n\nI have attached further details of initiatives and support provided during the pandemic.\n\nFURTHER INITIATIVES AND SUPPORT PROVIDED DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC\n\nAdvice for Informal (Unpaid) Carers and Young Carers during Covid-19 Pandemic was published by my Department on 10 April 2020 and subsequently updated on 22 May and 8 June. This guidance, developed in collaboration with the HSCB, HSCTs and Carers NI, includes a number of resources for managing stress, mental health and emotional well-being. It also includes links and contacts that are helpful to carers and young carers. The guidance can be accessed at the following link:www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/advice-informal-unpaid-carers-and-young-carers-during-covid-19-pandemic\n\nA fortnightly forum has been established during COVID-19 to obtain feedback from HSC Trusts and voluntary sector organisations regarding the needs of young and adult carers.\n\nA Carers ID Card was launched on 8 June 2020 granting unpaid carers access to priority in-store shopping at a range of major supermarkets across Northern Ireland.\n\nCOVID-19: Regional Principles for Visiting in Care Settings in Northern Ireland was published by my Department on 30 June 2020\n\nin response to requests by carers of adults with learning disabilities. The guidance can be accessed at the following link:\n\nwww.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-visiting-guidance\n\nGuidance on the use of Direct Payments during COVID-19 currently is being developed by my Department in consultation with service users and HSC Trusts.\n\nEngagement has been ongoing between the HSC Trusts, carers and service users for planning for reopening a range of facilities based services that had been stood down to protect the health of people using the service.\n\nHSC Trusts have redeployed their staff resource to provide alternative support to vulnerable service users and families on a risk assessed basis delivered within COVID-19 guidelines. Children’s short breaks services including residential care, while impacted by COVID-19, have continued to provide support to families. Residential access has been based on an assessment of need with specific priority assigned to those children and families where there is a high risk of family breakdown. This, however, remains predicated on the need to adhere to the public health guidance and RQIA direction in line with NI Executive decisions on settings such as child care /early years centres.The HSCB/PHA have also been working with the Education Authority/ Department of Education to have special schools reopened for children with the most complex needs.Throughout the lockdown period, family support hubs have continued to function in their role of supporting parents, carers and children.","answerHtml":"My Department has continued to support the needs of carers across all programmes of care during the response to COVID-19. A range of support has been provided as evidenced during carers’ week from 8-14 June 2020. This includes, but is not limited to, activities and resources provided online for adult and young carers to help maintain good mental health and emotional wellbeing; fun activities; cooking; sewing; quizzes; exercise classes; and opportunities to share and facilitate peer contact and support.
I have attached further details of initiatives and support provided during the pandemic.
FURTHER INITIATIVES AND SUPPORT PROVIDED DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC
Advice for Informal (Unpaid) Carers and Young Carers during Covid-19 Pandemic was published by my Department on 10 April 2020 and subsequently updated on 22 May and 8 June. This guidance, developed in collaboration with the HSCB, HSCTs and Carers NI, includes a number of resources for managing stress, mental health and emotional well-being. It also includes links and contacts that are helpful to carers and young carers. The guidance can be accessed at the following link:www.health-ni.gov.uk/publications/advice-informal-unpaid-carers-and-young-carers-during-covid-19-pandemic
A fortnightly forum has been established during COVID-19 to obtain feedback from HSC Trusts and voluntary sector organisations regarding the needs of young and adult carers.
A Carers ID Card was launched on 8 June 2020 granting unpaid carers access to priority in-store shopping at a range of major supermarkets across Northern Ireland.
COVID-19: Regional Principles for Visiting in Care Settings in Northern Ireland was published by my Department on 30 June 2020
in response to requests by carers of adults with learning disabilities. The guidance can be accessed at the following link:
www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-visiting-guidance
Guidance on the use of Direct Payments during COVID-19 currently is being developed by my Department in consultation with service users and HSC Trusts.
Engagement has been ongoing between the HSC Trusts, carers and service users for planning for reopening a range of facilities based services that had been stood down to protect the health of people using the service.
HSC Trusts have redeployed their staff resource to provide alternative support to vulnerable service users and families on a risk assessed basis delivered within COVID-19 guidelines. Children’s short breaks services including residential care, while impacted by COVID-19, have continued to provide support to families. Residential access has been based on an assessment of need with specific priority assigned to those children and families where there is a high risk of family breakdown. This, however, remains predicated on the need to adhere to the public health guidance and RQIA direction in line with NI Executive decisions on settings such as child care /early years centres.The HSCB/PHA have also been working with the Education Authority/ Department of Education to have special schools reopened for children with the most complex needs.Throughout the lockdown period, family support hubs have continued to function in their role of supporting parents, carers and children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204953%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302750"}},{"id":"302654","reference":"AQW 4897/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-16","answerBy":"2020-07-01","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to outline reasons why GPs were unable to provide non-emergency care for patients, including remotely via telephone or videoconferencing; (ii) when he expects GPs will be able to resume routine appointments; (iii) for his assessment of the impact of those accessing appointments when routine appointments resume; and (iv) how he will support primary care providers so that patients can access an appointment as soon as possible.","answerText":"As independent contractors, who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services, GPs have a responsibility to provide core services to their registered patients and the current COVID-19 pandemic does not in any way negate this requirement.\n\nGeneral practice has rapidly changed the way it works in order to cope with the current Covid-19 emergency and, as part of their business continuity planning, GP practices are operating a telephone triage led system. Telephone triage allows patients to continue to seek medical advice for both routine and urgent problems from the GP practice. The GP then uses their clinical judgement to decide whether the patient can be safely managed over the telephone or needs a face to face appointment.\n\nGP practices will provide face to face appointments (including home visits) for those patients who are assessed as requiring them and all practices have been provided with a supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to allow them to safely provide these necessary face to face appointments.\n\nThis ensures that patients are only required to visit surgeries where is it absolutely essential.","answerHtml":"As independent contractors, who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services, GPs have a responsibility to provide core services to their registered patients and the current COVID-19 pandemic does not in any way negate this requirement.
General practice has rapidly changed the way it works in order to cope with the current Covid-19 emergency and, as part of their business continuity planning, GP practices are operating a telephone triage led system. Telephone triage allows patients to continue to seek medical advice for both routine and urgent problems from the GP practice. The GP then uses their clinical judgement to decide whether the patient can be safely managed over the telephone or needs a face to face appointment.
GP practices will provide face to face appointments (including home visits) for those patients who are assessed as requiring them and all practices have been provided with a supply of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to allow them to safely provide these necessary face to face appointments.
This ensures that patients are only required to visit surgeries where is it absolutely essential.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204897%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302654"}},{"id":"302653","reference":"AQW 4896/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-16","answerBy":"2020-07-01","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how he will financially support dentists to ensure they can operate safely when they resume non-emergency appointments.","answerText":"In light of the risks due to Covid-19, non-urgent dental care had been suspended in Northern Ireland since March 2020. This has resulted in a significant reduction in the normal Item of Service (IoS) payments to General Dental Practitioners (GDPs). In response, the Financial Support Scheme (FSS) was established as a temporary measure to reduce the risk to the financial viability of the service.\n\nFSS payments worth £12 million have been made to GDPs over the past three months in addition to £3 million in IoS payments.\n\nIn order to support dentists as they resume non-urgent dental care from 29 June 2020, GDPs will continue to be able to apply for additional FSS support in respect of their July and August 2020 IoS payments. For the remainder of 2020-21 the Department of Health will provide GDPs with ongoing financial support, within the available budget, to support the delivery of dental care.","answerHtml":"In light of the risks due to Covid-19, non-urgent dental care had been suspended in Northern Ireland since March 2020. This has resulted in a significant reduction in the normal Item of Service (IoS) payments to General Dental Practitioners (GDPs). In response, the Financial Support Scheme (FSS) was established as a temporary measure to reduce the risk to the financial viability of the service.
FSS payments worth £12 million have been made to GDPs over the past three months in addition to £3 million in IoS payments.
In order to support dentists as they resume non-urgent dental care from 29 June 2020, GDPs will continue to be able to apply for additional FSS support in respect of their July and August 2020 IoS payments. For the remainder of 2020-21 the Department of Health will provide GDPs with ongoing financial support, within the available budget, to support the delivery of dental care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204896%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302653"}},{"id":"302652","reference":"AQW 4895/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-16","answerBy":"2020-07-01","answered":"2020-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how she is supporting the community and voluntary sector to resume services, including services within community centres.","answerText":"My department is working with regional and grassroots community and voluntary organisations though the Emergencies Leadership Group, established by Deirdre Hargey, to identify the full range of issues to be addressed and the support that will be needed as part of a shared Recovery and Renewal Plan for the Sector. This work covers both practical issues around how we move out of the current emergency response situation as well as the longer term support required for sustainability of the Sector.\n\nIn addition, officials are engaging with local councils with responsibility for community centres to provide any guidance required to support the safe delivery of services in line with social distancing measures, as restrictions are eased.","answerHtml":"My department is working with regional and grassroots community and voluntary organisations though the Emergencies Leadership Group, established by Deirdre Hargey, to identify the full range of issues to be addressed and the support that will be needed as part of a shared Recovery and Renewal Plan for the Sector. This work covers both practical issues around how we move out of the current emergency response situation as well as the longer term support required for sustainability of the Sector.
In addition, officials are engaging with local councils with responsibility for community centres to provide any guidance required to support the safe delivery of services in line with social distancing measures, as restrictions are eased.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204895%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302652"}},{"id":"302651","reference":"AQW 4894/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-16","answerBy":"2020-07-01","answered":"2020-06-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy, further to her announcement to allow the reopening of public houses, bars, restaurants, cafes and coffee shops from 3 July 2020, whether she will consider reopening of sports and social clubs with similar restrictions.","answerText":"This is not within the remit of my Department.","answerHtml":"This is not within the remit of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204894%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302651"}},{"id":"302650","reference":"AQW 4893/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-16","answerBy":"2020-07-01","answered":"2020-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has any plans to engage local government to provide summer schemes to support childcare for older children.","answerText":"I have announced plans for summer schemes to make provision for vulnerable children and the children of key workers. These schemes will be provided in conjunction with summer programmes delivered by voluntary youth organisations and uniformed organisations.\n\nThese plans have been made taking account of current public health restraints.\n\nThe decision on summer schemes is intended to be permissive to organisations providing they are following health advice, so it would be open to Councils to consider what actions they take over the summer.","answerHtml":"I have announced plans for summer schemes to make provision for vulnerable children and the children of key workers. These schemes will be provided in conjunction with summer programmes delivered by voluntary youth organisations and uniformed organisations.
These plans have been made taking account of current public health restraints.
The decision on summer schemes is intended to be permissive to organisations providing they are following health advice, so it would be open to Councils to consider what actions they take over the summer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204893%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302650"}},{"id":"302586","reference":"AQW 4845/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he has any plans to extend the targeted one year rates relief to businesses who do not currently pay business rates; and why he has not extended rates relief to domestic rates customers whose home is intrinsically linked to their business.","answerText":"The targeted rate relief scheme will remove the burden of rates this year from those businesses who are liable for business rates and who the research has identified are hardest hit by the pandemic. If a property is not liable for business rates then business rates reliefs cannot apply. Domestic premises are subject to domestic rates, as the name implies, and not businesses rates. I cannot extend the scope of business rates reliefs to those who currently do not pay business rates.","answerHtml":"The targeted rate relief scheme will remove the burden of rates this year from those businesses who are liable for business rates and who the research has identified are hardest hit by the pandemic. If a property is not liable for business rates then business rates reliefs cannot apply. Domestic premises are subject to domestic rates, as the name implies, and not businesses rates. I cannot extend the scope of business rates reliefs to those who currently do not pay business rates.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204845%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302586","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302586"}},{"id":"302585","reference":"AQW 4844/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to recommend an increase of student places to the Department for the Economy for the number of pharmacists being trained.","answerText":"My Department has commissioned a review of the pharmacy workforce which is expected to be published in the near future and actions related to the number of undergraduate places will be considered during its implementation.","answerHtml":"My Department has commissioned a review of the pharmacy workforce which is expected to be published in the near future and actions related to the number of undergraduate places will be considered during its implementation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204844%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302585"}},{"id":"302584","reference":"AQW 4843/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the safety risk to both patients and pharmacists from the shortage of community pharmacists.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), as commissioner of community pharmacy services, has advised that community pharmacies are continuing to provide pharmaceutical services in both a professional and safe manner and it is not aware of any apparent known safety risks to patients or pharmacists as a consequence of a shortage of community pharmacists in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn accordance with the professional standards of conduct, ethics and performance for pharmacists in Northern Ireland, a community pharmacist would be professionally obligated to notify the HSCB immediately should they ever become unable to deliver pharmaceutical services in a manner that was both safe to them and their patients.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), as commissioner of community pharmacy services, has advised that community pharmacies are continuing to provide pharmaceutical services in both a professional and safe manner and it is not aware of any apparent known safety risks to patients or pharmacists as a consequence of a shortage of community pharmacists in Northern Ireland.
In accordance with the professional standards of conduct, ethics and performance for pharmacists in Northern Ireland, a community pharmacist would be professionally obligated to notify the HSCB immediately should they ever become unable to deliver pharmaceutical services in a manner that was both safe to them and their patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204843%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302584","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302584"}},{"id":"302583","reference":"AQW 4842/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the Community Pharmacy Workforce Survey Report 2019; and whether there is improvement on the 320 community pharmacist deficit estimated last year.","answerText":"My Department recognises the importance of ensuring that the pharmacy workforce has the capacity and capability to support the challenges faced by the HSC. For that reason prior to the pandemic, a formal review of the pharmacy workforce had been completed. Although progress was interrupted by coronavirus, it is the intention to re-start this work and to publish the review with an implementation plan, in the coming months, subject to COVID-19.\n\nIn respect of pharmacist numbers, the review found that there was no way of accurately assessing need in community pharmacies, unlike Trusts where vacancies are monitored. It is the intention to address this during implementation of the review with a proposal to develop a structured process to monitor current and projected workforce needs in all sectors.\n\nIn the absence of a robust method of analysis I am unable to comment on the 2019 deficit figures quoted in the independently commissioned community pharmacy review undertaken by Community Pharmacy NI. However, you will be aware that a range of interventions were made to support community pharmacy in recent months in their response to COVID-19.\n\nIn addition to significant additional funding, a number of short term actions were taken that aimed to support the workforce. This included the re-registration of recently retired pharmacists, promotion of locums, delay of general practice pharmacist commencement dates, protected lunch breaks, engagement of pharmacy undergraduates, foundation dental students and the community and voluntary sector. The implementation of the Department’s pharmacy workforce review will build on this to drive longer term change.","answerHtml":"My Department recognises the importance of ensuring that the pharmacy workforce has the capacity and capability to support the challenges faced by the HSC. For that reason prior to the pandemic, a formal review of the pharmacy workforce had been completed. Although progress was interrupted by coronavirus, it is the intention to re-start this work and to publish the review with an implementation plan, in the coming months, subject to COVID-19.
In respect of pharmacist numbers, the review found that there was no way of accurately assessing need in community pharmacies, unlike Trusts where vacancies are monitored. It is the intention to address this during implementation of the review with a proposal to develop a structured process to monitor current and projected workforce needs in all sectors.
In the absence of a robust method of analysis I am unable to comment on the 2019 deficit figures quoted in the independently commissioned community pharmacy review undertaken by Community Pharmacy NI. However, you will be aware that a range of interventions were made to support community pharmacy in recent months in their response to COVID-19.
In addition to significant additional funding, a number of short term actions were taken that aimed to support the workforce. This included the re-registration of recently retired pharmacists, promotion of locums, delay of general practice pharmacist commencement dates, protected lunch breaks, engagement of pharmacy undergraduates, foundation dental students and the community and voluntary sector. The implementation of the Department’s pharmacy workforce review will build on this to drive longer term change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204842%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302583","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302583"}},{"id":"302582","reference":"AQW 4841/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-15","answerBy":"2020-06-30","answered":"2020-07-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for an update on recruitment of pharmacists into GP practices; and what impact GP-based pharmacy recruitment will have on staffing levels within community pharmacy.","answerText":"Since 2016 Practice Based Pharmacists (PBPs) have been recruited over 5 waves. At January 2020 there were 274 pharmacists (233 whole time equivalent (WTE)) in post in GP practices across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe sixth wave of recruitment for PBPs was carried out in February 2020 but implementation of this final wave has been delayed and it is now anticipated that the majority of wave 6 staff will take up post in September 2020.\n\nThis will bring the total to approximately 330 pharmacists (281 WTE) and will cover every GP practice in Northern Ireland equating to approximately 1 WTE PBP per 6,500 patients.\n\nData provided to the Department, to inform the development of the Pharmacy Workforce Review which is currently being finalised, demonstrates that a minority of pharmacists who have left community pharmacy in recent years have been recruited into general practice, with significant movement to take up posts in hospital practice or in the Republic of Ireland or Great Britain.\n\nThe Pharmacy Workforce Review found that, unlike for HSC Trusts, there is currently no way of accurately assessing need in community pharmacies. It is intended that this will be addressed during the implementation of the Review with a proposal to develop a structured process to monitor current and projected workforce needs in all sectors.","answerHtml":"Since 2016 Practice Based Pharmacists (PBPs) have been recruited over 5 waves. At January 2020 there were 274 pharmacists (233 whole time equivalent (WTE)) in post in GP practices across Northern Ireland.
The sixth wave of recruitment for PBPs was carried out in February 2020 but implementation of this final wave has been delayed and it is now anticipated that the majority of wave 6 staff will take up post in September 2020.
This will bring the total to approximately 330 pharmacists (281 WTE) and will cover every GP practice in Northern Ireland equating to approximately 1 WTE PBP per 6,500 patients.
Data provided to the Department, to inform the development of the Pharmacy Workforce Review which is currently being finalised, demonstrates that a minority of pharmacists who have left community pharmacy in recent years have been recruited into general practice, with significant movement to take up posts in hospital practice or in the Republic of Ireland or Great Britain.
The Pharmacy Workforce Review found that, unlike for HSC Trusts, there is currently no way of accurately assessing need in community pharmacies. It is intended that this will be addressed during the implementation of the Review with a proposal to develop a structured process to monitor current and projected workforce needs in all sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204841%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=302582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=302582"}},{"id":"301870","reference":"AQO 437/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-06-04","answerBy":"2020-06-16","answered":"2020-06-16","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of the Executive's public communications relating to COVID-19.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Foster (The First Minister)","text":"The Executive launched a high-impact public information campaign in March to help to prevent the spread of the coronavirus and save lives. That included a leaflet drop to every home in Northern Ireland. The first phase of the campaign encouraged citizens to stay at home, keep their distance and wash their hands, and the Executive recently launched the second phase of the campaign, which urges citizens to \"Stay Safe; Save Lives\" and \"Work Safe; Save Lives\". Advertising has appeared in local daily, weekly and Sunday newspapers and on television, radio, outdoor and digital."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I really want to be generous because I recognise the unprecedented situation that the last number of months have brought; however, I will say that Executive communications have been limited in that they have failed to understand the needs of the audience and what they can comprehend. Each new announcement has brought so much confusion and anxiety and, in some cases, disregard for the restrictions being announced. We can remove that by improving our communications. As a learning experience, moving forward, not just for communications related to COVID-19 but for communications from government generally, will the First Minister commit to a review of the communications strategy with the aim of trying to improve our communications so that they reach and get the message across to the intended audience?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"I know that the Member has a background in marketing and some expertise in the area. We carried out a point-in-time review of the entirety of the COVID-19 strategy. That was on 4 June, and it looked at all the issues in the strategy. I hear what she says about communications, but we have committed to a daily press conference. That has now become something of a staple for a lot of our journalists, where they have the opportunity to directly ask questions and supplementaries of whichever Minister is there at the time. The deputy First Minister and I are now committing to two of those per week, and other Ministers appear at the rest of the press conferences. Really, it is about speaking directly to the public to seek the partnership that, we think, is necessary to continue compliance on COVID-19. We recognise that there are many who want to move faster in lifting lockdown. There are some who have contacted us who want to go more slowly in lifting lockdown. We have to balance all the risks that are put in front of us and try to move appropriately. We use the press conferences and, indeed, all the other methods of communication to try to get across to people why we are taking the decisions and what the impact of those decisions is and that they should then go to nidirect, which is the government website, where there is guidance that has been put out by the various Departments. I hear what the Member says. We will, of course, look at an overall review of the issue as well as our comms strategy, but I thank her for her interest in the matter."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20437%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301870","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2020-06-16&docID=302204#AQO%20437/17-22","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301870"}},{"id":"301123","reference":"AQW 4162/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-18","answerBy":"2020-06-03","answered":"2020-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether the sole employee of a business who is the company director or owner of that business, and is not paid through PAYE, is able to access the NI Micro-Business Hardship Fund.","answerText":"A key criteria for eligibility of the NI Micro-Business Hardship Fund is that, at 29 February 2020, the business must have employed between one and nine employees paid via PAYE. Businesses where the sole employee is the business owner or company director are not eligible for this scheme.\n\nA full list of eligibility criteria can be found at: https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/node/23445","answerHtml":"A key criteria for eligibility of the NI Micro-Business Hardship Fund is that, at 29 February 2020, the business must have employed between one and nine employees paid via PAYE. Businesses where the sole employee is the business owner or company director are not eligible for this scheme.
A full list of eligibility criteria can be found at: https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/node/23445
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204162%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301123"}},{"id":"301122","reference":"AQW 4161/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-18","answerBy":"2020-06-03","answered":"2020-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether her Department is developing a discretionary fund to support those businesses who are unable to access the current financial supports announced as a response to COVID-19.","answerText":"On 28th March 2020, the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, announced a series of enhanced containment measures, agreed by the Executive, designed to restrict the spread of the Coronavirus.\n\nIn addition, the Executive and the UK Government have since introduced a number of interventions and packages of financial support to help those who have been affected by the consequences of COVID-19. These include but are not limited to the following:\n\nBusiness Grants Schemes;\n\nSelf-Employment Income Support Scheme;\n\nJob Retention Scheme;\n\nCoronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme;\n\nCoronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme; and\n\nRelief packages with non-domestic Rates\n\nOn 16th May 2020, I announced a new ‘Hardship Fund’ to help Northern Ireland based micro-businesses and social enterprises who meet the criteria and who have been unable to access other regional and national support measures. My Department will make up to £40 million available through this fund, which is being administered by Invest Northern Ireland.\n\nDetails of the Hardship Fund including the eligibility checker have been published on the NI Business Info website: https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-ni-micro-business-hardship-fund\n\nInformation on all of current and evolving support options are being updated continuously at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk. In addition, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, provides advice and guidance for small businesses and organisations experiencing difficulties during this challenging period.\n\nDespite government’s best efforts, and the significant funding that has been made available in such a short period of time, I do understand that some businesses, employers, organisations and individuals have been unable to avail of all or some of the support options thus far, nor do I underestimate how difficult a time this is for all concerned.\n\nThere are no plans at this time to set up an additional Discretionary Fund at this time, however, I can assure you that I, along with my Executive colleagues, continue to examine and pursue further means to support the local economy in whatever way possible.\n\nMost recently, the Finance Minister announced on 19th May 2020 additional help with paying Non Domestic Rates including an extended rates holiday for the sectors hardest hit by this pandemic.","answerHtml":"On 28th March 2020, the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, announced a series of enhanced containment measures, agreed by the Executive, designed to restrict the spread of the Coronavirus.
In addition, the Executive and the UK Government have since introduced a number of interventions and packages of financial support to help those who have been affected by the consequences of COVID-19. These include but are not limited to the following:
Business Grants Schemes;
Self-Employment Income Support Scheme;
Job Retention Scheme;
Coronavirus Business Interruption Loan Scheme;
Coronavirus Large Business Interruption Loan Scheme; and
Relief packages with non-domestic Rates
On 16th May 2020, I announced a new ‘Hardship Fund’ to help Northern Ireland based micro-businesses and social enterprises who meet the criteria and who have been unable to access other regional and national support measures. My Department will make up to £40 million available through this fund, which is being administered by Invest Northern Ireland.
Details of the Hardship Fund including the eligibility checker have been published on the NI Business Info website: https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/coronavirus-ni-micro-business-hardship-fund
Information on all of current and evolving support options are being updated continuously at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk. In addition, the Consumer Council for Northern Ireland, provides advice and guidance for small businesses and organisations experiencing difficulties during this challenging period.
Despite government’s best efforts, and the significant funding that has been made available in such a short period of time, I do understand that some businesses, employers, organisations and individuals have been unable to avail of all or some of the support options thus far, nor do I underestimate how difficult a time this is for all concerned.
There are no plans at this time to set up an additional Discretionary Fund at this time, however, I can assure you that I, along with my Executive colleagues, continue to examine and pursue further means to support the local economy in whatever way possible.
Most recently, the Finance Minister announced on 19th May 2020 additional help with paying Non Domestic Rates including an extended rates holiday for the sectors hardest hit by this pandemic.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204161%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301122"}},{"id":"301121","reference":"AQW 4160/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-18","answerBy":"2020-06-03","answered":"2020-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) to outline his engagement with academically-selected post-primary schools regarding transfer tests in autumn 2020; (ii) whether he has considered cancelling the transfer tests in 2020 as a response to COVID-19; and (iii) to outline the reasons why the transfer test cannot be delayed longer than two weeks.","answerText":"Neither I nor my Department have had any direct engagement with post-primary schools regarding the transfer tests. Any engagement or decisions regarding the organisation, timing or cancellation of the tests is ultimately a matter for schools and the test providers and my Department has no role in those decisions. However, I understand that the test providers engaged with a number of schools in considering their proposals for the tests in 2020.\n\nThe tests fit into an overall timetable for the post-primary transfer process which applies to all young people transferring regardless of whether or not they sit the tests. The timing of when the tests are taken is not as significant as the timing of the issue of test results. This, however, is a matter for the test providers and I am unable to intervene in their internal processes. Were results not to issue until mid-March the result would be that placement letters would not issue until the summer holidays and admissions appeals hearings would run well past the start of term in September 2021.","answerHtml":"Neither I nor my Department have had any direct engagement with post-primary schools regarding the transfer tests. Any engagement or decisions regarding the organisation, timing or cancellation of the tests is ultimately a matter for schools and the test providers and my Department has no role in those decisions. However, I understand that the test providers engaged with a number of schools in considering their proposals for the tests in 2020.
The tests fit into an overall timetable for the post-primary transfer process which applies to all young people transferring regardless of whether or not they sit the tests. The timing of when the tests are taken is not as significant as the timing of the issue of test results. This, however, is a matter for the test providers and I am unable to intervene in their internal processes. Were results not to issue until mid-March the result would be that placement letters would not issue until the summer holidays and admissions appeals hearings would run well past the start of term in September 2021.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204160%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301121"}},{"id":"301050","reference":"AQW 4140/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-15","answerBy":"2020-06-02","answered":"2021-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, after the NI Executive actions steps of Coronavirus Executive Approach to Decision-Making, whether the public can be challenged by the Police Service of Northern Ireland under the ‘Restrictions on Movement’ within The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2020.","answerText":"The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, as amended, detail the restrictions that have been imposed in response to the serious and imminent threat to public health posed by the incidence and spread of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in Northern Ireland. Any person who contravenes a restriction regulation commits an offence and can be challenged by the Police Service of Northern Ireland.\n\nRegulation 7, Enforcement of requirement, details the powers a relevant person has available to them in order to enforce any requirement imposed by regulations.\n\n”relevant person” means—\n\n(a) a constable, or\n\n(b) a person designated by the Department of Health for the purposes of these regulations other than regulation 9;","answerHtml":"The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2020, as amended, detail the restrictions that have been imposed in response to the serious and imminent threat to public health posed by the incidence and spread of coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) in Northern Ireland. Any person who contravenes a restriction regulation commits an offence and can be challenged by the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
Regulation 7, Enforcement of requirement, details the powers a relevant person has available to them in order to enforce any requirement imposed by regulations.
”relevant person” means—
(a) a constable, or
(b) a person designated by the Department of Health for the purposes of these regulations other than regulation 9;
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204140%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301050"}},{"id":"301049","reference":"AQW 4139/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-15","answerBy":"2020-06-02","answered":"2020-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, once steps within the Coronavirus Executive Approach to Decision-Making are actioned by the NI Executive, do these instructions supersede The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2020, or will he be required to amend these regulations.","answerText":"The NI Executive Coronavirus Executive Approach to Decision-Making sets out the approach that the Executive will adopt in the regular reviews of the Coronavirus Regulations. Any decision by the Executive to relax an existing restriction will require an amendment to the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2020.","answerHtml":"The NI Executive Coronavirus Executive Approach to Decision-Making sets out the approach that the Executive will adopt in the regular reviews of the Coronavirus Regulations. Any decision by the Executive to relax an existing restriction will require an amendment to the Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204139%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301049"}},{"id":"301048","reference":"AQW 4138/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-15","answerBy":"2020-06-02","answered":"2021-08-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health when he, or his Department, will issue direction to terminate the (i) emergency period; (ii) restrictions and/or; (iii) requirements imposed by The Health Protection (Coronavirus, Restrictions) (Northern Ireland) Regulations 2020.","answerText":"TEO holds the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations. This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Executive, when making decisions on easing restrictions and the impact on the R-rate, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own or alternatively the easements of these. Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence.","answerHtml":"TEO holds the lead responsibility and operational management of the process leading to Executive decisions on the ongoing need for restrictions and the requirement to amend the regulations. This responsibility includes receiving and managing all proposals from Executive departments, management of the decision making process and facilitating consultation with departments on the drafting of amendment regulations.
The Northern Ireland Executive, when making decisions on easing restrictions and the impact on the R-rate, takes into account the scientific and medical evidence. It is not always possible to disaggregate the precise impact on the rate of transmission of the virus in the community for each of the individual restrictions on their own or alternatively the easements of these. Scientific evidence used by the Executive for decision making purposes is now publically available: https://www.health-ni.gov.uk/covid-19-scientific-evidence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204138%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=301048","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=301048"}},{"id":"300964","reference":"AQW 4110/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-13","answerBy":"2020-05-29","answered":"2020-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities (i) to explain the two-child rule regarding universal credit and working tax credit; (ii) to outline the changes to the rule from February 2019; (iii) whether she has any plans to lobby for a change of this policy with the UK Government; and (iv) whether she has discretion to implement this policy differently in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"From 6 April 2017, the British Government imposed a limit on support for a maximum of two children, referred to as “the two-child policy” stating a rationale that families in receipt of means-tested benefits should face the same financial choices about having children as those supporting themselves solely through work.\n\nIn February 2019, following an announcement in December 2018 by the Secretary of Work and Pensions, changes to the policy and the legislation were applied for families with 3 or more children to continue to receive an additional amount of Universal Credit for all children born before 6 April 2017.\n\nIn A Fresh Start: The Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan, the Executive agreed that Westminster would bring forward legislation to provide for the introduction of those welfare changes introduced in Britain. The Welfare Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 2015 was subsequently made which made provision for the delivery of Welfare Reform here including the introduction of new benefits including Universal Credit. Under Article 4 of the 2015 Order, the powers to make subordinate legislation to implement the various welfare reforms, including the two child policy, are vested in the Secretary of State (for Work and Pensions). Until such times as those powers are transferred back to the Department, it is not in my power to make changes to the two child policy, however, I have consistently made it clear to the British Government that I have significant concerns about this policy.\n\nIn the New Decade, New Approach Deal the Executive committed to an urgent review of the welfare mitigation measures. It is anticipated that this review will consider the issue of mitigating the two child policy. My Department is currently developing proposals for the review and details will be announced once they have been agreed by the Executive.","answerHtml":"From 6 April 2017, the British Government imposed a limit on support for a maximum of two children, referred to as “the two-child policy” stating a rationale that families in receipt of means-tested benefits should face the same financial choices about having children as those supporting themselves solely through work.
In February 2019, following an announcement in December 2018 by the Secretary of Work and Pensions, changes to the policy and the legislation were applied for families with 3 or more children to continue to receive an additional amount of Universal Credit for all children born before 6 April 2017.
In A Fresh Start: The Stormont House Agreement and Implementation Plan, the Executive agreed that Westminster would bring forward legislation to provide for the introduction of those welfare changes introduced in Britain. The Welfare Reform (Northern Ireland) Order 2015 was subsequently made which made provision for the delivery of Welfare Reform here including the introduction of new benefits including Universal Credit. Under Article 4 of the 2015 Order, the powers to make subordinate legislation to implement the various welfare reforms, including the two child policy, are vested in the Secretary of State (for Work and Pensions). Until such times as those powers are transferred back to the Department, it is not in my power to make changes to the two child policy, however, I have consistently made it clear to the British Government that I have significant concerns about this policy.
In the New Decade, New Approach Deal the Executive committed to an urgent review of the welfare mitigation measures. It is anticipated that this review will consider the issue of mitigating the two child policy. My Department is currently developing proposals for the review and details will be announced once they have been agreed by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204110%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300964"}},{"id":"300963","reference":"AQW 4109/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-13","answerBy":"2020-05-29","answered":"2020-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) whether any planned treatment for cancer or other serious illness has been postponed or provided less frequently because of the COVID-19 pandemic; (ii) whether waiting times for cancer treatments have increased due to COVID-19; and (iii) to outline the COVID-19 risk to patients receiving cancer treatment.","answerText":"In answer to your question:\n\nWhilst there has been a necessary restructuring of services to permit an appropriate response to COVID-19 staff worked incredibly hard to ensure that urgent and emergency cancer treatment continued during the pandemic surge. Unfortunately, many procedures and diagnostic appointments have had to be postponed or delayed. When a decision is taken to delay diagnostics or treatment during the response to COVID-19, safety netting is in place to ensure that these patients resume on the appropriate pathway as soon as it is safe to do so.\n\nWaiting times for cancer treatments have been affected due to COVID-19. Part of the inevitable reduction in activity is due to the need to introduce measures to make treatment available safely.\n\nChemotherapy medications and some targeted therapies for cancer can cause temporary depletion of the immune system and increased the risk of poor outcomes for those infected with COVID-19. Age is also a significant risk factor both for cancer and COVID-19. Cancer specialists are actively discussing the added risks posed by the Covid-19 infection with patients to help them decide on the best course of action for them. The risk of cancer not being treated optimally has to be balanced with the risk of the patient becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Trusts have arrangements in place to manage the care of people with Covid-19 separately from other patients.","answerHtml":"In answer to your question:
Whilst there has been a necessary restructuring of services to permit an appropriate response to COVID-19 staff worked incredibly hard to ensure that urgent and emergency cancer treatment continued during the pandemic surge. Unfortunately, many procedures and diagnostic appointments have had to be postponed or delayed. When a decision is taken to delay diagnostics or treatment during the response to COVID-19, safety netting is in place to ensure that these patients resume on the appropriate pathway as soon as it is safe to do so.
Waiting times for cancer treatments have been affected due to COVID-19. Part of the inevitable reduction in activity is due to the need to introduce measures to make treatment available safely.
Chemotherapy medications and some targeted therapies for cancer can cause temporary depletion of the immune system and increased the risk of poor outcomes for those infected with COVID-19. Age is also a significant risk factor both for cancer and COVID-19. Cancer specialists are actively discussing the added risks posed by the Covid-19 infection with patients to help them decide on the best course of action for them. The risk of cancer not being treated optimally has to be balanced with the risk of the patient becoming seriously ill from COVID-19. Trusts have arrangements in place to manage the care of people with Covid-19 separately from other patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204109%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300963"}},{"id":"300920","reference":"AQW 4091/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-12","answerBy":"2020-05-28","answered":"2020-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) for an update on the Access to New Drugs policy announced by his Department in September 2018; (ii) whether patients in Northern Ireland are able to access Avastin via the NHS; (iii) to detail all the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence-approved cancer drugs unavailable via the NHS in Northern Ireland, but accessible via the NHS in other regions of the UK; and (iv) why some cancer drugs are unavailable via the NHS in Northern Ireland, but accessible via the NHS in other UK regions.","answerText":"On 12 September 2018 the Department announced that drugs approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for use through the Cancer Drug Fund in England will now be considered in line with existing arrangements for NI endorsement of NICE recommendations and be equally accessible here. The individual funding request process (IFR policy) which allows for access to unapproved drugs has also been has been modernised and is in the final stages of implementation, though this has been delayed due to Covid-19.\n\nNICE is considering bevacizumab (Avastin) for many different cancer indications. Each appraisal is independent and will look at the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the drug compared to those already available on the NHS in that area. Where NICE has recommended bevacizumab (Avastin) for use, it is available for suitable patients in Northern Ireland.\n\nAll those cancer medicines recommended by NICE are available for clinically suitable patients in Northern Ireland.\n\nEach UK jurisdiction has separate arrangements to determine access to cancer therapies that have not been fully endorsed by NICE. Decisions to prescribe medicines are the responsibility of clinicians, working in partnership with patients and their families, taking into account the evidence, the potential risks and benefits of treatment and individual circumstances. It is not possible for me to assess why medicines may or may not be prescribed in any other jurisdiction.","answerHtml":"On 12 September 2018 the Department announced that drugs approved by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) for use through the Cancer Drug Fund in England will now be considered in line with existing arrangements for NI endorsement of NICE recommendations and be equally accessible here. The individual funding request process (IFR policy) which allows for access to unapproved drugs has also been has been modernised and is in the final stages of implementation, though this has been delayed due to Covid-19.
NICE is considering bevacizumab (Avastin) for many different cancer indications. Each appraisal is independent and will look at the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the drug compared to those already available on the NHS in that area. Where NICE has recommended bevacizumab (Avastin) for use, it is available for suitable patients in Northern Ireland.
All those cancer medicines recommended by NICE are available for clinically suitable patients in Northern Ireland.
Each UK jurisdiction has separate arrangements to determine access to cancer therapies that have not been fully endorsed by NICE. Decisions to prescribe medicines are the responsibility of clinicians, working in partnership with patients and their families, taking into account the evidence, the potential risks and benefits of treatment and individual circumstances. It is not possible for me to assess why medicines may or may not be prescribed in any other jurisdiction.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204091%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300920"}},{"id":"300919","reference":"AQW 4090/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-05-12","answerBy":"2020-05-28","answered":"2020-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she has any plans to supplement Carer’s Allowance to support people with caring responsibilities during the COVID-19 crisis.","answerText":"I recognise at a very personal level the enormous amount of work that is done by those who have the responsibility of caring for others, and there is no doubt that their work is of great value to the wider community, as well as to those people for whom they are caring.\n\nThat’s why my Department has introduced two important temporary measures to help unpaid carers through the current COVID-19 emergency:\n\nUnpaid carers will be able to continue to claim Carer’s Allowance if they have a temporary break in caring, because either they or the person they care for becomes infected with coronavirus or has to self-isolate because of it.\n\nProviding “emotional support” to a severely disabled person will also now count towards the Carer’s Allowance threshold of 35 hours of care a week.\n\nThe rate of Carer’s Allowance was increased to £67.25 a week from April 2020 as part of the annual benefits up-rating exercise. There are no current plans for a further increase to the weekly rate or to pay a supplement to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance.\n\nThose carers who are on low incomes can access additional financial support through income-related benefits and their associated carer premiums/additions. Carers who are eligible to claim Universal Credit will also be able to benefit from the increase in the standard allowance (around £1000 a year) recently announced.\n\nIn addition, those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance here may, depending on their circumstances, be eligible to access the range of other emergency financial support that my Department is providing during the COVID-19 pandemic, including Discretionary Support\n\nIn response to the coronavirus outbreak, across my Department I have implemented a range of measures and actions to relieve hardship and to ensure people most in need at this time get the help and support they require. The Executive’s response to the coronavirus emergency is evolving and my Department continues to look at how best to support people during this unprecedented time.","answerHtml":"I recognise at a very personal level the enormous amount of work that is done by those who have the responsibility of caring for others, and there is no doubt that their work is of great value to the wider community, as well as to those people for whom they are caring.
That’s why my Department has introduced two important temporary measures to help unpaid carers through the current COVID-19 emergency:
Unpaid carers will be able to continue to claim Carer’s Allowance if they have a temporary break in caring, because either they or the person they care for becomes infected with coronavirus or has to self-isolate because of it.
Providing “emotional support” to a severely disabled person will also now count towards the Carer’s Allowance threshold of 35 hours of care a week.
The rate of Carer’s Allowance was increased to £67.25 a week from April 2020 as part of the annual benefits up-rating exercise. There are no current plans for a further increase to the weekly rate or to pay a supplement to those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance.
Those carers who are on low incomes can access additional financial support through income-related benefits and their associated carer premiums/additions. Carers who are eligible to claim Universal Credit will also be able to benefit from the increase in the standard allowance (around £1000 a year) recently announced.
In addition, those in receipt of Carer’s Allowance here may, depending on their circumstances, be eligible to access the range of other emergency financial support that my Department is providing during the COVID-19 pandemic, including Discretionary Support
In response to the coronavirus outbreak, across my Department I have implemented a range of measures and actions to relieve hardship and to ensure people most in need at this time get the help and support they require. The Executive’s response to the coronavirus emergency is evolving and my Department continues to look at how best to support people during this unprecedented time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%204090%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=300919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=300919"}},{"id":"299440","reference":"AQW 3846/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-19","answerBy":"2020-04-03","answered":"2021-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline her discussions with banks and other creditors regarding their actions to recover loans, including mortgages, as a response to COVID-19.","answerText":"I can confirm that I have met with banks, but not specifically about their actions to recover loans, including mortgages, as a response to the pandemic.\n\nHowever, Northern Ireland has replicated legislation made by England & Wales in the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 to give companies and mutual societies in Northern Ireland temporary protection against being wound up as a consequence of financial difficulties where these are due to the effects of the coronavirus.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that I have met with banks, but not specifically about their actions to recover loans, including mortgages, as a response to the pandemic.
However, Northern Ireland has replicated legislation made by England & Wales in the Corporate Insolvency and Governance Act 2020 to give companies and mutual societies in Northern Ireland temporary protection against being wound up as a consequence of financial difficulties where these are due to the effects of the coronavirus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203846%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299440"}},{"id":"299439","reference":"AQW 3845/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-19","answerBy":"2020-04-03","answered":"2020-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she is considering suspension of intention of enforcement and enforcement notices of property repossessions initiated by mortgages providers and issued by the Northern Ireland Courts and Tribunal Service as an Executive response to the impact of COVID-19.","answerText":"In response to the particularly challenging economic environment across Northern Ireland as a result of COVID-19, the Enforcement of Judgements Office (EJO) is committed to working collaboratively with all debtors throughout this crisis period in the management of Enforcement Orders registered against them.\n\nFollowing consultation with a number of their key stakeholders EJO are suspending the execution of existing Notice of Intentions to enforce a repossession judgement for a period of 3 months. This will remain subject to review. However they may proceed with the repossession of properties which are not occupied that are currently in the system.\n\nIn most cases, orders for the repossession of a property are issued by the Chancery Court in Northern Ireland who on 19 March issued directions regarding the progression of business, further to the direction of the Lord Chief Justice of 17 March 2020. Subsequently, all matters currently in the court system which are not of critical importance will be adjourned generally and no new business will be issued until further notice.","answerHtml":"In response to the particularly challenging economic environment across Northern Ireland as a result of COVID-19, the Enforcement of Judgements Office (EJO) is committed to working collaboratively with all debtors throughout this crisis period in the management of Enforcement Orders registered against them.
Following consultation with a number of their key stakeholders EJO are suspending the execution of existing Notice of Intentions to enforce a repossession judgement for a period of 3 months. This will remain subject to review. However they may proceed with the repossession of properties which are not occupied that are currently in the system.
In most cases, orders for the repossession of a property are issued by the Chancery Court in Northern Ireland who on 19 March issued directions regarding the progression of business, further to the direction of the Lord Chief Justice of 17 March 2020. Subsequently, all matters currently in the court system which are not of critical importance will be adjourned generally and no new business will be issued until further notice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203845%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299439"}},{"id":"299438","reference":"AQW 3844/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-19","answerBy":"2020-04-03","answered":"2020-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether she has remit to suspend insolvency actions as an Executive response to COVID-19.","answerText":"The management and listing of court cases is the responsibility of the NI Judiciary under the direction of the Lord Chief Justice (LCJ).\n\nIn light of the CORONAVIRUS (COVID – 19) pandemic, the Bankruptcy and Companies Master has issued a direction regarding the listing and conduct of insolvency business. More information can be found at https://judiciaryni.uk/.\n\nI welcome the Master’s direction which is appropriate and proportionate in the current circumstances.","answerHtml":"The management and listing of court cases is the responsibility of the NI Judiciary under the direction of the Lord Chief Justice (LCJ).
In light of the CORONAVIRUS (COVID – 19) pandemic, the Bankruptcy and Companies Master has issued a direction regarding the listing and conduct of insolvency business. More information can be found at https://judiciaryni.uk/.
I welcome the Master’s direction which is appropriate and proportionate in the current circumstances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203844%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299438"}},{"id":"299308","reference":"AQW 3801/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how changes to employment contracts as a response to the impact of COVID-19, will not prejudice employee rights under current contracts.","answerText":"I am acutely aware of the difficulties many employers and workers are facing during these difficult times and I am aware that many workers may be facing a period of temporary lay-off. Employers must agree any changes that may be needed to employment contracts with their employees as necessary. All employment contracts must at least meet the statutory minimum standards as set out in the framework of employment law.\n\nI am hopeful that the introduction of the UK-wide job retention scheme introduced by the Chancellor on 20 March 2020 will allow employers to retain their employees on payroll, rather than being temporarily laid off or made redundant.\n\nThis scheme allows employers to claim a grant of up to 80% of wages up to a cap of £2,500 per month. The UK Government intends for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to run for at least 3 months from 1 March 2020, but will extend the Scheme if necessary.\n\nThe UK Government advises that employers accessing the scheme will need to designate affected employees as ‘furloughed workers’ and notify their employees of this change. Changing the status of employees remains subject to existing employment law, and depending on the employment contract, may be subject to negotiation.\n\nI will, of course, continue to monitor developments, and UK-wide policy announcements, emanating from the Treasury and, along with my Executive colleagues, will seek to deliver all measures which assist all our people.","answerHtml":"I am acutely aware of the difficulties many employers and workers are facing during these difficult times and I am aware that many workers may be facing a period of temporary lay-off. Employers must agree any changes that may be needed to employment contracts with their employees as necessary. All employment contracts must at least meet the statutory minimum standards as set out in the framework of employment law.
I am hopeful that the introduction of the UK-wide job retention scheme introduced by the Chancellor on 20 March 2020 will allow employers to retain their employees on payroll, rather than being temporarily laid off or made redundant.
This scheme allows employers to claim a grant of up to 80% of wages up to a cap of £2,500 per month. The UK Government intends for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to run for at least 3 months from 1 March 2020, but will extend the Scheme if necessary.
The UK Government advises that employers accessing the scheme will need to designate affected employees as ‘furloughed workers’ and notify their employees of this change. Changing the status of employees remains subject to existing employment law, and depending on the employment contract, may be subject to negotiation.
I will, of course, continue to monitor developments, and UK-wide policy announcements, emanating from the Treasury and, along with my Executive colleagues, will seek to deliver all measures which assist all our people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203801%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299308","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299308"}},{"id":"299307","reference":"AQW 3800/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy what support and advice she will issue to employers and employees in the event of redundancies due to the impact of governments response to COVID-19.","answerText":"I reassure you that I am acutely aware of the situation faced by anyone potentially facing redundancy due to the impact of the Coronavirus. I would encourage all businesses that need to take advantage of the UK-wide job retention scheme introduced by the Chancellor on Friday, which should allow employers to retain their employees on payroll, rather than being laid off or made redundant.\n\nThis scheme allows employers to claim a grant of up to 80% of wages up to a cap of £2,500 per month. Staff whose salary is reduced as a result of these changes may also be eligible for support through the welfare system, including Universal Credit. The UK Government intends for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to run for at least 3 months from 1 March 2020, but will extend the scheme if necessary.\n\nI will, of course, continue to monitor developments, and UK-wide policy announcements emanating from the Treasury and, along with my Executive colleagues, will seek to deliver all measures which assist all our people.","answerHtml":"I reassure you that I am acutely aware of the situation faced by anyone potentially facing redundancy due to the impact of the Coronavirus. I would encourage all businesses that need to take advantage of the UK-wide job retention scheme introduced by the Chancellor on Friday, which should allow employers to retain their employees on payroll, rather than being laid off or made redundant.
This scheme allows employers to claim a grant of up to 80% of wages up to a cap of £2,500 per month. Staff whose salary is reduced as a result of these changes may also be eligible for support through the welfare system, including Universal Credit. The UK Government intends for the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme to run for at least 3 months from 1 March 2020, but will extend the scheme if necessary.
I will, of course, continue to monitor developments, and UK-wide policy announcements emanating from the Treasury and, along with my Executive colleagues, will seek to deliver all measures which assist all our people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203800%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299307"}},{"id":"299306","reference":"AQW 3799/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how she is working with the Minister for Communities to support workers to claim Income Support rather than being made redundant, which could allow businesses to remain dormant rather than cease trading and allow employees to keep their job.","answerText":"In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced the Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme (CJRS) which will cover 80% of workers’ wages, if they otherwise would have been redundant due to the crisis. The CJRS is a temporary scheme open to all UK employers starting from 1 March 2020 and it is designed to support employers whose operations have been severely affected by COVID-19. This would provide more support for workers rather than claiming benefits such as Universal Credit.\n\nThe Department of Finance (DoF) has been liaising regularly with the Treasury to test and clarify how the CJRS will operate, and most importantly, provide the support that is urgently needed.\n\nI am in contact with the Finance Minister and the Chancellor on any issues relating to the UK-wide schemes and I will continue to work with my Executive colleagues to consider what further support measures can be made available for the economy during the current health and economic crisis.","answerHtml":"In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced the Coronavirus Jobs Retention Scheme (CJRS) which will cover 80% of workers’ wages, if they otherwise would have been redundant due to the crisis. The CJRS is a temporary scheme open to all UK employers starting from 1 March 2020 and it is designed to support employers whose operations have been severely affected by COVID-19. This would provide more support for workers rather than claiming benefits such as Universal Credit.
The Department of Finance (DoF) has been liaising regularly with the Treasury to test and clarify how the CJRS will operate, and most importantly, provide the support that is urgently needed.
I am in contact with the Finance Minister and the Chancellor on any issues relating to the UK-wide schemes and I will continue to work with my Executive colleagues to consider what further support measures can be made available for the economy during the current health and economic crisis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203799%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299306"}},{"id":"299305","reference":"AQW 3798/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-07-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities, further to government response of COVID-19, how Jobs and Benefits Offices will process new claims for Jobseekers Allowance which currently require claimants to attend an interview at their local office.","answerText":"All appointments at local Jobs & Benefits offices have been postponed from 16 March 2020 as a response to COVID-19. This means that customers who would normally attend Jobs and Benefits Offices for their New Claim interview are no longer required to do so. In order to ensure that claimants are not disadvantaged by the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 my Department is providing a contingency arrangement during this unprecedented period.\n\nMy Department will continue to provide a Telephony Support service to those wishing to make a claim to New Style JSA. In order to maximize efficiency and to negate the requirement for the claimant to attend a Jobs and Benefit Office for a New Claim interview, my Department has introduced a telephony based model, from 19 March 2020, whereby the Benefit Processing Centre will contact the claimant after they have made a request to claim New Style JSA via the Telephony Support service.\n\nThe Benefit Processing Centre will establish the claimant’s identity, advise them of options and if required complete the claim to New Style Jobseekers Allowance with the customer whilst they are on the telephone. The Benefit Processing Office will accept the oral evidence provided by customer during the call as sufficient to process the claim and award any entitlement due.","answerHtml":"All appointments at local Jobs & Benefits offices have been postponed from 16 March 2020 as a response to COVID-19. This means that customers who would normally attend Jobs and Benefits Offices for their New Claim interview are no longer required to do so. In order to ensure that claimants are not disadvantaged by the circumstances surrounding COVID-19 my Department is providing a contingency arrangement during this unprecedented period.
My Department will continue to provide a Telephony Support service to those wishing to make a claim to New Style JSA. In order to maximize efficiency and to negate the requirement for the claimant to attend a Jobs and Benefit Office for a New Claim interview, my Department has introduced a telephony based model, from 19 March 2020, whereby the Benefit Processing Centre will contact the claimant after they have made a request to claim New Style JSA via the Telephony Support service.
The Benefit Processing Centre will establish the claimant’s identity, advise them of options and if required complete the claim to New Style Jobseekers Allowance with the customer whilst they are on the telephone. The Benefit Processing Office will accept the oral evidence provided by customer during the call as sufficient to process the claim and award any entitlement due.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203798%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299305"}},{"id":"299304","reference":"AQW 3797/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-18","answerBy":"2020-04-02","answered":"2020-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities whether she intends to supplement Income Support, Jobseeker’s Allowance and Employment Support Allowance payments as an Executive response to the impact of COVID-19.","answerText":"I am pleased to advise that my Department has moved quickly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to relieve hardship and ensure the people most in need get the help and support they require.\n\nA number of changes have been made to the social security system in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. Alongside the temporary increases to Universal Credit standard allowances and the basic element of Working Tax Credits, which came into operation on 6 April and will remain in place for the tax year 2020/21, other measures include:\n\nStatutory Sick Pay will now be paid temporarily from day one of an employee’s absence from work, where that absence is related to Coronavirus;\n\nStatutory Sick Pay has been extended to people classed as extremely vulnerable and at very high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 who are advised to remain at home, and cannot work, for at least 12 weeks (known as shielding);\n\npeople unable to work for more than seven days because of Coronavirus can obtain an isolation note through a new online service;\n\nthe Minimum Income Floor has been temporarily relaxed for all self-employed people in receipt of Universal Credit affected by Covid-19. This means a drop in earnings during the outbreak will see a person’s Universal Credit payment increase;\n\nthe Local Housing Allowance rates are being increased for those in the Private Rented Sector;\n\nthe additional earnings disregard in Housing Benefit has been increased from £17.10 a week to £37.10 a week;\n\npeople applying for or receiving benefits do not have to attend appointments at the Jobs and Benefit Office for 3 months, starting from 19 March 2020;\n\nall those in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance suffering from Coronavirus or required to self-isolate in line with guidance issued by the Executive will:\n\n∙be treated as having Limited Capability for Work without the requirement for a fit note or undergoing a Work Capability Assessment; and\n\n∙subject to the normal conditions of entitlement, waiting days will be removed meaning that Employment and Support Allowance will be payable from day one of their claim;\n\ndisabled sick people who cannot attend a reassessment for Personal Independence Payment, Employment and Support Allowance or Universal Credit will continue to receive their payments while their assessment is rearranged.\n\nIn addition the Department also introduced a number of changes to the eligibility criteria for Discretionary Support, including the introduction of a living expenses grant for those directly impacted by Covid-19.\n\nMinister Hargey has written to Members outlining the social security measures taken in response to COVID-19 to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require.\n\nThese are rapidly developing circumstances, I continue to keep the situation under review and will keep the Assembly updated accordingly. People’s safety and protecting them and their families is of primary importance.","answerHtml":"I am pleased to advise that my Department has moved quickly in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to relieve hardship and ensure the people most in need get the help and support they require.
A number of changes have been made to the social security system in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. Alongside the temporary increases to Universal Credit standard allowances and the basic element of Working Tax Credits, which came into operation on 6 April and will remain in place for the tax year 2020/21, other measures include:
Statutory Sick Pay will now be paid temporarily from day one of an employee’s absence from work, where that absence is related to Coronavirus;
Statutory Sick Pay has been extended to people classed as extremely vulnerable and at very high risk of severe illness from COVID-19 who are advised to remain at home, and cannot work, for at least 12 weeks (known as shielding);
people unable to work for more than seven days because of Coronavirus can obtain an isolation note through a new online service;
the Minimum Income Floor has been temporarily relaxed for all self-employed people in receipt of Universal Credit affected by Covid-19. This means a drop in earnings during the outbreak will see a person’s Universal Credit payment increase;
the Local Housing Allowance rates are being increased for those in the Private Rented Sector;
the additional earnings disregard in Housing Benefit has been increased from £17.10 a week to £37.10 a week;
people applying for or receiving benefits do not have to attend appointments at the Jobs and Benefit Office for 3 months, starting from 19 March 2020;
all those in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance suffering from Coronavirus or required to self-isolate in line with guidance issued by the Executive will:
∙be treated as having Limited Capability for Work without the requirement for a fit note or undergoing a Work Capability Assessment; and
∙subject to the normal conditions of entitlement, waiting days will be removed meaning that Employment and Support Allowance will be payable from day one of their claim;
disabled sick people who cannot attend a reassessment for Personal Independence Payment, Employment and Support Allowance or Universal Credit will continue to receive their payments while their assessment is rearranged.
In addition the Department also introduced a number of changes to the eligibility criteria for Discretionary Support, including the introduction of a living expenses grant for those directly impacted by Covid-19.
Minister Hargey has written to Members outlining the social security measures taken in response to COVID-19 to ensure people most in need get the help and support they require.
These are rapidly developing circumstances, I continue to keep the situation under review and will keep the Assembly updated accordingly. People’s safety and protecting them and their families is of primary importance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203797%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299304","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299304"}},{"id":"298653","reference":"AQW 3583/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-18","answered":"2020-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will consider suspending business rates for a minimum of two months as an Executive response to COVID-19.","answerText":"As part of the Executive’s response to COVID-19, I have announced an initial three months rates holiday.","answerHtml":"As part of the Executive’s response to COVID-19, I have announced an initial three months rates holiday.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203583%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298653"}},{"id":"298652","reference":"AQW 3582/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-30","answered":"2020-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) for her assessment of the preparedness of networks and providers to ensure internet provision in circumstances of increased demand due to the delay phase in response to COVID-19; (ii) how she is engaging with providers to ensure they are supporting consumers, in particular those who will be required to work from home during this phase.","answerText":"(i) Telecoms is a reserved matter led by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in Westminster. DCMS is responsible for responding to concerns about the security and resilience of UK networks, incident management and preparedness for the continuity of service for the telecoms sector.\n\nDCMS advises that the telecoms industry is well experienced in managing surges in internet usage, and expects to be able to do so in the event of an increase in home working.\n\n(ii) The Department for the Economy is a member of the UK’s Electronic Communications Resilience and Response Group (ECRRG). This group is comprised of representatives from all the major UK telecoms providers, DCMS, Ofcom, Cabinet Office, the wider UK Government, and the Devolved Administrations.\n\nAll networks are operating as expected. DCMS and ECRRG monitor the networks’ operations closely and continuously and will update DfE as and when necessary.","answerHtml":"(i) Telecoms is a reserved matter led by the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in Westminster. DCMS is responsible for responding to concerns about the security and resilience of UK networks, incident management and preparedness for the continuity of service for the telecoms sector.
DCMS advises that the telecoms industry is well experienced in managing surges in internet usage, and expects to be able to do so in the event of an increase in home working.
(ii) The Department for the Economy is a member of the UK’s Electronic Communications Resilience and Response Group (ECRRG). This group is comprised of representatives from all the major UK telecoms providers, DCMS, Ofcom, Cabinet Office, the wider UK Government, and the Devolved Administrations.
All networks are operating as expected. DCMS and ECRRG monitor the networks’ operations closely and continuously and will update DfE as and when necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203582%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298652"}},{"id":"298651","reference":"AQW 3581/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-30","answered":"2020-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how her Department is supporting businesses, in particular small and medium enterprises and those businesses most likely to be impacted, in the event of a delay phase in response to COVID-19.","answerText":"The Department has launched three schemes to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\nThe Small Business Support Grant scheme provided a £10,000 grant to businesses who are in receipt of Small Business Rates Relief or Industrial Derating, and who have a Total Net Annual Value of £15,000 or below.\n\nThe £25,000 Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Grant scheme provided a grant to businesses in those sectors who have a Total NAV of between £15,001 and £51,000.\n\nThe NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund opened on 20 May 2020 offering up to £10,000 of support to businesses with one to nine employees facing immediate cash flow difficulties due to Covid-19.\n\nFurther details on these scheme as well as UK-wide schemes such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme are available at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/campaign/coronavirus-updates-support-your-business.","answerHtml":"The Department has launched three schemes to support businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Small Business Support Grant scheme provided a £10,000 grant to businesses who are in receipt of Small Business Rates Relief or Industrial Derating, and who have a Total Net Annual Value of £15,000 or below.
The £25,000 Retail, Hospitality, Tourism and Leisure Grant scheme provided a grant to businesses in those sectors who have a Total NAV of between £15,001 and £51,000.
The NI Microbusiness Hardship Fund opened on 20 May 2020 offering up to £10,000 of support to businesses with one to nine employees facing immediate cash flow difficulties due to Covid-19.
Further details on these scheme as well as UK-wide schemes such as the Coronavirus Job Retention Scheme are available at https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/campaign/coronavirus-updates-support-your-business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203581%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298651"}},{"id":"298650","reference":"AQW 3580/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-30","answered":"2020-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy (i) to give her assessment of the impact and competitive disadvantage to businesses in Northern Ireland of the suspension of business rates in England for those companies with a rateable value of less than £51,000 and; (ii) to outline her plans to work with the Minister of Finance to address any impact.","answerText":"The Member will be aware that significant progress on business support has been made in the intervening period since she tabled her question.\n\nTo date, my own Department has distributed over £300 million in grants to businesses and the micro-businesses fund has also opened, with over 2,000 applications received. In total, over 40,000 businesses in Northern Ireland will have been eligible to apply for support under all of the Northern Ireland Covid-19 grant schemes. Many businesses have also received support from UK-wide schemes with rates relief being a significant support factor.\n\nAs noted above, in the intervening period the Executive has implemented its approach to supporting businesses with relief on rates. Initially the introduction of a 3 months rates holiday, subsequently extended to 4 months, provided an immediate support to businesses. That was subsequently followed by a targeted rate relief scheme that will provide businesses in retail, hospitality, leisure, tourism, childcare and airports with 100% rate relief for the full financial year. It should also be noted that the scheme to be applied over 12 months has a wider scope in NI than it does in other parts of the UK.","answerHtml":"The Member will be aware that significant progress on business support has been made in the intervening period since she tabled her question.
To date, my own Department has distributed over £300 million in grants to businesses and the micro-businesses fund has also opened, with over 2,000 applications received. In total, over 40,000 businesses in Northern Ireland will have been eligible to apply for support under all of the Northern Ireland Covid-19 grant schemes. Many businesses have also received support from UK-wide schemes with rates relief being a significant support factor.
As noted above, in the intervening period the Executive has implemented its approach to supporting businesses with relief on rates. Initially the introduction of a 3 months rates holiday, subsequently extended to 4 months, provided an immediate support to businesses. That was subsequently followed by a targeted rate relief scheme that will provide businesses in retail, hospitality, leisure, tourism, childcare and airports with 100% rate relief for the full financial year. It should also be noted that the scheme to be applied over 12 months has a wider scope in NI than it does in other parts of the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203580%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298650"}},{"id":"298649","reference":"AQW 3579/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-12","answerBy":"2020-03-30","answered":"2020-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he will consider extending the small business rate relief scheme to businesses with properties of higher Net Annual Value than the current scheme accepts.","answerText":"I am considering the small Business Rate Relief Scheme as part of the Budget.","answerHtml":"I am considering the small Business Rate Relief Scheme as part of the Budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203579%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298649"}},{"id":"298432","reference":"AQW 3516/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-11","answerBy":"2020-03-16","answered":"2020-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the cancer drug Panitumumab is available for prescription in Health and Social Care Trusts; and to outline the rationale for this decision.","answerText":"Panitumumab is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as an option for previously untreated RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer in adults (TA439). Therefore it is available for suitable patients in Northern Ireland.\n\nMedicines are commissioned for use in Northern Ireland where there is substantive evidence of clinical and cost effectiveness, as determined by NICE.\n\nThere are two other licensed indications for the use of panitumumab, neither are recommended by NICE and therefore not routinely commissioned for patients in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn circumstances where NICE has not recommended a particular drug, it can be requested by an individual patient’s clinician via the Individual Funding Request process which provides a mechanism to consider requests from clinical consultants for treatments for individual patients that fall outside the range of services routinely commissioned.","answerHtml":"Panitumumab is recommended by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) as an option for previously untreated RAS wild-type metastatic colorectal cancer in adults (TA439). Therefore it is available for suitable patients in Northern Ireland.
Medicines are commissioned for use in Northern Ireland where there is substantive evidence of clinical and cost effectiveness, as determined by NICE.
There are two other licensed indications for the use of panitumumab, neither are recommended by NICE and therefore not routinely commissioned for patients in Northern Ireland.
In circumstances where NICE has not recommended a particular drug, it can be requested by an individual patient’s clinician via the Individual Funding Request process which provides a mechanism to consider requests from clinical consultants for treatments for individual patients that fall outside the range of services routinely commissioned.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203516%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298432","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298432"}},{"id":"298431","reference":"AQW 3515/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-11","answerBy":"2020-03-27","answered":"2020-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail (i) the number of clinical medical staff employed or contracted at Queen’s University, Belfast, and each campus of Ulster University, broken down by role; and (ii) her assessment of the clinical medical resource at each university to deal with COVID-19.","answerText":"My Department does not hold information on staffing at the universities; you may wish to contact the universities directly.\n\nIn regards to an assessment of the clinical medical resource at each university, the Department of Health is best placed to provide this.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold information on staffing at the universities; you may wish to contact the universities directly.
In regards to an assessment of the clinical medical resource at each university, the Department of Health is best placed to provide this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203515%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298431"}},{"id":"298430","reference":"AQW 3514/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-11","answerBy":"2020-03-27","answered":"2020-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) why Translink processes two single-journey tickets instead of a return journey ticket for passengers holding a Smart Pass; and (ii) whether there is additional cost to her Department by processing two single-journey fares for Smart Pass holders instead of a return ticket.","answerText":"Since the inception of free travel under the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme in 2002 it has been the case that SmartPass holders must obtain a single ticket for each leg of their journey by bus or train. This requirement is based on audit advice received by the Department and aims to minimise the risk of fraud or waste due to the return portion of a subsidised journey either being used by an ineligible passenger, or not used at all.\n\nReturn journey tickets offered by Translink are a discounted product to passengers as a commercial incentive. This is intended to encourage, and increase patronage. These discounted fares are not offered in conjunction with any other discounts – which includes the discounts offered to SmartPass holders.\n\nWhilst reimbursing Translink on return tickets would reduce costs on the Concessionary Fares Budget, this must be balanced against the risk of fraud of offering this ticket type through the Scheme. To that end, my Department ensures that reimbursement to Translink for single journey concessionary travel is based on a “no better and no worse off” principle. That is Translink is no better or worse off for providing the journey undertaken through the Scheme.","answerHtml":"Since the inception of free travel under the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme in 2002 it has been the case that SmartPass holders must obtain a single ticket for each leg of their journey by bus or train. This requirement is based on audit advice received by the Department and aims to minimise the risk of fraud or waste due to the return portion of a subsidised journey either being used by an ineligible passenger, or not used at all.
Return journey tickets offered by Translink are a discounted product to passengers as a commercial incentive. This is intended to encourage, and increase patronage. These discounted fares are not offered in conjunction with any other discounts – which includes the discounts offered to SmartPass holders.
Whilst reimbursing Translink on return tickets would reduce costs on the Concessionary Fares Budget, this must be balanced against the risk of fraud of offering this ticket type through the Scheme. To that end, my Department ensures that reimbursement to Translink for single journey concessionary travel is based on a “no better and no worse off” principle. That is Translink is no better or worse off for providing the journey undertaken through the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203514%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298430","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298430"}},{"id":"298429","reference":"AQW 3513/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-11","answerBy":"2020-03-27","answered":"2020-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when funding will be made available to advance the extension of the Waterside Greenway in Londonderry to the village of Strathfoyle.","answerText":"As outlined in response to previous Assembly Questions about Derry City and Strabane District Council’s proposed Strathfoyle Greenway project (AQW 1170/17-22, AQW 3028/17-22 and AQW 3206/17-22), I am keen to work with other Ministers and with all stakeholders to deliver on projects that have the potential to improve the lives of people and connect communities. However, before I take decisions in relation to funding, I will need to consider carefully the budget position after the 2020/21 Budget is allocated to my Department.","answerHtml":"As outlined in response to previous Assembly Questions about Derry City and Strabane District Council’s proposed Strathfoyle Greenway project (AQW 1170/17-22, AQW 3028/17-22 and AQW 3206/17-22), I am keen to work with other Ministers and with all stakeholders to deliver on projects that have the potential to improve the lives of people and connect communities. However, before I take decisions in relation to funding, I will need to consider carefully the budget position after the 2020/21 Budget is allocated to my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203513%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298429"}},{"id":"298428","reference":"AQW 3512/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-11","answerBy":"2020-03-27","answered":"2020-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the impact of removing the free TV License for anyone over 75 years and not in receipt of pension credit.","answerText":"The financial impact of removing the free TV licence for anyone over 75 and not in receipt of pension credit is an annual cost of £154.50.\n\nThe BBC have announced that they have extended the free TV licence for over 75’s until August 1st however as the COVID-19 crisis is fluid, they will continue to keep this under review.","answerHtml":"The financial impact of removing the free TV licence for anyone over 75 and not in receipt of pension credit is an annual cost of £154.50.
The BBC have announced that they have extended the free TV licence for over 75’s until August 1st however as the COVID-19 crisis is fluid, they will continue to keep this under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203512%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=298428","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=298428"}},{"id":"299180","reference":"AQO 358/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-05","answerBy":"2020-03-16","answered":"2020-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to reintroduce prescription charges.","answerText":"Charges for prescriptions were abolished in Northern Ireland in April 2010 with the aim of removing the financial barrier to people requiring medicines, to improve health outcomes and to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.\n\nI have no current plans to re-introduce prescription charges. Any proposals for the re-introduction of prescription charges would require public consultation and approval by the Executive as it is a cross-cutting issue.\n\nIn the meantime, it is important that patients only order repeat prescriptions for medicines that they need to minimise any potential waste.","answerHtml":"Charges for prescriptions were abolished in Northern Ireland in April 2010 with the aim of removing the financial barrier to people requiring medicines, to improve health outcomes and to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.
I have no current plans to re-introduce prescription charges. Any proposals for the re-introduction of prescription charges would require public consultation and approval by the Executive as it is a cross-cutting issue.
In the meantime, it is important that patients only order repeat prescriptions for medicines that they need to minimise any potential waste.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20358%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299180","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299180"}},{"id":"299232","reference":"AQO 358/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-05","answerBy":"2020-03-16","answered":"2020-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he plans to reintroduce prescription charges.","answerText":"Charges for prescriptions were abolished in Northern Ireland in April 2010 with the aim of removing the financial barrier to people requiring medicines, to improve health outcomes and to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.\n\nI have no current plans to re-introduce prescription charges. Any proposals for the re-introduction of prescription charges would require public consultation and approval by the Executive as it is a cross-cutting issue.\n\nIn the meantime, it is important that patients only order repeat prescriptions for medicines that they need to minimise any potential waste.","answerHtml":"Charges for prescriptions were abolished in Northern Ireland in April 2010 with the aim of removing the financial barrier to people requiring medicines, to improve health outcomes and to avoid unnecessary hospital admissions.
I have no current plans to re-introduce prescription charges. Any proposals for the re-introduction of prescription charges would require public consultation and approval by the Executive as it is a cross-cutting issue.
In the meantime, it is important that patients only order repeat prescriptions for medicines that they need to minimise any potential waste.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20358%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=299232","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=299232"}},{"id":"297491","reference":"AQW 3156/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-04","answerBy":"2020-03-20","answered":"2020-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for his assessment of the McCloud Judgement; (ii) how the McCloud Judgement impacts members of public service pension schemes in Northern Ireland; and (iii) to detail the estimated costs to his Department to address discrimination found in the McCloud Judgement.","answerText":"There is a clear need to address age discrimination in devolved public service pension schemes as a consequence of the McCloud ruling. This is supported by legal advice.\n\nThis is a complex issue, as some members of the devolved public service pension schemes will have been better off in the old schemes, and some better off in the new schemes. The solution must ensure members can keep their accrued rights, whilst also removing discrimination for the future.\n\nThe quantum of any costs associated with addressing age discrimination in the devolved public service pension schemes is not yet available. Any increased expenditure on public service pensions, as a result of decisions to be taken in relation to the McCloud ruling, would be expected to be paid out over future decades as current public sector workers retire and their pensions start to be paid.\n\nPensions in payment are paid through AME (Annually Managed Expenditure) while the level of contributions required from employers is set in actuarial valuations of the schemes. The next valuations will set employer contribution rates from 2023. A number of factors could affect the valuations between now and then and it is too early to say whether employer contribution rates will increase from 2023.","answerHtml":"There is a clear need to address age discrimination in devolved public service pension schemes as a consequence of the McCloud ruling. This is supported by legal advice.
This is a complex issue, as some members of the devolved public service pension schemes will have been better off in the old schemes, and some better off in the new schemes. The solution must ensure members can keep their accrued rights, whilst also removing discrimination for the future.
The quantum of any costs associated with addressing age discrimination in the devolved public service pension schemes is not yet available. Any increased expenditure on public service pensions, as a result of decisions to be taken in relation to the McCloud ruling, would be expected to be paid out over future decades as current public sector workers retire and their pensions start to be paid.
Pensions in payment are paid through AME (Annually Managed Expenditure) while the level of contributions required from employers is set in actuarial valuations of the schemes. The next valuations will set employer contribution rates from 2023. A number of factors could affect the valuations between now and then and it is too early to say whether employer contribution rates will increase from 2023.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203156%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297491"}},{"id":"297490","reference":"AQW 3155/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-04","answerBy":"2020-03-20","answered":"2020-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he intends to legislate to remove discrimination from public service schemes made under the Public Service Pensions Act (Northern Ireland) 2014 from April 2015, further to the McCloud Judgement.","answerText":"To fully remove discrimination from the devolved public service pension schemes whilst also ensuring that scheme members can keep benefits that they have earned to date, is expected to require changes to the Public Service Pensions Act (Northern Ireland) 2014.","answerHtml":"To fully remove discrimination from the devolved public service pension schemes whilst also ensuring that scheme members can keep benefits that they have earned to date, is expected to require changes to the Public Service Pensions Act (Northern Ireland) 2014.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203155%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297490"}},{"id":"297489","reference":"AQW 3154/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-04","answerBy":"2020-03-20","answered":"2020-04-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when they intend to publish a successive child poverty strategy, as committed to in New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"Answer\n\nIn line with New Decade, New Approach, I will be publishing a timescale for the delivery a range of social strategies, including anti-poverty in the coming weeks. The principles and practice of citizen and community engagement, co-design and co-production will be a key part of the development and delivery of these strategies.\n\nIt is my intention that the co-design group for the anti-poverty strategy will consider and make recommendations to me on the requirement for a stand-alone child poverty strategy or alternatively for the development of a single anti-poverty strategy that considers and make recommendations for all sections of the community, including children.","answerHtml":"Answer
In line with New Decade, New Approach, I will be publishing a timescale for the delivery a range of social strategies, including anti-poverty in the coming weeks. The principles and practice of citizen and community engagement, co-design and co-production will be a key part of the development and delivery of these strategies.
It is my intention that the co-design group for the anti-poverty strategy will consider and make recommendations to me on the requirement for a stand-alone child poverty strategy or alternatively for the development of a single anti-poverty strategy that considers and make recommendations for all sections of the community, including children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203154%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297489"}},{"id":"297488","reference":"AQW 3153/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-04","answerBy":"2020-03-20","answered":"2020-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice (i) to give her assessment of the McCloud Judgement; (ii) how the McCloud Judgement impacts members of Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI), (iii) to detail estimated costs to her Department to address discrimination found in the McCloud Judgement for members of the PSNI.","answerText":"The impact of the McCloud judgment on all public service pension schemes is under active consideration. The employment tribunal cases relating to the Police Service of Northern Ireland have been stayed pending the final remedy of the McCloud judgment and, therefore, it is not appropriate for me to comment.","answerHtml":"The impact of the McCloud judgment on all public service pension schemes is under active consideration. The employment tribunal cases relating to the Police Service of Northern Ireland have been stayed pending the final remedy of the McCloud judgment and, therefore, it is not appropriate for me to comment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203153%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297488"}},{"id":"297487","reference":"AQW 3152/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-03-04","answerBy":"2020-03-20","answered":"2020-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he is working with the Open University to ensure that school leavers are informed about Open University as an option for higher education.","answerText":"Careers Education is part of the statutory Curriculum in Northern Ireland. It is included in the Employability element of the Learning for Life and Work area of learning. It is the responsibility of schools to provide all learners with high quality careers education and guidance to help inform their decisions and ensure that they are fully aware of their potential options and pathways into further education, higher education, training and employment. This guidance should, where appropriate, include the various university options available.","answerHtml":"Careers Education is part of the statutory Curriculum in Northern Ireland. It is included in the Employability element of the Learning for Life and Work area of learning. It is the responsibility of schools to provide all learners with high quality careers education and guidance to help inform their decisions and ensure that they are fully aware of their potential options and pathways into further education, higher education, training and employment. This guidance should, where appropriate, include the various university options available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%203152%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=297487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=297487"}},{"id":"296354","reference":"AQW 2740/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) whether e-carNI charge points are classed as parking spaces; (ii) whether they are subject to parking charges introduced by local councils; and (iii) in relation to the limited network and mileage restrictions, for her assessment of the impact of parking charges at e-carNI charge points on e-car vehicle users.","answerText":"Parking spaces or bays are situated within the parking place and are defined in legislation as “a space which is marked out in a parking place for the leaving of a vehicle” (Road Traffic and Vehicles Off-Street Parking Order (Northern Ireland) 2000 & The Parking Places on Roads (Electric Vehicles) Order (Northern Ireland) 2012). As such, e-carNI charge points are not classed as parking spaces.\n\nElectric vehicle (EV) drivers are subject to the same parking charges in council car parks as drivers of internal combustion engine vehicles. They can avail of EV charge points located within the car park, at no extra cost, having paid for their allocated time to use the council car park.\n\nAt present, the Department does not charge EV drivers for parking their vehicle on-street in a parking place for electric vehicles. The impact of parking charges for EV drivers using council car park facilities are no different to other users of these car parks given that, at present, ESB does not charge e-car drivers for using their network of charge points in the North. There is no evidence to suggest that parking charges at e-carNI charge points has any impact on e-car vehicle users.\n\nThere are currently just under 3,000 EVs registered in the North and 337 public charge points. The number of EVs coming to the market is increasing year on year with significant increases in vehicle range. I fully recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure which provides confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles.","answerHtml":"Parking spaces or bays are situated within the parking place and are defined in legislation as “a space which is marked out in a parking place for the leaving of a vehicle” (Road Traffic and Vehicles Off-Street Parking Order (Northern Ireland) 2000 & The Parking Places on Roads (Electric Vehicles) Order (Northern Ireland) 2012). As such, e-carNI charge points are not classed as parking spaces.
Electric vehicle (EV) drivers are subject to the same parking charges in council car parks as drivers of internal combustion engine vehicles. They can avail of EV charge points located within the car park, at no extra cost, having paid for their allocated time to use the council car park.
At present, the Department does not charge EV drivers for parking their vehicle on-street in a parking place for electric vehicles. The impact of parking charges for EV drivers using council car park facilities are no different to other users of these car parks given that, at present, ESB does not charge e-car drivers for using their network of charge points in the North. There is no evidence to suggest that parking charges at e-carNI charge points has any impact on e-car vehicle users.
There are currently just under 3,000 EVs registered in the North and 337 public charge points. The number of EVs coming to the market is increasing year on year with significant increases in vehicle range. I fully recognise the importance of having a modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure which provides confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202740%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296354","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296354"}},{"id":"296353","reference":"AQW 2739/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure when she plans to introduce purchase charges at e-carNI charge points.","answerText":"The e-car public charge point network in the North is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). At present, ESB does not charge e-car drivers for charging an electric vehicle at a public charge point. To date, the Utility Regulator has set a Maximum Resale Price (MRP) on the electricity cost of charge points, whereby any commercial operator cannot charge above cost price of electricity supply. Over the next few months, the Utility Regulator will be publishing its findings from the recent consultation on whether to remove the Maximum Resale Price (MRP) of Electricity as it applies to electric vehicles.\n\nI look forward to the outcome of the consultation exercise which will give clarity for operators wishing to provide commercial services in the North. I fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring. In recognition of this, I recently made a joint commitment with the DAERA Minister to work collaboratively to promote the use of electric vehicles and improve the charge point network across the North.","answerHtml":"The e-car public charge point network in the North is owned by the Electricity Supply Board (ESB). At present, ESB does not charge e-car drivers for charging an electric vehicle at a public charge point. To date, the Utility Regulator has set a Maximum Resale Price (MRP) on the electricity cost of charge points, whereby any commercial operator cannot charge above cost price of electricity supply. Over the next few months, the Utility Regulator will be publishing its findings from the recent consultation on whether to remove the Maximum Resale Price (MRP) of Electricity as it applies to electric vehicles.
I look forward to the outcome of the consultation exercise which will give clarity for operators wishing to provide commercial services in the North. I fully recognise the importance of having modern, reliable public electric vehicle charging infrastructure in providing confidence for users of ultra-low emission vehicles and in respect of the connectivity improvements this would bring. In recognition of this, I recently made a joint commitment with the DAERA Minister to work collaboratively to promote the use of electric vehicles and improve the charge point network across the North.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202739%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296353"}},{"id":"296352","reference":"AQW 2738/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure whether she plans to introduce penalties to e-carNI vehicle users who park their car at e-car charging points longer than the required time to fully charge.","answerText":"The following legislation provides for the on street and off street use of a parking place for electric vehicles respectively:\n\nThe Parking Places on Roads (Electric Vehicles) Order (Northern Ireland) 2012; and\n\n2000 No. 384 ROAD TRAFFIC AND VEHICLES Off-Street Parking Order (Northern Ireland) 2000.\n\nThese Orders set out the authorisation, use of parking places and parking bays and the maximum period of waiting for electric vehicles. When the driver of an electric vehicle uses a parking bay reserved for an electric vehicle, the electric vehicle must be connected to an electric vehicle charging post and the driver must adhere to the specified time restrictions in relation to that parking place. It is a parking offence if time limits are contravened, enforceable by means of issuing a Penalty Charge Notice. The amount of the Penalty Charge is currently £90 which can be reduced to £45 if paid within 14 days.\n\nI have no plans, at present, to introduce penalties for electric vehicle users who leave their electric vehicles at e-car charging points longer than the required time to fully charge their vehicle.","answerHtml":"The following legislation provides for the on street and off street use of a parking place for electric vehicles respectively:
The Parking Places on Roads (Electric Vehicles) Order (Northern Ireland) 2012; and
2000 No. 384 ROAD TRAFFIC AND VEHICLES Off-Street Parking Order (Northern Ireland) 2000.
These Orders set out the authorisation, use of parking places and parking bays and the maximum period of waiting for electric vehicles. When the driver of an electric vehicle uses a parking bay reserved for an electric vehicle, the electric vehicle must be connected to an electric vehicle charging post and the driver must adhere to the specified time restrictions in relation to that parking place. It is a parking offence if time limits are contravened, enforceable by means of issuing a Penalty Charge Notice. The amount of the Penalty Charge is currently £90 which can be reduced to £45 if paid within 14 days.
I have no plans, at present, to introduce penalties for electric vehicle users who leave their electric vehicles at e-car charging points longer than the required time to fully charge their vehicle.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202738%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296352"}},{"id":"296351","reference":"AQW 2737/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to introduce NHS Continuing Healthcare, as provided in England and Wales; and to outline the rationale for this decision.","answerText":"A public consultation on continuing healthcare was launched on 19 June 2017 and ran for a period of 13 weeks. A total of 43 consultation responses were received and analysed. I am considering the consultation responses and will announce next steps in due course.","answerHtml":"A public consultation on continuing healthcare was launched on 19 June 2017 and ran for a period of 13 weeks. A total of 43 consultation responses were received and analysed. I am considering the consultation responses and will announce next steps in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202737%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296351"}},{"id":"296350","reference":"AQW 2736/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-26","answerBy":"2020-03-12","answered":"2020-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether the (i) Northern Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trust have established panels to consider cases under The Mental Capacity (Deprivation of Liberty) Regulations (Northern Ireland 2019); and, if this is not the case, to outline the rationale for these decisions.","answerText":"Both the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Western Health and Social Care Trust have established trust panels to consider applications for deprivations of liberty in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 and the Mental Capacity (Deprivation of Liberty) (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019.","answerHtml":"Both the Northern Health and Social Care Trust and the Western Health and Social Care Trust have established trust panels to consider applications for deprivations of liberty in accordance with the Mental Capacity Act (Northern Ireland) 2016 and the Mental Capacity (Deprivation of Liberty) (No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2019.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202736%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=296350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=296350"}},{"id":"294883","reference":"AQW 2124/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-14","answerBy":"2020-03-02","answered":"2020-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs how his Department is adopting a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation.","answerText":"My Department is working hard to develop and deliver policies and legislation within the context of the draft Programme for Government (2016-2021), using Outcomes Based Approaches to ensure policy making is informed by a sound evidence base and extensive stakeholder engagement, supplemented by rigorous impact assessment. While not explicit, current processes do encompass elements of a trauma informed approach, such as cognisance of impact on marginalised members of the community, collaborative working and intersectionality.\n\nWhilst I have no plans to formally introduce a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation within my Department, I have asked officials to engage with colleagues from other Departments via the NICS Policy Community to obtain information on where this approach is being used within NICS, and the extent to which it would be of relevance to my Department.","answerHtml":"My Department is working hard to develop and deliver policies and legislation within the context of the draft Programme for Government (2016-2021), using Outcomes Based Approaches to ensure policy making is informed by a sound evidence base and extensive stakeholder engagement, supplemented by rigorous impact assessment. While not explicit, current processes do encompass elements of a trauma informed approach, such as cognisance of impact on marginalised members of the community, collaborative working and intersectionality.
Whilst I have no plans to formally introduce a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation within my Department, I have asked officials to engage with colleagues from other Departments via the NICS Policy Community to obtain information on where this approach is being used within NICS, and the extent to which it would be of relevance to my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202124%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294883","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294883"}},{"id":"294882","reference":"AQW 2123/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-14","answerBy":"2020-03-02","answered":"2020-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health how his Department is adopting a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation.","answerText":"My Department is leading on a number of trauma-informed initiatives and working to raise awareness of the impact of trauma among policy makers.\n\nUnder the cross-departmental Early Intervention Transformation Programme, led by my department, £1.4million has been invested in a Trauma Informed Practice Project, which is being taken forward by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland. The Project aims to deliver systems change by embedding a better understanding of adverse childhood experiences and trauma informed thinking across the health, education, social care, justice and voluntary sectors. Within this Project, a range of workforce development modules have been established including the Be the Change Leadership Programme in which my officials participate.\n\nIn addition, Signs of Safety, which is a strengths-based approach to children’s social work services, is being rolled out across Northern Ireland over a five year period. It aims to improve the safety of children by working with families to identify strengths, manage problems and agree solutions to keep children safe, whilst improving outcomes for both children and families.\n\nMy department is also developing a regional framework for integrated therapeutic care, which will be applied to all settings in which looked after children are cared for. This new therapeutic framework is underpinned by research and current best practice in trauma-responsive service design. A key component of the new framework will focus on building caring and purposeful relationships with children and young people, based on a shared understanding of the impacts of trauma on child development. The aim is that the application of a regionally consistent, trauma-responsive therapeutic approach will lead to improved outcomes for looked after children on a number of levels.","answerHtml":"My Department is leading on a number of trauma-informed initiatives and working to raise awareness of the impact of trauma among policy makers.
Under the cross-departmental Early Intervention Transformation Programme, led by my department, £1.4million has been invested in a Trauma Informed Practice Project, which is being taken forward by the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland. The Project aims to deliver systems change by embedding a better understanding of adverse childhood experiences and trauma informed thinking across the health, education, social care, justice and voluntary sectors. Within this Project, a range of workforce development modules have been established including the Be the Change Leadership Programme in which my officials participate.
In addition, Signs of Safety, which is a strengths-based approach to children’s social work services, is being rolled out across Northern Ireland over a five year period. It aims to improve the safety of children by working with families to identify strengths, manage problems and agree solutions to keep children safe, whilst improving outcomes for both children and families.
My department is also developing a regional framework for integrated therapeutic care, which will be applied to all settings in which looked after children are cared for. This new therapeutic framework is underpinned by research and current best practice in trauma-responsive service design. A key component of the new framework will focus on building caring and purposeful relationships with children and young people, based on a shared understanding of the impacts of trauma on child development. The aim is that the application of a regionally consistent, trauma-responsive therapeutic approach will lead to improved outcomes for looked after children on a number of levels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202123%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294882","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294882"}},{"id":"294881","reference":"AQW 2122/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-14","answerBy":"2020-03-02","answered":"2020-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how his Department is adopting a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation.","answerText":"As outlined in the New Decade New Approach document DoF will apply the principles and practice of citizen and community engagement and co-design in the development and delivery its policy and legislation. In this way those who have experienced trauma and those with expertise in responding to trauma will be able to inform the development of relevant policies.\n\nThe Innovation Lab within DoF can provide expertise in customer engagement and user centred design to support departments in policy development.","answerHtml":"As outlined in the New Decade New Approach document DoF will apply the principles and practice of citizen and community engagement and co-design in the development and delivery its policy and legislation. In this way those who have experienced trauma and those with expertise in responding to trauma will be able to inform the development of relevant policies.
The Innovation Lab within DoF can provide expertise in customer engagement and user centred design to support departments in policy development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202122%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294881","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294881"}},{"id":"294880","reference":"AQW 2121/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-14","answerBy":"2020-03-02","answered":"2020-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy how her Department is adopting a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation.","answerText":"My Department follows Central Government guidance on policy development. This is built around a ‘policy cycle’ framework focused on ‘Rationale, Objectives, Appraisal, Monitoring, Evaluation and Feedback’.\n\nAt present there are no plans to adopt a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation in respect of economic development.","answerHtml":"My Department follows Central Government guidance on policy development. This is built around a ‘policy cycle’ framework focused on ‘Rationale, Objectives, Appraisal, Monitoring, Evaluation and Feedback’.
At present there are no plans to adopt a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation in respect of economic development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202121%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294880"}},{"id":"294879","reference":"AQW 2120/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-14","answerBy":"2020-03-02","answered":"2020-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities how her Department is adopting a trauma-informed approach when developing policy and legislation.","answerText":"Many of the public services provided by my Department require colleagues to recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma in people accessing support.\n\nI am committed to protecting the most vulnerable in society, embedding a right-based approach and meeting objective need.\n\nAs outlined in New Decade, New Approach, the Department is committed to citizen and community engagement and a co-design, co-production approach to policy development.","answerHtml":"Many of the public services provided by my Department require colleagues to recognise the signs and symptoms of trauma in people accessing support.
I am committed to protecting the most vulnerable in society, embedding a right-based approach and meeting objective need.
As outlined in New Decade, New Approach, the Department is committed to citizen and community engagement and a co-design, co-production approach to policy development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202120%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294879"}},{"id":"294673","reference":"AQW 2037/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-18","answered":"2020-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) what information is being provided to those who have paid for and booked a date for their MOT and are not in the priority group; and (ii) will she provide a contact number for those not in the priority group.","answerText":"The information provided to customers who have booked a date for their MOT and are not in one of the priority groups has been tailored to the different groups of customers. Owners of vehicles including motorcycles, buses, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and re-tests are advised to turn up for scheduled appointments, as these tests remain unaffected. Owners of cars five years old or older and light goods vehicles with recently expired or about to expire MOTs are being advised not to attend for test, unless contacted by the DVA to do so. Owners of these vehicles are also advised that they will be automatically issued with a Temporary Exemption Certificate, exempting them from the legal requirement to hold an MOT certificate up to the new date on the exemption certificate. All customers are being urged to continue to book their vehicles for MOT, as only then can the DVA prioritise their appointments, or issue them with a Temporary Exemption Certificate.\n\nA dedicated helpline for customers in the priority group has been set up. The helpline number is 0300 200 7862. For customers not in the priority group as well as updates on press statements and social media, the DVA has created a dedicated section on the NI Direct website, where regular updates are made, to provide customers with one single point of information if they have any queries on this matter this can be accessed via www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ongoing-issues-mot-test-centres.","answerHtml":"The information provided to customers who have booked a date for their MOT and are not in one of the priority groups has been tailored to the different groups of customers. Owners of vehicles including motorcycles, buses, heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and re-tests are advised to turn up for scheduled appointments, as these tests remain unaffected. Owners of cars five years old or older and light goods vehicles with recently expired or about to expire MOTs are being advised not to attend for test, unless contacted by the DVA to do so. Owners of these vehicles are also advised that they will be automatically issued with a Temporary Exemption Certificate, exempting them from the legal requirement to hold an MOT certificate up to the new date on the exemption certificate. All customers are being urged to continue to book their vehicles for MOT, as only then can the DVA prioritise their appointments, or issue them with a Temporary Exemption Certificate.
A dedicated helpline for customers in the priority group has been set up. The helpline number is 0300 200 7862. For customers not in the priority group as well as updates on press statements and social media, the DVA has created a dedicated section on the NI Direct website, where regular updates are made, to provide customers with one single point of information if they have any queries on this matter this can be accessed via www.nidirect.gov.uk/articles/ongoing-issues-mot-test-centres.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202037%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294673","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294673"}},{"id":"294672","reference":"AQW 2036/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance what percentage of businesses provided data requested by Land and Property Services to determine the Net Annual Value of their business property for Reval 2020.","answerText":"In April 2019 Land & Property Services (LPS) wrote to 44,487 occupiers of business properties seeking information on rent, lease and trading information. LPS followed up with reminders to those that did not respond. LPS did not write to property which is generally not available to rent, such as churches, schools, hospitals or universities. Vacant property was also excluded.\n\nLPS received 20,600 responses, a return rate of 46%. Since publishing the draft schedule of values on 7 January LPS has received a further 23 responses.\n\nLPS will undertake a review of the arrangements to gather evidence to inform the revised Net Annual Values for Reval2020 with a view to exploring what may be done as part of the next non-domestic revaluation to improve the rate of returns from all classes of business.","answerHtml":"In April 2019 Land & Property Services (LPS) wrote to 44,487 occupiers of business properties seeking information on rent, lease and trading information. LPS followed up with reminders to those that did not respond. LPS did not write to property which is generally not available to rent, such as churches, schools, hospitals or universities. Vacant property was also excluded.
LPS received 20,600 responses, a return rate of 46%. Since publishing the draft schedule of values on 7 January LPS has received a further 23 responses.
LPS will undertake a review of the arrangements to gather evidence to inform the revised Net Annual Values for Reval2020 with a view to exploring what may be done as part of the next non-domestic revaluation to improve the rate of returns from all classes of business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202036%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294672","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294672"}},{"id":"294671","reference":"AQW 2035/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance how members of the Northern Ireland Civil Service are supported in familiarising themselves, understanding and accessing up to date workplace policies.","answerText":"All NICS HR policies are contained in the NICS Handbook with which line managers in all departments should be familiar. The Civil Service provides direct employee access to workplace policies through the Employee Services and the People Management portal icons on their desktop computer and / or laptop. NICS staff can search for up to date policy documents with supporting guidance.\n\nWhere a member of staff does not have direct access to a computer their line manager can provide information on NICS policies and procedures. Staff can also contact NICSHR and HR Connect to seek support and advice in their understanding of an HR policy/process and line managers can provide their officers with the necessary contact details. Staff who are a member of a recognised trade union can also seek information from their representatives.\n\nCaseworkers in Employee Relations (NICS HR) ensure staff with whom they come in contact know and understand how policies such as absence management, discipline, performance management and Dignity at Work operate. Welfare Officers provide advice and support to officers as part of the Welfare Service provided by the NICS; they also provide copies of policies and processes to officers. I would further advise Employee Relations is working closely with end users, and the Behavioural Science Unit (Department of Finance) to ensure policy and process matters are both user friendly and fully accessible for all staff.\n\nThe NICSHR Learning and Development (L&D) team provides further support in HR policy areas through training services. These training interventions are developed and maintained with the policy area and delivered through a mixture of face to face training and digital learning. Where an officer does not have access to a computer then line management provides information on what is available. Line managers complete mandatory training in such areas as performance management, and sickness absence management, so are well placed to inform their teams on key HR policies and processes.\n\nNICSHR Resourcing polices are contained within the HR Handbook. Relevant polices or terms are highlighted in individual external and internal recruitment exercises and links are provided on the NICS recruitment website and in the Weekly Opportunities Bulletins (WOB) issued to all staff. Hard copies of the WOB and resourcing policies can be provided, on request.","answerHtml":"All NICS HR policies are contained in the NICS Handbook with which line managers in all departments should be familiar. The Civil Service provides direct employee access to workplace policies through the Employee Services and the People Management portal icons on their desktop computer and / or laptop. NICS staff can search for up to date policy documents with supporting guidance.
Where a member of staff does not have direct access to a computer their line manager can provide information on NICS policies and procedures. Staff can also contact NICSHR and HR Connect to seek support and advice in their understanding of an HR policy/process and line managers can provide their officers with the necessary contact details. Staff who are a member of a recognised trade union can also seek information from their representatives.
Caseworkers in Employee Relations (NICS HR) ensure staff with whom they come in contact know and understand how policies such as absence management, discipline, performance management and Dignity at Work operate. Welfare Officers provide advice and support to officers as part of the Welfare Service provided by the NICS; they also provide copies of policies and processes to officers. I would further advise Employee Relations is working closely with end users, and the Behavioural Science Unit (Department of Finance) to ensure policy and process matters are both user friendly and fully accessible for all staff.
The NICSHR Learning and Development (L&D) team provides further support in HR policy areas through training services. These training interventions are developed and maintained with the policy area and delivered through a mixture of face to face training and digital learning. Where an officer does not have access to a computer then line management provides information on what is available. Line managers complete mandatory training in such areas as performance management, and sickness absence management, so are well placed to inform their teams on key HR policies and processes.
NICSHR Resourcing polices are contained within the HR Handbook. Relevant polices or terms are highlighted in individual external and internal recruitment exercises and links are provided on the NICS recruitment website and in the Weekly Opportunities Bulletins (WOB) issued to all staff. Hard copies of the WOB and resourcing policies can be provided, on request.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202035%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294671"}},{"id":"294670","reference":"AQW 2034/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he has any plans to introduce a free or subsided parking scheme for personnel at health and social care facilities.","answerText":"I have no plans to review my Department’s policy on car parking charges at this time.\n\nThe aim of my Department’s policy on car parking is to recover the cost of providing car parks across the Health Estate. It is the responsibility of each Health and Social Care Trust to determine the way the policy is applied to each of their sites to enable them to recover these costs.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to review my Department’s policy on car parking charges at this time.
The aim of my Department’s policy on car parking is to recover the cost of providing car parks across the Health Estate. It is the responsibility of each Health and Social Care Trust to determine the way the policy is applied to each of their sites to enable them to recover these costs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202034%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294670"}},{"id":"294669","reference":"AQW 2033/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-13","answerBy":"2020-02-28","answered":"2020-02-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health at what age children and young people can access child and adolescent mental health service (CAMHS) crisis services; and to outline the transition from CAMHS crisis services to adult mental health crisis services.","answerText":"All young people under the age of 18 can access CAMHS crisis response interventions.\n\nFor any young person who is currently receiving any service within CAMHS and needs to transition to adult mental health services, planning will commence 6 months in advance of the young person’s 18th birthday. If CAMHS is currently providing a service intervention to a young person in a crisis, CAMHS will continue until the crisis is resolved even after their 18th birthday or until a level of stability is achieved. At this stage, transition plans will be progressed and formulated on the basis of assessed need.","answerHtml":"All young people under the age of 18 can access CAMHS crisis response interventions.
For any young person who is currently receiving any service within CAMHS and needs to transition to adult mental health services, planning will commence 6 months in advance of the young person’s 18th birthday. If CAMHS is currently providing a service intervention to a young person in a crisis, CAMHS will continue until the crisis is resolved even after their 18th birthday or until a level of stability is achieved. At this stage, transition plans will be progressed and formulated on the basis of assessed need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%202033%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294669"}},{"id":"294427","reference":"AQW 1959/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-12","answerBy":"2020-02-27","answered":"2020-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) why private cardiology appointments, including surgery, have been suspended at Royal Victoria Hospital; (ii) when private cardiology appointments will resume; and (iii) for his assessment of how this will impact patients who opted to pay privately due to long waiting lists.","answerText":"Private treatment falls outside the remit of the Health and Social Care (HSC) sector and is therefore not a matter for my Department. The Belfast Trust has advised that private cardiac surgery has been temporarily suspended to allow the Trust to focus capacity and efforts on HSC patients. The Trust may be in a position to treat private patients again in the future, but this will be a matter for private providers to agree with the Belfast Trust.","answerHtml":"Private treatment falls outside the remit of the Health and Social Care (HSC) sector and is therefore not a matter for my Department. The Belfast Trust has advised that private cardiac surgery has been temporarily suspended to allow the Trust to focus capacity and efforts on HSC patients. The Trust may be in a position to treat private patients again in the future, but this will be a matter for private providers to agree with the Belfast Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201959%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294427"}},{"id":"294426","reference":"AQW 1958/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-12","answerBy":"2020-02-27","answered":"2020-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether all toilet facilities accessible for females, at each further education college, are equipped with sanitary product dispensers; and to confirm whether sanitary products are provided free of charge.","answerText":"In four of the six regional Further Education (FE) Colleges, all toilet facilities accessible to females, are equipped with sanitary product dispensers. In the other two colleges, the majority of accessible toilets also have these dispensers.\n\nWhile there is a small charge for using the product dispensers located in the toilet facilities, free sanitary products are available to students, at various college locations, in 28 of the 33 FE campuses. There are plans to extend this free service to the remaining five sites in the coming months.","answerHtml":"In four of the six regional Further Education (FE) Colleges, all toilet facilities accessible to females, are equipped with sanitary product dispensers. In the other two colleges, the majority of accessible toilets also have these dispensers.
While there is a small charge for using the product dispensers located in the toilet facilities, free sanitary products are available to students, at various college locations, in 28 of the 33 FE campuses. There are plans to extend this free service to the remaining five sites in the coming months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201958%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294426","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294426"}},{"id":"294425","reference":"AQW 1957/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-12","answerBy":"2020-02-27","answered":"2020-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether all toilet facilities accessible for females, at each university campus, are equipped with sanitary product dispensers; and to confirm whether sanitary products are provided free of charge.","answerText":"Accessibility to sanitary products varies across the Higher Educationinstitutions. At Queen’s University, the Student’s Union provides free sanitaryproducts in all toilets (female, male and accessible) in its buildings. UlsterUniversity has free to vend sanitary product dispensers installed in gender-neutral bathrooms across all four campuses. At Stranmillis University College not all female-accessible toilets are equipped with sanitary product dispensers, and where they are, they are not free. At St. Mary’s University College not all toilet facilities accessible by females are equipped with dispensers and they are not free, however free products will be made available on request. Given that the Open University is a distance learning institution, it does not have a university campus.","answerHtml":"Accessibility to sanitary products varies across the Higher Educationinstitutions. At Queen’s University, the Student’s Union provides free sanitaryproducts in all toilets (female, male and accessible) in its buildings. UlsterUniversity has free to vend sanitary product dispensers installed in gender-neutral bathrooms across all four campuses. At Stranmillis University College not all female-accessible toilets are equipped with sanitary product dispensers, and where they are, they are not free. At St. Mary’s University College not all toilet facilities accessible by females are equipped with dispensers and they are not free, however free products will be made available on request. Given that the Open University is a distance learning institution, it does not have a university campus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201957%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294425","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294425"}},{"id":"294424","reference":"AQW 1956/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-12","answerBy":"2020-02-27","answered":"2020-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy whether she believes that further and higher education institutions should be providing free sanitary products.","answerText":"I, like my colleagues across the UK, recognise that period poverty is a genuine issue. Officials from my Department are working with a number of other NI Executive Departments, as well as the devolved administrations, to seek a coordinated approach to addressing period poverty.\n\nThe six Further Education colleges in Northern Ireland provide access to free sanitary products within 28 of their campuses and plan to extend this service to the remaining sites in early 2020.\n\nIn relation to the higher education institutions, Queen’s University, Ulster University and St Mary’s University College Students’ Unions, in partnership with the universities, have provisions in place for free sanitary products in their student union premises.","answerHtml":"I, like my colleagues across the UK, recognise that period poverty is a genuine issue. Officials from my Department are working with a number of other NI Executive Departments, as well as the devolved administrations, to seek a coordinated approach to addressing period poverty.
The six Further Education colleges in Northern Ireland provide access to free sanitary products within 28 of their campuses and plan to extend this service to the remaining sites in early 2020.
In relation to the higher education institutions, Queen’s University, Ulster University and St Mary’s University College Students’ Unions, in partnership with the universities, have provisions in place for free sanitary products in their student union premises.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201956%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294424"}},{"id":"294423","reference":"AQW 1955/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-12","answerBy":"2020-02-27","answered":"2020-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline how train and bus stations are prepared for adverse weather, including icy conditions, to ensure the safety of passengers and personnel.","answerText":"The safety of those using public transport services is of paramount importance to my Department and Translink. Translink has in place a detailed plan of action in order to respond to adverse weather and ensure the safety of passengers and personnel as well as the continued safe operation of bus and rail services. In line with this, arrangements are in place for salting/gritting surfaces at platforms and walkways at bus and rail stations, including unmanned railway halts. Staff clear platforms in snow and icy conditions and, in extreme, conditions they remove snow/ice from the track infrastructure at junction points.","answerHtml":"The safety of those using public transport services is of paramount importance to my Department and Translink. Translink has in place a detailed plan of action in order to respond to adverse weather and ensure the safety of passengers and personnel as well as the continued safe operation of bus and rail services. In line with this, arrangements are in place for salting/gritting surfaces at platforms and walkways at bus and rail stations, including unmanned railway halts. Staff clear platforms in snow and icy conditions and, in extreme, conditions they remove snow/ice from the track infrastructure at junction points.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201955%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=294423","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=294423"}},{"id":"293602","reference":"AQW 1656/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-21","answered":"2020-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health (i) to detail the number of patients in each Health and Social Care Trust who have accessed the NI Primary Eye-care Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) since it was introduced; (ii) to detail the cost of this service per patient compared with a similar assessment and referral service provided by a GP; and (iii) how NI PEARS can reduce waiting times, increase access to eye-care services and relieve pressure from other primary care providers.","answerText":"The numbers of patients accessing the Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) since it was introduced in March 2018 are set out in the table below by Local Commissioning Group (LCG) area.\n\nThe cost of the service per patient is £40 for a first assessment and £15 for a follow up appointment. The funding model for GP attendances does not allow for a direct comparison to be made.\n\nFirst assessment\tFollow up\nBelfast LCG\t6,497\t625\nWestern LCG\t6,306\t687\nSouthern LCG\t9,258\t988\nNorthern LCG\t4,832\t453\nSouth Eastern LCG\t3,628\t400\nTotal\t30,521\t3,153\n\nNI PEARS provides the first point of contact for patients who develop a sudden acute previously undiagnosed eye problem. There is appropriate regional provision, with 235 optometric practices across Northern Ireland accredited to provide the service. Approximately 80% of NI PEARS presentations are managed by the optometrist in practice without the need for onward referral, releasing capacity in both primary care GP practices and secondary care ophthalmology departments.","answerHtml":"The numbers of patients accessing the Northern Ireland Primary Eyecare Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) since it was introduced in March 2018 are set out in the table below by Local Commissioning Group (LCG) area.
The cost of the service per patient is £40 for a first assessment and £15 for a follow up appointment. The funding model for GP attendances does not allow for a direct comparison to be made.
| First assessment | Follow up | |
| Belfast LCG | 6,497 | 625 |
| Western LCG | 6,306 | 687 |
| Southern LCG | 9,258 | 988 |
| Northern LCG | 4,832 | 453 |
| South Eastern LCG | 3,628 | 400 |
| Total | 30,521 | 3,153 |
NI PEARS provides the first point of contact for patients who develop a sudden acute previously undiagnosed eye problem. There is appropriate regional provision, with 235 optometric practices across Northern Ireland accredited to provide the service. Approximately 80% of NI PEARS presentations are managed by the optometrist in practice without the need for onward referral, releasing capacity in both primary care GP practices and secondary care ophthalmology departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201656%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293602"}},{"id":"293601","reference":"AQW 1655/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-21","answered":"2020-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health whether he intends to extend funding for the NI Primary Eye-care Assessment and Referral Services in each Health and Social Care Trust in the 2020/21 financial year; and whether he will consider funding the scheme for a longer period than a year.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eye-care Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) is funded from the General Ophthalmic Services budget. The service is already provided across all Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nThe ability to provide certainty of future funding for individual services is constrained by the time period over which the Northern Ireland Executive, and in turn the Department, are allocated funding.\n\nThe Department has faced consecutive single year budgets which is far from ideal in terms of financial management and the planning and management of our services. I will continue to seek the kind of multi-year funding commitments that are necessary if health and social care services are to be put on a sustainable footing.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Primary Eye-care Assessment and Referral Service (NI PEARS) is funded from the General Ophthalmic Services budget. The service is already provided across all Health and Social Care Trusts.
The ability to provide certainty of future funding for individual services is constrained by the time period over which the Northern Ireland Executive, and in turn the Department, are allocated funding.
The Department has faced consecutive single year budgets which is far from ideal in terms of financial management and the planning and management of our services. I will continue to seek the kind of multi-year funding commitments that are necessary if health and social care services are to be put on a sustainable footing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201655%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293601","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293601"}},{"id":"293600","reference":"AQW 1654/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-21","answered":"2020-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to detail the average waiting time from (i) primary care referral to intial cataract appointment; and (ii) cataract appointment to cataract surgery.","answerText":"Information on waiting times from primary care referral to initial cataract appointment is not held centrally.\n\nThe latest provisional figures, relating to quarter ending September 2019, indicate that the average waiting time, from the decision to admit, for cataract surgery in Northern Ireland was 37.1 weeks. These completed waits do not take account of any suspensions from the waiting list. It should be noted that patients who are admitted non-electively do not have a date waiting. Only elective surgeries are included.","answerHtml":"Information on waiting times from primary care referral to initial cataract appointment is not held centrally.
The latest provisional figures, relating to quarter ending September 2019, indicate that the average waiting time, from the decision to admit, for cataract surgery in Northern Ireland was 37.1 weeks. These completed waits do not take account of any suspensions from the waiting list. It should be noted that patients who are admitted non-electively do not have a date waiting. Only elective surgeries are included.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201654%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293600"}},{"id":"293599","reference":"AQW 1653/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-21","answered":"2020-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health for his assessment of the impact of delayed cataract surgery due to waiting lists, including the legal impediment to drive if the patient’s condition deteriorates.","answerText":"Cataracts related to aging often develop very slowly and patients diagnosed with cataracts are normally listed for routine surgery.\n\nIf a patient feels that there is a change in clinical circumstances which might affect their ability to drive, they can either contact their Optometrist or GP for re-examination or follow up referral.\n\nThe Hospital Eye Care Service will review the clinical information provided and determine if surgery needs brought forward.","answerHtml":"Cataracts related to aging often develop very slowly and patients diagnosed with cataracts are normally listed for routine surgery.
If a patient feels that there is a change in clinical circumstances which might affect their ability to drive, they can either contact their Optometrist or GP for re-examination or follow up referral.
The Hospital Eye Care Service will review the clinical information provided and determine if surgery needs brought forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201653%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293599","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293599"}},{"id":"293598","reference":"AQW 1652/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-21","answered":"2020-02-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health what initiatives he is considering to relieve demand on GP services.","answerText":"Initiatives to support GPs, drive transformation and deliver better care while decreasing bureaucracy and the pressure on GP services include:\n\nThe GP Induction and Refresher Scheme which supports GPs to safely return to general practice following a career break or time spent working abroad. It also supports the safe introduction of overseas GPs. At the end of January 2020, 8 doctors had completed the scheme, with a further 3 completing the scheme.\n\nThe GP Retainer Scheme which assists in the retention of GPs in primary care in Northern Ireland. At the end of January 2020, 22 doctors were currently on the GP Scheme.\n\nThe introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners who are able to undertake comprehensive assessment of patients, formulate diagnosis and negotiate a management plan including prescribing treatment, monitoring health outcomes and making onward referrals as appropriate.\n\nThere are currently 274 Practice based Pharmacists in place and all GP practices have access to their services and expertise, to support better medication management and prescribing for patients.\n\nTraining non-clinical staff to help take on tasks such as correspondence, clinical coding, the deployment of decision support systems and introduction of technology to improve the service to patients and help GPs better manage workload.\n\nIncreasing the number of GP training places available from 65 in 2015 to 111 in 2020 – a 70% increase.\n\nWe are reshaping primary care services. The roll-out of Multi-Disciplinary Teams is delivering new capacity and innovation into primary care, bringing services closer to our communities and improving access for all our citizens. We are delivering MDTs in every trust area, improving access to physiotherapy, mental health support and social workers. MDTs are a cornerstone of our plans to transform the health service and will make an important contribution to the long term sustainability of general practice.","answerHtml":"Initiatives to support GPs, drive transformation and deliver better care while decreasing bureaucracy and the pressure on GP services include:
The GP Induction and Refresher Scheme which supports GPs to safely return to general practice following a career break or time spent working abroad. It also supports the safe introduction of overseas GPs. At the end of January 2020, 8 doctors had completed the scheme, with a further 3 completing the scheme.
The GP Retainer Scheme which assists in the retention of GPs in primary care in Northern Ireland. At the end of January 2020, 22 doctors were currently on the GP Scheme.
The introduction of Advanced Nurse Practitioners who are able to undertake comprehensive assessment of patients, formulate diagnosis and negotiate a management plan including prescribing treatment, monitoring health outcomes and making onward referrals as appropriate.
There are currently 274 Practice based Pharmacists in place and all GP practices have access to their services and expertise, to support better medication management and prescribing for patients.
Training non-clinical staff to help take on tasks such as correspondence, clinical coding, the deployment of decision support systems and introduction of technology to improve the service to patients and help GPs better manage workload.
Increasing the number of GP training places available from 65 in 2015 to 111 in 2020 – a 70% increase.
We are reshaping primary care services. The roll-out of Multi-Disciplinary Teams is delivering new capacity and innovation into primary care, bringing services closer to our communities and improving access for all our citizens. We are delivering MDTs in every trust area, improving access to physiotherapy, mental health support and social workers. MDTs are a cornerstone of our plans to transform the health service and will make an important contribution to the long term sustainability of general practice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201652%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293598","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293598"}},{"id":"295394","reference":"AQO 162/17-22","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-06","answerBy":"2020-02-17","answered":"2020-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities for her assessment of the Personal Independence Payment appeals process.","answerText":"My Department is committed to getting benefit entitlement decisions right first time and to resolving disputes against decisions at the earliest stage in the process, avoiding the need for referral to an independent Appeal Tribunal. The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) appeals process has been designed to deliver these commitments to the people who submit a claim for PIP.\n\nBefore a person can make an appeal against a PIP decision they must first ask for the decision to be formally looked at again. This is known as a Mandatory Reconsideration. Since PIP was introduced over 20% of Mandatory Reconsideration requests have resulted in a change to the original PIP decision because additional evidence has been provided which was not available to the officer who made the initial decision.\n\nIf, following the Mandatory Reconsideration, a person still wishes to appeal against the PIP decision they must submit their appeal in writing or by completing an appeal form to The Appeals Service (TAS). An appeal must be received by TAS within one month from the date of the Mandatory Reconsideration decision.\n\nSince its introduction on 20 June 2016 just over 200,000 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decisions have been made. Approximately 10% of these decisions have proceeded to appeal. The number of decisions overturned at appeal represents 3% of all decisions made.\n\nDecisions overturned at appeal are primarily because either additional evidence was presented at the Appeal Tribunal which was not available to the officer who made the decision or that the Tribunal took a different view of the evidence available to the Department when the decision was made, with neither conclusion being unreasonable. My Department has recently introduced improvements to the Mandatory Reconsideration process which is intended to obtain any additional information at that point which may lead to decisions being revised and prevent unnecessary appeals.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to getting benefit entitlement decisions right first time and to resolving disputes against decisions at the earliest stage in the process, avoiding the need for referral to an independent Appeal Tribunal. The Personal Independence Payment (PIP) appeals process has been designed to deliver these commitments to the people who submit a claim for PIP.
Before a person can make an appeal against a PIP decision they must first ask for the decision to be formally looked at again. This is known as a Mandatory Reconsideration. Since PIP was introduced over 20% of Mandatory Reconsideration requests have resulted in a change to the original PIP decision because additional evidence has been provided which was not available to the officer who made the initial decision.
If, following the Mandatory Reconsideration, a person still wishes to appeal against the PIP decision they must submit their appeal in writing or by completing an appeal form to The Appeals Service (TAS). An appeal must be received by TAS within one month from the date of the Mandatory Reconsideration decision.
Since its introduction on 20 June 2016 just over 200,000 Personal Independence Payment (PIP) decisions have been made. Approximately 10% of these decisions have proceeded to appeal. The number of decisions overturned at appeal represents 3% of all decisions made.
Decisions overturned at appeal are primarily because either additional evidence was presented at the Appeal Tribunal which was not available to the officer who made the decision or that the Tribunal took a different view of the evidence available to the Department when the decision was made, with neither conclusion being unreasonable. My Department has recently introduced improvements to the Mandatory Reconsideration process which is intended to obtain any additional information at that point which may lead to decisions being revised and prevent unnecessary appeals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%20162%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=295394","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=295394"}},{"id":"293006","reference":"AQW 1397/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-03","answerBy":"2020-02-18","answered":"2020-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has any plans to address congestion and road safety issues with the Minister for Infrastructure around Castlerock Road, Coleraine, considering the expected increase in the schools’ population following the full implementation of the area plan.","answerText":"I am aware of the implications for traffic management around Castlerock Road, Coleraine following the implementation of the area plan. While I have had no direct discussions with the Minister for Infrastructure on traffic issues in the area, my officials and the Department’s technical advisers have been working with various stakeholders and the planning authorities to seek to mitigate additional congestion and road safety issues around Loreto College and Coleraine Grammar School.","answerHtml":"I am aware of the implications for traffic management around Castlerock Road, Coleraine following the implementation of the area plan. While I have had no direct discussions with the Minister for Infrastructure on traffic issues in the area, my officials and the Department’s technical advisers have been working with various stakeholders and the planning authorities to seek to mitigate additional congestion and road safety issues around Loreto College and Coleraine Grammar School.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201397%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293006"}},{"id":"293005","reference":"AQW 1396/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-03","answerBy":"2020-02-18","answered":"2020-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Communities","question":"To ask the Minister for Communities to detail the changes to the Sub-Regional Stadia Programme funding scheme.","answerText":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is one of the commitments in the “New Decade, New Approach” Agreement and it provides a real opportunity to contribute to the delivery of wider government priorities and to address a range of social, economic and cultural needs, whilst also meeting the needs of the football family.\n\nImprovements to existing stadia and any new developments must prioritise health and safety provision, be fully accessible, inclusive, sustainable and be based on realistic need.\n\nI am fully committed to delivering on this priority area and to ensuring that the Executive endorsed programme meets the current and future needs of the game.\n\nTo this end, I have asked my officials to take forward work to engage with key strategic stakeholders including the IFA, the NI Football League and representatives from District Councils. Once this engagement has been completed, I will then consider proposals to take the Programme forward.","answerHtml":"The Sub Regional Stadia Programme for Soccer is one of the commitments in the “New Decade, New Approach” Agreement and it provides a real opportunity to contribute to the delivery of wider government priorities and to address a range of social, economic and cultural needs, whilst also meeting the needs of the football family.
Improvements to existing stadia and any new developments must prioritise health and safety provision, be fully accessible, inclusive, sustainable and be based on realistic need.
I am fully committed to delivering on this priority area and to ensuring that the Executive endorsed programme meets the current and future needs of the game.
To this end, I have asked my officials to take forward work to engage with key strategic stakeholders including the IFA, the NI Football League and representatives from District Councils. Once this engagement has been completed, I will then consider proposals to take the Programme forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201396%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293005"}},{"id":"293004","reference":"AQW 1395/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-03","answerBy":"2020-02-18","answered":"2020-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (i) to outline his Department’s strategy for managing coastal erosion and coastal changes; (ii) whether he will seek to have coastal erosion considered within the Executive’s strategy for climate change; and (iii) to detail any published reports since May 2016.","answerText":"(i)My Department does not have a specific strategy on managing coastal erosion and coastal change, however these are included in wider Departmental policies. These include the Marine Policy Statement and the draft Marine Plan which provide a framework for any decision making that affects the Northern Ireland marine area. Additionally, the Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-2024 identifies actions that relate to coastal erosion\n\n(ii)I look forward to considering with my Executive colleagues how these policy frameworks can help inform climate change strategy.\n\n(iii)In January 2019, DAERA and DfI jointly published the ‘Baseline Study and Gap Analysis of Coastal Erosion Risk Management NI’. This report made a number of recommendations and my Department is working with DfI and the Coastal Forum to develop a Coastal Forum work programme that can progress these recommendations. The report can be found at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/coastal-erosion-risk-management-report-2019.pdf. No other reports relating to this matter have been published.","answerHtml":"(i)My Department does not have a specific strategy on managing coastal erosion and coastal change, however these are included in wider Departmental policies. These include the Marine Policy Statement and the draft Marine Plan which provide a framework for any decision making that affects the Northern Ireland marine area. Additionally, the Northern Ireland Climate Change Adaptation Programme 2019-2024 identifies actions that relate to coastal erosion
(ii)I look forward to considering with my Executive colleagues how these policy frameworks can help inform climate change strategy.
(iii)In January 2019, DAERA and DfI jointly published the ‘Baseline Study and Gap Analysis of Coastal Erosion Risk Management NI’. This report made a number of recommendations and my Department is working with DfI and the Coastal Forum to develop a Coastal Forum work programme that can progress these recommendations. The report can be found at https://www.infrastructure-ni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/infrastructure/coastal-erosion-risk-management-report-2019.pdf. No other reports relating to this matter have been published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201395%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293004"}},{"id":"293003","reference":"AQW 1394/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-02-03","answerBy":"2020-02-18","answered":"2020-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure (i) for her assessment of the Travel to and from school by pupils in Northern Ireland 2018/19; (ii) to outline her plans to address the issues raised in the report; (iii) how she is working with other Departments to address the issues raised in the report; and (iv) to outline an expected timeframe for her actions.","answerText":"I am very disappointed that there has been a reduction in the proportion of primary school pupils walking or cycling to school from 32% to 23% since 2013/14. This highlights the challenge that we face in changing our travel habits to more sustainable behaviours.\n\nIn terms of addressing the issues raised in the ‘Travel to and from school by pupils’ 2018/19 report, I want to take some time to carefully consider how best to address the barriers to walking and cycling – including the journey to and from school. In doing so, I am keen to work with other Departments and stakeholders to address the key issues.\n\nCurrently, my Department jointly funds (with the Public Health Agency) the Active School Travel Programme. This programme is operated in sixty new schools each year with the aim of encouraging children to travel to school by walking, cycling, scooting or other sustainable means. In addition, every primary school is invited to participate in the Cycling Proficiency Scheme. In 2019/20, almost 350 primary schools and over six thousand children participated. Thirdly, the Practical Child Pedestrians Safety Training programme is offered to selected schools in the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland. In 2019/20, 40 primary schools and almost 1,500 children participated in the scheme. My Department also provides schools with free road safety teaching resources.\n\nDeveloping active travel policies is something that I am keen to progress within the budget that is made available to me. However, it is too early for me to be in a position to provide a timeframe for further actions.","answerHtml":"I am very disappointed that there has been a reduction in the proportion of primary school pupils walking or cycling to school from 32% to 23% since 2013/14. This highlights the challenge that we face in changing our travel habits to more sustainable behaviours.
In terms of addressing the issues raised in the ‘Travel to and from school by pupils’ 2018/19 report, I want to take some time to carefully consider how best to address the barriers to walking and cycling – including the journey to and from school. In doing so, I am keen to work with other Departments and stakeholders to address the key issues.
Currently, my Department jointly funds (with the Public Health Agency) the Active School Travel Programme. This programme is operated in sixty new schools each year with the aim of encouraging children to travel to school by walking, cycling, scooting or other sustainable means. In addition, every primary school is invited to participate in the Cycling Proficiency Scheme. In 2019/20, almost 350 primary schools and over six thousand children participated. Thirdly, the Practical Child Pedestrians Safety Training programme is offered to selected schools in the most deprived areas in Northern Ireland. In 2019/20, 40 primary schools and almost 1,500 children participated in the scheme. My Department also provides schools with free road safety teaching resources.
Developing active travel policies is something that I am keen to progress within the budget that is made available to me. However, it is too early for me to be in a position to provide a timeframe for further actions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%201394%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=293003","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=293003"}},{"id":"291284","reference":"AQW 488/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline what invest to save opportunities exist within his Department.","answerText":"The following invest to save opportunities currently exist within the Department.\n\nVoluntary Exit Schemes (VES)\n\nDuring 2019-20, the Department received funding for Voluntary Exit Schemes for Teaching and Non-Teaching staff within the education sector. The primary aim of these schemes is to assist schools and arm’s length bodies to reduce their cost base through a reduction in full-time equivalent staffing numbers.\n\nEducation Transformation Programme\n\nThe Education Transformation Programme is considering how the education system could be reformed to ensure it is sustainable, effective and efficient - with positive outcomes for children and young people. While elements of the Programme may result in recommendations relating to invest to save measures, it is too early to say at this stage.\n\nAs agreed in the New Decade, New Approach agreement, it is proposed that there will be an Independent Review of Education Provision. I will give due consideration to the design and delivery of this, including such issues as how the Review will interact with existing Departmental work and the Transformation Programme.\n\nCapital\n\nThere are several areas within the schools’ estate where capital investment can lead to savings, such as:\n\n• the provision of water and energy monitors;\n\n• the upgrading to LED lighting;\n\n• the replacement of windows to reduce heat loss;\n\n• the replacement of aging heating systems; and\n\n• the installation of solar panels.\n\nArea Planning\n\nWhile the Sustainable Schools Policy is an educational and not a financial policy, it requires investment in Area Planning to further the aim of developing a network of educationally and financially viable schools across Northern Ireland in order that all children have access to a broad and balanced curriculum. To effect real change, both resource and capital funding would be required. Having the right number of schools, of the right size, in the right location, will allow the maximisation of educational resources.\n\nIt is also important to recognise that all of the work of the Department is aimed at providing children and young people with the best start in life. There are therefore many work streams, projects, initiatives and interventions that, while not specifically identified as invest to save opportunities, are targeted at achieving better outcomes for society in the future.","answerHtml":"The following invest to save opportunities currently exist within the Department.
Voluntary Exit Schemes (VES)
During 2019-20, the Department received funding for Voluntary Exit Schemes for Teaching and Non-Teaching staff within the education sector. The primary aim of these schemes is to assist schools and arm’s length bodies to reduce their cost base through a reduction in full-time equivalent staffing numbers.
Education Transformation Programme
The Education Transformation Programme is considering how the education system could be reformed to ensure it is sustainable, effective and efficient - with positive outcomes for children and young people. While elements of the Programme may result in recommendations relating to invest to save measures, it is too early to say at this stage.
As agreed in the New Decade, New Approach agreement, it is proposed that there will be an Independent Review of Education Provision. I will give due consideration to the design and delivery of this, including such issues as how the Review will interact with existing Departmental work and the Transformation Programme.
Capital
There are several areas within the schools’ estate where capital investment can lead to savings, such as:
• the provision of water and energy monitors;
• the upgrading to LED lighting;
• the replacement of windows to reduce heat loss;
• the replacement of aging heating systems; and
• the installation of solar panels.
Area Planning
While the Sustainable Schools Policy is an educational and not a financial policy, it requires investment in Area Planning to further the aim of developing a network of educationally and financially viable schools across Northern Ireland in order that all children have access to a broad and balanced curriculum. To effect real change, both resource and capital funding would be required. Having the right number of schools, of the right size, in the right location, will allow the maximisation of educational resources.
It is also important to recognise that all of the work of the Department is aimed at providing children and young people with the best start in life. There are therefore many work streams, projects, initiatives and interventions that, while not specifically identified as invest to save opportunities, are targeted at achieving better outcomes for society in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20488%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291284","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291284"}},{"id":"291283","reference":"AQW 487/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to outline what invest to save opportunities exist within her Department.","answerText":"My Department has three invest to save opportunities which are currently being proposed but are dependent on additional funding. The first involves a review of the Further Education (FE) Sector delivery model. The second proposal, known as Transform to Deliver, will consider how the FE sector is resourced to support future delivery of skills and in providing support for business and industry. The third proposal is to fund a joint project with the Department of Education known as Transition of Young People into Careers.\n\nMy Department is also leading the Energy Management Strategy for Central Government, which has set an ambitious target of lowering net energy consumption by 30% by 2030 across Government (from a 2016/17 baseline year). The Strategy includes a proposal to establish an energy ‘invest to save’ fund to take forward projects across Government that will reduce energy consumption and cost in existing buildings. The Strategic Investment Board and the Department of Finance are currently working to agree the nature and timing of the proposed fund.\n\nIn addition £220 million is being invested in delivery of six new FE College Campuses, this significant investment will yield running cost savings and provide modern, fit for purpose campuses.\n\nMy Department will continue to explore opportunities to invest to save.","answerHtml":"My Department has three invest to save opportunities which are currently being proposed but are dependent on additional funding. The first involves a review of the Further Education (FE) Sector delivery model. The second proposal, known as Transform to Deliver, will consider how the FE sector is resourced to support future delivery of skills and in providing support for business and industry. The third proposal is to fund a joint project with the Department of Education known as Transition of Young People into Careers.
My Department is also leading the Energy Management Strategy for Central Government, which has set an ambitious target of lowering net energy consumption by 30% by 2030 across Government (from a 2016/17 baseline year). The Strategy includes a proposal to establish an energy ‘invest to save’ fund to take forward projects across Government that will reduce energy consumption and cost in existing buildings. The Strategic Investment Board and the Department of Finance are currently working to agree the nature and timing of the proposed fund.
In addition £220 million is being invested in delivery of six new FE College Campuses, this significant investment will yield running cost savings and provide modern, fit for purpose campuses.
My Department will continue to explore opportunities to invest to save.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20487%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291283","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291283"}},{"id":"291282","reference":"AQW 486/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline what invest to save opportunities exist within his Department.","answerText":"A number of invest to save opportunities exist within the Department of Health across a range of themes. Some examples include energy saving and other revenue releasing schemes, and a medicines efficiency programme to optimise and accelerate medicines savings. Greater investment in prevention and early intervention can also reduce demand for treatment services. For example, there are opportunities across diabetes prevention, education and foot care, immunisation and screening programmes, HIV risk reduction, and a range of prevention and early intervention programmes for children and families including the development of emotional resilience early in life.","answerHtml":"A number of invest to save opportunities exist within the Department of Health across a range of themes. Some examples include energy saving and other revenue releasing schemes, and a medicines efficiency programme to optimise and accelerate medicines savings. Greater investment in prevention and early intervention can also reduce demand for treatment services. For example, there are opportunities across diabetes prevention, education and foot care, immunisation and screening programmes, HIV risk reduction, and a range of prevention and early intervention programmes for children and families including the development of emotional resilience early in life.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20486%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291282"}},{"id":"291281","reference":"AQW 485/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs to outline what invest to save opportunities exist within her Department.","answerText":"I am currently considering a range of investment proposals as part of the Budget 2020-21 exercise. This work is ongoing and there will be more clarity whenever the Executive agrees funding for my Department for next year.","answerHtml":"I am currently considering a range of investment proposals as part of the Budget 2020-21 exercise. This work is ongoing and there will be more clarity whenever the Executive agrees funding for my Department for next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20485%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291281"}},{"id":"291280","reference":"AQW 484/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-17","answerBy":"2020-02-03","answered":"2020-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Infrastructure","question":"To ask the Minister for Infrastructure to outline what invest to save opportunities exist within her Department","answerText":"I have provided a list below of potential opportunities for Invest to Save that exist in my department, however you should be aware that the capital expenditure required to implement these projects cannot be afforded from the current budget allocation available to me.\n\nRoads - Retro-fit non-LED luminaires with LED\n\nthis invest to save initiative reduces electricity consumption by replacing yellow sodium street lights with energy efficient LEDs.\n\nNIW - Energy efficiency\n\nby the development and sourcing of more energy efficiency solutions in the provisions of water and wastewater services and by maximising strategic aspects of energy contracts with better interaction with the external energy supplier market;\n\nNIW - Renewable Generation\n\nthe application of renewable energy solutions from the supply market in terms of the installation of alternative power generation (e.g. solar farms, wind turbines), and also the implementation of energy contracts that are based on sourcing electricity from renewable sources; and\n\nNIW - Energy storage\n\nby using ‘battery farms’ to store renewable energy for use in terms of feeding the grid or recharging a future electric vehicle fleet. The funding would specifically be used for implementing a battery energy storage system as a means of gaining benefits while testing the viability of a more strategic solution.","answerHtml":"I have provided a list below of potential opportunities for Invest to Save that exist in my department, however you should be aware that the capital expenditure required to implement these projects cannot be afforded from the current budget allocation available to me.
Roads - Retro-fit non-LED luminaires with LED
this invest to save initiative reduces electricity consumption by replacing yellow sodium street lights with energy efficient LEDs.
NIW - Energy efficiency
by the development and sourcing of more energy efficiency solutions in the provisions of water and wastewater services and by maximising strategic aspects of energy contracts with better interaction with the external energy supplier market;
NIW - Renewable Generation
the application of renewable energy solutions from the supply market in terms of the installation of alternative power generation (e.g. solar farms, wind turbines), and also the implementation of energy contracts that are based on sourcing electricity from renewable sources; and
NIW - Energy storage
by using ‘battery farms’ to store renewable energy for use in terms of feeding the grid or recharging a future electric vehicle fleet. The funding would specifically be used for implementing a battery energy storage system as a means of gaining benefits while testing the viability of a more strategic solution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20484%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291280"}},{"id":"291113","reference":"AQW 381/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-16","answerBy":"2020-01-31","answered":"2020-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline any conditions imposed by Treasury regarding expenditure of additional financial support coming from the Confidence and Supply Agreement, including dates when monies must be used.","answerText":"The Confidence and Supply funding was ring-fenced for the following purposes:\n\nArea\tTotal (£million)\tTime Period\nInfrastructure Development\t400\t2 years\nUltra-fast Broadband\t150\t2 years\nTargeting Pockets of Severe Deprivation\t100\t5 years\nHealth and Education Pressures\t100\t2 years\nHealth Transformation\t200\t2 years\nMental Health\t50\t5 years\n\n£760 million was allocated in the period 2017-18 to 2019-20. £240 million of the funding (£150 million for Broadband, £60 million for tackling severe deprivation and £30 million for Mental Health) has now been withdrawn.","answerHtml":"The Confidence and Supply funding was ring-fenced for the following purposes:
| Area | Total (£million) | Time Period |
| Infrastructure Development | 400 | 2 years |
| Ultra-fast Broadband | 150 | 2 years |
| Targeting Pockets of Severe Deprivation | 100 | 5 years |
| Health and Education Pressures | 100 | 2 years |
| Health Transformation | 200 | 2 years |
| Mental Health | 50 | 5 years |
£760 million was allocated in the period 2017-18 to 2019-20. £240 million of the funding (£150 million for Broadband, £60 million for tackling severe deprivation and £30 million for Mental Health) has now been withdrawn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20381%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291113"}},{"id":"291112","reference":"AQW 380/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-16","answerBy":"2020-01-31","answered":"2020-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to detail any unspent monies, both (i) capital; and (ii) resource, sent back to the Treasury by each Department, broken down by the last three financial years.","answerText":"I can confirm that no departmental underspends in the last three years in non ring-fenced Resource DEL or Capital DEL have been returned. All departmental underspends in these areas have been accessed in the following year through the Budget Exchange Scheme.\n\nRing-fenced Resource DEL funding can only be used for the non-cash costs of depreciation and certain types of impairment. As this funding cannot be used for other purposes the amount unused at the year-end has not been accessed through the Budget Exchange Scheme. The amounts in each of the last 3 years are shown in the table below.\n\nA significant amount of Financial Transactions Capital funding has been returned. This represents unused funding as opposed to departmental underspends. The amounts in each of the last 3 years are shown in the table below.\n\n£million\t2016-17\t2017-18\t2018-19\nRing-fenced Resource DEL\t96.5\t100.7\t83.0\nFinancial Transactions Capital\t34.5\t109.4\t171.9\n\nGoing forward, I am keen to ensure a significant uptake in the use of Financial Transactions Capital. My officials are liaising with the Strategic Investment Board to examine the issues and I have asked that they also engage with other departments to identify additional ways in which this funding can be used.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that no departmental underspends in the last three years in non ring-fenced Resource DEL or Capital DEL have been returned. All departmental underspends in these areas have been accessed in the following year through the Budget Exchange Scheme.
Ring-fenced Resource DEL funding can only be used for the non-cash costs of depreciation and certain types of impairment. As this funding cannot be used for other purposes the amount unused at the year-end has not been accessed through the Budget Exchange Scheme. The amounts in each of the last 3 years are shown in the table below.
A significant amount of Financial Transactions Capital funding has been returned. This represents unused funding as opposed to departmental underspends. The amounts in each of the last 3 years are shown in the table below.
| £million | 2016-17 | 2017-18 | 2018-19 |
| Ring-fenced Resource DEL | 96.5 | 100.7 | 83.0 |
| Financial Transactions Capital | 34.5 | 109.4 | 171.9 |
Going forward, I am keen to ensure a significant uptake in the use of Financial Transactions Capital. My officials are liaising with the Strategic Investment Board to examine the issues and I have asked that they also engage with other departments to identify additional ways in which this funding can be used.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20380%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291112"}},{"id":"291111","reference":"AQW 379/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-16","answerBy":"2020-01-31","answered":"2020-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance to outline all opportunities to raise revenue arising before the end of the current mandate.","answerText":"Opportunities for revenue raising will be examined by individual Ministers as part of the overall Budget process which will be considered by the Executive in due course.","answerHtml":"Opportunities for revenue raising will be examined by individual Ministers as part of the overall Budget process which will be considered by the Executive in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20379%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291111"}},{"id":"291110","reference":"AQW 378/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-16","answerBy":"2020-01-31","answered":"2020-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance whether he intends to meet with industrial and non-industrial unions to discuss (i) their claim for an above-inflation pay increase on both pay and allowances; (ii) pay restoration to address the pay loss since 2010 and; (iii) further scale shortening for all grades from AA to Grade 6.","answerText":"NICS pay awards in the past decade were determined in a challenging financial environment. The non-ring fenced Resource DEL block grant has reduced in real terms by £530 million from 2010-11. Affordability continues to be an important consideration in negotiating a pay award for 2019/20. I met with officials from the Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance on 22 January. A meeting has not yet been requested by or arranged with the industrial trades unions. I will be working closely with Departmental officials to progress and resolve the NICS 2019/20 pay award for all Civil Service staff as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"NICS pay awards in the past decade were determined in a challenging financial environment. The non-ring fenced Resource DEL block grant has reduced in real terms by £530 million from 2010-11. Affordability continues to be an important consideration in negotiating a pay award for 2019/20. I met with officials from the Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance on 22 January. A meeting has not yet been requested by or arranged with the industrial trades unions. I will be working closely with Departmental officials to progress and resolve the NICS 2019/20 pay award for all Civil Service staff as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20378%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291110"}},{"id":"291109","reference":"AQW 377/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-16","answerBy":"2020-01-31","answered":"2020-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance (i) for his assessment of the working environment in the Northern Ireland Prison Service and; (ii) how he plans to support personnel through Civil Service sickness policies if sickness absence is work related.","answerText":"Whilst the Prison Service falls under Department of Justice all the Civil Service staff working there, including prison officers, are supported by the civil service sickness absence policies as follows. Staff can self-refer to Inspire, the civil service counselling service, and or obtain assistance from the Welfare Service and the Occupational Health Service. Also, all prison establishments still retain on site HR teams to provide face to face service for all staff. Furthermore, an additional professional support service operated by the Police Rehabilitation & Retraining Trust was introduced in the summer of 2017 for those operational staff who are suffering from mental health issues or who require physiotherapy treatment.","answerHtml":"Whilst the Prison Service falls under Department of Justice all the Civil Service staff working there, including prison officers, are supported by the civil service sickness absence policies as follows. Staff can self-refer to Inspire, the civil service counselling service, and or obtain assistance from the Welfare Service and the Occupational Health Service. Also, all prison establishments still retain on site HR teams to provide face to face service for all staff. Furthermore, an additional professional support service operated by the Police Rehabilitation & Retraining Trust was introduced in the summer of 2017 for those operational staff who are suffering from mental health issues or who require physiotherapy treatment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20377%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=291109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=291109"}},{"id":"290995","reference":"AQW 297/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-15","answerBy":"2020-01-20","answered":"2020-01-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, further to his statement to the Assembly on 14 January 2020, (i) which bands of Health and Social Care staff will receive pay parity with England; (ii) whether domestic and support services will receive an uplift; (iii) when staff will receive payment and; (iv) whether pay parity will be backdated to the beginning of financial year 2019/20.","answerText":"(i) Pay parity with England will apply to all Bands.\n\n(ii) This will include those employed within the HSC in domestic and support services.\n\n(iii) The award will be implemented as soon as is possible.\n\n(iv)The award is effective from 1 April 2019.","answerHtml":"(i) Pay parity with England will apply to all Bands.
(ii) This will include those employed within the HSC in domestic and support services.
(iii) The award will be implemented as soon as is possible.
(iv)The award is effective from 1 April 2019.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20297%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290995","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290995"}},{"id":"290994","reference":"AQW 296/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-15","answerBy":"2020-01-30","answered":"2020-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) whether the Party Leaders’ Forum, as agreed in New Decade, New Approach, will include party leaders and independents not currently represented in the Executive; and (ii) the reasoning behind their decision.","answerText":"New Decade, New Approach states that the Party Leaders Forum will be attended by the leaders, or their ‘permanent’ nominated representative, of the political parties in the Executive. The membership reflects its role in supporting the Executive, as also stated, by providing a safe space for party leaders to discuss ongoing issues and provide early warning of any issues which might cause future political tension and disagreements.","answerHtml":"New Decade, New Approach states that the Party Leaders Forum will be attended by the leaders, or their ‘permanent’ nominated representative, of the political parties in the Executive. The membership reflects its role in supporting the Executive, as also stated, by providing a safe space for party leaders to discuss ongoing issues and provide early warning of any issues which might cause future political tension and disagreements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20296%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290994"}},{"id":"290993","reference":"AQW 295/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-15","answerBy":"2020-01-30","answered":"2020-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has any plans to review the funding model for post-primary schools.","answerText":"The Education Transformation Programme includes a Review of the Common Funding Scheme (CFS) Project. The CFS covers all schools funded under Local Management of Schools arrangements, including post-primary schools.\n\nAs agreed in New Decade, New Approach, it is proposed that there will be an Independent Review of Education Provision. Consideration is now being given to the design and delivery of such a review, including the extent to which the Independent Review may incorporate the work of the Review of the CFS Project undertaken to date.","answerHtml":"The Education Transformation Programme includes a Review of the Common Funding Scheme (CFS) Project. The CFS covers all schools funded under Local Management of Schools arrangements, including post-primary schools.
As agreed in New Decade, New Approach, it is proposed that there will be an Independent Review of Education Provision. Consideration is now being given to the design and delivery of such a review, including the extent to which the Independent Review may incorporate the work of the Review of the CFS Project undertaken to date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20295%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290993","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290993"}},{"id":"290992","reference":"AQW 294/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-15","answerBy":"2020-01-30","answered":"2020-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister for the Economy","question":"To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail the impact on further education of post-primary schools offering more vocational subjects at sixth form.","answerText":"My Department is currently working with the Department of Education (DE) on the Transition of Young People into Careers Project which aims to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to education and training provision for 14 to 19 year olds. The development of a collaborative approach to post-16 education will provide an opportunity to clearly articulate the purpose of both Sixth Forms and FE colleges and to explore how they can complement each other in providing young people with the learning pathways which best meet their needs. Given the current budgetary pressures, I am keen to explore this unique opportunity to improve efficiency, quality, reduce duplication and improve outcomes for the learner.\n\nI recognise the importance of providing young people with the vocational skills needed to grow the Northern Ireland economy and my Department is currently investing £220 million in seven new capital projects across the further education sector to provide learners with access to modern industry-standard premises and state of the art facilities.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently working with the Department of Education (DE) on the Transition of Young People into Careers Project which aims to develop a more strategic and joined up approach to education and training provision for 14 to 19 year olds. The development of a collaborative approach to post-16 education will provide an opportunity to clearly articulate the purpose of both Sixth Forms and FE colleges and to explore how they can complement each other in providing young people with the learning pathways which best meet their needs. Given the current budgetary pressures, I am keen to explore this unique opportunity to improve efficiency, quality, reduce duplication and improve outcomes for the learner.
I recognise the importance of providing young people with the vocational skills needed to grow the Northern Ireland economy and my Department is currently investing £220 million in seven new capital projects across the further education sector to provide learners with access to modern industry-standard premises and state of the art facilities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20294%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290992"}},{"id":"290991","reference":"AQW 293/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-15","answerBy":"2020-01-30","answered":"2020-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline their plans to establish a ‘dedicated sub-committee which will consider the findings of the RHI inquiry and propose further reforms’ as agreed in New Decade, New Approach.","answerText":"The process for establishing the sub-committee will be considered and agreed in due course.","answerHtml":"The process for establishing the sub-committee will be considered and agreed in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20293%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290991"}},{"id":"290914","reference":"AQW 220/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-14","answerBy":"2020-01-29","answered":"2020-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the cost of addressing waiting lists to ensure the commitment in New Decade, New Approach of no one waiting over a year at 30 September 2019 for outpatient or inpatient assessment/treatment will still be on a waiting list by March 2021.","answerText":"The cost of delivering the additional activity necessary to ensure that no one waiting over a year at 30 September 2019 for an outpatient assessment or treatment will still be on a waiting list by March 2021 is approximately £50m.","answerHtml":"The cost of delivering the additional activity necessary to ensure that no one waiting over a year at 30 September 2019 for an outpatient assessment or treatment will still be on a waiting list by March 2021 is approximately £50m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20220%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290914","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290914"}},{"id":"290913","reference":"AQW 219/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-14","answerBy":"2020-01-29","answered":"2020-01-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health","question":"To ask the Minister of Health to outline the cost of ensuring pay parity for Northern Ireland with England in respect of health and social care staff to also support National Living Wage uplifts for financial year 2021/2022.","answerText":"The Agenda for Change Refresh agreement covered the three year period from April 2018 to March 2021. The values of pay scales for 2021-22 are not yet known, therefore it is not possible at present to outline either the cost of maintaining parity into 2021/22 or of National Living Wage uplifts.","answerHtml":"The Agenda for Change Refresh agreement covered the three year period from April 2018 to March 2021. The values of pay scales for 2021-22 are not yet known, therefore it is not possible at present to outline either the cost of maintaining parity into 2021/22 or of National Living Wage uplifts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20219%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290913","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290913"}},{"id":"290912","reference":"AQW 218/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-14","answerBy":"2020-01-29","answered":"2020-01-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) minor works applications submitted by (a) primary; and (b) post-primary schools in East Londonderry that have not received a decision on their application; and (ii) the length of time each school has waited for a decision since their submission.","answerText":"In October 2017 the Department of Education and the Education Authority issued a Joint Call for minor works. Over 6,000 applications were received which included 209 applications from primary schools in East Londonderry and 98 from post primary.\n\n33 applications from primary schools in East Londonderry and 15 from post primary have been approved to proceed or have been completed.\n\nA significant number of emergency or unavoidable minor work applications have been progressed outside the Joint Call.","answerHtml":"In October 2017 the Department of Education and the Education Authority issued a Joint Call for minor works. Over 6,000 applications were received which included 209 applications from primary schools in East Londonderry and 98 from post primary.
33 applications from primary schools in East Londonderry and 15 from post primary have been approved to proceed or have been completed.
A significant number of emergency or unavoidable minor work applications have been progressed outside the Joint Call.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20218%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290912","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290912"}},{"id":"290911","reference":"AQW 217/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-14","answerBy":"2020-01-29","answered":"2020-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) development proposals submitted by (a) primary; and (b) post-primary schools in East Londonderry that have not received a decision on their proposal; and (ii) the length of time each school has waited for a decision since their submission.","answerText":"There is one primary school in the East Londonderry constituency awaiting a decision on a Development Proposal (DP) and no post primary schools.\n\nDP 588 for the proposed closure of Ballyhackett Primary School was received on 3 September 2019. No decision has been made as the school has indicated it intends to bring forward a DP proposing its transformation to Controlled Integrated Status. The Department has agreed to await the submission of the Transformation proposal in order to make a fully informed decision on the future of this school.","answerHtml":"There is one primary school in the East Londonderry constituency awaiting a decision on a Development Proposal (DP) and no post primary schools.
DP 588 for the proposed closure of Ballyhackett Primary School was received on 3 September 2019. No decision has been made as the school has indicated it intends to bring forward a DP proposing its transformation to Controlled Integrated Status. The Department has agreed to await the submission of the Transformation proposal in order to make a fully informed decision on the future of this school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20217%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290911","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290911"}},{"id":"290910","reference":"AQW 216/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-14","answerBy":"2020-01-29","answered":"2020-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, further to his statement to the Assembly on 14 January 2020, to detail (i) whether he intends to announce further School Enhancement Projects this mandate and; (ii) the list of applications still awaiting decision.","answerText":"My statement to the Assembly on 14 January 2020 represented the third tranche of projects to be announced from the Second Call to the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). The prioritised lists from this call will remain live to May 2020 and there is therefore the potential for a further, final announcement before the lists expire. As part of the Department’s overall capital investment strategy, I will then consider if there should be a third call for applications to SEP.\n\nUnder the published protocol for the second SEP call (https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/school-enhancement-programme-second-call-protocol-selection), all applications were subject to Gateway checks. Those schools not filtered out as part of the Gateway process were scored and prioritised lists of projects produced for primary schools, post-primary schools and special schools. The schools remaining on these prioritised lists are set out below:\n\nPrimary Schools\n\nAbbey Primary School, Newtownards\nAcorn Integrated Primary School, Carrickfergus\nAshgrove Primary School, Glengormley\nBallykelly Primary School, Limavady\nBallymoney Controlled Integrated Primary School\nBunscoil An Iúir Newry\nCarr’s Glen Primary School, Belfast\nCedar Integrated Primary School, Crossgar\nChristian Brothers’ Primary School, Armagh\nClandeboye Primary School, Bangor\nCrumlin Controlled Integrated Primary School\nD H Christie Memorial Primary School, Coleraine\nDundela Primary School, Belfast\nGilnahirk Primary School, Belfast\nGrange Park Primary School, Bangor\nGreenisland Primary School\nGreenwood Primary School, Belfast\nHarmony Hill Primary School, Lisburn\nHart Memorial Primary School, Portadown\nHoly Trinity Primary School, Cookstown\nJones Memorial Primary School, Enniskillen\nKilbride Primary School, Doagh\nKilbroney Controlled Integrated Primary School, Rostrevor\nKircubbin Controlled Integrated Primary School\nLigoniel Primary School, Belfast\nLinn Primary School, Larne\nLough View Integrated Primary School, Belfast\nMarkethill Primary School\nMoneymore Primary School\nOakgrove Integrated Primary School, Londonderry\nOakwood Integrated Primary School, Dunmurry\nOmagh County Primary School\nOur Lady & St Patrick’s Primary School, Downpatrick\nRathmore Primary School, Bangor\nRound Tower Controlled Integrated Primary School, Antrim\nSeagoe Primary School, Portadown\nSpires Inetgrated Primary School, Magherafelt\nSt Aloysius’ Primary School & Nursery School, Lisburn\nSt Bernard's Primary School, Wynchurch Belfast\nSt Brigids Primary School, Magherafelt\nSt Comgall's Primary School, Antrim\nSt Finian's Primary School, Newtownards\nSt John's Primary School, Gilford\nSt Patrick's Primary School, Newry\nSt Peter's Primary School, Cookstown\nSt Ronan's Primary School, Lisnaskea\nStrandtown Primary School, Belfast\nTandragee Primary School\nWhitehead Primary School\n\nPost-Primary Schools\n\nAshfield Boys’ High School, Belfast\nAbbey Christian Brothers’ School, Newry\nAquinas Diocesan Grammar School, Belfast\nBallyclare High School\nBallyclare Secondary School\nBallymena Academy\nBallymoney High School\nBelfast Royal Academy\nCambridge House Grammar School, Ballymena\nCarrickfergus Grammar School\nClounagh Junior High School, Portadown\nCraigavon Senior High School, Portadown\nDalriada School, Ballymoney\nEdmund Rice College Newtownabbey\nFriends School, Lisburn\nHunterhouse Grammar School, Belfast\nLimavady Grammar School\nLimavady High School\nLoreto College Coleraine\nLumen Christi College Londonderry\nOur Lady's Grammar School, Newry\nRainey Endowed Magherafelt\nRegent House Grammar School, Newtownards\nSacred Heart Grammar School, Newry\nSt Brigid's College, Londonderry\nSt Catherine's College, Armagh\nSt Columb's College, Londonderry\nSt Michael’s Grammar School, Enniskillen\nSt Pius X College, Magherafelt\nThe Royal School, Armagh\nWallace High School, Lisburn\n\nSpecial Schools\n\nArvalee Special School, Omagh\nClifton Special School, Bangor\nHillcroft School, Newtownabbey\nWillowbridge Special School, Enniskillen","answerHtml":"My statement to the Assembly on 14 January 2020 represented the third tranche of projects to be announced from the Second Call to the School Enhancement Programme (SEP). The prioritised lists from this call will remain live to May 2020 and there is therefore the potential for a further, final announcement before the lists expire. As part of the Department’s overall capital investment strategy, I will then consider if there should be a third call for applications to SEP.
Under the published protocol for the second SEP call (https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/publications/school-enhancement-programme-second-call-protocol-selection), all applications were subject to Gateway checks. Those schools not filtered out as part of the Gateway process were scored and prioritised lists of projects produced for primary schools, post-primary schools and special schools. The schools remaining on these prioritised lists are set out below:
Primary Schools
| Abbey Primary School, Newtownards |
| Acorn Integrated Primary School, Carrickfergus |
| Ashgrove Primary School, Glengormley |
| Ballykelly Primary School, Limavady |
| Ballymoney Controlled Integrated Primary School |
| Bunscoil An Iúir Newry |
| Carr’s Glen Primary School, Belfast |
| Cedar Integrated Primary School, Crossgar |
| Christian Brothers’ Primary School, Armagh |
| Clandeboye Primary School, Bangor |
| Crumlin Controlled Integrated Primary School |
| D H Christie Memorial Primary School, Coleraine |
| Dundela Primary School, Belfast |
| Gilnahirk Primary School, Belfast |
| Grange Park Primary School, Bangor |
| Greenisland Primary School |
| Greenwood Primary School, Belfast |
| Harmony Hill Primary School, Lisburn |
| Hart Memorial Primary School, Portadown |
| Holy Trinity Primary School, Cookstown |
| Jones Memorial Primary School, Enniskillen |
| Kilbride Primary School, Doagh |
| Kilbroney Controlled Integrated Primary School, Rostrevor |
| Kircubbin Controlled Integrated Primary School |
| Ligoniel Primary School, Belfast |
| Linn Primary School, Larne |
| Lough View Integrated Primary School, Belfast |
| Markethill Primary School |
| Moneymore Primary School |
| Oakgrove Integrated Primary School, Londonderry |
| Oakwood Integrated Primary School, Dunmurry |
| Omagh County Primary School |
| Our Lady & St Patrick’s Primary School, Downpatrick |
| Rathmore Primary School, Bangor |
| Round Tower Controlled Integrated Primary School, Antrim |
| Seagoe Primary School, Portadown |
| Spires Inetgrated Primary School, Magherafelt |
| St Aloysius’ Primary School & Nursery School, Lisburn |
| St Bernard's Primary School, Wynchurch Belfast |
| St Brigids Primary School, Magherafelt |
| St Comgall's Primary School, Antrim |
| St Finian's Primary School, Newtownards |
| St John's Primary School, Gilford |
| St Patrick's Primary School, Newry |
| St Peter's Primary School, Cookstown |
| St Ronan's Primary School, Lisnaskea |
| Strandtown Primary School, Belfast |
| Tandragee Primary School |
| Whitehead Primary School |
Post-Primary Schools
| Ashfield Boys’ High School, Belfast |
| Abbey Christian Brothers’ School, Newry |
| Aquinas Diocesan Grammar School, Belfast |
| Ballyclare High School |
| Ballyclare Secondary School |
| Ballymena Academy |
| Ballymoney High School |
| Belfast Royal Academy |
| Cambridge House Grammar School, Ballymena |
| Carrickfergus Grammar School |
| Clounagh Junior High School, Portadown |
| Craigavon Senior High School, Portadown |
| Dalriada School, Ballymoney |
| Edmund Rice College Newtownabbey |
| Friends School, Lisburn |
| Hunterhouse Grammar School, Belfast |
| Limavady Grammar School |
| Limavady High School |
| Loreto College Coleraine |
| Lumen Christi College Londonderry |
| Our Lady's Grammar School, Newry |
| Rainey Endowed Magherafelt |
| Regent House Grammar School, Newtownards |
| Sacred Heart Grammar School, Newry |
| St Brigid's College, Londonderry |
| St Catherine's College, Armagh |
| St Columb's College, Londonderry |
| St Michael’s Grammar School, Enniskillen |
| St Pius X College, Magherafelt |
| The Royal School, Armagh |
| Wallace High School, Lisburn |
Special Schools
| Arvalee Special School, Omagh |
| Clifton Special School, Bangor |
| Hillcroft School, Newtownabbey |
| Willowbridge Special School, Enniskillen |
A new Code of Conduct for Special Advisers has been agreed by the Executive. The Code specifically states that Ministers are responsible for the management, conduct and discipline of Special Advisers.
Plans to clarify these responsibilities in the Ministerial Code of Conduct and associated documents will be considered by the Executive shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20193%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290842"}},{"id":"290841","reference":"AQW 192/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-13","answerBy":"2020-01-28","answered":"2020-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline (i) their approach in creating an Executive work programme; (ii) whether it will include specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely aims and objectives for each Department; and (iii) whether they intend to publish timeframes alongside the aims and objectives.","answerText":"The Executive Office is currently preparing information on matters which require early referral to the Executive Committee. In addition, we intend to convene a special meeting of the Executive Committee in the near future to discuss its priorities and the arrangements through which the Programme for Government and the commitments in the New Decade New Approach Agreement might most effectively be delivered.","answerHtml":"The Executive Office is currently preparing information on matters which require early referral to the Executive Committee. In addition, we intend to convene a special meeting of the Executive Committee in the near future to discuss its priorities and the arrangements through which the Programme for Government and the commitments in the New Decade New Approach Agreement might most effectively be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20192%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290841"}},{"id":"290840","reference":"AQW 191/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-13","answerBy":"2020-01-28","answered":"2020-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline (i) any discussions with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland regarding the enactment of legislation to fulfil the reforms agreed in New Decade, New Approach in relation to the Petition of Concern; and (ii) when these reforms are expected to take effect.","answerText":"Reform of the operation of the Petition of Concern and the need for any enactment of legislation for this purpose are in the first instance a matter for the Northern Ireland Assembly.","answerHtml":"Reform of the operation of the Petition of Concern and the need for any enactment of legislation for this purpose are in the first instance a matter for the Northern Ireland Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20191%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290840"}},{"id":"290839","reference":"AQW 190/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-13","answerBy":"2020-01-28","answered":"2020-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) when they expect to publish a first draft of the Programme for Government 2020 – 2022; (ii) whether they intend to publish an Executive work programme alongside the PfG; and (iii) how they plan to fulfil the aims and objectives within the PfG given the short time left in the current mandate.","answerText":"We are committed to establishing a strategic level, outcomes based Programme for Government (PfG) that delivers real and positive change in people’s lives. Determining a way forward will be a key early priority for the Executive and we expect soon to publish details of the Executive’s agreed approach to bringing forward a new and ambitious Programme.","answerHtml":"We are committed to establishing a strategic level, outcomes based Programme for Government (PfG) that delivers real and positive change in people’s lives. Determining a way forward will be a key early priority for the Executive and we expect soon to publish details of the Executive’s agreed approach to bringing forward a new and ambitious Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20190%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290839"}},{"id":"290838","reference":"AQW 189/17-22","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"17-22","tabled":"2020-01-13","answerBy":"2020-01-28","answered":"2020-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister if arrangements to strengthen the ability of parties in Opposition to hold the Executive to account, as agreed in the New Decade, New Approach, requires legislation; and when the relevant policy and/or legislation will be introduced to uphold this commitment.","answerText":"Any arrangements, including amendment of the Assembly and Executive Reform (Assembly Opposition) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, are in the first instance a matter for consideration by the Assembly.","answerHtml":"Any arrangements, including amendment of the Assembly and Executive Reform (Assembly Opposition) Act (Northern Ireland) 2016, are in the first instance a matter for consideration by the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%20189%2F17-22","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=290838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=290838"}},{"id":"263723","reference":"AQW 55546/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-15","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail his Department’s current policy on home to school transport; and whether he has plans to review the policy.","answerText":"The current home to school transport policy is detailed in my Department’s circular number 1996/41 and a copy of this circular can be found on my Department’s website (https://www.deni.gov.uk/publications/circular-199641-home-school-transport).\n\nAn independent review of this policy has been completed however it will be for the next Minister for Education to consider if it is appropriate to revise the current policy in light of this review.","answerHtml":"The current home to school transport policy is detailed in my Department’s circular number 1996/41 and a copy of this circular can be found on my Department’s website (https://www.deni.gov.uk/publications/circular-199641-home-school-transport).
An independent review of this policy has been completed however it will be for the next Minister for Education to consider if it is appropriate to revise the current policy in light of this review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055546%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263723"}},{"id":"263722","reference":"AQW 55545/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-15","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) how much funding his Department has provided to Women’s Aid centres in each of the last five years; (ii) how much funding he has committed to Women’s Aid for 2016-17; and (iii) any discussions he has had with Women’s Aid regarding future funding.","answerText":"(i) The table below lists the Supporting People funding provided to Women’s Aid providers (for accommodation and floating support services) for the past five years.\n\n2015-16 (£m)\t2014-15 (£m)\t2013-14 (£m)\t2012-13 (£m)\t2011-12 (£m)\nAccommodation-based\t2.75\t2.70\t2.60\t2.77\t2.72\nFloating Support\t1.94\t1.91\t1.75\t1.38\t1.18\nTotal\t4.69\t4.61\t4.35\t4.15\t3.90\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.\n\n(ii) The Supporting People funding position for 2016/17 has recently been agreed. During a time when public finances are under strain and despite having to find significant savings across my Department, Supporting People funding has been protected at 2015/16 levels.\n\n(iii) I have not had any direct discussions with Women’s Aid on funding for 2016/17 or future years. Officials from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will confirm the individual funding positions for 2016/17 with all providers, including Women’s Aid, in due course.","answerHtml":"(i) The table below lists the Supporting People funding provided to Women’s Aid providers (for accommodation and floating support services) for the past five years.
| 2015-16 (£m) | 2014-15 (£m) | 2013-14 (£m) | 2012-13 (£m) | 2011-12 (£m) | |
| Accommodation-based | 2.75 | 2.70 | 2.60 | 2.77 | 2.72 |
| Floating Support | 1.94 | 1.91 | 1.75 | 1.38 | 1.18 |
| Total | 4.69 | 4.61 | 4.35 | 4.15 | 3.90 |
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
(ii) The Supporting People funding position for 2016/17 has recently been agreed. During a time when public finances are under strain and despite having to find significant savings across my Department, Supporting People funding has been protected at 2015/16 levels.
(iii) I have not had any direct discussions with Women’s Aid on funding for 2016/17 or future years. Officials from the Northern Ireland Housing Executive will confirm the individual funding positions for 2016/17 with all providers, including Women’s Aid, in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055545%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263722","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263722"}},{"id":"263721","reference":"AQW 55544/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-15","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether he will increase the number of homes targeted by the Affordable Warmth scheme.","answerText":"The number of homes which can be assisted by the Affordable Warmth Scheme depends on the budget available and the average amount spent on improving the energy efficiency of the home. The average spend per household in 2015/2016 was £3,900 (an increase from the £1,440 average spend under the former Warm Homes Scheme) and resulted in the delivery of multiple energy efficiency improvements including roof space and cavity wall insulation, new heating systems and replacement windows.\n\nIn 2016/17 it is anticipated that the Affordable Warmth Scheme will deliver at least 6,000 measures to 4,000 vulnerable households. The Affordable Warmth Scheme uses a targeted area based approach to identify vulnerable households most at risk of fuel poverty and encourage them to take advantage of the measures available.\n\nMy Department will continue to monitor demand for the scheme and keep the budget under review.","answerHtml":"The number of homes which can be assisted by the Affordable Warmth Scheme depends on the budget available and the average amount spent on improving the energy efficiency of the home. The average spend per household in 2015/2016 was £3,900 (an increase from the £1,440 average spend under the former Warm Homes Scheme) and resulted in the delivery of multiple energy efficiency improvements including roof space and cavity wall insulation, new heating systems and replacement windows.
In 2016/17 it is anticipated that the Affordable Warmth Scheme will deliver at least 6,000 measures to 4,000 vulnerable households. The Affordable Warmth Scheme uses a targeted area based approach to identify vulnerable households most at risk of fuel poverty and encourage them to take advantage of the measures available.
My Department will continue to monitor demand for the scheme and keep the budget under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055544%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263721","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263721"}},{"id":"263720","reference":"AQW 55543/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-15","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how his Department reaches homes that are experiencing fuel poverty but lie outside the main fuel poverty concentrations in local council areas.","answerText":"My Department has a range of schemes and programmes which improve the energy efficiency of low income households in Northern Ireland. The Housing Executive delivers a programme of heating and insulation improvement for its housing stock. Housing Associations also deliver energy efficiency improvements to their stock. The Boiler Replacement Scheme offers grants to privately owned households to replace old and inefficient boilers.\n\nThe Affordable Warmth Scheme finds privately owned and privately rented households most at risk of fuel poverty and provides them with a range of energy efficiency improvement measures. While the Affordable Warmth Scheme is primarily a targeted scheme, households not in the targeted areas who believe they meet the qualification criteria can contact their local council to determine if they can get assistance from the scheme.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) also provides grants for energy efficiency improvement to households that do not meet the qualification criteria for other Government schemes.","answerHtml":"My Department has a range of schemes and programmes which improve the energy efficiency of low income households in Northern Ireland. The Housing Executive delivers a programme of heating and insulation improvement for its housing stock. Housing Associations also deliver energy efficiency improvements to their stock. The Boiler Replacement Scheme offers grants to privately owned households to replace old and inefficient boilers.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme finds privately owned and privately rented households most at risk of fuel poverty and provides them with a range of energy efficiency improvement measures. While the Affordable Warmth Scheme is primarily a targeted scheme, households not in the targeted areas who believe they meet the qualification criteria can contact their local council to determine if they can get assistance from the scheme.
The Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme (NISEP) also provides grants for energy efficiency improvement to households that do not meet the qualification criteria for other Government schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055543%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263720"}},{"id":"263573","reference":"AQW 55520/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-14","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment , pursuant to AQW 55136/11-16, to detail how his Department communicated with individual taxi drivers and operators to advise them of the new taximeter requirements.","answerText":"My Department issued a taxi driver communication bulletin to all industry stakeholders for whom they held email addresses and hard copies of the bulletin were posted to all taxi drivers in February 2016.","answerHtml":"My Department issued a taxi driver communication bulletin to all industry stakeholders for whom they held email addresses and hard copies of the bulletin were posted to all taxi drivers in February 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055520%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263573","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263573"}},{"id":"263572","reference":"AQW 55519/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-14","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment , pursuant to AQW 54627/11-16, to detail the number of times his Department’s Ministerial Planning Group have met since the transfer of planning functions to local government.","answerText":"As I advised previously, my Department supports councils through various engagement groups, one of which is the Ministerial Planning Group, which I chair. This group has met on two occasions since the transfer of planning to local government in April 2015. The inaugural meeting was held on 14th December 2015 and the group met again for a second time on 8th March 2016.\n\nThese meetings have been extremely useful in bringing central and local government together to discuss and drive forward continuous improvement and best practice in planning and I would hope that this collaborative and constructive engagement continues into the future.","answerHtml":"As I advised previously, my Department supports councils through various engagement groups, one of which is the Ministerial Planning Group, which I chair. This group has met on two occasions since the transfer of planning to local government in April 2015. The inaugural meeting was held on 14th December 2015 and the group met again for a second time on 8th March 2016.
These meetings have been extremely useful in bringing central and local government together to discuss and drive forward continuous improvement and best practice in planning and I would hope that this collaborative and constructive engagement continues into the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055519%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263572","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263572"}},{"id":"263571","reference":"AQW 55518/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-14","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety , pursuant to AQW 54527/11-16, for his assessment of the impact that proposed changes to variable crewing arrangements at Coleraine Fire and Rescue Station will have on their ability to meet Retained Duty System availability targets.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service proposals for changes to crewing arrangements at 11 fire stations including Coleraine were out for Public Consultation between 14 December 2015 and 7 March 2016.\n\nIt is the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service view that the proposals if implemented will rebalance resources appropriately and proportionately to address the level of risk across Northern Ireland . The continued safety of the public and of firefighters remains a priority.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service proposals for changes to crewing arrangements at 11 fire stations including Coleraine were out for Public Consultation between 14 December 2015 and 7 March 2016.
It is the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service view that the proposals if implemented will rebalance resources appropriately and proportionately to address the level of risk across Northern Ireland . The continued safety of the public and of firefighters remains a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055518%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263571"}},{"id":"263549","reference":"AQW 55496/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-14","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department is working with Further and Higher Education institutions in East Londonderry to match training and skills development with the needs of the local economy.","answerText":"Matching the training and skills development with the needs of the local economy is crucial to ensuring a strong and vibrant economy in Northern Ireland and my Department is committed to providing support to employers and ensuring that employers’ skills needs are met and continue to be met in a growing economy.\n\nWithin the new Further Education Strategy, “Further Education Means Success”, the economic development theme highlights the clear role the further education colleges play in identifying and meeting the skills and qualification needs of employers via a more economically focused curriculum, providing direct support to employers by upskilling employees, and supporting employers to become more competitive and innovative.\n\nIn implementing the strategy, colleges will play an enhanced role in working more strategically with employers and other key stakeholders to design and develop qualifications and curriculum that meet the current and future needs of employers and the economy. There will be a focus on provision to support strategically important areas of the economy, many of which are export driven, especially at level 3 and above.\n\nThe colleges will also continue to provide programmes and tailored solutions, such as Skills Focus and InnovateUs, to upskill employees and meet the specific skills needs of employers, and to support employers to become more competitive, to innovate and to source new markets.\n\nMy Department’s Higher Education Strategy, “Graduating to Success”, recognises the need to rebalance the profile of course provision so that it more closely reflects the needs of Northern Ireland’s economy, and this is as true in East Londonderry as it is across Northern Ireland.\n\nNorthern Ireland’s Skills Barometer, which is the result of work that Ulster University’s Economic Policy Centre has taken forward with my Department, indicates that skills shortages are particularly acute in certain subject areas, such as Engineering and Technology, Mathematics and Computer Science, Physical and Environmental Sciences and other private sector-driven subjects such as Business and Finance and Creative Arts and Design.\n\nBoth universities and all six further education colleges have well-developed mechanisms for engaging with local employers to ensure that the courses being developed meet their needs. The use of foundation degrees and an increasing focus on higher level apprenticeships across the HE and FE sectors, which include periods of work placement at their core, will also ensure that employers will be able to rely on a steady supply of work-ready graduates across a range of qualification levels in economically relevant areas.\n\nWe are also now seeing more enrolments in economically key Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths disciplines. In 2014/15, 22% of graduates were in STEM disciplines, up from 18% in 2008.\n\nIn addition, I personally chair three working groups representing key priority sectors. These are the Food and Drink Industry Working Group, the Information and Communications Technology Working Group and the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group. The membership of these groups includes employers, further and higher education representatives, officials and others with relevant interests. These provide a valuable forum through which employers can articulate their skills needs and interact directly with service and programme providers.\n\nMy Department will continue to work with the further and higher education sectors and with industry to ensure that further and higher education provision will meet both the needs of industry and the people of Northern Ireland, including East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"Matching the training and skills development with the needs of the local economy is crucial to ensuring a strong and vibrant economy in Northern Ireland and my Department is committed to providing support to employers and ensuring that employers’ skills needs are met and continue to be met in a growing economy.
Within the new Further Education Strategy, “Further Education Means Success”, the economic development theme highlights the clear role the further education colleges play in identifying and meeting the skills and qualification needs of employers via a more economically focused curriculum, providing direct support to employers by upskilling employees, and supporting employers to become more competitive and innovative.
In implementing the strategy, colleges will play an enhanced role in working more strategically with employers and other key stakeholders to design and develop qualifications and curriculum that meet the current and future needs of employers and the economy. There will be a focus on provision to support strategically important areas of the economy, many of which are export driven, especially at level 3 and above.
The colleges will also continue to provide programmes and tailored solutions, such as Skills Focus and InnovateUs, to upskill employees and meet the specific skills needs of employers, and to support employers to become more competitive, to innovate and to source new markets.
My Department’s Higher Education Strategy, “Graduating to Success”, recognises the need to rebalance the profile of course provision so that it more closely reflects the needs of Northern Ireland’s economy, and this is as true in East Londonderry as it is across Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland’s Skills Barometer, which is the result of work that Ulster University’s Economic Policy Centre has taken forward with my Department, indicates that skills shortages are particularly acute in certain subject areas, such as Engineering and Technology, Mathematics and Computer Science, Physical and Environmental Sciences and other private sector-driven subjects such as Business and Finance and Creative Arts and Design.
Both universities and all six further education colleges have well-developed mechanisms for engaging with local employers to ensure that the courses being developed meet their needs. The use of foundation degrees and an increasing focus on higher level apprenticeships across the HE and FE sectors, which include periods of work placement at their core, will also ensure that employers will be able to rely on a steady supply of work-ready graduates across a range of qualification levels in economically relevant areas.
We are also now seeing more enrolments in economically key Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths disciplines. In 2014/15, 22% of graduates were in STEM disciplines, up from 18% in 2008.
In addition, I personally chair three working groups representing key priority sectors. These are the Food and Drink Industry Working Group, the Information and Communications Technology Working Group and the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group. The membership of these groups includes employers, further and higher education representatives, officials and others with relevant interests. These provide a valuable forum through which employers can articulate their skills needs and interact directly with service and programme providers.
My Department will continue to work with the further and higher education sectors and with industry to ensure that further and higher education provision will meet both the needs of industry and the people of Northern Ireland, including East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055496%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263549","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263549"}},{"id":"263429","reference":"AQW 55487/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-11","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is encouraging entrepreneurialism among young females in (i) further; and (ii) higher education.","answerText":"Fostering an entrepreneurial mindset amongst all learners across our education system is a key part of supporting the growth of our economy, and consequently my Department has undertaken a range of work to develop this important area.\n\nDeveloping teaching staff in order to consequently help support the growth of entrepreneurialism in their learners is a main priority. In further education, research undertaken jointly by Fingerprint Learning Ltd and Stranmillis University College into learning preferences in 2010/11 indicated that entrepreneurs tend to have distinctive learning styles. The research was subsequently built into the Certificate in Teaching (CIT) for tutors in the training sector in 2014/15, with the result that all newly qualified tutors will benefit from this approach. The research results have also been incorporated into teacher training courses, including the CIT, for lecturers in further education from September 2015.\n\nThis approach will be developed further through the delivery of policy commitment 9 in the new Further Education Strategy Further Education Means Success: “Developing Employability and Enterprise Skills”. Through their teaching strategies and approaches, colleges will seek to develop enterprising learners, who are innovative and creative, and are able to adapt to change.\n\nIn higher education, my Department’s Higher Education Strategy, Graduating to Success, recognises the need to rebalance the profile of course provision so that it more closely reflects the needs of the economy. Curriculum and course content are the responsibility of individual institutions, and they work with a range of employers, through formal groups, to support the development of graduates with the skills needed in our economy, including the attitudes and behaviours that underpin an entrepreneurial approach. We have also worked with the higher education sector to encourage more female enrolments in economically key STEM disciplines, which traditionally enrol a higher proportion of male than female students.\n\nThis issue has been examined further through the STEM Strategy for Northern Ireland, Success through STEM, which included 20 recommendations for government and business to secure and enhance the supply of STEM skills. Addressing the gender imbalance was one of the five recommendations identified for business to lead on. A STEM business subgroup was established to take forward the five recommendations for business. In 2012, the Department funded a STEM business coordinator to support the subgroup’s work and, since then, significant progress has been made. In June 2013, the Subgroup produced a draft report entitled ‘Addressing Gender Balance –Reaping the Gender Dividend in STEM’, with the final report being launched in November 2013.\n\nThe importance of entrepreneurialism in leadership and management is likely to be a key theme as we go forward. It is recognised that skills in this area will be important to achieve the aims of the economic strategy. In June 2014, the STEM business subgroup, DEL, and the Equality Commission launched the STEM CEO Charter, which enables STEM organisations to demonstrate their commitment to equal opportunity for women in their employment. Twenty organisations committed to the Charter on the day of the launch and, to date, 37 companies have signed up.\n\nFinally, giving the right advice and guidance to prospective learners is extremely important, and my Department's careers service offers impartial careers advice on an all age basis. While the higher education institutions and further education colleges provide careers support to their students, young people can also avail of the careers service either through a face-to-face interview or through web-chat. In addition, the careers website on NI Direct includes information on how to start up a business, including the potential benefits and challenges, and a self-employment checklist. It also provides useful links to other sources of help including Enterprise NI, Shell Livewire, and the Prince's Trust.","answerHtml":"Fostering an entrepreneurial mindset amongst all learners across our education system is a key part of supporting the growth of our economy, and consequently my Department has undertaken a range of work to develop this important area.
Developing teaching staff in order to consequently help support the growth of entrepreneurialism in their learners is a main priority. In further education, research undertaken jointly by Fingerprint Learning Ltd and Stranmillis University College into learning preferences in 2010/11 indicated that entrepreneurs tend to have distinctive learning styles. The research was subsequently built into the Certificate in Teaching (CIT) for tutors in the training sector in 2014/15, with the result that all newly qualified tutors will benefit from this approach. The research results have also been incorporated into teacher training courses, including the CIT, for lecturers in further education from September 2015.
This approach will be developed further through the delivery of policy commitment 9 in the new Further Education Strategy Further Education Means Success: “Developing Employability and Enterprise Skills”. Through their teaching strategies and approaches, colleges will seek to develop enterprising learners, who are innovative and creative, and are able to adapt to change.
In higher education, my Department’s Higher Education Strategy, Graduating to Success, recognises the need to rebalance the profile of course provision so that it more closely reflects the needs of the economy. Curriculum and course content are the responsibility of individual institutions, and they work with a range of employers, through formal groups, to support the development of graduates with the skills needed in our economy, including the attitudes and behaviours that underpin an entrepreneurial approach. We have also worked with the higher education sector to encourage more female enrolments in economically key STEM disciplines, which traditionally enrol a higher proportion of male than female students.
This issue has been examined further through the STEM Strategy for Northern Ireland, Success through STEM, which included 20 recommendations for government and business to secure and enhance the supply of STEM skills. Addressing the gender imbalance was one of the five recommendations identified for business to lead on. A STEM business subgroup was established to take forward the five recommendations for business. In 2012, the Department funded a STEM business coordinator to support the subgroup’s work and, since then, significant progress has been made. In June 2013, the Subgroup produced a draft report entitled ‘Addressing Gender Balance –Reaping the Gender Dividend in STEM’, with the final report being launched in November 2013.
The importance of entrepreneurialism in leadership and management is likely to be a key theme as we go forward. It is recognised that skills in this area will be important to achieve the aims of the economic strategy. In June 2014, the STEM business subgroup, DEL, and the Equality Commission launched the STEM CEO Charter, which enables STEM organisations to demonstrate their commitment to equal opportunity for women in their employment. Twenty organisations committed to the Charter on the day of the launch and, to date, 37 companies have signed up.
Finally, giving the right advice and guidance to prospective learners is extremely important, and my Department's careers service offers impartial careers advice on an all age basis. While the higher education institutions and further education colleges provide careers support to their students, young people can also avail of the careers service either through a face-to-face interview or through web-chat. In addition, the careers website on NI Direct includes information on how to start up a business, including the potential benefits and challenges, and a self-employment checklist. It also provides useful links to other sources of help including Enterprise NI, Shell Livewire, and the Prince's Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055487%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263429"}},{"id":"263323","reference":"AQW 55418/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-10","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he will be in a position to make an announcement on the future of the Lifeline service.","answerText":"I am still considering the options for the new model of the Lifeline service and will make an announcement shortly.","answerHtml":"I am still considering the options for the new model of the Lifeline service and will make an announcement shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055418%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263323","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263323"}},{"id":"263322","reference":"AQW 55417/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-10","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the independent advocacy services his Department funds.","answerText":"My Department provides revenue funding to Voice of Children and Young People in Care (VOYPIC), which provides a regional advocacy service for children and young people in care or who are care-experienced, to help them find out about their rights, enable them to make choices about the services they are entitled to receive, and to be fully involved in the decisions that affect their lives.\n\nIn 2015/16, the revenue grant to VOYPIC was £54,905.","answerHtml":"My Department provides revenue funding to Voice of Children and Young People in Care (VOYPIC), which provides a regional advocacy service for children and young people in care or who are care-experienced, to help them find out about their rights, enable them to make choices about the services they are entitled to receive, and to be fully involved in the decisions that affect their lives.
In 2015/16, the revenue grant to VOYPIC was £54,905.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055417%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263322","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263322"}},{"id":"263321","reference":"AQW 55416/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-10","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail his Department’s policy on direct payments for the care of (i) children; and (ii) adults.","answerText":"Policy covering access and administration of direct payments for the care of all individuals is articulated in overarching guidance issued to the Health and Social Care Board and Trusts; accessible via the following link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf","answerHtml":"Policy covering access and administration of direct payments for the care of all individuals is articulated in overarching guidance issued to the Health and Social Care Board and Trusts; accessible via the following link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055416%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263321","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263321"}},{"id":"263320","reference":"AQW 55415/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-10","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the receipt of direct payments in the (i) Northern and (ii) Western Heath and Social Care Trusts; and to detail the proportion of direct payments that have not been awarded within the target timeframe.","answerText":"Guidance covering the provision and receipt of direct payments for all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust areas can be accessed via the following link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf\n\nThe Northern and Western HSC Trusts have confirmed that they are not aware of any problems or delays with regard to the provision of direct payments in their areas.\n\nThere is no target timeframe for the provision of a direct payment; if an individual requests a direct payment and the HSC Trust is content that the assessed eligible needs can be met via the provision of a direct payment, the payment is approved and issued as soon as all conditions of the agreed arrangement have been met.","answerHtml":"Guidance covering the provision and receipt of direct payments for all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust areas can be accessed via the following link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf
The Northern and Western HSC Trusts have confirmed that they are not aware of any problems or delays with regard to the provision of direct payments in their areas.
There is no target timeframe for the provision of a direct payment; if an individual requests a direct payment and the HSC Trust is content that the assessed eligible needs can be met via the provision of a direct payment, the payment is approved and issued as soon as all conditions of the agreed arrangement have been met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055415%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263320","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263320"}},{"id":"263316","reference":"AQW 55411/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-10","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice when he will publish the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy.","answerText":"On 15 March I published the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy jointly with the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety following Executive approval.\n\nA copy of the Strategy together with a young people’s version can be accessed on my Department’s website at the following addresses:\n\nhttps://www.dojni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/doj/stopping-domestic-sexual-violence-ni.pdf\n\nhttps://www.dojni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/doj/young-persons-version.pdf","answerHtml":"On 15 March I published the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy jointly with the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety following Executive approval.
A copy of the Strategy together with a young people’s version can be accessed on my Department’s website at the following addresses:
https://www.dojni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/doj/stopping-domestic-sexual-violence-ni.pdf
https://www.dojni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/doj/young-persons-version.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055411%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263316","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263316"}},{"id":"263112","reference":"AQW 55370/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-09","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 52846/11-16, for an update on the recruitment of a Consultant Physician in care of the elderly at the Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"The Northern Trust re-advertised in February 2016, without success. A locum consultant with competence in Care of the Elderly remains in place.","answerHtml":"The Northern Trust re-advertised in February 2016, without success. A locum consultant with competence in Care of the Elderly remains in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055370%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263112"}},{"id":"263111","reference":"AQW 55369/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-09","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) how; and (ii) when the £27m funding from his Department will be spent on the regeneration of Portrush.","answerText":"The proposed programme of regeneration activities is broken into two categories and is still subject to funding being approved. The plan sets out the £17 million of regeneration activities that could be completed prior to the Open Championship arriving in 2019 and the £10 million of works relating to the redevelopment of the harbour area in 2020/21. The projects set out in the Portrush regeneration programme include:\n\nThe redevelopment of the Train Station\n\nA major public realm scheme for the town centre\n\nThe redevelopment of the harbour\n\nImplementation of key regeneration initiatives in the Portrush regeneration strategy\n\nImprovements to parking and transportation\n\nUrban Development Grant and Revitalisation programmes.\n\nDSD has agreed to commit funding of £0.5 million from its 2016/17 capital budget to take forward some design work on the new train station and public realm projects. These projects are time critical and this work is essential if the capital build elements are to be completed before the Open Championship in 2019.","answerHtml":"The proposed programme of regeneration activities is broken into two categories and is still subject to funding being approved. The plan sets out the £17 million of regeneration activities that could be completed prior to the Open Championship arriving in 2019 and the £10 million of works relating to the redevelopment of the harbour area in 2020/21. The projects set out in the Portrush regeneration programme include:
The redevelopment of the Train Station
A major public realm scheme for the town centre
The redevelopment of the harbour
Implementation of key regeneration initiatives in the Portrush regeneration strategy
Improvements to parking and transportation
Urban Development Grant and Revitalisation programmes.
DSD has agreed to commit funding of £0.5 million from its 2016/17 capital budget to take forward some design work on the new train station and public realm projects. These projects are time critical and this work is essential if the capital build elements are to be completed before the Open Championship in 2019.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055369%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263111"}},{"id":"263110","reference":"AQW 55368/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-09","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail how he will consult with local stakeholders, including businesses and community groups, to consider local views on how the £27m from his Department should be spent in regards to the regeneration of Portrush.","answerText":"The Portrush regeneration strategy published by Coleraine Borough Council in 2007 set out the strategic direction for the regeneration of Portrush for the next 15-20 years. It also identified the projects that would help deliver this strategy. As these projects are delivered there will be full public consultation on each individual project.\n\nIn addition to this my Officials are currently working with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to establish a Portrush regeneration consultative group. It is envisaged that this group will represent a wide range of interests from the Portrush area and will be responsible for engaging with and consulting the wider Portrush community on key regeneration initiatives being taken forward.","answerHtml":"The Portrush regeneration strategy published by Coleraine Borough Council in 2007 set out the strategic direction for the regeneration of Portrush for the next 15-20 years. It also identified the projects that would help deliver this strategy. As these projects are delivered there will be full public consultation on each individual project.
In addition to this my Officials are currently working with Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council to establish a Portrush regeneration consultative group. It is envisaged that this group will represent a wide range of interests from the Portrush area and will be responsible for engaging with and consulting the wider Portrush community on key regeneration initiatives being taken forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055368%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263110"}},{"id":"263109","reference":"AQW 55367/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-09","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail (i) any conversations he has had with the Secretary of State regarding the Enterprise Zone at Coleraine and (ii) when an announcement can be expected.","answerText":"I have not had any talks with the Secretary of State regarding the pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine.\n\nThe pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer Enhanced Capital Allowances as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering Enhanced Capital Allowances is ultimately for HM Treasury. HM Treasury is currently considering a request for formal designation of a pilot Enterprise Zone in the Coleraine area and it is expected that designation will be confirmed in the near future.","answerHtml":"I have not had any talks with the Secretary of State regarding the pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine.
The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer Enhanced Capital Allowances as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering Enhanced Capital Allowances is ultimately for HM Treasury. HM Treasury is currently considering a request for formal designation of a pilot Enterprise Zone in the Coleraine area and it is expected that designation will be confirmed in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055367%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263109"}},{"id":"263072","reference":"AQW 55330/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-09","answerBy":"2016-03-25","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the need for a new build at HMP Magilligan; and what conversations he has had with the Minister of Finance and Personnel regarding capital funding availability for a new build.","answerText":"I consider the construction of a new prison at Magilligan essential to enable NIPS to deliver the requisite programmes to address re-offending behaviour; to meet Disability Discrimination Act standards; and to replace the existing infrastructure, which has outlived its useful life and is expensive and inefficient to staff, maintain and operate.\n\nAn outline business case for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Prison was approved by the Department of Finance and Personnel in January 2015.\n\nI met with the then Finance Minister, Simon Hamilton, in April 2015 to emphasise the importance of securing funding for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project. However Mr Hamilton was unable to give any commitment to funding until longer term capital budgets have been agreed by the Executive.","answerHtml":"I consider the construction of a new prison at Magilligan essential to enable NIPS to deliver the requisite programmes to address re-offending behaviour; to meet Disability Discrimination Act standards; and to replace the existing infrastructure, which has outlived its useful life and is expensive and inefficient to staff, maintain and operate.
An outline business case for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Prison was approved by the Department of Finance and Personnel in January 2015.
I met with the then Finance Minister, Simon Hamilton, in April 2015 to emphasise the importance of securing funding for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project. However Mr Hamilton was unable to give any commitment to funding until longer term capital budgets have been agreed by the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055330%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=263072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=263072"}},{"id":"262907","reference":"AQW 55289/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-08","answerBy":"2016-03-24","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the impact reducing nursery and pre-school hours for children with learning disabilities will have on access to (i) occupational therapy; (ii) physiotherapy; (iii) speech and language therapy; (iv) cognitive and behavioural development; and (v) skills development.","answerText":"As the member is aware, I have instructed the EA to formally revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision in special schools. Before reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, all such matters you have raised need to be fully assessed.","answerHtml":"As the member is aware, I have instructed the EA to formally revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision in special schools. Before reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, all such matters you have raised need to be fully assessed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055289%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262907"}},{"id":"262901","reference":"AQW 55283/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-08","answerBy":"2016-03-24","answered":"2016-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what public consultation was carried out by his Department prior to the decision to reduce hours for nursery and pre-school children with special educational needs.","answerText":"Statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with special educational needs (SEN) rests with schools and the Education Authority (EA), which is responsible for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN. As such, it would be a matter for the EA to communicate and consult with those stakeholders affected by its decision regarding pre-school provision for children in special schools.\n\nGiven the current level of concerns and what I consider to be a lack of proper consultation by the Authority with parents and schools on this matter, I have instructed the EA to formally revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision in special schools.\n\nBefore reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, I have called on the EA to provide me with assurances that there has been full and open engagement with those most directly affected by any decision on pre-school provision in special schools and that they have been listened to.\n\nI have also emphasised that the overriding consideration must be how best to meet the needs of the children who will be accessing that provision.","answerHtml":"Statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with special educational needs (SEN) rests with schools and the Education Authority (EA), which is responsible for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN. As such, it would be a matter for the EA to communicate and consult with those stakeholders affected by its decision regarding pre-school provision for children in special schools.
Given the current level of concerns and what I consider to be a lack of proper consultation by the Authority with parents and schools on this matter, I have instructed the EA to formally revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision in special schools.
Before reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, I have called on the EA to provide me with assurances that there has been full and open engagement with those most directly affected by any decision on pre-school provision in special schools and that they have been listened to.
I have also emphasised that the overriding consideration must be how best to meet the needs of the children who will be accessing that provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055283%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262901"}},{"id":"262900","reference":"AQW 55282/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-08","answerBy":"2016-03-24","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) when the final decision was made to reduce hours for nursery and pre-school children with special educational needs; and (ii) whether each of the 39 special education schools in Northern Ireland were notified of the final decision.","answerText":"In June 2015, the Education Authority agreed to move to a consistent provision of part time pre-school places for all special schools from September 2016. At that time, part time provision was already in place in 15 of the 29 special schools offering pre-school places. Special school principals were informed of the decision in October 2015.\n\nGiven the current level of concerns and what I consider to be a lack of proper consultation by the Authority with parents and schools on this matter, I have instructed the EA to undertake a review before making a final decision on pre-school provision in special schools.","answerHtml":"In June 2015, the Education Authority agreed to move to a consistent provision of part time pre-school places for all special schools from September 2016. At that time, part time provision was already in place in 15 of the 29 special schools offering pre-school places. Special school principals were informed of the decision in October 2015.
Given the current level of concerns and what I consider to be a lack of proper consultation by the Authority with parents and schools on this matter, I have instructed the EA to undertake a review before making a final decision on pre-school provision in special schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055282%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262900"}},{"id":"262899","reference":"AQW 55281/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-08","answerBy":"2016-03-24","answered":"2016-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail what communication his Department had with the 39 special schools in Northern Ireland regarding the reduction in hours for nursery and pre-school children with special educational needs.","answerText":"Statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with special educational needs (SEN) rests with schools and the Education Authority (EA), which is responsible for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN. As such, it would be a matter for the EA to communicate and consult with those stakeholders affected by its decision regarding pre-school provision for children in special schools.\n\nGiven the current level of concerns and what I consider to be a lack of proper consultation by the Authority with parents and schools on this matter, I have instructed the EA to formally revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision in special schools.\n\nBefore reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, I have called on the EA to provide me with assurances that there has been full and open engagement with those most directly affected by any decision on pre-school provision in special schools and that they have been listened to.\n\nI have also emphasised that the overriding consideration must be how best to meet the needs of the children who will be accessing that provision.","answerHtml":"Statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with special educational needs (SEN) rests with schools and the Education Authority (EA), which is responsible for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN. As such, it would be a matter for the EA to communicate and consult with those stakeholders affected by its decision regarding pre-school provision for children in special schools.
Given the current level of concerns and what I consider to be a lack of proper consultation by the Authority with parents and schools on this matter, I have instructed the EA to formally revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision in special schools.
Before reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, I have called on the EA to provide me with assurances that there has been full and open engagement with those most directly affected by any decision on pre-school provision in special schools and that they have been listened to.
I have also emphasised that the overriding consideration must be how best to meet the needs of the children who will be accessing that provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055281%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262899","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262899"}},{"id":"262898","reference":"AQW 55280/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-08","answerBy":"2016-03-24","answered":"2016-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the rationale for reducing nursery and pre-school provision for children in special education schools.","answerText":"I have asked the Education Authority to urgently revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision for children placed in special schools.\n\nBefore reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, I have called on the EA to provide me with assurances that there has been full and open engagement with those most directly affected by any decision on pre-school provision in special schools and that they have been listened to. I have also emphasised that the overriding consideration must be how best to meet the needs of the children who will be accessing that provision.","answerHtml":"I have asked the Education Authority to urgently revisit its decision regarding pre-school provision for children placed in special schools.
Before reaching a final decision on how pre-school provision in special schools should be designed and delivered, I have called on the EA to provide me with assurances that there has been full and open engagement with those most directly affected by any decision on pre-school provision in special schools and that they have been listened to. I have also emphasised that the overriding consideration must be how best to meet the needs of the children who will be accessing that provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055280%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262898"}},{"id":"262751","reference":"AQW 55219/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-07","answerBy":"2016-03-23","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any outcomes following the recent meeting of the Ministerial Co-ordination Group on Suicide Prevention.","answerText":"At the meeting of the Ministerial Co-ordination Group on Suicide Prevention held on 29 February, it was agreed that more use needs to be made of different datasets on suicide and self harm in Northern Ireland and that Public Health Agency, DHSSPS and other agencies should investigate how this information can be linked together.\n\nIt was also agreed the Public Health Agency would consider suicide awareness and intervention training needs of a wider range of individuals who deal with members of the public.\n\nThere was discussion around the need to respond to recent high levels of suicide in Belfast. It was agreed that existing suicide prevention practice in Belfast should be reviewed, including the learning from the implementation of the Community Response Plans. The Public Health Agency is to take this forward with local community groups and public services in the context of the development of a Belfast-wide suicide prevention implementation plan.\n\nThe Public Health Agency provided an update on progress of the Rivers / Foyle Bridge project to prevent suicide in this area and agreed to keep the Group informed of progress.\n\nIt was also agreed that the main action points from the meeting would be shared with members of the Suicide Strategy Implementation Body and the local Protect Life Implementation groups.","answerHtml":"At the meeting of the Ministerial Co-ordination Group on Suicide Prevention held on 29 February, it was agreed that more use needs to be made of different datasets on suicide and self harm in Northern Ireland and that Public Health Agency, DHSSPS and other agencies should investigate how this information can be linked together.
It was also agreed the Public Health Agency would consider suicide awareness and intervention training needs of a wider range of individuals who deal with members of the public.
There was discussion around the need to respond to recent high levels of suicide in Belfast. It was agreed that existing suicide prevention practice in Belfast should be reviewed, including the learning from the implementation of the Community Response Plans. The Public Health Agency is to take this forward with local community groups and public services in the context of the development of a Belfast-wide suicide prevention implementation plan.
The Public Health Agency provided an update on progress of the Rivers / Foyle Bridge project to prevent suicide in this area and agreed to keep the Group informed of progress.
It was also agreed that the main action points from the meeting would be shared with members of the Suicide Strategy Implementation Body and the local Protect Life Implementation groups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055219%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262751","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262751"}},{"id":"262749","reference":"AQW 55217/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-07","answerBy":"2016-03-23","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail how the needs of vulnerable adults that are Northern Ireland Housing Executive customers are (i) assessed; (ii) identified; and (iii) met, to ensure they are safeguarded.","answerText":"When any person approaches the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) for a service, whether it’s a new housing applicant or an existing tenant, staff will assess their housing associated needs and advise on or recommend further support if this is deemed necessary for the person/family and their housing circumstances. Often, when the needs are more complex, or staff are not qualified to assist, the issue will be referred directly to the individual’s GP or Social Worker. Housing Executive staff are aware that it is part of their role to ensure that those organisations that have a responsibility to help people who are vulnerable are informed as appropriate.\n\nSafeguarding vulnerable people is a high priority for the Housing Executive and it has policies and procedures in place to address this. The policies and procedures are communicated to Housing Executive staff in a number of ways and a team of Designated Safeguarding Officers have been appointed, in a range of locations, to give direct access for staff members who need advice, support or who wish to make referrals to Social Services and or the PSNI.\n\nMany of the NIHE’s services are provided to assist vulnerable adults, such as homelessness services and services provided through the Supporting People Programme. While these services are not normally delivered directly by NIHE but through external providers, NIHE ensures that the providers have appropriate policies in place, that they communicate them effectively to staff and that they are properly enforced.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s policies on Safeguarding clearly state that any organisation, that acts as an agent for the Housing Executive, or provides services for the Housing Executive, on the basis of an agreement or contract, must have Safeguarding policies and procedures that are of an equivalent standard to the Housing Executive’s. This provision is supported by contractual documentation and the offer of training provided by the NIHE to the service provider/contractor.\n\nProviders funded through the Supporting People programme are not legally contractors or consultants. Rather, the Supporting People funding agreements create an independent funding relationship which is not analogous to an employer/contractor relationship. The Housing Executive use the Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) to assess and validate the quality of service, of which a core objective requires providers to have robust policies and procedures in place for safeguarding and protecting adults and children, that they have been reviewed in the last three years and, are in accordance with current legislation.\n\nThe obligation for vetting employees lies with the service provider. This responsibility remains with the recipient of the funding agreement, regardless of whether or not they sub-contract the agreement or any part of the agreement with or without consent.","answerHtml":"When any person approaches the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) for a service, whether it’s a new housing applicant or an existing tenant, staff will assess their housing associated needs and advise on or recommend further support if this is deemed necessary for the person/family and their housing circumstances. Often, when the needs are more complex, or staff are not qualified to assist, the issue will be referred directly to the individual’s GP or Social Worker. Housing Executive staff are aware that it is part of their role to ensure that those organisations that have a responsibility to help people who are vulnerable are informed as appropriate.
Safeguarding vulnerable people is a high priority for the Housing Executive and it has policies and procedures in place to address this. The policies and procedures are communicated to Housing Executive staff in a number of ways and a team of Designated Safeguarding Officers have been appointed, in a range of locations, to give direct access for staff members who need advice, support or who wish to make referrals to Social Services and or the PSNI.
Many of the NIHE’s services are provided to assist vulnerable adults, such as homelessness services and services provided through the Supporting People Programme. While these services are not normally delivered directly by NIHE but through external providers, NIHE ensures that the providers have appropriate policies in place, that they communicate them effectively to staff and that they are properly enforced.
The Housing Executive’s policies on Safeguarding clearly state that any organisation, that acts as an agent for the Housing Executive, or provides services for the Housing Executive, on the basis of an agreement or contract, must have Safeguarding policies and procedures that are of an equivalent standard to the Housing Executive’s. This provision is supported by contractual documentation and the offer of training provided by the NIHE to the service provider/contractor.
Providers funded through the Supporting People programme are not legally contractors or consultants. Rather, the Supporting People funding agreements create an independent funding relationship which is not analogous to an employer/contractor relationship. The Housing Executive use the Quality Assurance Framework (QAF) to assess and validate the quality of service, of which a core objective requires providers to have robust policies and procedures in place for safeguarding and protecting adults and children, that they have been reviewed in the last three years and, are in accordance with current legislation.
The obligation for vetting employees lies with the service provider. This responsibility remains with the recipient of the funding agreement, regardless of whether or not they sub-contract the agreement or any part of the agreement with or without consent.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055217%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262749"}},{"id":"262748","reference":"AQW 55216/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-07","answerBy":"2016-03-23","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel when the Northern Ireland Community Finance Fund will be open to applications.","answerText":"I expect that the Community Finance Fund will be open to applications in Autumn 2016.","answerHtml":"I expect that the Community Finance Fund will be open to applications in Autumn 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055216%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262748","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262748"}},{"id":"262747","reference":"AQW 55215/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-07","answerBy":"2016-03-23","answered":"2016-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of organisations that have applied to the new Pathways Fund that were not previously funded by his Department's Early Years Fund.","answerText":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (which administers the Pathway Fund on behalf of DE) advises that there are a total of 164 applications from organisations that were not previously funded by the DE Early Years Fund.","answerHtml":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (which administers the Pathway Fund on behalf of DE) advises that there are a total of 164 applications from organisations that were not previously funded by the DE Early Years Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055215%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262747","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262747"}},{"id":"262633","reference":"AQW 55201/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-04","answerBy":"2016-03-22","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for his assessment of the impact new taxi meters will have on taxi services in rural areas; and to detail what communication he has had with taxi companies regarding this issue.","answerText":"The impact that taximeters will have on taxi services in rural areas and in particular the issue of dead miles was raised by members of the Environment Committee on 7 January 2016 following come concerns raised by rural operators. Given the seriousness of the issue, that people in rural communities could be adversely affected, my Department has looked further at the issue and met with rural operators, the Departmental Solicitors Office and the Consumer Council to agree a course of action.\n\nAs a result, my Department will be amending the current regulations by adding an additional exemption to regulation 10(2) of the Taxis (Taximeters, Devices and Maximum Fares) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 which requires all Class A & B taxis to use a taximeter. This additional exemption exists when the passenger has been advised by the operator that the distance to be travelled by the taxi without the passenger in fulfilling the booking will exceed the actual distance of the passenger’s journey in the taxi, and the passenger signs a waiver to that effect waiving the right to have their fare calculated by taximeter.\n\nThe rural operators are very supportive of the proposals and agreed that the steps being taken satisfactorily address the issue.","answerHtml":"The impact that taximeters will have on taxi services in rural areas and in particular the issue of dead miles was raised by members of the Environment Committee on 7 January 2016 following come concerns raised by rural operators. Given the seriousness of the issue, that people in rural communities could be adversely affected, my Department has looked further at the issue and met with rural operators, the Departmental Solicitors Office and the Consumer Council to agree a course of action.
As a result, my Department will be amending the current regulations by adding an additional exemption to regulation 10(2) of the Taxis (Taximeters, Devices and Maximum Fares) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 which requires all Class A & B taxis to use a taximeter. This additional exemption exists when the passenger has been advised by the operator that the distance to be travelled by the taxi without the passenger in fulfilling the booking will exceed the actual distance of the passenger’s journey in the taxi, and the passenger signs a waiver to that effect waiving the right to have their fare calculated by taximeter.
The rural operators are very supportive of the proposals and agreed that the steps being taken satisfactorily address the issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055201%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262633","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262633"}},{"id":"262631","reference":"AQW 55199/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-04","answerBy":"2016-03-09","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the intended use of the entire Shackleton site at Ballykelly; and (ii) whether plans for its future use are now complete.","answerText":"OFMDFM has agreed to sell approximately 621.5 acres of the Shackleton site to the MJM Group. MJM’s plans for Shackleton include a private jet and rail carriage fit out facility, renewable energy and the company’s own IT service centre and facilities management services. MJM has also indicated that it would accommodate other business proposals from interested parties in order to fully exploit the site and maximise job creation opportunities.\n\nA key aspect of MJM’s proposal was its commitment to providing significant community benefits, including a refurbished community building and outdoor recreation facilities.\n\nThe remainder of the site will be developed by NI Water (approximately 86 acres of the site), for an Integrated Constructed Wetlands and by DARD (approximately 8.5 acres of the site), for its new Head Quarters.","answerHtml":"OFMDFM has agreed to sell approximately 621.5 acres of the Shackleton site to the MJM Group. MJM’s plans for Shackleton include a private jet and rail carriage fit out facility, renewable energy and the company’s own IT service centre and facilities management services. MJM has also indicated that it would accommodate other business proposals from interested parties in order to fully exploit the site and maximise job creation opportunities.
A key aspect of MJM’s proposal was its commitment to providing significant community benefits, including a refurbished community building and outdoor recreation facilities.
The remainder of the site will be developed by NI Water (approximately 86 acres of the site), for an Integrated Constructed Wetlands and by DARD (approximately 8.5 acres of the site), for its new Head Quarters.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055199%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262631","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262631"}},{"id":"262630","reference":"AQW 55198/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-04","answerBy":"2016-03-22","answered":"2016-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail the tariffs for newly installed taxi meters; and the criteria for setting the tariffs.","answerText":"The model for the maximum fare allows for three different flag drop fares (£3 for 6am-8pm Monday-Friday, £3.40 for 8pm-6am Monday-Thursday, and £4.20 for weekends), £0.20 for every 224 yards travelled or for each 73 seconds while the vehicle is stationary, the addition of tolls and other direct charges, the addition of £1 to the flag drop for the 5th and each additional passenger, and a maximum soiling charge of £75. The fare is broadly in line with the current regulated fare for Belfast Public Hire vehicles. It should be noted that the fare is a maximum fare and drivers can chose to use reduced tariffs in their taximeters. This is particularly pertinent in rural areas. The Department is currently making two amendments to the maximum tariff in relation to the waiting time and an enhanced fare to cover the Christmas and New Year periods. These changes have been accepted by the Environment Committee and will be relayed to the industry in early course.\n\nPA Consulting Services/Transport Research Institute carried out research on behalf of the Department in both rural and urban areas of Northern Ireland on the costs of providing a taxi service. The analysis identified the key elements that contribute to taxi driver costs, such as; fuel, vehicle capital & maintenance, insurance and of course the labour cost of the taxi driver and how these could be recouped to reflect the cost of supply. The tariff then is constructed to recoup these costs using a charge for distance and time and also provides for an unsociable hours premium (e.g. night times and weekends), an extra passenger allowance, direct journey expenses (airport parking tolls etc) and a soiling charge.","answerHtml":"The model for the maximum fare allows for three different flag drop fares (£3 for 6am-8pm Monday-Friday, £3.40 for 8pm-6am Monday-Thursday, and £4.20 for weekends), £0.20 for every 224 yards travelled or for each 73 seconds while the vehicle is stationary, the addition of tolls and other direct charges, the addition of £1 to the flag drop for the 5th and each additional passenger, and a maximum soiling charge of £75. The fare is broadly in line with the current regulated fare for Belfast Public Hire vehicles. It should be noted that the fare is a maximum fare and drivers can chose to use reduced tariffs in their taximeters. This is particularly pertinent in rural areas. The Department is currently making two amendments to the maximum tariff in relation to the waiting time and an enhanced fare to cover the Christmas and New Year periods. These changes have been accepted by the Environment Committee and will be relayed to the industry in early course.
PA Consulting Services/Transport Research Institute carried out research on behalf of the Department in both rural and urban areas of Northern Ireland on the costs of providing a taxi service. The analysis identified the key elements that contribute to taxi driver costs, such as; fuel, vehicle capital & maintenance, insurance and of course the labour cost of the taxi driver and how these could be recouped to reflect the cost of supply. The tariff then is constructed to recoup these costs using a charge for distance and time and also provides for an unsociable hours premium (e.g. night times and weekends), an extra passenger allowance, direct journey expenses (airport parking tolls etc) and a soiling charge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055198%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262630","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262630"}},{"id":"262626","reference":"AQW 55194/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-04","answerBy":"2016-03-22","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what assurances she can give that means testing for concessionary fares, including the Senior Citizen Smart Pass, will not be introduced; and that concessionary fares will be protected as a priority.","answerText":"I have no plans to introduce means testing for concessionary fares and can assure you that the Executive and I are committed to supporting, through the concessionary fares scheme, the elderly and other vulnerable groups within society.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to introduce means testing for concessionary fares and can assure you that the Executive and I are committed to supporting, through the concessionary fares scheme, the elderly and other vulnerable groups within society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055194%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262626","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262626"}},{"id":"262411","reference":"AQW 55136/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-03","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what guidance is available to taxi companies on fitting taxi meters prior to the implementation of the Taxis Act in May 2016.","answerText":"When the praying period in respect of the taximeter regulations elapsed on 2 February 2016, the Department communicated to all taxi drivers and operators to advise them of the new taximeter requirements and the relevant timescales.\n\nThe Department has also updated the NI Direct website to reflect the changes taking place in May 2016. The website hosts the Department's Approved Taximeter & Printer List, which will guide operators and drivers in terms of which devices are appropriate to install and use. There is also included on the website the new Maximum Fare structure so that operators are aware of the new restrictions around taxi fares.\n\nGuidance will continue to be issued to the industry as the commencement date for the incoming regime approaches.","answerHtml":"When the praying period in respect of the taximeter regulations elapsed on 2 February 2016, the Department communicated to all taxi drivers and operators to advise them of the new taximeter requirements and the relevant timescales.
The Department has also updated the NI Direct website to reflect the changes taking place in May 2016. The website hosts the Department's Approved Taximeter & Printer List, which will guide operators and drivers in terms of which devices are appropriate to install and use. There is also included on the website the new Maximum Fare structure so that operators are aware of the new restrictions around taxi fares.
Guidance will continue to be issued to the industry as the commencement date for the incoming regime approaches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055136%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262411"}},{"id":"262410","reference":"AQW 55135/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-03","answerBy":"2016-03-21","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the role of pharmacists in improving medicines management.","answerText":"Medicines management is complex and multi-factorial and so must incorporate a number of components in order to be effective. The evolving role of pharmacists has greatly improved the safety and quality of patient care resulting in health gain and economy of use of healthcare resources.\n\nThis is articulated in the recently published Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework (MOQF) which supports effective medicines management in all healthcare settings. In that context, I recently announced an investment in 2016/17 of up to £2.6 million, rising to £14 million per year in 2020/21, for pharmacists to work alongside GPs with the aim of improving the quality and safety of prescribing to deliver improved patient outcomes.","answerHtml":"Medicines management is complex and multi-factorial and so must incorporate a number of components in order to be effective. The evolving role of pharmacists has greatly improved the safety and quality of patient care resulting in health gain and economy of use of healthcare resources.
This is articulated in the recently published Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework (MOQF) which supports effective medicines management in all healthcare settings. In that context, I recently announced an investment in 2016/17 of up to £2.6 million, rising to £14 million per year in 2020/21, for pharmacists to work alongside GPs with the aim of improving the quality and safety of prescribing to deliver improved patient outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055135%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262410"}},{"id":"262409","reference":"AQW 55134/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-03","answerBy":"2016-03-21","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how much his Department has spent on medicine management, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Department does not hold this information centrally. As medicines management cuts across a range of disciplines and multi-disciplinary professionals in primary, secondary and community care it would be extremely difficult to accurately cost this.","answerHtml":"The Department does not hold this information centrally. As medicines management cuts across a range of disciplines and multi-disciplinary professionals in primary, secondary and community care it would be extremely difficult to accurately cost this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055134%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262409"}},{"id":"262408","reference":"AQW 55133/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-03","answerBy":"2016-03-21","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the current public engagement initiatives to raise awareness of medicines management, including the use of prescription medication.","answerText":"Current public engagement initiatives to raise awareness of medicines management and the use of prescription medication include an initiative by the Public Health Agency (PHA), in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships and Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams on the roll out of a drug disposal scheme (RAPID) which allows people to dispose of illicit drugs and unwanted prescribed medication.\n\nThe PHA has also commissioned the charity, ASCERT, to deliver a range of substance misuse awareness courses to professionals working in both the statutory and voluntary/community sectors across Northern Ireland; one of these courses covers prescribed medication. Awareness initiatives about risks around unsafe use of prescribed medication are also supported by the PHA.\n\nThe Health & Social Care Board (HSCB) has been engaging with the public recently to raise awareness in relation to medicines waste and the impact on health and social care. Other initiatives by the HSCB include the introduction of a pain tool kit, an awareness campaign on how to manage respiratory conditions such as asthma, a self-awareness campaign and the ‘Choose well’ campaign which is designed to help patients make the right decision on which services they choose based on their symptoms.\n\nIn addition, my Department has recently published a Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework which aims to support better health outcomes by focusing attention on gaining the best possible outcome from medicines every time that they are prescribed, dispensed or administered. Patient involvement is a key aspect of the Framework and in that context, work is ongoing with the Department of Finance and Personnel to organise an Innovation Lab to help understand peoples’ experiences of their medicines. The Patient and Client Council is engaged in that initiative in gathering views from patients.","answerHtml":"Current public engagement initiatives to raise awareness of medicines management and the use of prescription medication include an initiative by the Public Health Agency (PHA), in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships and Drug and Alcohol Coordination Teams on the roll out of a drug disposal scheme (RAPID) which allows people to dispose of illicit drugs and unwanted prescribed medication.
The PHA has also commissioned the charity, ASCERT, to deliver a range of substance misuse awareness courses to professionals working in both the statutory and voluntary/community sectors across Northern Ireland; one of these courses covers prescribed medication. Awareness initiatives about risks around unsafe use of prescribed medication are also supported by the PHA.
The Health & Social Care Board (HSCB) has been engaging with the public recently to raise awareness in relation to medicines waste and the impact on health and social care. Other initiatives by the HSCB include the introduction of a pain tool kit, an awareness campaign on how to manage respiratory conditions such as asthma, a self-awareness campaign and the ‘Choose well’ campaign which is designed to help patients make the right decision on which services they choose based on their symptoms.
In addition, my Department has recently published a Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework which aims to support better health outcomes by focusing attention on gaining the best possible outcome from medicines every time that they are prescribed, dispensed or administered. Patient involvement is a key aspect of the Framework and in that context, work is ongoing with the Department of Finance and Personnel to organise an Innovation Lab to help understand peoples’ experiences of their medicines. The Patient and Client Council is engaged in that initiative in gathering views from patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055133%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262408","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262408"}},{"id":"262211","reference":"AQW 55086/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-02","answerBy":"2016-03-18","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what support her Department can offer farmers in East Londonderry to engage with and participate in Northern Ireland’s Year of Food and Drink 2016.","answerText":"You will be aware that the Year of Food and Drink 2016 (YoF&D 2016) is a cross-departmental initiative led by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment.\n\nMy Department is supporting the YoF&D 2016 in a number of ways. There are activities being planned by the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) at Loughry Campus. In addition to this, my Department is providing funding through the Regional Food Programme (RFP).\n\nThe RFP supports projects/events/activities delivered by ‘not for profit’ agri-food groups which are representative of local producers (including farmers) and/or processors which will promote local agri-food products.\n\nExamples of some of the events that are being supported by the RFP during the YoF&D 2016 include the Food Pavilion at Balmoral Show 2016, Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, the NI Potato Festival at the Giant’s Causeway and the Food Pavilion at Ballymoney Show.\n\nI would encourage farmers in your constituency to get involved in any of the activities that are taking place within their local area. In particular the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend will be taking place on 18th – 19th June 2016. This initiative, which is in its fourth year, aims to increase the level of understanding of food production and the work of our farmers amongst members of the public. By demonstrating the farm to fork supply chain, the initiative reconnects visitors with farmers, food producers, processors and the countryside and educates them on the key role played by the agri-food sector in our economy. This initiative is led by the Ulster Farmers’ Union and further details can be found at http://www.openfarmweekend.com/Open-My-Farm.aspx.\n\nIt is my hope that the Year of Food and Drink 2016 will leave a lasting positive legacy for our agri-food industry.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that the Year of Food and Drink 2016 (YoF&D 2016) is a cross-departmental initiative led by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment.
My Department is supporting the YoF&D 2016 in a number of ways. There are activities being planned by the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) at Loughry Campus. In addition to this, my Department is providing funding through the Regional Food Programme (RFP).
The RFP supports projects/events/activities delivered by ‘not for profit’ agri-food groups which are representative of local producers (including farmers) and/or processors which will promote local agri-food products.
Examples of some of the events that are being supported by the RFP during the YoF&D 2016 include the Food Pavilion at Balmoral Show 2016, Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend, the NI Potato Festival at the Giant’s Causeway and the Food Pavilion at Ballymoney Show.
I would encourage farmers in your constituency to get involved in any of the activities that are taking place within their local area. In particular the Bank of Ireland Open Farm Weekend will be taking place on 18th – 19th June 2016. This initiative, which is in its fourth year, aims to increase the level of understanding of food production and the work of our farmers amongst members of the public. By demonstrating the farm to fork supply chain, the initiative reconnects visitors with farmers, food producers, processors and the countryside and educates them on the key role played by the agri-food sector in our economy. This initiative is led by the Ulster Farmers’ Union and further details can be found at http://www.openfarmweekend.com/Open-My-Farm.aspx.
It is my hope that the Year of Food and Drink 2016 will leave a lasting positive legacy for our agri-food industry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055086%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262211"}},{"id":"262210","reference":"AQW 55085/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-02","answerBy":"2016-03-18","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department is working with retailers to support local farmers and their produce.","answerText":"I, and my officials, have met with representatives of local supermarkets on a number of occasions. I continue to emphasise the support of local farmers and their produce and also highlight the need for a fair and equitable distribution of profits along the supply chain. To this end, I asked the Agri-Food Strategy Board to convene a Supply Chain Forum to bring together all stakeholders, including producers, retailers and Government, to work together to address the fragmentation in the supply chain and find a way forward. A second meeting is being planned and I also intend to visit Asda where I will again press for fairer returns and increased sourcing from local farmers and growers.\n\nIn 2013, I launched the ‘Switch to Local’ campaign, spearheaded by Tesco NI and in 2016, my Permanent Secretary launched Tesco’s Year of Food & Drink initiative, both aimed at encouraging consumers to choose from the wealth of high quality, innovative food which is produced in the north. My Department is providing support for the Year of Food & Drink through some activities at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) – Loughry Campus and via the Regional Food Programme (RFP). In particular, the RFP will provide funding for a number of initiatives that will seek to promote increased consumption and sourcing of local products. Many of these initiatives will take place in conjunction with retailers, large and small.\n\nMy Department, through CAFRE’s Loughry Campus, facilitates regular engagement between processors and retailers through a variety of seminars, training programmes and events, underpinning DARD’s commitment to making Loughry the Food Hub of the north. As well as informing processors about how to do business with retailers, this enables valuable networking to take place to increase retailers’ awareness of local produce. Most of the north’s retailers have also visited Loughry’s facilities, especially the new Food Innovation Centre, for events such as supplier awareness seminars.\n\nIn recent months, I and my officials have met with the NI Retail Consortium (NIRC) and NI Independent Retailer Trade Association (NIIRTA) to discuss issues including milk prices and other supply chain challenges. In addition, I met the NIRC to discuss beef labelling in the context of mixed origin cattle.\n\nI have also written recently to all supermarkets operating in the north about the decline in vegetable prices and to Tesco following the publication in January of the findings of the Grocery Code Adjudicator following their investigation into Tesco’s activities.\n\nDARD is committed to spreading the message about the integrity and provenance of our local agri-food, the high quality, flavours and tastes of local produce, and the green and natural countryside where our food is produced.","answerHtml":"I, and my officials, have met with representatives of local supermarkets on a number of occasions. I continue to emphasise the support of local farmers and their produce and also highlight the need for a fair and equitable distribution of profits along the supply chain. To this end, I asked the Agri-Food Strategy Board to convene a Supply Chain Forum to bring together all stakeholders, including producers, retailers and Government, to work together to address the fragmentation in the supply chain and find a way forward. A second meeting is being planned and I also intend to visit Asda where I will again press for fairer returns and increased sourcing from local farmers and growers.
In 2013, I launched the ‘Switch to Local’ campaign, spearheaded by Tesco NI and in 2016, my Permanent Secretary launched Tesco’s Year of Food & Drink initiative, both aimed at encouraging consumers to choose from the wealth of high quality, innovative food which is produced in the north. My Department is providing support for the Year of Food & Drink through some activities at the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) – Loughry Campus and via the Regional Food Programme (RFP). In particular, the RFP will provide funding for a number of initiatives that will seek to promote increased consumption and sourcing of local products. Many of these initiatives will take place in conjunction with retailers, large and small.
My Department, through CAFRE’s Loughry Campus, facilitates regular engagement between processors and retailers through a variety of seminars, training programmes and events, underpinning DARD’s commitment to making Loughry the Food Hub of the north. As well as informing processors about how to do business with retailers, this enables valuable networking to take place to increase retailers’ awareness of local produce. Most of the north’s retailers have also visited Loughry’s facilities, especially the new Food Innovation Centre, for events such as supplier awareness seminars.
In recent months, I and my officials have met with the NI Retail Consortium (NIRC) and NI Independent Retailer Trade Association (NIIRTA) to discuss issues including milk prices and other supply chain challenges. In addition, I met the NIRC to discuss beef labelling in the context of mixed origin cattle.
I have also written recently to all supermarkets operating in the north about the decline in vegetable prices and to Tesco following the publication in January of the findings of the Grocery Code Adjudicator following their investigation into Tesco’s activities.
DARD is committed to spreading the message about the integrity and provenance of our local agri-food, the high quality, flavours and tastes of local produce, and the green and natural countryside where our food is produced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055085%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262210"}},{"id":"262209","reference":"AQW 55084/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-02","answerBy":"2016-03-18","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the impact on farm businesses of red meat market price differentials between Northern Ireland and Great Britain.","answerText":"The beef and sheep sectors are extremely important to our agri-food industry and our wider economy.\n\nI have consistently stated that I want to see a strong, profitable red meat sector here and that this will only be achieved if farmers see a fair return for their high quality, traceable produce.\n\nI understand farmer concerns about the difference in the price they receive for their high quality beef and sheep meat, compared to their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales. Very recently, the UFU has indicated that the beef price differential is costing our beef industry as much as £17 million each year.\n\nMany factors affect the price our beef and sheep farmers receive. The 2013 Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) study, which examined the beef price differential, identified transport costs to Britain, cheaper supply available from the south and seasonality of production (usually with an over-supply in the autumn) as the main causes. Other factors influencing the prices include the structure of finishing, adherence to specifications and higher processing costs in the north.\n\nIn relation to the sheep price differential it is worth noting that various dressing specifications are utilised by abattoirs throughout Britain, making price comparisons difficult.\n\nI therefore welcome the recent report of the EFRA Parliamentary Committee on Farmgate prices which highlighted the price differential and its call for retailers to justify the reasoning behind the disparity in prices being paid in the north. I have asked my officials to monitor developments on this report carefully.\n\nObviously my Department does not set beef prices but where we can make a difference, I am keen to take steps. My officials have discussed these matters with representatives of the Ulster Farmers Union in recent weeks and are taking a fresh look at the LMC report.\n\nWe are also making progress on a number of important fronts to support a more efficient, sustainable and profitable red meat industry. These include opening access to new markets in Canada, Australia, the US and Philippines and support for knowledge transfer, innovation and cooperation and capital investment through the Farm Business Improvement Scheme.\n\nFurthermore, I will continue to do whatever I can to encourage fairness and transparency in the supply chain. You will be aware I have tasked the Agri-Food Strategy Board with establishing the Supply Chain Forum to examine how to improve the longer term sustainability of the local agri-food supply chain through enhanced communication and collaboration. The Forum, which is due to meet again in early 2016, will play a key role bringing together all elements of the supply chain together to enhance the competitiveness and profitability of the sector.","answerHtml":"The beef and sheep sectors are extremely important to our agri-food industry and our wider economy.
I have consistently stated that I want to see a strong, profitable red meat sector here and that this will only be achieved if farmers see a fair return for their high quality, traceable produce.
I understand farmer concerns about the difference in the price they receive for their high quality beef and sheep meat, compared to their counterparts in England, Scotland and Wales. Very recently, the UFU has indicated that the beef price differential is costing our beef industry as much as £17 million each year.
Many factors affect the price our beef and sheep farmers receive. The 2013 Livestock and Meat Commission (LMC) study, which examined the beef price differential, identified transport costs to Britain, cheaper supply available from the south and seasonality of production (usually with an over-supply in the autumn) as the main causes. Other factors influencing the prices include the structure of finishing, adherence to specifications and higher processing costs in the north.
In relation to the sheep price differential it is worth noting that various dressing specifications are utilised by abattoirs throughout Britain, making price comparisons difficult.
I therefore welcome the recent report of the EFRA Parliamentary Committee on Farmgate prices which highlighted the price differential and its call for retailers to justify the reasoning behind the disparity in prices being paid in the north. I have asked my officials to monitor developments on this report carefully.
Obviously my Department does not set beef prices but where we can make a difference, I am keen to take steps. My officials have discussed these matters with representatives of the Ulster Farmers Union in recent weeks and are taking a fresh look at the LMC report.
We are also making progress on a number of important fronts to support a more efficient, sustainable and profitable red meat industry. These include opening access to new markets in Canada, Australia, the US and Philippines and support for knowledge transfer, innovation and cooperation and capital investment through the Farm Business Improvement Scheme.
Furthermore, I will continue to do whatever I can to encourage fairness and transparency in the supply chain. You will be aware I have tasked the Agri-Food Strategy Board with establishing the Supply Chain Forum to examine how to improve the longer term sustainability of the local agri-food supply chain through enhanced communication and collaboration. The Forum, which is due to meet again in early 2016, will play a key role bringing together all elements of the supply chain together to enhance the competitiveness and profitability of the sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055084%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262209"}},{"id":"262208","reference":"AQW 55083/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-02","answerBy":"2016-03-18","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on the work of the Agri-Food Strategy Board Supply Chain Forum.","answerText":"The Supply Chain Forum was established at my request by the Agri-Food Strategy Board in 2015, with the first formal meeting taking place in October at the Food Innovation Centre at Loughry. That meeting brought together around 100 representatives from right across the supply chain and across a number of sectors to engage in open and frank discussions on issues such as volatility, competitiveness, sustainability, north/south collaboration and the need for contracts.\n\nFeedback from the attendees indicated that the event was very well received, with the vast majority of comments being positive. Key themes emerging from the day include the need for enhanced communication and greater collaboration, and recognition that action is required to improve the supply chain. Further detail on the presentations and discussions is available on the AFSB website.\n\nI recently received an update from the Chair on proposals for the next event which is expected to be held in the coming weeks. I reiterated my view of the importance of maintaining the momentum gained from the October meeting. I understand that the AFSB has been engaged in significant ground work in preparing for the next Forum, with a particular focus on identifying measures to help all parts of the supply chain manage the impact of volatility. I believe that the Forum is the right mechanism to facilitate discussion and look forward to receiving an update from its next meeting.","answerHtml":"The Supply Chain Forum was established at my request by the Agri-Food Strategy Board in 2015, with the first formal meeting taking place in October at the Food Innovation Centre at Loughry. That meeting brought together around 100 representatives from right across the supply chain and across a number of sectors to engage in open and frank discussions on issues such as volatility, competitiveness, sustainability, north/south collaboration and the need for contracts.
Feedback from the attendees indicated that the event was very well received, with the vast majority of comments being positive. Key themes emerging from the day include the need for enhanced communication and greater collaboration, and recognition that action is required to improve the supply chain. Further detail on the presentations and discussions is available on the AFSB website.
I recently received an update from the Chair on proposals for the next event which is expected to be held in the coming weeks. I reiterated my view of the importance of maintaining the momentum gained from the October meeting. I understand that the AFSB has been engaged in significant ground work in preparing for the next Forum, with a particular focus on identifying measures to help all parts of the supply chain manage the impact of volatility. I believe that the Forum is the right mechanism to facilitate discussion and look forward to receiving an update from its next meeting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055083%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262208","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262208"}},{"id":"262207","reference":"AQW 55082/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-02","answerBy":"2016-03-18","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what additional red meat export markets her Department is exploring.","answerText":"I am pleased that there are already a significant number of export markets open for our red meat. Most recently I welcomed the opening of the Canadian beef market which I know was valued by our industry and exports have already commenced.\n\nGoing forward I hope 2016 will see us opening even more priority red meat markets. My officials are working closely with our industry to prepare for inspections this year from the Philippines on beef and United States of America on beef and lamb as part of the process to agree terms to trade with these markets.\n\nChina remains a top priority for beef. We have made good progress in our negotiations with China and a second workshop to discuss our controls on TSE is planned for 2016. This is an important stage in what will be a lengthy negotiation process.\n\nMy officials also continue to work closely with our industry to identify any other red meat markets that represent a priority for them and through this engagement determine how government and industry can best work together to take forward negotiations.","answerHtml":"I am pleased that there are already a significant number of export markets open for our red meat. Most recently I welcomed the opening of the Canadian beef market which I know was valued by our industry and exports have already commenced.
Going forward I hope 2016 will see us opening even more priority red meat markets. My officials are working closely with our industry to prepare for inspections this year from the Philippines on beef and United States of America on beef and lamb as part of the process to agree terms to trade with these markets.
China remains a top priority for beef. We have made good progress in our negotiations with China and a second workshop to discuss our controls on TSE is planned for 2016. This is an important stage in what will be a lengthy negotiation process.
My officials also continue to work closely with our industry to identify any other red meat markets that represent a priority for them and through this engagement determine how government and industry can best work together to take forward negotiations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2055082%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=262207","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=262207"}},{"id":"261902","reference":"AQW 54974/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-01","answerBy":"2016-03-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the financial support available to families that have children with disabilities to help cover additional expenses related to their care.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts provide support to families that have children with disabilities based on their assessed need. The options available for families are discussed with parents, children and young people during the assessment process.\n\nParents and carers may also be eligible to apply for welfare benefits through the Social Security Agency for themselves as carers or for their child through Disability Living Allowance. In addition, Article18 (6) of the Children (NI) Order 1995 allows HSC Trusts to make a payment to children/families in exceptional circumstances.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts provide support to families that have children with disabilities based on their assessed need. The options available for families are discussed with parents, children and young people during the assessment process.
Parents and carers may also be eligible to apply for welfare benefits through the Social Security Agency for themselves as carers or for their child through Disability Living Allowance. In addition, Article18 (6) of the Children (NI) Order 1995 allows HSC Trusts to make a payment to children/families in exceptional circumstances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054974%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261902"}},{"id":"261901","reference":"AQW 54973/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-01","answerBy":"2016-03-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what support exists for parents and guardians that leave employment to provide full time care for a child that has a disability.","answerText":"Support is provided to families that have children with disabilities based upon assessed need. Disabled children and their families can access support and services through the Health and Social Care Trusts’ Children’s Disability and/or Community Health Teams.\n\nAn assessment of need will be undertaken and a support plan put in place to promote the child’s personal and social development, and support the parents in their caring role. This may include onward referrals to other professionals and services, and co-ordinated support.\n\nFurthermore, those parents who leave employment to provide full- time care for a disabled child may be eligible for welfare benefits through the Social Security Agency.","answerHtml":"Support is provided to families that have children with disabilities based upon assessed need. Disabled children and their families can access support and services through the Health and Social Care Trusts’ Children’s Disability and/or Community Health Teams.
An assessment of need will be undertaken and a support plan put in place to promote the child’s personal and social development, and support the parents in their caring role. This may include onward referrals to other professionals and services, and co-ordinated support.
Furthermore, those parents who leave employment to provide full- time care for a disabled child may be eligible for welfare benefits through the Social Security Agency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054973%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261901"}},{"id":"261900","reference":"AQW 54972/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-01","answerBy":"2016-03-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the role of key workers for the families of children with disabilities; and whether this is a mandatory provision within Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"It is assumed the term \"key worker\" refers to the lead professional in a case. The key worker plays an important role in the provision of services to children with disabilities and their families by carrying out an assessment of need and through the provision of advice, guidance, and access to a variety of services to safeguard and support disabled children/young people and their families.\n\nIn cases where, for example, the key worker in a Health and Social Care Trust is a Social Worker then the statutory/mandatory requirements of the Children (NI) Order 1995, Disabled Persons Act (NI) 1989, Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1978, Carers (Recognition and Services Act) 1995, Health and Social Services Order (NI) 1972 and the Direct Payment and Carers Act 2002 will apply.","answerHtml":"It is assumed the term "key worker" refers to the lead professional in a case. The key worker plays an important role in the provision of services to children with disabilities and their families by carrying out an assessment of need and through the provision of advice, guidance, and access to a variety of services to safeguard and support disabled children/young people and their families.
In cases where, for example, the key worker in a Health and Social Care Trust is a Social Worker then the statutory/mandatory requirements of the Children (NI) Order 1995, Disabled Persons Act (NI) 1989, Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons Act 1978, Carers (Recognition and Services Act) 1995, Health and Social Services Order (NI) 1972 and the Direct Payment and Carers Act 2002 will apply.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054972%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261900"}},{"id":"261895","reference":"AQW 54967/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-01","answerBy":"2016-03-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of families that have a child with a disability, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; and of this number how many (i) have a designated key worker; and (ii) do not have a designated key worker.","answerText":"Figures are not available in the format requested. Table 1 below details the number of known children in need with a disability at 30 September 2015 by Health and Social Care Trust. All of these children have a designated key worker.\n\nTable 1\n\nHealth & Social Care Trust\tNo. of children with a disability\nBelfast\t881\nNorthern\t856\nSouth Eastern\t736\nSouthern\t1,278\nWestern\t706\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Board – Delegated Statutory Functions Return 10.1.6","answerHtml":"Figures are not available in the format requested. Table 1 below details the number of known children in need with a disability at 30 September 2015 by Health and Social Care Trust. All of these children have a designated key worker.
Table 1
| Health & Social Care Trust | No. of children with a disability |
| Belfast | 881 |
| Northern | 856 |
| South Eastern | 736 |
| Southern | 1,278 |
| Western | 706 |
Source: Health and Social Care Board – Delegated Statutory Functions Return 10.1.6
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054967%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261895","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261895"}},{"id":"261893","reference":"AQW 54965/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-03-01","answerBy":"2016-03-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail why the children’s palliative care strategy has been delayed; and when it will be published.","answerText":"My Department’s ‘Children’s Palliative and End of Life Care in Northern Ireland Strategy’ was delayed due to the need to complete an implementation and investment plan. Publication of the strategy is being considered alongside other competing health and social care services requiring new investment in the years ahead. It would be inappropriate to raise expectations about the implementation of the strategy by publishing it while my Department’s overall budget position remains uncertain.","answerHtml":"My Department’s ‘Children’s Palliative and End of Life Care in Northern Ireland Strategy’ was delayed due to the need to complete an implementation and investment plan. Publication of the strategy is being considered alongside other competing health and social care services requiring new investment in the years ahead. It would be inappropriate to raise expectations about the implementation of the strategy by publishing it while my Department’s overall budget position remains uncertain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054965%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261893","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261893"}},{"id":"261779","reference":"AQW 54935/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-29","answerBy":"2016-03-15","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the final report on research into the skills needs of the tourism industry.","answerText":"Pursuant to AQW 48375/11-15, PACEC (formerly RSM McClure Watters) are expected to present the draft report to my Department in mid-March after requesting a short extension\n\nto the original deadline.\n\nIt is anticipated that a final version of the report will be completed by the end of March and will take account of comments from the Steering Committee, which was established by my Department to advise and guide us on the scope and remit of the research.","answerHtml":"Pursuant to AQW 48375/11-15, PACEC (formerly RSM McClure Watters) are expected to present the draft report to my Department in mid-March after requesting a short extension
to the original deadline.
It is anticipated that a final version of the report will be completed by the end of March and will take account of comments from the Steering Committee, which was established by my Department to advise and guide us on the scope and remit of the research.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054935%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261779","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261779"}},{"id":"261778","reference":"AQW 54934/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-29","answerBy":"2016-03-15","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail his Department’s careers policy for older people.","answerText":"My Department's Careers Service offers impartial and personalised advice and guidance on an all-age basis, provided by professionally qualified advisers. The aim is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of age or ability, have access to independent, high quality advice which helps them to maximise their potential and contribute to their community and the local economy.\n\nThe refreshed careers strategy Preparing for Success 2015-2020, which I launched recently with the Education Minister, sets out the vision and aims for the careers system for the coming years including the aspiration that all individuals are encouraged to develop the skills and qualifications most valued by employers.\n\nCareers Advisers can help individuals to explore their personal strengths, skills and abilities and explore opportunities for re-skilling and up-skilling, informed by the anticipated needs of the labour market. Help is also available for those facing redundancy or unemployment, and individuals hoping to return to the labour market.\n\nIn 2014/2015 the Careers Service delivered 16,608 careers guidance interviews with adults and has recently developed a multi-channel delivery approach which includes webchat and telephony as well as face-to-face services. This ensures that individuals are able to access careers support at a time, and in a way, that best suits their needs.\n\nCareers Advisers are located in Careers Resource Centres, Jobcentres and Jobs and Benefits Offices across Northern Ireland and details are on the NIDirect website.\n\nThe careers strategy Preparing for Success 2015-2010 can be found at;\n\nhttps://www.delni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/del/Careers%20Strategy%20%28web%29.pdf.","answerHtml":"My Department's Careers Service offers impartial and personalised advice and guidance on an all-age basis, provided by professionally qualified advisers. The aim is to ensure that all individuals, regardless of age or ability, have access to independent, high quality advice which helps them to maximise their potential and contribute to their community and the local economy.
The refreshed careers strategy Preparing for Success 2015-2020, which I launched recently with the Education Minister, sets out the vision and aims for the careers system for the coming years including the aspiration that all individuals are encouraged to develop the skills and qualifications most valued by employers.
Careers Advisers can help individuals to explore their personal strengths, skills and abilities and explore opportunities for re-skilling and up-skilling, informed by the anticipated needs of the labour market. Help is also available for those facing redundancy or unemployment, and individuals hoping to return to the labour market.
In 2014/2015 the Careers Service delivered 16,608 careers guidance interviews with adults and has recently developed a multi-channel delivery approach which includes webchat and telephony as well as face-to-face services. This ensures that individuals are able to access careers support at a time, and in a way, that best suits their needs.
Careers Advisers are located in Careers Resource Centres, Jobcentres and Jobs and Benefits Offices across Northern Ireland and details are on the NIDirect website.
The careers strategy Preparing for Success 2015-2010 can be found at;
https://www.delni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/del/Careers%20Strategy%20%28web%29.pdf.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054934%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261778","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261778"}},{"id":"261776","reference":"AQW 54932/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-29","answerBy":"2016-03-15","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of people who have enrolled in Further Education courses in the hospitality and tourism sectors in each of the last five years; and how many have secured employment in this sector following graduation.","answerText":"The most recent figures available, for the period 2010 - 2015, show that 31,296 individuals enrolled in ‘Hospitality and Catering’ or ‘Travel and Tourism’ at the six Further Education Colleges.\n\nThe figures are correct as at 19th November 2015 using the subject sector area Hospitality & Catering and Travel and Tourism for all colleges.\n\nThe Department for Employment and Learning does not hold data on the number who have secured employment in this sector following graduation.","answerHtml":"The most recent figures available, for the period 2010 - 2015, show that 31,296 individuals enrolled in ‘Hospitality and Catering’ or ‘Travel and Tourism’ at the six Further Education Colleges.
The figures are correct as at 19th November 2015 using the subject sector area Hospitality & Catering and Travel and Tourism for all colleges.
The Department for Employment and Learning does not hold data on the number who have secured employment in this sector following graduation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054932%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261776","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261776"}},{"id":"261771","reference":"AQW 54927/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-29","answerBy":"2016-03-15","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of jobs (i) promoted; and (ii) created in East Londonderry in each of the last five years.","answerText":"It should be noted that ‘jobs promoted’ are those which supported businesses expect to create in future years, whereas ‘Jobs created’ are jobs which have actually been filled at a particular point in time, and may relate to investments secured in earlier years. It is therefore not possible to directly compare the number of jobs promoted with those that have been created during the same period.\n\nTable 1 below details the number of jobs that Invest NI has helped promote in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency Area (PCA) in each of the last five financial years.\n\nTABLE 1: INVEST NI NEW JOBS PROMOTED IN EAST LONDONDERRY PCA\n\nYear\tNew Jobs Promoted\n2010-11\t182\n2011-12\t159\n2012-13\t160\n2013-14\t253\n2014-15\t213\n\nInvest NI only holds information on jobs created since the beginning of the current Programme for Government. Table 2 below details the number of jobs that Invest NI has helped to create in the East Londonderry constituency in each of the last four financial years.\n\nTABLE 2: INVEST NI NEW JOBS CREATED IN EAST LONDONDERRY PCA\n\nYear\tNew Jobs Created\n2011-12\t189\n2012-13\t141\n2013-14\t201\n2014-15\t255","answerHtml":"It should be noted that ‘jobs promoted’ are those which supported businesses expect to create in future years, whereas ‘Jobs created’ are jobs which have actually been filled at a particular point in time, and may relate to investments secured in earlier years. It is therefore not possible to directly compare the number of jobs promoted with those that have been created during the same period.
Table 1 below details the number of jobs that Invest NI has helped promote in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency Area (PCA) in each of the last five financial years.
TABLE 1: INVEST NI NEW JOBS PROMOTED IN EAST LONDONDERRY PCA
| Year | New Jobs Promoted |
| 2010-11 | 182 |
| 2011-12 | 159 |
| 2012-13 | 160 |
| 2013-14 | 253 |
| 2014-15 | 213 |
Invest NI only holds information on jobs created since the beginning of the current Programme for Government. Table 2 below details the number of jobs that Invest NI has helped to create in the East Londonderry constituency in each of the last four financial years.
TABLE 2: INVEST NI NEW JOBS CREATED IN EAST LONDONDERRY PCA
| Year | New Jobs Created |
| 2011-12 | 189 |
| 2012-13 | 141 |
| 2013-14 | 201 |
| 2014-15 | 255 |
In February 2016 my Department issued a letter to all industry stakeholders and Northern Ireland taxi drivers, including those in the East Londonderry constituency.
The letter advised of important changes for the taxi industry from 31 May 2016 and also provided a link to the nidirect website, a helpline phone number and a Taxis Act e-mail address. The letter also advised that my Department will be providing more detailed information over the coming months.
The information provided to date and continued communication in the weeks approaching the commencement of the new regulations will help taxi operators throughout the North to prepare and make the necessary arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054872%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261483"}},{"id":"261482","reference":"AQW 54871/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-26","answerBy":"2016-03-14","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail what communication he has had with taxi companies in East Londonderry, in advance of changes to the law in May 2016.","answerText":"In February 2016 my Department issued a letter to all industry stakeholders and Northern Ireland taxi drivers, including those in the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nThe letter advised of important changes for the taxi industry from 31 May 2016 and also provided a link to the nidirect website, a helpline phone number and a Taxis Act e-mail address. The letter also advised that my Department will be providing more detailed information over the coming months.\n\nThe information provided to date and continued communication in the weeks approaching the commencement of the new regulations will help taxi operators throughout the North to prepare and make the necessary arrangements.","answerHtml":"In February 2016 my Department issued a letter to all industry stakeholders and Northern Ireland taxi drivers, including those in the East Londonderry constituency.
The letter advised of important changes for the taxi industry from 31 May 2016 and also provided a link to the nidirect website, a helpline phone number and a Taxis Act e-mail address. The letter also advised that my Department will be providing more detailed information over the coming months.
The information provided to date and continued communication in the weeks approaching the commencement of the new regulations will help taxi operators throughout the North to prepare and make the necessary arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054871%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261482"}},{"id":"261481","reference":"AQW 54870/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-26","answerBy":"2016-03-14","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the review of non-domestic rates.","answerText":"The Review of the Non-Domestic Rating System consultation exercise officially closed on 25 January. The Department did however allow respondents until the end of January, with the final response accepted on the 5 February. The Department received 113 responses from organisations and individual ratepayers which represents a good outcome in terms of level of engagement.\n\nAny significant reforms emerging from this review will eventually need new primary legislation. Therefore, as the current Assembly mandate will end in March, it will be for the next Executive to take this forward.\n\nA consultation report has been drafted and earlier this month it was independently validated by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre. It will be published shortly.\n\nThe DFP Committee has been briefed already on the main review findings and further briefing will take place over the coming months as this mandate draws to a close and the newly elected administration is established. The Committee’s views will be taken into account before options are formally presented to the new Executive Ministers for decision.\n\nAny changes that are radical or contentious will need further research, impact assessment work and additional consultation before being presented for decision.","answerHtml":"The Review of the Non-Domestic Rating System consultation exercise officially closed on 25 January. The Department did however allow respondents until the end of January, with the final response accepted on the 5 February. The Department received 113 responses from organisations and individual ratepayers which represents a good outcome in terms of level of engagement.
Any significant reforms emerging from this review will eventually need new primary legislation. Therefore, as the current Assembly mandate will end in March, it will be for the next Executive to take this forward.
A consultation report has been drafted and earlier this month it was independently validated by the Ulster University Economic Policy Centre. It will be published shortly.
The DFP Committee has been briefed already on the main review findings and further briefing will take place over the coming months as this mandate draws to a close and the newly elected administration is established. The Committee’s views will be taken into account before options are formally presented to the new Executive Ministers for decision.
Any changes that are radical or contentious will need further research, impact assessment work and additional consultation before being presented for decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054870%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261481"}},{"id":"261472","reference":"AQW 54861/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-26","answerBy":"2016-03-14","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has considered appointing a local mental health commissioner.","answerText":"Mental health services in Northern Ireland are commissioned by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency to meet the needs of the population of Northern Ireland, in line with the Bamford Action Plan. There are no plans to appoint a local mental health commissioner.","answerHtml":"Mental health services in Northern Ireland are commissioned by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency to meet the needs of the population of Northern Ireland, in line with the Bamford Action Plan. There are no plans to appoint a local mental health commissioner.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054861%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261472","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261472"}},{"id":"261363","reference":"AQW 54836/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-25","answerBy":"2016-03-11","answered":"2016-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department is supporting children from areas of greater deprivation and lower socio-economic backgrounds to ensure that they can read well when they leave primary education.","answerText":"‘Count, Read: Succeed’, the literacy and numeracy strategy, aims to raise attainment levels in both literacy and numeracy and narrow the gap in educational outcomes.\n\nEffective intervention must be available to pupils in their early years, when they develop the foundations for literacy. This is reflected in both ‘Count, Read: Succeed’ and in the Learning to Learn framework.\n\nEarly years education in the form of Sure Start and the Pre-School Education Programme offer essential age and stage appropriate services which contribute directly to children achieving their full potential. The importance of providing effective speech and language support from an early age is one of the six core elements of the Sure Start programme and the Department provides specific funding within the programme to support delivery of speech and language services. Provision of speech and language support is also an essential component of the Sure Start Developmental Programme for 2-3 year olds.\n\nThe Extended Schools programme provides additional resources to over 500 schools to support the drive to maximize learning and achievement for those children and young people most in need or at risk of low educational achievement. Extended Services funding is available to eligible non-statutory pre-school education settings and targets those children in the most deprived areas and is aimed at helping the social, emotional, communication and language skills of young children.\n\nIn primary schools, the Delivering Social Change (DSC) Literacy and Numeracy Signature Programme provided an additional teaching resource to 151 primary schools in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 academic years and a Legacy Programme will ensure that the best practice and learning developed through the Programme can be disseminated across all schools. Support for literacy provision was also the focus the SEN Literacy Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Project which I funded from 2012/13 to 2014/15 and the current Literacy and Numeracy Key Stage 2/3 CPD project.\n\nParents also have an important role to play in their child’s early education; this is a focus of my Education Works campaign. In addition, as part of the Delivering Social Change agenda, the Department has been working with the DHSSPS on the Early Intervention Transformation Programme that seeks to equip, support and empower parents to provide their children with the best start in life.","answerHtml":"‘Count, Read: Succeed’, the literacy and numeracy strategy, aims to raise attainment levels in both literacy and numeracy and narrow the gap in educational outcomes.
Effective intervention must be available to pupils in their early years, when they develop the foundations for literacy. This is reflected in both ‘Count, Read: Succeed’ and in the Learning to Learn framework.
Early years education in the form of Sure Start and the Pre-School Education Programme offer essential age and stage appropriate services which contribute directly to children achieving their full potential. The importance of providing effective speech and language support from an early age is one of the six core elements of the Sure Start programme and the Department provides specific funding within the programme to support delivery of speech and language services. Provision of speech and language support is also an essential component of the Sure Start Developmental Programme for 2-3 year olds.
The Extended Schools programme provides additional resources to over 500 schools to support the drive to maximize learning and achievement for those children and young people most in need or at risk of low educational achievement. Extended Services funding is available to eligible non-statutory pre-school education settings and targets those children in the most deprived areas and is aimed at helping the social, emotional, communication and language skills of young children.
In primary schools, the Delivering Social Change (DSC) Literacy and Numeracy Signature Programme provided an additional teaching resource to 151 primary schools in the 2013/14 and 2014/15 academic years and a Legacy Programme will ensure that the best practice and learning developed through the Programme can be disseminated across all schools. Support for literacy provision was also the focus the SEN Literacy Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Project which I funded from 2012/13 to 2014/15 and the current Literacy and Numeracy Key Stage 2/3 CPD project.
Parents also have an important role to play in their child’s early education; this is a focus of my Education Works campaign. In addition, as part of the Delivering Social Change agenda, the Department has been working with the DHSSPS on the Early Intervention Transformation Programme that seeks to equip, support and empower parents to provide their children with the best start in life.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054836%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261363","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261363"}},{"id":"261326","reference":"AQW 54799/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-25","answerBy":"2016-03-11","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what financial support is available to local entrepreneurs who want to start their own business and who have consulted with Invest NI to deliver a business plan.","answerText":"Invest NI provides financial grant support to new business start-ups with export focussed business ideas. Support is wide ranging and can focus on trade development, skills development, research, process development, intellectual property and assistance toward the costs of employing new staff.\n\nExport and Global Start assistance is available to entrepreneurs starting an export focussed business or who have an established business seeking to enter export markets for the first time. These businesses are typically supported in areas of job creation, marketing, ICT, skills and strategy and R&D.\n\nInnovation Vouchers of up to £5,000 are available to enable small and medium sized enterprises to engage with one of the 39 universities, colleges and other publicly funded research organisations throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The voucher allows businesses to access specialist skills and expertise to provide an innovative solution to a business issue that cannot be easily solved by the private sector or other support mechanisms.\n\nThe Technical Development Incentive can offer business start-ups 50% support on eligible technical supplier costs up to a maximum grant of £5,000. Areas supported include Intellectual Property (IP), investigating new technologies and processes, product and process problem resolution, product approval/global technical compliance, process and quality management schemes and improved product design and performance.\n\nThe Propel Programme helps put the structure around the company to commercialise the service or product and seek investment. Selective Financial Assistance can be used to help accelerate growth. Invest NI also provides a wide range of other assistance appropriate for the High Potential Start Up such as helping the companies with design, to train staff, protect their IP, develop their management team and strengthen their board.\n\nSeparate from grants Invest NI also provides support to startups through its Access to Finance Programmes via NI Small Business Loan Fund, Techstart NI and Co-Fund NI and equity to grow businesses can be provided by the Growth Loan Fund and Development Funds respectively.\n\nAdvice and guidance is available to all businesses throughout Northern Ireland through nibusinessinfo.co.uk - the official online channel for business advice provided by Invest NI, in partnership with NI Direct. Businesses can avail of a range of advisory assistance on business related topics including sales & marketing, design and finance as well as information on events.","answerHtml":"Invest NI provides financial grant support to new business start-ups with export focussed business ideas. Support is wide ranging and can focus on trade development, skills development, research, process development, intellectual property and assistance toward the costs of employing new staff.
Export and Global Start assistance is available to entrepreneurs starting an export focussed business or who have an established business seeking to enter export markets for the first time. These businesses are typically supported in areas of job creation, marketing, ICT, skills and strategy and R&D.
Innovation Vouchers of up to £5,000 are available to enable small and medium sized enterprises to engage with one of the 39 universities, colleges and other publicly funded research organisations throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The voucher allows businesses to access specialist skills and expertise to provide an innovative solution to a business issue that cannot be easily solved by the private sector or other support mechanisms.
The Technical Development Incentive can offer business start-ups 50% support on eligible technical supplier costs up to a maximum grant of £5,000. Areas supported include Intellectual Property (IP), investigating new technologies and processes, product and process problem resolution, product approval/global technical compliance, process and quality management schemes and improved product design and performance.
The Propel Programme helps put the structure around the company to commercialise the service or product and seek investment. Selective Financial Assistance can be used to help accelerate growth. Invest NI also provides a wide range of other assistance appropriate for the High Potential Start Up such as helping the companies with design, to train staff, protect their IP, develop their management team and strengthen their board.
Separate from grants Invest NI also provides support to startups through its Access to Finance Programmes via NI Small Business Loan Fund, Techstart NI and Co-Fund NI and equity to grow businesses can be provided by the Growth Loan Fund and Development Funds respectively.
Advice and guidance is available to all businesses throughout Northern Ireland through nibusinessinfo.co.uk - the official online channel for business advice provided by Invest NI, in partnership with NI Direct. Businesses can avail of a range of advisory assistance on business related topics including sales & marketing, design and finance as well as information on events.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054799%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261326"}},{"id":"261318","reference":"AQW 54791/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-25","answerBy":"2016-03-11","answered":"2016-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on proposals to change the housing allocations system.","answerText":"My officials continue to gather evidence and work up proposals for changes to the allocations system, following publication of independent recommendations on this issue. Any proposals for change will be subject to a full public consultation.","answerHtml":"My officials continue to gather evidence and work up proposals for changes to the allocations system, following publication of independent recommendations on this issue. Any proposals for change will be subject to a full public consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054791%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261318","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261318"}},{"id":"261307","reference":"AQW 54780/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-25","answerBy":"2016-03-11","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what financial support is available from Invest NI to small and medium enterprise start-ups which are not seeking to expand into export markets.","answerText":"Invest NI’s financial support for start-ups is primarily for businesses which demonstrate potential to grow exports and create jobs. However, locally focussed start-ups can access funding from Invest NI under the following measures:\n\nThe NI Small Business Loan Fund is a £5 million revolving loan fund for individuals, private companies and social enterprises in the SME and micro enterprise size range based in Northern Ireland.\n\nInnovation Vouchers are worth up to £5,000 and enable small and medium sized enterprises to engage with one of the 39 universities, colleges and other publicly funded research organisations throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The voucher allows businesses to access specialist skills and expertise to provide an innovative solution to a business issue that cannot be easily solved by the private sector or other support mechanisms.\n\nIn addition, the Regional Start Initiative, now delivered on behalf of local Councils by Enterprise NI, provides individuals who wish to start their own business with advice and the capability to produce their own business plan. The intention is that this business plan will provide a template for the new entrepreneur to plan and access sources of funds for the business.\n\nAdvice and guidance is also available to all businesses throughout Northern Ireland through nibusinessinfo.co.uk - the official online channel for business advice provided by Invest NI, in partnership with NI Direct. Businesses can avail of a range of advisory assistance on business related topics including sales & marketing, design and finance as well as information on events.","answerHtml":"Invest NI’s financial support for start-ups is primarily for businesses which demonstrate potential to grow exports and create jobs. However, locally focussed start-ups can access funding from Invest NI under the following measures:
The NI Small Business Loan Fund is a £5 million revolving loan fund for individuals, private companies and social enterprises in the SME and micro enterprise size range based in Northern Ireland.
Innovation Vouchers are worth up to £5,000 and enable small and medium sized enterprises to engage with one of the 39 universities, colleges and other publicly funded research organisations throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. The voucher allows businesses to access specialist skills and expertise to provide an innovative solution to a business issue that cannot be easily solved by the private sector or other support mechanisms.
In addition, the Regional Start Initiative, now delivered on behalf of local Councils by Enterprise NI, provides individuals who wish to start their own business with advice and the capability to produce their own business plan. The intention is that this business plan will provide a template for the new entrepreneur to plan and access sources of funds for the business.
Advice and guidance is also available to all businesses throughout Northern Ireland through nibusinessinfo.co.uk - the official online channel for business advice provided by Invest NI, in partnership with NI Direct. Businesses can avail of a range of advisory assistance on business related topics including sales & marketing, design and finance as well as information on events.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054780%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261307"}},{"id":"261306","reference":"AQW 54779/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-25","answerBy":"2016-03-11","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for his assessment of the impact of a mandatory National Living Wage, from April 2016, on operating costs for small and medium sized businesses; and what support his Department can offer businesses that may seek to cut staff numbers or working hours as a result.","answerText":"The National Living Wage will be introduced in April 2016 and means that people aged 25 or over will be legally entitled to at least £7.20 per hour. This will give a pay rise of over 7% to the lowest paid in society.\n\nOf course this does have a corresponding impact on cost for businesses. My Department will be taking forward research during 2016 looking at the most recent increase and further planned increases up to 2020 to determine the potential economic impact of the National Living Wage.\n\nThis work will help to inform whether any additional support measures over and above the wide range of support already on offer by Invest NI are required.","answerHtml":"The National Living Wage will be introduced in April 2016 and means that people aged 25 or over will be legally entitled to at least £7.20 per hour. This will give a pay rise of over 7% to the lowest paid in society.
Of course this does have a corresponding impact on cost for businesses. My Department will be taking forward research during 2016 looking at the most recent increase and further planned increases up to 2020 to determine the potential economic impact of the National Living Wage.
This work will help to inform whether any additional support measures over and above the wide range of support already on offer by Invest NI are required.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054779%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261306"}},{"id":"261213","reference":"AQO 9825/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-25","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-08","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the ongoing review of General Practice.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"In October last year, I established a working group to review the provision of GP-led care and to make recommendations aimed at ensuring the future sustainability of GP services. That working group has been led by my Department, and its membership includes a patient representative, GP representatives and members of the Health and Social Care Board, health and social care trusts, the Royal College of Nursing and the Allied Health Professions Federation. The group has met regularly since its establishment and has considered a wide range of issues, including the recruitment and retention of GPs and how best to support the existing GP workforce. The group is finalising its report, and I expect to receive a copy in the next few days. I will, of course, give careful consideration to its findings and recommendations. I expect the working group's recommendations to build on actions that I have already taken to address the challenges that GPs face. I recently announced an investment of £1·2 million each year to commission an additional 20 GP training places, starting in 2016-17. That is the largest investment in GP training for more than 10 years and will increase the number of GP trainees to 85 per year from August 2016. In December, I announced a five-year investment initiative that will put close to 300 pharmacists in GP practices by 2021, easing pressures on GPs and ensuring that patients continue to receive a high-quality service. In addition, as part of an investment package of up to £5·1 million in 2015-16, new schemes have been introduced aimed at encouraging GPs who have left practice in Northern Ireland to return and supporting the existing GP workforce to remain in practice. Those actions are helping to ensure that the people of Northern Ireland continue to have timely access to sustainable, high-quality, GP-led primary care services."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I appreciate the Minister's response. I recently met doctors from general practice who told me that they were at breaking point because they felt that their resources were so tightly squeezed. One of the biggest pressures is GPs taking on responsibilities that have never been theirs, such as interpreting results from consultants or even filling in DLA forms —"},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"I ask the Member to come to her question, please."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"How does the Minister intend to move forward after the report to support GPs so that their workload is not as significant?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"One issue in particular that the Member raised is not something that the Department or the board will ask GPs to do in the system. It is a matter for them to take on board themselves. Sometimes we forget that they are independent contractors, as opposed to people working directly for health trusts, the board or the Department. I accept that it is a profession that is under pressure. You just have to look at the increase in consultations. In 2008-09, there were 10·2 million consultations in Northern Ireland: that rose to 12·7 million in 2013-14, which was an increase of around a quarter. Clearly, that will put pressure on a GP workforce that is exceptionally good but is ageing, and those pressures are not helping to retain people in the system. I acknowledge the pressures. That is why a package of measures has been put in place to deal with the pressures that GPs face. I, too, have met individual GPs. I have met the Royal College of General Practitioners and the British Medical Association. On top of the funding package of around £10 million that was put in place in April last year for a GP modernisation fund, some investment in skills and some investment in developing GP federations, we have made the biggest investment in 10 years, as I noted, by increasing GP training places to deal with GPs leaving and not being able to retain them. The working group itself is a response to a call from that sector for short-, medium- and long-term recommendations. The GP pharmacist initiative is something that GPs have called for. Yes, there is a problem. We accept and acknowledge that, but we are not sitting back doing nothing. We are coming forward with a range of measures, many of which owe their origins to the profession suggesting them and the Department positively responding."},{"speaker":"Mrs Cameron","text":"We understand the pressures that GPs are under, and the Minister has mentioned the pharmacists in GP practices initiative. Can he outline some of the benefits of that initiative?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"It is something that I was pleased to announce towards the tail end of last year. As I mentioned in response to Ms Sugden, it was something that we had been working with GPs on. They suggested the idea, we piloted a scheme, and I was able to see a pilot scheme at the Arches practice at the bottom of the Holywood Road in Belfast. We have been announcing a five-year investment that will start off quite small. There will be £2·6 million in the next financial year, rising to £14 million by 2020-21. Over five years, that will allow us to ramp up the number of pharmacists working alongside GP practices. Some will be full-time and some part-time. Some will be shared between a couple of practices. In more rural areas, it might be one day in practices over a wider area. There are benefits in two areas. There will be financial savings. We anticipate that, by 2021, our investment will yield savings of around £16 million, so the scheme will pay for itself. There are also non-monetary benefits, including better prescribing. GPs will be able to do regular checks on what people are being prescribed and whether it is working for them. The initiative will reduce prescribing costs and increase capacity in GP surgeries. GPs will be able to use the pharmacists to remove some of the pressure that they face. Hopefully, it will also reduce the number of acute admissions. Therefore, a range of benefits, monetary and non-monetary, will be derived from this innovative initiative, which I was very pleased to announce last year."},{"speaker":"Mr Diver","text":"I thank the Minister for his answers to date. Minister, despite listening with interest to the range of measures that you are putting in place to help general practice, in my constituency in the west, we are aware of falling numbers of trainees coming into general practice, and the scheme is undersubscribed year after year. What effect is that having on the strategic goals for GPs in Transforming Your Care, considering that one GP said to me only today that falling numbers make the Transforming Your Care plans impossible?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"As I hope I have indicated in the answers that I have given so far, I accept that there are pressures and I acknowledge that there is an issue with general practice. That is why we have been rolling out all the various initiatives and investments that we have been making. I accept that there are some parts of the Province where the problem is particularly acute compared with others. I am not saying, for example, that there are not issues in the Belfast or greater Belfast area, but there is certainly an acuteness of the problem in the west of the Province. I recently visited not quite the Member's constituency but Fermanagh, along with the First Minister, to hear directly from GPs in that county about the difficulties that they are facing. I accept and acknowledge the problem that they are facing, because the problems about which I responded to Ms Sugden are a little more pronounced in that part of Northern Ireland. The fact that we have a GP workforce where around a quarter are over 55 seems to be a much more pronounced problem in the west of the Province. Where you have many GP practices in the west of the Province that are single or have just two GPs, that adds to the pressures that people are facing. One of the impacts of one of the initiatives, the £1·2 million investment in more GP training places, which is the biggest investment of its kind in over a decade, will see 20 more GPs go into training. Four of those GP training places will go into the Western Trust area to help to alleviate some of those problems. Obviously, that will be cumulative over the next number of years as those numbers start to move through the system. There is an issue with retention, which I am keen to address. Without having seen the response of the working group, I will be very surprised if it does not make a recommendation to do something in respect of trying to retain GPs in certain parts of the Province, particularly in the west and the north-west."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209825%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261213","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2016-03-08&docID=262043#AQO%209825/11-16","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261213"}},{"id":"261130","reference":"AQW 54715/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-24","answerBy":"2016-03-10","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on work to establish a compact civic advisory panel as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement.","answerText":"We are currently giving consideration to identifying and appointing members to the Compact Civic Advisory Panel. The Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan of 17 November 2015 envisaged a Panel of six people being tasked by the Executive to consider specific strategic issues relevant to the Programme for Government. The Panel will report to the Executive, and it may also propose subjects for consideration and seek Executive agreement to do so. It is expected that the panel will seek the views of a wide range of representatives and stakeholders from civic society in recognition of the importance of having civic voices heard, and civic views considered, in relation to key social, cultural and economic issues.","answerHtml":"We are currently giving consideration to identifying and appointing members to the Compact Civic Advisory Panel. The Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan of 17 November 2015 envisaged a Panel of six people being tasked by the Executive to consider specific strategic issues relevant to the Programme for Government. The Panel will report to the Executive, and it may also propose subjects for consideration and seek Executive agreement to do so. It is expected that the panel will seek the views of a wide range of representatives and stakeholders from civic society in recognition of the importance of having civic voices heard, and civic views considered, in relation to key social, cultural and economic issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054715%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261130","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261130"}},{"id":"261129","reference":"AQW 54714/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-24","answerBy":"2016-03-10","answered":"2016-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how he is supporting organisations and their employees that are on protective notice pending his Department’s decision on funding for Neighbourhood Renewal projects in 2016-2017.","answerText":"Whilst the process of assessing Neighbourhood Renewal applications is ongoing, I recognise the uncertainty that exists during the process. I can give assurance that my Officials are working to complete the process in order so that organisations are made aware of the outcome as soon as is possible.\n\nWith regards to supporting employees it should be noted as the employer, funded organisations are responsible for any decision to place staff on protective notice. Accordingly the organisation assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for their employees.","answerHtml":"Whilst the process of assessing Neighbourhood Renewal applications is ongoing, I recognise the uncertainty that exists during the process. I can give assurance that my Officials are working to complete the process in order so that organisations are made aware of the outcome as soon as is possible.
With regards to supporting employees it should be noted as the employer, funded organisations are responsible for any decision to place staff on protective notice. Accordingly the organisation assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for their employees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054714%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261129","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261129"}},{"id":"261128","reference":"AQW 54713/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-24","answerBy":"2016-03-10","answered":"2016-03-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether employees of Neighbourhood Renewal funded projects in East Londonderry are currently on protective notice pending his Department's decision on funding for 2016-2017.","answerText":"I have been advised that employees of Neighbourhood Renewal funded projects in East Londonderry have been placed on protective notice, pending my Department’s decision on funding support for 2016-17. It should be noted that the funded organisation is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for its employees, including the decision to place staff on protective notice.","answerHtml":"I have been advised that employees of Neighbourhood Renewal funded projects in East Londonderry have been placed on protective notice, pending my Department’s decision on funding support for 2016-17. It should be noted that the funded organisation is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for its employees, including the decision to place staff on protective notice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054713%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261128","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261128"}},{"id":"261127","reference":"AQW 54712/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-24","answerBy":"2016-03-10","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail the funding which is available for the Dungiven bypass as part of the A6 scheme.","answerText":"The December 2015 Budget Statement contained a major flagship project to upgrade the A6 linking Belfast and Londonderry. Two major roads projects are planned to improve the A6, the Randalstown to Castledawson and Londonderry to Dungiven dual carriageway schemes.\n\nThe 2016/17 allocation will allow the A6 Randalstown to Castledawson scheme to commence in late summer/autumn 2016, subject to approval of the final business case. Work is ongoing finalising the detailed design, but the current estimate for this scheme is in the range £120m to £140m.\n\nThe indicative allocation for the A6 flagship project in the Budget Statement is £258m over the 2016/17 – 2020/21 period, thus approximately £130m is available for the Londonderry to Dungiven scheme. Work is currently underway to determine the extent of this scheme, including a Dungiven bypass, which can be delivered within this indicative funding allocation. It is envisaged that priority shall be given to construction from Dungiven towards Londonderry.","answerHtml":"The December 2015 Budget Statement contained a major flagship project to upgrade the A6 linking Belfast and Londonderry. Two major roads projects are planned to improve the A6, the Randalstown to Castledawson and Londonderry to Dungiven dual carriageway schemes.
The 2016/17 allocation will allow the A6 Randalstown to Castledawson scheme to commence in late summer/autumn 2016, subject to approval of the final business case. Work is ongoing finalising the detailed design, but the current estimate for this scheme is in the range £120m to £140m.
The indicative allocation for the A6 flagship project in the Budget Statement is £258m over the 2016/17 – 2020/21 period, thus approximately £130m is available for the Londonderry to Dungiven scheme. Work is currently underway to determine the extent of this scheme, including a Dungiven bypass, which can be delivered within this indicative funding allocation. It is envisaged that priority shall be given to construction from Dungiven towards Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054712%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261127","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261127"}},{"id":"261126","reference":"AQW 54711/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-24","answerBy":"2016-03-10","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development when construction work will begin on the bypass at Dungiven, following the announced outcomes of the public enquiry for the A6.","answerText":"The indicative allocations for the 2017/18 – 2020/21 period will fund construction of part of the A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dualling scheme. My Department is currently considering the extent of the scheme, including a bypass of Dungiven, which could be delivered. It is envisaged that priority will be given to construction from Dungiven towards Londonderry.\n\nSubject to making the Statutory Orders, approval of the final Business Case and successful procurement, it is possible the first phase of Londonderry to Dungiven scheme could commence in 2018/19.","answerHtml":"The indicative allocations for the 2017/18 – 2020/21 period will fund construction of part of the A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dualling scheme. My Department is currently considering the extent of the scheme, including a bypass of Dungiven, which could be delivered. It is envisaged that priority will be given to construction from Dungiven towards Londonderry.
Subject to making the Statutory Orders, approval of the final Business Case and successful procurement, it is possible the first phase of Londonderry to Dungiven scheme could commence in 2018/19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054711%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=261126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=261126"}},{"id":"260943","reference":"AQW 54697/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-23","answerBy":"2016-03-09","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail what communication he has had with the Driver and Vehicle Agency regarding changes to the Taxis Act (NI) 2008 in order to protect wedding car companies; and to detail (i) a time frame for this communication; and (ii) any outcomes from the communication.","answerText":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.\n\nIn terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.\n\nFrom a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.\n\nI met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.\n\nIn terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.\n\nThe Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.","answerHtml":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.
In terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.
From a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.
I met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.
In terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.
The Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054697%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260943","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260943"}},{"id":"260942","reference":"AQW 54696/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-23","answerBy":"2016-03-09","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment whether he plans to exclude wedding car companies from the Taxis Act (NI) 2008.","answerText":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.\n\nIn terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.\n\nFrom a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.\n\nI met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.\n\nIn terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.\n\nThe Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.","answerHtml":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.
In terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.
From a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.
I met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.
In terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.
The Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054696%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260942"}},{"id":"260941","reference":"AQW 54695/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-23","answerBy":"2016-03-09","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail (i) whether wedding car companies were included in the initial consultation for the Taxis Act (NI) 2008; (ii) the nature of any consultation with wedding car companies that took place; and (iii) what communication his Department has had with wedding car companies since the initial consultation.","answerText":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.\n\nIn terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.\n\nFrom a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.\n\nI met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.\n\nIn terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.\n\nThe Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.","answerHtml":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.
In terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.
From a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.
I met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.
In terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.
The Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054695%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260941"}},{"id":"260940","reference":"AQW 54694/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-23","answerBy":"2016-03-09","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for his assessment of the impact that the Taxis Act (NI) 2008 will have on wedding car companies.","answerText":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.\n\nIn terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.\n\nFrom a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.\n\nI met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.\n\nIn terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.\n\nThe Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.","answerHtml":"The Taxis Act (the Act) came into force in April 2008, following the passage of the Taxis Bill through the Assembly legislative process and was subsequently passed by the Assembly unopposed. This was a continuation of wedding cars being regulated under the Road Traffic (Northern Ireland) Order 1981, which already required the vehicles and drivers to be licensed. The key rationale for the sector being regulated is because wedding cars are vehicles which carry passengers for hire or reward in the course of their business, as do taxis. I accept that due to the nature of the wedding car industry the frequency of carrying passengers for hire and reward is less than that of a traditional taxi. However the safety of passengers is no less important than a customer in a taxi and for that reason it was decided they should be included in the Taxis Act, a decision endorsed by the Environment Committee during the Committee stage of the Bill.
In terms of impact, cars used solely for weddings are exempt from Taxi Operator Licensing. Drivers are exempt from wearing taxi driver badges. Vehicles are exempt from taxi metering, roof signs and external taxi licence plates. Further, the new Taxi Licence Regulations mean that there are many more types of vehicles which can be used as wedding cars, as under the old regime you could not use a 2 door or soft top (convertible) vehicle as a wedding car. This is an issue the wedding car industry has been raising with the Department for many years and I am glad to be able to finally resolve it.
From a legislative perspective my Department has done all it can, within the scope of the existing primary legislation. Removing wedding cars from the Taxis Act will require consultation and a Primary legislative amendment. The Act does not include powers to make exemptions from either taxi vehicle or driver licensing requirements.
I met with representatives from the Wedding Car industry recently and they expressed concerns about the current arrangements which they see as too onerous and disproportionate for their industry. In particular I have listened to their concerns around new drivers to the industry that they feel have been adversely impacted by the new Taxi Driver Licence Regulations. I have asked my officials to look at how we can provide assistance and reassurance to the industry as they transition from the current regime to the new regime coming into force in May 2016. I also indicated that in line with the full implementation of all Primary legislation the Taxis Act will be subject to review and I would expect that the new Minister of the Department for Infrastructure would instigate this process as quickly as possible in the next Assembly mandate. As part of this review I would expect to see consultation on whether wedding cars should remain within the scope of the legislation or removed and licensed in a more proportionate way.
In terms of engagement with the sector, the consultations undertaken 2005 and 2006 (the topic was The Regulation of Taxis and Private Hire Vehicles 2005) were responded to by some wedding car operators. At that time it was argued by those respondents that the Department should do more to recognise the needs of wedding car providers and to prosecute the many unlicensed operators in this sector. This position was also expressed during the 13 week Consideration Stage of the Taxis Bill to the Environment Committee. Since that time I and my officials have had a number of meetings with representatives of the Wedding Car Industry to listen to their concerns and on occasions they have been accompanied by elected representatives.
The Department has also consulted on a series of issues including taxi licensing, special occasion and novelty vehicles and taxi operator licensing during which all taxi drivers and operators were asked for their views on how the Department were implementing the Act.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054694%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260940"}},{"id":"260939","reference":"AQW 54693/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-23","answerBy":"2016-02-26","answered":"2016-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when he will confirm the North East Area Plan for primary and post-primary schools; (ii) when he will inform primary and post-primary schools of the outcome; and (iii) whether it will be in place for the 2016-17 school year.","answerText":"In line with the Area Planning cycle, I have commissioned the Education Authority (EA), working in conjunction with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), and in discussion with sectoral support bodies to produce three separate regional plans; one for primary schools, one for post-primary schools and one for special schools. The Plans will cover the primary and post-primary sectors over three financial years with the next planning period commencing April 2017 through to March 2020.\n\nThe draft Area Plans along with the Year One Annual Action Plans are due to be submitted to the Department in July 2016. When the Department has endorsed the Plans, the EA will consult on them in the autumn.","answerHtml":"In line with the Area Planning cycle, I have commissioned the Education Authority (EA), working in conjunction with the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS), and in discussion with sectoral support bodies to produce three separate regional plans; one for primary schools, one for post-primary schools and one for special schools. The Plans will cover the primary and post-primary sectors over three financial years with the next planning period commencing April 2017 through to March 2020.
The draft Area Plans along with the Year One Annual Action Plans are due to be submitted to the Department in July 2016. When the Department has endorsed the Plans, the EA will consult on them in the autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054693%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260939","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260939"}},{"id":"260660","reference":"AQW 54628/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-22","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail any plans or proposals his Department has in conjunction with local councils to reduce the time it takes to approve planning applications.","answerText":"In order to monitor performance of councils with regard to their planning functions, three statutory planning indicators for councils were introduced on 1 April 2015. These cover the processing of local and major applications and enforcement cases. The first quarterly planning statistics bulletin, which was published in November 2015, highlighted performance of councils against the three statutory planning indicators for the first three months of the new two-tier planning system (April – June 2015).\n\nWhile neither the major nor local indicators were met, these results have to be seen in context of the new two-tier system bedding-in. The creation of the councils and the transfer of planning functions represented a major challenge to both central and local government. Not only were the new 11 councils being established, but also a significantly reformed planning system was being introduced, with new processes for development management, local development plans, enforcement and appeals. In addition, many of the applications processed during this period were applications received by the Department during the months leading up to the transfer to councils, and these would undoubtedly have had an adverse impact upon processing times. It will still take some time for these legacy applications to be processed through the system. While noting that some elements of performance slipped, I was pleased to note that other elements, such as the processing of enforcement cases and the determining of applications over 1 year old, had improved.\n\nThere are no plans to change the statutory indicators and standards for 2016/17 as the system is still bedding-in. I am confident that the immense amount of work undertaken by the councils in integrating their new planning functions will start to bear fruit in the coming months.\n\nI believe there is a collective responsibility between local and central government to ensure there is an effective planning system. My Department is working with councils, through various engagement channels such as the Ministerial Planning Group (chaired by me) and the Strategic Planning Group (chaired by the Chief Planner), to drive forward continuous improvement and best practice.\n\nMy Department is also currently taking forward work with councils on the introduction of a new planning performance framework in order to broaden the range of planning indicators (beyond the three statutory indicators).","answerHtml":"In order to monitor performance of councils with regard to their planning functions, three statutory planning indicators for councils were introduced on 1 April 2015. These cover the processing of local and major applications and enforcement cases. The first quarterly planning statistics bulletin, which was published in November 2015, highlighted performance of councils against the three statutory planning indicators for the first three months of the new two-tier planning system (April – June 2015).
While neither the major nor local indicators were met, these results have to be seen in context of the new two-tier system bedding-in. The creation of the councils and the transfer of planning functions represented a major challenge to both central and local government. Not only were the new 11 councils being established, but also a significantly reformed planning system was being introduced, with new processes for development management, local development plans, enforcement and appeals. In addition, many of the applications processed during this period were applications received by the Department during the months leading up to the transfer to councils, and these would undoubtedly have had an adverse impact upon processing times. It will still take some time for these legacy applications to be processed through the system. While noting that some elements of performance slipped, I was pleased to note that other elements, such as the processing of enforcement cases and the determining of applications over 1 year old, had improved.
There are no plans to change the statutory indicators and standards for 2016/17 as the system is still bedding-in. I am confident that the immense amount of work undertaken by the councils in integrating their new planning functions will start to bear fruit in the coming months.
I believe there is a collective responsibility between local and central government to ensure there is an effective planning system. My Department is working with councils, through various engagement channels such as the Ministerial Planning Group (chaired by me) and the Strategic Planning Group (chaired by the Chief Planner), to drive forward continuous improvement and best practice.
My Department is also currently taking forward work with councils on the introduction of a new planning performance framework in order to broaden the range of planning indicators (beyond the three statutory indicators).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054628%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260660","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260660"}},{"id":"260659","reference":"AQW 54627/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-22","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail the average time it takes to process and approve a planning application locally compared to the the time it takes to process in England; and for his assessment of these timeframes.","answerText":"Following the transfer of planning responsibilities to local government on 1 April 2015, my Department introduced three statutory planning performance indicators for councils. These cover the processing of local and major applications and enforcement cases. The first quarterly planning statistics bulletin, which was published in November 2015, highlighted performance of councils against the three statutory planning indicators for the first three months of the new two-tier planning system (April – June 2015). This showed that the average processing times to decide major applications was 37.6 weeks across all councils, and 19 weeks to decide local applications.\n\nThe time spent processing a planning application in NI cannot be directly compared to the time spent in England, or other UK jurisdictions, as they all have different systems in relation to processes such as validation, neighbour notification and advertising etc. Planning performance in England is officially reported in a way that reflects their own particular system and processing targets and hence is not comparable with NI figures.","answerHtml":"Following the transfer of planning responsibilities to local government on 1 April 2015, my Department introduced three statutory planning performance indicators for councils. These cover the processing of local and major applications and enforcement cases. The first quarterly planning statistics bulletin, which was published in November 2015, highlighted performance of councils against the three statutory planning indicators for the first three months of the new two-tier planning system (April – June 2015). This showed that the average processing times to decide major applications was 37.6 weeks across all councils, and 19 weeks to decide local applications.
The time spent processing a planning application in NI cannot be directly compared to the time spent in England, or other UK jurisdictions, as they all have different systems in relation to processes such as validation, neighbour notification and advertising etc. Planning performance in England is officially reported in a way that reflects their own particular system and processing targets and hence is not comparable with NI figures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054627%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260659"}},{"id":"260623","reference":"AQW 54591/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-22","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment how his Department has consulted with relevant stakeholders to assess the need for greater efficiency in the planning process.","answerText":"Prior to the transfer of planning functions to the new 11 councils on 1 April 2015, my Department engaged in an extensive period of consultation with relevant stakeholders regarding reform of the planning system and the transfer of powers. One of the key purposes of the reform measures was to increase efficiency in the planning system.\n\nResponsibility for most planning functions now rests with district councils. My Department supports councils through various engagement channels such as a Ministerial Planning Group, which I chair and is attended by chief executives, directors and heads of planning, and a Strategic Planning Group, chaired by the Chief Planner and attended by heads of planning. The purpose of these groups is to allow central and local government to come together to discuss planning issues and to identify solutions, as well as to drive forward continuous improvement and best practice. Below these groups Departmental staff attended various planning-related groups within the councils, such as development management, enforcement and local development plan working groups.\n\nIn bringing forward future policy and legislative changes, the Department will consult with all relevant stakeholders. Departmental officials also attend numerous public events, seminars and conferences attended by various stakeholders where performance of the planning system is discussed and debated.\n\nMy Department recognises the need to continue to support district councils to ensure the effective operation of the new two tier planning system.","answerHtml":"Prior to the transfer of planning functions to the new 11 councils on 1 April 2015, my Department engaged in an extensive period of consultation with relevant stakeholders regarding reform of the planning system and the transfer of powers. One of the key purposes of the reform measures was to increase efficiency in the planning system.
Responsibility for most planning functions now rests with district councils. My Department supports councils through various engagement channels such as a Ministerial Planning Group, which I chair and is attended by chief executives, directors and heads of planning, and a Strategic Planning Group, chaired by the Chief Planner and attended by heads of planning. The purpose of these groups is to allow central and local government to come together to discuss planning issues and to identify solutions, as well as to drive forward continuous improvement and best practice. Below these groups Departmental staff attended various planning-related groups within the councils, such as development management, enforcement and local development plan working groups.
In bringing forward future policy and legislative changes, the Department will consult with all relevant stakeholders. Departmental officials also attend numerous public events, seminars and conferences attended by various stakeholders where performance of the planning system is discussed and debated.
My Department recognises the need to continue to support district councils to ensure the effective operation of the new two tier planning system.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054591%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260623","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260623"}},{"id":"260622","reference":"AQW 54590/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-22","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how additional funding in 2016-17 for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service for will be spent.","answerText":"The financial planning process within my Department for 2016/17 is ongoing and decisions have not yet been taken on the budget position for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.","answerHtml":"The financial planning process within my Department for 2016/17 is ongoing and decisions have not yet been taken on the budget position for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054590%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260622","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260622"}},{"id":"260621","reference":"AQW 54589/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-22","answerBy":"2016-03-08","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any changes to the (i) staffing levels in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service; (ii) ambulance fleet in the (a) Northern and (b) Western Health and Social Care Trusts in 2015-16; and to detail any plans or proposals for further increases.","answerText":"The table below indicates the changes in staffing levels in 2015/16:\n\nWTE\tNorthern Division\tWestern Division\nApril\n2015\tFebruary 2016\tApril\n2015\tFebruary 2016\nAmbulance Care Attendant (ACA) posts\t63.5\t62.5\t48\t47\nACAs in post\t58.5\t63\t42\t46\nEmergency Medical Technician (EMT) posts\t75\t75\t67\t66\nEMTs in post\t46\t69\t55\t63\nParamedic posts\t89\t100\t91\t91\nParamedics in post\t99\t97\t83\t82\nSupervisor posts\t17\t8\t-\t-\nSupervisors in post\t8\t8\t-\t-\n\nThere have been no changes to the number of fleet vehicles, although a number of vehicles have been replaced. The table below shows the number of vehicles in each division:\n\nNorthern Division\tWestern Division\nA&E Ambulances\t34\t24\nRapid Response Vehicles\t14\t12\nPatient Care Service Vehicles\t30\t24\nSupport Vehicles\t-\t3\n\nThe Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) plans to increase staffing levels in 2016/17 in the Northern Division through the additional funding allocated by my Department to manage increasing demand due to demographic growth. The number and location of the additional personnel is currently being considered by the NIAS.","answerHtml":"The table below indicates the changes in staffing levels in 2015/16:
| WTE | Northern Division | Western Division | ||
| April 2015 | February 2016 | April 2015 | February 2016 | |
| Ambulance Care Attendant (ACA) posts | 63.5 | 62.5 | 48 | 47 |
| ACAs in post | 58.5 | 63 | 42 | 46 |
| Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) posts | 75 | 75 | 67 | 66 |
| EMTs in post | 46 | 69 | 55 | 63 |
| Paramedic posts | 89 | 100 | 91 | 91 |
| Paramedics in post | 99 | 97 | 83 | 82 |
| Supervisor posts | 17 | 8 | - | - |
| Supervisors in post | 8 | 8 | - | - |
There have been no changes to the number of fleet vehicles, although a number of vehicles have been replaced. The table below shows the number of vehicles in each division:
| Northern Division | Western Division | |
| A&E Ambulances | 34 | 24 |
| Rapid Response Vehicles | 14 | 12 |
| Patient Care Service Vehicles | 30 | 24 |
| Support Vehicles | - | 3 |
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) plans to increase staffing levels in 2016/17 in the Northern Division through the additional funding allocated by my Department to manage increasing demand due to demographic growth. The number and location of the additional personnel is currently being considered by the NIAS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054589%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260621","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260621"}},{"id":"260389","reference":"AQW 54531/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-19","answerBy":"2016-02-25","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the review of Multiple Sclerosis Neurological Services.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board and Public Health Agency are currently conducting an assessment of developments to improve services for people with Multiple Sclerosis. This work is on-going and will help inform service commissioning decisions for 2016/17 and beyond.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board and Public Health Agency are currently conducting an assessment of developments to improve services for people with Multiple Sclerosis. This work is on-going and will help inform service commissioning decisions for 2016/17 and beyond.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054531%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260389","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260389"}},{"id":"260388","reference":"AQW 54530/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-19","answerBy":"2016-03-07","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of local GP practices that currently have GP vacancies waiting to be filled, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on the number of vacant GP posts is not available. GPs are independent contractors who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors, GPs are responsible for identifying and recruiting the number of GPs and other staff required to deliver those services.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of vacant GP posts is not available. GPs are independent contractors who contract with the Health and Social Care Board to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors, GPs are responsible for identifying and recruiting the number of GPs and other staff required to deliver those services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054530%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260388"}},{"id":"260387","reference":"AQW 54529/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-19","answerBy":"2016-03-07","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) the number of locum GPs; and (ii) the current demand for locums in Northern Ireland; and (ii) to detail how his Department is addressing the current barriers facing GP practices that require locum Doctors to help manage their workload, yet have been unable to meet this requirement because of a shortage of locums.","answerText":"There are 429 locum GPs registered on the Primary Medical Services Performers List.\n\nGP practices, as independent contractors, are responsible for engaging locums as required. My Department does not therefore hold information on current demand. However I am aware of difficulties being experienced by practices in securing locum cover, and a number of actions have been taken to try to address these challenges. I recently announced an investment of £1.2m per year to create an additional 20 GP training places. This is the largest investment in GP training for more than ten years and will increase the number of GP trainees to 85 per year from August 2016. In addition, as part of an investment package of up to £5.1m agreed for General Medical Services in 2015/16, new schemes have been introduced aimed at encouraging GPs who have left practice in Northern Ireland to return and supporting the existing GP workforce to remain in practice.\n\nAs well as growing the GP workforce, steps have also been taken to address the workload pressures on GPs and build the general practice team. For example, in December last year I announced a five year initiative which will see investment of £2.55m in 2016/17, rising to £14m per year in 2020/21, to provide close to 300 pharmacists to work alongside GPs in practices. I have also provided funding of £190,000 in 2015/16 to support GP practices working together as Federations to improve the resilience of GP-led services.\n\nTo ensure that people in Northern Ireland can continue to access high quality GP-led care, I have established a working group to consider the actions needed to safeguard the sustainability of GP services into the future. I expect to receive the working group’s report shortly and will give careful consideration to its findings and recommendations.","answerHtml":"There are 429 locum GPs registered on the Primary Medical Services Performers List.
GP practices, as independent contractors, are responsible for engaging locums as required. My Department does not therefore hold information on current demand. However I am aware of difficulties being experienced by practices in securing locum cover, and a number of actions have been taken to try to address these challenges. I recently announced an investment of £1.2m per year to create an additional 20 GP training places. This is the largest investment in GP training for more than ten years and will increase the number of GP trainees to 85 per year from August 2016. In addition, as part of an investment package of up to £5.1m agreed for General Medical Services in 2015/16, new schemes have been introduced aimed at encouraging GPs who have left practice in Northern Ireland to return and supporting the existing GP workforce to remain in practice.
As well as growing the GP workforce, steps have also been taken to address the workload pressures on GPs and build the general practice team. For example, in December last year I announced a five year initiative which will see investment of £2.55m in 2016/17, rising to £14m per year in 2020/21, to provide close to 300 pharmacists to work alongside GPs in practices. I have also provided funding of £190,000 in 2015/16 to support GP practices working together as Federations to improve the resilience of GP-led services.
To ensure that people in Northern Ireland can continue to access high quality GP-led care, I have established a working group to consider the actions needed to safeguard the sustainability of GP services into the future. I expect to receive the working group’s report shortly and will give careful consideration to its findings and recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054529%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260387","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260387"}},{"id":"260386","reference":"AQW 54528/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-19","answerBy":"2016-03-07","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the annual rate of retirement for local GPs; and for his assessment of whether the increase in GP training places is sufficient to mitigate this rate.","answerText":"The annual rate of retirement for local GPs is not available. In 2014 24.8% of GPs in Northern Ireland were aged over 55.\n\nThe additional 20 annual GP training places is only one of a range of initiatives which I have recently announced and which I consider will ease the work pressures on GPs and thereby encourage individuals to continue to work in Primary Care. These include a five-year investment initiative that will put close to 300 pharmacists in GP practices by 2021; and funding of £300,000 during 2015/16 to help retain the existing GP workforce and to encourage GPs who have left practice to return. I have also established a Departmental working group to consider the delivery of GP-led Primary Care services.","answerHtml":"The annual rate of retirement for local GPs is not available. In 2014 24.8% of GPs in Northern Ireland were aged over 55.
The additional 20 annual GP training places is only one of a range of initiatives which I have recently announced and which I consider will ease the work pressures on GPs and thereby encourage individuals to continue to work in Primary Care. These include a five-year investment initiative that will put close to 300 pharmacists in GP practices by 2021; and funding of £300,000 during 2015/16 to help retain the existing GP workforce and to encourage GPs who have left practice to return. I have also established a Departmental working group to consider the delivery of GP-led Primary Care services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054528%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260386","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260386"}},{"id":"260385","reference":"AQW 54527/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-19","answerBy":"2016-03-07","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of times Fire Stations in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Limavady; (iii) Portrush; (iv) Portstewart; (v) Kilrea; and (vi) Dungiven have not met their Gartan availability target times in the last two years.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service introduced the GARTAN Electronic Retained Availability system in April 2014. The table below details the number of identified breaches of Retained Duty System availability targets at Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush, Portstewart, Kilrea and Dungiven Stations during the period April 2014 to January 2016.\n\nStation\t1st Appliance\t2nd Appliance\tTotal\nColeraine\t18\t470\t488\nLimavady\t495\t1,428\t1,923\nPortrush\t14\t726\t740\nPortstewart\t148\t1,345\t1,493\n*Kilrea\t263\tN/A\t263\n*Dungiven\t120\tN/A\t120\n\n* Station with one appliance\n\nNIFRS’ Regional Control Centre continually monitors Retained availability. Where there is inadequate Retained availability which may result in a failure to respond, crews are mobilised immediately from neighbouring Stations.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service introduced the GARTAN Electronic Retained Availability system in April 2014. The table below details the number of identified breaches of Retained Duty System availability targets at Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush, Portstewart, Kilrea and Dungiven Stations during the period April 2014 to January 2016.
| Station | 1st Appliance | 2nd Appliance | Total |
| Coleraine | 18 | 470 | 488 |
| Limavady | 495 | 1,428 | 1,923 |
| Portrush | 14 | 726 | 740 |
| Portstewart | 148 | 1,345 | 1,493 |
| *Kilrea | 263 | N/A | 263 |
| *Dungiven | 120 | N/A | 120 |
* Station with one appliance
NIFRS’ Regional Control Centre continually monitors Retained availability. Where there is inadequate Retained availability which may result in a failure to respond, crews are mobilised immediately from neighbouring Stations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054527%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260385","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260385"}},{"id":"260326","reference":"AQW 54497/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-18","answerBy":"2016-03-04","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any plans or proposals his Department has to invest in local outpatient neurology services.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care (HSC) Board is working with a Neurology Modernisation Steering Group, involving the Public Health Agency, HSC Trusts, senior clinicians and the chair of the Service User Reference Group, to develop actions to make more effective use of the resources already invested and ensure that any future investment is cost-effective. In the past year: the Western and Belfast Trusts have each appointed an additional Consultant; a further Consultant post is funded for the Northern Trust but remains vacant as recruitment has proved unsuccessful to date; and, an additional Nurse Specialist is also funded in the Western Trust and is being recruited at present.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care (HSC) Board is working with a Neurology Modernisation Steering Group, involving the Public Health Agency, HSC Trusts, senior clinicians and the chair of the Service User Reference Group, to develop actions to make more effective use of the resources already invested and ensure that any future investment is cost-effective. In the past year: the Western and Belfast Trusts have each appointed an additional Consultant; a further Consultant post is funded for the Northern Trust but remains vacant as recruitment has proved unsuccessful to date; and, an additional Nurse Specialist is also funded in the Western Trust and is being recruited at present.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054497%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260326","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260326"}},{"id":"260309","reference":"AQW 54480/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-18","answerBy":"2016-03-04","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of Neurologists currently in post in each Health and Social Care Trust; and changes to the (i) the number of patients with Multiple Sclerosis; and (ii) the number of Neurologists in post in the (a) Northern; and (b) Western Health and Social Care Trusts, in the last 5 years.","answerText":"The headcount and whole-time equivalent number (WTE) of neurologists currently in post in each HSC Trust is shown in the table below.\n\nHSC Trust\tHeadcount\tWTE\nBelfast\t12\t10.76\nNorthern*\t1\t1.0\nSouth Eastern\t2\t1.7\nSouthern\t2\t2.0\nWestern\t3\t2.95\n\n*Neurology services are also provided to the Northern Trust through an Out Reach Service supplied by Belfast Trust consultants.\n\nInformation on the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust is not available. Information, however, is available on the number of people receiving drug treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of the month.\n\nThe number of people receiving drug treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (including those patients on suspension of treatment) at the end of January in each of the last four years, the longest period for which information is readily available, is shown in the table below. This data is broken down by Trust of Residence.\n\nNumber of patients on drug treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at 31st January in each of the last 4 years\n\nHSC Trust of Residence\tNo. of patients on Multiple Sclerosis drug treatment\n31st January 2013\t31st January 2014\t31st January 2015\t31st January 2016\nBelfast\t222\t246\t265\t328\nNorthern\t402\t421\t449\t504\nSouth Eastern\t311\t328\t362\t426\nSouthern\t265\t274\t297\t346\nWestern\t225\t244\t278\t315\nNorthern Ireland\t1,425\t1,513\t1,651\t1,919\n\nThe headcount and whole-time equivalent number of neurologists employed by the Northern and Western Trusts at February in each of the preceding four years is shown in the table below.\n\nYear\tNorthern HSCT*\tWestern HSCT\nHeadcount\tWTE\tHeadcount\tWTE\n2014\t1\t1.0\t2\t2.0\n2013\t1\t1.0\t2\t2.0\n2012\t1\t1.0\t2\t2.0\n2011\t1\t1.0\t2\t2.0","answerHtml":"The headcount and whole-time equivalent number (WTE) of neurologists currently in post in each HSC Trust is shown in the table below.
| HSC Trust | Headcount | WTE |
| Belfast | 12 | 10.76 |
| Northern* | 1 | 1.0 |
| South Eastern | 2 | 1.7 |
| Southern | 2 | 2.0 |
| Western | 3 | 2.95 |
*Neurology services are also provided to the Northern Trust through an Out Reach Service supplied by Belfast Trust consultants.
Information on the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust is not available. Information, however, is available on the number of people receiving drug treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of the month.
The number of people receiving drug treatment for Multiple Sclerosis (including those patients on suspension of treatment) at the end of January in each of the last four years, the longest period for which information is readily available, is shown in the table below. This data is broken down by Trust of Residence.
Number of patients on drug treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at 31st January in each of the last 4 years
| HSC Trust of Residence | No. of patients on Multiple Sclerosis drug treatment | |||
| 31st January 2013 | 31st January 2014 | 31st January 2015 | 31st January 2016 | |
| Belfast | 222 | 246 | 265 | 328 |
| Northern | 402 | 421 | 449 | 504 |
| South Eastern | 311 | 328 | 362 | 426 |
| Southern | 265 | 274 | 297 | 346 |
| Western | 225 | 244 | 278 | 315 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,425 | 1,513 | 1,651 | 1,919 |
The headcount and whole-time equivalent number of neurologists employed by the Northern and Western Trusts at February in each of the preceding four years is shown in the table below.
| Year | Northern HSCT* | Western HSCT | ||
| Headcount | WTE | Headcount | WTE | |
| 2014 | 1 | 1.0 | 2 | 2.0 |
| 2013 | 1 | 1.0 | 2 | 2.0 |
| 2012 | 1 | 1.0 | 2 | 2.0 |
| 2011 | 1 | 1.0 | 2 | 2.0 |
Reason for referral, or confirmed diagnosis, is not collected for patients waiting for a first consultant-led appointment. Therefore it is not possible to separately identify patients with Multiple Sclerosis waiting for a first appointment with a consultant neurologist.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054479%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260308","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260308"}},{"id":"260302","reference":"AQW 54473/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-18","answerBy":"2016-03-04","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) to detail any communication he has had with Garvagh Care Home since the announcement of its closure; (ii) what support his Department has provided to families and staff on the resettlement of residents; and (iii) for an update on the resettlement of residents in alternative facilities.","answerText":"Officials in the Health and Social Care Board have had detailed discussions with Four Seasons Health Care about the closures of the Four Seasons care homes, including Garvagh.\n\nMy Department established a joint working group with the Health and Social Care Board, the Health and Social Care Trusts and the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority to monitor developments and oversee the resettlement of the residents affected by the closure; within Trusts multi disciplinary teams were set up to work through the detail of all the moves, to identify new placements and to manage the terms of the moves.\n\nAs at 19 February there were 12 residents remaining in Garvagh Care Home. There were no residents remaining in the other homes affected by the closures.","answerHtml":"Officials in the Health and Social Care Board have had detailed discussions with Four Seasons Health Care about the closures of the Four Seasons care homes, including Garvagh.
My Department established a joint working group with the Health and Social Care Board, the Health and Social Care Trusts and the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority to monitor developments and oversee the resettlement of the residents affected by the closure; within Trusts multi disciplinary teams were set up to work through the detail of all the moves, to identify new placements and to manage the terms of the moves.
As at 19 February there were 12 residents remaining in Garvagh Care Home. There were no residents remaining in the other homes affected by the closures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054473%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260302","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260302"}},{"id":"260070","reference":"AQW 54414/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-17","answerBy":"2016-03-03","answered":"2016-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on any plans or proposals to amend rates payments by charities.","answerText":"As the Member is aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the non-domestic rating system. The treatment of charity shops was an issue that various business organisations, district councils and many others commented on during the related consultation. One of the points identified through that process is the fact that we are the only part of the UK that fully exempts virtually all charity shops. In England, Wales and Scotland the majority pay 20% rates.\n\nThis is a sensitive matter and my officials are now in the process of thoroughly analysing the responses on this issue, alongside all the other issues that emerged from the consultation.\n\nAny policy outcomes from the review on this subject, however, will be a matter for the new Executive in the next mandate and I can confirm that I will not be changing the policy in the meantime.\n\nI have already met with Seamus McAleavey of NICVA and Robin Osterley from the Charity Retail Association and have another meeting with NICVA scheduled for 29 February.","answerHtml":"As the Member is aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the non-domestic rating system. The treatment of charity shops was an issue that various business organisations, district councils and many others commented on during the related consultation. One of the points identified through that process is the fact that we are the only part of the UK that fully exempts virtually all charity shops. In England, Wales and Scotland the majority pay 20% rates.
This is a sensitive matter and my officials are now in the process of thoroughly analysing the responses on this issue, alongside all the other issues that emerged from the consultation.
Any policy outcomes from the review on this subject, however, will be a matter for the new Executive in the next mandate and I can confirm that I will not be changing the policy in the meantime.
I have already met with Seamus McAleavey of NICVA and Robin Osterley from the Charity Retail Association and have another meeting with NICVA scheduled for 29 February.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054414%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260070"}},{"id":"260069","reference":"AQW 54413/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-17","answerBy":"2016-03-03","answered":"2016-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he has met with stakeholders in the Charity sector to discuss their concerns regarding proposed changes to the rates paid by charities.","answerText":"As the Member is aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the non-domestic rating system. The treatment of charity shops was an issue that various business organisations, district councils and many others commented on during the related consultation. One of the points identified through that process is the fact that we are the only part of the UK that fully exempts virtually all charity shops. In England, Wales and Scotland the majority pay 20% rates.\n\nThis is a sensitive matter and my officials are now in the process of thoroughly analysing the responses on this issue, alongside all the other issues that emerged from the consultation.\n\nAny policy outcomes from the review on this subject, however, will be a matter for the new Executive in the next mandate and I can confirm that I will not be changing the policy in the meantime.\n\nI have already met with Seamus McAleavey of NICVA and Robin Osterley from the Charity Retail Association and have another meeting with NICVA scheduled for 29 February.","answerHtml":"As the Member is aware, my Department is currently undertaking a review of the non-domestic rating system. The treatment of charity shops was an issue that various business organisations, district councils and many others commented on during the related consultation. One of the points identified through that process is the fact that we are the only part of the UK that fully exempts virtually all charity shops. In England, Wales and Scotland the majority pay 20% rates.
This is a sensitive matter and my officials are now in the process of thoroughly analysing the responses on this issue, alongside all the other issues that emerged from the consultation.
Any policy outcomes from the review on this subject, however, will be a matter for the new Executive in the next mandate and I can confirm that I will not be changing the policy in the meantime.
I have already met with Seamus McAleavey of NICVA and Robin Osterley from the Charity Retail Association and have another meeting with NICVA scheduled for 29 February.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054413%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260069","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260069"}},{"id":"260068","reference":"AQW 54412/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-17","answerBy":"2016-03-03","answered":"2016-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 53958/11-16, to detail (i) the criteria his Department will use to decide which projects continue to receive funding; and (ii) any plans his Department has to provide alternative support to projects that no longer receive funding.","answerText":"My Department will make decisions regarding each application for funding for Neighbourhood Renewal projects thorough an assessment and appraisal processes in line with the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation and Managing Public Money NI. This process includes an assessment of how projects effectively demonstrate they meet the objectives of the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. Continued support for projects will only be made following the successful outcome of this assessment and appraisal process.\n\nMy Department presently has no plans to provide alternative support to projects that no longer receive funding following this process.","answerHtml":"My Department will make decisions regarding each application for funding for Neighbourhood Renewal projects thorough an assessment and appraisal processes in line with the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation and Managing Public Money NI. This process includes an assessment of how projects effectively demonstrate they meet the objectives of the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. Continued support for projects will only be made following the successful outcome of this assessment and appraisal process.
My Department presently has no plans to provide alternative support to projects that no longer receive funding following this process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054412%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260068","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260068"}},{"id":"260067","reference":"AQW 54411/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-17","answerBy":"2016-03-03","answered":"2016-03-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 53958/11-16, to detail when groups can expect to hear of the outcome regarding funding for the continuation of their projects.","answerText":"As previously advised the decisions on which Neighbourhood Renewal projects will continue to be supported during 2016-17 will be made through an exercise to determine which projects most effectively demonstrate they meet the objectives of the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. As we approach the beginning of the new financial year I appreciate the concerns that groups have whilst this process is ongoing. I can give assurance that my Officials are working to progress this as quickly as possible and will advise groups of the outcome of the process when completed.","answerHtml":"As previously advised the decisions on which Neighbourhood Renewal projects will continue to be supported during 2016-17 will be made through an exercise to determine which projects most effectively demonstrate they meet the objectives of the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. As we approach the beginning of the new financial year I appreciate the concerns that groups have whilst this process is ongoing. I can give assurance that my Officials are working to progress this as quickly as possible and will advise groups of the outcome of the process when completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054411%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260067","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260067"}},{"id":"260066","reference":"AQW 54410/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-17","answerBy":"2016-03-03","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the strategic approach his Department is taking to meet future demand for nurses; and (ii) whether this planning includes nurses in both the statutory and independent sectors.","answerText":"A Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan has been completed by my Department and is currently being considered by officials. It makes a series of recommendations including the need for a strategic approach to the future supply and demand of nursing and to making the Health and Social Care sector in Northern Ireland an “Employer of Choice”. The Plan also recommends that further examination is undertaken of the nursing workforce in the independent sector as it has proven difficult to collate figures. The Health and Social Care Board is currently in the process of carrying out this further work.","answerHtml":"A Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan has been completed by my Department and is currently being considered by officials. It makes a series of recommendations including the need for a strategic approach to the future supply and demand of nursing and to making the Health and Social Care sector in Northern Ireland an “Employer of Choice”. The Plan also recommends that further examination is undertaken of the nursing workforce in the independent sector as it has proven difficult to collate figures. The Health and Social Care Board is currently in the process of carrying out this further work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054410%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=260066","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=260066"}},{"id":"259865","reference":"AQW 54362/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-16","answerBy":"2016-03-02","answered":"2016-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many businesses in the Causeway Coast and Glens area applied to the broadband voucher scheme in 2015 but did not receive a voucher because the funding had run out.","answerText":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department does not therefore hold the information requested.","answerHtml":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department does not therefore hold the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054362%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259865"}},{"id":"259863","reference":"AQW 54360/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-16","answerBy":"2016-03-02","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the Pathways Fund will provide services for children up to three years of age from April 2016.","answerText":"The Pathway Fund which will replace the Early Years Fund from 1 April 2016, will be open to voluntary and community providers or facilitators of registered Early Years education and learning provision (i.e. for children aged 0-4 years) such as;\n\nRegistered Sessional Daycare settings (including Out of Schools, Summer Schemes, Playgroups, crèches);\n\nRegistered Full Daycare settings (Day Nurseries);\n\nRegistered Childminders.","answerHtml":"The Pathway Fund which will replace the Early Years Fund from 1 April 2016, will be open to voluntary and community providers or facilitators of registered Early Years education and learning provision (i.e. for children aged 0-4 years) such as;
Registered Sessional Daycare settings (including Out of Schools, Summer Schemes, Playgroups, crèches);
Registered Full Daycare settings (Day Nurseries);
Registered Childminders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054360%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259863"}},{"id":"259861","reference":"AQW 54358/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-16","answerBy":"2016-03-02","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current provision of specialist Multiple Sclerosis nurses within the Causeway Hospital; and to detail how provision has changed in the last three years to meet the demand for this service.","answerText":"In January 2012 the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust appointed a 0.5 wte MS Specialist Nurse located in the Route Complex, Ballymoney. This post covers the Northern Trust area. The Belfast HSC Trust is commissioned to provide a Regional MS Specialist Service. This service includes:\n\nconducting reviews and commencing patients on disease modifying drugs as prescribed by the neurologist; provision of drug infusions at the Royal Victoria Hospital; and, a Regional helpline for people with MS.","answerHtml":"In January 2012 the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust appointed a 0.5 wte MS Specialist Nurse located in the Route Complex, Ballymoney. This post covers the Northern Trust area. The Belfast HSC Trust is commissioned to provide a Regional MS Specialist Service. This service includes:
conducting reviews and commencing patients on disease modifying drugs as prescribed by the neurologist; provision of drug infusions at the Royal Victoria Hospital; and, a Regional helpline for people with MS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054358%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259861"}},{"id":"259860","reference":"AQW 54357/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-16","answerBy":"2016-03-02","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how his Department is improving health provision for people living with Multiple Sclerosis.","answerText":"Work is continuing by the Health and Social Care Board with a range of stakeholders across Northern Ireland to agree a service specification for MS services, consistent with NICE guidelines, towards making best use of current service capacity and agreeing priorities for development, subject to the availability of resources, in the coming years.","answerHtml":"Work is continuing by the Health and Social Care Board with a range of stakeholders across Northern Ireland to agree a service specification for MS services, consistent with NICE guidelines, towards making best use of current service capacity and agreeing priorities for development, subject to the availability of resources, in the coming years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054357%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259860","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259860"}},{"id":"259589","reference":"AQW 54296/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-15","answerBy":"2016-03-01","answered":"2016-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development when the broadband voucher scheme will open for applications.","answerText":"The broadband Voucher Scheme will not open for further applications. The scheme ran out of money before Christmas leaving some 170 rural business applicants unable to benefit from a voucher for up to £3,000 towards the cost of installation of a broadband service. The funding of £0.5m I announced on 12th February 2016 will allow the rural businesses that had applied to the scheme but missed out due to lack of funding to receive their vouchers.","answerHtml":"The broadband Voucher Scheme will not open for further applications. The scheme ran out of money before Christmas leaving some 170 rural business applicants unable to benefit from a voucher for up to £3,000 towards the cost of installation of a broadband service. The funding of £0.5m I announced on 12th February 2016 will allow the rural businesses that had applied to the scheme but missed out due to lack of funding to receive their vouchers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054296%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259589","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259589"}},{"id":"259588","reference":"AQW 54295/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-15","answerBy":"2016-03-01","answered":"2016-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development , in light of her announcement of funding for the broadband voucher scheme, to detail the communication her Department has had with rural businesses who applied to the scheme in 2015 but did not receive a voucher.","answerText":"All communications to rural businesses under the Broadband Voucher Scheme are dealt with by Belfast City Council on behalf of all council areas as they deliver the scheme on the ground.","answerHtml":"All communications to rural businesses under the Broadband Voucher Scheme are dealt with by Belfast City Council on behalf of all council areas as they deliver the scheme on the ground.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054295%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259588","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259588"}},{"id":"259587","reference":"AQW 54294/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-15","answerBy":"2016-03-01","answered":"2016-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether priority will be given to applications to the broadband voucher scheme from rural businesses who did not receive a voucher in 2015, due to a lack of funding.","answerText":"The funding of £0.5m I announced on 12th February 2016 will only be used to facilitate the rural businesses that had previously applied to the Broadband Voucher Scheme, but missed out due to lack of funding to receive their vouchers. This equates to some 170 rural business applicants unable to benefit from a voucher for up to £3,000 towards the cost of installation of a broadband service. The scheme will not actually re-open for applications.\n\nWhile responsibility for broadband provision falls under the remit of DETI, I’ve been delighted to be able to assist so many rural businesses by committing this £0.5m to the broadband voucher scheme.\n\nI’ve also been pleased to support domestic provision of broadband through the previous and new Rural Development Programme.","answerHtml":"The funding of £0.5m I announced on 12th February 2016 will only be used to facilitate the rural businesses that had previously applied to the Broadband Voucher Scheme, but missed out due to lack of funding to receive their vouchers. This equates to some 170 rural business applicants unable to benefit from a voucher for up to £3,000 towards the cost of installation of a broadband service. The scheme will not actually re-open for applications.
While responsibility for broadband provision falls under the remit of DETI, I’ve been delighted to be able to assist so many rural businesses by committing this £0.5m to the broadband voucher scheme.
I’ve also been pleased to support domestic provision of broadband through the previous and new Rural Development Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054294%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259587","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259587"}},{"id":"259586","reference":"AQW 54293/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-15","answerBy":"2016-03-01","answered":"2016-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the eligibility criteria for applying to the broadband voucher scheme.","answerText":"There is no further funding for new calls or applications to the Broadband voucher Scheme. This scheme is delivered through Belfast City Council on behalf of all council areas and is to assist with broadband installation costs for businesses. The scheme ran out of money before Christmas leaving some 170 rural business applicants unable to benefit from a voucher for up to £3,000 towards the cost of installation of a broadband service.\n\nThe funding of £0.5m I announced on 12th February 2016 will allow the rural businesses that had applied to the scheme but missed out due to lack of funding to receive their vouchers.","answerHtml":"There is no further funding for new calls or applications to the Broadband voucher Scheme. This scheme is delivered through Belfast City Council on behalf of all council areas and is to assist with broadband installation costs for businesses. The scheme ran out of money before Christmas leaving some 170 rural business applicants unable to benefit from a voucher for up to £3,000 towards the cost of installation of a broadband service.
The funding of £0.5m I announced on 12th February 2016 will allow the rural businesses that had applied to the scheme but missed out due to lack of funding to receive their vouchers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054293%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259586","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259586"}},{"id":"259585","reference":"AQW 54292/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-15","answerBy":"2016-03-01","answered":"2016-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on work to relocate her Department's Headquarters to Ballykelly in 2017, including progress on the decentralisation of jobs to the area.","answerText":"The project to relocate my departmental headquarters to Ballykelly remains on target to complete the first phase of construction by the end of 2017.\n\nPlanning permission was granted by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council at their meeting on 24th February 2016. The approved design included the construction of a new access road.\n\nThe tender evaluation process has been completed and now that planning permission has been secured my officials will work with Central Procurement Directorate to award the contract to the successful contractor.\n\nNICS accommodation in the northwest (Orchard House, Derry and County Hall, Coleraine) is already being utilised to allow for up to 100 posts to move to the northwest in advance of the new headquarters being ready in December 2017.\n\nI am grateful to you for taking the time to write to me on this important issue.","answerHtml":"The project to relocate my departmental headquarters to Ballykelly remains on target to complete the first phase of construction by the end of 2017.
Planning permission was granted by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council at their meeting on 24th February 2016. The approved design included the construction of a new access road.
The tender evaluation process has been completed and now that planning permission has been secured my officials will work with Central Procurement Directorate to award the contract to the successful contractor.
NICS accommodation in the northwest (Orchard House, Derry and County Hall, Coleraine) is already being utilised to allow for up to 100 posts to move to the northwest in advance of the new headquarters being ready in December 2017.
I am grateful to you for taking the time to write to me on this important issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054292%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259585"}},{"id":"259363","reference":"AQW 54226/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-12","answerBy":"2016-02-29","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety , pursuant to AQW 52462/11-16, to detail (i) the number of overtime hours worked by nurses in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in the last 12 months; (ii) the number of submissions for overtime hours the Northern Health and Social Care Trust has received from nurses in the last 12 months; and (iii) whether an overtime rate is paid to nurses that remain on duty after their shift hours have finished.","answerText":"& (ii)\tThis information is not readily available and can only be obtained at disproportionate cost\n(iii)\tAn overtime rate of pay can on occasion be paid to staff if they stay on shift after it should have ended at the request of their shift supervisor. This is dependent upon the individual circumstances and whether staff have already worked hours up to full time in keeping with Agenda for Change terms and conditions of employment. Staff may also, if they prefer, avail of time in lieu for extra hours worked.","answerHtml":"| & (ii) | This information is not readily available and can only be obtained at disproportionate cost |
| (iii) | An overtime rate of pay can on occasion be paid to staff if they stay on shift after it should have ended at the request of their shift supervisor. This is dependent upon the individual circumstances and whether staff have already worked hours up to full time in keeping with Agenda for Change terms and conditions of employment. Staff may also, if they prefer, avail of time in lieu for extra hours worked. |
Nursing Bank hours in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT), as in all Health and Social Care Trusts, are available for nurses who wish to earn additional payment over their contracted hours or who wish to avail of a fully flexible work pattern. There is no requirement or expectation on any individual to apply for bank hours. Bank nursing contributes importantly to maintaining service provision to patients and clients.
The bank system in NHSCT became operational on 1st May 2012.
A separate payslip is issued as bank hours are not overtime in the existing post but additional hours which can be carried out in any clinical area within the Trust.
Nurses and Midwives working extra hours through the Bank are not paid an overtime rate but are paid bank rates in line with arrangements under Agenda for Change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054224%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259361"}},{"id":"259357","reference":"AQW 54220/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-12","answerBy":"2016-02-29","answered":"2016-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of businesses and organisations in East Londonderry that have benefited from vacant property rate relief in the last twelve months, having taken possession of a property which has been vacant for over 1 year.","answerText":"Empty Premises Relief was paid on 18 non-domestic properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency area at some point in the twelve months from 1st February 2015 to 31st January 2016.","answerHtml":"Empty Premises Relief was paid on 18 non-domestic properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency area at some point in the twelve months from 1st February 2015 to 31st January 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054220%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259357"}},{"id":"259356","reference":"AQW 54219/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-12","answerBy":"2016-02-29","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail (i) the eligibility criteria for businesses to qualify for sports and recreation rate relief; and (ii) the number of businesses in East Londonderry that currently benefit from sports and recreation rate relief.","answerText":"(i) The eligibility criteria for businesses to qualify for Sport and Recreation relief are as stated in Article 31 of the Rates (NI) Order 1977.\n\nThe legislation requires that the property, at least part of which must be used solely for a prescribed recreation, is occupied by a club, society or other organisation which is not established or conducted for profit, which does not employ professional players, and is not already distinguished as exempt in the Valuation List.\n\n(ii) As at 31 January 2016, 64 properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency area benefit from Sport and Recreation relief.","answerHtml":"(i) The eligibility criteria for businesses to qualify for Sport and Recreation relief are as stated in Article 31 of the Rates (NI) Order 1977.
The legislation requires that the property, at least part of which must be used solely for a prescribed recreation, is occupied by a club, society or other organisation which is not established or conducted for profit, which does not employ professional players, and is not already distinguished as exempt in the Valuation List.
(ii) As at 31 January 2016, 64 properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency area benefit from Sport and Recreation relief.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054219%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259356"}},{"id":"259355","reference":"AQW 54218/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-12","answerBy":"2016-02-29","answered":"2016-02-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether his Department will consider rates relief or the deferment of rates payment for new business start-ups to encourage growth in this sector and to allow new businesses to establish themselves.","answerText":"Members of the Belfast Chamber met with my predecessor at the end of last year and made a similar suggestion about rate relief for new businesses. This is something that can be looked at as part of the review of the non domestic rating system but introducing such a measure is not without difficulty in terms of readily distinguishing the genuine new business from a displaced business under a new name.\n\nThe deferment suggestion is an interesting and novel one. It is not something that anyone has raised before or as part of the ongoing Review. It was, however, a measure that was introduced in the domestic sector for pensioner ratepayers a few years ago but that scheme was abandoned due to its high cost of administration and its very low take up. This was because it required a legal charge to be placed on a property and for there to be sufficient equity available to protect public revenues. Many new businesses rent and therefore it may not be a practical proposition.\n\nNotwithstanding these difficulties, any changes of this nature would ultimately require legislative change which means that these are matters for the next Finance Minister to consider and for the new Executive to decide. I will, however, ask my officials to bear these ideas in mind when drawing up proposals for the new administration.","answerHtml":"Members of the Belfast Chamber met with my predecessor at the end of last year and made a similar suggestion about rate relief for new businesses. This is something that can be looked at as part of the review of the non domestic rating system but introducing such a measure is not without difficulty in terms of readily distinguishing the genuine new business from a displaced business under a new name.
The deferment suggestion is an interesting and novel one. It is not something that anyone has raised before or as part of the ongoing Review. It was, however, a measure that was introduced in the domestic sector for pensioner ratepayers a few years ago but that scheme was abandoned due to its high cost of administration and its very low take up. This was because it required a legal charge to be placed on a property and for there to be sufficient equity available to protect public revenues. Many new businesses rent and therefore it may not be a practical proposition.
Notwithstanding these difficulties, any changes of this nature would ultimately require legislative change which means that these are matters for the next Finance Minister to consider and for the new Executive to decide. I will, however, ask my officials to bear these ideas in mind when drawing up proposals for the new administration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054218%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259355"}},{"id":"259231","reference":"AQW 54175/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-11","answerBy":"2016-02-26","answered":"2016-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the student intake at the Ulster University Coleraine campus in each of the last five academic years.","answerText":"The table below shows the number of enrolments at Ulster University Coleraine campus each year from 2010/11 to 2014/15.\n\nAcademic year\tEnrolments at UU Coleraine\n2010/11\t5,350\n2011/12\t5,275\n2012/13\t5,195\n2013/14\t5,330\n2014/15\t5,205","answerHtml":"The table below shows the number of enrolments at Ulster University Coleraine campus each year from 2010/11 to 2014/15.
| Academic year | Enrolments at UU Coleraine |
| 2010/11 | 5,350 |
| 2011/12 | 5,275 |
| 2012/13 | 5,195 |
| 2013/14 | 5,330 |
| 2014/15 | 5,205 |
In terms of supporting the growth of social enterprises in East Londonderry, since January 2013 some 14 groups from the community/voluntary sector have participated on Invest NI’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme. Five of the groups progressed to start up stage, creating 10 jobs. In addition, from April 2014 to December 2015 there have been 70 participants that engaged with the services offered through the Social Enterprise hubs.
Six social enterprises have been financially supported in East Londonderry in the last three years, these are the Rural Area Partnership in Derry Ltd, Claudy Rural Development Ltd, Timber Tots, Stendhal Festival Limited, Causeway Enterprise Agency and Big Telly Theatre Company. Financial assistance provided has included employment grant (under the Jobs Fund), export development assistance, management information support, innovation vouchers and finance vouchers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054174%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259230","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259230"}},{"id":"259229","reference":"AQW 54173/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-11","answerBy":"2016-02-26","answered":"2016-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the (i) total investment in; and (ii) economic output from tourism in each constituency for each of the last three years.","answerText":"Tourism NI and Invest NI’s total investment is tourism in each constituency for each of the last three years is as follows:\n\nTOURISM NORTHERN IRELAND:\n\nTable 1:Capital Funding Programmes:\n\nConstituency:\t2012/13:\t2013/14:\t2014/15:\tTotal:\nBelfast East\t£255,907.80\t£859,950.48\t£3,148,393.00\t£4,264,251.28\nBelfast North\t-\t£215,160.12\t-\t£215,160.12\nBelfast South\t£747,311.00\t£18,564,400.00\t-\t£19,311,711\nBelfast West\t£223,305.00\t-\t-\t£223,305.00\nEast Antrim\t£85,305.00\t£266,006.19\t£1,393,120.00\t£1,744,431.19\nEast Londonderry\t£513,400.01\t£923,233.50\t-\t£1,436,633.51\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t£159,527.00\t-\t£698,500.00\t£858,027.00\nFoyle\t£1,034,984.00\t-\t£810,891.75\t£1,845875.75\nLagan Valley\t-\t-\t-\t-\nMid Ulster\t-\t-\t-\t-\nNewry & Armagh\t£65,041.48\t£253,500.00\t-\t£318,541.48\nNorth Antrim\t£797,412.00\t-\t-\t£797,412.00\nNorth Down\t£257,508.00\t£27,500.00\t-\t£285,008.00\nSouth Antrim\t-\t-\t-\t-\nSouth Down\t£458,545.00\t-\t£180,000.00\t£638,545.00\nStrangford\t£38,325.00\t-\t-\t£38,325.00\nUpper Bann\t-\t-\t£35,042.50\t£35,042.50\nWest Tyrone\t£120,448.00\t-\t-\t£120,448.00\nTotal:\t£4,757,019.29\t£21,109,750.29\t£6,265,947.25\t£32,132,716.83\n\nTable 2:Tourism Events Funding Programme:\n\nConstituency:\t2012/13:\t2013/14:\t2014/15:\tTotal:\nBelfast East\t£1,580,000\t£30,000\t£88,000\t£1,698,000\nBelfast North\t£160,500\t£105,000\t£111,600\t£377,100\nBelfast South\t£82,000\t£130,000\t£253,000\t£465,000\nBelfast West\t£100,000\t£90,000\t£130,000\t£320,000\nEast Antrim\t£25,000\t£15,000\t£30,000\t£70,000\nEast Londonderry\t£150,000\t£80,000\t£193,500\t£423,500\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t£100,000\t£95,000\t£182,200\t£377,200\nFoyle\t£617,163\t£810,000\t£603,950\t£2,031,113\nLagan Valley\t£207,000\t£115,000\t£148,000\t£470,000\nMid Ulster\t£30,000\t£15,000\t£27,000\t£72,000\nNewry & Armagh\t£45,000\t£35,000\t£90,000\t£170,000\nNorth Antrim\t£2,114,955\t£119,500\t£211,000\t£2,445,455\nNorth Down\t-\t-\t£36,500\t£36,500\nSouth Antrim\t-\t-\t£24,000\t£24,000\nSouth Down\t£15,000\t£45,000\t£84,000\t£144,000\nStrangford\t-\t£15,000\t£27,000\t£42,000\nUpper Bann\t-\t-\t£6,000\t£6,000\nWest Tyrone\t£15,000\t£15,000\t£34,000\t£64,000\nTotal:\t£5,241,618\t£1,714,500\t£2,279,750\t£9,235,868\n\nTable 3:Other investment in tourism events:\n\nIn addition, Tourism NI supports tourism events across Northern Ireland which occur in multiple locations. Therefore, it is not possible to disaggregate the investment in these events on a constituency by constituency basis. They are as follows:\n\nLocation:\t2012/13:\t2013/14:\t2014/15:\tTotal:\nBelfast\n(Various)\t£270,000\t£45,000\t£3,336,500\t£3,651,500\nNorthern Ireland\n(Various)\t£337,218\t£55,000\t£249,400\t£641,618\nTotal:\t£607,218\t£100,000\t£3,585,900\t£4,293,118\n\nTable 4:Regional Development Funding:\n\nConstituency:\t2012/13:\t2013/14:\t2014/15:\tTotal:\nBelfast East\t£2,880\t£6,000\t-\t£8,880\nBelfast North\t-\t-\t-\t-\nBelfast South\t-\t-\t-\t-\nBelfast West\t-\t-\t-\t-\nEast Antrim\t£880\t-\t-\t£880\nEast Londonderry\t£1,400\t-\t-\t£1,400\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t£400,000\t-\t£15,000\t£415,000\nFoyle\t£15,000\t-\t£5,220\t£20,220\nLagan Valley\t-\t-\t-\t-\nMid Ulster\t-\t-\t-\t-\nNewry & Armagh\t£5,000\t-\t-\t£5,000\nNorth Antrim\t£13,209\t£9,100\t-\t£22,309\nNorth Down\t-\t-\t-\t-\nSouth Antrim\t-\t-\t-\t-\nSouth Down\t£65,787\t£55,750\t£71,696\t£193,233\nStrangford\t£3,500\t-\t-\t£3,500\nUpper Bann\t-\t-\t-\t-\nWest Tyrone\t-\t-\t-\t-\nTotal:\t£507,656\t£70,850\t£91,916\t£670,422\n\nOther investment in tourism:\n\nIn addition, Tourism NI invests in national tourism programmes such as the Industry Development Programme; Quality Grading Scheme and Promotion & Marketing Campaigns at a national level. However, it is not possible to disaggregate this investment on a constituency by constituency basis.\n\nINVEST NORTHERN IRELAND:\n\nTable 5:\n\nINVEST NI ASSISTANCE OFFERED WITHIN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY (2012-13 TO 2014-15):\nPCA:\t2012-13:\t2013-14:\t2014-15:\nCapital:\tOther:\tTotal\nAssistance:\tCapital:\tOther:\tTotal\nAssistance:\tCapital:\tOther:\tTotal\nAssistance:\nBelfast East\t60,375\t107,908\t168,283\t0\t271,244\t271,244\t0\t23,208\t23,208\nBelfast North\t0\t54,074\t54,074\t0\t25,656\t25,656\t0\t4,524\t4,524\nBelfast South\t0\t148,422\t148,422\t0\t94,444\t94,444\t0\t158,268\t158,268\nBelfast West\t\t0\t\t0\t0\t\t\t0\nEast Antrim\t\t0\t\t240,000\t3,664\t243,664\t\t0\nEast Londonderry\t0\t32,822\t32,822\t0\t13,944\t13,944\t0\t34,494\t34,494\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t14,175\t237,115\t251,290\t30,000\t179,239\t209,239\t135,536\t133,399\t268,935\nFoyle\t137,450\t46,116\t183,566\t0\t45,603\t45,603\t0\t138,820\t138,820\nLagan Valley\t0\t1,566\t1,566\t0\t8,328\t8,328\t0\t4,676\t4,676\nMid Ulster\t0\t49,000\t49,000\t0\t6,366\t6,366\t0\t12,052\t12,052\nNewry & Armagh\t0\t18,617\t18,617\t0\t1,618\t1,618\t0\t5,909\t5,909\nNorth Antrim\t0\t30,306\t30,306\t650,000\t176,083\t826,083\t0\t32,503\t32,503\nNorth Down\t0\t6,810\t6,810\t0\t21,201\t21,201\t0\t4,310\t4,310\nSouth Antrim\t0\t66,184\t66,184\t0\t25,766\t25,766\t\t0\nSouth Down\t0\t25,289\t25,289\t0\t28,600\t28,600\t0\t15,265\t15,265\nStrangford\t0\t61,819\t61,819\t0\t19,565\t19,565\t0\t10,436\t10,436\nUpper Bann\t0\t698\t698\t0\t1,600\t1,600\t0\t5,234\t5,234\nWest Tyrone\t0\t2,550\t2,550\t0\t34,290\t34,290\t0\t54,500\t54,500\nTotal:\t212,000\t889,296\t1,101,296\t920,000\t957,211\t1,877,211\t135,536\t637,598\t773,134\n\nNotes:\nOther Assistance includes all Invest NI support, both direct and indirect. (E.g. It includes loans made by Carbon Trust.)\n2. The Tourism sector is based on Invest NI's internal sector structure and includes accommodation providers and other tourism\nbusinesses.\n3. Invest NI revises performance data on a regular basis to ensure that it reflects implemented projects; therefore, the data above may\ndiffer to previously published information.\n\nMy Department; Tourism NI or Invest NI does not hold this information. Economic output from tourism in each constituency is the responsibility of The Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency (NISRA), an Agency within The Department of Finance & Personnel (DFP).","answerHtml":"Tourism NI and Invest NI’s total investment is tourism in each constituency for each of the last three years is as follows:
TOURISM NORTHERN IRELAND:
Table 1:Capital Funding Programmes:
| Constituency: | 2012/13: | 2013/14: | 2014/15: | Total: |
| Belfast East | £255,907.80 | £859,950.48 | £3,148,393.00 | £4,264,251.28 |
| Belfast North | - | £215,160.12 | - | £215,160.12 |
| Belfast South | £747,311.00 | £18,564,400.00 | - | £19,311,711 |
| Belfast West | £223,305.00 | - | - | £223,305.00 |
| East Antrim | £85,305.00 | £266,006.19 | £1,393,120.00 | £1,744,431.19 |
| East Londonderry | £513,400.01 | £923,233.50 | - | £1,436,633.51 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | £159,527.00 | - | £698,500.00 | £858,027.00 |
| Foyle | £1,034,984.00 | - | £810,891.75 | £1,845875.75 |
| Lagan Valley | - | - | - | - |
| Mid Ulster | - | - | - | - |
| Newry & Armagh | £65,041.48 | £253,500.00 | - | £318,541.48 |
| North Antrim | £797,412.00 | - | - | £797,412.00 |
| North Down | £257,508.00 | £27,500.00 | - | £285,008.00 |
| South Antrim | - | - | - | - |
| South Down | £458,545.00 | - | £180,000.00 | £638,545.00 |
| Strangford | £38,325.00 | - | - | £38,325.00 |
| Upper Bann | - | - | £35,042.50 | £35,042.50 |
| West Tyrone | £120,448.00 | - | - | £120,448.00 |
| Total: | £4,757,019.29 | £21,109,750.29 | £6,265,947.25 | £32,132,716.83 |
Table 2:Tourism Events Funding Programme:
| Constituency: | 2012/13: | 2013/14: | 2014/15: | Total: |
| Belfast East | £1,580,000 | £30,000 | £88,000 | £1,698,000 |
| Belfast North | £160,500 | £105,000 | £111,600 | £377,100 |
| Belfast South | £82,000 | £130,000 | £253,000 | £465,000 |
| Belfast West | £100,000 | £90,000 | £130,000 | £320,000 |
| East Antrim | £25,000 | £15,000 | £30,000 | £70,000 |
| East Londonderry | £150,000 | £80,000 | £193,500 | £423,500 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | £100,000 | £95,000 | £182,200 | £377,200 |
| Foyle | £617,163 | £810,000 | £603,950 | £2,031,113 |
| Lagan Valley | £207,000 | £115,000 | £148,000 | £470,000 |
| Mid Ulster | £30,000 | £15,000 | £27,000 | £72,000 |
| Newry & Armagh | £45,000 | £35,000 | £90,000 | £170,000 |
| North Antrim | £2,114,955 | £119,500 | £211,000 | £2,445,455 |
| North Down | - | - | £36,500 | £36,500 |
| South Antrim | - | - | £24,000 | £24,000 |
| South Down | £15,000 | £45,000 | £84,000 | £144,000 |
| Strangford | - | £15,000 | £27,000 | £42,000 |
| Upper Bann | - | - | £6,000 | £6,000 |
| West Tyrone | £15,000 | £15,000 | £34,000 | £64,000 |
| Total: | £5,241,618 | £1,714,500 | £2,279,750 | £9,235,868 |
Table 3:Other investment in tourism events:
In addition, Tourism NI supports tourism events across Northern Ireland which occur in multiple locations. Therefore, it is not possible to disaggregate the investment in these events on a constituency by constituency basis. They are as follows:
| Location: | 2012/13: | 2013/14: | 2014/15: | Total: |
| Belfast (Various) | £270,000 | £45,000 | £3,336,500 | £3,651,500 |
| Northern Ireland (Various) | £337,218 | £55,000 | £249,400 | £641,618 |
| Total: | £607,218 | £100,000 | £3,585,900 | £4,293,118 |
Table 4:Regional Development Funding:
| Constituency: | 2012/13: | 2013/14: | 2014/15: | Total: |
| Belfast East | £2,880 | £6,000 | - | £8,880 |
| Belfast North | - | - | - | - |
| Belfast South | - | - | - | - |
| Belfast West | - | - | - | - |
| East Antrim | £880 | - | - | £880 |
| East Londonderry | £1,400 | - | - | £1,400 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | £400,000 | - | £15,000 | £415,000 |
| Foyle | £15,000 | - | £5,220 | £20,220 |
| Lagan Valley | - | - | - | - |
| Mid Ulster | - | - | - | - |
| Newry & Armagh | £5,000 | - | - | £5,000 |
| North Antrim | £13,209 | £9,100 | - | £22,309 |
| North Down | - | - | - | - |
| South Antrim | - | - | - | - |
| South Down | £65,787 | £55,750 | £71,696 | £193,233 |
| Strangford | £3,500 | - | - | £3,500 |
| Upper Bann | - | - | - | - |
| West Tyrone | - | - | - | - |
| Total: | £507,656 | £70,850 | £91,916 | £670,422 |
Other investment in tourism:
In addition, Tourism NI invests in national tourism programmes such as the Industry Development Programme; Quality Grading Scheme and Promotion & Marketing Campaigns at a national level. However, it is not possible to disaggregate this investment on a constituency by constituency basis.
INVEST NORTHERN IRELAND:
Table 5:
| INVEST NI ASSISTANCE OFFERED WITHIN THE TOURISM INDUSTRY (2012-13 TO 2014-15): | |||||||||
| PCA: | 2012-13: | 2013-14: | 2014-15: | ||||||
| Capital: | Other: | Total Assistance: | Capital: | Other: | Total Assistance: | Capital: | Other: | Total Assistance: | |
| Belfast East | 60,375 | 107,908 | 168,283 | 0 | 271,244 | 271,244 | 0 | 23,208 | 23,208 |
| Belfast North | 0 | 54,074 | 54,074 | 0 | 25,656 | 25,656 | 0 | 4,524 | 4,524 |
| Belfast South | 0 | 148,422 | 148,422 | 0 | 94,444 | 94,444 | 0 | 158,268 | 158,268 |
| Belfast West | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | |||||
| East Antrim | 0 | 240,000 | 3,664 | 243,664 | 0 | ||||
| East Londonderry | 0 | 32,822 | 32,822 | 0 | 13,944 | 13,944 | 0 | 34,494 | 34,494 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 14,175 | 237,115 | 251,290 | 30,000 | 179,239 | 209,239 | 135,536 | 133,399 | 268,935 |
| Foyle | 137,450 | 46,116 | 183,566 | 0 | 45,603 | 45,603 | 0 | 138,820 | 138,820 |
| Lagan Valley | 0 | 1,566 | 1,566 | 0 | 8,328 | 8,328 | 0 | 4,676 | 4,676 |
| Mid Ulster | 0 | 49,000 | 49,000 | 0 | 6,366 | 6,366 | 0 | 12,052 | 12,052 |
| Newry & Armagh | 0 | 18,617 | 18,617 | 0 | 1,618 | 1,618 | 0 | 5,909 | 5,909 |
| North Antrim | 0 | 30,306 | 30,306 | 650,000 | 176,083 | 826,083 | 0 | 32,503 | 32,503 |
| North Down | 0 | 6,810 | 6,810 | 0 | 21,201 | 21,201 | 0 | 4,310 | 4,310 |
| South Antrim | 0 | 66,184 | 66,184 | 0 | 25,766 | 25,766 | 0 | ||
| South Down | 0 | 25,289 | 25,289 | 0 | 28,600 | 28,600 | 0 | 15,265 | 15,265 |
| Strangford | 0 | 61,819 | 61,819 | 0 | 19,565 | 19,565 | 0 | 10,436 | 10,436 |
| Upper Bann | 0 | 698 | 698 | 0 | 1,600 | 1,600 | 0 | 5,234 | 5,234 |
| West Tyrone | 0 | 2,550 | 2,550 | 0 | 34,290 | 34,290 | 0 | 54,500 | 54,500 |
| Total: | 212,000 | 889,296 | 1,101,296 | 920,000 | 957,211 | 1,877,211 | 135,536 | 637,598 | 773,134 |
| Notes: | |||||||||
| Other Assistance includes all Invest NI support, both direct and indirect. (E.g. It includes loans made by Carbon Trust.) | |||||||||
| 2. The Tourism sector is based on Invest NI's internal sector structure and includes accommodation providers and other tourism businesses. | |||||||||
| 3. Invest NI revises performance data on a regular basis to ensure that it reflects implemented projects; therefore, the data above may differ to previously published information. |
My Department; Tourism NI or Invest NI does not hold this information. Economic output from tourism in each constituency is the responsibility of The Northern Ireland Statistics & Research Agency (NISRA), an Agency within The Department of Finance & Personnel (DFP).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054173%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259229","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259229"}},{"id":"259228","reference":"AQW 54172/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-11","answerBy":"2016-02-26","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he intends to review the process by which Direct Payments are awarded by Health and Social Care Trusts for the care of children and adults.","answerText":"Under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have a duty to provide a direct payment to an individual with eligible needs, if the HSC Trust is satisfied that the individual's need for support can be met appropriately by means of a direct payment.\n\nDirect payments can be a very useful tool in supporting people to take control of their own care and promoting choice. As part of the Reform of Adult Care and Support, my department is examining the future role of direct payments, in order to ensure that the system is making the best use of this important mechanism for providing care.","answerHtml":"Under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have a duty to provide a direct payment to an individual with eligible needs, if the HSC Trust is satisfied that the individual's need for support can be met appropriately by means of a direct payment.
Direct payments can be a very useful tool in supporting people to take control of their own care and promoting choice. As part of the Reform of Adult Care and Support, my department is examining the future role of direct payments, in order to ensure that the system is making the best use of this important mechanism for providing care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054172%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=259228","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=259228"}},{"id":"258956","reference":"AQW 54081/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-10","answerBy":"2016-02-25","answered":"2016-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment To detail (i) the number of small and medium sized business start ups in East Londonderry in each of the last two years; and (ii) the ratio of success to failure of new business start ups.","answerText":"Due to their diversity there is no single definitive source which captures the ‘total’ number of business starts in Northern Ireland.\n\nNISRA produce the Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR) which provides counts of births of new businesses (who meet VAT/PAYE threshold) for the (old) 26 District Council Areas. This information is not currently available by PCA nor is it available by new Council areas.\n\nThe IDBR statistics indicate that in Northern Ireland there were 67,710 VAT/PAYE starts recorded in 2013/2014 and 68,085 in 2014/15 of which 2,610 and 2,645 respectively were relevant to the (old) Derry City Council area. Survival rates are available to 2013 and show the (old) Derry City Council area to have an 87.5% survival rate (beyond 12 months) compared to the NI average of 86.4%.\n\nSpecific to East Londonderry, Invest NI provided financial support to 14 business starts in export markets during the financial years 2013/14 and 2014/15.\n\nInvest NI’s Regional Start Initiative (RSI) supported the delivery of 390 business plans on behalf of locally focussed entrepreneurs in East Londonderry during 2013/14 and 2014/15. The final evaluation of RSI (October 2015) indicates that 68% of these business plans (nationally) converted to actual business starts with a survival rate beyond 12 months of 90%.","answerHtml":"Due to their diversity there is no single definitive source which captures the ‘total’ number of business starts in Northern Ireland.
NISRA produce the Inter-Departmental Business Register (IDBR) which provides counts of births of new businesses (who meet VAT/PAYE threshold) for the (old) 26 District Council Areas. This information is not currently available by PCA nor is it available by new Council areas.
The IDBR statistics indicate that in Northern Ireland there were 67,710 VAT/PAYE starts recorded in 2013/2014 and 68,085 in 2014/15 of which 2,610 and 2,645 respectively were relevant to the (old) Derry City Council area. Survival rates are available to 2013 and show the (old) Derry City Council area to have an 87.5% survival rate (beyond 12 months) compared to the NI average of 86.4%.
Specific to East Londonderry, Invest NI provided financial support to 14 business starts in export markets during the financial years 2013/14 and 2014/15.
Invest NI’s Regional Start Initiative (RSI) supported the delivery of 390 business plans on behalf of locally focussed entrepreneurs in East Londonderry during 2013/14 and 2014/15. The final evaluation of RSI (October 2015) indicates that 68% of these business plans (nationally) converted to actual business starts with a survival rate beyond 12 months of 90%.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054081%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258956"}},{"id":"258955","reference":"AQW 54080/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-10","answerBy":"2016-02-25","answered":"2016-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what support his Department has offered to help new businesses to set-up and expand in East Londonderry in each of the last two years.","answerText":"Invest NI has offered £2.59million of support in 2013-14 and £1.53million in 2014-15 to help businesses undertake start up or expansion projects in the East Londonderry constituency area.\n\nIn addition to this almost £800,000 was offered to External Delivery Organisations or Universities based in the East Londonderry constituency area, the benefits of which will not necessarily be restricted to the constituency but also to businesses across the whole of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Invest NI has offered £2.59million of support in 2013-14 and £1.53million in 2014-15 to help businesses undertake start up or expansion projects in the East Londonderry constituency area.
In addition to this almost £800,000 was offered to External Delivery Organisations or Universities based in the East Londonderry constituency area, the benefits of which will not necessarily be restricted to the constituency but also to businesses across the whole of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054080%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258955"}},{"id":"258954","reference":"AQW 54079/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-10","answerBy":"2016-02-25","answered":"2016-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of visits facilitated by InvestNI for potential inward investors to East Londonderry during the 2014/15 financial year; and to detail the outcome of any visits.","answerText":"Invest NI facilitated five visits for potential inward investors to East Londonderry during the 2014/15 financial year. Typically, an investor will visit more than one parliamentary area as part of a visit programme, and is also likely to visit on more than one occasion before any decision is taken. On average, this process can take 12-24 months. Details of such visits, including outcomes, are regarded as ‘commercial-in-confidence’, until the point the company agrees to any public announcement.","answerHtml":"Invest NI facilitated five visits for potential inward investors to East Londonderry during the 2014/15 financial year. Typically, an investor will visit more than one parliamentary area as part of a visit programme, and is also likely to visit on more than one occasion before any decision is taken. On average, this process can take 12-24 months. Details of such visits, including outcomes, are regarded as ‘commercial-in-confidence’, until the point the company agrees to any public announcement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054079%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258954","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258954"}},{"id":"258953","reference":"AQW 54078/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-10","answerBy":"2016-02-25","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) the number of households identified as being affected by fuel poverty in East Londonderry in the last 12 months; and of those identified (ii) how many have been approved for the Affordable Warmth Scheme.","answerText":"In relation to part (i), the Housing Executive do not record fuel poverty figures aligned to parliamentary constituency. East Londonderry is part of the council area of Causeway Coast and Glens and 353 households have received approval to install energy efficiency measures including new heating systems, cavity wall and loft insulation and new windows through the Affordable Warmth Scheme.","answerHtml":"In relation to part (i), the Housing Executive do not record fuel poverty figures aligned to parliamentary constituency. East Londonderry is part of the council area of Causeway Coast and Glens and 353 households have received approval to install energy efficiency measures including new heating systems, cavity wall and loft insulation and new windows through the Affordable Warmth Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054078%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258953"}},{"id":"258952","reference":"AQW 54077/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-10","answerBy":"2016-02-25","answered":"2016-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning (i) to detail the number of jobs fairs in (a) Limavady; and (b) Coleraine in each of the last three years; (ii) how he has communicated with employers in these areas to assess demand for a jobs fair; and (iii) whether he plans to hold jobs fairs in these areas.","answerText":"Over the last three years, my Department has hosted the following job fair events locally. There have been three large scale job fair events in the Millennium Forum, Derry (2013, 2014 and 2015). All unemployed clients from both Coleraine and Limavady were invited to attend and issued with promotional flyers highlighting these events. I am aware that a number of clients from both areas attended these events.\n\nThere were two job fair events in the Joey Dunlop Centre, Ballymoney (2014 and 2015) with a number of clients from the Coleraine area attending these events.\n\nOfficials from my Department also worked with North West Regional College (NWRC) to deliver an Employment and Learning showcase event in Limavady in February 2015 which focused on STEM related subjects and which targeted local year 10 to year 14 students.\n\nWhen planning to host a Job Fair or event in any location my officials carefully consider the number of job opportunities employers have available in the area in order to establish whether there is sufficient interest from local companies to participate. This ensures that there are sufficient job opportunities on offer to assist the unemployed to find work and also provides value for money for the Department.\n\nShould the opportunity arise during 2016, and there is sufficient demand from employers in the Coleraine and Limavady area, my officials would be happy to scope out the potential for a Departmental event in this area.","answerHtml":"Over the last three years, my Department has hosted the following job fair events locally. There have been three large scale job fair events in the Millennium Forum, Derry (2013, 2014 and 2015). All unemployed clients from both Coleraine and Limavady were invited to attend and issued with promotional flyers highlighting these events. I am aware that a number of clients from both areas attended these events.
There were two job fair events in the Joey Dunlop Centre, Ballymoney (2014 and 2015) with a number of clients from the Coleraine area attending these events.
Officials from my Department also worked with North West Regional College (NWRC) to deliver an Employment and Learning showcase event in Limavady in February 2015 which focused on STEM related subjects and which targeted local year 10 to year 14 students.
When planning to host a Job Fair or event in any location my officials carefully consider the number of job opportunities employers have available in the area in order to establish whether there is sufficient interest from local companies to participate. This ensures that there are sufficient job opportunities on offer to assist the unemployed to find work and also provides value for money for the Department.
Should the opportunity arise during 2016, and there is sufficient demand from employers in the Coleraine and Limavady area, my officials would be happy to scope out the potential for a Departmental event in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054077%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258952"}},{"id":"258668","reference":"AQW 54052/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-09","answerBy":"2016-02-24","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the programme for regeneration works in Portrush prior to the Open Championship in 2019.","answerText":"My Department has established a programme board to oversee the development and implementation of a number of major infrastructure projects in Portrush. Two of the major capital projects proposed in the programme are a new train station and public realm works throughout the town centre. Subject to funding, it is planned to commence the design process in 2016/17.\n\nA further piece of work to determine options for the development of the harbour is expected to be completed around the end of March 2016.","answerHtml":"My Department has established a programme board to oversee the development and implementation of a number of major infrastructure projects in Portrush. Two of the major capital projects proposed in the programme are a new train station and public realm works throughout the town centre. Subject to funding, it is planned to commence the design process in 2016/17.
A further piece of work to determine options for the development of the harbour is expected to be completed around the end of March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054052%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258668"}},{"id":"258667","reference":"AQW 54051/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-09","answerBy":"2016-02-24","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the redevelopment of Portrush Harbour.","answerText":"In 2011 Coleraine Borough Council appointed consultants to carry out a feasibility study to determine if it was possible to extend and pontoon Portrush harbour. A number of development options were identified with development costs ranging from £10 M to £14 M.\n\nA further piece of work was commissioned to determine if any other value for money options were available. It is anticipated that this additional work will be completed around the end of March 2016.","answerHtml":"In 2011 Coleraine Borough Council appointed consultants to carry out a feasibility study to determine if it was possible to extend and pontoon Portrush harbour. A number of development options were identified with development costs ranging from £10 M to £14 M.
A further piece of work was commissioned to determine if any other value for money options were available. It is anticipated that this additional work will be completed around the end of March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054051%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258667","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258667"}},{"id":"258664","reference":"AQW 54048/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-09","answerBy":"2016-02-24","answered":"2016-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the number of families in East Londonderry that have benefited from the School Age Childcare Grant Scheme; and (ii) when the next round of awards will be open for application.","answerText":"Since its launch in 2014, the School Age Childcare Grant Scheme has awarded funding to five settings in the East Londonderry constituency area. This support has created or sustained 120 school age childcare places.\n\nIt is likely that the majority of these places will be used by families living in the East Londonderry constituency. However, some of the 120 places will probably be used by families living outside the constituency just as some families living in the constituency may use SAC Grant Scheme supported childcare services located elsewhere.\n\nA third call for applications to the School Age Childcare Grant Scheme closed on 29 January 2016; all applications received are currently being assessed. The full, final Childcare Strategy is currently being finalised. When launched later this year, we expect it to offer further funding opportunities for current and prospective childcare providers.","answerHtml":"Since its launch in 2014, the School Age Childcare Grant Scheme has awarded funding to five settings in the East Londonderry constituency area. This support has created or sustained 120 school age childcare places.
It is likely that the majority of these places will be used by families living in the East Londonderry constituency. However, some of the 120 places will probably be used by families living outside the constituency just as some families living in the constituency may use SAC Grant Scheme supported childcare services located elsewhere.
A third call for applications to the School Age Childcare Grant Scheme closed on 29 January 2016; all applications received are currently being assessed. The full, final Childcare Strategy is currently being finalised. When launched later this year, we expect it to offer further funding opportunities for current and prospective childcare providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2054048%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258664","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258664"}},{"id":"258413","reference":"AQW 53959/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-08","answerBy":"2016-02-23","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the work of the Ministerial Sub-Group on Regional Opportunities with regards to the North West area.","answerText":"The Ministerial Sub-Group on Regional Opportunities held two meetings which focused on the North West and considered the work being taken forward by departments and other agencies to promote investment and economic development in the area. The statement released following the second meeting advised of the Sub-Group’s consensus on the importance of investment in road infrastructure to improve access to and from the area and thereby enhance economic growth. Future meetings of the Sub-Group will seek to consider similar issues in relation to other areas, but the work of departments in promoting inward investment and in the implementation of major projects, including the A5 road, to benefit the North West will continue.","answerHtml":"The Ministerial Sub-Group on Regional Opportunities held two meetings which focused on the North West and considered the work being taken forward by departments and other agencies to promote investment and economic development in the area. The statement released following the second meeting advised of the Sub-Group’s consensus on the importance of investment in road infrastructure to improve access to and from the area and thereby enhance economic growth. Future meetings of the Sub-Group will seek to consider similar issues in relation to other areas, but the work of departments in promoting inward investment and in the implementation of major projects, including the A5 road, to benefit the North West will continue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053959%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258413","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258413"}},{"id":"258412","reference":"AQW 53958/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-08","answerBy":"2016-02-23","answered":"2016-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on funding for Neighbourhood Renewal projects in East Londonderry in 2016-2017.","answerText":"My officials have previously written to all organisations funded through the Neighbourhood Renewal programme advising of the significant financial pressures facing the Executive. Following the Executive’s agreement on the final budget for 2016/17, I now need to consider the impact the settlement will have across the remit of my Department.\n\nWhilst I have still to finalise decisions around my Departmental budget, which will limit the amount of funding that will be available through the programmes that my Department currently delivers, my officials are seeking to identify those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of these programmes; including the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. As this exercise is ongoing and I have not yet finalised my decisions therefore it is premature to speculate on the outcome, with regards to which projects will be supported.","answerHtml":"My officials have previously written to all organisations funded through the Neighbourhood Renewal programme advising of the significant financial pressures facing the Executive. Following the Executive’s agreement on the final budget for 2016/17, I now need to consider the impact the settlement will have across the remit of my Department.
Whilst I have still to finalise decisions around my Departmental budget, which will limit the amount of funding that will be available through the programmes that my Department currently delivers, my officials are seeking to identify those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of these programmes; including the Neighbourhood Renewal programme. As this exercise is ongoing and I have not yet finalised my decisions therefore it is premature to speculate on the outcome, with regards to which projects will be supported.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053958%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258412","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258412"}},{"id":"258411","reference":"AQW 53957/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-08","answerBy":"2016-02-23","answered":"2016-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the matching service designed to bring empty homes back into use, in East Londonderry.","answerText":"A matching service scheme to bring privately owned empty homes back into use has been developed by the Housing Executive which is similar to initiatives used by local authorities in other parts of the United Kingdom. The scheme aims to match potential buyers with sellers of privately owned empty houses. To be part of scheme, prospective buyers and sellers are required to register with the Housing Executive to be part of the scheme, using the Empty Homes website (www.emptyhomesni.com).\n\nThe scheme went live in September 2015, with the Housing Executive writing to over 500 known owners of empty homes in Northern Ireland advising of the scheme. My Department has also promoted the scheme through the Private Rented Sector newsletter.\n\nIn the East Londonderry area there have been no owners of empty homes who have registered their property with the matching service scheme. However, as part of ongoing actions within my Department’s Empty Homes Strategy there have been 42 empty homes reported to the Housing Executive in East Londonderry. Of these, 18 have now been returned into use or demolished, 17 have been blocked up with the owners unable to be contacted, and 7 empty homes where the Housing Executive are seeking the owners to bring them back into use.","answerHtml":"A matching service scheme to bring privately owned empty homes back into use has been developed by the Housing Executive which is similar to initiatives used by local authorities in other parts of the United Kingdom. The scheme aims to match potential buyers with sellers of privately owned empty houses. To be part of scheme, prospective buyers and sellers are required to register with the Housing Executive to be part of the scheme, using the Empty Homes website (www.emptyhomesni.com).
The scheme went live in September 2015, with the Housing Executive writing to over 500 known owners of empty homes in Northern Ireland advising of the scheme. My Department has also promoted the scheme through the Private Rented Sector newsletter.
In the East Londonderry area there have been no owners of empty homes who have registered their property with the matching service scheme. However, as part of ongoing actions within my Department’s Empty Homes Strategy there have been 42 empty homes reported to the Housing Executive in East Londonderry. Of these, 18 have now been returned into use or demolished, 17 have been blocked up with the owners unable to be contacted, and 7 empty homes where the Housing Executive are seeking the owners to bring them back into use.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053957%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258411"}},{"id":"258410","reference":"AQW 53956/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-08","answerBy":"2016-02-23","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for the number of elective operations that have been (i) cancelled; and (ii) carried out in the independent sector since November 2015, in (a) Northern Ireland; and (b) the North West Independent Hospital, Ballykelly.","answerText":"The Department does not routinely collect information on cancelled operations or operations carried out for any provider in the Independent Sector. These are monitored by providers themselves and are subject to contract monitoring directly with Trusts, for those patients who have been transferred by a Trust.","answerHtml":"The Department does not routinely collect information on cancelled operations or operations carried out for any provider in the Independent Sector. These are monitored by providers themselves and are subject to contract monitoring directly with Trusts, for those patients who have been transferred by a Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053956%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258410"}},{"id":"258409","reference":"AQW 53955/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-08","answerBy":"2016-02-15","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how his Department is working with Health and Social Care Trusts to reduce delays in patient referrals for elective surgery at the North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly.","answerText":"I have been advised by the Health and Social Care Board that all patients for elective surgery have now been transferred to the North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly.","answerHtml":"I have been advised by the Health and Social Care Board that all patients for elective surgery have now been transferred to the North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053955%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258409","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258409"}},{"id":"258260","reference":"AQW 53908/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-05","answerBy":"2016-02-22","answered":"2016-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the extent to which the Programme for Government 11-15 commitment to reduce child poverty has been achieved.","answerText":"In the Programme for Government, the Executive made a commitment to fulfil our commitments under the Child Poverty Act 2010. The Child Poverty Act 2010 requires the Executive to publish a Child Poverty Strategy, prepare and publish annual reports on the Strategy and to formally review the Strategy every third year. The 2011-14 Child Poverty Strategy was published in March 2011, to date three Annual Reports have been published and we are currently refreshing data for the imminent publication of a further report. A review of progress was completed in 2014 in consultation with departments. A revised Child Poverty Strategy has been developed, which, following Executive agreement, will be published shortly.\n\nIn addition, the Delivering Social Change (DSC) Delivery Framework was established in 2012 and sought to co-ordinate key actions across Government departments to take forward work on priority social policy areas. Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes were initiated in to improve literacy and numeracy levels, offer increased family support and to support job creation within local communities, all of which were identified as being key priorities. It is already evident that each programme has reached a significant number of people (based on the latest available figures reporting up to June 2015):\n\nOver 3,300 families signposted to a range of services through Family Support Hubs;\n\n306 primary school children supported by Nurture Units;\n\n44 test traders benefitted from the services of Social Enterprise Hubs;\n\nOver 16,000 primary and post primary children received additional Maths and English support through the Literacy and Numeracy Programme;\n\n720 families participated in the Community Family Support Programme;\n\nOver 650 families supported through Parenting Support Programmes ;and\n\nOver 300 health professionals developed their skills for delivering programmes (improving infant mental health and reducing childhood behavioural problems).\n\nIn addition the £80 million Social Investment Fund aims to deliver social change in the 9 Social Investment zones across Northern Ireland by supporting investment to tackle issues associated with poverty and deprivation.\n\nIn all this work we have focused strategically on improving outcomes across a range of poverty and deprivation measures including health, education and developing the economy to improve the fortunes of those in poverty.","answerHtml":"In the Programme for Government, the Executive made a commitment to fulfil our commitments under the Child Poverty Act 2010. The Child Poverty Act 2010 requires the Executive to publish a Child Poverty Strategy, prepare and publish annual reports on the Strategy and to formally review the Strategy every third year. The 2011-14 Child Poverty Strategy was published in March 2011, to date three Annual Reports have been published and we are currently refreshing data for the imminent publication of a further report. A review of progress was completed in 2014 in consultation with departments. A revised Child Poverty Strategy has been developed, which, following Executive agreement, will be published shortly.
In addition, the Delivering Social Change (DSC) Delivery Framework was established in 2012 and sought to co-ordinate key actions across Government departments to take forward work on priority social policy areas. Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes were initiated in to improve literacy and numeracy levels, offer increased family support and to support job creation within local communities, all of which were identified as being key priorities. It is already evident that each programme has reached a significant number of people (based on the latest available figures reporting up to June 2015):
Over 3,300 families signposted to a range of services through Family Support Hubs;
306 primary school children supported by Nurture Units;
44 test traders benefitted from the services of Social Enterprise Hubs;
Over 16,000 primary and post primary children received additional Maths and English support through the Literacy and Numeracy Programme;
720 families participated in the Community Family Support Programme;
Over 650 families supported through Parenting Support Programmes ;and
Over 300 health professionals developed their skills for delivering programmes (improving infant mental health and reducing childhood behavioural problems).
In addition the £80 million Social Investment Fund aims to deliver social change in the 9 Social Investment zones across Northern Ireland by supporting investment to tackle issues associated with poverty and deprivation.
In all this work we have focused strategically on improving outcomes across a range of poverty and deprivation measures including health, education and developing the economy to improve the fortunes of those in poverty.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053908%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258260"}},{"id":"258259","reference":"AQW 53907/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-05","answerBy":"2016-02-22","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of (i) nurse; and (ii) GP vacancies in East Londonderry; and how many of these are specialist practice positions.","answerText":"(i)The information requested is not available. GPs are independent contractors who contract with the HSCB to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors they are responsible for deciding on and recruiting additional GPs and other staff required to deliver services to their patients.\n\n(ii)The East Londonderry constituency is split between the Western and Northern Health and Social Care Trusts. The Western HSC Trust is currently recruiting to 2 (1.80 whole-time equivalent) Band 5 nursing vacancies in Dungiven. Neither of these is a specialist practice position. The Northern HSC Trust covers the Coleraine area within East Londonderry, and is currently recruiting to 8 (6.04 WTE) qualified nursing and midwifery vacancies in that area, all at the Causeway Hospital. None of these is a specialist practice position.","answerHtml":"(i)The information requested is not available. GPs are independent contractors who contract with the HSCB to provide primary medical services to their patients. As independent contractors they are responsible for deciding on and recruiting additional GPs and other staff required to deliver services to their patients.
(ii)The East Londonderry constituency is split between the Western and Northern Health and Social Care Trusts. The Western HSC Trust is currently recruiting to 2 (1.80 whole-time equivalent) Band 5 nursing vacancies in Dungiven. Neither of these is a specialist practice position. The Northern HSC Trust covers the Coleraine area within East Londonderry, and is currently recruiting to 8 (6.04 WTE) qualified nursing and midwifery vacancies in that area, all at the Causeway Hospital. None of these is a specialist practice position.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053907%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258259","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258259"}},{"id":"258257","reference":"AQW 53905/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-05","answerBy":"2016-02-22","answered":"2016-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the area plan for (i) primary and (ii) post-primary schools in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The current area plans for primary schools and post primary schools in the former Western and North Eastern Education and Library Boards which straddled East Derry can be accessed through the following links: http://www.welbni.org/uploads/file/pdf/WELB_Strategic_Area_Plan_for_Primary_Schools.pdf\n\nhttp://www.welbni.org/uploads/file/WELB_Strategic_Area_Plan_-_Post_Primary_Schools_-_January_2015.pdf\n\nEA, North Eastern Region - Post Primary Area Planning\n\nEA, North Eastern Region - Area Planning","answerHtml":"The current area plans for primary schools and post primary schools in the former Western and North Eastern Education and Library Boards which straddled East Derry can be accessed through the following links: http://www.welbni.org/uploads/file/pdf/WELB_Strategic_Area_Plan_for_Primary_Schools.pdf
http://www.welbni.org/uploads/file/WELB_Strategic_Area_Plan_-_Post_Primary_Schools_-_January_2015.pdf
EA, North Eastern Region - Post Primary Area Planning
EA, North Eastern Region - Area Planning
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053905%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258257"}},{"id":"258256","reference":"AQW 53904/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-05","answerBy":"2016-02-22","answered":"2016-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on work to achieve the Programme for Government 11-15 target to reform and modernise the Prison Service.","answerText":"The Prison Review Oversight Group held its final meeting on 3 February 2016, having signed off 36 of the 40 recommendations made in the Prison Review Team report. This achieved the Programme for Government target to implement 90% of the recommendations within the agreed timescales.","answerHtml":"The Prison Review Oversight Group held its final meeting on 3 February 2016, having signed off 36 of the 40 recommendations made in the Prison Review Team report. This achieved the Programme for Government target to implement 90% of the recommendations within the agreed timescales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053904%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258256"}},{"id":"258255","reference":"AQW 53903/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-05","answerBy":"2016-02-22","answered":"2016-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail all the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that received funding from their Department since 2011, including how much was received.","answerText":"A list of community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from OFMDFM since 2011, including how much was awarded, is detailed in the table below.\n\nYear of Funding\tFunding Stream\tTotal Funding Awarded (£)\tGroup Funded\n2013/14\tEquality, Human Rights, Active Ageing and Disability Unit\t£13,919.12\tBig Telly Theatre Company\n2014/15\tSocial Investment Fund\t£462,000.00\tColeraine Rural and Urban Network\n2014/15\tSocial Investment Fund\t£17,161.00\tStrabane and District Caring Servicesfor Work Ready West across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £2.2 million\n2014/15\tSocial Investment Fund\t£5,000.00\tDerg Valley Carefor SATCHEL across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £1.3 million\n2015/16\tSocial Investment Fund\t£434,346.00\tStrabane and District Caring Servicesfor Work Ready West across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £2.2 million\n2015/16\tSocial Investment Fund\t£321,363.00\tDerg Valley Care for SATCHEL across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £1.3 million\n2015/16\tSocial Investment Fund\t£261,229.37\tColeraine Rural and Urban Network for Building to Employment Through Education across all of Northern SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £3.1million.\n2015/16\tSummer Camps Pilot Programme\t£7,707.07\tEducation Authority Youth Service Western Region\n2015/16\tSummer Camps Pilot Programme\t£5,494.61\tGreysteel Community Enterprise\n2015/16\tSummer Camps Pilot Programme\t£5,976.30\tColeraine Area Youth Office\n2015/16\tSummer Camps Pilot Programme\t£19,287.20\tRoe Valley Residents Association\n2015/16\tSummer Camps Pilot Programme\t£9,680.00\tCamp Shamrock\n\nRegarding the funding paid to the Big Telly Theatre Company in 2013/14, £11,611.22 was paid out in 2013/14 and the remainder of £2,307.90 was paid in 2015/16; however, as it was paid with a letter of variance, the total amount of £13,919.12 is attributable to the 2013/14 year.\n\nWith regards to the Summer Camps Pilot Programme, the costs above represent what has been awarded, rather than actual spend to date. It should be noted that some projects are still ongoing, and not all funding awarded has yet been claimed. Additionally, Summer Camps funding is awarded by the Education Authority, which administers the programme on behalf of OFMDFM.","answerHtml":"A list of community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from OFMDFM since 2011, including how much was awarded, is detailed in the table below.
| Year of Funding | Funding Stream | Total Funding Awarded (£) | Group Funded |
| 2013/14 | Equality, Human Rights, Active Ageing and Disability Unit | £13,919.12 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2014/15 | Social Investment Fund | £462,000.00 | Coleraine Rural and Urban Network |
| 2014/15 | Social Investment Fund | £17,161.00 | Strabane and District Caring Servicesfor Work Ready West across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £2.2 million |
| 2014/15 | Social Investment Fund | £5,000.00 | Derg Valley Carefor SATCHEL across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £1.3 million |
| 2015/16 | Social Investment Fund | £434,346.00 | Strabane and District Caring Servicesfor Work Ready West across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £2.2 million |
| 2015/16 | Social Investment Fund | £321,363.00 | Derg Valley Care for SATCHEL across all of Western SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £1.3 million |
| 2015/16 | Social Investment Fund | £261,229.37 | Coleraine Rural and Urban Network for Building to Employment Through Education across all of Northern SIF Zone – a 3 year project valued at £3.1million. |
| 2015/16 | Summer Camps Pilot Programme | £7,707.07 | Education Authority Youth Service Western Region |
| 2015/16 | Summer Camps Pilot Programme | £5,494.61 | Greysteel Community Enterprise |
| 2015/16 | Summer Camps Pilot Programme | £5,976.30 | Coleraine Area Youth Office |
| 2015/16 | Summer Camps Pilot Programme | £19,287.20 | Roe Valley Residents Association |
| 2015/16 | Summer Camps Pilot Programme | £9,680.00 | Camp Shamrock |
Regarding the funding paid to the Big Telly Theatre Company in 2013/14, £11,611.22 was paid out in 2013/14 and the remainder of £2,307.90 was paid in 2015/16; however, as it was paid with a letter of variance, the total amount of £13,919.12 is attributable to the 2013/14 year.
With regards to the Summer Camps Pilot Programme, the costs above represent what has been awarded, rather than actual spend to date. It should be noted that some projects are still ongoing, and not all funding awarded has yet been claimed. Additionally, Summer Camps funding is awarded by the Education Authority, which administers the programme on behalf of OFMDFM.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053903%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258255"}},{"id":"258154","reference":"AQW 53879/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-04","answerBy":"2016-02-19","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the impact on the agriculture sector of a 41 per cent drop in total income for farming in 2015; and how her Department is working to grow and sustain farming for the future.","answerText":"Farm incomes fell significantly in 2015 because of very poor market prices reflecting weak global markets and adverse exchange rate movements. The total income from farming figure for the industry as a whole is at a level not seen for 10 years and that is very concerning.\n\nThe Executive’s strategy for support to the agri-food supply chain is outlined in its response to Going for Growth, which details actions that Executive departments would deliver in support of the Executive’s commitment to the agri-food sector.\n\nIn particular, my Department has undertaken a number of initiatives to grow and sustain farming for the future. I have secured the largest ever Rural Development Programme funding, up to £623m, including up to £250m for the Farm Business Improvement Scheme which will deliver a number of programmes to assist and support farmers in securing the future of their businesses. On 8 February 2016, I announced that all eligible applications for the first tranche of Business Development Groups will be offered a place on the Programme. This is the first part of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme and will mean that over 3000 farmers will have the opportunity to work together to help develop their businesses in the aim of improving farm profitability.\n\nAccessing new and developing markets is vital to the long term sustainability of the sector. Through dedicating significant resources to this important area, DARD has also opened up a number of significant new markets, including provisional approval to sell pork to China and work is ongoing to secure access to further markets including Australia and the Philippines. My Department has also taken forward a number of initiatives in plant and animal health, including the establishment of the TB Strategic Partnership to provide further impetus to the ongoing efforts to eradicate TB.\n\nDeveloping a strong and resilient agricultural sector able to react to market volatility requires a strong and integrated supply chain. With the support of the Agri-Food Strategy Board, I have been encouraging all elements of the supply chain to work together in a more open and transparent manner. That work began at the initial Supply Chain Forum event in October 2015, and has continued via the AFSB. A further Supply Chain Forum event will take place in the near future and see more detailed discussions on potential tools available to the sector to soften the impact of volatility.\n\nI remain optimistic about the long-term opportunities for our farming industry. Though, the current income crisis requires that we continue to work on all fronts to help farmers and I will continue to do whatever can be done.","answerHtml":"Farm incomes fell significantly in 2015 because of very poor market prices reflecting weak global markets and adverse exchange rate movements. The total income from farming figure for the industry as a whole is at a level not seen for 10 years and that is very concerning.
The Executive’s strategy for support to the agri-food supply chain is outlined in its response to Going for Growth, which details actions that Executive departments would deliver in support of the Executive’s commitment to the agri-food sector.
In particular, my Department has undertaken a number of initiatives to grow and sustain farming for the future. I have secured the largest ever Rural Development Programme funding, up to £623m, including up to £250m for the Farm Business Improvement Scheme which will deliver a number of programmes to assist and support farmers in securing the future of their businesses. On 8 February 2016, I announced that all eligible applications for the first tranche of Business Development Groups will be offered a place on the Programme. This is the first part of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme and will mean that over 3000 farmers will have the opportunity to work together to help develop their businesses in the aim of improving farm profitability.
Accessing new and developing markets is vital to the long term sustainability of the sector. Through dedicating significant resources to this important area, DARD has also opened up a number of significant new markets, including provisional approval to sell pork to China and work is ongoing to secure access to further markets including Australia and the Philippines. My Department has also taken forward a number of initiatives in plant and animal health, including the establishment of the TB Strategic Partnership to provide further impetus to the ongoing efforts to eradicate TB.
Developing a strong and resilient agricultural sector able to react to market volatility requires a strong and integrated supply chain. With the support of the Agri-Food Strategy Board, I have been encouraging all elements of the supply chain to work together in a more open and transparent manner. That work began at the initial Supply Chain Forum event in October 2015, and has continued via the AFSB. A further Supply Chain Forum event will take place in the near future and see more detailed discussions on potential tools available to the sector to soften the impact of volatility.
I remain optimistic about the long-term opportunities for our farming industry. Though, the current income crisis requires that we continue to work on all fronts to help farmers and I will continue to do whatever can be done.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053879%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258154","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258154"}},{"id":"258153","reference":"AQW 53878/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-04","answerBy":"2016-02-10","answered":"2016-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline the rationale behind the choice of areas to host six regional consultation workshops for the development of a tourism strategy to 2025; and how he will ensure that local stakeholders in the (i) Portstewart; (ii) Portrush; (iii) Dunluce; (iv) Portballintrae; (v) Castlerock; and (vi) Magilligan areas will have the opportunity for input to the new strategy.","answerText":"Given the importance of tourism as a key driver of the local economy, I want to offer the opportunity of regional discussions with stakeholders to inform the development of a new strategy for the sector. However, there are a limited number of workshops which can be accommodated and, therefore, decisions have had to be made on locations to optimise attendance as far as possible.\n\nIn choosing the locations for the consultation events my officials tried to ensure, as far as possible, a geographical spread across Northern Ireland in an effort to keep the distance participants would have to travel to a minimum. The relative density of tourism activity across Northern Ireland was also considered in order to maximise attendance.\n\nThe number and locations of workshops was limited by budget considerations and the availability of suitable venues which could accommodate the numbers expected. There are no plans to organise any further workshops.\n\nThe workshop held at The Hedges Hotel, Ballymoney on the 4th February was a successful event and was very well received by the 50 plus participants who attended from across the Causeway Coast and Glens region. Stakeholders on the North Coast will also be able to avail of the forthcoming workshop to be held on 23 February at The Playhouse Theatre, Londonderry.\n\nI am very keen to hear from all those with an interest in tourism right across Northern Ireland and would encourage as many people as possible to attend these events. If anyone is unable to attend one of the workshops, the workshop material will be available online and my Department would be very happy to take comments in writing.","answerHtml":"Given the importance of tourism as a key driver of the local economy, I want to offer the opportunity of regional discussions with stakeholders to inform the development of a new strategy for the sector. However, there are a limited number of workshops which can be accommodated and, therefore, decisions have had to be made on locations to optimise attendance as far as possible.
In choosing the locations for the consultation events my officials tried to ensure, as far as possible, a geographical spread across Northern Ireland in an effort to keep the distance participants would have to travel to a minimum. The relative density of tourism activity across Northern Ireland was also considered in order to maximise attendance.
The number and locations of workshops was limited by budget considerations and the availability of suitable venues which could accommodate the numbers expected. There are no plans to organise any further workshops.
The workshop held at The Hedges Hotel, Ballymoney on the 4th February was a successful event and was very well received by the 50 plus participants who attended from across the Causeway Coast and Glens region. Stakeholders on the North Coast will also be able to avail of the forthcoming workshop to be held on 23 February at The Playhouse Theatre, Londonderry.
I am very keen to hear from all those with an interest in tourism right across Northern Ireland and would encourage as many people as possible to attend these events. If anyone is unable to attend one of the workshops, the workshop material will be available online and my Department would be very happy to take comments in writing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053878%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258153"}},{"id":"258152","reference":"AQW 53877/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-04","answerBy":"2016-02-19","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they are engaging with the community and voluntary sectors to develop a framework for a set of children’s rights indicators.","answerText":"The aim of the Child Rights Indicator Framework is to develop a set of outcome indicators which can be used at a strategic level to measure and monitor the Executive’s progress on effectiveness and achievement against the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).\n\nThese Child Rights indicators are not separate, but integral to the development of the new Children and Young People’s Strategy and will provide a clear and practical alignment between achievement of the outcomes set out in the Strategy and the measurement of improved compliance with delivery on children’s rights.\n\nExtensive engagement with the voluntary and community sector has been ongoing since June 2015, as we move forward with a co-design approach to develop a new Children and Young People Strategy. This has included: consideration of the recommendations in the NGO, Children’s Commissioners and Human Rights Commission reports to the UN Committee, which fed into the UNCRC List of Issues published in November 2015. Ongoing workshops and one to one meetings have been held with voluntary and community organisations, monthly updates on the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) website (two-way interaction) and the DSC monthly updates. As we move forward, engagement on the new Strategy will also include obtaining the views of a wide range of children and young people and their parents and carers building on what they have already shared with us. This engagement process will continue through to the publication of the new Strategy and on an ongoing basis thereafter.","answerHtml":"The aim of the Child Rights Indicator Framework is to develop a set of outcome indicators which can be used at a strategic level to measure and monitor the Executive’s progress on effectiveness and achievement against the United Nations Conventions on the Rights of the Child (UNCRC).
These Child Rights indicators are not separate, but integral to the development of the new Children and Young People’s Strategy and will provide a clear and practical alignment between achievement of the outcomes set out in the Strategy and the measurement of improved compliance with delivery on children’s rights.
Extensive engagement with the voluntary and community sector has been ongoing since June 2015, as we move forward with a co-design approach to develop a new Children and Young People Strategy. This has included: consideration of the recommendations in the NGO, Children’s Commissioners and Human Rights Commission reports to the UN Committee, which fed into the UNCRC List of Issues published in November 2015. Ongoing workshops and one to one meetings have been held with voluntary and community organisations, monthly updates on the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership (CYPSP) website (two-way interaction) and the DSC monthly updates. As we move forward, engagement on the new Strategy will also include obtaining the views of a wide range of children and young people and their parents and carers building on what they have already shared with us. This engagement process will continue through to the publication of the new Strategy and on an ongoing basis thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053877%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258152"}},{"id":"258151","reference":"AQW 53876/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-04","answerBy":"2016-02-19","answered":"2016-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for an update on the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society review of the work of the Built Heritage At Risk Register Northern Ireland, including when it will be published.","answerText":"A building that is still lived in can be included on the Built Heritage at Risk Register for Northern Ireland.\n\nDepartmental officials met the UAHS’s Chief Executive and buildings at risk officer on 11 January 2016 and agreed a timetable for the project. The UAHS is currently compiling relevant material. The work therefore remains on track for completion in the first half of this year. Once the work is complete my Department will determine the appropriate means by which to make it public.","answerHtml":"A building that is still lived in can be included on the Built Heritage at Risk Register for Northern Ireland.
Departmental officials met the UAHS’s Chief Executive and buildings at risk officer on 11 January 2016 and agreed a timetable for the project. The UAHS is currently compiling relevant material. The work therefore remains on track for completion in the first half of this year. Once the work is complete my Department will determine the appropriate means by which to make it public.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053876%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258151"}},{"id":"258150","reference":"AQW 53875/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-04","answerBy":"2016-02-19","answered":"2016-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment whether a building that is still lived in can be listed on the Built Heritage At Risk register for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"A building that is still lived in can be included on the Built Heritage at Risk Register for Northern Ireland.\n\nDepartmental officials met the UAHS’s Chief Executive and buildings at risk officer on 11 January 2016 and agreed a timetable for the project. The UAHS is currently compiling relevant material. The work therefore remains on track for completion in the first half of this year. Once the work is complete my Department will determine the appropriate means by which to make it public.","answerHtml":"A building that is still lived in can be included on the Built Heritage at Risk Register for Northern Ireland.
Departmental officials met the UAHS’s Chief Executive and buildings at risk officer on 11 January 2016 and agreed a timetable for the project. The UAHS is currently compiling relevant material. The work therefore remains on track for completion in the first half of this year. Once the work is complete my Department will determine the appropriate means by which to make it public.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053875%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=258150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=258150"}},{"id":"257968","reference":"AQW 53816/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-03","answerBy":"2016-02-18","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the number of university graduates in Northern Ireland comparative to other areas of the United Kingdom; and what plans there are to increase the number of graduates.","answerText":"The table below shows that Northern Ireland produces significantly fewer university graduates, relative to population, than any other part of the UK.\n\nTable 1 - Qualifications gained at UK HEIs as a proportion of the population by location of institution - 2014/15\n\nEngland\tNorthern Ireland\tScotland\tWales\tTotal\nQualifications gained\t616,420\t16,010\t71,175\t41,400\t745,005\nPopulation (mid 2014)\t54,316,600\t1,840,500\t5,347,600\t3,092,000\t64,596,800\nProportion gaining qualifications\t1.1%\t0.9%\t1.3%\t1.3%\t1.2%\nQualifications per 1000 population\t11.3\t8.7\t13.3\t13.4\t11.5\nSource: Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) and Annual Mid-Year Population Estimates for the UK, Office\nfor the National Statistics, 2015\n\nThe recently published skills barometer demonstrates clear evidence of a need to increase the supply of graduates in our workforce, particularly as we prepare for a lower rate of corporation tax from 2018 onwards. My Department has already taken some action to address this through targeted support for an additional 1,419 undergraduate places in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects between 2012 and 2015, and funding for an additional 234 PhD places in economically relevant subjects since 2012.\n\nIn addition to enhancing traditional forms of higher education provision, we have sought to develop a more diverse range of pathways for gaining higher level qualifications in Northern Ireland, in particular through our new system for apprenticeships. A range of higher level apprenticeship pilots are already in operation and additional pilots are being tested this year in advance of the full rollout of the new system. In a similar vein, we have been exploring opportunities to improve access to part-time and postgraduate study through the student finance system, and I intend to announce my plans in these areas in the near future.\n\nHowever, any expansion ambitions we have are going to be seriously curtailed until we find a sustainable funding solution for our higher education sector. Our local universities are already significantly underfunded compared to their counterparts elsewhere in the UK, and further reductions of some £16 million this year have both compounded this funding gap and had a direct impact on their intakes of full-time undergraduate students.\n\nLast year my Department initiated a public engagement process, called the Big Conversation, to raise awareness of, and seek solutions to, these issues. My Department intends to publish a response to that process in the coming weeks, outlining the various options available to us to secure a sustainable funding model for higher education and support the scale of growth which our economy requires. Those options will need to be considered in the context of the next Comprehensive Spending Review period.","answerHtml":"The table below shows that Northern Ireland produces significantly fewer university graduates, relative to population, than any other part of the UK.
Table 1 - Qualifications gained at UK HEIs as a proportion of the population by location of institution - 2014/15
| England | Northern Ireland | Scotland | Wales | Total | |
| Qualifications gained | 616,420 | 16,010 | 71,175 | 41,400 | 745,005 |
| Population (mid 2014) | 54,316,600 | 1,840,500 | 5,347,600 | 3,092,000 | 64,596,800 |
| Proportion gaining qualifications | 1.1% | 0.9% | 1.3% | 1.3% | 1.2% |
| Qualifications per 1000 population | 11.3 | 8.7 | 13.3 | 13.4 | 11.5 |
| Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA) and Annual Mid-Year Population Estimates for the UK, Office for the National Statistics, 2015 |
The recently published skills barometer demonstrates clear evidence of a need to increase the supply of graduates in our workforce, particularly as we prepare for a lower rate of corporation tax from 2018 onwards. My Department has already taken some action to address this through targeted support for an additional 1,419 undergraduate places in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics subjects between 2012 and 2015, and funding for an additional 234 PhD places in economically relevant subjects since 2012.
In addition to enhancing traditional forms of higher education provision, we have sought to develop a more diverse range of pathways for gaining higher level qualifications in Northern Ireland, in particular through our new system for apprenticeships. A range of higher level apprenticeship pilots are already in operation and additional pilots are being tested this year in advance of the full rollout of the new system. In a similar vein, we have been exploring opportunities to improve access to part-time and postgraduate study through the student finance system, and I intend to announce my plans in these areas in the near future.
However, any expansion ambitions we have are going to be seriously curtailed until we find a sustainable funding solution for our higher education sector. Our local universities are already significantly underfunded compared to their counterparts elsewhere in the UK, and further reductions of some £16 million this year have both compounded this funding gap and had a direct impact on their intakes of full-time undergraduate students.
Last year my Department initiated a public engagement process, called the Big Conversation, to raise awareness of, and seek solutions to, these issues. My Department intends to publish a response to that process in the coming weeks, outlining the various options available to us to secure a sustainable funding model for higher education and support the scale of growth which our economy requires. Those options will need to be considered in the context of the next Comprehensive Spending Review period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053816%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257968"}},{"id":"257967","reference":"AQW 53815/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-03","answerBy":"2016-02-18","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is encouraging school-leavers to choose to study at Northern Ireland universities.","answerText":"‘Graduating to Success’, Northern Ireland’s higher education strategy, commits my Department to ensuring that prospective learners have access to relevant, high quality information in order to allow them to make informed decisions regarding their participation in higher education.\n\nTo meet this commitment my officials worked with higher education institutions to review and improve the available information regarding higher education in general and the sector in Northern Ireland in particular. This review included information on courses, financial support, the cost of living, learner satisfaction, and other relevant information. This information can be accessed through the NI Direct website as well as individual institution websites.\n\nAs well as this, my Department continues to work with the other UK higher education funding bodies to ensure that high quality information regarding higher education is available from a range of sources including the National Student Survey, Unistats and the Destination of Leavers in Higher Education Survey.\n\nTaken together, the information published about studying at Northern Ireland universities encourages school-leavers, with the support of careers advisers and others, to make the choice that is right for them in terms of their personal and professional development goals.","answerHtml":"‘Graduating to Success’, Northern Ireland’s higher education strategy, commits my Department to ensuring that prospective learners have access to relevant, high quality information in order to allow them to make informed decisions regarding their participation in higher education.
To meet this commitment my officials worked with higher education institutions to review and improve the available information regarding higher education in general and the sector in Northern Ireland in particular. This review included information on courses, financial support, the cost of living, learner satisfaction, and other relevant information. This information can be accessed through the NI Direct website as well as individual institution websites.
As well as this, my Department continues to work with the other UK higher education funding bodies to ensure that high quality information regarding higher education is available from a range of sources including the National Student Survey, Unistats and the Destination of Leavers in Higher Education Survey.
Taken together, the information published about studying at Northern Ireland universities encourages school-leavers, with the support of careers advisers and others, to make the choice that is right for them in terms of their personal and professional development goals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053815%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257967","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257967"}},{"id":"257919","reference":"AQW 53767/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-03","answerBy":"2016-02-18","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of hospitalised patients that are currently waiting for a place in a residential, nursing or care home in the (i) the Northern; and (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"My department has set a target that 90% of complex discharges from an acute hospital are discharged within 48 hours. A discharge is regarded as complex when it can only take place following the implementation of a significant home based or other community based service, including residential or nursing home services.\n\nAt 4th February 2016, there were 5 patients in the Northern HSC Trust and 6 patients in the Western HSC Trust whose discharge from hospital had been delayed longer than the agreed 48 hours, due to a lack of available nursing home, residential home or EMI (Elderly Mentally Infirm) beds.","answerHtml":"My department has set a target that 90% of complex discharges from an acute hospital are discharged within 48 hours. A discharge is regarded as complex when it can only take place following the implementation of a significant home based or other community based service, including residential or nursing home services.
At 4th February 2016, there were 5 patients in the Northern HSC Trust and 6 patients in the Western HSC Trust whose discharge from hospital had been delayed longer than the agreed 48 hours, due to a lack of available nursing home, residential home or EMI (Elderly Mentally Infirm) beds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053767%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257919"}},{"id":"257918","reference":"AQW 53766/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-03","answerBy":"2016-02-18","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the additional pressure on hospitals caused by patients that cannot be discharged because of a lack of available places in nursing or care homes.","answerText":"My Department has set a target for Health and Social Care Trusts that 90% of complex discharges from an acute hospital take place within 48 hours with no complex discharge taking more than seven days. The latest available information in respect of complex discharges shows that in October 2015 there were 57 patients whose discharge was delayed more than 48 hours because no residential home, nursing home or Elderly Mentally Infirm beds were available. It is not known how many of these patients required twenty-four hour care.\n\nThe Unscheduled Care Network, jointly led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, is actively investigating possible solutions to improve discharge performance. In the meantime Health and Social Care Trusts monitor patient discharges and have local measures in place to mitigate the effects of delayed discharges.","answerHtml":"My Department has set a target for Health and Social Care Trusts that 90% of complex discharges from an acute hospital take place within 48 hours with no complex discharge taking more than seven days. The latest available information in respect of complex discharges shows that in October 2015 there were 57 patients whose discharge was delayed more than 48 hours because no residential home, nursing home or Elderly Mentally Infirm beds were available. It is not known how many of these patients required twenty-four hour care.
The Unscheduled Care Network, jointly led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, is actively investigating possible solutions to improve discharge performance. In the meantime Health and Social Care Trusts monitor patient discharges and have local measures in place to mitigate the effects of delayed discharges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053766%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257918","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257918"}},{"id":"257917","reference":"AQW 53765/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-03","answerBy":"2016-02-18","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current number of hospitalised patients that require twenty-four hour care but cannot be discharged from hospital as a result of a lack of available places in nursing or care homes.","answerText":"My Department has set a target for Health and Social Care Trusts that 90% of complex discharges from an acute hospital take place within 48 hours with no complex discharge taking more than seven days. The latest available information in respect of complex discharges shows that in October 2015 there were 57 patients whose discharge was delayed more than 48 hours because no residential home, nursing home or Elderly Mentally Infirm beds were available. It is not known how many of these patients required twenty-four hour care.\n\nThe Unscheduled Care Network, jointly led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, is actively investigating possible solutions to improve discharge performance. In the meantime Health and Social Care Trusts monitor patient discharges and have local measures in place to mitigate the effects of delayed discharges.","answerHtml":"My Department has set a target for Health and Social Care Trusts that 90% of complex discharges from an acute hospital take place within 48 hours with no complex discharge taking more than seven days. The latest available information in respect of complex discharges shows that in October 2015 there were 57 patients whose discharge was delayed more than 48 hours because no residential home, nursing home or Elderly Mentally Infirm beds were available. It is not known how many of these patients required twenty-four hour care.
The Unscheduled Care Network, jointly led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, is actively investigating possible solutions to improve discharge performance. In the meantime Health and Social Care Trusts monitor patient discharges and have local measures in place to mitigate the effects of delayed discharges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053765%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257917","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257917"}},{"id":"257598","reference":"AQW 53730/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-02","answerBy":"2016-02-17","answered":"2016-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is working with the Minister of Education to develop partnerships between companies and schools so that young people are encouraged to develop careers in industries that are facing a present or projected skills shortage.","answerText":"My Department has established a number of working groups, which I chair and co chair, in sectors which have been identified as vital to rebalancing the Northern Ireland economy and providing economically relevant skills to the workforce. The Department of Education is also represented on these groups which include the advanced manufacturing, food processing and ICT sectors to identify and address the skills challenges facing each sector.\n\nThe groups bring together government, academia and local employers to identify skills needs associated with the particular sector and develop appropriate solutions through an agreed Action Plan. A number of key programmes have been put in place to promote the sectors, increase attractiveness and ensure employees and prospective employees have the required skills. Through the action plan the groups work with employers and career attractiveness campaigns feature prominently to help encourage career choices in each sector to help long term skill shortages.\n\nMy Department also works closely with the Department of Education, as well as other relevant departments and industry representatives, to deliver against the recommendations set out in the STEM Strategy for Northern Ireland: Success through STEM, to deliver a skills pipeline in science, technology, engineering and maths. Evidence continues to highlight that growing the number of economically relevant STEM qualifications will be central to Northern Ireland’s economic success and it is essential that our young people are encouraged to follow study and careers in STEM.\n\nI also recently established, with Minister O’Dowd, a Careers Advisory Forum which includes representatives from business, education and other key stakeholders. A key role of the Forum is to facilitate engagement between employers, educators and other stakeholders, and to improve employer links with schools at a local level.\n\nMy Department is also developing a work experience system which will improve access to placement opportunities for all young people, highlighting areas where we anticipate employment growth, and provide a platform for employers to promote their sectors.","answerHtml":"My Department has established a number of working groups, which I chair and co chair, in sectors which have been identified as vital to rebalancing the Northern Ireland economy and providing economically relevant skills to the workforce. The Department of Education is also represented on these groups which include the advanced manufacturing, food processing and ICT sectors to identify and address the skills challenges facing each sector.
The groups bring together government, academia and local employers to identify skills needs associated with the particular sector and develop appropriate solutions through an agreed Action Plan. A number of key programmes have been put in place to promote the sectors, increase attractiveness and ensure employees and prospective employees have the required skills. Through the action plan the groups work with employers and career attractiveness campaigns feature prominently to help encourage career choices in each sector to help long term skill shortages.
My Department also works closely with the Department of Education, as well as other relevant departments and industry representatives, to deliver against the recommendations set out in the STEM Strategy for Northern Ireland: Success through STEM, to deliver a skills pipeline in science, technology, engineering and maths. Evidence continues to highlight that growing the number of economically relevant STEM qualifications will be central to Northern Ireland’s economic success and it is essential that our young people are encouraged to follow study and careers in STEM.
I also recently established, with Minister O’Dowd, a Careers Advisory Forum which includes representatives from business, education and other key stakeholders. A key role of the Forum is to facilitate engagement between employers, educators and other stakeholders, and to improve employer links with schools at a local level.
My Department is also developing a work experience system which will improve access to placement opportunities for all young people, highlighting areas where we anticipate employment growth, and provide a platform for employers to promote their sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053730%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257598","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257598"}},{"id":"257595","reference":"AQW 53727/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-02","answerBy":"2016-02-17","answered":"2016-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is encouraging the involvement of local industries and businesses with (i) schools; (ii) further education colleges; (iii) universities; and (iv) recruitment agencies as part of a long-term strategy to identify and address skills shortage.","answerText":"Employer engagement is at the heart of my Department’s approach to ensuring that a workforce with the right skills for the future economic success of Northern Ireland is developed.\n\nMy Department’s main source of information on emerging skills needs is the Skills Barometer, which was developed in conjunction with Ulster University. This provides detailed forecasts of the skill requirements for the Northern Ireland economy up to 2025. It includes an analysis of job growth, examination of the changing skills mix and a detailed review into the demand and the supply of skills for our economy, highlighting potential imbalances.\n\nThe forecasts within the model are based on a high growth assumption, which has identified an aspirational level of economic and employment growth, including the potential impact of a lower Corporation Tax rate in Northern Ireland. This scenario was adopted as planning will be essential if we are to achieve our economic ambitions of higher economic growth and improved prosperity.\n\nThe tool clearly highlights that there will be a strong need in our economy for people with intermediate and graduate level skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) related subjects. There will be growth opportunities for all skills levels across a range of sectors; however the focus will be predominately on higher level skills. It also identifies a strong emphasis on developing employability skills in order to secure employment.\n\nPartnership working with industry is key to identifying and addressing our skills needs. To this end, I have established a number of industry working groups, with a focus on priority sectors. These groups bring together business, academia and government and have developed action plans, through which specific sectoral skills issues are being addressed. The ICT Action Plan, for example, includes the employer led ‘Bring IT On’ campaign which aims to: improve the image of the ICT sector; to encourage individuals to consider the sector as a viable career option; and to encourage the workforce to seek skills in the areas required to pursue a career in ICT. As part of this year's programme the IT Industry will directly engage with over 150 secondary schools and 15 primary schools.\n\nWhile the main responsibility for linkages between schools and business lies within the remit of the Department of Education, Minister O’Dowd and I have worked together to establish the Careers Advisory Forum, which includes representatives from business, education and other key stakeholders. Part of the Forum's remit is to facilitate engagement between employers, educators and other stakeholders, and to improve employer links with schools at a local level.\n\nMy Department is also developing a work experience system which will improve access to placement opportunities for all young people, highlighting areas where we anticipate employment growth, and provide a platform for employers to promote their sectors.\n\nIn terms of encouraging the involvement of local industries and businesses with further education colleges, the six further education colleges play an important role in engaging with local industries and businesses to address skills needs through the delivery of the Employer Support Programme across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Employer Support Programme is a skills development programme consisting of two strands; Skills Focus, which aims to increase the skills levels and employability of a business’s existing workforce to qualifications at level 2 and above; and InnovateUs which delivers the skills necessary to engage in innovation activity.\n\nIn delivering the Employer Support Programme, colleges focus on engaging directly with and providing support to employers through identifying future skills needs, in collaboration with employers/skills groups, and being both proactive and reactive to employer skills needs in order to provide tailored skills provision.\n\nFrom a university perspective, the Northern Ireland Higher Education Innovation Fund (NI HEIF) provides the core, underpinning funding for the universities’ business and community engagement activities. NI HEIF is complemented by 'Connected' - a 'unique to Northern Ireland' programme which promotes collaborative working right across the higher and further education sectors enabling universities and colleges to collectively provide a “one-stop-shop” for companies wishing to access technology and knowledge capital, taking them right through the whole process from problem definition through to solution identification and implementation.\n\nIn addition to the study options offered by further and higher education, my Department offers a range of skills pathways developed in conjunction with industry to deliver on identified skills needs.\n\n‘Securing Our Success’, the new Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships, puts employers at the heart of a new Apprenticeship system, and I have established an interim Strategic Advisory Forum, comprised of employers, trade unions, providers of off-the-job training and other key stakeholders, to provide advice on key issues concerning implementation of the new strategy. In addition Sectoral Partnerships have been established to involve employers, employer representatives and curriculum experts from the further and higher education sectors in the design and provision of apprenticeships to ensure the needs of employers are met.\n\nThe Department’s Assured Skills programme is another area in which employer involvement is key. The programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies to Northern Ireland by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion.\n\nWorking with business to identify skills needs, a structured mechanism exists for collaboration between further education, higher education, InvestNI and the Department through the Assured Skills programme to design and deliver bespoke training programmes tailored to meet the needs of the individual companies. Through this collaboration, our colleges and universities are gaining direct industry experience, providing bespoke training, and thus making changes to the curriculum.\n\nThe Collaborative Skills Change Fund programme provides short term pre-employment training solutions to skills shortages. In the creative sector, for example, the Animation Academy and the Game Development Academy were developed in conjunction with employers, Northern Ireland Screen and colleges. Each Academy offered 16 participants the opportunity to uptake employment in their respective areas.\n\nThe higher education institutions also work collaboratively with employers. For example, the University of Ulster has worked with CME, Citi and SR Labs to develop and deliver a financial services academy for 13 participants. The programme will continue to work with employers and academia to meet the skills needs of local employers in Northern Ireland\n\nFollowing the recent ‘Fresh Start’ agreement, announced on 17 November 2015, which will see the devolution of Corporation Tax powers, a need now exists for speculative training to meet the anticipated demand in skills from employers. The devolution of Corporation Tax powers will change the landscape for business growth and employment and will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s ability to attract foreign direct investment and enable indigenous companies to re-invest savings back into their businesses.\n\nSpeculative Training will be used as an Assured Skills tool to assist in the delivery of a lower rate of Corporation Tax to employers. Research that is currently underway is considering which sectors speculative training should focus on and also how the training should be delivered.\n\nFinally, the Department’s Employment Service has an essential role in working with local industries and employers to help them find the people with the right skills for their business. The Department does not, however, deal directly with recruitment agencies.\n\nI trust that my response demonstrates the value I place on ensuring that partnership working with business is integral to my Department’s work in ensuring the appropriate skills for our economy both now and in the future.","answerHtml":"Employer engagement is at the heart of my Department’s approach to ensuring that a workforce with the right skills for the future economic success of Northern Ireland is developed.
My Department’s main source of information on emerging skills needs is the Skills Barometer, which was developed in conjunction with Ulster University. This provides detailed forecasts of the skill requirements for the Northern Ireland economy up to 2025. It includes an analysis of job growth, examination of the changing skills mix and a detailed review into the demand and the supply of skills for our economy, highlighting potential imbalances.
The forecasts within the model are based on a high growth assumption, which has identified an aspirational level of economic and employment growth, including the potential impact of a lower Corporation Tax rate in Northern Ireland. This scenario was adopted as planning will be essential if we are to achieve our economic ambitions of higher economic growth and improved prosperity.
The tool clearly highlights that there will be a strong need in our economy for people with intermediate and graduate level skills in Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) related subjects. There will be growth opportunities for all skills levels across a range of sectors; however the focus will be predominately on higher level skills. It also identifies a strong emphasis on developing employability skills in order to secure employment.
Partnership working with industry is key to identifying and addressing our skills needs. To this end, I have established a number of industry working groups, with a focus on priority sectors. These groups bring together business, academia and government and have developed action plans, through which specific sectoral skills issues are being addressed. The ICT Action Plan, for example, includes the employer led ‘Bring IT On’ campaign which aims to: improve the image of the ICT sector; to encourage individuals to consider the sector as a viable career option; and to encourage the workforce to seek skills in the areas required to pursue a career in ICT. As part of this year's programme the IT Industry will directly engage with over 150 secondary schools and 15 primary schools.
While the main responsibility for linkages between schools and business lies within the remit of the Department of Education, Minister O’Dowd and I have worked together to establish the Careers Advisory Forum, which includes representatives from business, education and other key stakeholders. Part of the Forum's remit is to facilitate engagement between employers, educators and other stakeholders, and to improve employer links with schools at a local level.
My Department is also developing a work experience system which will improve access to placement opportunities for all young people, highlighting areas where we anticipate employment growth, and provide a platform for employers to promote their sectors.
In terms of encouraging the involvement of local industries and businesses with further education colleges, the six further education colleges play an important role in engaging with local industries and businesses to address skills needs through the delivery of the Employer Support Programme across Northern Ireland.
The Employer Support Programme is a skills development programme consisting of two strands; Skills Focus, which aims to increase the skills levels and employability of a business’s existing workforce to qualifications at level 2 and above; and InnovateUs which delivers the skills necessary to engage in innovation activity.
In delivering the Employer Support Programme, colleges focus on engaging directly with and providing support to employers through identifying future skills needs, in collaboration with employers/skills groups, and being both proactive and reactive to employer skills needs in order to provide tailored skills provision.
From a university perspective, the Northern Ireland Higher Education Innovation Fund (NI HEIF) provides the core, underpinning funding for the universities’ business and community engagement activities. NI HEIF is complemented by 'Connected' - a 'unique to Northern Ireland' programme which promotes collaborative working right across the higher and further education sectors enabling universities and colleges to collectively provide a “one-stop-shop” for companies wishing to access technology and knowledge capital, taking them right through the whole process from problem definition through to solution identification and implementation.
In addition to the study options offered by further and higher education, my Department offers a range of skills pathways developed in conjunction with industry to deliver on identified skills needs.
‘Securing Our Success’, the new Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships, puts employers at the heart of a new Apprenticeship system, and I have established an interim Strategic Advisory Forum, comprised of employers, trade unions, providers of off-the-job training and other key stakeholders, to provide advice on key issues concerning implementation of the new strategy. In addition Sectoral Partnerships have been established to involve employers, employer representatives and curriculum experts from the further and higher education sectors in the design and provision of apprenticeships to ensure the needs of employers are met.
The Department’s Assured Skills programme is another area in which employer involvement is key. The programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies to Northern Ireland by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion.
Working with business to identify skills needs, a structured mechanism exists for collaboration between further education, higher education, InvestNI and the Department through the Assured Skills programme to design and deliver bespoke training programmes tailored to meet the needs of the individual companies. Through this collaboration, our colleges and universities are gaining direct industry experience, providing bespoke training, and thus making changes to the curriculum.
The Collaborative Skills Change Fund programme provides short term pre-employment training solutions to skills shortages. In the creative sector, for example, the Animation Academy and the Game Development Academy were developed in conjunction with employers, Northern Ireland Screen and colleges. Each Academy offered 16 participants the opportunity to uptake employment in their respective areas.
The higher education institutions also work collaboratively with employers. For example, the University of Ulster has worked with CME, Citi and SR Labs to develop and deliver a financial services academy for 13 participants. The programme will continue to work with employers and academia to meet the skills needs of local employers in Northern Ireland
Following the recent ‘Fresh Start’ agreement, announced on 17 November 2015, which will see the devolution of Corporation Tax powers, a need now exists for speculative training to meet the anticipated demand in skills from employers. The devolution of Corporation Tax powers will change the landscape for business growth and employment and will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s ability to attract foreign direct investment and enable indigenous companies to re-invest savings back into their businesses.
Speculative Training will be used as an Assured Skills tool to assist in the delivery of a lower rate of Corporation Tax to employers. Research that is currently underway is considering which sectors speculative training should focus on and also how the training should be delivered.
Finally, the Department’s Employment Service has an essential role in working with local industries and employers to help them find the people with the right skills for their business. The Department does not, however, deal directly with recruitment agencies.
I trust that my response demonstrates the value I place on ensuring that partnership working with business is integral to my Department’s work in ensuring the appropriate skills for our economy both now and in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053727%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257595"}},{"id":"257594","reference":"AQW 53726/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-02","answerBy":"2016-02-17","answered":"2016-02-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department identifies skills shortage by geographical area; and how skills shortage is being targeted, and respective skills developed, to support the needs of local industries.","answerText":"The Department for Employment and Learning provides a range of pathways and provision to meet the skills needs in Northern Ireland, primarily through our universities and further education colleges.\n\nThe Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, ‘Success through Skills – Transforming Futures’ articulates the overarching vision for the development of skills throughout Northern Ireland and provides the framework for developing further the skills base to meet this challenge and ensure that Northern Ireland has the skills base to support growth and prosperity.\n\nWe know that the economy we aspire to over the next decade and beyond will be increasingly dominated by demand for higher level skills, including those developed through higher level apprenticeships.\n\nI commissioned a Skills Barometer for Northern Ireland and my Department has worked with the Ulster University to develop this tool for forecasting skills needs. The initial report shows that under a high growth, low corporation tax environment, skills will be undersupplied in the economy. It is essential that we address these skills needs, so that we are able to fully gain the benefits of a lower corporation tax rate.\n\nSubjects related to science, technology, engineering, and maths - STEM subjects - will be in most demand reflecting the anticipated growth in the ICT, Professional Services and Advanced Manufacturing sectors. STEM qualifications will also be demanded by a wider range of sectors across the economy. The Department has led on the production of the STEM Strategy, ‘Success through STEM’ and we are making good progress in implementing this.\n\nThe UK Commission for Employment and Skills currently runs two large-scale employer surveys in alternate years: the Employer Skills Survey (ESS) and the Employer Perspectives Survey (EPS). The overall aim of the two surveys is to provide robust and reliable information and intelligence from UK employers on skills issues and workforce development activities.\n\nThe ESS is the larger of the two surveys and includes data based on over 4,000 completed interviews in Northern Ireland. It provides a detailed understanding of the level and nature of employer demand for new staff and the ability of the labour market to meet such demand, with data broken down by region.\n\nThis sets the context for then exploring imbalances and mismatches in the labour market that result from a lack of skills. UK results were available on 28th January and a NI toolkit is to be released on 10th March.\n\nMy Department is committed to working with and supporting employers to ensure local skills needs continue to be met in a growing economy, as evidenced by the Working Groups I established to engage with local industries. The six further education colleges play an important role in this in their local areas through delivery of the Employer Support Programme across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Employer Support Programme is a skills development programme consisting of two strands; Skills Focus, which aims to increase the skills levels and employability of a business’s existing workforce to qualifications at level 2 and above; and InnovateUs, which delivers the skills necessary to engage in innovation activity.\n\nIn delivering the Employer Support Programme, colleges focus on engaging directly with and providing support to employers through identifying future skills needs in collaboration with employers/skills groups, and being both proactive and reactive to employer skills needs in order to provide tailored skills provision.\n\nMy Department has also encouraged our universities to rebalance their course provision increasingly to economically relevant subject areas. The findings of the first report of the Skills Barometer underline the need for more graduates in STEM subject areas and provide further validation for my Department’s support for an additional 1,419 undergraduate STEM places and 234 PhD places in economically relevant areas since 2012.\n\nThe Northern Ireland universities play a critical role in driving sustainable economic prosperity through high quality, internationally excellent research and translating that research into successful innovation through knowledge exchange – central planks of both the Department's Higher Education Strategy ‘Graduating to Success’ and the Executive’s Innovation Strategy.\n\nHowever, the structure of the Northern Ireland economy leads to a lack of absorptive capacity for R&D in the NI business base. This presents a very real set of challenges which the Department seeks to address by directly supporting the innovation agenda, most notably through the Northern Ireland Higher Education Innovation Fund (NI HEIF) which provides the core, underpinning funding for the universities’ business and community engagement activities. NI HEIF is complemented by 'Connected' - a 'unique to Northern Ireland' programme which promotes collaborative working right across the higher and further education sectors enabling universities and colleges to collectively provide a “one-stop-shop” for companies wishing to access technology and knowledge capital, taking them right through the whole process from problem definition through to solution identification and implementation\n\n‘Securing Our Success’, the new Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships, aims to help provide the skills needed to rebalance and rebuild our local economy. The strategy puts employers at the heart of a new Apprenticeship system, and I have established an interim Strategic Advisory Forum, comprised of employers, trade unions, providers of off-the-job training and other key stakeholders, to provide advice on key issues concerning implementation of the new strategy. In addition, we have launched Sectoral Partnerships, involving employers, employer representatives and curriculum experts from the FE and HE Sectors to design and agree apprenticeship provision to ensure the needs of employers are met.\n\nFurthermore, working with Invest NI, the Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment (FDI) companies to Northern Ireland, by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available. Assured Skills support is also open to support existing companies which are considering expansion\n\nThrough its Collaborative Skills Change Fund, Assured Skills works collaboratively with companies, further education colleges and universities in all regions of Northern Ireland. The aim of the programme is to provide short term, pre-employment training solutions to skills shortages, in order to support the needs of local companies. One example of programme support to date is with SDC Trailers and MDF Engineering where the programme, in conjunction with Northern Regional College, provided a number of trained welders to fill job opportunities. Another example is training for Automotive/Electrician Panel Builders, in conjunction with Mallaghan Engineering and Contak Wiring Systems, which is currently being delivered in South West College, Cookstown Campus. These participants, following their period of training, will move into placement with the companies with the opportunity of gaining full time employment.\n\nFollowing the recent ‘Fresh Start’ agreement, announced on 17 November 2015, which will see the devolution of Corporation Tax powers, a need now exists for speculative training to meet the anticipated demand in skills from employers. The devolution of Corporation Tax powers will change the landscape for business growth and employment and will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s ability to attract FDI and enable indigenous companies to re-invest savings back into their businesses.\n\nSpeculative Training will be used as an Assured Skills’ tool to assist in the delivery of a lower rate of Corporation Tax to employers. Research that is currently under way is considering which sectors speculative training should focus on and also how the training should be delivered.\n\nThe Department’s Employment Service supports all businesses across Northern Ireland by providing a comprehensive range of products and services designed to assist employers to fill vacancies with appropriately skilled staff. This includes engaging proactively with employers to promote a better understanding of skills development.\n\nThe Employer Engagement Team supports employers to grow their businesses, by ensuring that people of all skill levels are given individually tailored advice and guidance to gain the relevant qualifications and achieve the appropriate skills and experience to make them more employable and to address skill deficits within an area. The Team also assists with employers’ recruitment needs; a dedicated Employer Contact Manager (ECM) will be assigned to an employer when a request for assistance is received. ECMs are experienced in working with employers to deliver a high quality service and are focused on finding candidates with the right skills and attitude to match an employer’s needs.\n\nDuring the last financial year the Department hosted six major Job Fair events in Belfast, Londonderry, Ballymoney, Newry, Portadown and Newcastle. 9,067 people attended, 243 companies participated and there were a total of 4,231 jobs on offer to visiting jobseekers.\n\nI hope this gives a flavour of the important and comprehensive work which my Department is doing to identify and address skills shortages in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Department for Employment and Learning provides a range of pathways and provision to meet the skills needs in Northern Ireland, primarily through our universities and further education colleges.
The Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland, ‘Success through Skills – Transforming Futures’ articulates the overarching vision for the development of skills throughout Northern Ireland and provides the framework for developing further the skills base to meet this challenge and ensure that Northern Ireland has the skills base to support growth and prosperity.
We know that the economy we aspire to over the next decade and beyond will be increasingly dominated by demand for higher level skills, including those developed through higher level apprenticeships.
I commissioned a Skills Barometer for Northern Ireland and my Department has worked with the Ulster University to develop this tool for forecasting skills needs. The initial report shows that under a high growth, low corporation tax environment, skills will be undersupplied in the economy. It is essential that we address these skills needs, so that we are able to fully gain the benefits of a lower corporation tax rate.
Subjects related to science, technology, engineering, and maths - STEM subjects - will be in most demand reflecting the anticipated growth in the ICT, Professional Services and Advanced Manufacturing sectors. STEM qualifications will also be demanded by a wider range of sectors across the economy. The Department has led on the production of the STEM Strategy, ‘Success through STEM’ and we are making good progress in implementing this.
The UK Commission for Employment and Skills currently runs two large-scale employer surveys in alternate years: the Employer Skills Survey (ESS) and the Employer Perspectives Survey (EPS). The overall aim of the two surveys is to provide robust and reliable information and intelligence from UK employers on skills issues and workforce development activities.
The ESS is the larger of the two surveys and includes data based on over 4,000 completed interviews in Northern Ireland. It provides a detailed understanding of the level and nature of employer demand for new staff and the ability of the labour market to meet such demand, with data broken down by region.
This sets the context for then exploring imbalances and mismatches in the labour market that result from a lack of skills. UK results were available on 28th January and a NI toolkit is to be released on 10th March.
My Department is committed to working with and supporting employers to ensure local skills needs continue to be met in a growing economy, as evidenced by the Working Groups I established to engage with local industries. The six further education colleges play an important role in this in their local areas through delivery of the Employer Support Programme across Northern Ireland.
The Employer Support Programme is a skills development programme consisting of two strands; Skills Focus, which aims to increase the skills levels and employability of a business’s existing workforce to qualifications at level 2 and above; and InnovateUs, which delivers the skills necessary to engage in innovation activity.
In delivering the Employer Support Programme, colleges focus on engaging directly with and providing support to employers through identifying future skills needs in collaboration with employers/skills groups, and being both proactive and reactive to employer skills needs in order to provide tailored skills provision.
My Department has also encouraged our universities to rebalance their course provision increasingly to economically relevant subject areas. The findings of the first report of the Skills Barometer underline the need for more graduates in STEM subject areas and provide further validation for my Department’s support for an additional 1,419 undergraduate STEM places and 234 PhD places in economically relevant areas since 2012.
The Northern Ireland universities play a critical role in driving sustainable economic prosperity through high quality, internationally excellent research and translating that research into successful innovation through knowledge exchange – central planks of both the Department's Higher Education Strategy ‘Graduating to Success’ and the Executive’s Innovation Strategy.
However, the structure of the Northern Ireland economy leads to a lack of absorptive capacity for R&D in the NI business base. This presents a very real set of challenges which the Department seeks to address by directly supporting the innovation agenda, most notably through the Northern Ireland Higher Education Innovation Fund (NI HEIF) which provides the core, underpinning funding for the universities’ business and community engagement activities. NI HEIF is complemented by 'Connected' - a 'unique to Northern Ireland' programme which promotes collaborative working right across the higher and further education sectors enabling universities and colleges to collectively provide a “one-stop-shop” for companies wishing to access technology and knowledge capital, taking them right through the whole process from problem definition through to solution identification and implementation
‘Securing Our Success’, the new Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships, aims to help provide the skills needed to rebalance and rebuild our local economy. The strategy puts employers at the heart of a new Apprenticeship system, and I have established an interim Strategic Advisory Forum, comprised of employers, trade unions, providers of off-the-job training and other key stakeholders, to provide advice on key issues concerning implementation of the new strategy. In addition, we have launched Sectoral Partnerships, involving employers, employer representatives and curriculum experts from the FE and HE Sectors to design and agree apprenticeship provision to ensure the needs of employers are met.
Furthermore, working with Invest NI, the Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment (FDI) companies to Northern Ireland, by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available. Assured Skills support is also open to support existing companies which are considering expansion
Through its Collaborative Skills Change Fund, Assured Skills works collaboratively with companies, further education colleges and universities in all regions of Northern Ireland. The aim of the programme is to provide short term, pre-employment training solutions to skills shortages, in order to support the needs of local companies. One example of programme support to date is with SDC Trailers and MDF Engineering where the programme, in conjunction with Northern Regional College, provided a number of trained welders to fill job opportunities. Another example is training for Automotive/Electrician Panel Builders, in conjunction with Mallaghan Engineering and Contak Wiring Systems, which is currently being delivered in South West College, Cookstown Campus. These participants, following their period of training, will move into placement with the companies with the opportunity of gaining full time employment.
Following the recent ‘Fresh Start’ agreement, announced on 17 November 2015, which will see the devolution of Corporation Tax powers, a need now exists for speculative training to meet the anticipated demand in skills from employers. The devolution of Corporation Tax powers will change the landscape for business growth and employment and will greatly enhance Northern Ireland’s ability to attract FDI and enable indigenous companies to re-invest savings back into their businesses.
Speculative Training will be used as an Assured Skills’ tool to assist in the delivery of a lower rate of Corporation Tax to employers. Research that is currently under way is considering which sectors speculative training should focus on and also how the training should be delivered.
The Department’s Employment Service supports all businesses across Northern Ireland by providing a comprehensive range of products and services designed to assist employers to fill vacancies with appropriately skilled staff. This includes engaging proactively with employers to promote a better understanding of skills development.
The Employer Engagement Team supports employers to grow their businesses, by ensuring that people of all skill levels are given individually tailored advice and guidance to gain the relevant qualifications and achieve the appropriate skills and experience to make them more employable and to address skill deficits within an area. The Team also assists with employers’ recruitment needs; a dedicated Employer Contact Manager (ECM) will be assigned to an employer when a request for assistance is received. ECMs are experienced in working with employers to deliver a high quality service and are focused on finding candidates with the right skills and attitude to match an employer’s needs.
During the last financial year the Department hosted six major Job Fair events in Belfast, Londonderry, Ballymoney, Newry, Portadown and Newcastle. 9,067 people attended, 243 companies participated and there were a total of 4,231 jobs on offer to visiting jobseekers.
I hope this gives a flavour of the important and comprehensive work which my Department is doing to identify and address skills shortages in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053726%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257594"}},{"id":"257593","reference":"AQW 53725/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-02","answerBy":"2016-02-17","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what percentage of workplace vacancies are caused by a shortage of specific skills locally.","answerText":"The 2015 Employer Skills Survey (ESS) shows that the density of skill shortage vacancies in Northern Ireland at the time of fieldwork was 15%. This shows a decrease from the level measured in 2013 and is also below the 2015 UK level of 23%.\n\nThe ESS is managed by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills and the 2015 survey included 4,019 completed interviews with Northern Ireland establishments.","answerHtml":"The 2015 Employer Skills Survey (ESS) shows that the density of skill shortage vacancies in Northern Ireland at the time of fieldwork was 15%. This shows a decrease from the level measured in 2013 and is also below the 2015 UK level of 23%.
The ESS is managed by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills and the 2015 survey included 4,019 completed interviews with Northern Ireland establishments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053725%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257593"}},{"id":"257592","reference":"AQW 53724/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-02","answerBy":"2016-02-17","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the skills shortage locally, including within (i) construction; (ii) science, technology and engineering; and (iii) information and computer technology.","answerText":"In terms of skills gaps within the existing workforce, the 2015 Employer Skills Survey (ESS) shows that 91% of establishments in Northern Ireland felt that all of their staff were fully proficient at their job at the time of the fieldwork. This is higher than the 2015 UK average of 86% and an improvement on the level of 86% for Northern Ireland in 2013.\n\nIn other words, only 9% of establishments in Northern Ireland experienced skills gaps. These establishments reported ‘ability to manage own time and prioritise tasks’, ‘team working’ and ‘specialist skills or knowledge’ to be the most commonly found skills to be lacking among existing staff in Northern Ireland. Eighteen percent of these reported this having a major impact on their organisation’s performance and most significantly in terms of increasing workload for other staff.\n\nThe survey also showed that three per cent of establishments in Northern Ireland had at least one skill shortage vacancy, the same level as in 2013, but significantly below the 2015 UK proportion of 6%. Of these, establishments’ ‘ability to manage own time and prioritise tasks’, ‘customer handling skills’ and ‘specialist skills or knowledge’ were also the most commonly found skills to be lacking for skill shortage vacancies.\n\nThe 2015 UK ESS report published on 28th January 2016 presented results by sector and occupation at the overall UK level and can be found at www.gov.uk/government/publications/ukces-employer-skills-survey-2015-uk-report\n\nInformation from the 2015 survey for Northern Ireland will be published on 10th March 2016 which will include data on sector and occupation. However these will not directly map to the areas specifically requested, with the exception of construction. A copy of the NI toolkit will be forwarded to you once available on that date.\n\nThe ESS is managed by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills and the 2015 survey included 4,019 completed interviews with NI establishments.","answerHtml":"In terms of skills gaps within the existing workforce, the 2015 Employer Skills Survey (ESS) shows that 91% of establishments in Northern Ireland felt that all of their staff were fully proficient at their job at the time of the fieldwork. This is higher than the 2015 UK average of 86% and an improvement on the level of 86% for Northern Ireland in 2013.
In other words, only 9% of establishments in Northern Ireland experienced skills gaps. These establishments reported ‘ability to manage own time and prioritise tasks’, ‘team working’ and ‘specialist skills or knowledge’ to be the most commonly found skills to be lacking among existing staff in Northern Ireland. Eighteen percent of these reported this having a major impact on their organisation’s performance and most significantly in terms of increasing workload for other staff.
The survey also showed that three per cent of establishments in Northern Ireland had at least one skill shortage vacancy, the same level as in 2013, but significantly below the 2015 UK proportion of 6%. Of these, establishments’ ‘ability to manage own time and prioritise tasks’, ‘customer handling skills’ and ‘specialist skills or knowledge’ were also the most commonly found skills to be lacking for skill shortage vacancies.
The 2015 UK ESS report published on 28th January 2016 presented results by sector and occupation at the overall UK level and can be found at www.gov.uk/government/publications/ukces-employer-skills-survey-2015-uk-report
Information from the 2015 survey for Northern Ireland will be published on 10th March 2016 which will include data on sector and occupation. However these will not directly map to the areas specifically requested, with the exception of construction. A copy of the NI toolkit will be forwarded to you once available on that date.
The ESS is managed by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills and the 2015 survey included 4,019 completed interviews with NI establishments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053724%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257592"}},{"id":"257360","reference":"AQW 53672/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-01","answerBy":"2016-02-16","answered":"2016-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how much his Department has spent on (i) the Return to Work for Nurses scheme; and (ii) a one per cent pay increase for nurses.","answerText":"My Department commissions 32 places each year on the Return to Practice Programme at a cost of £39,372. This year an additional £83,666 of funding will pay for an extra 68 places on the Programme.\n\nThe 1% 2015/16 non-consolidated award, as announced on 8 January 2016 for Agenda for Change (AfC) staff, will cost an estimated £10 million.","answerHtml":"My Department commissions 32 places each year on the Return to Practice Programme at a cost of £39,372. This year an additional £83,666 of funding will pay for an extra 68 places on the Programme.
The 1% 2015/16 non-consolidated award, as announced on 8 January 2016 for Agenda for Change (AfC) staff, will cost an estimated £10 million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053672%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257360"}},{"id":"257359","reference":"AQW 53671/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-01","answerBy":"2016-02-16","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has considered the role of pharmacists in GP practices in order to better facilitate medicine management and prescribing.","answerText":"In December 2015, I announced a five year initiative that will see the additional investment in 2016/17 of £2.55m, rising to £14million per year in 2020/21, to put close to 300 pharmacists in GP practices by 2021.\n\nClinical pharmacists will work as part of the general practice team to help people optimise their medicines management, support effective prescribing and allow more GP time to be freed up to spend on people with complex needs, alleviating some of the pressures that are faced in general practice.","answerHtml":"In December 2015, I announced a five year initiative that will see the additional investment in 2016/17 of £2.55m, rising to £14million per year in 2020/21, to put close to 300 pharmacists in GP practices by 2021.
Clinical pharmacists will work as part of the general practice team to help people optimise their medicines management, support effective prescribing and allow more GP time to be freed up to spend on people with complex needs, alleviating some of the pressures that are faced in general practice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053671%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257359"}},{"id":"257358","reference":"AQW 53670/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-01","answerBy":"2016-02-16","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of people living on their own in East Londonderry, that are aged 70 years and over, and that have (i) applied for a 20 per cent reduction in their rates bill; and (ii) received a successful outcome to their application.","answerText":"In the current rating year to date (1st April 2015 to 31st January 2016), 160 people living in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency area applied for Lone Pensioner Allowance from Land & Property Services (LPS). Of those who applied, 149 received a successful outcome to their application.","answerHtml":"In the current rating year to date (1st April 2015 to 31st January 2016), 160 people living in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency area applied for Lone Pensioner Allowance from Land & Property Services (LPS). Of those who applied, 149 received a successful outcome to their application.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053670%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257358"}},{"id":"257357","reference":"AQW 53669/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-01","answerBy":"2016-02-16","answered":"2016-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the (i) number of children waiting for a special education needs assessment in East Londonderry; and (ii) average waiting time for receiving an assessment in the last twelve months.","answerText":"Following receipt of a request for a statutory assessment of a child’s special educational needs, the Education Authority (EA) is required to complete this process within the statutory timeframes outlined in the Education (NI) Order 1996 and the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs. Therefore, waiting lists do not apply in relation to such assessments.\n\nThe EA has advised that the number of pupils in East Londonderry for whom a decision has been made to carry out a statutory assessment and who were within the ten week period, allowed by statute, to complete the assessment, as at 31 December 2015, is 30.","answerHtml":"Following receipt of a request for a statutory assessment of a child’s special educational needs, the Education Authority (EA) is required to complete this process within the statutory timeframes outlined in the Education (NI) Order 1996 and the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs. Therefore, waiting lists do not apply in relation to such assessments.
The EA has advised that the number of pupils in East Londonderry for whom a decision has been made to carry out a statutory assessment and who were within the ten week period, allowed by statute, to complete the assessment, as at 31 December 2015, is 30.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053669%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257357"}},{"id":"257356","reference":"AQW 53668/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-02-01","answerBy":"2016-02-16","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to list the areas of East Londonderry where broadband speeds are 1MB or less.","answerText":"My Department does not hold or gather the information requested.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold or gather the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053668%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257356"}},{"id":"257167","reference":"AQW 53592/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-29","answerBy":"2016-02-15","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the continued exodus of nurses from the independent sector to Health and Social Care Trusts; and to detail how he will encourage greater staff retention within the independent sector.","answerText":"My Department is aware of recruitment and retention difficulties experienced by the independent sector. Nurses may choose to move from the independent sector to Health and Social Care Trusts for a variety of reasons including opportunities for career progression and enhanced terms and conditions of employment.\n\nMy Department has completed a Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Review, currently being considered by officials, which included the Independent, Voluntary and Private sectors. One of the recommendations is that all employers should review their recruitment processes and work to make their organisation an employer of choice to encourage both the recruitment and retention of nurses.\n\nMy Department recently launched a Career Pathway for Nurses and Midwives showcasing opportunities for development in a range of settings including the Independent Sector. The Career Pathway has profiled the Independent Sector as a means of encouraging staff to apply for positions there.\n\nEach employer is responsible for their own staff and for encouraging them to stay in their employment.","answerHtml":"My Department is aware of recruitment and retention difficulties experienced by the independent sector. Nurses may choose to move from the independent sector to Health and Social Care Trusts for a variety of reasons including opportunities for career progression and enhanced terms and conditions of employment.
My Department has completed a Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Review, currently being considered by officials, which included the Independent, Voluntary and Private sectors. One of the recommendations is that all employers should review their recruitment processes and work to make their organisation an employer of choice to encourage both the recruitment and retention of nurses.
My Department recently launched a Career Pathway for Nurses and Midwives showcasing opportunities for development in a range of settings including the Independent Sector. The Career Pathway has profiled the Independent Sector as a means of encouraging staff to apply for positions there.
Each employer is responsible for their own staff and for encouraging them to stay in their employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053592%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257167","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257167"}},{"id":"257166","reference":"AQW 53591/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-29","answerBy":"2016-02-15","answered":"2016-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) how his Department has taken account of the nursing workforce requirements of the independent sector in each of the last five years; and (ii) what mechanism is in place that requires independent sector employers to present their workforce data, including accurate figures for nurses working within the sector.","answerText":"A Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan has been completed by my Department and it is currently being considered by officials. The Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan considered the nursing workforce requirements of the independent sector and further recommended that the sector commission their own workforce review. I understand they have done so in partnership with the Royal College of Nursing. The sector is independent of the DHSSPS and is not obliged to provide workforce data to the Department.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Board and Public Health Agency are currently working closely with independent sector providers to review the current workforce within nursing homes.","answerHtml":"A Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan has been completed by my Department and it is currently being considered by officials. The Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan considered the nursing workforce requirements of the independent sector and further recommended that the sector commission their own workforce review. I understand they have done so in partnership with the Royal College of Nursing. The sector is independent of the DHSSPS and is not obliged to provide workforce data to the Department.
The Health and Social Care Board and Public Health Agency are currently working closely with independent sector providers to review the current workforce within nursing homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053591%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257166"}},{"id":"257165","reference":"AQW 53590/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-29","answerBy":"2016-02-15","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of vacant nurses posts in nursing and care homes in the independent sector that have been vacant for 6 months or more.","answerText":"My Department does not monitor recruitment activity in the independent sector.","answerHtml":"My Department does not monitor recruitment activity in the independent sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053590%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257165","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257165"}},{"id":"257164","reference":"AQW 53589/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-29","answerBy":"2016-02-15","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the reliance of the full implementation of Transforming your Care on the commissioning of services from within the independent sector.","answerText":"Transforming Your Care is about transforming the model of care we provide while making best use of the expertise and resources available.\n\nImplementation of service changes to deliver that model of care continues, focused on putting individuals at the centre of care and improving outcomes for patients and service users. The Independent Sector has an important role to play in the delivery of those flexible, responsive patient centered services.","answerHtml":"Transforming Your Care is about transforming the model of care we provide while making best use of the expertise and resources available.
Implementation of service changes to deliver that model of care continues, focused on putting individuals at the centre of care and improving outcomes for patients and service users. The Independent Sector has an important role to play in the delivery of those flexible, responsive patient centered services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053589%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257164","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257164"}},{"id":"257163","reference":"AQW 53588/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-29","answerBy":"2016-02-15","answered":"2016-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the projected registered nursing workforce that is required for the safe delivery of local health care; and (ii) how this projection is being strategically planned for.","answerText":"Responsibility for ensuring registered nurse staffing levels are adequate to provide safe delivery of care rests with each individual employer. £12million has recently been allocated by the Health and Social Care Board for extra nurses in acute surgical and medical wards. Future investment will focus on emergency departments, district nursing and health visiting. A Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan for Northern Ireland has been completed by my Department and is currently being considered by officials.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for ensuring registered nurse staffing levels are adequate to provide safe delivery of care rests with each individual employer. £12million has recently been allocated by the Health and Social Care Board for extra nurses in acute surgical and medical wards. Future investment will focus on emergency departments, district nursing and health visiting. A Nursing and Midwifery Workforce Plan for Northern Ireland has been completed by my Department and is currently being considered by officials.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053588%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257163","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257163"}},{"id":"257066","reference":"AQW 53558/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-28","answerBy":"2016-02-12","answered":"2016-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how he plans to support existing hotels in the North Coast area to gain maximum benefit from the staging of the Open Golf Championship in 2019 at Royal Portrush.","answerText":"The Open Championship in 2019 will be the largest event Northern Ireland has ever hosted. It offers exceptional opportunities to build a positive image of Northern Ireland and in particular the North Coast area internationally, help grow overnight visitor numbers and spend and consolidate Northern Ireland’s position as the home of great events.\n\nBased on visitor numbers and spectator forecast for the event it is anticipated there will be substantial demand for accommodation, not just in the North Coast area but across Northern Ireland.\n\nTourism NI is working closely with the R&A and the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) to ensure that the benefits are maximised for both accommodation providers and visitors. The R&A has engaged an operator to deliver a centralised booking facility for the event. The operator is planning a series of engagements with hotels to progress this.","answerHtml":"The Open Championship in 2019 will be the largest event Northern Ireland has ever hosted. It offers exceptional opportunities to build a positive image of Northern Ireland and in particular the North Coast area internationally, help grow overnight visitor numbers and spend and consolidate Northern Ireland’s position as the home of great events.
Based on visitor numbers and spectator forecast for the event it is anticipated there will be substantial demand for accommodation, not just in the North Coast area but across Northern Ireland.
Tourism NI is working closely with the R&A and the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation (NIHF) to ensure that the benefits are maximised for both accommodation providers and visitors. The R&A has engaged an operator to deliver a centralised booking facility for the event. The operator is planning a series of engagements with hotels to progress this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053558%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257066","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257066"}},{"id":"257065","reference":"AQW 53557/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-28","answerBy":"2016-02-12","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the Review of Tourism Accommodation Policy 2015-2020.","answerText":"My Department, in conjunction with Invest NI and Tourism NI (TNI), has undertaken a review of its policy regarding the provision of support to tourist accommodation providers in Northern Ireland. In taking forward this review consideration has been given to the strategic vision for tourism to 2020 and the many policies and strategies underpinning that vision.\n\nA stakeholder engagement exercise was undertaken and a formal consultation exercise on the key principles of a new tourist accommodation policy was undertaken in July 2015.\n\nMy officials have now developed an advanced draft policy which needs to be tested internally particularly given the recent developments in the accommodation sector in the last 6 months. In addition, as work on the development of a new Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland progresses, it will be important to ensure alignment between the Tourist Accommodation Policy and the new strategic vision for tourism in Northern Ireland.\n\nDepartmental officials will continue to work in conjunction with Invest NI and Tourism NI in considering these issues and refining the Department’s policy position regarding future Tourist Accommodation support. In the meantime Invest NI will continue to provide grant assistance to eligible projects under their current guidelines.","answerHtml":"My Department, in conjunction with Invest NI and Tourism NI (TNI), has undertaken a review of its policy regarding the provision of support to tourist accommodation providers in Northern Ireland. In taking forward this review consideration has been given to the strategic vision for tourism to 2020 and the many policies and strategies underpinning that vision.
A stakeholder engagement exercise was undertaken and a formal consultation exercise on the key principles of a new tourist accommodation policy was undertaken in July 2015.
My officials have now developed an advanced draft policy which needs to be tested internally particularly given the recent developments in the accommodation sector in the last 6 months. In addition, as work on the development of a new Tourism Strategy for Northern Ireland progresses, it will be important to ensure alignment between the Tourist Accommodation Policy and the new strategic vision for tourism in Northern Ireland.
Departmental officials will continue to work in conjunction with Invest NI and Tourism NI in considering these issues and refining the Department’s policy position regarding future Tourist Accommodation support. In the meantime Invest NI will continue to provide grant assistance to eligible projects under their current guidelines.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053557%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257065","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257065"}},{"id":"257064","reference":"AQW 53556/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-28","answerBy":"2016-02-12","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what funding is available for community and voluntary sector groups to participate in Integrated Care Partnerships in the (i) Northern and (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"There is a reimbursement process covering attendance at meetings related to Integrated Care Partnerships and travel expenses. Such payments are made to the representatives’ employing organisation.\n\nTo date £782 has been paid to ICP third sector representatives in the Northern Local Commissioning Group area and £4,241 in the Western Local Commissioning Group area.\n\nee","answerHtml":"There is a reimbursement process covering attendance at meetings related to Integrated Care Partnerships and travel expenses. Such payments are made to the representatives’ employing organisation.
To date £782 has been paid to ICP third sector representatives in the Northern Local Commissioning Group area and £4,241 in the Western Local Commissioning Group area.
ee
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053556%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257064"}},{"id":"257058","reference":"AQW 53550/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-28","answerBy":"2016-02-12","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of young onset dementia in Northern Ireland; and to detail any forthcoming strategies to mitigate future pressures on the health system caused by young onset dementia.","answerText":"It is estimated that there are almost 20,000 people living with dementia in Northern Ireland, and it is estimated that approximately 1,000 of those people are under the age of 65 years. Data on the actual breakdown by age of people living with dementia is not available.\n\nThe Department’s regional strategy on dementia was launched in 2011 and contained 44 recommendations. A number of those recommendations relate to younger people with dementia, particularly in relation to the development of care pathways. Currently two care pathways are under development: one for people with learning disability and dementia; and the other for younger (and older people) who require access to memory services.","answerHtml":"It is estimated that there are almost 20,000 people living with dementia in Northern Ireland, and it is estimated that approximately 1,000 of those people are under the age of 65 years. Data on the actual breakdown by age of people living with dementia is not available.
The Department’s regional strategy on dementia was launched in 2011 and contained 44 recommendations. A number of those recommendations relate to younger people with dementia, particularly in relation to the development of care pathways. Currently two care pathways are under development: one for people with learning disability and dementia; and the other for younger (and older people) who require access to memory services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053550%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257058"}},{"id":"257057","reference":"AQW 53549/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-28","answerBy":"2016-02-12","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether the Health and Social Care Innovation Fund will be used to fund community and voluntary sector groups to enable their participation in Integrated Care Partnerships.","answerText":"It is proposed that the Health and Social Care Innovation Scheme will provide funding to the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors to deliver innovative health and social care solutions.\n\nIt is not intended that the Scheme will support participation in Integrated Care Partnerships.","answerHtml":"It is proposed that the Health and Social Care Innovation Scheme will provide funding to the voluntary, community and social enterprise sectors to deliver innovative health and social care solutions.
It is not intended that the Scheme will support participation in Integrated Care Partnerships.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053549%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257057"}},{"id":"256819","reference":"AQW 53464/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-27","answerBy":"2016-02-11","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department has engaged with the disability sector since the end of the consultation period for the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities.","answerText":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nThe consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.\n\nThe consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.\n\nThe Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.\n\nIt remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.\n\nThe Executive Disability Strategy\n\nThe Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).\n\nThis overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.\n\nOne of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.\n\nThe key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.\n\nRural areas\n\nThe Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.\n\nThe strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.\n\nFour pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.\n\nTransport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.\n\nThe aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.\n\nThe Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.\n\nInvolvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy\n\nIn 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.\n\nThe group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.\n\nSpecifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.\n\nThese events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.\n\nMore importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.\n\nAs part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.\n\nIt is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.\n\nIn addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.\n\nEngagement with the sector since the consultation\n\nThe Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThe group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.","answerHtml":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities
The consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.
The consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.
The Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.
It remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.
The Executive Disability Strategy
The Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
This overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.
One of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.
The key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.
Rural areas
The Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.
The strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.
Four pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.
Transport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.
The aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.
The Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.
Involvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy
In 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.
The group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.
Specifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.
These events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.
More importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.
As part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.
It is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.
In addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.
Engagement with the sector since the consultation
The Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.
The group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053464%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256819","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256819"}},{"id":"256818","reference":"AQW 53463/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-27","answerBy":"2016-02-11","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how people with disabilities will be involved in (i) developing the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities' action plan; and (ii) measuring the effectiveness of the strategy when implemented.","answerText":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nThe consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.\n\nThe consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.\n\nThe Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.\n\nIt remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.\n\nThe Executive Disability Strategy\n\nThe Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).\n\nThis overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.\n\nOne of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.\n\nThe key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.\n\nRural areas\n\nThe Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.\n\nThe strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.\n\nFour pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.\n\nTransport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.\n\nThe aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.\n\nThe Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.\n\nInvolvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy\n\nIn 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.\n\nThe group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.\n\nSpecifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.\n\nThese events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.\n\nMore importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.\n\nAs part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.\n\nIt is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.\n\nIn addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.\n\nEngagement with the sector since the consultation\n\nThe Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThe group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.","answerHtml":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities
The consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.
The consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.
The Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.
It remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.
The Executive Disability Strategy
The Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
This overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.
One of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.
The key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.
Rural areas
The Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.
The strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.
Four pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.
Transport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.
The aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.
The Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.
Involvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy
In 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.
The group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.
Specifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.
These events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.
More importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.
As part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.
It is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.
In addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.
Engagement with the sector since the consultation
The Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.
The group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053463%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256818","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256818"}},{"id":"256817","reference":"AQW 53462/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-27","answerBy":"2016-02-11","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities has provisions to target rural areas.","answerText":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nThe consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.\n\nThe consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.\n\nThe Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.\n\nIt remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.\n\nThe Executive Disability Strategy\n\nThe Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).\n\nThis overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.\n\nOne of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.\n\nThe key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.\n\nRural areas\n\nThe Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.\n\nThe strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.\n\nFour pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.\n\nTransport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.\n\nThe aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.\n\nThe Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.\n\nInvolvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy\n\nIn 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.\n\nThe group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.\n\nSpecifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.\n\nThese events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.\n\nMore importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.\n\nAs part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.\n\nIt is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.\n\nIn addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.\n\nEngagement with the sector since the consultation\n\nThe Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThe group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.","answerHtml":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities
The consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.
The consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.
The Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.
It remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.
The Executive Disability Strategy
The Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
This overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.
One of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.
The key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.
Rural areas
The Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.
The strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.
Four pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.
Transport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.
The aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.
The Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.
Involvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy
In 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.
The group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.
Specifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.
These events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.
More importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.
As part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.
It is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.
In addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.
Engagement with the sector since the consultation
The Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.
The group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053462%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256817"}},{"id":"256816","reference":"AQW 53461/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-27","answerBy":"2016-02-11","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department’s Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities will dovetail with the Executive Disability Strategy.","answerText":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nThe consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.\n\nThe consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.\n\nThe Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.\n\nIt remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.\n\nThe Executive Disability Strategy\n\nThe Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).\n\nThis overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.\n\nOne of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.\n\nThe key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.\n\nRural areas\n\nThe Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.\n\nThe strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.\n\nFour pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.\n\nTransport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.\n\nThe aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.\n\nThe Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.\n\nInvolvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy\n\nIn 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.\n\nThe group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.\n\nSpecifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.\n\nThese events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.\n\nMore importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.\n\nAs part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.\n\nIt is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.\n\nIn addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.\n\nEngagement with the sector since the consultation\n\nThe Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThe group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.","answerHtml":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities
The consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.
The consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.
The Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.
It remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.
The Executive Disability Strategy
The Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
This overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.
One of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.
The key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.
Rural areas
The Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.
The strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.
Four pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.
Transport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.
The aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.
The Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.
Involvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy
In 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.
The group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.
Specifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.
These events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.
More importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.
As part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.
It is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.
In addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.
Engagement with the sector since the consultation
The Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.
The group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053461%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256816","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256816"}},{"id":"256815","reference":"AQW 53460/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-27","answerBy":"2016-02-11","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on his Department's Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities.","answerText":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nThe consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.\n\nThe consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.\n\nThe Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.\n\nIt remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.\n\nThe Executive Disability Strategy\n\nThe Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).\n\nThis overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.\n\nOne of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.\n\nThe key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.\n\nRural areas\n\nThe Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.\n\nThe strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.\n\nFour pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.\n\nTransport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.\n\nThe aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.\n\nThe Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.\n\nInvolvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy\n\nIn 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.\n\nThe group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.\n\nSpecifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.\n\nThese events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.\n\nMore importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.\n\nAs part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.\n\nIt is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.\n\nIn addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.\n\nEngagement with the sector since the consultation\n\nThe Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThe group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.","answerHtml":"Update on the Employment strategy for People with Disabilities
The consultation on the Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities closed on the 27 November 2015. 58 responses were received, 32 from individuals and 26 on behalf of organisations. In addition, information was gathered at four public consultation events, and two smaller events with specific disability groups, and these have been factored into the official response.
The consultation period has enabled all interested parties to provide feedback on each of the key themes and subsequent proposals. This has been broadly very positive, and in addition, a number of constructive suggestions have been made, which will inform the final strategy document.
The Committee for Employment and Learning has been briefed by officials and have been provided with a detailed summary and findings. The members were encouraged by the consultation feedback and remain very supportive of the strategy.
It remains the intention for the new Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities to launch before the end of February.
The Executive Disability Strategy
The Executive Strategy, launched in January 2013, entitled, ‘A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities’, makes a clear commitment to deliver the commitments in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD).
This overarching strategy sets out a high level policy framework to give coherence and guidance to government departments, and is based around a number of key themes, with associated strategic priorities.
One of these key themes is, ‘Employment and Employability’, and Strategic Priority 15 is to ‘work towards increasing the number of people with disabilities entering all levels of employment and safeguard the rights of those disabled people already in work’.
The key objective of the Department’s new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’, is, ‘To directly assist disable people to find, sustain and progress within paid employment, or to start up their own business’. Given also that the first two themes of this employment strategy are, ‘Empowering and supporting people to secure paid employment’, and, ‘Job retention and career development’, it clear to see the alignment and how the Department’s strategy will contribute to the achievement of the Executive’s disability strategy.
Rural areas
The Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities is aimed at people with significant disability related barriers to work, regardless of where they live or are employed.
The strategy has been developed in partnership with key representatives of the disability sector, many of whom provide services, programmes, and projects delivered through the Department’s European Social Fund (ESF), throughout and across Northern Ireland.
Four pubic consultation events were also arranged, in Armagh, Cookstown Belfast and Derry, and these were attended by various interested parties, including people with disabilities, as well as organisations who represent the interests of this customer group.
Transport and travel has been raised as a potential obstacle to employment for some, and it will be important for this issue to be considered, and addressed insofar as this is possible, through the implementation of the strategy.
The aforementioned Executive Strategy correctly highlights the fact that, ‘employment and employability are issues which require a number of government departments to work together to support people with disabilities to gain and retain employment’. Transport and access are undoubtedly issues which require a collaborative and cohesive approach, amongst statutory and non-statutory bodies alike, to provide solutions where they are required.
The Disability Employment Service, through its Access to Work programme, is providing direct transport support to approximately 350 disabled people who are in work, whilst many of the ESF programmes deliver dedicated travel training as part of their employability and pre-employment menu of provision.
Involvement of people with disabilities – developing and measuring the success of the strategy
In 2013, a Strategic Working group was established. This comprised officials from the Department for Employment and Learning’s Disability Employment Service (DES), along with a number of key representatives from the local disability sector, and other interested parties.
The group have worked closely on every aspect of the strategy, including the agreed aims and objectives, the drafting of the documentation, as well as the consultation and engagement process.
Specifically on the consultation and engagement issue, a number of major pre-consultation events took place throughout Northern Ireland during 2014. There were also a number of smaller, more local workshops at that time.
These events, organised and facilitated in partnership with the disability sector, were targeted primarily at people with disabilities, support workers, and organisations from the community and voluntary sector. Those attending, and the sector representatives involved in the organisation of these events, presented it as an example of how pre-consultation should look like.
More importantly, it was the discussions and proposals arising from these events, which helped inform the draft strategy that was issued for public consultation in September 2015, and the feedback received through this latest consultation process, will be reflected in the final strategy document.
As part of the strategy, the Department has committed to develop a framework that will ensure continuous and meaningful engagement between all of the key stakeholders, including people with disabilities. Specifically, and as part of the first year Action Plan, a new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum will be established.
It is proposed that this Forum will have a monitoring role with regard to the implementation and achievements of the new strategy, a direct input into the annual action planning process, and will also be asked to provide assurance on the alignment of the various NI Executive disability strategies.
In addition to senior officials from a number of key government departments, along with select employers or employer groups; people with disabilities, and key representatives from the local disability sector, will be adequately represented on the new Disability Employment Stakeholder Forum.
Engagement with the sector since the consultation
The Department has continued to engage with the Strategic Working group, who represent a large number of people with a full range of disabilities throughout Northern Ireland.
The group have received the summary feedback shared with the Departmental Committee. This was discussed at a meeting of the Group on the 9th February, along with plans for the launch of the strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053460%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256815"}},{"id":"256658","reference":"AQW 53443/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-26","answerBy":"2016-02-10","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the budget that will be allocated to the Active Ageing Strategy to enable its full implementation.","answerText":"Significant resources are currently deployed in providing a wide range of services for older people across Government. We have also set out at Annex B to the Active Ageing Strategy some key actions to be taken forward to help address some of the issues facing older people. It is our intention to take forward further actions as a second phase of projects (also listed in Annex B), subject to resources becoming available.\n\nOver the next Assembly mandate, we propose to undertake a more systematic review of the wide range of measures directed to improve the lives of older people in order to ensure that we achieve the maximum outcome for the significant resources deployed in this area.","answerHtml":"Significant resources are currently deployed in providing a wide range of services for older people across Government. We have also set out at Annex B to the Active Ageing Strategy some key actions to be taken forward to help address some of the issues facing older people. It is our intention to take forward further actions as a second phase of projects (also listed in Annex B), subject to resources becoming available.
Over the next Assembly mandate, we propose to undertake a more systematic review of the wide range of measures directed to improve the lives of older people in order to ensure that we achieve the maximum outcome for the significant resources deployed in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053443%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256658"}},{"id":"256657","reference":"AQW 53442/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-26","answerBy":"2016-02-10","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people waiting to receive domiciliary care packages in the (i) Northern Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on the number of domiciliary care packages delivered, by time waiting from completion of assessment to commencement of package and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust is collected by my Department and can be found in Table 1.\n\nTable 1. Domiciliary care packages delivered by time waiting from completion of assessment to commencement of package during quarter ending December 2015.\n\nHSC Trust\tTime from end of assessment to delivery of care\tTotal\nUnder 1 Week\t1 - 3 Weeks\t3 - 5 Weeks\t5 - 8 Weeks\t8 - 12 Weeks\t12 Weeks or more\nNorthern\t116\t233\t24\t11\t17\t17\t418\nWestern\t51\t6\t0\t0\t0\t0\t57\n\nSource: CC5 Community Information Return","answerHtml":"Information on the number of domiciliary care packages delivered, by time waiting from completion of assessment to commencement of package and Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust is collected by my Department and can be found in Table 1.
Table 1. Domiciliary care packages delivered by time waiting from completion of assessment to commencement of package during quarter ending December 2015.
| HSC Trust | Time from end of assessment to delivery of care | Total | |||||
| Under 1 Week | 1 - 3 Weeks | 3 - 5 Weeks | 5 - 8 Weeks | 8 - 12 Weeks | 12 Weeks or more | ||
| Northern | 116 | 233 | 24 | 11 | 17 | 17 | 418 |
| Western | 51 | 6 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 57 |
Source: CC5 Community Information Return
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053442%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256657"}},{"id":"256654","reference":"AQW 53439/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-26","answerBy":"2016-02-10","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail how older people will be involved in (i) developing the Active Ageing Strategy action plan; and (ii) measuring the effectiveness of the strategy as implemented.","answerText":"Annex B of the Active Ageing Strategy provides information on actions to implement the Strategy. These actions were chosen in light of the comments and priorities identified by consultees during the public consultation on the draft Strategy. Three hundred people, mostly older people, were involved in the public events as part of the consultation.\n\nIn addition we will explore with the department’s Ageing Strategy Advisory Group, which includes older people and members of groups representing older people, the best way to involve older people in the monitoring and review of the delivery of the Strategy.","answerHtml":"Annex B of the Active Ageing Strategy provides information on actions to implement the Strategy. These actions were chosen in light of the comments and priorities identified by consultees during the public consultation on the draft Strategy. Three hundred people, mostly older people, were involved in the public events as part of the consultation.
In addition we will explore with the department’s Ageing Strategy Advisory Group, which includes older people and members of groups representing older people, the best way to involve older people in the monitoring and review of the delivery of the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053439%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256654"}},{"id":"256653","reference":"AQW 53438/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-26","answerBy":"2016-02-10","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what proportion of the total budget for the (i) Northern Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) Western Health and Social Care Trust has been spent on domiciliary care packages and care within the community, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The proportion of the total budget spent on domiciliary care packages by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last three years is as follows:\n\n2012/13 – 8.13%\n\n2013/14 – 8.56%\n\n2014/15 – 8.43%\n\nThe proportion of the total budget spent on domiciliary care packages by the Western Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last three years is as follows:\n\n2012/13 – 5.20%\n\n2013/14 – 5.65%\n\n2014/15 – 5.93%\n\nCare within the community covers a wide range of services for adults and children it is not possible to provide details of the spend in this area.","answerHtml":"The proportion of the total budget spent on domiciliary care packages by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last three years is as follows:
2012/13 – 8.13%
2013/14 – 8.56%
2014/15 – 8.43%
The proportion of the total budget spent on domiciliary care packages by the Western Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last three years is as follows:
2012/13 – 5.20%
2013/14 – 5.65%
2014/15 – 5.93%
Care within the community covers a wide range of services for adults and children it is not possible to provide details of the spend in this area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053438%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256653"}},{"id":"256491","reference":"AQW 53386/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-25","answerBy":"2016-02-09","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) the staffing levels in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, (ii) its capacity to meet the demands on the service; and (iii) reliance on support from private ambulances.","answerText":"(i) The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) employs 1,285 staff. The frontline emergency ambulance tier of the service, comprising paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), has a funded establishment of 756 staff. There are no vacancies at paramedic grade and 80 vacancies at EMT grade. NIAS has been engaged in a comprehensive workforce stabilisation programme from March 2015 recruiting paramedics, EMTs and Patient Care staff. Two further EMT training programmes are scheduled to commence in 2016.\n\n(ii) The NIAS operates across Northern Ireland from 36 stations and 14 sub-stations, 2 Control Centres, a Regional Training Centre and its headquarters. Approximately 90% of the workforce is directly involved in the provision of services to patients. With this capacity the NIAS responds to approximately 150,000 emergency 999 calls and 40,000 GP calls per year. The Control Centre handles over 850,000 phone calls when dealing with this emergency and urgent workload. NIAS also operates a Patient Care Service for routine transport to and from hospital or inter-hospital transfers. Additional funding of £775,000 has been allocated to NIAS in 2015/16 and £1,077,000 recurrently from 2016/17 to manage increasing demand due to demographic growth.\n\n(iii) NIAS has a procurement framework in place to allow it to use voluntary and private sector ambulance services as support when there is an increase in demand, for example to help with patient flow during the winter months or with major events.","answerHtml":"(i) The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) employs 1,285 staff. The frontline emergency ambulance tier of the service, comprising paramedics and emergency medical technicians (EMTs), has a funded establishment of 756 staff. There are no vacancies at paramedic grade and 80 vacancies at EMT grade. NIAS has been engaged in a comprehensive workforce stabilisation programme from March 2015 recruiting paramedics, EMTs and Patient Care staff. Two further EMT training programmes are scheduled to commence in 2016.
(ii) The NIAS operates across Northern Ireland from 36 stations and 14 sub-stations, 2 Control Centres, a Regional Training Centre and its headquarters. Approximately 90% of the workforce is directly involved in the provision of services to patients. With this capacity the NIAS responds to approximately 150,000 emergency 999 calls and 40,000 GP calls per year. The Control Centre handles over 850,000 phone calls when dealing with this emergency and urgent workload. NIAS also operates a Patient Care Service for routine transport to and from hospital or inter-hospital transfers. Additional funding of £775,000 has been allocated to NIAS in 2015/16 and £1,077,000 recurrently from 2016/17 to manage increasing demand due to demographic growth.
(iii) NIAS has a procurement framework in place to allow it to use voluntary and private sector ambulance services as support when there is an increase in demand, for example to help with patient flow during the winter months or with major events.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053386%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256491"}},{"id":"256490","reference":"AQW 53385/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-25","answerBy":"2016-02-09","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of additional front line Northern Ireland Ambulance Service staff that have been (i) recruited; and (ii) trained in the last twelve months.","answerText":"The number of employees who took up post in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service via a recruitment process between 1 January and 31 December 2015 is given in the following table.\n\nInternal\tExternal\tTOTAL\nAmbulance Care Attendant\t18\t67\t85\nTrainee Emergency Medical Technician\t66\t0\t66\nEmergency Medical Technician\t16\t8\t24\nParamedic\t40\t8\t48\nRRV Paramedic\t5\t0\t5\nTOTAL\t145\t83\t228\n\nThe number of employees who were required to undertake a formal training programme prior to undertaking operational duties between 1 January and 31 December 2015 is given in the following table.\n\nInternal\tExternal\tTOTAL\nAmbulance Care Attendant\t0\t67\t67\nTrainee Emergency Medical Technician\t66\t0\t66\nTOTAL\t66\t67\t133","answerHtml":"The number of employees who took up post in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service via a recruitment process between 1 January and 31 December 2015 is given in the following table.
| Internal | External | TOTAL | |
| Ambulance Care Attendant | 18 | 67 | 85 |
| Trainee Emergency Medical Technician | 66 | 0 | 66 |
| Emergency Medical Technician | 16 | 8 | 24 |
| Paramedic | 40 | 8 | 48 |
| RRV Paramedic | 5 | 0 | 5 |
| TOTAL | 145 | 83 | 228 |
The number of employees who were required to undertake a formal training programme prior to undertaking operational duties between 1 January and 31 December 2015 is given in the following table.
| Internal | External | TOTAL | |
| Ambulance Care Attendant | 0 | 67 | 67 |
| Trainee Emergency Medical Technician | 66 | 0 | 66 |
| TOTAL | 66 | 67 | 133 |
The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority’s report of the review of the implementation of the Living Matters: Dying Matters Palliative and End of Life Care Strategy for adults was published on 28 January 2016.
I welcome the review’s findings that significant progress was made during the period 2010 to 2015 towards implementing the recommendations of the Living Matters: Dying Matters Strategy.
My Department will carefully consider the report’s findings and recommendations to inform the planning and delivery of quality palliative and end of life care in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053384%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256489"}},{"id":"256488","reference":"AQW 53383/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-25","answerBy":"2016-02-09","answered":"2016-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the (i) number; and (ii) percentage of businesses in the Causeway Coast and Glens area that are currently eligible for small business rate relief; and whether small business rate relief is being considered within the non-domestic rates review.","answerText":"Small Business Rate Relief is automatically awarded to all eligible businesses. At 31st December 2015, there were (i) 2,169 non-domestic properties in the Causeway Coast and Glens area currently benefitting from Small Business Rate Relief, representing (ii) 37.4% of all non-domestic properties in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.\n\nThe Executive's Budget for 2017/18 noted that the SBRR Scheme will continue to operate for an additional year while research is undertaken on potential alternative uses of funding in light of the evaluation work undertaken by the Ulster University Centre for Economic Policy.\n\nThe non-domestic review consultation paper highlights at Page 17 that \"proposals to replace the scheme will be taken forward as part of a separate consultation and will include input from the Department of Finance and Personnel, Department for Social Development as well as the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment\".","answerHtml":"Small Business Rate Relief is automatically awarded to all eligible businesses. At 31st December 2015, there were (i) 2,169 non-domestic properties in the Causeway Coast and Glens area currently benefitting from Small Business Rate Relief, representing (ii) 37.4% of all non-domestic properties in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.
The Executive's Budget for 2017/18 noted that the SBRR Scheme will continue to operate for an additional year while research is undertaken on potential alternative uses of funding in light of the evaluation work undertaken by the Ulster University Centre for Economic Policy.
The non-domestic review consultation paper highlights at Page 17 that "proposals to replace the scheme will be taken forward as part of a separate consultation and will include input from the Department of Finance and Personnel, Department for Social Development as well as the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment".
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053383%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256488"}},{"id":"256487","reference":"AQW 53382/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-25","answerBy":"2016-02-09","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of the impact that the stop-start nature of funding and frequent gaps between funding programmes is having on the ability of the community and voluntary sector to sustain their work within communities; and to detail what additional support they can offer to this sector.","answerText":"At the Executive Meeting on 16th April 2015, Junior Ministers were remitted to establish a dialogue with NICVA on an ongoing basis about the role of the voluntary and community sector and the challenges they are facing.\n\nJunior Ministers also gave an undertaking to report back to the Executive on any action that can be taken.\n\nJunior Ministers have met with representatives of the Voluntary and Community Sector, Ministerial colleagues and received briefings from officials.\n\nFollowing extensive engagement with Government Departments and the Voluntary and Community Sector, an Action Plan has been developed.\n\nThe intention is to present the proposed actions to the Executive for agreement after which the actions will be shared across departments.","answerHtml":"At the Executive Meeting on 16th April 2015, Junior Ministers were remitted to establish a dialogue with NICVA on an ongoing basis about the role of the voluntary and community sector and the challenges they are facing.
Junior Ministers also gave an undertaking to report back to the Executive on any action that can be taken.
Junior Ministers have met with representatives of the Voluntary and Community Sector, Ministerial colleagues and received briefings from officials.
Following extensive engagement with Government Departments and the Voluntary and Community Sector, an Action Plan has been developed.
The intention is to present the proposed actions to the Executive for agreement after which the actions will be shared across departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053382%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256487","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256487"}},{"id":"256286","reference":"AQW 53308/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-22","answerBy":"2016-02-08","answered":"2016-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the forecast shortfall in the number of vets in Northern Ireland; and how her Department are working with other stakeholders to address this situation.","answerText":"The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development does not have any formal system for forecasting the number of vets required for the north of Ireland. I am not aware of any evidence of an actual shortfall in the number of vets across the profession as a whole here, or across Europe, where there is free movement of qualified vets between all Member States.","answerHtml":"The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development does not have any formal system for forecasting the number of vets required for the north of Ireland. I am not aware of any evidence of an actual shortfall in the number of vets across the profession as a whole here, or across Europe, where there is free movement of qualified vets between all Member States.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053308%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256286","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256286"}},{"id":"256285","reference":"AQW 53307/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-22","answerBy":"2016-02-08","answered":"2016-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on progress to establish a veterinary school at Ulster University.","answerText":"Ulster University first proposed establishing a Veterinary School in 2013 and commenced the preparation of a business case to support this. While a full business case has yet to be presented to my Department, I understand that the University remains committed to the creation of a Veterinary School at the Coleraine campus and that discussions are ongoing with a number of relevant parties internally and externally. The University believes this would align with the existing Life and Health Sciences focus at the campus.\n\nVeterinary science is one of the highest cost courses to fund. In the current financial climate, when funding for the higher education institutions has been reduced, and undergraduate places withdrawn, it is very unlikely that funding will be available for veterinary science courses in the short to medium term.","answerHtml":"Ulster University first proposed establishing a Veterinary School in 2013 and commenced the preparation of a business case to support this. While a full business case has yet to be presented to my Department, I understand that the University remains committed to the creation of a Veterinary School at the Coleraine campus and that discussions are ongoing with a number of relevant parties internally and externally. The University believes this would align with the existing Life and Health Sciences focus at the campus.
Veterinary science is one of the highest cost courses to fund. In the current financial climate, when funding for the higher education institutions has been reduced, and undergraduate places withdrawn, it is very unlikely that funding will be available for veterinary science courses in the short to medium term.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053307%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256285","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256285"}},{"id":"256245","reference":"AQW 53267/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-22","answerBy":"2016-02-08","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of regional Integrated Care Partnerships; to detail the the funding they have received in each of the last two years; and how he plans to support the work of Integrated Care Partnerships going forward.","answerText":"The 17 Integrated Care Partnerships, established in June 2013, have made good progress in re-designing care for the 4 initial priority areas, namely Diabetes, Stroke, Respiratory and Frail Elderly. ICPs have been instrumental in the introduction of the Acute Care at Home service in Belfast Southern and South Eastern LCG areas; the piloting of Social Prescribing to support Frail Elderly service users, and the rationalisation of a regional Home Oxygen service.\n\nRather than having a ring-fenced budget of their own, individual ICPs advise their Local Commissioning Group on opportunities to commission services in a manner that could improve local service delivery. Ultimately it is the LCG who fund any such revised service. Administrative support and locum cover is centrally managed by the HSCB Integrated Care Directorate.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Board continues to work closely with Integrated Care Partnerships to support their work.","answerHtml":"The 17 Integrated Care Partnerships, established in June 2013, have made good progress in re-designing care for the 4 initial priority areas, namely Diabetes, Stroke, Respiratory and Frail Elderly. ICPs have been instrumental in the introduction of the Acute Care at Home service in Belfast Southern and South Eastern LCG areas; the piloting of Social Prescribing to support Frail Elderly service users, and the rationalisation of a regional Home Oxygen service.
Rather than having a ring-fenced budget of their own, individual ICPs advise their Local Commissioning Group on opportunities to commission services in a manner that could improve local service delivery. Ultimately it is the LCG who fund any such revised service. Administrative support and locum cover is centrally managed by the HSCB Integrated Care Directorate.
The Health and Social Care Board continues to work closely with Integrated Care Partnerships to support their work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053267%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256245"}},{"id":"256241","reference":"AQW 53263/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-22","answerBy":"2016-02-08","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on piloting the Atrial Fibrillation Local Enhanced Service in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust Area.","answerText":"The UK National Screening Committee recommend that screening for AF should not be offered.\n\nThe Trust is currently considering ways of meeting the Stroke Commissioning Specification with regard to identification and management of AF without contravening the advice of the UK National Screening Committee. It is a hoped that a proposal will be submitted for consideration before the end of the 15/16 financial year.","answerHtml":"The UK National Screening Committee recommend that screening for AF should not be offered.
The Trust is currently considering ways of meeting the Stroke Commissioning Specification with regard to identification and management of AF without contravening the advice of the UK National Screening Committee. It is a hoped that a proposal will be submitted for consideration before the end of the 15/16 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053263%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256241"}},{"id":"256240","reference":"AQW 53262/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-22","answerBy":"2016-02-08","answered":"2016-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for (i) an update on the establishment of a data centre in Coleraine; and (ii) his assessment of how this will benefit the regional and local economy.","answerText":"My Department has been working with the Causeway Coast and Glens Council to establish a pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine. HMT is currently considering a request for formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone and it is anticipated that this will be progressed in the coming weeks.\n\nI understand that the Council has been in discussion with a company which intends to establish a data centre in the Enterprise Zone. The establishment of such a centre would provide welcome investment in the area and the Council believes will act as a catalyst for the development of further digital and ICT investment in the Enterprise Zone.","answerHtml":"My Department has been working with the Causeway Coast and Glens Council to establish a pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine. HMT is currently considering a request for formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone and it is anticipated that this will be progressed in the coming weeks.
I understand that the Council has been in discussion with a company which intends to establish a data centre in the Enterprise Zone. The establishment of such a centre would provide welcome investment in the area and the Council believes will act as a catalyst for the development of further digital and ICT investment in the Enterprise Zone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053262%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256240"}},{"id":"256117","reference":"AQW 53206/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-21","answerBy":"2016-02-05","answered":"2016-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 52772/11-16, to outline an intended timescale for the start of work in this scheme.","answerText":"As outlined in response to AQW 52772/11–16, my officials have prepared a report addressing the recommendations arising from the Public Inquiry and are currently reviewing the extent of this scheme which can be built with the funding allocations in the December 2015 Budget Statement.\n\nThe indicative allocations for the 2017/18 – 2020/21 period will allow my Department to construct elements of the A6 Londonderry to Dungiven scheme, which includes a bypass of Dungiven. Subject to making the statutory orders, approval of the final business case and successful procurement, it is possible that the first phase of the Londonderry – Dungiven scheme could commence in the latter part of 2018/19.","answerHtml":"As outlined in response to AQW 52772/11–16, my officials have prepared a report addressing the recommendations arising from the Public Inquiry and are currently reviewing the extent of this scheme which can be built with the funding allocations in the December 2015 Budget Statement.
The indicative allocations for the 2017/18 – 2020/21 period will allow my Department to construct elements of the A6 Londonderry to Dungiven scheme, which includes a bypass of Dungiven. Subject to making the statutory orders, approval of the final business case and successful procurement, it is possible that the first phase of the Londonderry – Dungiven scheme could commence in the latter part of 2018/19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053206%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256117"}},{"id":"256116","reference":"AQW 53205/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-21","answerBy":"2016-02-05","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the funding allocated to the Public Health Agency to deliver sexual health education in schools; (ii) the proportion of money allocated which remained unused; and (iii) which schools have utilised the services of the Public Health Agency to provide sexual health education, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"My Department does not allocate a specific amount of funding to the PHA to deliver sexual health education in schools. A regional training programme to support teachers and schools to meet their statutory responsibility for Relationship and Sexuality Education is provided by the Sexual Health Team in Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. This is done in partnership with the Education Authority and local Health and Social Care Trust Health Improvement Departments. The model consists of a teacher training course followed by Whole School Training. The Public Health Agency provides an annual contribution of £17,687 to cover backfill for teachers attending the training course. A list of schools trained in each of the last three years is below.\n\n2013/14\t2014/15\t2015/16\n2-day RSE Teacher Training Courses\tDominican College\tCampbell College\tRosetta Primary School\nHazelwood College\tGaelscoil an Lonnain\tSt. Patrick's Primary School\nOrangefield High School\tMalone College\tHoly Rosary Primary School\nSt Rose's High School\tSt Genevieve's High School\tCranmore Integrated Primary School\nLaurelhill Community College\tSt Louise's Comprehensive College\tCurrie Primary School\nNendrum College\tVictoria College Belfast\tSt Bride's Primary School\nSt Colmcille's High School\tAssumption Grammar School\tSt Oliver Plunkett Primary School\nStrangford College\tBallynahinch High School\tFort Hill Integrated Primary School\nThe Wallace High School\tBangor Grammar School\tClandeboye Primary School\nMethodist College\tFriends' School\tKillinchy Primary School\nMercy College\tGlenlola Collegiate\tBallymena Academy\nRathmore Grammar School\tLagan College\tCarrickfergus College\nRoyal Belfast Academical Institution\tNewtownbreda High School\tDunclug College\nWellington College\tOur Lady & St Patrick's College\tNorth Coast Integrated College\nDe La Salle High School\tShimna College\tSt Benedict's College\nDundonald High School\tShimna College\tSt Louis' Grammar School\nKnockbreda High School\tSt Patrick's Grammar School\tSt Paul's College\nSt Mary's High School\tBallyclare High School\tUlidia Integrated College\nStrangford College\tDominican College\tBallyclare Secondary School\nBallee Community High School\tSt Mary's Grammar School\tOur Lady of Lourdes High School\nBelfast High School\tSt Patrick's College\tSt Aidan's High School\nColeraine High School\tMagherafelt High School\tSt Eugene's College (Roslea)\nSlemish Integrated College\tCastlederg High School\tSt Joseph's College\nSt Joseph's College\tSt Patrick's College\tSt Patrick's & St Brigid's College\nSt Killian's College\tLoreto Grammar School\tFoyle & Londonderry College\nSt Patrick's College\tSt Michael's College\tPortora Royal Grammar School\nMonkstown Community School\tStrabane Academy\tCollegiate Grammar School\nSt Mary's\tCraigavon Senior High School\nOakgrove Integrated\tChristian Brothers' Abbey\nLimavady\tCity of Armagh High School\nThornhill\tDrumglass High\nSt Fanchea's\tKilkeel High\nBanbridge Academy\tKillicomaine Junior High\nBrownlow College\tSt Columban's College\nDromore High\tSt Joseph's High School\nLurgan Junior High School\tSt Patrick's High\nSt Michael's Grammar\nSt Patrick's Academy\nDrumcree College\nDrumglass High\nSt Mary's High\nNewry High\nSt Mark's High\nSt Paul's High\nLurgan College\nSt Louis' Grammar School\nKilkeel High\nRoyal School, Armagh\nCookstown High\nKilkeel High\nOur Lady's Grammar School\nRoyal School, Dungannon\nWhole School Training\tClounagh Junior School\tSt Mark’s Warrenpoint\tJordanstown Special School\nLurgan College\tColeraine Inst\tSt Mary’s Newry\nAntrim Grammar\tHillcroft Special School\tLisnashally Special School\nRoddensvale Special School\tSt Joseph’s Primary Crossgar\tCambridge House\nSt Marys College\tMercy College\tKnockbreda Primary\nPortadown College\tDrumcree College\tTor Bank Special School\nRossmar Special School\tNewry High\tSt Patricks Downpatrick\nCullybackey High School\tStrangford College\tGaelscoil Iveagh parents\nSt Joseph’s Crossmaglen\tRoyal School Armagh\tLurgan College\nBloomfield Primary School\tWallace High School\tSt Michaels, Enniskillen\nBelmont house Special School\tNendrum College\tRostulla Special School\nCeara Special School\tDe La Salle College, Downpatrick\tPortadown College\nDevenish College\tLurgan High School\tDominican College\nSt Catherines College\tDundonald High School\tDean Maguirc College\nSacred Heart Newry\tSt Roses\tLoreto College\nHoly Cross Primary\tLimavady Grammar\tArdnashee Special School\nColeraine College\tSt Mary’s Limavady\tMitchell House Special School\nKilronan\tAughnacloy College\tKillard House Special School\nSt Catherines College\tSt Patrick Academy Dungannon\tRiverside Special School\nSacred Heart Omagh\tOakgrove Integrated\tClifton House Special School\nSt Louis grammar\tForthill College\tBelfast Hospital School\nHoly Cross Boys\tHilcroft Special School\tSt Mary’s Grammar\nRBAI\tBallymacward Primary\tSt Colm’s High School\nSt Finians\tSt Killians\tUlster University PGCE\nOrangefield\tGaescoil Iveagh\tCastle Tower SS\nSt Columbs\tSt Joseph’s Coleraine\tGlastry College\nAll childrens controlled school Newcastle\tRoyal School Dungannon\tDominican College\nBunscoil Ben Madigan\tBrownlow College\tSt. Ciaran’s, Ballygawley\nDominican College\tOur Lady’s and St Patricks Knock\tDungannon Integrated\nSt Columbs\tThornhill College\tLough Road Learning Centre\nDromara\tSt Patricks Maghera\tSt Patrick’s Dungiven\nElmgrove Primary\tLongstone Special School\tSullivan Upper\nVictoria College Belfast\nSt Michaels Lurgan\nMovilla High\nAll Children’s Primary Newcastle\nBallynahinch High School\nLarne Grammar\nWillowbridge School\nSperrinview Special School\nGlenlola College\nClarawood Special School\nColeraine High\nMalone College\nKilcooley Primary\nLagan College\n\nList of schools provided by Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.","answerHtml":"My Department does not allocate a specific amount of funding to the PHA to deliver sexual health education in schools. A regional training programme to support teachers and schools to meet their statutory responsibility for Relationship and Sexuality Education is provided by the Sexual Health Team in Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. This is done in partnership with the Education Authority and local Health and Social Care Trust Health Improvement Departments. The model consists of a teacher training course followed by Whole School Training. The Public Health Agency provides an annual contribution of £17,687 to cover backfill for teachers attending the training course. A list of schools trained in each of the last three years is below.
| 2013/14 | 2014/15 | 2015/16 | |
| 2-day RSE Teacher Training Courses | Dominican College | Campbell College | Rosetta Primary School |
| Hazelwood College | Gaelscoil an Lonnain | St. Patrick's Primary School | |
| Orangefield High School | Malone College | Holy Rosary Primary School | |
| St Rose's High School | St Genevieve's High School | Cranmore Integrated Primary School | |
| Laurelhill Community College | St Louise's Comprehensive College | Currie Primary School | |
| Nendrum College | Victoria College Belfast | St Bride's Primary School | |
| St Colmcille's High School | Assumption Grammar School | St Oliver Plunkett Primary School | |
| Strangford College | Ballynahinch High School | Fort Hill Integrated Primary School | |
| The Wallace High School | Bangor Grammar School | Clandeboye Primary School | |
| Methodist College | Friends' School | Killinchy Primary School | |
| Mercy College | Glenlola Collegiate | Ballymena Academy | |
| Rathmore Grammar School | Lagan College | Carrickfergus College | |
| Royal Belfast Academical Institution | Newtownbreda High School | Dunclug College | |
| Wellington College | Our Lady & St Patrick's College | North Coast Integrated College | |
| De La Salle High School | Shimna College | St Benedict's College | |
| Dundonald High School | Shimna College | St Louis' Grammar School | |
| Knockbreda High School | St Patrick's Grammar School | St Paul's College | |
| St Mary's High School | Ballyclare High School | Ulidia Integrated College | |
| Strangford College | Dominican College | Ballyclare Secondary School | |
| Ballee Community High School | St Mary's Grammar School | Our Lady of Lourdes High School | |
| Belfast High School | St Patrick's College | St Aidan's High School | |
| Coleraine High School | Magherafelt High School | St Eugene's College (Roslea) | |
| Slemish Integrated College | Castlederg High School | St Joseph's College | |
| St Joseph's College | St Patrick's College | St Patrick's & St Brigid's College | |
| St Killian's College | Loreto Grammar School | Foyle & Londonderry College | |
| St Patrick's College | St Michael's College | Portora Royal Grammar School | |
| Monkstown Community School | Strabane Academy | Collegiate Grammar School | |
| St Mary's | Craigavon Senior High School | ||
| Oakgrove Integrated | Christian Brothers' Abbey | ||
| Limavady | City of Armagh High School | ||
| Thornhill | Drumglass High | ||
| St Fanchea's | Kilkeel High | ||
| Banbridge Academy | Killicomaine Junior High | ||
| Brownlow College | St Columban's College | ||
| Dromore High | St Joseph's High School | ||
| Lurgan Junior High School | St Patrick's High | ||
| St Michael's Grammar | |||
| St Patrick's Academy | |||
| Drumcree College | |||
| Drumglass High | |||
| St Mary's High | |||
| Newry High | |||
| St Mark's High | |||
| St Paul's High | |||
| Lurgan College | |||
| St Louis' Grammar School | |||
| Kilkeel High | |||
| Royal School, Armagh | |||
| Cookstown High | |||
| Kilkeel High | |||
| Our Lady's Grammar School | |||
| Royal School, Dungannon | |||
| Whole School Training | Clounagh Junior School | St Mark’s Warrenpoint | Jordanstown Special School |
| Lurgan College | Coleraine Inst | St Mary’s Newry | |
| Antrim Grammar | Hillcroft Special School | Lisnashally Special School | |
| Roddensvale Special School | St Joseph’s Primary Crossgar | Cambridge House | |
| St Marys College | Mercy College | Knockbreda Primary | |
| Portadown College | Drumcree College | Tor Bank Special School | |
| Rossmar Special School | Newry High | St Patricks Downpatrick | |
| Cullybackey High School | Strangford College | Gaelscoil Iveagh parents | |
| St Joseph’s Crossmaglen | Royal School Armagh | Lurgan College | |
| Bloomfield Primary School | Wallace High School | St Michaels, Enniskillen | |
| Belmont house Special School | Nendrum College | Rostulla Special School | |
| Ceara Special School | De La Salle College, Downpatrick | Portadown College | |
| Devenish College | Lurgan High School | Dominican College | |
| St Catherines College | Dundonald High School | Dean Maguirc College | |
| Sacred Heart Newry | St Roses | Loreto College | |
| Holy Cross Primary | Limavady Grammar | Ardnashee Special School | |
| Coleraine College | St Mary’s Limavady | Mitchell House Special School | |
| Kilronan | Aughnacloy College | Killard House Special School | |
| St Catherines College | St Patrick Academy Dungannon | Riverside Special School | |
| Sacred Heart Omagh | Oakgrove Integrated | Clifton House Special School | |
| St Louis grammar | Forthill College | Belfast Hospital School | |
| Holy Cross Boys | Hilcroft Special School | St Mary’s Grammar | |
| RBAI | Ballymacward Primary | St Colm’s High School | |
| St Finians | St Killians | Ulster University PGCE | |
| Orangefield | Gaescoil Iveagh | Castle Tower SS | |
| St Columbs | St Joseph’s Coleraine | Glastry College | |
| All childrens controlled school Newcastle | Royal School Dungannon | Dominican College | |
| Bunscoil Ben Madigan | Brownlow College | St. Ciaran’s, Ballygawley | |
| Dominican College | Our Lady’s and St Patricks Knock | Dungannon Integrated | |
| St Columbs | Thornhill College | Lough Road Learning Centre | |
| Dromara | St Patricks Maghera | St Patrick’s Dungiven | |
| Elmgrove Primary | Longstone Special School | Sullivan Upper | |
| Victoria College Belfast | |||
| St Michaels Lurgan | |||
| Movilla High | |||
| All Children’s Primary Newcastle | |||
| Ballynahinch High School | |||
| Larne Grammar | |||
| Willowbridge School | |||
| Sperrinview Special School | |||
| Glenlola College | |||
| Clarawood Special School | |||
| Coleraine High | |||
| Malone College | |||
| Kilcooley Primary | |||
| Lagan College |
List of schools provided by Belfast Health and Social Care Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053205%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256116","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256116"}},{"id":"256115","reference":"AQW 53204/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-21","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, following his Department's approval of the outline business case for the redevelopment of HMP Magilligan in January 2015, whether capital funding will be made available in the 2016-2017 budget.","answerText":"It is for the Minister of Justice to prioritise his capital budget to meet the costs of the redevelopment. The Minister can also bid for additional funds as part of the forthcoming budget rounds. It will then be for the Executive to decide if additional capital funding should be provided to the Department of Justice.","answerHtml":"It is for the Minister of Justice to prioritise his capital budget to meet the costs of the redevelopment. The Minister can also bid for additional funds as part of the forthcoming budget rounds. It will then be for the Executive to decide if additional capital funding should be provided to the Department of Justice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053204%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256115"}},{"id":"256114","reference":"AQW 53203/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-21","answerBy":"2016-02-05","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what resources have been committed to the implementation of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2013-2020.","answerText":"There is no specific funding stream dedicated to implementation of priorities within the new ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy. Once the Strategy is published, each identified priority will be allocated funding via specific financial bids.","answerHtml":"There is no specific funding stream dedicated to implementation of priorities within the new ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy. Once the Strategy is published, each identified priority will be allocated funding via specific financial bids.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053203%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256114"}},{"id":"256113","reference":"AQW 53202/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-21","answerBy":"2016-02-05","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy 2013-2020","answerText":"The “Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland” Strategy was published on Tuesday 15 March 2016.","answerHtml":"The “Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland” Strategy was published on Tuesday 15 March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053202%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=256113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=256113"}},{"id":"257289","reference":"AQO 9514/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-21","answerBy":"2016-02-01","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to outline how community transport will be supported in the Accessible Transport Strategy.","answerText":"I recognise that for many within our rural communities, community transport is an essential part of the transport chain allowing people to access essential services and remain independent. The work being undertaken by the community transport sector is important and positively impacts on the well being of some of the most vulnerable and isolated in society.\n\nThat is why I sought and secured additional funding of £600,000 in the November Monitoring Round for these services to facilitate more trips for those who use community transport services. I have also worked closely with others within Government to deliver £800,000 of grant to assist with lease buy outs for vehicles thereby reducing ongoing running costs.\n\nThere were over 200 responses to the public consultation on a new Accessible Transport Strategy. Community transport services and how they provide an affordable travel option especially within rural areas was raised by a number of individuals and organisations who responded to the public consultation. This is consistent with feedback from pre consultation engagement on a new Accessible Transport Strategy which identified community transport as important and necessary in preventing social exclusion and isolation in rural areas.\n\nThe responses to the recent public consultation on a new Accessible Transport Strategy are presently being considered and will be used to inform what areas the Strategy needs to address and how it will be delivered.","answerHtml":"I recognise that for many within our rural communities, community transport is an essential part of the transport chain allowing people to access essential services and remain independent. The work being undertaken by the community transport sector is important and positively impacts on the well being of some of the most vulnerable and isolated in society.
That is why I sought and secured additional funding of £600,000 in the November Monitoring Round for these services to facilitate more trips for those who use community transport services. I have also worked closely with others within Government to deliver £800,000 of grant to assist with lease buy outs for vehicles thereby reducing ongoing running costs.
There were over 200 responses to the public consultation on a new Accessible Transport Strategy. Community transport services and how they provide an affordable travel option especially within rural areas was raised by a number of individuals and organisations who responded to the public consultation. This is consistent with feedback from pre consultation engagement on a new Accessible Transport Strategy which identified community transport as important and necessary in preventing social exclusion and isolation in rural areas.
The responses to the recent public consultation on a new Accessible Transport Strategy are presently being considered and will be used to inform what areas the Strategy needs to address and how it will be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209514%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=257289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=257289"}},{"id":"255968","reference":"AQW 53187/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-20","answerBy":"2016-02-04","answered":"2016-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is encouraging the development of links between Ulster University in Coleraine and further education colleges in Coleraine and Limavady.","answerText":"I believe that Further Education Colleges make a distinctive contribution to the overall provision of higher education in Northern Ireland. They have a particular strength in the provision of intermediate-level qualifications to meet the higher skills needs of local employers and regional communities.\n\nMy policy is to encourage the provision of Foundation Degrees offered in collaboration between the local universities and the regional colleges. Foundation degrees are professional and technical qualifications and have a major role to play in meeting the higher level priority skills needs of Northern Ireland. They equip learners with the combination of technical capabilities, academic knowledge and transferable skills at the associate professional and higher technician levels that employers are increasingly demanding.\n\nUlster University (UU) has taken a leading role in the validation of Foundation Degrees and has worked in collaboration with both the Northern Regional College and the North West Regional College in developing a range of Foundation Degree qualifications, including courses in Electrical / Electronic Engineering, Software Development, Sustainable Construction and Applied Medical Sciences.\n\nIn 2013, and again in 2014, I made increased funding available to provide an additional 75 full time higher education places at North West Regional College, and another 66 at Northern Regional College, in Foundation Degrees in STEM subjects. It is a matter for the senior management of each college to determine the location of specific courses across their campuses to best meet local demand.\n\nI can confirm that a foundation degree course validated by UU in Building Technology and Management is currently being delivered in Coleraine campus. Students on the Northern Regional College Foundation degree in Sport Exercise and Fitness use UU Coleraine sports facilities on a regular basis. I can also confirm that a Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Studies and a Foundation Degree in Counselling validated by UU are currently being delivered at the Limavady campus of North West Regional College.\n\nUU also collaborates with the colleges in the development of Access Diploma courses. These are key qualifications for widening participation in higher education, particularly for adult learners. Currently an Access Diploma in Social Sciences is being delivered at the Coleraine campus, and an Access Diploma in Combined Studies (Humanities) is being delivered at the Limavady campus. In addition, a small number of Level 3 Health Science students from the Limavady campus progress to degree provision at UU Coleraine in Nutrition. Northern Regional College has a sizable number of Level 3 students who progress to degree provision at UU Coleraine.\n\nDeveloping links include initial discussions between Northern Regional College Performing Arts Department at its Coleraine campus and UU Coleraine, concerning the potential to develop a Foundation Degree in Performing Arts. Northern Regional College is planning to undertake academic visits to UU to examine course delivery, modules, industrial links, etc with a view to developing a Foundation Degree to begin in September 2017. Northern Regional College, Coleraine Level 3 courses in Music, Performing Arts and Production Arts already have strong links with the Riverside Theatre, UU Coleraine.\n\nFinally, UU is also supportive of Northern Regional College establishing a Foundation Degree in Computing at Coleraine campus in September 2016 and a Foundation Degree in Business with IT commencing in September 2017.","answerHtml":"I believe that Further Education Colleges make a distinctive contribution to the overall provision of higher education in Northern Ireland. They have a particular strength in the provision of intermediate-level qualifications to meet the higher skills needs of local employers and regional communities.
My policy is to encourage the provision of Foundation Degrees offered in collaboration between the local universities and the regional colleges. Foundation degrees are professional and technical qualifications and have a major role to play in meeting the higher level priority skills needs of Northern Ireland. They equip learners with the combination of technical capabilities, academic knowledge and transferable skills at the associate professional and higher technician levels that employers are increasingly demanding.
Ulster University (UU) has taken a leading role in the validation of Foundation Degrees and has worked in collaboration with both the Northern Regional College and the North West Regional College in developing a range of Foundation Degree qualifications, including courses in Electrical / Electronic Engineering, Software Development, Sustainable Construction and Applied Medical Sciences.
In 2013, and again in 2014, I made increased funding available to provide an additional 75 full time higher education places at North West Regional College, and another 66 at Northern Regional College, in Foundation Degrees in STEM subjects. It is a matter for the senior management of each college to determine the location of specific courses across their campuses to best meet local demand.
I can confirm that a foundation degree course validated by UU in Building Technology and Management is currently being delivered in Coleraine campus. Students on the Northern Regional College Foundation degree in Sport Exercise and Fitness use UU Coleraine sports facilities on a regular basis. I can also confirm that a Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Studies and a Foundation Degree in Counselling validated by UU are currently being delivered at the Limavady campus of North West Regional College.
UU also collaborates with the colleges in the development of Access Diploma courses. These are key qualifications for widening participation in higher education, particularly for adult learners. Currently an Access Diploma in Social Sciences is being delivered at the Coleraine campus, and an Access Diploma in Combined Studies (Humanities) is being delivered at the Limavady campus. In addition, a small number of Level 3 Health Science students from the Limavady campus progress to degree provision at UU Coleraine in Nutrition. Northern Regional College has a sizable number of Level 3 students who progress to degree provision at UU Coleraine.
Developing links include initial discussions between Northern Regional College Performing Arts Department at its Coleraine campus and UU Coleraine, concerning the potential to develop a Foundation Degree in Performing Arts. Northern Regional College is planning to undertake academic visits to UU to examine course delivery, modules, industrial links, etc with a view to developing a Foundation Degree to begin in September 2017. Northern Regional College, Coleraine Level 3 courses in Music, Performing Arts and Production Arts already have strong links with the Riverside Theatre, UU Coleraine.
Finally, UU is also supportive of Northern Regional College establishing a Foundation Degree in Computing at Coleraine campus in September 2016 and a Foundation Degree in Business with IT commencing in September 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053187%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255968"}},{"id":"255966","reference":"AQW 53185/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-20","answerBy":"2016-02-04","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the number of qualified social workers in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The table below provides the most recent information available on the number of qualified Social Workers employed in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust;\n\nNHSCT Social work Workforce - Dec 2015\nProgramme of Care\tNumber\nChildren’s Services\t471\nAcute Services\t34\nCommunity Care\t158\nMental Health & Learning Disability\t162\nTotal\t825\n\nThe Trust’s Management Board is responsible for ensuring that there are sufficient staff in place to provide the safe and efficient delivery of all of the social work services for which the Trust has responsibility.","answerHtml":"The table below provides the most recent information available on the number of qualified Social Workers employed in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust;
| NHSCT Social work Workforce - Dec 2015 | |
| Programme of Care | Number |
| Children’s Services | 471 |
| Acute Services | 34 |
| Community Care | 158 |
| Mental Health & Learning Disability | 162 |
| Total | 825 |
The Trust’s Management Board is responsible for ensuring that there are sufficient staff in place to provide the safe and efficient delivery of all of the social work services for which the Trust has responsibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053185%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255966","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255966"}},{"id":"255965","reference":"AQW 53184/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-20","answerBy":"2016-02-04","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what support and information is available in the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trusts on the transition to adult mental health services for young people with learning disabilities.","answerText":"A young person with a formal diagnosis of learning disability will be formally transitioned into Adult Learning Disability Services. Similarly, a young person with a mental health diagnosis, who requires ongoing Mental Health Services, will transition (at 18) to Adult Mental Health Services.\n\nLearning Disability Services have the capability to manage an adult with learning disability and mental health (co-morbidity). However, if the primary presenting need was a mental health matter, there would be discussion between Mental Health and Learning Disability Services to determine the best fit for the young person, and a formal transition may be an outcome of this. This would be undertaken on a case-by-case basis and based on professional opinion.\n\nDepending on assessed need transitioning, young people may access a range of services where individual support will be available eg: short breaks; supported living; direct payments; building and community-based day activities; social work; OT; nursing and psychology.","answerHtml":"A young person with a formal diagnosis of learning disability will be formally transitioned into Adult Learning Disability Services. Similarly, a young person with a mental health diagnosis, who requires ongoing Mental Health Services, will transition (at 18) to Adult Mental Health Services.
Learning Disability Services have the capability to manage an adult with learning disability and mental health (co-morbidity). However, if the primary presenting need was a mental health matter, there would be discussion between Mental Health and Learning Disability Services to determine the best fit for the young person, and a formal transition may be an outcome of this. This would be undertaken on a case-by-case basis and based on professional opinion.
Depending on assessed need transitioning, young people may access a range of services where individual support will be available eg: short breaks; supported living; direct payments; building and community-based day activities; social work; OT; nursing and psychology.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053184%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255965","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255965"}},{"id":"255964","reference":"AQW 53183/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-20","answerBy":"2016-02-04","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the establishment of primary care talking therapies hubs in both the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"In the Northern Trust, primary care talking therapies hubs are currently in operation in Coleraine/Ballymoney and Carrickfergus/ Newtownabbey.\n\nIn the Western Trust, primary care talking therapies hubs are in operation in Londonderry and Omagh.\n\nEach hub is based around a group of GP practices in the relevant area in partnership with the Trust and local voluntary and community sector service providers. Both Trusts intend to make talking therapies hubs available across the whole of their respective areas, although this will be dependent on additional funding being made available.","answerHtml":"In the Northern Trust, primary care talking therapies hubs are currently in operation in Coleraine/Ballymoney and Carrickfergus/ Newtownabbey.
In the Western Trust, primary care talking therapies hubs are in operation in Londonderry and Omagh.
Each hub is based around a group of GP practices in the relevant area in partnership with the Trust and local voluntary and community sector service providers. Both Trusts intend to make talking therapies hubs available across the whole of their respective areas, although this will be dependent on additional funding being made available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053183%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255964"}},{"id":"255715","reference":"AQW 53073/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-19","answerBy":"2016-02-03","answered":"2016-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the progress of the post-19 Special Schools Transition Focus Group Action Plan.","answerText":"In May 2015, the Bamford Inter Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability agreed a cross Departmental Action Plan which seeks to offer improved support and services to help young people with severe learning disabilities to make the transition from school to adult services.\n\nThe Action Plan sets out a range of actions across government that aim to deliver improved support for this group of young people throughout Northern Ireland. These actions represent a snapshot of Departments’ existing commitments and associated scope for change. However, the Action Plan is also intended as a dynamic document that will be continuously amended and updated over time to take account of changes in Departments’ commitments and priorities.\n\nThe Action Plan was published on my Department’s website on 23 November 2015 (www.delni.gov.uk/publications/transitions-action-plan). Progress on the Action Plan will be monitored on an ongoing basis by the Inter Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability, with my Department monitoring progress on all the actions in the Plan from relevant Executive Departments and reporting on this through the Bamford Ministerial Group reporting mechanisms to help keep Ministers informed of progress.\n\nThis monitoring process has begun and an update on progress will become available after the next meeting of the Inter Ministerial Group.","answerHtml":"In May 2015, the Bamford Inter Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability agreed a cross Departmental Action Plan which seeks to offer improved support and services to help young people with severe learning disabilities to make the transition from school to adult services.
The Action Plan sets out a range of actions across government that aim to deliver improved support for this group of young people throughout Northern Ireland. These actions represent a snapshot of Departments’ existing commitments and associated scope for change. However, the Action Plan is also intended as a dynamic document that will be continuously amended and updated over time to take account of changes in Departments’ commitments and priorities.
The Action Plan was published on my Department’s website on 23 November 2015 (www.delni.gov.uk/publications/transitions-action-plan). Progress on the Action Plan will be monitored on an ongoing basis by the Inter Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability, with my Department monitoring progress on all the actions in the Plan from relevant Executive Departments and reporting on this through the Bamford Ministerial Group reporting mechanisms to help keep Ministers informed of progress.
This monitoring process has begun and an update on progress will become available after the next meeting of the Inter Ministerial Group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053073%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255715"}},{"id":"255714","reference":"AQW 53072/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-19","answerBy":"2016-02-03","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many dairy farmers have (i) diversified their farm business; or (ii) been put out of business, as a result of the recent dairy market crisis; and what support is available to farmers in these circumstances.","answerText":"Information of farm diversification was collected by DARD in 2013 as part of the EU Farm Structure Survey. The survey results showed that 11 percent of dairy farmers in the north of Ireland had diversified as part of their business activities. No information is available on the number of dairy farms that might have diversified as a consequence of the current market downturn.\n\nThe number of farm businesses that cease trading is not tracked and is not readily discernible from the mix of new start-ups, mergers, splits and transfers of farm ownership that is always occurring. A list of active farm businesses is maintained for statistical purposes and the table below contains information on total farm numbers at 1st June, with the change in number since the previous year.\n\nTotal and Annual Change in Farm Business Numbers 2011-2015\n\n2011\t2012\t2013\t2014\t2015\nNumber\t24,400\t24,300\t24,500\t24,200\t24,900\nChange\t-100\t-100\t+200\t-300\t+700\n\nSource: DARD, The Agricultural and Horticultural Census.\n\nCAFRE is working with dairy farmers through dedicated education and training programmes, as well as benchmarking, to help improve efficiency and embed greater resilience to market volatility within farm businesses.","answerHtml":"Information of farm diversification was collected by DARD in 2013 as part of the EU Farm Structure Survey. The survey results showed that 11 percent of dairy farmers in the north of Ireland had diversified as part of their business activities. No information is available on the number of dairy farms that might have diversified as a consequence of the current market downturn.
The number of farm businesses that cease trading is not tracked and is not readily discernible from the mix of new start-ups, mergers, splits and transfers of farm ownership that is always occurring. A list of active farm businesses is maintained for statistical purposes and the table below contains information on total farm numbers at 1st June, with the change in number since the previous year.
Total and Annual Change in Farm Business Numbers 2011-2015
| 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | 2015 | |
| Number | 24,400 | 24,300 | 24,500 | 24,200 | 24,900 |
| Change | -100 | -100 | +200 | -300 | +700 |
Source: DARD, The Agricultural and Horticultural Census.
CAFRE is working with dairy farmers through dedicated education and training programmes, as well as benchmarking, to help improve efficiency and embed greater resilience to market volatility within farm businesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053072%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255714"}},{"id":"255692","reference":"AQW 53050/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-19","answerBy":"2016-02-03","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of Transitions Officers in each Health and Social Care Trust that provide support to young people aged nineteen and over with learning disabilities that are transitioning.","answerText":"HSC Trust\tHeadcount\tWhole-time Equivalent (WTE)\nBelfast\t6\t3.46\nNorthern\tNo dedicated transition officers for this age group, however young people are supported through adult community learning disability teams\nSouth Eastern\tNo dedicated transition officers for this age group\nSouthern\t5 (plus a further 2 temporary staff)\t4.6 (plus a further 2.0 WTE temporary staff)\nWestern\t2\t1.6","answerHtml":"| HSC Trust | Headcount | Whole-time Equivalent (WTE) |
| Belfast | 6 | 3.46 |
| Northern | No dedicated transition officers for this age group, however young people are supported through adult community learning disability teams | |
| South Eastern | No dedicated transition officers for this age group | |
| Southern | 5 (plus a further 2 temporary staff) | 4.6 (plus a further 2.0 WTE temporary staff) |
| Western | 2 | 1.6 |
Specialist equipment for children with special educational needs (SEN) is provided either by the Education Authority (EA) or the local Health and Social Care Trust (H&SCT).
Through the statutory assessment process, and where there is evidence of need, the EA is responsible for the provision of specialist equipment for pupils with SEN whether in a mainstream or a special school. This includes equipment that a child needs in order to access their education, such as specialist seating; desks; hoists and toileting aids; adapted equipment and utensils to enable the development of play, independence, practical self-help skills and curriculum engagement.
The local H&SCT is responsible for providing pupils with specialist equipment to deliver therapy e.g. standing frames; sensory equipment; medical equipment to administer delegated nursing care, such as oxygen tanks and equipment to support mobility, such as walking aids, braces and wheelchairs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053049%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255691","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255691"}},{"id":"255690","reference":"AQW 53048/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-19","answerBy":"2016-02-03","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the financial support available from his Department for community and voluntary groups that meet the needs of older people.","answerText":"My Department does not deliver specific programmes targeted at meeting the needs of older people. However financial support, to community and voluntary groups, which includes support that meet the needs of older people, is available through programmes such as Neighbourhood Renewal and the Volunteering Small Grants Programme. Examples of projects that have received such support include:\n\nGood Morning North West;\n\nAge Concern in Londonderry;\n\nTriax Neighbourhood Partnership – Older People’s Programme for the Fountain Estate in Londonderry;\n\nWestern Health & Social Care Trust - Omagh Health and Wellbeing Project;\n\nWestern Health & Social Care Trust - Enniskillen Health and Wellbeing Project;\n\nSupport Communities - Campsie Community Hub;\n\nDevenish Partnership Forum - Devenish Community Support & Further Development Phase II;\n\nFermanagh & Omagh District Council - West End Temporary Venue;\n\nCoalisland and Dungannon NR Health and Social Wellbeing Programme;\n\nMilltown Super Adults Programme of Activities;\n\nCoalisland Training Services - Community Education Programme;","answerHtml":"My Department does not deliver specific programmes targeted at meeting the needs of older people. However financial support, to community and voluntary groups, which includes support that meet the needs of older people, is available through programmes such as Neighbourhood Renewal and the Volunteering Small Grants Programme. Examples of projects that have received such support include:
Good Morning North West;
Age Concern in Londonderry;
Triax Neighbourhood Partnership – Older People’s Programme for the Fountain Estate in Londonderry;
Western Health & Social Care Trust - Omagh Health and Wellbeing Project;
Western Health & Social Care Trust - Enniskillen Health and Wellbeing Project;
Support Communities - Campsie Community Hub;
Devenish Partnership Forum - Devenish Community Support & Further Development Phase II;
Fermanagh & Omagh District Council - West End Temporary Venue;
Coalisland and Dungannon NR Health and Social Wellbeing Programme;
Milltown Super Adults Programme of Activities;
Coalisland Training Services - Community Education Programme;
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2053048%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255690","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255690"}},{"id":"255475","reference":"AQW 52974/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-18","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the future of St Joseph’s College, Coleraine.","answerText":"My officials are currently collating all pertinent information linked to St Joseph’s College and the associated Development Proposals for Loreto and Dominican Colleges. This will enable me to make a decision in the near future based on the best educational interests of the young people in the area.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently collating all pertinent information linked to St Joseph’s College and the associated Development Proposals for Loreto and Dominican Colleges. This will enable me to make a decision in the near future based on the best educational interests of the young people in the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052974%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255475","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255475"}},{"id":"255474","reference":"AQW 52973/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-18","answerBy":"2016-02-02","answered":"2016-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when a decision will be made on development proposals for Loreto College, Coleraine; Dominican College, Portstewart; and St Joseph’s College, Coleraine.","answerText":"My officials are currently collating all pertinent information linked to St Joseph’s College and the associated Development Proposals for Loreto and Dominican Colleges. This will enable me to make a decision in the near future based on the best educational interests of the young people in the area.","answerHtml":"My officials are currently collating all pertinent information linked to St Joseph’s College and the associated Development Proposals for Loreto and Dominican Colleges. This will enable me to make a decision in the near future based on the best educational interests of the young people in the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052973%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255474","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255474"}},{"id":"255473","reference":"AQW 52972/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-18","answerBy":"2016-02-02","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the age at which a young person must leave a Moderate Learning Disability school; and whether this is consistent across all Education Authority regions.","answerText":"It is recognised that once a pupil commences a special school, he/she tends to access this provision until they are 16 years; in other cases, the placement is extended to 19 years. MLD schools, in the main, provide education up to age 16.\n\nFor some MLD schools, development proposals put forward by the Education Authority have been approved by me to extend the age at which pupils can attend these schools.\n\nThe member will be aware that I recently commissioned the EA to prepare, publish and consult on a regional area plan for Special Schools, following publication of the Review of Special School Provision report on 3 November 2015. The EA recognises that enhanced consistency with regard to post-16 provision in special schools will require redress by the Authority as part of this regional area plan.","answerHtml":"It is recognised that once a pupil commences a special school, he/she tends to access this provision until they are 16 years; in other cases, the placement is extended to 19 years. MLD schools, in the main, provide education up to age 16.
For some MLD schools, development proposals put forward by the Education Authority have been approved by me to extend the age at which pupils can attend these schools.
The member will be aware that I recently commissioned the EA to prepare, publish and consult on a regional area plan for Special Schools, following publication of the Review of Special School Provision report on 3 November 2015. The EA recognises that enhanced consistency with regard to post-16 provision in special schools will require redress by the Authority as part of this regional area plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052972%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255473","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255473"}},{"id":"255472","reference":"AQW 52971/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-18","answerBy":"2016-02-02","answered":"2016-02-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the availability of (i) supported employment opportunities; and (ii) suitable work experience placements for further education students with learning disabilities.","answerText":"My Department, particularly through its Disability Employment Service (DES), has an excellent and long-standing working relationship with the Northern Ireland Union of Supported Employment (NIUSE) and its many member organisations. NIUSE is a pan disability umbrella organisation which promotes vocational training and supported employment for people with a full range of disabilities.\n\nAn active member of the European Union of Supported Employment for over 20 years, NIUSE is a leading advocate of the Supported Employment Model which is widely acknowledged as a model of best practice in terms of helping people with disabilities access paid jobs and providing them with the necessary supports to retain employment.\n\nWorking with many local and specialist disability organisations, my Department has consistently provided a comprehensive package of support measures aimed at helping people with disability related barriers into employment, including those people preparing for or moving into paid supported employment.\n\nThis range of specialist disability employment provision includes pre-employment programmes such as Work Connect, the Job Introduction Scheme and the Condition Management Programme (CMP), whilst medium to long term in-work support is available through the Workable and Access to Work programmes. DES also has a dedicated Occupational Psychology Service which offers an all age advice, guidance and assessment service in areas relating to disability and employment.\n\nIn addition, my Department currently supports 25 local disability employment projects through the European Social Fund (ESF), with 16 of these projects receiving further match funding from DES. The majority of these specialist projects are delivering the Supported Employment Model, and have set themselves challenging targets for moving people into paid employment during the next three years. Indeed, one of these projects, ‘Job Match’ is a partnership project between DES and Disability Action, and this has resulted in nine new Supported Employment Officers being recruited by the latter, with the sole purpose of securing and retaining paid employment for disabled people throughout Northern Ireland.\n\nThis project, like all of the other ESF projects, will be a cornerstone of the new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’ which is due to launch in February 2016.\n\nOne of the key aims of the strategy is to provide a clear transitions pathway for young people with significant disability related barriers, to assist them in their pursuit of new skills, employment opportunities and career development.\n\nWork experience placements are an integral part of certain mainstream and discrete Further Education (FE) provision. It is the responsibility of individual Colleges to arrange placements appropriate to the level and type of course undertaken by the students. Placements are undertaken in a range of occupational areas including; retail, hospitality, construction, hairdressing, business and IT.\n\nColleges often work in partnership with external disability organisations including MENCAP, the Cedar Foundation, and others, to help source placements and support students while on work experience.\n\nAdditionally, officials from DES have been working in partnership with the Further Education colleges in the Northern, Southern and North West regions, in order to increase the employment opportunities and outcomes for students in the Discrete Learning Units, most of whom have a learning disability or are on the autistic spectrum. This partnership approach commenced in 2012, and during this time, 62 young disabled people have secured paid employment.\n\nDES staff have also worked with the disability sector on a number of ring-fenced recruitment exercises, with employers from various sectors over the past three years, resulting in paid jobs for people in a supported but totally inclusive working environment.\n\nWith the implementation of the new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’ it is anticipated that this work can be replicated in the other regional colleges through the collaboration between DES, the college staff, Careers Service and the Supported Employment Officers from various disability organisations.\n\nThe Department’s Careers Service is an invaluable source of expertise and will contribute directly to the delivery of the new “Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities”. The Careers Advisers will partner with DES colleagues and other support workers to ensure that every young person with a disability who wishes to progress into further education, training and supported employment, will be supported through the transition process.","answerHtml":"My Department, particularly through its Disability Employment Service (DES), has an excellent and long-standing working relationship with the Northern Ireland Union of Supported Employment (NIUSE) and its many member organisations. NIUSE is a pan disability umbrella organisation which promotes vocational training and supported employment for people with a full range of disabilities.
An active member of the European Union of Supported Employment for over 20 years, NIUSE is a leading advocate of the Supported Employment Model which is widely acknowledged as a model of best practice in terms of helping people with disabilities access paid jobs and providing them with the necessary supports to retain employment.
Working with many local and specialist disability organisations, my Department has consistently provided a comprehensive package of support measures aimed at helping people with disability related barriers into employment, including those people preparing for or moving into paid supported employment.
This range of specialist disability employment provision includes pre-employment programmes such as Work Connect, the Job Introduction Scheme and the Condition Management Programme (CMP), whilst medium to long term in-work support is available through the Workable and Access to Work programmes. DES also has a dedicated Occupational Psychology Service which offers an all age advice, guidance and assessment service in areas relating to disability and employment.
In addition, my Department currently supports 25 local disability employment projects through the European Social Fund (ESF), with 16 of these projects receiving further match funding from DES. The majority of these specialist projects are delivering the Supported Employment Model, and have set themselves challenging targets for moving people into paid employment during the next three years. Indeed, one of these projects, ‘Job Match’ is a partnership project between DES and Disability Action, and this has resulted in nine new Supported Employment Officers being recruited by the latter, with the sole purpose of securing and retaining paid employment for disabled people throughout Northern Ireland.
This project, like all of the other ESF projects, will be a cornerstone of the new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’ which is due to launch in February 2016.
One of the key aims of the strategy is to provide a clear transitions pathway for young people with significant disability related barriers, to assist them in their pursuit of new skills, employment opportunities and career development.
Work experience placements are an integral part of certain mainstream and discrete Further Education (FE) provision. It is the responsibility of individual Colleges to arrange placements appropriate to the level and type of course undertaken by the students. Placements are undertaken in a range of occupational areas including; retail, hospitality, construction, hairdressing, business and IT.
Colleges often work in partnership with external disability organisations including MENCAP, the Cedar Foundation, and others, to help source placements and support students while on work experience.
Additionally, officials from DES have been working in partnership with the Further Education colleges in the Northern, Southern and North West regions, in order to increase the employment opportunities and outcomes for students in the Discrete Learning Units, most of whom have a learning disability or are on the autistic spectrum. This partnership approach commenced in 2012, and during this time, 62 young disabled people have secured paid employment.
DES staff have also worked with the disability sector on a number of ring-fenced recruitment exercises, with employers from various sectors over the past three years, resulting in paid jobs for people in a supported but totally inclusive working environment.
With the implementation of the new ‘Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities’ it is anticipated that this work can be replicated in the other regional colleges through the collaboration between DES, the college staff, Careers Service and the Supported Employment Officers from various disability organisations.
The Department’s Careers Service is an invaluable source of expertise and will contribute directly to the delivery of the new “Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities”. The Careers Advisers will partner with DES colleagues and other support workers to ensure that every young person with a disability who wishes to progress into further education, training and supported employment, will be supported through the transition process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052971%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255472","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255472"}},{"id":"255471","reference":"AQW 52970/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-18","answerBy":"2016-02-02","answered":"2016-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what statutory obligations exist to support young people with learning disabilities to transition (i) into further education: and (ii) from further education into employment.","answerText":"Whilst there are no direct statutory obligations placed on my Department to support such transitions, there are related statutory obligations placed upon further education (FE) colleges under the Further Education Order (Northern Ireland) 1997 (FE Order) and the Special Educational Needs and Disability (Northern Ireland) Order 2005 (SENDO).\n\nThe FE Order requires colleges to ‘have regard to the requirements of persons over compulsory school leaving age who have learning difficulties’ while SENDO makes it unlawful for institutions of further and higher education to treat students with disabilities less favourably, without justification, for a reason which relates to their disability. It also places a duty on institutions to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that people who have a disability are not put at a substantial disadvantage (compared to people who do not have a disability) in accessing further education. My Department assists FE colleges fulfil these statutory obligations by providing £4.5 million per annum in ring-fenced funding through the Additional Support Fund to provide additional support to students with learning difficulties or disabilities to help meet their goals in education, progression to employment or towards independent living.\n\nIn addition to direct support within further education, my Department also provides support to those with learning difficulties or disabilities with transition into FE and from FE into employment, through the Careers Service and the Disability Employment Service.\n\nCareers Service Support\n\nAs part of Partnership Agreements between the Careers Service and post-primary schools, including Special Schools, to support the schools’ careers education programme, careers advisers are invited to attend Transition Plan Meetings of Year 10 pupils and their subsequent Annual Reviews. This allows young people and their parents/guardians to make informed decisions about the range of educational, training and employment opportunities available to them.\n\nDisability Employment Service Support and Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nIn 2012, my Department established a pilot project with three FE colleges and the Department’s Disability Employment Service (DES) to enhance the transition between the colleges’ vocational programmes, delivered through discrete provision for students with learning difficulties or disabilities. It is anticipated that the success of the pilot will be built upon through the forthcoming Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities and through improved partnership work between the Careers Service, disability employment organisations, and the FE college staff and students. Further information on the Employment and Skills Strategy consultation is available from: https://www.delni.gov.uk/consultations/employment-strategy-people-disabilities-consultation\n\nTransitions Action Plan\n\nMy Department also chairs a cross-departmental group which has been considering current gaps in provision and opportunities for making improvement to services for young people with severe learning difficulties or disabilities making the transition from school into adult services, and an action plan was published in November 2015.\n\nIts aim is to assist young people with severe learning difficulties who are making the transition from school into adult services and sets out a range of actions across government that aim to deliver improved support for this group of young people throughout Northern Ireland. Progress on the action plan will be monitored on an ongoing basis by the Inter Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability, with my Department being responsible for collating information and updates from relevant lead departments. Further information on the Transitions Action Plan is available from: https://www.delni.gov.uk/publications/transitions-action-plan","answerHtml":"Whilst there are no direct statutory obligations placed on my Department to support such transitions, there are related statutory obligations placed upon further education (FE) colleges under the Further Education Order (Northern Ireland) 1997 (FE Order) and the Special Educational Needs and Disability (Northern Ireland) Order 2005 (SENDO).
The FE Order requires colleges to ‘have regard to the requirements of persons over compulsory school leaving age who have learning difficulties’ while SENDO makes it unlawful for institutions of further and higher education to treat students with disabilities less favourably, without justification, for a reason which relates to their disability. It also places a duty on institutions to make reasonable adjustments to ensure that people who have a disability are not put at a substantial disadvantage (compared to people who do not have a disability) in accessing further education. My Department assists FE colleges fulfil these statutory obligations by providing £4.5 million per annum in ring-fenced funding through the Additional Support Fund to provide additional support to students with learning difficulties or disabilities to help meet their goals in education, progression to employment or towards independent living.
In addition to direct support within further education, my Department also provides support to those with learning difficulties or disabilities with transition into FE and from FE into employment, through the Careers Service and the Disability Employment Service.
Careers Service Support
As part of Partnership Agreements between the Careers Service and post-primary schools, including Special Schools, to support the schools’ careers education programme, careers advisers are invited to attend Transition Plan Meetings of Year 10 pupils and their subsequent Annual Reviews. This allows young people and their parents/guardians to make informed decisions about the range of educational, training and employment opportunities available to them.
Disability Employment Service Support and Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities
In 2012, my Department established a pilot project with three FE colleges and the Department’s Disability Employment Service (DES) to enhance the transition between the colleges’ vocational programmes, delivered through discrete provision for students with learning difficulties or disabilities. It is anticipated that the success of the pilot will be built upon through the forthcoming Employment Strategy for People with Disabilities and through improved partnership work between the Careers Service, disability employment organisations, and the FE college staff and students. Further information on the Employment and Skills Strategy consultation is available from: https://www.delni.gov.uk/consultations/employment-strategy-people-disabilities-consultation
Transitions Action Plan
My Department also chairs a cross-departmental group which has been considering current gaps in provision and opportunities for making improvement to services for young people with severe learning difficulties or disabilities making the transition from school into adult services, and an action plan was published in November 2015.
Its aim is to assist young people with severe learning difficulties who are making the transition from school into adult services and sets out a range of actions across government that aim to deliver improved support for this group of young people throughout Northern Ireland. Progress on the action plan will be monitored on an ongoing basis by the Inter Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability, with my Department being responsible for collating information and updates from relevant lead departments. Further information on the Transitions Action Plan is available from: https://www.delni.gov.uk/publications/transitions-action-plan
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052970%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255471"}},{"id":"255311","reference":"AQW 52946/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-15","answerBy":"2016-02-01","answered":"2016-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the publication of his Department's policy for looked after children; and whether it will be implemented in the 2016-17 academic year.","answerText":"My officials are liaising with the Health Department to consider how we can work together effectively for the benefit of children in care. I am also keen that we continue to listen to the voice of young people in care so that we get it right in relation to improving their educational experience and outcomes. This experience should be no less than that of any other young person.\n\nI am aware of the upcoming OECD case study report in relation to improving the educational outcomes for Looked After Children, and I will want to take the findings into account, along with continued collaborative work with the Health Department.\n\nMy officials will continue to develop our policy over the coming months, for implementation in the 2016/17 school year. I am determined to get it right in terms of supporting and nurturing children in care in an educational setting.","answerHtml":"My officials are liaising with the Health Department to consider how we can work together effectively for the benefit of children in care. I am also keen that we continue to listen to the voice of young people in care so that we get it right in relation to improving their educational experience and outcomes. This experience should be no less than that of any other young person.
I am aware of the upcoming OECD case study report in relation to improving the educational outcomes for Looked After Children, and I will want to take the findings into account, along with continued collaborative work with the Health Department.
My officials will continue to develop our policy over the coming months, for implementation in the 2016/17 school year. I am determined to get it right in terms of supporting and nurturing children in care in an educational setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052946%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255311","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255311"}},{"id":"255310","reference":"AQW 52945/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-15","answerBy":"2016-02-01","answered":"2016-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of current educational experiences and outcomes for looked after children.","answerText":"My aim is to create an education service which ensures that everyone receives a high-quality education, focussing on the needs of our young people.\n\nHowever, the evidence tells us that many looked-after children massively underachieve in education. The latest available figures for 2013/14 show that only 20.9% achieved 5 GCSEs grades A-C including English and Maths, compared to 63.8 % of non- looked after children in our schools. This is a marginal improvement on the previous year.\n\nMy expectations for looked-after children are no less than for any other child. I want them to achieve to their full potential. I acknowledge however that they might need a bit of extra support to help them to do so. I have therefore provided an additional support factor of just over £1000 per year to schools for each Looked After Child on their register. In addition the Education Authority’s Education Welfare Service can offer advice and support to individual looked-after children and their carers to support them with their education.\n\nMy officials are currently developing a policy to further support the educational experiences and outcomes for looked-after children. They are consulting with the Health Department and all other stakeholders, including looked-after children themselves. I expect the policy to be introduced during the 2016/17 school year.\n\nI await the final report on recent research conducted by OECD to consider ways to improve educational outcomes for looked-after children here. I will ensure that any appropriate recommendations are fully considered as the policy is developed.","answerHtml":"My aim is to create an education service which ensures that everyone receives a high-quality education, focussing on the needs of our young people.
However, the evidence tells us that many looked-after children massively underachieve in education. The latest available figures for 2013/14 show that only 20.9% achieved 5 GCSEs grades A-C including English and Maths, compared to 63.8 % of non- looked after children in our schools. This is a marginal improvement on the previous year.
My expectations for looked-after children are no less than for any other child. I want them to achieve to their full potential. I acknowledge however that they might need a bit of extra support to help them to do so. I have therefore provided an additional support factor of just over £1000 per year to schools for each Looked After Child on their register. In addition the Education Authority’s Education Welfare Service can offer advice and support to individual looked-after children and their carers to support them with their education.
My officials are currently developing a policy to further support the educational experiences and outcomes for looked-after children. They are consulting with the Health Department and all other stakeholders, including looked-after children themselves. I expect the policy to be introduced during the 2016/17 school year.
I await the final report on recent research conducted by OECD to consider ways to improve educational outcomes for looked-after children here. I will ensure that any appropriate recommendations are fully considered as the policy is developed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052945%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255310"}},{"id":"255309","reference":"AQW 52944/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-15","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of people that have been medically retired from the Northern Ireland Civil Service due to a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"This information is not held centrally therefore the Member should contact individual departments for response.\n\nIn the Department of Finance and Personnel, 1 member of staff retired, in part due to fibromyalgia in 2013, and in 2015, 1 member of staff retired due to fibromyalgia.","answerHtml":"This information is not held centrally therefore the Member should contact individual departments for response.
In the Department of Finance and Personnel, 1 member of staff retired, in part due to fibromyalgia in 2013, and in 2015, 1 member of staff retired due to fibromyalgia.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052944%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255309"}},{"id":"255307","reference":"AQW 52942/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-15","answerBy":"2016-02-01","answered":"2016-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the review of public sector reform in Northern Ireland by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, including when it will be published.","answerText":"The OECD conducted a benchmarking analysis of how our public sector compares against international settings when assessed against 3 overarching themes: Improving Strategic Approaches; Improving Engagement with People; and Improving Operational Delivery.\n\nThey also made recommendations on 6 targeted case studies:\n\noImproving Educational Outcomes for Looked After Children\n\noProblem-Solving Justice\n\noGovernance of Public Procurement\n\noDelivering Social Change Framework\n\noHealth Services Commissioning\n\noStreamlining regulation\n\nI, along with my officials, am currently considering the draft Report.","answerHtml":"The OECD conducted a benchmarking analysis of how our public sector compares against international settings when assessed against 3 overarching themes: Improving Strategic Approaches; Improving Engagement with People; and Improving Operational Delivery.
They also made recommendations on 6 targeted case studies:
oImproving Educational Outcomes for Looked After Children
oProblem-Solving Justice
oGovernance of Public Procurement
oDelivering Social Change Framework
oHealth Services Commissioning
oStreamlining regulation
I, along with my officials, am currently considering the draft Report.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052942%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255307"}},{"id":"255305","reference":"AQW 52940/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-15","answerBy":"2016-02-01","answered":"2016-01-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure when the multi-facility strand of Sport NI's Sports Facilities Fund will open for applications.","answerText":"I can advise the Multi Facility strand of the Sport NI Lottery Sports Facility Fund is expected to open for applications in April 2016, however, this is dependent on the Sports Facilities Strategy and eleven associated Council Area Reports being completed in March 2016.","answerHtml":"I can advise the Multi Facility strand of the Sport NI Lottery Sports Facility Fund is expected to open for applications in April 2016, however, this is dependent on the Sports Facilities Strategy and eleven associated Council Area Reports being completed in March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052940%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255305"}},{"id":"255215","reference":"AQW 52887/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-29","answered":"2016-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 51495/11-16, for an update on the repair of street lights in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.","answerText":"I can confirm that my Department’s measured term contractor for the repair of street lighting in Northern Division completed a full cycle of repair in the Causeway Coast and Glens area in the five weeks up to the end of December 2015. This area takes in the old Limavady, Coleraine, Ballymoney and Moyle council areas. The backlog of repair for defective lighting in this Council area is now complete.\n\nI am also pleased to advise that the public can now assist us by reporting failures on NI Direct-Report a street light fault http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/street-lighting-and-reporting-a-fault or by telephone on 0300 200 7891.\n\nI hope this reply is helpful.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that my Department’s measured term contractor for the repair of street lighting in Northern Division completed a full cycle of repair in the Causeway Coast and Glens area in the five weeks up to the end of December 2015. This area takes in the old Limavady, Coleraine, Ballymoney and Moyle council areas. The backlog of repair for defective lighting in this Council area is now complete.
I am also pleased to advise that the public can now assist us by reporting failures on NI Direct-Report a street light fault http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/street-lighting-and-reporting-a-fault or by telephone on 0300 200 7891.
I hope this reply is helpful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052887%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255215"}},{"id":"255214","reference":"AQW 52886/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-29","answered":"2016-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the new build for Magilligan prison.","answerText":"All preparatory work has been completed on the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project pending a decision by the Executive on its capital budget.\n\nThe outline business case was approved by the Department of Finance and Personnel in January 2015. A Design Team is already in place and ready to commence work, subject to capital availability.\n\nMy officials will continue to make a strong case to secure funding for the redevelopment of Magilligan, and other NIPS Capital Estates Programme Projects, in advance of the Executive’s decision on its capital budget.","answerHtml":"All preparatory work has been completed on the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project pending a decision by the Executive on its capital budget.
The outline business case was approved by the Department of Finance and Personnel in January 2015. A Design Team is already in place and ready to commence work, subject to capital availability.
My officials will continue to make a strong case to secure funding for the redevelopment of Magilligan, and other NIPS Capital Estates Programme Projects, in advance of the Executive’s decision on its capital budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052886%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255214","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255214"}},{"id":"255213","reference":"AQW 52885/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-29","answered":"2016-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, pursuant to AQW 51494/11-16, for an update on the formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone at Coleraine.","answerText":"HMT is currently considering a request for formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone and it is anticipated that designation will be progressed in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"HMT is currently considering a request for formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone and it is anticipated that designation will be progressed in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052885%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255213","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255213"}},{"id":"255204","reference":"AQW 52881/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-29","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the new suicide prevention strategy.","answerText":"The new Protect Life suicide prevention strategy is at an advanced stage of drafting. An early draft was shared with stakeholders and the comments received are informing a revised version which will issue for consultation in the coming months.\n\nThe new strategy will reflect international evidence of best practice in suicide prevention as well as learning from local experience of delivering suicide and self harm prevention services. The new strategy will continue to focus on reducing the difference in suicide rates between the most deprived and least deprived areas.","answerHtml":"The new Protect Life suicide prevention strategy is at an advanced stage of drafting. An early draft was shared with stakeholders and the comments received are informing a revised version which will issue for consultation in the coming months.
The new strategy will reflect international evidence of best practice in suicide prevention as well as learning from local experience of delivering suicide and self harm prevention services. The new strategy will continue to focus on reducing the difference in suicide rates between the most deprived and least deprived areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052881%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255204"}},{"id":"255203","reference":"AQW 52880/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-29","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on work to develop a post-2016 strategy for children and young people.","answerText":"The current Executive Strategy for children and young people is due to conclude in 2016 and therefore work is underway to develop a new strategy through a co-design process with other departments, stakeholders and children and young people.\n\nA significant amount of work has been carried out to date which has included reviewing the previous strategy; analysing recent reports to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child; assessing available data sources; and engaging with departments and stakeholders. Initial stakeholder events were held in September and November 2015 and were followed up with a series of one-to-one meetings to discuss the key issues that need to be considered within the new strategy.\n\nFrom these discussions early themes have emerged which will be tested with stakeholders. A panel of children and young people from across the community will also be invited to take part in the development of the strategy.\n\nWe expect the new strategy to build upon the positive aspects of the previous strategy; consider the key issues facing our children and young people today; and outline how Government will work collaboratively to improve the well-being of our children and young people.","answerHtml":"The current Executive Strategy for children and young people is due to conclude in 2016 and therefore work is underway to develop a new strategy through a co-design process with other departments, stakeholders and children and young people.
A significant amount of work has been carried out to date which has included reviewing the previous strategy; analysing recent reports to the United Nations Committee on the Rights of the Child; assessing available data sources; and engaging with departments and stakeholders. Initial stakeholder events were held in September and November 2015 and were followed up with a series of one-to-one meetings to discuss the key issues that need to be considered within the new strategy.
From these discussions early themes have emerged which will be tested with stakeholders. A panel of children and young people from across the community will also be invited to take part in the development of the strategy.
We expect the new strategy to build upon the positive aspects of the previous strategy; consider the key issues facing our children and young people today; and outline how Government will work collaboratively to improve the well-being of our children and young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052880%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255203"}},{"id":"255119","reference":"AQO 9466/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-26","answered":"2016-01-26","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the provision of nurses in statutory and private nursing and residential care homes.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"All registered residential care and nursing homes are required by legislation to employ an appropriate number of staff to enable them to meet the health and welfare needs of residents. The registered person and registered manager must ensure that enough staff of the appropriate skill level are on duty at all times to meet residents' assessed needs. The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) has responsibility to regulate, register and inspect a wide range of specified services delivered by HSC bodies and by the independent sector. I recognise that there are many challenges facing nursing recruitment in the statutory and independent sectors which need to be addressed on a range of fronts. My Department is taking forward a number of measures to address those. It is developing a strategic approach to the future supply and demand of nursing in Northern Ireland that addresses the needs of the statutory and independent sectors and which will take a long-term approach to workforce planning."},{"speaker":"","text":"We have just launched a return to practice campaign that is designed to encourage nurses in Northern Ireland who have been out of nursing practice to renew their registration and return to the profession so that they can make a valued contribution to the care of our local population. I have provided funding for an additional 100 places on that return to practice programme, which is to be delivered by Ulster University in spring 2016. That initiative will support the statutory and independent sectors. In addition, we have just launched a career pathway for nurses and midwives showcasing opportunities for development in a range of settings, including the independent sector. The career pathway has profiled the independent sector as a means of encouraging staff to apply for positions there. I am aware that the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency are continuing to work closely with independent sector providers to review the current workforce within private nursing homes. It is important to keep up to date with changes in patient complexity and to identify and develop competency levels of practice for senior care assistants and to explore the potential for maximising their role within nursing homes."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I appreciate that the Minister is looking towards addressing the issue. I have been speaking to a number of providers, and they are telling me that their big issue is that they just do not have enough nurses. Apparently, for every care home across Northern Ireland, there is one less nurse than is necessary for health and safety. When will the Minister start to pay for provision so that the people can get the care they are entitled to and nurses will be encouraged into this role?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"I am well aware of the issues with the sector. I met representatives of the Independent Health and Care Providers (IHCP) a couple of weeks ago. Whilst they wanted to discuss a range of issues, as you might anticipate, that was one that they wanted to particularly talk about. I wanted to listen to them and to the concerns they had. I can quote all sorts of figures, and people can quote figures back at me, but unless you are talking to providers, as the Member has, you do not get a sense of what it means on the ground. It was a useful and interesting conversation that highlighted the fact that there is a shortage right across nursing, whether that is in the statutory sector or the independent sector, where it is particularly pronounced. That is why we are trying to work at it. We are not just trying to work to get numbers up in the statutory sector, which people might think is our priority; we realise and appreciate the importance of the independent sector and the work it is doing. We saw that, particularly with emergency departments and the pressures that we faced over the holiday period. That is why the board and the PHA are trying to work very closely with the statutory sector and the independent sector to increase the number of nurses. That is also why we have the return to practice campaign, which will hopefully bear some fruit. It is a challenge. I think we need to be realistic and to realise that we cannot wave a magic wand or click our fingers and make the change overnight. A shortage of nurses is not just a Northern Ireland, a British or a UK problem; it is a worldwide problem. We need to be strategic and long-term in our thinking, but we also need to carry forward some of those initiatives and, indeed, others that will increase the number of nurses that are coming out of our universities. I recently announced — I think it was in the Chamber just before Christmas — that I do not want to do away with the bursary, as it will allow us to encourage nurses to stay and train here. In that context, I think it is also important to look at ways of keeping our nurses, particularly our newly qualified nurses, practising in Northern Ireland, whether that is in the statutory or independent sectors."},{"speaker":"Mrs Dobson","text":"Minister, I met the management of Four Seasons last week, and I know the very real concerns it has with workforce recruitment. On a personal note, I am disappointed that you turned down my invitation to come to Donaghcloney Care Home to see at first hand the work that is done there. What help and reassurance can the Minister give to companies like that that wish to invest in and care for our elderly people in Northern Ireland before we see even more homes close and the pain and the worry that that will bring?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"I do not need to accept the Member's invites to know what is going on in residential care homes. I see plenty of them, so I know what is going on. I speak to people from the sector, including those from Four Seasons. I have met the chief executive of Four Seasons in a different capacity, but I am seeking to meet the company in the not too distant future. We are still very concerned about its decision to close some of its homes. Sadly, the sale of the one in Garvagh fell through, but I welcome and am thankful that three of the others are being sold. That will ensure that residents can remain in what have become their homes. I reflect on the fact that, a couple of months ago in the Chamber, people called on me to throw all sorts of money at some of those companies, knowing full well that the reason why Four Seasons in particular was closing homes was because of the very particular financial problems that it was experiencing. The fact that three of those homes are being sold to other providers shows that there is viability in them. I understand the pressures that the system is facing and the pressure that the sector is facing, and that it is a critical part of our health and social care sector. I do not think that we have always given it the attention that it deserves in the past. I think that we have always tended to focus more on primary care or on secondary care and not given social care the consideration or thought that it needs. Realising the issues that will come to the fore over the next number of years, with a growing and also ageing population, we acknowledge this as an area that we need to start giving attention to on the same scale that we have with the reconfiguration of hospital services. That can be done in a way that has been done with successive pieces of work before, including the expert panel currently looking at the issue. It is something that will cause all of us long-term problems if we do not get to grips with it, starting very soon."},{"speaker":"Mr McCrossan","text":"Will the Minister to outline the current position with the Greenfield residential care home in Strabane? There has been some uncertainty about it in the past, and I would like clarification on his current position."},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"I welcome the Member to the House. I am sure that he has been welcomed plenty of times before, but I particularly welcome him to health questions. I am not aware of any particular issues around the said home in Strabane. Rather than guess at it, I will come back to the Member in writing. I am not aware of any particular problems."},{"speaker":"Mr Lyttle","text":"I ask the Minister whether he made representations to Four Seasons Health Care to request that they reconsider the closure, or timescale for closure, of residential nursing homes. How many of the residents affected by the closures are still to be relocated? I also ask for an update on his review of residential nursing care in Northern Ireland."},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"There are about four questions there, certainly three anyway. As a Department, we were aware of issues with Four Seasons, not least because its financial difficulties were well publicised, certainly in the mainland press. Obviously, in addition to this, officials kept in close contact with Four Seasons about the possibility of closures. That said, we, or I, were certainly not aware of what was happening until the day that it announced the seven closures. There had been indications of potential closures, but nothing had been confirmed until the day that it was announced to the press. In respect to residents who are currently in homes, my information is that — the Member will be, I suspect, particularly interested in the two homes in his constituency that are being closed — all the residents in those homes will be successfully moved to other homes and that they have all agreed to do that. I accept that that is far from ideal. I would rather that they stayed in their current homes, but, unfortunately, that is not case because of the decision taken by Four Seasons. The board, the trust and the RQIA have worked very closely with Four Seasons to ensure that there is minimum disruption for residents, and I hope to see that continue."},{"speaker":"Mr Allister","text":"Two months ago, the Minister made a useful statement halting the consultation on the closure of statutory care homes. Can he indicate whether he will totally lift the cloud from over those homes by announcing that there will be no closures?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"I always worry when the Member says that I have made a \"useful statement\", but, on this occasion, I will agree with him that it was a good statement. To be fair, he did congratulate me on the day for making that statement. I have halted that decision and started a review, and the terms of that review have now been agreed between my Department and the board. One of the things that they will be looking at is the reopening of the homes for new admissions, and it is only right and proper in that context that that is done. However, we should bear in mind that the decision that I took was due to an uncertainty at that time around the market as a whole, and most of the residents in the Four Seasons homes were nursing care patients as opposed to residential care patients. The decision that I took was on the basis of that. However, I think that it was right that we froze the consultations at that time just in case other things happened in the market. Thankfully, nothing similar has happened up to this point, although I do have concerns, which were affirmed through my recent meeting with the independent sector. It was only right that we took the decision that we did, and included in that is a review of whether it is appropriate to reopen the homes for new admissions."},{"speaker":"","text":"If that is what comes back from the analysis, I will certainly make sure that that happens."},{"speaker":"Mr Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"That ends the period for listed questions. We now move to topical questions. Topical question 1 has been withdrawn."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209466%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255119","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2016-01-26&docID=255809#AQO%209466/11-16","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255119"}},{"id":"255132","reference":"AQO 9454/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-14","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-25","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of the impact of the proposed changes to rate payments for large charities and residential homes, including the impact on their proprietors.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Storey","text":"I thank the Member for her question. I have no plans or proposals to change the rating of large charities and residential homes. My Department, however, is undertaking a wide-ranging review of all non-domestic rate support to help the new Executive to decide what changes are needed to the non-domestic rating system to make it fit for purpose. This process involves asking stakeholders in all sectors to produce evidence to justify their existing support provision, which is not the same thing as signalling an intention to change policy in any particular area."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for his response. I believe that gaps in the current system have led others to make up that shortfall, which discourages investment in town centres. Equally, I do not wish that burden to be passed on to the community and voluntary sector. Where is the balance, so that occupiers do not incur an unfair rates bill every April?"},{"speaker":"Mr Storey","text":"There are always different views on rates. My difficulty, and the difficulty with the rating system, is that, if you take money from one hand, you have to find it with the other hand. Many organisations across Northern Ireland can make valid arguments about their own circumstances. However, we have to balance all that against ensuring a fair system. I am aware of the recent revaluation and the concerns that were raised, and a number of appeals are working their way through the system."},{"speaker":"","text":"However, I remain focused on ensuring that we have a system that is fair. We have to be cautious in any moves that we make so that we do not have a situation in which some benefit over and above others."},{"speaker":"Mr Campbell","text":"The Minister referred to the current revaluation. Will he update the House on its impact on empty retail and commercial premises in our towns and cities?"},{"speaker":"Mr Storey","text":"I thank the Member for his supplementary. I assume that he refers to the Lisney report, published just last week. Information in the report points to the positive effects overall of the revaluation, particularly on Donegall Place, which has been described as Northern Ireland's premier shopping street, and the rebalancing of the rate burden towards out-of-town centres without having a detrimental effect on their vacancy rates. The report states:"},{"speaker":"","text":"Are there other issues that we still need to look at? Yes. That is why, when I was in my previous ministerial role, the Department for Social Development, which has responsibility for town centres, undertook considerable investment in town centres: there were provisions for rehabilitation and revitalisation, and public realm works were carried out in many of our towns and city centres. Collectively, they point to the fact that the Executive are committed to ensuring that town centres remain live, vibrant places where people want to shop and do business."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209454%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255132","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2016-01-25&docID=255808#AQO%209454/11-16","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255132"}},{"id":"255058","reference":"AQW 52849/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-13","answerBy":"2016-01-28","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister why the publication of the Active Ageing strategy has been delayed.","answerText":"The Active Ageing Strategy was published on the OFMDFM website on 26 January 2016.","answerHtml":"The Active Ageing Strategy was published on the OFMDFM website on 26 January 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052849%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255058"}},{"id":"255057","reference":"AQW 52848/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-13","answerBy":"2016-01-28","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when age discrimination legislation will be brought before the Assembly.","answerText":"We are currently finalising the analysis of responses to the consultation and these will be taken into account in developing final policy proposals. We will consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"We are currently finalising the analysis of responses to the consultation and these will be taken into account in developing final policy proposals. We will consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052848%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255057"}},{"id":"255056","reference":"AQW 52847/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-13","answerBy":"2016-01-28","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to 50232/11-16, for an update on the regional review of Domiciliary Care by the Health and Social Care Board.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board have carried out a regional review of Domiciliary Care and published the Report ‘A Managed Change; An Agenda for Creating a Sustainable Basis for Domiciliary Care in Northern Ireland’ in November 2015. This Report can be found at:\n\nhttp://www.hscboard.hscni.net/publications/index.html","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board have carried out a regional review of Domiciliary Care and published the Report ‘A Managed Change; An Agenda for Creating a Sustainable Basis for Domiciliary Care in Northern Ireland’ in November 2015. This Report can be found at:
http://www.hscboard.hscni.net/publications/index.html
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052847%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255056"}},{"id":"255055","reference":"AQW 52846/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-13","answerBy":"2016-01-28","answered":"2016-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 51273/11-16, to detail when the position for Consultant Physician in care of the elderly in the Causeway Hospital will be filled.","answerText":"This post will be re-advertised in February 2016 and in the interim, a locum consultant with competence in Care of the Elderly is in place.","answerHtml":"This post will be re-advertised in February 2016 and in the interim, a locum consultant with competence in Care of the Elderly is in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052846%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255055","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255055"}},{"id":"255054","reference":"AQW 52845/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-13","answerBy":"2016-01-28","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 48471/11-16, (i) for an update on a new service specification for the community meals service within the Western Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) to detail how this will impact on current arrangements for this service.","answerText":"The Western Health and Social Care Trust’s Community Meals Steering Group continues to work towards finalising a specification for the provision of a community meals service. It will continue to engage with service users on the development of the service specification and subsequent service delivery model. The existing community meals service will operate in its current format until any new service model is agreed.","answerHtml":"The Western Health and Social Care Trust’s Community Meals Steering Group continues to work towards finalising a specification for the provision of a community meals service. It will continue to engage with service users on the development of the service specification and subsequent service delivery model. The existing community meals service will operate in its current format until any new service model is agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052845%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255054"}},{"id":"254887","reference":"AQW 52782/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-12","answerBy":"2016-01-27","answered":"2016-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the processes for (i) lodging an appeal with the Child Support Agency through to receiving an outcome; and (ii) the reward of money to a claimant following a successful appeal.","answerText":"All decision notices issued by the Child Maintenance Service that carry a right of appeal, clearly set out what clients must do and when if they wish to appeal a decision.\n\nOnce lodged, the Child Maintenance Service will consider the application and can review the original decision if new information is provided. In such cases the appeal can end at this stage. Should that not be the case, an Appeal Submission will be forwarded to the Appeals Service who have responsibility at that stage for arranging an Independent Tribunal to consider the case.\n\n(II) If a Tribunal makes a new decision, it can either increase or reduce the amount of child maintenance due. Where it increases the maintenance payable, the\n\nChild Maintenance Service will put a new payment schedule in place to start collecting the new liability and any arrears that may be due.","answerHtml":"All decision notices issued by the Child Maintenance Service that carry a right of appeal, clearly set out what clients must do and when if they wish to appeal a decision.
Once lodged, the Child Maintenance Service will consider the application and can review the original decision if new information is provided. In such cases the appeal can end at this stage. Should that not be the case, an Appeal Submission will be forwarded to the Appeals Service who have responsibility at that stage for arranging an Independent Tribunal to consider the case.
(II) If a Tribunal makes a new decision, it can either increase or reduce the amount of child maintenance due. Where it increases the maintenance payable, the
Child Maintenance Service will put a new payment schedule in place to start collecting the new liability and any arrears that may be due.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052782%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254887"}},{"id":"254886","reference":"AQW 52781/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-12","answerBy":"2016-01-27","answered":"2016-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) how the Child Support Agency ensures that any money rewarded following an appeal goes to the people who need it the most; and (ii) whether he is aware of any scenario when money claimed has been awarded to a claimant other than the claimant that lodged the initial appeal.","answerText":"The role of the Child Maintenance Service after a successful appeal is to implement the decision of the Independent Tribunal. That may mean an increase or a decrease in the child maintenance liability depending on the circumstances of the case.\n\n(II) I am not aware of any scenario when the Child Maintenance Service paid child maintenance to the wrong party following an appeal.","answerHtml":"The role of the Child Maintenance Service after a successful appeal is to implement the decision of the Independent Tribunal. That may mean an increase or a decrease in the child maintenance liability depending on the circumstances of the case.
(II) I am not aware of any scenario when the Child Maintenance Service paid child maintenance to the wrong party following an appeal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052781%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254886"}},{"id":"254872","reference":"AQW 52772/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-12","answerBy":"2016-01-18","answered":"2016-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether she has committed capital funding to a scheme that will include a bypass at Dungiven.","answerText":"The A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dualling scheme is well advanced in terms of development. It has been through Public Inquiry and the Inspector has produced a report embracing various recommendations, some relating to complex issues.\n\nMy officials have prepared a report addressing the recommendations arising from the Public Inquiry and are currently reviewing the extent of this scheme which can be built with the funding allocations in the December 2015 Budget Statement.\n\nOnce I have received these reports and considered them in full, I will make a decision on how the scheme should proceed.\n\nThe indicative allocations for the 2017/18 – 2020/21 period will allow my Department to construct elements of the A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dualling scheme, which includes a bypass of Dungiven.","answerHtml":"The A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dualling scheme is well advanced in terms of development. It has been through Public Inquiry and the Inspector has produced a report embracing various recommendations, some relating to complex issues.
My officials have prepared a report addressing the recommendations arising from the Public Inquiry and are currently reviewing the extent of this scheme which can be built with the funding allocations in the December 2015 Budget Statement.
Once I have received these reports and considered them in full, I will make a decision on how the scheme should proceed.
The indicative allocations for the 2017/18 – 2020/21 period will allow my Department to construct elements of the A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dualling scheme, which includes a bypass of Dungiven.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052772%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254872","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254872"}},{"id":"254871","reference":"AQW 52771/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-12","answerBy":"2016-01-27","answered":"2016-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether she has any plans to remove or upgrade the current roundabouts on the bypass between Toome and Dungiven.","answerText":"As I recently announced, the allocations for the A6 set out in the Budget Statement of December 2015 will enable construction of a dual carriageway between Randalstown and Castledawson to commence in the next financial year. The development of this scheme has considered the existing roundabouts located along the Toome Bypass and at the end of the scheme at Castledawson.\n\nThere are currently three roundabouts on the Toome Bypass located at Drumderg, Roguery Road, and the Creagh, close to the Elk Restaurant.\n\nThe new road alignment is such that the roundabout situated at the Creagh will be removed from the strategic route, although it will remain in place and continue to serve local traffic. The Drumderg Roundabout will be reconstructed and enlarged to accommodate the new dual carriageway and the Roguery Road Roundabout will remain in place to continue to facilitate access to traffic to and from Ballymena/Toome.\n\nThe roundabout at Castledawson will also remain part of the strategic route and act as a tie in from the new dual carriageway and the existing road network.\n\nMichelle McIlveen MLA\n\nMinister for Regional Development","answerHtml":"As I recently announced, the allocations for the A6 set out in the Budget Statement of December 2015 will enable construction of a dual carriageway between Randalstown and Castledawson to commence in the next financial year. The development of this scheme has considered the existing roundabouts located along the Toome Bypass and at the end of the scheme at Castledawson.
There are currently three roundabouts on the Toome Bypass located at Drumderg, Roguery Road, and the Creagh, close to the Elk Restaurant.
The new road alignment is such that the roundabout situated at the Creagh will be removed from the strategic route, although it will remain in place and continue to serve local traffic. The Drumderg Roundabout will be reconstructed and enlarged to accommodate the new dual carriageway and the Roguery Road Roundabout will remain in place to continue to facilitate access to traffic to and from Ballymena/Toome.
The roundabout at Castledawson will also remain part of the strategic route and act as a tie in from the new dual carriageway and the existing road network.
Michelle McIlveen MLA
Minister for Regional Development
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052771%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254871","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254871"}},{"id":"254870","reference":"AQW 52770/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-12","answerBy":"2016-01-27","answered":"2016-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for her assessment of the problem with air quality, in the absence of a bypass between Dungiven and Drumahoe; and how has this encouraged her to progress the work on the bypass.","answerText":"In its March 2008 Air Quality Action Plan, Limavady Borough Council examined a range of measures which could, in theory, be deployed to impact positively upon air quality within Dungiven whilst, at the same time, ensuring road safety was not compromised. Such measures included traffic calming, traffic light control at junctions, a one way traffic system around the village, the introduction of low emission zones, priority for high occupancy vehicles and the construction of a bypass.\n\nHaving considered each of these measures, my officals agreed with Limavady Borough Council that the construction of a bypass was the only practical method to reduce traffic levels in the village and thus, achievement of the Local Air Quality Management objectives, as set out in the Air Quality Regulations.\n\nThe proposed A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dual carriageway scheme, which incorporates Dungiven bypass, is well advanced in terms of development. I am shortly to receive a report addressing the recommendations arising from Public Inquiry into the scheme. My officials are also currently reviewing the extent of this scheme which can be built with the funding allocations in the December 2015 Budget Statement. When I consider the report on the Public Inquiry and review the funding allocations I will make a decision on how the scheme should proceed.","answerHtml":"In its March 2008 Air Quality Action Plan, Limavady Borough Council examined a range of measures which could, in theory, be deployed to impact positively upon air quality within Dungiven whilst, at the same time, ensuring road safety was not compromised. Such measures included traffic calming, traffic light control at junctions, a one way traffic system around the village, the introduction of low emission zones, priority for high occupancy vehicles and the construction of a bypass.
Having considered each of these measures, my officals agreed with Limavady Borough Council that the construction of a bypass was the only practical method to reduce traffic levels in the village and thus, achievement of the Local Air Quality Management objectives, as set out in the Air Quality Regulations.
The proposed A6 Londonderry to Dungiven dual carriageway scheme, which incorporates Dungiven bypass, is well advanced in terms of development. I am shortly to receive a report addressing the recommendations arising from Public Inquiry into the scheme. My officials are also currently reviewing the extent of this scheme which can be built with the funding allocations in the December 2015 Budget Statement. When I consider the report on the Public Inquiry and review the funding allocations I will make a decision on how the scheme should proceed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052770%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254870","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254870"}},{"id":"254716","reference":"AQW 52697/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-11","answerBy":"2016-01-26","answered":"2016-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for his assessment of the extended Super-connected Cities broadband voucher scheme in meeting the needs of rural businesses; and what options exist for rural businesses that missed out on this scheme to access increased broadband speeds.","answerText":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department has not therefore conducted an assessment of its outcomes. DCMS has however published early analysis on the scheme website at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/schemefacts/.\n\nIn terms of options available for accessing broadband services with higher speeds, the Member will be aware that my Department is currently implementing the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project which seeks to improve access to basic and, in some areas superfast broadband, particularly in rural locations. The deadline for completion of this project has been extended to 31 March 2016.\n\nRecognising that NIBIP will not deliver superfast broadband to all premises, my Department, in February 2015, awarded a further contract to BT for the delivery of the Superfast Roll-out Programme (SRP). This project will provide superfast broadband improvements for almost 39,000 premises across Northern Ireland by December 2017. An extensive survey and design process is underway and will take several months to complete. Further information will be posted to NI Direct as it becomes available.\n\nIn the interim, other technology alternatives are already widely available across Northern Ireland via a number of suppliers including satellite and fixed-wireless.","answerHtml":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department has not therefore conducted an assessment of its outcomes. DCMS has however published early analysis on the scheme website at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/schemefacts/.
In terms of options available for accessing broadband services with higher speeds, the Member will be aware that my Department is currently implementing the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project which seeks to improve access to basic and, in some areas superfast broadband, particularly in rural locations. The deadline for completion of this project has been extended to 31 March 2016.
Recognising that NIBIP will not deliver superfast broadband to all premises, my Department, in February 2015, awarded a further contract to BT for the delivery of the Superfast Roll-out Programme (SRP). This project will provide superfast broadband improvements for almost 39,000 premises across Northern Ireland by December 2017. An extensive survey and design process is underway and will take several months to complete. Further information will be posted to NI Direct as it becomes available.
In the interim, other technology alternatives are already widely available across Northern Ireland via a number of suppliers including satellite and fixed-wireless.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052697%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254716"}},{"id":"254715","reference":"AQW 52696/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-11","answerBy":"2016-01-26","answered":"2016-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many (i) businesses; and (ii) third sector organisations have benefited from the extension of the Super-connected Cities broadband voucher scheme, since April 2015, broken down by Council area.","answerText":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department did not therefore gather the information requested.","answerHtml":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department did not therefore gather the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052696%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254715"}},{"id":"254714","reference":"AQW 52695/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-11","answerBy":"2016-01-26","answered":"2016-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many broadband suppliers have announced discounted connections to superfast broadband for rurally based businesses since the closure of the extended Super-connected Cities broadband voucher scheme; and for his assessment of market stimulation following the voucher scheme.","answerText":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department did not therefore gather the information requested on supplier packages. DCMS has published early analysis on the scheme website at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/schemefacts/.","answerHtml":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department did not therefore gather the information requested on supplier packages. DCMS has published early analysis on the scheme website at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/schemefacts/.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052695%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254714"}},{"id":"254712","reference":"AQW 52693/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-11","answerBy":"2016-01-26","answered":"2016-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of (i) applications received; (ii) successful applications; and (iii) applications received which were judged to have missed the deadline, for the extended Super-connected Cities broadband voucher scheme, broken down by Council area.","answerText":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department did not therefore gather the information requested. However, a press release issued by DCMS on 16 November 2015 would indicate that 2,411 vouchers were issued in Northern Ireland under the scheme – see https://www.gov.uk/government/news/small-businesses-given-big-boost-through-government-broadband-scheme.","answerHtml":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport working in conjunction with local councils. My Department did not therefore gather the information requested. However, a press release issued by DCMS on 16 November 2015 would indicate that 2,411 vouchers were issued in Northern Ireland under the scheme – see https://www.gov.uk/government/news/small-businesses-given-big-boost-through-government-broadband-scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052693%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254712"}},{"id":"254711","reference":"AQW 52692/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-11","answerBy":"2016-01-26","answered":"2016-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (i) on what date was the original deadline for applications to the extended Super-connected Cities broadband voucher scheme; (ii) whether this deadline remained unchanged for the duration of the application period; and (iii) how any changes to the deadline were communicated to businesses and third sector groups.","answerText":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in conjunction with local councils. The extended scheme was run on a strict first come, first served basis and was supported by a UK-wide Challenge Fund of £40 million. The scheme was to be completed by 31 March 2016 or whenever the Challenge Fund had been fully allocated, whichever occurred earlier. This requirement did not change over the duration of the scheme.\n\nThe scheme was closed on 12 October 2015 because all of the funding had been committed.","answerHtml":"The Broadband Connection Voucher Scheme was managed and funded by the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) in conjunction with local councils. The extended scheme was run on a strict first come, first served basis and was supported by a UK-wide Challenge Fund of £40 million. The scheme was to be completed by 31 March 2016 or whenever the Challenge Fund had been fully allocated, whichever occurred earlier. This requirement did not change over the duration of the scheme.
The scheme was closed on 12 October 2015 because all of the funding had been committed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052692%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254711"}},{"id":"254582","reference":"AQW 52622/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-08","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how much money was allocated to the Public Health Agency to deliver sexual health education in schools, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"My Department does not fund the Public Health Agency nor do we collate information on the number of schools that use its services. This is a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.","answerHtml":"My Department does not fund the Public Health Agency nor do we collate information on the number of schools that use its services. This is a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052622%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254582"}},{"id":"254581","reference":"AQW 52621/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-08","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what proportion of money allocated to the Public Health Agency to deliver sexual health education in schools remained unused, in each of the last three academic years.","answerText":"My Department does not fund the Public Health Agency nor do we collate information on the number of schools that use its services. This is a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.","answerHtml":"My Department does not fund the Public Health Agency nor do we collate information on the number of schools that use its services. This is a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052621%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254581"}},{"id":"254580","reference":"AQW 52620/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-08","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the schools that have utilised the services of the Public Health Agency to provide sexual health education in the (i) 2013-2014 (ii) 2014-2015; and (iii) 2015-2016 academic years.","answerText":"My Department does not fund the Public Health Agency nor do we collate information on the number of schools that use its services. This is a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.","answerHtml":"My Department does not fund the Public Health Agency nor do we collate information on the number of schools that use its services. This is a matter for the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052620%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254580"}},{"id":"254579","reference":"AQW 52619/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-08","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of why schools are not utilising the specific school designed sexual health education provided by the Public Health Agency.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a policy which is devolved to schools. All schools are required to have in place an RSE policy which sets out how the school will address RSE within the curriculum. My Department commissioned the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment to review and update current guidance and this guidance was issued to schools in August 2015. The Public Health Agency was represented on the Steering Committee that helped CCEA develop the revised guidance.\n\nThe new guidance includes a resource directory and reference section to support schools when they are developing their RSE policies. It is entirely a matter for individual schools to determine which resources and programmes they use to deliver the curriculum.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a policy which is devolved to schools. All schools are required to have in place an RSE policy which sets out how the school will address RSE within the curriculum. My Department commissioned the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment to review and update current guidance and this guidance was issued to schools in August 2015. The Public Health Agency was represented on the Steering Committee that helped CCEA develop the revised guidance.
The new guidance includes a resource directory and reference section to support schools when they are developing their RSE policies. It is entirely a matter for individual schools to determine which resources and programmes they use to deliver the curriculum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052619%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254579"}},{"id":"254578","reference":"AQW 52618/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-08","answerBy":"2016-01-25","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he is encouraging schools to avail of sexual health education provided by the Public Health Agency; and whether he will review this provision.","answerText":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a policy which is devolved to schools. All schools are required to have in place an RSE policy which sets out how the school will address RSE within the curriculum. My Department commissioned the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment to review and update current guidance and this guidance was issued to schools in August 2015. The Public Health Agency was represented on the Steering Committee that helped CCEA develop the revised guidance.\n\nThe new guidance includes a resource directory and reference section to support schools when they are developing their RSE policies. It is entirely a matter for individual schools to determine which resources and programmes they use to deliver the curriculum.","answerHtml":"Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a policy which is devolved to schools. All schools are required to have in place an RSE policy which sets out how the school will address RSE within the curriculum. My Department commissioned the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment to review and update current guidance and this guidance was issued to schools in August 2015. The Public Health Agency was represented on the Steering Committee that helped CCEA develop the revised guidance.
The new guidance includes a resource directory and reference section to support schools when they are developing their RSE policies. It is entirely a matter for individual schools to determine which resources and programmes they use to deliver the curriculum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052618%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254578"}},{"id":"254437","reference":"AQW 52568/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-22","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) how much of the £12 million childcare budget, as allocated in 2011, has now been spent; and (ii) what plans there are to allocate the remainder of the childcare budget, including a timeframe for the spend.","answerText":"Some £4.2 million has been expended from the Executive Childcare Fund. A full break down of spending to date is shown below.\n\nFinancial Year\tSpend\n2011/12\t£322,000\n2012/13\t£1,482,000\n2013/14\t£692,000\n2014/15\t£934,975\n2015/16 (April-September)\t£775,000\n\nThe £12 million Executive Childcare Fund was established in 2011. In the financial years 2011/12 and 2012/13, when there was no Childcare Strategy, Departments bid for a share of this funding by submitting proposals for childcare projects that were additional to the actions they were already supporting from their own baselines. With the launch the first phase of the Childcare Strategy in 2013, the Childcare Strategy Programme Board agreed that the Fund should be used strategically to resource the Key First Actions. The balance of the Fund will be used to resource the Key First Actions of the Childcare Strategy, primarily our commitments to projects funded under the existing School Age Childcare Grant Scheme. We have indicatively profiled these at £3 million up to 2018/19.","answerHtml":"Some £4.2 million has been expended from the Executive Childcare Fund. A full break down of spending to date is shown below.
| Financial Year | Spend |
| 2011/12 | £322,000 |
| 2012/13 | £1,482,000 |
| 2013/14 | £692,000 |
| 2014/15 | £934,975 |
| 2015/16 (April-September) | £775,000 |
The £12 million Executive Childcare Fund was established in 2011. In the financial years 2011/12 and 2012/13, when there was no Childcare Strategy, Departments bid for a share of this funding by submitting proposals for childcare projects that were additional to the actions they were already supporting from their own baselines. With the launch the first phase of the Childcare Strategy in 2013, the Childcare Strategy Programme Board agreed that the Fund should be used strategically to resource the Key First Actions. The balance of the Fund will be used to resource the Key First Actions of the Childcare Strategy, primarily our commitments to projects funded under the existing School Age Childcare Grant Scheme. We have indicatively profiled these at £3 million up to 2018/19.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052568%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254437","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254437"}},{"id":"254435","reference":"AQW 52567/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-22","answered":"2016-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the Retained Duty System GARTAN daily availability figures for Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service stations in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Portrush; (iii) Portstewart; (iv) Ballymoney; (v) Ballycastle; (vi) Cushendall; (vii) Kilrea; (viii) Limavady; and (viiii) Dungiven, in each of the last two years.","answerText":"The Retained Duty System availability information requested is not readily available and could only be provided at a disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"The Retained Duty System availability information requested is not readily available and could only be provided at a disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052567%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254435","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254435"}},{"id":"254405","reference":"AQW 52564/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-22","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of times that the Retained Duty System appliances failed to mobilise in Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue stations in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Portrush; (iii) Portstewart; (iv) Ballymoney; (v) Ballycastle; and (vi) Limavady in each of the last two years.","answerText":"The table below details the number of times the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) Retained Duty System appliances failed to mobilise in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Portrush; (iii) Portstewart; (iv) Ballymoney; (v) Ballycastle; and (vi) Limavady, in each of the last 2 years.\n\nStation\tNumber of occasions when Appliances failed to Respond\n2014\t2015\nColeraine (RDS)\t12\t11\nPortstewart\t7\t3\nPortrush\t3\t6\nBallymoney\t15\t11\nBallycastle\t5\t2\nLimavady\t15\t16\n\nNIFRS’ Regional Control Centre continually monitors Retained availability. Where there is inadequate Retained availability which may result in a failure to respond, crews are mobilised immediately from neighbouring Stations.","answerHtml":"The table below details the number of times the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) Retained Duty System appliances failed to mobilise in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Portrush; (iii) Portstewart; (iv) Ballymoney; (v) Ballycastle; and (vi) Limavady, in each of the last 2 years.
| Station | Number of occasions when Appliances failed to Respond | |
| 2014 | 2015 | |
| Coleraine (RDS) | 12 | 11 |
| Portstewart | 7 | 3 |
| Portrush | 3 | 6 |
| Ballymoney | 15 | 11 |
| Ballycastle | 5 | 2 |
| Limavady | 15 | 16 |
NIFRS’ Regional Control Centre continually monitors Retained availability. Where there is inadequate Retained availability which may result in a failure to respond, crews are mobilised immediately from neighbouring Stations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052564%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254405","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254405"}},{"id":"254403","reference":"AQW 52563/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-22","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the percentage of pupils that have (a) statemented, and (b) non-statemented special educational needs, broken down by each post-primary school in East Londonderry, in each of the last three years; and (ii) what provision exists for special educational needs in mainstream schools.","answerText":"Provision for all children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) is met within the SEN Framework, which comprises SEN Legislation, the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN, and the Supplement to the Code. Within the SEN Framework, provision is matched to the individual needs of the child. Meeting the needs of the individual child remains the focus of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Bill currently passing through the Assembly. Together with new Regulations and a new Code of Practice, the Bill will form part of a revised SEN Framework intended to ensure that children with SEN receive the support they need to achieve their full potential during their school years.\n\nThe statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with SEN rests with schools, and the Education Authority (EA) which is responsible under legislation for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN.\n\nThe Code of Practice, acknowledging that there is a continuum of special educational needs, sets out a five stage approach for the identification of children having learning difficulties, the assessment of their SEN and the special educational provision necessary to meet those needs. Responsibility for pupils within Stages 1-3 lies at school level. At stage 1, the class teacher should provide or arrange special help within the normal curriculum framework. At Stage 2, the school will draw up and implement an Individualised Education Plan, setting out a child’s needs, what strategies should be put in place in the classroom and what support could be provided by parents at home to help the child.\n\nAt Stage 3, the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) will work with the class teacher, outside agencies (the EA) and parents in drawing up and regularly reviewing the Individualised Education Plan. At Stage 3, referrals may be made to the EA’s Educational Psychology Service and/or other EA support services. The EA provides a range of support services, including Specific Learning Difficulties in Literacy, Sensory Impairment, and Autism Advisory Intervention teams. Stage 4 is the formal assessment process and Stage 5 is the issue of a Statement of SEN, where appropriate.\n\nIn addition to the Code and its Supplement, other guidance materials are readily available to mainstream schools and parents in relation to SEN, including:\n\na ‘Resource File’ which contains practical materials to be used by school staff in supporting pupils with SEN; and\n\nthe “Regional Good Practice Guidelines” which were issued to schools by the former Education and Library Boards in 2009.\n\nThe EA also runs a comprehensive range of services and provision to support pupils with learning difficulties, their parents/carers and schools. Examples of support for mainstream schools include:\n\nadvice, support and training to nurseries and some playgroups to support the child’s effective inclusion in mainstream pre-school settings;\n\nadvice and support from learning support staff who can advise schools on individual education plans as well as strategies that may be appropriate for specific children;\n\noutreach support and teaching from staff that are attached to special schools for children at stages 3, 4 and 5 of the Code of Practice;\n\nadult assistants, where appropriate, in mainstream schools for children who have statements of SEN;\n\naccess to placement in learning support classes that are attached to mainstream schools; this provides teaching in a small group placement with inclusion in mainstream classes, as appropriate;\n\naccess to transition services to support the planning of young people’s needs as they transition from school to adult learning programmes; and\n\naccess to counselling services as part of post-primary support.\n\nThe statistical information requested is provided in the table below.\n\nSEN pupils in post-primary schools in East Derry constituency, 2012/13 - 2014/15\n\n2014/15\n(a) statemented\t(b) non-statemented\n3420032\tColeraine Academical Institution\t1.2%\t11.4%\n3210300\tColeraine College\t24.1%\t22.0%\n3410033\tColeraine High School\t*\t5.9%\n3420068\tDominican College, Portstewart\t*\t4.8%\n2410048\tLimavady Grammar School\t1.4%\t8.7%\n2210302\tLimavady High School\t7.0%\t22.8%\n3420034\tLoreto College\t1.0%\t9.4%\n3260290\tNorth Coast Integrated College\t5.1%\t19.6%\n3230110\tSt Joseph's College, Coleraine\t6.8%\t19.5%\n2230077\tSt Mary's High School, Limavady\t5.1%\t28.0%\n2230122\tSt Patricks & St Brigids High School\t9.2%\t35.1%\n2230144\tSt Patrick's College, Dungiven\t6.1%\t23.3%\n3230151\tSt Paul's College\t6.8%\t24.0%\n\n2013/14\n(a) statemented\t(b) non-statemented\n3420032\tColeraine Academical Institution\t*\t11.2%\n3210300\tColeraine College\t24.2%\t24.2%\n3410033\tColeraine High School\t*\t4.8%\n3420068\tDominican College\t1.2%\t4.9%\n2410048\tLimavady Grammar School\t1.4%\t8.8%\n2210302\tLimavady High School\t6.5%\t29.3%\n3420034\tLoreto College\t0.6%\t7.6%\n3260290\tNorth Coast Integrated College\t4.7%\t15.8%\n3230110\tSt Joseph's College\t7.8%\t24.3%\n2230077\tSt Mary's Limavady\t5.2%\t26.8%\n2230122\tSt Patricks & St Brigids High School\t6.7%\t30.6%\n2230144\tSt Patrick's College\t4.3%\t26.1%\n3230151\tSt Paul's College\t8.2%\t23.9%\n\n2012/13\n(a) statemented\t(b) non-statemented\n3420032\tColeraine Academical Institution\t*\t5.0%\n3210300\tColeraine College\t18.8%\t18.4%\n3410033\tColeraine High School\t0.0%\t4.4%\n3420068\tDominican College\t1.4%\t4.8%\n3210013\tGarvagh High School\t*\t19.2%\n2410048\tLimavady Grammar School\t1.3%\t9.1%\n2210302\tLimavady High School\t5.8%\t24.4%\n3420034\tLoreto College\t*\t7.1%\n3260290\tNorth Coast Integrated College\t4.1%\t16.4%\n3230110\tSt Joseph's College\t5.7%\t20.2%\n2230077\tSt Mary's Limavady\t5.1%\t27.1%\n2230122\tSt Patricks & St Brigids High School\t6.4%\t22.0%\n2230144\tSt Patrick's College\t5.2%\t22.3%\n3230151\tSt Paul's College\t7.6%\t18.3%\n\nSource: NI school census\n\nNotes:\n1. Data is based on pupils enrolled on Census day i.e. The Friday of the first full week in October (In 2014/15 this was the 10 October 2014)\n2. 'Statemented' refers to pupils at stage 5 on the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice. 'Non-statemented' refers to pupils at stages 1-4\n\n* denotes fewer than 5 pupils suppressed due to potential identification of individual pupils","answerHtml":"Provision for all children and young people with special educational needs (SEN) is met within the SEN Framework, which comprises SEN Legislation, the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN, and the Supplement to the Code. Within the SEN Framework, provision is matched to the individual needs of the child. Meeting the needs of the individual child remains the focus of the Special Educational Needs and Disability Bill currently passing through the Assembly. Together with new Regulations and a new Code of Practice, the Bill will form part of a revised SEN Framework intended to ensure that children with SEN receive the support they need to achieve their full potential during their school years.
The statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with SEN rests with schools, and the Education Authority (EA) which is responsible under legislation for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN.
The Code of Practice, acknowledging that there is a continuum of special educational needs, sets out a five stage approach for the identification of children having learning difficulties, the assessment of their SEN and the special educational provision necessary to meet those needs. Responsibility for pupils within Stages 1-3 lies at school level. At stage 1, the class teacher should provide or arrange special help within the normal curriculum framework. At Stage 2, the school will draw up and implement an Individualised Education Plan, setting out a child’s needs, what strategies should be put in place in the classroom and what support could be provided by parents at home to help the child.
At Stage 3, the school’s Special Educational Needs Co-ordinator (SENCO) will work with the class teacher, outside agencies (the EA) and parents in drawing up and regularly reviewing the Individualised Education Plan. At Stage 3, referrals may be made to the EA’s Educational Psychology Service and/or other EA support services. The EA provides a range of support services, including Specific Learning Difficulties in Literacy, Sensory Impairment, and Autism Advisory Intervention teams. Stage 4 is the formal assessment process and Stage 5 is the issue of a Statement of SEN, where appropriate.
In addition to the Code and its Supplement, other guidance materials are readily available to mainstream schools and parents in relation to SEN, including:
a ‘Resource File’ which contains practical materials to be used by school staff in supporting pupils with SEN; and
the “Regional Good Practice Guidelines” which were issued to schools by the former Education and Library Boards in 2009.
The EA also runs a comprehensive range of services and provision to support pupils with learning difficulties, their parents/carers and schools. Examples of support for mainstream schools include:
advice, support and training to nurseries and some playgroups to support the child’s effective inclusion in mainstream pre-school settings;
advice and support from learning support staff who can advise schools on individual education plans as well as strategies that may be appropriate for specific children;
outreach support and teaching from staff that are attached to special schools for children at stages 3, 4 and 5 of the Code of Practice;
adult assistants, where appropriate, in mainstream schools for children who have statements of SEN;
access to placement in learning support classes that are attached to mainstream schools; this provides teaching in a small group placement with inclusion in mainstream classes, as appropriate;
access to transition services to support the planning of young people’s needs as they transition from school to adult learning programmes; and
access to counselling services as part of post-primary support.
The statistical information requested is provided in the table below.
| SEN pupils in post-primary schools in East Derry constituency, 2012/13 - 2014/15 | |||||
| 2014/15 | |||||
| (a) statemented | (b) non-statemented | ||||
| 3420032 | Coleraine Academical Institution | 1.2% | 11.4% | ||
| 3210300 | Coleraine College | 24.1% | 22.0% | ||
| 3410033 | Coleraine High School | * | 5.9% | ||
| 3420068 | Dominican College, Portstewart | * | 4.8% | ||
| 2410048 | Limavady Grammar School | 1.4% | 8.7% | ||
| 2210302 | Limavady High School | 7.0% | 22.8% | ||
| 3420034 | Loreto College | 1.0% | 9.4% | ||
| 3260290 | North Coast Integrated College | 5.1% | 19.6% | ||
| 3230110 | St Joseph's College, Coleraine | 6.8% | 19.5% | ||
| 2230077 | St Mary's High School, Limavady | 5.1% | 28.0% | ||
| 2230122 | St Patricks & St Brigids High School | 9.2% | 35.1% | ||
| 2230144 | St Patrick's College, Dungiven | 6.1% | 23.3% | ||
| 3230151 | St Paul's College | 6.8% | 24.0% | ||
| 2013/14 | |||||
| (a) statemented | (b) non-statemented | ||||
| 3420032 | Coleraine Academical Institution | * | 11.2% | ||
| 3210300 | Coleraine College | 24.2% | 24.2% | ||
| 3410033 | Coleraine High School | * | 4.8% | ||
| 3420068 | Dominican College | 1.2% | 4.9% | ||
| 2410048 | Limavady Grammar School | 1.4% | 8.8% | ||
| 2210302 | Limavady High School | 6.5% | 29.3% | ||
| 3420034 | Loreto College | 0.6% | 7.6% | ||
| 3260290 | North Coast Integrated College | 4.7% | 15.8% | ||
| 3230110 | St Joseph's College | 7.8% | 24.3% | ||
| 2230077 | St Mary's Limavady | 5.2% | 26.8% | ||
| 2230122 | St Patricks & St Brigids High School | 6.7% | 30.6% | ||
| 2230144 | St Patrick's College | 4.3% | 26.1% | ||
| 3230151 | St Paul's College | 8.2% | 23.9% | ||
| 2012/13 | |||||
| (a) statemented | (b) non-statemented | ||||
| 3420032 | Coleraine Academical Institution | * | 5.0% | ||
| 3210300 | Coleraine College | 18.8% | 18.4% | ||
| 3410033 | Coleraine High School | 0.0% | 4.4% | ||
| 3420068 | Dominican College | 1.4% | 4.8% | ||
| 3210013 | Garvagh High School | * | 19.2% | ||
| 2410048 | Limavady Grammar School | 1.3% | 9.1% | ||
| 2210302 | Limavady High School | 5.8% | 24.4% | ||
| 3420034 | Loreto College | * | 7.1% | ||
| 3260290 | North Coast Integrated College | 4.1% | 16.4% | ||
| 3230110 | St Joseph's College | 5.7% | 20.2% | ||
| 2230077 | St Mary's Limavady | 5.1% | 27.1% | ||
| 2230122 | St Patricks & St Brigids High School | 6.4% | 22.0% | ||
| 2230144 | St Patrick's College | 5.2% | 22.3% | ||
| 3230151 | St Paul's College | 7.6% | 18.3% | ||
| Source: NI school census | |||||
| Notes: | |||||
| 1. Data is based on pupils enrolled on Census day i.e. The Friday of the first full week in October (In 2014/15 this was the 10 October 2014) | |||||
| 2. 'Statemented' refers to pupils at stage 5 on the Special Educational Needs Code of Practice. 'Non-statemented' refers to pupils at stages 1-4 | |||||
| * denotes fewer than 5 pupils suppressed due to potential identification of individual pupils | |||||
The Education Authority, my Department and the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) have provided a range of training on special educational needs and behavioural management. This is set out as follows:
Education Authority Provision
(i)The Education Authority’s Behaviour Support teams and other Special Educational Needs (SEN) support services provide advice, support and training to schools on a range of issues related to special education and behaviour management. This is provided for nursery, primary and post-primary schools and covers:
general strategies for classroom management;
specific training on conditions such as Attention Deficit and Hyperactivity Disorder; and
specific strategies to meet the needs of individual children where more targeted support is required.
Since 2010 the following training on special education and behaviour has been provided:
Capacity Building including Early Years;
Educational Testing; and
Safe handling.
(ii)Although this training is not mandatory it is encouraged in relation to compliance with the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 in terms of staff accessing training to support children with SEN.
(iii)It is not possible to provide the proportion of teaching staff that had training of this nature in the last twelve months.
Department of Education Funded Provision
(i)My Department has funded a SEN Continuing Professional Development Literacy project run by Stranmillis and St Mary’s University Colleges for three years ending in March 2015. This offered continuing professional development for teachers to develop their capacity to teach reading, spelling and independent writing skills to SEN children of primary school age. It offered training to Masters level for one teacher from each primary school, together with whole school training for all relevant staff.
In addition, my Department also provides funding to The Middletown Centre for Autism which provides a broad range of training courses for educational professionals and parents, and continues to expand the availability of its online research information and training resources for both parents and professionals.
(ii)Neither of these training activities are mandatory.
(iii)563 schools registered for the SEN Continuing Professional Development Literacy project and 6,222 teachers participated, at various levels; this represents almost 70% of the primary schools here.
In the case of the range of training provided by The Middletown Centre for Autism, this training is available to all schools and in 2014/15 training was provided to approximately 4,000 professionals.
Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) Provision
(i)Over the past three years, CCEA has provided training on Quest; the Q Skills; the SEN Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities framework; and Social, Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties (SEBD). Resources are also made available online for teachers to cascade this training to other members of staff in their school. These SEN training courses are currently being transitioned to provide more comprehensive online courses with engaging and interactive resources; these will be available by the end of this academic year.
Q Skills and Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities events have trained over 200 teachers each year. Schools are also able to avail of training for individual teachers or whole school directed time sessions on Quest; the Q Skills; the SEN Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities framework; or SEBD.
(ii)This training is not mandatory for teachers.
(iii)In the past 12 months, CCEA has offered training on the Q Skills assessment resource and the SEN Thinking Skills and Personal Capabilities framework to every primary school and SEN school here. Approximately 240 teachers attended these training events, representing over 200 schools.
Other Provision
There are also many other organisations that provide SEN training and schools are free to supplement any training provided by statutory agencies. My Department does not hold details of any training provided by independent organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052562%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254401","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254401"}},{"id":"254406","reference":"AQO 9434/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, following his decision to amalgamate Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution, when Coleraine Grammar School will receive the capital funds needed to ensure the new amalgamated school is fit for purpose as a mixed gender school.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209434%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254406","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254406"}},{"id":"255785","reference":"AQO 9434/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, following his decision to amalgamate Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution, when Coleraine Grammar School will receive the capital funds needed to ensure the new amalgamated school is fit for purpose as a mixed gender school.","answerText":"I committed approximately £2.9m to the School Enhancement scheme for Coleraine Grammar which included £547k specifically for the refurbishment and reassignment of 44 toilets to meet the needs of a mixed gender school on the former Coleraine Academical Institution (CAI) site. These works were completed in November 2015 and have not only provided the necessary toilets for girls but have also provided disabled toilet facilities and improved the existing provision for boys and staff.\n\nIn addition, I have funded capital minor works for the conversion of the weights room at the former CAI site to a girls changing room at a cost of over £27k, which was completed in September 2015. A further more substantial investment in changing facilities requested by the school cannot be considered until the on-going legal issues between Coleraine Grammar and the CAI Trust are resolved and Coleraine Grammar have secured long term access to the former CAI site.\n\nI have also provided funding of over £6k to ensure that the former Coleraine High School site is fit for purpose as a mixed gender school.","answerHtml":"I committed approximately £2.9m to the School Enhancement scheme for Coleraine Grammar which included £547k specifically for the refurbishment and reassignment of 44 toilets to meet the needs of a mixed gender school on the former Coleraine Academical Institution (CAI) site. These works were completed in November 2015 and have not only provided the necessary toilets for girls but have also provided disabled toilet facilities and improved the existing provision for boys and staff.
In addition, I have funded capital minor works for the conversion of the weights room at the former CAI site to a girls changing room at a cost of over £27k, which was completed in September 2015. A further more substantial investment in changing facilities requested by the school cannot be considered until the on-going legal issues between Coleraine Grammar and the CAI Trust are resolved and Coleraine Grammar have secured long term access to the former CAI site.
I have also provided funding of over £6k to ensure that the former Coleraine High School site is fit for purpose as a mixed gender school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209434%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255785","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255785"}},{"id":"254418","reference":"AQO 9418/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning why there has been a delay in announcing a new build for the Northern Regional College.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209418%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254418","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254418"}},{"id":"255779","reference":"AQO 9418/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-07","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning why there has been a delay in announcing a new build for the Northern Regional College.","answerText":"The Northern Regional College submitted a final Outline Business Case to the Department on 15th October 2015, proposing an estates solution for the college which focuses on provision in the Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena areas.\n\nFollowing assessment by my Department, I gave my formal approval to the Business Case on 23 November 2015. As part of the process it has now been passed to the Department of Finance and Personnel for their consideration.\n\nCapital projects of this scale are subject to a very high level of scrutiny in order to ensure they represent value for money and it is critical that due diligence is exercised in such cases.\n\nIn this particular case, further information was required from the college on aspects of the Business Case. While this has been provided, DFP may require further clarification in the assessment process.\n\nThere can be no announcement on this project until DFP approval has been secured.","answerHtml":"The Northern Regional College submitted a final Outline Business Case to the Department on 15th October 2015, proposing an estates solution for the college which focuses on provision in the Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena areas.
Following assessment by my Department, I gave my formal approval to the Business Case on 23 November 2015. As part of the process it has now been passed to the Department of Finance and Personnel for their consideration.
Capital projects of this scale are subject to a very high level of scrutiny in order to ensure they represent value for money and it is critical that due diligence is exercised in such cases.
In this particular case, further information was required from the college on aspects of the Business Case. While this has been provided, DFP may require further clarification in the assessment process.
There can be no announcement on this project until DFP approval has been secured.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209418%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=255779","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=255779"}},{"id":"254299","reference":"AQW 52514/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-06","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why the outcome of the consultation on the future of the Lifeline Service has been postponed.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency’s report on the Lifeline consultation was submitted to my Department on 21 January. I am considering the report and the associated recommendations for the new Lifeline service. A decision on the new service will be announced shortly.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency’s report on the Lifeline consultation was submitted to my Department on 21 January. I am considering the report and the associated recommendations for the new Lifeline service. A decision on the new service will be announced shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052514%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254299","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254299"}},{"id":"254297","reference":"AQW 52512/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-06","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has appointed an independent professional to analyse responses to the Public Health Agency's Lifeline consultation.","answerText":"I have not appointed an independent professional to analyse responses to the Lifeline consultation.","answerHtml":"I have not appointed an independent professional to analyse responses to the Lifeline consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052512%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254297","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254297"}},{"id":"254296","reference":"AQW 52511/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-06","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether responses to the Public Health Agency's Lifeline consultation will be analysed independent of (i) officials that commission the service; (ii) people that manage the performance reporting relationship with the Lifeline service provider contract; (iii) people that devised the proposed consultation options; (iv) people that will advise the Public Health Agency Board; and (v) people that managed this consultation process.","answerText":"Effective analysis of the consultation responses on the proposed new Lifeline service requires detailed knowledge of the existing service including the standards it is required to meet. Public Health Agency staff who manage both the Lifeline service contract and the consultation process on a new service are involved in the analysis of the consultation responses and in the development of the consultation report. This report will be considered by the Board of the Agency and submitted to the Department.","answerHtml":"Effective analysis of the consultation responses on the proposed new Lifeline service requires detailed knowledge of the existing service including the standards it is required to meet. Public Health Agency staff who manage both the Lifeline service contract and the consultation process on a new service are involved in the analysis of the consultation responses and in the development of the consultation report. This report will be considered by the Board of the Agency and submitted to the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052511%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254296","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254296"}},{"id":"254291","reference":"AQW 52507/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-06","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail all the organisations and groups that received funding from the Youth Council prior to his decision to abolish it.","answerText":"The following organisations and groups received funding from the Youth Council during 2015/16:\n\nInfrastructure Grant Funding\n\nBoys Brigade\n\nCatholic Guides of Ireland\n\nClubs for Young People\n\nDuke of Edinburgh’s Award\n\nGirlguiding Ulster\n\nGirls’ Brigade\n\nInclude Youth\n\nNational Council of YMCAs\n\nNI Scout Council\n\nNI Youth Forum\n\nPlayboard\n\nScouting Ireland (also youth outreach)\n\nYoung Farmers Clubs of Ulster\n\nYouthAction NI (also youth outreach)\n\nYouth Link NI (also youth outreach)\n\nYouthNet NI\n\nThematic Infrastructure Grant Funding\n\nBelfast Community Circus\n\nHeadliners\n\nAction Deaf Youth\n\nOcean Youth Trust\n\nMac\n\nPlay Resource\n\nPublic Achievement\n\nRNIB\n\nRoyal Mencap Association (also youth outreach)\n\nShare\n\nSt John’s Ambulance\n\nStart 360\n\nVolunteer Now\n\nWheelworks\n\nYoung at Art\n\nTransitional Funding\n\nBytes\n\nPrince’s Trust\n\nMillennium Volunteers (also youth outreach project)\n\nCapacity Building\n\nGLYNI (also youth outreach project)\n\nYouth Initiatives","answerHtml":"The following organisations and groups received funding from the Youth Council during 2015/16:
Infrastructure Grant Funding
Boys Brigade
Catholic Guides of Ireland
Clubs for Young People
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award
Girlguiding Ulster
Girls’ Brigade
Include Youth
National Council of YMCAs
NI Scout Council
NI Youth Forum
Playboard
Scouting Ireland (also youth outreach)
Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster
YouthAction NI (also youth outreach)
Youth Link NI (also youth outreach)
YouthNet NI
Thematic Infrastructure Grant Funding
Belfast Community Circus
Headliners
Action Deaf Youth
Ocean Youth Trust
Mac
Play Resource
Public Achievement
RNIB
Royal Mencap Association (also youth outreach)
Share
St John’s Ambulance
Start 360
Volunteer Now
Wheelworks
Young at Art
Transitional Funding
Bytes
Prince’s Trust
Millennium Volunteers (also youth outreach project)
Capacity Building
GLYNI (also youth outreach project)
Youth Initiatives
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052507%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254291"}},{"id":"254290","reference":"AQW 52506/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-06","answerBy":"2016-01-21","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) any discussions he has had with organisations and groups that previously received funding from the Youth Council; and (ii) what assurances he can give organisations and groups that they will continue to receive funding for activities following the abolition of the Youth Council.","answerText":"In addition to the formal public consultation for the Future of the Youth Council, I met with representatives from Youthnet (8 July) and Youth Action (2 September) to discuss issues around the consultation proposals. Both of these organisations receive funding from the Youth Council during 2015-16.\n\nIn my written statement to the Assembly (10 December 2015), I have given an undertaking to earmark funding destined for regional voluntary youth organisations so that they can be confident that it will be available for their use, no matter what other priorities the Education Authority may have.","answerHtml":"In addition to the formal public consultation for the Future of the Youth Council, I met with representatives from Youthnet (8 July) and Youth Action (2 September) to discuss issues around the consultation proposals. Both of these organisations receive funding from the Youth Council during 2015-16.
In my written statement to the Assembly (10 December 2015), I have given an undertaking to earmark funding destined for regional voluntary youth organisations so that they can be confident that it will be available for their use, no matter what other priorities the Education Authority may have.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052506%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254290"}},{"id":"254155","reference":"AQW 52462/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-05","answerBy":"2016-01-20","answered":"2016-01-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) why nurses in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust are not paid for overtime hours worked; (ii) how policy on the payment for overtime hours worked has changed in the last five years, and (iii) whether this is congruent across all Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"In the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, if it is agreed with their manager that overtime is necessary, and an employee submits an overtime claim to the Trust, then it will be paid as overtime.\n\nPayment for overtime hours is in accordance with Agenda for Change (AfC) Terms and Conditions of Service i.e. time plus half the normal hourly rate, with the exception of work on general public holidays, which will be paid at double time. This has been a consistent approach since the implementation of the AfC Terms and Conditions of Service in 2004.\n\nThe Agenda for Change Terms and Conditions of Service applies to all AfC staff.","answerHtml":"In the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, if it is agreed with their manager that overtime is necessary, and an employee submits an overtime claim to the Trust, then it will be paid as overtime.
Payment for overtime hours is in accordance with Agenda for Change (AfC) Terms and Conditions of Service i.e. time plus half the normal hourly rate, with the exception of work on general public holidays, which will be paid at double time. This has been a consistent approach since the implementation of the AfC Terms and Conditions of Service in 2004.
The Agenda for Change Terms and Conditions of Service applies to all AfC staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052462%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254155","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254155"}},{"id":"254151","reference":"AQW 52460/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-05","answerBy":"2016-01-20","answered":"2016-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on incremental pay increases for primary and post-primary teachers; including (i) when pay increments were originally due; (ii) when they will be received; and (iii) whether staff will receive back payments.","answerText":"Pay increments for teachers are due from the 01 September on an annual basis. In accordance with the Executive pay remit process, temporary cover was obtained from DFP which ensured that the pay increments for 2015 were paid to eligible permanent teachers in September 2015, while eligible temporary teachers received their incremental pay increase in October 2015.","answerHtml":"Pay increments for teachers are due from the 01 September on an annual basis. In accordance with the Executive pay remit process, temporary cover was obtained from DFP which ensured that the pay increments for 2015 were paid to eligible permanent teachers in September 2015, while eligible temporary teachers received their incremental pay increase in October 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052460%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254151"}},{"id":"254149","reference":"AQW 52458/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-05","answerBy":"2016-01-20","answered":"2016-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the incremental pay increases for teachers in Further Education colleges; including (i) when pay uplifts were originally due; (ii) when they will now be received; and (iii) whether staff will receive back payments.","answerText":"Progression increases for lecturing staff in Further Education colleges are due on 1st September each year. A request for temporary cover to apply progression increases due in September 2015 was approved by DFP on 14 December 2015. All six colleges have confirmed that the progression increases, including back payment, will be paid at the end of January 2016.","answerHtml":"Progression increases for lecturing staff in Further Education colleges are due on 1st September each year. A request for temporary cover to apply progression increases due in September 2015 was approved by DFP on 14 December 2015. All six colleges have confirmed that the progression increases, including back payment, will be paid at the end of January 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052458%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254149"}},{"id":"254148","reference":"AQW 52457/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-05","answerBy":"2016-01-08","answered":"2016-01-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, following the outcome of the Comprehensive Spending Review, when he will announce the decision on a new Northern Regional College.","answerText":"I have approved the capital projects Outline Business Case (OBC) submitted by the Northern Regional College. This was subsequently forwarded to the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) for consideration on the 23rd November 2015. DFP are currently considering the business case and no announcement can be made until their approval has been received.\n\nPlease note that should the OBC be cleared by DFP, there will still be a significant lead in time before construction could commence and therefore any construction costs would be outside the one year period of the recently agreed Comprehensive Spending Review.","answerHtml":"I have approved the capital projects Outline Business Case (OBC) submitted by the Northern Regional College. This was subsequently forwarded to the Department of Finance and Personnel (DFP) for consideration on the 23rd November 2015. DFP are currently considering the business case and no announcement can be made until their approval has been received.
Please note that should the OBC be cleared by DFP, there will still be a significant lead in time before construction could commence and therefore any construction costs would be outside the one year period of the recently agreed Comprehensive Spending Review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052457%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254148","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254148"}},{"id":"254006","reference":"AQW 52379/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-04","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the number of people with diabetes broken down by Health and Social Care Trust; and (ii) how many are currently enrolled in a specialist chronic condition self-management programme.","answerText":"(i) Diabetes is one of the disease registers in the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF), the purpose of which is to reward General Medical Services contractors for the provision of quality care. Further information on the QOF can be found at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/articles/quality-and-outcomes-framework-qof-statistics-annual-report, whilst all available QOF data can be accessed on the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety’s website at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/articles/qof-achievement-data.\n\nIn relation to diabetes, the contractor establishes and maintains a register of all patients aged 17 or over with diabetes mellitus, which specifies the type of diabetes where a diagnosis has been confirmed. The total number of people on the diabetes register in Northern Ireland, at 31st March 2015, was 84,836. This data is collected at LCG level, as shown in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1 Number of people on the QOF diabetes register in Northern Ireland, 31st March 2015\n\nLCG\tNumber of people on the QOF diabetes register, at 31st March 2015\nBelfast\t18,786\nSouth Eastern\t14,536\nNorthern\t21,749\nSouthern\t16,016\nWestern\t13,749\nNorthern Ireland\t84,836\n\nSource: Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF)\n\n(ii) Information on the number of people with diabetes who are currently enrolled in a specialist chronic condition self-management programme is not available. Information on structured patient education programmes delivered in Northern Ireland by both statutory and third sector providers is collected by my Department on an annual basis. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes was published in March 2015 and provides information on structured patient education programmes delivered during 2013/14. The report can be accessed via the DHSSPS website at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/pesmp-ltc-ni-13-14.pdf.\n\nA total of 318 condition specific structured patient education programmes for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.\n\nAn exercise is currently being undertaken by my Department to collect information for patient education programmes delivered in 2014/15.","answerHtml":"(i) Diabetes is one of the disease registers in the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF), the purpose of which is to reward General Medical Services contractors for the provision of quality care. Further information on the QOF can be found at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/articles/quality-and-outcomes-framework-qof-statistics-annual-report, whilst all available QOF data can be accessed on the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety’s website at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/articles/qof-achievement-data.
In relation to diabetes, the contractor establishes and maintains a register of all patients aged 17 or over with diabetes mellitus, which specifies the type of diabetes where a diagnosis has been confirmed. The total number of people on the diabetes register in Northern Ireland, at 31st March 2015, was 84,836. This data is collected at LCG level, as shown in Table 1 below.
Table 1 Number of people on the QOF diabetes register in Northern Ireland, 31st March 2015
| LCG | Number of people on the QOF diabetes register, at 31st March 2015 |
| Belfast | 18,786 |
| South Eastern | 14,536 |
| Northern | 21,749 |
| Southern | 16,016 |
| Western | 13,749 |
| Northern Ireland | 84,836 |
Source: Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF)
(ii) Information on the number of people with diabetes who are currently enrolled in a specialist chronic condition self-management programme is not available. Information on structured patient education programmes delivered in Northern Ireland by both statutory and third sector providers is collected by my Department on an annual basis. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes was published in March 2015 and provides information on structured patient education programmes delivered during 2013/14. The report can be accessed via the DHSSPS website at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/sites/default/files/publications/dhssps/pesmp-ltc-ni-13-14.pdf.
A total of 318 condition specific structured patient education programmes for Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.
An exercise is currently being undertaken by my Department to collect information for patient education programmes delivered in 2014/15.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052379%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254006"}},{"id":"254004","reference":"AQW 52378/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-04","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how his Department has met the current Programme for Government commitment to enrol everyone that has a long-term condition in a self-management programme.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that services are in place to improve the health and well-being of people living with long term conditions, including diabetes.\n\nMy Department’s Policy Framework ‘Living with Long Term Conditions’ (2012) recognises the important role that structured patient education programmes play in supporting people to self manage their condition. A Regional Long Term Conditions Implementation Group, led by the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board and including representation from Health and Social Care Trusts and the Long Term Conditions Alliance NI, is in place to implement the good practice outlined in the Policy Framework. The Regional Implementation Group has developed an implementation plan which includes actions to improve access to structured patient education programmes.\n\nA review of diabetes services, led by the Chief Medical Officer was initiated in 2012. The review report was published in June 2014. One of the review report’s 11 recommendations was to widen access to patient education and self management programmes. My Department is currently working with key stakeholders to consider how the recommendations of the review report can be taken forward.\n\nAlongside this, a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment has been in place to enrol people who have a long term (chronic) condition, and who want to be enrolled, in a dedicated condition management programme. Significant progress has been made in achieving this commitment. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes (both condition specific and generic) delivered in 2013/14 was published in March 2015 and showed a year on year increase in both the number of programmes delivered and the number of programme participants in 2013/14 compared with 2012/13 and the PfG baseline monitoring year 2011/12.\n\nBetween 2011/12 and 2013/14, the number of structured patient education programmes delivered increased by 34.5% from 625 to 841. Participant numbers over the same period increased by 25% from 10,189 to 12,741. A total of 318 structured patient education programmes covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.\n\nA series of workshops has taken place to explore themes and outcomes for a framework for the next Programme for Government 2016-21. Further workshops are planned and my Department will continue to be fully engaged in this process.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that services are in place to improve the health and well-being of people living with long term conditions, including diabetes.
My Department’s Policy Framework ‘Living with Long Term Conditions’ (2012) recognises the important role that structured patient education programmes play in supporting people to self manage their condition. A Regional Long Term Conditions Implementation Group, led by the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board and including representation from Health and Social Care Trusts and the Long Term Conditions Alliance NI, is in place to implement the good practice outlined in the Policy Framework. The Regional Implementation Group has developed an implementation plan which includes actions to improve access to structured patient education programmes.
A review of diabetes services, led by the Chief Medical Officer was initiated in 2012. The review report was published in June 2014. One of the review report’s 11 recommendations was to widen access to patient education and self management programmes. My Department is currently working with key stakeholders to consider how the recommendations of the review report can be taken forward.
Alongside this, a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment has been in place to enrol people who have a long term (chronic) condition, and who want to be enrolled, in a dedicated condition management programme. Significant progress has been made in achieving this commitment. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes (both condition specific and generic) delivered in 2013/14 was published in March 2015 and showed a year on year increase in both the number of programmes delivered and the number of programme participants in 2013/14 compared with 2012/13 and the PfG baseline monitoring year 2011/12.
Between 2011/12 and 2013/14, the number of structured patient education programmes delivered increased by 34.5% from 625 to 841. Participant numbers over the same period increased by 25% from 10,189 to 12,741. A total of 318 structured patient education programmes covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.
A series of workshops has taken place to explore themes and outcomes for a framework for the next Programme for Government 2016-21. Further workshops are planned and my Department will continue to be fully engaged in this process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052378%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254004"}},{"id":"254002","reference":"AQW 52377/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-04","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether a commitment to enrol everyone that has a long-term condition in a self-management programme is a priority for his Department during ongoing discussions for the 2016-2020 Programme for Government.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that services are in place to improve the health and well-being of people living with long term conditions, including diabetes.\n\nMy Department’s Policy Framework ‘Living with Long Term Conditions’ (2012) recognises the important role that structured patient education programmes play in supporting people to self manage their condition. A Regional Long Term Conditions Implementation Group, led by the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board and including representation from Health and Social Care Trusts and the Long Term Conditions Alliance NI, is in place to implement the good practice outlined in the Policy Framework. The Regional Implementation Group has developed an implementation plan which includes actions to improve access to structured patient education programmes.\n\nA review of diabetes services, led by the Chief Medical Officer was initiated in 2012. The review report was published in June 2014. One of the review report’s 11 recommendations was to widen access to patient education and self management programmes. My Department is currently working with key stakeholders to consider how the recommendations of the review report can be taken forward.\n\nAlongside this, a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment has been in place to enrol people who have a long term (chronic) condition, and who want to be enrolled, in a dedicated condition management programme. Significant progress has been made in achieving this commitment. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes (both condition specific and generic) delivered in 2013/14 was published in March 2015 and showed a year on year increase in both the number of programmes delivered and the number of programme participants in 2013/14 compared with 2012/13 and the PfG baseline monitoring year 2011/12.\n\nBetween 2011/12 and 2013/14, the number of structured patient education programmes delivered increased by 34.5% from 625 to 841. Participant numbers over the same period increased by 25% from 10,189 to 12,741. A total of 318 structured patient education programmes covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.\n\nA series of workshops has taken place to explore themes and outcomes for a framework for the next Programme for Government 2016-21. Further workshops are planned and my Department will continue to be fully engaged in this process.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that services are in place to improve the health and well-being of people living with long term conditions, including diabetes.
My Department’s Policy Framework ‘Living with Long Term Conditions’ (2012) recognises the important role that structured patient education programmes play in supporting people to self manage their condition. A Regional Long Term Conditions Implementation Group, led by the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board and including representation from Health and Social Care Trusts and the Long Term Conditions Alliance NI, is in place to implement the good practice outlined in the Policy Framework. The Regional Implementation Group has developed an implementation plan which includes actions to improve access to structured patient education programmes.
A review of diabetes services, led by the Chief Medical Officer was initiated in 2012. The review report was published in June 2014. One of the review report’s 11 recommendations was to widen access to patient education and self management programmes. My Department is currently working with key stakeholders to consider how the recommendations of the review report can be taken forward.
Alongside this, a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment has been in place to enrol people who have a long term (chronic) condition, and who want to be enrolled, in a dedicated condition management programme. Significant progress has been made in achieving this commitment. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes (both condition specific and generic) delivered in 2013/14 was published in March 2015 and showed a year on year increase in both the number of programmes delivered and the number of programme participants in 2013/14 compared with 2012/13 and the PfG baseline monitoring year 2011/12.
Between 2011/12 and 2013/14, the number of structured patient education programmes delivered increased by 34.5% from 625 to 841. Participant numbers over the same period increased by 25% from 10,189 to 12,741. A total of 318 structured patient education programmes covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.
A series of workshops has taken place to explore themes and outcomes for a framework for the next Programme for Government 2016-21. Further workshops are planned and my Department will continue to be fully engaged in this process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052377%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=254002","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=254002"}},{"id":"253996","reference":"AQW 52376/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-04","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department will ensure that each Health and Social Care Trust will provide access to a (i) diabetes education course; and (ii) range of options to learn about diabetes on an on-going basis, for each person with diabetes.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that services are in place to improve the health and well-being of people living with long term conditions, including diabetes.\n\nMy Department’s Policy Framework ‘Living with Long Term Conditions’ (2012) recognises the important role that structured patient education programmes play in supporting people to self manage their condition. A Regional Long Term Conditions Implementation Group, led by the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board and including representation from Health and Social Care Trusts and the Long Term Conditions Alliance NI, is in place to implement the good practice outlined in the Policy Framework. The Regional Implementation Group has developed an implementation plan which includes actions to improve access to structured patient education programmes.\n\nA review of diabetes services, led by the Chief Medical Officer was initiated in 2012. The review report was published in June 2014. One of the review report’s 11 recommendations was to widen access to patient education and self management programmes. My Department is currently working with key stakeholders to consider how the recommendations of the review report can be taken forward.\n\nAlongside this, a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment has been in place to enrol people who have a long term (chronic) condition, and who want to be enrolled, in a dedicated condition management programme. Significant progress has been made in achieving this commitment. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes (both condition specific and generic) delivered in 2013/14 was published in March 2015 and showed a year on year increase in both the number of programmes delivered and the number of programme participants in 2013/14 compared with 2012/13 and the PfG baseline monitoring year 2011/12.\n\nBetween 2011/12 and 2013/14, the number of structured patient education programmes delivered increased by 34.5% from 625 to 841. Participant numbers over the same period increased by 25% from 10,189 to 12,741. A total of 318 structured patient education programmes covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.\n\nA series of workshops has taken place to explore themes and outcomes for a framework for the next Programme for Government 2016-21. Further workshops are planned and my Department will continue to be fully engaged in this process.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that services are in place to improve the health and well-being of people living with long term conditions, including diabetes.
My Department’s Policy Framework ‘Living with Long Term Conditions’ (2012) recognises the important role that structured patient education programmes play in supporting people to self manage their condition. A Regional Long Term Conditions Implementation Group, led by the Public Health Agency and Health and Social Care Board and including representation from Health and Social Care Trusts and the Long Term Conditions Alliance NI, is in place to implement the good practice outlined in the Policy Framework. The Regional Implementation Group has developed an implementation plan which includes actions to improve access to structured patient education programmes.
A review of diabetes services, led by the Chief Medical Officer was initiated in 2012. The review report was published in June 2014. One of the review report’s 11 recommendations was to widen access to patient education and self management programmes. My Department is currently working with key stakeholders to consider how the recommendations of the review report can be taken forward.
Alongside this, a Programme for Government (PfG) commitment has been in place to enrol people who have a long term (chronic) condition, and who want to be enrolled, in a dedicated condition management programme. Significant progress has been made in achieving this commitment. The most recent summary report for structured patient education programmes (both condition specific and generic) delivered in 2013/14 was published in March 2015 and showed a year on year increase in both the number of programmes delivered and the number of programme participants in 2013/14 compared with 2012/13 and the PfG baseline monitoring year 2011/12.
Between 2011/12 and 2013/14, the number of structured patient education programmes delivered increased by 34.5% from 625 to 841. Participant numbers over the same period increased by 25% from 10,189 to 12,741. A total of 318 structured patient education programmes covering both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes were delivered in 2013/14, with 2,738 participants.
A series of workshops has taken place to explore themes and outcomes for a framework for the next Programme for Government 2016-21. Further workshops are planned and my Department will continue to be fully engaged in this process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052376%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253996","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253996"}},{"id":"253994","reference":"AQW 52375/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2016-01-04","answerBy":"2016-01-19","answered":"2016-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what plans his Department has to improve the way in which Diabetes is (i) self-managed; and (ii) prevented.","answerText":"It is estimated that 80% of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by promoting healthy eating, physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Tackling obesity amongst the population (of which approximately 60% are either overweight or obese) remains an important part of our approach to reducing the numbers of new cases of Type 2 diabetes in the future.\n\nIn June 2014, my Department published a Public Health Strategic Framework – ‘Making Life Better’ (MLB). This provides the overall framework for public health for the next 10 years and will bring together actions across government to improve public health by addressing the determinants of ill-health and health inequalities. Underpinning MLB, the Framework for Preventing and Addressing Overweight and Obesity in Northern Ireland 2012-2022: A Fitter Future for All (2012) aims to address the issue of overweight and obesity through a co-ordinated, integrated and cross-sectoral approach. A recent three year review of the Framework has indicated that over 75% of the actions identified are on course for completion by the set target dates.\n\nOn 8 March 2016, I launched for public consultation a draft Diabetes Strategic Framework. The overall aim of the Strategic Framework is to realise a vision of care which improves outcomes for people living with diabetes, or at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Empowering people to self manage through structured diabetes education and primary and secondary prevention are key themes of the Strategic Framework. The Diabetes Strategic Framework includes an implementation plan with actions to support each of the Framework’s key themes.\n\nAt the same time, I also announced an investment package of £1.7milion to support diabetes services, £1million of which is part of the recently announced £30 million health and social care Transformation Fund, set up to support projects and initiatives which are focused on innovation, prevention and collaboration.\n\nA copy of the Diabetes Strategic Framework consultation document can be accessed at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/consultations. The consultation period will end on 31 May 2016.","answerHtml":"It is estimated that 80% of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented or delayed by promoting healthy eating, physical activity and a healthy lifestyle. Tackling obesity amongst the population (of which approximately 60% are either overweight or obese) remains an important part of our approach to reducing the numbers of new cases of Type 2 diabetes in the future.
In June 2014, my Department published a Public Health Strategic Framework – ‘Making Life Better’ (MLB). This provides the overall framework for public health for the next 10 years and will bring together actions across government to improve public health by addressing the determinants of ill-health and health inequalities. Underpinning MLB, the Framework for Preventing and Addressing Overweight and Obesity in Northern Ireland 2012-2022: A Fitter Future for All (2012) aims to address the issue of overweight and obesity through a co-ordinated, integrated and cross-sectoral approach. A recent three year review of the Framework has indicated that over 75% of the actions identified are on course for completion by the set target dates.
On 8 March 2016, I launched for public consultation a draft Diabetes Strategic Framework. The overall aim of the Strategic Framework is to realise a vision of care which improves outcomes for people living with diabetes, or at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Empowering people to self manage through structured diabetes education and primary and secondary prevention are key themes of the Strategic Framework. The Diabetes Strategic Framework includes an implementation plan with actions to support each of the Framework’s key themes.
At the same time, I also announced an investment package of £1.7milion to support diabetes services, £1million of which is part of the recently announced £30 million health and social care Transformation Fund, set up to support projects and initiatives which are focused on innovation, prevention and collaboration.
A copy of the Diabetes Strategic Framework consultation document can be accessed at https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/consultations. The consultation period will end on 31 May 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052375%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253994"}},{"id":"253159","reference":"AQW 52309/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-11","answerBy":"2015-12-31","answered":"2016-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail the due process for making a final decision on a planning application that is being reviewed by the Planning Appeals Commission.","answerText":"In accordance with Section 29 (8) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, following any Planning Appeals hearing, the Commission will prepare a report for the Department. Whilst the final decision will rest with me, the Department will fully consider the Commission’s report in determining the application.","answerHtml":"In accordance with Section 29 (8) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, following any Planning Appeals hearing, the Commission will prepare a report for the Department. Whilst the final decision will rest with me, the Department will fully consider the Commission’s report in determining the application.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052309%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253159","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253159"}},{"id":"253157","reference":"AQW 52307/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-11","answerBy":"2015-12-31","answered":"2016-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail how a Planning Appeals Commission outcome affects his decision when he has provided an intention to approve a planning application.","answerText":"In accordance with Section 29 (8) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, following any Planning Appeals hearing, the Commission will prepare a report for the Department. Whilst the final decision will rest with me, the Department will fully consider the Commission’s report in determining the application.","answerHtml":"In accordance with Section 29 (8) of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, following any Planning Appeals hearing, the Commission will prepare a report for the Department. Whilst the final decision will rest with me, the Department will fully consider the Commission’s report in determining the application.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052307%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253157"}},{"id":"253155","reference":"AQW 52305/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-11","answerBy":"2015-12-31","answered":"2016-01-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether she intends to introduce rates relief for businesses that were affected by recent flooding.","answerText":"Where business ratepayers are struggling to make payments as a consequence of recent flooding, LPS will look at this sympathetically. Anyone in this position is eligible to apply to LPS for hardship rate relief and this will be assessed on the information provided. This is not a general compensation scheme, however individual business ratepayers who are badly affected and are able to demonstrate financial hardship (in accordance with the scheme criteria) can be granted some easement in relation to payments.\n\nA factsheet and application form can be found at:\n\nhttps://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/hardship-relief","answerHtml":"Where business ratepayers are struggling to make payments as a consequence of recent flooding, LPS will look at this sympathetically. Anyone in this position is eligible to apply to LPS for hardship rate relief and this will be assessed on the information provided. This is not a general compensation scheme, however individual business ratepayers who are badly affected and are able to demonstrate financial hardship (in accordance with the scheme criteria) can be granted some easement in relation to payments.
A factsheet and application form can be found at:
https://www.nibusinessinfo.co.uk/content/hardship-relief
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052305%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253155","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253155"}},{"id":"253153","reference":"AQW 52303/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-11","answerBy":"2015-12-31","answered":"2015-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he will ensure the effective and efficient delivery of youth services that are undertaken by the Youth Council Northern Ireland following his decision to abolish this organisation.","answerText":"I announced the way forward for funding and support for youth services in my statement to the Assembly on 10 December on the future of the Youth Council. The Education Authority will now review its arrangements for youth services to ensure that the planning and coordination of all youth services funded by the Department of Education from 1 April 2016 are delivered effectively in line with current Ministerial priorities and Priorities for youth.\n\nI also outlined my intention to establish a Partnership, chaired by my Department, involving the Education Authority and other key stakeholders.\n\nThe overall purpose of the Partnership is to support the implementation of the new arrangements for administration and funding of regional youth services; secure full integration of regional and local youth services within the Education Authority; ensure that the key knowledge and understanding of the Regional Voluntary Youth Organisations and other dimensions of youth services is transferred effectively to the Education Authority; and to find workable solutions which will enable the new arrangements to be as effective as possible.","answerHtml":"I announced the way forward for funding and support for youth services in my statement to the Assembly on 10 December on the future of the Youth Council. The Education Authority will now review its arrangements for youth services to ensure that the planning and coordination of all youth services funded by the Department of Education from 1 April 2016 are delivered effectively in line with current Ministerial priorities and Priorities for youth.
I also outlined my intention to establish a Partnership, chaired by my Department, involving the Education Authority and other key stakeholders.
The overall purpose of the Partnership is to support the implementation of the new arrangements for administration and funding of regional youth services; secure full integration of regional and local youth services within the Education Authority; ensure that the key knowledge and understanding of the Regional Voluntary Youth Organisations and other dimensions of youth services is transferred effectively to the Education Authority; and to find workable solutions which will enable the new arrangements to be as effective as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052303%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253153","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253153"}},{"id":"253152","reference":"AQW 52302/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-11","answerBy":"2015-12-31","answered":"2015-12-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what assurance he will give that funding that was provided for the specific functions of the Youth Council will be protected once the Youth Council is subsumed into the Education Authority.","answerText":"As set out in my Statement to the Assembly (10 December ) the funding provided to support the work of Regional Voluntary Youth Organisations will, from April 2016, be earmarked and routed through the Education Authority which will oversee its distribution and work in a new and constructive way with the Regional Voluntary Youth Organisations.\n\nIn terms of the overall budgetary position, Departmental budgets beyond 2015-16 are not yet available and I cannot, therefore, confirm at this stage if I will be in a position to maintain the current budget. However I will ring fence the budget for Voluntary youth work within the EA budget.","answerHtml":"As set out in my Statement to the Assembly (10 December ) the funding provided to support the work of Regional Voluntary Youth Organisations will, from April 2016, be earmarked and routed through the Education Authority which will oversee its distribution and work in a new and constructive way with the Regional Voluntary Youth Organisations.
In terms of the overall budgetary position, Departmental budgets beyond 2015-16 are not yet available and I cannot, therefore, confirm at this stage if I will be in a position to maintain the current budget. However I will ring fence the budget for Voluntary youth work within the EA budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052302%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=253152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=253152"}},{"id":"252940","reference":"AQW 52203/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-10","answerBy":"2015-12-30","answered":"2016-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the Active Ageing Strategy will be published.","answerText":"The Active Ageing Strategy 2016-2021 was published on the OFMDFM website on 26 January 2016.","answerHtml":"The Active Ageing Strategy 2016-2021 was published on the OFMDFM website on 26 January 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052203%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252940","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252940"}},{"id":"252939","reference":"AQW 52202/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-10","answerBy":"2015-12-30","answered":"2016-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the projects that have been submitted by Departments to deliver the outstanding themes and priorities as identified in the Disability Strategy 2011- 2017; and to detail how these projects will be financed.","answerText":"We refer the member to the answer given to AQW 48792/11-16.","answerHtml":"We refer the member to the answer given to AQW 48792/11-16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052202%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252939","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252939"}},{"id":"252938","reference":"AQW 52201/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-10","answerBy":"2015-12-30","answered":"2016-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 48791/11-16, to detail when results of the public consultation on indicators for monitoring the annual progress of the Disability Strategy will be published.","answerText":"Officials are currently considering the analysis of the public consultation on possible indicators to measure progress on the implementation of the Disability Strategy. Once consideration is complete, it will be published as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"Officials are currently considering the analysis of the public consultation on possible indicators to measure progress on the implementation of the Disability Strategy. Once consideration is complete, it will be published as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052201%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252938","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252938"}},{"id":"252935","reference":"AQW 52198/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-10","answerBy":"2015-12-30","answered":"2016-01-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how he plans to increase transparency and understanding of the Individual Funding Request process for patients and their families.","answerText":"The revised guidance following the reforms to the Individual Funding Request process that I announced in my statement to the Assembly on 8 December will increase transparency and understanding of the process for patients and their families. My Department will publish the revised guidance during 2016 as soon as the development work on this has been completed.","answerHtml":"The revised guidance following the reforms to the Individual Funding Request process that I announced in my statement to the Assembly on 8 December will increase transparency and understanding of the process for patients and their families. My Department will publish the revised guidance during 2016 as soon as the development work on this has been completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052198%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252935","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252935"}},{"id":"252934","reference":"AQW 52197/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-10","answerBy":"2015-12-30","answered":"2015-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the Creative Youth Partnerships Programme; and to detail (i) whether he plans to replace this initiative; and (ii) any ongoing discussions on this matter.","answerText":"The Creative Youth Partnership Programme was aimed at increasing access to and participation in the arts by young people throughout the north of Ireland. Due to a perceived lack of legacy for schools and capacity building for teachers, in 2009/10, funding for Creative Youth Partnerships was redirected to teacher resources and CPD for teachers emphasising the importance of creativity and innovation across the whole curriculum. This approach ensures that the capacity of schools to develop young people’s creativity is increased, and so benefits a greater number of young people. I therefore have no plans to replace this initiative, and there are no ongoing discussions in relation to this.","answerHtml":"The Creative Youth Partnership Programme was aimed at increasing access to and participation in the arts by young people throughout the north of Ireland. Due to a perceived lack of legacy for schools and capacity building for teachers, in 2009/10, funding for Creative Youth Partnerships was redirected to teacher resources and CPD for teachers emphasising the importance of creativity and innovation across the whole curriculum. This approach ensures that the capacity of schools to develop young people’s creativity is increased, and so benefits a greater number of young people. I therefore have no plans to replace this initiative, and there are no ongoing discussions in relation to this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052197%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252934"}},{"id":"252858","reference":"AQW 52148/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-09","answerBy":"2015-12-29","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he is aware of any cuts that will be made to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service in 2016.","answerText":"The financial planning process within my department for 2016/17 is still ongoing and therefore no decisions have yet been taken on the budget position for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.\n\nI will not preside over unsafe services and public and firefighter safety remain a priority.","answerHtml":"The financial planning process within my department for 2016/17 is still ongoing and therefore no decisions have yet been taken on the budget position for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
I will not preside over unsafe services and public and firefighter safety remain a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052148%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252858"}},{"id":"252857","reference":"AQW 52147/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-09","answerBy":"2015-12-29","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what discussions he has had with the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service regarding (i) future budgetary cuts; and (ii) the subsequent downgrading of Fire Service stations.","answerText":"The financial planning process within my department for 2016/17 is ongoing and decisions have not yet been taken on the budget position for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. I have met with the Chair and Interim Chief Fire Officer and separately with FBU representatives.\n\nI will not preside over unsafe services and the safety of both the public and firefighter remain a priority.","answerHtml":"The financial planning process within my department for 2016/17 is ongoing and decisions have not yet been taken on the budget position for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service. I have met with the Chair and Interim Chief Fire Officer and separately with FBU representatives.
I will not preside over unsafe services and the safety of both the public and firefighter remain a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052147%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252857"}},{"id":"252856","reference":"AQW 52146/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-09","answerBy":"2015-12-29","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the changes that will be implemented as a result of the proposed downgrading of a number of Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service stations; and (ii) the criteria for downgrading selected stations.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) identified in its most recent risk assessment that its existing wholetime firefighter resource should be rebalanced appropriately and proportionately across Northern Ireland to address the level of risk. To facilitate this NIFRS propose changes to crewing models at 11 fire stations. A public consultation on the proposals was launched on 14 December 2015 and closed on 7 March 2016. NIFRS is currently considering consultation responses.\n\nThe continued safety of both the Public and firefighters remains a priority.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) identified in its most recent risk assessment that its existing wholetime firefighter resource should be rebalanced appropriately and proportionately across Northern Ireland to address the level of risk. To facilitate this NIFRS propose changes to crewing models at 11 fire stations. A public consultation on the proposals was launched on 14 December 2015 and closed on 7 March 2016. NIFRS is currently considering consultation responses.
The continued safety of both the Public and firefighters remains a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052146%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252856","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252856"}},{"id":"252853","reference":"AQW 52145/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-09","answerBy":"2015-12-29","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) the current pressures facing the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue service following cuts to their budget in 2015; and (ii) their current capacity to respond to the service need.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) developed savings plans to meet a 5.5% reduction to its 2015/16 budget.\n\nThe NIFRS savings proposals were prioritised based on those that would minimise the impact on service delivery. The safety of the public and of firefighters remains a priority.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) developed savings plans to meet a 5.5% reduction to its 2015/16 budget.
The NIFRS savings proposals were prioritised based on those that would minimise the impact on service delivery. The safety of the public and of firefighters remains a priority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052145%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252853","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252853"}},{"id":"252852","reference":"AQW 52144/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-09","answerBy":"2015-12-29","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is designated as a frontline service by his Department; and to detail what protection is given to them.","answerText":"I consider NIFRS to fall under the description of a “frontline service.” The Executive decided to provide protection from reductions for frontline Health and Social Care elements of the DHSSPS budget.","answerHtml":"I consider NIFRS to fall under the description of a “frontline service.” The Executive decided to provide protection from reductions for frontline Health and Social Care elements of the DHSSPS budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052144%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252852","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252852"}},{"id":"252707","reference":"AQW 52070/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-08","answerBy":"2015-12-23","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how he will address the shortage of GPs locally; and whether this will include increasing the number of GPs within the medical workforce.","answerText":"A Working Group has been established within the Department to consider how best to address the challenges facing GP-led primary care services. In addition, I have recently announced 20 additional GP training places per year from August 2016 and a new five year initiative which will see additional investment in pharmacists to work alongside GPs. Not only will this deliver a better service for patients, ensuring people obtain the best possible health outcomes from their medicines, but it will also boost capacity in primary care.","answerHtml":"A Working Group has been established within the Department to consider how best to address the challenges facing GP-led primary care services. In addition, I have recently announced 20 additional GP training places per year from August 2016 and a new five year initiative which will see additional investment in pharmacists to work alongside GPs. Not only will this deliver a better service for patients, ensuring people obtain the best possible health outcomes from their medicines, but it will also boost capacity in primary care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052070%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252707"}},{"id":"252706","reference":"AQW 52069/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-08","answerBy":"2015-12-23","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what barriers exist to increasing the number of GPs working locally.","answerText":"Any increase in GP training places is subject to the necessary additional funding being available. I am pleased to confirm that I have increased the annual GP training programme in Northern Ireland in 2016/17 by making a further 20 training places available from August 2016.","answerHtml":"Any increase in GP training places is subject to the necessary additional funding being available. I am pleased to confirm that I have increased the annual GP training programme in Northern Ireland in 2016/17 by making a further 20 training places available from August 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052069%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252706","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252706"}},{"id":"252704","reference":"AQW 52068/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-08","answerBy":"2015-12-23","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what analysis has been carried out by his Department to predict accurately the future requirements for the services of GPs locally.","answerText":"A Workforce Review of General Practitioners has been carried out which suggests a number of recommendations, one of which is increased training numbers of GPs over a four year period. I am pleased to confirm that I have increased the annual GP training programme in Northern Ireland in 2016/17 by making a further 20 training places available fromAugust 2016. However, the number of GPs engaged across HSC is only one of a range of considerations in addressing the pressures on primary care services. For example, it will be important to develop new ways of working to ensure flexibility for the existing GP workforce and to consider the skills mix working in primary care to ensure that GP time is focused optimally on patient care.","answerHtml":"A Workforce Review of General Practitioners has been carried out which suggests a number of recommendations, one of which is increased training numbers of GPs over a four year period. I am pleased to confirm that I have increased the annual GP training programme in Northern Ireland in 2016/17 by making a further 20 training places available fromAugust 2016. However, the number of GPs engaged across HSC is only one of a range of considerations in addressing the pressures on primary care services. For example, it will be important to develop new ways of working to ensure flexibility for the existing GP workforce and to consider the skills mix working in primary care to ensure that GP time is focused optimally on patient care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052068%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252704","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252704"}},{"id":"252697","reference":"AQW 52067/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-08","answerBy":"2015-12-23","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) to detail how the number of local GP training places available annually compares to (a) England; (b) Scotland; and (c) Wales; and (ii) whether he plans to bring Northern Ireland into parity with other regions of the United Kingdom.","answerText":"The number of GP training places available annually across the United Kingdom is detailed below:\n\nEngland – 3235 places: one per 16,383 of the population\n\nWales – 136 places: one per 22,500 of the population\n\nScotland – 317 places: one per 16,719 of the population\n\nNorthern Ireland – 65 places: one per 27,846 of the population.\n\nI have increased the number of available GP training places annually in Northern Ireland to 85, to commence in August 2016. This increases the ration of training places to one per 21,294 of the population.","answerHtml":"The number of GP training places available annually across the United Kingdom is detailed below:
England – 3235 places: one per 16,383 of the population
Wales – 136 places: one per 22,500 of the population
Scotland – 317 places: one per 16,719 of the population
Northern Ireland – 65 places: one per 27,846 of the population.
I have increased the number of available GP training places annually in Northern Ireland to 85, to commence in August 2016. This increases the ration of training places to one per 21,294 of the population.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052067%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252697","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252697"}},{"id":"252555","reference":"AQW 52011/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-07","answerBy":"2015-12-22","answered":"2016-03-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what research was carried out by his Department regarding (i) domestic violence and abuse against older people, particularly older women, in respect of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy 2013-2020; and (ii) the barriers to reporting domestic abuse against those receiving care in a care home setting, or within their own home.","answerText":"My Department utilised a wide range of existing resources and stakeholder advice to inform development of the ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy.","answerHtml":"My Department utilised a wide range of existing resources and stakeholder advice to inform development of the ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052011%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252555","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252555"}},{"id":"252553","reference":"AQW 52009/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-07","answerBy":"2015-12-22","answered":"2016-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the total funding invested in; and (ii) the observed outcomes of the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2008; and (iii) the resources that have been committed to the implementation of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2013-2020.","answerText":"My Department funds a wide range of programmes and services that address sexual violence and abuse both directly and indirectly. It is, therefore, not possible to calculate the overall amount invested in implementing the ‘Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse’ Strategy.\n\nOutcomes achieved during the life of the ‘Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse’ Strategy include: the opening of The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Antrim Hospital; the expansion of the 24Hr Domestic Violence Helpline to include sexual violence; the WRONG campaign - a major advertising campaign to raise awareness of sexual violence and abuse; an anti-rape campaign run across all higher and further education institutions across Northern Ireland; and publication of a Regional Directory of Services for professionals and victims of sexual violence in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe proposed ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy has yet to be published. There is currently no funding stream dedicated to implementation of priorities within the Strategy.","answerHtml":"My Department funds a wide range of programmes and services that address sexual violence and abuse both directly and indirectly. It is, therefore, not possible to calculate the overall amount invested in implementing the ‘Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse’ Strategy.
Outcomes achieved during the life of the ‘Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse’ Strategy include: the opening of The Rowan Sexual Assault Referral Centre at Antrim Hospital; the expansion of the 24Hr Domestic Violence Helpline to include sexual violence; the WRONG campaign - a major advertising campaign to raise awareness of sexual violence and abuse; an anti-rape campaign run across all higher and further education institutions across Northern Ireland; and publication of a Regional Directory of Services for professionals and victims of sexual violence in Northern Ireland.
The proposed ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy has yet to be published. There is currently no funding stream dedicated to implementation of priorities within the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052009%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252553","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252553"}},{"id":"252551","reference":"AQW 52007/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-07","answerBy":"2015-12-22","answered":"2015-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the review of all residential and outdoor education centres funded by his Department; including when this review will be published.","answerText":"The review of residential and outdoor education centres is being led by the Education Authority as one of the actions in the Regional Youth Development Plan 2015-16. The draft report will be presented for consideration and agreement by March 2016 to the Education Authority prior to submission to the Department.","answerHtml":"The review of residential and outdoor education centres is being led by the Education Authority as one of the actions in the Regional Youth Development Plan 2015-16. The draft report will be presented for consideration and agreement by March 2016 to the Education Authority prior to submission to the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2052007%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252551","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252551"}},{"id":"252507","reference":"AQW 51992/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-07","answerBy":"2015-12-22","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the total funding invested in; and (ii) the observed outcomes of, the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2008; and to outline the resources which have been committed to the implementation of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy 2013-2020.","answerText":"It is not possible to detail the costs invested to deliver the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy 2008 as a whole, given the wide ranging cross-sectoral nature of the work and service provision that has been, and continues to be, delivered through the associated action plans.\n\nA key outcome of this strategy has been the establishment of ‘The Rowan,’ the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, in May 2013. Additionally there has been a public campaign to generate awareness of sexual violence and abuse, and an anti-rape campaign in universities and colleges. A handbook of information, help and support has also been published for adult victims of rape and sexual assault. In September 2013 the domestic violence helpline expanded to respond to the needs of victims of sexual violence and abuse.\n\nThe Public Protection Arrangements, which have been introduced in Northern Ireland to enhance the management of risk posed by certain sexual and violent offenders, will be strengthened further by added protections emerging from the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2015, such as, the arrangements for Child Protection Disclosure and Violent Offenders Protection Orders.\n\nConsideration continues to be given as to how the aims of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy may be progressed in the current difficult financial environment. The publication of the final Strategy will be subject to clearance by the Minister of Health and the Executive. In the meantime I have instructed officials within my Department to take forward the implementation of the Justice priorities within the Strategy.","answerHtml":"It is not possible to detail the costs invested to deliver the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy 2008 as a whole, given the wide ranging cross-sectoral nature of the work and service provision that has been, and continues to be, delivered through the associated action plans.
A key outcome of this strategy has been the establishment of ‘The Rowan,’ the Sexual Assault Referral Centre, in May 2013. Additionally there has been a public campaign to generate awareness of sexual violence and abuse, and an anti-rape campaign in universities and colleges. A handbook of information, help and support has also been published for adult victims of rape and sexual assault. In September 2013 the domestic violence helpline expanded to respond to the needs of victims of sexual violence and abuse.
The Public Protection Arrangements, which have been introduced in Northern Ireland to enhance the management of risk posed by certain sexual and violent offenders, will be strengthened further by added protections emerging from the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2015, such as, the arrangements for Child Protection Disclosure and Violent Offenders Protection Orders.
Consideration continues to be given as to how the aims of the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse strategy may be progressed in the current difficult financial environment. The publication of the final Strategy will be subject to clearance by the Minister of Health and the Executive. In the meantime I have instructed officials within my Department to take forward the implementation of the Justice priorities within the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051992%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252507","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252507"}},{"id":"252504","reference":"AQW 51991/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-07","answerBy":"2015-12-22","answered":"2016-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for a breakdown of investment by his Department in East Londonderry in each year since 2011; and how he is selling the attributes of areas other than Belfast and Londonderry to encourage inward investment.","answerText":"The following table details the total planned investment by companies through offers of assistance from Invest NI in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency Area since 2011-12:\n\nYear\tTotal Planned Investment (£m)\n2011-12\t4.67\n2012-13\t23.13\n2013-14\t14.18\n2014-15\t6.94\nTotal\t48.93\n\nNOTE: Total may not add due to rounding.\n\nIn order to attract Foreign Direct Investment, Invest NI focusses on selling the attributes of all of Northern Ireland. To focus on specific areas would risk diluting the message in what is a very competitive market. Moreover any attempt to direct investment to specific areas would jeopardise the chances of winning the investment in the first place.\n\nThe attributes on which our proposition is based are a skilled workforce, competitive operating costs and advanced infrastructure in a strategic location. In order to sell these attributes, Invest NI engages in a variety of in-market promotional activity, including face-to-face meetings with potential investors, Ministerial visit programmes to existing and potential investors and speaking opportunities to senior business executives and business influencers. The aim of this activity is to encourage companies to make fact-finding visits into Northern Ireland.\n\nInvest NI also partners with various stakeholders, such as universities and colleges, Tourism Ireland and councils, on complementary activity to promote the attractiveness of Northern Ireland to investors and encourage investment visits.\n\nInvest NI is also helping councils in the development of their Community Plans and to identify their unique selling points to help attract investment. Once complete Invest NI will use these propositions to promote Northern Ireland at a sub-regional level when relevant to a particular investment project.\n\nIt is also important to consider other economic levers that can be used to enhance the attractiveness of an area. One such example is the establishment of an Enterprise Zone in Coleraine, which would increase the marketing proposition of the area. While the Enterprise Zone designation would primarily favour capital-intensive projects with modest job numbers, there would also be significant benefits in securing an anchor tenant, thereby creating a supply chain or enabler for other companies to locate nearby. Invest NI will monitor the progress of the Enterprise Zone designation and will factor the benefits that it brings into the overall business proposition.","answerHtml":"The following table details the total planned investment by companies through offers of assistance from Invest NI in the East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency Area since 2011-12:
| Year | Total Planned Investment (£m) |
| 2011-12 | 4.67 |
| 2012-13 | 23.13 |
| 2013-14 | 14.18 |
| 2014-15 | 6.94 |
| Total | 48.93 |
NOTE: Total may not add due to rounding.
In order to attract Foreign Direct Investment, Invest NI focusses on selling the attributes of all of Northern Ireland. To focus on specific areas would risk diluting the message in what is a very competitive market. Moreover any attempt to direct investment to specific areas would jeopardise the chances of winning the investment in the first place.
The attributes on which our proposition is based are a skilled workforce, competitive operating costs and advanced infrastructure in a strategic location. In order to sell these attributes, Invest NI engages in a variety of in-market promotional activity, including face-to-face meetings with potential investors, Ministerial visit programmes to existing and potential investors and speaking opportunities to senior business executives and business influencers. The aim of this activity is to encourage companies to make fact-finding visits into Northern Ireland.
Invest NI also partners with various stakeholders, such as universities and colleges, Tourism Ireland and councils, on complementary activity to promote the attractiveness of Northern Ireland to investors and encourage investment visits.
Invest NI is also helping councils in the development of their Community Plans and to identify their unique selling points to help attract investment. Once complete Invest NI will use these propositions to promote Northern Ireland at a sub-regional level when relevant to a particular investment project.
It is also important to consider other economic levers that can be used to enhance the attractiveness of an area. One such example is the establishment of an Enterprise Zone in Coleraine, which would increase the marketing proposition of the area. While the Enterprise Zone designation would primarily favour capital-intensive projects with modest job numbers, there would also be significant benefits in securing an anchor tenant, thereby creating a supply chain or enabler for other companies to locate nearby. Invest NI will monitor the progress of the Enterprise Zone designation and will factor the benefits that it brings into the overall business proposition.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051991%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252504"}},{"id":"252366","reference":"AQW 51933/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-04","answerBy":"2015-12-21","answered":"2015-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of murder convictions, which were related to domestic violence, in each year since 2011; and how he is working with the (i) PSNI; and (ii) Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety address this issue.","answerText":"My Department was aware that in the past information could not be obtained regarding convictions where a case related to domestic violence and abuse. Therefore in April 2015 a mechanism was established which will allow such data to be produced. Information covering the period April 2015 – March 2016 should be available in mid-2016, but it is not possible to detail the number of murder convictions related to domestic violence and abuse prior to April 2015.\n\nIn taking forward the justice elements of the draft Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy I have instructed Officials to develop an appropriate model to enable the identification of lessons learned and to improve the response to cases of domestic homicide in Northern Ireland. My officials will continue to liaise with PSNI and DHSSPS officials during this project.","answerHtml":"My Department was aware that in the past information could not be obtained regarding convictions where a case related to domestic violence and abuse. Therefore in April 2015 a mechanism was established which will allow such data to be produced. Information covering the period April 2015 – March 2016 should be available in mid-2016, but it is not possible to detail the number of murder convictions related to domestic violence and abuse prior to April 2015.
In taking forward the justice elements of the draft Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy I have instructed Officials to develop an appropriate model to enable the identification of lessons learned and to improve the response to cases of domestic homicide in Northern Ireland. My officials will continue to liaise with PSNI and DHSSPS officials during this project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051933%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252366"}},{"id":"252363","reference":"AQW 51930/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-04","answerBy":"2015-12-21","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) for his assessment of domestic violence victims that are over 60 years of age; and (ii) to detail how his Department is working to raise awareness of age trends in relation to domestic violence.","answerText":"My Department does not gather statistics on the age profile of victims of domestic violence. PSNI statistics for 2014/15 indicate that 5% of domestic abuse crime victims were over 60. It is therefore clear that domestic violence and abuse can occur into older age.\n\nOnce the proposed Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy is published, the groups within the newly adopted governance structures will consider priorities going forward, including raising awareness of domestic violence in relation to all victims.","answerHtml":"My Department does not gather statistics on the age profile of victims of domestic violence. PSNI statistics for 2014/15 indicate that 5% of domestic abuse crime victims were over 60. It is therefore clear that domestic violence and abuse can occur into older age.
Once the proposed Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy is published, the groups within the newly adopted governance structures will consider priorities going forward, including raising awareness of domestic violence in relation to all victims.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051930%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252363","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252363"}},{"id":"252362","reference":"AQW 51929/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-04","answerBy":"2015-12-21","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) for his assessment of domestic violence related suicides; and (ii) whether this has been considered in the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy for 2013-2020","answerText":"My Department does not hold statistical information on domestic violence related suicide in Northern Ireland. However, there is evidence that domestic violence can be a risk factor for suicidal behaviour.\n\nThe proposed ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy recognises that domestic violence is a known risk factor and highlights the ‘Protect Life’ strategy which sets out the NI Executive strategic approach to suicide prevention.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold statistical information on domestic violence related suicide in Northern Ireland. However, there is evidence that domestic violence can be a risk factor for suicidal behaviour.
The proposed ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy recognises that domestic violence is a known risk factor and highlights the ‘Protect Life’ strategy which sets out the NI Executive strategic approach to suicide prevention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051929%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252362","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252362"}},{"id":"252360","reference":"AQW 51927/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-04","answerBy":"2015-12-21","answered":"2015-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the administrative costs of the youth service during 2014-2015 broken down by (a) the Education and Library Boards; and (b) the Youth Council for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The 2014-15 administrative costs of the youth service for (a) the Education and Library Boards and (b) the Youth Council for Northern Ireland are listed in the table below:\n\nYouth Administrative Costs\nOrganisation\t£’000\nEducation and Library Boards 1\t2,909\nYouth Council for Northern Ireland (YCNI)\t336\nTotal\t3,245\n\n1.The 2014-15 Resource Accounts for the ELBs are yet to be finalised and as such may be subject to change.\n\nAdministrative costs have been defined, in accordance with Treasury’s Consolidated Budgeting Guidance, as, ‘expenditure on running Central Government entities but excluding their frontline activities’. Therefore the above figures exclude any costs directly attributable to delivering frontline services.\n\nYCNI have stated that of the £682k staffing costs associated with the Council £188k falls under the Treasury definition of Administration.","answerHtml":"The 2014-15 administrative costs of the youth service for (a) the Education and Library Boards and (b) the Youth Council for Northern Ireland are listed in the table below:
| Youth Administrative Costs | |
| Organisation | £’000 |
| Education and Library Boards 1 | 2,909 |
| Youth Council for Northern Ireland (YCNI) | 336 |
| Total | 3,245 |
1.The 2014-15 Resource Accounts for the ELBs are yet to be finalised and as such may be subject to change.
Administrative costs have been defined, in accordance with Treasury’s Consolidated Budgeting Guidance, as, ‘expenditure on running Central Government entities but excluding their frontline activities’. Therefore the above figures exclude any costs directly attributable to delivering frontline services.
YCNI have stated that of the £682k staffing costs associated with the Council £188k falls under the Treasury definition of Administration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051927%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252360"}},{"id":"252356","reference":"AQW 51923/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-04","answerBy":"2015-12-21","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) when the last meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic Violence took place; (ii) attendance at the meeting; and (iii) the whether any meetings are scheduled to take place in the future.","answerText":"The Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) last met on 14 November 2012.\n\nThis meeting was attended by the following Ministers:\n\nMinister Poots, Department of Health, Social Services & Public Safety (Chair);\n\nMinister Ford, Department of Justice; and\n\nJunior Minister McCann, Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister.\n\nSenior officials from the Department of Education, Department for Employment and Learning, Department of Finance and Personnel and Department for Social Development were also in attendance.\n\nIMG approval will be required to progress the new ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy to the Executive. I am presently giving consideration to whether this requires a full IMG meeting.\n\nThe normal expectation would be that IMG meets a few months after RSG meets. In practice, given the level of representation, an IMG meeting will only be convened where there is sufficient business arising from the RSG meetings to justify Ministerial attendance and consideration. RSG has recently been focusing on the development of the new Strategy; this has not necessitated the convening a full IMG meeting. Where IMG members have required briefing, but a full meeting was not justified, briefing has been provided via correspondence.","answerHtml":"The Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) last met on 14 November 2012.
This meeting was attended by the following Ministers:
Minister Poots, Department of Health, Social Services & Public Safety (Chair);
Minister Ford, Department of Justice; and
Junior Minister McCann, Office of First Minister and Deputy First Minister.
Senior officials from the Department of Education, Department for Employment and Learning, Department of Finance and Personnel and Department for Social Development were also in attendance.
IMG approval will be required to progress the new ‘Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse in Northern Ireland’ Strategy to the Executive. I am presently giving consideration to whether this requires a full IMG meeting.
The normal expectation would be that IMG meets a few months after RSG meets. In practice, given the level of representation, an IMG meeting will only be convened where there is sufficient business arising from the RSG meetings to justify Ministerial attendance and consideration. RSG has recently been focusing on the development of the new Strategy; this has not necessitated the convening a full IMG meeting. Where IMG members have required briefing, but a full meeting was not justified, briefing has been provided via correspondence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051923%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252356"}},{"id":"252138","reference":"AQW 51866/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-03","answerBy":"2015-12-18","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the process for ensuring that the safety of school children is maintained when a designated school crossing patrol person takes (i) a planned; and (ii) an unplanned leave of absence.","answerText":"Overall responsibility for road safety lies with the Department of the Environment. However, the Education Authority (EA) has a role to play and can take such measures as they may set out in a scheme, approved by my Department with a view to assisting in the prevention of accidents involving school children. This enables the EA to hire and deploy school crossing patrols where particular traffic hazards have been identified.\n\nAs the EA have no statutory responsibility for such provision, their delivery of a School Crossing Patrol service is on a discretionary basis and the primary responsibility for ensuring children get safely to and from school rests with parents.\n\nEvery effort is taken to ensure that crossing patrols are maintained with as little disruption as possible. Where there is a period of absence, EA will endeavour to ensure alternative cover is provided on a temporary basis. However, it may not be possible to provide alternative cover in all cases of absence, particularly where it is unplanned.\n\nSome schools may have a designated member of staff who has received the required training to operate legally as a substitute in this role and they can be used as a substitute to cover periods of absence.\n\nOn occasions where cover cannot be provided, School principals are requested to notify parents that the School Crossing Patrol location will not be manned and that the safety of pupils is a matter of parental responsibility.","answerHtml":"Overall responsibility for road safety lies with the Department of the Environment. However, the Education Authority (EA) has a role to play and can take such measures as they may set out in a scheme, approved by my Department with a view to assisting in the prevention of accidents involving school children. This enables the EA to hire and deploy school crossing patrols where particular traffic hazards have been identified.
As the EA have no statutory responsibility for such provision, their delivery of a School Crossing Patrol service is on a discretionary basis and the primary responsibility for ensuring children get safely to and from school rests with parents.
Every effort is taken to ensure that crossing patrols are maintained with as little disruption as possible. Where there is a period of absence, EA will endeavour to ensure alternative cover is provided on a temporary basis. However, it may not be possible to provide alternative cover in all cases of absence, particularly where it is unplanned.
Some schools may have a designated member of staff who has received the required training to operate legally as a substitute in this role and they can be used as a substitute to cover periods of absence.
On occasions where cover cannot be provided, School principals are requested to notify parents that the School Crossing Patrol location will not be manned and that the safety of pupils is a matter of parental responsibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051866%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252138","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252138"}},{"id":"252137","reference":"AQW 51865/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-03","answerBy":"2015-12-18","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail why the Education Authority does not undertake the process or cover the associated expenses of Access NI checks for school crossing patrols.","answerText":"The Education Authority has confirmed that it undertakes pre-employment vetting for regulated positions working in or providing a service for schools which includes school crossing patrol attendants.\n\nThe Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything and it is for this reason that it has not been possible to meet the cost of vetting checks for paid employees working in/for schools.","answerHtml":"The Education Authority has confirmed that it undertakes pre-employment vetting for regulated positions working in or providing a service for schools which includes school crossing patrol attendants.
The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything and it is for this reason that it has not been possible to meet the cost of vetting checks for paid employees working in/for schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051865%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252137","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252137"}},{"id":"252135","reference":"AQW 51864/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-03","answerBy":"2015-12-18","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) why 61 per cent of carers assessments offered in the last quarter were declined; (ii) the proportion of assessments that were declined by carers who are over 60 years of age; and to detail (iii) how he is addressing this trend.","answerText":"(i) Quarterly Carers’ Statistics for Northern Ireland presents figures regionally and by Health and Social Care Trust in respect of carers assessments and reassessments that are offered, accepted / completed and declined. Table 5 of the Carers publication sets out the reasons for declining a carer's assessment https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/publications/quarterly-carers-statistics-northern-ireland-july-september-2015.\n\n(ii) My Department does not collect the reason for declining by age group of the carer, only by Programme of Care (POC) of the cared for person.\n\n(iii) With a view to driving improvements in this area an annual target has been included in the Commissioning Plan Direction requiring a 10% increase in the number of carers assessments offered, as compared to the previous year. It is not considered appropriate to set a target for “uptake” as carers have a right to decline assessment if they do not wish to have one completed. Notably, in the latest carers publication the reason given most frequently for declining an offer of a carers assessment was that the carer feels that they do not need any support or additional support. a","answerHtml":"(i) Quarterly Carers’ Statistics for Northern Ireland presents figures regionally and by Health and Social Care Trust in respect of carers assessments and reassessments that are offered, accepted / completed and declined. Table 5 of the Carers publication sets out the reasons for declining a carer's assessment https://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/publications/quarterly-carers-statistics-northern-ireland-july-september-2015.
(ii) My Department does not collect the reason for declining by age group of the carer, only by Programme of Care (POC) of the cared for person.
(iii) With a view to driving improvements in this area an annual target has been included in the Commissioning Plan Direction requiring a 10% increase in the number of carers assessments offered, as compared to the previous year. It is not considered appropriate to set a target for “uptake” as carers have a right to decline assessment if they do not wish to have one completed. Notably, in the latest carers publication the reason given most frequently for declining an offer of a carers assessment was that the carer feels that they do not need any support or additional support. a
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051864%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252135","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252135"}},{"id":"252133","reference":"AQW 51863/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-03","answerBy":"2015-12-18","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, following the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, to detail what discussions he has had regarding the future of funding through bursaries for nursing students.","answerText":"I have had no formal discussions regarding the future of funding, through bursaries, for nursing students.","answerHtml":"I have had no formal discussions regarding the future of funding, through bursaries, for nursing students.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051863%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252133","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252133"}},{"id":"252131","reference":"AQW 51862/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-03","answerBy":"2015-12-18","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) whether he intends to make a decision regarding the future of funding through bursaries for nursing students; and (ii) to give a timescale for this decision.","answerText":"I have no plans to change the financial support which my Department provides to undergraduate nursing students through bursaries.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to change the financial support which my Department provides to undergraduate nursing students through bursaries.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051862%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252131","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252131"}},{"id":"252040","reference":"AQW 51813/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-02","answerBy":"2015-12-17","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the role and functions of the Learning Disability Service Framework since 2012.","answerText":"The Department has developed a suite of Service Frameworks which set out explicit standards for health and social care that are evidence based and measureable. Service Frameworks are an integral part of the Department’s Quality 2020 strategy and the standards aim to ensure that services are safe, effective and person centred.\n\nThe Service Framework for the Learning Disability Service was launched in September 2012. Its aim is to improve the health and wellbeing of people with a learning disability, their carers and families, by promoting social inclusion, reducing inequalities in health and social wellbeing and improving the quality of care. The Framework champions the principle that people with a learning disability should access the same HSC services as other people, but recognises that there are occasions when special expertise or support is required.\n\nThe Department continues to monitor the Service Framework’s progress and works closely with the project lead to ensure the standards are up to date and relevant.","answerHtml":"The Department has developed a suite of Service Frameworks which set out explicit standards for health and social care that are evidence based and measureable. Service Frameworks are an integral part of the Department’s Quality 2020 strategy and the standards aim to ensure that services are safe, effective and person centred.
The Service Framework for the Learning Disability Service was launched in September 2012. Its aim is to improve the health and wellbeing of people with a learning disability, their carers and families, by promoting social inclusion, reducing inequalities in health and social wellbeing and improving the quality of care. The Framework champions the principle that people with a learning disability should access the same HSC services as other people, but recognises that there are occasions when special expertise or support is required.
The Department continues to monitor the Service Framework’s progress and works closely with the project lead to ensure the standards are up to date and relevant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051813%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252040","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252040"}},{"id":"252038","reference":"AQW 51812/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-02","answerBy":"2015-12-17","answered":"2016-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the (i) number of times the inter-departmental Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability has met since 2012; and (ii) attendance at those meetings.","answerText":"The Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability has met 4 times since 2012 on: 21 November 2013; 1 May 2014; 20 November 2014; and 13 May 2015.\n\nAttendance at each meeting is attached at Annex A.\n\nAnnex A\n\nAttendance at Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability meetings since 2012 is as follows (excludes officials supporting Ministers):\n\n21 November 2013\n\nMinisters\tOfficials\nEdwin Poots (chair), DHSSPS\nJohn O’Dowd, DE\nStephen Farry, DEL\nDanny Kennedy, DRD\nNelson McCausland, DSD\nJonathan Bell, OFMDFM\nJennifer McCann, OFMDFM\tCynthia Smith (on behalf of Minister Ní Chuilín), DCAL\nCyril Anderson (on behalf of Minister Foster), DETI\nGareth Johnston (on behalf of Minister Ford), DOJ\n\n1 May 2014\n\nMinisters\tOfficials\nEdwin Poots (chair), DHSSPS\nStephen Farry, DEL\nJohn O’Dowd, DE\nDanny Kennedy, DRD\nJennifer McCann, OFMDFM\tCynthia Smith (on behalf of Minister Ní Chuilín), DCAL\nJo Kane (on behalf of Minister Foster), DETI\nGareth Johnston (on behalf of Minister Ford), DOJ\nStephen Martin (on behalf of Minister McCausland), DSD\n\n20 November 2014\n\nMinisters\tOfficials\nJim Wells (chair) DHSSPS\nDavid Ford DOJ\nJonathan Bell, OFMDM\tBarney McGahan (on behalf of Minister Ní Chuilín), DCAL\nNicola Monson (on behalf of Minister Foster), DETI\nFinbar Cummins (on behalf of Minister McCausland), DSD\nJane Floyd (on behalf of Minister O’Dowd)\nColin Jack (on behalf of Minister Farry)\nJohn McGrath (on behalf of Minister Kennedy)\n\n13 May 2015\n\nMinistersOfficials\n\nSimon Hamilton (Chair), DHSSPS\nJohn O’Dowd, DE\nMinister Farry, DEL\nMinister Storey, DSD\nDavid Ford, DOJ\nJennifer McCann, OFMDFM\tTom Reid, DRD (on behalf of Minister Kennedy)\nNicola Monson, DETI on behalf of\nMinister Bell);\nCynthia Smyth, DCAL (on behalf of Minister Ni Chuilín);","answerHtml":"The Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability has met 4 times since 2012 on: 21 November 2013; 1 May 2014; 20 November 2014; and 13 May 2015.
Attendance at each meeting is attached at Annex A.
Annex A
Attendance at Inter-Departmental Ministerial Group on Mental Health and Learning Disability meetings since 2012 is as follows (excludes officials supporting Ministers):
21 November 2013
| Ministers | Officials |
| Edwin Poots (chair), DHSSPS John O’Dowd, DE Stephen Farry, DEL Danny Kennedy, DRD Nelson McCausland, DSD Jonathan Bell, OFMDFM Jennifer McCann, OFMDFM | Cynthia Smith (on behalf of Minister Ní Chuilín), DCAL Cyril Anderson (on behalf of Minister Foster), DETI Gareth Johnston (on behalf of Minister Ford), DOJ |
1 May 2014
| Ministers | Officials |
| Edwin Poots (chair), DHSSPS Stephen Farry, DEL John O’Dowd, DE Danny Kennedy, DRD Jennifer McCann, OFMDFM | Cynthia Smith (on behalf of Minister Ní Chuilín), DCAL Jo Kane (on behalf of Minister Foster), DETI Gareth Johnston (on behalf of Minister Ford), DOJ Stephen Martin (on behalf of Minister McCausland), DSD |
20 November 2014
| Ministers | Officials |
| Jim Wells (chair) DHSSPS David Ford DOJ Jonathan Bell, OFMDM | Barney McGahan (on behalf of Minister Ní Chuilín), DCAL Nicola Monson (on behalf of Minister Foster), DETI Finbar Cummins (on behalf of Minister McCausland), DSD Jane Floyd (on behalf of Minister O’Dowd) Colin Jack (on behalf of Minister Farry) John McGrath (on behalf of Minister Kennedy) |
13 May 2015
MinistersOfficials
| Simon Hamilton (Chair), DHSSPS John O’Dowd, DE Minister Farry, DEL Minister Storey, DSD David Ford, DOJ Jennifer McCann, OFMDFM | Tom Reid, DRD (on behalf of Minister Kennedy) Nicola Monson, DETI on behalf of Minister Bell); Cynthia Smyth, DCAL (on behalf of Minister Ni Chuilín); |
Since the regional consultation on the proposed Model for Day Opportunities for People with Learning Disabilities was carried out in 2013/2014, work is progressing to implement the Model across all HSC Trust areas to ensure the range and quality of post-19 opportunities for those with a learning disability across NI is more consistent. It is important to note that the Day Opportunities programme of change could take up to five years to complete and its success is highly dependent on the cooperation of relevant government departments and their agencies, the new local government Councils and voluntary and community organisations. A summary of progress is as follows:-
a post Consultation Report was developed in 2014;
a Regional Day Opportunities Inter-departmental (and cross-sectoral) Implementation Group was established in October 2014;
Local Implementation Groups were established in the five Health and Social Care Trust localities in 2015 and these Groups have measured themselves against the Model Phase 1;
a Carers’ Regional Sub Group was established in September 2015;
engagement events have been undertaken with staff, users, carers and providers;
person-centred reviews for service users in day care continue to identify those who would benefit from access to day opportunities;
a scoping exercise of current daycare/day opportunities and profile of current service users has been completed;
a review is currently being carried out on building-based services to identify requirements for the future;
the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has recently awarded a contract to fund the ‘Rural Support’ post for the development of Social Farming;
a Regional Integrated Passenger Transport Group was set up and led by the Department for Regional Development to look at efficient and sustainable passenger transport arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051810%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252036","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252036"}},{"id":"252035","reference":"AQW 51809/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-02","answerBy":"2015-12-17","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) how his Department is supporting carers that are over 60 years of age; and (ii) what information is available for older carers regarding the future care of their loved ones.","answerText":"(i) In recognising the need to support all carers in their caring role, a carers’ strategy, Caring for Carers, was published in January 2006. The strategy is inter-departmental and inter-agency, dealing with health and personal social services, employment, training, education, availability of information and support services. Since the publication of the strategy, Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have been working to address the arising recommendations, thereby raising the standard of services for carers. Further, as I have previously advised, HSC Trusts have a statutory duty under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (NI) 2002 to make information regarding a carer’s right to an assessment widely available and to inform individuals of all ages directly of that right, where it appears to the Trust that an individual is carrying out a caring role. Following the completion of a carers assessment, HSC Trusts are required to meet all eligible need identified.\n\n(ii) My Department is committed to carers being acknowledged and recognised as “equal partners in care”. The Carers Strategy makes it very clear that HSC Trusts must ensure that carers are fully informed and involved in the planning of future care of the cared for person so that assumptions are not made about their ability or willingness to care.","answerHtml":"(i) In recognising the need to support all carers in their caring role, a carers’ strategy, Caring for Carers, was published in January 2006. The strategy is inter-departmental and inter-agency, dealing with health and personal social services, employment, training, education, availability of information and support services. Since the publication of the strategy, Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have been working to address the arising recommendations, thereby raising the standard of services for carers. Further, as I have previously advised, HSC Trusts have a statutory duty under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (NI) 2002 to make information regarding a carer’s right to an assessment widely available and to inform individuals of all ages directly of that right, where it appears to the Trust that an individual is carrying out a caring role. Following the completion of a carers assessment, HSC Trusts are required to meet all eligible need identified.
(ii) My Department is committed to carers being acknowledged and recognised as “equal partners in care”. The Carers Strategy makes it very clear that HSC Trusts must ensure that carers are fully informed and involved in the planning of future care of the cared for person so that assumptions are not made about their ability or willingness to care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051809%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=252035","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=252035"}},{"id":"251832","reference":"AQW 51770/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-01","answerBy":"2015-12-16","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the implementation of action plan recommendations as set out in the Bamford Review Equal Lives report on learning disability.","answerText":"The Bamford Review, including the recommendations of the Equal Lives report, is being taken forward through the implementation of the current Bamford Action Plan 2012-15.\n\nProgress of the Bamford Action Plan is monitored by the Bamford Inter Departmental Senior Officials Group biannually. The last monitoring round was in October 2015, and the position on the learning disability actions and joint mental health / learning disability actions is detailed at Annex A.\n\nA comprehensive evaluation of the Action Plan is underway and will be completed by Spring 2016.\n\nANNEX A\n\nPROGRESS AGAINST BAMFORD ACTION PLAN 2012-15 AT OCTOBER 2015:\n\nLEARNING DISABILITY AND JOINT MENTAL HEALTH / LEARNING DISABILITY ACTIONS\n\nAction No.\tKey Action\tRAG rating\tProgress at October 2015\n1\tPublish and implement a revised cross-sectoral promoting Mental Health Strategy (DHSSPS)\tAMBER\tThe New Protect Life Strategy is being substantially re-drafted into two parts: 1 - frontline intervention/postvention; 2 – early intervention. Part 1 of the document recently issued to stakeholders for pre-public consultation comment. These amendments are currently being reflected in the document. Consultation will take place in early 2016.\n2\tDevelop final proposals for Early Years Strategy (DE)\tGREEN\tThis action is completed. 'Learning to Learn - A Framework for Early Years Education and Learning' was published on 7 October 2013. The overall policy aim of Learning to Learn is that all children have equal opportunities to achieve their potential through high quality early years education and learning experiences. Full implementation to be achieved by 2015/16. The implementation of actions which require legislative change may be delayed.\n3\tImplement a 10 year Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation (DCAL)\tGREEN\t‘Sport Matters’: The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, 2009-2019' was launched in 2010 and is live until 2019.\nIn 2013, DCAL and Sport NI delivered a pilot programme, ‘Mental Health and Well-being in Sport’ to support the Public Health Agency (PHA) in raising awareness of mental health, break down barriers and perceived stigma within sport on the subject of mental well-being. Funding the Mental Health and Well Being through Sport pilot programme enabled engagement with 5 Governing Bodies of Sport (GBs) and as a result there have been two phases of the programme reaching 85 selected clubs from areas of high social need and within the existing five governing bodies. Additionally, PHA partnership investment enabled Sport NI to deliver 75 mental health awareness training sessions (delivered by Mindwise and Aware Defeat Depression).\nReflecting the commitment by Sport NI to further developing mental health and well-being within sport, the following actions will be taken forward by Sport NI in the short to medium term:1. Appoint a lead Sport NI officer for Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport who is responsible for both the strategic direction and operational aspects. (Oct 15)2. Sport NI to ‘sign up’ to the Mental Health Charter for Sport created and launched by Sport and Recreation Alliance (SRA) in 2015. (Nov 15)3. Establishment of a Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport Strategic Steering Group involving all relevant statutory and voluntary partners. (Jan 16)4. Completion of a desk based review of relevant policies, strategies and interventions that have used ‘Sport’ as a tool for promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport. (April 16)5. Development of a Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport Action Plan with an associated research monitoring and evaluation framework. (Oct 16)\n4\tPromote an anti-bullying culture within the schools in partnership with the NI Anti-bullying Forum (DE)\tGREEN\tDE continues to work with NI Anti-Bullying Forum (NIABF) to promote an anti- bullying culture in schools. A wide ranging joint DE / NIABF work programme has been agreed.\nThe Education Minister announced on 23 June 2014, his intention to introduce new Anti-Bullying Legislation in the current Assembly Mandate. The proposed legislation will provide a common definition of bullying; require all schools to centrally record incidents of bullying, their motivation and their outcomes; and require Boards of Governors to play an active role in the preparation and implementation of anti-bullying policies and measures within the school. A draft Bill has now been agreed and confirmation of legislative competence is being sought from the Departmental Solicitors Office and the Office of the Attorney General. The Minister is currently seeking Executive consent for its introduction to the Assembly. It remains the intention for the Bill to complete its legislative passage before the end of the current Assembly Mandate.\n5\tEnsure that persons with a learning disability have equal access to the full range of primary health care services (DHSSPS / HSCB)\tGREEN\tLearning Disability Directed Enhanced Services (DES) has been implemented with the aim of ensuring that all adults with a Learning Disability have annual physical and mental health checks and follow up by a health promotion nurse if required. The majority of GP practices are signed up but a few remain outside of the DES.\nAn Evaluation report of the DES was completed in 2014 and 3 forums have been established to take forward key improvements.\nAction No.\tKey Action\tRAG Rating\tProgress at October 2015\n12\tPublish a strategy for the implementation of recommendations arising from the PSI report on Disability. (OFMDFM)\tGREEN\tThis action is complete. This strategy was launched in February 2013. The Strategy was due to run until 2015; however in May 2015, the Executive agreed to extend the life of the Strategy until March 2017.\nhttp://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-2012-2015-revised-010313.pdf\n13\tResettle long stay patients from learning disability and mental health hospitals (DHSSPS / HSCB)\tAMBER\tThe March 2015 target date was not met, but resettlement is progressing. A small number of supported living schemes are still to be opened.\nProgress to date:\nMental Health – 2007 Primary Target List for resettlement – 472. Currently 19 people remain in hospital. Most of these are planned to be resettled, with a small number (7) remaining in hospital for treatment or are legal challenging resettlement.\nLearning Disability – 2007 Primary Target List for resettlement – 347. Currently 26 people remain in hospital. Most of these are planned to be resettled, with a small number (3) remaining in hospital for treatment or are legal challenging resettlement.\n14\tScope existing supported housing capacity / suitability to maximise resources (DSD)\tGREEN\tCompleted. This action is linked to action 15 in relation to new build and 'off the shelf' purchase. As part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) the Department, in conjunction with the NIHE, routinely and regularly examines the suitability of existing supported housing capacity to meet identified need.\n15\tEnsure new build supported housing programmes are ‘future proofed’ to ensure longevity/sustainability in terms of the tenants. (DSD)\tGREEN\tCompleted. The DSD Housing Association Guide includes specific detailed design standards for Housing Associations who deliver new supported housing. The Guide is updated as required. This ensures all new social housing adheres to Building Regulations and Lifetime Homes standard.\n16\tTo support and develop the Employment Advisor Teams to deliver services to people with mental ill-health or a learning disability. (DEL)\tGREEN\tDisability Employment Service, in partnership with Regional Learning and Development, local disability organisations and staff from the Health Trusts continues to provide training, coaching and other development to help the Employment Service Advisers provide support to this client group.\n17\tMaintain support arrangements and extended eligibility for participants with disabilities on the Training for Success programme. (DEL)\tGREEN\tOngoing. DEL provides a guaranteed training place on its Training for Success (TfS) programme for all unemployed young people in the 16-17 age groups (including those with special educational needs). The programme also provides extended eligibility for those with a disability up to age 22. Disability support services, delivered based on identified needs, include: participant coaching/mentoring, interpreter services and disability awareness training.\n18\tWiden Participation in Higher Education Strategy. (DEL)\tGREEN\tSignificant progress continues to be made on a range of Key Actions in Access to Success.\nThe \"Reach Higher\" HE awareness and aspiration raising campaign continued during September 2014 with the focus on digital advertising. It re-commenced in November 2014 through to early December with a focus on TV, Press, outdoor media and digital advertising. Following a break for Christmas outdoor media activity began again in mid January 2015 this coincided with radio and online advertising. There was a further burst of TV advertising in Feb and March 2015.\nMost HE providers have approved Widening Access & Participation Plans (WAPPs) in respect of the 2015/16 academic year in place. All providers identified students with a disability as a target group with interventions planned to improve enrolments, retention and success of these students. When the outstanding WAPPs are approved, institutions will be invited to submit for approval their WAPPs for 2016/17.\nProject teams have been set up to work on the identification of students with multiple barriers to participation in HE and the development of exceptional routes of HE application by students from disadvantaged backgrounds including students with disabilities.\n19\tEstablish and progress effective Partnership Agreements and joint working arrangements with post-primary schools, further education, training and apprenticeship providers, HSC Trusts and organisations who act as advocates for young people with a variety of barriers, including disabilities. (DEL)\tGREEN\tOn Target: Partnership Agreements and service delivery were evaluated and reviewed with all post primary schools during 2013/14. Review and agreement of 2014/15 PAs currently underway. Target to have 98% of partnership agreements with schools agreed by end of October 2014 was achieved. Partnership Agreements are also in place between the Careers Service and further education and training suppliers, HSC Trusts and organisations who act as advocates for young people with a variety of barriers, including disabilities.\n20\tLead on the implementation of a cross-departmental Strategy - \"Pathways to Success\" - for those young people Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). (DEL)\tGREEN\tLocal Employment Intermediary Service has exceeded target with 1,080 NEETs case loaded (41.6%) and at the end of January 2015, 424 individuals (39.25%) moved into positive destinations.\nThe Community Family Support Programme aims to support 720 disadvantaged families that include NEETs and potential NEETs between November 2013 and March 2015. To date 480 families have been supported in cycle 1&2 and the additional 240 families are due to commence the programme on 29 September 2014.\nThe Collaboration and Innovation Fund had supported 3,910 young people by the end of August 2014 and moved 1296 (52%) of those leaving the programme into positive outcomes of employment, education and training. Programme on target.\n21\tTo develop Careers Service delivery to support the above mentioned \"Pathways to Success\" Strategy (for NEETs). (DEL)\tGREEN\tOn Target: The Careers Service continues to support all 16 and 17 year olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). At the 2nd January 2015, 573 16 and 17 year olds were being actively case managed by Careers Advisers.\n22\tContinue to work in partnership with DE to increase the level of information sharing in respect of relevant pupil data being shared with DEL's Careers Service including electronic sharing of pupil data via C2K. (DEL/DE)\tGREEN\tOn Target: Data Sharing Agreements reviewed with DE during August 2014. Revised agreement now in place for 2014/15 academic year. Electronic transfer of pupil data for 2014/15 Year 10 cohort is currently being tested for transfer, with plans for the details of approximately 24,000 pupils to transfer directly from C2K to CMS. Careers Service is currently working with C2K to progress the electronic download for the 2015/16 academic year.\n23\tContinue to provide specialist support, as appropriate, for young people considering participating in Training for Success (TfS). (DEL)\tGREEN\tProvision of appropriate targeted support is ongoing. DEL provides Pre-Entry Training Support referral for school-leavers with a disability. These young people are referred by Careers Advisers to receive specialist support by providers specialising in disability and learning support. This process aims to ensure that support needs in training are identified and put in place as soon as possible after commencement of training.\n24\tIncorporate provision within the design of the new Work Connect Programme to meet the employment needs of those who are claiming Employment Support Allowance and who have mental ill- health and learning disability. (DEL)\tGREEN\tSince the launch of the Work Connect Programme 441 (44%) of the 999 starts have Mental ill-health disability. 63 (6%) people have a Learning disability and 31 (3%) have Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Of those who have started the programme 141 (11%) have found employment. 121 (86%) of these have Mental ill-health, 15 (11%) have Learning disability and 5 (3%) have ASD.\n25\tTo support the uptake of self-directed support and individual budgets in line with Transforming Your Care (DHSSPS)\tAMBER\t“Who Cares?” the first stage of the reform of adult care and support was published in September 2012. The document states the need for care and support to be personalised to individual need and focuses on the concept of personalisation.\nFuture policy direction on self-directed support will flow from the Reform of Adult Social Care, but has been delayed due to difficulties in securing resources for the financial modelling work. It remains the intention to launch consultation on a stage 2 proposals paper in Spring 2017.\nHowever, the roll-out of self-directed support by the HSCB is ongoing and the number of people with self-directed support continues to increase.\nMental Health has seen an increase of 34% from 2012/13 to 2014/15 and Learning Disability has seen an increase of 39% for the same period.\n26\tTake forward and implement Review of Special Educational Needs & Inclusion (DE)\tGREEN\tThe Special Educational Needs Review proposals relate to all young people with special educational needs, as defined in the 1996 Order, regardless of the particular need. If a child, up to age 19, as a result of mental ill health or a learning disability has special educational needs, then the new framework will include them. The Minister’s policy proposals were accepted by the Executive in July 2012.\nThe Education Committee completed its clause by clause scrutiny of the SEND Bill on 14 October and expects to finalise its report on the Bill in early November. Once the SEND Bill leaves Committee Stage the desire is to move to Consideration Stage as soon as possible thereafter. The new SEN framework will be delivered through a number of elements: the SEND Bill; new SEN regulations; and new Code of Practice. While progressing the SEN Bill in the current Assembly's mandate is the priority, it is intended to carry out engagement with key stakeholders in the coming months and then formal consultation early 2016 on the SEN regulations and Code of Practice.\n27\tImplement \"Developing Advocacy Services - A Policy Guide for Commissioners\" (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tAn Independent Advocacy Code of Practice and Standards Framework was launched in June 2014. Members of the Advocacy Network NI have committed to the code of practice and are using it as part of their induction and training programmes for new staff and volunteers.\nAn RQIA Review is underway and any recommendations will be considered for action.\n28\tTo support the employment of experts by experience in the commissioning and delivery of mental health and disability services. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tCurrent Bamford Structures, including the Programme Board and the Learning Disability sub group have parents and carers representation, who contribute to commissioning decisions.\n18 Peer Support Workers are now employed across the 5 HSC Trusts.\n29\tInvestigate how information provision on transportation issues can be improved for people with learning disabilities. (DRD)\tGREEN\tThe refreshed Travel Safe Guide was published in June 2014 and continues to be issued to voluntary groups, learning disability groups and schools.\nTranslink have reviewed their access guide which is available on the Translink website http://www.translink.co.uk/accessibility/translink-access-guide/ and at Translink Stations.\n30\tExamine options for improving the provision of travel training schemes. (DRD)\tGREEN\tThe Transport Buddy pilot scheme has been evaluated and recommendations have been made for a future roll-out of the scheme.\nA decision in respect of the Transport Buddy Scheme evaluation is still under consideration.\n31\tReview the training of staff to ensure that its content covers the needs of people with a learning disability. (DRD)\tGREEN\tOngoing programme of Diversity Now training to DRD staff.\nOngoing Programme of Disability Awareness Training is available to all NICS staff.\nOngoing programme of MIDAS Training (Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) to drivers which includes Disability Equality Training.\nTranslink provides an ongoing training programme to staff to deal with passengers with learning disabilities, with input from the NOW Project and Mencap. Translink have provided training to 1720 drivers which covers hidden and learning disabilities and dementia.\n37\tEnhance the arrangements to meet demand for respite including emergency respite and short break care (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tProvision of respite is based on a carers assessment, the range and choice of respite has been extended and improved.\nMental Health Short Break hours have increased from 110,003 to 146,737 from 2014 to 2015.\nLearning Disability short breaks have increased from 1,107,215 to 1,234,856 from 2014 to 2015\nNB These figures exclude Day Care.\n38\tTo provide support to all carers in order that they may continue in their caring role. (DHSSPS)\tAMBER\tThe HSCB is striving to ensure that all carers are offered a carers assessment. The number of carers assessments offered has increased by 27.5% from 2012/13 to 2013/14.\nThere has been an increase of 19% in the numbers of carers offered assessment across both Mental Health and Learning Disability Programmes of Care between 2013/14 and 2014/15.\nHowever whilst the numbers of carers assessments are increasing, the target of all carers is unlikely to be achieved as some carers do not wish for an assessment to be completed.\n39\tCarry out a scoping exercise to ascertain future caring requirements for people with a learning disability living with elderly carers where there is a risk of a breakdown in caring arrangements and develop a rolling costed plan to support them. (DHSSPS/DSD)\tGREEN\tResearch is currently underway into the future care needs of older people with a learning disability and their families and carers. A plan which will consider both housing and care elements will be developed in conjunction with DSD.\nA scoping exercise for those carers of people with learning disabilities who are 55 years old and above was completed. A second scoping exercise has been completed by the 5 HSC Trusts looking at carers of individuals who are 35 - 54 years. £2M recurrent funding (£1M part year funding in 2015/16) has been secured to develop services to meet this need.\n40\tMonitor/review departmental capital budget (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tOngoing - Mental Health and Learning Disability policy leads regularly liaise with relevant branches within the Department on proposed and current capital schemes.\n41\tComplete research into priorities highlighted by Bamford rapid reviews (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tAll the priority research projects are underway, led by the Public Health Agency, and involving universities, HSC organisations and PPI representatives. The results from the first project, “Parental Alcohol Use and Resilience in Young People in Northern Ireland: A study of Family, Peer & School Processes” has completed and the final report has now undergone peer review. Results will be disseminated at an event with key stakeholders in early 2016.\nhttp://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/bamford-rapid-reviews\n42\tTo ensure Personal and Public Involvement, (PPI), in planning, commissioning, delivery and evaluation of services in line with guidance. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tDHSSPS issued guidance on effective PPI implementation in Sep 2012. Implementation of this guidance is being led by the PHA through the Regional PPI Forum.\n43\tTo carry out a qualitative research study into our customers who have a disability to allow us to obtain an insight into the thoughts and behaviours of this specific group of customers. (DSD)\tGREEN\tThe research has been completed and published by DSD in December 2013.\nhttp://www.dsdni.gov.uk/dla_and_aa_-the_impact_of_the_benefits_and_an_exploration_of_dla_and_work.pdf\n44\tTo develop and implement a strategy for increasing the uptake of benefits. (DSD)\tGREEN\tMaximising Incomes & Outcomes is a 3 year plan for improving the uptake of benefits (2013 - 2016). Year 2 has been completed and results will be published after Ministerial approval is given. Year 3 is well underway and plans are in place to devise a new strategy for Benefit Uptake commencing April 2016.\n45\tTo work in Partnership with organisations and government departments which are impacted by Universal Credit. (DSD)\tGREEN\tVarious governance structures have been established to include all organisations impacted by Universal Credit in the development of customer journeys, planning and communications. There is also ongoing consultation between relevant Departments to define eligibility for other benefits that are available to those in receipt of Social Security benefit, for example, free school meals. These are known as ‘passported’ benefits. Work is on-going but has been delayed due to uncertainty around the Welfare Reform Bill.\n46\tTo improve access to advice and information on services and support available. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tMental Health web portal was launched by NI Direct in April 2015. Amendments to the Family Support Network have been completed for CAMHS. The Mental Health web portal went live 01/04/2015.\nA Learning Disability web portal is next to be developed.\nhttp://www.familysupportni.gov.uk/\n47\tImprove services for children with challenging behaviours and their carers. (DHSSPS/DE)\tAMBER\tThe HSCB in 2012-13 committed £1m regionally to support development of services within Trusts for Children with Disability who display challenging behaviours. This initial allocation was to support developments of services at level 3 of the NI family support model and was in addition to additional funds provided to the regional unit at Iveagh to enhance the tier 4 service. In 2015-16, the HSCB has committed an additional £1.2m to enhance supports at level 2-3 for with a clear emphasis on early intervention and reducing the number of Children requiring placements outside of NI.\n48\tDevelop and implement a Service Framework for learning disability services. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tA Service Framework for learning disability services was launched in September 2012.\nYear I benchmarking against standard completed.\nFramework revised and reissued January 2015.\n49\tMaintain direction of HSC funding towards community based services (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tThe percentage of the total learning disability expenditure directed towards community-based services continues to increase. 83% of HSC spend on learning disability services in 2012/13 was in community services and 85% in 2013/14.\nThe percentage of the total learning disability expenditure being spent on community based services continues to increase.\nIn 2014/15 expenditures was 12% Hospital, 88% Community services.\n50\tEnhance provision of person – centred day opportunities (including employment provision) for people with a learning disability that facilitate integration into the community (DHSSPS)\tAMBER\tImplementation of the HSCB Day Opportunities Model has commenced. A Regional Implementation Team and Local Implementation teams in each Trust are in place. Full implementation is dependent on additional resources.\n51\tComplete and maintain a map of learning disability services across Northern Ireland (DHSSPS)\tAMBER\tThe HSCB will commence development of a web based map of learning disability services following completion of the mental health service mapping exercise (action 61 refers).\nFollowing the launch of a Mental Health online information service in April 2015, a Learning Disability equivalent will be developed. Date for commencement April 2016.\n52\tImprove transitions planning for all children with statement of special educational needs. (DE)\tGREEN\tDE continues to engage with the Education Authority's (EA) Education Transition Service to take forward recommendations in the ETI Transitions Report. The EA has reported that it is already taking actions to improve the education transitions process on foot of the ETI's recommendations. DE is making good progress, in consultation with the EA and other relevant Departments, on revisions to the SEN Code of Practice that aim to strengthen the transition planning process. DE is also working with the EA to progress the Education actions in the Post-19 Transitions Focus Group Action Plan and will liaise with other Departments as necessary.\n53\tDevelopment of UK wide framework for learning disability nurses. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tComplete. The NI action plan for “Strengthening the Commitment” was launched in July 2014. The action plan will be implemented and monitored by a regional implementation group who will report to the office of the Chief Nursing Officer on an annual basis.\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/learning-disability-action-plan.pdf\n54\tDevelop a plan for community forensic learning disability services taking account of service to be provided with available resources and which makes full use of other forensic arrangements in place. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tCompleted. A model for community forensic learning disability services has been developed and £550K invested in 2015/16 to take this forward.\n55\tCommunity Dental Service to undertake an annual oral health assessment for each L.D. client and produce an individual oral health plan, referring as appropriate for care. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tThis is ongoing, assessment is undertaken annually.\nOral Health Issues are being addressed and preventative measures employed.\n56\tCommunity Dental Service to provide training/ training materials for staff in day care facilities re significance of oral health issues. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tOngoing - Regular training is being provided for staff as required.\n57\tImprove the experience of people with LD using acute general hospitals based on the GAIN Guidelines \"Caring for people with a learning disability in general hospital settings\" (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tFollowing an RQIA review of the care of people with a learning disability in acute hospitals, the HSCB and PHA are implementing the findings. A forum has been established to prioritise and take forward this work. Key activities undertaken to date include a scoping exercise across HSC Trusts to establish progress against the recommendations within the GAIN Guidelines and the development of a draft Regional Hospital Passport.\n58\tImplement a regional Bed Management Protocol for those with a learning disability. (DHSSPS)\tAMBER\tA draft Bed Management Protocol for those with a Learning Disability has been drawn up and is awaiting agreement by Trusts.\n74\tEnsure relevant Inter-Departmental and cross sectoral structures are maintained (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tThe Bamford Inter Departmental Senior Officials Group meets every 6 months, with the last meeting held on 3 November. The Evaluation of the 2012 - 2015 Action Plan is currently underway and expected by Spring 2016.\n75\tSponsor work on cross-cutting issues, involving the relevant agencies at local level along with service users and their carers. (DHSSPS)\tGREEN\tDHSSPS, with the assistance of PCC and BMG, have undertaken a number of focus groups with service users, carers and involving community/voluntary sector. A questionnaire has been developed for carers of people with a LD as part of the Bamford Evaluation, which covers health, education, post-school provision, transport.\n76\tNew mental capacity legislation\tAMBER\tConsultation summary report was published in February 2015. Final draft of Bill completed on 9 March 2015.\nBill introduced on 8 June 2015.\nBill timetable still allows for Royal Assent by the end of the current mandate. Commencement date to be confirmed, subject to progress on implementation arrangements,","answerHtml":"The Bamford Review, including the recommendations of the Equal Lives report, is being taken forward through the implementation of the current Bamford Action Plan 2012-15.
Progress of the Bamford Action Plan is monitored by the Bamford Inter Departmental Senior Officials Group biannually. The last monitoring round was in October 2015, and the position on the learning disability actions and joint mental health / learning disability actions is detailed at Annex A.
A comprehensive evaluation of the Action Plan is underway and will be completed by Spring 2016.
ANNEX A
PROGRESS AGAINST BAMFORD ACTION PLAN 2012-15 AT OCTOBER 2015:
LEARNING DISABILITY AND JOINT MENTAL HEALTH / LEARNING DISABILITY ACTIONS
| Action No. | Key Action | RAG rating | Progress at October 2015 |
| 1 | Publish and implement a revised cross-sectoral promoting Mental Health Strategy (DHSSPS) | AMBER | The New Protect Life Strategy is being substantially re-drafted into two parts: 1 - frontline intervention/postvention; 2 – early intervention. Part 1 of the document recently issued to stakeholders for pre-public consultation comment. These amendments are currently being reflected in the document. Consultation will take place in early 2016. |
| 2 | Develop final proposals for Early Years Strategy (DE) | GREEN | This action is completed. 'Learning to Learn - A Framework for Early Years Education and Learning' was published on 7 October 2013. The overall policy aim of Learning to Learn is that all children have equal opportunities to achieve their potential through high quality early years education and learning experiences. Full implementation to be achieved by 2015/16. The implementation of actions which require legislative change may be delayed. |
| 3 | Implement a 10 year Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation (DCAL) | GREEN | ‘Sport Matters’: The Northern Ireland Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation, 2009-2019' was launched in 2010 and is live until 2019. In 2013, DCAL and Sport NI delivered a pilot programme, ‘Mental Health and Well-being in Sport’ to support the Public Health Agency (PHA) in raising awareness of mental health, break down barriers and perceived stigma within sport on the subject of mental well-being. Funding the Mental Health and Well Being through Sport pilot programme enabled engagement with 5 Governing Bodies of Sport (GBs) and as a result there have been two phases of the programme reaching 85 selected clubs from areas of high social need and within the existing five governing bodies. Additionally, PHA partnership investment enabled Sport NI to deliver 75 mental health awareness training sessions (delivered by Mindwise and Aware Defeat Depression). Reflecting the commitment by Sport NI to further developing mental health and well-being within sport, the following actions will be taken forward by Sport NI in the short to medium term:1. Appoint a lead Sport NI officer for Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport who is responsible for both the strategic direction and operational aspects. (Oct 15)2. Sport NI to ‘sign up’ to the Mental Health Charter for Sport created and launched by Sport and Recreation Alliance (SRA) in 2015. (Nov 15)3. Establishment of a Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport Strategic Steering Group involving all relevant statutory and voluntary partners. (Jan 16)4. Completion of a desk based review of relevant policies, strategies and interventions that have used ‘Sport’ as a tool for promoting Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport. (April 16)5. Development of a Mental Health and Wellbeing In and Through Sport Action Plan with an associated research monitoring and evaluation framework. (Oct 16) |
| 4 | Promote an anti-bullying culture within the schools in partnership with the NI Anti-bullying Forum (DE) | GREEN | DE continues to work with NI Anti-Bullying Forum (NIABF) to promote an anti- bullying culture in schools. A wide ranging joint DE / NIABF work programme has been agreed. The Education Minister announced on 23 June 2014, his intention to introduce new Anti-Bullying Legislation in the current Assembly Mandate. The proposed legislation will provide a common definition of bullying; require all schools to centrally record incidents of bullying, their motivation and their outcomes; and require Boards of Governors to play an active role in the preparation and implementation of anti-bullying policies and measures within the school. A draft Bill has now been agreed and confirmation of legislative competence is being sought from the Departmental Solicitors Office and the Office of the Attorney General. The Minister is currently seeking Executive consent for its introduction to the Assembly. It remains the intention for the Bill to complete its legislative passage before the end of the current Assembly Mandate. |
| 5 | Ensure that persons with a learning disability have equal access to the full range of primary health care services (DHSSPS / HSCB) | GREEN | Learning Disability Directed Enhanced Services (DES) has been implemented with the aim of ensuring that all adults with a Learning Disability have annual physical and mental health checks and follow up by a health promotion nurse if required. The majority of GP practices are signed up but a few remain outside of the DES. An Evaluation report of the DES was completed in 2014 and 3 forums have been established to take forward key improvements. |
| Action No. | Key Action | RAG Rating | Progress at October 2015 |
| 12 | Publish a strategy for the implementation of recommendations arising from the PSI report on Disability. (OFMDFM) | GREEN | This action is complete. This strategy was launched in February 2013. The Strategy was due to run until 2015; however in May 2015, the Executive agreed to extend the life of the Strategy until March 2017. http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-2012-2015-revised-010313.pdf |
| 13 | Resettle long stay patients from learning disability and mental health hospitals (DHSSPS / HSCB) | AMBER | The March 2015 target date was not met, but resettlement is progressing. A small number of supported living schemes are still to be opened. Progress to date: Mental Health – 2007 Primary Target List for resettlement – 472. Currently 19 people remain in hospital. Most of these are planned to be resettled, with a small number (7) remaining in hospital for treatment or are legal challenging resettlement. Learning Disability – 2007 Primary Target List for resettlement – 347. Currently 26 people remain in hospital. Most of these are planned to be resettled, with a small number (3) remaining in hospital for treatment or are legal challenging resettlement. |
| 14 | Scope existing supported housing capacity / suitability to maximise resources (DSD) | GREEN | Completed. This action is linked to action 15 in relation to new build and 'off the shelf' purchase. As part of the Social Housing Development Programme (SHDP) the Department, in conjunction with the NIHE, routinely and regularly examines the suitability of existing supported housing capacity to meet identified need. |
| 15 | Ensure new build supported housing programmes are ‘future proofed’ to ensure longevity/sustainability in terms of the tenants. (DSD) | GREEN | Completed. The DSD Housing Association Guide includes specific detailed design standards for Housing Associations who deliver new supported housing. The Guide is updated as required. This ensures all new social housing adheres to Building Regulations and Lifetime Homes standard. |
| 16 | To support and develop the Employment Advisor Teams to deliver services to people with mental ill-health or a learning disability. (DEL) | GREEN | Disability Employment Service, in partnership with Regional Learning and Development, local disability organisations and staff from the Health Trusts continues to provide training, coaching and other development to help the Employment Service Advisers provide support to this client group. |
| 17 | Maintain support arrangements and extended eligibility for participants with disabilities on the Training for Success programme. (DEL) | GREEN | Ongoing. DEL provides a guaranteed training place on its Training for Success (TfS) programme for all unemployed young people in the 16-17 age groups (including those with special educational needs). The programme also provides extended eligibility for those with a disability up to age 22. Disability support services, delivered based on identified needs, include: participant coaching/mentoring, interpreter services and disability awareness training. |
| 18 | Widen Participation in Higher Education Strategy. (DEL) | GREEN | Significant progress continues to be made on a range of Key Actions in Access to Success. The "Reach Higher" HE awareness and aspiration raising campaign continued during September 2014 with the focus on digital advertising. It re-commenced in November 2014 through to early December with a focus on TV, Press, outdoor media and digital advertising. Following a break for Christmas outdoor media activity began again in mid January 2015 this coincided with radio and online advertising. There was a further burst of TV advertising in Feb and March 2015. Most HE providers have approved Widening Access & Participation Plans (WAPPs) in respect of the 2015/16 academic year in place. All providers identified students with a disability as a target group with interventions planned to improve enrolments, retention and success of these students. When the outstanding WAPPs are approved, institutions will be invited to submit for approval their WAPPs for 2016/17. Project teams have been set up to work on the identification of students with multiple barriers to participation in HE and the development of exceptional routes of HE application by students from disadvantaged backgrounds including students with disabilities. |
| 19 | Establish and progress effective Partnership Agreements and joint working arrangements with post-primary schools, further education, training and apprenticeship providers, HSC Trusts and organisations who act as advocates for young people with a variety of barriers, including disabilities. (DEL) | GREEN | On Target: Partnership Agreements and service delivery were evaluated and reviewed with all post primary schools during 2013/14. Review and agreement of 2014/15 PAs currently underway. Target to have 98% of partnership agreements with schools agreed by end of October 2014 was achieved. Partnership Agreements are also in place between the Careers Service and further education and training suppliers, HSC Trusts and organisations who act as advocates for young people with a variety of barriers, including disabilities. |
| 20 | Lead on the implementation of a cross-departmental Strategy - "Pathways to Success" - for those young people Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). (DEL) | GREEN | Local Employment Intermediary Service has exceeded target with 1,080 NEETs case loaded (41.6%) and at the end of January 2015, 424 individuals (39.25%) moved into positive destinations. The Community Family Support Programme aims to support 720 disadvantaged families that include NEETs and potential NEETs between November 2013 and March 2015. To date 480 families have been supported in cycle 1&2 and the additional 240 families are due to commence the programme on 29 September 2014. The Collaboration and Innovation Fund had supported 3,910 young people by the end of August 2014 and moved 1296 (52%) of those leaving the programme into positive outcomes of employment, education and training. Programme on target. |
| 21 | To develop Careers Service delivery to support the above mentioned "Pathways to Success" Strategy (for NEETs). (DEL) | GREEN | On Target: The Careers Service continues to support all 16 and 17 year olds who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). At the 2nd January 2015, 573 16 and 17 year olds were being actively case managed by Careers Advisers. |
| 22 | Continue to work in partnership with DE to increase the level of information sharing in respect of relevant pupil data being shared with DEL's Careers Service including electronic sharing of pupil data via C2K. (DEL/DE) | GREEN | On Target: Data Sharing Agreements reviewed with DE during August 2014. Revised agreement now in place for 2014/15 academic year. Electronic transfer of pupil data for 2014/15 Year 10 cohort is currently being tested for transfer, with plans for the details of approximately 24,000 pupils to transfer directly from C2K to CMS. Careers Service is currently working with C2K to progress the electronic download for the 2015/16 academic year. |
| 23 | Continue to provide specialist support, as appropriate, for young people considering participating in Training for Success (TfS). (DEL) | GREEN | Provision of appropriate targeted support is ongoing. DEL provides Pre-Entry Training Support referral for school-leavers with a disability. These young people are referred by Careers Advisers to receive specialist support by providers specialising in disability and learning support. This process aims to ensure that support needs in training are identified and put in place as soon as possible after commencement of training. |
| 24 | Incorporate provision within the design of the new Work Connect Programme to meet the employment needs of those who are claiming Employment Support Allowance and who have mental ill- health and learning disability. (DEL) | GREEN | Since the launch of the Work Connect Programme 441 (44%) of the 999 starts have Mental ill-health disability. 63 (6%) people have a Learning disability and 31 (3%) have Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Of those who have started the programme 141 (11%) have found employment. 121 (86%) of these have Mental ill-health, 15 (11%) have Learning disability and 5 (3%) have ASD. |
| 25 | To support the uptake of self-directed support and individual budgets in line with Transforming Your Care (DHSSPS) | AMBER | “Who Cares?” the first stage of the reform of adult care and support was published in September 2012. The document states the need for care and support to be personalised to individual need and focuses on the concept of personalisation. Future policy direction on self-directed support will flow from the Reform of Adult Social Care, but has been delayed due to difficulties in securing resources for the financial modelling work. It remains the intention to launch consultation on a stage 2 proposals paper in Spring 2017. However, the roll-out of self-directed support by the HSCB is ongoing and the number of people with self-directed support continues to increase. Mental Health has seen an increase of 34% from 2012/13 to 2014/15 and Learning Disability has seen an increase of 39% for the same period. |
| 26 | Take forward and implement Review of Special Educational Needs & Inclusion (DE) | GREEN | The Special Educational Needs Review proposals relate to all young people with special educational needs, as defined in the 1996 Order, regardless of the particular need. If a child, up to age 19, as a result of mental ill health or a learning disability has special educational needs, then the new framework will include them. The Minister’s policy proposals were accepted by the Executive in July 2012. The Education Committee completed its clause by clause scrutiny of the SEND Bill on 14 October and expects to finalise its report on the Bill in early November. Once the SEND Bill leaves Committee Stage the desire is to move to Consideration Stage as soon as possible thereafter. The new SEN framework will be delivered through a number of elements: the SEND Bill; new SEN regulations; and new Code of Practice. While progressing the SEN Bill in the current Assembly's mandate is the priority, it is intended to carry out engagement with key stakeholders in the coming months and then formal consultation early 2016 on the SEN regulations and Code of Practice. |
| 27 | Implement "Developing Advocacy Services - A Policy Guide for Commissioners" (DHSSPS) | GREEN | An Independent Advocacy Code of Practice and Standards Framework was launched in June 2014. Members of the Advocacy Network NI have committed to the code of practice and are using it as part of their induction and training programmes for new staff and volunteers. An RQIA Review is underway and any recommendations will be considered for action. |
| 28 | To support the employment of experts by experience in the commissioning and delivery of mental health and disability services. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Current Bamford Structures, including the Programme Board and the Learning Disability sub group have parents and carers representation, who contribute to commissioning decisions. 18 Peer Support Workers are now employed across the 5 HSC Trusts. |
| 29 | Investigate how information provision on transportation issues can be improved for people with learning disabilities. (DRD) | GREEN | The refreshed Travel Safe Guide was published in June 2014 and continues to be issued to voluntary groups, learning disability groups and schools. Translink have reviewed their access guide which is available on the Translink website http://www.translink.co.uk/accessibility/translink-access-guide/ and at Translink Stations. |
| 30 | Examine options for improving the provision of travel training schemes. (DRD) | GREEN | The Transport Buddy pilot scheme has been evaluated and recommendations have been made for a future roll-out of the scheme. A decision in respect of the Transport Buddy Scheme evaluation is still under consideration. |
| 31 | Review the training of staff to ensure that its content covers the needs of people with a learning disability. (DRD) | GREEN | Ongoing programme of Diversity Now training to DRD staff. Ongoing Programme of Disability Awareness Training is available to all NICS staff. Ongoing programme of MIDAS Training (Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme) to drivers which includes Disability Equality Training. Translink provides an ongoing training programme to staff to deal with passengers with learning disabilities, with input from the NOW Project and Mencap. Translink have provided training to 1720 drivers which covers hidden and learning disabilities and dementia. |
| 37 | Enhance the arrangements to meet demand for respite including emergency respite and short break care (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Provision of respite is based on a carers assessment, the range and choice of respite has been extended and improved. Mental Health Short Break hours have increased from 110,003 to 146,737 from 2014 to 2015. Learning Disability short breaks have increased from 1,107,215 to 1,234,856 from 2014 to 2015 NB These figures exclude Day Care. |
| 38 | To provide support to all carers in order that they may continue in their caring role. (DHSSPS) | AMBER | The HSCB is striving to ensure that all carers are offered a carers assessment. The number of carers assessments offered has increased by 27.5% from 2012/13 to 2013/14. There has been an increase of 19% in the numbers of carers offered assessment across both Mental Health and Learning Disability Programmes of Care between 2013/14 and 2014/15. However whilst the numbers of carers assessments are increasing, the target of all carers is unlikely to be achieved as some carers do not wish for an assessment to be completed. |
| 39 | Carry out a scoping exercise to ascertain future caring requirements for people with a learning disability living with elderly carers where there is a risk of a breakdown in caring arrangements and develop a rolling costed plan to support them. (DHSSPS/DSD) | GREEN | Research is currently underway into the future care needs of older people with a learning disability and their families and carers. A plan which will consider both housing and care elements will be developed in conjunction with DSD. A scoping exercise for those carers of people with learning disabilities who are 55 years old and above was completed. A second scoping exercise has been completed by the 5 HSC Trusts looking at carers of individuals who are 35 - 54 years. £2M recurrent funding (£1M part year funding in 2015/16) has been secured to develop services to meet this need. |
| 40 | Monitor/review departmental capital budget (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Ongoing - Mental Health and Learning Disability policy leads regularly liaise with relevant branches within the Department on proposed and current capital schemes. |
| 41 | Complete research into priorities highlighted by Bamford rapid reviews (DHSSPS) | GREEN | All the priority research projects are underway, led by the Public Health Agency, and involving universities, HSC organisations and PPI representatives. The results from the first project, “Parental Alcohol Use and Resilience in Young People in Northern Ireland: A study of Family, Peer & School Processes” has completed and the final report has now undergone peer review. Results will be disseminated at an event with key stakeholders in early 2016. http://www.publichealth.hscni.net/publications/bamford-rapid-reviews |
| 42 | To ensure Personal and Public Involvement, (PPI), in planning, commissioning, delivery and evaluation of services in line with guidance. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | DHSSPS issued guidance on effective PPI implementation in Sep 2012. Implementation of this guidance is being led by the PHA through the Regional PPI Forum. |
| 43 | To carry out a qualitative research study into our customers who have a disability to allow us to obtain an insight into the thoughts and behaviours of this specific group of customers. (DSD) | GREEN | The research has been completed and published by DSD in December 2013. http://www.dsdni.gov.uk/dla_and_aa_-the_impact_of_the_benefits_and_an_exploration_of_dla_and_work.pdf |
| 44 | To develop and implement a strategy for increasing the uptake of benefits. (DSD) | GREEN | Maximising Incomes & Outcomes is a 3 year plan for improving the uptake of benefits (2013 - 2016). Year 2 has been completed and results will be published after Ministerial approval is given. Year 3 is well underway and plans are in place to devise a new strategy for Benefit Uptake commencing April 2016. |
| 45 | To work in Partnership with organisations and government departments which are impacted by Universal Credit. (DSD) | GREEN | Various governance structures have been established to include all organisations impacted by Universal Credit in the development of customer journeys, planning and communications. There is also ongoing consultation between relevant Departments to define eligibility for other benefits that are available to those in receipt of Social Security benefit, for example, free school meals. These are known as ‘passported’ benefits. Work is on-going but has been delayed due to uncertainty around the Welfare Reform Bill. |
| 46 | To improve access to advice and information on services and support available. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Mental Health web portal was launched by NI Direct in April 2015. Amendments to the Family Support Network have been completed for CAMHS. The Mental Health web portal went live 01/04/2015. A Learning Disability web portal is next to be developed. http://www.familysupportni.gov.uk/ |
| 47 | Improve services for children with challenging behaviours and their carers. (DHSSPS/DE) | AMBER | The HSCB in 2012-13 committed £1m regionally to support development of services within Trusts for Children with Disability who display challenging behaviours. This initial allocation was to support developments of services at level 3 of the NI family support model and was in addition to additional funds provided to the regional unit at Iveagh to enhance the tier 4 service. In 2015-16, the HSCB has committed an additional £1.2m to enhance supports at level 2-3 for with a clear emphasis on early intervention and reducing the number of Children requiring placements outside of NI. |
| 48 | Develop and implement a Service Framework for learning disability services. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | A Service Framework for learning disability services was launched in September 2012. Year I benchmarking against standard completed. Framework revised and reissued January 2015. |
| 49 | Maintain direction of HSC funding towards community based services (DHSSPS) | GREEN | The percentage of the total learning disability expenditure directed towards community-based services continues to increase. 83% of HSC spend on learning disability services in 2012/13 was in community services and 85% in 2013/14. The percentage of the total learning disability expenditure being spent on community based services continues to increase. In 2014/15 expenditures was 12% Hospital, 88% Community services. |
| 50 | Enhance provision of person – centred day opportunities (including employment provision) for people with a learning disability that facilitate integration into the community (DHSSPS) | AMBER | Implementation of the HSCB Day Opportunities Model has commenced. A Regional Implementation Team and Local Implementation teams in each Trust are in place. Full implementation is dependent on additional resources. |
| 51 | Complete and maintain a map of learning disability services across Northern Ireland (DHSSPS) | AMBER | The HSCB will commence development of a web based map of learning disability services following completion of the mental health service mapping exercise (action 61 refers). Following the launch of a Mental Health online information service in April 2015, a Learning Disability equivalent will be developed. Date for commencement April 2016. |
| 52 | Improve transitions planning for all children with statement of special educational needs. (DE) | GREEN | DE continues to engage with the Education Authority's (EA) Education Transition Service to take forward recommendations in the ETI Transitions Report. The EA has reported that it is already taking actions to improve the education transitions process on foot of the ETI's recommendations. DE is making good progress, in consultation with the EA and other relevant Departments, on revisions to the SEN Code of Practice that aim to strengthen the transition planning process. DE is also working with the EA to progress the Education actions in the Post-19 Transitions Focus Group Action Plan and will liaise with other Departments as necessary. |
| 53 | Development of UK wide framework for learning disability nurses. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Complete. The NI action plan for “Strengthening the Commitment” was launched in July 2014. The action plan will be implemented and monitored by a regional implementation group who will report to the office of the Chief Nursing Officer on an annual basis. http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/learning-disability-action-plan.pdf |
| 54 | Develop a plan for community forensic learning disability services taking account of service to be provided with available resources and which makes full use of other forensic arrangements in place. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Completed. A model for community forensic learning disability services has been developed and £550K invested in 2015/16 to take this forward. |
| 55 | Community Dental Service to undertake an annual oral health assessment for each L.D. client and produce an individual oral health plan, referring as appropriate for care. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | This is ongoing, assessment is undertaken annually. Oral Health Issues are being addressed and preventative measures employed. |
| 56 | Community Dental Service to provide training/ training materials for staff in day care facilities re significance of oral health issues. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Ongoing - Regular training is being provided for staff as required. |
| 57 | Improve the experience of people with LD using acute general hospitals based on the GAIN Guidelines "Caring for people with a learning disability in general hospital settings" (DHSSPS) | GREEN | Following an RQIA review of the care of people with a learning disability in acute hospitals, the HSCB and PHA are implementing the findings. A forum has been established to prioritise and take forward this work. Key activities undertaken to date include a scoping exercise across HSC Trusts to establish progress against the recommendations within the GAIN Guidelines and the development of a draft Regional Hospital Passport. |
| 58 | Implement a regional Bed Management Protocol for those with a learning disability. (DHSSPS) | AMBER | A draft Bed Management Protocol for those with a Learning Disability has been drawn up and is awaiting agreement by Trusts. |
| 74 | Ensure relevant Inter-Departmental and cross sectoral structures are maintained (DHSSPS) | GREEN | The Bamford Inter Departmental Senior Officials Group meets every 6 months, with the last meeting held on 3 November. The Evaluation of the 2012 - 2015 Action Plan is currently underway and expected by Spring 2016. |
| 75 | Sponsor work on cross-cutting issues, involving the relevant agencies at local level along with service users and their carers. (DHSSPS) | GREEN | DHSSPS, with the assistance of PCC and BMG, have undertaken a number of focus groups with service users, carers and involving community/voluntary sector. A questionnaire has been developed for carers of people with a LD as part of the Bamford Evaluation, which covers health, education, post-school provision, transport. |
| 76 | New mental capacity legislation | AMBER | Consultation summary report was published in February 2015. Final draft of Bill completed on 9 March 2015. Bill introduced on 8 June 2015. Bill timetable still allows for Royal Assent by the end of the current mandate. Commencement date to be confirmed, subject to progress on implementation arrangements, |
(i) Information on activity within the Learning Disability Programme of Care (POC) is collected by the Department using a series of statistical returns provided by Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts and the HSC Board. Data providers are supplied with technical guidance documents outlining the methodologies to be used in the collection, reporting and validation of each statistical return submitted to the Department.
For each statistical information return data providers are given a set period of time to submit the information. Following submission, the Department carries out a number of validation checks to verify that the information is consistent both within and across information returns. At the end of each financial year a more detailed set of validations is carried out to ensure the information is up to date and reflects changes made over time.
Additional information is also compiled on persons with learning disabilities as part of the Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF). This data is compiled by GP practices and securely uploaded to the Payments, Calculation and Analysis System (PCAS) on 31 March each year. It is then automatically processed to establish performance against the QOF indicators and the associated points and payments that come from this. GP practices have a three month window during which they can query the results. Once all data has been signed off by GP practices, the Department downloads it from the PCAS system.
(ii) Data received by the Department is then stored on a secure file management system, with access restricted in line with existing Departmental arrangements.
(iii) Data released by the Department will be aggregated up to hospital, Local Commissioning Group, HSC Trust and/or Northern Ireland level, and will be treated for confidentiality to avoid personal disclosure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051769%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251831","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251831"}},{"id":"251828","reference":"AQW 51766/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-01","answerBy":"2015-12-16","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the process by which needs assessments are carried out for people with learning disabilities; and (ii) how this information is used to plan for their needs in the immediate and longer term.","answerText":"(i) A person with a Learning Disability can ask for an assessment of their health and social care needs, however the majority of those with a Learning Disability have been involved with the HSC from childhood and an assessment of their needs will have been carried out regularly and reviewed on an annual basis.\n\nTo allow young people with a Learning Disability prepare for adult life, a Transition process starts from the age of 14, led by the Department of Education with Health and Social Care input. Between the age of 18 and 21 the Transition from HSC Children Services to Adult Services is completed. At this stage a full multi-disciplinary assessment of needs of the individual and their carer/family is undertaken and agreed with them.\n\n(ii) Once the assessment of need is completed, a Care Plan and support package is agreed by the multi-professional staff, the person with a Learning Disability and their carer/family. This Care Plan will outline how the individual’s required needs will be met in the immediate and longer term and will be reviewed annually by the individual’s key worker and all the people and agencies involved in delivering the package of care.","answerHtml":"(i) A person with a Learning Disability can ask for an assessment of their health and social care needs, however the majority of those with a Learning Disability have been involved with the HSC from childhood and an assessment of their needs will have been carried out regularly and reviewed on an annual basis.
To allow young people with a Learning Disability prepare for adult life, a Transition process starts from the age of 14, led by the Department of Education with Health and Social Care input. Between the age of 18 and 21 the Transition from HSC Children Services to Adult Services is completed. At this stage a full multi-disciplinary assessment of needs of the individual and their carer/family is undertaken and agreed with them.
(ii) Once the assessment of need is completed, a Care Plan and support package is agreed by the multi-professional staff, the person with a Learning Disability and their carer/family. This Care Plan will outline how the individual’s required needs will be met in the immediate and longer term and will be reviewed annually by the individual’s key worker and all the people and agencies involved in delivering the package of care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051766%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251828"}},{"id":"251825","reference":"AQW 51764/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-01","answerBy":"2015-12-16","answered":"2016-03-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how his Department encourages adults that have learning disabilities to live independently through (i) appropriate accommodation; (ii) day care and day centre facilities; and (iii) other support services.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, people with a learning disability are supported to live as independently as possible. The services and support provided depend on individual circumstances and require an assessment of individual needs. Services such as assessment and treatment, community living, respite or short breaks and day opportunities are provided by local Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts.\n\n(i) Appropriate Accommodation\n\nPeople with a learning disability have a number of options on where they choose to live including with parents, families, in their own home (with support), supported living schemes or residential facilities. HSC Trusts continue to offer support to adults with a learning disability wherever they choose to live. Access to these services requires a referral from one of the HSC Trust’s Learning Disability Multi-Disciplinary Teams who will assess the individual’s needs.\n\n(ii)Day Care and Day Centre Facilities\n\nThe HSC Trusts provide a range of day opportunities for adults with a learning disability. These include services delivered in Day Centres and through contracts with a range of voluntary and private sector providers. Activities include Accredited Courses, such as ASDAN, arts and crafts, community based activities, health and leisure and access to statutory Further Education or Training provision. These opportunities are offered to young people leaving school, people leaving hospital and those already living in the community.\n\n(iii)Other Support Services\n\nSome people with a Learning Disability may not need HSC assistance but for those who do, a range of services are available. The HSC Trusts assist adults with a learning disability to have control over their own lives and the support they receive, enabling them to live healthy and active lives, thereby maximising their potential. Services are provided in a range of community and residential settings by multi-disciplinary teams which include Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Learning Disability Nurses, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists and Physiotherapists. Healthcare support includes Directed Enhanced Services in primary care (involving regular health checks from general practices and advice/support from health facilitators). Short breaks (respite) are also important to provide short term breaks for both adults with a learning disability and their carers. A range of short breaks are available, provided either directly by the HSC Trust or through contracts with voluntary and private providers.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, people with a learning disability are supported to live as independently as possible. The services and support provided depend on individual circumstances and require an assessment of individual needs. Services such as assessment and treatment, community living, respite or short breaks and day opportunities are provided by local Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts.
(i) Appropriate Accommodation
People with a learning disability have a number of options on where they choose to live including with parents, families, in their own home (with support), supported living schemes or residential facilities. HSC Trusts continue to offer support to adults with a learning disability wherever they choose to live. Access to these services requires a referral from one of the HSC Trust’s Learning Disability Multi-Disciplinary Teams who will assess the individual’s needs.
(ii)Day Care and Day Centre Facilities
The HSC Trusts provide a range of day opportunities for adults with a learning disability. These include services delivered in Day Centres and through contracts with a range of voluntary and private sector providers. Activities include Accredited Courses, such as ASDAN, arts and crafts, community based activities, health and leisure and access to statutory Further Education or Training provision. These opportunities are offered to young people leaving school, people leaving hospital and those already living in the community.
(iii)Other Support Services
Some people with a Learning Disability may not need HSC assistance but for those who do, a range of services are available. The HSC Trusts assist adults with a learning disability to have control over their own lives and the support they receive, enabling them to live healthy and active lives, thereby maximising their potential. Services are provided in a range of community and residential settings by multi-disciplinary teams which include Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Learning Disability Nurses, Social Workers, Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Therapists and Physiotherapists. Healthcare support includes Directed Enhanced Services in primary care (involving regular health checks from general practices and advice/support from health facilitators). Short breaks (respite) are also important to provide short term breaks for both adults with a learning disability and their carers. A range of short breaks are available, provided either directly by the HSC Trust or through contracts with voluntary and private providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051764%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251825"}},{"id":"251705","reference":"AQW 51719/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-12-01","answerBy":"2015-12-04","answered":"2015-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what discussions he has had with the PSNI regarding the recent security alerts in rural areas of the North West.","answerText":"I have regular discussions with the PSNI on security related matters. I last met the Chief Constable on 24 November. A further meeting is arranged for 10 December.","answerHtml":"I have regular discussions with the PSNI on security related matters. I last met the Chief Constable on 24 November. A further meeting is arranged for 10 December.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051719%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251705"}},{"id":"251597","reference":"AQW 51667/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-30","answerBy":"2015-12-15","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail (i) the process for having a building listed on the Built Heritage at Risk register; (ii) the categories of need which exist within the Register; and (iii) the qualifying criteria for each category.","answerText":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.\n\nRecognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.\n\nThe Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.\n\nSince 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.\n\nMy Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.\n\nIn the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:\n\nA. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.\n\nB. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nC. Slow decay; no solution agreed.\n\nD. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nE. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).\n\nF. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nBuildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.\n\nThe register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.\n\nThe Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.","answerHtml":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.
Recognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
The Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.
Since 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.
My Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.
In the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:
A. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.
B. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
C. Slow decay; no solution agreed.
D. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
E. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).
F. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.
Buildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.
The register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.
The Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051667%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251597","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251597"}},{"id":"251595","reference":"AQW 51665/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-30","answerBy":"2015-12-15","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment (i) what plans he has to reinstate his Department’s funding for built heritage restoration projects; and (ii) when he will make the Built Heritage at Risk register available to view on his Department’s website.","answerText":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.\n\nRecognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.\n\nThe Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.\n\nSince 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.\n\nMy Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.\n\nIn the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:\n\nA. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.\n\nB. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nC. Slow decay; no solution agreed.\n\nD. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nE. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).\n\nF. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nBuildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.\n\nThe register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.\n\nThe Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.","answerHtml":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.
Recognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
The Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.
Since 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.
My Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.
In the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:
A. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.
B. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
C. Slow decay; no solution agreed.
D. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
E. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).
F. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.
Buildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.
The register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.
The Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051665%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251595"}},{"id":"251594","reference":"AQW 51664/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-30","answerBy":"2015-12-15","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what priority his Department gives to buildings which are listed on the Built Heritage at Risk register and which are also homes that are currently lived in.","answerText":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.\n\nRecognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.\n\nThe Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.\n\nSince 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.\n\nMy Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.\n\nIn the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:\n\nA. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.\n\nB. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nC. Slow decay; no solution agreed.\n\nD. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nE. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).\n\nF. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nBuildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.\n\nThe register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.\n\nThe Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.","answerHtml":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.
Recognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
The Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.
Since 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.
My Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.
In the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:
A. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.
B. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
C. Slow decay; no solution agreed.
D. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
E. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).
F. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.
Buildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.
The register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.
The Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051664%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251594"}},{"id":"251593","reference":"AQW 51663/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-30","answerBy":"2015-12-15","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment whether his Department is on track to meet the targets of (i) saving 200 buildings which are on the Building Heritage at Risk register, by 2016; and (ii) completing the second survey for the statutory listing of buildings, by 2020.","answerText":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.\n\nRecognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.\n\nThe Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.\n\nSince 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.\n\nMy Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.\n\nIn the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:\n\nA. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.\n\nB. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nC. Slow decay; no solution agreed.\n\nD. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nE. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).\n\nF. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nBuildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.\n\nThe register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.\n\nThe Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.","answerHtml":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.
Recognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
The Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.
Since 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.
My Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.
In the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:
A. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.
B. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
C. Slow decay; no solution agreed.
D. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
E. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).
F. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.
Buildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.
The register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.
The Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051663%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251593"}},{"id":"251592","reference":"AQW 51662/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-30","answerBy":"2015-12-15","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment how many buildings are listed on the Built Heritage at Risk register; and how many of theses homes are currently lived in.","answerText":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.\n\nRecognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.\n\nThe Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.\n\nSince 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.\n\nMy Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.\n\nIn the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:\n\nA. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.\n\nB. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nC. Slow decay; no solution agreed.\n\nD. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nE. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).\n\nF. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.\n\nBuildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.\n\nThe register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.\n\nThe Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.","answerHtml":"I have shown significant commitment to supporting the historic environment. Despite the significant budget cut of 10.4%, the most severe cut imposed on any Department, I have been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use.
Recognising the particular difficulties caused in the 2015-16 Executive budget for my Department, I also submitted a bid for Built Heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, but this was not successful. The financial constraints imposed by the 2015-16 budget mean, however, that I am currently unable to provide extra funding for listed building grant-aid. My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
The Built Heritage at Risk register (BHARNI) has proved a valuable mechanism by which to identify buildings at risk, and to seek to focus effort on preserving them. There are currently 496 structures on the BHARNI; of these 199 are houses. Of the houses on the register, one is recorded as being fully occupied, and nine are recorded as being partially occupied. The remainder are recorded as being unoccupied.
Since 2006, 189 buildings have been removed from BHARNI, a very significant achievement due to the efforts of many individuals and organisations. The target of 200 buildings being removed from the register by 2016 was put in place in 2006, before the recession and its very significant impacts on the property market. My Department continues to work with owners and others to protect buildings which remain on the register, within the context that primary responsibility for the maintenance of any building rests with its owners.
My Department has recently agreed with the Ulster Architectural Heritage Society, which maintains the BHARNI register on behalf of my Department, for the Society to complete a review of this work over the last ten years, with the review to include recommendations on whether and, if so how, the register should be taken forward. I anticipate this review being completed in the first half of 2016, then allowing decisions on the place that the register has in the continuing, collaborative efforts to realise the value of our historic environment.
In the meantime, buildings can be proposed for adding to the register if they are vacant with no identified new use; suffering from neglect and/or poor maintenance; suffering from structural problems; fire damaged; unsecured and open to the elements; or threatened with demolition. The decision of whether to add a building to the register is made by my Department taking account of professional advice. My Department also assigns an identifier to each building listed on the register, as follows:
A. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; no solution agreed.
B. Immediate risk of further rapid deterioration or loss of fabric; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
C. Slow decay; no solution agreed.
D. Slow decay; solution agreed but not yet implemented.
E. Under repair or in fair to good repair, but no user identified; or under threat of vacancy with no obvious new user (applicable only to buildings capable of beneficial use).
F. Repair scheme in progress and (where applicable) end use or user identified; functionally redundant buildings with new use agreed but not yet implemented.
Buildings are removed from the Register when they are fully repaired/ consolidated, their future secured, and where appropriate, occupied or in use.
The register will be back online, following IT work, on 14 December 2015.
The Second Survey of Buildings of Architectural and Historic Interest is another significant project being progressed by my Department to identify and designate buildings to ensure that they are appropriately considered when determining planning applications and the like. The cuts to my Department’s budget for 2015-16 have also impacted progress on the survey, as they led to the termination of an external contract to survey buildings. My officials have developed proposals to target work to address key risks by 2020, within a potentially extended timeframe for the survey given the current uncertainties about future budget provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051662%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251592"}},{"id":"251456","reference":"AQW 51586/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-27","answerBy":"2015-12-14","answered":"2016-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the community benefit aspect that forms part of the set criteria outlined for the preferred proposal for the sale of the Shackleton site at Ballykelly.","answerText":"We are keen to ensure that the community in Ballykelly and the surrounding area benefit from the development of the Shackleton site. For this reason, proposals to purchase the Site are being assessed on the extent to which their plans to develop the Site will deliver community benefits.\n\nIt would be inappropriate to comment on the specific community benefits proposed in any of the proposals until the assessment process has concluded.","answerHtml":"We are keen to ensure that the community in Ballykelly and the surrounding area benefit from the development of the Shackleton site. For this reason, proposals to purchase the Site are being assessed on the extent to which their plans to develop the Site will deliver community benefits.
It would be inappropriate to comment on the specific community benefits proposed in any of the proposals until the assessment process has concluded.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051586%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251456","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251456"}},{"id":"251455","reference":"AQW 51585/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-27","answerBy":"2015-12-14","answered":"2016-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail how he is working with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in regards to the Rural White Paper Action Plan which aims to understand the cause of, and reduce the number of, collisions on rural roads.","answerText":"My Department maintains a close working relationship with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) across a number of areas of mutual interest, such as progressing implementation of the Rural White Paper Action Plan.\n\nDOE is the lead Department for a number of actions. This includes actions relevant to my responsibilities for climate change, waste management, planning policy, and road safety. Progress against my Department’s actions is collated and submitted to DARD each year for reporting on key achievements in relation to implementation of actions during the preceding year. DARD then prepares and publishes an Annual Progress Report which is posted on its website.\n\nIn relation to road safety, I can advise that Action 81 from the Rural White Paper Action Plan commits my Department to better understand the cause of collisions on rural roads and to reduce their number.\n\nAs such, my Department has established a road safety research programme, involving road safety partners, to help identify emerging trends and provide a sound knowledge base for developing future policies. Much of the research carried out will have a rural element.\n\nThe development and introduction of Graduated Driving Licence (GDL) is in line with the aims of the Rural White Paper Action Plan and has the potential to make a significant contribution to the reduction of deaths and serious injuries on rural roads and indeed Northern Ireland as a whole.\n\nFurthermore, campaigns developed by my Department focus heavily on rural areas and almost every campaign produced features many different types of road safety problems in a rural setting. The recent social media campaign, which I launched on 11 December, also has a rural context and it is an anti drink driving message which reinforces the need for motorists to ‘Never Ever Drink and Drive’. Research shows that younger males are most at risk from drink driving and this campaign stresses the impairing effects of alcohol on driving, even from the first drink.","answerHtml":"My Department maintains a close working relationship with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) across a number of areas of mutual interest, such as progressing implementation of the Rural White Paper Action Plan.
DOE is the lead Department for a number of actions. This includes actions relevant to my responsibilities for climate change, waste management, planning policy, and road safety. Progress against my Department’s actions is collated and submitted to DARD each year for reporting on key achievements in relation to implementation of actions during the preceding year. DARD then prepares and publishes an Annual Progress Report which is posted on its website.
In relation to road safety, I can advise that Action 81 from the Rural White Paper Action Plan commits my Department to better understand the cause of collisions on rural roads and to reduce their number.
As such, my Department has established a road safety research programme, involving road safety partners, to help identify emerging trends and provide a sound knowledge base for developing future policies. Much of the research carried out will have a rural element.
The development and introduction of Graduated Driving Licence (GDL) is in line with the aims of the Rural White Paper Action Plan and has the potential to make a significant contribution to the reduction of deaths and serious injuries on rural roads and indeed Northern Ireland as a whole.
Furthermore, campaigns developed by my Department focus heavily on rural areas and almost every campaign produced features many different types of road safety problems in a rural setting. The recent social media campaign, which I launched on 11 December, also has a rural context and it is an anti drink driving message which reinforces the need for motorists to ‘Never Ever Drink and Drive’. Research shows that younger males are most at risk from drink driving and this campaign stresses the impairing effects of alcohol on driving, even from the first drink.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051585%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251455","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251455"}},{"id":"251454","reference":"AQW 51584/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-27","answerBy":"2015-12-14","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what discussions he has had with Four Seasons Health Care regarding their future plans for the provision of care.","answerText":"Officials in the Health and Social Care Board have been engaging in discussions with Four Seasons Health Care about the impact of the closures of the seven nursing homes.","answerHtml":"Officials in the Health and Social Care Board have been engaging in discussions with Four Seasons Health Care about the impact of the closures of the seven nursing homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051584%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251454","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251454"}},{"id":"251453","reference":"AQW 51583/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-27","answerBy":"2015-12-14","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for his assessment of the role of classroom assistants; and (ii) to detail the number of (a) primary; and (b) post-primary school classroom assistants in schools in East Londonderry, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"I remain fully committed to ensuring that all pupils receive the educational support that is necessary to ensure they are able to reach their full potential. When used effectively, classroom assistants support children in addressing barriers to learning, and support the teaching and learning. For some children and young people, classroom assistants play an important role in the meeting of their special educational needs.\n\nThe statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with special educational needs (SEN), such as the provision of a classroom assistant, rests with schools and the Education Authority which is responsible under special education legislation for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN.\n\n(ii) The number of classroom assistants (head count) employed in primary and post-primary schools in East Derry in each of the last five years is as outlined in the table below.\n\nPhase/Year\t2010/11\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\nPrimary\t262\t258\t260\t259\t281\nPost-Primary\t87\t84\t83\t97\t106\nTotal\t349\t342\t343\t356\t387\n\nThe data above includes classroom assistants employed in voluntary grammar (VG) and grant maintained integrated (GMI) schools taken from my Department’s ‘Annual Survey of all Support Staff in VG and GMI Schools’, all other data was provided by the Education Authority.","answerHtml":"I remain fully committed to ensuring that all pupils receive the educational support that is necessary to ensure they are able to reach their full potential. When used effectively, classroom assistants support children in addressing barriers to learning, and support the teaching and learning. For some children and young people, classroom assistants play an important role in the meeting of their special educational needs.
The statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with special educational needs (SEN), such as the provision of a classroom assistant, rests with schools and the Education Authority which is responsible under special education legislation for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN.
(ii) The number of classroom assistants (head count) employed in primary and post-primary schools in East Derry in each of the last five years is as outlined in the table below.
| Phase/Year | 2010/11 | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 |
| Primary | 262 | 258 | 260 | 259 | 281 |
| Post-Primary | 87 | 84 | 83 | 97 | 106 |
| Total | 349 | 342 | 343 | 356 | 387 |
The data above includes classroom assistants employed in voluntary grammar (VG) and grant maintained integrated (GMI) schools taken from my Department’s ‘Annual Survey of all Support Staff in VG and GMI Schools’, all other data was provided by the Education Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051583%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251453","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251453"}},{"id":"251452","reference":"AQW 51582/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-27","answerBy":"2015-12-14","answered":"2015-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how much funding his Department has allocated to special education in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The table below provides the total departmental spend on special education in each of the last five years.\n\n2010-11 £m\t2011-12 £m\t2012-13 £m\t2013-14 £m\t2014-15 £m\nTotal\t202\t196\t214\t231\t242*\n\n* the 2014-15 Resource Accounts for the ELBs are yet to be finalised and as such may be subject to change.\n\nThe above figures include spend on statemented pupils in mainstream schools, pupils in special schools and home to school transport for statmented pupils attending primary, post-primary and special schools. The table also includes funding provided for Middletown Centre for Autism and a number of capacity-building initiatives within the Review of SEN and Inclusion.\n\nSchools are also responsible for meeting any additional needs of pupils within the first three stages of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN. Such funding is not separately identified from within the overall delegated budget distributed to schools, nor is it separately reported on. The level of spend by schools for such pupils cannot be disaggregated from the schools’ overall expenditure.","answerHtml":"The table below provides the total departmental spend on special education in each of the last five years.
| 2010-11 £m | 2011-12 £m | 2012-13 £m | 2013-14 £m | 2014-15 £m | |
| Total | 202 | 196 | 214 | 231 | 242* |
* the 2014-15 Resource Accounts for the ELBs are yet to be finalised and as such may be subject to change.
The above figures include spend on statemented pupils in mainstream schools, pupils in special schools and home to school transport for statmented pupils attending primary, post-primary and special schools. The table also includes funding provided for Middletown Centre for Autism and a number of capacity-building initiatives within the Review of SEN and Inclusion.
Schools are also responsible for meeting any additional needs of pupils within the first three stages of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN. Such funding is not separately identified from within the overall delegated budget distributed to schools, nor is it separately reported on. The level of spend by schools for such pupils cannot be disaggregated from the schools’ overall expenditure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051582%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251452","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251452"}},{"id":"251195","reference":"AQW 51508/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-26","answerBy":"2015-12-11","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the £5m of additional funding for special educational needs received in the November monitoring round will be spent.","answerText":"I have allocated the additional £5m, which I secured as part of the November monitoring round, to the Education Authority via their block grant. This additional funding will assist the Education Authority to address in-year pressures in the provision of Special Education Needs in both mainstream and special schools.","answerHtml":"I have allocated the additional £5m, which I secured as part of the November monitoring round, to the Education Authority via their block grant. This additional funding will assist the Education Authority to address in-year pressures in the provision of Special Education Needs in both mainstream and special schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051508%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251195"}},{"id":"251192","reference":"AQW 51507/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-26","answerBy":"2015-12-11","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 49611/11-16, (i) for a breakdown of how they intend to spend the remainder of the Executive’s Childcare Fund; (ii) whether they have any plans for expenditure outside the Bright Start programme; and (iii) for a timeframe for expenditure.","answerText":"To date £4.2 million has been spent out of the Executive’s Childcare Fund. It has been agreed that the balance of the childcare fund should be used to resource the Key First Actions contained in the initial phase of the Childcare Strategy. The Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme was launched on 27 March 2014 and the letters of offer issued to childcare settings are for a three year period. There have been two rounds of Bright Start funding to date with £3m already committed under the scheme; a third round of funding opened for applications on 26 November. It is anticipated that Bright Start funding will continue until 2018/19.\n\nOther Key First Actions have enhanced childcare services for children with a disability and improved the information available to parents on the childcare services available locally.","answerHtml":"To date £4.2 million has been spent out of the Executive’s Childcare Fund. It has been agreed that the balance of the childcare fund should be used to resource the Key First Actions contained in the initial phase of the Childcare Strategy. The Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme was launched on 27 March 2014 and the letters of offer issued to childcare settings are for a three year period. There have been two rounds of Bright Start funding to date with £3m already committed under the scheme; a third round of funding opened for applications on 26 November. It is anticipated that Bright Start funding will continue until 2018/19.
Other Key First Actions have enhanced childcare services for children with a disability and improved the information available to parents on the childcare services available locally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051507%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251192"}},{"id":"251158","reference":"AQW 51495/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-26","answerBy":"2015-12-11","answered":"2015-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for a timescale on the repair of street lights in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.","answerText":"My Department is currently increasing routine maintenance operations, as a result of the Executive decision to prioritise funding for this area in the recent monitoring round. This funding will deliver enhanced levels of service. My Department is working to ensure the public can see the difference made as quickly as possible but would ask for understanding that it will take some time before the entire backlog will be cleared.\n\nThe measured term street lighting contractor has two fully equipped maintenance teams currently repairing street lights across the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area.\n\nMy Department aims to repair the majority of the lights that it is aware of by Christmas. However, given the scale of the current backlog of outages, it may be that some lights will not be fully operational until early January 2016.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently increasing routine maintenance operations, as a result of the Executive decision to prioritise funding for this area in the recent monitoring round. This funding will deliver enhanced levels of service. My Department is working to ensure the public can see the difference made as quickly as possible but would ask for understanding that it will take some time before the entire backlog will be cleared.
The measured term street lighting contractor has two fully equipped maintenance teams currently repairing street lights across the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area.
My Department aims to repair the majority of the lights that it is aware of by Christmas. However, given the scale of the current backlog of outages, it may be that some lights will not be fully operational until early January 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051495%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251158"}},{"id":"251156","reference":"AQW 51494/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-26","answerBy":"2015-12-11","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the Enterprise Zone in Coleraine.","answerText":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out three commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs), which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer ECAs as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering ECAs is ultimately for HM Treasury.\n\nHMT is currently considering a request for formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone and it is anticipated that designation will be progressed in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out three commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs), which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer ECAs as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering ECAs is ultimately for HM Treasury.
HMT is currently considering a request for formal designation of the pilot Enterprise Zone and it is anticipated that designation will be progressed in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051494%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251156","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251156"}},{"id":"251152","reference":"AQW 51492/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-26","answerBy":"2015-12-11","answered":"2015-12-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what assistance her Department can offer farmers to develop business plans to maximise rural development funding potential.","answerText":"Through the Knowledge Transfer element of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS), under the Rural Development Programme (RDP), Business Development Groups (BDGs) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) will provide free business training programmes to assist farmers complete business plans.\n\nFarmers applying for grant to set up a new non agricultural enterprise through the Rural Business Investment Scheme (RBIS) will be able to avail of free training and assistance to develop their business plan through the ‘Go for It’ Programme which is run by Councils","answerHtml":"Through the Knowledge Transfer element of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS), under the Rural Development Programme (RDP), Business Development Groups (BDGs) and Farm Family Key Skills (FFKS) will provide free business training programmes to assist farmers complete business plans.
Farmers applying for grant to set up a new non agricultural enterprise through the Rural Business Investment Scheme (RBIS) will be able to avail of free training and assistance to develop their business plan through the ‘Go for It’ Programme which is run by Councils
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051492%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=251152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=251152"}},{"id":"250981","reference":"AQW 51431/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-25","answerBy":"2015-12-10","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Bright Start Grant Scheme, including when the application process for further funding is expected to open.","answerText":"Key First Actions 1, 2 and 5 of the first phase of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy aim to create or sustain school age childcare places. The Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme was launched in March 2014 and delivers on these actions. A first call for applications to the Grant Scheme took place in May 2014 and a second call for applications occurred in September 2014. Through the first two calls 79 childcare settings applications were approved representing funding of some £3 million to create or sustain over 2,200 places. A third round of funding opened on 26 November 2015 and will close on 29 January 2016.","answerHtml":"Key First Actions 1, 2 and 5 of the first phase of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy aim to create or sustain school age childcare places. The Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme was launched in March 2014 and delivers on these actions. A first call for applications to the Grant Scheme took place in May 2014 and a second call for applications occurred in September 2014. Through the first two calls 79 childcare settings applications were approved representing funding of some £3 million to create or sustain over 2,200 places. A third round of funding opened on 26 November 2015 and will close on 29 January 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051431%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250981","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250981"}},{"id":"250979","reference":"AQW 51430/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-25","answerBy":"2015-12-10","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) what oversight his Department has for the provision of care by privately owned care homes; and (ii) for his assessment of the extent to which the provision of care within care homes is dependent upon private care providers.","answerText":"(i) The Department sets and publishes minimum care standards for nursing and residential care homes, including privately owned care homes. These standards set the benchmark for the quality of care that residents can expect to receive and which no provider is expected to fall below in delivering such care. The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority is responsible for registering and inspecting nursing and residential care homes, including privately owned homes, to ensure homes comply with the regulations and standards set by the Department.\n\n(ii) The care home sector in Northern Ireland is based on a “mixed economy of care” model in which the private sector plays a key role alongside statutory care providers. The private sector makes an important contribution to providing high quality care to older people across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"(i) The Department sets and publishes minimum care standards for nursing and residential care homes, including privately owned care homes. These standards set the benchmark for the quality of care that residents can expect to receive and which no provider is expected to fall below in delivering such care. The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority is responsible for registering and inspecting nursing and residential care homes, including privately owned homes, to ensure homes comply with the regulations and standards set by the Department.
(ii) The care home sector in Northern Ireland is based on a “mixed economy of care” model in which the private sector plays a key role alongside statutory care providers. The private sector makes an important contribution to providing high quality care to older people across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051430%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250979"}},{"id":"250974","reference":"AQW 51429/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-25","answerBy":"2015-12-10","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the spare capacity within (i) private; and (ii) statutory care homes since January 2015.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board monitors the residential and nursing home vacancy position on a six monthly basis. The vacancy position in the two most recent reports for independent and statutory sector beds across all programmes of care is set out in the table below:\n\nTrust declared vacancies\tStatutory sector vacancies\tIndependent sector vacancies\tTotal\n31March 2015\t128\t849\t977\n30 September 2015\t154\t657\t811","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board monitors the residential and nursing home vacancy position on a six monthly basis. The vacancy position in the two most recent reports for independent and statutory sector beds across all programmes of care is set out in the table below:
| Trust declared vacancies | Statutory sector vacancies | Independent sector vacancies | Total |
| 31March 2015 | 128 | 849 | 977 |
| 30 September 2015 | 154 | 657 | 811 |
Domiciliary care staff across the health and social care sector are paid at Agenda for Change (AfC) Band 2 and Band 3 rates. The pay point is dependent on the individual’s length of service. For example, for Band 2, pay point 1 the hourly rate equals £7.31 and for Band 2, pay point 6 it equals £8.91 (based on 2014/15 AfC pay award). These rates exceed those proposed in relation to the new National Living Wage effective April 2016.
I cannot comment on the hourly rate paid to staff employed by independent domiciliary care providers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051428%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250968","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250968"}},{"id":"250966","reference":"AQW 51427/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-25","answerBy":"2015-12-10","answered":"2016-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the (a) number of qualified staff nurses; (b) number of staff nurses on permanent and temporary contracts; (c) number of staff nurses that are bank staff; and (d) capacity of nursing staff to meet the demands of private and statutory care provision.","answerText":"At 31st September 2015 there were 16,949 (14,724.9 WTE) qualified nurses and midwives employed by the HSC, which is an increase of 7.9% compared with March 2011. Of these, 96.7% were employed on a permanent contract and 3.3% worked on a temporary contract.\n\nThe number of nurses on a working bank contract is not centrally available. The use of bank nurses is necessary to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained for patients.\n\nThe question of capacity of nursing staff to meet the demands of private and statutory care provision is one for those employers.","answerHtml":"At 31st September 2015 there were 16,949 (14,724.9 WTE) qualified nurses and midwives employed by the HSC, which is an increase of 7.9% compared with March 2011. Of these, 96.7% were employed on a permanent contract and 3.3% worked on a temporary contract.
The number of nurses on a working bank contract is not centrally available. The use of bank nurses is necessary to ensure that safe and effective services are sustained for patients.
The question of capacity of nursing staff to meet the demands of private and statutory care provision is one for those employers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051427%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250966","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250966"}},{"id":"250709","reference":"AQW 51356/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-24","answerBy":"2015-12-09","answered":"2015-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail (i) how his Department supports the preservation of built heritage; (ii) the criteria for accessing support; (iii) how home owners can avail of support; and (iv) whether he intends to increase the support available in the future.","answerText":"My Department has for many years provided a range of support and advice with regard to the conservation of heritage building and structures. Area architects, for instance, provide a range of advice on a daily basis to property owners and others, alongside providing consultation responses to planning authorities on planning applications. This advice is available when owners of heritage buildings contact my Department, or when my officials identify a particular need.\n\nOne element of this support has been grant-aid to contribute to the costs of repairing and conserving listed buildings. My Department’s listed building grant-aid scheme has since the mid 1980s provided support at an enhanced rate of 75% for thatched roof repairs, recognising that this category of building faces substantial conservation costs and requires frequent maintenance.\n\nYou will be aware of the severe budget cuts imposed on my Department. Under the final Budget for 2015-16, its budget was reduced by 10.7%, the highest percentage reduction of any Department. I highlighted in my Department’s budget consultation document that these cuts would have immediate and significant implications for a wide range of voluntary, educational and private sector bodies, and the termination of a range of key environmental and built heritage programmes. To help address this, I submitted a bid for built heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, which was not acceded to by the Executive. Despite these reductions, I have however, been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use. Privately owned buildings are unable to avail of this particular strand of support, and the extent of the budget cuts has meant that I have not been able to offer other listed building grant-aid this year.\n\nIn respect of the specific grant-aid element of the broad mix of support and advice that I have outlined, the criteria for accessing support are that the listed building must be of an eligible grade and that generally, grant-aid assistance is provided towards the repair and maintenance of the original fabric of historic listed buildings, where it can be demonstrated that the works are necessary. Normally the qualifying elements of work will be: roofs and chimneys; external walls windows and doors; damp-proofing and timber treatment; floors; joinery; plasterwork, and land drainage (around the property only). This list is not exhaustive.\n\nHomeowners have been able to avail of this support by making a formal application for listed building grant-aid; however this is currently only available to assist with repairs and maintenance in some buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including listed churches.\n\nMy officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then fall to be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.","answerHtml":"My Department has for many years provided a range of support and advice with regard to the conservation of heritage building and structures. Area architects, for instance, provide a range of advice on a daily basis to property owners and others, alongside providing consultation responses to planning authorities on planning applications. This advice is available when owners of heritage buildings contact my Department, or when my officials identify a particular need.
One element of this support has been grant-aid to contribute to the costs of repairing and conserving listed buildings. My Department’s listed building grant-aid scheme has since the mid 1980s provided support at an enhanced rate of 75% for thatched roof repairs, recognising that this category of building faces substantial conservation costs and requires frequent maintenance.
You will be aware of the severe budget cuts imposed on my Department. Under the final Budget for 2015-16, its budget was reduced by 10.7%, the highest percentage reduction of any Department. I highlighted in my Department’s budget consultation document that these cuts would have immediate and significant implications for a wide range of voluntary, educational and private sector bodies, and the termination of a range of key environmental and built heritage programmes. To help address this, I submitted a bid for built heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, which was not acceded to by the Executive. Despite these reductions, I have however, been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use. Privately owned buildings are unable to avail of this particular strand of support, and the extent of the budget cuts has meant that I have not been able to offer other listed building grant-aid this year.
In respect of the specific grant-aid element of the broad mix of support and advice that I have outlined, the criteria for accessing support are that the listed building must be of an eligible grade and that generally, grant-aid assistance is provided towards the repair and maintenance of the original fabric of historic listed buildings, where it can be demonstrated that the works are necessary. Normally the qualifying elements of work will be: roofs and chimneys; external walls windows and doors; damp-proofing and timber treatment; floors; joinery; plasterwork, and land drainage (around the property only). This list is not exhaustive.
Homeowners have been able to avail of this support by making a formal application for listed building grant-aid; however this is currently only available to assist with repairs and maintenance in some buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including listed churches.
My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then fall to be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051356%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250709","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250709"}},{"id":"250708","reference":"AQW 51355/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-24","answerBy":"2015-12-09","answered":"2015-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what support his Department can offer towards the maintenance and preservation of thatched roofs.","answerText":"My Department has for many years provided a range of support and advice with regard to the conservation of heritage building and structures. Area architects, for instance, provide a range of advice on a daily basis to property owners and others, alongside providing consultation responses to planning authorities on planning applications. This advice is available when owners of heritage buildings contact my Department, or when my officials identify a particular need.\n\nOne element of this support has been grant-aid to contribute to the costs of repairing and conserving listed buildings. My Department’s listed building grant-aid scheme has since the mid 1980s provided support at an enhanced rate of 75% for thatched roof repairs, recognising that this category of building faces substantial conservation costs and requires frequent maintenance.\n\nYou will be aware of the severe budget cuts imposed on my Department. Under the final Budget for 2015-16, its budget was reduced by 10.7%, the highest percentage reduction of any Department. I highlighted in my Department’s budget consultation document that these cuts would have immediate and significant implications for a wide range of voluntary, educational and private sector bodies, and the termination of a range of key environmental and built heritage programmes. To help address this, I submitted a bid for built heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, which was not acceded to by the Executive. Despite these reductions, I have however, been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use. Privately owned buildings are unable to avail of this particular strand of support, and the extent of the budget cuts has meant that I have not been able to offer other listed building grant-aid this year.\n\nIn respect of the specific grant-aid element of the broad mix of support and advice that I have outlined, the criteria for accessing support are that the listed building must be of an eligible grade and that generally, grant-aid assistance is provided towards the repair and maintenance of the original fabric of historic listed buildings, where it can be demonstrated that the works are necessary. Normally the qualifying elements of work will be: roofs and chimneys; external walls windows and doors; damp-proofing and timber treatment; floors; joinery; plasterwork, and land drainage (around the property only). This list is not exhaustive.\n\nHomeowners have been able to avail of this support by making a formal application for listed building grant-aid; however this is currently only available to assist with repairs and maintenance in some buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including listed churches.\n\nMy officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then fall to be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.","answerHtml":"My Department has for many years provided a range of support and advice with regard to the conservation of heritage building and structures. Area architects, for instance, provide a range of advice on a daily basis to property owners and others, alongside providing consultation responses to planning authorities on planning applications. This advice is available when owners of heritage buildings contact my Department, or when my officials identify a particular need.
One element of this support has been grant-aid to contribute to the costs of repairing and conserving listed buildings. My Department’s listed building grant-aid scheme has since the mid 1980s provided support at an enhanced rate of 75% for thatched roof repairs, recognising that this category of building faces substantial conservation costs and requires frequent maintenance.
You will be aware of the severe budget cuts imposed on my Department. Under the final Budget for 2015-16, its budget was reduced by 10.7%, the highest percentage reduction of any Department. I highlighted in my Department’s budget consultation document that these cuts would have immediate and significant implications for a wide range of voluntary, educational and private sector bodies, and the termination of a range of key environmental and built heritage programmes. To help address this, I submitted a bid for built heritage funding in the 2015 June Monitoring Round, which was not acceded to by the Executive. Despite these reductions, I have however, been able to allocate £594,000 funding from the Carrier Bag Levy Scheme, to assist with repairs and maintenance of buildings that provide facilities for community access and use. Privately owned buildings are unable to avail of this particular strand of support, and the extent of the budget cuts has meant that I have not been able to offer other listed building grant-aid this year.
In respect of the specific grant-aid element of the broad mix of support and advice that I have outlined, the criteria for accessing support are that the listed building must be of an eligible grade and that generally, grant-aid assistance is provided towards the repair and maintenance of the original fabric of historic listed buildings, where it can be demonstrated that the works are necessary. Normally the qualifying elements of work will be: roofs and chimneys; external walls windows and doors; damp-proofing and timber treatment; floors; joinery; plasterwork, and land drainage (around the property only). This list is not exhaustive.
Homeowners have been able to avail of this support by making a formal application for listed building grant-aid; however this is currently only available to assist with repairs and maintenance in some buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including listed churches.
My officials are working on proposals for future support arrangements for heritage buildings and structures that recognise reduced budgets and focus on priority categories. I hope to publish draft proposals for comment early in the New Year. Any such arrangements will then fall to be considered within the overall budget available to Departments for 2016-17 and beyond.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051355%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250708"}},{"id":"250701","reference":"AQW 51351/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-24","answerBy":"2015-12-09","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the number of organisations funded; (ii) the types of activity undertaken; and (iii) whether he will increase the number of child care places available for children with a learning disability, under the Improving Outcomes for Children with a Disability initiative.","answerText":"In 2015/16, £54,000 was secured from OFMDFM to allow seven childcare providers to make available additional childcare places during the summer holiday period, specifically targeted at children with a disability. The funding covered staffing costs and facilitated a range of activities, including: physical play, communication and behavioural inputs, day trips, baby yoga, massage and sensory play, speech and drama, football, cookery, orienteering, skipping, arts and crafts, horse riding, team building games and archery.\n\nMy Department is currently considering its budget for the 2016/17 financial year.","answerHtml":"In 2015/16, £54,000 was secured from OFMDFM to allow seven childcare providers to make available additional childcare places during the summer holiday period, specifically targeted at children with a disability. The funding covered staffing costs and facilitated a range of activities, including: physical play, communication and behavioural inputs, day trips, baby yoga, massage and sensory play, speech and drama, football, cookery, orienteering, skipping, arts and crafts, horse riding, team building games and archery.
My Department is currently considering its budget for the 2016/17 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051351%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250701","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250701"}},{"id":"250668","reference":"AQW 51342/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-24","answerBy":"2015-12-09","answered":"2015-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the applications which have been received by Northern Ireland Electricity from prospective wind farms, for grid connection to the NIE Network’s electricity grid, in each of the last two years; and which of these applications have (i) been processed; and (ii) received a grid connection offer.","answerText":"The information requested is not kept by the Department. Information on generation connections is available on the NIE Networks website at http://www.nienetworks.co.uk/Connections/Generation-connections","answerHtml":"The information requested is not kept by the Department. Information on generation connections is available on the NIE Networks website at http://www.nienetworks.co.uk/Connections/Generation-connections
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051342%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250668","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250668"}},{"id":"250520","reference":"AQW 51277/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-23","answerBy":"2015-12-08","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the major infrastructure projects that are being considered that will enable Portrush and the surrounding area to maximise the opportunities which the Open Golf Championship will bring to the North Coast in 2019.","answerText":"The news that Royal Portrush Golf Club will host the Open Championship in 2019 presents huge opportunities not only for Portrush but also for the wider Northern Ireland economy. In order to realise this potential I have written too Executive colleagues asking them to consider approving funding for a major programme of regeneration work which includes:\n\nA new combined bus and rail facility.\n\nRedevelopment of Portrush harbour\n\nPublic Realm Improvements\n\nImprovements to parking and transportation\n\nRedevelopment of the recreation grounds\n\nAn Urban Development Grant and Revitalisation Programme.\n\nI have also recently announced funding of £1.5M for a public Realm scheme in Portstewart.","answerHtml":"The news that Royal Portrush Golf Club will host the Open Championship in 2019 presents huge opportunities not only for Portrush but also for the wider Northern Ireland economy. In order to realise this potential I have written too Executive colleagues asking them to consider approving funding for a major programme of regeneration work which includes:
A new combined bus and rail facility.
Redevelopment of Portrush harbour
Public Realm Improvements
Improvements to parking and transportation
Redevelopment of the recreation grounds
An Urban Development Grant and Revitalisation Programme.
I have also recently announced funding of £1.5M for a public Realm scheme in Portstewart.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051277%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250520"}},{"id":"250519","reference":"AQW 51276/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-23","answerBy":"2015-12-08","answered":"2015-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for a timeframe for the appointment of a Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The appointment process for a new Commissioner for Older People commenced on 16 November, with a closing date for applications of noon on Monday 7 December 2015. Interviews are scheduled to be held on 14, 15 and 18 January and an appointment will be made as soon as possible thereafter.","answerHtml":"The appointment process for a new Commissioner for Older People commenced on 16 November, with a closing date for applications of noon on Monday 7 December 2015. Interviews are scheduled to be held on 14, 15 and 18 January and an appointment will be made as soon as possible thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051276%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250519"}},{"id":"250518","reference":"AQW 51275/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-23","answerBy":"2015-12-08","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) his plans to review the costing structures for Adult Social Care across Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) whether the costing structures for Adult Social Care are needs based.","answerText":"My Department is currently taking forward a three stage process to reform adult care and support, which will set the future strategic direction for adult social care services. It will also look at how services are funded, with the aim of ensuring the adult care and support system of the future is fit for purpose, efficient and sustainable for years to come.\n\nAdult social care services are provided on the basis of assessed clinical need. Assessments of need for individuals require input from a range of multi-disciplinary professional and clinical staff. If a primary need for social care is identified and such need is met in a residential or nursing","answerHtml":"My Department is currently taking forward a three stage process to reform adult care and support, which will set the future strategic direction for adult social care services. It will also look at how services are funded, with the aim of ensuring the adult care and support system of the future is fit for purpose, efficient and sustainable for years to come.
Adult social care services are provided on the basis of assessed clinical need. Assessments of need for individuals require input from a range of multi-disciplinary professional and clinical staff. If a primary need for social care is identified and such need is met in a residential or nursing
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051275%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250518"}},{"id":"250517","reference":"AQW 51274/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-23","answerBy":"2015-12-08","answered":"2016-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether his Department gathers statistics regarding the unmet need for Adult Social Care (i) regionally; and (ii) by Health and Social Care Trust, in order to target resources.","answerText":"It is assumed that the term unmet need in the question refers to individuals in the population who require access to health services, but are unknown and subsequently have not been assessed for need.\n\nWhilst my Department does not explicitly collect statistics on unmet need it does make an adjustment to the Capitation model to take account of the level of need in the population. It does this by using costed activity/service utilisation, together with other information derived from population surveys and making adjustments for levels of deprivation. A comparison is made between the assessed need for each Super Output Area (SOA) and the corresponding deprivation score for each SOA and based on the results of this an unmet need adjustment is made if required. As activity relating to Adult Social Care transcends a number of Programmes of Care (POCs) the measure of unmet needs is dispersed across POCs and it is therefore difficult to provide a separate measure of unmet need for Adult Social Care.","answerHtml":"It is assumed that the term unmet need in the question refers to individuals in the population who require access to health services, but are unknown and subsequently have not been assessed for need.
Whilst my Department does not explicitly collect statistics on unmet need it does make an adjustment to the Capitation model to take account of the level of need in the population. It does this by using costed activity/service utilisation, together with other information derived from population surveys and making adjustments for levels of deprivation. A comparison is made between the assessed need for each Super Output Area (SOA) and the corresponding deprivation score for each SOA and based on the results of this an unmet need adjustment is made if required. As activity relating to Adult Social Care transcends a number of Programmes of Care (POCs) the measure of unmet needs is dispersed across POCs and it is therefore difficult to provide a separate measure of unmet need for Adult Social Care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051274%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250517"}},{"id":"250516","reference":"AQW 51273/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-23","answerBy":"2015-12-08","answered":"2016-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the number of permanent consultant posts that have been created in the Causeway Hospital since May 2015; and (ii) whether the positions for consultant physicians in general medicine, care of the elderly and consultant surgeon have been filled.","answerText":"One permanent full-time consultant general surgeon post has been newly created in the Causeway Hospital since May 2015. The positions for consultant surgeon and consultant in general medicine have been filled. The position for consultant physician in care of the elderly has not been filled.","answerHtml":"One permanent full-time consultant general surgeon post has been newly created in the Causeway Hospital since May 2015. The positions for consultant surgeon and consultant in general medicine have been filled. The position for consultant physician in care of the elderly has not been filled.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051273%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250516"}},{"id":"250445","reference":"AQW 51231/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-20","answerBy":"2015-12-07","answered":"2015-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of (i) the Youth Council for Northern Ireland’s contribution to the youth sector, (ii) the future of the Youth Council for Northern Ireland; and (iii) the evolving role of the Youth Council for Northern Ireland since it was formed.","answerText":"Since it was established in 1990, the Youth Council has performed a range of statutory functions to support regional voluntary youth organisations as set out in the Youth Service (NI) Order 1989. These have included:\n\nAdvising the Department, Education and Library Boards (the Education Authority) and other bodies on the development of the youth service;\n\nTo encourage cross-community activity by the youth service;\n\nTo encourage the provision of facilities for the youth service and facilities which are especially beneficial to young persons; and\n\nTo encourage and assist the coordination and efficient use of the resources of the youth service.\n\nThe Youth Council has discharged its duties in a professional and effective manner throughout its 25 years and I acknowledge the dedication of its staff and Board, who have contributed greatly to the development of a vibrant and robust regional youth service who provide support to local youth groups.\n\nAs you will be aware, I am currently considering the responses to the recent public consultation held on the future of the Youth Council and I will be announcing my decision on the way forward shortly.","answerHtml":"Since it was established in 1990, the Youth Council has performed a range of statutory functions to support regional voluntary youth organisations as set out in the Youth Service (NI) Order 1989. These have included:
Advising the Department, Education and Library Boards (the Education Authority) and other bodies on the development of the youth service;
To encourage cross-community activity by the youth service;
To encourage the provision of facilities for the youth service and facilities which are especially beneficial to young persons; and
To encourage and assist the coordination and efficient use of the resources of the youth service.
The Youth Council has discharged its duties in a professional and effective manner throughout its 25 years and I acknowledge the dedication of its staff and Board, who have contributed greatly to the development of a vibrant and robust regional youth service who provide support to local youth groups.
As you will be aware, I am currently considering the responses to the recent public consultation held on the future of the Youth Council and I will be announcing my decision on the way forward shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051231%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250445"}},{"id":"250444","reference":"AQW 51230/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-20","answerBy":"2015-12-07","answered":"2015-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he has considered absorbing the functions of the Youth Council for Northern Ireland into the remit of the Education Authority.","answerText":"Earlier this year, I announced my intention to explore how all youth funding might be delivered through the Education Authority (EA) in order to streamline the administration of all youth services to ameliorate the effect of the creation of the EA whereby we now have two statutory authorities with legislation that enables them to provide regional youth services; and to enable more resources to be used for front line youth provision.\n\nI subsequently consulted on proposals for the future of the Youth Council between 20 April and 3 July. I am carefully considering all the responses received and will be announcing my decision on the way forward in the near future.\n\nThe consultation documents are available on the Department’s website via the following link:\n\nhttps://www.deni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-proposals-future-youth-council","answerHtml":"Earlier this year, I announced my intention to explore how all youth funding might be delivered through the Education Authority (EA) in order to streamline the administration of all youth services to ameliorate the effect of the creation of the EA whereby we now have two statutory authorities with legislation that enables them to provide regional youth services; and to enable more resources to be used for front line youth provision.
I subsequently consulted on proposals for the future of the Youth Council between 20 April and 3 July. I am carefully considering all the responses received and will be announcing my decision on the way forward in the near future.
The consultation documents are available on the Department’s website via the following link:
https://www.deni.gov.uk/consultations/consultation-proposals-future-youth-council
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051230%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250444"}},{"id":"250443","reference":"AQW 51229/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-20","answerBy":"2015-12-07","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education detail the organisations, agencies and arm's-length bodies in his Department that can avail of the Voluntary Exit Scheme.","answerText":"The Department of Education’s arm’s length bodies that could avail of the Voluntary Exit Scheme are:-\n\nEducation Authority\n\nCouncil for Catholic Maintained Schools\n\nCouncil for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment\n\nNorthern Ireland Council for Integrated Education\n\nComhairle na Gaelscolaiochta\n\nGeneral Teaching Council for Northern Ireland\n\nYouth Council for Northern Ireland\n\nMiddletown Centre for Autism Ltd\n\nIt is a matter for each of these bodies as individual employers to determine whether or not they have a need for a Voluntary Exit Scheme.\n\nIn order to access funding from the Public Sector Transformation Fund for a Voluntary Exit Scheme, the arm’s length body will need to have a scheme which has been approved by my Department.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education’s arm’s length bodies that could avail of the Voluntary Exit Scheme are:-
Education Authority
Council for Catholic Maintained Schools
Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment
Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education
Comhairle na Gaelscolaiochta
General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland
Youth Council for Northern Ireland
Middletown Centre for Autism Ltd
It is a matter for each of these bodies as individual employers to determine whether or not they have a need for a Voluntary Exit Scheme.
In order to access funding from the Public Sector Transformation Fund for a Voluntary Exit Scheme, the arm’s length body will need to have a scheme which has been approved by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051229%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250443"}},{"id":"250441","reference":"AQW 51228/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-20","answerBy":"2015-12-07","answered":"2015-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether (i) funding for the youth service is ring fenced; and if so, (ii) he has plans to maintain this protection.","answerText":"Funding to the Education Authority for youth services during 2015-16 has been protected. A separate budget exists for the Youth Council.\n\nDepartmental budgets beyond 2015-16 are not yet available, but it is known that the outlook will continue to be challenging for public sector financing. Therefore, I cannot confirm at this stage if I will be in a position to maintain the current protection in place for the Education Authority’s youth service budget beyond 2015-16.","answerHtml":"Funding to the Education Authority for youth services during 2015-16 has been protected. A separate budget exists for the Youth Council.
Departmental budgets beyond 2015-16 are not yet available, but it is known that the outlook will continue to be challenging for public sector financing. Therefore, I cannot confirm at this stage if I will be in a position to maintain the current protection in place for the Education Authority’s youth service budget beyond 2015-16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051228%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250441"}},{"id":"250248","reference":"AQW 51139/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-19","answerBy":"2015-12-04","answered":"2016-01-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the funding his Department has provided to support the work of community and voluntary organisations in (a) East Londonderry; and (b) the rest of Northern Ireland in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Annually, my Department allocates £4.7m to the voluntary and community sector. Funding to individual organisations is listed on the Government Funder’s Database and can be accessed at www.volcomgrantsni.gov.uk.\n\nThis funding is provided to regional organisations, many of which have offices, or provide services, in Londonderry. Information about organisations operating in East Londonderry is not readily available.","answerHtml":"Annually, my Department allocates £4.7m to the voluntary and community sector. Funding to individual organisations is listed on the Government Funder’s Database and can be accessed at www.volcomgrantsni.gov.uk.
This funding is provided to regional organisations, many of which have offices, or provide services, in Londonderry. Information about organisations operating in East Londonderry is not readily available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051139%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250248","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250248"}},{"id":"250247","reference":"AQW 51138/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-19","answerBy":"2015-12-04","answered":"2016-03-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for a timeframe on the publication of a consultation regarding the establishment of an air ambulance service.","answerText":"Following my announcement about the establishment of a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) for Northern Ireland, my Department launched a public consultation on 23 November 2015 which will close on 22 January 2016. I will announce my decision about the key issues related to this service after I have fully considered the responses to the consultation.","answerHtml":"Following my announcement about the establishment of a Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) for Northern Ireland, my Department launched a public consultation on 23 November 2015 which will close on 22 January 2016. I will announce my decision about the key issues related to this service after I have fully considered the responses to the consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051138%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250247"}},{"id":"250246","reference":"AQW 51137/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-19","answerBy":"2015-12-04","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 49980/11-16, to detail what opportunities stakeholders have had to respond to proposals for the new Pathways Fund.","answerText":"Procurement for the Fund Administrator is underway with Central Procurement Directorate (CPD), DFP which is a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE), with the view to having an administrator in place in December 2015. Once the Administrator has been appointed they will liaise with the Early Years sector in relation to the application and assessment process.\n\nThe Pathway Fund will be open for applications in early 2016, with the aim of awards being made by April 2016.\n\nThe Pathway Fund will be open to all providers of Early Years education (aged 0-4) to apply.","answerHtml":"Procurement for the Fund Administrator is underway with Central Procurement Directorate (CPD), DFP which is a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE), with the view to having an administrator in place in December 2015. Once the Administrator has been appointed they will liaise with the Early Years sector in relation to the application and assessment process.
The Pathway Fund will be open for applications in early 2016, with the aim of awards being made by April 2016.
The Pathway Fund will be open to all providers of Early Years education (aged 0-4) to apply.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051137%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250246","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250246"}},{"id":"250244","reference":"AQW 51135/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-19","answerBy":"2015-12-04","answered":"2015-12-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development how she will use additional funding from the November monitoring round to improve community transport provision, specifically in rural areas.","answerText":"I secured an additional £600k for Community Transport in 2015-16 following the November monitoring exercise. This additional funding will reinstate approximately one third of the reduction in funding in this area. A third of the reduction introduced at the start of 2015/16 will be reinstated to the Disability Action Transport Scheme (£200k) and the Dial a Lift Scheme (£400k), which is delivered by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs). Each of the RCTPs will have approximately one third of their funding reduction reinstated and I expect to see additional trips to be provided to members of the RCTP’s as a result.","answerHtml":"I secured an additional £600k for Community Transport in 2015-16 following the November monitoring exercise. This additional funding will reinstate approximately one third of the reduction in funding in this area. A third of the reduction introduced at the start of 2015/16 will be reinstated to the Disability Action Transport Scheme (£200k) and the Dial a Lift Scheme (£400k), which is delivered by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs). Each of the RCTPs will have approximately one third of their funding reduction reinstated and I expect to see additional trips to be provided to members of the RCTP’s as a result.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051135%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250244"}},{"id":"250098","reference":"AQW 51086/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-18","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) what professional support is provided by his Department to reduce stress among teachers; (ii) whether he has any plans to increase the support available; and (iii) what discussions his Department has had with stakeholders in the last twelve months regarding stress levels among teaching staff.","answerText":"Responsibility for the health and wellbeing of teachers rests with the Board of Governors as their employers and, where relevant, the employing authorities. It is therefore their responsibility, dependant on the circumstances, to determine the appropriate professional support which should be made available to teachers.\n\nMy Department, in conjunction with the employing authorities and teaching unions, through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee, continue to work together to tackle issues that impact on teachers health and wellbeing and this issue is a regular agenda item at those meetings.\n\nMost recently, I personally endorsed the reinvigoration of the Teachers’ Health and Wellbeing Working Group of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC). This group will consider matters in relation to support which is, or can, be made available to the teaching workforce.\n\nIn recent years a number of measures have been introduced to provide support to the teaching workforce. These measures include the development of a strategy for teachers’ health and wellbeing; a policy statement on tackling violence and abuse against teachers; a workload agreement; a teachers attendance procedure, which includes a new provision for the recording of incidences of work-related stress; an independent 24 hour confidential telephone counselling service for all teachers provided by Carecall; schemes to enable flexible working, job sharing, career break and temporary variation of contract and also a policy statement on planning, preparation and assessment time.\n\nAt my request, a series of meetings was recently held between the teaching unions and my Department to discuss strategic matters in relation to education and I can advise that matters regarding teachers’ health and wellbeing were raised for discussion by a number of representatives in attendance.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for the health and wellbeing of teachers rests with the Board of Governors as their employers and, where relevant, the employing authorities. It is therefore their responsibility, dependant on the circumstances, to determine the appropriate professional support which should be made available to teachers.
My Department, in conjunction with the employing authorities and teaching unions, through the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee, continue to work together to tackle issues that impact on teachers health and wellbeing and this issue is a regular agenda item at those meetings.
Most recently, I personally endorsed the reinvigoration of the Teachers’ Health and Wellbeing Working Group of the Teachers’ Negotiating Committee (TNC). This group will consider matters in relation to support which is, or can, be made available to the teaching workforce.
In recent years a number of measures have been introduced to provide support to the teaching workforce. These measures include the development of a strategy for teachers’ health and wellbeing; a policy statement on tackling violence and abuse against teachers; a workload agreement; a teachers attendance procedure, which includes a new provision for the recording of incidences of work-related stress; an independent 24 hour confidential telephone counselling service for all teachers provided by Carecall; schemes to enable flexible working, job sharing, career break and temporary variation of contract and also a policy statement on planning, preparation and assessment time.
At my request, a series of meetings was recently held between the teaching unions and my Department to discuss strategic matters in relation to education and I can advise that matters regarding teachers’ health and wellbeing were raised for discussion by a number of representatives in attendance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051086%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250098","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250098"}},{"id":"250096","reference":"AQW 51084/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-18","answerBy":"2015-12-03","answered":"2015-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on plans to establish a new model for engaging with civic society; including progress on a civic advisory panel as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement.","answerText":"The Stormont House Agreement recognised that it is important that civic voices are heard and civic views are considered in relation to key social, cultural and economic issues. A new engagement model was envisaged, based on the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel.\n\nThe next steps for the establishment of the panel were set out in the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan of 17 November 2015. A panel of six people will be established by the Executive. It will be tasked by the Executive to consider specific strategic issues relevant to the Programme for Government and report to the Executive. It may also propose subjects that it wishes to consider and seek Executive agreement to do so. The panel will seek the views of a wide range of representatives and stakeholders from civic society. Panel members, including the Chair will be identified and appointed by OFMDFM.\n\nAgreed terms of reference for the panel were set out at Appendix F7 of the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan.","answerHtml":"The Stormont House Agreement recognised that it is important that civic voices are heard and civic views are considered in relation to key social, cultural and economic issues. A new engagement model was envisaged, based on the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel.
The next steps for the establishment of the panel were set out in the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan of 17 November 2015. A panel of six people will be established by the Executive. It will be tasked by the Executive to consider specific strategic issues relevant to the Programme for Government and report to the Executive. It may also propose subjects that it wishes to consider and seek Executive agreement to do so. The panel will seek the views of a wide range of representatives and stakeholders from civic society. Panel members, including the Chair will be identified and appointed by OFMDFM.
Agreed terms of reference for the panel were set out at Appendix F7 of the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051084%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250096"}},{"id":"250095","reference":"AQW 51083/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-18","answerBy":"2015-12-03","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development why references to community transport, including integrated schemes such as Dial-A-Lift or the Disability Action Transport Service, are absent from her Department’s consultation for an Accessible Transport Strategy 2025.","answerText":"The consultation document for a new Accessible Transport Strategy sets out the vision for a new Strategy under five distinct themes around improving the accessibility of public transport and other transport infrastructure. Services such as Dial-A-Lift and the Disability Transport Service while not mentioned by name are included under Theme 2 which highlights taxis and specialised transport schemes as important travel options for those who are older and those who have a disability.\n\nThe focus of the consultation is the broad strategic approach rather than detail on delivery of specific services. Significant work with a range of stakeholders will be required to develop measures for inclusion in a proposed Action Plan to deliver the new Strategy.","answerHtml":"The consultation document for a new Accessible Transport Strategy sets out the vision for a new Strategy under five distinct themes around improving the accessibility of public transport and other transport infrastructure. Services such as Dial-A-Lift and the Disability Transport Service while not mentioned by name are included under Theme 2 which highlights taxis and specialised transport schemes as important travel options for those who are older and those who have a disability.
The focus of the consultation is the broad strategic approach rather than detail on delivery of specific services. Significant work with a range of stakeholders will be required to develop measures for inclusion in a proposed Action Plan to deliver the new Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051083%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250095","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250095"}},{"id":"250091","reference":"AQW 51082/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-18","answerBy":"2015-12-03","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on progress to reallocate statutory responsibilities within Departments following a reduction in the number of Executive Departments.","answerText":"Work to implement the decisions reached by the Executive on future departmental structures has been progressing. As indicated in the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan (“A Fresh Start”) of 17 November 2015, we propose to introduce shortly in the Assembly a Departments Bill which will establish the statutory framework for the Executive to be appointed on a nine-department basis after the 2016 election.\n\nAppendix F5 of the “Fresh Start” document also set out a revised list of functions transferring between departments. A Transfer of Functions Order will make detailed provision for the statutory responsibilities of the future departments. Drafting of the Transfer of Functions Order is at an advanced stage. Extensive administrative preparations have been taken forward under the leadership of a cross-departmental Programme Board chaired by a Permanent Secretary.","answerHtml":"Work to implement the decisions reached by the Executive on future departmental structures has been progressing. As indicated in the Stormont Agreement and Implementation Plan (“A Fresh Start”) of 17 November 2015, we propose to introduce shortly in the Assembly a Departments Bill which will establish the statutory framework for the Executive to be appointed on a nine-department basis after the 2016 election.
Appendix F5 of the “Fresh Start” document also set out a revised list of functions transferring between departments. A Transfer of Functions Order will make detailed provision for the statutory responsibilities of the future departments. Drafting of the Transfer of Functions Order is at an advanced stage. Extensive administrative preparations have been taken forward under the leadership of a cross-departmental Programme Board chaired by a Permanent Secretary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051082%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250091","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250091"}},{"id":"250090","reference":"AQW 51081/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-18","answerBy":"2015-12-03","answered":"2015-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what consideration she has given to the development of a separate rural transport strategy.","answerText":"My Department’s policy “Ensuring a Sustainable Transport Future: A New Approach to Regional Transportation” outlines the High Level Aims and Strategic Objectives for transportation in Northern Ireland. Recognising that the transport needs of those who live in rural areas differ from those in urban areas it includes a strategic objective to improve access in rural areas. Whilst other strategic objectives of the policy will also benefit rural communities the inclusion of a specifically rural strategic objective should ensure that the needs of rural dwellers are considered as this policy is implemented.","answerHtml":"My Department’s policy “Ensuring a Sustainable Transport Future: A New Approach to Regional Transportation” outlines the High Level Aims and Strategic Objectives for transportation in Northern Ireland. Recognising that the transport needs of those who live in rural areas differ from those in urban areas it includes a strategic objective to improve access in rural areas. Whilst other strategic objectives of the policy will also benefit rural communities the inclusion of a specifically rural strategic objective should ensure that the needs of rural dwellers are considered as this policy is implemented.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051081%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250090","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250090"}},{"id":"249907","reference":"AQW 51032/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-17","answerBy":"2015-11-20","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) whether the Family Fund will receive financial support from his Department in 2016; (ii) whether applications that have been submitted to the Family Fund for next year will receive funding; and (iii) what plans he has to maintain this support for disabled children.","answerText":"Following the outcome of the November Monitoring Round, I announced on 18 November that my Department had received investment of an additional £47.6m in Health and Social Care this year. I am therefore delighted that my Department is now able to provide further funding of £784k (2015/2016 financial year) to the Family Fund to support the families of disabled children and young people with disabilities in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Following the outcome of the November Monitoring Round, I announced on 18 November that my Department had received investment of an additional £47.6m in Health and Social Care this year. I am therefore delighted that my Department is now able to provide further funding of £784k (2015/2016 financial year) to the Family Fund to support the families of disabled children and young people with disabilities in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051032%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249907"}},{"id":"249852","reference":"AQW 51003/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-17","answerBy":"2015-12-02","answered":"2015-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether funding is available to protect the Senior Citizen Smart Pass for people aged 65 years and older, for 2015/16.","answerText":"I fully support the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which includes the Senior Citizen Smart Pass for people over 65. This element of the scheme contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and in revitalising Public Transport.\n\nI welcome the additional £2m funding for Concessionary Fares that was provided to my Department in November monitoring. This additional funding will support the provision of the Senior Citizen Smart Pass element of the scheme in 2015/16.","answerHtml":"I fully support the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which includes the Senior Citizen Smart Pass for people over 65. This element of the scheme contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and in revitalising Public Transport.
I welcome the additional £2m funding for Concessionary Fares that was provided to my Department in November monitoring. This additional funding will support the provision of the Senior Citizen Smart Pass element of the scheme in 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051003%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249852","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249852"}},{"id":"249851","reference":"AQW 51002/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-17","answerBy":"2015-12-02","answered":"2015-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the future of the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme.","answerText":"My Department continues to fund the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme which I fully support. I have no plans to change the Scheme.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to fund the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme which I fully support. I have no plans to change the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051002%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249851","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249851"}},{"id":"249850","reference":"AQW 51001/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-17","answerBy":"2015-12-02","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the recent survey conducted by the National Association of Head Teachers Northern Ireland that indicates increased levels of stress amongst teachers.","answerText":"The NAHT did not share a copy of their recent survey with me, so my officials had to request the same which has just been received. As such, I am not in a position to make a fully informed assessment of the findings; however I have stated that I am willing to meet with them to discuss this matter.\n\nThe health and wellbeing of school principals, is a matter of the utmost importance to me. I am aware of the health and wellbeing issues faced by all of our teaching workforce, and the importance of addressing them if we are to retain a committed, motivated and healthy teaching workforce.","answerHtml":"The NAHT did not share a copy of their recent survey with me, so my officials had to request the same which has just been received. As such, I am not in a position to make a fully informed assessment of the findings; however I have stated that I am willing to meet with them to discuss this matter.
The health and wellbeing of school principals, is a matter of the utmost importance to me. I am aware of the health and wellbeing issues faced by all of our teaching workforce, and the importance of addressing them if we are to retain a committed, motivated and healthy teaching workforce.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051001%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249850","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249850"}},{"id":"249833","reference":"AQW 51000/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-17","answerBy":"2015-12-02","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the Community Relations, Equality and Diversity fund.","answerText":"Earmarked funding for Community Relations, Equality and Diversity (CRED) ended in March 2015, with a view to CRED work continuing in the schools and youth sectors through mainstream funding.","answerHtml":"Earmarked funding for Community Relations, Equality and Diversity (CRED) ended in March 2015, with a view to CRED work continuing in the schools and youth sectors through mainstream funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2051000%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249833","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249833"}},{"id":"249687","reference":"AQW 50936/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-16","answerBy":"2015-12-01","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel what support her Department offers to businesses that received Small Business Rates Relief Scheme prior to the re-valuation of non-domestic rates in April 2015, but that now fall outside the threshold following the revaluation of their rates.","answerText":"I have no plans to recalibrate the scheme for those who fall outside the thresholds.\n\nThe NI Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP now UUCEP) in their evaluation of SBRR in 2014 recommended that the scheme should be retained in its current form for 2015/16, and that spend on the scheme should be capped. My predecessor extended the scheme for an additional year in its current form but did not favour capping the scheme which would have resulted in more ratepayers losing support. This contributed to a slight increase in the cost of the scheme this year in terms of revenue forgone.\n\nNICEP also recommended that SBRR should be phased out as wider economic conditions improve. I am now working alongside the DSD Minister and DETI Minister, and am currently researching potential alternatives to the SBRR scheme to come into operation in line with any SBRR phase out.\n\nWhile this research is being undertaken, subject to final Budget agreement, I am minded to continue the SBRR scheme for the 2016/17 year and would, subject to the final budget propose to take legislation through early in the New Year to extend the scheme.\n\nI laid out the wide range of rate relief available to the non domestic sector, which includes those properties which may previously have been entitled for small business rate relief prior to April 2015 in my response to your AQW 50932/11-16.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to recalibrate the scheme for those who fall outside the thresholds.
The NI Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP now UUCEP) in their evaluation of SBRR in 2014 recommended that the scheme should be retained in its current form for 2015/16, and that spend on the scheme should be capped. My predecessor extended the scheme for an additional year in its current form but did not favour capping the scheme which would have resulted in more ratepayers losing support. This contributed to a slight increase in the cost of the scheme this year in terms of revenue forgone.
NICEP also recommended that SBRR should be phased out as wider economic conditions improve. I am now working alongside the DSD Minister and DETI Minister, and am currently researching potential alternatives to the SBRR scheme to come into operation in line with any SBRR phase out.
While this research is being undertaken, subject to final Budget agreement, I am minded to continue the SBRR scheme for the 2016/17 year and would, subject to the final budget propose to take legislation through early in the New Year to extend the scheme.
I laid out the wide range of rate relief available to the non domestic sector, which includes those properties which may previously have been entitled for small business rate relief prior to April 2015 in my response to your AQW 50932/11-16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050936%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249687","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249687"}},{"id":"249686","reference":"AQW 50935/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-16","answerBy":"2015-12-01","answered":"2015-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many businesses in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area submitted an appeal to their rates revaluation, following Reval2015; and how many received a (i) successful, and (ii) unsuccessful outcome.","answerText":"As at 31st October 2015, 237 ratepayers in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area had submitted an application to the District Valuer following Reval 2015. Of the 142 applications completed, 79 valuations were reduced, 3 valuations were increased; and 60 valuations were not changed.","answerHtml":"As at 31st October 2015, 237 ratepayers in the Causeway Coast and Glens Council area had submitted an application to the District Valuer following Reval 2015. Of the 142 applications completed, 79 valuations were reduced, 3 valuations were increased; and 60 valuations were not changed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050935%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249686","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249686"}},{"id":"249685","reference":"AQW 50934/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-16","answerBy":"2015-12-01","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether she will consider recalibrating the qualifying threshold for Small Business Rates Relief, following the revaluation of non-domestic rates from April 2015.","answerText":"I have no plans to recalibrate the scheme for those who fall outside the thresholds.\n\nThe NI Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP now UUCEP) in their evaluation of SBRR in 2014 recommended that the scheme should be retained in its current form for 2015/16, and that spend on the scheme should be capped. My predecessor extended the scheme for an additional year in its current form but did not favour capping the scheme which would have resulted in more ratepayers losing support. This contributed to a slight increase in the cost of the scheme this year in terms of revenue forgone.\n\nNICEP also recommended that SBRR should be phased out as wider economic conditions improve. I am now working alongside the DSD Minister and DETI Minister, and am currently researching potential alternatives to the SBRR scheme to come into operation in line with any SBRR phase out.\n\nWhile this research is being undertaken, subject to final Budget agreement, I am minded to continue the SBRR scheme for the 2016/17 year and would, subject to the final budget propose to take legislation through early in the New Year to extend the scheme.\n\nI laid out the wide range of rate relief available to the non domestic sector, which includes those properties which may previously have been entitled for small business rate relief prior to April 2015 in my response to your AQW 50932/11-16.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to recalibrate the scheme for those who fall outside the thresholds.
The NI Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP now UUCEP) in their evaluation of SBRR in 2014 recommended that the scheme should be retained in its current form for 2015/16, and that spend on the scheme should be capped. My predecessor extended the scheme for an additional year in its current form but did not favour capping the scheme which would have resulted in more ratepayers losing support. This contributed to a slight increase in the cost of the scheme this year in terms of revenue forgone.
NICEP also recommended that SBRR should be phased out as wider economic conditions improve. I am now working alongside the DSD Minister and DETI Minister, and am currently researching potential alternatives to the SBRR scheme to come into operation in line with any SBRR phase out.
While this research is being undertaken, subject to final Budget agreement, I am minded to continue the SBRR scheme for the 2016/17 year and would, subject to the final budget propose to take legislation through early in the New Year to extend the scheme.
I laid out the wide range of rate relief available to the non domestic sector, which includes those properties which may previously have been entitled for small business rate relief prior to April 2015 in my response to your AQW 50932/11-16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050934%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249685","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249685"}},{"id":"249684","reference":"AQW 50933/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-16","answerBy":"2015-12-01","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether any businesses that submitted an appeal to their rates revaluation, following Reval2015, had their valuations increased as the outcome of their appeal.","answerText":"I can confirm that to date a small number of ratepayers who submitted an Application to the District Valuer following Revaluation 2015, have seen their properties’ Net Annual Values (NAV) increase on completion of the case.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that to date a small number of ratepayers who submitted an Application to the District Valuer following Revaluation 2015, have seen their properties’ Net Annual Values (NAV) increase on completion of the case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050933%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249684","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249684"}},{"id":"249683","reference":"AQW 50932/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-16","answerBy":"2015-12-01","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for a list of the non-domestic rates relief schemes and exemptions which are currently available to assist rate payers.","answerText":"The reliefs and exemptions available to assist non-domestic ratepayers are the same schemes that I outlined in my answer to another recent question from you (AQW 49401/11-16).\n\nThese include Small Business Rate Relief, Small Business Rate Relief for Small Post Offices, Empty Shops Rates Concession, Charitable Exemption, Sports and Recreation Rate Relief, Residential Homes Rate Relief, Industrial Derating, Empty Premises Relief, Hardship Relief, Exemption for Rural ATMs and District Rates Convergence.","answerHtml":"The reliefs and exemptions available to assist non-domestic ratepayers are the same schemes that I outlined in my answer to another recent question from you (AQW 49401/11-16).
These include Small Business Rate Relief, Small Business Rate Relief for Small Post Offices, Empty Shops Rates Concession, Charitable Exemption, Sports and Recreation Rate Relief, Residential Homes Rate Relief, Industrial Derating, Empty Premises Relief, Hardship Relief, Exemption for Rural ATMs and District Rates Convergence.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050932%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249683","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249683"}},{"id":"249544","reference":"AQW 50853/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-13","answerBy":"2015-11-30","answered":"2015-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail whether the Delivering Social Change Ministerial Sub-Committees on (a) Poverty and Social Inclusion; and (b) Children and Young People, have met in the last twelve months.","answerText":"During the last twelve months one joint meeting of the Delivering Social Change Ministerial Sub Committees on Children and Young People and Poverty and Social Inclusion was held (April 2015). At this meeting both Children and Young People and Poverty and Social Inclusion matters were considered.\n\nA meeting of the Ministerial Sub-Committee on Poverty and Social Inclusion took place on 9 December 2015.","answerHtml":"During the last twelve months one joint meeting of the Delivering Social Change Ministerial Sub Committees on Children and Young People and Poverty and Social Inclusion was held (April 2015). At this meeting both Children and Young People and Poverty and Social Inclusion matters were considered.
A meeting of the Ministerial Sub-Committee on Poverty and Social Inclusion took place on 9 December 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050853%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249544"}},{"id":"249543","reference":"AQW 50852/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-13","answerBy":"2015-11-30","answered":"2015-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Social Investment Fund.","answerText":"Currently the Social Investment Fund (SIF) has committed to projects with associated costs of around £58 million profiled over a number of years to reflect project requirements.\n\nGood progress is being made across the nine SIF zones. For example 10 revenue projects have service delivery organisations appointed and six of these are now operational with active participants. The remaining four are engaged in early planning with a view to formally commencing shortly. These projects are aimed at supporting employment and early intervention with one focused on social enterprise. They are expected to bring real benefits to communities and to have them at this advanced stage demonstrates real progress.\n\nSIF capital projects are also progressing well. One, the Coleraine Rural and Urban Network Hub, has been operational since September and two others, the Bryson Street Surgery and Best of the East in the Belfast East zone are expected to be operational before the end of March 2016. A further fifteen capital projects have commenced and are either at the stage of design or in the process of procuring a design team. Four of these are at a more advanced stage and are expected to appoint contractors and commence construction works shortly. Fermanagh House in the Western Zone, has now formally commenced construction and the build is due to complete over the next year with a view to being operational in early 2017.\n\nSIF’s remaining £22 million is allocated to projects still in the approvals process. Officials are working to expedite these as quickly as possible subject to affordability.","answerHtml":"Currently the Social Investment Fund (SIF) has committed to projects with associated costs of around £58 million profiled over a number of years to reflect project requirements.
Good progress is being made across the nine SIF zones. For example 10 revenue projects have service delivery organisations appointed and six of these are now operational with active participants. The remaining four are engaged in early planning with a view to formally commencing shortly. These projects are aimed at supporting employment and early intervention with one focused on social enterprise. They are expected to bring real benefits to communities and to have them at this advanced stage demonstrates real progress.
SIF capital projects are also progressing well. One, the Coleraine Rural and Urban Network Hub, has been operational since September and two others, the Bryson Street Surgery and Best of the East in the Belfast East zone are expected to be operational before the end of March 2016. A further fifteen capital projects have commenced and are either at the stage of design or in the process of procuring a design team. Four of these are at a more advanced stage and are expected to appoint contractors and commence construction works shortly. Fermanagh House in the Western Zone, has now formally commenced construction and the build is due to complete over the next year with a view to being operational in early 2017.
SIF’s remaining £22 million is allocated to projects still in the approvals process. Officials are working to expedite these as quickly as possible subject to affordability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050852%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249543"}},{"id":"249541","reference":"AQW 50850/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-13","answerBy":"2015-11-30","answered":"2015-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Revised Child Poverty Strategy; including, (a) when it will be laid in the Assembly; and (b) published.","answerText":"We refer to our response to you dated 22 October (AQW48692/11-16) on this matter.","answerHtml":"We refer to our response to you dated 22 October (AQW48692/11-16) on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050850%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249541","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249541"}},{"id":"249526","reference":"AQW 50838/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-13","answerBy":"2015-11-30","answered":"2015-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how changes in the uptake of Employment Support Allowance have impacted the latest figures showing economic activity; and to outline the criteria used to arrive at these figures.","answerText":"Official estimates of economic activity are sourced from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). The LFS is a sample survey that is primarily designed to provide labour market information at the Northern Ireland level.\n\nEstimates of the numbers in receipt of Employment Support Allowance (ESA) cannot be provided from the LFS due to the wide survey margins of error associated with these estimates. It is not therefore possible to calculate how changes in the uptake of Employment Support Allowance have impacted the latest figures showing economic activity.\n\nThe official source for Employment Support Allowance statistics is the Department for Social Development (DSD).\n\nFor information, Table 1 provides levels of economic activity from the LFS and Table 2 shows ESA estimates sourced from DSD.\n\nTable 1 Economic activity levels (16+), 2010 – 2015\n\nYear\tQuarter\tNumber of economically active (16+)\n2010\tJan-Mar\t818,000\nApr-Jun\t822,000\nJul-Sep\t824,000\nOct-Dec\t831,000\n2011\tJan-Mar\t837,000\nApr-Jun\t849,000\nJul-Sep\t843,000\nOct-Dec\t844,000\n2012\tJan-Mar\t840,000\nApr-Jun\t843,000\nJul-Sep\t848,000\nOct-Dec\t844,000\n2013\tJan-Mar\t842,000\nApr-Jun\t833,000\nJul-Sep\t844,000\nOct-Dec\t849,000\n2014\tJan-Mar\t851,000\nApr-Jun\t853,000\nJul-Sep\t850,000\nOct-Dec\t839,000\n2015\tJan-Mar\t852,000\nApr-Jun\t847,000\nJul-Sep\t843,000\n\nSource: Labour Force Survey\n\nTable 2Employment and Support Allowance levels, 2010 - 2015\n\nYear\tMonth\tAll Claimants\tRecipients\tCredits Only\n2010\tFebruary\t16,760\t14,560\t2,200\nMay\t19,210\t17,070\t2,130\nAugust\t21,170\t18,500\t2,680\nNovember\t23,090\t20,520\t2,570\n2011\tFebruary\t24,700\t21,870\t2,840\nMay\t25,810\t23,100\t2,710\nAugust\t28,130\t25,500\t2,640\nNovember\t32,290\t29,240\t3,060\n2012\tFebruary\t36,280\t33,020\t3,260\nMay\t44,020\t40,240\t3,780\nAugust\t49,830\t45,990\t3,840\nNovember\t57,110\t53,740\t3,370\n2013\tFebruary\t64,100\t60,400\t3,700\nMay\t74,190\t70,500\t3,690\nAugust\t81,340\t77,610\t3,730\nNovember\t90,650\t86,930\t3,730\n2014\tFebruary\t96,340\t93,060\t3,280\nMay\t103,860\t99,950\t3,910\nAugust\t111,670\t107,190\t4,480\nNovember\t113,800\t109,090\t4,710\n2015\tFebruary\t116,430\t111,730\t4,690\nMay\t118,140\t113,670\t4,470\n\nSource: Department for Social Development","answerHtml":"Official estimates of economic activity are sourced from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). The LFS is a sample survey that is primarily designed to provide labour market information at the Northern Ireland level.
Estimates of the numbers in receipt of Employment Support Allowance (ESA) cannot be provided from the LFS due to the wide survey margins of error associated with these estimates. It is not therefore possible to calculate how changes in the uptake of Employment Support Allowance have impacted the latest figures showing economic activity.
The official source for Employment Support Allowance statistics is the Department for Social Development (DSD).
For information, Table 1 provides levels of economic activity from the LFS and Table 2 shows ESA estimates sourced from DSD.
Table 1 Economic activity levels (16+), 2010 – 2015
| Year | Quarter | Number of economically active (16+) |
| 2010 | Jan-Mar | 818,000 |
| Apr-Jun | 822,000 | |
| Jul-Sep | 824,000 | |
| Oct-Dec | 831,000 | |
| 2011 | Jan-Mar | 837,000 |
| Apr-Jun | 849,000 | |
| Jul-Sep | 843,000 | |
| Oct-Dec | 844,000 | |
| 2012 | Jan-Mar | 840,000 |
| Apr-Jun | 843,000 | |
| Jul-Sep | 848,000 | |
| Oct-Dec | 844,000 | |
| 2013 | Jan-Mar | 842,000 |
| Apr-Jun | 833,000 | |
| Jul-Sep | 844,000 | |
| Oct-Dec | 849,000 | |
| 2014 | Jan-Mar | 851,000 |
| Apr-Jun | 853,000 | |
| Jul-Sep | 850,000 | |
| Oct-Dec | 839,000 | |
| 2015 | Jan-Mar | 852,000 |
| Apr-Jun | 847,000 | |
| Jul-Sep | 843,000 |
Source: Labour Force Survey
Table 2Employment and Support Allowance levels, 2010 - 2015
| Year | Month | All Claimants | Recipients | Credits Only |
| 2010 | February | 16,760 | 14,560 | 2,200 |
| May | 19,210 | 17,070 | 2,130 | |
| August | 21,170 | 18,500 | 2,680 | |
| November | 23,090 | 20,520 | 2,570 | |
| 2011 | February | 24,700 | 21,870 | 2,840 |
| May | 25,810 | 23,100 | 2,710 | |
| August | 28,130 | 25,500 | 2,640 | |
| November | 32,290 | 29,240 | 3,060 | |
| 2012 | February | 36,280 | 33,020 | 3,260 |
| May | 44,020 | 40,240 | 3,780 | |
| August | 49,830 | 45,990 | 3,840 | |
| November | 57,110 | 53,740 | 3,370 | |
| 2013 | February | 64,100 | 60,400 | 3,700 |
| May | 74,190 | 70,500 | 3,690 | |
| August | 81,340 | 77,610 | 3,730 | |
| November | 90,650 | 86,930 | 3,730 | |
| 2014 | February | 96,340 | 93,060 | 3,280 |
| May | 103,860 | 99,950 | 3,910 | |
| August | 111,670 | 107,190 | 4,480 | |
| November | 113,800 | 109,090 | 4,710 | |
| 2015 | February | 116,430 | 111,730 | 4,690 |
| May | 118,140 | 113,670 | 4,470 |
Source: Department for Social Development
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050838%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249526","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249526"}},{"id":"249398","reference":"AQW 50809/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-27","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps he has taken to implement the recommendations outlined in the Commissioner for Older People’s 2014 report on Supporting Older Carers.","answerText":"Of the five recommendations made in the 2014 report, my department’s analysis was that four recommendations were satisfied by the well established practice in the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. HSC Trusts have a statutory duty to make information regarding a carer’s right to assessment widely available and to inform eligible individuals directly of that right.\n\nSince 2013, a target in the Commissioning Plan Direction has required a 10% increase in the number of carers’ assessments offered, as compared to the previous year. However, it would not be appropriate to set a target for “uptake” of assessment, as carers have a right to decline assessment. Indeed, the highest proportion of carers declining an assessment state that they do not require any further support.\n\nFollowing the completion of a carers assessment, HSC Trusts are required to meet all eligible need identified, and mechanisms to carry out reviews and reassessments are already well established.\n\nThe report also recommended changes to the NISAT Carers Assessment form, echoing calls from other stakeholders and carer representatives. Accordingly, the tool has been reviewed and significantly changed as part of the review of eNISAT; changes include a change of name to the ‘Carers Support Plan’.","answerHtml":"Of the five recommendations made in the 2014 report, my department’s analysis was that four recommendations were satisfied by the well established practice in the Health and Social Care (HSC) system. HSC Trusts have a statutory duty to make information regarding a carer’s right to assessment widely available and to inform eligible individuals directly of that right.
Since 2013, a target in the Commissioning Plan Direction has required a 10% increase in the number of carers’ assessments offered, as compared to the previous year. However, it would not be appropriate to set a target for “uptake” of assessment, as carers have a right to decline assessment. Indeed, the highest proportion of carers declining an assessment state that they do not require any further support.
Following the completion of a carers assessment, HSC Trusts are required to meet all eligible need identified, and mechanisms to carry out reviews and reassessments are already well established.
The report also recommended changes to the NISAT Carers Assessment form, echoing calls from other stakeholders and carer representatives. Accordingly, the tool has been reviewed and significantly changed as part of the review of eNISAT; changes include a change of name to the ‘Carers Support Plan’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050809%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249398","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249398"}},{"id":"249394","reference":"AQW 50807/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-27","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail how many people were in receipt of an Employment Support Allowance for each quarter of the last year for (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) each Council Area.","answerText":"The table overleaf shows the number of people in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance in each of the last 5 quarters, broken down by council area. This is the latest available information.\n\nESA RECIPIENTS\nLocal Government District\tMAY 2014\tAUG 2014\tNOV 2014\tFEB 2015\tMAY 2015\n\nAntrim Borough Council\t2,450\t2,630\t2,740\t2,810\t2,850\nArds Borough Council\t3,450\t3,680\t3,750\t3,800\t3,830\nArmagh City and District Council\t2,750\t2,980\t3,050\t3,120\t3,190\nBallymena Borough Council\t2,990\t3,230\t3,280\t3,330\t3,380\nBallymoney Borough Council\t1,740\t1,850\t1,860\t1,890\t1,900\nBanbridge District Council\t2,320\t2,450\t2,460\t2,500\t2,560\nBelfast City Council\t20,810\t22,230\t22,710\t23,330\t23,850\nCarrickfergus Borough Council\t1,860\t2,020\t2,030\t2,110\t2,140\nCastlereagh Borough Council\t2,670\t2,840\t2,910\t2,950\t3,030\nColeraine Borough Council\t3,110\t3,320\t3,330\t3,420\t3,450\nCookstown District Council\t2,080\t2,220\t2,250\t2,310\t2,330\nCraigavon Borough Council\t5,250\t5,620\t5,670\t5,780\t5,900\nDerry City Council\t8,340\t8,860\t9,020\t9,270\t9,440\nDown District Council\t3,600\t3,870\t3,980\t4,100\t4,150\nDungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council\t2,930\t3,190\t3,230\t3,280\t3,350\nFermanagh District Council\t2,680\t2,910\t3,000\t3,130\t3,180\nLarne Borough Council\t1,660\t1,760\t1,820\t1,870\t1,900\nLimavady Borough Council\t2,280\t2,450\t2,450\t2,530\t2,560\nLisburn City Council\t5,320\t5,700\t5,810\t5,930\t6,050\nMagherafelt District Council\t2,060\t2,240\t2,240\t2,310\t2,330\nMoyle District Council\t950\t1,030\t1,050\t1,050\t1,070\nNewry And Mourne District Council\t5,700\t6,050\t6,180\t6,300\t6,350\nNewtownabbey Borough Council\t3,850\t4,160\t4,240\t4,380\t4,450\nNorth Down Borough Council\t2,750\t2,960\t3,040\t3,150\t3,220\nOmagh District Council\t3,150\t3,430\t3,480\t3,560\t3,620\nStrabane District Council\t2,740\t2,980\t3,010\t3,060\t3,100\nUNKNOWN\t470\t520\t510\t490\t490\n\nTOTAL N.I. RECIPIENTS\t99,950\t107,190\t109,090\t111,730\t113,670\n\nThe table below shows the number of people in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance in the quarter ending May 2015, broken down by new council area.\n\nESA recipients\nNew council\tMAY 2015\n\nAntrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council\t7,310\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council\t11,580\nBelfast City Council\t27,520\nCauseway Coast and Glens District Council\t8,990\nDerry and Strabane District Council\t12,540\nFermanagh and Omagh District Council\t6,800\nLisburn and Castlereagh City Council\t5,430\nMid Ulster District Council\t7,940\nMid and East Antrim Borough Council\t7,410\nNewry, Mourne and Down District Council\t10,630\nNorth Down and Ards Borough Council\t7,030\nUNKNOWN\t500\n\nTotal N.I. recipients\t113,670\n\nThe information provided is an Official Statistic. The Production and dissemination of all such Statistics is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The table overleaf shows the number of people in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance in each of the last 5 quarters, broken down by council area. This is the latest available information.
| ESA RECIPIENTS | |||||
| Local Government District | MAY 2014 | AUG 2014 | NOV 2014 | FEB 2015 | MAY 2015 |
| Antrim Borough Council | 2,450 | 2,630 | 2,740 | 2,810 | 2,850 |
| Ards Borough Council | 3,450 | 3,680 | 3,750 | 3,800 | 3,830 |
| Armagh City and District Council | 2,750 | 2,980 | 3,050 | 3,120 | 3,190 |
| Ballymena Borough Council | 2,990 | 3,230 | 3,280 | 3,330 | 3,380 |
| Ballymoney Borough Council | 1,740 | 1,850 | 1,860 | 1,890 | 1,900 |
| Banbridge District Council | 2,320 | 2,450 | 2,460 | 2,500 | 2,560 |
| Belfast City Council | 20,810 | 22,230 | 22,710 | 23,330 | 23,850 |
| Carrickfergus Borough Council | 1,860 | 2,020 | 2,030 | 2,110 | 2,140 |
| Castlereagh Borough Council | 2,670 | 2,840 | 2,910 | 2,950 | 3,030 |
| Coleraine Borough Council | 3,110 | 3,320 | 3,330 | 3,420 | 3,450 |
| Cookstown District Council | 2,080 | 2,220 | 2,250 | 2,310 | 2,330 |
| Craigavon Borough Council | 5,250 | 5,620 | 5,670 | 5,780 | 5,900 |
| Derry City Council | 8,340 | 8,860 | 9,020 | 9,270 | 9,440 |
| Down District Council | 3,600 | 3,870 | 3,980 | 4,100 | 4,150 |
| Dungannon & South Tyrone Borough Council | 2,930 | 3,190 | 3,230 | 3,280 | 3,350 |
| Fermanagh District Council | 2,680 | 2,910 | 3,000 | 3,130 | 3,180 |
| Larne Borough Council | 1,660 | 1,760 | 1,820 | 1,870 | 1,900 |
| Limavady Borough Council | 2,280 | 2,450 | 2,450 | 2,530 | 2,560 |
| Lisburn City Council | 5,320 | 5,700 | 5,810 | 5,930 | 6,050 |
| Magherafelt District Council | 2,060 | 2,240 | 2,240 | 2,310 | 2,330 |
| Moyle District Council | 950 | 1,030 | 1,050 | 1,050 | 1,070 |
| Newry And Mourne District Council | 5,700 | 6,050 | 6,180 | 6,300 | 6,350 |
| Newtownabbey Borough Council | 3,850 | 4,160 | 4,240 | 4,380 | 4,450 |
| North Down Borough Council | 2,750 | 2,960 | 3,040 | 3,150 | 3,220 |
| Omagh District Council | 3,150 | 3,430 | 3,480 | 3,560 | 3,620 |
| Strabane District Council | 2,740 | 2,980 | 3,010 | 3,060 | 3,100 |
| UNKNOWN | 470 | 520 | 510 | 490 | 490 |
| TOTAL N.I. RECIPIENTS | 99,950 | 107,190 | 109,090 | 111,730 | 113,670 |
The table below shows the number of people in receipt of Employment and Support Allowance in the quarter ending May 2015, broken down by new council area.
| ESA recipients | |
| New council | MAY 2015 |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council | 7,310 |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council | 11,580 |
| Belfast City Council | 27,520 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens District Council | 8,990 |
| Derry and Strabane District Council | 12,540 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh District Council | 6,800 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council | 5,430 |
| Mid Ulster District Council | 7,940 |
| Mid and East Antrim Borough Council | 7,410 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down District Council | 10,630 |
| North Down and Ards Borough Council | 7,030 |
| UNKNOWN | 500 |
| Total N.I. recipients | 113,670 |
The information provided is an Official Statistic. The Production and dissemination of all such Statistics is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050807%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249394","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249394"}},{"id":"249388","reference":"AQW 50802/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-27","answered":"2015-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail (i) the employment; (ii) the unemployment; and (iii) the economically inactive figures for each quarter of the last year for (a) Northern Ireland; and (b) each Council Area.","answerText":"Official estimates of employment, unemployment and economic inactivity are sourced from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). The LFS is a sample survey that is primarily designed to provide labour market information at the Northern Ireland level.\n\nThe attached tables 1 - 4 provide details of economic status (relating to those aged 16 or over) for Northern Ireland and where these are available, for each Council Area, for the last four quarters.\n\nTable 1: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, October – December 2014\n\nIn employment\tUnemployed\tEconomically inactive\tTotal\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t64,000\t*\t43,000\t107,000\nArds and North Down\t71,000\t*\t58,000\t131,000\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon\t104,000\t*\t49,000\t157,000\nBelfast\t133,000\t10,000\t116,000\t259,000\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t64,000\t*\t47,000\t116,000\nDerry and Strabane\t59,000\t10,000\t51,000\t119,000\nFermanagh and Omagh\t53,000\t*\t37,000\t92,000\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t62,000\t*\t47,000\t112,000\nMid and East Antrim\t60,000\t*\t45,000\t109,000\nMid Ulster\t66,000\t*\t40,000\t111,000\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t78,000\t*\t46,000\t129,000\nNorthern Ireland\t812,000\t50,000\t580,000\t1,441,000\n\n* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than a minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).\n\nTable 2: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, January – March 2015\n\nIn employment\tUnemployed\tEconomically inactive\tTotal\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t68,000\t*\t36,000\t108,000\nArds and North Down\t74,000\t*\t49,000\t126,000\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon\t98,000\t*\t58,000\t162,000\nBelfast\t143,000\t*\t118,000\t268,000\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t64,000\t9,000\t47,000\t120,000\nDerry and Strabane\t56,000\t9,000\t54,000\t120,000\nFermanagh and Omagh\t55,000\t*\t30,000\t87,000\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t59,000\t*\t40,000\t101,000\nMid and East Antrim\t66,000\t*\t37,000\t108,000\nMid Ulster\t66,000\t*\t39,000\t110,000\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t80,000\t*\t50,000\t135,000\nNorthern Ireland\t831,000\t54,000\t558,000\t1,444,000\n\n* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).\n\nTable 3: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, April – June 2015\n\nIn employment\tUnemployed\tEconomically inactive\tTotal\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t59,000\t*\t45,000\t108,000\nArds and North Down\t73,000\t*\t47,000\t123,000\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon\t101,000\t*\t56,000\t162,000\nBelfast\t135,000\t11,000\t128,000\t273,000\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t66,000\t*\t48,000\t121,000\nDerry and Strabane\t62,000\t*\t44,000\t113,000\nFermanagh and Omagh\t56,000\t*\t29,000\t87,000\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t58,000\t*\t43,000\t104,000\nMid and East Antrim\t56,000\t*\t50,000\t108,000\nMid Ulster\t70,000\t*\t38,000\t112,000\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t78,000\t*\t48,000\t134,000\nNorthern Ireland\t815,000\t55,000\t576,000\t1,446,000\n\n* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).\n\nTable 4: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, July – September 2015\n\nIn employment\tUnemployed\tEconomically inactive\tTotal\nAntrim and Newtownabbey\t60,000\t*\t45,000\t109,000\nArds and North Down\t78,000\t*\t40,000\t121,000\nArmagh, Banbridge and Craigavon\t97,000\t*\t68,000\t170,000\nBelfast\t143,000\t11,000\t116,000\t269,000\nCauseway Coast and Glens\t59,000\t*\t47,000\t114,000\nDerry and Strabane\t58,000\t9,000\t45,000\t111,000\nFermanagh and Omagh\t53,000\t*\t37,000\t91,000\nLisburn and Castlereagh\t65,000\t*\t40,000\t108,000\nMid and East Antrim\t57,000\t*\t55,000\t112,000\nMid Ulster\t72,000\t*\t34,000\t109,000\nNewry, Mourne and Down\t76,000\t*\t49,000\t132,000\nNorthern Ireland\t819,000\t52,000\t576,000\t1,447,000\n\n* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).","answerHtml":"Official estimates of employment, unemployment and economic inactivity are sourced from the Labour Force Survey (LFS). The LFS is a sample survey that is primarily designed to provide labour market information at the Northern Ireland level.
The attached tables 1 - 4 provide details of economic status (relating to those aged 16 or over) for Northern Ireland and where these are available, for each Council Area, for the last four quarters.
Table 1: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, October – December 2014
| In employment | Unemployed | Economically inactive | Total | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 64,000 | * | 43,000 | 107,000 |
| Ards and North Down | 71,000 | * | 58,000 | 131,000 |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon | 104,000 | * | 49,000 | 157,000 |
| Belfast | 133,000 | 10,000 | 116,000 | 259,000 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 64,000 | * | 47,000 | 116,000 |
| Derry and Strabane | 59,000 | 10,000 | 51,000 | 119,000 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 53,000 | * | 37,000 | 92,000 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 62,000 | * | 47,000 | 112,000 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 60,000 | * | 45,000 | 109,000 |
| Mid Ulster | 66,000 | * | 40,000 | 111,000 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 78,000 | * | 46,000 | 129,000 |
| Northern Ireland | 812,000 | 50,000 | 580,000 | 1,441,000 |
* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than a minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).
Table 2: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, January – March 2015
| In employment | Unemployed | Economically inactive | Total | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 68,000 | * | 36,000 | 108,000 |
| Ards and North Down | 74,000 | * | 49,000 | 126,000 |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon | 98,000 | * | 58,000 | 162,000 |
| Belfast | 143,000 | * | 118,000 | 268,000 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 64,000 | 9,000 | 47,000 | 120,000 |
| Derry and Strabane | 56,000 | 9,000 | 54,000 | 120,000 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 55,000 | * | 30,000 | 87,000 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 59,000 | * | 40,000 | 101,000 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 66,000 | * | 37,000 | 108,000 |
| Mid Ulster | 66,000 | * | 39,000 | 110,000 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 80,000 | * | 50,000 | 135,000 |
| Northern Ireland | 831,000 | 54,000 | 558,000 | 1,444,000 |
* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).
Table 3: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, April – June 2015
| In employment | Unemployed | Economically inactive | Total | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 59,000 | * | 45,000 | 108,000 |
| Ards and North Down | 73,000 | * | 47,000 | 123,000 |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon | 101,000 | * | 56,000 | 162,000 |
| Belfast | 135,000 | 11,000 | 128,000 | 273,000 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 66,000 | * | 48,000 | 121,000 |
| Derry and Strabane | 62,000 | * | 44,000 | 113,000 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 56,000 | * | 29,000 | 87,000 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 58,000 | * | 43,000 | 104,000 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 56,000 | * | 50,000 | 108,000 |
| Mid Ulster | 70,000 | * | 38,000 | 112,000 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 78,000 | * | 48,000 | 134,000 |
| Northern Ireland | 815,000 | 55,000 | 576,000 | 1,446,000 |
* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).
Table 4: Labour market status (16+) by Council Area, July – September 2015
| In employment | Unemployed | Economically inactive | Total | |
| Antrim and Newtownabbey | 60,000 | * | 45,000 | 109,000 |
| Ards and North Down | 78,000 | * | 40,000 | 121,000 |
| Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon | 97,000 | * | 68,000 | 170,000 |
| Belfast | 143,000 | 11,000 | 116,000 | 269,000 |
| Causeway Coast and Glens | 59,000 | * | 47,000 | 114,000 |
| Derry and Strabane | 58,000 | 9,000 | 45,000 | 111,000 |
| Fermanagh and Omagh | 53,000 | * | 37,000 | 91,000 |
| Lisburn and Castlereagh | 65,000 | * | 40,000 | 108,000 |
| Mid and East Antrim | 57,000 | * | 55,000 | 112,000 |
| Mid Ulster | 72,000 | * | 34,000 | 109,000 |
| Newry, Mourne and Down | 76,000 | * | 49,000 | 132,000 |
| Northern Ireland | 819,000 | 52,000 | 576,000 | 1,447,000 |
* Sample size is too small to provide a reliable estimate (less than minimum quotation level of 8,000 persons).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050802%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249388"}},{"id":"249381","reference":"AQW 50799/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-27","answered":"2015-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) how Health and Social Care Trusts inform carers of their entitlement to a carers assessment; (ii) how often assessments are required to be completed; (iii) the number of carers assessments that have been completed in the last twelve months; and (iv) the number of carers, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Where it appears to a Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust that an individual is carrying out a caring role, legislation requires that the Trust notify the individual of their right to request an assessment. In addition, HSC Trusts are required to make information regarding a carer’s right to assessment widely available; this is achieved via the provision of targeted information on Trust websites, partnership arrangements with local pharmacies, GP surgeries and voluntary and community sector organisations, service wide communication strategies lead by the Carer Coordinator in each HSC Trust, and inclusion in staff training programmes to drive the improved identification of carers.\n\n(ii) Once an individual accepts the offer of a carers assessment, the assessment must be completed at a time and date suitable for the individual.\n\n(iii) From July 2014 to June 2015, there were 4,566 carers assessments accepted/completed in Northern Ireland. This information can be found published online on the DHSSPS website.\n\n(iv) The information requested is not available (previous AQW 46898/11-15 refers).","answerHtml":"Where it appears to a Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust that an individual is carrying out a caring role, legislation requires that the Trust notify the individual of their right to request an assessment. In addition, HSC Trusts are required to make information regarding a carer’s right to assessment widely available; this is achieved via the provision of targeted information on Trust websites, partnership arrangements with local pharmacies, GP surgeries and voluntary and community sector organisations, service wide communication strategies lead by the Carer Coordinator in each HSC Trust, and inclusion in staff training programmes to drive the improved identification of carers.
(ii) Once an individual accepts the offer of a carers assessment, the assessment must be completed at a time and date suitable for the individual.
(iii) From July 2014 to June 2015, there were 4,566 carers assessments accepted/completed in Northern Ireland. This information can be found published online on the DHSSPS website.
(iv) The information requested is not available (previous AQW 46898/11-15 refers).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050799%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249381","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249381"}},{"id":"249380","reference":"AQW 50798/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-27","answered":"2015-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) what targets have been set for Health and Social Care Trusts to help identify older carers; and (ii) whether any changes have been made to those targets in each of the last three years.","answerText":"No targets have been set for Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts regarding the identification of older carers.\n\nThe Carers and Direct Payments Act (NI) 2002 imposed a statutory duty on HSC Trusts to make information on the right to a carers assessment widely available, and to notify carers directly, where they become known to the Trust. Departmental Guidance Circular HSS (ECCU) 4/2006 requires that HSC Trust staff are particularly proactive in identifying the presence of older carers.","answerHtml":"No targets have been set for Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts regarding the identification of older carers.
The Carers and Direct Payments Act (NI) 2002 imposed a statutory duty on HSC Trusts to make information on the right to a carers assessment widely available, and to notify carers directly, where they become known to the Trust. Departmental Guidance Circular HSS (ECCU) 4/2006 requires that HSC Trust staff are particularly proactive in identifying the presence of older carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050798%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249380","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249380"}},{"id":"250619","reference":"AQO 9183/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline the support her Department is providing to the arts sector, following the 8 per cent in-year reduction to the Arts Council's budget.","answerText":"I have agreed to meet with a number of arts organisations over the coming weeks and I met with members of the Board of the Arts Council, including the Chair, and members of the Executive to hear at first hand what the effect of this funding reduction is likely to be and what impact this would have on the sector’s ability to deliver access to the arts for all.\n\nI will continue promoting the benefits of the arts and trying to secure more funding, not only for the arts, but for all cultural services that deliver to our people.\n\nI will also keep on doing what I can to broaden the access to and availability of arts and culture for everyone.\n\nThat is why I launched, yesterday, a consultation on a strategy for culture and arts. I hope this consultation will help me to make a resounding case for appropriate and sustainable funding for arts and culture as we move forward.","answerHtml":"I have agreed to meet with a number of arts organisations over the coming weeks and I met with members of the Board of the Arts Council, including the Chair, and members of the Executive to hear at first hand what the effect of this funding reduction is likely to be and what impact this would have on the sector’s ability to deliver access to the arts for all.
I will continue promoting the benefits of the arts and trying to secure more funding, not only for the arts, but for all cultural services that deliver to our people.
I will also keep on doing what I can to broaden the access to and availability of arts and culture for everyone.
That is why I launched, yesterday, a consultation on a strategy for culture and arts. I hope this consultation will help me to make a resounding case for appropriate and sustainable funding for arts and culture as we move forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209183%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250619","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250619"}},{"id":"250596","reference":"AQO 9159/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-12","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline how her Department is supporting local agri-food businesses in pursuing new markets.","answerText":"I am committed to opening as many new export markets for our high quality agri-food produce as possible. I visited China for a third time this year to progress trade negotiations on a range of products. My officials visited the Philippines and South Africa for the same purpose. We have recently agreed terms to trade beef with Canada. We are preparing for a range of trade inspections in early 2016 with the aim of accessing both the Australian pork market as well as the US and Philippine beef markets.\n\nMaintaining and improving our animal health status is also vital to securing trade opportunities. On 6 October 2015, the north of Ireland secured formal recognition of Officially Brucellosis Free (OBF) status from the European Commission. This is excellent news, representing a major achievement for our cattle industry and will allow us to continue to roll out progressive and proportionate reductions in our routine surveillance testing, generating savings for both industry and taxpayers.\n\nWe have a robust EU Commission approved TB eradication programme in place. This TB eradication programme continues to be a priority to ensure continued access to the export trade by our livestock and livestock products industry, which is worth over £1 billion per year. Looking ahead, I established the TB Strategic Partnership Group (TBSPG) last year to develop a long term TB eradication strategy and implementation action plan. The TBSPG has made significant progress, resulting with the completion of their interim report during the summer. I look forward to seeing the TBSPG final TB Eradication Strategy and Implementation Action Plan in due course.\n\nMy Department also sponsors the Regional Food Programme.\n\nFinally, our Livestock and Meat Commission aims to increase red meat consumption in the domestic market.","answerHtml":"I am committed to opening as many new export markets for our high quality agri-food produce as possible. I visited China for a third time this year to progress trade negotiations on a range of products. My officials visited the Philippines and South Africa for the same purpose. We have recently agreed terms to trade beef with Canada. We are preparing for a range of trade inspections in early 2016 with the aim of accessing both the Australian pork market as well as the US and Philippine beef markets.
Maintaining and improving our animal health status is also vital to securing trade opportunities. On 6 October 2015, the north of Ireland secured formal recognition of Officially Brucellosis Free (OBF) status from the European Commission. This is excellent news, representing a major achievement for our cattle industry and will allow us to continue to roll out progressive and proportionate reductions in our routine surveillance testing, generating savings for both industry and taxpayers.
We have a robust EU Commission approved TB eradication programme in place. This TB eradication programme continues to be a priority to ensure continued access to the export trade by our livestock and livestock products industry, which is worth over £1 billion per year. Looking ahead, I established the TB Strategic Partnership Group (TBSPG) last year to develop a long term TB eradication strategy and implementation action plan. The TBSPG has made significant progress, resulting with the completion of their interim report during the summer. I look forward to seeing the TBSPG final TB Eradication Strategy and Implementation Action Plan in due course.
My Department also sponsors the Regional Food Programme.
Finally, our Livestock and Meat Commission aims to increase red meat consumption in the domestic market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209159%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=250596","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=250596"}},{"id":"249234","reference":"AQW 50754/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-11","answerBy":"2015-11-26","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has given any consideration to developing a rural healthcare strategy.","answerText":"I am committed to ensuring that people in rural communities have access to quality health and social care services. My Department is working in partnership with the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) to improve services for people in rural areas.\n\nIn line with the Public Health Framework, ‘Making Life Better’, and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s ‘Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework’, the Public Health Agency collaborates with DARD on initiatives that support the needs of vulnerable rural dwellers in or at risk of poverty and social isolation and on health improvement programmes such as the ‘Maximising Access in Rural Areas’ Project and the ‘Farm Families Health Check Programme’. My Department will continue to be represented on the Interdepartmental Committee on Rural Policy.","answerHtml":"I am committed to ensuring that people in rural communities have access to quality health and social care services. My Department is working in partnership with the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) to improve services for people in rural areas.
In line with the Public Health Framework, ‘Making Life Better’, and the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development’s ‘Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework’, the Public Health Agency collaborates with DARD on initiatives that support the needs of vulnerable rural dwellers in or at risk of poverty and social isolation and on health improvement programmes such as the ‘Maximising Access in Rural Areas’ Project and the ‘Farm Families Health Check Programme’. My Department will continue to be represented on the Interdepartmental Committee on Rural Policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050754%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249234"}},{"id":"249231","reference":"AQW 50753/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-11","answerBy":"2015-11-26","answered":"2015-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on (i) dementia; and (ii) early intervention transformation programmes under the Delivering Social Change initiative.","answerText":"Progress is being made across each of the work streams in the Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative. Scoping exercises have now been completed for all of the work streams including: awareness raising , information and support; training of staff; and short breaks respite and support to carers; and the recruitment of ten dementia navigators is underway.\n\nThe Early Intervention Transformation Programme continues to make good progress as its workstreams are well established and a number of projects are now delivering services to embed early intervention approaches for the purpose of improving the lives of children in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Progress is being made across each of the work streams in the Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative. Scoping exercises have now been completed for all of the work streams including: awareness raising , information and support; training of staff; and short breaks respite and support to carers; and the recruitment of ten dementia navigators is underway.
The Early Intervention Transformation Programme continues to make good progress as its workstreams are well established and a number of projects are now delivering services to embed early intervention approaches for the purpose of improving the lives of children in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050753%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249231"}},{"id":"249212","reference":"AQW 50746/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-11","answerBy":"2015-11-26","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 49045/11-16, for her assessment of the number of farmers under the age of 30; and how young people are being encouraged and supported to invest in agri-businesses to ensure the future sustainability of this sector.","answerText":"The last time data on age within the farm labour force was collected was under the EU Farm Structure Survey (FSS) in 2013. Age data was collected in bands and unfortunately the category of interest (under 30) did not coincide with the thresholds used in the survey. The closest available group was under 35, and at that time the number was in the region of 2235. However, CAP reform has moved things on since 2013, with more young people becoming farmers. This should be reflected in the numbers when the FSS is re-run in 2016.\n\nChanges to the CAP in 2015 has seen the introduction of The Young Farmers' Payment (YFP), which provides assistance to young farmers establishing a business for the first time. Applicants must meet the eligibility conditions (which includes being under 40 years of age, having a Level II qualification and being Head of Holding ) to receive a top-up to their Basic Payment, which for 2015 equates to €81.28 per hectare. In addition, those eligible for the YFP can also apply to have the value of their Basic Payment entitlements valued at the regional average value. This will be favourable where they either have no entitlements or entitlements valued at less than the regional average.\n\nThe Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS) will be an important part of our new Rural Development Programme 2014-20. I anticipate that it will include a portfolio of measures to support sustainable growth in the sector with the objectives to improve competitiveness and productivity in farming through increased efficiency, up-skilling on farm, farm modernisation and a commitment to working with supply chain partners to improve performance. It is important that young farmers take advantage of this programme of support in the years ahead.","answerHtml":"The last time data on age within the farm labour force was collected was under the EU Farm Structure Survey (FSS) in 2013. Age data was collected in bands and unfortunately the category of interest (under 30) did not coincide with the thresholds used in the survey. The closest available group was under 35, and at that time the number was in the region of 2235. However, CAP reform has moved things on since 2013, with more young people becoming farmers. This should be reflected in the numbers when the FSS is re-run in 2016.
Changes to the CAP in 2015 has seen the introduction of The Young Farmers' Payment (YFP), which provides assistance to young farmers establishing a business for the first time. Applicants must meet the eligibility conditions (which includes being under 40 years of age, having a Level II qualification and being Head of Holding ) to receive a top-up to their Basic Payment, which for 2015 equates to €81.28 per hectare. In addition, those eligible for the YFP can also apply to have the value of their Basic Payment entitlements valued at the regional average value. This will be favourable where they either have no entitlements or entitlements valued at less than the regional average.
The Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS) will be an important part of our new Rural Development Programme 2014-20. I anticipate that it will include a portfolio of measures to support sustainable growth in the sector with the objectives to improve competitiveness and productivity in farming through increased efficiency, up-skilling on farm, farm modernisation and a commitment to working with supply chain partners to improve performance. It is important that young farmers take advantage of this programme of support in the years ahead.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050746%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249212","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249212"}},{"id":"249211","reference":"AQW 50745/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-11","answerBy":"2015-11-26","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of farm diversification in the last five years; and how her Department is supporting farm businesses to diversify in order to increase resilience against income and market volatility.","answerText":"Under Axis 3 LEADER of the NIRDP 2007-2013 some 605 farm diversification projects were funded, receiving almost £15.2m in grant aid. This when matched funding is taken into account resulted in a total investment in farm families and rural areas of £33.7m over the five years of the programme. This led to the creation of 389 new jobs in rural areas and 162 brand new businesses being set up.\n\nUnder the Priority 6 LEADER Measures of the NIRDP 2014-2020, up to £27m will be available under the Rural Business Investment Scheme, to all rural businesses including farm families. This funding will allow for new non farming rural businesses to be setup or expanded, including farm diversification businesses. This investment has the potential to further increase the number of rural jobs, with a target of 700 being set within the programme. Having the funds under one scheme means there are greater potential funds available for farm diversification if the businesses come forward.","answerHtml":"Under Axis 3 LEADER of the NIRDP 2007-2013 some 605 farm diversification projects were funded, receiving almost £15.2m in grant aid. This when matched funding is taken into account resulted in a total investment in farm families and rural areas of £33.7m over the five years of the programme. This led to the creation of 389 new jobs in rural areas and 162 brand new businesses being set up.
Under the Priority 6 LEADER Measures of the NIRDP 2014-2020, up to £27m will be available under the Rural Business Investment Scheme, to all rural businesses including farm families. This funding will allow for new non farming rural businesses to be setup or expanded, including farm diversification businesses. This investment has the potential to further increase the number of rural jobs, with a target of 700 being set within the programme. Having the funds under one scheme means there are greater potential funds available for farm diversification if the businesses come forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050745%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249211","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249211"}},{"id":"249210","reference":"AQW 50744/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-11","answerBy":"2015-11-26","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 49704/11-16, how education and training programmes to improve efficiency and increase resilience to market volatility are being made available by her Department; and how many of the 157 dairy type farms in East Londonderry have engaged with this type of programme.","answerText":"My Department, through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), offers a range of training and education programmes to all dairy farmers in East Derry. In the current year, in recognition of the issues facing dairy farms as a result of the low milk prices, a series of on-farm workshops and technical meetings have been organised by CAFRE. The focus has been on feed efficiency and finance as well as the importance of financial planning and cashflow management. All of the dairy farmers in the area received an invitation to attend one of the training events. I can confirm 38 farmers from East Derry took up the offer this year and 54 dairy farmers attended training last year.\n\nFrom1 April 2015 to 17 November 2015, 19 dairy farm businesses have completed full financial benchmarking, and CAFRE is working with a further 16 dairy businesses that have either started, or are interested in starting, the benchmarking process. CAFRE advisers are dealing with a range of technical and business queries on an on-going basis including budgeting, farm cashflow, winter feeding and dairy cow fertility. A number of the farms are receiving one to one assistance from their adviser.\n\nKnowledge transfer through Business Development Groups (BDGs) is a new training programme which is funded through the 2014-2020 Rural Development Programme. It will recruit up to 3000 like-minded farmers in group sizes of 15-20, and it aims to improve technical efficiency and business competence. I anticipate that the Groups will consider the systems of milk production which will deliver long-term sustainability for the farm family and improve resilience to price volatility. I would encourage all the dairy farmers from East Derry to apply to this Programme.","answerHtml":"My Department, through the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE), offers a range of training and education programmes to all dairy farmers in East Derry. In the current year, in recognition of the issues facing dairy farms as a result of the low milk prices, a series of on-farm workshops and technical meetings have been organised by CAFRE. The focus has been on feed efficiency and finance as well as the importance of financial planning and cashflow management. All of the dairy farmers in the area received an invitation to attend one of the training events. I can confirm 38 farmers from East Derry took up the offer this year and 54 dairy farmers attended training last year.
From1 April 2015 to 17 November 2015, 19 dairy farm businesses have completed full financial benchmarking, and CAFRE is working with a further 16 dairy businesses that have either started, or are interested in starting, the benchmarking process. CAFRE advisers are dealing with a range of technical and business queries on an on-going basis including budgeting, farm cashflow, winter feeding and dairy cow fertility. A number of the farms are receiving one to one assistance from their adviser.
Knowledge transfer through Business Development Groups (BDGs) is a new training programme which is funded through the 2014-2020 Rural Development Programme. It will recruit up to 3000 like-minded farmers in group sizes of 15-20, and it aims to improve technical efficiency and business competence. I anticipate that the Groups will consider the systems of milk production which will deliver long-term sustainability for the farm family and improve resilience to price volatility. I would encourage all the dairy farmers from East Derry to apply to this Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050744%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249210","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249210"}},{"id":"249240","reference":"AQW 50711/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-10","answerBy":"2015-11-16","answered":"2015-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment in light of Section 29 of the Planning Act (Northern Ireland) 2011, to detail why he called in and subsequently approved planning application C/2011/0459/F by Cam Burn Wind Farm Ltd.","answerText":"I refer to your previous correspondence AQW 50303/11-16 and would reiterate my previous comments.\n\nI was contacted by the applicant who outlined the recent history of the case since it had transferred to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for processing prior to 1 April 2015. My reasons for calling in the planning application were due to the planning history of this application and the particular difficulties arising from the current DETI proposals concerning the qualifying date of 30 October 2015 for the NI Renewables Obligation Scheme. I also noted the potential economic and environmental contribution from this project.\n\nIn reaching my decision I took account of the report and recommendation of my officials. I was also aware of the strong level of public representation in both objection to, and support of, the application. The key issues I considered in the determination of the application were the potential visual impact on the wider landscape of the area and the potential impact on nearby residents. Overall I considered that these impacts would not be unacceptably adverse and that the proposal met the requirements of planning policy. A Notice of Opinion to approve the application issued on 30 October 2015.\n\nThe Council has the opportunity to request a hearing within 28 days from the date of the notice. If so requested, the Department will afford it an opportunity of appearing before, and being heard by the Planning Appeals Commission. If no such request is made, the planning permission will issue. If a request is made then a planning permission would not issue until a report is received from the PAC. The final decision would still rest with the Department.","answerHtml":"I refer to your previous correspondence AQW 50303/11-16 and would reiterate my previous comments.
I was contacted by the applicant who outlined the recent history of the case since it had transferred to Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council for processing prior to 1 April 2015. My reasons for calling in the planning application were due to the planning history of this application and the particular difficulties arising from the current DETI proposals concerning the qualifying date of 30 October 2015 for the NI Renewables Obligation Scheme. I also noted the potential economic and environmental contribution from this project.
In reaching my decision I took account of the report and recommendation of my officials. I was also aware of the strong level of public representation in both objection to, and support of, the application. The key issues I considered in the determination of the application were the potential visual impact on the wider landscape of the area and the potential impact on nearby residents. Overall I considered that these impacts would not be unacceptably adverse and that the proposal met the requirements of planning policy. A Notice of Opinion to approve the application issued on 30 October 2015.
The Council has the opportunity to request a hearing within 28 days from the date of the notice. If so requested, the Department will afford it an opportunity of appearing before, and being heard by the Planning Appeals Commission. If no such request is made, the planning permission will issue. If a request is made then a planning permission would not issue until a report is received from the PAC. The final decision would still rest with the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050711%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249240"}},{"id":"249060","reference":"AQW 50684/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-10","answerBy":"2015-11-25","answered":"2015-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what discussions he has had with UK Treasury regarding the admissibility of a regional variation in the rate of VAT within the tourism and hospitality industries across the UK, which would benefit Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I have had no discussions with the UK Treasury regarding the admissibility of a regional variation in the rate of VAT within the tourism and hospitality industries across the UK, which would benefit Northern Ireland. The Finance Minister takes the lead on financial issues such as this.\n\nThe Finance Minister wrote to David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, on 15 June 2015 calling on the Government to once again consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response dated 27 July 2015, Mr Gauke responded reaffirming Her Majesty’s Treasury’s position that such a change could not be applied exclusively to Northern Ireland, and that the Government had no plans to introduce a reduced rate of VAT for tourism across the UK as a whole.","answerHtml":"I have had no discussions with the UK Treasury regarding the admissibility of a regional variation in the rate of VAT within the tourism and hospitality industries across the UK, which would benefit Northern Ireland. The Finance Minister takes the lead on financial issues such as this.
The Finance Minister wrote to David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, on 15 June 2015 calling on the Government to once again consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response dated 27 July 2015, Mr Gauke responded reaffirming Her Majesty’s Treasury’s position that such a change could not be applied exclusively to Northern Ireland, and that the Government had no plans to introduce a reduced rate of VAT for tourism across the UK as a whole.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050684%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249060"}},{"id":"249058","reference":"AQW 50683/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-10","answerBy":"2015-11-25","answered":"2015-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what discussions he has had with UK Treasury regarding the rate of VAT within the tourism and hospitality industry in Northern Ireland; and to detail the outcomes of these discussions.","answerText":"I have had no discussions with the UK Treasury regarding the rate of VAT within the tourism and hospitality industry in Northern Ireland. The Finance Minister takes the lead on financial issues such as this.\n\nThe Finance Minister wrote to David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, on 15 June 2015 calling on the Government to once again consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response dated 27 July 2015, Mr Gauke responded reaffirming Her Majesty’s Treasury’s position that such a change could not be applied exclusively to Northern Ireland, and that the Government had no plans to introduce a reduced rate of VAT for tourism across the UK as a whole.","answerHtml":"I have had no discussions with the UK Treasury regarding the rate of VAT within the tourism and hospitality industry in Northern Ireland. The Finance Minister takes the lead on financial issues such as this.
The Finance Minister wrote to David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, on 15 June 2015 calling on the Government to once again consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response dated 27 July 2015, Mr Gauke responded reaffirming Her Majesty’s Treasury’s position that such a change could not be applied exclusively to Northern Ireland, and that the Government had no plans to introduce a reduced rate of VAT for tourism across the UK as a whole.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050683%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249058"}},{"id":"249056","reference":"AQW 50681/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-10","answerBy":"2015-11-25","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her Department's definition of a rural village, including the maximum population size and proximity to an urban centre.","answerText":"For the purposes of the NIRDP, rural areas are defined as all those areas identified outside the statutory development limits of those towns and settlements with a population in excess of 5,000 inhabitants. To allow for a more flexible approach my Department does not apply any further definitions below 5,000. This can be further defined by Local Action Groups if they wish, however they must provide a rationale within their Local Rural Development Strategy to support this. Where the thirty miles per speed limit starts is used to define where the boundary of any settlement starts.","answerHtml":"For the purposes of the NIRDP, rural areas are defined as all those areas identified outside the statutory development limits of those towns and settlements with a population in excess of 5,000 inhabitants. To allow for a more flexible approach my Department does not apply any further definitions below 5,000. This can be further defined by Local Action Groups if they wish, however they must provide a rationale within their Local Rural Development Strategy to support this. Where the thirty miles per speed limit starts is used to define where the boundary of any settlement starts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050681%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249056"}},{"id":"249054","reference":"AQW 50680/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-10","answerBy":"2015-11-25","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development when the rural Business Investment Scheme (BIS) will open for applications; and how her Department is disseminating information on the rural BIS to potential applicants.","answerText":"Local Action Groups (LAGs) are currently developing their Local Development Strategies which are to be submitted to DARD by 31st December 2015. Once the strategies have been approved and contracts are in place the LAGs will be able to open calls, hopefully early in the new year.\n\nIt is the responsibility of the LAGs to hold funding workshops, this is the first stage of opening for applications. At these events LAGs will advise potential applicants on eligibility and the pre application documentation that they need before applying for funding, such as a business plan. Funding workshops will be advertised by the LAGs using local press, media, social media and any business and community networks. Once workshops are complete in a LAG area the LAG will advertise that it is open to receive online applications. My Department will also provide information on calls for applications through the DARD website and the LEADER facebook page.","answerHtml":"Local Action Groups (LAGs) are currently developing their Local Development Strategies which are to be submitted to DARD by 31st December 2015. Once the strategies have been approved and contracts are in place the LAGs will be able to open calls, hopefully early in the new year.
It is the responsibility of the LAGs to hold funding workshops, this is the first stage of opening for applications. At these events LAGs will advise potential applicants on eligibility and the pre application documentation that they need before applying for funding, such as a business plan. Funding workshops will be advertised by the LAGs using local press, media, social media and any business and community networks. Once workshops are complete in a LAG area the LAG will advertise that it is open to receive online applications. My Department will also provide information on calls for applications through the DARD website and the LEADER facebook page.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050680%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249054"}},{"id":"248912","reference":"AQW 50607/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-09","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 48792/11-16, to detail which of the eighteen strategic priorities remain outstanding; and whether (i) data; and (ii) indicators have been identified to measure progress against each of the priorities.","answerText":"Since the publication of the Executive’s Disability Strategy in February 2013, Government departments have taken forward a number of actions to improve the lives of people with disabilities. These actions are highlighted in the first report on the implementation of the strategy, which is available on our Department’s website at: http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-report-2013-2014.pdf\n\nIn May of this year, we extended the lifetime of the Strategy until March 2017 to ensure that focus remains, and to give additional time for priority areas in the strategy to be progressed.\n\nFollowing a public consultation exercise, we are currently developing a set of indicators to measure progress on the implementation of the Strategy.","answerHtml":"Since the publication of the Executive’s Disability Strategy in February 2013, Government departments have taken forward a number of actions to improve the lives of people with disabilities. These actions are highlighted in the first report on the implementation of the strategy, which is available on our Department’s website at: http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-report-2013-2014.pdf
In May of this year, we extended the lifetime of the Strategy until March 2017 to ensure that focus remains, and to give additional time for priority areas in the strategy to be progressed.
Following a public consultation exercise, we are currently developing a set of indicators to measure progress on the implementation of the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050607%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248912","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248912"}},{"id":"248911","reference":"AQW 50606/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-09","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 50112/11-16, (i) to detail the specific suicide prevention services that have targeted at risk groups in each of the last three years; (ii) for his assessment of their effectiveness; and (iii) how he intends to deliver preventative services in future.","answerText":"A wide range of groups are at increased risk of suicide including: those bereaved by suicide; people who self harm; people with a mental health condition; prisoners; people in specific occupations; and the long term unemployed. General suicide prevention services are relevant to the needs of these groups. In addition, specific services include: bereavement support; intervention for people who self harm; mental health crisis response services; the Card Before You Leave protocol; awareness raising for farmers; outreach for young men; and training for custody and prison staff.\n\nThe Public Health Agency commissions evidence-based suicide prevention services which are known to be effective and has introduced Quality Standards for the delivery and evaluation of these services.\n\nA new strategy is being developed and will be issued for public consultation in 2016. It will be in two parts, the first covering frontline intervention and postvention, and the second covering early intervention to promote mental health.","answerHtml":"A wide range of groups are at increased risk of suicide including: those bereaved by suicide; people who self harm; people with a mental health condition; prisoners; people in specific occupations; and the long term unemployed. General suicide prevention services are relevant to the needs of these groups. In addition, specific services include: bereavement support; intervention for people who self harm; mental health crisis response services; the Card Before You Leave protocol; awareness raising for farmers; outreach for young men; and training for custody and prison staff.
The Public Health Agency commissions evidence-based suicide prevention services which are known to be effective and has introduced Quality Standards for the delivery and evaluation of these services.
A new strategy is being developed and will be issued for public consultation in 2016. It will be in two parts, the first covering frontline intervention and postvention, and the second covering early intervention to promote mental health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050606%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248911","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248911"}},{"id":"248910","reference":"AQW 50605/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-09","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the (i) the community Meals on Wheels service in all Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) implementation of the proposed changes within the Western Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"All HSC Trusts continue to provide a community meals service to service users who have no other means of providing their own meals. The South Eastern HSC Trust introduced a new cook chilled service in October 2015.\n\nThe Western HSC Trust is currently reviewing its community meals service and is exploring options for delivery with guidance from dietetics and food standards professionals. It is aiming to have new arrangements in place by July 2016.","answerHtml":"All HSC Trusts continue to provide a community meals service to service users who have no other means of providing their own meals. The South Eastern HSC Trust introduced a new cook chilled service in October 2015.
The Western HSC Trust is currently reviewing its community meals service and is exploring options for delivery with guidance from dietetics and food standards professionals. It is aiming to have new arrangements in place by July 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050605%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248910"}},{"id":"248884","reference":"AQW 50589/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-09","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline (i) the process for appointing the Agri-Food Strategy Board; (ii) the independence of the Board collectively; and (iii) the independence of individual members of the Board to fulfil the role.","answerText":"The Chair and industry members of the Agri-Food Strategy Board (AFSB) were appointed on merit following an open competition conducted in accordance with the spirit of the CPANI Code of Practice. This included the presence on the assessment panel of a CPANI affiliated independent Panel Member. The criteria used to appoint members were as follows:\n\nA proven track record of contributing successfully at Board level to the strategic direction of a complex organisation;\n\nA proven ability to work at a strategic level with stakeholders from different perspectives to agree a common strategy and evaluate and monitor progress against agreed targets; and\n\nA good knowledge of the issues facing the local economy and a good understanding of the strategic issues facing the local agri-food industry.\n\nI made the appointments jointly with the DETI Minister.\n\nIn line with the CPANI guidance, a public appointee may be reappointed for a second term subject to evidence of effective performance, continued adherence to the principles of public life, and a willingness to continue in post. The AFSB Chair and members were reappointed for a further 2 year term until 19 February 2017.\n\nThere are also 4 ex-officio members of the Agri Food Strategy Board, appointed as representatives of DARD, DETI, and Invest NI.\n\nThe Chair and industry Members were appointed on the basis of their skills and experience to develop a strategic plan for the agri-food sector, rather than to ensure that specific sectors, or elements of the supply chain were represented. They act independently from the Departments.\n\n(iii)As part of the appointment process Members committed to uphold the seven principles of public life as defined by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, which commit to independence through selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.\n\nMembers also committed to disclose all actual or potential conflicts of interest to DARD or DETI as they arise. DETI/Invest NI and DARD’s internal procedures to deal with such issues are sufficiently robust to guard against any actual, potential or perceived conflict in relation to any of the industry members.","answerHtml":"The Chair and industry members of the Agri-Food Strategy Board (AFSB) were appointed on merit following an open competition conducted in accordance with the spirit of the CPANI Code of Practice. This included the presence on the assessment panel of a CPANI affiliated independent Panel Member. The criteria used to appoint members were as follows:
A proven track record of contributing successfully at Board level to the strategic direction of a complex organisation;
A proven ability to work at a strategic level with stakeholders from different perspectives to agree a common strategy and evaluate and monitor progress against agreed targets; and
A good knowledge of the issues facing the local economy and a good understanding of the strategic issues facing the local agri-food industry.
I made the appointments jointly with the DETI Minister.
In line with the CPANI guidance, a public appointee may be reappointed for a second term subject to evidence of effective performance, continued adherence to the principles of public life, and a willingness to continue in post. The AFSB Chair and members were reappointed for a further 2 year term until 19 February 2017.
There are also 4 ex-officio members of the Agri Food Strategy Board, appointed as representatives of DARD, DETI, and Invest NI.
The Chair and industry Members were appointed on the basis of their skills and experience to develop a strategic plan for the agri-food sector, rather than to ensure that specific sectors, or elements of the supply chain were represented. They act independently from the Departments.
(iii)As part of the appointment process Members committed to uphold the seven principles of public life as defined by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, which commit to independence through selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Members also committed to disclose all actual or potential conflicts of interest to DARD or DETI as they arise. DETI/Invest NI and DARD’s internal procedures to deal with such issues are sufficiently robust to guard against any actual, potential or perceived conflict in relation to any of the industry members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050589%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248884","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248884"}},{"id":"248883","reference":"AQW 50588/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-09","answerBy":"2015-11-24","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline (i) the process for appointing the Agri-Food Strategy Board; (ii) the independence of the Board collectively; and (iii) the independence of individual members of the Board to fulfil the role.","answerText":"(i)The Chair and industry members of the AFSB were originally appointed on merit following an open competition conducted in accordance with the spirit of the The Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland Code of Practice (CPANI). This included the presence on the assessment panel of a CPANI affiliated independent Panel Member. The criteria used to appoint members were as follows:\n\nA proven track record of contributing successfully at Board level to the strategic direction of a complex organisation;\n\nA proven ability to work at a strategic level with stakeholders from different perspectives to agree a common strategy and evaluate and monitor progress against agreed targets; and\n\nA good knowledge of the issues facing the local economy and a good understanding of the strategic issues facing the local agri-food industry.\n\nIn line with the CPANI guidance, a public appointee may be reappointed for a second term subject to evidence of effective performance, continued adherence to the principles of public life, and a willingness to continue in post. The AFSB Chair and members were reappointed for a further 2 year term until 19 February 2017. There are also 4 ex-officio members of the Agri Food Strategy Board, appointed as representatives of DETI, Invest NI and DARD.\n\n(ii)The Chair and Industry Members were appointed on the basis of their skills and experience to develop a strategic plan for the agri-food sector, rather than to ensure that specific sectors, or elements of the supply chain were represented. They act independently from the Departments.\n\n(iii) As part of the appointment process Members committed to uphold the seven principles of public life as defined by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, which commit to independence through selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.\n\nMembers also committed to disclose all actual or potential conflicts of interests to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development or the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment as they arise. DETI/Invest NI and DARD’s internal procedures to deal with such issues are sufficiently robust to guard against any actual or potential conflict affecting any of the industry members.","answerHtml":"(i)The Chair and industry members of the AFSB were originally appointed on merit following an open competition conducted in accordance with the spirit of the The Commissioner for Public Appointments for Northern Ireland Code of Practice (CPANI). This included the presence on the assessment panel of a CPANI affiliated independent Panel Member. The criteria used to appoint members were as follows:
A proven track record of contributing successfully at Board level to the strategic direction of a complex organisation;
A proven ability to work at a strategic level with stakeholders from different perspectives to agree a common strategy and evaluate and monitor progress against agreed targets; and
A good knowledge of the issues facing the local economy and a good understanding of the strategic issues facing the local agri-food industry.
In line with the CPANI guidance, a public appointee may be reappointed for a second term subject to evidence of effective performance, continued adherence to the principles of public life, and a willingness to continue in post. The AFSB Chair and members were reappointed for a further 2 year term until 19 February 2017. There are also 4 ex-officio members of the Agri Food Strategy Board, appointed as representatives of DETI, Invest NI and DARD.
(ii)The Chair and Industry Members were appointed on the basis of their skills and experience to develop a strategic plan for the agri-food sector, rather than to ensure that specific sectors, or elements of the supply chain were represented. They act independently from the Departments.
(iii) As part of the appointment process Members committed to uphold the seven principles of public life as defined by the Committee on Standards in Public Life, which commit to independence through selflessness, integrity, objectivity, accountability, openness, honesty and leadership.
Members also committed to disclose all actual or potential conflicts of interests to the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development or the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment as they arise. DETI/Invest NI and DARD’s internal procedures to deal with such issues are sufficiently robust to guard against any actual or potential conflict affecting any of the industry members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050588%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248883","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248883"}},{"id":"248824","reference":"AQW 50546/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-06","answerBy":"2015-11-23","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail how her Department will consult with local small and medium sized businesses regarding a non-domestic rates review.","answerText":"Rating Policy Division is not responsible for assessing and supporting the needs of small business in Northern Ireland.\n\nHowever, its role is to advise on ways in which the rating system can be made more responsive and acceptable to the business community. This work is currently being undertaken through the ongoing review of business rates.\n\nI would hope that as many individuals as possible respond to the consultation over the coming weeks though bear in mind that 98% of businesses in Northern Ireland are classified as small and medium sized businesses.\n\nClearly it is not possible to consult with each and every business individually and my Department is relying on a full engagement with business organisations to represent their views. This process has already begun and the direction of the review was set by the representative organisations who participated in the 4 day Innovation Lab in June this year. Attending that event were representatives from the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Directors, NI Manufacturing, the Chamber of Commerce and the Association of Town and City Management.\n\nFollow up meetings were also held with organisations who could not attend including the NI Independent Retailers Association (NIIRTA) and the CBI.\n\nSince the consultation began on 26 October, preliminary and informal meetings have been held with Hospitality Ulster, NI Manufacturing, the NI Independent Retailers Association and the Federation of Small Businesses. The latter meeting involved the FSB’s national policy expert on business rates. This process will continue throughout the consultation period until 25 January.\n\nThere are also 3 seminars or conferences scheduled for December and January arranged separately by the Federation of Small Businesses, the NI Local Government Association and the NI Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA).","answerHtml":"Rating Policy Division is not responsible for assessing and supporting the needs of small business in Northern Ireland.
However, its role is to advise on ways in which the rating system can be made more responsive and acceptable to the business community. This work is currently being undertaken through the ongoing review of business rates.
I would hope that as many individuals as possible respond to the consultation over the coming weeks though bear in mind that 98% of businesses in Northern Ireland are classified as small and medium sized businesses.
Clearly it is not possible to consult with each and every business individually and my Department is relying on a full engagement with business organisations to represent their views. This process has already begun and the direction of the review was set by the representative organisations who participated in the 4 day Innovation Lab in June this year. Attending that event were representatives from the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Directors, NI Manufacturing, the Chamber of Commerce and the Association of Town and City Management.
Follow up meetings were also held with organisations who could not attend including the NI Independent Retailers Association (NIIRTA) and the CBI.
Since the consultation began on 26 October, preliminary and informal meetings have been held with Hospitality Ulster, NI Manufacturing, the NI Independent Retailers Association and the Federation of Small Businesses. The latter meeting involved the FSB’s national policy expert on business rates. This process will continue throughout the consultation period until 25 January.
There are also 3 seminars or conferences scheduled for December and January arranged separately by the Federation of Small Businesses, the NI Local Government Association and the NI Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050546%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248824","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248824"}},{"id":"248823","reference":"AQW 50545/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-06","answerBy":"2015-11-23","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to outline the role of the Rating Policy Division.","answerText":"Rating Policy Division is a small unit of 6 staff and forms part of the Strategic Policy and Reform Directorate within DFP. Its role is to provide advice to the Finance Minister on rating policy, to develop, then appraise and evaluate, new policy issues; to take forward the annual Regional Rates Order (to reflect Executive decisions made as part of the annual budget process) and prepare all rating and valuation legislation taken forward by DFP.","answerHtml":"Rating Policy Division is a small unit of 6 staff and forms part of the Strategic Policy and Reform Directorate within DFP. Its role is to provide advice to the Finance Minister on rating policy, to develop, then appraise and evaluate, new policy issues; to take forward the annual Regional Rates Order (to reflect Executive decisions made as part of the annual budget process) and prepare all rating and valuation legislation taken forward by DFP.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050545%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248823","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248823"}},{"id":"248822","reference":"AQW 50544/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-06","answerBy":"2015-11-23","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail how the Rating Policy Division assess and supports the needs of small businesses.","answerText":"Rating Policy Division is not responsible for assessing and supporting the needs of small business in Northern Ireland.\n\nHowever, its role is to advise on ways in which the rating system can be made more responsive and acceptable to the business community. This work is currently being undertaken through the ongoing review of business rates.\n\nI would hope that as many individuals as possible respond to the consultation over the coming weeks though bear in mind that 98% of businesses in Northern Ireland are classified as small and medium sized businesses.\n\nClearly it is not possible to consult with each and every business individually and my Department is relying on a full engagement with business organisations to represent their views. This process has already begun and the direction of the review was set by the representative organisations who participated in the 4 day Innovation Lab in June this year. Attending that event were representatives from the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Directors, NI Manufacturing, the Chamber of Commerce and the Association of Town and City Management.\n\nFollow up meetings were also held with organisations who could not attend including the NI Independent Retailers Association (NIIRTA) and the CBI.\n\nSince the consultation began on 26 October, preliminary and informal meetings have been held with Hospitality Ulster, NI Manufacturing, the NI Independent Retailers Association and the Federation of Small Businesses. The latter meeting involved the FSB’s national policy expert on business rates. This process will continue throughout the consultation period until 25 January.\n\nThere are also 3 seminars or conferences scheduled for December and January arranged separately by the Federation of Small Businesses, the NI Local Government Association and the NI Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA).","answerHtml":"Rating Policy Division is not responsible for assessing and supporting the needs of small business in Northern Ireland.
However, its role is to advise on ways in which the rating system can be made more responsive and acceptable to the business community. This work is currently being undertaken through the ongoing review of business rates.
I would hope that as many individuals as possible respond to the consultation over the coming weeks though bear in mind that 98% of businesses in Northern Ireland are classified as small and medium sized businesses.
Clearly it is not possible to consult with each and every business individually and my Department is relying on a full engagement with business organisations to represent their views. This process has already begun and the direction of the review was set by the representative organisations who participated in the 4 day Innovation Lab in June this year. Attending that event were representatives from the Federation of Small Businesses, the Institute of Directors, NI Manufacturing, the Chamber of Commerce and the Association of Town and City Management.
Follow up meetings were also held with organisations who could not attend including the NI Independent Retailers Association (NIIRTA) and the CBI.
Since the consultation began on 26 October, preliminary and informal meetings have been held with Hospitality Ulster, NI Manufacturing, the NI Independent Retailers Association and the Federation of Small Businesses. The latter meeting involved the FSB’s national policy expert on business rates. This process will continue throughout the consultation period until 25 January.
There are also 3 seminars or conferences scheduled for December and January arranged separately by the Federation of Small Businesses, the NI Local Government Association and the NI Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050544%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248822"}},{"id":"248821","reference":"AQW 50543/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-06","answerBy":"2015-11-23","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether her Department plans to implement the recommendations of the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association 15 point plan for cutting the costs to businesses.","answerText":"As the Member is aware, my Department recently launched a twelve week consultation exercise on a wide ranging Business Rates review. This will consider the issue of business rates within a wider strategic context. Stakeholders such as NIIRTA are invited to provide input on the direction of business rates in Northern Ireland and I expect they will put forward the rating policy proposals set out in their 15 point plan.\n\nThis review is not to raise more money from businesses. We all want to keep rates as low and as acceptable for ratepayers throughout Northern Ireland but we still need to get the money in to pay for the public services that our businesses and citizens need; such as our health, education, policing and roads systems.\n\nI note that 8 or 9 of the 15 points in NIIRTA’s plan relate to measures designed to reduce rates for its members and these can be carefully considered as part and parcel of the review. There are no suggestions, however, as to how they can be implemented without jeopardising our public finances. Perhaps this will emerge during the consultation, as rates reductions for one group inevitably mean that some else has to pay more, if our public services are not to suffer.\n\nOne final point I would like to make. NIIRTA’s 15 point plan states that 45% of our members’ rate bills were increased by between 20-200% following the Revaluation. This is far from the case. The impact of the Revaluation has been widely publicised this year by LPS, as you will be aware from the answers you have been given to a whole series of Assembly questions.","answerHtml":"As the Member is aware, my Department recently launched a twelve week consultation exercise on a wide ranging Business Rates review. This will consider the issue of business rates within a wider strategic context. Stakeholders such as NIIRTA are invited to provide input on the direction of business rates in Northern Ireland and I expect they will put forward the rating policy proposals set out in their 15 point plan.
This review is not to raise more money from businesses. We all want to keep rates as low and as acceptable for ratepayers throughout Northern Ireland but we still need to get the money in to pay for the public services that our businesses and citizens need; such as our health, education, policing and roads systems.
I note that 8 or 9 of the 15 points in NIIRTA’s plan relate to measures designed to reduce rates for its members and these can be carefully considered as part and parcel of the review. There are no suggestions, however, as to how they can be implemented without jeopardising our public finances. Perhaps this will emerge during the consultation, as rates reductions for one group inevitably mean that some else has to pay more, if our public services are not to suffer.
One final point I would like to make. NIIRTA’s 15 point plan states that 45% of our members’ rate bills were increased by between 20-200% following the Revaluation. This is far from the case. The impact of the Revaluation has been widely publicised this year by LPS, as you will be aware from the answers you have been given to a whole series of Assembly questions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050543%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248821","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248821"}},{"id":"248820","reference":"AQW 50542/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-06","answerBy":"2015-11-23","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how her Department is supporting small and medium sized businesses to cut their business costs.","answerText":"My Department provides direct support to small and medium sized businesses by reducing their rates burden through a number of schemes.\n\nSince introducing Small Business Rate Relief in response to the economic downturn in April 2010, 35,000 businesses have benefitted from a reduction in their rates liability. By the end of 2015/16 rating year around £100m of support will have been provided through this scheme.\n\nSince April 2012 almost 500 businesses have been set up in empty units on our High Streets through the Empty Shops Rates Concession. This was a policy designed and put in place in Northern Ireland and then subsequently copied in all other regions of the UK. The policy sees 50% rate relief provided to new businesses in their first year of trading where they occupy a long term vacant unit.\n\nIndustrial derating, continues to provide 70% rates relief to manufacturing businesses of all sizes in Northern Ireland at a cost of around £60m per annum in revenue forgone.\n\nIn addition many business ratepayers who would otherwise have faced excessive rises in their rates bill as a result of local government reform are receiving assistance from the District Rates Convergence Scheme.\n\nIn addition to these schemes, business ratepayers have benefited from a regional rate freeze throughout the previous budget period.","answerHtml":"My Department provides direct support to small and medium sized businesses by reducing their rates burden through a number of schemes.
Since introducing Small Business Rate Relief in response to the economic downturn in April 2010, 35,000 businesses have benefitted from a reduction in their rates liability. By the end of 2015/16 rating year around £100m of support will have been provided through this scheme.
Since April 2012 almost 500 businesses have been set up in empty units on our High Streets through the Empty Shops Rates Concession. This was a policy designed and put in place in Northern Ireland and then subsequently copied in all other regions of the UK. The policy sees 50% rate relief provided to new businesses in their first year of trading where they occupy a long term vacant unit.
Industrial derating, continues to provide 70% rates relief to manufacturing businesses of all sizes in Northern Ireland at a cost of around £60m per annum in revenue forgone.
In addition many business ratepayers who would otherwise have faced excessive rises in their rates bill as a result of local government reform are receiving assistance from the District Rates Convergence Scheme.
In addition to these schemes, business ratepayers have benefited from a regional rate freeze throughout the previous budget period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050542%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248820","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248820"}},{"id":"248546","reference":"AQW 50431/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-20","answered":"2015-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether children starting school later than four years of age can be placed in a year group which is different to their own chronological year.","answerText":"Parents of children who did not start school at four years of age, and were educated outside the formal school system, can apply for a place in a grant-aided school at any time. A child applying for admission to a school would be admitted to his/her chronological age group.\n\nNevertheless, the flexibility does exist for children to move outside their chronological age group. Any such decision is made by a school’s Board of Governors, taking into account the views of parents, the Principal and the Education Authority. This could see a child moving to a year group below his/her chronological age or to a year group above his/her chronological age.","answerHtml":"Parents of children who did not start school at four years of age, and were educated outside the formal school system, can apply for a place in a grant-aided school at any time. A child applying for admission to a school would be admitted to his/her chronological age group.
Nevertheless, the flexibility does exist for children to move outside their chronological age group. Any such decision is made by a school’s Board of Governors, taking into account the views of parents, the Principal and the Education Authority. This could see a child moving to a year group below his/her chronological age or to a year group above his/her chronological age.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050431%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248546","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248546"}},{"id":"248544","reference":"AQW 50430/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-20","answered":"2015-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the rationale behind recent departmental guidance that makes four years the compulsory school starting age; and (ii) what support is available for primary schools to put in place different arrangements for individual Year 1 children that find starting school challenging.","answerText":"The date of commencement of compulsory school age is defined in the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986, as amended by the Education Reform (NI) Order 1989, changing school starting age from five to four. This was to take account of the fact that many parents enrolled their children at four years of age and was to ensure that all children had access to an equal number of years of school. A cut off date of 1 July, provided clarity for parents and schools on the beginning of compulsory school age that was common to all children rather than relying on the date of birth of the individual child.\n\nI understand that, for a variety of reasons, some children may have more difficulty settling into primary school than others. My Department issued guidance on 14 April 2015 on “Induction and Transition to Year 1 of Primary School” which noted that for these children, primary schools may need to put in place different arrangements for induction and transition to P1 to take account of the individual circumstances of the child.","answerHtml":"The date of commencement of compulsory school age is defined in the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986, as amended by the Education Reform (NI) Order 1989, changing school starting age from five to four. This was to take account of the fact that many parents enrolled their children at four years of age and was to ensure that all children had access to an equal number of years of school. A cut off date of 1 July, provided clarity for parents and schools on the beginning of compulsory school age that was common to all children rather than relying on the date of birth of the individual child.
I understand that, for a variety of reasons, some children may have more difficulty settling into primary school than others. My Department issued guidance on 14 April 2015 on “Induction and Transition to Year 1 of Primary School” which noted that for these children, primary schools may need to put in place different arrangements for induction and transition to P1 to take account of the individual circumstances of the child.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050430%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248544","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248544"}},{"id":"248543","reference":"AQW 50429/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-20","answered":"2015-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for his assessment of the issue that not all children are ready to start formal schooling at four years of age; (ii) to detail how parental concerns that their child is not ready to start school is addressed in the new guidance on school starting age; and (iii) whether he plans to introduce any flexibility on school starting ages in the future.","answerText":"The foundation stage of the curriculum is specifically designed to provide an age-appropriate education for pupils in Years 1 and 2. The foundation stage provides teachers with flexibility to use their professional judgement and adapt their teaching to best meet the needs of their pupils and to provide for diagnostic assessment, which will provide greater opportunities for teachers to pick up earlier on pupils with particular difficulties.\n\nThe Education Authority published its “School Starting Age – A Guide for Parents” on 29 October 2015. This guidance covers a range of issues associated with school starting age, including advice for parents who are worried that their child is not ready to start school.\n\nI have said before that I am keen to introduce flexibility on school starting age in certain circumstances but this will require a change to primary legislation.","answerHtml":"The foundation stage of the curriculum is specifically designed to provide an age-appropriate education for pupils in Years 1 and 2. The foundation stage provides teachers with flexibility to use their professional judgement and adapt their teaching to best meet the needs of their pupils and to provide for diagnostic assessment, which will provide greater opportunities for teachers to pick up earlier on pupils with particular difficulties.
The Education Authority published its “School Starting Age – A Guide for Parents” on 29 October 2015. This guidance covers a range of issues associated with school starting age, including advice for parents who are worried that their child is not ready to start school.
I have said before that I am keen to introduce flexibility on school starting age in certain circumstances but this will require a change to primary legislation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050429%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248543"}},{"id":"248539","reference":"AQW 50428/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-20","answered":"2015-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, under current legislation, (i) whether parents can place their child in a private pre-school for an additional year; and if so, (ii) to detail the circumstances which allow this to take place.","answerText":"Current legislation does not enable parents to defer their child's starting age. Article 45 of the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986 states that the parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him/her to receive full time education suitable to his/her age, ability, aptitude and to any special educational needs he/she may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.\n\nThe most common way that parents do this is by sending their child to school when they reach compulsory school age. However, parents can decide to make their own arrangements when their child reaches compulsory school age and attendance at a non-funded/private pre-school may form part of these arrangements. Parents making these arrangements would be required to meet the cost of a pre-school place.\n\nIf at any stage it appears to the Education Authority (EA) that a parent is not meeting the duty as set out above, the EA will write to the parents asking them to demonstrate that their child is receiving suitable full time education.","answerHtml":"Current legislation does not enable parents to defer their child's starting age. Article 45 of the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986 states that the parent of every child of compulsory school age shall cause him/her to receive full time education suitable to his/her age, ability, aptitude and to any special educational needs he/she may have, either by regular attendance at school or otherwise.
The most common way that parents do this is by sending their child to school when they reach compulsory school age. However, parents can decide to make their own arrangements when their child reaches compulsory school age and attendance at a non-funded/private pre-school may form part of these arrangements. Parents making these arrangements would be required to meet the cost of a pre-school place.
If at any stage it appears to the Education Authority (EA) that a parent is not meeting the duty as set out above, the EA will write to the parents asking them to demonstrate that their child is receiving suitable full time education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050428%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248539","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248539"}},{"id":"248538","reference":"AQW 50427/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-20","answered":"2015-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 50162/11-16, in which month is the review due for completion.","answerText":"We are unable to confirm which month, but can confirm that the review will be completed in the first quarter of 2016.","answerHtml":"We are unable to confirm which month, but can confirm that the review will be completed in the first quarter of 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050427%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248538","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248538"}},{"id":"248495","reference":"AQO 9113/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-17","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice why his Department has only met the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland on two occasions since 2012 to discuss both crime and the fear of crime amongst older people.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209113%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248495"}},{"id":"249964","reference":"AQO 9113/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-05","answerBy":"2015-11-17","answered":"2015-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice why his Department has only met the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland on two occasions since 2012 to discuss both crime and the fear of crime amongst older people.","answerText":"The formal meetings with the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland to which the Member refers do not represent the full extent of the work which my Department has taken forward to address fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people.\n\nMembers will be aware from previous questions of the work my Department has undertaken to address fear of crime, including through the Older Persons Delivery Group, established to take forward actions to address fear of crime under the Community Safety Strategy. This group, chaired by my Department, includes a range of statutory and non-statutory bodies.\n\nThe Office of the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland was previously invited to provide representation on the Older Persons Delivery Group, but was not in a position to take up the offer at that time. My officials continue to liaise with the Commissioner’s staff as required on issues around fear of crime.\n\nMy Department works closely with Age Sector Platform, a voluntary sector organisation which has a membership of individuals and older people’s groups across Northern Ireland, representing approximately 200,000 people. Age Sector Platform engages with the Office of the Commissioner on broader issues affecting older people.\n\nMy Department recently supported Age Sector Platform in the development of their “Feel Safe” guide, which has a particular focus on practical measures that older people can take to avoid becoming a victim of opportunistic crime such as burglary and bogus callers.\n\nAge Sector Platform is currently working with my Department on the development and delivery of workshops on a regional basis to promote the messages in this guide and to address the concerns that older people have around crime. These workshops will include a range of advice on how they can avoid becoming victims of crime, and representation from key providers of advice such as the Trading Standards Service.","answerHtml":"The formal meetings with the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland to which the Member refers do not represent the full extent of the work which my Department has taken forward to address fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people.
Members will be aware from previous questions of the work my Department has undertaken to address fear of crime, including through the Older Persons Delivery Group, established to take forward actions to address fear of crime under the Community Safety Strategy. This group, chaired by my Department, includes a range of statutory and non-statutory bodies.
The Office of the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland was previously invited to provide representation on the Older Persons Delivery Group, but was not in a position to take up the offer at that time. My officials continue to liaise with the Commissioner’s staff as required on issues around fear of crime.
My Department works closely with Age Sector Platform, a voluntary sector organisation which has a membership of individuals and older people’s groups across Northern Ireland, representing approximately 200,000 people. Age Sector Platform engages with the Office of the Commissioner on broader issues affecting older people.
My Department recently supported Age Sector Platform in the development of their “Feel Safe” guide, which has a particular focus on practical measures that older people can take to avoid becoming a victim of opportunistic crime such as burglary and bogus callers.
Age Sector Platform is currently working with my Department on the development and delivery of workshops on a regional basis to promote the messages in this guide and to address the concerns that older people have around crime. These workshops will include a range of advice on how they can avoid becoming victims of crime, and representation from key providers of advice such as the Trading Standards Service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%209113%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=249964","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=249964"}},{"id":"248356","reference":"AQW 50374/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-04","answerBy":"2015-11-09","answered":"2015-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment whether he has issued formal written approval for planning application C/2011/0459/F; and if so, to detail the date it was issued.","answerText":"On 30 October 2015 I issued a Notice of Opinion to approve planning permission. The notice indicates the decision the Department proposes to take on a planning application. The notice was served on both the applicant and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. If so requested by the applicant or the council within 28 days from the date of the notice, the Department will afford each of them an opportunity of appearing before, and being heard by the Planning Appeals Commission. If no such request is made, the planning permission will issue. If a request is made then a planning permission would not issue until a report is received from the PAC. The final decision would still rest with the Department.","answerHtml":"On 30 October 2015 I issued a Notice of Opinion to approve planning permission. The notice indicates the decision the Department proposes to take on a planning application. The notice was served on both the applicant and Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. If so requested by the applicant or the council within 28 days from the date of the notice, the Department will afford each of them an opportunity of appearing before, and being heard by the Planning Appeals Commission. If no such request is made, the planning permission will issue. If a request is made then a planning permission would not issue until a report is received from the PAC. The final decision would still rest with the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050374%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248356"}},{"id":"248353","reference":"AQW 50371/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-04","answerBy":"2015-11-19","answered":"2015-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how she will ensure that the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute 2020 Strategy complements the plans set out in her Department’s Going for Growth strategy.","answerText":"AFBI, like the rest of my Department, are subject to the budget constraints as a result of the Tory Government’s cuts to the Executive’s block grant. However, AFBI has defined its strategic priorities taking on board the ambitions of the Going for Growth strategy and has articulated its desire to grow its funding from other sources using the very substantial budget allocation that it continues to receive from DARD as the platform from which to leverage this additional funding. I welcome this approach, which is entirely consistent with the ambitions set out in Going for Growth.\n\nWe are currently developing some very exciting plans for the AFBI estate which would see AFBI consolidating onto a smaller number of sites with modern, efficient, leading edge facilities. Such facilities will underpin AFBI’s scientific capabilities and its ability to bring in income from external sources. I hope to be in a position to bid for substantial capital funding to begin to deliver these plans during the next budget period.","answerHtml":"AFBI, like the rest of my Department, are subject to the budget constraints as a result of the Tory Government’s cuts to the Executive’s block grant. However, AFBI has defined its strategic priorities taking on board the ambitions of the Going for Growth strategy and has articulated its desire to grow its funding from other sources using the very substantial budget allocation that it continues to receive from DARD as the platform from which to leverage this additional funding. I welcome this approach, which is entirely consistent with the ambitions set out in Going for Growth.
We are currently developing some very exciting plans for the AFBI estate which would see AFBI consolidating onto a smaller number of sites with modern, efficient, leading edge facilities. Such facilities will underpin AFBI’s scientific capabilities and its ability to bring in income from external sources. I hope to be in a position to bid for substantial capital funding to begin to deliver these plans during the next budget period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050371%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248353","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248353"}},{"id":"248352","reference":"AQW 50370/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-04","answerBy":"2015-11-19","answered":"2015-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the economic output from the agri-food sector, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The economic output of the Agri-Food Sector (the agriculture sector plus the food and drinks processing sector) as measured by Gross Value Added for the last five years (for which data is available) is provided in the following table:\n\nGross Value Added (GVA) £ Million\t2009\t2010\t2011\t2012\t2013\t2014\nAgriculture\t277.9\t351.8\t454.4\t388.0\t470.0\t450.5\nFood and Drinks Processing\t617.8\t636.6\t643.0\t681.9\t717.7\tN/A\nTotal GVA for Agri-Food\t895.7\t988.4\t1,097.4\t1,069.9\t1,187.7\tN/A","answerHtml":"The economic output of the Agri-Food Sector (the agriculture sector plus the food and drinks processing sector) as measured by Gross Value Added for the last five years (for which data is available) is provided in the following table:
| Gross Value Added (GVA) £ Million | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 |
| Agriculture | 277.9 | 351.8 | 454.4 | 388.0 | 470.0 | 450.5 |
| Food and Drinks Processing | 617.8 | 636.6 | 643.0 | 681.9 | 717.7 | N/A |
| Total GVA for Agri-Food | 895.7 | 988.4 | 1,097.4 | 1,069.9 | 1,187.7 | N/A |
On a like-for-like basis, the reduction to AFBI’s 2015/16 budget is 11.5% compared with a reduction to DARD’s overall budget of 15.1%.
My Departmental budget is being constrained by public sector budget cuts as a result of reductions to the Executive’s block grant by the Tory Government in Britain. I have therefore had to prioritise my spending plans, taking account of the full range of Departmental responsibilities and the potential effect on frontline services. These plans include much more than the budget I allocate to AFBI. However, you will note that the reduction applied to AFBI’s 2015/16 budget baseline is less than that for the Department as a whole.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050369%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248351"}},{"id":"248350","reference":"AQW 50368/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-04","answerBy":"2015-11-19","answered":"2015-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what consultation was carried out on the Agri-Food and Biosciences Institute 2020 Strategy, to ensure that the ongoing and future research needs of farmers remained a core part of its design.","answerText":"The development of AFBI’s 2020 Strategy was driven in part by the significant budget pressures facing the public sector as a result of reductions in the Executive’s block grant.\n\nI consulted on DARD’s draft 2015/16 budget spending and savings proposals from November 2014 to February 2015. This included the proposed £3m scaling back of the work programme assigned to AFBI by DARD. Responses to that consultation were received from a range of industry stakeholders.\n\nGoing forward, DARD’s research agenda is defined within its Evidence and Innovation Strategy which is currently being refreshed. This will define the evidence needs of my Department as well as addressing the innovation needs of industry.\n\nAlthough AFBI is our primary research provider, it is not our sole source of research and development.","answerHtml":"The development of AFBI’s 2020 Strategy was driven in part by the significant budget pressures facing the public sector as a result of reductions in the Executive’s block grant.
I consulted on DARD’s draft 2015/16 budget spending and savings proposals from November 2014 to February 2015. This included the proposed £3m scaling back of the work programme assigned to AFBI by DARD. Responses to that consultation were received from a range of industry stakeholders.
Going forward, DARD’s research agenda is defined within its Evidence and Innovation Strategy which is currently being refreshed. This will define the evidence needs of my Department as well as addressing the innovation needs of industry.
Although AFBI is our primary research provider, it is not our sole source of research and development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050368%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248350"}},{"id":"248173","reference":"AQW 50321/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-03","answerBy":"2015-11-18","answered":"2015-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 48696/11-16, whether a decision regarding the preferred option for the accommodation needs of the Northern Regional College has been made, and when it will be announced.","answerText":"A final Outline Business Case was received from the Northern Regional College on 15 October 2015 and is being assessed by my Department. It sets out the College’s proposals for addressing its accommodation needs in the Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena areas.\n\nFollowing my acceptance of the Business Case proposals, further approval will be required from the Department of Finance and Personnel before the College’s plans can be made public.","answerHtml":"A final Outline Business Case was received from the Northern Regional College on 15 October 2015 and is being assessed by my Department. It sets out the College’s proposals for addressing its accommodation needs in the Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena areas.
Following my acceptance of the Business Case proposals, further approval will be required from the Department of Finance and Personnel before the College’s plans can be made public.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050321%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248173"}},{"id":"248172","reference":"AQW 50320/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-03","answerBy":"2015-11-18","answered":"2015-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail (i) how he plans to support the study of the Chinese language and culture; and (ii) whether there are plans for further investment.","answerText":"My Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher and further education sectors. However, decisions regarding course provision and curriculum, including Chinese language and culture, are a matter for individual institutions.\n\nMy Department does not currently allocate any specific funds to our universities for the study of Chinese language and culture and has no plans to do so. However, my Department funds the UK wide Study China programme. This funding enables up to 45 Northern Ireland students to avail of a three week cultural mobility opportunity to partner universities in China. This funding is in place to July 2016, and future funding will be considered as part of the spending review.","answerHtml":"My Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher and further education sectors. However, decisions regarding course provision and curriculum, including Chinese language and culture, are a matter for individual institutions.
My Department does not currently allocate any specific funds to our universities for the study of Chinese language and culture and has no plans to do so. However, my Department funds the UK wide Study China programme. This funding enables up to 45 Northern Ireland students to avail of a three week cultural mobility opportunity to partner universities in China. This funding is in place to July 2016, and future funding will be considered as part of the spending review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050320%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248172","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248172"}},{"id":"248142","reference":"AQW 50303/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-03","answerBy":"2015-11-06","answered":"2015-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail why he called in and subsequently approved planning application C/2011/0459/F by Cam Burn Wind Farm Ltd.","answerText":"I was contacted by the applicant who outlined the recent history of the case since it had transferred to the council for processing prior to 1 April 2015. My reasons for calling in the planning application were due to the planning history of this application and the particular difficulties arising from the current DETI proposals concerning the qualifying date for the NI Renewables Obligation Scheme, which was 30 October 2015. I also noted the potential economic and environmental contribution from this project.\n\nIn reaching my decision I took account of the report and recommendation of my officials. I was also aware of the strong level of public representation in both objection to, and support of, the application. The key issues I considered in the determination of the application were the potential visual impact on the wider landscape of the area and the potential impact on nearby residents. Overall I considered that these impacts would not be unacceptably adverse and that the proposal met the requirements of planning policy.","answerHtml":"I was contacted by the applicant who outlined the recent history of the case since it had transferred to the council for processing prior to 1 April 2015. My reasons for calling in the planning application were due to the planning history of this application and the particular difficulties arising from the current DETI proposals concerning the qualifying date for the NI Renewables Obligation Scheme, which was 30 October 2015. I also noted the potential economic and environmental contribution from this project.
In reaching my decision I took account of the report and recommendation of my officials. I was also aware of the strong level of public representation in both objection to, and support of, the application. The key issues I considered in the determination of the application were the potential visual impact on the wider landscape of the area and the potential impact on nearby residents. Overall I considered that these impacts would not be unacceptably adverse and that the proposal met the requirements of planning policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050303%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248142"}},{"id":"248105","reference":"AQW 50290/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-03","answerBy":"2015-11-18","answered":"2016-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how older and rurally based carers are made aware of support services available, such as carer's assessment and allowance.","answerText":"Under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002, Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts are required to ensure that information regarding a carer’s right to request an assessment of their needs is made generally available across the Trust area. HSC Trusts are also required to notify carers directly of their right to assessment, where it appears that an individual is carrying out a caring role and may benefit from the offer of support.\n\nCarer’s Allowance is a benefit and is therefore the responsibility of the Department for Social Development.","answerHtml":"Under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002, Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts are required to ensure that information regarding a carer’s right to request an assessment of their needs is made generally available across the Trust area. HSC Trusts are also required to notify carers directly of their right to assessment, where it appears that an individual is carrying out a caring role and may benefit from the offer of support.
Carer’s Allowance is a benefit and is therefore the responsibility of the Department for Social Development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050290%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248105","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248105"}},{"id":"248102","reference":"AQW 50289/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-03","answerBy":"2015-11-18","answered":"2015-11-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 50072/11-16, to detail (i) which groups received funding through the Women's Centres Childcare Fund; and (ii) what responsibility his Department has to ensure similar funding provisions remain as part of a new childcare strategy.","answerText":"The Women’s Centres Childcare Fund Groups are:\n\nATLAS Women’s Centre\n\nBallybeen Women’s Centre\n\nChrysalis Women’s Centre\n\nFalls Women’s Centre\n\nFirst Steps Women’s Centre\n\nFootprints Women’s Centre\n\nGreenway Women’s Centre\n\nKilcooley Women’s Centre\n\nMagherafelt Women’s Group Ltd\n\nShankill Women’s Centre\n\nStrathfoyle Women’s Activity Group\n\nThe Women’s Centre Derry\n\nWaterside Women’s Centre\n\nWindsor Women’s Centre\n\nMy Officials have been in discussions with OfMdFM Officials regarding the services to be covered under the new childcare strategy.","answerHtml":"The Women’s Centres Childcare Fund Groups are:
ATLAS Women’s Centre
Ballybeen Women’s Centre
Chrysalis Women’s Centre
Falls Women’s Centre
First Steps Women’s Centre
Footprints Women’s Centre
Greenway Women’s Centre
Kilcooley Women’s Centre
Magherafelt Women’s Group Ltd
Shankill Women’s Centre
Strathfoyle Women’s Activity Group
The Women’s Centre Derry
Waterside Women’s Centre
Windsor Women’s Centre
My Officials have been in discussions with OfMdFM Officials regarding the services to be covered under the new childcare strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050289%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248102","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248102"}},{"id":"247934","reference":"AQW 50237/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-02","answerBy":"2015-11-17","answered":"2015-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) what measures he plans to introduce to mitigate the impact of the national living wage on the social care sector; and (ii) for a timeline for the implementation of these measures.","answerText":"The Department has recognised that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges including the introduction of the National Living Wage.\n\nIn response to these challenges the HSC Board is undertaking a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of Domiciliary Care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. The Review will take account of the views of statutory and independent providers, service users and carers and staff representatives.\n\nOnce my officials have had an opportunity to consider the review they will provide me with recommendations for consideration in due course.","answerHtml":"The Department has recognised that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges including the introduction of the National Living Wage.
In response to these challenges the HSC Board is undertaking a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of Domiciliary Care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. The Review will take account of the views of statutory and independent providers, service users and carers and staff representatives.
Once my officials have had an opportunity to consider the review they will provide me with recommendations for consideration in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050237%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247934","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247934"}},{"id":"247931","reference":"AQW 50234/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-02","answerBy":"2015-11-17","answered":"2016-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has considered introducing a health economist to determine an accurate cost of home care provision.","answerText":"Given the pressures facing the care market and the difficult economic environment in which we are operating in I have instructed officials to undertake a review and analysis of the state of the social care market with an emphasis on the economic outlook and the longer term sustainability of the current arrangements.\n\nThis will be used to improve our understanding of the current challenges and as a platform for developing our policy and operational responses.","answerHtml":"Given the pressures facing the care market and the difficult economic environment in which we are operating in I have instructed officials to undertake a review and analysis of the state of the social care market with an emphasis on the economic outlook and the longer term sustainability of the current arrangements.
This will be used to improve our understanding of the current challenges and as a platform for developing our policy and operational responses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050234%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247931","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247931"}},{"id":"247930","reference":"AQW 50233/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-02","answerBy":"2015-11-17","answered":"2015-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what discussions he has had with (i) the Health and Social Care Board; (ii) Health and Social Care Trusts; and (iii) independent social care providers, regarding the impact of the increased national living wage on the social care sector.","answerText":"The Department has recognised that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges, including the introduction of the National Living Wage.\n\nIn response to these challenges the Health and Social Care Board has undertaken a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of domiciliary care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. During the review the Board consulted with users and carers, trade unions and sector representatives, as well as liaising with Age NI, Patient and Client Council and the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.\n\nOnce my officials have had an opportunity to consider the review they will provide me with recommendations for consideration in due course.","answerHtml":"The Department has recognised that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges, including the introduction of the National Living Wage.
In response to these challenges the Health and Social Care Board has undertaken a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of domiciliary care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. During the review the Board consulted with users and carers, trade unions and sector representatives, as well as liaising with Age NI, Patient and Client Council and the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.
Once my officials have had an opportunity to consider the review they will provide me with recommendations for consideration in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050233%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247930","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247930"}},{"id":"247929","reference":"AQW 50232/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-11-02","answerBy":"2015-11-05","answered":"2016-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the increased national living wage on the social care sector.","answerText":"I recognise that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges including the introduction of the National Living Wage.\n\nIn response to these challenges the Health and Social Care Board is undertaking a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of Domiciliary Care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. The Review will take account of the views of statutory and independent providers, service users and carers and staff representatives.","answerHtml":"I recognise that the domiciliary care sector is currently facing significant challenges including the introduction of the National Living Wage.
In response to these challenges the Health and Social Care Board is undertaking a regional review of domiciliary care provision in Northern Ireland. It is intended that the review will shape the future direction of Domiciliary Care provision, taking into account the financial and other challenges facing the sector. The Review will take account of the views of statutory and independent providers, service users and carers and staff representatives.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050232%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247929","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247929"}},{"id":"247602","reference":"AQW 50172/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-23","answerBy":"2015-11-09","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how the individual needs, circumstances and capabilities of young people on Jobseeker's Allowance are assessed so that they are directed onto programmes which develop skills and provide qualifications in the most appropriate way for them.","answerText":"My Department, through the Employment Service, provides a tailored one to one service available to all clients including young people on Jobseeker’s Allowance, the aim of which is to identify and work to overcome barriers to employment. Employment Service Advisers deliver this tailored service in our network of 35 frontline Jobs & Benefits offices and JobCentres across Northern Ireland, applying a Work Readiness Toolkit at each interview. Using this Toolkit, an adviser discusses and considers a wide range of personal circumstances with individual clients including:\n\nwork history, qualifications, skills, strengths and abilities; and\n\nrealistic employment goals in relation to local labour market needs;\n\njob search activity and skills;\n\nany barriers preventing them from securing sustainable employment and the areas of need which should be addressed, e.g. caring responsibilities, health issues;\n\nthe elements of provision available to overcome any barriers identified and any specialist assistance required.\n\nHaving gathered this information, advisers are able to assess a client’s employability and subsequently, what activities may be required to improve his/her employability and ultimately, to move him/her into sustained employment.\n\nThe Employment Service works closely with the Careers Service, referring individuals who would benefit from additional help.\n\nMy Department's Careers Service offers impartial and personalised advice and guidance on an all-age basis, provided by professionally qualified advisers. Their aim is to support individuals to make informed decisions about the opportunities available in education, training and apprenticeships to help them fulfil their potential, leading to rewarding and sustained employment. Professionally qualified careers advisers are based in Careers Resource Centres, Jobs & Benefits offices and JobCentres throughout Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"My Department, through the Employment Service, provides a tailored one to one service available to all clients including young people on Jobseeker’s Allowance, the aim of which is to identify and work to overcome barriers to employment. Employment Service Advisers deliver this tailored service in our network of 35 frontline Jobs & Benefits offices and JobCentres across Northern Ireland, applying a Work Readiness Toolkit at each interview. Using this Toolkit, an adviser discusses and considers a wide range of personal circumstances with individual clients including:
work history, qualifications, skills, strengths and abilities; and
realistic employment goals in relation to local labour market needs;
job search activity and skills;
any barriers preventing them from securing sustainable employment and the areas of need which should be addressed, e.g. caring responsibilities, health issues;
the elements of provision available to overcome any barriers identified and any specialist assistance required.
Having gathered this information, advisers are able to assess a client’s employability and subsequently, what activities may be required to improve his/her employability and ultimately, to move him/her into sustained employment.
The Employment Service works closely with the Careers Service, referring individuals who would benefit from additional help.
My Department's Careers Service offers impartial and personalised advice and guidance on an all-age basis, provided by professionally qualified advisers. Their aim is to support individuals to make informed decisions about the opportunities available in education, training and apprenticeships to help them fulfil their potential, leading to rewarding and sustained employment. Professionally qualified careers advisers are based in Careers Resource Centres, Jobs & Benefits offices and JobCentres throughout Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050172%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247602","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247602"}},{"id":"247601","reference":"AQW 50171/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-23","answerBy":"2015-11-09","answered":"2015-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 48284/11-16, for his assessment of the indirect impacts on European Social Fund targets caused by the inability of young people to join or complete European Social Fund programmes due to being mandated onto Steps 2 Success.","answerText":"Under the European Social Fund (ESF) 2014-2020 Programme, key outcomes and targets relate specifically to the progression of participants, whether that is into employment or into further training. Whilst the Programme has overall targets in this respect, each individual project funded under the Programme also has specific targets relating to the progression of participants. As such, ESF Project Promoters will be keenly involved to ensure that participants are in a position to progress in either respect, and therefore contribute to the achievement of the overall Programme targets.\n\nWhere a potential Steps 2 Success participant is already engaged in Departmental provision, such as the ESF Programme, then my Department is permitted to allow a further 90-day period of participation before the individual is mandated to participate on Steps 2 Success. This will allow, when required, for many ESF participants to complete their training, given the relatively short-term nature of most provision under the ESF Programme.\n\nHowever, as part of my Department’s ongoing process of monitoring progress against targets under the ESF Programme, I will be keeping this matter under continuous review.","answerHtml":"Under the European Social Fund (ESF) 2014-2020 Programme, key outcomes and targets relate specifically to the progression of participants, whether that is into employment or into further training. Whilst the Programme has overall targets in this respect, each individual project funded under the Programme also has specific targets relating to the progression of participants. As such, ESF Project Promoters will be keenly involved to ensure that participants are in a position to progress in either respect, and therefore contribute to the achievement of the overall Programme targets.
Where a potential Steps 2 Success participant is already engaged in Departmental provision, such as the ESF Programme, then my Department is permitted to allow a further 90-day period of participation before the individual is mandated to participate on Steps 2 Success. This will allow, when required, for many ESF participants to complete their training, given the relatively short-term nature of most provision under the ESF Programme.
However, as part of my Department’s ongoing process of monitoring progress against targets under the ESF Programme, I will be keeping this matter under continuous review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050171%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247601","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247601"}},{"id":"247600","reference":"AQW 50170/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-23","answerBy":"2015-11-09","answered":"2015-11-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what consideration has he given to his Department collaborating with the European Social Fund, United Youth Programme and Steps 2 Success providers to ensure that individuals can complete their training with, or participation on, other projects before they are ready to progress onto Steps 2 Success.","answerText":"Steps 2 Success (S2S) is my Department’s main employment programme, and is part of a wider package of support, which my Department’s Employment Service Advisers can offer to unemployed clients.\n\nEmployment Service Advisers offer advice, guidance and assistance to help unemployed clients find work at the earliest opportunity. This support includes a range of other programmes designed to move unemployed clients into work. These programmes include the European Social Fund Programme and the United Youth Programme.\n\nEuropean Social Fund Programme\n\nEuropean Social Fund (ESF) Programme aims to support participants with pre-employment training to enhance jobsearch skills, improve confidence and acquire the necessary skills to access sustainable employment. Support can include providing vocational training for employability up to Level 1. All applications submitted to the European Social Fund had to demonstrate how they would not duplicate local provision in other geographical areas and how they would complement existing Departmental and other Government programmes.\n\nUnited Youth Programme\n\nMy Department is currently leading, on behalf of the Executive, on the development of the United Youth Programme. This is a good relations programme that will provide flexible, high quality, young-person-centred opportunities for 16-24 year olds who are not in education, employment or training.\n\nThe programme is a key commitment in the ‘Together: Building a United Community’ Strategy. A total of 13 pilots, with approximately 360 places, are being delivered across Northern Ireland in 2015/2016. These pilots will test a range of approaches which will inform the service design framework for the United Youth Programme.\n\nAs the target group of young people for the United Youth Pilots are those Not in Education Employment or Training (NEET), a sizeable proportion of young people targeted will be on Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).\n\nSteps 2 Success\n\nJSA claimants will, at certain points in their benefit claim, be required to participate on S2S. Those aged 18 to 24 years old will be required to participate when they have been claiming JSA for 9 months. Those aged 25 years old and over will be required to participate when they have been claiming JSA for 12 months.\n\nClients referred to S2S must attend and participate on the programme in order to maintain entitlement to benefit.\n\nWhere a JSA claimant is participating on another programme when they reach their S2S eligibility date, my Department’s Employment Service Advisers can defer the S2S referral for up to 90 days. This deferral period should allow the client time to complete training or participation on the programme they have started and move into employment where possible. If the client does not move into employment on completion of another programme, they will be referred to S2S.\n\nMy Department’s Employment Service works closely with the ESF Managing Authority and Youth Policy and Strategy Divisions to ensure the integration of Departmental provision meets the needs of unemployed clients.\n\nThis collaboration between Divisions within my Department ensures that Employment Service Advisers can refer unemployed clients to the most appropriate provision or programme to meet their job goals and overcome individual barriers to employment.","answerHtml":"Steps 2 Success (S2S) is my Department’s main employment programme, and is part of a wider package of support, which my Department’s Employment Service Advisers can offer to unemployed clients.
Employment Service Advisers offer advice, guidance and assistance to help unemployed clients find work at the earliest opportunity. This support includes a range of other programmes designed to move unemployed clients into work. These programmes include the European Social Fund Programme and the United Youth Programme.
European Social Fund Programme
European Social Fund (ESF) Programme aims to support participants with pre-employment training to enhance jobsearch skills, improve confidence and acquire the necessary skills to access sustainable employment. Support can include providing vocational training for employability up to Level 1. All applications submitted to the European Social Fund had to demonstrate how they would not duplicate local provision in other geographical areas and how they would complement existing Departmental and other Government programmes.
United Youth Programme
My Department is currently leading, on behalf of the Executive, on the development of the United Youth Programme. This is a good relations programme that will provide flexible, high quality, young-person-centred opportunities for 16-24 year olds who are not in education, employment or training.
The programme is a key commitment in the ‘Together: Building a United Community’ Strategy. A total of 13 pilots, with approximately 360 places, are being delivered across Northern Ireland in 2015/2016. These pilots will test a range of approaches which will inform the service design framework for the United Youth Programme.
As the target group of young people for the United Youth Pilots are those Not in Education Employment or Training (NEET), a sizeable proportion of young people targeted will be on Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA).
Steps 2 Success
JSA claimants will, at certain points in their benefit claim, be required to participate on S2S. Those aged 18 to 24 years old will be required to participate when they have been claiming JSA for 9 months. Those aged 25 years old and over will be required to participate when they have been claiming JSA for 12 months.
Clients referred to S2S must attend and participate on the programme in order to maintain entitlement to benefit.
Where a JSA claimant is participating on another programme when they reach their S2S eligibility date, my Department’s Employment Service Advisers can defer the S2S referral for up to 90 days. This deferral period should allow the client time to complete training or participation on the programme they have started and move into employment where possible. If the client does not move into employment on completion of another programme, they will be referred to S2S.
My Department’s Employment Service works closely with the ESF Managing Authority and Youth Policy and Strategy Divisions to ensure the integration of Departmental provision meets the needs of unemployed clients.
This collaboration between Divisions within my Department ensures that Employment Service Advisers can refer unemployed clients to the most appropriate provision or programme to meet their job goals and overcome individual barriers to employment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050170%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247600","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247600"}},{"id":"247598","reference":"AQW 50169/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-23","answerBy":"2015-11-09","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning (i) whether Steps 2 Success takes preference over other projects which provide opportunities for young people to gain qualifications; and (ii) to give his assessment of the challenges posed for young people who are currently participating on other programmes and who are required to participate in Steps 2 Success.","answerText":"(i)\n\nSteps 2 Success (S2S) is my Department’s main employment programme. Eligibility for S2S is determined by the type of benefit which a client receives, the length of time on benefit and the client’s barriers to employment.\n\nS2S provides a personalised, tailored service to meet individual needs. This service, which may include a qualification, is underpinned by Service Guarantees to ensure all participants get the support they need.\n\nJobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) claimants, aged 18 to 24 years old, are required under the Jobseeker’s Allowance (Schemes for Assisting Persons to Obtain Employment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014, to participate on S2S when they have been in receipt of that benefit for nine months. JSA claimants who are referred to S2S must attend and participate on the programme in order to maintain their entitlement to benefit. S2S, therefore, takes precedence over other employability programmes which are not mandatory.\n\n(ii)\n\nWhere a JSA claimant reaches their S2S eligibility point and is participating on another programme, my Department’s Employment Service Advisers can consider deferring the S2S referral. This deferral can be up to 90 days and should allow the client time to complete the programme they have started and, where possible, move into employment. This deferral should remove any challenge to young people completing other programmes when they reach the required trigger point to participate on S2S. Clients will be referred to S2S at the end of the deferral period if they have not found employment and are still claiming JSA.","answerHtml":"(i)
Steps 2 Success (S2S) is my Department’s main employment programme. Eligibility for S2S is determined by the type of benefit which a client receives, the length of time on benefit and the client’s barriers to employment.
S2S provides a personalised, tailored service to meet individual needs. This service, which may include a qualification, is underpinned by Service Guarantees to ensure all participants get the support they need.
Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) claimants, aged 18 to 24 years old, are required under the Jobseeker’s Allowance (Schemes for Assisting Persons to Obtain Employment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014, to participate on S2S when they have been in receipt of that benefit for nine months. JSA claimants who are referred to S2S must attend and participate on the programme in order to maintain their entitlement to benefit. S2S, therefore, takes precedence over other employability programmes which are not mandatory.
(ii)
Where a JSA claimant reaches their S2S eligibility point and is participating on another programme, my Department’s Employment Service Advisers can consider deferring the S2S referral. This deferral can be up to 90 days and should allow the client time to complete the programme they have started and, where possible, move into employment. This deferral should remove any challenge to young people completing other programmes when they reach the required trigger point to participate on S2S. Clients will be referred to S2S at the end of the deferral period if they have not found employment and are still claiming JSA.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050169%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247598","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247598"}},{"id":"247591","reference":"AQW 50162/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-23","answerBy":"2015-10-28","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail when the review of Multiple Sclerosis Neurological Services will be completed.","answerText":"This review will be completed by early 2016.","answerHtml":"This review will be completed by early 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050162%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247591"}},{"id":"247420","reference":"AQW 50117/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-22","answerBy":"2015-11-06","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what initiatives are currently in place within his Department to address the fear of crime among older people and to increase confidence and peace of mind regarding their safety.","answerText":"The safety of older people is an important issue for my Department, and this is emphasised by the inclusion of measures to address fear of crime within the Executive’s Programme for Government and my Department’s Community Safety Strategy, “Building Safer, Shared and Confident Communities”.\n\nThe multi-agency Older Persons Delivery Group chaired by my Department has developed an action plan which contains a range of measures being taken forward by the relevant organisations to tackle fear of crime among older people.\n\nMy Department has been working with Age Sector Platform, also a member of the Delivery Group, over recent years to tackle a range of issues affecting the safety of older people and their fear of crime. In particular, they have been working with their members to research why older people are fearful of becoming a victim of crime. This culminated in the development of a “Feel Safe” guide, which includes crime prevention advice and information on organisations that can help older people to feel safer. I understand that local PSNI officers have been distributing this booklet to older people who have been victims of crime.\n\nOver the coming months, Age Sector Platform will be holding workshops on a regional basis to promote the messages in this guide and to address the concerns that older people have around crime. These workshops will include a range of advice on how they can avoid becoming victims of crime and representation from key providers of advice.\n\nIn addition, a range of initiatives are run at a local level by Policing and Community Safety Partnerships, such as the film resource pack developed by Derry City and Strabane PCSP.","answerHtml":"The safety of older people is an important issue for my Department, and this is emphasised by the inclusion of measures to address fear of crime within the Executive’s Programme for Government and my Department’s Community Safety Strategy, “Building Safer, Shared and Confident Communities”.
The multi-agency Older Persons Delivery Group chaired by my Department has developed an action plan which contains a range of measures being taken forward by the relevant organisations to tackle fear of crime among older people.
My Department has been working with Age Sector Platform, also a member of the Delivery Group, over recent years to tackle a range of issues affecting the safety of older people and their fear of crime. In particular, they have been working with their members to research why older people are fearful of becoming a victim of crime. This culminated in the development of a “Feel Safe” guide, which includes crime prevention advice and information on organisations that can help older people to feel safer. I understand that local PSNI officers have been distributing this booklet to older people who have been victims of crime.
Over the coming months, Age Sector Platform will be holding workshops on a regional basis to promote the messages in this guide and to address the concerns that older people have around crime. These workshops will include a range of advice on how they can avoid becoming victims of crime and representation from key providers of advice.
In addition, a range of initiatives are run at a local level by Policing and Community Safety Partnerships, such as the film resource pack developed by Derry City and Strabane PCSP.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050117%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247420","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247420"}},{"id":"247403","reference":"AQW 50112/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-22","answerBy":"2015-11-06","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline how he will work with agencies, including Lifeline, to mitigate the risks leading to the overrepresentation of males in occurrences of suicide.","answerText":"The Public Health Agency commissions a range of suicide prevention services targeted at males including: mental health public information campaigns to encourage help seeking behaviour; mental health training programmes; community focused mental health awareness programmes; and mentoring for young men who have experienced suicidal ideation and/or self harm.\n\nSome of the “Lifeline” communications are also targeted at a male audience, for example, through late night radio programme sponsorship on U105 with customised messages for men, and awareness sessions and information material for construction workers and haulage companies.","answerHtml":"The Public Health Agency commissions a range of suicide prevention services targeted at males including: mental health public information campaigns to encourage help seeking behaviour; mental health training programmes; community focused mental health awareness programmes; and mentoring for young men who have experienced suicidal ideation and/or self harm.
Some of the “Lifeline” communications are also targeted at a male audience, for example, through late night radio programme sponsorship on U105 with customised messages for men, and awareness sessions and information material for construction workers and haulage companies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050112%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247403","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247403"}},{"id":"247395","reference":"AQW 50111/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-22","answerBy":"2015-11-06","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on his Department's suicide prevention strategy, including details of existing targets to address and reduce suicide.","answerText":"A wide range of services and programmes are delivered under the “Protect Life” strategy. These include the Lifeline crisis response service, suicide prevention training, community-based counselling support, education campaigns, self harm prevention programmes, and bereavement support. A new strategy is being developed and will be issued for public consultation in 2016.\n\nThe long-term goal of “Protect Life” is to reduce the prevalence of suicide in Northern Ireland; the aim, within the lifetime of the current strategy, is to reduce the differential in the suicide rate between deprived and non-deprived areas within Northern Ireland. To date, this inequality gap has remained constant, although the final outcome will not be known until 2016 as suicide rates are measured on a three year rolling average.","answerHtml":"A wide range of services and programmes are delivered under the “Protect Life” strategy. These include the Lifeline crisis response service, suicide prevention training, community-based counselling support, education campaigns, self harm prevention programmes, and bereavement support. A new strategy is being developed and will be issued for public consultation in 2016.
The long-term goal of “Protect Life” is to reduce the prevalence of suicide in Northern Ireland; the aim, within the lifetime of the current strategy, is to reduce the differential in the suicide rate between deprived and non-deprived areas within Northern Ireland. To date, this inequality gap has remained constant, although the final outcome will not be known until 2016 as suicide rates are measured on a three year rolling average.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050111%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247395","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247395"}},{"id":"247392","reference":"AQW 50110/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-22","answerBy":"2015-11-06","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what support is available to families that are at risk of fuel poverty, but are not eligible for the Affordable Warmth Scheme.","answerText":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme is delivered in partnership between my Department, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and local councils. Local council staff make the initial contact with householders considered to be most at risk of fuel poverty to assess eligibility for the Affordable Warmth Scheme. Where the household is not eligible for assistance under the Affordable Warmth Scheme, council staff can refer them on to the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme which provides a range of schemes to assist low income households improve their energy efficiency. My Department’s Boiler Replacement Scheme also provides a grant of up £1,000 to replace old inefficient boilers. Council staff may also direct householders to the Bryson Energy Freephone advice line to obtain independent and impartial advice for domestic householders in Northern Ireland. This advice line is funded by my Department through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Advice and guidance is available on NI Direct for people who want to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.\n\nCouncil staff also advise householders of the Social Security Agency’s ‘Make the Call’ campaign and if the householder agrees they will send their details to the Make the Call team to undertake a Benefit Entitlement Check.\n\nIn addition my Department will issue the annual Winter Fuel Payment (£100 - £300) to qualifying households again this year. My Department also operates the Cold Weather Payment, which is issued to qualifying households when the temperature is or is forecast to be zero or below for 7 consecutive days between 1 November and 31 March. This payment could be made several times during the qualifying period, depending on the temperature.","answerHtml":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme is delivered in partnership between my Department, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive and local councils. Local council staff make the initial contact with householders considered to be most at risk of fuel poverty to assess eligibility for the Affordable Warmth Scheme. Where the household is not eligible for assistance under the Affordable Warmth Scheme, council staff can refer them on to the Northern Ireland Sustainable Energy Programme which provides a range of schemes to assist low income households improve their energy efficiency. My Department’s Boiler Replacement Scheme also provides a grant of up £1,000 to replace old inefficient boilers. Council staff may also direct householders to the Bryson Energy Freephone advice line to obtain independent and impartial advice for domestic householders in Northern Ireland. This advice line is funded by my Department through the Northern Ireland Housing Executive. Advice and guidance is available on NI Direct for people who want to improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
Council staff also advise householders of the Social Security Agency’s ‘Make the Call’ campaign and if the householder agrees they will send their details to the Make the Call team to undertake a Benefit Entitlement Check.
In addition my Department will issue the annual Winter Fuel Payment (£100 - £300) to qualifying households again this year. My Department also operates the Cold Weather Payment, which is issued to qualifying households when the temperature is or is forecast to be zero or below for 7 consecutive days between 1 November and 31 March. This payment could be made several times during the qualifying period, depending on the temperature.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050110%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247392","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247392"}},{"id":"247387","reference":"AQW 50109/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-22","answerBy":"2015-11-06","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether additional or exceptional circumstances, outside of annual income, may be considered as eligibility criteria for the Affordable Warmth Scheme.","answerText":"The qualification criteria for the Affordable Warmth Scheme were determined following a public consultation on proposals between 17 February and 9 May 2014 regarding the Affordable Warmth Scheme. In the consultation, it was proposed to set the household income eligibility level for the Affordable Warmth Scheme at £16,190 (the then free schools meal limit). The findings of the first Affordable Warmth pilot “An Area Based Approach to Finding Households Most in Need” reported that half of the households surveyed had an annual income of less than £12,000 and two thirds of them had an annual income of less than £16,000.\n\nAs a result of the public consultation my Department decided that the annual household income level should be set at £20,000. In reaching this figure my Department considered the 2012/13 Family Resources Survey which showed that 39% of Northern Ireland households had an income less than £400 per week.\n\nThe £20,000 limit was set as part of the extensive consultation therefore there is no flexibility or discretion to take exceptional circumstances into account. My Department will review the Affordable Warmth Scheme, including the qualification criteria, after one full year of operation to ensure that those households most impacted by fuel poverty are assisted.\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The qualification criteria for the Affordable Warmth Scheme were determined following a public consultation on proposals between 17 February and 9 May 2014 regarding the Affordable Warmth Scheme. In the consultation, it was proposed to set the household income eligibility level for the Affordable Warmth Scheme at £16,190 (the then free schools meal limit). The findings of the first Affordable Warmth pilot “An Area Based Approach to Finding Households Most in Need” reported that half of the households surveyed had an annual income of less than £12,000 and two thirds of them had an annual income of less than £16,000.
As a result of the public consultation my Department decided that the annual household income level should be set at £20,000. In reaching this figure my Department considered the 2012/13 Family Resources Survey which showed that 39% of Northern Ireland households had an income less than £400 per week.
The £20,000 limit was set as part of the extensive consultation therefore there is no flexibility or discretion to take exceptional circumstances into account. My Department will review the Affordable Warmth Scheme, including the qualification criteria, after one full year of operation to ensure that those households most impacted by fuel poverty are assisted.
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050109%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247387","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247387"}},{"id":"247286","reference":"AQW 50072/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-21","answerBy":"2015-11-05","answered":"2015-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the sustainability of the Womens' Centre Childcare Fund.","answerText":"Since 2006, the Women’s Centres Childcare Fund has continued as an emergency funding package pending development, by OFMdFM, of a new childcare strategy, which is currently the subject of consultation. In the context of the childcare strategy I have indicated that this will be the last year of funding under WCCF.","answerHtml":"Since 2006, the Women’s Centres Childcare Fund has continued as an emergency funding package pending development, by OFMdFM, of a new childcare strategy, which is currently the subject of consultation. In the context of the childcare strategy I have indicated that this will be the last year of funding under WCCF.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050072%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247286","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247286"}},{"id":"247240","reference":"AQW 50039/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-21","answerBy":"2015-11-05","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of (ii) homelessness in the last five years; and (ii) the capacity of the current housing stock to address this issue.","answerText":"With regard to point (i) the changes in homelessness over the last 5 years have shown the following:\n\nFrom 2010-15 there was a decrease in the number of people presenting as homeless by around 3% reducing from 20,158 to 19,621 with the trend in households accepted as statutorily homeless remaining stable over the 5 year period at around 50% of applicants;\n\nSingle households are consistently the highest household group of homeless presenters, representing a trend of about 50% of all households, with families at around 31% being the second largest household category.\n\nThe trend in the same period for the top 3 reasons for households presenting as homeless remain as sharing breakdown/family dispute, accommodation not reasonable, and loss of rented accommodation.\n\nWith regard to point (ii) the social housing sector capacity has been significantly developed to address housing need has through the use of existing stock and new build. Other housing solutions, including the private rented sector, have also been utilised to address housing need.\n\nThe Housing Executive and Housing Associations allocate around 11,000 properties each year. The majority of these are allocated to homeless households, with 68% of all allocations in the last financial year being to those owed a full housing duty under homelessness legislation.\n\nA total of 7,598 new or additional social housing homes have been provided over this period, averaging 1,520 completions per year.\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"With regard to point (i) the changes in homelessness over the last 5 years have shown the following:
From 2010-15 there was a decrease in the number of people presenting as homeless by around 3% reducing from 20,158 to 19,621 with the trend in households accepted as statutorily homeless remaining stable over the 5 year period at around 50% of applicants;
Single households are consistently the highest household group of homeless presenters, representing a trend of about 50% of all households, with families at around 31% being the second largest household category.
The trend in the same period for the top 3 reasons for households presenting as homeless remain as sharing breakdown/family dispute, accommodation not reasonable, and loss of rented accommodation.
With regard to point (ii) the social housing sector capacity has been significantly developed to address housing need has through the use of existing stock and new build. Other housing solutions, including the private rented sector, have also been utilised to address housing need.
The Housing Executive and Housing Associations allocate around 11,000 properties each year. The majority of these are allocated to homeless households, with 68% of all allocations in the last financial year being to those owed a full housing duty under homelessness legislation.
A total of 7,598 new or additional social housing homes have been provided over this period, averaging 1,520 completions per year.
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050039%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247240"}},{"id":"247239","reference":"AQW 50038/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-21","answerBy":"2015-11-05","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department supports childcare and early years groups that want to increase their staffing capacity or purchase resources and equipment in order to make services accessible to families with disabled children.","answerText":"My Department funded a three year SEN Early Years capacity building pilot in DE-funded early years’ settings which finished at the end of September 2014.\n\nThe pilot aimed to improve early identification, assessment and intervention for children with SEN and / or disability in statutory nursery settings and voluntary and private settings offering funded Pre - School Education Programme funded places.\n\nETI positively reviewed the pilot and subsequently the Early Years Inclusion Service, which is provided by the Education Authority (EA), commenced on 1 September 2015 and will build on the progress achieved during the Pilots and the Interim Arrangements.\n\nI have recently provided further funding to the EA to extend the development of the Early Years training model used for pre-school settings to early years’ children with SEN entering primary schools at P1.","answerHtml":"My Department funded a three year SEN Early Years capacity building pilot in DE-funded early years’ settings which finished at the end of September 2014.
The pilot aimed to improve early identification, assessment and intervention for children with SEN and / or disability in statutory nursery settings and voluntary and private settings offering funded Pre - School Education Programme funded places.
ETI positively reviewed the pilot and subsequently the Early Years Inclusion Service, which is provided by the Education Authority (EA), commenced on 1 September 2015 and will build on the progress achieved during the Pilots and the Interim Arrangements.
I have recently provided further funding to the EA to extend the development of the Early Years training model used for pre-school settings to early years’ children with SEN entering primary schools at P1.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050038%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247239"}},{"id":"247238","reference":"AQW 50037/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-21","answerBy":"2015-11-05","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for her assessment of the impact on older people and people with disabilities who use non-black taxis, who depend on restricted areas to enter or alight vehicles of the enforced ban on vehicle use of bus lanes.","answerText":"The recent introduction of camera enforcement of moving traffic offices in bus lanes was not accompanied by any change in access arrangements, so should not have had any direct impact on people with disabilities who use non-black taxis.\n\nBus lanes are mainly provided for more sustainable forms of transport such as buses and bicycles. Motorcycles are permitted access for safety reasons and because they use less road space, thereby reducing congestion. Certain taxis are permitted access as they operate in a similar fashion to public transport, that is, picking up fares on-street, and because they can also accommodate wheelchairs. The signs adjacent to the individual length of bus lane will indicate what vehicles are permitted to use the facility during its time of operation.\n\nWhilst ‘non-black’ taxis, like the majority of other vehicles, are not permitted to enter, proceed or wait in an operational bus lane, there are opportunities for them to set down passengers on most of the routes in question, particularly given the fragmented nature of our network of bus lanes. Taxis can stop on yellow lines while passengers board or alight as long no other restriction is in force, such as an urban clearway. Non-permitted vehicles can also cross a bus lane to gain access to premises or to a lay-bay or parking area which is only accessible from that bus lane. Furthermore, the nature of our road network means that side streets and other viable alternatives are never that far away.\n\nWhilst I can appreciate the inconvenience caused in terms of picking up and setting down passengers, I understand that it is not an issue that my Department has been strongly lobbied on in the past number of years.\n\nIn terms of the overall impact of bus lanes, a full Equality Impact Assessment was carried out for the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan and this concluded that the public transport proposals contained in the Plan, including the provision of bus lanes, would provide benefits across all equality categories identified in Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.","answerHtml":"The recent introduction of camera enforcement of moving traffic offices in bus lanes was not accompanied by any change in access arrangements, so should not have had any direct impact on people with disabilities who use non-black taxis.
Bus lanes are mainly provided for more sustainable forms of transport such as buses and bicycles. Motorcycles are permitted access for safety reasons and because they use less road space, thereby reducing congestion. Certain taxis are permitted access as they operate in a similar fashion to public transport, that is, picking up fares on-street, and because they can also accommodate wheelchairs. The signs adjacent to the individual length of bus lane will indicate what vehicles are permitted to use the facility during its time of operation.
Whilst ‘non-black’ taxis, like the majority of other vehicles, are not permitted to enter, proceed or wait in an operational bus lane, there are opportunities for them to set down passengers on most of the routes in question, particularly given the fragmented nature of our network of bus lanes. Taxis can stop on yellow lines while passengers board or alight as long no other restriction is in force, such as an urban clearway. Non-permitted vehicles can also cross a bus lane to gain access to premises or to a lay-bay or parking area which is only accessible from that bus lane. Furthermore, the nature of our road network means that side streets and other viable alternatives are never that far away.
Whilst I can appreciate the inconvenience caused in terms of picking up and setting down passengers, I understand that it is not an issue that my Department has been strongly lobbied on in the past number of years.
In terms of the overall impact of bus lanes, a full Equality Impact Assessment was carried out for the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan and this concluded that the public transport proposals contained in the Plan, including the provision of bus lanes, would provide benefits across all equality categories identified in Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050037%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247238","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247238"}},{"id":"247236","reference":"AQW 50035/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-21","answerBy":"2015-11-05","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for her assessment of the impact on drivers who are blue badge holders of the enforced ban on vehicle use of bus lanes.","answerText":"The recent introduction of camera enforcement of moving traffic offences in bus lanes was not accompanied by any change in access arrangements, therefore it did not have any impact on Blue Badge holders.\n\nThe purpose of the Blue Badge scheme is to allow people with severe mobility problems to park close to where they need to go. It provides generous parking concessions for Badge holders which are not available to the majority of other drivers. The scheme does not however extend to allowing Badge holders to either park or drive in operational bus lanes.\n\nBus lanes are mainly provided for more sustainable forms of transport such as buses and bicycles. Motorcycles are permitted access for safety reasons and because they use less road space thereby reducing congestion. Certain taxis are permitted access as they operate in a similar fashion to public transport picking up fares on-street, and because they can also accommodate wheelchairs. Both buses and permitted taxis therefore accommodate people with disabilities. The signs adjacent to the individual length of bus lane will indicate what vehicles are permitted to use the facility during its time of operation.\n\nA full Equality Impact Assessment was carried out for the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan and this concluded that the public transport proposals contained in the Plan, including the provision of bus lanes, would provide benefits across all equality categories identified in Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.","answerHtml":"The recent introduction of camera enforcement of moving traffic offences in bus lanes was not accompanied by any change in access arrangements, therefore it did not have any impact on Blue Badge holders.
The purpose of the Blue Badge scheme is to allow people with severe mobility problems to park close to where they need to go. It provides generous parking concessions for Badge holders which are not available to the majority of other drivers. The scheme does not however extend to allowing Badge holders to either park or drive in operational bus lanes.
Bus lanes are mainly provided for more sustainable forms of transport such as buses and bicycles. Motorcycles are permitted access for safety reasons and because they use less road space thereby reducing congestion. Certain taxis are permitted access as they operate in a similar fashion to public transport picking up fares on-street, and because they can also accommodate wheelchairs. Both buses and permitted taxis therefore accommodate people with disabilities. The signs adjacent to the individual length of bus lane will indicate what vehicles are permitted to use the facility during its time of operation.
A full Equality Impact Assessment was carried out for the Belfast Metropolitan Transport Plan and this concluded that the public transport proposals contained in the Plan, including the provision of bus lanes, would provide benefits across all equality categories identified in Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2050035%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247236","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247236"}},{"id":"247041","reference":"AQW 49982/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-20","answerBy":"2015-11-04","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for his assessment of the Erasmus+ programme; and (ii) to detail how his Department are promoting greater access to this programme for (a) youth service providers: (b) disadvantaged young people.","answerText":"The Erasmus+ programme offers a wide range of opportunities for all our young people and teachers to participate in partnership and exchange activities across Europe. The EU programme aims to boost skills and employability whilst modernising education, training and youth work. In the 2014 and 2015 funding rounds, circa 67 schools and youth service providers here have benefited from the programme receiving funding in excess of 3.3 million Euros.\n\nMy Department is continuing to work with the British Council and the Department for Education and Skills in the south to promote the programme to schools and the youth sector to ensure that participation in Erasmus+ is maximised.","answerHtml":"The Erasmus+ programme offers a wide range of opportunities for all our young people and teachers to participate in partnership and exchange activities across Europe. The EU programme aims to boost skills and employability whilst modernising education, training and youth work. In the 2014 and 2015 funding rounds, circa 67 schools and youth service providers here have benefited from the programme receiving funding in excess of 3.3 million Euros.
My Department is continuing to work with the British Council and the Department for Education and Skills in the south to promote the programme to schools and the youth sector to ensure that participation in Erasmus+ is maximised.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049982%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247041","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247041"}},{"id":"247040","reference":"AQW 49981/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-20","answerBy":"2015-11-04","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for his assessment of international youth work as an aspect of informal learning; (ii) to detail how his Department supports access to international learning opportunities for (a) young people; and (b) youth work practioners.","answerText":"International youth work is the overall name given to a strand of youth work which focuses on the engagement of youth service participants, leaders and policy makers with their peers from a wide range of countries, cultures and backgrounds. International youth work provides the opportunity to explore and appreciate diversity.\n\nSupport for those organisations and young people wishing to participate in international youth work is provided through the Youth Council (YCNI) in the form of:\n\nTraining and promotional activities;\n\nAssistance with the Erasmus+ application process;\n\nOne to one clinics for potential applicants;\n\nProvision of up to date information through – E bulletins.\n\nAdditional funding provided by EU funded initiatives such as Erasmus+ provide the sector with opportunities to complement and support the implementation of Priorities for Youth.","answerHtml":"International youth work is the overall name given to a strand of youth work which focuses on the engagement of youth service participants, leaders and policy makers with their peers from a wide range of countries, cultures and backgrounds. International youth work provides the opportunity to explore and appreciate diversity.
Support for those organisations and young people wishing to participate in international youth work is provided through the Youth Council (YCNI) in the form of:
Training and promotional activities;
Assistance with the Erasmus+ application process;
One to one clinics for potential applicants;
Provision of up to date information through – E bulletins.
Additional funding provided by EU funded initiatives such as Erasmus+ provide the sector with opportunities to complement and support the implementation of Priorities for Youth.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049981%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247040","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247040"}},{"id":"247039","reference":"AQW 49980/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-20","answerBy":"2015-11-04","answered":"2015-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education (i) for an update on his Department's proposed Pathways Fund from April 2016; (ii) what correspondence he has had with Early Years funded groups regarding the proposed Pathways Fund; and (iii) whether the fund will provide services for children up to three years of age.","answerText":"The Pathway Fund will be introduced from April 2016. Procurement for the Fund Administrator is underway with Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) DFP, which is a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE).\n\nThe aim is to engage the Fund Administrator from December 2015 to allow sufficient time for development of the Fund so that it becomes fully operational with awards made from 1 April 2016. This will allow for the seamless closure of the Early Years Fund in its current form.\n\nIn order that the inequity of the current Early Years Fund is not perpetuated, the Pathway Fund will be open to all providers of Early Years education (aged 0-4) to apply.\n\nThe criteria for funding are currently being developed and they will align with DE’s strategic objectives, with the aim of ensuring that high quality provision can be supported in areas of greater disadvantage.\n\nOfficials wrote to current Early Years Fund recipients in July 2015 to advise them of the creation of the Pathway Fund.","answerHtml":"The Pathway Fund will be introduced from April 2016. Procurement for the Fund Administrator is underway with Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) DFP, which is a Centre of Procurement Expertise (CoPE).
The aim is to engage the Fund Administrator from December 2015 to allow sufficient time for development of the Fund so that it becomes fully operational with awards made from 1 April 2016. This will allow for the seamless closure of the Early Years Fund in its current form.
In order that the inequity of the current Early Years Fund is not perpetuated, the Pathway Fund will be open to all providers of Early Years education (aged 0-4) to apply.
The criteria for funding are currently being developed and they will align with DE’s strategic objectives, with the aim of ensuring that high quality provision can be supported in areas of greater disadvantage.
Officials wrote to current Early Years Fund recipients in July 2015 to advise them of the creation of the Pathway Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049980%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247039","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247039"}},{"id":"247038","reference":"AQW 49979/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-20","answerBy":"2015-11-04","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what opportunities for continual professional development exist for the non-formal education workforce.","answerText":"The Department of Education does not employ support staff who work in the education sector. The Education Authority (EA) employs the vast majority of the education sector support staff.\n\nThe EA has advised that professional development opportunities are provided for staff in various settings. The nature and type of professional development opportunity will be determined by the specific professional requirements of staff such as Education Welfare Officers, Educational Psychologists, Drivers etc.\n\nIn particular, training is provided where there is a statutory requirement in areas such as health and safety, child protection, food safety etc.\n\nIn-house training is also developed for a number of areas to meet service needs.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education does not employ support staff who work in the education sector. The Education Authority (EA) employs the vast majority of the education sector support staff.
The EA has advised that professional development opportunities are provided for staff in various settings. The nature and type of professional development opportunity will be determined by the specific professional requirements of staff such as Education Welfare Officers, Educational Psychologists, Drivers etc.
In particular, training is provided where there is a statutory requirement in areas such as health and safety, child protection, food safety etc.
In-house training is also developed for a number of areas to meet service needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049979%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247038","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247038"}},{"id":"247037","reference":"AQW 49978/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-20","answerBy":"2015-11-04","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when the review of the Youth Council for Northern Ireland will be published.","answerText":"The consultation on proposals for the future of the Youth Council (YCNI) closed on 3 July 2015. Responses are currently being considered and I will announce my decision in due course.","answerHtml":"The consultation on proposals for the future of the Youth Council (YCNI) closed on 3 July 2015. Responses are currently being considered and I will announce my decision in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049978%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=247037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=247037"}},{"id":"246873","reference":"AQW 49935/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-19","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":"2015-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to list the projects in (i) Limavady; and (ii) Coleraine which benefited from the North West Socio Economic Development Programme 2014-15; and how her Department will provide support for the continuation of these projects, to ensure lasting benefits.","answerText":"A number of projects in Limavady and Coleraine benefitted from the North West Socio Economic Development Programme 2014/ 15 including:\n\nLimavady\n\nProject\tAmount\nLimavady Cultural Programme\t£20,000\nSt.Mary’s School Cultural Hub Equipment\t£30,000\nGlens Community Association Cultural Hub Equipment\t£8,000\nStendhal Festival\t£130,000\n(£100k capital, £30k resource)\n\nColeraine\n\nProject\tAmount\nBallysally Youth & Community Centre Cultural Hub Equipment\t£20,000\nWOMAD Coleraine 'Culture of Peace' Legacy Programme\t£20,000\nThe Milk Cup\t£7,000\nColeraine Event Staging\t£100,000\nNorth Coast Sports Village\t£1,249,000\n\nMy officials continue to work closely with stakeholders in the North West to support partnerships and opportunities to maximise the long term impact of City of Culture 2013. A particular priority will be working with organisations in areas of high social need including those groups and organisations working with children in care.\n\nEnsuring a lasting legacy from the City of Culture will remain a priority for my Department over the next twelve months.","answerHtml":"A number of projects in Limavady and Coleraine benefitted from the North West Socio Economic Development Programme 2014/ 15 including:
Limavady
| Project | Amount |
| Limavady Cultural Programme | £20,000 |
| St.Mary’s School Cultural Hub Equipment | £30,000 |
| Glens Community Association Cultural Hub Equipment | £8,000 |
| Stendhal Festival | £130,000 (£100k capital, £30k resource) |
Coleraine
| Project | Amount |
| Ballysally Youth & Community Centre Cultural Hub Equipment | £20,000 |
| WOMAD Coleraine 'Culture of Peace' Legacy Programme | £20,000 |
| The Milk Cup | £7,000 |
| Coleraine Event Staging | £100,000 |
| North Coast Sports Village | £1,249,000 |
My officials continue to work closely with stakeholders in the North West to support partnerships and opportunities to maximise the long term impact of City of Culture 2013. A particular priority will be working with organisations in areas of high social need including those groups and organisations working with children in care.
Ensuring a lasting legacy from the City of Culture will remain a priority for my Department over the next twelve months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049935%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246873"}},{"id":"246872","reference":"AQW 49934/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-19","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":"2015-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what targets his Department has on awarding public appointments to (i) people under 30 years of age; and (ii) women.","answerText":"My Department does not currently set targets for awarding public appointments to people under 30 years of age and women. In some previous public appointment competitions, my Department has used positive action statements in relation to age and gender in order to attract a wider pool of applicants from these groups. I will continue to consider this practice for future appointments where appropriate.\n\nMy Department is committed to the principle of selection on merit and complies with the Code of Practice for Ministerial Public Appointments published by the Commissioner for Public Appointments NI when making public appointments.\n\nImproving diversity on the Boards of public bodies is important to my Department and I aim to attract applications from a broad range of candidates by advertising competitions using a range of outlets such as newspapers, the DOJ and OFMDFM websites and by highlighting forthcoming competitions on OFMDFM’s news-sheet ‘All Aboard’.","answerHtml":"My Department does not currently set targets for awarding public appointments to people under 30 years of age and women. In some previous public appointment competitions, my Department has used positive action statements in relation to age and gender in order to attract a wider pool of applicants from these groups. I will continue to consider this practice for future appointments where appropriate.
My Department is committed to the principle of selection on merit and complies with the Code of Practice for Ministerial Public Appointments published by the Commissioner for Public Appointments NI when making public appointments.
Improving diversity on the Boards of public bodies is important to my Department and I aim to attract applications from a broad range of candidates by advertising competitions using a range of outlets such as newspapers, the DOJ and OFMDFM websites and by highlighting forthcoming competitions on OFMDFM’s news-sheet ‘All Aboard’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049934%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246872","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246872"}},{"id":"246869","reference":"AQW 49933/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-19","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) which groups have benefited from the Bright Start Childcare Scheme since 2014 in East Londonderry; and (ii) for an update on a third call for applications to this scheme, including whether funding has been ring-fenced for this.","answerText":"Since 2014 the following the following childcare settings in East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency have been funded under the Bright Start Childcare Scheme:\n\nGroup\tRevenue (£)\tCapital (£)\nThe Nest Out of School Club, Claudy\t34,777\t0\nBurnfoot Playgroup, Dungiven\t32,784\t0\nDry Arch Childrens Centre, Dungiven\t19,497\t30,000\nGaelscoil Leim An Mhadaidh, Limavady\t28,845\t13,500\nApple Tree Childcare, Garvagh\t11,764\t30,000\n\nTo promote a further round of funding for the Bright Start Grant Scheme a series of eight events were held between 27 May and 12 June. It is now planned to open up the application process for funding again in November 2015.\n\nIn the 2011-2015 Budget, £12 million was ring-fenced to support the development of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy. Of the £12 million childcare fund, £4.2 million has been spent to date. The balance will continue to be used to resource the Key First Actions of the Childcare Strategy, such as the Bright Start Grant Scheme.","answerHtml":"Since 2014 the following the following childcare settings in East Londonderry Parliamentary Constituency have been funded under the Bright Start Childcare Scheme:
| Group | Revenue (£) | Capital (£) |
| The Nest Out of School Club, Claudy | 34,777 | 0 |
| Burnfoot Playgroup, Dungiven | 32,784 | 0 |
| Dry Arch Childrens Centre, Dungiven | 19,497 | 30,000 |
| Gaelscoil Leim An Mhadaidh, Limavady | 28,845 | 13,500 |
| Apple Tree Childcare, Garvagh | 11,764 | 30,000 |
To promote a further round of funding for the Bright Start Grant Scheme a series of eight events were held between 27 May and 12 June. It is now planned to open up the application process for funding again in November 2015.
In the 2011-2015 Budget, £12 million was ring-fenced to support the development of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy. Of the £12 million childcare fund, £4.2 million has been spent to date. The balance will continue to be used to resource the Key First Actions of the Childcare Strategy, such as the Bright Start Grant Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049933%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246869","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246869"}},{"id":"246865","reference":"AQW 49932/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-19","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) any projects that received money from the Central Good Relations Fund; (ii) which of these are rural projects and; (iii) whether all funding has been allocated until April 2016.","answerText":"The table below details: groups that have received funding from the Central Good Relation Fund and indicates if the group is urban or rural.\n\nGroups Allocated Funding\tRural/Urban\nBasement Youth Club\tUrban\nBallymac Friendship Trust\tUrban\nBelfast Orangefest\tUrban\nBrownlow House\tRural\nBryson An Munia Tober\tUrban\nCentre for Democracy and Peace Building\tUrban\nCharter for NI\tUrban\nChurchtown Community Association\tRural\nCinemagic\tUrban\nCoalisland Residents & Community Forum\tRural\nCo-operation Ireland – Fair Change and Change Initiative\tUrban\nCookstown Community Allotments\tRural\nCookstown Youth Football Club\tRural\nCraigavon Traveller Support Committee\tRural\nDerry & District Youth Football Association Foyle Cup Committee\tUrban\nFallen and Survivors Tales\tUrban\nFalls Community Council\tUrban\nFalls Women’s Centre\tUrban\nGalliagh Womens Group\tUrban\nGaslight Media Trust\tUrban\nGreater Dunmurry Positive Relations Partnership (GDPRP)\tUrban\nGreater Shantallow Community Arts\tUrban\nGreenisland Football Club\tRural\nHolywell Trust\tUrban\nIntercomm\tUrban\nLisburn PSP\tUrban\nLower Ormeau Residents Association\tUrban\nMarkethill Community Festival Committee\tRural\nMidland Social Recreation\tUrban\nNorthend United Youth FC\tRural\nPlaying for the Future\tUrban\nRainbow Children's and Family Group\tUrban\nRoyal British Legion – Cookstown\tRural\nSomme Heritage\tRural\nSeagoe Youth Group\tUrban\nSport Changes Life\tUrban\nSt Columbs Cathedral\tUrban\nSuffolk Lenadoon Interface Group\tUrban\nTeach Na Failte\tUrban\nTowards healing and Understanding\tUrban\nThe Cathedral Youth Club\tUrban\nTIDES Training\tUrban\n\nThere has been significant demand for 2015/16 Central Good Relations Funding. Funding is being released in phases and to date over £1.7 million has been approved and allocated to priority projects. We intend to release further funding soon and successful groups will be contacted when decisions have been made.\n\nIt should be noted that groups based in both rural and urban areas may have participants taking part in their projects from outside the area.","answerHtml":"The table below details: groups that have received funding from the Central Good Relation Fund and indicates if the group is urban or rural.
| Groups Allocated Funding | Rural/Urban |
| Basement Youth Club | Urban |
| Ballymac Friendship Trust | Urban |
| Belfast Orangefest | Urban |
| Brownlow House | Rural |
| Bryson An Munia Tober | Urban |
| Centre for Democracy and Peace Building | Urban |
| Charter for NI | Urban |
| Churchtown Community Association | Rural |
| Cinemagic | Urban |
| Coalisland Residents & Community Forum | Rural |
| Co-operation Ireland – Fair Change and Change Initiative | Urban |
| Cookstown Community Allotments | Rural |
| Cookstown Youth Football Club | Rural |
| Craigavon Traveller Support Committee | Rural |
| Derry & District Youth Football Association Foyle Cup Committee | Urban |
| Fallen and Survivors Tales | Urban |
| Falls Community Council | Urban |
| Falls Women’s Centre | Urban |
| Galliagh Womens Group | Urban |
| Gaslight Media Trust | Urban |
| Greater Dunmurry Positive Relations Partnership (GDPRP) | Urban |
| Greater Shantallow Community Arts | Urban |
| Greenisland Football Club | Rural |
| Holywell Trust | Urban |
| Intercomm | Urban |
| Lisburn PSP | Urban |
| Lower Ormeau Residents Association | Urban |
| Markethill Community Festival Committee | Rural |
| Midland Social Recreation | Urban |
| Northend United Youth FC | Rural |
| Playing for the Future | Urban |
| Rainbow Children's and Family Group | Urban |
| Royal British Legion – Cookstown | Rural |
| Somme Heritage | Rural |
| Seagoe Youth Group | Urban |
| Sport Changes Life | Urban |
| St Columbs Cathedral | Urban |
| Suffolk Lenadoon Interface Group | Urban |
| Teach Na Failte | Urban |
| Towards healing and Understanding | Urban |
| The Cathedral Youth Club | Urban |
| TIDES Training | Urban |
There has been significant demand for 2015/16 Central Good Relations Funding. Funding is being released in phases and to date over £1.7 million has been approved and allocated to priority projects. We intend to release further funding soon and successful groups will be contacted when decisions have been made.
It should be noted that groups based in both rural and urban areas may have participants taking part in their projects from outside the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049932%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246865"}},{"id":"246863","reference":"AQW 49931/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-19","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail any departmental targets on public appointments made to (i) people under 30; and (ii) women.","answerText":"OFMDFM does not currently set public appointment targets for people under 30 or for women.\n\nData on appointments of people under 30 and women are collected and published annually by OFMDFM in the Public Bodies and Public Appointments Annual Report. The former Commissioner for Public Appointments made a recommendation in his 2014 diversity report that work should begin on establishing diversity targets. This recommendation is currently under consideration.","answerHtml":"OFMDFM does not currently set public appointment targets for people under 30 or for women.
Data on appointments of people under 30 and women are collected and published annually by OFMDFM in the Public Bodies and Public Appointments Annual Report. The former Commissioner for Public Appointments made a recommendation in his 2014 diversity report that work should begin on establishing diversity targets. This recommendation is currently under consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049931%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246863"}},{"id":"246750","reference":"AQW 49907/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-16","answerBy":"2015-11-02","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department is working to eradicate rural poverty, particularly among older people.","answerText":"Through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework my department has provided £16 million over the past 4 years to implement a package of measures to help address a range of poverty and social isolation issues for the most vulnerable rural dwellers across the north of Ireland including the elderly. I have made £4m available for investment this year which will allow successful initiatives to continue including the Connecting Elderly Rural Isolated (CERI) Programme which supports independent living and the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) which mainly benefits the elderly and disabled. The Maximising Access Rural Areas (MARA) programme also benefits a high number of the elderly (56% of clients over 65). Funding will also continue for the Farm Families Health Checks Programme (25% of clients over 65), the Rural Support charity, the Rural Micro Capital Grants Programme and Community Development, all of which in different ways benefit the elderly in addressing poverty and social isolation.\n\nThe Micro Capital Grants Programme is currently open for applications. Funding is targeted at making life better for those in isolated and deprived rural areas and many organisations, including those that provide support for the elderly, will benefit from the Programme.","answerHtml":"Through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation (TRPSI) Framework my department has provided £16 million over the past 4 years to implement a package of measures to help address a range of poverty and social isolation issues for the most vulnerable rural dwellers across the north of Ireland including the elderly. I have made £4m available for investment this year which will allow successful initiatives to continue including the Connecting Elderly Rural Isolated (CERI) Programme which supports independent living and the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) which mainly benefits the elderly and disabled. The Maximising Access Rural Areas (MARA) programme also benefits a high number of the elderly (56% of clients over 65). Funding will also continue for the Farm Families Health Checks Programme (25% of clients over 65), the Rural Support charity, the Rural Micro Capital Grants Programme and Community Development, all of which in different ways benefit the elderly in addressing poverty and social isolation.
The Micro Capital Grants Programme is currently open for applications. Funding is targeted at making life better for those in isolated and deprived rural areas and many organisations, including those that provide support for the elderly, will benefit from the Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049907%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246750"}},{"id":"246749","reference":"AQW 49906/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-16","answerBy":"2015-11-02","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the publication of the Active Ageing Strategy.","answerText":"The Active Ageing Strategy has been finalised and, subject to agreement by the Executive, will be published.","answerHtml":"The Active Ageing Strategy has been finalised and, subject to agreement by the Executive, will be published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049906%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246749"}},{"id":"246747","reference":"AQW 49905/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-16","answerBy":"2015-11-02","answered":"2015-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 49275/11-16, to detail (i) how those on track to gain a Level 1 qualification under the European Social Fund 2014-2020 are actively encouraged to pursue higher qualifications beyond this; and (ii) what type of support his Department can provide to ensure that this specific progression remains a key component of the European Social Fund 2014-2020.","answerText":"As I explained in my response to AQW 49275/11-16, progression is a key component of the 2014-2020 European Social Fund (ESF) Programme, meaning that individuals are enabled and encouraged to progress to Level 2 qualifications and above, through other Departmental provision such as Further Education; Apprenticeships NI; or Steps to Success. This forms part of a Departmental-wide strategy to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.\n\nUnder the ESF 2014-2020 Programme, key outcomes and targets relate specifically to the progression of participants, whether that is into employment or into further training. Whilst the Programme has overall targets in this respect, each individual project funded under the Programme also has specific targets relating to the progression of participants. As such, the active encouragement of participants’ progression forms a cornerstone of all ESF funding.\n\nGiven the overall Programme targets in respect of progression, I assure you that it will remain a key component of the Programme.","answerHtml":"As I explained in my response to AQW 49275/11-16, progression is a key component of the 2014-2020 European Social Fund (ESF) Programme, meaning that individuals are enabled and encouraged to progress to Level 2 qualifications and above, through other Departmental provision such as Further Education; Apprenticeships NI; or Steps to Success. This forms part of a Departmental-wide strategy to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.
Under the ESF 2014-2020 Programme, key outcomes and targets relate specifically to the progression of participants, whether that is into employment or into further training. Whilst the Programme has overall targets in this respect, each individual project funded under the Programme also has specific targets relating to the progression of participants. As such, the active encouragement of participants’ progression forms a cornerstone of all ESF funding.
Given the overall Programme targets in respect of progression, I assure you that it will remain a key component of the Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049905%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246747","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246747"}},{"id":"246746","reference":"AQW 49904/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-16","answerBy":"2015-11-02","answered":"2015-11-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail a timeframe for a public consultation on the updated Gender Equality Strategy.","answerText":"It is envisaged that a twelve week public consultation period will be run in 2016.\n\nAs previously stated, the current Gender Equality Strategy 2006 – 2016 will remain in place until the new Strategy is developed and operational.","answerHtml":"It is envisaged that a twelve week public consultation period will be run in 2016.
As previously stated, the current Gender Equality Strategy 2006 – 2016 will remain in place until the new Strategy is developed and operational.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049904%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246746","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246746"}},{"id":"246514","reference":"AQW 49866/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-15","answerBy":"2015-10-30","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 49151/11-16, whether her Department offers financial support to local clubs who wish to provide volunteers with qualifications, training and skills development opportunities; and to detail the steps she is taking towards other recommendations of the mid-term review of Sport Matters.","answerText":"I can advise that in the last three financial years up to March 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, has invested a total of £1,604,214 through its Active Awards for Sport Programme. It is not possible to exactly quantify the breakdown of the elements of this funding that went to volunteer support and other sports development opportunities. However, this investment will have contributed to local clubs who wish to provide volunteers with qualifications, training and skills development opportunities.\n\nI can advise that Sport NI has developed an Action Plan to take forward the recommendations emerging from the mid-term review of Sport Matters. The draft Action Plan is due to be submitted in December to the Sports Matters Monitoring Group, which I lead, following consultation with stakeholders within the Sports Matters Implementation Groups.\n\nIt is anticipated that the Action Plan will be agreed and published by the end of this year.","answerHtml":"I can advise that in the last three financial years up to March 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, has invested a total of £1,604,214 through its Active Awards for Sport Programme. It is not possible to exactly quantify the breakdown of the elements of this funding that went to volunteer support and other sports development opportunities. However, this investment will have contributed to local clubs who wish to provide volunteers with qualifications, training and skills development opportunities.
I can advise that Sport NI has developed an Action Plan to take forward the recommendations emerging from the mid-term review of Sport Matters. The draft Action Plan is due to be submitted in December to the Sports Matters Monitoring Group, which I lead, following consultation with stakeholders within the Sports Matters Implementation Groups.
It is anticipated that the Action Plan will be agreed and published by the end of this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049866%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246514","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246514"}},{"id":"246513","reference":"AQW 49865/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-15","answerBy":"2015-10-30","answered":"2015-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 49149/11-16, following the success of Sport England’s This Girl Can campaign, whether she will consider a similar campaign for Northern Ireland to increase female participation in sport.","answerText":"My Department has no plans at present to develop a similar campaign to Sport England’s ‘This Girl Can’.\n\nHowever, I can advise that Sport NI is currently developing a new participation programme named ‘Every Body Active 2020’. The programme, which has been through a consultation process, will replace the current Active Communities programme which will cease on 31 March 2016. The new programme aims to increase and sustain participation in sport, especially among a number of under-represented groups, including females.\n\nI can advise that over the last five years, Sport NI’s ‘Active Communities’ programme has successfully engaged over 286,000 participants, 57% of those taking part in sport and leisure related activities were female. The ‘Every Body Active 2020’ policy has been developed to ensure that these levels of female participation continue to be built upon and sustained through to April 2020.","answerHtml":"My Department has no plans at present to develop a similar campaign to Sport England’s ‘This Girl Can’.
However, I can advise that Sport NI is currently developing a new participation programme named ‘Every Body Active 2020’. The programme, which has been through a consultation process, will replace the current Active Communities programme which will cease on 31 March 2016. The new programme aims to increase and sustain participation in sport, especially among a number of under-represented groups, including females.
I can advise that over the last five years, Sport NI’s ‘Active Communities’ programme has successfully engaged over 286,000 participants, 57% of those taking part in sport and leisure related activities were female. The ‘Every Body Active 2020’ policy has been developed to ensure that these levels of female participation continue to be built upon and sustained through to April 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049865%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246513","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246513"}},{"id":"246469","reference":"AQW 49845/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-15","answerBy":"2015-10-30","answered":"2015-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) for his assessment of the new junior doctors contract to be introduced in August 2016; and (ii) how this will impact on the health and wellbeing of both patients and doctors.","answerText":"Our junior doctors deserve a contract which is fair to them and which recognises the key role they play in delivering services to the people of Northern Ireland. They are a highly valued part of our workforce and I pay tribute to their contribution. I have made clear that I have no desire whatsoever to impose a new contract on junior doctors. An imposed contract would be the worst possible outcome.\n\nI do, however, have sympathy for the Department of Health’s desire to improve the existing contract which everyone has agreed is not fit for purpose - but it is essential that we work with our staff to achieve it. Just as imposing a new contract is far from ideal, so too is maintaining a contract that is broadly regarded as being unsatisfactory.\n\nI am fully committed to doing what is in the best interests of the people of Northern Ireland and that means I will not do anything that jeopardises patient safety and achieving the highest standard of care.","answerHtml":"Our junior doctors deserve a contract which is fair to them and which recognises the key role they play in delivering services to the people of Northern Ireland. They are a highly valued part of our workforce and I pay tribute to their contribution. I have made clear that I have no desire whatsoever to impose a new contract on junior doctors. An imposed contract would be the worst possible outcome.
I do, however, have sympathy for the Department of Health’s desire to improve the existing contract which everyone has agreed is not fit for purpose - but it is essential that we work with our staff to achieve it. Just as imposing a new contract is far from ideal, so too is maintaining a contract that is broadly regarded as being unsatisfactory.
I am fully committed to doing what is in the best interests of the people of Northern Ireland and that means I will not do anything that jeopardises patient safety and achieving the highest standard of care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049845%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246469","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246469"}},{"id":"246464","reference":"AQW 49844/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-15","answerBy":"2015-10-30","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when his Department will make a decision regarding the new junior doctors contract to be introduced in August 2016.","answerText":"I met with the Chair of the BMA (NI) Junior Doctors Committee in December 2015. I have also asked my officials to continue to engage in discussions with local BMA representatives with a view to developing an agreed way forward for Northern Ireland. I trust that we can work on a replacement for a contract which has been recognised as not fit for purpose and find a solution that is tailored to Northern Ireland's needs, is not punitive to local taxpayers and, most importantly, ensures a safe service for patients.","answerHtml":"I met with the Chair of the BMA (NI) Junior Doctors Committee in December 2015. I have also asked my officials to continue to engage in discussions with local BMA representatives with a view to developing an agreed way forward for Northern Ireland. I trust that we can work on a replacement for a contract which has been recognised as not fit for purpose and find a solution that is tailored to Northern Ireland's needs, is not punitive to local taxpayers and, most importantly, ensures a safe service for patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049844%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246464","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246464"}},{"id":"246521","reference":"AQO 8994/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-15","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on Sport NI's Sports Facilities Fund.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208994%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246521","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246521"}},{"id":"248232","reference":"AQO 8994/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-15","answerBy":"2015-11-03","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on Sport NI's Sports Facilities Fund.","answerText":"The Sport NI Lottery Sports Facility Fund will see an investment of seventeen point five million pounds in sports facilities across the north of Ireland. The aim is to increase participation in sport at club and community level, whilst also providing facilities for high performance sports people.\n\nIt will be delivered through three separate strands:\n\nThe Single Facility strand, which has an estimated budget of two million pounds;\n\nThe Multi Facility strand, which has an estimated budget of six point seven five million pounds; and\n\nThe Performance Facility strand, which has an estimated budget of eight point seven five million pounds.\n\nThe Single Facility strand opened to applicants on 1st June 2015 and closed on 15th July 2015. Award levels within this strand are between ten thousand pounds and one hundred thousand pounds. Local sports clubs and other organisations could apply to develop their sporting facilities or purchase sporting equipment. One hundred and fifty-three applications were received.\n\nFollowing an assessment of the applications and supporting Sports Development Plans, Sport NI has prioritised twenty one applications to move to the next stage in the process, which is the development of a business case for each project. Sport NI will now work with successful applicants to take forward their projects and are offering feedback and advice to those applicants who were not successful at this stage.\n\nThe most recent timescale for the Multi Facility strand to open for applications is now January 2016. Award levels within this strand will be between one hundred thousand pounds and one million pounds. Local sports clubs and other organisations can apply to develop new multi-sport facilities, or open up access to existing multi-sport facilities where four or more sports facilities are located at one site.\n\nI would encourage clubs and organisations considering applying to the Multi Facility strand to register their interest with Sport NI, if they have not already done so.\n\nFor the third strand, the Performance Strand, Sport NI is currently working with District Councils, Sports Governing Bodies and other key partners to identify how the allocated funding can be best used to integrate facility needs of communities and high performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment. This work is continuing and a date for release has yet to be agreed.","answerHtml":"The Sport NI Lottery Sports Facility Fund will see an investment of seventeen point five million pounds in sports facilities across the north of Ireland. The aim is to increase participation in sport at club and community level, whilst also providing facilities for high performance sports people.
It will be delivered through three separate strands:
The Single Facility strand, which has an estimated budget of two million pounds;
The Multi Facility strand, which has an estimated budget of six point seven five million pounds; and
The Performance Facility strand, which has an estimated budget of eight point seven five million pounds.
The Single Facility strand opened to applicants on 1st June 2015 and closed on 15th July 2015. Award levels within this strand are between ten thousand pounds and one hundred thousand pounds. Local sports clubs and other organisations could apply to develop their sporting facilities or purchase sporting equipment. One hundred and fifty-three applications were received.
Following an assessment of the applications and supporting Sports Development Plans, Sport NI has prioritised twenty one applications to move to the next stage in the process, which is the development of a business case for each project. Sport NI will now work with successful applicants to take forward their projects and are offering feedback and advice to those applicants who were not successful at this stage.
The most recent timescale for the Multi Facility strand to open for applications is now January 2016. Award levels within this strand will be between one hundred thousand pounds and one million pounds. Local sports clubs and other organisations can apply to develop new multi-sport facilities, or open up access to existing multi-sport facilities where four or more sports facilities are located at one site.
I would encourage clubs and organisations considering applying to the Multi Facility strand to register their interest with Sport NI, if they have not already done so.
For the third strand, the Performance Strand, Sport NI is currently working with District Councils, Sports Governing Bodies and other key partners to identify how the allocated funding can be best used to integrate facility needs of communities and high performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment. This work is continuing and a date for release has yet to be agreed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208994%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=248232","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=248232"}},{"id":"246391","reference":"AQW 49817/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-14","answerBy":"2015-10-29","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 49607/11-16, (i) for his assessment of the closure of the School of Modern Languages at Ulster University Coleraine in relation to the impact this will have on the study of Modern Languages at GCSE and A-Level; and (ii) whether he has discussed this with any external bodies.","answerText":"My Department closely monitors the uptake of modern languages at GCSE and A level. Whilst there has been some decline over recent years in French and German, there has been notable increases in numbers taking Spanish.\n\nStudents and their parents take into account a wide variety of factors when considering subject choices at GCSE level, including their enjoyment and aptitude for particular subjects as well as future careers or education prospects. I believe students who enjoy learning languages will continue to study languages at GCSE level, despite Ulster University’s announcement. When these pupils come to consider third level education, they will be able to choose from a range of universities here or further afield depending upon their subject specialism.\n\nWhilst I have had no discussion with the Minister for Employment and Learning on Ulster University’s announcement, I believe acquiring a second language has significant benefits for both the local and global economies and it is up to all of us to continue to promote the advantages which studying a modern foreign language can bring in terms of access to vibrant and exciting careers.\n\nMy Department is continuing to work with a wide range of external bodies to promote the importance of second language learning including the Languages Council, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, the Confucius Institute and the British Council. My officials also liaise with colleagues in the Department for Education and Skills in the south and the Department for Employment and Learning; with HE and FE sectors as well as the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment.","answerHtml":"My Department closely monitors the uptake of modern languages at GCSE and A level. Whilst there has been some decline over recent years in French and German, there has been notable increases in numbers taking Spanish.
Students and their parents take into account a wide variety of factors when considering subject choices at GCSE level, including their enjoyment and aptitude for particular subjects as well as future careers or education prospects. I believe students who enjoy learning languages will continue to study languages at GCSE level, despite Ulster University’s announcement. When these pupils come to consider third level education, they will be able to choose from a range of universities here or further afield depending upon their subject specialism.
Whilst I have had no discussion with the Minister for Employment and Learning on Ulster University’s announcement, I believe acquiring a second language has significant benefits for both the local and global economies and it is up to all of us to continue to promote the advantages which studying a modern foreign language can bring in terms of access to vibrant and exciting careers.
My Department is continuing to work with a wide range of external bodies to promote the importance of second language learning including the Languages Council, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, the Confucius Institute and the British Council. My officials also liaise with colleagues in the Department for Education and Skills in the south and the Department for Employment and Learning; with HE and FE sectors as well as the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049817%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246391"}},{"id":"246383","reference":"AQW 49816/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-14","answerBy":"2015-10-19","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) for his assessment of the support service provided by Lifeline; and (ii) to detail what discussions he has had with Lifeline regarding future service provision.","answerText":"(i) The Lifeline crisis response service is a key component of the Protect Life suicide prevention strategy. It provides essential support to people at a time when they are at their most vulnerable. Lifeline was established to provide immediate support and de-escalation for people in severe emotional crisis who are at risk of suicide. This focus will be maintained.\n\n(ii) The Lifeline service is commissioned by the Public Health Agency. I have not held any discussions with the current provider of the service. I am currently considering the PHA consultation report on the proposed future model of Lifeline, and options for the commissioning and delivery of that service.","answerHtml":"(i) The Lifeline crisis response service is a key component of the Protect Life suicide prevention strategy. It provides essential support to people at a time when they are at their most vulnerable. Lifeline was established to provide immediate support and de-escalation for people in severe emotional crisis who are at risk of suicide. This focus will be maintained.
(ii) The Lifeline service is commissioned by the Public Health Agency. I have not held any discussions with the current provider of the service. I am currently considering the PHA consultation report on the proposed future model of Lifeline, and options for the commissioning and delivery of that service.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049816%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246383","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246383"}},{"id":"246352","reference":"AQW 49815/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-14","answerBy":"2015-10-29","answered":"2015-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 49271/11-16, to detail (i) his Department’s rationale for not extending Special Educational Needs statements to 21 years of age; (ii) whether he plans to reassess this need; and (iii) existing alternative support for young people with special education needs, that require a longer period of time to achieve their educational goals.","answerText":"(i) I refer the member to my previous answer to AQW 49224/11-16 regarding the same issue; (ii) at present I have no plans to reassess the need for extending statementing to age 21; and (iii) my Department provides additional support for further education students through the Additional Support Fund and for higher education students through Disabled Students Allowance. Further information is available on nidirect at: Disability Support at College and Disabled Students Allowance.","answerHtml":"(i) I refer the member to my previous answer to AQW 49224/11-16 regarding the same issue; (ii) at present I have no plans to reassess the need for extending statementing to age 21; and (iii) my Department provides additional support for further education students through the Additional Support Fund and for higher education students through Disabled Students Allowance. Further information is available on nidirect at: Disability Support at College and Disabled Students Allowance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049815%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246352"}},{"id":"246322","reference":"AQW 49807/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-14","answerBy":"2015-10-29","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 49607/11-16, (i) for his assessment of the reasoning behind the declining numbers of examination entries; and (ii) how his Department is working with other bodies to encourage the uptake of the study of Modern Languages.","answerText":"My Department closely monitors the uptake of modern languages at GCSE and A level. Whilst there has been some decline over recent years in French and German, there has been notable increases in numbers taking Spanish.\n\nStudents and their parents take into account a wide variety of factors when considering subject choices at GCSE level, including their enjoyment and aptitude for particular subjects as well as future careers or education prospects. I believe students who enjoy learning languages will continue to study languages at GCSE level, despite Ulster University’s announcement. When these pupils come to consider third level education, they will be able to choose from a range of universities here or further afield depending upon their subject specialism.\n\nWhilst I have had no discussion with the Minister for Employment and Learning on Ulster University’s announcement, I believe acquiring a second language has significant benefits for both the local and global economies and it is up to all of us to continue to promote the advantages which studying a modern foreign language can bring in terms of access to vibrant and exciting careers.\n\nMy Department is continuing to work with a wide range of external bodies to promote the importance of second language learning including the Languages Council, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, the Confucius Institute and the British Council. My officials also liaise with colleagues in the Department for Education and Skills in the south and the Department for Employment and Learning; with HE and FE sectors as well as the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment.","answerHtml":"My Department closely monitors the uptake of modern languages at GCSE and A level. Whilst there has been some decline over recent years in French and German, there has been notable increases in numbers taking Spanish.
Students and their parents take into account a wide variety of factors when considering subject choices at GCSE level, including their enjoyment and aptitude for particular subjects as well as future careers or education prospects. I believe students who enjoy learning languages will continue to study languages at GCSE level, despite Ulster University’s announcement. When these pupils come to consider third level education, they will be able to choose from a range of universities here or further afield depending upon their subject specialism.
Whilst I have had no discussion with the Minister for Employment and Learning on Ulster University’s announcement, I believe acquiring a second language has significant benefits for both the local and global economies and it is up to all of us to continue to promote the advantages which studying a modern foreign language can bring in terms of access to vibrant and exciting careers.
My Department is continuing to work with a wide range of external bodies to promote the importance of second language learning including the Languages Council, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, the Confucius Institute and the British Council. My officials also liaise with colleagues in the Department for Education and Skills in the south and the Department for Employment and Learning; with HE and FE sectors as well as the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049807%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246322","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246322"}},{"id":"246319","reference":"AQW 49806/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-14","answerBy":"2015-10-29","answered":"2015-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 49153/11-16, what proportion of this funding has been directed at sports participation in areas of high deprivation outside Belfast; and to list these areas.","answerText":"I can advise that since March 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, provided Exchequer and Lottery funding of £118,503 to continue to deliver programmes to address sports participation in areas of high deprivation outside of Belfast. A list of these areas is attached at Annex A.\n\nThe funding arrangements for roll out of the TBUC Cross Community Youth Sports Programme to rural areas and the development of the TBUC Minor Sports Equipment Project have not yet been finalised however it is anticipated that a significant proportion of 2015/16 funding will be invested outside of Belfast in a bid to build good relations in a rural context and to tackle poverty and social exclusion.\n\nAnnex A\n\nareas of high deprivation outside of Belfast to receive funding from sport ni\n\nPOSTCODE\tAREA\tTOWN\nBT27\tHillhall\tLisburn\nBT35\tBallybot\nCreggan\tNewry\nNewry\nBT42\tBallykeel\tBallymena\nBT47\tClondermot\nDungiven\nHighlands\nGreysteel\tDerry\nLimavady\nLimavady\nLimavady\nBT48\tBrandywell\tDerry\nBT49\tRoeside\tLimavady\nBT52\tCentral\tColeraine\nBT60\tKeady\tArmagh\nBT61\tCallan Bridge\tArmagh\nBT65\tDrumgor\tCraigavon\nBT71\tBallysaggart\nStewartstown\tDungannon\nCookstown\nBT80\tKillymoon\tCookstown","answerHtml":"I can advise that since March 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, provided Exchequer and Lottery funding of £118,503 to continue to deliver programmes to address sports participation in areas of high deprivation outside of Belfast. A list of these areas is attached at Annex A.
The funding arrangements for roll out of the TBUC Cross Community Youth Sports Programme to rural areas and the development of the TBUC Minor Sports Equipment Project have not yet been finalised however it is anticipated that a significant proportion of 2015/16 funding will be invested outside of Belfast in a bid to build good relations in a rural context and to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
Annex A
areas of high deprivation outside of Belfast to receive funding from sport ni
| POSTCODE | AREA | TOWN |
| BT27 | Hillhall | Lisburn |
| BT35 | Ballybot Creggan | Newry Newry |
| BT42 | Ballykeel | Ballymena |
| BT47 | Clondermot Dungiven Highlands Greysteel | Derry Limavady Limavady Limavady |
| BT48 | Brandywell | Derry |
| BT49 | Roeside | Limavady |
| BT52 | Central | Coleraine |
| BT60 | Keady | Armagh |
| BT61 | Callan Bridge | Armagh |
| BT65 | Drumgor | Craigavon |
| BT71 | Ballysaggart Stewartstown | Dungannon Cookstown |
| BT80 | Killymoon | Cookstown |
My Department’s Employment Service provides advice and guidance to unemployed clients aged 18 to 24 years old for the first nine months of their benefit claim.
During this period, Employment Service Advisers can refer unemployed clients to a range of work focused provision which will assist them move into, and remain in, employment. This provision is aimed at those who have been assessed as being relatively close to the labour market and offers quality training opportunities which include Short Accredited Training Courses or Industry Standard Training Courses. Clients can also avail of other provision or programmes that may be available to assist them move into employment.
After a period of nine months with the Employment Service, Jobseeker’s Allowance (JSA) claimants in this age group who have not found employment will be referred to Steps 2 Success (S2S).
S2S is my Department’s main employment programme, the aim of which is to deliver a flexible personalised service, tailored to meet individual need. S2S participants receive an individual, personal service to help them achieve their job goals and progress into sustained employment. This personalised service, which may include a qualification, is underpinned by Service Guarantees to ensure all participants get the support they need. The support offered to a participant is documented in a Progression to Employment Plan which the participant agrees with their Employment Adviser.
If, at the S2S eligibility point JSA claimants are participating on other provision, including European Social Fund (ESF) Programmes, the Employment Service Adviser can consider deferring the S2S referral for up to 90 days. This will allow clients to complete the provision or programme they have started and, where possible, move into employment. This means that participants should not be prevented from completing programmes prior to being referred to S2S. Where participants do not find employment at the end of the deferral period, a referral to S2S will be made.
It is not permissible for an individual to be on S2S and an ESF project at the same time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049743%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246191"}},{"id":"246188","reference":"AQW 49742/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-13","answerBy":"2015-10-28","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for his assessment of (i) Knowledge Transfer Partnerships between Further and Higher Education institutions and local companies; and (ii) how budget cuts are likely to impact on the ability of institutions to deliver the Partnerships.","answerText":"(i) Since it began in Northern Ireland about 40 years ago some 600 Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) have been completed with local companies which have provided numerous benefits to individuals, companies and academic institutions and to the Northern Ireland economy overall.\n\nNorthern Ireland as a region is highly successful in terms of KTP Programme participation. Queen’s University Belfast has the highest number of current active partnerships in the UK at 42 and Ulster University is currently ranked sixth with 21 active partnerships.\n\nThe KTP Programme is an excellent example of a scheme which fosters collaboration and knowledge transfer and delivers significant impacts to the Northern Ireland economy. A recent study1 commissioned by Innovate UK estimated programme Return on Investment of £8 of net additional GVA generated for every £1 of KTP grant funding invested by sponsors.\n\n(ii) The higher and further education sectors in Northern Ireland fall under the remit of the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) which provides funding support in relation to teaching, research and knowledge exchange.\n\nIn terms of supporting the Higher Education sector’s continuing engagement with businesses and the wider community, DEL currently provides around £4 million per annum of underpinning, core funding through its Northern Ireland Higher Education Innovation Fund (NI HEIF).\n\nJust one of the roles of NI HEIF is to support the universities’ innovation and enterprise offices to provide practical assistance to academics and businesses to enable the development of high quality, competitive, proposals to KTP and to other important innovation initiatives.\n\nWith respect to KTP, both Queen’s University and Ulster University have been highly successful. Queen’s consistently tops the UK league table with respect to KTP awards and Ulster has recently moved up to sixth position out of 106 registered knowledge providers in the UK.\n\nNI HEIF is complemented by DEL’s Connected programme, an initiative supporting universities and further education colleges to work together for the benefit of local businesses. Currently funded at £1.1 million per annum, Connected also plays an important role in the promotion of KTPs and has been instrumental in encouraging the first college based projects.\n\nDespite the wider cuts to the Higher Education budget, DEL has been able to protect NI HEIF and Connected, in recognition of both programmes’ particular relevance and importance to the local economy. By taking the strategic decision to do this, DEL is safeguarding the ability of the universities to deliver KTPs and other business-facing activities.\n\nOn the Further Education side, DEL has increased the budget for the Employer Support Programme from £2 million in 2014/15 to £3.2 million in 2015/16 to implement and deliver a new strand of the programme, Skills Focus. This reaffirms the commitment of the Department to deliver training to businesses, enabling them to engage in innovation, upskill the workforce and gain qualifications.\n\nSkills Focus, which was introduced in April 2015, aims to support, promote and facilitate collaborative working between business and FE colleges, in order to provide tailored skills provision to small and medium sized enterprises with fewer than 250 employees. The purpose of Skills Focus is to meet business needs by increasing the skills levels and employability of the existing workforce to qualifications at level 2 and above.\n\nThe other strand of the Employer Support Programme, InnovateUs, is designed to encourage and promote opportunities for small businesses and FE colleges to work together. In particular, the focus of the programme is to enable small businesses, with fewer than 50 employees, to acquire the skills necessary to engage in innovation activities and research and development across the business and underpin the development of these skills; promote progression in this area; and enable businesses to undertake additional and further forms of innovation, which will contribute to their growth and development, as well as increasing Further Education’s role in economic development.\n\nAs with the Higher Education sector, this investment in the Further Education sector by DEL will serve to underpin the environment in which programmes such as KTP can flourish.\n\nKTP Programme - The Impacts of KTP Associates and Knowledge Base on the UK Economy, WECD July 2015","answerHtml":"(i) Since it began in Northern Ireland about 40 years ago some 600 Knowledge Transfer Partnerships (KTPs) have been completed with local companies which have provided numerous benefits to individuals, companies and academic institutions and to the Northern Ireland economy overall.
Northern Ireland as a region is highly successful in terms of KTP Programme participation. Queen’s University Belfast has the highest number of current active partnerships in the UK at 42 and Ulster University is currently ranked sixth with 21 active partnerships.
The KTP Programme is an excellent example of a scheme which fosters collaboration and knowledge transfer and delivers significant impacts to the Northern Ireland economy. A recent study1 commissioned by Innovate UK estimated programme Return on Investment of £8 of net additional GVA generated for every £1 of KTP grant funding invested by sponsors.
(ii) The higher and further education sectors in Northern Ireland fall under the remit of the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) which provides funding support in relation to teaching, research and knowledge exchange.
In terms of supporting the Higher Education sector’s continuing engagement with businesses and the wider community, DEL currently provides around £4 million per annum of underpinning, core funding through its Northern Ireland Higher Education Innovation Fund (NI HEIF).
Just one of the roles of NI HEIF is to support the universities’ innovation and enterprise offices to provide practical assistance to academics and businesses to enable the development of high quality, competitive, proposals to KTP and to other important innovation initiatives.
With respect to KTP, both Queen’s University and Ulster University have been highly successful. Queen’s consistently tops the UK league table with respect to KTP awards and Ulster has recently moved up to sixth position out of 106 registered knowledge providers in the UK.
NI HEIF is complemented by DEL’s Connected programme, an initiative supporting universities and further education colleges to work together for the benefit of local businesses. Currently funded at £1.1 million per annum, Connected also plays an important role in the promotion of KTPs and has been instrumental in encouraging the first college based projects.
Despite the wider cuts to the Higher Education budget, DEL has been able to protect NI HEIF and Connected, in recognition of both programmes’ particular relevance and importance to the local economy. By taking the strategic decision to do this, DEL is safeguarding the ability of the universities to deliver KTPs and other business-facing activities.
On the Further Education side, DEL has increased the budget for the Employer Support Programme from £2 million in 2014/15 to £3.2 million in 2015/16 to implement and deliver a new strand of the programme, Skills Focus. This reaffirms the commitment of the Department to deliver training to businesses, enabling them to engage in innovation, upskill the workforce and gain qualifications.
Skills Focus, which was introduced in April 2015, aims to support, promote and facilitate collaborative working between business and FE colleges, in order to provide tailored skills provision to small and medium sized enterprises with fewer than 250 employees. The purpose of Skills Focus is to meet business needs by increasing the skills levels and employability of the existing workforce to qualifications at level 2 and above.
The other strand of the Employer Support Programme, InnovateUs, is designed to encourage and promote opportunities for small businesses and FE colleges to work together. In particular, the focus of the programme is to enable small businesses, with fewer than 50 employees, to acquire the skills necessary to engage in innovation activities and research and development across the business and underpin the development of these skills; promote progression in this area; and enable businesses to undertake additional and further forms of innovation, which will contribute to their growth and development, as well as increasing Further Education’s role in economic development.
As with the Higher Education sector, this investment in the Further Education sector by DEL will serve to underpin the environment in which programmes such as KTP can flourish.
KTP Programme - The Impacts of KTP Associates and Knowledge Base on the UK Economy, WECD July 2015
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049742%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246188"}},{"id":"246184","reference":"AQW 49739/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-13","answerBy":"2015-10-28","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the schools that have had their budgets reduced since changes to the Common Funding Formula were introduced in 2014; and (ii) which schools received transition payments; and the amount awarded in each case.","answerText":"Despite significant reductions to my budget, I have been able to maintain funding levels for school delegated budgets. The Aggregated Schools’ Budget in 2015/16 was some 2.1% higher than in 2013/14.\n\nFunding at school level will reflect the overall level of funding available for distribution, identified needs across all schools and pupils enrolled, as well as any changes to the funding arrangements during this period. However, at individual school level, the share of budget will also reflect any changes in its characteristics, year on year – and in particular; pupil enrolments, their stage of education, additional need pupils and levels of identified social deprivation.\n\nIn line with my commitment that no school would lose funding in 2014-15 solely as a result of any changes I made to the Common Funding Formula, Transitional funding support has been made available to schools, in addition to their formula calculated funding share, over the last two years.\n\nI have arranged for details of schools, and the funding amounts received under the Transitional funding arrangements in the last two years, to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"Despite significant reductions to my budget, I have been able to maintain funding levels for school delegated budgets. The Aggregated Schools’ Budget in 2015/16 was some 2.1% higher than in 2013/14.
Funding at school level will reflect the overall level of funding available for distribution, identified needs across all schools and pupils enrolled, as well as any changes to the funding arrangements during this period. However, at individual school level, the share of budget will also reflect any changes in its characteristics, year on year – and in particular; pupil enrolments, their stage of education, additional need pupils and levels of identified social deprivation.
In line with my commitment that no school would lose funding in 2014-15 solely as a result of any changes I made to the Common Funding Formula, Transitional funding support has been made available to schools, in addition to their formula calculated funding share, over the last two years.
I have arranged for details of schools, and the funding amounts received under the Transitional funding arrangements in the last two years, to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049739%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246184","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246184"}},{"id":"246183","reference":"AQW 49738/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-13","answerBy":"2015-10-28","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how needs assessments are carried out to ensure schools in areas of high levels of deprivation are not disproportionately impacted by budget reductions.","answerText":"Despite significant reductions to my budget, I have been able to maintain funding levels for school delegated budgets.\n\nFollowing a report by the Independent Review Panel on funding arrangements for schools, changes were introduced to increase weighted funding levels for schools with significant concentrations of pupils identified as being socially deprived. Additionally, funding for schools received a further £10 million for distribution in the formula to help support schools with the greatest concentrations of disadvantage – to address underachievement among their disadvantaged pupils.\n\nWithin the finite resources available to the Education budget, I will continue to seek to maximise available funding for schools and to target resources to those children most in need.","answerHtml":"Despite significant reductions to my budget, I have been able to maintain funding levels for school delegated budgets.
Following a report by the Independent Review Panel on funding arrangements for schools, changes were introduced to increase weighted funding levels for schools with significant concentrations of pupils identified as being socially deprived. Additionally, funding for schools received a further £10 million for distribution in the formula to help support schools with the greatest concentrations of disadvantage – to address underachievement among their disadvantaged pupils.
Within the finite resources available to the Education budget, I will continue to seek to maximise available funding for schools and to target resources to those children most in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049738%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246183","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246183"}},{"id":"246181","reference":"AQW 49736/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-13","answerBy":"2015-10-28","answered":"2015-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department is working with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to develop a specific rural health strategy that ensures equitable access to health services for older and isolated people.","answerText":"I am not aware of a specific rural health strategy being led by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS). However, under my Department’s Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework there are a number of initiatives being taken forward in conjunction with DHSSPS and the Public Health Agency that support the needs of rural dwellers in accessing healthcare services.\n\nYou will also be aware that it is my intention to progress a Rural Needs Bill within the current Assembly mandate. The proposed Bill will introduce a statutory duty on all Departments and local councils to consider the needs of rural dwellers when developing and implementing government policies and strategies and delivering public services including the provision of health services in rural areas.","answerHtml":"I am not aware of a specific rural health strategy being led by the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS). However, under my Department’s Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework there are a number of initiatives being taken forward in conjunction with DHSSPS and the Public Health Agency that support the needs of rural dwellers in accessing healthcare services.
You will also be aware that it is my intention to progress a Rural Needs Bill within the current Assembly mandate. The proposed Bill will introduce a statutory duty on all Departments and local councils to consider the needs of rural dwellers when developing and implementing government policies and strategies and delivering public services including the provision of health services in rural areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049736%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246181","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246181"}},{"id":"246054","reference":"AQW 49708/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-12","answerBy":"2015-10-27","answered":"2015-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department is working with the Department for Employment and Learning; and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to develop a formal and holistic strategy for 14-19 year olds.","answerText":"My Department’s policy on education for 14-19 year olds is to ensure our young people have access to economically relevant and individually engaging courses that have clear progression pathways for their future.\n\nI have tasked my officials, working with officials in the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL), with producing a joint statement on the range of policies and programmes that the two Departments deliver to support young people in the 16-19 age group, including identifying any gaps and actions required. This age group is where Departmental policies naturally complement each other in terms of the choices open to young people once compulsory schooling is completed.","answerHtml":"My Department’s policy on education for 14-19 year olds is to ensure our young people have access to economically relevant and individually engaging courses that have clear progression pathways for their future.
I have tasked my officials, working with officials in the Department for Employment and Learning (DEL), with producing a joint statement on the range of policies and programmes that the two Departments deliver to support young people in the 16-19 age group, including identifying any gaps and actions required. This age group is where Departmental policies naturally complement each other in terms of the choices open to young people once compulsory schooling is completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049708%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246054"}},{"id":"246052","reference":"AQW 49706/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-12","answerBy":"2015-10-15","answered":"2015-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 48938/11-16, how individual need will be assessed; and how measures to support struggling dairy farmers will be allocated and distributed.","answerText":"As I stated in the Assembly on 12 October the payments to individual farmers will be assessed on the basis of their milk production and they will receive a flat rate for each litre of that production. The reference point for this assessment will be the level of a farmer’s production during the last year of the milk quota system, that is, 2014/15. This will ensure that payments can be calculated and delivered as quickly as possible to our hard-pressed dairy farmers.\n\nThe payments will be distributed to dairy farmers by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA), which is the most efficient and effective approach to taking this exercise forward. Importantly, it will have no implications for the processing of Basic Payments here. I understand how vital Basic Payments are to farmers across all sectors and I am committed to ensuring that as many farmers as possible receive their payments in December.\n\nMy officials are talking to DEFRA officials on an ongoing basis about the detailed practicalities of making the payments to dairy farmers and the subordinate legislation that will also be required in this Member State.\n\nI am anxious that payments are made as quickly as possible, and, given that our farmers are in greatest need of support, I have told George Eustice that I want our farmers to receive their payments first. I have pressed him for the aid to be paid as early as possible by the RPA, and I expect that payments will be made in early December.","answerHtml":"As I stated in the Assembly on 12 October the payments to individual farmers will be assessed on the basis of their milk production and they will receive a flat rate for each litre of that production. The reference point for this assessment will be the level of a farmer’s production during the last year of the milk quota system, that is, 2014/15. This will ensure that payments can be calculated and delivered as quickly as possible to our hard-pressed dairy farmers.
The payments will be distributed to dairy farmers by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA), which is the most efficient and effective approach to taking this exercise forward. Importantly, it will have no implications for the processing of Basic Payments here. I understand how vital Basic Payments are to farmers across all sectors and I am committed to ensuring that as many farmers as possible receive their payments in December.
My officials are talking to DEFRA officials on an ongoing basis about the detailed practicalities of making the payments to dairy farmers and the subordinate legislation that will also be required in this Member State.
I am anxious that payments are made as quickly as possible, and, given that our farmers are in greatest need of support, I have told George Eustice that I want our farmers to receive their payments first. I have pressed him for the aid to be paid as early as possible by the RPA, and I expect that payments will be made in early December.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049706%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246052","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246052"}},{"id":"246051","reference":"AQW 49705/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-12","answerBy":"2015-10-27","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether his Department consider the breakdown of young people who are not in education, employment or training by Local Government Districts when compiling the Labour Force Survey.","answerText":"The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is a sample survey and is primarily designed to provide labour market information at the Northern Ireland (NI) level. Official statistics on the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) are available at NI and NUTS III level, but are not currently available from the LFS at Local Government District due to the wide statistical margins of error associated with such estimates at this level of disaggregation.\n\nTable 1 provides NEETs estimates for Northern Ireland and NUTS III areas for information.\n\nTable 1: Young people (16-24) who are NEET by NUTS III area, 2014\n\nNUTS III area\t16-24 NEET\tConfidence interval1 (000’s)\nTotal (000’s)\tRate (%)\nBelfast\t7\t17.0\t+/-3\nOuter Belfast2\t5\t13.8\t+/-2\nEast NI\t8\t17.8\t+/-3\nNorth NI\t7\t16.7\t+/-3\nWest & South NI\t9\t16.8\t+/-3\nNorthern Ireland\t35\t16.1\t+/-6\nSource: Labour Force Survey, Local Area Database 2014\n\nNotes:\n\nFigures may not sum due to rounding.\n\nMissing values are apportioned by single year of age for Northern Ireland and by age band for NUTS III area.\n\n1 The confidence intervals show the range that we would expect, in 95% of samples, would contain the true value.\n\n2 Based on ≤15 respondents.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency is currently combining a number of annual social survey datasets with the LFS sample to provide more robust estimates of economic status, below the NUTS III level.","answerHtml":"The Labour Force Survey (LFS) is a sample survey and is primarily designed to provide labour market information at the Northern Ireland (NI) level. Official statistics on the number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET) are available at NI and NUTS III level, but are not currently available from the LFS at Local Government District due to the wide statistical margins of error associated with such estimates at this level of disaggregation.
Table 1 provides NEETs estimates for Northern Ireland and NUTS III areas for information.
Table 1: Young people (16-24) who are NEET by NUTS III area, 2014
| NUTS III area | 16-24 NEET | Confidence interval1 (000’s) | |
| Total (000’s) | Rate (%) | ||
| Belfast | 7 | 17.0 | +/-3 |
| Outer Belfast2 | 5 | 13.8 | +/-2 |
| East NI | 8 | 17.8 | +/-3 |
| North NI | 7 | 16.7 | +/-3 |
| West & South NI | 9 | 16.8 | +/-3 |
| Northern Ireland | 35 | 16.1 | +/-6 |
| Source: Labour Force Survey, Local Area Database 2014 |
Notes:
Figures may not sum due to rounding.
Missing values are apportioned by single year of age for Northern Ireland and by age band for NUTS III area.
1 The confidence intervals show the range that we would expect, in 95% of samples, would contain the true value.
2 Based on ≤15 respondents.
The Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency is currently combining a number of annual social survey datasets with the LFS sample to provide more robust estimates of economic status, below the NUTS III level.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049705%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246051","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246051"}},{"id":"246050","reference":"AQW 49704/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-12","answerBy":"2015-10-27","answered":"2015-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of dairy farms in East Londonderry; and for her assessment of the impact of market volatility on farming in this geographical area.","answerText":"Analysis of the June Agricultural and Horticultural Survey indicates that there were 157 dairy type farms in this constituency in 2014.\n\nMarket volatility has been and continues to be a significant challenge for all farmers, but most notably dairy farmers in recent times. A considerable proportion of the milk product manufactured here is sold on international markets. These markets are affected by a range of factors outside our control, with the latest downturn attributed to a combination of the Russian ban on EU imports, adverse exchange rate movements and decreasing demand for milk products in China. The consequence of this has been a 32% reduction in the average milk producer price in the year to August 2015. This is one of the reasons why direct CAP support payments are so important in terms of providing farmers with a relatively predictable income stream. I fought hard for the CAP support budget to be maintained during the last reform of the CAP. However, it is also important that farmers are equipped with the tools to deal with volatility, which is why CAFRE is working with farmers through dedicated education and training programmes, as well as benchmarking, to help improve efficiency and embed greater resilience to market volatility within farm businesses.","answerHtml":"Analysis of the June Agricultural and Horticultural Survey indicates that there were 157 dairy type farms in this constituency in 2014.
Market volatility has been and continues to be a significant challenge for all farmers, but most notably dairy farmers in recent times. A considerable proportion of the milk product manufactured here is sold on international markets. These markets are affected by a range of factors outside our control, with the latest downturn attributed to a combination of the Russian ban on EU imports, adverse exchange rate movements and decreasing demand for milk products in China. The consequence of this has been a 32% reduction in the average milk producer price in the year to August 2015. This is one of the reasons why direct CAP support payments are so important in terms of providing farmers with a relatively predictable income stream. I fought hard for the CAP support budget to be maintained during the last reform of the CAP. However, it is also important that farmers are equipped with the tools to deal with volatility, which is why CAFRE is working with farmers through dedicated education and training programmes, as well as benchmarking, to help improve efficiency and embed greater resilience to market volatility within farm businesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049704%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246050"}},{"id":"246049","reference":"AQW 49703/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-12","answerBy":"2015-10-27","answered":"2015-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 48583/11-16, (i) to detail the extent to which his Department consulted with individual companies to discuss the importance of meeting their skills needs; and (ii) for his assessment of the capacity of Further and Higher Education institutions to meet these skills needs.","answerText":"(i) In the course of my work as Minister, I engage with companies on a daily basis, helping me keep appraised of their skills needs. In addition, I receive representations from companies through, for example, the Ministerial Working Groups on Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering and the ICT Skills Working Group, both of which I chair.\n\nFurthermore, my officials have regular contact with companies alongside Invest Northern Ireland through programmes such as Assured Skills, increasing my Department's business intelligence on in-demand skills.\n\n(ii) The Employer Support Programme is a skills development programme, funded by my Department and is delivered across Northern Ireland by the six Further Education (FE) colleges. There are two strands to the programme: InnovateUs which delivers skills necessary to engage in innovation activity; and Skills Focus, which aims to increase the skills levels and employability of a business’s existing workforce to qualification at level 2 and above.\n\nIn delivering under the Employer Support Programme, colleges focus on engaging directly with, and providing support to, employers through identifying future skills needs, in collaboration with employers/skills groups, and being both proactive and reactive to employer skills needs in order to provide tailored skills provision.\n\nThrough the InnovateUs programme, the six FE colleges delivered 529 projects in 2014-2015 and a further 226 in 2015-2016 to date, while 115 projects have been delivered via Skills Focus this year. These interventions have covered a wide range of areas including, ICT, Engineering and Hospitality and Tourism. Funding in 2015-2016 for the Employer Support Programme is £3.2m, of which £2m is for delivery of InnovateUs and £1.2m for Skills Focus.\n\nDue to the budget cuts facing my Department the universities are facing a reduction of full-time undergraduate places over the next three years. However, both universities have committed to protect narrow STEM places given the projected demand in these skills areas.\n\nTo further help inform the skills provision required for Northern Ireland, my Department has commissioned the development of a Northern Ireland Skills Barometer which will provide a clear indication of current, emerging and long term skills shortages. The barometer will also take account of future demand under a lower corporation tax environment, and it will provide a key role in shaping future policy. This work is now near completion for Year one and the key findings from the report will be published on 12 November.","answerHtml":"(i) In the course of my work as Minister, I engage with companies on a daily basis, helping me keep appraised of their skills needs. In addition, I receive representations from companies through, for example, the Ministerial Working Groups on Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering and the ICT Skills Working Group, both of which I chair.
Furthermore, my officials have regular contact with companies alongside Invest Northern Ireland through programmes such as Assured Skills, increasing my Department's business intelligence on in-demand skills.
(ii) The Employer Support Programme is a skills development programme, funded by my Department and is delivered across Northern Ireland by the six Further Education (FE) colleges. There are two strands to the programme: InnovateUs which delivers skills necessary to engage in innovation activity; and Skills Focus, which aims to increase the skills levels and employability of a business’s existing workforce to qualification at level 2 and above.
In delivering under the Employer Support Programme, colleges focus on engaging directly with, and providing support to, employers through identifying future skills needs, in collaboration with employers/skills groups, and being both proactive and reactive to employer skills needs in order to provide tailored skills provision.
Through the InnovateUs programme, the six FE colleges delivered 529 projects in 2014-2015 and a further 226 in 2015-2016 to date, while 115 projects have been delivered via Skills Focus this year. These interventions have covered a wide range of areas including, ICT, Engineering and Hospitality and Tourism. Funding in 2015-2016 for the Employer Support Programme is £3.2m, of which £2m is for delivery of InnovateUs and £1.2m for Skills Focus.
Due to the budget cuts facing my Department the universities are facing a reduction of full-time undergraduate places over the next three years. However, both universities have committed to protect narrow STEM places given the projected demand in these skills areas.
To further help inform the skills provision required for Northern Ireland, my Department has commissioned the development of a Northern Ireland Skills Barometer which will provide a clear indication of current, emerging and long term skills shortages. The barometer will also take account of future demand under a lower corporation tax environment, and it will provide a key role in shaping future policy. This work is now near completion for Year one and the key findings from the report will be published on 12 November.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049703%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=246049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=246049"}},{"id":"245987","reference":"AQW 49672/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-09","answerBy":"2015-10-26","answered":"2015-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what fiscal support exists for farm businesses in the agri-food sector which are seeking to expand.","answerText":"The 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme (RDP) is now being wound up, having provided £14.13m of fiscal support to farm businesses through the Farm Modernisation Programme.\n\nLooking forward, the Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS) will be a cornerstone of the 2014-2020 RDP and will be the main source of fiscal support from DARD for farm businesses seeking to expand. It will consist of a package of measures aimed at knowledge transfer, cooperation, innovation and capital investment.\n\nThe resource element of FBIS will comprise of support aimed at knowledge transfer, training, innovation, and cooperation. Supporting capital investment in the farming industry will be an important element of the FBIS and will likely be provided in a tiered manner that will be linked to the needs identified in the farmer’s business plan.\n\nThe main capital intervention is the Business Investment Scheme (BIS), aimed at assisting on-farm efficiency by supporting those who wish to invest to improve farm practices, grow their business and increase farm competitiveness. It has an indicative allocation of up to £193 million.\n\nThe plan is to roll out the FBIS package in a phased way. The early focus will be on making advice and support available to farmers through knowledge transfer measures to assist farmers to clearly identify their needs and make informed decisions about their business.\n\nThe first phase is expected to open for applications in October this year. This will establish Business Development groups for farmers to help them improve their knowledge of business management, new technologies and innovative ways of working. DARD is also planning to deliver Farm Family Key Skills training schemes, including farm safety and business planning in this initial phase.\n\nIt is anticipated that these early schemes will help farmers think carefully about their business plans in advance of the opening of the proposed BIS in 2016, and in particular before they decide to take on additional financial commitments.","answerHtml":"The 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme (RDP) is now being wound up, having provided £14.13m of fiscal support to farm businesses through the Farm Modernisation Programme.
Looking forward, the Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS) will be a cornerstone of the 2014-2020 RDP and will be the main source of fiscal support from DARD for farm businesses seeking to expand. It will consist of a package of measures aimed at knowledge transfer, cooperation, innovation and capital investment.
The resource element of FBIS will comprise of support aimed at knowledge transfer, training, innovation, and cooperation. Supporting capital investment in the farming industry will be an important element of the FBIS and will likely be provided in a tiered manner that will be linked to the needs identified in the farmer’s business plan.
The main capital intervention is the Business Investment Scheme (BIS), aimed at assisting on-farm efficiency by supporting those who wish to invest to improve farm practices, grow their business and increase farm competitiveness. It has an indicative allocation of up to £193 million.
The plan is to roll out the FBIS package in a phased way. The early focus will be on making advice and support available to farmers through knowledge transfer measures to assist farmers to clearly identify their needs and make informed decisions about their business.
The first phase is expected to open for applications in October this year. This will establish Business Development groups for farmers to help them improve their knowledge of business management, new technologies and innovative ways of working. DARD is also planning to deliver Farm Family Key Skills training schemes, including farm safety and business planning in this initial phase.
It is anticipated that these early schemes will help farmers think carefully about their business plans in advance of the opening of the proposed BIS in 2016, and in particular before they decide to take on additional financial commitments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049672%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245987","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245987"}},{"id":"245976","reference":"AQW 49669/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-09","answerBy":"2015-10-26","answered":"2015-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission to detail how the Assembly Commission’s Engagement Strategy 2015-16 is increasing engagement with (i) young people; (ii) older people; and (iii) other under-represented groups.","answerText":"The Assembly Commission’s Engagement Strategy 2015-16 includes a commitment to “build partnerships with relevant stakeholders to create and improve engagement opportunities with citizens and under-represented groups”. This work is primarily undertaken by the Education Service and Assembly Community Connect, managed by the Outreach Service.\n\nEngagement with young people is primarily, but not exclusively undertaken by the Education Service through an inward and outward visit programme for schools, universities, Colleges of Further and Higher Education and the informal youth sector.\n\nIn the academic year 2014-15, nearly 15,200 participants in 449 groups took part in the Assembly’s Education Programme; 12,500 on educational visits to Parliament Buildings and just over 2,500 as part of the outreach programme. The programme is available in English and Irish.\n\nThe Education Service has worked with Assembly Committees to gain young people’s views on a range of issues and enquiries, for example, Shared and Integrated Education and the School Inspectorate, the Road Traffic Bill’s proposed changes for learner and new drivers and the Together Building a United Community Strategy.\n\nThe Service works with the NEETs Forum (young people not in employment, education or training) to encourage hard to reach groups to engage with democratic politics. This involves outreach visits to NEET groups and encouraging forum members to participate in special projects.\n\nFurther engagement with young people is underway as part of an Erasmus+ Connections’ Project, which aims to promote dialogue between decision makers and young people. Young people were challenged to research an issue of their choice and communicate their findings to the Assembly. The young people focussed on mental health and will deliver their findings to Assembly Committees in early 2016.\n\nThe Education Service organises a series of Let’s Talk events around Northern Ireland to bring together young people and their MLAs. In 2014-15, these events involved around 100 young people and were held in Ballymena, Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Newry and Omagh. We hope to increase the number of these events to eight this year.\n\nThis year we worked with Belfast City Council and Cinemagic on the ‘Reel Politics’ project. It involved 24 young women from across Northern Ireland to explore the under-representation of women in politics by producing three films on the topics of Social Media, Domestic Abuse and lack of female representation in the Science, Technology, Engineering Arts and Maths sector. The films were screened on International Women’s Day on 6 March.\n\nIn November we will facilitate the Northern Ireland Youth Forum’s Youth Congress annual sitting in the Assembly Chamber to coincide with the UK Youth Parliament debate in the House of Commons Chamber, Westminster. More than 100 young people from a range of youth organisations will be involved.\n\nEducational Resources\n\nWe continue to develop new educational materials like the Education website to support teaching and learning about the Assembly and will launch four new videos for young people this year.\n\nWe have published an iBook – A Guide to the Assembly and Parliament Buildings - for students aged 16+ and an updated edition and e-book version will be available in March 2016.\n\nOlder People\n\nThe Assembly Community Connect (ACC) programme works to enhance connections between the Assembly and the Community and Voluntary sector through education and outreach.\n\nIn October, to mark the International Day of Older Persons, ACC brought together members of the Age Sector Platform and members of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum to Parliament Buildings to debate a motion as Northern Ireland’s inaugural Intergenerational Parliament. Members of Age Sector Platform will return to Parliament Buildings in December for its annual Pensioners’ Parliament.\n\nOther under-represented groups\n\nWhile ACC works with groups and individuals from across the Community and Voluntary sector, from 2014 to the present time, it has chosen to focus on engagement with women, persons with disabilities and the black and minority ethnic sector. In that time, ACC has engaged with nearly 6,000 people.\n\nWe have arranged and participated in a range of events focussed on these sectors, including a ‘Women in Politics’ panel event as part of Women of the World festival, Corrymeela’s ‘Stop Peace Unravelling’ event, the Belfast Mela, Chinese New Year, One Assembly; Many People event to mark Community Relations week, which included communities from across Northern Ireland sharing their culture through performances in Parliament Buildings.\n\nWe have developed tailored training programmes for a range of organisations including Guide Dogs for the Blind and Disability Sport NI, the letter involved Members and individuals taking part in a wheel-chair slalom in the Long Gallery.\n\nMost recently, we have been working with the NOW project on its Reading Rooms initiative to promote social inclusion and support people with learning disabilities.\n\nCitizens and a wide range of representative groups continue to take part in ACC’s free monthly training programmes offered to community and voluntary groups to raise awareness of how to engage with and facilitate participation with the Assembly.\n\nThis is just a sample of the engagement work undertaken by the Assembly and the Information and Outreach Directorate continues to proactively seek and identify opportunities for working with citizens and groups from across Northern Ireland and welcomes Members’ suggestions for and participation in engagement events and projects.","answerHtml":"The Assembly Commission’s Engagement Strategy 2015-16 includes a commitment to “build partnerships with relevant stakeholders to create and improve engagement opportunities with citizens and under-represented groups”. This work is primarily undertaken by the Education Service and Assembly Community Connect, managed by the Outreach Service.
Engagement with young people is primarily, but not exclusively undertaken by the Education Service through an inward and outward visit programme for schools, universities, Colleges of Further and Higher Education and the informal youth sector.
In the academic year 2014-15, nearly 15,200 participants in 449 groups took part in the Assembly’s Education Programme; 12,500 on educational visits to Parliament Buildings and just over 2,500 as part of the outreach programme. The programme is available in English and Irish.
The Education Service has worked with Assembly Committees to gain young people’s views on a range of issues and enquiries, for example, Shared and Integrated Education and the School Inspectorate, the Road Traffic Bill’s proposed changes for learner and new drivers and the Together Building a United Community Strategy.
The Service works with the NEETs Forum (young people not in employment, education or training) to encourage hard to reach groups to engage with democratic politics. This involves outreach visits to NEET groups and encouraging forum members to participate in special projects.
Further engagement with young people is underway as part of an Erasmus+ Connections’ Project, which aims to promote dialogue between decision makers and young people. Young people were challenged to research an issue of their choice and communicate their findings to the Assembly. The young people focussed on mental health and will deliver their findings to Assembly Committees in early 2016.
The Education Service organises a series of Let’s Talk events around Northern Ireland to bring together young people and their MLAs. In 2014-15, these events involved around 100 young people and were held in Ballymena, Belfast, Derry/Londonderry, Newry and Omagh. We hope to increase the number of these events to eight this year.
This year we worked with Belfast City Council and Cinemagic on the ‘Reel Politics’ project. It involved 24 young women from across Northern Ireland to explore the under-representation of women in politics by producing three films on the topics of Social Media, Domestic Abuse and lack of female representation in the Science, Technology, Engineering Arts and Maths sector. The films were screened on International Women’s Day on 6 March.
In November we will facilitate the Northern Ireland Youth Forum’s Youth Congress annual sitting in the Assembly Chamber to coincide with the UK Youth Parliament debate in the House of Commons Chamber, Westminster. More than 100 young people from a range of youth organisations will be involved.
Educational Resources
We continue to develop new educational materials like the Education website to support teaching and learning about the Assembly and will launch four new videos for young people this year.
We have published an iBook – A Guide to the Assembly and Parliament Buildings - for students aged 16+ and an updated edition and e-book version will be available in March 2016.
Older People
The Assembly Community Connect (ACC) programme works to enhance connections between the Assembly and the Community and Voluntary sector through education and outreach.
In October, to mark the International Day of Older Persons, ACC brought together members of the Age Sector Platform and members of the Northern Ireland Youth Forum to Parliament Buildings to debate a motion as Northern Ireland’s inaugural Intergenerational Parliament. Members of Age Sector Platform will return to Parliament Buildings in December for its annual Pensioners’ Parliament.
Other under-represented groups
While ACC works with groups and individuals from across the Community and Voluntary sector, from 2014 to the present time, it has chosen to focus on engagement with women, persons with disabilities and the black and minority ethnic sector. In that time, ACC has engaged with nearly 6,000 people.
We have arranged and participated in a range of events focussed on these sectors, including a ‘Women in Politics’ panel event as part of Women of the World festival, Corrymeela’s ‘Stop Peace Unravelling’ event, the Belfast Mela, Chinese New Year, One Assembly; Many People event to mark Community Relations week, which included communities from across Northern Ireland sharing their culture through performances in Parliament Buildings.
We have developed tailored training programmes for a range of organisations including Guide Dogs for the Blind and Disability Sport NI, the letter involved Members and individuals taking part in a wheel-chair slalom in the Long Gallery.
Most recently, we have been working with the NOW project on its Reading Rooms initiative to promote social inclusion and support people with learning disabilities.
Citizens and a wide range of representative groups continue to take part in ACC’s free monthly training programmes offered to community and voluntary groups to raise awareness of how to engage with and facilitate participation with the Assembly.
This is just a sample of the engagement work undertaken by the Assembly and the Information and Outreach Directorate continues to proactively seek and identify opportunities for working with citizens and groups from across Northern Ireland and welcomes Members’ suggestions for and participation in engagement events and projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049669%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245976"}},{"id":"245975","reference":"AQW 49668/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-09","answerBy":"2015-10-26","answered":"2015-10-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the proportion of young people considered to be not in education, employment or training (NEET) who (i) have a disability; (ii) are parents; and (iii) are carers.","answerText":"The information below has been produced on the basis of the nearest equivalent definition to NEETS available from the 2011 Census, namely “All usual residents in households aged 16 to 24 who are unemployed (excluding full-time students) or economically inactive (excluding retired and students)”. Ten per cent of the total NEET population of 33,516 self-report that they have a disability that affects their day to day activities ‘a lot’.\n\nA separate analysis based only on those NEETs for which the information requested is available shows that 21 % (7,027) have children.\n\nIn terms of care provision, almost 9% (2,935) of NEETs provide unpaid care.\n\nPlease note, as the full range of information required is not available for residents of communal establishments, the population used in this part of the answer (32,928) differs from that used in other outputs on NEETS.","answerHtml":"The information below has been produced on the basis of the nearest equivalent definition to NEETS available from the 2011 Census, namely “All usual residents in households aged 16 to 24 who are unemployed (excluding full-time students) or economically inactive (excluding retired and students)”. Ten per cent of the total NEET population of 33,516 self-report that they have a disability that affects their day to day activities ‘a lot’.
A separate analysis based only on those NEETs for which the information requested is available shows that 21 % (7,027) have children.
In terms of care provision, almost 9% (2,935) of NEETs provide unpaid care.
Please note, as the full range of information required is not available for residents of communal establishments, the population used in this part of the answer (32,928) differs from that used in other outputs on NEETS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049668%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245975","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245975"}},{"id":"245974","reference":"AQW 49667/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-09","answerBy":"2015-10-26","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether she is planning to bring forward any rate reduction schemes for small and medium enterprises, mindful of the impact that the minimum wage will have on operating costs for such enterprises.","answerText":"The minimum wage was introduced throughout the UK in April 1999 and there is no evidence to date to suggest that it has had a detrimental impact on enterprise or caused job losses.\n\nI have no plans to bring forward rate reductions to address something that has not presented an issue to date.","answerHtml":"The minimum wage was introduced throughout the UK in April 1999 and there is no evidence to date to suggest that it has had a detrimental impact on enterprise or caused job losses.
I have no plans to bring forward rate reductions to address something that has not presented an issue to date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049667%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245974"}},{"id":"245807","reference":"AQW 49617/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-08","answerBy":"2015-10-23","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of student applications to study Modern Languages at Ulster University, Coleraine, (i) from within Northern Ireland; and (ii) from outside of Northern Ireland, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"My Department does not hold the information you have requested. You may wish to write to the University directly on this matter.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold the information you have requested. You may wish to write to the University directly on this matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049617%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245807"}},{"id":"245795","reference":"AQW 49612/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-08","answerBy":"2015-10-23","answered":"2015-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment (i) for an update on the Driver Vehicle Agency's new driver licensing IT; and (ii) whether it will reduce the cost of driving licences.","answerText":"In response to AQW 46117/11-15, I indicated that the first phase of the replacement driver licensing system is scheduled to go live in April 2016 and that it will deliver improvements to the customer experience, service efficiencies and other enhancements. As these improvements are phased in, and efficiencies in service delivery begin to emerge, this will provide an opportunity to review the level of fees currently charged to applicants.\n\nIn the meantime, the Driver & Vehicle Agency will continue to ensure costs are kept to a minimum and all efficiencies are passed onto customers.","answerHtml":"In response to AQW 46117/11-15, I indicated that the first phase of the replacement driver licensing system is scheduled to go live in April 2016 and that it will deliver improvements to the customer experience, service efficiencies and other enhancements. As these improvements are phased in, and efficiencies in service delivery begin to emerge, this will provide an opportunity to review the level of fees currently charged to applicants.
In the meantime, the Driver & Vehicle Agency will continue to ensure costs are kept to a minimum and all efficiencies are passed onto customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049612%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245795","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245795"}},{"id":"245792","reference":"AQW 49611/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-08","answerBy":"2015-10-23","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the function of the £12 million childcare budget as allocated in 2011; (ii) the amount spent to date been spent to date; and (iii) a breakdown of the expenditure.","answerText":"When the Executive’s Childcare Fund was established in 2011 it was envisaged that it would provide all departments who have a role in childcare with an opportunity to deliver against improving the affordability and accessibility of quality childcare. With the launch of “Bright Start” the first phase of the Childcare Strategy in 2013, the Childcare Strategy Programme Board agreed that the Fund should be used strategically to meet priority needs, notably the need for school age childcare\n\nTo date, we have spent £4.2 million from Central Funds. This approach will maximise the impact of the £12m Fund, delivering long term benefits that address real childcare needs. The balance will continue to be used to resource the Key First Actions contained in Bright Start.\n\nA full break down of spending to date on Bright Start (Key First Actions) implementation is shown below.\n\nFinancial Year\tSpend\n2011/12\t£322,000\n2012/13\t£1,482,000\n2013/14\t£692,000\n2014/15\t£934,975\n2015/16 (April-September)\t£775,000","answerHtml":"When the Executive’s Childcare Fund was established in 2011 it was envisaged that it would provide all departments who have a role in childcare with an opportunity to deliver against improving the affordability and accessibility of quality childcare. With the launch of “Bright Start” the first phase of the Childcare Strategy in 2013, the Childcare Strategy Programme Board agreed that the Fund should be used strategically to meet priority needs, notably the need for school age childcare
To date, we have spent £4.2 million from Central Funds. This approach will maximise the impact of the £12m Fund, delivering long term benefits that address real childcare needs. The balance will continue to be used to resource the Key First Actions contained in Bright Start.
A full break down of spending to date on Bright Start (Key First Actions) implementation is shown below.
| Financial Year | Spend |
| 2011/12 | £322,000 |
| 2012/13 | £1,482,000 |
| 2013/14 | £692,000 |
| 2014/15 | £934,975 |
| 2015/16 (April-September) | £775,000 |
Number of GCSE and A-level examination entries in modern languages, 2011/12 – 2013/14
| 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | ||
| A-level | Western | 282 | 234 | 233 |
| North Eastern | 284 | 271 | 252 | |
| GCSE | Western | 2122 | 2067 | 1910 |
| North Eastern | 2598 | 2577 | 2413 |
Schools are encouraged to offer a wider range of modern languages and the curriculum provides schools with greater flexibility in the choice of subjects to meet the needs of their pupils. Schools are able to choose from any of the languages of the 27 EU member states to meet the requirements of the statutory curriculum, and can also add any other additional languages they wish.
The Department is continuing to work with a wide range of external bodies to promote the importance of 2nd language learning including the Languages Council, the Centre for Information on Language Teaching, the Confucius Institute and the British Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049607%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245783","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245783"}},{"id":"245658","reference":"AQW 49558/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-07","answerBy":"2015-10-22","answered":"2015-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the schools in (i) East Londonderry; and (ii) the rest of Northern Ireland that have qualified for and received Extended Schools funding in each of the last three years.","answerText":"I have arranged for the required information to be placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"I have arranged for the required information to be placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049558%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245658","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245658"}},{"id":"245657","reference":"AQW 49557/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-07","answerBy":"2015-10-22","answered":"2015-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the policies which exist to identify and safeguard the needs of small schools that are considered strategically important.","answerText":"The Department has a range of policies which apply to all schools and the main thrust of these policies is to support schools in the delivery of the curriculum and quality education to meet the needs of all pupils.\n\nThe Sustainable Schools Policy stipulates minimum enrolment criteria for school size at both primary and post-primary level. All schools are assessed against the six criteria and associated indicators to determine the sustainability of a school into the future. One of the criteria is ‘stable enrolment trends’. However, sustainability is not assessed simply on the number of pupils, but rather across the full range of criteria in the policy on a case by case basis, taking account of local circumstances. The key focus for all schools is the quality of education and it is for the school managing authorities to explore all the options for providing a school that is viable and sustainable into the future, including various models of collaboration.\n\nThe Department has specific arrangements in place to support schools which are small to ensure they are able to deliver the curriculum. .\n\nDelegated funds for schools are distributed under the Common Funding Scheme (CFS); and the funding formula distributions are based on a number of factors, including the Small Schools’ Support funding factor (SSSF). The SSSF is intended to target more resources towards smaller schools in order to facilitate the delivery of the curriculum. The SSSF is one of a range of funding support streams for small schools within the CFS, others being Primary Principal Release Time, Teachers Salary Protection and Foundation Stage Funding.\n\nIn addition to funding allocated directly to school budgets by means of the relevant funding stream, schools will also have access to central funds for specified purposes and the CFS sets out common arrangements governing disbursement of these funds by Funding Authorities.","answerHtml":"The Department has a range of policies which apply to all schools and the main thrust of these policies is to support schools in the delivery of the curriculum and quality education to meet the needs of all pupils.
The Sustainable Schools Policy stipulates minimum enrolment criteria for school size at both primary and post-primary level. All schools are assessed against the six criteria and associated indicators to determine the sustainability of a school into the future. One of the criteria is ‘stable enrolment trends’. However, sustainability is not assessed simply on the number of pupils, but rather across the full range of criteria in the policy on a case by case basis, taking account of local circumstances. The key focus for all schools is the quality of education and it is for the school managing authorities to explore all the options for providing a school that is viable and sustainable into the future, including various models of collaboration.
The Department has specific arrangements in place to support schools which are small to ensure they are able to deliver the curriculum. .
Delegated funds for schools are distributed under the Common Funding Scheme (CFS); and the funding formula distributions are based on a number of factors, including the Small Schools’ Support funding factor (SSSF). The SSSF is intended to target more resources towards smaller schools in order to facilitate the delivery of the curriculum. The SSSF is one of a range of funding support streams for small schools within the CFS, others being Primary Principal Release Time, Teachers Salary Protection and Foundation Stage Funding.
In addition to funding allocated directly to school budgets by means of the relevant funding stream, schools will also have access to central funds for specified purposes and the CFS sets out common arrangements governing disbursement of these funds by Funding Authorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049557%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245657"}},{"id":"245564","reference":"AQW 49536/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-07","answerBy":"2015-10-22","answered":"2015-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the costs incurred of the contract with Capita PLC since it was signed in November 2012 to deliver assessments for Personal Independence Payments under Welfare Reform.","answerText":"Contractual payments for services provided by Capita Business Services Ltd will only be made when the service commences and are informed by an exclusively output based financial model.\n\nHowever, a payment of £1.1m was made to Capita on the 1 August 2014 as compensation directly associated with the failure to implement Welfare Reform. Continued failure to introduce Welfare Reform will mean that further compensation payments will be inevitable and will contribute to the serious financial implications facing Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Contractual payments for services provided by Capita Business Services Ltd will only be made when the service commences and are informed by an exclusively output based financial model.
However, a payment of £1.1m was made to Capita on the 1 August 2014 as compensation directly associated with the failure to implement Welfare Reform. Continued failure to introduce Welfare Reform will mean that further compensation payments will be inevitable and will contribute to the serious financial implications facing Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049536%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245564"}},{"id":"245563","reference":"AQW 49535/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-07","answerBy":"2015-10-22","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail any costs incurred since May 2011 due to infrastructure set up in anticipation of the Welfare Reform Bill (NIA Bill 13/11-15) receiving Royal Assent.","answerText":"Whilst Welfare Reform has not yet been introduced in Northern Ireland, it has been necessary to undertake early implementation activity to ensure that systems and processes are sufficiently developed to be ready for changes that will be brought about by Welfare Changes. The costs incurred for the infrastructure changes are detailed below:\n\nType\tCost to date\nAccommodation - Knockbreda JBO (supports early testing of some Universal Credit service delivery components)\t£39,000\nIT Development (Discretionary Support)\t£95,000\nIT Health Check\t£3,790\nTelephony (Discretionary Support)\t£31,000\nIT for Appeals Reform\t£81,080\nTotals\t£24,9870","answerHtml":"Whilst Welfare Reform has not yet been introduced in Northern Ireland, it has been necessary to undertake early implementation activity to ensure that systems and processes are sufficiently developed to be ready for changes that will be brought about by Welfare Changes. The costs incurred for the infrastructure changes are detailed below:
| Type | Cost to date |
| Accommodation - Knockbreda JBO (supports early testing of some Universal Credit service delivery components) | £39,000 |
| IT Development (Discretionary Support) | £95,000 |
| IT Health Check | £3,790 |
| Telephony (Discretionary Support) | £31,000 |
| IT for Appeals Reform | £81,080 |
| Totals | £24,9870 |
I have considered the role fulfilled by the NI Ombudsman, which provides for complaints relating to the activities of public bodies, including government departments, and I am content that the current arrangements are satisfactory. Therefore, I do not consider the appointment of an Agricultural Ombudsman is necessary in the north.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049522%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245545","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245545"}},{"id":"245390","reference":"AQW 49472/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-06","answerBy":"2015-10-09","answered":"2015-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether they intend to bring age discrimination legislation to the Assembly before the end of the current mandate; and using accelerated passage if required.","answerText":"Public consultation on proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The consultation responses are currently being analysed and they will be taken into account when finalising policy proposals. We will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"Public consultation on proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The consultation responses are currently being analysed and they will be taken into account when finalising policy proposals. We will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049472%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245390","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245390"}},{"id":"245388","reference":"AQW 49471/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-06","answerBy":"2015-10-21","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what feedback they have received in relation to the proposal to extend age discrimination legislation only to people that are over sixteen years of age.","answerText":"Public consultation on policy proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The responses received during the consultation period are currently being analysed. A consultation report, which will provide an overall summary and analysis of the consultation responses, will be published in due course.","answerHtml":"Public consultation on policy proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The responses received during the consultation period are currently being analysed. A consultation report, which will provide an overall summary and analysis of the consultation responses, will be published in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049471%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245388","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245388"}},{"id":"245387","reference":"AQW 49470/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-06","answerBy":"2015-10-21","answered":"2015-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, under the new departmental structures, to detail which Department will be responsible for age discrimination in respect of goods, provisions and services.","answerText":"Policy responsibility for age discrimination in respect of goods, facilities and services under the new departmental structures is currently under consideration.","answerHtml":"Policy responsibility for age discrimination in respect of goods, facilities and services under the new departmental structures is currently under consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049470%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245387","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245387"}},{"id":"245305","reference":"AQW 49444/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-05","answerBy":"2015-10-20","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) what mechanisms exist to link the Sub-Committees on Poverty and Social Inclusion and Children and Young People with the Pathways to Success Strategy; (ii) how these are operating in practice; and (iii) what steps have been taken to ensure that Pathways to Success forms a key part of the Delivering Social Change Programme.","answerText":"Delivering Social Change is the Executive’s framework to deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages and aims to provide an outline framework for future social policy interventions.\n\nThe Executive’s Ministerial Sub-Committees on Poverty and Social Inclusion and Children and Young People lead on the Delivering Social Change programme of work. Both Sub-Committees meet once a year and there is also one joint meeting. The Ministerial Sub-Committees are supported by the Delivering Social Change Programme Board and the Delivering Social Change/Atlantic Philanthropies Programme Board.\n\nThe Department for Employment and Learning contributes fully to the work of Delivering Social Change and with regard to ministerial and programme board meetings on this matter, provides regular updates on its key activity in support of same, including appropriate updates and information concerning the Pathways to Success Strategy.\n\nPathways to Success is intended to provide the best chance for some of the most vulnerable young people in our society. The aim is to guide them towards playing a full role in the life of our community and economy, with the skills our region needs for the future.\n\nThe Community Family Support Programme, one of the Pathways interventions, reports monthly to the Early Intervention Transformation Programme’s (EITP) Project Board which in turn reports to the Delivering Social Change /Atlantic Philanthropy Programme Board.\n\nThe EITP Programme is one of three Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes, announced by the then First Minister and deputy First Minister in September 2014, which are being jointly funded with Atlantic Philanthropies.\n\nThe Department for Employment and Learning has also been involved in chairing cross Departmental Groups to develop policy papers on issues such as low skills and disengaged youth.","answerHtml":"Delivering Social Change is the Executive’s framework to deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages and aims to provide an outline framework for future social policy interventions.
The Executive’s Ministerial Sub-Committees on Poverty and Social Inclusion and Children and Young People lead on the Delivering Social Change programme of work. Both Sub-Committees meet once a year and there is also one joint meeting. The Ministerial Sub-Committees are supported by the Delivering Social Change Programme Board and the Delivering Social Change/Atlantic Philanthropies Programme Board.
The Department for Employment and Learning contributes fully to the work of Delivering Social Change and with regard to ministerial and programme board meetings on this matter, provides regular updates on its key activity in support of same, including appropriate updates and information concerning the Pathways to Success Strategy.
Pathways to Success is intended to provide the best chance for some of the most vulnerable young people in our society. The aim is to guide them towards playing a full role in the life of our community and economy, with the skills our region needs for the future.
The Community Family Support Programme, one of the Pathways interventions, reports monthly to the Early Intervention Transformation Programme’s (EITP) Project Board which in turn reports to the Delivering Social Change /Atlantic Philanthropy Programme Board.
The EITP Programme is one of three Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes, announced by the then First Minister and deputy First Minister in September 2014, which are being jointly funded with Atlantic Philanthropies.
The Department for Employment and Learning has also been involved in chairing cross Departmental Groups to develop policy papers on issues such as low skills and disengaged youth.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049444%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245305"}},{"id":"245295","reference":"AQW 49442/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-05","answerBy":"2015-10-20","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department plans to develop mechanisms for young people to expand their engagement with the implementation of the Pathways to Success strategy; with particular focus on their involvement when setting revised outcomes.","answerText":"The ‘Pathways to Success’ approach has a particular focus on helping those young people who face barriers to participation, while also dovetailing with complementary proposals to tackle the wider problem of youth unemployment in the current challenging economic context.\n\nIn developing the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy, my Department helped establish the independent NEET (not in employment, education or training) forum to engage and help join up those organisations in the voluntary and community sector who deliver services in this area. Forum members are also represented on the NEET Advisory Group.\n\nThe NEET Strategy Forum has established the NEET Youth Forum (NYF), a regional network of young people who have experienced difficulties in accessing meaningful education, employment and training. Regional NEET Youth Hubs provide the members for a NYF. To support this work, my Department has recently agreed to provide £108,000 funding to continue the work of the Forum in 2015/16.\n\nThe NEET Youth Forum takes a ‘learning by doing’ approach. Members share knowledge and lived experiences, and develop a collective understanding of the NEET reduction agenda, and the workings of associated strategy. Through this active engagement and participation, they develop an informed collective position that enables them to proactively engage in the development of policy, programmes and services. The ultimate aim is that members have influenced the improvement of economic outcomes for young people further removed from the labour market.","answerHtml":"The ‘Pathways to Success’ approach has a particular focus on helping those young people who face barriers to participation, while also dovetailing with complementary proposals to tackle the wider problem of youth unemployment in the current challenging economic context.
In developing the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy, my Department helped establish the independent NEET (not in employment, education or training) forum to engage and help join up those organisations in the voluntary and community sector who deliver services in this area. Forum members are also represented on the NEET Advisory Group.
The NEET Strategy Forum has established the NEET Youth Forum (NYF), a regional network of young people who have experienced difficulties in accessing meaningful education, employment and training. Regional NEET Youth Hubs provide the members for a NYF. To support this work, my Department has recently agreed to provide £108,000 funding to continue the work of the Forum in 2015/16.
The NEET Youth Forum takes a ‘learning by doing’ approach. Members share knowledge and lived experiences, and develop a collective understanding of the NEET reduction agenda, and the workings of associated strategy. Through this active engagement and participation, they develop an informed collective position that enables them to proactively engage in the development of policy, programmes and services. The ultimate aim is that members have influenced the improvement of economic outcomes for young people further removed from the labour market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049442%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245295","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245295"}},{"id":"245294","reference":"AQW 49441/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-05","answerBy":"2015-10-20","answered":"2015-11-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail whether his Department has had any discussions with the NEET Youth Forum regarding the possibility of representatives chairing or co-chairing the NEET Advisory Group.","answerText":"Discussions between my officials and the NEET Strategy Forum, the organisation which manages the NEET Youth Forum (NYF), about the future role of the overall organisation given the current refresh of the Pathways to Success strategy, are ongoing.\n\nThe NYF has been directly represented on the NEET Advisory Group since December 2014.\n\nThere have been direct discussions with the NYF Regional Project Manager about the possibility of a young person co-chairing the NEET Advisory Group. This may be a future option as members of the NYF gain in confidence.\n\nI will be happy to keep the possibility of a young person co-chairing the NEET Advisory Group under review.","answerHtml":"Discussions between my officials and the NEET Strategy Forum, the organisation which manages the NEET Youth Forum (NYF), about the future role of the overall organisation given the current refresh of the Pathways to Success strategy, are ongoing.
The NYF has been directly represented on the NEET Advisory Group since December 2014.
There have been direct discussions with the NYF Regional Project Manager about the possibility of a young person co-chairing the NEET Advisory Group. This may be a future option as members of the NYF gain in confidence.
I will be happy to keep the possibility of a young person co-chairing the NEET Advisory Group under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049441%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245294"}},{"id":"245293","reference":"AQW 49440/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-05","answerBy":"2015-10-20","answered":"2015-10-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail which Department will be responsible for the Pathways to Success Strategy following the proposed restructuring of Departments.","answerText":"Under the proposals adopted by the Executive the Pathways to Success Strategy will be incorporated into the work of the Department for the Economy following the restructuring of the departments within the Northern Ireland Civil Service. It will continue to be an Executive Strategy, with the Department for Economy in the lead role.","answerHtml":"Under the proposals adopted by the Executive the Pathways to Success Strategy will be incorporated into the work of the Department for the Economy following the restructuring of the departments within the Northern Ireland Civil Service. It will continue to be an Executive Strategy, with the Department for Economy in the lead role.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049440%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245293","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245293"}},{"id":"245292","reference":"AQW 49439/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-05","answerBy":"2015-10-20","answered":"2015-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how Pathways to Success projects collect data at an individual level regarding (i) participant characteristics; (ii) the forms of support they receive; and (iii) their destinations, both within projects and following their completion.","answerText":"Pathways to Success project mentors capture data, directly from clients availing of the respective programme, when clients join the project and when they progress to positive destinations. The information obtained from initial mentoring sessions is confidential and remains with the organisation, as very often young people in the NEET (not in employment, education or training) category have multiple barriers to employment. A broad spectrum of support is tailored to suit individual needs e.g. personal advice and mentoring, job search, interview preparation, one to one and group work, short accredited training courses, pre employment programmes and ongoing work placement opportunities.\n\nNEET interventions are intended to guide young people towards playing a full role in their communities and to support the economy, with the skills needed for the future. Project mentors supported young people while they were in training and, afterwards, followed up with the young people into their new destinations and continued to provide mentoring support. Going forward, European Social Fund (ESF) project providers will use Richter scales and other methodologies to track clients. Those who leave and return to the benefit system will be tracked through the Client Management System and with the support of Careers Service staff.\n\nThe outcomes achieved from previous Pathways interventions were collected by project organisations and were as follows. The Collaboration and Innovation Fund supported 6,017 young people aged 16 to 24 years who were in the NEET category. During the period January 2013 to March 2015 4,719 young people completed the programme with 692 (12%) moving into employment, 622 (10%) commenced education and 1,702 (28%) started training, representing an overall positive outcome of 3,016 (50%).\n\nThe Community Family Support Programme, was designed as a signature project for Delivering Social Change, and was piloted from January to June 2013. It successfully engaged 44 families and, subsequently, was up scaled to 720 families in 2013-15.\n\nBetween 2013-2015, a total of 610 families attended a Family Learning Component intervention session, and 458 young people participated on the programme with 293 entering education, training or employment. Further data was captured on those starting (341) and completing (74) essential skills, short accredited training courses (179) and other positive outcomes.\n\nThe Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS) supported 1,156 young people in 2014/15. A total of 480 young people moved to positive destinations of education, training or employment. Personal advice and mentoring support and ongoing support 13 weeks after a client secured employment was given to ensure job retention.\n\nMy Department’s aim is to continue the delivery of customer focused provision through the new NI ESF Investment for Growth & Jobs Programme from April 2015 to March 2018. Good practices delivered under previous Pathways projects will be continued under the new ESF strand to ensure support for the most disengaged young people continues.","answerHtml":"Pathways to Success project mentors capture data, directly from clients availing of the respective programme, when clients join the project and when they progress to positive destinations. The information obtained from initial mentoring sessions is confidential and remains with the organisation, as very often young people in the NEET (not in employment, education or training) category have multiple barriers to employment. A broad spectrum of support is tailored to suit individual needs e.g. personal advice and mentoring, job search, interview preparation, one to one and group work, short accredited training courses, pre employment programmes and ongoing work placement opportunities.
NEET interventions are intended to guide young people towards playing a full role in their communities and to support the economy, with the skills needed for the future. Project mentors supported young people while they were in training and, afterwards, followed up with the young people into their new destinations and continued to provide mentoring support. Going forward, European Social Fund (ESF) project providers will use Richter scales and other methodologies to track clients. Those who leave and return to the benefit system will be tracked through the Client Management System and with the support of Careers Service staff.
The outcomes achieved from previous Pathways interventions were collected by project organisations and were as follows. The Collaboration and Innovation Fund supported 6,017 young people aged 16 to 24 years who were in the NEET category. During the period January 2013 to March 2015 4,719 young people completed the programme with 692 (12%) moving into employment, 622 (10%) commenced education and 1,702 (28%) started training, representing an overall positive outcome of 3,016 (50%).
The Community Family Support Programme, was designed as a signature project for Delivering Social Change, and was piloted from January to June 2013. It successfully engaged 44 families and, subsequently, was up scaled to 720 families in 2013-15.
Between 2013-2015, a total of 610 families attended a Family Learning Component intervention session, and 458 young people participated on the programme with 293 entering education, training or employment. Further data was captured on those starting (341) and completing (74) essential skills, short accredited training courses (179) and other positive outcomes.
The Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS) supported 1,156 young people in 2014/15. A total of 480 young people moved to positive destinations of education, training or employment. Personal advice and mentoring support and ongoing support 13 weeks after a client secured employment was given to ensure job retention.
My Department’s aim is to continue the delivery of customer focused provision through the new NI ESF Investment for Growth & Jobs Programme from April 2015 to March 2018. Good practices delivered under previous Pathways projects will be continued under the new ESF strand to ensure support for the most disengaged young people continues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049439%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245292","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245292"}},{"id":"245204","reference":"AQW 49401/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-02","answerBy":"2015-10-19","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the business rates reliefs and exemptions available for the rural and equine sectors.","answerText":"There is a broad range of support for business rates in Northern Ireland that will apply to business in the rural and equine sectors provided they meet the qualifying criteria. These reliefs and exemptions are:-\n\nSmall Business Rate Relief, Small Business Rate Relief for Small Post Offices, Empty Shops Rates Concession, Charitable Exemption, Sports and Recreation Rate Relief, Residential Homes Rate Relief, Industrial Derating, Empty Premises Relief, Hardship Relief, and District Rates Convergence.\n\nThere is no provision provided exclusively to the rural and equine sectors except for the rates exemption for ATMs in rural areas. That scheme is legislated for up until 31 March 2016.","answerHtml":"There is a broad range of support for business rates in Northern Ireland that will apply to business in the rural and equine sectors provided they meet the qualifying criteria. These reliefs and exemptions are:-
Small Business Rate Relief, Small Business Rate Relief for Small Post Offices, Empty Shops Rates Concession, Charitable Exemption, Sports and Recreation Rate Relief, Residential Homes Rate Relief, Industrial Derating, Empty Premises Relief, Hardship Relief, and District Rates Convergence.
There is no provision provided exclusively to the rural and equine sectors except for the rates exemption for ATMs in rural areas. That scheme is legislated for up until 31 March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049401%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245204"}},{"id":"245203","reference":"AQW 49400/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-02","answerBy":"2015-10-19","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the total number of farmhouses paying rates in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry.","answerText":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.\n\nThe legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.\n\nThe District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.\n\nThe 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.\n\nThe total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.
The legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.
The District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.
The 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.
The total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049400%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245203"}},{"id":"245202","reference":"AQW 49399/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-02","answerBy":"2015-10-19","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of farmhouses that have benefited from a 20 per cent reduction in their rate payments following the revaluation of rates in 2015.","answerText":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.\n\nThe legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.\n\nThe District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.\n\nThe 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.\n\nThe total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.
The legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.
The District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.
The 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.
The total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049399%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245202","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245202"}},{"id":"245201","reference":"AQW 49398/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-02","answerBy":"2015-10-19","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail how farmhouses are assessed to determine whether they meet the criteria to qualify for a 20 per cent reduction in their rates payment.","answerText":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.\n\nThe legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.\n\nThe District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.\n\nThe 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.\n\nThe total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.
The legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.
The District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.
The 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.
The total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049398%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245201"}},{"id":"245200","reference":"AQW 49397/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-02","answerBy":"2015-10-19","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to define agricultural purposes and agricultural operations in respect of the criteria which are required by farmhouses to qualify for a 20 per cent reduction in their rates payments.","answerText":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.\n\nThe legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.\n\nThe District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.\n\nThe 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.\n\nThe total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"Schedule 12 Part II of the Rates (NI) Order 1977 sets out the requirements that apply when assessing the rateable capital value of a farmhouse.
The legislation requires the house to be occupied in connection with agricultural land and used as the dwelling of a person whose primary occupation is the carrying on or directing of agricultural operations. The legislation also allows for the situation where someone is employed in agricultural operations on the land in the service of the occupier and is entitled to use the house while so employed. Where definitions do not appear in legislation, interpretation is guided by case law.
The District Valuer within Land & Property Services will, in carrying out continuous revision of the Valuation List, inspect the property, discuss details with the occupier, and collect all relevant detail to ensure strict compliance with the statutory requirements.
The 2015 Revaluation was in respect of non domestic properties. Farmhouses and other domestic premises, therefore, were not re-valued in 2015.
The total number of properties entered in the Valuation List as farmhouses at the end of September 2015 was just over 32,000. The Valuation List is not compiled on the basis of parliamentary constituency; therefore, it is not possible to provide a figure for East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049397%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245200","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245200"}},{"id":"245027","reference":"AQW 49359/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-01","answerBy":"2015-10-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the amount of funding his Department has contributed to community and voluntary sector groups; and organisations that provide independent advocacy services, in each year since 2012.","answerText":"My Department provided annual funding of £4.7m towards the core administrative costs of voluntary and community organisations since 2012. Detail on funding to individual organisations is listed on the Government Funder’s Database and can be accessed at www.volcomgrantsni.gov.uk\n\nThe core funded organisations which advertise advocacy services on the Family Support NI website are Include Youth, MENCAP, Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health, Threshold, Parenting NI, Rainbow and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.\n\nMy Department has also funded organisations to attend advocacy training courses since 2012/13, as detailed in the table below.\n\n2012/13\n(£)\t2013/14\n(£)\t2014/15\n(£)\t2015/16\n(£)\nAlzheimer’s Society\t14,750\t14,960\t1,595\t1,495\nARC NI\t1,500\t880\t\t900\nAge Concern\t\t\t1,595\nBritish Deaf Association\t\t\t2,090\nCAUSE\t\t\t8,970\t1,495\nDisability Action\t1,4750\t14,960\t\t2,990\nDerg Valley Care\t\t\t\t3,090\nFaughanvale Community Project\t\t420\t420\nMindwise\t\t\t3,190\nNI Institute of the Disabled\t\t\t1,508\nPositive Futures\t1,650\nProspects\t\t\t\t395\nSense NI\t\t\t\t1,545\nVOYPIC\t\t\t\t1,595\nTotal\t£32,650\t£31,220\t£16,178\t£13,505","answerHtml":"My Department provided annual funding of £4.7m towards the core administrative costs of voluntary and community organisations since 2012. Detail on funding to individual organisations is listed on the Government Funder’s Database and can be accessed at www.volcomgrantsni.gov.uk
The core funded organisations which advertise advocacy services on the Family Support NI website are Include Youth, MENCAP, Northern Ireland Association for Mental Health, Threshold, Parenting NI, Rainbow and the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents.
My Department has also funded organisations to attend advocacy training courses since 2012/13, as detailed in the table below.
| 2012/13 (£) | 2013/14 (£) | 2014/15 (£) | 2015/16 (£) | |
| Alzheimer’s Society | 14,750 | 14,960 | 1,595 | 1,495 |
| ARC NI | 1,500 | 880 | 900 | |
| Age Concern | 1,595 | |||
| British Deaf Association | 2,090 | |||
| CAUSE | 8,970 | 1,495 | ||
| Disability Action | 1,4750 | 14,960 | 2,990 | |
| Derg Valley Care | 3,090 | |||
| Faughanvale Community Project | 420 | 420 | ||
| Mindwise | 3,190 | |||
| NI Institute of the Disabled | 1,508 | |||
| Positive Futures | 1,650 | |||
| Prospects | 395 | |||
| Sense NI | 1,545 | |||
| VOYPIC | 1,595 | |||
| Total | £32,650 | £31,220 | £16,178 | £13,505 |
Independent advocacy providers are responsible for the delivery of the advocacy services, under the terms of agreed contracts in place with either the Health and Social Care Board or Trusts. They work in specific services and localities, engaging with patients, service users and carers in both acute and community settings, including, where necessary, outpatient facilities for people who have mental health issues or learning disabilities.
The RQIA published the report of its review of advocacy services on 14 January 2016. I have accepted the findings, including the need for improvements to service provision. My Department is overseeing the development of an action plan to implement the report’s recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049356%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245024","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245024"}},{"id":"245022","reference":"AQW 49354/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-01","answerBy":"2015-10-16","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the independent advocacy services that have been commissioned by his Department and the Health and Social Care Board, in each of the Health and Social Care Trusts, since 2012.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board directly commissions regionally-delivered specialist advocacy services from:\n\nthe British Deaf Association;\n\nVoice of Young People in Care, and\n\nthe Eating Disorders Association Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Trusts commission advocacy services in line with local needs and priorities, for mental health, learning disability, physical disability, older people and children’s services, and carers.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board directly commissions regionally-delivered specialist advocacy services from:
the British Deaf Association;
Voice of Young People in Care, and
the Eating Disorders Association Northern Ireland.
The Health and Social Care Trusts commission advocacy services in line with local needs and priorities, for mental health, learning disability, physical disability, older people and children’s services, and carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049354%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245022"}},{"id":"245017","reference":"AQW 49349/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-01","answerBy":"2015-10-16","answered":"2016-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (i) who is responsible for ensuring that independent advocacy services are readily available for people who have mental health issues or learning disabilities; and (ii) for his assessment of these services.","answerText":"(i) The Health and Social Care Board is responsible for identifying the need for advocacy services for children and adults, and commissions some services directly through regional contracts. Health and Social Care Trusts are responsible for commissioning advocacy services to meet the identified needs of their local population.\n\n(ii) The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority published the report on its review of advocacy services in Northern Ireland on 14 January 2016. I have accepted the findings of the report, and my Department is overseeing the completion of an action plan to implement the recommendations.","answerHtml":"(i) The Health and Social Care Board is responsible for identifying the need for advocacy services for children and adults, and commissions some services directly through regional contracts. Health and Social Care Trusts are responsible for commissioning advocacy services to meet the identified needs of their local population.
(ii) The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority published the report on its review of advocacy services in Northern Ireland on 14 January 2016. I have accepted the findings of the report, and my Department is overseeing the completion of an action plan to implement the recommendations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049349%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245017"}},{"id":"245014","reference":"AQW 49347/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-10-01","answerBy":"2015-10-16","answered":"2016-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether individual policies exist within each Health and Social Trust to facilitate direct payments for the care of (i) children; and (ii) adults.","answerText":"The Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 makes direct payments available to:\n\nDisabled people to whom section 1(1) of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons(NI) Act 1978 applies aged 16 or over;\n\nThose assessed as needing services under the Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1972;\n\nParents of disabled children;\n\nDisabled parents;\n\nCarers; and\n\n16 and 17 year old carers assessed for services under the Children Order (NI) 1995.\n\nMy Department issued the following overarching guidance to Health and Social Care (HSC) Board and Trusts in order to assist the HSC in implementation and the administration of an effective direct payment scheme. This guidance applies to all of the aforementioned groups and can be accessed via the attached link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf","answerHtml":"The Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002 makes direct payments available to:
Disabled people to whom section 1(1) of the Chronically Sick and Disabled Persons(NI) Act 1978 applies aged 16 or over;
Those assessed as needing services under the Health and Personal Social Services (NI) Order 1972;
Parents of disabled children;
Disabled parents;
Carers; and
16 and 17 year old carers assessed for services under the Children Order (NI) 1995.
My Department issued the following overarching guidance to Health and Social Care (HSC) Board and Trusts in order to assist the HSC in implementation and the administration of an effective direct payment scheme. This guidance applies to all of the aforementioned groups and can be accessed via the attached link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049347%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=245014","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=245014"}},{"id":"244926","reference":"AQW 49275/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-30","answerBy":"2015-10-15","answered":"2015-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the opportunities available under the European Social Fund for young people who are not in education, employment or training to achieve GCSE, or equivalent, qualifications.","answerText":"The European Social Fund (ESF) 2014-2020 programme objectives are to combat poverty; enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity; and increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.\n\nThe Programme is designed to reach those people furthest from the labour market, at risk of social exclusion, and young people from marginalised communities who require additional support. The Programme provides participants with a range of support including training, mentoring and pre-employment activities.\n\nDecisions regarding the level of qualifications to be supported under ESF-funded projects were informed by a range of connected Departmental policy reviews, including the review of Youth Training.\n\nProgression is a key component of the 2014-2020 ESF Programme. It is for this reason, that I took the decision to support provision up to Level 1 under the Programme. This means that individuals are enabled and encouraged to progress to Level 2 qualifications and above through other Departmental provision such as Further Education; Apprenticeships NI; or Steps to Success.\n\nAccount was also taken of the acute need to minimise duplication between programmes funded by my Department. This was particularly important within the context of the current budget constraints being faced by my Department.","answerHtml":"The European Social Fund (ESF) 2014-2020 programme objectives are to combat poverty; enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity; and increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.
The Programme is designed to reach those people furthest from the labour market, at risk of social exclusion, and young people from marginalised communities who require additional support. The Programme provides participants with a range of support including training, mentoring and pre-employment activities.
Decisions regarding the level of qualifications to be supported under ESF-funded projects were informed by a range of connected Departmental policy reviews, including the review of Youth Training.
Progression is a key component of the 2014-2020 ESF Programme. It is for this reason, that I took the decision to support provision up to Level 1 under the Programme. This means that individuals are enabled and encouraged to progress to Level 2 qualifications and above through other Departmental provision such as Further Education; Apprenticeships NI; or Steps to Success.
Account was also taken of the acute need to minimise duplication between programmes funded by my Department. This was particularly important within the context of the current budget constraints being faced by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049275%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244926","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244926"}},{"id":"244923","reference":"AQW 49272/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-30","answerBy":"2015-10-15","answered":"2015-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether a Minister that accepts a Ministerial post, having stated the intention to resign immediately, is in breach of the Ministerial Code and Pledge of Office for failure to fulfil Ministerial duties.","answerText":"It is a matter for the Assembly, in accordance with Sections 30, 47A and 51D of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, to resolve that a breach of the Pledge of Office has occurred. In addition, Section 28A of the Act requires Ministers to act in accordance with the provisions of the Ministerial Code. Any alleged breach of the Code could be decided as a matter of law.\n\nIt would be inappropriate for us to speculate on the outcome of any process which might be initiated in either case in relation to the circumstances you describe.","answerHtml":"It is a matter for the Assembly, in accordance with Sections 30, 47A and 51D of the Northern Ireland Act 1998, to resolve that a breach of the Pledge of Office has occurred. In addition, Section 28A of the Act requires Ministers to act in accordance with the provisions of the Ministerial Code. Any alleged breach of the Code could be decided as a matter of law.
It would be inappropriate for us to speculate on the outcome of any process which might be initiated in either case in relation to the circumstances you describe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049272%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244923","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244923"}},{"id":"244920","reference":"AQW 49271/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-30","answerBy":"2015-10-15","answered":"2015-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail any discussions his Department has had with the Department for Employment and Learning regarding the extension of Special Educational Needs statements to 21 years of age, for young people who require a longer period of time to achieve their educational goals.","answerText":"Department of Education (DE) and Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) officials met in October 2012 to consider whether there was merit in DEL extending the age of statements beyond 19 years of age. In subsequent correspondence with me, the Minister for DEL confirmed in March 2013 that, following consideration of the issue, DEL had no plans to extend the current age limit for SEN statements.\n\nOn 10 March 2015, during the debate at second stage on the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Bill, several MLAs again raised the issue of extending the age of statements beyond 19 years of age and I undertook to raise this issue again with the Minister for DEL.\n\nDEL officials have, however, since confirmed that they are content with the current arrangements for young people with SEN who are in training, Further Education or Higher Education and do not believe that statements are necessary to enable appropriate supports to be made.","answerHtml":"Department of Education (DE) and Department for Employment and Learning (DEL) officials met in October 2012 to consider whether there was merit in DEL extending the age of statements beyond 19 years of age. In subsequent correspondence with me, the Minister for DEL confirmed in March 2013 that, following consideration of the issue, DEL had no plans to extend the current age limit for SEN statements.
On 10 March 2015, during the debate at second stage on the Special Educational Needs and Disability (SEND) Bill, several MLAs again raised the issue of extending the age of statements beyond 19 years of age and I undertook to raise this issue again with the Minister for DEL.
DEL officials have, however, since confirmed that they are content with the current arrangements for young people with SEN who are in training, Further Education or Higher Education and do not believe that statements are necessary to enable appropriate supports to be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049271%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244920"}},{"id":"244919","reference":"AQW 49270/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-30","answerBy":"2015-10-15","answered":"2015-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department is working with the Department for Employment and Learning to provide options and support for young people with statements of Special Educational Needs during the transition between school and further education.","answerText":"The statutory responsibility for securing provision for school aged pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with both schools and the Education Authority (EA).\n\nThe EA’s Transition Service works in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service and Health and Social Care Trust professionals to ensure the provision of comprehensive and co-ordinated information about the range of post-school options available to young people with statements of SEN.\n\nDE is currently working with other key departments, including DEL, and the EA on improving and strengthening the transition planning process and has been actively involved with the cross-departmental focus group on Post-19 Transitions which was set up to identify gaps in the provision of transition services for young people with severe learning difficulties.","answerHtml":"The statutory responsibility for securing provision for school aged pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with both schools and the Education Authority (EA).
The EA’s Transition Service works in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service and Health and Social Care Trust professionals to ensure the provision of comprehensive and co-ordinated information about the range of post-school options available to young people with statements of SEN.
DE is currently working with other key departments, including DEL, and the EA on improving and strengthening the transition planning process and has been actively involved with the cross-departmental focus group on Post-19 Transitions which was set up to identify gaps in the provision of transition services for young people with severe learning difficulties.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049270%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244919","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244919"}},{"id":"244917","reference":"AQW 49268/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-30","answerBy":"2015-10-15","answered":"2015-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how his Department is working with the Department for Employment and Learning to provide options and support for young people that have Special Educational Needs but who are not statemented, during the transition between school and further education.","answerText":"The statutory responsibility for securing provision for school aged pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with both schools and the Education Authority (EA).\n\nParagraph 6.51 of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN (CoP) recognises that, in some instances, a pupil approaching the age of 16 may have SEN which do not call for a statement, but which are nevertheless likely to require some support during the transition process.\n\nThe Code makes clear that schools should seek to provide appropriate help and guidance for these young people. This may include the provision of school/FE college link courses or work placements. In some cases, such pupils may benefit from having a transition plan and schools should consider preparation of their own transition plans for non-statemented pupils with SEN who require additional support if going on to further or higher education or training.\n\nThe Department for Employment and Learning's Careers Service has Partnership Agreements in place with post-primary schools to support the schools’ careers education programmes and to provide advice and guidance on post-school options. These agreements allow schools, in consultation with qualified careers advisers, the opportunity to avail of impartial guidance services appropriate to the needs of their pupils, whether or not they are statemented, and to support them in their career decision making and the transition planning process.\n\nI am satisfied that the CoP , which is underpinned by legislation, together with the intervention of DEL’s Careers Service, provide appropriate guidance and support during the transition period for those young people with SEN who do not have a statement and who wish to progress to further education.","answerHtml":"The statutory responsibility for securing provision for school aged pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with both schools and the Education Authority (EA).
Paragraph 6.51 of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN (CoP) recognises that, in some instances, a pupil approaching the age of 16 may have SEN which do not call for a statement, but which are nevertheless likely to require some support during the transition process.
The Code makes clear that schools should seek to provide appropriate help and guidance for these young people. This may include the provision of school/FE college link courses or work placements. In some cases, such pupils may benefit from having a transition plan and schools should consider preparation of their own transition plans for non-statemented pupils with SEN who require additional support if going on to further or higher education or training.
The Department for Employment and Learning's Careers Service has Partnership Agreements in place with post-primary schools to support the schools’ careers education programmes and to provide advice and guidance on post-school options. These agreements allow schools, in consultation with qualified careers advisers, the opportunity to avail of impartial guidance services appropriate to the needs of their pupils, whether or not they are statemented, and to support them in their career decision making and the transition planning process.
I am satisfied that the CoP , which is underpinned by legislation, together with the intervention of DEL’s Careers Service, provide appropriate guidance and support during the transition period for those young people with SEN who do not have a statement and who wish to progress to further education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049268%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244917","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244917"}},{"id":"244773","reference":"AQW 49225/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-29","answerBy":"2015-10-14","answered":"2015-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the number of expressions of interest received for the Shackleton site at Ballykelly that are expected to progress as bids; and (ii) the expected timescale for completion of the sale of the site.","answerText":"We are determined to ensure the sale of Shackleton will deliver maximum benefits for the North West, including much needed employment opportunities.\n\nThe closing date for receipt of proposals for the site was 2 October and seven proposals have been received. It would be inappropriate at this stage to comment on the proposals given the commercially sensitive nature of the sale process.\n\nIt is anticipated the sale process will be complete early in 2016.","answerHtml":"We are determined to ensure the sale of Shackleton will deliver maximum benefits for the North West, including much needed employment opportunities.
The closing date for receipt of proposals for the site was 2 October and seven proposals have been received. It would be inappropriate at this stage to comment on the proposals given the commercially sensitive nature of the sale process.
It is anticipated the sale process will be complete early in 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049225%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244773"}},{"id":"244772","reference":"AQW 49224/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-29","answerBy":"2015-10-14","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether his Department has given any consideration to extending Special Educational Needs Statements to 21 years of age for young people that require a longer period of time to achieve their education goals.","answerText":"My Department first became aware of this matter when the Committee for Education expressed a desire to extend a young person’s statement into Further Education (FE) and Higher Education (HE) in June 2012.\n\nAs a result, officials from FE and HE Divisions met with Department of Education (DE) officials in October 2012 to discuss existing provision for young people with disabilities in FE and HE, and explore whether or not there would be merit in considering the extension of Special Educational Needs (SEN) statements up to and including age 24.\n\nFollowing informal discussions with the FE and HE sectors, both indicated that they did not consider the extension of SEN statements up to and including the age of 24 to be of any added educational benefit to students. It was also considered that statements flowing from schools were unlikely to reflect an individual’s support needs as they move into adulthood and into an FE or HE environment. It was considered that the existing assessment procedures in place for both FE and HE are more appropriate and reflective of the needs, provision and support available to students enrolling in FE or HE courses. This additional support provided to students in both FE and HE is irrespective of age and extending the age range of SEN statements would not have an impact on the support students would receive.","answerHtml":"My Department first became aware of this matter when the Committee for Education expressed a desire to extend a young person’s statement into Further Education (FE) and Higher Education (HE) in June 2012.
As a result, officials from FE and HE Divisions met with Department of Education (DE) officials in October 2012 to discuss existing provision for young people with disabilities in FE and HE, and explore whether or not there would be merit in considering the extension of Special Educational Needs (SEN) statements up to and including age 24.
Following informal discussions with the FE and HE sectors, both indicated that they did not consider the extension of SEN statements up to and including the age of 24 to be of any added educational benefit to students. It was also considered that statements flowing from schools were unlikely to reflect an individual’s support needs as they move into adulthood and into an FE or HE environment. It was considered that the existing assessment procedures in place for both FE and HE are more appropriate and reflective of the needs, provision and support available to students enrolling in FE or HE courses. This additional support provided to students in both FE and HE is irrespective of age and extending the age range of SEN statements would not have an impact on the support students would receive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049224%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244772"}},{"id":"244735","reference":"AQW 49213/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-29","answerBy":"2015-10-14","answered":"2015-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how families in need are being made aware of the Community Family Support Programme; how many families have benefited from this programme since April 2015; and to detail who the programme point of contact is in the Causeway Coast and Glens area.","answerText":"The Community Family Support Programme (CFSP) provides family support and employability mentoring for families with a young person not in education, employment or training. It is aimed at families who are marginalised and in most need of help.\n\nCFSP providers work in partnership with various referral organisations such as Health and Social Care Trusts, schools, community and voluntary organisations, Probation Board, Youth Justice Agency, GPs, schools and others to identify and target assistance at marginalised families with complex needs that are most in need of support.\n\nThe Programme has provided assistance to 308 families across Northern Ireland from April 2015 to date.\n\nCustomised Training Services is currently the lead organisation, working in partnership with Network Personnel, to deliver the Programme in the Causeway Coast and Glens District Council area. The main contact point for provision in this area is Network Personnel:\n\nHead Office\n\nThe Business Centre\n\n80-82 Rainey Street\n\nMagherafelt\n\nBT45 5AJ\n\nTel 028 79 631 032","answerHtml":"The Community Family Support Programme (CFSP) provides family support and employability mentoring for families with a young person not in education, employment or training. It is aimed at families who are marginalised and in most need of help.
CFSP providers work in partnership with various referral organisations such as Health and Social Care Trusts, schools, community and voluntary organisations, Probation Board, Youth Justice Agency, GPs, schools and others to identify and target assistance at marginalised families with complex needs that are most in need of support.
The Programme has provided assistance to 308 families across Northern Ireland from April 2015 to date.
Customised Training Services is currently the lead organisation, working in partnership with Network Personnel, to deliver the Programme in the Causeway Coast and Glens District Council area. The main contact point for provision in this area is Network Personnel:
Head Office
The Business Centre
80-82 Rainey Street
Magherafelt
BT45 5AJ
Tel 028 79 631 032
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049213%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244735","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244735"}},{"id":"244734","reference":"AQW 49212/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-29","answerBy":"2015-10-14","answered":"2015-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning (i) to detail the current data sources which provide information on young people who are not in education, employment or training; (ii) to detail how this data is disaggregated to identify and confirm specific characteristics; and (iii) for his assessment of the parameters of employment and training as specific to this definition.","answerText":"The main data sources which provide information on young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) are the Labour Force Survey and the 2011 census data. In addition, there are a number of government surveys which, when pooled together, yield information on young people who are employed, unemployed or economically inactive.\n\nThe Department of Education school census yields information on young people in education, as does the further education college database and the higher education institution databases (higher education information is provided by the Higher Education Statistics Agency which comes to my officials for further analysis).\n\nThese data sources hold different types of information such as gender, age, subject studied, etc. This range of data allows these characteristics to be cross-referenced with each other. The census information contains much more detailed background information on the family structure and household characteristics in which the young person lives. The Labour Force Survey source only contains information on the gender of the individual and whether or not they are unemployed or economically inactive. However, the Labour Force Survey information is updated quarterly.\n\nThe definition of NEET used in these analyses is a UK definition and conforms to the International Labour Organisation definition of employment and unemployment. The DFP/NISRA Labour Market Statistical Bulletin for October to December 2013 (published 28/2/2014) provides the following definition of a young person as being NEET:\n\n“A person is defined as NEET if they are aged 16 to 24 and not in employment, education or training (full-time or part-time).”\n\nWithin the estimate, a person is considered to be in education or training (part-time or full-time) if they:\n\nare completing an apprenticeship;\n\nare engaged on a Government employment or training programme;\n\nare working or studying towards a qualification;\n\nhave had job-related training or education in the last four weeks; or,\n\nare enrolled on an education course and are still attending or waiting for term to (re)start.\n\nTherefore, anybody aged 16 to 24 who is not in the above forms of education or training (part-time or full-time) and who is not in employment, is considered to be NEET. The definition of “in employment”, as recommended by the International Labour Organisation is anyone (aged 16 or over) who has done at least one hour’s paid work in the week prior to interview, or has a job they are temporarily away from (e.g. on holiday).\n\nPrevious NEETs figures produced in relation to Northern Ireland included those aged 16 to 24 who were in part-time education. However, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) first published quarterly NEETs figures for the UK in May 2013, based on the above definition. This was the first time Northern Ireland NEETs figures had been published and in order to allow comparisons with the UK regions, the official ONS definition has been applied since then.\n\nTo enable the Northern Ireland Executive to compare its performance with other jurisdictions in addressing the NEET issue, there has to be consistency in the definitions used.","answerHtml":"The main data sources which provide information on young people who are not in employment, education or training (NEET) are the Labour Force Survey and the 2011 census data. In addition, there are a number of government surveys which, when pooled together, yield information on young people who are employed, unemployed or economically inactive.
The Department of Education school census yields information on young people in education, as does the further education college database and the higher education institution databases (higher education information is provided by the Higher Education Statistics Agency which comes to my officials for further analysis).
These data sources hold different types of information such as gender, age, subject studied, etc. This range of data allows these characteristics to be cross-referenced with each other. The census information contains much more detailed background information on the family structure and household characteristics in which the young person lives. The Labour Force Survey source only contains information on the gender of the individual and whether or not they are unemployed or economically inactive. However, the Labour Force Survey information is updated quarterly.
The definition of NEET used in these analyses is a UK definition and conforms to the International Labour Organisation definition of employment and unemployment. The DFP/NISRA Labour Market Statistical Bulletin for October to December 2013 (published 28/2/2014) provides the following definition of a young person as being NEET:
“A person is defined as NEET if they are aged 16 to 24 and not in employment, education or training (full-time or part-time).”
Within the estimate, a person is considered to be in education or training (part-time or full-time) if they:
are completing an apprenticeship;
are engaged on a Government employment or training programme;
are working or studying towards a qualification;
have had job-related training or education in the last four weeks; or,
are enrolled on an education course and are still attending or waiting for term to (re)start.
Therefore, anybody aged 16 to 24 who is not in the above forms of education or training (part-time or full-time) and who is not in employment, is considered to be NEET. The definition of “in employment”, as recommended by the International Labour Organisation is anyone (aged 16 or over) who has done at least one hour’s paid work in the week prior to interview, or has a job they are temporarily away from (e.g. on holiday).
Previous NEETs figures produced in relation to Northern Ireland included those aged 16 to 24 who were in part-time education. However, the Office of National Statistics (ONS) first published quarterly NEETs figures for the UK in May 2013, based on the above definition. This was the first time Northern Ireland NEETs figures had been published and in order to allow comparisons with the UK regions, the official ONS definition has been applied since then.
To enable the Northern Ireland Executive to compare its performance with other jurisdictions in addressing the NEET issue, there has to be consistency in the definitions used.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049212%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244734","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244734"}},{"id":"244729","reference":"AQW 49211/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-29","answerBy":"2015-10-14","answered":"2015-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how his Department tracks young people who are not in education, employment or training; and for an update on the development of a system to track these individuals’ progress.","answerText":"My Department’s Client Management System is used, as far as possible, to track young people who have left school.\n\nAny young person who leaves education or training without a positive destination recorded in the school leaver data is case-loaded by the careers service. The Careers Service actively supports all 16 and 17 year olds who do not progress into training, education or employment on leaving school.\n\nThe electronic transfer of year 10 pupil data from the Department of Education to my Department took place, for the first time, in October 2012 and continues with the transfer for the current year 10 pupils scheduled to take place in December 2015.\n\nA research report, commissioned in 2012 by my Department, into improved tracking of young people who are not in education, employment or training recommended that:\n\nin the short term, the Department's Client Management System (CMS) should be enhanced, assuming costs are not excessive, to enable it to function as a rudimentary tracking system for young people; and,\n\nin the medium term, (next two to three years) a new tracking system should be established in Northern Ireland drawing on the National Client Caseload Information System (NCCIS) in England.\n\nSince then my Department has led on the introduction of the Learning Records Service’s Unique Learner Number across education and training sectors in Northern Ireland. This helps to identify those not engaged in education, employment and training and, from September 2015, all learners aged 14 plus in schools across Northern Ireland will be allocated a Unique Learner Number in Year 11.\n\nIn addition, emerging information from a number of data sources, including the 2011 census, has been used to provide more robust information on the characteristics of those in the NEET category.\n\nEstimates of the number of those in the NEET category are published regularly by the Department of Finance and Personnel in the Quarterly Supplement to the Labour Force Survey.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Client Management System is used, as far as possible, to track young people who have left school.
Any young person who leaves education or training without a positive destination recorded in the school leaver data is case-loaded by the careers service. The Careers Service actively supports all 16 and 17 year olds who do not progress into training, education or employment on leaving school.
The electronic transfer of year 10 pupil data from the Department of Education to my Department took place, for the first time, in October 2012 and continues with the transfer for the current year 10 pupils scheduled to take place in December 2015.
A research report, commissioned in 2012 by my Department, into improved tracking of young people who are not in education, employment or training recommended that:
in the short term, the Department's Client Management System (CMS) should be enhanced, assuming costs are not excessive, to enable it to function as a rudimentary tracking system for young people; and,
in the medium term, (next two to three years) a new tracking system should be established in Northern Ireland drawing on the National Client Caseload Information System (NCCIS) in England.
Since then my Department has led on the introduction of the Learning Records Service’s Unique Learner Number across education and training sectors in Northern Ireland. This helps to identify those not engaged in education, employment and training and, from September 2015, all learners aged 14 plus in schools across Northern Ireland will be allocated a Unique Learner Number in Year 11.
In addition, emerging information from a number of data sources, including the 2011 census, has been used to provide more robust information on the characteristics of those in the NEET category.
Estimates of the number of those in the NEET category are published regularly by the Department of Finance and Personnel in the Quarterly Supplement to the Labour Force Survey.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049211%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244729","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244729"}},{"id":"244653","reference":"AQW 49198/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-28","answerBy":"2015-10-13","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 48861/11-16, what steps his Department is taking to address the number of eligible school children who do not claim free school meals.","answerText":"The Department recognises that there are parents who are on benefits and would be eligible to apply for free school meals (FSM), who either choose not to apply or are not aware that they can apply for FSM. As detailed in the answer to AQW 48861/11-16, the Department issues a press release on an annual basis reminding all parents to consider whether they may be eligible to FSM and if so to apply. My officials are also working with colleagues in the Department for Social Development to explore ways of maximising the take up of benefits and additional support to which households are entitled including entitlement to FSM.\n\nBoth the EA and individual schools also play a key role in encouraging parents to claim their FSM entitlement. Some examples of the activities which they are involved in are detailed in AQW 48861/11-16.","answerHtml":"The Department recognises that there are parents who are on benefits and would be eligible to apply for free school meals (FSM), who either choose not to apply or are not aware that they can apply for FSM. As detailed in the answer to AQW 48861/11-16, the Department issues a press release on an annual basis reminding all parents to consider whether they may be eligible to FSM and if so to apply. My officials are also working with colleagues in the Department for Social Development to explore ways of maximising the take up of benefits and additional support to which households are entitled including entitlement to FSM.
Both the EA and individual schools also play a key role in encouraging parents to claim their FSM entitlement. Some examples of the activities which they are involved in are detailed in AQW 48861/11-16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049198%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244653"}},{"id":"244652","reference":"AQW 49197/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-28","answerBy":"2015-10-13","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the number of young people who have statements of special education needs, who progress to further education or training once they leave school.","answerText":"Depending on the nature of an individual’s needs, a young person with a statement of SEN may opt to progress to further or higher education, training or employment. Young people with particularly complex learning difficulties may also move to health and social care provision.\n\nThe 2013/14 School Leavers Survey indicates that the majority of young people in mainstream schools with statements of special educational needs (SEN) progressed to either institutions of further education or training opportunities when they left school.\n\nThere is a well embedded statutory transition planning process in all of our schools for young persons aged 14+ with statements of SEN. The Education Authority’s Transition Service helps young people with statements and their parents/carers access appropriate information, guidance and support to allow them to make informed choices for the future.\n\nThe Transition Service works in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service and Health and Social Care Trust professionals to ensure the provision of comprehensive and co-ordinated information about the range of post-school options available to young people with statements of SEN.","answerHtml":"Depending on the nature of an individual’s needs, a young person with a statement of SEN may opt to progress to further or higher education, training or employment. Young people with particularly complex learning difficulties may also move to health and social care provision.
The 2013/14 School Leavers Survey indicates that the majority of young people in mainstream schools with statements of special educational needs (SEN) progressed to either institutions of further education or training opportunities when they left school.
There is a well embedded statutory transition planning process in all of our schools for young persons aged 14+ with statements of SEN. The Education Authority’s Transition Service helps young people with statements and their parents/carers access appropriate information, guidance and support to allow them to make informed choices for the future.
The Transition Service works in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service and Health and Social Care Trust professionals to ensure the provision of comprehensive and co-ordinated information about the range of post-school options available to young people with statements of SEN.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049197%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244652","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244652"}},{"id":"244651","reference":"AQW 49196/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-28","answerBy":"2015-10-13","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how his Department is working with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to support Agri-Food businesses in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Since 2013 my Department and Invest NI has been jointly working with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to support agri-food businesses across Northern Ireland.\n\nIn 2013 Minister Foster endorsed the recommendations in the Agri Food Strategy Board’s “Going for Growth” report and Invest NI continues to work to support the delivery of these recommendations.\n\nIn 2014/15, Invest NI offered Agri-Food businesses in East Londonderry over £0.25 million of support towards a total planned investment of £0.9 million.","answerHtml":"Since 2013 my Department and Invest NI has been jointly working with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to support agri-food businesses across Northern Ireland.
In 2013 Minister Foster endorsed the recommendations in the Agri Food Strategy Board’s “Going for Growth” report and Invest NI continues to work to support the delivery of these recommendations.
In 2014/15, Invest NI offered Agri-Food businesses in East Londonderry over £0.25 million of support towards a total planned investment of £0.9 million.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049196%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244651","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244651"}},{"id":"244650","reference":"AQW 49195/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-28","answerBy":"2015-10-13","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how employment and sales within the Agri-Food sector have increased since the launch of the Agri-Food Strategy in 2013; and whether employment and sales figures are on track to meet targets.","answerText":"The Agri-Food Strategy Board’s report, “Going for Growth” was launched on 16th May 2013, and set the following industry targets for sales and employment in the Agri-food sector. By 2020:\n\nGrow sales by 60% to over £7billion;\n\nGrow employment by 15% to over 115,000;\n\nGrow sales outside NI by 75% to £4.5billion.\n\nDARD annually publish statistics on the “size and performance of the NI food and drinks processing sector”, which are publically available to download from http://www.dardni.gov.uk/size-and-performance-of-the-ni-food-and-drinks-processing-sector.htm\n\nThe latest available figures relate to 2013, with provisional estimates for 2014:\n\nTurnover was £4.772billion in 2014, an increase of 5.8% on 2013.\n\nExternal Sales were £3.304billion in 2013, an increase of 11.1% on 2012.\n\nIn terms of employment, the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s baseline assessment of employment of 100,000 in 2010 is composed of:\n\nTotal Agricultural Labour Force;\n\nEmployment in food and drink processing; and\n\nEmployment in the wider economy linked to the agri-food sector, such as haulage, packaging, hospitality and tourism.\n\nThe latest available recorded figures from the DARD Agricultural Census in Northern Ireland 2014 indicate that:\n\nThe Total Agricultural Labour Force was 47,900 in 2014, an increase of 0.2% on 2013.\n\nDirect Employment in Food and Drink Processing (Full-time equivalents) was 21,783 in 2014, an increase of 2.0% on 2013.\n\nNo figures were available in respect of employment in the wider economy.\n\nAs the latest available figures relate to the year of, and the year following, publication of the AFSB’s report, while it appears that performance is broadly on track to meet the AFSB’s targets to 2020, a time series of data is not yet available to measure the impact of the AFSB’s strategy on employment and sales.","answerHtml":"The Agri-Food Strategy Board’s report, “Going for Growth” was launched on 16th May 2013, and set the following industry targets for sales and employment in the Agri-food sector. By 2020:
Grow sales by 60% to over £7billion;
Grow employment by 15% to over 115,000;
Grow sales outside NI by 75% to £4.5billion.
DARD annually publish statistics on the “size and performance of the NI food and drinks processing sector”, which are publically available to download from http://www.dardni.gov.uk/size-and-performance-of-the-ni-food-and-drinks-processing-sector.htm
The latest available figures relate to 2013, with provisional estimates for 2014:
Turnover was £4.772billion in 2014, an increase of 5.8% on 2013.
External Sales were £3.304billion in 2013, an increase of 11.1% on 2012.
In terms of employment, the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s baseline assessment of employment of 100,000 in 2010 is composed of:
Total Agricultural Labour Force;
Employment in food and drink processing; and
Employment in the wider economy linked to the agri-food sector, such as haulage, packaging, hospitality and tourism.
The latest available recorded figures from the DARD Agricultural Census in Northern Ireland 2014 indicate that:
The Total Agricultural Labour Force was 47,900 in 2014, an increase of 0.2% on 2013.
Direct Employment in Food and Drink Processing (Full-time equivalents) was 21,783 in 2014, an increase of 2.0% on 2013.
No figures were available in respect of employment in the wider economy.
As the latest available figures relate to the year of, and the year following, publication of the AFSB’s report, while it appears that performance is broadly on track to meet the AFSB’s targets to 2020, a time series of data is not yet available to measure the impact of the AFSB’s strategy on employment and sales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049195%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244650","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244650"}},{"id":"244649","reference":"AQW 49194/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-28","answerBy":"2015-10-13","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the level of Government investment in the Agri-Food industry, in order to leverage investment from the industry, since 2013.","answerText":"Since 2013 to date my Department, through Invest NI, has invested £33.77 million in food manufacturing businesses in the Agri Food industry. This has leveraged a total planned investment by the industry of £402.44 million.\n\nFurther investment of £5 million was offered to assist establish and operate a Competence Centre for the Agri Food industry to invest in Research & Development.","answerHtml":"Since 2013 to date my Department, through Invest NI, has invested £33.77 million in food manufacturing businesses in the Agri Food industry. This has leveraged a total planned investment by the industry of £402.44 million.
Further investment of £5 million was offered to assist establish and operate a Competence Centre for the Agri Food industry to invest in Research & Development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049194%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244649"}},{"id":"244587","reference":"AQW 49154/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-25","answerBy":"2015-10-12","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on steps to achieve the Sport Matters commitment to ensure that 90 per cent of the population are within twenty minutes of quality accredited, multi sports facilities by 2019; and whether her Department is on course to meet this target.","answerText":"I can advise that the most recent annual Sport Matters progress report which was published in December 2014, indicated we were on track to achieve the target by 2019.\n\nHowever, the recent mid-term review of Sport Matters Strategy has recommended that this target should be amended to change from a time bound to a distance based target.\n\nIn terms of future plans to further develop multi sports facilities, I can confirm that Sport NI launched a new Sports Facility Fund on 18 May 2015 totalling £17.5 million Lottery funding which will be available for sports facility projects over the next five years.\n\nIn addition, Sport NI is currently working with the 11 District Councils to develop a Facilities Strategy for the north of Ireland and 11 associated District Council Area Reports. The project is a partnership between Sport NI and the District Councils and involves engagement with a number of other key stakeholders, such as Government Departments, Governing Bodies for Sport, Education Authorities, Sports Clubs and Universities.","answerHtml":"I can advise that the most recent annual Sport Matters progress report which was published in December 2014, indicated we were on track to achieve the target by 2019.
However, the recent mid-term review of Sport Matters Strategy has recommended that this target should be amended to change from a time bound to a distance based target.
In terms of future plans to further develop multi sports facilities, I can confirm that Sport NI launched a new Sports Facility Fund on 18 May 2015 totalling £17.5 million Lottery funding which will be available for sports facility projects over the next five years.
In addition, Sport NI is currently working with the 11 District Councils to develop a Facilities Strategy for the north of Ireland and 11 associated District Council Area Reports. The project is a partnership between Sport NI and the District Councils and involves engagement with a number of other key stakeholders, such as Government Departments, Governing Bodies for Sport, Education Authorities, Sports Clubs and Universities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049154%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244587","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244587"}},{"id":"244586","reference":"AQW 49153/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-25","answerBy":"2015-10-12","answered":"2015-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what funding has been made available since March 2015, to continue to address sports participation rates in the top 30 per cent most deprived areas.","answerText":"I can advise that since March 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, has provided Exchequer and Lottery funding of £430,776 to continue to deliver programmes to address sports participation rates in the top 30 per cent most deprived areas.\n\nI can confirm that additional funding is being sought to extend the Promoting Equality, Tackling Poverty and Social Exclusion through Sport Programme which ceased in March 2015.\n\nMy Department leads on one of the seven headline actions from the Executive’s Together: Building a United Community Strategy, namely the development of a Cross Community Youth Sports Programme. The principal focus of the Sports Programme is to enhance good relations, though the Programme also has the potential to increase participation in sport.\n\nA pilot project ran from January to March 2015 in the Lower Falls and Greater Village areas in Belfast, which are both within the top 30 per cent deprived areas. It is currently anticipated that up to £315,000 is to be invested in 2015/16 in the continuation of the programme in the pilot areas and to fund a minor sports equipment project to support sporting organisations with five or more volunteers.\n\nIn addition, a methodology for roll out of the Sports Programme is currently being developed. I have reprioritised £300,000 of Departmental funding to facilitate this roll out. It is my intention that in every community which hosts the TBUC Sports Programme the aim will not only be to build good relations, but also help to improve sports participation rates and target areas with significant social and economic challenges and a legacy of under-investment.","answerHtml":"I can advise that since March 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, has provided Exchequer and Lottery funding of £430,776 to continue to deliver programmes to address sports participation rates in the top 30 per cent most deprived areas.
I can confirm that additional funding is being sought to extend the Promoting Equality, Tackling Poverty and Social Exclusion through Sport Programme which ceased in March 2015.
My Department leads on one of the seven headline actions from the Executive’s Together: Building a United Community Strategy, namely the development of a Cross Community Youth Sports Programme. The principal focus of the Sports Programme is to enhance good relations, though the Programme also has the potential to increase participation in sport.
A pilot project ran from January to March 2015 in the Lower Falls and Greater Village areas in Belfast, which are both within the top 30 per cent deprived areas. It is currently anticipated that up to £315,000 is to be invested in 2015/16 in the continuation of the programme in the pilot areas and to fund a minor sports equipment project to support sporting organisations with five or more volunteers.
In addition, a methodology for roll out of the Sports Programme is currently being developed. I have reprioritised £300,000 of Departmental funding to facilitate this roll out. It is my intention that in every community which hosts the TBUC Sports Programme the aim will not only be to build good relations, but also help to improve sports participation rates and target areas with significant social and economic challenges and a legacy of under-investment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049153%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244586","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244586"}},{"id":"244585","reference":"AQW 49152/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-25","answerBy":"2015-10-12","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the funding availability for the development of a sports complex at Dungiven; and when the decision will be made on progressing this project.","answerText":"I am committed to seeking to secure £2.5Million for the development of a community sports complex at Dungiven, as part of the City of Culture for the North West. This commitment, like all major capital investment, is subject to budget availability and the approval of a business case which will include confirmation of any necessary partnership funding for the project.\n\nThe Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has completed a consultation exercise on plans for sporting provision in Dungiven and is progressing with the development of a business case and detailed designs.\n\nOfficials from DCAL and Sport NI continue to work closely with the Council to\n\nprovide advice and support with regard to the business case.","answerHtml":"I am committed to seeking to secure £2.5Million for the development of a community sports complex at Dungiven, as part of the City of Culture for the North West. This commitment, like all major capital investment, is subject to budget availability and the approval of a business case which will include confirmation of any necessary partnership funding for the project.
The Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council has completed a consultation exercise on plans for sporting provision in Dungiven and is progressing with the development of a business case and detailed designs.
Officials from DCAL and Sport NI continue to work closely with the Council to
provide advice and support with regard to the business case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049152%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244585"}},{"id":"244584","reference":"AQW 49151/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-25","answerBy":"2015-10-12","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for her assessment of the importance of grassroots volunteers within community sport; and what support her Department offers.","answerText":"The role of volunteers in our society is significant and they are to be commended for their active support and role in many aspects of sport, including grassroots and community sport. Their contribution to sport at all levels is critical to the sustainability of the sport, to society in general in terms of health and well being and to our communities.\n\nI can advise that during the 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years, Sport NI has invested approximately £1.5 million in 270 community/voluntary sports projects through the Active Awards for Sport programme, with anticipated learning opportunities for 2,132 volunteers. In addition, Sport NI provides a wide range of programmes that supports coaching and volunteer learning and development within a number of organisations including, Governing Bodies of sport, Sports clubs, Disability Sport NI and Special Olympics.\n\nI recognise that the development and maintenance of organised sport in the north of Ireland is heavily dependent on volunteering.\n\nThe findings in the recent mid-term review of Sport Matters indicates that there were over 150,000 adults in the North of Ireland who had volunteered in sport in various capacities and frequencies. In addition, many people in the North’s community value the chance to volunteer in sport and there is evidence to suggest that they would welcome more opportunity to do so. The report therefore recommends that stakeholders such as local authorities, sports Governing Bodies and representatives from the voluntary and community sectors, should consider how additional opportunities for volunteering might be provided and how barriers such as training and skills needs can be addressed. This will be achieved through ongoing activities to resource and support volunteers through clubs and Governing Bodies and to promote volunteering in sport with employers. Continued commitment by volunteers can be recognised through engagement with coaching and qualification opportunities.","answerHtml":"The role of volunteers in our society is significant and they are to be commended for their active support and role in many aspects of sport, including grassroots and community sport. Their contribution to sport at all levels is critical to the sustainability of the sport, to society in general in terms of health and well being and to our communities.
I can advise that during the 2014/15 and 2015/16 financial years, Sport NI has invested approximately £1.5 million in 270 community/voluntary sports projects through the Active Awards for Sport programme, with anticipated learning opportunities for 2,132 volunteers. In addition, Sport NI provides a wide range of programmes that supports coaching and volunteer learning and development within a number of organisations including, Governing Bodies of sport, Sports clubs, Disability Sport NI and Special Olympics.
I recognise that the development and maintenance of organised sport in the north of Ireland is heavily dependent on volunteering.
The findings in the recent mid-term review of Sport Matters indicates that there were over 150,000 adults in the North of Ireland who had volunteered in sport in various capacities and frequencies. In addition, many people in the North’s community value the chance to volunteer in sport and there is evidence to suggest that they would welcome more opportunity to do so. The report therefore recommends that stakeholders such as local authorities, sports Governing Bodies and representatives from the voluntary and community sectors, should consider how additional opportunities for volunteering might be provided and how barriers such as training and skills needs can be addressed. This will be achieved through ongoing activities to resource and support volunteers through clubs and Governing Bodies and to promote volunteering in sport with employers. Continued commitment by volunteers can be recognised through engagement with coaching and qualification opportunities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049151%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244584","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244584"}},{"id":"244582","reference":"AQW 49149/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-25","answerBy":"2015-10-12","answered":"2015-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how her Department is encouraging an increase in (i) youth; and (ii) female participation in sport.","answerText":"My Department’s strategy for sport, Sport Matters, contains 26 high level targets, 11 of which are specifically designed to increased participation and sport and physical activity levels across our population, including amongst young people and females. As part of this Strategy an action plan has been published, which provides specific actions for DCAL and Sport NI. The plan also includes actions to be taken forward in partnership with other government departments and a range of public bodies, including district councils.\n\nSince 2009, Sport NI has invested just over £63.3Million in sports participation programmes which young people and females have benefitted from. Specific actions include guidance for schools that recommends a minimum of 2 hours of physical education classes per week, the delivery of Sport NI’s ‘Active Eight’ suite of programmes and the promotion of extra-curricular sports opportunities. Other Sport NI programmes which have a focus on increasing participation opportunities for young people and females include the delivery of Sport NI’s Active Communities Programme in partnership with district councils, the Active Clubs Programme and the Boxing Investment Programme.\n\nFuture plans to encourage participation in sport and physical activity, including amongst youth and females, are currently being developed and will be taken forward with the introduction of a new Sport NI policy – ‘Everybody Active 2020’. It is anticipated that implementation of programmes to support this policy will commence during the 2016/17 financial year.\n\nIn addition, Sport NI intends to invest a total of £17.5Million in sports facilities through its Sports Facility Fund, which was recently launched. A key objective of this investment will be to increase participation, including amongst young people and females.","answerHtml":"My Department’s strategy for sport, Sport Matters, contains 26 high level targets, 11 of which are specifically designed to increased participation and sport and physical activity levels across our population, including amongst young people and females. As part of this Strategy an action plan has been published, which provides specific actions for DCAL and Sport NI. The plan also includes actions to be taken forward in partnership with other government departments and a range of public bodies, including district councils.
Since 2009, Sport NI has invested just over £63.3Million in sports participation programmes which young people and females have benefitted from. Specific actions include guidance for schools that recommends a minimum of 2 hours of physical education classes per week, the delivery of Sport NI’s ‘Active Eight’ suite of programmes and the promotion of extra-curricular sports opportunities. Other Sport NI programmes which have a focus on increasing participation opportunities for young people and females include the delivery of Sport NI’s Active Communities Programme in partnership with district councils, the Active Clubs Programme and the Boxing Investment Programme.
Future plans to encourage participation in sport and physical activity, including amongst youth and females, are currently being developed and will be taken forward with the introduction of a new Sport NI policy – ‘Everybody Active 2020’. It is anticipated that implementation of programmes to support this policy will commence during the 2016/17 financial year.
In addition, Sport NI intends to invest a total of £17.5Million in sports facilities through its Sports Facility Fund, which was recently launched. A key objective of this investment will be to increase participation, including amongst young people and females.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049149%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244582"}},{"id":"244340","reference":"AQW 49092/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-24","answerBy":"2015-10-09","answered":"2015-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the rate of post-qualification employment for students studying and training in the local advanced manufacturing and engineering services sector.","answerText":"The tables on the attached Annex A contain post-qualification employment rate data for the advanced manufacturing and engineering services sector for 2011 to 2014. The latest available destination data is for the 2013/14 academic year. This information is supplied by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), which is the official agency for the collection of information on publicly funded HE institutions in the UK.\n\nThe data shows that the post-qualification employment rate for this sector increased by 5.7% from 2011 to 2014 - this is an encouraging trend.\n\nAnnex A\n\n2011/12\n\nSubject\tEmployed\tEmployed %\nGeneral engineering\t35\t70.2\nSafety engineering\t5\t100\nFire safety engineering\t10\t50\nEngineering design\t5\t38.5\nCivil engineering\t100\t71.7\nStructural engineering\t5\t60\nEnvironmental engineering\t20\t76.9\nMechanical engineering\t60\t80.3\nAerospace engineering\t15\t63\nElectronic & electrical engineering\t25\t88.9\nElectronic engineering\t10\t72.7\nProduction & manufacturing engineering\t20\t75\nManufacturing systems engineering\t0\t-\nChemical, process & energy engineering\t0\t-\nChemical engineering\t10\t52.6\nBiotechnology\t5\t71.4\nEnergy technologies\t15\t81.3\nMusical instrument technology\t10\t61.1\nTotal\t340\t71.1\n\n2012/13\n\nSubject\tEmployed\tEmployed %\nGeneral engineering\t50\t78.8\nSafety engineering\t0\t-\nFire safety engineering\t5\t85.7\nEngineering design\t5\t85.7\nCivil engineering\t80\t73.4\nStructural engineering\t5\t71.4\nEnvironmental engineering\t20\t76\nMechanical engineering\t90\t75.8\nAerospace engineering\t10\t57.1\nAeronautical engineering\t5\t60\nElectronic & electrical engineering\t20\t66.7\nElectronic engineering\t15\t84.2\nTelecommunications engineering\t5\t100\nElectronic & electrical engineering not elsewhere classified\t5\t60\nProduction & manufacturing engineering\t10\t64.3\nChemical, process & energy engineering\t0\t-\nChemical engineering\t20\t54.1\nOthers in engineering\t0\t-\nEngineering not elsewhere classified\t0\t-\nBiotechnology\t5\t42.9\nEnergy technologies\t10\t81.8\nTotal\t340\t71.1\n\n2013/14\n\nSubject\tEmployed\tEmployed %\nGeneral engineering\t50\t77.4\nFire safety engineering\t10\t91.7\nEngineering design\t15\t59.3\nCivil engineering\t110\t81.2\nStructural engineering\t10\t88.9\nEnvironmental engineering\t20\t94.7\nMechanical engineering\t85\t67.5\nAerospace engineering\t5\t43.8\nAeronautical engineering\t0\t-\nElectronic & electrical engineering\t45\t90\nElectronic engineering\t10\t61.1\nElectronic & electrical engineering not elsewhere classified\t10\t88.9\nProduction & manufacturing engineering\t15\t100\nChemical, process & energy engineering\t0\t-\nChemical engineering\t15\t68\nOthers in engineering\t0\t-\nBiotechnology\t0\t-\nEnergy technologies\t5\t100\nTransport logistics\t10\t100\nTotal\t415\t76.8","answerHtml":"The tables on the attached Annex A contain post-qualification employment rate data for the advanced manufacturing and engineering services sector for 2011 to 2014. The latest available destination data is for the 2013/14 academic year. This information is supplied by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), which is the official agency for the collection of information on publicly funded HE institutions in the UK.
The data shows that the post-qualification employment rate for this sector increased by 5.7% from 2011 to 2014 - this is an encouraging trend.
Annex A
2011/12
| Subject | Employed | Employed % |
| General engineering | 35 | 70.2 |
| Safety engineering | 5 | 100 |
| Fire safety engineering | 10 | 50 |
| Engineering design | 5 | 38.5 |
| Civil engineering | 100 | 71.7 |
| Structural engineering | 5 | 60 |
| Environmental engineering | 20 | 76.9 |
| Mechanical engineering | 60 | 80.3 |
| Aerospace engineering | 15 | 63 |
| Electronic & electrical engineering | 25 | 88.9 |
| Electronic engineering | 10 | 72.7 |
| Production & manufacturing engineering | 20 | 75 |
| Manufacturing systems engineering | 0 | - |
| Chemical, process & energy engineering | 0 | - |
| Chemical engineering | 10 | 52.6 |
| Biotechnology | 5 | 71.4 |
| Energy technologies | 15 | 81.3 |
| Musical instrument technology | 10 | 61.1 |
| Total | 340 | 71.1 |
2012/13
| Subject | Employed | Employed % |
| General engineering | 50 | 78.8 |
| Safety engineering | 0 | - |
| Fire safety engineering | 5 | 85.7 |
| Engineering design | 5 | 85.7 |
| Civil engineering | 80 | 73.4 |
| Structural engineering | 5 | 71.4 |
| Environmental engineering | 20 | 76 |
| Mechanical engineering | 90 | 75.8 |
| Aerospace engineering | 10 | 57.1 |
| Aeronautical engineering | 5 | 60 |
| Electronic & electrical engineering | 20 | 66.7 |
| Electronic engineering | 15 | 84.2 |
| Telecommunications engineering | 5 | 100 |
| Electronic & electrical engineering not elsewhere classified | 5 | 60 |
| Production & manufacturing engineering | 10 | 64.3 |
| Chemical, process & energy engineering | 0 | - |
| Chemical engineering | 20 | 54.1 |
| Others in engineering | 0 | - |
| Engineering not elsewhere classified | 0 | - |
| Biotechnology | 5 | 42.9 |
| Energy technologies | 10 | 81.8 |
| Total | 340 | 71.1 |
2013/14
| Subject | Employed | Employed % |
| General engineering | 50 | 77.4 |
| Fire safety engineering | 10 | 91.7 |
| Engineering design | 15 | 59.3 |
| Civil engineering | 110 | 81.2 |
| Structural engineering | 10 | 88.9 |
| Environmental engineering | 20 | 94.7 |
| Mechanical engineering | 85 | 67.5 |
| Aerospace engineering | 5 | 43.8 |
| Aeronautical engineering | 0 | - |
| Electronic & electrical engineering | 45 | 90 |
| Electronic engineering | 10 | 61.1 |
| Electronic & electrical engineering not elsewhere classified | 10 | 88.9 |
| Production & manufacturing engineering | 15 | 100 |
| Chemical, process & energy engineering | 0 | - |
| Chemical engineering | 15 | 68 |
| Others in engineering | 0 | - |
| Biotechnology | 0 | - |
| Energy technologies | 5 | 100 |
| Transport logistics | 10 | 100 |
| Total | 415 | 76.8 |
A copy of an Outline Business Case (OBC) was received from the Northern Regional College on 22 September 2015 and is being assessed by my Department. It sets out the College’s proposals for addressing its accommodation needs in the Coleraine/ Ballymoney and Ballymena areas.
The location and accessibility of both existing and proposed campuses will be taken into account in the OBC when arriving at a preferred solution. Following Departmental approval of the Business Case, approval will be required from the Department of Finance and Personnel before a formal announcement can be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049090%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244338","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244338"}},{"id":"244336","reference":"AQW 49088/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-24","answerBy":"2015-10-09","answered":"2015-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how the productive output of further and higher education courses are evaluated each year; and to what extent courses are evaluated in respect of the changing needs of employment sectors.","answerText":"My Department’s further and higher education sectors play a key role in supporting the Northern Ireland economy. It is therefore vital that all provision delivered is regularly reviewed and evaluated to ensure that it is of the highest quality and is responsive in meeting the needs of employers and learners.\n\nWhile my Department sets the strategic direction for the higher and further education sectors, each university and college, as an independent body, is responsible for its own course provision and any changes made to the curriculum offer.\n\nReviewing and evaluating course provision in universities and colleges is part of the normal annual cycle and is good business practice.\n\nEach year further education colleges present and agree their planned provision for the next academic year with my Department. This process ensures that courses are delivered in line with Departmental priorities and in turn deliver on the Northern Ireland Economic Strategy. When making decisions regarding course provision, the colleges take a number of factors into account including, for example; the growing need for higher level skills, with a particular focus on subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), student demand and indeed value for money. The process also helps in determining the overall amount of funding required. However, as you are well aware funding for colleges and universities this year was significantly reduced and required a number of very difficult decisions to be made regarding provision.\n\nThe Education Training Inspectorate (ETI), which is part of the Department of Education, provides inspection services in the colleges to ensure that all learners receive a high quality learning experience and to highlight best practise as well as identify and address poor provision.\n\nA cycle of whole college inspections has just been completed across the six FE colleges in Northern Ireland for provision up to level 3 including full and part time courses and work based learning. These inspections were carried out by ETI’s teams of inspectors with expertise in the relevant professional and technical areas. Each college received ratings and detailed feedback against the quality indicators described in ‘Improving Quality: Raising Standards’ (IQ:RS). The IQ:RS is also used by providers in an annual cycle of self evaluation that is validated by a short scrutiny inspection, again led by the ETI.\n\nThe IQ:RS focuses on a range of quality indicators covering leadership and management, quality of provision for learning and quality of achievements and standards. A number of the indicators require colleges to demonstrate employer links and partnerships; use of labour market information and regular review of provision to ensure the relevance of programmes and services to local and regional economies, employers and communities.\n\nWhere poor provision is identified this is addressed by monitoring and follow up visits.\n\nThe productive output of courses in your question I am considering to be performance and this is measured across three indicators which are retention, achievement and success. The definitions of these measurements in further education are as follow:\n\nRetention rate is defined as the proportion of the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study to the number of final year enrolments. Since 2012/13, those who complete their course early (and recorded in the data as a withdrawal) and who have subsequently achieved their programme of study qualification have been regarded as a ‘completer’.\n\nAchievement rate relates to the percentage of the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study and achieve their qualification to the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study.\n\nSuccess rate is the overall measure of performance, which is the proportion of the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study and achieve their qualification to the number of final year enrolments.\n\nIn 2013/14, the retention rate in FE Colleges ranged from 86.1% in Northern Regional College to 93.0% in Southern Regional College. The success rate ranged from 72.7% in Belfast Metropolitan College to 82.6% in Southern Regional College.\n\nMy Department’s Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies and the expansion of indigenous businesses by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion.\n\nRegarding the evaluation of courses for the changing needs of employers through the Assured Skills programme, interim evaluations are conducted upon completion of an Academy. The Academy model is part of the Assured Skills programme providing tailored training to help employers find staff with the skills they need or support to develop the necessary expertise within their existing team. In discussions with the relevant further/higher education provider and employers, the lessons learned from the evaluation are used to shape and improve future academies. The flexibility of the Assured Skills programme enables the changing business needs of employers to be addressed, by developing bespoke training through the Academy model, in partnership with DEL and further/higher education.\n\nIn addition to the above, statisticians within my Department have recently developed Northern Ireland’s first survey of FE college leavers. The fieldwork, which surveyed individuals who completed and achieved a regulated qualification course at a further education college in the 2013/14 year, has recently completed and a report of the findings is expected to be released in November 2015.\n\nThe survey examines the economic and non-economic benefits of completing a course within the further education sector and also examines the destinations of students completing and achieving courses.\n\nThe published analysis of Performance Indicators in higher education 2013/14, which monitors and reports on performance, reports that for all full-time first degree entrants to Higher Education Institutions (HEI), 6.5% of students were no longer in higher education in 2013/14 following entry in 2012/13, compared to the UK average of 7.0%.\n\nFull-time leavers from Ulster University (UU), Stranmillis, and St Mary’s were more likely to be in employment six months after leaving than those from Queen’s University (QUB). Additionally QUB and St Mary’s full-time leavers were more likely to undertake full-time study than those from Stranmillis and UU.\n\nThe unemployment rate of full-time leavers was highest at UU (6.6%). St Mary’s (2.5%) and Stranmillis (1.9%) experienced low rates while QUB was slightly higher at 4.3%.\n\nI trust this provides the assurance that colleges and universities alike are evaluating provision to ensure that it meets the needs of learners for employment of today and in the future.","answerHtml":"My Department’s further and higher education sectors play a key role in supporting the Northern Ireland economy. It is therefore vital that all provision delivered is regularly reviewed and evaluated to ensure that it is of the highest quality and is responsive in meeting the needs of employers and learners.
While my Department sets the strategic direction for the higher and further education sectors, each university and college, as an independent body, is responsible for its own course provision and any changes made to the curriculum offer.
Reviewing and evaluating course provision in universities and colleges is part of the normal annual cycle and is good business practice.
Each year further education colleges present and agree their planned provision for the next academic year with my Department. This process ensures that courses are delivered in line with Departmental priorities and in turn deliver on the Northern Ireland Economic Strategy. When making decisions regarding course provision, the colleges take a number of factors into account including, for example; the growing need for higher level skills, with a particular focus on subjects of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), student demand and indeed value for money. The process also helps in determining the overall amount of funding required. However, as you are well aware funding for colleges and universities this year was significantly reduced and required a number of very difficult decisions to be made regarding provision.
The Education Training Inspectorate (ETI), which is part of the Department of Education, provides inspection services in the colleges to ensure that all learners receive a high quality learning experience and to highlight best practise as well as identify and address poor provision.
A cycle of whole college inspections has just been completed across the six FE colleges in Northern Ireland for provision up to level 3 including full and part time courses and work based learning. These inspections were carried out by ETI’s teams of inspectors with expertise in the relevant professional and technical areas. Each college received ratings and detailed feedback against the quality indicators described in ‘Improving Quality: Raising Standards’ (IQ:RS). The IQ:RS is also used by providers in an annual cycle of self evaluation that is validated by a short scrutiny inspection, again led by the ETI.
The IQ:RS focuses on a range of quality indicators covering leadership and management, quality of provision for learning and quality of achievements and standards. A number of the indicators require colleges to demonstrate employer links and partnerships; use of labour market information and regular review of provision to ensure the relevance of programmes and services to local and regional economies, employers and communities.
Where poor provision is identified this is addressed by monitoring and follow up visits.
The productive output of courses in your question I am considering to be performance and this is measured across three indicators which are retention, achievement and success. The definitions of these measurements in further education are as follow:
Retention rate is defined as the proportion of the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study to the number of final year enrolments. Since 2012/13, those who complete their course early (and recorded in the data as a withdrawal) and who have subsequently achieved their programme of study qualification have been regarded as a ‘completer’.
Achievement rate relates to the percentage of the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study and achieve their qualification to the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study.
Success rate is the overall measure of performance, which is the proportion of the number of enrolments who complete their final year of study and achieve their qualification to the number of final year enrolments.
In 2013/14, the retention rate in FE Colleges ranged from 86.1% in Northern Regional College to 93.0% in Southern Regional College. The success rate ranged from 72.7% in Belfast Metropolitan College to 82.6% in Southern Regional College.
My Department’s Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies and the expansion of indigenous businesses by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion.
Regarding the evaluation of courses for the changing needs of employers through the Assured Skills programme, interim evaluations are conducted upon completion of an Academy. The Academy model is part of the Assured Skills programme providing tailored training to help employers find staff with the skills they need or support to develop the necessary expertise within their existing team. In discussions with the relevant further/higher education provider and employers, the lessons learned from the evaluation are used to shape and improve future academies. The flexibility of the Assured Skills programme enables the changing business needs of employers to be addressed, by developing bespoke training through the Academy model, in partnership with DEL and further/higher education.
In addition to the above, statisticians within my Department have recently developed Northern Ireland’s first survey of FE college leavers. The fieldwork, which surveyed individuals who completed and achieved a regulated qualification course at a further education college in the 2013/14 year, has recently completed and a report of the findings is expected to be released in November 2015.
The survey examines the economic and non-economic benefits of completing a course within the further education sector and also examines the destinations of students completing and achieving courses.
The published analysis of Performance Indicators in higher education 2013/14, which monitors and reports on performance, reports that for all full-time first degree entrants to Higher Education Institutions (HEI), 6.5% of students were no longer in higher education in 2013/14 following entry in 2012/13, compared to the UK average of 7.0%.
Full-time leavers from Ulster University (UU), Stranmillis, and St Mary’s were more likely to be in employment six months after leaving than those from Queen’s University (QUB). Additionally QUB and St Mary’s full-time leavers were more likely to undertake full-time study than those from Stranmillis and UU.
The unemployment rate of full-time leavers was highest at UU (6.6%). St Mary’s (2.5%) and Stranmillis (1.9%) experienced low rates while QUB was slightly higher at 4.3%.
I trust this provides the assurance that colleges and universities alike are evaluating provision to ensure that it meets the needs of learners for employment of today and in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049088%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244336","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244336"}},{"id":"244335","reference":"AQW 49087/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-24","answerBy":"2015-10-09","answered":"2015-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether further education students who are currently in receipt of an Education Maintenance Allowance will continue to receive this; and for his assessment of the Education Maintenance Allowance as an incentive for young people to remain in full time education.","answerText":"There are no current plans to remove the Education Maintenance Allowance from eligible Northern Ireland students studying at Further Education Colleges or Schools.\n\nFollowing a public consultation and review of the Education Maintenance Allowance in 2012, carried out by my Department and our joint partner the Department of Education, it was agreed to better target resources to those\n\nstudents in most need. From academic year 2013/14 eligible students have received £30 per week if their household income is £20,500 or less where there is one dependent child, or £22,500 or less where there are two or more dependent children. Two £100 bonus payments are also payable each year on achievement of the student’s learning objectives.\n\nThe review showed, and both Departments accept, that the Educational Maintenance Allowance does offer a positive incentive to young people from lower income families to stay in full time education.","answerHtml":"There are no current plans to remove the Education Maintenance Allowance from eligible Northern Ireland students studying at Further Education Colleges or Schools.
Following a public consultation and review of the Education Maintenance Allowance in 2012, carried out by my Department and our joint partner the Department of Education, it was agreed to better target resources to those
students in most need. From academic year 2013/14 eligible students have received £30 per week if their household income is £20,500 or less where there is one dependent child, or £22,500 or less where there are two or more dependent children. Two £100 bonus payments are also payable each year on achievement of the student’s learning objectives.
The review showed, and both Departments accept, that the Educational Maintenance Allowance does offer a positive incentive to young people from lower income families to stay in full time education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049087%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244335"}},{"id":"244334","reference":"AQW 49086/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-24","answerBy":"2015-10-09","answered":"2015-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of groups, whose client groups included those with ill mental health, learning and physical disabilities, lone parents and disadvantaged young people, that applied to the latest European Social Fund and were unsuccessful.","answerText":"The total number of organisations that applied to the ESF 2014-2020 Programme, but were unsuccessful, was 69. These organisations can be broken down according to the following strands of the ESF 2014-2020 Programme to which they applied:\n\nCommunity and Family Support:4\n\nDisability:9\n\nUnemployed and Economically Inactive:27\n\nNot in Employment, Education or Training:29\n\nMany of these organisations have multiple client groups. Of these 69 organisations, the Department has been able to ascertain that 23 have a client group with mental health issues; 36 have a client group with learning/physical disabilities; 24 have a client group of lone parents; and 46 have a client group of disadvantaged young people.","answerHtml":"The total number of organisations that applied to the ESF 2014-2020 Programme, but were unsuccessful, was 69. These organisations can be broken down according to the following strands of the ESF 2014-2020 Programme to which they applied:
Community and Family Support:4
Disability:9
Unemployed and Economically Inactive:27
Not in Employment, Education or Training:29
Many of these organisations have multiple client groups. Of these 69 organisations, the Department has been able to ascertain that 23 have a client group with mental health issues; 36 have a client group with learning/physical disabilities; 24 have a client group of lone parents; and 46 have a client group of disadvantaged young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049086%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244334","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244334"}},{"id":"244382","reference":"AQO 8772/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-24","answerBy":"2015-10-05","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when a Programme for Government 2015/16, to assist in directing policy for the remainder of this Assembly mandate, will be published.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208772%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244382","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244382"}},{"id":"244215","reference":"AQW 49051/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-23","answerBy":"2015-10-08","answered":"2015-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of university students leaving Northern Ireland to study elsewhere in the United Kingdom, in each of the last 5 years; and how budgetary pressures within the higher education sector are likely to impact upon this.","answerText":"The table below shows the number of Northern Ireland domiciled first year students enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate courses at Higher Education Institutions in Great Britain.\n\nYear\tNumber of NI students in GB HEIs\n2009/10\t6,370\n2010/11\t6,690\n2011/12\t7,185\n2012/13\t5,585\n2013/14\t5,980\n\nAs a result of the 2015-16 Budget, this academic year, our universities and university colleges will be taking cuts of over £16 million, and our further education colleges about £12 million, with an obvious impact on their higher education provision. As a consequence, we are witnessing a very real impact in terms of student places and staff posts. Queen’s and Ulster University, our two largest universities, are taking over 500 less local students this year, rising to nearly 2,000 over the next few years.\n\nMore students will now likely go to study in Great Britain. Northern Ireland is already the only net exporter of students in the UK, with almost a third of our young people choosing to go to England, Scotland or Wales every year and far fewer coming the other way.\n\nWhen these students leave they take with them a whole host of socio-economic benefits, and the figures show that about two thirds of them do not return to Northern Ireland for employment.\n\nMore regrettably than that, others who do not gain a higher education place here may simply decide not to enter higher education at all, and the evidence suggests that people from disadvantaged backgrounds will be affected most of all.","answerHtml":"The table below shows the number of Northern Ireland domiciled first year students enrolled in undergraduate and postgraduate courses at Higher Education Institutions in Great Britain.
| Year | Number of NI students in GB HEIs |
| 2009/10 | 6,370 |
| 2010/11 | 6,690 |
| 2011/12 | 7,185 |
| 2012/13 | 5,585 |
| 2013/14 | 5,980 |
As a result of the 2015-16 Budget, this academic year, our universities and university colleges will be taking cuts of over £16 million, and our further education colleges about £12 million, with an obvious impact on their higher education provision. As a consequence, we are witnessing a very real impact in terms of student places and staff posts. Queen’s and Ulster University, our two largest universities, are taking over 500 less local students this year, rising to nearly 2,000 over the next few years.
More students will now likely go to study in Great Britain. Northern Ireland is already the only net exporter of students in the UK, with almost a third of our young people choosing to go to England, Scotland or Wales every year and far fewer coming the other way.
When these students leave they take with them a whole host of socio-economic benefits, and the figures show that about two thirds of them do not return to Northern Ireland for employment.
More regrettably than that, others who do not gain a higher education place here may simply decide not to enter higher education at all, and the evidence suggests that people from disadvantaged backgrounds will be affected most of all.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049051%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244215"}},{"id":"244213","reference":"AQW 49049/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-23","answerBy":"2015-10-08","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department is working with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to assess the skills need of companies based outside of Belfast and Londonderry.","answerText":"Meeting the skills needs of employers remains crucial to ensuring a strong and vibrant economy in Northern Ireland.\n\nMy Department works closely with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) and its related non-Departmental public bodies to ensure that programmes offered are complementary and provide a service to employers across Northern Ireland that meets their skills needs, helping them to increase their productivity and competitiveness.This is clearly demonstrated by the close working relationship my Department has with Invest Northern Ireland, across a range of common interests. Examples of this are shared work on research, management and leadership needs and also the Assured Skills programme which works in collaboration with indigenous and foreign direct investment companies throughout Northern Ireland to deliver the skills they need. DETI is also represented on the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services, Food and Drink Industry and Information and Communications Technology Working Groups which I chair. These groups include employers, further and higher education representatives, officials and others with relevant interests. They provide a valuable forum through which employers from across Northern Ireland can articulate their skills needs and interact directly with service and programme providers.\n\nIn addition, my Department is directly engaged with DETI on a wide range of policy and strategic matters with a Northern Ireland-wide focus, including the Executive’s Economic Strategy, the Innovation Strategy and the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Strategy. My Department also works closely with DETI on the gathering and interpretation of key statistical data, for example, on labour market information. Both Departments are also heavily engaged in preparations for the creation of the Department of the Economy.\n\nA range of both formal and informal meetings is in place to ensure proper co-ordination of activity between both Departments. These range from strategic liaison meetings between senior officials to regular operational oversight meetings on particular issues through to day-to-day liaison between individual branches.","answerHtml":"Meeting the skills needs of employers remains crucial to ensuring a strong and vibrant economy in Northern Ireland.
My Department works closely with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (DETI) and its related non-Departmental public bodies to ensure that programmes offered are complementary and provide a service to employers across Northern Ireland that meets their skills needs, helping them to increase their productivity and competitiveness.This is clearly demonstrated by the close working relationship my Department has with Invest Northern Ireland, across a range of common interests. Examples of this are shared work on research, management and leadership needs and also the Assured Skills programme which works in collaboration with indigenous and foreign direct investment companies throughout Northern Ireland to deliver the skills they need. DETI is also represented on the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services, Food and Drink Industry and Information and Communications Technology Working Groups which I chair. These groups include employers, further and higher education representatives, officials and others with relevant interests. They provide a valuable forum through which employers from across Northern Ireland can articulate their skills needs and interact directly with service and programme providers.
In addition, my Department is directly engaged with DETI on a wide range of policy and strategic matters with a Northern Ireland-wide focus, including the Executive’s Economic Strategy, the Innovation Strategy and the Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) Strategy. My Department also works closely with DETI on the gathering and interpretation of key statistical data, for example, on labour market information. Both Departments are also heavily engaged in preparations for the creation of the Department of the Economy.
A range of both formal and informal meetings is in place to ensure proper co-ordination of activity between both Departments. These range from strategic liaison meetings between senior officials to regular operational oversight meetings on particular issues through to day-to-day liaison between individual branches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049049%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244213","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244213"}},{"id":"244201","reference":"AQW 49045/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-23","answerBy":"2015-10-08","answered":"2015-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what the average age of a farmer is in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry.","answerText":"Analysis of data from the European Union Farm Structure Survey 2013 indicates that the average age of farmers in the north of Ireland is 58 years. The way in which the survey is conducted means that an average age for farmers in individual constituencies cannot be accurately calculated.","answerHtml":"Analysis of data from the European Union Farm Structure Survey 2013 indicates that the average age of farmers in the north of Ireland is 58 years. The way in which the survey is conducted means that an average age for farmers in individual constituencies cannot be accurately calculated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049045%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244201"}},{"id":"244199","reference":"AQW 49044/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-23","answerBy":"2015-10-08","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the ways in which her Department is encouraging stakeholders in the agricultural sector to consider long term approaches to mitigate against market volatility.","answerText":"My Department’s advisers have, over time, encouraged farmers to consider matters that would help to mitigate the risks that can be inherent in the farming industry. These include an efficient production system linked to farm resources; business and financial management through benchmarking; prudent expenditure; a cash flow plan covering the whole year; and hedging contracts.\n\nI know that hedging contracts and insurance cover are used by the farming industry in other countries, but at this stage there does not seem to be an appetite to go down this road by our industry. This matter is however still on the table for discussion. Hedging contracts were among the issues identified by the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s Dairy Sub-group for consideration in the medium term. While hedging contracts do not lead to an overall increase in the price received by those farmers for their produce, they do provide a means for farmers to even out cash flows and mitigate against volatility in the market.\n\nAs contracts are a commercial matter you will appreciate that my Department cannot engage directly in discussions between individual purchasers and producers on taking this matter forward. This is something that only the various industry interests can do. Nevertheless, I do believe that it is something that individual producers may wish to explore further and I have openly encouraged farmers to talk to their milk buyers about this.\n\nIn addition, following my engagement with the previous Finance Minister, Simon Hamilton and with the industry, I was pleased that the British government decided to extend the period for which self-employed farmers can average their profits from two years to five years. This is a very welcome move that will, from April 2016, play a part in mitigating the impacts of price volatility.\n\nLooking ahead, we need to critically examine how we can best ensure that our agri-food industry is sustainable and profitable in the future and the actions that can be taken going forward by government and industry to support this. At a strategic level I have tasked the Agri-Food Strategy Board to establish a Supply Chain Forum, covering all sectors, focussed on supporting the industry in developing a sustainable future, through enhanced collaboration and effective communication. I will be a strong advocate of this work and fully intend to be closely involved.\n\nOn a wider stage the European Commission recently announced plans to establish a new High Level Forum for a Better Functioning Food Supply Chain at EU level to assist the Commission with the development of industrial policy in the food sector. Amongst other issues, the Forum will examine hedging instruments, such as new futures markets for agricultural products. I would encourage local representatives to plug into the work of the Forum so that the industry in the north of Ireland can benefit from any lessons learned or new initiatives that it identifies.","answerHtml":"My Department’s advisers have, over time, encouraged farmers to consider matters that would help to mitigate the risks that can be inherent in the farming industry. These include an efficient production system linked to farm resources; business and financial management through benchmarking; prudent expenditure; a cash flow plan covering the whole year; and hedging contracts.
I know that hedging contracts and insurance cover are used by the farming industry in other countries, but at this stage there does not seem to be an appetite to go down this road by our industry. This matter is however still on the table for discussion. Hedging contracts were among the issues identified by the Agri-Food Strategy Board’s Dairy Sub-group for consideration in the medium term. While hedging contracts do not lead to an overall increase in the price received by those farmers for their produce, they do provide a means for farmers to even out cash flows and mitigate against volatility in the market.
As contracts are a commercial matter you will appreciate that my Department cannot engage directly in discussions between individual purchasers and producers on taking this matter forward. This is something that only the various industry interests can do. Nevertheless, I do believe that it is something that individual producers may wish to explore further and I have openly encouraged farmers to talk to their milk buyers about this.
In addition, following my engagement with the previous Finance Minister, Simon Hamilton and with the industry, I was pleased that the British government decided to extend the period for which self-employed farmers can average their profits from two years to five years. This is a very welcome move that will, from April 2016, play a part in mitigating the impacts of price volatility.
Looking ahead, we need to critically examine how we can best ensure that our agri-food industry is sustainable and profitable in the future and the actions that can be taken going forward by government and industry to support this. At a strategic level I have tasked the Agri-Food Strategy Board to establish a Supply Chain Forum, covering all sectors, focussed on supporting the industry in developing a sustainable future, through enhanced collaboration and effective communication. I will be a strong advocate of this work and fully intend to be closely involved.
On a wider stage the European Commission recently announced plans to establish a new High Level Forum for a Better Functioning Food Supply Chain at EU level to assist the Commission with the development of industrial policy in the food sector. Amongst other issues, the Forum will examine hedging instruments, such as new futures markets for agricultural products. I would encourage local representatives to plug into the work of the Forum so that the industry in the north of Ireland can benefit from any lessons learned or new initiatives that it identifies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049044%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244199"}},{"id":"244197","reference":"AQW 49043/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-23","answerBy":"2015-10-08","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (i) for her assessment of the effectiveness of the Contacting Elderly Rural Isolated pilot scheme in enhancing independent living and addressing social isolation for older people; (ii) whether it is on course to meet its targets; and (iii) whether funding will be made available for this scheme post 2016.","answerText":"The Connecting Elderly Rural Isolated (CERI) scheme continues to be an effective mechanism to alleviate social isolation among vulnerable elderly people. CERI remains on course to meet its target of 102,000 contacts by March 2016. The decision on funding a future Scheme using the CERI model will be informed following an evaluation of the current arrangements. This evaluation will be undertaken during 2016 and led by the Western Health and Social Care Trust.","answerHtml":"The Connecting Elderly Rural Isolated (CERI) scheme continues to be an effective mechanism to alleviate social isolation among vulnerable elderly people. CERI remains on course to meet its target of 102,000 contacts by March 2016. The decision on funding a future Scheme using the CERI model will be informed following an evaluation of the current arrangements. This evaluation will be undertaken during 2016 and led by the Western Health and Social Care Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049043%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244197"}},{"id":"244071","reference":"AQW 49000/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-22","answerBy":"2015-10-07","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on the progress of Local Action Groups, including the timescale for developing their Local Rural Development Strategies, and the distribution of funding.","answerText":"All ten Local Action groups have now received their Interim Local Rural Development Strategy templates. My Department has set a return date of 31st December 2015, however officials will work at the pace of the fastest and any of the ten LAG’s submitting a strategy before this date that meets the required standard will be eligible to receive a contract to deliver LEADER on behalf of the Department. This will cut some 18 months off the set up time compared to the previous programme.\n\nThe request for funding by an applicant is a 2 stage process. Firstly applicants must attend a funding workshop where they will be given advice on eligibility and pre application documentation that they need to have before applying for funding, such as a business plan. Once workshops are complete in a LAG area the LAG will advertise that it is open to receive online applications.\n\nThis two stage process should increase the number of successful applications and reduce the amount of time wasted processing unrealistic ones. Our aim is to process all applications to a funding decision within 90 days of receipt.","answerHtml":"All ten Local Action groups have now received their Interim Local Rural Development Strategy templates. My Department has set a return date of 31st December 2015, however officials will work at the pace of the fastest and any of the ten LAG’s submitting a strategy before this date that meets the required standard will be eligible to receive a contract to deliver LEADER on behalf of the Department. This will cut some 18 months off the set up time compared to the previous programme.
The request for funding by an applicant is a 2 stage process. Firstly applicants must attend a funding workshop where they will be given advice on eligibility and pre application documentation that they need to have before applying for funding, such as a business plan. Once workshops are complete in a LAG area the LAG will advertise that it is open to receive online applications.
This two stage process should increase the number of successful applications and reduce the amount of time wasted processing unrealistic ones. Our aim is to process all applications to a funding decision within 90 days of receipt.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2049000%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244071"}},{"id":"244070","reference":"AQW 48999/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-22","answerBy":"2015-10-07","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department communicates with the farming community, other than via the internet.","answerText":"My Department uses a wide range of offline communication channels to interact with customers and these can be tailored depending upon the message being delivered and the target audience.\n\nMethods of communication include face-to-face (public meetings; meetings with representative organisations; meetings with elected representatives; etc), in writing (letters; mail shots, leaflets; etc) and via the media (workshops; press releases; information events; etc).\n\nBoth officials and I also participate in media interviews to raise awareness of issues directly affecting the industry and wider rural community.","answerHtml":"My Department uses a wide range of offline communication channels to interact with customers and these can be tailored depending upon the message being delivered and the target audience.
Methods of communication include face-to-face (public meetings; meetings with representative organisations; meetings with elected representatives; etc), in writing (letters; mail shots, leaflets; etc) and via the media (workshops; press releases; information events; etc).
Both officials and I also participate in media interviews to raise awareness of issues directly affecting the industry and wider rural community.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048999%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244070"}},{"id":"244066","reference":"AQW 48997/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-22","answerBy":"2015-10-07","answered":"2015-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail all current and future academies being delivered under his Department’s Assured Skills Programme.","answerText":"The table below lists the live and planned Academies under the Department’s Assured Skills programme:\n\nName of Assured Skills Academy\tStart date of Academy\tLength of Academy\nEY\t17 August 2015\t9 weeks\nFinTrU\t1 September 2015\t6 weeks\nDeloitte\t5 October 2015\t6 weeks\nWhitehat\t12 October 2015\t5 weeks\nEishtec\tOctober 2015\tweeks\nEY\tDecember 2015/January 2016\tto be confirmed\n\nChange Fund\n\nFrom 1 April 2015 my Department received an additional £2m in funding through the ‘Change Fund’ for Assured Skills. The overall objective of this funding is to improve the effectiveness of government support and to identify and address those sectors and sub sectors where the availability of skills is impeding the growth of the sector.\n\nThe table below lists the live and planned Academies funded from the Change Fund:\n\nName of Change Fund Academy\tStart date\tLength of Academy\n2D Animation Academy\t3 August 2015\t16 weeks\nFinancial Services Academy\t7 September 2015\t8 weeks\nExport Sales & Marketing Academy\t7 September 2015\t8 weeks\nWelding Academy\t7 September 2015\t8 weeks\nData Scientists Academy\tTo be confirmed\t16 weeks\nGaming Academy\t2 November 2015\t12 weeks","answerHtml":"The table below lists the live and planned Academies under the Department’s Assured Skills programme:
| Name of Assured Skills Academy | Start date of Academy | Length of Academy |
| EY | 17 August 2015 | 9 weeks |
| FinTrU | 1 September 2015 | 6 weeks |
| Deloitte | 5 October 2015 | 6 weeks |
| Whitehat | 12 October 2015 | 5 weeks |
| Eishtec | October 2015 | weeks |
| EY | December 2015/January 2016 | to be confirmed |
Change Fund
From 1 April 2015 my Department received an additional £2m in funding through the ‘Change Fund’ for Assured Skills. The overall objective of this funding is to improve the effectiveness of government support and to identify and address those sectors and sub sectors where the availability of skills is impeding the growth of the sector.
The table below lists the live and planned Academies funded from the Change Fund:
| Name of Change Fund Academy | Start date | Length of Academy |
| 2D Animation Academy | 3 August 2015 | 16 weeks |
| Financial Services Academy | 7 September 2015 | 8 weeks |
| Export Sales & Marketing Academy | 7 September 2015 | 8 weeks |
| Welding Academy | 7 September 2015 | 8 weeks |
| Data Scientists Academy | To be confirmed | 16 weeks |
| Gaming Academy | 2 November 2015 | 12 weeks |
To date there have been no discussions between my Assured Skills Branch with either the Vice Chancellor or senior management of Ulster University, with a view to introducing a modern language academy.
However, my Department is willing to give consideration to any proposals that Ulster University may submit. Any proposals received will be given consideration under the Assured Skills ‘Change Fund’ programme.
If the proposal meets the necessary criteria, the academy could be pursued by the relevant further education college/s, who currently offer a range of modern language courses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048996%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244065","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244065"}},{"id":"244064","reference":"AQW 48995/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-22","answerBy":"2015-10-07","answered":"2015-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail any feedback he has received from businesses, including international businesses, concerning a deficit in modern language skills following the announcement to close the School of Modern Languages at Ulster University.","answerText":"My Department has not had any communication or received any feedback from major businesses, including international businesses, regarding a potential deficit in modern language skills due to the closure of the School of Modern Languages at Ulster University.","answerHtml":"My Department has not had any communication or received any feedback from major businesses, including international businesses, regarding a potential deficit in modern language skills due to the closure of the School of Modern Languages at Ulster University.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048995%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244064","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244064"}},{"id":"244042","reference":"AQW 48987/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-21","answerBy":"2015-10-06","answered":"2015-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme, including the number of people who have access to this service, and the impact which budgetary pressures within her Department and the Department for Regional Development will have on the scheme.","answerText":"The Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) has been funded under the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme. Through ARTS, rural dwellers, across the north, who are members of their local Rural Community Transport Partnership (RCTP) and who hold a valid SmartPass can travel free or half fare on the Dial-a-Lift services provided by the RCT P’s. There are currently 8,301 rural dwellers that can avail of this service.\n\nFunding for ARTS in conjunction with the Department of Regional Development is in place until March 2016. Assessments of both individual project evaluations and the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework evaluation are currently taking place and a decision regarding funding of various initiatives, post March 2016, will be made in late Autumn.","answerHtml":"The Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) has been funded under the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme. Through ARTS, rural dwellers, across the north, who are members of their local Rural Community Transport Partnership (RCTP) and who hold a valid SmartPass can travel free or half fare on the Dial-a-Lift services provided by the RCT P’s. There are currently 8,301 rural dwellers that can avail of this service.
Funding for ARTS in conjunction with the Department of Regional Development is in place until March 2016. Assessments of both individual project evaluations and the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Framework evaluation are currently taking place and a decision regarding funding of various initiatives, post March 2016, will be made in late Autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048987%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244042","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244042"}},{"id":"244039","reference":"AQW 48986/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-21","answerBy":"2015-10-06","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether she intends to announce a rural childcare programme, as part of the Rural Development Programme.","answerText":"You will be aware that OFMDFM is leading on the Executive’s draft Childcare Strategy which is currently out for public consultation. I am fully supportive of the draft strategy. I welcome the proposal in the draft Strategy to look at the rationale of progressing either a centre-based childminding hub or a childminding network approach to support the needs of rural families and to consider developing a pilot in rural areas. I also welcome the fact that rural childcare needs are being main streamed across the full range of proposed actions contained in the Strategy. I encourage you to respond to the consultation which closes on 13th November.\n\nUnder the new Rural Development Programme which was recently approved by the EU Commission there may be opportunities within the Leader Programme to provide support to rural childcare projects under the rural Business Investment Scheme. Support may also be available for access to basic services or improvements in social infrastructure to improve the welfare and access to basic services where there is a clear gap in the provision of the service to those living in rural areas.\n\nThe schemes to be administered under the Leader Programme will reflect locally identified needs and priorities and will be delivered by 10 Local Action Groups, who will be holding pre-funding workshops to inform potential applicants of scheme requirements, in advance of opening calls for applications.","answerHtml":"You will be aware that OFMDFM is leading on the Executive’s draft Childcare Strategy which is currently out for public consultation. I am fully supportive of the draft strategy. I welcome the proposal in the draft Strategy to look at the rationale of progressing either a centre-based childminding hub or a childminding network approach to support the needs of rural families and to consider developing a pilot in rural areas. I also welcome the fact that rural childcare needs are being main streamed across the full range of proposed actions contained in the Strategy. I encourage you to respond to the consultation which closes on 13th November.
Under the new Rural Development Programme which was recently approved by the EU Commission there may be opportunities within the Leader Programme to provide support to rural childcare projects under the rural Business Investment Scheme. Support may also be available for access to basic services or improvements in social infrastructure to improve the welfare and access to basic services where there is a clear gap in the provision of the service to those living in rural areas.
The schemes to be administered under the Leader Programme will reflect locally identified needs and priorities and will be delivered by 10 Local Action Groups, who will be holding pre-funding workshops to inform potential applicants of scheme requirements, in advance of opening calls for applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048986%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244039","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244039"}},{"id":"244037","reference":"AQW 48985/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-21","answerBy":"2015-10-06","answered":"2015-09-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how much of the original funding of £4,800,000 for rural community development has been spent; and for a breakdown of this expenditure.","answerText":"The rural community development support service was subject to a competitive tender procedure with eight contracts for the period 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2015 awarded. These contracts have been extended for one additional year until 31 March 2016. The expenditure to date under this service is detailed in the table below:\n\n1/4/2012 - 31/3/2013\t£1,159,113\n1/4/2013 - 31/3/2014\t£1,199,113\n1/4/2014 - 31/3 2105\t£1,159,113\n1/4/2015 – 30/8/2015\t£427,133\nTotal\t£3,944,472","answerHtml":"The rural community development support service was subject to a competitive tender procedure with eight contracts for the period 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2015 awarded. These contracts have been extended for one additional year until 31 March 2016. The expenditure to date under this service is detailed in the table below:
| 1/4/2012 - 31/3/2013 | £1,159,113 |
| 1/4/2013 - 31/3/2014 | £1,199,113 |
| 1/4/2014 - 31/3 2105 | £1,159,113 |
| 1/4/2015 – 30/8/2015 | £427,133 |
| Total | £3,944,472 |
Contracts have been awarded to a total of seven service providers for the provision of a local rural community development support and advice service for all of the rural wards in the 11 new Local Council Districts. The contracts for this service have been extended until 31 March 2016 and an evaluation of the programme up to 31 March 2015 has shown that is meeting the objective of assisting rural communities in identifying and addressing issues of poverty and isolation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048984%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244036","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244036"}},{"id":"244034","reference":"AQW 48983/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-21","answerBy":"2015-10-06","answered":"2015-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what assistance on online forms her Department offers to farmers who do not have access to, or are unfamiliar with, the internet.","answerText":"My Department has a range of support measures in place to help farmers who either don’t have access to or are unfamiliar with the internet.\n\nEach DARD Direct office has a computer terminal in the reception area with free internet access which farmers can use. DARD Direct staff will provide help and guidance to first time users who wish to use this facility. Free access to the internet is also available through Libraries NI along with free computer classes through the 'GO ON' NI.\n\nIdeally every rural dweller would have access to broadband, but I acknowledge this is not yet the case. The situation has greatly improved following major investment by my Department of £5m. This investment has provided potential access to 14,000 rural dwellers, and follows a previous investment of £2.5m which lead to 17,000 rural dwellers getting connected.\n\nCAFRE offer tailored training packages for farmers on how to sign up and use DARD online services. They also offer a telephone helpline for those requiring assistance in understanding the process for completing the online application.\n\nI have asked officials to consider how we can provide further support to those famers having difficulty, or maybe just need a little encouragement, so that they can also enjoy the significant benefits that going online provides. This includes providing out of hours telephone support at critical times and offering tools such as web chat.\n\nMy Department is focused on developing online forms and services that are as simple as possible so that customers who can use them prefer to do so.","answerHtml":"My Department has a range of support measures in place to help farmers who either don’t have access to or are unfamiliar with the internet.
Each DARD Direct office has a computer terminal in the reception area with free internet access which farmers can use. DARD Direct staff will provide help and guidance to first time users who wish to use this facility. Free access to the internet is also available through Libraries NI along with free computer classes through the 'GO ON' NI.
Ideally every rural dweller would have access to broadband, but I acknowledge this is not yet the case. The situation has greatly improved following major investment by my Department of £5m. This investment has provided potential access to 14,000 rural dwellers, and follows a previous investment of £2.5m which lead to 17,000 rural dwellers getting connected.
CAFRE offer tailored training packages for farmers on how to sign up and use DARD online services. They also offer a telephone helpline for those requiring assistance in understanding the process for completing the online application.
I have asked officials to consider how we can provide further support to those famers having difficulty, or maybe just need a little encouragement, so that they can also enjoy the significant benefits that going online provides. This includes providing out of hours telephone support at critical times and offering tools such as web chat.
My Department is focused on developing online forms and services that are as simple as possible so that customers who can use them prefer to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048983%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=244034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=244034"}},{"id":"243950","reference":"AQW 48938/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-18","answerBy":"2015-10-05","answered":"2015-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what discussions she has had with the Department of Environment and Rural Affairs on Northern Ireland’s allocation of the UK’s package of measures from the European Commission to help alleviate the crisis in dairy farming.","answerText":"Details of my meetings with DEFRA in relation to the dairy crisis may be found in my responses to AQW 48840/11-16, AQW 48841/11-16 and AQW 48842/11-16.\n\nFollowing the EU Commission’s decision to allocate an aid package worth £26 million to this Member State, on 24 September I had a further discussion with the DEFRA Minister, George Eustice where he confirmed that the north’s share of this EU funding would be £5.1m. This is around one fifth of the funding allocated to our Member State.\n\nThe decision to allocate nearly 20% of the Member State’s aid package to the north comes after I highlighted the unique and difficult circumstances facing the industry here, with both Commissioner Hogan and Ms Truss. As a result, I have secured a better deal for our farmers than would otherwise have been the case.","answerHtml":"Details of my meetings with DEFRA in relation to the dairy crisis may be found in my responses to AQW 48840/11-16, AQW 48841/11-16 and AQW 48842/11-16.
Following the EU Commission’s decision to allocate an aid package worth £26 million to this Member State, on 24 September I had a further discussion with the DEFRA Minister, George Eustice where he confirmed that the north’s share of this EU funding would be £5.1m. This is around one fifth of the funding allocated to our Member State.
The decision to allocate nearly 20% of the Member State’s aid package to the north comes after I highlighted the unique and difficult circumstances facing the industry here, with both Commissioner Hogan and Ms Truss. As a result, I have secured a better deal for our farmers than would otherwise have been the case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048938%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243950"}},{"id":"243949","reference":"AQW 48937/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-18","answerBy":"2015-10-05","answered":"2015-10-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for a projected time frame for the implementation of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme.","answerText":"The Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS) will be an important part of our new Rural Development Programme 2014 to 2020 (RDP) and it will consist of a package of measures aimed at knowledge transfer, innovation, cooperation and capital investment to help support sustainable growth in the sector.\n\nMy officials are continuing to develop these schemes and are working hard toward obtaining the necessary business case approvals.\n\nWe are planning to roll out the FBIS package in a phased way. The early focus will be on making advice and support available to farmers through the knowledge transfer measures, to help them clearly identify their needs and make informed decisions about their business.\n\nTo that end, I can confirm that the first phase of the FBIS will open for applications in October. This first phase of the FBIS will establish Business Development Groups for farmers.\n\nThese groups are extremely important, as they are designed to help farmers come together with their peers, to learn about and enhance their knowledge of business management, new technologies and innovative ways of working. This new programme will assist farmers to acquire the tools to help them make the right decisions about their businesses now, and particularly before they decide to take on additional financial commitments.\n\nIn this initial phase of FBIS we are also planning to deliver Farm Family Key Skills training schemes, including farm safety and business planning.\n\nThese knowledge transfer measures will help farmers to think carefully about their business plans and will help prepare the way for the proposed Business Investment Scheme capital programme that is planned for next year.","answerHtml":"The Farm Business Improvement Scheme (FBIS) will be an important part of our new Rural Development Programme 2014 to 2020 (RDP) and it will consist of a package of measures aimed at knowledge transfer, innovation, cooperation and capital investment to help support sustainable growth in the sector.
My officials are continuing to develop these schemes and are working hard toward obtaining the necessary business case approvals.
We are planning to roll out the FBIS package in a phased way. The early focus will be on making advice and support available to farmers through the knowledge transfer measures, to help them clearly identify their needs and make informed decisions about their business.
To that end, I can confirm that the first phase of the FBIS will open for applications in October. This first phase of the FBIS will establish Business Development Groups for farmers.
These groups are extremely important, as they are designed to help farmers come together with their peers, to learn about and enhance their knowledge of business management, new technologies and innovative ways of working. This new programme will assist farmers to acquire the tools to help them make the right decisions about their businesses now, and particularly before they decide to take on additional financial commitments.
In this initial phase of FBIS we are also planning to deliver Farm Family Key Skills training schemes, including farm safety and business planning.
These knowledge transfer measures will help farmers to think carefully about their business plans and will help prepare the way for the proposed Business Investment Scheme capital programme that is planned for next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048937%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243949","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243949"}},{"id":"243947","reference":"AQW 48935/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-18","answerBy":"2015-10-05","answered":"2015-12-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the development of an action plan for the Gender Equality Strategy.","answerText":"A first draft of the new Strategy, in the form of a discussion document, has been considered by the Gender Advisory Panel, and at its next meeting the Panel will further consider the document.\n\nThe current Strategy will remain in place until the new Strategy is finalised. It will require full public consultation, consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive approval.","answerHtml":"A first draft of the new Strategy, in the form of a discussion document, has been considered by the Gender Advisory Panel, and at its next meeting the Panel will further consider the document.
The current Strategy will remain in place until the new Strategy is finalised. It will require full public consultation, consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive approval.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048935%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243947"}},{"id":"243944","reference":"AQW 48932/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-18","answerBy":"2015-10-05","answered":"2015-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when a Programme for Government 2015-16 will be published.","answerText":"We refer the Member to the response to AQW 44310/11-15, answered on 14 April 2015.","answerHtml":"We refer the Member to the response to AQW 44310/11-15, answered on 14 April 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048932%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243944"}},{"id":"243941","reference":"AQW 48929/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-18","answerBy":"2015-10-05","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the funding targeted at reducing rural poverty and social and economic isolation since 2011.","answerText":"Since April 2011, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has invested approximately £16.5 million of funding through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme.\n\nThrough the Delivering Social Change framework we are working with all departments to improve children and young people’s health, well being and life opportunities, and to break the long-term cycle of multi-generational problems across Northern Ireland, including for those living in rural areas.\n\nThe benefits of this approach have been illustrated by the multi-departmental, multi-agency and multi sectoral implementation of six cross cutting signature programmes, costing some £26m, which are multi-faceted and span across Northern Ireland. The programmes have sought to provide a wide range of holistic interventions to encourage re-engagement in education, training or employment and enhance prospects to become full participants in society.\n\nTogether: Building a United Community is the Executive’s comprehensive strategy to improve community relations. It contains a package of significant and strategic actions aimed at improving community relations and building a united, shared and reconciled society.\n\nWhilst the focus of the Strategy is not targeted at reducing rural poverty and social and economic isolation, some of the actions and commitments will impact on rural areas.\n\nThe Executive’s draft ten year strategy for Affordable and Integrated Childcare was launched for public consultation on 28 July, with consultation due to run for 16 weeks until 13 November 2015. Within the context of the draft Strategy, we have been working closely with colleagues in DARD who wish to develop appropriate childcare interventions in rural areas. Through the creation of appropriate rural childcare models, the aim is to improve the sustainability and affordability of rural childcare provision and by doing so, enhance the accessibility to rural families. It is also intended that rural childcare needs will be mainstreamed across the full range of actions in the final Childcare Strategy.\n\nOur vision is that no child here is disadvantaged by poverty or deprivation. A review of the Child Poverty Strategy was conducted last year which has helped inform the development of a revised Child Poverty Strategy.\n\nOur aims are to reduce the number of children affected by poverty and deprivation and to reduce the impact on children.\n\nThe revised Strategy will contain a range of actions focused on four high level outcomes to deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and social exclusion issues by way of better joined up working between Government departments. Actions include supporting young people in rural areas in relation to; education, employment, childcare, fuel poverty, financial matters and community development.","answerHtml":"Since April 2011, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has invested approximately £16.5 million of funding through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme.
Through the Delivering Social Change framework we are working with all departments to improve children and young people’s health, well being and life opportunities, and to break the long-term cycle of multi-generational problems across Northern Ireland, including for those living in rural areas.
The benefits of this approach have been illustrated by the multi-departmental, multi-agency and multi sectoral implementation of six cross cutting signature programmes, costing some £26m, which are multi-faceted and span across Northern Ireland. The programmes have sought to provide a wide range of holistic interventions to encourage re-engagement in education, training or employment and enhance prospects to become full participants in society.
Together: Building a United Community is the Executive’s comprehensive strategy to improve community relations. It contains a package of significant and strategic actions aimed at improving community relations and building a united, shared and reconciled society.
Whilst the focus of the Strategy is not targeted at reducing rural poverty and social and economic isolation, some of the actions and commitments will impact on rural areas.
The Executive’s draft ten year strategy for Affordable and Integrated Childcare was launched for public consultation on 28 July, with consultation due to run for 16 weeks until 13 November 2015. Within the context of the draft Strategy, we have been working closely with colleagues in DARD who wish to develop appropriate childcare interventions in rural areas. Through the creation of appropriate rural childcare models, the aim is to improve the sustainability and affordability of rural childcare provision and by doing so, enhance the accessibility to rural families. It is also intended that rural childcare needs will be mainstreamed across the full range of actions in the final Childcare Strategy.
Our vision is that no child here is disadvantaged by poverty or deprivation. A review of the Child Poverty Strategy was conducted last year which has helped inform the development of a revised Child Poverty Strategy.
Our aims are to reduce the number of children affected by poverty and deprivation and to reduce the impact on children.
The revised Strategy will contain a range of actions focused on four high level outcomes to deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and social exclusion issues by way of better joined up working between Government departments. Actions include supporting young people in rural areas in relation to; education, employment, childcare, fuel poverty, financial matters and community development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048929%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243941"}},{"id":"243875","reference":"AQW 48909/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-10-02","answered":"2015-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the impact of closing the Modern Language School at Ulster University Coleraine on students beginning their studies in 2015/2016, if staff redundancies are to begin before the completion of their degrees.","answerText":"The University has confirmed that it is in the process of developing a detailed plan to ensure that students beginning their studies in Modern Languages in 2015/2016 will continue to avail of the learning opportunities provided to other current students. This will include:\n\nThe continued delivery and assessment of modules as per the current course documentation;\n\nAppropriate arrangements for course management and study advice;\n\nContinued international partnerships to facilitate study or placement abroad during the intercalary year;\n\nNative speaker presence; and\n\nAppropriate library and media provision.\n\nThis will continue until students in the last cohort of Modern Languages programmes complete their degrees in 2019.","answerHtml":"The University has confirmed that it is in the process of developing a detailed plan to ensure that students beginning their studies in Modern Languages in 2015/2016 will continue to avail of the learning opportunities provided to other current students. This will include:
The continued delivery and assessment of modules as per the current course documentation;
Appropriate arrangements for course management and study advice;
Continued international partnerships to facilitate study or placement abroad during the intercalary year;
Native speaker presence; and
Appropriate library and media provision.
This will continue until students in the last cohort of Modern Languages programmes complete their degrees in 2019.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048909%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243875"}},{"id":"243874","reference":"AQW 48908/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-10-02","answered":"2015-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how staff at Ulster University, Coleraine, have been informed about changes to their employment, following the closure of the Modern Languages School.","answerText":"While my Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, universities are autonomous and responsible for their own personnel policies and procedures.","answerHtml":"While my Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, universities are autonomous and responsible for their own personnel policies and procedures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048908%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243874"}},{"id":"243872","reference":"AQW 48907/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-10-02","answered":"2015-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the review of the current business rates system.","answerText":"I have been considering the findings from the innovation lab and hope shortly to finalise and publish terms of reference for the review. I have already received the views of the Finance Committee on the direction of the review and am in the process of advising other Ministers. Initial research and preparatory drafting of the consultation document commenced over the summer. I plan to publish the paper late autumn, which will initiate a 12 week open consultation process.","answerHtml":"I have been considering the findings from the innovation lab and hope shortly to finalise and publish terms of reference for the review. I have already received the views of the Finance Committee on the direction of the review and am in the process of advising other Ministers. Initial research and preparatory drafting of the consultation document commenced over the summer. I plan to publish the paper late autumn, which will initiate a 12 week open consultation process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048907%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243872","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243872"}},{"id":"243871","reference":"AQW 48906/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-10-02","answered":"2015-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail what communication his Department has had with Ulster University, Coleraine, regarding a time scale for staff redundancies due to the closure of the Modern Languages School.","answerText":"I have had ongoing discussions with Ulster University in relation to the possible implications of the budget reductions to the higher education sector, including the closure of the School of Modern Languages.\n\nHowever, while my Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, universities are autonomous and responsible for their own staffing levels and potential redundancies.","answerHtml":"I have had ongoing discussions with Ulster University in relation to the possible implications of the budget reductions to the higher education sector, including the closure of the School of Modern Languages.
However, while my Department provides funding and sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, universities are autonomous and responsible for their own staffing levels and potential redundancies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048906%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243871","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243871"}},{"id":"243870","reference":"AQW 48905/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-10-02","answered":"2015-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail what communication his Department has had with major businesses, who have expressed concerns about the future lack of local linguistic skills, following the closure of the Modern Languages School at Ulster University Coleraine.","answerText":"My Department has not had any communication or received any feedback from major businesses, including international businesses, regarding a potential deficit in modern language skills due to the closure of the School of Modern Languages at Ulster University.","answerHtml":"My Department has not had any communication or received any feedback from major businesses, including international businesses, regarding a potential deficit in modern language skills due to the closure of the School of Modern Languages at Ulster University.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048905%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243870","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243870"}},{"id":"243865","reference":"AQO 8752/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-09-29","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of community transport provision in rural and urban areas.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208752%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243865"}},{"id":"243850","reference":"AQO 8733/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-17","answerBy":"2015-09-28","answered":"2015-09-28","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the availability of capital funding for the redevelopment of HMP Magilligan.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Ford","text":"An outline business case for the redevelopment of Magilligan prison was approved by DFP on 9 January 2015. I met the then Minister of Finance and Personnel on 28 April to discuss capital funding for the delivery of the Prison Service estate strategy. It is difficult to make commitments to deliver an eight-year construction programme without the assurance of funding across a number of spending review periods. Securing the necessary capital will determine the timeline for the development of the new prison at Magilligan. My officials will complete the necessary bid to secure capital funding for the project when it is launched by DFP."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"At what point does the Department need to re-evaluate the outline business case, which is nearly a year into approval by DFP?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ford","text":"I am happy to say that the outline business case is a sound case that was done a year ago, and there is no likelihood of it needing to be renewed in the near future. The question is much more this: at what point will the Executive agree the finances for Northern Ireland for the future so that we know what the opportunities are for capital spending on not just Magilligan prison but on the much needed women's facility and the upgrading of accommodation at Maghaberry?"},{"speaker":"Mr Dallat","text":"I thank the Minister for his response. I am doing my best to interpret it as positive. Given that the Minister gave the Assembly an assurance that he was committed to Magilligan prison staying on its present site, will he tell the House what preparatory work has been done to give confidence to the 300 people who work there and the families of people who prefer their family members to be there rather than in that other place called Maghaberry?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ford","text":"We should not suggest that preparing the outline business case was not a great deal of preparatory work. That business case has involved all aspects of the running of the prison, including looking at future arrangements for training, job skills, healthcare and staffing. It is not simply a matter of looking at buildings as being major in the business case but at what the needs will be into the future. I believe that that is a firm statement of commitment, which follows through on the commitment I gave the Assembly when I reported back on that particular aspect of the prison reform programme. The fundamental issue is not whether the DOJ is committed to the developments needed at Magilligan and the other prisons, but whether the capital is available. That requires a joined-up Executive decision. It is not even just a matter for the Justice and Finance Departments, but will require the Executive, as a whole, to prepare a capital programme."},{"speaker":"Mrs Overend","text":"Is the Minister aware that, following the delays and prevarications over the community safety college in Desertcreat, there is a great deal of suspicion that Magilligan's location west of the Bann is not helping it when it comes to seeking finance and urgency from his Department and the Executive?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ford","text":"I cannot accept the thesis that there is prevarication around Desertcreat, which is the responsibility of the DOJ, and which is, apart from anything else, an Executive project that is led jointly by the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, when we have one, and me. I also think that it is fairly clear that the commitment I made to Magilligan, in defiance of a recommendation from the prison reform team that all adult male prisoners should be housed at Maghaberry, is an indication that there is genuine commitment. I do remember, around that time, meeting a group of councillors from some of the councils in the north-west, one of whom somewhat grumpily told me that he thought that some people believed that the world ended at Sandyknowes. I told him that I agreed with that, but pointed out that, as a MLA for South Antrim, I believe that it starts halfway across the Toome bridge. It is certainly not a case of matters being centralised in Belfast: it is a matter of using the opportunities with business and local councils for the constructive activity that was promised. Those promises are still there. That is part of the plan for the redevelopment of Magilligan."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208733%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243850","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-09-28&docID=244305#AQO%208733/11-16","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243850"}},{"id":"243728","reference":"AQW 48863/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-16","answerBy":"2015-10-01","answered":"2015-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the number of times the Ageing Strategy Advisory Group has met in the last 12 months; and (ii) the outcomes of the meetings.","answerText":"The Ageing Strategy Advisory Group has met with OFMDFM officials twice in the last 12 months. In addition, there has been contact via e-mail.\n\nThe Advisory Group has provided advice and input into the final draft of the document, with a particular focus on the draft outcomes included in the Strategy.","answerHtml":"The Ageing Strategy Advisory Group has met with OFMDFM officials twice in the last 12 months. In addition, there has been contact via e-mail.
The Advisory Group has provided advice and input into the final draft of the document, with a particular focus on the draft outcomes included in the Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048863%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243728","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243728"}},{"id":"243726","reference":"AQW 48862/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-16","answerBy":"2015-10-01","answered":"2015-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) to detail what proportion of the £80 Million allocation for the Social Investment Fund remains unspent; and (ii) whether the Social Investment Fund is on track to achieve its objectives.","answerText":"Forty two projects have been approved to date with associated costs of around £58 million across all nine Social Investment Zones. The remaining £22 million will be allocated to projects, subject to the necessary approvals.\n\nAn outcome based monitoring and evaluation framework is in place with population based indicators relating to the four strategic objectives of the social investment fund being monitored on an annual basis. Project level performance measures are and will be monitored on a quarterly basis to ensure that projects are meeting their anticipated outcomes. As projects which have commenced are at a very early stage it is not feasible as yet to assess to what extent objectives are being met.","answerHtml":"Forty two projects have been approved to date with associated costs of around £58 million across all nine Social Investment Zones. The remaining £22 million will be allocated to projects, subject to the necessary approvals.
An outcome based monitoring and evaluation framework is in place with population based indicators relating to the four strategic objectives of the social investment fund being monitored on an annual basis. Project level performance measures are and will be monitored on a quarterly basis to ensure that projects are meeting their anticipated outcomes. As projects which have commenced are at a very early stage it is not feasible as yet to assess to what extent objectives are being met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048862%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243726"}},{"id":"243725","reference":"AQW 48861/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-16","answerBy":"2015-10-01","answered":"2015-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he is working with schools to encourage families of children who are eligible to avail of free school meals.","answerText":"I am keen to ensure that the parents/guardians of every child who is eligible to a free school meal (FSM) establishes that entitlement and avails of a nutritionally\n\nbalanced meal during the school day.\n\nMy Department works in partnership with the Education Authority (EA) and individual schools to take various steps to promote both applications for and uptake of FSM. To encourage parents to check they are eligible to a FSM the EA issues press releases, sends out renewal applications and letters to parents, and distributes display posters to schools, the Social Security Agency, the Citizens Advice Bureau and libraries to increase awareness of entitlement criteria and the application process. Within schools there are a range of activities undertaken to encourage uptake including the installation of cashless payment systems in a number of postprimary schools to reduce any perceived stigma associated with FSM, menus are sent home with pupils and promoted through school websites, theme days and taster sessions are arranged for parents and pupils and the uptake of FSM meals against entitlement is monitored to identify particular issues. Consideration is also given to ways of improving the school meals experience of pupils by reducing queuing time, improving the variety and quality of food and improving the dining environment and experience, as these factors can impact on a decision to avail of a FSM.\n\nMy Department also issues a press release before the start of the school year to encourage parents who think they might be eligible to a FSM to apply and officials are working with colleagues in the Department for Social Development to explore further ways to encourage parents receiving a qualifying benefit to apply for FSM.","answerHtml":"I am keen to ensure that the parents/guardians of every child who is eligible to a free school meal (FSM) establishes that entitlement and avails of a nutritionally
balanced meal during the school day.
My Department works in partnership with the Education Authority (EA) and individual schools to take various steps to promote both applications for and uptake of FSM. To encourage parents to check they are eligible to a FSM the EA issues press releases, sends out renewal applications and letters to parents, and distributes display posters to schools, the Social Security Agency, the Citizens Advice Bureau and libraries to increase awareness of entitlement criteria and the application process. Within schools there are a range of activities undertaken to encourage uptake including the installation of cashless payment systems in a number of postprimary schools to reduce any perceived stigma associated with FSM, menus are sent home with pupils and promoted through school websites, theme days and taster sessions are arranged for parents and pupils and the uptake of FSM meals against entitlement is monitored to identify particular issues. Consideration is also given to ways of improving the school meals experience of pupils by reducing queuing time, improving the variety and quality of food and improving the dining environment and experience, as these factors can impact on a decision to avail of a FSM.
My Department also issues a press release before the start of the school year to encourage parents who think they might be eligible to a FSM to apply and officials are working with colleagues in the Department for Social Development to explore further ways to encourage parents receiving a qualifying benefit to apply for FSM.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048861%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243725"}},{"id":"243724","reference":"AQW 48860/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-16","answerBy":"2015-10-01","answered":"2015-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what steps his Department is taking to increase the percentage of five or more GCSEs at grades A-C, or equivalent achieved, among pupils who receive free school meals.","answerText":"Young people who see their time in education as relevant to their aspirations and interests are more likely to remain engaged with their education and achieve their full potential. The full implementation of the Entitlement Framework is about broadening access to economically relevant and individually engaging courses with clear progression pathways for all pupils in Key Stage 4 and post-16. This can make an important contribution to increasing the proportion of pupils who achieve at least five GCSEs at A*-C grades (or equivalent).\n\nIn 2014 the proportion of Year 12 pupils entitled to free school meals achieving five or more GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades A*-C increased by 2.0 percentage points (from 62.6% in 2012/13 to 64.6% in 2013/14). Improvements in attainment at age sixteen are enabling our most deprived children to remain in education. In the last year a greater proportion of free school meal entitled pupils stayed on into year 13 in school to continue their education and undertake level 3 studies; an increase from 43.2% in 2013/14 to 44.8% in 2014/15.\n\nEvidence shows that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, with greater obstacles to overcome, make up a significant proportion of those who do not achieve at this level. Therefore, I have redistributed school funding to target those schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. I have also funded and implemented interventions to improve outcomes in literacy and numeracy.\n\nA legacy project for the Delivering Social Change Literacy and Numeracy Programme will be developed to ensure that the best practice and learning developed through the Programme can be disseminated across all schools.\n\nI have also provided funding to support programmes aimed at improving school-parent and school-community links. In addition, the focus of the Education Works advertising campaign in 2014/15 was on parents of post primary school age pupils and sought to encourage parents to take steps to support their child in making subject choices and planning for their future education, training and career. The second phase of this year’s campaign, to be launched in January 2016, will also focus on parents of post-primary school age pupils.\n\nHowever, to raise standards across our education system we need to remove the inequalities within the system, and that means removing academic selection. Admissions decisions based on the outcome of unregulated academic testing are not consistent with the objective of treating children fairly and giving each child the opportunity to reach his/her full potential. This is consistent with views expressed by the Human Rights Commission, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the NI Children’s Commissioner and international experts from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.\n\nThe results of the 2013 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) – an international comparison of school systems for 15 year olds – highlighted the remarkably wide gap between high achievers and low achievers in our education system. The use of academic selection contributes to the maintenance of that gap, resulting in our system being at best average in the PISA rankings.\n\nThe continued use of academic selection is a barrier to addressing underachievement in disadvantaged communities. It damages children’s confidence, their motivation to learn, and lowers their expectations of themselves, all of which contributes to the high levels of underachievement we are seeking to tackle.","answerHtml":"Young people who see their time in education as relevant to their aspirations and interests are more likely to remain engaged with their education and achieve their full potential. The full implementation of the Entitlement Framework is about broadening access to economically relevant and individually engaging courses with clear progression pathways for all pupils in Key Stage 4 and post-16. This can make an important contribution to increasing the proportion of pupils who achieve at least five GCSEs at A*-C grades (or equivalent).
In 2014 the proportion of Year 12 pupils entitled to free school meals achieving five or more GCSEs (or equivalent) at grades A*-C increased by 2.0 percentage points (from 62.6% in 2012/13 to 64.6% in 2013/14). Improvements in attainment at age sixteen are enabling our most deprived children to remain in education. In the last year a greater proportion of free school meal entitled pupils stayed on into year 13 in school to continue their education and undertake level 3 studies; an increase from 43.2% in 2013/14 to 44.8% in 2014/15.
Evidence shows that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds, with greater obstacles to overcome, make up a significant proportion of those who do not achieve at this level. Therefore, I have redistributed school funding to target those schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. I have also funded and implemented interventions to improve outcomes in literacy and numeracy.
A legacy project for the Delivering Social Change Literacy and Numeracy Programme will be developed to ensure that the best practice and learning developed through the Programme can be disseminated across all schools.
I have also provided funding to support programmes aimed at improving school-parent and school-community links. In addition, the focus of the Education Works advertising campaign in 2014/15 was on parents of post primary school age pupils and sought to encourage parents to take steps to support their child in making subject choices and planning for their future education, training and career. The second phase of this year’s campaign, to be launched in January 2016, will also focus on parents of post-primary school age pupils.
However, to raise standards across our education system we need to remove the inequalities within the system, and that means removing academic selection. Admissions decisions based on the outcome of unregulated academic testing are not consistent with the objective of treating children fairly and giving each child the opportunity to reach his/her full potential. This is consistent with views expressed by the Human Rights Commission, the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child, the NI Children’s Commissioner and international experts from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.
The results of the 2013 Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) – an international comparison of school systems for 15 year olds – highlighted the remarkably wide gap between high achievers and low achievers in our education system. The use of academic selection contributes to the maintenance of that gap, resulting in our system being at best average in the PISA rankings.
The continued use of academic selection is a barrier to addressing underachievement in disadvantaged communities. It damages children’s confidence, their motivation to learn, and lowers their expectations of themselves, all of which contributes to the high levels of underachievement we are seeking to tackle.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048860%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243724"}},{"id":"243721","reference":"AQW 48859/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-16","answerBy":"2015-10-01","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the time scale for the publication of the Active Ageing Strategy; and (ii) what communication they have had with Age Sector groups regarding progress to date.","answerText":"Subject to Executive approval, the Active Ageing Strategy will be published as soon as possible.\n\nWe have had ongoing communication concerning the Strategy with the Ageing Strategy Advisory Group, which has representation from the Age Sector and was chaired by the former Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Subject to Executive approval, the Active Ageing Strategy will be published as soon as possible.
We have had ongoing communication concerning the Strategy with the Ageing Strategy Advisory Group, which has representation from the Age Sector and was chaired by the former Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048859%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243721","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243721"}},{"id":"243583","reference":"AQW 48833/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-15","answerBy":"2015-09-30","answered":"2015-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what departmental grants and funding streams are expected to open for applications for the 2016 calendar year.","answerText":"The attached table details grants and funding streams which are expected to open for applications for the 2016 calendar/2016/17 financial year. It does not include Lottery funded programmes.\n\nFunder\tName of Programme / Grant Scheme\tPeriod Funded\nDCAL\tSub Regional Stadiums Programme(Soccer)\t2016\nNI Museums Council\tAccredited Museum Grant Programme\t2016\nNI Museums Council\tAcquisition Fund\t2016\nLanguages and Waterways Branch\tSign Language Partnership Group (subject to availability of funding)\t2016\nInland Fisheries\tCompetitive Fund for Angling Outreach Events\t2016\nSport Northern Ireland\tT:BUC - Cross Community Youth Sport Programme (in collaboration with DCAL)\t2016\nSport Northern Ireland\tAthlete Development Investment\t2016/17\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim Pobal Gaeilge\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim Tacaíochta Gnó\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tTacaíocht do Ghrúpaí le Gaeilge\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim na bhFéilte\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim na gComplachtaí Dramaíochta\t20162\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim na nImeachtaí óige\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim na gCampaí samhraidh\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim na dTionscadal Litríochta\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéimeanna Dheontas Cholmcille\t2016\nForas na Gaeilge\tScéim Sparánachta Cholmcille\t2016\nUlster-Scots\tMusic and Dance Tuition Programme\t2016\nUlster-Scots\tCommunity Impact Grants\t2016\nUlster-Scots\tUlster-Scots Summer Schools\t2016\nUlster-Scots\tUlster-Scots Community Festivals Programme\t2016\nACNI\tAnnual Funding Programme\t2016\nACNI\tSmall Grants Programme\t2016\nACNI\tIntercultural Arts grants Programme\t2016\nACNI\tSupport for the Individual Artist Programme\t2016\nACNI\tInternational Programme for Organisations\t2016\nACNI\tPublic Art\t2016","answerHtml":"The attached table details grants and funding streams which are expected to open for applications for the 2016 calendar/2016/17 financial year. It does not include Lottery funded programmes.
| Funder | Name of Programme / Grant Scheme | Period Funded |
| DCAL | Sub Regional Stadiums Programme(Soccer) | 2016 |
| NI Museums Council | Accredited Museum Grant Programme | 2016 |
| NI Museums Council | Acquisition Fund | 2016 |
| Languages and Waterways Branch | Sign Language Partnership Group (subject to availability of funding) | 2016 |
| Inland Fisheries | Competitive Fund for Angling Outreach Events | 2016 |
| Sport Northern Ireland | T:BUC - Cross Community Youth Sport Programme (in collaboration with DCAL) | 2016 |
| Sport Northern Ireland | Athlete Development Investment | 2016/17 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim Pobal Gaeilge | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim Tacaíochta Gnó | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Tacaíocht do Ghrúpaí le Gaeilge | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim na bhFéilte | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim na gComplachtaí Dramaíochta | 20162 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim na nImeachtaí óige | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim na gCampaí samhraidh | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim na dTionscadal Litríochta | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéimeanna Dheontas Cholmcille | 2016 |
| Foras na Gaeilge | Scéim Sparánachta Cholmcille | 2016 |
| Ulster-Scots | Music and Dance Tuition Programme | 2016 |
| Ulster-Scots | Community Impact Grants | 2016 |
| Ulster-Scots | Ulster-Scots Summer Schools | 2016 |
| Ulster-Scots | Ulster-Scots Community Festivals Programme | 2016 |
| ACNI | Annual Funding Programme | 2016 |
| ACNI | Small Grants Programme | 2016 |
| ACNI | Intercultural Arts grants Programme | 2016 |
| ACNI | Support for the Individual Artist Programme | 2016 |
| ACNI | International Programme for Organisations | 2016 |
| ACNI | Public Art | 2016 |
A bid was submitted in the 2015/16 June Monitoring Round to support continuation of successful projects and outcomes from the 2014/15 North West Social and Economic Development Programme.
As you are aware, the Executive has not yet agreed in-year Monitoring Round bids in the 2015-16 financial year.
My officials continue to work closely with stakeholders in the North West to support partnerships and opportunities to maximise the long term impact of City of Culture 2013. A significant investment of £6m from 1st January 2014 to date has significantly increased capacity and sustainability of successful projects established in 2013.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048832%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243582"}},{"id":"243580","reference":"AQW 48831/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-15","answerBy":"2015-09-30","answered":"2015-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice on how many occassions since 2012 his Department has met the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Older People to discuss crimes against older people, their fear of crime, and actions to address these issues.","answerText":"I refer to AQW/40167/11-15 in which I provided details of the two occasions when I personally met with the Commissioner in March 2013 and June 2015, and a meeting my officials had with representatives from the Office of the Commissioner in July 2012. No other meetings with the Commissioner or her representatives to discuss these issues specifically have taken place since that time.","answerHtml":"I refer to AQW/40167/11-15 in which I provided details of the two occasions when I personally met with the Commissioner in March 2013 and June 2015, and a meeting my officials had with representatives from the Office of the Commissioner in July 2012. No other meetings with the Commissioner or her representatives to discuss these issues specifically have taken place since that time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048831%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243580"}},{"id":"243579","reference":"AQW 48830/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-15","answerBy":"2015-09-30","answered":"2015-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department assesses (i) levels of crime against older people; and (ii) fear of crime amongst older people; and how he is working with statutory agencies, arm’s-length bodies and groups within the community, voluntary and charity sectors to address this issue.","answerText":"My Department developed and leads on the implementation of Building Safer, Shared and Confident Communities: A Community Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland 2012-2017.\n\nThe Strategy has a set of associated action plans, including a dedicated fear of crime action plan detailing the measures which a multi-agency Older Persons Delivery Group is taking forward to reduce the fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people.\n\nMembership of the Group comprises representatives from various statutory bodies across the justice family including PSNI, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships, and the Northern Ireland Policing Board. Other statutory bodies represented include Health and Social Care Board, the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, and the Department of the Environment.\n\nThe Police Service of Northern Ireland recorded crime figures, where a victim is aged 60+, are monitored by the Group. The Group also considers the Northern Ireland Crime Survey findings for respondents over 60 in relation to their feelings about crime and their fear of crime.\n\nIn addition to the representatives detailed above, Age Sector Platform, a voluntary sector organisation which lobbies for the rights of older people, also holds membership of the Group. My Department had previously funded this organisation to carry out research into why older people are so fearful of becoming a victim of crime, even though the statistics show that this is unlikely. My Department is currently funding Age Sector Platform to build on this research, taking forward engagement with older people regionally to address the concerns that they have around crime.\n\nAt a local level, PCSPs are taking forward a range of initiatives that aim to tackle fear of crime amongst older people. For example, Derry City and Strabane PCSP and partners have developed a film resource pack to help raise awareness of scams and financial abuse among older people. Community Safety Wardens and other community leaders are using this resource to engage with older persons groups, providing practical advice on improving their safety.","answerHtml":"My Department developed and leads on the implementation of Building Safer, Shared and Confident Communities: A Community Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland 2012-2017.
The Strategy has a set of associated action plans, including a dedicated fear of crime action plan detailing the measures which a multi-agency Older Persons Delivery Group is taking forward to reduce the fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people.
Membership of the Group comprises representatives from various statutory bodies across the justice family including PSNI, Policing and Community Safety Partnerships, and the Northern Ireland Policing Board. Other statutory bodies represented include Health and Social Care Board, the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister, and the Department of the Environment.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland recorded crime figures, where a victim is aged 60+, are monitored by the Group. The Group also considers the Northern Ireland Crime Survey findings for respondents over 60 in relation to their feelings about crime and their fear of crime.
In addition to the representatives detailed above, Age Sector Platform, a voluntary sector organisation which lobbies for the rights of older people, also holds membership of the Group. My Department had previously funded this organisation to carry out research into why older people are so fearful of becoming a victim of crime, even though the statistics show that this is unlikely. My Department is currently funding Age Sector Platform to build on this research, taking forward engagement with older people regionally to address the concerns that they have around crime.
At a local level, PCSPs are taking forward a range of initiatives that aim to tackle fear of crime amongst older people. For example, Derry City and Strabane PCSP and partners have developed a film resource pack to help raise awareness of scams and financial abuse among older people. Community Safety Wardens and other community leaders are using this resource to engage with older persons groups, providing practical advice on improving their safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048830%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243579"}},{"id":"243578","reference":"AQW 48829/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-15","answerBy":"2015-09-30","answered":"2015-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the Belfast Age Friendly Strategy; and whether his Department plans to support the development of Age Friendly Strategies in other areas.","answerText":"Belfast Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and District Policing and Community Safety Partnerships have been involved in the implementation of the Belfast Age Friendly Strategy, developed by Belfast Strategic Partnership. I understand that intergenerational work in particular is a priority for the PCSP.\n\nThe multi-agency Older Persons Delivery Group, chaired by my Department, has developed an action plan which contains a range of measures being taken forward by the relevant organisations to tackle fear of crime among older people. Last year, the Group invited representatives from the Belfast Strategic Partnership to deliver a presentation on the Age Friendly Strategy, to discuss how it would be implemented and to offer support where it was deemed necessary.\n\nMy Department would welcome development of Age Friendly Strategies in other areas, and would particularly welcome the involvement of PCSPs to support the implementation of such strategies at a local level to address fear of crime issues amongst older people.","answerHtml":"Belfast Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) and District Policing and Community Safety Partnerships have been involved in the implementation of the Belfast Age Friendly Strategy, developed by Belfast Strategic Partnership. I understand that intergenerational work in particular is a priority for the PCSP.
The multi-agency Older Persons Delivery Group, chaired by my Department, has developed an action plan which contains a range of measures being taken forward by the relevant organisations to tackle fear of crime among older people. Last year, the Group invited representatives from the Belfast Strategic Partnership to deliver a presentation on the Age Friendly Strategy, to discuss how it would be implemented and to offer support where it was deemed necessary.
My Department would welcome development of Age Friendly Strategies in other areas, and would particularly welcome the involvement of PCSPs to support the implementation of such strategies at a local level to address fear of crime issues amongst older people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048829%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243578"}},{"id":"243493","reference":"AQW 48792/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-14","answerBy":"2015-09-29","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) the projects submitted by Departments in order to deliver the objectives identified within the Disability Strategy 2011-2017; and (ii) how accepted projects will be funded.","answerText":"We are still considering a range of projects from departments to deliver the Executive’s Disability Strategy’s strategic priorities. The proposed projects cover a range of disabilities and age groups, from children to older people.\n\nAs there are no ring-fenced funds available to take forward these projects, departments will have to find the proposed projects from within their core business.","answerHtml":"We are still considering a range of projects from departments to deliver the Executive’s Disability Strategy’s strategic priorities. The proposed projects cover a range of disabilities and age groups, from children to older people.
As there are no ring-fenced funds available to take forward these projects, departments will have to find the proposed projects from within their core business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048792%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243493"}},{"id":"243492","reference":"AQW 48791/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-14","answerBy":"2015-09-29","answered":"2015-10-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) all outstanding targets within the Disability Strategy 2011-2015; and (ii) the forward work programme within the extended Disability Strategy that will ensure outstanding targets are met.","answerText":"The Executive’s Disability Strategy does not contain targets; it focuses on twelve themes and eighteen strategic priorities. Progress against the strategic priorities has been recorded in the first Annual Report, which is available at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-report-2013-2014.pdf\n\nWhen the Strategy was published in 2013, a baseline indicator report was also launched, which set a strategic baseline to underpin the Strategy’s themes and priorities. To monitor progress on an annual basis, a set of indicators has been publicly consulted on; our department is currently considering the feedback from the consultation.\n\nAs departments are continuing to work towards implementing the strategic priorities, the Executive has extended the lifespan of the strategy until March 2017.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Disability Strategy does not contain targets; it focuses on twelve themes and eighteen strategic priorities. Progress against the strategic priorities has been recorded in the first Annual Report, which is available at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-report-2013-2014.pdf
When the Strategy was published in 2013, a baseline indicator report was also launched, which set a strategic baseline to underpin the Strategy’s themes and priorities. To monitor progress on an annual basis, a set of indicators has been publicly consulted on; our department is currently considering the feedback from the consultation.
As departments are continuing to work towards implementing the strategic priorities, the Executive has extended the lifespan of the strategy until March 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048791%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243492"}},{"id":"243491","reference":"AQW 48790/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-14","answerBy":"2015-09-29","answered":"2016-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail what steps have been taken to address the correlation between poverty, disability and poor educational outcomes since 2011.","answerText":"The Executive’s Disability Strategy, “A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities”, includes strategic priorities around support for families / carers with children or a family member with a disability, support for parents and carers with a disability and transition to adulthood for young people with disabilities. Strategic priorities also address reducing poverty among people with disabilities and their families and protecting their right to an adequate standard of living and also increasing the opportunities of people with disabilities to attain skills and qualifications through access to appropriate training and lifelong learning opportunities.\n\nThe Department of Education’s school census includes a ‘disability’ variable but the information provided is self-reported and not validated by the Department. However, Special Educational Needs (SEN) is recorded by ‘stage’ and ‘type of need’, though it should be noted that not all persons with SEN will have a disability.\n\nThere is a diverse range of SEN experienced by pupils, some of which are, and some which are not correlated with deprivation and underachievement. Cognitive and Learning needs and Social, Emotional and Behavioural needs are much more highly correlated with Free School Meal Entitlement (FSME) than any of the other types of special education need. These specific categories of SEN are more closely related with underachievement, and it is these same groups that display an association with FSME.\n\nSEN provision is matched to the individual needs of the child. The Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs sets out a five-stage approach to the process. Some children may move between stages as their needs are met. Some children will have their needs met locally by their own school. Some children will require specialist intervention through the completion of a Statement of Special Educational Needs by the Education Authority (EA).\n\nIn order to support pupils’ SEN across the school sectors, there is wide range of training courses available to teachers.\n\nIn addition to the block grant funding to the EA for special schools and support in mainstream schools, approximately £4.5m of earmarked funding is allocated annually to support SEN provision in a number of areas.\n\nA range of policies and strategies have been developed to address the correlation between deprivation and low attainment. School funding has been redistributed to target those schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. Funded interventions have been taken forward to improve outcomes in literacy and numeracy and to improve school-parent and school-community links.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Disability Strategy, “A Strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities”, includes strategic priorities around support for families / carers with children or a family member with a disability, support for parents and carers with a disability and transition to adulthood for young people with disabilities. Strategic priorities also address reducing poverty among people with disabilities and their families and protecting their right to an adequate standard of living and also increasing the opportunities of people with disabilities to attain skills and qualifications through access to appropriate training and lifelong learning opportunities.
The Department of Education’s school census includes a ‘disability’ variable but the information provided is self-reported and not validated by the Department. However, Special Educational Needs (SEN) is recorded by ‘stage’ and ‘type of need’, though it should be noted that not all persons with SEN will have a disability.
There is a diverse range of SEN experienced by pupils, some of which are, and some which are not correlated with deprivation and underachievement. Cognitive and Learning needs and Social, Emotional and Behavioural needs are much more highly correlated with Free School Meal Entitlement (FSME) than any of the other types of special education need. These specific categories of SEN are more closely related with underachievement, and it is these same groups that display an association with FSME.
SEN provision is matched to the individual needs of the child. The Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs sets out a five-stage approach to the process. Some children may move between stages as their needs are met. Some children will have their needs met locally by their own school. Some children will require specialist intervention through the completion of a Statement of Special Educational Needs by the Education Authority (EA).
In order to support pupils’ SEN across the school sectors, there is wide range of training courses available to teachers.
In addition to the block grant funding to the EA for special schools and support in mainstream schools, approximately £4.5m of earmarked funding is allocated annually to support SEN provision in a number of areas.
A range of policies and strategies have been developed to address the correlation between deprivation and low attainment. School funding has been redistributed to target those schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds. Funded interventions have been taken forward to improve outcomes in literacy and numeracy and to improve school-parent and school-community links.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048790%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243491"}},{"id":"243490","reference":"AQW 48789/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-14","answerBy":"2015-09-29","answered":"2015-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail when the first annual report on the delivery of the Disability Strategy will be published.","answerText":"The first annual report, which provides an update on the actions taken forward across Government to implement the Executive’s Disability Strategy between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2014 is available on the OFMDFM website at: http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-report-2013-2014.pdf","answerHtml":"The first annual report, which provides an update on the actions taken forward across Government to implement the Executive’s Disability Strategy between 1 April 2013 and 31 March 2014 is available on the OFMDFM website at: http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-report-2013-2014.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048789%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243490"}},{"id":"243489","reference":"AQW 48788/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-14","answerBy":"2015-09-29","answered":"2015-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Disability Awareness and Advocacy Focus Group as part of the Delivering Social Change framework.","answerText":"The Executive recently extended the Disability Strategy until 2017 to allow additional time to fully implement the Strategy’s 18 strategic priorities. One of the key priorities will be to take forward the work stream on disability awareness and advocacy to help build a greater awareness of advocacy support for people with disabilities, their families and carers.","answerHtml":"The Executive recently extended the Disability Strategy until 2017 to allow additional time to fully implement the Strategy’s 18 strategic priorities. One of the key priorities will be to take forward the work stream on disability awareness and advocacy to help build a greater awareness of advocacy support for people with disabilities, their families and carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048788%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243489"}},{"id":"243446","reference":"AQW 48754/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-11","answerBy":"2015-09-28","answered":"2015-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on the ongoing work between Sport NI and local government to develop Sports Facilities Strategies for each council area; and when area reports will be published.","answerText":"I can advise that Sport NI continues to progress the development of a Sports Facilities Strategy for the north of Ireland. In October 2014 Strategic Leisure Limited was appointed to lead a consortium of consultants to take forward the Regional Sport Facilities Strategy with work focusing on research and consultation with key stakeholders from District Councils, Governing Bodies and other Government Departments. The Strategy is complemented by 11 associated Council Area Reports which are currently being prepared by District Councils.\n\nI understand that Sport NI has now received a first draft of the Sports Facilities Strategy for consideration and comment. This will be finalised in partnership with District Councils during the period September – December 2015.\n\nDistrict Councils are also currently finalising the Council Area Reports on the provision of sports and leisure facilities in each of their areas. Sport NI expects the first drafts of the Council Area Reports to be completed in October/November 2015. These will ensure that the facility needs of local clubs, community organisations and schools will be included.\n\nWhen complete, the Strategy and Reports will provide a framework for the strategic development of sports facilities throughout the north of Ireland.","answerHtml":"I can advise that Sport NI continues to progress the development of a Sports Facilities Strategy for the north of Ireland. In October 2014 Strategic Leisure Limited was appointed to lead a consortium of consultants to take forward the Regional Sport Facilities Strategy with work focusing on research and consultation with key stakeholders from District Councils, Governing Bodies and other Government Departments. The Strategy is complemented by 11 associated Council Area Reports which are currently being prepared by District Councils.
I understand that Sport NI has now received a first draft of the Sports Facilities Strategy for consideration and comment. This will be finalised in partnership with District Councils during the period September – December 2015.
District Councils are also currently finalising the Council Area Reports on the provision of sports and leisure facilities in each of their areas. Sport NI expects the first drafts of the Council Area Reports to be completed in October/November 2015. These will ensure that the facility needs of local clubs, community organisations and schools will be included.
When complete, the Strategy and Reports will provide a framework for the strategic development of sports facilities throughout the north of Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048754%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243446","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243446"}},{"id":"243441","reference":"AQW 48752/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-11","answerBy":"2015-09-28","answered":"2015-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the impact of departmental funding cuts on measures to meet the projected skills needs of the economy as outlined within his Department’s Skills Strategy.","answerText":"The cuts to my Department’s resource budget for 2015-16 were unprecedented in size and scale; £61.5 million of cuts are required in one year, representing 8% of the total resource budget. This has already impacted negatively across several of my Department’s programmes and partnerships which are key to the delivery of the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy ‘Success Through Skills -Transforming Futures’.\n\nThere has been significant impact in both the higher and further education sectors.\n\nHigher education has a key role to play in ensuring a steady supply of individuals with the skills needs required by local businesses. To ensure this the financial sustainability of the sector is crucial. However, the higher education institutions are facing £16.1million of cuts in the 15/16 financial year. This has led to a reduction of 540 full-time undergraduate places this academic year. Over the next three years a total of 1,910 undergraduate places will be lost. Indeed, should budget reductions continue this situation will only worsen. It is also worth noting that even before these significant cuts there was already a funding gap between our local higher education institutions and their counterparts in England – between £1,000 and £2,500 per student place depending on the subject band.\n\nAlthough both universities have endeavoured to protect narrow STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) places to ensure that subject areas offered more closely reflect the needs of the economy, it is inevitable that these cuts will be extremely detrimental to the local skills needs of business and Northern Ireland’s future economic prosperity. Indeed, under a lower corporation tax environment, the demand for higher level skills will increase.\n\nIt is clear to me that the funding model we currently use to support our higher education is no longer sustainable and that is why, on 15th September, I launched a wider conversation about the future financial sustainability of higher education in Northern Ireland entitled “The Higher Education Big Conversation”.\n\nThe Big Conversation will provide the opportunity to have an informed discussion about the financial sustainability of the higher education system here with all stakeholders and the exploration of alternative solution for Northern Ireland’s higher education system. When the process is finished, I will be taking stock of the options open to us and presenting the findings to my Executive colleagues for consideration.\n\nThe further education (FE) sector plays a central role in the implementation of the key strategic priorities of the Programme for Government 2011-2015. The importance of a having a vibrant, flexible FE sector is crucial to ensuring our vision in rebuilding and rebalancing the Northern Ireland economy.\n\nFollowing the unprecedented level of budget cuts to FE this year; colleges have had to implement a major programme of savings. To mitigate the effect of these changes, my Department has been working closely with the sector to safeguard provision, where possible, that supports economic development and workplace skills, and which includes academic as well as professional and technical skills.\n\nAs a result, colleges have had to make very difficult decisions in prioritising provision, whilst at the same time being mindful of the need to develop and grow the provision of higher level skills, particularly those skills that focus on the STEM subjects.\n\n‘Enabling Success’, the Executive’s new Strategy to reduce the persistently high levels of economic inactivity in NI was published on 20 April 2015. The level of economic inactivity is a major economic and social problem which, if left unaddressed, has the potential to both hinder Northern Ireland’s economic growth and to contribute to increased economic strain on finite public resources, such as welfare budgets.\n\nHowever, given the major and ongoing pressures on the Executive’s budget, and the subsequent absorption of these pressures through all Departmental baselines, including my Department, the Strategy remains almost exclusively unresourced. Subsequently, almost all of the implementation projects across a number of government departments have not been able to commence due to a lack of resources.\n\nBudget reductions have also reduced our ability, more broadly, to provide or support opportunities for upskilling the workforce through specific programmes and initiatives in other areas.\n\nIf further cuts are required in 2015-16 my Department will seek to act as strategically as possible, which means trying to protect, first and foremost, those areas that are most relevant to the economy, as well as looking to those services that are provided to those who are most vulnerable.\n\nI am pleased to say, however, that despite the challenging financial and economic climate, Northern Ireland has continued to make progress against the targets in the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy since its publication in 2011. I have continued to press ahead with new approaches for optimum skills realisation such as the new Apprenticeship, Youth Training and Further Education Strategies and the HigherEducationBigConversation.\n\nIn summary, the challenging financial position facing my Department has already impacted across the skills delivery landscape and I anticipate that reduced budgets will continue to impact on the provision of skills required to support the economic aspirations for Northern Ireland. In response to a reduced budget I have committed to ensuring that available budget is focussed on the most economically relevant areas and used to address priority strategic needs and I will continue to do so.","answerHtml":"The cuts to my Department’s resource budget for 2015-16 were unprecedented in size and scale; £61.5 million of cuts are required in one year, representing 8% of the total resource budget. This has already impacted negatively across several of my Department’s programmes and partnerships which are key to the delivery of the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy ‘Success Through Skills -Transforming Futures’.
There has been significant impact in both the higher and further education sectors.
Higher education has a key role to play in ensuring a steady supply of individuals with the skills needs required by local businesses. To ensure this the financial sustainability of the sector is crucial. However, the higher education institutions are facing £16.1million of cuts in the 15/16 financial year. This has led to a reduction of 540 full-time undergraduate places this academic year. Over the next three years a total of 1,910 undergraduate places will be lost. Indeed, should budget reductions continue this situation will only worsen. It is also worth noting that even before these significant cuts there was already a funding gap between our local higher education institutions and their counterparts in England – between £1,000 and £2,500 per student place depending on the subject band.
Although both universities have endeavoured to protect narrow STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) places to ensure that subject areas offered more closely reflect the needs of the economy, it is inevitable that these cuts will be extremely detrimental to the local skills needs of business and Northern Ireland’s future economic prosperity. Indeed, under a lower corporation tax environment, the demand for higher level skills will increase.
It is clear to me that the funding model we currently use to support our higher education is no longer sustainable and that is why, on 15th September, I launched a wider conversation about the future financial sustainability of higher education in Northern Ireland entitled “The Higher Education Big Conversation”.
The Big Conversation will provide the opportunity to have an informed discussion about the financial sustainability of the higher education system here with all stakeholders and the exploration of alternative solution for Northern Ireland’s higher education system. When the process is finished, I will be taking stock of the options open to us and presenting the findings to my Executive colleagues for consideration.
The further education (FE) sector plays a central role in the implementation of the key strategic priorities of the Programme for Government 2011-2015. The importance of a having a vibrant, flexible FE sector is crucial to ensuring our vision in rebuilding and rebalancing the Northern Ireland economy.
Following the unprecedented level of budget cuts to FE this year; colleges have had to implement a major programme of savings. To mitigate the effect of these changes, my Department has been working closely with the sector to safeguard provision, where possible, that supports economic development and workplace skills, and which includes academic as well as professional and technical skills.
As a result, colleges have had to make very difficult decisions in prioritising provision, whilst at the same time being mindful of the need to develop and grow the provision of higher level skills, particularly those skills that focus on the STEM subjects.
‘Enabling Success’, the Executive’s new Strategy to reduce the persistently high levels of economic inactivity in NI was published on 20 April 2015. The level of economic inactivity is a major economic and social problem which, if left unaddressed, has the potential to both hinder Northern Ireland’s economic growth and to contribute to increased economic strain on finite public resources, such as welfare budgets.
However, given the major and ongoing pressures on the Executive’s budget, and the subsequent absorption of these pressures through all Departmental baselines, including my Department, the Strategy remains almost exclusively unresourced. Subsequently, almost all of the implementation projects across a number of government departments have not been able to commence due to a lack of resources.
Budget reductions have also reduced our ability, more broadly, to provide or support opportunities for upskilling the workforce through specific programmes and initiatives in other areas.
If further cuts are required in 2015-16 my Department will seek to act as strategically as possible, which means trying to protect, first and foremost, those areas that are most relevant to the economy, as well as looking to those services that are provided to those who are most vulnerable.
I am pleased to say, however, that despite the challenging financial and economic climate, Northern Ireland has continued to make progress against the targets in the Northern Ireland Skills Strategy since its publication in 2011. I have continued to press ahead with new approaches for optimum skills realisation such as the new Apprenticeship, Youth Training and Further Education Strategies and the HigherEducationBigConversation.
In summary, the challenging financial position facing my Department has already impacted across the skills delivery landscape and I anticipate that reduced budgets will continue to impact on the provision of skills required to support the economic aspirations for Northern Ireland. In response to a reduced budget I have committed to ensuring that available budget is focussed on the most economically relevant areas and used to address priority strategic needs and I will continue to do so.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048752%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243441"}},{"id":"243440","reference":"AQW 48751/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-11","answerBy":"2015-09-28","answered":"2015-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is engaging with local businesses outside of Belfast and Londonderry to discuss their skills needs.","answerText":"Meeting the skills needs of employers remains crucial to ensuring a strong and vibrant economy in Northern Ireland. I have therefore developed a number of channels to ensure that there is effective two-way communication on skills issues. These are designed to reflect the needs of employers across the region.\n\nI personally chair three working groups representing key priority sectors. These are the Food and Drink Industry Working Group, the Information and Communications Technology Working Group and the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group. The membership of these groups includes employers, further and higher education representatives, officials and others with relevant interests. These provide a valuable forum through which employers can articulate their skills needs and interact directly with service and programme providers.\n\nIn addition, I meet regularly with individual employers and representatives of particular sectors. I also meet with organisations such as Chambers of Commerce, the Institute of Directors and the local Confederation of British Industry which provide the opportunity for me to get a clear perspective on skills needs across Northern Ireland.\n\nAt a local level, Further Education Colleges have employer engagement teams in place to meet with employers and respond to their skills needs. Meeting the skills needs of local business is central to the strategic purpose of the Further Education Colleges and they are well placed to respond in a positive way through their general provision and also the Employer Support Programme which helps small and medium sized enterprises to identify and meet skills needs through a collaborative approach. My Department’s Assured Skills programme works in collaboration with indigenous and foreign direct investment companies throughout Northern Ireland to deliver the skills they need. Training is delivered through the Academy model by the Further Education sector, including recruitment and pre-employment training.Using funding secured from the Executive’s Change Fund, Academies have been delivered for employers across Northern Ireland, for example on welding for SDC Trailers in Toombridge and MDF Engineering in Antrim; export sales and marketing for Mallaghan Engineering, EMS and Linden foods in Dungannon, Cubis from Craigavon and Whale Pumps from Bangor.\n\nIn addition, the Employment Service supports all businesses across Northern Ireland by providing a comprehensive range of products and services designed to assist employers to fill vacancies with appropriately skilled staff. This includes engaging proactively with urban and rural employers and the local community sector to promote a better understanding of the skills development and employment opportunities available.The Employer Engagement Team supports local employers by ensuring that people of all skill levels and geographic location are given individually tailored advice and guidance to help address skill deficits in local areas. Plans are also well advanced for the introduction of Employment Liaison Officers whose role will be to establish positive and constructive relationships with local employers and to assist them to recruit suitable skilled staff.\n\nMy Department is also committed to working with employers across Northern Ireland to meet their skills needs through the provision of apprenticeships. I have established an interim Strategic Advisory Forum to provide oversight of the new model for apprenticeships. The Forum is already advising on issues concerning the implementation of this new model. It will also address the issue of how employers, particularly small and micro businesses can be encouraged to engage with the new system.I have also established sector partnerships in support of apprenticeships covering the ICT, manufacturing and engineering and agri-food sectors. These partnerships will ensure employer needs are at the centre of the new system for apprenticeships through developing and agreeing the curriculum and content for relevant occupational areas at each skills level.\n\nFurther partnerships are being established over the coming months to cover construction, financial services, utilities and life sciences.","answerHtml":"Meeting the skills needs of employers remains crucial to ensuring a strong and vibrant economy in Northern Ireland. I have therefore developed a number of channels to ensure that there is effective two-way communication on skills issues. These are designed to reflect the needs of employers across the region.
I personally chair three working groups representing key priority sectors. These are the Food and Drink Industry Working Group, the Information and Communications Technology Working Group and the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group. The membership of these groups includes employers, further and higher education representatives, officials and others with relevant interests. These provide a valuable forum through which employers can articulate their skills needs and interact directly with service and programme providers.
In addition, I meet regularly with individual employers and representatives of particular sectors. I also meet with organisations such as Chambers of Commerce, the Institute of Directors and the local Confederation of British Industry which provide the opportunity for me to get a clear perspective on skills needs across Northern Ireland.
At a local level, Further Education Colleges have employer engagement teams in place to meet with employers and respond to their skills needs. Meeting the skills needs of local business is central to the strategic purpose of the Further Education Colleges and they are well placed to respond in a positive way through their general provision and also the Employer Support Programme which helps small and medium sized enterprises to identify and meet skills needs through a collaborative approach. My Department’s Assured Skills programme works in collaboration with indigenous and foreign direct investment companies throughout Northern Ireland to deliver the skills they need. Training is delivered through the Academy model by the Further Education sector, including recruitment and pre-employment training.Using funding secured from the Executive’s Change Fund, Academies have been delivered for employers across Northern Ireland, for example on welding for SDC Trailers in Toombridge and MDF Engineering in Antrim; export sales and marketing for Mallaghan Engineering, EMS and Linden foods in Dungannon, Cubis from Craigavon and Whale Pumps from Bangor.
In addition, the Employment Service supports all businesses across Northern Ireland by providing a comprehensive range of products and services designed to assist employers to fill vacancies with appropriately skilled staff. This includes engaging proactively with urban and rural employers and the local community sector to promote a better understanding of the skills development and employment opportunities available.The Employer Engagement Team supports local employers by ensuring that people of all skill levels and geographic location are given individually tailored advice and guidance to help address skill deficits in local areas. Plans are also well advanced for the introduction of Employment Liaison Officers whose role will be to establish positive and constructive relationships with local employers and to assist them to recruit suitable skilled staff.
My Department is also committed to working with employers across Northern Ireland to meet their skills needs through the provision of apprenticeships. I have established an interim Strategic Advisory Forum to provide oversight of the new model for apprenticeships. The Forum is already advising on issues concerning the implementation of this new model. It will also address the issue of how employers, particularly small and micro businesses can be encouraged to engage with the new system.I have also established sector partnerships in support of apprenticeships covering the ICT, manufacturing and engineering and agri-food sectors. These partnerships will ensure employer needs are at the centre of the new system for apprenticeships through developing and agreeing the curriculum and content for relevant occupational areas at each skills level.
Further partnerships are being established over the coming months to cover construction, financial services, utilities and life sciences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048751%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243440"}},{"id":"243284","reference":"AQW 48696/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-10","answerBy":"2015-09-25","answered":"2015-09-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail when the Outline Business Case, as submitted by the Northern Regional College in respect of its accommodation needs, will be approved; and to give a timescale for the announcement of a preferred option for a new build.","answerText":"The Northern Regional College is close to finalising the business case for proposals to address deficiencies at its Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena campuses. I had hoped the business case would have been officially presented to my Department before now. However, while the delay is regrettable, I accept that given the significant investment potential, it is appropriate to take the necessary time to ensure a robust case is made in support of the preferred option.\n\nThe current timescale should see the final business case being presented to my Department by the end of this month and subject to my approval and the approval of the Department of Finance and Personnel, a final decision on the preferred option is expected in October 2015.","answerHtml":"The Northern Regional College is close to finalising the business case for proposals to address deficiencies at its Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena campuses. I had hoped the business case would have been officially presented to my Department before now. However, while the delay is regrettable, I accept that given the significant investment potential, it is appropriate to take the necessary time to ensure a robust case is made in support of the preferred option.
The current timescale should see the final business case being presented to my Department by the end of this month and subject to my approval and the approval of the Department of Finance and Personnel, a final decision on the preferred option is expected in October 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048696%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243284","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243284"}},{"id":"243283","reference":"AQW 48695/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-10","answerBy":"2015-09-25","answered":"2015-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the Northern Ireland Investment Fund.","answerText":"A feasibility study carried out by consultants Deloitte into the proposed Northern Ireland Investment Fund has now concluded.\n\nMy officials are currently considering the way forward in liaison with European Investment Bank officials. The work to develop specific Fund proposals is technically complex and until this work concludes, I cannot provide any further detail.","answerHtml":"A feasibility study carried out by consultants Deloitte into the proposed Northern Ireland Investment Fund has now concluded.
My officials are currently considering the way forward in liaison with European Investment Bank officials. The work to develop specific Fund proposals is technically complex and until this work concludes, I cannot provide any further detail.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048695%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243283","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243283"}},{"id":"243276","reference":"AQW 48693/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-10","answerBy":"2015-09-25","answered":"2015-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the selection criteria or scoring mechanisms which have been established for projects making applications to the Rural Development Fund 2014-2020, following its approval by the European Commission.","answerText":"Officials in my Department are currently developing application procedures and relevant selection criteria for each scheme and measure recently approved by the EU Commission. They have been and will continue to engage with the Monitoring Committee and Stakeholders on the application procedures and selection criteria. When the appropriate approvals are in place my Department will make clear the application procedure and selection criteria for each scheme and measure being funded through the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.","answerHtml":"Officials in my Department are currently developing application procedures and relevant selection criteria for each scheme and measure recently approved by the EU Commission. They have been and will continue to engage with the Monitoring Committee and Stakeholders on the application procedures and selection criteria. When the appropriate approvals are in place my Department will make clear the application procedure and selection criteria for each scheme and measure being funded through the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048693%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243276"}},{"id":"243275","reference":"AQW 48692/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-10","answerBy":"2015-09-25","answered":"2015-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister (i) for an update on the development of the 2014-2017 Child Poverty Strategy; and (ii) to detail the timescale for the publication of the strategy.","answerText":"Significant work has been undertaken, across departments, since the publication of the Executive’s first Child Poverty Strategy. Much has been documented in Annual Reports and a review of the Strategy was conducted last year. The proposed revised Child Poverty Strategy (2014-17) has also been informed by considerable work including research, the development of a Child Poverty Outcomes Framework; and public consultation.\n\nOur vision is that no child here is disadvantaged by poverty or deprivation. We aim to reduce the number of children in poverty and deprivation and reduce the impact on children.\n\nThe revised strategy will contain actions focused on four high level outcomes; that:\n\nFamilies experience economic well being;\n\nChildren in poverty learn and achieve;\n\nChildren in poverty are healthy; and\n\nChildren in poverty live in safe, secure and stable environments.\n\nThe revised Strategy sets out not only the actions we plan to take but also a new approach to our efforts to tackling child poverty, which will allow us to better assess performance and focus on the outcomes that we intend to achieve.\n\nThe revised Child Poverty Strategy will be published following Executive agreement and after laying in the Assembly.","answerHtml":"Significant work has been undertaken, across departments, since the publication of the Executive’s first Child Poverty Strategy. Much has been documented in Annual Reports and a review of the Strategy was conducted last year. The proposed revised Child Poverty Strategy (2014-17) has also been informed by considerable work including research, the development of a Child Poverty Outcomes Framework; and public consultation.
Our vision is that no child here is disadvantaged by poverty or deprivation. We aim to reduce the number of children in poverty and deprivation and reduce the impact on children.
The revised strategy will contain actions focused on four high level outcomes; that:
Families experience economic well being;
Children in poverty learn and achieve;
Children in poverty are healthy; and
Children in poverty live in safe, secure and stable environments.
The revised Strategy sets out not only the actions we plan to take but also a new approach to our efforts to tackling child poverty, which will allow us to better assess performance and focus on the outcomes that we intend to achieve.
The revised Child Poverty Strategy will be published following Executive agreement and after laying in the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048692%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243275"}},{"id":"243274","reference":"AQW 48691/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-10","answerBy":"2015-09-25","answered":"2015-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on the delivery of Rural Development money, following the European Commission's approval of the Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020.","answerText":"European Commission approval of our Rural Development Programme paves the way for up to £623m in funding to become available for improving farming and agri-food businesses, protecting our environment and supporting rural development projects across the north of Ireland.\n\nI have allocated £261million to support the competitiveness of our agri-food industry in the north, £245.2 million to support schemes that protect our rural environment and £80 million to develop our rural economies to enable them to thrive and prosper. Up to £37.2 million has been allocated to Technical Assistance to support the implementation and delivery of the Programme.\n\nThe Programme will be funded with a European contribution of approximately £186.5 million and match funding from DARD’s own budget to maximise the drawdown of EU funds available. Despite the significant financial pressures facing my Department, this will be a high priority for me.\n\nThe agreement secured with the Executive will provide additional funding of up to £250m to fund the proposed ‘Farm Business Improvement Scheme’ requested by the Agri-Food Strategy Board to deliver on the aims and objectives in the Board’s Going for Growth.\n\nAll proposed budgets will be subject to the necessary business case approvals, industry uptake, delivery considerations and approval of bids made to DFP for the necessary additional funds.\n\nMy officials are finalising work for the various schemes within the Programme in order to start to open the new schemes when the necessary approvals are in place.\n\nThe first phase of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme is expected to open later this year. This will include the establishment of Business Development Groups and training for farmers including farm safety and business planning, with the other schemes to follow in a co-ordinated manner.\n\nLocal action Groups and Councils are working to submit interim rural development strategies and community plans.\n\nForestry schemes are also expected to open this autumn in readiness for the 2015/16 tree planting season.","answerHtml":"European Commission approval of our Rural Development Programme paves the way for up to £623m in funding to become available for improving farming and agri-food businesses, protecting our environment and supporting rural development projects across the north of Ireland.
I have allocated £261million to support the competitiveness of our agri-food industry in the north, £245.2 million to support schemes that protect our rural environment and £80 million to develop our rural economies to enable them to thrive and prosper. Up to £37.2 million has been allocated to Technical Assistance to support the implementation and delivery of the Programme.
The Programme will be funded with a European contribution of approximately £186.5 million and match funding from DARD’s own budget to maximise the drawdown of EU funds available. Despite the significant financial pressures facing my Department, this will be a high priority for me.
The agreement secured with the Executive will provide additional funding of up to £250m to fund the proposed ‘Farm Business Improvement Scheme’ requested by the Agri-Food Strategy Board to deliver on the aims and objectives in the Board’s Going for Growth.
All proposed budgets will be subject to the necessary business case approvals, industry uptake, delivery considerations and approval of bids made to DFP for the necessary additional funds.
My officials are finalising work for the various schemes within the Programme in order to start to open the new schemes when the necessary approvals are in place.
The first phase of the Farm Business Improvement Scheme is expected to open later this year. This will include the establishment of Business Development Groups and training for farmers including farm safety and business planning, with the other schemes to follow in a co-ordinated manner.
Local action Groups and Councils are working to submit interim rural development strategies and community plans.
Forestry schemes are also expected to open this autumn in readiness for the 2015/16 tree planting season.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048691%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243274","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243274"}},{"id":"243221","reference":"AQW 48654/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-09","answerBy":"2015-09-24","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department ensures (i) the effective administration of Direct Payments by Health and Social Care Trusts; and (ii) that Health and Social Care Trusts keep the administration of payments under review.","answerText":"My Department issued the following overarching guidance to Health and Social Care (HSC) Board and Trusts in order to assist the HSC in implementation and the administration of an effective direct payment scheme. This guidance can be accessed via the attached link:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf.\n\nIn addition, my Department issued further guidance on accounting and monitoring requirements for the administration of Direct Payments. This provides both the HSC and the Direct Payment recipient with detailed direction on their respective financial responsibilities, see link attached http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/eccu3-09.pdf.","answerHtml":"My Department issued the following overarching guidance to Health and Social Care (HSC) Board and Trusts in order to assist the HSC in implementation and the administration of an effective direct payment scheme. This guidance can be accessed via the attached link:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf.
In addition, my Department issued further guidance on accounting and monitoring requirements for the administration of Direct Payments. This provides both the HSC and the Direct Payment recipient with detailed direction on their respective financial responsibilities, see link attached http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/eccu3-09.pdf.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048654%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243221"}},{"id":"243220","reference":"AQW 48653/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-09","answerBy":"2015-09-24","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for his assessment of the (i) Childcare Fund within the Delivering Social Change Framework; (ii) initial targets for this fund; and to date (iii) whether these targets have been met.","answerText":"As part of the Programme for Government, we committed to publish and implement a Childcare Strategy with key actions to provide integrated and affordable childcare. In the 2011-2015 Budget, £12 million was ring-fenced to support the development of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy. With the development of the first phase of the Strategy in 2013, it was agreed by the Childcare Strategy Programme Board that the £12 million fund would be used strategically to resource the Key First Actions. Of the £12 million childcare fund, £4.7 million has been allocated and £3.4 million spent. The balance will continue to be used to resource the Key First Actions of the Childcare Strategy.\n\nThe 15 Key First Actions were designed to meet the main areas of childcare need identified through research and consultation. The School Age Childcare Grant Scheme has been implemented from March 2014 and is the most ambitious action of the first phase of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy. Its exact funding requirements depend upon the quality and quantity of the applications submitted and how current and future successful projects progress. The Scheme is ongoing having created or sustained 2,200 childcare places and a further call for grant applications is expected to be made in November 2015.\n\nThe Executive Childcare Fund is not the budget for the full Childcare Strategy. The budget for the Childcare Strategy will be determined on the basis of the final version of the Strategy, to be developed post consultation.","answerHtml":"As part of the Programme for Government, we committed to publish and implement a Childcare Strategy with key actions to provide integrated and affordable childcare. In the 2011-2015 Budget, £12 million was ring-fenced to support the development of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy. With the development of the first phase of the Strategy in 2013, it was agreed by the Childcare Strategy Programme Board that the £12 million fund would be used strategically to resource the Key First Actions. Of the £12 million childcare fund, £4.7 million has been allocated and £3.4 million spent. The balance will continue to be used to resource the Key First Actions of the Childcare Strategy.
The 15 Key First Actions were designed to meet the main areas of childcare need identified through research and consultation. The School Age Childcare Grant Scheme has been implemented from March 2014 and is the most ambitious action of the first phase of the Executive’s Childcare Strategy. Its exact funding requirements depend upon the quality and quantity of the applications submitted and how current and future successful projects progress. The Scheme is ongoing having created or sustained 2,200 childcare places and a further call for grant applications is expected to be made in November 2015.
The Executive Childcare Fund is not the budget for the full Childcare Strategy. The budget for the Childcare Strategy will be determined on the basis of the final version of the Strategy, to be developed post consultation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048653%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243220"}},{"id":"243084","reference":"AQW 48586/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-08","answerBy":"2015-09-23","answered":"2015-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail what correspondence he has had with Ulster University in respect of support staff who are (i) directly, and (ii) indirectly connected with courses affected by the recent announcement of University cuts.","answerText":"While the University’s decision to reduce course, staff and student provision is the inevitable outworking of the Executive’s budget cuts to my Department and the higher education sector, universities are autonomous and responsible for their own course provision and staffing levels.\n\nI did meet with Trade Union representatives earlier this year to discuss the potential job losses and reduced student places across all the higher education institutions.\n\nI have no remit to intervene in these decisions and, therefore, I have not had any specific correspondence with Ulster University in relation to support staff.","answerHtml":"While the University’s decision to reduce course, staff and student provision is the inevitable outworking of the Executive’s budget cuts to my Department and the higher education sector, universities are autonomous and responsible for their own course provision and staffing levels.
I did meet with Trade Union representatives earlier this year to discuss the potential job losses and reduced student places across all the higher education institutions.
I have no remit to intervene in these decisions and, therefore, I have not had any specific correspondence with Ulster University in relation to support staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048586%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243084"}},{"id":"243083","reference":"AQW 48585/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-08","answerBy":"2015-09-23","answered":"2015-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the total number of (i) student places, and (ii) jobs, that have been lost from Ulster University at (i) Coleraine, and (ii) Magee, since May 2011.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information on a campus basis. My officials, therefore, obtained the figures directly from Ulster University. The following is the most up to date information available and compares the position in 2010/11 with 2014/15.\n\nAt Coleraine campus the total number of student places has reduced from 5,420 in 2010/11 to 5,344 in 2014/15. However it is important to note this is a reduction of 76 student places, mainly due to a reduction in part-time numbers, where demand can fluctuate from year to year. Overall, the number of full-time student places at Coleraine has increased by 80 since 2010/11.\n\nEighty-one jobs have been lost at Coleraine campus since May 2011.\n\nAt Magee campus the total number of student places has increased from 4,148 in 2010/11 to 5,096 in 2014/15. This is a total increase in student places of 948 since May 2011 544 of which are full-time.\n\nThirty-two jobs have been lost at Magee campus since May 2011.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information on a campus basis. My officials, therefore, obtained the figures directly from Ulster University. The following is the most up to date information available and compares the position in 2010/11 with 2014/15.
At Coleraine campus the total number of student places has reduced from 5,420 in 2010/11 to 5,344 in 2014/15. However it is important to note this is a reduction of 76 student places, mainly due to a reduction in part-time numbers, where demand can fluctuate from year to year. Overall, the number of full-time student places at Coleraine has increased by 80 since 2010/11.
Eighty-one jobs have been lost at Coleraine campus since May 2011.
At Magee campus the total number of student places has increased from 4,148 in 2010/11 to 5,096 in 2014/15. This is a total increase in student places of 948 since May 2011 544 of which are full-time.
Thirty-two jobs have been lost at Magee campus since May 2011.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048585%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243083"}},{"id":"243081","reference":"AQW 48583/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-08","answerBy":"2015-09-23","answered":"2015-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail what consultation he had with relevant stakeholders prior to the announcement that Ulster University was reducing course, staff and student provision; and to list the stakeholders.","answerText":"On 4 December 2014, my Department published a consultation on the draft spending proposals for 2015-16 in response to the Executive’s draft Budget.\n\nThe consultation outlined the possible impact on a wide range of functions and services across my Department as well as the potential impact on the universities and colleges including a likely reduction in student places and staff numbers.\n\nMy Department received 184 responses to the consultation.\n\nThe consultation documents including a list of respondents can be found at:\n\nhttp://www.delni.gov.uk/index/consultation-zone/del-draft-budget-2015-16.htm","answerHtml":"On 4 December 2014, my Department published a consultation on the draft spending proposals for 2015-16 in response to the Executive’s draft Budget.
The consultation outlined the possible impact on a wide range of functions and services across my Department as well as the potential impact on the universities and colleges including a likely reduction in student places and staff numbers.
My Department received 184 responses to the consultation.
The consultation documents including a list of respondents can be found at:
http://www.delni.gov.uk/index/consultation-zone/del-draft-budget-2015-16.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048583%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243081"}},{"id":"243080","reference":"AQW 48582/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-08","answerBy":"2015-09-23","answered":"2015-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the impact of closing the Modern Languages School at Ulster University Coleraine on (i) the local student economy, (ii) drawing and retaining students to study in Northern Ireland, and (iii) the future of subjects studied with a modern language as a joint degree.","answerText":"(i) Ulster University has announced that it is making a number of changes to course provision in order to manage the budget cuts imposed as a result of the decisions taken by the Northern Ireland Executive. This includes the closure of some courses and the consolidation of others. The University has advised that although the School of Modern Languages is closing at Coleraine, the BSc Hons Psychology and all combinations with Psychology will be moving from the Magee campus and the teaching of these courses will be consolidated at Coleraine. It is too early to comment on how this will affect overall student numbers on the Coleraine campus and, therefore, too early to tell what the impact the changes will have on the local student economy.\n\n(ii) At this stage I have no reason to expect there to be a negative impact on the number of students coming to Northern Ireland to study. The University has an internationalisation strategy and actively recruits students from international markets as well as Europe and Great Britain. I expect the number of students from outside Northern Ireland enrolling at our institutions to continue to increase.\n\n(iii) Ulster University has confirmed that it will no longer be offering modern languages as a component of joint degrees.","answerHtml":"(i) Ulster University has announced that it is making a number of changes to course provision in order to manage the budget cuts imposed as a result of the decisions taken by the Northern Ireland Executive. This includes the closure of some courses and the consolidation of others. The University has advised that although the School of Modern Languages is closing at Coleraine, the BSc Hons Psychology and all combinations with Psychology will be moving from the Magee campus and the teaching of these courses will be consolidated at Coleraine. It is too early to comment on how this will affect overall student numbers on the Coleraine campus and, therefore, too early to tell what the impact the changes will have on the local student economy.
(ii) At this stage I have no reason to expect there to be a negative impact on the number of students coming to Northern Ireland to study. The University has an internationalisation strategy and actively recruits students from international markets as well as Europe and Great Britain. I expect the number of students from outside Northern Ireland enrolling at our institutions to continue to increase.
(iii) Ulster University has confirmed that it will no longer be offering modern languages as a component of joint degrees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048582%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243080"}},{"id":"243079","reference":"AQW 48581/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-08","answerBy":"2015-09-14","answered":"2015-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether his Department has received a HR1 form from Ulster University in respect of the recent announcement of cuts to courses, and the subsequent job losses.","answerText":"I would refer the member to the answer which I provided to this question during Oral Questions on Tuesday September 15th. My department has not received an HR1 Form in respect of Ulster University’s recent announcement of cuts to courses.","answerHtml":"I would refer the member to the answer which I provided to this question during Oral Questions on Tuesday September 15th. My department has not received an HR1 Form in respect of Ulster University’s recent announcement of cuts to courses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048581%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243079","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243079"}},{"id":"242888","reference":"AQW 48478/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-07","answerBy":"2015-09-22","answered":"2015-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of new and established Social Enterprises that have received support through Invest Northern Ireland’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme since its inception, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Invest NI’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) ran from January 2013 until July 2015. During that time 253 new and established groups from the community and voluntary sectors have participated on the programme. The breakdown of groups by Parliamentary Constituency Area (PCA) is as follows:\n\nPCA\tGroups that received SEP support\tPCA\tGroups that received SEP support\nBelfast North\t21\tNorth Antrim\t10\nBelfast South\t24\tFoyle\t17\nBelfast East\t11\tEast Londonderry\t14\nBelfast West\t31\tMid Ulster\t17\nLagan Valley\t13\tFermanagh & South Tyrone\t11\nNorth Down\t6\tNewry & Mourne\t27\nSouth Down\t8\tWest Tyrone\t14\nSouth Antrim\t3\tUpper Bann\t4\nEast Antrim\t16\tStrangford\t6","answerHtml":"Invest NI’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) ran from January 2013 until July 2015. During that time 253 new and established groups from the community and voluntary sectors have participated on the programme. The breakdown of groups by Parliamentary Constituency Area (PCA) is as follows:
| PCA | Groups that received SEP support | PCA | Groups that received SEP support |
| Belfast North | 21 | North Antrim | 10 |
| Belfast South | 24 | Foyle | 17 |
| Belfast East | 11 | East Londonderry | 14 |
| Belfast West | 31 | Mid Ulster | 17 |
| Lagan Valley | 13 | Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 11 |
| North Down | 6 | Newry & Mourne | 27 |
| South Down | 8 | West Tyrone | 14 |
| South Antrim | 3 | Upper Bann | 4 |
| East Antrim | 16 | Strangford | 6 |
Twenty three new and existing social enterprises have received Social Enterprise Employment Grant assistance under The Jobs Fund since the 1st April 2013. The breakdown of groups by Parliamentary Constituency Area (PCA) is as follows:
| PCA | Social Enterprises | PCA | Social Enterprises |
| BELFAST EAST | 1 | LAGAN VALLEY | 3 |
| BELFAST NORTH | 1 | NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 3 |
| BELFAST SOUTH | 4 | NORTH ANTRIM | 1 |
| BELFAST WEST | 2 | NORTH DOWN | 1 |
| EAST ANTRIM | 1 | SOUTH ANTRIM | 3 |
| EAST LONDONDERRY | 1 | UPPER BANN | 1 |
| FOYLE | 1 |
I recognise the importance of the advice sector in delivering modern, quality advice services to support people in Northern Ireland.
It is intended that the new advice strategy “Advising, Supporting, Empowering – a strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services in Northern Ireland 2015-2020” will be published in October. I believe this strategy will contribute to my Department’s continuing support for advice services by guiding delivery of those services in a changing environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048473%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242859","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242859"}},{"id":"242858","reference":"AQW 48472/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-07","answerBy":"2015-09-22","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the number of people who have received Domiciliary Care Packages each year since 2011, in the (a) Northern Health and Social Care Trust; and (b) Western Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on the number of clients receiving domiciliary care services during a survey week each year since 2011 in the Northern and Western Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts is detailed in the table below.\n\nHSC Trust\tClients Receiving Domiciliary Care Services\nduring a survey week in\n2011\t2012\t2013\t2014\nNorthern\t4,231\t4,623\t4,778\t4,760\nWestern\t4,449\t4,215\t4,705\t4,052\n\nSource: CC7b Community Information Return\n\nThis information is published annually in ‘Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland’, which can be found online at the following web address:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/domiciliary-care.htm","answerHtml":"Information on the number of clients receiving domiciliary care services during a survey week each year since 2011 in the Northern and Western Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts is detailed in the table below.
| HSC Trust | Clients Receiving Domiciliary Care Services during a survey week in | |||
| 2011 | 2012 | 2013 | 2014 | |
| Northern | 4,231 | 4,623 | 4,778 | 4,760 |
| Western | 4,449 | 4,215 | 4,705 | 4,052 |
Source: CC7b Community Information Return
This information is published annually in ‘Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland’, which can be found online at the following web address:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/domiciliary-care.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048472%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242858"}},{"id":"242857","reference":"AQW 48471/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-07","answerBy":"2015-09-22","answered":"2015-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the proposed changes to the community Meals on Wheels service in the Western Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Western HSC Trust is in the process of developing new contracting arrangements for its community meals service in consultation with service providers and with clients. The Trust’s Community Meals Steering Group intends to present a new service specification for the provision of a community meals service to the Trust Board for consideration before the end of the year.","answerHtml":"The Western HSC Trust is in the process of developing new contracting arrangements for its community meals service in consultation with service providers and with clients. The Trust’s Community Meals Steering Group intends to present a new service specification for the provision of a community meals service to the Trust Board for consideration before the end of the year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048471%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242857"}},{"id":"242789","reference":"AQW 48454/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-04","answerBy":"2015-09-21","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current accessibility to palliative care for patients living with a terminal illness, other than cancer.","answerText":"‘Living Matters:Dying Matters’, my Department’s palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, was published in March 2010 with a vision that any person with an advanced, non-curative condition is supported to live well and die well, irrespective of their condition or care setting. This included improved access to care and support services for people living with a terminal illness and their families. Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations.\n\nThe Strategy is also supported by the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care (TYPELC) programme, currently being delivered in partnership between the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and Marie Curie. The aim of the programme is to improve the design and delivery of co-ordinated services and enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their preferred place of care, thereby improving access to and the quality of palliative and end of life care.\n\nAreas being considered as part of the TYPELC programme include support for patients and carers, training for healthcare providers, enhanced access to care services at home, redesign of day hospice services and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.\n\nPlanning of care for people with palliative care needs has also been supported by the development of the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS) to identify people who may be in the last year of life so that their needs can be appropriately assessed and managed.\n\nThere is strong partnership working between the HSCB, PHA, HSC Trusts and community and voluntary sectors in the provision of palliative care services. Recently, the HSCB and PHA further invested in an enhanced palliative care rapid response service. This is a partnership between Marie Curie palliative care nurses and local GP out of hours services to provide response to calls for care and assistance in order to support care at home and avoid unnecessary transfer to hospital.\n\nCo-working between condition specific services, such as those for people with MS and Parkinson’s Disease, and palliative care specialists is already in place. Current proposals as part of TYPELC for the re-design of day hospice services will strengthen these arrangements.\n\nThe Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has undertaken a review of the implementation of the Living Matters:Dying Matters Strategy to assess progress against the recommendations in the Strategy’s action plan. My Department will consider the findings and any recommendations of the review report when this is published.","answerHtml":"‘Living Matters:Dying Matters’, my Department’s palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, was published in March 2010 with a vision that any person with an advanced, non-curative condition is supported to live well and die well, irrespective of their condition or care setting. This included improved access to care and support services for people living with a terminal illness and their families. Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations.
The Strategy is also supported by the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care (TYPELC) programme, currently being delivered in partnership between the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and Marie Curie. The aim of the programme is to improve the design and delivery of co-ordinated services and enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their preferred place of care, thereby improving access to and the quality of palliative and end of life care.
Areas being considered as part of the TYPELC programme include support for patients and carers, training for healthcare providers, enhanced access to care services at home, redesign of day hospice services and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.
Planning of care for people with palliative care needs has also been supported by the development of the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS) to identify people who may be in the last year of life so that their needs can be appropriately assessed and managed.
There is strong partnership working between the HSCB, PHA, HSC Trusts and community and voluntary sectors in the provision of palliative care services. Recently, the HSCB and PHA further invested in an enhanced palliative care rapid response service. This is a partnership between Marie Curie palliative care nurses and local GP out of hours services to provide response to calls for care and assistance in order to support care at home and avoid unnecessary transfer to hospital.
Co-working between condition specific services, such as those for people with MS and Parkinson’s Disease, and palliative care specialists is already in place. Current proposals as part of TYPELC for the re-design of day hospice services will strengthen these arrangements.
The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has undertaken a review of the implementation of the Living Matters:Dying Matters Strategy to assess progress against the recommendations in the Strategy’s action plan. My Department will consider the findings and any recommendations of the review report when this is published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048454%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242789"}},{"id":"242788","reference":"AQW 48453/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-04","answerBy":"2015-09-21","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he will update the current Living Matters, Dying Matters palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, so that provision is increased for everyone with a terminal illness.","answerText":"‘Living Matters:Dying Matters’, my Department’s palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, was published in March 2010 with a vision that any person with an advanced, non-curative condition is supported to live well and die well, irrespective of their condition or care setting. This included improved access to care and support services for people living with a terminal illness and their families. Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations.\n\nThe Strategy is also supported by the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care (TYPELC) programme, currently being delivered in partnership between the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and Marie Curie. The aim of the programme is to improve the design and delivery of co-ordinated services and enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their preferred place of care, thereby improving access to and the quality of palliative and end of life care.\n\nAreas being considered as part of the TYPELC programme include support for patients and carers, training for healthcare providers, enhanced access to care services at home, redesign of day hospice services and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.\n\nPlanning of care for people with palliative care needs has also been supported by the development of the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS) to identify people who may be in the last year of life so that their needs can be appropriately assessed and managed.\n\nThere is strong partnership working between the HSCB, PHA, HSC Trusts and community and voluntary sectors in the provision of palliative care services. Recently, the HSCB and PHA further invested in an enhanced palliative care rapid response service. This is a partnership between Marie Curie palliative care nurses and local GP out of hours services to provide response to calls for care and assistance in order to support care at home and avoid unnecessary transfer to hospital.\n\nCo-working between condition specific services, such as those for people with MS and Parkinson’s Disease, and palliative care specialists is already in place. Current proposals as part of TYPELC for the re-design of day hospice services will strengthen these arrangements.\n\nThe Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has undertaken a review of the implementation of the Living Matters:Dying Matters Strategy to assess progress against the recommendations in the Strategy’s action plan. My Department will consider the findings and any recommendations of the review report when this is published.","answerHtml":"‘Living Matters:Dying Matters’, my Department’s palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, was published in March 2010 with a vision that any person with an advanced, non-curative condition is supported to live well and die well, irrespective of their condition or care setting. This included improved access to care and support services for people living with a terminal illness and their families. Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations.
The Strategy is also supported by the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care (TYPELC) programme, currently being delivered in partnership between the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and Marie Curie. The aim of the programme is to improve the design and delivery of co-ordinated services and enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their preferred place of care, thereby improving access to and the quality of palliative and end of life care.
Areas being considered as part of the TYPELC programme include support for patients and carers, training for healthcare providers, enhanced access to care services at home, redesign of day hospice services and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.
Planning of care for people with palliative care needs has also been supported by the development of the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS) to identify people who may be in the last year of life so that their needs can be appropriately assessed and managed.
There is strong partnership working between the HSCB, PHA, HSC Trusts and community and voluntary sectors in the provision of palliative care services. Recently, the HSCB and PHA further invested in an enhanced palliative care rapid response service. This is a partnership between Marie Curie palliative care nurses and local GP out of hours services to provide response to calls for care and assistance in order to support care at home and avoid unnecessary transfer to hospital.
Co-working between condition specific services, such as those for people with MS and Parkinson’s Disease, and palliative care specialists is already in place. Current proposals as part of TYPELC for the re-design of day hospice services will strengthen these arrangements.
The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has undertaken a review of the implementation of the Living Matters:Dying Matters Strategy to assess progress against the recommendations in the Strategy’s action plan. My Department will consider the findings and any recommendations of the review report when this is published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048453%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242788"}},{"id":"242787","reference":"AQW 48452/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-04","answerBy":"2015-09-21","answered":"2015-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he plans to increase access to palliative care for anyone who needs it; including individuals suffering from multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease and acute strokes.","answerText":"‘Living Matters:Dying Matters’, my Department’s palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, was published in March 2010 with a vision that any person with an advanced, non-curative condition is supported to live well and die well, irrespective of their condition or care setting. This included improved access to care and support services for people living with a terminal illness and their families. Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations.\n\nThe Strategy is also supported by the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care (TYPELC) programme, currently being delivered in partnership between the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and Marie Curie. The aim of the programme is to improve the design and delivery of co-ordinated services and enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their preferred place of care, thereby improving access to and the quality of palliative and end of life care.\n\nAreas being considered as part of the TYPELC programme include support for patients and carers, training for healthcare providers, enhanced access to care services at home, redesign of day hospice services and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.\n\nPlanning of care for people with palliative care needs has also been supported by the development of the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS) to identify people who may be in the last year of life so that their needs can be appropriately assessed and managed.\n\nThere is strong partnership working between the HSCB, PHA, HSC Trusts and community and voluntary sectors in the provision of palliative care services. Recently, the HSCB and PHA further invested in an enhanced palliative care rapid response service. This is a partnership between Marie Curie palliative care nurses and local GP out of hours services to provide response to calls for care and assistance in order to support care at home and avoid unnecessary transfer to hospital.\n\nCo-working between condition specific services, such as those for people with MS and Parkinson’s Disease, and palliative care specialists is already in place. Current proposals as part of TYPELC for the re-design of day hospice services will strengthen these arrangements.\n\nThe Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has undertaken a review of the implementation of the Living Matters:Dying Matters Strategy to assess progress against the recommendations in the Strategy’s action plan. My Department will consider the findings and any recommendations of the review report when this is published.","answerHtml":"‘Living Matters:Dying Matters’, my Department’s palliative and end of life care strategy for adults, was published in March 2010 with a vision that any person with an advanced, non-curative condition is supported to live well and die well, irrespective of their condition or care setting. This included improved access to care and support services for people living with a terminal illness and their families. Significant progress has been made in the implementation of the Strategy’s recommendations.
The Strategy is also supported by the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care (TYPELC) programme, currently being delivered in partnership between the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), Public Health Agency (PHA) and Marie Curie. The aim of the programme is to improve the design and delivery of co-ordinated services and enable people with palliative and end of life care needs to have choice in their preferred place of care, thereby improving access to and the quality of palliative and end of life care.
Areas being considered as part of the TYPELC programme include support for patients and carers, training for healthcare providers, enhanced access to care services at home, redesign of day hospice services and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.
Planning of care for people with palliative care needs has also been supported by the development of the End of Life Care Operational System (ELCOS) to identify people who may be in the last year of life so that their needs can be appropriately assessed and managed.
There is strong partnership working between the HSCB, PHA, HSC Trusts and community and voluntary sectors in the provision of palliative care services. Recently, the HSCB and PHA further invested in an enhanced palliative care rapid response service. This is a partnership between Marie Curie palliative care nurses and local GP out of hours services to provide response to calls for care and assistance in order to support care at home and avoid unnecessary transfer to hospital.
Co-working between condition specific services, such as those for people with MS and Parkinson’s Disease, and palliative care specialists is already in place. Current proposals as part of TYPELC for the re-design of day hospice services will strengthen these arrangements.
The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority has undertaken a review of the implementation of the Living Matters:Dying Matters Strategy to assess progress against the recommendations in the Strategy’s action plan. My Department will consider the findings and any recommendations of the review report when this is published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048452%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242787","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242787"}},{"id":"242786","reference":"AQW 48451/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-04","answerBy":"2015-09-21","answered":"2015-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the steps being taken to implement the recommendations outlined in the Commissioner for Public Appointment’s January 2014 report Under-Representation and Lack of Diversity in Public Appointments in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The recommendations in the Commissioner for Public Appointment’s 2014 report on diversity were analysed at the time, and many have since been implemented. The cross-departmental Public Appointments Forum has adopted a role in addressing issues of diversity and under-representation. An external academic member has been appointed to provide a challenge function. The NI Statistical and Research Agency has provided analysis of under-representation and multiple appointments. NISRA and the Forum have developed a new monitoring form for applicants which will permit a more refined analysis in future of candidates’ backgrounds and success rates at different stages of the appointment process.\n\nSince March 2015, all public appointment vacancies across government are now advertised on NI Direct, the official website for government services, which will permit consistency in disseminating knowledge of appointment opportunities to a wider audience. The appointment plan for each public appointment competition now includes a section on diversity, which is approved by the relevant Minister. Outreach measures have been undertaken, including greater use of welcoming statements and liaison with key stakeholders across the range of under-represented sectors, in order to encourage a wider spectrum of applications.\n\nIt is our intention to bring more of the Commissioner’s recommendations, notably on public policy on diversity and on measurable goals, for future Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"The recommendations in the Commissioner for Public Appointment’s 2014 report on diversity were analysed at the time, and many have since been implemented. The cross-departmental Public Appointments Forum has adopted a role in addressing issues of diversity and under-representation. An external academic member has been appointed to provide a challenge function. The NI Statistical and Research Agency has provided analysis of under-representation and multiple appointments. NISRA and the Forum have developed a new monitoring form for applicants which will permit a more refined analysis in future of candidates’ backgrounds and success rates at different stages of the appointment process.
Since March 2015, all public appointment vacancies across government are now advertised on NI Direct, the official website for government services, which will permit consistency in disseminating knowledge of appointment opportunities to a wider audience. The appointment plan for each public appointment competition now includes a section on diversity, which is approved by the relevant Minister. Outreach measures have been undertaken, including greater use of welcoming statements and liaison with key stakeholders across the range of under-represented sectors, in order to encourage a wider spectrum of applications.
It is our intention to bring more of the Commissioner’s recommendations, notably on public policy on diversity and on measurable goals, for future Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048451%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242786","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242786"}},{"id":"242649","reference":"AQW 48414/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-03","answerBy":"2015-09-18","answered":"2015-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on proposals for the development of Portrush Harbour.","answerText":"As advised in June this year (AQW 47882 11-15 refers) my Department identified that an additional piece of work was required to determine if a further development option for the regeneration of Portrush harbour could be identified. This work has now commenced and is due to be completed in the next couple of months.\n\nWhen this further development option is identified it will allow a full economic appraisal of the options for the development of the harbour to be carried out along with a Masterplan to plan for the development of the land side of the harbour.","answerHtml":"As advised in June this year (AQW 47882 11-15 refers) my Department identified that an additional piece of work was required to determine if a further development option for the regeneration of Portrush harbour could be identified. This work has now commenced and is due to be completed in the next couple of months.
When this further development option is identified it will allow a full economic appraisal of the options for the development of the harbour to be carried out along with a Masterplan to plan for the development of the land side of the harbour.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048414%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242649"}},{"id":"242642","reference":"AQW 48413/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-03","answerBy":"2015-09-18","answered":"2015-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the stakeholders he has met in relation to the development of opportunities for growth and investment for Portrush Harbour and Port.","answerText":"As Minister for Social Development I have met Ministerial colleagues from the Department for Regional Development, Department of Environment and Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment who form a Ministerial group chaired by DSD to oversee the regeneration of Portrush. I have also met with Coleraine Borough Council Officials.","answerHtml":"As Minister for Social Development I have met Ministerial colleagues from the Department for Regional Development, Department of Environment and Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment who form a Ministerial group chaired by DSD to oversee the regeneration of Portrush. I have also met with Coleraine Borough Council Officials.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048413%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242642","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242642"}},{"id":"242611","reference":"AQW 48404/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-03","answerBy":"2015-09-18","answered":"2015-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the communication she has had with the Financial Secretary to the Treasury regarding a reduced rate of VAT for the local hospitality industry.","answerText":"I wrote to David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, on 15 June 2015 calling on the Government to reconsider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response dated 27 July 2015, Mr Gauke stated that the government currently has no plans to introduce a reduced rate of VAT for tourism.","answerHtml":"I wrote to David Gauke MP, Financial Secretary to the Treasury, on 15 June 2015 calling on the Government to reconsider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response dated 27 July 2015, Mr Gauke stated that the government currently has no plans to introduce a reduced rate of VAT for tourism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048404%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242611","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242611"}},{"id":"242606","reference":"AQW 48403/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-03","answerBy":"2015-09-18","answered":"2015-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for a breakdown of the Sports Matters Monitoring Group by (i) age; and (ii) gender.","answerText":"Membership of the Sport Matters Monitoring Group is set out in the Terms of Reference for the Group. The Terms of Reference states that the Group will be chaired by the Minister and members will include: -\n\nSenior officials from Government Departments - DCAL, DHSSPS, DE, DSD, DEL and DARD;\n\nSenior representatives from Sport NI, the NI Sports Forum and the NI Environment Agency; and\n\na representative of the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives.\n\nThe Terms of Reference outlines the role of the Sport Matters Monitoring Group and does not impose age or gender criteria on the membership of that Group. In addition, organisations can choose, with agreement of the Chair, to send a different representative to meetings if required.\n\nAs DCAL does not ask members to declare their age, this information is not held by the Department. As such, I am unable to provide you with the information you seek in this regard.\n\nIn addition, while the gender make up of the Group does vary between meetings there is no requirement to formally record this. You may wish to refer to the Terms of Reference for, and minutes of meetings held by, the Sport Matters Monitoring Group which are publically available on the DCAL website and can be accessed via the following link:\n\nhttp://www.dcalni.gov.uk/index/sport/sport_matters/sport_matters_monitoring_group.htm","answerHtml":"Membership of the Sport Matters Monitoring Group is set out in the Terms of Reference for the Group. The Terms of Reference states that the Group will be chaired by the Minister and members will include: -
Senior officials from Government Departments - DCAL, DHSSPS, DE, DSD, DEL and DARD;
Senior representatives from Sport NI, the NI Sports Forum and the NI Environment Agency; and
a representative of the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives.
The Terms of Reference outlines the role of the Sport Matters Monitoring Group and does not impose age or gender criteria on the membership of that Group. In addition, organisations can choose, with agreement of the Chair, to send a different representative to meetings if required.
As DCAL does not ask members to declare their age, this information is not held by the Department. As such, I am unable to provide you with the information you seek in this regard.
In addition, while the gender make up of the Group does vary between meetings there is no requirement to formally record this. You may wish to refer to the Terms of Reference for, and minutes of meetings held by, the Sport Matters Monitoring Group which are publically available on the DCAL website and can be accessed via the following link:
http://www.dcalni.gov.uk/index/sport/sport_matters/sport_matters_monitoring_group.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048403%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242606","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242606"}},{"id":"242581","reference":"AQO 8646/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-03","answerBy":"2015-09-15","answered":"2015-09-15","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the submission of a business case regarding proposals to establish a Veterinary School at Ulster University.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"The Ulster University first proposed establishing a veterinary school in 2013 and commenced the preparation of a business case to support it. However, a full business case has not been presented to my Department. There have been no discussions with the university on this matter since June 2014. Veterinary science is one of the highest-cost courses to fund, and there is no shortfall forecast in the number of vets until at least 2020. In the current financial climate, when funding for higher education institutions has been reduced and undergraduate places withdrawn, it is very unlikely that funding will be made available for veterinary science courses in the short to medium term."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for his response. Will he confirm whether the Ulster University is moving towards establishing centres of excellence in each campus, and that a veterinary school in Coleraine would be a perfect fit for what it is planning?"},{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"In terms of the first aspect of what the Member says, as part of the response to the challenging funding situation, the university has responded in a strategic way by trying to create an identity for each of its campuses. The Coleraine campus has been identified in terms of life and biological sciences. In principle, what the Member says would be consistent with that vision. However, I stress to her the high cost involved in veterinary places. If it was decided to redirect resources in that direction, that would have a disproportionate impact on the provision of other courses. In a crude sense, for every veterinary place you put in place you may have to sacrifice almost two other types of subject places, so we have to be conscious of the emerging needs of our economy. No doubt, universities are also doing that in how they plan and work their way through a challenging situation."},{"speaker":"Mr Ó hOisín","text":"Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-LeasCheann Comhairle. Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire as ucht an fhreagra sin. What discussions may the Minister have had with DARD on the provision of a veterinary school at Ulster University?"},{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"My officials and I have had discussions about that with our counterparts in DARD over the years, although it has not been a live issue on our agenda for the past 12 to 18 months. That reflects the sad financial reality in which we sit. The Member can take from my answer that, while some work has been done in this area, it is not currently being taken forward. In the context of facing cutbacks, an investment of that type is not deemed affordable."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208646%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242581","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-09-15&docID=243273#AQO%208646/11-16","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242581"}},{"id":"242616","reference":"AQO 8617/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-03","answerBy":"2015-09-14","answered":"2015-09-14","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for her assessment of the impact of cuts to Disability Sport NI's funding on the legacy of Northern Ireland's performance at the 2015 Special Olympics World Summer Games.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín (The Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure)","text":"Go raibh maith agat, a Cheann Comhairle. I thank the Member for her question. I can advise Members that the funding allocation to Disability Sport NI has no direct impact on the activities of Special Olympics Ireland, which is a completely separate organisation. I can confirm that, as part of a £2·3 million cross-departmental package, which also included funding from colleagues in OFMDFM, DHSSPS, DSD and DE, DCAL provided £459,000 of core funding to Special Olympics Ireland for the four-year period from 2011-15. The package was extended by a further £545,000 for the 2015-16 period. The funding package has enabled the organisation to expand its activities throughout the North and to extend its reach in providing sports training and competition opportunities for people with intellectual disabilities. It included support for the athletes from here who represented Ireland in this year's Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles. The Special Olympics team had one of the most successful games ever, with athletes from the North making a significant contribution to the medals won at the games. I am delighted to report that the team did exceptionally well, securing 82 medals. I am also proud of the achievements of the 12 athletes from the North, who secured 19 medals, including five gold, nine silver and five bronze."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for her response. I welcome the fact that there will be no direct impact on the Special Olympics. Coming from a successful Olympic town, as Coleraine is, with Sean Campbell winning silver in the recent Special Olympics, I feel that it is important that the Minister acknowledges the part that disabled-bodied people have to play in sport. Does she have any plans to introduce further money into the sector?"},{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín","text":"I thank the Member for her supplementary question. Indeed, Coleraine has a great heritage of Olympians, Paralympians and Special Olympians. There are greater numbers participating in sport generally across the board. There are clear increases there. The answer is yes. At the minute, we are working with colleagues in Sport NI. I recently met Special Olympics Ireland as well. I will have meetings with Disability Sport NI to ensure, particularly when we are looking at the next CSR, that business cases are not only refreshed but try to reflect the increase in participation numbers among athletes. It is really important that we do that, given that, based on their successes in competitions, it is not only about participation but the athletes' achievements, which have been enjoyed by us all."},{"speaker":"Mrs McKevitt","text":"Will the Minister outline how her Department and Sport NI will support athletes preparing for the 2016 Olympics and Paralympics? A bit of investment has been put in, and you can see that through the medals that have been won. However, what further advice and money can her Department give to those preparing for the Olympics?"},{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín","text":"I thank the Member for her question. She will remember the build-up to the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. In particular, the work of the families and the governing bodies ensured that the athletes were able to go over to London and perform. It is that sort of spirit that we are hoping to capture for the 2016 games, but that will not happen on its own without support, particularly from Sport NI to the governing bodies. I know that, as we speak, Sport NI is actively meeting all the local governing bodies about the athletes' performance programme and the other supports that we can give them in preparation for the 2016 games."},{"speaker":"Mrs Overend","text":"It is recognised that the Minister's budget is limited, but is she prepared to reconsider her existing allocations to the disability sports' legacy?"},{"speaker":"Ms Ní Chuilín","text":"We need to look at protections for disability sports, particularly in the arm's-length bodies. As I said in response to Mrs McKevitt, we are working with Sport NI, Disability Sport NI and, indeed, some of the other governing bodies that provide opportunities for people with disabilities."},{"speaker":"","text":"We certainly need to ensure that, if we receive additional moneys, we target those who are in most need."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208617%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242616","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-09-14&docID=243272#AQO%208617/11-16","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242616"}},{"id":"242510","reference":"AQW 48375/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-02","answerBy":"2015-09-17","answered":"2015-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on ongoing work between his Department, Tourism NI and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to review the skills needs of the tourism sector.","answerText":"Following on from the response to AQW 46558/11-15, RSM McClure Watters have now been appointed to undertake the research into the skills needs of the tourism industry.\n\nInitial work to initiate the project is underway and the final report is expected to be completed by the end of February 2016.","answerHtml":"Following on from the response to AQW 46558/11-15, RSM McClure Watters have now been appointed to undertake the research into the skills needs of the tourism industry.
Initial work to initiate the project is underway and the final report is expected to be completed by the end of February 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048375%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242510","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242510"}},{"id":"242502","reference":"AQW 48372/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-02","answerBy":"2015-09-17","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment (i) to detail the set sub-regional level job-related targets for Invest NI; (ii) whether these targets were met for 2014/15, and (iii) whether they are due to be met in 2015/16.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government focuses on job creation for Northern Ireland as a whole and does not include sub-regional targets. As Invest NI’s targets flow from the Programme for Government its job creation targets are also focused on Northern Ireland as a whole.\n\nHowever, in terms of local economic development, Invest NI continues to work closely with councils to support them to develop and grow their local economy. In support of this Invest NI has been named as a statutory partner in the Community Planning process and will actively work with the councils to develop and grow plans for each council area.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Executive’s Programme for Government focuses on job creation for Northern Ireland as a whole and does not include sub-regional targets. As Invest NI’s targets flow from the Programme for Government its job creation targets are also focused on Northern Ireland as a whole.
However, in terms of local economic development, Invest NI continues to work closely with councils to support them to develop and grow their local economy. In support of this Invest NI has been named as a statutory partner in the Community Planning process and will actively work with the councils to develop and grow plans for each council area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048372%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242502","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242502"}},{"id":"242498","reference":"AQW 48369/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-02","answerBy":"2015-09-17","answered":"2015-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what form the Maximising Access in Rural Areas to Grants, Services and Benefits project will take after 2016; and whether there are plans to continue this service.","answerText":"Deloitte and the Public Health Agency, Health Intelligence Team have recently forwarded a comprehensive draft evaluation report on the MARA Project to officials for consideration.\n\nI understand the report contains a very positive overview of the Project and a number of conclusions and issues for consideration. The draft report is currently being reviewed and will be shared with the Project’s Interdepartmental Regional Project Management Forum later this month.\n\nThis Forum has representation from a range of partner Government Departments and provides strategic direction, oversees monitoring and evaluation and advocates for the Project. Therefore their views on the continued need for the MARA Project bearing in mind other similar projects, budgetary issues, the positive nature of the evaluation will be key in informing the future need for MARA and any DARD involvement.\n\nI hope to be able to take a decision on this by the beginning of October.","answerHtml":"Deloitte and the Public Health Agency, Health Intelligence Team have recently forwarded a comprehensive draft evaluation report on the MARA Project to officials for consideration.
I understand the report contains a very positive overview of the Project and a number of conclusions and issues for consideration. The draft report is currently being reviewed and will be shared with the Project’s Interdepartmental Regional Project Management Forum later this month.
This Forum has representation from a range of partner Government Departments and provides strategic direction, oversees monitoring and evaluation and advocates for the Project. Therefore their views on the continued need for the MARA Project bearing in mind other similar projects, budgetary issues, the positive nature of the evaluation will be key in informing the future need for MARA and any DARD involvement.
I hope to be able to take a decision on this by the beginning of October.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048369%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242498","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242498"}},{"id":"242497","reference":"AQW 48368/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-02","answerBy":"2015-09-17","answered":"2015-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of referrals made to Government Agencies and Departments as a result of assessments through the Maximising Access in Rural Areas to Grants, Services and Benefits project, broken down by (i) type of referral; and (ii) constituency.","answerText":"The information requested is contained in the attached table.\n\nReferrals by Constituency\n\nConstituency\tBenefit Entitlement Check\tBoiler Replacement Scheme\tEnergy Saving Homes Scheme\tFlexicare\tHome Safety Check\tLocal Services\tNI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme)\tOccupational Therapy Assessment\tRural Community Transport Partnerships\tSmartpass\tSocial Services\tTotal\nBELFAST NORTH\t1\t\t\t\t1\t1\t\t\t\t\t\t3\nEAST ANTRIM\t472\t108\t174\t\t332\t297\t82\t181\t113\t35\t33\t1827\nEAST DERRY\t700\t202\t241\t101\t488\t353\t138\t168\t228\t51\t43\t2713\nFERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE\t950\t301\t515\t104\t1094\t829\t183\t345\t383\t47\t204\t4955\nFOYLE\t44\t32\t25\t19\t50\t43\t20\t18\t16\t2\t10\t279\nLAGAN VALLEY\t348\t226\t230\t\t702\t115\t143\t257\t272\t48\t18\t2359\nMID ULSTER\t887\t351\t543\t\t942\t439\t114\t317\t199\t93\t76\t3961\nNEWRY AND ARMAGH\t756\t329\t391\t\t722\t221\t154\t196\t178\t41\t42\t3030\nNORTH ANTRIM\t1045\t211\t344\t\t660\t463\t225\t265\t258\t93\t69\t3633\nNORTH DOWN\t44\t7\t19\t\t37\t15\t1\t13\t14\t4\t4\t158\nSOUTH ANTRIM\t503\t237\t157\t\t502\t264\t107\t200\t106\t41\t37\t2154\nSOUTH DOWN\t1184\t602\t778\t\t1155\t700\t260\t365\t495\t102\t49\t5690\nSTRANGFORD\t917\t390\t452\t\t690\t414\t159\t276\t366\t48\t41\t3753\nUPPER BANN\t375\t146\t188\t\t326\t192\t66\t104\t120\t17\t9\t1543\nWEST TYRONE\t763\t335\t370\t225\t884\t304\t105\t263\t303\t82\t82\t3716\nTotal\t8989\t3477\t4427\t449\t8585\t4650\t1757\t2968\t3051\t704\t717\t39774","answerHtml":"The information requested is contained in the attached table.
| Referrals by Constituency | ||||||||||||
| Constituency | Benefit Entitlement Check | Boiler Replacement Scheme | Energy Saving Homes Scheme | Flexicare | Home Safety Check | Local Services | NI Sustainable Energy Programme (Levy Scheme) | Occupational Therapy Assessment | Rural Community Transport Partnerships | Smartpass | Social Services | Total |
| BELFAST NORTH | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | ||||||||
| EAST ANTRIM | 472 | 108 | 174 | 332 | 297 | 82 | 181 | 113 | 35 | 33 | 1827 | |
| EAST DERRY | 700 | 202 | 241 | 101 | 488 | 353 | 138 | 168 | 228 | 51 | 43 | 2713 |
| FERMANAGH AND SOUTH TYRONE | 950 | 301 | 515 | 104 | 1094 | 829 | 183 | 345 | 383 | 47 | 204 | 4955 |
| FOYLE | 44 | 32 | 25 | 19 | 50 | 43 | 20 | 18 | 16 | 2 | 10 | 279 |
| LAGAN VALLEY | 348 | 226 | 230 | 702 | 115 | 143 | 257 | 272 | 48 | 18 | 2359 | |
| MID ULSTER | 887 | 351 | 543 | 942 | 439 | 114 | 317 | 199 | 93 | 76 | 3961 | |
| NEWRY AND ARMAGH | 756 | 329 | 391 | 722 | 221 | 154 | 196 | 178 | 41 | 42 | 3030 | |
| NORTH ANTRIM | 1045 | 211 | 344 | 660 | 463 | 225 | 265 | 258 | 93 | 69 | 3633 | |
| NORTH DOWN | 44 | 7 | 19 | 37 | 15 | 1 | 13 | 14 | 4 | 4 | 158 | |
| SOUTH ANTRIM | 503 | 237 | 157 | 502 | 264 | 107 | 200 | 106 | 41 | 37 | 2154 | |
| SOUTH DOWN | 1184 | 602 | 778 | 1155 | 700 | 260 | 365 | 495 | 102 | 49 | 5690 | |
| STRANGFORD | 917 | 390 | 452 | 690 | 414 | 159 | 276 | 366 | 48 | 41 | 3753 | |
| UPPER BANN | 375 | 146 | 188 | 326 | 192 | 66 | 104 | 120 | 17 | 9 | 1543 | |
| WEST TYRONE | 763 | 335 | 370 | 225 | 884 | 304 | 105 | 263 | 303 | 82 | 82 | 3716 |
| Total | 8989 | 3477 | 4427 | 449 | 8585 | 4650 | 1757 | 2968 | 3051 | 704 | 717 | 39774 |
I am very pleased with how the MARA Project has been delivered and the impact it has made in all rural areas across the north of Ireland in the past 4 years. To date 15,274 households and over 17,250 individuals have had a holistic assessment in respect of entitlements and availability of various grants, benefits and services undertaken generating 40,000 referrals.
Initial findings from the draft independent evaluation report indicate that: all MARA targets and objectives as set out in the Project Business Case were achieved; nine out of 10 clients had at least one referral (with many clients having multiple referrals); more than half of the clients attained a successful outcome from a referral (55.4%); and, overall client ratings of general health and social connectedness significantly increased as a result of the MARA intervention. These are very significant, positive and hopefully sustainable impacts for those involved in the Project.
I expect to be in a position to share the final evaluation report when available later this Autumn.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048367%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242496"}},{"id":"242264","reference":"AQW 48286/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-01","answerBy":"2015-09-16","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the investment by Invest NI in East Londonderry, excluding any investment provided to Ulster University, since 2011.","answerText":"Between 1st April 2011 and 31st March 2015, Invest NI offered assistance worth £10.55 million to businesses located in the East Londonderry constituency area. This support led to a total investment in the area of £44.22 million and does not include assistance offered to the University of Ulster.","answerHtml":"Between 1st April 2011 and 31st March 2015, Invest NI offered assistance worth £10.55 million to businesses located in the East Londonderry constituency area. This support led to a total investment in the area of £44.22 million and does not include assistance offered to the University of Ulster.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048286%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242264","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242264"}},{"id":"242262","reference":"AQW 48285/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-01","answerBy":"2015-09-16","answered":"2015-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of providers who have withdrawn from the Steps 2 Success programme, including their reasons for withdrawal.","answerText":"One supply chain partner withdrew from the Steps 2 Success programme. I have attached a table at Annex A that contains information on the Steps 2 Success Lead Contractors and their supply chain partners at the time of award of contract and details of any changes that have occurred since then, including the reason for any such changes.\n\nAnnex A\n\nLot 1\n\nType of Delivery Organisation\tDelivery Organisations Listed in S2S Tender\tCurrent Delivery Organisations\tDetails of any Changes\n\nLead Contractor\tIngeus UK Ltd\tIngeus UK Ltd\tN/A\n\nEnd to End Supply Chain Partner\tDFPF Ltd (trading as People 1st)\tDFPF Ltd (trading as People 1st)\tN/A\nArmstrong Learning NI Ltd (trading as Armstrong NI)\tArmstrong Learning NI Ltd (trading as Armstrong NI)\tN/A\nSpringvale Training Ltd (trading as Springvale Employment and Learning Solutions)\tSpringvale Training Ltd (trading as Springvale Employment and Learning Solutions)\tN/A\n\nLot 2\n\nType of Delivery Organisation\tDelivery Organisations Listed in S2S Tender\tCurrent Delivery Organisations\tDetails of any Changes\n\nLead Contractor\tEOS\tEOS NI\tChange in company name listed in tender from “EOS” to “EOS NI”. No other material change.\n\nEnd to End Supply Chain Partner\tElle Enterprises\tElle Enterprises\tN/A\nNetwork Personnel (Workspace Group)\tNetwork Personnel (Workspace Group)\tN/A\nRoe Valley Community Education Forum\tRoe Valley Community Education Forum\tN/A\nCustomized Training Services\tCustomized Training Services\tN/A\nUlster Supported Employment Ltd (USEL)\tUlster Supported Employment Ltd (USEL)\tN/A\nNorth City Business\tNorth City Business\tN/A\nRoe Valley Enterprise Ltd\tRoe Valley Enterprise Ltd\tN/A\n\nLot 3\n\nType of Delivery Organisation\tDelivery Organisations Listed in S2S Tender\tCurrent Delivery Organisations\tDetails of any Changes\n\nLead Contractor\tReed in Partnership\tReed in Partnership\tN/A\n\nEnd to End Supply Chain Partner\tGlobal Education (NI) Limited (GEL)\tGlobal Education (NI) Limited (GEL)\tN/A\nNetwork Personnel (trading as Network Recruitment)\tNetwork Personnel (trading as Network Recruitment)\tN/A\nOmagh District Training Consortium (ODTC)\tNetwork Personnel (trading as Network Recruitment)\tReed in Partnership tender listed Omagh District Training Consortium as the Supply Chain Partner for the Omagh Area. During implementation stage, a Variation to Contract was agreed to replace ODTC with Network Personnel. The reason listed on the Variation was that ODTC had decided to withdraw.\nRutledge Training & Recruitment\tRutledge Training & Recruitment\tN/A\nSERC\tSERC\tN/A","answerHtml":"One supply chain partner withdrew from the Steps 2 Success programme. I have attached a table at Annex A that contains information on the Steps 2 Success Lead Contractors and their supply chain partners at the time of award of contract and details of any changes that have occurred since then, including the reason for any such changes.
Annex A
Lot 1
| Type of Delivery Organisation | Delivery Organisations Listed in S2S Tender | Current Delivery Organisations | Details of any Changes |
| Lead Contractor | Ingeus UK Ltd | Ingeus UK Ltd | N/A |
| End to End Supply Chain Partner | DFPF Ltd (trading as People 1st) | DFPF Ltd (trading as People 1st) | N/A |
| Armstrong Learning NI Ltd (trading as Armstrong NI) | Armstrong Learning NI Ltd (trading as Armstrong NI) | N/A | |
| Springvale Training Ltd (trading as Springvale Employment and Learning Solutions) | Springvale Training Ltd (trading as Springvale Employment and Learning Solutions) | N/A |
Lot 2
| Type of Delivery Organisation | Delivery Organisations Listed in S2S Tender | Current Delivery Organisations | Details of any Changes |
| Lead Contractor | EOS | EOS NI | Change in company name listed in tender from “EOS” to “EOS NI”. No other material change. |
| End to End Supply Chain Partner | Elle Enterprises | Elle Enterprises | N/A |
| Network Personnel (Workspace Group) | Network Personnel (Workspace Group) | N/A | |
| Roe Valley Community Education Forum | Roe Valley Community Education Forum | N/A | |
| Customized Training Services | Customized Training Services | N/A | |
| Ulster Supported Employment Ltd (USEL) | Ulster Supported Employment Ltd (USEL) | N/A | |
| North City Business | North City Business | N/A | |
| Roe Valley Enterprise Ltd | Roe Valley Enterprise Ltd | N/A |
Lot 3
| Type of Delivery Organisation | Delivery Organisations Listed in S2S Tender | Current Delivery Organisations | Details of any Changes |
| Lead Contractor | Reed in Partnership | Reed in Partnership | N/A |
| End to End Supply Chain Partner | Global Education (NI) Limited (GEL) | Global Education (NI) Limited (GEL) | N/A |
| Network Personnel (trading as Network Recruitment) | Network Personnel (trading as Network Recruitment) | N/A | |
| Omagh District Training Consortium (ODTC) | Network Personnel (trading as Network Recruitment) | Reed in Partnership tender listed Omagh District Training Consortium as the Supply Chain Partner for the Omagh Area. During implementation stage, a Variation to Contract was agreed to replace ODTC with Network Personnel. The reason listed on the Variation was that ODTC had decided to withdraw. | |
| Rutledge Training & Recruitment | Rutledge Training & Recruitment | N/A | |
| SERC | SERC | N/A |
Delivery of Steps 2 Success commenced on 20 October 2014 and to date no participants aged 18 to 24 have completed the full duration of their attachment period on the programme. People aged 18 – 24 who are in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance for nine months are mandated to participate on Steps 2 Success for a one year period. Steps 2 Success participants who find work continue to receive assistance from their Steps 2 Success contractor for a period of up to one year. A mandatory JSA participant must attend and participate on Steps 2 Success as a requirement of their continuing entitlement to benefit. Sanctions may apply to mandated JSA participants who fail to attend or participate, without good cause, as determined by the Social Security Agency.
The Steps 2 Success programme does not receive funding from the European Social Fund (ESF) and participants leaving the programme before completion will not impact on any ESF targets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048284%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242258"}},{"id":"242256","reference":"AQW 48283/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-01","answerBy":"2015-09-16","answered":"2015-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the relationship between his Department and Steps 2 Success providers, in particular with regards to young people who do not complete the programme.","answerText":"The Department has developed a good working relationship with the three Lead Contractors that are contracted to deliver the Steps 2 Success programme on its behalf. The three Lead Contractors: Ingeus, EOS NI and Reed in Partnership have each invested time, effort and resources into putting in place a delivery infrastructure to meet the Department’s contractual requirements. The Department worked closely with the Lead Contractors during the implementation phase and this laid the groundwork for a positive relationship that has continued now that the programme is being delivered.\n\nThe Department has developed a model of joint working between the Department and the Lead Contractors ensuring regular meetings, with policy, contract management, regional operations and quality improvement staff. This has proved to be a worthwhile process and has helped develop an open and constructive way of working.\n\nThere are no issues in regards to young people not completing the Steps 2 Success programme. People aged 18 – 24 who are in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance for nine months are mandated to participate on Steps 2 Success for a one year period. To date, no participants aged 18 to 24 have completed the full duration of their period on the programme.\n\nA mandatory JSA participant must attend and participate on Steps 2 Success as a requirement of their continuing entitlement to benefit. Sanctions may apply to mandated JSA participants who fail to attend or participate, without good cause, as determined by the Social Security Agency.\n\nSteps 2 Success participants continue to receive assistance from their Contractor for up to one year after starting work.","answerHtml":"The Department has developed a good working relationship with the three Lead Contractors that are contracted to deliver the Steps 2 Success programme on its behalf. The three Lead Contractors: Ingeus, EOS NI and Reed in Partnership have each invested time, effort and resources into putting in place a delivery infrastructure to meet the Department’s contractual requirements. The Department worked closely with the Lead Contractors during the implementation phase and this laid the groundwork for a positive relationship that has continued now that the programme is being delivered.
The Department has developed a model of joint working between the Department and the Lead Contractors ensuring regular meetings, with policy, contract management, regional operations and quality improvement staff. This has proved to be a worthwhile process and has helped develop an open and constructive way of working.
There are no issues in regards to young people not completing the Steps 2 Success programme. People aged 18 – 24 who are in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance for nine months are mandated to participate on Steps 2 Success for a one year period. To date, no participants aged 18 to 24 have completed the full duration of their period on the programme.
A mandatory JSA participant must attend and participate on Steps 2 Success as a requirement of their continuing entitlement to benefit. Sanctions may apply to mandated JSA participants who fail to attend or participate, without good cause, as determined by the Social Security Agency.
Steps 2 Success participants continue to receive assistance from their Contractor for up to one year after starting work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048283%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242256"}},{"id":"242252","reference":"AQW 48282/11-16","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-01","answerBy":"2015-09-16","answered":"2015-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when the new draft Strategy on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse will be published; and whether a meeting of the Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence is planned to coincide with this.","answerText":"While I am aware that the Department of Justice has a number of issues to resolve with the Justice Committee, the strategic development process is now largely complete. In partnership with Minister Ford, I am currently giving active consideration to how my Department can deliver against the aims of the proposed Strategy in this exceptionally difficult financial environment.\n\nAs the Strategy must be endorsed by the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) before publication, an IMG meeting will be arranged as soon as Minister Ford and I are agreed on the route for progression.","answerHtml":"While I am aware that the Department of Justice has a number of issues to resolve with the Justice Committee, the strategic development process is now largely complete. In partnership with Minister Ford, I am currently giving active consideration to how my Department can deliver against the aims of the proposed Strategy in this exceptionally difficult financial environment.
As the Strategy must be endorsed by the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) before publication, an IMG meeting will be arranged as soon as Minister Ford and I are agreed on the route for progression.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048282%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242252","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242252"}},{"id":"242266","reference":"AQO 8599/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-01","answerBy":"2015-09-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the development of transition plans for the transfer of regeneration powers to local government in April 2016.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208599%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=242266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=242266"}},{"id":"243154","reference":"AQO 8599/11-16","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-16","tabled":"2015-09-01","answerBy":"2015-09-08","answered":"2015-09-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the development of transition plans for the transfer of regeneration powers to local government in April 2016.","answerText":"From 1 April 2016 Council will take on responsibility for Urban Regeneration and Community Development. In order to help ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities and functions from the Department to Council my officials have provided each Council with a transition plan setting out DSD’s role and responsibilities between now and 1 April 2016 and the proposed actions that Council should consider.\n\nThis Transition Plan has been prepared by the Department to assist the Council in its budget planning and decision making process for the delivery of urban regeneration and community development activities. It aims to:-\n\nEnsure those projects currently supported by DSD, with funding ending on 31st March 2016, are given clear indications as early as possible whether they will receive further funding;\n\nProvide a pipeline of projects (were requested by the Council) for the new councils to consider to deliver after the RLG transfer date; and\n\nEnsure the new councils meet their statutory duty to have regard for the Urban Regeneration and Community Development Policy Framework.\n\nThe plan sets out the various activities and projects that it currently administers under a range of programmes. It also lists the potential projects which Council may consider funding during 2016-2019. These plans are a work in progress and will evolve as we move closer to April 2016 and decisions are made on the programme and projects that Council agree to progress post Reform of Local Government.","answerHtml":"From 1 April 2016 Council will take on responsibility for Urban Regeneration and Community Development. In order to help ensure a smooth transition of responsibilities and functions from the Department to Council my officials have provided each Council with a transition plan setting out DSD’s role and responsibilities between now and 1 April 2016 and the proposed actions that Council should consider.
This Transition Plan has been prepared by the Department to assist the Council in its budget planning and decision making process for the delivery of urban regeneration and community development activities. It aims to:-
Ensure those projects currently supported by DSD, with funding ending on 31st March 2016, are given clear indications as early as possible whether they will receive further funding;
Provide a pipeline of projects (were requested by the Council) for the new councils to consider to deliver after the RLG transfer date; and
Ensure the new councils meet their statutory duty to have regard for the Urban Regeneration and Community Development Policy Framework.
The plan sets out the various activities and projects that it currently administers under a range of programmes. It also lists the potential projects which Council may consider funding during 2016-2019. These plans are a work in progress and will evolve as we move closer to April 2016 and decisions are made on the programme and projects that Council agree to progress post Reform of Local Government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208599%2F11-16","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=243154","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=243154"}},{"id":"241166","reference":"AQW 48219/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-03","answerBy":"2015-07-22","answered":"2015-07-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development how his Department engages with older people and people with disabilities to identify and meet their transport needs; and what groups he has engaged in East Londonderry since September 2014.","answerText":"My Department engages with a wide range of organisations in relation to transport including the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee. This Committee is comprised of older people and people with disabilities who advise government and others in Northern Ireland on issues that affect the mobility of older people and people with disabilities.\n\nOther organisations engaged include Rural Community Transport Partnerships, Disability Action, Royal National Institute for the Blind, Cedar Foundation, Guide Dogs NI, Barnardos, Action Mental Health, Volunteer Now, Action on Hearing Loss, Autism Network NI, Shopmobility, Epilepsy Action NI and the Omnibus Partnership.\n\nMy Department is also represented on the Vision Strategy Steering Group, Autism Strategy Regional Multi Agency Implementation team, the Health Trust Day Opportunities Project Group, Healthy Ageing Strategic Partnership and the Bamford Action Plan Steering Group.\n\nSince September 2014 in the development of a draft Accessible Transport Strategy 2025 my Department has been engaged with regional organisations representing the interests of older people and people with disabilities. My officials engaged with 31 regional organisations and 12 took up the opportunity to meet with them. Meetings were held at venues across Northern Ireland including Coleraine and Londonderry.","answerHtml":"My Department engages with a wide range of organisations in relation to transport including the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee. This Committee is comprised of older people and people with disabilities who advise government and others in Northern Ireland on issues that affect the mobility of older people and people with disabilities.
Other organisations engaged include Rural Community Transport Partnerships, Disability Action, Royal National Institute for the Blind, Cedar Foundation, Guide Dogs NI, Barnardos, Action Mental Health, Volunteer Now, Action on Hearing Loss, Autism Network NI, Shopmobility, Epilepsy Action NI and the Omnibus Partnership.
My Department is also represented on the Vision Strategy Steering Group, Autism Strategy Regional Multi Agency Implementation team, the Health Trust Day Opportunities Project Group, Healthy Ageing Strategic Partnership and the Bamford Action Plan Steering Group.
Since September 2014 in the development of a draft Accessible Transport Strategy 2025 my Department has been engaged with regional organisations representing the interests of older people and people with disabilities. My officials engaged with 31 regional organisations and 12 took up the opportunity to meet with them. Meetings were held at venues across Northern Ireland including Coleraine and Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048219%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=241166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=241166"}},{"id":"241165","reference":"AQW 48218/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-03","answerBy":"2015-07-22","answered":"2015-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice whether the Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan 2012-14 will be updated within the current Assembly mandate, to tackle crime and fear of crime amongst older people.","answerText":"The Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan arising from the Community Safety Strategy has been updated for 2015-17 and was noted by the Justice Committee in April 2015. A copy of the updated Plan is available on the Department of Justice website by searching for Community Safety Action Plan under the Publications section.\n\nA progress report on the Plan is prepared annually for the Justice Committee.","answerHtml":"The Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan arising from the Community Safety Strategy has been updated for 2015-17 and was noted by the Justice Committee in April 2015. A copy of the updated Plan is available on the Department of Justice website by searching for Community Safety Action Plan under the Publications section.
A progress report on the Plan is prepared annually for the Justice Committee.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048218%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=241165","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=241165"}},{"id":"241151","reference":"AQW 48212/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-03","answerBy":"2015-07-22","answered":"2015-08-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 46752/11-12, to detail the intended timeframe for public consultation on the draft Gender Equality Strategy.","answerText":"As previously stated, the current Gender Equality Strategy will remain in place until the new Strategy is developed and operational.\n\nWork is currently ongoing on the development of a new strategy and it is envisaged that a 12 week public consultation will either take place before the end of 2015 or early 2016.","answerHtml":"As previously stated, the current Gender Equality Strategy will remain in place until the new Strategy is developed and operational.
Work is currently ongoing on the development of a new strategy and it is envisaged that a 12 week public consultation will either take place before the end of 2015 or early 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048212%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=241151","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=241151"}},{"id":"241150","reference":"AQW 48211/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-03","answerBy":"2015-07-22","answered":"2015-09-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 38889/11-15, for an update on the five year plan to establish primary care talking therapies hubs in the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is working with other key partners to develop a Northern Area Emotional Well-being Service. The initial phase of implementation will commence in two areas (Coleraine/Ballymoney and Carrickfergus) in October 2015\n\nThe Western Health and Social Care Trust is currently recruiting staff for the Primary Care Talking Therapy Hubs in both its northern and southern sectors.","answerHtml":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust is working with other key partners to develop a Northern Area Emotional Well-being Service. The initial phase of implementation will commence in two areas (Coleraine/Ballymoney and Carrickfergus) in October 2015
The Western Health and Social Care Trust is currently recruiting staff for the Primary Care Talking Therapy Hubs in both its northern and southern sectors.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048211%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=241150","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=241150"}},{"id":"241149","reference":"AQW 48210/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-03","answerBy":"2015-07-22","answered":"2015-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 47554/11-15, to detail when the outcome of the review of MS Neurological Services will be published.","answerText":"This is a routine internal service commissioning review being carried out by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency to assess current service delivery with the aim of establishing agreed patient pathways. Such routine reviews are not normally published. It is intended that this work will be completed towards the end of 2015 with a view to informing commissioning decisions for 2016/17.","answerHtml":"This is a routine internal service commissioning review being carried out by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency to assess current service delivery with the aim of establishing agreed patient pathways. Such routine reviews are not normally published. It is intended that this work will be completed towards the end of 2015 with a view to informing commissioning decisions for 2016/17.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048210%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=241149","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=241149"}},{"id":"240974","reference":"AQW 48130/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-02","answerBy":"2015-07-21","answered":"2015-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on revenue and capital project funding in the northern zone, through the Social Investment Fund; and to detail the projected timeline for the full implementation of the Social Investment Fund.","answerText":"Six projects are being taken forward in the Northern Zone. They are as follows.\n\nColeraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN) (revenue) and Fuel Poverty (capital) had funding of £0.46 million and £1.83 million respectively, committed in 2014. CRUN has contractors on site.\n\nA Letter of Offer has issued to Community Capacity Hubs (capital) for £1.13 million and to Employment through Education (revenue) for £3.54 million.\n\nCapacity for Health (revenue) and Access to Employment and Health (revenue) are estimated at £1.7 million and £0.8 million respectively. These figures are approximate as both projects are currently going through the internal approvals process.\n\nWe expect that all SIF projects will commence by 2016/17 with associated expenditure likely to run into 2019/20.","answerHtml":"Six projects are being taken forward in the Northern Zone. They are as follows.
Coleraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN) (revenue) and Fuel Poverty (capital) had funding of £0.46 million and £1.83 million respectively, committed in 2014. CRUN has contractors on site.
A Letter of Offer has issued to Community Capacity Hubs (capital) for £1.13 million and to Employment through Education (revenue) for £3.54 million.
Capacity for Health (revenue) and Access to Employment and Health (revenue) are estimated at £1.7 million and £0.8 million respectively. These figures are approximate as both projects are currently going through the internal approvals process.
We expect that all SIF projects will commence by 2016/17 with associated expenditure likely to run into 2019/20.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048130%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240974","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240974"}},{"id":"240972","reference":"AQW 48129/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-02","answerBy":"2015-07-21","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the needs of the community and voluntary sector and local enterprises have been considered with regards to the future of the Shackelton site at Ballykelly.","answerText":"Shackleton was placed on the open market for sale on 30 June 2015. Proposals to purchase the Site must include a Community Benefit Plan which demonstrates how community needs have been identified and will be met as the site is developed. Community benefits will be one of the criteria used to assess proposals to purchase the Site.\n\nIt is hoped that the development of Shackleton, including the relocation of the DARD headquarters, will provide a much needed boost to the economy in the north west.","answerHtml":"Shackleton was placed on the open market for sale on 30 June 2015. Proposals to purchase the Site must include a Community Benefit Plan which demonstrates how community needs have been identified and will be met as the site is developed. Community benefits will be one of the criteria used to assess proposals to purchase the Site.
It is hoped that the development of Shackleton, including the relocation of the DARD headquarters, will provide a much needed boost to the economy in the north west.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048129%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240972","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240972"}},{"id":"240963","reference":"AQW 48128/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-02","answerBy":"2015-07-21","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail (i) how the Social Investment Fund Steering groups were chosen; and (ii) how many members are (a) women; (b) under 30 years of age; and (c) people with disabilities, broken down by Steering Group.","answerText":"On 17 May 2012 Executive Ministers agreed the operation of the Social Investment Fund (SIF), which included the process to form the Steering\n\nGroups across all nine zones.\n\nAs a result it was agreed that Steering Groups would comprise of 14 members, made up of 4 voluntary/community, 4 political, 4 statutory and 2 business representatives.\n\nIn relation to voluntary/community representatives, individuals were invited through an open call, to express interest on being on the group. We considered all nominations received and decisions were made based on the nominee’s level of previous programme experience. Other factors such as evidence of community endorsement for the nomination and geographical spread were also considered.\n\nTo determine political membership, the d’Hondt methodology was applied to the relevant 2011 election results and party leaders were invited to nominate based on their allocation across the zones.\n\nA council representative was also in attendance in each Steering Group.\n\nSteering Groups in each zone were then asked to nominate the remaining statutory and business representatives.\n\nCurrent membership of the Steering Groups is outlined on the OFMDFM website. We do not hold the information on the breakdown of age profile and disability.","answerHtml":"On 17 May 2012 Executive Ministers agreed the operation of the Social Investment Fund (SIF), which included the process to form the Steering
Groups across all nine zones.
As a result it was agreed that Steering Groups would comprise of 14 members, made up of 4 voluntary/community, 4 political, 4 statutory and 2 business representatives.
In relation to voluntary/community representatives, individuals were invited through an open call, to express interest on being on the group. We considered all nominations received and decisions were made based on the nominee’s level of previous programme experience. Other factors such as evidence of community endorsement for the nomination and geographical spread were also considered.
To determine political membership, the d’Hondt methodology was applied to the relevant 2011 election results and party leaders were invited to nominate based on their allocation across the zones.
A council representative was also in attendance in each Steering Group.
Steering Groups in each zone were then asked to nominate the remaining statutory and business representatives.
Current membership of the Steering Groups is outlined on the OFMDFM website. We do not hold the information on the breakdown of age profile and disability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048128%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240963","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240963"}},{"id":"240956","reference":"AQW 48127/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-02","answerBy":"2015-07-21","answered":"2015-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what legislation his Department plans to bring forward by the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"The primary and subordinate legislation my Department plans to bring forward by the end of this Assembly mandate is detailed in the attached table.\n\nTITLE\tPurpose\tPrimary/ Subordinate\nEnvironmental Better Regulation Bill\n(Second stage completed 30 June and now moved to Committee Stage)\tTo provide enabling powers in relation to aspects of environmental regulation to reduce regulatory burden on business, and to make miscellaneous amendments.\tPrimary\nRoad Traffic (Amendment) Bill\n(Consideration stage completed June 2015)\tTo lower the limits on blood alcohol levels for motorists and to introduce other measures to tackle drink driving; and to introduce changes to the regime for learner and novice drivers.\tPrimary\nWaste Management Licensing (Amendment No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo amend exemptions 12, 15, 17, 18, 19, 27 and 45 as provided for by way of Schedule 2 to the Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003\tSubordinate\nWaste Management Licensing (Amendment No. 3) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo amend the to update the prescribed offences element of the Fit and Proper Person test which allows the Department to decide if a person is a fit and proper person to hold a waste management licence.\tSubordinate\nThe Water Framework Directive (Classification, Priority Substances and Shellfish Waters) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016\tTo transpose Directive 2013/39/EU in respect of EU priority substances\tSubordinate\nThe Nitrates Action Programme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo make minor amendments to The Nitrates Action Programme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014\tSubordinate\nThe Private Water Supplies\n(Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo transpose Directive 2013/51/EURATOM in relation to radon levels in drinking water\tSubordinate\nThe Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste)(Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo remove operational plans from the application process for compliance schemes and amend the definition of ‘appropriate person’ to allow delegation of responsibility for signing off reports\tSubordinate\nThe Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc.)Amendment Regulations (NI) 2016\tTo further transpose and to consolidate regulations relating to the Habitats Directive\tSubordinate\nThe Invasive Alien Species penalties and Sanctions Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo transpose the EU regulation to introduce greater controls on tackling Invasive Alien Species\tSubordinate\nThe Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) Amendment Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo add new authorised fuels to the schedule capable of being used in smoke control areas.\tSubordinate\nThe Smoke Control Areas(Exempted Fireplaces)(Amendment No 2) Regulations(NI) 2015\tTo add new exempted fireplaces to the schedule capable of being used in smoke control areas.\tSubordinate\nThe Draft Fluorinated Green House Gases Regs (NI) 2015.\tTranspose EU Regulation to limit NI emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases from certain activities.\tSubordinate\nThe Emissions Performance Standard Monitoring and Enforcement Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo provide for the monitoring and enforcement of the Emissions Performance Standard in NI.\tSubordinate\nMaterials Recovery Facility Regulations (NI) 2016 [Title may change]\tTo introduce a statutory Code of Practice as a condition of a waste management licence or permit in NI.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government Pension Scheme (Amendment No.3) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo make minor technical amendments to the main regulations that introduced the reformed Local Government Pension Scheme (Northern Ireland) from April 2015.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government Pension Scheme (Nursery Assistants) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016\tTo protect accrued pension for nursery assistants employed by Education and Library Boards (now Education Authority) as part of the implementation of JNC collective agreement on job evaluation.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Standing Orders) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo specify governance arrangement provisions to be included in a council’s standing orders; to specify the procedure for call-ins; and to specify the time period in relation to selection of positions of responsibility.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government Reorganisation (Compensation for Diminution of Emoluments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo provide compensation where a person suffers a reduction in remuneration as a result of Local Government Reform.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Community Planning Partners) Order (NI) 2015\tAn Order under section 67 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 specifying certain persons and bodies as statutory Community Planning Partners of councils, and placing a duty on those persons and bodies to, participate in community planning for the district in which it conducts its function and assist the council in fulfilling its community planning duties under Part 10 of the 2014 Act.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Performance Indicators and Standards) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015\tAn Order under Section 89 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 to specify performance indicators and standards for councils providing services in the functions of economic development, planning and waste management.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Domain Names) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo specify a standard format for the domain names of councils.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Rates Support Grant) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo amend the current regulations to provide clarity on the data used by the Department in the Rates Support Grant formula.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Transferred Functions Grant) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016\tTo make substitute regulations to include the DSD funding in the Transferred Functions Grant derived NAV mechanism. Section 27A of the Local Government Finance Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 refers.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Payment to Councillors) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo make substitute regulations to update current councillor allowance provisions.\tSubordinate\nLocal Government (Consequential Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo amend existing legislation made necessary as a consequence of the local government reform legislative programme.\tSubordinate\nThe Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015\tTo ensure the continued protection of shellfish waters following the repeal of the Shellfish Waters Directive in December 2013.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo correct a drafting error in the Planning (Fees) Regulations (NI) 2015\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Use Classes) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2015\tTo amend the definition of a house in multiple occupation (HMO) to maintain consistency with DSD HMO Bill\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Hazardous Substances) (Amendment) Regulations 2015\tTo transpose changes required under the EC’s Seveso III Directive.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (General Development Procedure) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2016\tTo make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Permitted Development) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2016\tTo make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Listed Building) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016\tTo make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Conservation Areas) (Demolition) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016\tTo make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Control of Advertisements) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016\tTo make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures.\tSubordinate\nPlanning (Conservation Areas) (Consultation) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016\tTo make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures.\tSubordinate\nThe Taxi Licensing Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo provide for the regulation and licensing of vehicles which are to be used as taxis\tSubordinate\nThe Taximeter & Maximum Fare Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo introduce mandatory use of taximeters and maximum fares\tSubordinate\nThe Taxi Accessibility Regulations (NI)\tTo introduce standards for wheelchair accessible taxis\tSubordinate\nThe Taxi Operators Licensing (Amendment) Regulations (NI\tConsequential amendments\tSubordinate\nThe Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Offences) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2015\tTo insert a number of new fixed penalties in relation to taxi licensing\tSubordinate\nThe Passenger and Goods Vehicles (Recording Equipment) (Downloading and Retention of Data) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo implement EU Directive 581/2010 to increase the time required to download data from digital tachographs from 56 to 90 days\tSubordinate\nThe Driver and Vehicle Testing Agency Trading Fund Order (Amendment) (NI) 2015\tTo rename the DVTA Trading Fund Order and to extend its scope to include all of DVA.\tSubordinate\nThe Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Offences) (Amendment) Order 2015\tTo insert a new fixed penalty offence for parking on pavement\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo increase the speed threshold at which category T tractors have to comply with higher standards of construction and use.\tSubordinate\nThe Public Service Vehicles (Amendment) Regulations 2015\tTo introduce specific duties for drivers of certain regulated buses and coaches in relation to disabled passengers\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo reduce differences between GB and NI driving licence regulations\tSubordinate\nThe Road Vehicles Lighting (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015\tTo amend the regulations with regard to taxi roof signs\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (Third Party Risks) (Amendment) Regulations (NI)\tTo remove the vehicle insurance check at the time of licensing a vehicle\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (Insurance Requirements)(Immobilisation, Removal and Disposal) Regulations (NI)\tTo provide for the immobilisation and removal of uninsured vehicles found stationary on roads and other public places\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (Insurance Requirements) Regulations (NI)\tTo introduce the offence of being the registered keeper of a vehicle which does not have insurance cover\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (International Motor Insurance Card) (Amendment) Regulations (NI)\tTo remove the vehicle insurance check\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Cycles (Protective Headgear) (Amendment) Regulations\tAs a consequence of the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill to make the wearing of helmets on quads compulsory\tSubordinate\nThe Road Traffic (Graduated Fixed Penalty Points) Order (NI).\nThe Road Traffic Offenders (Appropriate Driving Test) (Amendment) Order (NI).\nThe Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Offences) (Amendment) Order (NI).\nThe Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Amendment) Order (NI).\nThe Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations (NI).\t5 SRs as a consequence of the new drink-driving provisions contained in the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill\tSubordinate\nThe Passenger and Goods Vehicles (Recording Equipment) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016\tEU Regulation to address tachograph fraud by minimising tampering and to make it easier for enforcement officers and road transport operators to obtain more information from the tachograph. It updates the rules around tachographs and provides for a new technical specification for digital tachographs and cards.\tSubordinate\nThe Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) Regulations (NI)\tTo update requirements for approval markings on fire extinguishers fitted to public service vehicles and minibuses\tSubordinate\nThe Public Service Vehicles (Conditions of Fitness, Equipment and Use) (Amendment) Regulations\tTo update requirements for approval markings on fire extinguishers fitted to public service vehicles and minibuses\tSubordinate","answerHtml":"The primary and subordinate legislation my Department plans to bring forward by the end of this Assembly mandate is detailed in the attached table.
| TITLE | Purpose | Primary/ Subordinate |
| Environmental Better Regulation Bill (Second stage completed 30 June and now moved to Committee Stage) | To provide enabling powers in relation to aspects of environmental regulation to reduce regulatory burden on business, and to make miscellaneous amendments. | Primary |
| Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill (Consideration stage completed June 2015) | To lower the limits on blood alcohol levels for motorists and to introduce other measures to tackle drink driving; and to introduce changes to the regime for learner and novice drivers. | Primary |
| Waste Management Licensing (Amendment No. 2) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To amend exemptions 12, 15, 17, 18, 19, 27 and 45 as provided for by way of Schedule 2 to the Waste Management Licensing Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003 | Subordinate |
| Waste Management Licensing (Amendment No. 3) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To amend the to update the prescribed offences element of the Fit and Proper Person test which allows the Department to decide if a person is a fit and proper person to hold a waste management licence. | Subordinate |
| The Water Framework Directive (Classification, Priority Substances and Shellfish Waters) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 | To transpose Directive 2013/39/EU in respect of EU priority substances | Subordinate |
| The Nitrates Action Programme (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To make minor amendments to The Nitrates Action Programme Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2014 | Subordinate |
| The Private Water Supplies (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To transpose Directive 2013/51/EURATOM in relation to radon levels in drinking water | Subordinate |
| The Producer Responsibility Obligations (Packaging Waste)(Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To remove operational plans from the application process for compliance schemes and amend the definition of ‘appropriate person’ to allow delegation of responsibility for signing off reports | Subordinate |
| The Conservation (Natural Habitats, etc.)Amendment Regulations (NI) 2016 | To further transpose and to consolidate regulations relating to the Habitats Directive | Subordinate |
| The Invasive Alien Species penalties and Sanctions Regulations (NI) 2015 | To transpose the EU regulation to introduce greater controls on tackling Invasive Alien Species | Subordinate |
| The Smoke Control Areas (Authorised Fuels) Amendment Regulations (NI) 2015 | To add new authorised fuels to the schedule capable of being used in smoke control areas. | Subordinate |
| The Smoke Control Areas(Exempted Fireplaces)(Amendment No 2) Regulations(NI) 2015 | To add new exempted fireplaces to the schedule capable of being used in smoke control areas. | Subordinate |
| The Draft Fluorinated Green House Gases Regs (NI) 2015. | Transpose EU Regulation to limit NI emissions of fluorinated greenhouse gases from certain activities. | Subordinate |
| The Emissions Performance Standard Monitoring and Enforcement Regulations (NI) 2015 | To provide for the monitoring and enforcement of the Emissions Performance Standard in NI. | Subordinate |
| Materials Recovery Facility Regulations (NI) 2016 [Title may change] | To introduce a statutory Code of Practice as a condition of a waste management licence or permit in NI. | Subordinate |
| Local Government Pension Scheme (Amendment No.3) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To make minor technical amendments to the main regulations that introduced the reformed Local Government Pension Scheme (Northern Ireland) from April 2015. | Subordinate |
| Local Government Pension Scheme (Nursery Assistants) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 | To protect accrued pension for nursery assistants employed by Education and Library Boards (now Education Authority) as part of the implementation of JNC collective agreement on job evaluation. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Standing Orders) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To specify governance arrangement provisions to be included in a council’s standing orders; to specify the procedure for call-ins; and to specify the time period in relation to selection of positions of responsibility. | Subordinate |
| Local Government Reorganisation (Compensation for Diminution of Emoluments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To provide compensation where a person suffers a reduction in remuneration as a result of Local Government Reform. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Community Planning Partners) Order (NI) 2015 | An Order under section 67 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 specifying certain persons and bodies as statutory Community Planning Partners of councils, and placing a duty on those persons and bodies to, participate in community planning for the district in which it conducts its function and assist the council in fulfilling its community planning duties under Part 10 of the 2014 Act. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Performance Indicators and Standards) Order (Northern Ireland) 2015 | An Order under Section 89 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 to specify performance indicators and standards for councils providing services in the functions of economic development, planning and waste management. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Domain Names) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To specify a standard format for the domain names of councils. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Rates Support Grant) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To amend the current regulations to provide clarity on the data used by the Department in the Rates Support Grant formula. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Transferred Functions Grant) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2016 | To make substitute regulations to include the DSD funding in the Transferred Functions Grant derived NAV mechanism. Section 27A of the Local Government Finance Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 refers. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Payment to Councillors) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To make substitute regulations to update current councillor allowance provisions. | Subordinate |
| Local Government (Consequential Amendments) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To amend existing legislation made necessary as a consequence of the local government reform legislative programme. | Subordinate |
| The Water Environment (Water Framework Directive) (Amendment) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2015 | To ensure the continued protection of shellfish waters following the repeal of the Shellfish Waters Directive in December 2013. | Subordinate |
| Planning (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015 | To correct a drafting error in the Planning (Fees) Regulations (NI) 2015 | Subordinate |
| Planning (Use Classes) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2015 | To amend the definition of a house in multiple occupation (HMO) to maintain consistency with DSD HMO Bill | Subordinate |
| Planning (Hazardous Substances) (Amendment) Regulations 2015 | To transpose changes required under the EC’s Seveso III Directive. | Subordinate |
| Planning (General Development Procedure) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2016 | To make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures. | Subordinate |
| Planning (Permitted Development) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2016 | To make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures. | Subordinate |
| Planning (Listed Building) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016 | To make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures. | Subordinate |
| Planning (Conservation Areas) (Demolition) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016 | To make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures. | Subordinate |
| Planning (Control of Advertisements) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016 | To make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures. | Subordinate |
| Planning (Conservation Areas) (Consultation) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016 | To make necessary amendments arising from the new departmental structures. | Subordinate |
| The Taxi Licensing Regulations (NI) 2015 | To provide for the regulation and licensing of vehicles which are to be used as taxis | Subordinate |
| The Taximeter & Maximum Fare Regulations (NI) 2015 | To introduce mandatory use of taximeters and maximum fares | Subordinate |
| The Taxi Accessibility Regulations (NI) | To introduce standards for wheelchair accessible taxis | Subordinate |
| The Taxi Operators Licensing (Amendment) Regulations (NI | Consequential amendments | Subordinate |
| The Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Offences) (Amendment) Order (NI) 2015 | To insert a number of new fixed penalties in relation to taxi licensing | Subordinate |
| The Passenger and Goods Vehicles (Recording Equipment) (Downloading and Retention of Data) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015 | To implement EU Directive 581/2010 to increase the time required to download data from digital tachographs from 56 to 90 days | Subordinate |
| The Driver and Vehicle Testing Agency Trading Fund Order (Amendment) (NI) 2015 | To rename the DVTA Trading Fund Order and to extend its scope to include all of DVA. | Subordinate |
| The Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Offences) (Amendment) Order 2015 | To insert a new fixed penalty offence for parking on pavement | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015 | To increase the speed threshold at which category T tractors have to comply with higher standards of construction and use. | Subordinate |
| The Public Service Vehicles (Amendment) Regulations 2015 | To introduce specific duties for drivers of certain regulated buses and coaches in relation to disabled passengers | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015 | To reduce differences between GB and NI driving licence regulations | Subordinate |
| The Road Vehicles Lighting (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2015 | To amend the regulations with regard to taxi roof signs | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (Third Party Risks) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) | To remove the vehicle insurance check at the time of licensing a vehicle | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (Insurance Requirements)(Immobilisation, Removal and Disposal) Regulations (NI) | To provide for the immobilisation and removal of uninsured vehicles found stationary on roads and other public places | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (Insurance Requirements) Regulations (NI) | To introduce the offence of being the registered keeper of a vehicle which does not have insurance cover | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (International Motor Insurance Card) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) | To remove the vehicle insurance check | Subordinate |
| The Motor Cycles (Protective Headgear) (Amendment) Regulations | As a consequence of the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill to make the wearing of helmets on quads compulsory | Subordinate |
| The Road Traffic (Graduated Fixed Penalty Points) Order (NI). The Road Traffic Offenders (Appropriate Driving Test) (Amendment) Order (NI). The Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Offences) (Amendment) Order (NI). The Road Traffic (Fixed Penalty) (Amendment) Order (NI). The Motor Vehicles (Driving Licences) (Amendment) Regulations (NI). | 5 SRs as a consequence of the new drink-driving provisions contained in the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill | Subordinate |
| The Passenger and Goods Vehicles (Recording Equipment) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) 2016 | EU Regulation to address tachograph fraud by minimising tampering and to make it easier for enforcement officers and road transport operators to obtain more information from the tachograph. It updates the rules around tachographs and provides for a new technical specification for digital tachographs and cards. | Subordinate |
| The Motor Vehicles (Construction and Use) (Amendment) Regulations (NI) | To update requirements for approval markings on fire extinguishers fitted to public service vehicles and minibuses | Subordinate |
| The Public Service Vehicles (Conditions of Fitness, Equipment and Use) (Amendment) Regulations | To update requirements for approval markings on fire extinguishers fitted to public service vehicles and minibuses | Subordinate |
My Department plans to introduce an Employment Bill by the end of the current mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048119%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240947"}},{"id":"240811","reference":"AQW 48062/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-01","answerBy":"2015-07-20","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what legislation his Department plans to bring forward by the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"The Mental Capacity Bill, Food Hygiene Rating Bill, and the Health and Social Care (Control of Data Processing) Bill have already been introduced in the Assembly and are progressing through their various stages.\n\nIt is also the intention, subject to the Speaker’s agreement, to introduce the Health and Personal Social Services (Amendment) Bill and, subject to Executive agreement, to introduce the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.","answerHtml":"The Mental Capacity Bill, Food Hygiene Rating Bill, and the Health and Social Care (Control of Data Processing) Bill have already been introduced in the Assembly and are progressing through their various stages.
It is also the intention, subject to the Speaker’s agreement, to introduce the Health and Personal Social Services (Amendment) Bill and, subject to Executive agreement, to introduce the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048062%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240811","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240811"}},{"id":"240810","reference":"AQW 48061/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-01","answerBy":"2015-07-20","answered":"2015-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what legislation his Department plans to bring forward by the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"The Department currently has two Bills in the Assembly:\n\nThe Insolvency Amendment Bill; and\n\nThe Credit Unions and Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Bill.\n\nThere are no plans to introduce further Bills in the current mandate.","answerHtml":"The Department currently has two Bills in the Assembly:
The Insolvency Amendment Bill; and
The Credit Unions and Co-operative and Community Benefit Societies Bill.
There are no plans to introduce further Bills in the current mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048061%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240810","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240810"}},{"id":"240809","reference":"AQW 48060/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-01","answerBy":"2015-07-20","answered":"2015-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what legislation his Department plans to bring forward by the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"It is my intention to introduce the following items of Primary legislation before the end of the current mandate - March 2016:\n\nWater Bill\n\nThis Bill would extend my Department’s powers to pay subsidy to Northern Ireland Water on behalf of customers in the absence of domestic water charges; to improve governance arrangements for NI Water; to introduce new powers in relation to the standard of construction of sewerage infrastructure; to restrict surface water connections to the public sewer network; and to cease the requirement on Northern Ireland Water to install meters at domestic properties connecting to the public water supply for the first time.\n\nAmendment to the Land Acquisition and Compensation (Northern Ireland) Order 1973\n\nThis Bill would amend the Land Acquisition and Compensation (Northern Ireland) Order 1973 by introducing a legislative change permitting a mechanism for top-up payments relating to compulsory purchase compensation in order to ensure that the system of assessing compensation payments in respect of compulsory acquisition in Northern Ireland is fairer and similar to England and Wales.","answerHtml":"It is my intention to introduce the following items of Primary legislation before the end of the current mandate - March 2016:
Water Bill
This Bill would extend my Department’s powers to pay subsidy to Northern Ireland Water on behalf of customers in the absence of domestic water charges; to improve governance arrangements for NI Water; to introduce new powers in relation to the standard of construction of sewerage infrastructure; to restrict surface water connections to the public sewer network; and to cease the requirement on Northern Ireland Water to install meters at domestic properties connecting to the public water supply for the first time.
Amendment to the Land Acquisition and Compensation (Northern Ireland) Order 1973
This Bill would amend the Land Acquisition and Compensation (Northern Ireland) Order 1973 by introducing a legislative change permitting a mechanism for top-up payments relating to compulsory purchase compensation in order to ensure that the system of assessing compensation payments in respect of compulsory acquisition in Northern Ireland is fairer and similar to England and Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048060%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240809"}},{"id":"240793","reference":"AQW 48053/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-07-01","answerBy":"2015-07-20","answered":"2015-07-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the legislation her Department intends to bring forward by the end of the current mandate.","answerText":"I intend to bring forward the following legislation before the end of the current Assembly mandate:\n\nRates (Amendment) Bill;\n\nMulti-Unit Developments Bill; and\n\nBudget Bill 2016.\n\nThe Legal Complaints and Regulation Bill was introduced to the Assembly on 8 June 2015 and it is my intention that it completes its passage before the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"I intend to bring forward the following legislation before the end of the current Assembly mandate:
Rates (Amendment) Bill;
Multi-Unit Developments Bill; and
Budget Bill 2016.
The Legal Complaints and Regulation Bill was introduced to the Assembly on 8 June 2015 and it is my intention that it completes its passage before the end of the current Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2048053%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240793","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240793"}},{"id":"240671","reference":"AQW 47997/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-30","answerBy":"2015-07-17","answered":"2015-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what discussions he has had with current Early Years funded groups, to inform the new Pathways Fund available in April 2016.","answerText":"If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.\n\nI am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.\n\nOnce the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.","answerHtml":"If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.
I am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.
Once the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047997%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240671"}},{"id":"240662","reference":"AQW 47991/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-30","answerBy":"2015-07-17","answered":"2015-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what legislation he intends to bring forward before the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"I intend to bring forward the following legislation before the end of the current Assembly mandate:\n\nShared Education Bill;\n\nAnti-bullying Bill; and\n\nEarly Years Education and Learning Bill.\n\nThe Special Educational Needs and Disability Bill was introduced to the Assembly on 2 March 2015 and it is my intention that it completes its passage before the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"I intend to bring forward the following legislation before the end of the current Assembly mandate:
Shared Education Bill;
Anti-bullying Bill; and
Early Years Education and Learning Bill.
The Special Educational Needs and Disability Bill was introduced to the Assembly on 2 March 2015 and it is my intention that it completes its passage before the end of the current Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047991%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240662","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240662"}},{"id":"240660","reference":"AQW 47990/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-30","answerBy":"2015-07-17","answered":"2015-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department’s Pathways Fund will provide services for children aged up to three years of age from April 2016.","answerText":"If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.\n\nI am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.\n\nOnce the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.","answerHtml":"If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.
I am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.
Once the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047990%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240660","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240660"}},{"id":"240659","reference":"AQW 47989/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-30","answerBy":"2015-07-17","answered":"2015-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on his Department's Pathway Fund due to commence in April 2016.","answerText":"If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.\n\nI am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.\n\nOnce the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.","answerHtml":"If funding is available, it is my intention that a new Pathway Fund will replace the current Early Years Fund with awards being made from April 2016 onwards. The Pathway Fund would be open to all providers of Early Years education.
I am also reviewing my budgets for this current financial year to see whether there is any scope to support those providers whose funding is due to end in August 2015 for the bridging period until the new Pathway Fund is established.
Once the position is clear on the availability of funding to support a new Fund, my officials will ensure that this is communicated to the sector, including to current Fund recipients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047989%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240659","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240659"}},{"id":"240656","reference":"AQW 47986/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-30","answerBy":"2015-07-17","answered":"2015-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what legislation his Department plans to bring forward by the end of the current Assembly mandate.","answerText":"My Justice Bill has just completed its Assembly passage and is now awaiting Royal Assent. At its core the Bill has three aims: to improve services for victims and witnesses; to speed up the justice system; and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of key aspects of the system.\n\nI have also very recently introduced a Justice (No. 2) Bill into the Assembly to improve arrangements for the collection and enforcement of financial penalties and to enhance key aspects of prison services.\n\nThe Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and I have introduced the Mental Capacity Bill into the Assembly to create a composite framework for both mental capacity and mental health law.\n\nI am currently in the process of seeking Executive agreement to change the law on abortion in relation to fatal fetal abnormality.\n\nI also have an extensive programme of secondary legislation in both the criminal and civil justice fields.","answerHtml":"My Justice Bill has just completed its Assembly passage and is now awaiting Royal Assent. At its core the Bill has three aims: to improve services for victims and witnesses; to speed up the justice system; and to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of key aspects of the system.
I have also very recently introduced a Justice (No. 2) Bill into the Assembly to improve arrangements for the collection and enforcement of financial penalties and to enhance key aspects of prison services.
The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety and I have introduced the Mental Capacity Bill into the Assembly to create a composite framework for both mental capacity and mental health law.
I am currently in the process of seeking Executive agreement to change the law on abortion in relation to fatal fetal abnormality.
I also have an extensive programme of secondary legislation in both the criminal and civil justice fields.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047986%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240656"}},{"id":"240419","reference":"AQW 47882/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-29","answerBy":"2015-07-16","answered":"2015-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on proposals for the regeneration of Portrush, including a study to examine options around the redevelopment of Portrush Harbour.","answerText":"In April 2015 I forwarded a paper to the Executive outlining options on the way forward with the regeneration of Portrush in the run up to the Open Championship returning to Royal Portrush Golf Club.\n\nIn relation to the Harbour development, an additional piece of work is now required to identify a further option to be tested at economic appraisal stage. This work will be undertaken over the coming months, subject to funding being available.","answerHtml":"In April 2015 I forwarded a paper to the Executive outlining options on the way forward with the regeneration of Portrush in the run up to the Open Championship returning to Royal Portrush Golf Club.
In relation to the Harbour development, an additional piece of work is now required to identify a further option to be tested at economic appraisal stage. This work will be undertaken over the coming months, subject to funding being available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047882%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240419","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240419"}},{"id":"240417","reference":"AQW 47880/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-29","answerBy":"2015-07-16","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the proportion of the Central Good Relations small grants fund 2015/2016 allocated to projects supporting (a) people with disabilities; (b) females; (c) minority ethnic groups; and (d) older people.","answerText":"The application process for small grants remains open throughout the financial year for projects that can be delivered by 31 March 2016. Therefore funding has not been fully allocated at this stage.\n\nIt should be noted that the Central Good Relations fund is a small central scheme designed to distribute funding in year. It supports productive, time-bound projects which contribute to the promotion of good relations. Funding is allocated to good relations projects which contribute to the key priorities of the Together: Building a United Community Strategy. Central Good Relations Funding projects will provide support to people irrespective of their ability, gender, ethnicity or age and as such we do not record information on the funding provided in this way.","answerHtml":"The application process for small grants remains open throughout the financial year for projects that can be delivered by 31 March 2016. Therefore funding has not been fully allocated at this stage.
It should be noted that the Central Good Relations fund is a small central scheme designed to distribute funding in year. It supports productive, time-bound projects which contribute to the promotion of good relations. Funding is allocated to good relations projects which contribute to the key priorities of the Together: Building a United Community Strategy. Central Good Relations Funding projects will provide support to people irrespective of their ability, gender, ethnicity or age and as such we do not record information on the funding provided in this way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047880%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240417","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240417"}},{"id":"240411","reference":"AQW 47874/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-29","answerBy":"2015-07-16","answered":"2015-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) the number of groups who have submitted applications for the Volunteering Small Grants scheme 2015/2016; (ii) the number of applications representing standalone older peoples' groups; and (iii) when the outcome of their applications will be heard.","answerText":"(i) 821 organisations submitted an application to the 2015/2016 Volunteering Small Grants Programme;\n\n(ii)55 applications have been received from organisations representing older peoples’ groups;\n\n(iii)It is planned that all applicants to the Volunteering Small Grants Programme will be notified of the assessment decision during July 2015.","answerHtml":"(i) 821 organisations submitted an application to the 2015/2016 Volunteering Small Grants Programme;
(ii)55 applications have been received from organisations representing older peoples’ groups;
(iii)It is planned that all applicants to the Volunteering Small Grants Programme will be notified of the assessment decision during July 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047874%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240411","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240411"}},{"id":"240406","reference":"AQW 47872/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-29","answerBy":"2015-07-16","answered":"2015-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development when he intends to publish the strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services 2015-2020.","answerText":"The new advice strategy “Advising, Supporting, Empowering – a strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services in Northern Ireland 2015 – 2020” will be published in summer 2015.","answerHtml":"The new advice strategy “Advising, Supporting, Empowering – a strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services in Northern Ireland 2015 – 2020” will be published in summer 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047872%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240406","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240406"}},{"id":"240405","reference":"AQW 47871/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-29","answerBy":"2015-07-16","answered":"2015-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 44941/11-15, whether the non-domestic rates revaluation was intended to support the regeneration of town centres: and to detail the number of non-domestic properties in (i) Coleraine, (ii) Limavady (iii) Portstewart and (iv) Portrush, that had rates increases as a result of Reval2015.","answerText":"The purpose of a revaluation is not to support the regeneration of town centres but to re-distribute the overall rate burden in a fairer way. This is achieved at a revaluation by following the market and using up to date rental information when assessing the new Net Annual Values (NAVs) at the statutory valuation date.\n\nLand & Property Services analysed market rental information for the towns of Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart and established the new NAVs based on this market evidence. The outcome has resulted in both reductions and increases in the NAVs at all of these locations.\n\nIt is not possible to provide the precise information of rate increases as requested, given that the amount of rates changed as a result of regional and district rate poundages, reliefs, exemptions, rate convergence and other factors, and not just Reval 2015. Table 1 compares the change in Net Annual Values (NAVs) at the end of 2014-15, compared to the NAVs in the new Valuation List on 1st April 2015. An increase in NAV, however, did not always result in an increase in rate liability.\n\nTable 1: NAV Changes\n\nColeraine Town centre\tLimavady Town Centre\tPortrush\nTown Centre\tPortstewart Town\nCentre\nNumber of non domestic properties\t984\t366\t259\t157\nNumber with NAV increased\t419\t216\t150\t118\nNumber with NAV decreased\t392\t74\t69\t15\n\nNote: the old wards shown below have been used to define the town centre:\n\nLimavady: Roeside and Rathbrady Wards\n\nColeraine: Central, Mountsandel and Waterside Wards\n\nPortrush: Royal Portrush Ward\n\nPortstewart: Portstewart Ward","answerHtml":"The purpose of a revaluation is not to support the regeneration of town centres but to re-distribute the overall rate burden in a fairer way. This is achieved at a revaluation by following the market and using up to date rental information when assessing the new Net Annual Values (NAVs) at the statutory valuation date.
Land & Property Services analysed market rental information for the towns of Coleraine, Limavady, Portrush and Portstewart and established the new NAVs based on this market evidence. The outcome has resulted in both reductions and increases in the NAVs at all of these locations.
It is not possible to provide the precise information of rate increases as requested, given that the amount of rates changed as a result of regional and district rate poundages, reliefs, exemptions, rate convergence and other factors, and not just Reval 2015. Table 1 compares the change in Net Annual Values (NAVs) at the end of 2014-15, compared to the NAVs in the new Valuation List on 1st April 2015. An increase in NAV, however, did not always result in an increase in rate liability.
Table 1: NAV Changes
| Coleraine Town centre | Limavady Town Centre | Portrush Town Centre | Portstewart Town Centre | |
| Number of non domestic properties | 984 | 366 | 259 | 157 |
| Number with NAV increased | 419 | 216 | 150 | 118 |
| Number with NAV decreased | 392 | 74 | 69 | 15 |
Note: the old wards shown below have been used to define the town centre:
Limavady: Roeside and Rathbrady Wards
Coleraine: Central, Mountsandel and Waterside Wards
Portrush: Royal Portrush Ward
Portstewart: Portstewart Ward
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047871%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240405","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240405"}},{"id":"240266","reference":"AQW 47839/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-26","answerBy":"2015-07-15","answered":"2015-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 47059/11-15, whether the formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success strategy included questions which specifically asked young people and the organisations representing them for their assessment of the Pathways for Young People Education Maintenance Allowance.","answerText":"The formal interim evaluation conducted a range of investigations with young people, both individually and collectively as part of the Youth Forum, and the organisations representing them. It did not directly pose questions regarding Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), but rather sought to draw out the opinions of individuals and groups on incentives to participation. It did not find any significant opinion, either way, on the issue of financial incentives being useful or not in attracting young people.","answerHtml":"The formal interim evaluation conducted a range of investigations with young people, both individually and collectively as part of the Youth Forum, and the organisations representing them. It did not directly pose questions regarding Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA), but rather sought to draw out the opinions of individuals and groups on incentives to participation. It did not find any significant opinion, either way, on the issue of financial incentives being useful or not in attracting young people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047839%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240266"}},{"id":"240265","reference":"AQW 47838/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-26","answerBy":"2015-07-15","answered":"2015-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether the Pathways for Young People Education Maintenance Allowance will be continued following the formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success strategy.","answerText":"Educational and Maintenance Allowance (EMA) can continue to be paid to young people through the mechanism whereby project promoters can claim participant costs through the indirect costs element of the new European Social Fund (ESF) programme.\n\nThe original focus of the Pathways for Young People EMA was to remove any perceived barriers to participation for 16-17 year olds in the NEET category. The Pathways for Young People funding was restricted to a three year period ending in March 2015. In the guidance made available to applicants for the recent call for ESF project applications, allowances for participants were given as an example of the type of additional costs which could be claimed in the revised simplified model, and it was made clear that any such expenses should be included in the 40% overhead costs.\n\nSufficient resources are not available in my Department’s budget to enable separate funding of the Pathways EMA. I have attempted to maximise ESF funding by channelling available resources into requests for 35% match funding, which is in addition to the 25% DEL contribution, as projects cannot progress without this in place. This support for match funding enables draw-down of the 40% ESF funding available to projects and is a more cost effective use of available resources.\n\nESF Managing Authority officials have advised projects that they can re-profile the indirect cost section of their applications to take account of participant allowances.","answerHtml":"Educational and Maintenance Allowance (EMA) can continue to be paid to young people through the mechanism whereby project promoters can claim participant costs through the indirect costs element of the new European Social Fund (ESF) programme.
The original focus of the Pathways for Young People EMA was to remove any perceived barriers to participation for 16-17 year olds in the NEET category. The Pathways for Young People funding was restricted to a three year period ending in March 2015. In the guidance made available to applicants for the recent call for ESF project applications, allowances for participants were given as an example of the type of additional costs which could be claimed in the revised simplified model, and it was made clear that any such expenses should be included in the 40% overhead costs.
Sufficient resources are not available in my Department’s budget to enable separate funding of the Pathways EMA. I have attempted to maximise ESF funding by channelling available resources into requests for 35% match funding, which is in addition to the 25% DEL contribution, as projects cannot progress without this in place. This support for match funding enables draw-down of the 40% ESF funding available to projects and is a more cost effective use of available resources.
ESF Managing Authority officials have advised projects that they can re-profile the indirect cost section of their applications to take account of participant allowances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047838%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240265","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240265"}},{"id":"240264","reference":"AQW 47837/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-26","answerBy":"2015-07-15","answered":"2015-07-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 46967/11-15, whether there has been any reduction in the number of weekly trips by Partnerships, compared to the number of trips in January 2015, due to financial constraints.","answerText":"Grant funding allocations are awarded on a financial year basis, covering the period from April to March each year. Reductions in the level of grant awarded to Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) were only introduced from April 2015, following the allocation of my Department’s 2015/16 budget.\n\nIn comparison to January 2015, the number of trips delivered in April 2015 by Rural Community Transport Partnerships rose from 18,023 trips to 18,520 trips. The statistics quoted have been supplied by the RCTPs.","answerHtml":"Grant funding allocations are awarded on a financial year basis, covering the period from April to March each year. Reductions in the level of grant awarded to Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTPs) were only introduced from April 2015, following the allocation of my Department’s 2015/16 budget.
In comparison to January 2015, the number of trips delivered in April 2015 by Rural Community Transport Partnerships rose from 18,023 trips to 18,520 trips. The statistics quoted have been supplied by the RCTPs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047837%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240264","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240264"}},{"id":"240258","reference":"AQW 47835/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-26","answerBy":"2015-07-15","answered":"2015-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 46898/11-15, whether the Northern Ireland Social Care Council is required to keep a register of social care workers across the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Social Care Council is required keep a Register of prescribed groups of social care workers, irrespective of whether they are employed by HSC Trusts or in the independent sector.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Social Care Council is required keep a Register of prescribed groups of social care workers, irrespective of whether they are employed by HSC Trusts or in the independent sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047835%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240258"}},{"id":"240257","reference":"AQW 47834/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-26","answerBy":"2015-07-15","answered":"2015-07-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to outline how the £0.5 million fund provided through his Department’s carrier bag levy was allocated in relation to existing Listed Building Grant applications.","answerText":"As detailed in my answer to AQO 8158 11/15, I have allocated over £2 million from the Carrier Bag Levy Fund for the environment giving some relief to environmental groups and programmes. Of this £2 million, £0.5m will be spent on Listed Building grant schemes. My focus has been on supporting existing restoration and maintenance projects, in buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including churches.\n\nThe following schemes are being supported:\n\nFormer Derry Cathedral Primary School at Derry’s walls;\n\nFormer Holy Cross Boys School on the Crumlin Road in Belfast;\n\nChurch of the Holy Undivided Trinity in Waringstown;\n\nSacred Heart Church, Omagh;\n\nWorks to conserve the Union Theological College in Belfast;\n\nEssential repair and maintenance of St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry.","answerHtml":"As detailed in my answer to AQO 8158 11/15, I have allocated over £2 million from the Carrier Bag Levy Fund for the environment giving some relief to environmental groups and programmes. Of this £2 million, £0.5m will be spent on Listed Building grant schemes. My focus has been on supporting existing restoration and maintenance projects, in buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including churches.
The following schemes are being supported:
Former Derry Cathedral Primary School at Derry’s walls;
Former Holy Cross Boys School on the Crumlin Road in Belfast;
Church of the Holy Undivided Trinity in Waringstown;
Sacred Heart Church, Omagh;
Works to conserve the Union Theological College in Belfast;
Essential repair and maintenance of St Eugene’s Cathedral, Derry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047834%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240257"}},{"id":"240080","reference":"AQW 47766/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-25","answerBy":"2015-07-10","answered":"2015-07-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 46748/11-15, to provide a breakdown by (a) Health and Social Care Trust; and (b) expenditure.","answerText":"It is not possible to provide the requested information, itemised by Trust, due to the regional nature of the number of investments and the nature of care pathways which may involve individuals being dealt with by more than one healthcare provider.\n\nOf the total £44.31m of Health and Social Care resources ‘shifted left’ by the end of 2014/15, the expenditure provided for:\n\nThe resettlement of Mental Health / Learning Disability clients (£27.5m)\n\na range of transformational initiatives funded directly by HSCB recurrent funding (£16.29m)\n\nto implement transformational initiatives that resulted in hospital activity avoided (£0.52m)","answerHtml":"It is not possible to provide the requested information, itemised by Trust, due to the regional nature of the number of investments and the nature of care pathways which may involve individuals being dealt with by more than one healthcare provider.
Of the total £44.31m of Health and Social Care resources ‘shifted left’ by the end of 2014/15, the expenditure provided for:
The resettlement of Mental Health / Learning Disability clients (£27.5m)
a range of transformational initiatives funded directly by HSCB recurrent funding (£16.29m)
to implement transformational initiatives that resulted in hospital activity avoided (£0.52m)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047766%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240080"}},{"id":"240079","reference":"AQW 47765/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-25","answerBy":"2015-07-10","answered":"2015-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the criteria used by his Department to select ten care homes, across five Health and Social Care Trusts, for possible closure following a twelve week consultation.","answerText":"The review of the future of statutory residential accommodation is being led by the Health and Social Care Board. The Board publicly consulted on the criteria to be used to assess future accommodation needs for older people, and the role of statutory residential homes in meeting those needs.\n\nEach of the Health and Social Care Trusts used these regionally agreed criteria to evaluate their residential care homes. The agreed criteria were quality of care; availability and accessibility of alternative services; care trends; and best use of public money.","answerHtml":"The review of the future of statutory residential accommodation is being led by the Health and Social Care Board. The Board publicly consulted on the criteria to be used to assess future accommodation needs for older people, and the role of statutory residential homes in meeting those needs.
Each of the Health and Social Care Trusts used these regionally agreed criteria to evaluate their residential care homes. The agreed criteria were quality of care; availability and accessibility of alternative services; care trends; and best use of public money.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047765%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240079","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240079"}},{"id":"240078","reference":"AQW 47764/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-25","answerBy":"2015-07-10","answered":"2015-08-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline any (i) nursing; (ii) care; and (iii) residential homes that failed to meet the regulations and standards of the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority in (a) the last twelve months; and (b) whether they have been operated privately or by a Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority’s enforcement activity is available on the RQIA’s website at:\n\nhttp://www.rqia.org.uk/inspections/enforcement_activity.cfm\n\nDuring 2014-15, RQIA took the following enforcement action:\n\nService Category\tNumber of establishments\tNumber of occasions on which enforcement taken\nNursing Home\t16\t17\nResidential Care Home\t7\t10\nTotal\t23\t27\n\nAll of these establishments were operated privately.\n\nThere is no separate care home category of registration.","answerHtml":"The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority’s enforcement activity is available on the RQIA’s website at:
http://www.rqia.org.uk/inspections/enforcement_activity.cfm
During 2014-15, RQIA took the following enforcement action:
| Service Category | Number of establishments | Number of occasions on which enforcement taken |
| Nursing Home | 16 | 17 |
| Residential Care Home | 7 | 10 |
| Total | 23 | 27 |
All of these establishments were operated privately.
There is no separate care home category of registration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047764%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240078"}},{"id":"240068","reference":"AQW 47754/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-25","answerBy":"2015-07-10","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether a scoring mechanism has been confirmed for projects making applications to the Rural Development Fund 2014-2020.","answerText":"The Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 is not yet approved by the European Commission and as such, the method for the selection of applications for the various schemes within the Programme have not yet been formally agreed. Selection criteria or scoring mechanisms for schemes will be specific for each scheme and will be finalised prior to the opening of the scheme. There is also an EU regulatory requirement for the selection criteria to be brought to the Programme Monitoring Committee for consideration.","answerHtml":"The Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 is not yet approved by the European Commission and as such, the method for the selection of applications for the various schemes within the Programme have not yet been formally agreed. Selection criteria or scoring mechanisms for schemes will be specific for each scheme and will be finalised prior to the opening of the scheme. There is also an EU regulatory requirement for the selection criteria to be brought to the Programme Monitoring Committee for consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047754%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240068","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240068"}},{"id":"240067","reference":"AQW 47753/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-25","answerBy":"2015-07-10","answered":"2015-07-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 46965/11-15, whether funding has been ring-fenced for 2015/2016 to protect the Senior Citizen Smart Pass for people aged 65 years and older.","answerText":"As in my response to AQW 46965/11-15 I reiterate that free travel on public transport including those aged 60 years and older and other vulnerable groups was introduced as an Executive Priority and is currently a target within the Programme for Government. I am fully committed to, and fully support in its totality the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and has played an important part in revitalising Public Transport.\n\nI recognise that additional funding for concessionary fares was provided to my Department in this year’s initial budget but it is now estimated that this will not be sufficient to finance the total costs for this year. Under existing DFP budgeting rules this funding must only be used for Concessionary Fares reimbursement. The popularity of the scheme means its continued existence will rely upon continued funding support from the Executive.","answerHtml":"As in my response to AQW 46965/11-15 I reiterate that free travel on public transport including those aged 60 years and older and other vulnerable groups was introduced as an Executive Priority and is currently a target within the Programme for Government. I am fully committed to, and fully support in its totality the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and has played an important part in revitalising Public Transport.
I recognise that additional funding for concessionary fares was provided to my Department in this year’s initial budget but it is now estimated that this will not be sufficient to finance the total costs for this year. Under existing DFP budgeting rules this funding must only be used for Concessionary Fares reimbursement. The popularity of the scheme means its continued existence will rely upon continued funding support from the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047753%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=240067","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=240067"}},{"id":"239873","reference":"AQW 47682/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-24","answerBy":"2015-07-09","answered":"2015-08-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of the under-representation of (a) women; (b) people under the age of 30; (c) minority ethnic communities; and (d) people with disabilities on the boards of local public bodies.","answerText":"The most recent available comprehensive data were published in the Public Bodies and Public Appointments Annual Report for 2013/14. These show that:\n\nat 31 March 2014, 36% of public appointments were held by women, with 31% of applications and 42% of appointments in the 2013/14 reporting year being female;\n\nin the 2013/14 reporting year, people under the age of 30 accounted for 2% of applications and 2% of appointments;\n\nin 2013/14, 2% of applications, and 1% of appointments, were from an ethnic minority; and\n\n3% of applicants, and 2% of appointees, declared a disability in 2013/14.\n\nThe available data clearly show an undesirable under-representation among the listed groups. Work is being taken forward by OFMDFM, the cross-Departmental Public Appointments Forum, and by the NI Statistics and Research Agency to address issues of under-representation.","answerHtml":"The most recent available comprehensive data were published in the Public Bodies and Public Appointments Annual Report for 2013/14. These show that:
at 31 March 2014, 36% of public appointments were held by women, with 31% of applications and 42% of appointments in the 2013/14 reporting year being female;
in the 2013/14 reporting year, people under the age of 30 accounted for 2% of applications and 2% of appointments;
in 2013/14, 2% of applications, and 1% of appointments, were from an ethnic minority; and
3% of applicants, and 2% of appointees, declared a disability in 2013/14.
The available data clearly show an undesirable under-representation among the listed groups. Work is being taken forward by OFMDFM, the cross-Departmental Public Appointments Forum, and by the NI Statistics and Research Agency to address issues of under-representation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047682%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239873"}},{"id":"239867","reference":"AQW 47681/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-24","answerBy":"2015-07-09","answered":"2015-09-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the implementation of recommendations from his Department’s review into Enhancing Healthcare Services for Children and Young People in Northern Ireland from Birth to 18 Years, since 2014.","answerText":"As a result of the Review, the Department has drafted A Strategy for Paediatric Healthcare Services Provided in Hospitals and in the Community in Northern Ireland (2015-25). The Health and Social Care Board is currently finalising an implementation plan, which will be published with the final Strategy document, subject to my approval. I hope to be in a position to publish the Strategy later this year.","answerHtml":"As a result of the Review, the Department has drafted A Strategy for Paediatric Healthcare Services Provided in Hospitals and in the Community in Northern Ireland (2015-25). The Health and Social Care Board is currently finalising an implementation plan, which will be published with the final Strategy document, subject to my approval. I hope to be in a position to publish the Strategy later this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047681%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239867","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239867"}},{"id":"239866","reference":"AQW 47680/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-24","answerBy":"2015-07-09","answered":"2015-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the survival rates for local women with ovarian cancer.","answerText":"The Eurocare-V study conducted on cancer patients diagnosed in 2000-2007 indicated that survival from ovarian cancer in Northern Ireland was similar to that in the other UK countries.","answerHtml":"The Eurocare-V study conducted on cancer patients diagnosed in 2000-2007 indicated that survival from ovarian cancer in Northern Ireland was similar to that in the other UK countries.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047680%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239866","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239866"}},{"id":"239865","reference":"AQW 47679/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-24","answerBy":"2015-07-09","answered":"2015-07-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the progress being made by Executive Departments to encourage a more diverse range of applicants for public appointments.","answerText":"Since the Commissioner for Public Appointments published his report on diversity and under-representation in public appointments in January 2014, extensive work has been taken forward by OFMDFM, the cross-Departmental Public Appointments Forum, and by the NI Statistics and Research Agency in response to the issues raised in this report. This has included outreach measures and liaison with key stakeholders across a large range of under-represented groups, in order to explain the public appointments process and to encourage a wider spectrum of applications.\n\nNew monitoring forms have been developed to capture detailed information on both applicants and appointees, which will improve the information base and ensure that outreach and awareness-raising can be targeted appropriately.\n\nSince March 2015, all public appointment vacancies across government are now advertised on NI Direct, the official website for government services. Over the coming months, this will allow a central, consistent approach to be taken to disseminating knowledge of public appointment opportunities to as wide an audience as possible.","answerHtml":"Since the Commissioner for Public Appointments published his report on diversity and under-representation in public appointments in January 2014, extensive work has been taken forward by OFMDFM, the cross-Departmental Public Appointments Forum, and by the NI Statistics and Research Agency in response to the issues raised in this report. This has included outreach measures and liaison with key stakeholders across a large range of under-represented groups, in order to explain the public appointments process and to encourage a wider spectrum of applications.
New monitoring forms have been developed to capture detailed information on both applicants and appointees, which will improve the information base and ensure that outreach and awareness-raising can be targeted appropriately.
Since March 2015, all public appointment vacancies across government are now advertised on NI Direct, the official website for government services. Over the coming months, this will allow a central, consistent approach to be taken to disseminating knowledge of public appointment opportunities to as wide an audience as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047679%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239865"}},{"id":"239864","reference":"AQW 47678/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-24","answerBy":"2015-07-09","answered":"2015-07-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of patients involved in clinical trials since September 2014, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The requested information is not currently available and could only be acquired at disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"The requested information is not currently available and could only be acquired at disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047678%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239864"}},{"id":"239684","reference":"AQW 47633/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-23","answerBy":"2015-07-08","answered":"2015-09-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) any decisions that have been made on the future of Paediatric Gastroenterology services at Altnagelvin Hospital; and (ii) when these decisions were made.","answerText":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.\n\nIn 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.\n\nA local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.\n\nThere have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.","answerHtml":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.
In 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.
A local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.
There have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047633%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239684","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239684"}},{"id":"239683","reference":"AQW 47632/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-23","answerBy":"2015-07-08","answered":"2015-08-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any communication his Department has had with the Crohnscope Patient Advisory Group regarding health care provision for children with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, and their parents.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) was first contacted by the Crohnscope Group in January 2014. The Group remain in touch with the HSCB, Public Health Agency (PHA) and both the Belfast and Western Health and Social Care Trusts on an on-going basis. Officials from the HSCB, PHA and the Belfast Trust last met with the Group in August 2014 and the next meeting is scheduled to take place shortly.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) was first contacted by the Crohnscope Group in January 2014. The Group remain in touch with the HSCB, Public Health Agency (PHA) and both the Belfast and Western Health and Social Care Trusts on an on-going basis. Officials from the HSCB, PHA and the Belfast Trust last met with the Group in August 2014 and the next meeting is scheduled to take place shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047632%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239683","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239683"}},{"id":"239680","reference":"AQW 47630/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-23","answerBy":"2015-07-08","answered":"2015-09-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) the challenges facing Paediatric Gastroenterology services in the last 18 months, (ii) the impact of this on the provision of health care; and (iii) how local provision compares with provision across the rest of the UK.","answerText":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.\n\nIn 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.\n\nA local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.\n\nThere have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.","answerHtml":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.
In 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.
A local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.
There have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047630%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239680"}},{"id":"239679","reference":"AQW 47629/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-23","answerBy":"2015-07-08","answered":"2015-09-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any discussions his Department has had with (i) the Western Health and Social Care Trust, (ii) the Health and social Care Board, and (iii) the Managed Clinical Network for the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease in Children in Northern Ireland, regarding the future of Paediatric Gastroenterology services.","answerText":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.\n\nIn 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.\n\nA local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.\n\nThere have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.","answerHtml":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.
In 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.
A local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.
There have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047629%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239679"}},{"id":"239678","reference":"AQW 47628/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-23","answerBy":"2015-07-08","answered":"2015-09-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current waiting list for patients seeking an outpatient appointment for Paediatric Gastroenterology Services in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) specifically, Altnagelvin Hospital.","answerText":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.\n\nIn 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.\n\nA local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.\n\nThere have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.","answerHtml":"Currently, paediatric gastroenterology is a tertiary service provided by the Belfast Trust at the Royal Belfast Hospital for Sick Children. At the 23rd June 2015, there were 41 children waiting for an outpatient appointment and 215 children waiting for an endoscopy inpatient procedure within the paediatric gastroenterology service.
In 2014/15, Belfast Trust took clinical responsibility for Western Trust area patients and established a centralised single waiting list for all children in Northern Ireland to ensure chronological management and equity of waiting times for children, irrespective of where they live. In September 2014, Belfast Trust commenced a bi-monthly outreach service to Altnagelvin Hospital to help support local access to outpatient services.
A local paediatric gastroenterology network group was established in 2012, with a remit to standardise care, policies and procedures through NI and to improve communication links between the HSC Trusts.
There have been significant staff sick leave issues over the last 18 months which have increased the pressure on the service. The HSC Board and Public Health Agency remain actively engaged and committed to working to resolve these issues in as short at timescale as possible and the HSCB has offered to support any additional capacity that the Belfast Trust can secure, either locally or nationally, to reduce waiting lists . The local paediatric gastroenterology network group is also carrying out work with the HSCB and the Public Health Agency on staffing levels for paediatric gastroenterology in NI compared to other regions in the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047628%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239678"}},{"id":"239568","reference":"AQW 47562/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-22","answerBy":"2015-07-07","answered":"2015-07-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQO 8404/11-15, how adjustments will focus on protecting the service users of the Disability Action Transport Scheme.","answerText":"My Department continues to provide over £2.3m in grant assistance to Disability Action for these important services.\n\nDisability Action has committed to continually look to maximise the Disability Action Scheme to see if services to the most vulnerable can be maintained. However in light of the reduction in funding to its grant, Disability Action engaged in a process of review of service provision to ensure that this important transport continues to be provided to its members.\n\nFollowing this review a fare increase was introduced. The increase in fares for people using the Scheme was an operational decision made by Disability Action following consultation with scheme users at user forum meetings. It is aimed at ensuring services are maintained in a climate of financial uncertainty and with least disruption to client groups. This is the first time from 2006 that there has been a fare increase.\n\nDisability Action also undertook an analysis of trip demand by day and time of day and considered a number of options which took account of the times when most members travelled again these changes were subject to discussion with members at user forums.\n\nThe reductions on the amount of trips available to members following these changes is minimal and the fare increase will contribute to ensuring that based on direct delivery, only 5% of journeys will be affected by these changes. Disability Action has advised that these changes will have the least impact on their clients and will keep these matters under consideration\n\nIn addition Disability Action have considered efficiencies within its own organisation and identified and implemented changes to make savings which again ensure that front line services are protected.\n\nAlthough there was a reduction in funding provided to Disability Action and other transport service providers, my Department has bid for additional funding as part of June monitoring. Should this bid be successful, it is likely that Disability Action will receive additional funding.","answerHtml":"My Department continues to provide over £2.3m in grant assistance to Disability Action for these important services.
Disability Action has committed to continually look to maximise the Disability Action Scheme to see if services to the most vulnerable can be maintained. However in light of the reduction in funding to its grant, Disability Action engaged in a process of review of service provision to ensure that this important transport continues to be provided to its members.
Following this review a fare increase was introduced. The increase in fares for people using the Scheme was an operational decision made by Disability Action following consultation with scheme users at user forum meetings. It is aimed at ensuring services are maintained in a climate of financial uncertainty and with least disruption to client groups. This is the first time from 2006 that there has been a fare increase.
Disability Action also undertook an analysis of trip demand by day and time of day and considered a number of options which took account of the times when most members travelled again these changes were subject to discussion with members at user forums.
The reductions on the amount of trips available to members following these changes is minimal and the fare increase will contribute to ensuring that based on direct delivery, only 5% of journeys will be affected by these changes. Disability Action has advised that these changes will have the least impact on their clients and will keep these matters under consideration
In addition Disability Action have considered efficiencies within its own organisation and identified and implemented changes to make savings which again ensure that front line services are protected.
Although there was a reduction in funding provided to Disability Action and other transport service providers, my Department has bid for additional funding as part of June monitoring. Should this bid be successful, it is likely that Disability Action will receive additional funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047562%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239568","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239568"}},{"id":"239564","reference":"AQW 47558/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-22","answerBy":"2015-07-07","answered":"2015-07-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how recent budget cuts will impact upon collaborative efforts between the Northern Regional College and Ulster University, Coleraine, to establish Foundation degrees in Performing Arts and Computing in September 2016 and in Business with Information Technology in September 2017.","answerText":"My policy is to encourage the provision of Foundation Degrees as the primary intermediate level professional and technical qualification which will have a major role to play in meeting the higher level priority skills needs of the Northern Irish economy. Over the last few years, I have made increased funding available to provide an additional 83 full time higher education places at Northern Regional College, bringing the overall total allocation to 332 places.\n\nHowever, in the current financial climate I have recently had to pass on budgetary reductions to all providers of higher education. While the total numbers of full time higher education places in the regional Further Education Colleges has been protected for this year, there is little likelihood of further expansion in the short term.\n\nMy Department does not determine the disciplines in which the universities and regional colleges will collaborate in the development of Foundation degree qualifications. It is entirely a matter for the senior management of the institutions to determine the allocation of places across the course provision to best meet local demand.","answerHtml":"My policy is to encourage the provision of Foundation Degrees as the primary intermediate level professional and technical qualification which will have a major role to play in meeting the higher level priority skills needs of the Northern Irish economy. Over the last few years, I have made increased funding available to provide an additional 83 full time higher education places at Northern Regional College, bringing the overall total allocation to 332 places.
However, in the current financial climate I have recently had to pass on budgetary reductions to all providers of higher education. While the total numbers of full time higher education places in the regional Further Education Colleges has been protected for this year, there is little likelihood of further expansion in the short term.
My Department does not determine the disciplines in which the universities and regional colleges will collaborate in the development of Foundation degree qualifications. It is entirely a matter for the senior management of the institutions to determine the allocation of places across the course provision to best meet local demand.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047558%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239564","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239564"}},{"id":"239561","reference":"AQW 47556/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-22","answerBy":"2015-07-07","answered":"2015-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) the groups represented on the Joint Government/Voluntary and Community Sector Forum; (ii) who attended the last Forum meeting; (iii) what was discussed; and (iv) whether a date has been set for the next Forum meeting.","answerText":"(i) & (ii)The groups represented on the Joint Government/Voluntary and Community Sector Forum and attendees at the last Joint Forum meeting are shown on the following table.\n\nPUBLIC SECTOR GROUP\tATTENDED\nDepartment of Agriculture and Rural Development\tN\nDepartment for Culture, Arts and Leisure\tY\nDepartment of Education\tY\nDepartment for Employment and Learning\tY\nDepartment of Enterprise, Trade and Investment\tY\nDepartment of the Environment\tY\nDepartment of Finance and Personnel\tY\nPublic Sector Reform Unit (DFP)\tY\nDepartment of Health, Social Services and Public Safety\tY\nDepartment of Justice\tY\nDepartment for Regional Development\tY\nDepartment for Social Development\tY\nOffice of the First and deputy First Minister\tY\nSociety of Local Government Chief Executives\tY\nNorthern Ireland Local Government Association\tN\n\nVOLUNTARY SECTOR PANEL\nAge NI\tY\nCarers NI\tN\nChurches’ Community Work Alliance NI\tY\nDisability Action\tY\nEast Belfast Community Development Agency\tY\nGingerbread NI\tY\nNorth West Community Network\tY\nNorthern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action\tY\nNorthern Ireland Rural Women’s Network\tY\nNorthern Ireland Youth Forum\tY\nRural Community Network\tY\nSandy Row Community Forum\tN\nSave the Children\tY\nVictim Support\tN\nVoluntary Arts Ireland\tY\nWomen’s Resource and Development Agency\tY\nWorld Wildlife Fund\tY\n\nThe usual Joint Forum agenda was suspended to focus on a discussion paper prepared by NICVA on behalf of Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations. This paper outlined the emerging impact of budget efficiencies on VCS organisations. The agenda for the meeting covered the following topics:\n\nOverview from VCS\n\nCase studies from VCS\n\nGoing forward – the approach\n\nEarly engagement for 2016/17\n\nOFMDFM overview and building on strategic approach and Dept responses.\n\nRole of DSD Minister as champion for VCS.\n\nHow VCS can support government in difficult decision making processes.\n\nA Potential Transition Fund.\n\nNew Programme for Government.\n\nThe next meeting of the Joint Forum is scheduled for October 2015. A date has yet to be arranged.","answerHtml":"(i) & (ii)The groups represented on the Joint Government/Voluntary and Community Sector Forum and attendees at the last Joint Forum meeting are shown on the following table.
| PUBLIC SECTOR GROUP | ATTENDED |
| Department of Agriculture and Rural Development | N |
| Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure | Y |
| Department of Education | Y |
| Department for Employment and Learning | Y |
| Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment | Y |
| Department of the Environment | Y |
| Department of Finance and Personnel | Y |
| Public Sector Reform Unit (DFP) | Y |
| Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety | Y |
| Department of Justice | Y |
| Department for Regional Development | Y |
| Department for Social Development | Y |
| Office of the First and deputy First Minister | Y |
| Society of Local Government Chief Executives | Y |
| Northern Ireland Local Government Association | N |
| VOLUNTARY SECTOR PANEL | |
| Age NI | Y |
| Carers NI | N |
| Churches’ Community Work Alliance NI | Y |
| Disability Action | Y |
| East Belfast Community Development Agency | Y |
| Gingerbread NI | Y |
| North West Community Network | Y |
| Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action | Y |
| Northern Ireland Rural Women’s Network | Y |
| Northern Ireland Youth Forum | Y |
| Rural Community Network | Y |
| Sandy Row Community Forum | N |
| Save the Children | Y |
| Victim Support | N |
| Voluntary Arts Ireland | Y |
| Women’s Resource and Development Agency | Y |
| World Wildlife Fund | Y |
The usual Joint Forum agenda was suspended to focus on a discussion paper prepared by NICVA on behalf of Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) organisations. This paper outlined the emerging impact of budget efficiencies on VCS organisations. The agenda for the meeting covered the following topics:
Overview from VCS
Case studies from VCS
Going forward – the approach
Early engagement for 2016/17
OFMDFM overview and building on strategic approach and Dept responses.
Role of DSD Minister as champion for VCS.
How VCS can support government in difficult decision making processes.
A Potential Transition Fund.
New Programme for Government.
The next meeting of the Joint Forum is scheduled for October 2015. A date has yet to be arranged.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047556%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239561","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239561"}},{"id":"239560","reference":"AQW 47555/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-22","answerBy":"2015-07-07","answered":"2015-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his Department's assessment of the Employment Service Support scheme following its conclusion; including a breakdown of participants by (i) age (ii) gender and (iii) the number sustaining employment following the scheme.","answerText":"Employment Service Support (ESS) was introduced on 2 June 2014, to support the continued delivery of the Executive funded initiatives, First Start and Step Ahead 50+. It was part of the wider transition arrangements that facilitated the continuity of provision leading to the introduction of a new adult return to work programme, Steps 2 Success (S2S).\n\nS2S was successfully launched as the Department’s new adult return to work programme on 20 October 2014.\n\nValidated statistical information is not yet available on ESS that would allow me to provide a breakdown of participants in the format requested. It is anticipated that an ESS publication will be released later this year which would provide information on starts, moves into employment and sustained employment.\n\nThe ESS programme is unlikely to conclude before September 2015 as, although access to ESS ended on 31 March 2015, those participants who had not completed their time on provision by 31 March 2015, will complete the balance of their provision during 2015/16.\n\nManagement information outlining the target group and number of starts for each strand of ESS provision is contained in the following table.\n\nESS Strand\tTarget Group\tNumber of Starts\nInto Work Skills\tAll Age (18+)\t170\nShort Accredited Training Courses (SATC)\tAll Age (18+)\t2,299\nFirst Start\t18-24 year olds\t405\nStep Ahead 50+\tAged 50 and over\t343\nYES Skills Development Programme\t18-24 year olds\t2,005\nYES Work Experience\t18-24 year olds\t96\nSelf Employment Test Trading\tAll Age (18+)\t313\nTotal\t\t5,631\n\nAs detailed above, 5,631 clients accessed ESS provision in order to assist them to return to work. These statistics are very encouraging, however it will only be possible for an accurate assessment of the performance of ESS when statistics on the numbers finding employment following completion of their ESS provision become available.\n\nSustained employment outcomes will always lag six months behind the published starts and leaver data as participants have up to 13 weeks to find work upon leaving the programme and must remain in the same spell of employment for 13 weeks.","answerHtml":"Employment Service Support (ESS) was introduced on 2 June 2014, to support the continued delivery of the Executive funded initiatives, First Start and Step Ahead 50+. It was part of the wider transition arrangements that facilitated the continuity of provision leading to the introduction of a new adult return to work programme, Steps 2 Success (S2S).
S2S was successfully launched as the Department’s new adult return to work programme on 20 October 2014.
Validated statistical information is not yet available on ESS that would allow me to provide a breakdown of participants in the format requested. It is anticipated that an ESS publication will be released later this year which would provide information on starts, moves into employment and sustained employment.
The ESS programme is unlikely to conclude before September 2015 as, although access to ESS ended on 31 March 2015, those participants who had not completed their time on provision by 31 March 2015, will complete the balance of their provision during 2015/16.
Management information outlining the target group and number of starts for each strand of ESS provision is contained in the following table.
| ESS Strand | Target Group | Number of Starts |
| Into Work Skills | All Age (18+) | 170 |
| Short Accredited Training Courses (SATC) | All Age (18+) | 2,299 |
| First Start | 18-24 year olds | 405 |
| Step Ahead 50+ | Aged 50 and over | 343 |
| YES Skills Development Programme | 18-24 year olds | 2,005 |
| YES Work Experience | 18-24 year olds | 96 |
| Self Employment Test Trading | All Age (18+) | 313 |
| Total | 5,631 |
As detailed above, 5,631 clients accessed ESS provision in order to assist them to return to work. These statistics are very encouraging, however it will only be possible for an accurate assessment of the performance of ESS when statistics on the numbers finding employment following completion of their ESS provision become available.
Sustained employment outcomes will always lag six months behind the published starts and leaver data as participants have up to 13 weeks to find work upon leaving the programme and must remain in the same spell of employment for 13 weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047555%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239560","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239560"}},{"id":"239557","reference":"AQW 47554/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-22","answerBy":"2015-07-07","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for (i) his assessment of the need for specialist Multiple Sclerosis nurses within the Northern Trust, and specifically Causeway Hospital; and (ii) to detail any recent discussions with regards to increasing the provision of MS nurses.","answerText":"Services for patients with Multiple Sclerosis are provided within the Northern Trust by a MS Special Nurse (0.5wte) based at the Route Complex, Ballymoney.\n\nRegional MS services are provided by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. Regional services include commencement and review of disease modifying drugs, drug infusions and a regional help line to provide advice for MS patients.\n\nThe service specification for the MS Neurological Services throughout Northern Ireland, including the provision of specialist nurses, is currently being reviewed.","answerHtml":"Services for patients with Multiple Sclerosis are provided within the Northern Trust by a MS Special Nurse (0.5wte) based at the Route Complex, Ballymoney.
Regional MS services are provided by the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. Regional services include commencement and review of disease modifying drugs, drug infusions and a regional help line to provide advice for MS patients.
The service specification for the MS Neurological Services throughout Northern Ireland, including the provision of specialist nurses, is currently being reviewed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047554%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239557","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239557"}},{"id":"239443","reference":"AQW 47488/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-19","answerBy":"2015-07-06","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of local patient access to non-National Institute of Health and Care Excellence approved drugs compared to the rest of the UK.","answerText":"My Department has recently evaluated the Individual Funding Request process, which is designed to provide access to novel, off-label or non-NICE approved specialist drugs, and has publicly consulted on the recommendations from the published report. A copy of the evaluation is available at the following address:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/ifr-report170215.\n\nThe consultation closed on 08 May 2015. The responses are currently being analysed.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently evaluated the Individual Funding Request process, which is designed to provide access to novel, off-label or non-NICE approved specialist drugs, and has publicly consulted on the recommendations from the published report. A copy of the evaluation is available at the following address:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/ifr-report170215.
The consultation closed on 08 May 2015. The responses are currently being analysed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047488%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239443"}},{"id":"239442","reference":"AQW 47487/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-19","answerBy":"2015-07-06","answered":"2015-11-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the value of rebate payments from the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) since 2014; and (ii) how this money has been spent.","answerText":"Receipts due to Northern Ireland under the terms of the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) are paid directly by the Department of Health to the Health and Social Care Board. Since 1 January 2014, the apportioned returns to Northern Ireland from the PPRS total £36 m, which includes residual payments from the previous scheme (2009).\n\nPPRS receipts of £16.7 m were received in the 2014/15 financial year and were used to offset £21m growth in expenditure on branded medicines in 2014/15 compared with 2013/14.\n\nPPRS receipts received in 2015/16 are also being used to offset the growth pressure in branded medicines. The HSC Board estimates that it will receive a total of £39m in PPRS receipts for 2015/16. However, it is estimated that the growth pressure for expenditure on branded medicines in 2015/16 will be £43m compared with 2013/14.","answerHtml":"Receipts due to Northern Ireland under the terms of the Pharmaceutical Price Regulation Scheme (PPRS) are paid directly by the Department of Health to the Health and Social Care Board. Since 1 January 2014, the apportioned returns to Northern Ireland from the PPRS total £36 m, which includes residual payments from the previous scheme (2009).
PPRS receipts of £16.7 m were received in the 2014/15 financial year and were used to offset £21m growth in expenditure on branded medicines in 2014/15 compared with 2013/14.
PPRS receipts received in 2015/16 are also being used to offset the growth pressure in branded medicines. The HSC Board estimates that it will receive a total of £39m in PPRS receipts for 2015/16. However, it is estimated that the growth pressure for expenditure on branded medicines in 2015/16 will be £43m compared with 2013/14.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047487%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239442"}},{"id":"239441","reference":"AQW 47486/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-19","answerBy":"2015-07-06","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of access to new drugs used in cancer research and clinical trials for local patients.","answerText":"My Department has recently evaluated the Individual Funding Request process, which is designed to provide access to novel, off-label or non-NICE approved specialist drugs, and has publicly consulted on the recommendations from the published report. A copy of the evaluation is available at the following address:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/ifr-report170215.\n\nThe consultation closed on 08 May 2015. The responses are currently being analysed.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently evaluated the Individual Funding Request process, which is designed to provide access to novel, off-label or non-NICE approved specialist drugs, and has publicly consulted on the recommendations from the published report. A copy of the evaluation is available at the following address:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/ifr-report170215.
The consultation closed on 08 May 2015. The responses are currently being analysed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047486%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239441"}},{"id":"239440","reference":"AQW 47485/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-19","answerBy":"2015-07-06","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number (i) of patients who are currently involved in new clinical trials; and of this figure (ii) involved in observational studies only.","answerText":"The requested information is not currently available and could only be acquired at disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"The requested information is not currently available and could only be acquired at disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047485%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239440"}},{"id":"239439","reference":"AQW 47484/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-19","answerBy":"2015-07-06","answered":"2015-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the exceptionality clause within the Individual Fund Request (IFR) process; and the extent to which this clause inhibits the number of requests forwarded for assessment.","answerText":"My Department has recently evaluated the Individual Funding Request process, which is designed to provide access to novel, off-label or non-NICE approved specialist drugs, and has publicly consulted on the recommendations from the published report. A copy of the evaluation is available at the following address:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/ifr-report170215.\n\nThe consultation closed on 08 May 2015. The responses are currently being analysed.","answerHtml":"My Department has recently evaluated the Individual Funding Request process, which is designed to provide access to novel, off-label or non-NICE approved specialist drugs, and has publicly consulted on the recommendations from the published report. A copy of the evaluation is available at the following address:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/ifr-report170215.
The consultation closed on 08 May 2015. The responses are currently being analysed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047484%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239439"}},{"id":"239241","reference":"AQW 47430/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-18","answerBy":"2015-07-03","answered":"2015-08-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the intended timeframe for issuing the consultation document for age discrimination legislation on the provision of goods, facilities and services.","answerText":"The consultation on proposals to extend age discrimination legislation was launched on 3 July 2015 and will run for 14 weeks, closing on 8 October 2015.","answerHtml":"The consultation on proposals to extend age discrimination legislation was launched on 3 July 2015 and will run for 14 weeks, closing on 8 October 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047430%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239241"}},{"id":"239240","reference":"AQW 47429/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-18","answerBy":"2015-07-03","answered":"2015-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 41764/11-15, to detail (i) the members of the Ageing Strategy Advisory Group; (ii) the extent to which they have contributed to the draft outcomes of the strategy; and (iii) whether the Strategy will be published before 3 July 2015.","answerText":"The Ageing Strategy Advisory Group, which is chaired by the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, comprises of representatives from the following organisations:\n\nOlder Women’s Network;\n\nEquality Commission for Northern Ireland;\n\nVolunteer Now;\n\nAge NI;\n\nAge Sector Platform;\n\nBelfast Health Development Unit;\n\nOffice of the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland;\n\nNorthern Ireland Pensioners’ Parliament;\n\nRural Community Network;\n\nIrish Congress of Trade Unions;\n\nCentre for Ageing Research & Development in Ireland; and\n\nBelfast Law Centre.\n\nThe draft Active Ageing Strategy was shared and discussed with the Advisory Group and their comments contributed to the development of the Strategy outcomes.\n\nThe Active Ageing Strategy is currently being finalised and, subject to Committee consideration and Executive approval, will be published in due course.","answerHtml":"The Ageing Strategy Advisory Group, which is chaired by the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, comprises of representatives from the following organisations:
Older Women’s Network;
Equality Commission for Northern Ireland;
Volunteer Now;
Age NI;
Age Sector Platform;
Belfast Health Development Unit;
Office of the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland;
Northern Ireland Pensioners’ Parliament;
Rural Community Network;
Irish Congress of Trade Unions;
Centre for Ageing Research & Development in Ireland; and
Belfast Law Centre.
The draft Active Ageing Strategy was shared and discussed with the Advisory Group and their comments contributed to the development of the Strategy outcomes.
The Active Ageing Strategy is currently being finalised and, subject to Committee consideration and Executive approval, will be published in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047429%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239240","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239240"}},{"id":"239237","reference":"AQW 47428/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-18","answerBy":"2015-07-03","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 47177/11-15, for his assessment of the value of the Residential and Outdoor Education Services provided by the Woodhall Outdoor Education Centre in Kilrea.","answerText":"Residential and Outdoor Education provides a wide range of positive non-formal educational experiences and opportunities for young people. Effective youth work helps young people to identify their personal and social development needs to improve both their own skills and life chances in order to create a better future for themselves and their communities. Every opportunity should be given to young people to participate in all aspects of the youth service and in a range of different ways.\n\nAs part of the implementation of Priorities for Youth, a review of all DE-funded residential and outdoor education, including Woodhall, will be undertaken by the Education Authority by January 2016 with input sought from a wide range of interested stakeholders.\n\nWoodhall Outdoor Education Centre was last inspected in March 2012, the quality of provision was outstanding.","answerHtml":"Residential and Outdoor Education provides a wide range of positive non-formal educational experiences and opportunities for young people. Effective youth work helps young people to identify their personal and social development needs to improve both their own skills and life chances in order to create a better future for themselves and their communities. Every opportunity should be given to young people to participate in all aspects of the youth service and in a range of different ways.
As part of the implementation of Priorities for Youth, a review of all DE-funded residential and outdoor education, including Woodhall, will be undertaken by the Education Authority by January 2016 with input sought from a wide range of interested stakeholders.
Woodhall Outdoor Education Centre was last inspected in March 2012, the quality of provision was outstanding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047428%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239237","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239237"}},{"id":"239233","reference":"AQW 47427/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-18","answerBy":"2015-07-03","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on any progress made on the Regional Youth Development Plan for 2016-2019.","answerText":"Work on the development of the next Regional Youth Development Plan will be taken forward jointly by the Education Authority and the Youth Council, with input from the Regional Advisory Group, comprising young people, voluntary and statutory stakeholders.","answerHtml":"Work on the development of the next Regional Youth Development Plan will be taken forward jointly by the Education Authority and the Youth Council, with input from the Regional Advisory Group, comprising young people, voluntary and statutory stakeholders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047427%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239233","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239233"}},{"id":"239231","reference":"AQW 47426/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-18","answerBy":"2015-07-03","answered":"2015-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the development of a Small Grants Programme as outlined in the Action Plan for Regional Youth Development Framework 2015-2016.","answerText":"The development of a small grants programme is being taken forward by an inter-sectoral group, comprising a minimum of 10 young people and representatives from the voluntary and statutory youth sectors, led by the Youth Council.\n\nThe initial meeting of this group will be held shortly.","answerHtml":"The development of a small grants programme is being taken forward by an inter-sectoral group, comprising a minimum of 10 young people and representatives from the voluntary and statutory youth sectors, led by the Youth Council.
The initial meeting of this group will be held shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047426%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239231","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239231"}},{"id":"239039","reference":"AQW 47386/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-17","answerBy":"2015-07-02","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what funding is available for the North West Social and Economic Development Programme in 2015/2016.","answerText":"The North West Socio Economic Development Programme 2014/ 15 sought to strategically extend DCAL’s impact across the wider North West with a focus on enhancing capacity, building networks and embedding sustainability in Coleraine, Limavady, Strabane and their rural surrounds.\n\nAs this funding was allocated in the 2014/ 15 financial year only, the Programme had a key emphasis on sustainability, with interventions designed to create lasting impacts and deliver outcomes for communities long after the funding expenditure period ended on 31 March 2015.\n\nA bid has been submitted in the June Monitoring Round to support continuation of successful projects and outcomes in 2015/16.","answerHtml":"The North West Socio Economic Development Programme 2014/ 15 sought to strategically extend DCAL’s impact across the wider North West with a focus on enhancing capacity, building networks and embedding sustainability in Coleraine, Limavady, Strabane and their rural surrounds.
As this funding was allocated in the 2014/ 15 financial year only, the Programme had a key emphasis on sustainability, with interventions designed to create lasting impacts and deliver outcomes for communities long after the funding expenditure period ended on 31 March 2015.
A bid has been submitted in the June Monitoring Round to support continuation of successful projects and outcomes in 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047386%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239039","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239039"}},{"id":"239035","reference":"AQW 47382/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-17","answerBy":"2015-07-02","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the outcome of the meetings of the Good Relations Programme Board which were convened in response to the recent increase in race hate incidents, including any actions that followed.","answerText":"There have been three meetings of the Good Relations Programme Board focusing on race hate. The meetings have covered a wide range of topics including:\n\nWhat departments are currently doing/or could do to combat race hate;\n\nHow learning from other programmes can inform departmental actions/responses;\n\nThe Police Service for Northern Ireland race hate statistics and better identification of areas known for race related hate crime; and\n\nExperiences of Minority Ethnic people (presentations from the North West Migrants Forum and the Ballymena Inter-Ethnic Forum.\n\nThe outcomes from these meetings have focussed on:\n\nImproving information to Minority Ethnic people, in particular to newly arrived immigrants;\n\nImproving the sharing of learning between departments to enhance anti racist practice;\n\nThe need for departments and Agencies to tackle barriers facing minority ethnic people in accessing their services;\n\nDeveloping a training programme for the new Councils; and\n\nDeveloping a core narrative for use across Government;\n\nAll of the discussions and outcomes have been used to inform the development of the Racial Equality Strategy, and then production of an implementation plan compete with department’s actions.","answerHtml":"There have been three meetings of the Good Relations Programme Board focusing on race hate. The meetings have covered a wide range of topics including:
What departments are currently doing/or could do to combat race hate;
How learning from other programmes can inform departmental actions/responses;
The Police Service for Northern Ireland race hate statistics and better identification of areas known for race related hate crime; and
Experiences of Minority Ethnic people (presentations from the North West Migrants Forum and the Ballymena Inter-Ethnic Forum.
The outcomes from these meetings have focussed on:
Improving information to Minority Ethnic people, in particular to newly arrived immigrants;
Improving the sharing of learning between departments to enhance anti racist practice;
The need for departments and Agencies to tackle barriers facing minority ethnic people in accessing their services;
Developing a training programme for the new Councils; and
Developing a core narrative for use across Government;
All of the discussions and outcomes have been used to inform the development of the Racial Equality Strategy, and then production of an implementation plan compete with department’s actions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047382%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239035","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239035"}},{"id":"239034","reference":"AQW 47381/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-17","answerBy":"2015-07-02","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what steps have been taken to support and develop the underpinning principles and key priorities of Together: Building a United Community to address race related and hate crime.","answerText":"Together: Building a United Community (T: BUC) and the forthcoming Racial Equality Strategy are designed to complement one another.\n\nA Ministerial Panel oversees the delivery of the T: BUC strategy and sets the strategy direction for improving community relations within our society. This Panel will also have a role in overseeing the implementation of the Racial Equality Strategy.\n\nThe Ministerial Panel is supported by the Good Relations Programme Board, comprising senior officials from all Government Departments. The Board reviews the progress of Departments in implementing their actions and commitments, looking at ways of working together in order to make maximum impact in terms of improving community relations and focusing on specific areas of concern. To that end the Board has held specific meetings focusing on race hate and how Government and its statutory partners can work better together in response to race hate incidents. These discussions have also helped to inform the Department’s work on the new Racial Equality Strategy.\n\nThematic subgroups set up under the auspices of the Ministerial Panel, such as the Community Tensions Subgroup, which looks at a range of issues including sectarianism, race hate and intra-community tensions. The membership of other thematic subgroups will also include representation from minority ethnic organisations. It is intended that a racial equality subgroup will also be incorporated into this structure.\n\nA range of funding sources from right across Government, including OFMDFM through the Central Good Relations Fund, District Councils Good Relations Programme, Minority Ethnic Development Fund as well as funding from the Community Relations Council, are available to improve community relations and race relations right across our society as well as tackle issues such as sectarianism and race related hate crime.\n\nLastly the development of the new Good Relations Indicators and their application in the funding stratums in 2015/16 will enable the Department to assess the impact its funding is making in tackling issues such as intolerance, sectarianism, racism and homophobia.","answerHtml":"Together: Building a United Community (T: BUC) and the forthcoming Racial Equality Strategy are designed to complement one another.
A Ministerial Panel oversees the delivery of the T: BUC strategy and sets the strategy direction for improving community relations within our society. This Panel will also have a role in overseeing the implementation of the Racial Equality Strategy.
The Ministerial Panel is supported by the Good Relations Programme Board, comprising senior officials from all Government Departments. The Board reviews the progress of Departments in implementing their actions and commitments, looking at ways of working together in order to make maximum impact in terms of improving community relations and focusing on specific areas of concern. To that end the Board has held specific meetings focusing on race hate and how Government and its statutory partners can work better together in response to race hate incidents. These discussions have also helped to inform the Department’s work on the new Racial Equality Strategy.
Thematic subgroups set up under the auspices of the Ministerial Panel, such as the Community Tensions Subgroup, which looks at a range of issues including sectarianism, race hate and intra-community tensions. The membership of other thematic subgroups will also include representation from minority ethnic organisations. It is intended that a racial equality subgroup will also be incorporated into this structure.
A range of funding sources from right across Government, including OFMDFM through the Central Good Relations Fund, District Councils Good Relations Programme, Minority Ethnic Development Fund as well as funding from the Community Relations Council, are available to improve community relations and race relations right across our society as well as tackle issues such as sectarianism and race related hate crime.
Lastly the development of the new Good Relations Indicators and their application in the funding stratums in 2015/16 will enable the Department to assess the impact its funding is making in tackling issues such as intolerance, sectarianism, racism and homophobia.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047381%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239034"}},{"id":"239033","reference":"AQW 47380/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-17","answerBy":"2015-07-02","answered":"2015-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of appeals against unsuccessful Individual Funding Request applications in the last twelve months.","answerText":"The criteria used for the consideration of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) application can be found in the Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) policy document at the following link http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Protocol_ECR_and__IFR_arrangements.pdf\n\nThe IFR panel meets weekly and normally requests are considered and a response provided to the referring clinician within 7 days of the request being received. The most recent information regarding the number of appeals against unsuccessful IFR applications is not held centrally.","answerHtml":"The criteria used for the consideration of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) application can be found in the Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) policy document at the following link http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Protocol_ECR_and__IFR_arrangements.pdf
The IFR panel meets weekly and normally requests are considered and a response provided to the referring clinician within 7 days of the request being received. The most recent information regarding the number of appeals against unsuccessful IFR applications is not held centrally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047380%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239033","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239033"}},{"id":"239032","reference":"AQW 47379/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-17","answerBy":"2015-07-02","answered":"2016-01-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what transitional funding has been transferred from the acute/primary care budget to the community care budget, as stated in Transforming Your Care; and for his assessment of the transfererd funds.","answerText":"The transitional funding provided by the Northern Ireland Executive to support the implementation of TYC came from the 2012/13 Invest to Save (ITS) programme and from monies allocated through the Monitoring Rounds process in 2013/14 and 2014/15. No monies were transferred from the acute/primary care or community care budgets as transitional funding.\n\nDuring financial years 2012/13 to 2014/15 transitional funding to the value of £25m has been invested in the implementation of Transforming Your Care.\n\nActivities supported through transitional funding have contributed to the shift of services and associated resources from the acute care setting into primary, community and social care settings. The value of the services and resources shifted was set out in my answer to AQW 46748/11-15.","answerHtml":"The transitional funding provided by the Northern Ireland Executive to support the implementation of TYC came from the 2012/13 Invest to Save (ITS) programme and from monies allocated through the Monitoring Rounds process in 2013/14 and 2014/15. No monies were transferred from the acute/primary care or community care budgets as transitional funding.
During financial years 2012/13 to 2014/15 transitional funding to the value of £25m has been invested in the implementation of Transforming Your Care.
Activities supported through transitional funding have contributed to the shift of services and associated resources from the acute care setting into primary, community and social care settings. The value of the services and resources shifted was set out in my answer to AQW 46748/11-15.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047379%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=239032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=239032"}},{"id":"238784","reference":"AQW 47311/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-16","answerBy":"2015-07-01","answered":"2015-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the (i) maximum; and (ii) minimum time it takes for individuals who have submitted Individual Funding Request applications to be informed of the outcome.","answerText":"The criteria used for the consideration of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) application can be found in the Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) policy document at the following link http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Protocol_ECR_and__IFR_arrangements.pdf\n\nThe IFR panel meets weekly and normally requests are considered and a response provided to the referring clinician within 7 days of the request being received. The most recent information regarding the number of appeals against unsuccessful IFR applications is not held centrally.","answerHtml":"The criteria used for the consideration of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) application can be found in the Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) policy document at the following link http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Protocol_ECR_and__IFR_arrangements.pdf
The IFR panel meets weekly and normally requests are considered and a response provided to the referring clinician within 7 days of the request being received. The most recent information regarding the number of appeals against unsuccessful IFR applications is not held centrally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047311%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238784","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238784"}},{"id":"238782","reference":"AQW 47310/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-16","answerBy":"2015-07-01","answered":"2015-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail all circumstances which would be considered by an Independent Funding Request Panel as demonstrating exceptional reasons, and result in a successful outcome for an Individual Funding Request application.","answerText":"The criteria used for the consideration of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) application can be found in the Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) policy document at the following link http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Protocol_ECR_and__IFR_arrangements.pdf\n\nThe IFR panel meets weekly and normally requests are considered and a response provided to the referring clinician within 7 days of the request being received. The most recent information regarding the number of appeals against unsuccessful IFR applications is not held centrally.","answerHtml":"The criteria used for the consideration of an Individual Funding Request (IFR) application can be found in the Health and Social Care Board’s (HSCB) policy document at the following link http://www.hscbusiness.hscni.net/pdf/Protocol_ECR_and__IFR_arrangements.pdf
The IFR panel meets weekly and normally requests are considered and a response provided to the referring clinician within 7 days of the request being received. The most recent information regarding the number of appeals against unsuccessful IFR applications is not held centrally.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047310%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238782","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238782"}},{"id":"238779","reference":"AQW 47309/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-16","answerBy":"2015-07-01","answered":"2015-08-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether the Health and Social Care Board will assess the need for Ataluren (Translarna) locally, independent of issue or practise in England, following the upcoming publication of the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidelines","answerText":"Ataluren (Translarna) is being evaluated through the NICE Highly Specialised Technologies Programme. NICE anticipate that the publication of the Technology Appraisal (TA) is February 2016. Once published, the guidance will be subject to the process of local endorsement for use in Northern Ireland as set out in the guidance in Circular HSC (SQSD) 02/13.\n\nThe Department’s budget for 2015/16 does not include specific funding for new NICE drugs and in the absence of additional funding the HSCB has indicated it will not be able to fund all new NICE approved drugs.\n\nAs per the guidance, the HSCB is required to individually assess NICE TAs for each new drug and arrive at a decision on implementation. This of course must take account of resource issues as well as the costs and benefits of that drug","answerHtml":"Ataluren (Translarna) is being evaluated through the NICE Highly Specialised Technologies Programme. NICE anticipate that the publication of the Technology Appraisal (TA) is February 2016. Once published, the guidance will be subject to the process of local endorsement for use in Northern Ireland as set out in the guidance in Circular HSC (SQSD) 02/13.
The Department’s budget for 2015/16 does not include specific funding for new NICE drugs and in the absence of additional funding the HSCB has indicated it will not be able to fund all new NICE approved drugs.
As per the guidance, the HSCB is required to individually assess NICE TAs for each new drug and arrive at a decision on implementation. This of course must take account of resource issues as well as the costs and benefits of that drug
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047309%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238779","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238779"}},{"id":"238773","reference":"AQW 47308/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-16","answerBy":"2015-07-01","answered":"2015-09-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what support is in place to allow patients that are receiving treatment through a drugs trial to continue with that treatment once the trial has come to an end.","answerText":"Arrangements for continuation of treatment at the end of a drug trial are considered during the research approval process before the trial commences. Where the patient may benefit from ongoing treatment, every effort is made to make sure that there are arrangements in place to allow this. In a small number of cases where it is not possible to obtain any guarantee of access to treatment at the end of a trial, this is made clear to the patient before they agree to participate. Arrangements for continued treatment at the end of a trial are also considered and approved by an independent research ethics committee before a trial commences.","answerHtml":"Arrangements for continuation of treatment at the end of a drug trial are considered during the research approval process before the trial commences. Where the patient may benefit from ongoing treatment, every effort is made to make sure that there are arrangements in place to allow this. In a small number of cases where it is not possible to obtain any guarantee of access to treatment at the end of a trial, this is made clear to the patient before they agree to participate. Arrangements for continued treatment at the end of a trial are also considered and approved by an independent research ethics committee before a trial commences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047308%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238773"}},{"id":"238754","reference":"AQW 47290/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-16","answerBy":"2015-07-01","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 41683/11-15, for an update on the review of the Supporting People Policy and Legislative Framework; and the expected date of publication.","answerText":"My Department is currently carrying out a review of the Supporting People programme, including its policy and legislative framework. The evidence gathering phase of the review has now been completed and the emerging findings are currently being analysed. A final report with recommendations will be produced in the Autumn which will identify the future direction of the programme.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently carrying out a review of the Supporting People programme, including its policy and legislative framework. The evidence gathering phase of the review has now been completed and the emerging findings are currently being analysed. A final report with recommendations will be produced in the Autumn which will identify the future direction of the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047290%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238754","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238754"}},{"id":"238540","reference":"AQW 47222/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-15","answerBy":"2015-06-30","answered":"2015-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 41764/11-15, for an update on the publication of the Age Strategy.","answerText":"The Active Ageing Strategy is currently being finalised and, subject to Executive approval, will be published in the near future.","answerHtml":"The Active Ageing Strategy is currently being finalised and, subject to Executive approval, will be published in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047222%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238540","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238540"}},{"id":"238539","reference":"AQW 47221/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-15","answerBy":"2015-06-30","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail how his Department is working with the Housing Executive on initiatives to bring empty homes back into use (i) across Northern Ireland; and (ii) in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Departmental officials meet regularly with Housing Executive and Housing Association officials to investigate all available options for bringing empty homes back into use across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department has encouraged the Housing Executive to consider initiatives being used in other jurisdictions and supported them to introduce where appropriate. The Housing Executive’s Empty Homes Unit and website was developed and established a mechanism for reporting empty homes. This has been operating since April 2014, allowing members of the public to report an empty home so that the Housing Executive can take follow up action.\n\nThe Housing Executive has also developed a “Matching Service” similar to the “The Matchmaker Scheme” in England which will aim to match owners of empty homes with people who wish to buy a home. Testing of the IT system is ongoing and it is anticipated that the scheme will launch in September.\n\nThe Housing Executive has also developed proposals for a “repair and lease scheme” and an “ex Housing Executive property pilot scheme”. These were considered by the Department and Departmental economists respectively and were found not to represent value for money. As such, they were not progressed.\n\nThe Department and the Housing Executive will continue to consider initiatives being used in other jurisdictions.","answerHtml":"Departmental officials meet regularly with Housing Executive and Housing Association officials to investigate all available options for bringing empty homes back into use across Northern Ireland.
The Department has encouraged the Housing Executive to consider initiatives being used in other jurisdictions and supported them to introduce where appropriate. The Housing Executive’s Empty Homes Unit and website was developed and established a mechanism for reporting empty homes. This has been operating since April 2014, allowing members of the public to report an empty home so that the Housing Executive can take follow up action.
The Housing Executive has also developed a “Matching Service” similar to the “The Matchmaker Scheme” in England which will aim to match owners of empty homes with people who wish to buy a home. Testing of the IT system is ongoing and it is anticipated that the scheme will launch in September.
The Housing Executive has also developed proposals for a “repair and lease scheme” and an “ex Housing Executive property pilot scheme”. These were considered by the Department and Departmental economists respectively and were found not to represent value for money. As such, they were not progressed.
The Department and the Housing Executive will continue to consider initiatives being used in other jurisdictions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047221%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238539","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238539"}},{"id":"238538","reference":"AQW 47220/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-15","answerBy":"2015-06-30","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail all the initiatives and projects being supported through the Delivering Social Change Fund.","answerText":"Programmes under the Social Investment Fund, the Childcare Fund, the initial six Signature Programmes and subsequent Play and Leisure and the three co-funded Atlantic Philanthropies Signature Programmes sit within the Executive’s Delivering Social Change framework to deliver long lasting social benefits for those in our society who need them most.\n\nDetails on the initiatives and projects that are funded through Delivering Social Change, including the Social Investment Fund and the Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme, are available on the OFMDFM website.\n\nLinks to the relevant website pages are provided below.\n\nhttp://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/signature-programmes.htm\n\nhttp://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/childcare\n\nhttp://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/social-investment-fund.htm","answerHtml":"Programmes under the Social Investment Fund, the Childcare Fund, the initial six Signature Programmes and subsequent Play and Leisure and the three co-funded Atlantic Philanthropies Signature Programmes sit within the Executive’s Delivering Social Change framework to deliver long lasting social benefits for those in our society who need them most.
Details on the initiatives and projects that are funded through Delivering Social Change, including the Social Investment Fund and the Bright Start School Age Childcare Grant Scheme, are available on the OFMDFM website.
Links to the relevant website pages are provided below.
http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/signature-programmes.htm
http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/childcare
http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/social-investment-fund.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047220%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238538","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238538"}},{"id":"238518","reference":"AQW 47219/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-15","answerBy":"2015-06-30","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on her Department's review of the current business rates system; including any progress on setting up an innovation lab.","answerText":"The innovation lab ran between 1 and 4 June 2015. Its purpose was to help develop guiding principles for the review, as well as generating ideas on how the review should be carried out to ensure it is as effective as possible.\n\nIt was attended by representatives from NI Chamber of Commerce (COC), Manufacturing NI, Federation of Small Business (FSB), Northern Ireland Centre for Voluntary Action (NICVA), Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC), Institute of Directors (IOD), the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), Strategic Investment Board (SIB) Local Government and Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation (IRRV). The Lab members also heard presentations from external parties (Cambridge and Birmingham University, NICEP, NICVA, IRRV) and internal parties (Land & Property Services, Strategic Policy Division, Public Spending Directorate).\n\nAs part of the next steps in the process, I am currently considering the findings from the lab, along with draft terms of reference for the review. I will be seeking the views of the Finance Committee before I put the matter to my Executive colleagues.","answerHtml":"The innovation lab ran between 1 and 4 June 2015. Its purpose was to help develop guiding principles for the review, as well as generating ideas on how the review should be carried out to ensure it is as effective as possible.
It was attended by representatives from NI Chamber of Commerce (COC), Manufacturing NI, Federation of Small Business (FSB), Northern Ireland Centre for Voluntary Action (NICVA), Northern Ireland Retail Consortium (NIRC), Institute of Directors (IOD), the Association of Town and City Management (ATCM), Strategic Investment Board (SIB) Local Government and Institute of Revenues Rating and Valuation (IRRV). The Lab members also heard presentations from external parties (Cambridge and Birmingham University, NICEP, NICVA, IRRV) and internal parties (Land & Property Services, Strategic Policy Division, Public Spending Directorate).
As part of the next steps in the process, I am currently considering the findings from the lab, along with draft terms of reference for the review. I will be seeking the views of the Finance Committee before I put the matter to my Executive colleagues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047219%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238518"}},{"id":"238493","reference":"AQW 47197/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-15","answerBy":"2015-06-30","answered":"2015-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 43430/11-15, for their assessment of the importance of developing a children's budgeting pilot to assess the impacts of financial decisions on child prospects and well-being.","answerText":"The issue of budgetary analysis has been raised by the UN Committee of the Rights of the Child and it is recognised that clear information on public expenditure on children can help to illustrate the importance which Government attaches to children’s rights, prospects and wellbeing. Experiences in other countries show that bringing clarity to the public expenditure on children’s services bears results and we are fully committed to this.\n\nNICCY and The Atlantic Philanthropies published their “Fund-Mapping: The Investment of Public Resources in the Wellbeing of Children and Young People in Northern Ireland” report, on 15th October 2015. This formed the basis for discussion at their Investing in Children at a time of Austerity: Developments in Children’s Budgeting conference held on the 16 October 2015.\n\nFund map information is used to aid understanding of how current investments align with key child development outcomes and to maximise opportunities to better coordinate programmes and services different departments and agencies and/or how to improve the commissioning of services.\n\nFollowing the publication of the report we will consider how best to take this matter forward in the light of budgetary constraints and the forthcoming restructuring of Departments.","answerHtml":"The issue of budgetary analysis has been raised by the UN Committee of the Rights of the Child and it is recognised that clear information on public expenditure on children can help to illustrate the importance which Government attaches to children’s rights, prospects and wellbeing. Experiences in other countries show that bringing clarity to the public expenditure on children’s services bears results and we are fully committed to this.
NICCY and The Atlantic Philanthropies published their “Fund-Mapping: The Investment of Public Resources in the Wellbeing of Children and Young People in Northern Ireland” report, on 15th October 2015. This formed the basis for discussion at their Investing in Children at a time of Austerity: Developments in Children’s Budgeting conference held on the 16 October 2015.
Fund map information is used to aid understanding of how current investments align with key child development outcomes and to maximise opportunities to better coordinate programmes and services different departments and agencies and/or how to improve the commissioning of services.
Following the publication of the report we will consider how best to take this matter forward in the light of budgetary constraints and the forthcoming restructuring of Departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047197%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238493"}},{"id":"238463","reference":"AQW 47177/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-12","answerBy":"2015-06-29","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail how the transfer of statutory functions for Outdoor Education Centres to the Education Authority will impact on the sustainability of Woodhall Outdoor Education Centre in Kilrea.","answerText":"The transfer of statutory functions for Outdoor Education Centres to the Education Authority has had no impact on the sustainability of the Woodhall Outdoor Education Centre in Kilrea.\n\nHowever, as part of the implementation of Priorities for Youth, there will be a review of Residential and Outdoor Education Service provision as outlined in the 2015-16 Regional Youth Development Framework.","answerHtml":"The transfer of statutory functions for Outdoor Education Centres to the Education Authority has had no impact on the sustainability of the Woodhall Outdoor Education Centre in Kilrea.
However, as part of the implementation of Priorities for Youth, there will be a review of Residential and Outdoor Education Service provision as outlined in the 2015-16 Regional Youth Development Framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047177%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238463","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238463"}},{"id":"238461","reference":"AQW 47175/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-12","answerBy":"2015-06-29","answered":"2015-08-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 45433/11-15, what consideration his Department has given to the impact on older people in the Claudy area following cuts to the Meals on Wheels service.","answerText":"The Western Health and Social Care Trust has advised that it is currently reviewing its community meals service. As I indicated in my response to AQW 45433/11-15, the review will include an assessment of whether the proposed changes will impact differently or unfairly on different groups of individuals, including those who live within the rural parts of the Trust’s geographical area.","answerHtml":"The Western Health and Social Care Trust has advised that it is currently reviewing its community meals service. As I indicated in my response to AQW 45433/11-15, the review will include an assessment of whether the proposed changes will impact differently or unfairly on different groups of individuals, including those who live within the rural parts of the Trust’s geographical area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047175%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238461","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238461"}},{"id":"238460","reference":"AQW 47174/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-12","answerBy":"2015-06-29","answered":"2015-06-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether (i) all eighteen neighbourhood renewal projects in East Londonderry have received funding for 2015/2016; and (ii) his Department will work with councils to ensure continuity of funding through urban regeneration and community development, beyond 1 April 2016.","answerText":"All eighteen projects, that submitted funding applications, have been successful in receiving Neighbourhood Renewal funding in East Londonderry for 2015/16.\n\nAs you are aware, successful passage of the Regeneration Bill will confer powers and budgets to Councils for urban regeneration and community development in their areas. It will be for councils to decide how to best address the needs of their areas through their respective community plans. There is no obligation on Councils to replicate the current urban regeneration and community development projects undertaken by DSD. This is in line with the whole ethos of local government reform where the Executive has decided that decisions affecting local people should, where possible, be made at a local level.\n\nHowever, I remain committed to the objectives that my Department set out in the Urban Regeneration and Community Development Framework published in 2013, which has been shared with councils along with my department’s experiences and knowledge. My Department will retain overarching policy responsibility for these matters and Councils will be required to have regard to any guidance issued by the Department relating to the exercise of these functions. The Department will also put in place appropriate and proportionate monitoring arrangements.\n\nI am also committed to working with Councils in relation to the creation of community plans and to that end my officials have been engaging directly with Councils to discuss the Departments role in each of the community planning processes.","answerHtml":"All eighteen projects, that submitted funding applications, have been successful in receiving Neighbourhood Renewal funding in East Londonderry for 2015/16.
As you are aware, successful passage of the Regeneration Bill will confer powers and budgets to Councils for urban regeneration and community development in their areas. It will be for councils to decide how to best address the needs of their areas through their respective community plans. There is no obligation on Councils to replicate the current urban regeneration and community development projects undertaken by DSD. This is in line with the whole ethos of local government reform where the Executive has decided that decisions affecting local people should, where possible, be made at a local level.
However, I remain committed to the objectives that my Department set out in the Urban Regeneration and Community Development Framework published in 2013, which has been shared with councils along with my department’s experiences and knowledge. My Department will retain overarching policy responsibility for these matters and Councils will be required to have regard to any guidance issued by the Department relating to the exercise of these functions. The Department will also put in place appropriate and proportionate monitoring arrangements.
I am also committed to working with Councils in relation to the creation of community plans and to that end my officials have been engaging directly with Councils to discuss the Departments role in each of the community planning processes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047174%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238460","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238460"}},{"id":"238457","reference":"AQW 47171/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-12","answerBy":"2015-06-29","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel pursuant to AQW 45339/11-15 for her assessment of the economic impact of introducing a mandatory Living Wage in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The UK Government sets the rate of the National Minimum Wage based on recommendations made by the Low Pay Commission. My Department has not undertaken a separate analysis of the economic impact in Northern Ireland of the setting of this at the rate of the ‘living wage’.","answerHtml":"The UK Government sets the rate of the National Minimum Wage based on recommendations made by the Low Pay Commission. My Department has not undertaken a separate analysis of the economic impact in Northern Ireland of the setting of this at the rate of the ‘living wage’.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047171%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238457","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238457"}},{"id":"238428","reference":"AQW 47161/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-12","answerBy":"2015-06-17","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Northern Ireland Assembly Commission","departmentId":"2","minister":"Assembly Commission","question":"To ask the Assembly Commission for an assessment of the use of headsets during tours of Parliament Buildings, to enhance the visitor experience.","answerText":"In order to enhance its visitor experience, the Northern Ireland Assembly purchased in 2011 headsets designed to support tour guides with large and/or hearing impaired groups during tours. As stated on the “Tour of Parliament Buildings Booking Form”, headsets for guests with hearing impairments are available from the Events Office. The form is available on the Assembly’s website.\n\nIn terms of providing translation for visitors, the Events office will always work with event organisers to provide information on translation services and contacts. Currently, we are not resourced to provide the service in-house due to the vast number of languages potentially requested and, requests are rare: indicative of 1 or 2 per year for tours. Therefore it would be cost prohibitive to provide a full translation service and / or headsets at this stage. However, the Northern Ireland Assembly provides tour brochures in 11 different languages also available from the Events Office, namely: Polish, Lithuanian, Irish (Gaelic), Portuguese, Slovak, Chinese, German, Italian, French, Spanish & Ulster Scots.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Assembly is also exploring the feasibility of developing an “app” designed to provide a translation service during tours.","answerHtml":"In order to enhance its visitor experience, the Northern Ireland Assembly purchased in 2011 headsets designed to support tour guides with large and/or hearing impaired groups during tours. As stated on the “Tour of Parliament Buildings Booking Form”, headsets for guests with hearing impairments are available from the Events Office. The form is available on the Assembly’s website.
In terms of providing translation for visitors, the Events office will always work with event organisers to provide information on translation services and contacts. Currently, we are not resourced to provide the service in-house due to the vast number of languages potentially requested and, requests are rare: indicative of 1 or 2 per year for tours. Therefore it would be cost prohibitive to provide a full translation service and / or headsets at this stage. However, the Northern Ireland Assembly provides tour brochures in 11 different languages also available from the Events Office, namely: Polish, Lithuanian, Irish (Gaelic), Portuguese, Slovak, Chinese, German, Italian, French, Spanish & Ulster Scots.
The Northern Ireland Assembly is also exploring the feasibility of developing an “app” designed to provide a translation service during tours.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047161%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238428","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238428"}},{"id":"238227","reference":"AQW 47062/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-11","answerBy":"2015-06-26","answered":"2015-08-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the (i) applications for funding received; and (ii) funding allocated by Disability Sport NI for projects in the (a) Limavady; (b) Claudy; (c) Dungiven; (d) Greysteel; and (e) Ballykelly areas, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"My Department and Sport NI are committed to offering sports and leisure opportunities to a range of under-represented groups, including those with disabilities. This is demonstrated through a specific target in the Department’s Strategy for Sport, Sport Matters, to increase participation rates in sport and physical recreation among those with a disability. DCAL and Sport NI work with a range of organisations to offer such opportunities amongst those with Disabilities.\n\nOver the last three years, up to March 2015, Disability Sport NI (DSNI), has received total funding of £1,029,726 from Sport NI to carry out activities that will support and develop disability sport at all levels and across the north of Ireland. The table at Annex A lists the DSNI programmes and funding awarded.\n\nIn addition, during the same period, Sport NI awarded £90,635 directly to sports clubs and community/voluntary/charity organisations through the Active Awards for Sports programme, to enable increased access to sport and physical activity projects for those with disabilities, at a grassroots/local level. Groups from the North West area that received funding under this programme are detailed at Annex B.\n\nGenerally, Sport NI will award funding to a governing body, including DSNI, which then exercises its discretion when making the investment. As such, neither DCAL, nor Sport NI, hold information on third party organisations which have applied to, or been allocated funding from, DSNI.\n\nAnnex A\n\n2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\tTotal\nDisability Mainstreaming policy\t£170,000\t£165,000\t£162,500\t£497,500\nBuilding Sport (Craigavon IFI)\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£30,000\t£90,000\nInvesting in Performance Sport / Performance Focus\t£10,200\t£45,000\t£45,000\t£100,200\nUplifts & Disability 5 Star Challenge\t£40,246\t£143,750\t£45,000\t£228,996\nActive Clubs\tN/A\tN/A\t£25,000\t£25,000\nAthlete Investment Programme\t£34,030\t£24,000\t£30,000\t£88,030\nTOTAL\t£284,476\t£407,750\t£337,500\t£1,029,726\n\nAnnex B\n\nNorth West Funding Through Active Awards for Sport\n\nInvestment Phase\tOrganisation Name\tAward\tGeographical Area Served\tSport\nRound 1\nMarch 2013\tColeraine Cougars Special Olympics Club\t£6,830\tColeraine, Limavady, Moyle and Ballymoney\tBasketball\nRound 1\nMarch 2013\tDungiven Celtic FC\t£4,860\tColeraine, Limavady, Moyle and Ballymoney\tAssociation Football\nRound 1\nMarch 2013\tColeraine and District Riding for the Disabled Association\t£4,325\tColeraine, Limavady, Moyle and Ballymoney\tEquestrianism\\ Riding for Disabled\nTOTAL\t\t£16,015","answerHtml":"My Department and Sport NI are committed to offering sports and leisure opportunities to a range of under-represented groups, including those with disabilities. This is demonstrated through a specific target in the Department’s Strategy for Sport, Sport Matters, to increase participation rates in sport and physical recreation among those with a disability. DCAL and Sport NI work with a range of organisations to offer such opportunities amongst those with Disabilities.
Over the last three years, up to March 2015, Disability Sport NI (DSNI), has received total funding of £1,029,726 from Sport NI to carry out activities that will support and develop disability sport at all levels and across the north of Ireland. The table at Annex A lists the DSNI programmes and funding awarded.
In addition, during the same period, Sport NI awarded £90,635 directly to sports clubs and community/voluntary/charity organisations through the Active Awards for Sports programme, to enable increased access to sport and physical activity projects for those with disabilities, at a grassroots/local level. Groups from the North West area that received funding under this programme are detailed at Annex B.
Generally, Sport NI will award funding to a governing body, including DSNI, which then exercises its discretion when making the investment. As such, neither DCAL, nor Sport NI, hold information on third party organisations which have applied to, or been allocated funding from, DSNI.
Annex A
| 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 | Total | |
| Disability Mainstreaming policy | £170,000 | £165,000 | £162,500 | £497,500 |
| Building Sport (Craigavon IFI) | £30,000 | £30,000 | £30,000 | £90,000 |
| Investing in Performance Sport / Performance Focus | £10,200 | £45,000 | £45,000 | £100,200 |
| Uplifts & Disability 5 Star Challenge | £40,246 | £143,750 | £45,000 | £228,996 |
| Active Clubs | N/A | N/A | £25,000 | £25,000 |
| Athlete Investment Programme | £34,030 | £24,000 | £30,000 | £88,030 |
| TOTAL | £284,476 | £407,750 | £337,500 | £1,029,726 |
Annex B
North West Funding Through Active Awards for Sport
| Investment Phase | Organisation Name | Award | Geographical Area Served | Sport |
| Round 1 March 2013 | Coleraine Cougars Special Olympics Club | £6,830 | Coleraine, Limavady, Moyle and Ballymoney | Basketball |
| Round 1 March 2013 | Dungiven Celtic FC | £4,860 | Coleraine, Limavady, Moyle and Ballymoney | Association Football |
| Round 1 March 2013 | Coleraine and District Riding for the Disabled Association | £4,325 | Coleraine, Limavady, Moyle and Ballymoney | Equestrianism\\ Riding for Disabled |
| TOTAL | £16,015 |
Given the 2015/16 budget outcome, resources are not currently directly available in the budget allocated to my Department to extend the Pathways Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) scheme into the new European Social Fund (ESF) Programme 2014-2020. Taking into account the low uptake of EMA in the previous round of projects and the significant funding from ESF, this should not provide an onerous burden to projects.
Pathways EMA was introduced as one of a series of measures under the Pathways to Success strategy, supported by a ring-fenced and time-limited budget secured under the Executive’s Economy and Jobs fund in 2012. These programmes, and the associated budget, came to an end on 31 March 2015.
Organisations that were successful in the recent call for applications to the ESF Programme are free to utilise the overhead cost allocations they are receiving to cover expenditure such as allowances for participants. Examples were given of the type of additional costs which could be claimed in the revised simplified model, and it was made clear in the guidance, that was made available when the call for applications was launched, that any such expenses should be included in the 40% overhead costs. It is the expectation of my Department that EMA will be paid out of this 40% overhead costs allowance.
The following is an excerpt from the guidance which issued to organisations in late November 2014 prior to the closing date for receipt of applications on 6 January 2015.
It should be noted that the 40% ESF indirect Costs funding is to be used for all other costs associated with the delivery of your project and this should include participants’ allowances, childcare, staff travel, rent, etc.
Therefore, projects were made aware in writing well in advance of the closing date that participant costs could be included and claimed for in the indirect costs allocation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047061%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238223","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238223"}},{"id":"238221","reference":"AQW 47059/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-11","answerBy":"2015-06-26","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning (i) whether the Pathways for Young People Education Maintenance Allowance was included in the formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy: and (ii) to detail the nature of its evaluation.","answerText":"The formal interim evaluation conducted a range of investigations with young people and the organisations representing them. It did not find any significant opinion, either way, on the issue of incentives being useful or not in attracting young people. This finding fits with our experience that not all organisations availed of the opportunity to use allowances to incentivise participation, even though there was funding available to do so.\n\nThe formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy, and the various approaches within this to dealing with the issue of young people not in education, employment or training, was received in April 2015. This overall evaluation includes six main strands of work, including the Collaboration and Innovation Fund, Local Employment Intermediary Service, Community Family Support, Youth Employment Scheme and First Start. The evaluation was undertaken by the Centre for Economic & Social Inclusion, a London based not-for-profit-company.","answerHtml":"The formal interim evaluation conducted a range of investigations with young people and the organisations representing them. It did not find any significant opinion, either way, on the issue of incentives being useful or not in attracting young people. This finding fits with our experience that not all organisations availed of the opportunity to use allowances to incentivise participation, even though there was funding available to do so.
The formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy, and the various approaches within this to dealing with the issue of young people not in education, employment or training, was received in April 2015. This overall evaluation includes six main strands of work, including the Collaboration and Innovation Fund, Local Employment Intermediary Service, Community Family Support, Youth Employment Scheme and First Start. The evaluation was undertaken by the Centre for Economic & Social Inclusion, a London based not-for-profit-company.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047059%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238221"}},{"id":"238215","reference":"AQW 47058/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-11","answerBy":"2015-06-26","answered":"2015-06-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for his assessment of Ofcom's annnouncement that broadband providers will have to give accurate information on broadband speeds to customers, with the freedom to leave contracts if that service is not received; and whether this regulation will be implemented locally.","answerText":"I welcome this announcement by Ofcom.\n\nAccurate information will help consumers with their choice of broadband provider. It is, however, important to recognise that this announcement is not a regulation as such, but a strengthening of the industry’s Code of Practice.\n\nAs Ofcom is the communications regulator for the whole of the UK, Northern Ireland consumers will also benefit.","answerHtml":"I welcome this announcement by Ofcom.
Accurate information will help consumers with their choice of broadband provider. It is, however, important to recognise that this announcement is not a regulation as such, but a strengthening of the industry’s Code of Practice.
As Ofcom is the communications regulator for the whole of the UK, Northern Ireland consumers will also benefit.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047058%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238215","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238215"}},{"id":"238209","reference":"AQW 47056/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-11","answerBy":"2015-06-26","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail (i) how the impact of the Pathway to Success Strategy has been evaluated (ii) the outcomes of any evaluation; and (iii) whether this has been published.","answerText":"As part of the implementation of the Pathways to Success Strategy, my Department initiated a formal evaluation which was undertaken by the Centre for Economic & Social Inclusion (CESI), a London based not-for-profit-company dedicated to tackling disadvantage and promoting social inclusion in the labour market.\n\nSix key DEL programmes were considered in the evaluation of the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy, namely:\n\nCommunity Family Support Programme;\n\nLocal Employment Intermediary Service;\n\nCollaboration and Innovation Fund;\n\nSteps 2 Success (First Start);\n\nYouth Employment Scheme; and,\n\nTraining for Success, Level One.\n\nEach of the programmes was assessed from the perspective of performance data against objectives, and from the perspective of participant experiences. The evaluation also covered the implementation architecture and a cost/benefit analysis.\n\nCESI have now produced a final draft. Once I have considered the evaluation and its implications for a broad range of youth interventions within my Department, the evaluation will be posted on the DEL web-site, along with, in due course, a refresh of the current Pathways Strategy.","answerHtml":"As part of the implementation of the Pathways to Success Strategy, my Department initiated a formal evaluation which was undertaken by the Centre for Economic & Social Inclusion (CESI), a London based not-for-profit-company dedicated to tackling disadvantage and promoting social inclusion in the labour market.
Six key DEL programmes were considered in the evaluation of the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy, namely:
Community Family Support Programme;
Local Employment Intermediary Service;
Collaboration and Innovation Fund;
Steps 2 Success (First Start);
Youth Employment Scheme; and,
Training for Success, Level One.
Each of the programmes was assessed from the perspective of performance data against objectives, and from the perspective of participant experiences. The evaluation also covered the implementation architecture and a cost/benefit analysis.
CESI have now produced a final draft. Once I have considered the evaluation and its implications for a broad range of youth interventions within my Department, the evaluation will be posted on the DEL web-site, along with, in due course, a refresh of the current Pathways Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047056%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238209"}},{"id":"238124","reference":"AQW 47024/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-10","answerBy":"2015-06-25","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of 'Meet the Buyer' events which have been facilitated by the Central Procurement Directorate, in each of the last three years, broken down by Constituency.","answerText":"CPD does not directly facilitate 'Meet the Buyer' events; however it participates in Meet the Buyer and supplier awareness / training events which are facilitated by a broad range of bodies. CPD participates in these events by providing an overview of public procurement policy and processes, and highlighting tendering opportunities for central government contracts.\n\nThe number of 'Meet the Buyer' events in which CPD has participated, in each of the last three years, broken down by Constituency, is detailed in the attached table.\n\n‘Meet the Buyer’ events with CPD participation 2012-2015 by constituency\n\n2012\nConstituency\tEvents\n\nFoyle\t2\nMid Ulster\t1\nEast Londonderry\t1\nRoI\t2\n\n2013\nConstituency\tEvents\nEast Londonderry\t1\nFoyle\t2\nWest Tyrone\t1\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t1\nSouth Antrim\t2\nNewry & Armagh\t1\nBelfast South\t2\nUpper Bann\t1\nSouth Down\t1\nRoI\t2\n\n2014\nConstituency\tEvents\nMid Ulster\t1\nNewry & Armagh\t4\nLagan Valley\t1\nBelfast South\t2\nRoI\t1\n\n2015\nConstituency\tEvents\nMid Ulster\t1\nNewry & Armagh\t1\nSouth Antrim\t1\nBelfast South\t1\n\nTotal 2012-2015\t33","answerHtml":"CPD does not directly facilitate 'Meet the Buyer' events; however it participates in Meet the Buyer and supplier awareness / training events which are facilitated by a broad range of bodies. CPD participates in these events by providing an overview of public procurement policy and processes, and highlighting tendering opportunities for central government contracts.
The number of 'Meet the Buyer' events in which CPD has participated, in each of the last three years, broken down by Constituency, is detailed in the attached table.
‘Meet the Buyer’ events with CPD participation 2012-2015 by constituency
| 2012 | |
| Constituency | Events |
| Foyle | 2 |
| Mid Ulster | 1 |
| East Londonderry | 1 |
| RoI | 2 |
| 2013 | |
| Constituency | Events |
| East Londonderry | 1 |
| Foyle | 2 |
| West Tyrone | 1 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 1 |
| South Antrim | 2 |
| Newry & Armagh | 1 |
| Belfast South | 2 |
| Upper Bann | 1 |
| South Down | 1 |
| RoI | 2 |
| 2014 | |
| Constituency | Events |
| Mid Ulster | 1 |
| Newry & Armagh | 4 |
| Lagan Valley | 1 |
| Belfast South | 2 |
| RoI | 1 |
| 2015 | |
| Constituency | Events |
| Mid Ulster | 1 |
| Newry & Armagh | 1 |
| South Antrim | 1 |
| Belfast South | 1 |
| Total 2012-2015 | 33 |
InterTradeIreland, a North South body jointly funded by my Department and the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in the Republic of Ireland, worked closely with my officials and their co-sponsor department to review and implement the recommendations of the OECD report.
InterTradeIreland, through its programmes and networking activity, maintain the lead role in promoting greater involvement of business, business associations, universities and technology institutes, where there is an advantage in all-island trade and business development.
This will continue to be done through InterTradeIreland’s innovation programme, all-island research steering groups, interactions with FundSME, the accountancy bodies, the venture capital association, Small Firms Association, Enterprise bodies and Local Enterprise Organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047022%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238121"}},{"id":"238120","reference":"AQW 47021/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-10","answerBy":"2015-06-25","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 46217/11-15, when the public consultation phase will take place, and the draft strategy will be available.","answerText":"I intend to go out to public consultation on the new 10 year Accessible Transport Strategy in July 2015. At that stage the draft strategy will be available for comment.","answerHtml":"I intend to go out to public consultation on the new 10 year Accessible Transport Strategy in July 2015. At that stage the draft strategy will be available for comment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047021%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238120"}},{"id":"238119","reference":"AQW 47020/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-10","answerBy":"2015-06-25","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 46216/11-15, to detail the groups that his Department has engaged with in the pre-consultation phase.","answerText":"During the pre-consultation stage on the Accessible Transport Strategy my officials engaged in discussions with a number of organisations as set out below. In addition to meetings, this engagement included participation in focus groups organised by a number of these organisations to seek the views from a wider range of individuals and interest groups.\n\n1. Age Friendly Belfast\n\n2. Action Mental Health – New Horizons\n\n3. Action on Hearing Loss\n\n4. Barnardos\n\n5. Disability Action\n\n6. Guide Dogs in Northern Ireland\n\n7. IMTAC (Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee)\n\n8. MENCAP\n\n9. National Autistic Society\n\n10. Omnibus Partnership\n\n11. Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)\n\n12. The Cedar Foundation\n\n13. The Consumer Council\n\nAt the commencement of the development process, officials also contacted 19 other stakeholder groups who did not respond to my department’s offer for pre- consultation engagement.","answerHtml":"During the pre-consultation stage on the Accessible Transport Strategy my officials engaged in discussions with a number of organisations as set out below. In addition to meetings, this engagement included participation in focus groups organised by a number of these organisations to seek the views from a wider range of individuals and interest groups.
1. Age Friendly Belfast
2. Action Mental Health – New Horizons
3. Action on Hearing Loss
4. Barnardos
5. Disability Action
6. Guide Dogs in Northern Ireland
7. IMTAC (Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee)
8. MENCAP
9. National Autistic Society
10. Omnibus Partnership
11. Royal National Institute for the Blind (RNIB)
12. The Cedar Foundation
13. The Consumer Council
At the commencement of the development process, officials also contacted 19 other stakeholder groups who did not respond to my department’s offer for pre- consultation engagement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047020%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238119","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238119"}},{"id":"238118","reference":"AQW 47019/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-10","answerBy":"2015-06-25","answered":"2015-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 46309/11-15 and given the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety issued a paper on 6 March 2015 seeking agreement to proceed to public consultation on the draft Adoption and Children Bill, to detail why this has not been tabled for consideration and when this is likely to happen.","answerText":"Executive business and all aspects of the Executive decision making process are confidential.","answerHtml":"Executive business and all aspects of the Executive decision making process are confidential.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2047019%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238118","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238118"}},{"id":"237910","reference":"AQW 46968/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-09","answerBy":"2015-06-24","answered":"2015-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the process following the cancellation of an outpatient appointment within three days of the visit; and whether allowances are made for (i) older people who have appointments; and (ii) extenuating circumstances.","answerText":"If a patient cancels their appointment, they will be given a second appointment, which should be within 6 weeks of the original appointment date. If a second appointment is cancelled, the patient will not normally be offered a third opportunity and will be referred to their clinician. Extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration, for example bereavement, when deciding whether to offer a third appointment. While there are no arrangements specific to older people; HSC Trusts should ensure that vulnerable adults who cancel their outpatient appointment have access to an appropriate healthcare professional to provide assistance.","answerHtml":"If a patient cancels their appointment, they will be given a second appointment, which should be within 6 weeks of the original appointment date. If a second appointment is cancelled, the patient will not normally be offered a third opportunity and will be referred to their clinician. Extenuating circumstances will be taken into consideration, for example bereavement, when deciding whether to offer a third appointment. While there are no arrangements specific to older people; HSC Trusts should ensure that vulnerable adults who cancel their outpatient appointment have access to an appropriate healthcare professional to provide assistance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046968%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237910"}},{"id":"237909","reference":"AQW 46967/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-09","answerBy":"2015-06-24","answered":"2015-06-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of weekly Community Transport trips which have been cancelled due to budget constraints since January 2015, broken down by Partnership.","answerText":"No trips have been cancelled by the partnerships but passengers have cancelled trips.","answerHtml":"No trips have been cancelled by the partnerships but passengers have cancelled trips.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046967%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237909","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237909"}},{"id":"237908","reference":"AQW 46966/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-09","answerBy":"2015-06-24","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of people who (i) are eligible for; and (ii) travel using a 60 plus smartpass, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The eligibility criteria for the 60+ SmartPass is that an applicant meets both the age requirement of 60 and over and that they are a permanent resident of Northern Ireland.\n\nThe number of people using a 60+ SmartPass is not available by constituency however as at the 31 March 2015 a total of 62,754 active 60+ SmartPasses were in circulation. In 2014/15 a total of 56,938 individuals used their 60+ SmartPass.","answerHtml":"The eligibility criteria for the 60+ SmartPass is that an applicant meets both the age requirement of 60 and over and that they are a permanent resident of Northern Ireland.
The number of people using a 60+ SmartPass is not available by constituency however as at the 31 March 2015 a total of 62,754 active 60+ SmartPasses were in circulation. In 2014/15 a total of 56,938 individuals used their 60+ SmartPass.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046966%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237908","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237908"}},{"id":"237907","reference":"AQW 46965/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-09","answerBy":"2015-06-24","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether (i) immediate; or (ii) future cuts to his departmental budget will impact upon the 60 plus smartpass.","answerText":"Free travel on public transport for the over 60s and other vulnerable groups was introduced as an Executive Priority and is currently a target within the Programme for Government. I fully support the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which includes the 60+ SmartPass as it contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and has played an important part in revitalising Public Transport.\n\nI recognise that additional funding for concessionary fares was provided to the Department in the budget but it is now estimated that this will not be sufficient to finance the total costs for this year. The popularity of the scheme means its continued existence will rely upon continued funding support from the Executive.","answerHtml":"Free travel on public transport for the over 60s and other vulnerable groups was introduced as an Executive Priority and is currently a target within the Programme for Government. I fully support the Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme, which includes the 60+ SmartPass as it contributes in a very positive way to reducing social isolation for older people and has played an important part in revitalising Public Transport.
I recognise that additional funding for concessionary fares was provided to the Department in the budget but it is now estimated that this will not be sufficient to finance the total costs for this year. The popularity of the scheme means its continued existence will rely upon continued funding support from the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046965%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237907"}},{"id":"237906","reference":"AQW 46964/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-09","answerBy":"2015-06-24","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development (i) to outline the ways in which new clients can access the Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas project; (ii) what is the eligibility criteria; and (iii) to define rural in this context.","answerText":"The Project has been very successful with over 14,500 households visited to date and a further 2,600 scheduled to be visited in this financial year.\n\n(i) The Project is delivered on the ground by 13 local community based organisations and they utilise a wide range of methods to penetrate their local areas in seeking out those most in need including: flyers, community engagement, church and community notices, talks to various community groupings, engagement with local GP’s, District Nurses, delivery personnel, Councillors and MLA’s. In recent times more people are self referring for a MARA visit and potential new clients can do so using the list in the table below.\n\nList of MARA Lead Delivery Organisation\n\nZone\tDistrict Council Areas\tOrganisation\tProject Manager Contact\tContact Numbers\n1\tBanbridge\tTyrone Antrim Down Armagh (TADA)\tSiobhan O’Neill\t028 3839 8888\n2\tCookstown\nMagherafelt\tCookstown and Western Shores Area Network (CWSAN)\tNuala Kildunn\t028 8773 8845\n028 7963 7865\n3\tDown\tCounty Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN)\tNuala McElroy\t028 4461 2311\n4\tDerry, Strabane\nLimavady\tRural North West Community Support (RNWCS)\tPatricia McNulty\t028 8166 2588\n5\tMoyle, Antrim\nLarne, Ballymena\tNorth Antrim Community Network (NACN)\tSusan McLaughlin\t028 2177 2100\n028 2177 1155\n6\tOmagh\tOmagh Forum for Rural Associations (OFRA)\tCarol Conway\t028 8225 1559\n7\tBallymoney\nColeraine\tCauseway Rural Urban Network (CRUN)\tLorna O’Neill\t028 7034 4934\n8\tDungannon\nArmagh\tCommunity Organisations of South Tyrone and Areas (COSTA)\tClare Davidson\t028 8555 6880\n9\tNewry & Mourne Craigavon\tSouth Down Family Health Initiative (SDFHI)\tAnouska Kenny\t028 3083 5764\n10\tArds & Castlereagh\tCounty Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN)\tWendy Campbell\t028 9182 8884\n12\tLisburn\tTyrone Antrim Down Armagh (TADA)\tLycrecia McGeary\t028 3839 8888\n13\tCarrickgergus & Newtownabbey\tSouth Antrim Community Network (SACN)\tAnne Thompson\t028 9447 8645\n11/14\tFermanagh\tFermanagh Rural Community Network (FRCN)\tRachel Elliott\t028 6632 7006\n\n(ii) MARA is targeted at all vulnerable rural dwellers.\n\n(iii) MARA continues to be implemented across all 286 rural super output areas, as defined by NISRA, when this phase of the project commenced in 2012.","answerHtml":"The Project has been very successful with over 14,500 households visited to date and a further 2,600 scheduled to be visited in this financial year.
(i) The Project is delivered on the ground by 13 local community based organisations and they utilise a wide range of methods to penetrate their local areas in seeking out those most in need including: flyers, community engagement, church and community notices, talks to various community groupings, engagement with local GP’s, District Nurses, delivery personnel, Councillors and MLA’s. In recent times more people are self referring for a MARA visit and potential new clients can do so using the list in the table below.
List of MARA Lead Delivery Organisation
| Zone | District Council Areas | Organisation | Project Manager Contact | Contact Numbers |
| 1 | Banbridge | Tyrone Antrim Down Armagh (TADA) | Siobhan O’Neill | 028 3839 8888 |
| 2 | Cookstown Magherafelt | Cookstown and Western Shores Area Network (CWSAN) | Nuala Kildunn | 028 8773 8845 028 7963 7865 |
| 3 | Down | County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN) | Nuala McElroy | 028 4461 2311 |
| 4 | Derry, Strabane Limavady | Rural North West Community Support (RNWCS) | Patricia McNulty | 028 8166 2588 |
| 5 | Moyle, Antrim Larne, Ballymena | North Antrim Community Network (NACN) | Susan McLaughlin | 028 2177 2100 028 2177 1155 |
| 6 | Omagh | Omagh Forum for Rural Associations (OFRA) | Carol Conway | 028 8225 1559 |
| 7 | Ballymoney Coleraine | Causeway Rural Urban Network (CRUN) | Lorna O’Neill | 028 7034 4934 |
| 8 | Dungannon Armagh | Community Organisations of South Tyrone and Areas (COSTA) | Clare Davidson | 028 8555 6880 |
| 9 | Newry & Mourne Craigavon | South Down Family Health Initiative (SDFHI) | Anouska Kenny | 028 3083 5764 |
| 10 | Ards & Castlereagh | County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN) | Wendy Campbell | 028 9182 8884 |
| 12 | Lisburn | Tyrone Antrim Down Armagh (TADA) | Lycrecia McGeary | 028 3839 8888 |
| 13 | Carrickgergus & Newtownabbey | South Antrim Community Network (SACN) | Anne Thompson | 028 9447 8645 |
| 11/14 | Fermanagh | Fermanagh Rural Community Network (FRCN) | Rachel Elliott | 028 6632 7006 |
(ii) MARA is targeted at all vulnerable rural dwellers.
(iii) MARA continues to be implemented across all 286 rural super output areas, as defined by NISRA, when this phase of the project commenced in 2012.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046964%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237906","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237906"}},{"id":"237728","reference":"AQW 46898/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-08","answerBy":"2015-06-23","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 46077/11-15, to detail the number of adult carers within each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The information requested is not available as Health and Social Care Trusts do not keep a register of carers.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available as Health and Social Care Trusts do not keep a register of carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046898%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237728","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237728"}},{"id":"237726","reference":"AQW 46897/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-08","answerBy":"2015-06-23","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 45881/11-15, to detail how his Department engages directly with vulnerable adults and their families when considering their individual needs during the commissioning process.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive engages with vulnerable adults and their families in a number of ways, both directly and indirectly. This engagement informs the development of services and consequently what future services are required.\n\nThrough the Quality Assessment Framework (QAF) the Housing Executive monitors how service providers engage with current and prospective service users and their families to ensure their needs are being meet.\n\nWhen jointly commissioning new services the Housing Executive can engage with service users at existing similar services and survey them on how future services should be developed and what improvements they would like to see for other service users. Those views are then considered in the design and accommodation specifications of new services.\n\nThe Housing Executive is represented on a number of groups at which service users and their families are also represented. The Housing Executive regularly provides feedback on issues raised to local commissioning groups for discussion.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Housing Executive engages with vulnerable adults and their families in a number of ways, both directly and indirectly. This engagement informs the development of services and consequently what future services are required.
Through the Quality Assessment Framework (QAF) the Housing Executive monitors how service providers engage with current and prospective service users and their families to ensure their needs are being meet.
When jointly commissioning new services the Housing Executive can engage with service users at existing similar services and survey them on how future services should be developed and what improvements they would like to see for other service users. Those views are then considered in the design and accommodation specifications of new services.
The Housing Executive is represented on a number of groups at which service users and their families are also represented. The Housing Executive regularly provides feedback on issues raised to local commissioning groups for discussion.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046897%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237726"}},{"id":"237725","reference":"AQW 46896/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-08","answerBy":"2015-06-23","answered":"2015-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 46077/11-15, to detail the number of applications received, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The information requested is not available and could only be provided at disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available and could only be provided at disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046896%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237725","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237725"}},{"id":"237724","reference":"AQW 46895/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-08","answerBy":"2015-06-23","answered":"2015-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 45872/11-15, to detail the intended publication date of the report on the delivery of the Disability Stategy for 2013/14.","answerText":"Subject to Executive agreement, the report on the delivery of the Executive’s Disability Strategy, setting out the actions that all departments undertook during 2013/14, will be published in the near future.","answerHtml":"Subject to Executive agreement, the report on the delivery of the Executive’s Disability Strategy, setting out the actions that all departments undertook during 2013/14, will be published in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046895%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237724"}},{"id":"237720","reference":"AQW 46892/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-08","answerBy":"2015-06-23","answered":"2015-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 46074/11-15, to detail the amount of funding received by central hubs in (i) Coleraine; (ii) Portstewart; and (iii) Limavady through the North West Socio Economic Development Programme, since its inception.","answerText":"Through the North West Socio Economic Development Programme, a number of cultural hubs received funding to purchase high tech equipment and software.\n\nIn Coleraine, the Ballysally Youth and Community Centre received £20,000 for equipment including laptops, iPads and other music equipment. In Portstewart, the Flowerfield Centre received £10,000 for equipment including a 3D scanner and printer. In Limavady, St Mary’s School received £30,000 for computers, camera equipment and printers, whilst the Glens Community Association received £8,000 for iPads.\n\nIn addition to funding for Cultural Hubs, Coleraine Borough Council also received £100,000 to procure a mobile stage facility for use by all communities in the Borough for community festivals and events in their local areas and estates and a further £20,000 to deliver the WOMAD Coleraine ‘Culture of Peace’ Legacy Programme.\n\nLimavady Borough Council received £20,000 to deliver a cultural programme of events. The Stendhal Festival in Limavady also received £100,000 for site management and production equipment and a £30,000 resource grant to assist with the running of the 2015 festival, whilst the Dannyboy Jazz and Blues Festival received £26,400 for equipment.","answerHtml":"Through the North West Socio Economic Development Programme, a number of cultural hubs received funding to purchase high tech equipment and software.
In Coleraine, the Ballysally Youth and Community Centre received £20,000 for equipment including laptops, iPads and other music equipment. In Portstewart, the Flowerfield Centre received £10,000 for equipment including a 3D scanner and printer. In Limavady, St Mary’s School received £30,000 for computers, camera equipment and printers, whilst the Glens Community Association received £8,000 for iPads.
In addition to funding for Cultural Hubs, Coleraine Borough Council also received £100,000 to procure a mobile stage facility for use by all communities in the Borough for community festivals and events in their local areas and estates and a further £20,000 to deliver the WOMAD Coleraine ‘Culture of Peace’ Legacy Programme.
Limavady Borough Council received £20,000 to deliver a cultural programme of events. The Stendhal Festival in Limavady also received £100,000 for site management and production equipment and a £30,000 resource grant to assist with the running of the 2015 festival, whilst the Dannyboy Jazz and Blues Festival received £26,400 for equipment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046892%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237720","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237720"}},{"id":"237453","reference":"AQW 46754/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-05","answerBy":"2015-06-22","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 43284/11-15, to detail the process for assessing applications.","answerText":"In this difficult financial climate my Department’s aim was to maximise the delivery of high quality services to the most disadvantaged though the introduction of a process that delivered within timeframe, ensured funding was prioritised against the highest quality projects, and allowed for a consistent and transparent process. Applications were sought from all existing projects and were prioritised against the following criteria at both at a strategic and project level to ensure uniformity:\n\nLinkage to Departmental Policies and Programme for Government priorities\n\nEvidence based need\n\nValue for Money\n\nImpact on area of disadvantage\n\nMinisterial Priority\n\nSustainability – Impact of withdrawal/Other funding opportunities\n\nThese criteria along with regional and local intelligence gathered, feedback from the formal consultation process, our organisational / sectoral experience and knowledge of the funding environment were considered and the following project methodology was introduced.\n\nProject Methodology\n\nStage 1 Remove costs relating to projects that would not require DSD funding in 2015/16. This included for example one-off projects (e.g. refurbishments of premises, purchase of equipment, design fees, community audits and so on) and those projects for which alternative funding in 2015/16 had been secured.\n\nStage 2 All remaining projects went through a robust Economic Appraisal process. The economic appraisal ensured that projects had effectively delivered against agreed existing contractual targets and continued to meet identified need and strategic priorities going forward. Those that failed to meet these criteria were no longer considered for funding. Those that passed the economic appraisal were considered suitable for funding. Where possible, efficiencies were identified through the economic appraisal process to improve value for money.\n\nStage 3 Finally, subject projects to the existing Senior level Approval Panel arrangements, where a sample of projects were considered against the set criteria.","answerHtml":"In this difficult financial climate my Department’s aim was to maximise the delivery of high quality services to the most disadvantaged though the introduction of a process that delivered within timeframe, ensured funding was prioritised against the highest quality projects, and allowed for a consistent and transparent process. Applications were sought from all existing projects and were prioritised against the following criteria at both at a strategic and project level to ensure uniformity:
Linkage to Departmental Policies and Programme for Government priorities
Evidence based need
Value for Money
Impact on area of disadvantage
Ministerial Priority
Sustainability – Impact of withdrawal/Other funding opportunities
These criteria along with regional and local intelligence gathered, feedback from the formal consultation process, our organisational / sectoral experience and knowledge of the funding environment were considered and the following project methodology was introduced.
Project Methodology
Stage 1 Remove costs relating to projects that would not require DSD funding in 2015/16. This included for example one-off projects (e.g. refurbishments of premises, purchase of equipment, design fees, community audits and so on) and those projects for which alternative funding in 2015/16 had been secured.
Stage 2 All remaining projects went through a robust Economic Appraisal process. The economic appraisal ensured that projects had effectively delivered against agreed existing contractual targets and continued to meet identified need and strategic priorities going forward. Those that failed to meet these criteria were no longer considered for funding. Those that passed the economic appraisal were considered suitable for funding. Where possible, efficiencies were identified through the economic appraisal process to improve value for money.
Stage 3 Finally, subject projects to the existing Senior level Approval Panel arrangements, where a sample of projects were considered against the set criteria.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046754%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237453","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237453"}},{"id":"237443","reference":"AQW 46753/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-05","answerBy":"2015-06-22","answered":"2015-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on work to extend the Programme for Government 11/15 to include 2015/2016.","answerText":"We refer the Member to the response to AQW 44310/11-15, answered on 14 April 2015.","answerHtml":"We refer the Member to the response to AQW 44310/11-15, answered on 14 April 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046753%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237443"}},{"id":"237442","reference":"AQW 46752/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-05","answerBy":"2015-06-22","answered":"2015-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the development of an action plan for the Gender Equality Strategy.","answerText":"A review of the Gender Equality Strategy and its associated cross departmental Action Plans was completed in 2013. In January 2014, taking on board the recommendations of the review, we approved the development of a new strategy.\n\nSince that date meetings have taken place with a range of key stakeholders and the Gender Advisory Panel to update them on progress and include them in the development of the new strategy. A first draft of the new strategy was circulated to the Gender Advisory Panel in advance of their most recent meeting on 3 June 2015. Junior Minister McCann and Junior Minister McIlveen attended this meeting in a listening capacity.\n\nThe current strategy will remain in place until the new strategy is developed and operational. The new Strategy will require full public consultation, consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive approval.\n\nThe next Gender Advisory Panel meeting is scheduled for August 2015.","answerHtml":"A review of the Gender Equality Strategy and its associated cross departmental Action Plans was completed in 2013. In January 2014, taking on board the recommendations of the review, we approved the development of a new strategy.
Since that date meetings have taken place with a range of key stakeholders and the Gender Advisory Panel to update them on progress and include them in the development of the new strategy. A first draft of the new strategy was circulated to the Gender Advisory Panel in advance of their most recent meeting on 3 June 2015. Junior Minister McCann and Junior Minister McIlveen attended this meeting in a listening capacity.
The current strategy will remain in place until the new strategy is developed and operational. The new Strategy will require full public consultation, consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive approval.
The next Gender Advisory Panel meeting is scheduled for August 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046752%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237442"}},{"id":"237441","reference":"AQW 46751/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-05","answerBy":"2015-06-22","answered":"2015-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the benefits to care provision following the development of regional and Health and Social Care Trust projects by the Health and Social Care Board.","answerText":"I attended the second Regional Integrated Care Partnership Workshop and saw for myself the benefits that Integrated Care Partnerships (ICPs) bring to local care provision.\n\nThe Partnership Committees, that oversee the work of each of the 17 ICPs, report an improvement in integrated working amongst the healthcare providers involved with improved outcomes for patients and service users.\n\nThe detailed work to improve local implementations of regional services for the four ICP priority areas (Frail Elderly, Respiratory, Stroke and Diabetes) undertaken by the specialist Multi Disciplinary Teams in each ICP has produced a number of service changes and innovations. Examples include:\n\nImprovements in Patient and Care Professional Education\n\nImproved support for self management by those with Long Term Conditions\n\nProvision of Acute Care at home for selected treatments\n\nEnhanced Primary Care Respiratory Service\n\nProvision of Rapid Access Respiratory Assessment Clinic\n\nProvision of Multidisciplinary Diabetic Footcare Team and Pathway","answerHtml":"I attended the second Regional Integrated Care Partnership Workshop and saw for myself the benefits that Integrated Care Partnerships (ICPs) bring to local care provision.
The Partnership Committees, that oversee the work of each of the 17 ICPs, report an improvement in integrated working amongst the healthcare providers involved with improved outcomes for patients and service users.
The detailed work to improve local implementations of regional services for the four ICP priority areas (Frail Elderly, Respiratory, Stroke and Diabetes) undertaken by the specialist Multi Disciplinary Teams in each ICP has produced a number of service changes and innovations. Examples include:
Improvements in Patient and Care Professional Education
Improved support for self management by those with Long Term Conditions
Provision of Acute Care at home for selected treatments
Enhanced Primary Care Respiratory Service
Provision of Rapid Access Respiratory Assessment Clinic
Provision of Multidisciplinary Diabetic Footcare Team and Pathway
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046751%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237441"}},{"id":"237438","reference":"AQW 46748/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-05","answerBy":"2015-06-22","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what monies have been transferred from acute/primary care to the community care budget since 2011.","answerText":"Details of monies transferred from acute/primary care settings to the community care setting are not held.\n\nInformation on the shift of services and associated resources from the acute care setting into primary, community and social care settings is recorded as part of the monitoring of the implementation of Transforming Your Care.\n\nThe table below presents a summary of this financial shift.\n\nShift Left by Year\n\n2012/13\tCumulative\nShift Left\t2013/14\tCumulative Shift Left\t2014/15\tTotal\n£17.43m\t£17.43m\t£20.83m\t£38.26m\t£6.05m\t£44.31m\n\nNote\n\nOf the total £44.31m of Health and Social Care resources ‘shifted left’ by the end of 2014/15, the areas were:\n\nresettlement of Mental Health / Learning Disability clients (£27.5m)\n\na range of transformational initiatives in the primary and community setting funded directly by HSCB recurrent funding (£16.29m)\n\nhospital activity avoided (£0.52m)","answerHtml":"Details of monies transferred from acute/primary care settings to the community care setting are not held.
Information on the shift of services and associated resources from the acute care setting into primary, community and social care settings is recorded as part of the monitoring of the implementation of Transforming Your Care.
The table below presents a summary of this financial shift.
Shift Left by Year
| 2012/13 | Cumulative Shift Left | 2013/14 | Cumulative Shift Left | 2014/15 | Total |
| £17.43m | £17.43m | £20.83m | £38.26m | £6.05m | £44.31m |
Note
Of the total £44.31m of Health and Social Care resources ‘shifted left’ by the end of 2014/15, the areas were:
resettlement of Mental Health / Learning Disability clients (£27.5m)
a range of transformational initiatives in the primary and community setting funded directly by HSCB recurrent funding (£16.29m)
hospital activity avoided (£0.52m)
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046748%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237438","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237438"}},{"id":"237359","reference":"AQW 46727/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-19","answered":"2015-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail what communication his Department has had with Education Authority staff who work in more than one school in regards to (i) the future of their employment; (ii) when they will know if their positions are secure.","answerText":"My Department does not employ staff in schools and therefore does not communicate directly with staff on employment matters. This is a matter for individual Boards of Governors and the Education Authority depending on the school setting.","answerHtml":"My Department does not employ staff in schools and therefore does not communicate directly with staff on employment matters. This is a matter for individual Boards of Governors and the Education Authority depending on the school setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046727%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237359"}},{"id":"237255","reference":"AQW 46700/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-19","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQO 8177/11-15, of the 94 vacancies in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, to detail how many positions have been (i) offered; and (ii) filled.","answerText":"Of the 94 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) vacancies in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service referred to in my previous answer, 20 positions have already been filled and a further 24 positions will be filled by 24 July 2015. The remaining vacancies are being filled on a phased basis during 2015/16 to coordinate with the associated training programmes.","answerHtml":"Of the 94 Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) vacancies in the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service referred to in my previous answer, 20 positions have already been filled and a further 24 positions will be filled by 24 July 2015. The remaining vacancies are being filled on a phased basis during 2015/16 to coordinate with the associated training programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046700%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237255"}},{"id":"237251","reference":"AQW 46698/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-19","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQO 8158/11-15, where the £0.5 million has been allocated.","answerText":"Since the budget was announced, I have allocated over £2 million from the Carrier Bag Levy Fund for the environment giving some relief to environmental groups and programmes. Of this £2 million, £0.5m is to be spent on Listed Building grant schemes. The focus will be on supporting existing restoration and maintenance projects, in buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including churches, and I expect to make an announcement on the funding allocation details shortly.","answerHtml":"Since the budget was announced, I have allocated over £2 million from the Carrier Bag Levy Fund for the environment giving some relief to environmental groups and programmes. Of this £2 million, £0.5m is to be spent on Listed Building grant schemes. The focus will be on supporting existing restoration and maintenance projects, in buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including churches, and I expect to make an announcement on the funding allocation details shortly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046698%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237251","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237251"}},{"id":"237244","reference":"AQW 46692/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-19","answered":"2015-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he or his officials have given any consideration to the number of compulsory staff redundancies there may be as a result of the new Education Authority.","answerText":"The Full Business Case (FBC) for the Education Authority did not promise significant reductions in posts in education administration compared to September 2014 staffing levels, as significant reductions had already been made in anticipation of the establishment of ESA. Nevertheless, the new Authority was expected to employ fewer staff in senior and middle management grades than were formerly employed by the five Education and Library Boards. The FBC envisaged a reduction of some 50 posts in these grades over a three-year period. It was anticipated that these remaining reductions would be achieved through voluntary redundancy, retirement and resignation.","answerHtml":"The Full Business Case (FBC) for the Education Authority did not promise significant reductions in posts in education administration compared to September 2014 staffing levels, as significant reductions had already been made in anticipation of the establishment of ESA. Nevertheless, the new Authority was expected to employ fewer staff in senior and middle management grades than were formerly employed by the five Education and Library Boards. The FBC envisaged a reduction of some 50 posts in these grades over a three-year period. It was anticipated that these remaining reductions would be achieved through voluntary redundancy, retirement and resignation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046692%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237244","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237244"}},{"id":"237243","reference":"AQW 46691/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-19","answered":"2015-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the Special Education Needs Literacy & Numeracy Programme; and how he plans to continue meeting the needs of pupils who participate on this programme in 2015/2016.","answerText":"I understand that clarification was provided in relation to this question and that the information being sought is “how the special educational needs (SEN) framework will support the literacy and numeracy needs of pupils with SEN in the immediate to medium future; in the context of cuts to the Minister’s departmental budget.”\n\nAlthough the Executive’s budget has been reduced by the Westminster government by £1.5bn over the last five years, I have allocated an additional £10m to the Education Authority in 2015-16 to support frontline SEN services for those children that are most vulnerable or at risk of exclusion.\n\nIt remains my priority to ensure that every child receives a high quality education and has the opportunity to reach their full potential. To that end, the Education Authority (EA) has advised that it continues to offer a range of special education support and provision which is available to parents and schools for children with SEN, such as those with literacy and/or numeracy difficulties, including the following:\n\nspecific learning difficulties awareness training to enhance the capacity of teachers to identify and respond appropriately in addressing pupils’ needs;\n\nall Educational Psychologists are trained in the assessment and identification of SENs and provide a comprehensive range of support including recommendations and resources to parents and schools;\n\na range of innovative strategies, resources and computer assisted programmes are available for pupils with literacy and/or numeracy difficulties for whom more traditional methods are unsuccessful;\n\na range of measures to help pupils requiring support taking examinations.\n\nA further range of capacity building projects are provided specifically to assist teachers including:\n\nGood Practice Guidelines Booklet\n\nProvides guidelines on relevant and purposeful measures and adjustments to the classroom environment for pupils experiencing literacy difficulties.\n\nSEN Resource File\n\nProvides teaching staff with details of support for SEN, including sections relating to literacy and numeracy.\n\nCertificate of Competence in Educational Testing [CCET] Training\n\nThis training, which ended in June 2014, enables schools to carry out a range of assessments on pupils with SEN, including those with literacy difficulties.\n\nSEN Literacy Project\n\nA recently completed three year project delivered jointly by Stranmillis and St Mary’s College, funded by the DE, provided schools with online and centre based training on the identification, assessment and the teaching of pupils with literacy difficulties in primary schools across the north of Ireland.","answerHtml":"I understand that clarification was provided in relation to this question and that the information being sought is “how the special educational needs (SEN) framework will support the literacy and numeracy needs of pupils with SEN in the immediate to medium future; in the context of cuts to the Minister’s departmental budget.”
Although the Executive’s budget has been reduced by the Westminster government by £1.5bn over the last five years, I have allocated an additional £10m to the Education Authority in 2015-16 to support frontline SEN services for those children that are most vulnerable or at risk of exclusion.
It remains my priority to ensure that every child receives a high quality education and has the opportunity to reach their full potential. To that end, the Education Authority (EA) has advised that it continues to offer a range of special education support and provision which is available to parents and schools for children with SEN, such as those with literacy and/or numeracy difficulties, including the following:
specific learning difficulties awareness training to enhance the capacity of teachers to identify and respond appropriately in addressing pupils’ needs;
all Educational Psychologists are trained in the assessment and identification of SENs and provide a comprehensive range of support including recommendations and resources to parents and schools;
a range of innovative strategies, resources and computer assisted programmes are available for pupils with literacy and/or numeracy difficulties for whom more traditional methods are unsuccessful;
a range of measures to help pupils requiring support taking examinations.
A further range of capacity building projects are provided specifically to assist teachers including:
Good Practice Guidelines Booklet
Provides guidelines on relevant and purposeful measures and adjustments to the classroom environment for pupils experiencing literacy difficulties.
SEN Resource File
Provides teaching staff with details of support for SEN, including sections relating to literacy and numeracy.
Certificate of Competence in Educational Testing [CCET] Training
This training, which ended in June 2014, enables schools to carry out a range of assessments on pupils with SEN, including those with literacy difficulties.
SEN Literacy Project
A recently completed three year project delivered jointly by Stranmillis and St Mary’s College, funded by the DE, provided schools with online and centre based training on the identification, assessment and the teaching of pupils with literacy difficulties in primary schools across the north of Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046691%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237243","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237243"}},{"id":"237270","reference":"AQO 8404/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of the service provided by the Disability Action Transport Scheme.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208404%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237270"}},{"id":"238884","reference":"AQO 8404/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-04","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":"2015-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of the service provided by the Disability Action Transport Scheme.","answerText":"I acknowledge the valuable services delivered by Community Transport providers. As Minister I have increased funding for these services in recent years. This has included funding to support the Disability Action Transport Scheme in towns and cities across Northern Ireland for elderly and disabled people.\n\nThe Scheme was introduced on 1 April 2013 and continues to operate well. Disability Action seeks the views of their members through user forums and provides feedback to my officials, which continues to be positive. In light of the reduction to grant made available to Disability Action recent discussions have focused on how operational adjustments could be made which would minimise changes to front line services.\n\nI will be bidding, with support from the Committee for Regional Development, for additional funding in June monitoring for Community Transport.","answerHtml":"I acknowledge the valuable services delivered by Community Transport providers. As Minister I have increased funding for these services in recent years. This has included funding to support the Disability Action Transport Scheme in towns and cities across Northern Ireland for elderly and disabled people.
The Scheme was introduced on 1 April 2013 and continues to operate well. Disability Action seeks the views of their members through user forums and provides feedback to my officials, which continues to be positive. In light of the reduction to grant made available to Disability Action recent discussions have focused on how operational adjustments could be made which would minimise changes to front line services.
I will be bidding, with support from the Committee for Regional Development, for additional funding in June monitoring for Community Transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208404%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=238884","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=238884"}},{"id":"237108","reference":"AQW 46662/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-03","answerBy":"2015-06-18","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how he is encouraging the development of links between Ulster University in Coleraine and the Further Education colleges in Coleraine and Limavady.","answerText":"I believe that Further Education Colleges make a distinctive contribution to the overall provision of higher education in Northern Ireland. They have a particular strength in the provision of intermediate-level qualifications to meet the higher skills needs of local employers and regional communities.\n\nMy policy is to encourage the provision of Foundation Degrees offered in collaboration between the local universities and the regional colleges. Foundation degrees are professional and technical qualifications and have a major role to play in meeting the higher level priority skills needs of Northern Ireland. They equip learners with the combination of technical capabilities, academic knowledge and transferable skills at the associate professional and higher technician levels that employers are increasingly demanding.\n\nUlster University (UU) has taken a leading role in the validation of Foundation Degrees and has worked in collaboration with both the Northern Regional College and the North West Regional College in developing a range of Foundation Degree qualifications, including courses in Electrical / Electronic Engineering, Software Development, Sustainable Construction and Applied Medical Sciences.\n\nOver the last two years, I have made increased funding available to provide an additional 75 full time higher education places at North West Regional College, and another 66 at Northern Regional College, in Foundation Degrees in STEM subjects. It is a matter for the senior management of each college to determine the location of specific courses across their campuses to best meet local demand.\n\nI can confirm that a foundation degree course validated by UU in Building Technology and Management is currently being delivered in Coleraine campus. Students on the Northern Regional College Foundation degree in Sport Exercise and Fitness use UU Coleraine sports facilities on a regular basis. I can also confirm that a Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Studies and a Foundation Degree in Counselling validated by UU are currently being delivered at the Limavady campus of North West Regional College.\n\nUU also collaborates with the colleges in the development of Access Diploma courses. These are key qualifications for widening participation in higher education, particularly for adult learners. Currently an Access Diploma in Social Sciences is being delivered at the Coleraine campus, and an Access Diploma in Combined Studies (Humanities) is being delivered at the Limavady campus. In addition, a small number of Level 3 Health Science students from the Limavady campus progress to degree provision at UU Coleraine in Nutrition.\n\nDeveloping links include initial discussions between Northern Regional College Performing Arts Department at its Coleraine campus and UU Coleraine, concerning the potential to develop a Foundation Degree in Performing Arts. Beginning in September 2015, Northern Regional College will undertake academic visits to UU to examine course delivery, modules, industrial links, etc with a view to developing a Foundation Degree to begin in September 2016. Northern Regional College, Coleraine Level 3 courses in Music, Performing Arts and Production Arts already have strong links with the Riverside Theatre, UU Coleraine.\n\nFinally, UU is also supportive of Northern Regional College establishing a Foundation Degree in Computing at Coleraine campus in September 2016 and a Foundation Degree in Business with IT commencing in September 2017.","answerHtml":"I believe that Further Education Colleges make a distinctive contribution to the overall provision of higher education in Northern Ireland. They have a particular strength in the provision of intermediate-level qualifications to meet the higher skills needs of local employers and regional communities.
My policy is to encourage the provision of Foundation Degrees offered in collaboration between the local universities and the regional colleges. Foundation degrees are professional and technical qualifications and have a major role to play in meeting the higher level priority skills needs of Northern Ireland. They equip learners with the combination of technical capabilities, academic knowledge and transferable skills at the associate professional and higher technician levels that employers are increasingly demanding.
Ulster University (UU) has taken a leading role in the validation of Foundation Degrees and has worked in collaboration with both the Northern Regional College and the North West Regional College in developing a range of Foundation Degree qualifications, including courses in Electrical / Electronic Engineering, Software Development, Sustainable Construction and Applied Medical Sciences.
Over the last two years, I have made increased funding available to provide an additional 75 full time higher education places at North West Regional College, and another 66 at Northern Regional College, in Foundation Degrees in STEM subjects. It is a matter for the senior management of each college to determine the location of specific courses across their campuses to best meet local demand.
I can confirm that a foundation degree course validated by UU in Building Technology and Management is currently being delivered in Coleraine campus. Students on the Northern Regional College Foundation degree in Sport Exercise and Fitness use UU Coleraine sports facilities on a regular basis. I can also confirm that a Level 4 Certificate in Counselling Studies and a Foundation Degree in Counselling validated by UU are currently being delivered at the Limavady campus of North West Regional College.
UU also collaborates with the colleges in the development of Access Diploma courses. These are key qualifications for widening participation in higher education, particularly for adult learners. Currently an Access Diploma in Social Sciences is being delivered at the Coleraine campus, and an Access Diploma in Combined Studies (Humanities) is being delivered at the Limavady campus. In addition, a small number of Level 3 Health Science students from the Limavady campus progress to degree provision at UU Coleraine in Nutrition.
Developing links include initial discussions between Northern Regional College Performing Arts Department at its Coleraine campus and UU Coleraine, concerning the potential to develop a Foundation Degree in Performing Arts. Beginning in September 2015, Northern Regional College will undertake academic visits to UU to examine course delivery, modules, industrial links, etc with a view to developing a Foundation Degree to begin in September 2016. Northern Regional College, Coleraine Level 3 courses in Music, Performing Arts and Production Arts already have strong links with the Riverside Theatre, UU Coleraine.
Finally, UU is also supportive of Northern Regional College establishing a Foundation Degree in Computing at Coleraine campus in September 2016 and a Foundation Degree in Business with IT commencing in September 2017.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046662%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237108"}},{"id":"237102","reference":"AQW 46660/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-03","answerBy":"2015-06-18","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning of his assessment of the current condition of the Northern Regional College facility at the Coleraine Campus.","answerText":"It is accepted that the Coleraine campus of the Northern Regional College is in poor condition and unsuited for the delivery of a modern further education curriculum. The building dates back to the 1930’s and requires considerable work to remain functional.\n\nAs I have previously stated in the Assembly, I see improvements in the Northern Regional College Estate as a priority. The preparation of the business case for the estate is ongoing, and a final draft is expected to be with my officials during July 2015 for consideration.","answerHtml":"It is accepted that the Coleraine campus of the Northern Regional College is in poor condition and unsuited for the delivery of a modern further education curriculum. The building dates back to the 1930’s and requires considerable work to remain functional.
As I have previously stated in the Assembly, I see improvements in the Northern Regional College Estate as a priority. The preparation of the business case for the estate is ongoing, and a final draft is expected to be with my officials during July 2015 for consideration.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046660%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237102","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237102"}},{"id":"237100","reference":"AQW 46658/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-03","answerBy":"2015-06-18","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail all the proposed sites for a new build for the Northern Regional College Campus, within the Northern Regional College area.","answerText":"The Northern Regional College is preparing a business case to address deficiencies at its Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena campuses.\n\nThe business case, which will carry out an assessment of all potential sites, is expected to be submitted to my Department for consideration by the end of June. It would, therefore, not be appropriate for me to make any further comment on any of the sites being considered at this stage.","answerHtml":"The Northern Regional College is preparing a business case to address deficiencies at its Coleraine, Ballymoney and Ballymena campuses.
The business case, which will carry out an assessment of all potential sites, is expected to be submitted to my Department for consideration by the end of June. It would, therefore, not be appropriate for me to make any further comment on any of the sites being considered at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046658%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237100","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237100"}},{"id":"237097","reference":"AQW 46655/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-03","answerBy":"2015-06-18","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the benefits for students of having a Further Education College Campus located within a town centre.","answerText":"Colleges are required to develop a business case when considering any major capital investment. In arriving at a preferred option, the business case will consider a range of social and economic factors including an assessment of the relative advantages and disadvantages of a range of proposed locations. This will take into account accessibility to facilities and services, transport links, etc. In addition to this there will also be an assessment of the overall value for money and affordability represented by each option. It is for the College to weigh up these various factors and to make a recommendation as to the option which best meets its needs and those of the student population.\n\nThe resultant business case will then be reviewed by my officials and subsequently those from the Department of Finance and Personnel to ensure that the best option has been selected.","answerHtml":"Colleges are required to develop a business case when considering any major capital investment. In arriving at a preferred option, the business case will consider a range of social and economic factors including an assessment of the relative advantages and disadvantages of a range of proposed locations. This will take into account accessibility to facilities and services, transport links, etc. In addition to this there will also be an assessment of the overall value for money and affordability represented by each option. It is for the College to weigh up these various factors and to make a recommendation as to the option which best meets its needs and those of the student population.
The resultant business case will then be reviewed by my officials and subsequently those from the Department of Finance and Personnel to ensure that the best option has been selected.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046655%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237097","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237097"}},{"id":"237096","reference":"AQW 46654/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-03","answerBy":"2015-06-09","answered":"2015-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 40499/11-15, whether the evaluation of the Collaboration and Innovation Fund has been completed and published: and how it has been made available for public reference.","answerText":"The formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy and the various approaches within this to dealing with the issue of young people not in education employment or training was received in April 2015. This overall evaluation includes six main strands of work including the Collaboration and Innovation Fund. The evaluation was undertaken by the Centre for Economic & Social Inclusion (CESI), a London based not-for-profit-company.\n\nOnce I have considered the evaluation and its implications for a broad range of youth interventions within my Department, the evaluation will be posted on the DEL web-site, and along with, in due course, a refresh of the current Pathways Strategy.","answerHtml":"The formal interim evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy and the various approaches within this to dealing with the issue of young people not in education employment or training was received in April 2015. This overall evaluation includes six main strands of work including the Collaboration and Innovation Fund. The evaluation was undertaken by the Centre for Economic & Social Inclusion (CESI), a London based not-for-profit-company.
Once I have considered the evaluation and its implications for a broad range of youth interventions within my Department, the evaluation will be posted on the DEL web-site, and along with, in due course, a refresh of the current Pathways Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046654%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=237096","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=237096"}},{"id":"236802","reference":"AQW 46562/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-02","answerBy":"2015-06-17","answered":"2015-06-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department is working with officials in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to develop better access to health care for people who are rurally isolated.","answerText":"My Department is represented on the Interdepartmental Committee on Rural Policy which reports to DARD on implementation of the Rural White Paper Action plan. The latest annual report (see below) provides information on partnership working with DARD on programmes such as the Farm Family Health Checks, and the MARA (Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas) project which supports vulnerable rural dwellers living in, or at risk of poverty and social isolation. In addition, the PHA works in partnership with DARD, rurally based agencies and community partners on an ongoing basis in the design and delivery of health improvement programmes.\n\nhttp://www.dardni.gov.uk/annual-progress-report-2014-final.pdf","answerHtml":"My Department is represented on the Interdepartmental Committee on Rural Policy which reports to DARD on implementation of the Rural White Paper Action plan. The latest annual report (see below) provides information on partnership working with DARD on programmes such as the Farm Family Health Checks, and the MARA (Maximising Access to Services, Grants and Benefits in Rural Areas) project which supports vulnerable rural dwellers living in, or at risk of poverty and social isolation. In addition, the PHA works in partnership with DARD, rurally based agencies and community partners on an ongoing basis in the design and delivery of health improvement programmes.
http://www.dardni.gov.uk/annual-progress-report-2014-final.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046562%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236802","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236802"}},{"id":"236800","reference":"AQW 46561/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-02","answerBy":"2015-06-17","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the disparity in accessing services for kinship carers depending on whether the kinship arrangements are formal or informal.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts have a duty to maintain and support formal placements, as these children and young people in those placements are ‘looked-after’ children under The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995. As a result, all foster carers and formal kinship foster carers receive Foster Care Allowances; are allocated a supervising social worker to provide support and supervision; have access to a range of specialist and therapeutic supports as determined by the assessed needs of the child/young person; and are provided with a range of learning and development opportunities as well as educational support. In the majority of informal kinship care arrangements, parental responsibility, including provision of financial support, remains with the parent. Within such arrangements, there is an entitlement to support services and a general duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in those arrangements who are deemed to be “in need”, within the meaning of The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts have a duty to maintain and support formal placements, as these children and young people in those placements are ‘looked-after’ children under The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995. As a result, all foster carers and formal kinship foster carers receive Foster Care Allowances; are allocated a supervising social worker to provide support and supervision; have access to a range of specialist and therapeutic supports as determined by the assessed needs of the child/young person; and are provided with a range of learning and development opportunities as well as educational support. In the majority of informal kinship care arrangements, parental responsibility, including provision of financial support, remains with the parent. Within such arrangements, there is an entitlement to support services and a general duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in those arrangements who are deemed to be “in need”, within the meaning of The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046561%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236800","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236800"}},{"id":"236798","reference":"AQW 46560/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-02","answerBy":"2015-06-17","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of referrals to Trust run residential care homes within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust for each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Northern HSC Trust has advised that they do not keep records of the number of people who have been referred to their Trust run residential care homes.","answerHtml":"The Northern HSC Trust has advised that they do not keep records of the number of people who have been referred to their Trust run residential care homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046560%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236798","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236798"}},{"id":"236797","reference":"AQW 46559/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-02","answerBy":"2015-06-17","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the development of a cross-departmental hate crime action plan.","answerText":"The Department of Justice leads on the implementation of the Executive’s Building Safer, Shared and Confident Communities: A Community Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland 2012-2017.\n\nThe Strategy has a set of associated action plans, including a dedicated hate crime action plan detailing the measures which a multi-agency Hate Crime Delivery Group is taking forward under a safety remit to address hate crime.\n\nThese actions are designed to contribute to the wider Executive commitment to improve community relations and build a united and shared society, and to complement the policies and practice of government departments and their agencies intended to change the prejudices and attitudes within our wider society which are ultimately manifested in hate crime.\n\nExamples of measures currently being delivered through the Hate Crime Delivery Group include: investment in a Hate Crime Advocacy Service, which aims to provide support, advice and assistance for victims of hate crime, and provide a third party reporting mechanism (PSNI and DOJ); investment in the tripartite (PSNI, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, DOJ) Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme, which provides personal and home protection measures for victims of hate crime; and the development of a pilot scheme by the Probation Board for offenders convicted of hate related crimes.\n\nCopies of the action plan and annual progress reports are available in the publications section of the Department of Justice website.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice leads on the implementation of the Executive’s Building Safer, Shared and Confident Communities: A Community Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland 2012-2017.
The Strategy has a set of associated action plans, including a dedicated hate crime action plan detailing the measures which a multi-agency Hate Crime Delivery Group is taking forward under a safety remit to address hate crime.
These actions are designed to contribute to the wider Executive commitment to improve community relations and build a united and shared society, and to complement the policies and practice of government departments and their agencies intended to change the prejudices and attitudes within our wider society which are ultimately manifested in hate crime.
Examples of measures currently being delivered through the Hate Crime Delivery Group include: investment in a Hate Crime Advocacy Service, which aims to provide support, advice and assistance for victims of hate crime, and provide a third party reporting mechanism (PSNI and DOJ); investment in the tripartite (PSNI, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, DOJ) Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme, which provides personal and home protection measures for victims of hate crime; and the development of a pilot scheme by the Probation Board for offenders convicted of hate related crimes.
Copies of the action plan and annual progress reports are available in the publications section of the Department of Justice website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046559%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236797","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236797"}},{"id":"236796","reference":"AQW 46558/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-02","answerBy":"2015-06-17","answered":"2015-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on ongoing discussions between his Department, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and Tourism NI, to review the skills needs of the tourism sector.","answerText":"Pursuant to AQW 43849/11-15, a Steering Group comprising of industry representatives and government officials has been established to advise and provide guidance on the development of the tender specification for the skills research.\n\nThe Group held a workshop on 24th April to agree the scope and remit of the research and is now in the process of finalising the tender specification.","answerHtml":"Pursuant to AQW 43849/11-15, a Steering Group comprising of industry representatives and government officials has been established to advise and provide guidance on the development of the tender specification for the skills research.
The Group held a workshop on 24th April to agree the scope and remit of the research and is now in the process of finalising the tender specification.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046558%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236796","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236796"}},{"id":"236712","reference":"AQW 46534/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-01","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":"2015-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any instances where kinship carers have been required to give up employment in order to meet the needs of children they care for, and if so, for his assessment of this issue.","answerText":"My Department does not collect information on this issue.","answerHtml":"My Department does not collect information on this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046534%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236712"}},{"id":"236708","reference":"AQW 46533/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-01","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":"2015-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what support, including financial, is afforded to foster parents and kinship carers for children within their care.","answerText":"All foster carers and formal kinship foster carers receive Foster Care Allowances; are allocated a supervising social worker to provide support and supervision; have access to a range of specialist and therapeutic supports as determined by the assessed needs of the child/young person; are provided with a range of learning and development opportunities as well as educational support for children in their care. In an informal kinship care arrangement, parental responsibility remains with the parent as does the responsibility to provide financial support. Within such arrangements, there is an entitlement to support services and a general duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in those arrangements who are deemed to be “in need”, within the definition of The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995.","answerHtml":"All foster carers and formal kinship foster carers receive Foster Care Allowances; are allocated a supervising social worker to provide support and supervision; have access to a range of specialist and therapeutic supports as determined by the assessed needs of the child/young person; are provided with a range of learning and development opportunities as well as educational support for children in their care. In an informal kinship care arrangement, parental responsibility remains with the parent as does the responsibility to provide financial support. Within such arrangements, there is an entitlement to support services and a general duty to safeguard and promote the welfare of children in those arrangements who are deemed to be “in need”, within the definition of The Children (Northern Ireland) Order 1995.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046533%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236708","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236708"}},{"id":"236707","reference":"AQW 46532/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-01","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what provisions are in place to allow parental leave for new foster parents, including Kinship Carers.","answerText":"Entitlement to shared parental leave is available to new mothers and adopters and their partners (who may be the child’s father or the other adopter).\n\nEntitlement to the right may arise for foster parents when a child enters a foster placement with them and there is a significant probability that the placement will become an adoptive placement. In those circumstances, entitlement to adoption leave and shared parental leave can arise prior to the formal placement for adoption.\n\nThere are no broader arrangements for shared parental leave for foster parents or kinship carers.","answerHtml":"Entitlement to shared parental leave is available to new mothers and adopters and their partners (who may be the child’s father or the other adopter).
Entitlement to the right may arise for foster parents when a child enters a foster placement with them and there is a significant probability that the placement will become an adoptive placement. In those circumstances, entitlement to adoption leave and shared parental leave can arise prior to the formal placement for adoption.
There are no broader arrangements for shared parental leave for foster parents or kinship carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046532%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236707","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236707"}},{"id":"236705","reference":"AQW 46530/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-01","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":"2015-07-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how people providing formal Kinship Care are supported to remain in employment alongside their Kinship Care Agreement.","answerText":"Kinship carers who are employees, like all employees who have worked for their employer continuously for 26 weeks or more, are entitled to make a statutory request for flexible working. This statutory right was extended to all employees (including kinship carers), for the first time under the Work and Families Act (Northern Ireland) 2015.\n\nEmployers are required to consider statutory flexible working requests and are permitted to turn them down only where the needs of the business cannot accommodate them.\n\nThis may benefit those who wish to vary or reduce their working hours to better accommodate their caring responsibilities.\n\nFamily members looking after a child under 12 may also qualify for National Insurance credits that can top up their income in retirement, usually whilst the child’s parent (or main carer) is working.\n\nDHSSPS have advised that all foster carers, including formal Kinship Carers, receive financial support from social services to help meet the costs associated with caring for foster children.","answerHtml":"Kinship carers who are employees, like all employees who have worked for their employer continuously for 26 weeks or more, are entitled to make a statutory request for flexible working. This statutory right was extended to all employees (including kinship carers), for the first time under the Work and Families Act (Northern Ireland) 2015.
Employers are required to consider statutory flexible working requests and are permitted to turn them down only where the needs of the business cannot accommodate them.
This may benefit those who wish to vary or reduce their working hours to better accommodate their caring responsibilities.
Family members looking after a child under 12 may also qualify for National Insurance credits that can top up their income in retirement, usually whilst the child’s parent (or main carer) is working.
DHSSPS have advised that all foster carers, including formal Kinship Carers, receive financial support from social services to help meet the costs associated with caring for foster children.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046530%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236705","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236705"}},{"id":"236703","reference":"AQW 46528/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-06-01","answerBy":"2015-06-16","answered":"2015-06-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what funding or grants exist to develop community water sports initiatives.","answerText":"On 18 May 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, announced plans to invest £17.5 million of Lottery funding into sports facility projects across the north of Ireland over the next five years. This will result in a significant investment in the sporting and leisure infrastructure in the north of Ireland, which may include water sports initiatives, which will help to increase participation in sport and physical activity across communities.\n\nThe first strand of this programme, the single facility fund, is currently open for applications to a range of organisations including clubs and community associations and has a closing date of 15 July 2015. Guidance notes are currently available on the Sport NI website for the single facility fund for projects valued between £10,000 and £100,000. Applicants are advised to register interest for this programme on the Sport NI website at the following link: http://www.sportni.net/funding/funding-registrations/\n\nMy Department is committed to the development of community sports, including water sports, and in the last three financial years up to March 2015, Sport NI has provided total funding of £9,112,958 to Governing Bodies, clubs and organisations towards the development of community water sports.\n\nIn addition, in 2012/13, £14.438 million was invested in North Down Borough Council for the development of the construction of a new leisure centre to include the north of Ireland’s first 50 metre pool. The facilities are available to local residents and therefore provide opportunity for the development of community water sports.","answerHtml":"On 18 May 2015, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, announced plans to invest £17.5 million of Lottery funding into sports facility projects across the north of Ireland over the next five years. This will result in a significant investment in the sporting and leisure infrastructure in the north of Ireland, which may include water sports initiatives, which will help to increase participation in sport and physical activity across communities.
The first strand of this programme, the single facility fund, is currently open for applications to a range of organisations including clubs and community associations and has a closing date of 15 July 2015. Guidance notes are currently available on the Sport NI website for the single facility fund for projects valued between £10,000 and £100,000. Applicants are advised to register interest for this programme on the Sport NI website at the following link: http://www.sportni.net/funding/funding-registrations/
My Department is committed to the development of community sports, including water sports, and in the last three financial years up to March 2015, Sport NI has provided total funding of £9,112,958 to Governing Bodies, clubs and organisations towards the development of community water sports.
In addition, in 2012/13, £14.438 million was invested in North Down Borough Council for the development of the construction of a new leisure centre to include the north of Ireland’s first 50 metre pool. The facilities are available to local residents and therefore provide opportunity for the development of community water sports.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046528%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236703","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236703"}},{"id":"236435","reference":"AQW 46448/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-29","answerBy":"2015-06-15","answered":"2015-11-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the number of late or outstanding payments for day care centres providing day care for people with learning difficulties or disabilities through a Trust contract.","answerText":"Updated information on the number of late or outstanding payments for day care centres providing day care for people with learning disabilities through a Trust Contract is set out in the table below.\n\nTrust\tNumber of late or outstanding payments for Trust-contracted day centres, providing day care for people with learning disabilities.\nBHSCT\t62 outstanding invoices at a value of £7,216.36.\nNHSCT\tNo late or outstanding payments.\nSEHSCT\tNo late or outstanding payments.\nSHSCT\tThe Trust is unable to provide details retrospectively of those invoices which were late or outstanding.\nMost payments to day care providers are paid via a monthly block contract sum in-month. A small number of providers submit invoices which are approved and paid as promptly as possible.\nWHSCT\tNo late or outstanding payments.","answerHtml":"Updated information on the number of late or outstanding payments for day care centres providing day care for people with learning disabilities through a Trust Contract is set out in the table below.
| Trust | Number of late or outstanding payments for Trust-contracted day centres, providing day care for people with learning disabilities. |
| BHSCT | 62 outstanding invoices at a value of £7,216.36. |
| NHSCT | No late or outstanding payments. |
| SEHSCT | No late or outstanding payments. |
| SHSCT | The Trust is unable to provide details retrospectively of those invoices which were late or outstanding. Most payments to day care providers are paid via a monthly block contract sum in-month. A small number of providers submit invoices which are approved and paid as promptly as possible. |
| WHSCT | No late or outstanding payments. |
There are currently 27 service users in receipt of Independent Living Fund payments, in the East Londonderry area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046447%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236434"}},{"id":"236433","reference":"AQW 46446/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-29","answerBy":"2015-06-15","answered":"2015-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 46078/11-16, to detail all the work completed on the Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative since funding was received.","answerText":"Since the project was launched in September 2014, project staff have been recruited and appropriate project governance arrangements have been put in place. A programme plan has been developed and agreed by the Project Board. Initial scoping exercises have been completed for two out of the three work streams, on awareness raising, information and support, and training including delirium. The scoping exercise for the remaining work stream on short breaks and support for carers is due to be completed by the end of June.","answerHtml":"Since the project was launched in September 2014, project staff have been recruited and appropriate project governance arrangements have been put in place. A programme plan has been developed and agreed by the Project Board. Initial scoping exercises have been completed for two out of the three work streams, on awareness raising, information and support, and training including delirium. The scoping exercise for the remaining work stream on short breaks and support for carers is due to be completed by the end of June.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046446%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236433"}},{"id":"236432","reference":"AQW 46445/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-29","answerBy":"2015-06-15","answered":"2015-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 46076/11-15, to detail the number of inspections the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority are required to carry out for (i) care; (ii) residential; and (iii) nursing homes per year.","answerText":"Under the Regulation and Improvement Authority (Fees and Frequency of Inspections) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, RQIA is required to conduct a minimum of two inspections in every 12 month period at nursing and residential care homes.\n\nWhere inspections have shown that regulations and standards are not being met in an establishment, RQIA may conduct a number of additional inspections to ensure that improvements have been put in place. RQIA may also conduct inspections when following up on concerns or disclosures.","answerHtml":"Under the Regulation and Improvement Authority (Fees and Frequency of Inspections) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, RQIA is required to conduct a minimum of two inspections in every 12 month period at nursing and residential care homes.
Where inspections have shown that regulations and standards are not being met in an establishment, RQIA may conduct a number of additional inspections to ensure that improvements have been put in place. RQIA may also conduct inspections when following up on concerns or disclosures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046445%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236432","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236432"}},{"id":"236431","reference":"AQW 46444/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-29","answerBy":"2015-06-15","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the scoring matrix used by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority during inspections of care, residential and nursing homes; and how this matrix will change following the publication of the revised care standards for nursing homes in April 2015.","answerText":"As part of a regulation improvement programme, RQIA, has introduced a three point scale of compliance for all regulated services - fully met, partially met, not met. In addition, through its inspections, RQIA conducts an independent assessment of, and reports on, the quality of care in relation to three criteria: is care safe?; is care effective?; and, is care compassionate? The findings in relation to compliance levels and quality of care will be reported in RQIA's inspections from 1 April 2015.\n\nFrom April 2015, RQIA assesses compliance against the revised Care Standards for Nursing Homes.","answerHtml":"As part of a regulation improvement programme, RQIA, has introduced a three point scale of compliance for all regulated services - fully met, partially met, not met. In addition, through its inspections, RQIA conducts an independent assessment of, and reports on, the quality of care in relation to three criteria: is care safe?; is care effective?; and, is care compassionate? The findings in relation to compliance levels and quality of care will be reported in RQIA's inspections from 1 April 2015.
From April 2015, RQIA assesses compliance against the revised Care Standards for Nursing Homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046444%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236431"}},{"id":"236203","reference":"AQW 46362/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-28","answerBy":"2015-06-12","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of age-sensitive care within day care centres for adults between 19 and 86 years; and whether he plans to review the different needs along this age spectrum.","answerText":"Adult day care provision caters for a wide range of needs and a broad age range.\n\nSome centres cater for a varied clientele including older people, people with disabilities and people with dementia. Activities are therefore organised on an individual or group basis to meet the needs of discrete and compatible groups of clients. People with mental ill health and learning disabilities are usually catered for in specialist rather than generic centres.\n\nStatutory sector day care is further augmented by a number of voluntary and community sector providers, often with a specialist focus, to cater for particular categories of need. Some of these contracted services may be more vocational in nature.","answerHtml":"Adult day care provision caters for a wide range of needs and a broad age range.
Some centres cater for a varied clientele including older people, people with disabilities and people with dementia. Activities are therefore organised on an individual or group basis to meet the needs of discrete and compatible groups of clients. People with mental ill health and learning disabilities are usually catered for in specialist rather than generic centres.
Statutory sector day care is further augmented by a number of voluntary and community sector providers, often with a specialist focus, to cater for particular categories of need. Some of these contracted services may be more vocational in nature.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046362%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236203"}},{"id":"236201","reference":"AQW 46361/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-28","answerBy":"2015-06-12","answered":"2015-07-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the support available for 17-19 year olds with learning difficulties and disabilities to transition from the care received as a child to care provision as an adult; and to detail how progression into adulthood impacts upon the care they receive.","answerText":"It is a statutory duty to begin to plan for the transition of young people with a learning disability from the age of 14. The process is carried out in partnership with special schools, the young person and their family/carer and ensures as far as possible that the young person’s needs and wishes are well understood before the transition take place and that services are in place to meet these whenever possible. More detailed planning takes place closer to the actual transition date and depending on the young person’s needs such supports include social work, nursing, psychiatry, psychology and allied health professionals, for example, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy. It is important for staff to minimise the uncertainties for the young person by providing good information and support throughout the process.","answerHtml":"It is a statutory duty to begin to plan for the transition of young people with a learning disability from the age of 14. The process is carried out in partnership with special schools, the young person and their family/carer and ensures as far as possible that the young person’s needs and wishes are well understood before the transition take place and that services are in place to meet these whenever possible. More detailed planning takes place closer to the actual transition date and depending on the young person’s needs such supports include social work, nursing, psychiatry, psychology and allied health professionals, for example, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physiotherapy. It is important for staff to minimise the uncertainties for the young person by providing good information and support throughout the process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046361%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236201"}},{"id":"236197","reference":"AQW 46360/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-28","answerBy":"2015-06-12","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of day care centres focusing specifically on the needs and aspirations of people with learning difficulties and disabilities in order to offer the most appropriate choices for personal progress.","answerText":"Learning Disability Day Care Centres offer individualised programmes to the people who attend. For younger individuals day care plans are agreed with the young person, their family, carer and other professionals on transition from school. The plan for each day centre member is reviewed formally on an annual basis and may be reviewed at any time as circumstances change.\n\nThe Day Opportunities Model for Learning Disability, currently being implemented, aims to promote a greater range of day care opportunities across day centre and community options and focuses specifically on the needs and aspirations of people with learning disabilities in order to offer the most appropriate choices for independence and personal progress.","answerHtml":"Learning Disability Day Care Centres offer individualised programmes to the people who attend. For younger individuals day care plans are agreed with the young person, their family, carer and other professionals on transition from school. The plan for each day centre member is reviewed formally on an annual basis and may be reviewed at any time as circumstances change.
The Day Opportunities Model for Learning Disability, currently being implemented, aims to promote a greater range of day care opportunities across day centre and community options and focuses specifically on the needs and aspirations of people with learning disabilities in order to offer the most appropriate choices for independence and personal progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046360%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236197"}},{"id":"236190","reference":"AQW 46359/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-28","answerBy":"2015-06-12","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline how day care centres are being supported by each of the Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"All five Health and Social Care Trusts manage a range of day centres and the Trusts’ multi-disciplinary teams provide support to those day centres to ensure that the individual client needs are supported. All of these day care services are registered with, and inspected by, the Regulation Quality Improvement Authority.","answerHtml":"All five Health and Social Care Trusts manage a range of day centres and the Trusts’ multi-disciplinary teams provide support to those day centres to ensure that the individual client needs are supported. All of these day care services are registered with, and inspected by, the Regulation Quality Improvement Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046359%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236190"}},{"id":"236188","reference":"AQW 46358/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-28","answerBy":"2015-06-12","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail how his Department is collaborating with other Departments to meet the needs of adults with learning difficulties and disabilities.","answerText":"Services for people with a Learning Disability are being delivered in line with the targets set by the Bamford Action Plan 2012-2016 which is being delivered in partnership by a number of departments. An Inter-Ministerial group meets regularly to oversee the implementation of the Bamford Review Recommendations.\n\nThis Inter Departmental co-operation has benefited people with a learning disability in a number of important ways, including: the Community Integration Programme which has resulted in appropriate housing and support being made available for many of the people successfully resettled from learning disability hospitals between 2007 and 2015; and the Day Opportunities Model for Learning Disability which aims to increase the range of options for people with a learning disability in their day care services.","answerHtml":"Services for people with a Learning Disability are being delivered in line with the targets set by the Bamford Action Plan 2012-2016 which is being delivered in partnership by a number of departments. An Inter-Ministerial group meets regularly to oversee the implementation of the Bamford Review Recommendations.
This Inter Departmental co-operation has benefited people with a learning disability in a number of important ways, including: the Community Integration Programme which has resulted in appropriate housing and support being made available for many of the people successfully resettled from learning disability hospitals between 2007 and 2015; and the Day Opportunities Model for Learning Disability which aims to increase the range of options for people with a learning disability in their day care services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046358%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236188"}},{"id":"236108","reference":"AQW 46313/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-27","answerBy":"2015-06-11","answered":"2015-07-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how many groups from the previous European Social Fund Programme have yet to receive their payment in full.","answerText":"Of the 96 projects from the previous European Social Fund programme, six have been paid in full. The remainder have at least one outstanding claim for payment. Some claims are currently with the ESF Managing Authority for finalising before being processed for payment; 75 claims have yet to be received by my Department.\n\nGroups were not originally given a timeline for processing of payments under previous ESF Programmes, but payments were typically made within around three months of receipt of claims unless there were issues which required clarification for audit reasons.\n\nTo relieve financial pressures on organisations and to speed up the payment process it has been agreed that from 1 July 2015 the following will apply:-\n\nfor unpaid claims submitted with claim periods up to the end of March 2014, 80% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of the verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 20% will be paid when claims are fully vouched;\n\nfor unpaid claims submitted with claim periods from April to December 2014, 50% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 50% will be paid when the claims are fully vouched.\n\nArrangements have been put in place to commence processing the above payments referred to in 2 (i) and (ii) above to organisations from 6 July 2015. Organisations should have already received these payments.\n\nClaims submitted with claim periods January to March 2015 will continue to be processed with no partial payment in advance. All outstanding claims will be processed chronologically based on the date of receipt. Claims inspected from 17 June 2015 will be processed using the new verification methodology.\n\nThese arrangements have been communicated to organisations.","answerHtml":"Of the 96 projects from the previous European Social Fund programme, six have been paid in full. The remainder have at least one outstanding claim for payment. Some claims are currently with the ESF Managing Authority for finalising before being processed for payment; 75 claims have yet to be received by my Department.
Groups were not originally given a timeline for processing of payments under previous ESF Programmes, but payments were typically made within around three months of receipt of claims unless there were issues which required clarification for audit reasons.
To relieve financial pressures on organisations and to speed up the payment process it has been agreed that from 1 July 2015 the following will apply:-
for unpaid claims submitted with claim periods up to the end of March 2014, 80% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of the verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 20% will be paid when claims are fully vouched;
for unpaid claims submitted with claim periods from April to December 2014, 50% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 50% will be paid when the claims are fully vouched.
Arrangements have been put in place to commence processing the above payments referred to in 2 (i) and (ii) above to organisations from 6 July 2015. Organisations should have already received these payments.
Claims submitted with claim periods January to March 2015 will continue to be processed with no partial payment in advance. All outstanding claims will be processed chronologically based on the date of receipt. Claims inspected from 17 June 2015 will be processed using the new verification methodology.
These arrangements have been communicated to organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046313%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236108"}},{"id":"236107","reference":"AQW 46312/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-27","answerBy":"2015-06-11","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the process by which day care centres, for people with disabilities and learning difficulties, are procured through Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care (HSC) Board allocates funding to each HSC Trust for the provision of Day Care Centres. Much of this provision is delivered by HSC Trusts however Trusts also sub-commission services from the voluntary and community sector.\n\nWhile the arrangements by which each HSC Trust procure these services may vary across the Trusts, each HSC Trust is required to comply with Northern Ireland Public Procurement Policy.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care (HSC) Board allocates funding to each HSC Trust for the provision of Day Care Centres. Much of this provision is delivered by HSC Trusts however Trusts also sub-commission services from the voluntary and community sector.
While the arrangements by which each HSC Trust procure these services may vary across the Trusts, each HSC Trust is required to comply with Northern Ireland Public Procurement Policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046312%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236107","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236107"}},{"id":"236106","reference":"AQW 46311/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-27","answerBy":"2015-06-11","answered":"2015-07-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether groups from previous European Social Fund programmes (i) were given a time line for receipt of payment; and (ii) whether payment exceeded that time line.","answerText":"Groups were not originally given a timeline for processing of payments under previous European Social Fund (ESF) Programmes, but payments were typically made within around three months of receipt of claims unless there were issues which required clarification for audit reasons.\n\nThe ESF Managing Authority recognises that, in recent months, project organisations have been waiting for payments for some time. To relieve financial pressures on organisations, and to speed up the payment process, it has been agreed that from 1 July 2015 the following will apply:-\n\nfor unpaid claims submitted with claim periods up to the end of March 2014, 80% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of the verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 20% will be paid when claims are fully vouched;\n\nfor unpaid claims submitted with claim periods from April to December 2014, 50% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 50% will be paid when the claims are fully vouched.\n\nArrangements have been in place to commence processing the above payments to organisations from 6 July 2015.\n\nClaims submitted with claim periods January to March 2015 will continue to be processed with no partial payment in advance. All outstanding claims will be processed chronologically based on the date of receipt. Claims inspected from 17 June 2015 will be processed using the new verification methodology.\n\nMy Department is currently working to address audit and control issues in the ESF Managing Authority so that all payments to project organisations can be released as quickly as possible over the next few weeks.\n\nThese arrangements have been communicated to organisations.","answerHtml":"Groups were not originally given a timeline for processing of payments under previous European Social Fund (ESF) Programmes, but payments were typically made within around three months of receipt of claims unless there were issues which required clarification for audit reasons.
The ESF Managing Authority recognises that, in recent months, project organisations have been waiting for payments for some time. To relieve financial pressures on organisations, and to speed up the payment process, it has been agreed that from 1 July 2015 the following will apply:-
for unpaid claims submitted with claim periods up to the end of March 2014, 80% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of the verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 20% will be paid when claims are fully vouched;
for unpaid claims submitted with claim periods from April to December 2014, 50% of the ESF/DEL contribution (65%) will be paid now with completion of verification process carried out at a later date. The remaining 50% will be paid when the claims are fully vouched.
Arrangements have been in place to commence processing the above payments to organisations from 6 July 2015.
Claims submitted with claim periods January to March 2015 will continue to be processed with no partial payment in advance. All outstanding claims will be processed chronologically based on the date of receipt. Claims inspected from 17 June 2015 will be processed using the new verification methodology.
My Department is currently working to address audit and control issues in the ESF Managing Authority so that all payments to project organisations can be released as quickly as possible over the next few weeks.
These arrangements have been communicated to organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046311%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236106","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236106"}},{"id":"236105","reference":"AQW 46310/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-27","answerBy":"2015-06-11","answered":"2015-08-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline what support exists for older people who have learning difficulties or disabilities to retire from day care centres and receive care at home.","answerText":"Adult day centres for people with a learning disability offer services from age eighteen years without an upper limit. Some people do leave day centres for reasons associated with their older age and/or related care needs, for example, to nursing home accommodation because of their changing needs.\n\nIf someone leaves a day centre because of their older age and remains at home then their domiciliary care needs will be assessed and met in line with eligibility criteria for such services. In such cases the person and their family would continue to receive the support of the learning disability multi-disciplinary team members as appropriate.","answerHtml":"Adult day centres for people with a learning disability offer services from age eighteen years without an upper limit. Some people do leave day centres for reasons associated with their older age and/or related care needs, for example, to nursing home accommodation because of their changing needs.
If someone leaves a day centre because of their older age and remains at home then their domiciliary care needs will be assessed and met in line with eligibility criteria for such services. In such cases the person and their family would continue to receive the support of the learning disability multi-disciplinary team members as appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046310%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236105","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236105"}},{"id":"236104","reference":"AQW 46309/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-27","answerBy":"2015-06-11","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline his Department’s timeline for consultation in relation to the Adoption and Children Bill.","answerText":"Jim Wells, issued an Executive paper on 6 March 2015 seeking Executive colleagues’ agreement to proceed to public consultation on the draft Adoption and Children Bill. The paper has not yet been tabled for consideration. The timeline for consultation will depend on the outcome of the Executive's consideration. However, I remain committed to moving towards consultation on the Bill within the current mandate.","answerHtml":"Jim Wells, issued an Executive paper on 6 March 2015 seeking Executive colleagues’ agreement to proceed to public consultation on the draft Adoption and Children Bill. The paper has not yet been tabled for consideration. The timeline for consultation will depend on the outcome of the Executive's consideration. However, I remain committed to moving towards consultation on the Bill within the current mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046309%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=236104","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=236104"}},{"id":"235844","reference":"AQW 46217/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-26","answerBy":"2015-06-10","answered":"2015-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development when the Accessible Transport Strategy 2015-2025 will be published.","answerText":"My Department plans to publish the agreed Accessible Transport Strategy 2025 by the end of 2015. This date is dependent upon responses received from the public consultation phase and agreement with other Departments on any elements of the Strategy which are cross cutting.","answerHtml":"My Department plans to publish the agreed Accessible Transport Strategy 2025 by the end of 2015. This date is dependent upon responses received from the public consultation phase and agreement with other Departments on any elements of the Strategy which are cross cutting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046217%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235844","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235844"}},{"id":"235843","reference":"AQW 46216/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-26","answerBy":"2015-06-10","answered":"2015-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the Accessible Transport Strategy 2015-2025.","answerText":"My Department is preparing a draft Accessible Transport Strategy 2025 for public consultation in the coming months.\n\nA pre-consultation stage has involved engagement with focus groups comprising older and disabled people and their representative bodies to determine key issues of concern. Also, my Department has undertaken a survey of the attitudes of disabled and older people to public transport, in conjunction with the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC). The results of this survey were published in April 2015.\n\nAn Inter Departmental Steering Group has met to provide advice on how the policies, strategies and initiatives of other Departments will impact on accessible travel and transport in the future.\n\nIn developing a draft Strategy for public consultation, my officials are consulting IMTAC as a source of advice on the issues to be addressed.","answerHtml":"My Department is preparing a draft Accessible Transport Strategy 2025 for public consultation in the coming months.
A pre-consultation stage has involved engagement with focus groups comprising older and disabled people and their representative bodies to determine key issues of concern. Also, my Department has undertaken a survey of the attitudes of disabled and older people to public transport, in conjunction with the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC). The results of this survey were published in April 2015.
An Inter Departmental Steering Group has met to provide advice on how the policies, strategies and initiatives of other Departments will impact on accessible travel and transport in the future.
In developing a draft Strategy for public consultation, my officials are consulting IMTAC as a source of advice on the issues to be addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046216%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235843"}},{"id":"235842","reference":"AQW 46215/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-26","answerBy":"2015-06-10","answered":"2015-06-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to consult with older people and people with disabilities to highlight barriers to using pubic tansport in respect of developing the Accessible Transport Strategy 2015-2025.","answerText":"Since November 2014, my Department has engaged extensively with older people and people with disabilities and the organisations that represent them, to identify the issues to be addressed in the Accessible Transport Strategy 2025. My officials have also taken advice from the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) on the priorities for the new Strategy and the indicators by which progress should be measured.\n\nMy Department has also worked closely with IMTAC in commissioning and carrying out a survey of the attitudes of disabled and older people to public transport. The results of this survey were published in April 2015.\n\nThe next stage in development of the Strategy will be a public consultation to be held over the coming months. This will provide a further opportunity for older people and people with disabilities to comment.","answerHtml":"Since November 2014, my Department has engaged extensively with older people and people with disabilities and the organisations that represent them, to identify the issues to be addressed in the Accessible Transport Strategy 2025. My officials have also taken advice from the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) on the priorities for the new Strategy and the indicators by which progress should be measured.
My Department has also worked closely with IMTAC in commissioning and carrying out a survey of the attitudes of disabled and older people to public transport. The results of this survey were published in April 2015.
The next stage in development of the Strategy will be a public consultation to be held over the coming months. This will provide a further opportunity for older people and people with disabilities to comment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046215%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235842","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235842"}},{"id":"235841","reference":"AQW 46214/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-26","answerBy":"2015-06-10","answered":"2015-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of permanent full time staff nurse posts created in each of the last three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Qualified Nursing & Midwifery workforce has continued to grow over the last few years. The total whole-time equivalent, excluding bank staff and those with a WTE of less than 0.03, has increased by approximately 966, or 7.1%, between March 2011 and March 2015.\n\nThe South Eastern and Southern Trusts were unable to provide the information requested. The number of newly created permanent full-time Band 5 Staff Nurse posts in the Belfast, Northern and Western Trusts are shown in the table below.\n\nTable: Newly Created Permanent Full-Time Band 5 Staff Nurse Posts\n\nBelfast HSC Trust\tNorthern HSC Trust\tWestern HSC Trust\n2012/13\t0\t10\t*\n2013/14\t54\t18\t21\n2014/15\t14\t14\t30\n\n* The Western Trust were unable to provide a figure for 2012/13.","answerHtml":"The Qualified Nursing & Midwifery workforce has continued to grow over the last few years. The total whole-time equivalent, excluding bank staff and those with a WTE of less than 0.03, has increased by approximately 966, or 7.1%, between March 2011 and March 2015.
The South Eastern and Southern Trusts were unable to provide the information requested. The number of newly created permanent full-time Band 5 Staff Nurse posts in the Belfast, Northern and Western Trusts are shown in the table below.
Table: Newly Created Permanent Full-Time Band 5 Staff Nurse Posts
| Belfast HSC Trust | Northern HSC Trust | Western HSC Trust | |
| 2012/13 | 0 | 10 | * |
| 2013/14 | 54 | 18 | 21 |
| 2014/15 | 14 | 14 | 30 |
* The Western Trust were unable to provide a figure for 2012/13.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046214%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235841","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235841"}},{"id":"235840","reference":"AQW 46213/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-26","answerBy":"2015-06-10","answered":"2015-06-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of new permanent full time staff nurse posts created in each of the last three years, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Qualified Nursing & Midwifery workforce has continued to grow over the last few years. The total whole-time equivalent, excluding bank staff and those with a WTE of less than 0.03, has increased by approximately 966, or 7.1%, between March 2011 and March 2015.\n\nThe South Eastern and Southern Trusts were unable to provide the information requested. The number of newly created permanent full-time Band 5 Staff Nurse posts in the Belfast, Northern and Western Trusts are shown in the table below.\n\nTable: Newly Created Permanent Full-Time Band 5 Staff Nurse Posts\n\nBelfast HSC Trust\tNorthern HSC Trust\tWestern HSC Trust\n2012/13\t0\t10\t*\n2013/14\t54\t18\t21\n2014/15\t14\t14\t30\n\n* The Western Trust were unable to provide a figure for 2012/13.","answerHtml":"The Qualified Nursing & Midwifery workforce has continued to grow over the last few years. The total whole-time equivalent, excluding bank staff and those with a WTE of less than 0.03, has increased by approximately 966, or 7.1%, between March 2011 and March 2015.
The South Eastern and Southern Trusts were unable to provide the information requested. The number of newly created permanent full-time Band 5 Staff Nurse posts in the Belfast, Northern and Western Trusts are shown in the table below.
Table: Newly Created Permanent Full-Time Band 5 Staff Nurse Posts
| Belfast HSC Trust | Northern HSC Trust | Western HSC Trust | |
| 2012/13 | 0 | 10 | * |
| 2013/14 | 54 | 18 | 21 |
| 2014/15 | 14 | 14 | 30 |
* The Western Trust were unable to provide a figure for 2012/13.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046213%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235840"}},{"id":"235770","reference":"AQW 46182/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-22","answerBy":"2015-06-09","answered":"2015-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how rural groups and youth workers are being represented on the newly formed Local Action Groups.","answerText":"All Local Action Groups are self forming as per the European Regulation however their composition is required to be representative of the composition of the local rural area which they wish to represent and in particular be section 75 compliant. The Department has provided assistance through the NI Rural Network and the Rural Development Council to animate local communities towards formation of Local Action Groups for the incoming 2014/2020 NI Rural Development programme. As part of this process a sectoral event covering community organisations was held on 5th November 2014 and a specific event targeting youth was held on 16th December 2015.\n\nWithin the formation process LAG members agreed their own composition requirements (as required under the LEADER methodology) and Board Selection criteria. Each new LAG has filled its board appointments through robust and transparent selection processes which are in line with the ‘LEADER’ approach i.e. bottom up, local people making local decisions.","answerHtml":"All Local Action Groups are self forming as per the European Regulation however their composition is required to be representative of the composition of the local rural area which they wish to represent and in particular be section 75 compliant. The Department has provided assistance through the NI Rural Network and the Rural Development Council to animate local communities towards formation of Local Action Groups for the incoming 2014/2020 NI Rural Development programme. As part of this process a sectoral event covering community organisations was held on 5th November 2014 and a specific event targeting youth was held on 16th December 2015.
Within the formation process LAG members agreed their own composition requirements (as required under the LEADER methodology) and Board Selection criteria. Each new LAG has filled its board appointments through robust and transparent selection processes which are in line with the ‘LEADER’ approach i.e. bottom up, local people making local decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046182%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235770"}},{"id":"235769","reference":"AQW 46181/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-22","answerBy":"2015-06-09","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department is promoting and supporting youth work in rural areas, to reflect the aims and objectives of Priorities for Youth: Improving young people’s lives through youth work.","answerText":"Priorities for Youth states that targeted youth provision will be supported to meet the needs of young people living in rural isolation as they may be at greater risk of social inclusion, marginalisation or isolation because they experience a combination of barriers to learning.\n\nThe future planning, funding and delivery of youth work will be based on composite assessment of local and regional need by the Education Authority and the Youth Council. A Regional Youth Development Plan for 2015-16, informed through stakeholder engagement in the form of the Regional Advisory Group, has been developed to address the Department’s priorities in the regional and local context.","answerHtml":"Priorities for Youth states that targeted youth provision will be supported to meet the needs of young people living in rural isolation as they may be at greater risk of social inclusion, marginalisation or isolation because they experience a combination of barriers to learning.
The future planning, funding and delivery of youth work will be based on composite assessment of local and regional need by the Education Authority and the Youth Council. A Regional Youth Development Plan for 2015-16, informed through stakeholder engagement in the form of the Regional Advisory Group, has been developed to address the Department’s priorities in the regional and local context.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046181%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235769"}},{"id":"235768","reference":"AQW 46180/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-22","answerBy":"2015-06-09","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department will update Priorities for Youth: Improving young people’s lives through youth work, to compliment the new Education Authority.","answerText":"Schedule 2 (Paragraph 4) of the Education Act provides that any reference to a dissolved body in any statutory provision or document shall, from 1 April 2015, be construed as a reference to the Education Authority. This means that the Department does not need to make large numbers of amendments to regulations or documents merely to substitute references to the ELBs or Staff Commission with references to the Education Authority.\n\nPriorities for Youth is currently being implemented, by the Education Authority and the Youth Council, collaboratively as appropriate, through a phased approach with full implementation expected by the end of 2016.","answerHtml":"Schedule 2 (Paragraph 4) of the Education Act provides that any reference to a dissolved body in any statutory provision or document shall, from 1 April 2015, be construed as a reference to the Education Authority. This means that the Department does not need to make large numbers of amendments to regulations or documents merely to substitute references to the ELBs or Staff Commission with references to the Education Authority.
Priorities for Youth is currently being implemented, by the Education Authority and the Youth Council, collaboratively as appropriate, through a phased approach with full implementation expected by the end of 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046180%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235768"}},{"id":"235767","reference":"AQW 46179/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-22","answerBy":"2015-06-09","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department is working with officials in the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development to support and promote youth work in rural areas.","answerText":"The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is a member of the stakeholder Regional Advisory Group, which has provided advice to the Education Authority and the Youth Council which has helped to inform the development of the 2015-16 Regional Youth Development Plan.","answerHtml":"The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is a member of the stakeholder Regional Advisory Group, which has provided advice to the Education Authority and the Youth Council which has helped to inform the development of the 2015-16 Regional Youth Development Plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046179%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235767"}},{"id":"235766","reference":"AQW 46178/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-22","answerBy":"2015-06-09","answered":"2015-06-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the groups that have applied to the Rural Micro Capital Grant Programme, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Rural Micro Capital Grant Programme opened for applications on 13 April 2015 and closed on 22 May 2015. A total of 454 applications were received by the closing date. The Programme is being delivered on a sub-regional basis by the Rural Support Networks (RSN’s). The number of applications per RSN area is detailed in Table 1.\n\nAt present RSN and DARD staff are focused on the screening and selection processes of the Programme. To carry-out an analysis of applications by constituency area at present would impede this time sensitive work and potentially delay the award of funding to successful applicants. Once this work has been completed I will write to you and provide you with more detail on applications per constituency, as requested.\n\nTable 1 – Applications per RSN area\n\nRural Support Network\tCouncil Area Covered\tNo. Of Applications Received\nSouth Antrim Community Network (SACN)\tAntrim & Newtownabbey and Mid & East Antrim\t27\nThe Armagh, Down & Antrim Network (TADA)\tArmagh, Banbridge & Craigavon\t73\nNorth Antrim Community Network (NACN)\tCauseway Coast & Glens\t40\nRural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID)\tDerry City & Strabane District\t60\nFermanagh Rural Community Network (FRCN)\tFermanagh & Omagh\t84\nCookstown & Western Shores Area Network (CWSAN)\tMid Ulster\t87\nCounty Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN)\tNewry, Mourne & Down, North Down & Ards and Lisburn & Castlereagh\t83","answerHtml":"The Rural Micro Capital Grant Programme opened for applications on 13 April 2015 and closed on 22 May 2015. A total of 454 applications were received by the closing date. The Programme is being delivered on a sub-regional basis by the Rural Support Networks (RSN’s). The number of applications per RSN area is detailed in Table 1.
At present RSN and DARD staff are focused on the screening and selection processes of the Programme. To carry-out an analysis of applications by constituency area at present would impede this time sensitive work and potentially delay the award of funding to successful applicants. Once this work has been completed I will write to you and provide you with more detail on applications per constituency, as requested.
Table 1 – Applications per RSN area
| Rural Support Network | Council Area Covered | No. Of Applications Received |
| South Antrim Community Network (SACN) | Antrim & Newtownabbey and Mid & East Antrim | 27 |
| The Armagh, Down & Antrim Network (TADA) | Armagh, Banbridge & Craigavon | 73 |
| North Antrim Community Network (NACN) | Causeway Coast & Glens | 40 |
| Rural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID) | Derry City & Strabane District | 60 |
| Fermanagh Rural Community Network (FRCN) | Fermanagh & Omagh | 84 |
| Cookstown & Western Shores Area Network (CWSAN) | Mid Ulster | 87 |
| County Down Rural Community Network (CDRCN) | Newry, Mourne & Down, North Down & Ards and Lisburn & Castlereagh | 83 |
The replacement driver licensing system is currently being developed utilising an ‘Agile’ development methodology, to replace the existing system. ‘Discovery’ and ‘Development’ are standard phases within Agile methodology.
The Discovery Phase of the new driver licensing IT system is about capturing information and creating a workable solution for the application. It involves determining the user needs that the service should meet, the constraints that exist, and the measures that will be used to evaluate and continuously improve the service.
The Development Phase is about developing a prototype of the new system while continuing to build upon the findings of the Discovery Phase. It involves selecting and testing technologies, and developing business scenarios identified as high priority during Discovery. During the development phase the solution is developed and delivered in phases to the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) who then has the opportunity to review the system and make any changes necessary. This allows for continual refinement of the new system in line with the needs of the business.
The first phase of the replacement driver licensing system is scheduled to go live in April 2016 and will deliver improvements to the customer experience, service efficiencies and other enhancements. The ability to reduce fees will be heavily dependent on the availability of a means to verify the identity of the user applying to use the service and subsequently the uptake of online transactions. Once the first phase goes live, this will provide an opportunity to review the fees currently charged for the processing of driver licences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046117%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235599","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235599"}},{"id":"235589","reference":"AQW 46114/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-21","answerBy":"2015-06-08","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 45455/11-15, whether the three new consultant posts were based in the Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust has confirmed that the three (2.5 whole-time equivalent) newly created consultant posts referred to in AQW 45455 are based in the Causeway Hospital.","answerHtml":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust has confirmed that the three (2.5 whole-time equivalent) newly created consultant posts referred to in AQW 45455 are based in the Causeway Hospital.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046114%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235589","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235589"}},{"id":"235587","reference":"AQW 46113/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-21","answerBy":"2015-06-08","answered":"2015-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 45547/11-15, to detail which stakeholders contributed to the evaluation report; and which of these are from East Londonderry.","answerText":"The stakeholders who contributed to the evaluation of the Volunteering Strategy were randomly selected by Strategic Investment Board (SIB) and details can be found in Table 1.\n\nTable 1\n\nOrganisation\tName\tPosition\n\nVolunteer Now\tWendy Osborne\nDenise Hayward\tChief Executive\nDirector of Outreach and Engagement\nLimavady Volunteer Centre\tTricia Kelly\tCentre Manager\nOmagh Volunteer Centre\tMichelle McRory\tCentre Manager\nNorth West Churches Volunteer Centre\tJacqueline Garnon\tCentre Manager and SOLVE project contact\nCauseway Volunteer Centre\tMary McNickle\tCentre Manager\nCraigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre\tDonna Stewart\tCentre Manager\nLimavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI/AIVC)\tJohnny McShane\tSmall Grants Officer\nUlster Rugby\tChris Webster\tSport in the Community Project Contact\nOutdoor Recreation NI\tCaro-lynne Ferris\tExecutive Director\n\nThe stakeholders who contributed to the evaluation of the Volunteering Strategy from East Londonderry are detailed at Table 2. It should be noted that some of the organisations listed in Table 1 are geographically based outside of the East Londonderry area however, the service they provide can include the East Londonderry area.\n\nOrganisation\tName\tPosition\nLimavady Volunteer Centre\tTricia Kelly\tCentre Manager\nOmagh Volunteer Centre\tMichelle McRory\tCentre Manager\nCauseway Volunteer Centre\tMary McNickle\tCentre Manager\nLimavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI/AIVC)\tJohnny McShane\tSmall Grants Officer\n\nTable 2\n\nTo further inform the evaluation of the Volunteering strategy a survey was developed by strategic Investment Board (SIB) and issued to Volunteering Small Grants recipients in order to seek their views and 492 responses were received to the survey. There were 658 successful groups in 14/15 and 661 for the 2014/15 year. This was an anonomised survey therefore the geographical split cannot be provided.","answerHtml":"The stakeholders who contributed to the evaluation of the Volunteering Strategy were randomly selected by Strategic Investment Board (SIB) and details can be found in Table 1.
Table 1
| Organisation | Name | Position |
| Volunteer Now | Wendy Osborne Denise Hayward | Chief Executive Director of Outreach and Engagement |
| Limavady Volunteer Centre | Tricia Kelly | Centre Manager |
| Omagh Volunteer Centre | Michelle McRory | Centre Manager |
| North West Churches Volunteer Centre | Jacqueline Garnon | Centre Manager and SOLVE project contact |
| Causeway Volunteer Centre | Mary McNickle | Centre Manager |
| Craigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre | Donna Stewart | Centre Manager |
| Limavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI/AIVC) | Johnny McShane | Small Grants Officer |
| Ulster Rugby | Chris Webster | Sport in the Community Project Contact |
| Outdoor Recreation NI | Caro-lynne Ferris | Executive Director |
The stakeholders who contributed to the evaluation of the Volunteering Strategy from East Londonderry are detailed at Table 2. It should be noted that some of the organisations listed in Table 1 are geographically based outside of the East Londonderry area however, the service they provide can include the East Londonderry area.
| Organisation | Name | Position |
| Limavady Volunteer Centre | Tricia Kelly | Centre Manager |
| Omagh Volunteer Centre | Michelle McRory | Centre Manager |
| Causeway Volunteer Centre | Mary McNickle | Centre Manager |
| Limavady Community Development Initiative (LCDI/AIVC) | Johnny McShane | Small Grants Officer |
Table 2
To further inform the evaluation of the Volunteering strategy a survey was developed by strategic Investment Board (SIB) and issued to Volunteering Small Grants recipients in order to seek their views and 492 responses were received to the survey. There were 658 successful groups in 14/15 and 661 for the 2014/15 year. This was an anonomised survey therefore the geographical split cannot be provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046113%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235587","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235587"}},{"id":"235578","reference":"AQW 46111/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-21","answerBy":"2015-06-08","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 45441/11-15, to detail the change in the annual contract between TransportNI and local councils, which funds urban grass cutting; and for his assessment of the impact on the tourist economy.","answerText":"TransportNI’s objective in cutting grass on its lands is to prevent overgrowth onto footway and carriageway surfaces and the obstruction of sightlines and traffic signs. Grass cutting operations are therefore carried out for road safety reasons and not for aesthetic or amenity purposes.\n\nThe policy attempts to maintain the balance between road safety, the control of noxious weeds and environmental protection and historically provided for two cuts per year in rural areas and five cuts in urban areas. The area to be cut was one swathe width (1.2m), with the complete area required for sightlines to be cut as necessary.\n\nIn some cases, District Councils wish to have a higher standard of grass maintenance within their boundary than is provided by TransportNI, usually for aesthetic and amenity reasons. In these cases, the Councils accepted responsibility for the work within their respective boundary and were reimbursed by TransportNI for the cuts that would have been carried out under its policy. However, not all councils seek a higher standard of grass maintenance or adopt this practice.\n\nAs you may be aware, my Department is facing a £60 million resource budget pressure in 2015/16, more than half of which has fallen to TransportNI, and since 31 March 2015 my Department has been unable to employ external providers to undertake routine maintenance activities such as grass cutting or fund the grass cutting service provided by Councils on behalf of TransportNI.\n\nHowever, our internal workforce will continue to provide a skeleton routine maintenance service in relation to grass cutting, which will allow all areas to be cut once between April and October, with sightlines at bends and junctions being cut more frequently as required in the interests of road safety.","answerHtml":"TransportNI’s objective in cutting grass on its lands is to prevent overgrowth onto footway and carriageway surfaces and the obstruction of sightlines and traffic signs. Grass cutting operations are therefore carried out for road safety reasons and not for aesthetic or amenity purposes.
The policy attempts to maintain the balance between road safety, the control of noxious weeds and environmental protection and historically provided for two cuts per year in rural areas and five cuts in urban areas. The area to be cut was one swathe width (1.2m), with the complete area required for sightlines to be cut as necessary.
In some cases, District Councils wish to have a higher standard of grass maintenance within their boundary than is provided by TransportNI, usually for aesthetic and amenity reasons. In these cases, the Councils accepted responsibility for the work within their respective boundary and were reimbursed by TransportNI for the cuts that would have been carried out under its policy. However, not all councils seek a higher standard of grass maintenance or adopt this practice.
As you may be aware, my Department is facing a £60 million resource budget pressure in 2015/16, more than half of which has fallen to TransportNI, and since 31 March 2015 my Department has been unable to employ external providers to undertake routine maintenance activities such as grass cutting or fund the grass cutting service provided by Councils on behalf of TransportNI.
However, our internal workforce will continue to provide a skeleton routine maintenance service in relation to grass cutting, which will allow all areas to be cut once between April and October, with sightlines at bends and junctions being cut more frequently as required in the interests of road safety.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046111%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235578","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235578"}},{"id":"235577","reference":"AQW 46110/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-21","answerBy":"2015-06-08","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of the use of the Don’t Mow, Let it Grow campaign as an answer to cuts to funding for urban grass cutting.","answerText":"My Department is currently working in partnership with the local Council and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) on the ‘Don’t Mow, Let it Grow’ project to restore a relatively small number of public grasslands and road verges within the Causeway Coast and Glens to flower-rich meadows.\n\nThis initiative does not mean that my Department will stop cutting grass as the effective biodiversity management of such areas will still require a single cut and removal of cuttings to avoid soil enrichment. However, it would not be considered economically justifiable to do so on a large scale.\n\nAs you may be aware, it is my Department’s policy to only cut a strip or swathe width (1.2m) of grass at roadside verges unless noxious weeds take hold or visibility is a problem, in which case grass is cut back further, as appropriate, at each location.\n\nTherefore, even if this project is successful with the results shared across the country, it is likely the initiative will only have a minimal impact both on the amount of urban grass to be cut, for which my Department is responsible, and within the overall context of the budgetary challenges facing my Department.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently working in partnership with the local Council and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) on the ‘Don’t Mow, Let it Grow’ project to restore a relatively small number of public grasslands and road verges within the Causeway Coast and Glens to flower-rich meadows.
This initiative does not mean that my Department will stop cutting grass as the effective biodiversity management of such areas will still require a single cut and removal of cuttings to avoid soil enrichment. However, it would not be considered economically justifiable to do so on a large scale.
As you may be aware, it is my Department’s policy to only cut a strip or swathe width (1.2m) of grass at roadside verges unless noxious weeds take hold or visibility is a problem, in which case grass is cut back further, as appropriate, at each location.
Therefore, even if this project is successful with the results shared across the country, it is likely the initiative will only have a minimal impact both on the amount of urban grass to be cut, for which my Department is responsible, and within the overall context of the budgetary challenges facing my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046110%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235577"}},{"id":"235445","reference":"AQO 8265/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-21","answerBy":"2015-06-01","answered":"2015-06-01","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what proportion of the £17.5m SportNI administered National Lottery funding will be allocated to facilitate females, older people and people with disabilities to participate in sport.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208265%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235445","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-06-01&docID=236056#AQO%208265/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235445"}},{"id":"235410","reference":"AQW 46078/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-20","answerBy":"2015-06-05","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether any of the £6.25m funding from the Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative has been allocated within the Northern Health and Socail Care Trust area.","answerText":"Implementation of the Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative is being taken forward on a regional basis by a project team led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, and working in close collaboration with all five Health and Social Care Trusts, including the Northern Trust.\n\nOver the lifetime of the project, investment is planned on a public information campaign, developing and rolling out dementia specific training for HSC staff, providing additional support for carers, and development of innovative models of respite. These measures are designed to benefit people with dementia and their carers across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Implementation of the Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative is being taken forward on a regional basis by a project team led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, and working in close collaboration with all five Health and Social Care Trusts, including the Northern Trust.
Over the lifetime of the project, investment is planned on a public information campaign, developing and rolling out dementia specific training for HSC staff, providing additional support for carers, and development of innovative models of respite. These measures are designed to benefit people with dementia and their carers across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046078%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235410"}},{"id":"235409","reference":"AQW 46077/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-20","answerBy":"2015-06-05","answered":"2015-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of carer grants provided to individuals to cover the additional costs of caring in (i) 2013/14; and (ii) 2014/15, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Information on the number of carers grants made in 2013/14 is detailed in the table below. Information for 2014/15 is not yet available.\n\nNumber of one off Carers Grants made in-year\n\nHSC Trust\t2013/14\nBelfast\t1,246\nNorthern\t166\nSouth Eastern\t553\nSouthern\t233\nWestern\t551\nNorthern Ireland\t2,749","answerHtml":"Information on the number of carers grants made in 2013/14 is detailed in the table below. Information for 2014/15 is not yet available.
Number of one off Carers Grants made in-year
| HSC Trust | 2013/14 |
| Belfast | 1,246 |
| Northern | 166 |
| South Eastern | 553 |
| Southern | 233 |
| Western | 551 |
| Northern Ireland | 2,749 |
Revised care standards for nursing homes were published on 13 April 2015 and are used by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority as the basis of their registration and inspections of these establishments effective from the date of publication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046076%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235408","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235408"}},{"id":"235407","reference":"AQW 46075/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-20","answerBy":"2015-06-05","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current waiting lists for (i) private care homes; and (ii) Health and Social Care Trust care homes, broken down by Trust area.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board has advised me that the Western Trust currently has 21 placement applications for temporary/permanent status in independent nursing/residential homes. These are considered and reviewed by the Trust on a regular basis and available funding allocated to those assessed at greatest need. The Trust has no one on a waiting list for its statutory residential homes.\n\nThe Northern Trust has 4 older people who are currently accommodated in intermediate care beds awaiting their nursing home of choice, with no-one on a waiting list for its statutory residential homes.\n\nNone of the other Trusts have anyone on a waiting list for either private or Trust care homes.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board has advised me that the Western Trust currently has 21 placement applications for temporary/permanent status in independent nursing/residential homes. These are considered and reviewed by the Trust on a regular basis and available funding allocated to those assessed at greatest need. The Trust has no one on a waiting list for its statutory residential homes.
The Northern Trust has 4 older people who are currently accommodated in intermediate care beds awaiting their nursing home of choice, with no-one on a waiting list for its statutory residential homes.
None of the other Trusts have anyone on a waiting list for either private or Trust care homes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046075%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235407","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235407"}},{"id":"235406","reference":"AQW 46074/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-20","answerBy":"2015-06-05","answered":"2015-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for her assessment of creative incubation spaces for business retail and exhibition; and whether she has any plans to develop such a space in East Londonderry.","answerText":"As the Government lead for the development of the Creative Industries I am aware of the importance of providing small local businesses in the sector with opportunities to develop.\n\nThe Department for Social Development has supported the North West Social Enterprise Hub in Derry which is working with a number of emerging social enterprises, including some in the creative sector. These include an art collective “The Social Study and Gallery” whose main focus is on contemporary art and defining photography. This collective has been provided with retail test trading incubation premises as part of the social enterprise hub programme.\n\nThe North Western hub is also currently providing mentoring and incubation space to two further creative social enterprise businesses; Culture Craft, whose business focuses on combining contemporary art and metal work, and Urban Visuals, whose social enterprise focuses on contemporary street art.\n\nThe Western Hub based in Strabane is currently working with a newly established craft collective that are trading from the test retail unit based at the hub. DCAL have also supported this project.\n\nThrough the North West Socio Economic Development Programme, a number of cultural hubs received funding to purchase high tech equipment and software. These included hubs in Coleraine, Portstewart and Limavady such as the Ballysally Youth and Community Centre, Flowerfield and the Glens Community Association. These hubs can provide a centre of gravity for localised and joined up approaches to cultural-led community engagement, growing the creative industries and wider economic and social development.","answerHtml":"As the Government lead for the development of the Creative Industries I am aware of the importance of providing small local businesses in the sector with opportunities to develop.
The Department for Social Development has supported the North West Social Enterprise Hub in Derry which is working with a number of emerging social enterprises, including some in the creative sector. These include an art collective “The Social Study and Gallery” whose main focus is on contemporary art and defining photography. This collective has been provided with retail test trading incubation premises as part of the social enterprise hub programme.
The North Western hub is also currently providing mentoring and incubation space to two further creative social enterprise businesses; Culture Craft, whose business focuses on combining contemporary art and metal work, and Urban Visuals, whose social enterprise focuses on contemporary street art.
The Western Hub based in Strabane is currently working with a newly established craft collective that are trading from the test retail unit based at the hub. DCAL have also supported this project.
Through the North West Socio Economic Development Programme, a number of cultural hubs received funding to purchase high tech equipment and software. These included hubs in Coleraine, Portstewart and Limavady such as the Ballysally Youth and Community Centre, Flowerfield and the Glens Community Association. These hubs can provide a centre of gravity for localised and joined up approaches to cultural-led community engagement, growing the creative industries and wider economic and social development.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2046074%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235406","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235406"}},{"id":"235159","reference":"AQW 45988/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-19","answerBy":"2015-06-04","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail all of the steps taken, since the Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015, to further the proposals for prohibiting unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services.","answerText":"Following our Ministerial statement on 19 February 2015, departmental officials have been engaged in developing a policy consultation document and a supporting Equality Impact Assessment. Officials have also met with departments and key stakeholder organisations to progress the development of these documents. On 15 April 2015, the former Junior Minister Bell and Junior Minister McCann appeared before the Committee for OFMDFM to provide a progress update.","answerHtml":"Following our Ministerial statement on 19 February 2015, departmental officials have been engaged in developing a policy consultation document and a supporting Equality Impact Assessment. Officials have also met with departments and key stakeholder organisations to progress the development of these documents. On 15 April 2015, the former Junior Minister Bell and Junior Minister McCann appeared before the Committee for OFMDFM to provide a progress update.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045988%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235159","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235159"}},{"id":"235156","reference":"AQW 45986/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-19","answerBy":"2015-06-04","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how he will ensure that current data for recipients of the Independent Living Fund (ILF) in Northern Ireland is transferred securely and safely to the Scottish Independent Living Fund Infrastructure, as successor to the UK Independent Living Fund .","answerText":"My officials have liaised closely with senior officials from ILF UK and they are currently drafting an agreement with ILF UK in respect of the secure transfer of ILF NI users’ data to the Scottish Independent Living Fund (via the Scottish Government).","answerHtml":"My officials have liaised closely with senior officials from ILF UK and they are currently drafting an agreement with ILF UK in respect of the secure transfer of ILF NI users’ data to the Scottish Independent Living Fund (via the Scottish Government).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045986%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235156","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235156"}},{"id":"235155","reference":"AQW 45985/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-19","answerBy":"2015-06-04","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the consultation document on the proposals for prohibiting unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services will be issued.","answerText":"The consultation document is close to being finalised. Subject to agreement, we aim to issue the consultation document before the Summer Recess. The public consultation period will last for a minimum of 12 weeks.","answerHtml":"The consultation document is close to being finalised. Subject to agreement, we aim to issue the consultation document before the Summer Recess. The public consultation period will last for a minimum of 12 weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045985%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235155","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235155"}},{"id":"235152","reference":"AQW 45983/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-19","answerBy":"2015-05-27","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what immediate steps are being taken to ensure that all Northern Ireland recipients of the Independent Living Fund receive information about plans for changes to the administration of their awards.","answerText":"All ILF recipients in NI will receive a letter at the end of May 2015 from ILF UK explaining the change of administration from ILF UK to the Scottish Independent Living Fund. I anticipate that ILF recipients will enjoy a seamless transfer to the new system and the payment of their awards will continue to be made using the existing method of payment.","answerHtml":"All ILF recipients in NI will receive a letter at the end of May 2015 from ILF UK explaining the change of administration from ILF UK to the Scottish Independent Living Fund. I anticipate that ILF recipients will enjoy a seamless transfer to the new system and the payment of their awards will continue to be made using the existing method of payment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045983%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=235152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=235152"}},{"id":"234951","reference":"AQW 45897/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-18","answerBy":"2015-06-03","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the Enterprise Zone in Coleraine.","answerText":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs), which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer ECAs as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering ECAs is ultimately for Treasury.\n\nMy Department’s role in establishing the pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine has been as a facilitator to ensure designation of the Enterprise Zone by Treasury once all negotiations have concluded between relevant stakeholders.\n\nThose discussions have not yet concluded. However, my Department has held a number of meetings with the relevant parties in recent months to highlight the importance of resolving any outstanding issues quickly, and remains hopeful that formal designation can be requested from HM Treasury in the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs), which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer ECAs as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering ECAs is ultimately for Treasury.
My Department’s role in establishing the pilot Enterprise Zone in Coleraine has been as a facilitator to ensure designation of the Enterprise Zone by Treasury once all negotiations have concluded between relevant stakeholders.
Those discussions have not yet concluded. However, my Department has held a number of meetings with the relevant parties in recent months to highlight the importance of resolving any outstanding issues quickly, and remains hopeful that formal designation can be requested from HM Treasury in the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045897%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234951"}},{"id":"234932","reference":"AQW 45881/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-18","answerBy":"2015-06-03","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how his Department engages with relevant stakeholders to identify demand for supported housing for vulnerable adults.","answerText":"The Housing Executive, on behalf of the Department for Social Development, engages with relevant stakeholders in the voluntary and statutory agencies on an ongoing basis to identify demand for supported housing for vulnerable adults.\n\nThe Housing Executive is the administering authority for the Supporting People programme in Northern Ireland and demand for supported housing is identified and considered through a commissioning process.\n\nBoth the Commissioning Body and the 5 local commissioning groups known as the Area Supporting People Partnerships (ASSPS) include representatives from the Health and Social Care Board, Health and Social Care Trusts and the Probation Board for Northern Ireland. During the commissioning process, the needs of vulnerable adults are explored and validated, drawing on relevant research and agreed through consultation with all members.\n\nSupporting People services that have been recommended by the Commissioning Body are then considered by the Housing Executive Board. Once a Supporting People service has been established the Housing Executive monitors quality and performance to ensure the needs of stakeholders and those of the vulnerable person receiving the service are being met.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive, on behalf of the Department for Social Development, engages with relevant stakeholders in the voluntary and statutory agencies on an ongoing basis to identify demand for supported housing for vulnerable adults.
The Housing Executive is the administering authority for the Supporting People programme in Northern Ireland and demand for supported housing is identified and considered through a commissioning process.
Both the Commissioning Body and the 5 local commissioning groups known as the Area Supporting People Partnerships (ASSPS) include representatives from the Health and Social Care Board, Health and Social Care Trusts and the Probation Board for Northern Ireland. During the commissioning process, the needs of vulnerable adults are explored and validated, drawing on relevant research and agreed through consultation with all members.
Supporting People services that have been recommended by the Commissioning Body are then considered by the Housing Executive Board. Once a Supporting People service has been established the Housing Executive monitors quality and performance to ensure the needs of stakeholders and those of the vulnerable person receiving the service are being met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045881%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234932","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234932"}},{"id":"234924","reference":"AQW 45877/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-18","answerBy":"2015-06-03","answered":"2015-07-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what funding has been made available to implement the Disability Strategy, extended to 2017.","answerText":"We are currently considering a number of projects submitted by departments to deliver the objectives within the Disability Strategy. The proposed projects cover a range of disabilities and a range of ages from children through to older people.\n\nThere are no ring-fenced funds available to take forward these projects within the Delivering Social Change Fund budget. Departments have been asked to consider whether the proposed projects can be funded within their core business.","answerHtml":"We are currently considering a number of projects submitted by departments to deliver the objectives within the Disability Strategy. The proposed projects cover a range of disabilities and a range of ages from children through to older people.
There are no ring-fenced funds available to take forward these projects within the Delivering Social Change Fund budget. Departments have been asked to consider whether the proposed projects can be funded within their core business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045877%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234924"}},{"id":"234923","reference":"AQW 45876/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-18","answerBy":"2015-06-03","answered":"2015-06-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the strategic aims and immediate priorities in the Disability Strategy, as extended to 2017.","answerText":"The Disability Strategy aims to improve the lives of people with disabilities, their families and carers. It also seeks to give people with disabilities the opportunity to participate, contribute and benefit equally from society. Within the Strategy there are 18 strategic priorities, details of which can be found at www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-2012-2015-revised-010313.pdf.","answerHtml":"The Disability Strategy aims to improve the lives of people with disabilities, their families and carers. It also seeks to give people with disabilities the opportunity to participate, contribute and benefit equally from society. Within the Strategy there are 18 strategic priorities, details of which can be found at www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/disability-strategy-2012-2015-revised-010313.pdf.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045876%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234923","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234923"}},{"id":"234918","reference":"AQW 45872/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-18","answerBy":"2015-06-03","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether the report on the delivery of the Disability Stategy for 2013/14 is available in the public domain.","answerText":"The first annual report on the delivery of the Executive’s Disability Strategy, setting out the actions that all departments have undertaken, is currently being finalised and will be published in the near future.","answerHtml":"The first annual report on the delivery of the Executive’s Disability Strategy, setting out the actions that all departments have undertaken, is currently being finalised and will be published in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045872%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234918","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234918"}},{"id":"234861","reference":"AQW 45841/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-15","answerBy":"2015-06-02","answered":"2015-06-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of Disabled Facilities Grant applications which were received by his Department; and of these, to detail (i) how many were successful; and (ii) how many homes were improved as an outcome, in 2014/2015, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The table below, provided by the Housing Executive and broken down by Parliamentary constituency, details:-\n\nThe number of Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) applications made in 2014/15;\n\nThe number of those applications which were approved; and\n\nThe number of applications approved which are complete\n\nDisabled Facilities Grant statistics 2014-15 by Constituency\n\nConstituency\tApplications\tApprovals\tCompletions\nBelfast East\t32\t32\t15\nBelfast North\t68\t68\t33\nBelfast South\t32\t31\t9\nBelfast West\t72\t72\t39\nEast Antrim\t41\t39\t13\nEast Londonderry\t66\t66\t38\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\t103\t103\t44\nFoyle\t96\t85\t37\nLagan Valley\t51\t46\t22\nMid Ulster\t107\t104\t32\nNewry And Armagh\t77\t74\t17\nNorth Antrim\t71\t70\t29\nNorth Down\t38\t38\t18\nSouth Antrim\t39\t39\t18\nSouth Down\t73\t68\t23\nStrangford\t52\t51\t19\nUpper Bann\t76\t65\t21\nWest Tyrone\t114\t110\t44\nTOTAL\t1,208\t1,161\t471\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The table below, provided by the Housing Executive and broken down by Parliamentary constituency, details:-
The number of Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) applications made in 2014/15;
The number of those applications which were approved; and
The number of applications approved which are complete
| Disabled Facilities Grant statistics 2014-15 by Constituency | |||
| Constituency | Applications | Approvals | Completions |
| Belfast East | 32 | 32 | 15 |
| Belfast North | 68 | 68 | 33 |
| Belfast South | 32 | 31 | 9 |
| Belfast West | 72 | 72 | 39 |
| East Antrim | 41 | 39 | 13 |
| East Londonderry | 66 | 66 | 38 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | 103 | 103 | 44 |
| Foyle | 96 | 85 | 37 |
| Lagan Valley | 51 | 46 | 22 |
| Mid Ulster | 107 | 104 | 32 |
| Newry And Armagh | 77 | 74 | 17 |
| North Antrim | 71 | 70 | 29 |
| North Down | 38 | 38 | 18 |
| South Antrim | 39 | 39 | 18 |
| South Down | 73 | 68 | 23 |
| Strangford | 52 | 51 | 19 |
| Upper Bann | 76 | 65 | 21 |
| West Tyrone | 114 | 110 | 44 |
| TOTAL | 1,208 | 1,161 | 471 |
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045841%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234861","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234861"}},{"id":"234857","reference":"AQW 45838/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-15","answerBy":"2015-06-02","answered":"2015-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of how the transfer of powers for economic redevelopment, to new local councils, is likely to impact the community and voluntary sector.","answerText":"At this time I am unable to make an assessment of how the transfer of powers for economic redevelopment to the new local Councils is likely to impact on the Voluntary and Community Sector. However, I have met with all the Councils to discuss the transfer of powers. I, and my Department are keen to support Councils to take on board their new powers and I consider that Councils are best placed to determine how to implement the powers and to maximise benefits for the Voluntary and Community Sector.","answerHtml":"At this time I am unable to make an assessment of how the transfer of powers for economic redevelopment to the new local Councils is likely to impact on the Voluntary and Community Sector. However, I have met with all the Councils to discuss the transfer of powers. I, and my Department are keen to support Councils to take on board their new powers and I consider that Councils are best placed to determine how to implement the powers and to maximise benefits for the Voluntary and Community Sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045838%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234857"}},{"id":"234855","reference":"AQW 45836/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-15","answerBy":"2015-06-02","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what discussions he has had with the new local councils to ensure that economic redevelopment includes consideration of the role, and work, of the community and voluntary sector.","answerText":"The Regeneration Bill will confer powers in relation to urban regeneration and community development on the new Councils from April 2016. It will be for Councils and their locally elected representatives to decide how best to address the needs of their areas through their respective Community Plans.\n\nMy department is committed to supporting the Councils in the lead up to and during the transition. For my part I have completed a series of meetings with Councillors and officials from each of the new Council areas where I discussed the transferring budgets alongside local issues raised. These meetings did not focus on the work of the community and voluntary sector.\n\nHowever my Department has previously met with Councils to provide information on the department’s work in relation to the Urban Regeneration and Community Development Policy Framework. These discussions included information on supporting action 4 of the Framework, to promote an effective and efficient voluntary and community sector.","answerHtml":"The Regeneration Bill will confer powers in relation to urban regeneration and community development on the new Councils from April 2016. It will be for Councils and their locally elected representatives to decide how best to address the needs of their areas through their respective Community Plans.
My department is committed to supporting the Councils in the lead up to and during the transition. For my part I have completed a series of meetings with Councillors and officials from each of the new Council areas where I discussed the transferring budgets alongside local issues raised. These meetings did not focus on the work of the community and voluntary sector.
However my Department has previously met with Councils to provide information on the department’s work in relation to the Urban Regeneration and Community Development Policy Framework. These discussions included information on supporting action 4 of the Framework, to promote an effective and efficient voluntary and community sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045836%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234855","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234855"}},{"id":"234853","reference":"AQW 45834/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-15","answerBy":"2015-06-02","answered":"2015-06-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department is working with the Department for Regional Development to deliver the commitment to tackle poverty and social isolation, through providing rural community transport and protecting the existing services.","answerText":"Through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme my Department continues to fund the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) working in partnership with the Department for Regional Development (DRD). This Scheme provides free or half fare travel to those rural dwellers with a SmartPass (mainly the elderly and disabled) on Rural Community Transport Partnership vehicles across the north of Ireland.","answerHtml":"Through the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation Programme my Department continues to fund the Assisted Rural Travel Scheme (ARTS) working in partnership with the Department for Regional Development (DRD). This Scheme provides free or half fare travel to those rural dwellers with a SmartPass (mainly the elderly and disabled) on Rural Community Transport Partnership vehicles across the north of Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045834%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234853","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234853"}},{"id":"234852","reference":"AQW 45833/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-15","answerBy":"2015-06-02","answered":"2015-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department is working with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to maximize the numbers of rural dwellers accessing high speed broadband.","answerText":"My Department has provided a total of £7.5m to date, split £2.5m to the Next Generation Broadband project and £5m to the NI Broadband Improvement Project, both being delivered on the ground by Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment (DETI). These funds have resulted in 17,000 and 14,000 rural premises being able to access broadband if they so wish. My officials work closely with their counterparts in DETI on a day to day basis regarding broadband.","answerHtml":"My Department has provided a total of £7.5m to date, split £2.5m to the Next Generation Broadband project and £5m to the NI Broadband Improvement Project, both being delivered on the ground by Department of Enterprise Trade and Investment (DETI). These funds have resulted in 17,000 and 14,000 rural premises being able to access broadband if they so wish. My officials work closely with their counterparts in DETI on a day to day basis regarding broadband.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045833%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234852","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234852"}},{"id":"234620","reference":"AQW 45751/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-14","answerBy":"2015-06-01","answered":"2015-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development why the cost per trip varies between rural community transport partnerships.","answerText":"Based upon the information that has been provided to my Department by the Partnerships in audited accounts from previous years, the cost per trip does vary quite widely across the organisations. There may be a number of reasons for this variation. These may include the geographical size of each partnership area, the distance members live from the Partnership location and local services, and the administrative and operational costs. If, for example, we compare cost per miles provided, the position is very different. This suggests some provide longer trips for their members and others provide more trips for shorter distances. It has been suggested that my Department should allocate funding based on number of trips, but I would caution that this may not be the best option for a number of reasons.\n\nMy Department can, in accordance with the Transport (NI) Act 2011 provide grant funding to the Community Transport Partnerships for transport services. The policy aim is to supplement Public Transport services for those with a disability, the elderly or living in rural areas.\n\nThe decision on who gets the services and the frequency of trips is a matter for the Partnerships to determine. They are best placed to assess needs in their local areas. I would caution against simply looking at cost per trip in isolation without consideration of the needs of individuals who may require transport for longer distances.\n\nI believe the Partnerships do provide a very valuable service but they must operate in as efficient way as possible. It is also important that funding takes account of relevant Procurement and EU Regulations. I would caution the member that if this doesn’t happen the current grant funding regime could be threatened.","answerHtml":"Based upon the information that has been provided to my Department by the Partnerships in audited accounts from previous years, the cost per trip does vary quite widely across the organisations. There may be a number of reasons for this variation. These may include the geographical size of each partnership area, the distance members live from the Partnership location and local services, and the administrative and operational costs. If, for example, we compare cost per miles provided, the position is very different. This suggests some provide longer trips for their members and others provide more trips for shorter distances. It has been suggested that my Department should allocate funding based on number of trips, but I would caution that this may not be the best option for a number of reasons.
My Department can, in accordance with the Transport (NI) Act 2011 provide grant funding to the Community Transport Partnerships for transport services. The policy aim is to supplement Public Transport services for those with a disability, the elderly or living in rural areas.
The decision on who gets the services and the frequency of trips is a matter for the Partnerships to determine. They are best placed to assess needs in their local areas. I would caution against simply looking at cost per trip in isolation without consideration of the needs of individuals who may require transport for longer distances.
I believe the Partnerships do provide a very valuable service but they must operate in as efficient way as possible. It is also important that funding takes account of relevant Procurement and EU Regulations. I would caution the member that if this doesn’t happen the current grant funding regime could be threatened.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045751%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234620","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234620"}},{"id":"234618","reference":"AQW 45750/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-14","answerBy":"2015-06-01","answered":"2015-06-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the civic advisory panel proposed in the Stormont House Agreement which was to be in place by June 2015.","answerText":"Arrangements for establishing a new model for engaging with civic society, as envisaged in the Stormont House Agreement, are currently under consideration by the Executive party leaders.","answerHtml":"Arrangements for establishing a new model for engaging with civic society, as envisaged in the Stormont House Agreement, are currently under consideration by the Executive party leaders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045750%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234618","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234618"}},{"id":"234617","reference":"AQW 45749/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-14","answerBy":"2015-06-01","answered":"2015-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to list the grants and funding streams which his Department (i) has facilitated for applications in 2014/2015; and (ii) intend to open for applications in 2015/2016.","answerText":"In 2014/15 the Department for Social Development has facilitated applications for the following grants/funding streams:\n\nNeighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund;\n\nAreas at Risk;\n\nSupport for the voluntary and community sector in things such as: Generalist Advice, Volunteering, women in disadvantaged areas, community support and investment, sustainability, women’s centres childcare, faith based engagement and national citizen’s service;\n\nUrban Development Grants;\n\nVolunteering Small Grants;\n\nCommunity Care Grants;\n\nBudgeting Loans;\n\nCrisis Loans;\n\nBelfast City Centre Event Grants;\n\nBelfast City Centre Community Activity Grants.\n\nNorthern Ireland Housing Executive grants/funding streams:\n\nCommunity Safety Grants;\n\nCommunity Cohesion Programmes including: Estate Based, Better Bonfires and Re-Imaging Communities;\n\nPrivate Sector Improvement Grants including: Disabled Facilities Grants, Repairs, Renovation, Replacement, Home Repairs Assistance; Houses in Multiple Occupation Grants; Group Repair Scheme, Boiler Replacement Scheme; Warm Homes Scheme and Affordable Warmth Scheme.\n\nIn 2015/16 the Department intends to open the following grants/funding streams to new applications:\n\nVolunteering Small Grants;\n\nCommunity Care Grants;\n\nBudgeting Loans;\n\nCrisis Loans;\n\nBelfast City Centre Events Grants;\n\nBelfast City Centre Community Activity Grants;\n\nNorthern Ireland Housing Executive grants/funding streams:\n\nCommunity Safety Grants;\n\nCommunity Cohesion Programmes including: Estate Based, Better Bonfires and Re-Imaging Communities;\n\nPrivate Sector Improvement Grants including: Disabled Facilities Grants, Repairs, Renovation, Replacement, Home Repairs Assistance; Houses in Multiple Occupation Grants; Group Repair Scheme, Boiler Replacement Scheme; and Affordable Warmth Scheme.","answerHtml":"In 2014/15 the Department for Social Development has facilitated applications for the following grants/funding streams:
Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund;
Areas at Risk;
Support for the voluntary and community sector in things such as: Generalist Advice, Volunteering, women in disadvantaged areas, community support and investment, sustainability, women’s centres childcare, faith based engagement and national citizen’s service;
Urban Development Grants;
Volunteering Small Grants;
Community Care Grants;
Budgeting Loans;
Crisis Loans;
Belfast City Centre Event Grants;
Belfast City Centre Community Activity Grants.
Northern Ireland Housing Executive grants/funding streams:
Community Safety Grants;
Community Cohesion Programmes including: Estate Based, Better Bonfires and Re-Imaging Communities;
Private Sector Improvement Grants including: Disabled Facilities Grants, Repairs, Renovation, Replacement, Home Repairs Assistance; Houses in Multiple Occupation Grants; Group Repair Scheme, Boiler Replacement Scheme; Warm Homes Scheme and Affordable Warmth Scheme.
In 2015/16 the Department intends to open the following grants/funding streams to new applications:
Volunteering Small Grants;
Community Care Grants;
Budgeting Loans;
Crisis Loans;
Belfast City Centre Events Grants;
Belfast City Centre Community Activity Grants;
Northern Ireland Housing Executive grants/funding streams:
Community Safety Grants;
Community Cohesion Programmes including: Estate Based, Better Bonfires and Re-Imaging Communities;
Private Sector Improvement Grants including: Disabled Facilities Grants, Repairs, Renovation, Replacement, Home Repairs Assistance; Houses in Multiple Occupation Grants; Group Repair Scheme, Boiler Replacement Scheme; and Affordable Warmth Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045749%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234617","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234617"}},{"id":"234616","reference":"AQW 45748/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-14","answerBy":"2015-06-01","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to list the grants and funding streams which his Department (i) has facilitated for applications in 2014/2015; and (ii) intend to open for applications in 2015/2016.","answerText":"Grants\tFunding Streams\n2014/15\t2015/16\t2014/15\t2015/16\nCapability Development Solutions\tCapability Development Solutions\tAccelerator Programme\tAccelerator Programme\nCapability Development Solutions\tCapability Development Solutions\tAgri-Food LoanScheme\tAgri-Food Loan Scheme\nCollaborative Grant for R&D\tCollaborative Grant for R&D\tCo-Fund NI\tCo-Fund NI\nCollaborative Network Programme\tCollaborative Network Programme\tDevelopment Funds (Crescent Capital III & BoI Kernel Capital)\tDevelopment Funds (Crescent Capital III & BoI Kernel Capital)\nCompetence Centre Programme\tCompetence Centre Programme\tEnergy Efficiency Loan Scheme\tEnergy Efficiency Loan Scheme\nDesign Service\tDesign Service\tGrowth Loan Fund\tGrowth Loan Fund\nGrant for R&D\tGrant for R&D\tNI Small Business Loan Fund\tNI Small Business Loan Fund\nGrowth Accelerator Programme (GAP)\tGrowth Accelerator Programme (GAP)\tNorthern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy\tNorthern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy\nInnovation Vouchers\tInnovation Vouchers\tSelective Financial Assistance\tSelective Financial Assistance\nInward visits\tInward visits\tSUPL (Sustainable Utilisation of Poultry Litter)\tSUPL (Sustainable Utilisation of Poultry Litter)\nKnowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)\tKnowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP)\ttechstart NI – QUB and UU Fund\ttechstart NI – QUB and UU Fund\nLED Measure\tLED Measure\ttechstart NI – SME Fund\ttechstart NI – SME Fund\nLegal advice on export contracts\tLegal advice on export contracts\t\tGrade A Office Accommodation Loan/Equity Fund\nMarket Visits & Exhibitions\tMarket Visits & Exhibitions\nMIS (Management Information Systems) Grant and ICT Advisory Services\tMIS (Management Information Systems) Grant and ICT Advisory Services\nNorthern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy\tNorthern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy\nProject Definition R&D\tProject Definition R&D\nProof of Concept\tProof of Concept\nPropel\tPropel\nProperty Assistance\tProperty Assistance\nRegional Start Initiative\tRegional Start Initiative\nSC21 Aerospace Supply Chain Programme\tSC21 Aerospace Supply Chain Programme\nSectoral Support to the Creative Industries Sector Craft NI\tSectoral Support to the Creative Industries Sector Craft NI\nSelective Financial Assistance\tSelective Financial Assistance\nSkills Advancement Grant\tSkills Advancement Grant\nSkills Growth Programme\tSkills Growth Programme\nSocial Entrepreneurship Programme\tProgramme ends 3rd July 2015\nSolex\tSolex\nStarter Market Initiatives – Czech-it-out, Going Dutch\tStarter Market Initiatives – Czech-it-out, Going Dutch\nTDI (Technical Development Incentive) Grant Scheme\tTDI (Technical Development Incentive) Grant Scheme\ntechstart NI – Proof of Concept Fund\ttechstart NI – Proof of Concept Fund\nThe Leader Programme\tThe Leader Programme\nThe Leadership Team Programme\tThe Leadership Team Programme\nTranslation / interpreting consultancy services\tTranslation / interpreting consultancy services\nFinance Vouchers\tFinance Vouchers\nJobs Fund Support\tEnded 31st March 2015\nGrade A Office Accommodation Loan/Equity Fund\nBelfast and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme\tBelfast and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme.\nLondonderry and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme\nRenewable Heat\tRenewable Heat\tRenewable Heat\tRenewable Heat\nGas to the West\nFTC Funding application approved for building project of Concourse III Northern Ireland Science Park\tTo consider FTC funding for extension to Innovation Centre of the Northern Ireland Science Park\n\nIn addition, I have asked my officials to scope the potential for a Northern Ireland specific Air Route Development Fund for routes commencing from 2016/17.","answerHtml":"| Grants | Funding Streams | ||
| 2014/15 | 2015/16 | 2014/15 | 2015/16 |
| Capability Development Solutions | Capability Development Solutions | Accelerator Programme | Accelerator Programme |
| Capability Development Solutions | Capability Development Solutions | Agri-Food LoanScheme | Agri-Food Loan Scheme |
| Collaborative Grant for R&D | Collaborative Grant for R&D | Co-Fund NI | Co-Fund NI |
| Collaborative Network Programme | Collaborative Network Programme | Development Funds (Crescent Capital III & BoI Kernel Capital) | Development Funds (Crescent Capital III & BoI Kernel Capital) |
| Competence Centre Programme | Competence Centre Programme | Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme | Energy Efficiency Loan Scheme |
| Design Service | Design Service | Growth Loan Fund | Growth Loan Fund |
| Grant for R&D | Grant for R&D | NI Small Business Loan Fund | NI Small Business Loan Fund |
| Growth Accelerator Programme (GAP) | Growth Accelerator Programme (GAP) | Northern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy | Northern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy |
| Innovation Vouchers | Innovation Vouchers | Selective Financial Assistance | Selective Financial Assistance |
| Inward visits | Inward visits | SUPL (Sustainable Utilisation of Poultry Litter) | SUPL (Sustainable Utilisation of Poultry Litter) |
| Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) | Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP) | techstart NI – QUB and UU Fund | techstart NI – QUB and UU Fund |
| LED Measure | LED Measure | techstart NI – SME Fund | techstart NI – SME Fund |
| Legal advice on export contracts | Legal advice on export contracts | Grade A Office Accommodation Loan/Equity Fund | |
| Market Visits & Exhibitions | Market Visits & Exhibitions | ||
| MIS (Management Information Systems) Grant and ICT Advisory Services | MIS (Management Information Systems) Grant and ICT Advisory Services | ||
| Northern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy | Northern Ireland Screen Commission – Opening Doors Strategy | ||
| Project Definition R&D | Project Definition R&D | ||
| Proof of Concept | Proof of Concept | ||
| Propel | Propel | ||
| Property Assistance | Property Assistance | ||
| Regional Start Initiative | Regional Start Initiative | ||
| SC21 Aerospace Supply Chain Programme | SC21 Aerospace Supply Chain Programme | ||
| Sectoral Support to the Creative Industries Sector Craft NI | Sectoral Support to the Creative Industries Sector Craft NI | ||
| Selective Financial Assistance | Selective Financial Assistance | ||
| Skills Advancement Grant | Skills Advancement Grant | ||
| Skills Growth Programme | Skills Growth Programme | ||
| Social Entrepreneurship Programme | Programme ends 3rd July 2015 | ||
| Solex | Solex | ||
| Starter Market Initiatives – Czech-it-out, Going Dutch | Starter Market Initiatives – Czech-it-out, Going Dutch | ||
| TDI (Technical Development Incentive) Grant Scheme | TDI (Technical Development Incentive) Grant Scheme | ||
| techstart NI – Proof of Concept Fund | techstart NI – Proof of Concept Fund | ||
| The Leader Programme | The Leader Programme | ||
| The Leadership Team Programme | The Leadership Team Programme | ||
| Translation / interpreting consultancy services | Translation / interpreting consultancy services | ||
| Finance Vouchers | Finance Vouchers | ||
| Jobs Fund Support | Ended 31st March 2015 | ||
| Grade A Office Accommodation Loan/Equity Fund | |||
| Belfast and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme | Belfast and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme. | ||
| Londonderry and Northern Ireland Conference Subvention Scheme | |||
| Renewable Heat | Renewable Heat | Renewable Heat | Renewable Heat |
| Gas to the West | |||
| FTC Funding application approved for building project of Concourse III Northern Ireland Science Park | To consider FTC funding for extension to Innovation Centre of the Northern Ireland Science Park |
In addition, I have asked my officials to scope the potential for a Northern Ireland specific Air Route Development Fund for routes commencing from 2016/17.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045748%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234616","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234616"}},{"id":"234612","reference":"AQW 45747/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-14","answerBy":"2015-06-01","answered":"2015-06-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to list the grants and funding streams which her Department (i) has facilitated for applications in 2014/2015; and (ii) intend to open for applications in 2015/2016.","answerText":"The information you request is set out in the attached schedules. I should point out that the North South Bodies operate on a calendar rather than a fiscal year basis.\n\n2014/15\n\nProvider\tYear\tGrant Scheme\tFunding Stream\nWaterways Ireland\t2014\tSponsorship Programme that allows relevant groups to apply for a grant to support a waterway based event/festival etc.\nWaterways Ireland\t2015\tSponsorship Programme that allows relevant groups to apply for a grant to support a waterway based event/festival etc.\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim na gCampaí Samhraidh (Summer camps)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tCeanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tÁisaonad [Coláiste Ollscoile Naomh Muire, Béal Feirste] – maoiniú tionscadail (Education Aids)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Scoláireachtaí [trí Ghael Linn, Conradh na Gaeilge, Cumann na bhFiann, Oideas Gael, Cumann an Phiarsaigh] (Scholarships)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tCiste Infheistíochta do Bhunú Soláthar Naíscolaíochta (Investment Fund for Establishing Pre-School Provision)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tCiste Leabhar do leabharlanna scoile (Book fund for school libraries)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tCiste do Ghaelcholáistí (Fund for Irish language colleges)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Fhoghlaim Ríomhchuidithe (Aided Learning Scheme)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Fhoghlaim Fadsaoil (Lifelong Learning Scheme)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Thacaíochta don Ghaelscolaíocht (Support Scheme for IME)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Bunaithe agus Forbartha Gréasáin (Establishing and Developing language Networks)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Tacaíochta Gnó (Business Support Scheme)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Nuálachais sa Réimse Gnó (Innovation in Business Scheme)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Nuachtán Ar Líne (On-line Newspaper)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim Iris Stílmhaireachtála (Lifestyle Magazine)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tNa Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tIonaid Ghaeilge (Irish language Centres)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim na gComplachtaí Drámaíochta (Drama Companies)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim na bhFéilte (Festivals Scheme)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéim na nOifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officers – in local authorities)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014\tScéimeanna Cholmcille (various grants to support the mission of Colmcille)\tColmcille\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS)\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) - Small Grants\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups - Small Grants\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tPartnership Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tFestival Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tUlster-Scots Summer Schools Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014\tMusic and Dance Tuition\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2014/15\tCommunity Impact Grants\nForas na Gaeilge\t2014/15\tScéim na nImeachtaí Óige (Youth Events)\tEducation\nDepartment\t2014/15\tSign Language Partnership Group\nDepartment\t2014/15\tCultural Awareness Strategy\nDepartment\t2014/15\tGaeltacht Bursary Scheme\nDepartment\t2014/15\t\tCore Funding:- Lagan Canal Trust, Lough Neagh Partnership, Lagan Valley Regional Park & Outdoor Recreation NI\nDepartment\t2014/15\tCommunity Festivals Fund\nStadium Programme\t2014/15\tCregagh Primary School - ICT project\tPETPSE\nStadium Programme\t2014/15\tFalls Partnership Initiative - Roden Street Community Group\tPETPSE\nStadium Programme\t2014/15\tFalls Partnership Initiative - Divis Joint Development Committee\tPETPSE\nStadium Programme\t2014/15\tTackling Poverty through Sport - IFA\tPETPSE\nStadium Programme\t2014/15\tTackling Poverty through Sport - GAA\tPETPSE\nStadium Programme\t2014/15\tTackling Poverty through Sport - IRFU\tPETPSE\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tCreative Industries Innovation Fund\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tAnnual Funding Programme\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tMusical Instruments for Bands\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Travel Awards\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Individuals)\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Organisations)\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Self-Arranged Residencies\nNorthern Ireland Museums Council\t2014/15\tAccredited Museum Grant Programme\nNorthern Ireland Museums Council\t2014/15\tAcquisition Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tNorthern Ireland Screen Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tUlster Scots Broadcast Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tSkills Development\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tIrish Language Broadcast Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tCreative Learning Centres (DCAL funding)\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tLottery Film Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tThird Party Organisations - Exhibition sector (DCAL funding)\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tINTO FILM Clubs (DCAL funding)\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2014/15\tDevelopment Activity\nDepartment\t2014/15\tN/A\tTBUC - Cross Community Youth Sports Programme\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim na gCampaí Samhraidh (Summer camps)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tCeanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tÁisaonad [Coláiste Ollscoile Naomh Muire, Béal Feirste] – maoiniú tionscadail (Education Aids)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Scoláireachtaí [trí Ghael Linn, Conradh na Gaeilge, Cumann na bhFiann, Oideas Gael, Cumann an Phiarsaigh] (Scholarships)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tCiste Infheistíochta do Bhunú Soláthar Naíscolaíochta (Investment Fund for Establishing Pre-School Provision)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Fhoghlaim Ríomhchuidithe (Aided Learning Scheme)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Fhoghlaim Fadsaoil (Lifelong Learning Scheme)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Thacaíochta don Ghaelscolaíocht (Support Scheme for IME)\tEducation\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Phobail Gaeilge (Irish language in the Community)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Raidió Pobail (Community Radio)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Bunaithe agus Forbartha Gréasáin (Establishing and Developing language Networks)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Tacaíochta Gnó (Business Support Scheme)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Nuálachais sa Réimse Gnó (Innovation in Business Scheme)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Iris Chlóite (Printed Magazine)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Líonraí Gaeilge (Irish language Networks)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tNa Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tNa Bailte Seirbhíse Gaeltachta (Gaeltacht Service Towns – proposed by year end)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tMisean Oirthear Bhéal Feirste (East Belfast Mission)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tIonaid Ghaeilge (Irish language Centres)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim na gComplachtaí Drámaíochta (Drama Companies)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim na bhFéilte (Festivals Scheme)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim na nOifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officers – in local authorities)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Sainchúrsaí Oiliúna don Earnáil Phoiblí (Specialised Training for the Public Service)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéimeanna Cholmcille (various grants to support the mission of Colmcille)\tColmcille\nForas na Gaeilge\t2015\tScéim Nuachtán Ar Líne (On-line Newspaper)\tCommunity and Business\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS)\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) - Small Grants\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups - Small Grants\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tPartnership Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tFestival Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tUlster-Scots Summer Schools Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015\tMusic and Dance Tuition\nSport Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tAthlete Investment Programme\nSport Northern Ireland\t2014/15\tSport Matters Community Capital Programme\n\n2015/16\n\nProvider\tYear\tGrant Scheme\tFunding Stream\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2015/16\tCommunity Impact Grants\nDepartment\t2015/16\tN/A\tTBUC - Cross Community Youth Sports Programme\nDepartment\t2015/16\t\tDCAL Inland Fisheries Group Funding -Angling Outreach Event Fund\nDepartment\t2015/16\tSign Language Partnership Group\nDepartment\t2015/16\tGaeltacht Bursary Scheme\nDepartment\t2015/16\t\tCore Funding:- Lagan Canal Trust, Lagan Valley Regional Park & Outdoor Recreation NI\nDepartment\t2015/16\tCommunity Festivals Fund\nDepartment\t2015/16\tSub Regional Programme for Football\tSub Regional Programme\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2015/16\tAnnual Funding Programme\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2015/16\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Travel Awards\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2015/16\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Individuals)\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2015/16\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Organisations)\nArts Council Northern Ireland\t2015/16\tSupport for the Individual Artist - Self-Arranged Residencies\nNorthern Ireland Museums Council\t2015/16\tAccredited Museum Grant Programme\nNorthern Ireland Museums Council\t2015/16\tAcquisition Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tNorthern Ireland Screen Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tUlster Scots Broadcast Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tSkills Development\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tIrish Language Broadcast Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tCreative Learning Centres (DCAL funding)\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tLottery Film Fund\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tThird Party Organisations - Exhibition sector (DCAL funding)\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tINTO FILM Clubs (DCAL funding)\nNorthern Ireland Screen\t2015/16\tDevelopment Activity\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim Bunaithe agus Forbartha Gréasáin (Establishing and Developing language Networks)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim Tacaíochta Gnó (Business Support Scheme)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim Nuálachais sa Réimse Gnó (Innovation in Business Scheme)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim Iris Chlóite (Printed Magazine)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim Nuachtán Ar Líne (On-line Newspaper)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tNa Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tIonaid Ghaeilge (Irish language Centres)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tMisean Oirthear Bhéal Feirste (East Belfast Mission)\tCommunity and Business\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim na gComplachtaí Drámaíochta (Drama Companies)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim na bhFéilte (Festivals Scheme)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim na nOifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officers – in local authorities)\tArts and Public Sector\nForas na Gaeilge\t2016\tScéim Sainchúrsaí Oiliúna don Earnáil Phoiblí (Specialised Training for the Public Service)\tArts and Public Sector\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS)\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) - Small Grants\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tFinancial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups - Small Grants\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tPartnership Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tFestival Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tUlster-Scots Summer Schools Funding\nUlster-Scots Agency\t2016\tMusic and Dance Tuition\nSport Northern Ireland\t2015/16\tAthlete Investment Programme","answerHtml":"The information you request is set out in the attached schedules. I should point out that the North South Bodies operate on a calendar rather than a fiscal year basis.
2014/15
| Provider | Year | Grant Scheme | Funding Stream |
| Waterways Ireland | 2014 | Sponsorship Programme that allows relevant groups to apply for a grant to support a waterway based event/festival etc. | |
| Waterways Ireland | 2015 | Sponsorship Programme that allows relevant groups to apply for a grant to support a waterway based event/festival etc. | |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim na gCampaí Samhraidh (Summer camps) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Áisaonad [Coláiste Ollscoile Naomh Muire, Béal Feirste] – maoiniú tionscadail (Education Aids) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Scoláireachtaí [trí Ghael Linn, Conradh na Gaeilge, Cumann na bhFiann, Oideas Gael, Cumann an Phiarsaigh] (Scholarships) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Ciste Infheistíochta do Bhunú Soláthar Naíscolaíochta (Investment Fund for Establishing Pre-School Provision) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Ciste Leabhar do leabharlanna scoile (Book fund for school libraries) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Ciste do Ghaelcholáistí (Fund for Irish language colleges) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Fhoghlaim Ríomhchuidithe (Aided Learning Scheme) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Fhoghlaim Fadsaoil (Lifelong Learning Scheme) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Thacaíochta don Ghaelscolaíocht (Support Scheme for IME) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Bunaithe agus Forbartha Gréasáin (Establishing and Developing language Networks) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Tacaíochta Gnó (Business Support Scheme) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Nuálachais sa Réimse Gnó (Innovation in Business Scheme) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Nuachtán Ar Líne (On-line Newspaper) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim Iris Stílmhaireachtála (Lifestyle Magazine) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Na Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Ionaid Ghaeilge (Irish language Centres) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim na gComplachtaí Drámaíochta (Drama Companies) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim na bhFéilte (Festivals Scheme) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéim na nOifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officers – in local authorities) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014 | Scéimeanna Cholmcille (various grants to support the mission of Colmcille) | Colmcille |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) - Small Grants | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups - Small Grants | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Partnership Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Festival Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Ulster-Scots Summer Schools Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014 | Music and Dance Tuition | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2014/15 | Community Impact Grants | |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2014/15 | Scéim na nImeachtaí Óige (Youth Events) | Education |
| Department | 2014/15 | Sign Language Partnership Group | |
| Department | 2014/15 | Cultural Awareness Strategy | |
| Department | 2014/15 | Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme | |
| Department | 2014/15 | Core Funding:- Lagan Canal Trust, Lough Neagh Partnership, Lagan Valley Regional Park & Outdoor Recreation NI | |
| Department | 2014/15 | Community Festivals Fund | |
| Stadium Programme | 2014/15 | Cregagh Primary School - ICT project | PETPSE |
| Stadium Programme | 2014/15 | Falls Partnership Initiative - Roden Street Community Group | PETPSE |
| Stadium Programme | 2014/15 | Falls Partnership Initiative - Divis Joint Development Committee | PETPSE |
| Stadium Programme | 2014/15 | Tackling Poverty through Sport - IFA | PETPSE |
| Stadium Programme | 2014/15 | Tackling Poverty through Sport - GAA | PETPSE |
| Stadium Programme | 2014/15 | Tackling Poverty through Sport - IRFU | PETPSE |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Creative Industries Innovation Fund | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Annual Funding Programme | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Musical Instruments for Bands | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Support for the Individual Artist - Travel Awards | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Support for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Individuals) | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Support for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Organisations) | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Support for the Individual Artist - Self-Arranged Residencies | |
| Northern Ireland Museums Council | 2014/15 | Accredited Museum Grant Programme | |
| Northern Ireland Museums Council | 2014/15 | Acquisition Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Northern Ireland Screen Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Ulster Scots Broadcast Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Skills Development | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Irish Language Broadcast Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Creative Learning Centres (DCAL funding) | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Lottery Film Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Third Party Organisations - Exhibition sector (DCAL funding) | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | INTO FILM Clubs (DCAL funding) | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2014/15 | Development Activity | |
| Department | 2014/15 | N/A | TBUC - Cross Community Youth Sports Programme |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim na gCampaí Samhraidh (Summer camps) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Áisaonad [Coláiste Ollscoile Naomh Muire, Béal Feirste] – maoiniú tionscadail (Education Aids) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Scoláireachtaí [trí Ghael Linn, Conradh na Gaeilge, Cumann na bhFiann, Oideas Gael, Cumann an Phiarsaigh] (Scholarships) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Ciste Infheistíochta do Bhunú Soláthar Naíscolaíochta (Investment Fund for Establishing Pre-School Provision) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Fhoghlaim Ríomhchuidithe (Aided Learning Scheme) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Fhoghlaim Fadsaoil (Lifelong Learning Scheme) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Thacaíochta don Ghaelscolaíocht (Support Scheme for IME) | Education |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Phobail Gaeilge (Irish language in the Community) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Raidió Pobail (Community Radio) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Bunaithe agus Forbartha Gréasáin (Establishing and Developing language Networks) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Tacaíochta Gnó (Business Support Scheme) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Nuálachais sa Réimse Gnó (Innovation in Business Scheme) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Iris Chlóite (Printed Magazine) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Líonraí Gaeilge (Irish language Networks) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Na Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Na Bailte Seirbhíse Gaeltachta (Gaeltacht Service Towns – proposed by year end) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Misean Oirthear Bhéal Feirste (East Belfast Mission) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Ionaid Ghaeilge (Irish language Centres) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim na gComplachtaí Drámaíochta (Drama Companies) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim na bhFéilte (Festivals Scheme) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim na nOifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officers – in local authorities) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Sainchúrsaí Oiliúna don Earnáil Phoiblí (Specialised Training for the Public Service) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéimeanna Cholmcille (various grants to support the mission of Colmcille) | Colmcille |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2015 | Scéim Nuachtán Ar Líne (On-line Newspaper) | Community and Business |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) - Small Grants | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups - Small Grants | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Partnership Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Festival Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Ulster-Scots Summer Schools Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015 | Music and Dance Tuition | |
| Sport Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Athlete Investment Programme | |
| Sport Northern Ireland | 2014/15 | Sport Matters Community Capital Programme |
2015/16
| Provider | Year | Grant Scheme | Funding Stream |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2015/16 | Community Impact Grants | |
| Department | 2015/16 | N/A | TBUC - Cross Community Youth Sports Programme |
| Department | 2015/16 | DCAL Inland Fisheries Group Funding -Angling Outreach Event Fund | |
| Department | 2015/16 | Sign Language Partnership Group | |
| Department | 2015/16 | Gaeltacht Bursary Scheme | |
| Department | 2015/16 | Core Funding:- Lagan Canal Trust, Lagan Valley Regional Park & Outdoor Recreation NI | |
| Department | 2015/16 | Community Festivals Fund | |
| Department | 2015/16 | Sub Regional Programme for Football | Sub Regional Programme |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2015/16 | Annual Funding Programme | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2015/16 | Support for the Individual Artist - Travel Awards | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2015/16 | Support for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Individuals) | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2015/16 | Support for the Individual Artist - Artist International Development Fund (Organisations) | |
| Arts Council Northern Ireland | 2015/16 | Support for the Individual Artist - Self-Arranged Residencies | |
| Northern Ireland Museums Council | 2015/16 | Accredited Museum Grant Programme | |
| Northern Ireland Museums Council | 2015/16 | Acquisition Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Northern Ireland Screen Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Ulster Scots Broadcast Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Skills Development | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Irish Language Broadcast Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Creative Learning Centres (DCAL funding) | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Lottery Film Fund | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Third Party Organisations - Exhibition sector (DCAL funding) | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | INTO FILM Clubs (DCAL funding) | |
| Northern Ireland Screen | 2015/16 | Development Activity | |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim Bunaithe agus Forbartha Gréasáin (Establishing and Developing language Networks) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim Tacaíochta Gnó (Business Support Scheme) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim Nuálachais sa Réimse Gnó (Innovation in Business Scheme) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim Iris Chlóite (Printed Magazine) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim Nuachtán Ar Líne (On-line Newspaper) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Na Ceanneagraíochtaí (Lead Organisations) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Ionaid Ghaeilge (Irish language Centres) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Misean Oirthear Bhéal Feirste (East Belfast Mission) | Community and Business |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim na gComplachtaí Drámaíochta (Drama Companies) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim na bhFéilte (Festivals Scheme) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim na nOifigeach Gaeilge (Irish Language Officers – in local authorities) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Foras na Gaeilge | 2016 | Scéim Sainchúrsaí Oiliúna don Earnáil Phoiblí (Specialised Training for the Public Service) | Arts and Public Sector |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) - Small Grants | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Financial Assistance Scheme (FAS) for Voluntary and Community Groups - Small Grants | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Partnership Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Festival Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Ulster-Scots Summer Schools Funding | |
| Ulster-Scots Agency | 2016 | Music and Dance Tuition | |
| Sport Northern Ireland | 2015/16 | Athlete Investment Programme |
Departmental returns on the June monitoring round are due on 4th June. The level of funding available will depend upon a number of factors including the level of resources carried forward under the Budget Exchange Scheme, reduced requirements declared by departments and the position in relation to implementation of the Stormont House Agreement.
It will be for the Executive to agree any allocations in the June monitoring round in the context of pressures identified by departments and the level of resources available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045716%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234431"}},{"id":"234381","reference":"AQW 45709/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-13","answerBy":"2015-05-29","answered":"2015-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what bids he is preparing to submit for the June monitoring round.","answerText":"Work is ongoing on my Department’s return to DFP for the June monitoring round and I am currently considering proposals with officials. At this stage I am unable to confirm what bids, if any, may be submitted.","answerHtml":"Work is ongoing on my Department’s return to DFP for the June monitoring round and I am currently considering proposals with officials. At this stage I am unable to confirm what bids, if any, may be submitted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045709%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234381","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234381"}},{"id":"234380","reference":"AQW 45708/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-13","answerBy":"2015-05-29","answered":"2015-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what bids he is preparing to submit for the June monitoring round.","answerText":"The return date for my Department’s submission to DFP for June Monitoring is 4th June 2015. Prior to this date I will be considering the contents of the submission in terms of bids and any possible reduced requirements. The Environment Committee will also need to be advised of the content of the June Monitoring submission prior to the DFP stated return date. Once DFP have received all Departmental submissions, the Finance Minister will produce an Executive Committee paper for discussion and approval probably around mid June. Then once the Executive Committee has agreed the outcome of June Monitoring, details of all bids will be available.","answerHtml":"The return date for my Department’s submission to DFP for June Monitoring is 4th June 2015. Prior to this date I will be considering the contents of the submission in terms of bids and any possible reduced requirements. The Environment Committee will also need to be advised of the content of the June Monitoring submission prior to the DFP stated return date. Once DFP have received all Departmental submissions, the Finance Minister will produce an Executive Committee paper for discussion and approval probably around mid June. Then once the Executive Committee has agreed the outcome of June Monitoring, details of all bids will be available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045708%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234380","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234380"}},{"id":"234379","reference":"AQW 45707/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-13","answerBy":"2015-05-29","answered":"2015-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what bids he is preparing to submit for the June monitoring round.","answerText":"I am currently in the process of reviewing my budget with a view to submitting bids in the June monitoring round which reflect the policy priorities of my Department.","answerHtml":"I am currently in the process of reviewing my budget with a view to submitting bids in the June monitoring round which reflect the policy priorities of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045707%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234379","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234379"}},{"id":"234374","reference":"AQW 45702/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-13","answerBy":"2015-05-29","answered":"2015-05-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what bids she is preparing to submit for the June monitoring round.","answerText":"In line with previous years my Department’s June Monitoring Round proposals are scheduled to be discussed with the Agriculture and Rural Development Assembly Committee before they are shared with other stakeholders. As this briefing is due to take place on 2 June 2015, it would not be appropriate to disclose my Department’s bids at this stage.","answerHtml":"In line with previous years my Department’s June Monitoring Round proposals are scheduled to be discussed with the Agriculture and Rural Development Assembly Committee before they are shared with other stakeholders. As this briefing is due to take place on 2 June 2015, it would not be appropriate to disclose my Department’s bids at this stage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045702%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234374","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234374"}},{"id":"234202","reference":"AQW 45658/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-12","answerBy":"2015-05-28","answered":"2015-05-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQO 6931/11-15, what support and funding opportunities her Department can offer to existing grassroots level sports initiatives that wish to expand.","answerText":"As I advised in my previous answer to AQO 6931/11-15, Sport NI provides a range of support services and resources to assist those groups wishing to expand, which includes the provision of funding through the Active Awards for Sport programme.\n\nSport NI will allocate approximately £500,000 of Lottery funding to successful applicants through Round 3 of Active Awards for Sport Programme which closed on 13 April 2015. Sport NI received a total of 280 valid applications by the closing date, requesting total funding of £1,734,873. These are currently being assessed and it is anticipated that Letters of Offer will be issued to successful applicants by mid June 2015.\n\nIn addition, on 18 May 2015, Sport NI launched a capital programme which aims to invest Lottery funding of £17.5 million into sports facility projects over a five year period. The facility fund will invest in facilities through three strands:-\n\nSingle Facility: single-sport facilities which seek to increase participation within the club structure\n\nMulti Facility: multi-sport facilities which seek to increase participation across local communities\n\nPerformance Facility: performance sport facilities which meet the needs of community participants and high performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment\n\nSport NI will deliver a number of workshops commencing at the end of May, at this stage specifically for the Single Facility strand, to support potential applicants through the investment process. Details of these workshops can be found at: - http://www.sportni.net/news/sport-northern-ireland-launches-17-5m-investment-for-sports-facilities/\n\nFurthermore, Sport NI offers a ‘signposting’ and funding advice service to organisations (including sports clubs and community groups) who are registered on Sport NI’s Funding Database. The Sport NI website provides information on funding opportunities available from a number of alternate sources including Big Lottery Fund, Comic Relief and a range of other charitable funding organisations.","answerHtml":"As I advised in my previous answer to AQO 6931/11-15, Sport NI provides a range of support services and resources to assist those groups wishing to expand, which includes the provision of funding through the Active Awards for Sport programme.
Sport NI will allocate approximately £500,000 of Lottery funding to successful applicants through Round 3 of Active Awards for Sport Programme which closed on 13 April 2015. Sport NI received a total of 280 valid applications by the closing date, requesting total funding of £1,734,873. These are currently being assessed and it is anticipated that Letters of Offer will be issued to successful applicants by mid June 2015.
In addition, on 18 May 2015, Sport NI launched a capital programme which aims to invest Lottery funding of £17.5 million into sports facility projects over a five year period. The facility fund will invest in facilities through three strands:-
Single Facility: single-sport facilities which seek to increase participation within the club structure
Multi Facility: multi-sport facilities which seek to increase participation across local communities
Performance Facility: performance sport facilities which meet the needs of community participants and high performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment
Sport NI will deliver a number of workshops commencing at the end of May, at this stage specifically for the Single Facility strand, to support potential applicants through the investment process. Details of these workshops can be found at: - http://www.sportni.net/news/sport-northern-ireland-launches-17-5m-investment-for-sports-facilities/
Furthermore, Sport NI offers a ‘signposting’ and funding advice service to organisations (including sports clubs and community groups) who are registered on Sport NI’s Funding Database. The Sport NI website provides information on funding opportunities available from a number of alternate sources including Big Lottery Fund, Comic Relief and a range of other charitable funding organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045658%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234202","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234202"}},{"id":"234156","reference":"AQW 45655/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-12","answerBy":"2015-05-28","answered":"2015-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel pursuant to AQW 40452/11-15, what communication has her Department had with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation regarding VAT rates and what plans she has to raise the issue of a separate VAT rate for the Northern Ireland tourism/hospitality sector with HM Treasury.","answerText":"I understand AQW 40452/11-15 was posed to my predecessor, and I will now answer this question in my capacity as Finance Minister in conjunction with AQW 45655/11-15.\n\nWhile I have not had any communication with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, they have raised the issue of a reduced VAT rate for tourism and hospitality products and services with me in my previous Ministerial role.\n\nEU law largely prohibits a regional variation in VAT rates, and as such, any reduction would need to be applied across the UK. That said, I firmly believe that such a measure would be hugely beneficial, not only for the Northern Ireland tourism industry, but for that of the UK as a whole. This is a matter my predecessor raised as recently as February this year with the then Financial Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke MP where he urged the Treasury to consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response, the Financial Secretary rejected the call for such a reduction citing the cost to the Exchequer.\n\nI will continue to press the case for such a VAT reduction and I intend writing again to Mr Gauke following his re-appointment as Financial Secretary in the new Government.","answerHtml":"I understand AQW 40452/11-15 was posed to my predecessor, and I will now answer this question in my capacity as Finance Minister in conjunction with AQW 45655/11-15.
While I have not had any communication with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, they have raised the issue of a reduced VAT rate for tourism and hospitality products and services with me in my previous Ministerial role.
EU law largely prohibits a regional variation in VAT rates, and as such, any reduction would need to be applied across the UK. That said, I firmly believe that such a measure would be hugely beneficial, not only for the Northern Ireland tourism industry, but for that of the UK as a whole. This is a matter my predecessor raised as recently as February this year with the then Financial Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke MP where he urged the Treasury to consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response, the Financial Secretary rejected the call for such a reduction citing the cost to the Exchequer.
I will continue to press the case for such a VAT reduction and I intend writing again to Mr Gauke following his re-appointment as Financial Secretary in the new Government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045655%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234156","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234156"}},{"id":"234152","reference":"AQW 45654/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-12","answerBy":"2015-05-28","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 40568/11-15, to detail the Area Plan projects that were informed by the Steering Group within the Social Investment Fund Northern Zone that their applications had not been successful.","answerText":"In November 2013, the Northern Zone’s Steering Group deemed 97 concepts ineligible for SIF support and it was the responsibility of the Steering Group Chairs to inform those involved of the decisions. The remaining 10 projects were prioritised and of these six projects will be funded within the Zone’s £9million funding allocation. Details of these are available on the OFMDFM website. The ineligible Area Plan projects comprised 64 capital and 33 revenue concepts and details of each have been placed in the Assembly Library.","answerHtml":"In November 2013, the Northern Zone’s Steering Group deemed 97 concepts ineligible for SIF support and it was the responsibility of the Steering Group Chairs to inform those involved of the decisions. The remaining 10 projects were prioritised and of these six projects will be funded within the Zone’s £9million funding allocation. Details of these are available on the OFMDFM website. The ineligible Area Plan projects comprised 64 capital and 33 revenue concepts and details of each have been placed in the Assembly Library.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045654%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234152","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234152"}},{"id":"234150","reference":"AQW 45652/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-12","answerBy":"2015-05-28","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department is supporting young people with mental health issues in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Table 1 below contains a breakdown of the number of children on waiting lists for a diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder by Health and Social Care Trust area at 31 March 2015.\n\nTable 1\n\nHealth and Social Care Trust area\tNo. of Children\nBelfast\t663\nNorthern\t377\nSouth Eastern\t128\nSouthern\t24\nWestern\t191\nTotal\t1,383","answerHtml":"Table 1 below contains a breakdown of the number of children on waiting lists for a diagnosis for Autism Spectrum Disorder by Health and Social Care Trust area at 31 March 2015.
Table 1
| Health and Social Care Trust area | No. of Children |
| Belfast | 663 |
| Northern | 377 |
| South Eastern | 128 |
| Southern | 24 |
| Western | 191 |
| Total | 1,383 |
Improving voluntary engagement with the people in the target groups is critical to the success of ‘Enabling Success’. The strategy proposes to do this through a number of projects.
The first project, the development of an outcomes framework (Project A), has already commenced with the establishment of an expert Design Team. The Design Team aims to develop an end-user focused outcomes framework using a co-design approach to inform and guide the competitive pilot testing process (Project B) going forward.
The second project is to undertake an innovative regime of competitive pilot testing (Project B) to identify, develop and test a range of approaches to improve outcomes for the target groups. Successful approaches, such as more effective ways to improve engagement with the target groups, will then be developed and evaluated further and potentially upscaled.
This is a major project which will be run in three phases over a four year project lifecycle. The project will be initiated at the earliest possible opportunity, subject to my Department securing the necessary resources to take the work forward.
In addition, the Department for Social Development is currently taking forward a geographically focused pilot in 2015/16 (Project C). This pilot is aimed at early engagement with one of the key target groups and improving employment outcomes through early intervention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045598%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234010","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234010"}},{"id":"234009","reference":"AQW 45597/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-11","answerBy":"2015-05-27","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for (i) an update on the Northern Ireland Investment Fund, including progress on the feasibility study and (ii) when the outcomes of this study will be published.","answerText":"The feasibility study is the first step towards establishing a Northern Ireland Investment Fund. Over the last three months consultants Deloitte have advanced this study, which included consultation with a wide range of local stakeholders.\n\nThe study is on course to complete in the next few weeks and following its conclusion the cross departmental Project Board, established to take this work forward, will consider the implications. My officials will also need to liaise with their European Investment Bank counterparts. This should then result in a set of policy recommendations, which I intend bringing to the Executive. Only when I have Executive agreement on the way forward, can I inform the Assembly on the exact nature of the proposed Fund.","answerHtml":"The feasibility study is the first step towards establishing a Northern Ireland Investment Fund. Over the last three months consultants Deloitte have advanced this study, which included consultation with a wide range of local stakeholders.
The study is on course to complete in the next few weeks and following its conclusion the cross departmental Project Board, established to take this work forward, will consider the implications. My officials will also need to liaise with their European Investment Bank counterparts. This should then result in a set of policy recommendations, which I intend bringing to the Executive. Only when I have Executive agreement on the way forward, can I inform the Assembly on the exact nature of the proposed Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045597%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234009"}},{"id":"234004","reference":"AQW 45592/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-11","answerBy":"2015-05-27","answered":"2015-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 44682/11-15, to detail each of the key stakeholders indicated.","answerText":"Key stakeholders included representatives from the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, the Children’s Law Centre, Age NI, the Age Sector Platform and the Northern Ireland Youth Forum.","answerHtml":"Key stakeholders included representatives from the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland, the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, the Children’s Law Centre, Age NI, the Age Sector Platform and the Northern Ireland Youth Forum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045592%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234004"}},{"id":"234003","reference":"AQW 45591/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-11","answerBy":"2015-05-27","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 44681/11-15, to detail the number of applications received for strand 1 and strand 2 funding streams, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The Summer Camps Pilot Programme 2015 closed for applications at 3pm on 8th May 2015. A total of 154 applications were received by the Programme Administrator, the Education Authority by that date.\n\nInformation is not held on the breakdown of applications by constituency but, from the information provided by the Education Authority, the following table shows the number of applications received by each of the 5 Education Authority regions for Strand 1 and Strand 2 funding.\n\nSouth Eastern Region\tWestern Region\tBelfast\tNorth Eastern Region\tSouthern Region\tTotal\nStrand 1 Applications\t10\t25\t45\t28\t10\t118\nStrand 2 Applications\t7\t7\t14\t2\t6\t36\nTOTAL\t17\t32\t59\t30\t16\t154","answerHtml":"The Summer Camps Pilot Programme 2015 closed for applications at 3pm on 8th May 2015. A total of 154 applications were received by the Programme Administrator, the Education Authority by that date.
Information is not held on the breakdown of applications by constituency but, from the information provided by the Education Authority, the following table shows the number of applications received by each of the 5 Education Authority regions for Strand 1 and Strand 2 funding.
| South Eastern Region | Western Region | Belfast | North Eastern Region | Southern Region | Total | |
| Strand 1 Applications | 10 | 25 | 45 | 28 | 10 | 118 |
| Strand 2 Applications | 7 | 7 | 14 | 2 | 6 | 36 |
| TOTAL | 17 | 32 | 59 | 30 | 16 | 154 |
Monies for pay uplifts for Health and Social Care staff are not ring-fenced by this Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045590%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234002","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234002"}},{"id":"233946","reference":"AQW 45549/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-08","answerBy":"2015-05-26","answered":"2015-06-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on future arrangements for recipients of the Independent Living Fund; and whether their care packages will be protected following cessation of this fund in June 2015.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my Written Assembly Statement provided to the House on 19 May 2015 (attached at Annex A). In addition, care packages for ILF recipients will continue in line with their assessed need.\n\nANNEX A\n\nWRITTEN STATEMENT TO THE ASSEMBLY BY HEALTH MINISTERSIMON HAMILTON MLA – 19 MAY 2015 – NEW ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FUTURE SUPPORT OF INDEPENDENT LIVING FUND USERS IN NORTHERN IRELAND (EMBARGOED UNTIL 11.00AM ON TUESDAY 19 MAY)\n\nThe Independent Living Fund (ILF) provides financial support through direct cash payments to disabled people throughout the United Kingdom to pay for care agency staff, or for the recipient to employ their own personal assistant.\n\nIn December 2010, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) concluded that, given the very different policy context to when the ILF was established in 1988, administering an increasing amount of social care funding outside the mainstream care and support system was no longer appropriate or sustainable.\n\nDWP announced that the ILF would be permanently closed to new users, and that funding for existing users would be maintained until the end of June 2015.\n\nIn Northern Ireland, responsibility and funding for the administration and payment of ILF users will transfer from the Department of Social Development to my Department from 1 July 2015.\n\nI am therefore pleased to advise the House of my decision to put in place new arrangements for the future support of users in Northern Ireland once the current ILF system comes to an end on 30 June 2015.\n\nI have liaised closely with my counterpart in the Scottish Government, Health Secretary Shona Robison, and have reached agreement in principle with the Scottish Government, that payments to ILF recipients in Northern Ireland will be administered through the newly-created Scottish ILF infrastructure.\n\nMy decision to implement these new arrangements is underpinned by the outcome of my Department’s public consultation on how ILF users in Northern Ireland would be best supported after the closure of the ILF. It was clear that the majority of respondees preferred Option 2: Form a successor body.\n\nI consider that these new arrangements are the most cost-effective solution to ensure that ILF recipients in Northern Ireland continue to be supported and I am very pleased that I have been able to work with the administration in Scotland to achieve this agreement. Services will continue to be provided on the same basis and in line with the comprehensive series of policy documents which set out policy and procedure under which the UK ILF has operated previously.\n\nFinally, I am confident that recipients of the ILF in Northern Ireland, their families and carers will welcome this important development; which underscores both commitments made by predecessors and my own determination that my Department should do all that it can to ensure that ILF recipients in Northern Ireland are not disadvantaged by DWP’s decision.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my Written Assembly Statement provided to the House on 19 May 2015 (attached at Annex A). In addition, care packages for ILF recipients will continue in line with their assessed need.
ANNEX A
WRITTEN STATEMENT TO THE ASSEMBLY BY HEALTH MINISTERSIMON HAMILTON MLA – 19 MAY 2015 – NEW ARRANGEMENTS FOR THE FUTURE SUPPORT OF INDEPENDENT LIVING FUND USERS IN NORTHERN IRELAND (EMBARGOED UNTIL 11.00AM ON TUESDAY 19 MAY)
The Independent Living Fund (ILF) provides financial support through direct cash payments to disabled people throughout the United Kingdom to pay for care agency staff, or for the recipient to employ their own personal assistant.
In December 2010, the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) concluded that, given the very different policy context to when the ILF was established in 1988, administering an increasing amount of social care funding outside the mainstream care and support system was no longer appropriate or sustainable.
DWP announced that the ILF would be permanently closed to new users, and that funding for existing users would be maintained until the end of June 2015.
In Northern Ireland, responsibility and funding for the administration and payment of ILF users will transfer from the Department of Social Development to my Department from 1 July 2015.
I am therefore pleased to advise the House of my decision to put in place new arrangements for the future support of users in Northern Ireland once the current ILF system comes to an end on 30 June 2015.
I have liaised closely with my counterpart in the Scottish Government, Health Secretary Shona Robison, and have reached agreement in principle with the Scottish Government, that payments to ILF recipients in Northern Ireland will be administered through the newly-created Scottish ILF infrastructure.
My decision to implement these new arrangements is underpinned by the outcome of my Department’s public consultation on how ILF users in Northern Ireland would be best supported after the closure of the ILF. It was clear that the majority of respondees preferred Option 2: Form a successor body.
I consider that these new arrangements are the most cost-effective solution to ensure that ILF recipients in Northern Ireland continue to be supported and I am very pleased that I have been able to work with the administration in Scotland to achieve this agreement. Services will continue to be provided on the same basis and in line with the comprehensive series of policy documents which set out policy and procedure under which the UK ILF has operated previously.
Finally, I am confident that recipients of the ILF in Northern Ireland, their families and carers will welcome this important development; which underscores both commitments made by predecessors and my own determination that my Department should do all that it can to ensure that ILF recipients in Northern Ireland are not disadvantaged by DWP’s decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045549%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233946","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233946"}},{"id":"233945","reference":"AQW 45548/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-08","answerBy":"2015-05-26","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for an update on the development of a new Driver and Vehicle Agency driver licensing IT system.","answerText":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is currently transforming the driver licensing service, which includes developing a new driver licensing IT system. This system will improve the customer experience, deliver service efficiencies and provide the opportunity to make online transactions available.\n\nThe Agency has completed the early discovery phase of the project and is currently progressing through the development phase. The new driver licensing system is on schedule to ‘go live’ in April 2016.","answerHtml":"The Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is currently transforming the driver licensing service, which includes developing a new driver licensing IT system. This system will improve the customer experience, deliver service efficiencies and provide the opportunity to make online transactions available.
The Agency has completed the early discovery phase of the project and is currently progressing through the development phase. The new driver licensing system is on schedule to ‘go live’ in April 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045548%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233945","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233945"}},{"id":"233944","reference":"AQW 45547/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-08","answerBy":"2015-05-26","answered":"2015-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development when the independent interim evaluation of his Department’s five year volunteering strategy will be published.","answerText":"The evaluation of the Volunteering Strategy is currently underway and it is anticipated that the final report will be published in early summer.","answerHtml":"The evaluation of the Volunteering Strategy is currently underway and it is anticipated that the final report will be published in early summer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045547%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233944","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233944"}},{"id":"233942","reference":"AQW 45546/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-08","answerBy":"2015-05-26","answered":"2015-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how much his Department contributes to the Motability Special Vehicle Fund UK; and what plans he has to maintain this contribution to ensure provision in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The amount contributed by the Department to the Department for Work and Pensions, for the Mobility Special Vehicle Fund UK in 2014/15, was £992,000.\n\nThe Specialised Vehicle Fund is administered by the independent charity Motability on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions. This fund is administered on a UK wide basis. Information on matters relating to this fund can be obtained from Motability by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Mobility, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5PX.","answerHtml":"The amount contributed by the Department to the Department for Work and Pensions, for the Mobility Special Vehicle Fund UK in 2014/15, was £992,000.
The Specialised Vehicle Fund is administered by the independent charity Motability on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions. This fund is administered on a UK wide basis. Information on matters relating to this fund can be obtained from Motability by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Mobility, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5PX.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045546%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233942"}},{"id":"233941","reference":"AQW 45545/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-08","answerBy":"2015-05-26","answered":"2015-05-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44497/11-15, how much of the funding allocated to Priority 6 of the Rural Development Fund is ring-fenced for administration and promotion; and how it will be drawn down.","answerText":"The Rural Development Programme submitted to the European Commission has detailed that up to 22% (up to a maximum of £12.4m) of project spend will be available for administration. Any administration funds not drawn down can be used to fund projects.\n\nAdministration funds will be paid to Council Administration units retrospectively following the submission of a validated claim for expended funds to my Department through the Local Action Group.","answerHtml":"The Rural Development Programme submitted to the European Commission has detailed that up to 22% (up to a maximum of £12.4m) of project spend will be available for administration. Any administration funds not drawn down can be used to fund projects.
Administration funds will be paid to Council Administration units retrospectively following the submission of a validated claim for expended funds to my Department through the Local Action Group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045545%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233941"}},{"id":"233866","reference":"AQW 45526/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-07","answerBy":"2015-05-22","answered":"2015-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 44623/11-15, when he will submit a business case to the Department of Finance and Personnel for the pay increase.","answerText":"The Department, in consultation with the Education Authority (EA), is currently preparing the composite pay remit business case to comply with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy. Once finalised, it will be submitted to DFP for its consideration in accordance with the policy.","answerHtml":"The Department, in consultation with the Education Authority (EA), is currently preparing the composite pay remit business case to comply with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy. Once finalised, it will be submitted to DFP for its consideration in accordance with the policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045526%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233866","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233866"}},{"id":"233865","reference":"AQW 45525/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-07","answerBy":"2015-05-22","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44498/11-15, to outline the nature of the European Commission observation letter on the draft programme; and whether the Commission signed off the programme in this correspondence.","answerText":"A draft service level agreement to cover the local strategy drafts and also the animation stage of the process has been issued to the Council Chief Executives Forum for comments. The Local Rural Development Strategy template will issue to the new Local Action Group’s (LAG’s) before the summer. Once these have been completed Department officials will assess them and the successful LAG’s will be issued with a contract, providing the Programme is approved by the Commission and the business case is agreed. Human Resource plans are the responsibility of the Administration units in the Councils and their respective LAG’s.","answerHtml":"A draft service level agreement to cover the local strategy drafts and also the animation stage of the process has been issued to the Council Chief Executives Forum for comments. The Local Rural Development Strategy template will issue to the new Local Action Group’s (LAG’s) before the summer. Once these have been completed Department officials will assess them and the successful LAG’s will be issued with a contract, providing the Programme is approved by the Commission and the business case is agreed. Human Resource plans are the responsibility of the Administration units in the Councils and their respective LAG’s.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045525%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233865","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233865"}},{"id":"233864","reference":"AQW 45524/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-07","answerBy":"2015-05-22","answered":"2015-05-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44518/11-15, whether the Causeway Coast and Glen Local Action Group has included oversight of the shutdown of the previous programme in the terms of reference of the Monitoring Committee.","answerText":"The final date for the eligibility of expenditure for the 2007-2013 NIRDP is 31 December 2015. The programme will not formally close until member states have completed their final clearance of accounts, which will be by 30 June 2016. The role of the Programme Monitoring Committee in the closure process will be to approve the final Annual Implementation Report in June 2016 and the ex-post programme evaluation in December 2016.","answerHtml":"The final date for the eligibility of expenditure for the 2007-2013 NIRDP is 31 December 2015. The programme will not formally close until member states have completed their final clearance of accounts, which will be by 30 June 2016. The role of the Programme Monitoring Committee in the closure process will be to approve the final Annual Implementation Report in June 2016 and the ex-post programme evaluation in December 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045524%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233864","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233864"}},{"id":"233863","reference":"AQW 45523/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-07","answerBy":"2015-05-22","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44519/11-15, to detail the process by which Priority 6 funding under the Rural Development Programme 2014-20 will be administered to local council areas.","answerText":"My Department will enter into a contract with each Local Action Group (LAG) for the delivery of their LEADER indicative funding allocation via their Local Rural Development Strategy. The Department will also enter into a service level agreement with each Council to provide each LAG with administrative and financial services.","answerHtml":"My Department will enter into a contract with each Local Action Group (LAG) for the delivery of their LEADER indicative funding allocation via their Local Rural Development Strategy. The Department will also enter into a service level agreement with each Council to provide each LAG with administrative and financial services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045523%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233863","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233863"}},{"id":"233862","reference":"AQW 45522/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-07","answerBy":"2015-05-22","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44520/11-15, to detail progress on the formation of a legal contract, service level agreements, human resource plans, local strategic plans, and preparation for local consultation, between local councils and their respective Local Action Groups.","answerText":"A draft service level agreement to cover the local strategy drafts and also the animation stage of the process has been issued to the Council Chief Executives Forum for comments. The Local Rural Development Strategy template will issue to the new Local Action Group’s (LAG’s) before the summer. Once these have been completed Department officials will assess them and the successful LAG’s will be issued with a contract, providing the Programme is approved by the Commission and the business case is agreed. Human Resource plans are the responsibility of the Administration units in the Councils and their respective LAG’s.","answerHtml":"A draft service level agreement to cover the local strategy drafts and also the animation stage of the process has been issued to the Council Chief Executives Forum for comments. The Local Rural Development Strategy template will issue to the new Local Action Group’s (LAG’s) before the summer. Once these have been completed Department officials will assess them and the successful LAG’s will be issued with a contract, providing the Programme is approved by the Commission and the business case is agreed. Human Resource plans are the responsibility of the Administration units in the Councils and their respective LAG’s.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045522%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233862","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233862"}},{"id":"233845","reference":"AQO 8177/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-07","answerBy":"2015-05-18","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, given the reliance on private ambulance services, whether he plans to increase the number of Northern Ireland Ambulance Service personnel.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton (The Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety)","text":"The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is not reliant on using private ambulance services. Private ambulance providers are used only in exceptional circumstances such as those that arose during the recent periods of industrial action on 13 March and from 27 April to 10 May. The use of private ambulance services on those occasions was under the NIAS resource escalation plan to support the Ambulance Service's resources. The private ambulance services were engaged primarily to deal with non-emergency calls in order to protect capacity for Northern Ireland Ambulance Service staff to be deployed in response to 999 calls."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Given the recent news reports of increased pressures on public service ambulances, has the Minister any plans to alleviate that and, if so, what are they?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"Issues that were highlighted by the recent industrial action have been dealt with, and I am confident that the escalation plans that are in place in the trusts are appropriate to deal with that. At the minute, there are roughly 94 vacancies in the Ambulance Service, and many of those posts have been for emergency medical technicians. Around 90 of those positions have been offered to ambulance care attendants. I hope that the filling of those vacancies could help to alleviate some of the pressures that manifested themselves during the recent industrial action but which can also be seen in intervening periods when there is pressure on existing resources. Many constituents of mine and many constituents of other Members will have reported difficulties with the slowness, sometimes, of response times in the Ambulance Service. I hope that moving to fill those vacancies might help to address some of those pressures."},{"speaker":"Mr G Robinson","text":"Will the Minister state how the number of paramedics working in the health service in Northern Ireland has changed over recent years?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"If you go back to the beginning of the current Assembly term — roughly the end of March 2011 — the number of paramedics employed in the Ambulance Service in Northern Ireland was 379. If you fast-forward to March 2015, that number has risen. Even though I pointed out to Ms Sugden the vacancies that exist, which we are trying to fill, there are currently 415 paramedics, and that includes 80 rapid-response vehicle paramedics. In that four-year period between 2011 and 2015, there has been a 9·4% increase in the number of paramedics, and that has to be warmly welcomed. I appreciate that, even with that additional complement, there are still pressures on the service and that there can still be difficulties, but it is testimony to the work of my predecessors in post that, even at a time when resources have been under severe pressure, as we all know, investments have been made in the front line. The Ambulance Service is a front-line service, and our paramedics and our care attendants are incredibly important to the overall service, so a near 10% increase in the number of Northern Ireland Ambulance Service paramedics over that period of time is testimony to the commitment that we have made to the front line in that period."},{"speaker":"Mr Dallat","text":"I preface my question by paying tribute to the Ambulance Service, certainly in the northern and western areas. Does the Minister agree with me that, when someone makes that 999 call, they expect a response?"},{"speaker":"","text":"Given that there are 94 vacancies, would the Minister agree that that in itself is an emergency?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"I agree. I join with Mr Dallat in paying tribute to the work that staff in the Ambulance Service do on behalf of us all; it was remiss of me not to do so earlier. Our citizens should expect the highest standard of service from them as from all in the health and social care sector. There are issues with response times that I have been familiarising myself with, as you can imagine, over the last number of days. Unfortunately, sometimes some targets, particularly the eight-minute response time for life-threatening calls, or category A calls as they are called, are not being met. That is in spite of the investment that I outlined to Mr Robinson to increase the number of paramedics. We all appreciate the range of pressures. Going back to the original question asked by Ms Sugden, we are, thankfully, able to use private and charitable providers, such as St John Ambulance, the Order of Malta and the Red Cross, to alleviate some of the pressure so that Ambulance Service staff can deal with life-threatening calls and emergency situations, so that when somebody, unfortunately, has to make the call, they are getting responded to appropriately and in the appropriate time. We know that, when they do get responded to, they get the best of care."},{"speaker":"Mr Allister","text":"In terms of the adequacy of ambulance provision, would the Minister undertake to look again at the provision of air ambulance services in light of the events on Saturday at the North West 200, where a spectator had to be airlifted to hospital? Can he comment on the fact that, although the severe trauma unit is at the Royal Victoria Hospital, there is no facility to land a helicopter at that hospital, adding to the delay in transporting severely injured personnel?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"The Member is right to raise the incident at the weekend. It again highlights the issue of air ambulance provision in Northern Ireland. We were all shocked by the severity of the incident at the North West 200. Pictures in the press today showed how serious it was. We pay tribute to the staff who responded, and obviously our thoughts are with those still in hospital who are being cared for. We wish them a speedy recovery. The Health and Social Care Board submitted a report to my Department on the feasibility and appropriateness of establishing a dedicated helicopter emergency medical service in Northern Ireland. I am awaiting the report of the emergency aeromedical support services group that was established by the Republic of Ireland's Department of Health to consider the provision of a dedicated service in that jurisdiction. I imagine that will include recommendations in relation to the potential for the expansion of the geographical reach of that service to include the whole of the island. When the report is received, I will consider those recommendations in conjunction with the Health and Social Care Board study before making a final decision on the matter. Mr Allister is also right to point out one of the practical difficulties in the provision of air ambulances. I do not think anybody would dispute that, where we had appropriate resources, it would be a good thing to do on our own or with our neighbours to the south. However, that would require investment in not just a helicopter but staff, maintenance, upkeep and infrastructure changes to ensure there is an appropriate place to land a helicopter. That is one reason why, at this stage, even if we had an air ambulance, it would not necessarily be working to its optimum performance. There are a lot of points to consider. It is on the agenda, and the events of the weekend highlight it all the more."},{"speaker":"Mr Hussey","text":"Like Mr Dallat, I pay tribute to the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. I had the misfortune of having to travel recently in an ambulance with my late mother to the South West Acute Hospital. The paramedics who dealt with my mother were excellent. Does the Minister know how much compulsory overtime ambulance drivers and paramedics have to undertake because of the 98 paramedic vacancies, or whatever number it is?"},{"speaker":"Mr Hamilton","text":"I don't is the simple answer, but I am happy to provide that information to the Member in due course. It is worth pointing out that Ms Sugden's question was a useful one in that it highlighted the provision being provided by others in support of the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service. That support is primarily for non-emergency situations where patients are moved from hospital back to their home or from their home to hospital for appointments. It is worth noting the work being done on our behalf by other providers, and I hope that there is an acceptance around the House that it is a good thing that we are able to call upon that resource as appropriate. I do not have the specifics on the amount of overtime being paid, but I am happy to provide that information to the Member in due course."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208177%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233845","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-05-18&docID=234653#AQO%208177/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233845"}},{"id":"233597","reference":"AQW 45457/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-06","answerBy":"2015-05-21","answered":"2015-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether any Early Years funded groups currently offer funded pre-school places within the Pre-School Education Programme; and if so, to detail how many groups.","answerText":"Funding provided under the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) is considered to be sufficient to enable participating groups to be viable.\n\nIn the 2014/15 academic year 1615 funded pre-school places within the Programme are provided in 81 groups in which some salaries are currently supported by the Early Years Fund. These places will continue to be funded under PSEP in the same way as all other settings in the Programme.","answerHtml":"Funding provided under the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) is considered to be sufficient to enable participating groups to be viable.
In the 2014/15 academic year 1615 funded pre-school places within the Programme are provided in 81 groups in which some salaries are currently supported by the Early Years Fund. These places will continue to be funded under PSEP in the same way as all other settings in the Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045457%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233597","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233597"}},{"id":"233596","reference":"AQW 45456/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-06","answerBy":"2015-05-21","answered":"2015-06-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many staff in each Health and Social Care Trust have contacted his Department regarding their pay and how it is impacting their standard of living.","answerText":"No records are kept on the number of staff in each Health and Social Care Trust who have contacted this Department regarding their pay and how it is impacting on their standard of living. It is not, therefore, possible to provide the information requested.","answerHtml":"No records are kept on the number of staff in each Health and Social Care Trust who have contacted this Department regarding their pay and how it is impacting on their standard of living. It is not, therefore, possible to provide the information requested.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045456%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233596","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233596"}},{"id":"233595","reference":"AQW 45455/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-06","answerBy":"2015-05-21","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of new medical posts within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, which have been based in the Causeway Hospital, in the last twelve months.","answerText":"Three new Consultant posts (2.5 whole-time equivalent) in General Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Cardiology have been created in the last twelve months. Other appointments were made to fill vacancies.","answerHtml":"Three new Consultant posts (2.5 whole-time equivalent) in General Surgery, Obstetrics & Gynaecology and Cardiology have been created in the last twelve months. Other appointments were made to fill vacancies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045455%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233595","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233595"}},{"id":"233594","reference":"AQW 45454/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-06","answerBy":"2015-05-21","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current level of unpaid hours worked by Health and Social Care staff, as unpaid overtime; and what consideration has been given to quantifying and providing payment for this work.","answerText":"The current level of unpaid hours worked by Health and Social Care staff, as unpaid overtime, is not collated centrally by individual HSC Employers and is therefore unknown.\n\nPart 2 Section 3 of the Agenda for Change Terms and Conditions of Service provides for additional hours worked to be accumulated as time off in lieu (TOIL) and converted to payment if TOIL is not able to be taken within a reasonable timeframe, normally 3 months.\n\nA copy of the Handbook is available at:\n\nhttp://www.nhsemployers.org/~/media/Employers/Documents/Pay%20and%20reward/AfC_tc_of_service_handbook_fb.pdf","answerHtml":"The current level of unpaid hours worked by Health and Social Care staff, as unpaid overtime, is not collated centrally by individual HSC Employers and is therefore unknown.
Part 2 Section 3 of the Agenda for Change Terms and Conditions of Service provides for additional hours worked to be accumulated as time off in lieu (TOIL) and converted to payment if TOIL is not able to be taken within a reasonable timeframe, normally 3 months.
A copy of the Handbook is available at:
http://www.nhsemployers.org/~/media/Employers/Documents/Pay%20and%20reward/AfC_tc_of_service_handbook_fb.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045454%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233594"}},{"id":"233571","reference":"AQW 45442/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-06","answerBy":"2015-05-21","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning pursuant to AQW 45015/11-15, to detail (i) what steps he intends to take to improve engagement with people in the target groups and (ii) a time-line for the completion of this stage.","answerText":"Improving voluntary engagement with the people in the target groups is critical to the success of ‘Enabling Success’. The strategy proposes to do this through a number of projects.\n\nThe first project, the development of an outcomes framework (Project A), has already commenced with the establishment of an expert Design Team. The Design Team aims to develop an end-user focused outcomes framework using a co-design approach to inform and guide the competitive pilot testing process (Project B) going forward.\n\nThe second project is to undertake an innovative regime of competitive pilot testing (Project B) to identify, develop and test a range of approaches to improve outcomes for the target groups. Successful approaches, such as more effective ways to improve engagement with the target groups, will then be developed and evaluated further and potentially upscaled.\n\nThis is a major project which will be run in three phases over a four year project lifecycle. The project will be initiated at the earliest possible opportunity, subject to my Department securing the necessary resources to take the work forward.\n\nIn addition, the Department for Social Development is currently taking forward a geographically focused pilot in 2015/16 (Project C). This pilot is aimed at early engagement with one of the key target groups and improving employment outcomes through early intervention.","answerHtml":"Improving voluntary engagement with the people in the target groups is critical to the success of ‘Enabling Success’. The strategy proposes to do this through a number of projects.
The first project, the development of an outcomes framework (Project A), has already commenced with the establishment of an expert Design Team. The Design Team aims to develop an end-user focused outcomes framework using a co-design approach to inform and guide the competitive pilot testing process (Project B) going forward.
The second project is to undertake an innovative regime of competitive pilot testing (Project B) to identify, develop and test a range of approaches to improve outcomes for the target groups. Successful approaches, such as more effective ways to improve engagement with the target groups, will then be developed and evaluated further and potentially upscaled.
This is a major project which will be run in three phases over a four year project lifecycle. The project will be initiated at the earliest possible opportunity, subject to my Department securing the necessary resources to take the work forward.
In addition, the Department for Social Development is currently taking forward a geographically focused pilot in 2015/16 (Project C). This pilot is aimed at early engagement with one of the key target groups and improving employment outcomes through early intervention.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045442%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233571"}},{"id":"233558","reference":"AQW 45441/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-05","answerBy":"2015-05-20","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to outline the directive on hedgerow cutting which he issued to TransportNI and which is due to take effect from 13 July 2015.","answerText":"I am not aware of any directive that has been issued in respect of hedgerow cutting.","answerHtml":"I am not aware of any directive that has been issued in respect of hedgerow cutting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045441%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233558","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233558"}},{"id":"233543","reference":"AQW 45440/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-05","answerBy":"2015-05-20","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether she has any plans to develop and bring forward a specific programme to address Rural Youth Development.","answerText":"As DARD does not have statutory powers for youth development I have no specific plans for a Rural Youth Development programme. However, I have committed to continue to support the Rural Youth Entrepreneurship programme in 2015/16 and look at how this scheme and other similar initiatives could be developed under the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation programme moving forward. I have also just launched the Rural Micro Capital Grant Programme for which I understand there has been significant interest from projects that will benefit youth. In addition, Priority six of the new Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 will provide opportunities to support rural youth when it opens for applications later this year and there will be a Thematic Working Group for Youth established that will draw membership from across the recently formed Local Action Groups (LAGs).","answerHtml":"As DARD does not have statutory powers for youth development I have no specific plans for a Rural Youth Development programme. However, I have committed to continue to support the Rural Youth Entrepreneurship programme in 2015/16 and look at how this scheme and other similar initiatives could be developed under the Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation programme moving forward. I have also just launched the Rural Micro Capital Grant Programme for which I understand there has been significant interest from projects that will benefit youth. In addition, Priority six of the new Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 will provide opportunities to support rural youth when it opens for applications later this year and there will be a Thematic Working Group for Youth established that will draw membership from across the recently formed Local Action Groups (LAGs).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045440%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233543","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233543"}},{"id":"233534","reference":"AQW 45434/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-05","answerBy":"2015-05-20","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of Staff Nurses across Health and Social Care Trusts who received a 1 per cent pay uplift during 2014/15; and whether this uplift is permanent.","answerText":"Information on the number of Staff Nurses across Health and Social Care Trusts who received a 1% uplift during 2014/15 and whether this uplift is permanent is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.\n\nHowever, most qualified nursing staff would have received at least a 1% increase in pay, either due to incremental progression (if eligible) or due to a 1% non-consolidated award. The only nursing staff not eligible for at least a 1% increase would be new staff or those not meeting performance requirements.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of Staff Nurses across Health and Social Care Trusts who received a 1% uplift during 2014/15 and whether this uplift is permanent is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.
However, most qualified nursing staff would have received at least a 1% increase in pay, either due to incremental progression (if eligible) or due to a 1% non-consolidated award. The only nursing staff not eligible for at least a 1% increase would be new staff or those not meeting performance requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045434%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233534","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233534"}},{"id":"233533","reference":"AQW 45433/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-05","answerBy":"2015-05-20","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how changes to the Meals on Wheels Service is being rural proofed in order to protect vulnerable rurally isolated clients.","answerText":"Of the two Trusts who are currently proposing to make changes to their community meals service, the Western HSC Trust has consulted with clients and/or their carers who receive the service and also with service providers. Alongside this, a comprehensive Equality Screening will be undertaken, which will include an assessment of whether the proposed changes will impact differently or unfairly on different groups of individuals, including those who live within the rural parts of the Trust’s geographical area.\n\nThe South Eastern HSC Trust has confirmed that it consulted on its proposals with people currently in receipt of its Community Meals service, and also sought views from potential future users through targeted focus groups. The Trust has also advised that the procurement of Community Meals was subject to Equality Screening in January 2013. A further rescreening exercise was undertaken in January 2015, the outcome of which was that the proposal will be subject to on-going screening.","answerHtml":"Of the two Trusts who are currently proposing to make changes to their community meals service, the Western HSC Trust has consulted with clients and/or their carers who receive the service and also with service providers. Alongside this, a comprehensive Equality Screening will be undertaken, which will include an assessment of whether the proposed changes will impact differently or unfairly on different groups of individuals, including those who live within the rural parts of the Trust’s geographical area.
The South Eastern HSC Trust has confirmed that it consulted on its proposals with people currently in receipt of its Community Meals service, and also sought views from potential future users through targeted focus groups. The Trust has also advised that the procurement of Community Meals was subject to Equality Screening in January 2013. A further rescreening exercise was undertaken in January 2015, the outcome of which was that the proposal will be subject to on-going screening.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045433%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233533","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233533"}},{"id":"233532","reference":"AQW 45432/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-05","answerBy":"2015-05-20","answered":"2015-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the Meals on Wheels service across Health and Social Care Trusts.","answerText":"The Western HSC Trust has advised me that it is currently in the process of taking forward new contracting arrangements for its community meals service. The Trust has held a number of consultation sessions with clients who receive the service and with service providers. Feedback from these sessions will help to inform the new contracting arrangements.\n\nThe South Eastern HSC Trust has advised that it is currently working to implement a new contract for its community meals service and to commence the provision of a frozen meals service.\n\nThe remaining three Trusts have advised that they continue to provide a community meals service for those clients who meet the eligibility criteria. All HSC Trusts have a responsibility, of course, to ensure that limited resources are effectively targeted to those individuals who are most in need.","answerHtml":"The Western HSC Trust has advised me that it is currently in the process of taking forward new contracting arrangements for its community meals service. The Trust has held a number of consultation sessions with clients who receive the service and with service providers. Feedback from these sessions will help to inform the new contracting arrangements.
The South Eastern HSC Trust has advised that it is currently working to implement a new contract for its community meals service and to commence the provision of a frozen meals service.
The remaining three Trusts have advised that they continue to provide a community meals service for those clients who meet the eligibility criteria. All HSC Trusts have a responsibility, of course, to ensure that limited resources are effectively targeted to those individuals who are most in need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045432%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233532","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233532"}},{"id":"233367","reference":"AQW 45347/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-01","answerBy":"2015-05-19","answered":"2015-05-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44519/11-15, which arm’s-length bodies will distribute funding to projects within council areas; and to detail the role of these bodies.","answerText":"At this stage not all the delivery mechanisms have been decided for the Programme, but Local Action Group’s (LAG’s) formed under the LEADER methodology will distribute their LEADER indicative funding allocation on the ground via their Local Rural Development Strategy, through calls for applications that they will competitively assess.","answerHtml":"At this stage not all the delivery mechanisms have been decided for the Programme, but Local Action Group’s (LAG’s) formed under the LEADER methodology will distribute their LEADER indicative funding allocation on the ground via their Local Rural Development Strategy, through calls for applications that they will competitively assess.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045347%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233367"}},{"id":"233366","reference":"AQW 45346/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-01","answerBy":"2015-05-19","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44519/11-15, what proportion of Rural Development Programme funding has been ring-fenced; and where it has been allocated.","answerText":"Funding within the Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 is allocated on the basis of need and in line with expected demand. In the draft Programme document, the budget has been allocated as follows: £31.8m for a range of actions supporting knowledge transfer and information exchange, £228.8m for capital investment, including on farms, £16.7m for forestry measures, £158.8m for environmental measures, £65m for an Areas of Natural Constraint scheme, £4.9m for co-operation actions, £80m for supporting the economic development of our rural areas and £37.3m for technical assistance. The final allocations will depend on EU approval of the programme and any approved modifications during the 2014 – 20 programming period and on DFP approval of the necessary business cases.","answerHtml":"Funding within the Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 is allocated on the basis of need and in line with expected demand. In the draft Programme document, the budget has been allocated as follows: £31.8m for a range of actions supporting knowledge transfer and information exchange, £228.8m for capital investment, including on farms, £16.7m for forestry measures, £158.8m for environmental measures, £65m for an Areas of Natural Constraint scheme, £4.9m for co-operation actions, £80m for supporting the economic development of our rural areas and £37.3m for technical assistance. The final allocations will depend on EU approval of the programme and any approved modifications during the 2014 – 20 programming period and on DFP approval of the necessary business cases.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045346%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233366"}},{"id":"233361","reference":"AQW 45341/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-01","answerBy":"2015-05-19","answered":"2015-05-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 43733/11-15, to detail all suppliers of private ambulances, broken down by Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The table below indicates the independent ambulance services (private and voluntary) used by each Health and Social Care Trust. The British Red Cross, Order of Malta and St John Ambulance Service are voluntary ambulance services.\n\nHSC Trust\tIndependent ambulance service providers\nBelfast\tAeromedicsPatient Discharge ServiceProParamedics St John Ambulance Service\nNorthern\tBritish Red Cross\nNorth West Community AmbulanceProParamedics\nSt John Ambulance Service\nSouth Eastern\tBritish Red CrossMTS\nSouthern\tBritish Red Cross Pro Paramedics\nSt John Ambulance Service\nWestern\tBritish Red Cross\nConcierge Practitioners NI\nOrder of Malta\nProParamedics\nSt John Ambulance Service\nNorthern Ireland Ambulance Service\tBritish Red CrossConcierge Practitioners NI\nOrder of MaltaProParamedics\nSt John Ambulance Service\n\nSource: HSC Trusts","answerHtml":"The table below indicates the independent ambulance services (private and voluntary) used by each Health and Social Care Trust. The British Red Cross, Order of Malta and St John Ambulance Service are voluntary ambulance services.
| HSC Trust | Independent ambulance service providers |
| Belfast | AeromedicsPatient Discharge ServiceProParamedics St John Ambulance Service |
| Northern | British Red Cross North West Community AmbulanceProParamedics St John Ambulance Service |
| South Eastern | British Red CrossMTS |
| Southern | British Red Cross Pro Paramedics St John Ambulance Service |
| Western | British Red Cross Concierge Practitioners NI Order of Malta ProParamedics St John Ambulance Service |
| Northern Ireland Ambulance Service | British Red CrossConcierge Practitioners NI Order of MaltaProParamedics St John Ambulance Service |
Source: HSC Trusts
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045341%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233361"}},{"id":"233360","reference":"AQW 45340/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-01","answerBy":"2015-05-19","answered":"2015-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the current provision for incremental pay progression for Health and Social Care staff; and whether this reflects the Agenda for Change framework.","answerText":"Incremental pay progression for all pay points, within each Agenda for Change pay band, is conditional upon individuals demonstrating that they have the requisite knowledge and skills/competencies for their role and that they have demonstrated the required level of performance and delivery during the review period. Provided the appropriate level of performance and delivery has been achieved during the review period, individuals will progress from pay point to pay point on an annual basis.\n\nUnder the 2014/15 Agenda for Change Pay Award all eligible staff received incremental pay.\n\nThis reflects the Agenda for Change Terms and Conditions of Service a copy of which is available at:\n\nhttp://www.nhsemployers.org/~/media/Employers/Documents/Pay%20and%20reward/AfC_tc_of_service_handbook_fb.pdf","answerHtml":"Incremental pay progression for all pay points, within each Agenda for Change pay band, is conditional upon individuals demonstrating that they have the requisite knowledge and skills/competencies for their role and that they have demonstrated the required level of performance and delivery during the review period. Provided the appropriate level of performance and delivery has been achieved during the review period, individuals will progress from pay point to pay point on an annual basis.
Under the 2014/15 Agenda for Change Pay Award all eligible staff received incremental pay.
This reflects the Agenda for Change Terms and Conditions of Service a copy of which is available at:
http://www.nhsemployers.org/~/media/Employers/Documents/Pay%20and%20reward/AfC_tc_of_service_handbook_fb.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045340%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233360"}},{"id":"233359","reference":"AQW 45339/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-05-01","answerBy":"2015-05-19","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether the Northern Ireland public pay policy mandates the application of a living wage, similar to that of Scotland and Wales.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Pay Remit Approval Process and Guidance details public sector pay growth limits and how these are applied in Northern Ireland. As per HM Treasury’s overarching public sector pay guidance, it does not define specific pay levels, and as such, does not reference the living wage.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Pay Remit Approval Process and Guidance details public sector pay growth limits and how these are applied in Northern Ireland. As per HM Treasury’s overarching public sector pay guidance, it does not define specific pay levels, and as such, does not reference the living wage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045339%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233359"}},{"id":"233249","reference":"AQW 45314/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-18","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether current levels of pay for Health and Social Care staff reflect the objectives of the Agenda for Change framework.","answerText":"Discussions with HSC Trade Unions regarding an affordable 2015/16 HSC Pay Award are underway. The timeframe for an announcement is not yet determined..\n\nInformation on the number of health and social care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.\n\nThe 2014/15 Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Award sought to reward all staff with at least a 1% increase and reflects the provisions set out in the AfC Terms and\n\nConditions of Service Handbook which are based on the need to ensure a fair system of pay for NHS employees which supports modernised working practices.","answerHtml":"Discussions with HSC Trade Unions regarding an affordable 2015/16 HSC Pay Award are underway. The timeframe for an announcement is not yet determined..
Information on the number of health and social care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.
The 2014/15 Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Award sought to reward all staff with at least a 1% increase and reflects the provisions set out in the AfC Terms and
Conditions of Service Handbook which are based on the need to ensure a fair system of pay for NHS employees which supports modernised working practices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045314%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233249","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233249"}},{"id":"233247","reference":"AQW 45313/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-18","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of Health and Social Care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band.","answerText":"Discussions with HSC Trade Unions regarding an affordable 2015/16 HSC Pay Award are underway. The timeframe for an announcement is not yet determined..\n\nInformation on the number of health and social care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.\n\nThe 2014/15 Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Award sought to reward all staff with at least a 1% increase and reflects the provisions set out in the AfC Terms and\n\nConditions of Service Handbook which are based on the need to ensure a fair system of pay for NHS employees which supports modernised working practices.","answerHtml":"Discussions with HSC Trade Unions regarding an affordable 2015/16 HSC Pay Award are underway. The timeframe for an announcement is not yet determined..
Information on the number of health and social care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.
The 2014/15 Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Award sought to reward all staff with at least a 1% increase and reflects the provisions set out in the AfC Terms and
Conditions of Service Handbook which are based on the need to ensure a fair system of pay for NHS employees which supports modernised working practices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045313%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233247","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233247"}},{"id":"233245","reference":"AQW 45312/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-18","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he will make the 2015/16 pay announcement for Health and Social Care staff.","answerText":"Discussions with HSC Trade Unions regarding an affordable 2015/16 HSC Pay Award are underway. The timeframe for an announcement is not yet determined..\n\nInformation on the number of health and social care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.\n\nThe 2014/15 Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Award sought to reward all staff with at least a 1% increase and reflects the provisions set out in the AfC Terms and\n\nConditions of Service Handbook which are based on the need to ensure a fair system of pay for NHS employees which supports modernised working practices.","answerHtml":"Discussions with HSC Trade Unions regarding an affordable 2015/16 HSC Pay Award are underway. The timeframe for an announcement is not yet determined..
Information on the number of health and social care staff who have not received a 1 per cent pay uplift since April 2014, broken down by (i) Trust; (ii) profession; and (iii) pay band is not readily available and can only be obtained at a disproportionate cost.
The 2014/15 Agenda for Change (AfC) Pay Award sought to reward all staff with at least a 1% increase and reflects the provisions set out in the AfC Terms and
Conditions of Service Handbook which are based on the need to ensure a fair system of pay for NHS employees which supports modernised working practices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045312%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233245","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233245"}},{"id":"233242","reference":"AQW 45311/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-18","answered":"2015-06-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the savings from the rejection of the NHS Pay Review Body’s 1 per cent pay uplift recommendation for 2014/2015; and for a breakdown of how this money had been invested in Health and Social Care.","answerText":"The decision not to implement the NHS Pay Review Body’s recommendation for 2014/15 had the effect of reducing the pressures on the HSC pay bill by an estimated £12 million and hence contributed to the reduction in the Department's overall forecast funding gap in 2014/15.","answerHtml":"The decision not to implement the NHS Pay Review Body’s recommendation for 2014/15 had the effect of reducing the pressures on the HSC pay bill by an estimated £12 million and hence contributed to the reduction in the Department's overall forecast funding gap in 2014/15.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045311%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233242"}},{"id":"233239","reference":"AQW 45310/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-18","answered":"2015-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 44621/11-15 and AQW 44622/11-15, to detail the process from the point of agreement to staff receiving their reward; and for his assessment of the efficiency of this process.","answerText":"The pay remit approval process is how the Executive manages and monitors its Public Sector Pay Policy. The Minister for Finance and Personnel is responsible for the approval of all pay remit business cases.\n\nOnce the necessary approval is secured, the Education Authority (EA) will undertake a two stage process to ensure eligible staff receive their pay award. The first requires the processing of changes in basic pay, arising from any associated uplift (i.e. pay award and/or incremental progression for eligible staff) before the subsequent determination and payment of any associated pay arrears. This can take up to four months to complete, from the date of securing the necessary approval.\n\nAll staff will receive what is due to them, backdated to January 2015. The delay in receiving payment is due to the need to complete a pay remit business case and secure the necessary approval, in line with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy.\n\nFollowing the EA’s establishment on 1 April 2015, it is anticipated that the pay remit process will become more streamlined, leading to quicker approvals.\n\nAs with any process, there is always room for improvement; my officials continue to liaise with DFP to ensure that all pay remit business cases are dealt with as efficiently as possible.","answerHtml":"The pay remit approval process is how the Executive manages and monitors its Public Sector Pay Policy. The Minister for Finance and Personnel is responsible for the approval of all pay remit business cases.
Once the necessary approval is secured, the Education Authority (EA) will undertake a two stage process to ensure eligible staff receive their pay award. The first requires the processing of changes in basic pay, arising from any associated uplift (i.e. pay award and/or incremental progression for eligible staff) before the subsequent determination and payment of any associated pay arrears. This can take up to four months to complete, from the date of securing the necessary approval.
All staff will receive what is due to them, backdated to January 2015. The delay in receiving payment is due to the need to complete a pay remit business case and secure the necessary approval, in line with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy.
Following the EA’s establishment on 1 April 2015, it is anticipated that the pay remit process will become more streamlined, leading to quicker approvals.
As with any process, there is always room for improvement; my officials continue to liaise with DFP to ensure that all pay remit business cases are dealt with as efficiently as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045310%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233239"}},{"id":"233220","reference":"AQO 8158/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment when the current funding for the Northern Ireland Environment Agency Listed Building Grant Scheme was fully committed.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208158%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233220"}},{"id":"234741","reference":"AQO 8158/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-30","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":"2015-05-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment when the current funding for the Northern Ireland Environment Agency Listed Building Grant Scheme was fully committed.","answerText":"The Listed Building Grant Scheme was fully committed early in the 2014-15 financial year. In regard to 2015-16, I will shortly be considering the allocation of £0.5 million, provided through the Carrier Bag Levy in respect of existing Listed Building Grant applications and, in doing so, will prioritise those applications where the focus is on supporting restoration and maintenance projects in buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including churches.","answerHtml":"The Listed Building Grant Scheme was fully committed early in the 2014-15 financial year. In regard to 2015-16, I will shortly be considering the allocation of £0.5 million, provided through the Carrier Bag Levy in respect of existing Listed Building Grant applications and, in doing so, will prioritise those applications where the focus is on supporting restoration and maintenance projects in buildings that provide facilities for community access and use, including churches.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208158%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=234741","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=234741"}},{"id":"233126","reference":"AQW 45275/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-29","answerBy":"2015-05-15","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 44500/11-15, why each Rural Community Transport Partnership is required to submit their business financial accounts when departmental funding is allocated for service provision only.","answerText":"In order to comply with Treasury’s guidance on Managing Public Money, the requirement to submit audited financial accounts each year is contained within my Department’s letter of offer to RCTP’s.\n\nMy Department, as the primary grant funder for RCTP’s is obliged to ensure all grants provided are spent in line with all legal and licensing conditions, and with the objectives of the Rural Transport Fund.","answerHtml":"In order to comply with Treasury’s guidance on Managing Public Money, the requirement to submit audited financial accounts each year is contained within my Department’s letter of offer to RCTP’s.
My Department, as the primary grant funder for RCTP’s is obliged to ensure all grants provided are spent in line with all legal and licensing conditions, and with the objectives of the Rural Transport Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045275%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233126","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233126"}},{"id":"233125","reference":"AQW 45274/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-29","answerBy":"2015-05-15","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44518/11-15, to detail the changes which have been made to the membership and terms of reference of the 2007-13 Monitoring Committee.","answerText":"Membership of the Rural Development Programme Monitoring Committee is specified in EU Regulation and must include public authorities, economic and social partners, environmental partners, non-governmental organisations, and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, gender equality and non-discrimination.\n\nA Programme Monitoring Committee was established under these principles in 2007 for the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme. As the regulatory requirements have now changed, membership of the Programme Monitoring Committee was reviewed to ensure it was fit for purpose.\n\nTo ensure continuity between Programmes, the organisations which are represented on the current Monitoring Committee were invited to continue their role. All the current members opted to continue and additional representation was invited from a number of other organisations, including members of the RDP Stakeholder Consultation Group. Five new organisations accepted the invitation; these were the Agri-Food Strategy Board, Invest NI, NI Tourist Board, NI Environment Agency and the Gaelic Athletic Association.\n\nThe terms of reference of the Programme Monitoring Committee have been revised to reflect the requirements of Article 78 of Regulation (EU) No. 1698/2006, Article 49 of Regulation (EU) No. 1303/2013 and Article 74 of Regulation (EU) No. 1305/2013.","answerHtml":"Membership of the Rural Development Programme Monitoring Committee is specified in EU Regulation and must include public authorities, economic and social partners, environmental partners, non-governmental organisations, and bodies responsible for promoting social inclusion, gender equality and non-discrimination.
A Programme Monitoring Committee was established under these principles in 2007 for the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme. As the regulatory requirements have now changed, membership of the Programme Monitoring Committee was reviewed to ensure it was fit for purpose.
To ensure continuity between Programmes, the organisations which are represented on the current Monitoring Committee were invited to continue their role. All the current members opted to continue and additional representation was invited from a number of other organisations, including members of the RDP Stakeholder Consultation Group. Five new organisations accepted the invitation; these were the Agri-Food Strategy Board, Invest NI, NI Tourist Board, NI Environment Agency and the Gaelic Athletic Association.
The terms of reference of the Programme Monitoring Committee have been revised to reflect the requirements of Article 78 of Regulation (EU) No. 1698/2006, Article 49 of Regulation (EU) No. 1303/2013 and Article 74 of Regulation (EU) No. 1305/2013.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045274%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233125"}},{"id":"233124","reference":"AQW 45273/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-29","answerBy":"2015-05-15","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 44517/11-15, to detail the expected timeframe for approved expenditure by the European Commission and consequent receipt of EU Funding by her Department.","answerText":"The draft Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 was submitted to the European Commission for approval on 14 October 2014, with the Commission’s formal comments being received on 31 March 2015. Approval of the Programme is expected by September 2015 at the latest, following which funds may be drawn down from the European Commission on receipt of approved quarterly declarations of expenditure. The timing of receipt of EU expenditure will depend on a number of factors such as DFP’s approval of the necessary business cases, the opening of schemes, the demand and uptake for the schemes, when projects complete and claim the grant and when this expenditure is claimed from the Commission by my Department.","answerHtml":"The draft Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 was submitted to the European Commission for approval on 14 October 2014, with the Commission’s formal comments being received on 31 March 2015. Approval of the Programme is expected by September 2015 at the latest, following which funds may be drawn down from the European Commission on receipt of approved quarterly declarations of expenditure. The timing of receipt of EU expenditure will depend on a number of factors such as DFP’s approval of the necessary business cases, the opening of schemes, the demand and uptake for the schemes, when projects complete and claim the grant and when this expenditure is claimed from the Commission by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045273%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233124","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233124"}},{"id":"233123","reference":"AQW 45272/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-29","answerBy":"2015-05-15","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 44621/11-15 and AQW 44622/11-15, whether the pay rise has been formally agreed; and if so, whether it will be paid before June 2015.","answerText":"The approval process is detailed within the Department of Finance and Personnel’s Pay Remit Approval Process and Guidance (2014-15), see attached link for ease of reference.\n\nhttp://www.dfpni.gov.uk/index/finance/afmd/afmd-public-bodies/afmd-public_bodies_to_include_on-board_guide_and_public_bodies_guide/fddfp0814.pdf\n\nEducation Authority (EA) staff are employed under terms and conditions set by the National Joint Council (NJC), which has agreed a 2.2% revalorisation pay increase applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016. EA staff are therefore contractually entitled to this revalorisation awarded by the NJC. However, Executive Pay Policy prevents the payment of any pay award prior to securing the necessary approvals.\n\nOnce the necessary approvals are secured for the 2014-16 pay remit business case, the implementation of the 2.2% pay award will be processed by the EA, who advised that this could take up to 4 months. This is because there are 2 stages to processing the pay award. EA will first place staff on the correct pay scale points and then arrears will be processed and paid. Eligible staff will receive what is due to them, back dated to January 2015. The delay is due to having to complete a pay remit business case and secure the necessary approvals before any payments can be made, in keeping with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy.","answerHtml":"The approval process is detailed within the Department of Finance and Personnel’s Pay Remit Approval Process and Guidance (2014-15), see attached link for ease of reference.
http://www.dfpni.gov.uk/index/finance/afmd/afmd-public-bodies/afmd-public_bodies_to_include_on-board_guide_and_public_bodies_guide/fddfp0814.pdf
Education Authority (EA) staff are employed under terms and conditions set by the National Joint Council (NJC), which has agreed a 2.2% revalorisation pay increase applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016. EA staff are therefore contractually entitled to this revalorisation awarded by the NJC. However, Executive Pay Policy prevents the payment of any pay award prior to securing the necessary approvals.
Once the necessary approvals are secured for the 2014-16 pay remit business case, the implementation of the 2.2% pay award will be processed by the EA, who advised that this could take up to 4 months. This is because there are 2 stages to processing the pay award. EA will first place staff on the correct pay scale points and then arrears will be processed and paid. Eligible staff will receive what is due to them, back dated to January 2015. The delay is due to having to complete a pay remit business case and secure the necessary approvals before any payments can be made, in keeping with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045272%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233123","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233123"}},{"id":"233122","reference":"AQW 45271/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-29","answerBy":"2015-05-15","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 44622/11-15, to detail the nature of the pending necessary approvals within the Executive's Public Sector Pay Policy.","answerText":"The approval process is detailed within the Department of Finance and Personnel’s Pay Remit Approval Process and Guidance (2014-15), see attached link for ease of reference.\n\nhttp://www.dfpni.gov.uk/index/finance/afmd/afmd-public-bodies/afmd-public_bodies_to_include_on-board_guide_and_public_bodies_guide/fddfp0814.pdf\n\nEducation Authority (EA) staff are employed under terms and conditions set by the National Joint Council (NJC), which has agreed a 2.2% revalorisation pay increase applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016. EA staff are therefore contractually entitled to this revalorisation awarded by the NJC. However, Executive Pay Policy prevents the payment of any pay award prior to securing the necessary approvals.\n\nOnce the necessary approvals are secured for the 2014-16 pay remit business case, the implementation of the 2.2% pay award will be processed by the EA, who advised that this could take up to 4 months. This is because there are 2 stages to processing the pay award. EA will first place staff on the correct pay scale points and then arrears will be processed and paid. Eligible staff will receive what is due to them, back dated to January 2015. The delay is due to having to complete a pay remit business case and secure the necessary approvals before any payments can be made, in keeping with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy.","answerHtml":"The approval process is detailed within the Department of Finance and Personnel’s Pay Remit Approval Process and Guidance (2014-15), see attached link for ease of reference.
http://www.dfpni.gov.uk/index/finance/afmd/afmd-public-bodies/afmd-public_bodies_to_include_on-board_guide_and_public_bodies_guide/fddfp0814.pdf
Education Authority (EA) staff are employed under terms and conditions set by the National Joint Council (NJC), which has agreed a 2.2% revalorisation pay increase applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016. EA staff are therefore contractually entitled to this revalorisation awarded by the NJC. However, Executive Pay Policy prevents the payment of any pay award prior to securing the necessary approvals.
Once the necessary approvals are secured for the 2014-16 pay remit business case, the implementation of the 2.2% pay award will be processed by the EA, who advised that this could take up to 4 months. This is because there are 2 stages to processing the pay award. EA will first place staff on the correct pay scale points and then arrears will be processed and paid. Eligible staff will receive what is due to them, back dated to January 2015. The delay is due to having to complete a pay remit business case and secure the necessary approvals before any payments can be made, in keeping with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045271%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=233122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=233122"}},{"id":"232749","reference":"AQW 45155/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-28","answerBy":"2015-05-14","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the number of groups in receipt of his Department's Early Years Fund has remained the same in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf. According to monitoring information supplied to DE by EYO, the number of recipients of the Fund in each of the last five years is as detailed in the table below.\n\nYear\tNumber of recipients\n2010-11\t175\n2011-12\t173\n2012-13\t166\n2013-14\t159\n2014-15\t153","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf. According to monitoring information supplied to DE by EYO, the number of recipients of the Fund in each of the last five years is as detailed in the table below.
| Year | Number of recipients |
| 2010-11 | 175 |
| 2011-12 | 173 |
| 2012-13 | 166 |
| 2013-14 | 159 |
| 2014-15 | 153 |
Apart from the Early Years Fund, the main programmes relating to early childhood services funded by my Department to support early years’ education and learning are outlined in the following table. These programmes are in place to provide high quality curriculum based early years educational experiences and to help address barriers to learning in the early years, rather than to sustain early childhood services.
| Pre-School Education Programme |
| Sure Start Programme |
| Toybox |
| Extended Services for non statutory pre-school providers and Extended Schools* |
| SEN Early Years Interim Capacity Building. |
* - schools and settings are deemed eligible for ES funding
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045154%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232748","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232748"}},{"id":"232747","reference":"AQW 45153/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-28","answerBy":"2015-05-14","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the conditions attached to his Department's Early Years Fund as established in 2004; and (ii) how long his Department have had sole responsibility for Early Years provision.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf. The Fund has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. The Fund was transferred to DE along with certain Early Years policies in 2006.\n\nThe original aims of the Fund were:\n\nto help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended, and\n\nto support a number of Capacity and Development posts aimed at enhancing quality and good governance within the early childhood sector.\n\nApplicant groups were required to demonstrate that they:\n\nProvide direct early years care and education to children.\n\nProvide a service in areas of low provision, disadvantaged areas or where the service is considered critical for children\n\nEnsure inclusion and diversity; and\n\nEnsure a standard of excellence in relation to quality.\n\nDE does not have sole responsibility for early years work. Services for young children aged 0-6 and their families are funded, managed and delivered by a range of Departments.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf. The Fund has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. The Fund was transferred to DE along with certain Early Years policies in 2006.
The original aims of the Fund were:
to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended, and
to support a number of Capacity and Development posts aimed at enhancing quality and good governance within the early childhood sector.
Applicant groups were required to demonstrate that they:
Provide direct early years care and education to children.
Provide a service in areas of low provision, disadvantaged areas or where the service is considered critical for children
Ensure inclusion and diversity; and
Ensure a standard of excellence in relation to quality.
DE does not have sole responsibility for early years work. Services for young children aged 0-6 and their families are funded, managed and delivered by a range of Departments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045153%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232747","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232747"}},{"id":"232746","reference":"AQW 45152/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-28","answerBy":"2015-05-14","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the due process and Departmental guidelines regarding consultation procedure; and why there was no separate consultation prior to the announcement of significant cuts to his Department's Early Years Fund.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nWhile there was no legislative requirement for public consultation on the draft Budget I was keen on hearing the views of stakeholders across the education sector with a view to building a consensus on mapping the way forward for education. My Department’s 2015-16 Draft Budget consultation document was published and launched for public consultation on 26 November 2014 setting out my initial assessment of the impact of the Draft Budget 2015-16 for the Department of Education.\n\nOver 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans and help shape the final Budget outcome.\n\nIn reaching final decisions on the 2015-16 Budget allocations, I:\n\nFocused on protecting frontline services as far as possible, promoting equality and raising education standards;\n\nSecured the continuation of specific programmes that reflect the Department’s statutory responsibilities;\n\nContinued to tackle social disadvantage; and\n\nEnsured that support for children with Special Education Needs is prioritised.\n\nOn the 13th January 2015 there was an assembly debate specifically on the Education budget. The majority of MLAs voted to protect school budgets as a priority. During this debate I pointed out that education was much broader than the classroom.\n\nI have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most vulnerable children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed 11.4% of my 2015-16 Resource budget to Early Years’ Provision to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
While there was no legislative requirement for public consultation on the draft Budget I was keen on hearing the views of stakeholders across the education sector with a view to building a consensus on mapping the way forward for education. My Department’s 2015-16 Draft Budget consultation document was published and launched for public consultation on 26 November 2014 setting out my initial assessment of the impact of the Draft Budget 2015-16 for the Department of Education.
Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans and help shape the final Budget outcome.
In reaching final decisions on the 2015-16 Budget allocations, I:
Focused on protecting frontline services as far as possible, promoting equality and raising education standards;
Secured the continuation of specific programmes that reflect the Department’s statutory responsibilities;
Continued to tackle social disadvantage; and
Ensured that support for children with Special Education Needs is prioritised.
On the 13th January 2015 there was an assembly debate specifically on the Education budget. The majority of MLAs voted to protect school budgets as a priority. During this debate I pointed out that education was much broader than the classroom.
I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most vulnerable children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed 11.4% of my 2015-16 Resource budget to Early Years’ Provision to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045152%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232746","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232746"}},{"id":"232744","reference":"AQW 45151/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-28","answerBy":"2015-05-14","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether an equality impact assessment was carried out prior to the announcement of significant cuts to his Department's Early Years Fund.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nThe Early Years Fund was intended to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing difficulties when Peace II funding ended. The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.\n\nThe reduction in funding for the Early Years Fund was subject to an equality screening exercise, which was published on the Department’s website.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
The Early Years Fund was intended to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing difficulties when Peace II funding ended. The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.
The reduction in funding for the Early Years Fund was subject to an equality screening exercise, which was published on the Department’s website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045151%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232744","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232744"}},{"id":"232714","reference":"AQW 45136/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-27","answerBy":"2015-05-13","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his decision to significantly cut his Department's Early Years Fund was subject to rural proofing.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nThe Early Years Fund was intended to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing difficulties when Peace II funding ended. The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.\n\nThe reduction in funding for the Early Years Fund was subject to an equality screening exercise, which included consideration of rural impacts.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
The Early Years Fund was intended to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing difficulties when Peace II funding ended. The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.
The reduction in funding for the Early Years Fund was subject to an equality screening exercise, which included consideration of rural impacts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045136%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232714","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232714"}},{"id":"232713","reference":"AQW 45135/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-27","answerBy":"2015-05-13","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether his Department's annual Service Level Agreement with the Early Years Organisation is in the public domain.","answerText":"The Department has a Service Level Agreement in place with Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) in association with their role as administrator of the Early Years Fund. This contains the agreed terms and conditions between the Department and EYO relating to EYO’s role and responsibilities in administering the Fund.\n\nSLAs are internal management and governance documents and would not therefore be routinely published.","answerHtml":"The Department has a Service Level Agreement in place with Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) in association with their role as administrator of the Early Years Fund. This contains the agreed terms and conditions between the Department and EYO relating to EYO’s role and responsibilities in administering the Fund.
SLAs are internal management and governance documents and would not therefore be routinely published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045135%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232713","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232713"}},{"id":"232712","reference":"AQW 45134/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-27","answerBy":"2015-05-13","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for a breakdown of how the projected need for pre-school places across Northern Ireland for 2015-2016 is calculated.","answerText":"The Pre-School Education Advisory Groups (PEAG) of each Region in the Education Authority (EA) are responsible for ensuring that there is adequate pre-school provision in local areas.\n\nThe Department and the PEAGs maintain regular contact throughout the pre-school admissions process: this includes discussion of the PEAGs’ annual assessment of need; regular reviews of progress as the process moves forward and consideration of how to address emerging pressures.\n\nIn calculating projected need for places, the PEAGs plan on the basis of 92% of the birth rate of the relevant pre-school cohort which represents approximately the percentage of eligible children who apply. It is not possible to match demand for places exactly with supply for a range of reasons including the- non compulsory nature of pre-school education and variations in how parents express their preferences, for example to accommodate childcare arrangements.","answerHtml":"The Pre-School Education Advisory Groups (PEAG) of each Region in the Education Authority (EA) are responsible for ensuring that there is adequate pre-school provision in local areas.
The Department and the PEAGs maintain regular contact throughout the pre-school admissions process: this includes discussion of the PEAGs’ annual assessment of need; regular reviews of progress as the process moves forward and consideration of how to address emerging pressures.
In calculating projected need for places, the PEAGs plan on the basis of 92% of the birth rate of the relevant pre-school cohort which represents approximately the percentage of eligible children who apply. It is not possible to match demand for places exactly with supply for a range of reasons including the- non compulsory nature of pre-school education and variations in how parents express their preferences, for example to accommodate childcare arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045134%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232712","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232712"}},{"id":"232711","reference":"AQW 45133/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-27","answerBy":"2015-05-13","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what discussions his Department has had with pre-school advisory groups, since September 2014, to assess the need for maintaining and increasing pre-school provision.","answerText":"The Pre-School Education Advisory Groups (PEAG) of each Region in the Education Authority (EA) are responsible for ensuring that there is adequate pre-school provision in local areas.\n\nThe Department and the PEAGs maintain regular contact throughout the pre-school admissions process: this includes discussion of the PEAGs’ annual assessment of need; regular reviews of progress as the process moves forward and consideration of how to address emerging pressures.\n\nIn calculating projected need for places, the PEAGs plan on the basis of 92% of the birth rate of the relevant pre-school cohort which represents approximately the percentage of eligible children who apply. It is not possible to match demand for places exactly with supply for a range of reasons including the- non compulsory nature of pre-school education and variations in how parents express their preferences, for example to accommodate childcare arrangements.","answerHtml":"The Pre-School Education Advisory Groups (PEAG) of each Region in the Education Authority (EA) are responsible for ensuring that there is adequate pre-school provision in local areas.
The Department and the PEAGs maintain regular contact throughout the pre-school admissions process: this includes discussion of the PEAGs’ annual assessment of need; regular reviews of progress as the process moves forward and consideration of how to address emerging pressures.
In calculating projected need for places, the PEAGs plan on the basis of 92% of the birth rate of the relevant pre-school cohort which represents approximately the percentage of eligible children who apply. It is not possible to match demand for places exactly with supply for a range of reasons including the- non compulsory nature of pre-school education and variations in how parents express their preferences, for example to accommodate childcare arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045133%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232711","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232711"}},{"id":"232710","reference":"AQW 45132/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-27","answerBy":"2015-04-30","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of children who currently benefit from Early Years funded organisations in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf. According to monitoring information supplied to DE by EYO in relation to 2014/15, 2559 children directly benefitted from the Fund.\n\nThe Fund has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. Undoubtedly, therefore, there are equally deserving children in the north that could benefit from such support.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue. However any such fund will have to be open to all, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf. According to monitoring information supplied to DE by EYO in relation to 2014/15, 2559 children directly benefitted from the Fund.
The Fund has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. Undoubtedly, therefore, there are equally deserving children in the north that could benefit from such support.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue. However any such fund will have to be open to all, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045132%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232710","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232710"}},{"id":"232335","reference":"AQW 45064/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-24","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the fragmentation in responsibility for early years provision and childcare across Departments and arms-length bodies.","answerText":"The key issue for me is not necessarily the number of bodies with responsibility in this area, rather the way in which they work together for the benefit of children and young people.\n\nWithin education, the creation of the Education Authority provides new opportunity to streamline our delivery of education provision for younger children and to work more closely with other departments and public bodies.\n\nAcross departments, the Delivering Social Change framework is also providing a mechanism for effective cross-departmental working on early interventions including early years.\n\nIn recognition of the benefits from aligning children’s services more closely with education, the Executive has also decided that, as part of the wider programme of restructuring of departments here, a new Department of Education will be established that will also have responsibility for certain children’s services. Work is ongoing to determine the children’s services that might transfer to the new Department of Education.","answerHtml":"The key issue for me is not necessarily the number of bodies with responsibility in this area, rather the way in which they work together for the benefit of children and young people.
Within education, the creation of the Education Authority provides new opportunity to streamline our delivery of education provision for younger children and to work more closely with other departments and public bodies.
Across departments, the Delivering Social Change framework is also providing a mechanism for effective cross-departmental working on early interventions including early years.
In recognition of the benefits from aligning children’s services more closely with education, the Executive has also decided that, as part of the wider programme of restructuring of departments here, a new Department of Education will be established that will also have responsibility for certain children’s services. Work is ongoing to determine the children’s services that might transfer to the new Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045064%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232335"}},{"id":"232332","reference":"AQW 45063/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-24","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many groups funded by his Department’s Early Years fund has he visited in the last 12 months.","answerText":"I had not received an invitation to visit any of the groups that have been supported by the Early Years Fund prior to my decision to reduce the budget for the Fund therefore I have not visited any of the groups in the last 12 months.\n\nAs previously advised this decision was taken in light of the significantly reduced money available for Education services as a result of the Executive’s Budget having been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years.","answerHtml":"I had not received an invitation to visit any of the groups that have been supported by the Early Years Fund prior to my decision to reduce the budget for the Fund therefore I have not visited any of the groups in the last 12 months.
As previously advised this decision was taken in light of the significantly reduced money available for Education services as a result of the Executive’s Budget having been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045063%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232332","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232332"}},{"id":"232329","reference":"AQW 45062/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-24","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he will ensure that all children and families have equal opportunity to benefit from the school readiness and social pedagogy approaches of early years groups, who are facing closure due to cuts to his Department’s Early Years fund.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nThe Early Years Fund was intended to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing difficulties when Peace II funding ended. The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.\n\nThere are children equally deserving of support across the north who must also be allowed equal opportunity of access to support. It is essential that any funding is allocated in a fair and transparent manner to ensure that those who need it most can avail of it.\n\nI have committed to review my budget to establish if a Fund can continue beyond 31st August, however, it is important that any new funding will be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and be aligned to the priorities of DE. If funding becomes available, this will be a priority for my Department.\n\nAny new DE funding to support Early Years will be strategically aligned to the Department’s “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families and ensure high quality early learning experiences which lay important foundations for future learning and development.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
The Early Years Fund was intended to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing difficulties when Peace II funding ended. The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.
There are children equally deserving of support across the north who must also be allowed equal opportunity of access to support. It is essential that any funding is allocated in a fair and transparent manner to ensure that those who need it most can avail of it.
I have committed to review my budget to establish if a Fund can continue beyond 31st August, however, it is important that any new funding will be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and be aligned to the priorities of DE. If funding becomes available, this will be a priority for my Department.
Any new DE funding to support Early Years will be strategically aligned to the Department’s “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families and ensure high quality early learning experiences which lay important foundations for future learning and development.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045062%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232329"}},{"id":"232328","reference":"AQW 45061/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-24","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the ripple effects of the cuts to his Department’s Early Years funding, in (i) allowing women to return to work and training; (ii) as a bridge to further funding to expand initial groups; (iii) in contributing to the social fabric of communities; and (iv) in providing early years education in isolated areas.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children on DE’s behalf. It was introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to support certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. It was transferred to DE in November 2006 along with other Early Years policies. The purpose of the funding has remained since transfer to DE.\n\nThe DFP review of the Early Years Fund (2013) indicated that DE should reassess its purpose against current key strategic drivers such as the Programme for Government (PfG), the Department’s priorities, and the pressures that now exist across all Government funding.\n\nThere are children equally deserving of support across the north who cannot benefit from the Fund in its current form and whose situation must also be considered. It is essential that any funding is allocated in a fair and transparent manner to ensure that those who need it most can avail of it.\n\nAny new funding will be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and be strategically aligned to “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families. If funding becomes available, this will be a priority for my Department.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children on DE’s behalf. It was introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to support certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. It was transferred to DE in November 2006 along with other Early Years policies. The purpose of the funding has remained since transfer to DE.
The DFP review of the Early Years Fund (2013) indicated that DE should reassess its purpose against current key strategic drivers such as the Programme for Government (PfG), the Department’s priorities, and the pressures that now exist across all Government funding.
There are children equally deserving of support across the north who cannot benefit from the Fund in its current form and whose situation must also be considered. It is essential that any funding is allocated in a fair and transparent manner to ensure that those who need it most can avail of it.
Any new funding will be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and be strategically aligned to “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families. If funding becomes available, this will be a priority for my Department.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045061%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232328","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232328"}},{"id":"232323","reference":"AQW 45060/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-24","answerBy":"2015-05-12","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, following cuts to his Department's Early Years fund, how he will ensure that groups will be able to sustain a high quality early years services to vulnerable children and families in areas of great need.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nThe DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.\n\nI have committed to review my budget to establish if a Fund can continue beyond 31st August, however, it is important that any new funding will be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and be aligned to the priorities of DE. If funding becomes available, this will be a priority for my Department.\n\nAny new DE funding to support Early Years will be strategically aligned to the Department’s “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families and DE will ensure that all funded Early Years services are subject to a thorough inspection process to maintain quality of provision.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
The DFP Review of the Early Years Fund (2013) found that the Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as only currently funded groups can apply to receive support.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
I have committed to review my budget to establish if a Fund can continue beyond 31st August, however, it is important that any new funding will be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and be aligned to the priorities of DE. If funding becomes available, this will be a priority for my Department.
Any new DE funding to support Early Years will be strategically aligned to the Department’s “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families and DE will ensure that all funded Early Years services are subject to a thorough inspection process to maintain quality of provision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045060%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232323","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232323"}},{"id":"232192","reference":"AQW 45015/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-23","answerBy":"2015-05-11","answered":"2015-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department will increase the provision of support for lone parents and carers, to enable them to participate fully in the Enabling Success Strategy.","answerText":"Lone parents and carers are two of the key target groups of ‘Enabling Success’.\n\nThe strategy commits to help these groups to make the transition towards and into the labour market, on a voluntary basis, through an innovative competitive pilot testing process.\n\nThis will be based upon an outcomes-focused, co-design approach which will develop, test and refine a number of small-scale initiatives for their effectiveness in helping all of the target groups, including lone parents and carers, to progress towards and into the labour market.\n\nExamples of approaches that may warrant further exploration through the pilot testing model may include:\n\ninnovative ways to sustainably engage with people from the target groups at an early stage and on a voluntary basis;\n\nengaging and supporting people from the target groups to improve their pre-employment and job skills in non-traditional settings;\n\nproviding bespoke, holistic mentoring support to people from the target groups to motivate and support them towards and into employment;\n\naddressing issues of transport deprivation, isolation and accessibility, and;\n\nlifting job-search horizons and improving labour mobility in rural settings, amongst others.\n\nThe strategy is committed to addressing the complex issues associated with economic inactivity in Northern Ireland and to help people in the target groups to overcome their personal labour market barriers by providing the tailored solutions required to move into employment.\n\nThe first key step in this process will be to improve engagement with people in the target groups, at an early stage and on a voluntary basis. This will be crucial for the success of the strategy. Once voluntary engagement has been secured, the second key step will be to refine and enhance the package of support mechanisms to assist individuals towards and into the labour market.","answerHtml":"Lone parents and carers are two of the key target groups of ‘Enabling Success’.
The strategy commits to help these groups to make the transition towards and into the labour market, on a voluntary basis, through an innovative competitive pilot testing process.
This will be based upon an outcomes-focused, co-design approach which will develop, test and refine a number of small-scale initiatives for their effectiveness in helping all of the target groups, including lone parents and carers, to progress towards and into the labour market.
Examples of approaches that may warrant further exploration through the pilot testing model may include:
innovative ways to sustainably engage with people from the target groups at an early stage and on a voluntary basis;
engaging and supporting people from the target groups to improve their pre-employment and job skills in non-traditional settings;
providing bespoke, holistic mentoring support to people from the target groups to motivate and support them towards and into employment;
addressing issues of transport deprivation, isolation and accessibility, and;
lifting job-search horizons and improving labour mobility in rural settings, amongst others.
The strategy is committed to addressing the complex issues associated with economic inactivity in Northern Ireland and to help people in the target groups to overcome their personal labour market barriers by providing the tailored solutions required to move into employment.
The first key step in this process will be to improve engagement with people in the target groups, at an early stage and on a voluntary basis. This will be crucial for the success of the strategy. Once voluntary engagement has been secured, the second key step will be to refine and enhance the package of support mechanisms to assist individuals towards and into the labour market.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045015%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232192"}},{"id":"232188","reference":"AQW 45013/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-23","answerBy":"2015-05-11","answered":"2015-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the immediate steps for the implementation of the Enabling Success Strategy.","answerText":"’Enabling Success’ is a major 15 year strategy which sets out the Executive’s long-term vision and commitment to sustainably reduce economic inactivity in Northern Ireland. The strategy will be implemented through a series of 11 cross-departmental projects, subject to the availability of necessary resources.\n\nThe strategy was agreed by the Executive on 16 April and three projects have already been initiated, as detailed below:\n\nProject A – development of an outcomes framework, based on a co-design approach with key stakeholders and the target groups, to inform and guide the competitive pilot testing process;\n\nProject C – development, delivery and evaluation of a geographically focused control group project in an area with high levels of economic inactivity; and\n\nProject K – a series of research projects will be undertaken to identify new sources of data to inform the implementation process and to accurately monitor the progress of the target groups towards and into employment, in line with the strategic objectives.\n\nOther projects will be initiated on a priority basis, subject to adequate resources being secured on a cross-departmental basis.","answerHtml":"’Enabling Success’ is a major 15 year strategy which sets out the Executive’s long-term vision and commitment to sustainably reduce economic inactivity in Northern Ireland. The strategy will be implemented through a series of 11 cross-departmental projects, subject to the availability of necessary resources.
The strategy was agreed by the Executive on 16 April and three projects have already been initiated, as detailed below:
Project A – development of an outcomes framework, based on a co-design approach with key stakeholders and the target groups, to inform and guide the competitive pilot testing process;
Project C – development, delivery and evaluation of a geographically focused control group project in an area with high levels of economic inactivity; and
Project K – a series of research projects will be undertaken to identify new sources of data to inform the implementation process and to accurately monitor the progress of the target groups towards and into employment, in line with the strategic objectives.
Other projects will be initiated on a priority basis, subject to adequate resources being secured on a cross-departmental basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045013%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232188"}},{"id":"232186","reference":"AQW 45012/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-23","answerBy":"2015-05-11","answered":"2015-05-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the work-in-progress to develop a new strategy for Children and Young People, post 2016.","answerText":"A public consultation in January 2014 on Delivering Social Change for Children and Young People considered proposals to bring together the Executive’s work to deliver on the Children and Young People’s Strategy, improve compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and to deliver on its commitments under the Child Poverty Act.\n\nFollowing feedback from the consultation, we took the decision to develop a separate Child Poverty Strategy 2014-2017 (in accordance with the Child Poverty Act 2010), and to engage further with stakeholders and Departments in the development of a new strategy to replace the current Strategy for Children and Young People when it ends in 2016.\n\nThe process to develop the new strategy is underway. This has included an internal review of the existing strategy; identification of all relevant stakeholders; and preliminary engagement with sector representatives to discuss the role of children and young people within our society. As a result of the engagement to date a number of key issues have emerged that will support more extensive consultation. It is our intention that the new strategy will be designed and developed in co-operation with children and young people; parents and representative community and voluntary organisations.","answerHtml":"A public consultation in January 2014 on Delivering Social Change for Children and Young People considered proposals to bring together the Executive’s work to deliver on the Children and Young People’s Strategy, improve compliance with the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and to deliver on its commitments under the Child Poverty Act.
Following feedback from the consultation, we took the decision to develop a separate Child Poverty Strategy 2014-2017 (in accordance with the Child Poverty Act 2010), and to engage further with stakeholders and Departments in the development of a new strategy to replace the current Strategy for Children and Young People when it ends in 2016.
The process to develop the new strategy is underway. This has included an internal review of the existing strategy; identification of all relevant stakeholders; and preliminary engagement with sector representatives to discuss the role of children and young people within our society. As a result of the engagement to date a number of key issues have emerged that will support more extensive consultation. It is our intention that the new strategy will be designed and developed in co-operation with children and young people; parents and representative community and voluntary organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045012%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232186","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232186"}},{"id":"232185","reference":"AQW 45011/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-23","answerBy":"2015-05-11","answered":"2015-05-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 44408/11-15, for the timescale for the delivery of projects within the three work streams in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust area; and to detail the stakeholders who will partner his Department in their delivery.","answerText":"Implementation of the Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia strategy is being taken forward on a regional basis by a project team led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, working in close collaboration with all five Health and Social Care Trusts, including the Northern Trust.\n\nFunding is currently available to enable the three work streams to run until 2017.\n\nThere will be close engagement with a wide range of stakeholders including the voluntary and community sector, academics, and the business sector. Task groups and focus groups emerging from the work streams will include people living with dementia and their carers.","answerHtml":"Implementation of the Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia strategy is being taken forward on a regional basis by a project team led by the Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, working in close collaboration with all five Health and Social Care Trusts, including the Northern Trust.
Funding is currently available to enable the three work streams to run until 2017.
There will be close engagement with a wide range of stakeholders including the voluntary and community sector, academics, and the business sector. Task groups and focus groups emerging from the work streams will include people living with dementia and their carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045011%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232185","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232185"}},{"id":"232184","reference":"AQW 45010/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-23","answerBy":"2015-05-11","answered":"2015-05-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail how the Enabling Success Strategy will target economic inactivity in rural areas.","answerText":"The strategy fully recognises the geographical variances of economic inactivity in Northern Ireland, particularly in terms of the different issues and barriers experienced in urban and rural areas.\n\nIn response to this, the strategy will seek to test a range of different interventions in both urban and rural areas, through a competitive pilot testing process, as outlined in the implementation plan’s Project B.\n\nThis will allow a number of innovative, small-scale initiatives to be tested for their potential to improve outcomes for the target groups. The process will allow for the incremental development, testing and evaluation of initiatives to identify models of best practice through robust performance data.\n\nExamples of approaches that may warrant further exploration through the pilot testing model may include:\n\ninnovative ways to sustainably engage with people from the target groups at an early stage and on a voluntary basis;\n\nengaging and supporting people from the target groups to improve their pre-employment and job skills in non-traditional settings;\n\nproviding bespoke, holistic mentoring support to people from the target groups to motivate and support them towards and into employment;\n\naddressing issues of transport deprivation, isolation and accessibility, and;\n\nlifting job-search horizons and improving labour mobility in rural settings, amongst others.\n\nThis process will also help to identify the key success factors for different circumstances by providing evidence on how to approach different forms of disengagement, such as the urban and rural aspects of inactivity.\n\nBased upon the outcomes of this approach, a geographical action plan may be developed.","answerHtml":"The strategy fully recognises the geographical variances of economic inactivity in Northern Ireland, particularly in terms of the different issues and barriers experienced in urban and rural areas.
In response to this, the strategy will seek to test a range of different interventions in both urban and rural areas, through a competitive pilot testing process, as outlined in the implementation plan’s Project B.
This will allow a number of innovative, small-scale initiatives to be tested for their potential to improve outcomes for the target groups. The process will allow for the incremental development, testing and evaluation of initiatives to identify models of best practice through robust performance data.
Examples of approaches that may warrant further exploration through the pilot testing model may include:
innovative ways to sustainably engage with people from the target groups at an early stage and on a voluntary basis;
engaging and supporting people from the target groups to improve their pre-employment and job skills in non-traditional settings;
providing bespoke, holistic mentoring support to people from the target groups to motivate and support them towards and into employment;
addressing issues of transport deprivation, isolation and accessibility, and;
lifting job-search horizons and improving labour mobility in rural settings, amongst others.
This process will also help to identify the key success factors for different circumstances by providing evidence on how to approach different forms of disengagement, such as the urban and rural aspects of inactivity.
Based upon the outcomes of this approach, a geographical action plan may be developed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2045010%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232184","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232184"}},{"id":"232180","reference":"AQO 8069/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-23","answerBy":"2015-05-11","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the allocation of the European Social Fund.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"Mr Speaker, with your permission, I wish to group questions 5, 6, 7 and 9 — I would have included questions 8 and 11 as well, if the Members were here. I request an additional minute for the answer. The European social fund (ESF) is an open and competitive funding programme. Following the conclusion of the most recent application assessment process, the Department offered funding to 68 applicants. That funding equates to over £112·6 million for the first three years of a seven-year programme. Organisations will receive contributions in the form of 40% from the European Commission, 25% from DEL and 35% from private or public sector match funding. As £180 million worth of applications were originally submitted to the programme, it was inevitable that the Department could not fund all applications. There was insufficient funding to offer all applicants who had scored above the quality threshold. Of the organisations indicating that they wish to deliver provision in West Belfast, seven applicants have been offered funding in the youth priority, eight in the unemployed and inactive priority, and nine in the disability priority. Sixty of the successful applicants were from the community and voluntary sector, with the remaining applicants coming from the statutory or private sectors. Funding to the community and voluntary sector equates to approximately 92% of the total offered. The new programme aims to further drive up skill levels, and this investment in projects across Northern Ireland will provide opportunities to people who face the greatest barriers to work and learning. The funding will help individuals to fulfil their potential by giving them better skills and job prospects. Specifically, the programme will support over 10,000 young people not in education, employment or training; 24,742 participants who are unemployed or economically inactive; and 7,266 people with a disability. Additionally, the programme will provide assistance to 2,340 families. Despite a challenging process and time frame, the Department has been able to complete the ESF assessment process to allow funding to be offered from 1 April."},{"speaker":"Mr Sheehan","text":"Go raibh maith agat, a Cheann Comhairle. Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire as an fhreagra sin. I thank the Minister for his answer. I am sure the Minister is aware that West Belfast is one of the most socially and economically deprived and disadvantaged constituencies anywhere in these islands. The loss of funding to these organisations is a body blow to the constituency. Can the Minister do anything to ensure that the essential services provided by these groups are not lost to West Belfast, and will he give a commitment to meet some of the groups that have lost their funding?"},{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"First, I am happy to meet groups to discuss the outcome of the process, but let me clear, as I was in my original answer: we have listed a large number of projects that will be working in the West Belfast constituency. When the Member talks about organisations that have lost their funding, it is important that he and, indeed, the House bear in mind that this is an open and competitive process. While some of the groups that went into this may well have had pre-existing funding from the fund, there was no guarantee — nor, indeed, should anyone have had the expectation — of continued funding from what is a competitive process."},{"speaker":"","text":"All organisations were judged on their merits. I am satisfied that we have a reasonable geographical balance across Northern Ireland, including west Belfast, which factors in the degree of deprivation in that area compared with some other parts of Northern Ireland. While we cannot guarantee an outcome for particular organisations, overall we have to recognise that the programme has delivered, and we are talking about an expanded programme over the next seven years, compared with what happened previously. We are talking not about cuts but about more money being spent through the different strands of the fund. What we cannot guarantee and manage is that particular organisations will be winners compared with others in a process that is judged on the merit of the applications coming forward."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"On the matter of the time difficulty, can the Minister indicate, where suitable, that a written answer will be provided? I am conscious that four questions have been grouped and that the individuals have been sitting very patiently. Perhaps you would indicate how you wish to answer. I am wasting more time than I have."},{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"Sure, OK."},{"speaker":"Mrs McKevitt","text":"Does the Minister have accurate figures for the number of people who lost employment as a result of unsuccessful applications to the ESF?"},{"speaker":"Dr Farry","text":"I am not able to give figures for the individual organisations. They could be collated through any HR1 forms that come through showing redundancies. However, some organisations might be doing different work as well, so it is not entirely clean to disaggregate the job losses that come from not being funded. I again stress that, while we have the unfortunate situation that some organisations lose money and staff, equally, jobs are being created in other organisations elsewhere in the community and voluntary sector because we have expanded funds. Different organisations are taking forward projects from those under the previous round."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"I apologise to Members who did not get the chance to speak. That took longer than I could afford. That ends the period for listed questions, and we now move on to topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208069%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232180","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-05-11&docID=233139#AQO%208069/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232180"}},{"id":"232017","reference":"AQW 44941/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-22","answerBy":"2015-05-08","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for the average rate increase for non-domestic and domestic properties in (i) Coleraine and (ii) East Londonderry, following Reval 2015.","answerText":"Information on the average rate increase for non-domestic and domestic properties following Reval 2015 is currently unavailable.","answerHtml":"Information on the average rate increase for non-domestic and domestic properties following Reval 2015 is currently unavailable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044941%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232017"}},{"id":"232001","reference":"AQW 44940/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-22","answerBy":"2015-05-08","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of Early Years Specialists in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services provided by the Department of Education (DE). I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nMy Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.\n\nAt Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund (EYF). At this stage it was not possible to engage further with stakeholders.\n\nI have endeavoured to minimise the impact of the reductions as far as possible and so I have ensured that funding is available in 2015/16 to enable all 153 recipients of the EYF to receive continued support to the end of the current academic year (i.e. 31 August 2015).\n\nThe EYF includes a contribution to Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) towards their Early Years Specialist (EYS) team. This contribution is also extended to August 2015.\n\nSpecialist Early Years support can be provided by a qualified teacher with specific experience or a suitably qualified and experienced specialist in Early Years provision. EYSs may be self employed and work independently, or be employed by an organisation, or the group in which they provide support. EYSs are not required to register therefore there is no central list containing either the total number of those persons providing such support or within particular areas in the north.\n\nIn 2014/15 EYO received £235,000 as a contribution towards the EYS programme which they offer to the pre-school sector. EYO is the only organisation which receives support from the EYF for EYS support. Undoubtedly, however (as with the main Fund allocations) there are groups which are equally as deserving of financial support for EYS provision across the north.\n\nAlthough the contribution towards the EYS programme in EYO from the Fund may not be available after August, it should be noted that pre-school groups are free, as has always been the case, to choose from where they source their EYS support, or fulfil the function themselves, if they have suitably qualified staff to do so.\n\nVoluntary and private settings providing funded places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) are required to have support (at least five hours per month) from an EYS.\n\nI have allocated sufficient funding to the Education Authority to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. The cost of employing the EYS is included within the PSEP funding, currently £1801 per child per year.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services provided by the Department of Education (DE). I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
My Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.
At Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund (EYF). At this stage it was not possible to engage further with stakeholders.
I have endeavoured to minimise the impact of the reductions as far as possible and so I have ensured that funding is available in 2015/16 to enable all 153 recipients of the EYF to receive continued support to the end of the current academic year (i.e. 31 August 2015).
The EYF includes a contribution to Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) towards their Early Years Specialist (EYS) team. This contribution is also extended to August 2015.
Specialist Early Years support can be provided by a qualified teacher with specific experience or a suitably qualified and experienced specialist in Early Years provision. EYSs may be self employed and work independently, or be employed by an organisation, or the group in which they provide support. EYSs are not required to register therefore there is no central list containing either the total number of those persons providing such support or within particular areas in the north.
In 2014/15 EYO received £235,000 as a contribution towards the EYS programme which they offer to the pre-school sector. EYO is the only organisation which receives support from the EYF for EYS support. Undoubtedly, however (as with the main Fund allocations) there are groups which are equally as deserving of financial support for EYS provision across the north.
Although the contribution towards the EYS programme in EYO from the Fund may not be available after August, it should be noted that pre-school groups are free, as has always been the case, to choose from where they source their EYS support, or fulfil the function themselves, if they have suitably qualified staff to do so.
Voluntary and private settings providing funded places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) are required to have support (at least five hours per month) from an EYS.
I have allocated sufficient funding to the Education Authority to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. The cost of employing the EYS is included within the PSEP funding, currently £1801 per child per year.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044940%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232001","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232001"}},{"id":"232000","reference":"AQW 44939/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-22","answerBy":"2015-05-08","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of how cuts to the Early Years Fund will impact on Early Years Specialists; and to detail the number of Early Years Specialist positions which will be threatened.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services provided by the Department of Education (DE). I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nMy Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.\n\nAt Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund (EYF). At this stage it was not possible to engage further with stakeholders.\n\nI have endeavoured to minimise the impact of the reductions as far as possible and so I have ensured that funding is available in 2015/16 to enable all 153 recipients of the EYF to receive continued support to the end of the current academic year (i.e. 31 August 2015).\n\nThe EYF includes a contribution to Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) towards their Early Years Specialist (EYS) team. This contribution is also extended to August 2015.\n\nSpecialist Early Years support can be provided by a qualified teacher with specific experience or a suitably qualified and experienced specialist in Early Years provision. EYSs may be self employed and work independently, or be employed by an organisation, or the group in which they provide support. EYSs are not required to register therefore there is no central list containing either the total number of those persons providing such support or within particular areas in the north.\n\nIn 2014/15 EYO received £235,000 as a contribution towards the EYS programme which they offer to the pre-school sector. EYO is the only organisation which receives support from the EYF for EYS support. Undoubtedly, however (as with the main Fund allocations) there are groups which are equally as deserving of financial support for EYS provision across the north.\n\nAlthough the contribution towards the EYS programme in EYO from the Fund may not be available after August, it should be noted that pre-school groups are free, as has always been the case, to choose from where they source their EYS support, or fulfil the function themselves, if they have suitably qualified staff to do so.\n\nVoluntary and private settings providing funded places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) are required to have support (at least five hours per month) from an EYS.\n\nI have allocated sufficient funding to the Education Authority to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. The cost of employing the EYS is included within the PSEP funding, currently £1801 per child per year.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services provided by the Department of Education (DE). I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
My Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.
At Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund (EYF). At this stage it was not possible to engage further with stakeholders.
I have endeavoured to minimise the impact of the reductions as far as possible and so I have ensured that funding is available in 2015/16 to enable all 153 recipients of the EYF to receive continued support to the end of the current academic year (i.e. 31 August 2015).
The EYF includes a contribution to Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) towards their Early Years Specialist (EYS) team. This contribution is also extended to August 2015.
Specialist Early Years support can be provided by a qualified teacher with specific experience or a suitably qualified and experienced specialist in Early Years provision. EYSs may be self employed and work independently, or be employed by an organisation, or the group in which they provide support. EYSs are not required to register therefore there is no central list containing either the total number of those persons providing such support or within particular areas in the north.
In 2014/15 EYO received £235,000 as a contribution towards the EYS programme which they offer to the pre-school sector. EYO is the only organisation which receives support from the EYF for EYS support. Undoubtedly, however (as with the main Fund allocations) there are groups which are equally as deserving of financial support for EYS provision across the north.
Although the contribution towards the EYS programme in EYO from the Fund may not be available after August, it should be noted that pre-school groups are free, as has always been the case, to choose from where they source their EYS support, or fulfil the function themselves, if they have suitably qualified staff to do so.
Voluntary and private settings providing funded places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) are required to have support (at least five hours per month) from an EYS.
I have allocated sufficient funding to the Education Authority to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. The cost of employing the EYS is included within the PSEP funding, currently £1801 per child per year.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044939%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=232000","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=232000"}},{"id":"231999","reference":"AQW 44938/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-22","answerBy":"2015-05-08","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what communication his Department had with Early Years Specialists prior to the proposal to cut the Early Years Fund.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services provided by the Department of Education (DE). I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nMy Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.\n\nAt Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund (EYF). At this stage it was not possible to engage further with stakeholders.\n\nI have endeavoured to minimise the impact of the reductions as far as possible and so I have ensured that funding is available in 2015/16 to enable all 153 recipients of the EYF to receive continued support to the end of the current academic year (i.e. 31 August 2015).\n\nThe EYF includes a contribution to Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) towards their Early Years Specialist (EYS) team. This contribution is also extended to August 2015.\n\nSpecialist Early Years support can be provided by a qualified teacher with specific experience or a suitably qualified and experienced specialist in Early Years provision. EYSs may be self employed and work independently, or be employed by an organisation, or the group in which they provide support. EYSs are not required to register therefore there is no central list containing either the total number of those persons providing such support or within particular areas in the north.\n\nIn 2014/15 EYO received £235,000 as a contribution towards the EYS programme which they offer to the pre-school sector. EYO is the only organisation which receives support from the EYF for EYS support. Undoubtedly, however (as with the main Fund allocations) there are groups which are equally as deserving of financial support for EYS provision across the north.\n\nAlthough the contribution towards the EYS programme in EYO from the Fund may not be available after August, it should be noted that pre-school groups are free, as has always been the case, to choose from where they source their EYS support, or fulfil the function themselves, if they have suitably qualified staff to do so.\n\nVoluntary and private settings providing funded places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) are required to have support (at least five hours per month) from an EYS.\n\nI have allocated sufficient funding to the Education Authority to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. The cost of employing the EYS is included within the PSEP funding, currently £1801 per child per year.\n\nI fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services provided by the Department of Education (DE). I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the DE remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
My Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.
At Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund (EYF). At this stage it was not possible to engage further with stakeholders.
I have endeavoured to minimise the impact of the reductions as far as possible and so I have ensured that funding is available in 2015/16 to enable all 153 recipients of the EYF to receive continued support to the end of the current academic year (i.e. 31 August 2015).
The EYF includes a contribution to Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) towards their Early Years Specialist (EYS) team. This contribution is also extended to August 2015.
Specialist Early Years support can be provided by a qualified teacher with specific experience or a suitably qualified and experienced specialist in Early Years provision. EYSs may be self employed and work independently, or be employed by an organisation, or the group in which they provide support. EYSs are not required to register therefore there is no central list containing either the total number of those persons providing such support or within particular areas in the north.
In 2014/15 EYO received £235,000 as a contribution towards the EYS programme which they offer to the pre-school sector. EYO is the only organisation which receives support from the EYF for EYS support. Undoubtedly, however (as with the main Fund allocations) there are groups which are equally as deserving of financial support for EYS provision across the north.
Although the contribution towards the EYS programme in EYO from the Fund may not be available after August, it should be noted that pre-school groups are free, as has always been the case, to choose from where they source their EYS support, or fulfil the function themselves, if they have suitably qualified staff to do so.
Voluntary and private settings providing funded places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) are required to have support (at least five hours per month) from an EYS.
I have allocated sufficient funding to the Education Authority to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. The cost of employing the EYS is included within the PSEP funding, currently £1801 per child per year.
I fully recognise the importance of Early Years education particularly for our most disadvantaged of children which is why, despite the difficult budgetary position, I have committed over £216m toward Early Years education for 2015/16 to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044938%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231999","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231999"}},{"id":"231998","reference":"AQW 44937/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-22","answerBy":"2015-05-08","answered":"2015-05-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 44266/11-15, to detail all relevant stakeholders who were consulted, specifically in regards to cuts to the Early Years Fund, prior to his Department’s announcement.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nAs mentioned previously, my Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.\n\nAt Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund.\n\nThe DFP Review of the Fund (2013) found that the Early Years Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as there undoubtedly are other children equally deserving of support across the north.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit, however, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
As mentioned previously, my Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education. Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans.
At Final Budget stage my Department was facing a £97.6m 2015-16 funding gap and to mitigate the risk that insufficient savings would be realised, additional savings were identified which included the £2m budget reduction to the Early Years Fund.
The DFP Review of the Fund (2013) found that the Early Years Fund, which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children, has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since introduced by DHSSPS in 2004, to applicant groups that were in areas of greatest need of support to become sustainable at that time, following the ending of Peace II funding. It is therefore not equitable to allow it to continue in its current form as there undoubtedly are other children equally deserving of support across the north.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE. If additional money becomes available, this funding will be a priority for my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044937%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231998","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231998"}},{"id":"231781","reference":"AQW 44848/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-21","answerBy":"2015-05-07","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the percentage of businesses, following Reval 2015, who are eligible for the small business rates relief scheme, in (i) Coleraine and (ii) East Londonderry and whether he will consider recalibrating the criteria.","answerText":"Information on the percentage of businesses which were eligible for Small Business Rates Relief by parliamentary constituency is not available.","answerHtml":"Information on the percentage of businesses which were eligible for Small Business Rates Relief by parliamentary constituency is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044848%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231781","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231781"}},{"id":"231780","reference":"AQW 44847/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-21","answerBy":"2015-05-07","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of businesses which were eligible for small business rates relief of 20 percent or 25 percent in (i) Coleraine, (ii) in each constituency, prior to Reval 2015.","answerText":"Information on the number of businesses which were eligible for the 20% or 25% rates of Small Business Rates Relief by parliamentary constituency is not available.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of businesses which were eligible for the 20% or 25% rates of Small Business Rates Relief by parliamentary constituency is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044847%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231780","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231780"}},{"id":"231779","reference":"AQW 44846/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-21","answerBy":"2015-05-07","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of Post Offices who were eligible for 20 percent and 50 percent small business rates relief, in (i) East Londonderry and (ii) Northern Ireland, prior to Reval 2015.","answerText":"Information on the number of Post Offices which were eligible for the 20% and 50% Small Business Rates Relief in East Londonderry is not available.","answerHtml":"Information on the number of Post Offices which were eligible for the 20% and 50% Small Business Rates Relief in East Londonderry is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044846%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231779","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231779"}},{"id":"231778","reference":"AQW 44845/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-21","answerBy":"2015-05-07","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the percentage of businesses in the East Londonderry area, who were eligible for the small business rate relief scheme prior to Reval 2015, but are no longer eligible following the rise in their Net Annual Value.","answerText":"Information on the percentage of businesses which were eligible for Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) but are no longer eligible following the rise in their Net Annual Value in the East Londonderry area is not available.","answerHtml":"Information on the percentage of businesses which were eligible for Small Business Rate Relief (SBRR) but are no longer eligible following the rise in their Net Annual Value in the East Londonderry area is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044845%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231778","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231778"}},{"id":"231774","reference":"AQW 44844/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-21","answerBy":"2015-05-07","answered":"2015-05-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of Post Offices in the East Londonderry area that were eligible for the small business rates relief scheme prior to Reval 2015 but are no longer eligible following the rise in their Net Annual Value.","answerText":"The information requested is not currently available.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not currently available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044844%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231774","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231774"}},{"id":"231574","reference":"AQW 44739/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-20","answerBy":"2015-05-06","answered":"2015-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to list the departmental financial support available to community social enterprises in the Arts sector.","answerText":"Invest Northern Ireland provides support to businesses, including social enterprises, across a range of sectors based on a range of eligibility criteria, including the intention to sell outside of Northern Ireland. Support available can include financial assistance to cover key areas, such as skills, innovation, research and development, exporting, job creation and capital investment. Businesses can also avail of a range of advisory assistance and free workshops on a number of business related topics including sales & marketing, design and finance.\n\nFor those social enterprises which are delivering their services locally Invest Northern Ireland will continue to provide wider business support, in the form of information and advice services.\n\nWhile social entrepreneurship activities represent part of the functions previously delivered by Invest NI that have now transferred to the new Councils from 1 April 2015, Invest NI will continue to manage the delivery of the current Social Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) contract until its completion in July 2015.\n\nA number of social enterprises in the Arts sector have participated on the SEP. The core elements of SEP ranges from basic advice on areas such as developing a business idea, product development, legal structure and marketing to mentoring support to produce a business plan and aftercare for the first year of trading.\n\nInvest NI is also overseeing the new Social Enterprise hubs that are now successfully operating across the 9 Social Investment Fund (SIF) zones in Northern Ireland. Significant momentum is being achieved in the development of new social enterprises in the social enterprise hubs.\n\nInvest NI in partnership with DCAL is also jointly funding the Music Business Support Programme. This is a three year programme (2014-2016) which aims to increase the economic contribution of the music industry in Northern Ireland by providing mentoring; running industry seminars; talent development and providing support for international trade events.","answerHtml":"Invest Northern Ireland provides support to businesses, including social enterprises, across a range of sectors based on a range of eligibility criteria, including the intention to sell outside of Northern Ireland. Support available can include financial assistance to cover key areas, such as skills, innovation, research and development, exporting, job creation and capital investment. Businesses can also avail of a range of advisory assistance and free workshops on a number of business related topics including sales & marketing, design and finance.
For those social enterprises which are delivering their services locally Invest Northern Ireland will continue to provide wider business support, in the form of information and advice services.
While social entrepreneurship activities represent part of the functions previously delivered by Invest NI that have now transferred to the new Councils from 1 April 2015, Invest NI will continue to manage the delivery of the current Social Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) contract until its completion in July 2015.
A number of social enterprises in the Arts sector have participated on the SEP. The core elements of SEP ranges from basic advice on areas such as developing a business idea, product development, legal structure and marketing to mentoring support to produce a business plan and aftercare for the first year of trading.
Invest NI is also overseeing the new Social Enterprise hubs that are now successfully operating across the 9 Social Investment Fund (SIF) zones in Northern Ireland. Significant momentum is being achieved in the development of new social enterprises in the social enterprise hubs.
Invest NI in partnership with DCAL is also jointly funding the Music Business Support Programme. This is a three year programme (2014-2016) which aims to increase the economic contribution of the music industry in Northern Ireland by providing mentoring; running industry seminars; talent development and providing support for international trade events.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044739%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231574","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231574"}},{"id":"231573","reference":"AQW 44738/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-20","answerBy":"2015-05-06","answered":"2015-08-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to list the departmental financial support available to community social enterprises in the Arts sector.","answerText":"Previously under the Arts Council's Creative Industries Innovation Fund, a number of community and social enterprises were supported across the creative sector.\n\nExamples include Ballymena Business Centre's programme of support for up to 30 new entrepreneurs from the craft sector which included business training and mentoring as well as the opportunity for participants to showcase and sell their products in the new town centre Retail Incubation Hub.\n\nThe North West Socio Economic Development Programme contained an £880k Cultural Hub Development Programme which provided the equipment and software to create 16 cultural hubs within communities in the North West, giving local people access to technology for education, community activity and social enterprise.\n\nDue to budget constraints, there is no baseline budget for either the Creative Industries or the North West in the 2015-2016 financial year.\n\nI have, however, established a Ministerial Action Group (MAG) on the Creative Industries with the purpose of:\n\nProviding a strategic forum for stakeholders across creative industries to engage with each other and Government;\n\nEnsuring a cross-departmental commitment to working on skills, education and the creative economy i.e. strong economy needs a strong creative economy; and\n\nProviding a platform to enhance collaboration and identify opportunities to support the growth of the sector, enabling creative ideas, creative people and creative businesses to emerge and flourish.","answerHtml":"Previously under the Arts Council's Creative Industries Innovation Fund, a number of community and social enterprises were supported across the creative sector.
Examples include Ballymena Business Centre's programme of support for up to 30 new entrepreneurs from the craft sector which included business training and mentoring as well as the opportunity for participants to showcase and sell their products in the new town centre Retail Incubation Hub.
The North West Socio Economic Development Programme contained an £880k Cultural Hub Development Programme which provided the equipment and software to create 16 cultural hubs within communities in the North West, giving local people access to technology for education, community activity and social enterprise.
Due to budget constraints, there is no baseline budget for either the Creative Industries or the North West in the 2015-2016 financial year.
I have, however, established a Ministerial Action Group (MAG) on the Creative Industries with the purpose of:
Providing a strategic forum for stakeholders across creative industries to engage with each other and Government;
Ensuring a cross-departmental commitment to working on skills, education and the creative economy i.e. strong economy needs a strong creative economy; and
Providing a platform to enhance collaboration and identify opportunities to support the growth of the sector, enabling creative ideas, creative people and creative businesses to emerge and flourish.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044738%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231573","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231573"}},{"id":"231541","reference":"AQW 44712/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-20","answerBy":"2015-05-06","answered":"2015-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 43733/11-15, to outline how private ambulance services are monitored for training, health and safety, and professional practice.","answerText":"Health and Social Care Trusts, which use the services of private ambulance providers, specify in their agreements with the contractors the Trust’s requirements in respect of training, health and safety and professional practice and monitor compliance with these.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care Trusts, which use the services of private ambulance providers, specify in their agreements with the contractors the Trust’s requirements in respect of training, health and safety and professional practice and monitor compliance with these.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044712%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231541","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231541"}},{"id":"231539","reference":"AQW 44710/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-20","answerBy":"2015-05-06","answered":"2015-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 43733/11-15, what plans he has to train and recruit additional frontline ambulance service staff in order to curb long term expenditure on private ambulance services.","answerText":"Recruitment matters are the responsibility of individual HSC employers. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is currently undertaking a comprehensive recruitment programme across a number of operational frontline groups (Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Ambulance Care Attendants (ACAs) and Emergency Medical Dispatchers) as part of the stabilisation and modernisation of the workforce in line with patient needs and commissioners’ expectations.\n\nDuring the summer of 2014 NIAS recruited qualified Paramedics and EMTs thereby offering staff in training for these positions an opportunity to gain full time permanent employment within the NIAS. The programme has continued in early 2015 with the recruitment of unqualified EMTs with the first cohort of 20 trainees starting their training in March 2015; the second cohort of 24 to start training in July 2015; and a further two cohorts planned for Autumn 2015.\n\nIn addition NIAS has also recently recruited qualified ACAs who will be taking up their permanent posts in May 2015 as well as unqualified ACAs to backfill any vacancies resulting from the career opportunities provided through the recruitment to EMT posts.","answerHtml":"Recruitment matters are the responsibility of individual HSC employers. The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) is currently undertaking a comprehensive recruitment programme across a number of operational frontline groups (Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), Ambulance Care Attendants (ACAs) and Emergency Medical Dispatchers) as part of the stabilisation and modernisation of the workforce in line with patient needs and commissioners’ expectations.
During the summer of 2014 NIAS recruited qualified Paramedics and EMTs thereby offering staff in training for these positions an opportunity to gain full time permanent employment within the NIAS. The programme has continued in early 2015 with the recruitment of unqualified EMTs with the first cohort of 20 trainees starting their training in March 2015; the second cohort of 24 to start training in July 2015; and a further two cohorts planned for Autumn 2015.
In addition NIAS has also recently recruited qualified ACAs who will be taking up their permanent posts in May 2015 as well as unqualified ACAs to backfill any vacancies resulting from the career opportunities provided through the recruitment to EMT posts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044710%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231539","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231539"}},{"id":"231537","reference":"AQW 44708/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-20","answerBy":"2015-05-06","answered":"2015-05-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 43733/11-15, whether he will consider reviewing the use of private ambulance services as part of his Department’s efficiency savings.","answerText":"Independent ambulances are used to deliver services when ambulances from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service are unable to meet requests for transport for patient transfer and discharge. By using independent providers, Trusts are able to maintain flows across hospitals and avoid delays for patients requiring admission. Maintaining patient flow is essential in the provision of safe, quality care and efficient use of resources.\n\nTrusts are expected to give due consideration to all areas of potential savings and efficiencies without impacting on the delivery of safe and effective services.","answerHtml":"Independent ambulances are used to deliver services when ambulances from the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service are unable to meet requests for transport for patient transfer and discharge. By using independent providers, Trusts are able to maintain flows across hospitals and avoid delays for patients requiring admission. Maintaining patient flow is essential in the provision of safe, quality care and efficient use of resources.
Trusts are expected to give due consideration to all areas of potential savings and efficiencies without impacting on the delivery of safe and effective services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044708%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231537","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231537"}},{"id":"231474","reference":"AQW 44682/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-17","answerBy":"2015-05-05","answered":"2015-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether an expert group has been set up to support officials to develop and deliver age discrimination legislation.","answerText":"An expert group to support officials to develop and deliver age discrimination legislation has not been established. We have, however, brought together a small number of key stakeholders with expertise in the area to provide officials with comments on the draft consultation document setting out our proposals for prohibiting unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services.","answerHtml":"An expert group to support officials to develop and deliver age discrimination legislation has not been established. We have, however, brought together a small number of key stakeholders with expertise in the area to provide officials with comments on the draft consultation document setting out our proposals for prohibiting unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044682%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231474","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231474"}},{"id":"231473","reference":"AQW 44681/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-17","answerBy":"2015-05-05","answered":"2015-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what plans they have to pilot the 2015 100 summer camps programme, outside of Belfast.","answerText":"The Summer Camps Pilot Programme opened for applications on 15 April 2015 with a closing date of 3pm on 8 May 2015.\n\nThe Camps will operate on both a local and regional level and will be open to young people aged 11 to 19 years. Applications to deliver a Camp are invited from registered voluntary youth organisations and statutory youth organisations or bona fide voluntary and community organisations, schools, regional organisations and Councils that have experience in working with young people.\n\nThe Application Forms and Guidance Note, which contain full details about the 2015 Programme, can be found on the Department’s website at www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/summer-camps-programme-2015-pilot.","answerHtml":"The Summer Camps Pilot Programme opened for applications on 15 April 2015 with a closing date of 3pm on 8 May 2015.
The Camps will operate on both a local and regional level and will be open to young people aged 11 to 19 years. Applications to deliver a Camp are invited from registered voluntary youth organisations and statutory youth organisations or bona fide voluntary and community organisations, schools, regional organisations and Councils that have experience in working with young people.
The Application Forms and Guidance Note, which contain full details about the 2015 Programme, can be found on the Department’s website at www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/summer-camps-programme-2015-pilot.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044681%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231473","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231473"}},{"id":"231471","reference":"AQW 44679/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-17","answerBy":"2015-05-05","answered":"2015-07-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they are ensuring that the needs of local community stakeholders continue to be considered within plans for the development of the Shackleton Site at Ballykelly; and what proportion of the site will be designated to the community and voluntary sector.","answerText":"Officials have had meetings with the local community association in Ballykelly regarding the community benefits which could be derived from the future development of the Shackleton site.\n\nAny plans for the future development of the Shackleton site will be expected to demonstrate how community needs have been identified and will be met.","answerHtml":"Officials have had meetings with the local community association in Ballykelly regarding the community benefits which could be derived from the future development of the Shackleton site.
Any plans for the future development of the Shackleton site will be expected to demonstrate how community needs have been identified and will be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044679%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231471"}},{"id":"231468","reference":"AQW 44677/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-17","answerBy":"2015-05-05","answered":"2015-04-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he plans to extend the Small Business Rate Relief for small Post Offices beyond 1 April 2015.","answerText":"Last year the Small Business Rate Relief scheme (SBRR) was evaluated by the NI Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP). Their report recommended phasing out the SBRR but retaining it in its current form this financial year. I have since agreed to follow this recommendation and the scheme has subsequently been extended for a further year until 31 March 2016 with the same NAV thresholds and % allowances for both the main scheme and the post office enhancement.","answerHtml":"Last year the Small Business Rate Relief scheme (SBRR) was evaluated by the NI Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP). Their report recommended phasing out the SBRR but retaining it in its current form this financial year. I have since agreed to follow this recommendation and the scheme has subsequently been extended for a further year until 31 March 2016 with the same NAV thresholds and % allowances for both the main scheme and the post office enhancement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044677%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231468","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231468"}},{"id":"231464","reference":"AQW 44673/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-17","answerBy":"2015-05-05","answered":"2015-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to list the local community and business representatives which her Department has engaged with on the development of the Ballykelly site.","answerText":"My officials have engaged with the Ballykelly Community Group, whose representatives include members of the local business community.\n\nEngagement has also taken place between my Department and other local residents directly impacted by the development at the Ballykelly site.","answerHtml":"My officials have engaged with the Ballykelly Community Group, whose representatives include members of the local business community.
Engagement has also taken place between my Department and other local residents directly impacted by the development at the Ballykelly site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044673%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231464","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231464"}},{"id":"231377","reference":"AQW 44623/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-16","answerBy":"2015-05-01","answered":"2015-04-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether the finance to fund a 2.2 per cent pay rise for Education Authority workers for the 2014-16 pay period has been ring-fenced by his Department","answerText":"I can confirm the 2.2% pay award due to eligible Education and Library Board (ELB) staff (now Education Authority (EA)) for the period 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2015 has been accounted for in the Department of Education’s 2014-15 budget.","answerHtml":"I can confirm the 2.2% pay award due to eligible Education and Library Board (ELB) staff (now Education Authority (EA)) for the period 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2015 has been accounted for in the Department of Education’s 2014-15 budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044623%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231377","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231377"}},{"id":"231375","reference":"AQW 44622/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-16","answerBy":"2015-04-22","answered":"2015-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when the 2.2 per cent pay rise for 2014-16 will be paid to employees of the Education Authority.","answerText":"Once the necessary approvals have been secured in accordance with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy, the Education Authority will process payment of the revised rates of pay in line with a 2.2 per cent pay rise applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016.","answerHtml":"Once the necessary approvals have been secured in accordance with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy, the Education Authority will process payment of the revised rates of pay in line with a 2.2 per cent pay rise applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044622%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231375","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231375"}},{"id":"231372","reference":"AQW 44621/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-16","answerBy":"2015-05-01","answered":"2015-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what contact his Department has had with staff of the Education Authority with regards to an agreed pay rise for the 2014-16 pay period.","answerText":"The Department commissioned the information regarding the 2.2 per cent pay award, applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016, from the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) on 12 December 2014. The Department met with the ELBs on 18 December 2014 and the information required, in accordance with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy, was submitted to the Department on 26 January 2015. Since then, there have been numerous contacts with the ELBs (now, the Education Authority, EA) on this matter, including 3 formal meetings, 1 in February and 2 in March 2015. Most recently, on 20 April 2015, my officials met with EA Senior Management and TUS to provide an update on progress of the pay remit business case.","answerHtml":"The Department commissioned the information regarding the 2.2 per cent pay award, applicable from 1 January 2015 to 31 March 2016, from the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) on 12 December 2014. The Department met with the ELBs on 18 December 2014 and the information required, in accordance with the Executive’s Public Sector Pay Policy, was submitted to the Department on 26 January 2015. Since then, there have been numerous contacts with the ELBs (now, the Education Authority, EA) on this matter, including 3 formal meetings, 1 in February and 2 in March 2015. Most recently, on 20 April 2015, my officials met with EA Senior Management and TUS to provide an update on progress of the pay remit business case.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044621%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231372","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231372"}},{"id":"231363","reference":"AQW 44614/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-16","answerBy":"2015-05-01","answered":"2015-05-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 41980/11-15, to detail (i) what communication his Department has had with Ulster University, Coleraine Campus, with regard to preparing a business case; (ii) what items have been submitted to his Department by Ulster University, to date; and (iii) whether funding is available following submission of a complete business case.","answerText":"Ulster University submitted a draft of the first five sections of a business case for the establishment of a school of veterinary science at its Coleraine campus in December 2013. Officials provided feedback to the University in January 2014. The University responded in April 2014 and officials provided further feedback in May 2014. A meeting between officials and University representatives then took place on 17 June 2014. The University has not submitted anything further on the business case since then.\n\nIn the present financial climate when funding to the universities has been reduced in the current year, it is very unlikely that funding will be available for veterinary science at the Coleraine campus should a full business case be submitted. Undergraduate places at both universities will be lost in the 2015-16 academic year and my priority is to protect the places that we currently fund.","answerHtml":"Ulster University submitted a draft of the first five sections of a business case for the establishment of a school of veterinary science at its Coleraine campus in December 2013. Officials provided feedback to the University in January 2014. The University responded in April 2014 and officials provided further feedback in May 2014. A meeting between officials and University representatives then took place on 17 June 2014. The University has not submitted anything further on the business case since then.
In the present financial climate when funding to the universities has been reduced in the current year, it is very unlikely that funding will be available for veterinary science at the Coleraine campus should a full business case be submitted. Undergraduate places at both universities will be lost in the 2015-16 academic year and my priority is to protect the places that we currently fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044614%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231363","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231363"}},{"id":"231361","reference":"AQW 44613/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-16","answerBy":"2015-05-01","answered":"2015-05-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the new build for the Northern Regional College, Coleraine; and to detail what progress has been made on a new curriculum design as part of this process.","answerText":"The Northern Regional College is developing an Outline Business Case which will address the accommodation needs throughout the College Estate including the Coleraine area. The Business Case will take account of a revised Curriculum Plan and Schedule of Accommodation which received Education and Training Inspectorate approval in March 2015. The Schedule of Accommodation determines the size and type of buildings required to meet the accommodation needs across the College estate. Also, further site options have been identified in the area, which require evaluation in the Outline Business Case. Department of Finance and Personnel approval was given at the start of April to cover the cost of this additional work on the Outline Business Case.\n\nFull approval of the Outline Business Case is planned for August 2015 and following this, I will make an announcement on the preferred option.","answerHtml":"The Northern Regional College is developing an Outline Business Case which will address the accommodation needs throughout the College Estate including the Coleraine area. The Business Case will take account of a revised Curriculum Plan and Schedule of Accommodation which received Education and Training Inspectorate approval in March 2015. The Schedule of Accommodation determines the size and type of buildings required to meet the accommodation needs across the College estate. Also, further site options have been identified in the area, which require evaluation in the Outline Business Case. Department of Finance and Personnel approval was given at the start of April to cover the cost of this additional work on the Outline Business Case.
Full approval of the Outline Business Case is planned for August 2015 and following this, I will make an announcement on the preferred option.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044613%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231361"}},{"id":"231338","reference":"AQO 8008/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-16","answerBy":"2015-04-27","answered":"2015-04-27","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how they ensure their Department undertakes appropriate consultation with relevant stakeholders concerning specific constituency matters.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr P Robinson","text":"Unfortunately, it is difficult to ascertain from the question what is really being asked. However, consultation takes place every year on a wide range of issues, some affecting all the people of Northern Ireland and others relating to the needs of particular geographic areas, which is what I take the Member to mean by her reference to specific constituency matters. As the Member implies, it is important that the method and scale of consultation is appropriate to the issue. A variety of methods have been increasingly used to maximise the participation of stakeholders in the consultation process. There is also an increasing emphasis on ongoing active engagement between Government and citizens in the development of policy from the earliest stages and a move away from relying exclusively on set-piece formal consultations. Consultation can therefore range from the traditional method of publishing a consultation document to, for example, roadshows, the facilitation of focus groups and of course direct engagement with local community interests. To stimulate interest and awareness, consultation documents and details of formal consultation events will also be published through local media as well as online at Northern Ireland Direct and departmental websites."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"I call Ms Sugden for a quick supplementary question."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Thank you, Mr Speaker. I thank the First Minister for his answer. I have a situation in Portrush where we have a cross-departmental programme on an initiative. I have had a lot of representations from constituents who are concerned about the lack of consultation with them. I want to know what influence, if any, the First Minister and his deputy have in respect of influencing Departments to actually seek the views of the people who matter."},{"speaker":"Mr P Robinson","text":"I do not know the particular case that the Member referred to. If she would like to write to me or even to bring a delegation to see the deputy First Minister and me, we are both always willing to meet people and hear their views on issues that affect our Department. If it is cross-departmental, it may involve another Minister. If the Member wants to speak to me afterwards, I am happy to see if we can assist her in making sure that people's views are heard. The deputy First Minister and I are always willing, when possible, to take those on board."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"That ends the period for listed questions, and we move on to 15 minutes of topical questions."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%208008%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231338","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-04-27&docID=231884#AQO%208008/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231338"}},{"id":"231120","reference":"AQW 44535/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-15","answerBy":"2015-04-30","answered":"2015-05-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the process to establish a civic advisory panel, as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement; and whether it is likely to be in place by June 2015.","answerText":"The Stormont House Agreement envisaged that a new engagement model could be achieved by June 2015 through the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel, which would meet regularly to consider key social, cultural and economic matters and to advise the Executive.\n\nThe arrangements for taking forward this commitment are currently being considered by Executive party leaders.","answerHtml":"The Stormont House Agreement envisaged that a new engagement model could be achieved by June 2015 through the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel, which would meet regularly to consider key social, cultural and economic matters and to advise the Executive.
The arrangements for taking forward this commitment are currently being considered by Executive party leaders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044535%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231120"}},{"id":"231104","reference":"AQW 44520/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-15","answerBy":"2015-04-30","answered":"2015-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on the formation of Local Action Groups, and their full implementation, under the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.","answerText":"The Local Action Groups (LAGs) have now selected their Board members and are currently completing application forms to submit to my Department to qualify as the LAG within their area. These applications will be assessed during May and the successful LAG’s will be appointed to develop an Interim Local Rural Development Strategy for their area.\n\nThe strategies will be assessed by my officials and LAGs whose strategies are successful will enter into a contract with my Department to deliver the LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme. In parallel to this each LAG will commence funding workshops for potential project promoters at the Balmoral show. These workshops will continue through the summer to enable calls for applications to open once the programme and business case are approved.","answerHtml":"The Local Action Groups (LAGs) have now selected their Board members and are currently completing application forms to submit to my Department to qualify as the LAG within their area. These applications will be assessed during May and the successful LAG’s will be appointed to develop an Interim Local Rural Development Strategy for their area.
The strategies will be assessed by my officials and LAGs whose strategies are successful will enter into a contract with my Department to deliver the LEADER element of the Rural Development Programme. In parallel to this each LAG will commence funding workshops for potential project promoters at the Balmoral show. These workshops will continue through the summer to enable calls for applications to open once the programme and business case are approved.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044520%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231104","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231104"}},{"id":"231103","reference":"AQW 44519/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-15","answerBy":"2015-04-30","answered":"2015-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether funding through the Rural Development Programme has been allocated to local government; and to outline the amount allocated, broken down by council area.","answerText":"My Department is not allocating any Rural Development Funding to local government.","answerHtml":"My Department is not allocating any Rural Development Funding to local government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044519%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231103","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231103"}},{"id":"231102","reference":"AQW 44518/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-15","answerBy":"2015-04-30","answered":"2015-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development whether monitoring committees, with associated working groups, have been agreed to oversee the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.","answerText":"A Monitoring Committee, with wide-ranging membership, was established to oversee the 2007-13 Rural Development Programme. Its membership and terms of reference have recently been refreshed, and it will take on oversight of the 2014-2020 Programme when this has been approved by the European Commission. As the new Programme progresses, DARD may appoint sub groups to the Monitoring Committee which will focus on particular thematic areas relevant to the Rural Development Programme. Sub groups may allow for the participation of additional stakeholders external to the Monitoring Committee.","answerHtml":"A Monitoring Committee, with wide-ranging membership, was established to oversee the 2007-13 Rural Development Programme. Its membership and terms of reference have recently been refreshed, and it will take on oversight of the 2014-2020 Programme when this has been approved by the European Commission. As the new Programme progresses, DARD may appoint sub groups to the Monitoring Committee which will focus on particular thematic areas relevant to the Rural Development Programme. Sub groups may allow for the participation of additional stakeholders external to the Monitoring Committee.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044518%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231102","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231102"}},{"id":"231101","reference":"AQW 44517/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-15","answerBy":"2015-04-30","answered":"2015-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development when EU funding for the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 was allocated to her Department; and to detail the amount received.","answerText":"The EU funding allocation for the north of Ireland was finally agreed by Defra on 5th November 2014. The EU allocation available to the Rural Development Programme 2014 - 2020 is €228,425,088.\n\nThese funds have not yet been received by my Department. They are held by the European Commission and reimbursed following completed approved expenditure.","answerHtml":"The EU funding allocation for the north of Ireland was finally agreed by Defra on 5th November 2014. The EU allocation available to the Rural Development Programme 2014 - 2020 is €228,425,088.
These funds have not yet been received by my Department. They are held by the European Commission and reimbursed following completed approved expenditure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044517%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231101","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231101"}},{"id":"231026","reference":"AQW 44501/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-14","answerBy":"2015-04-29","answered":"2015-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail (i) the amount of money provided for each Rural Community Transport Partnership in 2015/2016; and (ii) the number of trips, and cost per trip, proposed by each Partnership in their funding application.","answerText":"The table below provides the requested information\n\nRCTP\tFunding Offer 2015/16\tProjected Trips 2015/16\tGrant\nPer trip\tFunding Requested\tCost\nPer trip\nCDM\t£443,085\t56,950\t£7.78\t£623,693\t£10.95\nDDAT\t£323,543\t14,670\t£22.05\t£423,632\t£28.88\nEasilink\t£334,000\t38,000\t£8.79\t£520,000\t£13.68\nFCT\t£350,613\t27,000\t£12.99\t£484,447\t£17.94\nLVRT\t£125,587\t7,920\t£15.86\t£212,431\t£26.82\nNCCT\t£419,122\t50,000\t£8.38\t£620,000\t£12.40\nSACT\t£128,354\t16,450\t£7.80\t£184,644\t£11.22\nSAP\t£310,630\t29,220\t£10.63\t£429,471\t£14.70\nTotal\t£2,434,934\t240,210\t£10.14\t£3,498,319\t£14.56","answerHtml":"The table below provides the requested information
| RCTP | Funding Offer 2015/16 | Projected Trips 2015/16 | Grant Per trip | Funding Requested | Cost Per trip |
| CDM | £443,085 | 56,950 | £7.78 | £623,693 | £10.95 |
| DDAT | £323,543 | 14,670 | £22.05 | £423,632 | £28.88 |
| Easilink | £334,000 | 38,000 | £8.79 | £520,000 | £13.68 |
| FCT | £350,613 | 27,000 | £12.99 | £484,447 | £17.94 |
| LVRT | £125,587 | 7,920 | £15.86 | £212,431 | £26.82 |
| NCCT | £419,122 | 50,000 | £8.38 | £620,000 | £12.40 |
| SACT | £128,354 | 16,450 | £7.80 | £184,644 | £11.22 |
| SAP | £310,630 | 29,220 | £10.63 | £429,471 | £14.70 |
| Total | £2,434,934 | 240,210 | £10.14 | £3,498,319 | £14.56 |
The Rural Transport Fund (RTF) is administered by my Department and has been in existence in Northern Ireland since November 1998. Its primary objective is to support transport services designed to give people in rural areas improved access to work, education, healthcare, shopping and recreational activities and by so doing assists in reducing their social isolation.
The RTF offers support through two primary means of assistance:
Subsidy for new rural services provided by Translink which are economically unviable but socially necessary; and
revenue and capital funding for Rural Community Transport Partnerships that offer a range of complementary services to the public transport network for their members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044500%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231025","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231025"}},{"id":"231024","reference":"AQW 44499/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-14","answerBy":"2015-04-29","answered":"2015-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 43696/11-15, to detail the funding reduction to each Rural Community Transport Partnership for the year 2015/2016, by (i) per cent; and (ii) the raw figures calculated.","answerText":"The table below shows the budget allocation for 2014/15 for RCTP’s. DRD internal reallocations eventually raised the total budget to £3.6m\n\n2014/15 RCTP Funding\nRCTP\tInitial 2014/15 Budget Allocation\tInternal Reallocations\tFinal 2014/15 budget\tInitial 2015/16 Award\tChange\nvs Initial Allocation\t% change vs Initial Allocation\nCDM\t£554,119\t£37,407\t£591,526\t£443,085\t-£111,034\t-20.04%\nDDAT\t£343,951\t£84,352\t£428,303\t£323,543\t-£20,408\t-5.93%\nEasilink\t£414,295\t£107,384\t£521,679\t£334,000\t-£80,295\t-19.38%\nFCT\t£352,151\t£223,097\t£575,248\t£350,613\t-£1,538\t-0.44%\nLVRT\t£144,000\t£51,639\t£195,639\t£125,587\t-£18,413\t-12.79%\nNCCT\t£486,796\t£173,921\t£660,717\t£419,122\t-£67,674\t-13.90%\nSACT\t£155,361\t£58,402\t£213,763\t£128,354\t-£27,007\t-17.38%\nSAP\t£299,328\t£141,315\t£440,643\t£310,630\t£11,302\t3.78%\nTotals\t£2,750,000\t£877,519\t£3,627,519\t£2,434,934\t-£315,066\t-11.46%","answerHtml":"The table below shows the budget allocation for 2014/15 for RCTP’s. DRD internal reallocations eventually raised the total budget to £3.6m
| 2014/15 RCTP Funding | ||||||
| RCTP | Initial 2014/15 Budget Allocation | Internal Reallocations | Final 2014/15 budget | Initial 2015/16 Award | Change vs Initial Allocation | % change vs Initial Allocation |
| CDM | £554,119 | £37,407 | £591,526 | £443,085 | -£111,034 | -20.04% |
| DDAT | £343,951 | £84,352 | £428,303 | £323,543 | -£20,408 | -5.93% |
| Easilink | £414,295 | £107,384 | £521,679 | £334,000 | -£80,295 | -19.38% |
| FCT | £352,151 | £223,097 | £575,248 | £350,613 | -£1,538 | -0.44% |
| LVRT | £144,000 | £51,639 | £195,639 | £125,587 | -£18,413 | -12.79% |
| NCCT | £486,796 | £173,921 | £660,717 | £419,122 | -£67,674 | -13.90% |
| SACT | £155,361 | £58,402 | £213,763 | £128,354 | -£27,007 | -17.38% |
| SAP | £299,328 | £141,315 | £440,643 | £310,630 | £11,302 | 3.78% |
| Totals | £2,750,000 | £877,519 | £3,627,519 | £2,434,934 | -£315,066 | -11.46% |
The draft NI Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 was formally submitted to the European Commission on 14th October 2014. The European Commission observation letter on the draft programme was received on 31 March 2015.
My Department has started the formal adoption process with the aim of having our programme approved as soon as possible, ideally before the summer. I raised the issue recently directly with Commissioner Hogan, asking him to also use his influence to secure swift approval of the new programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044498%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231023"}},{"id":"231022","reference":"AQW 44497/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-14","answerBy":"2015-04-29","answered":"2015-04-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what proportion of rural development funding has been allocated for 2015/2016, broken down by the recipients.","answerText":"I can advise that currently no Rural Development Programme funding has been allocated to recipients for 2015/16. The NI Rural Development Programme 2007 – 2013 is closed for applications and no new funding will be allocated from this Programme.\n\nThe draft Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 was formally submitted to the European Commission on 14th October 2014. The European Commission observation letter on the draft programme was received on 31 March and we have started the formal adoption process with the aim of having our programme approved as soon as possible, ideally before the summer.\n\nOnce formal approval has been granted, the necessary business case approval has been obtained and all required processes have been completed, my Department will commence opening the various measures / schemes and, subject to the application process and scheme terms and conditions, will endeavour to get letters of offer for funding out to recipients as soon as possible.","answerHtml":"I can advise that currently no Rural Development Programme funding has been allocated to recipients for 2015/16. The NI Rural Development Programme 2007 – 2013 is closed for applications and no new funding will be allocated from this Programme.
The draft Rural Development Programme 2014 – 2020 was formally submitted to the European Commission on 14th October 2014. The European Commission observation letter on the draft programme was received on 31 March and we have started the formal adoption process with the aim of having our programme approved as soon as possible, ideally before the summer.
Once formal approval has been granted, the necessary business case approval has been obtained and all required processes have been completed, my Department will commence opening the various measures / schemes and, subject to the application process and scheme terms and conditions, will endeavour to get letters of offer for funding out to recipients as soon as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044497%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=231022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=231022"}},{"id":"230882","reference":"AQW 44415/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-13","answerBy":"2015-04-17","answered":"2015-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 43698/11-15, (i) how the percentage of staff costs to total costs for the year 2013/2014 was calculated for each Rural Transport Fund Partnership; and (ii) to give a breakdown of actual figures used.","answerText":"The percentage costs used were taken from the Audited Annual Accounts 2013/14 that were submitted by each of the Rural Transport Partnerships. The table below shows the breakdown of figures used.\n\n2013/14\nPartnership\tTotal Costs\tTotal Staff Costs\tPercentages\nCDM\t£812,315\t£386,644\t47.6%\nDDAT\t£703,654\t£373,394\t53.1%\nEasilink\t£696,348\t£345,730\t49.6%\nFCT\t£584,891\t£273,795\t46.8%\nLVRT\t£327,427\t£149,605\t45.7%\nNCCT\t£905,718\t£411,958\t45.5%\nSACT\t£256,641\t£102,822\t40.1%\nSAP\t£906,062\t£407,923\t45.0%\nTOTALS\t£5,193,056\t£2,451,871\t47.2%","answerHtml":"The percentage costs used were taken from the Audited Annual Accounts 2013/14 that were submitted by each of the Rural Transport Partnerships. The table below shows the breakdown of figures used.
| 2013/14 | |||
| Partnership | Total Costs | Total Staff Costs | Percentages |
| CDM | £812,315 | £386,644 | 47.6% |
| DDAT | £703,654 | £373,394 | 53.1% |
| Easilink | £696,348 | £345,730 | 49.6% |
| FCT | £584,891 | £273,795 | 46.8% |
| LVRT | £327,427 | £149,605 | 45.7% |
| NCCT | £905,718 | £411,958 | 45.5% |
| SACT | £256,641 | £102,822 | 40.1% |
| SAP | £906,062 | £407,923 | 45.0% |
| TOTALS | £5,193,056 | £2,451,871 | 47.2% |
Social enterprises are in fact eligible to apply to Invest NI’s Innovation Voucher programme and have been so since the introduction of the programme in June 2008.
As stated at http://www.investni.com/innovation-vouchers.html, the programme is open to small and medium-sized enterprises with fewer than 250 employees and either an annual turnover not exceeding €50million or balance sheet total not exceeding €43million. Medium-sized enterprises should also not have received assistance through Invest NI’s R&D Programme in the past 5 years. Companies in the transport and agricultural sectors are excluded in line with State Aid guidelines.
A number of social enterprises have been awarded Innovation Vouchers and benefitted from the expertise offered by Universities and Colleges throughout Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Application to the Innovation Voucher programme is a competitive process and as with all applying enterprises, priority is given to those commercial and social enterprises that demonstrate most potential to further develop their business.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044413%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230880","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230880"}},{"id":"230878","reference":"AQW 44411/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-13","answerBy":"2015-04-28","answered":"2015-04-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail (i) the money from his Department which was set aside for the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) in 2013/2014; (ii) the amount received by the RTF, including money from monitoring rounds; (iii) the amount of allocated funding for 2015/2016; and (iii) whether this amount represents a 33 per cent reduction.","answerText":"In 2013/14 the baseline budget for Rural Community Transport was £2.75m.\n\nIn 2013/14 the total amount of grant paid was the baseline budget of £2.75m. Following internal reallocations linked to monitoring rounds, a further £680,000 was awarded giving total for the year of £3.437m.\n\nFor 2015/16 the level of funding available is £2.43m and this is before any monitoring rounds.\n\nThe level of funding available for 2015/16 represents an 11% reduction in budget against the previous year’s baseline.","answerHtml":"In 2013/14 the baseline budget for Rural Community Transport was £2.75m.
In 2013/14 the total amount of grant paid was the baseline budget of £2.75m. Following internal reallocations linked to monitoring rounds, a further £680,000 was awarded giving total for the year of £3.437m.
For 2015/16 the level of funding available is £2.43m and this is before any monitoring rounds.
The level of funding available for 2015/16 represents an 11% reduction in budget against the previous year’s baseline.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044411%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230878","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230878"}},{"id":"230874","reference":"AQW 44408/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-13","answerBy":"2015-04-28","answered":"2015-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 44157/11-15, to provide detailed examples, within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, from the strategy which his Department will use to support the narrative given in his previous answer.","answerText":"The Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia Signature Project has three workstreams: (i) awareness raising, information and support; (ii) training; and (iii) short breaks, respite and support to carers.\n\nThese three work streams, which are at an early stage of development, are being taken forward on a regional basis and are intended to benefit people with dementia and their carers across Northern Ireland, including those living within the Northern Trust area.\n\nThe awareness raising, information and support workstream will promote a better understanding among the general public and among healthcare professionals of the benefits of early diagnosis, improved diagnosis rates, and uptake of early intervention supports. It will focus on providing lifestyle and health advice and will seek to reduce the stigma and isolation associated with dementia.\n\nThe training workstream will develop and embed a knowledge and skills framework for dementia to make a lasting change to the quality of dementia care. The project will be directed at HSC staff, employers, educators, and professional bodies as well as carers.\n\nThe short breaks, respite and support to carers workstream will develop a range of innovative alternatives to current support options for people with dementia and their carers.","answerHtml":"The Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia Signature Project has three workstreams: (i) awareness raising, information and support; (ii) training; and (iii) short breaks, respite and support to carers.
These three work streams, which are at an early stage of development, are being taken forward on a regional basis and are intended to benefit people with dementia and their carers across Northern Ireland, including those living within the Northern Trust area.
The awareness raising, information and support workstream will promote a better understanding among the general public and among healthcare professionals of the benefits of early diagnosis, improved diagnosis rates, and uptake of early intervention supports. It will focus on providing lifestyle and health advice and will seek to reduce the stigma and isolation associated with dementia.
The training workstream will develop and embed a knowledge and skills framework for dementia to make a lasting change to the quality of dementia care. The project will be directed at HSC staff, employers, educators, and professional bodies as well as carers.
The short breaks, respite and support to carers workstream will develop a range of innovative alternatives to current support options for people with dementia and their carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044408%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230874"}},{"id":"230873","reference":"AQW 44407/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-04-13","answerBy":"2015-04-28","answered":"2015-04-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 44211/11-15, to detail (i) how many applications were received; (ii) how many of these applications were withdrawn throughout the admissions process; and (iii) to outline the reasons why applications were withdrawn.","answerText":"(i) A total of 23,614 applications were considered during Stage 1 of the 2015 Pre-school admissions process.\n\n(ii) An additional 51 applications were received but withdrawn before they could be considered for placing.\n\n(iii) The Education Authority has advised that only the Western Region records reasons for the withdrawal of applications. In 2015 one application was withdrawn as the child had moved out of the jurisdiction.","answerHtml":"(i) A total of 23,614 applications were considered during Stage 1 of the 2015 Pre-school admissions process.
(ii) An additional 51 applications were received but withdrawn before they could be considered for placing.
(iii) The Education Authority has advised that only the Western Region records reasons for the withdrawal of applications. In 2015 one application was withdrawn as the child had moved out of the jurisdiction.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044407%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230873"}},{"id":"230070","reference":"AQW 44316/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-27","answerBy":"2015-04-15","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development which categories of non-domestic customers will be exempt from increases to water charges from April 2015; and to detail the criteria for exemption.","answerText":"The 2015/16 tariffs for water and sewerage services apply to all non-domestic customers. There are no exemptions for different categories of non-domestic customers.\n\nThe setting of limits by which charges are allowed to increase (which were agreed as part of Price Control process) and approval of the annual charges are matters for the Regulator.","answerHtml":"The 2015/16 tariffs for water and sewerage services apply to all non-domestic customers. There are no exemptions for different categories of non-domestic customers.
The setting of limits by which charges are allowed to increase (which were agreed as part of Price Control process) and approval of the annual charges are matters for the Regulator.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044316%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230070"}},{"id":"230069","reference":"AQW 44315/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-27","answerBy":"2015-04-15","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development how organisations in the community and voluntary sector will be impacted by increases to water charges.","answerText":"The 2015/16 tariffs for water and sewerage services apply to all non-domestic customers including voluntary organisations and charities. This increase will depend on whether the relevant organisations are metered or unmeasured. The average increase in non-domestic charges is 2.4%. Despite this increase, customers will still be paying an average of 5.6 % less than they were in 2012.\n\nA typical unmeasured bill will increase annually by approximately £16, while the smallest measured (metered) bill will increase by £4. The largest measured customer will see an annual increase of £45.\n\nIt is important to remember that the Executive continues to subsidise non-domestic customers’ charges by providing a domestic allowance for measured consumers and a 50% discount for unmeasured consumers.","answerHtml":"The 2015/16 tariffs for water and sewerage services apply to all non-domestic customers including voluntary organisations and charities. This increase will depend on whether the relevant organisations are metered or unmeasured. The average increase in non-domestic charges is 2.4%. Despite this increase, customers will still be paying an average of 5.6 % less than they were in 2012.
A typical unmeasured bill will increase annually by approximately £16, while the smallest measured (metered) bill will increase by £4. The largest measured customer will see an annual increase of £45.
It is important to remember that the Executive continues to subsidise non-domestic customers’ charges by providing a domestic allowance for measured consumers and a 50% discount for unmeasured consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044315%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230069","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230069"}},{"id":"230068","reference":"AQW 44314/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-27","answerBy":"2015-04-15","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether his Department has plans for a subsidy scheme to support non-domestic properties facing disproportionate increases to water charges.","answerText":"The increase in non-domestic charges this financial year is on average 2.4%. This is the first increase in water and sewerage charges in three years. In the previous two consecutive years, NI Water has reduced all non domestic charges. Non domestic charges were reduced on average by 2.5% in 2013/14 and then by a further 4% in 2014/15.\n\nSince the Executive agreed to the extension of water and sewerage charging to all non-domestic consumers from April 2008, charges for water and sewerage services have been reviewed annually. Any revisions must be determined in accordance with a process overseen by the Utility Regulator which protects customer interests.\n\nIt is important to remember that the Executive continues to subsidise non-domestic customers’ charges by providing a domestic allowance for measured consumers and a 50% discount for unmeasured consumers.","answerHtml":"The increase in non-domestic charges this financial year is on average 2.4%. This is the first increase in water and sewerage charges in three years. In the previous two consecutive years, NI Water has reduced all non domestic charges. Non domestic charges were reduced on average by 2.5% in 2013/14 and then by a further 4% in 2014/15.
Since the Executive agreed to the extension of water and sewerage charging to all non-domestic consumers from April 2008, charges for water and sewerage services have been reviewed annually. Any revisions must be determined in accordance with a process overseen by the Utility Regulator which protects customer interests.
It is important to remember that the Executive continues to subsidise non-domestic customers’ charges by providing a domestic allowance for measured consumers and a 50% discount for unmeasured consumers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044314%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230068","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230068"}},{"id":"230059","reference":"AQW 44312/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-27","answerBy":"2015-04-15","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether the Executive subsidy, which off-sets water charges for domestic customers, will remain in place following the extension of the Programme for Government to include 2015/2016.","answerText":"The funding of water and sewerage services is a cross cutting strategic issue with significant public expenditure implications. The Executive has given a commitment that, for households, it will ensure no additional water charges during this Programme for Government.\n\nI brought a paper to the Executive in November 2012, which set out issues and risks associated with the governance and funding of water and sewerage services, and the Executive remitted these issues to the Budget Review Group (BRG) for consideration. The BRG’s consideration of what are complex issues is ongoing.\n\nIn the meantime, the legislation which permits the Executive to provide subsidy for water and sewerage services (in lieu of funding by charging) expires in March 2016. I instructed my officials to amend the legislation to extend the Executive’s power to provide a subsidy to NI Water until March 2017 and to take the power to extend this further by subordinate legislation. This enabling power does not pre-judge Executive consideration of the funding of NI Water in that period, but, will ensure that there is certainty about funding for NI Water’s operating expenditure while the Executive considers those future funding arrangements.","answerHtml":"The funding of water and sewerage services is a cross cutting strategic issue with significant public expenditure implications. The Executive has given a commitment that, for households, it will ensure no additional water charges during this Programme for Government.
I brought a paper to the Executive in November 2012, which set out issues and risks associated with the governance and funding of water and sewerage services, and the Executive remitted these issues to the Budget Review Group (BRG) for consideration. The BRG’s consideration of what are complex issues is ongoing.
In the meantime, the legislation which permits the Executive to provide subsidy for water and sewerage services (in lieu of funding by charging) expires in March 2016. I instructed my officials to amend the legislation to extend the Executive’s power to provide a subsidy to NI Water until March 2017 and to take the power to extend this further by subordinate legislation. This enabling power does not pre-judge Executive consideration of the funding of NI Water in that period, but, will ensure that there is certainty about funding for NI Water’s operating expenditure while the Executive considers those future funding arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044312%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230059","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230059"}},{"id":"230057","reference":"AQW 44310/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-27","answerBy":"2015-04-15","answered":"2015-04-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the revised Programme for Government will be published.","answerText":"Work on an extension to the current Programme for Government, to include the 2015/16 year, is currently underway. We intend to bring forward an Executive Paper and following Executive approval and Committee notification, the revised Programme for Government will be published.","answerHtml":"Work on an extension to the current Programme for Government, to include the 2015/16 year, is currently underway. We intend to bring forward an Executive Paper and following Executive approval and Committee notification, the revised Programme for Government will be published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044310%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=230057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=230057"}},{"id":"229926","reference":"AQW 44270/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-26","answerBy":"2015-04-14","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what contingency plans his Department has developed to address the removal of access to vital services for children, and their families, who currently benefit from Early Years funded projects.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to only those groups that were identified as in need at that time.\n\nThe Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nI have ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all current recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of DE.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to only those groups that were identified as in need at that time.
The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
I have ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all current recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of DE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044270%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229926","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229926"}},{"id":"229925","reference":"AQW 44269/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-26","answerBy":"2015-04-14","answered":"2015-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the correct staff-to-child ratio for children up to 12 years of age; and how the Early Years funding cut is likely to impact upon adequate staff cover within funded projects.","answerText":"All settings which provide care for children under the age of 12 (including groups which offer Pre-School Education Programme places) are required to register with the Health and Social Care Trusts under the Children (NI) Order 1995. DHSSPS officials have confirmed that the staff-to-child ratios for settings working with children under the age of 12 are outlined in Volume two of the guidance to the Order and are:\n\n0 to 2 years = 1:3\n\n2 to 3 years = 1:4\n\n3 to 12 = 1:8\n\nRegardless of group size, at least 2 members of staff should be on duty at all times.\n\nIt is therefore a matter for each group, under the terms of their registration certificate, issued by the Health and Social Care Trusts, to ensure that the specified ratios are adhered to.\n\nThe Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf under annual Service Level Agreement. Awards may be made towards a contribution towards the salary costs of the group or to meet a deficit between income and predicted expenditure.\n\nThe Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything, hence my decision to reduce the funding for the Early Years Fund.\n\nI have endeavoured to minimise the impact to the Early Years Fund as far as possible by ensuring that Early Years Fund funding is available to enable all current recipients to receive continued funding until 31st August 2015.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of the Department of Education.","answerHtml":"All settings which provide care for children under the age of 12 (including groups which offer Pre-School Education Programme places) are required to register with the Health and Social Care Trusts under the Children (NI) Order 1995. DHSSPS officials have confirmed that the staff-to-child ratios for settings working with children under the age of 12 are outlined in Volume two of the guidance to the Order and are:
0 to 2 years = 1:3
2 to 3 years = 1:4
3 to 12 = 1:8
Regardless of group size, at least 2 members of staff should be on duty at all times.
It is therefore a matter for each group, under the terms of their registration certificate, issued by the Health and Social Care Trusts, to ensure that the specified ratios are adhered to.
The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf under annual Service Level Agreement. Awards may be made towards a contribution towards the salary costs of the group or to meet a deficit between income and predicted expenditure.
The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything, hence my decision to reduce the funding for the Early Years Fund.
I have endeavoured to minimise the impact to the Early Years Fund as far as possible by ensuring that Early Years Fund funding is available to enable all current recipients to receive continued funding until 31st August 2015.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of the Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044269%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229925","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229925"}},{"id":"229924","reference":"AQW 44268/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-26","answerBy":"2015-04-14","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how organisations who are funded by Early Years, and who do not have funding reserves, will be assisted financially in the likely event of having to make staff redundancies.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf under annual Service Level Agreement. Letters of Offer were made by EYO to eligible groups on an annual basis, based on each group’s circumstances. Awards were made in some cases as a contribution towards the salary costs of the group and in others to meet a deficit between income and predicted expenditure.\n\nEYO has confirmed that the current Letters of Offer with groups (which expired on 31st March 2015) make clear that EYO has no responsibility for commitments made by groups beyond 31 March 2015.\n\nI have however ensured that funding is available to enable all current recipients to receive continued funding until 31st August 2015. I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However the Early Years Fund is effectively a “closed” fund and any alternative funding will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of DE.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) on DE’s behalf under annual Service Level Agreement. Letters of Offer were made by EYO to eligible groups on an annual basis, based on each group’s circumstances. Awards were made in some cases as a contribution towards the salary costs of the group and in others to meet a deficit between income and predicted expenditure.
EYO has confirmed that the current Letters of Offer with groups (which expired on 31st March 2015) make clear that EYO has no responsibility for commitments made by groups beyond 31 March 2015.
I have however ensured that funding is available to enable all current recipients to receive continued funding until 31st August 2015. I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However the Early Years Fund is effectively a “closed” fund and any alternative funding will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of DE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044268%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229924"}},{"id":"229923","reference":"AQW 44267/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-26","answerBy":"2015-04-14","answered":"2015-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many (i) children; and (ii) families currently benefit from Early Years funded organisations in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The DE Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years, the Organisation for Young Children (EYO). According to monitoring information supplied to DE officials by EYO in relation to 2014/15, 16 of the funded organisations are located in East Londonderry Constituency, in which 398 children are benefiting from services supported by the Fund. I am advised that information on the corresponding number of families is not held by EYO.","answerHtml":"The DE Early Years Fund is administered by Early Years, the Organisation for Young Children (EYO). According to monitoring information supplied to DE officials by EYO in relation to 2014/15, 16 of the funded organisations are located in East Londonderry Constituency, in which 398 children are benefiting from services supported by the Fund. I am advised that information on the corresponding number of families is not held by EYO.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044267%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229923","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229923"}},{"id":"229922","reference":"AQW 44266/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-26","answerBy":"2015-04-14","answered":"2015-04-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the public bodies and relevant stakeholders who were consulted with, prior to his Department’s announcement of cuts to Early Years Funding.","answerText":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nMy Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education.\n\nOver 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans. In reaching final decisions on the 2015-16 Budget allocations, I:\n\nFocused on protecting frontline services as far as possible, promoting equality and raising education standards;\n\nSecured the continuation of specific programmes that reflect the Department’s statutory responsibilities;\n\nContinued to tackle social disadvantage; and\n\nEnsured that support for children with Special Education Needs is prioritised.\n\nOn the 13th January 2015 there was an assembly debate specifically on the Education budget. The majority of MLAs voted to protect school budgets as a priority. During this debate I pointed out that education was much broader than the classroom.\n\nI have protected the Sure Start budget as far as possible so that the original reduction of £2m has been reduced to £1m. The reduction of £1m leaves a Sure Start budget of £24.7m for 2015/16. I was also able to re-instate fully the budget for the Pre School Education Programme. I have also ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all recipient groups in the Early Years Fund to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.\n\nDespite the difficult budgetary position I am continuing to invest over £216m in early years education services to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
My Department’s 2015-16 budget consultation process invited all stakeholders within the Education sector to express their views on the 2015-16 Budget for Education.
Over 23,000 responses to the consultation were received, which provided me with a significant basis of evidence to inform my final 2015-16 Budget spending plans. In reaching final decisions on the 2015-16 Budget allocations, I:
Focused on protecting frontline services as far as possible, promoting equality and raising education standards;
Secured the continuation of specific programmes that reflect the Department’s statutory responsibilities;
Continued to tackle social disadvantage; and
Ensured that support for children with Special Education Needs is prioritised.
On the 13th January 2015 there was an assembly debate specifically on the Education budget. The majority of MLAs voted to protect school budgets as a priority. During this debate I pointed out that education was much broader than the classroom.
I have protected the Sure Start budget as far as possible so that the original reduction of £2m has been reduced to £1m. The reduction of £1m leaves a Sure Start budget of £24.7m for 2015/16. I was also able to re-instate fully the budget for the Pre School Education Programme. I have also ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all recipient groups in the Early Years Fund to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.
Despite the difficult budgetary position I am continuing to invest over £216m in early years education services to ensure that key services are protected as far as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044266%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229922","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229922"}},{"id":"229830","reference":"AQW 44215/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-25","answerBy":"2015-04-13","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the role of the Early Years Organisation, and associated bodies, in driving forward improvement in education provision through (i) raising standards; (ii) supporting all children to reach their full potential; and (iii) narrowing the performance gap at an early age.","answerText":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) administers the Early Years Fund (EYF) on behalf of my Department under Service Level Agreement. They fulfil a management and accountability role in respect of the funds allocated and provide additional support and guidance to those groups in receipt of funding to ensure that quality standards are raised.\n\nThe Early Years Fund was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to only those groups that were identified as in need at that time.\n\nThe current criteria for receipt of EYF funding, which the eligible groups must demonstrate to EYO are to;\n\nProvide direct early years care and education to children;\n\nProvide a service in areas of low provision, disadvantaged areas or where the service is considered critical for children;\n\nEnsure inclusion and diversity; and\n\nEnsure a standard of excellence in relation to quality.\n\nAny new Department of Education funding to support the Early Years sector will be strategically aligned to the Department’s framework for Early Education and Learning - “Learning to Learn”. Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families.","answerHtml":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) administers the Early Years Fund (EYF) on behalf of my Department under Service Level Agreement. They fulfil a management and accountability role in respect of the funds allocated and provide additional support and guidance to those groups in receipt of funding to ensure that quality standards are raised.
The Early Years Fund was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to only those groups that were identified as in need at that time.
The current criteria for receipt of EYF funding, which the eligible groups must demonstrate to EYO are to;
Provide direct early years care and education to children;
Provide a service in areas of low provision, disadvantaged areas or where the service is considered critical for children;
Ensure inclusion and diversity; and
Ensure a standard of excellence in relation to quality.
Any new Department of Education funding to support the Early Years sector will be strategically aligned to the Department’s framework for Early Education and Learning - “Learning to Learn”. Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044215%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229830","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229830"}},{"id":"229829","reference":"AQW 44214/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-25","answerBy":"2015-04-13","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what impact the cut to Early Years funding will have on his Department’s Programme for Government Commitment 43, to ensure that at least one year of pre-school education is available to every family that wants it.","answerText":"I remain committed to ensuring that every child whose parents want it will have a funded pre-school place within the Pre-School Education Programme. To that end I have allocated sufficient funding to Education and Library Boards to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. I note that just over 1600 of the places are provided by groups in which some salaries are currently supported by the Early Years Fund. These places will continue to be funded under the Pre School Education Programme in the usual way.","answerHtml":"I remain committed to ensuring that every child whose parents want it will have a funded pre-school place within the Pre-School Education Programme. To that end I have allocated sufficient funding to Education and Library Boards to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year. I note that just over 1600 of the places are provided by groups in which some salaries are currently supported by the Early Years Fund. These places will continue to be funded under the Pre School Education Programme in the usual way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044214%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229829","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229829"}},{"id":"229828","reference":"AQW 44213/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-25","answerBy":"2015-04-13","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of pre-school places provided by the (i) statutory; (ii) voluntary; and (iii) private/independent, sectors in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Department of Education funded pre-school places\n\nSector\t2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\nStatutory\t14,613\t14,804\t15,047\nVoluntary\t7,453\t7,319\t7,516\nPrivate\t957\t1,041\t1,105\n\nSource – 2014 School Census","answerHtml":"Department of Education funded pre-school places
| Sector | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 |
| Statutory | 14,613 | 14,804 | 15,047 |
| Voluntary | 7,453 | 7,319 | 7,516 |
| Private | 957 | 1,041 | 1,105 |
Source – 2014 School Census
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044213%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229828"}},{"id":"229826","reference":"AQW 44211/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-25","answerBy":"2015-04-13","answered":"2015-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the capacity of current pre-school provision, including the number of available places, to deal with growing demand.","answerText":"The Executive’s Programme for Government Commitment is to provide at least one year of pre-school education for every child whose parents want it. During the 2014/15 admissions process 99.9% of children, whose parents engaged with the admissions process to the end, obtained a funded pre-school place.\n\nThe Pre-School Education Advisory Group (PEAG) in each Education and Library Board (ELB) is responsible for the planning and provision of sufficient pre-school places in their area and I have allocated sufficient funding to meet the projected need for pre-school places across the north for the 2015-16 academic year.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Programme for Government Commitment is to provide at least one year of pre-school education for every child whose parents want it. During the 2014/15 admissions process 99.9% of children, whose parents engaged with the admissions process to the end, obtained a funded pre-school place.
The Pre-School Education Advisory Group (PEAG) in each Education and Library Board (ELB) is responsible for the planning and provision of sufficient pre-school places in their area and I have allocated sufficient funding to meet the projected need for pre-school places across the north for the 2015-16 academic year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044211%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229826","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229826"}},{"id":"229824","reference":"AQW 44209/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-25","answerBy":"2015-04-13","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what impact his Department’s cut to the Early Years fund is likely to have in rural areas where organisations receive their sole, or majority, funding from the Early Years fund.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund (EYF), (administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children) was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to only those groups that were in need of support at that time.\n\nGroups currently supported by the Early Years Fund which are also offering funded pre-school places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) will continue to be funded through the PSEP. In accordance with the Programme for Government commitment to ensure that at least one year of pre-school is available to every family that wants it, I have allocated sufficient funding to Education and Library Boards to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year.\n\nThe Pre-School Advisory Groups will monitor the situation and take any necessary action to ensure that a place continues to be available for every child whose parent wants it.\n\nThe Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.\n\nI have ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015. I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of DE.\n\nI am aware that many programmes have made a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities, however, it is essential to provide stability to the education budget and the education service moving forward and therefore maintaining all core services at current levels was simply not deliverable.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund (EYF), (administered by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children) was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to only those groups that were in need of support at that time.
Groups currently supported by the Early Years Fund which are also offering funded pre-school places within the Pre-School Education Programme (PSEP) will continue to be funded through the PSEP. In accordance with the Programme for Government commitment to ensure that at least one year of pre-school is available to every family that wants it, I have allocated sufficient funding to Education and Library Boards to meet the projected need for pre-school places for children in their final pre-school year.
The Pre-School Advisory Groups will monitor the situation and take any necessary action to ensure that a place continues to be available for every child whose parent wants it.
The Executive’s Budget has been reduced by the Westminster Government by £1.5bn over the last five years. As a direct result of this reduction there is significantly reduced money to spend on frontline services such as Education. I have taken every action possible to protect Education funding and those frontline services within the Department of Education’s (DE) remit. However, it is simply impossible to protect everything.
I have ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015. I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However any such fund will have to be open to all applicants, not just current recipients, and reflect the policy priorities of DE.
I am aware that many programmes have made a positive impact on the lives of individuals and communities, however, it is essential to provide stability to the education budget and the education service moving forward and therefore maintaining all core services at current levels was simply not deliverable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044209%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229824","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229824"}},{"id":"229537","reference":"AQW 44157/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-24","answerBy":"2015-04-10","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 43490/11-15, to detail how people living with dementia, their families and carers, within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, will benefit from the £6.25m funding provided through the joint Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative; and how the three work streams will be taken forward within the Trust.","answerText":"The Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative will lead to a significant improvement in the quality of dementia care for people in Northern Ireland, including those living in the Northern Trust area. It will support people living with dementia to maintain their independence and live well with the condition for as long as possible, and will also result in an improved understanding of dementia in wider society, with benefits in primary and secondary prevention and reduced stigma.\n\nThe initiative aims to ensure that people living with dementia and their carers will be better informed and have greater access to support and advice on care pathways, and feel empowered to seek that support as required. It will create a more confident and competent workforce and take steps to ensure on-going workforce development by employers, educators and professional bodies, while also enhancing the carers’ understanding of the condition, strengthening their coping mechanisms and building confidence.\n\nThe initiative will also develop a range of innovative alternatives to institutional services and create greater choice and access to support options for people with dementia and their carers. By building a network of supports, carers will be enabled to continue in their role as carers for longer.\n\nThe three workstreams are being taken forward on a regional basis by a project team working in close collaboration with all five Health and Social Care Trusts, and reporting to a Programme Board chaired by my Department.","answerHtml":"The Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative will lead to a significant improvement in the quality of dementia care for people in Northern Ireland, including those living in the Northern Trust area. It will support people living with dementia to maintain their independence and live well with the condition for as long as possible, and will also result in an improved understanding of dementia in wider society, with benefits in primary and secondary prevention and reduced stigma.
The initiative aims to ensure that people living with dementia and their carers will be better informed and have greater access to support and advice on care pathways, and feel empowered to seek that support as required. It will create a more confident and competent workforce and take steps to ensure on-going workforce development by employers, educators and professional bodies, while also enhancing the carers’ understanding of the condition, strengthening their coping mechanisms and building confidence.
The initiative will also develop a range of innovative alternatives to institutional services and create greater choice and access to support options for people with dementia and their carers. By building a network of supports, carers will be enabled to continue in their role as carers for longer.
The three workstreams are being taken forward on a regional basis by a project team working in close collaboration with all five Health and Social Care Trusts, and reporting to a Programme Board chaired by my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044157%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229537","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229537"}},{"id":"229536","reference":"AQW 44156/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-24","answerBy":"2015-04-10","answered":"2015-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what communication they have had with the Racial Equality Unit regarding the Minority Ethnic Development Fund, including the date and outcome of the last meeting.","answerText":"Over recent years, the Minority Ethnic Development Fund has played a crucial role in our efforts towards achieving racial equality and good race relations. Groups have now been notified of funding for 2015/16. We receive regular updates from the Racial Equality Unit on this issue.","answerHtml":"Over recent years, the Minority Ethnic Development Fund has played a crucial role in our efforts towards achieving racial equality and good race relations. Groups have now been notified of funding for 2015/16. We receive regular updates from the Racial Equality Unit on this issue.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044156%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229536","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229536"}},{"id":"229535","reference":"AQW 44155/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-24","answerBy":"2015-04-10","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what communication his Department has had with neighbourhood renewal projects in East Londonderry in respect of funding; and to detail how projects are being assessed to determine need and impacts so that communities with highest levels of deprivation will be supported via projects.","answerText":"My Department wrote to project promoters of all existing Neighbourhood Renewal projects in June 2014 and December 2014 to confirm funding would continue to receive Neighbourhood Renewal funding up to 31 March 2015. Applications for further funding were subsequently sought and received. As advised in my earlier response to AQW 44067/11-15, each application was subject to a thorough assessment and appraisal process in line with the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation and Managing Public Money NI. All eighteen were successful and will receive funding for 2015/16. I understand that officials have been in contact with each applicant and advised them of the outcome.\n\nFrom 1April 2016, subject to the successful passing of relevant legislation, under the Reform of Local Government, the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council will be responsible for urban regeneration and community development and will take all decisions regarding funding from that date. I and my officials are in close, regular, contact with the new councils to help ensure business continuity.","answerHtml":"My Department wrote to project promoters of all existing Neighbourhood Renewal projects in June 2014 and December 2014 to confirm funding would continue to receive Neighbourhood Renewal funding up to 31 March 2015. Applications for further funding were subsequently sought and received. As advised in my earlier response to AQW 44067/11-15, each application was subject to a thorough assessment and appraisal process in line with the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation and Managing Public Money NI. All eighteen were successful and will receive funding for 2015/16. I understand that officials have been in contact with each applicant and advised them of the outcome.
From 1April 2016, subject to the successful passing of relevant legislation, under the Reform of Local Government, the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council will be responsible for urban regeneration and community development and will take all decisions regarding funding from that date. I and my officials are in close, regular, contact with the new councils to help ensure business continuity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044155%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229535","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229535"}},{"id":"229534","reference":"AQW 44154/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-24","answerBy":"2015-04-10","answered":"2015-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when the Public Health Agency’s work plan 2015/16 will be published.","answerText":"The need for the Public Health Agency to agree a savings plan will impact on their ability to finalise the 2015/16 Annual Business Plan and have it approved by the Department. Publication will occur as soon as possible after this process.","answerHtml":"The need for the Public Health Agency to agree a savings plan will impact on their ability to finalise the 2015/16 Annual Business Plan and have it approved by the Department. Publication will occur as soon as possible after this process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044154%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229534","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229534"}},{"id":"229337","reference":"AQW 44071/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-23","answerBy":"2015-04-09","answered":"2015-08-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the consultation report on the Racial Equality Strategy will be published.","answerText":"The consultation document was published in June 2014 for a 16 week public consultation exercise.\n\nThe analysis of responses submitted during the public consultation has now been completed.\n\nWe have considered and commented on a draft strategy that takes account of the consultation responses. This is being circulated to other Executive Departments before going to the Executive for final agreement and publication.","answerHtml":"The consultation document was published in June 2014 for a 16 week public consultation exercise.
The analysis of responses submitted during the public consultation has now been completed.
We have considered and commented on a draft strategy that takes account of the consultation responses. This is being circulated to other Executive Departments before going to the Executive for final agreement and publication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044071%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229337","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229337"}},{"id":"229336","reference":"AQW 44070/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-23","answerBy":"2015-04-09","answered":"2015-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety why his Department has not provided any funding for research into sexual violence and abuse, including strategies which address this directly, either through, or independent of, the Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy, since 2011.","answerText":"Since 2011, my Department has directed all available resources for tackling sexual violence and abuse to the provision and enhancement of information, advice and support services for victims and their families.\n\nMy Department jointly funds The Rowan, the UK’s first purpose built Sexual Assault Referral Centre. The Rowan provides services in the aftermath of a sexual assault, rape or an incident involving childhood abuse and provides services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.\n\nThe Government’s 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline is co-funded by my Department. The Helpline provides immediate advice and support to all victims and also signposts to a wide range of other specialised services.\n\nMy Department also provides core funding to support the work of Nexus NI. Nexus responds to the needs of those who have experienced sexual violence and abuse through the provision of counselling services.","answerHtml":"Since 2011, my Department has directed all available resources for tackling sexual violence and abuse to the provision and enhancement of information, advice and support services for victims and their families.
My Department jointly funds The Rowan, the UK’s first purpose built Sexual Assault Referral Centre. The Rowan provides services in the aftermath of a sexual assault, rape or an incident involving childhood abuse and provides services 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
The Government’s 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline is co-funded by my Department. The Helpline provides immediate advice and support to all victims and also signposts to a wide range of other specialised services.
My Department also provides core funding to support the work of Nexus NI. Nexus responds to the needs of those who have experienced sexual violence and abuse through the provision of counselling services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044070%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229336","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229336"}},{"id":"229335","reference":"AQW 44069/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-23","answerBy":"2015-04-09","answered":"2015-06-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many employees of Minority Ethnic Development funded projects are currently on protective notice pending the outcome of the Minority Ethnic Development fund 2015/16 application process.","answerText":"Whilst the Minority Ethnic Development Fund provides important support to the sector we would not be able to provide details as to what arrangements individuals groups have in place.\n\nFunding allocations have now been made for the 2015/16 Minority Ethnic Development Fund and all applicants were informed in early May. Successful groups can expect funding to be backdated to the beginning of the financial year on proof of spend thus minimising any financial impact on them.","answerHtml":"Whilst the Minority Ethnic Development Fund provides important support to the sector we would not be able to provide details as to what arrangements individuals groups have in place.
Funding allocations have now been made for the 2015/16 Minority Ethnic Development Fund and all applicants were informed in early May. Successful groups can expect funding to be backdated to the beginning of the financial year on proof of spend thus minimising any financial impact on them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044069%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229335","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229335"}},{"id":"229334","reference":"AQW 44068/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-23","answerBy":"2015-04-09","answered":"2015-06-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many Minority Ethnic Development funded groups are operating without financial reserves, and therefore at risk of issuing redundancies due to the delay in Minority Ethnic Development Funding for 2015/16.","answerText":"Whilst the Minority Ethnic Development Fund provides important support to the sector we would not be able to provide details as to what arrangements individual groups have in place in the daily management of their affairs.\n\nFunding allocations have now been made for the 2015-16 Minority Ethnic Development Fund and all applicants were informed in early May. Successful groups can expect funding to be backdated to the beginning of the financial year on proof of spend thus minimising any financial impact on them.","answerHtml":"Whilst the Minority Ethnic Development Fund provides important support to the sector we would not be able to provide details as to what arrangements individual groups have in place in the daily management of their affairs.
Funding allocations have now been made for the 2015-16 Minority Ethnic Development Fund and all applicants were informed in early May. Successful groups can expect funding to be backdated to the beginning of the financial year on proof of spend thus minimising any financial impact on them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044068%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229334","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229334"}},{"id":"229333","reference":"AQW 44067/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-23","answerBy":"2015-04-09","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 43283/11-15, for his assessment of the impacts of Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry.","answerText":"My Department has received eighteen applications from organisations that provide services within the Coleraine and Limavady Neighbourhood Renewal Areas. Each application has been subject to a thorough assessment and appraisal process in line with the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation and Managing Public Money NI. The outcome of which is that all will receive funding for 2015/16. I understand that officials have been in contact and advised each of the organisations of the outcome.","answerHtml":"My Department has received eighteen applications from organisations that provide services within the Coleraine and Limavady Neighbourhood Renewal Areas. Each application has been subject to a thorough assessment and appraisal process in line with the Northern Ireland Guide to Expenditure Appraisal and Evaluation and Managing Public Money NI. The outcome of which is that all will receive funding for 2015/16. I understand that officials have been in contact and advised each of the organisations of the outcome.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044067%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229333","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229333"}},{"id":"229222","reference":"AQW 44011/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-20","answerBy":"2015-04-08","answered":"2015-04-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 43005/11-15, whether the consultation response was made accessible; and whether there were any definitive outcomes for a future Forum for civic engagement.","answerText":"A total of 60 written responses were received to the consultation on the review of the Civic Forum. The responses have been available to view from the OFMDFM website at:\n\nhttp://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/making-government-work/civic-forum-review/civic-forum-your-views/making-government-work-your-views-written-responses.htm\n\nThe compact civic advisory panel as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement is intended to provide a basis for engaging with civil society on key social, cultural and economic issues and to advise the Executive.","answerHtml":"A total of 60 written responses were received to the consultation on the review of the Civic Forum. The responses have been available to view from the OFMDFM website at:
http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/making-government-work/civic-forum-review/civic-forum-your-views/making-government-work-your-views-written-responses.htm
The compact civic advisory panel as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement is intended to provide a basis for engaging with civil society on key social, cultural and economic issues and to advise the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044011%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229222","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229222"}},{"id":"229221","reference":"AQW 44010/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-20","answerBy":"2015-04-08","answered":"2015-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 43561/11-15, to outline his Department’s policy priorities for 2015/16.","answerText":"Any new Department of Education funding to support Early Years will be strategically aligned to the Department’s “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families.","answerHtml":"Any new Department of Education funding to support Early Years will be strategically aligned to the Department’s “Learning to Learn” (a framework for Early Years Education and Learning). Alignment will ensure improved outcomes for young children and their families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044010%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229221","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229221"}},{"id":"229220","reference":"AQW 44009/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-20","answerBy":"2015-04-08","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the last meeting of the Northern Steering Group of the Social Investment Fund took place; and whether the minutes of meetings are accessible.","answerText":"The last Northern Zone Steering Group meeting was held on 2 February 2015. Minutes of Steering Group meetings are not published.","answerHtml":"The last Northern Zone Steering Group meeting was held on 2 February 2015. Minutes of Steering Group meetings are not published.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044009%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229220","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229220"}},{"id":"229219","reference":"AQW 44008/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-20","answerBy":"2015-04-08","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 42485/11-15, why the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence has not met since November 2012.","answerText":"In our previous answer, in respect of AQW 42485/11-15, we advised that the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse. As the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety chairs the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence you may wish to direct this question to him.","answerHtml":"In our previous answer, in respect of AQW 42485/11-15, we advised that the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse. As the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety chairs the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence you may wish to direct this question to him.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044008%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229219","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229219"}},{"id":"229218","reference":"AQW 44007/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-20","answerBy":"2015-04-08","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 41125/11-15, with which groups in the community and voluntary sector did he consult in order to develop the code of practice; and to detail a date for its launch.","answerText":"The Code of Practice for Reducing Bureaucracy in Grant Funding to the Voluntary and Community Sector is an internal administrative document for use by Government Departments their Agencies and Non Departmental Public Bodies.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) participated in the project structure to help inform the emerging code. Whilst no specific date has been set for its launch (work on the code is being finalised) this is now expected to take place around May 2015.","answerHtml":"The Code of Practice for Reducing Bureaucracy in Grant Funding to the Voluntary and Community Sector is an internal administrative document for use by Government Departments their Agencies and Non Departmental Public Bodies.
The Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA) participated in the project structure to help inform the emerging code. Whilst no specific date has been set for its launch (work on the code is being finalised) this is now expected to take place around May 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2044007%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=229218","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=229218"}},{"id":"228957","reference":"AQW 43920/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-19","answerBy":"2015-04-03","answered":"2015-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 43284/11-15, how many applications his Department has received for 2015/16 funding; and how many applicants have received notification of the outcome of their application.","answerText":"My Department has received three hundred and sixty five applications through its Neighbourhood Renewal Programme for funding in 2015/16. All organisations have now been advised of the outcome of their application, following the completion of my Department’s assessment and appraisal process.","answerHtml":"My Department has received three hundred and sixty five applications through its Neighbourhood Renewal Programme for funding in 2015/16. All organisations have now been advised of the outcome of their application, following the completion of my Department’s assessment and appraisal process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043920%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228957","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228957"}},{"id":"228955","reference":"AQW 43919/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-19","answerBy":"2015-04-03","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what percentage of (i) primary; and (ii) post-primary school pupils walk or cycle to school.","answerText":"Data on travel behaviours, including journeys to and from school, is routinely collated through the Travel Survey for Northern Ireland (TSNI). The following information, setting out the percentage of journeys to or from school by walking/bicycling, is extracted from the most recent report covering the calendar years 2011, 2012 and 2013.\n\nAge Group\tTravel Mode\t2011-2013\n4-11\tWalk\t26%\nBicycle\t<1%\nAll modes\t100%\n\nAge Group\tTravel Mode\t2011-2013\n12-18\tWalk\t15%\nBicycle\t<1%\nAll modes\t100%\n\nMy Department’s ‘Active School Travel Programme’ began in September 2013. The statistics provided in the most recent edition of the Travel Survey for Northern Ireland covers the period substantially before this programme began.","answerHtml":"Data on travel behaviours, including journeys to and from school, is routinely collated through the Travel Survey for Northern Ireland (TSNI). The following information, setting out the percentage of journeys to or from school by walking/bicycling, is extracted from the most recent report covering the calendar years 2011, 2012 and 2013.
| Age Group | Travel Mode | 2011-2013 |
| 4-11 | Walk | 26% |
| Bicycle | <1% | |
| All modes | 100% |
| Age Group | Travel Mode | 2011-2013 |
| 12-18 | Walk | 15% |
| Bicycle | <1% | |
| All modes | 100% |
My Department’s ‘Active School Travel Programme’ began in September 2013. The statistics provided in the most recent edition of the Travel Survey for Northern Ireland covers the period substantially before this programme began.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043919%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228955"}},{"id":"228950","reference":"AQW 43917/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-19","answerBy":"2015-04-03","answered":"2015-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for the number of (i) carers; and (ii) carers assessments, in each Health and Social Care Trust area in 2014.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not hold figures on the total number of carers in Northern Ireland.\n\nHowever, the 2011 Household Census contained a question related to carers. There a person was defined as a carer if they gave help or support to family members, friends, neighbours or others because of long-term physical or mental ill-health or disability, or problems related to old age. These figures are shown in the table below.\n\nTable 1: Carers at 27th March 2011 by HSC Trust Area\n\nHSC Trust Area\tNo. of Carers\nBelfast\t42,913\nNorthern\t53,507\nSouth Eastern\t44,460\nSouthern\t40,607\nWestern\t32,493\nTotal\t213,980\n\nSource: 2011 Northern Ireland Household Census\n\nPlease note that a number of these carers may not qualify for a carers assessment under the terms of the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002. Under this Act HSC Trusts have a duty to inform carers, aged 16 or over, of their statutory right to an assessment of their ability to provide care and continue to provide care where they provide or intend to provide a substantial amount of care on a regular basis for another individual aged 18 or over. HSC Trusts must also be satisfied that the person cared for is someone for whom they may provide or arrange for the provision of personal social services.\n\nFigures for the number of completed carers’ assessments in each HSC Trust area are detailed in Table 2. Information on carers’ assessments is published on the Departments website in ‘Quarterly Carers’ Statistics for Northern Ireland’. The latest publication can be found at the following link:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/carers-assessments-and-reassessments.htm\n\nTable 2: Completed carers’ assessments during 2014 (January – December) by HSC Trust area\n\nHSC Trust Area\tNo. of Completed Carers Assessments\nBelfast\t1,042\nNorthern\t1,395\nSouth Eastern\t651\nSouthern\t911\nWestern\t495\nTotal\t4,494\n\nSource: Community Information Branch Return CA1","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not hold figures on the total number of carers in Northern Ireland.
However, the 2011 Household Census contained a question related to carers. There a person was defined as a carer if they gave help or support to family members, friends, neighbours or others because of long-term physical or mental ill-health or disability, or problems related to old age. These figures are shown in the table below.
Table 1: Carers at 27th March 2011 by HSC Trust Area
| HSC Trust Area | No. of Carers |
| Belfast | 42,913 |
| Northern | 53,507 |
| South Eastern | 44,460 |
| Southern | 40,607 |
| Western | 32,493 |
| Total | 213,980 |
Source: 2011 Northern Ireland Household Census
Please note that a number of these carers may not qualify for a carers assessment under the terms of the Carers and Direct Payments Act (Northern Ireland) 2002. Under this Act HSC Trusts have a duty to inform carers, aged 16 or over, of their statutory right to an assessment of their ability to provide care and continue to provide care where they provide or intend to provide a substantial amount of care on a regular basis for another individual aged 18 or over. HSC Trusts must also be satisfied that the person cared for is someone for whom they may provide or arrange for the provision of personal social services.
Figures for the number of completed carers’ assessments in each HSC Trust area are detailed in Table 2. Information on carers’ assessments is published on the Departments website in ‘Quarterly Carers’ Statistics for Northern Ireland’. The latest publication can be found at the following link:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/carers-assessments-and-reassessments.htm
Table 2: Completed carers’ assessments during 2014 (January – December) by HSC Trust area
| HSC Trust Area | No. of Completed Carers Assessments |
| Belfast | 1,042 |
| Northern | 1,395 |
| South Eastern | 651 |
| Southern | 911 |
| Western | 495 |
| Total | 4,494 |
Source: Community Information Branch Return CA1
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043917%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228950","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228950"}},{"id":"228947","reference":"AQW 43916/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-19","answerBy":"2015-04-03","answered":"2015-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department is improving access to Justice, as outlined in the Programme for Government 2011-15 commitment number 52.","answerText":"In 2010 I commissioned a review of Access to Justice. I am currently taking forward a programme of work in response to the recommendations in the Review.\n\nA key recommendation was to change the delivery mechanism for legal aid to an Agency of the Department of Justice. The legislation required to deliver this has been passed and the Agency was created on 1 April. This will deliver a range of important governance improvements and efficiency savings. This includes opportunities for economies of scale through shared services, staff development and access to skills and facilities within the wider NICS.\n\nOther reforms are being delivered across the legal aid system in order to protect access to justice while ensuring that legal aid continues to be affordable. Reform has concentrated on ensuring that fees paid for publicly funded work represent value for money, and that legally aided clients receive representation appropriate to the complexity of the issues involved. This helps to ensure that the available resources are targeted to support those most in need and to protect the most vulnerable in society.\n\nI have commissioned a further review of Access to Justice to build on the work already done and to help to inform the agenda for the future. This will report in the Summer.","answerHtml":"In 2010 I commissioned a review of Access to Justice. I am currently taking forward a programme of work in response to the recommendations in the Review.
A key recommendation was to change the delivery mechanism for legal aid to an Agency of the Department of Justice. The legislation required to deliver this has been passed and the Agency was created on 1 April. This will deliver a range of important governance improvements and efficiency savings. This includes opportunities for economies of scale through shared services, staff development and access to skills and facilities within the wider NICS.
Other reforms are being delivered across the legal aid system in order to protect access to justice while ensuring that legal aid continues to be affordable. Reform has concentrated on ensuring that fees paid for publicly funded work represent value for money, and that legally aided clients receive representation appropriate to the complexity of the issues involved. This helps to ensure that the available resources are targeted to support those most in need and to protect the most vulnerable in society.
I have commissioned a further review of Access to Justice to build on the work already done and to help to inform the agenda for the future. This will report in the Summer.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043916%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228947","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228947"}},{"id":"228715","reference":"AQW 43849/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-18","answerBy":"2015-04-02","answered":"2015-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 41201/11-15, for the time frame for (i) the establishment of the steering group and (ii) the commissioning of research.","answerText":"My Department is in the process of establishing the Steering Group and issuing invites to industry representatives. It is hoped that the first meeting will take place within the next month.\n\nThe role of the Steering Group will be to advise my officials as to the scope and the depth of the research needed for the sector. Any research undertaken will be procured through the normal public procurement processes and timescales.","answerHtml":"My Department is in the process of establishing the Steering Group and issuing invites to industry representatives. It is hoped that the first meeting will take place within the next month.
The role of the Steering Group will be to advise my officials as to the scope and the depth of the research needed for the sector. Any research undertaken will be procured through the normal public procurement processes and timescales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043849%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228715"}},{"id":"228700","reference":"AQW 43836/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-18","answerBy":"2015-04-02","answered":"2015-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to list the community and voluntary sector organisations that have participated in developing both the Autism Strategy and Action Plan; and for his assessment of the importance of these organisations in supporting people with autism.","answerText":"The Autism Strategy (2013-2020) and Action Plan (2013-2016) was developed through a process of collaborative and consultative working between people with autism, their families and carers, representatives from all NI government departments and a number of community and voluntary sector organisations.\n\nThe community and voluntary sector organisations who participated in this development via the Autism Strategy Project Board and/or responded to the consultation were: ASD Support Group NI; ASK about Autism; Autism NI; Autism Initiatives NI; Autism Network NI; Barnardo’s NI; Children’s Law Centre; Disability Action; Early Years – The Organisation for Young People; Kaleidoscope NI; MENCAP; National Autistic Society NI; NI Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders; Parents Autism Lobby; and SOLAS Special Needs Charity for NI and Victim Support NI. Respondents to the consultation are listed at: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/autism-strategy-consultation-feedback.pdf.\n\nI readily acknowledge the positive role of voluntary and community organisations in supporting people with autism and their families. Such work is vital in complementing statutory services delivered by professionals and support staff in health and social care, and also that provided by other government departments and their agencies.","answerHtml":"The Autism Strategy (2013-2020) and Action Plan (2013-2016) was developed through a process of collaborative and consultative working between people with autism, their families and carers, representatives from all NI government departments and a number of community and voluntary sector organisations.
The community and voluntary sector organisations who participated in this development via the Autism Strategy Project Board and/or responded to the consultation were: ASD Support Group NI; ASK about Autism; Autism NI; Autism Initiatives NI; Autism Network NI; Barnardo’s NI; Children’s Law Centre; Disability Action; Early Years – The Organisation for Young People; Kaleidoscope NI; MENCAP; National Autistic Society NI; NI Association for the Care and Resettlement of Offenders; Parents Autism Lobby; and SOLAS Special Needs Charity for NI and Victim Support NI. Respondents to the consultation are listed at: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/autism-strategy-consultation-feedback.pdf.
I readily acknowledge the positive role of voluntary and community organisations in supporting people with autism and their families. Such work is vital in complementing statutory services delivered by professionals and support staff in health and social care, and also that provided by other government departments and their agencies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043836%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228700","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228700"}},{"id":"228699","reference":"AQW 43835/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-18","answerBy":"2015-04-02","answered":"2015-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of Secondary Level Pastoral Care provision in meeting the personal and social development of pupils; and to detail the budget allocated for these services in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Pastoral care is about schools demonstrating their concern for the personal and social development of all pupils, regardless of age or ability. Pastoral care is at its most effective when it is all pervasive and fully integrated into the school’s daily routines, its curriculum and its extra-curricular activities.\n\nIt is recognised that Pastoral care provision will differ from school to school but the quality of pastoral care influences the whole-school ethos and is of crucial importance in creating an atmosphere in which all young people feel secure, know they are valued as individuals and encouraged in their learning, growth and social development in a healthy and safe environment.\n\nIndividual schools’ pastoral care provision is evaluated through the inspection process. There is no budget for pastoral care provision.\n\nYou may wish to note that the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (primary level) and Learning for Life and Work (post-primary) elements of the revised curriculum both provide opportunities to discuss and explore a wide range of personal and social development issues such as relationships, drugs, alcohol, etc, so that pupils are better equipped to make good choices and decisions.","answerHtml":"Pastoral care is about schools demonstrating their concern for the personal and social development of all pupils, regardless of age or ability. Pastoral care is at its most effective when it is all pervasive and fully integrated into the school’s daily routines, its curriculum and its extra-curricular activities.
It is recognised that Pastoral care provision will differ from school to school but the quality of pastoral care influences the whole-school ethos and is of crucial importance in creating an atmosphere in which all young people feel secure, know they are valued as individuals and encouraged in their learning, growth and social development in a healthy and safe environment.
Individual schools’ pastoral care provision is evaluated through the inspection process. There is no budget for pastoral care provision.
You may wish to note that the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding (primary level) and Learning for Life and Work (post-primary) elements of the revised curriculum both provide opportunities to discuss and explore a wide range of personal and social development issues such as relationships, drugs, alcohol, etc, so that pupils are better equipped to make good choices and decisions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043835%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228699","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228699"}},{"id":"228698","reference":"AQW 43834/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-18","answerBy":"2015-04-02","answered":"2015-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how her Department is supporting the needs of children with disabilities from low income families to access and utilise sports facilities.","answerText":"Under the Recreation and Youth Service (NI) Order 1986, the provision of leisure facilities and services for all communities, including children with disabilities from low income families, rests in the first instance with District Councils. While the pricing and charging policies for leisure services is purely a matter for each Council, Sport NI works closely with Councils to provide support around the development of leisure facilities and services.\n\nCurrently, Sport NI is working with the new District Councils to develop a Sports Facilities Strategy and eleven associated Area Reports for each Council. These Area Reports will take account of existing facilities and the need for new or improved facilities in each Council area. Disabled access will also be considered as part of this work.\n\nOther support being provided by Sport NI for children with disabilities and their families include work with Outdoor Recreation NI (ORNI) to open up opportunities around outdoor facilities. Examples include: -\n\nAs part of the ‘Active Outdoors - Get Outdoor Weekend’ Sport NI supported the provision of 80 free of charge events at a range of family-friendly venues/sports throughout NI, many of which were suitable for people with a disability.\n\nSport NI also enabled ORNI to develop a project with Autism NI to provide free of charge surfing lessons to young people with autism. As a result of this, ORNI has also provided subsidised coach education programmes for providers/instructors in paddlesports and climbing to improve understanding of how these activities can be made more inclusive for people with a disability.","answerHtml":"Under the Recreation and Youth Service (NI) Order 1986, the provision of leisure facilities and services for all communities, including children with disabilities from low income families, rests in the first instance with District Councils. While the pricing and charging policies for leisure services is purely a matter for each Council, Sport NI works closely with Councils to provide support around the development of leisure facilities and services.
Currently, Sport NI is working with the new District Councils to develop a Sports Facilities Strategy and eleven associated Area Reports for each Council. These Area Reports will take account of existing facilities and the need for new or improved facilities in each Council area. Disabled access will also be considered as part of this work.
Other support being provided by Sport NI for children with disabilities and their families include work with Outdoor Recreation NI (ORNI) to open up opportunities around outdoor facilities. Examples include: -
As part of the ‘Active Outdoors - Get Outdoor Weekend’ Sport NI supported the provision of 80 free of charge events at a range of family-friendly venues/sports throughout NI, many of which were suitable for people with a disability.
Sport NI also enabled ORNI to develop a project with Autism NI to provide free of charge surfing lessons to young people with autism. As a result of this, ORNI has also provided subsidised coach education programmes for providers/instructors in paddlesports and climbing to improve understanding of how these activities can be made more inclusive for people with a disability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043834%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228698","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228698"}},{"id":"228697","reference":"AQW 43833/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-18","answerBy":"2015-04-02","answered":"2015-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of international standards of Applied Behaviour Analysis training in Northern Ireland; and to detail what consideration has been given to supporting this approach as part of the Autism Strategy.","answerText":"My Department has not undertaken such an assessment. The Department and the HSC follow the guidelines set out by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) including guidance CG170 on Autism - management of autism in children and young people. This guidance offers evidence-based advice on the care and management of children and young people with autism and does not make specific reference to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).\n\nAlthough my Department recognises that there are a number of interventions for autism, including ABA, it does not advocate any particular approach. This is a decision for clinicians to make, based on individually assessed needs and good practice evidence. HSC Trusts provide a range of individually tailored programmes which are drawn from a wide body of research and evidence and many of these use approaches from the theoretical frameworks which contribute to ABA.\n\nFollowing assessment, Trusts work collaboratively with children and their families to provide a systemic-based therapeutic intervention, which includes working with children, young people and their families in their communities. Whilst most ABA programmes focus solely on the child, the approach adopted by HSC Trusts means they can work with the child but also the parent (developing supports, effective and consistent parenting strategies, etc) or the school, to support the young person with autism.","answerHtml":"My Department has not undertaken such an assessment. The Department and the HSC follow the guidelines set out by the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) including guidance CG170 on Autism - management of autism in children and young people. This guidance offers evidence-based advice on the care and management of children and young people with autism and does not make specific reference to Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA).
Although my Department recognises that there are a number of interventions for autism, including ABA, it does not advocate any particular approach. This is a decision for clinicians to make, based on individually assessed needs and good practice evidence. HSC Trusts provide a range of individually tailored programmes which are drawn from a wide body of research and evidence and many of these use approaches from the theoretical frameworks which contribute to ABA.
Following assessment, Trusts work collaboratively with children and their families to provide a systemic-based therapeutic intervention, which includes working with children, young people and their families in their communities. Whilst most ABA programmes focus solely on the child, the approach adopted by HSC Trusts means they can work with the child but also the parent (developing supports, effective and consistent parenting strategies, etc) or the school, to support the young person with autism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043833%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228697","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228697"}},{"id":"228480","reference":"AQW 43737/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-16","answerBy":"2015-04-01","answered":"2015-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how many people have received help through the Motability Scheme to access a (i) car; (ii) powered wheelchair; and (iii) mobility scooter, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The information requested is not available. The Motability Scheme, whereby people who receive the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance may exchange all or part of their allowance in return for a car, is administered by the independent charity Motability. Information on administrative matters relating to the scheme can be obtained by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Motability, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5PX.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available. The Motability Scheme, whereby people who receive the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance may exchange all or part of their allowance in return for a car, is administered by the independent charity Motability. Information on administrative matters relating to the scheme can be obtained by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Motability, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5PX.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043737%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228480","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228480"}},{"id":"228479","reference":"AQW 43736/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-16","answerBy":"2015-04-01","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether his Department would consider a Specialised Vehicle Fund, such as the fund administered on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions.","answerText":"The Specialised Vehicle Fund is administered by the independent charity Motability on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions. This fund is administered on a UK wide basis. Information on matters relating to this fund can be obtained from Motability by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Motability, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5PX.","answerHtml":"The Specialised Vehicle Fund is administered by the independent charity Motability on behalf of the Department for Work and Pensions. This fund is administered on a UK wide basis. Information on matters relating to this fund can be obtained from Motability by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Motability, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, Essex, CM19 5PX.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043736%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228479","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228479"}},{"id":"228478","reference":"AQW 43735/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-16","answerBy":"2015-04-01","answered":"2015-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of how changes to the welfare system are likely to impact on people currently eligible for the Mobility Scheme.","answerText":"The Motability Scheme, whereby people who receive the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Allowance may exchange all or part of their allowance in return for a car, is administered by the independent charity Motability. My Department does not hold information on how many people, who receive the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance currently, choose to exchange all or part of their allowance in return for a car.\n\nPeople who are entitled to the enhanced rate of the mobility component under Personal Independence Payment, which will replace Disability Living Allowance for working age people (16-64), will also be able to avail of this Scheme.\n\nWe will continue to work with Motability to ensure that they are aware of the introduction of Personal Independence Payment in Northern Ireland. Further detail on arrangements to support Motability customers who are impacted by the\n\nintroduction of Personal Independence Payment can be obtained by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Motability, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, and Essex, CM19 5PX.","answerHtml":"The Motability Scheme, whereby people who receive the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Allowance may exchange all or part of their allowance in return for a car, is administered by the independent charity Motability. My Department does not hold information on how many people, who receive the higher rate mobility component of the Disability Living Allowance currently, choose to exchange all or part of their allowance in return for a car.
People who are entitled to the enhanced rate of the mobility component under Personal Independence Payment, which will replace Disability Living Allowance for working age people (16-64), will also be able to avail of this Scheme.
We will continue to work with Motability to ensure that they are aware of the introduction of Personal Independence Payment in Northern Ireland. Further detail on arrangements to support Motability customers who are impacted by the
introduction of Personal Independence Payment can be obtained by writing to: Declan O’Mahony, Director, Motability, Warwick House, Roydon Road, Harlow, and Essex, CM19 5PX.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043735%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228478","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228478"}},{"id":"228476","reference":"AQW 43733/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-16","answerBy":"2015-04-01","answered":"2015-04-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the expenditure on private ambulances in each Health and Social Care Trust in the last five years.","answerText":"Expenditure on private ambulances in each Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last five years is set out in the table below. The increase in expenditure reflects increases in hospital admissions, attendances, transfers and discharges.\n\nHealth & Social Care Trust\t2013/14\n£k\t2012/13\n£k\t2011/12\n£k\t2010/11\n£k\t2009/10\n£k\nBelfast\t290\t252\t158\t126\t152\nNorthern\t125\t77\t22\t26\t12\nSouth Eastern\t555\t755\t403\t292\t264\nSouthern\t31\t38\t31\t7\t8\nWestern\t215\t62\t35\t8\t12\nNI Ambulance Service\t18\t34\t2\t6\t11\nTotal\t1,234\t1,218\t651\t465\t459","answerHtml":"Expenditure on private ambulances in each Health and Social Care Trust in each of the last five years is set out in the table below. The increase in expenditure reflects increases in hospital admissions, attendances, transfers and discharges.
| Health & Social Care Trust | 2013/14 £k | 2012/13 £k | 2011/12 £k | 2010/11 £k | 2009/10 £k |
| Belfast | 290 | 252 | 158 | 126 | 152 |
| Northern | 125 | 77 | 22 | 26 | 12 |
| South Eastern | 555 | 755 | 403 | 292 | 264 |
| Southern | 31 | 38 | 31 | 7 | 8 |
| Western | 215 | 62 | 35 | 8 | 12 |
| NI Ambulance Service | 18 | 34 | 2 | 6 | 11 |
| Total | 1,234 | 1,218 | 651 | 465 | 459 |
Royal Portrush Golf Club has been invited to join the rota to host the Open Championship. It is hoped that the first event will be hosted in 2019, however this is still to be confirmed and it is subject to securing planning approvals for course improvements and completion of the works.
As for all major events which Northern Ireland has hosted and will host, Tourism NI will work with key partners to plan for and deliver the event including engagement with the local authority and business community in the area to maximise the economic benefits of hosting such a prestigious tournament.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043731%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228471","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228471"}},{"id":"228342","reference":"AQW 43700/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-13","answerBy":"2015-03-31","answered":"2015-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the funding allocated to the Minority Ethnic Development Fund in 2013/14; and for a breakdown of its distribution.","answerText":"£1.2m was allocated to the Minority Ethnic Development Fund in 2013/14. Letters of Offer were issued to the organisations in the table below.\n\n2013-14\nACSONI - (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nAn Munia Tober- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nArmagh Travellers Support Group- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nArtsEkta - (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nArtsEkta - (Tier 1)\t£15,000.00\nBallymena Inter Ethnic Forum Tier 2\t£45,000.00\nBallymena Inter-Ethnic Forum Tier 1\t£3,670.00\nBallymoney Community Resource Centre- (Tier 2)\t£44,292.52\nBarnardo’s Tuar Ceatha- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nBelfast Islamic Centre- (Tier 2)\t£14,975.00\nBryson Intercultural- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nChinese Welfare Association - (Recruitment Costs)\t£1,500.00\nChinese Welfare Association- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nConnect NICEM (Tier 1)\t£15,000.00\nCookstown and Western Shores Area Network- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nCraigavon Intercultural Programme - (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nCraigavon Travellers Support Committee- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nDialogue for diversity(Tier 1)\t£3,573.65\nEMBRACE- (Tier 2)\t£44,386.36\nGEMS NI- (Tier 2)\t£27,985.74\nHomeplus NI- (Tier 2)\t£44,996.99\nNICEM (Tier 1)\t£15,000.00\nNICEM North West (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nNICEM (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nNICRAS (Tier 2)\t£39,722.81\nNorth Down YMCA- (Tier 2)\t£20,076.00\nNorth Down YMCA - (Recruitment Costs)\t£545.00\nNorth West Migrants Forum - (Tier 2)\t£1,139.10\nOmagh Ethnic Communities Support Group - (Tier 2)\t£44,984.50\nSouth Belfast Roundtable (Tier 1)\t£10,125.00\nSouth Belfast Roundtable (Tier 2)\t£43,122.00\nSouth Tyrone Empowerment Programme (Tier 1)\t£2,300.00\nSouth Tyrone Empowerment Programme (Tier 3)\t£75,000.00\nThe Welcome Project- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00\nWah Hep Chinese Community Association- (Tier 2)\t£45,000.00","answerHtml":"£1.2m was allocated to the Minority Ethnic Development Fund in 2013/14. Letters of Offer were issued to the organisations in the table below.
| 2013-14 | |
| ACSONI - (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| An Munia Tober- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Armagh Travellers Support Group- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| ArtsEkta - (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| ArtsEkta - (Tier 1) | £15,000.00 |
| Ballymena Inter Ethnic Forum Tier 2 | £45,000.00 |
| Ballymena Inter-Ethnic Forum Tier 1 | £3,670.00 |
| Ballymoney Community Resource Centre- (Tier 2) | £44,292.52 |
| Barnardo’s Tuar Ceatha- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Belfast Islamic Centre- (Tier 2) | £14,975.00 |
| Bryson Intercultural- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Chinese Welfare Association - (Recruitment Costs) | £1,500.00 |
| Chinese Welfare Association- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Connect NICEM (Tier 1) | £15,000.00 |
| Cookstown and Western Shores Area Network- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Craigavon Intercultural Programme - (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Craigavon Travellers Support Committee- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Dialogue for diversity(Tier 1) | £3,573.65 |
| EMBRACE- (Tier 2) | £44,386.36 |
| GEMS NI- (Tier 2) | £27,985.74 |
| Homeplus NI- (Tier 2) | £44,996.99 |
| NICEM (Tier 1) | £15,000.00 |
| NICEM North West (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| NICEM (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| NICRAS (Tier 2) | £39,722.81 |
| North Down YMCA- (Tier 2) | £20,076.00 |
| North Down YMCA - (Recruitment Costs) | £545.00 |
| North West Migrants Forum - (Tier 2) | £1,139.10 |
| Omagh Ethnic Communities Support Group - (Tier 2) | £44,984.50 |
| South Belfast Roundtable (Tier 1) | £10,125.00 |
| South Belfast Roundtable (Tier 2) | £43,122.00 |
| South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (Tier 1) | £2,300.00 |
| South Tyrone Empowerment Programme (Tier 3) | £75,000.00 |
| The Welcome Project- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
| Wah Hep Chinese Community Association- (Tier 2) | £45,000.00 |
First Start was initially delivered as a strand of the Steps to Work programme and following the closure of Steps to Work to new entrants as a strand of Employment Service Support.
The network of Lead Contractors responsible for the delivery of both Steps to Work and Employment Service Support liaised with employers to source suitable vacancies for the First Start programme; consequently my Department does not hold detail on the employers participating on a constituency basis.
Validated statistical information is not yet available that would allow me to report on the number of 18-24 year olds gaining (a) temporary and (b) permanent employment following participation on Employment Service Support First Start at present.
Management information collected on the First Start strand of Employment Service Support indicates that by 16 March 2015 over 355 clients have found subsidised employment opportunities through this initiative across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043699%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228339","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228339"}},{"id":"228338","reference":"AQW 43698/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-13","answerBy":"2015-03-31","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for a breakdown, by organisation, of the funding for community transport in each of the last three years; and for his assessment of how this funding has been distributed.","answerText":"My Department funds a grouping of eight Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP). The funding for the last 3 years 2012-15 is broken down by each Partnership and is detailed in the table in Annex A.\n\nFunding is allocated taking account of the requirements set out in each of their business plans and the financial position and costs of each RCTP.\n\nPlease note that the funding analysis statistics are not yet available for 2014/15.\n\n2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\tTOTAL funding for last 3 years\nRural Community Transport Partnership (RCTP)\tFunding\t% staff costs to total costs\tTrips\tAvg Mileage per trip\tFunding\t% staff costs to total costs\tTrips\tAvg Mileage per trip\tFunding\nCDM\t£623,266\t49.9%\t48134\t10.14\t£564,285\t47.6%\t56,335\t12.4\t£591,526\t£1,779,077\nDown District CT\t£443,314\t49.1%\t9915\t29.34\t£439,843\t53.1%\t13,084\t24.4\t£428,303\t£1,311,460\nEasilink\n(Strabane & Omagh)\t£483,207\t48.4%\t36620\t9.93\t£534,627\t49.6%\t38,587\t9.5\t£521,679\t£1,539,513\nFermanagh CT\t£453,977\t42.7%\t31576\t14.23\t£517,469\t46.8%\t33,344\t13.8\t£575,248\t£1,546,694\nLagan Valley (Lisburn)\t£153,963\t48.7%\t5787\t13.46\t£209,359\t45.7%\t6,512\t13.3\t£195,639\t£558,961\nNorth Coast CT\t£554,219\t49.4%\t40205\t10.20\t£605,224\t45.5%\t47,296\t10.6\t£660,717\t£1,820,160\nSouth Antrim CT\t£153,963\t51.3%\t12126\t11.28\t£212,665\t40.1%\t14,021\t13.9\t£213,763\t£580,391\nSouthern – Armagh, Lurgan, Newry & Mourne\t£385,771\t48.3%\t30207\t15.14\t£392,247\t45.0%\t34,788\t18.4\t£440,642\t£1,218,660\nRCTP Totals\t£3,251,680\t48.6%\t214570\t12.46\t£3,475,719\t47.2%\t243,967\t13.4\t£3,627,517\t£10,354,916","answerHtml":"My Department funds a grouping of eight Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP). The funding for the last 3 years 2012-15 is broken down by each Partnership and is detailed in the table in Annex A.
Funding is allocated taking account of the requirements set out in each of their business plans and the financial position and costs of each RCTP.
Please note that the funding analysis statistics are not yet available for 2014/15.
| 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 | TOTAL funding for last 3 years | |||||||
| Rural Community Transport Partnership (RCTP) | Funding | % staff costs to total costs | Trips | Avg Mileage per trip | Funding | % staff costs to total costs | Trips | Avg Mileage per trip | Funding | |
| CDM | £623,266 | 49.9% | 48134 | 10.14 | £564,285 | 47.6% | 56,335 | 12.4 | £591,526 | £1,779,077 |
| Down District CT | £443,314 | 49.1% | 9915 | 29.34 | £439,843 | 53.1% | 13,084 | 24.4 | £428,303 | £1,311,460 |
| Easilink (Strabane & Omagh) | £483,207 | 48.4% | 36620 | 9.93 | £534,627 | 49.6% | 38,587 | 9.5 | £521,679 | £1,539,513 |
| Fermanagh CT | £453,977 | 42.7% | 31576 | 14.23 | £517,469 | 46.8% | 33,344 | 13.8 | £575,248 | £1,546,694 |
| Lagan Valley (Lisburn) | £153,963 | 48.7% | 5787 | 13.46 | £209,359 | 45.7% | 6,512 | 13.3 | £195,639 | £558,961 |
| North Coast CT | £554,219 | 49.4% | 40205 | 10.20 | £605,224 | 45.5% | 47,296 | 10.6 | £660,717 | £1,820,160 |
| South Antrim CT | £153,963 | 51.3% | 12126 | 11.28 | £212,665 | 40.1% | 14,021 | 13.9 | £213,763 | £580,391 |
| Southern – Armagh, Lurgan, Newry & Mourne | £385,771 | 48.3% | 30207 | 15.14 | £392,247 | 45.0% | 34,788 | 18.4 | £440,642 | £1,218,660 |
| RCTP Totals | £3,251,680 | 48.6% | 214570 | 12.46 | £3,475,719 | 47.2% | 243,967 | 13.4 | £3,627,517 | £10,354,916 |
I have been working intensively with officials to determine how best to spend the limited resources that are available to me. My Department delivers key water, transport and road services. The population relies on our services 24 hours a day. However, I am facing £60million of pressures for next year and the scale of reduction required to meet that cannot be delivered without an impact on core services.
Where I fully support and acknowledge the valuable services provided by all community transport service providers, there will however be a reduction in the level of funding available. I have tried to minimise this.
My Department will be working with the service providers to explore ways of delivering the service in a more cost efficient manner and will seek to minimise the impact on the end user.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043696%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228333","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228333"}},{"id":"228182","reference":"AQW 43653/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-12","answerBy":"2015-03-30","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the number of individual cases in the Londonderry area, which required support through legal aid in order to access justice, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Legal Services Commission’s case management system cannot isolate cases in the Londonderry area without a manual trawl of all the Certificates issued. Information in the form requested is therefore not readily available and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Legal Services Commission’s case management system cannot isolate cases in the Londonderry area without a manual trawl of all the Certificates issued. Information in the form requested is therefore not readily available and could only be obtained at disproportionate cost.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043653%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228182","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228182"}},{"id":"228180","reference":"AQW 43652/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-12","answerBy":"2015-03-30","answered":"2015-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the process, within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, by which a Social Worker assesses and determines the care needs of individuals; and for his assessment of the efficiency of administering these assessments.","answerText":"When an individual is referred to a Health and Social Care Trust for an assessment of care needs, this is undertaken by a social worker to determine the nature and extent of those needs.\n\nEvery assessment is based on the individual’s needs and circumstances and length of assessment can vary depending on complexity.\n\nAssessments of needs are undertaken in consultation with the service user, other professionals who may have information to contribute to the process and other family members who may be involved in meeting the individuals care needs.\n\nTo assist the determination of the level of need and how they can best be met, social workers may use specialist assessment tools. Ultimately a social worker exercises a professional judgement based on all information gathered and their professional knowledge and experience to assess an individual’s needs and how those needs can best be met.\n\nInformation gathered for the purposes of assessment is recorded in established regional formats for NISAT and UNOCINI or other specialist assessment frameworks dependent upon the needs of the individual.\n\nThe development of electronic formats for UNOCINI and NISAT is intended to deliver improved efficiency in assessment practice in the future.","answerHtml":"When an individual is referred to a Health and Social Care Trust for an assessment of care needs, this is undertaken by a social worker to determine the nature and extent of those needs.
Every assessment is based on the individual’s needs and circumstances and length of assessment can vary depending on complexity.
Assessments of needs are undertaken in consultation with the service user, other professionals who may have information to contribute to the process and other family members who may be involved in meeting the individuals care needs.
To assist the determination of the level of need and how they can best be met, social workers may use specialist assessment tools. Ultimately a social worker exercises a professional judgement based on all information gathered and their professional knowledge and experience to assess an individual’s needs and how those needs can best be met.
Information gathered for the purposes of assessment is recorded in established regional formats for NISAT and UNOCINI or other specialist assessment frameworks dependent upon the needs of the individual.
The development of electronic formats for UNOCINI and NISAT is intended to deliver improved efficiency in assessment practice in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043652%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228180","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228180"}},{"id":"228179","reference":"AQW 43651/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-12","answerBy":"2015-03-30","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the process by which Health and Social Care Trusts administer direct payments to (i) disabled people aged 16 or over; (ii) carers; (iii) people with parental responsibility for a child with a disability; and (iv) 16 and 17 year old children with disabilities.","answerText":"The Carers and Direct Payments Act (N.I) 2002 gives Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts the power to make direct payments. Subsequently, my Department issued guidance to HSC Trusts to aid in the interpretation of this legislation, in addition to clearly detailing the accounting and monitoring arrangements in the administration of direct payments. This guidance applies to all client groups and can be accessed via the attached links:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/eccu3-09.pdf.\n\nIn addition, Departmental guidance on the administration of Direct Payments for persons who lack capacity to consent has also been issued to the HSC Board and HSC Trusts and can be accessed via the following link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/eccu-1-2012-circular-direct-payments-lack-capacity-to-consent.\n\nAll Direct Payment guidance has been developed to ensure clear governance structures are in place for both individual clients and HSC staff. I expect HSC Trusts to keep the administration of Direct Payments under review in order to ensure systems maintain a person-centred focus, whilst retaining the assurances needed for the responsible use of public money.","answerHtml":"The Carers and Direct Payments Act (N.I) 2002 gives Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts the power to make direct payments. Subsequently, my Department issued guidance to HSC Trusts to aid in the interpretation of this legislation, in addition to clearly detailing the accounting and monitoring arrangements in the administration of direct payments. This guidance applies to all client groups and can be accessed via the attached links:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/direct_payments_legislation_and_guidance_for_boards_and_trusts.pdf http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/eccu3-09.pdf.
In addition, Departmental guidance on the administration of Direct Payments for persons who lack capacity to consent has also been issued to the HSC Board and HSC Trusts and can be accessed via the following link: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/eccu-1-2012-circular-direct-payments-lack-capacity-to-consent.
All Direct Payment guidance has been developed to ensure clear governance structures are in place for both individual clients and HSC staff. I expect HSC Trusts to keep the administration of Direct Payments under review in order to ensure systems maintain a person-centred focus, whilst retaining the assurances needed for the responsible use of public money.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043651%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228179","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228179"}},{"id":"228175","reference":"AQW 43650/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-12","answerBy":"2015-03-30","answered":"2015-03-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of outstanding direct payments for care which currently exist within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Northern Trust has advised that there are currently 34 clients awaiting the provision of direct payments for care.\n\nThese are patients who have been assessed, had their request for direct payments approved and are in the process of having a direct payment arrangement set up.","answerHtml":"The Northern Trust has advised that there are currently 34 clients awaiting the provision of direct payments for care.
These are patients who have been assessed, had their request for direct payments approved and are in the process of having a direct payment arrangement set up.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043650%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228175"}},{"id":"228173","reference":"AQW 43649/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-12","answerBy":"2015-03-30","answered":"2015-03-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what impact the cuts to legal aid will have on Voluntary Sector Organisations who may now face an increase in clients seeking their services.","answerText":"The impact of the removal of any case types from the scope of Civil Legal Aid will be monitored by my Department on an ongoing basis. In developing final proposals, my officials will discuss the impact with the appropriate sectors and Regulatory Impact Assessments will also be undertaken where appropriate. I anticipate that any increase in workload for the advice sector will be very small.\n\nThe agenda setting document for the Access to Justice Review Part II outlined a review of the provision of advice looking at the experience in Northern Ireland and other jurisdictions. It is expected that this review will report by summer 2015 and this will aid the consideration of how funding is provided in this area in the future.","answerHtml":"The impact of the removal of any case types from the scope of Civil Legal Aid will be monitored by my Department on an ongoing basis. In developing final proposals, my officials will discuss the impact with the appropriate sectors and Regulatory Impact Assessments will also be undertaken where appropriate. I anticipate that any increase in workload for the advice sector will be very small.
The agenda setting document for the Access to Justice Review Part II outlined a review of the provision of advice looking at the experience in Northern Ireland and other jurisdictions. It is expected that this review will report by summer 2015 and this will aid the consideration of how funding is provided in this area in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043649%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=228173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=228173"}},{"id":"227921","reference":"AQW 43578/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-11","answerBy":"2015-03-27","answered":"2015-03-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 39173/11-15 and AQW 42846/11-15, to clarify his response to an oral supplementary question on 9 March 2015 regarding the restricted Voluntary Exit Scheme to generate vacancies for those who lost their jobs in the Driver and Vehicle Agency, Coleraine.","answerText":"This particular Voluntary Exit Scheme was not intended to result in jobs being relocated to Coleraine but rather to create suitable vacancies within reasonable daily travelling distance into which DVA surpluses could be redeployed.\n\nDOE have advised that in total, 72 surplus DVA staff will be redeployed into vacancies within DOE or other departments and as a result will cease to be surplus. Many staff have already moved to their new posts which are located in or around Coleraine, Limavady, Ballymoney, Londonderry, Magherafelt and Ballymena.\n\nAll remaining DVA AA and AO surpluses in Coleraine have been allocated by DOE, to long term temporary posts (for up to 2 years) in DVA Coleraine, pending identification of suitable permanent posts. The Scheme has now closed.","answerHtml":"This particular Voluntary Exit Scheme was not intended to result in jobs being relocated to Coleraine but rather to create suitable vacancies within reasonable daily travelling distance into which DVA surpluses could be redeployed.
DOE have advised that in total, 72 surplus DVA staff will be redeployed into vacancies within DOE or other departments and as a result will cease to be surplus. Many staff have already moved to their new posts which are located in or around Coleraine, Limavady, Ballymoney, Londonderry, Magherafelt and Ballymena.
All remaining DVA AA and AO surpluses in Coleraine have been allocated by DOE, to long term temporary posts (for up to 2 years) in DVA Coleraine, pending identification of suitable permanent posts. The Scheme has now closed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043578%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227921","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227921"}},{"id":"227916","reference":"AQW 43575/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-11","answerBy":"2015-03-27","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQW 42492/11-15, to detail the rationale behind the decision to make staff from the Driver and Vehicle Agency exempt from applying to the Northern Ireland Civil Service Voluntary Exit Scheme.","answerText":"The purpose of the NICS Voluntary Exit Scheme, launched on 2 March 2015, is to deliver a permanent paybill reduction for the Civil Service by securing reductions in the numbers of staff working in departments. The Scheme permitted a provision for the exclusion of employees from consideration for selection where it would be necessary to fill consequential vacancies by external recruitment rather than by internal redeployment.\n\nThe decision to exclude most Driver Vehicle Agency (DVA) Professional and Technical (P&T) staff was based on an assessment that any vacancies created by these staff leaving under the VES could not be filled by internal redeployment from elsewhere in the Civil Service. This was because there are no other groups of staff in the Civil Service with the required vehicle and HGV mechanical skills. Thus their release would have triggered a recruitment competition which would have meant no permanent paybill reduction as required, but would also incur the additional costs of releasing staff under the Scheme and running a recruitment exercise.","answerHtml":"The purpose of the NICS Voluntary Exit Scheme, launched on 2 March 2015, is to deliver a permanent paybill reduction for the Civil Service by securing reductions in the numbers of staff working in departments. The Scheme permitted a provision for the exclusion of employees from consideration for selection where it would be necessary to fill consequential vacancies by external recruitment rather than by internal redeployment.
The decision to exclude most Driver Vehicle Agency (DVA) Professional and Technical (P&T) staff was based on an assessment that any vacancies created by these staff leaving under the VES could not be filled by internal redeployment from elsewhere in the Civil Service. This was because there are no other groups of staff in the Civil Service with the required vehicle and HGV mechanical skills. Thus their release would have triggered a recruitment competition which would have meant no permanent paybill reduction as required, but would also incur the additional costs of releasing staff under the Scheme and running a recruitment exercise.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043575%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227916","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227916"}},{"id":"227858","reference":"AQW 43563/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-11","answerBy":"2015-03-27","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department will be effected by a two thirds reduction in funding for Early Years services which include initiatives to address physical and emotional health of children and their families.","answerText":"All Executive Ministers are having to make difficult funding decisions in difficult financial circumstances. It would not be appropriate for me to second guess decision-making by the Minister of Education or any other Executive Minister.\n\nIn terms of our mutual early years commitments, my Department is working with collaboratively with the Department of Education and three other departments to deliver a range of new early intervention projects under the Early Intervention Transformation Programme (EITP). The EITP is underpinned by a £30 million Fund. The Fund is made up of contributions from the Delivering Social Change Programme, all five participating government departments and private philanthropy. The Programme aims to improve outcomes for children and young people across Northern Ireland by embedding early intervention approaches in a transformative way in services for children and families, including services to address children’s physical and emotional health.","answerHtml":"All Executive Ministers are having to make difficult funding decisions in difficult financial circumstances. It would not be appropriate for me to second guess decision-making by the Minister of Education or any other Executive Minister.
In terms of our mutual early years commitments, my Department is working with collaboratively with the Department of Education and three other departments to deliver a range of new early intervention projects under the Early Intervention Transformation Programme (EITP). The EITP is underpinned by a £30 million Fund. The Fund is made up of contributions from the Delivering Social Change Programme, all five participating government departments and private philanthropy. The Programme aims to improve outcomes for children and young people across Northern Ireland by embedding early intervention approaches in a transformative way in services for children and families, including services to address children’s physical and emotional health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043563%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227858","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227858"}},{"id":"227857","reference":"AQW 43562/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-11","answerBy":"2015-03-27","answered":"2015-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 42847/11-15, whether this funding will be ring-fenced for the financial year 2015/16.","answerText":"The £2 million allocated to specialist Eating Disorder Services is recurrent funding and will continue in 2015/16.","answerHtml":"The £2 million allocated to specialist Eating Disorder Services is recurrent funding and will continue in 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043562%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227857","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227857"}},{"id":"227855","reference":"AQW 43561/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-11","answerBy":"2015-03-16","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 43347/11-15, following his Department's meeting, to detail the funding allocation for 2015/16, including details of what date funding will end.","answerText":"The funding allocation for 2015/16 for the Early Years Fund (which is administered on DE’s behalf by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children) is £941,000. This will enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However, any such fund will have to be open to all, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE.","answerHtml":"The funding allocation for 2015/16 for the Early Years Fund (which is administered on DE’s behalf by Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children) is £941,000. This will enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond that date. However, any such fund will have to be open to all, not just current recipients and reflect the policy priorities of DE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043561%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227855","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227855"}},{"id":"227618","reference":"AQW 43495/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-10","answerBy":"2015-03-26","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, pursuant to AQW 42624/11-15, to detail the expected timeframe for extending the Super-connected Cities Programme to council areas outside of Belfast and Londonderry.","answerText":"As stated in my previous answer, the Super Connected Cities Programme is managed by Broadband Delivery UK, a unit within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It is my understanding that the programme will be extended for a one year period, commencing on 1 April 2015.","answerHtml":"As stated in my previous answer, the Super Connected Cities Programme is managed by Broadband Delivery UK, a unit within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport. It is my understanding that the programme will be extended for a one year period, commencing on 1 April 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043495%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227618","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227618"}},{"id":"227616","reference":"AQW 43494/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-10","answerBy":"2015-03-26","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what steps her Department is taking to ensure that the Superfast Rollout Programme will target rural areas where businesses have poor access to broadband provision, during the survey and design process.","answerText":"The Superfast Rollout Programme Phase 2, is a £17 million project aimed at extending the reach of Superfast Broadband services across Northern Ireland, with a target completion date of 2017. A contract for this Programme was signed on 27 February 2015 and will bring more choice and improved speeds to over 38,000 premises across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Project will begin with an extensive survey and design process, which will take place over a number of months. Until this planning work is completed, it will not be possible to say what specific premises will benefit from this upgrade.\n\nHowever, it is expected that the majority of areas that will see improved superfast broadband services, will be in rural areas.","answerHtml":"The Superfast Rollout Programme Phase 2, is a £17 million project aimed at extending the reach of Superfast Broadband services across Northern Ireland, with a target completion date of 2017. A contract for this Programme was signed on 27 February 2015 and will bring more choice and improved speeds to over 38,000 premises across Northern Ireland.
The Project will begin with an extensive survey and design process, which will take place over a number of months. Until this planning work is completed, it will not be possible to say what specific premises will benefit from this upgrade.
However, it is expected that the majority of areas that will see improved superfast broadband services, will be in rural areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043494%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227616","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227616"}},{"id":"227607","reference":"AQW 43490/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-10","answerBy":"2015-03-26","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 37462/11-15, to detail how services to increase (i) awareness raising, information and support; (ii) training; and (iii) short-breaks, respite and support to carers, are being developed through the Dementia Strategy Implementation Group.","answerText":"These three workstreams are being taken forward as part of the joint Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative. This initiative was launched in September 2014 and will provide funding of £6.25m over three years with the aim of improving health and social care services for people living with dementia and their carers.\n\nThe project will: promote greater understanding and awareness of dementia across the whole community; enhance the quality of services for people with dementia through improved training opportunities for staff; and develop a range of innovative support services for carers of people with dementia. Detailed work plans are in place for each workstreas.","answerHtml":"These three workstreams are being taken forward as part of the joint Atlantic Philanthropies/Delivering Social Change Dementia initiative. This initiative was launched in September 2014 and will provide funding of £6.25m over three years with the aim of improving health and social care services for people living with dementia and their carers.
The project will: promote greater understanding and awareness of dementia across the whole community; enhance the quality of services for people with dementia through improved training opportunities for staff; and develop a range of innovative support services for carers of people with dementia. Detailed work plans are in place for each workstreas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043490%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227607"}},{"id":"227606","reference":"AQW 43489/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-10","answerBy":"2015-03-26","answered":"2015-03-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the future of the Causeway Hospital, following the publication of the Donaldson Report.","answerText":"The Northern Trust’s model for services in Causeway and the Glens area is based around an acute hospital in Coleraine with an Emergency Department and supporting clinical services, a well-developed intermediate care service and community teams evenly distributed across the area.\n\nA public consultation has been launched on the Donaldson report and its recommendations to help inform future decisions. The closing date for this consultation is Friday 22 May 2015.","answerHtml":"The Northern Trust’s model for services in Causeway and the Glens area is based around an acute hospital in Coleraine with an Emergency Department and supporting clinical services, a well-developed intermediate care service and community teams evenly distributed across the area.
A public consultation has been launched on the Donaldson report and its recommendations to help inform future decisions. The closing date for this consultation is Friday 22 May 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043489%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227606","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227606"}},{"id":"227588","reference":"AQW 43474/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-10","answerBy":"2015-03-13","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the immediate impact on the most vulnerable in society of the announcement that the Early Years Fund is to be reduced by over two thirds in the financial year 2015/16.","answerText":"I have ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015. There will therefore be no immediate impact on the recipients of the DE Early Years Fund which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for young people (EYO) on behalf of the Department.\n\nThe Fund was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to applicants that were in areas of greatest need at that time.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all and reflect the policy priorities of DE.","answerHtml":"I have ensured that budget is available in 2015/16 to enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015. There will therefore be no immediate impact on the recipients of the DE Early Years Fund which is administered by Early Years – the Organisation for young people (EYO) on behalf of the Department.
The Fund was originally established in 2004 to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended. It has effectively remained as a “closed” Fund since then to applicants that were in areas of greatest need at that time.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all and reflect the policy priorities of DE.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043474%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227588","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227588"}},{"id":"227476","reference":"AQW 43433/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-09","answerBy":"2015-03-25","answered":"2015-06-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide an update on the work undertaken by UNESCO in relation to the child rights indicators.","answerText":"We are currently reviewing the child rights indicators identified by UNESCO. It is proposed that the indicators which have been developed will begin to be utilised to measure and report progress in due course, and work is continuing to identify additional measurable indicators. The development of a workable and deliverable Child Rights Indicator Framework is by its nature a ‘living’ mechanism and best taken forward in partnership with the voluntary and community sector and the Universities.","answerHtml":"We are currently reviewing the child rights indicators identified by UNESCO. It is proposed that the indicators which have been developed will begin to be utilised to measure and report progress in due course, and work is continuing to identify additional measurable indicators. The development of a workable and deliverable Child Rights Indicator Framework is by its nature a ‘living’ mechanism and best taken forward in partnership with the voluntary and community sector and the Universities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043433%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227476","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227476"}},{"id":"227475","reference":"AQW 43432/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-09","answerBy":"2015-03-25","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the annual report on the delivery of the Disability Strategy for 2013/2014 will be made available.","answerText":"The first annual report on the delivery of the Executive’s Disability Strategy, setting out the actions that all departments have undertaken, is currently being finalised.\n\nIt is anticipated that, subject to consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive approval, the report will be published in the near future.","answerHtml":"The first annual report on the delivery of the Executive’s Disability Strategy, setting out the actions that all departments have undertaken, is currently being finalised.
It is anticipated that, subject to consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive approval, the report will be published in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043432%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227475","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227475"}},{"id":"227474","reference":"AQW 43431/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-09","answerBy":"2015-03-25","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the child poverty strategy will be published.","answerText":"The Executive’s first Child Poverty Strategy 2011-14 was published on\n\n24 March 2011. The Executive’s 2014-17 Child Poverty Strategy is currently under consideration and it is envisaged that it will go to the Executive shortly. The Strategy will be published as soon as possible after Executive agreement.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s first Child Poverty Strategy 2011-14 was published on
24 March 2011. The Executive’s 2014-17 Child Poverty Strategy is currently under consideration and it is envisaged that it will go to the Executive shortly. The Strategy will be published as soon as possible after Executive agreement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043431%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227474","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227474"}},{"id":"227473","reference":"AQW 43430/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-09","answerBy":"2015-03-25","answered":"2015-06-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the children's budgeting pilot.","answerText":"Research is being undertaken for the Northern Ireland Children’s Commissioner (NICCY) by the Social Research Unit (SRU) in Dartington to identify the extent and effectiveness of direct public funding being provided for services impacting on the well-being of children and young people.\n\nOFMDFM officials have been involved in providing data for this project. Junior Minister Bell and Junior Minister McCann updated the Delivering Social Change (DSC) Programme Board on 21 January 2015, encouraging all departments to work with NICCY in collating the necessary data for this research.\n\nWe await follow-up from NICCY to assess how this work can inform the approach we will take to any budgeting pilot taking account of available resources in light of budgetary constraints.","answerHtml":"Research is being undertaken for the Northern Ireland Children’s Commissioner (NICCY) by the Social Research Unit (SRU) in Dartington to identify the extent and effectiveness of direct public funding being provided for services impacting on the well-being of children and young people.
OFMDFM officials have been involved in providing data for this project. Junior Minister Bell and Junior Minister McCann updated the Delivering Social Change (DSC) Programme Board on 21 January 2015, encouraging all departments to work with NICCY in collating the necessary data for this research.
We await follow-up from NICCY to assess how this work can inform the approach we will take to any budgeting pilot taking account of available resources in light of budgetary constraints.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043430%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227473","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227473"}},{"id":"227472","reference":"AQW 43429/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-09","answerBy":"2015-03-25","answered":"2015-03-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the rationale behind the reallocation of policy responsibility for Older People to the new Health Department, given the breadth of non-health related issues which affect Older People.","answerText":"The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister exercised responsibility for the central development and co-ordination of policy in relation to a wide range of specific groups within society. However, we consider that there is no compelling reason why this function cannot also be performed effectively by another Department and, in the case of older people, by the proposed Department of Health which already has a major interest in their well-being. All relevant Departments will, of course, continue to contribute, as now, to the development of policy in this area. We believe that this will ensure better alignment of departmental policies and associated strategies, such as active aging with the strategic framework for public health which seeks to enable and support people in achieving their full health and well-being potential.","answerHtml":"The Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister exercised responsibility for the central development and co-ordination of policy in relation to a wide range of specific groups within society. However, we consider that there is no compelling reason why this function cannot also be performed effectively by another Department and, in the case of older people, by the proposed Department of Health which already has a major interest in their well-being. All relevant Departments will, of course, continue to contribute, as now, to the development of policy in this area. We believe that this will ensure better alignment of departmental policies and associated strategies, such as active aging with the strategic framework for public health which seeks to enable and support people in achieving their full health and well-being potential.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043429%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227472","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227472"}},{"id":"227277","reference":"AQW 43351/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-06","answerBy":"2015-03-24","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the outcomes of Early Years funded projects in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Early Years Fund is effectively “closed” as applications are generally only accepted from previous recipients to the Fund.\n\nTo continue to receive funding, groups must demonstrate that they:\n\nProvide direct early years care and education to children.\n\nProvide a service in areas of low provision, disadvantaged areas or where the service is considered critical for children\n\nEnsure inclusion and diversity\n\nEnsure a standard of excellence in relation to quality.","answerHtml":"The Early Years Fund is effectively “closed” as applications are generally only accepted from previous recipients to the Fund.
To continue to receive funding, groups must demonstrate that they:
Provide direct early years care and education to children.
Provide a service in areas of low provision, disadvantaged areas or where the service is considered critical for children
Ensure inclusion and diversity
Ensure a standard of excellence in relation to quality.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043351%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227277"}},{"id":"227276","reference":"AQW 43350/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-06","answerBy":"2015-03-24","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how a reduction of the Early Years Fund would impact upon the most disadvantaged communities in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"During 2014/15 there were 153 recipients of the DE Early Years Fund. The Fund was established to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended; and to support of a number of Capacity and Development posts aimed at enhancing quality and good governance within the early childhood sector.\n\nThe Fund is effectively “closed” as applications are generally only accepted from previous recipients to the Fund.\n\nFollowing a reduction of £2m the residual Fund will have a value of £941k in 2015/16. This will enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.\n\nI will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all and reflect the policy priorities of DE","answerHtml":"During 2014/15 there were 153 recipients of the DE Early Years Fund. The Fund was established to help sustain certain early childhood services in areas of greatest need which were facing funding difficulties when Peace II funding ended; and to support of a number of Capacity and Development posts aimed at enhancing quality and good governance within the early childhood sector.
The Fund is effectively “closed” as applications are generally only accepted from previous recipients to the Fund.
Following a reduction of £2m the residual Fund will have a value of £941k in 2015/16. This will enable all recipient groups to receive continued funding to the end of the current academic year i.e. 31 August 2015.
I will continue to review my budget to establish if a fund can continue beyond 31 August 2015. However any such fund will have to be open to all and reflect the policy priorities of DE
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043350%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227276"}},{"id":"227275","reference":"AQW 43349/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-06","answerBy":"2015-03-24","answered":"2015-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what communication his Department have had with Early Years funded projects, in respect of changes to the fund, including when this communication took place.","answerText":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) administers the DE Early Years Fund on DE’s behalf under an annual Service Level Agreement. Following the final decisions on the DE budget, the Department is advised that EYO contacted the recipients of the Fund on 4th March to notify them of changes to the Fund.","answerHtml":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO) administers the DE Early Years Fund on DE’s behalf under an annual Service Level Agreement. Following the final decisions on the DE budget, the Department is advised that EYO contacted the recipients of the Fund on 4th March to notify them of changes to the Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043349%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227275"}},{"id":"227274","reference":"AQW 43348/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-06","answerBy":"2015-03-24","answered":"2015-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how many employees are likely to be impacted by changes to Early Years funded projects in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young People (which administers the Fund on DE’s behalf) advises that 19 posts have been funded and a further six posts part funded by the DE Early Years Fund, within groups in East Derry in 2014/15.","answerHtml":"Early Years – the Organisation for Young People (which administers the Fund on DE’s behalf) advises that 19 posts have been funded and a further six posts part funded by the DE Early Years Fund, within groups in East Derry in 2014/15.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043348%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227274","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227274"}},{"id":"227272","reference":"AQW 43347/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-06","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education when recipients of the Early Years Fund will be notified of funding allocation for 2015/16.","answerText":"My officials have met with the Fund Administrator, Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO), and asked them to contact groups with urgency to advise them of the position for 2015/16.","answerHtml":"My officials have met with the Fund Administrator, Early Years – the Organisation for Young Children (EYO), and asked them to contact groups with urgency to advise them of the position for 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043347%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227272","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227272"}},{"id":"227125","reference":"AQW 43284/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-05","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development when applicants of Neighbourhood Renewal Funding 2015/16 will be notified of the outcome of their application.","answerText":"Neighbourhood Renewal provides services to people living in our most deprived communities. In this difficult financial climate I am seeking to protect those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of the programme. The process of assessing applications on the basis of evidence of need and impact of each project is currently ongoing.","answerHtml":"Neighbourhood Renewal provides services to people living in our most deprived communities. In this difficult financial climate I am seeking to protect those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of the programme. The process of assessing applications on the basis of evidence of need and impact of each project is currently ongoing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043284%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227125","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227125"}},{"id":"227122","reference":"AQW 43283/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-05","answerBy":"2015-03-23","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the outcomes of the Neighbourhood Renewal projects in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Neighbourhood Renewal provides services to people living in our most deprived communities. The process of assessing applications on the basis of evidence of need and impact of each project is currently ongoing. Throughout this process, officials are seeking to protect those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of the programme.","answerHtml":"Neighbourhood Renewal provides services to people living in our most deprived communities. The process of assessing applications on the basis of evidence of need and impact of each project is currently ongoing. Throughout this process, officials are seeking to protect those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043283%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227122","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227122"}},{"id":"227121","reference":"AQW 43282/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-05","answerBy":"2015-03-23","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how many employees of Neighbourhood Renewal funded projects in East Londonderry are currently on protective notice pending the outcome of the Neighbourhood Renewal 2015/16 Application Process.","answerText":"The funded organisation is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for its employees, including the decision to place staff on protective notice. I have been advised that thirty-three employees working in Neighbourhood Renewal funded projects in East Londonderry are currently on protective notice.","answerHtml":"The funded organisation is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for its employees, including the decision to place staff on protective notice. I have been advised that thirty-three employees working in Neighbourhood Renewal funded projects in East Londonderry are currently on protective notice.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043282%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227121","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227121"}},{"id":"227120","reference":"AQW 43281/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-05","answerBy":"2015-03-23","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how he is supporting organisations and their employees who are put on protective notice pending the outcome of the Neighbourhood Renewal 2015/16 Application Process.","answerText":"The process of assessing applications on the basis of evidence of need and impact of each project is currently ongoing for the 2015/2016 period. Throughout this process, officials are seeking to protect those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of the programme and organisations are being kept informed of developments.\n\nHowever, it should be noted that any decision to place staff on protective notice rests with the funded organisation that is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for their employees.","answerHtml":"The process of assessing applications on the basis of evidence of need and impact of each project is currently ongoing for the 2015/2016 period. Throughout this process, officials are seeking to protect those projects which demonstrate most effectively that they are meeting the objectives of the programme and organisations are being kept informed of developments.
However, it should be noted that any decision to place staff on protective notice rests with the funded organisation that is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for their employees.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043281%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227120","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227120"}},{"id":"227117","reference":"AQW 43280/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-05","answerBy":"2015-03-23","answered":"2015-03-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether redundancy payments are applicable costs within Neighbourhood Renewal funding when projects come to an end.","answerText":"The funded organisation is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for its employees, including that of redundancy payments. As a result redundancy payments are not an applicable cost within Neighbourhood Renewal funding contracts.","answerHtml":"The funded organisation is the employer and as such assumes all statutory employment responsibilities for its employees, including that of redundancy payments. As a result redundancy payments are not an applicable cost within Neighbourhood Renewal funding contracts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043280%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=227117","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=227117"}},{"id":"226965","reference":"AQW 43212/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-04","answerBy":"2015-03-20","answered":"2015-03-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, in relation to reports of proposed cancellations of twenty town bus services, which towns will be affected; and how the removal of these services will affect older people and people with disabilities.","answerText":"As a result of the additional monies I have secured in the final budget, town services will remain in existence for 2015/16. The bus network will be retained. Nevertheless there will still be the need for Translink to make efficiencies in administration, overhead costs and to review the frequency of some services.\n\nTranslink will be consulting locally on the detail of this.","answerHtml":"As a result of the additional monies I have secured in the final budget, town services will remain in existence for 2015/16. The bus network will be retained. Nevertheless there will still be the need for Translink to make efficiencies in administration, overhead costs and to review the frequency of some services.
Translink will be consulting locally on the detail of this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043212%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226965","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226965"}},{"id":"226910","reference":"AQW 43197/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-04","answerBy":"2015-03-20","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 41948/11-15, to detail the expected timeline for the review of the current business rates system.","answerText":"I have advised the Assembly that a review of business rates will commence when the non domestic Revaluation has bedded in.\n\nThe review will begin in June with an Innovation Lab, which will help define the scope of the review and advise on its conduct. Informed by this work, my Department will draw up terms of reference before summer recess which will include timelines and milestones for the work.","answerHtml":"I have advised the Assembly that a review of business rates will commence when the non domestic Revaluation has bedded in.
The review will begin in June with an Innovation Lab, which will help define the scope of the review and advise on its conduct. Informed by this work, my Department will draw up terms of reference before summer recess which will include timelines and milestones for the work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043197%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226910"}},{"id":"226903","reference":"AQW 43196/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-04","answerBy":"2015-03-20","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 41882/11-15, to detail (i) the criteria used to indicate locations and sectors which have not fared so well since 2001; and (ii) the changes in rate liability for these locations and sectors","answerText":"The criteria is simple. A revaluation seeks to closely follow the market as at an earlier in time, fixed valuation date. It is therefore the relative changes in market rental values that occurred from 2001 to the new valuation date of 2013 that affect the outcome of the 2015 revaluation. Anything that affects rents - demand, supply, location, size, type, condition and services, to name some of the main factors, will be evidenced in the new rateable values.\n\nLocations and sectors that have not fared so well will be those that experienced lower than average rental growth, comparing 2001 rental levels to 2013 rental levels.\n\nAnalysis showing changes in rate liability for business sectors in each of the 26 district council areas is available to view at www.dfpni.gov.uk/lps/index/reval2015ni/local_briefings.htm. Additionally the website now shows for each of the new Net Annual Values (NAVs), rate poundages and annual rates estimates for 2015/16 and the percentages changes from 2014/15, at http://revalpublication.dfpni.gov.uk/.","answerHtml":"The criteria is simple. A revaluation seeks to closely follow the market as at an earlier in time, fixed valuation date. It is therefore the relative changes in market rental values that occurred from 2001 to the new valuation date of 2013 that affect the outcome of the 2015 revaluation. Anything that affects rents - demand, supply, location, size, type, condition and services, to name some of the main factors, will be evidenced in the new rateable values.
Locations and sectors that have not fared so well will be those that experienced lower than average rental growth, comparing 2001 rental levels to 2013 rental levels.
Analysis showing changes in rate liability for business sectors in each of the 26 district council areas is available to view at www.dfpni.gov.uk/lps/index/reval2015ni/local_briefings.htm. Additionally the website now shows for each of the new Net Annual Values (NAVs), rate poundages and annual rates estimates for 2015/16 and the percentages changes from 2014/15, at http://revalpublication.dfpni.gov.uk/.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043196%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226903"}},{"id":"226883","reference":"AQW 43194/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-04","answerBy":"2015-03-20","answered":"2015-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 42769/11-15, to detail the arrangement for administering revenue core funding to Volunteer Centres in Northern Ireland, since 2013.","answerText":"New arrangements to support volunteering infrastructure organisations have been in place since 1 October 2013 providing support to seven volunteering infrastructure organisations in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe table provides detail on the level of support provided since 1 October 2013.\n\n1/10/2013 -31/03/2014\nOrganisation Name\tGrant Award Amount\nCauseway Volunteer Centre\t£25,000.00\nCookstown & Magherafelt Volunteer Centre\t£21,062.00\nCraigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre\t£20,548.65\nLimavady Volunteer Centre\t£22,956.65\nNorth West Volunteer Centre\t£28,334.00\nOmagh Volunteer Centre\t£19,385.52\nVolunteer Now\t£111,349.00\nVolunteer Now\t£188,304.97\n£436,940.79\n\n1/04/2014 -31/03/2015\nOrganisation Name\tGrant Award Amount\n\nCauseway Volunteer Centre\t£40,000.00\nCookstown & Magherafelt Volunteer Centre\t£43,938.00\nCraigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre\t£39,451.35\nLimavady Volunteer Centre\t£37,043.35\nNorth West Volunteer Centre\t£58,666.00\nOmagh Volunteer Centre\t£40,614.48\nVolunteer Now\t£401,695.03\n£661,408.21","answerHtml":"New arrangements to support volunteering infrastructure organisations have been in place since 1 October 2013 providing support to seven volunteering infrastructure organisations in Northern Ireland.
The table provides detail on the level of support provided since 1 October 2013.
| 1/10/2013 -31/03/2014 | |
| Organisation Name | Grant Award Amount |
| Causeway Volunteer Centre | £25,000.00 |
| Cookstown & Magherafelt Volunteer Centre | £21,062.00 |
| Craigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre | £20,548.65 |
| Limavady Volunteer Centre | £22,956.65 |
| North West Volunteer Centre | £28,334.00 |
| Omagh Volunteer Centre | £19,385.52 |
| Volunteer Now | £111,349.00 |
| Volunteer Now | £188,304.97 |
| £436,940.79 |
| 1/04/2014 -31/03/2015 | |
| Organisation Name | Grant Award Amount |
| Causeway Volunteer Centre | £40,000.00 |
| Cookstown & Magherafelt Volunteer Centre | £43,938.00 |
| Craigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre | £39,451.35 |
| Limavady Volunteer Centre | £37,043.35 |
| North West Volunteer Centre | £58,666.00 |
| Omagh Volunteer Centre | £40,614.48 |
| Volunteer Now | £401,695.03 |
| £661,408.21 |
The measures included in my response to AQW 42486/11-15, which are wide-ranging in nature, have contributed to enhance the provision of advice and support to victims of sexual violence and abuse and raise awareness of health and social care needs.
These services encourage victims of sexual violence and abuse to report these crimes, where necessary and appropriate, to the authorities. This decision though may ultimately rest with the victim. Should victims decide on this route additional support will be provided through the criminal justice system and victims are also encouraged to use to the services of Victim Support NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043193%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226882","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226882"}},{"id":"226679","reference":"AQW 43149/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-03","answerBy":"2015-03-19","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail (i) the number of jobs created through the Step Ahead 50+ Initiative, broken down by Constituency, and (ii) whether the Initiative is on track to meet its original target beyond March 2015.","answerText":"The Step Ahead 50+ Initiative was initially delivered as a strand of the Steps to Work programme and latterly as a strand of Employment Service Support.\n\nReferrals to the Steps to Work programme ended on 30th May 2014 and\n\nEmployment Service Support (ESS) was introduced on 2 June 2014, to support the continued delivery of Executive funded initiatives, including Step Ahead 50+, and as part of the wider transition arrangements that facilitated the continuity of provision in the run up to the introduction of the new adult employment programme Steps2Success.\n\nThe following table sets out those participants finding a temporary employment opportunity through the Step Ahead 50+ strand of the Steps to Work programme between January 2013 and June 2014.\n\nParticipants starting the the Step Ahead 50+ strand of Steps to Work (January 2013 to June 2014) (1) (2)\n\nWestminster Parliamentary Constituency\t2012/13\t2013/14\tApr-Jun 14\tTotal\nBelfast East\t5\t30\t5\t35\nBelfast North\t25\t70\t5\t105\nBelfast South\t10\t20\t-\t30\nBelfast West\t25\t70\t-\t95\nEast Antrim\t15\t35\t5\t50\nEast Londonderry\t10\t25\t-\t35\nFermanagh and South Tyrone\t10\t15\t-\t25\nFoyle\t20\t80\t5\t105\nLagan Valley\t5\t20\t-\t30\nMid Ulster\t5\t40\t5\t50\nNewry and Armagh\t5\t20\t-\t25\nNorth Antrim\t15\t30\t-\t45\nNorth Down\t-\t35\t5\t40\nSouth Antrim\t5\t25\t-\t25\nSouth Down\t5\t25\t5\t35\nStrangford\t10\t35\t-\t45\nUpper Bann\t5\t50\t-\t60\nWest Tyrone\t5\t35\t-\t45\nNot Known\t0\t15\t-\t15\nTotal\t180\t680\t45\t905\nNotes:\n(1) Figures are rounded to the nearest 5, due to rounding figures may not sum to totals.\n(2) Cases were a participant started and finished an activity on the same day have been removed.\n(3) Step Ahead 50+ was introduced in January 2013 - figures are from this date.\n\nIn addition to the above, validated statistical information is not yet available on ESS that would allow me to report on starts by constituency; management information collected on the Step Ahead 50+ strand of ESS indicates that by 28 February 2015 over 280 clients have found temporary employment opportunities through this initiative.\n\nAs the original target for Step Ahead 50+ was to deliver 1,100 temporary job opportunities within the Community/Voluntary sector by March 2015, with over 1,185 temporary job opportunities already delivered the Initiative is on track to exceed its original target.","answerHtml":"The Step Ahead 50+ Initiative was initially delivered as a strand of the Steps to Work programme and latterly as a strand of Employment Service Support.
Referrals to the Steps to Work programme ended on 30th May 2014 and
Employment Service Support (ESS) was introduced on 2 June 2014, to support the continued delivery of Executive funded initiatives, including Step Ahead 50+, and as part of the wider transition arrangements that facilitated the continuity of provision in the run up to the introduction of the new adult employment programme Steps2Success.
The following table sets out those participants finding a temporary employment opportunity through the Step Ahead 50+ strand of the Steps to Work programme between January 2013 and June 2014.
| Participants starting the the Step Ahead 50+ strand of Steps to Work (January 2013 to June 2014) (1) (2) | ||||
| Westminster Parliamentary Constituency | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | Apr-Jun 14 | Total |
| Belfast East | 5 | 30 | 5 | 35 |
| Belfast North | 25 | 70 | 5 | 105 |
| Belfast South | 10 | 20 | - | 30 |
| Belfast West | 25 | 70 | - | 95 |
| East Antrim | 15 | 35 | 5 | 50 |
| East Londonderry | 10 | 25 | - | 35 |
| Fermanagh and South Tyrone | 10 | 15 | - | 25 |
| Foyle | 20 | 80 | 5 | 105 |
| Lagan Valley | 5 | 20 | - | 30 |
| Mid Ulster | 5 | 40 | 5 | 50 |
| Newry and Armagh | 5 | 20 | - | 25 |
| North Antrim | 15 | 30 | - | 45 |
| North Down | - | 35 | 5 | 40 |
| South Antrim | 5 | 25 | - | 25 |
| South Down | 5 | 25 | 5 | 35 |
| Strangford | 10 | 35 | - | 45 |
| Upper Bann | 5 | 50 | - | 60 |
| West Tyrone | 5 | 35 | - | 45 |
| Not Known | 0 | 15 | - | 15 |
| Total | 180 | 680 | 45 | 905 |
| Notes: | ||||
| (1) Figures are rounded to the nearest 5, due to rounding figures may not sum to totals. | ||||
| (2) Cases were a participant started and finished an activity on the same day have been removed. | ||||
| (3) Step Ahead 50+ was introduced in January 2013 - figures are from this date. |
In addition to the above, validated statistical information is not yet available on ESS that would allow me to report on starts by constituency; management information collected on the Step Ahead 50+ strand of ESS indicates that by 28 February 2015 over 280 clients have found temporary employment opportunities through this initiative.
As the original target for Step Ahead 50+ was to deliver 1,100 temporary job opportunities within the Community/Voluntary sector by March 2015, with over 1,185 temporary job opportunities already delivered the Initiative is on track to exceed its original target.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043149%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226679"}},{"id":"226678","reference":"AQW 43148/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-03","answerBy":"2015-03-19","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what is his assessment of the Step Ahead 50+ Initiative; and whether it will be extended beyond March 2015.","answerText":"Step Ahead 50+ was introduced in January 2013 after funding was secured through the Executives Economy and Jobs Initiative, announced on 7 November 2012. Step Ahead 50+ was designed to improve job outcomes for participants from this age group by providing them with work experience and a recent job history thereby enabling them to compete more effectively for jobs in the current economic climate.\n\nGiven that this Initiative has already exceeded its target of 1,100 temporary job opportunities within the Community/Voluntary sector by March 2015, for this traditionally harder to help section of our community, I would consider the Initiative to have been a success.\n\nStep Ahead 50+ was a time bound initiative funded by the Executive to March 2015 at which time funding for the programme ended. With the withdrawal of this funding it is not possible to continue with the programme beyond March 2015. To do so would create additional financial pressures at a time when, as I am sure you are aware, resources are not available.","answerHtml":"Step Ahead 50+ was introduced in January 2013 after funding was secured through the Executives Economy and Jobs Initiative, announced on 7 November 2012. Step Ahead 50+ was designed to improve job outcomes for participants from this age group by providing them with work experience and a recent job history thereby enabling them to compete more effectively for jobs in the current economic climate.
Given that this Initiative has already exceeded its target of 1,100 temporary job opportunities within the Community/Voluntary sector by March 2015, for this traditionally harder to help section of our community, I would consider the Initiative to have been a success.
Step Ahead 50+ was a time bound initiative funded by the Executive to March 2015 at which time funding for the programme ended. With the withdrawal of this funding it is not possible to continue with the programme beyond March 2015. To do so would create additional financial pressures at a time when, as I am sure you are aware, resources are not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043148%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226678"}},{"id":"226675","reference":"AQW 43146/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-03","answerBy":"2015-03-19","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how her Department is supporting employment creation in East Londonderry, through means other than Invest NI support; and to detail the number of jobs created over the last five years as a result.","answerText":"The Department supports a number of schemes which have the potential to promote economic development and employment creation. Detailed research would be required to put an estimate on the full job creation potential and it would not be possible to identify specific numbers of jobs created in any one constituency under all the schemes. However, since 1 April 2012, Tourism Northern Ireland has supported 2 tourism projects in the East Londonderry Constituency which have resulted in job creation:\n\nIn 2012/13 Tourism NI supported the West Bay Portrush Environmental Improvement Scheme through the Tourism Development Scheme (TDS) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007 – 2013. 1 construction job was created and 26 construction jobs were sustained as a result of this support.\n\nIn 2013/14 Tourism NI supported the Benone Tourist Complex through the Tourism Development Scheme (TDS) and The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007 – 2013. 39 construction jobs were created; 7 tourism jobs created and 2 tourism jobs sustained as a result of this support.","answerHtml":"The Department supports a number of schemes which have the potential to promote economic development and employment creation. Detailed research would be required to put an estimate on the full job creation potential and it would not be possible to identify specific numbers of jobs created in any one constituency under all the schemes. However, since 1 April 2012, Tourism Northern Ireland has supported 2 tourism projects in the East Londonderry Constituency which have resulted in job creation:
In 2012/13 Tourism NI supported the West Bay Portrush Environmental Improvement Scheme through the Tourism Development Scheme (TDS) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007 – 2013. 1 construction job was created and 26 construction jobs were sustained as a result of this support.
In 2013/14 Tourism NI supported the Benone Tourist Complex through the Tourism Development Scheme (TDS) and The European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) 2007 – 2013. 39 construction jobs were created; 7 tourism jobs created and 2 tourism jobs sustained as a result of this support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043146%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226675","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226675"}},{"id":"226671","reference":"AQW 43142/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-03","answerBy":"2015-03-19","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 42334/11-15, to detail the outcomes of these meetings, and whether the minutes are available for Voluntary Community Sector Groups.","answerText":"My initial meeting with the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) Co-Chairs of the Joint Forum in October 2014 was held as part of my round of introductory meetings with key VCS stakeholders. No formal minutes of the meeting were taken.\n\nFollowing Joint Forum meetings, minutes are produced for circulation and are summarised in a Joint Communiqué. These are circulated to Joint Forum members for distribution to their voluntary and community networks and public sector colleagues. The Joint Forum secretariat also publishes these documents on the DSD and NICVA websites.\n\nThe minutes and communiqué for the Joint Forum meeting I attended on 18 February 2015 have yet to be finalised and are planned to issue within the next 2 weeks.","answerHtml":"My initial meeting with the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) Co-Chairs of the Joint Forum in October 2014 was held as part of my round of introductory meetings with key VCS stakeholders. No formal minutes of the meeting were taken.
Following Joint Forum meetings, minutes are produced for circulation and are summarised in a Joint Communiqué. These are circulated to Joint Forum members for distribution to their voluntary and community networks and public sector colleagues. The Joint Forum secretariat also publishes these documents on the DSD and NICVA websites.
The minutes and communiqué for the Joint Forum meeting I attended on 18 February 2015 have yet to be finalised and are planned to issue within the next 2 weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043142%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226671","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226671"}},{"id":"226670","reference":"AQW 43141/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-03","answerBy":"2015-03-19","answered":"2015-03-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to list the Public Sector Groups and Voluntary and Community Sector Groups that have participatory roles on the Joint Forum; and to detail the activity of Concordat Action Teams to date.","answerText":"The Joint Forum is made up of the Public Sector Group (PSG) and the Voluntary and Community Panel Group (VS Panel).\n\nThe PSG consists of representatives from each Government Department and two officials from local government representing the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) and the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE).\n\nThe VS Panel consists of representatives from voluntary and community sector organisations. Membership to the Panel is through a process managed by the Northern Ireland Council for Community Action reflecting a cross-section of representation from the Sector.\n\nDetails of public and voluntary and community sector membership are attached at Annex A.\n\nAs Minister for Social Development I formally present a report to my Executive and Assembly colleagues each year on issues impacting on the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS). This report contains information on the work of the Concordat’s Commitment Action Teams (CATs) who research and make recommendation for improvement. Details on each CAT activity are shown at Annex B.\n\nAnnex A\n\nGROUP MEMBERSHIP OF THE JOINT FORUM\n\nPUBLIC SECTOR GROUP\nDepartment of Agriculture and Rural Development\nDepartment for Culture, Arts and Leisure\nDepartment of Education\nDepartment for Employment and Learning\nDepartment of Enterprise, Trade and Investment\nDepartment of the Environment\nDepartment of Finance and Personnel\nDepartment of Health, Social Services and Public Safety\nDepartment of Justice\nDepartment for Regional Development\nDepartment for Social Development\nOffice of the First and deputy First Minister\n\nVOLUNTARY SECTOR PANEL\nAge NI\nCarers NI\nChurches’ Community Work Alliance NI\nDisability Action\nEast Belfast Community Development Agency\nGingerbread NI\nNorth West Community Network\nNorthern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action\nNorthern Ireland Rural Women’s Network\nNorthern Ireland Youth Forum\nRural Community Network\nSandy Row Community Forum\nSave the Children\nVictim Support\nVoluntary Arts Ireland\nWomen’s Resource and Development Agency\nWorld Wildlife Fund\n\nAnnex B\n\nCOMMITMENT ACTION TEAM (CAT) UPDATE\n\nInfluence and Examine the Impact of Government Policy CATThe objective of this CAT was to identify how stakeholders could more effectively engage with policy makers at an early stage of development. A key success of this CAT has been the agreement from the Permanent Secretaries Group that Departmental representatives will now provide details of new and policies due for revision to the Joint Forum. This process has now been mainstreamed into the work of the Joint Forum under ‘Policy Discussion’.\n\nConcordat Compliance Monitoring CATConcordat Compliance Monitoring is a process to assess the level of understanding, and degree of implementation of the Concordat within Government and the VCS. Progress has been made through a pilot assessment of a government policy to test its validity and a wider-scale pilot is planned to be undertaken to fully validate the form before roll-out across the public sector.\n\nAddressing Bureaucracy in Grant Administration to the Voluntary and Community Sector CATThis CAT investigated excessive bureaucratic working practices in grant funding to the VCS. The scope of the project was expanded to include a response to recommendations arising from Northern Ireland Audit Office (NIAO) and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) reports on reducing bureaucracy in public funding to the VCS and to improve working relationships between public bodies and the Sector. The resultant “Addressing Bureaucracy” report identified nineteen recommendations on reducing bureaucratic working practices in administering grant funding. These have been incorporated into a Code of Practice and a Financial Systems and Controls Assessment (FSCA) process which will be applicable to all central government funders within Northern Ireland.\n\nOutcomes-Focused Approach to Funding CAT The Joint Forum is currently monitoring the development and implementation of the ‘NI Inspiring Impact Programme’ which is being delivered by Building Change Trust (BCT).\n\nFive impact practice projects are being supported which are planned to enable Government and statutory bodies to apply an outcome-focused approach to grant funding in the future.\n\nCommunications CATThis CAT has resulted in the development of a ‘Joint Forum Portal’ which details the work being undertaken, membership of the Public Sector and Voluntary and Community Sector groups and Joint Forum publications. Work continues on other communication issues.\n\nStructural Reform CAT\n\nThe Structural Reform team has been stood down following mainstreaming and completion of its 3 objectives:\n\nTo present to the NI Executive and Assembly a yearly report from the Joint Forum through the DSD Minister on issues impacting on the Voluntary and Community Sector.\n\nTo review the Terms of Reference and Membership of the Joint Forum to reflect the agreement within the Concordat and emerging public sector structures and responsibilities.\n\nTo explore and develop processes whereby Concordat non-compliance can be addressed.","answerHtml":"The Joint Forum is made up of the Public Sector Group (PSG) and the Voluntary and Community Panel Group (VS Panel).
The PSG consists of representatives from each Government Department and two officials from local government representing the Northern Ireland Local Government Association (NILGA) and the Society of Local Authority Chief Executives (SOLACE).
The VS Panel consists of representatives from voluntary and community sector organisations. Membership to the Panel is through a process managed by the Northern Ireland Council for Community Action reflecting a cross-section of representation from the Sector.
Details of public and voluntary and community sector membership are attached at Annex A.
As Minister for Social Development I formally present a report to my Executive and Assembly colleagues each year on issues impacting on the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS). This report contains information on the work of the Concordat’s Commitment Action Teams (CATs) who research and make recommendation for improvement. Details on each CAT activity are shown at Annex B.
Annex A
GROUP MEMBERSHIP OF THE JOINT FORUM
| PUBLIC SECTOR GROUP |
| Department of Agriculture and Rural Development |
| Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure |
| Department of Education |
| Department for Employment and Learning |
| Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment |
| Department of the Environment |
| Department of Finance and Personnel |
| Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety |
| Department of Justice |
| Department for Regional Development |
| Department for Social Development |
| Office of the First and deputy First Minister |
| VOLUNTARY SECTOR PANEL |
| Age NI |
| Carers NI |
| Churches’ Community Work Alliance NI |
| Disability Action |
| East Belfast Community Development Agency |
| Gingerbread NI |
| North West Community Network |
| Northern Ireland Council for Voluntary Action |
| Northern Ireland Rural Women’s Network |
| Northern Ireland Youth Forum |
| Rural Community Network |
| Sandy Row Community Forum |
| Save the Children |
| Victim Support |
| Voluntary Arts Ireland |
| Women’s Resource and Development Agency |
| World Wildlife Fund |
Annex B
COMMITMENT ACTION TEAM (CAT) UPDATE
Influence and Examine the Impact of Government Policy CATThe objective of this CAT was to identify how stakeholders could more effectively engage with policy makers at an early stage of development. A key success of this CAT has been the agreement from the Permanent Secretaries Group that Departmental representatives will now provide details of new and policies due for revision to the Joint Forum. This process has now been mainstreamed into the work of the Joint Forum under ‘Policy Discussion’.
Concordat Compliance Monitoring CATConcordat Compliance Monitoring is a process to assess the level of understanding, and degree of implementation of the Concordat within Government and the VCS. Progress has been made through a pilot assessment of a government policy to test its validity and a wider-scale pilot is planned to be undertaken to fully validate the form before roll-out across the public sector.
Addressing Bureaucracy in Grant Administration to the Voluntary and Community Sector CATThis CAT investigated excessive bureaucratic working practices in grant funding to the VCS. The scope of the project was expanded to include a response to recommendations arising from Northern Ireland Audit Office (NIAO) and the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) reports on reducing bureaucracy in public funding to the VCS and to improve working relationships between public bodies and the Sector. The resultant “Addressing Bureaucracy” report identified nineteen recommendations on reducing bureaucratic working practices in administering grant funding. These have been incorporated into a Code of Practice and a Financial Systems and Controls Assessment (FSCA) process which will be applicable to all central government funders within Northern Ireland.
Outcomes-Focused Approach to Funding CAT The Joint Forum is currently monitoring the development and implementation of the ‘NI Inspiring Impact Programme’ which is being delivered by Building Change Trust (BCT).
Five impact practice projects are being supported which are planned to enable Government and statutory bodies to apply an outcome-focused approach to grant funding in the future.
Communications CATThis CAT has resulted in the development of a ‘Joint Forum Portal’ which details the work being undertaken, membership of the Public Sector and Voluntary and Community Sector groups and Joint Forum publications. Work continues on other communication issues.
Structural Reform CAT
The Structural Reform team has been stood down following mainstreaming and completion of its 3 objectives:
To present to the NI Executive and Assembly a yearly report from the Joint Forum through the DSD Minister on issues impacting on the Voluntary and Community Sector.
To review the Terms of Reference and Membership of the Joint Forum to reflect the agreement within the Concordat and emerging public sector structures and responsibilities.
To explore and develop processes whereby Concordat non-compliance can be addressed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043141%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226670","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226670"}},{"id":"226520","reference":"AQW 43068/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-02","answerBy":"2015-03-18","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) nurses in each Health and Social Care Trust; and for his assessment of the regularity of appointments with an MS nurse.","answerText":"The number of MS specialist nurses in each Trust is set out in the table below:\n\nHealth and Social Care Trust\tNumber of MS nurses\nBelfast\t6.1 wte\nNorthern\t0.5\nSouth Eastern\t0\nSouthern\t2\nWestern\t1.64 wte\nTotal\t10.24 wte\n\nThe regularity of appointments is a matter of clinical judgment and is based on individual patients’ needs.","answerHtml":"The number of MS specialist nurses in each Trust is set out in the table below:
| Health and Social Care Trust | Number of MS nurses |
| Belfast | 6.1 wte |
| Northern | 0.5 |
| South Eastern | 0 |
| Southern | 2 |
| Western | 1.64 wte |
| Total | 10.24 wte |
The regularity of appointments is a matter of clinical judgment and is based on individual patients’ needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043068%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226520"}},{"id":"226519","reference":"AQW 43067/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-02","answerBy":"2015-03-18","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 42333/11-15, whether there are plans to appoint a member, as representative of the Northern Ireland Executive, to the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission.","answerText":"There are currently no plans to appoint a member, as representative of the Northern Ireland Executive, to the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission.","answerHtml":"There are currently no plans to appoint a member, as representative of the Northern Ireland Executive, to the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043067%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226519","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226519"}},{"id":"226518","reference":"AQW 43066/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-02","answerBy":"2015-03-18","answered":"2015-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, pursuant to AQW 41872/11-15, to detail the timescale for new mast sites under the Mobile Infrastructure project.","answerText":"My Department does not hold this information.\n\nThe Mobile Infrastructure project is being run directly from the Department of Culture Media and Sport.\n\nFurther information can be obtained at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mobile-coverage-in-rural-areas-set-to-improve\n\nMy Department maintains a watching brief on these initiatives and will assess the need for further Government intervention once they are complete.","answerHtml":"My Department does not hold this information.
The Mobile Infrastructure project is being run directly from the Department of Culture Media and Sport.
Further information can be obtained at: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mobile-coverage-in-rural-areas-set-to-improve
My Department maintains a watching brief on these initiatives and will assess the need for further Government intervention once they are complete.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043066%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226518","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226518"}},{"id":"226517","reference":"AQW 43065/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-02","answerBy":"2015-03-18","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"In regard to appointments that Multiple Sclerosis patients have with Consultant Neurologists, decisions about the referral of individual patients to specialist services for treatment are a matter of clinical judgement to be taken by healthcare professionals based on clinical needs.\n\nInformation on the number of appointments that Multiple Sclerosis Patients, in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, have had with a Consultant Neurologists MS Specialist, is not available. It is not possible to separately identify those patients with Multiple Sclerosis from all patients who attend the general neurology specialty.\n\nInformation on the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust is not available. Information, however, is available on the number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of the month.\n\nThe number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of February 2015, the most recent data available, is shown in the table below. This data is broken down by Trust of Residence.\n\nNumber of patients on treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at 28th February 2015\n\nHSC Trust of residence\tNo. of patients on treatment\nBelfast\t247\nNorthern\t436\nSouth Eastern\t344\nSouthern\t275\nWestern\t253\nNorthern Ireland\t1,555\n\nSource: Belfast HSC Trust","answerHtml":"In regard to appointments that Multiple Sclerosis patients have with Consultant Neurologists, decisions about the referral of individual patients to specialist services for treatment are a matter of clinical judgement to be taken by healthcare professionals based on clinical needs.
Information on the number of appointments that Multiple Sclerosis Patients, in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, have had with a Consultant Neurologists MS Specialist, is not available. It is not possible to separately identify those patients with Multiple Sclerosis from all patients who attend the general neurology specialty.
Information on the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust is not available. Information, however, is available on the number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of the month.
The number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of February 2015, the most recent data available, is shown in the table below. This data is broken down by Trust of Residence.
Number of patients on treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at 28th February 2015
| HSC Trust of residence | No. of patients on treatment |
| Belfast | 247 |
| Northern | 436 |
| South Eastern | 344 |
| Southern | 275 |
| Western | 253 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,555 |
Source: Belfast HSC Trust
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043065%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226517","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226517"}},{"id":"226516","reference":"AQW 43064/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-03-02","answerBy":"2015-03-18","answered":"2015-03-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the number of appointments that Multiple Sclerosis Patients, in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, have had with a Consultant Neurologists MS Specialist, in the last two years.","answerText":"In regard to appointments that Multiple Sclerosis patients have with Consultant Neurologists, decisions about the referral of individual patients to specialist services for treatment are a matter of clinical judgement to be taken by healthcare professionals based on clinical needs.\n\nInformation on the number of appointments that Multiple Sclerosis Patients, in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, have had with a Consultant Neurologists MS Specialist, is not available. It is not possible to separately identify those patients with Multiple Sclerosis from all patients who attend the general neurology specialty.\n\nInformation on the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust is not available. Information, however, is available on the number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of the month.\n\nThe number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of February 2015, the most recent data available, is shown in the table below. This data is broken down by Trust of Residence.\n\nNumber of patients on treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at 28th February 2015\n\nHSC Trust of residence\tNo. of patients on treatment\nBelfast\t247\nNorthern\t436\nSouth Eastern\t344\nSouthern\t275\nWestern\t253\nNorthern Ireland\t1,555\n\nSource: Belfast HSC Trust","answerHtml":"In regard to appointments that Multiple Sclerosis patients have with Consultant Neurologists, decisions about the referral of individual patients to specialist services for treatment are a matter of clinical judgement to be taken by healthcare professionals based on clinical needs.
Information on the number of appointments that Multiple Sclerosis Patients, in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, have had with a Consultant Neurologists MS Specialist, is not available. It is not possible to separately identify those patients with Multiple Sclerosis from all patients who attend the general neurology specialty.
Information on the number of people diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in each Health and Social Care Trust is not available. Information, however, is available on the number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of the month.
The number of people receiving treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at the end of February 2015, the most recent data available, is shown in the table below. This data is broken down by Trust of Residence.
Number of patients on treatment for Multiple Sclerosis at 28th February 2015
| HSC Trust of residence | No. of patients on treatment |
| Belfast | 247 |
| Northern | 436 |
| South Eastern | 344 |
| Southern | 275 |
| Western | 253 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,555 |
Source: Belfast HSC Trust
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043064%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226516"}},{"id":"226429","reference":"AQW 43008/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-27","answerBy":"2015-03-16","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of a Civic Forum as a realistic mechanism for promoting the views of, and engaging with, civic society.","answerText":"A civic advisory panel, as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement, is intended to provide a basis for engaging with civil society on key social, cultural and economic issues and to advise the Executive.","answerHtml":"A civic advisory panel, as proposed in the Stormont House Agreement, is intended to provide a basis for engaging with civil society on key social, cultural and economic issues and to advise the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043008%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226429","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226429"}},{"id":"226427","reference":"AQW 43006/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-27","answerBy":"2015-03-16","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether powers of community planning, as transferred to the new council structures, will create space for a Civic Forum, as outlined in Strand One of the Good Friday Agreement.","answerText":"The Civic Forum referred to in the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement was given a statutory basis by section 56 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 with a remit of providing views to the First Minister and deputy First Minister on social, economic and cultural matters. The Forum operated between 2000 and 2002. It was not reconvened when devolution was restored in 2007.\n\nThe purpose of the community planning process set out in Part 10 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 is to identify long-term objectives for improving the social, economic and environmental well-being of a local government district and for how the district can contribute to achieving sustainable development in Northern Ireland, together with actions and functions necessary to meet those objectives. The objectives of the community planning process are substantially different from those of the former Civic Forum.\n\nThe Stormont House Agreement provides for the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel as the new model for civic engagement on key social, cultural and economic issues and to advise the Executive.","answerHtml":"The Civic Forum referred to in the Belfast (Good Friday) Agreement was given a statutory basis by section 56 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 with a remit of providing views to the First Minister and deputy First Minister on social, economic and cultural matters. The Forum operated between 2000 and 2002. It was not reconvened when devolution was restored in 2007.
The purpose of the community planning process set out in Part 10 of the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 is to identify long-term objectives for improving the social, economic and environmental well-being of a local government district and for how the district can contribute to achieving sustainable development in Northern Ireland, together with actions and functions necessary to meet those objectives. The objectives of the community planning process are substantially different from those of the former Civic Forum.
The Stormont House Agreement provides for the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel as the new model for civic engagement on key social, cultural and economic issues and to advise the Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043006%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226427","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226427"}},{"id":"226425","reference":"AQW 43005/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-27","answerBy":"2015-03-16","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the outcome of the 2008 review of the Civic Forum, including any conclusions reached.","answerText":"The review of the Civic Forum and of arrangements for engaging with civic society was commissioned in 2007 by the then First Minister and deputy First Minister. Responses received during the consultation phase of the review did not suggest a widespread desire for a return to a structure of the size and expense of the Forum, as it had previously operated.","answerHtml":"The review of the Civic Forum and of arrangements for engaging with civic society was commissioned in 2007 by the then First Minister and deputy First Minister. Responses received during the consultation phase of the review did not suggest a widespread desire for a return to a structure of the size and expense of the Forum, as it had previously operated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043005%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226425","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226425"}},{"id":"226424","reference":"AQW 43004/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-27","answerBy":"2015-03-16","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on plans to establish a compact civic advisory panel, as envisaged during the Stormont House Agreement discussions.","answerText":"The arrangements for taking forward the commitment in the Stormont House Agreement relating to the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel are currently being considered by Executive party leaders.","answerHtml":"The arrangements for taking forward the commitment in the Stormont House Agreement relating to the establishment of a compact civic advisory panel are currently being considered by Executive party leaders.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2043004%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226424","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226424"}},{"id":"226258","reference":"AQW 42923/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-26","answerBy":"2015-03-13","answered":"2015-03-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 42397/11-15, what support, financial and other, her Department offers to Business Action Plans emerging from the Rural Youth Entrepreneurship Programme, to ensure that they are viable long-term initiatives.","answerText":"The Rural Youth Entrepreneurship (RYE) programme operates a referral network for participants, who have completed their Business Action Plan and who wish to develop their business idea further.\n\nRYE has referred those with completed Business Action Plans to local enterprise agencies and support organisations as relevant to the business idea. In terms of DARD support, individuals can be referred to DARD’s College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) or Local Action Groups who will deliver the Rural Business Investment measure of the new Rural Development programme.","answerHtml":"The Rural Youth Entrepreneurship (RYE) programme operates a referral network for participants, who have completed their Business Action Plan and who wish to develop their business idea further.
RYE has referred those with completed Business Action Plans to local enterprise agencies and support organisations as relevant to the business idea. In terms of DARD support, individuals can be referred to DARD’s College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) or Local Action Groups who will deliver the Rural Business Investment measure of the new Rural Development programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042923%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226258"}},{"id":"226257","reference":"AQW 42922/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-26","answerBy":"2015-03-04","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning when staff in the Northern Regional College will receive their 2014/2015 incremental pay award.","answerText":"The current ESF Programme 2007-2013 has a financial allocation of €189,777,300 which is fully committed.\n\nThere is no projected underspend at this time for the current ESF Programme 2007-2013.\n\nThere are no plans to extend the current ESF Programme. All expenditure under the Programme must have been incurred and the process of claiming it from the Commission, including all verification and audit work, must be completed by the end of 2015.\n\nMy Department has applied the Freedom of Information Act 2000 Section 43 (commercial interests) to the applicants that have applied to the ESF Programme and, therefore, I am unable to provide detailed information on further education colleges applications.","answerHtml":"The current ESF Programme 2007-2013 has a financial allocation of €189,777,300 which is fully committed.
There is no projected underspend at this time for the current ESF Programme 2007-2013.
There are no plans to extend the current ESF Programme. All expenditure under the Programme must have been incurred and the process of claiming it from the Commission, including all verification and audit work, must be completed by the end of 2015.
My Department has applied the Freedom of Information Act 2000 Section 43 (commercial interests) to the applicants that have applied to the ESF Programme and, therefore, I am unable to provide detailed information on further education colleges applications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042922%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226257"}},{"id":"226256","reference":"AQW 42921/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-26","answerBy":"2015-03-13","answered":"2015-04-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes are preventing and addressing mental ill-health as a priority.","answerText":"Delivering Social Change is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits that deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages, with a particular focus on improving children and young people’s health, well being and life opportunities and breaking the long-term cycle of multi-generational problems.\n\nThe Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes are part of this process and their social benefits are multifaceted. The Signature Programmes will potentially either help prevent, or address head on, the mental ill-health of our children and young people, and their families.\n\nA range of holistic interventions are being provided, under these Signature Programmes, to encourage re-engagement in education, training or employment to enhance prospects to become full participants in society. These include a series of family support measures for those children, young people and their mothers and fathers vulnerable to, or directly experiencing, mental ill-health.","answerHtml":"Delivering Social Change is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits that deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages, with a particular focus on improving children and young people’s health, well being and life opportunities and breaking the long-term cycle of multi-generational problems.
The Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes are part of this process and their social benefits are multifaceted. The Signature Programmes will potentially either help prevent, or address head on, the mental ill-health of our children and young people, and their families.
A range of holistic interventions are being provided, under these Signature Programmes, to encourage re-engagement in education, training or employment to enhance prospects to become full participants in society. These include a series of family support measures for those children, young people and their mothers and fathers vulnerable to, or directly experiencing, mental ill-health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042921%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226256"}},{"id":"226255","reference":"AQW 42920/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-26","answerBy":"2015-03-13","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 41549/11-15, to define the geographical remit of the North West.","answerText":"We refer you to our answer of 17 February 2015. The Regional Opportunities Ministerial Sub-Group will consider the economic needs of the wider region and not just the North West.","answerHtml":"We refer you to our answer of 17 February 2015. The Regional Opportunities Ministerial Sub-Group will consider the economic needs of the wider region and not just the North West.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042920%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226255"}},{"id":"226253","reference":"AQW 42919/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-26","answerBy":"2015-03-13","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the Support For Parents Delivering Social Change Signature Programme, including the number of families who have benefited from this programme since 2012.","answerText":"Significant progress continues to be made on four parenting support programmes being delivered through the Public Health Agency (PHA) as part of the Delivering Social Change programme. These provide additional high quality support to new and existing parents living in areas of deprivation through positive parenting programmes.\n\nTwo of the four programmes are delivered direct to families. By the end of December 2014 26 Parenting Your Teen programmes have been delivered to 313 parents and 632 children, with 89% of families completing the programme. A further 117 families had completed the Strengthening Families programme.\n\nThe remaining two programmes aim to improve the quality of services delivered to families. Funding is being used to increase the number of organisations who deliver the Incredible Years programme in NI to the highest quality and adherence to programme fidelity standards. In addition, by the end of December 2014, a total of 342 early years and HSC professionals had undertaken Infant Mental Health training through one of 3 new training programmes being funded. The investment in Infant Mental Health Training has also enabled the establishment of a regional Infant Mental Health Plan that will determine the level of investment required beyond the current scale of training resourced under Delivering Social Change.","answerHtml":"Significant progress continues to be made on four parenting support programmes being delivered through the Public Health Agency (PHA) as part of the Delivering Social Change programme. These provide additional high quality support to new and existing parents living in areas of deprivation through positive parenting programmes.
Two of the four programmes are delivered direct to families. By the end of December 2014 26 Parenting Your Teen programmes have been delivered to 313 parents and 632 children, with 89% of families completing the programme. A further 117 families had completed the Strengthening Families programme.
The remaining two programmes aim to improve the quality of services delivered to families. Funding is being used to increase the number of organisations who deliver the Incredible Years programme in NI to the highest quality and adherence to programme fidelity standards. In addition, by the end of December 2014, a total of 342 early years and HSC professionals had undertaken Infant Mental Health training through one of 3 new training programmes being funded. The investment in Infant Mental Health Training has also enabled the establishment of a regional Infant Mental Health Plan that will determine the level of investment required beyond the current scale of training resourced under Delivering Social Change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042919%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226253","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226253"}},{"id":"226071","reference":"AQO 7788/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-26","answerBy":"2015-03-10","answered":"2015-03-10","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the efficiency of the current Access Northern Ireland system.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Ford","text":"Access NI issues all applications for standard and basic checks within three to five days, and over 70% of enhanced applications are issued in six to eight days. Given that 125,000 applications are made to Access NI each year, I believe that that is a good indicator of efficiency. That said, some cases take longer. Those are cases that are referred to the police for consideration. The vast bulk of those are also turned around efficiently, but I acknowledge, as does the PSNI, that delays are occurring and that they can be significant at times. Mindful of the impact on applicants who are unable to secure positions of employment without an Access NI check, my officials are working closely with the PSNI to reduce the delays being experienced by a small minority of applicants. The PSNI has approved additional resources for that work, but it will take time to effect the necessary improvements and reduce the current backlog."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for his answer, but I was actually referring to the inefficiency of having to get a new Access NI form for every organisation that you are involved with. That is ridiculous, and it places a heavy burden on the community and voluntary sector in particular. In light of that, how has the Minister consulted the community and voluntary sector?"},{"speaker":"Mr Ford","text":"I entirely agree with Ms Sugden. Before the change of the last Westminster Government and during the first year of the devolution of justice, work was being done to look at a portable check. However, that was changed because of changes in the Home Office that meant that we could not proceed on the timescale that we had hoped. We have included provisions for the introduction of a portable check in the Justice Bill, which is at Committee Stage. Perhaps Ms Sugden would like to ask the Chair of the Committee how speedily he will progress that. It is clear that we need to move to a portable check as soon as possible, although it may not be available until some time during the next calendar year because of the issues that need to be addressed to tie the system to the available resources. We will also look at the charges. In England and Wales, it costs £13 to be annually registered, which is somewhat less than the current one-off fee in Northern Ireland. However, it will continue to be free for those who use the check purely for volunteering purposes."},{"speaker":"","text":"I would hope that we would see progress arising from the work that is being done by my officials in parallel with the progress of the Bill, but, clearly and unfortunately, it will be 2016 before we see it in place."},{"speaker":"Mr Principal Deputy Speaker","text":"Mr Trevor Lunn is not in his place."},{"speaker":"Mr McCarthy","text":"I am delighted that the Minister continues to answer questions briefly and succinctly because it brings us up to question 14."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207788%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=226071","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-03-10&docID=226893#AQO%207788/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=226071"}},{"id":"225994","reference":"AQW 42848/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-25","answerBy":"2015-03-12","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the Joint Ministerial Initiative, the Portrush Regeneration Strategy Western Peninsula; and to detail how they are providing indoor leisure facilities in Portrush.","answerText":"My Department has taken the lead in a number of regeneration initiatives in Portrush over the past few years and has provided investment to allow Coleraine Borough Council to complete several public realm improvement schemes.\n\nThe announcement that Royal Portrush Golf club will host the Open Championship as early as 2019 brings with it huge opportunities not only for Portrush but also for the wider Northern Ireland economy. To make the most of these opportunities however it is recognised that a number of major infrastructure projects would need to be delivered. This includes projects like the development of the harbour, the re-location of the train station and potentially the development of a 4* hotel.\n\nTo help progress this programme of works a Ministerial sub-group has been formed to include those Departments who would have input into the decision making process in the above projects. The Ministerial sub-group has representation from DSD, DETI, DRD and DOE. My assessment is that the arrangements have delivered a number of key improvements in Portrush over the past five years and offer an effective mechanism to take forward other prioposals to regenerate the resort.\n\nNeither the Ministerial Sub-Group collectively nor my Department individually have a role in the provision of indoor leisure facilities in Portrush. This is a responsibility which falls to the local Council.","answerHtml":"My Department has taken the lead in a number of regeneration initiatives in Portrush over the past few years and has provided investment to allow Coleraine Borough Council to complete several public realm improvement schemes.
The announcement that Royal Portrush Golf club will host the Open Championship as early as 2019 brings with it huge opportunities not only for Portrush but also for the wider Northern Ireland economy. To make the most of these opportunities however it is recognised that a number of major infrastructure projects would need to be delivered. This includes projects like the development of the harbour, the re-location of the train station and potentially the development of a 4* hotel.
To help progress this programme of works a Ministerial sub-group has been formed to include those Departments who would have input into the decision making process in the above projects. The Ministerial sub-group has representation from DSD, DETI, DRD and DOE. My assessment is that the arrangements have delivered a number of key improvements in Portrush over the past five years and offer an effective mechanism to take forward other prioposals to regenerate the resort.
Neither the Ministerial Sub-Group collectively nor my Department individually have a role in the provision of indoor leisure facilities in Portrush. This is a responsibility which falls to the local Council.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042848%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225994","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225994"}},{"id":"225993","reference":"AQW 42847/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-25","answerBy":"2015-03-12","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current health provision to treat and support people who are recovering from eating disorders; and what funding has been allocated to programmes and facilities that provide this care, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Eating Disorder Services are provided through a stepped care approach which ranges from early detection and intervention, to community-based treatment, to specialist inpatient provision.\nCommunity-based Specialist Eating Disorder Services are available across all five HSC Trusts (with Belfast Trust providing services for the South Eastern Trust) for both adults and children and young people.\nInpatient treatment for adults with an eating disorder is facilitated in existing hospitals with in-reach support provided by specialist community-based eating disorder teams. This ensures a continuum of care when patients are discharged.\nInpatient care for children and adolescents with eating disorders is usually provided at Beechcroft, the Regional Child and Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Unit. If the patient’s condition is primarily physical, clinicians may decide that the best place for treatment is an acute hospital setting.\nIf a patient requires more intense specialist treatment for anorexia, Trusts can access beds in England, Scotland and Ireland through the Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process.\nA total of £2 million per annum is allocated to specialist Eating Disorder Services, and this has been the case since 2008/09. This figure does not include inpatient care or the cost of treatment for eating disorders provided outside Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"| Eating Disorder Services are provided through a stepped care approach which ranges from early detection and intervention, to community-based treatment, to specialist inpatient provision. Community-based Specialist Eating Disorder Services are available across all five HSC Trusts (with Belfast Trust providing services for the South Eastern Trust) for both adults and children and young people. Inpatient treatment for adults with an eating disorder is facilitated in existing hospitals with in-reach support provided by specialist community-based eating disorder teams. This ensures a continuum of care when patients are discharged. Inpatient care for children and adolescents with eating disorders is usually provided at Beechcroft, the Regional Child and Adolescent Mental Health Inpatient Unit. If the patient’s condition is primarily physical, clinicians may decide that the best place for treatment is an acute hospital setting. If a patient requires more intense specialist treatment for anorexia, Trusts can access beds in England, Scotland and Ireland through the Extra Contractual Referral (ECR) process. A total of £2 million per annum is allocated to specialist Eating Disorder Services, and this has been the case since 2008/09. This figure does not include inpatient care or the cost of treatment for eating disorders provided outside Northern Ireland. |
A total of 114 applications were successful including 38 from DVA surplus staff, and 76 from non-surplus staff thereby creating suitable vacancies into which surplus staff could be redeployed. As a result, 110 DVA surpluses (headcount) within the designated area were released or redeployed.
The Scheme has now closed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042846%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225992","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225992"}},{"id":"225991","reference":"AQW 42845/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-25","answerBy":"2015-03-12","answered":"2015-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the expected timeframe for the roll out of Age Discrimination legislation.","answerText":"We made a Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015, announcing our decision to bring forward proposals to prohibit unfair age discrimination against people aged 16 and over by those providing goods, facilities and services.\n\nSubject to Executive agreement, we intend to issue a consultation document in the spring, setting out our policy proposals on this matter. Following consultation, we will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"We made a Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015, announcing our decision to bring forward proposals to prohibit unfair age discrimination against people aged 16 and over by those providing goods, facilities and services.
Subject to Executive agreement, we intend to issue a consultation document in the spring, setting out our policy proposals on this matter. Following consultation, we will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042845%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225991","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225991"}},{"id":"225990","reference":"AQW 42844/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-25","answerBy":"2015-03-12","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the role of the programme board overseeing the strategic implementation of Portrush Regeneration Strategy initiatives, including; (i) how many times they have met since 2013; (ii) which Departments and agencies were represented at meetings; and (iii) the outcomes of these meetings.","answerText":"The Portrush Regeneration Programme Board was established in October 2013. The purpose of the Board is to oversee the implementation of the family of projects to be delivered in Portrush. This will involve ensuring that projects are started at the appropriate time, that proper management arrangements have been put in place and that they are meeting their key milestones and targets. The Programme Board will also identify and analyse the interdependencies between the projects – for example, where delays on one project might affect another – and ensure that arrangements are put in place to effectively manage and co-ordinate these so that the overall objectives of the Programme are met.\n\n(i)The Programme Board has met on 4 occasions: 30 October 2013; 31 January 2014; 10 April 2014; and 10 November 2014.\n\n(ii)The meetings of the Programme Board were attended by senior staff from the Department for Social Development, Coleraine Borough Council, the Department of the Environment’s Planning Service and Marine Divisions, the Department of regional Development’s Roads Service, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the Strategic Investment Board\n\n(iii)Outcomes of the meetings were as follows:\n\nThe meeting of 30 October 2013 agreed the purpose, scope and membership of the Programme and the structure of the relationship between the Programme Board and Projects Boards which will be established to manage the individual projects to be delivered.\n\nThe meeting held on 31 January agreed a draft vision and set of regeneration objectives for consideration by Ministers.\n\nThe meeting held on 10 April 2014 defined the projects to be included within the Programme, agreed the first draft of the risk register for the programme and discussed the draft terms of reference for a hotel feasibility study.\n\nThe meeting held on 10 November 2014 considered an initial draft of the terms of reference for a study to examine the options around a proposal for the redevelopment of Portrush Harbour and the content of a paper on the way forward for the regeneration of Portrush which I propose to issue to the Executive in the near future.","answerHtml":"The Portrush Regeneration Programme Board was established in October 2013. The purpose of the Board is to oversee the implementation of the family of projects to be delivered in Portrush. This will involve ensuring that projects are started at the appropriate time, that proper management arrangements have been put in place and that they are meeting their key milestones and targets. The Programme Board will also identify and analyse the interdependencies between the projects – for example, where delays on one project might affect another – and ensure that arrangements are put in place to effectively manage and co-ordinate these so that the overall objectives of the Programme are met.
(i)The Programme Board has met on 4 occasions: 30 October 2013; 31 January 2014; 10 April 2014; and 10 November 2014.
(ii)The meetings of the Programme Board were attended by senior staff from the Department for Social Development, Coleraine Borough Council, the Department of the Environment’s Planning Service and Marine Divisions, the Department of regional Development’s Roads Service, the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and the Strategic Investment Board
(iii)Outcomes of the meetings were as follows:
The meeting of 30 October 2013 agreed the purpose, scope and membership of the Programme and the structure of the relationship between the Programme Board and Projects Boards which will be established to manage the individual projects to be delivered.
The meeting held on 31 January agreed a draft vision and set of regeneration objectives for consideration by Ministers.
The meeting held on 10 April 2014 defined the projects to be included within the Programme, agreed the first draft of the risk register for the programme and discussed the draft terms of reference for a hotel feasibility study.
The meeting held on 10 November 2014 considered an initial draft of the terms of reference for a study to examine the options around a proposal for the redevelopment of Portrush Harbour and the content of a paper on the way forward for the regeneration of Portrush which I propose to issue to the Executive in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042844%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225990","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225990"}},{"id":"225669","reference":"AQW 42770/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-24","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what additional support her Department can offer to businesses in the hospitality industry in rural areas to provide greater access to broadband services.","answerText":"My Department is currently implementing the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project (NIBIP). The project is progressing according to schedule and by 31 December 2014 just over 17,500 homes and business premises across Northern Ireland had benefited from the improvements.\n\nBy project completion in December 2015, it is anticipated that improvements will have been delivered for at least 45,000 homes and businesses across Northern Ireland, resulting in the provision of basic wire-line broadband services of at least 2 Megabits per second in areas that previously had no service and improvements in the availability of superfast fixed-line broadband services (24 Megabits per second or higher) in areas where choice is poor or broadband speeds are low.\n\nIn addition, my Department has just signed a contract with BT for the Superfast Roll-out Programme Phase 2 (SRP2) project, which seeks to further increase the coverage of superfast broadband services across Northern Ireland by 2017.\n\nBusiness premises, within the Belfast and Londonderry Council area, who meet the eligibility criteria at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/superconnected-cities/\n\ncan apply for vouchers up to the value £3,000, to cover the cost of high speed broadband installation from the Super-connected Cities Programme, managed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.\n\nThis Programme is being extended to include other council areas. This presents an opportunity for our new Super-Councils to apply for a voucher scheme, similar to that which exists in the Belfast and Londonderry Council areas.\n\nMy Department facilitated an information event on 23 February 2015 to provide council representatives with further details.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently implementing the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project (NIBIP). The project is progressing according to schedule and by 31 December 2014 just over 17,500 homes and business premises across Northern Ireland had benefited from the improvements.
By project completion in December 2015, it is anticipated that improvements will have been delivered for at least 45,000 homes and businesses across Northern Ireland, resulting in the provision of basic wire-line broadband services of at least 2 Megabits per second in areas that previously had no service and improvements in the availability of superfast fixed-line broadband services (24 Megabits per second or higher) in areas where choice is poor or broadband speeds are low.
In addition, my Department has just signed a contract with BT for the Superfast Roll-out Programme Phase 2 (SRP2) project, which seeks to further increase the coverage of superfast broadband services across Northern Ireland by 2017.
Business premises, within the Belfast and Londonderry Council area, who meet the eligibility criteria at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/superconnected-cities/
can apply for vouchers up to the value £3,000, to cover the cost of high speed broadband installation from the Super-connected Cities Programme, managed by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
This Programme is being extended to include other council areas. This presents an opportunity for our new Super-Councils to apply for a voucher scheme, similar to that which exists in the Belfast and Londonderry Council areas.
My Department facilitated an information event on 23 February 2015 to provide council representatives with further details.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042770%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225669"}},{"id":"225656","reference":"AQW 42769/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-24","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the specific role of the Northern Ireland Volunteer Bureau Initiative.","answerText":"The Volunteer Development Agency was originally funded to administer revenue core funding to 15 Volunteer Centres across Northern Ireland under the Volunteer Bureaux Initiative (VBI).\n\nFollowing an evaluation of Volunteer Bureaux Initiative new arrangements were developed to support volunteering infrastructure across Northern Ireland and the Volunteer Bureaux Initiative ceased to exist on 30 September 2013.","answerHtml":"The Volunteer Development Agency was originally funded to administer revenue core funding to 15 Volunteer Centres across Northern Ireland under the Volunteer Bureaux Initiative (VBI).
Following an evaluation of Volunteer Bureaux Initiative new arrangements were developed to support volunteering infrastructure across Northern Ireland and the Volunteer Bureaux Initiative ceased to exist on 30 September 2013.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042769%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225656"}},{"id":"225655","reference":"AQW 42768/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-24","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the current Volunteer Strategy for Northern Ireland; and whether it is on schedule to meet all of its objectives by 2016.","answerText":"Launched in March 2012 the 5 year volunteering strategy aims to provide the conditions which enables volunteering to flourish and ensure its impact on life in Northern Ireland is maximised.\n\nIn order to determine if the strategy is on schedule to deliver on its objectives my department has commissioned independent consultants to carry out an interim evaluation. This will provide an assessment of the strategy and whether it is on schedule to meet all of its objectives by 2016. This evaluation is planned to be completed by April 2015.","answerHtml":"Launched in March 2012 the 5 year volunteering strategy aims to provide the conditions which enables volunteering to flourish and ensure its impact on life in Northern Ireland is maximised.
In order to determine if the strategy is on schedule to deliver on its objectives my department has commissioned independent consultants to carry out an interim evaluation. This will provide an assessment of the strategy and whether it is on schedule to meet all of its objectives by 2016. This evaluation is planned to be completed by April 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042768%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225655"}},{"id":"225654","reference":"AQW 42767/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-24","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of applicants registered on the social housing waiting list at the end of the last quarter, broken down by council.","answerText":"The table attached, provided by the Housing Executive, details the total number of applicants registered on the housing waiting list for social housing at the 31 December 2014, broken down by council.\n\nCouncil Area\tTotal Applicants on Waiting List at 31.12.14\tApplicants in\nHousing Stress at 31.12.14\nBelfast City Council\t10,029\t5,930\nAntrim Borough Council\t898\t483\nBallymena Borough Council\t1,410\t871\nBallymoney Borough Council\t458\t218\nCarrickfergus Borough Council\t858\t491\nColeraine Borough Council\t1,240\t657\nDerry City Council\t3,334\t2,341\nLarne Borough Council\t479\t176\nLimavady Borough Council\t474\t206\nMagherafelt District Council\t469\t201\nMoyle District Council\t342\t189\nNewtownabbey Borough Council\t1,677\t1,003\nStrabane District Council\t678\t322\nArmagh City & District Council\t723\t302\nBanbridge District Council\t534\t246\nCastlereagh Borough Council\t1,193\t540\nCookstown District Council\t360\t164\nCraigavon Borough Council\t1,716\t602\nDown District Council\t1,486\t822\nDungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council\t1,052\t620\nFermanagh District Council\t774\t307\nLisburn City Council\t2,436\t1,485\nNewry and Mourne District Council\t2,050\t1,254\nArds Borough Council\t1,687\t927\nNorth Down Borough Council\t1,796\t1,060\nOmagh District Council\t626\t181\nTotal\t38,779\t21,598\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The table attached, provided by the Housing Executive, details the total number of applicants registered on the housing waiting list for social housing at the 31 December 2014, broken down by council.
| Council Area | Total Applicants on Waiting List at 31.12.14 | Applicants in Housing Stress at 31.12.14 |
| Belfast City Council | 10,029 | 5,930 |
| Antrim Borough Council | 898 | 483 |
| Ballymena Borough Council | 1,410 | 871 |
| Ballymoney Borough Council | 458 | 218 |
| Carrickfergus Borough Council | 858 | 491 |
| Coleraine Borough Council | 1,240 | 657 |
| Derry City Council | 3,334 | 2,341 |
| Larne Borough Council | 479 | 176 |
| Limavady Borough Council | 474 | 206 |
| Magherafelt District Council | 469 | 201 |
| Moyle District Council | 342 | 189 |
| Newtownabbey Borough Council | 1,677 | 1,003 |
| Strabane District Council | 678 | 322 |
| Armagh City & District Council | 723 | 302 |
| Banbridge District Council | 534 | 246 |
| Castlereagh Borough Council | 1,193 | 540 |
| Cookstown District Council | 360 | 164 |
| Craigavon Borough Council | 1,716 | 602 |
| Down District Council | 1,486 | 822 |
| Dungannon and South Tyrone Borough Council | 1,052 | 620 |
| Fermanagh District Council | 774 | 307 |
| Lisburn City Council | 2,436 | 1,485 |
| Newry and Mourne District Council | 2,050 | 1,254 |
| Ards Borough Council | 1,687 | 927 |
| North Down Borough Council | 1,796 | 1,060 |
| Omagh District Council | 626 | 181 |
| Total | 38,779 | 21,598 |
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042767%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225654"}},{"id":"225644","reference":"AQW 42766/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-24","answerBy":"2015-03-11","answered":"2015-03-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the funding allocated to each volunteer centre in Northern Ireland by the Volunteer Bureau Initiative, since 2012, broken down by centre.","answerText":"Following an evaluation of Volunteer Bureaux Initiative new arrangements were developed to support volunteering infrastructure across Northern Ireland and the Volunteer Bureaux Initiative ceased to exist on 30 September 2013.\n\nThe requested information is only available by financial year and includes funding for Small Grants.\n\nFunding Programme Title\tOrganisation Name\tGrant Award Amount\n\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tCauseway Volunteer Centre\t£75,778.40\n\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tCookstown & Magherafelt Volunteer Centre\t£71,244.00\n\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tCraigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre\t£74,335.00\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tLimavady Volunteer Centre\t£62,744.00\n\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tNorth West Volunteer Centre\t£131,295.00\n\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tOmagh Volunteer Centre\t£60,808.20\n\nVolunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013\tVolunteer Now\t£992,420.87\n\n£1,468,625.47","answerHtml":"Following an evaluation of Volunteer Bureaux Initiative new arrangements were developed to support volunteering infrastructure across Northern Ireland and the Volunteer Bureaux Initiative ceased to exist on 30 September 2013.
The requested information is only available by financial year and includes funding for Small Grants.
| Funding Programme Title | Organisation Name | Grant Award Amount |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | Causeway Volunteer Centre | £75,778.40 |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | Cookstown & Magherafelt Volunteer Centre | £71,244.00 |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | Craigavon and Banbridge Volunteer Centre | £74,335.00 |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | Limavady Volunteer Centre | £62,744.00 |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | North West Volunteer Centre | £131,295.00 |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | Omagh Volunteer Centre | £60,808.20 |
| Volunteer Bureaux Initiative 2012 - 2013 | Volunteer Now | £992,420.87 |
| £1,468,625.47 |
All contracts for the redevelopment of the site for my new departmental headquarters at Ballykelly will be awarded through DFP’s Central Procurement Directorate (CPD) in line with Executive policy.
I can confirm that the contract for the ‘site enabling works’ has been awarded by CPD to a supplier with a base in Coleraine. This contract covers site clearance and demolition works.
I can also confirm that no contracts to date have been awarded to the third sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042725%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225505","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225505"}},{"id":"225492","reference":"AQW 42719/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-23","answerBy":"2015-03-10","answered":"2015-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 42202/11-15, to detail any specific training which is provided by the Central Procurement Directorate, for community and voluntary organisations, which offers financial advice and guidance on developing business plans and contract tendering.","answerText":"CPD does not directly provide any training to suppliers. It does however, publish procurement guidance notes on its website that aim, amongst other things, to help third sector organisations develop their capability to compete successfully for public sector contracts.\n\nCPD works closely with InterTradeIreland, and other partner organisations such as Invest NI, to ensure that resources and training are available that would potentially help community and voluntary sector suppliers compete for public sector contracts. More information on this is available on the websites of the respective organisations. CPD regularly provides speakers for tendering workshops provided by local councils and business network organisations such as the Federation of Small Businesses.","answerHtml":"CPD does not directly provide any training to suppliers. It does however, publish procurement guidance notes on its website that aim, amongst other things, to help third sector organisations develop their capability to compete successfully for public sector contracts.
CPD works closely with InterTradeIreland, and other partner organisations such as Invest NI, to ensure that resources and training are available that would potentially help community and voluntary sector suppliers compete for public sector contracts. More information on this is available on the websites of the respective organisations. CPD regularly provides speakers for tendering workshops provided by local councils and business network organisations such as the Federation of Small Businesses.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042719%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225492"}},{"id":"225491","reference":"AQW 42718/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-23","answerBy":"2015-03-10","answered":"2015-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has plans to extend a pilot scheme by his Department whereby extra funding was supplied for rural community pharmacies in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The pilot scheme was established and evaluated by the HSC Board and provided funding to support patient access to pharmacy services in predominantly rural areas.\n\nI have been advised by the Board that they have notified the pharmacies involved that the pilot has reached a conclusion and that the Board is now considering next steps in conjunction with Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI). The Board expects that there will now be a transitional phase and a move to a longer–term arrangement to support the delivery of pharmaceutical services in rural areas.","answerHtml":"The pilot scheme was established and evaluated by the HSC Board and provided funding to support patient access to pharmacy services in predominantly rural areas.
I have been advised by the Board that they have notified the pharmacies involved that the pilot has reached a conclusion and that the Board is now considering next steps in conjunction with Community Pharmacy NI (CPNI). The Board expects that there will now be a transitional phase and a move to a longer–term arrangement to support the delivery of pharmaceutical services in rural areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042718%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225491","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225491"}},{"id":"225490","reference":"AQW 42717/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-23","answerBy":"2015-03-10","answered":"2015-03-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 42202/11-15, to detail the percentage of government procurement spend which has been with Small and Medium Enterprises, in each year, since 2011.","answerText":"CPD publishes an annual Procurement Activity Report, which details the value of contracts awarded by the Centres of Procurement Expertise to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).\n\nSMEs won 56% of the value of contracts awarded in the 2011/2012 year and 62% in the 2012/2013 year. This equates to 80% of the number of contracts awarded in each year.\n\nThe Procurement Activity Report for the 2013/14 year is currently being compiled.","answerHtml":"CPD publishes an annual Procurement Activity Report, which details the value of contracts awarded by the Centres of Procurement Expertise to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
SMEs won 56% of the value of contracts awarded in the 2011/2012 year and 62% in the 2012/2013 year. This equates to 80% of the number of contracts awarded in each year.
The Procurement Activity Report for the 2013/14 year is currently being compiled.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042717%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225490","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225490"}},{"id":"225489","reference":"AQW 42716/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-23","answerBy":"2015-03-10","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the outcomes of the pilot scheme providing rural community pharmacies with extra funding.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board funded a pilot scheme to support access to pharmacy services in predominantly rural areas. The purpose of the pilot was to support patient access to pharmacy services and as such the pharmacies were required to provide services for a minimum of 40 hours per week over six days. A total of 74 pharmacies received funding.\n\nThe Board has completed an evaluation to assess the impact of the financial support. The evaluation has demonstrated that 9.4% of the pharmacies did not meet the requirement to provide services for a minimum of 40 hours per week over six days and that there was no increase in opening hours in 82% of the pilot pharmacies. However, the funding enabled 56% of pilot pharmacies to increase their staffing – primarily through an increase in pharmacy support staff hours.\n\nThe volume of dispensing increased by an average of 22% in pilot pharmacies, compared with an average increase of 18% across all other pharmacies. Twelve (16%) of the pharmacies reported that the funding had enabled them to remain open/financially viable.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board funded a pilot scheme to support access to pharmacy services in predominantly rural areas. The purpose of the pilot was to support patient access to pharmacy services and as such the pharmacies were required to provide services for a minimum of 40 hours per week over six days. A total of 74 pharmacies received funding.
The Board has completed an evaluation to assess the impact of the financial support. The evaluation has demonstrated that 9.4% of the pharmacies did not meet the requirement to provide services for a minimum of 40 hours per week over six days and that there was no increase in opening hours in 82% of the pilot pharmacies. However, the funding enabled 56% of pilot pharmacies to increase their staffing – primarily through an increase in pharmacy support staff hours.
The volume of dispensing increased by an average of 22% in pilot pharmacies, compared with an average increase of 18% across all other pharmacies. Twelve (16%) of the pharmacies reported that the funding had enabled them to remain open/financially viable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042716%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225489","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225489"}},{"id":"225258","reference":"AQW 42624/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-20","answerBy":"2015-03-09","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the eligibility criteria for the Broadband UK Connection Voucher Scheme.","answerText":"The Super-connected Cities Programme is managed by Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK), a unit within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.\n\nBusiness premises, within the Belfast and Londonderry council areas, who meet the eligibility criteria at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/superconnected-cities/\n\ncan apply for grants up to £3,000, to cover the cost of high speed broadband installation.\n\nThe Super-connected Cities Programme is being extended to include other council areas. This presents an opportunity for our new Super-Councils to apply for a voucher scheme, similar to those that exist in Belfast and Londonderry council areas.\n\nMy Department facilitated an information event on 23 February 2015 to advise council representatives of further details.","answerHtml":"The Super-connected Cities Programme is managed by Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK), a unit within the Department for Culture, Media and Sport.
Business premises, within the Belfast and Londonderry council areas, who meet the eligibility criteria at https://www.connectionvouchers.co.uk/superconnected-cities/
can apply for grants up to £3,000, to cover the cost of high speed broadband installation.
The Super-connected Cities Programme is being extended to include other council areas. This presents an opportunity for our new Super-Councils to apply for a voucher scheme, similar to those that exist in Belfast and Londonderry council areas.
My Department facilitated an information event on 23 February 2015 to advise council representatives of further details.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042624%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225258","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225258"}},{"id":"225257","reference":"AQW 42623/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-20","answerBy":"2015-03-09","answered":"2015-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the provision for low cost or free leisure and social activities which meet the needs of disabled children from low income families.","answerText":"There are a wide range of leisure and social activities supported by my Department that are available to disabled children from low income families.\n\nThe Libraries NI network provides accessible buildings with lifts, disabled toilets etc and provides a range of activities which are open to all children, regardless of disability including Rhythm and Rhyme for pre-school children/ families, Storytime, Craft sessions and special events such as author readings.\n\nLibrary membership is free and provides all children with access to a wide range of age appropriate books and other material. Libraries provide material from Clear Vision and Access to Books, specifically aimed at children with a visual impairment and material from Barrington Stoke which is specifically aimed at children with dyslexia. Audio book and eBooks are also widely used by children with disabilities.\n\nNational Museums provides free entry for people with disabilities and their carers to the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum and the Ulster American Folk Park. During April 2014-January 2015, over 4,500 people with disabilities and carers visited the two museums. Admission to the Ulster Museum is free for all.\n\nArts Council supports the core costs for several Arts & Disability organisations which provide activities for young people with disabilities. These include;\n\nDrake Music - provides access to music for people with disabilities using state of the art instruments. The organisation aims to provide free music programmes for children and young adults with disabilities as part of its 15/16 programme.\n\nOpen Arts – provides arts activities for disabled people, including young people, in music, visual arts, drama and creative writing. The organisation is working on a ‘Youth Development’ programme and has a partnership with disability organisations such as Angel Eyes and Autism NI.\n\nReplay Theatre Company - provides children an opportunity to experience live theatre and the arts. Replay’s ‘Up’ production focuses on young audiences with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD).\n\nStreetwise Community Circus – aims to make circus skills accessible to all communities and individuals. Streetwise has a focus on working with young people with disabilities and has established an annual ‘Circus Summer School’.\n\nKids in Control - this theatre company ‘values children and young people of all backgrounds and abilities, without discrimination’. The organisation runs inclusive theatre projects and has an established apprenticeship programme for young adults with disabilities.\n\nUnder the Recreation and Youth Service (NI) Order 1986, the provision of leisure services, including facilities for people with disabilities, rests in the first instance, with District Councils. However, Sport NI supports a range of interventions for people with a disability to participate in sport. These include:\n\n•Provision of a range of pan-disability activities and opportunities through Sport NI’s Disability Mainstreaming Policy delivered by Disability Sport NI;\n\n•An annual programme of activities delivered by Special Olympics Ireland for athletes with learning/intellectual disabilities benefitting approximately 1,700 individuals;\n\n•Delivery of the Active Communities programme in partnership with 11 District Council consortia (benefitting approximately 12,000 people with a disability);\n\n•In 2014/15, Sport NI invested with a variety of groups to provide free/low-cost opportunities for people with a disability to participate in sport through its small grants programme. These included groups such as Ulster Deaf Sports Council, NI Blindsport Network, Autism Initiative NI and the Coleraine & District Riding for the Disabled Association, amongst others.\n\nForas na Gaeilge runs a range of funding schemes which are openly advertised and available to all. When funding Campaí Samhraidh (Summer Camps) and Imeachtaí Óige (Youth Events) fees charged are monitored to ensure that these are not a barrier to participation.\n\nThe Ulster Scots Agency provides summer schemes in special schools which provide insight into Ulster Scots language, music and dance. These have taken place in Strabane, Fermanagh and Derry. Ulster Scots Music and dance schemes are also open to everyone including disabled children.\n\nWaterways Ireland provides opportunities for children with disabilities and those from low income families to access and use outdoor recreational facilities. All mooring facilities and amenity areas are designed in accordance with both universal design standards and its Access for Disabled Persons Policy and Procedures.","answerHtml":"There are a wide range of leisure and social activities supported by my Department that are available to disabled children from low income families.
The Libraries NI network provides accessible buildings with lifts, disabled toilets etc and provides a range of activities which are open to all children, regardless of disability including Rhythm and Rhyme for pre-school children/ families, Storytime, Craft sessions and special events such as author readings.
Library membership is free and provides all children with access to a wide range of age appropriate books and other material. Libraries provide material from Clear Vision and Access to Books, specifically aimed at children with a visual impairment and material from Barrington Stoke which is specifically aimed at children with dyslexia. Audio book and eBooks are also widely used by children with disabilities.
National Museums provides free entry for people with disabilities and their carers to the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum and the Ulster American Folk Park. During April 2014-January 2015, over 4,500 people with disabilities and carers visited the two museums. Admission to the Ulster Museum is free for all.
Arts Council supports the core costs for several Arts & Disability organisations which provide activities for young people with disabilities. These include;
Drake Music - provides access to music for people with disabilities using state of the art instruments. The organisation aims to provide free music programmes for children and young adults with disabilities as part of its 15/16 programme.
Open Arts – provides arts activities for disabled people, including young people, in music, visual arts, drama and creative writing. The organisation is working on a ‘Youth Development’ programme and has a partnership with disability organisations such as Angel Eyes and Autism NI.
Replay Theatre Company - provides children an opportunity to experience live theatre and the arts. Replay’s ‘Up’ production focuses on young audiences with Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD).
Streetwise Community Circus – aims to make circus skills accessible to all communities and individuals. Streetwise has a focus on working with young people with disabilities and has established an annual ‘Circus Summer School’.
Kids in Control - this theatre company ‘values children and young people of all backgrounds and abilities, without discrimination’. The organisation runs inclusive theatre projects and has an established apprenticeship programme for young adults with disabilities.
Under the Recreation and Youth Service (NI) Order 1986, the provision of leisure services, including facilities for people with disabilities, rests in the first instance, with District Councils. However, Sport NI supports a range of interventions for people with a disability to participate in sport. These include:
•Provision of a range of pan-disability activities and opportunities through Sport NI’s Disability Mainstreaming Policy delivered by Disability Sport NI;
•An annual programme of activities delivered by Special Olympics Ireland for athletes with learning/intellectual disabilities benefitting approximately 1,700 individuals;
•Delivery of the Active Communities programme in partnership with 11 District Council consortia (benefitting approximately 12,000 people with a disability);
•In 2014/15, Sport NI invested with a variety of groups to provide free/low-cost opportunities for people with a disability to participate in sport through its small grants programme. These included groups such as Ulster Deaf Sports Council, NI Blindsport Network, Autism Initiative NI and the Coleraine & District Riding for the Disabled Association, amongst others.
Foras na Gaeilge runs a range of funding schemes which are openly advertised and available to all. When funding Campaí Samhraidh (Summer Camps) and Imeachtaí Óige (Youth Events) fees charged are monitored to ensure that these are not a barrier to participation.
The Ulster Scots Agency provides summer schemes in special schools which provide insight into Ulster Scots language, music and dance. These have taken place in Strabane, Fermanagh and Derry. Ulster Scots Music and dance schemes are also open to everyone including disabled children.
Waterways Ireland provides opportunities for children with disabilities and those from low income families to access and use outdoor recreational facilities. All mooring facilities and amenity areas are designed in accordance with both universal design standards and its Access for Disabled Persons Policy and Procedures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042623%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225257"}},{"id":"225255","reference":"AQW 42622/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-20","answerBy":"2015-03-09","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure (i) to detail the role of the Sports Matters Monitoring Group; (ii) the date of its most recent meeting; and (iii) whether it has commissioned any reviews of the Sports Matters Strategy since 2011.","answerText":"i) The role of the Sports Matter Monitoring Group, as set out in Sport Matters Strategy for Sport & Physical Recreation 2009 – 2019, is to:\n\n•Bring together senior representatives of the Departments, agencies and organisations responsible for sport and recreation, health, education, employment, the natural and built environments and social development;\n\n•Agree mechanisms to secure the buy-in and delivery commitment of key partners and stakeholders including those in the community, voluntary and private sectors;\n\n•Monitor delivery of the commitments to sport and physical recreation set out within this Strategy;\n\n•Approve, monitor and evaluate detailed action plans developed by each Sport Matters Monitoring and Implementation Group;\n\n•Commission, or seek to have commissioned, periodic reviews of the Strategy; and to\n\n•Publish periodic progress reports.\n\nii) The most recent meeting of the Sport Matters Monitoring Group took place on 3 December 2014.\n\niii)The mid-term review of Sport Matters commenced in 2014 and the report is currently being finalised having been presented to the Sport Matters Monitoring and Implementation Groups and the CAL Committee.","answerHtml":"i) The role of the Sports Matter Monitoring Group, as set out in Sport Matters Strategy for Sport & Physical Recreation 2009 – 2019, is to:
•Bring together senior representatives of the Departments, agencies and organisations responsible for sport and recreation, health, education, employment, the natural and built environments and social development;
•Agree mechanisms to secure the buy-in and delivery commitment of key partners and stakeholders including those in the community, voluntary and private sectors;
•Monitor delivery of the commitments to sport and physical recreation set out within this Strategy;
•Approve, monitor and evaluate detailed action plans developed by each Sport Matters Monitoring and Implementation Group;
•Commission, or seek to have commissioned, periodic reviews of the Strategy; and to
•Publish periodic progress reports.
ii) The most recent meeting of the Sport Matters Monitoring Group took place on 3 December 2014.
iii)The mid-term review of Sport Matters commenced in 2014 and the report is currently being finalised having been presented to the Sport Matters Monitoring and Implementation Groups and the CAL Committee.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042622%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225255","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225255"}},{"id":"225242","reference":"AQW 42611/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-20","answerBy":"2015-03-09","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what recent engagement he has had with district councils in respect of utilising council space which will now be vacant following the reformed council structures, from April 2015.","answerText":"The rationalisation of the current configuration of 26 councils to create 11 new councils will require the transfer of ownership of council accommodation from the current councils to the new councils.\n\nProvisions have been included in the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 to facilitate the transfer of the legal title of the assets, and the liabilities associated with those assets, to the new local government structure without incurring any costs to either the existing or new councils.\n\nAny decision regarding the use of current council accommodation will be a matter for the new councils, and will be one of the issues that new councils should be considering. I have encouraged the new councils to be ambitious in how they can maximise the use of their estate to cut costs, whilst maintaining the levels of service that ratepayers deserve.","answerHtml":"The rationalisation of the current configuration of 26 councils to create 11 new councils will require the transfer of ownership of council accommodation from the current councils to the new councils.
Provisions have been included in the Local Government Act (NI) 2014 to facilitate the transfer of the legal title of the assets, and the liabilities associated with those assets, to the new local government structure without incurring any costs to either the existing or new councils.
Any decision regarding the use of current council accommodation will be a matter for the new councils, and will be one of the issues that new councils should be considering. I have encouraged the new councils to be ambitious in how they can maximise the use of their estate to cut costs, whilst maintaining the levels of service that ratepayers deserve.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042611%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225242"}},{"id":"225241","reference":"AQW 42610/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-20","answerBy":"2015-03-09","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the Boiler Replacement Scheme; and what consideration has been given to extending the scheme in 2015.","answerText":"The Boiler Replacement Scheme has been a hugely successful scheme and up to 31 January 18,481 households had installed a new more energy efficient boiler. The scheme has also provided work for over two thousand local installers. In my budget for the 2015/16 year I have allocated £2 million to allow the Boiler Replacement Scheme to be extended into the 2015/16 year.","answerHtml":"The Boiler Replacement Scheme has been a hugely successful scheme and up to 31 January 18,481 households had installed a new more energy efficient boiler. The scheme has also provided work for over two thousand local installers. In my budget for the 2015/16 year I have allocated £2 million to allow the Boiler Replacement Scheme to be extended into the 2015/16 year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042610%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225241","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225241"}},{"id":"225020","reference":"AQW 42564/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-19","answerBy":"2015-03-06","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what is the predicted time-scale for the placement of a Consultant Neurologist Multiple Sclerosis Specialist in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) provides a generalist neurology service for patients with a range of neurological conditions including MS, Epilepsy and Parkinson’s diseases. A second NHSCT neurology generalist consultant has been funded by the commissioner and the Trust is actively seeking appointment to this post. The timeframe for appointment is dependent on the availability of a suitable neurologist.","answerHtml":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) provides a generalist neurology service for patients with a range of neurological conditions including MS, Epilepsy and Parkinson’s diseases. A second NHSCT neurology generalist consultant has been funded by the commissioner and the Trust is actively seeking appointment to this post. The timeframe for appointment is dependent on the availability of a suitable neurologist.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042564%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225020","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225020"}},{"id":"225018","reference":"AQW 42563/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-19","answerBy":"2015-03-06","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department is working with arm's-length bodies to address cyber bullying and harassment.","answerText":"The Department of Justice, through the local Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) network, has done much to develop internet safety and tackle the growing prevalence of cyberbullying and some of its very harmful consequences.\n\nThis work is directed at safeguarding young people in the digital world and educating them so they feel safe when accessing e-technologies. PCSPs, in partnership with Health Trusts and PSNI, have developed a range of e-safety resources for children, parents and practitioners on internet and on-line safety, sexting, cyberbullying and reporting abuse.\n\nThe Youth Justice Agency is represented, at committee level, on the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland which has been commissioned to develop a Northern Ireland e-safety strategy on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive. I look forward to the publication of this strategy and will consider how my Department can best contribute to its success.\n\nHarassment and bullying are already criminal offences in Northern Ireland, whether perpetrated directly or in the form of cyber bullying. The maximum penalty for harassment is two years imprisonment, which may be increased to seven years where there is the threat of violence, or 10 years where a person threatens to kill another.\n\nIn addition, recent changes to the law introduced by the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015 have increased the penalties for certain offences under the Malicious Communications Act 1988 to a maximum of two years imprisonment.\n\nWhilst I have no further plans to change our laws at this time, along with my officials, I will be keeping developments in other jurisdictions under review.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice, through the local Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) network, has done much to develop internet safety and tackle the growing prevalence of cyberbullying and some of its very harmful consequences.
This work is directed at safeguarding young people in the digital world and educating them so they feel safe when accessing e-technologies. PCSPs, in partnership with Health Trusts and PSNI, have developed a range of e-safety resources for children, parents and practitioners on internet and on-line safety, sexting, cyberbullying and reporting abuse.
The Youth Justice Agency is represented, at committee level, on the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland which has been commissioned to develop a Northern Ireland e-safety strategy on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive. I look forward to the publication of this strategy and will consider how my Department can best contribute to its success.
Harassment and bullying are already criminal offences in Northern Ireland, whether perpetrated directly or in the form of cyber bullying. The maximum penalty for harassment is two years imprisonment, which may be increased to seven years where there is the threat of violence, or 10 years where a person threatens to kill another.
In addition, recent changes to the law introduced by the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015 have increased the penalties for certain offences under the Malicious Communications Act 1988 to a maximum of two years imprisonment.
Whilst I have no further plans to change our laws at this time, along with my officials, I will be keeping developments in other jurisdictions under review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042563%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225018"}},{"id":"225017","reference":"AQW 42562/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-19","answerBy":"2015-03-06","answered":"2015-03-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what programmes exist within secondary level education to raise awareness of cyber bullying and social media exploitation.","answerText":"The Department takes these issues very seriously and issued an e-Safety Guidance Circular to all schools in December 2013. It stated that ‘eSafety must be built into the delivery of the curriculum’ and recommended that schools use external expertise, where appropriate, to help address these complex issues. It is, however, a matter for each school to determine which programmes and resources best suit their particular needs.\n\nAll secondary schools promote the personal development of pupils as part of the topic ‘Learning for Life and Work’ (LLW). Bullying/cyber-bullying and e-safety are widely covered during LLW. LLW resources for schools have been developed by CCEA, which include ‘safety and managing risk’ in the real world and online. Other materials on specific e-safety issues have been prepared and made available to all teachers through the Classroom 2000 (C2K) network.\n\nAwareness raising programmes, training and resources are provided by a range of organisations such as the PSNI and the NI Anti-Bullying Forum. Voluntary organisations also support schools by providing talks to pupils and parents on these issues.\n\nAs part of “Safer Internet Day 2015”, a toolkit was provided to schools which included information, advice and lesson plans on issues including sexting, using webcams, using Social Networks, inappropriate content and chatting with strangers online.\n\nSpecialist training and support are also available to schools via the Education and Library Boards’ child protection, education welfare and behaviour support services; and from the Child Protection Support Service to Schools (CPSSS).","answerHtml":"The Department takes these issues very seriously and issued an e-Safety Guidance Circular to all schools in December 2013. It stated that ‘eSafety must be built into the delivery of the curriculum’ and recommended that schools use external expertise, where appropriate, to help address these complex issues. It is, however, a matter for each school to determine which programmes and resources best suit their particular needs.
All secondary schools promote the personal development of pupils as part of the topic ‘Learning for Life and Work’ (LLW). Bullying/cyber-bullying and e-safety are widely covered during LLW. LLW resources for schools have been developed by CCEA, which include ‘safety and managing risk’ in the real world and online. Other materials on specific e-safety issues have been prepared and made available to all teachers through the Classroom 2000 (C2K) network.
Awareness raising programmes, training and resources are provided by a range of organisations such as the PSNI and the NI Anti-Bullying Forum. Voluntary organisations also support schools by providing talks to pupils and parents on these issues.
As part of “Safer Internet Day 2015”, a toolkit was provided to schools which included information, advice and lesson plans on issues including sexting, using webcams, using Social Networks, inappropriate content and chatting with strangers online.
Specialist training and support are also available to schools via the Education and Library Boards’ child protection, education welfare and behaviour support services; and from the Child Protection Support Service to Schools (CPSSS).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042562%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225017"}},{"id":"225016","reference":"AQW 42561/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-19","answerBy":"2015-03-06","answered":"2015-03-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on a Government E-strategy for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"E-safety is an issue of relevance to a number of Northern Ireland departments requiring a cross-government response. It has been agreed that the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) should be formally commissioned to develop a Northern Ireland e-safety strategy and produce an e-safety action plan on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive. My Department has committed to a financial contribution to facilitate the development of the e-strategy and action plan.","answerHtml":"E-safety is an issue of relevance to a number of Northern Ireland departments requiring a cross-government response. It has been agreed that the Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland (SBNI) should be formally commissioned to develop a Northern Ireland e-safety strategy and produce an e-safety action plan on behalf of the Northern Ireland Executive. My Department has committed to a financial contribution to facilitate the development of the e-strategy and action plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042561%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225016","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225016"}},{"id":"225015","reference":"AQW 42560/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-19","answerBy":"2015-03-06","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the Employment Service Support Programme; and whether it will be extended beyond March 2015.","answerText":"The Employment Service Support (ESS) was introduced on 2 June 2014, to support the continued delivery of Executive funded initiatives and facilitate the continuity of provision leading to the introduction of a new adult return to work programme, Steps 2 Success (S2S).\n\nESS initially comprised the following six strands of provision:\n\nESS Into Work Skills;\n\nESS Short Accredited Training Courses;\n\nESS YES Work Experience Strand;\n\nESS YES Skills Development Strand;\n\nESS First Start; and\n\nESS Step Ahead 50+.\n\nThe programme was expanded in October 2014 to accommodate the introduction of an additional strand - ESS Self Employment Test Trading.\n\nS2S was successfully launched as my Department’s new adult return to work programme on 20 October 2014.\n\nWhile validated statistical information is not yet available on ESS, management information collected on the various strands indicates that, at 20 February 2015, over 4,600 clients have accessed this provision in order to assist them to return to work. These initial statistics are very encouraging, however, it will not be possible for an accurate assessment of the performance of ESS until statistics become available on the numbers finding employment following completion of their ESS provision.\n\nWhilst it is not possible for ESS to continue in its existing format beyond March 2015, the Employment Service is committed to offering a quality all age service to help jobseekers overcome barriers to work and to move towards, and into, work at the earliest opportunity.","answerHtml":"The Employment Service Support (ESS) was introduced on 2 June 2014, to support the continued delivery of Executive funded initiatives and facilitate the continuity of provision leading to the introduction of a new adult return to work programme, Steps 2 Success (S2S).
ESS initially comprised the following six strands of provision:
ESS Into Work Skills;
ESS Short Accredited Training Courses;
ESS YES Work Experience Strand;
ESS YES Skills Development Strand;
ESS First Start; and
ESS Step Ahead 50+.
The programme was expanded in October 2014 to accommodate the introduction of an additional strand - ESS Self Employment Test Trading.
S2S was successfully launched as my Department’s new adult return to work programme on 20 October 2014.
While validated statistical information is not yet available on ESS, management information collected on the various strands indicates that, at 20 February 2015, over 4,600 clients have accessed this provision in order to assist them to return to work. These initial statistics are very encouraging, however, it will not be possible for an accurate assessment of the performance of ESS until statistics become available on the numbers finding employment following completion of their ESS provision.
Whilst it is not possible for ESS to continue in its existing format beyond March 2015, the Employment Service is committed to offering a quality all age service to help jobseekers overcome barriers to work and to move towards, and into, work at the earliest opportunity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042560%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225015","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225015"}},{"id":"225169","reference":"AQO 7681/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-19","answerBy":"2015-03-02","answered":"2015-03-02","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline their responsibility for informing applicants to the Social Investment Fund as to whether their application has been successful.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr M McGuinness","text":"With your permission, Mr Speaker, I will ask junior Minister McCann to answer this question."},{"speaker":"Ms J McCann","text":"In keeping with the community-based ethos of the social investment fund, zonal steering groups made the final decisions on projects that were selected for their area plans. Individuals or groups that were involved with concepts which did not make it into the area plans were advised at the time. The area plans were submitted in February 2013. When the zonal allocations were subsequently announced, the steering groups were asked to prioritise their area plan projects again in their assigned zonal budgets. This process was completed by November 2013. The steering groups should have informed those involved of the decisions. If anyone is still in doubt, they should contact their zone's steering group directly. Contact details for these steering groups can be found on the NI Direct website."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I think that this whole process is actually quite empty. The fact that you are referring us back to a steering group that obviously knows as much as you do about this is quite disappointing. Was any money actually in place when this process was first announced, and is there any money in place to fulfil the many applications?"},{"speaker":"Ms J McCann","text":"The Member would know that in her area, quite a bit of progress has been made. Her area covers three zones; Derry, the western zone and the northern zone. Around £50 million has already been committed in letters of offer and projects that have already started. While the money is not in the baseline of the OFMDFM budget because it is, in fact, an Executive budget, there is a clear indication that when the money needs to be drawn down, it will be drawn down. It is really the responsibility of local steering groups to, if you like, inform the areas and projects that were unsuccessful. Those local steering groups were set up for the purpose, first of all, of deciding which particular projects they wanted to bring forward. They should also encompass, if you like, members of the community, the voluntary sector and other statutory organisations so that those individuals form a clear, wide membership of those steering groups."},{"speaker":"Mr McKay","text":"Go raibh maith agat, a Cheann Comhairle. Can the Minister outline the process for ensuring that letters of offer to social investment fund projects will be taken forward in a timely and efficient manner?"},{"speaker":"Ms J McCann","text":"Obviously, as I said, it is good news that the majority of projects are now progressing, but we are aware that a small number of projects still have not reached full approval stage. Officials are refocusing efforts to secure the business case approval on all remaining projects in the allocations for each zone. Steering groups are aware of this. While we have to be sure that all projects are fit for purpose and demonstrate value for money, we remain committed to ensuring that all projects in affordability levels are approved, letters of offer issued and projects commenced as soon as possible in order to get the benefits from the social investment programme. Again, I just want to say that we are working with people and the local steering groups to try to ensure that these projects are brought forward as quickly as possible."},{"speaker":"Mrs D Kelly","text":"I do not think that I have ever heard the words \"timely and efficient\" being used to describe the social investment fund, since £30 million has been underspent as it is. The junior Minister referred only to money that has been promised as opposed to having actually been spent. Can the junior Minister outline what evaluation and monitoring methods are deployed with regard to the social investment fund?"},{"speaker":"Ms J McCann","text":"First of all, I want to say to the Member that she is actually wrong because two projects have actually started. They are the Coleraine rural and urban network in the northern zone and the Bryson Street Surgery in east Belfast. There are a number of projects. I can give the Member a list of many that will be taking work forward soon. I say again that while this money has not been in OFMDFM's baseline, it has been allocated. Almost £50 million has been offered through letters of offer and everything else. So, I think that it is disingenuous of the Member to say —"},{"speaker":"Mrs D Kelly","text":"I think that it is disingenuous of you —"},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"Order."},{"speaker":"Ms J McCann","text":"If you want the whole plan of it and to know how it has been rolled out, I will certainly give that to the Member in written form."},{"speaker":"Mr Speaker","text":"It is very far from in order to interrupt a Minister in the middle of an answer. I will not tolerate that."},{"speaker":"Mrs Overend","text":"Is the junior Minister aware that applicants in my area did not even know that there was such a thing as a steering group or know how to contact it? What key things have you learned about the roll-out of the social investment fund?"},{"speaker":"Ms J McCann","text":"Different areas must have different ways of working the steering groups. Some of the steering groups that I know in west Belfast and, indeed, in the south-eastern zone, are made up of members of the local community and members of voluntary and statutory organisations. Once they were clear on what projects they wanted brought forward, they brought in members from the statutory groups or the business community to whichever projects they wanted to deliver. They work closely together, not only by way of the steering group working together, but through work with other policies and programmes like neighbourhood renewal, for instance, or with people in the council who are involved in community planning. Local people are designing the projects for their areas. The make-up of steering groups should, obviously, be from local areas."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207681%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=225169","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-03-02&docID=226152#AQO%207681/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=225169"}},{"id":"224773","reference":"AQW 42489/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-18","answerBy":"2015-03-05","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence.","answerText":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.\n\nOFMDFM has been advised that the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) has met on five occasions since its inception in May 2008.\n\nBetween meetings IMG members have received written briefings and been updated both on the development of the new draft Strategy on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and on the outcome of the consultation on the Strategy.\n\nIt is anticipated that an IMG meeting will be arranged when the timetable for the publication of the new Strategy is fully confirmed.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.
OFMDFM has been advised that the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) has met on five occasions since its inception in May 2008.
Between meetings IMG members have received written briefings and been updated both on the development of the new draft Strategy on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and on the outcome of the consultation on the Strategy.
It is anticipated that an IMG meeting will be arranged when the timetable for the publication of the new Strategy is fully confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042489%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224773"}},{"id":"224772","reference":"AQW 42488/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-18","answerBy":"2015-03-05","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Regional Strategy Action Plan as associated with the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence, including the resources allocated to implement such a strategy.","answerText":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.\n\nOFMDFM has been advised that work to progress the actions detailed in the joint Domestic and Sexual Violence Action Plan, which was endorsed by the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) in April 2012, is still ongoing. It is monitored by the Regional Strategy Group for Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and its associated Sub-Groups.\n\nIn late 2013, IMG members agreed to extend the Action Plan until the publication of the new Strategy.\n\nGiven the wide ranging nature of the work and service provision there would be a disproportionate cost in providing the total resource allocation.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.
OFMDFM has been advised that work to progress the actions detailed in the joint Domestic and Sexual Violence Action Plan, which was endorsed by the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) in April 2012, is still ongoing. It is monitored by the Regional Strategy Group for Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and its associated Sub-Groups.
In late 2013, IMG members agreed to extend the Action Plan until the publication of the new Strategy.
Given the wide ranging nature of the work and service provision there would be a disproportionate cost in providing the total resource allocation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042488%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224772"}},{"id":"224770","reference":"AQW 42486/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-18","answerBy":"2015-03-05","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the measures which have been taken to produce a targeted health promotion approach to raising awareness of the health and social care needs arising from sexual violence and abuse, since 2011.","answerText":"Since 2011, my Department has brought forward a range of measures which provide support to victims of sexual violence and abuse and raise awareness of their health and social care needs. These measures include: the provision of the government 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline; the development and establishment of The Rowan, Sexual Assault Referral Centre; and the provision of a regional sexual abuse counselling service through Nexus NI. My Department also established Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland and partners with the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership to protect children at risk.\n\nMy Department’s Sexual Health Promotion Strategy aims to improve, protect and promote the sexual health and well-being of the population of Northern Ireland, and provide information and training on the Sexual offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008 to those in the HSC and voluntary and community sectors working in the field of sexual health.","answerHtml":"Since 2011, my Department has brought forward a range of measures which provide support to victims of sexual violence and abuse and raise awareness of their health and social care needs. These measures include: the provision of the government 24 Hour Domestic and Sexual Violence Helpline; the development and establishment of The Rowan, Sexual Assault Referral Centre; and the provision of a regional sexual abuse counselling service through Nexus NI. My Department also established Safeguarding Board for Northern Ireland and partners with the Children and Young People’s Strategic Partnership to protect children at risk.
My Department’s Sexual Health Promotion Strategy aims to improve, protect and promote the sexual health and well-being of the population of Northern Ireland, and provide information and training on the Sexual offences (Northern Ireland) Order 2008 to those in the HSC and voluntary and community sectors working in the field of sexual health.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042486%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224770","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224770"}},{"id":"224769","reference":"AQW 42485/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-18","answerBy":"2015-03-05","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the date of the most recent meeting of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence; and the number of times it has met since 2011.","answerText":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.\n\nOFMDFM has been advised that the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) was last scheduled to meet in October 2014; however, the meeting was postponed.\n\nSince 2011, IMG has met on two occasions, 24 May 2012 and 14 November 2012.\n\nBetween meetings members have received written briefings and been updated both on the development of the new draft Strategy on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and on the outcome of the consultation on the Strategy.\n\nIt is anticipated that an IMG meeting will be arranged when the timetable for the publication of the new Strategy is fully confirmed.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, and the Department of Justice jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.
OFMDFM has been advised that the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence (IMG) was last scheduled to meet in October 2014; however, the meeting was postponed.
Since 2011, IMG has met on two occasions, 24 May 2012 and 14 November 2012.
Between meetings members have received written briefings and been updated both on the development of the new draft Strategy on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse and on the outcome of the consultation on the Strategy.
It is anticipated that an IMG meeting will be arranged when the timetable for the publication of the new Strategy is fully confirmed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042485%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224769"}},{"id":"224768","reference":"AQW 42484/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-18","answerBy":"2015-03-05","answered":"2015-03-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the funding which has been provided for research into sexual violence and abuse, including the strategies which address these directly, since 2011.","answerText":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS), and the Department of Justice (DoJ) jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.\n\nOFMDFM has been advised that since 2011, DHSSPS has not provided any funding for research into sexual violence and abuse, either through or independent of the ‘Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse’ Strategy.\n\nDoJ has advised that, as part of its five-year victim and witness strategy, it has committed to undertake research with victims of serious and sensitive crimes, including sexual violence and abuse, subject to the necessary resources being available. The aim of this research will be to assess victims’ experience of the criminal justice system, with a view to addressing issues raised.\n\nJunior Ministers remain committed to tackling all forms of domestic and sexual violence and are members of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence.\n\nThe Executive’s Gender Equality Strategy 2006-2016 sets out an overarching framework for departments, their agencies and other relevant statutory authorities to promote gender equality. The Strategy contains a key objective to eliminate gender based violence in society.","answerHtml":"The Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS), and the Department of Justice (DoJ) jointly lead on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse.
OFMDFM has been advised that since 2011, DHSSPS has not provided any funding for research into sexual violence and abuse, either through or independent of the ‘Tackling Sexual Violence and Abuse’ Strategy.
DoJ has advised that, as part of its five-year victim and witness strategy, it has committed to undertake research with victims of serious and sensitive crimes, including sexual violence and abuse, subject to the necessary resources being available. The aim of this research will be to assess victims’ experience of the criminal justice system, with a view to addressing issues raised.
Junior Ministers remain committed to tackling all forms of domestic and sexual violence and are members of the Inter-Ministerial Group on Domestic and Sexual Violence.
The Executive’s Gender Equality Strategy 2006-2016 sets out an overarching framework for departments, their agencies and other relevant statutory authorities to promote gender equality. The Strategy contains a key objective to eliminate gender based violence in society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042484%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224768"}},{"id":"224542","reference":"AQW 42401/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-17","answerBy":"2015-03-04","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on the Rural Borewells Scheme; and whether she has plans to open the scheme for applications in 2015.","answerText":"Sixty-three borewells have been drilled for eligible applications received in 2012 and 2013. Site-works for the twenty-six eligible applications received in 2014 have also commenced.\n\nA decision on whether to open again in 2015 must take account of departmental priorities within both DARD and DRD and also the level of demand for the Rural Borewells Scheme. A review of the Scheme is currently being undertaken by DARD and DRD officials. This review will influence the decision on future delivery of this Scheme; a decision which I anticipate will be made within the coming weeks.","answerHtml":"Sixty-three borewells have been drilled for eligible applications received in 2012 and 2013. Site-works for the twenty-six eligible applications received in 2014 have also commenced.
A decision on whether to open again in 2015 must take account of departmental priorities within both DARD and DRD and also the level of demand for the Rural Borewells Scheme. A review of the Scheme is currently being undertaken by DARD and DRD officials. This review will influence the decision on future delivery of this Scheme; a decision which I anticipate will be made within the coming weeks.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042401%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224542","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224542"}},{"id":"224531","reference":"AQW 42397/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-17","answerBy":"2015-03-04","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the Rural Youth Entrepreneurship Programme; and whether it is on course to reach its Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Isolation framework objective by March 2015.","answerText":"The Rural Youth Entrepreneurship Programme is an innovative initiative that aims to help reduce youth migration and increase the sustainability of rural communities by encouraging rural young people to consider self-employment and entrepreneurship as a viable career path. At present 167 participants are engaged in the RYE Programme and work is well underway to achieve the target of 450 participants leading to 100 new Business Action Plans and onward referrals by 31 March 2016.","answerHtml":"The Rural Youth Entrepreneurship Programme is an innovative initiative that aims to help reduce youth migration and increase the sustainability of rural communities by encouraging rural young people to consider self-employment and entrepreneurship as a viable career path. At present 167 participants are engaged in the RYE Programme and work is well underway to achieve the target of 450 participants leading to 100 new Business Action Plans and onward referrals by 31 March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042397%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224531","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224531"}},{"id":"224530","reference":"AQW 42396/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-17","answerBy":"2015-03-04","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 41364/11-15, for an update on the pilot Full Service Programmes and whether the Full Service approach will be pursued further by his Department in 2015.","answerText":"The Department has continued to fund the Full Service Extended Schools programme in place at the Belfast Boys Model and Belfast Model School for Girls in North Belfast and the Full Service Community Network in West Belfast. Both programmes received £385k in the 2014/15 financial year.\n\nI am currently finalising my 2015-16 spending plans and the continuation of any Full Service funding beyond 31 March 2015 will be considered in the context of my overall spending plans for education which I hope to announce in the near future.","answerHtml":"The Department has continued to fund the Full Service Extended Schools programme in place at the Belfast Boys Model and Belfast Model School for Girls in North Belfast and the Full Service Community Network in West Belfast. Both programmes received £385k in the 2014/15 financial year.
I am currently finalising my 2015-16 spending plans and the continuation of any Full Service funding beyond 31 March 2015 will be considered in the context of my overall spending plans for education which I hope to announce in the near future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042396%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224530","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224530"}},{"id":"224522","reference":"AQW 42395/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-17","answerBy":"2015-03-04","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, pursuant to AQW 41001/11-15, how many of the 2,748 assisted households were in East Londonderry.","answerText":"243 of the 2,748 rural households that benefitted from DARD supported fuel poverty interventions up to the end of December 2014 were in the East Londonderry constituency.","answerHtml":"243 of the 2,748 rural households that benefitted from DARD supported fuel poverty interventions up to the end of December 2014 were in the East Londonderry constituency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042395%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224522"}},{"id":"224517","reference":"AQW 42390/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-17","answerBy":"2015-03-04","answered":"2015-03-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of applications from each constituency received by the Rural Borewells Scheme in (i) 2013; and (ii) 2014; and the number which were successful.","answerText":"In 2013, thirty eight applications were submitted into the Rural Borewells Scheme. A further fifty five applications were submitted in 2014. Twenty one applications passed the initial eligibility criteria set for the 2013 Scheme, with nineteen of these achieving a wholesome water supply. Twenty six applications passed the initial eligibility criteria for 2014 and site works have now commenced. A detailed breakdown of applications from each constituency is provided in the table below.\n\nConstituency\tNumber of applications received in 2013\tNumber of eligible applications received in 2013\tNumber of applications received in 2014\tNumber of eligible applications received in 2014\nEast Antrim\t3\t2\t5\t1\nEast Derry\t2\t2\t5\t3\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t1\t1\t4\t1\nLagan Valley\t2\t1\t1\t1\nMid Ulster\t3\t1\t6\t4\nNewry & Armagh\t1\t1\t7\t3\nNorth Antrim\t4\t2\t10\t5\nSouth Antrim\t9\t7\t5\t3\nSouth Down\t2\t2\t2\t1\nWest Tyrone\t10\t3\t10\t4\nWALES\t1\t0\t-\t-\nTOTAL\t38\t22\t55\t26","answerHtml":"In 2013, thirty eight applications were submitted into the Rural Borewells Scheme. A further fifty five applications were submitted in 2014. Twenty one applications passed the initial eligibility criteria set for the 2013 Scheme, with nineteen of these achieving a wholesome water supply. Twenty six applications passed the initial eligibility criteria for 2014 and site works have now commenced. A detailed breakdown of applications from each constituency is provided in the table below.
| Constituency | Number of applications received in 2013 | Number of eligible applications received in 2013 | Number of applications received in 2014 | Number of eligible applications received in 2014 |
| East Antrim | 3 | 2 | 5 | 1 |
| East Derry | 2 | 2 | 5 | 3 |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 1 | 1 | 4 | 1 |
| Lagan Valley | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Mid Ulster | 3 | 1 | 6 | 4 |
| Newry & Armagh | 1 | 1 | 7 | 3 |
| North Antrim | 4 | 2 | 10 | 5 |
| South Antrim | 9 | 7 | 5 | 3 |
| South Down | 2 | 2 | 2 | 1 |
| West Tyrone | 10 | 3 | 10 | 4 |
| WALES | 1 | 0 | - | - |
| TOTAL | 38 | 22 | 55 | 26 |
Ulster University regularly reviews its course provision with the latest review having been carried out in December 2014 and noted by the university committee in February 2015. The university makes decisions by looking at a number of factors including the number of applications, employability statistics and national student satisfaction scores.
Ulster University has provided the following information regarding courses which have been withdrawn from its prospectus since the 2012/13 academic year. The University has stated that course closures do not necessarily equate to subject closures, as different courses in the same subject area will still be available to prospective students.
Full Time
| Programme Title | Campus | Committee Notation |
| BSc Hons Banking and Finance | CE | Feb 2013 |
| BSc Hons Clinical Physiology Respiratory | JN | |
| BSc Hons Clinical Physiology Cardiology | JN | |
| BSc Hons Creative Enterprise | JN | April 2013 |
| BSc Hons Communication | JN | |
| BSc Hons Communication with Advertising | JN | |
| BSc Hons Communication with Counselling | JN | |
| BSc Hons Communication with Public Relations | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Advertising | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Communication | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Counselling | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Public Relations | JN | |
| BSc Hons Public Relations | JN | |
| BA Hons Irish Studies | CE | June 2013 |
| BA Hons Irish Language and Literature | CE | |
| UG Hons Subject: Irish (Major, Main, Minor) | CE | |
| UG Hons Subject: Irish (Main) | ME | |
| BSc Hons International Hotel and Tourism Management | BT | |
| BSc Hons Environmental Health (non DIS/DPP) | JN | Sep 2013 |
| BSc Hons Economics with Politics | JN | |
| BSc Hons Economics with Accountancy Studies | JN | |
| BSc Hons Economics with Marketing | JN | |
| BSc Hons Specialist Nursing Practice | CE | Feb 2014 |
| BSc Hons Transportation with Specialisms | JN | April 2014 |
| BSc (Hons) Transport and Supply Chain Management | JN | |
| LLB Law with Drama | ME | June 2014 |
| BA Hons Dance with Music | ME | Oct 2014 |
| BA Hons Drama with Computing | ME | |
| BA Hons English with Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies and French | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies and German | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies and Spanish | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with French | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with German | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with Spanish | CE | |
| BA Hons French with English | CE | |
| BA Hons French with Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons French with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons German with Business | CE | |
| BA Hons German with Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons German with Marketing | CE | |
| BA Hons German with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons History with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with French | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with German | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with Spanish | CE | |
| BA Hons Spanish with English | CE | |
| BA Hons Spanish with Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons Spanish with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons English with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with International Development | CE | |
| BA Hons German with English | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with International Development | CE | |
| BSc Hons Business | CE |
| BSc Hons Advertising with Accounting | ME | Nov 2014 |
| BSc Hons Advertising with Irish | ME | |
| BSc Hons Sports Technology | JN | |
| BA Hons English and Film Studies | CE | Feb 2015 |
| BA Hons Film Studies and Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies and History | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies and Journalism | CE | |
| BA Hons Film and Media Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons History with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons English with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons French with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons German with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Spanish with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Journalism with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with English | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with History | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with Media Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Film Studies with English as a Second Language | CE | |
| BA Hons Journalism with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Arts with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Irish History and Society | CE | |
| BA Hons Irish History with Education | CE | |
| BA Hons Irish History with English | CE | |
| BA Hons Irish History with Geography | CE | |
| BA Hons Journalism with Irish History | CE | |
| BA Hons Irish History and Politics | ME | |
| BA Hons Music with Dance | ME | |
| BA Hons Dance with Drama | ME | |
| BA Hons Dance | ME | |
| BA Hons Drama with Dance | ME | |
| BSc Hons Transportation | JN | |
| BSc Hons Housing Management | JN | |
| BSc Hons Building Engineering and Materials | JN | |
| MSci Transport Planning | JN | |
| BSc Hons Computing with Geography | CE | |
| BSc Hons Computing with Psychology | CE | |
| BSc Hons Computing with Accounting | CE | |
| BSc Hons Computational Finance | JN | |
| BSc Hons Computer Gaming, Modelling and Animation | ME | |
| BSc Hons Geography with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BSc Hons Environmental Science with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BSc Hons Business Studies with Irish History | ME |
Part Time
| Programme Title | Campus | Committee Notation |
| BSc Computing and Information Systems | JN | Nov 2012 |
| BSc Hons Communication | JN | April 2013 |
| BSc Hons Communication with Advertising | JN | |
| BSc Hons Communication with Counselling | JN | |
| BSc Hons Communication with Linguistics | JN | |
| BSc Hons Communication with Public Relations | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Advertising | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Communication | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Counselling | JN | |
| BSc Hons Language and Linguistics with Public Relations | JN | |
| BSc Hons Public Relations | JN | |
| BA Hons Irish Studies | CE | June 2013 |
| UG Hons Subject: Irish (Major, Main, Minor) | CE | |
| UG Hons Subject: Irish (Main) | ME | |
| BSc Hons International Hotel and Tourism Management | BT | |
| BSc Hons Applied Bioscience (Healthcare Sciences) | DL | Sep 2013 |
| UG Hons Subject: Procurement (Minor) | JN | |
| BA Hons English Literature | BT | Nov 2013 |
| BSc Hons Politics with Social Policy | JN | |
| BSc Hons Politics with Sociology | JN | |
| BSc Hons Politics with Procurement | JN | |
| BSc Hons Specialist Nursing Practice | CE | Feb 2014 |
| LLB Law with Drama | ME | June 2014 |
| BSc Hons Accounting | JN | Oct 2014 |
| BA Hons German with Business | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with Film Studies | CE | Feb 2015 |
| BA Hons English and Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Spanish with Film Studies | CE | |
| BA Hons Media Studies with Photo Imaging | CE | |
| BA Hons Irish History and Politics | ME | |
| BA Hons Irish History with Psychology | ME | |
| BA Hons American Studies with Irish History | ME | |
| BA Hons Irish History and Society | ME | |
| BA Hons Irish History and Society | CE | |
| BA Hons Dance | ME |
JN = Jordanstown campus
CE = Coleraine campus
ME = Magee campus
BT = Belfast campus
DL = Donegal – Letterkenny Institute
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042344%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224387","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224387"}},{"id":"224386","reference":"AQW 42343/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-16","answerBy":"2015-03-03","answered":"2015-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether he will promote other courses of potential economic benefit to fill spaces left by the withdrawal of full-time and part-time undergraduate courses from the Ulster University prospectus.","answerText":"While my Department sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, each university is responsible for its own course provision and curriculum.\n\nUlster University has advised that the decision to withdraw a number of full-time and part-time courses in 2015/16 is part of the normal annual cycle. In making the decision the University has taken account of a number of factors including the needs of the economy, student demand and my Department’s priorities, in addition to potential budget constraints.\n\nI have also received assurance from the University that it has followed a request from my Department to protect STEM numbers, so where a STEM related course may close, the numbers will increase in other relevant STEM courses.\n\nThe University has advised that the course closures do not equate to subject closures and that a decision on final student numbers has not yet been made. This decision will be made when the university has had the opportunity to consider the final budget allocation.","answerHtml":"While my Department sets the strategic direction for the higher education sector, each university is responsible for its own course provision and curriculum.
Ulster University has advised that the decision to withdraw a number of full-time and part-time courses in 2015/16 is part of the normal annual cycle. In making the decision the University has taken account of a number of factors including the needs of the economy, student demand and my Department’s priorities, in addition to potential budget constraints.
I have also received assurance from the University that it has followed a request from my Department to protect STEM numbers, so where a STEM related course may close, the numbers will increase in other relevant STEM courses.
The University has advised that the course closures do not equate to subject closures and that a decision on final student numbers has not yet been made. This decision will be made when the university has had the opportunity to consider the final budget allocation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042343%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224386","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224386"}},{"id":"224377","reference":"AQW 42334/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-16","answerBy":"2015-03-03","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 41066/11-15, what recent engagement he has had with members of the Joint Government/Voluntary and Community Sector Forum; and to detail the number of times the Joint Forum has met in the last twelve months.","answerText":"In October 2014 I met with Anne O’Reilly and Marie Cavanagh, who are the Voluntary and Community Sector Co-Chairs on the Joint Forum.\n\nI also attended the most recent Joint Forum on 18 February 2015 and on both these occasions emphasised the importance of closer working relationships and partnership working between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector.\n\nThe Joint Forum has met on three occasions in the last twelve months.","answerHtml":"In October 2014 I met with Anne O’Reilly and Marie Cavanagh, who are the Voluntary and Community Sector Co-Chairs on the Joint Forum.
I also attended the most recent Joint Forum on 18 February 2015 and on both these occasions emphasised the importance of closer working relationships and partnership working between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector.
The Joint Forum has met on three occasions in the last twelve months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042334%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224377","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224377"}},{"id":"224376","reference":"AQW 42333/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-16","answerBy":"2015-03-03","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the role of the Northern Ireland Executive within the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission.","answerText":"There is currently no role for a representative of the Northern Ireland Executive within the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission.","answerHtml":"There is currently no role for a representative of the Northern Ireland Executive within the Social Mobility and Child Poverty Commission.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042333%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224376","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224376"}},{"id":"224375","reference":"AQW 42332/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-16","answerBy":"2015-03-03","answered":"2015-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 40785/11-15, whether the eligibility criteria for receiving measures to increase energy efficiency under the Warm Homes Scheme has changed since 2012/13.","answerText":"The eligibility criteria for the Warm Homes Scheme have not changed since 2012/2013.","answerHtml":"The eligibility criteria for the Warm Homes Scheme have not changed since 2012/2013.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042332%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224375","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224375"}},{"id":"224310","reference":"AQW 42313/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-13","answerBy":"2015-03-02","answered":"2015-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister who is the primary point of contact for the Social Investment Fund Northern Steering Group.","answerText":"William Adamson, the Chair of the Social Investment Fund Northern Zone Steering Group is the primary contact. Details of other members of the Steering Group can be found on the OFMDFM website at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/social-investment-fund/sif-steering-groups.htm#sif-sg-northern.","answerHtml":"William Adamson, the Chair of the Social Investment Fund Northern Zone Steering Group is the primary contact. Details of other members of the Steering Group can be found on the OFMDFM website at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/social-investment-fund/sif-steering-groups.htm#sif-sg-northern.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042313%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224310"}},{"id":"224309","reference":"AQW 42312/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-13","answerBy":"2015-03-02","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Minority Ethnic Development Fund.","answerText":"We have committed £1.1 million to the 2015/16 Minority Ethnic Development Fund and expect to be making a formal call for applications soon.","answerHtml":"We have committed £1.1 million to the 2015/16 Minority Ethnic Development Fund and expect to be making a formal call for applications soon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042312%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224309"}},{"id":"224307","reference":"AQW 42311/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-13","answerBy":"2015-03-02","answered":"2015-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what are the identified themes further to the completion of the Social Investment Fund application process.","answerText":"The high level strategic concept, objectives and overall methodology of the Social Investment Fund can be found on the OFMDFM website at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/social-investment-fund. Details of the Social Investment Fund projects can also be found there.","answerHtml":"The high level strategic concept, objectives and overall methodology of the Social Investment Fund can be found on the OFMDFM website at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/social-investment-fund. Details of the Social Investment Fund projects can also be found there.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042311%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224307"}},{"id":"224113","reference":"AQW 42249/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-12","answerBy":"2015-02-27","answered":"2015-03-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the consultancies used to process Social Investment Fund applications; and for a breakdown of the costs of using these consultancies.","answerText":"Initially each of the 9 Social Investment Fund Steering Groups chose a range of projects to address social deprivation and dereliction within their Zone. The Steering Groups then prioritised their projects once the Zone funding allocations were known. Consultancy services were not used to choose or prioritise the projects.","answerHtml":"Initially each of the 9 Social Investment Fund Steering Groups chose a range of projects to address social deprivation and dereliction within their Zone. The Steering Groups then prioritised their projects once the Zone funding allocations were known. Consultancy services were not used to choose or prioritise the projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042249%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224113"}},{"id":"224112","reference":"AQW 42248/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-12","answerBy":"2015-02-27","answered":"2015-04-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether there is money ring-fenced to fulfil successful applications of the Social Investment Fund; and whether money was ring-fenced to fulfil successful applications when the Social Investment Fund was agreed by the NI Executive in May 2012.","answerText":"The Social Investment Fund is an Executive Fund with a ring fenced budget of £80million pounds. This position has not changed since the agreement of the fund by the Executive in May 2012.","answerHtml":"The Social Investment Fund is an Executive Fund with a ring fenced budget of £80million pounds. This position has not changed since the agreement of the fund by the Executive in May 2012.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042248%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224112"}},{"id":"224111","reference":"AQW 42247/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-12","answerBy":"2015-02-27","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, pursuant to AQW 40905/11-15, to detail the Departmental infrastructural projects which have been put out to tender; and for an update on each project.","answerText":"Details of all Capital projects including infrastructure projects that my Department has put out to tender can be found on the Investment Strategy Northern Ireland website at www.isni.gov.uk.","answerHtml":"Details of all Capital projects including infrastructure projects that my Department has put out to tender can be found on the Investment Strategy Northern Ireland website at www.isni.gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042247%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224111"}},{"id":"224110","reference":"AQW 42246/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-12","answerBy":"2015-02-27","answered":"2015-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many successful applicants of the Social Investment Fund in the Northern Zone received a letter of offer; and further to the receipt of a letter of offer, how many have received funding.","answerText":"Four projects in the Social Investment Northern Zone have received Letters of Offer. These are Coleraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN), Fuel Poverty, Community Capacity Hubs and Employment through Education. Of these only CRUN has begun, the remainder are working on the pre-conditions which must be met before they can be given permission to start.","answerHtml":"Four projects in the Social Investment Northern Zone have received Letters of Offer. These are Coleraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN), Fuel Poverty, Community Capacity Hubs and Employment through Education. Of these only CRUN has begun, the remainder are working on the pre-conditions which must be met before they can be given permission to start.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042246%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224110"}},{"id":"224109","reference":"AQW 42245/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-12","answerBy":"2015-02-27","answered":"2015-02-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether their Department will use Intermediary Funding Bodies to implement the Social Investment Fund; and to detail who these bodies are and their role.","answerText":"Intermediary Funding Bodies will not be used to implement the Social Investment Fund (SIF).\n\nSIF funding has been awarded to 33 projects managed by either a lead partner or project promoter, who will, depending on the type of project, tender for either design teams or delivery agents. These teams/agents will be paid directly by the project and not the Department.","answerHtml":"Intermediary Funding Bodies will not be used to implement the Social Investment Fund (SIF).
SIF funding has been awarded to 33 projects managed by either a lead partner or project promoter, who will, depending on the type of project, tender for either design teams or delivery agents. These teams/agents will be paid directly by the project and not the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042245%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=224109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=224109"}},{"id":"223903","reference":"AQW 42204/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-11","answerBy":"2015-02-26","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for an update on the adoption of a Unique Learner Number as part of the development of a system to track student progress, particularly those at risk of not being in education, employment or training.","answerText":"My Department is working on the introduction of a Unique Learner Number (ULN) for all learners in the north of Ireland at Year 11 and above. In taking forward this work, the Department established a pilot exercise involving up to 25 post-primary schools during 2013/14. This pilot was subsequently extended to 2014/15 to allow for IT developments and to optimise participation from schools.\n\nProgress to date has been positive and the outcomes of the pilot are being evaluated to help inform decisions on the full roll out of the ULN across all schools here.","answerHtml":"My Department is working on the introduction of a Unique Learner Number (ULN) for all learners in the north of Ireland at Year 11 and above. In taking forward this work, the Department established a pilot exercise involving up to 25 post-primary schools during 2013/14. This pilot was subsequently extended to 2014/15 to allow for IT developments and to optimise participation from schools.
Progress to date has been positive and the outcomes of the pilot are being evaluated to help inform decisions on the full roll out of the ULN across all schools here.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042204%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223903"}},{"id":"223902","reference":"AQW 42203/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-11","answerBy":"2015-02-26","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of public procurement as a means of stimulating innovation.","answerText":"Public procurement has a track record of securing innovative approaches including strategic partnerships, design and build, and exploiting the potential of technology as part of public sector reform.\n\nA recent Innovation Lab run by the Department explored how in the future we can further stimulate innovative products and services through public procurement. It highlighted the role of those who are commissioning procurements in framing outcome-based specifications that provide options for innovative approaches; the importance of market engagement; and the need for a proportionate approach to risk management.\n\nPublic Contracts Regulations 2015, coming into effect on 26 February, provide for new Innovation Partnership models. Moreover, I am proposing that the Northern Ireland Public Governance Review, led by OECD, will take public procurement as one of its case studies, focussing, amongst other points, on the objectives that can be pursued through procurement. I also await with interest the publication of a NICVA report on innovation and procurement in March. In the meantime, CPD is drawing up plans to offer further support to commissioners in exploiting commercial knowledge and using procurement as a tool for change.","answerHtml":"Public procurement has a track record of securing innovative approaches including strategic partnerships, design and build, and exploiting the potential of technology as part of public sector reform.
A recent Innovation Lab run by the Department explored how in the future we can further stimulate innovative products and services through public procurement. It highlighted the role of those who are commissioning procurements in framing outcome-based specifications that provide options for innovative approaches; the importance of market engagement; and the need for a proportionate approach to risk management.
Public Contracts Regulations 2015, coming into effect on 26 February, provide for new Innovation Partnership models. Moreover, I am proposing that the Northern Ireland Public Governance Review, led by OECD, will take public procurement as one of its case studies, focussing, amongst other points, on the objectives that can be pursued through procurement. I also await with interest the publication of a NICVA report on innovation and procurement in March. In the meantime, CPD is drawing up plans to offer further support to commissioners in exploiting commercial knowledge and using procurement as a tool for change.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042203%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223902","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223902"}},{"id":"223901","reference":"AQW 42202/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-11","answerBy":"2015-02-26","answered":"2015-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel what advice and support is available to third sector organisations who are seeking to bid for public service contracts.","answerText":"There are a number of initiatives to provide advice and support to organisations in Northern Ireland and there is a particular focus on assisting SEEs when bidding for public service contracts.\n\nCPD has published procurement guidance note 01/11 Public Procurement: A Guide for Social Economy Enterprises. This note aims to increase their knowledge and understanding of public sector procurement and in so doing, help them to develop their capability to compete successfully for public sector contracts. It also highlights the benefits of forming a consortium or sub-contracting within the supply chain.\n\nCPD also attends regular ‘Meet the Buyer’ events enabling organisations to meet with public sector buyers, gaining insight into the public procurement process.","answerHtml":"There are a number of initiatives to provide advice and support to organisations in Northern Ireland and there is a particular focus on assisting SEEs when bidding for public service contracts.
CPD has published procurement guidance note 01/11 Public Procurement: A Guide for Social Economy Enterprises. This note aims to increase their knowledge and understanding of public sector procurement and in so doing, help them to develop their capability to compete successfully for public sector contracts. It also highlights the benefits of forming a consortium or sub-contracting within the supply chain.
CPD also attends regular ‘Meet the Buyer’ events enabling organisations to meet with public sector buyers, gaining insight into the public procurement process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042202%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223901"}},{"id":"223899","reference":"AQW 42200/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-11","answerBy":"2015-02-26","answered":"2015-03-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the progress being made on the United Youth programme of Together: Building a United Community, to ensure that it extends to Young People in rural areas.","answerText":"One of the seven core headline actions committed to within Together: Building a United Community is the development of the United Youth Programme. This Programme is designed to offer structured employment, work experience, volunteer and leisure opportunities and is open to young people from both rural and urban areas who are not in education, employment or training.\n\nTo date there has been comprehensive and detailed engagement with youth related organisations and young people themselves to ensure the programme has maximum buy-in and consensus.\n\nThe co-design process, begun by OFMDFM, is being continued by the Department for Employment and Learning and is being supported by a Design Team.\n\nThe first pilot to help inform the design for the United Youth Programme which was rolled out by Springboard has concluded and has now been evaluated. A call for concept proposals, to deliver pilot projects, was issued in early September. Following a development phase in the Autumn, over 150 pilot applications from a wide range of sectors were submitted in December. An assessment of these proposals was completed with assistance from the programme’s Design Team.\n\nAs a result, 50 successful organisations (57 proposals) have been selected to proceed to a further development stage, following which around 10 pilot schemes will be taken forward to move into delivery mode later in 2015, prior to the anticipated full roll-out of the programme in 2016.\n\nA list of those organisations successful in proceeding to the next stage can be found at http://www.delni.gov.uk/index/successthroughskills/united-youth.htm","answerHtml":"One of the seven core headline actions committed to within Together: Building a United Community is the development of the United Youth Programme. This Programme is designed to offer structured employment, work experience, volunteer and leisure opportunities and is open to young people from both rural and urban areas who are not in education, employment or training.
To date there has been comprehensive and detailed engagement with youth related organisations and young people themselves to ensure the programme has maximum buy-in and consensus.
The co-design process, begun by OFMDFM, is being continued by the Department for Employment and Learning and is being supported by a Design Team.
The first pilot to help inform the design for the United Youth Programme which was rolled out by Springboard has concluded and has now been evaluated. A call for concept proposals, to deliver pilot projects, was issued in early September. Following a development phase in the Autumn, over 150 pilot applications from a wide range of sectors were submitted in December. An assessment of these proposals was completed with assistance from the programme’s Design Team.
As a result, 50 successful organisations (57 proposals) have been selected to proceed to a further development stage, following which around 10 pilot schemes will be taken forward to move into delivery mode later in 2015, prior to the anticipated full roll-out of the programme in 2016.
A list of those organisations successful in proceeding to the next stage can be found at http://www.delni.gov.uk/index/successthroughskills/united-youth.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042200%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223899","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223899"}},{"id":"223898","reference":"AQW 42199/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-11","answerBy":"2015-02-26","answered":"2015-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on a strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services.","answerText":"Work on developing the new strategy ‘Advising, Supporting, Empowering – A strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services in Northern Ireland 2015 – 2020’ is at an advanced stage. Consultation with members of the public and other stakeholders has now been completed and it is anticipated that the new strategy will be launched in early summer 2015.","answerHtml":"Work on developing the new strategy ‘Advising, Supporting, Empowering – A strategy for the delivery of generalist advice services in Northern Ireland 2015 – 2020’ is at an advanced stage. Consultation with members of the public and other stakeholders has now been completed and it is anticipated that the new strategy will be launched in early summer 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042199%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223898"}},{"id":"223516","reference":"AQW 42089/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-10","answerBy":"2015-02-25","answered":"2015-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development who has responsibility for the payment of transport services which enable people with a range of disabilities, to access rural charitable community day centres.","answerText":"My Department provides funding from the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) for the Dial A Lift scheme, managed by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP’s). Dial A Lift is aimed at reducing social exclusion in rural areas for people with reduced mobility. This service is provided to all members of the scheme including people with disabilities who can avail of transport for various purposes that would include transport to rural charitable community day centres. Decisions on the use of grants are the responsibility of the RCTP’s.\n\nDemand for Dial A Lift services has grown over the last number of years and each Partnership now has to prioritise services to ensure that transport is available to its most vulnerable members.","answerHtml":"My Department provides funding from the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) for the Dial A Lift scheme, managed by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP’s). Dial A Lift is aimed at reducing social exclusion in rural areas for people with reduced mobility. This service is provided to all members of the scheme including people with disabilities who can avail of transport for various purposes that would include transport to rural charitable community day centres. Decisions on the use of grants are the responsibility of the RCTP’s.
Demand for Dial A Lift services has grown over the last number of years and each Partnership now has to prioritise services to ensure that transport is available to its most vulnerable members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042089%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223516","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223516"}},{"id":"223512","reference":"AQW 42085/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-10","answerBy":"2015-02-25","answered":"2015-03-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of the dial a lift community transport service.","answerText":"My Department provides funding from the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) for the Dial A Lift scheme, managed by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP’s). Dial A Lift is aimed at reducing social exclusion in rural areas for people with reduced mobility. This service is provided to all members of the scheme including people with disabilities who can avail of transport for various purposes that would include local shops, post office or bank, training and local employment, pharmacy, visiting friends or family and includes some local health service appointments.\n\nIn 2013/14 the Partnerships provided 243, 967 Dial A Lift Trips to 4780 active users. The grant from my Department in 2013/14 totalled £3.4 million.\n\nThe Partnerships also receive some financial support from Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) through the Assisted Rural Transport Scheme which allows individual members from the rural community to use their SmartPass to access transport through this scheme jointly funded by DARD.\n\nDemand for Dial A Lift services has grown over the last number of years and each Partnership now has to prioritise services to ensure that transport is available to the most vulnerable members.","answerHtml":"My Department provides funding from the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) for the Dial A Lift scheme, managed by the Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP’s). Dial A Lift is aimed at reducing social exclusion in rural areas for people with reduced mobility. This service is provided to all members of the scheme including people with disabilities who can avail of transport for various purposes that would include local shops, post office or bank, training and local employment, pharmacy, visiting friends or family and includes some local health service appointments.
In 2013/14 the Partnerships provided 243, 967 Dial A Lift Trips to 4780 active users. The grant from my Department in 2013/14 totalled £3.4 million.
The Partnerships also receive some financial support from Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) through the Assisted Rural Transport Scheme which allows individual members from the rural community to use their SmartPass to access transport through this scheme jointly funded by DARD.
Demand for Dial A Lift services has grown over the last number of years and each Partnership now has to prioritise services to ensure that transport is available to the most vulnerable members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042085%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223512","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223512"}},{"id":"223506","reference":"AQW 42081/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-10","answerBy":"2015-02-25","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the ‘World Around Us’ component of the Key Stage 2 curriculum, including its effectiveness in specifically encouraging students to pursue science subjects.","answerText":"The Department asked the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) to conduct a review of the implementation of the ‘World Around Us’ Area of Learning in 2013/14. The purpose of this review was to find out how primary schools are implementing and developing this Area of Learning. ETI's report found that most of the science and technology lessons observed by inspectors (86%) were evaluated as good or better. Over half of the lessons were evaluated as very good or outstanding. The report makes a number of recommendations and I have asked my officials to consider how these can be taken forward.\n\nAdditionally, the Department has a number of STEM intervention programmes and initiatives to complement the curriculum and together, I believe these are having a positive impact in terms of pupils pursuing science subjects. There has been an upward trend in the number of A-level STEM examination entries since 2007/08 rising from 38.2% to 41.2% in 2012/13.","answerHtml":"The Department asked the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) to conduct a review of the implementation of the ‘World Around Us’ Area of Learning in 2013/14. The purpose of this review was to find out how primary schools are implementing and developing this Area of Learning. ETI's report found that most of the science and technology lessons observed by inspectors (86%) were evaluated as good or better. Over half of the lessons were evaluated as very good or outstanding. The report makes a number of recommendations and I have asked my officials to consider how these can be taken forward.
Additionally, the Department has a number of STEM intervention programmes and initiatives to complement the curriculum and together, I believe these are having a positive impact in terms of pupils pursuing science subjects. There has been an upward trend in the number of A-level STEM examination entries since 2007/08 rising from 38.2% to 41.2% in 2012/13.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042081%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223506","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223506"}},{"id":"223504","reference":"AQW 42080/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-10","answerBy":"2015-02-25","answered":"2015-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what provision exists for small voluntary charitable community groups to enable them to bring people with psychological, physical and learning disabilities to and from day centres.","answerText":"There is no specific funding to bring people with psychological, physical and learning disabilities to and from day centres.\n\nDSD’s Volunteering Small Grants Programme delivers support direct to frontline volunteering organisations. The programme provides support to volunteer providing organisations to cover volunteer out-of-pocket expenses travel or equipment costs and over £1.4m has been allocated over the last two years supporting over 1300 organisations. The next phase of this programme is planned to launch in April / May 2015.\n\nIn addition the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has confirmed that they work with the Department for Regional Development (DRD) to provide support for the Elderly and Disabled. Individuals receive concessionary travel on Rural Community Transport Partnership vehicles and DARD currently provides support to community and voluntary groups in rural areas.","answerHtml":"There is no specific funding to bring people with psychological, physical and learning disabilities to and from day centres.
DSD’s Volunteering Small Grants Programme delivers support direct to frontline volunteering organisations. The programme provides support to volunteer providing organisations to cover volunteer out-of-pocket expenses travel or equipment costs and over £1.4m has been allocated over the last two years supporting over 1300 organisations. The next phase of this programme is planned to launch in April / May 2015.
In addition the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has confirmed that they work with the Department for Regional Development (DRD) to provide support for the Elderly and Disabled. Individuals receive concessionary travel on Rural Community Transport Partnership vehicles and DARD currently provides support to community and voluntary groups in rural areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042080%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223504","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223504"}},{"id":"223503","reference":"AQW 42079/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-10","answerBy":"2015-02-25","answered":"2015-02-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what short term support grants are available for small voluntary charitable community groups to help cover the cost of providing transport for clients to and from day centres.","answerText":"There is no specific funding to bring people to and from day centres.\n\nDSD’s Volunteering Small Grants Programme provides support direct to frontline volunteering organisations. The programme provides support to volunteer providing organisations to cover volunteer out-of-pocket expenses travel or equipment costs. In excess of £1.4m of funding has been allocated over the last two years supporting over 1300 organisations. The next phase of this programme is planned to launch in April / May 2015.\n\nThe Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has confirmed that they work with the Department for Regional Development (DRD) to provide support for the Elderly and Disabled. Individuals receive concessionary travel on Rural Community Transport Partnership vehicles and DARD currently provides support to community and voluntary groups in rural areas.\n\nIn addition, the Health and Social Care Board has confirmed that they do not operate a grants scheme. However, some Health and Social Care Trusts may have service level agreements with local voluntary and community groups. These agreements may have statutory transport provided or have a transport element reflected in the contract or are designed for people who make their way independently to the Day Centre.","answerHtml":"There is no specific funding to bring people to and from day centres.
DSD’s Volunteering Small Grants Programme provides support direct to frontline volunteering organisations. The programme provides support to volunteer providing organisations to cover volunteer out-of-pocket expenses travel or equipment costs. In excess of £1.4m of funding has been allocated over the last two years supporting over 1300 organisations. The next phase of this programme is planned to launch in April / May 2015.
The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (DARD) has confirmed that they work with the Department for Regional Development (DRD) to provide support for the Elderly and Disabled. Individuals receive concessionary travel on Rural Community Transport Partnership vehicles and DARD currently provides support to community and voluntary groups in rural areas.
In addition, the Health and Social Care Board has confirmed that they do not operate a grants scheme. However, some Health and Social Care Trusts may have service level agreements with local voluntary and community groups. These agreements may have statutory transport provided or have a transport element reflected in the contract or are designed for people who make their way independently to the Day Centre.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2042079%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223503","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223503"}},{"id":"223082","reference":"AQW 41980/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-09","answerBy":"2015-02-24","answered":"2015-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether the reduction of courses available for study at Ulster University provides space for a veterinary school at Coleraine.","answerText":"My understanding is that space was never an issue with regards to the proposal to establish a veterinary school at Ulster University’s Coleraine campus. The University is preparing a business case to support the establishment of the veterinary school but a complete full draft of the business case has never been submitted to my Department. The key issues are establishing that there is a need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland and securing the funding for it.","answerHtml":"My understanding is that space was never an issue with regards to the proposal to establish a veterinary school at Ulster University’s Coleraine campus. The University is preparing a business case to support the establishment of the veterinary school but a complete full draft of the business case has never been submitted to my Department. The key issues are establishing that there is a need for a veterinary school in Northern Ireland and securing the funding for it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041980%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223082","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223082"}},{"id":"223037","reference":"AQW 41961/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-09","answerBy":"2015-02-24","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of cold weather payments since 1 November 2014, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The information is not available in the format requested as Cold Weather Payments cannot be broken down by constituency. A Cold Weather Payment is triggered when the average temperature has been recorded, or is forecast to be zero degrees centigrade or below for 7 consecutive days between November and March at any of Met Office’s seven weather stations. The weather stations are located across Northern Ireland and cover a range of designated post code areas. Only those eligible claimants living in the postcode areas covered by the relevant weather station where the average temperature has been recorded or forecast to be zero degrees centigrade or below for 7 consecutive days will receive a payment.\n\nOne Cold Weather Payment has been triggered since 1 November 2014 based on temperature recordings at the Katesbridge weather station during the period 16-22 January 2015. An estimated 15,055 people living in postcode areas BT24-26 and BT30-34 have received the £25 payment.","answerHtml":"The information is not available in the format requested as Cold Weather Payments cannot be broken down by constituency. A Cold Weather Payment is triggered when the average temperature has been recorded, or is forecast to be zero degrees centigrade or below for 7 consecutive days between November and March at any of Met Office’s seven weather stations. The weather stations are located across Northern Ireland and cover a range of designated post code areas. Only those eligible claimants living in the postcode areas covered by the relevant weather station where the average temperature has been recorded or forecast to be zero degrees centigrade or below for 7 consecutive days will receive a payment.
One Cold Weather Payment has been triggered since 1 November 2014 based on temperature recordings at the Katesbridge weather station during the period 16-22 January 2015. An estimated 15,055 people living in postcode areas BT24-26 and BT30-34 have received the £25 payment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041961%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223037"}},{"id":"223034","reference":"AQW 41959/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-09","answerBy":"2015-02-24","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of how the rise of e-commerce is likely to impact upon the current high street business rates system in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Although the Revaluation has redistributed the rating burden in a way that is helpful to High Streets in many parts of Northern Ireland, it has not had the effect that many expected in some areas.\n\nI would like this year’s review of non-domestic taxation to consider if the current system is fit for purpose and whether there are alternative ways of raising revenue from businesses in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Although the Revaluation has redistributed the rating burden in a way that is helpful to High Streets in many parts of Northern Ireland, it has not had the effect that many expected in some areas.
I would like this year’s review of non-domestic taxation to consider if the current system is fit for purpose and whether there are alternative ways of raising revenue from businesses in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041959%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223034","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223034"}},{"id":"223032","reference":"AQW 41957/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-09","answerBy":"2015-02-24","answered":"2015-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of people who have enquired about a reassessment of a non-domestic rate bill since the Schedule of Draft Rateable Values was revealed in November 2014.","answerText":"Since the release of the schedule of draft rateable values on the 13th November 2014 there has been a total of 895 enquiries.\n\n597 of these have been general enquiries and 298 have been enquiries relating to the assessment of the property.","answerHtml":"Since the release of the schedule of draft rateable values on the 13th November 2014 there has been a total of 895 enquiries.
597 of these have been general enquiries and 298 have been enquiries relating to the assessment of the property.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041957%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223032"}},{"id":"223022","reference":"AQW 41948/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-09","answerBy":"2015-02-24","answered":"2015-02-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he will carry out a structural review of the business rates system in Northern Ireland, following the announcement of a review of the business rates system in England by the Chancellor of the Exchequer.","answerText":"In November 2013 I first stated to the Assembly that I was committed to a full review of the non-domestic rating system, which was well before the Chancellor’s announcement. At that time I outlined that this would begin after the non-domestic revaluation has bedded in, which will be before the summer.\n\nI would like the review to consider if the current system is fit for purpose and whether there are alternative ways of raising revenue from those who do business in Northern Ireland; either as a complete replacement or as a means of reducing the bills of those who currently pay business rates.","answerHtml":"In November 2013 I first stated to the Assembly that I was committed to a full review of the non-domestic rating system, which was well before the Chancellor’s announcement. At that time I outlined that this would begin after the non-domestic revaluation has bedded in, which will be before the summer.
I would like the review to consider if the current system is fit for purpose and whether there are alternative ways of raising revenue from those who do business in Northern Ireland; either as a complete replacement or as a means of reducing the bills of those who currently pay business rates.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041948%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=223022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=223022"}},{"id":"222924","reference":"AQW 41882/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-06","answerBy":"2015-02-23","answered":"2015-02-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of whether people who will see an increase in their rates through Reval 2015 NI will be those who have suffered the consequences of the recent recession most heavily.","answerText":"The current Valuation List was compiled in 2003 based on 2001 rental values and the updating of these values is long overdue. The purpose of the revaluation is to achieve a fairer redistribution of the rating burden amongst non domestic ratepayers using up to date market rental values.\n\nThese new values reflect current economic conditions and the relative success or decline of trading locations and sectors of business. Clearly this has been affected by the recession but the changes that are picked up by the Revaluation go further back than this to 2001.\n\nGenerally speaking, locations and sectors that have not fared so well over this longer period should experience a reduction in rate liability rather than an increase.","answerHtml":"The current Valuation List was compiled in 2003 based on 2001 rental values and the updating of these values is long overdue. The purpose of the revaluation is to achieve a fairer redistribution of the rating burden amongst non domestic ratepayers using up to date market rental values.
These new values reflect current economic conditions and the relative success or decline of trading locations and sectors of business. Clearly this has been affected by the recession but the changes that are picked up by the Revaluation go further back than this to 2001.
Generally speaking, locations and sectors that have not fared so well over this longer period should experience a reduction in rate liability rather than an increase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041882%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222924"}},{"id":"222910","reference":"AQW 41880/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-06","answerBy":"2015-02-23","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the Aiming High Programme in England; and whether he would consider a similar programme in order to transform services for children with a disability in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Aiming High for Disabled Children: Better Support for Families Report, published in 2007, tries to address the needs of disabled children and their families specifically within the English system. The report spans the responsibilities of a number of government departments and local government bodies.\n\nIn relation to my responsibilities for supporting the education of pupils with a disability here, I am content that an inclusive environment is promoted in all school settings to ensure that all pupils are valued. The learning needs of a pupil with special educational needs and a disability are addressed through the special educational needs framework and discrimination against pupils on the grounds of disability is prohibited within the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 (SENDO). School buildings are also required to be disability compliant as part of SENDO.","answerHtml":"The Aiming High for Disabled Children: Better Support for Families Report, published in 2007, tries to address the needs of disabled children and their families specifically within the English system. The report spans the responsibilities of a number of government departments and local government bodies.
In relation to my responsibilities for supporting the education of pupils with a disability here, I am content that an inclusive environment is promoted in all school settings to ensure that all pupils are valued. The learning needs of a pupil with special educational needs and a disability are addressed through the special educational needs framework and discrimination against pupils on the grounds of disability is prohibited within the Special Educational Needs and Disability (NI) Order 2005 (SENDO). School buildings are also required to be disability compliant as part of SENDO.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041880%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222910"}},{"id":"222883","reference":"AQW 41873/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-06","answerBy":"2015-02-23","answered":"2015-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment which areas of East Londonderry do not have adequate and reliable broadband coverage; and what measures her Department is taking to address this issue.","answerText":"I would refer the member to the NI Direct website (http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/broadband-improvement-project) where details of the postcode areas to be addressed by the current Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project (NIBIP) can be found. This project aims to improve the broadband connectivity for more than 45,000 premises by the end of 2015.\n\nIn addition, my Department has consulted on the proposed intervention area for the Superfast Roll-out Programme Phase 2 (SRP2) project, which seeks to further increase the coverage of superfast broadband services across Northern Ireland by 2017. An Invitation to Tender was issued on 12 November, with a closing date for bids of 26 January 2015. A bid was received and is under consideration. If this bid is acceptable, it is anticipated that contract award will take place in early March 2015.\n\nThe consultation document, which can be found on the DETI website (http://www.detini.gov.uk/index/what-we-do/deti-telecoms-index/consultations_from_2014/superfast_rollout_programme_phase_2.htm), contains a list of postcodes where it is considered additional public intervention may be required when the NIBIP is complete.","answerHtml":"I would refer the member to the NI Direct website (http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/broadband-improvement-project) where details of the postcode areas to be addressed by the current Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project (NIBIP) can be found. This project aims to improve the broadband connectivity for more than 45,000 premises by the end of 2015.
In addition, my Department has consulted on the proposed intervention area for the Superfast Roll-out Programme Phase 2 (SRP2) project, which seeks to further increase the coverage of superfast broadband services across Northern Ireland by 2017. An Invitation to Tender was issued on 12 November, with a closing date for bids of 26 January 2015. A bid was received and is under consideration. If this bid is acceptable, it is anticipated that contract award will take place in early March 2015.
The consultation document, which can be found on the DETI website (http://www.detini.gov.uk/index/what-we-do/deti-telecoms-index/consultations_from_2014/superfast_rollout_programme_phase_2.htm), contains a list of postcodes where it is considered additional public intervention may be required when the NIBIP is complete.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041873%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222883","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222883"}},{"id":"222882","reference":"AQW 41872/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-06","answerBy":"2015-02-23","answered":"2015-02-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment which areas of East Londonderry do not have adequate and reliable mobile phone coverage; and what measures her Department is taking to address this issue.","answerText":"My Department does not gather information on mobile coverage. Such data is collected by the telecommunications regulator, Ofcom and is published on an annual basis in its Infrastructure Reports. The latest report, published in December 2014, can be found at http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/research/infrastructure/2014/infrastructure-14.pdf. In addition, an interactive map, which allows users to assess the coverage and performance of the infrastructure in their area, can be found at http://infrastructure.ofcom.org.uk.\n\nThe telecommunications market is fully privatised and independently regulated, with investment decisions taken on the basis of commercial return. In recent years the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have been investing significantly to improve their 2G and 3G networks and Northern Ireland has seen some marked improvements, particularly with regard to 3G coverage, which is now on a par with the rest of the UK at 99% from at least one operator.\n\nTo address areas where the market is not currently investing, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is currently implementing the Mobile Infrastructure project which is focused on 2G technology. However, it is understood that operators will future proof the infrastructure being deployed, in order to further support 3G, 4G and beyond, where possible. Northern Ireland is in line for around 70 nominal, new mast sites under this project.\n\nIn addition, in December 2014, the UK Government announced that it had struck a deal with the MNOs which will see the mobile industry investing £5 billion in UK infrastructure and increasing coverage by 2017.\n\nMy Department maintains a watching brief on these initiatives and will assess the need for further Government intervention once they are complete.","answerHtml":"My Department does not gather information on mobile coverage. Such data is collected by the telecommunications regulator, Ofcom and is published on an annual basis in its Infrastructure Reports. The latest report, published in December 2014, can be found at http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/research/infrastructure/2014/infrastructure-14.pdf. In addition, an interactive map, which allows users to assess the coverage and performance of the infrastructure in their area, can be found at http://infrastructure.ofcom.org.uk.
The telecommunications market is fully privatised and independently regulated, with investment decisions taken on the basis of commercial return. In recent years the Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) have been investing significantly to improve their 2G and 3G networks and Northern Ireland has seen some marked improvements, particularly with regard to 3G coverage, which is now on a par with the rest of the UK at 99% from at least one operator.
To address areas where the market is not currently investing, the Department of Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) is currently implementing the Mobile Infrastructure project which is focused on 2G technology. However, it is understood that operators will future proof the infrastructure being deployed, in order to further support 3G, 4G and beyond, where possible. Northern Ireland is in line for around 70 nominal, new mast sites under this project.
In addition, in December 2014, the UK Government announced that it had struck a deal with the MNOs which will see the mobile industry investing £5 billion in UK infrastructure and increasing coverage by 2017.
My Department maintains a watching brief on these initiatives and will assess the need for further Government intervention once they are complete.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041872%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222882","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222882"}},{"id":"222867","reference":"AQW 41862/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-06","answerBy":"2015-02-23","answered":"2015-02-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the support provided by the Social Fund and Community Care Grants system to working parents on a low income, who have a child with a disability.","answerText":"The Social Fund scheme comprises a regulated element which provides entitlement to maternity, funeral, cold weather and winter fuel payments and a discretionary element made up of, Community Care Grants, Budgeting Loans and Crisis Loans. Subject to working parents on a low income satisfying the relevant qualifying conditions, they may be entitled to Cold Weather Payments, Community Care Grants, Budgeting Loans and Crisis Loans to meet the specific needs of a disabled child.\n\nMy Department’s Annual Report on the Social Fund was published on 17 December 2014 and provides details of the £82 million paid out from the discretionary element of the Social Fund during 2013/14. The report highlights that over:\n\n129,000 Budgeting Loans were awarded totalling £53.69 million\n\n103,000 Crisis Loans awards totalling £14.45 million were made\n\n20,000 Community Care Grants awards totalling £13.69 million were made\n\nInformation is not recorded separately on applications specifically related to disabled children, however, these figures are a clear indication that for thousands of people across Northern Ireland who are on low incomes, the Social Fund provides valuable assistance in helping them cope with unforeseen emergencies and managing unanticipated expenditure.","answerHtml":"The Social Fund scheme comprises a regulated element which provides entitlement to maternity, funeral, cold weather and winter fuel payments and a discretionary element made up of, Community Care Grants, Budgeting Loans and Crisis Loans. Subject to working parents on a low income satisfying the relevant qualifying conditions, they may be entitled to Cold Weather Payments, Community Care Grants, Budgeting Loans and Crisis Loans to meet the specific needs of a disabled child.
My Department’s Annual Report on the Social Fund was published on 17 December 2014 and provides details of the £82 million paid out from the discretionary element of the Social Fund during 2013/14. The report highlights that over:
129,000 Budgeting Loans were awarded totalling £53.69 million
103,000 Crisis Loans awards totalling £14.45 million were made
20,000 Community Care Grants awards totalling £13.69 million were made
Information is not recorded separately on applications specifically related to disabled children, however, these figures are a clear indication that for thousands of people across Northern Ireland who are on low incomes, the Social Fund provides valuable assistance in helping them cope with unforeseen emergencies and managing unanticipated expenditure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041862%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222867","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222867"}},{"id":"222772","reference":"AQW 41830/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-05","answerBy":"2015-02-20","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of organic farming in Northern Ireland; and what support is available from her Department.","answerText":"There is currently around 9,000ha of land within the north that is certified organic. This represents approximately 0.9% of the total area of agricultural land.\n\nHigher commodity prices in recent years have resulted in limited premiums at the farm gate for organic produce. This has led to a reduction in the number of organic producers from 224 in 2006 to currently some 150.\n\nOverall, because of the weak market, there has been limited opportunity to expand the sector. Therefore, any further development is likely to be into supplying niche markets. My Department will continue to work with the sector, listen to market signals, and help the sector develop in areas where there are opportunities.\n\nUnder the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 my Department provided financial support to 39 farmers through the Organic Farming Scheme for conversion to organic production. It also provided an organic maintenance payment to 10 farmers through the Organic Management Option within the NI Countryside Management Scheme.\n\nFurthermore, ongoing technical advice and training courses on growing organic produce are available through CAFRE’s Development Advisers and Technologists. There is a fully operational organic farm at Greenmount College, which farmers can visit to learn more about best practice in organic production methods. DARD Supply Chain Advisers can also provide supply chain and marketing advice.\n\nMy Department also offers a wide range of support through various other schemes, which are open to all farmers, including organic farmers.\n\nMy officials are currently reviewing what support for the maintenance of organic production may be possible under the new Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.","answerHtml":"There is currently around 9,000ha of land within the north that is certified organic. This represents approximately 0.9% of the total area of agricultural land.
Higher commodity prices in recent years have resulted in limited premiums at the farm gate for organic produce. This has led to a reduction in the number of organic producers from 224 in 2006 to currently some 150.
Overall, because of the weak market, there has been limited opportunity to expand the sector. Therefore, any further development is likely to be into supplying niche markets. My Department will continue to work with the sector, listen to market signals, and help the sector develop in areas where there are opportunities.
Under the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 my Department provided financial support to 39 farmers through the Organic Farming Scheme for conversion to organic production. It also provided an organic maintenance payment to 10 farmers through the Organic Management Option within the NI Countryside Management Scheme.
Furthermore, ongoing technical advice and training courses on growing organic produce are available through CAFRE’s Development Advisers and Technologists. There is a fully operational organic farm at Greenmount College, which farmers can visit to learn more about best practice in organic production methods. DARD Supply Chain Advisers can also provide supply chain and marketing advice.
My Department also offers a wide range of support through various other schemes, which are open to all farmers, including organic farmers.
My officials are currently reviewing what support for the maintenance of organic production may be possible under the new Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041830%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222772","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222772"}},{"id":"222771","reference":"AQW 41829/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-05","answerBy":"2015-02-20","answered":"2015-02-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to outline the criteria that community groups are required to fulfil in order to be eligible for rural transport support through the Rural Transport Fund; and how an assessment of eligibility is carried out.","answerText":"My Department currently administers a Voucher Scheme from the Rural Transport Fund (RTF). This scheme provides a voucher to the value of £100 towards their travel costs, to Community groups where more than 17 people are travelling.\n\nThe criteria for eligibility is that the group must have a formal Constitution for their organisation; be charitable / non-profit making; include 17 or more people travelling; and be based in a rural area (at least 50% of the group members from a rural area). Priority is given to elderly and disability groups; in line with the overall priorities of RTF funding.\n\nRural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP’s) also operate a Group Hire Transport Service either self drive or driver provided to Member Groups who meet the membership criteria requested by the partnerships.\n\nWe are currently assessing the overall budgetary context for next year and this may impact on the services listed above.","answerHtml":"My Department currently administers a Voucher Scheme from the Rural Transport Fund (RTF). This scheme provides a voucher to the value of £100 towards their travel costs, to Community groups where more than 17 people are travelling.
The criteria for eligibility is that the group must have a formal Constitution for their organisation; be charitable / non-profit making; include 17 or more people travelling; and be based in a rural area (at least 50% of the group members from a rural area). Priority is given to elderly and disability groups; in line with the overall priorities of RTF funding.
Rural Community Transport Partnerships (RCTP’s) also operate a Group Hire Transport Service either self drive or driver provided to Member Groups who meet the membership criteria requested by the partnerships.
We are currently assessing the overall budgetary context for next year and this may impact on the services listed above.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041829%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222771"}},{"id":"222768","reference":"AQW 41828/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-05","answerBy":"2015-02-20","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many groups representing people with a disability applied for the European Social Fund in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry.","answerText":"A total of 33 applications were submitted from groups representing people with a disability to the European Social Fund by the closing date of 9 January 2015. One of the above applications came from an organisation in the East Londonderry constituency.","answerHtml":"A total of 33 applications were submitted from groups representing people with a disability to the European Social Fund by the closing date of 9 January 2015. One of the above applications came from an organisation in the East Londonderry constituency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041828%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222768","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222768"}},{"id":"222766","reference":"AQW 41827/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-05","answerBy":"2015-02-20","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of participants on the Steps 2 Success and Steps Work Programmes who have been offered employment by their work placement, following its completion.","answerText":"The Steps 2 Success programme is designed to assist unemployed participants find and sustain work. Each of the three Lead Contractors that deliver the programme has designed a wide range of provision to help participants find work. The Contractors have all worked with their supply chain partners to put in place the same service to that available from the Lead Contractor. The service delivered to all participants must at least meet standards set by the Department in a Service Guarantee. All delivery organisations will agree a Progression to Employment Plan that will outline the activities that each will complete to address the participant’s assessed barriers to employment. The Progression to Employment Plan will be updated regularly to take account of the participant’s improvement in job readiness. The Lead Contractors and partners will also work with a wide range of employers to identify jobs and match participants to these. All activities undertaken by participants are based on helping the participant finding their job goal.\n\nIn delivering the service there are a range of supports offered by each of the Lead Contractors to their supply chain partners, these include: dedicated supply chain management team; staff training; computer hardware and dedicated software package; performance management regime including assisting with underperformance; provision of detailed and timely Management Information; clearly defined performance targets; compliance and audit support; quality management regime; and Human Resources support.\n\nThose participants who complete their attachment period on Steps 2 Success without having found employment are referred back to an Employment Service Adviser. They will build on the improvement in employability that have occurred during their Steps 2 Success attachment.\n\nThe Steps to Work Programme was closed to new entrants in May 2014.","answerHtml":"The Steps 2 Success programme is designed to assist unemployed participants find and sustain work. Each of the three Lead Contractors that deliver the programme has designed a wide range of provision to help participants find work. The Contractors have all worked with their supply chain partners to put in place the same service to that available from the Lead Contractor. The service delivered to all participants must at least meet standards set by the Department in a Service Guarantee. All delivery organisations will agree a Progression to Employment Plan that will outline the activities that each will complete to address the participant’s assessed barriers to employment. The Progression to Employment Plan will be updated regularly to take account of the participant’s improvement in job readiness. The Lead Contractors and partners will also work with a wide range of employers to identify jobs and match participants to these. All activities undertaken by participants are based on helping the participant finding their job goal.
In delivering the service there are a range of supports offered by each of the Lead Contractors to their supply chain partners, these include: dedicated supply chain management team; staff training; computer hardware and dedicated software package; performance management regime including assisting with underperformance; provision of detailed and timely Management Information; clearly defined performance targets; compliance and audit support; quality management regime; and Human Resources support.
Those participants who complete their attachment period on Steps 2 Success without having found employment are referred back to an Employment Service Adviser. They will build on the improvement in employability that have occurred during their Steps 2 Success attachment.
The Steps to Work Programme was closed to new entrants in May 2014.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041827%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222766"}},{"id":"222764","reference":"AQW 41826/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-05","answerBy":"2015-02-20","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the support available for partners of the Steps 2 Success and Steps to Work Programmes to enable them to offer employment to people who complete a placement.","answerText":"The Steps 2 Success programme is designed to assist unemployed participants find and sustain work. Each of the three Lead Contractors that deliver the programme has designed a wide range of provision to help participants find work. The Contractors have all worked with their supply chain partners to put in place the same service to that available from the Lead Contractor. The service delivered to all participants must at least meet standards set by the Department in a Service Guarantee. All delivery organisations will agree a Progression to Employment Plan that will outline the activities that each will complete to address the participant’s assessed barriers to employment. The Progression to Employment Plan will be updated regularly to take account of the participant’s improvement in job readiness. The Lead Contractors and partners will also work with a wide range of employers to identify jobs and match participants to these. All activities undertaken by participants are based on helping the participant finding their job goal.\n\nIn delivering the service there are a range of supports offered by each of the Lead Contractors to their supply chain partners, these include: dedicated supply chain management team; staff training; computer hardware and dedicated software package; performance management regime including assisting with underperformance; provision of detailed and timely Management Information; clearly defined performance targets; compliance and audit support; quality management regime; and Human Resources support.\n\nThose participants who complete their attachment period on Steps 2 Success without having found employment are referred back to an Employment Service Adviser. They will build on the improvement in employability that have occurred during their Steps 2 Success attachment.\n\nThe Steps to Work Programme was closed to new entrants in May 2014.","answerHtml":"The Steps 2 Success programme is designed to assist unemployed participants find and sustain work. Each of the three Lead Contractors that deliver the programme has designed a wide range of provision to help participants find work. The Contractors have all worked with their supply chain partners to put in place the same service to that available from the Lead Contractor. The service delivered to all participants must at least meet standards set by the Department in a Service Guarantee. All delivery organisations will agree a Progression to Employment Plan that will outline the activities that each will complete to address the participant’s assessed barriers to employment. The Progression to Employment Plan will be updated regularly to take account of the participant’s improvement in job readiness. The Lead Contractors and partners will also work with a wide range of employers to identify jobs and match participants to these. All activities undertaken by participants are based on helping the participant finding their job goal.
In delivering the service there are a range of supports offered by each of the Lead Contractors to their supply chain partners, these include: dedicated supply chain management team; staff training; computer hardware and dedicated software package; performance management regime including assisting with underperformance; provision of detailed and timely Management Information; clearly defined performance targets; compliance and audit support; quality management regime; and Human Resources support.
Those participants who complete their attachment period on Steps 2 Success without having found employment are referred back to an Employment Service Adviser. They will build on the improvement in employability that have occurred during their Steps 2 Success attachment.
The Steps to Work Programme was closed to new entrants in May 2014.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041826%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222764","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222764"}},{"id":"222763","reference":"AQO 7578/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-05","answerBy":"2015-02-16","answered":"2015-02-16","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the proposed Northern Ireland Investment Fund.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207578%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222763","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-02-16&docID=224230#AQO%207578/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222763"}},{"id":"222588","reference":"AQW 41769/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-04","answerBy":"2015-02-19","answered":"2015-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the process for registering Power of Attorney in Northern Ireland, compared to the process in England and Wales.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables a Donor to appoint a person to deal with their property and affairs. Subject to any conditions imposed by the Donor, the EPA can take effect as soon as it is signed by the Attorney. If the Donor becomes mentally incapable of managing their affairs, the EPA will remain valid provided that it is registered with the High Court (Office of Care and Protection). Registration is not required until the point where the Attorney believes the Donor is no longer capable of managing their affairs.\n\nIn England and Wales the EPA was replaced with a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in 2007. There are two types of LPA, a property and financial affairs LPA and a health and welfare LPA. The Donor can set up one or both.\n\nLPAs must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used. The health and welfare LPA can only be used when the Donor is unable to make their own decisions.\n\nInformation about the procedures in both jurisdictions is available on the government websites, NIdirect and Gov.uk.","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPA) enables a Donor to appoint a person to deal with their property and affairs. Subject to any conditions imposed by the Donor, the EPA can take effect as soon as it is signed by the Attorney. If the Donor becomes mentally incapable of managing their affairs, the EPA will remain valid provided that it is registered with the High Court (Office of Care and Protection). Registration is not required until the point where the Attorney believes the Donor is no longer capable of managing their affairs.
In England and Wales the EPA was replaced with a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) in 2007. There are two types of LPA, a property and financial affairs LPA and a health and welfare LPA. The Donor can set up one or both.
LPAs must be registered with the Office of the Public Guardian before they can be used. The health and welfare LPA can only be used when the Donor is unable to make their own decisions.
Information about the procedures in both jurisdictions is available on the government websites, NIdirect and Gov.uk.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041769%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222588","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222588"}},{"id":"222583","reference":"AQW 41765/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-04","answerBy":"2015-02-19","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of professional development opportunities currently available for youth work staff.","answerText":"The professional development of youth work staff is an operational matter for the Education and Library Boards and the Youth Council. All of the Boards and the Youth Council have an ongoing commitment to support the professional development of staff.","answerHtml":"The professional development of youth work staff is an operational matter for the Education and Library Boards and the Youth Council. All of the Boards and the Youth Council have an ongoing commitment to support the professional development of staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041765%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222583","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222583"}},{"id":"222581","reference":"AQW 41764/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-04","answerBy":"2015-02-19","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister when the Ageing Strategy is expected to be published.","answerText":"The Active Ageing Strategy is currently being finalised and, subject to Committee consideration and Executive approval, will be published in due course.","answerHtml":"The Active Ageing Strategy is currently being finalised and, subject to Committee consideration and Executive approval, will be published in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041764%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222581"}},{"id":"222580","reference":"AQW 41763/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-04","answerBy":"2015-02-19","answered":"2015-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether there are plans to include children and young people in the extension of age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services.","answerText":"We made a written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015 announcing our decision to take forward proposals to extend anti-discrimination law to give legal protection from unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services. The proposed legislation will apply to people aged 16 and over.","answerHtml":"We made a written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015 announcing our decision to take forward proposals to extend anti-discrimination law to give legal protection from unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services. The proposed legislation will apply to people aged 16 and over.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041763%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222580","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222580"}},{"id":"222579","reference":"AQW 41762/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-04","answerBy":"2015-02-19","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to list the groups who have benefitted from funding through the Supporting People Programme, each year since 2012 ; and how they are likely to be impacted if funding is cut.","answerText":"The classification of the main groups of people who have benefitted from the Supporting People Programme each year since 2012 is as follows:\n\nLearning Disability\n\nHomeless\n\nMental Health\n\nOlder People (including with Mental Health Problems / Dementia)\n\nDomestic Violence\n\nYoung People at Risk\n\nPeople with addictions including alcohol problems\n\nCriminal Justice, Offenders or People at risk of Offending\n\nPhysical Impairment\n\nMultiple / Complex Needs\n\nEthnic Minorities\n\nIt is difficult to comment in view of the number and variety of Supporting People services what would happen if the level of Supporting People funding were to be reduced and not replaced by funding from other sources but at present there are no plans to reduce funding from current levels.","answerHtml":"The classification of the main groups of people who have benefitted from the Supporting People Programme each year since 2012 is as follows:
Learning Disability
Homeless
Mental Health
Older People (including with Mental Health Problems / Dementia)
Domestic Violence
Young People at Risk
People with addictions including alcohol problems
Criminal Justice, Offenders or People at risk of Offending
Physical Impairment
Multiple / Complex Needs
Ethnic Minorities
It is difficult to comment in view of the number and variety of Supporting People services what would happen if the level of Supporting People funding were to be reduced and not replaced by funding from other sources but at present there are no plans to reduce funding from current levels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041762%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222579"}},{"id":"222287","reference":"AQW 41693/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-03","answerBy":"2015-02-18","answered":"2015-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 41202/11-15, to detail the support, other than financial provision, which is available.","answerText":"All of the further and higher education institutions in Northern Ireland offer a wide range of support services to all students, some of whom will have caring responsibilities.\n\nFurther Education colleges provide a wide range of non-financial support for students with caring responsibilities in relation to entering, sustaining and achieving in FE. Student support teams within FE colleges provide pastoral care to all students and work closely with those students who have declared themselves as being carers to ensure they are not disadvantaged. Such support can include individually tailored timetables to facilitate carer duties; the use of technology to support students to access course information remotely and to complete assignments online; and time off at short or without any notice for medical/hospital appointments.\n\nNorthern Ireland’s higher education providers also provide a range of support services to both full-time and part-time students. The nature of the support will vary according to the needs of the individual student but can include the support of a tutor / mentor and flexibility with course delivery and assessment, including extensions if necessary, for coursework submissions. In addition, it is a basic function of student support services that staff are alert to the needs of students, including carers, and that they are sign-posted appropriately so that help and advice can be accessed in a timely manner.\n\nAccess to Success, my Department’s regional strategy for widening participation in higher education, has identified adult learners as a group which faces barriers to their participation in higher education. In some cases this will include adult learners who find it difficult to engage in education because of caring responsibilities. Access to Success aims to give groups such as adult learners the encouragement and support they need to achieve the necessary qualifications to apply to, and to benefit from, the higher education that is right for them, irrespective of their personal or social background.","answerHtml":"All of the further and higher education institutions in Northern Ireland offer a wide range of support services to all students, some of whom will have caring responsibilities.
Further Education colleges provide a wide range of non-financial support for students with caring responsibilities in relation to entering, sustaining and achieving in FE. Student support teams within FE colleges provide pastoral care to all students and work closely with those students who have declared themselves as being carers to ensure they are not disadvantaged. Such support can include individually tailored timetables to facilitate carer duties; the use of technology to support students to access course information remotely and to complete assignments online; and time off at short or without any notice for medical/hospital appointments.
Northern Ireland’s higher education providers also provide a range of support services to both full-time and part-time students. The nature of the support will vary according to the needs of the individual student but can include the support of a tutor / mentor and flexibility with course delivery and assessment, including extensions if necessary, for coursework submissions. In addition, it is a basic function of student support services that staff are alert to the needs of students, including carers, and that they are sign-posted appropriately so that help and advice can be accessed in a timely manner.
Access to Success, my Department’s regional strategy for widening participation in higher education, has identified adult learners as a group which faces barriers to their participation in higher education. In some cases this will include adult learners who find it difficult to engage in education because of caring responsibilities. Access to Success aims to give groups such as adult learners the encouragement and support they need to achieve the necessary qualifications to apply to, and to benefit from, the higher education that is right for them, irrespective of their personal or social background.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041693%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222287","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222287"}},{"id":"222286","reference":"AQW 41692/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-03","answerBy":"2015-02-18","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 41203/11-15, to detail the projects, including the partners, which have been delivered in East Londonderry to address fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people, since 2013.","answerText":"The Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan 2012-14 sets out actions being taken by my Department and delivery partners in relation to reducing fear of crime and helping older and vulnerable people feel safer as outlined in the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017.\n\nWith regard to East Londonderry, Coleraine, Derry and Limavady PCSPs continue to deliver local initiatives to address fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people. In Derry, the Foyle Safer Homes initiative supplies and fits home security equipment for elderly and vulnerable people. Specific data are not available for the wards in East Londonderry.\n\nDetails of the projects delivered since April 2013 to date by Coleraine and Limavady PCSPs are set out below at Annex A.\n\nANNEX A\n\nCOLERAINE PCSP\n\nProject Title\tDate\tPartners\tCosts\n1\tGood Morning Causeway\nTo help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community through the provision of a daily telephone support service.\tApr 13 to\nMar 14\tWest Bann Development\t£6,000\n2\tCauseway VIP Scheme\nTo supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas.\tApr 13 to\nMar 14\tPSNI Crime Prevent Officer\nColeraine Borough Council Environmental Services\nVictim Support NI\t£5,750\n3\tAge Concern – Generation Now Project\nThis project contributed to age friendly activities where both younger and older people participated in a range of mutually beneficial and purposeful activities. The project centred on themes of stereotypes, perceptions, fear of crime, prejudice and a shared future to overcome these issues.\tOct 13 to Mar 14\tAge Concern\nLinking Generations\t£678.40\n4\tAge Concern – Safe & Sound Roadshow\nThe project aimed to improve community safety by tackling anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime through the provision of a Safe & Sound Roadshow. It was delivered at a Town Centre Marquee\tDec 13\tAge Concern Staff & Volunteers\nPCSP Board Members\nColeraine Borough Council\t£1,215\n5\tIntergenerational PCSP Cluster Conference\nThe conference provided information about LGNI’s ‘Intergenerational Safer Communities’ project. It also give those present an opportunity to reflect on the potential of all-age approaches to contribute to building safer, shared and confident communities It provided a platform to learn about the support that LGNI can provide to organisations in developing inter-generational practice\tJan 2014\tPCSP Board Members\nAge Concern\nWest Bann Development\nLinking Generations\t£1,320\n6\tGood Morning Causeway\nTo help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community through the provision of a daily telephone support service.\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tWest Bann Development\t£6,000\n7\tCauseway VIP Scheme\nTo supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas.\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tPSNI Crime Prevent Officer\nColeraine Borough Council Environmental Services\nVictim Support NI\t£4,000\n8\tIntergenerational Project – ‘Down the Decades’\nThis project brought together a range of young & old citizens from within the Coleraine Borough with the aim of breaking down age barriers, perceptions of age groups and in assisting to reduce the fear of crime.\tAug 14\nTo\nDec 14\tPCSP Board Members\nColeraine Free Presbyterian Church\nColeraine Youth Group\t£1,750\n\n9\tIntergenerational Project – Riding for the Disabled (RDA)\nRDA project aimed to improve relationships between old and young people across the cluster area. They worked in partnership to provide a service to disabled clients and the local community. Breaking down barriers between age groups and perceptions. It assisted in reducing the fear of crime and enhanced greater community safety\tJan 14 to\nMar 14\tGood Morning Causeway\nAge Concern\nColeraine Rural & Urban Network\nPSNI\nPBNI\t£4,000\n10\tVulnerable Adult & Older Persons Consultation Exercise\nIn preparation of and to assist in the delivery of a new Causeway Coast and Glens (CC&G) PCSP Action-plan, Coleraine PCSP wish to appoint a service provider with appropriate expertise to undertake a consultation process with our vulnerable adult and older person population in terms of policing and community safety (including issues relating to the fear of crime). The exercise will include a requirement to provide a suggested range of projects and/or interventions which the new CC&G PCSP may wish to support. The findings will also provide evidence-based research to inform the local police Commander on policing and community safety issues relevant to the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council area in relation to our vulnerable adults and older persons.\tFeb 15 to\nMar 15\tPCSP\t£3,500\n\nLIMAVADY PCSP\n\nProject Title\tDate\tPartners\tCosts\n1\tSafe Home\nProvision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event.\tApr 13 to\nMar 14\tPSNI\nBe Safe Be Well.\t£6,000\n2\tPCSP Themed Public Meeting\nLimavady PCSP Policing Committee held a public themed meeting for elderly and vulnerable on Monday 16th September 2013 in Foreglen Community Centre. This meeting was attended by approximately 124 elderly and vulnerable and included engagement, consultation and advice\tSep 2013\tPSNI\nBe Safe Be Well.\t£200\n3\tSafe Home\nProvision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event.\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tPSNI\nBe Safe Be Well.\t£10,000\n4\tElder Abuse\nInitiative focusing on elder abuse was developed and delivered by Limavady PCSP to raise awareness of the issue via the provision of information and advice, specifically focusing on education, harm reduction and signposting to local services\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tBe Safe Be Well\t£3,000\n\nCOLERAINE PCSP\n\nProject Title\tDate\tPartners\tCosts\n1\tGood Morning Causeway\n(Service Level Agreement)\nTo help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community\nThe provision of a daily telephone support service to the more vulnerable members of the community.\tApr 13 to\nMar 14\tWest Bann Development\t£6,000\n2\tCauseway VIP Scheme\nTo supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas.\tApr 13 to\nMar 14\tPSNI Crime Prevent Officer\nColeraine Borough Council Environmental Services\nVictim Support NI\t£4,000\n3\tCauseway VIP Scheme\nTo supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas.\tDec 13\nTo\nMar 14\tPSNI Crime Prevent Officer\nColeraine Borough Council Environmental Services\nVictim Support NI\t£1,750\n4\tAge Concern – Generation Now Project\nThis project contributed to age friendly activities where both younger and older people participated in a range of mutually beneficial and purposeful activities. The project centred on themes of stereotypes, perceptions, fear of crime, prejudice and a shared future to overcome these issues.\tOct 13 to Mar 14\tAge Concern\nLinking Generations\t£678.40\n(£750)\n5\tAge Concern – Safe & Sound Roadshow\nThe project aimed to improve community safety by tackling anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime through the provision of a Safe & Sound Roadshow. It was delivered at a Town Centre Marquee\tDec 13\tAge Concern Staff & Volunteers\nPCSP Board Members\nColeraine Borough Council\t£1,215\n6\tIntergenerational PCSP Cluster Conference\nThe conference provided information about LGNI’s ‘Intergenerational Safer Communities’ project. It also give those present an opportunity to reflect on the potential of all-age approaches to contribute to building safer, shared and confident communities It provided a platform to learn about the support that LGNI can provide to organisations in developing inter-generational practice\tJan 2014\tPCSP Board Members\nAge Concern\nWest Bann Development\nLinking Generations\t£1,320\n7\tGood Morning Causeway\nTo help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community\nThe provision of a daily telephone support service to the more vulnerable members of the community.\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tWest Bann Development\t£6,000\n8\tCauseway VIP Scheme\nTo supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas.\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tPSNI Crime Prevent Officer\nColeraine Borough Council Environmental Services\nVictim Support NI\t£4,000\n\n9\tIntergenerational Project – ‘Down the Decades’\nThis project brought together a range of young & old citizens from within the Coleraine Borough with the aim of breaking down age barriers, perceptions of age groups and in assisting to reduce the fear of crime.\tAug 14\nTo\nDec 14\tPCSP Board Members\nColeraine Free Presbyterian Church\nColeraine Youth Group\t£1,750\n10\tIntergenerational Project – Riding for the Disabled (RDA)\nRDA project aimed to improve relationships between old and young people across the cluster area. They worked in partnership to provide a service to disabled clients and the local community. Breaking down barriers between age groups and perceptions. It assisted in reducing the fear of crime and enhanced greater community safety\tJan 14 to\nMar 14\tGood Morning Causeway\nAge Concern\nColeraine Rural & Urban Network\nPSNI\nPBNI\t£4,000\n11\tVulnerable Adult & Older Persons Consultation Exercise\nIn preparation of and to assist in the delivery of a new Causeway Coast and Glens (CC&G) PCSP Action-plan, Coleraine PCSP wish to appoint a service provider with appropriate expertise to undertake a consultation process with our vulnerable adult and older person population in terms of policing and community safety (including issues relating to the fear of crime). The exercise will include a requirement to provide a suggested range of projects and/or interventions which the new CC&G PCSP may wish to support. The findings will also provide evidence-based research to inform the local police Commander on policing and community safety issues relevant to the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council area in relation to our vulnerable adults and older persons.\tFeb 15 to\nMar 15\tPCSP\t£3,500\n\nLIMAVADY PCSP\n\nProject Title\tDate\tPartners\tCosts\n1\tSafe Home\nProvision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event.\tApr 13 to\nMar 14\tPSNI\nBe Safe Be Well.\t£6,000\n2\tPCSP Themed Public Meeting\nLimavady PCSP Policing Committee held a public themed meeting for elderly and vulnerable on Monday 16th September 2013 in Foreglen Community Centre. This meeting was attended by approximately 124 elderly and vulnerable and included engagement, consultation and advice\tSep 2013\tPSNI\nBe Safe Be Well.\t£0\n3\tSafe Home\nProvision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event.\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tPSNI\nBe Safe Be Well.\t£10,000\n4\tElder Abuse\nInitiative focusing on elder abuse was developed and delivered by Limavady PCSP to raise awareness of the issue via the provision of information and advice, specifically focusing on education, harm reduction and signposting to local services\tApr 14 to\nMar 15\tBe Safe Be Well\t£3,000","answerHtml":"The Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan 2012-14 sets out actions being taken by my Department and delivery partners in relation to reducing fear of crime and helping older and vulnerable people feel safer as outlined in the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017.
With regard to East Londonderry, Coleraine, Derry and Limavady PCSPs continue to deliver local initiatives to address fear of crime amongst older and vulnerable people. In Derry, the Foyle Safer Homes initiative supplies and fits home security equipment for elderly and vulnerable people. Specific data are not available for the wards in East Londonderry.
Details of the projects delivered since April 2013 to date by Coleraine and Limavady PCSPs are set out below at Annex A.
ANNEX A
COLERAINE PCSP
| Project Title | Date | Partners | Costs | |
| 1 | Good Morning Causeway To help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community through the provision of a daily telephone support service. | Apr 13 to Mar 14 | West Bann Development | £6,000 |
| 2 | Causeway VIP Scheme To supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas. | Apr 13 to Mar 14 | PSNI Crime Prevent Officer Coleraine Borough Council Environmental Services Victim Support NI | £5,750 |
| 3 | Age Concern – Generation Now Project This project contributed to age friendly activities where both younger and older people participated in a range of mutually beneficial and purposeful activities. The project centred on themes of stereotypes, perceptions, fear of crime, prejudice and a shared future to overcome these issues. | Oct 13 to Mar 14 | Age Concern Linking Generations | £678.40 |
| 4 | Age Concern – Safe & Sound Roadshow The project aimed to improve community safety by tackling anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime through the provision of a Safe & Sound Roadshow. It was delivered at a Town Centre Marquee | Dec 13 | Age Concern Staff & Volunteers PCSP Board Members Coleraine Borough Council | £1,215 |
| 5 | Intergenerational PCSP Cluster Conference The conference provided information about LGNI’s ‘Intergenerational Safer Communities’ project. It also give those present an opportunity to reflect on the potential of all-age approaches to contribute to building safer, shared and confident communities It provided a platform to learn about the support that LGNI can provide to organisations in developing inter-generational practice | Jan 2014 | PCSP Board Members Age Concern West Bann Development Linking Generations | £1,320 |
| 6 | Good Morning Causeway To help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community through the provision of a daily telephone support service. | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | West Bann Development | £6,000 |
| 7 | Causeway VIP Scheme To supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas. | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | PSNI Crime Prevent Officer Coleraine Borough Council Environmental Services Victim Support NI | £4,000 |
| 8 | Intergenerational Project – ‘Down the Decades’ This project brought together a range of young & old citizens from within the Coleraine Borough with the aim of breaking down age barriers, perceptions of age groups and in assisting to reduce the fear of crime. | Aug 14 To Dec 14 | PCSP Board Members Coleraine Free Presbyterian Church Coleraine Youth Group | £1,750 |
| 9 | Intergenerational Project – Riding for the Disabled (RDA) RDA project aimed to improve relationships between old and young people across the cluster area. They worked in partnership to provide a service to disabled clients and the local community. Breaking down barriers between age groups and perceptions. It assisted in reducing the fear of crime and enhanced greater community safety | Jan 14 to Mar 14 | Good Morning Causeway Age Concern Coleraine Rural & Urban Network PSNI PBNI | £4,000 |
| 10 | Vulnerable Adult & Older Persons Consultation Exercise In preparation of and to assist in the delivery of a new Causeway Coast and Glens (CC&G) PCSP Action-plan, Coleraine PCSP wish to appoint a service provider with appropriate expertise to undertake a consultation process with our vulnerable adult and older person population in terms of policing and community safety (including issues relating to the fear of crime). The exercise will include a requirement to provide a suggested range of projects and/or interventions which the new CC&G PCSP may wish to support. The findings will also provide evidence-based research to inform the local police Commander on policing and community safety issues relevant to the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council area in relation to our vulnerable adults and older persons. | Feb 15 to Mar 15 | PCSP | £3,500 |
LIMAVADY PCSP
| Project Title | Date | Partners | Costs | |
| 1 | Safe Home Provision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event. | Apr 13 to Mar 14 | PSNI Be Safe Be Well. | £6,000 |
| 2 | PCSP Themed Public Meeting Limavady PCSP Policing Committee held a public themed meeting for elderly and vulnerable on Monday 16th September 2013 in Foreglen Community Centre. This meeting was attended by approximately 124 elderly and vulnerable and included engagement, consultation and advice | Sep 2013 | PSNI Be Safe Be Well. | £200 |
| 3 | Safe Home Provision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event. | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | PSNI Be Safe Be Well. | £10,000 |
| 4 | Elder Abuse Initiative focusing on elder abuse was developed and delivered by Limavady PCSP to raise awareness of the issue via the provision of information and advice, specifically focusing on education, harm reduction and signposting to local services | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | Be Safe Be Well | £3,000 |
COLERAINE PCSP
| Project Title | Date | Partners | Costs | |
| 1 | Good Morning Causeway (Service Level Agreement) To help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community The provision of a daily telephone support service to the more vulnerable members of the community. | Apr 13 to Mar 14 | West Bann Development | £6,000 |
| 2 | Causeway VIP Scheme To supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas. | Apr 13 to Mar 14 | PSNI Crime Prevent Officer Coleraine Borough Council Environmental Services Victim Support NI | £4,000 |
| 3 | Causeway VIP Scheme To supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas. | Dec 13 To Mar 14 | PSNI Crime Prevent Officer Coleraine Borough Council Environmental Services Victim Support NI | £1,750 |
| 4 | Age Concern – Generation Now Project This project contributed to age friendly activities where both younger and older people participated in a range of mutually beneficial and purposeful activities. The project centred on themes of stereotypes, perceptions, fear of crime, prejudice and a shared future to overcome these issues. | Oct 13 to Mar 14 | Age Concern Linking Generations | £678.40 (£750) |
| 5 | Age Concern – Safe & Sound Roadshow The project aimed to improve community safety by tackling anti-social behaviour and the fear of crime through the provision of a Safe & Sound Roadshow. It was delivered at a Town Centre Marquee | Dec 13 | Age Concern Staff & Volunteers PCSP Board Members Coleraine Borough Council | £1,215 |
| 6 | Intergenerational PCSP Cluster Conference The conference provided information about LGNI’s ‘Intergenerational Safer Communities’ project. It also give those present an opportunity to reflect on the potential of all-age approaches to contribute to building safer, shared and confident communities It provided a platform to learn about the support that LGNI can provide to organisations in developing inter-generational practice | Jan 2014 | PCSP Board Members Age Concern West Bann Development Linking Generations | £1,320 |
| 7 | Good Morning Causeway To help reduce the fear of crime felt by the more isolated and vulnerable members of the community The provision of a daily telephone support service to the more vulnerable members of the community. | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | West Bann Development | £6,000 |
| 8 | Causeway VIP Scheme To supply and fit home security equipment in households identified by the Crime Prevention Officer in the Coleraine Council areas. | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | PSNI Crime Prevent Officer Coleraine Borough Council Environmental Services Victim Support NI | £4,000 |
| 9 | Intergenerational Project – ‘Down the Decades’ This project brought together a range of young & old citizens from within the Coleraine Borough with the aim of breaking down age barriers, perceptions of age groups and in assisting to reduce the fear of crime. | Aug 14 To Dec 14 | PCSP Board Members Coleraine Free Presbyterian Church Coleraine Youth Group | £1,750 |
| 10 | Intergenerational Project – Riding for the Disabled (RDA) RDA project aimed to improve relationships between old and young people across the cluster area. They worked in partnership to provide a service to disabled clients and the local community. Breaking down barriers between age groups and perceptions. It assisted in reducing the fear of crime and enhanced greater community safety | Jan 14 to Mar 14 | Good Morning Causeway Age Concern Coleraine Rural & Urban Network PSNI PBNI | £4,000 |
| 11 | Vulnerable Adult & Older Persons Consultation Exercise In preparation of and to assist in the delivery of a new Causeway Coast and Glens (CC&G) PCSP Action-plan, Coleraine PCSP wish to appoint a service provider with appropriate expertise to undertake a consultation process with our vulnerable adult and older person population in terms of policing and community safety (including issues relating to the fear of crime). The exercise will include a requirement to provide a suggested range of projects and/or interventions which the new CC&G PCSP may wish to support. The findings will also provide evidence-based research to inform the local police Commander on policing and community safety issues relevant to the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council area in relation to our vulnerable adults and older persons. | Feb 15 to Mar 15 | PCSP | £3,500 |
LIMAVADY PCSP
| Project Title | Date | Partners | Costs | |
| 1 | Safe Home Provision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event. | Apr 13 to Mar 14 | PSNI Be Safe Be Well. | £6,000 |
| 2 | PCSP Themed Public Meeting Limavady PCSP Policing Committee held a public themed meeting for elderly and vulnerable on Monday 16th September 2013 in Foreglen Community Centre. This meeting was attended by approximately 124 elderly and vulnerable and included engagement, consultation and advice | Sep 2013 | PSNI Be Safe Be Well. | £0 |
| 3 | Safe Home Provision of home security products and advice to elderly and vulnerable people across the Limavady Borough Council area by way of home visits and an annual Safe and Sound Event. | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | PSNI Be Safe Be Well. | £10,000 |
| 4 | Elder Abuse Initiative focusing on elder abuse was developed and delivered by Limavady PCSP to raise awareness of the issue via the provision of information and advice, specifically focusing on education, harm reduction and signposting to local services | Apr 14 to Mar 15 | Be Safe Be Well | £3,000 |
Supporting People is my Department’s programme for housing related support which aims to help vulnerable people live as independently as possible in the community. Programme information is, therefore, focused on the number of vulnerable people benefitting.
There have been a total of 38 Supporting People schemes active in East Londonderry for the duration of the period from April 2012 to present.
35 of these schemes have offered accommodation-based support and 3 schemes have offered floating support (to clients in their own homes).
The total capacity of these schemes, which is the total number of people who can be helped at one time, has grown over the period and is currently 772 people. This is summarised in the table below:
| Capacity at April 2012 | Capacity at February 2015 | |
| Accommodation-based Service | 667 | 670 |
| Floating Support | 57 | 102 |
| Total | 724 | 772 |
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041685%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222276","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222276"}},{"id":"222275","reference":"AQW 41684/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-03","answerBy":"2015-02-18","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 41363/11-15, whether a mechanism exists to ensure that Education and Library Boards and schools provide appropriate support during the transition period for young people with Special Education Needs who do not have a statement.","answerText":"Under Article 4(2) of the Education (NI) Order 1996, Education and Library Boards and Boards of Governors of grant-aided schools are required to have regard to the provisions of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (SEN).\n\nParagraph 6.51 of the Code recognises that, in some instances, a pupil approaching the age of 16 may have SEN which do not call for a statement, but which are nevertheless likely to require some support during the transition process. The Code makes clear that Boards and schools should seek to provide such support. This may include the provision of school/FE college link courses or work placements. Schools may also wish to prepare their own transition plans for non-statemented students with SEN.\n\nIn addition, the Department for Employment and Learning's Careers Service is available in post-primary schools for all young people with SEN, regardless of whether or not they have a statement.\n\nI am satisfied that the Code, which is underpinned by legislation, together with the intervention of the Careers Service, provide the mechanism for appropriate support during the transition period for those young people with Special Education Needs who do not have a statement.","answerHtml":"Under Article 4(2) of the Education (NI) Order 1996, Education and Library Boards and Boards of Governors of grant-aided schools are required to have regard to the provisions of the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs (SEN).
Paragraph 6.51 of the Code recognises that, in some instances, a pupil approaching the age of 16 may have SEN which do not call for a statement, but which are nevertheless likely to require some support during the transition process. The Code makes clear that Boards and schools should seek to provide such support. This may include the provision of school/FE college link courses or work placements. Schools may also wish to prepare their own transition plans for non-statemented students with SEN.
In addition, the Department for Employment and Learning's Careers Service is available in post-primary schools for all young people with SEN, regardless of whether or not they have a statement.
I am satisfied that the Code, which is underpinned by legislation, together with the intervention of the Careers Service, provide the mechanism for appropriate support during the transition period for those young people with Special Education Needs who do not have a statement.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041684%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222275"}},{"id":"222274","reference":"AQW 41683/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-03","answerBy":"2015-02-18","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the Supporting People Programme; and whether a new strategy will be developed in the future.","answerText":"Supporting People is my Department’s programme for housing related support which aims to help vulnerable people live as independently as possible in the community.\n\nThe Supporting People Programme was introduced in April 2003 and has been central to the development and provision of quality accommodation and support services that have improved the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of our society, tackling social exclusion by preventing crisis and more costly service interventions.\n\nSupporting People currently manages a budget of £71.58m and funds 100 providers to deliver housing related support through around 800 services to over 23,000 people across Northern Ireland.\n\nThe original strategy \"Supporting People, Changing Lives\" covered the period 2005-2010. Its aim was 'to commission housing support services aimed at improving the quality of life and independence of vulnerable people'. Since then significant progress has been made in raising quality standards in existing services and commissioning new housing support services in line with strategic priorities to meet identified needs.\n\nThe current \"Housing Related Support Strategy (2012-2015)\" sets out to ensure that \"there are sufficient and suitable housing related support services for vulnerable people so that they can live as independently as possible in their own communities\". The objectives of the strategy are that:\n\nServices are affordable and of good quality\n\nServices are targeted at the areas of most need\n\nServices provide value for money\n\nServices are able to respond to individual needs and preferences\n\nServices are accessible to those who need them\n\nServices promote independence and prevent loss of independence\n\nServices are planned and delivered in partnership\n\nSome of the achievements over the duration of the current strategy have included:\n\nThe extension of floating support services across a range of client groups to support homelessness prevention.\n\nFunding of criminal justice workers for domestic violence clients.\n\nThe extension of supported accommodation options for offenders in partnership with the Probation Board of Northern Ireland (PBNI).\n\nExtension of accommodation and support options for young homeless and care leavers through joint commissioning structures.\n\nThe delivery of a range of housing and support services in partnership with health and social care to enable the resettlement of long stay patients with learning disabilities and mental health issues from hospital to housing options in the community.\n\nThe Supporting People Programme is currently subject to a Department for Social Development (DSD) led review of the Supporting People Policy and Legislative framework. The review will:\n\nprovide an overview of existing provision and current expenditure broken down by category of service, and an assessment of the extent of which needs are being adequately met;\n\nevaluate the Supporting People Policy and Programme and the extent to which it has met its core aims in an economic, efficient and effective way since its launch in 2003;\n\nconsider whether an adequate strategic, legislative and administrative framework is in place for the efficient and effective delivery of the Supporting People Policy and Programme in future; and\n\nwhere appropriate, make recommendations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the service.\n\nThe review is expected to complete during 2015 and a future Strategy, informed by the findings from the review, will then be developed.","answerHtml":"Supporting People is my Department’s programme for housing related support which aims to help vulnerable people live as independently as possible in the community.
The Supporting People Programme was introduced in April 2003 and has been central to the development and provision of quality accommodation and support services that have improved the lives of some of the most vulnerable members of our society, tackling social exclusion by preventing crisis and more costly service interventions.
Supporting People currently manages a budget of £71.58m and funds 100 providers to deliver housing related support through around 800 services to over 23,000 people across Northern Ireland.
The original strategy "Supporting People, Changing Lives" covered the period 2005-2010. Its aim was 'to commission housing support services aimed at improving the quality of life and independence of vulnerable people'. Since then significant progress has been made in raising quality standards in existing services and commissioning new housing support services in line with strategic priorities to meet identified needs.
The current "Housing Related Support Strategy (2012-2015)" sets out to ensure that "there are sufficient and suitable housing related support services for vulnerable people so that they can live as independently as possible in their own communities". The objectives of the strategy are that:
Services are affordable and of good quality
Services are targeted at the areas of most need
Services provide value for money
Services are able to respond to individual needs and preferences
Services are accessible to those who need them
Services promote independence and prevent loss of independence
Services are planned and delivered in partnership
Some of the achievements over the duration of the current strategy have included:
The extension of floating support services across a range of client groups to support homelessness prevention.
Funding of criminal justice workers for domestic violence clients.
The extension of supported accommodation options for offenders in partnership with the Probation Board of Northern Ireland (PBNI).
Extension of accommodation and support options for young homeless and care leavers through joint commissioning structures.
The delivery of a range of housing and support services in partnership with health and social care to enable the resettlement of long stay patients with learning disabilities and mental health issues from hospital to housing options in the community.
The Supporting People Programme is currently subject to a Department for Social Development (DSD) led review of the Supporting People Policy and Legislative framework. The review will:
provide an overview of existing provision and current expenditure broken down by category of service, and an assessment of the extent of which needs are being adequately met;
evaluate the Supporting People Policy and Programme and the extent to which it has met its core aims in an economic, efficient and effective way since its launch in 2003;
consider whether an adequate strategic, legislative and administrative framework is in place for the efficient and effective delivery of the Supporting People Policy and Programme in future; and
where appropriate, make recommendations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the service.
The review is expected to complete during 2015 and a future Strategy, informed by the findings from the review, will then be developed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041683%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222274","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222274"}},{"id":"222115","reference":"AQW 41628/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-02","answerBy":"2015-02-17","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the percentage of pupils achieving five or more GCSEs at grades A-C in each of the last three years, broken down by (i) gender; and (ii) pupils entitled to free school meals.","answerText":"The information contained in the following table refers to the achievement of pupils leaving mainstream grant aided post-primary schools during the academic years 2010/11 to 2012/13.\n\nData covering the academic year 2012/13 are the most recent available. Equivalent figures for 2013/14 school leavers are scheduled for release in May 2015.\n\nPercentage of school leavers achieving five or more GCSEs at grades A*-C (including equivalents) by gender and pupils entitled to free school meals, 2010/11 to 2012/13\n\nBoy\tGirl\tEntitled to free school meals\n2010/11\t67.7\t78.9\t48.8\n2011/12\t71.0\t82.1\t53.4\n2012/13\t74.5\t82.8\t58.5\n\nSource: School Leavers Survey","answerHtml":"The information contained in the following table refers to the achievement of pupils leaving mainstream grant aided post-primary schools during the academic years 2010/11 to 2012/13.
Data covering the academic year 2012/13 are the most recent available. Equivalent figures for 2013/14 school leavers are scheduled for release in May 2015.
Percentage of school leavers achieving five or more GCSEs at grades A*-C (including equivalents) by gender and pupils entitled to free school meals, 2010/11 to 2012/13
| Boy | Girl | Entitled to free school meals | |
| 2010/11 | 67.7 | 78.9 | 48.8 |
| 2011/12 | 71.0 | 82.1 | 53.4 |
| 2012/13 | 74.5 | 82.8 | 58.5 |
Source: School Leavers Survey
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041628%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222115"}},{"id":"222114","reference":"AQW 41627/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-02","answerBy":"2015-02-17","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the impact that the Mental Capacity Bill may have on the provision of Power of Attorney in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The draft Mental Capacity Bill, which is being taken forward jointly by my Department and the Department of Justice, provides for a new system of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) to replace the existing Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) system. This was a key recommendation of the Bamford Review and follows similar reforms in England and Wales.\n\nThe new scheme will provide stronger protections for people who want to plan ahead for a time when they may lose their mental capacity. Importantly, it will allow a person to give someone else the authority to make decisions on his/her behalf not just in relation to financial matters, but also health and welfare matters. Any EPA put in place prior to the Bill coming into operation will, however, be respected. Further work on the implementation of the new system will be undertaken in consultation with key stakeholders to help ensure that the transition to the LPA scheme here goes as smoothly as possible.","answerHtml":"The draft Mental Capacity Bill, which is being taken forward jointly by my Department and the Department of Justice, provides for a new system of Lasting Powers of Attorney (LPA) to replace the existing Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) system. This was a key recommendation of the Bamford Review and follows similar reforms in England and Wales.
The new scheme will provide stronger protections for people who want to plan ahead for a time when they may lose their mental capacity. Importantly, it will allow a person to give someone else the authority to make decisions on his/her behalf not just in relation to financial matters, but also health and welfare matters. Any EPA put in place prior to the Bill coming into operation will, however, be respected. Further work on the implementation of the new system will be undertaken in consultation with key stakeholders to help ensure that the transition to the LPA scheme here goes as smoothly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041627%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222114"}},{"id":"222111","reference":"AQW 41624/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-02","answerBy":"2015-02-17","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for an update on the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020.","answerText":"The draft Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 was formally submitted to the European Commission on 14th October 2014. We are currently waiting for the Commission’s response on the content of the draft Programme.\n\nBecause of a backlog in approving Programmes across Europe, the European Commission have advised that the earliest possible date for approval of our Programme is likely to be June 2015 and not April as originally planned.\n\nWhile any delay in the approval process of the RDP is disappointing, it will not affect the continuing work by my officials in obtaining the necessary business case approvals and in developing the schemes for opening. We will continue to work to open the schemes as early as possible once all the necessary approvals are in place.","answerHtml":"The draft Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 was formally submitted to the European Commission on 14th October 2014. We are currently waiting for the Commission’s response on the content of the draft Programme.
Because of a backlog in approving Programmes across Europe, the European Commission have advised that the earliest possible date for approval of our Programme is likely to be June 2015 and not April as originally planned.
While any delay in the approval process of the RDP is disappointing, it will not affect the continuing work by my officials in obtaining the necessary business case approvals and in developing the schemes for opening. We will continue to work to open the schemes as early as possible once all the necessary approvals are in place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041624%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222111"}},{"id":"222110","reference":"AQW 41623/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-02","answerBy":"2015-02-17","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the European Regional Development Fund Operational Programme.","answerText":"My Department has considered the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Regional Development Working Paper 2013/20 ‘The Case of Ireland – Northern Ireland – Regions and Innovation: Collaborating Across Borders'.\n\nThe recommendations in this report have been reviewed and are being taken forward by InterTradeIreland, a North South body established to foster and support cross border collaboration on innovation, trade and business development activities.\n\nMy Department, in conjunction with the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in the Republic of Ireland will seek to ensure that InterTradeIreland takes account of the findings and recommendations in the Report in its work going forward.","answerHtml":"My Department has considered the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Regional Development Working Paper 2013/20 ‘The Case of Ireland – Northern Ireland – Regions and Innovation: Collaborating Across Borders'.
The recommendations in this report have been reviewed and are being taken forward by InterTradeIreland, a North South body established to foster and support cross border collaboration on innovation, trade and business development activities.
My Department, in conjunction with the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation in the Republic of Ireland will seek to ensure that InterTradeIreland takes account of the findings and recommendations in the Report in its work going forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041623%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222110"}},{"id":"222109","reference":"AQW 41622/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-02-02","answerBy":"2015-02-17","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice when Lasting Power of Attorney will be introduced in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"My Department does not have substantive policy responsibility for Lasting Powers of Attorney.\n\nHowever, I can confirm that the draft Mental Capacity Bill contains provisions to introduce Lasting Powers of Attorney in Northern Ireland. The Bill is being prepared jointly by my Department and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. It is currently intended to submit a Bill to the Executive for approval in March 2015, to enable introduction to and passage through the Assembly by March 2016.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have substantive policy responsibility for Lasting Powers of Attorney.
However, I can confirm that the draft Mental Capacity Bill contains provisions to introduce Lasting Powers of Attorney in Northern Ireland. The Bill is being prepared jointly by my Department and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. It is currently intended to submit a Bill to the Executive for approval in March 2015, to enable introduction to and passage through the Assembly by March 2016.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041622%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=222109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=222109"}},{"id":"221926","reference":"AQW 41551/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-30","answerBy":"2015-02-16","answered":"2015-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Social Protection Fund as outlined in the Programme for Government 2011-15.","answerText":"The Social Protection Fund was designed to help individuals and families facing hardship due to the ongoing economic downturn.\n\nDuring 2012 some £22 million was distributed by the Department for Social Development and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety as Winter Fuel Payments for benefit recipients and cancer patients. However, no funding was explicitly allocated to the Social Protection Fund over the remaining three years of the budget period.\n\nIn 2013 we decided to subsume the Social Protection Fund into one consolidated and integrated ‘Delivering Social Change Fund’ which affords us the opportunity to respond quickly, and in a flexible manner, to urgent social needs as they arise and address the specific needs of some of our most vulnerable individuals and families.","answerHtml":"The Social Protection Fund was designed to help individuals and families facing hardship due to the ongoing economic downturn.
During 2012 some £22 million was distributed by the Department for Social Development and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety as Winter Fuel Payments for benefit recipients and cancer patients. However, no funding was explicitly allocated to the Social Protection Fund over the remaining three years of the budget period.
In 2013 we decided to subsume the Social Protection Fund into one consolidated and integrated ‘Delivering Social Change Fund’ which affords us the opportunity to respond quickly, and in a flexible manner, to urgent social needs as they arise and address the specific needs of some of our most vulnerable individuals and families.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041551%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221926","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221926"}},{"id":"221925","reference":"AQW 41550/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-30","answerBy":"2015-02-16","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) what training exists to encourage teachers to identify child victims of domestic abuse; and (ii) the correct link-up process with other relevant bodies if a child is identified, or suspected.","answerText":"In schools, domestic abuse comes within the overall child protection agenda.\n\nAll schools have a named Designated Teacher (DT) for Child Protection and a named Deputy Designated Teacher. The DT acts as a focal point for child protection within the school through providing advice and support to staff and by liaising with agencies outside the school as appropriate.\n\nAll grant-aided schools are required by law to have a child protection policy and to implement it. When preparing its policy a school must take account of advice from the Department, relevant Education and Library Board (ELB) and, in the case of Catholic maintained schools, the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS).\n\nAll advice issued from the Department is consistent with the ‘Co-Operating to Safeguard Children’ document and the Area Child Protection Committee Regional Policies and Procedures.\n\nTraining on child protection matters is organised by the ELBs and is available to members of Boards of Governors, school principals, DTs and their deputies.\n\nThere are clear procedures under the UNOCINI (Understanding the Needs of Children in the North of Ireland) assessment framework to facilitate referral from schools to social services and onward to other agencies such as PSNI, as appropriate.","answerHtml":"In schools, domestic abuse comes within the overall child protection agenda.
All schools have a named Designated Teacher (DT) for Child Protection and a named Deputy Designated Teacher. The DT acts as a focal point for child protection within the school through providing advice and support to staff and by liaising with agencies outside the school as appropriate.
All grant-aided schools are required by law to have a child protection policy and to implement it. When preparing its policy a school must take account of advice from the Department, relevant Education and Library Board (ELB) and, in the case of Catholic maintained schools, the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools (CCMS).
All advice issued from the Department is consistent with the ‘Co-Operating to Safeguard Children’ document and the Area Child Protection Committee Regional Policies and Procedures.
Training on child protection matters is organised by the ELBs and is available to members of Boards of Governors, school principals, DTs and their deputies.
There are clear procedures under the UNOCINI (Understanding the Needs of Children in the North of Ireland) assessment framework to facilitate referral from schools to social services and onward to other agencies such as PSNI, as appropriate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041550%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221925","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221925"}},{"id":"221924","reference":"AQW 41549/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-30","answerBy":"2015-02-16","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to provide further details on the North West Executive sub-group; and to define the geographical remit of the North West.","answerText":"The Executive Sub-Group is on Regional Opportunities not just the North West. It will consider the economic needs of regions and the potential for further investment to overcome obstacles to growth and prosperity. We will be co-chairs of the sub-group which will also include the Minister for Employment and Learning, the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, the Minister of the Environment, and the Minister for Regional Development. While focusing initially on the North West, it will in due course examine other regions with identified economic needs.","answerHtml":"The Executive Sub-Group is on Regional Opportunities not just the North West. It will consider the economic needs of regions and the potential for further investment to overcome obstacles to growth and prosperity. We will be co-chairs of the sub-group which will also include the Minister for Employment and Learning, the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, the Minister of the Environment, and the Minister for Regional Development. While focusing initially on the North West, it will in due course examine other regions with identified economic needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041549%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221924"}},{"id":"221922","reference":"AQW 41548/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-30","answerBy":"2015-02-16","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he has considered working with the Treasury to introduce National Savings and Investments pensioner bonds to Northern Ireland, as introduced by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in 2014, and recently made available in Great Britain.","answerText":"The 65+ Guaranteed Growth Bonds (Pensioner Bonds) that were launched recently are already available to people living in Northern Ireland as long as they are aged 65+ and have a UK bank account.","answerHtml":"The 65+ Guaranteed Growth Bonds (Pensioner Bonds) that were launched recently are already available to people living in Northern Ireland as long as they are aged 65+ and have a UK bank account.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041548%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221922","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221922"}},{"id":"221920","reference":"AQW 41547/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-30","answerBy":"2015-02-16","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the Public Health Agency's 10,000 Voices Project; and whether it will be continued in 2015/16.","answerText":"The Regional Outcomes Report of the 10,000 Voices project, published by the Public Health Agency in October 2014 clearly highlights that it provides a valuable forum for service users to inform us of how we are delivering and how we should deliver health and social care services.\n\nInformation from patient’s stories has already been used to inform a range of local and regional service improvements. By using this information to shape how we deliver services we can be assured that improvements will be based on information which really matters to people.\n\nThe Public Health Agency have advised that the 10,000 Voices project will be continued in 2015/16 subject to funding. The work plan for 2015/16 is currently being negotiated and will be available at the end of March 2015.","answerHtml":"The Regional Outcomes Report of the 10,000 Voices project, published by the Public Health Agency in October 2014 clearly highlights that it provides a valuable forum for service users to inform us of how we are delivering and how we should deliver health and social care services.
Information from patient’s stories has already been used to inform a range of local and regional service improvements. By using this information to shape how we deliver services we can be assured that improvements will be based on information which really matters to people.
The Public Health Agency have advised that the 10,000 Voices project will be continued in 2015/16 subject to funding. The work plan for 2015/16 is currently being negotiated and will be available at the end of March 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041547%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221920","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221920"}},{"id":"221728","reference":"AQW 41489/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-29","answerBy":"2015-02-13","answered":"2015-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the current level of unoccupied social housing in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that at 31 December 2014 they had 30 vacant properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary constituency, which includes properties awaiting imminent relet, difficult to let or undergoing major repairs etc. Housing Associations advise they currently have 37 vacant properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary constituency, which includes properties awaiting imminent relet, undergoing major repairs or pending appraisal/ consideration of disposal or redevelopment.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that at 31 December 2014 they had 30 vacant properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary constituency, which includes properties awaiting imminent relet, difficult to let or undergoing major repairs etc. Housing Associations advise they currently have 37 vacant properties in the East Londonderry Parliamentary constituency, which includes properties awaiting imminent relet, undergoing major repairs or pending appraisal/ consideration of disposal or redevelopment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041489%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221728","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221728"}},{"id":"221727","reference":"AQW 41488/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-29","answerBy":"2015-02-13","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how much funding has been allocated through the Social Investment Fund to deprived areas within the Northern Zone since 2011.","answerText":"The Social Investment Fund selection criteria meant that projects must address deprivation or dereliction. Six projects, fulfilling these criteria are being taken forward in the Northern Zone. They are as follows:\n\nColeraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN) and Fuel Poverty had funding of £0.46 million and £1.83 million respectively, committed in 2014. CRUN has contractors on site.\n\nA letter of offer has issued to Community Capacity Hubs for £1.13 million and a letter of offer will issue shortly for Employment through Education for £3.54 million.\n\nCapacity for Health and Access to Employment and Health are estimated at £1.7 million and £0.8 million respectively. These figures are approximate as both projects are currently going through the internal approvals process.","answerHtml":"The Social Investment Fund selection criteria meant that projects must address deprivation or dereliction. Six projects, fulfilling these criteria are being taken forward in the Northern Zone. They are as follows:
Coleraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN) and Fuel Poverty had funding of £0.46 million and £1.83 million respectively, committed in 2014. CRUN has contractors on site.
A letter of offer has issued to Community Capacity Hubs for £1.13 million and a letter of offer will issue shortly for Employment through Education for £3.54 million.
Capacity for Health and Access to Employment and Health are estimated at £1.7 million and £0.8 million respectively. These figures are approximate as both projects are currently going through the internal approvals process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041488%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221727","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221727"}},{"id":"221726","reference":"AQW 41487/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-29","answerBy":"2015-02-13","answered":"2015-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the impact that the proposed courthouses closures will have on the Programme for Government 2011-15 commitment to improve access to justice.","answerText":"The proposals for the court estate have been drawn up to provide an accessible and flexible model for justice administration in the future.\n\nI appreciate that local courthouses are important to some people, but access to justice is not just about the number and proximity of courthouses but about reforms and initiatives to ensure that those that need to use the justice system are supported and have access to appropriate services.\n\nThe intention of the proposals is not to reduce the current level of activity within the courts but to realign where that business is undertaken to make best use of the larger, more modern, court buildings which have the capacity and facilities to deal with the broad range of court business.\n\nThe proposals will preserve access to justice for the people of Northern Ireland within a smaller, more focused, court estate.","answerHtml":"The proposals for the court estate have been drawn up to provide an accessible and flexible model for justice administration in the future.
I appreciate that local courthouses are important to some people, but access to justice is not just about the number and proximity of courthouses but about reforms and initiatives to ensure that those that need to use the justice system are supported and have access to appropriate services.
The intention of the proposals is not to reduce the current level of activity within the courts but to realign where that business is undertaken to make best use of the larger, more modern, court buildings which have the capacity and facilities to deal with the broad range of court business.
The proposals will preserve access to justice for the people of Northern Ireland within a smaller, more focused, court estate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041487%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221726","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221726"}},{"id":"221724","reference":"AQW 41486/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-29","answerBy":"2015-02-13","answered":"2015-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people who have a long-term, or chronic, condition who are currently enrolled in a specialist chronic condition management programme.","answerText":"The information requested is not available and could only be provided at disproportionate costs. Information is however available on the number of participants who availed of a patient education / self management programme in 2012/13.\n\nIn 2012/13, 11,531 participants availed of a patient education / self management programme.\n\nThis information can be found published online at the following web address: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/patient_education_self_management_-_regional_summary_2012-13.pdf","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available and could only be provided at disproportionate costs. Information is however available on the number of participants who availed of a patient education / self management programme in 2012/13.
In 2012/13, 11,531 participants availed of a patient education / self management programme.
This information can be found published online at the following web address: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/patient_education_self_management_-_regional_summary_2012-13.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041486%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221724","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221724"}},{"id":"221723","reference":"AQW 41485/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-29","answerBy":"2015-02-13","answered":"2015-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on his Department's Empty Homes Strategy in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Within the constituency of East Londonderry, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Empty Homes Unit has had 38 empty properties reported to it from April 2014 to January 2015. 25 of these are located in the Coleraine council area and 13 in the wider Limavady council area. 19 of the reported properties are in areas where there is no housing need.\n\nThe Department will continue to work with the Housing Executive across a number of initiatives to assist in bringing empty homes back into use.","answerHtml":"Within the constituency of East Londonderry, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s Empty Homes Unit has had 38 empty properties reported to it from April 2014 to January 2015. 25 of these are located in the Coleraine council area and 13 in the wider Limavady council area. 19 of the reported properties are in areas where there is no housing need.
The Department will continue to work with the Housing Executive across a number of initiatives to assist in bringing empty homes back into use.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041485%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221723","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221723"}},{"id":"221444","reference":"AQW 41430/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-28","answerBy":"2015-02-12","answered":"2015-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how Health and Social Care Trusts maintain updated registers of children who have a disability.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not maintain registers of children who have a disability. However, they have a range of information systems which record children with a disability who are known to particular services. Their key information system is the Child Health Information System which has the capacity to record a number of relevant areas of information in respect of children with a disability.\n\nIn addition, the Children’s Services Improvement Board (CSIB) has established a work stream to review the current information systems used within HSC Trusts with a view to ensuring regional consistency and the validation of information. CSIB membership includes all HSC Trusts, the Health and Social Care Board and DHSSPS.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts do not maintain registers of children who have a disability. However, they have a range of information systems which record children with a disability who are known to particular services. Their key information system is the Child Health Information System which has the capacity to record a number of relevant areas of information in respect of children with a disability.
In addition, the Children’s Services Improvement Board (CSIB) has established a work stream to review the current information systems used within HSC Trusts with a view to ensuring regional consistency and the validation of information. CSIB membership includes all HSC Trusts, the Health and Social Care Board and DHSSPS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041430%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221444"}},{"id":"221443","reference":"AQW 41429/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-28","answerBy":"2015-02-12","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the role of (i) voluntary sector organisations; and (ii) Health and Social Care Trusts, in providing respite services to parents.","answerText":"The Community/Voluntary sector (CVS) has a key role in supporting a wide range of individuals and their families. The HSC Board and Trusts commission a wide range of services from the CVS including those services related to short breaks/respite. The range of services available provides a more flexible response for families and is seen as going beyond the traditional model of residential respite.\n\nShort Breaks has been subject to recent review undertaken by the RQIA and the HSC Board is currently taking forward a response to the recommendations contained within this review (http://www.rqia.org.uk/cms_resources/Respite_Rep_FINALREPORT_ISBN_.pdf). In addition, the NI Assembly Research and Information Service has completed a briefing paper in relation to Short Breaks for Families of Children with Disability (NIAR 825-13) which provides a comprehensive overview of practice in NI and across the rest of the UK.\n\nWith an ageing population, there is a need for the consideration of the needs of older parents caring for an adult with a disability. In such cases the individual needs of the carer and person cared for require to be assessed in terms of ensuring a person centred response. The HSC Board and Trusts are currently seeking to increase the number of carers’ assessments offered and undertaken across all programmes of care. The HSC Board and Trusts have also developed a regional project to further develop initiatives such as Direct Payments, personalised budgets and enhancement of the Self Directed Support model which should offer broader choice and control for carers, including respite/short breaks.\n\nThis work, as noted in Transforming Your Care, is currently on-going and a Regional and Trust project structure has been developed. The aim of this work is to create a broader model of service provision and greater emphasis on choice for carers. Such a model is already well established in Great Britain.","answerHtml":"The Community/Voluntary sector (CVS) has a key role in supporting a wide range of individuals and their families. The HSC Board and Trusts commission a wide range of services from the CVS including those services related to short breaks/respite. The range of services available provides a more flexible response for families and is seen as going beyond the traditional model of residential respite.
Short Breaks has been subject to recent review undertaken by the RQIA and the HSC Board is currently taking forward a response to the recommendations contained within this review (http://www.rqia.org.uk/cms_resources/Respite_Rep_FINALREPORT_ISBN_.pdf). In addition, the NI Assembly Research and Information Service has completed a briefing paper in relation to Short Breaks for Families of Children with Disability (NIAR 825-13) which provides a comprehensive overview of practice in NI and across the rest of the UK.
With an ageing population, there is a need for the consideration of the needs of older parents caring for an adult with a disability. In such cases the individual needs of the carer and person cared for require to be assessed in terms of ensuring a person centred response. The HSC Board and Trusts are currently seeking to increase the number of carers’ assessments offered and undertaken across all programmes of care. The HSC Board and Trusts have also developed a regional project to further develop initiatives such as Direct Payments, personalised budgets and enhancement of the Self Directed Support model which should offer broader choice and control for carers, including respite/short breaks.
This work, as noted in Transforming Your Care, is currently on-going and a Regional and Trust project structure has been developed. The aim of this work is to create a broader model of service provision and greater emphasis on choice for carers. Such a model is already well established in Great Britain.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041429%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221443"}},{"id":"221441","reference":"AQW 41428/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-28","answerBy":"2015-02-12","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the provision of classroom assistants in mainstream post-primary schools for pupils who have a disability that were supported by a classroom assistant at primary level.","answerText":"As outlined in the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs, Education and Library Boards (ELBs) are required to review all statements of special educational needs (SEN) at least annually and these reviews should be seen as part of a process of continuous assessment. A child’s transfer from primary to post-primary education is carefully considered during the last year in the child’s current school and the annual review of the child’s SEN, which if necessary should be brought forward to allow sufficient time, will review the provision being made including, if appropriate, provision of a classroom assistant.\n\nThe review process enables an ELB to consider the individual needs of a child and how they may change in a post-primary setting. If it is concluded that a child continues to need the support of a classroom assistant the statement will be subsequently amended and the provision put in place in the new school setting.","answerHtml":"As outlined in the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of Special Educational Needs, Education and Library Boards (ELBs) are required to review all statements of special educational needs (SEN) at least annually and these reviews should be seen as part of a process of continuous assessment. A child’s transfer from primary to post-primary education is carefully considered during the last year in the child’s current school and the annual review of the child’s SEN, which if necessary should be brought forward to allow sufficient time, will review the provision being made including, if appropriate, provision of a classroom assistant.
The review process enables an ELB to consider the individual needs of a child and how they may change in a post-primary setting. If it is concluded that a child continues to need the support of a classroom assistant the statement will be subsequently amended and the provision put in place in the new school setting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041428%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221441"}},{"id":"221434","reference":"AQW 41427/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-28","answerBy":"2015-02-12","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 40719/11-15, to detail additional eligibility criteria, for properties which were built before 2000 who wish to install mains water, so they can benefit from the supplemented allowance of £12,000.","answerText":"The supplementary allowance of £12,000 per property is available to all properties constructed before 1 January 2000 which have not previously been served by a public mains water supply. Properties classed as ‘not served’ do not have a water main in the nearest public road as opposed to properties that are not connected to a nearby water main by a private supply pipe. Householders are responsible for installing and paying for the private supply pipe from the boundary of their property to the point of supply.","answerHtml":"The supplementary allowance of £12,000 per property is available to all properties constructed before 1 January 2000 which have not previously been served by a public mains water supply. Properties classed as ‘not served’ do not have a water main in the nearest public road as opposed to properties that are not connected to a nearby water main by a private supply pipe. Householders are responsible for installing and paying for the private supply pipe from the boundary of their property to the point of supply.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041427%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221434","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221434"}},{"id":"221433","reference":"AQW 41426/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-28","answerBy":"2015-02-12","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 40783/11-15, for his assessment of the capacity of further education colleges to independently provide this type of intervention; and what impact falling enrolment figures will have on the future of this programme.","answerText":"The Further Education sector has continued to develop its internal capacity, awareness and expertise in targeting, engaging, and retaining those who are most hard to reach in mainstream further education provision, both in college campuses and in outreach centres. This capacity building has been further helped by partnerships with other organisations and agencies, including its collaboration with third party providers through their delivery of the Learner Access and Engagement programme (LAE).\n\nThis programe is largely focussed on delivering Essential Skills provision, with third party providers having responsibility for the engagement and retention of participants on the programme. However, there is evidence to support that the sector is engaging as many, if not more, students from the lower deprivation quintiles and, in addition, the sector’s retention rates on mainstream Essential Skills programmes have been consistently higher than those being achieved by third party providers on LAE.\n\nTherefore, considering the issues above and the continued decrease in enrolment numbers on the LAE programme, the Department, in considering how best to ensure delivery of its key objectives and priorities, within current budgetary cuts, has taken the decision to discontinue the Programme with effect from 31 March 2015.\n\nOfficials are working with colleges and providers to ensure all those currently enrolled can complete their course of study and gain their qualifications.","answerHtml":"The Further Education sector has continued to develop its internal capacity, awareness and expertise in targeting, engaging, and retaining those who are most hard to reach in mainstream further education provision, both in college campuses and in outreach centres. This capacity building has been further helped by partnerships with other organisations and agencies, including its collaboration with third party providers through their delivery of the Learner Access and Engagement programme (LAE).
This programe is largely focussed on delivering Essential Skills provision, with third party providers having responsibility for the engagement and retention of participants on the programme. However, there is evidence to support that the sector is engaging as many, if not more, students from the lower deprivation quintiles and, in addition, the sector’s retention rates on mainstream Essential Skills programmes have been consistently higher than those being achieved by third party providers on LAE.
Therefore, considering the issues above and the continued decrease in enrolment numbers on the LAE programme, the Department, in considering how best to ensure delivery of its key objectives and priorities, within current budgetary cuts, has taken the decision to discontinue the Programme with effect from 31 March 2015.
Officials are working with colleges and providers to ensure all those currently enrolled can complete their course of study and gain their qualifications.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041426%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221433","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221433"}},{"id":"221284","reference":"AQW 41367/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-27","answerBy":"2015-02-11","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what support exists in Regional Colleges, beyond work preparation programmes, to facilitate young people with disabilities’ entry to employment.","answerText":"Further Education (FE) provision is delivered to all students, including young people with learning difficulties and/or a disability, with the aim of providing them with the necessary skills to help prepare them for future employment. Provision is focussed on helping them complete their course of study and gain the qualifications, confidence and ability to progress to further study or employment.\n\nAdditional support is provided, beyond FE provision and work preparation programmes, to help colleges assist young people with learning difficulties and/or a disability in their preparation for success in their course of study and to progress.\n\nFE colleges offer a wide range of support to these young people through their student services; learning support units; and careers guidance. In addition my Department provides funding to colleges to help them meet the cost of providing additional support to students with learning difficulties and /or disabilities to help them overcome barriers to learning and enable successful completion of their courses and progression to further provision or employment. This funding is provided from a number of sources:\n\nAdditional Support Fund (ASF) - £4.5 million per annum to help colleges provide additional technical and personal support to students with learning difficulties and / or disabilities enrolled in FE provision, as well as helping colleges meet the cost of providing smaller class sizes and classroom assistants for those students who, by nature of their learning difficulty or disability are unable to participate in mainstream provision.\n\nTraining for Success (TfS) - funding allocated to engage Disability Support Suppliers such as Disability Action, Sensory Learning Support, Cedar Foundation and Ulster Supported Employment Limited to work in conjunction with training suppliers, including FE colleges, in providing a wide range of support, including work focussed elements, to facilitate participants progression to employment, such as job coaching, advocacy with potential employers and disability awareness training for employers and colleagues of people with a disability.\n\nDisabled Students Allowance (DSA) – to provide support for students with a disability or learning difficulty participating in higher education (HE) provision in either HE institutions or FE colleges. This funding helps meet the extra costs which may be incurred in attending a course of study, as a direct result of a disability, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. This will ultimately improve the students’ chances of success in their course of study and help position them in securing employment.\n\nEmployment and Skills Strategy for People with Disabilities\n\nMy Department is currently developing an overarching ‘Employment and Skills Strategy for People with Disabilities’ in conjunction with key stakeholders from the local disability sector and FE colleges. The purpose of the new strategy is to improve the skills, employability, job prospects and working careers of people with disabilities in Northern Ireland. The aim of the strategy is to improve transition into and out of the various departmental services, including FE colleges and to result in more young people with disabilities achieving their employment goals.\n\nDisability Employment Service pilot projects\n\nIn addition, in 2012 my Department’s Disability Employment Service established a two year pilot project with three regional colleges to improve relationships between respective departmental services, and enhance the transition between the college’s vocational programmes for young people with the labour market. The majority of the students involved have a learning disability, with others having Autistic Spectrum Disorder and other conditions. Since 2012, 132 students have been referred to the project. Forty eight students have secured paid employment with the assistance of departmental provision, including the Youth Employment Scheme, Workable (NI) and Access to Work (NI).","answerHtml":"Further Education (FE) provision is delivered to all students, including young people with learning difficulties and/or a disability, with the aim of providing them with the necessary skills to help prepare them for future employment. Provision is focussed on helping them complete their course of study and gain the qualifications, confidence and ability to progress to further study or employment.
Additional support is provided, beyond FE provision and work preparation programmes, to help colleges assist young people with learning difficulties and/or a disability in their preparation for success in their course of study and to progress.
FE colleges offer a wide range of support to these young people through their student services; learning support units; and careers guidance. In addition my Department provides funding to colleges to help them meet the cost of providing additional support to students with learning difficulties and /or disabilities to help them overcome barriers to learning and enable successful completion of their courses and progression to further provision or employment. This funding is provided from a number of sources:
Additional Support Fund (ASF) - £4.5 million per annum to help colleges provide additional technical and personal support to students with learning difficulties and / or disabilities enrolled in FE provision, as well as helping colleges meet the cost of providing smaller class sizes and classroom assistants for those students who, by nature of their learning difficulty or disability are unable to participate in mainstream provision.
Training for Success (TfS) - funding allocated to engage Disability Support Suppliers such as Disability Action, Sensory Learning Support, Cedar Foundation and Ulster Supported Employment Limited to work in conjunction with training suppliers, including FE colleges, in providing a wide range of support, including work focussed elements, to facilitate participants progression to employment, such as job coaching, advocacy with potential employers and disability awareness training for employers and colleagues of people with a disability.
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA) – to provide support for students with a disability or learning difficulty participating in higher education (HE) provision in either HE institutions or FE colleges. This funding helps meet the extra costs which may be incurred in attending a course of study, as a direct result of a disability, mental health condition or specific learning difficulty. This will ultimately improve the students’ chances of success in their course of study and help position them in securing employment.
Employment and Skills Strategy for People with Disabilities
My Department is currently developing an overarching ‘Employment and Skills Strategy for People with Disabilities’ in conjunction with key stakeholders from the local disability sector and FE colleges. The purpose of the new strategy is to improve the skills, employability, job prospects and working careers of people with disabilities in Northern Ireland. The aim of the strategy is to improve transition into and out of the various departmental services, including FE colleges and to result in more young people with disabilities achieving their employment goals.
Disability Employment Service pilot projects
In addition, in 2012 my Department’s Disability Employment Service established a two year pilot project with three regional colleges to improve relationships between respective departmental services, and enhance the transition between the college’s vocational programmes for young people with the labour market. The majority of the students involved have a learning disability, with others having Autistic Spectrum Disorder and other conditions. Since 2012, 132 students have been referred to the project. Forty eight students have secured paid employment with the assistance of departmental provision, including the Youth Employment Scheme, Workable (NI) and Access to Work (NI).
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041367%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221284","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221284"}},{"id":"221281","reference":"AQW 41364/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-27","answerBy":"2015-02-11","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he will expand the Extended Schools’ Programme to provide funding for eligible schools in 2015/16.","answerText":"I regard the Extended Schools programme as a critical part of my overall strategy for school improvement by responding to the needs of pupils, parents, families and the local community.\n\nThe level of Extended Schools funding will be considered in the context of my overall spending plans for education which I am currently finalising for 2015/16.","answerHtml":"I regard the Extended Schools programme as a critical part of my overall strategy for school improvement by responding to the needs of pupils, parents, families and the local community.
The level of Extended Schools funding will be considered in the context of my overall spending plans for education which I am currently finalising for 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041364%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221281"}},{"id":"221280","reference":"AQW 41363/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-27","answerBy":"2015-02-11","answered":"2015-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what provisions exist, within post-primary secondary level schools, to support young people who have low to moderate disability needs to pursue paid employment opportunities.","answerText":"The Department recognises the importance of supporting young people with learning difficulties through the transition from school to adulthood, including paid employment opportunities. As such, statutory transition arrangements are well embedded in our post-primary schools for all pupils with statements of special educational needs (SEN).\n\nThe Education Transition Co-ordinators in each Education and Library Board (ELB) support the parent and young person through the transition process and work in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service and other key agencies, providing a co-ordinated approach and ensuring that connections for access to post-school education, careers advice, employment and health and social care sector supports are made.\n\nFor young people with SEN who do not have a statement, under the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN, ELBs and schools should seek to provide appropriate help and guidance during the transition period.","answerHtml":"The Department recognises the importance of supporting young people with learning difficulties through the transition from school to adulthood, including paid employment opportunities. As such, statutory transition arrangements are well embedded in our post-primary schools for all pupils with statements of special educational needs (SEN).
The Education Transition Co-ordinators in each Education and Library Board (ELB) support the parent and young person through the transition process and work in conjunction with the Department for Employment and Learning’s Careers Service and other key agencies, providing a co-ordinated approach and ensuring that connections for access to post-school education, careers advice, employment and health and social care sector supports are made.
For young people with SEN who do not have a statement, under the Code of Practice on the Identification and Assessment of SEN, ELBs and schools should seek to provide appropriate help and guidance during the transition period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041363%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221280"}},{"id":"221279","reference":"AQW 41362/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-27","answerBy":"2015-02-11","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the areas in which Sure Start Programmes are currently funded; and whether services will be expanded to the top 25 per cent most disadvantaged wards in 2015.","answerText":"The following table provides details of the Sure Start Programmes that are currently funded in the north of Ireland, displayed by Childcare Partnership and electoral ward areas. Sure Start Services are being expanded to the top 25% most disadvantaged wards (as defined by the Multiple Deprivation Measures 2010 (NIMDM 2010)) on a phased approach as budgets allow, by April 2015.\n\nNORTHERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA\tWARDS\nBallymena Sure Start\tBallykeel, Ballee, Moat, Harryville, Dunclug, Fairgreen, Castle Demesne and Summerfield\nColeraine Sure Start\tBallysally, Central, Churchland, Cross, Glebe, Knocklynn (Windyhall Estate), University (Millburn Estate) and Royal Portrush\nDalriada Rural Sure Start\tArmoy, Bushmills, Ballylough, Mosside, Moyarget, Dalriada, Kinbane, Glentaise, Dunserverick, Knocklayd, Bonamargy, Rathlin and Newhill\nGold Community Sure Start\tGortalowry, Oldtown, Killymoon and Ardboe, Dunamore, Pomeroy and Maghera\nHorizon Sure Start\tNorthlands, Sunnylands, Clipperstown, Love Lane, Antiville, Ballyloran and Craigyhill and Killycrot\nAbbey Sure Start\tAbbey, Cloughfern, Coole, Dunanney, Monkstown, Valley and Whitehouse\nAntrim Sure Start\tBallycraigy, Farrenshane and Steeple\nSOUTHERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA\tWARDS\nBlossom Sure Start\tAnnagh, Ballybay, Ballyoran, Brownstown, Corcrain and Tavanagh\nClogher Valley Sure Start\tAughnacloy, Augher, Ballygawley, Clogher and Fivemiletown\nDungannon Sure Start\tBallysaggart, Benburb part ward, Coalisland South, Coolhill part ward, Drumglass part ward, Killymeal part ward, Moygashel part ward, Mullaghmore part ward, Castlecaulfield part ward, Coalisland South and Coalisland North\nNewry City Sure Start\tBallybot, Daisyhill, Drumalane, Drumgullion, St Marys, St Patricks and Windsor Hill\nSouth Armagh Sure Start\tBessbrook, Camlough, Creggan, Crossmaglen, Derrymore, Newtownhamilton, and Silver Bridge\nSplash Sure Start\tChurch, Court, Drumgask, Drumgor, Drumnamoe, Taghnevan, Woodville 1 (SOA), and Parkmore Housing Estate (Craigavon)\nArke Sure Start\tAbbey Park, Callan Bridge, Downs, Keady, part of The Mall, Lisnally and Alexander areas of the Observatory\nKilkeel Sure Start\tKilkeel Central 2 (SOA) and Kilkeel South 2 (SOA)\nStar Sure Start, Banbridge\tThe Cut and Edenderry\nWESTERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA\tWARDS\nCherish Sure Start\tIrvinestown, Kesh, Ederney, Lack, Lisnarrick, Ballinamallard, Trillick, Devenish, Rosslea and Newtownbutler\nDry Arch Sure Start\tThe Highlands, Dungiven, Feeny, Upper Glenshane, Glack, Coolessan, Greystone, Enagh (Limavady) and Roeside\nSure Start Edenballymore\tBrandywell, The Diamond, Westland, Strand, Beechwood, Creggan Central, and Creggan South\nLast Sure Start\tLisanelly, Drumragh, Killyclogher, Camowen, Strule, Fintona, Termon and Gortrush\nLittle Hands Sure Start\tCrevagh, Springtown, Rosemount, Foylesprings 2\nRainbow Sure Start\tCastlederg, Glenderg, Clare, Drumquin and Newtownstewart\nSure Start Shantallow\tShantallow East, Shantallow West, Carnhill, Culmore and Ballynashallog\nStrabane Sure Start\tNorth, South, East, West, Ballycolman, Sion Mills, Finn, Dunnamanagh and Plumbridge\nWaterside Sure Start\tVictoria, Ebrington, Clondermott, Enagh and Caw\nSOUTH EASTERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA\tWARDS\nColin Sure Start\tTwinbrook, Poleglass, Colin Glen, Kilwee, Lagmore (Derriaghy)\nDownpatrick Sure Start\tCathredral, Killough, Ballymote (Flying Horse), Ardglass, Audley’s Acre, Strangford, Quoile and Murlough\nSure Start Ards\tScrabo, Portavogie, Kircubbin, Ballywalter, Portaferry and Central Ards\nBangor Sure Start\tWhitehill and Dufferin (SOAs; Conlig 3 and Harbour 1)\nLisburn Sure Start\tOld Warren, Tonagh and Hillhall 1 (SOA)\nBELFAST CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA\tWARDS\nBeechmount Sure Start\tBeechmount\nClan Mór Sure Start\tClonard and Falls\nEast Belfast Sure Start\tIsland, The Mount, Ballymacarrett, Woodstock, Enler, Tullycarnet, Cregagh, Bloomfield 1 (SOA) and Ballybean area\nGlenbrook Sure Start\tArdoyne, Cliftonville and Ligoniel\nOuter West Belfast Sure start\tAndersonstown, Glencolin, Glen Road and Ladybrook\nShankill Sure Start\tShankill, Highfield, Glencairn, Woodvale, Ballysillan and Crumlin (Belfast)\nSmile Sure Start\tNew Lodge, Waterworks, Duncairn, Mount Vernon and Shore Crescent and Castleview 1 (SOA)\nSouth Belfast Sure Start\tBallynafeigh, Shaftsbury, Botanic, Blackstaff, Upper Malone (Taughmonagh & Benmore) and Minnowburn\nSaol Úr Sure Start\tFalls Park, Upper Springfield and Whiterock","answerHtml":"The following table provides details of the Sure Start Programmes that are currently funded in the north of Ireland, displayed by Childcare Partnership and electoral ward areas. Sure Start Services are being expanded to the top 25% most disadvantaged wards (as defined by the Multiple Deprivation Measures 2010 (NIMDM 2010)) on a phased approach as budgets allow, by April 2015.
| NORTHERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA | WARDS |
| Ballymena Sure Start | Ballykeel, Ballee, Moat, Harryville, Dunclug, Fairgreen, Castle Demesne and Summerfield |
| Coleraine Sure Start | Ballysally, Central, Churchland, Cross, Glebe, Knocklynn (Windyhall Estate), University (Millburn Estate) and Royal Portrush |
| Dalriada Rural Sure Start | Armoy, Bushmills, Ballylough, Mosside, Moyarget, Dalriada, Kinbane, Glentaise, Dunserverick, Knocklayd, Bonamargy, Rathlin and Newhill |
| Gold Community Sure Start | Gortalowry, Oldtown, Killymoon and Ardboe, Dunamore, Pomeroy and Maghera |
| Horizon Sure Start | Northlands, Sunnylands, Clipperstown, Love Lane, Antiville, Ballyloran and Craigyhill and Killycrot |
| Abbey Sure Start | Abbey, Cloughfern, Coole, Dunanney, Monkstown, Valley and Whitehouse |
| Antrim Sure Start | Ballycraigy, Farrenshane and Steeple |
| SOUTHERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA | WARDS |
| Blossom Sure Start | Annagh, Ballybay, Ballyoran, Brownstown, Corcrain and Tavanagh |
| Clogher Valley Sure Start | Aughnacloy, Augher, Ballygawley, Clogher and Fivemiletown |
| Dungannon Sure Start | Ballysaggart, Benburb part ward, Coalisland South, Coolhill part ward, Drumglass part ward, Killymeal part ward, Moygashel part ward, Mullaghmore part ward, Castlecaulfield part ward, Coalisland South and Coalisland North |
| Newry City Sure Start | Ballybot, Daisyhill, Drumalane, Drumgullion, St Marys, St Patricks and Windsor Hill |
| South Armagh Sure Start | Bessbrook, Camlough, Creggan, Crossmaglen, Derrymore, Newtownhamilton, and Silver Bridge |
| Splash Sure Start | Church, Court, Drumgask, Drumgor, Drumnamoe, Taghnevan, Woodville 1 (SOA), and Parkmore Housing Estate (Craigavon) |
| Arke Sure Start | Abbey Park, Callan Bridge, Downs, Keady, part of The Mall, Lisnally and Alexander areas of the Observatory |
| Kilkeel Sure Start | Kilkeel Central 2 (SOA) and Kilkeel South 2 (SOA) |
| Star Sure Start, Banbridge | The Cut and Edenderry |
| WESTERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA | WARDS |
| Cherish Sure Start | Irvinestown, Kesh, Ederney, Lack, Lisnarrick, Ballinamallard, Trillick, Devenish, Rosslea and Newtownbutler |
| Dry Arch Sure Start | The Highlands, Dungiven, Feeny, Upper Glenshane, Glack, Coolessan, Greystone, Enagh (Limavady) and Roeside |
| Sure Start Edenballymore | Brandywell, The Diamond, Westland, Strand, Beechwood, Creggan Central, and Creggan South |
| Last Sure Start | Lisanelly, Drumragh, Killyclogher, Camowen, Strule, Fintona, Termon and Gortrush |
| Little Hands Sure Start | Crevagh, Springtown, Rosemount, Foylesprings 2 |
| Rainbow Sure Start | Castlederg, Glenderg, Clare, Drumquin and Newtownstewart |
| Sure Start Shantallow | Shantallow East, Shantallow West, Carnhill, Culmore and Ballynashallog |
| Strabane Sure Start | North, South, East, West, Ballycolman, Sion Mills, Finn, Dunnamanagh and Plumbridge |
| Waterside Sure Start | Victoria, Ebrington, Clondermott, Enagh and Caw |
| SOUTH EASTERN CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA | WARDS |
| Colin Sure Start | Twinbrook, Poleglass, Colin Glen, Kilwee, Lagmore (Derriaghy) |
| Downpatrick Sure Start | Cathredral, Killough, Ballymote (Flying Horse), Ardglass, Audley’s Acre, Strangford, Quoile and Murlough |
| Sure Start Ards | Scrabo, Portavogie, Kircubbin, Ballywalter, Portaferry and Central Ards |
| Bangor Sure Start | Whitehill and Dufferin (SOAs; Conlig 3 and Harbour 1) |
| Lisburn Sure Start | Old Warren, Tonagh and Hillhall 1 (SOA) |
| BELFAST CHILDCARE PARTNERSHIP AREA | WARDS |
| Beechmount Sure Start | Beechmount |
| Clan Mór Sure Start | Clonard and Falls |
| East Belfast Sure Start | Island, The Mount, Ballymacarrett, Woodstock, Enler, Tullycarnet, Cregagh, Bloomfield 1 (SOA) and Ballybean area |
| Glenbrook Sure Start | Ardoyne, Cliftonville and Ligoniel |
| Outer West Belfast Sure start | Andersonstown, Glencolin, Glen Road and Ladybrook |
| Shankill Sure Start | Shankill, Highfield, Glencairn, Woodvale, Ballysillan and Crumlin (Belfast) |
| Smile Sure Start | New Lodge, Waterworks, Duncairn, Mount Vernon and Shore Crescent and Castleview 1 (SOA) |
| South Belfast Sure Start | Ballynafeigh, Shaftsbury, Botanic, Blackstaff, Upper Malone (Taughmonagh & Benmore) and Minnowburn |
| Saol Úr Sure Start | Falls Park, Upper Springfield and Whiterock |
Once young people have left post-primary education, the responsibility for their transition arrangements no longer falls to the Department of Education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041361%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221278"}},{"id":"221109","reference":"AQW 41270/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-26","answerBy":"2015-02-10","answered":"2015-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, pursuant to AQW 40651/11-15, whether funding is available for this project.","answerText":"Following DFP approval of the outline business case, the next stage will be to secure the necessary capital funding to progress the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project.","answerHtml":"Following DFP approval of the outline business case, the next stage will be to secure the necessary capital funding to progress the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041270%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221109"}},{"id":"221108","reference":"AQW 41269/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-26","answerBy":"2015-02-10","answered":"2015-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how her Department is providing support for hotels.","answerText":"My Department, through Invest NI, provides a wide range of support schemes for hotels. This support includes support towards the expansion of existing hotels and development of new hotels, the delivery of tailored programmes and support to help with competitiveness, management development, people excellence, marketing, e-commerce and ICT, and the provision of information and business advice.\n\nIn the last three full financial years Invest NI has made 189 offers of assistance totalling over £2.8 million to the hotel sector. Examples of support offered during this period include grant for the addition of new rooms at the City Hotel in Londonderry, support for market repositioning at the White Horse Hotel in Campsie and assistance for management development and marketing provided to the Roe Park Resort in Limavady.\n\nDETI is currently reviewing its policy regarding the provision of support for all tourism accommodation with a view to ensuring that accommodation stock meets the future growth needs of the tourism sector.","answerHtml":"My Department, through Invest NI, provides a wide range of support schemes for hotels. This support includes support towards the expansion of existing hotels and development of new hotels, the delivery of tailored programmes and support to help with competitiveness, management development, people excellence, marketing, e-commerce and ICT, and the provision of information and business advice.
In the last three full financial years Invest NI has made 189 offers of assistance totalling over £2.8 million to the hotel sector. Examples of support offered during this period include grant for the addition of new rooms at the City Hotel in Londonderry, support for market repositioning at the White Horse Hotel in Campsie and assistance for management development and marketing provided to the Roe Park Resort in Limavady.
DETI is currently reviewing its policy regarding the provision of support for all tourism accommodation with a view to ensuring that accommodation stock meets the future growth needs of the tourism sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041269%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221108"}},{"id":"221107","reference":"AQW 41268/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-26","answerBy":"2015-02-10","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of General Practice surgeries in each of the last five years; and how his Department is encouraging young doctors to enter the GP workforce.","answerText":"The number of general practices by year is as follows;\n\nYear\tNumber of practices\nApril 2014\t350\nApril 2013\t351\nApril 2012\t353\nApril 2011\t353\nApril 2010\t357\n\nWhilst the number of practices has reduced, this is primarily as a result of GP Practices merging together.\n\nThe number of applications for GP training places in NI regularly far exceeds the number of actual places. In the latest round of applications for courses there were 185 applications for a total of 65 training places which is comparable to the demand experienced for GP training in London.\n\nUnder the remit of the regional workforce planning group a medical workforce planning subgroup was established to develop a suite of medical workforce plans, including for GPs, for the five-year period 2013-14 to 2018-19. The GP medical workforce group included representatives of the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency, the Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee, the Royal College of GPs and my Department. In addition, the HSCB has undertaken further work specifically examining potential initiatives aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of trained GPs. No final decisions will be taken until the Department has considered the findings of those reviews. Increasing the number of GP trainees would, of course, require increased funding, and any decisions would need to take account of the overall financial position of my Department.","answerHtml":"The number of general practices by year is as follows;
| Year | Number of practices |
| April 2014 | 350 |
| April 2013 | 351 |
| April 2012 | 353 |
| April 2011 | 353 |
| April 2010 | 357 |
Whilst the number of practices has reduced, this is primarily as a result of GP Practices merging together.
The number of applications for GP training places in NI regularly far exceeds the number of actual places. In the latest round of applications for courses there were 185 applications for a total of 65 training places which is comparable to the demand experienced for GP training in London.
Under the remit of the regional workforce planning group a medical workforce planning subgroup was established to develop a suite of medical workforce plans, including for GPs, for the five-year period 2013-14 to 2018-19. The GP medical workforce group included representatives of the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), the Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency, the Northern Ireland General Practitioners Committee, the Royal College of GPs and my Department. In addition, the HSCB has undertaken further work specifically examining potential initiatives aimed at improving the recruitment and retention of trained GPs. No final decisions will be taken until the Department has considered the findings of those reviews. Increasing the number of GP trainees would, of course, require increased funding, and any decisions would need to take account of the overall financial position of my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041268%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221107","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221107"}},{"id":"221106","reference":"AQW 41267/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-26","answerBy":"2015-02-10","answered":"2015-02-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current number of General Practice surgeries.","answerText":"There are currently 350 general practices across Northern Ireland serving a population of £1.8m. While the number of GP Practices has decreased by 7 over the last five years this is primarily as a result of GP Practices merging together.\n\nNI currently has the lowest average practice list size across the UK with 5,474 whilst Scotland is 5,566; Wales is 6,759; and England is 7,034.\n\nI can confirm that any patient wishing to register with a general practice within Northern Ireland is able to do so.\n\nThe HSCB keeps the overall capacity of general practice under review and develops enhanced services, as necessary, to increase capacity in response to demand. During 2014/15 the HSCB has made available £800k of additional investment for a Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service for Additional Surgeries. This service will run from 1st November 2014 to 31st March 2015 enabling GP Practices to provide additional surgeries, either in hours or in the evenings, or to put in place initiatives to manage acute demand and home visits for their patients.","answerHtml":"There are currently 350 general practices across Northern Ireland serving a population of £1.8m. While the number of GP Practices has decreased by 7 over the last five years this is primarily as a result of GP Practices merging together.
NI currently has the lowest average practice list size across the UK with 5,474 whilst Scotland is 5,566; Wales is 6,759; and England is 7,034.
I can confirm that any patient wishing to register with a general practice within Northern Ireland is able to do so.
The HSCB keeps the overall capacity of general practice under review and develops enhanced services, as necessary, to increase capacity in response to demand. During 2014/15 the HSCB has made available £800k of additional investment for a Northern Ireland Local Enhanced Service for Additional Surgeries. This service will run from 1st November 2014 to 31st March 2015 enabling GP Practices to provide additional surgeries, either in hours or in the evenings, or to put in place initiatives to manage acute demand and home visits for their patients.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041267%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=221106","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=221106"}},{"id":"221105","reference":"AQW 41266/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-26","answerBy":"2015-02-10","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail all recipients of the Community Relations, Equality and Diversity Fund in each of the last four years; and whether this will be awarded in 2015/2016.","answerText":"Details of all recipients of Community Relations, Equality and Diversity Funding in each of the last four years are listed in the tables below.\n\nFollowing an evaluation of the impact of the CRED policy by the ETI and in the context of the challenging 2015/16 education budget, I am looking at how best to support the further embedding of the CRED policy and to explore the synergies with Shared Education in order to ensure that good work to date is built upon.\n\nI have not yet, therefore, finalised the budget for 2015/16.\n\nOrganisations funded in 2011/12\n\nGROUP/SCHOOL\tPARTNER GROUP/SCHOOL (where applicable)\nBarrack Street Boys Primary School\nBelmont School\tGreenshaw Primary School\nBready Jubilee Primary School\tCulmore Primary School\nGortin Primary School\tSt Patrick’s Primary School, Gortin\nSt Celia’s College\tFoyleview School\nSt Celia’s College\tLisneal College\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Altinure\tCumber Claudy Primary School\nSt Michael’s College\tPortora Royal\nSt Joseph’s Boys’ School, Derry\tLisneal College\nSion Mills Youth Club\nBovalley Community Group - Limavady\nReach Across - Londonderry\nDestined- Derry\nArdoyne Youth Club\nBlackie River Community Group\nChinese Welfare Association\nDoyle Youth Centre\nEast Belfast Area Project\nGlen Parent Youth Group\nGlencairn Youth Initiative\nGlor na Mona\nIndian Community Centre\nJohn Paul II Youth Club\nLORAG Youth Group\nNewlodge Youth Centre\nNorth Belfast Area Project\nNubia Youth Club\nRoden Street Youth Service\nShankill Area Project\nSouth Belfast Area Project\nSt Michael’s Youth Club\nWest Belfast Area Project\nLittle Flower Girls’ School\tAshfield Boys’ High School\nBelfast Boys’ Model School\tSt Patrick’s College\nCorpus Christi College\tAshfield Boys High School\nSt Malachy’s College\tBelfast Boys’ Model School\nSt Louise’s College\tBelfast Model School for Girls\nHazelwood Integrated College\nSt Gemma’s high School\tKnockbreda High School\nSt Dominic’s High School\nBunscoil Phobal Feirste\nCliftonville Integrated primary School\tSt Therese of Lisieux Primary School\nLigoniel Primary School\tSt Vincent de Paul primary School\nEdenbrooke Primary School\tSt Joseph’s primary School\nHoly Cross Girl’s primary School\nLoughshore Education Resource Centre\nBelfast Hospital School\nHarberton School\tTaughmonagh Primary School\nArellian Nursery School\tNew Lodge Nursery School\nTudor Lodge Nursery School\tOur Lady’s Nursery School\nCathedral Nursery School\tRavenscroft Nursery School\nShaftesbury Nursery School\tSt Peter’s Nursery School\nSt Mary’s Nursery School\tSeaview Primary School\nVictoria Nursery School\tEdmund Rice Primary School\nAughnacloy Primary School\tSt Mary’s Primary School, Aughnacloy\nFivemiletown Primary School\tSt Mary’s primary School, Fivemiletown\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Cabra\tSperrinview School\nBallyoran Primary School\tBocombra Primary School\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Maghery\tBirches Primary School\nSt Bridgid’s Primary School, Drumilly\tMilltown primary School\nNewmills Primary School\tSt Mary’s Primary School, Lisbouy\nSt Antony’s Primary School\tMoyallon Primary School\nSt Oliver Plunkett’s Primary School\tDerryhale primary School\nThe Armstrong Primary School\tLisanally School\nHart memorial Primary School\tPresentation Primary School\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Stewartstown\tBallytrea Primary School\nPhoenix Integrated Primary School\tHoly Trinity Primary School, Cookstown Primary School, Cookstown High School, Holy Trinity College, Sperrin Integrated College\nSt Patrick’s Primary School, Newry\tWindsor hill Primary School\nSt Louis’ Grammar, Kilkeel\tKilkeel High School\nNewbridge Integrated College\tSt Patrick’s High School Banbridge, Banbridge High School, Rathfriland High School\nSeagoe Youth Group, Portadown\nSummer Peace Camp, Dungannon\nSummer Peace Camp, Cookstown\nInclusion in the Outdoors\nArmagh Young Women’s Travellers Group\nConnect, Taghnevan youth Club, Lurgan\nUnderstanding Diversity: Deepening Learning, Tandragee\nOasis LGBT&TH Youth Project\nThe Shine Project 2, Brownlow, Craigavon\nLegahory Young Girls’ Muslin Group, Craigavon\nBanbridge Youth Bank\nKildress peer Educators’ Youth Project, Cookstown\n\nOrganisations funded in 2012/13\n\nColin Neighbourhood Partnership\n\nDerriaghy Youth Centre\n\n37th Belfast Explorer Scouts\t29th Belfast Venture Scouts\nCregagh Youth Centre\tBallymote Health and Wellbeing\nBallynahinch Youth Club\tArds Arena Youth Club\nOld Warren Youth Initiative\tLagmore Area project\nLaurelhill Youth Centre\tMourne Youth Project\nArds Arena Youth Club\tSt Comgall's Youth Group\nBrooklands Youth Centre\tWandsworth Community Association\nArds Rural Project\nDerriaghy Youth & Resource Centre\nCrossgar, Saintfield & Killyleagh Area Project\tKillyleagh Sailing Association\nWindmill Integrated Primary School\tSt Patrick's Primary School Dungannon\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Maghery\tPortadown Integrated Primary School\nMarkethill Primary School\tSt James' Primary School Mullabrack\nBallyoran Primary School\tBocombra Primary School\nSt Paul’s HS, Bessbrook\tNewtownhamilton HS\nSt Patrick’s Primary School, Dungannon (Nursery Unit)\n\nSt Malachy’s Primary School, Glencull\nDrumnamoe Nursery School\tDromore Nursery School\nCarntall Primary School\tSt Macartans Primary School\nSt Anthony’s Primary School, Craigavon,\tMoyallon Primary School and Ceara School\nDungannon Primary School\tSt Patrick's Primary School Dungannon\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Cabragh\tSperrinview Special School\nLurgan JHS\tSt Mary's HS, Lurgan\nSt Teresa’s Primary School, Tullyherron\tMountnorris Primary School\nSt Brigid’s HS, Armagh\nSt John’s Primary School, Moy\tMoy Regional Primary School\nAughnacloy Primary School\tSt Mary's Primary School, Aughnacloy\nHart Memorial Primary School\nSELB\tSt Joseph's Boys' High School\nTaghnevan Youth Club\nYouth Included - Cookstown Youth Resource Centre\nSt Mary's Youth Club\tSeagoe Youth Club\nSeagoe Youth Group\tSt Mary's Youth Club\nGoal Line Youth Trust\nKeady Area Youth Project\tOasis LGBT&H Youth Group\nSELB Specialist Youth Development Worker\nSELB - Cookstown Youth Resource Centre\nSELB - SYW Inclusion\nGlengormley Integrated Primary School\tGlennan Primary School\nSt John's Primary School Coleraine\tKillowen\nCorran Integrated Primary School\nSt Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School\tDH Christie\nSt Mary's Primary School Cargan\tCarnlough Integrated Primary School, Seaview Primary School\nSt John's Primary School Swatragh\tEden, Primary School B'money\nSt John Bosco Primary School\tBellaghy Primary School\nEdmund Rice College\nMt St Michael's Primary School\tRandalstown Primary School\nAntrim Primary School\tSt Comgall's Primary School\nStraidbilly Primary School\tBarnish Primary School, Armoy Primary School, St Olcan's Primary School\nDuneane Primary School\tMoneynick Primary School\nBallynure Primary School\tBallyclare HS\nRasharkin Primary School\tSt Patrick's Rasharkin\nGarryduff Primary School\nOakfield Primary School\tAcorn Integrated Primary School\n\nFunded Organisations in 2013/14\n\nGROUP/SCHOOL\tPARTNER GROUP/SCHOOL (where applicable)\nHart Memorial Primary School\tPresentation Primary School\nNew-Bridge Integrated College\nSt. Mary’s Primary School, Cabra\tSperrinview Special School\nSt. Brendan’s Primary School, Craigavon (Nursery Unit)\nSt. Anthony’s Primary School, Craigavon,\tMoyallon Primary School and Ceara Special School\nSt Malachy’s Primary School, Camlough\tMarkethill Primary School\nEdendork Primary School\tHoward Primary School\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Stewartstown\tBallytrea Primary School\nBanbridge High School\tHoly Trinity College, Cookstown\nSt John’s Primary School, Moy\tMoy Regional Primary School\nWindsor Hill Primary School\tSt Patrick's Primary School Newry\nSt Patrick’s High School, Keady\tMarkethill High School\nSt Teresa’s Primary School, Tullyherron\tMountnorris Primary School\nSt Michael’s Grammar, Lurgan\tCeara School, Lurgan\nSt Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan\nSt Paul’s High School, Bessbrook\tSt Joseph's High School Crossmaglen and Newtownhamilton High School\nNewmills Primary School\tSt Mary's Primary School Lisbuoy\nDromore Road Primary School\tSt Bronagh's Primary School, Rostrevor\nBanbridge High School\tNewbridge Integrated College\nHart Memorial Primary School (Nursery Unit)\tBallyoran Primary School (Nursery Unit)\nGoal Line Youth Club\nTullygally/Drumgor, CR Project\nSeagoe Youth Group, Sporting Challenge\nArmagh Lithuanian Project\nDungannon Area CRED Project\nFivemiletown Outreach\nAll Stars Programme, Brownlow\nKeady Area Youth Project\nLurgan YMCA\nArmagh Area Outreach Programme\nCraigavon & Banbridge Young Carers\nDCLP\nPolitical & Cultural Awareness Project\nSummer Camp Project\nCornstore YC, Draperstown\n4th Ballymoney BB\nGrange Youth & Community group\nMossley Area Project\nSt Patrick's NU Rasharkin\tRasharkin Community Play Group\nCrumlin Integrated Primary School\nGlengormley Integrated Primary School\tGlenann Primary School\nMillstrand Integrated Primary School\tDamhead Primary School\nSt Patrick's Primary School Loughguile\tBroughshane Primary School\nSt James' Primary School Newtownabbey\tKing's Park Primary School\nSt John's Primary School Coleraine\tKillowen Primary School\nSt Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School\tDH Christie Memorial Primary School\nCarniny Primary School\tSt Colmcille's Primary School\nSt John's Primary School , Swatragh\tEden Primary School\nSt Brigid's Primary School Mayogall\tMaghera Primary School\nSt Columba's Primary School Kilrea\tKilrea Primary School\nSt Ciaran's Primary School Cushendun\tCarrowreagh Primary School\nSt Patrick's Primary School Rasharkin\tRasharkin Primary School\nSt Paul's Primary School Ahoghill\tSt Colmcille's Primary School\nCullybackey College\tSt Mary's College\nDownshire School\tDownshire Youth Club\nDunclug College\tSt Patrick's College, Ballymena\nMagherafelt High School\nBelfast Boys’ Model School\nBlack Mountain Primary School (Nursery Unit)\nClarawood School\nCranmore Integrated Primary School\nDominican College\nDonegall Road Primary School\nEuston Street Primary School\nFane Street Primary School\nGlenbank Nursery School\nHarding Memorial Primary School\nHoly Rosary Primary School\nLittle Flower Girls' School\nLowwood Primary School\nMcArthur Nursery School\nMitchell House School\nOrangefield Primary School\nRavenscroft Nursery School\nShaftesbury Nursery School\nSt Dominic's High School\nSt Joseph’s Primary School\nSt Louise's Comprehensive College\nSt Patrick’s College\nSt Paul’s Primary School\nSt Rose's Dominican College\nTaughmonagh Primary School\nThe Link Centre\nTudor Lodge Nursery School\nAn Munia Tober (Bryson House)\nAnnadale Haywood Residents’ Association\nCurriculum Support Unit\nCorpus Christi Youth Centre\nEast Belfast Area Project\nEast Belfast Youth Forum\nFortwilliam Youth Centre\nGay and Lesbian Youth Northern Ireland\nHoly Trinity Youth Centre\nInclusion and Diversity Team\nLedley Hall Boys’ and Girls’ Club\nNorth Belfast Area Project\nSouth Belfast Area Project\nSt Michael’s Youth Club\nSt Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre\nStreetbeat Youth Project\nWandsworth Community Association\nWest Belfast Area Project\nBoys Brigade\tGirls Brigade, Catholic Girl Guides, Scout Association, Scouting for Ireland, Ulster Guides\nYouthlink\tYMCA\nYouth Action\tPublic Achievement\nInclude Youth\nSt Joseph's Primary School, Lisburn\tHarmony Hill Primary School\nBeechlawn Special School\tPond Park School\nSt Columba's College\tGlastry College\nDerryboy Primary School\tSt Caolan's Primary School\nSt Malachy's High School\tThe High School Ballynahinch & Blackwater Integrated College\nCSK Area Project\nEast Down Rural Project\tLecale & Ards Rural\nNewcastle Youth Provision (NCD)\tLangley Youth Project\nBrooklands Youth Centre\tNorth Down, Down & Ards Inclusion Project\nBrooklands Youth Centre\tWandsworth Community Centre\nLisburn BME\tLisburn Rural\nBallynahinch Youth Office\nLaurelhill Youth Centre\nLagan College\tOur Lady & St Patrick's College & Grosvenor Grammar School\nSt Patrick's Academy, Lisburn\tLisnagarvey High School\nSt Joseph's Primary School\tNewcastle Primary School\nGlencraig Integrated Primary School\tHazelwood Integrated Primary School\nSt Mary's High School, Downpatrick\tDown High School\nNendrum College\tSt Colmcille's High School\nCumran Primary School\tSt Macartan's Primary School\nClifton Special School\tSt Comgall's Primary School\nRegent House\tAssumption Grammar School\nSt Malachy's High School\tLaurelhill Community College\nKircubbin Integrated Primary School\nBallinderry Primary School\nBallyvester Primary School\tSt Anne's Primary School\nSt Colmcilles High School\nMoira Primary School\tRowandale Integrated Primary School\nHoly Family Primary School\tAcademy Primary School\nDownpatrick Scouting Ireland Venture Group\tSouth East Down Explorer Scouts\n29th Belfast Venture Scout Group\t37th Belfast Explorer Scout Unit\nAghadrumsee Primary School\tSt Tierney's\nArdstraw Jubilee Primary School\tGortnagarn Primary School\nDrumachose Primary School\tTermoncanice Primary School\nFoyle View School\tHollybush Primary School\nGillygooley Primary School\nGood Shepherd Primary School\tFoyleview\nGortin Primary School\tSt Peter's Primary School\nHoly Family Primary School\tOmagh County Primary School\nJones Memorial Primary School\nLangfield Primary School\nSt Mary's Primary School, Altinure (P6)\tCumber Claudy Primary School\nSt Mary's Primary School, Altinure (P7)\tCumber Claudy Primary School\nSt Teresa's Primary School, Loughmacrory\nSW Inclusion Unit / Dromore Kilskerry\nOmagh / Strabane Good Relations Programme\nWELB Inclusion Unit Omagh Disability Awareness\nWELB Inclusion Unit Omagh / Strabane Autism Buddy Project\n\nFunded Organisations in 2014/15\n\nGROUP/SCHOOL\tPARTNER GROUP/SCHOOL (where applicable)\nCloughmills Primary School\tSt Bridgid’s Primary School, St Anne’s Primary School & Knockahollet Primary School\nDownshire School\tNone\nMount St Michael’s Primary School\tRiverside Special School\nSt Brigid’s Primary School, Knockloughrim\tKnockloughrim Primary School\nWoodburn Primary School\tNone\nBallykeel Primary School\tSt Brigid's Primary School, Broughshane\nBroughshane Primary School\tSt Patrick's Primary School, Loughguile\nCarrickfergus Model Primary School\tSt Nicholas' Primary School and Sunnylands Primary School\nCulcrow Primary School\tCarhill Primary School\nGlenann Primary School\tGlengormley Primary School\nKilross Primary School\tGaelscoil na Speirin\nOakfield Primary School\tAcorn Primary School\nSt Ciaran's Primary School\tCarrowreagh Primary School\nSt Columba's Primary School\tKilrea Primary School\nSt John Bosco Primary School\tBellaghy Primary School\nSt John's Primary School\tKillowen Primary School\nSt John's Primary School Swatragh\tEden Primary School\nSt Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School\tD H Christie Memorial Primary School\nSt Patrick's College\tMaghera Primary School\nSt Patrick's Primary School\tRasharkin Primary School\nSt Pius X College\tMagherafelt High School\nCushendun Young Womens Group\nPortstewart Scouts\nSunlea Youth Centre\nDiversity Competency Leadership Programme Too\nVision Summer Camp\nCheers Youth Centre, Ballymoney\tRasharkin YC\nCulnadey Girls Brigade\nRathcoole YC, Newtownabbey\nWhitehead YC\nArmoy Girls Brigade\nNewmills Primary School\tSt Mary’s Primary School, Lisbuoy\nLurgan Junior High School\tSt Mary’s Junior High School Lurgan\nNewbridge Integrated College\tBridge Integrated Primary School\nSt Francis’ Primary School, Aghaderg\nDromore Nursery\tDrumnamoe Nursery\nSt Teresa’s Primary School, Tullyherron\nWoods Primary School\tSt Trea’s Primary School, Magherafelt\nSt Mary’s Primary School, Cabra\tSperrinview School\nDromore Road Primary School\tSt Bronagh’s Primary School, Rostrevor\nStewartstown Primary School\tBallylifford Primary School\nBallyoran Primary School\tBocombra Primary School\nHart Memorial Primary School\tPresentation Primary School\nIntegrated College\tWindmill Int. Primary School\nDerryhale Primary School\nBush Primary School\tWindmill Integrated Primary School\nEdendork Primary School\tHoward Primary School\nSt Patrick’s College, Dungannon\tDrumglass HS\nSt Malachy’s Primary School, Carrickcroppan\tMarkethill Primary School\nHart Mem. Primary School (Nursery Unit)\tBallyoran Primary School (Nursery Unit)\nEdenderry Nursery School\tSt John the Baptist Nursery School\nSt Brendan’s Primary School (Nursery)\nLurgan Junior High School\tSt Mary’s Junior High School, Lurgan\nKnowing Me\nPrejudice\nAwareness Programme\nPeace by Peace\nThe Peace Project\nPortadown Interclub CR Project\nYouth Engagement Support (Yes)!\nLet’s Get Together\nCRED Action Group\nLurgan Town Project Peace Camp\nOur Space\nComing Together\nID Project\nSibling Project\nRegent House Grammar School\tAssumption Grammar School\nNewtownards Model Primary School\tSt Finian's Primary School\nBrooklands Youth Centre\tWandsworth Community Centre\nLisburn Rural Project\nLisburn BME Youth Project\tLecale Area Youth Project & Ards Youth Club\nAssumption Grammar School\tRegent House Grammar School\nSt Mark's Primary School\tBallymacash Primary School\nGlencraig Integrated Primary School\tHazelwood Integrated Primary School\nDownshire Primary School\nSt Joseph's Primary School\tNewcastle Primary School\nGood Shepherd Nursery School\tStanhope Nursery School\nBallymacrickett Primary School\tBallinderry Primary School\nDundonald Primary School\tChrist the Redeemer Primary School\nSt Colmcille's High School, Crossgar\nMillisle Primary School\tKillard House Special School\nBloomfield Primary School\tSt Nicholas' Primary School\nBeechlawn Special School\nSt Anne's Primary School\tBallyvester Primary School\nSt Macartans Primary School\tCumran Primary School\nMoira Primary School\tRowandale Integrated Primary School\nDerryboy Primary School\tSt Caolan's Primary School\nLagan College\tGrosvenor Grammar\nCastlereagh Youth Office\nColin Youth Development Centre\nNCD Youth Provision\tCregagh Youth Centre\n1st Spa Brownies\tDrumaness Girl Guides\nDownpatrick Scouting Ireland Venture Group\tSouth East Down Explorer Scouts\nCregagh Youth Club\nLagmore Area Project\tOld Warren Youth Initiatives\nBraniel Dreamscheme NI\nForthill College\tSEELB Youth Service, Lisburn (Learning Together Programme)\nArds Rural Project\tArds Estates & Ards West\nWELB Inclusion Unit North West\nWELB Inclusion Unit South West\nLong Tower YC\tCathedral YC\nOmagh Boys & Girls Club\tHospital Road YC\nTop of the Hill\tCurrynerin\nIrish Street/Clooney Community Association\nLakeland YC\tCathedral YC Enniskillen\nGaelscoil Leim an Mhadaidh\tRossmar Special School\nSt Michael's College\tPortora Royal\nSt Cecilia's College\nPortora Royal\tSt Michael's College\nGortin Primary School\tSt Peter's Primary School, Plumbridge\nAghadrumsee Primary School\tSt Tierney's Primary School\nSt Mary's Primary School Altinure\tCumber Claudy Primary School\nArdnashee School\tHollybush Primary School\nArdnashee School\tSt Anne's Primary School\nSt Joseph's Primary School Drumquin\tLangfiield Primary School\nArellian Nursery School\nAshfield Boys’ High School\nCedar Lodge School\nDonegall Road Primary School\nLittle Flower Girls’ School\nRavenscroft Nursery School\nSt Michael's Primary School\nTaughmonagh Primary School\nAshfield Girls’ High School\nBelfast Boys’ Model School\nBrefne Nursery School\nCathedral Nursery School\nChristian Brothers’ School\nCranmore Integrated Primary School\nFane Street Primary School\nGlenbank Nursery School\nHazelwood Integrated Primary School\nLowwood Primary School\nMcArthur Nursery School\nMitchell House School\n\nShaftesbury Nursery School\nSt Joseph’s Primary School\nSt Louise’s Comprehensive College\nSt Patrick's College\nSt Rose’s Dominican College\nThe Link Centre\nTudor Lodge Nursery School\nVictoria College\nVictoria Nursery School\n\nBlack Mountain Primary and Nursery School\nDeaf Youth Association\n\nArchway Youth Club\nAshton Community Trust/Newlodge Youth Centre\nBelfast YMCA\nCorpus Christi Youth Centre\nEast Belfast Area Project\nHammer Youth Club\nInclusion and Diversity Unit\nJohn Paul II Youth Club\nKids Together West Belfast\nLedley Hall Boys’ and Girls’ Club\nLigoniel Improvement Association\nMountcollyer Youth Centre\nNorth Belfast Area Project\nSouth Belfast Area Project\nSt Louis House Youth Group\nSt Michael’s Youth Club\nStreetbeat Youth Project\nSydenham Methodist Girls’ Brigade\nGirl-Guiding Ulster\nThe Scout Association\nGirls Brigade NI\nBoys Brigade NI\nScouting Ireland\nThe Catholic Guides of Ireland\nClubs for Young people\nHeadliners\nYouth Forum\nInclude Youth","answerHtml":"Details of all recipients of Community Relations, Equality and Diversity Funding in each of the last four years are listed in the tables below.
Following an evaluation of the impact of the CRED policy by the ETI and in the context of the challenging 2015/16 education budget, I am looking at how best to support the further embedding of the CRED policy and to explore the synergies with Shared Education in order to ensure that good work to date is built upon.
I have not yet, therefore, finalised the budget for 2015/16.
Organisations funded in 2011/12
| GROUP/SCHOOL | PARTNER GROUP/SCHOOL (where applicable) |
| Barrack Street Boys Primary School | |
| Belmont School | Greenshaw Primary School |
| Bready Jubilee Primary School | Culmore Primary School |
| Gortin Primary School | St Patrick’s Primary School, Gortin |
| St Celia’s College | Foyleview School |
| St Celia’s College | Lisneal College |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Altinure | Cumber Claudy Primary School |
| St Michael’s College | Portora Royal |
| St Joseph’s Boys’ School, Derry | Lisneal College |
| Sion Mills Youth Club | |
| Bovalley Community Group - Limavady | |
| Reach Across - Londonderry | |
| Destined- Derry | |
| Ardoyne Youth Club | |
| Blackie River Community Group | |
| Chinese Welfare Association | |
| Doyle Youth Centre | |
| East Belfast Area Project | |
| Glen Parent Youth Group | |
| Glencairn Youth Initiative | |
| Glor na Mona | |
| Indian Community Centre | |
| John Paul II Youth Club | |
| LORAG Youth Group | |
| Newlodge Youth Centre | |
| North Belfast Area Project | |
| Nubia Youth Club | |
| Roden Street Youth Service | |
| Shankill Area Project | |
| South Belfast Area Project | |
| St Michael’s Youth Club | |
| West Belfast Area Project | |
| Little Flower Girls’ School | Ashfield Boys’ High School |
| Belfast Boys’ Model School | St Patrick’s College |
| Corpus Christi College | Ashfield Boys High School |
| St Malachy’s College | Belfast Boys’ Model School |
| St Louise’s College | Belfast Model School for Girls |
| Hazelwood Integrated College | |
| St Gemma’s high School | Knockbreda High School |
| St Dominic’s High School | |
| Bunscoil Phobal Feirste | |
| Cliftonville Integrated primary School | St Therese of Lisieux Primary School |
| Ligoniel Primary School | St Vincent de Paul primary School |
| Edenbrooke Primary School | St Joseph’s primary School |
| Holy Cross Girl’s primary School | |
| Loughshore Education Resource Centre | |
| Belfast Hospital School | |
| Harberton School | Taughmonagh Primary School |
| Arellian Nursery School | New Lodge Nursery School |
| Tudor Lodge Nursery School | Our Lady’s Nursery School |
| Cathedral Nursery School | Ravenscroft Nursery School |
| Shaftesbury Nursery School | St Peter’s Nursery School |
| St Mary’s Nursery School | Seaview Primary School |
| Victoria Nursery School | Edmund Rice Primary School |
| Aughnacloy Primary School | St Mary’s Primary School, Aughnacloy |
| Fivemiletown Primary School | St Mary’s primary School, Fivemiletown |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Cabra | Sperrinview School |
| Ballyoran Primary School | Bocombra Primary School |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Maghery | Birches Primary School |
| St Bridgid’s Primary School, Drumilly | Milltown primary School |
| Newmills Primary School | St Mary’s Primary School, Lisbouy |
| St Antony’s Primary School | Moyallon Primary School |
| St Oliver Plunkett’s Primary School | Derryhale primary School |
| The Armstrong Primary School | Lisanally School |
| Hart memorial Primary School | Presentation Primary School |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Stewartstown | Ballytrea Primary School |
| Phoenix Integrated Primary School | Holy Trinity Primary School, Cookstown Primary School, Cookstown High School, Holy Trinity College, Sperrin Integrated College |
| St Patrick’s Primary School, Newry | Windsor hill Primary School |
| St Louis’ Grammar, Kilkeel | Kilkeel High School |
| Newbridge Integrated College | St Patrick’s High School Banbridge, Banbridge High School, Rathfriland High School |
| Seagoe Youth Group, Portadown | |
| Summer Peace Camp, Dungannon | |
| Summer Peace Camp, Cookstown | |
| Inclusion in the Outdoors | |
| Armagh Young Women’s Travellers Group | |
| Connect, Taghnevan youth Club, Lurgan | |
| Understanding Diversity: Deepening Learning, Tandragee | |
| Oasis LGBT&TH Youth Project | |
| The Shine Project 2, Brownlow, Craigavon | |
| Legahory Young Girls’ Muslin Group, Craigavon | |
| Banbridge Youth Bank | |
| Kildress peer Educators’ Youth Project, Cookstown |
Organisations funded in 2012/13
| Colin Neighbourhood Partnership | |
| Derriaghy Youth Centre | |
| 37th Belfast Explorer Scouts | 29th Belfast Venture Scouts |
| Cregagh Youth Centre | Ballymote Health and Wellbeing |
| Ballynahinch Youth Club | Ards Arena Youth Club |
| Old Warren Youth Initiative | Lagmore Area project |
| Laurelhill Youth Centre | Mourne Youth Project |
| Ards Arena Youth Club | St Comgall's Youth Group |
| Brooklands Youth Centre | Wandsworth Community Association |
| Ards Rural Project | |
| Derriaghy Youth & Resource Centre | |
| Crossgar, Saintfield & Killyleagh Area Project | Killyleagh Sailing Association |
| Windmill Integrated Primary School | St Patrick's Primary School Dungannon |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Maghery | Portadown Integrated Primary School |
| Markethill Primary School | St James' Primary School Mullabrack |
| Ballyoran Primary School | Bocombra Primary School |
| St Paul’s HS, Bessbrook | Newtownhamilton HS |
| St Patrick’s Primary School, Dungannon (Nursery Unit) | |
| St Malachy’s Primary School, Glencull | |
| Drumnamoe Nursery School | Dromore Nursery School |
| Carntall Primary School | St Macartans Primary School |
| St Anthony’s Primary School, Craigavon, | Moyallon Primary School and Ceara School |
| Dungannon Primary School | St Patrick's Primary School Dungannon |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Cabragh | Sperrinview Special School |
| Lurgan JHS | St Mary's HS, Lurgan |
| St Teresa’s Primary School, Tullyherron | Mountnorris Primary School |
| St Brigid’s HS, Armagh | |
| St John’s Primary School, Moy | Moy Regional Primary School |
| Aughnacloy Primary School | St Mary's Primary School, Aughnacloy |
| Hart Memorial Primary School | |
| SELB | St Joseph's Boys' High School |
| Taghnevan Youth Club | |
| Youth Included - Cookstown Youth Resource Centre | |
| St Mary's Youth Club | Seagoe Youth Club |
| Seagoe Youth Group | St Mary's Youth Club |
| Goal Line Youth Trust | |
| Keady Area Youth Project | Oasis LGBT&H Youth Group |
| SELB Specialist Youth Development Worker | |
| SELB - Cookstown Youth Resource Centre | |
| SELB - SYW Inclusion | |
| Glengormley Integrated Primary School | Glennan Primary School |
| St John's Primary School Coleraine | Killowen |
| Corran Integrated Primary School | |
| St Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School | DH Christie |
| St Mary's Primary School Cargan | Carnlough Integrated Primary School, Seaview Primary School |
| St John's Primary School Swatragh | Eden, Primary School B'money |
| St John Bosco Primary School | Bellaghy Primary School |
| Edmund Rice College | |
| Mt St Michael's Primary School | Randalstown Primary School |
| Antrim Primary School | St Comgall's Primary School |
| Straidbilly Primary School | Barnish Primary School, Armoy Primary School, St Olcan's Primary School |
| Duneane Primary School | Moneynick Primary School |
| Ballynure Primary School | Ballyclare HS |
| Rasharkin Primary School | St Patrick's Rasharkin |
| Garryduff Primary School | |
| Oakfield Primary School | Acorn Integrated Primary School |
Funded Organisations in 2013/14
| GROUP/SCHOOL | PARTNER GROUP/SCHOOL (where applicable) |
| Hart Memorial Primary School | Presentation Primary School |
| New-Bridge Integrated College | |
| St. Mary’s Primary School, Cabra | Sperrinview Special School |
| St. Brendan’s Primary School, Craigavon (Nursery Unit) | |
| St. Anthony’s Primary School, Craigavon, | Moyallon Primary School and Ceara Special School |
| St Malachy’s Primary School, Camlough | Markethill Primary School |
| Edendork Primary School | Howard Primary School |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Stewartstown | Ballytrea Primary School |
| Banbridge High School | Holy Trinity College, Cookstown |
| St John’s Primary School, Moy | Moy Regional Primary School |
| Windsor Hill Primary School | St Patrick's Primary School Newry |
| St Patrick’s High School, Keady | Markethill High School |
| St Teresa’s Primary School, Tullyherron | Mountnorris Primary School |
| St Michael’s Grammar, Lurgan | Ceara School, Lurgan |
| St Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan | |
| St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook | St Joseph's High School Crossmaglen and Newtownhamilton High School |
| Newmills Primary School | St Mary's Primary School Lisbuoy |
| Dromore Road Primary School | St Bronagh's Primary School, Rostrevor |
| Banbridge High School | Newbridge Integrated College |
| Hart Memorial Primary School (Nursery Unit) | Ballyoran Primary School (Nursery Unit) |
| Goal Line Youth Club | |
| Tullygally/Drumgor, CR Project | |
| Seagoe Youth Group, Sporting Challenge | |
| Armagh Lithuanian Project | |
| Dungannon Area CRED Project | |
| Fivemiletown Outreach | |
| All Stars Programme, Brownlow | |
| Keady Area Youth Project | |
| Lurgan YMCA | |
| Armagh Area Outreach Programme | |
| Craigavon & Banbridge Young Carers | |
| DCLP | |
| Political & Cultural Awareness Project | |
| Summer Camp Project | |
| Cornstore YC, Draperstown | |
| 4th Ballymoney BB | |
| Grange Youth & Community group | |
| Mossley Area Project | |
| St Patrick's NU Rasharkin | Rasharkin Community Play Group |
| Crumlin Integrated Primary School | |
| Glengormley Integrated Primary School | Glenann Primary School |
| Millstrand Integrated Primary School | Damhead Primary School |
| St Patrick's Primary School Loughguile | Broughshane Primary School |
| St James' Primary School Newtownabbey | King's Park Primary School |
| St John's Primary School Coleraine | Killowen Primary School |
| St Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School | DH Christie Memorial Primary School |
| Carniny Primary School | St Colmcille's Primary School |
| St John's Primary School , Swatragh | Eden Primary School |
| St Brigid's Primary School Mayogall | Maghera Primary School |
| St Columba's Primary School Kilrea | Kilrea Primary School |
| St Ciaran's Primary School Cushendun | Carrowreagh Primary School |
| St Patrick's Primary School Rasharkin | Rasharkin Primary School |
| St Paul's Primary School Ahoghill | St Colmcille's Primary School |
| Cullybackey College | St Mary's College |
| Downshire School | Downshire Youth Club |
| Dunclug College | St Patrick's College, Ballymena |
| Magherafelt High School | |
| Belfast Boys’ Model School | |
| Black Mountain Primary School (Nursery Unit) | |
| Clarawood School | |
| Cranmore Integrated Primary School | |
| Dominican College | |
| Donegall Road Primary School | |
| Euston Street Primary School | |
| Fane Street Primary School | |
| Glenbank Nursery School | |
| Harding Memorial Primary School | |
| Holy Rosary Primary School | |
| Little Flower Girls' School | |
| Lowwood Primary School | |
| McArthur Nursery School | |
| Mitchell House School | |
| Orangefield Primary School | |
| Ravenscroft Nursery School | |
| Shaftesbury Nursery School | |
| St Dominic's High School | |
| St Joseph’s Primary School | |
| St Louise's Comprehensive College | |
| St Patrick’s College | |
| St Paul’s Primary School | |
| St Rose's Dominican College | |
| Taughmonagh Primary School | |
| The Link Centre | |
| Tudor Lodge Nursery School | |
| An Munia Tober (Bryson House) | |
| Annadale Haywood Residents’ Association | |
| Curriculum Support Unit | |
| Corpus Christi Youth Centre | |
| East Belfast Area Project | |
| East Belfast Youth Forum | |
| Fortwilliam Youth Centre | |
| Gay and Lesbian Youth Northern Ireland | |
| Holy Trinity Youth Centre | |
| Inclusion and Diversity Team | |
| Ledley Hall Boys’ and Girls’ Club | |
| North Belfast Area Project | |
| South Belfast Area Project | |
| St Michael’s Youth Club | |
| St Peter’s Immaculata Youth Centre | |
| Streetbeat Youth Project | |
| Wandsworth Community Association | |
| West Belfast Area Project | |
| Boys Brigade | Girls Brigade, Catholic Girl Guides, Scout Association, Scouting for Ireland, Ulster Guides |
| Youthlink | YMCA |
| Youth Action | Public Achievement |
| Include Youth | |
| St Joseph's Primary School, Lisburn | Harmony Hill Primary School |
| Beechlawn Special School | Pond Park School |
| St Columba's College | Glastry College |
| Derryboy Primary School | St Caolan's Primary School |
| St Malachy's High School | The High School Ballynahinch & Blackwater Integrated College |
| CSK Area Project | |
| East Down Rural Project | Lecale & Ards Rural |
| Newcastle Youth Provision (NCD) | Langley Youth Project |
| Brooklands Youth Centre | North Down, Down & Ards Inclusion Project |
| Brooklands Youth Centre | Wandsworth Community Centre |
| Lisburn BME | Lisburn Rural |
| Ballynahinch Youth Office | |
| Laurelhill Youth Centre | |
| Lagan College | Our Lady & St Patrick's College & Grosvenor Grammar School |
| St Patrick's Academy, Lisburn | Lisnagarvey High School |
| St Joseph's Primary School | Newcastle Primary School |
| Glencraig Integrated Primary School | Hazelwood Integrated Primary School |
| St Mary's High School, Downpatrick | Down High School |
| Nendrum College | St Colmcille's High School |
| Cumran Primary School | St Macartan's Primary School |
| Clifton Special School | St Comgall's Primary School |
| Regent House | Assumption Grammar School |
| St Malachy's High School | Laurelhill Community College |
| Kircubbin Integrated Primary School | |
| Ballinderry Primary School | |
| Ballyvester Primary School | St Anne's Primary School |
| St Colmcilles High School | |
| Moira Primary School | Rowandale Integrated Primary School |
| Holy Family Primary School | Academy Primary School |
| Downpatrick Scouting Ireland Venture Group | South East Down Explorer Scouts |
| 29th Belfast Venture Scout Group | 37th Belfast Explorer Scout Unit |
| Aghadrumsee Primary School | St Tierney's |
| Ardstraw Jubilee Primary School | Gortnagarn Primary School |
| Drumachose Primary School | Termoncanice Primary School |
| Foyle View School | Hollybush Primary School |
| Gillygooley Primary School | |
| Good Shepherd Primary School | Foyleview |
| Gortin Primary School | St Peter's Primary School |
| Holy Family Primary School | Omagh County Primary School |
| Jones Memorial Primary School | |
| Langfield Primary School | |
| St Mary's Primary School, Altinure (P6) | Cumber Claudy Primary School |
| St Mary's Primary School, Altinure (P7) | Cumber Claudy Primary School |
| St Teresa's Primary School, Loughmacrory | |
| SW Inclusion Unit / Dromore Kilskerry | |
| Omagh / Strabane Good Relations Programme | |
| WELB Inclusion Unit Omagh Disability Awareness | |
| WELB Inclusion Unit Omagh / Strabane Autism Buddy Project |
Funded Organisations in 2014/15
| GROUP/SCHOOL | PARTNER GROUP/SCHOOL (where applicable) | |
| Cloughmills Primary School | St Bridgid’s Primary School, St Anne’s Primary School & Knockahollet Primary School | |
| Downshire School | None | |
| Mount St Michael’s Primary School | Riverside Special School | |
| St Brigid’s Primary School, Knockloughrim | Knockloughrim Primary School | |
| Woodburn Primary School | None | |
| Ballykeel Primary School | St Brigid's Primary School, Broughshane | |
| Broughshane Primary School | St Patrick's Primary School, Loughguile | |
| Carrickfergus Model Primary School | St Nicholas' Primary School and Sunnylands Primary School | |
| Culcrow Primary School | Carhill Primary School | |
| Glenann Primary School | Glengormley Primary School | |
| Kilross Primary School | Gaelscoil na Speirin | |
| Oakfield Primary School | Acorn Primary School | |
| St Ciaran's Primary School | Carrowreagh Primary School | |
| St Columba's Primary School | Kilrea Primary School | |
| St John Bosco Primary School | Bellaghy Primary School | |
| St John's Primary School | Killowen Primary School | |
| St John's Primary School Swatragh | Eden Primary School | |
| St Patrick's & St Brigid's Primary School | D H Christie Memorial Primary School | |
| St Patrick's College | Maghera Primary School | |
| St Patrick's Primary School | Rasharkin Primary School | |
| St Pius X College | Magherafelt High School | |
| Cushendun Young Womens Group | ||
| Portstewart Scouts | ||
| Sunlea Youth Centre | ||
| Diversity Competency Leadership Programme Too | ||
| Vision Summer Camp | ||
| Cheers Youth Centre, Ballymoney | Rasharkin YC | |
| Culnadey Girls Brigade | ||
| Rathcoole YC, Newtownabbey | ||
| Whitehead YC | ||
| Armoy Girls Brigade | ||
| Newmills Primary School | St Mary’s Primary School, Lisbuoy | |
| Lurgan Junior High School | St Mary’s Junior High School Lurgan | |
| Newbridge Integrated College | Bridge Integrated Primary School St Francis’ Primary School, Aghaderg | |
| Dromore Nursery | Drumnamoe Nursery | |
| St Teresa’s Primary School, Tullyherron | ||
| Woods Primary School | St Trea’s Primary School, Magherafelt | |
| St Mary’s Primary School, Cabra | Sperrinview School | |
| Dromore Road Primary School | St Bronagh’s Primary School, Rostrevor | |
| Stewartstown Primary School | Ballylifford Primary School | |
| Ballyoran Primary School | Bocombra Primary School | |
| Hart Memorial Primary School | Presentation Primary School | |
| Integrated College | Windmill Int. Primary School | |
| Derryhale Primary School | ||
| Bush Primary School | Windmill Integrated Primary School | |
| Edendork Primary School | Howard Primary School | |
| St Patrick’s College, Dungannon | Drumglass HS | |
| St Malachy’s Primary School, Carrickcroppan | Markethill Primary School | |
| Hart Mem. Primary School (Nursery Unit) | Ballyoran Primary School (Nursery Unit) | |
| Edenderry Nursery School | St John the Baptist Nursery School | |
| St Brendan’s Primary School (Nursery) | ||
| Lurgan Junior High School | St Mary’s Junior High School, Lurgan | |
| Knowing Me | ||
| Prejudice Awareness Programme | ||
| Peace by Peace | ||
| The Peace Project | ||
| Portadown Interclub CR Project | ||
| Youth Engagement Support (Yes)! | ||
| Let’s Get Together | ||
| CRED Action Group | ||
| Lurgan Town Project Peace Camp | ||
| Our Space | ||
| Coming Together | ||
| ID Project | ||
| Sibling Project | ||
| Regent House Grammar School | Assumption Grammar School | |
| Newtownards Model Primary School | St Finian's Primary School | |
| Brooklands Youth Centre | Wandsworth Community Centre | |
| Lisburn Rural Project | ||
| Lisburn BME Youth Project | Lecale Area Youth Project & Ards Youth Club | |
| Assumption Grammar School | Regent House Grammar School | |
| St Mark's Primary School | Ballymacash Primary School | |
| Glencraig Integrated Primary School | Hazelwood Integrated Primary School | |
| Downshire Primary School | ||
| St Joseph's Primary School | Newcastle Primary School | |
| Good Shepherd Nursery School | Stanhope Nursery School | |
| Ballymacrickett Primary School | Ballinderry Primary School | |
| Dundonald Primary School | Christ the Redeemer Primary School | |
| St Colmcille's High School, Crossgar | ||
| Millisle Primary School | Killard House Special School | |
| Bloomfield Primary School | St Nicholas' Primary School | |
| Beechlawn Special School | ||
| St Anne's Primary School | Ballyvester Primary School | |
| St Macartans Primary School | Cumran Primary School | |
| Moira Primary School | Rowandale Integrated Primary School | |
| Derryboy Primary School | St Caolan's Primary School | |
| Lagan College | Grosvenor Grammar | |
| Castlereagh Youth Office | ||
| Colin Youth Development Centre | ||
| NCD Youth Provision | Cregagh Youth Centre | |
| 1st Spa Brownies | Drumaness Girl Guides | |
| Downpatrick Scouting Ireland Venture Group | South East Down Explorer Scouts | |
| Cregagh Youth Club | ||
| Lagmore Area Project | Old Warren Youth Initiatives | |
| Braniel Dreamscheme NI | ||
| Forthill College | SEELB Youth Service, Lisburn (Learning Together Programme) | |
| Ards Rural Project | Ards Estates & Ards West | |
| WELB Inclusion Unit North West | ||
| WELB Inclusion Unit South West | ||
| Long Tower YC | Cathedral YC | |
| Omagh Boys & Girls Club | Hospital Road YC | |
| Top of the Hill | Currynerin Irish Street/Clooney Community Association | |
| Lakeland YC | Cathedral YC Enniskillen | |
| Gaelscoil Leim an Mhadaidh | Rossmar Special School | |
| St Michael's College | Portora Royal | |
| St Cecilia's College | ||
| Portora Royal | St Michael's College | |
| Gortin Primary School | St Peter's Primary School, Plumbridge | |
| Aghadrumsee Primary School | St Tierney's Primary School | |
| St Mary's Primary School Altinure | Cumber Claudy Primary School | |
| Ardnashee School | Hollybush Primary School | |
| Ardnashee School | St Anne's Primary School | |
| St Joseph's Primary School Drumquin | Langfiield Primary School | |
| Arellian Nursery School | ||
| Ashfield Boys’ High School | ||
| Cedar Lodge School | ||
| Donegall Road Primary School | ||
| Little Flower Girls’ School | ||
| Ravenscroft Nursery School | ||
| St Michael's Primary School | ||
| Taughmonagh Primary School | ||
| Ashfield Girls’ High School | ||
| Belfast Boys’ Model School | ||
| Brefne Nursery School | ||
| Cathedral Nursery School | ||
| Christian Brothers’ School | ||
| Cranmore Integrated Primary School | ||
| Fane Street Primary School | ||
| Glenbank Nursery School | ||
| Hazelwood Integrated Primary School | ||
| Lowwood Primary School | ||
| McArthur Nursery School | ||
| ||
| Shaftesbury Nursery School | ||
| St Joseph’s Primary School | ||
| St Louise’s Comprehensive College | ||
| St Patrick's College | ||
| St Rose’s Dominican College | ||
| The Link Centre | ||
| Tudor Lodge Nursery School | ||
| Victoria College | ||
| Black Mountain Primary and Nursery School | |
| ||
| Archway Youth Club | ||
| Ashton Community Trust/Newlodge Youth Centre | ||
| Belfast YMCA | ||
| Corpus Christi Youth Centre | ||
| East Belfast Area Project | ||
| Hammer Youth Club | ||
| Inclusion and Diversity Unit | ||
| John Paul II Youth Club | ||
| Kids Together West Belfast | ||
| Ledley Hall Boys’ and Girls’ Club | ||
| Ligoniel Improvement Association | ||
| Mountcollyer Youth Centre | ||
| North Belfast Area Project | ||
| South Belfast Area Project | ||
| St Louis House Youth Group | ||
| St Michael’s Youth Club | ||
| Streetbeat Youth Project | ||
| Sydenham Methodist Girls’ Brigade | ||
| Girl-Guiding Ulster | ||
| The Scout Association | ||
| Girls Brigade NI | ||
| Boys Brigade NI | ||
| Scouting Ireland | ||
| The Catholic Guides of Ireland | ||
| Clubs for Young people | ||
| Headliners | ||
| Youth Forum | ||
| Include Youth | ||
Crimes against older people are relatively rare with three in 1000 people aged 60+ becoming victims of offences of violence against the person in 2013/14. However, the fear of crime can have a negative impact on quality of life for older people, and a great deal has been done through the multi-agency delivery group to address this issue.
The Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan 2012-14 sets out actions being taken by my Department and delivery partners in relation to reducing fear of crime and helping older and vulnerable people feel safer as outlined in the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017.
When the Justice Committee approved this Action Plan in January 2013 it was agreed that a progress report would be provided after twelve months. The first progress report was provided to the Justice Committee for its meeting on 20 February 2014. A copy of this report, which sets out what was achieved in 2013-14 against agreed Community Safety Strategy outcomes and what was planned for 2014-15, is available on the Department of Justice website:
www.dojni.gov.uk/justice-committee-paper-community-safety-strategy-progress-reports
The second progress report on the Action Plan, demonstrating what was achieved in 2014-15, is due to be submitted to the Justice Committee in March and a copy will be made available on the Departmental website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041203%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220980"}},{"id":"220979","reference":"AQW 41202/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-23","answerBy":"2015-02-09","answered":"2015-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what support exists for carers who wish to participate in further and higher education.","answerText":"Financial assistance for those seeking to undertake a further or higher education course is not aimed specifically at any particular group. Financial help is targeted at those who are most in need and eligibility is based on family income. Further education students who require financial assistance with meeting the costs associated with learning, including travel and childcare costs, can apply for help through Further Education (FE) Awards and / or college Hardship funds. The amount of assistance provided is dependent on individual circumstances with the combined maximum amount payable through the FE Awards and Hardship Funds amounting to £3,500 in academic year 2014/15. Assistance with childcare costs is payable in addition to this amount.\n\nFurther details regarding financial assistance can be obtained from the Student Finance Team at any further education college.\n\nA higher education student can apply for a Special Support Grant of up to £3,475 a year, payable to some students who are eligible to claim means-tested benefits such as Income Support and Housing Benefit. Generally, this will be lone parents with caring responsibilities and students with disabilities.\n\nSupplementary grants for students, in addition to maintenance loans and grants are also available. These include: Childcare Grants available for full-time higher education students who have dependent children and a low household income; Parents’ Learning Allowance for help with course-related costs of up to £1,538 a year for students with dependent children; and Adult Dependants' Grant of up to £2,695 a year for students who have a partner or another adult who depends on them financially.\n\nIn addition, carers may be eligible to apply for a payment from the Support Funds. This is money allocated by my Department to provide financial assistance to students on lower income who are able to demonstrate that they are in financial hardship during their studies. Students seeking financial support need to apply to their university which is entirely responsible for administering the Support Funds.","answerHtml":"Financial assistance for those seeking to undertake a further or higher education course is not aimed specifically at any particular group. Financial help is targeted at those who are most in need and eligibility is based on family income. Further education students who require financial assistance with meeting the costs associated with learning, including travel and childcare costs, can apply for help through Further Education (FE) Awards and / or college Hardship funds. The amount of assistance provided is dependent on individual circumstances with the combined maximum amount payable through the FE Awards and Hardship Funds amounting to £3,500 in academic year 2014/15. Assistance with childcare costs is payable in addition to this amount.
Further details regarding financial assistance can be obtained from the Student Finance Team at any further education college.
A higher education student can apply for a Special Support Grant of up to £3,475 a year, payable to some students who are eligible to claim means-tested benefits such as Income Support and Housing Benefit. Generally, this will be lone parents with caring responsibilities and students with disabilities.
Supplementary grants for students, in addition to maintenance loans and grants are also available. These include: Childcare Grants available for full-time higher education students who have dependent children and a low household income; Parents’ Learning Allowance for help with course-related costs of up to £1,538 a year for students with dependent children; and Adult Dependants' Grant of up to £2,695 a year for students who have a partner or another adult who depends on them financially.
In addition, carers may be eligible to apply for a payment from the Support Funds. This is money allocated by my Department to provide financial assistance to students on lower income who are able to demonstrate that they are in financial hardship during their studies. Students seeking financial support need to apply to their university which is entirely responsible for administering the Support Funds.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041202%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220979"}},{"id":"220977","reference":"AQW 41201/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-23","answerBy":"2015-02-09","answered":"2015-02-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 40453/11-15, and in light of closer links between Tourism Northern Ireland and InvestNI, what communication has he had with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to ensure that skills challenges facing local tourism industry are a priority.","answerText":"Officials from my Department met with their counterparts in Tourism Northern Ireland and Invest NI on 30th January 2015 to discuss the skills needs of this economically important sector.\n\nDuring this meeting it was agreed that we will work together to establish a steering group which would commission research to investigate the skills needs facing this industry and to determine the most appropriate mechanism for addressing these issues.","answerHtml":"Officials from my Department met with their counterparts in Tourism Northern Ireland and Invest NI on 30th January 2015 to discuss the skills needs of this economically important sector.
During this meeting it was agreed that we will work together to establish a steering group which would commission research to investigate the skills needs facing this industry and to determine the most appropriate mechanism for addressing these issues.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041201%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220977"}},{"id":"220976","reference":"AQW 41200/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-23","answerBy":"2015-02-09","answered":"2015-02-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many students, in 2013/14, in the (i) Northern; and (ii) North West Regional Colleges enrolled in courses which support the hospitality and tourism sectors.","answerText":"The most recent figures available, for the 2013/14 academic year, show that (i) 985 individuals enrolled in ‘Hospitality and Catering’ or ‘Travel and Tourism’ at Northern Regional College and (ii) 1,001 individuals enrolled in ‘Hospitality and Catering’ or ‘Travel and Tourism’ at North West Regional College.\n\nThe figures are correct as at 17th October 2014 using the subject sector area Hospitality & Catering and Travel and Tourism for both colleges.","answerHtml":"The most recent figures available, for the 2013/14 academic year, show that (i) 985 individuals enrolled in ‘Hospitality and Catering’ or ‘Travel and Tourism’ at Northern Regional College and (ii) 1,001 individuals enrolled in ‘Hospitality and Catering’ or ‘Travel and Tourism’ at North West Regional College.
The figures are correct as at 17th October 2014 using the subject sector area Hospitality & Catering and Travel and Tourism for both colleges.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041200%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220976"}},{"id":"220973","reference":"AQW 41199/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-23","answerBy":"2015-02-09","answered":"2015-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on funding availability for the United Youth Programme; and when organisations will receive notification of the outcome of their pilot concept proposals.","answerText":"Funding has been secured via the Change Fund to deliver a number of pilots for the United Youth Programme during the 2015/16 financial year. All of the organisations who submitted concept proposals were advised of the outcome of their applications by 26 January 2015.\n\nOf the 130 organisations who submitted a concept proposal, 50 are being taken forward to the development phase.","answerHtml":"Funding has been secured via the Change Fund to deliver a number of pilots for the United Youth Programme during the 2015/16 financial year. All of the organisations who submitted concept proposals were advised of the outcome of their applications by 26 January 2015.
Of the 130 organisations who submitted a concept proposal, 50 are being taken forward to the development phase.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041199%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220973","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220973"}},{"id":"220719","reference":"AQW 41125/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-22","answerBy":"2015-02-06","answered":"2015-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for an update on the development of an Addressing Bureaucracy Code of Practice.","answerText":"A code of practice entitled ‘Code of Practice for Reducing Bureaucracy in Grant Funding to the Voluntary and Community Sector’ has been developed in partnership between government and the voluntary and community sector and is due to be formally launched in March 2015.","answerHtml":"A code of practice entitled ‘Code of Practice for Reducing Bureaucracy in Grant Funding to the Voluntary and Community Sector’ has been developed in partnership between government and the voluntary and community sector and is due to be formally launched in March 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041125%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220719","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220719"}},{"id":"220718","reference":"AQW 41124/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-22","answerBy":"2015-02-06","answered":"2015-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the average size of primary school class in (i) East Londonderry; and (ii) Coleraine, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The table overleaf details the average primary school class size for East Derry constituency and Coleraine LGD. The figures relate to 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14. Figures for 2014/15 will be available at the end of February.\n\nAverage primary school class size in East Londonderry constituency and Coleraine LGD, 2011/12 – 2013/14\n\n2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\n(i) East Derry\t23.0\t23.6\t23.6\n(ii) Coleraine\t23.3\t24.1\t24.3\n\nSource: NI school census\n\nNotes:\n\nData excludes learning support centre classes.\n\nFigures include pupils in years 1 – 7 only.\n\nAny composite classes including reception pupils have been included, but the class size excludes reception pupils","answerHtml":"The table overleaf details the average primary school class size for East Derry constituency and Coleraine LGD. The figures relate to 2011/12, 2012/13 and 2013/14. Figures for 2014/15 will be available at the end of February.
Average primary school class size in East Londonderry constituency and Coleraine LGD, 2011/12 – 2013/14
| 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | |
| (i) East Derry | 23.0 | 23.6 | 23.6 |
| (ii) Coleraine | 23.3 | 24.1 | 24.3 |
Source: NI school census
Notes:
Data excludes learning support centre classes.
Figures include pupils in years 1 – 7 only.
Any composite classes including reception pupils have been included, but the class size excludes reception pupils
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041124%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220718","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220718"}},{"id":"220717","reference":"AQW 41123/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-22","answerBy":"2015-02-06","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of primary school classroom assistants in East Londonderry in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The number (headcount) of primary school classroom assistants in East Derry in each of the last three years is as follows:\n\nSchool\t31/3/12\t31/3/13\t31/3/14\nBellarena PS\t0\t0\t0\nBallykelly PS\t4\t5\t6\nDrumachose PS\t5\t4\t7\nCumber Claudy PS\t4\t2\t1\nLimavady Central PS\t3\t3\t3\nDrumrane PS\t2\t1\t4\nGaelscoil Ne Achitain\t0\t0\t3\nSt Canice's PS\t0\t0\t1\nSt Anthony's PS\t2\t2\t0\nSt Matthew's PS\t3\t4\t4\nTermoncanice PS\t1\t4\t3\nSt Mary's PS\t3\t3\t4\nListress PS\t0\t1\t2\nFaughanvale PS\t4\t5\t5\nSt Aidan's PS\t3\t3\t3\nSt Canice's PS\t2\t6\t6\nSt Colmcille's PS\t10\t8\t7\nSt Peter's & St Paul's PS\t2\t1\t1\nSt Finlough's PS\t1\t1\t3\nSt John's PS\t4\t3\t2\nSt Mary's Gortnaghey PS\t1\t1\t1\nGaelscoil Leim an Mhadaidh\t0\t1\t2\nPortrush PS\t5\t6\t5\nBallytober PS\t4\t4\t4\nCarnalridge PS\t9\t11\t8\nCulcrow PS\t4\t6\t6\nDamhead PS\t8\t12\t11\nHezlett PS\t8\t9\t8\nKillowen PS\t9\t6\t9\nPortstewart PS\t4\t7\t7\nMillburn PS\t17\t15\t14\nKilrea PS\t6\t5\t7\nD H Christie Memorial PS\t16\t20\t17\nCastleroe PS\t6\t5\t5\nMacosquin PS\t12\t12\t11\nHarpurs Hill PS\t8\t8\t13\nGorran PS\t3\t3\t3\nGarvagh PS\t4\t3\t4\nBallysally PS\t11\t11\t10\nIrish Society's PS\t13\t15\t11\nSt Patrick's PS\t2\t3\t3\nBallyhackett PS\t1\t3\t3\nSt Columba's PS\t4\t4\t4\nSt Colum's PS\t7\t6\t6\nSt Patrick's & St Joseph's PS\t6\t11\t11\nSt Malachy's PS\t8\t8\t9\nSt John's PS\t4\t3\t6\nSt Columba's PS\t8\t12\t12\nCarhill Integrated PS\t2\t1\t2\nTOTAL\t243\t267\t277\n\nThe headcount figures in the table above include classroom assistants in Controlled and Maintained schools only.\n\nThe following types of classroom assistant are included:\n\n- Classroom assistant;\n\n- Special needs classroom assistant; and\n\n- Additional special needs classroom assistant.","answerHtml":"The number (headcount) of primary school classroom assistants in East Derry in each of the last three years is as follows:
| School | 31/3/12 | 31/3/13 | 31/3/14 |
| Bellarena PS | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Ballykelly PS | 4 | 5 | 6 |
| Drumachose PS | 5 | 4 | 7 |
| Cumber Claudy PS | 4 | 2 | 1 |
| Limavady Central PS | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Drumrane PS | 2 | 1 | 4 |
| Gaelscoil Ne Achitain | 0 | 0 | 3 |
| St Canice's PS | 0 | 0 | 1 |
| St Anthony's PS | 2 | 2 | 0 |
| St Matthew's PS | 3 | 4 | 4 |
| Termoncanice PS | 1 | 4 | 3 |
| St Mary's PS | 3 | 3 | 4 |
| Listress PS | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Faughanvale PS | 4 | 5 | 5 |
| St Aidan's PS | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| St Canice's PS | 2 | 6 | 6 |
| St Colmcille's PS | 10 | 8 | 7 |
| St Peter's & St Paul's PS | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| St Finlough's PS | 1 | 1 | 3 |
| St John's PS | 4 | 3 | 2 |
| St Mary's Gortnaghey PS | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Gaelscoil Leim an Mhadaidh | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Portrush PS | 5 | 6 | 5 |
| Ballytober PS | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Carnalridge PS | 9 | 11 | 8 |
| Culcrow PS | 4 | 6 | 6 |
| Damhead PS | 8 | 12 | 11 |
| Hezlett PS | 8 | 9 | 8 |
| Killowen PS | 9 | 6 | 9 |
| Portstewart PS | 4 | 7 | 7 |
| Millburn PS | 17 | 15 | 14 |
| Kilrea PS | 6 | 5 | 7 |
| D H Christie Memorial PS | 16 | 20 | 17 |
| Castleroe PS | 6 | 5 | 5 |
| Macosquin PS | 12 | 12 | 11 |
| Harpurs Hill PS | 8 | 8 | 13 |
| Gorran PS | 3 | 3 | 3 |
| Garvagh PS | 4 | 3 | 4 |
| Ballysally PS | 11 | 11 | 10 |
| Irish Society's PS | 13 | 15 | 11 |
| St Patrick's PS | 2 | 3 | 3 |
| Ballyhackett PS | 1 | 3 | 3 |
| St Columba's PS | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| St Colum's PS | 7 | 6 | 6 |
| St Patrick's & St Joseph's PS | 6 | 11 | 11 |
| St Malachy's PS | 8 | 8 | 9 |
| St John's PS | 4 | 3 | 6 |
| St Columba's PS | 8 | 12 | 12 |
| Carhill Integrated PS | 2 | 1 | 2 |
| TOTAL | 243 | 267 | 277 |
The headcount figures in the table above include classroom assistants in Controlled and Maintained schools only.
The following types of classroom assistant are included:
- Classroom assistant;
- Special needs classroom assistant; and
- Additional special needs classroom assistant.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041123%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220717","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220717"}},{"id":"220716","reference":"AQW 41122/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-22","answerBy":"2015-02-06","answered":"2015-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of off-peak, socially necessary, public transport provision.","answerText":"My Department has continued to provide direct subsidy to Translink to support the provision of transport options through the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) for socially necessary routes.\n\nMany rural areas have benefitted from this including: Antrim, Armagh, Ballymena, Bangor, Coleraine, Craigavon, Downpatrick, Dungannon, Enniskillen, Lisburn, Londonderry, Magherafelt, Newcastle, Newry, Newtownabbey, Newtownards and Omagh.\n\nSocially necessary, off-peak public transport provision by its nature is transport that would be uneconomically viable without additional funding. It is important to say that until the latest budget the Department subsidised, through a substantial fuel rebate cost, all bus services.\n\nThe detailed implication of the budget for 2015/16 is yet to be worked out. However there will be difficult decisions to make regarding the future of services bearing in mind the overall funding to Translink and Community Transport has been reduced next year.","answerHtml":"My Department has continued to provide direct subsidy to Translink to support the provision of transport options through the Rural Transport Fund (RTF) for socially necessary routes.
Many rural areas have benefitted from this including: Antrim, Armagh, Ballymena, Bangor, Coleraine, Craigavon, Downpatrick, Dungannon, Enniskillen, Lisburn, Londonderry, Magherafelt, Newcastle, Newry, Newtownabbey, Newtownards and Omagh.
Socially necessary, off-peak public transport provision by its nature is transport that would be uneconomically viable without additional funding. It is important to say that until the latest budget the Department subsidised, through a substantial fuel rebate cost, all bus services.
The detailed implication of the budget for 2015/16 is yet to be worked out. However there will be difficult decisions to make regarding the future of services bearing in mind the overall funding to Translink and Community Transport has been reduced next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041122%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220716","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220716"}},{"id":"220715","reference":"AQW 41121/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-22","answerBy":"2015-02-06","answered":"2015-01-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how primary school funding per head of child is determined; and for his assessment of funding per head in the Coleraine area.","answerText":"All grant-aided schools receive a delegated budget under the Local Management of Schools arrangements. The formula funded budgets for schools reflect a range of factors including pupil year groups, additional funding support for smaller schools, funding to reflect social deprivation, premises and above average teaching costs etc. Details of the funding arrangements for schools are set out in the Common Funding Scheme, available on the Department’s website: www.deni.gov.uk/schools and infrastructure/schools finance/common funding.\n\nThe overall average per capita funding for all primary schools in the Coleraine District Council area in 2014/15 was £3,013. This includes pupils in nursery classes within primary settings where applicable.\n\nThis represents recurrent funding delegated to schools in the current year and excludes other programme funds or centrally administered (non-delegated) funding such as home-to-school transport, meals services, statemented pupil costs etc. provided to schools outside of their delegated budgets.","answerHtml":"All grant-aided schools receive a delegated budget under the Local Management of Schools arrangements. The formula funded budgets for schools reflect a range of factors including pupil year groups, additional funding support for smaller schools, funding to reflect social deprivation, premises and above average teaching costs etc. Details of the funding arrangements for schools are set out in the Common Funding Scheme, available on the Department’s website: www.deni.gov.uk/schools and infrastructure/schools finance/common funding.
The overall average per capita funding for all primary schools in the Coleraine District Council area in 2014/15 was £3,013. This includes pupils in nursery classes within primary settings where applicable.
This represents recurrent funding delegated to schools in the current year and excludes other programme funds or centrally administered (non-delegated) funding such as home-to-school transport, meals services, statemented pupil costs etc. provided to schools outside of their delegated budgets.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041121%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220715","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220715"}},{"id":"220780","reference":"AQO 7487/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-22","answerBy":"2015-02-03","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the impact that the current differential pig meat market price between Northern Ireland and Great Britain is likely to have on the growth objectives for the pig sector as outlined in the 'Going for Growth' report.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I am aware of the difference in the prices paid to pig producers in Britain compared with those paid to producers in the North and that a growth in the differential has coincided with a wider downward trend in European pig prices. Whilst that price differential is a commercial matter and my Department has no remit to intervene, I am aware that the current fall in pig prices is placing our pig sector under considerable pressure and is limiting growth opportunities. Pig farming plays a significant role in the agricultural economy here, and it is important that we work to help the sector be sustainable and build resilience against market volatility. The Going for Growth action plan sets ambitious targets for the local pig sector, and I am hopeful that the sector will meet them. I recently met with local pork processors to discuss access to new trade markets, including China and Australia. My officials are working to secure access to those markets, which will hopefully mean greater returns for the pig sector. It is also hoped that that will mitigate price fluctuations and contribute to growth in the sector. In addition, a key recommendation in the Going for Growth action plan was to have the farm business improvement scheme, which is being developed under the new rural development programme. That will also assist our local pig sector in taking advantage of current and future market opportunities."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for her answer. Does she have any plans to appoint an independent veterinary expert to provide strategic oversight of the health of the pig herd to ensure effective growth?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I am happy for the Member to write to me to talk about that. It is an issue that has been raised on a few occasions in the past. I am keen to do everything that we can to protect the interests of the pig sector. We are actively pursuing additional markets, which will obviously help with the price issue. Export growth is what we are targeting. We are disappointed that we have not had the visits from the Chinese officials recently, but we are hopeful that those will happen over the next number of months. I have assured the industry that, if needs be, I will go to China and seek political meetings, if doing so will improve the situation and speed up the time frame of those inspections."},{"speaker":"","text":"We are also looking towards new markets. Australia is another market that the local industry is very interested in. So, I suppose that, in trying to create new market opportunities, working alongside the industry through the advisers we have on the ground, I think that a combination of issues will hopefully see the industry through what is a difficult time."},{"speaker":"Mr Byrne","text":"Given that people involved in pig production have two major bottlenecks, the price of pig meal feeds and the pressure from the banks, can the Minister give any reassurance or encouragement to the pig men in relation to talking to the feed suppliers and, indeed, the banks to give them some space?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I met the banks just before Christmas to ask them for some compassion and flexibility, initially in relation to the dairy sector, but, obviously that is relevant right across the board, with the pig sector in difficulties too. Whilst I cannot do anything about the market issues that lead to price, we can chase after new markets, as I said. Alongside that, it is about what we can do in-house to assist the industry. I assure the Member that we will continue to do that."},{"speaker":"Mr Irwin","text":"Given that pig prices in Northern Ireland are running at about 20p per kilo less than the current UK price, does the Minister accept that that leaves our producers at a big disadvantage and that it is, therefore, unacceptable?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I am aware of the difference between the price paid for pigs in Britain and here in the North and of the fact that that gap has grown, with local processors dropping their prices by quite a greater degree against the standard pig price. As I said, the price that farmers are paid for their produce is a commercial matter, and the Department does not have a remit to intervene on that issue. Nevertheless, as I have always made very clear, I believe that farmers should receive a fair price for their produce. I encourage all elements of the supply chain to work together to mitigate fluctuations and to facilitate sustainability in local farming, particularly in the pig sector."},{"speaker":"Mr Cree","text":"The Minister has touched on this issue, but will she provide an update on the progress of the audit from the Chinese authorities on the pig industry?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I had a recent meeting with the pig industry on 19 January. I advised them that we were initially expecting the visit to be last week but that that had been postponed. So, we have engaged with the Chinese officials at a political level in China to try to secure that engagement. We have been told that it will certainly be over the next number of months. We were also delighted to host a delegation from Australia in looking towards opening up that market for us, so we are coming at it from a number of angles. Certainly, the industry here is greatly disappointed that Chinese officials have not been here yet for the inspections, given that producers are all in a state of readiness and are very happy to open their doors to show the safe and secure practices that they have. We are hopeful of securing access to those markets. I will do all that I can at a political level to encourage the Chinese visit as soon as possible. Obviously, I will keep the industry up to speed on any developments."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207487%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220780","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-02-03&docID=221589#AQO%207487/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220780"}},{"id":"220565","reference":"AQW 41088/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-21","answerBy":"2015-02-05","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail the groups that his Department has consulted with on transport provision for disabled and older people.","answerText":"Over the past year, my Department has consulted with the following groups on transport provision for disabled and older people.\n\nAction Mental Health – New Horizons\n\nAction on Hearing Loss (formerly Royal National Institute for Deaf people);\n\nAge Friendly Belfast\n\nBarnardos\n\nBelfast Health and Social Care Trust\n\nBelfast Education and Library Board\n\nCommunity Transport Association\n\nConsumer Council\n\nDepartment of Health, Social Services and Public Safety\n\nDepartment of Education\n\nDisability Action\n\nEpilepsy Northern Ireland\n\nFederation of Passenger Transport\n\nGreater Belfast Seniors’ Forum\n\nGuide Dogs for the Blind\n\nHealth and Social Care Board\n\nInclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC)\n\nJunction Club.\n\nMENCAP\n\nNational Autistic Society\n\nNorth Eastern Education and Library Board\n\nNorthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nNorthern Ireland Ambulance Service\n\nPrivate Bus Operators\n\nRoyal National Institute for the Blind\n\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\n\nThe Cedar Foundation\n\nRural Community Transport Partnerships\n\nSouth Eastern Education and Library Board\n\nSouthern Education and Library Board\n\nSouthern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nTranslink\n\nWestern Education and Library Board\n\nWestern Health and Social Care Trust\n\nThe Department also consults regularly with the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC), whose role is to advise Government departments in Northern Ireland on issues that affect the mobility of older people and disabled people.","answerHtml":"Over the past year, my Department has consulted with the following groups on transport provision for disabled and older people.
Action Mental Health – New Horizons
Action on Hearing Loss (formerly Royal National Institute for Deaf people);
Age Friendly Belfast
Barnardos
Belfast Health and Social Care Trust
Belfast Education and Library Board
Community Transport Association
Consumer Council
Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety
Department of Education
Disability Action
Epilepsy Northern Ireland
Federation of Passenger Transport
Greater Belfast Seniors’ Forum
Guide Dogs for the Blind
Health and Social Care Board
Inclusive Mobility and Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC)
Junction Club.
MENCAP
National Autistic Society
North Eastern Education and Library Board
Northern Health and Social Care Trust
Northern Ireland Ambulance Service
Private Bus Operators
Royal National Institute for the Blind
Rural Community Transport Partnerships
The Cedar Foundation
Rural Community Transport Partnerships
South Eastern Education and Library Board
Southern Education and Library Board
Southern Health and Social Care Trust
Translink
Western Education and Library Board
Western Health and Social Care Trust
The Department also consults regularly with the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC), whose role is to advise Government departments in Northern Ireland on issues that affect the mobility of older people and disabled people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041088%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220565"}},{"id":"220563","reference":"AQW 41087/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-21","answerBy":"2015-02-05","answered":"2015-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the future of services facilitated through the Translink Rural Transport Fund.","answerText":"The detailed implication of the budget for 2015/16 is yet to be worked out. There will be difficult decisions to make regarding the future of services bearing in mind the overall funding to Translink and Community Transport has been reduced by at least £13m and £2m next year respectively.","answerHtml":"The detailed implication of the budget for 2015/16 is yet to be worked out. There will be difficult decisions to make regarding the future of services bearing in mind the overall funding to Translink and Community Transport has been reduced by at least £13m and £2m next year respectively.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041087%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220563","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220563"}},{"id":"220562","reference":"AQW 41086/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-21","answerBy":"2015-02-05","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AQW 39660/11-15, for his assessment of the impact that fare increases will have on consumers with disabilities who hold the Half Fare Smartpass.","answerText":"Half-fare Smartpass holders will continue to pay half the price of the relevant adult bus single fare and half the price of the relevant adult rail single and day return fare.\n\nAs from 16 February 2015, fares will increase for all customers by an average of 5.3% for Metro, 4% for Ulsterbus and 4.5% for NI Railways. The value of the half fare concession will therefore increase proportionately.\n\nTranslink has been able to freeze fares on public transport services for over 18 months and since I became Minister in 2011, bus fares have increased by only 6% and rail fares by 8% whilst inflation over the same period was 14%. In other words fares have fallen significantly in real terms.\n\nIt is acknowledged that bus and rail fares in Northern Ireland are lower than and have risen by less than Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Indeed if I compare the fares since 2011 against fares in Northern Ireland, Great Britain has increased bus and rail fares by 19% and in the Republic of Ireland bus fares have increased by between 20 and 40% and the rail fares by 38%.","answerHtml":"Half-fare Smartpass holders will continue to pay half the price of the relevant adult bus single fare and half the price of the relevant adult rail single and day return fare.
As from 16 February 2015, fares will increase for all customers by an average of 5.3% for Metro, 4% for Ulsterbus and 4.5% for NI Railways. The value of the half fare concession will therefore increase proportionately.
Translink has been able to freeze fares on public transport services for over 18 months and since I became Minister in 2011, bus fares have increased by only 6% and rail fares by 8% whilst inflation over the same period was 14%. In other words fares have fallen significantly in real terms.
It is acknowledged that bus and rail fares in Northern Ireland are lower than and have risen by less than Great Britain and the Republic of Ireland. Indeed if I compare the fares since 2011 against fares in Northern Ireland, Great Britain has increased bus and rail fares by 19% and in the Republic of Ireland bus fares have increased by between 20 and 40% and the rail fares by 38%.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041086%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220562","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220562"}},{"id":"220526","reference":"AQW 41068/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-21","answerBy":"2015-02-05","answered":"2015-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the number of graduates, who have a primary degree in a science discipline, who progress into primary and post-primary teaching positions.","answerText":"I refer to my answer to AQW 38063/11-15 tabled by Robin Swann and published in the Official Report on 21 November 2014, which details the position for primary school teachers with a science degree.\n\nIn relation to post primary school teachers, data held by the General Teaching Council (GTCNI) indicates that there are currently 894 teachers currently employed who hold a degree in which the main specialism is a science subject.\n\nThere may also be teachers employed in schools who hold a subsidiary science subject within their degree, or who have not advised the GTCNI of additional qualifications which they may hold over and above those required to teach here..\n\nI am of course conscious of the importance of ensuring adequate appropriately trained science teachers in our schools. Consequently, when setting intakes to courses of initial teacher education my Department has advised the Higher Education Institutions to give priority to enrolling students to STEM subjects. The selection of students for entry to courses of initial teacher education is however a matter for the providing institution.","answerHtml":"I refer to my answer to AQW 38063/11-15 tabled by Robin Swann and published in the Official Report on 21 November 2014, which details the position for primary school teachers with a science degree.
In relation to post primary school teachers, data held by the General Teaching Council (GTCNI) indicates that there are currently 894 teachers currently employed who hold a degree in which the main specialism is a science subject.
There may also be teachers employed in schools who hold a subsidiary science subject within their degree, or who have not advised the GTCNI of additional qualifications which they may hold over and above those required to teach here..
I am of course conscious of the importance of ensuring adequate appropriately trained science teachers in our schools. Consequently, when setting intakes to courses of initial teacher education my Department has advised the Higher Education Institutions to give priority to enrolling students to STEM subjects. The selection of students for entry to courses of initial teacher education is however a matter for the providing institution.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041068%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220526","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220526"}},{"id":"220524","reference":"AQW 41066/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-21","answerBy":"2015-02-05","answered":"2015-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the role of the Joint Government/Voluntary and Community Sector Forum.","answerText":"My assessment of the Joint Forum is very positive. I see the Joint Forum as being responsible for promoting and regularly reviewing the implementation of the Concordat between the Voluntary and Community Sector and the Northern Ireland Government. This Concordat is the formal agreement which articulates the shared vision of these social partners as we build a participative, peaceful, equitable and inclusive community in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Joint Forum is an important partnership between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector which helps us work together to better serve the people in Northern Ireland. The Joint Forum is made up of representatives from Central and Local Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector and provides a mechanism to facilitate open discussion of key issues which shape the relationship between the Voluntary and Community sector and the Northern Ireland Government.","answerHtml":"My assessment of the Joint Forum is very positive. I see the Joint Forum as being responsible for promoting and regularly reviewing the implementation of the Concordat between the Voluntary and Community Sector and the Northern Ireland Government. This Concordat is the formal agreement which articulates the shared vision of these social partners as we build a participative, peaceful, equitable and inclusive community in Northern Ireland.
The Joint Forum is an important partnership between Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector which helps us work together to better serve the people in Northern Ireland. The Joint Forum is made up of representatives from Central and Local Government and the Voluntary and Community Sector and provides a mechanism to facilitate open discussion of key issues which shape the relationship between the Voluntary and Community sector and the Northern Ireland Government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041066%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220524","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220524"}},{"id":"220371","reference":"AQW 41010/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-20","answerBy":"2015-02-04","answered":"2015-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the effectiveness of the Maximising Access in Rural Areas to Grants, Services and Benefits (MARA) project in providing access to services, grants and benefits for people living in rural areas who are at risk of poverty and social isolation.","answerText":"I am very pleased with how the MARA Project has been delivered across all rural areas of the north of Ireland in the past 3 years. All targets set for the Project have been achieved. To date 13,479 households and over 15,000 individuals have had a holistic assessment of their needs in respect of entitlement and availability of various grants, benefits and services. From these assessments, over 36,000 referrals have been made to government agencies and departments.\n\nAn evaluation of the project which will commence shortly will provide a comprehensive assessment of the project effectiveness when it reports later this year.","answerHtml":"I am very pleased with how the MARA Project has been delivered across all rural areas of the north of Ireland in the past 3 years. All targets set for the Project have been achieved. To date 13,479 households and over 15,000 individuals have had a holistic assessment of their needs in respect of entitlement and availability of various grants, benefits and services. From these assessments, over 36,000 referrals have been made to government agencies and departments.
An evaluation of the project which will commence shortly will provide a comprehensive assessment of the project effectiveness when it reports later this year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041010%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220371","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220371"}},{"id":"220370","reference":"AQW 41009/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-20","answerBy":"2015-02-04","answered":"2015-02-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many applications for funding from the European Social Fund were received from the East Londonderry area.","answerText":"A total of 135 applications were submitted to the European Social Fund by the closing date of 9 January 2015 with 4 of the applications from the East Londonderry constituency.","answerHtml":"A total of 135 applications were submitted to the European Social Fund by the closing date of 9 January 2015 with 4 of the applications from the East Londonderry constituency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041009%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220370","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220370"}},{"id":"220369","reference":"AQW 41008/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-20","answerBy":"2015-02-04","answered":"2015-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what mechanisms are in place to (i) identify young people who are not in education, training or employment; (ii) encourage their engagement in programmes to address their needs; and (iii) monitor the outcomes of their engagement with relevant programmes.","answerText":"The Executive agreed the Northern Ireland cross-departmental strategy for those young people in the Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) category, ‘Pathways to Success’, in 2012.\n\nThe strategy contains an Action Plan which pulls together actions across Departments, statutory agencies, the voluntary and community sector and local government, and employers also have a role to play. The NEET Advisory Group (NAG) chaired by DEL, brings together key decision makers from Government Departments, voluntary and community, education, health, social care and business sectors and local government. The Group provides leadership and co-ordination of the programme of interventions. It also addresses the need to improve the information base available to all the stakeholders involved so that the actions can be targeted effectively at those most in need and continue to be informed by best practice elsewhere.\n\nIn developing the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy, DEL also helped establish the independent NEET Strategy Forum to engage and help join up those organisations in the voluntary and community sector who deliver services in this area. The Forum consists of some 80 members currently, membership is open and Forum members are also represented on the NEET Advisory Group.\n\nTo support a method of agreeing best practice, the Forum is supporting the introduction of the Journey to Employment (JET) pilot. This is a Shared Measurement Framework for Young people who are in need of Education, Employment and Training. The Forum is also developing a NEET Youth Forum (NYF), promoting a Mapping Tool to provide a map of service provision available to NEETs. We are considering the role of the Forum following the formal evaluation of Pathways to Success and the introduction of the new ESF programme.\n\nCollaboration and Innovation Fund (CIF) projects use a range of methods to identify young people who are not in education employment and training. These include collaboration with local community groups and government bodies, advertising through various media sources, the distribution of promotional leaflets and by project staff conducting home visits within local communities.\n\nProjects use a range of activities to encourage CIF participation, such as the use of IT packages, digital media, music and outdoor team building events. Incentives provided by projects and the availability of an Educational Maintenance Allowance of up to £25 per week for 16-17 year olds helps to retain participants’ commitment to the programme. These, combined with access to a personal mentor, have proved successful in providing the motivation for young people to progress to more intensive activities such as vocational training and work experience.\n\nStatistics received on a monthly basis from CIF projects provide information on the destination of all programme leavers including, into employment, education and training. Statistics are also collected on the level of qualifications obtained and the number of essential skills qualifications achieved.\n\nBy the end of December 2014, a total of 5,284 young people commenced Collaboration and Innovation Funded (CIF) projects. Of the 3,754 leaving the programme 2,870 have completed activities with 1,954 moving into positive outcomes of employment 496 (13%), education 485 (13%) and training 973 (26%). Performance of individual projects is monitored on a monthly basis by DEL staff.\n\nThe Community Family Support Programme providers and DEL staff monitor the destinations of young people participating on the programme at the end of each 26 week programme cycle. Data at the end of cycle two showed that, of the 319 NEETs participating on the programme, 206 (65%) progressed to positive destinations in education, employment and training.\n\nDuring the period April 2014 to December 2014, a total of 2,422 clients were case loaded to the LEMIS programme, of these 999 were young people not in Education, Employment or training. Derry Job Assist Centre case-loaded 417 clients and 73 people (17.5%) commenced permanent full time employment, seven commenced part time employment and eight entered temporary employment. 145 of those case loaded were NEET clients, 28 commenced permanent full time employment, three commenced part time employment and four commenced temporary employment. The unit cost of a client entering permanent full time employment for this period was £3,556.\n\nMonitoring of statistical information is carried out on a monthly basis using Provider returns and LEMIS spreadsheets.\n\nTracking System\n\nData sharing arrangements have been agreed with 258 schools out of a total of 265, including 210 post-primary, 40 special needs and 15 independent schools. DEL’s Careers Service provides full class lists from schools, including details on pupils who are in Alternative Schooling or those that have been suspended. Data sharing ensures that all young people at school and at risk of becoming or remaining NEET can be identified and offered advice. Careers advisers actively case-manage early leavers from school and DEL funded programmes for 16 and 17 year olds. Those identified as being NEET are supported into appropriate provision.\n\nThe Unique Learner Number (ULN) has already been adopted by DEL across all its programmes and is being adopted by the Department of Education (DE). This will support the ongoing development of a system to track individuals’ employment, training and educational progress.","answerHtml":"The Executive agreed the Northern Ireland cross-departmental strategy for those young people in the Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) category, ‘Pathways to Success’, in 2012.
The strategy contains an Action Plan which pulls together actions across Departments, statutory agencies, the voluntary and community sector and local government, and employers also have a role to play. The NEET Advisory Group (NAG) chaired by DEL, brings together key decision makers from Government Departments, voluntary and community, education, health, social care and business sectors and local government. The Group provides leadership and co-ordination of the programme of interventions. It also addresses the need to improve the information base available to all the stakeholders involved so that the actions can be targeted effectively at those most in need and continue to be informed by best practice elsewhere.
In developing the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy, DEL also helped establish the independent NEET Strategy Forum to engage and help join up those organisations in the voluntary and community sector who deliver services in this area. The Forum consists of some 80 members currently, membership is open and Forum members are also represented on the NEET Advisory Group.
To support a method of agreeing best practice, the Forum is supporting the introduction of the Journey to Employment (JET) pilot. This is a Shared Measurement Framework for Young people who are in need of Education, Employment and Training. The Forum is also developing a NEET Youth Forum (NYF), promoting a Mapping Tool to provide a map of service provision available to NEETs. We are considering the role of the Forum following the formal evaluation of Pathways to Success and the introduction of the new ESF programme.
Collaboration and Innovation Fund (CIF) projects use a range of methods to identify young people who are not in education employment and training. These include collaboration with local community groups and government bodies, advertising through various media sources, the distribution of promotional leaflets and by project staff conducting home visits within local communities.
Projects use a range of activities to encourage CIF participation, such as the use of IT packages, digital media, music and outdoor team building events. Incentives provided by projects and the availability of an Educational Maintenance Allowance of up to £25 per week for 16-17 year olds helps to retain participants’ commitment to the programme. These, combined with access to a personal mentor, have proved successful in providing the motivation for young people to progress to more intensive activities such as vocational training and work experience.
Statistics received on a monthly basis from CIF projects provide information on the destination of all programme leavers including, into employment, education and training. Statistics are also collected on the level of qualifications obtained and the number of essential skills qualifications achieved.
By the end of December 2014, a total of 5,284 young people commenced Collaboration and Innovation Funded (CIF) projects. Of the 3,754 leaving the programme 2,870 have completed activities with 1,954 moving into positive outcomes of employment 496 (13%), education 485 (13%) and training 973 (26%). Performance of individual projects is monitored on a monthly basis by DEL staff.
The Community Family Support Programme providers and DEL staff monitor the destinations of young people participating on the programme at the end of each 26 week programme cycle. Data at the end of cycle two showed that, of the 319 NEETs participating on the programme, 206 (65%) progressed to positive destinations in education, employment and training.
During the period April 2014 to December 2014, a total of 2,422 clients were case loaded to the LEMIS programme, of these 999 were young people not in Education, Employment or training. Derry Job Assist Centre case-loaded 417 clients and 73 people (17.5%) commenced permanent full time employment, seven commenced part time employment and eight entered temporary employment. 145 of those case loaded were NEET clients, 28 commenced permanent full time employment, three commenced part time employment and four commenced temporary employment. The unit cost of a client entering permanent full time employment for this period was £3,556.
Monitoring of statistical information is carried out on a monthly basis using Provider returns and LEMIS spreadsheets.
Tracking System
Data sharing arrangements have been agreed with 258 schools out of a total of 265, including 210 post-primary, 40 special needs and 15 independent schools. DEL’s Careers Service provides full class lists from schools, including details on pupils who are in Alternative Schooling or those that have been suspended. Data sharing ensures that all young people at school and at risk of becoming or remaining NEET can be identified and offered advice. Careers advisers actively case-manage early leavers from school and DEL funded programmes for 16 and 17 year olds. Those identified as being NEET are supported into appropriate provision.
The Unique Learner Number (ULN) has already been adopted by DEL across all its programmes and is being adopted by the Department of Education (DE). This will support the ongoing development of a system to track individuals’ employment, training and educational progress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041008%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220369","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220369"}},{"id":"220366","reference":"AQW 41006/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-20","answerBy":"2015-02-04","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the Contacting Elderly Rural Isolated pilot project in the Western Health and Social Care Trust area; and whether she will consider rolling out a similar project to reduce social isolation for vulnerable older people in rural areas of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Connecting Elderly Rural Isolated (CERI) pilot project is proving to be an effective mechanism to alleviate social isolation among vulnerable elderly people living in rural areas of the Western Health and Social Care Trust area. 1,927 isolated elderly rural people have directly benefitted from CERI since commencement in January 2012. Following completion of the CERI pilot, an evaluation will be undertaken which will inform potential future mainstreaming of the Flexicare/CERI initiative. This approach has been endorsed by the Health and Social Care Board and would involve other HSC Trusts.","answerHtml":"The Connecting Elderly Rural Isolated (CERI) pilot project is proving to be an effective mechanism to alleviate social isolation among vulnerable elderly people living in rural areas of the Western Health and Social Care Trust area. 1,927 isolated elderly rural people have directly benefitted from CERI since commencement in January 2012. Following completion of the CERI pilot, an evaluation will be undertaken which will inform potential future mainstreaming of the Flexicare/CERI initiative. This approach has been endorsed by the Health and Social Care Board and would involve other HSC Trusts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041006%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220366"}},{"id":"220361","reference":"AQW 41001/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-20","answerBy":"2015-02-04","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many rural households have benefited from her Department’s Fuel Poverty Intervention scheme.","answerText":"2,748 rural households have benefited from fuel poverty interventions supported through my Department’s Tackling Rural Poverty & Social Isolation Programme and its predecessor, the rural Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Programme since 1 April 2008.","answerHtml":"2,748 rural households have benefited from fuel poverty interventions supported through my Department’s Tackling Rural Poverty & Social Isolation Programme and its predecessor, the rural Anti-Poverty and Social Inclusion Programme since 1 April 2008.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2041001%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220361","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220361"}},{"id":"220176","reference":"AQW 40905/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-19","answerBy":"2015-02-03","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of major departmental infrastructural projects which have been abandoned, having been put out to tender; and to detail the expense incurred.","answerText":"My Department does not have major departmental infrastructure projects that have been abandoned having been put out to tender.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have major departmental infrastructure projects that have been abandoned having been put out to tender.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040905%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220176","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220176"}},{"id":"220175","reference":"AQW 40904/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-19","answerBy":"2015-02-03","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of the role and effectiveness of the One Plan Interdepartmental Coordination Group.","answerText":"The One Plan Interdepartmental Coordination Group provides strategic analysis and advice to the Executive, departments and the Derry/Londonderry Strategy Board on the most appropriate means through which the policies, programmes and projects of Executive Departments can positively impact the One Plan. The Group meets twice a year to monitor progress and it also provides a forum for the discussion and resolution of cross cutting issues. Individual departments remain, however, responsible for the implementation of their own policies, programmes and projects.\n\nProgress continues to be made on the implementation of the One Plan across each of the Catalyst Programmes to grow the local economy, and provide more jobs.","answerHtml":"The One Plan Interdepartmental Coordination Group provides strategic analysis and advice to the Executive, departments and the Derry/Londonderry Strategy Board on the most appropriate means through which the policies, programmes and projects of Executive Departments can positively impact the One Plan. The Group meets twice a year to monitor progress and it also provides a forum for the discussion and resolution of cross cutting issues. Individual departments remain, however, responsible for the implementation of their own policies, programmes and projects.
Progress continues to be made on the implementation of the One Plan across each of the Catalyst Programmes to grow the local economy, and provide more jobs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040904%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220175"}},{"id":"220173","reference":"AQW 40902/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-19","answerBy":"2015-02-03","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 39389/11-15, whether it is likely that findings of the stakeholder review of the North West Gateway Initiative, and material relating to further consultation with relevant Departments, will be published in due course.","answerText":"We refer you to our answer of 9 December 2014.\n\nThe publication of the Stakeholder consultation is a matter for the North South Ministerial Council to consider at a future meeting.","answerHtml":"We refer you to our answer of 9 December 2014.
The publication of the Stakeholder consultation is a matter for the North South Ministerial Council to consider at a future meeting.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040902%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220173","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220173"}},{"id":"220115","reference":"AQW 40856/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-16","answerBy":"2015-02-02","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 38521/11-15, what proportion of this site is likely to be designated for use by the community voluntary sector.","answerText":"Our aim is that community needs should be identified and taken into account in the future disposal of the Shackleton site. Any plans for the future development of the site will be expected to demonstrate how this would be done.","answerHtml":"Our aim is that community needs should be identified and taken into account in the future disposal of the Shackleton site. Any plans for the future development of the site will be expected to demonstrate how this would be done.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040856%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220115","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220115"}},{"id":"220114","reference":"AQW 40855/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-16","answerBy":"2015-02-02","answered":"2015-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, pursuant to AQW 40276/11-15, to detail any plans his Department has to fulfil the priorities for Education, as outlined in the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety led draft Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Strategy, by introducing an awareness programme for use in post-primary schools.","answerText":"The Department is committed to fulfilling its priorities under the Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Strategy.\n\nIn respect of post-primary programmes, Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a statutory component of both the Personal Development and Home Economics statements of requirement for Key Stage 3. At Key Stage 4, RSE is a statutory component of the Personal Development strand of Learning for Life and Work. RSE provides the opportunity for specific attention to be given to a pupil’s emotional wellbeing, health and safety, relationships and the development of a moral thinking and value system. The strand also offers a vehicle for exploring with children and young people sensitive issues such as domestic violence and sexual abuse in an age appropriate way.","answerHtml":"The Department is committed to fulfilling its priorities under the Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Strategy.
In respect of post-primary programmes, Relationships and Sexuality Education (RSE) is a statutory component of both the Personal Development and Home Economics statements of requirement for Key Stage 3. At Key Stage 4, RSE is a statutory component of the Personal Development strand of Learning for Life and Work. RSE provides the opportunity for specific attention to be given to a pupil’s emotional wellbeing, health and safety, relationships and the development of a moral thinking and value system. The strand also offers a vehicle for exploring with children and young people sensitive issues such as domestic violence and sexual abuse in an age appropriate way.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040855%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220114","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220114"}},{"id":"220113","reference":"AQW 40854/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-16","answerBy":"2015-02-02","answered":"2015-02-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how she is encouraging foreign direct investment by selling the attributes of areas outside of Belfast and Londonderry.","answerText":"Invest NI’s track record in attracting high quality Foreign Direct Investment provides a very significant benefit for all of Northern Ireland. A record year in 2013/14 was followed by Invest NI’s best ever mid-year results, released at the start of November last year, with some of the achievements from the previous year already surpassed. Those mid-year results show that 40% of the job-related inward investment offers were made to companies outside the Belfast and Londonderry areas.\n\nIt is important to note that, in order to compete internationally, Invest NI promotes Northern Ireland as a whole. To promote parts of Northern Ireland individually, or to exclude specific areas, would dilute the proposition in what is a very competitive market for FDI. That is not to say that Invest NI does not take steps to understand and appreciate each area’s key demographics and attributes. This is achieved through direct engagement with interested parties in a number of ways.\n\nFor example, Invest NI has engaged with a number of Councils and other stakeholders to help them develop sales propositions which show the strengths and opportunities in their area. The agency has also developed an “FDI app” and a “District Council App” and is working with a number of Councils on developing this tool. The app will help present a snapshot of the benefits of setting up in Northern Ireland, and in specific areas, to potential investors.\n\nUltimately the investor will make the decision as to where they locate based on their specific business needs and having considered the options available to them. The requirements will vary depending on the nature of the project, but a company will typically look at existing investors in the same business sector; universities and colleges that offer courses relating to that sector; and suitable, available property. In addition, potential investors are often drawn to population centres that they consider will provide the appropriate number of suitably skilled potential employees. Therefore, a clear understanding and evidence of skill demographics for any region greatly assist a potential investor in considering a particular area.","answerHtml":"Invest NI’s track record in attracting high quality Foreign Direct Investment provides a very significant benefit for all of Northern Ireland. A record year in 2013/14 was followed by Invest NI’s best ever mid-year results, released at the start of November last year, with some of the achievements from the previous year already surpassed. Those mid-year results show that 40% of the job-related inward investment offers were made to companies outside the Belfast and Londonderry areas.
It is important to note that, in order to compete internationally, Invest NI promotes Northern Ireland as a whole. To promote parts of Northern Ireland individually, or to exclude specific areas, would dilute the proposition in what is a very competitive market for FDI. That is not to say that Invest NI does not take steps to understand and appreciate each area’s key demographics and attributes. This is achieved through direct engagement with interested parties in a number of ways.
For example, Invest NI has engaged with a number of Councils and other stakeholders to help them develop sales propositions which show the strengths and opportunities in their area. The agency has also developed an “FDI app” and a “District Council App” and is working with a number of Councils on developing this tool. The app will help present a snapshot of the benefits of setting up in Northern Ireland, and in specific areas, to potential investors.
Ultimately the investor will make the decision as to where they locate based on their specific business needs and having considered the options available to them. The requirements will vary depending on the nature of the project, but a company will typically look at existing investors in the same business sector; universities and colleges that offer courses relating to that sector; and suitable, available property. In addition, potential investors are often drawn to population centres that they consider will provide the appropriate number of suitably skilled potential employees. Therefore, a clear understanding and evidence of skill demographics for any region greatly assist a potential investor in considering a particular area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040854%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220113"}},{"id":"220112","reference":"AQW 40853/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-16","answerBy":"2015-02-02","answered":"2015-02-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 38521/11-15, to detail the outcome of meetings with the local community association in Ballykelly.","answerText":"Meetings between officials and the local community association in Ballykelly have been positive, and discussions have taken place regarding the community benefits which could be derived from the future development of the Shackleton site.\n\nAny plans for the future development of the site will be expected to demonstrate how community needs have been identified and will be met.","answerHtml":"Meetings between officials and the local community association in Ballykelly have been positive, and discussions have taken place regarding the community benefits which could be derived from the future development of the Shackleton site.
Any plans for the future development of the site will be expected to demonstrate how community needs have been identified and will be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040853%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220112"}},{"id":"220111","reference":"AQW 40852/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-16","answerBy":"2015-02-02","answered":"2015-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to list the organisations that received funding from the Collaboration and Innovation Fund, which is due to run out in March 2015.","answerText":"Funding of £9.23 million has been allocated to 24 organisations under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund to support young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).\n\nThese organisations are as follows:\n\nAction for Children Services Ltd\n\nArtillery Youth Centre\n\nBarnardos NI\n\nBelfast Metropolitan College\n\nBryson Charitable Group\n\nCustomized Training Services\n\nDerry City Council\n\nExtern Organisation Ltd\n\nFast Track into Information Technology\n\nGEMS NI Ltd\n\nInclude Youth\n\nMACS Supporting Young People\n\nNIACRO\n\nNOW Lto\n\nStart 360\n\nSouth Eastern Health & Social Care Trust\n\nSouth Eastern Regional College\n\nSouth West College\n\nSouthern Regional College\n\nSport Changes Life Foundation\n\nThe Appleby Trust\n\nThe Prince’s Trust\n\nTraining for Women Network Ltd\n\nYouth Action NI\n\nWhile funding under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund will cease at the end of March 2015, my department will continue to support young people not in education, employment or training through the new European Social Fund (ESF) Programme commencing in April 2015. Through ESF funding and the contribution from my department which equates to 65%, over £13.5 million will be made available to support this group of young people from April 2015 to March 2018, under the first call for funding. With the required 35% match funding, this will bring the total funding for this group of young people to almost £21 million over the three year period.","answerHtml":"Funding of £9.23 million has been allocated to 24 organisations under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund to support young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).
These organisations are as follows:
Action for Children Services Ltd
Artillery Youth Centre
Barnardos NI
Belfast Metropolitan College
Bryson Charitable Group
Customized Training Services
Derry City Council
Extern Organisation Ltd
Fast Track into Information Technology
GEMS NI Ltd
Include Youth
MACS Supporting Young People
NIACRO
NOW Lto
Start 360
South Eastern Health & Social Care Trust
South Eastern Regional College
South West College
Southern Regional College
Sport Changes Life Foundation
The Appleby Trust
The Prince’s Trust
Training for Women Network Ltd
Youth Action NI
While funding under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund will cease at the end of March 2015, my department will continue to support young people not in education, employment or training through the new European Social Fund (ESF) Programme commencing in April 2015. Through ESF funding and the contribution from my department which equates to 65%, over £13.5 million will be made available to support this group of young people from April 2015 to March 2018, under the first call for funding. With the required 35% match funding, this will bring the total funding for this group of young people to almost £21 million over the three year period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040852%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=220111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=220111"}},{"id":"219955","reference":"AQW 40786/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-15","answerBy":"2015-01-30","answered":"2015-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the rationale for removing the bus provided for the visually impaired at the Blind Centre, Coleraine, in December 2014.","answerText":"The bus referred to is not provided by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. It is operated by RNIB NI and it was their decision to remove it.\n\nFor any further information regarding this matter the member may wish to contact Mr David Galloway, Director RNIB NI, at David.Galloway@rnib.org.uk or on 028 90329373.","answerHtml":"The bus referred to is not provided by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. It is operated by RNIB NI and it was their decision to remove it.
For any further information regarding this matter the member may wish to contact Mr David Galloway, Director RNIB NI, at David.Galloway@rnib.org.uk or on 028 90329373.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040786%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219955"}},{"id":"219954","reference":"AQW 40785/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-15","answerBy":"2015-01-30","answered":"2015-02-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of applications which have been submitted to the Warm Homes Scheme in each of the last three years; and how many have been successful.","answerText":"The table below details the number of eligible referrals received under the Warm Homes Scheme and the number of energy efficiency measures carried out in the last 3 years.\n\nYear\t*Referrals Received\tEnergy Efficiency Measures carried out\n2011/12\t17,189\t10,654\n2012/13\t14,413\t9,904\n2013/14\t14,210\t8,718\n\n* Referral means that a householder has contacted the Warm Homes Scheme seeking help, but their entitlement has not been confirmed.\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The table below details the number of eligible referrals received under the Warm Homes Scheme and the number of energy efficiency measures carried out in the last 3 years.
| Year | *Referrals Received | Energy Efficiency Measures carried out |
| 2011/12 | 17,189 | 10,654 |
| 2012/13 | 14,413 | 9,904 |
| 2013/14 | 14,210 | 8,718 |
* Referral means that a householder has contacted the Warm Homes Scheme seeking help, but their entitlement has not been confirmed.
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040785%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219954","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219954"}},{"id":"219953","reference":"AQW 40784/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-15","answerBy":"2015-01-30","answered":"2015-01-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of homes that will be targeted by the Affordable Warmth Scheme; and the average annual savings this will generate for his Department.","answerText":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency of at least 9,000 low income households each year. This target is the same as was in place for the Warm Homes Scheme and has been consistently exceeded. The Affordable Warmth Scheme will target and assist households most at risk of fuel poverty.\n\nThe scheme was launched in September 2014 and although at an early stage is already being effectively delivered across all council areas. I have allocated £16.5 million to the Affordable Warmth Scheme for the 2015/16 year the same amount as was allocated to the Warm Homes Scheme in 2014/2015.","answerHtml":"The Affordable Warmth Scheme aims to improve the energy efficiency of at least 9,000 low income households each year. This target is the same as was in place for the Warm Homes Scheme and has been consistently exceeded. The Affordable Warmth Scheme will target and assist households most at risk of fuel poverty.
The scheme was launched in September 2014 and although at an early stage is already being effectively delivered across all council areas. I have allocated £16.5 million to the Affordable Warmth Scheme for the 2015/16 year the same amount as was allocated to the Warm Homes Scheme in 2014/2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040784%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219953"}},{"id":"219952","reference":"AQW 40783/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-15","answerBy":"2015-01-30","answered":"2015-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the effectiveness of the Learner Access and Engagement Programme in addressing educational underachievement and social disadvantage.","answerText":"The Learner Access and Engagement (LAE) programme was initially introduced in 2008 as a pilot programme to engage with and encourage those most hard to reach and to provide learner support. The three year pilot was established in the absence of any other focused provision at that time. A longitudinal evaluation of this pilot in 2012 reflected that the programme had been successful on several fronts and demonstrated emerging evidence, at that time, of a need for this type of intervention, and the programme was mainstreamed as a result.\n\nThe last full year of the pilot programme recorded a total of 3,359 enrolments. However since mainstreaming, enrolment figures have been steadily declining with 2013/14 activity reflecting a total of 1,698 enrolments against a target of 4,500. Third party providers have not been as successful in attracting and retaining learners on the programme.\n\nOne of the significant impacts of the programme has been that further education colleges themselves, outside of LAE and within mainstream provision, have since built the capacity, awareness and expertise in targeting and engaging those most hard to reach into further education provision and increasing retention and delivering successful outcomes.","answerHtml":"The Learner Access and Engagement (LAE) programme was initially introduced in 2008 as a pilot programme to engage with and encourage those most hard to reach and to provide learner support. The three year pilot was established in the absence of any other focused provision at that time. A longitudinal evaluation of this pilot in 2012 reflected that the programme had been successful on several fronts and demonstrated emerging evidence, at that time, of a need for this type of intervention, and the programme was mainstreamed as a result.
The last full year of the pilot programme recorded a total of 3,359 enrolments. However since mainstreaming, enrolment figures have been steadily declining with 2013/14 activity reflecting a total of 1,698 enrolments against a target of 4,500. Third party providers have not been as successful in attracting and retaining learners on the programme.
One of the significant impacts of the programme has been that further education colleges themselves, outside of LAE and within mainstream provision, have since built the capacity, awareness and expertise in targeting and engaging those most hard to reach into further education provision and increasing retention and delivering successful outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040783%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219952"}},{"id":"219951","reference":"AQW 40782/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-15","answerBy":"2015-01-30","answered":"2015-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people over the age of 65 years who receive publicly funded care in their own homes.","answerText":"The information requested is not currently available. However, information on clients receiving an intensive domiciliary care service is available.\n\nDuring a survey week in 2013 6,664 clients aged 65 and over were receiving an intensive domiciliary care service.\n\nSource: Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland (2013) http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/domiciliary-care.htm\n\nDomiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland (2014) will be published on 12th February 2015 and will contain information on clients aged 65 and over who were receiving a domiciliary care service during the survey week in 2014.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not currently available. However, information on clients receiving an intensive domiciliary care service is available.
During a survey week in 2013 6,664 clients aged 65 and over were receiving an intensive domiciliary care service.
Source: Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland (2013) http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/domiciliary-care.htm
Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland (2014) will be published on 12th February 2015 and will contain information on clients aged 65 and over who were receiving a domiciliary care service during the survey week in 2014.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040782%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219951","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219951"}},{"id":"219899","reference":"AQO 7410/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-15","answerBy":"2015-01-26","answered":"2015-01-26","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, further to his recent meeting with the Ulster Farmers' Union, for his assessment of current health care provision in rural communities.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"With your permission, Mr Deputy Speaker, I will respond to questions 3 and 8 together. I am committed to improving the health and well-being of the rural population and to taking forward the commitment for health in the rural White Paper action plan. My Department and the Public Health Agency are committed to working jointly with the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development on initiatives such as the maximising access in rural areas (MARA) project and the farm families health checks programme. I also want to ensure that high-quality care continues to be provided to people with palliative and end-of-life care needs, irrespective of where they live or where their care is delivered. The Health and Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency, in conjunction with Marie Curie, are taking forward the Transforming Your Palliative and End-of-life Care programme. The programme aims to improve the design and delivery of coordinated services and ensure equity of access to services for urban and rural communities. It will do that through the development of person-centred care so that people with palliative and end-of-life care needs will have, as far as possible, choice in how and where their care is provided."},{"speaker":"Mr McMullan","text":"Go raibh maith agat. I thank the Minister for that partial answer, but he has still not answered the question. When will rural dwellers see the investment in community and palliative care that the all-singing and all-dancing Transforming Your Care promised when it came out and all its plans were announced to the public? Will the Minister guarantee the House and the wider public today that any decision that he takes through Transforming Your Care for the rural community will first be rural-proofed?"},{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"As I already mentioned to the Member, the Executive have adopted the rural White Paper action plan for Northern Ireland. That followed extensive engagement with stakeholders and Departments. It was agreed by the Executive in May 2012. That demonstrates the Executive's commitment to improving the quality of life of those who live in rural areas. The plan was developed to provide a strategic framework for rural policy for the next 10 years. It provides a framework for a more integrated approach by the Executive to seek to address the challenges facing rural communities and to help ensure the future sustainability of rural areas. It contains commitments on rural issues by all Departments, including mine."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"One of the biggest access issues for rural constituents is community transport. The Blind Centre in my constituency recently lost its transport. How is the Minister working with Minister Kennedy to ensure consistent and adequate rural transport for those specifically with a disability?"},{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"As the honourable Member for East Londonderry will know, rural transport is outwith the control of the Department of Health. However, I realise that it is an important factor in people getting access to essential services. She raised the particular issue of the Blind Centre in Coleraine. I am more than happy to take up that issue with Minister Kennedy to see what is happening. In my area, the Down Armagh Rural Transport Partnership (DART) is having huge difficulties with funding at the moment. Essential services are being withdrawn because the cash is not being made available to enable an extensive service to remain available to the community. I am therefore more than happy to pursue the issue. Coleraine is not the area that I would be in most often, so I am not across the particular issue raised. I know that the Member is raising it on behalf of her constituents, and I am more than happy to follow up on that with Minister Kennedy."},{"speaker":"Mr G Robinson","text":"Will the Minister provide an update on the paediatric palliative care strategy?"},{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"The Department's review of paediatric services — Sorry, I did not quite hear the Member. Was it paediatric or palliative care?"},{"speaker":"Mr G Robinson","text":"Palliative care."},{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"The Department places huge store on protecting and enhancing palliative care services. Indeed, we have an agreement with Marie Curie, which organises visits to those in rural areas who have end-of-life care needs. Indeed, I was also up at the Northern Ireland Children's Hospice, and I noticed that it has a team of nurses who go to every county in Northern Ireland to provide care to people who look after young children who have end-of-life care needs. I was very impressed with the quality of the care that I saw, and I am committed to ensuring that the review of palliative care continues to reach out to rural communities. I want to continue to work with the charitable NGO sector in this respect. We also provide domiciliary care to 25,000 people in Northern Ireland, many of whom, of course, are elderly people, and some of whom have palliative care needs. So, there is a commitment throughout Northern Ireland to ensure that we do our best for people who wish to remain in their community in their last days. We know how difficult a period this is in their lives and the lives of their families, and I would like to think that the Department, through the five trusts, is working to ensure that people, in even the most remote areas, are getting the care they require."},{"speaker":"Mrs Overend","text":"Care in the community is especially important in rural areas, yet each of the trusts is cutting support for domiciliary care. Can the Minister detail how this is justifiable?"},{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"The overall level of domiciliary care is actually continuing to increase. I think that she is referring to the fact that, under the contingency plans to save money in the last four months of this financial year, some trusts have been adopting a policy of providing only two out of three non-urgent packages to slow down demand and restrict growth in the budget. This does not mean that there is not an overall growth in the programme, and it continues to be a major component of the social care budget. This will be reviewed, of course, in the context of Budget 2015-16. I have not yet had direction from the trusts on what they intend to do, but, if anyone needs a domiciliary care package urgently, they are still getting it. I emphasise that. It is only the non-essential packages that are being restricted and, even then, it is two out of three, and that policy does not apply to all trusts. This is a rapidly growing part of our budget, and, indeed, as part of Transforming Your Care, one of the main focuses of that document is to transfer funding from further up the healthcare ladder down to domiciliary care."},{"speaker":"Dr McDonnell","text":"Mr Deputy Speaker, can I take this opportunity to congratulate the Minister on his earlier warm comments about GPs? They are outstanding people dedicated to serving the community at a level that is far beyond the norm that is expected. [Laughter.]"},{"speaker":"Mr Deputy Speaker (Mr Beggs)","text":"Can we have a question, please?"},{"speaker":"Dr McDonnell","text":"Minister, your comments will be noted and remembered. We started off by talking about Transforming Your Care in this question. Minister, to what extent are the health trusts involved in the decision-making to close nursing homes such as Orchard House in Belfast? What assurances can be given to residents affected by those decisions that they will be provided with suitable alternative accommodation or provision in the community?"},{"speaker":"Mr Wells","text":"Orchard is a private facility. The Department has no direct control over private nursing homes. We have had situations where they have announced closure, and, of course, they have to consult before doing so. It then becomes the trust's role, in this case the Belfast Trust, to provide alternative accommodation for the residents of a private home. We had a similar situation in Bangor. You will understand that, as a privately owned facility, it is a matter between the Belfast Trust and the RQIA that, during the period of notice, they meet all the relevant registration and contractual requirements and that the residents are appropriately and successfully relocated. From experience, I have found that it is always possible to relocate residents in this situation. I understand, of course, that, if someone has lived a large portion at the end of their life in a private residential or nursing home, the trauma and upheaval of having to be moved out and be split from friends is very difficult. You will understand that the Department could not get into the situation of moving in and bailing out, or rescuing, private residential nursing homes, because, when there is alternative provision, we have to make use of it. There have been some isolated incidents of this happening, but, on all occasions, the residents have been relocated to other facilities in a reasonably short period."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207410%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219899","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-01-26&docID=220588#AQO%207410/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219899"}},{"id":"219750","reference":"AQW 40720/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-14","answerBy":"2015-01-29","answered":"2015-02-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail proposals which have been submitted, to benefit from unallocated Financial Transactions Capital funding, since the 2014 October Monitoring Round.","answerText":"My Statement to the Assembly on the 2014-15 January Monitoring Round detailed allocations of ring-fenced Financial Transactions Capital totalling £40.6 million, including £38.5 million to support the University of Ulster Greater Belfast Development and £2.1 million for the Invest NI Growth Loan Fund. This ensured that all of the Financial Transactions Capital available to the Executive in this year is now allocated to departments.\n\nNo other bids were submitted for Financial Transactions Capital in the January Monitoring Round.\n\nDetails of allocations for 2015-16 are detailed in the Executive’s Final Budget.","answerHtml":"My Statement to the Assembly on the 2014-15 January Monitoring Round detailed allocations of ring-fenced Financial Transactions Capital totalling £40.6 million, including £38.5 million to support the University of Ulster Greater Belfast Development and £2.1 million for the Invest NI Growth Loan Fund. This ensured that all of the Financial Transactions Capital available to the Executive in this year is now allocated to departments.
No other bids were submitted for Financial Transactions Capital in the January Monitoring Round.
Details of allocations for 2015-16 are detailed in the Executive’s Final Budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040720%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219750","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219750"}},{"id":"219749","reference":"AQW 40719/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-14","answerBy":"2015-01-29","answered":"2015-01-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what provision exists within his Department to support rural houses who wish to install mains water.","answerText":"Under Article 76 of the Water and Sewerage Services (NI) Order 2006 NI Water has a duty to provide a public water main if required to do so by the owner or occupier of a domestic property.\n\nNI Water currently provides a Reasonable Cost Allowance (RCA) of around £2,000 per property. For properties built before 2000, the Department supplements this allowance so that the total contribution is £12,000 per property.\n\nMore recent properties are entitled to the lesser RCA of around £2,000 as householders are expected to include the cost of a water main in the overall cost of a new build.","answerHtml":"Under Article 76 of the Water and Sewerage Services (NI) Order 2006 NI Water has a duty to provide a public water main if required to do so by the owner or occupier of a domestic property.
NI Water currently provides a Reasonable Cost Allowance (RCA) of around £2,000 per property. For properties built before 2000, the Department supplements this allowance so that the total contribution is £12,000 per property.
More recent properties are entitled to the lesser RCA of around £2,000 as householders are expected to include the cost of a water main in the overall cost of a new build.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040719%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219749","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219749"}},{"id":"219748","reference":"AQW 40718/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-14","answerBy":"2015-01-29","answered":"2015-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, pursuant to AQW 35358/11-15, how many premises have benefited from more choice and improved broadband speeds through the BT Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement project.","answerText":"I can confirm that to 31 December 2014, the availability of broadband services has been improved to almost 17,500 premises through the implementation of the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that to 31 December 2014, the availability of broadband services has been improved to almost 17,500 premises through the implementation of the Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040718%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219748","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219748"}},{"id":"219745","reference":"AQW 40715/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-14","answerBy":"2015-01-29","answered":"2015-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on a proposed intervention area for improvements to broadband provision through Phase 2 of the UK Superfast Rollout Programme; and whether she plans to award a supply contract.","answerText":"The proposed intervention area for the Superfast Roll-out Programme Phase 2 in Northern Ireland was published by my Department on 26 August 2014 for full public consultation. The response to the consultation feedback is available on the Department’s website at www.detini.gov.uk/index/what-we-do/deti-telecoms-index/telecoms-srp.htm.\n\nAn Invitation to Tender to find a suitable supplier was issued on 12 November 2014 with a closing date of 26 January 2015. The final intervention area is dependent on the response to the Invitation to Tender. Assuming that an acceptable bid is received, it is anticipated that contract award will be made towards the end of February 2015 with implementation commencing immediately thereafter.","answerHtml":"The proposed intervention area for the Superfast Roll-out Programme Phase 2 in Northern Ireland was published by my Department on 26 August 2014 for full public consultation. The response to the consultation feedback is available on the Department’s website at www.detini.gov.uk/index/what-we-do/deti-telecoms-index/telecoms-srp.htm.
An Invitation to Tender to find a suitable supplier was issued on 12 November 2014 with a closing date of 26 January 2015. The final intervention area is dependent on the response to the Invitation to Tender. Assuming that an acceptable bid is received, it is anticipated that contract award will be made towards the end of February 2015 with implementation commencing immediately thereafter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040715%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219745","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219745"}},{"id":"219743","reference":"AQW 40713/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-14","answerBy":"2015-01-29","answered":"2015-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for her assessment of the success of the BT Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement project in improving access to basic and superfast fixed-line broadband services for rural areas.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project is being delivered in eight phases with an overall completion date of 31 December 2015. The project is progressing according to schedule and by 31 December 2014 almost 17,500 premises across Northern Ireland had benefitted from the improvements being delivered.\n\nBy project completion, it is anticipated that improvements will have been delivered for at least 45,000 premises resulting in the provision of basic wire-line broadband services of at least 2 Megabits per second in areas that previously had no service and improvements in the availability of superfast fixed-line broadband services (24 Megabits per second or higher) in areas where choice is poor or broadband speeds are low.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement Project is being delivered in eight phases with an overall completion date of 31 December 2015. The project is progressing according to schedule and by 31 December 2014 almost 17,500 premises across Northern Ireland had benefitted from the improvements being delivered.
By project completion, it is anticipated that improvements will have been delivered for at least 45,000 premises resulting in the provision of basic wire-line broadband services of at least 2 Megabits per second in areas that previously had no service and improvements in the availability of superfast fixed-line broadband services (24 Megabits per second or higher) in areas where choice is poor or broadband speeds are low.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040713%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219743","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219743"}},{"id":"219582","reference":"AQW 40656/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-13","answerBy":"2015-01-28","answered":"2015-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department ensures that services and support identified in carers assessments for older carers are implemented.","answerText":"All HSC Trusts use the Northern Ireland Single Assessment Tool (NISAT) Carers Support and Needs Assessment to assess the ability of carers to carry on caring. The aim of the assessment is to identify whether the impact of caring on the carer is putting their caring role at risk in the future, and to determine what supports could be put in place to support and sustain the carer in their caring role.\n\nFollowing the assessment, support services can be offered in line with existing Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust priorities. However, it is important to recognise that a carers’ assessment is also about a therapeutic engagement and a recognition of the carer’s circumstances and the importance of their role – not only about facilitating the provision of practical supports\n\nThe NISAT Carers’ Assessment component collects a record of unmet need experienced by carers. Trusts are required to log this information and report to the HSC Board in order to inform the commissioning and future planning of services. It is important that the needs of individual carers are properly understood and that HSC Board and Trusts use this information for service planning to support as many carers as possible.","answerHtml":"All HSC Trusts use the Northern Ireland Single Assessment Tool (NISAT) Carers Support and Needs Assessment to assess the ability of carers to carry on caring. The aim of the assessment is to identify whether the impact of caring on the carer is putting their caring role at risk in the future, and to determine what supports could be put in place to support and sustain the carer in their caring role.
Following the assessment, support services can be offered in line with existing Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust priorities. However, it is important to recognise that a carers’ assessment is also about a therapeutic engagement and a recognition of the carer’s circumstances and the importance of their role – not only about facilitating the provision of practical supports
The NISAT Carers’ Assessment component collects a record of unmet need experienced by carers. Trusts are required to log this information and report to the HSC Board in order to inform the commissioning and future planning of services. It is important that the needs of individual carers are properly understood and that HSC Board and Trusts use this information for service planning to support as many carers as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040656%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219582","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219582"}},{"id":"219581","reference":"AQW 40655/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-13","answerBy":"2015-01-28","answered":"2015-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether a key point of contact exists within each Health and Social Care Trust to encourage and assist older carers with the carers assessment, review and reassessment.","answerText":"As I have previously advised, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts undertake a high level engagement process across all Programmes of Care (POC) to identify as many ‘hidden’ carers as possible. As part of this engagement process, HSC Trusts support and promote a range of public awareness campaigns, including the Carers Trust ‘Mind the Gap’ project, which specifically targets older carers. I refer you to my answer to AQW 39997/11-15, for detail on other ongoing awareness campaigns by individual HSC Trust.\n\nHSC Trust Carer Co-ordinators have been in post since 2008 and drive the policy on support for carers of all ages. Carer Co-ordinators act as the main point of contact for those identified carers availing or looking to avail of the assessment process.","answerHtml":"As I have previously advised, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts undertake a high level engagement process across all Programmes of Care (POC) to identify as many ‘hidden’ carers as possible. As part of this engagement process, HSC Trusts support and promote a range of public awareness campaigns, including the Carers Trust ‘Mind the Gap’ project, which specifically targets older carers. I refer you to my answer to AQW 39997/11-15, for detail on other ongoing awareness campaigns by individual HSC Trust.
HSC Trust Carer Co-ordinators have been in post since 2008 and drive the policy on support for carers of all ages. Carer Co-ordinators act as the main point of contact for those identified carers availing or looking to avail of the assessment process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040655%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219581","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219581"}},{"id":"219579","reference":"AQW 40653/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-13","answerBy":"2015-01-28","answered":"2015-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 39997/11-15, to detail specific public awareness campaigns by his Department to ensure that older people who fit the criteria of carer are identified.","answerText":"As I have previously advised, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts undertake a high level engagement process across all Programmes of Care (POC) to identify as many ‘hidden’ carers as possible. As part of this engagement process, HSC Trusts support and promote a range of public awareness campaigns, including the Carers Trust ‘Mind the Gap’ project, which specifically targets older carers. I refer you to my answer to AQW 39997/11-15, for detail on other ongoing awareness campaigns by individual HSC Trust.\n\nHSC Trust Carer Co-ordinators have been in post since 2008 and drive the policy on support for carers of all ages. Carer Co-ordinators act as the main point of contact for those identified carers availing or looking to avail of the assessment process.","answerHtml":"As I have previously advised, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts undertake a high level engagement process across all Programmes of Care (POC) to identify as many ‘hidden’ carers as possible. As part of this engagement process, HSC Trusts support and promote a range of public awareness campaigns, including the Carers Trust ‘Mind the Gap’ project, which specifically targets older carers. I refer you to my answer to AQW 39997/11-15, for detail on other ongoing awareness campaigns by individual HSC Trust.
HSC Trust Carer Co-ordinators have been in post since 2008 and drive the policy on support for carers of all ages. Carer Co-ordinators act as the main point of contact for those identified carers availing or looking to avail of the assessment process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040653%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219579","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219579"}},{"id":"219578","reference":"AQW 40652/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-13","answerBy":"2015-01-28","answered":"2015-02-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the projects in East Londonderry which will benefit from the additional resources and capital funding received by her Department in the October monitoring round.","answerText":"The attached table lists projects in your constituency where funding is confirmed or has already been provided from the additional allocations. It is possible that further projects may be funded: if so, these will be announced in due course.\n\nProjects in East Londonderry benefiting from the additional resource and capital funding received by the Department in the October monitoring round 14/15.\n\nFunded Entity\tProject Name / Description of Funding\tAmount Allocated(£)\tCapital / Resource\nStendhal Festival Ltd\tStendhal Festival – Outreach Programme\t30,000\tResource\nLimavady Borough Council\tLimavady Cultural\nProgramme\t20,000\tResource\nColeraine Borough Council\tWOMAD Coleraine 'Culture of Peace' Legacy Programme\t20,000\tResource\nColeraine Borough Council\tNorth Coast Sports Village\t1,262,000\tCapital","answerHtml":"The attached table lists projects in your constituency where funding is confirmed or has already been provided from the additional allocations. It is possible that further projects may be funded: if so, these will be announced in due course.
Projects in East Londonderry benefiting from the additional resource and capital funding received by the Department in the October monitoring round 14/15.
| Funded Entity | Project Name / Description of Funding | Amount Allocated(£) | Capital / Resource |
| Stendhal Festival Ltd | Stendhal Festival – Outreach Programme | 30,000 | Resource |
| Limavady Borough Council | Limavady Cultural Programme | 20,000 | Resource |
| Coleraine Borough Council | WOMAD Coleraine 'Culture of Peace' Legacy Programme | 20,000 | Resource |
| Coleraine Borough Council | North Coast Sports Village | 1,262,000 | Capital |
The outline business case for the Redevelopment of Magilligan Project was approved by DFP on 9 January 2015 and progress is dependent on securing the capital funding necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040651%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219577","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219577"}},{"id":"219418","reference":"AQW 40574/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-12","answerBy":"2015-01-27","answered":"2015-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the rationale behind the proposed removal of the remaining Community Relations, Equality and Diversity funding for education by his Department.","answerText":"The proposal to end earmarked Community Relations, Equality and Diversity (CRED) funding is a direct consequence of the challenging budget reduction faced by my Department, in which I have sought to protect front line services.\n\nAmongst the mitigating factors which I have taken into account as to the impact of the ending of CRED funding is the introduction of a £25m Shared Education Signature Project which seeks to improve educational (including reconciliation) outcomes.\n\nI am currently considering responses to the budget proposal consultation which ended on 29th December 2014 prior to finalising the 2015/16 budget.","answerHtml":"The proposal to end earmarked Community Relations, Equality and Diversity (CRED) funding is a direct consequence of the challenging budget reduction faced by my Department, in which I have sought to protect front line services.
Amongst the mitigating factors which I have taken into account as to the impact of the ending of CRED funding is the introduction of a £25m Shared Education Signature Project which seeks to improve educational (including reconciliation) outcomes.
I am currently considering responses to the budget proposal consultation which ended on 29th December 2014 prior to finalising the 2015/16 budget.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040574%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219418","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219418"}},{"id":"219416","reference":"AQW 40573/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-12","answerBy":"2015-01-27","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to list the applications to the Social Investment Fund, from within the Northern Zone; and for an update on the status of these applications.","answerText":"Six projects are being taken forward in the Northern Zone.\n\nTwo (Coleraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN) and Fuel Poverty) had funding committed in 2014 and CRUN has contractors on site.\n\nTwo (Community Capacity Hubs and Employment through Education) as announced on 20 January 2015 will have letters of offer issued shortly.\n\nTwo (Capacity for Health and Access to Employment and Health) are currently going through the internal approvals process.","answerHtml":"Six projects are being taken forward in the Northern Zone.
Two (Coleraine Rural and Urban Network (CRUN) and Fuel Poverty) had funding committed in 2014 and CRUN has contractors on site.
Two (Community Capacity Hubs and Employment through Education) as announced on 20 January 2015 will have letters of offer issued shortly.
Two (Capacity for Health and Access to Employment and Health) are currently going through the internal approvals process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040573%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219416","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219416"}},{"id":"219410","reference":"AQW 40568/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-12","answerBy":"2015-01-27","answered":"2015-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether people applying to the Social Investment Fund have been notified of applications which have been unsuccessful; and if so, to detail how applicants were notified.","answerText":"In keeping with the community based ethos of the Social Investment Fund, Zonal Steering Groups made the final decisions on projects selected for their Area Plans. Individuals or groups involved with concepts which did not make it into Area Plans were advised at the time. The Area Plans were submitted in February 2013.\n\nWhen the Zonal allocations were subsequently announced the Steering Groups were asked to prioritise their Area Plan projects within their assigned Zonal budget. This process was completed by November 2013 and the Steering Groups should have informed those involved of the decisions. If anyone is still in doubt, they should contact their Zone’s Steering Group directly. Contact details for Steering Groups can be found on the NI Direct website.","answerHtml":"In keeping with the community based ethos of the Social Investment Fund, Zonal Steering Groups made the final decisions on projects selected for their Area Plans. Individuals or groups involved with concepts which did not make it into Area Plans were advised at the time. The Area Plans were submitted in February 2013.
When the Zonal allocations were subsequently announced the Steering Groups were asked to prioritise their Area Plan projects within their assigned Zonal budget. This process was completed by November 2013 and the Steering Groups should have informed those involved of the decisions. If anyone is still in doubt, they should contact their Zone’s Steering Group directly. Contact details for Steering Groups can be found on the NI Direct website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040568%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219410","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219410"}},{"id":"219406","reference":"AQW 40564/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-12","answerBy":"2015-01-27","answered":"2015-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the success of her Department's policies to address the needs of ethnic minority groups in rural areas.","answerText":"Whilst ethnic minority groups are employed across the whole economy of the north of Ireland, large numbers have secured gainful employment in the agri-food sector and continue to make a positive contribution both in economic and social terms to the fabric of our society. My Department supports these groups through sponsorship of the Agricultural Wages Board (AWB) and funding of Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA) enforcement activity. The AWB sets the rate of pay and some other conditions of employment for all agricultural workers, including ethnic minorities, which are published in Polish, Portuguese and Russian. In addition, the GLA operates a Britain and north of Ireland-wide licensing scheme for gangmasters (labour providers) with the primary objective of curbing the activities of those gangmasters who exploit their workers and/or act illegally, including ethnic minority workers.\n\nAs well as this specific support for workers an overarching budget of up to £623 million has been agreed with the Executive for the 2014-2020 Rural Development Programme. Up to £80m of this has been allocated to support a range of schemes that will help to develop the economic development of our rural areas. Support will be provided to improve or maintain the living conditions and welfare of those living in rural areas. An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out on the Programme to ensure that it is as inclusive as possible to all rural dwellers including those from ethnic minority groups.\n\nIn addition, under my department’s Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Inclusion Framework, a budget of around £20m from 2011-2016 is in place to support a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of all vulnerable rural dwellers, including those from ethnic minorities.","answerHtml":"Whilst ethnic minority groups are employed across the whole economy of the north of Ireland, large numbers have secured gainful employment in the agri-food sector and continue to make a positive contribution both in economic and social terms to the fabric of our society. My Department supports these groups through sponsorship of the Agricultural Wages Board (AWB) and funding of Gangmasters Licensing Authority (GLA) enforcement activity. The AWB sets the rate of pay and some other conditions of employment for all agricultural workers, including ethnic minorities, which are published in Polish, Portuguese and Russian. In addition, the GLA operates a Britain and north of Ireland-wide licensing scheme for gangmasters (labour providers) with the primary objective of curbing the activities of those gangmasters who exploit their workers and/or act illegally, including ethnic minority workers.
As well as this specific support for workers an overarching budget of up to £623 million has been agreed with the Executive for the 2014-2020 Rural Development Programme. Up to £80m of this has been allocated to support a range of schemes that will help to develop the economic development of our rural areas. Support will be provided to improve or maintain the living conditions and welfare of those living in rural areas. An Equality Impact Assessment has been carried out on the Programme to ensure that it is as inclusive as possible to all rural dwellers including those from ethnic minority groups.
In addition, under my department’s Tackling Rural Poverty and Social Inclusion Framework, a budget of around £20m from 2011-2016 is in place to support a wide range of initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of all vulnerable rural dwellers, including those from ethnic minorities.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040564%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219406","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219406"}},{"id":"219405","reference":"AQW 40563/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-12","answerBy":"2015-01-27","answered":"2015-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of jobs created in (i) 2012/13; and (ii) 2013/14; and of this number, how many were part-time positions.","answerText":"Support offered by Invest NI has helped to create (i) 6,194 new jobs in 2012-13 and (ii) 6,785 new jobs in 2013-14.\n\nInvest NI offers of support towards job creation projects are calculated on a full-time equivalent basis therefore our systems do not hold the information requested.\n\nInvest NI continues to promote new jobs across Northern Ireland with recent support in East Londonderry for S.J.C. Hutchinson (Engineering) Limited to promote 36 new jobs and Ballyrashane Co-Operative Agricultural and Dairy Society Limited to promote 20 new jobs.","answerHtml":"Support offered by Invest NI has helped to create (i) 6,194 new jobs in 2012-13 and (ii) 6,785 new jobs in 2013-14.
Invest NI offers of support towards job creation projects are calculated on a full-time equivalent basis therefore our systems do not hold the information requested.
Invest NI continues to promote new jobs across Northern Ireland with recent support in East Londonderry for S.J.C. Hutchinson (Engineering) Limited to promote 36 new jobs and Ballyrashane Co-Operative Agricultural and Dairy Society Limited to promote 20 new jobs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040563%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219405","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219405"}},{"id":"219242","reference":"AQW 40499/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-09","answerBy":"2015-01-26","answered":"2015-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the Collaboration and Innovation Fund to support young people who are not in employment, education or training; and what plans he has to continue this Fund post March 2015.","answerText":"The Collaboration and Innovation Fund has achieved a number of key objectives. An evaluation of the programme which is close to completion indicates that the initiatives and activities adopted have been successful in identifying and working with marginalised and disadvantaged groups of young people who are not in employment, education or training. This has contributed to the number of young people in this category dropping from 1 in 5 to 1 in 7 in Northern Ireland according to the latest Labour Force Survey figures.\n\nThe programme has been effective in fostering a more collaborative and innovative approach that has enabled organisations to learn from each other, share good\n\npractices and establish what works best. Working together or working with partners has contributed to a more effective service and supported many young people who do not avail of mainstream education and training.\n\nThe programme has reinforced the use of evidence-based approaches around the action planning process, design of mentoring, joint working between agencies, and the forms of wider support being delivered. Mentoring in particular has proved very effective in providing support to the most disengaged young people who are experiencing extreme difficulties in their lives.\n\nI am pleased with the outcomes achieved under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund which has provided support to over 5,200 young people to date. In addition to the positive outcomes into employment, education and training, projects report many cases where the programme has improved the motivation, confidence and social skills of participants and helped to move them closer to the labour market.\n\nWhile the Collaboration and Innovation Fund programme will cease at the end of March 2015, as this was a DFP ring-fenced budget to explore new approaches to address the barriers experienced by young people not in employment, education or training (NEET), my Department will continue to support those young people. I have introduced a new investment priority under the European Social Fund (ESF) aimed at achieving sustainable integration of young people into the labour market with particular emphasis on those young people who are at risk of social exclusion or from marginalised communities. Meeting the specific needs of these young people will be a priority for my Department with a particular focus on increasing employability\n\nThe new provision will draw upon the good practices tested under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund and reflected in the current evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy. I am confident that this approach will provide the training and support required to address the barriers experienced by this group.","answerHtml":"The Collaboration and Innovation Fund has achieved a number of key objectives. An evaluation of the programme which is close to completion indicates that the initiatives and activities adopted have been successful in identifying and working with marginalised and disadvantaged groups of young people who are not in employment, education or training. This has contributed to the number of young people in this category dropping from 1 in 5 to 1 in 7 in Northern Ireland according to the latest Labour Force Survey figures.
The programme has been effective in fostering a more collaborative and innovative approach that has enabled organisations to learn from each other, share good
practices and establish what works best. Working together or working with partners has contributed to a more effective service and supported many young people who do not avail of mainstream education and training.
The programme has reinforced the use of evidence-based approaches around the action planning process, design of mentoring, joint working between agencies, and the forms of wider support being delivered. Mentoring in particular has proved very effective in providing support to the most disengaged young people who are experiencing extreme difficulties in their lives.
I am pleased with the outcomes achieved under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund which has provided support to over 5,200 young people to date. In addition to the positive outcomes into employment, education and training, projects report many cases where the programme has improved the motivation, confidence and social skills of participants and helped to move them closer to the labour market.
While the Collaboration and Innovation Fund programme will cease at the end of March 2015, as this was a DFP ring-fenced budget to explore new approaches to address the barriers experienced by young people not in employment, education or training (NEET), my Department will continue to support those young people. I have introduced a new investment priority under the European Social Fund (ESF) aimed at achieving sustainable integration of young people into the labour market with particular emphasis on those young people who are at risk of social exclusion or from marginalised communities. Meeting the specific needs of these young people will be a priority for my Department with a particular focus on increasing employability
The new provision will draw upon the good practices tested under the Collaboration and Innovation Fund and reflected in the current evaluation of the Pathways to Success Strategy. I am confident that this approach will provide the training and support required to address the barriers experienced by this group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040499%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219242","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219242"}},{"id":"219239","reference":"AQW 40497/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-09","answerBy":"2015-01-26","answered":"2015-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 40166/11-15, for his assessment of the Food Engineering Apprenticeship Programme delivered in Southern Regional College; and whether he has plans to introduce this programme in Northern and North Western Regional colleges to promote the food and drink industries in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Department established a Future Skills Action Group for the Food and Drink Manufacturing and Processing sector in 2011 to help the industry identify and address the skills issues it faces.\n\nThe Group consists of a wide range of members from government, local employers and further and higher education providers who work collaboratively to develop and pilot interventions to ensure employers are getting people with the skills they need to grow this economically important sector.\n\nOne such intervention is the Food Engineering Apprenticeship which is currently being delivered by Southern Regional College. This initiative started as a Northern Ireland wide ‘pilot’ in January 2014 and will see seven apprentices acquire both Level 2 and Level 3 accreditation in Engineering. Southern Regional College were instrumental in working with employers to develop the frameworks. Feedback to date on this programme has been very positive.\n\nThis apprenticeship is a four year programme and it is planned to hold an interim review on its progress mid way through the programme. To date there has been no demand in the North and North West. If there was evidence of demand the Department could work with the colleges and local industry to extend the programme.","answerHtml":"The Department established a Future Skills Action Group for the Food and Drink Manufacturing and Processing sector in 2011 to help the industry identify and address the skills issues it faces.
The Group consists of a wide range of members from government, local employers and further and higher education providers who work collaboratively to develop and pilot interventions to ensure employers are getting people with the skills they need to grow this economically important sector.
One such intervention is the Food Engineering Apprenticeship which is currently being delivered by Southern Regional College. This initiative started as a Northern Ireland wide ‘pilot’ in January 2014 and will see seven apprentices acquire both Level 2 and Level 3 accreditation in Engineering. Southern Regional College were instrumental in working with employers to develop the frameworks. Feedback to date on this programme has been very positive.
This apprenticeship is a four year programme and it is planned to hold an interim review on its progress mid way through the programme. To date there has been no demand in the North and North West. If there was evidence of demand the Department could work with the colleges and local industry to extend the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040497%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219239","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219239"}},{"id":"219235","reference":"AQW 40494/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-09","answerBy":"2015-01-26","answered":"2015-01-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQW 39802/11-15, of the number of staff who requested an illustration of entitlements under the Northern Ireland Civil Service Administrative Assistant and Administrative Officer Voluntary Exit Scheme, how many submitted a formal application to leave under the terms of the Scheme.","answerText":"A total of 783 eligible staff registered an interest in receiving an illustration of entitlements under the Scheme. The closing date for these staff to submit a formal application to exit under the terms of the Scheme was Wednesday 7 January 2015.\n\nThe number of eligible staff who submitted a formal application to exit was 223.","answerHtml":"A total of 783 eligible staff registered an interest in receiving an illustration of entitlements under the Scheme. The closing date for these staff to submit a formal application to exit under the terms of the Scheme was Wednesday 7 January 2015.
The number of eligible staff who submitted a formal application to exit was 223.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040494%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219235","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219235"}},{"id":"219234","reference":"AQW 40493/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-09","answerBy":"2015-01-26","answered":"2015-01-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of hubs, and associated projects, in East Londonderry, as part of the Delivering Social Change Early Intervention Transformation Programme.","answerText":"Family Support Hubs have not been developed under the Early Intervention Transformation Programme (EITP). They are supported under a separate Delivering Social Change Signature Programme. While not developed under the EITP they will be integral to it. In addition, under Workstream Two of the EITP, an Early Intervention Service aligned to Family Support Hubs will be established, which will provide one-to-one evidence-based support through a consistent regional model. It is important to note that Family Support Hubs are not organised on the basis of Parliamentary constituencies. Constituents within East Londonderry are served by four Family Support Hubs as follows:\n\nThe Waterside Family Support Hub co-ordinated at the Ebrington Centre covers the Claudy Ward of the East Londonderry constituency;\n\nThe Strabane Family Support Hub based at the Strabane Family Centre covers the Banagher Ward;\n\nThe Dry Arch Family Support Hub, based in Dungiven, covers Gresteel, Ballykelly, Glack, Dungiven, Magilligan, Roeside, Greystone, Aghanloo, Forest, Upper Glenshane, Feeny, the Highlands, Enagh, Coolesan and Rathbrady; and\n\nThe Coleraine, Ballymoney and Moyle Family Support Hub, based in Antrim, serves the Wards of Castlerock, Strand, Portstewart, Atlantic, Hopefield, Royal Portrush, Dundooan, Dunluce, Agivey, Kilrea, Garvagh, Ringsend, Macosquin, University, Ballysally, Cross Glebe, Central, Mountsandel, Knocklynn, The Cuts, Churchland, and Waterside.","answerHtml":"Family Support Hubs have not been developed under the Early Intervention Transformation Programme (EITP). They are supported under a separate Delivering Social Change Signature Programme. While not developed under the EITP they will be integral to it. In addition, under Workstream Two of the EITP, an Early Intervention Service aligned to Family Support Hubs will be established, which will provide one-to-one evidence-based support through a consistent regional model. It is important to note that Family Support Hubs are not organised on the basis of Parliamentary constituencies. Constituents within East Londonderry are served by four Family Support Hubs as follows:
The Waterside Family Support Hub co-ordinated at the Ebrington Centre covers the Claudy Ward of the East Londonderry constituency;
The Strabane Family Support Hub based at the Strabane Family Centre covers the Banagher Ward;
The Dry Arch Family Support Hub, based in Dungiven, covers Gresteel, Ballykelly, Glack, Dungiven, Magilligan, Roeside, Greystone, Aghanloo, Forest, Upper Glenshane, Feeny, the Highlands, Enagh, Coolesan and Rathbrady; and
The Coleraine, Ballymoney and Moyle Family Support Hub, based in Antrim, serves the Wards of Castlerock, Strand, Portstewart, Atlantic, Hopefield, Royal Portrush, Dundooan, Dunluce, Agivey, Kilrea, Garvagh, Ringsend, Macosquin, University, Ballysally, Cross Glebe, Central, Mountsandel, Knocklynn, The Cuts, Churchland, and Waterside.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040493%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219234","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219234"}},{"id":"219232","reference":"AQW 40491/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-09","answerBy":"2015-01-26","answered":"2015-02-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the six Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes are addressing the needs of young people who are engaged in cycles of anti-social behaviour.","answerText":"Delivering Social Change is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits that deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages. Within the programme there is a particular focus on improving children and young people’s health, well being and life opportunities, and breaking the long-term cycle of multi-generational problems.\n\nThe initial six Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes are part of this process, and their social benefits are multi-faceted. All of these Signature Programmes will inevitably either help prevent, or address head on, anti-social behaviours in children and young people, and their families.\n\nA range of holistic interventions are being provided under these Signature Programmes to encourage re-engagement in education, training or employment and enhance prospects to become full participants in society. These include a series of mentoring, counselling and psycho-education support for those children, young people and families directly experiencing anti-social behaviours.","answerHtml":"Delivering Social Change is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits that deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages. Within the programme there is a particular focus on improving children and young people’s health, well being and life opportunities, and breaking the long-term cycle of multi-generational problems.
The initial six Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes are part of this process, and their social benefits are multi-faceted. All of these Signature Programmes will inevitably either help prevent, or address head on, anti-social behaviours in children and young people, and their families.
A range of holistic interventions are being provided under these Signature Programmes to encourage re-engagement in education, training or employment and enhance prospects to become full participants in society. These include a series of mentoring, counselling and psycho-education support for those children, young people and families directly experiencing anti-social behaviours.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040491%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219232","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219232"}},{"id":"219162","reference":"AQW 40453/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-08","answerBy":"2015-01-23","answered":"2015-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on plans within his Department to carry out a review of the skills needs of the tourism sector.","answerText":"My Department is in discussions with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board about the need to scope out the skills challenges facing the local tourism industry. These discussions are in the very early stages and I hope to be able to update you further in due course.\n\nThere is already a number of ways in which the Department for Employment and Learning supports the local tourism industry. For a number of years my Department has offered WorldHost training to build on the customer service skills of the people working in our hospitality and tourism industry.\n\nTo date, approximately 15,500 employees have received this training. In addition, our Further Education College network offers a range of courses in support of this sector with more than 8,600 enrolments in 2013/14.","answerHtml":"My Department is in discussions with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment and the Northern Ireland Tourist Board about the need to scope out the skills challenges facing the local tourism industry. These discussions are in the very early stages and I hope to be able to update you further in due course.
There is already a number of ways in which the Department for Employment and Learning supports the local tourism industry. For a number of years my Department has offered WorldHost training to build on the customer service skills of the people working in our hospitality and tourism industry.
To date, approximately 15,500 employees have received this training. In addition, our Further Education College network offers a range of courses in support of this sector with more than 8,600 enrolments in 2013/14.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040453%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219162","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219162"}},{"id":"219161","reference":"AQW 40452/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-08","answerBy":"2015-01-23","answered":"2015-05-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel what communication his Department has had with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation regarding VAT rates; and whether he has plans to raise the issue of a separate VAT rate for the Northern Ireland tourism/hospitality sector with HM Treasury.","answerText":"I understand AQW 40452/11-15 was posed to my predecessor, and I will now answer this question in my capacity as Finance Minister in conjunction with AQW 45655/11-15.\n\nWhile I have not had any communication with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, they have raised the issue of a reduced VAT rate for tourism and hospitality products and services with me in my previous Ministerial role.\n\nEU law largely prohibits a regional variation in VAT rates, and as such, any reduction would need to be applied across the UK. That said, I firmly believe that such a measure would be hugely beneficial, not only for the Northern Ireland tourism industry, but for that of the UK as a whole. This is a matter my predecessor raised as recently as February this year with the then Financial Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke MP where he urged the Treasury to consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response, the Financial Secretary rejected the call for such a reduction citing the cost to the Exchequer.\n\nI will continue to press the case for such a VAT reduction and I intend writing again to Mr Gauke following his re-appointment as Financial Secretary in the new Government.","answerHtml":"I understand AQW 40452/11-15 was posed to my predecessor, and I will now answer this question in my capacity as Finance Minister in conjunction with AQW 45655/11-15.
While I have not had any communication with the Northern Ireland Hotels Federation, they have raised the issue of a reduced VAT rate for tourism and hospitality products and services with me in my previous Ministerial role.
EU law largely prohibits a regional variation in VAT rates, and as such, any reduction would need to be applied across the UK. That said, I firmly believe that such a measure would be hugely beneficial, not only for the Northern Ireland tourism industry, but for that of the UK as a whole. This is a matter my predecessor raised as recently as February this year with the then Financial Secretary to the Treasury, David Gauke MP where he urged the Treasury to consider how a reduced rate of VAT could be used and targeted to improve the competitiveness of the UK tourism industry. In his response, the Financial Secretary rejected the call for such a reduction citing the cost to the Exchequer.
I will continue to press the case for such a VAT reduction and I intend writing again to Mr Gauke following his re-appointment as Financial Secretary in the new Government.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040452%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219161"}},{"id":"219158","reference":"AQW 40450/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-08","answerBy":"2015-01-23","answered":"2015-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning (i) how WorldHost customer service training programmes are being promoted to businesses in the tourism, hospitality, trade and retail sectors; and (ii) how many businesses are currently engaged in these programmes.","answerText":"These programmes are primarily promoted by NITB (Northern Ireland Tourist Board) and People 1st who have the UK licence for World Host. Promotion of programmes includes via their websites, social media, conferences, road shows, local council and tourism groups partnerships, sector employer groups and by the licensed World Host trainers who promote and deliver the actual training. The World Host programmes are also promoted by my Department’s Skills Solutions Service when engaging with employers across the sectors, with a World Host section on the Departmental website.\n\nTo date, approximately 2000 businesses across Northern Ireland have participated in World Host.","answerHtml":"These programmes are primarily promoted by NITB (Northern Ireland Tourist Board) and People 1st who have the UK licence for World Host. Promotion of programmes includes via their websites, social media, conferences, road shows, local council and tourism groups partnerships, sector employer groups and by the licensed World Host trainers who promote and deliver the actual training. The World Host programmes are also promoted by my Department’s Skills Solutions Service when engaging with employers across the sectors, with a World Host section on the Departmental website.
To date, approximately 2000 businesses across Northern Ireland have participated in World Host.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040450%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219158","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219158"}},{"id":"219157","reference":"AQW 40449/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-08","answerBy":"2015-01-23","answered":"2015-01-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the plans to publish an updated Strategy for Tourism; and how an enforced strategy will contribute to continued growth in this sector.","answerText":"I commissioned an independent review of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and wider tourism structures in 2014 and plan to make a statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly on the outcome of that Review on 20 January. A key recommendation from the review was that the Northern Ireland Executive should publish an updated Strategy for Tourism at an early date.\n\nThe Hunter Review indicates that a new strategy would aid the development of collaborative partnerships across the industry, in government and beyond, which are the building blocks for future progress. An updated overarching tourism strategy would help tourism partners to work together and understand their role in the achievement of common goals and in the realisation of important synergies. A new strategy would set stretching targets and identify key priorities for action taking account of the emergence of new developments, initiatives and trends in tourism.\n\nContinued growth in tourism is vital to the rebalancing of the local economy and I will ensure that the necessary action is taken to deliver on my and the industry’s aspiration to make tourism a £1billion industry by 2020.","answerHtml":"I commissioned an independent review of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and wider tourism structures in 2014 and plan to make a statement to the Northern Ireland Assembly on the outcome of that Review on 20 January. A key recommendation from the review was that the Northern Ireland Executive should publish an updated Strategy for Tourism at an early date.
The Hunter Review indicates that a new strategy would aid the development of collaborative partnerships across the industry, in government and beyond, which are the building blocks for future progress. An updated overarching tourism strategy would help tourism partners to work together and understand their role in the achievement of common goals and in the realisation of important synergies. A new strategy would set stretching targets and identify key priorities for action taking account of the emergence of new developments, initiatives and trends in tourism.
Continued growth in tourism is vital to the rebalancing of the local economy and I will ensure that the necessary action is taken to deliver on my and the industry’s aspiration to make tourism a £1billion industry by 2020.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040449%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219157","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219157"}},{"id":"219117","reference":"AQO 7364/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-08","answerBy":"2015-01-20","answered":"2015-01-20","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on how her Department is working to ensure that the infrastructural changes required to stage the Open Championship at Royal Portrush in 2019 are approved and completed.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"The Royal and Ancient (R&A) announced on Monday 16 June 2014 that Royal Portrush Golf Club had been invited to join the rota to host the Open Championship. It is hoped that the first event will be hosted as early as 2019, however, that is still to be confirmed by the Royal and Ancient and Royal Portrush Golf Club. It is subject to securing planning approvals for course improvements and completion of the works. The full planning application for the required course improvements was submitted to DOE Planning Service at the beginning of December 2014 and is currently progressing through the consultation and approval process. Once approval is secured, it is hoped that works will commence on site later this year."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for her response. Can she outline what consultation she has had with the R&A to ensure that the golfing world and others are satisfied with what the north coast has to offer?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"That was very much part of our preliminary conversations before they announced that they would come to Royal Portrush. The fact that we were able to host the Irish Open at Royal Portrush back in 2012 gave them a great degree of confidence that we were going to be able to deliver on the promises that we were making for the Open. A number of planning issues need to be sorted out over the next period of time. I am confident that we will move those forward. As I said, the planning application just went in at the beginning of December, so there is a little bit of time, but, hopefully, the new council and the planning authorities will look on the application sympathetically because it will be a tremendous opportunity if we can bring the Open to Northern Ireland in 2019."},{"speaker":"Mr G Robinson","text":"There has been much talk in the media about hotel development on the north coast. Is it essential for further hotels to be developed on the north coast in order to have the Open come to Portrush in 2019?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"Obviously, I would like to see more hotel facilities put in place on the north coast. There are gaps in the five-star market in that area. As the House will be fully aware, the Runkerry development had received planning permission, but the estate and the grounds that were earmarked for that application have now been sold by the Macnaghten estate to Dr Peter FitzGerald. The land that the Runkerry development was to be developed on is now part of Dr FitzGerald's portfolio. Therefore, it is uncertain what will happen to that particular application, but I hope that others will look at the opportunities in and around the Open coming to Royal Portrush and whether they can develop hotel facilities there as well. I do not think that it will damage our ability to host the Open one iota, because people who attend these events are well used to travelling. Indeed, when many of them go to other courses, they have to travel for over an hour to get from their accommodation to the event. So, I do not think that not having a hotel there will damage that particular event. Notwithstanding that, obviously I would like to see more development of hotels in and around the north coast."},{"speaker":"Mr Nesbitt","text":"I want to follow on from the Minister's last answer on comparative travel times. In terms of comparative economic impacts, she will be aware that, when the Irish Open was at Portrush, some felt a little disappointment that spectators maybe did not spend as much time and money in town as traders might have hoped they would. Can she compare the economic impact of the Irish Open at Portrush with, for example, the last Open at Royal Liverpool or, indeed, the last Irish Open at Fota Island in County Cork?"},{"speaker":"Mrs Foster","text":"The issue of people not being able to get out and integrate with the town and the surrounding area has now been addressed by the European Tour; it is now saying that, if people want to leave the course and come back, they can. I very much welcome that the issue has been resolved. I regret that people were not able to leave Royal Portrush, go into Portrush and return; they had to stay on the course. That has now been sorted out; therefore, it will have more of an impact when we have the Irish Open at Royal County Down, which we are very much looking forward to hosting this year and, of course, in Enniskillen in 2017."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207364%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219117","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-01-20&docID=219669#AQO%207364/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219117"}},{"id":"219008","reference":"AQW 40393/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-07","answerBy":"2015-01-22","answered":"2015-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether it is compulsory for public transport drivers to undertake Disability Awareness Training in respect of service users who are visually impaired.","answerText":"Translink has confirmed that it continues to provide disability awareness training, which covers all forms of disability, to its driving staff as part of their induction process. Equality and diversity issues are also routinely covered in training modules to enable bus drivers to attain the Certificate of Professional Competence which is compulsory for all drivers.\n\nAll other customer-facing staff such as Conductors, station staff, customer service co-ordinators and Translink Rail Services staff also receive regular training in these areas and all Translink staff are bound by the company’s Dignity at Work and Equal Opportunity policies.\n\nOther transport providers such as the Rural Community Transport Partnerships and Disability Action which are funded by my Department have confirmed that they have provided disability awareness and equality training to all front line staff. Particular issues pertaining to the difficulties experienced by service users with visual impairment are included within this training.","answerHtml":"Translink has confirmed that it continues to provide disability awareness training, which covers all forms of disability, to its driving staff as part of their induction process. Equality and diversity issues are also routinely covered in training modules to enable bus drivers to attain the Certificate of Professional Competence which is compulsory for all drivers.
All other customer-facing staff such as Conductors, station staff, customer service co-ordinators and Translink Rail Services staff also receive regular training in these areas and all Translink staff are bound by the company’s Dignity at Work and Equal Opportunity policies.
Other transport providers such as the Rural Community Transport Partnerships and Disability Action which are funded by my Department have confirmed that they have provided disability awareness and equality training to all front line staff. Particular issues pertaining to the difficulties experienced by service users with visual impairment are included within this training.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040393%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219008","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219008"}},{"id":"219007","reference":"AQW 40392/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-07","answerBy":"2015-01-22","answered":"2015-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what communication his Department has had with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to ensure that the provision of services for people with visual impairments are protected.","answerText":"My Department has not had any engagement with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) dealing specifically with transport services for people with a visual impairment. I have, however, written to Executive colleagues asking them to outline their responsibilities in relation to transport and transport funding with a view to identifying those Government Departments that should sit on an inter-departmental steering group to shape the public consultation document for a new Accessible Transport Strategy. DHSSPS has indicated that it wants to participate in this steering group. The proposed Accessible Transport Strategy will take account of transport issues that impact on a range of users, including older people and people with disabilities. This will include people with visual impairments. I am also pleased to confirm that my Department, in conjunction with Translink and Guide Dogs, is currently planning the initial phase of the implementation of Audio Visual systems on the Metro bus network, including on all buses and at key bus stops. This project will commence in early 2015.","answerHtml":"My Department has not had any engagement with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) dealing specifically with transport services for people with a visual impairment. I have, however, written to Executive colleagues asking them to outline their responsibilities in relation to transport and transport funding with a view to identifying those Government Departments that should sit on an inter-departmental steering group to shape the public consultation document for a new Accessible Transport Strategy. DHSSPS has indicated that it wants to participate in this steering group. The proposed Accessible Transport Strategy will take account of transport issues that impact on a range of users, including older people and people with disabilities. This will include people with visual impairments. I am also pleased to confirm that my Department, in conjunction with Translink and Guide Dogs, is currently planning the initial phase of the implementation of Audio Visual systems on the Metro bus network, including on all buses and at key bus stops. This project will commence in early 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040392%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219007","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219007"}},{"id":"219006","reference":"AQW 40391/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-07","answerBy":"2015-01-22","answered":"2015-01-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what transport provision exists for people with visual impairment; and how cuts to his Department’s budget will impact on this provision.","answerText":"I can advise that Translink services are available to all members of the public including those with visual impairments. I understand that making these services as accessible as possible can play a vital role in enabling people with a disability to fully participate in the community. My Department will continue to provide revenue support to Translink and I have been successful in securing additional resource from the Executive which will allow Translink to continue to provide much needed town services.\n\nAdditionally the Disability Action Transport Scheme operated by Disability Action and Dial-A-Lift services provided by Rural Community Transport Partnerships, that my Department also funds, offers specialised public transport options for people with all disabilities including those with visual impairments. It is my intention that my Department continues to support these schemes subject to EU rules and licensing arrangements, next year and in later years.\n\nSpecifically in regard to people with a visual impairment, I announced in October 2014 my Department’s plans to commence the installation of Audio Visual (AV) systems on the Metro bus network in early 2015. The project will involve the installation of AV equipment on 294 Metro buses, including 30 Park and Ride vehicles, and at 191 key bus stops at a total cost of £700k. The Audio Visual (AV) systems will provide all passengers with real time information relating to bus location via a speaking voice and visual display.","answerHtml":"I can advise that Translink services are available to all members of the public including those with visual impairments. I understand that making these services as accessible as possible can play a vital role in enabling people with a disability to fully participate in the community. My Department will continue to provide revenue support to Translink and I have been successful in securing additional resource from the Executive which will allow Translink to continue to provide much needed town services.
Additionally the Disability Action Transport Scheme operated by Disability Action and Dial-A-Lift services provided by Rural Community Transport Partnerships, that my Department also funds, offers specialised public transport options for people with all disabilities including those with visual impairments. It is my intention that my Department continues to support these schemes subject to EU rules and licensing arrangements, next year and in later years.
Specifically in regard to people with a visual impairment, I announced in October 2014 my Department’s plans to commence the installation of Audio Visual (AV) systems on the Metro bus network in early 2015. The project will involve the installation of AV equipment on 294 Metro buses, including 30 Park and Ride vehicles, and at 191 key bus stops at a total cost of £700k. The Audio Visual (AV) systems will provide all passengers with real time information relating to bus location via a speaking voice and visual display.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040391%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219006"}},{"id":"219005","reference":"AQW 40390/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-07","answerBy":"2015-01-22","answered":"2015-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail what support is currently provided through his Department to RNIB Northern Ireland.","answerText":"For the financial year 2014/15 my Department provides funding support to RNIB NI through a core grant of £78,693.","answerHtml":"For the financial year 2014/15 my Department provides funding support to RNIB NI through a core grant of £78,693.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040390%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=219005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=219005"}},{"id":"218789","reference":"AQW 40318/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-06","answerBy":"2015-01-21","answered":"2015-01-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what support the Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme and the Hate Crime Advocacy Service have provided to, or in the vicinity of, the homes of hate crime victims, in the last twelve months.","answerText":"The Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme (HIPA), part funded by the Department of Justice, the PSNI and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, is aimed at providing personal and home protection measures for victims of hate incidents where the incident has occurred at, or in the vicinity of, their home. Examples of such measures include the provision of personal attack alarms; personal, home and vehicle safety advice; securing/replacing doors and windows; graffiti removal; and fitting external bulk lighting with sensors, intercoms to identify callers, secure letter boxes, door viewers and door chains.\n\nFor the period January to December 2014, there have been 63 HIPA applications involving 60 addresses forwarded to the Housing Executive by the PSNI.\n\nThe Hate Crime Advocacy Service, mainly funded by the PSNI and with funding support from the Department of Justice and Northern Ireland Housing Executive, currently support victims of crime during the reporting and pre and post investigative stages of a hate incident or crime. The advocates are a consistent point of contact for victims who wish to engage with them for practical and/or emotional advice and assistance. Practical advice can include the provision of information on the HIPA scheme; housing issues; and support with communicating with the Housing Executive.","answerHtml":"The Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme (HIPA), part funded by the Department of Justice, the PSNI and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive, is aimed at providing personal and home protection measures for victims of hate incidents where the incident has occurred at, or in the vicinity of, their home. Examples of such measures include the provision of personal attack alarms; personal, home and vehicle safety advice; securing/replacing doors and windows; graffiti removal; and fitting external bulk lighting with sensors, intercoms to identify callers, secure letter boxes, door viewers and door chains.
For the period January to December 2014, there have been 63 HIPA applications involving 60 addresses forwarded to the Housing Executive by the PSNI.
The Hate Crime Advocacy Service, mainly funded by the PSNI and with funding support from the Department of Justice and Northern Ireland Housing Executive, currently support victims of crime during the reporting and pre and post investigative stages of a hate incident or crime. The advocates are a consistent point of contact for victims who wish to engage with them for practical and/or emotional advice and assistance. Practical advice can include the provision of information on the HIPA scheme; housing issues; and support with communicating with the Housing Executive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040318%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218789","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218789"}},{"id":"218788","reference":"AQW 40317/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-06","answerBy":"2015-01-21","answered":"2015-01-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the effectiveness of Belfast City Council’s Tension Monitoring Model in addressing hate crime; and whether he plans to introduce similar models to other areas through Policing and Community Safety Partnerships and other structures.","answerText":"The Department of Justice is currently part funding the development of Belfast City Council’s Tension Monitoring Model with a view to promoting its extension to other council areas, through PCSPs, to share learning to address local issues of tension and support building community cohesion.\n\nOriginally planned for completion by end 2015, I understand the project has been extended to end 2016. Belfast City Council held two workshops in 2014 with stakeholders to discuss the outputs expected, and work streams and timelines required, to deliver the project. A plan is in place to deliver project activities such as developing a manual to capture learning and case studies for addressing community tensions; provision of training and consideration of an IT solution to capture data.","answerHtml":"The Department of Justice is currently part funding the development of Belfast City Council’s Tension Monitoring Model with a view to promoting its extension to other council areas, through PCSPs, to share learning to address local issues of tension and support building community cohesion.
Originally planned for completion by end 2015, I understand the project has been extended to end 2016. Belfast City Council held two workshops in 2014 with stakeholders to discuss the outputs expected, and work streams and timelines required, to deliver the project. A plan is in place to deliver project activities such as developing a manual to capture learning and case studies for addressing community tensions; provision of training and consideration of an IT solution to capture data.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040317%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218788","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218788"}},{"id":"218773","reference":"AQW 40306/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-06","answerBy":"2015-01-21","answered":"2015-04-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the Racial Equality Unit is working with community leaders in areas where recent racially motivated attacks have been most prevalent.","answerText":"Racially motivated attacks are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.\n\nTackling hate crime and reducing the harm it causes continues to be a key priority for the Executive.\n\nThe Racial Equality Unit works with groups and community leaders to support communities in welcoming new arrivals and supporting the new arrivals themselves.","answerHtml":"Racially motivated attacks are unacceptable and will not be tolerated.
Tackling hate crime and reducing the harm it causes continues to be a key priority for the Executive.
The Racial Equality Unit works with groups and community leaders to support communities in welcoming new arrivals and supporting the new arrivals themselves.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040306%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218773"}},{"id":"218698","reference":"AQW 40280/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-05","answerBy":"2015-01-20","answered":"2015-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department is working with the Chief Constable to address increasing levels of domestic abuse, and to encourage victims to report crimes of this nature.","answerText":"Recorded incidents of domestic violence and abuse rose by 438 cases in 2013/14, which represents an increase of less than 1%. There was an increase of 1560 domestic violence and abuse crimes, which represents an increase of 14%.\n\nHowever, we recognise that domestic violence is an under-reported crime, and much effort goes into ensuring that victims have the confidence to come forward and report.\n\nThe increase in recorded crimes may be due in part to an increased awareness of the support services available and increased confidence in reporting any incidence of violence and abuse to the relevant authorities and agencies.\n\nMy Department jointly leads on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, along with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. This work is taken forward on a partnership approach across the statutory and voluntary and community sector.\n\nThe PSNI is a key partner both at the strategic and the delivery level and works closely with my officials and the other justice agencies, both on prevention work to increase reporting and ensuring a robust justice response when they do occur.","answerHtml":"Recorded incidents of domestic violence and abuse rose by 438 cases in 2013/14, which represents an increase of less than 1%. There was an increase of 1560 domestic violence and abuse crimes, which represents an increase of 14%.
However, we recognise that domestic violence is an under-reported crime, and much effort goes into ensuring that victims have the confidence to come forward and report.
The increase in recorded crimes may be due in part to an increased awareness of the support services available and increased confidence in reporting any incidence of violence and abuse to the relevant authorities and agencies.
My Department jointly leads on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, along with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. This work is taken forward on a partnership approach across the statutory and voluntary and community sector.
The PSNI is a key partner both at the strategic and the delivery level and works closely with my officials and the other justice agencies, both on prevention work to increase reporting and ensuring a robust justice response when they do occur.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040280%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218698","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218698"}},{"id":"218696","reference":"AQW 40279/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-05","answerBy":"2015-01-20","answered":"2015-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy.","answerText":"A public consultation exercise on the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy launched on 15 January 2014 and officially closed on 11 April 2014. The consultation received 69 responses.\n\nAll 69 consultation responses, as well as a summary Consultation Response Report, were published on the Department’s website on 26 November 2014.\n\nThe Strategy is on course for publication in March 2015.","answerHtml":"A public consultation exercise on the Stopping Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy launched on 15 January 2014 and officially closed on 11 April 2014. The consultation received 69 responses.
All 69 consultation responses, as well as a summary Consultation Response Report, were published on the Department’s website on 26 November 2014.
The Strategy is on course for publication in March 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040279%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218696","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218696"}},{"id":"218692","reference":"AQW 40278/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-05","answerBy":"2015-01-20","answered":"2015-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their assessment of the effectiveness of the current Gender Equality Strategy in addressing gender related violence.","answerText":"The Gender Equality Strategy 2006-2016, for which OFMDFM has overarching responsibility, sets out a framework for departments, their agencies and other relevant statutory authorities to promote gender equality. The GES includes a number of key strategic objectives, including the elimination of gender based violence in our society.\n\nA review of the Gender Equality Strategy and its associated cross departmental Action Plans was completed in November 2013. The Review considered how effectively the Strategy has performed against its nine strategic objectives. The objective which had the most positive response related to the elimination of gender based violence in society, in particular the progress in relation to domestic violence and sexual assault. This included the opening of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre in September 2013, and the ongoing development of the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.\n\nThe Review considered a key action not included in the Strategy centred around eliminating violence between young men.","answerHtml":"The Gender Equality Strategy 2006-2016, for which OFMDFM has overarching responsibility, sets out a framework for departments, their agencies and other relevant statutory authorities to promote gender equality. The GES includes a number of key strategic objectives, including the elimination of gender based violence in our society.
A review of the Gender Equality Strategy and its associated cross departmental Action Plans was completed in November 2013. The Review considered how effectively the Strategy has performed against its nine strategic objectives. The objective which had the most positive response related to the elimination of gender based violence in society, in particular the progress in relation to domestic violence and sexual assault. This included the opening of the Sexual Assault Referral Centre in September 2013, and the ongoing development of the Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse Strategy by the Department of Justice and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety.
The Review considered a key action not included in the Strategy centred around eliminating violence between young men.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040278%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218692","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218692"}},{"id":"218690","reference":"AQW 40277/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-05","answerBy":"2015-01-20","answered":"2015-01-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the increase in reported domestic abuse incidents and crimes.","answerText":"Recorded incidents of domestic violence and abuse rose by 438 cases in 2013/14, which represents an increase of less than 1%. There was an increase of 1560 domestic violence and abuse crimes, which represents an increase of 14%.\n\nHowever, we recognise that domestic violence is an under-reported crime, and much effort goes into ensuring that victims have the confidence to come forward and report.\n\nThe increase in recorded crimes may be due in part to an increased awareness of the support services available and increased confidence in reporting any incidence of violence and abuse to the relevant authorities and agencies.\n\nMy Department jointly leads on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, along with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. This work is taken forward on a partnership approach across the statutory and voluntary and community sector.\n\nThe PSNI is a key partner both at the strategic and the delivery level and works closely with my officials and the other justice agencies, both on prevention work to increase reporting and ensuring a robust justice response when they do occur.","answerHtml":"Recorded incidents of domestic violence and abuse rose by 438 cases in 2013/14, which represents an increase of less than 1%. There was an increase of 1560 domestic violence and abuse crimes, which represents an increase of 14%.
However, we recognise that domestic violence is an under-reported crime, and much effort goes into ensuring that victims have the confidence to come forward and report.
The increase in recorded crimes may be due in part to an increased awareness of the support services available and increased confidence in reporting any incidence of violence and abuse to the relevant authorities and agencies.
My Department jointly leads on Domestic and Sexual Violence and Abuse, along with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety. This work is taken forward on a partnership approach across the statutory and voluntary and community sector.
The PSNI is a key partner both at the strategic and the delivery level and works closely with my officials and the other justice agencies, both on prevention work to increase reporting and ensuring a robust justice response when they do occur.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040277%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218690","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218690"}},{"id":"218689","reference":"AQW 40276/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-05","answerBy":"2015-01-20","answered":"2015-01-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the existing educational programmes which raise awareness of domestic abuse among young people; and whether he plans to introduce further programmes.","answerText":"The Department supports education and awareness-raising through a number of approaches:\n\nDE funds the Women’s Aid Federation for the delivery of the ‘Helping Hands’ programme which addresses challenging issues for children of personal space, safety, planning, and awareness of acceptable and unacceptable behaviours. It supports the aims and objectives of the Primary Curriculum at Key Stages 1 and 2 and is designed for children aged between 8 and 11. Included within this is ‘Social Guardians’ training for primary teachers, allowing them to deliver and support the ‘Helping Hands’ programme.\n\nThe Department also supports schools through the ‘iMatter’ Programme, in promoting resilient emotional health for all pupils by providing advice and support to post-primary aged pupils on issues such as sex abuse, domestic violence and abusive relationships.\n\nMy Department is a contributor to the DHSSPS-led draft Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Strategy Section 2 of the draft contains 4 agreed priorities for Education viz:\n\nTeachers will have the necessary skills to teach about sensitive subjects, including child abuse, domestic and sexual violence.\n\nTeachers will be alert to pupils experiencing distress and trained to respond appropriately.\n\nTeachers will have access to a range of age appropriate and evaluated resources to support the teaching and learning of sensitive subjects and;\n\nQuality assurance arrangements will be established to ensure that the preventative curriculum offered in schools is effective.\n\nThese priorities will largely fulfilled by a project that has been commissioned from the NSPCC to develop an ‘effective preventative education programme’ involving a learning package of training, development and support for schools to implement delivery of ‘keeping safe’ messages to all primary school aged children. The project will involve the development, roll-out and evaluation of a comprehensive Continuing Professional Development package of training, development and ongoing support for school leaders, teaching and nonteaching staff, and parents in the primary school sector.","answerHtml":"The Department supports education and awareness-raising through a number of approaches:
DE funds the Women’s Aid Federation for the delivery of the ‘Helping Hands’ programme which addresses challenging issues for children of personal space, safety, planning, and awareness of acceptable and unacceptable behaviours. It supports the aims and objectives of the Primary Curriculum at Key Stages 1 and 2 and is designed for children aged between 8 and 11. Included within this is ‘Social Guardians’ training for primary teachers, allowing them to deliver and support the ‘Helping Hands’ programme.
The Department also supports schools through the ‘iMatter’ Programme, in promoting resilient emotional health for all pupils by providing advice and support to post-primary aged pupils on issues such as sex abuse, domestic violence and abusive relationships.
My Department is a contributor to the DHSSPS-led draft Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Strategy Section 2 of the draft contains 4 agreed priorities for Education viz:
Teachers will have the necessary skills to teach about sensitive subjects, including child abuse, domestic and sexual violence.
Teachers will be alert to pupils experiencing distress and trained to respond appropriately.
Teachers will have access to a range of age appropriate and evaluated resources to support the teaching and learning of sensitive subjects and;
Quality assurance arrangements will be established to ensure that the preventative curriculum offered in schools is effective.
These priorities will largely fulfilled by a project that has been commissioned from the NSPCC to develop an ‘effective preventative education programme’ involving a learning package of training, development and support for schools to implement delivery of ‘keeping safe’ messages to all primary school aged children. The project will involve the development, roll-out and evaluation of a comprehensive Continuing Professional Development package of training, development and ongoing support for school leaders, teaching and nonteaching staff, and parents in the primary school sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040276%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218689","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218689"}},{"id":"218637","reference":"AQO 7297/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2015-01-05","answerBy":"2015-01-12","answered":"2015-01-12","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development for her assessment of the Farm Management Deposit Scheme, suggested by the Ulster Farmers Union, as a risk management tool against future market volatility.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"The farm management deposit scheme, which operates in Australia, is one of a number of mechanisms that can assist farmers to deal with fluctuations in their annual farm income. The deposit scheme allows farmers to set aside pre-tax income in years of high income and then to draw on these deposits in years of low income, with tax being paid in the year in which the money is withdrawn. This type of system could be beneficial for farmers. However, taxation policy is not a devolved matter and the introduction of such a scheme here is not within my gift. Our own tax system permits farmers to average profits over a two-year period, which allows farmers to spread their tax burden. I would support extending the number of years over which this averaging can take place, but again this is not a devolved matter. Fluctuating markets is not a new problem, but it remains a very difficult issue for farmers. For me, it is one of the reasons why direct payments, such as the single farm payment, are so important to the agricultural industry. These funds provide a regular income stream, the value of which is reasonably well known in advance. I fought hard to maintain the system of direct payments in the recent reform of CAP and will continue to do so."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"I thank the Minister for her answer. She spoke briefly earlier about departmental assistance to help farmers with their income. Does the Minister acknowledge the current absence of a specific mechanism designed to mitigate price volatility?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"Obviously, pricing is a commercial issue. There is a whole range of things that the Department can do to assist the industry, particularly around knowledge transfer, providing advice, helping people to work up business plans and promoting greater efficiency on farm. In looking at what I and the Department can do, we will concentrate on those areas. The other key area that we have to concentrate on at Executive level, not just my Department but DETI, is new markets. We need to explore new markets for the industry. Again, that will help the price in simple supply and demand. These are the areas that we are focusing on in the Department. Your initial question was around being able to spread the farm deposit scheme across a number of years. I would be very supportive of that, and I have actually written to DEFRA to raise that point."},{"speaker":"Mr G Robinson","text":"As the trend is towards continuing growth and expansion opportunities for our farming communities, does the Minister agree that it is important to assist our farmers through these difficult financial times?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"Absolutely. We have seen prices fall in the dairy industry and, at the end of last year, in the beef sector. Thankfully, they have improved, but it is a very challenging situation. As I said in a previous answer, we have had a rise in input costs. The value of the euro and all the challenges that are there seem to be conspiring against the farming industry at this time. It is so important that my Department does all that it can to help people through what are very difficult times. One of the things that I did recently was to have a meeting with all the main banks around their being flexible in dealing with their farming customers, given the pricing situation that we are facing. That was quite a positive engagement. I was accompanied by the UFU, which was quite positive in that we were speaking with one voice in asking the banks for a bit more flexibility for the industry as it goes through what is a very difficult time."},{"speaker":"Mr Lynch","text":"Go raibh maith agat, a LeasCheann Comhairle. Gabhaim buíochas leis an Aire as na freagraí seo. The Minister mentioned the dairy sector in her last answer and knows that it is a difficult time for that sector. What support can DARD provide to the dairy sector at this time?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"As I said, both I and my Department are fully supportive of the dairy industry. We will continue to do what we can throughout this difficult time. One of the recent issues was the introduction of the Russian ban on dairy imports. The Enterprise Minister and I wrote to the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs advising of the concerns that were expressed by the local industry, particularly around the ban. We emphasised the need for support from EU level. That is something that I also raised with Commissioner Ciolo? when I was in Brussels in September. I continue to lobby DEFRA on its approach to Europe. We have very different views about supports for the industry. However, I will always fight the corner for our industry. As I said earlier, I, alongside the UFU, recently met the banks to discuss cash-flow concerns. That was a very useful conversation. We have asked the banks to be very proactive, sympathetic and flexible and to work with the industry. We are hopeful that that will be the experience of farmers. Given the drop in prices, the Russian ban and all the other challenges that are there for the industry, it is so important that I continue to do whatever I can. Alongside the supports that we provide, particularly around advice, we need to be looking at new markets and at what support we can provide for the industry to get into those new markets. How can we target them? What do we have to offer? What is our unique selling point?"},{"speaker":"","text":"I am keen to work with DETI on those areas to live up to the aspirations of the Going for Growth strategy."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207297%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=218637","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2015-01-12&docID=218560#AQO%207297/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=218637"}},{"id":"217929","reference":"AQW 40169/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-12","answerBy":"2015-01-08","answered":"2015-01-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to list the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from his Department since 2011.","answerText":"Please see below the list of community and voluntary groups and the relevant funding programme who have received funding from my Department since 2011.\n\n1st Garvagh Church\n1st Macosquin Boys Brigade\n2nd Kilrea Presbyterian Women\nAghadowey WI\nAghanloo Womens Institute\nAlzheimers Society Causeway Service\nArticlave Young at Heart\nBallybogey Over 50's Club\nBoveedy Springwell Club\nBovevagh Sunday School\nCastlerock Senior Citizens Club\nCauseway N.H.S. Retirement Fellowship\nColeraine Borough 50+ Forum\nCompass Advocacy Network\nCrafts With Love\nFirst Limavady Girls Brigade\nGarvagh & District Development Ass.\nGarvagh & District Diamond Club\nGarvagh Pipe Band\nGarvagh Womens Institute\nGarvagh Women's Network\nGlenullin Childcare Trust\nHealth & Social Care Retirement Fellowship NI - Causeway Branch\nHealth and Social Care Retirement Fellowship\nKillyvalley Residents Association\nKilrea Ageing Well Club\nKilrea Wednesday Walkers\nLower Bann Area Group of WI\nMacosquin Pres. Church\nMacosquin Pres. Church Youth Org. 'Blast'\nMacosquin Presbyterian Church Youth Fellowship\nMacosquin Presbyterian Friendship Group\nMacosquin Women's Institute\nMoneydig Rural Network Group\nMovenis Area Community Ass.\nNorth Coast Community Transport (NCCT)\nRegimental Association of UDR Coleraine Branch\nTexas Kickers Linedance Group\nWindyhall 50+ Club","answerHtml":"Please see below the list of community and voluntary groups and the relevant funding programme who have received funding from my Department since 2011.
| 1st Garvagh Church |
| 1st Macosquin Boys Brigade |
| 2nd Kilrea Presbyterian Women |
| Aghadowey WI |
| Aghanloo Womens Institute |
| Alzheimers Society Causeway Service |
| Articlave Young at Heart |
| Ballybogey Over 50's Club |
| Boveedy Springwell Club |
| Bovevagh Sunday School |
| Castlerock Senior Citizens Club |
| Causeway N.H.S. Retirement Fellowship |
| Coleraine Borough 50+ Forum |
| Compass Advocacy Network |
| Crafts With Love |
| First Limavady Girls Brigade |
| Garvagh & District Development Ass. |
| Garvagh & District Diamond Club |
| Garvagh Pipe Band |
| Garvagh Womens Institute |
| Garvagh Women's Network |
| Glenullin Childcare Trust |
| Health & Social Care Retirement Fellowship NI - Causeway Branch |
| Health and Social Care Retirement Fellowship |
| Killyvalley Residents Association |
| Kilrea Ageing Well Club |
| Kilrea Wednesday Walkers |
| Lower Bann Area Group of WI |
| Macosquin Pres. Church |
| Macosquin Pres. Church Youth Org. 'Blast' |
| Macosquin Presbyterian Church Youth Fellowship |
| Macosquin Presbyterian Friendship Group |
| Macosquin Women's Institute |
| Moneydig Rural Network Group |
| Movenis Area Community Ass. |
| North Coast Community Transport (NCCT) |
| Regimental Association of UDR Coleraine Branch |
| Texas Kickers Linedance Group |
| Windyhall 50+ Club |
It is the combination of many factors that make Northern Ireland a world-class investment opportunity. Invest NI has a very successful track record of attracting high quality Foreign Direct Investment.
The Northern Ireland investment proposition is based on: a skilled, highly-educated and loyal workforce with a low turnover rate; an advanced economic infrastructure in terms of airports, harbours, motorways and high-speed electronic communications; competitive operating costs including labour and property; a high quality of life including a low crime rate, ready access to both city and countryside, leisure and cultural activities; a strategic location close to major markets in Great Britain and the European mainland; support from a world-class business development agency; and a successful track record of attracting and supporting investors
Invest NI has a global reach with offices located in four main geographic regions of Europe & Russia, the Americas, India, Middle East and Africa (IMEA) and Asia Pacific. The agency uses a variety of means in those overseas markets to promote Northern Ireland as a location to meet the needs of overseas investors and help their businesses grow and thrive. The Northern Ireland Executive is fully supportive of those efforts, with the main objective my own overseas visits, along with those by the First Minister, deputy First Minister and other Executive Colleagues, being the promotion of opportunities for Foreign Direct Investment and exports.
Northern Ireland has to work hard to attract investment in what is a highly competitive global market. Our skills base has proved highly attractive to companies operating in knowledge-based sectors (Business and Professional Services, Financial Services and ICT/software). This is maintained by excellent universities and higher education colleges, together with initiatives such as the Assured Skills programme operated by the Department of Employment and Learning.
This point was emphasised by Jeremiah Grossman, the Chief Executive of US-based Whitehat Security, which recently announced its intention to create 80 new jobs in Belfast. Mr Grossman commented that the opportunity to recruit high calibre graduates and professionals and Northern Ireland’s excellent telecommunications infrastructure were the crucial factors in the company’s location decision.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040168%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217928","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217928"}},{"id":"217927","reference":"AQW 40167/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-12","answerBy":"2015-01-08","answered":"2014-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department is working with the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland to address levels of crime against older people.","answerText":"DOJ officials met with representatives from the Commissioner for Older People’s office in July 2012 to take their views on the outcomes for older people contained in the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017 and to invite a nominee to sit on the Delivery Group responsible for those outcomes. Whilst not in a position to take up the offer of a nominee at that time, my officials continue to liaise with the Commissioner’s staff on related issues arising as required.\n\nI have personally met with the Commissioner, including in March 2013, when I met with her and a number of stakeholders to discuss the Department’s performance on community safety issues. In June this year, I met with the Commissioner to discuss her report ‘Protecting our Older People in Northern Ireland: A Call for Adult Safeguarding Legislation’ which considered the adequacy and effectiveness of the law in protecting older people from abuse.\n\nThe Policing Plan 2014-2017 includes an outcome to improve services to vulnerable groups, one of which is older people, and contains a specific measure which states ‘In partnership with PCSPs and key stakeholders, to reduce the number of burglaries and robberies where older people are victims’. Linked to this is the measure to increase the outcome rate for domestic burglary by 2%. In line with the Policing Plan, PCSPs deliver a range of initiatives aimed at tackling crime against older people and they engage with the Commissioner in relation to this where relevant. For example, the Commissioner has been the principle speaker at the Newtownards PCSP funded AGENDA (Age North Down and Ards) Annual General Meeting for the last two years, addressing policing and safety concerns of older people. Also, in partnership with Belfast City Council’s Age Friendly Team, Belfast PCSP links directly with the Commissioner’s Office to develop age friendly initiatives and assist the delivery of the Age Friendly Strategy.","answerHtml":"DOJ officials met with representatives from the Commissioner for Older People’s office in July 2012 to take their views on the outcomes for older people contained in the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017 and to invite a nominee to sit on the Delivery Group responsible for those outcomes. Whilst not in a position to take up the offer of a nominee at that time, my officials continue to liaise with the Commissioner’s staff on related issues arising as required.
I have personally met with the Commissioner, including in March 2013, when I met with her and a number of stakeholders to discuss the Department’s performance on community safety issues. In June this year, I met with the Commissioner to discuss her report ‘Protecting our Older People in Northern Ireland: A Call for Adult Safeguarding Legislation’ which considered the adequacy and effectiveness of the law in protecting older people from abuse.
The Policing Plan 2014-2017 includes an outcome to improve services to vulnerable groups, one of which is older people, and contains a specific measure which states ‘In partnership with PCSPs and key stakeholders, to reduce the number of burglaries and robberies where older people are victims’. Linked to this is the measure to increase the outcome rate for domestic burglary by 2%. In line with the Policing Plan, PCSPs deliver a range of initiatives aimed at tackling crime against older people and they engage with the Commissioner in relation to this where relevant. For example, the Commissioner has been the principle speaker at the Newtownards PCSP funded AGENDA (Age North Down and Ards) Annual General Meeting for the last two years, addressing policing and safety concerns of older people. Also, in partnership with Belfast City Council’s Age Friendly Team, Belfast PCSP links directly with the Commissioner’s Office to develop age friendly initiatives and assist the delivery of the Age Friendly Strategy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040167%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217927","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217927"}},{"id":"217924","reference":"AQW 40166/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-12","answerBy":"2015-01-08","answered":"2015-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how Further Education Colleges are supporting (i) the creative industries; (ii) tourism food and drink sectors; (iii) the service sector; (iv) finance and business; (v) health service provision; and (vi) the construction sector.","answerText":"The six further education colleges are key economic drivers in their areas, meeting the training and educational needs of local and international companies. Colleges also provide a full suite of business support services, including product development, rapid prototyping and support for innovation.\n\nColleges are the largest providers of professional and technical training in Northern Ireland, and they make a significant and high quality contribution to addressing the current and future skills needs of local and regional businesses. All of the colleges have a strong engagement with industry, offering training and learning development to employers and their employees.\n\nWhilst my Department sets the strategic direction for the further education sector, each college is responsible for its own curriculum offer, including those areas which include the creative industries, tourism, food and drink sectors, the service sector, finance and business, health service provision and the construction sector.\n\nColleges offer a wide range of economically focused provision, tailored to meet local needs. Decisions on whether specific courses are offered is driven by the level of demand locally, and it is the responsibility of individual colleges to meet the needs of learners and employers in their locations in a cost effective way that ensures best use of public money.\n\nCreative Industries\n\nColleges provide a flexible and important role in widening participation to provide students with a variety of routes and courses into the creative industries. The colleges work closely with the Creative and Cultural Skills Sector Skills Council on the provision of apprenticeships at Level 2 as well as supporting apprentices to achieve a full Level 3 qualification. Students can also access higher level skills such as Foundation Degrees in Digital Technology and Gaming and have the opportunity to use college state of the art facilities. In addition, the colleges recognise fully the importance of this sector to the Northern Ireland economy and students are able to develop practical and entrepreneurial skills to help prepare them for the world of work including self employment.\n\nFood and Drink Sector\n\nA Future Skills Action Group for the Food and Drink Manufacturing and Processing sector was established by my Department in 2011 to help the industry to identify and address the skills issues it faces. This group consists of a wide range of members from government, local employers and further and higher education providers who work collaboratively to develop and pilot interventions to ensure employers are getting people with the skills they need to grow this economically important sector.\n\nOne such intervention is the Food Engineering Apprenticeship which is currently being delivered by Southern Regional College. This initiative started in January 2014 and will see seven apprentices acquire both Level 2 and Level 3 accreditation in Engineering. Southern Regional College was instrumental in working with employers from the industry to develop the frameworks.\n\nServices Sector\n\nColleges are represented and play an active role on the Ministerial Working Group for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services which brings together a range of employers, representative bodies, government officials, other government departments. Colleges are also working with Energy and Utility Skills Sector Skills Council, to train apprentices in the energy and utility sector.\n\nFinance and Business & Health Sector\n\nColleges currently support the finance business and health sectors with various projects including one entitled Career Academies, a programme that prepares students for the world of work. A key element of this programme is to link students to employers through master classes, mentoring, workplace visits and internships. Career Academies UK provides a structured programme and support to the schools and colleges around the UK who operate Career Academies.\n\nThe Academy, focusing on the business and finance & health sectors, aims to enhance the aspirations and career prospects of young, enthusiastic people aged 16-19 and give participating students the opportunity to broaden the number of genuine choices they have about their future education and career pathways.\n\nConstruction Sector\n\nColleges in conjunction with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) organise an annual skills competition known as Skillbuild, which provides apprentices with an important stepping stone to participate in the UK Skills competitions and also World Skills. The Skillsbuild competition covers a wide range of craft occupations such as – Bricklaying/ Cabinet Making/ Carpentry/ Dry Walling Systems/ Joinery/ Painting and Decorating/ Plastering/ Roofing/ Stonemasonry/ Wall and Floor Tiling and provides a perfect platform to demonstrate and showcase the enormous talent we have in the construction industry in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn addition, colleges are responsible for registering students for skills competitions in a number of sector areas, and for hosting local campus, inter-campus and Regional / Northern Ireland heats. There are at present around twenty skills areas in operation within the college network, covering all sectors of the economy. Successful students can go on to represent Northern Ireland at the UK Skills Show, and represent the UK at Worldskills. These competitions are designed to raise the awareness of young people, and those who influence them, to the opportunities available in sectors and raise the understanding in government, education and industry to the importance of skills training.\n\nAssured Skills\n\nMy Department’s Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies and the expansion of indigenous businesses by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion. This supports the companies’ business plans by adding value to their training and development activity, and facilitates links with the further education and university sectors to design bespoke training solutions to up-skill existing staff, or to facilitate student or lecturer placements.\n\nDuring this current year Assured Skills has created 2,073 potential jobs. Since the programme commenced in 2010/11, a total of 4,609 jobs across a number of sectors, including the service and financial services sector, have been created. Of the 4,609 jobs, 726 jobs relate to the financial services sector and over 1,000 are in the services sector.\n\nAssured Skills also enhances the capability of NI to respond to the needs of potential investors by up-skilling lecturers to anticipate future needs, and by creating pools of talent with skills of interest to potential investors, for example by up-skilling unemployed graduates through the 'Academy' model. The Academy model is a short term intervention to help companies meet specific needs. To date, unemployed graduates have been up-skilled in software testing, cloud computing, data analytics, sales & marketing, financial services and professional software skills. All of the Academies mentioned above have been designed and delivered by further education colleges in partnership with Assured Skills.\n\nSkills Solutions\n\nFurther Education colleges provide support across the sectors through provision of accredited training funded through my Department’s Customised Training Programme which allows colleges to deliver bespoke training solutions in response to specific needs.\n\nColleges are dedicated to providing a wide range of support for local employers, through sector-wide initiatives and projects, to encourage businesses to engage with and embrace innovation and sustainability. Further education colleges with support from my Department will also continue to play a pivotal role in up-skilling our workforce to meet the future skills challenges and support the future economic success of Northern Ireland.\n\nEmployer Support Programme\n\nFinally, I can advise you that the Department’s Employer Support Programme, which is delivered by further education colleges, plays a vital role as a programme designed specifically for businesses with fewer than 50 employees. This programme helps small businesses to gain the skills and support to move forward in terms of innovation, by providing a unique, tailored training solution targeted at their individual innovation skills needs.","answerHtml":"The six further education colleges are key economic drivers in their areas, meeting the training and educational needs of local and international companies. Colleges also provide a full suite of business support services, including product development, rapid prototyping and support for innovation.
Colleges are the largest providers of professional and technical training in Northern Ireland, and they make a significant and high quality contribution to addressing the current and future skills needs of local and regional businesses. All of the colleges have a strong engagement with industry, offering training and learning development to employers and their employees.
Whilst my Department sets the strategic direction for the further education sector, each college is responsible for its own curriculum offer, including those areas which include the creative industries, tourism, food and drink sectors, the service sector, finance and business, health service provision and the construction sector.
Colleges offer a wide range of economically focused provision, tailored to meet local needs. Decisions on whether specific courses are offered is driven by the level of demand locally, and it is the responsibility of individual colleges to meet the needs of learners and employers in their locations in a cost effective way that ensures best use of public money.
Creative Industries
Colleges provide a flexible and important role in widening participation to provide students with a variety of routes and courses into the creative industries. The colleges work closely with the Creative and Cultural Skills Sector Skills Council on the provision of apprenticeships at Level 2 as well as supporting apprentices to achieve a full Level 3 qualification. Students can also access higher level skills such as Foundation Degrees in Digital Technology and Gaming and have the opportunity to use college state of the art facilities. In addition, the colleges recognise fully the importance of this sector to the Northern Ireland economy and students are able to develop practical and entrepreneurial skills to help prepare them for the world of work including self employment.
Food and Drink Sector
A Future Skills Action Group for the Food and Drink Manufacturing and Processing sector was established by my Department in 2011 to help the industry to identify and address the skills issues it faces. This group consists of a wide range of members from government, local employers and further and higher education providers who work collaboratively to develop and pilot interventions to ensure employers are getting people with the skills they need to grow this economically important sector.
One such intervention is the Food Engineering Apprenticeship which is currently being delivered by Southern Regional College. This initiative started in January 2014 and will see seven apprentices acquire both Level 2 and Level 3 accreditation in Engineering. Southern Regional College was instrumental in working with employers from the industry to develop the frameworks.
Services Sector
Colleges are represented and play an active role on the Ministerial Working Group for Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services which brings together a range of employers, representative bodies, government officials, other government departments. Colleges are also working with Energy and Utility Skills Sector Skills Council, to train apprentices in the energy and utility sector.
Finance and Business & Health Sector
Colleges currently support the finance business and health sectors with various projects including one entitled Career Academies, a programme that prepares students for the world of work. A key element of this programme is to link students to employers through master classes, mentoring, workplace visits and internships. Career Academies UK provides a structured programme and support to the schools and colleges around the UK who operate Career Academies.
The Academy, focusing on the business and finance & health sectors, aims to enhance the aspirations and career prospects of young, enthusiastic people aged 16-19 and give participating students the opportunity to broaden the number of genuine choices they have about their future education and career pathways.
Construction Sector
Colleges in conjunction with the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) organise an annual skills competition known as Skillbuild, which provides apprentices with an important stepping stone to participate in the UK Skills competitions and also World Skills. The Skillsbuild competition covers a wide range of craft occupations such as – Bricklaying/ Cabinet Making/ Carpentry/ Dry Walling Systems/ Joinery/ Painting and Decorating/ Plastering/ Roofing/ Stonemasonry/ Wall and Floor Tiling and provides a perfect platform to demonstrate and showcase the enormous talent we have in the construction industry in Northern Ireland.
In addition, colleges are responsible for registering students for skills competitions in a number of sector areas, and for hosting local campus, inter-campus and Regional / Northern Ireland heats. There are at present around twenty skills areas in operation within the college network, covering all sectors of the economy. Successful students can go on to represent Northern Ireland at the UK Skills Show, and represent the UK at Worldskills. These competitions are designed to raise the awareness of young people, and those who influence them, to the opportunities available in sectors and raise the understanding in government, education and industry to the importance of skills training.
Assured Skills
My Department’s Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies and the expansion of indigenous businesses by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion. This supports the companies’ business plans by adding value to their training and development activity, and facilitates links with the further education and university sectors to design bespoke training solutions to up-skill existing staff, or to facilitate student or lecturer placements.
During this current year Assured Skills has created 2,073 potential jobs. Since the programme commenced in 2010/11, a total of 4,609 jobs across a number of sectors, including the service and financial services sector, have been created. Of the 4,609 jobs, 726 jobs relate to the financial services sector and over 1,000 are in the services sector.
Assured Skills also enhances the capability of NI to respond to the needs of potential investors by up-skilling lecturers to anticipate future needs, and by creating pools of talent with skills of interest to potential investors, for example by up-skilling unemployed graduates through the 'Academy' model. The Academy model is a short term intervention to help companies meet specific needs. To date, unemployed graduates have been up-skilled in software testing, cloud computing, data analytics, sales & marketing, financial services and professional software skills. All of the Academies mentioned above have been designed and delivered by further education colleges in partnership with Assured Skills.
Skills Solutions
Further Education colleges provide support across the sectors through provision of accredited training funded through my Department’s Customised Training Programme which allows colleges to deliver bespoke training solutions in response to specific needs.
Colleges are dedicated to providing a wide range of support for local employers, through sector-wide initiatives and projects, to encourage businesses to engage with and embrace innovation and sustainability. Further education colleges with support from my Department will also continue to play a pivotal role in up-skilling our workforce to meet the future skills challenges and support the future economic success of Northern Ireland.
Employer Support Programme
Finally, I can advise you that the Department’s Employer Support Programme, which is delivered by further education colleges, plays a vital role as a programme designed specifically for businesses with fewer than 50 employees. This programme helps small businesses to gain the skills and support to move forward in terms of innovation, by providing a unique, tailored training solution targeted at their individual innovation skills needs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040166%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217924"}},{"id":"217807","reference":"AQW 40129/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-11","answerBy":"2015-01-07","answered":"2014-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to list the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from his Department since 2011.","answerText":"The community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received DSD funding from my Department since 2011 are:\n\nOrganisation Name\nAge Concern Causeway\nArdinariff Historical and Cultural Society\nAsian Over 50 Club\nBallykelly Community and Youth Association\nBallyspallen Cricket Club\nBenedy Community Association\nBovalley Community Asociation\nBoveedy Community Assoc\nBuilding Ballysally Together\nBurnfoot Community Development Association\nCastlerock Community Association\nCastlerock Senior Citizens Wednesday Club\nCauseway Enterprise Agency\nCauseway Rural & Urban Network\nCauseway Volunteer Centre\nCauseway Women’s Aid\nChat\nColeraine FC Academy\nCrafts With Love\nDromboughil Community Association\nDrumsurn Community Association\nDungiven Celtic Youth FC\nDungiven Retirement Club\nEthnic Minorities Empowerment Association\nFeeny Community Association\nFocus on Family\nForeglen Community Association\nGlens Community Association\nGlenshane Care Association Ltd\nGortnaghey Community Association\nGreysteel Community Association\nHarvest Moon\nHome-Start Causeway\nKevin Lynch Hurling Club\nKillowen Community Association\nKilrea Ageing Well Club\nLimavady Community Development Initiative\nLimavady Senior Citizens\nLimavady Wolfhounds GAC\nMacosquin Village Community Association\nMeeting Point Luncheon Club\nMillburn Community Association\nMillburn Community Playgroup\nMoneydig Rural Network Group\nMovenis Area Community Association\nNaiscoil Neachtain\nNorth West Tongues, Tones & Tappin\nPortstewart Community Association\nRiding for the Disabled Association (Coleraine & District Group) Ltd\nRoe Valley Folk Club\nRoe Valley Residents Association\nStendhal Festival Ltd\nThe Glens Community Asociation\nUniversity of Ulster Coleraine\nWest Bann Development\nWindyhall 50+ Club\nWindyhall Community Association\nWindyhall Youth Club","answerHtml":"The community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received DSD funding from my Department since 2011 are:
| Organisation Name |
| Age Concern Causeway |
| Ardinariff Historical and Cultural Society |
| Asian Over 50 Club |
| Ballykelly Community and Youth Association |
| Ballyspallen Cricket Club |
| Benedy Community Association |
| Bovalley Community Asociation |
| Boveedy Community Assoc |
| Building Ballysally Together |
| Burnfoot Community Development Association |
| Castlerock Community Association |
| Castlerock Senior Citizens Wednesday Club |
| Causeway Enterprise Agency |
| Causeway Rural & Urban Network |
| Causeway Volunteer Centre |
| Causeway Women’s Aid |
| Chat |
| Coleraine FC Academy |
| Crafts With Love |
| Dromboughil Community Association |
| Drumsurn Community Association |
| Dungiven Celtic Youth FC |
| Dungiven Retirement Club |
| Ethnic Minorities Empowerment Association |
| Feeny Community Association |
| Focus on Family |
| Foreglen Community Association |
| Glens Community Association |
| Glenshane Care Association Ltd |
| Gortnaghey Community Association |
| Greysteel Community Association |
| Harvest Moon |
| Home-Start Causeway |
| Kevin Lynch Hurling Club |
| Killowen Community Association |
| Kilrea Ageing Well Club |
| Limavady Community Development Initiative |
| Limavady Senior Citizens |
| Limavady Wolfhounds GAC |
| Macosquin Village Community Association |
| Meeting Point Luncheon Club |
| Millburn Community Association |
| Millburn Community Playgroup |
| Moneydig Rural Network Group |
| Movenis Area Community Association |
| Naiscoil Neachtain |
| North West Tongues, Tones & Tappin |
| Portstewart Community Association |
| Riding for the Disabled Association (Coleraine & District Group) Ltd |
| Roe Valley Folk Club |
| Roe Valley Residents Association |
| Stendhal Festival Ltd |
| The Glens Community Asociation |
| University of Ulster Coleraine |
| West Bann Development |
| Windyhall 50+ Club |
| Windyhall Community Association |
| Windyhall Youth Club |
My Department has not provided funding to any community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry since 2011.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040128%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217806"}},{"id":"217805","reference":"AQW 40127/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-11","answerBy":"2015-01-07","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to list the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from his Department since 2011.","answerText":"The community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from the Department of Justice, including its Agencies but not its arm’s-length bodies, since 2011 are shown below:\n\n2011/12\n\nCreative Holistic Art Therapy (CHAT)\n\nThe Glens Community Association\n\nPatchwork (Ireland)\n\n2012/13\n\nBovalley Community Association\n\nRoe Valley Residents\n\nWest Bann Athletic Football Club\n\n2013/14\n\nBovalley Community Association\n\nRoe Valley Residents\n\nAll groups received their funding through the Youth Justice Agency Small Grant Scheme.","answerHtml":"The community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from the Department of Justice, including its Agencies but not its arm’s-length bodies, since 2011 are shown below:
2011/12
Creative Holistic Art Therapy (CHAT)
The Glens Community Association
Patchwork (Ireland)
2012/13
Bovalley Community Association
Roe Valley Residents
West Bann Athletic Football Club
2013/14
Bovalley Community Association
Roe Valley Residents
All groups received their funding through the Youth Justice Agency Small Grant Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040127%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217805","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217805"}},{"id":"217804","reference":"AQW 40126/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-11","answerBy":"2015-01-07","answered":"2015-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to list the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from his Department since 2011.","answerText":"The table below details the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry which have received funding from my Department since 2011. The table also includes organisations based outside East Londonderry but have undertaken projects within East Londonderry. These include the Woodland Trust , National Trust, Conservation Volunteers and Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust.\n\nGroup Name\tDOE Grant Programme\nThe Vale Project\tRoad Safety Grant Programme\nWoodland Trust\tNatural Heritage Grant Programme\nCauseway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust\tNatural Heritage Grant Programme\nClaudy Gaelic Athletic Club\tListed Building Grant Programme\nTrustees of Star Masonic Hall\tListed Building Grant Programme\nNational Trust\tListed Building Grant Programme\nSamaritans\tListed Building Grant Programme\nAnnaghagh Game Conservation Club\tChallenge Fund\nBallymaconnelly Renewal Group\tChallenge Fund\nCauseway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust\tChallenge Fund\nCarntoger Community Association\tChallenge Fund\nConservation Volunteers\tChallenge Fund\nGortnaghey Community Association\tChallenge Fund\nLearmount Community Development Group Ltd\tChallenge Fund\nNational Trust\tChallenge Fund\nRiding for Disabled Association (Coleraine and District Group)\tChallenge Fund\nRoe Angling Ltd\tChallenge Fund\nRoe Valley Community Property Ltd\tChallenge Fund\nRural Area Partnership in Derry Ltd\tChallenge Fund","answerHtml":"The table below details the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry which have received funding from my Department since 2011. The table also includes organisations based outside East Londonderry but have undertaken projects within East Londonderry. These include the Woodland Trust , National Trust, Conservation Volunteers and Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust.
| Group Name | DOE Grant Programme |
| The Vale Project | Road Safety Grant Programme |
| Woodland Trust | Natural Heritage Grant Programme |
| Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust | Natural Heritage Grant Programme |
| Claudy Gaelic Athletic Club | Listed Building Grant Programme |
| Trustees of Star Masonic Hall | Listed Building Grant Programme |
| National Trust | Listed Building Grant Programme |
| Samaritans | Listed Building Grant Programme |
| Annaghagh Game Conservation Club | Challenge Fund |
| Ballymaconnelly Renewal Group | Challenge Fund |
| Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust | Challenge Fund |
| Carntoger Community Association | Challenge Fund |
| Conservation Volunteers | Challenge Fund |
| Gortnaghey Community Association | Challenge Fund |
| Learmount Community Development Group Ltd | Challenge Fund |
| National Trust | Challenge Fund |
| Riding for Disabled Association (Coleraine and District Group) | Challenge Fund |
| Roe Angling Ltd | Challenge Fund |
| Roe Valley Community Property Ltd | Challenge Fund |
| Rural Area Partnership in Derry Ltd | Challenge Fund |
The Department for Employment and Learning is the Managing Authority for the European Social Fund (ESF). The Strategic Aim of the ESF Programme for 2014-2020 in Northern Ireland is to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity, and to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.
The Programme will fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market; these include those who are unemployed, including long term unemployed, or economically inactive.
There will also be a focus on supporting Young people aged 16-24 who are not in employment, education or training and on people with a disability.
The total value of the new ESF Programme is €513.4m. This amount is made up of €205.4m (40%) from the European Union, which requires 60% match funding of €308m.
ESF funding is awarded on a competitive basis. Applications are objectively assessed by an independent assessment Panel and any application that meets the required threshold will be considered for funding. The call for applications opened on Friday 28th November with a closing date of 9th January 2015. Comprehensive guidance notes were provided for all potential applicants on the Department’s website.
The Department has also administered the Collaboration and Innovation Fund, which has provided funding of over £9 million to organisations from the community, voluntary and educational sectors. This has provided support, between December 2012 and March 2015, to young people who are not in employment, education or training. Further support for this type of activity will be via the 2014-20 European Social Fund programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040125%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217803","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217803"}},{"id":"217675","reference":"AQW 40099/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-10","answerBy":"2015-01-06","answered":"2014-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to list the community voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from her Department since 2011.","answerText":"Please see below list of Community/Voluntary groups in the East Londonderry constituency that have received funding from my Department since 2011.\n\nAxis 3 Rural Development Programme\nRural Area Partnership in Derry (R.A.P.I.D.)\tClaudy\nGortnaghey Community Association\tDungiven\nRiding for the Disabled Association (Coleraine & District Group) Limited\tColeraine\nClass Ltd (Co Londonderry Agricultural Show Society Ltd)\tLimavady\nEagle Glen Community Partnership Ltd\tGarvagh\nCastlerock Community Association\tCastlerock\nGarvagh Development Trust (GDT)\tGarvagh\nGarvagh Museum Ltd\tGarvagh\nGreysteel Community Enterprises\tGreysteel\nCauseway Coast and Glens Tourism Partnership\tColeraine\nThe Bushmills Trust\tBushmills\nRural Challenge Programme\nAge Concern Causeway\tColeraine\nHands That Talk (3 Projects)\tDungiven\nDromboughil Community Association\tLimavady\nGortnaghey Community Association\tLimavady\nDestined Ltd\tFeeney\nRural Childcare Programme\nGlenullin Childcare Trust – Appletree Childcare\tGarvagh\nRural Community Development Support Service\nRural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID)\tClaudy","answerHtml":"Please see below list of Community/Voluntary groups in the East Londonderry constituency that have received funding from my Department since 2011.
| Axis 3 Rural Development Programme | |
| Rural Area Partnership in Derry (R.A.P.I.D.) | Claudy |
| Gortnaghey Community Association | Dungiven |
| Riding for the Disabled Association (Coleraine & District Group) Limited | Coleraine |
| Class Ltd (Co Londonderry Agricultural Show Society Ltd) | Limavady |
| Eagle Glen Community Partnership Ltd | Garvagh |
| Castlerock Community Association | Castlerock |
| Garvagh Development Trust (GDT) | Garvagh |
| Garvagh Museum Ltd | Garvagh |
| Greysteel Community Enterprises | Greysteel |
| Causeway Coast and Glens Tourism Partnership | Coleraine |
| The Bushmills Trust | Bushmills |
| Rural Challenge Programme | |
| Age Concern Causeway | Coleraine |
| Hands That Talk (3 Projects) | Dungiven |
| Dromboughil Community Association | Limavady |
| Gortnaghey Community Association | Limavady |
| Destined Ltd | Feeney |
| Rural Childcare Programme | |
| Glenullin Childcare Trust – Appletree Childcare | Garvagh |
| Rural Community Development Support Service | |
| Rural Area Partnership in Derry (RAPID) | Claudy |
The information you request is provided in the attached table.
Funding provided to voluntary/ community groups in the East Londonderry constituency since 2011
| Year | ALB | Amount | Organisation |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,820 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,648 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £2,178 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Articlave Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £16,424 | Coleraine Festival Committee |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,761 | Coleraine Festival Committee |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,642 | Coleraine Ulster-Scots Regeneration Group |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,128 | Coleraine Ulster-Scots Regeneration Group |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £825 | Ballysally Young Defenders |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Ballywillan Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,575 | Bellaghy Pipe Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,610 | Blackhill Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Dungiven Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Edenmore Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £669 | Kilrea & District Ulster Scots Society |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Mascoquin First Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,568 | Star of the Roe Flute Band |
| 2011 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,350 | Trench Memorial Flute Band |
| 2011 | Waterways Ireland | £20,000 | Lower Bann Riverfest Ltd |
| 2011/12 | Foras na Gaeilge | £3,491.14 | Glór Dhún Geimhin |
| Year | ALB | Amount | Organisation |
| 2011/12 | Foras na Gaeilge | £3,500 | Gaelscoil Léim an Mhadaidh |
| 2011/12 | Sport NI | £750 | Xplore Outdoors |
| 2011/12 | Sport NI | £3,269 | John Mitchel’s Glenullin GAC |
| 2011/12 | Sport NI | £5,500 | Greysteel Community Enterprise |
| 2011-2012 | Arts Council NI | £105,000 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2011-2012 | Arts Council NI | £9,800 | Awakin Ltd |
| 2011-2012 | Arts Council NI | £10,000 | Treasure Pilgrim Ltd |
| 2011-2012 | Arts Council NI | £4,943 | Lisnagrot Accordian Band |
| 2011-2012 | Arts Council NI | £4,048 | Trench Memorial Flute Band |
| 2011-2012 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Learmount Community Development Group Ltd. |
| 2012 | Waterways Ireland | £17,500 | Lower Bann Riverfest Ltd |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £14,999 | Coleraine Festival Committee |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,643 | Aghanloo 656 Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,230 | Articlave Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,591 | Ballinrees Pipe Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Ballyquin Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,500 | Ballywillan Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,643 | Blackhill Accordion Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Dungiven Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,643 | Mascoquin First Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,395 | Star of the Bann |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,215 | Star of the Roe |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,500 | Trench Memorial Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | William King Mem. Flute Band |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,520 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,118 | Coleraine Ulster-Scots Regeneration Group |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,465 | Ballysally Cultural Heritage & Dev Group |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,640 | Coleraine Festival Committee |
| Year | ALB | Amount | Organisation |
| 2012 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £2,228 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2012/13 | Foras na Gaeilge | £2,472 | Gaelscoil Léim an Mhadaidh |
| 2012/13 | Foras na Gaeilge | £3,500 | Naíscoil Léim an Mhadaidh |
| 2012/13 | Sport NI | £150 | Xplore Outdoors |
| 2012/13 | Sport NI | £49,903 | Bann Rowing Club |
| 2012/13 | Sport NI | £245,000 | John Mitchel’s Glenullin GAC |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £155,000 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £24,754 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £2,200 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £9,500 | Uproar Comics |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £9,984 | Whittrick Press LLP |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £3,374 | Craigbane Accordion Band |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £4,500 | Aghanloo Flute Band LOL656 |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £4,536 | Ballyquin Flute Band |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Limavady Drama Group |
| 2012-2013 | Arts Council NI | 35,000 | Eagle Glen Community Partnership |
| 2013 | Waterways Ireland | £12,500 | Lower Bann Riverfest Ltd |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £10,100 | Coleraine Festival Committee |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £3,663 | Garvagh & District Development Association |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £2,822 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Articlave Flute Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Edenmore Flute Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Freeman Flute Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Garvagh Pipe Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Killymuck Accordion Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Trench Memorial Flute Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £825 | Mascoquin First Flute Band |
| Year | ALB | Amount | Organisation |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Kilrea Pipe Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,761 | Ardinariff Historical & Cultural Society |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £998 | Moneydig Rural Network Group |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,650 | Ulster Protestant Boys Flute Band |
| 2013 | Ulster-Scots Agency | £1,630 | Windyhall Cultural/Community & Sports Action Group |
| 2013 | Foras na Gaeilge | £1,500 | Glór Dhún Geimhin |
| 2013/14/15 | Foras na Gaeilge | £44,999 | Naíscoil Ghleann an Iolair |
| 2013/14 | DCAL North West Team | £8,000 | Stendhal Festival Ltd. |
| 2013/14 | Foras na Gaeilge | £3,089 | Naíscoil Léim an Mhadaigh |
| 2013/14 | Sport NI | £22,518 | Bann Rowing Club |
| 2013/14 | Sport NI | £750 | Alive Surf School |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £150,350 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £16,000 | Age Concern Causeway |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £14,500 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £42,381 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £9,900 | Whittrick Press LLP |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £9,900 | Uproar Comics |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £4,920 | Killaloo Accordion Band |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Ballyrashane Flute Band |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Bellarena Accordion Band |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £4,995 | Blackhill Accordion Band |
| 2013-2014 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Articlave Flute Band |
| 2014 | Waterways Ireland | £11,500 | Lower Bann Riverfest Ltd |
| 2014 | Ulster-Scots Agency | 8,582 | Coleraine Festival Committee |
| 2014 | Ulster-Scots Agency | 1,950 | Freeman Flute Band |
| 2014 | Ulster-Scots Agency | 1,950 | Glenkeen Fife & Drum Band |
| 2014 | Ulster-Scots Agency | 2,040 | Mascoquin First Flute Band |
| Year | ALB | Amount | Organisation |
| 2014 | Ulster-Scots Agency | 1,950 | Windyhall Cultural/Community & Sports Action Group |
| 2014/15 | DCAL North West Team | £30,000 | Stendhal Festival Ltd. |
| 2014/15 | Foras na Gaeilge | £1,600 | Craobh Ghleann an Iolair |
| 2014/15 | Foras na Gaeilge | £2,203 | Gaelscoil Léim an Mhadaidh |
| 2014/15 | Foras na Gaeilge | £1,050 | Naíscoil Léim an Mhadaidh |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £1,427 | Ballyspallen Cricket Club |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £7,448 | Bann Wheelers Cycling Club |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £4,325 | Coleraine and District Riding for the Disabled Association |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £9,060 | Coleraine Rugby Football and Cricket Club |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £10,000 | Greysteel Community Enterprise |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £9,978 | Broighter Polo Paddlers |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £7,650 | Coleraine Cougars Special Olympics Club |
| 2014/15 | Sport NI | £4,860 | Dungiven Celtic FC |
| 2014-2015 | Arts Council NI | £150,350 | Big Telly Theatre Company |
| 2014-2015 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Garvagh Pipe Band |
| 2014-2015 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Macosquin First Flute Band |
| 2014-2015 | Arts Council NI | £5,000 | Kildoag Pipe Band |
Since 2011 there has only been one community and voluntary sector group, Hands that Talk, who has received funding from the Department through Invest NI’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040097%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217673","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217673"}},{"id":"217649","reference":"AQW 40090/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-10","answerBy":"2015-01-06","answered":"2014-12-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail all the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from his Department since 2011.","answerText":"It is not possible to identify all community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry in receipt of funding from the Department or its Arms Length Bodies. The information requested is not held by parliamentary constituency.","answerHtml":"It is not possible to identify all community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry in receipt of funding from the Department or its Arms Length Bodies. The information requested is not held by parliamentary constituency.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040090%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217649","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217649"}},{"id":"217640","reference":"AQW 40089/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-10","answerBy":"2015-01-06","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail all the community and voluntary groups in East Londonderry that have received funding from his Department since 2011.","answerText":"The Department of Education has not directly provided funding to community and voluntary groups in East Derry. The Department has however provided funding via other organisations.\n\nDetails of community and voluntary groups that have received funding indirectly from the Department through other organisations are included in the table below.\n\nCommunity/Voluntary Group\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\n\nAghadowey Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nChurchlands Y.C.\t√\nColeraine R.D.A.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCrisim Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nGarvagh Y.F.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nHazelbank Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nKilrea Y.F.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMacosquin Yth Fellowship\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMain Street Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nThe Cornerstone Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nAghadowey B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDunboe B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Garvagh B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMacosquin B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDunboe G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nGarvagh G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nHazelbank G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMacosquin G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Aghadowey Scouts\t\t\t\t√\n1st Castlerock Scouts\t√\t√\t√\t√\n15th Derry CSI\t√\t√\t√\t√\nAghadowey Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\n3rd Coleraine Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\nKilrea Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallysally Pres. Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Gateway\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Y.F.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Youth Group\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMillburn Comm. Assoc\t\t\t√\t√\nPhoenix ADHD Project\t\t\t√\t√\nSnatch Y.C. (Ballyrashane)\t√\t\t√\t√\nThe House Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nWindyhall Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Coleraine B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n2nd Coleraine B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n5th Coleraine B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallysally G.B.\t√\t√\t\t√\nBallywatt G.B.\t√\t√\t√\nNew Row G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Patrick's G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nTerrace Row G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Coleraine Scouts\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Girl Guide Assoc\t√\t√\t√\t√\n7th Coleraine Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Army Cadets\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Bapt. Campaigners\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPowerhouse Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st-3rd Portstewart B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBurnside G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortstewart Pres. G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Portstewart Scouts\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortstewart Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\nHoly Trinity Y.C.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortrush B.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallywillan G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortrush Pres. G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallywillan C.G.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallywillan C.L.B.\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortrush Sea Cadets\t√\t√\t√\t√\n(1st) Dungiven Boys Brigade\t\t√\t√\t√\n1st Ballykelly Boys Brigade\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Balteagh Boys Brigade\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Banagher BB\t√\t√\t√\t√\n1st Roe Valley Cubs / Scouts\t√\t√\t√\t√\n25th Derry Scouts\t\t√\t√\t√\nBallykelly District Guide Association\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallykelly Girls Brigade\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallykelly Presbyterian Church Y C\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBalteagh GB\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBalteagh Presbyterian Church Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBanagher Girls Brigade\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBenedy Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBenbradagh\t\t\t√\nBovalley Community Association Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBovevagh Girls Brigade\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBurnfoot Community Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nClaudy Guides (1st)\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCoolessan Community Association\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCraigbane Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCumber Upper Youth Group\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDrumachose BB\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDrumachose GB\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDrumahoe Platoon Army Cadet Force\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDrumsurn Community Association Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDungiven Girls Brigade 316th\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDungiven Young Farmers Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nEnagh\t\t\t√\nEglinton ACF\t√\t√\t√\t√\nEglinton Scout Group\t√\t√\t√\t√\nFaughanvale BB (1st)\t√\t√\t√\t√\nFaughanvale Guide Units 1st\t√\t√\t√\t√\nFeeny CA\t\t\t√\nGortnaghey Youth Group\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLargy Presbyterian Church YC\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLearmount Drop-In Centre\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLettershandoney & District Development Group\t√\t√\nLimavady ACF\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLimavady Baptist Church Campaigners\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLimavady BB 1st\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLimavady BB 2nd\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLimavady GB 1st\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLimavady GB 2nd\t√\t√\t√\t√\nNew Beginnings YC (RVRA)\t√\t√\t√\t√\nNewbuildings ACF\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Ann's Brigin, Faughanvale\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Canice's Girl Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Theresa's Brigin\t√\t√\t√\t√\nThe Glens Community Association\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBallykelly Community and Youth Association\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCurrynierin YC\t√\t√\t√\t√\nForeglen YC\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLettershandoney Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLimavady Christian Drop-In Centre\t√\t√\t√\t√\nRoe Valley Scout and Guides\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Mary's YC, Altinure\t√\t√\t√\t√\nUpper Cumber Youth Club\t√\t√\t√\t√\nAghadowey Pre-School Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nAppletree Childcare\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCastlerock Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCrows Nest Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nHarpurs Hill Community Early Years\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMacosquin Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMillburn Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortrush Community Pre-School Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nWest Bann Development (Dev Worker)\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBanagher Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nDrumsurn Parent & Toddler\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLifestart Limavady\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLittle Diamonds Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLittle Rascals Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMagilligan Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nOrchard Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nStraidarran Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nAghadowey PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nApple Tree Childcare\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCastlerock Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nCauseway Pre-School\t\t√\t√\t√\nCrows Nest Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nGarvagh Pre-Sch PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nKilrea Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLittle Acorns Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMacosquin Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMillburn Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nNaiscoil Ghleann an Iolair\t\t\t√\t√\nPlayhouse Activity Centre\t√\t√\t√\t√\nPortrush Pre-School PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSandelford Special School\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Columba's Pre-School PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Colum's Pre-School Centre\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSt Malachy's PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nStepping Stones Creche,Coleraine\t√\t√\t√\t√\nSunshine Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nWatt Fun Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nBanagher Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nGreysteel Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nLittle Rascals's PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nMagilligan Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nNaiscoil Leim an Mhadaidh\t√\t√\t√\t√\nOrchard Community Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nRoe Vally Community PG\t√\t√\t√\t√\nRoundabout Playgroup\t√\t√\t√\t√\nThe Dry Arch Centre\t√\t√\t√\t√\nColeraine Education Community Project\t\t\t\t√","answerHtml":"The Department of Education has not directly provided funding to community and voluntary groups in East Derry. The Department has however provided funding via other organisations.
Details of community and voluntary groups that have received funding indirectly from the Department through other organisations are included in the table below.
| Community/Voluntary Group | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 |
| Aghadowey Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Churchlands Y.C. | √ | |||
| Coleraine R.D.A. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Crisim Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Garvagh Y.F.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Hazelbank Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Kilrea Y.F.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Macosquin Yth Fellowship | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Main Street Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| The Cornerstone Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Aghadowey B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Dunboe B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Garvagh B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Macosquin B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Dunboe G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Garvagh G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Hazelbank G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Macosquin G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Aghadowey Scouts | √ | |||
| 1st Castlerock Scouts | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 15th Derry CSI | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Aghadowey Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 3rd Coleraine Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Kilrea Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballysally Pres. Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Gateway | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Y.F.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Youth Group | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Millburn Comm. Assoc | √ | √ | ||
| Phoenix ADHD Project | √ | √ | ||
| Snatch Y.C. (Ballyrashane) | √ | √ | √ | |
| The House Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Windyhall Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Coleraine B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 2nd Coleraine B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 5th Coleraine B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballysally G.B. | √ | √ | √ | |
| Ballywatt G.B. | √ | √ | √ | |
| New Row G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Patrick's G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Terrace Row G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Coleraine Scouts | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Girl Guide Assoc | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 7th Coleraine Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Army Cadets | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Bapt. Campaigners | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Powerhouse Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st-3rd Portstewart B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Burnside G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portstewart Pres. G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Portstewart Scouts | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portstewart Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Holy Trinity Y.C. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portrush B.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballywillan G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portrush Pres. G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballywillan C.G.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballywillan C.L.B. | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portrush Sea Cadets | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| (1st) Dungiven Boys Brigade | √ | √ | √ | |
| 1st Ballykelly Boys Brigade | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Balteagh Boys Brigade | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Banagher BB | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 1st Roe Valley Cubs / Scouts | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| 25th Derry Scouts | √ | √ | √ | |
| Ballykelly District Guide Association | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballykelly Girls Brigade | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballykelly Presbyterian Church Y C | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Balteagh GB | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Balteagh Presbyterian Church Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Banagher Girls Brigade | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Benedy Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Benbradagh | √ | |||
| Bovalley Community Association Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Bovevagh Girls Brigade | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Burnfoot Community Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Claudy Guides (1st) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coolessan Community Association | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Craigbane Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Cumber Upper Youth Group | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Drumachose BB | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Drumachose GB | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Drumahoe Platoon Army Cadet Force | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Drumsurn Community Association Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Dungiven Girls Brigade 316th | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Dungiven Young Farmers Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Enagh | √ | |||
| Eglinton ACF | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Eglinton Scout Group | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Faughanvale BB (1st) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Faughanvale Guide Units 1st | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Feeny CA | √ | |||
| Gortnaghey Youth Group | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Largy Presbyterian Church YC | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Learmount Drop-In Centre | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Lettershandoney & District Development Group | √ | √ | ||
| Limavady ACF | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Limavady Baptist Church Campaigners | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Limavady BB 1st | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Limavady BB 2nd | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Limavady GB 1st | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Limavady GB 2nd | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| New Beginnings YC (RVRA) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Newbuildings ACF | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Ann's Brigin, Faughanvale | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Canice's Girl Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Theresa's Brigin | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| The Glens Community Association | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Ballykelly Community and Youth Association | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Currynierin YC | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Foreglen YC | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Lettershandoney Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Limavady Christian Drop-In Centre | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Roe Valley Scout and Guides | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Mary's YC, Altinure | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Upper Cumber Youth Club | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Aghadowey Pre-School Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Appletree Childcare | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Castlerock Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Crows Nest Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Harpurs Hill Community Early Years | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Macosquin Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Millburn Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portrush Community Pre-School Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| West Bann Development (Dev Worker) | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Banagher Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Drumsurn Parent & Toddler | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Lifestart Limavady | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Little Diamonds Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Little Rascals Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Magilligan Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Orchard Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Straidarran Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Aghadowey PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Apple Tree Childcare | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Castlerock Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Causeway Pre-School | √ | √ | √ | |
| Crows Nest Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Garvagh Pre-Sch PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Kilrea Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Little Acorns Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Macosquin Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Millburn Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Naiscoil Ghleann an Iolair | √ | √ | ||
| Playhouse Activity Centre | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Portrush Pre-School PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Sandelford Special School | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Columba's Pre-School PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Colum's Pre-School Centre | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| St Malachy's PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Stepping Stones Creche,Coleraine | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Sunshine Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Watt Fun Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Banagher Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Greysteel Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Little Rascals's PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Magilligan Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Naiscoil Leim an Mhadaidh | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Orchard Community Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Roe Vally Community PG | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Roundabout Playgroup | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| The Dry Arch Centre | √ | √ | √ | √ |
| Coleraine Education Community Project | √ |
Junior Ministers met the Chief Executive of the Commissioner for Older People on 16 December 2014 to discuss the Programme for Government commitment to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services. On foot of this meeting, the Commissioner for Older People wrote to Junior Ministers on 15 and 30 January 2015 seeking further clarification on how this Programme for Commitment would be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2040000%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217488","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217488"}},{"id":"217485","reference":"AQW 39999/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-09","answerBy":"2015-01-05","answered":"2015-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel whether he plans to provide support for owners of vacant properties where rates are set to increase from April 2015.","answerText":"I have no plans to provide any further support for owners of non-domestic vacant properties. The policies we have adopted in this part of the UK already reflect the higher rate of vacancies here. The standard rate for empty commercial properties is 50% liability whereas it is 90% in Scotland and 100% in England and Wales. Furthermore, we pioneered the empty retail premises relief which affords 50% relief for the first year to new occupiers of long term empty premises and which so far has helped 19 new ventures in the Coleraine area get established.\n\nFurthermore, the £30 million scheme introduced by the Executive to help manage the convergence of district rates will be automatically applied to all domestic and non-domestic properties, occupied or vacant, via a discount to their district rate. The only exclusions from the scheme will be in respect of public sector bodies and those properties which are already converged through social sector standardisation.","answerHtml":"I have no plans to provide any further support for owners of non-domestic vacant properties. The policies we have adopted in this part of the UK already reflect the higher rate of vacancies here. The standard rate for empty commercial properties is 50% liability whereas it is 90% in Scotland and 100% in England and Wales. Furthermore, we pioneered the empty retail premises relief which affords 50% relief for the first year to new occupiers of long term empty premises and which so far has helped 19 new ventures in the Coleraine area get established.
Furthermore, the £30 million scheme introduced by the Executive to help manage the convergence of district rates will be automatically applied to all domestic and non-domestic properties, occupied or vacant, via a discount to their district rate. The only exclusions from the scheme will be in respect of public sector bodies and those properties which are already converged through social sector standardisation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039999%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217485"}},{"id":"217484","reference":"AQW 39998/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-09","answerBy":"2015-01-05","answered":"2015-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister why Programme for Government 2011/15 commitment number 44, to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services, has not been delivered.","answerText":"The Programme for Government commitment in respect of age discrimination legislation is number 38, not 44.\n\nWe made a Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015 announcing our decision to bring forward legislative proposals to prohibit unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services. The proposed legislation will apply to people aged 16 and over.\n\nSubject to consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive agreement, we intend to issue a consultation document in the near future setting out our proposals for legislation. When we have concluded our policy consultation, and agreed a robust policy position, we will then consider all the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"The Programme for Government commitment in respect of age discrimination legislation is number 38, not 44.
We made a Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015 announcing our decision to bring forward legislative proposals to prohibit unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services. The proposed legislation will apply to people aged 16 and over.
Subject to consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive agreement, we intend to issue a consultation document in the near future setting out our proposals for legislation. When we have concluded our policy consultation, and agreed a robust policy position, we will then consider all the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039998%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217484","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217484"}},{"id":"217483","reference":"AQW 39997/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-09","answerBy":"2015-01-05","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 39545/11-15, how Health and Social Care Trusts are actively encouraging people who are fulfilling a role as a carer, but are unknown to the Trust, to identify themselves in order to have an assessment carried out.","answerText":"In order to fulfil their statutory duty to make information regarding a carer’s right to an assessment widely available, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts continue to undertake a high level engagement process across all Programmes of Care (POC) to identify as many ‘hidden’ carers as possible.\n\nEach Trust has longstanding Carer Co-ordinators in post who drive policy on the identification of carers of all ages. This is achieved through a wide range of initiatives including: service wide communication strategies which incorporate information packs on the carers assessment, these packs are made available to all Trust teams and information can be accessed on each of the individual Trust websites; GP initiatives, Trust contracts with voluntary and community sector organisations to encourage carers to recognise themselves as carers; and supporting specific projects like the Carers Trust ‘Mind the Gap’ project, which specifically targets older, hidden carers.\n\nA summary of individual Trust initiatives is attached.\n\nAnnex A\n\nNorthern HSC Trust\n\nIn line with the Northern Trust Carers Strategy, 8000 information leaflets & information packs on Carers Assessment and Carers Register are disseminated each year. This information is distributed through Heath and Social Care Teams within all Programmes of Care (POC). Similar information is displayed in GP surgeries across the Trust with particular emphasis during Carers Week in June, where the Northern Trust promotes carer support and Carer Assessment by distributing information throughout Trust hospitals, and local supermarkets. In order to raise awareness in Black Minority Ethnic (BME) carers, these information leaflets have been translated into 11 different languages.\n\nThe Northern Trust run 12 carer support events per year. These events are promoted widely through Trust mechanisms and also through local press releases, and external organisations - such as churches, community and voluntary groups, supermarkets etc. In partnership with Carers NI, seven carer support groups are facilitated in the Trust area. These groups continuously raise awareness of the rights of carers to a carer assessment.\n\nThe Northern Trust website also contains a comprehensive list of carer support which is updated on a monthly basis.\n\nWestern HSC Trust\n\nThe Western Trust’s Carers Support Team attend a wide range of events in order to identify hidden carers and work closely with the Trust’s communications team to promote carer awareness. The Support Team also facilitates a Carers’ Worker network, which is open to community and voluntary sector staff that come in contact with carers with the aim of providing up-to-date relevant information, to raise awareness of carers’ rights and issues, as well as encouraging the uptake of carer’s assessment.\n\nA Carers Newsletter (updated throughout the year) and information booklet has been produced and is circulated to 3,150 carers currently registered on the Trust’s Carers’ Register, as well as all Trust staff, GP practices and community and voluntary sector organisations. Further, the Trust has established a pathway for GPs to refer carers for a Carer’s Assessment.\n\nThe Western Trust is actively engaged in supporting the ‘Mind the Gap’ project funded by the Big Lottery via Carers Trust, which specifically targets older, hidden carers.\n\nBelfast HSC Trust\n\nOver the past four years the Belfast Trust has been implementing their Strategy, Belfast Carers at the Heart of the Belfast Trust. This strategy outlines our commitment to carers and provides a framework to promote, develop and improve support services for them in Belfast. Some of the outcomes from this work have led to earlier identification of carers.\n\nThe Belfast Trust has two Carer Co-ordinators and one of their key roles is to promote awareness of carers, their right to an assessment and the ways in which the Trust can support them. This is done in a number of ways. The Carer Co-ordinators regularly go out to groups to speak about carer assessments and support. These include church groups, senior citizen forums and voluntary groups. Both Carer Co-ordinators have established networks within the voluntary and community sector who are aware of how to refer carers for a carers assessment. The Trust has developed information on a carers right to a carers assessment and these leaflets have been distributed widely in the Trust area to these groups. Information on carer assessments is also promoted on the Trust website.\n\nThe Trust contracts with a wide range of voluntary and independent organisations to encourage carers to identify themselves including Alzheimer’s Society, Belfast Carers Centre, CAUSE and Praxis. Work has also been progressed with GP surgeries across Belfast where they have a pathway to refer carers for a carer assessment and information. This work is being currently reviewed to ensure the Trust is effectively identifying carers in primary care.\n\nTo identify specific groups of carers, strategic partnerships have been developed. The Belfast Trust works with Mind the Gap project to identify older carers in the area who are not known to the Trust. The support worker in turn makes referrals for carer assessments for all older carers identified by the project.\n\nSouth Eastern HSC Trust\n\nThe South Eastern Trust has a carer information booklet containing a range of information about the supports available within the Trust through Trust services or organisations in the community and voluntary sector. These booklets are available in Trust Offices and GP surgeries across the entire Trust area, as well as through a range of organisations which support carers including Carers NI. The Trust website has a dedicated carer section on its internet site about the supports/initiatives available within the Trust area for carers.\n\nThe Trust Carers Development Officer has strong links with a range of organisations and groups in the community and voluntary sector to ensure that the already well established network of support is maintained and kept up to date. For example, the Safe and Well Project, a Lottery funded project in the Down and Lisburn areas, aims to identify and support older people aged 65 and over who are socially isolated. As well as other areas of input, this project actively seeks to identify hidden carers.\n\nThe Trust Carers Development Officer also has an initiative with all GP surgeries across the Trust area to promote the identification of family carers. There is a specific referral pathway for carer assessment and carer support through the Trust carer database. In addition, there is regular communication with GPs to ensure they are aware of the supports available for carers.\n\nSouthern Trust\n\nAs part of the Southern Trust Carers Action plan, a GP protocol has been developed informing practices of Carers right to a Carers assessment and how to access support. Plans are in place to disseminate this within all GP practices within the Southern Trust.\n\nThe Southern Trust are partners in the Big Lottery funded Mind the Gap project and the Carers’ Coordinator attends meetings as part of the expert reference group. This projects aims are to identify Carers over the aged of 60 not known to services and signpost on to relevant supports including the SHSCT for Carers Assessment. The Southern Trust has also in place a contract with an organisation, Carers Matter, to support Carers by providing a community based outreach programme that works with relevant local statutory and community based organisations to identify both rural and urban locations from which to provide carers support services.\n\nThe Trust Carers Coordinator works with voluntary & community Groups across all POCs including the regional BME Carers group, and has developed a Carers information booklet which has been circulated to all teams and GP surgeries in the Southern Trust. The Communications department have developed a webpage for Carers sharing all the resources and up to date information. The Carers Information booklet and Carers assessment leaflet can be downloaded from this page. Up to date information is shared on the Trust Social Media accounts.","answerHtml":"In order to fulfil their statutory duty to make information regarding a carer’s right to an assessment widely available, all Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts continue to undertake a high level engagement process across all Programmes of Care (POC) to identify as many ‘hidden’ carers as possible.
Each Trust has longstanding Carer Co-ordinators in post who drive policy on the identification of carers of all ages. This is achieved through a wide range of initiatives including: service wide communication strategies which incorporate information packs on the carers assessment, these packs are made available to all Trust teams and information can be accessed on each of the individual Trust websites; GP initiatives, Trust contracts with voluntary and community sector organisations to encourage carers to recognise themselves as carers; and supporting specific projects like the Carers Trust ‘Mind the Gap’ project, which specifically targets older, hidden carers.
A summary of individual Trust initiatives is attached.
Annex A
Northern HSC Trust
In line with the Northern Trust Carers Strategy, 8000 information leaflets & information packs on Carers Assessment and Carers Register are disseminated each year. This information is distributed through Heath and Social Care Teams within all Programmes of Care (POC). Similar information is displayed in GP surgeries across the Trust with particular emphasis during Carers Week in June, where the Northern Trust promotes carer support and Carer Assessment by distributing information throughout Trust hospitals, and local supermarkets. In order to raise awareness in Black Minority Ethnic (BME) carers, these information leaflets have been translated into 11 different languages.
The Northern Trust run 12 carer support events per year. These events are promoted widely through Trust mechanisms and also through local press releases, and external organisations - such as churches, community and voluntary groups, supermarkets etc. In partnership with Carers NI, seven carer support groups are facilitated in the Trust area. These groups continuously raise awareness of the rights of carers to a carer assessment.
The Northern Trust website also contains a comprehensive list of carer support which is updated on a monthly basis.
Western HSC Trust
The Western Trust’s Carers Support Team attend a wide range of events in order to identify hidden carers and work closely with the Trust’s communications team to promote carer awareness. The Support Team also facilitates a Carers’ Worker network, which is open to community and voluntary sector staff that come in contact with carers with the aim of providing up-to-date relevant information, to raise awareness of carers’ rights and issues, as well as encouraging the uptake of carer’s assessment.
A Carers Newsletter (updated throughout the year) and information booklet has been produced and is circulated to 3,150 carers currently registered on the Trust’s Carers’ Register, as well as all Trust staff, GP practices and community and voluntary sector organisations. Further, the Trust has established a pathway for GPs to refer carers for a Carer’s Assessment.
The Western Trust is actively engaged in supporting the ‘Mind the Gap’ project funded by the Big Lottery via Carers Trust, which specifically targets older, hidden carers.
Belfast HSC Trust
Over the past four years the Belfast Trust has been implementing their Strategy, Belfast Carers at the Heart of the Belfast Trust. This strategy outlines our commitment to carers and provides a framework to promote, develop and improve support services for them in Belfast. Some of the outcomes from this work have led to earlier identification of carers.
The Belfast Trust has two Carer Co-ordinators and one of their key roles is to promote awareness of carers, their right to an assessment and the ways in which the Trust can support them. This is done in a number of ways. The Carer Co-ordinators regularly go out to groups to speak about carer assessments and support. These include church groups, senior citizen forums and voluntary groups. Both Carer Co-ordinators have established networks within the voluntary and community sector who are aware of how to refer carers for a carers assessment. The Trust has developed information on a carers right to a carers assessment and these leaflets have been distributed widely in the Trust area to these groups. Information on carer assessments is also promoted on the Trust website.
The Trust contracts with a wide range of voluntary and independent organisations to encourage carers to identify themselves including Alzheimer’s Society, Belfast Carers Centre, CAUSE and Praxis. Work has also been progressed with GP surgeries across Belfast where they have a pathway to refer carers for a carer assessment and information. This work is being currently reviewed to ensure the Trust is effectively identifying carers in primary care.
To identify specific groups of carers, strategic partnerships have been developed. The Belfast Trust works with Mind the Gap project to identify older carers in the area who are not known to the Trust. The support worker in turn makes referrals for carer assessments for all older carers identified by the project.
South Eastern HSC Trust
The South Eastern Trust has a carer information booklet containing a range of information about the supports available within the Trust through Trust services or organisations in the community and voluntary sector. These booklets are available in Trust Offices and GP surgeries across the entire Trust area, as well as through a range of organisations which support carers including Carers NI. The Trust website has a dedicated carer section on its internet site about the supports/initiatives available within the Trust area for carers.
The Trust Carers Development Officer has strong links with a range of organisations and groups in the community and voluntary sector to ensure that the already well established network of support is maintained and kept up to date. For example, the Safe and Well Project, a Lottery funded project in the Down and Lisburn areas, aims to identify and support older people aged 65 and over who are socially isolated. As well as other areas of input, this project actively seeks to identify hidden carers.
The Trust Carers Development Officer also has an initiative with all GP surgeries across the Trust area to promote the identification of family carers. There is a specific referral pathway for carer assessment and carer support through the Trust carer database. In addition, there is regular communication with GPs to ensure they are aware of the supports available for carers.
Southern Trust
As part of the Southern Trust Carers Action plan, a GP protocol has been developed informing practices of Carers right to a Carers assessment and how to access support. Plans are in place to disseminate this within all GP practices within the Southern Trust.
The Southern Trust are partners in the Big Lottery funded Mind the Gap project and the Carers’ Coordinator attends meetings as part of the expert reference group. This projects aims are to identify Carers over the aged of 60 not known to services and signpost on to relevant supports including the SHSCT for Carers Assessment. The Southern Trust has also in place a contract with an organisation, Carers Matter, to support Carers by providing a community based outreach programme that works with relevant local statutory and community based organisations to identify both rural and urban locations from which to provide carers support services.
The Trust Carers Coordinator works with voluntary & community Groups across all POCs including the regional BME Carers group, and has developed a Carers information booklet which has been circulated to all teams and GP surgeries in the Southern Trust. The Communications department have developed a webpage for Carers sharing all the resources and up to date information. The Carers Information booklet and Carers assessment leaflet can be downloaded from this page. Up to date information is shared on the Trust Social Media accounts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039997%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217483"}},{"id":"217482","reference":"AQW 39996/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-09","answerBy":"2015-01-05","answered":"2014-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update following his recent meeting with the Chairperson of the Fire and Rescue Service Board, in respect of implementing cost saving measures within the Fire Service.","answerText":"The meeting with The Chairperson of Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service(NIFRS) Board was constructive and allowed an open and frank discussion on the challenges that lie ahead.\n\nNIFRS has been asked to develop a range of savings proposals that could deliver the best possible outcomes under three scenarios, 5%, 10% and 15% reductions. NIFRS has been asked to risk assess and prioritise savings proposals before submission to my Department, on the basis of those that minimise the impact on service delivery, the fire-fighter and public safety will be key considerations.\n\nA decision on NIFRS 2015/16 budget allocations, in common with all ALBs within my Department will only be taken after full consideration has been given to the service delivery impacts identified in each ALBs proposal.","answerHtml":"The meeting with The Chairperson of Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service(NIFRS) Board was constructive and allowed an open and frank discussion on the challenges that lie ahead.
NIFRS has been asked to develop a range of savings proposals that could deliver the best possible outcomes under three scenarios, 5%, 10% and 15% reductions. NIFRS has been asked to risk assess and prioritise savings proposals before submission to my Department, on the basis of those that minimise the impact on service delivery, the fire-fighter and public safety will be key considerations.
A decision on NIFRS 2015/16 budget allocations, in common with all ALBs within my Department will only be taken after full consideration has been given to the service delivery impacts identified in each ALBs proposal.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039996%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217482"}},{"id":"217348","reference":"AQW 39946/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-08","answerBy":"2014-12-23","answered":"2015-02-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the Early Intervention Transformation Programme, as part of the framework for Delivering Social Change.","answerText":"The Early Intervention Transformation Programme is one of three Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes co-funded by Atlantic Philanthropies which we announced in September 2014.\n\nA Programme Board has been established and three initial work-streams have been identified, as follows:\n\nWork-stream 1 to focus on equipping all parents with the skills needed to give their child the best start in life;\n\nWork-stream 2 to focus on supporting families locally when problems first emerge and before they become embedded; and\n\nWork-stream 3 to focus on addressing the impact of adversity on children, by intervening both earlier and more effectively to reduce the risk of poor outcomes later in life.\n\nWhilst the projects within Work-streams 1 and 2 are currently being developed via a broad engagement process, three initial projects from Work-stream 3 have been approved by the Programme Board and are actively being pursued. These relate to earlier intervention in the lives of children living in particularly adverse circumstances.","answerHtml":"The Early Intervention Transformation Programme is one of three Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes co-funded by Atlantic Philanthropies which we announced in September 2014.
A Programme Board has been established and three initial work-streams have been identified, as follows:
Work-stream 1 to focus on equipping all parents with the skills needed to give their child the best start in life;
Work-stream 2 to focus on supporting families locally when problems first emerge and before they become embedded; and
Work-stream 3 to focus on addressing the impact of adversity on children, by intervening both earlier and more effectively to reduce the risk of poor outcomes later in life.
Whilst the projects within Work-streams 1 and 2 are currently being developed via a broad engagement process, three initial projects from Work-stream 3 have been approved by the Programme Board and are actively being pursued. These relate to earlier intervention in the lives of children living in particularly adverse circumstances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039946%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217348","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217348"}},{"id":"217347","reference":"AQW 39945/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-08","answerBy":"2014-12-23","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how areas of his Department’s work, previously funded through the Block Grant, which will now be applying to the European Social Fund (ESF), meet the conditionality requirements of the ESF.","answerText":"All applicants to the ESF Programme will have to meet the criteria as outlined in the Guidance Notes and application form fully. These criteria include outlining how duplication with other local/geographical provision or other government programmes is avoided and/or additionality is demonstrated. It is very difficult to comment specifically on any application until it has been received and fully assessed by a process that is outlined below.\n\nMy Department is establishing Assessment Panels to examine all the applications that are submitted to the European Social Fund. It is anticipated the Assessment Panels will consist of members that are drawn from across the relevant business areas in the Department and also independent representation with relevant background in the specific Investment Priorities being assessed such as disability or young people.\n\nThe Assessment Panels will follow a robust and transparent process to ensure all applications are judged on merit and the specific criteria that are detailed in the application form.","answerHtml":"All applicants to the ESF Programme will have to meet the criteria as outlined in the Guidance Notes and application form fully. These criteria include outlining how duplication with other local/geographical provision or other government programmes is avoided and/or additionality is demonstrated. It is very difficult to comment specifically on any application until it has been received and fully assessed by a process that is outlined below.
My Department is establishing Assessment Panels to examine all the applications that are submitted to the European Social Fund. It is anticipated the Assessment Panels will consist of members that are drawn from across the relevant business areas in the Department and also independent representation with relevant background in the specific Investment Priorities being assessed such as disability or young people.
The Assessment Panels will follow a robust and transparent process to ensure all applications are judged on merit and the specific criteria that are detailed in the application form.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039945%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217347","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217347"}},{"id":"217346","reference":"AQW 39944/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-08","answerBy":"2014-12-23","answered":"2014-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what assurances he can give that projects within his Department, for which funding applications are submitted to the European Social Fund, will be judged fairly and on merit alone.","answerText":"My Department will establish Assessment Panels to examine all the applications that are submitted to the European Social Fund. The Assessment Panels will consist of members that are drawn from across the relevant business areas in the Department and also independent representation with relevant background in the specific Investment Priorities being assessed, such as disability or young people.\n\nThe Assessment Panels will follow a robust and transparent process to ensure all applications are judged on merit and against the specific criteria detailed in the application form.","answerHtml":"My Department will establish Assessment Panels to examine all the applications that are submitted to the European Social Fund. The Assessment Panels will consist of members that are drawn from across the relevant business areas in the Department and also independent representation with relevant background in the specific Investment Priorities being assessed, such as disability or young people.
The Assessment Panels will follow a robust and transparent process to ensure all applications are judged on merit and against the specific criteria detailed in the application form.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039944%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217346","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217346"}},{"id":"217343","reference":"AQW 39943/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-08","answerBy":"2014-12-23","answered":"2014-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he expects the report on Minimum Care Standards in Nursing Homes to be published.","answerText":"Consultation on the revised minimum standards for nursing homes closed on 27 October. My Department is currently considering the responses received and will issue a report in due course.\n\nIt is my intention that the final version of the revised standards be published by the end of March 2015.","answerHtml":"Consultation on the revised minimum standards for nursing homes closed on 27 October. My Department is currently considering the responses received and will issue a report in due course.
It is my intention that the final version of the revised standards be published by the end of March 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039943%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217343"}},{"id":"217342","reference":"AQW 39942/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-08","answerBy":"2014-12-23","answered":"2015-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what assurance they can provide that funding to enable the implementation of the Active Ageing Strategy 2014-2020 across Departments will remain a priority.","answerText":"Once finalised, the draft Strategy will be submitted to the Executive for approval. Upon receiving Executive approval, all Ministers will be committed to the delivery of the Strategy’s strategic aims and outcomes.","answerHtml":"Once finalised, the draft Strategy will be submitted to the Executive for approval. Upon receiving Executive approval, all Ministers will be committed to the delivery of the Strategy’s strategic aims and outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039942%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217342"}},{"id":"217197","reference":"AQW 39879/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-05","answerBy":"2014-12-10","answered":"2014-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, in relation to the reports that one city and 13 towns are set to lose their urban bus services next year, which towns will be affected; and how the removal of these services is likely to affect older people and people with disabilities who rely on these services.","answerText":"Set out below are the potential service reductions outlined by Translink in response to the budget potentially available next year. I would stress that these are indicative at this stage and no decisions have been taken. These are additional to income generation and efficiency and rationalisation measures which Translink are also proposing to make. These details will need to be revisited in light of the Executive’s final decision on the 15/16 Budget.\n\nPotential withdrawal of the following town services:\n\nArmagh\n\nBallyclare\n\nBallynahinch\n\nBanbridge\n\nCarrickfergus\n\nCookstown\n\nDownpatrick\n\nEnniskillen\n\nLimavady\n\nMagherafelt\n\nNewcastle\n\nNewtownabbey\n\nOmagh\n\nStrabane\n\nPotential service reductions and consolidation in the following towns:\n\nAntrim\n\nBallymena\n\nBangor\n\nDungannon\n\nLurgan\n\nPortadown\n\nNewry\n\nIf implemented, this would impact all users of these services including older people and people with a disability. It is possible that a detailed impact would be subject to Equality Impact Assessments.","answerHtml":"Set out below are the potential service reductions outlined by Translink in response to the budget potentially available next year. I would stress that these are indicative at this stage and no decisions have been taken. These are additional to income generation and efficiency and rationalisation measures which Translink are also proposing to make. These details will need to be revisited in light of the Executive’s final decision on the 15/16 Budget.
Potential withdrawal of the following town services:
Armagh
Ballyclare
Ballynahinch
Banbridge
Carrickfergus
Cookstown
Downpatrick
Enniskillen
Limavady
Magherafelt
Newcastle
Newtownabbey
Omagh
Strabane
Potential service reductions and consolidation in the following towns:
Antrim
Ballymena
Bangor
Dungannon
Lurgan
Portadown
Newry
If implemented, this would impact all users of these services including older people and people with a disability. It is possible that a detailed impact would be subject to Equality Impact Assessments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039879%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217197","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217197"}},{"id":"217195","reference":"AQW 39877/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-05","answerBy":"2014-12-22","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the geographical range of Northern Regional College campuses.","answerText":"In July 2005, my Department commissioned an economic appraisal to look at the future size and structure of the management units of the further education sector to determine how the colleges could best deliver the Department’s strategic aims. This appraisal can be found on the DEL website. As a result of its recommendations, Northern Regional College (NRC) was formed from the merger of Causeway Institute (campuses in Coleraine and Ballymoney), East Antrim Institute (campuses in Newtownabbey and Larne) and the North East Institute (campuses in Magherafelt, Antrim and Ballymena).\n\nThe new college structure was created to provide leading edge facilities to better meet the skills training required in a rapidly changing economy. To meet these needs NRC offers students an extensive range of higher education, further education, Training for Success, ApprenticeshipsNI and part-time courses, delivered across its campuses. These courses are available to and studied by students from all over Northern Ireland and beyond, and are not restricted to students living within the locality of the college campuses. There is therefore no ‘geographical range’ as such, although most students who attend NRC will be within relatively straightforward travelling distance from one of its campuses.\n\nYou may also wish to note that NRC is currently preparing an outline business case which will consider not only the future size and structure of the college estate, but also the courses to be delivered at each campus.","answerHtml":"In July 2005, my Department commissioned an economic appraisal to look at the future size and structure of the management units of the further education sector to determine how the colleges could best deliver the Department’s strategic aims. This appraisal can be found on the DEL website. As a result of its recommendations, Northern Regional College (NRC) was formed from the merger of Causeway Institute (campuses in Coleraine and Ballymoney), East Antrim Institute (campuses in Newtownabbey and Larne) and the North East Institute (campuses in Magherafelt, Antrim and Ballymena).
The new college structure was created to provide leading edge facilities to better meet the skills training required in a rapidly changing economy. To meet these needs NRC offers students an extensive range of higher education, further education, Training for Success, ApprenticeshipsNI and part-time courses, delivered across its campuses. These courses are available to and studied by students from all over Northern Ireland and beyond, and are not restricted to students living within the locality of the college campuses. There is therefore no ‘geographical range’ as such, although most students who attend NRC will be within relatively straightforward travelling distance from one of its campuses.
You may also wish to note that NRC is currently preparing an outline business case which will consider not only the future size and structure of the college estate, but also the courses to be delivered at each campus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039877%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217195","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217195"}},{"id":"217194","reference":"AQW 39876/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-05","answerBy":"2014-12-22","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether he has any plans to introduce voluntary redundancy packages in the Further Education sector; and whether funding exists within his Department to cover the cost of voluntary redundancies within the sector.","answerText":"My Department does not have the statutory authority to intervene in employment matters in the further education sector, including the introduction of voluntary redundancy schemes.\n\nAll staffing matters are the responsibility of each college as an employer.\n\nIn terms of the financing of any voluntary redundancies from the further education sector, I can say that there is currently no funding available from my Department.\n\nI assume upfront redundancy costs will be centrally funded from the Department of Finance and Personnel.","answerHtml":"My Department does not have the statutory authority to intervene in employment matters in the further education sector, including the introduction of voluntary redundancy schemes.
All staffing matters are the responsibility of each college as an employer.
In terms of the financing of any voluntary redundancies from the further education sector, I can say that there is currently no funding available from my Department.
I assume upfront redundancy costs will be centrally funded from the Department of Finance and Personnel.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039876%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217194","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217194"}},{"id":"217191","reference":"AQW 39873/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-05","answerBy":"2014-12-22","answered":"2014-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how cuts are likely to affect the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service in respect of (i) call out times; (ii) public safety; (iii) firefighter safety; (iv) support for animal rescue; and (v) the provision of services during flooding.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has been asked, as part of the Department’s planning process for 2015/16, to develop a range of savings proposals that could deliver the best possible outcomes under three scenarios, 5%, 10% and 15% reductions.\n\nNIFRS will be required to risk assess and prioritise savings proposals before submission to my Department, on the basis of those that minimise the impact on service delivery and ensure the continued safety of the public and firefighters.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has been asked, as part of the Department’s planning process for 2015/16, to develop a range of savings proposals that could deliver the best possible outcomes under three scenarios, 5%, 10% and 15% reductions.
NIFRS will be required to risk assess and prioritise savings proposals before submission to my Department, on the basis of those that minimise the impact on service delivery and ensure the continued safety of the public and firefighters.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039873%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217191"}},{"id":"217037","reference":"AQW 39821/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-04","answerBy":"2014-12-19","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, in light of budgetary constraints within his Department, which areas of his Department’s work, previously funded through the block grant, will he consider making applications under the European Social Fund to resource.","answerText":"The Strategic Aim of the NI ESF Programme 2014-2020 is to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity and to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.\n\nThe Programme will fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular, for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market, such as lone parents, and other groups who are unemployed, including long term unemployed, or economically inactive. Almost 20% of funding has been allocated for the priority supporting unemployed and inactive people.\n\nA quarter of the programme is ring fenced for projects supporting people with a disability, reflecting the importance DEL attaches to supporting this sector. Almost 20% has been ring fenced to support young people not in employment, education or training.\n\nThe total value of the new ESF Programme will be €513.4m – over 20% more than the initial allocation to the previous programme. This amount is made up of €205.4m (40%) from the European Union, which requires 60% match funding of €308m.\n\nESF funding will be awarded on a competitive basis. Applications will be objectively assessed by expert panels and any application that meets the required threshold will be considered for funding. As part of the call for applications, comprehensive guidance notes are available for all potential applicants.\n\nI would fully expect significant numbers of successful bids to come forward from the voluntary and community sector, as has been the case in previous ESF programmes. Statutory organisations will also be required to submit applications as part of the same process. The ESF funding can be released to any organisation which can raise the necessary match funding.\n\nIf the current draft budget stands without amendment, my Department will have difficulty in making available match funding for successful projects at the level it has been able to do in the past (typically 25% of the required 60% match funding for applicants, who have been required to find the remaining 35% from public sources).\n\nI will also no longer have in my budget the £35m additional funding the Executive made available in 2012 to deliver the Pathways to Success strategy and other initiatives in response to the economic situation at that time.\n\nWith regard to areas of my Department’s work that previously were mainstreamed, covered through block grant, that we could consider funding under the European Social Fund, areas such as the Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS), the Learner Access and Engagement Programme, the Collaboration and Innovation Fund (CIF) and the Community Family Support Programme are in large part already delivered by voluntary and community sector organisations and we are seeking to rationalise the range of funding streams through which we support the sector.\n\nIn the current financial context, it is also important that we minimise duplication between programmes funded by my Department, and that is why we are seeking to focus the ESF programme on level 1 provision and other support required by learners with barriers to employability, in which voluntary and community providers have particular expertise. At the same time, FE colleges and other Departmental programmes will have to reduce their level 1 provision and concentrate on higher level courses.\n\nTo this end, the six further education colleges are currently working on a combined application for ESF funding for a project at Level 1 and below.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Aim of the NI ESF Programme 2014-2020 is to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity and to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.
The Programme will fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular, for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market, such as lone parents, and other groups who are unemployed, including long term unemployed, or economically inactive. Almost 20% of funding has been allocated for the priority supporting unemployed and inactive people.
A quarter of the programme is ring fenced for projects supporting people with a disability, reflecting the importance DEL attaches to supporting this sector. Almost 20% has been ring fenced to support young people not in employment, education or training.
The total value of the new ESF Programme will be €513.4m – over 20% more than the initial allocation to the previous programme. This amount is made up of €205.4m (40%) from the European Union, which requires 60% match funding of €308m.
ESF funding will be awarded on a competitive basis. Applications will be objectively assessed by expert panels and any application that meets the required threshold will be considered for funding. As part of the call for applications, comprehensive guidance notes are available for all potential applicants.
I would fully expect significant numbers of successful bids to come forward from the voluntary and community sector, as has been the case in previous ESF programmes. Statutory organisations will also be required to submit applications as part of the same process. The ESF funding can be released to any organisation which can raise the necessary match funding.
If the current draft budget stands without amendment, my Department will have difficulty in making available match funding for successful projects at the level it has been able to do in the past (typically 25% of the required 60% match funding for applicants, who have been required to find the remaining 35% from public sources).
I will also no longer have in my budget the £35m additional funding the Executive made available in 2012 to deliver the Pathways to Success strategy and other initiatives in response to the economic situation at that time.
With regard to areas of my Department’s work that previously were mainstreamed, covered through block grant, that we could consider funding under the European Social Fund, areas such as the Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS), the Learner Access and Engagement Programme, the Collaboration and Innovation Fund (CIF) and the Community Family Support Programme are in large part already delivered by voluntary and community sector organisations and we are seeking to rationalise the range of funding streams through which we support the sector.
In the current financial context, it is also important that we minimise duplication between programmes funded by my Department, and that is why we are seeking to focus the ESF programme on level 1 provision and other support required by learners with barriers to employability, in which voluntary and community providers have particular expertise. At the same time, FE colleges and other Departmental programmes will have to reduce their level 1 provision and concentrate on higher level courses.
To this end, the six further education colleges are currently working on a combined application for ESF funding for a project at Level 1 and below.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039821%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217037","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217037"}},{"id":"217033","reference":"AQW 39818/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-04","answerBy":"2014-12-19","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, in light of the budgetary constraints to his Department, how he will protect organisations who are funded by the European Social Fund, whose client groups include those with mental health needs, learning and physical disabilities, lone parents and disadvantaged young people.","answerText":"The Strategic Aim of the NI ESF Programme 2014-2020 is to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity and to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.\n\nThe Programme will fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular, for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market, such as lone parents, and other groups who are unemployed, including long term unemployed, or economically inactive. Almost 20% of funding has been allocated for the priority supporting unemployed and inactive people.\n\nA quarter of the programme is ring fenced for projects supporting people with a disability, reflecting the importance DEL attaches to supporting this sector. Almost 20% has been ring fenced to support young people not in employment, education or training.\n\nThe total value of the new ESF Programme will be €513.4m – over 20% more than the initial allocation to the previous programme. This amount is made up of €205.4m (40%) from the European Union, which requires 60% match funding of €308m.\n\nESF funding will be awarded on a competitive basis. Applications will be objectively assessed by expert panels and any application that meets the required threshold will be considered for funding. As part of the call for applications, comprehensive guidance notes are available for all potential applicants.\n\nI would fully expect significant numbers of successful bids to come forward from the voluntary and community sector, as has been the case in previous ESF programmes. Statutory organisations will also be required to submit applications as part of the same process. The ESF funding can be released to any organisation which can raise the necessary match funding.\n\nIf the current draft budget stands without amendment, my Department will have difficulty in making available match funding for successful projects at the level it has been able to do in the past (typically 25% of the required 60% match funding for applicants, who have been required to find the remaining 35% from public sources).\n\nI will also no longer have in my budget the £35m additional funding the Executive made available in 2012 to deliver the Pathways to Success strategy and other initiatives in response to the economic situation at that time.\n\nWith regard to areas of my Department’s work that previously were mainstreamed, covered through block grant, that we could consider funding under the European Social Fund, areas such as the Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS), the Learner Access and Engagement Programme, the Collaboration and Innovation Fund (CIF) and the Community Family Support Programme are in large part already delivered by voluntary and community sector organisations and we are seeking to rationalise the range of funding streams through which we support the sector.\n\nIn the current financial context, it is also important that we minimise duplication between programmes funded by my Department, and that is why we are seeking to focus the ESF programme on level 1 provision and other support required by learners with barriers to employability, in which voluntary and community providers have particular expertise. At the same time, FE colleges and other Departmental programmes will have to reduce their level 1 provision and concentrate on higher level courses.\n\nTo this end, the six further education colleges are currently working on a combined application for ESF funding for a project at Level 1 and below.","answerHtml":"The Strategic Aim of the NI ESF Programme 2014-2020 is to combat poverty and enhance social inclusion by reducing economic inactivity and to increase the skills base of those currently in work and future potential participants in the workforce.
The Programme will fund activity to enhance and extend employment opportunities, in particular, for those groups at a disadvantage in the labour market, such as lone parents, and other groups who are unemployed, including long term unemployed, or economically inactive. Almost 20% of funding has been allocated for the priority supporting unemployed and inactive people.
A quarter of the programme is ring fenced for projects supporting people with a disability, reflecting the importance DEL attaches to supporting this sector. Almost 20% has been ring fenced to support young people not in employment, education or training.
The total value of the new ESF Programme will be €513.4m – over 20% more than the initial allocation to the previous programme. This amount is made up of €205.4m (40%) from the European Union, which requires 60% match funding of €308m.
ESF funding will be awarded on a competitive basis. Applications will be objectively assessed by expert panels and any application that meets the required threshold will be considered for funding. As part of the call for applications, comprehensive guidance notes are available for all potential applicants.
I would fully expect significant numbers of successful bids to come forward from the voluntary and community sector, as has been the case in previous ESF programmes. Statutory organisations will also be required to submit applications as part of the same process. The ESF funding can be released to any organisation which can raise the necessary match funding.
If the current draft budget stands without amendment, my Department will have difficulty in making available match funding for successful projects at the level it has been able to do in the past (typically 25% of the required 60% match funding for applicants, who have been required to find the remaining 35% from public sources).
I will also no longer have in my budget the £35m additional funding the Executive made available in 2012 to deliver the Pathways to Success strategy and other initiatives in response to the economic situation at that time.
With regard to areas of my Department’s work that previously were mainstreamed, covered through block grant, that we could consider funding under the European Social Fund, areas such as the Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS), the Learner Access and Engagement Programme, the Collaboration and Innovation Fund (CIF) and the Community Family Support Programme are in large part already delivered by voluntary and community sector organisations and we are seeking to rationalise the range of funding streams through which we support the sector.
In the current financial context, it is also important that we minimise duplication between programmes funded by my Department, and that is why we are seeking to focus the ESF programme on level 1 provision and other support required by learners with barriers to employability, in which voluntary and community providers have particular expertise. At the same time, FE colleges and other Departmental programmes will have to reduce their level 1 provision and concentrate on higher level courses.
To this end, the six further education colleges are currently working on a combined application for ESF funding for a project at Level 1 and below.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039818%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217033","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217033"}},{"id":"217028","reference":"AQW 39815/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-04","answerBy":"2014-12-19","answered":"2014-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether he intends to allow cost of living increases for staff in community voluntary sector organisations, in line with a 2.2 per cent cost of living increase agreed by the National Joint Council from January 2015.","answerText":"It is for voluntary and community sector organisations, as employers, to decide whether they are going to allow a cost of living increase for staff in their employment.\n\nIn terms of these voluntary and community sector organisations which receive funding from my Department , funding decision take account of individual project circumstances, the National Joint Council pay scales and the amount of funding which is available to my Department.","answerHtml":"It is for voluntary and community sector organisations, as employers, to decide whether they are going to allow a cost of living increase for staff in their employment.
In terms of these voluntary and community sector organisations which receive funding from my Department , funding decision take account of individual project circumstances, the National Joint Council pay scales and the amount of funding which is available to my Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039815%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217028","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217028"}},{"id":"217023","reference":"AQW 39811/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-04","answerBy":"2014-12-19","answered":"2014-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, in light of the budgetary constraints within his Department, what funding protection will continue for voluntary and community organisations which are involved in delivering public services, or in meeting the Programme for Government 11/15 objectives.","answerText":"The Departmental Draft Budget for 2015-16 was published on the Department’s website on 4 December 2014 for consultation. The document can be accessed at http://www.delni.gov.uk/index/consultation-zone/del-draft-budget-2015-16.htm.\n\nThere is a total cash reduction to the Department’s resource budget of £117m, comparing 2015-16 to the budget of 2014-15, which is 14.8% of the 2014-15 baseline. The level of cuts being proposed is unprecedented and this will have far reaching and deep implications across the provision of the Department and its Arms Length Bodies.\n\nNo services in the Department are currently protected and all areas of spending will be considered for potential reductions. The Department had already identified a range of options to begin to address the anticipated pressures in 2015-16 and a list of initial potential reductions totalling £33m is included in the Draft Budget document. The Department will seek to act as strategically as possible, which means trying to protect, first and foremost, those areas that are most relevant to the economy, as well as looking to those services that are provided to those who are most vulnerable.","answerHtml":"The Departmental Draft Budget for 2015-16 was published on the Department’s website on 4 December 2014 for consultation. The document can be accessed at http://www.delni.gov.uk/index/consultation-zone/del-draft-budget-2015-16.htm.
There is a total cash reduction to the Department’s resource budget of £117m, comparing 2015-16 to the budget of 2014-15, which is 14.8% of the 2014-15 baseline. The level of cuts being proposed is unprecedented and this will have far reaching and deep implications across the provision of the Department and its Arms Length Bodies.
No services in the Department are currently protected and all areas of spending will be considered for potential reductions. The Department had already identified a range of options to begin to address the anticipated pressures in 2015-16 and a list of initial potential reductions totalling £33m is included in the Draft Budget document. The Department will seek to act as strategically as possible, which means trying to protect, first and foremost, those areas that are most relevant to the economy, as well as looking to those services that are provided to those who are most vulnerable.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039811%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217023","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217023"}},{"id":"217006","reference":"AQW 39802/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-04","answerBy":"2014-12-19","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQW 39173/11-15, to detail the number of expressions of interest in the ‘restricted’ Northern Ireland Civil Service Voluntary Exit Scheme to generate vacancies for surplus Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency staff in Coleraine, which had been received by the December 3 2014 deadline.","answerText":"The NICS Administrative Assistant (AA) and Administrative Officer (AO) Voluntary Exit Scheme was launched on 19 November 2014 with the aim of clearing up to 130 surplus staff at AA & AO level.\n\nThe closing date for registering an expression of interest in receiving an illustration of entitlements under the Scheme was Wednesday 3 December 2014. A total of 783 eligible staff have registered their interest in receiving an illustration which includes a small number of late applications received after the closing date but which were accepted with the approval of the Scheme Selection Panel.\n\nThose staff who requested an illustration of entitlements have until 5.00pm on Wednesday 7 January 2015 to submit a formal application to leave under the terms of the Scheme.","answerHtml":"The NICS Administrative Assistant (AA) and Administrative Officer (AO) Voluntary Exit Scheme was launched on 19 November 2014 with the aim of clearing up to 130 surplus staff at AA & AO level.
The closing date for registering an expression of interest in receiving an illustration of entitlements under the Scheme was Wednesday 3 December 2014. A total of 783 eligible staff have registered their interest in receiving an illustration which includes a small number of late applications received after the closing date but which were accepted with the approval of the Scheme Selection Panel.
Those staff who requested an illustration of entitlements have until 5.00pm on Wednesday 7 January 2015 to submit a formal application to leave under the terms of the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039802%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217006","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217006"}},{"id":"216916","reference":"AQW 39753/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-03","answerBy":"2014-12-18","answered":"2014-12-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail the number of complaints received by Translink bus and rail services in the last year on the provision of transport services for users who have a disability.","answerText":"Officials requested that Translink’s Disability Accessibility Officer complete a high level analysis of the general bus complaints category to establish the level and nature of complaints. This revealed there were a total of 52 complaints in relation to bus services since 1 January 2014: forty one individual written complaints in relation to Ulsterbus Services, involving subjects such as access to service, design of vehicles , staff related issues, scooter access to buses and trains and the booking policy for wheelchair users on Goldline services; and eleven complaints in relation to Metro, regarding ramps, access to the wheelchair space or staff related issues .\n\nIn Northern Ireland Railways there is a category within its system where complaints can be attributed as coming from or linked to a passenger with a disability. Records show that there have been 8 complaints recorded in this category since January 2014.\n\nTranslink employ a Disability Accessibility Officer who engages on a regular basis with groups who represent people with disabilities. He is a member of the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) which provide advice and guidance in relation to people with disabilities using public transport.","answerHtml":"Officials requested that Translink’s Disability Accessibility Officer complete a high level analysis of the general bus complaints category to establish the level and nature of complaints. This revealed there were a total of 52 complaints in relation to bus services since 1 January 2014: forty one individual written complaints in relation to Ulsterbus Services, involving subjects such as access to service, design of vehicles , staff related issues, scooter access to buses and trains and the booking policy for wheelchair users on Goldline services; and eleven complaints in relation to Metro, regarding ramps, access to the wheelchair space or staff related issues .
In Northern Ireland Railways there is a category within its system where complaints can be attributed as coming from or linked to a passenger with a disability. Records show that there have been 8 complaints recorded in this category since January 2014.
Translink employ a Disability Accessibility Officer who engages on a regular basis with groups who represent people with disabilities. He is a member of the Inclusive Mobility Transport Advisory Committee (IMTAC) which provide advice and guidance in relation to people with disabilities using public transport.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039753%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216916","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216916"}},{"id":"216915","reference":"AQW 39752/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-03","answerBy":"2014-12-18","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of new teaching posts in (i) controlled; and (ii) voluntary sector primary and post-primary schools, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The Department of Education is not the employer of teachers and therefore does not hold this information.\n\nHowever, the number of new teaching posts over the last 3 academic years in the controlled sector has been provided by the five Education and Library Boards (ELBs), as the employing authorities for controlled schools and is shown in the table below. Neither the Department nor the ELBs hold this information for the Voluntary Grammar schools, as each school is an employer in their own right.\n\nControlled Sector\tNew Teaching Posts\n2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\nPost-Primary\t130\t127\t153\n\nThe Delivering Social Change Signature Programme to improve literacy and numeracy aimed to provide employment for recent graduate teachers, and support for pupils who are at risk of underachievement in communication and using maths at Key stage 2 and in English and maths at GCSE. To date 63 teachers have been placed in controlled post-primary schools since September 2013 on a two year fixed contract.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education is not the employer of teachers and therefore does not hold this information.
However, the number of new teaching posts over the last 3 academic years in the controlled sector has been provided by the five Education and Library Boards (ELBs), as the employing authorities for controlled schools and is shown in the table below. Neither the Department nor the ELBs hold this information for the Voluntary Grammar schools, as each school is an employer in their own right.
| Controlled Sector | New Teaching Posts | ||
| 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | |
| Post-Primary | 130 | 127 | 153 |
The Delivering Social Change Signature Programme to improve literacy and numeracy aimed to provide employment for recent graduate teachers, and support for pupils who are at risk of underachievement in communication and using maths at Key stage 2 and in English and maths at GCSE. To date 63 teachers have been placed in controlled post-primary schools since September 2013 on a two year fixed contract.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039752%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216915","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216915"}},{"id":"216910","reference":"AQW 39750/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-03","answerBy":"2014-12-18","answered":"2014-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the impact on staffing levels in schools as a result of budgetary constraints within his Department.","answerText":"Approximately 77% of the Education budget is made up of staff costs. Therefore, in order for the Department to manage within the impending budget constraints, there will need to be a significant reduction in the number of posts across the Education sector. My initial estimate is that at least 1,000 teaching and at least 1,500 non-teaching jobs will need to exit the system at 1 April 2015. This number will, inevitably, increase should the timing of the redundancies extend further into the 2015/16 financial year.","answerHtml":"Approximately 77% of the Education budget is made up of staff costs. Therefore, in order for the Department to manage within the impending budget constraints, there will need to be a significant reduction in the number of posts across the Education sector. My initial estimate is that at least 1,000 teaching and at least 1,500 non-teaching jobs will need to exit the system at 1 April 2015. This number will, inevitably, increase should the timing of the redundancies extend further into the 2015/16 financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039750%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216910","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216910"}},{"id":"216908","reference":"AQW 39749/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-03","answerBy":"2014-12-18","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment whether the new management structures for Local Government from April 2015 will be conducted internally or externally.","answerText":"Decisions concerning the management structures for Local Government are the responsibility of the elected members and officers of the new councils.\n\nIn making decisions and recruiting to those management structures, the new councils must comply with the Local Government Reform Joint Forum circular LGRJF/08 which gives effect to the provisions of the Guiding Principles and Associated Recommendations as recommended by the Public Service Commission and accepted by the NI Executive in relation to the procedure for filling posts in the new council structures.","answerHtml":"Decisions concerning the management structures for Local Government are the responsibility of the elected members and officers of the new councils.
In making decisions and recruiting to those management structures, the new councils must comply with the Local Government Reform Joint Forum circular LGRJF/08 which gives effect to the provisions of the Guiding Principles and Associated Recommendations as recommended by the Public Service Commission and accepted by the NI Executive in relation to the procedure for filling posts in the new council structures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039749%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216908","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216908"}},{"id":"216608","reference":"AQW 39660/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-02","answerBy":"2014-12-17","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for his assessment of the effectiveness of services such as Door-2-Door, concessionary fares, and improvements to rural transport provision in enhancing access to public transportation for older people and people with disabilities in urban and rural areas.","answerText":"The Door-2-Door service (now known as the Disability Action Transport Scheme) is available to members in urban areas with a population over 10,000. In 2013/14 over 140,000 journeys were made by the membership of this scheme. The Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme supported in the same period nearly 13 million journeys made by holders of the Senior, 60+ or Half Fare smart pass. Rural Community Transport Partnerships (supported by the Rural Transport Fund) provided 530,000 journeys for their members in 2013/14 which included those who are elderly or have a disability.\n\nThe effectiveness of these schemes which are transport interventions aimed at addressing social exclusion or rural isolation will be considered in the context of development of a new Accessible Transport Strategy for the period 2015-2025.","answerHtml":"The Door-2-Door service (now known as the Disability Action Transport Scheme) is available to members in urban areas with a population over 10,000. In 2013/14 over 140,000 journeys were made by the membership of this scheme. The Northern Ireland Concessionary Fares Scheme supported in the same period nearly 13 million journeys made by holders of the Senior, 60+ or Half Fare smart pass. Rural Community Transport Partnerships (supported by the Rural Transport Fund) provided 530,000 journeys for their members in 2013/14 which included those who are elderly or have a disability.
The effectiveness of these schemes which are transport interventions aimed at addressing social exclusion or rural isolation will be considered in the context of development of a new Accessible Transport Strategy for the period 2015-2025.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039660%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216608","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216608"}},{"id":"216607","reference":"AQW 39659/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-02","answerBy":"2014-12-17","answered":"2014-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the process of transferring functions for local economic development from InvestNI to new district councils.","answerText":"A comprehensive programme of engagement has taken place between my Department, Invest NI, Councils and the Department of Environment to ensure the transfer of functions takes place smoothly and efficiently.\n\nInvest NI will remain the primary economic development agency for Northern Ireland responsible for local business development after the reform of local government takes place. From April 2015 it will be the responsibility of local councils to determine the schemes they will establish to deliver those functions which are transferring.\n\nDETI and Invest NI have prepared input to the DOE Performance Framework, a draft Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Councils on contracts for Regional Start Initiative and Social Enterprise Programme and an overarching Guidance document for Councils.","answerHtml":"A comprehensive programme of engagement has taken place between my Department, Invest NI, Councils and the Department of Environment to ensure the transfer of functions takes place smoothly and efficiently.
Invest NI will remain the primary economic development agency for Northern Ireland responsible for local business development after the reform of local government takes place. From April 2015 it will be the responsibility of local councils to determine the schemes they will establish to deliver those functions which are transferring.
DETI and Invest NI have prepared input to the DOE Performance Framework, a draft Service Level Agreement (SLA) with Councils on contracts for Regional Start Initiative and Social Enterprise Programme and an overarching Guidance document for Councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039659%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216607"}},{"id":"216606","reference":"AQW 39658/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-02","answerBy":"2014-12-17","answered":"2014-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the measures in place to ensure the effective transfer of tourism powers to the new district councils.","answerText":"The Tourism (NI) Order 1992 provides Councils with the necessary powers to undertake local tourism functions.\n\nDETI, through Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) and Tourism Ireland, is working with local councils to develop and promote local tourism by focusing on our 9 key tourism areas.\n\nCouncils are now taking the lead in the development of Tourism Area Plans for the 9 key tourism areas and this work will be integrated into the new Councils’ Community Planning responsibilities from next April. Significant work has already been undertaken by the NITB and local authorities on a cross-council basis in each of the nine areas and NITB has met recently with a number of the Chief Executives of the new Councils. This partnership approach is ongoing and NITB will seek to put in place effective formalised working relationships with the new Councils as Local Government reform progresses.\n\nGiving Councils the lead in developing these tourism area plans clarified their lead role in many of the functions previously listed for transfer under the Review of Public Administration such as local marketing, local product development, visitor servicing and development of the sector at local level. The remaining list of tourism functions to be transferred to Councils is:\n\nProviding business support to tourism businesses including business start up advice along with training and delivery of customer care schemes. This includes small-scale tourism accommodation development. This is included in the arrangements with Invest NI for the transfer of business start programmes;\n\nProviding advice to developers on tourism policies and related issues. Councils will take the lead in this advice role from April 2015.","answerHtml":"The Tourism (NI) Order 1992 provides Councils with the necessary powers to undertake local tourism functions.
DETI, through Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB) and Tourism Ireland, is working with local councils to develop and promote local tourism by focusing on our 9 key tourism areas.
Councils are now taking the lead in the development of Tourism Area Plans for the 9 key tourism areas and this work will be integrated into the new Councils’ Community Planning responsibilities from next April. Significant work has already been undertaken by the NITB and local authorities on a cross-council basis in each of the nine areas and NITB has met recently with a number of the Chief Executives of the new Councils. This partnership approach is ongoing and NITB will seek to put in place effective formalised working relationships with the new Councils as Local Government reform progresses.
Giving Councils the lead in developing these tourism area plans clarified their lead role in many of the functions previously listed for transfer under the Review of Public Administration such as local marketing, local product development, visitor servicing and development of the sector at local level. The remaining list of tourism functions to be transferred to Councils is:
Providing business support to tourism businesses including business start up advice along with training and delivery of customer care schemes. This includes small-scale tourism accommodation development. This is included in the arrangements with Invest NI for the transfer of business start programmes;
Providing advice to developers on tourism policies and related issues. Councils will take the lead in this advice role from April 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039658%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216606","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216606"}},{"id":"216594","reference":"AQW 39657/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-02","answerBy":"2014-12-17","answered":"2014-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of homes considered to be in fuel poverty in East Londonderry; and to outline the measures being taken to ensure that these homes receive assistance this winter through fuel poverty schemes.","answerText":"The 2011 House Condition Survey reported that 42% of Northern Ireland households were in fuel poverty. This information is not available by parliamentary constituency. However, some modelling work was carried out at District Council Area (DCA) level and the 2011 figures for these DCAs were published in bands. Banded figures for the two DCAs that are most closely aligned with East Londonderry are as follows:\n\nColeraine (52-56%)\n\nLimavady (47-51%).\n\nIn terms of ensuring that relevant households receive appropriate assistance, the following measures are being taken by the Housing Executive:\n\nHousing Executive Stock\n\nHeating programme to switch to gas, where available, and to oil or wood pellets elsewhere.\n\nIncreased levels of loft insulation in on-going maintenance programmes. All stock brought up to 150mm – now being upgraded again to 270mm.\n\nDouble Glazing programme being completed for all Housing Executive stock.\n\nHEATSMART project provides direct energy advice to tenants getting new heating, at Change of Tenancy (COT) stage or for elderly tenants.\n\nTested external wall insulation on three rural cottages in Coleraine.\n\nTechnology Strategy Board (TSB) funded SIMPLER Scheme to test and install external insulation to our ‘No Fines’ dwellings in Antrim.\n\nElectricity brokering project undertaken in 2012 and 2013; tariff sheets regarding switching electricity were provided to all tenants in 2012 and are currently provided to all new tenants at COT stage.\n\nRenewables Programme funded in 2006/08 to install solar thermal panels in 2,030 dwellings.\n\nAction to tackle Fuel Poverty in privately owned and privately rented sector\n\nHousing Executive administers the Department for Social Development’s (DSD) Warm Homes Scheme, the main grant dealing with fuel poverty. (This scheme will end on 31 March 2015 and will be replaced by the Affordable Warmth Scheme.) I would encourage householders who think they may qualify for the Warm Homes Scheme to contact freephone 0800 988 0559 now. Further information about the Warm Homes Scheme can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/warm-homes-grant-scheme.\n\nThe Affordable Warmth Scheme will target privately owned and privately rented properties considered to be most at risk of fuel poverty and who have an income of less than £20,000. Further information can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/affordable-warmth-grant-scheme or 0300 200 7874.\n\nThe Housing Executive manages the Boiler Replacement Scheme on behalf of DSD. The Boiler Replacement Scheme is aimed at owner occupiers with an income of less than £40,000 and provides a grant of up to £1,000 towards replacing an old inefficient boiler with a new more energy efficient one. Further information about the Boiler Replacement Scheme can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/environment-and-greener-living/energy-wise/energy-saving-grants/boiler-replacement ( 03448 920 900).\n\nSocial Security Agency\n\nIn addition, my Department provides the Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment to qualifying households. The ‘Make the Call’ campaign, where people can check they are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to, can be contacted by phoning 0800 232 1271 (text phone 0800 232 1715) or (text CHECK to 66101) to receive a call back.\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The 2011 House Condition Survey reported that 42% of Northern Ireland households were in fuel poverty. This information is not available by parliamentary constituency. However, some modelling work was carried out at District Council Area (DCA) level and the 2011 figures for these DCAs were published in bands. Banded figures for the two DCAs that are most closely aligned with East Londonderry are as follows:
Coleraine (52-56%)
Limavady (47-51%).
In terms of ensuring that relevant households receive appropriate assistance, the following measures are being taken by the Housing Executive:
Housing Executive Stock
Heating programme to switch to gas, where available, and to oil or wood pellets elsewhere.
Increased levels of loft insulation in on-going maintenance programmes. All stock brought up to 150mm – now being upgraded again to 270mm.
Double Glazing programme being completed for all Housing Executive stock.
HEATSMART project provides direct energy advice to tenants getting new heating, at Change of Tenancy (COT) stage or for elderly tenants.
Tested external wall insulation on three rural cottages in Coleraine.
Technology Strategy Board (TSB) funded SIMPLER Scheme to test and install external insulation to our ‘No Fines’ dwellings in Antrim.
Electricity brokering project undertaken in 2012 and 2013; tariff sheets regarding switching electricity were provided to all tenants in 2012 and are currently provided to all new tenants at COT stage.
Renewables Programme funded in 2006/08 to install solar thermal panels in 2,030 dwellings.
Action to tackle Fuel Poverty in privately owned and privately rented sector
Housing Executive administers the Department for Social Development’s (DSD) Warm Homes Scheme, the main grant dealing with fuel poverty. (This scheme will end on 31 March 2015 and will be replaced by the Affordable Warmth Scheme.) I would encourage householders who think they may qualify for the Warm Homes Scheme to contact freephone 0800 988 0559 now. Further information about the Warm Homes Scheme can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/warm-homes-grant-scheme.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme will target privately owned and privately rented properties considered to be most at risk of fuel poverty and who have an income of less than £20,000. Further information can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/affordable-warmth-grant-scheme or 0300 200 7874.
The Housing Executive manages the Boiler Replacement Scheme on behalf of DSD. The Boiler Replacement Scheme is aimed at owner occupiers with an income of less than £40,000 and provides a grant of up to £1,000 towards replacing an old inefficient boiler with a new more energy efficient one. Further information about the Boiler Replacement Scheme can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/information-and-services/environment-and-greener-living/energy-wise/energy-saving-grants/boiler-replacement ( 03448 920 900).
Social Security Agency
In addition, my Department provides the Winter Fuel Payment and Cold Weather Payment to qualifying households. The ‘Make the Call’ campaign, where people can check they are receiving all the benefits they are entitled to, can be contacted by phoning 0800 232 1271 (text phone 0800 232 1715) or (text CHECK to 66101) to receive a call back.
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039657%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216594","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216594"}},{"id":"216593","reference":"AQW 39656/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-02","answerBy":"2014-12-17","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how his Department are working with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to ensure that the homes of older people are a priority target for fuel poverty assistance, in order to avoid ill-health during the winter months.","answerText":"Since 2001 my Department has spent over £160 million through the Warm Homes Scheme to improve the energy efficiency of more than 125,000 low income households including the homes of many older people. The Warm Homes Scheme will end in March 2015.\n\nResearch and piloting has taken place for over 2 years which has allowed us to develop a targeting tool and build fuel poverty risk maps for Northern Ireland. These maps listed the households most at risk of fuel poverty at census output area level, Councils staff involved in the pilot then called at properties in each council areas a completed a detailed survey. Assistance was then offered to the households who took part in the survey, of those homes identified more than 50% of the occupants were over 60 years of age.\n\nDuring the course of the pilots officials from my Department met with representatives from the Public Health Agency (PHA), to discuss the development of the new scheme, and the important role which PHA has to play.\n\nOn 15 September 2014 my Department introduced a new Affordable Warmth Scheme working in partnership with councils and the Housing Executive to deliver energy efficiency improvements to low income households using a targeted area based approach. I am confident that the new Affordable Warmth Scheme will improve the energy efficiency of the homes of many older people.","answerHtml":"Since 2001 my Department has spent over £160 million through the Warm Homes Scheme to improve the energy efficiency of more than 125,000 low income households including the homes of many older people. The Warm Homes Scheme will end in March 2015.
Research and piloting has taken place for over 2 years which has allowed us to develop a targeting tool and build fuel poverty risk maps for Northern Ireland. These maps listed the households most at risk of fuel poverty at census output area level, Councils staff involved in the pilot then called at properties in each council areas a completed a detailed survey. Assistance was then offered to the households who took part in the survey, of those homes identified more than 50% of the occupants were over 60 years of age.
During the course of the pilots officials from my Department met with representatives from the Public Health Agency (PHA), to discuss the development of the new scheme, and the important role which PHA has to play.
On 15 September 2014 my Department introduced a new Affordable Warmth Scheme working in partnership with councils and the Housing Executive to deliver energy efficiency improvements to low income households using a targeted area based approach. I am confident that the new Affordable Warmth Scheme will improve the energy efficiency of the homes of many older people.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039656%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216593","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216593"}},{"id":"216445","reference":"AQW 39609/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-01","answerBy":"2014-12-16","answered":"2014-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development, pursuant to AWQ 38732/11-15, what measures are in place to ensure that disability awareness and equality training is (i) available for; and (ii) attended by, all frontline public transport staff.","answerText":"I recognise the need for all frontline public transport staff to be appropriately trained in disability and equality awareness, and the role that this can play in enabling people with a disability to fully participate in the community.\n\nTranslink has confirmed that it continues to provide disability awareness training to its driving staff as part of their induction process, and that equality and diversity issues are routinely covered in training modules to enable bus drivers to achieve the Certificate of Professional Competence. All other customer-facing staff such as Conductors, station staff, customer service co-ordinators and Translink Rail Services staff also receive regular training in these areas. Translink staff are bound by the company’s Dignity at Work and Equal Opportunity policies.\n\nOther transport providers such as the Rural Community Transport Partnerships and Disability Action which are funded by my Department have confirmed that they have provided disability awareness and equality training to all front line staff.","answerHtml":"I recognise the need for all frontline public transport staff to be appropriately trained in disability and equality awareness, and the role that this can play in enabling people with a disability to fully participate in the community.
Translink has confirmed that it continues to provide disability awareness training to its driving staff as part of their induction process, and that equality and diversity issues are routinely covered in training modules to enable bus drivers to achieve the Certificate of Professional Competence. All other customer-facing staff such as Conductors, station staff, customer service co-ordinators and Translink Rail Services staff also receive regular training in these areas. Translink staff are bound by the company’s Dignity at Work and Equal Opportunity policies.
Other transport providers such as the Rural Community Transport Partnerships and Disability Action which are funded by my Department have confirmed that they have provided disability awareness and equality training to all front line staff.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039609%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216445"}},{"id":"216444","reference":"AQW 39608/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-01","answerBy":"2014-12-16","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, pursuant to AQW 38729/11-15 for a breakdown of (i) the number of Disabled Facilities Grant applications received; and (ii) the number approved, by the Northern Ireland Housing Executive in (a) Northern Ireland; and (b) East Londonderry in the 2013/2014 financial year.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that in relation to:-\n\nIn 2013/14 there were 2,535 Initial Enquiries for Disabled Facilities Grants received across Northern Ireland of which 107 originated from the East Londonderry constituency; and\n\nOver the same period there were a total of 1,177 Disabled Facilities Grants approved in Northern Ireland, 67 of which were in the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that in relation to:-
In 2013/14 there were 2,535 Initial Enquiries for Disabled Facilities Grants received across Northern Ireland of which 107 originated from the East Londonderry constituency; and
Over the same period there were a total of 1,177 Disabled Facilities Grants approved in Northern Ireland, 67 of which were in the East Londonderry constituency.
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039608%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216444"}},{"id":"216443","reference":"AQW 39607/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-01","answerBy":"2014-12-16","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how many people in each constituency were in receipt of Disability Living Allowance in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The table below details the number of Disability Living Allowance recipients in each of the last three years broken down by constituency.\n\nAug-12\tAug-13\tAug-14\nConstituency\t9,080\t9,290\t9,450\nBelfast East\nBelfast North\t15,060\t15,290\t15,750\nBelfast South\t8,580\t8,720\t8,910\nBelfast West\t17,680\t17,740\t18,040\nEast Antrim\t7,540\t7,750\t7,920\nEast Londonderry\t8,650\t9,010\t9,340\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\t9,800\t9,080\t9,390\nFoyle\t13,970\t14,160\t14,430\nLagan Valley\t7,980\t8,110\t8,380\nMid Ulster\t10,460\t10,680\t11,050\nNewry And Armagh\t12,480\t12,610\t12,870\nNorth Antrim\t8,750\t8,990\t9,350\nNorth Down\t6,470\t6,620\t6,780\nSouth Antrim\t8,280\t8,460\t8,680\nSouth Down\t11,330\t11,590\t11,820\nStrangford\t7,750\t7,900\t8,090\nUpper Bann\t13,050\t13,130\t13,460\nWest Tyrone\t13,080\t13,270\t13,600\nUnknown\t810\t2,190\t2,590\nTotal\t190,790\t194,580\t199,880\n\nThe information provided is an Official Statistic. The Production and dissemination of all such Statistics is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The table below details the number of Disability Living Allowance recipients in each of the last three years broken down by constituency.
| Aug-12 | Aug-13 | Aug-14 | |
| Constituency | 9,080 | 9,290 | 9,450 |
| Belfast East | |||
| Belfast North | 15,060 | 15,290 | 15,750 |
| Belfast South | 8,580 | 8,720 | 8,910 |
| Belfast West | 17,680 | 17,740 | 18,040 |
| East Antrim | 7,540 | 7,750 | 7,920 |
| East Londonderry | 8,650 | 9,010 | 9,340 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | 9,800 | 9,080 | 9,390 |
| Foyle | 13,970 | 14,160 | 14,430 |
| Lagan Valley | 7,980 | 8,110 | 8,380 |
| Mid Ulster | 10,460 | 10,680 | 11,050 |
| Newry And Armagh | 12,480 | 12,610 | 12,870 |
| North Antrim | 8,750 | 8,990 | 9,350 |
| North Down | 6,470 | 6,620 | 6,780 |
| South Antrim | 8,280 | 8,460 | 8,680 |
| South Down | 11,330 | 11,590 | 11,820 |
| Strangford | 7,750 | 7,900 | 8,090 |
| Upper Bann | 13,050 | 13,130 | 13,460 |
| West Tyrone | 13,080 | 13,270 | 13,600 |
| Unknown | 810 | 2,190 | 2,590 |
| Total | 190,790 | 194,580 | 199,880 |
The information provided is an Official Statistic. The Production and dissemination of all such Statistics is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039607%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216443"}},{"id":"216441","reference":"AQW 39606/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-01","answerBy":"2014-12-16","answered":"2014-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what measures are in place to protect housing tenants from eviction, as a result of their landlord facing financial difficulties, and which ensure that tenants are given sufficient notice of changes in circumstance by the property owner.","answerText":"The protection for a tenant, whose landlord is facing financial difficulty, depends on the terms of the mortgage agreement. However, where a landlord takes out a mortgage and makes the lender aware that a tenancy exists, or will exist in the accommodation, the lender could be bound by the lease. As such, if the lender gains possession of the property they may be obliged to let the lease run on until the end of the existing contractual period and accept rent from the tenant.\n\nThere is a process to be followed to end a tenancy legally. The tenant is not required to leave the property until the correct notice to quit period expires and if he/she refuses to leave at this time the landlord can only gain possession by obtaining a court order.\n\nOnce a landlord obtains a possession order from the courts they must apply to the Enforcement of Judgements Office to have it enforced. The Enforcement of Judgements Office has protocols in place which aim to keep tenants involved in cases of repossession.\n\nShould any tenant be worried about the future I would urge that they seek advice as early as possible. The nidirect website as well as organisations such as Housing Rights Service and Citizens Advice can help tenants facing eviction","answerHtml":"The protection for a tenant, whose landlord is facing financial difficulty, depends on the terms of the mortgage agreement. However, where a landlord takes out a mortgage and makes the lender aware that a tenancy exists, or will exist in the accommodation, the lender could be bound by the lease. As such, if the lender gains possession of the property they may be obliged to let the lease run on until the end of the existing contractual period and accept rent from the tenant.
There is a process to be followed to end a tenancy legally. The tenant is not required to leave the property until the correct notice to quit period expires and if he/she refuses to leave at this time the landlord can only gain possession by obtaining a court order.
Once a landlord obtains a possession order from the courts they must apply to the Enforcement of Judgements Office to have it enforced. The Enforcement of Judgements Office has protocols in place which aim to keep tenants involved in cases of repossession.
Should any tenant be worried about the future I would urge that they seek advice as early as possible. The nidirect website as well as organisations such as Housing Rights Service and Citizens Advice can help tenants facing eviction
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039606%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216441"}},{"id":"216440","reference":"AQW 39605/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-12-01","answerBy":"2014-12-16","answered":"2015-01-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 38673/11-15, what provision exists for owners of properties that are not located in areas where district rates are relatively low and therefore do not automatically qualify for the rate subsidy scheme, yet who’s rates increase disparately to others in the area.","answerText":"The £30m Scheme agreed by the Executive provides transitional support for ratepayers to protect them from the immediate effects of the formation of the new larger councils. It is necessary because of the differences that have grown up over many years in the level of District Rates between the existing councils. The Executive is not intervening beyond that and each of the 11 new councils will independently set their own single District Rate. As always this will depend on their spending decisions, as is the case with the current 26 councils.\n\nRegarding the effects of the non domestic Revaluation: some ratepayers will face increases, some will decrease and many will change little; it depends how sectors and locations have fared since 2001, the valuation date for the current Valuation List. This revaluation exercise is long overdue and has resulted in a redistribution of the rating burden. There are no plans to provide further support to those facing substantial increases due to the Revaluation. It is not a priority, it is unaffordable and it could be argued that such ratepayers have benefitted from the absence of Revaluation for many years.\n\nThe transitional relief schemes that applied at the last two non domestic Revaluations were directed at very small properties and since then the Assembly introduced the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme. During a consultation undertaken by the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy and my Department this year support was expressed for extending small business rate relief next year instead of having a special transitional relief scheme for the Revaluation.","answerHtml":"The £30m Scheme agreed by the Executive provides transitional support for ratepayers to protect them from the immediate effects of the formation of the new larger councils. It is necessary because of the differences that have grown up over many years in the level of District Rates between the existing councils. The Executive is not intervening beyond that and each of the 11 new councils will independently set their own single District Rate. As always this will depend on their spending decisions, as is the case with the current 26 councils.
Regarding the effects of the non domestic Revaluation: some ratepayers will face increases, some will decrease and many will change little; it depends how sectors and locations have fared since 2001, the valuation date for the current Valuation List. This revaluation exercise is long overdue and has resulted in a redistribution of the rating burden. There are no plans to provide further support to those facing substantial increases due to the Revaluation. It is not a priority, it is unaffordable and it could be argued that such ratepayers have benefitted from the absence of Revaluation for many years.
The transitional relief schemes that applied at the last two non domestic Revaluations were directed at very small properties and since then the Assembly introduced the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme. During a consultation undertaken by the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy and my Department this year support was expressed for extending small business rate relief next year instead of having a special transitional relief scheme for the Revaluation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039605%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216440","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216440"}},{"id":"216291","reference":"AQW 39545/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-28","answerBy":"2014-12-15","answered":"2014-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps are being taken to ensure that older carers are made aware of the support structures available to help them; and that they are offered a carer's assessment.","answerText":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have a statutory duty under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (NI) 2002 to make information regarding a carer’s right to an assessment widely available and to inform individuals of all ages directly of that right, where it appears to the Trust that an individual is carrying out that role. In doing so, all HSC Trusts have been able to demonstrate to my Department that information packs are made available to people who appear to the Trust to be carrying out a caring role.\n\nYou may also be aware that my Department collects figures on the number of carers’ assessments that are offered, and subsequently declined or completed, across the HSC on a quarterly basis. My officials use this data to analyse the performance across all HSC Trusts. With a view to driving improvements in this area, a new target was established in the Commissioning Plan Direction for 2014/15, requiring HSC Trusts to secure by 31 March 2015 a 10% increase in the number of carers’ assessments offered, as compared to the previous year.","answerHtml":"Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have a statutory duty under the Carers and Direct Payments Act (NI) 2002 to make information regarding a carer’s right to an assessment widely available and to inform individuals of all ages directly of that right, where it appears to the Trust that an individual is carrying out that role. In doing so, all HSC Trusts have been able to demonstrate to my Department that information packs are made available to people who appear to the Trust to be carrying out a caring role.
You may also be aware that my Department collects figures on the number of carers’ assessments that are offered, and subsequently declined or completed, across the HSC on a quarterly basis. My officials use this data to analyse the performance across all HSC Trusts. With a view to driving improvements in this area, a new target was established in the Commissioning Plan Direction for 2014/15, requiring HSC Trusts to secure by 31 March 2015 a 10% increase in the number of carers’ assessments offered, as compared to the previous year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039545%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216291","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216291"}},{"id":"216290","reference":"AQW 39544/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-28","answerBy":"2014-12-15","answered":"2014-12-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of people who have presented to the Housing Executive as homeless in East Londonderry, broken down by council, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The information is not available in the format requested because the Housing Executive does not collate homelessness data by Council area. However, the Housing Executive has advised that their District Office areas of Limavady and Coleraine mirror the same Council areas in East Londonderry and their Waterside office in Londonderry contains the Wards which form part of the East Londonderry constituency.\n\nTherefore, the table below provides details of the number of people who have presented to the Housing Executive as homeless in those areas.\n\nNIHE Office area\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\nColeraine\t536\t529\t533\nLimavady\t276\t295\t270\nWaterside\t571\t525\t556\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The information is not available in the format requested because the Housing Executive does not collate homelessness data by Council area. However, the Housing Executive has advised that their District Office areas of Limavady and Coleraine mirror the same Council areas in East Londonderry and their Waterside office in Londonderry contains the Wards which form part of the East Londonderry constituency.
Therefore, the table below provides details of the number of people who have presented to the Housing Executive as homeless in those areas.
| NIHE Office area | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 |
| Coleraine | 536 | 529 | 533 |
| Limavady | 276 | 295 | 270 |
| Waterside | 571 | 525 | 556 |
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039544%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216290","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216290"}},{"id":"216282","reference":"AQW 39540/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-28","answerBy":"2014-12-15","answered":"2014-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, in light of budgetary pressures, what contingency measures are in place to ensure that the road safety strategy in his Department is not negatively impacted.","answerText":"As part of the Draft Budget consultation process, information on the implications of the Executive’s Budget proposals for my Department was published on 27 November 2014.\n\nI should however emphasise that, while my Department has lead responsibility for co-coordinating a strategic approach to road safety, implementation of the measures contained in the Road Safety Strategy fall to a number of departments and agencies working in partnership, The implementation process is monitored by a Strategy Delivery Board, which comprises representatives from all of those road safety partner organisations, including the Department for Regional Development, Department of Education, PSNI, the NI Fire and Rescue Service and the NI Ambulance Service. Once the final Budget for 2015/16 is in place, decisions on implications for the Road Safety Strategy will be informed by the resources made available to all the members of the Delivery Board and their respective priorities. For my own department, I will similarly consider how to best deliver the strategy within the constraints of the resources available to me.","answerHtml":"As part of the Draft Budget consultation process, information on the implications of the Executive’s Budget proposals for my Department was published on 27 November 2014.
I should however emphasise that, while my Department has lead responsibility for co-coordinating a strategic approach to road safety, implementation of the measures contained in the Road Safety Strategy fall to a number of departments and agencies working in partnership, The implementation process is monitored by a Strategy Delivery Board, which comprises representatives from all of those road safety partner organisations, including the Department for Regional Development, Department of Education, PSNI, the NI Fire and Rescue Service and the NI Ambulance Service. Once the final Budget for 2015/16 is in place, decisions on implications for the Road Safety Strategy will be informed by the resources made available to all the members of the Delivery Board and their respective priorities. For my own department, I will similarly consider how to best deliver the strategy within the constraints of the resources available to me.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039540%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216282"}},{"id":"216275","reference":"AQW 39539/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-28","answerBy":"2014-12-15","answered":"2015-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 37833/11-15, to detail (i) the programme of support which will be given to people in East Londonderry who are long term unemployed by the Community Work Programme; (ii) when this is expected to be delivered; and (iii) how the programme will be facilitated.","answerText":"The aim of the Community Work Programme is to provide 100 participants throughout the Derry/Londonderry Social Investment zone who are either long term unemployed or are not in employment, education and training with a two year work placement. The programme will target those who are furthest from the labour market and will include fully integrated educational, essential skills and training elements tailored to the individual needs of each participant. This will allow each individual to enhance their effectiveness to potential employers. The programme is currently being prepared for open tender and the aim is to commence delivery in the 2015/16 financial year.\n\nThe lead partner for the Community Work Programme, Greater Shantallow Area Partnership will manage the project. This is in keeping with the community focussed ethos of the Social Investment Fund.","answerHtml":"The aim of the Community Work Programme is to provide 100 participants throughout the Derry/Londonderry Social Investment zone who are either long term unemployed or are not in employment, education and training with a two year work placement. The programme will target those who are furthest from the labour market and will include fully integrated educational, essential skills and training elements tailored to the individual needs of each participant. This will allow each individual to enhance their effectiveness to potential employers. The programme is currently being prepared for open tender and the aim is to commence delivery in the 2015/16 financial year.
The lead partner for the Community Work Programme, Greater Shantallow Area Partnership will manage the project. This is in keeping with the community focussed ethos of the Social Investment Fund.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039539%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216275","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216275"}},{"id":"216267","reference":"AQW 39534/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-28","answerBy":"2014-12-15","answered":"2014-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment, pursuant to AQW 38574/11-15, how many (i) community engagement sessions; (ii) participants and groups progressing action planning; (iii) mentoring sessions with relevant groups; and (iv) promotional and information events have been in East Londonderry.","answerText":"To date the activity in East Londonderry as requested has been as follows:\n\n(i) Community engagement sessions - six\n\n(ii) Participants and groups progressing action planning - five\n\n(iii) Mentoring sessions with relevant groups - eleven\n\n(iv) Promotional and information events have been in East Londonderry - four\n\nThese activities have been delivered by the three Delivery Agents who work in this constituency area, Ledcom, North West marketing and Omagh Enterprise Company. In addition to this work already completed in the East Londonderry constituency area these Delivery Agents also have a programme of planned activity to the end of their contracts. Invest NI is responsible for managing the delivery contracts.","answerHtml":"To date the activity in East Londonderry as requested has been as follows:
(i) Community engagement sessions - six
(ii) Participants and groups progressing action planning - five
(iii) Mentoring sessions with relevant groups - eleven
(iv) Promotional and information events have been in East Londonderry - four
These activities have been delivered by the three Delivery Agents who work in this constituency area, Ledcom, North West marketing and Omagh Enterprise Company. In addition to this work already completed in the East Londonderry constituency area these Delivery Agents also have a programme of planned activity to the end of their contracts. Invest NI is responsible for managing the delivery contracts.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039534%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216267","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216267"}},{"id":"216060","reference":"AQW 39467/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-12","answered":"2014-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) the appropriateness of the new computer operated check-in system in Causeway Hospital for patients who are not confident with new technologies, and (ii) the importance of initial bedside manner for those who are experiencing poor health.","answerText":"The new patient check-in service has been introduced to improve patient experience. It does not replace the check-in service which will continue to be provided by reception staff but complements existing services.\n\nWhilst the system has been designed to be simple to use and provides step-by-step instructions to take patients through the check-in process, staff will be on hand to support them with any issues they may be facing in accessing services.","answerHtml":"The new patient check-in service has been introduced to improve patient experience. It does not replace the check-in service which will continue to be provided by reception staff but complements existing services.
Whilst the system has been designed to be simple to use and provides step-by-step instructions to take patients through the check-in process, staff will be on hand to support them with any issues they may be facing in accessing services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039467%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216060","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216060"}},{"id":"216059","reference":"AQW 39466/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-12","answered":"2015-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 36611/11-15, to detail the number of local social entrepreneurs and enterprises who have accessed and used the Social Enterprise Hub, which is operational in the Northern Social Investment Fund Zone through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme.","answerText":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.\n\nAt present there are 29 groups from within the Northern Social Investment Fund Zone area who have accessed and used the services of the Northern Social Enterprise Hub.","answerHtml":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
At present there are 29 groups from within the Northern Social Investment Fund Zone area who have accessed and used the services of the Northern Social Enterprise Hub.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039466%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216059","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216059"}},{"id":"216058","reference":"AQW 39465/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-12","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what contact he has had with staff and families of patients who are receiving care in Dalriada Community Hospital, for needs other than Multiple Sclerosis Respite care, in respect of (i) the nature and timescale of their treatment; and (ii) plans to provide an alternative to care in Dalriada Hospital.","answerText":"Northern Health and Social Care Trust senior management attended Dalriada Hospital on Thursday 30 October and took time to speak with patients and staff. The Trust further met with Moyle Council representatives on Monday 3 November and attended a public meeting on the same evening.\n\nThe Trust will continue to do all it can to communicate with stakeholders to ensure everyone understands the decisions being taken. The primary obligation is for the Trust to comply with the Court’s order of 4 December concerning the granting of interim relief on the services that were temporarily closed at Dalriada Hospital.\n\nI have also spoken directly with staff, patients and family members.","answerHtml":"Northern Health and Social Care Trust senior management attended Dalriada Hospital on Thursday 30 October and took time to speak with patients and staff. The Trust further met with Moyle Council representatives on Monday 3 November and attended a public meeting on the same evening.
The Trust will continue to do all it can to communicate with stakeholders to ensure everyone understands the decisions being taken. The primary obligation is for the Trust to comply with the Court’s order of 4 December concerning the granting of interim relief on the services that were temporarily closed at Dalriada Hospital.
I have also spoken directly with staff, patients and family members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039465%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216058","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216058"}},{"id":"216057","reference":"AQW 39464/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-12","answered":"2014-12-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to clarify the rationale behind the new ‘check-in’ service for appointments which is currently operating in Causeway Hospital, replacing the initial ‘patient to staff’ contact.","answerText":"The new patient check-in service has been introduced to improve patient experience. It does not replace the check-in service which will continue to be provided by reception staff but complements existing services.\n\nWhilst the system has been designed to be simple to use and provides step-by-step instructions to take patients through the check-in process, staff will be on hand to support them with any issues they may be facing in accessing services.","answerHtml":"The new patient check-in service has been introduced to improve patient experience. It does not replace the check-in service which will continue to be provided by reception staff but complements existing services.
Whilst the system has been designed to be simple to use and provides step-by-step instructions to take patients through the check-in process, staff will be on hand to support them with any issues they may be facing in accessing services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039464%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216057","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216057"}},{"id":"216056","reference":"AQW 39463/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-12","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of students who are currently in receipt of an Education Maintenance Allowance; and what assurance he can give that money for this will be ringfenced in light of current budgetary pressures.","answerText":"In academic year 2013/14 there were 21,629 students in receipt of the means tested Educational Maintenance Allowance and it is anticipated that a similar number of students will be eligible in academic year 2014/15. The Educational Maintenance Allowance estimated budget requirement for financial year 2014/15 is £23.1 million and I can confirm that this is ring-fenced.\n\nIn relation to future funding, my Department is currently considering all options for budget savings across all spending lines. Final decisions on how the cuts will be managed will not be made until a public consultation has been completed and the detail of the cuts has been confirmed. However, my Department is preparing and planning for the financial challenges that cuts in the region of 11% will bring and is in the process of considering its work priorities to determine how the budget cuts can be absorbed.","answerHtml":"In academic year 2013/14 there were 21,629 students in receipt of the means tested Educational Maintenance Allowance and it is anticipated that a similar number of students will be eligible in academic year 2014/15. The Educational Maintenance Allowance estimated budget requirement for financial year 2014/15 is £23.1 million and I can confirm that this is ring-fenced.
In relation to future funding, my Department is currently considering all options for budget savings across all spending lines. Final decisions on how the cuts will be managed will not be made until a public consultation has been completed and the detail of the cuts has been confirmed. However, my Department is preparing and planning for the financial challenges that cuts in the region of 11% will bring and is in the process of considering its work priorities to determine how the budget cuts can be absorbed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039463%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216056"}},{"id":"216018","reference":"AQO 7224/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister why the Programme for Government 2011/15 commitment to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services has not yet been delivered.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207224%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=216018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=216018"}},{"id":"217632","reference":"AQO 7224/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-27","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":"2015-03-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister why the Programme for Government 2011/15 commitment to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services has not yet been delivered.","answerText":"We made a Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015 announcing our decision to bring forward legislative proposals to prohibit unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services. The proposed legislation will apply to people aged 16 and over.\n\nSubject to consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive agreement, we intend to issue a consultation document in the near future setting out our proposals for legislation. When we have concluded our policy consultation, and agreed a robust policy position, we will then consider all the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"We made a Written Ministerial Statement to the Assembly on 19 February 2015 announcing our decision to bring forward legislative proposals to prohibit unfair age discrimination by those providing goods, facilities and services. The proposed legislation will apply to people aged 16 and over.
Subject to consideration by the OFMDFM Committee and Executive agreement, we intend to issue a consultation document in the near future setting out our proposals for legislation. When we have concluded our policy consultation, and agreed a robust policy position, we will then consider all the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%207224%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=217632","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=217632"}},{"id":"215892","reference":"AQW 39390/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-26","answerBy":"2014-12-11","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, pursuant to AQW 38671/11-15, to detail the number of training (i) positions currently available within each of the eleven training suppliers; and (ii) suppliers in East Londonderry being used to capacity, as part of the Training for Success Programme.","answerText":"Through the Training for Success Programme, my department guarantees a training place for all 16 and 17 year olds who are not in education or employment , with extended eligibility for persons under 22 years with a disability and under 24 years for those who qualify under the Children Act NI (2002).\n\nIn line with the guarantee, there is no restriction on the number of young people that can avail of the programme and no capacity limit is set for any of the contracted training suppliers.\n\nPublished statistical information (including occupancy levels broken down by Parliamentary Constituency) is contained in the Training for Success Statistical Bulletin.\n\nThe most recent Statistical Bulletin, published on 26 November 2014, can be accessed via the link below.\n\nhttp://www.delni.gov.uk/index/publications/r-and-s-stats/tfs-and-programme-led-apprenticeships-statistical-bulletins.htm","answerHtml":"Through the Training for Success Programme, my department guarantees a training place for all 16 and 17 year olds who are not in education or employment , with extended eligibility for persons under 22 years with a disability and under 24 years for those who qualify under the Children Act NI (2002).
In line with the guarantee, there is no restriction on the number of young people that can avail of the programme and no capacity limit is set for any of the contracted training suppliers.
Published statistical information (including occupancy levels broken down by Parliamentary Constituency) is contained in the Training for Success Statistical Bulletin.
The most recent Statistical Bulletin, published on 26 November 2014, can be accessed via the link below.
http://www.delni.gov.uk/index/publications/r-and-s-stats/tfs-and-programme-led-apprenticeships-statistical-bulletins.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039390%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215892","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215892"}},{"id":"215889","reference":"AQW 39389/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-26","answerBy":"2014-12-11","answered":"2014-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 38282/11-15, when the findings of the stakeholder consultation on the review of North West Gateway Initiative will be available.","answerText":"At its plenary meeting in October 2014 the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) noted the findings of the stakeholder review of the North West Gateway Initiative (NWGI) and agreed that these should now form the basis of further consultation with relevant departments. This work is continuing and it will be for the Council to consider at a future stage the publication of any material relating to the review.","answerHtml":"At its plenary meeting in October 2014 the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) noted the findings of the stakeholder review of the North West Gateway Initiative (NWGI) and agreed that these should now form the basis of further consultation with relevant departments. This work is continuing and it will be for the Council to consider at a future stage the publication of any material relating to the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039389%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215889","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215889"}},{"id":"215887","reference":"AQW 39388/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-26","answerBy":"2014-12-11","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, pursuant to AQW 38577/11-15, what assurance he can provide that a review of current fees for the processing of driver licences, which are currently not in parity with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency, will be a priority objective during the development of a new driver licensing IT system.","answerText":"In my response to AQW 38577/11-15 I advised that the administration of driver licensing in Northern Ireland is expected, as far as possible, to be a self-financing service, with costs recovered through fee income.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Driver Licensing System (NIDLS) was developed some 30 years ago, and while some enhancements have been made to the system there has been no redesign in relation to data structure, business logic or processing since the system was first introduced.\n\nThe development of a new driver licensing system, which includes a fundamental review of business processes, will provide a range of online services and deliver efficiency savings.\n\nHowever these improvements, which will be phased in, may take some time for all of the efficiencies to be realised.\n\nIn the meantime, the DVA will continue to annually review the administration of driver licensing and, in particular, the fees charged to ensure that the service is cost effective and where efficiency savings are realised these are passed onto customers.","answerHtml":"In my response to AQW 38577/11-15 I advised that the administration of driver licensing in Northern Ireland is expected, as far as possible, to be a self-financing service, with costs recovered through fee income.
The Northern Ireland Driver Licensing System (NIDLS) was developed some 30 years ago, and while some enhancements have been made to the system there has been no redesign in relation to data structure, business logic or processing since the system was first introduced.
The development of a new driver licensing system, which includes a fundamental review of business processes, will provide a range of online services and deliver efficiency savings.
However these improvements, which will be phased in, may take some time for all of the efficiencies to be realised.
In the meantime, the DVA will continue to annually review the administration of driver licensing and, in particular, the fees charged to ensure that the service is cost effective and where efficiency savings are realised these are passed onto customers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039388%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215887","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215887"}},{"id":"215886","reference":"AQW 39387/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-26","answerBy":"2014-12-11","answered":"2015-01-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, pursuant to AQW 37644/11-15, for a breakdown by constituency of the total number of people who are employed in (i) accommodation and food service activities; and (ii) convention and trade show organisers.","answerText":"Due to the disclosive nature of the data in the “convention and trade show organisers” sector, it is not possible to provide a breakdown of the number of employee jobs in the requested sectors separately.\n\nThe combined total number of employee jobs in “accommodation and food service activities” and “convention and trade show organisers”, by constituency, is provided in Table 1 for the year 2013 (the latest available).\n\nTable 1 Total number of employee jobs in the “accommodation and food service activities” and “convention and trade show organisers” sectors\n\nParliamentary Constituency\tTotal number of employee jobs\nBelfast East\t2,357\nBelfast North\t2,461\nBelfast South\t7,923\nBelfast West\t1,345\nEast Antrim\t1,635\nEast Londonderry\t2,853\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\t2,407\nFoyle\t2,663\nLagan Valley\t1,705\nMid Ulster\t1,643\nNewry And Armagh\t2,121\nNorth Antrim\t2,303\nNorth Down\t2,212\nSouth Antrim\t1,999\nSouth Down\t2,249\nStrangford\t1,767\nUpper Bann\t2,078\nWest Tyrone\t1,416\nTotal\t43,137\n\nSource: NI Census of Employment 2013","answerHtml":"Due to the disclosive nature of the data in the “convention and trade show organisers” sector, it is not possible to provide a breakdown of the number of employee jobs in the requested sectors separately.
The combined total number of employee jobs in “accommodation and food service activities” and “convention and trade show organisers”, by constituency, is provided in Table 1 for the year 2013 (the latest available).
Table 1 Total number of employee jobs in the “accommodation and food service activities” and “convention and trade show organisers” sectors
| Parliamentary Constituency | Total number of employee jobs |
| Belfast East | 2,357 |
| Belfast North | 2,461 |
| Belfast South | 7,923 |
| Belfast West | 1,345 |
| East Antrim | 1,635 |
| East Londonderry | 2,853 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | 2,407 |
| Foyle | 2,663 |
| Lagan Valley | 1,705 |
| Mid Ulster | 1,643 |
| Newry And Armagh | 2,121 |
| North Antrim | 2,303 |
| North Down | 2,212 |
| South Antrim | 1,999 |
| South Down | 2,249 |
| Strangford | 1,767 |
| Upper Bann | 2,078 |
| West Tyrone | 1,416 |
| Total | 43,137 |
Source: NI Census of Employment 2013
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039387%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215886","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215886"}},{"id":"215884","reference":"AQW 39386/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-26","answerBy":"2014-12-11","answered":"2014-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, pursuant to AQW 38282/11-15, to detail (i) the organisational structure of the North West Gateway Initiative; (ii) the number of officials from each Department contributing to its functioning; and (iii) any associated staffing costs.","answerText":"The North West Gateway Initiative is overseen jointly by officials in the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as part of a range of other duties. Other Government Departments provide information, as required, on projects relevant to the NWGI from within their existing staffing resources. Information is not held on the number, or related costs, of staff who may be involved in this work.","answerHtml":"The North West Gateway Initiative is overseen jointly by officials in the Office of the First Minister and deputy First Minister and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade as part of a range of other duties. Other Government Departments provide information, as required, on projects relevant to the NWGI from within their existing staffing resources. Information is not held on the number, or related costs, of staff who may be involved in this work.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039386%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215884","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215884"}},{"id":"215647","reference":"AQW 39321/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-25","answerBy":"2014-12-10","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether the financial assistance for students, who have been in foster care or care of social services for a significant period of time, that this currently provided by the University of Ulster and Queen’s University, including Stranmillis University College, will be ring-fenced following budget cuts to his Department's budget.","answerText":"Access to Success, my Department’s regional strategy for widening participation, has identified care leavers as being under-represented in higher education.\n\nThrough the submission of annual Widening Access and Participation Plans the Department is able to monitor and review the work that each institution is doing to widen participation, which includes the work they are doing to encourage those from a care background to enter higher education and the subsequent support they are offered to progress through their chosen course.\n\nEach year the higher education institutions re-invest a significant proportion of their additional fee income to attract and retain students from groups that are identified as under-represented in Access to Success. However, while the Department encourages higher education institutions to make additional investment in support for students who have been in foster care or care of social services, it is a matter for each of the individual institutions to decide on the quantum of this support depending on individual circumstances.","answerHtml":"Access to Success, my Department’s regional strategy for widening participation, has identified care leavers as being under-represented in higher education.
Through the submission of annual Widening Access and Participation Plans the Department is able to monitor and review the work that each institution is doing to widen participation, which includes the work they are doing to encourage those from a care background to enter higher education and the subsequent support they are offered to progress through their chosen course.
Each year the higher education institutions re-invest a significant proportion of their additional fee income to attract and retain students from groups that are identified as under-represented in Access to Success. However, while the Department encourages higher education institutions to make additional investment in support for students who have been in foster care or care of social services, it is a matter for each of the individual institutions to decide on the quantum of this support depending on individual circumstances.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039321%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215647","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215647"}},{"id":"215623","reference":"AQW 39318/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-25","answerBy":"2014-12-10","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what plans he has to bring forward policy for schools in each of the education sectors which are not provided for under the remit of the new Education Authority.","answerText":"My Department makes policy and legislation in relation to all grant-aided schools. The Education Authority will inherit the role currently performed by the education and library boards, which is to deliver services in accordance and legislation made by the Department. In the case of voluntary grammar and grant-maintained integrated schools, the services currently provided by the education and library boards will continue to be made available by the Education Authority. These schools will continue to receive their Local Management of Schools (LMS) recurrent funding directly from the Department.","answerHtml":"My Department makes policy and legislation in relation to all grant-aided schools. The Education Authority will inherit the role currently performed by the education and library boards, which is to deliver services in accordance and legislation made by the Department. In the case of voluntary grammar and grant-maintained integrated schools, the services currently provided by the education and library boards will continue to be made available by the Education Authority. These schools will continue to receive their Local Management of Schools (LMS) recurrent funding directly from the Department.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039318%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215623","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215623"}},{"id":"215621","reference":"AQW 39317/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-25","answerBy":"2014-12-10","answered":"2014-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how he is encouraging people to seek advice on minor ailments from their pharmacist in the first instance, instead of a GP or Emergency Department.","answerText":"My Department is promoting more responsible use of Emergency Departments, Community Pharmacies and GP Practices by encouraging patients to use the service most appropriate to their symptoms through various initiatives such as the Choose Well Campaign, the Ask the Pharmacist Week and the Self Care Week.\n\nThe Choose Well campaign aims to create a better understanding among the general public of what medical care services are available to them, how and when to access these services. The Choose Well campaign ran from November 2013 – March 2014 and will run again this year. It will again focus on self care, the advice and treatment available from community pharmacies; GP Out of Hours services; Minor Injuries Units and appropriate use of Emergency Departments. The campaign will be publicised via a wide range of media such as TV, advertising posters, distribution of leaflets across various public bodies and facilities, adverts in the press and supported with the use of NI Direct website and social media.","answerHtml":"My Department is promoting more responsible use of Emergency Departments, Community Pharmacies and GP Practices by encouraging patients to use the service most appropriate to their symptoms through various initiatives such as the Choose Well Campaign, the Ask the Pharmacist Week and the Self Care Week.
The Choose Well campaign aims to create a better understanding among the general public of what medical care services are available to them, how and when to access these services. The Choose Well campaign ran from November 2013 – March 2014 and will run again this year. It will again focus on self care, the advice and treatment available from community pharmacies; GP Out of Hours services; Minor Injuries Units and appropriate use of Emergency Departments. The campaign will be publicised via a wide range of media such as TV, advertising posters, distribution of leaflets across various public bodies and facilities, adverts in the press and supported with the use of NI Direct website and social media.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039317%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215621","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215621"}},{"id":"215620","reference":"AQW 39316/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-25","answerBy":"2014-12-10","answered":"2014-12-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the administrative cost of processing (i) a single NHS HS21 prescription; and (ii) a single NHS PV1 (pharmacist) prescription, excluding the cost of the item dispensed; and how many of each of these types of prescriptions have been processed since April 2013.","answerText":"From April 2013 to October 2014 a total of 34,254,019 HS21 prescriptions have been dispensed. The dispensing fee for each item dispensed was £0.98. In the same period a total of 473,839 PV1 (pharmacist) forms were dispensed. These are used in connection with medicines prescribed by pharmacists for smoking cessation and to treat minor ailments. A PV1 form may contain more than one item. The dispensing fee for PV1 items issued in relation to smoking cessation is £0.98. The dispensing fee for each PVI item issued to treat minor ailments is £1.11 and a consultation fee of up to £8.50 can be claimed in relation to each PV1 prescription form issued for minor ailments.","answerHtml":"From April 2013 to October 2014 a total of 34,254,019 HS21 prescriptions have been dispensed. The dispensing fee for each item dispensed was £0.98. In the same period a total of 473,839 PV1 (pharmacist) forms were dispensed. These are used in connection with medicines prescribed by pharmacists for smoking cessation and to treat minor ailments. A PV1 form may contain more than one item. The dispensing fee for PV1 items issued in relation to smoking cessation is £0.98. The dispensing fee for each PVI item issued to treat minor ailments is £1.11 and a consultation fee of up to £8.50 can be claimed in relation to each PV1 prescription form issued for minor ailments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039316%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215620","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215620"}},{"id":"215619","reference":"AQW 39315/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-25","answerBy":"2014-12-10","answered":"2015-01-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the total revenue generated by prescription charges, for each of the three years preceding the abolition of prescription charges.","answerText":"The total revenue generated by prescription charges, for each of the three years preceding the abolition of prescription charges is set out as follows:\n\nYear\t£’000\n2009/2010\t10,251\n2008/2009\t12,739\n2007/2008\t14,913\n\n*Source: Final Outturn as reported to DFP.","answerHtml":"The total revenue generated by prescription charges, for each of the three years preceding the abolition of prescription charges is set out as follows:
| Year | £’000 |
| 2009/2010 | 10,251 |
| 2008/2009 | 12,739 |
| 2007/2008 | 14,913 |
*Source: Final Outturn as reported to DFP.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039315%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215619","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215619"}},{"id":"215445","reference":"AQW 39250/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-24","answerBy":"2014-12-09","answered":"2014-12-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development (i) to outline the rationale for the introduction of charges in off-street car parks on Sundays in the Coleraine area from December; (ii) what impact this will have on traders in the town centre; and (iii) how many town centre car parks will be included in this scheme.","answerText":"A number of years ago, at the request of the then Coleraine Town Centre Partnership, my Department introduced a small charge to park in the two main town centre car parks in Coleraine, at Abbey Street and The Mall, on the Sundays leading up to Christmas. This step was taken in an effort to better manage the use of the car parks, discouraging all day parkers and leaving these spaces closest to the town centre available for shoppers. This charging on Sundays leading up to Christmas has been in operation each year since 2006.\n\nThe five remaining town centre car parks in Coleraine will still be free on Sundays and during normal charging hours, all the car parks will allow 5 hours parking for the reduced rate of £1.\n\nMy Department, in conjunction with the Council, is supporting the free ‘Park & Ride’ facility on the Saturdays leading up to Christmas and additional car park information signage has been introduced.\n\nI am confident that the various measures, as outlined above, will provide a welcome boost for traders in Coleraine and encourage the public to continue to support their local economy and to shop local.","answerHtml":"A number of years ago, at the request of the then Coleraine Town Centre Partnership, my Department introduced a small charge to park in the two main town centre car parks in Coleraine, at Abbey Street and The Mall, on the Sundays leading up to Christmas. This step was taken in an effort to better manage the use of the car parks, discouraging all day parkers and leaving these spaces closest to the town centre available for shoppers. This charging on Sundays leading up to Christmas has been in operation each year since 2006.
The five remaining town centre car parks in Coleraine will still be free on Sundays and during normal charging hours, all the car parks will allow 5 hours parking for the reduced rate of £1.
My Department, in conjunction with the Council, is supporting the free ‘Park & Ride’ facility on the Saturdays leading up to Christmas and additional car park information signage has been introduced.
I am confident that the various measures, as outlined above, will provide a welcome boost for traders in Coleraine and encourage the public to continue to support their local economy and to shop local.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039250%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215445"}},{"id":"215444","reference":"AQW 39249/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-24","answerBy":"2014-12-09","answered":"2015-01-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what plans he has to extend his Department’s scheme of five hours parking for one pound.","answerText":"The five hours parking for one pound scheme is being extended into January 2015.","answerHtml":"The five hours parking for one pound scheme is being extended into January 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039249%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215444"}},{"id":"215443","reference":"AQW 39248/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-24","answerBy":"2014-12-09","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 38381/11-15, when she will receive the outcome of Sport NI’s review of the business case for the development of sports and community facilities in Dungiven.","answerText":"The business case for the development of sports and community facilities in Dungiven has been considered by Sport NI and comments have been provided to Limavady Borough Council in this regard.\n\nOfficials from my Department and Sport NI will continue to work with the Council to develop the business case. I remain committed to seeking to provide the £2.5M funding sought by Limavady Borough Council, which will be subject to budget availability and the approval of the business case which must include confirmation of partnership funding for the project.","answerHtml":"The business case for the development of sports and community facilities in Dungiven has been considered by Sport NI and comments have been provided to Limavady Borough Council in this regard.
Officials from my Department and Sport NI will continue to work with the Council to develop the business case. I remain committed to seeking to provide the £2.5M funding sought by Limavady Borough Council, which will be subject to budget availability and the approval of the business case which must include confirmation of partnership funding for the project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039248%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215443"}},{"id":"215441","reference":"AQW 39247/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-24","answerBy":"2014-12-09","answered":"2014-12-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, pursuant to AQW 38379/11-15, how many projects in the East Londonderry area are currently being considered for allocation of funding, which was awarded to her Department through the October monitoring round.","answerText":"Building on DCAL’s significant investment in the North West to date, DCAL bid to the Executive in this financial year for additional funding to maximise ongoing development of a social and economic legacy from City of Culture 2013.\n\n£3.8 million in both resource and capital funding was allocated to the Department in the October Monitoring Round to support a strategic development programme in the North West.\n\nMy priority is to address poverty and social exclusion and to deliver cultural led economic and social development in the North West. Whilst many of the projects which will receive funding are based in the Derry area, the additional funding will also strategically extend DCAL’s impact across the wider North West with a focus on enhancing capacity, building networks and embedding sustainability in Coleraine, Limavady, Strabane and their rural surrounds.\n\nTwo projects which have already received considerable funding in your constituency include the Stendhal Festival in Limavady and the North Coast Sports Village in Coleraine.\n\nAs business cases for other projects are still being finalised, I will be making further announcements in due course.","answerHtml":"Building on DCAL’s significant investment in the North West to date, DCAL bid to the Executive in this financial year for additional funding to maximise ongoing development of a social and economic legacy from City of Culture 2013.
£3.8 million in both resource and capital funding was allocated to the Department in the October Monitoring Round to support a strategic development programme in the North West.
My priority is to address poverty and social exclusion and to deliver cultural led economic and social development in the North West. Whilst many of the projects which will receive funding are based in the Derry area, the additional funding will also strategically extend DCAL’s impact across the wider North West with a focus on enhancing capacity, building networks and embedding sustainability in Coleraine, Limavady, Strabane and their rural surrounds.
Two projects which have already received considerable funding in your constituency include the Stendhal Festival in Limavady and the North Coast Sports Village in Coleraine.
As business cases for other projects are still being finalised, I will be making further announcements in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039247%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215441","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215441"}},{"id":"215431","reference":"AQW 39240/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-24","answerBy":"2014-12-09","answered":"2015-01-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the measures in place to raise awareness of public appointment opportunities amongst women and members of other under-represented groups, as a step towards encouraging these groups to apply.","answerText":"We recognise that some sections of our society, including women, are under-represented on the boards of public bodies. We are committed to achieving greater diversity in public appointments, consistent with the overall principle of selection on merit, as a means of ensuring effective public bodies.\n\nOFMDFM officials, in conjunction with other departments, are working to encourage greater participation from these groups and have put in place measures to raise awareness of public appointment opportunities amongst under-represented groups. This is an important step in encouraging a wider range of applications.\n\nSteps being taken include:\n\nthe establishment of an inter-departmental public appointments forum to share best practice across departments including increasing diversity;\n\nindependent advice provided to the public appointments forum by a senior academic with considerable experience in equality and diversity issues;\n\nproducing the twice-yearly All Aboard publication which gives details of public appointment opportunities arising over the next six months;\n\ncirculating upcoming appointment opportunities to an extensive mailing list of several hundred individuals and organisations, including private and voluntary sector women’s groups;\n\ndepartments to interview larger numbers of applicants for appointments;\n\ninformation sessions held with stakeholders and interested groups, including women’s groups, to raise awareness of public appointments and explain the process;\n\nposts on public bodies are filled to address specific skills, in order to build effective teams; and\n\ndepartments are developing alternatives to established criteria such as better use of presentations, in order to encourage more applications.\n\nWork is also ongoing to improve the baseline information available on public appointments, and to identify and address the barriers preventing people from applying for positions.","answerHtml":"We recognise that some sections of our society, including women, are under-represented on the boards of public bodies. We are committed to achieving greater diversity in public appointments, consistent with the overall principle of selection on merit, as a means of ensuring effective public bodies.
OFMDFM officials, in conjunction with other departments, are working to encourage greater participation from these groups and have put in place measures to raise awareness of public appointment opportunities amongst under-represented groups. This is an important step in encouraging a wider range of applications.
Steps being taken include:
the establishment of an inter-departmental public appointments forum to share best practice across departments including increasing diversity;
independent advice provided to the public appointments forum by a senior academic with considerable experience in equality and diversity issues;
producing the twice-yearly All Aboard publication which gives details of public appointment opportunities arising over the next six months;
circulating upcoming appointment opportunities to an extensive mailing list of several hundred individuals and organisations, including private and voluntary sector women’s groups;
departments to interview larger numbers of applicants for appointments;
information sessions held with stakeholders and interested groups, including women’s groups, to raise awareness of public appointments and explain the process;
posts on public bodies are filled to address specific skills, in order to build effective teams; and
departments are developing alternatives to established criteria such as better use of presentations, in order to encourage more applications.
Work is also ongoing to improve the baseline information available on public appointments, and to identify and address the barriers preventing people from applying for positions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039240%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215431","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215431"}},{"id":"215273","reference":"AQW 39179/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-21","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":"2014-12-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether he intends to extend the temporary work available for surplus staff from the Driver and Vehicle Agency offices in Coleraine with the Child Maintenance Services.","answerText":"The Department was able to provide the Department of the Environment with temporary work for the Driver and Vehicle Agency staff in Coleraine until December 14. This work was in preparation for Phase 2 of Child Maintenance Reform. The preparation exercise conducted in Coleraine is now in the final stages of completion and will come to a conclusion as initially anticipated at the end of December 2014.\n\nWhile I sympathise with the situation faced by the Driver and Vehicle Agency staff in Coleraine, I am unfortunately not in a position to extend the temporary work beyond December 2014.","answerHtml":"The Department was able to provide the Department of the Environment with temporary work for the Driver and Vehicle Agency staff in Coleraine until December 14. This work was in preparation for Phase 2 of Child Maintenance Reform. The preparation exercise conducted in Coleraine is now in the final stages of completion and will come to a conclusion as initially anticipated at the end of December 2014.
While I sympathise with the situation faced by the Driver and Vehicle Agency staff in Coleraine, I am unfortunately not in a position to extend the temporary work beyond December 2014.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039179%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215273","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215273"}},{"id":"215272","reference":"AQW 39178/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-21","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, following Rate Revaluation from April 2015, what mechanisms are in place to ensure that businesses currently eligible for small business rate relief are awarded.","answerText":"The Small Business Rate Relief Scheme was recently evaluated by the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy and I am currently considering their report and its findings.\n\nHowever, you should note that in the draft Budget statement I announced my intention that the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme should continue for 2015/16 rating year.\n\nWhile I intend for the eligibility criteria to remain the same next year it is likely that as a natural result of the revaluation exercise some businesses will see relief removed or reduced level of relief, whereas others will receive relief for the first time or will see an increase in the level of their relief.","answerHtml":"The Small Business Rate Relief Scheme was recently evaluated by the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy and I am currently considering their report and its findings.
However, you should note that in the draft Budget statement I announced my intention that the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme should continue for 2015/16 rating year.
While I intend for the eligibility criteria to remain the same next year it is likely that as a natural result of the revaluation exercise some businesses will see relief removed or reduced level of relief, whereas others will receive relief for the first time or will see an increase in the level of their relief.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039178%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215272","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215272"}},{"id":"215270","reference":"AQW 39177/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-21","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":"2015-01-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of the impact that rebalancing business rates will have on businesses investing in Coleraine, given that business properties on streets leading to the town centre are facing increases.","answerText":"The impact of the revaluation cannot be fully understood until new District and Regional rate poundages are known in February next year. However, the results are very much as expected, so as a revaluation seeks to follow the market, some Net Annual Values (NAV) have fallen and others have risen, based on the analysed market rental evidence. The outcome shows central prime retail values in Coleraine reducing and the secondary streets showing growth from much lower 2001 levels of value, thereby narrowing the differential between primary and secondary areas. The realignment of NAV to current values, results in increases for some parts of Coleraine leading to the town centre, although still at a lower level; this rebalancing represents a fairer share of business rates.\n\nI would share the hope of local trade bodies that a reduction of rates in prime areas of the town will regenerate the whole town centre bringing increased trade for the benefit of everyone, including those areas that will see an increased rate liability.","answerHtml":"The impact of the revaluation cannot be fully understood until new District and Regional rate poundages are known in February next year. However, the results are very much as expected, so as a revaluation seeks to follow the market, some Net Annual Values (NAV) have fallen and others have risen, based on the analysed market rental evidence. The outcome shows central prime retail values in Coleraine reducing and the secondary streets showing growth from much lower 2001 levels of value, thereby narrowing the differential between primary and secondary areas. The realignment of NAV to current values, results in increases for some parts of Coleraine leading to the town centre, although still at a lower level; this rebalancing represents a fairer share of business rates.
I would share the hope of local trade bodies that a reduction of rates in prime areas of the town will regenerate the whole town centre bringing increased trade for the benefit of everyone, including those areas that will see an increased rate liability.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039177%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215270","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215270"}},{"id":"215268","reference":"AQW 39175/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-21","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":"2015-01-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel what measures are in place to support occupants of non-domestic properties in Coleraine that are facing rate increases of more than 100 per cent, due to Rate Revaluation from April 2015.","answerText":"It is unclear of the specific case(s) that you are referring to and it is too early to know what rates bills will be, until the rate poundage is agreed early next year. Furthermore, Coleraine ratepayers are amongst those who stand to benefit from the £30m District Rates Convergence scheme. So, percentage increases in value are unlikely to translate into the same percentage increase in rates.\n\nDuring a consultation undertaken by my Department and the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy earlier this year, support was expressed for extending SBRR next year instead of having a special transitional relief scheme for the revaluation. It is also worth noting in this context that the transitional relief schemes that applied at the last two non domestic revaluations were directed at very small properties and since then the Assembly introduced the Small Business Rate Relief scheme. I have proposed in the Budget proposals that we retain this support next year at a cost of £20 million.\n\nThere are no plans to provide further support to those facing substantial increases due to the revaluation. It is not a priority, it is unaffordable and it could be argued that they have benefited from the absence of revaluation for many years.","answerHtml":"It is unclear of the specific case(s) that you are referring to and it is too early to know what rates bills will be, until the rate poundage is agreed early next year. Furthermore, Coleraine ratepayers are amongst those who stand to benefit from the £30m District Rates Convergence scheme. So, percentage increases in value are unlikely to translate into the same percentage increase in rates.
During a consultation undertaken by my Department and the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy earlier this year, support was expressed for extending SBRR next year instead of having a special transitional relief scheme for the revaluation. It is also worth noting in this context that the transitional relief schemes that applied at the last two non domestic revaluations were directed at very small properties and since then the Assembly introduced the Small Business Rate Relief scheme. I have proposed in the Budget proposals that we retain this support next year at a cost of £20 million.
There are no plans to provide further support to those facing substantial increases due to the revaluation. It is not a priority, it is unaffordable and it could be argued that they have benefited from the absence of revaluation for many years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039175%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215268","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215268"}},{"id":"215266","reference":"AQW 39173/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-21","answerBy":"2014-12-08","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what communication he has had with other Departments to identify further work for surplus staff at the Driver and Vehicle Agency offices in Coleraine; and to detail the work which he has been able to identify.","answerText":"Following the unjustified and unwarranted decision by the Department for Transport (DfT) to centralise all vehicle registration and licensing services in Swansea, I took a number of immediate steps to identify alternative employment for the staff affected.\n\nIn conjunction with the Minister for Finance and Personnel, I asked every department to introduce vacancy controls so that suitable permanent and temporary posts were offered in the first instance to surplus DVA staff.\n\nI asked each department to identify any functions that could be relocated to Coleraine. Unfortunately, other than in my own department, no department identified any permanent work to transfer to Coleraine.\n\nIn negotiations with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in Swansea, I was able to secure a small number of posts to carry out residual vehicle licensing functions. I also asked the Secretary of State to trawl all departments in Britain for back-office work that could be carried out here, however, no such work was identified.\n\nA number of temporary opportunities within my Department were made available to surplus staff, as an interim measure, to provide additional time to find permanent posts for the affected staff. In addition, the Minister for Social Development provided temporary work in Coleraine for the remaining surplus staff, for a time bound exercise to last until the end of this year. Subsequent correspondence with Minister Storey has confirmed there are no further opportunities to extend this work or transfer either permanent or temporary jobs to Coleraine.\n\nYou will be aware that in June 2014, in conjunction with the DFP Minister, I sought approval to run a ‘restricted’ NICS Voluntary Exit Scheme. The purpose of the scheme, which has been restricted to a defined geographical area, is to generate suitable additional vacancies into which the surplus staff in Coleraine can be redeployed. The Scheme was launched on 19 November and is open to some 1,700 eligible staff. Staff have until 3 December to express an interest.","answerHtml":"Following the unjustified and unwarranted decision by the Department for Transport (DfT) to centralise all vehicle registration and licensing services in Swansea, I took a number of immediate steps to identify alternative employment for the staff affected.
In conjunction with the Minister for Finance and Personnel, I asked every department to introduce vacancy controls so that suitable permanent and temporary posts were offered in the first instance to surplus DVA staff.
I asked each department to identify any functions that could be relocated to Coleraine. Unfortunately, other than in my own department, no department identified any permanent work to transfer to Coleraine.
In negotiations with the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in Swansea, I was able to secure a small number of posts to carry out residual vehicle licensing functions. I also asked the Secretary of State to trawl all departments in Britain for back-office work that could be carried out here, however, no such work was identified.
A number of temporary opportunities within my Department were made available to surplus staff, as an interim measure, to provide additional time to find permanent posts for the affected staff. In addition, the Minister for Social Development provided temporary work in Coleraine for the remaining surplus staff, for a time bound exercise to last until the end of this year. Subsequent correspondence with Minister Storey has confirmed there are no further opportunities to extend this work or transfer either permanent or temporary jobs to Coleraine.
You will be aware that in June 2014, in conjunction with the DFP Minister, I sought approval to run a ‘restricted’ NICS Voluntary Exit Scheme. The purpose of the scheme, which has been restricted to a defined geographical area, is to generate suitable additional vacancies into which the surplus staff in Coleraine can be redeployed. The Scheme was launched on 19 November and is open to some 1,700 eligible staff. Staff have until 3 December to express an interest.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039173%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215266","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215266"}},{"id":"215033","reference":"AQW 39096/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-20","answerBy":"2014-12-05","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of (a) whole time; and (b) part time Fire and Rescue workers, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) station boundaries do not directly mirror constituency boundaries. The number of firefighters is broken down by constituency, matched as closely as possible to station areas, is detailed in the tables below.\n\n(a)Wholetime Personnel\n\nConstituency\tNumber Stationed\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t5\nWest Tyrone\t18\nMid Ulster\t6\nNewry & Armagh\t47\nFoyle\t134\nEast Londonderry\t16\nNorth Antrim\t45\nEast Antrim\t12\nSouth Antrim\t11\nUpper Bann\t51\nLagan Valley\t67\tFigure includes Headquarters\nSouth Down\t5\nNorth Down\t39\nStrangford\t13\nBelfast East\t65\nBelfast North\t115\nBelfast South\t187\tFigure includes Training Centre\nBelfast West\t63\nTotal\t899\n\n(b)Retained Personnel\n\nLocation\tNumber Stationed\nEast Antrim\t61\nEast Londonderry\t98\nFermanagh & South Tyrone\t100\nFoyle\t11\nLagan Valley\t29\nMid Ulster\t73\nNewry & Armagh\t79\nNorth Antrim\t65\nNorth Down\t43\nSouth Antrim\t66\nSouth Down\t122\nStrangford\t65\nUpper Bann\t53\nWest Tyrone\t98\nTotal\t963","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) station boundaries do not directly mirror constituency boundaries. The number of firefighters is broken down by constituency, matched as closely as possible to station areas, is detailed in the tables below.
(a)Wholetime Personnel
| Constituency | Number Stationed | |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 5 | |
| West Tyrone | 18 | |
| Mid Ulster | 6 | |
| Newry & Armagh | 47 | |
| Foyle | 134 | |
| East Londonderry | 16 | |
| North Antrim | 45 | |
| East Antrim | 12 | |
| South Antrim | 11 | |
| Upper Bann | 51 | |
| Lagan Valley | 67 | Figure includes Headquarters |
| South Down | 5 | |
| North Down | 39 | |
| Strangford | 13 | |
| Belfast East | 65 | |
| Belfast North | 115 | |
| Belfast South | 187 | Figure includes Training Centre |
| Belfast West | 63 | |
| Total | 899 |
(b)Retained Personnel
| Location | Number Stationed | |
| East Antrim | 61 | |
| East Londonderry | 98 | |
| Fermanagh & South Tyrone | 100 | |
| Foyle | 11 | |
| Lagan Valley | 29 | |
| Mid Ulster | 73 | |
| Newry & Armagh | 79 | |
| North Antrim | 65 | |
| North Down | 43 | |
| South Antrim | 66 | |
| South Down | 122 | |
| Strangford | 65 | |
| Upper Bann | 53 | |
| West Tyrone | 98 | |
| Total | 963 |
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service has confirmed that an ambulance came under attack while the crew was attending to an injured person in the vehicle. The vehicle was damaged and there was reduced cover in the Coleraine area for a period of approximately two hours due to the incident.
It is appalling that some members of the public should behave in this fashion and such behaviour must not be tolerated. I pay tribute to the professionalism, courage and dedication of the ambulance crew, who resumed duty a short time later.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039095%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215032","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215032"}},{"id":"215031","reference":"AQW 39094/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-20","answerBy":"2014-12-05","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of recorded incidences in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, which have been attended by the Fire and Rescue Service, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The number of mobilisations by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue in Northern Ireland and East Londonderry in each of the last three years was:\n\nNorthern Ireland\tEast Londonderry\n2013/14\t24,049\t1,186\n2012/13\t24,308\t1,232\n2011/12\t27,150\t1,478","answerHtml":"The number of mobilisations by the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue in Northern Ireland and East Londonderry in each of the last three years was:
| Northern Ireland | East Londonderry | |
| 2013/14 | 24,049 | 1,186 |
| 2012/13 | 24,308 | 1,232 |
| 2011/12 | 27,150 | 1,478 |
The Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS) has been asked, as part of the Department’s planning process for 2015/16, to develop a range of savings proposals that could deliver the best possible outcomes under three scenarios, 5%, 10% and 15% .
NIFRS has been asked to risk assess and prioritise their savings proposals to minimise the impact on service delivery.
My officials are engaged in ongoing communications with NIFRS.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039093%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215030","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215030"}},{"id":"215029","reference":"AQW 39092/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-20","answerBy":"2014-12-05","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of people who have (i) applied for; and (ii) been awarded a short term advance of benefit, since April 2013, broken down by constituency.","answerText":"The information requested is not available. Northern Ireland legislation does not currently provide for Short Term Benefit Advances as this is included in the Welfare Reform Bill. However, under the existing Discretionary Social Fund Scheme Crisis Loan alignment payments, which will be replaced by Short Term Benefit Advances, are made to people awaiting their first payment of benefit, which is paid in arrears. Crisis Loan payments made in these circumstances are intended to cover the day to day living expenses until the first benefit payday, following which full payment of benefit can be made. The number of Crisis Loan alignment payments applied for and awarded from April 2013 until 30 June 2014, broken down by constituency is shown in the Table below:\n\nConstituency Area\t01/04/2013 – 31/03/2014\t01/04/2014 – 30/06/2014 ***\nApplications *\tAwards *\tApplications *\tAwards *\nBelfast East\t470\t410\t100\t90\nBelfast North\t1640\t1450\t330\t270\nBelfast South\t550\t500\t100\t90\nBelfast West\t1,350\t1,270\t250\t220\nEast Antrim\t750\t610\t140\t120\nEast Londonderry\t640\t560\t170\t150\nFermanagh And South Tyrone\t320\t290\t100\t80\nFoyle\t2,890\t2,440\t290\t250\nLagan Valley\t310\t290\t80\t70\nMid Ulster\t610\t520\t80\t70\nNewry And Armagh\t610\t520\t120\t100\nNorth Antrim\t760\t620\t140\t120\nNorth Down\t410\t350\t70\t60\nSouth Antrim\t550\t470\t110\t100\nSouth Down\t450\t390\t120\t100\nStrangford\t500\t410\t120\t90\nUpper Bann\t480\t430\t80\t70\nWest Tyrone\t770\t640\t40\t40\nUnknown **\t560\t500\t170\t150\nTotal\t14,610\t12,660\t2600\t2220\n\n* Figures rounded to the nearest 10, Total may not sum due to roundings.\n\n** Where it was not possible to allocate Applications/awards to a Constituency they were classified as Unknown.\n\n*** The period ending 30/06/2014 is the most up to date information available.\n\nThe information provided is an Official Statistic. The production of all such statistics is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by the UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not available. Northern Ireland legislation does not currently provide for Short Term Benefit Advances as this is included in the Welfare Reform Bill. However, under the existing Discretionary Social Fund Scheme Crisis Loan alignment payments, which will be replaced by Short Term Benefit Advances, are made to people awaiting their first payment of benefit, which is paid in arrears. Crisis Loan payments made in these circumstances are intended to cover the day to day living expenses until the first benefit payday, following which full payment of benefit can be made. The number of Crisis Loan alignment payments applied for and awarded from April 2013 until 30 June 2014, broken down by constituency is shown in the Table below:
| Constituency Area | 01/04/2013 – 31/03/2014 | 01/04/2014 – 30/06/2014 *** | ||
| Applications * | Awards * | Applications * | Awards * | |
| Belfast East | 470 | 410 | 100 | 90 |
| Belfast North | 1640 | 1450 | 330 | 270 |
| Belfast South | 550 | 500 | 100 | 90 |
| Belfast West | 1,350 | 1,270 | 250 | 220 |
| East Antrim | 750 | 610 | 140 | 120 |
| East Londonderry | 640 | 560 | 170 | 150 |
| Fermanagh And South Tyrone | 320 | 290 | 100 | 80 |
| Foyle | 2,890 | 2,440 | 290 | 250 |
| Lagan Valley | 310 | 290 | 80 | 70 |
| Mid Ulster | 610 | 520 | 80 | 70 |
| Newry And Armagh | 610 | 520 | 120 | 100 |
| North Antrim | 760 | 620 | 140 | 120 |
| North Down | 410 | 350 | 70 | 60 |
| South Antrim | 550 | 470 | 110 | 100 |
| South Down | 450 | 390 | 120 | 100 |
| Strangford | 500 | 410 | 120 | 90 |
| Upper Bann | 480 | 430 | 80 | 70 |
| West Tyrone | 770 | 640 | 40 | 40 |
| Unknown ** | 560 | 500 | 170 | 150 |
| Total | 14,610 | 12,660 | 2600 | 2220 |
* Figures rounded to the nearest 10, Total may not sum due to roundings.
** Where it was not possible to allocate Applications/awards to a Constituency they were classified as Unknown.
*** The period ending 30/06/2014 is the most up to date information available.
The information provided is an Official Statistic. The production of all such statistics is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by the UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039092%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=215029","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=215029"}},{"id":"214808","reference":"AQW 39029/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-19","answerBy":"2014-12-04","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether the recent £5million investment in the Translink fleet, which will update the Coleraine Town service, will also allow surrounding rural areas to receive improved public transport provision.","answerText":"All of the buses used to provide town services in Coleraine will be replaced with seven new buses, to provide a smoother, quieter, more fuel efficient and more environmentally-friendly service for the passenger. Currently six of the seven vehicles are in operation in Coleraine, with the seventh expected to enter service shortly. These vehicles were replacements for existing life-expired buses within the current fleet, and are not additional vehicles. They will be used predominately on existing Town Service routes.\n\nMy Department currently provides support to Translink from the Rural Transport Fund to provide rural services which would otherwise be uneconomic to run but deemed socially necessary in the Coleraine area. These services are the Causeway Rambler and the Ballycastle to Coleraine service.\n\nMy Department also fund the North Coast Community Transport Partnership (NCCTP), and it provides Dial-A-Lift services in rural areas within the Coleraine Council area to members.","answerHtml":"All of the buses used to provide town services in Coleraine will be replaced with seven new buses, to provide a smoother, quieter, more fuel efficient and more environmentally-friendly service for the passenger. Currently six of the seven vehicles are in operation in Coleraine, with the seventh expected to enter service shortly. These vehicles were replacements for existing life-expired buses within the current fleet, and are not additional vehicles. They will be used predominately on existing Town Service routes.
My Department currently provides support to Translink from the Rural Transport Fund to provide rural services which would otherwise be uneconomic to run but deemed socially necessary in the Coleraine area. These services are the Causeway Rambler and the Ballycastle to Coleraine service.
My Department also fund the North Coast Community Transport Partnership (NCCTP), and it provides Dial-A-Lift services in rural areas within the Coleraine Council area to members.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039029%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214808"}},{"id":"214804","reference":"AQW 39028/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-19","answerBy":"2014-12-04","answered":"2014-12-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of students that graduated from the University of Ulster Business School, in each of the last three years, broken down by Campus.","answerText":"Departmental officials contacted the University of Ulster for the requested information, which can be found at Annex A.\n\nAnnex A\n\nGraduates from Ulster Business School by campus 11/12 - 13/14\n11/12\t12/13\t13/14\nBelfast\tUndergraduate\tFull time\t46\t54\t60\nPart time\t4\t25\t23\nPostgraduate taught\tFull time\t22\t12\t12\nPart time\t4\t6\t4\nBelfast campus total\t\t76\t97\t99\nColeraine\tUndergraduate\tFull time\t234\t258\t273\nPart time\t17\t13\t7\nPostgraduate taught\tFull time\t23\t13\t7\nPart time\t7\t2\nPostgraduate research\tFull time\t4\t\t1\nColeraine campus total\t\t285\t286\t288\nJordanstown\tUndergraduate\tFull time\t398\t390\t381\nPart time\t1,129\t757\t585\nPostgraduate taught\tFull time\t163\t151\t144\nPart time\t127\t135\t120\nPostgraduate research\tFull time\t2\t3\t3\nPart time\t1\t3\t3\nJordanstown campus total\t\t1,820\t1,439\t1,236\nMagee\tUndergraduate\tFull time\t143\t151\t122\nPart time\t26\t33\t34\nPostgraduate taught\tFull time\t28\t13\t22\nPart time\t25\t16\t35\nPostgraduate research\tFull time\t1\t1\nMagee campus total\t\t223\t214\t213\nBirmingham\tUndergraduate\tFull time\t\t5\t117\nPostgraduate taught\tFull time\t39\t79\t95\nBirmingham campus total\t\t39\t84\t212\nLondon\tUndergraduate\tFull time\t\t20\t245\nPostgraduate taught\tFull time\t79\t194\t209\nLondon campus total\t\t79\t214\t454\nUlster Business School total\t\t\t2,522\t2,334\t2,502\nGraduates from Ulster Business School by campus 11/12 - 13/14","answerHtml":"Departmental officials contacted the University of Ulster for the requested information, which can be found at Annex A.
Annex A
| Graduates from Ulster Business School by campus 11/12 - 13/14 | |||||
| 11/12 | 12/13 | 13/14 | |||
| Belfast | Undergraduate | Full time | 46 | 54 | 60 |
| Part time | 4 | 25 | 23 | ||
| Postgraduate taught | Full time | 22 | 12 | 12 | |
| Part time | 4 | 6 | 4 | ||
| Belfast campus total | 76 | 97 | 99 | ||
| Coleraine | Undergraduate | Full time | 234 | 258 | 273 |
| Part time | 17 | 13 | 7 | ||
| Postgraduate taught | Full time | 23 | 13 | 7 | |
| Part time | 7 | 2 | |||
| Postgraduate research | Full time | 4 | 1 | ||
| Coleraine campus total | 285 | 286 | 288 | ||
| Jordanstown | Undergraduate | Full time | 398 | 390 | 381 |
| Part time | 1,129 | 757 | 585 | ||
| Postgraduate taught | Full time | 163 | 151 | 144 | |
| Part time | 127 | 135 | 120 | ||
| Postgraduate research | Full time | 2 | 3 | 3 | |
| Part time | 1 | 3 | 3 | ||
| Jordanstown campus total | 1,820 | 1,439 | 1,236 | ||
| Magee | Undergraduate | Full time | 143 | 151 | 122 |
| Part time | 26 | 33 | 34 | ||
| Postgraduate taught | Full time | 28 | 13 | 22 | |
| Part time | 25 | 16 | 35 | ||
| Postgraduate research | Full time | 1 | 1 | ||
| Magee campus total | 223 | 214 | 213 | ||
| Birmingham | Undergraduate | Full time | 5 | 117 | |
| Postgraduate taught | Full time | 39 | 79 | 95 | |
| Birmingham campus total | 39 | 84 | 212 | ||
| London | Undergraduate | Full time | 20 | 245 | |
| Postgraduate taught | Full time | 79 | 194 | 209 | |
| London campus total | 79 | 214 | 454 | ||
| Ulster Business School total | 2,522 | 2,334 | 2,502 | ||
| Graduates from Ulster Business School by campus 11/12 - 13/14 |
Personal Independence Payment has not been introduced in Northern Ireland. It is part of the Welfare Reform Bill which has not completed its passage through the Northern Ireland Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039024%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214773","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214773"}},{"id":"214771","reference":"AQW 39023/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-19","answerBy":"2014-12-04","answered":"2014-12-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for an update, including the timescale, on any guarantee of assurance that he has received from the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency in Swansea that it will contribute to an early-exit scheme for employers which may provide previous Driver and Vehicle Agency workers from Coleraine with civil service employment in the North West.","answerText":"The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has agreed to contribute financially to the NICS Administrative Assistant (AA) and Administrative Officer (AO) (Restricted Locations) Voluntary Exit Scheme which was launched on Wednesday 19 November 2014.\n\nThe purpose of the Scheme is to clear the DVA surplus at AA and AO grades within the designated area defined in the Scheme Notice, either directly by releasing eligible surplus DVA staff or indirectly by releasing eligible non-DVA surplus staff where this creates a suitable vacancy into which a DVA surplus can be permanently redeployed.\n\nThe Scheme will therefore provide opportunities for any remaining surplus DVA staff who do not leave the Service under the terms of the scheme to be permanently redeployed into NICS posts within the designated area which includes the North West.\n\nThe closing date for eligible staff to submit a formal application to exit under the Scheme is Wednesday 7 January 2015.","answerHtml":"The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) has agreed to contribute financially to the NICS Administrative Assistant (AA) and Administrative Officer (AO) (Restricted Locations) Voluntary Exit Scheme which was launched on Wednesday 19 November 2014.
The purpose of the Scheme is to clear the DVA surplus at AA and AO grades within the designated area defined in the Scheme Notice, either directly by releasing eligible surplus DVA staff or indirectly by releasing eligible non-DVA surplus staff where this creates a suitable vacancy into which a DVA surplus can be permanently redeployed.
The Scheme will therefore provide opportunities for any remaining surplus DVA staff who do not leave the Service under the terms of the scheme to be permanently redeployed into NICS posts within the designated area which includes the North West.
The closing date for eligible staff to submit a formal application to exit under the Scheme is Wednesday 7 January 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039023%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214771","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214771"}},{"id":"214769","reference":"AQW 39022/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-19","answerBy":"2014-12-04","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what support exists for people with a disability who are living in severe hardship, due to their Disability Living Allowance being cut, until they can prove that they are eligible for the replacement Personal Independence Payment.","answerText":"No Disability Living Allowance claimants are having their benefit cut until they can prove that they are eligible for Personal Independence Payment. This is because Personal Independence Payment has not been introduced in Northern Ireland.\n\nSubject to the Welfare Reform Bill successfully completing its passage through the Northern Ireland Assembly all existing Disability Living Allowance working age claimants (age 16-64) will be reassessed for Personal Independence Payment over a period of time. Under that reassessment process the claimant continues to receive Disability Living Allowance at the same rate until their PIP eligibility is determined.","answerHtml":"No Disability Living Allowance claimants are having their benefit cut until they can prove that they are eligible for Personal Independence Payment. This is because Personal Independence Payment has not been introduced in Northern Ireland.
Subject to the Welfare Reform Bill successfully completing its passage through the Northern Ireland Assembly all existing Disability Living Allowance working age claimants (age 16-64) will be reassessed for Personal Independence Payment over a period of time. Under that reassessment process the claimant continues to receive Disability Living Allowance at the same rate until their PIP eligibility is determined.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2039022%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214769","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214769"}},{"id":"214498","reference":"AQW 38942/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-18","answerBy":"2014-12-03","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what assurance he can give that other community hospitals will be allowed to continue to provide vital palliative and rehabilitation services in their communities.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Trusts’ Contingency Plans for 2014/15 are available on my Department’s website. The plans set out the Trusts’ proposals for temporary changes in service delivery.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Trusts’ Contingency Plans for 2014/15 are available on my Department’s website. The plans set out the Trusts’ proposals for temporary changes in service delivery.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038942%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214498","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214498"}},{"id":"214497","reference":"AQW 38941/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-18","answerBy":"2014-11-21","answered":"2014-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what mechanisms are in place to ensure that planned November admissions to the Multiple Sclerosis Respite Unit in Dalriada Hospital are not overlooked, and that these patients receive sufficient care for their specific needs.","answerText":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) has provided assurance that anyone who has been booked into the respite centre in Dalriada Hospital in November will have no change to their booking. For those who require respite services after the end of November, the NHSCT will continue to meet their assessed needs and the Trust’s staff are currently meeting with service users and their carers to discuss those needs and agree suitable alternative arrangements.","answerHtml":"The Northern Health and Social Care Trust (NHSCT) has provided assurance that anyone who has been booked into the respite centre in Dalriada Hospital in November will have no change to their booking. For those who require respite services after the end of November, the NHSCT will continue to meet their assessed needs and the Trust’s staff are currently meeting with service users and their carers to discuss those needs and agree suitable alternative arrangements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038941%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214497"}},{"id":"214496","reference":"AQW 38940/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-18","answerBy":"2014-12-03","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) what communication his Department have had with Community Technical Aid (CTA); and (ii) the role of CTA, including any current work, within communities in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Department for Social Development has communicated with Community Technical Aid (CTA) (now known as Community Places) in 2012 in relation to a review of the Regional Infrastructure Programme; between 2009 and 2011 as the lead partner in a consortium to assist DSD in the development of a Strategy and Policy Framework for Urban Regeneration and Community Development in Northern Ireland; and in 2007 when CTA was appointed as an intermediary body to deliver the Modernisation Fund Capital Programme. In 2012 DSD responded to concerns raised in connection with their unsuccessful expression of interest as lead partner of a consortium bidding to deliver generic support services to the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) across NI. In 2007 CTA was part of a consortium appointed as the intermediary body responsible for the administration of the Modernisation Fund Capital Programme. CTA’s role as part of this consortium was to supply technical advice to successful applicants of the funding programme.\n\nMy Department is not presently in communication with Community Places.","answerHtml":"The Department for Social Development has communicated with Community Technical Aid (CTA) (now known as Community Places) in 2012 in relation to a review of the Regional Infrastructure Programme; between 2009 and 2011 as the lead partner in a consortium to assist DSD in the development of a Strategy and Policy Framework for Urban Regeneration and Community Development in Northern Ireland; and in 2007 when CTA was appointed as an intermediary body to deliver the Modernisation Fund Capital Programme. In 2012 DSD responded to concerns raised in connection with their unsuccessful expression of interest as lead partner of a consortium bidding to deliver generic support services to the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS) across NI. In 2007 CTA was part of a consortium appointed as the intermediary body responsible for the administration of the Modernisation Fund Capital Programme. CTA’s role as part of this consortium was to supply technical advice to successful applicants of the funding programme.
My Department is not presently in communication with Community Places.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038940%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214496","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214496"}},{"id":"214495","reference":"AQW 38939/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-18","answerBy":"2014-12-03","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what will become of the equipment used for the provision of services, including transport, specifically for Multiple Sclerosis patients at Dalriada Hospital, during the temporary period of closure.","answerText":"During the temporary closure period, the majority of equipment will remain on site. When an option for the re-provision of bed-based multiple sclerosis respite care has been agreed then, if required, any equipment could be loaned as necessary to the provider by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.\n\nThe multiple sclerosis bus will remain on site.","answerHtml":"During the temporary closure period, the majority of equipment will remain on site. When an option for the re-provision of bed-based multiple sclerosis respite care has been agreed then, if required, any equipment could be loaned as necessary to the provider by the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.
The multiple sclerosis bus will remain on site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038939%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214495"}},{"id":"214494","reference":"AQW 38938/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-18","answerBy":"2014-12-03","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the mechanisms, including timescale, by which he was made aware of the geographical remit, and specific nature, of the services provided by the Multiple Sclerosis Respite Unit in Dalriada Hospital.","answerText":"The Northern Trust Health and Social Care Trust’s final contingency plan was submitted to my Department on 23 October 2014. The contingency plan included a proposal recommending the temporary closure of the MS Respite Unit from 30 November 2014.","answerHtml":"The Northern Trust Health and Social Care Trust’s final contingency plan was submitted to my Department on 23 October 2014. The contingency plan included a proposal recommending the temporary closure of the MS Respite Unit from 30 November 2014.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038938%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214494"}},{"id":"214360","reference":"AQW 38892/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-17","answerBy":"2014-12-02","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the impact of the inaugural all-island Palliative Care Week; and how he intends to use the momentum to support the provision of Palliative Care in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The inaugural all-island Palliative Care Week was held between 6 and 11 October 2014 and led by the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care. My Department, together with the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Health and Social Care Trusts supported Palliative Care Week by contributing to the content and message of the “Making the Most of Life” media campaign and through facilitating the co-ordination of publicity and information events in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe momentum gained from Palliative Care Week will support the on-going work being taken forward by the HSCB and PHA as part of the implementation of my Department’s regional strategy for palliative and end of life care for adults: “Living Matters: Dying Matters”. It will also support the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care initiative currently being taken forward by the HSCB and PHA in conjunction with Marie Curie. This initiative has identified eight work-streams which seek to improve how palliative and end of life care is delivered, including support for patients and carers, enhanced access to care services at home and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.\n\nThe “Living Matters:Dying Matters” Strategy, includes a recommendation to promote and encourage open discussion about palliative and end of life care through media, education and awareness programmes aimed at the public and the health and social care sector. A survey carried out directly after the campaign found that 26% of a weighted population sample of adults in Northern Ireland identified raised awareness around Palliative Care Week, with 63% of those aware of the campaign reporting that it had made a positive difference to their understanding of palliative care.\n\nDuring Palliative Care Week, the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, supported by the PHA in Northern Ireland and the Health Service Executive in the Republic of Ireland, published the results of the first phase of the ‘Let’s Talk About …’ survey, which sought to capture the experiences of patients at end of life and their carers. The second phase of the survey, aimed at assessing changes in attitudes towards palliative care, was also launched during the campaign week. The second phase findings will be available in October 2015.","answerHtml":"The inaugural all-island Palliative Care Week was held between 6 and 11 October 2014 and led by the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care. My Department, together with the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and the Health and Social Care Trusts supported Palliative Care Week by contributing to the content and message of the “Making the Most of Life” media campaign and through facilitating the co-ordination of publicity and information events in Northern Ireland.
The momentum gained from Palliative Care Week will support the on-going work being taken forward by the HSCB and PHA as part of the implementation of my Department’s regional strategy for palliative and end of life care for adults: “Living Matters: Dying Matters”. It will also support the Transforming Your Palliative and End of Life Care initiative currently being taken forward by the HSCB and PHA in conjunction with Marie Curie. This initiative has identified eight work-streams which seek to improve how palliative and end of life care is delivered, including support for patients and carers, enhanced access to care services at home and identification and planning for people with palliative care needs.
The “Living Matters:Dying Matters” Strategy, includes a recommendation to promote and encourage open discussion about palliative and end of life care through media, education and awareness programmes aimed at the public and the health and social care sector. A survey carried out directly after the campaign found that 26% of a weighted population sample of adults in Northern Ireland identified raised awareness around Palliative Care Week, with 63% of those aware of the campaign reporting that it had made a positive difference to their understanding of palliative care.
During Palliative Care Week, the All Ireland Institute of Hospice and Palliative Care, supported by the PHA in Northern Ireland and the Health Service Executive in the Republic of Ireland, published the results of the first phase of the ‘Let’s Talk About …’ survey, which sought to capture the experiences of patients at end of life and their carers. The second phase of the survey, aimed at assessing changes in attitudes towards palliative care, was also launched during the campaign week. The second phase findings will be available in October 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038892%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214360"}},{"id":"214359","reference":"AQW 38891/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-17","answerBy":"2014-12-02","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps his Department is taking to encourage a culture of awareness and early intervention in mental ill-health in young people, in order to promote alternatives to pharmacological interventions.","answerText":"A Regional Model for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) was published by my Department in 2012. It focuses on early intervention and is currently being implemented. Progress includes the recent establishment of Primary Mental Health Teams in each Trust area to promote the emotional health of children, young people and families in the community. These teams identify mental health and developmental problems in children and young people early in their development and work across boundaries to develop a coordinated response for children’s mental health between agencies.\n\nThe Public Health Agency (PHA) commissions and supports a range of services to promote better mental health at an individual and community level. This activity includes the design and delivery of mental health public information campaigns, often with a focus on young people, to address mental health stigma, improve awareness of mental health issues, and encourage help seeking behaviour.\n\nRecent investment has also been focused on the establishment of Primary Care Talking Therapy and Wellbeing Hubs across the region in order to improve access to low intensity psychological care and help deliver more effective intervention at an early stage which, in turn, should reduce reliance on pharmacological interventions.","answerHtml":"A Regional Model for Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS) was published by my Department in 2012. It focuses on early intervention and is currently being implemented. Progress includes the recent establishment of Primary Mental Health Teams in each Trust area to promote the emotional health of children, young people and families in the community. These teams identify mental health and developmental problems in children and young people early in their development and work across boundaries to develop a coordinated response for children’s mental health between agencies.
The Public Health Agency (PHA) commissions and supports a range of services to promote better mental health at an individual and community level. This activity includes the design and delivery of mental health public information campaigns, often with a focus on young people, to address mental health stigma, improve awareness of mental health issues, and encourage help seeking behaviour.
Recent investment has also been focused on the establishment of Primary Care Talking Therapy and Wellbeing Hubs across the region in order to improve access to low intensity psychological care and help deliver more effective intervention at an early stage which, in turn, should reduce reliance on pharmacological interventions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038891%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214359"}},{"id":"214358","reference":"AQW 38890/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-17","answerBy":"2014-12-02","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of people in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in receipt of (i) residential care packages; (ii) meals service care packages, and (iii) home help care packages, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"(i) Information on the number of residential care packages in effect in the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust at the end of each quarter in the last three years is detailed in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1\n\nResidential Care Packages in Effect at\n31 Dec\n2011\t31 Mar\n2012\t30 Jun\n2012\t30 Sep 2012\t31 Dec\n2012\t31 Mar\n2013\t30 Jun\n2013\t30 Sep\n2013\t31 Dec\n2013\t31 Mar\n2014\t30 Jun\n2014\t30 Sep\n2014\n961\t1,012\t1,025\t1,012\t1,000\t969\t957\t958\t960\t942\t937\t939\n\nSource: CC7 community information return\n\nInformation on care packages is available on the DHSSPS website at: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/residential-nursing-care-packages.htm\n\n(ii) Information is available on the number of persons receiving a meals on wheels service in the Northern HSC Trust at 31 March in each of the last three years, as detailed in Table 2 below.\n\nTable 2\n\nPersons Receiving Meals on Wheels at 31 March 1, 2\n2012\t2013\t2014\n696\t565\t437\n\nSource: KMW2 community information return\n\n1 Figures include services provided by private contractors.\n\n2 Figures include the provision of frozen meals.\n\nThis information is published annually in the ‘Statistics on Community Care for Adults in Northern Ireland’ bulletin which can be found on the DHSSPS website at:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/meals-on-wheels.htm\n\n(iii) It is assumed that the term home help in the question relates to domiciliary care. Information is available on the number of persons receiving domiciliary care in the Northern HSC Trust during a survey week in September in each of the last three years, as detailed in Table 3 below.\n\nTable 3\n\nClients Receiving Domiciliary Care during a survey week in September in\n2011\t2012\t2013\n4,231\t4,623\t4,778\n\nSource: CC7b community information return\n\nThis information is published annually in the ‘Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland’ bulletin which can be found on the DHSSPS website at:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/domiciliary-care.htm\n\nInformation relating to the survey week in September 2014 will be published on 12th February 2015.","answerHtml":"(i) Information on the number of residential care packages in effect in the Northern Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust at the end of each quarter in the last three years is detailed in Table 1 below.
Table 1
| Residential Care Packages in Effect at | |||||||||||
| 31 Dec 2011 | 31 Mar 2012 | 30 Jun 2012 | 30 Sep 2012 | 31 Dec 2012 | 31 Mar 2013 | 30 Jun 2013 | 30 Sep 2013 | 31 Dec 2013 | 31 Mar 2014 | 30 Jun 2014 | 30 Sep 2014 |
| 961 | 1,012 | 1,025 | 1,012 | 1,000 | 969 | 957 | 958 | 960 | 942 | 937 | 939 |
Source: CC7 community information return
Information on care packages is available on the DHSSPS website at: http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/residential-nursing-care-packages.htm
(ii) Information is available on the number of persons receiving a meals on wheels service in the Northern HSC Trust at 31 March in each of the last three years, as detailed in Table 2 below.
Table 2
| Persons Receiving Meals on Wheels at 31 March 1, 2 | ||
| 2012 | 2013 | 2014 |
| 696 | 565 | 437 |
Source: KMW2 community information return
1 Figures include services provided by private contractors.
2 Figures include the provision of frozen meals.
This information is published annually in the ‘Statistics on Community Care for Adults in Northern Ireland’ bulletin which can be found on the DHSSPS website at:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/meals-on-wheels.htm
(iii) It is assumed that the term home help in the question relates to domiciliary care. Information is available on the number of persons receiving domiciliary care in the Northern HSC Trust during a survey week in September in each of the last three years, as detailed in Table 3 below.
Table 3
| Clients Receiving Domiciliary Care during a survey week in September in | ||
| 2011 | 2012 | 2013 |
| 4,231 | 4,623 | 4,778 |
Source: CC7b community information return
This information is published annually in the ‘Domiciliary Care Services for Adults in Northern Ireland’ bulletin which can be found on the DHSSPS website at:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/statistics/socialcare/domiciliary-care.htm
Information relating to the survey week in September 2014 will be published on 12th February 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038890%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214358"}},{"id":"214356","reference":"AQW 38889/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-17","answerBy":"2014-12-02","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the proposed establishment of primary care talking therapies hubs in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board is at the start of a five year plan to establish Primary Care Talking Therapies Hubs across each Trust area. The Hubs will focus on providing a range of psychological therapies (such as counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy) and lifestyle support for people who are experiencing common mental health problems. The Hubs are being developed around General Practice and when fully developed will improve access to earlier support and care.\n\nAn initial investment of £1.4m has been made to support the establishment of the Hubs, which will extend the range and scope of psychological therapies available across mental health services.\n\nA pilot in west Belfast demonstrated real benefits to this approach, and is now being rolled out across the city. All other Trusts are in the process of applying the lessons learned from this pilot in order to bring these benefits to all parts of Northern Ireland.\n\nIt is intended to strengthen the links between these developing Primary Care Talking Therapy Hubs and existing Family Support Hubs, which will create real opportunities to strengthen both family and community-based approaches to good mental health and wellbeing.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board is at the start of a five year plan to establish Primary Care Talking Therapies Hubs across each Trust area. The Hubs will focus on providing a range of psychological therapies (such as counselling, cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy) and lifestyle support for people who are experiencing common mental health problems. The Hubs are being developed around General Practice and when fully developed will improve access to earlier support and care.
An initial investment of £1.4m has been made to support the establishment of the Hubs, which will extend the range and scope of psychological therapies available across mental health services.
A pilot in west Belfast demonstrated real benefits to this approach, and is now being rolled out across the city. All other Trusts are in the process of applying the lessons learned from this pilot in order to bring these benefits to all parts of Northern Ireland.
It is intended to strengthen the links between these developing Primary Care Talking Therapy Hubs and existing Family Support Hubs, which will create real opportunities to strengthen both family and community-based approaches to good mental health and wellbeing.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038889%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214356","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214356"}},{"id":"214355","reference":"AQW 38888/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-17","answerBy":"2014-12-02","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the level of prescription drug use; and to outline the steps his Department is taking to address prescription drug addiction.","answerText":"The number of prescription items recorded per head of population in Primary Care in Northern Ireland is higher than in England and Scotland but is lower than the figures for Wales.\n\nThe Health and Social Care Board has put a range of measures in place to tackle prescription drug addiction. For example, the Board has established a Prescription Drug Misuse Group which was set up to share information and best practice in relation to the management of patients prescribed drugs which have the potential for abuse. Medicines Management Advisers address the issue of medicines with the potential for addiction or abuse in their regular visits to GP practices. The Board has also developed Prescribing Audits, Reviews and Guidelines to support GP practices in reducing the inappropriate prescribing of analgesics.\n\nEach of the five Health and Social care Trusts has Community Addiction teams and substitute Prescribing Teams in place to work with patients who require support to withdraw safely from prescribed medication.","answerHtml":"The number of prescription items recorded per head of population in Primary Care in Northern Ireland is higher than in England and Scotland but is lower than the figures for Wales.
The Health and Social Care Board has put a range of measures in place to tackle prescription drug addiction. For example, the Board has established a Prescription Drug Misuse Group which was set up to share information and best practice in relation to the management of patients prescribed drugs which have the potential for abuse. Medicines Management Advisers address the issue of medicines with the potential for addiction or abuse in their regular visits to GP practices. The Board has also developed Prescribing Audits, Reviews and Guidelines to support GP practices in reducing the inappropriate prescribing of analgesics.
Each of the five Health and Social care Trusts has Community Addiction teams and substitute Prescribing Teams in place to work with patients who require support to withdraw safely from prescribed medication.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038888%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214355","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214355"}},{"id":"214260","reference":"AQW 38829/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-14","answerBy":"2014-12-01","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safe how his Department communicate with The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority to ensure correct staffing ratios in private care homes.","answerText":"My Department has published minimum care standards for residential and nursing homes, which include a requirement to have sufficient staff on duty at all times to meet the assessed needs of residents.\n\nThe Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority inspect care homes in both the statutory and private sectors against the minimum care standards.\n\nWhere RQIA identify any facility which is not compliant with any aspect of the minimum standards, they can issue a Failure to Comply Notice in respect of individual standards. My Department is provided with a copy of these notices.","answerHtml":"My Department has published minimum care standards for residential and nursing homes, which include a requirement to have sufficient staff on duty at all times to meet the assessed needs of residents.
The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority inspect care homes in both the statutory and private sectors against the minimum care standards.
Where RQIA identify any facility which is not compliant with any aspect of the minimum standards, they can issue a Failure to Comply Notice in respect of individual standards. My Department is provided with a copy of these notices.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038829%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214260","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214260"}},{"id":"214259","reference":"AQW 38828/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-14","answerBy":"2014-12-01","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to outline the assessment process for patients with Dementia who require to be located in a care home with Elderely Mentally Interferred provision, to ensure that they are placed in the most appropriate environment to cater for their individual needs.","answerText":"All people with dementia are given a person centred assessment. Decisions relating to the most appropriate placement for an individual are based on professionally assessed need. A medical recommendation is sought from a Consultant Psychogeriatrician to decide whether the older person would need to be placed in an EMI Residential or EMI Nursing Home in order to meet their assessed needs.\n\nMany people with dementia may be suitably placed in general nursing and residential settings and that the guiding principle is one of least restriction. Over time, people’s care needs may alter and a transfer to a different setting may have to be considered. This again will be on the basis of professionally assessed need and any move will be fully discussed at a formal Care Management review with the individual and family.","answerHtml":"All people with dementia are given a person centred assessment. Decisions relating to the most appropriate placement for an individual are based on professionally assessed need. A medical recommendation is sought from a Consultant Psychogeriatrician to decide whether the older person would need to be placed in an EMI Residential or EMI Nursing Home in order to meet their assessed needs.
Many people with dementia may be suitably placed in general nursing and residential settings and that the guiding principle is one of least restriction. Over time, people’s care needs may alter and a transfer to a different setting may have to be considered. This again will be on the basis of professionally assessed need and any move will be fully discussed at a formal Care Management review with the individual and family.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038828%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214259","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214259"}},{"id":"214257","reference":"AQW 38826/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-14","answerBy":"2014-12-01","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, given the recent assessment by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful outlining litter levels on beaches, what steps his Department is taking to (i) address current levels of litter; and (ii) ensure this does not negatively impact on coastal tourism.","answerText":"Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful has undertaken the Marine Survey on behalf of my Department since September 2012. Fourteen reference beaches are each surveyed 4 times a year. These beaches were specifically chosen because they are not regularly cleaned by local authorities. Following the survey, the litter is removed for disposal. Last year, this resulted in 20,000 fewer items of litter on these beaches.\n\nReporting on the extent and composition of marine litter means that the effectiveness of management and mitigation measures can be assessed, sources and activities which lead to litter pollution can be identified, and resources focused on how to best tackle the problem.\n\nStatutory responsibility for addressing levels of litter on local amenity beaches lies primarily with beach operators, who for the most part are the relevant local authorities in which the beach is located.\n\nMy Department has issued a revised statutory Code of Practice on Litter which makes it clear that amenity beaches should, as a minimum standard, generally be kept clear of all types of litter during the traditional bathing season from 1 May to 30 September inclusive.\n\nI chair the Good Beach Summit which brings together beach operators and other organisations with an interest in healthy beaches both from an amenity and water quality perspective. This group has developed and implemented an action plan which addresses the issue of beach cleanliness and water quality.\n\nThe Marine Litter Strategy was published by my Department in July 2013 to address the problem of coastal litter. Key strands within the Strategy are awareness-raising, data collection, statutory deterrents, coastal infrastructure and removal of litter. Specific measures taken include the Marine Survey, volunteering programmes, the Carrier Bag levy and Blue Flag Awards which can promote coastal tourism.\n\nOn 9 October 2014, I had the privilege of presenting the Coca-cola sponsored Coast Care Awards at an event managed by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. This event recognised and rewarded the work of dedicated volunteers who regularly clean up our coast and inland waterways. I am also happy to note that in 2014 we gained 2 new Blue Flag beaches.\n\nThe Carrier Bag levy was introduced by my Department in April 2013 and already the environmental benefits are being realised. The 2013 Marine Survey recorded 24% fewer plastic bags on beaches in the period following the introduction of the levy.","answerHtml":"Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful has undertaken the Marine Survey on behalf of my Department since September 2012. Fourteen reference beaches are each surveyed 4 times a year. These beaches were specifically chosen because they are not regularly cleaned by local authorities. Following the survey, the litter is removed for disposal. Last year, this resulted in 20,000 fewer items of litter on these beaches.
Reporting on the extent and composition of marine litter means that the effectiveness of management and mitigation measures can be assessed, sources and activities which lead to litter pollution can be identified, and resources focused on how to best tackle the problem.
Statutory responsibility for addressing levels of litter on local amenity beaches lies primarily with beach operators, who for the most part are the relevant local authorities in which the beach is located.
My Department has issued a revised statutory Code of Practice on Litter which makes it clear that amenity beaches should, as a minimum standard, generally be kept clear of all types of litter during the traditional bathing season from 1 May to 30 September inclusive.
I chair the Good Beach Summit which brings together beach operators and other organisations with an interest in healthy beaches both from an amenity and water quality perspective. This group has developed and implemented an action plan which addresses the issue of beach cleanliness and water quality.
The Marine Litter Strategy was published by my Department in July 2013 to address the problem of coastal litter. Key strands within the Strategy are awareness-raising, data collection, statutory deterrents, coastal infrastructure and removal of litter. Specific measures taken include the Marine Survey, volunteering programmes, the Carrier Bag levy and Blue Flag Awards which can promote coastal tourism.
On 9 October 2014, I had the privilege of presenting the Coca-cola sponsored Coast Care Awards at an event managed by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful. This event recognised and rewarded the work of dedicated volunteers who regularly clean up our coast and inland waterways. I am also happy to note that in 2014 we gained 2 new Blue Flag beaches.
The Carrier Bag levy was introduced by my Department in April 2013 and already the environmental benefits are being realised. The 2013 Marine Survey recorded 24% fewer plastic bags on beaches in the period following the introduction of the levy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038826%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214257","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214257"}},{"id":"214256","reference":"AQW 38825/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-14","answerBy":"2014-12-01","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how often the Regulation Quality and Improvement Authority (RQIA) are required to complete individual inspections of private care homes; and for his assessment of the rationale behind care homes being given prior notice of impending RQIA inspections.","answerText":"Under the Regulation and Improvement Authority (Fees and Frequency of Inspections) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, RQIA is required to conduct a minimum of two inspections in every 12 month period at nursing, residential care and children’s homes. These inspections may be announced or unannounced.\n\nWhilst the majority of RQIA’s inspections are unannounced, announced inspections provide RQIA an opportunity to receive information from the service in advance of inspection, which is then validated through inspection. These also provide friends, family members, residents/patients and visiting professionals an opportunity to be present in the home during an inspection and to share their experiences of the service with the inspector.\n\nWhere RQIA is following up concerns or disclosures, including those raised by whistleblowers, the associated inspections are unannounced.","answerHtml":"Under the Regulation and Improvement Authority (Fees and Frequency of Inspections) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2005, RQIA is required to conduct a minimum of two inspections in every 12 month period at nursing, residential care and children’s homes. These inspections may be announced or unannounced.
Whilst the majority of RQIA’s inspections are unannounced, announced inspections provide RQIA an opportunity to receive information from the service in advance of inspection, which is then validated through inspection. These also provide friends, family members, residents/patients and visiting professionals an opportunity to be present in the home during an inspection and to share their experiences of the service with the inspector.
Where RQIA is following up concerns or disclosures, including those raised by whistleblowers, the associated inspections are unannounced.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038825%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214256","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214256"}},{"id":"214254","reference":"AQW 38823/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-14","answerBy":"2014-12-01","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety To detail the number of (i) Health Service; and (ii) privately operated care homes in East Londonderry, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The information requested is not held centrally and was therefore requested from the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). Their response can be found in the table below.\n\nTable 1. Number of Registered Cares Homes in the East Londonderry Constituency by Sector1\n\nDate\tSector\tNursing Homes\tResidential Care Homes\tTotal\nNov-12\tPrivate\t12\t6\t18\nStatutory\t0\t2\t2\nNov-13\tPrivate\t12\t7\t19\nStatutory\t0\t2\t2\nNov-14\tPrivate\t11\t7\t18\nStatutory\t0\t1\t1\n\n1 RQIA does not record information by parliamentary/ NI Assembly constituency area. Therefore, the breakdown provided is based on town and postcode information.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not held centrally and was therefore requested from the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA). Their response can be found in the table below.
Table 1. Number of Registered Cares Homes in the East Londonderry Constituency by Sector1
| Date | Sector | Nursing Homes | Residential Care Homes | Total | |
| Nov-12 | Private | 12 | 6 | 18 | |
| Statutory | 0 | 2 | 2 | ||
| Nov-13 | Private | 12 | 7 | 19 | |
| Statutory | 0 | 2 | 2 | ||
| Nov-14 | Private | 11 | 7 | 18 | |
| Statutory | 0 | 1 | 1 |
1 RQIA does not record information by parliamentary/ NI Assembly constituency area. Therefore, the breakdown provided is based on town and postcode information.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038823%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214254","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214254"}},{"id":"214020","reference":"AQW 38733/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-13","answerBy":"2014-11-28","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what funding his Department, and its arm's-length bodies, have provided to support programmes which train people with a disability on issues related to sexual health and general wellbeing.","answerText":"The information requested is not held centrally. Health and Social Care organisations commission a range of services for people with a disability and a range of programmes to promote sexual health and wellbeing, many of these services are accessible to people with a disability. Examples of specifically funded relevant services include: a funding allocation of £57,160 in 2013/14 to support the Family Planning Association’s ‘Just Ask’ programme, which aims to improve the sexual health of people with learning difficulties; funding of approximately £10,000 for the “Health for Youth through Peer Education” group to deliver sexual health programmes to 122 young people with learning disabilities studying at Belfast Metropolitan College; and funding of £5,000 to deliver a training programme on ‘Personal and Sexual Relationships’ to staff working with those with a learning disability.\n\nFurthermore, in line with the objectives of my Department’s Physical and Sensory Disability Strategy and Action Plan 2012-2015, the Public Health Agency is leading on action to ensure the needs of people with disabilities are considered in the design and development of health promotion programmes and campaigns. Trust-funded programmes include, for example, staff working with adults with a learning disability and assisting them in accessing a range of health and wellbeing programmes such as sports and healthy cookery programmes.","answerHtml":"The information requested is not held centrally. Health and Social Care organisations commission a range of services for people with a disability and a range of programmes to promote sexual health and wellbeing, many of these services are accessible to people with a disability. Examples of specifically funded relevant services include: a funding allocation of £57,160 in 2013/14 to support the Family Planning Association’s ‘Just Ask’ programme, which aims to improve the sexual health of people with learning difficulties; funding of approximately £10,000 for the “Health for Youth through Peer Education” group to deliver sexual health programmes to 122 young people with learning disabilities studying at Belfast Metropolitan College; and funding of £5,000 to deliver a training programme on ‘Personal and Sexual Relationships’ to staff working with those with a learning disability.
Furthermore, in line with the objectives of my Department’s Physical and Sensory Disability Strategy and Action Plan 2012-2015, the Public Health Agency is leading on action to ensure the needs of people with disabilities are considered in the design and development of health promotion programmes and campaigns. Trust-funded programmes include, for example, staff working with adults with a learning disability and assisting them in accessing a range of health and wellbeing programmes such as sports and healthy cookery programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038733%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214020","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214020"}},{"id":"214018","reference":"AQW 38732/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-13","answerBy":"2014-11-28","answered":"2014-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what strategies have been put in place by his Department to address the transport needs of people with a disability, to enable full participation within the community.","answerText":"My Department published the Accessible Transport Strategy in 2005. This is a 10 year strategy to address barriers to older people and people with disabilities in using public transport and in travelling.\n\nThe Strategy has been implemented via a series of Action Plans, the fourth and latest of which covers the period 2012-2015.\n\nI am committed to bringing forward a new Accessible Transport Strategy and work has already started to engage with representatives of the age and disability stakeholders in developing this.","answerHtml":"My Department published the Accessible Transport Strategy in 2005. This is a 10 year strategy to address barriers to older people and people with disabilities in using public transport and in travelling.
The Strategy has been implemented via a series of Action Plans, the fourth and latest of which covers the period 2012-2015.
I am committed to bringing forward a new Accessible Transport Strategy and work has already started to engage with representatives of the age and disability stakeholders in developing this.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038732%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214018"}},{"id":"214017","reference":"AQW 38731/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-13","answerBy":"2014-11-28","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the measures his Department is taking to ensure that additional strains are not placed on people with a disability through the Severe Disability Premium which will be introduced by Universal Credit.","answerText":"Currently there are seven different components within the system of benefits and Tax Credits associated with disability. These are paid at different rates, have different qualifying conditions and are for different purposes. A claimant qualifies for the Severe Disability Premium if they are in receipt of a qualifying benefit and satisfy certain conditions.\n\nThe current proposals for the introduction of Universal Credit will see the reform system of multiple disability premiums and additions in Tax Credits and create a much simpler and fairer system for claimants that will ensure support is targeted to those that need it most.\n\nDisabled claimants will be supported through two elements under Universal Credit, the limited capability for work element and for more severely disabled claimants, the limited capability for work and work related activity element. Furthermore my Department aims to raise the level of support for those who have been assessed as having a limited capability for work and work related activity that is currently provided to reflect the extra costs of longer durations on benefit.\n\nUnder Universal Credit a disabled person will also be eligible for a higher earnings disregard when working out their Universal Credit payment to reflect a claimant's personal circumstances.\n\nThose claimants who are subject to migration onto Universal Credit will also be eligible for Transitional Protection. Transitional Protection is a commitment to ensure that no one moving directly onto Universal Credit will experience a reduction in the benefit they are receiving, where their circumstances remain the same at the point of change. This will also apply to those claimants receiving the Severe Disability Premium.\n\nThe Welfare Reform Bill also includes provision to exclude some groups of claimants from the benefit cap - it is intended that this will include households in receipt of the limited capability for work and work related activity element of Universal Credit. This is in recognition of the additional financial costs that can arise from disability.\n\nA package of measures has been designed to ameliorate the worst impacts of Welfare Reform in Northern Ireland. My predecessor listened to the concerns expressed by different groups in Northern Ireland about the impact of welfare reform and the package of measures was developed with the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Treasury. This package is the envy of both Scotland and Wales.","answerHtml":"Currently there are seven different components within the system of benefits and Tax Credits associated with disability. These are paid at different rates, have different qualifying conditions and are for different purposes. A claimant qualifies for the Severe Disability Premium if they are in receipt of a qualifying benefit and satisfy certain conditions.
The current proposals for the introduction of Universal Credit will see the reform system of multiple disability premiums and additions in Tax Credits and create a much simpler and fairer system for claimants that will ensure support is targeted to those that need it most.
Disabled claimants will be supported through two elements under Universal Credit, the limited capability for work element and for more severely disabled claimants, the limited capability for work and work related activity element. Furthermore my Department aims to raise the level of support for those who have been assessed as having a limited capability for work and work related activity that is currently provided to reflect the extra costs of longer durations on benefit.
Under Universal Credit a disabled person will also be eligible for a higher earnings disregard when working out their Universal Credit payment to reflect a claimant's personal circumstances.
Those claimants who are subject to migration onto Universal Credit will also be eligible for Transitional Protection. Transitional Protection is a commitment to ensure that no one moving directly onto Universal Credit will experience a reduction in the benefit they are receiving, where their circumstances remain the same at the point of change. This will also apply to those claimants receiving the Severe Disability Premium.
The Welfare Reform Bill also includes provision to exclude some groups of claimants from the benefit cap - it is intended that this will include households in receipt of the limited capability for work and work related activity element of Universal Credit. This is in recognition of the additional financial costs that can arise from disability.
A package of measures has been designed to ameliorate the worst impacts of Welfare Reform in Northern Ireland. My predecessor listened to the concerns expressed by different groups in Northern Ireland about the impact of welfare reform and the package of measures was developed with the Department for Work and Pensions and HM Treasury. This package is the envy of both Scotland and Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038731%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214017","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214017"}},{"id":"214015","reference":"AQW 38730/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-13","answerBy":"2014-11-28","answered":"2014-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what measures are in place to (i) ensure that local councils abide by legal obligations under waste legislation to prevent environmental damage; and (ii) to encourage waste contracts where waste can be traced from source to final destination.","answerText":"Under the Waste Operational Plan I published in October, the Department is focussing on working in strong partnership with Councils on all waste management issues. In terms of the Council’s legal obligations, it is a requirement of Northern Ireland waste legislation that a waste authorisation must be obtained, from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), to be able to operate a waste facility. Like any other operator, councils have to comply with waste legislation, and with any waste authorisations that they hold.\n\nNIEA inspect all waste management facilities, including Councils, which hold a waste authorisation issued by NIEA. The areas inspected are set out in the conditions of the waste authorisation and agreed working plan for the site. The inspection frequency depends on the type of site, and the potential risks that it poses to the environment and human health.\n\nThe majority of planned site inspections are unannounced, however NIEA also carry out pre-announced site audits. NIEA also inspects all waste management facilities in response to complaints received, or as part of wider investigations.\n\nWhen an operator is in breach of their licence conditions, NIEA will take regulatory and/or enforcement action, in accordance with The NIEA Enforcement and Prosecution Policy. The regulatory and enforcement tools available to NIEA range from warning letters for minor breaches, to harsher penalties for more serious breaches- including corrective notices, suspension or revocation notices, the issue of fixed penalty notices, passing enforcement investigation files to the Public Prosecution Service, and High Court injunctions.\n\nIn addition, The Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 (the Order) imposes a duty of care on anyone who handles controlled waste, including the transfer of waste only to someone who is authorised to take it.\n\nIt is an offence for anyone to fail to comply with the requirements of the duty of care legislation, and the enforcement tools that NIEA may apply are considered in accordance with the NIEA Enforcement and Prosecution Policy and include, for example, issuing warning letters, fixed penalty notices or passing enforcement investigation files to the Public Prosecution Service.\n\nA Joint Working Group between Local and Central Government was established in November 2013 to develop a holistic approach to the control and monitoring of municipal waste including procurement, contract management and Duty of Care.","answerHtml":"Under the Waste Operational Plan I published in October, the Department is focussing on working in strong partnership with Councils on all waste management issues. In terms of the Council’s legal obligations, it is a requirement of Northern Ireland waste legislation that a waste authorisation must be obtained, from the Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA), to be able to operate a waste facility. Like any other operator, councils have to comply with waste legislation, and with any waste authorisations that they hold.
NIEA inspect all waste management facilities, including Councils, which hold a waste authorisation issued by NIEA. The areas inspected are set out in the conditions of the waste authorisation and agreed working plan for the site. The inspection frequency depends on the type of site, and the potential risks that it poses to the environment and human health.
The majority of planned site inspections are unannounced, however NIEA also carry out pre-announced site audits. NIEA also inspects all waste management facilities in response to complaints received, or as part of wider investigations.
When an operator is in breach of their licence conditions, NIEA will take regulatory and/or enforcement action, in accordance with The NIEA Enforcement and Prosecution Policy. The regulatory and enforcement tools available to NIEA range from warning letters for minor breaches, to harsher penalties for more serious breaches- including corrective notices, suspension or revocation notices, the issue of fixed penalty notices, passing enforcement investigation files to the Public Prosecution Service, and High Court injunctions.
In addition, The Waste and Contaminated Land (Northern Ireland) Order 1997 (the Order) imposes a duty of care on anyone who handles controlled waste, including the transfer of waste only to someone who is authorised to take it.
It is an offence for anyone to fail to comply with the requirements of the duty of care legislation, and the enforcement tools that NIEA may apply are considered in accordance with the NIEA Enforcement and Prosecution Policy and include, for example, issuing warning letters, fixed penalty notices or passing enforcement investigation files to the Public Prosecution Service.
A Joint Working Group between Local and Central Government was established in November 2013 to develop a holistic approach to the control and monitoring of municipal waste including procurement, contract management and Duty of Care.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038730%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214015","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214015"}},{"id":"214014","reference":"AQW 38729/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-13","answerBy":"2014-11-28","answered":"2014-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to outline the range of options available to people with a disability who are seeking to live independently within their community.","answerText":"There are a range of options available that my Department funds to enable people with a disability to live independently within their community. They include:\n\nDisabled Facilities Grants\n\nWithin the private sector, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) can offer a Disabled Facilities Grant to home owners, landlords and private sector tenants. The grant process begins with a recommendation from an Occupational Therapist from the Health and Social Services Board recommending works which would benefit the disabled applicant to remain at home; such works may include ramped access to the dwelling, replacing a bath with a suitable shower facility, extending the dwelling to incorporate a downstairs bedroom and bathroom. The maximum grant available is £25,000 although this can be extended to £50,000 with the approval of the NIHE where the works are deemed necessary.\n\nIn the 2013/14 financial year, the NIHE approved 1,177 Disabled Facilities Grants, completed 1,113 and spent £10.84m and continues to be committed to enabling persons with a disability to remain in their home.\n\nSupporting People\n\nThe Supporting People (SP) programme came into effect in Northern Ireland on the 1st April 2003. It provides a single funding framework, for a range of housing support services, aimed at helping vulnerable people to live independently in the community. These include people with disabilities or who are vulnerable due to old age, learning disabilities or mental health needs.\n\nSupporting People funded services enable the client to live independently in their own home by supporting them with a range of eligible housing related tasks. These include advice on security and safety in the home, maintaining the physical environment of the home, building on life skills, personal budgeting, benefits advice and Debt counselling.\n\nSocial Security Agency\n\nThe Social Security Agency provides a range of help through the benefits system to support people with disabilities to help them live independently in the community.\n\nCommunity Care Grants which are available under the Discretionary Social Fund scheme are primarily intended to help vulnerable people live as independent a life as possible in the community. In the 2013/14 year the Agency made 20,121 Community Care Grant awards with a total expenditure of £13.69m. Claimants who are receiving Income Support, Income-Based Jobseekers Allowance, Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance, State Pension Credit because they are moving out of care can be considered for a Community Care Grant. There is no requirement to repay a Community Care Grant.\n\nEmployment and Support Allowance provides financial help to people who are unable to work because of illness or disability. It also provides personalised support to those who are able to work by giving them access to a specially trained Employment Service Adviser and a wide range of further services including employment, training and condition management support. This is to help people manage and cope with their illness or disability at work. The amount of Employment and Support Allowance a person is entitled to depends on their individual circumstances.\n\nDisability Living Allowance is a tax-free social security benefit for people with an illness or disability who need help with getting around, or help with personal care, or help with both of these. Disability Living Allowance consists of two separate components. The mobility component is payable at higher / lower rate. The care component can be payable at three different rates, high, middle and low. People can be receiving either the mobility component or care component or a combination of both. At May 2014 there were 198,310 recipients of Disability Living Allowance.","answerHtml":"There are a range of options available that my Department funds to enable people with a disability to live independently within their community. They include:
Disabled Facilities Grants
Within the private sector, the Northern Ireland Housing Executive (NIHE) can offer a Disabled Facilities Grant to home owners, landlords and private sector tenants. The grant process begins with a recommendation from an Occupational Therapist from the Health and Social Services Board recommending works which would benefit the disabled applicant to remain at home; such works may include ramped access to the dwelling, replacing a bath with a suitable shower facility, extending the dwelling to incorporate a downstairs bedroom and bathroom. The maximum grant available is £25,000 although this can be extended to £50,000 with the approval of the NIHE where the works are deemed necessary.
In the 2013/14 financial year, the NIHE approved 1,177 Disabled Facilities Grants, completed 1,113 and spent £10.84m and continues to be committed to enabling persons with a disability to remain in their home.
Supporting People
The Supporting People (SP) programme came into effect in Northern Ireland on the 1st April 2003. It provides a single funding framework, for a range of housing support services, aimed at helping vulnerable people to live independently in the community. These include people with disabilities or who are vulnerable due to old age, learning disabilities or mental health needs.
Supporting People funded services enable the client to live independently in their own home by supporting them with a range of eligible housing related tasks. These include advice on security and safety in the home, maintaining the physical environment of the home, building on life skills, personal budgeting, benefits advice and Debt counselling.
Social Security Agency
The Social Security Agency provides a range of help through the benefits system to support people with disabilities to help them live independently in the community.
Community Care Grants which are available under the Discretionary Social Fund scheme are primarily intended to help vulnerable people live as independent a life as possible in the community. In the 2013/14 year the Agency made 20,121 Community Care Grant awards with a total expenditure of £13.69m. Claimants who are receiving Income Support, Income-Based Jobseekers Allowance, Income-Related Employment and Support Allowance, State Pension Credit because they are moving out of care can be considered for a Community Care Grant. There is no requirement to repay a Community Care Grant.
Employment and Support Allowance provides financial help to people who are unable to work because of illness or disability. It also provides personalised support to those who are able to work by giving them access to a specially trained Employment Service Adviser and a wide range of further services including employment, training and condition management support. This is to help people manage and cope with their illness or disability at work. The amount of Employment and Support Allowance a person is entitled to depends on their individual circumstances.
Disability Living Allowance is a tax-free social security benefit for people with an illness or disability who need help with getting around, or help with personal care, or help with both of these. Disability Living Allowance consists of two separate components. The mobility component is payable at higher / lower rate. The care component can be payable at three different rates, high, middle and low. People can be receiving either the mobility component or care component or a combination of both. At May 2014 there were 198,310 recipients of Disability Living Allowance.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038729%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=214014","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=214014"}},{"id":"213909","reference":"AQW 38676/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-12","answerBy":"2014-11-27","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment how his Department is addressing the risks associated with the transfer of power to local government; and what preparation has been taken to ensure the competent transfer of these powers in April 2015.","answerText":"My Department has established a regional delivery structure for the local government reform programme which was endorsed by the Executive. The structure reflects the partnership between local and central government and is designed to bring consistency, clarity of purpose, and direction to this complex programme. The Regional Transition Operational Board, chaired by my Permanent Secretary, includes officers and officials from central and local government and coordinates the operational delivery of the reform programme. Progress is monitored by the Regional Transitional Operation Board which tracks achievement against a comprehensive Gantt chart which clearly identifies all dependencies, milestones, key tasks and a critical path. The Board monitors work streams, their delivery and the management of associated risk and provides assurance on the progress of the programme.\n\nAll of the transferring departments have been working closely with councils to ensure the smooth transition of functions. Ensuring continuity of services for all transferring functions has been paramount in these considerations. Extensive work has been carried out to provide detailed assessment of the functions and powers to transfer to local government and to verify the associated budgets, staff, assets and liabilities.\n\nMy Department has also provided councils with practical and financial support to ensure that new councils will have the capacity to effectively provide transferred services. Through the Transfer of Functions Working Group, councils have been given specialist practitioner support through a best practice approach to organisational design, to help inform future service delivery models. My officials are continuing to work closely with councils to review and revise their training plans and ensure they are cost effective and relevant to the emerging needs of elected members and council officers. The next few months are critical in terms of capacity building and in particular the need for know-how which will enable councils to be effective planning authorities. I would therefore encourage all councils to fully utilise the funding set aside by the Executive for capacity building in a meaningful way.\n\nIn addition to these practical considerations, councils will be provided with the legislative powers to enable them to exercise their new and wider authority. My Department has overseen the enactment of the Local Government Finance (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Northern Ireland) Act 2014 and a large amount of subordinate legislation to create councils that are more effective, more efficient and more responsive to the needs of their communities.\n\nThe provision of regeneration powers from DSD, albeit deferred for a year, and the off-street car parking functions from DRD will also require primary legislation, and it is crucial that the necessary Bills pass through the Assembly process without delay. I will continue to support Ministerial colleagues in their efforts to ensure that all the necessary legislative provisions are introduced in the Assembly to deliver local government reform.","answerHtml":"My Department has established a regional delivery structure for the local government reform programme which was endorsed by the Executive. The structure reflects the partnership between local and central government and is designed to bring consistency, clarity of purpose, and direction to this complex programme. The Regional Transition Operational Board, chaired by my Permanent Secretary, includes officers and officials from central and local government and coordinates the operational delivery of the reform programme. Progress is monitored by the Regional Transitional Operation Board which tracks achievement against a comprehensive Gantt chart which clearly identifies all dependencies, milestones, key tasks and a critical path. The Board monitors work streams, their delivery and the management of associated risk and provides assurance on the progress of the programme.
All of the transferring departments have been working closely with councils to ensure the smooth transition of functions. Ensuring continuity of services for all transferring functions has been paramount in these considerations. Extensive work has been carried out to provide detailed assessment of the functions and powers to transfer to local government and to verify the associated budgets, staff, assets and liabilities.
My Department has also provided councils with practical and financial support to ensure that new councils will have the capacity to effectively provide transferred services. Through the Transfer of Functions Working Group, councils have been given specialist practitioner support through a best practice approach to organisational design, to help inform future service delivery models. My officials are continuing to work closely with councils to review and revise their training plans and ensure they are cost effective and relevant to the emerging needs of elected members and council officers. The next few months are critical in terms of capacity building and in particular the need for know-how which will enable councils to be effective planning authorities. I would therefore encourage all councils to fully utilise the funding set aside by the Executive for capacity building in a meaningful way.
In addition to these practical considerations, councils will be provided with the legislative powers to enable them to exercise their new and wider authority. My Department has overseen the enactment of the Local Government Finance (Northern Ireland) Act 2011 and the Local Government (Northern Ireland) Act 2014 and a large amount of subordinate legislation to create councils that are more effective, more efficient and more responsive to the needs of their communities.
The provision of regeneration powers from DSD, albeit deferred for a year, and the off-street car parking functions from DRD will also require primary legislation, and it is crucial that the necessary Bills pass through the Assembly process without delay. I will continue to support Ministerial colleagues in their efforts to ensure that all the necessary legislative provisions are introduced in the Assembly to deliver local government reform.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038676%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213909","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213909"}},{"id":"213908","reference":"AQW 38675/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-12","answerBy":"2014-11-27","answered":"2014-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 37834/11-15, to detail the range of measures which are in place to minimise medicines and supplies wastage in each Health and Social Care Trust.","answerText":"Each of the HSC Trusts has a number of measures in place to minimise medicines wastage. These include, for example, a One Stop Dispensing system whereby a patient’s own drugs are assessed and if suitable for use will be used during the hospital stay. On discharge the medicines will, if appropriate, be returned to the patient. Trust dispensed medicines not required by the patient at discharge are returned to the hospital pharmacy and are assessed for reuse. If is safe to do so they can be put back into stock and be used again. Hospital pharmacies also have measures in place to manage their stock of medicines to ensure that the volume of medicines passing their expiry date is kept to a minimum.\n\nMy Department is currently developing a Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework. One of the key challenges which the framework seeks to address is medicines wastage and the framework will set objectives for monitoring and reducing waste across various care environments. It is hoped to issue the framework for consultation early in the New Year.","answerHtml":"Each of the HSC Trusts has a number of measures in place to minimise medicines wastage. These include, for example, a One Stop Dispensing system whereby a patient’s own drugs are assessed and if suitable for use will be used during the hospital stay. On discharge the medicines will, if appropriate, be returned to the patient. Trust dispensed medicines not required by the patient at discharge are returned to the hospital pharmacy and are assessed for reuse. If is safe to do so they can be put back into stock and be used again. Hospital pharmacies also have measures in place to manage their stock of medicines to ensure that the volume of medicines passing their expiry date is kept to a minimum.
My Department is currently developing a Medicines Optimisation Quality Framework. One of the key challenges which the framework seeks to address is medicines wastage and the framework will set objectives for monitoring and reducing waste across various care environments. It is hoped to issue the framework for consultation early in the New Year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038675%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213908","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213908"}},{"id":"213907","reference":"AQW 38674/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-12","answerBy":"2014-11-27","answered":"2014-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the public consultation on a subsidy scheme for rate payers under the new local government structure.","answerText":"On 19 November 2014 I announced the final detail of the scheme to manage the issue of rates convergence arising out of the new council structures.\n\nThe scheme will see the effects of rates convergence phased in over the full council term with an 80% subsidy applied next year (2015/16). This will remove 80% of the amount which has been identified as the “convergence” effect. That support will then be gradually phased out over the 4 year term and will be applied at increments of 60%, 40%, and 20% over the remaining years of the scheme.\n\nThese discounts will be automatically applied to the district rate shown on the rate bill from next year for the life of the scheme and therefore there is no need for anyone to claim it.","answerHtml":"On 19 November 2014 I announced the final detail of the scheme to manage the issue of rates convergence arising out of the new council structures.
The scheme will see the effects of rates convergence phased in over the full council term with an 80% subsidy applied next year (2015/16). This will remove 80% of the amount which has been identified as the “convergence” effect. That support will then be gradually phased out over the 4 year term and will be applied at increments of 60%, 40%, and 20% over the remaining years of the scheme.
These discounts will be automatically applied to the district rate shown on the rate bill from next year for the life of the scheme and therefore there is no need for anyone to claim it.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038674%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213907","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213907"}},{"id":"213906","reference":"AQW 38673/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-12","answerBy":"2014-11-27","answered":"2014-11-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how the public will be made aware of the relevant changes for rate payers under the new local government structure.","answerText":"The reform of local government in Northern Ireland presents a once in a lifetime opportunity for the new councils to better serve the communities they represent and it will be up to the new local councils to make their ratepayers aware of the benefits that will result. However, decreasing the number of councils from 26 to 11 will present immediate challenges, including the issue of the convergence of district rates. The Member may already be aware that I announced the final details of a scheme to manage this issue on 20th November.\n\nNow that the final make-up of the Scheme has been announced, my Department will be making ratepayers aware of the support being provided to help ease the transition. The Scheme provides an automatic subsidy to domestic and non domestic ratepayers located in areas where district rates are relatively low. There is no need for anyone to apply for this, help and details will be provided in the rating leaflet that issues with the ‘turn of year’ rate bills. In advance of this, DFP will be producing an online factsheet and publicising details of the Scheme on its website.","answerHtml":"The reform of local government in Northern Ireland presents a once in a lifetime opportunity for the new councils to better serve the communities they represent and it will be up to the new local councils to make their ratepayers aware of the benefits that will result. However, decreasing the number of councils from 26 to 11 will present immediate challenges, including the issue of the convergence of district rates. The Member may already be aware that I announced the final details of a scheme to manage this issue on 20th November.
Now that the final make-up of the Scheme has been announced, my Department will be making ratepayers aware of the support being provided to help ease the transition. The Scheme provides an automatic subsidy to domestic and non domestic ratepayers located in areas where district rates are relatively low. There is no need for anyone to apply for this, help and details will be provided in the rating leaflet that issues with the ‘turn of year’ rate bills. In advance of this, DFP will be producing an online factsheet and publicising details of the Scheme on its website.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038673%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213906","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213906"}},{"id":"213896","reference":"AQW 38671/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-12","answerBy":"2014-11-27","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the number of training suppliers providing services for young people in East Londonderry participating in the Training for Success Programme.","answerText":"There has been no change to the number of training suppliers providing services for young people in East Londonderry participating in the Training for Success Programme since my response to the original question (AQW 36046-11-15) in September 2014.\n\nThe Training for Success Programme continues to be delivered across Northern Ireland by 32 contracted training suppliers of which 11 hold contracts to provide training in East Londonderry. The 11 contracted suppliers are listed at\n\nAnnex A.\n\nContracts for the current Training for Success Programme were awarded in June 2013 and will run until March 2016.\n\nThe full list of Training for Success suppliers and the areas in which they are contracted to deliver can be found on the nidirect website.\n\nhttp://www.nidirect.gov.uk/trainingforsuccess","answerHtml":"There has been no change to the number of training suppliers providing services for young people in East Londonderry participating in the Training for Success Programme since my response to the original question (AQW 36046-11-15) in September 2014.
The Training for Success Programme continues to be delivered across Northern Ireland by 32 contracted training suppliers of which 11 hold contracts to provide training in East Londonderry. The 11 contracted suppliers are listed at
Annex A.
Contracts for the current Training for Success Programme were awarded in June 2013 and will run until March 2016.
The full list of Training for Success suppliers and the areas in which they are contracted to deliver can be found on the nidirect website.
http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/trainingforsuccess
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038671%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213896","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213896"}},{"id":"213609","reference":"AQW 38578/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-11","answerBy":"2014-11-26","answered":"2014-11-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what is the deadline for applications to the European Social Fund.","answerText":"Launch of Call for Applications to the European Social Fund\n\nPlanning work is underway within my Department to launch the call for applications to the new Programme on the Department’s website on 28th November 2014. The closing date for receipt of applications is anticipated to be 9th January 2015.\n\nA series of road shows to publicise the opening of the call for applications and detailing the application and assessment process for the new ESF Programme took place during October and November throughout Northern Ireland in each of the 11 new Council areas.","answerHtml":"Launch of Call for Applications to the European Social Fund
Planning work is underway within my Department to launch the call for applications to the new Programme on the Department’s website on 28th November 2014. The closing date for receipt of applications is anticipated to be 9th January 2015.
A series of road shows to publicise the opening of the call for applications and detailing the application and assessment process for the new ESF Programme took place during October and November throughout Northern Ireland in each of the 11 new Council areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038578%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213609","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213609"}},{"id":"213607","reference":"AQW 38577/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-11","answerBy":"2014-11-26","answered":"2014-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment whether his Department plans to reduce the cost of driving licences for motorists, following the announcement by the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency that fees will be reduced from October 2014.","answerText":"The administration of driver licensing in Northern Ireland is expected, as far as possible, to be a self-financing service, with costs recovered through fee income. These costs include salaries, maintenance, support and development of the IT system, production of the licence, postage and the payment of fees for certain medical assessments. The licence fees are varied according to the complexity of individual transactions.\n\nFollowing a public consultation, driving licence fees were increased on 18 October 2012 which resulted in a gap across a range of transactions between the fees charged in NI compared to those charged in GB. This gap exists largely due the lack of economies of scale for recovering the costs of processing driver licences locally. I am also aware that DVLA recently introduced a reduction in their fees that has further widened the gap between NI and GB. I understand that the DVLA have indicated that they have been able to reduce their fees through developments in technology, with the ability to offer online transactions.\n\nHowever, I can advise that the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is currently developing a new driver licensing IT system to be delivered by April 2016. This system will improve the customer experience, deliver service efficiencies and will enable online processing. This will provide an opportunity to review the fees currently charged for the processing of driver licences.","answerHtml":"The administration of driver licensing in Northern Ireland is expected, as far as possible, to be a self-financing service, with costs recovered through fee income. These costs include salaries, maintenance, support and development of the IT system, production of the licence, postage and the payment of fees for certain medical assessments. The licence fees are varied according to the complexity of individual transactions.
Following a public consultation, driving licence fees were increased on 18 October 2012 which resulted in a gap across a range of transactions between the fees charged in NI compared to those charged in GB. This gap exists largely due the lack of economies of scale for recovering the costs of processing driver licences locally. I am also aware that DVLA recently introduced a reduction in their fees that has further widened the gap between NI and GB. I understand that the DVLA have indicated that they have been able to reduce their fees through developments in technology, with the ability to offer online transactions.
However, I can advise that the Driver & Vehicle Agency (DVA) is currently developing a new driver licensing IT system to be delivered by April 2016. This system will improve the customer experience, deliver service efficiencies and will enable online processing. This will provide an opportunity to review the fees currently charged for the processing of driver licences.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038577%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213607","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213607"}},{"id":"213606","reference":"AQW 38576/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-11","answerBy":"2014-11-26","answered":"2014-12-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the process by which outpatient appointments are allocated; and (ii) whether hospital staff are advised to take into account where patients live in relation to the hospital, their age, and their ability to arrange travel to their appointments.","answerText":"(i) Outpatient appointments are allocated on the basis of the patient’s clinical priority with urgent patients seen and treated first. Patients with the same clinical priority are treated in chronological order. The Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts operate partial booking systems which allow patients to arrange their outpatient appointments for a date and time that suit them. Six weeks prior to appointment, patients are issued with a letter inviting them to contact the relevant HSC Trust to confirm or make an appointment. If a date does not suit, they are offered an alternative date and time.\n\n(ii) HSC Trusts will take into account any specific needs for patients as far as possible and where these are known to the Trust, for example arranging a time, day or location to suit travelling distance and transport arrangements. However some specialities only hold clinics on certain sites so it is not always possible to give patients appointments at a location close to their home. In some cases, patients may be offered an appointment at a more distant site because it has shorter waiting times.","answerHtml":"(i) Outpatient appointments are allocated on the basis of the patient’s clinical priority with urgent patients seen and treated first. Patients with the same clinical priority are treated in chronological order. The Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts operate partial booking systems which allow patients to arrange their outpatient appointments for a date and time that suit them. Six weeks prior to appointment, patients are issued with a letter inviting them to contact the relevant HSC Trust to confirm or make an appointment. If a date does not suit, they are offered an alternative date and time.
(ii) HSC Trusts will take into account any specific needs for patients as far as possible and where these are known to the Trust, for example arranging a time, day or location to suit travelling distance and transport arrangements. However some specialities only hold clinics on certain sites so it is not always possible to give patients appointments at a location close to their home. In some cases, patients may be offered an appointment at a more distant site because it has shorter waiting times.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038576%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213606","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213606"}},{"id":"213605","reference":"AQW 38575/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-11","answerBy":"2014-11-26","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services.","answerText":"Public consultation on policy proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The responses received during the consultation period are currently being analysed.\n\nWe will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"Public consultation on policy proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The responses received during the consultation period are currently being analysed.
We will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038575%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213605","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213605"}},{"id":"213604","reference":"AQW 38574/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-11","answerBy":"2014-11-26","answered":"2014-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for her assessment of the effectiveness of local Social Enterprise Hubs in actively encouraging business start ups within local communities.","answerText":"All eleven Social Enterprise Hub locations are now operational and providing physical workspace, training, events, action planning and mentoring to potential new social enterprises across Northern Ireland. Although it is still early days there are reports of significant activity through the Hubs.\n\nAt the end of September 2014, the nine delivery contracts reported the following: 102 community engagement sessions had taken place, 59 participants/groups had progressed to Action Planning around a social enterprise business start, 134 mentoring sessions had been completed with groups, and 68 promotional and information events had taken place to encourage social enterprise start up.\n\nIn terms of the incubation space utilisation, 15 potential social enterprises were working within the hub premises, and additional 13 groups had been approved to set up a test trading model in the premises - all of these are potential new start social enterprises.\n\nI think this represents a positive start to this innovative project.","answerHtml":"All eleven Social Enterprise Hub locations are now operational and providing physical workspace, training, events, action planning and mentoring to potential new social enterprises across Northern Ireland. Although it is still early days there are reports of significant activity through the Hubs.
At the end of September 2014, the nine delivery contracts reported the following: 102 community engagement sessions had taken place, 59 participants/groups had progressed to Action Planning around a social enterprise business start, 134 mentoring sessions had been completed with groups, and 68 promotional and information events had taken place to encourage social enterprise start up.
In terms of the incubation space utilisation, 15 potential social enterprises were working within the hub premises, and additional 13 groups had been approved to set up a test trading model in the premises - all of these are potential new start social enterprises.
I think this represents a positive start to this innovative project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038574%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213604","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213604"}},{"id":"213485","reference":"AQW 38523/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-10","answerBy":"2014-11-25","answered":"2014-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on progress being made on proposals from May 2014 to resolve outstanding issues related to the Civil Service Equal Pay Settlement.","answerText":"I refer the Member to my response given in AQW 37447/11-15.","answerHtml":"I refer the Member to my response given in AQW 37447/11-15.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038523%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213485","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213485"}},{"id":"213484","reference":"AQW 38522/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-10","answerBy":"2014-11-25","answered":"2015-02-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what proportion of the Shackleton site at Ballykelly will be designated to the community voluntary sector.","answerText":"Any plans for the future development of the Shackleton site will be expected to demonstrate how community needs have been identified and will be met.","answerHtml":"Any plans for the future development of the Shackleton site will be expected to demonstrate how community needs have been identified and will be met.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038522%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213484","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213484"}},{"id":"213483","reference":"AQW 38521/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-10","answerBy":"2014-11-25","answered":"2014-12-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline the long term vision for the Shackleton site at Ballykelly; and what interest has been received from the community voluntary sector.","answerText":"Future options are being considered with a view to maximising the benefits that could be provided by development of the site. We are aware of interest in specific parts of the site from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and from NI Water. Accordingly, we have decided to look at dividing the site into lots.\n\nA soft market testing exercise was completed earlier this year and we received several expressions of interest from local community groups. Officials have had a number of meetings with the local community association in Ballykelly.","answerHtml":"Future options are being considered with a view to maximising the benefits that could be provided by development of the site. We are aware of interest in specific parts of the site from the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and from NI Water. Accordingly, we have decided to look at dividing the site into lots.
A soft market testing exercise was completed earlier this year and we received several expressions of interest from local community groups. Officials have had a number of meetings with the local community association in Ballykelly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038521%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213483"}},{"id":"213482","reference":"AQW 38520/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-10","answerBy":"2014-11-25","answered":"2014-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, given the present difficulties being experienced by dairy farmers over market milk price volatility, how her Department is encouraging stakeholders to consider long term approaches such as hedging or insurance cover.","answerText":"Following the 2003 EU CAP reform, milk price volatility was identified as an issue that our dairy industry would have to address. In the interim my Department’s dairy advisers have encouraged farmers to consider various matters that would help to mitigate risk. These include: an efficient production system linked to farm resources; business and financial management through benchmarking; prudent expenditure; a good cash flow plan covering all of the year; and hedging contracts for feed, fertiliser and milk supply.\n\nI appreciate that hedging contracts and insurance cover are used by the dairy industry in other countries but so far there does not seem to have been an appetite by our industry to go down this road. However, I can advise that this matter is still on the table for consideration. I understand that hedging contracts were among the issues identified by the Agri-Food Strategy Board Dairy Sub-Group for consideration in the medium term. The members of this Group agreed that the industry needs to build resilience to cope with the peaks and troughs of the dairy market and flagged in Going for Growth the need for better integration along the supply chain and effective sharing and mitigation of risk. Hedging contracts would not, however, lead to an overall increase in the price received by farmers.\n\nAs this is a commercial matter you will appreciate that my Department cannot engage on discussions between individual milk purchasers and producers on taking this matter forward. This is something that only the various industry interests can do. Nevertheless, I do believe that it is something that individual milk producers may wish to explore further with their milk purchaser.","answerHtml":"Following the 2003 EU CAP reform, milk price volatility was identified as an issue that our dairy industry would have to address. In the interim my Department’s dairy advisers have encouraged farmers to consider various matters that would help to mitigate risk. These include: an efficient production system linked to farm resources; business and financial management through benchmarking; prudent expenditure; a good cash flow plan covering all of the year; and hedging contracts for feed, fertiliser and milk supply.
I appreciate that hedging contracts and insurance cover are used by the dairy industry in other countries but so far there does not seem to have been an appetite by our industry to go down this road. However, I can advise that this matter is still on the table for consideration. I understand that hedging contracts were among the issues identified by the Agri-Food Strategy Board Dairy Sub-Group for consideration in the medium term. The members of this Group agreed that the industry needs to build resilience to cope with the peaks and troughs of the dairy market and flagged in Going for Growth the need for better integration along the supply chain and effective sharing and mitigation of risk. Hedging contracts would not, however, lead to an overall increase in the price received by farmers.
As this is a commercial matter you will appreciate that my Department cannot engage on discussions between individual milk purchasers and producers on taking this matter forward. This is something that only the various industry interests can do. Nevertheless, I do believe that it is something that individual milk producers may wish to explore further with their milk purchaser.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038520%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213482","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213482"}},{"id":"213481","reference":"AQW 38519/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-10","answerBy":"2014-11-25","answered":"2014-11-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what measures her Department is taking to tackle the current market difficulties being experienced on local farms, to ensure that cashflow does not become an issue for dairy farmers during the high cost winter months.","answerText":"Since the 2003 EU CAP Reform, it has been clear that the dairy industry would face greater volatility in milk prices as it traded in global markets and there is no way to avoid this happening. Farmers therefore need to embrace volatility as a feature of the dairy industry and plan accordingly.\n\nThere will be times when the market delivers record prices followed by times when prices are low. In this scenario the challenge for farmers is to manage their business and cash flow over a longer period than the monthly milk cheque.\n\nTo assist farmers, my Department’s dairy advisers disseminate relevant information on managing cash flow and other issues to dairy farmers. Briefing on steps to assist with cash flow management has also been provided to the Ulster Farmers’ Union and they have used this in recent weeks. At farm level, producers should know their production costs and plan their winter feeding programme so as to maximise feed efficiency. There is also a need to focus on other costs, including whether or not it makes business sense to proceed with a planned approach, to assess borrowing requirements and prepare a realistic cash flow plan for the winter period.\n\nMy Department is fully supportive of the dairy industry and will continue to do what it can to assist producers at a difficult time. If necessary we are prepared to act as an advocate with the grain trade, banks and other creditors. But with good forward planning by producers I would hope that any issues can be managed.","answerHtml":"Since the 2003 EU CAP Reform, it has been clear that the dairy industry would face greater volatility in milk prices as it traded in global markets and there is no way to avoid this happening. Farmers therefore need to embrace volatility as a feature of the dairy industry and plan accordingly.
There will be times when the market delivers record prices followed by times when prices are low. In this scenario the challenge for farmers is to manage their business and cash flow over a longer period than the monthly milk cheque.
To assist farmers, my Department’s dairy advisers disseminate relevant information on managing cash flow and other issues to dairy farmers. Briefing on steps to assist with cash flow management has also been provided to the Ulster Farmers’ Union and they have used this in recent weeks. At farm level, producers should know their production costs and plan their winter feeding programme so as to maximise feed efficiency. There is also a need to focus on other costs, including whether or not it makes business sense to proceed with a planned approach, to assess borrowing requirements and prepare a realistic cash flow plan for the winter period.
My Department is fully supportive of the dairy industry and will continue to do what it can to assist producers at a difficult time. If necessary we are prepared to act as an advocate with the grain trade, banks and other creditors. But with good forward planning by producers I would hope that any issues can be managed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038519%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213481","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213481"}},{"id":"213310","reference":"AQW 38432/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-07","answerBy":"2014-11-24","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how long his Department will provide funding for the reopening of four beds at Robinson Hospital, Ballymoney.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board commissions an intermediate care service from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust which is largely provided in local community hospitals and also in some residential and nursing homes. One facility offering intermediate care is the Robinson hospital in Ballymoney. There are currently 21 beds on the Robinson site.\n\nPrior to November 2013, there had been 25 beds on the Robinson site. However, in light of improvements to length of stay, the Trust was able to reduce the bed complement to 21 at that time.\n\nThere are no plans at present to re-open four beds on the Robinson site.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board commissions an intermediate care service from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust which is largely provided in local community hospitals and also in some residential and nursing homes. One facility offering intermediate care is the Robinson hospital in Ballymoney. There are currently 21 beds on the Robinson site.
Prior to November 2013, there had been 25 beds on the Robinson site. However, in light of improvements to length of stay, the Trust was able to reduce the bed complement to 21 at that time.
There are no plans at present to re-open four beds on the Robinson site.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038432%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213310","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213310"}},{"id":"213309","reference":"AQW 38431/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-07","answerBy":"2014-11-24","answered":"2014-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether his Department has funded the opening of beds in community hospitals in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust for the services of Multiple Sclerosis patients, since 1 November 2014.","answerText":"It is the Northern Health and Social Care Trust which is responsible for services in its area and their funding.\n\nThose who require MS respite continue to have access to a range of respite options including a hospital bed if indicated.","answerHtml":"It is the Northern Health and Social Care Trust which is responsible for services in its area and their funding.
Those who require MS respite continue to have access to a range of respite options including a hospital bed if indicated.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038431%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213309","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213309"}},{"id":"213308","reference":"AQW 38430/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-07","answerBy":"2014-11-24","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what consultation his Department had with patients of the Multiple Sclerosis Respite Centre at Dalriada Hospital, and their families, prior to and following its temporary closure.","answerText":"Following my budget statement on Thursday 30 October 2014, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust contacted MS service users and families from the Northern Trust area to advise them: of the temporary closure of 12 Multiple Sclerosis respite beds in Dalriada Hospital; and, that relevant key workers would be in contact to arrange appointments to meet and discuss options for their future respite care.\n\nThese initial meetings have now been completed and the Trust continues to liaise with service users as required. The Trust has also liaised with the Western Trust and Belfast Trust regarding the change.\n\nSenior Management of the Trust attended Dalriada Hospital on Thursday 30 October and engaged with patients and staff. The Trust further met with Moyle Council representatives on Monday 3 November and attended a public meeting on the same evening. Ongoing communication is also taking place with the MS Society.\n\nThe Trust will continue to do all it can to communicate with all stakeholders to ensure everyone understands the service options now available to them.","answerHtml":"Following my budget statement on Thursday 30 October 2014, the Northern Health and Social Care Trust contacted MS service users and families from the Northern Trust area to advise them: of the temporary closure of 12 Multiple Sclerosis respite beds in Dalriada Hospital; and, that relevant key workers would be in contact to arrange appointments to meet and discuss options for their future respite care.
These initial meetings have now been completed and the Trust continues to liaise with service users as required. The Trust has also liaised with the Western Trust and Belfast Trust regarding the change.
Senior Management of the Trust attended Dalriada Hospital on Thursday 30 October and engaged with patients and staff. The Trust further met with Moyle Council representatives on Monday 3 November and attended a public meeting on the same evening. Ongoing communication is also taking place with the MS Society.
The Trust will continue to do all it can to communicate with all stakeholders to ensure everyone understands the service options now available to them.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038430%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213308","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213308"}},{"id":"213307","reference":"AQW 38429/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-07","answerBy":"2014-11-24","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what specialist resources, including staff, are available at the Robinson Community Hospital, Ballymoney, for Multiple Sclerosis patients and their families.","answerText":"There are currently no Multiple Sclerosis (MS) specialist services provided at Robinson Community Hospital. However, two staff members have previously worked within the MS respite centre in Dalriada Hospital. Any equipment resources that are not already available within Robinson Hospital could be transferred from Dalriada as necessary.","answerHtml":"There are currently no Multiple Sclerosis (MS) specialist services provided at Robinson Community Hospital. However, two staff members have previously worked within the MS respite centre in Dalriada Hospital. Any equipment resources that are not already available within Robinson Hospital could be transferred from Dalriada as necessary.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038429%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213307","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213307"}},{"id":"213306","reference":"AQW 38428/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-07","answerBy":"2014-11-24","answered":"2014-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the repercussions for staff of Dalriada Hospital following its temporary closure.","answerText":"I am advised that there are just under 120 employees associated with the Dalriada Hospital site, and it is anticipated that 61 employees will be affected by the service change.\n\nPermanent staff will be redeployed to support acute, community and emergency services. No staff will lose their jobs and the hours they work will remain as per their contract.\n\nThere are a number of posts in the Causeway locality (ie Ballymoney, Coleraine and Ballycastle) and Human Resources staff and service managers, in partnership with Trade Unions, are currently working with staff to match their skills to posts available and to ensure that, as far as possible, individual circumstances are taken into account.","answerHtml":"I am advised that there are just under 120 employees associated with the Dalriada Hospital site, and it is anticipated that 61 employees will be affected by the service change.
Permanent staff will be redeployed to support acute, community and emergency services. No staff will lose their jobs and the hours they work will remain as per their contract.
There are a number of posts in the Causeway locality (ie Ballymoney, Coleraine and Ballycastle) and Human Resources staff and service managers, in partnership with Trade Unions, are currently working with staff to match their skills to posts available and to ensure that, as far as possible, individual circumstances are taken into account.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038428%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213306","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213306"}},{"id":"213204","reference":"AQW 38383/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-06","answerBy":"2014-11-21","answered":"2014-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what communication her Department, or associated arm’s-length bodies, have received from Coleraine Football Club Academy requesting financial assistance for grass roots soccer programmes; and to outline the nature of the responses provided.","answerText":"In March 2014, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, received a request for funding through Active Awards for Sport (Round 1) from Coleraine Football Club to support the running costs associated with the Mini Soccer Academy. Sport NI advised Coleraine Football Club that the application scored below the Quality Threshold for the programme and thus failed to secure funding.\n\nColeraine Football Club has recently submitted an application to Active Awards for Sport (Round 2) which closed on 20 October 2014 for the Mini Soccer Academy. I understand this was towards facility hire, coach education and advertising associated with a proposed project to increase participation in football by increasing the activities it offers to children and young people. Sport NI has advised that responses will be provided to all applicants in December 2014, when they will be notified whether their applications to the programmes have been successful.","answerHtml":"In March 2014, Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, received a request for funding through Active Awards for Sport (Round 1) from Coleraine Football Club to support the running costs associated with the Mini Soccer Academy. Sport NI advised Coleraine Football Club that the application scored below the Quality Threshold for the programme and thus failed to secure funding.
Coleraine Football Club has recently submitted an application to Active Awards for Sport (Round 2) which closed on 20 October 2014 for the Mini Soccer Academy. I understand this was towards facility hire, coach education and advertising associated with a proposed project to increase participation in football by increasing the activities it offers to children and young people. Sport NI has advised that responses will be provided to all applicants in December 2014, when they will be notified whether their applications to the programmes have been successful.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038383%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213204","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213204"}},{"id":"213203","reference":"AQW 38382/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-06","answerBy":"2014-11-21","answered":"2014-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how the withdrawal of funding from the tourism events fund will impact sports competitions in the North West, specifically the Foyle Cup and Milk Cup youth football tournaments and the North West 200.","answerText":"Responsibility for providing funding for events including the Foyle Cup, Milk Cup and North West 200, lies in the first instance with the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment.\n\nThe withdrawal of the funding from the tourism events fund has the potential to have a negative impact on the above competitions as well as having an impact on other events that bring visitors and participants to the north of Ireland.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for providing funding for events including the Foyle Cup, Milk Cup and North West 200, lies in the first instance with the Department for Enterprise, Trade and Investment.
The withdrawal of the funding from the tourism events fund has the potential to have a negative impact on the above competitions as well as having an impact on other events that bring visitors and participants to the north of Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038382%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213203","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213203"}},{"id":"213201","reference":"AQW 38381/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-06","answerBy":"2014-11-21","answered":"2014-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure whether she or departmental officials met the Chief Executive of Limavady Council to discuss progress for the Dungiven sports and community facilities project; and when her Department expects to receive a final draft business case for the project.","answerText":"I can confirm that officials from my Department and I met with Liam Flanagan, Chief Executive of Limavady Council on 12 March 2014 and again on 13 October 2014 to discuss the development of sports and community facilities in Dungiven.\n\nFurthermore, I can advise that Sport NI, an arm’s length body of my Department, has been in contact with the Council and is currently reviewing the business case for the project.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that officials from my Department and I met with Liam Flanagan, Chief Executive of Limavady Council on 12 March 2014 and again on 13 October 2014 to discuss the development of sports and community facilities in Dungiven.
Furthermore, I can advise that Sport NI, an arm’s length body of my Department, has been in contact with the Council and is currently reviewing the business case for the project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038381%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213201"}},{"id":"213200","reference":"AQW 38380/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-06","answerBy":"2014-11-21","answered":"2014-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how Sport Northern Ireland, as an arm’s-length body of her Department, are encouraging grass roots soccer programmes to operate on a cross-community basis and demonstrate an active commitment to equality.","answerText":"Sport NI supports governing bodies, including the Irish Football Association, to work towards achieving a required level of the Equality Standard for Sport. Sport NI has encouraged grass roots soccer programmes to operate on a cross-community basis and demonstrate an active commitment to equality as follows:\n\nSport NI was instrumental in the creation and support of the Irish Football Association’s ‘Football For All’ advisory panel whose aim is to ensure football in the north of Ireland promotes both equality of opportunity for all persons and good community relations.\n\nSport NI’s Active Communities programme employs 116 (Full Time Equivalent) coaches across the north of Ireland to encourage participation in sport and physical activity. The coaches deliver soccer programmes at a community level, many of which have a cross community aspect.\n\nDuring 2011/12, Sport NI provided funding of £6,596 to the NI Women’s Football Association under the Awards for Sport programme. This project increased grass roots soccer participation amongst girls aged 5-11 years of age, with 409 females benefitting from the project. The investment supported cross-community engagement amongst the clubs who benefitted from the funding.\n\nSince 2013, Sport NI has invested £330,000 in Midnight Street Soccer which is a community football project that involves late night football leagues at nine community facilities for young people aged 14 to 17 years and provides an opportunity for many young people from diverse backgrounds to come together through sport. The project also aims to make young people more aware of pertinent social issues that affect them and their communities and includes good community relations training as part of the programme.","answerHtml":"Sport NI supports governing bodies, including the Irish Football Association, to work towards achieving a required level of the Equality Standard for Sport. Sport NI has encouraged grass roots soccer programmes to operate on a cross-community basis and demonstrate an active commitment to equality as follows:
Sport NI was instrumental in the creation and support of the Irish Football Association’s ‘Football For All’ advisory panel whose aim is to ensure football in the north of Ireland promotes both equality of opportunity for all persons and good community relations.
Sport NI’s Active Communities programme employs 116 (Full Time Equivalent) coaches across the north of Ireland to encourage participation in sport and physical activity. The coaches deliver soccer programmes at a community level, many of which have a cross community aspect.
During 2011/12, Sport NI provided funding of £6,596 to the NI Women’s Football Association under the Awards for Sport programme. This project increased grass roots soccer participation amongst girls aged 5-11 years of age, with 409 females benefitting from the project. The investment supported cross-community engagement amongst the clubs who benefitted from the funding.
Since 2013, Sport NI has invested £330,000 in Midnight Street Soccer which is a community football project that involves late night football leagues at nine community facilities for young people aged 14 to 17 years and provides an opportunity for many young people from diverse backgrounds to come together through sport. The project also aims to make young people more aware of pertinent social issues that affect them and their communities and includes good community relations training as part of the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038380%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213200","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213200"}},{"id":"213199","reference":"AQW 38379/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-06","answerBy":"2014-11-21","answered":"2014-11-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how her Department is working with relevant stakeholders in East Londonderry to advance the aim of developing the North West as a hub for the creative industries and social innovation.","answerText":"Building on the successful delivery of the 2013 City of Culture year, I am committed to the development of the North West as a regional driver for creativity and innovation.\n\nMy officials are continuing to engage with stakeholders across the North West, including a number in Coleraine and Limavady.\n\nAs well as supporting a number of projects through the Creative Industries Innovation Fund in these areas, my Department has also supported the Stendhal Festival in Limavady, to assist the organisers with the delivery of the festival.\n\nI secured additional resource and capital funding through the October monitoring round and some of this funding will be allocated to projects within your constituency. Details of the projects which will receive funding are still being finalised and I will be making further announcements in due course.","answerHtml":"Building on the successful delivery of the 2013 City of Culture year, I am committed to the development of the North West as a regional driver for creativity and innovation.
My officials are continuing to engage with stakeholders across the North West, including a number in Coleraine and Limavady.
As well as supporting a number of projects through the Creative Industries Innovation Fund in these areas, my Department has also supported the Stendhal Festival in Limavady, to assist the organisers with the delivery of the festival.
I secured additional resource and capital funding through the October monitoring round and some of this funding will be allocated to projects within your constituency. Details of the projects which will receive funding are still being finalised and I will be making further announcements in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038379%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=213199","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=213199"}},{"id":"212942","reference":"AQW 38285/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-05","answerBy":"2014-11-20","answered":"2014-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the financial support available through his Department, and other bodies, for students from Northern Ireland who relocate to other areas of the UK for university education.","answerText":"In the current academic year 2014/2015, a Maintenance Loan of up to £6,780 is available for Northern Ireland domiciled students living and attending college in London. If the course is anywhere else in Great Britain, the loan available is up to £4,840. Twenty-five percent of the loan is means tested.\n\nMaintenance Grant (non repayable)\n\nThe maximum maintenance grant is £3,475 and is means tested. Students from households with an income of £19,203 or less should receive the maximum grant. Students from households with an income between £19,204 and £41,065 will receive a partial grant on a sliding scale basis.\n\nSpecial Support Grant (non repayable)\n\nA special support grant rather than a maintenance grant is payable to students who may be eligible to claim means-tested benefits such as Income Support and Housing Benefit. This will generally be lone parents, other student parents if they have a partner who is a student, and students with disabilities. The amount of the special support grant is £3,475 and is calculated in the same way as the maintenance grant. Unlike the maintenance grant, the special support grant will not affect the amount of maintenance loan the student may be entitled to.\n\nTuition fees (repayable)\n\nThe tuition fee loan is not means tested. However, it is restricted to the actual fee being charged up to a maximum of £9,000 in Great Britain.\n\nSupplementary Grants (non repayable)\n\nA range of other means tested grants are available to some students in certain circumstances (i.e. Parent Learning Allowance, Childcare Grant and Adult Dependants Grant). Non means tested Disabled Students Allowances are also available.\n\nIn addition, Universities in Great Britain offer Hardship Funds to provide help for students on lower income who may need extra financial support in order to remain in higher education. The funds can be used to meet course and living costs which are not already being met from other grants.","answerHtml":"In the current academic year 2014/2015, a Maintenance Loan of up to £6,780 is available for Northern Ireland domiciled students living and attending college in London. If the course is anywhere else in Great Britain, the loan available is up to £4,840. Twenty-five percent of the loan is means tested.
Maintenance Grant (non repayable)
The maximum maintenance grant is £3,475 and is means tested. Students from households with an income of £19,203 or less should receive the maximum grant. Students from households with an income between £19,204 and £41,065 will receive a partial grant on a sliding scale basis.
Special Support Grant (non repayable)
A special support grant rather than a maintenance grant is payable to students who may be eligible to claim means-tested benefits such as Income Support and Housing Benefit. This will generally be lone parents, other student parents if they have a partner who is a student, and students with disabilities. The amount of the special support grant is £3,475 and is calculated in the same way as the maintenance grant. Unlike the maintenance grant, the special support grant will not affect the amount of maintenance loan the student may be entitled to.
Tuition fees (repayable)
The tuition fee loan is not means tested. However, it is restricted to the actual fee being charged up to a maximum of £9,000 in Great Britain.
Supplementary Grants (non repayable)
A range of other means tested grants are available to some students in certain circumstances (i.e. Parent Learning Allowance, Childcare Grant and Adult Dependants Grant). Non means tested Disabled Students Allowances are also available.
In addition, Universities in Great Britain offer Hardship Funds to provide help for students on lower income who may need extra financial support in order to remain in higher education. The funds can be used to meet course and living costs which are not already being met from other grants.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038285%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212942","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212942"}},{"id":"212941","reference":"AQW 38284/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-05","answerBy":"2014-11-20","answered":"2014-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what communication his Department has had with universities on the current freeze on student fees, in light of departmental budgetary pressures.","answerText":"Executive policy is to keep tuition fees at their current levels rising only in line with inflation for Northern Ireland domiciled full time undergraduate students studying in Northern Ireland. I have met with the Vice Chancellors of Queen’s University Belfast and the Ulster University to discuss the implications of the significant budgetary pressures being faced by my Department and the resultant impact that this will have on their institutions.","answerHtml":"Executive policy is to keep tuition fees at their current levels rising only in line with inflation for Northern Ireland domiciled full time undergraduate students studying in Northern Ireland. I have met with the Vice Chancellors of Queen’s University Belfast and the Ulster University to discuss the implications of the significant budgetary pressures being faced by my Department and the resultant impact that this will have on their institutions.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038284%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212941","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212941"}},{"id":"212900","reference":"AQW 38283/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-05","answerBy":"2014-11-20","answered":"2014-12-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the North West Gateway Initiative has produced social and economic benefits for Limavady since its inception.","answerText":"A range of projects and co-operative activities between departments and other bodies have contributed to the aims of the North West Gateway Initiative since its establishment in 2006. While there has been no analysis of the impact of this initiative on specific towns in the North West the local area has benefited from the investment in health, education and infrastructure.","answerHtml":"A range of projects and co-operative activities between departments and other bodies have contributed to the aims of the North West Gateway Initiative since its establishment in 2006. While there has been no analysis of the impact of this initiative on specific towns in the North West the local area has benefited from the investment in health, education and infrastructure.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038283%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212900"}},{"id":"212899","reference":"AQW 38282/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-05","answerBy":"2014-11-20","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many projects have been developed in Limavady through the North West Gateway Initiative since its inception.","answerText":"The North-West Gateway Initiative has no dedicated funding for specific projects but aims to derive synergy through effective co-ordination of existing public expenditure by a range of departments and other bodies. A number of projects have been taken forward by individual departments, which have contributed to the aims of the initiative and which will benefit the entire north-west region.\n\nThese include significant EU funding provided to the region for projects such as Project Kelvin, the North-West Science Park, the Peace Bridge and other Environmental and Health projects. Other major projects include the establishment of a new radiotherapy centre at Altnagelvin and the continuing commitment to deliver on major infrastructural improvement through the upgrade to the A5 road.","answerHtml":"The North-West Gateway Initiative has no dedicated funding for specific projects but aims to derive synergy through effective co-ordination of existing public expenditure by a range of departments and other bodies. A number of projects have been taken forward by individual departments, which have contributed to the aims of the initiative and which will benefit the entire north-west region.
These include significant EU funding provided to the region for projects such as Project Kelvin, the North-West Science Park, the Peace Bridge and other Environmental and Health projects. Other major projects include the establishment of a new radiotherapy centre at Altnagelvin and the continuing commitment to deliver on major infrastructural improvement through the upgrade to the A5 road.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038282%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212899","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212899"}},{"id":"212898","reference":"AQW 38281/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-05","answerBy":"2014-11-20","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister whether the North West Gateway Initiative has met its initial aims and objectives to socially and economically improve the North West area, since 2006.","answerText":"The North-West Gateway Initiative (NWGI) was established to encourage a more integrated and joined up approach to economic growth in the north-west for the mutual benefit of the entire region. The extent to which this objective has been advanced has formed part of a review of the North-West Gateway Initiative (NWGI) on which the views of stakeholders in the north-west were sought.\n\nResponses received were positive and stakeholders have in particular welcomed the focus on the north-west by both the Northern Ireland Executive and the Republic of Ireland Government which the initiative has facilitated. The findings of the stakeholder consultation are now being considered and discussed with relevant departments as the next phase of the review.","answerHtml":"The North-West Gateway Initiative (NWGI) was established to encourage a more integrated and joined up approach to economic growth in the north-west for the mutual benefit of the entire region. The extent to which this objective has been advanced has formed part of a review of the North-West Gateway Initiative (NWGI) on which the views of stakeholders in the north-west were sought.
Responses received were positive and stakeholders have in particular welcomed the focus on the north-west by both the Northern Ireland Executive and the Republic of Ireland Government which the initiative has facilitated. The findings of the stakeholder consultation are now being considered and discussed with relevant departments as the next phase of the review.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038281%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212898","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212898"}},{"id":"212682","reference":"AQW 38217/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-04","answerBy":"2014-11-19","answered":"2014-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment how his Department is working with the DVLA offices in Swansea to address teething problems since the centralisation of services from Coleraine.","answerText":"Vehicle registration and licensing services were centralised within the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea on 21 July 2014. From that date, responsibility for the delivery of vehicle registration and licences in Northern Ireland transferred to DVLA.\n\nFollowing the transfer, I was aware that the DVLA were experiencing a number of transitional issues which were affecting local customers. I wrote to the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Robert Goodwill MP, on 13 August 2014, on behalf of Northern Ireland customers to express my disappointment that the level of service provided by DVLA was not of the high standard expected in Northern Ireland.\n\nIn response to my letter, Claire Perry MP, replied confirming that she was aware that there were issues with a small number of records, reassuring me that these would be rectified as a matter of priority. DVLA have since stated, at official level, that the initial teething problems have been rectified.\n\nSince the transfer of the service to Swansea, DVA has no access to the DVLA system to monitor or resolve issues relating to Northern Ireland motorists. Therefore, should you need to highlight a particular issue on behalf of a constituent you can raise it directly with the DVLA at the address below:\n\nMr Oliver Morley\n\nChief Executive\n\nDriver and Vehicle Licensing Agency\n\nSwansea\n\nSA6 7JL\n\nThere is also a dedicated telephone number and email address for MPs and other elected representatives, including MLAs, to contact DVLA on behalf of their constituents. Emails should be sent to dvlaministerials@dvla.gsi.gov.uk, or alternatively the telephone number is 01792 788585.","answerHtml":"Vehicle registration and licensing services were centralised within the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) in Swansea on 21 July 2014. From that date, responsibility for the delivery of vehicle registration and licences in Northern Ireland transferred to DVLA.
Following the transfer, I was aware that the DVLA were experiencing a number of transitional issues which were affecting local customers. I wrote to the Parliamentary Under Secretary of State, Robert Goodwill MP, on 13 August 2014, on behalf of Northern Ireland customers to express my disappointment that the level of service provided by DVLA was not of the high standard expected in Northern Ireland.
In response to my letter, Claire Perry MP, replied confirming that she was aware that there were issues with a small number of records, reassuring me that these would be rectified as a matter of priority. DVLA have since stated, at official level, that the initial teething problems have been rectified.
Since the transfer of the service to Swansea, DVA has no access to the DVLA system to monitor or resolve issues relating to Northern Ireland motorists. Therefore, should you need to highlight a particular issue on behalf of a constituent you can raise it directly with the DVLA at the address below:
Mr Oliver Morley
Chief Executive
Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency
Swansea
SA6 7JL
There is also a dedicated telephone number and email address for MPs and other elected representatives, including MLAs, to contact DVLA on behalf of their constituents. Emails should be sent to dvlaministerials@dvla.gsi.gov.uk, or alternatively the telephone number is 01792 788585.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038217%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212682","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212682"}},{"id":"212681","reference":"AQW 38216/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-04","answerBy":"2014-11-19","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the ratio of success to failure of new business start-ups in East Londonderry, in the last three years.","answerText":"This data is not currently available from the Office for National Statistics for parliamentary constituency area (PCA). However, the requested information is provided overleaf for those local government districts (LGD), which fall at least in part within the East Londonderry PCA, for the most recent three years available.\n\nTable: Number of business births and survival1 rates (2009-2011)\n\nColeraine LGD\t2009\t2010\t2011\nNew business births2\t100\t150\t90\n\nOne year survival\t80.0%\t88.3%\t88.9%\nTwo year survival\t65.0%\t66.7%\t..\nThree year survival\t55.0%\t..\t..\n\nLimavady LGD\nNew business births2\t70\t100\t75\n\nOne year survival\t85.7%\t90.0%\t93.3%\nTwo year survival\t64.3%\t80.0%\t..\nThree year survival\t57.1%\t..\t..\n\nDerry LGD\nNew business births2\t215\t235\t175\n\nOne year survival\t86.0%\t83.0%\t88.6%\nTwo year survival\t69.8%\t70.2%\t..\nThree year survival\t53.5%\t..\t..\n\nSource: Office for National Statistics (ONS), Business Demography 2012\n\n1 A business is deemed to have survived if having been a birth in year t or having survived to year t; it is active in terms of employment and/or turnover in any part of t+1\n\n2 A birth is identified as a business that was present in year t, but did not exist in year t-1 or t-2.","answerHtml":"This data is not currently available from the Office for National Statistics for parliamentary constituency area (PCA). However, the requested information is provided overleaf for those local government districts (LGD), which fall at least in part within the East Londonderry PCA, for the most recent three years available.
Table: Number of business births and survival1 rates (2009-2011)
| Coleraine LGD | 2009 | 2010 | 2011 |
| New business births2 | 100 | 150 | 90 |
| One year survival | 80.0% | 88.3% | 88.9% |
| Two year survival | 65.0% | 66.7% | .. |
| Three year survival | 55.0% | .. | .. |
| Limavady LGD | |||
| New business births2 | 70 | 100 | 75 |
| One year survival | 85.7% | 90.0% | 93.3% |
| Two year survival | 64.3% | 80.0% | .. |
| Three year survival | 57.1% | .. | .. |
| Derry LGD | |||
| New business births2 | 215 | 235 | 175 |
| One year survival | 86.0% | 83.0% | 88.6% |
| Two year survival | 69.8% | 70.2% | .. |
| Three year survival | 53.5% | .. | .. |
Source: Office for National Statistics (ONS), Business Demography 2012
1 A business is deemed to have survived if having been a birth in year t or having survived to year t; it is active in terms of employment and/or turnover in any part of t+1
2 A birth is identified as a business that was present in year t, but did not exist in year t-1 or t-2.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038216%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212681","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212681"}},{"id":"212680","reference":"AQW 38215/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-04","answerBy":"2014-11-19","answered":"2014-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development what his Department is doing to ensure maximum safety on the roads in the winter months, particularly those with difficult topography.","answerText":"My Department is well prepared for the coming winter season. Staffing arrangements are in place, pre-season checks on winter service equipment have been undertaken and salt stocks have been replenished. TransportNI has approximately 300 people on standby ready to salt main roads. Contracts are also in place to enable contractors and farmers to help to clear roads during periods of prolonged snowfall.\n\nTransportNI’s winter service policy and procedures, which set out the criteria for the salting of roads, are based on the well-established practice of targeting the limited resources available for this service on the busier main through routes. TransportNI salts main through routes carrying more than 1,500 vehicles per day. In exceptional circumstances, roads with difficult topography carrying between 1,000 and 1,500 vehicles per day will also be salted. The application of this policy ensures that 28% of the total road network, which carries around 80% of traffic, is salted.\n\nIn addition, small settlements in rural areas containing 100 dwellings or more also have salted links to roads on the main salted network and, priority “secondary” salting is provided to around 50 rural schools that are most affected by the adverse weather conditions. Salting may also be undertaken in urgent situations such as to provide access for the emergency services, unforeseen occurrences such as funerals or to help get fuel or feed stocks to farmers.\n\nIn addition, approximately 4,800 salt bins and almost 50,000 grit piles are provided on public roads for use by the public on a self-help basis.","answerHtml":"My Department is well prepared for the coming winter season. Staffing arrangements are in place, pre-season checks on winter service equipment have been undertaken and salt stocks have been replenished. TransportNI has approximately 300 people on standby ready to salt main roads. Contracts are also in place to enable contractors and farmers to help to clear roads during periods of prolonged snowfall.
TransportNI’s winter service policy and procedures, which set out the criteria for the salting of roads, are based on the well-established practice of targeting the limited resources available for this service on the busier main through routes. TransportNI salts main through routes carrying more than 1,500 vehicles per day. In exceptional circumstances, roads with difficult topography carrying between 1,000 and 1,500 vehicles per day will also be salted. The application of this policy ensures that 28% of the total road network, which carries around 80% of traffic, is salted.
In addition, small settlements in rural areas containing 100 dwellings or more also have salted links to roads on the main salted network and, priority “secondary” salting is provided to around 50 rural schools that are most affected by the adverse weather conditions. Salting may also be undertaken in urgent situations such as to provide access for the emergency services, unforeseen occurrences such as funerals or to help get fuel or feed stocks to farmers.
In addition, approximately 4,800 salt bins and almost 50,000 grit piles are provided on public roads for use by the public on a self-help basis.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038215%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212680","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212680"}},{"id":"212679","reference":"AQW 38214/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-04","answerBy":"2014-11-19","answered":"2014-11-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether his Department’s policy of priority secondary salting for rural schools will be in operation this winter.","answerText":"I can confirm that my Department’s winter service policy of priority secondary salting for rural schools will be in operation this winter.","answerHtml":"I can confirm that my Department’s winter service policy of priority secondary salting for rural schools will be in operation this winter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038214%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212679","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212679"}},{"id":"212678","reference":"AQW 38213/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-04","answerBy":"2014-11-19","answered":"2014-11-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development for an update on the Enterprise Refurbishment Programme.","answerText":"Work is ongoing to finalise all design areas and advance some outstanding procurement issues. The various work streams within the project are working in a co-ordinated way to deliver the project on time against its original completion date of December 2015.","answerHtml":"Work is ongoing to finalise all design areas and advance some outstanding procurement issues. The various work streams within the project are working in a co-ordinated way to deliver the project on time against its original completion date of December 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038213%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212678","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212678"}},{"id":"212500","reference":"AQW 38120/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-03","answerBy":"2014-11-18","answered":"2014-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on his Department’s Human Resources negotiations with NIPSA over the establishment of an Industrial Relations Framework.","answerText":"The Department recognises the value of good industrial relations and is committed to ensuring to the highest level of cooperation with Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) for the benefit of the organisation and its employee.\n\nNegotiations with NIPSA over the establishment of an Industrial Relations Framework are currently ongoing. Negotiations commenced on 7 October 2013 and NIPSA representatives were provided with a draft Industrial Relations Framework on this date. Human Resources (HR) met with NIPSA on 17 October 2013 at which time representatives were invited to put forward comments on the draft. NIPSA subsequently provided a revised draft Industrial Relation Framework to HR on 15 September 2014. HR is currently in the process of reviewing this draft and it is envisaged that a final document will be agreed by the end of the financial year.","answerHtml":"The Department recognises the value of good industrial relations and is committed to ensuring to the highest level of cooperation with Northern Ireland Public Service Alliance (NIPSA) for the benefit of the organisation and its employee.
Negotiations with NIPSA over the establishment of an Industrial Relations Framework are currently ongoing. Negotiations commenced on 7 October 2013 and NIPSA representatives were provided with a draft Industrial Relations Framework on this date. Human Resources (HR) met with NIPSA on 17 October 2013 at which time representatives were invited to put forward comments on the draft. NIPSA subsequently provided a revised draft Industrial Relation Framework to HR on 15 September 2014. HR is currently in the process of reviewing this draft and it is envisaged that a final document will be agreed by the end of the financial year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038120%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212500","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212500"}},{"id":"212498","reference":"AQW 38119/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-03","answerBy":"2014-11-18","answered":"2014-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for an update on the proposed shared Police, Fire and Prison Service training facility at Desertcreat.","answerText":"Development of a joint training college for the police, Prison Service and Fire and Rescue Service is a Programme for Government commitment. Decisions on this will be taken by the Executive.\n\nAt a recent meeting of the programme’s Steering Group, the three Services reiterated their commitment to some form of integration but expressed concern at the impact of budget reductions on their long term training requirements and their ability to meet future running costs.\n\nAs a result, the Steering Group has commissioned a two stage review. The first stage will involve the Programme Board urgently establishing what the present position means for the current procurement process. This will be completed within a short, two-week timescale. During this period, the Programme Board will also firm up the scope of the second stage review which will, inter alia, re-affirm the training requirements of the three Services and the scope for integration; review underlying assumptions; and establish what is appropriate, affordable and deliverable in the current budgetary climate.","answerHtml":"Development of a joint training college for the police, Prison Service and Fire and Rescue Service is a Programme for Government commitment. Decisions on this will be taken by the Executive.
At a recent meeting of the programme’s Steering Group, the three Services reiterated their commitment to some form of integration but expressed concern at the impact of budget reductions on their long term training requirements and their ability to meet future running costs.
As a result, the Steering Group has commissioned a two stage review. The first stage will involve the Programme Board urgently establishing what the present position means for the current procurement process. This will be completed within a short, two-week timescale. During this period, the Programme Board will also firm up the scope of the second stage review which will, inter alia, re-affirm the training requirements of the three Services and the scope for integration; review underlying assumptions; and establish what is appropriate, affordable and deliverable in the current budgetary climate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038119%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212498","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212498"}},{"id":"212497","reference":"AQW 38118/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-03","answerBy":"2014-11-18","answered":"2014-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on plans for a Northern Ireland Civil Service wide redundancy package, or voluntary exit scheme, in 2015.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Executive agreed a draft Budget on 30 October 2014. At this stage, departments are considering the impact that a range of strategic personnel interventions can effect towards a reduction in the NICS paybill.\n\nThe Department of Finance and Personnel, in close collaboration with other NI departments has begun the process of establishing the overall size of the pay bill reduction that needs to be delivered by the NICS and how this is to be achieved.\n\nThe Northern Ireland Executive asked the Department of Finance and Personnel to bring forward a range of proposals for strategic personnel interventions to effect a paybill reduction including a voluntary exit scheme. It is important to stress that a voluntary exit scheme is only one of a range of measures to be considered.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Executive agreed a draft Budget on 30 October 2014. At this stage, departments are considering the impact that a range of strategic personnel interventions can effect towards a reduction in the NICS paybill.
The Department of Finance and Personnel, in close collaboration with other NI departments has begun the process of establishing the overall size of the pay bill reduction that needs to be delivered by the NICS and how this is to be achieved.
The Northern Ireland Executive asked the Department of Finance and Personnel to bring forward a range of proposals for strategic personnel interventions to effect a paybill reduction including a voluntary exit scheme. It is important to stress that a voluntary exit scheme is only one of a range of measures to be considered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038118%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212497","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212497"}},{"id":"212495","reference":"AQW 38117/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-03","answerBy":"2014-11-18","answered":"2014-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of his Department’s treatment of staff under the Inefficiency Sick Absence policy.","answerText":"Managing sickness absence within the Northern Ireland Civil Service is a particularly challenging task and unfortunately there is no easy solution to what has become a persistent problem. In recent years, significant resources have been dedicated to reducing sickness absence levels and ensuring employees and managers are aware of and fulfil their roles and responsibilities however absence levels remain stubbornly high.\n\nMy Department implements the comprehensive range of NICS policies and procedures which are designed to address sickness absence and which are carefully balanced to ensure that employees are supported to maintain their health and wellbeing and remain in work or, where absence has occurred, to return to the workplace at the earliest possible opportunity. Unfortunately, circumstances can arise where neither of these options applies and in such cases early exit is appropriate.\n\nThe NICS Inefficiency Sickness Absence policy allows for inefficiency action, ranging from written warning to dismissal, to be taken where absence levels are unsatisfactory however mechanisms are in place for employees to challenge such decisions. I receive regular updates from my senior officials on sickness absence inefficiency activity and all such matters are also subject to regular internal and external scrutiny.\n\nI am satisfied that my Department applies the NICS policy in a consistent, robust and entirely proportionate manner which takes account of the circumstances of each individual case. I am also satisfied that the appropriate strategies, governance, reporting and monitoring arrangements are in place to support this approach.","answerHtml":"Managing sickness absence within the Northern Ireland Civil Service is a particularly challenging task and unfortunately there is no easy solution to what has become a persistent problem. In recent years, significant resources have been dedicated to reducing sickness absence levels and ensuring employees and managers are aware of and fulfil their roles and responsibilities however absence levels remain stubbornly high.
My Department implements the comprehensive range of NICS policies and procedures which are designed to address sickness absence and which are carefully balanced to ensure that employees are supported to maintain their health and wellbeing and remain in work or, where absence has occurred, to return to the workplace at the earliest possible opportunity. Unfortunately, circumstances can arise where neither of these options applies and in such cases early exit is appropriate.
The NICS Inefficiency Sickness Absence policy allows for inefficiency action, ranging from written warning to dismissal, to be taken where absence levels are unsatisfactory however mechanisms are in place for employees to challenge such decisions. I receive regular updates from my senior officials on sickness absence inefficiency activity and all such matters are also subject to regular internal and external scrutiny.
I am satisfied that my Department applies the NICS policy in a consistent, robust and entirely proportionate manner which takes account of the circumstances of each individual case. I am also satisfied that the appropriate strategies, governance, reporting and monitoring arrangements are in place to support this approach.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038117%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212495","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212495"}},{"id":"212494","reference":"AQW 38116/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-11-03","answerBy":"2014-11-18","answered":"2014-12-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel, in light of the comments by the Royal Bank of Scotland's Northern Ireland Chief Executive that Ulster Bank branch closures are inevitable, what communication her Department has had with the Royal Bank of Scotland and Ulster Bank.","answerText":"I have met with Ulster Bank and RBS senior management on several occasions this year to discuss a range of issues including the bank’s restructuring process. Clearly, it is disappointing that Ulster Bank sees a need to close a further ten branches in Northern Ireland as part of that process.","answerHtml":"I have met with Ulster Bank and RBS senior management on several occasions this year to discuss a range of issues including the bank’s restructuring process. Clearly, it is disappointing that Ulster Bank sees a need to close a further ten branches in Northern Ireland as part of that process.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2038116%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212494","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212494"}},{"id":"212022","reference":"AQW 37993/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-24","answerBy":"2014-11-10","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what impact the cancellation of the Tourism Events Fund will have on large events in East Londonderry, such as the International Air-show.","answerText":"The nature of the Tourism Events Fund is that organisers apply to the fund annually and therefore there is never any guarantee of receiving funding. When applicants apply to the scheme, applications are assessed through a competitive process and therefore there can never be any guarantee of funding.\n\nIn the financial year 2014/15 NITB funded 63 National events under the Tourism Events Sponsorship Scheme and 13 International events under the International Tourism Events Fund with a total contribution from NITB of £2.8million.\n\nHowever based on the information provided by the event organisers, the 76 events funded in 2014 are projected to:\n\nGenerate a £12:£1 return for every £1 invested by NITB; and\n\nTo attract 2.2m visitors.\n\nI am very keen for events to go ahead with funding, but at present there is not budget available to open a Tourism Event Funding Programme for 2015/16. However, when the 2015/16 budget is known the position will be reviewed.","answerHtml":"The nature of the Tourism Events Fund is that organisers apply to the fund annually and therefore there is never any guarantee of receiving funding. When applicants apply to the scheme, applications are assessed through a competitive process and therefore there can never be any guarantee of funding.
In the financial year 2014/15 NITB funded 63 National events under the Tourism Events Sponsorship Scheme and 13 International events under the International Tourism Events Fund with a total contribution from NITB of £2.8million.
However based on the information provided by the event organisers, the 76 events funded in 2014 are projected to:
Generate a £12:£1 return for every £1 invested by NITB; and
To attract 2.2m visitors.
I am very keen for events to go ahead with funding, but at present there is not budget available to open a Tourism Event Funding Programme for 2015/16. However, when the 2015/16 budget is known the position will be reviewed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037993%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212022","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212022"}},{"id":"212021","reference":"AQW 37992/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-24","answerBy":"2014-11-10","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the number of hospitality sector business start-ups in East Londonderry that received financial assistance from her Department in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The number of potential hospitality sector start-up businesses that received Invest NI financial support in each of the last three full financial years is outlined in the table below:\n\nYear\tNo of Hospitality Start-up Businesses Supported\n2011/12\t1\n2012/13\t1\n2013/14\t0\nTotal\t2\n\nNotes\n\nEach start-up business is counted in the financial year when it received its first package of financial support from Invest NI.\n\nIt is worth noting that in line with European and National guidelines, particularly due to issues with displacement, Invest NI is, in the vast majority of cases, limited to the provision of advisory support to companies operating within the hospitality sector.","answerHtml":"The number of potential hospitality sector start-up businesses that received Invest NI financial support in each of the last three full financial years is outlined in the table below:
| Year | No of Hospitality Start-up Businesses Supported |
| 2011/12 | 1 |
| 2012/13 | 1 |
| 2013/14 | 0 |
| Total | 2 |
Notes
Each start-up business is counted in the financial year when it received its first package of financial support from Invest NI.
It is worth noting that in line with European and National guidelines, particularly due to issues with displacement, Invest NI is, in the vast majority of cases, limited to the provision of advisory support to companies operating within the hospitality sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037992%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212021","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212021"}},{"id":"212020","reference":"AQW 37991/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-24","answerBy":"2014-11-10","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many jobs have been created in the hospitality sector in East Londonderry in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Invest NI is unable to provide a breakdown of how many jobs have been created in each of the last three years as information relating to job creation is commercially sensitive at business level while a project is still ‘live’. In order to ensure that individual companies are not identifiable, Invest NI therefore applies statistical disclosure controls.\n\nAs there are less than 5 companies in each individual year Invest NI is not able to release the information as an individual company could be identifiable.\n\nInformation relating to job creation by specific companies will become publically available once a project is complete and the control period has ended.","answerHtml":"Invest NI is unable to provide a breakdown of how many jobs have been created in each of the last three years as information relating to job creation is commercially sensitive at business level while a project is still ‘live’. In order to ensure that individual companies are not identifiable, Invest NI therefore applies statistical disclosure controls.
As there are less than 5 companies in each individual year Invest NI is not able to release the information as an individual company could be identifiable.
Information relating to job creation by specific companies will become publically available once a project is complete and the control period has ended.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037991%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212020","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212020"}},{"id":"212019","reference":"AQW 37990/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-24","answerBy":"2014-11-10","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail any proposals for the provision of large scale tourist accommodation in East Londonderry that her Department has received in the last twelve months.","answerText":"Invest NI has received no proposals in the last twelve months for the provision of large scale tourist accommodation in East Londonderry. Invest NI does, however, continue to offer its range of developmental advice and financial support to established tourism accommodation businesses in the area.","answerHtml":"Invest NI has received no proposals in the last twelve months for the provision of large scale tourist accommodation in East Londonderry. Invest NI does, however, continue to offer its range of developmental advice and financial support to established tourism accommodation businesses in the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037990%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212019","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212019"}},{"id":"212018","reference":"AQW 37989/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-24","answerBy":"2014-11-10","answered":"2014-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for her assessment of the impact of the cancellation of the Tourism Events Fund on the recent growth in tourism and hospitality.","answerText":"The overall financial position for the Northern Ireland Block for 2015/16 is very difficult. It is on this basis that applications are not being sought for the Events Fund for National Sponsorship Scheme and new International Events in 2015/16.\n\nCurrently 9 International events have a commitment of receiving 3 year letter of offer from 2014/15 through to 2016/17 and will not be affected by the current funding situation.","answerHtml":"The overall financial position for the Northern Ireland Block for 2015/16 is very difficult. It is on this basis that applications are not being sought for the Events Fund for National Sponsorship Scheme and new International Events in 2015/16.
Currently 9 International events have a commitment of receiving 3 year letter of offer from 2014/15 through to 2016/17 and will not be affected by the current funding situation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037989%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212018","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212018"}},{"id":"211767","reference":"AQW 37893/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-23","answerBy":"2014-11-07","answered":"2014-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on the proposed new facility for the Northern Regional College.","answerText":"The Northern Regional College is currently preparing a business case for the provision of further education in the Ballymoney, Coleraine and Ballymena areas. Until the outcome of that business case is known and associated funding identified, it is not possible to provide details of any preferred option.","answerHtml":"The Northern Regional College is currently preparing a business case for the provision of further education in the Ballymoney, Coleraine and Ballymena areas. Until the outcome of that business case is known and associated funding identified, it is not possible to provide details of any preferred option.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037893%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211767","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211767"}},{"id":"211766","reference":"AQW 37892/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-23","answerBy":"2014-11-07","answered":"2014-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what fiscal support currently exists for farm businesses, specifically in the agri-food sector, which are seeking to expand.","answerText":"There is currently no financial support available to new applicants seeking to expand their businesses.\n\nThe final tranches of financial assistance under the EU–funded Rural Development Programme 2007-13 Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings and the Agricultural and Forestry Processing and Marketing Scheme measures, have now closed.\n\nOn 14 October 2014 I announced the submission of the draft Rural Development Programme 2014-20 to the European Commission. Subject to EU approval, anticipated by April 2015, the proposed Farm Business Improvement and the Agri-food Processing Investment Schemes will provide extensive support for sustainable growth in the agri-food sector.","answerHtml":"There is currently no financial support available to new applicants seeking to expand their businesses.
The final tranches of financial assistance under the EU–funded Rural Development Programme 2007-13 Modernisation of Agricultural Holdings and the Agricultural and Forestry Processing and Marketing Scheme measures, have now closed.
On 14 October 2014 I announced the submission of the draft Rural Development Programme 2014-20 to the European Commission. Subject to EU approval, anticipated by April 2015, the proposed Farm Business Improvement and the Agri-food Processing Investment Schemes will provide extensive support for sustainable growth in the agri-food sector.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037892%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211766","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211766"}},{"id":"211765","reference":"AQW 37891/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-23","answerBy":"2014-11-07","answered":"2014-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether he has agreed on a location for the proposed new facility for the Northern Regional College.","answerText":"The Northern Regional College is currently preparing a business case for the provision of further education in the Ballymoney, Coleraine and Ballymena areas. Until the outcome of that business case is known and associated funding identified, it is not possible to provide details of any preferred option.","answerHtml":"The Northern Regional College is currently preparing a business case for the provision of further education in the Ballymoney, Coleraine and Ballymena areas. Until the outcome of that business case is known and associated funding identified, it is not possible to provide details of any preferred option.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037891%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211765","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211765"}},{"id":"211764","reference":"AQW 37890/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-23","answerBy":"2014-11-07","answered":"2014-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of rural enterprises in the agri-food sector in East Londonderry that her Department has supported through funding for capital investment projects in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Funding for capital investment has been awarded under Axis 1 and Axis 3 of the Rural Development Programme 2007-13 to 243 rural enterprises in the agri-food sector in East Londonderry in the past three years as detailed below:\n\n2012\n\nRDP Funding SchemeProjectsGrant Awarded\n\nManure Efficiency (Axis 1)5£49,900\n\nBusiness Development &1£38,754\n\nGrowth (Axis 3)\n\nTotal6£88,654\n\n2013\n\nRDP Funding SchemeProjectsGrant Awarded\n\nFarm Modernisation (Axis 1)224 £622,241\n\nTotal224£622,241\n\n2014\n\nRDP Funding SchemeProjectsGrant Awarded\n\nManure Efficiency (Axis 1) 7£70,000\n\nProcessing & Marketing (Axis 1) 5£673,484\n\nBusiness Development & 1£30,000\n\nGrowth (Axis 3)\n\nTotal 13£773,484\n\nTotal 2012 - 2014: 243 projects were awarded funding for capital investment totalling £1,484,379","answerHtml":"Funding for capital investment has been awarded under Axis 1 and Axis 3 of the Rural Development Programme 2007-13 to 243 rural enterprises in the agri-food sector in East Londonderry in the past three years as detailed below:
2012
RDP Funding SchemeProjectsGrant Awarded
Manure Efficiency (Axis 1)5£49,900
Business Development &1£38,754
Growth (Axis 3)
Total6£88,654
2013
RDP Funding SchemeProjectsGrant Awarded
Farm Modernisation (Axis 1)224 £622,241
Total224£622,241
2014
RDP Funding SchemeProjectsGrant Awarded
Manure Efficiency (Axis 1) 7£70,000
Processing & Marketing (Axis 1) 5£673,484
Business Development & 1£30,000
Growth (Axis 3)
Total 13£773,484
Total 2012 - 2014: 243 projects were awarded funding for capital investment totalling £1,484,379
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037890%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211764","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211764"}},{"id":"211763","reference":"AQW 37889/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-23","answerBy":"2014-11-07","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how he is currently engaging with relevant stakeholders to ensure that parents of prospective pupils are aware of, and included in, all discussions regarding plans for the transition process, following the amalgamation of Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution.","answerText":"The North-Eastern Education and Library Board advises that following my approval of a Development Proposal to establish a new Co-Educational Grammar School in Coleraine, an Interim Board of Governors for the school has been established, comprising equal representation from Coleraine Academical Institution and Coleraine High School. In accordance with TNC 2013/2 (School Reorganisation Agreement) the Interim Board of Governors will conduct all necessary business in respect of the establishment of the school.","answerHtml":"The North-Eastern Education and Library Board advises that following my approval of a Development Proposal to establish a new Co-Educational Grammar School in Coleraine, an Interim Board of Governors for the school has been established, comprising equal representation from Coleraine Academical Institution and Coleraine High School. In accordance with TNC 2013/2 (School Reorganisation Agreement) the Interim Board of Governors will conduct all necessary business in respect of the establishment of the school.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037889%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211763","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211763"}},{"id":"211526","reference":"AQW 37835/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-22","answerBy":"2014-11-06","answered":"2014-10-31","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what financial support has been provided by his Department to assist public health initiatives in East Londonderry, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"This information is available on two levels -\n\n(i) direct public health investment in the Coleraine and Limavady areas specifically.\n\n(ii) funding, on a capitation basis, invested in Trust wide areas and accessible to the local population in East Londonderry. This would include for example training, public health awareness campaigns and local projects.\n\nTable: Summary of Public Health Investment in East Londonderry 2012-15\n\nLevel\t2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15\tTotals\nLocal Direct Investment\t£126,814.00\t£98,364.00\t£86,834.00\t£312,012.00\nTrust Capitation Share Investment\t£212,713.00\t£197,821.00\t£205,305.00\t£615,839.00\nTotal\t£339,527.00\t£296,185.00\t£292,139.00\t£927,851.00\n\nThese figures do not include wider investment in health and social care services, eg screening, immunisations and child health services which will also support public health, nor in regionally available programmes.","answerHtml":"This information is available on two levels -
(i) direct public health investment in the Coleraine and Limavady areas specifically.
(ii) funding, on a capitation basis, invested in Trust wide areas and accessible to the local population in East Londonderry. This would include for example training, public health awareness campaigns and local projects.
Table: Summary of Public Health Investment in East Londonderry 2012-15
| Level | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15 | Totals |
| Local Direct Investment | £126,814.00 | £98,364.00 | £86,834.00 | £312,012.00 |
| Trust Capitation Share Investment | £212,713.00 | £197,821.00 | £205,305.00 | £615,839.00 |
| Total | £339,527.00 | £296,185.00 | £292,139.00 | £927,851.00 |
These figures do not include wider investment in health and social care services, eg screening, immunisations and child health services which will also support public health, nor in regionally available programmes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037835%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211526","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211526"}},{"id":"211525","reference":"AQW 37834/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-22","answerBy":"2014-11-06","answered":"2014-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current level of resource wastage in the Health Service, in relation to unused drugs and dietary supplements in hospital and residential care environments.","answerText":"I have been advised by each of the HSC Trusts that they are fully aware of the need to minimise medicines wastage and a range of systems and initiatives are in place to keep wastage to a minimum. However, it is not possible to fully quantify the amount of wastage in relation to unused drugs and dietary supplements in hospital and residential care environments.","answerHtml":"I have been advised by each of the HSC Trusts that they are fully aware of the need to minimise medicines wastage and a range of systems and initiatives are in place to keep wastage to a minimum. However, it is not possible to fully quantify the amount of wastage in relation to unused drugs and dietary supplements in hospital and residential care environments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037834%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211525","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211525"}},{"id":"211524","reference":"AQW 37833/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-22","answerBy":"2014-11-06","answered":"2014-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the Social Investment Fund has supported individuals and families facing economic hardship in East Londonderry since 2012.","answerText":"Three projects were prioritised by the Derry/Londonderry Zone Steering Group within the budget allocated to this zone for delivery of the area plan.\n\nOne of these projects, the Community Work Programme has been approved for funding and is subject to an agreed letter of offer. Officials are currently working with the lead partner to finalise letter of offer conditions so that it can progress to delivery shortly. Therefore, whilst delivery has not yet commenced and it is not possible at this stage to determine the impact given the focus of this project on training and employment, it is expected that on implementation it will provide support to the long term unemployed and particularly the under 25s, which are likely to include families and individuals facing economic hardship.","answerHtml":"Three projects were prioritised by the Derry/Londonderry Zone Steering Group within the budget allocated to this zone for delivery of the area plan.
One of these projects, the Community Work Programme has been approved for funding and is subject to an agreed letter of offer. Officials are currently working with the lead partner to finalise letter of offer conditions so that it can progress to delivery shortly. Therefore, whilst delivery has not yet commenced and it is not possible at this stage to determine the impact given the focus of this project on training and employment, it is expected that on implementation it will provide support to the long term unemployed and particularly the under 25s, which are likely to include families and individuals facing economic hardship.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037833%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211524","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211524"}},{"id":"211522","reference":"AQW 37831/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-22","answerBy":"2014-11-06","answered":"2014-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the Social Investment Fund has been used to support the community/voluntary sector as a means of targeting educational underachievement and skills shortage in East Londonderry, since 2012.","answerText":"One of the projects prioritised by the Derry/Londonderry Zone Steering Group in their Area Plan is the Community Work Programme. This project has been designed to improve employment prospects for the long term unemployed and particularly the under 25s. It aims to provide tailored training to participants and subsequent placements with a view to linking training and education to securing employment. Officials are currently working with the lead partner to finalise letter of offer conditions so that it can progress to delivery across the Derry/Londonderry zone.","answerHtml":"One of the projects prioritised by the Derry/Londonderry Zone Steering Group in their Area Plan is the Community Work Programme. This project has been designed to improve employment prospects for the long term unemployed and particularly the under 25s. It aims to provide tailored training to participants and subsequent placements with a view to linking training and education to securing employment. Officials are currently working with the lead partner to finalise letter of offer conditions so that it can progress to delivery across the Derry/Londonderry zone.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037831%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211522","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211522"}},{"id":"211520","reference":"AQW 37829/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-22","answerBy":"2014-11-06","answered":"2014-11-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how many business start ups the Social Investment Fund has supported in areas of deprivation in East Londonderry, since 2012.","answerText":"None of the three projects prioritised by the Derry/Londonderry Zone Steering Group within their funding allocation are focused on supporting business start-ups.","answerHtml":"None of the three projects prioritised by the Derry/Londonderry Zone Steering Group within their funding allocation are focused on supporting business start-ups.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037829%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211520","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211520"}},{"id":"211445","reference":"AQW 37801/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-21","answerBy":"2014-11-05","answered":"2014-11-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the increase in the number of further education qualifications provided for by his Department in each year since the launch of his Department’s Skills Strategy.","answerText":"I have interpreted your question as being about the number of qualifications achieved by learners in further education colleges, which have been funded by the Department through the further education recurrent grant.\n\nOn this basis, the numbers of qualifications achieved by learners in further education colleges between 2010/11 and 2012/13 are provided in the table below.\n\nAcademic Year\tAchievements\n2010/11\t51,443\n2011/12\t53,066\n2012/13\t61,932\n\nSource: Funded Learning Unit (FLU) data.\n\nThe figures provided above exclude Essential Skills. The numbers of qualifications achieved by learners in further education colleges in the Essential Skills of literacy, numeracy and ICT, over the same period, are provided in the table below.\n\nAcademic Year\tAchievements\n2010/11\t14,907\n2011/12\t16,132\n2012/13\t15,643\n\nSource: Funded Learning Unit (FLU) data.\n\n2010/11 is the earliest academic year for which the Department holds validated and reliable data on learner achievements in further education colleges. The 2012/13 academic year is the most recent year for which validated data is available.","answerHtml":"I have interpreted your question as being about the number of qualifications achieved by learners in further education colleges, which have been funded by the Department through the further education recurrent grant.
On this basis, the numbers of qualifications achieved by learners in further education colleges between 2010/11 and 2012/13 are provided in the table below.
| Academic Year | Achievements |
| 2010/11 | 51,443 |
| 2011/12 | 53,066 |
| 2012/13 | 61,932 |
Source: Funded Learning Unit (FLU) data.
The figures provided above exclude Essential Skills. The numbers of qualifications achieved by learners in further education colleges in the Essential Skills of literacy, numeracy and ICT, over the same period, are provided in the table below.
| Academic Year | Achievements |
| 2010/11 | 14,907 |
| 2011/12 | 16,132 |
| 2012/13 | 15,643 |
Source: Funded Learning Unit (FLU) data.
2010/11 is the earliest academic year for which the Department holds validated and reliable data on learner achievements in further education colleges. The 2012/13 academic year is the most recent year for which validated data is available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037801%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211445","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211445"}},{"id":"211444","reference":"AQW 37800/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-21","answerBy":"2014-11-05","answered":"2014-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many additional PhD places his Department has provided funding for in areas of economic relevance, since 2012.","answerText":"Under the Jobs and Economy Initiative and the Higher Education Strategy, I secured funding for a further 351 additional PhD places, all of which are in areas of economic relevance. Starting in 2013/14, in line with the previous approach, these have been phased in at a rate of 117 per year, meaning that, at this point, my Department is providing funding for 234 additional PhDs.","answerHtml":"Under the Jobs and Economy Initiative and the Higher Education Strategy, I secured funding for a further 351 additional PhD places, all of which are in areas of economic relevance. Starting in 2013/14, in line with the previous approach, these have been phased in at a rate of 117 per year, meaning that, at this point, my Department is providing funding for 234 additional PhDs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037800%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211444","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211444"}},{"id":"211443","reference":"AQW 37799/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-21","answerBy":"2014-11-05","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of Post-Graduate awards that his Department has provided in partnership with universities, in each year since 2011.","answerText":"My Department makes available funding for postgraduate awards in the form of PhD studentships at the Queen’s University Belfast and The University of Ulster. At the discretion of the awarding university, these awards can be commuted to students undertaking a Masters Research degree (MRes). The awards since 2011 are as follows:\n\nAcademic YearFunded PhD StudentshipsCommuted to MRes\n\n2011/12695 20\n\n2012/13595 18\n\n2013/14631 NA\n\n2014/15729 NA\n\nInformation in respect of funded MRes degrees for academic years 2013/14 and 2014/15 is not yet available.\n\nIn addition to the above, my Department also provides funding for the Aerospace MSc Bursary Programme. In academic year 2013/14 DEL supported 11 bursary holders and in academic year 2014/15 is supporting 10. There will be a further intake of bursary holders in academic year 2015/16.","answerHtml":"My Department makes available funding for postgraduate awards in the form of PhD studentships at the Queen’s University Belfast and The University of Ulster. At the discretion of the awarding university, these awards can be commuted to students undertaking a Masters Research degree (MRes). The awards since 2011 are as follows:
Academic YearFunded PhD StudentshipsCommuted to MRes
2011/12695 20
2012/13595 18
2013/14631 NA
2014/15729 NA
Information in respect of funded MRes degrees for academic years 2013/14 and 2014/15 is not yet available.
In addition to the above, my Department also provides funding for the Aerospace MSc Bursary Programme. In academic year 2013/14 DEL supported 11 bursary holders and in academic year 2014/15 is supporting 10. There will be a further intake of bursary holders in academic year 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037799%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211443","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211443"}},{"id":"211442","reference":"AQW 37798/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-21","answerBy":"2014-11-05","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of departmental funded PhD places available in each year since 2012.","answerText":"Since 2012, my Department has made available funding for up to the following numbers of PhD studentships at the Queen’s University Belfast and The University of Ulster:\n\nAcademic Year PhD Studentships\n\n2012/13595\n\n2013/14631\n\n2014/15729\n\nThe universities can at their discretion commute some of these PhD studentships to students undertaking Masters Research degrees, although this is uncommon.","answerHtml":"Since 2012, my Department has made available funding for up to the following numbers of PhD studentships at the Queen’s University Belfast and The University of Ulster:
Academic Year PhD Studentships
2012/13595
2013/14631
2014/15729
The universities can at their discretion commute some of these PhD studentships to students undertaking Masters Research degrees, although this is uncommon.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037798%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211442","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211442"}},{"id":"211439","reference":"AQW 37795/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-21","answerBy":"2014-11-05","answered":"2014-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many additional PhD places, which are financially supported by business and philanthropy, his Department has matched funding for in each year since 2012.","answerText":"My Department funds a baseline number of 495 postgraduate awards (PGAs) each year. Through the Higher Education strategy, I committed to considering funding additional places in areas of economic relevance and matching funding for places which are financially supported by business and philanthropy. The overall outcome reflected in the Strategy was to double the number of awards to 1,000 by 2020.\n\nIn response to this commitment, I have secured resources for an additional 351 PGAs, which are being funded from the Executive’s Jobs and Economy Initiative and from my Department’s Higher Education resources. These additional PGAs are being phased in from academic year 2013/14 at the rate of 117 per year and, rather than specifically match funding business or philanthropy places, the additional PGAs are targeted towards subjects deemed to be economically relevant.\n\nBased on the current arrangements, the Department will be directly funding 846 postgraduate awards by 2015/16.","answerHtml":"My Department funds a baseline number of 495 postgraduate awards (PGAs) each year. Through the Higher Education strategy, I committed to considering funding additional places in areas of economic relevance and matching funding for places which are financially supported by business and philanthropy. The overall outcome reflected in the Strategy was to double the number of awards to 1,000 by 2020.
In response to this commitment, I have secured resources for an additional 351 PGAs, which are being funded from the Executive’s Jobs and Economy Initiative and from my Department’s Higher Education resources. These additional PGAs are being phased in from academic year 2013/14 at the rate of 117 per year and, rather than specifically match funding business or philanthropy places, the additional PGAs are targeted towards subjects deemed to be economically relevant.
Based on the current arrangements, the Department will be directly funding 846 postgraduate awards by 2015/16.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037795%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211439","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211439"}},{"id":"211168","reference":"AQW 37704/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-20","answerBy":"2014-11-04","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many places the University of Ulster at Coleraine has lost to the Magee campus, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"This is not information that my Department holds. However, the University of Ulster has confirmed that over the last three years, no places have been lost from the Coleraine campus to the Magee campus.","answerHtml":"This is not information that my Department holds. However, the University of Ulster has confirmed that over the last three years, no places have been lost from the Coleraine campus to the Magee campus.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037704%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211168","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211168"}},{"id":"211167","reference":"AQW 37703/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-20","answerBy":"2014-11-04","answered":"2014-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for her assessment of the (i) bureaucracy barriers with Invest NI in respect of encouraging inward investment in Northern Ireland; and (ii) information requested of companies wishing to locate in Northern Ireland, compared to information requested in the Republic of Ireland.","answerText":"(i) Invest NI competes in a very competitive international market for inward investment. This involves a significant element of business development, which includes running tailored inward visits for potential international investors. This is a proactive process, which hopefully results in Northern Ireland being considered as a suitable investment location.\n\nAs the relationship with the potential investor develops, both parties will exchange information. The company will carry out detailed due diligence on Northern Ireland, including skills, operating costs, academic linkages and property. Invest NI will carry out detailed due diligence on the company and its business plan, ahead of securing funding and agreeing a Letter of Offer with the company. This process is not considered to be bureaucratic by the companies as the majority have been through a similar process to raise money from investors, Banks, Venture Capital and for some, the Stock Market.\n\nInvest NI recognises that this engagement process is central to building a positive relationship with potential and existing investors. This process is independently reviewed, with results from Invest NI’s 2014 Annual Customer satisfaction survey showing that for those who received funding from Invest NI, that 79% were satisfied with the application process and 73% were content with the time taken to approve their application.\n\nTherefore, Invest NI is confident that there are no unnecessary barriers in respect of encouraging inward investment in Northern Ireland.\n\n(ii) Invest NI has not carried out a detailed analysis of due diligence and approval processes across the UK and Ireland, however it has met with a number of the development agencies, including those in the Republic of Ireland, to share experiences and to discuss matters of mutual interest. It is clear from these discussions that the due diligence and approval processes are very similar. This should be expected as the funding schemes run by Invest NI and the Irish development agencies are governed by the EU. There should be consistency in approach, funding levels and the kinds of information requested.\n\nTherefore, Invest NI is confident that the information requested of companies wishing to locate in Northern Ireland, would be comparable to information requested in the Republic of Ireland, and in other parts of the UK.","answerHtml":"(i) Invest NI competes in a very competitive international market for inward investment. This involves a significant element of business development, which includes running tailored inward visits for potential international investors. This is a proactive process, which hopefully results in Northern Ireland being considered as a suitable investment location.
As the relationship with the potential investor develops, both parties will exchange information. The company will carry out detailed due diligence on Northern Ireland, including skills, operating costs, academic linkages and property. Invest NI will carry out detailed due diligence on the company and its business plan, ahead of securing funding and agreeing a Letter of Offer with the company. This process is not considered to be bureaucratic by the companies as the majority have been through a similar process to raise money from investors, Banks, Venture Capital and for some, the Stock Market.
Invest NI recognises that this engagement process is central to building a positive relationship with potential and existing investors. This process is independently reviewed, with results from Invest NI’s 2014 Annual Customer satisfaction survey showing that for those who received funding from Invest NI, that 79% were satisfied with the application process and 73% were content with the time taken to approve their application.
Therefore, Invest NI is confident that there are no unnecessary barriers in respect of encouraging inward investment in Northern Ireland.
(ii) Invest NI has not carried out a detailed analysis of due diligence and approval processes across the UK and Ireland, however it has met with a number of the development agencies, including those in the Republic of Ireland, to share experiences and to discuss matters of mutual interest. It is clear from these discussions that the due diligence and approval processes are very similar. This should be expected as the funding schemes run by Invest NI and the Irish development agencies are governed by the EU. There should be consistency in approach, funding levels and the kinds of information requested.
Therefore, Invest NI is confident that the information requested of companies wishing to locate in Northern Ireland, would be comparable to information requested in the Republic of Ireland, and in other parts of the UK.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037703%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211167","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211167"}},{"id":"211166","reference":"AQW 37702/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-20","answerBy":"2014-11-04","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what correspondence he has had with the University of Ulster on deploying student places from Coleraine to Magee, in order to meet the ‘One Plan’ target.","answerText":"I have on several occasions mentioned publicly and in correspondence that the University of Ulster is at liberty to deploy its MaSN allocation across its campuses as it sees fit. I have asked the University to consider moving places to the Magee campus in order to help achieve the One Plan interim target of 1,000 additional undergraduate places by 2015. However, I have not suggested from which campus the places should be moved as that is a matter entirely for the University.","answerHtml":"I have on several occasions mentioned publicly and in correspondence that the University of Ulster is at liberty to deploy its MaSN allocation across its campuses as it sees fit. I have asked the University to consider moving places to the Magee campus in order to help achieve the One Plan interim target of 1,000 additional undergraduate places by 2015. However, I have not suggested from which campus the places should be moved as that is a matter entirely for the University.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037702%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211166"}},{"id":"211165","reference":"AQW 37701/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-20","answerBy":"2014-11-04","answered":"2014-11-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail any interest for inward investment in East Londonderry since 1 April 2013; and how her Department and Invest NI have followed each of these up.","answerText":"There have been three visits by potential investors to the East Londonderry PCA between 1 April 2013 and 1 October 2014. One of these developed into an investment project but the company concerned decided to locate elsewhere in Northern Ireland.\n\nInvest NI remains in contact with the other two companies; however at this point discussions are still at an early stage.\n\nInvest NI seeks to build positive relationships with potential investors through hosting visits and maintaining regular contact. The decision whether to invest and where, is a matter for the company concerned and often takes place after a prolonged period of internal research and evaluation. All discussions and contact between Invest NI and a potential investor are regarded as ‘commercial in confidence’ until a formal offer is accepted.","answerHtml":"There have been three visits by potential investors to the East Londonderry PCA between 1 April 2013 and 1 October 2014. One of these developed into an investment project but the company concerned decided to locate elsewhere in Northern Ireland.
Invest NI remains in contact with the other two companies; however at this point discussions are still at an early stage.
Invest NI seeks to build positive relationships with potential investors through hosting visits and maintaining regular contact. The decision whether to invest and where, is a matter for the company concerned and often takes place after a prolonged period of internal research and evaluation. All discussions and contact between Invest NI and a potential investor are regarded as ‘commercial in confidence’ until a formal offer is accepted.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037701%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211165","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211165"}},{"id":"211009","reference":"AQW 37644/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-17","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many people in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry are employed in the hospitality sector.","answerText":"It is not possible to provide a comprehensive estimate of how many people in Northern Ireland and East Londonderry are employed in the hospitality sector. This is because the hospitality sector includes categories that are not separately identified within the UK Standard Industrial Classification system (SIC2007) used to classify business activity.\n\nHowever, for information, the number of employee jobs in “accommodation and food service activities” as well as “convention and trade show organisers”, which is a broad definition of the hospitality sector, is provided in the attached Table 1 for the year 2013 (the latest available).\n\nTable 1 Number of Jobs in Hospitality Sector\n\nYear\tNumber of Employee Jobs in “Hospitality Sector” in East Londonderry\tNumber of Employee Jobs in “Hospitality Sector” in Northern Ireland\n2013\t2,853\t43,137\n\nSource: NI Census of Employment, September 2013","answerHtml":"It is not possible to provide a comprehensive estimate of how many people in Northern Ireland and East Londonderry are employed in the hospitality sector. This is because the hospitality sector includes categories that are not separately identified within the UK Standard Industrial Classification system (SIC2007) used to classify business activity.
However, for information, the number of employee jobs in “accommodation and food service activities” as well as “convention and trade show organisers”, which is a broad definition of the hospitality sector, is provided in the attached Table 1 for the year 2013 (the latest available).
Table 1 Number of Jobs in Hospitality Sector
| Year | Number of Employee Jobs in “Hospitality Sector” in East Londonderry | Number of Employee Jobs in “Hospitality Sector” in Northern Ireland |
| 2013 | 2,853 | 43,137 |
Source: NI Census of Employment, September 2013
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037644%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211009","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211009"}},{"id":"211008","reference":"AQW 37643/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-17","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment when she expects the enterprise zone in Coleraine to be confirmed by Her Majesty's Treasury.","answerText":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs), which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure.\n\nThe pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer ECAs as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering ECAs is ultimately for Treasury. Discussions are ongoing between the relevant stakeholders to put the necessary arrangements in place and it is anticipated that formal designation of the zone by HMT will be progressed as soon as those discussions have concluded.","answerHtml":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs), which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure.
The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Chancellor’s Budget statement in March 2014 will only offer ECAs as an incentive. The decision to designate a particular area offering ECAs is ultimately for Treasury. Discussions are ongoing between the relevant stakeholders to put the necessary arrangements in place and it is anticipated that formal designation of the zone by HMT will be progressed as soon as those discussions have concluded.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037643%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211008","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211008"}},{"id":"211007","reference":"AQW 37642/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-17","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department is working with relevant bodies, including the Irish Football Association, to address violent and anti-social behaviour by football fans attending Irish league matches.","answerText":"My Department worked closely with the Irish Football Association and other sporting bodies in the development and creation of Part 4 of the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Part 4 provides a package of powers to regulate conduct at sporting events including offences around throwing articles, offensive chanting, pitch incursion and possession of fireworks.\n\nThe IFA was particularly supportive of the football banning order provisions also created in the Act and undertook to support these with its own Code of Conduct. By way of IFA training programmes my Department was involved in briefing soccer clubs on the legislation. Giving effect to these powers is now an operational matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.\n\nIn addition to this legislative work, through my Department’s Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) network, a number of sports-based diversionary and education initiatives are delivered in conjunction with a number of bodies.\n\nFor example, with District Councils, Churches and voluntary bodies, PCSPs help provide Midnight and Twilight Soccer programmes; cage soccer and sports facilities; and residential courses, many on a cross-community basis to divert young people from anti-social behaviour.\n\nMany of these projects are jointly funded with assistance by the IFA, churches, voluntary bodies and PCSPs.","answerHtml":"My Department worked closely with the Irish Football Association and other sporting bodies in the development and creation of Part 4 of the Justice Act (Northern Ireland) 2011. Part 4 provides a package of powers to regulate conduct at sporting events including offences around throwing articles, offensive chanting, pitch incursion and possession of fireworks.
The IFA was particularly supportive of the football banning order provisions also created in the Act and undertook to support these with its own Code of Conduct. By way of IFA training programmes my Department was involved in briefing soccer clubs on the legislation. Giving effect to these powers is now an operational matter for the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
In addition to this legislative work, through my Department’s Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) network, a number of sports-based diversionary and education initiatives are delivered in conjunction with a number of bodies.
For example, with District Councils, Churches and voluntary bodies, PCSPs help provide Midnight and Twilight Soccer programmes; cage soccer and sports facilities; and residential courses, many on a cross-community basis to divert young people from anti-social behaviour.
Many of these projects are jointly funded with assistance by the IFA, churches, voluntary bodies and PCSPs.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037642%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211007","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211007"}},{"id":"211005","reference":"AQW 37641/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-17","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-12-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of the benefits of a reduced rate of VAT for the hospitality industry, particularly in geographical areas that attract high numbers of tourists.","answerText":"I believe a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality industry would bring a much needed boost not only to the hospitality industry, but also the wider tourism sector as a whole. That is why I brought a Motion to the NI Assembly in September 2012 that called on the Executive to pursue a separate VAT rate for the tourism/hospitality sector in Northern Ireland with HM Treasury. The previous Minister of Finance and Personnel subsequently raised this issue with the former Exchequer Secretary, David Gauke MP. The then Exchequer Secretary responded that any reduction in VAT would need to apply across the United Kingdom as a whole and that, in his view, the cost of lowering the rate of VAT for the hospitality sector would be too high. I have no indication that the Treasury position on this has changed.","answerHtml":"I believe a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality industry would bring a much needed boost not only to the hospitality industry, but also the wider tourism sector as a whole. That is why I brought a Motion to the NI Assembly in September 2012 that called on the Executive to pursue a separate VAT rate for the tourism/hospitality sector in Northern Ireland with HM Treasury. The previous Minister of Finance and Personnel subsequently raised this issue with the former Exchequer Secretary, David Gauke MP. The then Exchequer Secretary responded that any reduction in VAT would need to apply across the United Kingdom as a whole and that, in his view, the cost of lowering the rate of VAT for the hospitality sector would be too high. I have no indication that the Treasury position on this has changed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037641%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211005","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211005"}},{"id":"211004","reference":"AQW 37640/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-17","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel what communication his Department has had with HM Revenue and Customs regarding a reduction in the rate of VAT for the hospitality sector.","answerText":"I believe a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality industry would bring a much needed boost not only to the hospitality industry, but also the wider tourism sector as a whole. That is why I brought a Motion to the NI Assembly in September 2012 that called on the Executive to pursue a separate VAT rate for the tourism/hospitality sector in Northern Ireland with HM Treasury. The previous Minister of Finance and Personnel subsequently raised this issue with the former Exchequer Secretary, David Gauke MP. The then Exchequer Secretary responded that any reduction in VAT would need to apply across the United Kingdom as a whole and that, in his view, the cost of lowering the rate of VAT for the hospitality sector would be too high. I have no indication that the Treasury position on this has changed.","answerHtml":"I believe a reduced VAT rate for the hospitality industry would bring a much needed boost not only to the hospitality industry, but also the wider tourism sector as a whole. That is why I brought a Motion to the NI Assembly in September 2012 that called on the Executive to pursue a separate VAT rate for the tourism/hospitality sector in Northern Ireland with HM Treasury. The previous Minister of Finance and Personnel subsequently raised this issue with the former Exchequer Secretary, David Gauke MP. The then Exchequer Secretary responded that any reduction in VAT would need to apply across the United Kingdom as a whole and that, in his view, the cost of lowering the rate of VAT for the hospitality sector would be too high. I have no indication that the Treasury position on this has changed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037640%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=211004","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=211004"}},{"id":"210828","reference":"AQW 37586/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-10-31","answered":"2014-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to detail the number of fatalities from road traffic collisions in Northern Ireland, compared to the rest of the UK, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Available information is provided in Table 1 and Table 2 below.\n\nTable 1: Number of fatalities from road traffic collisions\n\nYear\tNorthern Ireland\tEngland\tWales\tScotland\tGreat Britain\n2011\t59\t1,594\t121\t186\t1,901\n2012\t48\t1,491\t93\t170\t1,754\n2013\t57\t1,430\t111\t172\t1,713\n\nSource: Police Service of Northern Ireland, Department for Transport\n\nTable 2: Rate of road deaths from road traffic collisions per million population\n\nYear\tNorthern Ireland\tEngland\tWales\tScotland\tGreat Britain\n2011\t32.5\t30.0\t39.5\t35.1\t30.9\n2012\t26.3\t27.9\t30.3\t32.0\t28.3\n2013\t31.2\t26.5\t36.0\t32.3\t27.5\n\nSource: Police Service of Northern Ireland, Department for Transport, Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency and the Office for National Statistics.","answerHtml":"Available information is provided in Table 1 and Table 2 below.
Table 1: Number of fatalities from road traffic collisions
| Year | Northern Ireland | England | Wales | Scotland | Great Britain |
| 2011 | 59 | 1,594 | 121 | 186 | 1,901 |
| 2012 | 48 | 1,491 | 93 | 170 | 1,754 |
| 2013 | 57 | 1,430 | 111 | 172 | 1,713 |
Source: Police Service of Northern Ireland, Department for Transport
Table 2: Rate of road deaths from road traffic collisions per million population
| Year | Northern Ireland | England | Wales | Scotland | Great Britain |
| 2011 | 32.5 | 30.0 | 39.5 | 35.1 | 30.9 |
| 2012 | 26.3 | 27.9 | 30.3 | 32.0 | 28.3 |
| 2013 | 31.2 | 26.5 | 36.0 | 32.3 | 27.5 |
Source: Police Service of Northern Ireland, Department for Transport, Northern Ireland Statistics and Research Agency and the Office for National Statistics.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037586%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210828","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210828"}},{"id":"210825","reference":"AQW 37585/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-10-31","answered":"2014-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for his assessment of the urgent need for progress on the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, in light of the recent road fatalities in Coleraine and Belfast.","answerText":"My Department is taking a broad range of actions to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads. Our work centres around the main factors that cause collisions – excessive and inappropriate speed, drink/drug driving, and driver carelessness. It also focuses on groups which are over-represented in the casualty figures. This commitment is reflected in the Road Safety Strategy to 2020.\n\nThe Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill is critical to delivery of a number of the Strategy’s commitments. The Bill addresses key road safety challenges, as seen in the numbers of casualties which involve drink driving and young and novice drivers. Its final provisions will be subject to Environment Committee scrutiny and Assembly approval. However, the Bill as drafted provides for:\n\nlower drink driving limits and new powers for police to stop and test drivers at the side of the road;\n\na new graduated penalty regime to match the penalty to the amount of drink taken;\n\na new graduated driver licensing regime with fundamental changes in how new drivers are trained, tested and gain experience.\n\nThe Bill is currently at its Committee stage. The Environment Committee is receiving evidence from key stakeholders and over the next few weeks my officials will be briefing the Committee on the detail of the Bill’s provisions.\n\nI am of course anxious to avoid any slippage in the legislative passage of this important Bill. At the same time, however, I am conscious of the need for effective Committee scrutiny and Assembly discussion. Once Committee stage has concluded, I will be seeking to schedule Consideration Stage of the Bill as quickly as possible.","answerHtml":"My Department is taking a broad range of actions to reduce the number of deaths and serious injuries on our roads. Our work centres around the main factors that cause collisions – excessive and inappropriate speed, drink/drug driving, and driver carelessness. It also focuses on groups which are over-represented in the casualty figures. This commitment is reflected in the Road Safety Strategy to 2020.
The Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill is critical to delivery of a number of the Strategy’s commitments. The Bill addresses key road safety challenges, as seen in the numbers of casualties which involve drink driving and young and novice drivers. Its final provisions will be subject to Environment Committee scrutiny and Assembly approval. However, the Bill as drafted provides for:
lower drink driving limits and new powers for police to stop and test drivers at the side of the road;
a new graduated penalty regime to match the penalty to the amount of drink taken;
a new graduated driver licensing regime with fundamental changes in how new drivers are trained, tested and gain experience.
The Bill is currently at its Committee stage. The Environment Committee is receiving evidence from key stakeholders and over the next few weeks my officials will be briefing the Committee on the detail of the Bill’s provisions.
I am of course anxious to avoid any slippage in the legislative passage of this important Bill. At the same time, however, I am conscious of the need for effective Committee scrutiny and Assembly discussion. Once Committee stage has concluded, I will be seeking to schedule Consideration Stage of the Bill as quickly as possible.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037585%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210825","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210825"}},{"id":"210822","reference":"AQW 37584/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-10-21","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, following the recent teenage road fatalities in Coleraine and Belfast, what assurances he can provide that his Department are doing all it can to work with other Departments and outside agencies to reduce the number of road deaths.","answerText":"I am extremely concerned by the number of road deaths this year. My sincere sympathy is with all of the families and communities affected by those tragedies.\n\nAs Minister with lead responsibility for road safety, I remain totally committed to the partnership approach that has so greatly reduced road casualties over the last 40 years. The Road Safety Strategy to 2020 sets out four strategic targets and 224 action measures to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads. We take a shared approach to implementation, working alongside many parts of government, the Police Service and other bodies. Some 118 of the Strategy action measures have already been completed or embedded in ongoing business, and there have been positive reductions against the Strategy’s four targets.\n\nThis progress reflects a great deal of ongoing cooperation between my Department and our road safety partners and stakeholders. I chair a Ministerial Road Safety Group, meeting regularly with the Ministers for Regional Development and Justice and representatives of the emergency services, to explore road safety issues and drive forward improvements. Officials also liaise regularly on both an informal and a more formal basis. This partnership working includes the Road Safety Strategy Delivery Board which reports to me and is responsible for monitoring implementation of the Strategy.\n\nI also convene the Road Safety Forum, where representation is drawn from the relevant government departments, statutory agencies, the emergency services and a range of other road safety stakeholders. All of the Forum members have a clear commitment and resolve to tackle road safety issues; the meetings provide an opportunity to exchange views on the Strategy and the way in which it is being implemented.\n\nI cannot emphasise enough, however, that the vast majority of casualties on our roads are caused by human error. My Department and our road safety partners can educate, engineer and enforce, but ultimately each of us as individuals has to take personal responsibility for our attitudes and behaviours as road users.","answerHtml":"I am extremely concerned by the number of road deaths this year. My sincere sympathy is with all of the families and communities affected by those tragedies.
As Minister with lead responsibility for road safety, I remain totally committed to the partnership approach that has so greatly reduced road casualties over the last 40 years. The Road Safety Strategy to 2020 sets out four strategic targets and 224 action measures to reduce deaths and serious injuries on our roads. We take a shared approach to implementation, working alongside many parts of government, the Police Service and other bodies. Some 118 of the Strategy action measures have already been completed or embedded in ongoing business, and there have been positive reductions against the Strategy’s four targets.
This progress reflects a great deal of ongoing cooperation between my Department and our road safety partners and stakeholders. I chair a Ministerial Road Safety Group, meeting regularly with the Ministers for Regional Development and Justice and representatives of the emergency services, to explore road safety issues and drive forward improvements. Officials also liaise regularly on both an informal and a more formal basis. This partnership working includes the Road Safety Strategy Delivery Board which reports to me and is responsible for monitoring implementation of the Strategy.
I also convene the Road Safety Forum, where representation is drawn from the relevant government departments, statutory agencies, the emergency services and a range of other road safety stakeholders. All of the Forum members have a clear commitment and resolve to tackle road safety issues; the meetings provide an opportunity to exchange views on the Strategy and the way in which it is being implemented.
I cannot emphasise enough, however, that the vast majority of casualties on our roads are caused by human error. My Department and our road safety partners can educate, engineer and enforce, but ultimately each of us as individuals has to take personal responsibility for our attitudes and behaviours as road users.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037584%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210822","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210822"}},{"id":"210817","reference":"AQW 37583/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-10-31","answered":"2014-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what steps his Department is taking to address the risk factors associated with road fatalities amongst young people.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy to 2020 recognises that younger people are disproportionately likely to die on Northern Ireland’s roads. The Strategy contains two targets, two of which focus on reducing significantly the number of children and young people killed or seriously injured in road collisions. I have outlined below some of the actions that my Department is taking to achieve these targets.\n\nYoung drivers – many of them newly qualified – are disproportionately involved in fatal and serious collisions compared to other drivers. This suggests that we need fundamentally to change how new drivers are trained, tested and gain experience. For this reason, the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill contains enabling provisions for a system of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) in Northern Ireland. The premise of GDL is to prepare new drivers for the challenges of driving on their own – and to protect both them and other road users as they gain experience. The provisions aim to strike a balance between achieving road safety outcomes while not being unduly prohibitive. The Bill is currently at Committee Stage and the detailed provisions will be shaped by the Assembly process.\n\nIn addition, much of the focus of our Road Safety Education Officer Service (RSEOS) is on supporting teachers and other professionals to deliver road safety messages to young people, both at primary and increasingly at post primary schools. In primary schools this work includes the Junior Road Safety Officer Scheme, the Cycling Proficiency scheme, the Practical Child Pedestrian Safety Training scheme and Theatre in Education.\n\nFor post primary schools, we have developed a series of road safety lessons, presentations and education packs. These resources allow teachers to provide road safety lessons, involve students in discussions about aspects of road safety and ultimately encourage good road safety behaviours. RSEOS also provides support to schools which participate in the Motor Vehicle & Road Users Studies - a GCSE course which helps students prepare for driver training and the driving test and to become informed and responsible road users.\n\nThese resources are available on C2K, the ICT platform used by grant aided schools. Most of the information is also available on NI Direct, to cater for independent schools that do not have access to C2K and for other citizens.\n\nMy Department’s advertising campaigns also aim to change those attitudes and behaviours which lead to death and serious injury on our roads. The campaigns are data-led, research-led and psychology-led. The messages that they contain are relevant to all road users. However, as young people are significantly over-represented in the casualties, many of the ads highlight young people at risk – whether as drivers, passengers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Road Safety Strategy to 2020 recognises that younger people are disproportionately likely to die on Northern Ireland’s roads. The Strategy contains two targets, two of which focus on reducing significantly the number of children and young people killed or seriously injured in road collisions. I have outlined below some of the actions that my Department is taking to achieve these targets.
Young drivers – many of them newly qualified – are disproportionately involved in fatal and serious collisions compared to other drivers. This suggests that we need fundamentally to change how new drivers are trained, tested and gain experience. For this reason, the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill contains enabling provisions for a system of Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) in Northern Ireland. The premise of GDL is to prepare new drivers for the challenges of driving on their own – and to protect both them and other road users as they gain experience. The provisions aim to strike a balance between achieving road safety outcomes while not being unduly prohibitive. The Bill is currently at Committee Stage and the detailed provisions will be shaped by the Assembly process.
In addition, much of the focus of our Road Safety Education Officer Service (RSEOS) is on supporting teachers and other professionals to deliver road safety messages to young people, both at primary and increasingly at post primary schools. In primary schools this work includes the Junior Road Safety Officer Scheme, the Cycling Proficiency scheme, the Practical Child Pedestrian Safety Training scheme and Theatre in Education.
For post primary schools, we have developed a series of road safety lessons, presentations and education packs. These resources allow teachers to provide road safety lessons, involve students in discussions about aspects of road safety and ultimately encourage good road safety behaviours. RSEOS also provides support to schools which participate in the Motor Vehicle & Road Users Studies - a GCSE course which helps students prepare for driver training and the driving test and to become informed and responsible road users.
These resources are available on C2K, the ICT platform used by grant aided schools. Most of the information is also available on NI Direct, to cater for independent schools that do not have access to C2K and for other citizens.
My Department’s advertising campaigns also aim to change those attitudes and behaviours which lead to death and serious injury on our roads. The campaigns are data-led, research-led and psychology-led. The messages that they contain are relevant to all road users. However, as young people are significantly over-represented in the casualties, many of the ads highlight young people at risk – whether as drivers, passengers, pedestrians, motorcyclists and cyclists.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037583%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210817","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210817"}},{"id":"210815","reference":"AQW 37582/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-10-31","answered":"2014-10-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for his assessment of the effectiveness of televised road safety campaigns in increasing awareness.","answerText":"DOE’s road safety campaigns play a significant part in our aspiration of working towards zero road deaths in Northern Ireland; we have extensive evidence that the Northern Ireland public are aware of and are influenced by these campaigns.\n\nOur campaigns consistently achieve awareness levels of over 90%. The average awareness level for TV advertising is 50%. The campaigns also achieve levels of influence ranging between 72% and 93%, indicating that road safety advertising has been very influential in improving road user attitudes and in producing positive change in behaviours. The industry norm for achieving levels of ‘fairly influenced’ is 30%.\n\nIt is difficult to measure the sole or unique contribution that any specific road safety intervention, including advertising, makes towards reducing casualties. However, work by Oxford Economics isolated the importance of the role of DOE advertising and calculated that from 1995 to 2011, some 21,977 men, women and children in Northern Ireland were saved from death and serious injury on our roads. This prevention of death and serious injury means that the economic payback was £10 per £1 invested by DOE, excluding human costs; and £42 per £1 invested including human costs.\n\nI recognise that some of our campaigns can make uncomfortable viewing, but research and tracking evidence has consistently confirmed that they are effective, and that our ‘tell it as it is’ approach is a key reason for that.","answerHtml":"DOE’s road safety campaigns play a significant part in our aspiration of working towards zero road deaths in Northern Ireland; we have extensive evidence that the Northern Ireland public are aware of and are influenced by these campaigns.
Our campaigns consistently achieve awareness levels of over 90%. The average awareness level for TV advertising is 50%. The campaigns also achieve levels of influence ranging between 72% and 93%, indicating that road safety advertising has been very influential in improving road user attitudes and in producing positive change in behaviours. The industry norm for achieving levels of ‘fairly influenced’ is 30%.
It is difficult to measure the sole or unique contribution that any specific road safety intervention, including advertising, makes towards reducing casualties. However, work by Oxford Economics isolated the importance of the role of DOE advertising and calculated that from 1995 to 2011, some 21,977 men, women and children in Northern Ireland were saved from death and serious injury on our roads. This prevention of death and serious injury means that the economic payback was £10 per £1 invested by DOE, excluding human costs; and £42 per £1 invested including human costs.
I recognise that some of our campaigns can make uncomfortable viewing, but research and tracking evidence has consistently confirmed that they are effective, and that our ‘tell it as it is’ approach is a key reason for that.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037582%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210815","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210815"}},{"id":"210776","reference":"AQO 6931/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":null,"answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what support and funding opportunites her Department can offer to existing grassroots level sports initiatives wishing to expand.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%206931%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210776","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210776"}},{"id":"212526","reference":"AQO 6931/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what support and funding opportunites her Department can offer to existing grassroots level sports initiatives wishing to expand.","answerText":"The need to develop and prioritise sport at grassroots level is recognised within my Department’s Strategy for Sport, Sport Matters. Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, works with a range of organisations that seek to provide and develop grassroots sports opportunities in sports clubs, schools and community/ voluntary organisations.\n\nSport NI provides a range of support services and resources to assist those groups wishing to expand, which includes the provision of funding through the Active Awards for Sport programme. This small grants programme is primarily aimed at providing grassroots support to community based sport and is due to re-open for applications at the end of March next year. The priorities are sports clubs, community groups and governing bodies of sport, especially those based in areas of greatest need.\n\nSport NI also assists in the development of grassroots sports clubs through the provision of coach development workshops; the implementation of the quality standard for clubs, Clubmark NI, the introduction of a new Equality Standard, and a Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport.\n\nIn addition, my Department has provided funding of four point five million which has been distributed equally between the Ulster Council GAA, the Ulster Branch Irish Rugby Football Union and the Irish Football Association over a three year period up until 31st March 2015. This funding was for a programme to promote equality, tackle poverty and social exclusion through sport. Grassroots level sports clubs and communities will benefit from part of this funding.\n\nI have asked my officials and Sport NI to explore what other funding opportunities may be available for grassroots sports in the future.","answerHtml":"The need to develop and prioritise sport at grassroots level is recognised within my Department’s Strategy for Sport, Sport Matters. Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, works with a range of organisations that seek to provide and develop grassroots sports opportunities in sports clubs, schools and community/ voluntary organisations.
Sport NI provides a range of support services and resources to assist those groups wishing to expand, which includes the provision of funding through the Active Awards for Sport programme. This small grants programme is primarily aimed at providing grassroots support to community based sport and is due to re-open for applications at the end of March next year. The priorities are sports clubs, community groups and governing bodies of sport, especially those based in areas of greatest need.
Sport NI also assists in the development of grassroots sports clubs through the provision of coach development workshops; the implementation of the quality standard for clubs, Clubmark NI, the introduction of a new Equality Standard, and a Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Sport.
In addition, my Department has provided funding of four point five million which has been distributed equally between the Ulster Council GAA, the Ulster Branch Irish Rugby Football Union and the Irish Football Association over a three year period up until 31st March 2015. This funding was for a programme to promote equality, tackle poverty and social exclusion through sport. Grassroots level sports clubs and communities will benefit from part of this funding.
I have asked my officials and Sport NI to explore what other funding opportunities may be available for grassroots sports in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%206931%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=212526","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=212526"}},{"id":"210772","reference":"AQO 6917/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-16","answerBy":"2014-11-03","answered":"2014-11-03","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline how the establishment of her departmental headquarters in Ballykelly will stimulate both rural development and the local economy in East Londonderry.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":[{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"With your permission, a LeasCheann Comhairle, I will answer questions 5 and 9 together. On 26 June, the First Minister and the deputy First Minister conveyed agreement to the relocation of my departmental headquarters to Ballykelly. The project is now proceeding and involves a new build to accommodate 400 workstations to be completed by the end of 2017 and an extension to accommodate a further 200 workstations to be completed by the end of 2020. My officials continue to liaise with OFMDFM, DFP and other Departments and agencies about the design, planning, construction and access arrangements. The current programme plan indicates that the tender for the construction phase will be awarded at the end of 2015. The relocation of my Department to Ballykelly will stimulate rural development and the local economy through increased local spending, provision of high-quality and high-value public sector jobs and, potentially, jobs associated with the construction and ongoing servicing of the new accommodation. That will be a welcome boost to the construction industry. It will help to share wealth across the economy, contribute to better-balanced economic growth and help to address disparities in the distribution of public sector jobs across the North."},{"speaker":"Mr Beggs","text":"The Minister, along with the First Minister and the deputy First Minister, appears indifferent to the possible poor use of our limited public funds. Why has a full cost-benefit analysis not been published to ensure good practice? Will she ensure that money is spent in the most efficient way and we minimise the money that has to be spent on buildings and future travel costs? Does she accept that, in getting there, there should be agreement with the Department of Finance and Personnel? Indeed, has her accounting officer agreed with this proposal?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I will work in reverse. My accounting officer is working to my direction. The Executive have agreed to the movement of DARD to Ballykelly, and I am committed to taking that project forward. We have a programme board in place; it is full speed ahead, and work is ongoing. We are working closely with staff on staff planning and moving forward. We have a business case, which has cleared all DARD's internal assurance processes. Executive approval was given on 26 June. I can say no more; it is as clear as that."},{"speaker":"Ms Sugden","text":"Would the Minister consider working with local businesses and community and voluntary groups such as the Shackleton Aviation and Space Museum on the Ballykelly site to maximise use and encourage local people and the local economy?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I absolutely agree. DFP and the Executive, as the owners of the site, are keen to explore that. Once we had made the decision, it was evident that there were a lot more people with an interest in the site. There are massive potential benefits for the north-west, not just because of the public sector jobs that are coming but because of everything else that will flow from it. I am absolutely happy, in planning and moving forward, to work with the local community because the benefits for that community are clear to be seen, particularly around construction and the increased footfall for the area. I am happy for that to be the case."},{"speaker":"Mr G Robinson","text":"Does the Minister agree that the potential jobs boost and economic stimulus through the use of the entire site at Ballykelly, including her Department's headquarters, which my colleague Gregory Campbell and I strongly lobbied for, will be a vital aspect of the economic recovery of the north-west of Northern Ireland and even further afield?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"I absolutely agree that there will be a knock-on impact. The core of this is that we will have a fair distribution of public sector jobs. Those jobs will be a boost to the north-west, to the local construction industry and to Ballykelly itself, where there will be an increased footfall. The potential on that site is fantastic, and it will be a really good news story that will trickle down over the years to come. When DARD moves, the other things will follow. It is absolutely a good news story for the north-west."},{"speaker":"Mr Dallat","text":"I thank the Minister for her response. Given that this is a major element in the redevelopment of the Shackleton site, has she had any discussions with the Minister for Regional Development about establishing a railway point, which would clearly be of enormous benefit to so many people?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"Yes, I have met the Regional Development Minister, and we have had discussions. It is a great idea. It is not without its problems or challenges, but that is being explored by the Regional Development Minister and his officials, so we look forward to maybe some positive outcomes from that. It was very evident from the first discussions that we had that there were a number of challenges with timings in the north-west, but it is still under consideration, and maybe we will have something positive from that."},{"speaker":"Mr McMullan","text":"Go raibh maith agat, a Phríomh-LeasCheann Comhairle. Minister, I am sure you will agree that the benefits of relocation far outstrip the negativity of some of the arguments put against the planned relocation of the headquarters."},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"Yes. As I said, the economic benefits are clear to be seen: the jobs stimulus; the ongoing servicing of the building; the construction of the building; the knock-on impact for the local economy; and the follow-through with other businesses coming to that site. It is all going to be of tremendous benefit to the north-west. For me, this is about a fairer distribution of public sector jobs, and it is about stimulating that local economy. It is also about bringing DARD closer to its rural roots. For me, the opportunity that we have to be the first Department to move lock, stock and barrel into the north-west is to be welcomed. Maybe it is something that other Ministers will consider in any moves in the future, making sure that they create employment in rural areas and opportunities for those in the public service."},{"speaker":"Mr Lyttle","text":"Given the costs involved and the level of objection from Belfast staff to this significant relocation, is this really a proposal with which the Minister should persist? Can she give us reassurances that it is not going to cause utter chaos in the delivery of the functions of her Department?"},{"speaker":"Mrs O'Neill","text":"On the views of staff, I outlined this before: it was taken forward in a number of phases. The headquarters staff in Dundonald House, given that it has been there for 50 years, is predominantly made up of people who live in the greater Belfast area and it is only natural that, when it comes to change, those people may not want to move. That is why we had a long lead-in time and are phasing it in to allow for those staff changes to happen. That is being done in full consultation with the unions and staff side representatives. That is the only way we are going to be successful. This is a wider project even than DARD in staff and public sector movement. This is about new ways of working and working right across all Departments. After the initial survey with just DARD staff, we went out to the wider departmental staff and to the wider Civil Service, and there are more than enough people who want to pursue opportunities closer to home to give them a better work/life balance. It is only right that they should also have the opportunity to achieve promotion, and not have to come to the greater Belfast area to be able to get that. So, I am confident that we are able to manage the staff issues, in full consultation with them and their union representatives, in moving forward. The phased process that we have stepped out fairly clearly allows us to do that."}],"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%206917%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210772","officialReport":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/officialreport/report.aspx?&eveDate=2014-11-03&docID=211611#AQO%206917/11-15","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210772"}},{"id":"210571","reference":"AQW 37509/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-15","answerBy":"2014-10-30","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how the amalgamation of Education and Library Boards will impact on support for Outdoor Education Centres which provide practical life skills training for young people in throughout Northern Ireland, and particularly Woodhall Outdoor Education Centre in Kilrea.","answerText":"The Department of Education does not directly fund Outdoor Education Centres. These are currently funded by the Youth Service within each Education and Library Board area in accordance with their statutory obligations. This function will transfer to the single Education Authority, when established. It will be a matter for the Education Authority to decide how outdoor education provision is managed in line with the Department’s priorities, as set out in Priorities for Youth.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education does not directly fund Outdoor Education Centres. These are currently funded by the Youth Service within each Education and Library Board area in accordance with their statutory obligations. This function will transfer to the single Education Authority, when established. It will be a matter for the Education Authority to decide how outdoor education provision is managed in line with the Department’s priorities, as set out in Priorities for Youth.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037509%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210571","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210571"}},{"id":"210569","reference":"AQW 37508/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-15","answerBy":"2014-10-30","answered":"2014-11-05","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education, following the amalgamation of Education and Library Boards, how his Department will work alongside the North Eastern Education and Library Board Youth Service to ensure they can continue to support local communities and the specific educational needs of young people.","answerText":"The single Education Authority, when established, will have a statutory duty to deliver and support youth work. Services will be delivered in line with the Department’s priorities as set out in Priorities for Youth. The Regional Youth Development Framework will provide a clear framework for the delivery of youth services in response to assessed need. It will be a matter for the Education Authority to decide how services can be delivered most effectively within that context.","answerHtml":"The single Education Authority, when established, will have a statutory duty to deliver and support youth work. Services will be delivered in line with the Department’s priorities as set out in Priorities for Youth. The Regional Youth Development Framework will provide a clear framework for the delivery of youth services in response to assessed need. It will be a matter for the Education Authority to decide how services can be delivered most effectively within that context.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037508%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210569","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210569"}},{"id":"210567","reference":"AQW 37507/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-15","answerBy":"2014-10-30","answered":"2014-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what steps his Department is taking to address dilapidated buildings in East Londonderry, which attract anti-social behaviour, in order to maintain the area as an attractive tourist destination.","answerText":"A discussion document on legislation regarding dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites was issued to key stakeholders on 31 March 2014 with a request for responses by 30 June. By the closing date 20 substantive responses had been received, primarily from the local government sector, highlighting a range of complex policy and legal issues. A synopsis of these responses has been prepared and is available to view on the DOE website. Officials are currently in the process of engaging with stakeholders to discuss these issues with a view to issuing a formal public consultation on policy proposals by 31 March 2015. The link between dilapidation and anti-social behaviour is one of the important issues under consideration and I am committed to ensuring that District Councils have access to effective and fit for purpose legislation to address this and other significant issues throughout Northern Ireland. Another DOE initiative, the Dereliction Intervention Funding programme, has been accessed to great effect by a number of councils, including those within the East Londonderry constituency, and it is hoped that further funds for this scheme will be made available in the future.","answerHtml":"A discussion document on legislation regarding dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites was issued to key stakeholders on 31 March 2014 with a request for responses by 30 June. By the closing date 20 substantive responses had been received, primarily from the local government sector, highlighting a range of complex policy and legal issues. A synopsis of these responses has been prepared and is available to view on the DOE website. Officials are currently in the process of engaging with stakeholders to discuss these issues with a view to issuing a formal public consultation on policy proposals by 31 March 2015. The link between dilapidation and anti-social behaviour is one of the important issues under consideration and I am committed to ensuring that District Councils have access to effective and fit for purpose legislation to address this and other significant issues throughout Northern Ireland. Another DOE initiative, the Dereliction Intervention Funding programme, has been accessed to great effect by a number of councils, including those within the East Londonderry constituency, and it is hoped that further funds for this scheme will be made available in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037507%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210567","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210567"}},{"id":"210566","reference":"AQW 37506/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-15","answerBy":"2014-10-30","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the number of peripatetic teachers currently employed by the North Eastern Education and Library Board; and whether this will be impacted by the amalgamation of Education and Library Boards.","answerText":"The number of peripatetic teachers currently employed by the North Eastern Education and Library Board is 87.\n\nThis will not be impacted by the amalgamation of the Education and Library Boards as TUPE and pension protection are included in the draft Education Bill.","answerHtml":"The number of peripatetic teachers currently employed by the North Eastern Education and Library Board is 87.
This will not be impacted by the amalgamation of the Education and Library Boards as TUPE and pension protection are included in the draft Education Bill.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037506%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210566","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210566"}},{"id":"210565","reference":"AQW 37505/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-15","answerBy":"2014-10-30","answered":"2014-10-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for an update on plans to review legislation regarding dilapidated buildings and neglected sites, in order to provide the new councils with an effective legislative framework for addressing and reducing the negative impacts caused by the sites.","answerText":"A discussion document on legislation regarding dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites was issued to key stakeholders on 31 March 2014 with a request for responses by 30 June. By the closing date 20 substantive responses had been received, primarily from the local government sector, highlighting a range of complex policy and legal issues. A synopsis of these responses has been prepared and is available to view on the DOE website. Officials are currently in the process of engaging with stakeholders to discuss these issues with a view to issuing a formal public consultation on policy proposals by 31 March 2015. The link between dilapidation and anti-social behaviour is one of the important issues under consideration and I am committed to ensuring that District Councils have access to effective and fit for purpose legislation to address this and other significant issues throughout Northern Ireland. Another DOE initiative, the Dereliction Intervention Funding programme, has been accessed to great effect by a number of councils, including those within the East Londonderry constituency, and it is hoped that further funds for this scheme will be made available in the future.","answerHtml":"A discussion document on legislation regarding dilapidated/dangerous buildings and neglected sites was issued to key stakeholders on 31 March 2014 with a request for responses by 30 June. By the closing date 20 substantive responses had been received, primarily from the local government sector, highlighting a range of complex policy and legal issues. A synopsis of these responses has been prepared and is available to view on the DOE website. Officials are currently in the process of engaging with stakeholders to discuss these issues with a view to issuing a formal public consultation on policy proposals by 31 March 2015. The link between dilapidation and anti-social behaviour is one of the important issues under consideration and I am committed to ensuring that District Councils have access to effective and fit for purpose legislation to address this and other significant issues throughout Northern Ireland. Another DOE initiative, the Dereliction Intervention Funding programme, has been accessed to great effect by a number of councils, including those within the East Londonderry constituency, and it is hoped that further funds for this scheme will be made available in the future.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037505%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210565","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210565"}},{"id":"210360","reference":"AQW 37467/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-14","answerBy":"2014-10-29","answered":"2014-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the number of people completing Post Graduate Diplomas in Education in the last three years, compared with the number of newly created jobs in this field.","answerText":"In Northern Ireland, the post-graduate qualification for Initial Teacher Education (ITE) is the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) rather than a diploma. At undergraduate level a Bachelor of Education (BEd) is the relevant qualification.\n\nFor the 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 academic years, the number of graduates achieving a PGCE is detailed below:\n\nQueen's\tUlster\tStranmillis\tSt Mary's\tOpen University\tTotal\n2010/11\t165\t140\t15\t20\t15\t355\n2011/12\t165\t140\t15\t20\t10\t355\n2012/13\t130\t110\t15\t20\t20\t300\n\nFigures in this table have been rounded to the nearest 5.\n\nMy Department’s responsibility for teacher education relates to resourcing the ITE providers to deliver both the PGCE and BEd programmes. Responsibility for determining the number of teachers required falls to the Minister of Education. My Department does not therefore hold information on the number of newly\n\ncreated jobs in this field","answerHtml":"In Northern Ireland, the post-graduate qualification for Initial Teacher Education (ITE) is the Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) rather than a diploma. At undergraduate level a Bachelor of Education (BEd) is the relevant qualification.
For the 2010/11, 2011/12 and 2012/13 academic years, the number of graduates achieving a PGCE is detailed below:
| Queen's | Ulster | Stranmillis | St Mary's | Open University | Total | |
| 2010/11 | 165 | 140 | 15 | 20 | 15 | 355 |
| 2011/12 | 165 | 140 | 15 | 20 | 10 | 355 |
| 2012/13 | 130 | 110 | 15 | 20 | 20 | 300 |
Figures in this table have been rounded to the nearest 5.
My Department’s responsibility for teacher education relates to resourcing the ITE providers to deliver both the PGCE and BEd programmes. Responsibility for determining the number of teachers required falls to the Minister of Education. My Department does not therefore hold information on the number of newly
created jobs in this field
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037467%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210360","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210360"}},{"id":"210359","reference":"AQW 37466/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-14","answerBy":"2014-10-29","answered":"2014-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice how his Department is tackling crimes against older people.","answerText":"The Programme for Government and the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017 set out actions being taken by my Department to tackle crime and fear of crime amongst older people.\n\nIn terms of the Community Safety Strategy, there is a Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan 2012-14 which sets out what my Department and our delivery partners are doing to tackle these crimes. This includes funding projects delivered by Age Sector Platform and Linking Generations Northern Ireland to, for example, raise awareness of existing crime prevention support and promote the benefits of intergenerational work.\n\nPolicing and Community Safety Partnerships also deliver a range of initiatives aimed at tackling crime against older people. These include home security and other crime prevention projects.\n\nWhile sentencing is a matter for the judiciary, a deterrent to crime against an older person is that courts can treat the age and vulnerability of the victim as aggravating factors when assessing the appropriate sentence to be imposed.","answerHtml":"The Programme for Government and the Community Safety Strategy 2012-2017 set out actions being taken by my Department to tackle crime and fear of crime amongst older people.
In terms of the Community Safety Strategy, there is a Fear of Crime Strategic Action Plan 2012-14 which sets out what my Department and our delivery partners are doing to tackle these crimes. This includes funding projects delivered by Age Sector Platform and Linking Generations Northern Ireland to, for example, raise awareness of existing crime prevention support and promote the benefits of intergenerational work.
Policing and Community Safety Partnerships also deliver a range of initiatives aimed at tackling crime against older people. These include home security and other crime prevention projects.
While sentencing is a matter for the judiciary, a deterrent to crime against an older person is that courts can treat the age and vulnerability of the victim as aggravating factors when assessing the appropriate sentence to be imposed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037466%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210359","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210359"}},{"id":"210357","reference":"AQW 37465/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-14","answerBy":"2014-10-29","answered":"2014-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how spending cuts will affect provisions for university students with special education requirements.","answerText":"I can advise that the current Disabled Students’ Allowances for higher education students with special educational requirements will remain in place and I have no plans to change the funding available in light of the spending cuts.\n\nThe following is available in academic year 2015/16: A specialist equipment allowance of up to £5,266 for the whole course; a non-medical helper’s allowance of up to £20,938 per year; a general allowance of up to £1,759 per year to help towards other disability related spending such a printer cartridges and Braille paper; and, any extra travel costs the student may have to pay to attend University or College because of their disability.\n\nIn their Widening Access and Participation Plans, all of the Higher Education Institutions have identified students with learning difficulties / disabilities as a target group for interventions aimed at raising aspiration and educational attainment and have set out their participation targets for these students for each academic year in the period 2015/16 – 2016/17. The institutions also detailed the additional measures they plan to introduce to support their retention and completion rates. The above support measures will be funded out of the tuition fee income raised by each institution and since there will be no reduction in tuition fee levels the Department would not anticipate any reduction in the support provided by institutions to students from disadvantaged backgrounds including students with special education requirements.","answerHtml":"I can advise that the current Disabled Students’ Allowances for higher education students with special educational requirements will remain in place and I have no plans to change the funding available in light of the spending cuts.
The following is available in academic year 2015/16: A specialist equipment allowance of up to £5,266 for the whole course; a non-medical helper’s allowance of up to £20,938 per year; a general allowance of up to £1,759 per year to help towards other disability related spending such a printer cartridges and Braille paper; and, any extra travel costs the student may have to pay to attend University or College because of their disability.
In their Widening Access and Participation Plans, all of the Higher Education Institutions have identified students with learning difficulties / disabilities as a target group for interventions aimed at raising aspiration and educational attainment and have set out their participation targets for these students for each academic year in the period 2015/16 – 2016/17. The institutions also detailed the additional measures they plan to introduce to support their retention and completion rates. The above support measures will be funded out of the tuition fee income raised by each institution and since there will be no reduction in tuition fee levels the Department would not anticipate any reduction in the support provided by institutions to students from disadvantaged backgrounds including students with special education requirements.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037465%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210357"}},{"id":"210352","reference":"AQW 37462/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-14","answerBy":"2014-10-29","answered":"2014-10-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, given that there are over 7,000 people living with undiagnosed dementia, what steps his Department is taking to increase awareness of the need for early diagnosis.","answerText":"The regional strategy “Improving Dementia Services in Northern Ireland” launched in November 2011 recognised the importance of early diagnosis. Recurrent investment over the past two years has led to the enhancement of memory services, and their development where none existed previously.\n\nCriteria and protocols have been developed for referrals into memory services and work is ongoing to achieve timely assessment and diagnosis. Work is also in progress with GPs to enhance referrals to memory clinics.\n\nAll five Trusts are committed to providing timely diagnosis, and services are being developed to include pre and post diagnostic counselling, comprehensive assessment, support and education, which in turn will lead to improved diagnosis rates and uptake of early intervention supports.\n\nOver the next 3 years, in addition to those plans already in place, the Dementia Strategy Implementation Group will focus on the key target areas of (i) awareness raising, information and support, (ii) training and (iii) short-breaks, respite and support to carers.","answerHtml":"The regional strategy “Improving Dementia Services in Northern Ireland” launched in November 2011 recognised the importance of early diagnosis. Recurrent investment over the past two years has led to the enhancement of memory services, and their development where none existed previously.
Criteria and protocols have been developed for referrals into memory services and work is ongoing to achieve timely assessment and diagnosis. Work is also in progress with GPs to enhance referrals to memory clinics.
All five Trusts are committed to providing timely diagnosis, and services are being developed to include pre and post diagnostic counselling, comprehensive assessment, support and education, which in turn will lead to improved diagnosis rates and uptake of early intervention supports.
Over the next 3 years, in addition to those plans already in place, the Dementia Strategy Implementation Group will focus on the key target areas of (i) awareness raising, information and support, (ii) training and (iii) short-breaks, respite and support to carers.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037462%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210352","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210352"}},{"id":"210351","reference":"AQW 37461/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-14","answerBy":"2014-10-29","answered":"2014-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development how his Department has increased provision for Community, Economic, Social and Physical renewal through the Neighbourhood Renewal Programme in Limavady in the last three years.","answerText":"My Department has increased provision in Community, Social and Physical renewal through funding the following new projects in the last three years:\n\nD.R.I.V.E. (Developing Relationships in Vulnerable Environments) Project. This project focuses on Community and Social Renewal and is a structured programme of diversionary activities for 5-13 year olds living in the Limavady Neighbourhood Renewal Area;\n\nPhysical Renewal at Benevenagh Drive, Dunmore Place and Grange Park, Limavady; and\n\nPhysical Renewal of Scroggy Road Playing Fields, Limavady.\n\nOverall, my Department has provided financial assistance of £1.2 million in the period 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2015 for the Limavady Neighbourhood Renewal Area.","answerHtml":"My Department has increased provision in Community, Social and Physical renewal through funding the following new projects in the last three years:
D.R.I.V.E. (Developing Relationships in Vulnerable Environments) Project. This project focuses on Community and Social Renewal and is a structured programme of diversionary activities for 5-13 year olds living in the Limavady Neighbourhood Renewal Area;
Physical Renewal at Benevenagh Drive, Dunmore Place and Grange Park, Limavady; and
Physical Renewal of Scroggy Road Playing Fields, Limavady.
Overall, my Department has provided financial assistance of £1.2 million in the period 1 April 2012 to 31 March 2015 for the Limavady Neighbourhood Renewal Area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037461%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210351"}},{"id":"210093","reference":"AQW 37392/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-13","answerBy":"2014-10-28","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps his Department has taken to promote areas outside of Greater Belfast as locations for US companies who are seeking to invest in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"Working with Invest NI, the Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies to Northern Ireland by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland.\n\nWorking in partnership with Invest NI ensures the best possible proposition to potential investors. The programme not only delivers a boost to employment but also our local skill base. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion.\n\nMy department has no input as to where a foreign direct investment company, who is thinking of investing in Northern Ireland, should locate its office. This is a decision entirely for the company with support from Invest NI.","answerHtml":"Working with Invest NI, the Assured Skills programme is designed to help attract new foreign direct investment companies to Northern Ireland by assuring them that the skills they need to be successful are available in Northern Ireland.
Working in partnership with Invest NI ensures the best possible proposition to potential investors. The programme not only delivers a boost to employment but also our local skill base. Assured Skills support is also available to encourage existing companies who are considering expansion.
My department has no input as to where a foreign direct investment company, who is thinking of investing in Northern Ireland, should locate its office. This is a decision entirely for the company with support from Invest NI.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037392%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210093","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210093"}},{"id":"210072","reference":"AQW 37373/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-13","answerBy":"2014-10-28","answered":"2014-11-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel when he expects the results of the public consultation on a subsidy scheme for rate payers under the new local government structure to be published; and what plans are in place to increase public awareness of relevant changes for rate payers.","answerText":"The report on the consultation exercise was published on the DFP website and issued to the Finance Committee earlier this month. I will be publishing the final details of the scheme shortly.\n\nMy Department only recently completed its financial modelling. This had to await receipt of information from LPS about the latest revaluation position, as this affects the costing of the scheme. I have received the required advice within the last few days and am currently considering the matter.\n\nOn the issue of publicising the scheme, LPS has a communications strategy and plan in place, which will include meeting with key groups and raising awareness of the scheme in the run up to bills issuing next year.","answerHtml":"The report on the consultation exercise was published on the DFP website and issued to the Finance Committee earlier this month. I will be publishing the final details of the scheme shortly.
My Department only recently completed its financial modelling. This had to await receipt of information from LPS about the latest revaluation position, as this affects the costing of the scheme. I have received the required advice within the last few days and am currently considering the matter.
On the issue of publicising the scheme, LPS has a communications strategy and plan in place, which will include meeting with key groups and raising awareness of the scheme in the run up to bills issuing next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037373%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210072","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210072"}},{"id":"210071","reference":"AQW 37372/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-13","answerBy":"2014-10-28","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he intends to provide a replacement MS Consultant, who will be based at the Causeway Hospital, to ensure that adequate services are restored for MS patients in this area.","answerText":"The HSC Board and PHA are due to commence a short review of MS services in December 2014 with a view to establishing agreed patient pathways. The findings of the review, which is part of a wider neurology service initiative across Northern Ireland, should establish agreed patient pathways and help develop service specification and agreed service profile for MS. The Board expects that the development of draft patient pathways anticipated from this work will be available by summer 2015.\n\nUntil recently, the gap left by the retirement of the full-time MS Consultant at Causeway Hospital in March 2012 was bridged by providing services on a part-time basis by this consultant.\n\nA final decision on service requirements will be made when the draft patient pathway has been developed and agreed. In the interim a Consultant Neurologist based at BHSCT now provides clinics at Causeway Hospital as a visiting consultant. In addition, the MS Nursing Team in BHSCT continues to provide a range of MS Nursing Services that are not provided locally in other Trusts in Northern Ireland and a community-based MS Nurse is in place to receive telephone calls from patients and their families and visit them in their own homes if required and liaise with the multidisciplinary team.","answerHtml":"The HSC Board and PHA are due to commence a short review of MS services in December 2014 with a view to establishing agreed patient pathways. The findings of the review, which is part of a wider neurology service initiative across Northern Ireland, should establish agreed patient pathways and help develop service specification and agreed service profile for MS. The Board expects that the development of draft patient pathways anticipated from this work will be available by summer 2015.
Until recently, the gap left by the retirement of the full-time MS Consultant at Causeway Hospital in March 2012 was bridged by providing services on a part-time basis by this consultant.
A final decision on service requirements will be made when the draft patient pathway has been developed and agreed. In the interim a Consultant Neurologist based at BHSCT now provides clinics at Causeway Hospital as a visiting consultant. In addition, the MS Nursing Team in BHSCT continues to provide a range of MS Nursing Services that are not provided locally in other Trusts in Northern Ireland and a community-based MS Nurse is in place to receive telephone calls from patients and their families and visit them in their own homes if required and liaise with the multidisciplinary team.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037372%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210071","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210071"}},{"id":"210070","reference":"AQW 37371/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-13","answerBy":"2014-10-28","answered":"2014-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development, of the number of public responses expressing views on three research reports commissioned by his Department into the allocation of social housing, how many of these were from individuals who are currently living in social housing.","answerText":"Respondents to the reports were not asked about their current living arrangements, so this information is not available.","answerHtml":"Respondents to the reports were not asked about their current living arrangements, so this information is not available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037371%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210070","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210070"}},{"id":"210069","reference":"AQW 37370/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-13","answerBy":"2014-10-28","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety when he expects the findings of a review of MS services to be published; and whether he intends to place a MS specialist in the Causeway Hospital in the interim period.","answerText":"The HSC Board and PHA are due to commence a short review of MS services in December 2014 with a view to establishing agreed patient pathways. The findings of the review, which is part of a wider neurology service initiative across Northern Ireland, should establish agreed patient pathways and help develop service specification and agreed service profile for MS. The Board expects that the development of draft patient pathways anticipated from this work will be available by summer 2015.\n\nUntil recently, the gap left by the retirement of the full-time MS Consultant at Causeway Hospital in March 2012 was bridged by providing services on a part-time basis by this consultant.\n\nA final decision on service requirements will be made when the draft patient pathway has been developed and agreed. In the interim a Consultant Neurologist based at BHSCT now provides clinics at Causeway Hospital as a visiting consultant. In addition, the MS Nursing Team in BHSCT continues to provide a range of MS Nursing Services that are not provided locally in other Trusts in Northern Ireland and a community-based MS Nurse is in place to receive telephone calls from patients and their families and visit them in their own homes if required and liaise with the multidisciplinary team.","answerHtml":"The HSC Board and PHA are due to commence a short review of MS services in December 2014 with a view to establishing agreed patient pathways. The findings of the review, which is part of a wider neurology service initiative across Northern Ireland, should establish agreed patient pathways and help develop service specification and agreed service profile for MS. The Board expects that the development of draft patient pathways anticipated from this work will be available by summer 2015.
Until recently, the gap left by the retirement of the full-time MS Consultant at Causeway Hospital in March 2012 was bridged by providing services on a part-time basis by this consultant.
A final decision on service requirements will be made when the draft patient pathway has been developed and agreed. In the interim a Consultant Neurologist based at BHSCT now provides clinics at Causeway Hospital as a visiting consultant. In addition, the MS Nursing Team in BHSCT continues to provide a range of MS Nursing Services that are not provided locally in other Trusts in Northern Ireland and a community-based MS Nurse is in place to receive telephone calls from patients and their families and visit them in their own homes if required and liaise with the multidisciplinary team.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037370%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210069","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210069"}},{"id":"210056","reference":"AQW 37361/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-10","answerBy":"2014-10-27","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for his assessment of the increased rate payments which are likely to affect businesses and householders in Coleraine, as a result of local government restructuring from April 2015.","answerText":"In terms of the effects of local government restructuring, given that Coleraine will be joining with Ballymoney, Limavady and Moyle Councils, all which have a higher district rate, it is likely that the convergence effects will increase rate bills. However, any such increase which occurs as a result of convergence will be phased in incrementally due to the support package agreed by the Executive which has a cost of up to £30m.\n\nYou should note however that a number of other factors may lead to changes to individual rate bills that will issue in April 2015 to individual householders and businesses. These include the level of district rates set by the councils next February, which will reflect their forthcoming spending plans, the changes occurring as a result of the non-domestic revaluation exercise and the future of the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme.","answerHtml":"In terms of the effects of local government restructuring, given that Coleraine will be joining with Ballymoney, Limavady and Moyle Councils, all which have a higher district rate, it is likely that the convergence effects will increase rate bills. However, any such increase which occurs as a result of convergence will be phased in incrementally due to the support package agreed by the Executive which has a cost of up to £30m.
You should note however that a number of other factors may lead to changes to individual rate bills that will issue in April 2015 to individual householders and businesses. These include the level of district rates set by the councils next February, which will reflect their forthcoming spending plans, the changes occurring as a result of the non-domestic revaluation exercise and the future of the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037361%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210056","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210056"}},{"id":"210055","reference":"AQW 37360/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-10","answerBy":"2014-10-27","answered":"2014-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what support is available to pupils in primary and post-primary schools whose learning ability is affected by dyslexia.","answerText":"The Education and Library Boards (ELBs) have advised that a range of special education support and provision is available to parents and schools for a child identified with dyslexia, including the following:\n\ndyslexia awareness training for schools (and parents) as requested by schools to enhance the capacity of teachers to identify and respond appropriately in addressing dyslexia;\n\nall Educational Psychologists (EPs) are trained and skilled in the assessment and identification of dyslexia. Following the identification of dyslexia EPs provide a comprehensive range of support including recommendations and resources to parents and schools to assist the pupil achieve his/her potential;\n\na range of innovative strategies, resources and computer assisted programmes are available to pupils with dyslexia for whom more traditional methods are unsuccessful;\n\nwhen children who are thought to have dyslexia are put forward for assessment at Stage 3 of the Code of Practice (COP), they are either screened for additional Board support by psychology assistants or EPs. A range of cognitive and attainment tests are used in the identification of dyslexia with agreed five board criteria for additional Stage 3 and Stage 5 support applied in each case.\n\nsome schools have achieved or are working towards achievement of Dyslexia Friendly status usually in association with the British Dyslexia Association (BDA). Schools are supported by the Board services in achieving this award;\n\na range of measures to help those children and young people identified as having dyslexia under examination conditions.\n\nIn addition DE is funding the SEN Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Literacy Project which is delivered jointly by Stranmillis and St Mary’s University Colleges. This project is being funded for 3 years and will be completed at the end of March 2015.\n\nThe project, which offers specialist training accredited by the British Dyslexia Association to all primary schools, enables teachers to identify children with literacy difficulties, including dyslexia, assess their individual needs and provide appropriate interventions.\n\nELBs will continue to review their services in order to provide improved assistance to those children and young people with dyslexia.","answerHtml":"The Education and Library Boards (ELBs) have advised that a range of special education support and provision is available to parents and schools for a child identified with dyslexia, including the following:
dyslexia awareness training for schools (and parents) as requested by schools to enhance the capacity of teachers to identify and respond appropriately in addressing dyslexia;
all Educational Psychologists (EPs) are trained and skilled in the assessment and identification of dyslexia. Following the identification of dyslexia EPs provide a comprehensive range of support including recommendations and resources to parents and schools to assist the pupil achieve his/her potential;
a range of innovative strategies, resources and computer assisted programmes are available to pupils with dyslexia for whom more traditional methods are unsuccessful;
when children who are thought to have dyslexia are put forward for assessment at Stage 3 of the Code of Practice (COP), they are either screened for additional Board support by psychology assistants or EPs. A range of cognitive and attainment tests are used in the identification of dyslexia with agreed five board criteria for additional Stage 3 and Stage 5 support applied in each case.
some schools have achieved or are working towards achievement of Dyslexia Friendly status usually in association with the British Dyslexia Association (BDA). Schools are supported by the Board services in achieving this award;
a range of measures to help those children and young people identified as having dyslexia under examination conditions.
In addition DE is funding the SEN Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Literacy Project which is delivered jointly by Stranmillis and St Mary’s University Colleges. This project is being funded for 3 years and will be completed at the end of March 2015.
The project, which offers specialist training accredited by the British Dyslexia Association to all primary schools, enables teachers to identify children with literacy difficulties, including dyslexia, assess their individual needs and provide appropriate interventions.
ELBs will continue to review their services in order to provide improved assistance to those children and young people with dyslexia.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037360%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210055","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210055"}},{"id":"210054","reference":"AQW 37359/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-10","answerBy":"2014-10-27","answered":"2014-11-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the input his Department will have in setting the district rate for ratepayers in new super-councils where there is disparity between the existing councils.","answerText":"My Department will have no input in relation to the setting of district rates for councils following the reorganisation of local government.\n\nThe setting of district rates is entirely a matter for the new councils.","answerHtml":"My Department will have no input in relation to the setting of district rates for councils following the reorganisation of local government.
The setting of district rates is entirely a matter for the new councils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037359%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210054"}},{"id":"210050","reference":"AQW 37355/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-10","answerBy":"2014-10-27","answered":"2014-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what support is available to university students diagnosed with dyslexia.","answerText":"Supporting students with learning difficulties into and through higher education is a key objective of my Department. In September 2012 I launched Access to Success, my Department’s regional strategy to widen participation in higher education by disadvantaged students, including those with learning difficulties. The strategy has a strong focus on the creation of a more accessible sector in which the people who are most able but least likely to participate are given every encouragement and support to apply to, and to benefit from, higher education.\n\nWhen a student with a learning difficulty such as dyslexia applies for a Higher Education course they are encouraged to apply for Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs) to help cover the extra costs of any support they may require throughout their course as a direct result of their specific condition. DSAs can help with the cost of non-medical support providers, major items of specialist equipment, travel and other costs. A student can apply at any time before or during their course, and the amount of assistance does not depend on their income or their family income. This allowance does not have to be repaid.\n\nThrough DSAs my Department also provides funding to meet the administration costs of a Register of Support Providers in each of the two Northern Ireland universities. The Register of Support Providers is a unique service which provides one to one personal support to disabled students registered on recognised higher education courses at any of the colleges or universities in Northern Ireland. The Register maintains and develops a resource of freelance professional and non-professional support providers, who act in specialist roles to support disabled students. The student’s support needs are assessed, and the student is “matched” with the appropriate support provider(s). Support providers include audio-typists, note-takers, dyslexia coaches, study skills mentors, sign language interpreters and campus assistants.","answerHtml":"Supporting students with learning difficulties into and through higher education is a key objective of my Department. In September 2012 I launched Access to Success, my Department’s regional strategy to widen participation in higher education by disadvantaged students, including those with learning difficulties. The strategy has a strong focus on the creation of a more accessible sector in which the people who are most able but least likely to participate are given every encouragement and support to apply to, and to benefit from, higher education.
When a student with a learning difficulty such as dyslexia applies for a Higher Education course they are encouraged to apply for Disabled Students Allowances (DSAs) to help cover the extra costs of any support they may require throughout their course as a direct result of their specific condition. DSAs can help with the cost of non-medical support providers, major items of specialist equipment, travel and other costs. A student can apply at any time before or during their course, and the amount of assistance does not depend on their income or their family income. This allowance does not have to be repaid.
Through DSAs my Department also provides funding to meet the administration costs of a Register of Support Providers in each of the two Northern Ireland universities. The Register of Support Providers is a unique service which provides one to one personal support to disabled students registered on recognised higher education courses at any of the colleges or universities in Northern Ireland. The Register maintains and develops a resource of freelance professional and non-professional support providers, who act in specialist roles to support disabled students. The student’s support needs are assessed, and the student is “matched” with the appropriate support provider(s). Support providers include audio-typists, note-takers, dyslexia coaches, study skills mentors, sign language interpreters and campus assistants.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037355%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210050","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210050"}},{"id":"210048","reference":"AQW 37353/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-10","answerBy":"2014-10-27","answered":"2014-11-03","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps his Department is taking to assess and address the risk factors resulting in young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training.","answerText":"My Department is responsible for the implementation of the Executive’s “Pathways to Success” which seeks to address the needs of all young people who are presently Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). This work is monitored and supported by a delivery infrastructure under the direction of the NEET Advisory Group, which is representative of key decision makers from Government Departments, the voluntary and community sector, education, health, social care and business sectors and local government.\n\nA range of programmes has been developed to meet the needs of those young who are in the NEET category, all of which include the development of a personal action plan based on a detailed assessment of each young person’s specific needs. The following programmes currently provide targeted support to young people in the NEET category. I have also referenced a number of new initiatives which will provide additional support to those young people furthest away from the labour market. These include:\n\nCollaboration and Innovation Fund\n\nThis programme commences with an initial assessment by qualified staff to identify the barriers which are preventing the young people moving towards employment. This enables staff to develop a meaningful action plan designed to address the specific barriers and help the young people to improve their employability skills.\n\nLocal Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS)\n\nThis is a community-based employment initiative designed to help the “hardest to reach” in targeted geographical areas. LEMIS Mentors travel to meet clients with a common employability barrier in their local area, to conduct an assessment of the clients’ specific needs and to arrange mentoring and other support measures to address the critical barriers.\n\nThe Community Family Support Programme (CFSP)\n\nCFSP focuses on the needs of the most disadvantaged families, to enable young people to re- engage with Employment, Education, or Training. This programme has received additional financial support from OFMDFM and has been designated as a ‘Signature Project under the Delivering Social Change initiative.\n\nCareers Service\n\nMy Department’s Careers Service currently provides dedicated advice and support to all 16-17 year olds in the NEET category. These clients are allocated a specific careers adviser who provides support and advocacy to assist them to secure an appropriate education, employment or training opportunity. Careers advisers also work with those young people who have unfortunately dropped out of education and training, to help them back into a positive labour market opportunity.\n\nThe United Youth Programme (UYP)\n\nMy Department is leading on the development of the Executive’s United Youth Programme which has two specific outcomes:\n\nThe personal development of young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), to improve their confidence, skills and experience; and\n\nThe promotion of good relations between these young people and others across the community, including people (and particularly young people) from other religious backgrounds.\n\nIn the early pilot phase I am particularly interested in finding new and creative ways of engaging those most disadvantaged or at risk of exclusion.\n\nApprenticeships\n\nIn June 2014, my Department published Securing our Success: The Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships which will be central in transforming our skills landscape and securing our economic success. The new model for apprenticeships will be in place for 2016 and includes a range of commitments to increase participation by a wide range of individuals. In particular, a pilot project will be taken forward to develop a new youth training offer to widen access to apprenticeships to individuals with disabilities or other barriers that are impacting on their ability to engage in education and training.\n\nEconomic Inactivity\n\nMy Department is currently working in partnership with DETI, DSD, Invest NI and DHSSPS to develop a new strategy to tackle economic inactivity. A key aspect of this Strategy will be the delivery of initiatives designed to reduce the numbers of young people who are economically inactive.","answerHtml":"My Department is responsible for the implementation of the Executive’s “Pathways to Success” which seeks to address the needs of all young people who are presently Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET). This work is monitored and supported by a delivery infrastructure under the direction of the NEET Advisory Group, which is representative of key decision makers from Government Departments, the voluntary and community sector, education, health, social care and business sectors and local government.
A range of programmes has been developed to meet the needs of those young who are in the NEET category, all of which include the development of a personal action plan based on a detailed assessment of each young person’s specific needs. The following programmes currently provide targeted support to young people in the NEET category. I have also referenced a number of new initiatives which will provide additional support to those young people furthest away from the labour market. These include:
Collaboration and Innovation Fund
This programme commences with an initial assessment by qualified staff to identify the barriers which are preventing the young people moving towards employment. This enables staff to develop a meaningful action plan designed to address the specific barriers and help the young people to improve their employability skills.
Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS)
This is a community-based employment initiative designed to help the “hardest to reach” in targeted geographical areas. LEMIS Mentors travel to meet clients with a common employability barrier in their local area, to conduct an assessment of the clients’ specific needs and to arrange mentoring and other support measures to address the critical barriers.
The Community Family Support Programme (CFSP)
CFSP focuses on the needs of the most disadvantaged families, to enable young people to re- engage with Employment, Education, or Training. This programme has received additional financial support from OFMDFM and has been designated as a ‘Signature Project under the Delivering Social Change initiative.
Careers Service
My Department’s Careers Service currently provides dedicated advice and support to all 16-17 year olds in the NEET category. These clients are allocated a specific careers adviser who provides support and advocacy to assist them to secure an appropriate education, employment or training opportunity. Careers advisers also work with those young people who have unfortunately dropped out of education and training, to help them back into a positive labour market opportunity.
The United Youth Programme (UYP)
My Department is leading on the development of the Executive’s United Youth Programme which has two specific outcomes:
The personal development of young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), to improve their confidence, skills and experience; and
The promotion of good relations between these young people and others across the community, including people (and particularly young people) from other religious backgrounds.
In the early pilot phase I am particularly interested in finding new and creative ways of engaging those most disadvantaged or at risk of exclusion.
Apprenticeships
In June 2014, my Department published Securing our Success: The Northern Ireland Strategy on Apprenticeships which will be central in transforming our skills landscape and securing our economic success. The new model for apprenticeships will be in place for 2016 and includes a range of commitments to increase participation by a wide range of individuals. In particular, a pilot project will be taken forward to develop a new youth training offer to widen access to apprenticeships to individuals with disabilities or other barriers that are impacting on their ability to engage in education and training.
Economic Inactivity
My Department is currently working in partnership with DETI, DSD, Invest NI and DHSSPS to develop a new strategy to tackle economic inactivity. A key aspect of this Strategy will be the delivery of initiatives designed to reduce the numbers of young people who are economically inactive.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037353%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=210048","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=210048"}},{"id":"209838","reference":"AQW 37296/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-09","answerBy":"2014-10-24","answered":"2014-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline the ways in which her Department supports statutory bodies, which are designated public authorities in their own right, to produce their own Disability Action Plans.","answerText":"Under Section 49B of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, public authorities are required to produce a disability action plan showing how they propose to fulfil the disability duties in relation to their functions. It is the responsibility of each of the Department’s Arms Length Bodies (ALBs) to develop their own Disability Action Plan (DAP) in relation to their functions.\n\nWhen the statutory duty to produce a DAP was first introduced in 2007 the Department’s Equality Unit hosted a meeting of ALB Equality Officers to provide initial advice and guidance on the development of their plans.\n\nThe Department’s Research and Statistics branch produces regular statistical bulletins on a number of areas of DCAL’s business, including sport, arts, museums, libraries, angling and inland waterways, which present analysis by Section 75 groups, including those who have and do not have a disability. In addition, Sponsor Branches carry out audits of inequalities. The statistical bulletins and the audit can be used to inform the development of the DAPs of our ALBs.\n\nAs part of the Department’s sponsorship and governance arrangements with its ALBs the disability duties are discussed at accountability meetings as necessary and are also included in the assurance statements completed by ALBs ensuring regular engagement on the matter.","answerHtml":"Under Section 49B of the Disability Discrimination Act 1995, public authorities are required to produce a disability action plan showing how they propose to fulfil the disability duties in relation to their functions. It is the responsibility of each of the Department’s Arms Length Bodies (ALBs) to develop their own Disability Action Plan (DAP) in relation to their functions.
When the statutory duty to produce a DAP was first introduced in 2007 the Department’s Equality Unit hosted a meeting of ALB Equality Officers to provide initial advice and guidance on the development of their plans.
The Department’s Research and Statistics branch produces regular statistical bulletins on a number of areas of DCAL’s business, including sport, arts, museums, libraries, angling and inland waterways, which present analysis by Section 75 groups, including those who have and do not have a disability. In addition, Sponsor Branches carry out audits of inequalities. The statistical bulletins and the audit can be used to inform the development of the DAPs of our ALBs.
As part of the Department’s sponsorship and governance arrangements with its ALBs the disability duties are discussed at accountability meetings as necessary and are also included in the assurance statements completed by ALBs ensuring regular engagement on the matter.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037296%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209838","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209838"}},{"id":"209837","reference":"AQW 37295/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-09","answerBy":"2014-10-24","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the approximate number of staff that will move to her Department’s new headquarters at Ballykelly; and whether economic benefits, through job creation in the local area, is a realistic outcome of this move.","answerText":"On 26 June, the First Minister and deputy First Minister conveyed agreement to the relocation of my departmental headquarters to Ballykelly. The project is now proceeding and involves a new build, to accommodate 400 workstations to be completed by the end of 2017 and an extension to accommodate a further 200 workstations to be completed by end of 2020.\n\nIn order to ensure that there is a transfer of corporate knowledge to the new location my officials are preparing a detailed staff transition plan which will align with the 400 and 200 workstation arrangements.\n\nThe relocation of my department to Ballykelly will realistically help stimulate the local economy through increased local spending, provision of high quality and high value public sector jobs and potentially jobs associated with the construction and the ongoing servicing of the new accommodation. It will help to share wealth across the economy and contribute to better-balanced economic growth and help to address disparities in the distribution of public sector jobs in the north of Ireland.","answerHtml":"On 26 June, the First Minister and deputy First Minister conveyed agreement to the relocation of my departmental headquarters to Ballykelly. The project is now proceeding and involves a new build, to accommodate 400 workstations to be completed by the end of 2017 and an extension to accommodate a further 200 workstations to be completed by end of 2020.
In order to ensure that there is a transfer of corporate knowledge to the new location my officials are preparing a detailed staff transition plan which will align with the 400 and 200 workstation arrangements.
The relocation of my department to Ballykelly will realistically help stimulate the local economy through increased local spending, provision of high quality and high value public sector jobs and potentially jobs associated with the construction and the ongoing servicing of the new accommodation. It will help to share wealth across the economy and contribute to better-balanced economic growth and help to address disparities in the distribution of public sector jobs in the north of Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037295%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209837","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209837"}},{"id":"209836","reference":"AQW 37294/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-09","answerBy":"2014-10-24","answered":"2014-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the current relationship between educational attainment and social disadvantage, and the perceived inequality in outcomes for school age students from the most deprived areas.","answerText":"The Department’s evidence, based on a census of all schools/pupils, confirms that social deprivation, as measured by Free School Meals, is strongly correlated with and reflective of educational disadvantage and lower educational attainment. This is very much in line with international evidence which also reports the strong correlation between pupils’ socio-economic background and their outcomes in education.\n\nDespite improving outcomes at all stages, the attainment gap between our most and least deprived pupils remains. This inequality in outcomes is a reality not a perception.\n\nIn 2013, 34.9% (one third) of school leavers entitled to free school meals (FSME) achieved 5 or more GCSEs at A*-C (or equivalent) including English and maths compared to 68.4% (two thirds) of leavers not entitled free school meals. In 2012/13 pupil level data was received for the first time for primary school-age pupils. The figures show that 62.6% of FSME pupils achieved the expected level (Level 4) or above in Communication compared to 82.9% of non-FSME pupils and 64.1% of FSME pupils achieved the expected level (Level 4) or above in Using Mathematics compared to 84.2% of non-FSME pupils.\n\nThis lower level of achievement amongst pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds is consistent with levels of poverty, a lack of social mobility and a pattern of educational inequality. These factors impact on a child’s education pathway from their earliest years.\n\nThe evidence shows that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds have greater obstacles to overcome. Their schools need additional resources to help them do this. That is why I have redistributed school funding to target schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds and injected a further £10 million specifically targeting social deprivation into school budgets from April 2014.\n\nI have also continued to implement policies and provide funding for a range of additional interventions, with a focus on improving standards and tackling educational underachievement. However, there are two other key issues.\n\nFirstly, a socially balanced education system enables all pupils to perform better. While some schools persist in the use of academic selection, we will be unable to eradicate this social division.\n\nSecondly, inequality in outcomes is a societal issue and one that education authorities and schools cannot tackle on their own. The challenge of tackling inequalities, be they educational, health or economic, is one that we all face and success will depend on all stakeholders working together in order to achieve greater equity in our society.","answerHtml":"The Department’s evidence, based on a census of all schools/pupils, confirms that social deprivation, as measured by Free School Meals, is strongly correlated with and reflective of educational disadvantage and lower educational attainment. This is very much in line with international evidence which also reports the strong correlation between pupils’ socio-economic background and their outcomes in education.
Despite improving outcomes at all stages, the attainment gap between our most and least deprived pupils remains. This inequality in outcomes is a reality not a perception.
In 2013, 34.9% (one third) of school leavers entitled to free school meals (FSME) achieved 5 or more GCSEs at A*-C (or equivalent) including English and maths compared to 68.4% (two thirds) of leavers not entitled free school meals. In 2012/13 pupil level data was received for the first time for primary school-age pupils. The figures show that 62.6% of FSME pupils achieved the expected level (Level 4) or above in Communication compared to 82.9% of non-FSME pupils and 64.1% of FSME pupils achieved the expected level (Level 4) or above in Using Mathematics compared to 84.2% of non-FSME pupils.
This lower level of achievement amongst pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds is consistent with levels of poverty, a lack of social mobility and a pattern of educational inequality. These factors impact on a child’s education pathway from their earliest years.
The evidence shows that pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds have greater obstacles to overcome. Their schools need additional resources to help them do this. That is why I have redistributed school funding to target schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds and injected a further £10 million specifically targeting social deprivation into school budgets from April 2014.
I have also continued to implement policies and provide funding for a range of additional interventions, with a focus on improving standards and tackling educational underachievement. However, there are two other key issues.
Firstly, a socially balanced education system enables all pupils to perform better. While some schools persist in the use of academic selection, we will be unable to eradicate this social division.
Secondly, inequality in outcomes is a societal issue and one that education authorities and schools cannot tackle on their own. The challenge of tackling inequalities, be they educational, health or economic, is one that we all face and success will depend on all stakeholders working together in order to achieve greater equity in our society.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037294%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209836","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209836"}},{"id":"209835","reference":"AQW 37293/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-09","answerBy":"2014-10-24","answered":"2014-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what support her Department has provided to grass roots soccer programmes in East Londonderry since 2011.","answerText":"Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, has supported grassroots football in the constituency area since 2011 through the presence of a sports development officer who has offered a range of opportunities to clubs in the area. These include the hosting of a North West Coaching Forum for coaches and club volunteers in 2011 and 2013; ongoing guidance and support around the ‘Clubmark’ accreditation scheme; and offering bespoke coach development workshops in the region during 2011 and 2012. The officer has also attended local club presentation nights on behalf of Sport NI.\n\nIn the 2013/14 financial year, the Foyle Cup received funding of £30,000 as part of the 2013 City of Culture. In addition, throughout the City of Culture year, the Irish Football Association delivered a wide range of football training initiatives including soccer schools, street leagues and coaching courses as well as the UEFA Grassroots Day Festival of Football 2013.","answerHtml":"Sport NI, an arms length body of my Department, has supported grassroots football in the constituency area since 2011 through the presence of a sports development officer who has offered a range of opportunities to clubs in the area. These include the hosting of a North West Coaching Forum for coaches and club volunteers in 2011 and 2013; ongoing guidance and support around the ‘Clubmark’ accreditation scheme; and offering bespoke coach development workshops in the region during 2011 and 2012. The officer has also attended local club presentation nights on behalf of Sport NI.
In the 2013/14 financial year, the Foyle Cup received funding of £30,000 as part of the 2013 City of Culture. In addition, throughout the City of Culture year, the Irish Football Association delivered a wide range of football training initiatives including soccer schools, street leagues and coaching courses as well as the UEFA Grassroots Day Festival of Football 2013.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037293%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209835","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209835"}},{"id":"209834","reference":"AQW 37292/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-09","answerBy":"2014-10-24","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the capacity of non-grammar schools to meet the challenges of maintaining and improving on the number of students achieving the expected levels of performance in English and maths.","answerText":"The status or name of a school is irrelevant to the quality of education the school provides. All schools deliver the same curriculum. International reports tell us that we need to have a socially balanced school system to enable all pupils to achieve their potential. However, the continued use of academic selection by some schools presents significant challenges for all schools.\n\nInternational and local evidence highlights the link between deprivation and educational attainment and shows that schools with the highest concentrations of socially deprived pupils face the greatest challenges in supporting their pupils. In our post primary sector this concentration of deprivation is most evident in non-selective schools and I’m cognisant of the particular challenges these schools face.\n\nIt should also be noted however, that a number of non-selective schools have been successful in overcoming this challenge and in delivering improved outcomes for their pupils. Examples can be found in the case studies included in the Education and Training Inspectorate’s (ETI) report entitled ‘The Survey of Best Practice in English and Mathematics in Post-Primary Schools’.\n\nhttp://www.etini.gov.uk/index/surveys-evaluations/surveys-evaluations-post-primary/surveys-evaluations-post-primary-2013/best-practice-in-english-and-mathematics-in-post-primary-schools.pdf\n\nMy aim is to improve equity in our system. I am supporting schools to achieve this through a set of evidence based policies that are designed to raise standards; by taking forward a range of additional interventions; and by working to raise parental and community aspirations.\n\nI have redistributed school funding to target schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds and injected a further £10 million specifically targeting social deprivation into school budgets from April 2014.\n\nWithin schools, I am implementing a range of funded programmes to improve pupils’ outcomes in literacy and numeracy. These include the Delivering Social Change programme to employ additional teachers, a literacy and numeracy CPD Key Stage 2/3 Project, the Strategic Development Fund to Area Learning Communities and the Greater West Belfast Primary Schools Project. In addition, the ETI is delivering a targeted support programme in a number of post primary schools which aims to bring about improvements in the teaching of GCSE English and maths.\n\nThe ETI has also worked with ESaGS.tv to identify good practice in the teaching of English and mathematics and working with effective practitioners, shared good practice with other schools. It is through such dissemination of good practice that schools can develop the capacity to raise standards achieved by their pupils.\n\nAlleviating deprivation and its impact cannot be tackled by schools alone. I am also providing additional funding to support recently initiated programmes targeted at socially deprived communities. These include the Community Education Initiatives Programme and the Greater West Belfast Community Project. The Education Works advertising campaign is also aimed at delivering positive educational outcomes.","answerHtml":"The status or name of a school is irrelevant to the quality of education the school provides. All schools deliver the same curriculum. International reports tell us that we need to have a socially balanced school system to enable all pupils to achieve their potential. However, the continued use of academic selection by some schools presents significant challenges for all schools.
International and local evidence highlights the link between deprivation and educational attainment and shows that schools with the highest concentrations of socially deprived pupils face the greatest challenges in supporting their pupils. In our post primary sector this concentration of deprivation is most evident in non-selective schools and I’m cognisant of the particular challenges these schools face.
It should also be noted however, that a number of non-selective schools have been successful in overcoming this challenge and in delivering improved outcomes for their pupils. Examples can be found in the case studies included in the Education and Training Inspectorate’s (ETI) report entitled ‘The Survey of Best Practice in English and Mathematics in Post-Primary Schools’.
http://www.etini.gov.uk/index/surveys-evaluations/surveys-evaluations-post-primary/surveys-evaluations-post-primary-2013/best-practice-in-english-and-mathematics-in-post-primary-schools.pdf
My aim is to improve equity in our system. I am supporting schools to achieve this through a set of evidence based policies that are designed to raise standards; by taking forward a range of additional interventions; and by working to raise parental and community aspirations.
I have redistributed school funding to target schools with high numbers of pupils from socially disadvantaged backgrounds and injected a further £10 million specifically targeting social deprivation into school budgets from April 2014.
Within schools, I am implementing a range of funded programmes to improve pupils’ outcomes in literacy and numeracy. These include the Delivering Social Change programme to employ additional teachers, a literacy and numeracy CPD Key Stage 2/3 Project, the Strategic Development Fund to Area Learning Communities and the Greater West Belfast Primary Schools Project. In addition, the ETI is delivering a targeted support programme in a number of post primary schools which aims to bring about improvements in the teaching of GCSE English and maths.
The ETI has also worked with ESaGS.tv to identify good practice in the teaching of English and mathematics and working with effective practitioners, shared good practice with other schools. It is through such dissemination of good practice that schools can develop the capacity to raise standards achieved by their pupils.
Alleviating deprivation and its impact cannot be tackled by schools alone. I am also providing additional funding to support recently initiated programmes targeted at socially deprived communities. These include the Community Education Initiatives Programme and the Greater West Belfast Community Project. The Education Works advertising campaign is also aimed at delivering positive educational outcomes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037292%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209834","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209834"}},{"id":"209538","reference":"AQW 37192/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-08","answerBy":"2014-10-23","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what provision is in place to ensure that the needs of any pupil attending a post-primary school, who has a physical disability, is appropriately met by school transport services.","answerText":"The Education and Library Boards have informed me that pupils with both special education needs and a physical disability will be subject to the statementing process which will determine whether a pupil has special transport needs and if so how these should be addressed and for how long. Such statements may be the subject of regular review.\n\nPupils with a physical disability, but without special needs, will be subject to a medical process. As with the statementing process, the medical process will determine whether a pupil has transport needs and if so how these should be addressed and for how long.\n\nPupils with a short-term physical disability may, on production of suitable medical evidence, be provided with transport assistance for a short period.","answerHtml":"The Education and Library Boards have informed me that pupils with both special education needs and a physical disability will be subject to the statementing process which will determine whether a pupil has special transport needs and if so how these should be addressed and for how long. Such statements may be the subject of regular review.
Pupils with a physical disability, but without special needs, will be subject to a medical process. As with the statementing process, the medical process will determine whether a pupil has transport needs and if so how these should be addressed and for how long.
Pupils with a short-term physical disability may, on production of suitable medical evidence, be provided with transport assistance for a short period.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037192%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209538","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209538"}},{"id":"209533","reference":"AQW 37188/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-08","answerBy":"2014-10-23","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of existing transport provision for school pupils in each Education and Library Board, including eligibility criteria for a free school bus pass for pupils.","answerText":"The existing school transport policy provides assistance for eligible pupils in the form of a seat on a bus (or other vehicle), or a sessional ticket (“bus pass”), or a monetary allowance in lieu of transport. Eligibility is based on attendance at a suitable school (one in the recognised categories of Catholic Maintained, Controlled or Other Voluntary, Integrated, Irish Medium, and Denominational and Non-Denominational Grammar) and distance (two miles for Primary pupils and three miles for Post-Primary). In the context of parents’ legal duty to secure the regular attendance of their child(ren) at school, the distance criterion reflected the distance beyond which it was viewed that pupils may require assistance to facilitate their attendance. The suitable school criterion reflects parental choice in terms of the category of school they wish their child(ren) to attend.\n\nThis system presently assists almost 90,000 pupils at an annual cost of almost £75 million. However, given that the current policy has been in operation relatively unchanged for many years, I recently commissioned an Independent Review of the policy with the aim of ensuring that we are delivering the optimum service possible in all aspects of education here, so that there is equality of opportunity and access for all our young people and every child is enabled to achieve to their full potential. Transport is a key facilitator in this vision.\n\nI am, at present, taking time to consider in detail the findings of the Independent Review Panel before making decisions on the way forward, and will publish the Panel’s Report in due course.","answerHtml":"The existing school transport policy provides assistance for eligible pupils in the form of a seat on a bus (or other vehicle), or a sessional ticket (“bus pass”), or a monetary allowance in lieu of transport. Eligibility is based on attendance at a suitable school (one in the recognised categories of Catholic Maintained, Controlled or Other Voluntary, Integrated, Irish Medium, and Denominational and Non-Denominational Grammar) and distance (two miles for Primary pupils and three miles for Post-Primary). In the context of parents’ legal duty to secure the regular attendance of their child(ren) at school, the distance criterion reflected the distance beyond which it was viewed that pupils may require assistance to facilitate their attendance. The suitable school criterion reflects parental choice in terms of the category of school they wish their child(ren) to attend.
This system presently assists almost 90,000 pupils at an annual cost of almost £75 million. However, given that the current policy has been in operation relatively unchanged for many years, I recently commissioned an Independent Review of the policy with the aim of ensuring that we are delivering the optimum service possible in all aspects of education here, so that there is equality of opportunity and access for all our young people and every child is enabled to achieve to their full potential. Transport is a key facilitator in this vision.
I am, at present, taking time to consider in detail the findings of the Independent Review Panel before making decisions on the way forward, and will publish the Panel’s Report in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037188%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209533","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209533"}},{"id":"209531","reference":"AQW 37186/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-08","answerBy":"2014-10-23","answered":"2014-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to outline the ways in which his Department is collaborating with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to promote and encourage healthy eating in primary and post-primary schools.","answerText":"The Department has proactively sought to promote and encourage healthy eating in our schools working closely with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) and a range of initiatives are in place reflecting this collaborative approach.\n\nI would refer the Member to my answer to her earlier assembly question (AQW 37183/11-15) published in the Official Report on 17 October which details some of the actions taken forward jointly by my Department and the DHSSPS in this regard including the development and publication of the joint “Food in Schools Policy” (the Policy) and the associated nutritional standards for school food.\n\nIn seeking to support schools to implement the Policy and the nutritional standards a Food in Schools Forum (the Forum) was established jointly by DE and DHSSPS. The Forum provides strategic leadership and guidance on food in schools. A key aspect of the Forum’s remit is to consider and identify how healthy eating may be promoted and encouraged in schools reflecting the aims and objectives of the joint Policy.\n\nOfficials from both Departments are represented on the Forum along with representatives from the Education and Library Boards, the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA), the Food Standards Agency (FSA), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Safefood.\n\nThrough the Forum a range of measures have been and are being progressed to ensure that schools and the school catering service are equipped with the necessary resources to promote and encourage healthy eating.\n\nThis includes, for example, a range of Essential Guides (produced on behalf of DE/DHSSPS by the Public Health Agency (PHA)) which have been circulated to schools and which provide advice on, for example, the provision of healthier breaks, fresh drinking water, and healthier breakfast clubs as well as advice on how to establish a whole school food policy and how to improve the school dining experience. The Guides aim to help schools improve pupils’ nutrition and implement healthier eating and drinking practices and include clear advice on the actions schools should take to encourage and promote each of these aspects of the Policy.\n\nThe DE/DHSSPS jointly funded regional Food in Schools Coordinator post has enabled a Food in Schools central resource to be developed using the C2k Fronter application (C2k’s virtual learning environment). This resource – known as the “food @ my school” room - provides up to date information for schools in relation to promoting healthy food and nutrition in schools, highlighting relevant and curriculum-focused resources as well as sharing examples of how a whole school approach to all food in schools improves the health and wellbeing of pupils and staff. This is a key method through which the Departments are working to promote and encourage healthy eating in schools and raise awareness among principals and teachers.\n\nIn February 2014 DHSSPS and DE participated in the Food in Schools Policy Conference hosted by Stranmillis University College. The aim of the conference was to raise awareness and understanding of the Food in Schools policy within schools and to support schools in implementing it effectively. The Conference included presentations on a number of issues relating to food and nutrition which are available on ‘food @ my school’ room as a useful resource for schools.","answerHtml":"The Department has proactively sought to promote and encourage healthy eating in our schools working closely with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSSPS) and a range of initiatives are in place reflecting this collaborative approach.
I would refer the Member to my answer to her earlier assembly question (AQW 37183/11-15) published in the Official Report on 17 October which details some of the actions taken forward jointly by my Department and the DHSSPS in this regard including the development and publication of the joint “Food in Schools Policy” (the Policy) and the associated nutritional standards for school food.
In seeking to support schools to implement the Policy and the nutritional standards a Food in Schools Forum (the Forum) was established jointly by DE and DHSSPS. The Forum provides strategic leadership and guidance on food in schools. A key aspect of the Forum’s remit is to consider and identify how healthy eating may be promoted and encouraged in schools reflecting the aims and objectives of the joint Policy.
Officials from both Departments are represented on the Forum along with representatives from the Education and Library Boards, the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA), the Food Standards Agency (FSA), the Public Health Agency (PHA) and Safefood.
Through the Forum a range of measures have been and are being progressed to ensure that schools and the school catering service are equipped with the necessary resources to promote and encourage healthy eating.
This includes, for example, a range of Essential Guides (produced on behalf of DE/DHSSPS by the Public Health Agency (PHA)) which have been circulated to schools and which provide advice on, for example, the provision of healthier breaks, fresh drinking water, and healthier breakfast clubs as well as advice on how to establish a whole school food policy and how to improve the school dining experience. The Guides aim to help schools improve pupils’ nutrition and implement healthier eating and drinking practices and include clear advice on the actions schools should take to encourage and promote each of these aspects of the Policy.
The DE/DHSSPS jointly funded regional Food in Schools Coordinator post has enabled a Food in Schools central resource to be developed using the C2k Fronter application (C2k’s virtual learning environment). This resource – known as the “food @ my school” room - provides up to date information for schools in relation to promoting healthy food and nutrition in schools, highlighting relevant and curriculum-focused resources as well as sharing examples of how a whole school approach to all food in schools improves the health and wellbeing of pupils and staff. This is a key method through which the Departments are working to promote and encourage healthy eating in schools and raise awareness among principals and teachers.
In February 2014 DHSSPS and DE participated in the Food in Schools Policy Conference hosted by Stranmillis University College. The aim of the conference was to raise awareness and understanding of the Food in Schools policy within schools and to support schools in implementing it effectively. The Conference included presentations on a number of issues relating to food and nutrition which are available on ‘food @ my school’ room as a useful resource for schools.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037186%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209531","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209531"}},{"id":"209528","reference":"AQW 37183/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-08","answerBy":"2014-10-23","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education for his assessment of the effectiveness of the ‘Food in Schools’ policy on nutritional standards for school lunches and other food in primary and post-primary schools.","answerText":"The Department of Education recognises that a healthy, balanced diet is vital for children’s growth and development and that good nutrition makes a positive contribution to children’s learning, concentration and educational performance. Therefore, the Department has proactively sought to improve the quality of food in our schools.\n\nIt is for this reason that I, along with the previous Health Minister, launched the Food in Schools Policy (the Policy) on 24 September 2013. The Policy sets out the overall aims and objectives of the Department in relation to food in schools. I would note, however, that compliance with the nutritional standards for food and drink in schools is a key, but not the sole, element of the Food in Schools policy. The Policy also describes the range of activities that are being or should be put in place to deliver improved nutrition and knowledge about food for our school children. This includes, for example, the provision of free, fresh drinking water and, through delivery of the curriculum, education on how to make healthy food choices and to prepare food accordingly.\n\nSince September 2007 all schools have been required to comply with the nutritional standards for school lunches. Standards for other food and drinks provided in schools (breakfast clubs, tuck shops, vending machines etc) were also introduced in April 2008 and schools are also expected to adhere to them.\n\nIn seeking to determine the extent to which schools are complying with the nutritional standards the Education and Training Inspectorate’s Nutritional Associates obtained evidence from inspections relating to the nature, range and quality of healthy eating policies and practices in schools over the period from January 2007 to March 2011. I am pleased to advise that their findings over this time demonstrated that the vast majority of schools inspected were making outstanding or very good progress in implementing the nutritional standards.\n\nThe Department intends to undertake a survey of all grantaided schools early in 2015 to determine how effectively schools are implementing the Food in Schools policy. I would note, however, that this will seek to assess the extent to which schools are implementing all aspects of the Food in Schools policy including compliance with the nutritional standards. The findings of the survey will be used to identify any further support or advice which may be required to assist schools in implementing the Policy and complying with the nutritional standards\n\nIn 2014-15 my Department provided some £4.2 million to support schools to effectively implement the Policy and the nutritional standards. In addition, the Regional Food in Schools Co-ordinator and the services of an independent, professional dietician – posts which are jointly funded by my Department and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety – provide support and advice to schools in this regard.","answerHtml":"The Department of Education recognises that a healthy, balanced diet is vital for children’s growth and development and that good nutrition makes a positive contribution to children’s learning, concentration and educational performance. Therefore, the Department has proactively sought to improve the quality of food in our schools.
It is for this reason that I, along with the previous Health Minister, launched the Food in Schools Policy (the Policy) on 24 September 2013. The Policy sets out the overall aims and objectives of the Department in relation to food in schools. I would note, however, that compliance with the nutritional standards for food and drink in schools is a key, but not the sole, element of the Food in Schools policy. The Policy also describes the range of activities that are being or should be put in place to deliver improved nutrition and knowledge about food for our school children. This includes, for example, the provision of free, fresh drinking water and, through delivery of the curriculum, education on how to make healthy food choices and to prepare food accordingly.
Since September 2007 all schools have been required to comply with the nutritional standards for school lunches. Standards for other food and drinks provided in schools (breakfast clubs, tuck shops, vending machines etc) were also introduced in April 2008 and schools are also expected to adhere to them.
In seeking to determine the extent to which schools are complying with the nutritional standards the Education and Training Inspectorate’s Nutritional Associates obtained evidence from inspections relating to the nature, range and quality of healthy eating policies and practices in schools over the period from January 2007 to March 2011. I am pleased to advise that their findings over this time demonstrated that the vast majority of schools inspected were making outstanding or very good progress in implementing the nutritional standards.
The Department intends to undertake a survey of all grantaided schools early in 2015 to determine how effectively schools are implementing the Food in Schools policy. I would note, however, that this will seek to assess the extent to which schools are implementing all aspects of the Food in Schools policy including compliance with the nutritional standards. The findings of the survey will be used to identify any further support or advice which may be required to assist schools in implementing the Policy and complying with the nutritional standards
In 2014-15 my Department provided some £4.2 million to support schools to effectively implement the Policy and the nutritional standards. In addition, the Regional Food in Schools Co-ordinator and the services of an independent, professional dietician – posts which are jointly funded by my Department and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety – provide support and advice to schools in this regard.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037183%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209528","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209528"}},{"id":"209507","reference":"AQW 37182/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-08","answerBy":"2014-10-23","answered":"2014-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment, following his Department’s submission to the Planning Appeals Commission against the application by Arc NI 1 Ltd to build sixteen wind turbines in Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, when they expect to receive a response.","answerText":"On 11 July 2014, the Department was informed by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) that the applicant had lodged an application for an Article 33 (non determination) appeal. At the request of the PAC, the Department submitted to them twelve draft reasons. The refusal reasons reflect the Department’s concerns with regards the impact of the proposed development on the visual amenity and landscape character of the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the visual appeal and amenity value of local tourist assets, the impact on Magilligan Special Area of Conservation and flora and fauna, the impact on residential amenity and the impact on the public safety of roads users.\n\nTo date, the Department has not received further correspondence from the PAC. Jurisdiction has passed to the PAC who will determine the timetabling of this appeal. To date, the Department has not been informed of this timeframe.","answerHtml":"On 11 July 2014, the Department was informed by the Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) that the applicant had lodged an application for an Article 33 (non determination) appeal. At the request of the PAC, the Department submitted to them twelve draft reasons. The refusal reasons reflect the Department’s concerns with regards the impact of the proposed development on the visual amenity and landscape character of the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the visual appeal and amenity value of local tourist assets, the impact on Magilligan Special Area of Conservation and flora and fauna, the impact on residential amenity and the impact on the public safety of roads users.
To date, the Department has not received further correspondence from the PAC. Jurisdiction has passed to the PAC who will determine the timetabling of this appeal. To date, the Department has not been informed of this timeframe.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037182%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209507","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209507"}},{"id":"209282","reference":"AQW 37107/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-07","answerBy":"2014-10-22","answered":"2014-10-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail (i) the number of community hospitals currently being used to capacity; and (ii) the number of Health Service beds in use in private nursing facilities, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"(i) Information on the average number of occupied and available beds within community hospitals is published on an annual basis in the Northern Ireland Hospital Statistics: Inpatient and Day Case Activity publication (Table 2a) and is available to view or download from:\n\nhttp://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/stats_research/hospital-stats/inpatients.htm\n\n(ii) Information on the number of Health Service beds in use in private nursing facilities is not collected centrally and was requested from the five Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. Their responses are detailed in Table 1 below.\n\nTable 1: Health Service Beds in Use in Private Nursing Facilities\n\nHSC Trust\t2013/14\t2012/13\t2011/12\nBelfast\t42*\t42\t29\nNorthern\t-\t-\t-\nSouth Eastern\t80\t76\t60\nSouthern\t-\t-\t-\nWestern\t-\t-\t-\n\n* Refers to 1 April 2013 to 31 January 2014\n\n‘-‘ Denotes information could not be provided.","answerHtml":"(i) Information on the average number of occupied and available beds within community hospitals is published on an annual basis in the Northern Ireland Hospital Statistics: Inpatient and Day Case Activity publication (Table 2a) and is available to view or download from:
http://www.dhsspsni.gov.uk/index/stats_research/hospital-stats/inpatients.htm
(ii) Information on the number of Health Service beds in use in private nursing facilities is not collected centrally and was requested from the five Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts. Their responses are detailed in Table 1 below.
Table 1: Health Service Beds in Use in Private Nursing Facilities
| HSC Trust | 2013/14 | 2012/13 | 2011/12 |
| Belfast | 42* | 42 | 29 |
| Northern | - | - | - |
| South Eastern | 80 | 76 | 60 |
| Southern | - | - | - |
| Western | - | - | - |
* Refers to 1 April 2013 to 31 January 2014
‘-‘ Denotes information could not be provided.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037107%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209282","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209282"}},{"id":"209281","reference":"AQW 37106/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-07","answerBy":"2014-10-22","answered":"2014-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail any communication his Department have had with Ballykelly Private Hospital, with the knowledge that Health Service referrals to the hospital have increased over the last five years, when they are facing staff cuts.","answerText":"The North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly is one of a number of independent sector healthcare providers with which some Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have contracts for the provision of additional elective capacity through non-recurrent waiting list funding.\n\nA decision was taken by the Health and Social Care Board in July 2014 to pause waiting list initiative arrangements pending clarification of the 2014/15 financial position. The Board wrote to independent sector providers on 1st October 2014 to say that pending further clarification of the 2014/15 financial position, no new patients would be transferred to the independent sector and patients who had not yet been given a date for their assessment should be returned to the referring HSC Trust.\n\nI regret that the HSC Board has had to take this measure and I sympathise with the uncertainty it has caused for the management and staff of the North West Independent Hospital; however it is necessary to constrain spending in light of the significant financial pressures which my Department is facing. I met with management of the North West Independent Hospital on 10 October 2014 to discuss these issues at first hand.\n\nI am advised that the HSC Board and its Local Commissioning Groups are continuing to work with the HSC Trusts to address shortfalls in elective capacity within the resources available. This may include increasing capacity at Causeway and other hospitals.","answerHtml":"The North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly is one of a number of independent sector healthcare providers with which some Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have contracts for the provision of additional elective capacity through non-recurrent waiting list funding.
A decision was taken by the Health and Social Care Board in July 2014 to pause waiting list initiative arrangements pending clarification of the 2014/15 financial position. The Board wrote to independent sector providers on 1st October 2014 to say that pending further clarification of the 2014/15 financial position, no new patients would be transferred to the independent sector and patients who had not yet been given a date for their assessment should be returned to the referring HSC Trust.
I regret that the HSC Board has had to take this measure and I sympathise with the uncertainty it has caused for the management and staff of the North West Independent Hospital; however it is necessary to constrain spending in light of the significant financial pressures which my Department is facing. I met with management of the North West Independent Hospital on 10 October 2014 to discuss these issues at first hand.
I am advised that the HSC Board and its Local Commissioning Groups are continuing to work with the HSC Trusts to address shortfalls in elective capacity within the resources available. This may include increasing capacity at Causeway and other hospitals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037106%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209281","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209281"}},{"id":"209280","reference":"AQW 37105/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-07","answerBy":"2014-10-22","answered":"2014-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has any concerns regarding the impact on service provision by hospitals such as the Causeway Hospital following the announcement by Ballykelly Private Hospital that they are facing staff cuts.","answerText":"The North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly is one of a number of independent sector healthcare providers with which some Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have contracts for the provision of additional elective capacity through non-recurrent waiting list funding.\n\nA decision was taken by the Health and Social Care Board in July 2014 to pause waiting list initiative arrangements pending clarification of the 2014/15 financial position. The Board wrote to independent sector providers on 1st October 2014 to say that pending further clarification of the 2014/15 financial position, no new patients would be transferred to the independent sector and patients who had not yet been given a date for their assessment should be returned to the referring HSC Trust.\n\nI regret that the HSC Board has had to take this measure and I sympathise with the uncertainty it has caused for the management and staff of the North West Independent Hospital; however it is necessary to constrain spending in light of the significant financial pressures which my Department is facing. I met with management of the North West Independent Hospital on 10 October 2014 to discuss these issues at first hand.\n\nI am advised that the HSC Board and its Local Commissioning Groups are continuing to work with the HSC Trusts to address shortfalls in elective capacity within the resources available. This may include increasing capacity at Causeway and other hospitals.","answerHtml":"The North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly is one of a number of independent sector healthcare providers with which some Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have contracts for the provision of additional elective capacity through non-recurrent waiting list funding.
A decision was taken by the Health and Social Care Board in July 2014 to pause waiting list initiative arrangements pending clarification of the 2014/15 financial position. The Board wrote to independent sector providers on 1st October 2014 to say that pending further clarification of the 2014/15 financial position, no new patients would be transferred to the independent sector and patients who had not yet been given a date for their assessment should be returned to the referring HSC Trust.
I regret that the HSC Board has had to take this measure and I sympathise with the uncertainty it has caused for the management and staff of the North West Independent Hospital; however it is necessary to constrain spending in light of the significant financial pressures which my Department is facing. I met with management of the North West Independent Hospital on 10 October 2014 to discuss these issues at first hand.
I am advised that the HSC Board and its Local Commissioning Groups are continuing to work with the HSC Trusts to address shortfalls in elective capacity within the resources available. This may include increasing capacity at Causeway and other hospitals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037105%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209280","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209280"}},{"id":"209278","reference":"AQW 37103/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-07","answerBy":"2014-10-22","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to outline the range of measures the Enterprise Zone in Coleraine plans to offer to incentivise firms to move into the area.","answerText":"Enterprise Zones in GB typically offer benefits through business rate discounts, simplified planning, access to superfast broadband and Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs) for a small number of Enterprise Zones within assisted areas. The majority of these incentives are, with the exception of ECAs, already devolved policy areas and the NI Executive is already taking steps to support businesses across Northern Ireland using these levers.\n\nThe UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs) which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure.\n\nThe pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Budget statement on 19 March will only offer ECAs as an incentive, which permits 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. Such incentives are typically more attractive to particularly capital intensive investments.","answerHtml":"Enterprise Zones in GB typically offer benefits through business rate discounts, simplified planning, access to superfast broadband and Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs) for a small number of Enterprise Zones within assisted areas. The majority of these incentives are, with the exception of ECAs, already devolved policy areas and the NI Executive is already taking steps to support businesses across Northern Ireland using these levers.
The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs) which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure.
The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Budget statement on 19 March will only offer ECAs as an incentive, which permits 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. Such incentives are typically more attractive to particularly capital intensive investments.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037103%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209278","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209278"}},{"id":"209277","reference":"AQW 37102/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-07","answerBy":"2014-10-22","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what assurances she can give that the Enterprise Zone in Coleraine will enable the area to become a long-term competitive business location, to retain companies who are incentivised to locate within the Zone, and to continue to attract more business in the future.","answerText":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs) which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Budget statement on 19 March will only offer ECAs as an incentive.\n\nThe pilot project, which involves the establishment of a data centre by 5NINES in Coleraine, has the potential to promote economic development and further investment in the area. Designating this Enterprise Zone in Northern Ireland is another tool to lever economic growth. Data centres are a strategically important piece of telecommunications infrastructure. Such investments can be crucial in the development of the ICT sector as a whole and will enhance the proposition Northern Ireland can offer to inward investors who are increasingly globally connected.\n\nInvest NI’s overseas sales teams will promote the new data centre to relevant companies in international markets. This, along with the excellent telecoms and IT research base at UU Coleraine and the engineering talent available in the North West region, should help attract more FDI and local companies to explore the location as a suitable place to establish and grow their operations from.","answerHtml":"The UK Government’s Economic Pact, published on 14 June 2013, set out 3 commitments in relation to Enterprise Zones, focusing on Enhanced Capital Allowances (ECAs) which permit 100% first year allowances for qualifying plant and machinery expenditure. The pilot Enterprise Zone announced in the Budget statement on 19 March will only offer ECAs as an incentive.
The pilot project, which involves the establishment of a data centre by 5NINES in Coleraine, has the potential to promote economic development and further investment in the area. Designating this Enterprise Zone in Northern Ireland is another tool to lever economic growth. Data centres are a strategically important piece of telecommunications infrastructure. Such investments can be crucial in the development of the ICT sector as a whole and will enhance the proposition Northern Ireland can offer to inward investors who are increasingly globally connected.
Invest NI’s overseas sales teams will promote the new data centre to relevant companies in international markets. This, along with the excellent telecoms and IT research base at UU Coleraine and the engineering talent available in the North West region, should help attract more FDI and local companies to explore the location as a suitable place to establish and grow their operations from.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037102%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209277","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209277"}},{"id":"209113","reference":"AQW 37021/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-06","answerBy":"2014-10-21","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the timescale for the plans to (i) introduce additional Rapid Response Vehicles to operate alongside emergency ambulances; (ii) to utilise additional deployment points and new Satellite Navigation systems; and (iii) to open a new Regional Emergency Medical Dispatch Centre.","answerText":"These are matters for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Trust. The Trust has advised that it operates Rapid Response Vehicles and A&E ambulances and is not currently planning to increase these. The Trust also operates satellite navigation software in ambulances and deployment points. A single Regional Emergency Ambulance Control Centre, responsible for prioritising and dispatching responses to emergency 999 calls, is based at ambulance headquarters in Knockbracken Healthcare Park, Belfast.\n\nThere are no further plans at present in respect of these areas","answerHtml":"These are matters for the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Trust. The Trust has advised that it operates Rapid Response Vehicles and A&E ambulances and is not currently planning to increase these. The Trust also operates satellite navigation software in ambulances and deployment points. A single Regional Emergency Ambulance Control Centre, responsible for prioritising and dispatching responses to emergency 999 calls, is based at ambulance headquarters in Knockbracken Healthcare Park, Belfast.
There are no further plans at present in respect of these areas
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037021%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209113"}},{"id":"209112","reference":"AQW 37020/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-06","answerBy":"2014-10-21","answered":"2014-11-04","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to outline their plans to reassess the designation of Social Investment Zones in order to allow for changes in need since May 2012; and what criteria an area is required to meet in order to be considered eligible for social investment funding.","answerText":"From the outset our approach to the Social Investment Fund (SIF) has been bottom up and community led so that the projects have the support of the communities they are seeking to help. All SIF projects have therefore been identified and prioritised according to need across communities by the nine Social Investment Zone Steering Groups.\n\nThe area planning process, completed in February 2013, has culminated with funding commitments to twenty three projects worth £34.4 million. These projects, and those others prioritised within the funding allocations in November 2013, have been and continue to go through a rigorous assessment process which includes consideration of evidence of need.\n\nThere are therefore no plans to reassess the area plans or projects proposed at this stage, but rather the focus is on moving to expedite delivery on the ground.\n\nDetails of the SIF eligibility criteria are available on the OFMDFM website at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/social-investment-fund.htm","answerHtml":"From the outset our approach to the Social Investment Fund (SIF) has been bottom up and community led so that the projects have the support of the communities they are seeking to help. All SIF projects have therefore been identified and prioritised according to need across communities by the nine Social Investment Zone Steering Groups.
The area planning process, completed in February 2013, has culminated with funding commitments to twenty three projects worth £34.4 million. These projects, and those others prioritised within the funding allocations in November 2013, have been and continue to go through a rigorous assessment process which includes consideration of evidence of need.
There are therefore no plans to reassess the area plans or projects proposed at this stage, but rather the focus is on moving to expedite delivery on the ground.
Details of the SIF eligibility criteria are available on the OFMDFM website at http://www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/delivering-social-change/social-investment-fund.htm
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037020%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209112","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209112"}},{"id":"209111","reference":"AQW 37019/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-06","answerBy":"2014-10-21","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps his Department is taking to assist the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service to meet their target of responding to an average of 72.5 per cent of ‘Category A’ calls.","answerText":"My Department’s cumulative target is that by March 2015, 72.5% of Category A (life threatening) calls should be responded to within 8 minutes, with a minimum of 67.5% in each Local Commissioning Group area. I am looking to the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Trust (NIAS) to work to ensure that this target is achieved.\n\nThe HSCB has been working closely with NIAS to secure improvements in its Category A response times. I am advised that NIAS is recruiting additional personnel to fill existing vacancies to provide greater confidence of provision of ambulance cover and reduce reliance on overtime, which will enable NIAS to target available resources to improve performance. The HSCB has worked with NIAS in relation to emerging pressures as a consequence of emergency department changes, including the allocation of additional funding; the appointment of Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officers in four of the major emergency departments to work with the emergency department staff to expedite and improve ambulance turnaround times; and development of a NIAS Dashboard of indicators to manage the flow of ambulance-borne activity.","answerHtml":"My Department’s cumulative target is that by March 2015, 72.5% of Category A (life threatening) calls should be responded to within 8 minutes, with a minimum of 67.5% in each Local Commissioning Group area. I am looking to the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB) and the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service Trust (NIAS) to work to ensure that this target is achieved.
The HSCB has been working closely with NIAS to secure improvements in its Category A response times. I am advised that NIAS is recruiting additional personnel to fill existing vacancies to provide greater confidence of provision of ambulance cover and reduce reliance on overtime, which will enable NIAS to target available resources to improve performance. The HSCB has worked with NIAS in relation to emerging pressures as a consequence of emergency department changes, including the allocation of additional funding; the appointment of Hospital Ambulance Liaison Officers in four of the major emergency departments to work with the emergency department staff to expedite and improve ambulance turnaround times; and development of a NIAS Dashboard of indicators to manage the flow of ambulance-borne activity.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037019%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209111"}},{"id":"209109","reference":"AQW 37017/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-06","answerBy":"2014-10-21","answered":"2014-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps his Department is taking to address gender disparity in the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services sector.","answerText":"I recognise that gender imbalance is a key issue across many sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services and as a result, there are a number of things my Department has been doing to address this.\n\nSince November 2012, my Department has been funding the post of STEM Business Co-Ordinator to support the STEM Business Subgroup in their task of implementing the recommendations of the Success through STEM Strategy, one of which is to address the issue of gender bias.\n\nTo help with this and to promote STEM subjects and careers among females, a report was published in November 2013 entitled “Gender Imbalance – Reaping the Gender Dividend in STEM”. The report contains good practice guidelines and a Northern Ireland STEM CEO Charter.\n\nThe Equality Commission and STEM Business Subgroup launched a STEM equality charter in June 2014. Companies are urged to sign up to this charter to demonstrate their commitment to improving gender imbalance in their business.\n\nIt should be noted that to date, 24 employers have signed up to the STEM Employers Equality Network run by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland. This Network has been set up to support the charter and implement good practice and held its first meeting on 25 September 2014. A good practice manual has been agreed and published on the Equality Commission website.\n\nAlso in 2012, I established the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group to consider how issues related to skills in this sector can be addressed. This Group, which I chair, brings together government, academia and local employers to identify specific skills needs and develop appropriate solutions through an agreed Action Plan.\n\nI launched the Action Plan for this sector in April 2014 with actions designed to enhance the skills of the workforce, maximise employment opportunities and give the local industry a competitive edge in the global marketplace.\n\nOne of the areas identified for action was the low number of females working in the sector. My officials have worked closely with the STEM Business Co-Ordinator to develop and implement a number of activities to address the gender imbalance in the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services industry. For example:\n\nIn September I launched the concept of industry-led STEM scholarships in the fields of Computing and Engineering to attract and retain top graduate talent. The Computing and Engineering Scholarship Programme is open to both genders and there will be up to a maximum of 40 students undertaking a STEM scholarship (20 in Computing and 20 in Engineering). Applications are particularly welcome from females.\n\nA ‘Leaders in Industry’ programme for the sector is being developed with Queens University Belfast for possible inclusion on my Departments Management and Leadership Development suite of programmes. Applications from females will be particularly welcome.\n\nA project titled ‘Upskills to compete’ has been funded by my Department to develop potential female workers to progress their careers from 20 SMEs and four larger companies starting in April 2014.This will involve the production of 24 employer STEM diversity plans, ten role models and ten case studies. It will promote STEM subjects to 1000 schoolgirls showcasing the existing opportunities in a career in the sector by 31 March 2015. The first cohort to undertake the Career Advance Progression four day programme is underway with the 2nd cohort due to commence later this month.\n\nMy Department’s industry partners on the Working Group have completed a benchmarking survey to determine perceptions and awareness levels of career opportunities in the industry among teachers, parents and pupils. A bespoke and targeted sector attractiveness strategy which aims to inform young people and their key influencers about the wide range of quality career options that are available across the sector has been developed and a number of initiatives are underway such as building relationships between industry and local education providers.\n\nIn partnership with Bombardier and Belfast Metropolitan College, my Department funded an Aerospace Summer School to promote the STEM agenda within an area of strategic importance to the local economy. 30 young people, aged 16 to 24 participated in this programme which engaged students in hands-on activities which demonstrate the science, technology and engineering in the world of flight and is designed to match their needs and inspire participants to consider entry level jobs in Aero Technology in the sector. There was a very strong female participation.\n\nMy Department funded a visit of 23 of Northern Ireland’s top STEM students and apprentices (which included a strong female representation) to attend ‘Futures Day’ at Farnborough International Airshow in July. This included the NI Rocket Challenge winners Rainey Endowed School (a co-ed grammer school) and the Group is working towards expanding this particular initiative to include more schools from seven in 2014 to fourteen in 2015.\n\nThe UK Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge will be expanded to include more schools and raise the profile of this initiative. There were seven schools involved in 2014 and it is hoped this will double to fourteen in 2015. This initiative will ensure that more female pupils become aware of various aspects of the sector and crucially gain practical experience which may influence their career choices.\n\nThere is a programme of STEM activities currently being delivered in primary schools by Sentinus via their contract with the Department of Education. As the largest STEM outreach provider in Northern Ireland for schools and young people, Sentinus aims to increase awareness and interest in engineering. The Department of Education is an active member of the Working Group.\n\nTo specifically raise the profile of the sector amongst pupils at Year 8 and beyond the Working Group aims to utilise existing Ambassador networks and intends that oversee 60 schools visited by Ambassadors from the sector by March 2016. Ambassadors are put forward by employers because of their ability to communicate with and “sell” the sector to young people.\n\nIn July 2014, my Department arranged for eight students from further education colleges in Northern Ireland to attend a two week STEM summer camp at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts in. Four of the eight students who attended the camp were female and studied the ‘Women’s Leadership Academy’ strand of the FRONTIERS programme.\n\nI believe this shows that my Department through the work of the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group is actively addressing the issue of gender imbalance and I trust this reply reassures you that there is and will continue to be a strong focus on gender disparity in this sector.\n\n.","answerHtml":"I recognise that gender imbalance is a key issue across many sectors, including Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services and as a result, there are a number of things my Department has been doing to address this.
Since November 2012, my Department has been funding the post of STEM Business Co-Ordinator to support the STEM Business Subgroup in their task of implementing the recommendations of the Success through STEM Strategy, one of which is to address the issue of gender bias.
To help with this and to promote STEM subjects and careers among females, a report was published in November 2013 entitled “Gender Imbalance – Reaping the Gender Dividend in STEM”. The report contains good practice guidelines and a Northern Ireland STEM CEO Charter.
The Equality Commission and STEM Business Subgroup launched a STEM equality charter in June 2014. Companies are urged to sign up to this charter to demonstrate their commitment to improving gender imbalance in their business.
It should be noted that to date, 24 employers have signed up to the STEM Employers Equality Network run by the Equality Commission for Northern Ireland. This Network has been set up to support the charter and implement good practice and held its first meeting on 25 September 2014. A good practice manual has been agreed and published on the Equality Commission website.
Also in 2012, I established the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group to consider how issues related to skills in this sector can be addressed. This Group, which I chair, brings together government, academia and local employers to identify specific skills needs and develop appropriate solutions through an agreed Action Plan.
I launched the Action Plan for this sector in April 2014 with actions designed to enhance the skills of the workforce, maximise employment opportunities and give the local industry a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
One of the areas identified for action was the low number of females working in the sector. My officials have worked closely with the STEM Business Co-Ordinator to develop and implement a number of activities to address the gender imbalance in the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services industry. For example:
In September I launched the concept of industry-led STEM scholarships in the fields of Computing and Engineering to attract and retain top graduate talent. The Computing and Engineering Scholarship Programme is open to both genders and there will be up to a maximum of 40 students undertaking a STEM scholarship (20 in Computing and 20 in Engineering). Applications are particularly welcome from females.
A ‘Leaders in Industry’ programme for the sector is being developed with Queens University Belfast for possible inclusion on my Departments Management and Leadership Development suite of programmes. Applications from females will be particularly welcome.
A project titled ‘Upskills to compete’ has been funded by my Department to develop potential female workers to progress their careers from 20 SMEs and four larger companies starting in April 2014.This will involve the production of 24 employer STEM diversity plans, ten role models and ten case studies. It will promote STEM subjects to 1000 schoolgirls showcasing the existing opportunities in a career in the sector by 31 March 2015. The first cohort to undertake the Career Advance Progression four day programme is underway with the 2nd cohort due to commence later this month.
My Department’s industry partners on the Working Group have completed a benchmarking survey to determine perceptions and awareness levels of career opportunities in the industry among teachers, parents and pupils. A bespoke and targeted sector attractiveness strategy which aims to inform young people and their key influencers about the wide range of quality career options that are available across the sector has been developed and a number of initiatives are underway such as building relationships between industry and local education providers.
In partnership with Bombardier and Belfast Metropolitan College, my Department funded an Aerospace Summer School to promote the STEM agenda within an area of strategic importance to the local economy. 30 young people, aged 16 to 24 participated in this programme which engaged students in hands-on activities which demonstrate the science, technology and engineering in the world of flight and is designed to match their needs and inspire participants to consider entry level jobs in Aero Technology in the sector. There was a very strong female participation.
My Department funded a visit of 23 of Northern Ireland’s top STEM students and apprentices (which included a strong female representation) to attend ‘Futures Day’ at Farnborough International Airshow in July. This included the NI Rocket Challenge winners Rainey Endowed School (a co-ed grammer school) and the Group is working towards expanding this particular initiative to include more schools from seven in 2014 to fourteen in 2015.
The UK Aerospace Youth Rocketry Challenge will be expanded to include more schools and raise the profile of this initiative. There were seven schools involved in 2014 and it is hoped this will double to fourteen in 2015. This initiative will ensure that more female pupils become aware of various aspects of the sector and crucially gain practical experience which may influence their career choices.
There is a programme of STEM activities currently being delivered in primary schools by Sentinus via their contract with the Department of Education. As the largest STEM outreach provider in Northern Ireland for schools and young people, Sentinus aims to increase awareness and interest in engineering. The Department of Education is an active member of the Working Group.
To specifically raise the profile of the sector amongst pupils at Year 8 and beyond the Working Group aims to utilise existing Ambassador networks and intends that oversee 60 schools visited by Ambassadors from the sector by March 2016. Ambassadors are put forward by employers because of their ability to communicate with and “sell” the sector to young people.
In July 2014, my Department arranged for eight students from further education colleges in Northern Ireland to attend a two week STEM summer camp at Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Massachusetts in. Four of the eight students who attended the camp were female and studied the ‘Women’s Leadership Academy’ strand of the FRONTIERS programme.
I believe this shows that my Department through the work of the Advanced Manufacturing and Engineering Services Working Group is actively addressing the issue of gender imbalance and I trust this reply reassures you that there is and will continue to be a strong focus on gender disparity in this sector.
.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037017%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209109"}},{"id":"209108","reference":"AQW 37016/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-06","answerBy":"2014-10-21","answered":"2014-10-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline any plans her Department has for language projects which encourage cultural integration with migrant communities.","answerText":"My department has responsibility for the promotion of Irish, Ulster-Scots and sign languages. These languages are open to everyone and are not directed at any specific section of the community. My department does not have any plans for indigenous language projects which encourage cultural integration with migrant communities relating to either Irish or Ulster-Scots.","answerHtml":"My department has responsibility for the promotion of Irish, Ulster-Scots and sign languages. These languages are open to everyone and are not directed at any specific section of the community. My department does not have any plans for indigenous language projects which encourage cultural integration with migrant communities relating to either Irish or Ulster-Scots.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2037016%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209108"}},{"id":"209054","reference":"AQW 36974/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-03","answerBy":"2014-10-20","answered":"2014-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, pursuant to AQW 35971/11-15, with staff cuts to Ballykelly Private Hospital threatening the effectiveness of health service provision, whether he has any plans to extend services elsewhere in East Londonderry, specifically at the Causeway Hospital.","answerText":"The North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly is one of a number of independent sector healthcare providers with which some Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have contracts for the provision of additional elective capacity through non-recurrent waiting list funding.\n\nA decision was taken by the Health and Social Care Board in July 2014 to pause waiting list initiative arrangements pending clarification of the 2014/15 financial position. The Board wrote to independent sector providers on 1st October 2014 to say that pending further clarification of the 2014/15 financial position, no new patients would be transferred to the independent sector and patients who had not yet been given a date for their assessment should be returned to the referring HSC Trust.\n\nI regret that the HSC Board has had to take this measure and I sympathise with the uncertainty it has caused for the management and staff of the North West Independent Hospital; however it is necessary to constrain spending in light of the significant financial pressures which my Department is facing. I met with management of the North West Independent Hospital on 10 October 2014 to discuss these issues at first hand.\n\nI am advised that the HSC Board and its Local Commissioning Groups are continuing to work with the HSC Trusts to address shortfalls in elective capacity within the resources available. This may include increasing capacity at Causeway and other hospitals.","answerHtml":"The North West Independent Hospital in Ballykelly is one of a number of independent sector healthcare providers with which some Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts have contracts for the provision of additional elective capacity through non-recurrent waiting list funding.
A decision was taken by the Health and Social Care Board in July 2014 to pause waiting list initiative arrangements pending clarification of the 2014/15 financial position. The Board wrote to independent sector providers on 1st October 2014 to say that pending further clarification of the 2014/15 financial position, no new patients would be transferred to the independent sector and patients who had not yet been given a date for their assessment should be returned to the referring HSC Trust.
I regret that the HSC Board has had to take this measure and I sympathise with the uncertainty it has caused for the management and staff of the North West Independent Hospital; however it is necessary to constrain spending in light of the significant financial pressures which my Department is facing. I met with management of the North West Independent Hospital on 10 October 2014 to discuss these issues at first hand.
I am advised that the HSC Board and its Local Commissioning Groups are continuing to work with the HSC Trusts to address shortfalls in elective capacity within the resources available. This may include increasing capacity at Causeway and other hospitals.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036974%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209054","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209054"}},{"id":"209053","reference":"AQW 36973/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-03","answerBy":"2014-10-20","answered":"2014-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment to outline any plans his Department has for legislation, subsequent to the Road Traffic (Amendment) Bill, which will address the specific problem of driving under the influence of drugs.","answerText":"Under existing legislative provision, it is illegal to drive here whilst unfit through drugs (whether through illegal drugs or through legal prescription drugs). Penalties are just as severe as those for drink driving, in terms of fines, disqualifications and imprisonment. Securing a drug driving conviction under existing law can however be more difficult than securing one for drink driving, given the absence of statutory limits. With drink driving, the police simply have to prove that a driver is above a certain limit of alcohol in the blood, breath or urine. In order to secure a conviction for drug driving, the police must prove that the driver is impaired. This requires objective evidence that the drug/drugs were found to be present in a blood/urine test; and subjective evidence that the person appeared to be under the influence of drugs.\n\nMy aim is to bring forward legislation that will make it easier to detect and determine whether drivers are impaired through drugs. Britain is already moving in this direction. The Crime and Courts Act 2013 passed in Westminster introduced an offence of driving or being in charge of a motor vehicle with a specified controlled drug in the body, in excess of a specified limit. The objective is to reduce the wasted time, expense and effort involved for the police and the courts when prosecutions fail because of the difficulty in proving that a driver is impaired by a particular drug. Decisions on the types of drugs and specified limits to be covered by this new offence were informed by a panel of medical and scientific experts. The drugs and limits have now been specified in regulations and, subject to Parliamentary approval, the new arrangements will commence from 2 March 2015. There is some remaining work to complete with regard to the inclusion of amphetamines; this will be addressed in subsequent regulations.\n\nDrug driving is a particularly complex issue and any policy decisions taken here will have to be informed by expert advice and public consultation. I will wish to determine arrangements that are most appropriate for Northern Ireland but, in moving forward, will want to review the work already undertaken in Britain and any developments in Ireland. I will want, for instance, to be clear that suitable equipment is available for testing; and that consideration of offenders by the courts proceeds as intended under the legislation.\n\nIn terms of timescale, and subject to Executive agreement, I would hope to issue a public consultation on proposals before the end of 2015. Given the amount and complexity of the work required, a Bill on this issue could not be taken forward before the next Assembly mandate.","answerHtml":"Under existing legislative provision, it is illegal to drive here whilst unfit through drugs (whether through illegal drugs or through legal prescription drugs). Penalties are just as severe as those for drink driving, in terms of fines, disqualifications and imprisonment. Securing a drug driving conviction under existing law can however be more difficult than securing one for drink driving, given the absence of statutory limits. With drink driving, the police simply have to prove that a driver is above a certain limit of alcohol in the blood, breath or urine. In order to secure a conviction for drug driving, the police must prove that the driver is impaired. This requires objective evidence that the drug/drugs were found to be present in a blood/urine test; and subjective evidence that the person appeared to be under the influence of drugs.
My aim is to bring forward legislation that will make it easier to detect and determine whether drivers are impaired through drugs. Britain is already moving in this direction. The Crime and Courts Act 2013 passed in Westminster introduced an offence of driving or being in charge of a motor vehicle with a specified controlled drug in the body, in excess of a specified limit. The objective is to reduce the wasted time, expense and effort involved for the police and the courts when prosecutions fail because of the difficulty in proving that a driver is impaired by a particular drug. Decisions on the types of drugs and specified limits to be covered by this new offence were informed by a panel of medical and scientific experts. The drugs and limits have now been specified in regulations and, subject to Parliamentary approval, the new arrangements will commence from 2 March 2015. There is some remaining work to complete with regard to the inclusion of amphetamines; this will be addressed in subsequent regulations.
Drug driving is a particularly complex issue and any policy decisions taken here will have to be informed by expert advice and public consultation. I will wish to determine arrangements that are most appropriate for Northern Ireland but, in moving forward, will want to review the work already undertaken in Britain and any developments in Ireland. I will want, for instance, to be clear that suitable equipment is available for testing; and that consideration of offenders by the courts proceeds as intended under the legislation.
In terms of timescale, and subject to Executive agreement, I would hope to issue a public consultation on proposals before the end of 2015. Given the amount and complexity of the work required, a Bill on this issue could not be taken forward before the next Assembly mandate.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036973%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209053","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209053"}},{"id":"209049","reference":"AQW 36969/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-03","answerBy":"2014-10-20","answered":"2014-10-13","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what engagement his Department have had with staff from the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, since 2009, as part of the Personal and Public Involvement Strategy.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Reform Act (NI) 2009 placed a statutory legislative requirement on HSC organisations to involve and consult the population on the planning, delivery and evaluation of the services they provide. In particular, they were required to prepare a consultation scheme setting out how they would this and submit it to the Department for approval. The Department engaged with the Northern Trust in the development of its Personal and Public Involvement (PPI) Consultation scheme.\n\nThe Public Health Agency has responsibility for leading implementation of PPI policy across the HSC. This responsibility is taken forward through the Regional PPI Forum, which includes representation from all HSC organisations, the Department, as well as community and voluntary sector representatives, service users and carers.\n\nThe Northern HSC Trust and the Department engage on a regular basis at the Regional PPI Forum.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Reform Act (NI) 2009 placed a statutory legislative requirement on HSC organisations to involve and consult the population on the planning, delivery and evaluation of the services they provide. In particular, they were required to prepare a consultation scheme setting out how they would this and submit it to the Department for approval. The Department engaged with the Northern Trust in the development of its Personal and Public Involvement (PPI) Consultation scheme.
The Public Health Agency has responsibility for leading implementation of PPI policy across the HSC. This responsibility is taken forward through the Regional PPI Forum, which includes representation from all HSC organisations, the Department, as well as community and voluntary sector representatives, service users and carers.
The Northern HSC Trust and the Department engage on a regular basis at the Regional PPI Forum.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036969%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=209049","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=209049"}},{"id":"208904","reference":"AQW 36900/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-02","answerBy":"2014-10-17","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice, of the deaths under Coroner’s investigation within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust in the last five years, how many have been referred by the Office of the Attorney General for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"In the five year period up to 30 September 2014, the Office of the Attorney General for Northern Ireland did not refer any cases to the Coroner relating to deaths occurring within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.","answerHtml":"In the five year period up to 30 September 2014, the Office of the Attorney General for Northern Ireland did not refer any cases to the Coroner relating to deaths occurring within the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036900%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208904","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208904"}},{"id":"208903","reference":"AQW 36899/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-02","answerBy":"2014-10-17","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail (i) the stakeholders identified; (ii) the number of responses received; and (iii) a breakdown of the nature of responses during the consultation period leading up to the merger of Coleraine High and Coleraine Institution and increased enrolment at Coleraine College.","answerText":"A statutory Development Proposal (DP) is required where a significant change to a school, such as an amalgamation, is proposed. The DP process is contained in Article 14 of the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986.\n\nPrior to the publication of a DP, the statutory process requires the proposer to consult with the Board of Governors, staff and parents of pupils at the school or schools concerned. In the case of the Coleraine schools, the North Eastern Education and Library Board is the proposer of the DPs for the controlled schools – Coleraine High and Coleraine College – while the Trustees of Coleraine AI, a voluntary school, are the proposer for its DP. The Board is additionally responsible for consulting any other school which would, in its opinion, be affected by the proposal.\n\nYou may wish to contact the North Eastern Board and Coleraine AI in respect of their pre-publication consultations.\n\nThe Department’s role in the process commences once a DP is published. The publication of the DP initiates a two-month period during which objections and comments can be sent directly to the Department. With regard to Development Proposals 288, 289 and 290 for the amalgamation of Coleraine Academical Institution and Coleraine High School, no comments were received during the two-month period.\n\nYou may wish to note that my decision on each DP and the documentation on which I based that decision are available on the Department of Education’s website: http://www.deni.gov.uk/index/schools-and-infrastructure-2/area-planning/14-schools_estate_devprop_pg.htm.","answerHtml":"A statutory Development Proposal (DP) is required where a significant change to a school, such as an amalgamation, is proposed. The DP process is contained in Article 14 of the Education and Libraries (NI) Order 1986.
Prior to the publication of a DP, the statutory process requires the proposer to consult with the Board of Governors, staff and parents of pupils at the school or schools concerned. In the case of the Coleraine schools, the North Eastern Education and Library Board is the proposer of the DPs for the controlled schools – Coleraine High and Coleraine College – while the Trustees of Coleraine AI, a voluntary school, are the proposer for its DP. The Board is additionally responsible for consulting any other school which would, in its opinion, be affected by the proposal.
You may wish to contact the North Eastern Board and Coleraine AI in respect of their pre-publication consultations.
The Department’s role in the process commences once a DP is published. The publication of the DP initiates a two-month period during which objections and comments can be sent directly to the Department. With regard to Development Proposals 288, 289 and 290 for the amalgamation of Coleraine Academical Institution and Coleraine High School, no comments were received during the two-month period.
You may wish to note that my decision on each DP and the documentation on which I based that decision are available on the Department of Education’s website: http://www.deni.gov.uk/index/schools-and-infrastructure-2/area-planning/14-schools_estate_devprop_pg.htm.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036899%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208903","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208903"}},{"id":"208902","reference":"AQW 36898/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-02","answerBy":"2014-10-17","answered":"2014-10-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail the total number of deaths under Coroner’s investigation in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"In the five year period to 30 September 2014, 1,043 deaths were reported to the Coroner where the death occurred within the area of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. A breakdown is provided below:\n\nPeriod\tNumber of Deaths Reported\n1.10.09 - 30.09.10\t184\n1.10.10 - 30.09.11\t152\n1.10.11 - 30.09.12\t211\n1.10.12 - 30.09.13\t248\n1.10.13 - 30.09.14\t248\nTotal deaths Reported\t1,043","answerHtml":"In the five year period to 30 September 2014, 1,043 deaths were reported to the Coroner where the death occurred within the area of the Northern Health and Social Care Trust. A breakdown is provided below:
| Period | Number of Deaths Reported |
| 1.10.09 - 30.09.10 | 184 |
| 1.10.10 - 30.09.11 | 152 |
| 1.10.11 - 30.09.12 | 211 |
| 1.10.12 - 30.09.13 | 248 |
| 1.10.13 - 30.09.14 | 248 |
| Total deaths Reported | 1,043 |
On 24 September 2014 I approved the Development Proposals published on 7 May 2014 by North Eastern Education & Library Board (NEELB), to facilitate the amalgamation of Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution, whilst increasing enrolment at Coleraine College to 900 pupils with effect from 1 September 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter.
My Department will fund the works necessary to allow the amalgamation of Coleraine High School and Coleraine Academical Institution on one site and will give consideration, in conjunction with the school authorities, to the works necessary to facilitate the amalgamation.
However any proposal for a new build for the amalgamated school would be considered along with other projects put forward in advance of any future announcement being made.
I can advise that planning of a programme of minor works for Coleraine Academical Institution is currently underway. Details are as follows:
A scheme to provide disabled access at 3 locations in the school, including a revamp of the main entrance area will be taken forward at an estimated cost of £9975 in the current financial year.
Blacktop surfacing and associated works at various locations throughout the school complex will proceed in the near future at an estimated cost of £77,500.
Replacement windows in blocks 1-3 and 8-10 inclusive is expected to be carried out in this financial year at an estimated cost of £292,000 .
In addition further works are anticipated during the 2015/16 financial year; a number of schemes are currently being scoped by NEELB for replacement of war memorial changing rooms, refurbishment of gym changing rooms and replacement of non-compliant fire and access doors.
Coleraine Academical Institution also has a current scheme under the Schools Enhancement Programme (SEP) to address essential works relating to significant accommodation inadequacies and substandard accommodation. The work consists of partial refurbishment involving rewiring, refurbishment of heating distribution, M & E Services and building upgrade. This scheme is at an early stage in the design process and relates to the existing school site and not any proposed new build.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036897%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208901","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208901"}},{"id":"208900","reference":"AQW 36896/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-02","answerBy":"2014-10-08","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the expected pupil intake at Coleraine High School for the 2015 academic year.","answerText":"A Development Proposal was approved on 26 September 2014 for the amalgamation of Coleraine Academical Institution and Coleraine High School as a new voluntary grammar school to be established from 1 September 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter. As a result of this, the intended admission number for the new school for the 2015/16 academic year is 150 pupils.","answerHtml":"A Development Proposal was approved on 26 September 2014 for the amalgamation of Coleraine Academical Institution and Coleraine High School as a new voluntary grammar school to be established from 1 September 2015 or as soon as possible thereafter. As a result of this, the intended admission number for the new school for the 2015/16 academic year is 150 pupils.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036896%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208900","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208900"}},{"id":"208657","reference":"AQW 36823/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-01","answerBy":"2014-10-16","answered":"2015-11-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the proposed age legislation, including timescale, which will include provision for goods, facilities and services and protect against discrimination on the grounds of age.","answerText":"Public consultation on policy proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The responses received during the consultation period are currently being analysed.\n\nWe will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.","answerHtml":"Public consultation on policy proposals to extend age discrimination legislation to the provision of goods, facilities and services closed on 8 October 2015. The responses received during the consultation period are currently being analysed.
We will then consider the options available to us for bringing this legislation before the Assembly.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036823%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208657","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208657"}},{"id":"208656","reference":"AQW 36822/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-01","answerBy":"2014-10-16","answered":"2014-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning what steps his Department has taken to advertise further and higher education as an accessible and viable option for young people who are Not in Education, Employment or Training.","answerText":"My Department has a keen interest in promoting participation for all young people into education, including those who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), and actively promotes further and higher education through the ‘Skills to Succeed’ communications campaign, which includes strands on Essential Skills, Apprenticeships, Training for Success, Foundation Degrees and ‘Reach Higher’ which encourages widening participation in higher education – also referred to below.\n\nIn addition, my Department’s Careers Service supports all 16 and 17 years olds who are NEET. Careers advisers currently work with these individuals to ensure they receive information, advice and guidance tailored specifically to their individual needs. This includes advice on a range of options including provision offered within both further and higher education.\n\nFurther education colleges currently offer an extensive range of courses as part of their curriculum provision from non-accredited, beginner courses, up to and including Level 5 provision. These courses are marketed proactively by colleges using their websites and prospectuses and by the active use of a variety of advertising opportunities through local press publications and also through social media. As part of their widening access and participation plans, colleges also provide community information events which are targeted at under-represented groups including young people in NEET situations.\n\nIn addition, where colleges are delivering projects under the Collaboration Innovation Fund, the European Social Fund or the Department for Social Development’s Neighbourhood Renewal, the young people participating are made aware of opportunities for progression to mainstream programmes in further and higher education.\n\nRegarding higher education, my Department launched its Reach Higher advertising campaign in early 2014, running a series of advertisements across a variety of outlets including television, radio and adshels/billboards. This campaign was intended to increase awareness of the potential value, accessibility and benefits of higher education to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.\n\nIn addition, the Department has also been working closely with all higher education institutions to promote Foundation Degrees. This promotion campaign started in 2013 and will continue to run throughout 2014/15, communicating the message that a Foundation Degree can equip any individual with a combination of technical skills, academic knowledge and other vital skills to help secure employment. There are a wide range of subjects on offer, and the flexibility to study part time makes Foundation Degrees more attractive and accessible.\n\nIn May 2012, the Northern Ireland Executive agreed a cross-departmental strategy specifically for those young people in the Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) category, the “Pathways to Success” strategy. ‘Pathways to Success’ has a particular focus on helping those young people who face barriers to participation, while also dovetailing with complementary proposals to tackle the wider problem of youth unemployment in the current challenging economic context.\n\nThe strategy, which is led and implemented by DEL, is made up of a three tier package aimed at:\n\npreventing young people missing opportunities for education and training, and/or becoming unemployed;\n\nhelping young people in the 16-18 age group, especially those facing barriers; and\n\nassisting unemployed young people aged 18-24 more generally.\n\nIn respect of further and higher education, the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy specifically states that: “a range of measures are in place in recognition that young people who enrol on further education provision may require encouragement, motivation and support to complete their studies”.\n\nIn addition to the programmes I have outlined above, there are three programmes that are directly focused on those young people facing barriers to employment, education and training. Firstly, the Collaboration and Innovation Fund, which is aimed at exploring new approaches to address the specific and general employability barriers faced by those young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Funding of over £9.2 million has been allocated to 24 organisations from the community, voluntary and educational sectors to deliver project activity between December 2012 and March 2015. To date, 3,910 young people have commenced project activities, and of the 2,488 leaving the programme 1,781 have completed activities and 1,296 have moved into positive outcomes of employment (363), education (306) and training (627).\n\nSecondly, the Community Family Support Programme, which focuses on the needs of the most disadvantaged families, to enable young people to re-engage with employment, education, or training. This programme has received further financial support from OFMDFM, and has been designated as a Signature Project under the Delivering Social Change initiative. Currently there are 118 participants on the programme who are aged 16 to18.\n\nFinally, the Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS), which is an initiative designed to help unemployed people in the community overcome those issues that may be preventing them from finding and keeping a job. During the period April 2013 to August 2014, LEMIS case loaded 4,092 individuals to the programme and 1,587 (38%) of these were young people aged 16-24 not engaged in education, employment or training. As a result, 502 (31%) young people moved into positive destinations, 229 (14%) commenced employment, 248 (15%) commenced training and 25 (1.5%) moved into education.","answerHtml":"My Department has a keen interest in promoting participation for all young people into education, including those who are Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET), and actively promotes further and higher education through the ‘Skills to Succeed’ communications campaign, which includes strands on Essential Skills, Apprenticeships, Training for Success, Foundation Degrees and ‘Reach Higher’ which encourages widening participation in higher education – also referred to below.
In addition, my Department’s Careers Service supports all 16 and 17 years olds who are NEET. Careers advisers currently work with these individuals to ensure they receive information, advice and guidance tailored specifically to their individual needs. This includes advice on a range of options including provision offered within both further and higher education.
Further education colleges currently offer an extensive range of courses as part of their curriculum provision from non-accredited, beginner courses, up to and including Level 5 provision. These courses are marketed proactively by colleges using their websites and prospectuses and by the active use of a variety of advertising opportunities through local press publications and also through social media. As part of their widening access and participation plans, colleges also provide community information events which are targeted at under-represented groups including young people in NEET situations.
In addition, where colleges are delivering projects under the Collaboration Innovation Fund, the European Social Fund or the Department for Social Development’s Neighbourhood Renewal, the young people participating are made aware of opportunities for progression to mainstream programmes in further and higher education.
Regarding higher education, my Department launched its Reach Higher advertising campaign in early 2014, running a series of advertisements across a variety of outlets including television, radio and adshels/billboards. This campaign was intended to increase awareness of the potential value, accessibility and benefits of higher education to young people from disadvantaged backgrounds.
In addition, the Department has also been working closely with all higher education institutions to promote Foundation Degrees. This promotion campaign started in 2013 and will continue to run throughout 2014/15, communicating the message that a Foundation Degree can equip any individual with a combination of technical skills, academic knowledge and other vital skills to help secure employment. There are a wide range of subjects on offer, and the flexibility to study part time makes Foundation Degrees more attractive and accessible.
In May 2012, the Northern Ireland Executive agreed a cross-departmental strategy specifically for those young people in the Not in Education, Employment or Training (NEET) category, the “Pathways to Success” strategy. ‘Pathways to Success’ has a particular focus on helping those young people who face barriers to participation, while also dovetailing with complementary proposals to tackle the wider problem of youth unemployment in the current challenging economic context.
The strategy, which is led and implemented by DEL, is made up of a three tier package aimed at:
preventing young people missing opportunities for education and training, and/or becoming unemployed;
helping young people in the 16-18 age group, especially those facing barriers; and
assisting unemployed young people aged 18-24 more generally.
In respect of further and higher education, the ‘Pathways to Success’ strategy specifically states that: “a range of measures are in place in recognition that young people who enrol on further education provision may require encouragement, motivation and support to complete their studies”.
In addition to the programmes I have outlined above, there are three programmes that are directly focused on those young people facing barriers to employment, education and training. Firstly, the Collaboration and Innovation Fund, which is aimed at exploring new approaches to address the specific and general employability barriers faced by those young people aged 16 to 24 who are not in education, employment or training (NEET). Funding of over £9.2 million has been allocated to 24 organisations from the community, voluntary and educational sectors to deliver project activity between December 2012 and March 2015. To date, 3,910 young people have commenced project activities, and of the 2,488 leaving the programme 1,781 have completed activities and 1,296 have moved into positive outcomes of employment (363), education (306) and training (627).
Secondly, the Community Family Support Programme, which focuses on the needs of the most disadvantaged families, to enable young people to re-engage with employment, education, or training. This programme has received further financial support from OFMDFM, and has been designated as a Signature Project under the Delivering Social Change initiative. Currently there are 118 participants on the programme who are aged 16 to18.
Finally, the Local Employment Intermediary Service (LEMIS), which is an initiative designed to help unemployed people in the community overcome those issues that may be preventing them from finding and keeping a job. During the period April 2013 to August 2014, LEMIS case loaded 4,092 individuals to the programme and 1,587 (38%) of these were young people aged 16-24 not engaged in education, employment or training. As a result, 502 (31%) young people moved into positive destinations, 229 (14%) commenced employment, 248 (15%) commenced training and 25 (1.5%) moved into education.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036822%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208656","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208656"}},{"id":"208655","reference":"AQW 36821/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-01","answerBy":"2014-10-16","answered":"2014-10-20","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department is working with the higher and further education institutions and other stakeholders to implement an effective process for the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning.","answerText":"My Department is committed to the principle that higher education, and Foundation Degrees in particular, are open to all those who have the ability to benefit from higher education. To help bring this about, we wish to encourage more people, who may have less in the way of formal qualifications, to consider applying for places in higher education on the basis of accredited prior experiential learning.\n\nTo this end, in 2010, my Department convened a working group with membership comprised of representatives from; the six further education colleges, Queen’s University, University of Ulster, Open University, Foundation Degree Forward, the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, and the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.\n\nIn 2011, the group produced the University and College Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning Guidelines that were endorsed by the whole sector and that draw upon good practice within the sector and across the UK. Implementation of the guidelines is being reviewed as part of Access to Success, my Department’s widening participation strategy for higher education.\n\nIn addition, upskilling the existing workforce is a key element of the Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland. It is in this context that my Department commissioned independent research which examined the feasibility and desire to accredit th` existing skills of experienced workers. At a macro level, the research found a range of issues likely to affect the demand for this programme and ultimately the desire from employers to accredit the existing skills of their workers. Following a value for money assessment, it was considered unfeasible to undertake a large scale national accreditation programme to recognise the prior learning of individuals.\n\nAt a sectoral level, my Department, in conjunction with the Construction Industry Training Board Northern Ireland, has undertaken a pilot project to examine the capacity to ‘qualify the existing workforce’ within the construction industry. The pilot exceeded its target, with 500 unqualified construction workers gaining an NVQ Level 2 qualification. My Department has committed to a second phase of the project which aims to qualify a further 1,000 workers to NVQ Level 2 over the next two years.","answerHtml":"My Department is committed to the principle that higher education, and Foundation Degrees in particular, are open to all those who have the ability to benefit from higher education. To help bring this about, we wish to encourage more people, who may have less in the way of formal qualifications, to consider applying for places in higher education on the basis of accredited prior experiential learning.
To this end, in 2010, my Department convened a working group with membership comprised of representatives from; the six further education colleges, Queen’s University, University of Ulster, Open University, Foundation Degree Forward, the Alliance of Sector Skills Councils, and the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education.
In 2011, the group produced the University and College Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning Guidelines that were endorsed by the whole sector and that draw upon good practice within the sector and across the UK. Implementation of the guidelines is being reviewed as part of Access to Success, my Department’s widening participation strategy for higher education.
In addition, upskilling the existing workforce is a key element of the Skills Strategy for Northern Ireland. It is in this context that my Department commissioned independent research which examined the feasibility and desire to accredit th` existing skills of experienced workers. At a macro level, the research found a range of issues likely to affect the demand for this programme and ultimately the desire from employers to accredit the existing skills of their workers. Following a value for money assessment, it was considered unfeasible to undertake a large scale national accreditation programme to recognise the prior learning of individuals.
At a sectoral level, my Department, in conjunction with the Construction Industry Training Board Northern Ireland, has undertaken a pilot project to examine the capacity to ‘qualify the existing workforce’ within the construction industry. The pilot exceeded its target, with 500 unqualified construction workers gaining an NVQ Level 2 qualification. My Department has committed to a second phase of the project which aims to qualify a further 1,000 workers to NVQ Level 2 over the next two years.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036821%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208655","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208655"}},{"id":"208654","reference":"AQW 36820/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-01","answerBy":"2014-10-16","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education how his Department identifies underdeveloped social, emotional, communication and language skills of young children; and to detail the mechanisms in place to monitor progress in these areas.","answerText":"For young children in DE funded early years settings, assessment of children’s learning is based on day-to-day observations of, and interactions with, children in a range of situations. Potential barriers to learning such as under developed social, emotional, communication or language skills are identified through careful observation, recording of responses to activities, and through close liaison with other professionals. It may be necessary to draw up individual plans to meet a child’s needs or to identify appropriate support. I recently announced nearly £200,000 additional funding specifically to help eligible non-statutory pre-school settings to identify and address underdeveloped social, emotional, communication and language skills of young children in line with the Department’s commitment set out in ‘Learning to Learn – A Framework for Early Years Education and Learning’.\n\nThe statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with both schools, and the Education and Library Boards which are responsible under special education legislation for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN in their areas.\n\nA range of tools are used to monitor progress in these areas both for young children generally and for children with SEN.","answerHtml":"For young children in DE funded early years settings, assessment of children’s learning is based on day-to-day observations of, and interactions with, children in a range of situations. Potential barriers to learning such as under developed social, emotional, communication or language skills are identified through careful observation, recording of responses to activities, and through close liaison with other professionals. It may be necessary to draw up individual plans to meet a child’s needs or to identify appropriate support. I recently announced nearly £200,000 additional funding specifically to help eligible non-statutory pre-school settings to identify and address underdeveloped social, emotional, communication and language skills of young children in line with the Department’s commitment set out in ‘Learning to Learn – A Framework for Early Years Education and Learning’.
The statutory responsibility for securing provision for pupils with Special Educational Needs (SEN) rests with both schools, and the Education and Library Boards which are responsible under special education legislation for identifying, assessing and, in appropriate cases, making provision for children with SEN in their areas.
A range of tools are used to monitor progress in these areas both for young children generally and for children with SEN.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036820%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208654","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208654"}},{"id":"208653","reference":"AQW 36819/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-10-01","answerBy":"2014-10-16","answered":"2014-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for their Department's definition of an 'older person'.","answerText":"The Department is currently in the process of finalising its Active Ageing Strategy, which was subject to public consultation earlier this year. For the purposes of the Strategy, an older person is defined on the basis set out in the Commissioner for Older People Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.\n\nThe Act defines an older person to be a person aged 60 or over; however, in particular circumstances, a person aged 50 or over can also be categorised as an older person.","answerHtml":"The Department is currently in the process of finalising its Active Ageing Strategy, which was subject to public consultation earlier this year. For the purposes of the Strategy, an older person is defined on the basis set out in the Commissioner for Older People Act (Northern Ireland) 2011.
The Act defines an older person to be a person aged 60 or over; however, in particular circumstances, a person aged 50 or over can also be categorised as an older person.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036819%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208653","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208653"}},{"id":"208358","reference":"AQW 36732/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-30","answerBy":"2014-10-15","answered":"2014-10-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail her Department’s role in the Ballymena Business Centre initiative to provide twenty arts and craft businesses five months free retail space in Ballymena town centre; and whether there are plans to encourage this initiative beyond the Ballymena area.","answerText":"The Ballymena Business Centre initiative has received funding from my Department’s Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF), which is administered by the Arts Council:\n\nFinance Year\tOrganization Name\tProgramme\tGrant Amount\tProject Description\n2014-2015\tBallymena Business Centre Ltd\tCreative Industries\t£20,000\tCreative Incubation Space - Ballymena Business Centre will provide 2000 sq. ft. of retail and exhibition space in Ballymena town centre, free trading for a period of months inclusive of rent, rates and service charge.\n\nWith regard to plans to encourage this initiative beyond the Ballymena area, an evaluation of project activities and supported outcomes is a requirement for all grant recipients. The outcomes and learning from this project will be captured and the Arts Council and other sectoral organisations, such as Craft NI, can use this insight to inform future initiatives elsewhere.","answerHtml":"The Ballymena Business Centre initiative has received funding from my Department’s Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF), which is administered by the Arts Council:
| Finance Year | Organization Name | Programme | Grant Amount | Project Description |
| 2014-2015 | Ballymena Business Centre Ltd | Creative Industries | £20,000 | Creative Incubation Space - Ballymena Business Centre will provide 2000 sq. ft. of retail and exhibition space in Ballymena town centre, free trading for a period of months inclusive of rent, rates and service charge. |
With regard to plans to encourage this initiative beyond the Ballymena area, an evaluation of project activities and supported outcomes is a requirement for all grant recipients. The outcomes and learning from this project will be captured and the Arts Council and other sectoral organisations, such as Craft NI, can use this insight to inform future initiatives elsewhere.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036732%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208358","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208358"}},{"id":"208357","reference":"AQW 36731/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-30","answerBy":"2014-10-15","answered":"2014-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to outline the provisional of facilities for the development of sport at an elite level; and whether there are plans to expand the provision of these resources.","answerText":"My strategy for sport, Sport Matters, has a number of specific targets dedicated to improving the sporting infrastructure in the north of Ireland. One of these targets (PL23) is for the provision of a minimum of ten new or upgraded facilities to support athlete development in Olympic/Paralympic sports. An associated Sport Matters Action Plan and annual Progress Reports provide detail on the actions being taken and the progress of delivery against these targets. The most recent report shows that this target has been met with 21 sports facilities being provided that are considered to contribute to this target. Examples of facilities provided include the 50 metre pool in North Down and new or upgraded facilities for boxing, cycling, basketball, hockey and athletics. Facilities were also upgraded for rowing and disabled equine sports in the Coleraine area.\n\nIn addition, the Sports Institute for NI (SINI) and a number of the satellite Performance Development Centres are recognised for making a major contribution to individual athlete development.\n\nSport NI is also currently developing a capital programme which aims to invest £17.5 million Lottery funding in sporting facilities over a five year period. This programme will seek to integrate the facility needs of community participants and performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment.","answerHtml":"My strategy for sport, Sport Matters, has a number of specific targets dedicated to improving the sporting infrastructure in the north of Ireland. One of these targets (PL23) is for the provision of a minimum of ten new or upgraded facilities to support athlete development in Olympic/Paralympic sports. An associated Sport Matters Action Plan and annual Progress Reports provide detail on the actions being taken and the progress of delivery against these targets. The most recent report shows that this target has been met with 21 sports facilities being provided that are considered to contribute to this target. Examples of facilities provided include the 50 metre pool in North Down and new or upgraded facilities for boxing, cycling, basketball, hockey and athletics. Facilities were also upgraded for rowing and disabled equine sports in the Coleraine area.
In addition, the Sports Institute for NI (SINI) and a number of the satellite Performance Development Centres are recognised for making a major contribution to individual athlete development.
Sport NI is also currently developing a capital programme which aims to invest £17.5 million Lottery funding in sporting facilities over a five year period. This programme will seek to integrate the facility needs of community participants and performance athletes within the same multi-sport environment.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036731%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208357","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208357"}},{"id":"208351","reference":"AQW 36730/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-30","answerBy":"2014-10-15","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to outline the steps her Department has taken to provide greater access to support and services which will assist and encourage safe working on farms.","answerText":"Since May 2012 my Department has been working as a Partner of the Farm Safety Partnership to improve safety on our farms. The Partnership also includes representatives from the Health and Safety Executive for NI, Ulster Farmers Union, Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster, National Farmers Union Mutual and NIAPA.\n\nThe Partnership launched its second Action Plan on 7 April 2014. This Action Plan will cover the years 2014 to 2017.\n\nThe aim of this action plan is to influence future behaviour so that farmers, their families, and their employees are capable, motivated, and able to work safely to reduce accidents on farms. A number of interventions are contained in the action plan to achieve this aim. The interventions will cover the four areas of Information and Promotion of SAFE Working, Training and Education, Motivating Good Behaviour and Discouraging Poor Practice, and Support and Assistance.\n\nThe Action Plan has 17 key actions including the following:\n\nDevelop with the assistance of farmers a suite of Visual Safety Guides demonstrating safe working methods,\n\nContinue to Deliver and further develop a Farm Safety Awareness Programme,\n\nIdentify, develop and promote a suite of Accredited Farm Safety Training programmes,\n\nTo Develop and display a simple resource (Making it Safer) to allow farmers to risk assess their farms and identify simple solutions to manage risk,\n\nDevelop and deliver a Farm Safe Awareness Programme to farm Development Groups to encourage co-operation sharing and knowledge transfer between small groups of farmers,\n\nPromoting safety through Grants by implementing a system to ensure that safety is a key cross cutting component of Rural Development Programme grants,\n\nDevelop and implement an Advice & Support Scheme to provide a suite of easily accessible advice and support services to assist farmers to properly manage health and safety.\n\nA new web based Farm Safety tool called FarmSafeNet was launched recently by me. This was developed by the industry led Farm Safety Partnership. To date 323 businesses have successfully completed FarmSafeNet.\n\nIn addition my officials have been working closely with the HSENI to develop a Make it safer tool to be made available to all farmers. The aim of this tool is to provide farmers with an easy to use tool to help them identify the dangers on their farms and manage these ultimately leading to a safer environment in which they work.\n\nMy Department also intends to include Farm Safety as a feature of the new Business Improvement Scheme under the Rural Development programme.\n\nAs the partnership works through its action plan my Department will continue to support the actions taken to ensure that farmers have access to tools and material that will assist them in making their farms a safer place to work and live.","answerHtml":"Since May 2012 my Department has been working as a Partner of the Farm Safety Partnership to improve safety on our farms. The Partnership also includes representatives from the Health and Safety Executive for NI, Ulster Farmers Union, Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster, National Farmers Union Mutual and NIAPA.
The Partnership launched its second Action Plan on 7 April 2014. This Action Plan will cover the years 2014 to 2017.
The aim of this action plan is to influence future behaviour so that farmers, their families, and their employees are capable, motivated, and able to work safely to reduce accidents on farms. A number of interventions are contained in the action plan to achieve this aim. The interventions will cover the four areas of Information and Promotion of SAFE Working, Training and Education, Motivating Good Behaviour and Discouraging Poor Practice, and Support and Assistance.
The Action Plan has 17 key actions including the following:
Develop with the assistance of farmers a suite of Visual Safety Guides demonstrating safe working methods,
Continue to Deliver and further develop a Farm Safety Awareness Programme,
Identify, develop and promote a suite of Accredited Farm Safety Training programmes,
To Develop and display a simple resource (Making it Safer) to allow farmers to risk assess their farms and identify simple solutions to manage risk,
Develop and deliver a Farm Safe Awareness Programme to farm Development Groups to encourage co-operation sharing and knowledge transfer between small groups of farmers,
Promoting safety through Grants by implementing a system to ensure that safety is a key cross cutting component of Rural Development Programme grants,
Develop and implement an Advice & Support Scheme to provide a suite of easily accessible advice and support services to assist farmers to properly manage health and safety.
A new web based Farm Safety tool called FarmSafeNet was launched recently by me. This was developed by the industry led Farm Safety Partnership. To date 323 businesses have successfully completed FarmSafeNet.
In addition my officials have been working closely with the HSENI to develop a Make it safer tool to be made available to all farmers. The aim of this tool is to provide farmers with an easy to use tool to help them identify the dangers on their farms and manage these ultimately leading to a safer environment in which they work.
My Department also intends to include Farm Safety as a feature of the new Business Improvement Scheme under the Rural Development programme.
As the partnership works through its action plan my Department will continue to support the actions taken to ensure that farmers have access to tools and material that will assist them in making their farms a safer place to work and live.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036730%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208351","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208351"}},{"id":"208350","reference":"AQW 36729/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-30","answerBy":"2014-10-15","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for her assessment of the cuts to funding for local public services which has led to Libraries NI making recent staff cuts; and what reassurances she can give to staff that her Department is working to mitigate the effects of funding cuts.","answerText":"All service areas across my Department and its Arms Length Bodies have been affected by the recently announced budget reductions and are obliged to plan for savings of up to 4.4% in 2014/15. To meet this target, Libraries NI is required to prepare a revised budget to enable it to save £1.4m of its 2014/15 opening budget of £34.4m.\n\nDecisions on how Libraries NI budget reductions are managed at local level across the Public Library Estate is a matter, in the first instance, for the Authority's Board and Senior Management Team. While the need to make these savings has the potential to impact on local public services, Libraries NI remains committed to doing all in its power to mitigate the effects and to quickly communicate these changes to its staff. To this end, work is already under way to try to reorganise permanent staff time tables. In addition, posts that were, until now, covered on a temporary basis by recently released recruitment agency staff will remain vacant until they can again be filled. My Department also stands ready to assist Libraries NI as it seeks to identify areas where savings might potentially be achieved through efficiencies.","answerHtml":"All service areas across my Department and its Arms Length Bodies have been affected by the recently announced budget reductions and are obliged to plan for savings of up to 4.4% in 2014/15. To meet this target, Libraries NI is required to prepare a revised budget to enable it to save £1.4m of its 2014/15 opening budget of £34.4m.
Decisions on how Libraries NI budget reductions are managed at local level across the Public Library Estate is a matter, in the first instance, for the Authority's Board and Senior Management Team. While the need to make these savings has the potential to impact on local public services, Libraries NI remains committed to doing all in its power to mitigate the effects and to quickly communicate these changes to its staff. To this end, work is already under way to try to reorganise permanent staff time tables. In addition, posts that were, until now, covered on a temporary basis by recently released recruitment agency staff will remain vacant until they can again be filled. My Department also stands ready to assist Libraries NI as it seeks to identify areas where savings might potentially be achieved through efficiencies.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036729%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208350","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208350"}},{"id":"208349","reference":"AQW 36728/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-30","answerBy":"2014-10-15","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what steps her Department has taken to encourage the wider community to promote and facilitate farm safety.","answerText":"Since May 2012 my Department has been working as a Partner of the Farm Safety Partnership to improve safety on our farms. The Partnership also includes representatives from the Health and Safety Executive for NI, Ulster Farmers Union, Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster, National Farmers Union Mutual and NIAPA.\n\nThe Partnership launched its second Action Plan on 7 April 2014. This Action Plan will cover the years 2014 to 2017.\n\nThe aim of this action plan is to influence future behaviour so that farmers, their families, and their employees are capable, motivated, and able to work safely to reduce accidents on farms. A number of interventions are contained in the action plan to achieve this aim. The interventions will cover the four areas of Information and Promotion of SAFE Working, Training and Education, Motivating Good Behaviour and Discouraging Poor Practice, and Support and Assistance.\n\nThe Action Plan has 17 key actions including the following:\n\nContinue to expand upon the farm safe Information and Promotion Programme through advertising, media, events and other communication channels,\n\nDeliver a series of seasonally relevant Farm Safety Spotlight Weeks to capitalise on existing one to many contact opportunities,\n\nIdentify and utilise Farm Safety Champions to promote and encourage good farm safety management,\n\nDevelop and implement a Farm Safety Awards Scheme to recognise excellence, good practice and innovation,\n\nDevelop an Affiliate Scheme to encourage businesses and organisation to support the aims of the Farm Safety Partnership in the north of Ireland.","answerHtml":"Since May 2012 my Department has been working as a Partner of the Farm Safety Partnership to improve safety on our farms. The Partnership also includes representatives from the Health and Safety Executive for NI, Ulster Farmers Union, Young Farmers Clubs of Ulster, National Farmers Union Mutual and NIAPA.
The Partnership launched its second Action Plan on 7 April 2014. This Action Plan will cover the years 2014 to 2017.
The aim of this action plan is to influence future behaviour so that farmers, their families, and their employees are capable, motivated, and able to work safely to reduce accidents on farms. A number of interventions are contained in the action plan to achieve this aim. The interventions will cover the four areas of Information and Promotion of SAFE Working, Training and Education, Motivating Good Behaviour and Discouraging Poor Practice, and Support and Assistance.
The Action Plan has 17 key actions including the following:
Continue to expand upon the farm safe Information and Promotion Programme through advertising, media, events and other communication channels,
Deliver a series of seasonally relevant Farm Safety Spotlight Weeks to capitalise on existing one to many contact opportunities,
Identify and utilise Farm Safety Champions to promote and encourage good farm safety management,
Develop and implement a Farm Safety Awards Scheme to recognise excellence, good practice and innovation,
Develop an Affiliate Scheme to encourage businesses and organisation to support the aims of the Farm Safety Partnership in the north of Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036728%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208349","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208349"}},{"id":"208084","reference":"AQW 36616/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-29","answerBy":"2014-10-14","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on his Department’s targets linked to placement moves for young people who are in care; and to detail how these are monitored to ensure that they are being met so that young people in care are provided with as stable a living environment as possible","answerText":"Robust assessment of need, coupled with placement choice and stability are key to delivering improved outcomes for looked after children and young people. To underscore this, one of the key strategic priorities set out in the Department’s Commissioning Plan Direction for 2014/15 is to ‘ensure the most vulnerable in our society, including children and adults at risk of harm are looked after effectively across all our services’. To support this priority a target linked to placement stability has been set. The 14/15 target is to increase the number of children in care for 12 months or longer with no placement change to 85%, a higher target than set initially.\n\nTable 1 below sets out the percentage of children in care for 12 months or longer at September with no placement change in each of the last 5 years by Trust.\n\nHSC Trust\tChildren in care for 12 months or longer at 30 September with no placement change\n2008/09\t2009/10\t2010/11\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\nBelfast Trust\t79%\t83%\t84%\t84%\t78%\t-\nNorthern Trust\t78%\t78%\t78%\t74%\t76%\t-\nSouth Eastern Trust\t82%\t78%\t81%\t79%\t78%\t-\nSouthern Trust\t59%\t73%\t66%\t70%\t75%\t-\nWestern Trust\t83%\t83%\t82%\t85%\t79%\t-\nNorthern Ireland\t77%\t79%\t79%\t78%\t77%\t-\nTarget\t\t\t\t\t82%\t85%\n\nThe target is monitored by the Department’s Community Information Branch using a child level information return completed by all Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland. The return which is completed annually provides a range of data on looked after children in care continuously for 12 months or longer including placement changes during the year. The information collected from the return is published annually on the Department’s website in the statistical bulletin ‘Children in Care in Northern Ireland’. The 2013/14 statistical bulletin will be published in July 2015.","answerHtml":"Robust assessment of need, coupled with placement choice and stability are key to delivering improved outcomes for looked after children and young people. To underscore this, one of the key strategic priorities set out in the Department’s Commissioning Plan Direction for 2014/15 is to ‘ensure the most vulnerable in our society, including children and adults at risk of harm are looked after effectively across all our services’. To support this priority a target linked to placement stability has been set. The 14/15 target is to increase the number of children in care for 12 months or longer with no placement change to 85%, a higher target than set initially.
Table 1 below sets out the percentage of children in care for 12 months or longer at September with no placement change in each of the last 5 years by Trust.
| HSC Trust | Children in care for 12 months or longer at 30 September with no placement change | |||||
| 2008/09 | 2009/10 | 2010/11 | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | |
| Belfast Trust | 79% | 83% | 84% | 84% | 78% | - |
| Northern Trust | 78% | 78% | 78% | 74% | 76% | - |
| South Eastern Trust | 82% | 78% | 81% | 79% | 78% | - |
| Southern Trust | 59% | 73% | 66% | 70% | 75% | - |
| Western Trust | 83% | 83% | 82% | 85% | 79% | - |
| Northern Ireland | 77% | 79% | 79% | 78% | 77% | - |
| Target | 82% | 85% |
The target is monitored by the Department’s Community Information Branch using a child level information return completed by all Health and Social Care Trusts in Northern Ireland. The return which is completed annually provides a range of data on looked after children in care continuously for 12 months or longer including placement changes during the year. The information collected from the return is published annually on the Department’s website in the statistical bulletin ‘Children in Care in Northern Ireland’. The 2013/14 statistical bulletin will be published in July 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036616%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208084","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208084"}},{"id":"208083","reference":"AQW 36615/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-29","answerBy":"2014-10-14","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the effectiveness of mentoring schemes, such as the role of mentors working with Voice Of Young People In Care, in tackling issues among young people in care such as educational disengagement; and whether he will promote and increase similar schemes.","answerText":"The Health and Social Care Board has advised that it commissions an advocacy and mentoring service for looked after children from Voice of Young People in Care (VOYPIC) to support them in education, help them remain in education, or access an educational place. It also helps address social isolation, low self esteem and poor interpersonal skills.\n\nMentoring is one of a range of support services provided to looked after or care experienced young people. For example, there are a range of Trust initiatives already in place aimed at enhancing the educational outcomes of looked after children and young people. These include: the appointment of an independent visitor for children who do not have family contact or support; assistance from dedicated LAC Education Teams; input from LAC Therapeutic Services; and befriender support. Trusts may also have contracts in place for services to young people, which have a mentoring component.\n\nFor older children in care, there is a specific input from Employability Services which includes on site employment and work placement based mentors. Equally a range of training schemes and prevocational initiatives incorporate mentoring support as a means of assisting young people to engage in and sustain training programmes and assist their transition towards future career goals. Older adolescents from age 16 also have entitlement to a Personal Advisor, whose role is to provide advocacy, mentoring and support through to age 21 in line with their care/pathway plan.","answerHtml":"The Health and Social Care Board has advised that it commissions an advocacy and mentoring service for looked after children from Voice of Young People in Care (VOYPIC) to support them in education, help them remain in education, or access an educational place. It also helps address social isolation, low self esteem and poor interpersonal skills.
Mentoring is one of a range of support services provided to looked after or care experienced young people. For example, there are a range of Trust initiatives already in place aimed at enhancing the educational outcomes of looked after children and young people. These include: the appointment of an independent visitor for children who do not have family contact or support; assistance from dedicated LAC Education Teams; input from LAC Therapeutic Services; and befriender support. Trusts may also have contracts in place for services to young people, which have a mentoring component.
For older children in care, there is a specific input from Employability Services which includes on site employment and work placement based mentors. Equally a range of training schemes and prevocational initiatives incorporate mentoring support as a means of assisting young people to engage in and sustain training programmes and assist their transition towards future career goals. Older adolescents from age 16 also have entitlement to a Personal Advisor, whose role is to provide advocacy, mentoring and support through to age 21 in line with their care/pathway plan.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036615%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208083","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208083"}},{"id":"208081","reference":"AQW 36613/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-29","answerBy":"2014-10-14","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the current number of Social Enterprise Hubs which have been established as part of the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme.","answerText":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.\n\nThe Delivering Social Change framework represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across Executive departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground and helping to break the long term cycle of multi-generational poverty.\n\nIt is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits. Through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, eleven Social Enterprise Hubs have been established.\n\nThe Hubs are located in Derry/Londonderry, North Belfast, South Belfast, East Belfast, West Belfast, Lisburn, Downpatrick, Lurgan, Ballymena, Strabane and Enniskillen, spanning the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas.","answerHtml":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
The Delivering Social Change framework represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across Executive departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground and helping to break the long term cycle of multi-generational poverty.
It is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits. Through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, eleven Social Enterprise Hubs have been established.
The Hubs are located in Derry/Londonderry, North Belfast, South Belfast, East Belfast, West Belfast, Lisburn, Downpatrick, Lurgan, Ballymena, Strabane and Enniskillen, spanning the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036613%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208081","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208081"}},{"id":"208080","reference":"AQW 36612/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-29","answerBy":"2014-10-14","answered":"2014-12-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how social enterprises and entrepreneurs are being encouraged to make use of Social Enterprise Hubs to gain business advice and practical support.","answerText":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.\n\nThe Delivering Social Change framework represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across Executive departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground and helping to break the long term cycle of multi-generational poverty.\n\nIt is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits and through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, Social Enterprise Hubs are now operational across the nine Social Investment Fund (SIF) zone areas. Programme delivery is designed to encourage local social entrepreneurs and enterprises to gain access to and make use of the Hubs.\n\nNine Delivery Agents have been appointed in each of the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas to deliver a range of business support services to new incubating social enterprises in local communities throughout Northern Ireland. Each Hub contract is being managed by a Hub manager and delivery team with the relevant expertise to develop social enterprises. The support services being provided include ideas generation training, action planning, mentoring and business planning.\n\nThe Social Enterprise Hubs provide shop front retail space; hot-desking facilities; conference / meeting rooms; training suites; general workspace; and areas from where, depending on the business sector, social economy businesses can operate on a ‘test-trading’ basis.\n\nThe Delivery Agents are working with various community organisations through a structured community engagement process. The Agents are also working with a stakeholder group to ensure that Hub delivery is covered across the entire Social Investment Fund zone area.\n\nThe Programme is also being promoted to potential clients across Northern Ireland through various launch and social enterprise events, web and social media and press coverage.\n\nAs at 31 August 2014, the Social Enterprise Hubs have helped eight new enterprises begin to test-trade across Northern Ireland. These enterprises include craft collectives, a digital media company, musical therapy, addiction training and support service and a social farm.","answerHtml":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
The Delivering Social Change framework represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across Executive departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground and helping to break the long term cycle of multi-generational poverty.
It is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits and through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, Social Enterprise Hubs are now operational across the nine Social Investment Fund (SIF) zone areas. Programme delivery is designed to encourage local social entrepreneurs and enterprises to gain access to and make use of the Hubs.
Nine Delivery Agents have been appointed in each of the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas to deliver a range of business support services to new incubating social enterprises in local communities throughout Northern Ireland. Each Hub contract is being managed by a Hub manager and delivery team with the relevant expertise to develop social enterprises. The support services being provided include ideas generation training, action planning, mentoring and business planning.
The Social Enterprise Hubs provide shop front retail space; hot-desking facilities; conference / meeting rooms; training suites; general workspace; and areas from where, depending on the business sector, social economy businesses can operate on a ‘test-trading’ basis.
The Delivery Agents are working with various community organisations through a structured community engagement process. The Agents are also working with a stakeholder group to ensure that Hub delivery is covered across the entire Social Investment Fund zone area.
The Programme is also being promoted to potential clients across Northern Ireland through various launch and social enterprise events, web and social media and press coverage.
As at 31 August 2014, the Social Enterprise Hubs have helped eight new enterprises begin to test-trade across Northern Ireland. These enterprises include craft collectives, a digital media company, musical therapy, addiction training and support service and a social farm.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036612%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208080","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208080"}},{"id":"208079","reference":"AQW 36611/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-29","answerBy":"2014-10-14","answered":"2014-11-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister how the Executive is using local Social Enterprise Hubs, as part of the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, to actively encourage business start-up within local communities.","answerText":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.\n\nThe Delivering Social Change framework represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across Executive departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground and helping to break the long term cycle of multi-generational poverty.\n\nIt is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits and through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, Social Enterprise Hubs are now operational across the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas. Programme delivery is designed to encourage local social entrepreneurs and enterprises to gain access to and make use of the Hubs.\n\nNine Delivery Agents have been appointed in each of the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas to deliver a range of business support services to new incubating social enterprises in local communities throughout Northern Ireland. Each Hub contract is being managed by a Hub manager and delivery team with the relevant expertise to develop social enterprises.\n\nThe Delivery Agents are working with various community organisations through a structured community engagement process. The Agents are also working with a stakeholder group to ensure that Hub delivery is covered across the entire Social Investment Fund zone area.\n\nThe Programme is also being promoted to potential clients across Northern Ireland through various launch and social enterprise events, web and social media and press coverage.","answerHtml":"Accelerating Social Enterprise is part of the unique approach by the Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion.
The Delivering Social Change framework represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across Executive departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground and helping to break the long term cycle of multi-generational poverty.
It is about creating a new culture and focus on cross-cutting work to achieve social benefits and through the Accelerating Social Enterprise Signature Programme, Social Enterprise Hubs are now operational across the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas. Programme delivery is designed to encourage local social entrepreneurs and enterprises to gain access to and make use of the Hubs.
Nine Delivery Agents have been appointed in each of the nine Social Investment Fund zone areas to deliver a range of business support services to new incubating social enterprises in local communities throughout Northern Ireland. Each Hub contract is being managed by a Hub manager and delivery team with the relevant expertise to develop social enterprises.
The Delivery Agents are working with various community organisations through a structured community engagement process. The Agents are also working with a stakeholder group to ensure that Hub delivery is covered across the entire Social Investment Fund zone area.
The Programme is also being promoted to potential clients across Northern Ireland through various launch and social enterprise events, web and social media and press coverage.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036611%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=208079","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=208079"}},{"id":"207980","reference":"AQW 36546/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-26","answerBy":"2014-10-13","answered":"2014-10-09","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the cross-departmental strategies designed to increase communication with HEI, FEC and University students regarding the importance of innovation, in which her Department is involved.","answerText":"The Northern Ireland Executive’s recently published Innovation Strategy highlights the importance of increasing innovation across all sectors of the economy. The Innovation Strategy emphasises the important role that universities and further education colleges have to play in helping transform our economy into one that is truly knowledge based. My Department therefore works very closely with the Department for Employment and Learning and other stakeholders including the Universities, Colleges NI, and the Northern Ireland Science Park to reinforce the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship and identifying new ways of strengthening the culture of innovation across the education system.\n\nUnderpinning the Innovation Strategy is the need for much better collaboration and commercialisation of research so that we can drive innovation, productivity and growth. Through Invest NI, a range of programmes including the Proof of Concept, Innovation Vouchers and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, are in place to accelerate the commercialisation of new ideas and research.","answerHtml":"The Northern Ireland Executive’s recently published Innovation Strategy highlights the importance of increasing innovation across all sectors of the economy. The Innovation Strategy emphasises the important role that universities and further education colleges have to play in helping transform our economy into one that is truly knowledge based. My Department therefore works very closely with the Department for Employment and Learning and other stakeholders including the Universities, Colleges NI, and the Northern Ireland Science Park to reinforce the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship and identifying new ways of strengthening the culture of innovation across the education system.
Underpinning the Innovation Strategy is the need for much better collaboration and commercialisation of research so that we can drive innovation, productivity and growth. Through Invest NI, a range of programmes including the Proof of Concept, Innovation Vouchers and Knowledge Transfer Partnerships, are in place to accelerate the commercialisation of new ideas and research.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036546%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207980","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207980"}},{"id":"207979","reference":"AQW 36545/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-26","answerBy":"2014-10-13","answered":"2014-10-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on her Department’s plans to introduce and facilitate an Innovation Council.","answerText":"The Executive’s Innovation Strategy emphasises that improving Northern Ireland’s innovation performance will require long-term sustained leadership at the most senior levels in the private and public sectors. Building on best practice in other higher performing regions the Strategy commits to examine the feasibility of the establishment of a Northern Ireland Innovation Council chaired by the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment and including senior representatives of business, the public sector including local government, the third sector and academia.\n\nAs part of the implementation of the strategy my officials have commenced work on a detailed review scoping the role and operation of an Innovation Council. This work will include examining the roles of the Executive Sub-Committee on the Economy, the Economic Advisory Group (EAG) and MATRIX, in order to ensure an Innovation Council will complement existing structures and genuinely add value.\n\nA key element of the review will be to ensure that the council does not add another level of bureaucracy and governance. The review should be complete early in 2015 and its findings brought to the Executive Sub-Committee on the Economy as soon as it is completed.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Innovation Strategy emphasises that improving Northern Ireland’s innovation performance will require long-term sustained leadership at the most senior levels in the private and public sectors. Building on best practice in other higher performing regions the Strategy commits to examine the feasibility of the establishment of a Northern Ireland Innovation Council chaired by the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Investment and including senior representatives of business, the public sector including local government, the third sector and academia.
As part of the implementation of the strategy my officials have commenced work on a detailed review scoping the role and operation of an Innovation Council. This work will include examining the roles of the Executive Sub-Committee on the Economy, the Economic Advisory Group (EAG) and MATRIX, in order to ensure an Innovation Council will complement existing structures and genuinely add value.
A key element of the review will be to ensure that the council does not add another level of bureaucracy and governance. The review should be complete early in 2015 and its findings brought to the Executive Sub-Committee on the Economy as soon as it is completed.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036545%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207979","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207979"}},{"id":"207978","reference":"AQW 36544/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-26","answerBy":"2014-10-13","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many small and medium enterprises in East Londonderry have secured business opportunities through public sector procurement contracts, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Central Procurement Directorate monitors the level of participation and success of small and medium sized enterprises in public procurement contracts awarded by Centres of Procurement Expertise. However, this data cannot be filtered by geographical location.","answerHtml":"Central Procurement Directorate monitors the level of participation and success of small and medium sized enterprises in public procurement contracts awarded by Centres of Procurement Expertise. However, this data cannot be filtered by geographical location.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036544%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207978","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207978"}},{"id":"207977","reference":"AQW 36543/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-26","answerBy":"2014-10-13","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel how many social economy enterprises in East Londonderry have secured opportunities for growth through public sector procurement contracts, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Central Procurement Directorate monitors the level of participation and success of social economy enterprises in public procurement contracts awarded by Centres of Procurement Expertise. However, this data cannot be filtered by geographical location.","answerHtml":"Central Procurement Directorate monitors the level of participation and success of social economy enterprises in public procurement contracts awarded by Centres of Procurement Expertise. However, this data cannot be filtered by geographical location.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036543%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207977","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207977"}},{"id":"207976","reference":"AQW 36542/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-26","answerBy":"2014-10-13","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what steps are in place to encourage social entrepreneurship in the third sector.","answerText":"DETI has a central role in developing social economy policy, with responsibility for the community and voluntary sector lying with the Department for Social Development.\n\nDeveloping the social economy has long been a government priority and the Executive is well aware of the important contribution which this particular sector makes. This is why we have continually affirmed our commitment to the social economy and the broader Third Sector through measures to boost the strong entrepreneurial tradition which exists here, as seen in the NI Economic Strategy which seeks to promote the Social Economy and its contribution to economic growth.\n\nIn terms of current support for the social economy sector, my Department has been involved in a range of initiatives including:\n\nDETI funding of Social Enterprise NI, to design, manage and deliver a three year Social Economy Work Programme (SEWP) with the objective of identifying and implementing a programme of initiatives to enable the continued growth of a sustainable social economy sector.\n\nInvest Northern Ireland provides support to new and existing social enterprises through the following programmes:\n\nInvest Northern Ireland’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) which focuses on supporting new social economy businesses with the potential to grow, helping them to build the skills and capabilities to make an impact on the local economy. The programme offers support at both the business idea and business planning stage. In 2013/14 the SEP supported 55 new social enterprise start ups.\n\nInvest Northern Ireland’s Jobs Fund was one of a range of measures that Invest NI put in place in response to the economic downturn. Jobs Fund includes two measures to support social enterprises, recognising the potential that the social economy has to develop employment opportunities, especially for those most remote from the labour market.\n\nSocial Enterprise Employment Grant – in 2013/14 109 new jobs were created with employment grant support;\n\nThe Social Enterprise Franchise Programme provided support to social enterprises interested in franchisor/franchisee business models.\n\nThe establishment of 11 Social Enterprise Hubs (SEHs) as one of the six signature projects being taken forward under OFMDFM’s Delivering Social Change initiative (DSC). This provides an operational hub in each of the Social Investment Fund areas to provide advice, help generate ideas and support the development of new social enterprise projects.","answerHtml":"DETI has a central role in developing social economy policy, with responsibility for the community and voluntary sector lying with the Department for Social Development.
Developing the social economy has long been a government priority and the Executive is well aware of the important contribution which this particular sector makes. This is why we have continually affirmed our commitment to the social economy and the broader Third Sector through measures to boost the strong entrepreneurial tradition which exists here, as seen in the NI Economic Strategy which seeks to promote the Social Economy and its contribution to economic growth.
In terms of current support for the social economy sector, my Department has been involved in a range of initiatives including:
DETI funding of Social Enterprise NI, to design, manage and deliver a three year Social Economy Work Programme (SEWP) with the objective of identifying and implementing a programme of initiatives to enable the continued growth of a sustainable social economy sector.
Invest Northern Ireland provides support to new and existing social enterprises through the following programmes:
Invest Northern Ireland’s Social Entrepreneurship Programme (SEP) which focuses on supporting new social economy businesses with the potential to grow, helping them to build the skills and capabilities to make an impact on the local economy. The programme offers support at both the business idea and business planning stage. In 2013/14 the SEP supported 55 new social enterprise start ups.
Invest Northern Ireland’s Jobs Fund was one of a range of measures that Invest NI put in place in response to the economic downturn. Jobs Fund includes two measures to support social enterprises, recognising the potential that the social economy has to develop employment opportunities, especially for those most remote from the labour market.
Social Enterprise Employment Grant – in 2013/14 109 new jobs were created with employment grant support;
The Social Enterprise Franchise Programme provided support to social enterprises interested in franchisor/franchisee business models.
The establishment of 11 Social Enterprise Hubs (SEHs) as one of the six signature projects being taken forward under OFMDFM’s Delivering Social Change initiative (DSC). This provides an operational hub in each of the Social Investment Fund areas to provide advice, help generate ideas and support the development of new social enterprise projects.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036542%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207976","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207976"}},{"id":"207810","reference":"AQW 36496/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-25","answerBy":"2014-10-10","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what steps his Department is taking to address low literacy and numeracy levels in East Londonderry, as part of a wider strategy to address educational underachievement amongst young people.","answerText":"My Department’s Urban Regeneration and Community Development Policy Framework sets out the overarching structure and direction for the delivery of all urban regeneration and community development activity in NI. In particular it will tackle area-based deprivation and inequalities in areas such as educational underachievement amongst young people to reduce the gaps between disadvantaged communities and the rest of NI.\n\nThe Department, through its Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund, may support projects that are designed to address educational underachievement where a priority need has been identified and where resources are available. The following projects in Coleraine and Limavady are examples of this:\n\nColeraine Education Community Project\n\nBallysally Integrated Nurturing Project\n\nSkills Development & Education Programme\n\nChurchlands Community Supporting Families through Learning\n\nMillburn Community Development Worker\n\nEnjoying Learning and Achieving in Limavady, and\n\nDRIVE (Developing Relationships in Vulnerable Environments) Project.","answerHtml":"My Department’s Urban Regeneration and Community Development Policy Framework sets out the overarching structure and direction for the delivery of all urban regeneration and community development activity in NI. In particular it will tackle area-based deprivation and inequalities in areas such as educational underachievement amongst young people to reduce the gaps between disadvantaged communities and the rest of NI.
The Department, through its Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund, may support projects that are designed to address educational underachievement where a priority need has been identified and where resources are available. The following projects in Coleraine and Limavady are examples of this:
Coleraine Education Community Project
Ballysally Integrated Nurturing Project
Skills Development & Education Programme
Churchlands Community Supporting Families through Learning
Millburn Community Development Worker
Enjoying Learning and Achieving in Limavady, and
DRIVE (Developing Relationships in Vulnerable Environments) Project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036496%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207810","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207810"}},{"id":"207809","reference":"AQW 36495/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-25","answerBy":"2014-10-10","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what communication his Department has with the UK Government to ensure that there is appropriate access to information regarding individuals who have settled in Northern Ireland and possess a criminal record in their country of origin.","answerText":"The UK relies on established processes, underpinned by European Union legislation, which address the exchange of criminal record information with EU Member States. The two applicable European Council Framework Decisions are 2009/315/JHA and 2009/316/JHA.\n\nFor non-EU countries, the UK relies on bi-lateral arrangements between countries.\n\nThis exchange of criminal record information is facilitated through the UK Central Authority (UKCA), situated in ACRO (Association of Chief Police Officers Criminal Records Office).\n\nDOJ and PSNI officials are members of the UKCA Governance Board.","answerHtml":"The UK relies on established processes, underpinned by European Union legislation, which address the exchange of criminal record information with EU Member States. The two applicable European Council Framework Decisions are 2009/315/JHA and 2009/316/JHA.
For non-EU countries, the UK relies on bi-lateral arrangements between countries.
This exchange of criminal record information is facilitated through the UK Central Authority (UKCA), situated in ACRO (Association of Chief Police Officers Criminal Records Office).
DOJ and PSNI officials are members of the UKCA Governance Board.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036495%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207809","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207809"}},{"id":"207808","reference":"AQW 36494/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-25","answerBy":"2014-10-10","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what steps his Department and the Northern Ireland Environment Agency are taking to encourage (a) businesses; (b) non-governmental organisations; (c) councils; and (d) associations or professional societies to be signed participants in Prosperity Agreements.","answerText":"Prosperity Agreements are voluntary agreements through which the NIEA and an organisation can explore opportunities for reducing environment and heritage impacts in ways that create prosperity and well-being.\n\nI have instructed my Department to negotiate and develop Prosperity Agreements with organisations where significant environmental, social and economic benefits can be gained.\n\nI regularly talk about this new initiative publicly and my senior Department officials are in discussions with a wide variety of businesses, trade associations, non-government organisations and councils about potential Prosperity Agreements.\n\nWe have also provided information about Prosperity Agreements and made the first signed Prosperity Agreement publicly available on the Department’s website. There is a small team in the NIEA who ensure that organisations that are interested in discussing Prosperity Agreements further can access more information.\n\nFinally, all NIEA staff are briefed on Prosperity Agreements so they can discuss them with organisations that are interested in the programme.","answerHtml":"Prosperity Agreements are voluntary agreements through which the NIEA and an organisation can explore opportunities for reducing environment and heritage impacts in ways that create prosperity and well-being.
I have instructed my Department to negotiate and develop Prosperity Agreements with organisations where significant environmental, social and economic benefits can be gained.
I regularly talk about this new initiative publicly and my senior Department officials are in discussions with a wide variety of businesses, trade associations, non-government organisations and councils about potential Prosperity Agreements.
We have also provided information about Prosperity Agreements and made the first signed Prosperity Agreement publicly available on the Department’s website. There is a small team in the NIEA who ensure that organisations that are interested in discussing Prosperity Agreements further can access more information.
Finally, all NIEA staff are briefed on Prosperity Agreements so they can discuss them with organisations that are interested in the programme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036494%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207808","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207808"}},{"id":"207807","reference":"AQW 36493/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-25","answerBy":"2014-10-10","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what communication his Department has had with universities to put mechanisms in place at the end of the academic year to encourage students to ensure their tenancy deposits are protected.","answerText":"Since the introduction of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, on 1 April 2013, my Department has been engaged in an information campaign on the protection of tenancy deposits, including communication with universities.\n\nIn July 2013 the Department wrote to all of the universities asking them to include Departmental guidance on tenancy deposit protection on each of their websites. In recent weeks each university and college has received information about the scheme. My officials have also been present at university fresher’s weeks to encourage students at the beginning of the academic year to check that their landlord has protected the deposit with an approved tenancy deposit scheme administrator. Students living in the private rented sector are being advised that their landlord should have protected the deposit within 14 of receiving it and provided them with prescribed information within 28 of receiving the deposit. Where a landlord has failed to comply with these requirements then tenants are being encouraged to report this to their local council environmental health department who are responsible for enforcing the scheme requirements.\n\nThese steps are in addition to the publicity that each tenancy deposit scheme administrator undertakes individually.","answerHtml":"Since the introduction of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, on 1 April 2013, my Department has been engaged in an information campaign on the protection of tenancy deposits, including communication with universities.
In July 2013 the Department wrote to all of the universities asking them to include Departmental guidance on tenancy deposit protection on each of their websites. In recent weeks each university and college has received information about the scheme. My officials have also been present at university fresher’s weeks to encourage students at the beginning of the academic year to check that their landlord has protected the deposit with an approved tenancy deposit scheme administrator. Students living in the private rented sector are being advised that their landlord should have protected the deposit within 14 of receiving it and provided them with prescribed information within 28 of receiving the deposit. Where a landlord has failed to comply with these requirements then tenants are being encouraged to report this to their local council environmental health department who are responsible for enforcing the scheme requirements.
These steps are in addition to the publicity that each tenancy deposit scheme administrator undertakes individually.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036493%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207807","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207807"}},{"id":"207806","reference":"AQW 36492/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-25","answerBy":"2014-10-10","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment how many applications for the Third Sector Capacity Fund his Department has received from organisations in East Londonderry.","answerText":"The Rethink Waste Capital Fund for the Third Sector was launched on 22 August 2014. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2014. To date, no applications have been received from organisations in East Londonderry.\n\nThe relevant link for potential applicants is: http://www.wrapni.org.uk/content/third-sector-capacity-fund-capital.","answerHtml":"The Rethink Waste Capital Fund for the Third Sector was launched on 22 August 2014. The closing date for applications is 30 November 2014. To date, no applications have been received from organisations in East Londonderry.
The relevant link for potential applicants is: http://www.wrapni.org.uk/content/third-sector-capacity-fund-capital.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036492%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207806","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207806"}},{"id":"207629","reference":"AQW 36452/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-24","answerBy":"2014-10-09","answered":"2014-10-08","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for a numerical break-down, by (i) gender; (ii) age; (iii) disability; and (iv) ethnicity, of the Governing Bodies of each Further Education College, including the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise.","answerText":"As part of my Department’s commitment to equality of opportunity, membership of the Governing Bodies of the six further education colleges is monitored in line with the requirements of Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.\n\nHowever, Governing Body members are not compelled to provide this information and do so on a voluntary basis. As such, my Department only holds incomplete records in relation to the information requested. The table at Annex A outlines the information held on each further education college Governing Body at 30th September 2014.\n\nResponsibility for oversight of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) belongs to the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development. The Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development has advised me that CAFRE does not have a Governing Body.\n\nGovernance is provided within the structure of the Department. A College Advisory Group exists to provide advice at a strategic and operational level to the College Director and College Management Team. This group comprises representatives from external stakeholder groups across a number of sectors which are relevant to the work of the College. DARD does not hold Equality Monitoring information about this group; however the gender breakdown is two females and eleven males.\n\nAnnex A\n\nCOLLEGE\tCURRENT NUMBER OF GOVERNORS\tGENDER\tAGE\t\t\t\t\t\tDISABILITY\t\tRACE\nUNDER 30\t30-39\t40-49\t50-59\tOVER 60\tNOT KNOWN\tYES\tNO\tNOT KNOWN\tCAUCASIAN\tOTHER\tNOT KNOWN\nBelfast Metropolitan College\t18\tMALE\t13\t0\t1\t1\t4\t5\t2\t0\t13\t0\t13\t0\t0\nFEMALE\t5\t1\t0\t1\t3\t0\t0\t0\t5\t0\t5\t0\t0\nTOTAL\t18\t1\t1\t2\t7\t5\t2\t0\t18\t0\t18\t0\t0\n\nNorthern Regional College\t17\tMALE\t11\t1\t0\t2\t2\t3\t3\t0\t11\t0\t11\t0\t0\nFEMALE\t6\t0\t0\t4\t0\t1\t1\t0\t6\t0\t5\t1\t0\nTOTAL\t17\t1\t0\t6\t2\t4\t4\t0\t17\t0\t16\t1\t0\n\nNorth West Regional College\t15\tMALE\t11\t0\t1\t1\t3\t2\t4\t0\t11\t0\t11\t0\t0\nFEMALE\t4\t0\t0\t2\t0\t1\t1\t0\t3\t1\t4\t0\t0\nTOTAL\t15\t0\t1\t3\t3\t3\t5\t0\t14\t1\t15\t0\t0\n\nSouth Eastern Regional College\t16\tMALE\t12\t1\t0\t2\t3\t3\t3\t0\t12\t0\t12\t0\t0\nFEMALE\t4\t0\t0\t1\t1\t0\t2\t0\t3\t1\t4\t0\t0\nTOTAL\t16\t1\t0\t3\t4\t3\t5\t0\t15\t1\t16\t0\t0\n\nSouthern Regional College\t18\tMALE\t11\t1\t3\t0\t5\t2\t0\t0\t11\t0\t11\t0\t0\nFEMALE\t7\t0\t1\t2\t0\t2\t2\t0\t7\t0\t7\t0\t0\nTOTAL\t18\t1\t4\t2\t5\t4\t2\t0\t18\t0\t18\t0\t0\n\nCOLLEGE\tCURRENT NUMBER OF GOVERNORS\tGENDER\tAGE\t\t\t\t\t\tDISABILITY\tRACE\nUNDER 30\t30-39\t40-49\t50-59\tOVER 60\tNOT KNOWN\tYES\tNO\tNOT KNOWN\tCAUCASIAN\tOTHER\tNOT KNOWN\nSouth\nWest College\t18\tMALE\t14\t0\t0\t2\t3\t5\t4\t0\t13\t1\t13\t0\t1\nFEMALE\t4\t0\t0\t1\t1\t1\t1\t0\t4\t0\t4\t0\t0\nTOTAL\t18\t0\t0\t3\t4\t6\t5\t0\t17\t1\t17\t0\t1\n\nOVERALL TOTAL\t102\tMALE\t72\t3\t5\t8\t20\t20\t16\t0\t71\t1\t71\t0\t1\nFEMALE\t30\t1\t1\t11\t5\t5\t7\t0\t28\t2\t29\t1\t0\nTOTAL\t102\t4\t6\t19\t25\t25\t23\t0\t99\t3\t100\t1\t1","answerHtml":"As part of my Department’s commitment to equality of opportunity, membership of the Governing Bodies of the six further education colleges is monitored in line with the requirements of Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998.
However, Governing Body members are not compelled to provide this information and do so on a voluntary basis. As such, my Department only holds incomplete records in relation to the information requested. The table at Annex A outlines the information held on each further education college Governing Body at 30th September 2014.
Responsibility for oversight of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) belongs to the Department for Agriculture and Rural Development. The Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development has advised me that CAFRE does not have a Governing Body.
Governance is provided within the structure of the Department. A College Advisory Group exists to provide advice at a strategic and operational level to the College Director and College Management Team. This group comprises representatives from external stakeholder groups across a number of sectors which are relevant to the work of the College. DARD does not hold Equality Monitoring information about this group; however the gender breakdown is two females and eleven males.
Annex A
| COLLEGE | CURRENT NUMBER OF GOVERNORS | GENDER | AGE | DISABILITY | RACE | ||||||||||
| UNDER 30 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | OVER 60 | NOT KNOWN | YES | NO | NOT KNOWN | CAUCASIAN | OTHER | NOT KNOWN | ||||
| Belfast Metropolitan College | 18 | MALE | 13 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 4 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 13 | 0 | 13 | 0 | 0 |
| FEMALE | 5 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 5 | 0 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 18 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 7 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 18 | 0 | 18 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Northern Regional College | 17 | MALE | 11 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 0 |
| FEMALE | 6 | 0 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 0 | 5 | 1 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 17 | 1 | 0 | 6 | 2 | 4 | 4 | 0 | 17 | 0 | 16 | 1 | 0 | ||
| North West Regional College | 15 | MALE | 11 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 4 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 0 |
| FEMALE | 4 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 15 | 0 | 1 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 5 | 0 | 14 | 1 | 15 | 0 | 0 | ||
| South Eastern Regional College | 16 | MALE | 12 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 12 | 0 | 12 | 0 | 0 |
| FEMALE | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 3 | 1 | 4 | 0 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 16 | 1 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 3 | 5 | 0 | 15 | 1 | 16 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Southern Regional College | 18 | MALE | 11 | 1 | 3 | 0 | 5 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 11 | 0 | 0 |
| FEMALE | 7 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 0 | 2 | 2 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 7 | 0 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 18 | 1 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 4 | 2 | 0 | 18 | 0 | 18 | 0 | 0 |
| COLLEGE | CURRENT NUMBER OF GOVERNORS | GENDER | AGE | DISABILITY | RACE | ||||||||||
| UNDER 30 | 30-39 | 40-49 | 50-59 | OVER 60 | NOT KNOWN | YES | NO | NOT KNOWN | CAUCASIAN | OTHER | NOT KNOWN | ||||
| South West College | 18 | MALE | 14 | 0 | 0 | 2 | 3 | 5 | 4 | 0 | 13 | 1 | 13 | 0 | 1 |
| FEMALE | 4 | 0 | 0 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 4 | 0 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 18 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 4 | 6 | 5 | 0 | 17 | 1 | 17 | 0 | 1 | ||
| OVERALL TOTAL | 102 | MALE | 72 | 3 | 5 | 8 | 20 | 20 | 16 | 0 | 71 | 1 | 71 | 0 | 1 |
| FEMALE | 30 | 1 | 1 | 11 | 5 | 5 | 7 | 0 | 28 | 2 | 29 | 1 | 0 | ||
| TOTAL | 102 | 4 | 6 | 19 | 25 | 25 | 23 | 0 | 99 | 3 | 100 | 1 | 1 |
The Department currently provides funding to councils for two main purposes - for Community Festivals across the north and for City of Culture legacy (specifically to Derry City Council).
In the case of festivals, while my Department has overall policy responsibility for the Community Festivals Fund, responsibility for making awards to individual festivals has, since 2008, been devolved to councils.
Monitoring arrangements include the requirement for each council to provide an annual report to the Department which provides details of festivals supported and an assessment of their impact on local communities. The expenditure of councils is also, of course, subject to annual audit by the Local Government Auditor.
Since it is not a recurring programme, the arrangements around funding Derry City Council (DCC) for City of Culture Legacy are different. A detailed letter of offer provides a monitoring framework which deals with internal processes , financial management and governance matters within DCC. A North West team within the Department exercises an oversight role over Legacy activities and financial support. Funding requests from DCC are accompanied by approvals from its own internal audit function and are subject to further scrutiny within the Department.
The Department occasionally makes smaller grants available to councils for discrete projects. Letters of offer set out conditions for spend which is usually verified by reference to supporting documentation and/ or physical inspection.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036451%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207628","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207628"}},{"id":"207627","reference":"AQW 36450/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-24","answerBy":"2014-10-09","answered":"2014-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what responsibility her Department has for ensuring that funding allocated for City of Culture Capital Legacy Projects in the North West is appropriately distributed and used.","answerText":"I secured over £2m for the January to March 2014 period to support continuation of key projects from the City of Culture’s cultural programme and to prevent the loss of key benefits, partnerships and momentum after December 2013. This included strategic investment for sports facility development and other capital projects.\n\nTo ensure that additional funding for the North West is appropriately distributed and used, I have established a North West Office. Officials work on the ground, directly with communities and organisations in the North West to provide support. A North West team of three officials is in place with the Branch Head currently based in Derry in Orchard House.\n\nMy officials work closely with Sport NI and other relevant stakeholders to ensure sports capital projects in the North West are delivered.\n\nAdditional capital funding to support a sporting and cultural infrastructure programme across the North West will be subject to sufficient funding being made available through the October monitoring round.","answerHtml":"I secured over £2m for the January to March 2014 period to support continuation of key projects from the City of Culture’s cultural programme and to prevent the loss of key benefits, partnerships and momentum after December 2013. This included strategic investment for sports facility development and other capital projects.
To ensure that additional funding for the North West is appropriately distributed and used, I have established a North West Office. Officials work on the ground, directly with communities and organisations in the North West to provide support. A North West team of three officials is in place with the Branch Head currently based in Derry in Orchard House.
My officials work closely with Sport NI and other relevant stakeholders to ensure sports capital projects in the North West are delivered.
Additional capital funding to support a sporting and cultural infrastructure programme across the North West will be subject to sufficient funding being made available through the October monitoring round.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036450%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207627","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207627"}},{"id":"207626","reference":"AQW 36449/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-24","answerBy":"2014-09-30","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what communication her Department is having with the relevant stakeholders to address the delay in the development of the Dungiven Sports Complex as a City of Culture Capital Legacy Project.","answerText":"Limavady Borough Council is responsible for developing plans for a £7 million sports and community facility in the Dungiven area. My officials and I have met with the Council a number of times in this regard.\n\nI understand that the project is still at the initial stages of development and planning. A draft business case for a phased element of the project was received by my Department and Sport NI is currently working with Limavady Borough Council to produce a final draft of the business case.\n\nMy Department is still committed to seeking to provide the £2.5 million funding sought by Limavady Borough Council towards the development of the project. Provision of this funding will be subject to budget availability and the approval of a business case, which will include confirmation of necessary partnership funding for the project.\n\nI will be meeting Liam Flanigan again, Chief Executive, Limavady Council to discuss the way forward for the Dungiven sports and community facilities project.","answerHtml":"Limavady Borough Council is responsible for developing plans for a £7 million sports and community facility in the Dungiven area. My officials and I have met with the Council a number of times in this regard.
I understand that the project is still at the initial stages of development and planning. A draft business case for a phased element of the project was received by my Department and Sport NI is currently working with Limavady Borough Council to produce a final draft of the business case.
My Department is still committed to seeking to provide the £2.5 million funding sought by Limavady Borough Council towards the development of the project. Provision of this funding will be subject to budget availability and the approval of a business case, which will include confirmation of necessary partnership funding for the project.
I will be meeting Liam Flanigan again, Chief Executive, Limavady Council to discuss the way forward for the Dungiven sports and community facilities project.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036449%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207626","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207626"}},{"id":"207619","reference":"AQW 36442/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-24","answerBy":"2014-10-09","answered":"2014-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what proportion of departmental funding has been allocated to independent counselling services for post-primary school pupils, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"The Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS) is funded by the Department of Education and is available to all post primary schools and special schools with post primary age pupils. ICSS spend over the last three years is detailed below:\n\nTotal DE budget\t\tICSS spend\t% of resource budget\nYear\tResource\tCapital\tTotal\nBudget\t\tICSS Post Primary\tICSS Special Schools\tTotal\nICSS\n£000\t£000\t£000\n2011-12\t1,920,481\t114,752\t2,035,233\t\t£1,893,873\t£386,504\t£2,280,377\t0.12%\n2012-13\t1,900,503\t108,221\t2,008,724\t\t£1,935,022\t£359,688\t£2,294,710\t0.12%\n2013-14\t1,917,844\t109,435\t2,027,279\t\t£2,041,028\t£402,556\t£2,443,584\t0.13%","answerHtml":"The Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS) is funded by the Department of Education and is available to all post primary schools and special schools with post primary age pupils. ICSS spend over the last three years is detailed below:
| Total DE budget | ICSS spend | % of resource budget | ||||||
| Year | Resource | Capital | Total Budget | ICSS Post Primary | ICSS Special Schools | Total ICSS | ||
| £000 | £000 | £000 | ||||||
| 2011-12 | 1,920,481 | 114,752 | 2,035,233 | £1,893,873 | £386,504 | £2,280,377 | 0.12% | |
| 2012-13 | 1,900,503 | 108,221 | 2,008,724 | £1,935,022 | £359,688 | £2,294,710 | 0.12% | |
| 2013-14 | 1,917,844 | 109,435 | 2,027,279 | £2,041,028 | £402,556 | £2,443,584 | 0.13% |
On 01 September 2014 there were 828 agri-environment scheme participants in East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036374%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207333","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207333"}},{"id":"207332","reference":"AQW 36373/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-23","answerBy":"2014-10-08","answered":"2014-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether his Department is considering improvements to street lighting, including in rural areas, to encourage people from all areas to actively participate in the Bicycle Strategy.","answerText":"My Department takes account of safety for all road users, including cyclists, when considering the provision or improvement of street lighting facilities, in both urban and rural areas.\n\nDue to the ongoing pressure on my Department’s resource budget for street lighting, further extensions to the street lighting network are generally not appropriate until sufficient resources are available to properly operate and maintain existing street lighting installations.\n\nThe draft Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland highlights four key elements which will contribute to achieving our vision for cycling in Northern Ireland. These are:\n\na comprehensive network for the bicycle;\n\nsafe spaces for the bicycle;\n\ngreater numbers of people travelling by bicycle; and\n\ninviting places for all.\n\nOnce the Strategy has been finalised a Bicycle Strategy Delivery Plan will be published. The Delivery Plan will include details of specific projects that my Department is planning to take forward.","answerHtml":"My Department takes account of safety for all road users, including cyclists, when considering the provision or improvement of street lighting facilities, in both urban and rural areas.
Due to the ongoing pressure on my Department’s resource budget for street lighting, further extensions to the street lighting network are generally not appropriate until sufficient resources are available to properly operate and maintain existing street lighting installations.
The draft Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland highlights four key elements which will contribute to achieving our vision for cycling in Northern Ireland. These are:
a comprehensive network for the bicycle;
safe spaces for the bicycle;
greater numbers of people travelling by bicycle; and
inviting places for all.
Once the Strategy has been finalised a Bicycle Strategy Delivery Plan will be published. The Delivery Plan will include details of specific projects that my Department is planning to take forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036373%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207332","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207332"}},{"id":"207331","reference":"AQW 36372/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-23","answerBy":"2014-10-08","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what agri-environment schemes are currently operational; and whether they will be maintained within the new Rural Development Programme for 2014-2020.","answerText":"Currently there are six agri-environment schemes in operation, namely; the Habitat Improvement Scheme (HIS); the Countryside Access Scheme (CAS); The Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme (ESA); the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS), the NI Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) and the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS).\n\nIt is intended that approximately £60m of the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 budget will be used to fund existing agri-environment agreements, therefore helping to ensure that environmental benefits associated with ongoing agri-environment schemes can continue to be delivered.","answerHtml":"Currently there are six agri-environment schemes in operation, namely; the Habitat Improvement Scheme (HIS); the Countryside Access Scheme (CAS); The Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme (ESA); the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS), the NI Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) and the Organic Farming Scheme (OFS).
It is intended that approximately £60m of the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020 budget will be used to fund existing agri-environment agreements, therefore helping to ensure that environmental benefits associated with ongoing agri-environment schemes can continue to be delivered.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036372%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207331","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207331"}},{"id":"207329","reference":"AQW 36370/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-23","answerBy":"2014-10-08","answered":"2014-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to outline any Road Safety schemes his Department is planning to introduce to coincide with the launch of the Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland.","answerText":"I launched the draft Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland on 27th August 2014 for a twelve week period of public consultation. During the consultation period my Department is seeking views on the document and any other relevant issues which may not have been covered by the document.\n\nInput received during the consultation period will be considered before the strategy is finalised and a Consultation Report outlining the Department’s response to the issues raised will be published.\n\nFollowing the finalisation of the Strategy a Bicycle Strategy Delivery Plan will be published. The Delivery Plan will include details of specific projects that my Department is planning to take forward. Officials in my department and in DOE are working closely together to support my vision of more cycling, done safely and with mutual respect for other road users.\n\nA key task in developing the Delivery Plan will be to work with stakeholders in the assessment and development of current bicycle infrastructure and progressing opportunities for new routes.","answerHtml":"I launched the draft Bicycle Strategy for Northern Ireland on 27th August 2014 for a twelve week period of public consultation. During the consultation period my Department is seeking views on the document and any other relevant issues which may not have been covered by the document.
Input received during the consultation period will be considered before the strategy is finalised and a Consultation Report outlining the Department’s response to the issues raised will be published.
Following the finalisation of the Strategy a Bicycle Strategy Delivery Plan will be published. The Delivery Plan will include details of specific projects that my Department is planning to take forward. Officials in my department and in DOE are working closely together to support my vision of more cycling, done safely and with mutual respect for other road users.
A key task in developing the Delivery Plan will be to work with stakeholders in the assessment and development of current bicycle infrastructure and progressing opportunities for new routes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036370%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207329","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207329"}},{"id":"207327","reference":"AQW 36368/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-23","answerBy":"2014-10-08","answered":"2014-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on the steps her Department is taking to address sports participation rates in the top 30 per cent most deprived areas, where rates are significantly lower than the national average.","answerText":"DCAL secured funding of £4.5m within the current CSR period towards a programme for promoting equality, tackling poverty and social exclusion through sport. This funding was distributed equally between Ulster Council GAA, Ulster Branch Irish Rugby Football Union and Irish Football Association over a three year period and up until 31st March 2015. Programmes and projects are being implemented by these sports and include opportunities across the north of Ireland, including in the top 30% most deprived areas.\n\nSport NI also delivers a range of programmes and projects with this focus. These include: -\n\nActive Communities\n\nActive Communities is a Sport NI National Lottery Funded initiative that provides opportunities for participation in sport and physical recreation in communities throughout the north of Ireland, and especially among underrepresented groups. The initiative is delivered in partnership with local District Councils across the north of Ireland.\n\nIn 2013/14, a total of 109,129 people participated in Active Communities a total of 1.04 million times. 34,267 (31.4%) of those participants came from the 0-30% most disadvantaged communities in the north as follows:\n\nMost Disadvantaged %\tNational Population %\tParticipants %\tParticipants\n0 – 10\t9.1%\t12.1%\t13,205\n10 – 20\t9.8%\t10%\t10,913\n20 - 30\t9.9%\t9.3%\t10,149\nTotal\t28.8%\t31.4%\t34,267\n\nIn addition, Sport NI is undertaking the following:\n\nInvestment in and deployment of 117 Active Communities coaches;\n\nEmbedding targets for engagement in and benefits for sports clubs in areas of greatest need through the Active Clubs programme;\n\nPrioritising applications from areas of greatest need through the Active Awards for Sport programme;\n\nEngagement with schools in, or serving, areas of high social need through Activ8 initiatives;\n\nThrough the Midnight Street Soccer programme, Sport NI has invested £329,600 in football programmes serving targeted areas of greatest need; and\n\nSport NI is working with strategic partner organisations such as Outdoor Recreation NI and Disability Sport NI to support improved engagement in areas of high social need through outdoor (adventure) activities and for people with a disability.\n\nBoxing Investment Programme\n\nThe Boxing Investment Programme specifically targets boxing clubs that could have a positive impact on participant rates in Super Output Areas and Neighbourhood Renewal areas. This was accomplished by prioritising projects to boxing clubs based in or near these areas.\n\nTollymore National Outdoor Centre\n\nSport NI’s national outdoor centre at Tollymore is also developing interventions for increasing participation opportunities for people, especially among underrepresented groups, and includes the following measures in relation to the most deprived areas:\n\nProviding ‘outreach’ programmes for those who live in areas of greatest need;\n\nDeveloping partnerships with a range of organisations, to provide hill walking, canoe-sport and mountain biking opportunities in areas such as the Belfast Hills and the Lagan Corridor;\n\nDeveloping a network within community youth workers to ensure opportunities for training are maximised;\n\nProvision of a wide range of open days and introductory skills courses and sessions. A number of these courses will be provided off site to provide groups from areas of greatest need with the opportunity to participate in adventure sports;\n\nDeveloping, piloting and rolling out low cost leadership training in a number of off-site locations;\n\nEstablishing a support structure for those who work in adventure sports in areas of greatest need, which will provide CPD opportunities; and\n\n20 bursaries to be provided for leaders who work with groups in areas of greatest need.","answerHtml":"DCAL secured funding of £4.5m within the current CSR period towards a programme for promoting equality, tackling poverty and social exclusion through sport. This funding was distributed equally between Ulster Council GAA, Ulster Branch Irish Rugby Football Union and Irish Football Association over a three year period and up until 31st March 2015. Programmes and projects are being implemented by these sports and include opportunities across the north of Ireland, including in the top 30% most deprived areas.
Sport NI also delivers a range of programmes and projects with this focus. These include: -
Active Communities
Active Communities is a Sport NI National Lottery Funded initiative that provides opportunities for participation in sport and physical recreation in communities throughout the north of Ireland, and especially among underrepresented groups. The initiative is delivered in partnership with local District Councils across the north of Ireland.
In 2013/14, a total of 109,129 people participated in Active Communities a total of 1.04 million times. 34,267 (31.4%) of those participants came from the 0-30% most disadvantaged communities in the north as follows:
| Most Disadvantaged % | National Population % | Participants % | Participants |
| 0 – 10 | 9.1% | 12.1% | 13,205 |
| 10 – 20 | 9.8% | 10% | 10,913 |
| 20 - 30 | 9.9% | 9.3% | 10,149 |
| Total | 28.8% | 31.4% | 34,267 |
In addition, Sport NI is undertaking the following:
Investment in and deployment of 117 Active Communities coaches;
Embedding targets for engagement in and benefits for sports clubs in areas of greatest need through the Active Clubs programme;
Prioritising applications from areas of greatest need through the Active Awards for Sport programme;
Engagement with schools in, or serving, areas of high social need through Activ8 initiatives;
Through the Midnight Street Soccer programme, Sport NI has invested £329,600 in football programmes serving targeted areas of greatest need; and
Sport NI is working with strategic partner organisations such as Outdoor Recreation NI and Disability Sport NI to support improved engagement in areas of high social need through outdoor (adventure) activities and for people with a disability.
Boxing Investment Programme
The Boxing Investment Programme specifically targets boxing clubs that could have a positive impact on participant rates in Super Output Areas and Neighbourhood Renewal areas. This was accomplished by prioritising projects to boxing clubs based in or near these areas.
Tollymore National Outdoor Centre
Sport NI’s national outdoor centre at Tollymore is also developing interventions for increasing participation opportunities for people, especially among underrepresented groups, and includes the following measures in relation to the most deprived areas:
Providing ‘outreach’ programmes for those who live in areas of greatest need;
Developing partnerships with a range of organisations, to provide hill walking, canoe-sport and mountain biking opportunities in areas such as the Belfast Hills and the Lagan Corridor;
Developing a network within community youth workers to ensure opportunities for training are maximised;
Provision of a wide range of open days and introductory skills courses and sessions. A number of these courses will be provided off site to provide groups from areas of greatest need with the opportunity to participate in adventure sports;
Developing, piloting and rolling out low cost leadership training in a number of off-site locations;
Establishing a support structure for those who work in adventure sports in areas of greatest need, which will provide CPD opportunities; and
20 bursaries to be provided for leaders who work with groups in areas of greatest need.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036368%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207327","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207327"}},{"id":"207175","reference":"AQW 36265/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-22","answerBy":"2014-10-07","answered":"2014-10-28","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the number of Good Relations Officers currently in each local council area; and how these positions are likely to be affected, in terms of number and function, when 11 new councils take over on 1 April 2015.","answerText":"Ms C Sugden (East Londonderry): To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the number of Good Relations Officers currently in each local council area; and how these positions are likely to be affected, in terms of number and function, where 11 new councils take over on 1 April 2015.\n\nANSWER\n\nThe number of Good Relations Officers employed by each District Council, along with the equivalent number of full-time staff, is set out in the table below:\n\nCouncil\tNumber of Good Relations Officers\tNumber of Full-time equivalents\nAntrim\t1\t1\nArds\t2\t1\nArmagh\t2\t2\nBallymena\t3\t2\nBallymoney\t1\t1\nBanbridge\t2\t2\nBelfast\t5\t4.8\nCarrickfergus\t2\t1\nCastlereagh\t1\t1\nColeraine\t3\t1.5\nCookstown\t1\t1\nCraigavon\t2\t2\nDerry\t3\t2.8\nDown\t1\t1\nDungannon and South Tyrone\t2\t2\nFermanagh\t2\t2\nLarne\t1\t1\nLimavady\t2\t2\nLisburn\t1\t1\nMagherafelt\t1\t1\nMoyle\t1\t1\nNewry and Mourne\t3\t3\nNewtownabbey\t1\t1\nNorth Down\t1\t1\nOmagh\t2\t1.2\nStrabane\t1\t1\n\nAs we outlined in the Together: Building a United Community strategy, the District Council Good Relations Programme is an important link between the strategy’s high level strategic priorities and delivery of good relations activity at a local level. Councils’ programmes are now closely aligned with the strategy’s four key priorities while taking into account local needs identified through each Council’s Good Relations Audit.\n\nAs a result, how the strategy is implemented locally in each Council area, including staffing requirements, will continue to be a matter for the relevant Council to decide.","answerHtml":"Ms C Sugden (East Londonderry): To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the number of Good Relations Officers currently in each local council area; and how these positions are likely to be affected, in terms of number and function, where 11 new councils take over on 1 April 2015.
ANSWER
The number of Good Relations Officers employed by each District Council, along with the equivalent number of full-time staff, is set out in the table below:
| Council | Number of Good Relations Officers | Number of Full-time equivalents |
| Antrim | 1 | 1 |
| Ards | 2 | 1 |
| Armagh | 2 | 2 |
| Ballymena | 3 | 2 |
| Ballymoney | 1 | 1 |
| Banbridge | 2 | 2 |
| Belfast | 5 | 4.8 |
| Carrickfergus | 2 | 1 |
| Castlereagh | 1 | 1 |
| Coleraine | 3 | 1.5 |
| Cookstown | 1 | 1 |
| Craigavon | 2 | 2 |
| Derry | 3 | 2.8 |
| Down | 1 | 1 |
| Dungannon and South Tyrone | 2 | 2 |
| Fermanagh | 2 | 2 |
| Larne | 1 | 1 |
| Limavady | 2 | 2 |
| Lisburn | 1 | 1 |
| Magherafelt | 1 | 1 |
| Moyle | 1 | 1 |
| Newry and Mourne | 3 | 3 |
| Newtownabbey | 1 | 1 |
| North Down | 1 | 1 |
| Omagh | 2 | 1.2 |
| Strabane | 1 | 1 |
As we outlined in the Together: Building a United Community strategy, the District Council Good Relations Programme is an important link between the strategy’s high level strategic priorities and delivery of good relations activity at a local level. Councils’ programmes are now closely aligned with the strategy’s four key priorities while taking into account local needs identified through each Council’s Good Relations Audit.
As a result, how the strategy is implemented locally in each Council area, including staffing requirements, will continue to be a matter for the relevant Council to decide.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036265%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207175","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207175"}},{"id":"207172","reference":"AQW 36263/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-22","answerBy":"2014-10-07","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of full time staff, working in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust, who are currently on sick absence.","answerText":"The Northern Health & Social Care Trust has advised that the number of full-time staff on sickness absence at present is 391.","answerHtml":"The Northern Health & Social Care Trust has advised that the number of full-time staff on sickness absence at present is 391.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036263%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207172","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207172"}},{"id":"207171","reference":"AQW 36262/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-22","answerBy":"2014-10-07","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how his Department plans to distribute the recent £6m of funding which has been provided to support three new projects which will improve health and social care services for people living with dementia.","answerText":"The Dementia Services Project is being funded under the Delivering Social Change Signature Programme, a joint NI Executive/Atlantic Philanthropies initiative. The Project involves three workstreams, with an overall budget of approximately £6.2m.\n\nThe projected funding for each of the workstreams is as follows:\n\n(i) Awareness Raising, Information and Support - £3.18m;\n\n(ii) Developing Human Capital - £1.56m; and\n\n(iii) Respite, Short Breaks and Support to Carers - £1.52m.","answerHtml":"The Dementia Services Project is being funded under the Delivering Social Change Signature Programme, a joint NI Executive/Atlantic Philanthropies initiative. The Project involves three workstreams, with an overall budget of approximately £6.2m.
The projected funding for each of the workstreams is as follows:
(i) Awareness Raising, Information and Support - £3.18m;
(ii) Developing Human Capital - £1.56m; and
(iii) Respite, Short Breaks and Support to Carers - £1.52m.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036262%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207171","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207171"}},{"id":"207168","reference":"AQW 36260/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-22","answerBy":"2014-10-07","answered":"2014-10-21","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister to detail the total number of applications received by the Central Good Relations Funding Programme 2014/15; and how many were awarded funding.","answerText":"Two hundred and twelve applications were received for the Central Good Relations Fund 2014/15. Two hundred of these applications were for project funding and 12 were for small grants.\n\nFive of the 12 small grants applications have been approved and 7 were unsuccessful. All small grant applicants have been advised of the decision relating to their application.\n\nOf the 200 applications for project funding, 21 have been approved based on the current available budget. The remaining applications for project funding will be re-considered if further funding becomes available.\n\nIt should be noted that the Central Good Relations Fund is a small central scheme designed to distribute funding in year. We primarily fund good relations work through the Community Relations Council and all District Councils. The fund does not and will not replace mainstream core or project funding.","answerHtml":"Two hundred and twelve applications were received for the Central Good Relations Fund 2014/15. Two hundred of these applications were for project funding and 12 were for small grants.
Five of the 12 small grants applications have been approved and 7 were unsuccessful. All small grant applicants have been advised of the decision relating to their application.
Of the 200 applications for project funding, 21 have been approved based on the current available budget. The remaining applications for project funding will be re-considered if further funding becomes available.
It should be noted that the Central Good Relations Fund is a small central scheme designed to distribute funding in year. We primarily fund good relations work through the Community Relations Council and all District Councils. The fund does not and will not replace mainstream core or project funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036260%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207168","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207168"}},{"id":"207166","reference":"AQW 36259/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-22","answerBy":"2014-10-07","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of (i) 79 per cent of the Northern Ireland Health and Social Care Workforce being female; and (ii) the risks associated with potential staffing shortages considering that of this number only 54 per cent work full time.","answerText":"Staffing matters are the responsibility of Health and Social Care Trusts based on service need and available resources.\n\nAppointments to positions in the HSC are based on specific criteria and are merit based. The terms and conditions and the wide variety of available job roles for HSC staff are such that we attract applications from all sections of the community and it is clear that many women take the opportunity to have a fulfilling career in this field.\n\nStaffing levels are managed on a funded establishment basis of full-time equivalent staff and it is for HSC employers to manage alternative working patterns within this. I expect HSC employers to balance the need for flexible working patterns with the requirement to maintain safe and effective round-the clock services.","answerHtml":"Staffing matters are the responsibility of Health and Social Care Trusts based on service need and available resources.
Appointments to positions in the HSC are based on specific criteria and are merit based. The terms and conditions and the wide variety of available job roles for HSC staff are such that we attract applications from all sections of the community and it is clear that many women take the opportunity to have a fulfilling career in this field.
Staffing levels are managed on a funded establishment basis of full-time equivalent staff and it is for HSC employers to manage alternative working patterns within this. I expect HSC employers to balance the need for flexible working patterns with the requirement to maintain safe and effective round-the clock services.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036259%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207166","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207166"}},{"id":"207113","reference":"AQW 36234/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-19","answerBy":"2014-10-06","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the number of small businesses which have qualified for the Small Business Rate Relief Scheme in East Londonderry, in each of the last four years.","answerText":"Information on the number of small businesses that have qualified for the Small Business Rate Relief scheme in the East Londonderry Constituency is not available. However, since the scheme began in April 2010 the number of non-domestic properties that have benefitted in the Coleraine, Derry and Limavady District Council areas in each of the last four years is provided in the table below.\n\nNumber of Non-Domestic Properties that Benefitted from SBRR each year\n2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\t2014/15*\nColeraine\t688\t947\t980\t996\nDerry\t853\t1,320\t1,386\t1,372\nLimavady\t316\t448\t427\t425\n\n*2014/15 figures as at 31st August 2014","answerHtml":"Information on the number of small businesses that have qualified for the Small Business Rate Relief scheme in the East Londonderry Constituency is not available. However, since the scheme began in April 2010 the number of non-domestic properties that have benefitted in the Coleraine, Derry and Limavady District Council areas in each of the last four years is provided in the table below.
| Number of Non-Domestic Properties that Benefitted from SBRR each year | ||||
| 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | 2014/15* | |
| Coleraine | 688 | 947 | 980 | 996 |
| Derry | 853 | 1,320 | 1,386 | 1,372 |
| Limavady | 316 | 448 | 427 | 425 |
*2014/15 figures as at 31st August 2014
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036234%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207113","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207113"}},{"id":"207111","reference":"AQW 36232/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-19","answerBy":"2014-10-06","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel for an update on the recommendations his Department have made to the UK Government and NI Executive regarding the devolution of additional taxes and/or duties.","answerText":"Officials are currently taking this work forward and the recommendations from this analysis should be put to Northern Ireland Executive and Government Ministers in the coming months.","answerHtml":"Officials are currently taking this work forward and the recommendations from this analysis should be put to Northern Ireland Executive and Government Ministers in the coming months.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036232%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207111","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207111"}},{"id":"207110","reference":"AQW 36231/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-19","answerBy":"2014-10-06","answered":"2014-10-02","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the correlation between young offenders and areas of deprivation.","answerText":"Research elsewhere supports the view that there is a link between crime and deprivation but no specific research has been undertaken by my Department in relation to young offenders in Northern Ireland.\n\nThe Department’s Strategic Framework for Reducing Offending - which sets out the Executive’s long-term approach to reducing offending in Northern Ireland - recognised that offending behaviour can be linked to wider factors including problems with family, health, social care, education, training and employment, poverty and deprivation and housing. Whilst not related specifically to young offenders, the link between deprivation and offending is highlighted within this Framework.","answerHtml":"Research elsewhere supports the view that there is a link between crime and deprivation but no specific research has been undertaken by my Department in relation to young offenders in Northern Ireland.
The Department’s Strategic Framework for Reducing Offending - which sets out the Executive’s long-term approach to reducing offending in Northern Ireland - recognised that offending behaviour can be linked to wider factors including problems with family, health, social care, education, training and employment, poverty and deprivation and housing. Whilst not related specifically to young offenders, the link between deprivation and offending is highlighted within this Framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036231%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207110","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207110"}},{"id":"207109","reference":"AQW 36230/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-19","answerBy":"2014-10-06","answered":"2014-09-30","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice for his assessment of the effectiveness of Youth Conferencing; and, of the number of participants in Youth Conferencing, how many have reoffended within six months, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Whilst a reduction in reoffending is the desired goal, the youth conference in itself is not just another method for reducing offending, but also a means of giving the victim and the community a voice in the process. In Northern Ireland we have a high rate of direct victim participation, with victims participating in 46% of conferences in 2013/14. Victims are given the opportunity to have a direct input, have their views heard and to feel part of the process. This is often not the case with “traditional” justice and is a valuable addition to what can be a very difficult experience for those who have been hurt and harmed. In 2013/14 99% of victims who took part in Youth Conferencing reported satisfaction with the process.\n\nYouth Conferencing is focused on the delivery of bespoke plans aimed at reducing offending. The plans are also designed to improve the young person’s life chances and to make direct amends to the victim where appropriate.\n\nIn relation to reoffending the Department of Justice does not, as yet, hold a continuous series of reoffending information for the period in question. The Department has recently revised the methodology used to calculate reoffending analysis. The first publication in this new series was published in June 2014 and provided one year reoffending information for a cohort of offenders given a community disposal or released from custody during the 2010/11 financial year.\n\nAcross the adult and youth 2010/11 cohorts, 416 individuals had received at least one Youth Conference Order. Of these 180 (43%) had reoffended within six months of receiving the order.","answerHtml":"Whilst a reduction in reoffending is the desired goal, the youth conference in itself is not just another method for reducing offending, but also a means of giving the victim and the community a voice in the process. In Northern Ireland we have a high rate of direct victim participation, with victims participating in 46% of conferences in 2013/14. Victims are given the opportunity to have a direct input, have their views heard and to feel part of the process. This is often not the case with “traditional” justice and is a valuable addition to what can be a very difficult experience for those who have been hurt and harmed. In 2013/14 99% of victims who took part in Youth Conferencing reported satisfaction with the process.
Youth Conferencing is focused on the delivery of bespoke plans aimed at reducing offending. The plans are also designed to improve the young person’s life chances and to make direct amends to the victim where appropriate.
In relation to reoffending the Department of Justice does not, as yet, hold a continuous series of reoffending information for the period in question. The Department has recently revised the methodology used to calculate reoffending analysis. The first publication in this new series was published in June 2014 and provided one year reoffending information for a cohort of offenders given a community disposal or released from custody during the 2010/11 financial year.
Across the adult and youth 2010/11 cohorts, 416 individuals had received at least one Youth Conference Order. Of these 180 (43%) had reoffended within six months of receiving the order.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036230%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207109","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207109"}},{"id":"207108","reference":"AQW 36229/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-19","answerBy":"2014-10-06","answered":"2014-10-06","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what cross-departmental initiatives aimed at young people have been considered or implemented to reduce criminal activity related to significant levels of deprivation.","answerText":"My Department is actively engaged in cross departmental working in delivering on the justice agenda to build a fair, just and safer society. This is also a central theme of my Department’s Strategic Framework for Reducing Offending which recognises that offending behaviour can be linked to a number of wider factors, including poverty and deprivation. The Framework undertakes to explore ways to encourage and support joined up working between Neighbourhood Renewal Partnerships and Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs).\n\nFunding is provided by my Department to PCSPs across Northern Ireland to address local community safety and policing priorities which are identified in consultation with local communities. The partnerships address measures to tackle, for example, anti-social behaviour, crime and the fear of crime. A number of indices, including crime rates, population and deprivation are used to calculate the level of funding each PCSP receives.\n\nMy Department also contributes towards the Early Intervention Transformation Programme, which is a cross-departmental fund set up to target interventions at children most in need, including those living in areas of social deprivation, with the overall aim of improving their life outcomes, including the prevention of offending.","answerHtml":"My Department is actively engaged in cross departmental working in delivering on the justice agenda to build a fair, just and safer society. This is also a central theme of my Department’s Strategic Framework for Reducing Offending which recognises that offending behaviour can be linked to a number of wider factors, including poverty and deprivation. The Framework undertakes to explore ways to encourage and support joined up working between Neighbourhood Renewal Partnerships and Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs).
Funding is provided by my Department to PCSPs across Northern Ireland to address local community safety and policing priorities which are identified in consultation with local communities. The partnerships address measures to tackle, for example, anti-social behaviour, crime and the fear of crime. A number of indices, including crime rates, population and deprivation are used to calculate the level of funding each PCSP receives.
My Department also contributes towards the Early Intervention Transformation Programme, which is a cross-departmental fund set up to target interventions at children most in need, including those living in areas of social deprivation, with the overall aim of improving their life outcomes, including the prevention of offending.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036229%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=207108","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=207108"}},{"id":"206927","reference":"AQW 36168/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-18","answerBy":"2014-10-03","answered":"2014-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how her Department has promoted the Northern Ireland Countryside Management Scheme to encourage voluntary participation by farmers.","answerText":"The Department’s Countryside Management Unit (CMU) encouraged voluntary participation by farmers in the NI Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) by engaging in an active promotion campaign during the application periods in 2008 and 2011. A series of farm walks were organised to provide information to interested participants on the options available and the many benefits that agri-environment schemes can deliver.\n\nNICMS featured on the DARD exhibit at Balmoral Show and other local agricultural shows. Visitors to the shows were able to discuss their eligibility for NICMS and the options available to them with Countryside Management advisors.\n\nCMU published a number of press articles in the farming press to highlight the opening of NICMS for application and to provide information on the scheme. The Department’s website also contained advice on applying for NICMS and details of the scheme.","answerHtml":"The Department’s Countryside Management Unit (CMU) encouraged voluntary participation by farmers in the NI Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) by engaging in an active promotion campaign during the application periods in 2008 and 2011. A series of farm walks were organised to provide information to interested participants on the options available and the many benefits that agri-environment schemes can deliver.
NICMS featured on the DARD exhibit at Balmoral Show and other local agricultural shows. Visitors to the shows were able to discuss their eligibility for NICMS and the options available to them with Countryside Management advisors.
CMU published a number of press articles in the farming press to highlight the opening of NICMS for application and to provide information on the scheme. The Department’s website also contained advice on applying for NICMS and details of the scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036168%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206927","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206927"}},{"id":"206926","reference":"AQW 36167/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-18","answerBy":"2014-10-03","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on the measures taken by her Department to achieve the ‘Sport Matters’ commitment to ensure that 90 per cent of the population are within twenty minutes of quality accredited, multi sports facilities.","answerText":"Sport Matters aims to achieve 90% of the population in the north accessing quality accredited, multi-sport facilities by 2019. In 2013, a review indicated a level of 73% assessed against a baseline of 65% in 2007.\n\nMy Department, through Sport NI is delivering significant investments to assist with achieving the target including a Community Capital Programme investment of £10,427,075 in over 46 capital projects. They aim to invest a further £17.5m of Lottery funding over a five year period.\n\nSport NI’s Report, ‘Bridging the Gap’ encouraged the strategic development of sports facilities and bodies including District Councils and Universities, have used this to prioritise investment. SportNI also developed Active Places NI, a comprehensive database of sports facilities. They are currently working in partnership with Councils to deliver a Sports Facilities Strategy and 11 District Council Area Reports. The Strategy and Reports will provide a framework for the strategic delivery of sports facilities throughout the north.\n\nSport NI and the Department of Education have recently worked in partnership to publish the guidance toolkit Your School/Your Club to encourage the creation of multi-sport hubs within the school estate for use outside of school hours.\n\nIn developing the quality of facilities, Sport NI has invested significant financial and other resources into the development of a number of quality accreditation schemes.","answerHtml":"Sport Matters aims to achieve 90% of the population in the north accessing quality accredited, multi-sport facilities by 2019. In 2013, a review indicated a level of 73% assessed against a baseline of 65% in 2007.
My Department, through Sport NI is delivering significant investments to assist with achieving the target including a Community Capital Programme investment of £10,427,075 in over 46 capital projects. They aim to invest a further £17.5m of Lottery funding over a five year period.
Sport NI’s Report, ‘Bridging the Gap’ encouraged the strategic development of sports facilities and bodies including District Councils and Universities, have used this to prioritise investment. SportNI also developed Active Places NI, a comprehensive database of sports facilities. They are currently working in partnership with Councils to deliver a Sports Facilities Strategy and 11 District Council Area Reports. The Strategy and Reports will provide a framework for the strategic delivery of sports facilities throughout the north.
Sport NI and the Department of Education have recently worked in partnership to publish the guidance toolkit Your School/Your Club to encourage the creation of multi-sport hubs within the school estate for use outside of school hours.
In developing the quality of facilities, Sport NI has invested significant financial and other resources into the development of a number of quality accreditation schemes.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036167%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206926","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206926"}},{"id":"206925","reference":"AQW 36166/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-18","answerBy":"2014-10-03","answered":"2014-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the number of farmers in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry that currently receive support through the Less Favoured Area Compensatory Allowance for farming in naturally less favourable areas.","answerText":"Based on the Less Favoured Areas Compensatory Allowance (LFACA) 2014, claimed on the Single Application Form 2013:\n\nAs at 19 September 2014, 13,368 farm businesses have received support;\n\nAs at 19 September 2014, 914 farm businesses in the East Londonderry constituency have received support.","answerHtml":"Based on the Less Favoured Areas Compensatory Allowance (LFACA) 2014, claimed on the Single Application Form 2013:
As at 19 September 2014, 13,368 farm businesses have received support;
As at 19 September 2014, 914 farm businesses in the East Londonderry constituency have received support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036166%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206925","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206925"}},{"id":"206924","reference":"AQW 36165/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-18","answerBy":"2014-10-03","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure for an update on the measures taken by her Department to achieve the ‘Sport Matters’ commitment to increase sports participation amongst women, older people and people with disabilities.","answerText":"Progress against the targets set out in the Sport Matters Strategy is monitored by the Sports Matters Monitoring Group (SMMG), which I chair. Following the SMMG meeting in November 2013, the Group agreed to the publication of the annual ‘Sport Matters Implementation Group Progress Report’ for the period October 2012 to September 2013.\n\nThis report details activities and progress against all the targets within the Sport Matters Strategy, including those to increase sports participation amongst women, older people and people with disabilities. Currently, the targets to increase participation amongst adults, women and older people are deemed to be on track. The target to increase participation amongst people with disabilities is deemed to be on track, but with some delay.\n\nExamples of activities to address these targets include Sport NI’s Active Communities Programme, Active Clubs Programme, Disability Sport NI’s Disability 5 Star Challenge and ongoing investment in sporting facilities which are accessible by all members of local communities. The report is available on the DCAL website through the following link: www.dcalni.gov.uk/sport_matters_progress_report_2012-2013.pdf\n\nThe next annual progress report will be considered by the SMMG at its meeting in December 2014 and will be made publically available at that time.","answerHtml":"Progress against the targets set out in the Sport Matters Strategy is monitored by the Sports Matters Monitoring Group (SMMG), which I chair. Following the SMMG meeting in November 2013, the Group agreed to the publication of the annual ‘Sport Matters Implementation Group Progress Report’ for the period October 2012 to September 2013.
This report details activities and progress against all the targets within the Sport Matters Strategy, including those to increase sports participation amongst women, older people and people with disabilities. Currently, the targets to increase participation amongst adults, women and older people are deemed to be on track. The target to increase participation amongst people with disabilities is deemed to be on track, but with some delay.
Examples of activities to address these targets include Sport NI’s Active Communities Programme, Active Clubs Programme, Disability Sport NI’s Disability 5 Star Challenge and ongoing investment in sporting facilities which are accessible by all members of local communities. The report is available on the DCAL website through the following link: www.dcalni.gov.uk/sport_matters_progress_report_2012-2013.pdf
The next annual progress report will be considered by the SMMG at its meeting in December 2014 and will be made publically available at that time.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036165%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206924","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206924"}},{"id":"206923","reference":"AQW 36164/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-18","answerBy":"2014-10-03","answered":"2014-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development how many farmers in East Londonderry have received financial support through the Countryside Management Scheme, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The number of farmers in East Londonderry that received financial support through the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) and related schemes in each of the last 5 years is outlined in Table 1. The data is based on the last five financial years and shows the total number of participants in the NI Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) and in Legacy Agri-environment schemes. Legacy Agri-environment (AE) schemes refer to the AE schemes that were introduced under the Rural Development Programme 2000-2006, namely the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) and the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme (ESA).\n\nTable 1\n\nYear\tNumber of farmers that received support through CMS in East Londonderry\nApril 2009 – March 2010\t910\nApril 2010 – March 2011\t1024\nApril 2011 – March 2012\t1008\nApril 2012 – March 2013\t939\nApril 2013 – March 2014\t944","answerHtml":"The number of farmers in East Londonderry that received financial support through the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) and related schemes in each of the last 5 years is outlined in Table 1. The data is based on the last five financial years and shows the total number of participants in the NI Countryside Management Scheme (NICMS) and in Legacy Agri-environment schemes. Legacy Agri-environment (AE) schemes refer to the AE schemes that were introduced under the Rural Development Programme 2000-2006, namely the Countryside Management Scheme (CMS) and the Environmentally Sensitive Areas Scheme (ESA).
Table 1
| Year | Number of farmers that received support through CMS in East Londonderry |
| April 2009 – March 2010 | 910 |
| April 2010 – March 2011 | 1024 |
| April 2011 – March 2012 | 1008 |
| April 2012 – March 2013 | 939 |
| April 2013 – March 2014 | 944 |
The Independent Review Panel presented its final report to me on 28th August. It contains a considerable number of proposals for change which I now intend to consider before making decisions on the way forward. I will publish the report in due course.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036055%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206493","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206493"}},{"id":"206492","reference":"AQW 36054/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-17","answerBy":"2014-10-02","answered":"2014-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education whether he can provide an assurance to staff of each Education and Library Board that their job will be secure when a single education board is created.","answerText":"The establishment of the Education Authority will represent a rationalisation of existing structures (the five Education and Library Boards and the Staff Commission). The new Authority is therefore expected to employ fewer staff, particularly in management grades, than are currently employed by the Education and Library Boards. Significant reductions in staff had already been made in anticipation of the establishment of ESA; it is my expectation that any remaining reductions will be achieved through voluntary redundancy, retirement or resignation.","answerHtml":"The establishment of the Education Authority will represent a rationalisation of existing structures (the five Education and Library Boards and the Staff Commission). The new Authority is therefore expected to employ fewer staff, particularly in management grades, than are currently employed by the Education and Library Boards. Significant reductions in staff had already been made in anticipation of the establishment of ESA; it is my expectation that any remaining reductions will be achieved through voluntary redundancy, retirement or resignation.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036054%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206492","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206492"}},{"id":"206483","reference":"AQW 36047/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-17","answerBy":"2014-10-02","answered":"2014-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many people in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry have been made offers of employment following participation in the Bridge to Employment scheme.","answerText":"The number of companies in East Londonderry and throughout Northern Ireland which have run Bridge to Employment programmes in conjunction with my Department since 2011 to the present are detailed below. The table also details the number of participants who were offered employment following participation in the Bridge to Employment scheme;\n\nYear\tBridge to Employment Programmes In Northern Ireland\tBridge to Employment Programmes In East Londonderry\tOffered Employment\n(Northern Ireland)\tOffered Employment\n(East Londonderry)\n2011/12\t43\t0\t288\t0\n2012/13\t63\t2\t391\t11\n2013/14\t50\t0\t302\t0\n2014/15*\t43\t4\t34\t15\nTotal\t199\t6\t1015\t26\n\n* figures for 2014/15 are from 1st April 2014 – 18th September 2014","answerHtml":"The number of companies in East Londonderry and throughout Northern Ireland which have run Bridge to Employment programmes in conjunction with my Department since 2011 to the present are detailed below. The table also details the number of participants who were offered employment following participation in the Bridge to Employment scheme;
| Year | Bridge to Employment Programmes In Northern Ireland | Bridge to Employment Programmes In East Londonderry | Offered Employment (Northern Ireland) | Offered Employment (East Londonderry) |
| 2011/12 | 43 | 0 | 288 | 0 |
| 2012/13 | 63 | 2 | 391 | 11 |
| 2013/14 | 50 | 0 | 302 | 0 |
| 2014/15* | 43 | 4 | 34 | 15 |
| Total | 199 | 6 | 1015 | 26 |
* figures for 2014/15 are from 1st April 2014 – 18th September 2014
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036047%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206483","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206483"}},{"id":"206478","reference":"AQW 36045/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-17","answerBy":"2014-10-02","answered":"2014-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how many companies in East Londonderry are partners with his Department’s Bridge Programme.","answerText":"The number of companies in East Londonderry and throughout Northern Ireland which have run Bridge to Employment programmes in conjunction with my Department since 2011 to the present are detailed below. The table also details the number of participants who were offered employment following participation in the Bridge to Employment scheme;\n\nYear\tBridge to Employment Programmes In Northern Ireland\tBridge to Employment Programmes In East Londonderry\tOffered Employment\n(Northern Ireland)\tOffered Employment\n(East Londonderry)\n2011/12\t43\t0\t288\t0\n2012/13\t63\t2\t391\t11\n2013/14\t50\t0\t302\t0\n2014/15*\t43\t4\t34\t15\nTotal\t199\t6\t1015\t26\n\n* figures for 2014/15 are from 1st April 2014 – 18th September 2014","answerHtml":"The number of companies in East Londonderry and throughout Northern Ireland which have run Bridge to Employment programmes in conjunction with my Department since 2011 to the present are detailed below. The table also details the number of participants who were offered employment following participation in the Bridge to Employment scheme;
| Year | Bridge to Employment Programmes In Northern Ireland | Bridge to Employment Programmes In East Londonderry | Offered Employment (Northern Ireland) | Offered Employment (East Londonderry) |
| 2011/12 | 43 | 0 | 288 | 0 |
| 2012/13 | 63 | 2 | 391 | 11 |
| 2013/14 | 50 | 0 | 302 | 0 |
| 2014/15* | 43 | 4 | 34 | 15 |
| Total | 199 | 6 | 1015 | 26 |
* figures for 2014/15 are from 1st April 2014 – 18th September 2014
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2036045%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206478","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206478"}},{"id":"206330","reference":"AQW 35999/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-16","answerBy":"2014-10-01","answered":"2014-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what communication his Department has had with Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry regarding departmental funding in the immediate to short term future.","answerText":"The project promoters of all currently funded Neighbourhood Renewal projects were written to in June 2014 confirming that they will continue to receive Neighbourhood Renewal funding, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015. Project promoters were also advised that from 1April 2015, under the Reform of Local Government, the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council will be responsible for urban regeneration and community development and will therefore take all decisions regarding funding from this date. This is dependent on the Executive agreeing to the immediate introduction of the Regeneration and Housing Bill and the legislation being in place by 31 March 2015.\n\nOfficials in my Department are assisting the shadow Council regarding its plans for regeneration and community development from 1 April 2015.","answerHtml":"The project promoters of all currently funded Neighbourhood Renewal projects were written to in June 2014 confirming that they will continue to receive Neighbourhood Renewal funding, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015. Project promoters were also advised that from 1April 2015, under the Reform of Local Government, the new Causeway Coast and Glens Council will be responsible for urban regeneration and community development and will therefore take all decisions regarding funding from this date. This is dependent on the Executive agreeing to the immediate introduction of the Regeneration and Housing Bill and the legislation being in place by 31 March 2015.
Officials in my Department are assisting the shadow Council regarding its plans for regeneration and community development from 1 April 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035999%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206330","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206330"}},{"id":"206305","reference":"AQW 35981/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-16","answerBy":"2014-10-01","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail any potential employers based in East Londonderry who have signed up as partners to his Department’s Computing and Engineering Scholarship Programme.","answerText":"No employers have signed up to the programme as yet. The programme was launched on 15 September 2014 and the closing date for applications is 14 November 2014.\n\nThe Department will not be in a position to know which employers have submitted an application until after this closing date.","answerHtml":"No employers have signed up to the programme as yet. The programme was launched on 15 September 2014 and the closing date for applications is 14 November 2014.
The Department will not be in a position to know which employers have submitted an application until after this closing date.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035981%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206305","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206305"}},{"id":"206294","reference":"AQW 35973/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-16","answerBy":"2014-10-01","answered":"2014-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether departmental funding for Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry will continue in the immediate future, particularly funding for the Coleraine Education Community Project.","answerText":"All projects currently in receipt of Neighbourhood Renewal funding will continue to do so, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015.\n\nThe Coleraine Education Community Project is currently in receipt of funding through the Department of Education’s Community Education Initiatives Programme. This funding is due to cease on 31 October 2014.\n\nIt was hoped that funding support could be found for the project from the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund to extend it to 31 March 2015. However, as you will be aware, we are in the midst of a difficult financial environment and as the Neighbourhood Renewal budget is currently fully committed, I am unable to provide any funding for this project.\n\nThere is always a possibility that this situation will change and if so, the Coleraine Education Community Project will be considered for further funding support.","answerHtml":"All projects currently in receipt of Neighbourhood Renewal funding will continue to do so, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015.
The Coleraine Education Community Project is currently in receipt of funding through the Department of Education’s Community Education Initiatives Programme. This funding is due to cease on 31 October 2014.
It was hoped that funding support could be found for the project from the Neighbourhood Renewal Investment Fund to extend it to 31 March 2015. However, as you will be aware, we are in the midst of a difficult financial environment and as the Neighbourhood Renewal budget is currently fully committed, I am unable to provide any funding for this project.
There is always a possibility that this situation will change and if so, the Coleraine Education Community Project will be considered for further funding support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035973%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206294","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206294"}},{"id":"206289","reference":"AQW 35972/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-16","answerBy":"2014-10-01","answered":"2014-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail any recent changes to funding commitments made by his Department for Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry.","answerText":"There have been no recent changes to funding commitments made by my Department for Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry. All projects currently in receipt of Neighbourhood Renewal funding will continue to do so, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015.","answerHtml":"There have been no recent changes to funding commitments made by my Department for Neighbourhood Renewal Projects in East Londonderry. All projects currently in receipt of Neighbourhood Renewal funding will continue to do so, in line with their Contracts for Funding, up to 31 March 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035972%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206289","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206289"}},{"id":"206288","reference":"AQW 35971/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-16","answerBy":"2014-10-01","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of patient referrals made by the Health Service to the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"The number of patient referrals made by the Health Service to the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly is not available.\n\nHowever, information is available on the number of outpatient attendances and inpatient admissions at the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly. This information is detailed in Tables 1 and 2 below, for each of the last 5 years, broken down by the transferring HSC Trust.\n\nTable 1: Outpatient attendances carried out by the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly by transferring Trust: 2009/10 – 2013/14.\n\nHSC Trust\tFinancial Year\n2009/10\t2010/11\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\nBelfast\t0\t872\t2,200\t3,047\t3,438\nNorthern\t1,840\t237\t110\t5,089\t4,685\nSouth Eastern\t0\t0\t55\t574\t1,455\nSouthern\t33\t4\t156\t104\t8\nWestern\t5,153\t2,313\t4,477\t4,486\t4,452\nNorthern Ireland\t7,026\t3,426\t6,998\t13,300\t14,038\n\nSource: HSCB\n\nTable 2: Inpatient admissions at the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly, by transferring Trust: 2009/10 – 2013/14.\n\nHSC Trust\tFinancial Year\n2009/10\t2010/11\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\nBelfast\t219\t216\t707\t811\t950\nNorthern\t854\t353\t385\t2,016\t1,770\nSouth Eastern\t73\t0\t140\t318\t633\nSouthern\t23\t2\t67\t27\t0\nWestern\t1,722\t1,232\t2,441\t2,749\t2,034\nNorthern Ireland\t2,891\t1,803\t3,740\t5,921\t5,387\n\nSource: HSCB","answerHtml":"The number of patient referrals made by the Health Service to the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly is not available.
However, information is available on the number of outpatient attendances and inpatient admissions at the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly. This information is detailed in Tables 1 and 2 below, for each of the last 5 years, broken down by the transferring HSC Trust.
Table 1: Outpatient attendances carried out by the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly by transferring Trust: 2009/10 – 2013/14.
| HSC Trust | Financial Year | ||||
| 2009/10 | 2010/11 | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | |
| Belfast | 0 | 872 | 2,200 | 3,047 | 3,438 |
| Northern | 1,840 | 237 | 110 | 5,089 | 4,685 |
| South Eastern | 0 | 0 | 55 | 574 | 1,455 |
| Southern | 33 | 4 | 156 | 104 | 8 |
| Western | 5,153 | 2,313 | 4,477 | 4,486 | 4,452 |
| Northern Ireland | 7,026 | 3,426 | 6,998 | 13,300 | 14,038 |
Source: HSCB
Table 2: Inpatient admissions at the North West Private Hospital in Ballykelly, by transferring Trust: 2009/10 – 2013/14.
| HSC Trust | Financial Year | ||||
| 2009/10 | 2010/11 | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 | |
| Belfast | 219 | 216 | 707 | 811 | 950 |
| Northern | 854 | 353 | 385 | 2,016 | 1,770 |
| South Eastern | 73 | 0 | 140 | 318 | 633 |
| Southern | 23 | 2 | 67 | 27 | 0 |
| Western | 1,722 | 1,232 | 2,441 | 2,749 | 2,034 |
| Northern Ireland | 2,891 | 1,803 | 3,740 | 5,921 | 5,387 |
Source: HSCB
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035971%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206288","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206288"}},{"id":"206192","reference":"AQW 35950/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-15","answerBy":"2014-09-30","answered":"2014-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of children who have been placed in foster care in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"Figures on the number of Looked After Children placed in foster care are not available by Constituency. The lowest geographical output available is at Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust area. As the East Londonderry constituency falls within both the Western and Northern HSC Trust areas, figures on the number of children who were placed in foster care have been provided for both Trusts.\n\nTable 1: Children Placed in Foster Care in the Northern HSC Trust, the Western HSC Trust and Northern Ireland at 31 March (2011 – 2013)\n\nArea\t2011\t2012\t2013\nNo. Children Placed in Foster Care\tNo. Children Placed in Foster Care\tNo. Children Placed in Foster Care\nNorthern HSC Trust\t426\t447\t510\nWestern HSC Trust\t291\t325\t350\nNorthern Ireland\t1,862\t1,946\t2,112\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Board Delegated Statutory Functions Returns","answerHtml":"Figures on the number of Looked After Children placed in foster care are not available by Constituency. The lowest geographical output available is at Health and Social Care (HSC) Trust area. As the East Londonderry constituency falls within both the Western and Northern HSC Trust areas, figures on the number of children who were placed in foster care have been provided for both Trusts.
Table 1: Children Placed in Foster Care in the Northern HSC Trust, the Western HSC Trust and Northern Ireland at 31 March (2011 – 2013)
| Area | 2011 | 2012 | 2013 |
| No. Children Placed in Foster Care | No. Children Placed in Foster Care | No. Children Placed in Foster Care | |
| Northern HSC Trust | 426 | 447 | 510 |
| Western HSC Trust | 291 | 325 | 350 |
| Northern Ireland | 1,862 | 1,946 | 2,112 |
Source: Health and Social Care Board Delegated Statutory Functions Returns
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035950%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206192","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206192"}},{"id":"206191","reference":"AQW 35949/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-15","answerBy":"2014-09-30","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps his Department is taking to work with Health and Social Care Adoption and Fostering to ensure that, where possible, siblings who are placed into foster care are not separated.","answerText":"The Children (NI) Order 1995 and associated guidance promotes that siblings, as far as reasonably practicable, are accommodated together in foster care placements.\n\nIn circumstances where an emergency placement is required for a sibling group of children and a placement is not available that can accommodate all the siblings together, steps are taken to ensure that sibling relationships are maintained through regular contact or a future change of placement. Where it is determined that separate placements are in the children’s best interests, robust sibling contact arrangements will be established and the case monitored through the Looked After Children’s review process where changes to these arrangements can be made if deemed necessary.\n\nThe Regional Adoption and Fostering Service continues to actively promote the benefits of fostering with the aim of recruiting and supporting suitable foster carers and kinship carers for children, including siblings, throughout Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The Children (NI) Order 1995 and associated guidance promotes that siblings, as far as reasonably practicable, are accommodated together in foster care placements.
In circumstances where an emergency placement is required for a sibling group of children and a placement is not available that can accommodate all the siblings together, steps are taken to ensure that sibling relationships are maintained through regular contact or a future change of placement. Where it is determined that separate placements are in the children’s best interests, robust sibling contact arrangements will be established and the case monitored through the Looked After Children’s review process where changes to these arrangements can be made if deemed necessary.
The Regional Adoption and Fostering Service continues to actively promote the benefits of fostering with the aim of recruiting and supporting suitable foster carers and kinship carers for children, including siblings, throughout Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035949%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206191","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206191"}},{"id":"206190","reference":"AQW 35948/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-15","answerBy":"2014-09-30","answered":"2014-10-01","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what steps the Executive will take to ensure that the Coalition Government’s Tax-Free Childcare Scheme will be promoted and accessible in Northern Ireland.","answerText":"The Executive has agreed to seek to extend the provisions of the Westminster Childcare Payments Bill to Northern Ireland by means of a Legislative Consent Motion. Subject to the Assembly agreeing such a Motion, parents who live here will be able to claim support under the proposed new Tax Free Childcare Scheme in the same way as those living in England, Scotland or Wales.","answerHtml":"The Executive has agreed to seek to extend the provisions of the Westminster Childcare Payments Bill to Northern Ireland by means of a Legislative Consent Motion. Subject to the Assembly agreeing such a Motion, parents who live here will be able to claim support under the proposed new Tax Free Childcare Scheme in the same way as those living in England, Scotland or Wales.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035948%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206190","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206190"}},{"id":"206189","reference":"AQW 35947/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-15","answerBy":"2014-09-30","answered":"2014-09-29","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety what steps his Department is taking to (i) increase the number of families choosing to foster children; and (ii) to make the process from application to attainment as efficient as possible.","answerText":"Recruitment of foster carers is a continual activity and is based on the ability of prospective foster carers to match and build a relationship with the children and young people who require foster care. At the end of June 2014 there were 2146 foster carers in Northern Ireland. The Regional Adoption and Fostering Service (RAFS) supports local Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, in the recruitment, assessment and training of foster carers, maintains an overview of the overall fostering position and undertakes recruitment drives as required. In addition, Fostering Network (NI), on behalf of the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), provides a dedicated helpline for foster carers and runs annual recruitment campaigns. The British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) also receives funding from the HSCB to provide advice, consultancy services and training for prospective foster carers and professionals in Northern Ireland. Furthermore, under Transforming Your Care, additional funding has been made available to put in place professional foster care schemes for the most difficult to place children.\n\nCurrently the HSCB and HSC Trusts are reviewing fostering services which will identify areas of need and enable better targeting of recruitment. This has the potential to reduce the time spent on processing applications in respect of potential foster carers. Currently, the expected timeframe for the completion of assessments is between 4 and 6 months. Also, my Department is currently finalising new Fostering Regulations which, among other things, will enable independent fostering agencies to assess their own foster parents, without requiring a further assessment by a Health and Social Care Trust, as is currently the case. This will shorten the process for those who apply to become foster carers through independent fostering agencies. The new Regulations will also bring fostering agencies within the scope of inspection and regulation by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority.","answerHtml":"Recruitment of foster carers is a continual activity and is based on the ability of prospective foster carers to match and build a relationship with the children and young people who require foster care. At the end of June 2014 there were 2146 foster carers in Northern Ireland. The Regional Adoption and Fostering Service (RAFS) supports local Health and Social Care (HSC) Trusts, in the recruitment, assessment and training of foster carers, maintains an overview of the overall fostering position and undertakes recruitment drives as required. In addition, Fostering Network (NI), on behalf of the Health and Social Care Board (HSCB), provides a dedicated helpline for foster carers and runs annual recruitment campaigns. The British Association for Adoption and Fostering (BAAF) also receives funding from the HSCB to provide advice, consultancy services and training for prospective foster carers and professionals in Northern Ireland. Furthermore, under Transforming Your Care, additional funding has been made available to put in place professional foster care schemes for the most difficult to place children.
Currently the HSCB and HSC Trusts are reviewing fostering services which will identify areas of need and enable better targeting of recruitment. This has the potential to reduce the time spent on processing applications in respect of potential foster carers. Currently, the expected timeframe for the completion of assessments is between 4 and 6 months. Also, my Department is currently finalising new Fostering Regulations which, among other things, will enable independent fostering agencies to assess their own foster parents, without requiring a further assessment by a Health and Social Care Trust, as is currently the case. This will shorten the process for those who apply to become foster carers through independent fostering agencies. The new Regulations will also bring fostering agencies within the scope of inspection and regulation by the Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035947%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206189","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206189"}},{"id":"206188","reference":"AQW 35946/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-15","answerBy":"2014-09-30","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the number of registered childcare providers in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, in each of the last three years.","answerText":"At 16 September 2014, there were 5,185 childcare providers in Northern Ireland, 289 of which were located in the East Londonderry Constituency. These figures were taken from a live database of childcare providers that is updated on a regular basis and maintained by the Health and Social Care (HSC) Board. As it is a live database, it is not possible to use this database to provide figures for previous years.\n\nThe table below contains the number of childcare providers at 31 March in 2012 and 2013. These figures have been taken from the HSC Board’s Delegated Statutory Functions Returns that provide aggregated information on childrens social care activity including childcare. As the East Londonderry constituency falls within both the Northern and Western HSC Trusts, figures on childcare provision have been provided for both Trusts.\n\nTable 1: The Number of Childcare Providers in the Northern HSC Trust, the Western HSC Trust and Northern Ireland at 31 March (2012 – 2013)\n\nArea\t2012\t2013\nNo. Childcare Providers\tNo. Childcare Providers\nNorthern HSC Trust\t1,660\t1,547\nWestern HSC Trust\t851\t868\nNorthern Ireland\t5,320\t5,336\n\nSource: Health and Social Care Board Delegated Statutory Functions Returns\n\nNote: Childcare providers include childminders, crèches, day nurseries, after school clubs, playgroups, two year old programmes and summer schemes","answerHtml":"At 16 September 2014, there were 5,185 childcare providers in Northern Ireland, 289 of which were located in the East Londonderry Constituency. These figures were taken from a live database of childcare providers that is updated on a regular basis and maintained by the Health and Social Care (HSC) Board. As it is a live database, it is not possible to use this database to provide figures for previous years.
The table below contains the number of childcare providers at 31 March in 2012 and 2013. These figures have been taken from the HSC Board’s Delegated Statutory Functions Returns that provide aggregated information on childrens social care activity including childcare. As the East Londonderry constituency falls within both the Northern and Western HSC Trusts, figures on childcare provision have been provided for both Trusts.
Table 1: The Number of Childcare Providers in the Northern HSC Trust, the Western HSC Trust and Northern Ireland at 31 March (2012 – 2013)
| Area | 2012 | 2013 |
| No. Childcare Providers | No. Childcare Providers | |
| Northern HSC Trust | 1,660 | 1,547 |
| Western HSC Trust | 851 | 868 |
| Northern Ireland | 5,320 | 5,336 |
Source: Health and Social Care Board Delegated Statutory Functions Returns
Note: Childcare providers include childminders, crèches, day nurseries, after school clubs, playgroups, two year old programmes and summer schemes
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035946%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206188","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206188"}},{"id":"206161","reference":"AQW 35930/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-12","answerBy":"2014-09-29","answered":"2014-10-14","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development to detail the Departments he is cooperating with to assess the need for transport reform in rural areas and to ensure the implementation of proposed improvements to rural public transport facilities.","answerText":"My Department is currently working with a number of organisations on a pilot project to trial the feasibility of improved integration of publicly funded passenger transport services in the Dungannon area. The organisations involved include the Department of Education, the Southern Education and Library Board, the Department of the Environment, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, the Health and Social Care Board, the Southern Health Trust, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Translink, Community Transport and the Federation of Passenger Transport.\n\nThe main purpose of the pilot is to identify opportunities to improve public transport options for passengers, particularly in rural areas, through a more flexible approach to the use of all the resources that are available to the different transport providers. The pilot is due to be completed later this year and all of the Departments will be involved in the evaluation and in the appraisal of the options for wider implementation.\n\nIn respect of proposed improvements to rural public transport facilities, Translink has advised that plans are in place to provide new accessible platforms at the Bellarena Halt when the Coleraine to Londonderry Phase 2 upgrade works commence. In addition, a contract to improve passenger facilities at Ballymoney Rail Station has been approved and it is planned to commence the off-street bus station at Banbridge next year.","answerHtml":"My Department is currently working with a number of organisations on a pilot project to trial the feasibility of improved integration of publicly funded passenger transport services in the Dungannon area. The organisations involved include the Department of Education, the Southern Education and Library Board, the Department of the Environment, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, the Health and Social Care Board, the Southern Health Trust, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Translink, Community Transport and the Federation of Passenger Transport.
The main purpose of the pilot is to identify opportunities to improve public transport options for passengers, particularly in rural areas, through a more flexible approach to the use of all the resources that are available to the different transport providers. The pilot is due to be completed later this year and all of the Departments will be involved in the evaluation and in the appraisal of the options for wider implementation.
In respect of proposed improvements to rural public transport facilities, Translink has advised that plans are in place to provide new accessible platforms at the Bellarena Halt when the Coleraine to Londonderry Phase 2 upgrade works commence. In addition, a contract to improve passenger facilities at Ballymoney Rail Station has been approved and it is planned to commence the off-street bus station at Banbridge next year.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035930%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206161","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206161"}},{"id":"206143","reference":"AQW 35916/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-12","answerBy":"2014-09-19","answered":"2014-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":true,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment what steps his Department is taking to address the recent back-log of clients taking the off-road and on-road motorcycle test in Ballymena; and whether his Department intends to increase efficiency by appointing an additional examiner.","answerText":"Arrangements are currently underway to train four members of staff to conduct off-road and on-road motorcycle tests. Subject to successful completion of training, it is anticipated that one of those staff will be placed in Ballymena Test Centre to be operational by week commencing 29 September. This will address the immediate issue of availability of motorcycle testing services in the area.","answerHtml":"Arrangements are currently underway to train four members of staff to conduct off-road and on-road motorcycle tests. Subject to successful completion of training, it is anticipated that one of those staff will be placed in Ballymena Test Centre to be operational by week commencing 29 September. This will address the immediate issue of availability of motorcycle testing services in the area.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035916%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206143","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206143"}},{"id":"206142","reference":"AQW 35915/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-12","answerBy":"2014-09-29","answered":"2014-10-07","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister, of the £26m allocated to six Signature Programmes under the Delivering Social Change framework, what proportion of funding has been allocated to delivering benefits for people with disabilities.","answerText":"The Delivering Social Change framework was set up by the Northern Ireland Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion. It represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground.\n\nThe framework aims to deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages and to improve children and young people’s health, well-being and life opportunities thereby breaking the long term cycle of multi-generational problems.\n\nIn line with the identified key priorities we announced, in October 2012, a £26m package of six Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes which focus on early interventions.\n\nThe Signature Programmes were set up to improve literacy and numeracy levels, offer increased family support and to support job creation within local communities – all of which were identified as being key priorities.\n\nWhilst each of the six signature programmes has the capacity to positively impact on people with disabilities, we are unable to specify the proportion of funding within each that directly supports this group.","answerHtml":"The Delivering Social Change framework was set up by the Northern Ireland Executive to tackle poverty and social exclusion. It represents a new level of joined-up working by Ministers and senior officials across departments to drive through initiatives which have a genuine impact on the ground.
The framework aims to deliver a sustained reduction in poverty and associated issues across all ages and to improve children and young people’s health, well-being and life opportunities thereby breaking the long term cycle of multi-generational problems.
In line with the identified key priorities we announced, in October 2012, a £26m package of six Delivering Social Change Signature Programmes which focus on early interventions.
The Signature Programmes were set up to improve literacy and numeracy levels, offer increased family support and to support job creation within local communities – all of which were identified as being key priorities.
Whilst each of the six signature programmes has the capacity to positively impact on people with disabilities, we are unable to specify the proportion of funding within each that directly supports this group.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035915%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206142","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206142"}},{"id":"206141","reference":"AQW 35914/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-12","answerBy":"2014-09-29","answered":"2014-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what communication his Department has had with landlords of privately rented properties which qualify for the Affordable Warmth Scheme, to ensure that they are registered with the Landlord Registration scheme, and give consent for energy efficiency improvements to be completed for which they must contribute towards costs.","answerText":"My Department launched a public consultation exercise on 17 February 2014 on proposals for a new Affordable Warmth Scheme. It also held 6 public consultation events across Northern Ireland in week commencing 3 March 2014. These events were held in Belfast, Enniskillen, Londonderry, Ballymena, Newry and Coleraine with a total of 100 people attending those events including a number of landlords.\n\nThe public consultation “From Fuel Poverty to Achieving Affordable Warmth” included consultation about landlord contribution and registering with the Landlord Registration Scheme. It is a legal requirement for all landlords who let properties under a private tenancy in Northern Ireland to register with the Landlord Registration Scheme. Landlords with an existing tenancy must register with the Landlord Registration Scheme before 25 February 2015.\n\nMy Department included the Landlord Association of Northern Ireland in its public consultation by sending it a copy of the public consultation document. Whilst the Landlord Association of Northern Ireland did not formally respond to the public consultation; it has published the Public Consultation “From Fuel Poverty to Achieving Affordable Warmth” on its website.\n\nMy Department received a total of 66 responses to the public consultation. Of those who responded to the public consultation about the landlord contribution, 40% agreed that landlords should contribute, 25% were unsure, 20% disagreed and 15% did not specify their preference. Landlords have a responsibility for maintaining the energy efficiency of their property and my Department will monitor the uptake of the Scheme amongst privately rented properties to ensure tenants are not disadvantaged.\n\nThe Affordable Warmth Scheme is based on the householder’s gross income which must be less than £20,000. Once the householder satisfies the income criteria, the Housing Executive will check if the landlord is registered with my Department’s Landlord Registration Scheme and will seek the landlord’s permission before commencing any installation work. Once the energy efficiency measures have been installed and Building Control approval received, the Housing Executive will pay the landlord the 50% contribution towards the measures.","answerHtml":"My Department launched a public consultation exercise on 17 February 2014 on proposals for a new Affordable Warmth Scheme. It also held 6 public consultation events across Northern Ireland in week commencing 3 March 2014. These events were held in Belfast, Enniskillen, Londonderry, Ballymena, Newry and Coleraine with a total of 100 people attending those events including a number of landlords.
The public consultation “From Fuel Poverty to Achieving Affordable Warmth” included consultation about landlord contribution and registering with the Landlord Registration Scheme. It is a legal requirement for all landlords who let properties under a private tenancy in Northern Ireland to register with the Landlord Registration Scheme. Landlords with an existing tenancy must register with the Landlord Registration Scheme before 25 February 2015.
My Department included the Landlord Association of Northern Ireland in its public consultation by sending it a copy of the public consultation document. Whilst the Landlord Association of Northern Ireland did not formally respond to the public consultation; it has published the Public Consultation “From Fuel Poverty to Achieving Affordable Warmth” on its website.
My Department received a total of 66 responses to the public consultation. Of those who responded to the public consultation about the landlord contribution, 40% agreed that landlords should contribute, 25% were unsure, 20% disagreed and 15% did not specify their preference. Landlords have a responsibility for maintaining the energy efficiency of their property and my Department will monitor the uptake of the Scheme amongst privately rented properties to ensure tenants are not disadvantaged.
The Affordable Warmth Scheme is based on the householder’s gross income which must be less than £20,000. Once the householder satisfies the income criteria, the Housing Executive will check if the landlord is registered with my Department’s Landlord Registration Scheme and will seek the landlord’s permission before commencing any installation work. Once the energy efficiency measures have been installed and Building Control approval received, the Housing Executive will pay the landlord the 50% contribution towards the measures.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035914%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206141","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206141"}},{"id":"206140","reference":"AQW 35913/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-12","answerBy":"2014-09-29","answered":"2014-10-27","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister what steps have been taken to reduce poverty amongst people with disabilities and their families since the launch of the strategy to improve the lives of people with disabilities.","answerText":"The Executive’s Disability Strategy provides a framework for all departments to drive improved service delivery, increase awareness of the needs of people with disabilities and improve opportunities for people with disabilities across all policy areas. It includes a specific priority to reduce poverty among people with disabilities and their families. The Strategy also seeks to protect the right to an adequate standard of living, as well as to address the identified inequalities experienced by people with disabilities and tackle the barriers that they continue to face in their daily lives.\n\nWork is being taken forward, across all departments, to reduce poverty amongst families with children and young people with disabilities. Parents of children with disabilities have particular needs in relation to childcare and may need additional support. The development of childcare services for children with a disability is being taken forward through Bright Start. This will include providing training and small grants to enable childcare providers to meet the needs of children with a disability for childcare services. Through the Family Fund, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety provides grant support to low-income parents raising disabled and/or seriously ill children to help with essentials. Children with a statement of special educational needs and who require a special diet are entitled to Free School Meals, regardless of other criteria.\n\nOFMDFM hosted a major, inclusive disability awareness conference to consider how current arrangements meet the needs of all people with disabilities on the basis of equality in May 2013.\n\nA 2013/14 annual report on the delivery of the Disability Strategy will set out the actions that all departments have undertaken under the Strategy in its first year. We hope to publish the report in Autumn 2014.\n\nWe are currently considering a number of further projects submitted by departments to deliver outcomes under the Disability Strategy, to be taken forward within the Delivering Social Change Framework.","answerHtml":"The Executive’s Disability Strategy provides a framework for all departments to drive improved service delivery, increase awareness of the needs of people with disabilities and improve opportunities for people with disabilities across all policy areas. It includes a specific priority to reduce poverty among people with disabilities and their families. The Strategy also seeks to protect the right to an adequate standard of living, as well as to address the identified inequalities experienced by people with disabilities and tackle the barriers that they continue to face in their daily lives.
Work is being taken forward, across all departments, to reduce poverty amongst families with children and young people with disabilities. Parents of children with disabilities have particular needs in relation to childcare and may need additional support. The development of childcare services for children with a disability is being taken forward through Bright Start. This will include providing training and small grants to enable childcare providers to meet the needs of children with a disability for childcare services. Through the Family Fund, the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety provides grant support to low-income parents raising disabled and/or seriously ill children to help with essentials. Children with a statement of special educational needs and who require a special diet are entitled to Free School Meals, regardless of other criteria.
OFMDFM hosted a major, inclusive disability awareness conference to consider how current arrangements meet the needs of all people with disabilities on the basis of equality in May 2013.
A 2013/14 annual report on the delivery of the Disability Strategy will set out the actions that all departments have undertaken under the Strategy in its first year. We hope to publish the report in Autumn 2014.
We are currently considering a number of further projects submitted by departments to deliver outcomes under the Disability Strategy, to be taken forward within the Delivering Social Change Framework.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035913%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=206140","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=206140"}},{"id":"205879","reference":"AQW 35831/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-11","answerBy":"2014-09-26","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the 'dementia tax’ faced by carers of dementia patients, to cover expenses directly related to their needs, but only partly covered by the Health Service or local council funding.","answerText":"Unlike the rest of the UK, Northern Ireland has an integrated health and social care service, and services for people with dementia are provided by Health and Social Care Trusts.\n\nTrusts do not charge for domiciliary care services, or full costs for meals, transport or day care.\n\nHowever, there is undoubtedly an additional cost associated with any disability, and with “caring” in general. In recognition of this, and in addition to arranging social care support services, Trusts can also provide financial assistance to any carers who are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of their caring role. In the 2012/13 financial year, for example, some 1,938 “one-off” Carers’ Grants were provided to individual carers by Trusts across Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"Unlike the rest of the UK, Northern Ireland has an integrated health and social care service, and services for people with dementia are provided by Health and Social Care Trusts.
Trusts do not charge for domiciliary care services, or full costs for meals, transport or day care.
However, there is undoubtedly an additional cost associated with any disability, and with “caring” in general. In recognition of this, and in addition to arranging social care support services, Trusts can also provide financial assistance to any carers who are experiencing financial difficulties as a result of their caring role. In the 2012/13 financial year, for example, some 1,938 “one-off” Carers’ Grants were provided to individual carers by Trusts across Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035831%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205879","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205879"}},{"id":"205876","reference":"AQW 35830/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-11","answerBy":"2014-09-26","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail (i) the number of applications for social housing in East Londonderry in each of the last three years; and (ii) the average time spent on the social housing waiting list.","answerText":"The information is not available in the format requested because due to a recording system change to the Housing Executive’s Housing Management System in July 2011the figures for 2011/12 are not available.\n\nHowever, the table below provides: -\n\ndetails of the total applicants on the waiting list for East Londonderry at 31 March 2013 and 31 March 2014\n\nthe mean average month/median average month calculations.\n\nWaiting List at 31 March 2013\tWaiting List at 31 March 2014\nTotal Applicants\tMean Average Months\tMedian Average Months\tTotal Applicants\tMean Average Months\tMedian Average Months\n1,863\t29.5\t15.0\t1,790\t30.5\t15.0\n\nThe Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.","answerHtml":"The information is not available in the format requested because due to a recording system change to the Housing Executive’s Housing Management System in July 2011the figures for 2011/12 are not available.
However, the table below provides: -
details of the total applicants on the waiting list for East Londonderry at 31 March 2013 and 31 March 2014
the mean average month/median average month calculations.
| Waiting List at 31 March 2013 | Waiting List at 31 March 2014 | ||||
| Total Applicants | Mean Average Months | Median Average Months | Total Applicants | Mean Average Months | Median Average Months |
| 1,863 | 29.5 | 15.0 | 1,790 | 30.5 | 15.0 |
The Information provided in this response is governed by the Principles and Protocols of the Code of Practice for Official Statistics. This is enforced by UK Statistics Authority.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035830%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205876","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205876"}},{"id":"205875","reference":"AQW 35829/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-11","answerBy":"2014-09-26","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development what steps her Department is taking to address rural crime, particularly farm theft, and to support the PSNI in their efforts in this area.","answerText":"Responsibility for tackling rural crime lies primarily with the PSNI, however my Department, through its Veterinary Service Enforcement Branch (VSEB) and CAFRE, works closely with the PSNI in tackling rural crime, including agriculture related crime.\n\nDARD’s VSEB works with the PSNI in tackling rural crime at an operational level through the sharing of intelligence, the exchange of training and the conducting of joint operations and investigations. In particular VSEB uses its enforcement powers to carry out unannounced inspections of farm animals and premises suspected of involvement in rural crime. More serious criminality is referred to the police and DARD officials assist the police through the provision of expertise. VSEB also participates in multi-agency investigations with other regulators, including the Food Standards Agency, HMRC and cross border agencies.\n\nDARD continues to work with the Department of Justice, the PSNI and representatives of the farming community on a number of joint initiatives aimed at reducing rural crime and raising awareness of action that can be taken to help prevent rural crime, including Farm Watch, the Freeze-branding initiative and the Crimestoppers Campaign.\n\nI have met with the Chief Constable and the Minister of Justice on a number of occasions to highlight my concerns regarding rural crime and the impact it has on the farming community. Reducing levels of rural crime is a key priority of mine and my Department will continue to work closely with the Department of Justice, the PSNI and other partners in seeking to raise awareness and to reduce levels of rural crime, including farm related crime.","answerHtml":"Responsibility for tackling rural crime lies primarily with the PSNI, however my Department, through its Veterinary Service Enforcement Branch (VSEB) and CAFRE, works closely with the PSNI in tackling rural crime, including agriculture related crime.
DARD’s VSEB works with the PSNI in tackling rural crime at an operational level through the sharing of intelligence, the exchange of training and the conducting of joint operations and investigations. In particular VSEB uses its enforcement powers to carry out unannounced inspections of farm animals and premises suspected of involvement in rural crime. More serious criminality is referred to the police and DARD officials assist the police through the provision of expertise. VSEB also participates in multi-agency investigations with other regulators, including the Food Standards Agency, HMRC and cross border agencies.
DARD continues to work with the Department of Justice, the PSNI and representatives of the farming community on a number of joint initiatives aimed at reducing rural crime and raising awareness of action that can be taken to help prevent rural crime, including Farm Watch, the Freeze-branding initiative and the Crimestoppers Campaign.
I have met with the Chief Constable and the Minister of Justice on a number of occasions to highlight my concerns regarding rural crime and the impact it has on the farming community. Reducing levels of rural crime is a key priority of mine and my Department will continue to work closely with the Department of Justice, the PSNI and other partners in seeking to raise awareness and to reduce levels of rural crime, including farm related crime.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035829%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205875","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205875"}},{"id":"205874","reference":"AQW 35828/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-11","answerBy":"2014-09-26","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the number of applicants currently registered on the social housing waiting list.","answerText":"The information is not available in the format requested because the Housing Executive only reports quarterly on the housing waiting list. They advise that at the end of June 2014 there were 39,295 applicants on the waiting List of which 21,450 were in Housing Stress.","answerHtml":"The information is not available in the format requested because the Housing Executive only reports quarterly on the housing waiting list. They advise that at the end of June 2014 there were 39,295 applicants on the waiting List of which 21,450 were in Housing Stress.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035828%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205874","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205874"}},{"id":"205873","reference":"AQW 35827/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-11","answerBy":"2014-09-26","answered":"2014-09-24","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Finance","departmentId":"81","minister":"Minister of Finance and Personnel","question":"To ask the Minister of Finance and Personnel to detail the eligibility criteria for businesses to qualify for the Small Business Relief Scheme; and whether there are plans to extend the scheme beyond 2015.","answerText":"The main eligibility requirement for the scheme is the assessed Net Annual Value (NAV) of a property and relief is paid automatically.\n\nWhile the scheme has a general application across all business sectors, certain property types are not eligible, e.g. advertising hoardings, ATMs, car parks, etc. There are also exclusions in place for multiple property owners (banks, bookmakers, etc.) and for those already in receipt of an exemption (industrial derating, freight transport and sport and recreation).\n\nIn terms of award levels 50% relief is awarded where the NAV is £2,000 or less, 25% relief is provided where the NAV is between £2,001 and £5,000, and a property with an NAV of between £5,001 and £15,000 receives a 20% discount.\n\nIn relation to the future of the scheme, the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP) at the University of Ulster is currently carrying out a full evaluation of the scheme and is due to report findings and recommendations later this month. I will be quickly reviewing these recommendations to allow me to present my proposals on the future of the scheme to the Executive and the Assembly in October.","answerHtml":"The main eligibility requirement for the scheme is the assessed Net Annual Value (NAV) of a property and relief is paid automatically.
While the scheme has a general application across all business sectors, certain property types are not eligible, e.g. advertising hoardings, ATMs, car parks, etc. There are also exclusions in place for multiple property owners (banks, bookmakers, etc.) and for those already in receipt of an exemption (industrial derating, freight transport and sport and recreation).
In terms of award levels 50% relief is awarded where the NAV is £2,000 or less, 25% relief is provided where the NAV is between £2,001 and £5,000, and a property with an NAV of between £5,001 and £15,000 receives a 20% discount.
In relation to the future of the scheme, the Northern Ireland Centre for Economic Policy (NICEP) at the University of Ulster is currently carrying out a full evaluation of the scheme and is due to report findings and recommendations later this month. I will be quickly reviewing these recommendations to allow me to present my proposals on the future of the scheme to the Executive and the Assembly in October.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035827%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205873","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205873"}},{"id":"205685","reference":"AQW 35759/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-10","answerBy":"2014-09-25","answered":"2014-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning, of those students from the (i) Northern Regional College; and (ii) North Western Regional Colleges whose application to either the College Hardship fund or the Further Education fund was rejected, how many were referred to and received support from the other source.","answerText":"In the last five academic years, the number of students studying at the Northern Regional College and North West Regional College who have received funding from Further Education Awards and the Hardship Fund and the number who have had applications rejected from both funds are as follows:\n\nFurther Education College\tAcademic Year\tNumber of students who applied for Further Education Award\tNumber of students who received Further Education Award\tNumber of students whose application was rejected\n(i)NRC\t2013/14\t618\t508\t110\n2012/13\t602\t487\t115\n2011/12\t463*\t463\t*Data not available\n2010/11\t631\t383\t248\n2009/10\t544\t335\t209\n(ii)NWRC\t2013/14\t912\t675\t237\n2012/13\t835\t628\t207\n2011/12\t633*\t633\t*Data not available\n2010/11\t1036\t616\t420\n2009/10\t1033\t639\t394\n\n*Data for 2011/12 not available by college.\n\nFurther Education College\tAcademic Year\tNumber of students who applied for hardship funding\tNumber of students who received hardship funding\tNumber of students whose application was rejected\n(i)NRC\t2013/14\t165\t134\t31\n2012/13\t145\t115\t30\n2011/12\t151\t118\t33\n2010/11\t122\t113\t9\n2009/10\t151\t139\t12\n(ii)NWRC\t2013/14\t516\t424\t92\n2012/13\t579\t480\t99\n2011/12\t469\t388\t81\n2010/11\t457\t362\t95\n2009/10\t592\t511\t81\n\nQuestion AQW 35759/11-15\n\nEligible students must apply through the Western Education and Library Board for a Further Education Award before they can be considered for assistance through college Hardship Funds. Anyone who is refused a Further Education Award is advised individually by the Board that they may apply to their college for help through Hardship Funds.\n\nThe colleges do not record statistical data in the manner requested and so cannot confirm how many students received help through Hardship Funds after being refused assistance through Further Education Awards.","answerHtml":"In the last five academic years, the number of students studying at the Northern Regional College and North West Regional College who have received funding from Further Education Awards and the Hardship Fund and the number who have had applications rejected from both funds are as follows:
| Further Education College | Academic Year | Number of students who applied for Further Education Award | Number of students who received Further Education Award | Number of students whose application was rejected |
| (i)NRC | 2013/14 | 618 | 508 | 110 |
| 2012/13 | 602 | 487 | 115 | |
| 2011/12 | 463* | 463 | *Data not available | |
| 2010/11 | 631 | 383 | 248 | |
| 2009/10 | 544 | 335 | 209 | |
| (ii)NWRC | 2013/14 | 912 | 675 | 237 |
| 2012/13 | 835 | 628 | 207 | |
| 2011/12 | 633* | 633 | *Data not available | |
| 2010/11 | 1036 | 616 | 420 | |
| 2009/10 | 1033 | 639 | 394 |
*Data for 2011/12 not available by college.
| Further Education College | Academic Year | Number of students who applied for hardship funding | Number of students who received hardship funding | Number of students whose application was rejected |
| (i)NRC | 2013/14 | 165 | 134 | 31 |
| 2012/13 | 145 | 115 | 30 | |
| 2011/12 | 151 | 118 | 33 | |
| 2010/11 | 122 | 113 | 9 | |
| 2009/10 | 151 | 139 | 12 | |
| (ii)NWRC | 2013/14 | 516 | 424 | 92 |
| 2012/13 | 579 | 480 | 99 | |
| 2011/12 | 469 | 388 | 81 | |
| 2010/11 | 457 | 362 | 95 | |
| 2009/10 | 592 | 511 | 81 | |
Question AQW 35759/11-15
Eligible students must apply through the Western Education and Library Board for a Further Education Award before they can be considered for assistance through college Hardship Funds. Anyone who is refused a Further Education Award is advised individually by the Board that they may apply to their college for help through Hardship Funds.
The colleges do not record statistical data in the manner requested and so cannot confirm how many students received help through Hardship Funds after being refused assistance through Further Education Awards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035759%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205685","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205685"}},{"id":"205683","reference":"AQW 35758/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-10","answerBy":"2014-09-25","answered":"2014-09-26","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the number of students studying at the (i) Northern Regional College; and (ii) North Western Regional College who have received financial assistance from (a) the Further Education Fund; and (b) College Hardship Funds, in each of the last five years.","answerText":"In the last five academic years, the number of students studying at the Northern Regional College and North West Regional College who have received funding from Further Education Awards and the Hardship Fund and the number who have had applications rejected from both funds are as follows:\n\nFurther Education College\tAcademic Year\tNumber of students who applied for Further Education Award\tNumber of students who received Further Education Award\tNumber of students whose application was rejected\n(i)NRC\t2013/14\t618\t508\t110\n2012/13\t602\t487\t115\n2011/12\t463*\t463\t*Data not available\n2010/11\t631\t383\t248\n2009/10\t544\t335\t209\n(ii)NWRC\t2013/14\t912\t675\t237\n2012/13\t835\t628\t207\n2011/12\t633*\t633\t*Data not available\n2010/11\t1036\t616\t420\n2009/10\t1033\t639\t394\n\n*Data for 2011/12 not available by college.\n\nFurther Education College\tAcademic Year\tNumber of students who applied for hardship funding\tNumber of students who received hardship funding\tNumber of students whose application was rejected\n(i)NRC\t2013/14\t165\t134\t31\n2012/13\t145\t115\t30\n2011/12\t151\t118\t33\n2010/11\t122\t113\t9\n2009/10\t151\t139\t12\n(ii)NWRC\t2013/14\t516\t424\t92\n2012/13\t579\t480\t99\n2011/12\t469\t388\t81\n2010/11\t457\t362\t95\n2009/10\t592\t511\t81\n\nQuestion AQW 35759/11-15\n\nEligible students must apply through the Western Education and Library Board for a Further Education Award before they can be considered for assistance through college Hardship Funds. Anyone who is refused a Further Education Award is advised individually by the Board that they may apply to their college for help through Hardship Funds.\n\nThe colleges do not record statistical data in the manner requested and so cannot confirm how many students received help through Hardship Funds after being refused assistance through Further Education Awards.","answerHtml":"In the last five academic years, the number of students studying at the Northern Regional College and North West Regional College who have received funding from Further Education Awards and the Hardship Fund and the number who have had applications rejected from both funds are as follows:
| Further Education College | Academic Year | Number of students who applied for Further Education Award | Number of students who received Further Education Award | Number of students whose application was rejected |
| (i)NRC | 2013/14 | 618 | 508 | 110 |
| 2012/13 | 602 | 487 | 115 | |
| 2011/12 | 463* | 463 | *Data not available | |
| 2010/11 | 631 | 383 | 248 | |
| 2009/10 | 544 | 335 | 209 | |
| (ii)NWRC | 2013/14 | 912 | 675 | 237 |
| 2012/13 | 835 | 628 | 207 | |
| 2011/12 | 633* | 633 | *Data not available | |
| 2010/11 | 1036 | 616 | 420 | |
| 2009/10 | 1033 | 639 | 394 |
*Data for 2011/12 not available by college.
| Further Education College | Academic Year | Number of students who applied for hardship funding | Number of students who received hardship funding | Number of students whose application was rejected |
| (i)NRC | 2013/14 | 165 | 134 | 31 |
| 2012/13 | 145 | 115 | 30 | |
| 2011/12 | 151 | 118 | 33 | |
| 2010/11 | 122 | 113 | 9 | |
| 2009/10 | 151 | 139 | 12 | |
| (ii)NWRC | 2013/14 | 516 | 424 | 92 |
| 2012/13 | 579 | 480 | 99 | |
| 2011/12 | 469 | 388 | 81 | |
| 2010/11 | 457 | 362 | 95 | |
| 2009/10 | 592 | 511 | 81 | |
Question AQW 35759/11-15
Eligible students must apply through the Western Education and Library Board for a Further Education Award before they can be considered for assistance through college Hardship Funds. Anyone who is refused a Further Education Award is advised individually by the Board that they may apply to their college for help through Hardship Funds.
The colleges do not record statistical data in the manner requested and so cannot confirm how many students received help through Hardship Funds after being refused assistance through Further Education Awards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035758%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205683","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205683"}},{"id":"205679","reference":"AQW 35754/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-10","answerBy":"2014-09-25","answered":"2014-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure how many projects in East Londonderry have been supported through the Creative Industries Innovation Fund (CIIF 2) since 2011.","answerText":"Since 2011, the following projects in your constituency have been supported through the Creative Industries Innovation Fund.\n\nYear\tOrganisation\tProject\tAward\n2011-2012\tAwakin Ltd\tGo Explore NI in 2012\t9,800\n2011-2012\tTreasure Pilgrim Ltd\tTreasure Pilgrim - Online Treasure Hunts with Real Treasure\t10,000\n2012-2013\tUproar Comics\t\"Zombies HI\" The App.\t9,500\n2012-2013\tWhittrick Press LLP\tWhittrick Press\t9,984\n2013-2014\tWhittrick Press LLP\tThe Crumble Giant\t9,900\n2013-2014\tUproar Comics\tGamification Publication\t9,900\nTOTAL\t\t\t59,084","answerHtml":"Since 2011, the following projects in your constituency have been supported through the Creative Industries Innovation Fund.
| Year | Organisation | Project | Award |
| 2011-2012 | Awakin Ltd | Go Explore NI in 2012 | 9,800 |
| 2011-2012 | Treasure Pilgrim Ltd | Treasure Pilgrim - Online Treasure Hunts with Real Treasure | 10,000 |
| 2012-2013 | Uproar Comics | "Zombies HI" The App. | 9,500 |
| 2012-2013 | Whittrick Press LLP | Whittrick Press | 9,984 |
| 2013-2014 | Whittrick Press LLP | The Crumble Giant | 9,900 |
| 2013-2014 | Uproar Comics | Gamification Publication | 9,900 |
| TOTAL | 59,084 |
In the last five academic years, the number of students studying at the Northern Regional College and North West Regional College who have received funding from Further Education Awards and the Hardship Fund and the number who have had applications rejected from both funds are as follows:
| Further Education College | Academic Year | Number of students who applied for Further Education Award | Number of students who received Further Education Award | Number of students whose application was rejected |
| (i)NRC | 2013/14 | 618 | 508 | 110 |
| 2012/13 | 602 | 487 | 115 | |
| 2011/12 | 463* | 463 | *Data not available | |
| 2010/11 | 631 | 383 | 248 | |
| 2009/10 | 544 | 335 | 209 | |
| (ii)NWRC | 2013/14 | 912 | 675 | 237 |
| 2012/13 | 835 | 628 | 207 | |
| 2011/12 | 633* | 633 | *Data not available | |
| 2010/11 | 1036 | 616 | 420 | |
| 2009/10 | 1033 | 639 | 394 |
*Data for 2011/12 not available by college.
| Further Education College | Academic Year | Number of students who applied for hardship funding | Number of students who received hardship funding | Number of students whose application was rejected |
| (i)NRC | 2013/14 | 165 | 134 | 31 |
| 2012/13 | 145 | 115 | 30 | |
| 2011/12 | 151 | 118 | 33 | |
| 2010/11 | 122 | 113 | 9 | |
| 2009/10 | 151 | 139 | 12 | |
| (ii)NWRC | 2013/14 | 516 | 424 | 92 |
| 2012/13 | 579 | 480 | 99 | |
| 2011/12 | 469 | 388 | 81 | |
| 2010/11 | 457 | 362 | 95 | |
| 2009/10 | 592 | 511 | 81 | |
Question AQW 35759/11-15
Eligible students must apply through the Western Education and Library Board for a Further Education Award before they can be considered for assistance through college Hardship Funds. Anyone who is refused a Further Education Award is advised individually by the Board that they may apply to their college for help through Hardship Funds.
The colleges do not record statistical data in the manner requested and so cannot confirm how many students received help through Hardship Funds after being refused assistance through Further Education Awards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035751%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205676","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205676"}},{"id":"205669","reference":"AQW 35744/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-10","answerBy":"2014-09-25","answered":"2014-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"The Executive Office","departmentId":"86","minister":"First Minister and deputy First Minister","question":"To ask the First Minister and deputy First Minister for an update on the devolution of corporation tax.","answerText":"The Government has previously indicated its intention to make a decision on the devolution of Corporation Tax this autumn, with an announcement to be made no later than the coming Autumn Statement, which is expected to be on\n\n3 December 2014.\n\nIn addition, it has previously stated that if it did decide to devolve responsibility for the rate of corporation tax in the autumn, then a stand-alone Bill would be introduced in the normal way, with the aim of it becoming law before the prorogation of Parliament prior to the 2015 Westminster Elections.","answerHtml":"The Government has previously indicated its intention to make a decision on the devolution of Corporation Tax this autumn, with an announcement to be made no later than the coming Autumn Statement, which is expected to be on
3 December 2014.
In addition, it has previously stated that if it did decide to devolve responsibility for the rate of corporation tax in the autumn, then a stand-alone Bill would be introduced in the normal way, with the aim of it becoming law before the prorogation of Parliament prior to the 2015 Westminster Elections.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035744%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205669","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205669"}},{"id":"205592","reference":"AQW 35695/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-09","answerBy":"2014-09-24","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education to detail the timescale for the implementation of changes to the weighting of AS level and A level examinations.","answerText":"The change to the weighting of AS and A level examinations will take effect from September 2016 (first teaching). This is the deadline to which CCEA is working for the review and redesign of A level specifications.\n\nThe weighting issue will not apply to A levels offered by English based awarding organisations, as their AS and A level qualifications will be decoupled in line with qualifications policy in England.","answerHtml":"The change to the weighting of AS and A level examinations will take effect from September 2016 (first teaching). This is the deadline to which CCEA is working for the review and redesign of A level specifications.
The weighting issue will not apply to A levels offered by English based awarding organisations, as their AS and A level qualifications will be decoupled in line with qualifications policy in England.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035695%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205592","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205592"}},{"id":"205591","reference":"AQW 35694/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-09","answerBy":"2014-09-24","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development whether he has any plans to provide revitalisation investment to support existing traders, improve shop frontages and promote the town of Coleraine.","answerText":"Last year my Department contributed grant funding of £280,000 to Coleraine Borough Council to deliver a revitalisation scheme in the Waterside/Bridge Street area of Coleraine. The Council was considering a new revitalisation scheme for the town centre this year but my Department is currently unable to provide funding as its budget is fully committed.\n\nUnder the Reform of Local Government, the new Councils will take on responsibility for delivering regeneration programmes from 1 April 2015. Shadow Councils have now been advised of their annual indicative budget allocations in advance of budget transferring to them. It will be a matter for Causeway Coast and Glens Council to decide its own spending plans and priorities for future regeneration programmes including those for Coleraine.","answerHtml":"Last year my Department contributed grant funding of £280,000 to Coleraine Borough Council to deliver a revitalisation scheme in the Waterside/Bridge Street area of Coleraine. The Council was considering a new revitalisation scheme for the town centre this year but my Department is currently unable to provide funding as its budget is fully committed.
Under the Reform of Local Government, the new Councils will take on responsibility for delivering regeneration programmes from 1 April 2015. Shadow Councils have now been advised of their annual indicative budget allocations in advance of budget transferring to them. It will be a matter for Causeway Coast and Glens Council to decide its own spending plans and priorities for future regeneration programmes including those for Coleraine.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035694%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205591","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205591"}},{"id":"205590","reference":"AQW 35693/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-09","answerBy":"2014-09-24","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action his Department is taking to ensure that all children, regardless of background, achieve a good standard of literacy by eleven.","answerText":"My priorities for education are focused on raising standards and tackling the impact of disadvantage. My policies reflect these priorities. Count, Read: Succeed, the literacy and numeracy strategy, aims to raise attainment levels in both literacy and numeracy and narrow the gap in educational outcomes. The strategy sets out the central role of teachers, supported by parents and school leaders, in their work to raise standards.\n\nWe are moving in the right direction. In the PIRLS and TIMSS studies published in December 2012 we were the highest ranking English speaking region in the world in both reading and numeracy - 5th out of 45 countries surveyed in reading and 6th out of 50 countries surveyed in mathematics.\n\nThe Learning to Learn framework sets early years education and learning services within my overall approach, where the importance of delivering high quality education services for children before and in the first years of compulsory education is recognised. Evidence shows that early years education provision makes a distinctive contribution to helping achieve the wider aims of improving attainment and reducing underachievement, especially in literacy and numeracy.\n\nHowever, we still have too many young people who are not at their expected level in literacy at the end of their primary schooling and schools require additional support to address this underachievement particularly amongst socially disadvantaged pupils. I am therefore continuing to provide funding for a range of additional interventions which focus on those factors which international evidence and best practice tells us will improve outcomes.\n\nThese include the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Literacy Project run by Stranmillis and St Mary’s University Colleges. This offers continuing professional development for teachers to develop their capacity to teach reading, spelling and independent writing skills to children of primary age with special educational needs.\n\nThe Delivering Social Change programme to improve literacy and numeracy is providing an additional teaching resource to 151 primary schools, a community education initiatives programme across all sectors which aims to foster links between schools and their local communities and a Literacy and Numeracy CPD for teachers of English and maths at Key Stages 2 and 3 focusing on high quality teaching and transition from primary to post primary.\n\nThe Education Works advertising campaign is aimed at informing and reminding parents of the importance and value of becoming more involved in their child’s education for example by reading with their children.\n\nSave the Children’s recently published report ‘Read on. Get on’ sets a target of all children reading well at the age of 11 by 2025, and it is interesting to note that the key areas for action are already part of my strategic approach to raising literacy standards.","answerHtml":"My priorities for education are focused on raising standards and tackling the impact of disadvantage. My policies reflect these priorities. Count, Read: Succeed, the literacy and numeracy strategy, aims to raise attainment levels in both literacy and numeracy and narrow the gap in educational outcomes. The strategy sets out the central role of teachers, supported by parents and school leaders, in their work to raise standards.
We are moving in the right direction. In the PIRLS and TIMSS studies published in December 2012 we were the highest ranking English speaking region in the world in both reading and numeracy - 5th out of 45 countries surveyed in reading and 6th out of 50 countries surveyed in mathematics.
The Learning to Learn framework sets early years education and learning services within my overall approach, where the importance of delivering high quality education services for children before and in the first years of compulsory education is recognised. Evidence shows that early years education provision makes a distinctive contribution to helping achieve the wider aims of improving attainment and reducing underachievement, especially in literacy and numeracy.
However, we still have too many young people who are not at their expected level in literacy at the end of their primary schooling and schools require additional support to address this underachievement particularly amongst socially disadvantaged pupils. I am therefore continuing to provide funding for a range of additional interventions which focus on those factors which international evidence and best practice tells us will improve outcomes.
These include the Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Literacy Project run by Stranmillis and St Mary’s University Colleges. This offers continuing professional development for teachers to develop their capacity to teach reading, spelling and independent writing skills to children of primary age with special educational needs.
The Delivering Social Change programme to improve literacy and numeracy is providing an additional teaching resource to 151 primary schools, a community education initiatives programme across all sectors which aims to foster links between schools and their local communities and a Literacy and Numeracy CPD for teachers of English and maths at Key Stages 2 and 3 focusing on high quality teaching and transition from primary to post primary.
The Education Works advertising campaign is aimed at informing and reminding parents of the importance and value of becoming more involved in their child’s education for example by reading with their children.
Save the Children’s recently published report ‘Read on. Get on’ sets a target of all children reading well at the age of 11 by 2025, and it is interesting to note that the key areas for action are already part of my strategic approach to raising literacy standards.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035693%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205590","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205590"}},{"id":"205585","reference":"AQW 35688/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-09","answerBy":"2014-09-24","answered":"2014-09-19","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Infrastructure","departmentId":"84","minister":"Minister for Regional Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Regional Development whether improvements to the Northern Ireland Railways services, particularly developing rail corridors, will lead to increased ticket prices.","answerText":"Northern Ireland Railways receives an annual operating subsidy, Public Service Obligation, from the Department to ensure that rail fares are at a level which supports the Department's objectives of increasing the use of public transport and delivering a more sustainable economy. This will clearly be influenced by the overall budget available to my Department and the operating costs of NI Railways and its ability to generate fare income. Increased rail corridors may or may not increase ticket prices depending upon how they impact on the above.","answerHtml":"Northern Ireland Railways receives an annual operating subsidy, Public Service Obligation, from the Department to ensure that rail fares are at a level which supports the Department's objectives of increasing the use of public transport and delivering a more sustainable economy. This will clearly be influenced by the overall budget available to my Department and the operating costs of NI Railways and its ability to generate fare income. Increased rail corridors may or may not increase ticket prices depending upon how they impact on the above.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035688%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205585","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205585"}},{"id":"205583","reference":"AQW 35686/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-09","answerBy":"2014-09-24","answered":"2014-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice what action his Department has taken to target racist behaviour outside the Belfast area, specifically in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Through the Community Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland 2012 – 2017, my Department is committed to tackling all forms of hate crime, including racist hate crime, and reducing the harm it causes through prevention, awareness and education. My officials are also working with OFMDFM officials, who are responsible for wider racial equality, to tackle race hate and behaviours which may not manifest into crime.\n\nRegionally, the Department of Justice delivers a range of initiatives to tackle hate crime. Examples include part funding a Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme to provide personal protection and safety measures at, or in the vicinity of, the home of a hate crime victim; investing in the hate crime advocacy service to ensure support for victims; and part funding an initiative to identify a Tension Monitoring model with a view to rolling it out to all areas through PCSPs. The Probation Board Northern Ireland and the Youth Justice Agency, among others, are also delivering initiatives to prevent offending through early stage intervention and support a range of programmes to address offending behaviour, including community and restorative approaches. My officials continue to develop links with local groups representing ethnic minorities to increase understanding of the issues faced and to increase confidence in the justice sector.\n\nAt a local level, my Department funds the Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which deliver a range of initiatives to tackle hate crime. For example, in East Londonderry, the PCSPs financially support projects such as ‘Hands off My Friend’ and ‘YES’ which are designed to challenge attitudes that contribute to hate crime. Such projects engage with local schools to educate young people about prejudice and raise awareness of the impact of hate crime. On a practical level, assistance is also offered to victims of racist attacks including arranging community service squads to clean racist graffiti.","answerHtml":"Through the Community Safety Strategy for Northern Ireland 2012 – 2017, my Department is committed to tackling all forms of hate crime, including racist hate crime, and reducing the harm it causes through prevention, awareness and education. My officials are also working with OFMDFM officials, who are responsible for wider racial equality, to tackle race hate and behaviours which may not manifest into crime.
Regionally, the Department of Justice delivers a range of initiatives to tackle hate crime. Examples include part funding a Hate Incident Practical Action Scheme to provide personal protection and safety measures at, or in the vicinity of, the home of a hate crime victim; investing in the hate crime advocacy service to ensure support for victims; and part funding an initiative to identify a Tension Monitoring model with a view to rolling it out to all areas through PCSPs. The Probation Board Northern Ireland and the Youth Justice Agency, among others, are also delivering initiatives to prevent offending through early stage intervention and support a range of programmes to address offending behaviour, including community and restorative approaches. My officials continue to develop links with local groups representing ethnic minorities to increase understanding of the issues faced and to increase confidence in the justice sector.
At a local level, my Department funds the Policing and Community Safety Partnerships (PCSPs) which deliver a range of initiatives to tackle hate crime. For example, in East Londonderry, the PCSPs financially support projects such as ‘Hands off My Friend’ and ‘YES’ which are designed to challenge attitudes that contribute to hate crime. Such projects engage with local schools to educate young people about prejudice and raise awareness of the impact of hate crime. On a practical level, assistance is also offered to victims of racist attacks including arranging community service squads to clean racist graffiti.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035686%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205583","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205583"}},{"id":"205393","reference":"AQW 35605/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-08","answerBy":"2014-09-23","answered":"2014-09-25","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for his assessment of the number of work placements in East Londonderry that are available to students at the Northern and North Western Regional Colleges.","answerText":"According to the North West Regional College, there were 45 work placements in training provision and 113 further education placements in the East Londonderry area in the 2013/14 academic year. Similarly, Northern Regional College have confirmed there were 4 work placements in training and 128 further education placements within the East Londonderry area in the 2013/14 academic year.\n\nThe process of obtaining, monitoring and evaluating work placements takes significant effort by colleges, but is a key element of the student experience and an integral part of their study.\n\nResearch emphasises the importance of work placements. In particular, learners benefit from experience of the work environment to complement their main studies. This is also a very effective way for learners to acquire the all-important employability skills required by employers.\n\nMy Department’s current reviews of further education and youth training are considering how work placements can be included in the most effective way in individual students’ programmes of learning.","answerHtml":"According to the North West Regional College, there were 45 work placements in training provision and 113 further education placements in the East Londonderry area in the 2013/14 academic year. Similarly, Northern Regional College have confirmed there were 4 work placements in training and 128 further education placements within the East Londonderry area in the 2013/14 academic year.
The process of obtaining, monitoring and evaluating work placements takes significant effort by colleges, but is a key element of the student experience and an integral part of their study.
Research emphasises the importance of work placements. In particular, learners benefit from experience of the work environment to complement their main studies. This is also a very effective way for learners to acquire the all-important employability skills required by employers.
My Department’s current reviews of further education and youth training are considering how work placements can be included in the most effective way in individual students’ programmes of learning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035605%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205393","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205393"}},{"id":"205391","reference":"AQW 35603/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-08","answerBy":"2014-09-23","answered":"2014-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment how many new jobs have been created in East Londonderry in the last twelve months.","answerText":"There were 199 new jobs created in the last financial year (2013-14) in the East Londonderry constituency as a direct result of Invest NI support.","answerHtml":"There were 199 new jobs created in the last financial year (2013-14) in the East Londonderry constituency as a direct result of Invest NI support.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035603%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205391","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205391"}},{"id":"205368","reference":"AQW 35583/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-08","answerBy":"2014-09-23","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether he has considered how people who are dependent on the Independent Living Fund will maintain their independence from July 2015.","answerText":"The UK Government decided to close the Independent Living Fund (ILF) with effect from 30 June 2015. I have made it very clear that my Department will do all it can to ensure that those in Northern Ireland who are affected by the decision of the Department for Work and Pensions are not disadvantaged.\n\nMy Department is currently undertaking a full and comprehensive public consultation on how best to support Independent Living Fund (ILF) users in Northern Ireland following the closure of the fund. The consultation closes on 30 November 2014 and I would encourage everyone to share their views on this crucial issue. Following consultation, I will carefully consider the results before deciding on the way forward.","answerHtml":"The UK Government decided to close the Independent Living Fund (ILF) with effect from 30 June 2015. I have made it very clear that my Department will do all it can to ensure that those in Northern Ireland who are affected by the decision of the Department for Work and Pensions are not disadvantaged.
My Department is currently undertaking a full and comprehensive public consultation on how best to support Independent Living Fund (ILF) users in Northern Ireland following the closure of the fund. The consultation closes on 30 November 2014 and I would encourage everyone to share their views on this crucial issue. Following consultation, I will carefully consider the results before deciding on the way forward.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035583%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205368","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205368"}},{"id":"205367","reference":"AQW 35582/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-08","answerBy":"2014-09-23","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the capacity of health services in East Londonderry to deal with the potential health and safety risks of hosting major events.","answerText":"In accordance with good practice guidance, the responsibility to conduct a risk assessment of the health and safety elements arising from a major event, rest with the event organiser. In doing so, the event organiser should ensure that appropriate medical, ambulance and first aid provision is put in place and that any arrangements minimise the impact of the event on local Health and Social Care (HSC) and emergency services.\n\nThe event’s organiser is also responsible for appointing a medical provider who should produce a medical plan which outlines roles and responsibilities and confirms liaison arrangements with the relevant HSC Trust(s). From an emergency planning perspective, the health service should be made aware of a major event from an early stage in order that it can plan appropriately.\n\nThe Northern HSC Trust’s Major Incident Plan and Corporate Business Continuity Plan provide extensive procedures to guide the Trust should a response be required to an emergency arising from a major event. As part of emergency preparedness, representatives from the Northern HSC Trust work closely with councils, event organisers and ‘blue-light’ responders to ensure it is represented in the event multi-agency planning groups and as a member of the ‘Multi-Agency Control Room’ throughout the event, to ensure effective communication should an incident require Trust input. Appropriate Trust services are informed of planned events and co-ordination of Trust preparedness to respond to potential incidents and there is participation in the multi-agency debrief to share any learning points arising from the event.","answerHtml":"In accordance with good practice guidance, the responsibility to conduct a risk assessment of the health and safety elements arising from a major event, rest with the event organiser. In doing so, the event organiser should ensure that appropriate medical, ambulance and first aid provision is put in place and that any arrangements minimise the impact of the event on local Health and Social Care (HSC) and emergency services.
The event’s organiser is also responsible for appointing a medical provider who should produce a medical plan which outlines roles and responsibilities and confirms liaison arrangements with the relevant HSC Trust(s). From an emergency planning perspective, the health service should be made aware of a major event from an early stage in order that it can plan appropriately.
The Northern HSC Trust’s Major Incident Plan and Corporate Business Continuity Plan provide extensive procedures to guide the Trust should a response be required to an emergency arising from a major event. As part of emergency preparedness, representatives from the Northern HSC Trust work closely with councils, event organisers and ‘blue-light’ responders to ensure it is represented in the event multi-agency planning groups and as a member of the ‘Multi-Agency Control Room’ throughout the event, to ensure effective communication should an incident require Trust input. Appropriate Trust services are informed of planned events and co-ordination of Trust preparedness to respond to potential incidents and there is participation in the multi-agency debrief to share any learning points arising from the event.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035582%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205367","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205367"}},{"id":"205366","reference":"AQW 35581/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-08","answerBy":"2014-09-23","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether the required ratio of carers to dependants is being fulfilled in private care homes in East Londonderry.","answerText":"All nursing and residential care homes in both the statutory and private sectors are required to operate in compliance with minimum standards.\n\nThese standards require that at all times there must be enough staff with the appropriate skills to meet the assessed needs of the residents – taking into account the size and layout of the home, as well as the Statement of Purpose and fire safety requirements.\n\nThe Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) is responsible for the registration and inspection of nursing and residential care homes. RQIA provides guidance to registered homes on the minimum staffing levels they should maintain and, through inspection, ensures compliance with these levels.","answerHtml":"All nursing and residential care homes in both the statutory and private sectors are required to operate in compliance with minimum standards.
These standards require that at all times there must be enough staff with the appropriate skills to meet the assessed needs of the residents – taking into account the size and layout of the home, as well as the Statement of Purpose and fire safety requirements.
The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) is responsible for the registration and inspection of nursing and residential care homes. RQIA provides guidance to registered homes on the minimum staffing levels they should maintain and, through inspection, ensures compliance with these levels.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035581%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205366","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205366"}},{"id":"205344","reference":"AQW 35564/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-05","answerBy":"2014-09-22","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety how many people have been admitted to hospital in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust area for alcohol related problems, in the last three years.","answerText":"The number of people admitted to hospital in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust for alcohol-related conditions in each of the last three years, is given in the table below.\n\nHSC Trust\t2011/12\t2012/13\t2013/14\nNorthern\t839\t858\t1,124\n\nSource: Hospital Inpatient System","answerHtml":"The number of people admitted to hospital in the Northern Health and Social Care Trust for alcohol-related conditions in each of the last three years, is given in the table below.
| HSC Trust | 2011/12 | 2012/13 | 2013/14 |
| Northern | 839 | 858 | 1,124 |
Source: Hospital Inpatient System
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035564%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205344","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205344"}},{"id":"205343","reference":"AQW 35563/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-05","answerBy":"2014-09-22","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the departmental services, provided through statutory and non-statutory bodies, to address the needs of alcohol and drug dependents in East Londonderry.","answerText":"Through my Department’s New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs Phase Two, the Health & Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency commission a full range of alcohol and drug services – from education and prevention through to treatment and support – that are provided across the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trust areas, both by Statutory and Voluntary/Community sectors.\n\nDetails of the full range of alcohol and drug services, for both young people and adults, in both the Northern and Western areas can be found by accessing the following links:\n\nhttp://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/DrugsAlcohol_Directory_Northern_12_12.pdf\n\nhttp://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/DrugsAlcohol_Directory_Western_12_12.pdf","answerHtml":"Through my Department’s New Strategic Direction for Alcohol and Drugs Phase Two, the Health & Social Care Board and the Public Health Agency commission a full range of alcohol and drug services – from education and prevention through to treatment and support – that are provided across the Northern and Western Health and Social Care Trust areas, both by Statutory and Voluntary/Community sectors.
Details of the full range of alcohol and drug services, for both young people and adults, in both the Northern and Western areas can be found by accessing the following links:
http://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/DrugsAlcohol_Directory_Northern_12_12.pdf
http://www.publichealth.hscni.net/sites/default/files/DrugsAlcohol_Directory_Western_12_12.pdf
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035563%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205343","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205343"}},{"id":"205342","reference":"AQW 35562/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-05","answerBy":"2014-09-22","answered":"2014-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Education","departmentId":"78","minister":"Minister of Education","question":"To ask the Minister of Education what action his Department is taking to ensure that eleven to eighteen year olds are made aware of the dangers of drug and alcohol abuse.","answerText":"All grant-aided schools must have a drugs education policy in place.\n\nThrough the statutory curriculum, opportunities are provided for children and young people to develop the knowledge and skills to deal with issues such as drug and alcohol abuse. At primary school this is provided through the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding Area of Learning and, at post-primary school, through the Learning for Life and Work Area of Learning. As with all aspects of the curriculum the specifics of what is taught and how it is taught is a matter for each teacher/school.\n\nWhile the decision on resources to be used for delivery of the curriculum is a matter for each teacher/school, the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) in partnership with the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) have made available curriculum resources for primary and post primary schools to support the delivery of the Personal Development Curriculum through a life skills based approach. The current resource for primary schools “Living Learning Together” and post primary schools “Insync” allow for the delivery of universal drug prevention education.\n\nThe Department also provides schools with guidance in relation to drugs. CCEA has been commissioned to review and update current guidance. It is intended that this work will be completed during 2014/15.\n\nFunding which is allocated by my Department to the ELBs and the Youth Council for youth provision may be used, as part of an overall youth development programme, to support drugs and alcohol awareness sessions for young people where these are deemed appropriate.\n\nIn addition, the Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS), which is directly funded by the Department, provides professional counselling to children and young people at vulnerable times in their lives, including those experiencing difficulties as the result of drug and alcohol abuse. It is available to all post-primary schools. In addition, information for pupils developed through the i-Matter programme is issued to all post primary schools and includes information on ‘drugs, alcohol and smoking’ and details or sources of further information and help.","answerHtml":"All grant-aided schools must have a drugs education policy in place.
Through the statutory curriculum, opportunities are provided for children and young people to develop the knowledge and skills to deal with issues such as drug and alcohol abuse. At primary school this is provided through the Personal Development and Mutual Understanding Area of Learning and, at post-primary school, through the Learning for Life and Work Area of Learning. As with all aspects of the curriculum the specifics of what is taught and how it is taught is a matter for each teacher/school.
While the decision on resources to be used for delivery of the curriculum is a matter for each teacher/school, the Education and Library Boards (ELBs) in partnership with the Council for Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) have made available curriculum resources for primary and post primary schools to support the delivery of the Personal Development Curriculum through a life skills based approach. The current resource for primary schools “Living Learning Together” and post primary schools “Insync” allow for the delivery of universal drug prevention education.
The Department also provides schools with guidance in relation to drugs. CCEA has been commissioned to review and update current guidance. It is intended that this work will be completed during 2014/15.
Funding which is allocated by my Department to the ELBs and the Youth Council for youth provision may be used, as part of an overall youth development programme, to support drugs and alcohol awareness sessions for young people where these are deemed appropriate.
In addition, the Independent Counselling Service for Schools (ICSS), which is directly funded by the Department, provides professional counselling to children and young people at vulnerable times in their lives, including those experiencing difficulties as the result of drug and alcohol abuse. It is available to all post-primary schools. In addition, information for pupils developed through the i-Matter programme is issued to all post primary schools and includes information on ‘drugs, alcohol and smoking’ and details or sources of further information and help.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035562%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205342","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205342"}},{"id":"205341","reference":"AQW 35561/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-05","answerBy":"2014-09-22","answered":"2014-09-18","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for an update on the prospects of the extension of the Cancer Drugs Fund to include Northern Ireland, giving local cancer patients access to life-extending cancer drugs.","answerText":"I am sympathetic to the establishment of a Specialist Drugs Fund which would not only be available for unapproved cancer drugs but would apply to other serious conditions. However, I could only establish such a fund by diverting funding from existing services or by raising money. One means I am considering is a prescription charge. This would be subject to public consultation and Executive approval. Any charge should be modest and not punitive to individuals who are unable to pay such a charge.","answerHtml":"I am sympathetic to the establishment of a Specialist Drugs Fund which would not only be available for unapproved cancer drugs but would apply to other serious conditions. However, I could only establish such a fund by diverting funding from existing services or by raising money. One means I am considering is a prescription charge. This would be subject to public consultation and Executive approval. Any charge should be modest and not punitive to individuals who are unable to pay such a charge.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035561%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205341","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205341"}},{"id":"205340","reference":"AQW 35560/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-05","answerBy":"2014-09-22","answered":"2014-09-22","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on the Programme for Government 2011/15 Commitment 7 to increase visitor numbers to 4.2m and tourist revenue to £676m by December 2014.","answerText":"All Programme for Government (PfG) targets on tourism have been achieved to date.\n\nThe latest full year Official Statistics on tourism are for 2013 and these figures show that the PfG milestone targets on visitor numbers and tourist revenue were met. Total visitor numbers for 2013 were 4.1 million with visitor expenditure of £723million against targets of 4.1 million visitors and revenue of £637million.\n\nStatistics for the first quarter of 2014 (January to March) were published by NISRA on 17 July 2014. These show that total visitor numbers increased by 2% for the first 3 months of 2014 when compared to January to March 2013, with associated expenditure from these visitors up by 10% when compared to the first quarter of 2013.\n\nFull year statistics for 2014 will not be published until spring 2015.","answerHtml":"All Programme for Government (PfG) targets on tourism have been achieved to date.
The latest full year Official Statistics on tourism are for 2013 and these figures show that the PfG milestone targets on visitor numbers and tourist revenue were met. Total visitor numbers for 2013 were 4.1 million with visitor expenditure of £723million against targets of 4.1 million visitors and revenue of £637million.
Statistics for the first quarter of 2014 (January to March) were published by NISRA on 17 July 2014. These show that total visitor numbers increased by 2% for the first 3 months of 2014 when compared to January to March 2013, with associated expenditure from these visitors up by 10% when compared to the first quarter of 2013.
Full year statistics for 2014 will not be published until spring 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035560%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205340","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205340"}},{"id":"205209","reference":"AQW 35500/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-04","answerBy":"2014-09-19","answered":"2014-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety whether the consultation on a bill containing provisions aimed at restricting the sale of products that contain nicotine will also consider restricting how electronic cigarettes can be used.","answerText":"The draft Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill was issued for a twelve-week consultation on 1 September 2014.\n\nProvisions relating to electronic cigarettes in the draft Bill are restricted to the age of sale for these products, therefore, respondents have been asked to comment on this issue only. Views have not been sought on restricting the use of electronic cigarettes in indoor spaces.","answerHtml":"The draft Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill was issued for a twelve-week consultation on 1 September 2014.
Provisions relating to electronic cigarettes in the draft Bill are restricted to the age of sale for these products, therefore, respondents have been asked to comment on this issue only. Views have not been sought on restricting the use of electronic cigarettes in indoor spaces.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035500%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205209","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205209"}},{"id":"205206","reference":"AQW 35499/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-04","answerBy":"2014-09-19","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development what action his Department is taking to increase awareness amongst tenants of the importance of checking that their landlords have registered with the Landlord Registration Scheme.","answerText":"My Department takes a multifaceted approach to increasing awareness of the Landlord Registration Scheme for both landlords and tenants.\n\nThe original advertising campaign comprised of (television, online and printed media) advertisements and leaflets highlighting the requirement on landlords to register and the responsibility on tenants and potential tenants to check that their landlord is registered.\n\nIn June and July, my Department delivered a series of road shows for Environmental Health Officers from each Council in Northern Ireland. At these road shows, the original message was reinforced through a website demonstration, a presentation and additional distribution of leaflets. During September, my Department is attending seven University “freshers” events across Northern Ireland, allowing direct communication with current and potential student tenants as well as university support staff. The focus of this planned communication will be on the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. The requirement on landlords to register will form a significant aspect of this.\n\nA further advertising campaign is planned to commence in November. It is envisaged its key messages will be:\n\nAll landlords are required to register by February 2015;\n\nAll tenants should check that their landlord is registered; and\n\nTenants should report unregistered landlords to their local Council.\n\nIt is likely that these communication initiatives will be reviewed in the first half of 2015.","answerHtml":"My Department takes a multifaceted approach to increasing awareness of the Landlord Registration Scheme for both landlords and tenants.
The original advertising campaign comprised of (television, online and printed media) advertisements and leaflets highlighting the requirement on landlords to register and the responsibility on tenants and potential tenants to check that their landlord is registered.
In June and July, my Department delivered a series of road shows for Environmental Health Officers from each Council in Northern Ireland. At these road shows, the original message was reinforced through a website demonstration, a presentation and additional distribution of leaflets. During September, my Department is attending seven University “freshers” events across Northern Ireland, allowing direct communication with current and potential student tenants as well as university support staff. The focus of this planned communication will be on the rights and responsibilities of both tenants and landlords. The requirement on landlords to register will form a significant aspect of this.
A further advertising campaign is planned to commence in November. It is envisaged its key messages will be:
All landlords are required to register by February 2015;
All tenants should check that their landlord is registered; and
Tenants should report unregistered landlords to their local Council.
It is likely that these communication initiatives will be reviewed in the first half of 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035499%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205206","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205206"}},{"id":"205205","reference":"AQW 35498/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-04","answerBy":"2014-09-19","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning whether he plans to establish links with agencies (i) outside of Belfast; and (ii) specifically in East Londonderry, who offer work experience placements through the Youth Employment Scheme (YES), recruit unemployed jobseekers and avail of the Steps to Work and YES employer subsidies.","answerText":"In response to your question above, there are currently no plans to establish formal links with employment agencies throughout Northern Ireland in relation to the Youth Employment Scheme work experience placement / employer subsidies, or the Steps to Work employer subsidies.\n\nHowever, I can confirm that as part of the Department for Employment and Learning’s Employer Engagement Strategy, Employer Engagement Teams (EETs) have been established throughout Northern Ireland to actively engage with local employers, councils, support organisations and economic development organisations to secure both work experience and jobs.\n\nAs part of this service these teams deliver large scale employer events such as Job Fair and Advice Forums targeted at meeting local labour market needs and maximising placement / job opportunities for clients who maybe participating on the Department’s provision. Specifically in relation to East Londonderry, events have previously been held in Coleraine and Ballymena, with one scheduled this month for Ballymoney.\n\nIn addition, the EETs engage directly with employers on a one-to-one basis, again with the aim of encouraging, ensuring that a range of training and employment opportunities are available in DEL’s programmes including the Youth Employment Scheme (YES) and Steps to Work (StW).\n\nEmployment Service Advisers, based in local Jobs and Benefits offices and JobCentres across NI, engage with each client to determine employability, potential occupational areas to meet local labour needs and the relevant skills required. The Advisers, with appropriate support from the Employer Engagement Teams, may then source relevant work experience placements with employers and / or local organisations.","answerHtml":"In response to your question above, there are currently no plans to establish formal links with employment agencies throughout Northern Ireland in relation to the Youth Employment Scheme work experience placement / employer subsidies, or the Steps to Work employer subsidies.
However, I can confirm that as part of the Department for Employment and Learning’s Employer Engagement Strategy, Employer Engagement Teams (EETs) have been established throughout Northern Ireland to actively engage with local employers, councils, support organisations and economic development organisations to secure both work experience and jobs.
As part of this service these teams deliver large scale employer events such as Job Fair and Advice Forums targeted at meeting local labour market needs and maximising placement / job opportunities for clients who maybe participating on the Department’s provision. Specifically in relation to East Londonderry, events have previously been held in Coleraine and Ballymena, with one scheduled this month for Ballymoney.
In addition, the EETs engage directly with employers on a one-to-one basis, again with the aim of encouraging, ensuring that a range of training and employment opportunities are available in DEL’s programmes including the Youth Employment Scheme (YES) and Steps to Work (StW).
Employment Service Advisers, based in local Jobs and Benefits offices and JobCentres across NI, engage with each client to determine employability, potential occupational areas to meet local labour needs and the relevant skills required. The Advisers, with appropriate support from the Employer Engagement Teams, may then source relevant work experience placements with employers and / or local organisations.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035498%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205205","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205205"}},{"id":"205202","reference":"AQW 35497/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-04","answerBy":"2014-09-19","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment for an update on the number of jobs that the new Seamus Heaney Interpretive Centre in Bellaghy, Londonderry, will create.","answerText":"The applicant, Magherafelt District Council, has advised that a minimum of five jobs will be created.","answerHtml":"The applicant, Magherafelt District Council, has advised that a minimum of five jobs will be created.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035497%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205202","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205202"}},{"id":"205201","reference":"AQW 35496/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-04","answerBy":"2014-09-19","answered":"2014-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure what communication her Department has had with relevant stakeholders in East Londonderry regarding how they can use the creative arts industry on the North Coast to boost local business.","answerText":"In March 2014 DCAL ‘Roadshows’ were held in Limavady and Coleraine to raise awareness of the value of cultural led approaches to tackling social and economic disadvantage. The events included a diverse range of representatives from the community and voluntary sector and local government departments. Discussions explored local economic and social issues and the contribution the wider DCAL family can make to developing innovative approaches and partnerships.\n\nThis reinforced the importance of coordination and taking forward joined-up approaches across the North West. My Department has a strategic focus on developing the North West, including Limavady, Coleraine, Derry and Strabane, as a hub for the creative industries and social innovation. Moving forward my officials will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to advance this aim.\n\nThe North Coast is also gaining further international acclaim as a location for film and television production. The recent filming of Game of Thrones in areas such as Downhill Beach brings a range of business activity into the area and generates considerable public and international interest which can provide a long term boost to tourism.","answerHtml":"In March 2014 DCAL ‘Roadshows’ were held in Limavady and Coleraine to raise awareness of the value of cultural led approaches to tackling social and economic disadvantage. The events included a diverse range of representatives from the community and voluntary sector and local government departments. Discussions explored local economic and social issues and the contribution the wider DCAL family can make to developing innovative approaches and partnerships.
This reinforced the importance of coordination and taking forward joined-up approaches across the North West. My Department has a strategic focus on developing the North West, including Limavady, Coleraine, Derry and Strabane, as a hub for the creative industries and social innovation. Moving forward my officials will continue to work with relevant stakeholders to advance this aim.
The North Coast is also gaining further international acclaim as a location for film and television production. The recent filming of Game of Thrones in areas such as Downhill Beach brings a range of business activity into the area and generates considerable public and international interest which can provide a long term boost to tourism.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035496%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205201","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205201"}},{"id":"205078","reference":"AQW 35420/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-03","answerBy":"2014-09-18","answered":"2014-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for her assessment of the number of people completing Post Graduate Diplomas in Education in the last three years, compared with the number of newly created jobs in this field.","answerText":"My Department has not made any assessment of these issues as it does not have a remit for them. Matters relating to Further and Higher Education are the responsibility of the Minister for Employment and Learning.","answerHtml":"My Department has not made any assessment of these issues as it does not have a remit for them. Matters relating to Further and Higher Education are the responsibility of the Minister for Employment and Learning.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035420%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205078","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205078"}},{"id":"205077","reference":"AQW 35419/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-03","answerBy":"2014-09-18","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning for an update on his Department’s commitment to maintaining the existing Executive policy of freezing tuition fees at their current level.","answerText":"I remain committed to maintaining Executive policy of freezing tuition fees at their current levels subject only to inflationary increases for full time undergraduate Northern Ireland and European domiciled students studying in Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"I remain committed to maintaining Executive policy of freezing tuition fees at their current levels subject only to inflationary increases for full time undergraduate Northern Ireland and European domiciled students studying in Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035419%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205077","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205077"}},{"id":"205076","reference":"AQW 35418/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-03","answerBy":"2014-09-18","answered":"2014-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Justice","departmentId":"134","minister":"Minister of Justice","question":"To ask the Minister of Justice to detail (i) the number of reported incidences of domestic violence abuse in each of the last five years; and (ii) the percentage of these complaints that resulted in prosecution.","answerText":"The recording of incidents of domestic abuse is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Policing Board.\n\nYou may therefore wish to direct your question to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.","answerHtml":"The recording of incidents of domestic abuse is a matter for the Chief Constable, who is accountable to the Northern Ireland Policing Board. I am committed to respecting the operational independence of the Chief Constable and the role of the Policing Board.
You may therefore wish to direct your question to the Police Service of Northern Ireland.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035418%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205076","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205076"}},{"id":"205075","reference":"AQW 35417/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-03","answerBy":"2014-09-18","answered":"2014-09-17","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of the Environment","departmentId":"80","minister":"Minister of the Environment","question":"To ask the Minister of the Environment how her Department has sought to better manage local heritage sites in the Coleraine area, and explore the potential value of such sites for local business.","answerText":"My Department directly manages ten historic monuments in the Coleraine District Council Area, as State Care Monuments, including Dunluce Castle.\n\nTo conserve and promote local heritage sites, my Department continues to work closely with industry and owners, and to invest in these unique assets to ensure their protection and to realise their full potential value for local businesses.\n\nFor example, Mountsandel Fort suffered from a substantial landslide last December and DOE subsequently funded repair works to the value of over £28,000 to consolidate the impacted area of the mound and make it safe once again for visitors.\n\nAt Dunluce Castle, my Department is currently working with the NITB, Heritage Lottery Fund and local stakeholders to provide a unique heritage destination that complements other major tourist attractions on the north coast, by revealing the lost town of Dunluce and providing a world class visitor centre experience.\n\nThis project offers fantastic opportunities for partnership, not only with bodies such as NITB, the National Trust and the Causeway Coast and Glens Council, but also with the surrounding community.\n\nIn addition to Dunluce and Mountsandel, there are a number of other local heritage sites: namely\n\nState Care Monuments:Nature Reserves:\n\nBallintemple BullaunAltikeeragh\n\nDunalis SouterrainPortrush\n\nGortycaven Mound\n\nLissanduff Earthworks\n\nMill Loughan Motte\n\nTamnyrankin Court Tomb\n\nI will continue to both preserve their condition and explore their potential value to the local economy.","answerHtml":"My Department directly manages ten historic monuments in the Coleraine District Council Area, as State Care Monuments, including Dunluce Castle.
To conserve and promote local heritage sites, my Department continues to work closely with industry and owners, and to invest in these unique assets to ensure their protection and to realise their full potential value for local businesses.
For example, Mountsandel Fort suffered from a substantial landslide last December and DOE subsequently funded repair works to the value of over £28,000 to consolidate the impacted area of the mound and make it safe once again for visitors.
At Dunluce Castle, my Department is currently working with the NITB, Heritage Lottery Fund and local stakeholders to provide a unique heritage destination that complements other major tourist attractions on the north coast, by revealing the lost town of Dunluce and providing a world class visitor centre experience.
This project offers fantastic opportunities for partnership, not only with bodies such as NITB, the National Trust and the Causeway Coast and Glens Council, but also with the surrounding community.
In addition to Dunluce and Mountsandel, there are a number of other local heritage sites: namely
State Care Monuments:Nature Reserves:
Ballintemple BullaunAltikeeragh
Dunalis SouterrainPortrush
Gortycaven Mound
Lissanduff Earthworks
Mill Loughan Motte
Tamnyrankin Court Tomb
I will continue to both preserve their condition and explore their potential value to the local economy.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035417%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205075","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205075"}},{"id":"205046","reference":"AQW 35409/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-03","answerBy":"2014-09-18","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development for his assessment of the resources available to the Northern Ireland Housing Executive to ensure the safeguarding of vulnerable adults as Housing Executive customers.","answerText":"The Housing Executive has advised that safeguarding vulnerable adults who use their offices and services is a matter of priority. The Housing Executive has a zero-tolerance of abuse wherever it occurs and has in place a robust and effective policy to address abuse of vulnerable adults. This policy is supported by resources to ensure effective and efficient responses to allegations of abuse, concerns that abuse may have taken place or disclosures of abuse from vulnerable adults.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Policy is intended to cover all functions and services of the Housing Executive where there is the potential for direct or indirect contact with vulnerable adults.\n\nThe safeguarding policy applies to everyone involved with the organisation, including members of the Housing Executive Board, senior and all managers, staff, vulnerable adults and their carers, advocates and visitors. The Housing Executive also requires all contractors, groups, and organisations that use its premises or services, or organisations that are funded by the Housing Executive to provide services, to have an acceptable Vulnerable Adults Safeguarding Policy in place.\n\nThe Housing Executive’s Director of Corporate Services has ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with this policy. Day to day responsibility for implementation is delegated through the management structure to the Equality Unit Manager. Managers have a responsibility to ensure this policy is complied with by staff and any other persons associated with their functional responsibility.","answerHtml":"The Housing Executive has advised that safeguarding vulnerable adults who use their offices and services is a matter of priority. The Housing Executive has a zero-tolerance of abuse wherever it occurs and has in place a robust and effective policy to address abuse of vulnerable adults. This policy is supported by resources to ensure effective and efficient responses to allegations of abuse, concerns that abuse may have taken place or disclosures of abuse from vulnerable adults.
The Housing Executive’s Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Policy is intended to cover all functions and services of the Housing Executive where there is the potential for direct or indirect contact with vulnerable adults.
The safeguarding policy applies to everyone involved with the organisation, including members of the Housing Executive Board, senior and all managers, staff, vulnerable adults and their carers, advocates and visitors. The Housing Executive also requires all contractors, groups, and organisations that use its premises or services, or organisations that are funded by the Housing Executive to provide services, to have an acceptable Vulnerable Adults Safeguarding Policy in place.
The Housing Executive’s Director of Corporate Services has ultimate responsibility for ensuring compliance with this policy. Day to day responsibility for implementation is delegated through the management structure to the Equality Unit Manager. Managers have a responsibility to ensure this policy is complied with by staff and any other persons associated with their functional responsibility.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035409%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=205046","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=205046"}},{"id":"204956","reference":"AQW 35359/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-02","answerBy":"2014-09-17","answered":"2014-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety for his assessment of the current regulation concerning the quality of care for vulnerable and older people in care homes.","answerText":"The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) has responsibility to regulate a wide range of specified services delivered by both HSC bodies and the independent sector, including nursing homes and residential care homes. My Department published minimum care standards for both nursing and residential care homes in 2008. RQIA uses these standards and the corresponding regulations as the basis for regulation of the sectors. These standards set the benchmark for the quality of care that residents can expect to receive.\n\nIn 2013, my Department began a review of the minimum standards for nursing homes and the revised standards are currently undergoing public consultation.\n\nMy Department is also taking forward the development of the Adult Safeguarding Policy in partnership with the Department of Justice, to: ‘introduce a package of measures aimed at improving safeguarding outcomes for children and vulnerable adults across Northern Ireland’. The objectives supporting this policy will range from the prevention of adult abuse through implementation of good safeguarding arrangements, to effective protective responses from lead protection agencies when adult abuse occurs or is suspected. The intention is to publish the finalised policy in 2015.","answerHtml":"The Regulation and Quality Improvement Authority (RQIA) has responsibility to regulate a wide range of specified services delivered by both HSC bodies and the independent sector, including nursing homes and residential care homes. My Department published minimum care standards for both nursing and residential care homes in 2008. RQIA uses these standards and the corresponding regulations as the basis for regulation of the sectors. These standards set the benchmark for the quality of care that residents can expect to receive.
In 2013, my Department began a review of the minimum standards for nursing homes and the revised standards are currently undergoing public consultation.
My Department is also taking forward the development of the Adult Safeguarding Policy in partnership with the Department of Justice, to: ‘introduce a package of measures aimed at improving safeguarding outcomes for children and vulnerable adults across Northern Ireland’. The objectives supporting this policy will range from the prevention of adult abuse through implementation of good safeguarding arrangements, to effective protective responses from lead protection agencies when adult abuse occurs or is suspected. The intention is to publish the finalised policy in 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035359%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204956","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204956"}},{"id":"204955","reference":"AQW 35358/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-02","answerBy":"2014-09-17","answered":"2014-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment for an update on more efficient broadband provision in rural areas of East Londonderry.","answerText":"On 4 February 2014 my Department signed a contract with BT for delivery of the c£23.5million Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement project, which aims to provide improvements in access to basic and superfast fixed-line broadband services. It is anticipated that this project will bring more choice and improved broadband speeds to over 45,000 premises across Northern Ireland by the end of 2015.\n\nThe project is being delivered in eight phases which seeks to ensure that the project delivers benefit to the maximum number of premises while maintaining best value for money.\n\nOn 23 July we published details on NI Direct of the first implementation area to be completed and further details will be published as the roll-out continues. A list of the high level postcode areas where improvements are expected to take place has also been included with proposed completion dates and this includes areas of East Londonderry. The information can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/ broadband-improvement-project.htm.\n\nDETI has also been indicatively allocated £7.24million by Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) for the extension of superfast broadband and which it is seeking to match, providing a potential funding pot of £14.48million.\n\nOn 26 August my Department commenced a public consultation on the proposed intervention area for a further project, to extend superfast broadband services to at least 95% of premises across Northern Ireland by 2017. The consultation document can be found at http://www.detini.gov.uk/index/what-we-do/deti-telecoms-index/consultations_from_2014/superfast_rollout_programme_phase_2.htm. If value for money is demonstrated, a mini-competition will be taken forward, using the existing BDUK framework and it is anticipated that a contract award may take place in early 2015.","answerHtml":"On 4 February 2014 my Department signed a contract with BT for delivery of the c£23.5million Northern Ireland Broadband Improvement project, which aims to provide improvements in access to basic and superfast fixed-line broadband services. It is anticipated that this project will bring more choice and improved broadband speeds to over 45,000 premises across Northern Ireland by the end of 2015.
The project is being delivered in eight phases which seeks to ensure that the project delivers benefit to the maximum number of premises while maintaining best value for money.
On 23 July we published details on NI Direct of the first implementation area to be completed and further details will be published as the roll-out continues. A list of the high level postcode areas where improvements are expected to take place has also been included with proposed completion dates and this includes areas of East Londonderry. The information can be found at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/ broadband-improvement-project.htm.
DETI has also been indicatively allocated £7.24million by Broadband Delivery UK (BDUK) for the extension of superfast broadband and which it is seeking to match, providing a potential funding pot of £14.48million.
On 26 August my Department commenced a public consultation on the proposed intervention area for a further project, to extend superfast broadband services to at least 95% of premises across Northern Ireland by 2017. The consultation document can be found at http://www.detini.gov.uk/index/what-we-do/deti-telecoms-index/consultations_from_2014/superfast_rollout_programme_phase_2.htm. If value for money is demonstrated, a mini-competition will be taken forward, using the existing BDUK framework and it is anticipated that a contract award may take place in early 2015.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035358%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204955","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204955"}},{"id":"204954","reference":"AQW 35357/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-02","answerBy":"2014-09-17","answered":"2014-09-11","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning how his Department informs further and higher education students of the Student Hardship Fund, Further Education Awards, and other available student welfare provisions.","answerText":"In Further Education, financial assistance to students is provided through Further Education Awards and college Hardship Funds. These are advertised extensively through a variety of media. Further Education Awards are promoted through a television advertising campaign during May and June each year. In addition each college promotes both funds through the following channels: prospectuses, websites, prominently displayed posters and a variety of funding guidance literature including flyers, mail drops and information in college diaries. Funding advice is also provided at each induction session. An application form and further information regarding Further Education Awards can be found at http://www.education-support.org.uk/. Information regarding Hardship Funds can be obtained from college websites or by contacting student funding staff in each college.\n\nHigher Education offers additional support to students in the form of the means tested Higher Education Support Funds, available through Northern Ireland Higher Education Universities and Colleges. The funds can be used to help students who are experiencing financial hardship. The Department informs and promotes the funds through the Student Finance NI and NIDirect websites. Each year the Department drafts and distributes the Higher Education booklet; Support Funds – Conditions of funding for Higher Education Institutions in Northern Ireland to Queens University Belfast, the University of Ulster, St Marys College and Stranmillis College. Electronic versions of the publication can also be downloaded from the NIDirect website: www.nidirect.gov.uk and the DEL website: www.delni.gov.uk .","answerHtml":"In Further Education, financial assistance to students is provided through Further Education Awards and college Hardship Funds. These are advertised extensively through a variety of media. Further Education Awards are promoted through a television advertising campaign during May and June each year. In addition each college promotes both funds through the following channels: prospectuses, websites, prominently displayed posters and a variety of funding guidance literature including flyers, mail drops and information in college diaries. Funding advice is also provided at each induction session. An application form and further information regarding Further Education Awards can be found at http://www.education-support.org.uk/. Information regarding Hardship Funds can be obtained from college websites or by contacting student funding staff in each college.
Higher Education offers additional support to students in the form of the means tested Higher Education Support Funds, available through Northern Ireland Higher Education Universities and Colleges. The funds can be used to help students who are experiencing financial hardship. The Department informs and promotes the funds through the Student Finance NI and NIDirect websites. Each year the Department drafts and distributes the Higher Education booklet; Support Funds – Conditions of funding for Higher Education Institutions in Northern Ireland to Queens University Belfast, the University of Ulster, St Marys College and Stranmillis College. Electronic versions of the publication can also be downloaded from the NIDirect website: www.nidirect.gov.uk and the DEL website: www.delni.gov.uk .
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035357%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204954","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204954"}},{"id":"204953","reference":"AQW 35356/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-02","answerBy":"2014-09-17","answered":"2014-09-12","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment what financial provision is available to small and medium-sized enterprises in East Londonderry to expand following initial set-up.","answerText":"Invest NI works with businesses across Northern Ireland providing a comprehensive range of support to existing businesses and entrepreneurs who are already or have the potential to trade outside of Northern Ireland.\n\nInvest NI targets its financial support to businesses operating within the manufacturing and services sectors which have export potential, as these are the sectors capable of generating net income for the Northern Ireland economy.\n\nWhen assessing a business case for support, Invest NI looks for an increase in turnover, export sales and employment levels as a result of any financial assistance that may be offered. When financial support is offered, it is tailored to meet the individual needs of the business.\n\nFinancial support may be available to businesses to help with employment, exporting, research & development and other specific areas of business improvement.\n\nInvest NI has a dedicated support team in place to deal with business enquiries. The\n\ntelephone number is 0800 181 4422. Alternatively I would encourage your constituents to contact Invest NI’s regional office in Londonderry (telephone 028 7126 7257) to discuss the range of support currently available.","answerHtml":"Invest NI works with businesses across Northern Ireland providing a comprehensive range of support to existing businesses and entrepreneurs who are already or have the potential to trade outside of Northern Ireland.
Invest NI targets its financial support to businesses operating within the manufacturing and services sectors which have export potential, as these are the sectors capable of generating net income for the Northern Ireland economy.
When assessing a business case for support, Invest NI looks for an increase in turnover, export sales and employment levels as a result of any financial assistance that may be offered. When financial support is offered, it is tailored to meet the individual needs of the business.
Financial support may be available to businesses to help with employment, exporting, research & development and other specific areas of business improvement.
Invest NI has a dedicated support team in place to deal with business enquiries. The
telephone number is 0800 181 4422. Alternatively I would encourage your constituents to contact Invest NI’s regional office in Londonderry (telephone 028 7126 7257) to discuss the range of support currently available.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035356%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204953","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204953"}},{"id":"204952","reference":"AQW 35355/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-02","answerBy":"2014-09-17","answered":"2014-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure","departmentId":"77","minister":"Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure","question":"To ask the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure to detail the loans advanced by her Department through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.","answerText":"My Department has issued no loans through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry since April 2013.\n\nMy Department, however, continues to review opportunities to participate in the Scheme.","answerHtml":"My Department has issued no loans through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry since April 2013.
My Department, however, continues to review opportunities to participate in the Scheme.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035355%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204952","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204952"}},{"id":"204845","reference":"AQW 35269/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-01","answerBy":"2014-09-16","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Health","departmentId":"82","minister":"Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety","question":"To ask the Minister of Health, Social Services and Public Safety to detail the loans advanced by her Department through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.","answerText":"As part of the 2014/15 Capital Budget exercise, my Department successfully bid for £5m under Financial Transactions Capital, split equally between a scheme for Dentists and GPs, with a view to utilising this funding to support investment in premises and equipment across GP and Dental Practices.\n\nWhile development of the process for implementation of the loan scheme is progressing well, this work has not, as yet, advanced to the point when loans can actually be made.","answerHtml":"As part of the 2014/15 Capital Budget exercise, my Department successfully bid for £5m under Financial Transactions Capital, split equally between a scheme for Dentists and GPs, with a view to utilising this funding to support investment in premises and equipment across GP and Dental Practices.
While development of the process for implementation of the loan scheme is progressing well, this work has not, as yet, advanced to the point when loans can actually be made.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035269%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204845","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204845"}},{"id":"204843","reference":"AQW 35267/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-01","answerBy":"2014-09-16","answered":"2014-09-15","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for the Economy","departmentId":"79","minister":"Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment","question":"To ask the Minister of Enterprise, Trade and Investment to detail the loans advanced by her Department through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.","answerText":"No loans have been advanced to date by my Department through Financial Transactions Capital Funding.","answerHtml":"No loans have been advanced to date by my Department through Financial Transactions Capital Funding.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035267%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204843","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204843"}},{"id":"204840","reference":"AQW 35266/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-01","answerBy":"2014-09-16","answered":"2014-09-16","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to detail the loans advanced by his Department through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.","answerText":"My Department has not advanced any loans through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme either in Northern Ireland or in East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.\n\nHowever the Executive agreed to provide £35.0m of Financial Transactions Capital loan funding to the University of Ulster to assist in financing their Greater Belfast Development scheme. The loan was processed through the Strategic Investment Board on behalf of OFMdFM. My Department was involved in the negotiations for this to take place.","answerHtml":"My Department has not advanced any loans through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme either in Northern Ireland or in East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.
However the Executive agreed to provide £35.0m of Financial Transactions Capital loan funding to the University of Ulster to assist in financing their Greater Belfast Development scheme. The loan was processed through the Strategic Investment Board on behalf of OFMdFM. My Department was involved in the negotiations for this to take place.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035266%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204840","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204840"}},{"id":"204839","reference":"AQW 35265/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-01","answerBy":"2014-09-16","answered":"2014-09-23","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Communities","departmentId":"85","minister":"Minister for Social Development","question":"To ask the Minister for Social Development to detail the loans advanced by his Department through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.","answerText":"The following loans have been advanced by DSD’s Housing Division through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in Northern Ireland since 1 April 2013:\n\nUK Get Britain Building initiative\tPilot rent to purchase initiative\tPilot empty homes initiative\tTOTAL\n£\n7,200,000\t5,000,000\t3,700,000\t15,900,000\n\nThe above amounts were advanced to Housing Associations. As Housing Associations may utilise funding across Northern Ireland, the Department does not hold information on the amounts used specifically in East Londonderry.","answerHtml":"The following loans have been advanced by DSD’s Housing Division through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in Northern Ireland since 1 April 2013:
| UK Get Britain Building initiative | Pilot rent to purchase initiative | Pilot empty homes initiative | TOTAL £ |
| 7,200,000 | 5,000,000 | 3,700,000 | 15,900,000 |
The above amounts were advanced to Housing Associations. As Housing Associations may utilise funding across Northern Ireland, the Department does not hold information on the amounts used specifically in East Londonderry.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035265%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204839","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204839"}},{"id":"204830","reference":"AQW 35264/11-15","type":"Written","typeCode":"AQW","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-09-01","answerBy":"2014-09-16","answered":"2014-09-10","answeredOrally":false,"priority":false,"department":"Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs","departmentId":"76","minister":"Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development","question":"To ask the Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development to detail the loans advanced by her Department through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme in (i) Northern Ireland; and (ii) East Londonderry, since 1 April 2013.","answerText":"The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has not advanced any loans through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme since 1 April 2013.","answerHtml":"The Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has not advanced any loans through the Financial Transactions Capital Scheme since 1 April 2013.
","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/writtensearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQW%2035264%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=204830","officialReport":null,"api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=204830"}},{"id":"201218","reference":"AQO 6424/11-15","type":"Oral","typeCode":"AQO","mandate":"11-15","tabled":"2014-06-12","answerBy":"2014-06-24","answered":"2014-06-24","answeredOrally":true,"priority":false,"department":"Department for Employment and Learning","departmentId":"83","minister":"Minister for Employment and Learning","question":"To ask the Minister for Employment and Learning to outline his plans to establish a veterinary school at the University of Ulster, Coleraine.","answerText":"","answerHtml":"","oralExchange":null,"onAssemblySite":true,"links":{"assembly":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/oralsearchresults.aspx?&qf=0&qfv=1&ref=AQO%206424%2F11-15","printable":"https://aims.niassembly.gov.uk/questions/printquestionsummary.aspx?docid=201218","officialReport":"https://www.niassembly.gov.uk/Assembly-Business/Official-Report/Reports-13-14/24-June-2014","api":"https://data.niassembly.gov.uk/questions.asmx/GetQuestionDetails?documentId=201218"}}]}